Distributed to homes with welcoming letterboxes in Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill, Castor Bay, Sunnynook, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay, Northcote, Birkenhead, Chatswood, Northcote Point, Birkenhead Point, Hillcrest and to businesses, shopping centres
Spring Fashions & Style
North Shore
Repco Takapuna Rocks 2024
Shane Marsh: Banking on Digital
chat with Matt Mimmack
Shoneet Chand & Matt Prentice
Quarter 3 has been a solid period for us having successfully completed several key transactions across the NorthWest market. Overall, we have sold over $85 million of property during this period and leased over 13,000 sqm of space. Highlights have been the sale of Bunnings Westgate, which was to Investore for $51million and a few off-market transactions in the Wairau Valley & West Auckland. 55 Constellation Drive is now also under contract which was our flagship listing of Q3 and featured a 2.4Ha site on Constellation Drive.
With the recent OCR cut, enquiry levels have noticeably increased, and projections around further, more consistent cuts over the next 12-18 months, have ‘sparked’ the investment market. Mortgage and Term deposit rates have since been falling which has resulted in tenanted investments offering reasonable yields, and steady rental growth to be more appealing.
We are expecting a busy end to 2024 with a number of key assets across Auckland either currently under contract or being negotiated and some exciting new listings which will be launched soon. If you have any questions, or would like to discuss your requirements, please do not hesitate to give either Shoneet or Matt a call on their details below. 15 Ride Way, Albany, Auckland
Iron deficiency silently lurks, affecting many New Zealanders, yet often goes unnoticed until symptoms become severe. This condition, characterised by low iron levels, results in insufficient red blood cell production (anaemia) and can have profound consequences on an individual's health and wellbeing.
To better understand this condition, we have to look at how it develops. Simply put, it can be thought of as either insufficient iron supply through reduced intake or absorption, or increased demand through blood loss and iron consumption. It can be the first sign of a serious condition.
The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia extend well beyond mere fatigue and weakness and can include:
• Impaired cognitive and physical performance
• Compromised immune function
• Tongue pain
• Abnormalities in hair and nail growth
• Pale complexion
It can be easily detected through a community blood test (complete blood count and iron studies) arranged by your family doctor. Once detected however, a cause needs to be established. Causes of iron deficiency with or without anaemia include:
• Reduced dietary intake
• Reduced absorption including coeliac disease and other inflammatory conditions of the small bowel
• Heavy menstrual blood loss
• Gastrointestinal blood loss including malignancy (cancer)
While iron deficiency can be treated with dietary modification, oral supplementation or infusions, we strongly recommend investigations for all cases of iron deficiency in men and post-menopausal women. In pre-menopausal women, a thorough history, examination and discussion is required to determine if investigations are required.
The most common investigations you require include gastroscopy (a flexible camera assessment of the stomach and first part of the small bowel) and colonoscopy (a flexible camera assessment of the large bowel or colon).
At Waitemata Endoscopy, taking a proactive approach to your health is easy. If you or your family doctor are concerned about iron deficiency, with or without anaemia, we accept GP, specialist and self-referrals via our website. Our experienced team will put you at ease when it comes to your endoscopy. Take a virtual tour of the patient journey and our clinic for an insight of what to expect at waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/locations
Dr Sam Seleq, Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist, MBChB 2014, FRACP 2021
To meet the team at Waitemata Endoscopy and explore the clinic video tours, please visit waitemataendoscopy.co.nz
Waitemata Endoscopy is delighted to share that we are further increasing capacity to offer greater access to experienced Specialists to provide you with excellence in endoscopy care.
Appointments are available within 7 working days for most standard Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy 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
ANDREW DORREEN
Lakeside
SOLD PRIOR TO DEADLINE
Positioned in the highly sought-after Manurere Avenue, this address is extremely tightly held, offering a northwest-facing aspect overlooking Lake Pupuke as well as a superb location within a very short walk of central Takapuna and the beach. This timeless design has a solid brick and cedar exterior with contemporary modern interiors, superb outdoor living and elevated lake views. The home offers large-scale open-plan living, combining kitchen, dining and informal living. It has a seamless outdoor flow to the private sheltered rear deck perfect for alfresco entertaining and relaxation.
A separate but connected formal living space with a gas fire adjoins this main living area and can be closed off with cavity sliders if required.
Accommodation-wise, there are four double bedrooms, including a fantastic master with ensuite, walk-in robe and access to a sun deck with
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licenced under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
a lovely outlook. Three bedrooms offer lake views and the fourth has good separation ideal for guests. A main bathroom services these bedrooms plus there is a dedicated powder room and a separate toilet in the garage.
A generous office on the ground floor is the perfect work-from-home space and this has a separate storage room behind for files or suitcases and the like. The double garage with internal access has a generous racking system and plenty of room for extra storage or a workshop.
Properties of this quality and specifically in this sought-after location are rarely available.
Do not miss this outstanding opportunity to purchase this exceptional lakeside home. Our vendors are downsizing and encourage all serious offers to be put forward on or before the deadline date.
This stunning family home, only just completed in 2023, offers fantastic panoramic sea views from this prime elevated location in Murrays Bay. Situated on a level full site of 812m2 is a large home of 385m2, ideal for teenage families looking for space, separation and practical liveability. Each level of the home has been cleverly designed to capture the spectacular views on offer.
The ground floor features a large games room or second living and flows to an outdoor decking area, heated swimming pool and flat astro turf area for ball sports. Off the games room are two double bedrooms and a shared bathroom, making this level of home the perfect teenage set-up! The upper level offers a large open plan living, dining and kitchen area, with an extra high stud throughout to take advantage of impressive views from this level. The kitchen features a large island bench, a separate scullery and built-in bar cabinetry. A section of the main living area can also be closed off to create a dramatic media room. This entire space flows to a large entertaining deck with a built-in spa pool and views beyond. A staircase connects this deck with the living below. The living area has a wood-burning fire, as well as ducted air conditioning in the living and master bedroom. The remaining bedrooms and office have individual
heat pumps for year-round comfort.
The master suite is a luxurious space large enough for a sitting area, lavish ensuite and walk-in robe. This leads to a large office, which has its own separate entrance making it an enviable work-from-home solution. It also has a separate storage space and a built-in kitchenette. Alternatively, if you needed a fifth bedroom this space would be perfect.
There is a further guest suite, with an ensuite and extra-large double garage approximately 10m x 6.4m with excellent built-in storage, polished concrete flooring and a workshop area.
In addition, there is a parking pad suitable for a large camper or boat and plenty of extra off-street parking for multiple vehicles, all secured behind electronic security gates.
Zoned for top local schools including Rangitoto College, this is essential viewing for teenage families or those looking to accommodate multigenerational families.
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.
A trashy issue!
I normally would give you a positive rah-rah about the issue to start my editorial. But this issue is a load of trash. Or I should say this issue features a load of trash that is filling up our oceans. We are supporting our friends at Sustainable Coastlines to encourage Shore people to ‘catch their trash’ before it gets to our waterways.
Our cover this month features this innovative Sustainable Coastlines initiative to raise awareness about the litter causing harm to the beaches that are so important to our lifestyles on the Shore. The creative, developed for Sustainable Coastlines by creative agency Augusto, is very clever. Learn all about the Trash Species of Aotearoa New Zealand on our cover feature. Our team at Channel Mag and Benefitz are getting in behind it.
This month Christine Young has done an interesting feature on Shane Marsh of Devonport. Shane is the co-founder of ‘dosh’, New Zealand’s first digital wallet. We love business success and this three-year-old postpandemic start-up looks to be challenging the market and has already won a Canstar award. You’ll enjoy Christine’s profile and interview.
Another feature in this issue is the best of
Publisher/Advertising
retirement living. We have some great options north of the Harbour Bridge with some of the best highlighted in this edition. Is there a better place in New Zealand to retire than the North Shore? We think not.
A popular feature of the magazine ever since its inception is our Out and About pages, which highlight charity and business events that have been held on the North Shore. The Channel Mag crew had a busy month, enjoying all four events highlighted in this issue. The Highbury House fundraiser generously sponsored by Ray White at the Bridgeway cinema, the annual Big Buddy Lunch at Fantail & Turtle, the inaugural North Harbour Club Business Crawl and lunching with Sir Wayne Smith and Ric Salizzo at North Harbour Stadium with Lexus of North Shore. We love attending, supporting and highlighting these community events.
Once again there’s something for everyone in this monthly Channel Mag. It’s not trash at all, just good positive stuff about the sunny North Shore. Enjoy, and have a great month.
Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz
CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.
Aidan Bennett, Kim McIntosh, Crystal Sharp, Klaudia Wal, Liz Cannon
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Highbury House fundraiser for early learning centre
The Bridgeway Cinema was the location for Highbury House to hold another well-attended event and raise money for a new outdoor play area for the House's early learning centre. Guests enjoyed New Zealand's newest local release, 'We Were Dangerous', and were also treated to a thrilling live auction, numerous spot prizes and a special Q & A session with the film’s director Josephine Stewart-Te Whiu. The event was generously sponsored by David Millington and Hannah Petherbridge from Ray White.
We are currently seeing increased activity from buyers looking for their next property move now Spring and sunshine is here
If you are considering selling in Spring or Summer ‘24/’25 please contact me today for a confidential no obligation chat
Laurel Nuysink, Dole Ledesma and Joanne Cass Gaye Greenwood, Peter and Shari Stapleton, Pete Austin
Harmony and Kim Weston, Marlene Walters, Frances Turrall Gabby Lewthwaite, Natalia and Kati Norwood
Sandra Chang, Erica Hannam and Richard Hills
Virginia Harper-Buff and Lottie Simpson Liz and Ali Goddard
Katrina King, Ruth Honoré and Claire Leblond
Camryn Withers, Kelly Wynn and Taylor Withers Andrew and Alison Weston, Jane Henderson
Sam Greenwood, Patrick Stevens and Tony Sissons
David Millington, Hannah Petherbridge and Michele Greenwood
Big Buddy Charity Lunch at Fantail & Turtle
The Benefitz and Channel Mag team love attending the Big Buddy Charity Lunches held at Fantail & Turtle, Smales Farm. The 2024 event was held on Wednesday 4 September. Attendees enjoyed a shared four course meal paired with boutique wines and local brews. The guest speaker was Shaun Quincey, more recently a hugely successful business person, but famous for rowing the Tasman from Australia to New Zealand back in 2010. Shaun talked about his 54-day escapade, and his father Colin, who completed the journey in the reverse direction in 63 days in 1977. It was is very entertaining speech. A charity auction was a key ingredient of the day, raising funds for the wonderful Big Buddy organisation which is chaired by Travis Field, the owner of Fantail & Turtle.
Shaun Quincey
Angela Evans and Natalie Butler
Ben Lapworth and Cam Burrows
Simon Metcalfe, Dan Dalton, Duane Dalton and Paul Hancox
Willy and Rick Johnston with Grant Fox
Steve Bennett and Blair Duncan
THE NEW
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North Harbour’s
Celebrating 30 years
GRANTS FROM $3,000 TO $30,000 THE ARTS | INNOVATION (SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY) | MUSIC EDUCATION | SPORT | SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY
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.
Inaugural North Harbour Club 'Business Crawl'
North Harbour Club members and guests ventured over the Harbour Bridge on the evening of Thursday 12 September for the club’s inaugural ‘Business Crawl’ event, visiting citybased club sponsors BridgeWest Group and Alvarium – both with offices looking out over the harbour and the Shore. First stop was BridgeWest in Commerce Street, where attendees mixed and mingled and were treated to a welcome in te reo, and a presentation about their business by Saum Vahdat, head of BridgeWest Ventures. Next it was on to Alvarium, to offices located near the top of the PWC building. Andrew Williams, chair of Alvarium was there to welcome all. John Berry, club member and the co-founder of Alvarium business Pathfinder Asset Management also presented on his focus on ethical investing. A great evening was had by all, with club vice president Murray Lockwood thanking the hosts for their hospitality at each venue.
Sir Wayne Smith and Ric Salizzo for Lunch
Over 370 people attended the North Harbour Club Lexus of North Shore Long Lunch at North Harbour Stadium on Thursday 19 September. The hugely entertaining lunch featured rugby legend Sir Wayne Smith and media man Ric Salizzo of Sports Café who were interviewed during the lunch by MC Jim Kayes. It was a fantastic event with all proceeds going towards rewarding young people of the region through the annual AIMES Awards.
Harbour Club Events
Andrew Williams, Murray Lockwood, John Berry
Blake Douglas, Dan Ellensohn, Emily McIsaac, Murray Lockwood
Murray Lockwood, Rees Ward Rhys Lloyd, Leigha Johnson, Steven Pearson
Kevin McLean, Sarah Tong, Saum Vahdat
Stephanie Mitchell, Lindsley Toh, Kate Caldwell, James Doyle
Sharon Boyd, Andy Ruzich, Sarah Mitchell, Nick Farrelly
Stephanie Mitchell, Emily McIsaac,
Ric Salizzo, Sir Wayne Smith, Jim Kayes
Mike Atkinson, Sir Wayne Smith
Mark Jago, Ben Bayly, Erin Marmont, Jim Kayes, Sir Wayne Smith, Bob Jago, Ric Salizzo, Mike Atkinson, Gary Monk
Attendees group photo at BridgeWest office
Andrew Williams addressing attendees at Alvarium
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
Five lemons, four ladies, three barn animals:
A delicious mix of theatre treats!
There’s no shortage of good vibes and entertainment this October at The PumpHouse Theatre! Whether you’re looking for a good laugh, something fun for the family, or a play that makes you think, there’s a show with your name on it. Here’s a little preview of what’s taking the stage at our gorgeous heritage theatre.
Tim Bray Theatre Company presents Mrs Wishy-Washy (21 September - 12 October)
The iconic Mrs Wishy-Washy is coming to life! Get ready for a farmyard adventure as Cow, Duck, and Pig embrace the glorious mess of “lovely mud” while poor Mrs Wishy-Washy tries her best to clean them up for the Big Farm Fair. The young at heart will delight in this warm, funny adventure full of mischief and laugh-out-loud moments.
Imagine only being able to speak 140 words a day. That’s the world Oliver and Bernadette are navigating in 'Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons'. This intriguing play explores how we communicate when words are limited, and what’s left unsaid becomes just as powerful. It’s a quirky, thought-provoking look at language, activism, and, of course, lemons. Don’t miss the Tāmaki Makaurau premiere of this award-winning sensation that’s captured hearts from Edinburgh to London and beyond.
Need a good laugh? Playwright James Carrick’s 'Call Girls' delivers in spades! When the residents of Beach Haven Rest Home decide to take on the powers that be, they get creative – by setting up a chat line! With alter egos, new careers, and plenty of hijinks, this hilarious comedy is full of characters you’ll feel like you’ve known for years. It’s got laughs, heart, and a story that’ll leave you cheering. Don’t miss this one!
Ending the month are some spooky treats with 'Matilda: Halloween Edition' and a family-friendly magic show from Andre Vegas, 'Trick ‘n’ Treats'. The PumpHouse is the place to be this spring - see you there!
Mauri ora, James Bell
BOOKINGS: 09 489 8360 or pumphouse.co.nz
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
DEPOT Te Whare Toi, Devonport
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 we are hosting a botanical weaving workshop with Karen Rubado, on 7 November, 5-7pm.
This workshop is designed to introduce participants to frame weaving with dried flowers and leaves. With some basic tapestry weaving techniques, you’ll be on your way to creating your own botanical textile masterpiece. We’ll be using natural yarn (wool or cotton) to create the tapestry base (warp) and will then employ a tabby weave for the flowers and leaves. Frame looms, wool and flowers will be provided and you’ll be able to take your weaving home with you.
Tickets are $25 and cover all materials and refreshments courtesy of Toi Toi Wines. Spaces are limited so head to depot.org.nz to secure your spot!
Depot Artspace
- Also My Hometown
Also My Hometown: A 30-Year Retrospective of Artwork by Onlie Ong is a comprehensive exhibition of the painting and ceramic practice of artist Onlie Ong. Beginning in Taiwan, where he studied graphic design, Ong has had a long and varied career. Upon moving to Aotearoa in 1991, he began practising ceramic sculpture, with which he had a successful career and exhibited throughout Australasia. In 2008 he suffered a wrist injury that prevented him from making ceramics. Instead of ending his art career, he shifted his practice to pursue painting and he now creates a new series every year. Now in his late seventies, Ong continues to use his art to reflect his experience of migration and finding a new sense of place and home in Aotearoa. Ong balances visual themes common in Western surrealism and shan shui (a form of Chinese landscape painting) while capturing the unmistakable scenery of Aotearoa.
This exhibition will be held at 3 Victoria Road, Devonport. Keep an eye on depot.org.nz and our socials for details about the exhibition opening.
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!
Also My Hometown: A 30 Year Retrospective of Artwork by Onlie Ong
The lines are ringing red hot for 'Call Girls'!
The finishing touches are being put on Phoenix Theatre’s world premiere of 'Call Girls' as the talented cast and crew bring this world-class script to life. It is set to have PumpHouse Theatre audiences holding their sides with laughter from Thursday 17 to Saturday 26 October.
The playwright James Carrick, a North Shore local who began his theatrical career with Phoenix Theatre over 10 years ago, has won numerous Best Actor in a Leading Role awards and is now proving that his writing is every bit as good as his acting. 'Call Girls' was one of many plays put through Phoenix Theatre’s rigorous selection panel earlier this year, and was unanimously voted as the favourite. His inspiration for this rest-home comedy derives from his experiences working around Auckland's retirement villages, where many residents have their own incredible
stories to tell. “People have lived such colourful lives, and they've been only too happy to share their stories with me. I couldn’t resist bringing these characters to life on the pages of a stage play,” says James. "They are all so very funny and entirely relatable!"
While the laughs are plenty, the play’s true strength indeed lies in its relatability. Retirement is often a time when people find themselves in a state of transformation; they leave lives they’ve always known and navigate new living situations that can be unsettling and occasionally lonely. James explains further, “It was really important to create a strong character-driven comedy where people can recognise family members, friends or even themselves, and see them discover their own later-life journeys. Growing older with flair is not for the fainthearted, and that’s what I think people will take away from the play. People will be treated to a top-class, entertaining live theatre experience that has heart.”
'Call Girls' is the story of four women whose beloved rest home is at risk of being demolished by a large corporation, something they’re not going to take lying down. A talented ensemble cast brings Pauline, Ivy,
James Carrick
Kate Birch (Pauline), Ayesha Heble (Angela), Rebecca Wright (Sarah Elswick), Helen Anne Davies (Ivy), and Ami Coster (Rose)
Aidan Allen (Tim) and Allie Chrystal (Kirsty)
Kate Birch (Pauline), Helen Anne Davies (Ivy), Oliver Roberts (Philip Dinkle), Ayesha Heble (Angela) and Ami Coster (Rose)
Angela and Rose’s journey to life as they transition from being rest-home residents to successful chat-line hosts. North Shore audiences will be no strangers to the talents of locals like Kate Birch, Rebecca Wright, Aidan Allen and Alexandra Chrystal, with other equally brilliant cast members travelling from all corners of Auckland to be part of 'Call Girls'. Unusually for a world premiere, the playwright has absolutely no intention of relaxing in the audience during the 'Call Girls' season because his arm has been twisted into playing several comedic cameo roles in the production itself. Director Liz Cannon says, "There was just no one else who could play these roles better! In fact, the entire cast is truly stellar – the audience is in for such a treat!"
At a time when there is a lot of sadness and negativity in the world, 'Call Girls' promises to take audiences away from it all for a few hours. If ticket sales are anything to go by, Aucklanders are more than ready. Phoenix Theatre has been blown away by the interest in the play and
credits the support of The Pumphouse Theatre and its reputation for being the flagship for quality theatre on the North Shore. Phoenix Theatre vice president Braydon Priest reports they have been overwhelmed by the community’s interest and goodwill in helping bring the play to life. “There is no shortage of great theatre companies on the Shore and after a hiatus, we’re aware that Phoenix is back to being the new kid on the block. It’s heartening that members of other community groups have warmly welcomed us back by giving their time, whether on stage or off, in addition to assisting with everything from set and props to costumes and sponsorship.” He adds that Phoenix Theatre's mission since rising from the ashes has always been to 'champion the community' in community theatre, while delivering a professional experience for audiences to enjoy. If the last 12 months of Phoenix Theatre’s journey back to the stage are anything to go by, it’s a promise they’re delivering in spades.
The Seemore Tours season of 'Call Girls' runs from Thursday 17 to Saturday 26 October at The Pumphouse Theatre, Takapuna with tickets starting from just $24 at pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/call-girls
Duncan Preston (Councillor Leonard) and Rebecca Wright (Sarah Elswick)
Rebecca Wright (Sarah Elswick)
Bayleys to launch new flagship office in the Bays
Bayleys is preparing to launch a brand new flagship office in Browns Bay. The new Bayleys East Coast Bays ‘Super Office’ will open in December this year with a large footprint on the ground floor of new Victor building near the corner of Bute and Clyde Roads in the heart of Browns Bay. This will be a fresh new Bayleys offering, combining the expertise of nearly 30 agents in one place. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with Bayleys North Shore General Manager Jonathan de Jong to discuss the new initiative during September.
CMAG: Jonathan, this new initiative is clearly a case of Bayleys having confidence to invest in Browns Bay and the Bays as a very important market?
JDJ: It's a big flag in the ground for Bayleys. The new East Coast Bays office is a huge investment in the future of the Bays. We’re saying we really love this area and we want people to be transacting with us up here. There's a huge amount of growth in these neighbourhoods, and we very much want to be in the centre of it all. The idea is to create a more dynamic, high-quality service for both vendors and buyers. We look forward to serving both the local community and wider East Coast Bays area with a larger group of experienced real estate agents helping add value to our customers.
This looks to be a big space. How many of the Bayleys team will work out of this new Bayleys East Coast Bays Super Office? We will look to have up to 30 sales agents operating from this new larger office, supported by our inhouse administration team. We are hiring for this office, and welcome sales agents that want to grow their career with Bayleys.
Tell us about the design of the new office. We have read that the overall design and installation of new technology looks set to take the customer experience to new levels. Bayleys design and fit-out teams will construct the office over the next few months with large windows, modern accents, lots of light and high-tech fixtures – making it the real estate destination to visit on the upper North Shore. It's going to be very bright and welcoming to the public, filled with beautiful plants and great decor. The implementation of new technology will take customer experience to new heights. It's going to be a great place to come and meet your local real estate agent, because there'll be meeting rooms designed specifically for that. We're going to have more teams, more administration assistance and just greater availability for our clients.
It looks like Bayleys' timing of this new office is pretty spot on with positive signs in the market as we come into spring and summer?
Yes, with market confidence coming to life, supported by lower interest rates and seasonal demand, we think it’s a pretty good time to open the new office. We are already starting to see people becoming more serious about real estate again, because banks are obviously starting to move the right way with their interest rates. I believe that momentum is going to grow over the next six to 12 months. Then you've got this whole area that’s really grown and it's beautiful. There are bays and beaches everywhere; it’s a really cool place to live.
You have a background selling high end properties in Sydney. How does the Bays compare to in the Sydney market?
The East Coast bays of Auckland’s North Shore have many areas like Sydney, surrounded by waterfront and a huge variety of property styles and prices available including waterfront properties, existing residential, villas, apartments, and land for new builds; even lifestyle homes and sections are all available. The Bays has it all!
When you returned to New Zealand you had real success selling Long Bay property with Bayleys. Long Bay remains popular. What other developments on the Shore excite you at the moment?
Everything is expanding on the Shore, and we are excited to be a part of the expansion. Just north of Long Bay we have a development in Okura, with 27 lifestyle luxury sections. Half have already sold we still have plenty available for the discerning buyer! Lots are between $2-$6 million (lifestyle sections, some with riparian rights) and this area will command prices with finished homes between $6-$20 million. Mike Hotchin from the Bayleys team is the one to be contacted for these properties.
What do you love about living and working on the North Shore?
The variety the Shore offers, from lifestyle to waterfront and everything in between! Beautiful beaches, relaxed living; the options are endless and the people that live here are so great to work, live and socialise with. I absolutely love the North Shore and I'm proud to call it home.
For further information contact Jonathan de Jong, email: jonathan.dejong@bayleys.co.nz or phone 020 414 48777. Visit: bayleys.co.nz
Bayleys new Browns Bay office in Bute Road
Bayleys new office will be in the impressive new Victor Building in Browns Bay Jonathan de Jong
An exciting new chapter for Centro Café!
For over a year, Centro Café in Takapuna has been the heart of our community, offering a welcoming escape for anyone in need of good vibes, great coffee and delicious food. Owned and operated by passionate and dynamic duo Silva and Sasa, Centro has grown into so much more than just a café; it’s a welcoming space where connections are made, conversations flow and comfort is always on the menu. They are thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter in the Centro Café story! Starting from Friday 11 October, Centro Café will extend its opening hours till late every Friday and Saturday.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, casual dinner option, Centro is the place to be. They’ve extended the menu with exciting new dishes, perfect for those evening cravings. Picture this: after a long day, unwind with a glass of wine or a cold beer from their fully licensed selection, paired with a delicious, freshly prepared meal. Whether it’s a healthy salad, a hearty bowl of seafood chowder, or a flavourful Centro Special Burger, they’ve got something to satisfy every palate. If
you’re in the mood for something lighter, why not stop by for a bite after a beach walk? Perhaps a slice of cake with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing tea – always a good choice to wind up your evening walk! As the evenings start to draw out, Centro Café is the perfect spot for a cosy spring evening, whether it’s with friends, family or just to enjoy some well-deserved solo quiet time.
As Centro Café extends its hours ready for the lighter and warmer spring and summer evenings ahead, you’ll continue to experience the same relaxed, friendly atmosphere Centro is known for – just with a little more time to savour it! The talented chefs and kitchen staff will be crafting fresh, creative dishes and they can’t wait to share what’s new with you. Whether it’s a casual dinner with loved ones, a peaceful evening to yourself or a spontaneous stop after a beach stroll, they’ve got your Friday and Saturday evenings covered. Join the Centro Café family from Friday 11 October for dinner, drinks and a warm and welcoming space where you’ll always feel at home.
Shore ON THE Eating Out
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Devonport
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
Persian and Mediterranean cuisine.
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
Authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. cafehungviet.co.nz
Calimero
Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. Corellis
Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafe.co.nz
Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery
The best of Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. 71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz
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
DEVONPORT
Vondel
Independent owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving food to suit every diet, alongside craft beer, natural wine and small-batch spirits. We hold weekly specials, winemakers' dinners, as well as private and charity events. Sign up to our mailing list or follow our social channels to keep up to date.
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
SMALESFARM ,
Fantail & Turtle
Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce. Supreme Winner - NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz Instagram fantailandturtle
HAURAKI
Smales Farm, Takapuna
Fantail & Turtle
Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food! 09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz
Shake Out Burgers 09 489 8223. shakeout.co
Soho Thai 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com
The Grange Bar & Bistro
A favourite all-day bar and bistro. 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz
Takapuna
Alforno Italian Restaurant
34 Anzac Street. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz
Aubergine Restaurant
European and Mediterranean. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz
Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar
Italian eatery. 8 Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
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
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.
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.
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.
San Marco Trattoria & Bar 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley. 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz
Taylors on Hurstmere
Yellow Hour
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 October – 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
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
Tokyo Bay
Tokyo Bay is situated seaside, Takapuna Beach. You can dine and watch the cruise liners sail out after a day in Auckland. Open seven days a week with a casual lunch menu featuring light bites to a range of bento box-styled selections. Then from 5pm a more extensive evening menu is available, featuring modern Japanese cuisine. Bookings essential.
The Travellers’ Choice Awards 'Best of the Best Restaurants for 2024' have been announced, with Tokyo Bay Takapuna in the top ten for the fourth year running. Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
tokyobay.co.nz
facebook tokyobaytakapuna
Hops & Claret Drinkery
A premium bar with amazing tapas and cocktails. Cool and groovy with a distinctive underground vibe, Hops & Claret provides a refreshing retreat in summer and a cozy getaway in winter. Based on over 60 reviews received, Hops & Claret proudly scores 5 stars for food and 5 stars for service. Perfect for small functions or social occasions, catering for up to 40 people. Opens 3pm Wednesday-Saturday.
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
WAIRAUVALLEY
San Marco Trattoria & Bar
Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good - benvenuti! Wed-Fri 11am-Late; Sat-Sun 10am-Late. Happy hour 3-7pm.
Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz facebook Instagram @sanmarcoauckland
Hanoi Haven
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.
BROWNSBAY
21 Days Bar & Brasserie
Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas functions.
37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina brings the heat to Takapuna’s beachfront!
The North Shore has just got a little spicier with the arrival of Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina, a vibrant and lively addition to Takapuna’s beachfront. Taking over the beloved spot where Franc’s stood for a decade, Rosie’s has swept in with her signature flair, offering a new and exciting experience for locals and visitors alike.
Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina isn’t your average eatery – it’s a destination. Known for mouth-watering tacos, monster nachos, and slushy margaritas, the cantina brings more than just bold flavours. It offers an atmosphere that’s as electric as the food and drinks themselves, with a lively vibe that makes every visit feel like a celebration. Whether you’re a Takapuna local or travelling from across the city (or even further!), you’ll find Rosie’s has quickly become the go-to spot for anyone seeking a fun, relaxed, and undeniably energetic place to hang out.
Brought to you by StarSocial, New Zealand’s largest hospitality network, Rosie’s Takapuna follows the footsteps of its sister locations in Wellington, Tauranga, and Auckland’s Viaduct. This is the fourth Rosie’s to pop up across the North Island, each one bringing a fiery, fun-filled experience that’s fast becoming a hallmark of the brand.
Rosie’s isn’t just about great food and drinks – there’s a story behind it, too. The cantina is inspired by the fictional Rosie, a free
Known for mouth-watering tacos, monster nachos, and slushy margaritas, the cantina brings more than just bold flavours.
spirit who found herself on America’s West Coast and never left, drawn to the area’s laid-back charm. That adventurous, carefree energy infuses everything about Rosie’s. From the moment you step inside, you’re encouraged to kick back, let loose, and enjoy the ride. There’s no need for formalities here – just good vibes, great company, and the kind of atmosphere that feels like a party that never ends.
Open daily from 11:30am until late, Rosie’s Takapuna is ready to welcome you. So why not pop in and see what all the fuss is about? You might just find yourself staying a little longer than you planned.
Address: Main Beach, The Strand, Takapuna
Email: info@rosiestakapuna.co.nz
Phone: 09 488 0016
EVERY WEEKEND FROM 9AM - 11:45AM
Enjoy a seaside brunch that’s located right on Takapuna’s Beach Front.
Download the StarSocial Rewards app to get $1 back for every $10 spent on food & drink across StarSocial’s 50+ bars, pubs & restaurants*.
*StarSocial Rewards terms apply
By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote
“It is health that is the real wealth, and not pieces of gold and silver.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi
During last year’s election, all three Coalition parties campaigned on delivering better health outcomes for New Zealanders. Since forming a year ago, the Coalition has laid out a clear plan with targets to drive better outcomes within our healthcare system. The targets we are collectively focused on are faster cancer treatment, increased childhood immunisation, reduced emergency department waiting times and shorter wait times for assessments and treatments.
As a government, we are investing $30 billion a year in health, the highest in New Zealand’s history. However, more money alone isn’t the solution to our healthcare challenges. We are also committed to practical changes that drive better health outcomes, such as our policy announced last month to crack down on youth vaping.
The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Amendment Bill (No 2) will help combat youth vaping in our community, while allowing vapes to be used as an effective smoking cessation tool by many.
As a government, we are investing $30 billion a year in health, the highest in New Zealand’s history.
Once passed, this Bill will:
• Ban disposable vapes that appeal to young people.
• Impose greater fines for anyone selling vapes to persons under 18.
• Impose visibility restrictions on vaping products in retail spaces, keeping them out of sight of youth.
• Include proximity limits on vape sales near early childhood centres.
Youth vaping is sadly on the rise, with latest estimates suggesting 15 per cent of all 15–17-year-olds vaping daily. The last government was slow to regulate and enforce the rules around vaping. Our government will not make that same mistake. Along with the changes announced above, we will also be employing 16 new dedicated smokefree enforcement officers by December to ensure compliance and effectiveness with the new law.
Every dollar invested in health is important, but true change in New Zealand’s healthcare system will be evident through enhanced care and better health outcomes. Setting targets, effective management, and practical policies all contribute to these improvements.
If there’s anything my office can help you with, do get in touch. See you in our community sometime soon!
Dan Bidois – MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz
Shore Junction recognises the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs as they take their first steps into the business world. That's why since opening we have had an established Incubator Space programme, offering free office space for a startup youth business each year. This initiative provides critical support to these budding ventures, helping them navigate the initial hurdles and propel them towards success.
Digital Growth is the well-deserved recipient of Shore Junction's 2024 Incubator Space programme. This young company is brimming with enthusiasm and a clear vision to empower small and medium-sized businesses by building websites at no upfront cost. Its innovative approach removes a significant barrier for these businesses, allowing them to establish a strong online presence without the initial financial burden.
In their own words, Digital Growth describes the transformative impact of Shore Junction's Incubator Space: “Shore Junction has been an absolute game-changer for us. It’s not just an office space; it’s where we’ve found the support, inspiration, and opportunities to really push our business forward.” This quote highlights the multifaceted nature of this incubator. It goes beyond simply providing a physical workspace; it fosters a supportive environment that breeds creativity, collaboration, and access to valuable resources.
Digital Growth's journey serves as a testament to the effectiveness of Shore Junction's Incubator Space programme. What began as a promising concept has blossomed into a thriving business thanks to the support the team has received. Their story is an inspiration to aspiring young entrepreneurs, demonstrating the power of dedicated mentorship and a nurturing community.
To learn more about Digital Growth and its innovative approach to web design, visit the website at www.digitalgrowth.co.nz. By supporting initiatives like the Incubator Space programme, Shore Junction is playing a vital role in nurturing the next generation of business leaders and shaping the digital landscape of New Zealand.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
Experience a Europe that blends the timeless charm of historic cities with the thrill of new adventures.
Whether you're seeking cultural treasures, scenic escapes, or culinary delights, Europe offers something for every traveller. Your Perfect European Adventure Awaits!
Scenic Retreats: Relax in the picturesque countryside of Tuscany, the serene beauty of the Swiss Alps, or the tranquil beaches of the Mediterranean
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What we offer:
Personalised Itineraries: Tailor-made travel plans that reflect your style and interests.
Exclusive Access: VIP experiences, private tours, and special events that you won't find anywhere else
Seamless Planning: We manage everything from flights and accommodations to activities and dining, so you can enjoy a stress-free adventure
Don't wait to make your European dreams a reality. Contact our award-winning team now to start planning your unforgettable 2025 adventure The journey of a lifetime is just a call or click away!
Phone: 09-257 0883 Email: takapuna@travel
co nz
The biggest & best burger bars in Takapuna
A burger a day will keep the hangry away and we’ve got you covered with enough suggestions to keep chowing down for at least a week.
The Elephant Wrestler
How many Fat Daddy burgers can you slam in 90 minutes? That’s right, every Saturday bottomless Fat Daddy burgers are available at the Elephant Wrestler. You can even wash it down with bottomless Export Gold or Prosecco. Check the Elephant Wrestler website for more
Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina
How about a burg from the hottest new spot in Takapuna, Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina? With four smashing options, each burger is served in a milk bun and comes with shoestring fries, ketchup and aioli. Plant-eaters are catered for with a hemp & chipotle burger served on a vegan brioche.
Regatta Bar & Eatery
If you’re in the mood for a juicy Wagyu beef burger, head to Regatta Bar & Eatery. That’s Wagyu with a capital W: the genuine article. This burger’s flavours are classic but oomphed up to a new level of luxe.. Bacon jam? Say no more.
Centro Cafe
What would make crispy, crunchy chicken better? Wrap it in a burger. That’s exactly what Centro has done, plus added all the favourite burger fillings you love. If you’re dining with people who aren’t on a burger hunt, there are plenty of menu options for them to choose from.
Catch 21
Lobster burger. You read that right. Broaden your burger horizons, and check out Catch 21’s lobster open burger. You can even request a second lobster tail, if you feel like one won’t quite cut the, er, spiced truffled hollandaise.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
Burger Burger
Say it twice like you really mean it. Keen to pick up some takeaways on your way down to the beach? Burger Burger proudly sources local ingredients to recreate some classic burger flavour combos. If you’re feeling a little virtuous, part of the menu is dedicated to the green stuff.
My Fried Chicken
K-pop, K-drama, K-fried-chicken! For burgers with tasty Korean flair, make a bee line for My Fried Chicken. This Korean-centric menu has three burger options: fried chicken of course, bulgogi beef, and prawn.
Florrie McGreal’s
Florrie’s is rocking a massive six-burger menu on top of all their pub classics. The top hog, according to us, is the pulled pork cheeseburger. Pure melty, tangy, BBQ pork goodness on a bun.
Honey Cafe
Looking for a café with a lovely ambience and feel while chowing down? Make a beeline for Honey Cafe and satisfy your burger craving with the buttermilk fried chicken burger.
Jam Organic Cafe
For a burger that uses free-range meat and eggs, look no further than Jam. The team at Jam are dedicated to sustainability, quality and community while producing some flavourful food. Make sure you order a cup of their award-winning coffee while you’re there.
If you’re looking to try the best of Takapuna…
Taste of Takapuna 2024 is here! This month-long North Shore foodie event is your chance to explore all that Takapuna’s hospitality scene has to offer.
We’ll also be running the People’s Choice competition where you get to vote on your favourite eating and drinking spots, and go in the draw to win Takapuna hospitality vouchers. Follow the QR codes on the opposite page, or visit: ilovetakapuna for more info!
SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
Repco Takapuna Rocks Classic Car Show is on Saturday 9 November!
Matt Turnwald is the busy organiser and promoter of Repco Takapuna Rocks, the popular classic car event that has made the Takapuna beach front come alive with car enthusiasts for one Saturday in November over the past six years. It’s on again in 2024, on Saturday 9 November, at the Strand, by the beach in central Takapuna. Repco Takapuna Rocks 2024 is a community fundraising event in the support of Yes Disability for Shore Junction, the Shore’s Youth Innovation Hub. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with Matt for a chat about what they have lined up for Repco Takapuna Rocks in 2024.
CMAG: You guys must be thrilled with how successful this event has been over many years despite the hiccups of Covid and the economy? Going by the line-up of support you have from sponsors and others it is obviously valued.
MT: Yes, we are very happy to be able to return to the shores of Takapuna with Repco Takapuna Rocks again in 2024. We feel that it’s one thing that adds a great deal to the local community and it’s needed more than ever in 2024. The support we’ve had from our amazing sponsors has been pretty incredible. We can’t thank all involved enough for the continued support to ensure the events success.
I understand the show has become a bit of a destination event bringing people from far and wide?
We have certainly well and truly put this event on the New Zealand car show scene and how can it not be successful with the fantastic location! Takapuna Beach is a great venue to draw people from wide and far to enjoy the cars, fun and entertainment, and we are thrilled to be supporting such a great cause as our local youth innovation hub, Shore Junction.
Why did you decide to start the show back in 2018?
Having been a part of a great South Island show before moving north to be closer to family, I always had a desire to start another show that could also help the local community. With the help of my amazing mother Takapuna Rocks was born. This is a project that we love doing together and best of all we are giving back to the community.
How many vehicles will you have involved in this 2024 event and what should we look out for in the line-up of vehicles on show?
This year‘s registrations are attracting a lot of cars that haven’t attended Repco Takapuna Rocks in past years so the quality is going to be amazing as we showcase these for the first time. We have Trev Halsted in his unreal Studebaker coming for the first time. This year we will have a couple of trucks attending and also we have Charlie Bailey and his amazing Smokey and the Bandit Tribute Kenworth, which is definitely not to be missed. NZ Vicla’s will be turning up with their stunning motorbikes and lots more.
Matt Turnwald
Takapuna is such a great venue isn’t it and you must be thrilled with the support from locals?
Takapuna is a world class venue for any event. The support from the Takapuna Beach Business Association and ‘Taka’ locals in general is just incredible. The event would not be possible without that support. The Strand will be closed to traffic and pedestrian-only for the day so that it allows us to line the streets with amazing cars, trucks, bikes, live music and rock 'n' roll dancing.
Tell us about the vintage market?
Our vintage markets are always set down in Gould Reserve on the Takapuna Beach shoreline which is just a perfect setting for the markets. How can you beat walking through a market whilst the sea is quietly lapping in the background and everyone is having fun?
What do you have lined-up in terms of live music this year?
Once again this year we have the amazing Chet O’Connell & The Rock n Roll Riot band returning to get the right mood set and the dancers dancing as they have in past years. This year we have looked hard for another entertaining group and have found an incredible young band that is made up of brothers and sisters called Rumpus Machine. When you hear these guys they will blow you away with their talent and skill.
Who can enter the Pin-up Pageant?
The crowning of Miss Takapuna Rocks has become a very important event in the pin-up scene here in New Zealand and we have girls registered already from as far as Whangarei in the north and Christchurch in the south. Such a great part of our show that gets a huge amount of interest from both young and old.
Why should attendees bring the whole family to Repco Takapuna Rocks in 2024?
Repco Takapuna Rocks was born as a family project for families to enjoy. There is NO entry fee for the public. However we will have Shore Junction volunteers walking around with buckets for donations should you feel like donating to such a worthy cause. We will even have a face painting tent for the kids and the incredible (and recently enhanced) Takapuna playground is right in the middle of our event so makes for another great attraction. There are also the amazing local eateries within our show area to enjoy food and a possible cheeky drink.
Complete the following… While I love putting Repco Takapuna Rocks together every year, after the show I love to…
To put on an event like this takes a lot of planning all year round and promotion at as many events that we can make it to. So packing my three kids in the car and heading off to car shows whenever we can is such a great fun way to spend our time. Living in paradise, as I call the Shore, just has so many options both with and without the family from fishing, socialising or just getting out and about.
takapunarocks.co.nz
Meet the Trash Species of Aotearoa New Zealand
A fun take on the new threats lurking in our ocean
This month the team at Channel Mag and Benefitz is getting behind this innovative Sustainable Coastlines initiative to raise awareness about the litter causing harm to the beaches that are so important to our lifestyles on the Shore.
Almost every Kiwi will recognise the iconic fish poster from takeaway shops across the country, but we are expecting some double takes with Sustainable Coastlines’ new version that also is a feature of our cover in this issue.
A collaboration between charity Sustainable Coastlines, creative agency Augusto, and renowned New Zealand wildlife artist Erin Forsyth, Trash Species of Aotearoa New Zealand aims to get people thinking about the types of creatures they really want lurking next to them when they take a dip in the ocean.
The poster (and cover) reveals 21 ‘trash species’ through watercolour illustrations, such as the Quarter Flounder and the Snapperloc Bag, calling out some of the most common litter found on our coastlines. The species are informed by real data collected from our coastlines as part of Litter Intelligence, the national litter monitoring programme run by Sustainable Coastlines.
Sustainable Coastlines’ communications manager, Helen Adams-Blackburn, notes how lucky we are to be surrounded by a diverse and beautiful coastline in New Zealand, saying, “It’s a big part of our culture, and protecting our amazing marine species is
important to a lot of us. This campaign helps to highlight the threat of totally unwanted ‘species’ that find their way to our ocean through littering, open bins, and down stormwater drains. It draws the connection between items we might use on a daily basis and the beaches and wildlife we hope to protect.”
“The message is pretty simple: catch your trash before it fills our oceans, whether that’s changing buying habits or making sure something is disposed of properly,” she says.
The individual species, and tips on how to stop them, will be profiled on the Sustainable Coastlines social media accounts during October. There will also be an opportunity
for people to submit their own trash species discoveries on the charity’s social media pages — even better if you have a fish pun in mind.
Adam Thompson, executive creative director at Augusto, says, “I think most of us have heard about, and seen, the litter problem in this country, but it wasn’t until we saw the very humbling data that we realised how preventable things were. By showing the visible impact through a much loved piece of Kiwiana, we will hopefully motivate people to change how they treat their trash.”
The original artworks will be on display throughout October at Sustainable Coastlines’ education and events space, before being auctioned off to raise money for the charity. Thanks to Benefitz for support with printing, fans of the soon-to-be iconic poster will also be able to get their hands on one, with details to be announced on Sustainable Coastlines website.
For more information and to keep up to date:- Follow the campaign and share your own trash species on Instagram and Facebook by following @sustainablecoastlines sustainablecoastlines.org
See the exhibition at The Flagship, at 55 Madden Street, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland City.
Explore the data that informs the campaign at insights.litterintelligence.org
The teams at Harbour Hospice’s 17 hospice shops encourage you to take up the challenge.
“By buying preloved you’re not only caring for the environment – reducing waste and re-using or recycling household items and clothing,” says Harbour Hospice Retail Services Manager Maria Baird. “When you shop in hospice shops you’re also giving back to your community. Every dollar spent in our shops goes directly towards funding hospice patient and family care.”
One person who understands that feeling of giving back is keen thrifter Carolyn*. She estimates that 75 per cent of the items in her home are pre-loved. “From our beds to our living room furniture to the crockery in our kitchen cupboards to the bric-a-brac I’ve collected to make the house a home,” she says. “And many of our clothes!”
Carolyn says she loves the thrill of a good find. “And knowing that my spending is supporting an integral community service, and local patients and families,” she adds.
Her very first second-hand buy was a double bed with an oak head and end board. “That was when I was 18 and about to move into my first flat. My teenage son sleeps in it now. It does have a new mattress, though!” she admits.
The thrifting really ramped up after she bought her first home on her own. “Money was tighter, and I wanted to make my home beautiful but on a budget.”
She found second-hand shopping for her home so fulfilling she began to prefer it to buying new. “Every single piece I’ve brought home has its own little story behind it, its own history or whakapapa. And shopping second-hand has allowed me to make my house uniquely me. My three kids, in their teens and 20s, are into it too. Second-hand shopping has become second nature in our family!”
Harbour Hospice cares for one in three people who are dying in the community and provides this compassionate, specialist care, free of charge. But it relies on the support of its community to be able to continue to provide that care, free. Support Harbour Hospice today and Buy Nothing New this October!
*Not her real name
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Ready to upsize your enterprise?
Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna have a 'No Limits' approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems.
It has been a challenging year, particularly for small business owners. Pack & Send Takapuna want to help you get to the next level, so you are raring to go for the upcoming busy season!
Ready to capitalise on the pre-Christmas hullaballoo? Pack & Send offers an all-in-one, bespoke online business shipping service to save you time, trouble and money – effortless order processing, storage pick, pack, stock transfers, and dispatch plus a dedicated account angel.
… the staff at Pack & Send are able to tailor personalised solutions for each individual customer’s requirements.
If you have approached the large logistics companies and you are not quite ready for the minimum spend threshold, not to mention the long list of itemised charges you’ll incur, or you’re not in a position to hire more staff then you will love Pack & Send ’s new 3PL (third party logistics) package!
You focus on your sales and marketing, and they will sort your shipping!
Your local Pack & Send has the great advantage of alliances with a wide range of the best courier companies across New Zealand and the world. Because they send so much freight, they are able to negotiate great rates – and pass on the savings to their customers. This enables them to offer an unrivalled range of freight services and transport solutions and enhance them with their experience to deliver to their customers a great deal of added value.
With their famous ‘No Limits’ philosophy, the staff at Pack & Send are able to tailor personalised solutions for each individual customer’s requirements. Contact Jeremy, Pack & Send's dedicated logistics expert, for some helpful tips and advice on optimising your small business shipping leading into the busy season.
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.
Pack & Send Takapuna
takapuna@packsend.co.nz www.packsend.co.nz
486 3355
Secluded beach , large luxury homes and stunning views .
If you live here.
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
#supportlocal the
RESENE COLORSHOP
Protect exterior timber with the natural look of Resene Furniture and Decking Oil. Simply clean the timber with Resene Timber and Deck Wash and apply Resene Furniture and Decking Oil, then sit back and enjoy the compliments from your guests. Available from Resene ColorShops, resene.com/colorshops. 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
LOVISA - GLENFIELD MALL
Make a stylish statement with these striking earrings crafted from gold-toned metal and teardrop-shaped blue crystals. Sure to turn heads with their gorgeous design. Check out the full range at their Glenfield Mall store, conveniently located on Level 3 by the Food Court. Shop 324B, Level 3, Glenfield Mall lovisa.com, 09 801 3017 Instagram: lovisajewellery facebook: lovisajewellery
CRAVEHOME
Summer never looked so good – our complete range of Sunnylife beach and pool accessories will ensure you and your family of all ages enjoy endless fun in the sun!! The world’s leading lifestyle brand available at cravehome in Birkenhead.
Celebrate the festive season with our Advent Calendar Jigsaw Puzzle ‘A Very Kiwi Christmas’! Perfect for family fun & counting down the days to Christmas.
A great pre-Christmas gift. $59.90 incl GST each – pre-order now! Arriving mid-October.
Two looks, one dress. Discover Orientique's reversible dress at Yarntons.
18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011
69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 yarntons.co.nz
COSI FAN TUTTE
One Season's Jazz and Mia dresses are both Cosi favourites - this summer in the stunning 'Cypress Navy' print. Present this ad to receive 10% off clothing purchases. Valid to 31 October.
73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz Instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
PAINTED BIRD
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' fashionuse CH24 for a treat!
Celebrate the season of renewal with bed linen inspired by nature and crafted from sustainable organic cotton. Featuring a hand-painted design of leafy branches in olive green tones on crisp white, Evergreen bedding is designed for a calm, relaxing feel. 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
FLORIENNE
Another gorgeous bouquet on it’s way… could be you!
Step into the new Farmers at Shore City shopping centre
Revamped to enhance your shopping
experience
Farmers at Shore City have recently completed a significant refurbishment across both level one and level two, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Level one now features an upgraded nursery, infant section and kids' fashion areas, as well as refreshed men's fashion, tableware, kitchenware, appliances, bed and bath sections. These updates create a more convenient and enjoyable shopping environment with a modern layout and a centralised till area on both levels.
On level two, the revitalisation continues with a fresh look in the women’s and beauty departments. The updates bring a modern, inviting atmosphere that makes browsing for clothing, accessories and beauty products more enjoyable. Whether you’re exploring new fashion trends or searching for the perfect beauty item, the refurbished space makes your shopping experience more convenient and pleasurable.
Overall, the comprehensive upgrades across both levels ensure that Farmers at Shore City remains a top destination for shoppers looking for quality, variety and a welcoming environment.
Don’t miss out! Farmers Shore City has exclusive 'Door Buster Deals' from 17 –23 October come and grab the best offers while they last!
Dive into summer at Mikko Shoes
Sophisticated, celebratory and playful all at once, Mikko Shoes has something to suit all tastes as the weather warms up. Known for their ability to balance the latest sophisticated trends with quality craftsmanship and timeless design, Mikko's new spring/summer 2024 offering does not disappoint.
In honour of the seasonal shift, we spoke with Michaela Longstaff, founder of Mikko Shoes and Mikko Men’s, to learn about what’s in store for S/S24.
Channel Mag: Michaela, can you tell us how would you describe this season’s colour inspiration at Mikko?
Michaela Longstaff: This season is all about bold colour stories. We are particularly drawn to ‘Spring Carnival’ showcasing floral pinks, azure blues and zesty citrus shades inspired by summer’s bounty. Each of these head-turning tones works beautifully when paired with neutral outfits, for a fun yet elevated pop of bright. In contrast, ‘Ancestral Refuge’ takes last year’s ‘quiet luxury’ trend up a notch, featuring low-key yet lush shades of sand, khaki and rich caramel. And if you love your warm-weather whites, look to the ‘Sleek Subversion’ collection of limestone, chalk, ivory and true bright white to add fresh, refined polish to any outfit.
And what are this season’s must-wear silhouettes?
In silhouettes, the styles are also diverse. ‘Lady Like Elegance’ houses well-balanced heels and feminine details for both special events and elegant, everyday wear. With a variety of toe shapes,
you can take your pick from pointed, rounded or squared. If you’re looking for chic open-toed options, the effortless ‘Strappy Sandals’ trend features woven, crossed and asymmetrical designs, perfect for pairing with your favourite linen pieces and floaty dresses.
Are there any new brands introduced this season?
Yes, we celebrate the arrival of two inspired Spanish brands, both exclusive to Mikko in New Zealand. Pedro Miralles brings a feminine, fashion-forward offering, perfect for events and elevated day wear. And Callaghan offers a dedication to quality, with timeless styles to love season after season.
With more than a decade of experience providing beautiful quality footwear to New Zealand women (and more recently, men too!), Mikko’s highly-considered curation process means that every pair has been pre-approved, with style, true comfort and long-lasting wear in mind.
Enjoy the new season offering at your local Mikko store –you’ll find them at 121 Kitchener Road, or view their new catalogue online at mikkoshoes.nz
Our round up of posts from local stores on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Lisa from @cosifantutte_devonport New glasses are the top of our list as summer approaches and we’ll be heading to Home Essentials based on their excellent looking selection. @homeessentials_nz
Cosi Fan Tutte has been a Devonport village favourite since 2010. It began life in the old Milk Depot building on Calliope Road before moving to its current position at 73 Victoria Road. Cosi is a magical place filled with carefully curated treasures and unique gifts for yourself, your home and the people you love. At Channel Mag, we love their approach to regularly sharing what’s new in store; their Instagram really connects with their customers and you get a genuine sense of the beautiful items currently available when scrolling their page, mostly a result of their in-house model, Jo, showcasing their newest arrivals! Lisa answers some social media focused questions and provides some detail on what’s notable in store.
Channel Mag: What can we expect to see on your Instagram account right now?
Lisa: As we head into summer, we highlight some seriously stunning fashion labels: The Shanty Corporation, One Season and a new addition, Eva's Sunday. This beautiful range features natural linen designed to move effortlessly from one season to the next. A special mention must also be made to Magnolia Pearl, a dreamy creative label from Texas, and to Eribé, a fabulous Scottish woollen knitwear company, one of only 13 Scottish businesses to have won the prestigious King's Award for Innovation, Enterprise and Business. Truly Inspirational and firm Cosi favourites.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you? Who do you recommend following and why?
We love Instagram at Cosi, engaging with our customers through creative posts and stories often featuring our gorgeous in-house model, Jo. Our favourites to follow include @magnoliapearlclothing, @eribé.knitwear, @jeannedarcliving, @mailegworld, @devonportvillage, and of course @channelmag!
What’s notable instore currently that Channel readers should know about?
In store we love our latest collection of the exquisite Bordallo Pinheiro from Portugal displayed on our centre table, it's the oldest ceramic company in the world. Our Cosi team also love anything scented - George and Edi and The Becca Project, both locally made in New Zealand, the beautiful Royal Kew Garden Botanics from England, and Durance and La Rochere glassware from France. All these gorgeous treasures are to be found in our unique store. You must come for a visit!
Visit Cosi Fan Tutte: 73 Victoria Road, Devonport, Auckland 0624 or cosifantutte.co.nz Follow in Instagram: @@cosifantutte_devonport
We want one of everything at Catchers in Wairau Valley, including this kitchen island. Just beautiful! @catchers.co.nz
Love the look of this circular rug at Flooring Xtra in Wairau: lovely looking wool and merino blend. @flooringxtra
Lisa Jordain, Store Manager (left) with owner Debbie Grenfell
Little steps towards a big future.
Nestled in the grounds of Kristin School, Little Doves is a haven for exploration, learning and play for our youngest children, aged 6 months to 4 years.
To book a tour or for more information: Visit www.kristin.school.nz, email admissions@littledoves.nz or phone 09 415 5095. 360 Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland 0632
Transformation in full swing at Milford Shopping Centre
Exciting changes are underway at Milford Shopping Centre. The centre’s transformation project is under way.
Over the past few weeks, workers have been busy at five different locations as part of the project. Cityfitness, located at the former Milford Road entrance is nearing completion, with an expected opening date prior to Christmas. Seasalt Cornwall is relocating next to Mischief Shoes, while the Christmas Heirloom store is preparing to open in its usual location for the holiday season.
Chocka Bucket is moving to the adjacent space. This will allow for a wider corridor, as part of the retail expansion, connecting the north and east wings of Milford Centre.
Landscape Design Package
The planned expansion will see approximately 16 new stores plus a new toilet block in this area. It will be an excellent addition to the Milford shopping experience.
School holiday fun:
Bricks for Kids & candle making workshop
Bricks for Kids – Bricks for Kids is back at Milford Centre, from 28 Sept to 13 October. There are three sessions daily: 10am, 11am, 12pm. Entry is FREE but bookings are encouraged to avoid any disappointment. For more information visit: milfordcentre.co.nz. Candle-making workshop – The Candle Making workshop is back! The much-loved candle making workshop with Flame in Vintage is back for the school holidays! Open Saturday 28 September to Sunday 13 October from 10am to 4pm. Pop in and make one. It takes around 30 minutes. No need to book!
Win a $3,500 landscape design package in association with Humphreys Landscaping:
Shop in Milford in October and be in to win a $3,500 landscape design package by New Zealand’s leading landscaping company, Humphreys Landscaping. Simply spend $20 or more in any of our fantastic Milford businesses and enter the draw.
Three ways to enter: entry forms in participating stores and the mall; via QR code; or go to our website and type ‘Humphreys’ in the search box. Hold onto your Milford receipt for over $20 for when we call.
What’s on in Milford in October
Milford Beach Pizza
• “Wicked Wednesday’ $20 pizzas
• Dine-in or takeaway
La Mexicana
• TACO TUESDAYS - $18 plate of Tacos
Milford Motel
• Quiz night - every Tuesday night 7.00pm
• Pizza Thursdays - $20 pizzas all day!
Milford Cruising Club
• Trivia quiz night every Thursday night 7.30pm – meal starts at 7.00pm
• Friday night is ‘Dinner Night’ from 7.00pm
The Hub - Bar & Grill
• Quiz night every Thursday night 7.30pm
• Live music every Friday night
• Open Mic every Sunday from 4.00pm
On The Rocks
• Open mic Wednesday 8.00pm
• Thursday poker night 7.00pm
• Live music at 8.00pm Friday
• Karaoke on Saturday
• Happy hour every day 4.00pm-7.00pm
Pym’s of Milford
• Live music - Friday 11 and 25 October with Jim Joll
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association, manager@milfordshops.co.nz. 021 950 463. milfordshops.co.nz
Luxury cruising offers a sophisticated blend of relaxation, exploration, and world-class service, providing travellers with an extraordinary way to explore the world. Shore Travel’s owner, Mary Buckley, returned last month from a European trip that included a Regent Seven Seas cruise around the Mediterranean and a private luxury small ship charter cruise in Croatia.
Unlike standard cruises, luxury lines prioritise personalised service, often maintaining a high staffto-guest ratio to ensure each traveller is pampered from the moment they board. Accommodations are elegant and spacious, with many suites offering private balconies, marble bathrooms, and luxurious amenities that rival top hotels.
Dining is a major highlight, with gourmet meals crafted by renowned chefs, offering culinary experiences that range from fine dining to wine pairing. The smaller, more intimate ships used in luxury cruising allow access to exclusive destinations that larger vessels cannot reach, providing a more peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
Many luxury cruises operate on an all-inclusive basis, which can cover not only meals and beverages but also shore excursions, gratuities, and sometimes even airfare. This creates a seamless, stress-free experience for guests.
The experience of a lifetime
Shore excursions are carefully curated, providing immersive cultural experiences and private tours led by expert guides. Privacy is also a key feature of luxury cruising, with fewer passengers on board, ensuring more personal space and an intimate, crowd-free environment.
Mary’s Europe trip experienced two different luxury cruises, firstly, on Seven Seas Voyager cruising from Istanbul to Trieste (Venice) via a scattering of Greek islands. With only 650 passengers, delicious restaurant options (that include Prime 7 and Chartreuse French bistro) and a huge array of free shore excursions, this was a perfect way to enjoy key Mediterranean destinations in between relaxing on this wellappointed cruise ship.
This cruise was followed by private charter of a luxury small ship in Croatia with 32 like-minded travellers. This was a highlight of Mary’s European trip. There is nothing like spending each morning swimming off the ship in the beautiful clear Adriatic Sea in a sheltered bay, before exploring a historic Croatian village during the afternoon. The meals on board this luxurious ship were delicious and plentiful and the crew were friendly and attentive. This charter is surprisingly affordable with a variety of ships and itineraries available to choose from.
For those seeking a refined travel experience that combines comfort, adventure, and VIP treatment, luxury cruising is a perfect choice. Whether visiting iconic landmarks or discovering hidden gems, luxury cruises offer a unique, unforgettable way to experience the world in style.
Enquire with Mary and her team at Shore Travel to learn more about the variety of luxury cruise options on offer.
Phone: 09 489 2597 or email: hello@shoretravel.co.nz
Designer travel advisors in the heart of North Shore.
WHAT’S TRENDING
STIRLING SPORTS
940 A-Frame Pittsburgh Pirates Toasted Peanut Cap
Sort out your baseball cap collection with the 940 A-Frame Pittsburgh Pirates Toasted Peanut Cap from New Era! This cap is perfect for supporting your team, featuring a contrast embroidered team logo front and centre.
BED BATH & BEYOND
Cove Akaroa 4 Person Picnic Basket
The Akaroa 4 Person Picnic Basket is the perfect companion for outdoor gatherings. Designed for convenience and style, this charming wicker basket includes everything you need for a relaxing meal with friends or family.
KESS HAIR & BEAUTY
Moroccanoil On-The-Go Duo
This completely transformative hair treatment detangles, speeds up drying time and boosts shine - leaving you with nourished, manageable and smooth hair with each use.
TOYWORLD
Furby Tie Dye Interactive Toy
This curious little creature is an incredibly interactive toy friend with 5 voice activated modes and over 600 phrases, jokes, songs, and more. Making it the must-have toy for endless fun and connection.
WAREHOUSE STATIONERY
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Gift Pack Purple Limited Edition
Snap, print, and share - create instant memories that last using the Instax Mini 12 Instant Film Camera Limited
ELEMENTS
Black Cauldron Oil Burner
This magical cauldron oil burner is made from high quality ceramic material and features cut-out star detailing. Simply add your favourite oils or wax melt to the cauldron and relax!
PLATYPUS
Reebok BB 4000 II
Beautifully simple. These Reebok shoes play with white and o -white hues for a delicate look. Subtle metallic details on a soft leather upper give them a touch of style without being overdone.
EB GAMES
Deadpool Hearts Wolverine Pop! Vinyl Figure
This Pop! features Deadpool holding a polaroid photo of Wolverine, which is decorated in love hearts! Add him to your collection today!
Give the perfect present every time!
Seal the deal with Seal's
Meet Steve Deacon, a North Shore native and the driving force behind Seal Plumbing and Gas Services. With over 16 years in the plumbing and gas fitting arena, Steve, who clinched the 'Apprentice of the Year' award in 2008, has channelled his vast experience into creating a premier plumbing service.
"At Seal, we’re more than just a team; we’re a network fully equipped and connected to handle every facet of plumbing and gas fitting across Auckland.
"Our services range widely, from fixing those bothersome leaky taps and running toilets to undertaking full-scale bathroom renovations and new plumbing installations in homes and commercial environments. We’re also the go-to experts for installing and maintaining gas heating systems, cookers and hot water systems, ensuring your home or business runs smoothly without a hitch.
Our use of cutting-edge technology like drain cameras allows us to diagnose and resolve issues with unmatched precision. And because we know the importance of safety and quality, all our services are rendered by certified professionals whose work not only meets but exceeds the stringent standards set by New Zealand's regulatory bodies."
Seal’s commitment to excellence isn't just something they preach; it’s proven with a stellar 4.7-star rating on Google Reviews from over 270 satisfied customers. Their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction is what sets them apart in a competitive industry.
Are you ready to experience the Seal difference? Whether it's a minor repair or a major installation, let us take care of your plumbing and gas fitting needs with the assurance of top-tier service. Visit our website or give us a call today to book an appointment.
SEAL Plumbing and Gas Services - where quality meets reliability. 021 79 79 12 steve@sealplumbing.co.nz sealplumbing.co.nz
We are open Monday to Friday 7.30am-5pm, Saturday 9am-12pm After hours by previous arrangement.
SEAL Plumbing and Gas Services for unmatched professionalism and reliability in Auckland From faulty hot water systems to leaking taps, our certified team efficiently handles all your plumbing and gasfitting needs with precision
Steve Deacon
Interior design with Kirsten Ford of KFD Interiors
Summer style!
Summer is on the horizon. Warm weather and longer evenings combine to create a season that’s perfect for entertaining, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. So here are our top tips to stylishly prepare your outdoors for summer:
Want to 'Refresh' before the summer? Start planning now!
Like many areas in life, success comes from planning.
1. Furniture: As you extend your living to the outdoors, treat it as a continuation of the overall style and colour palette of your home. And look beyond the usual greys and charcoals for outdoor upholstery – there's a fabulous range of colours, textures and patterns available in high-performance fabrics, suitable for outdoor use and resistant to our harsh UV.
2. Outdoor rug: Super soft underfoot, outdoor rugs are perfect for defining a seating area, adding texture and a little bit of luxe to your outdoor space. Generally, these are made of recycled plastic, nylon or polyester, are water resistant and best of all, are super easy to hose down for a quick clean. Available in a wide range of colours and patterns, I think rugs are the most underrated accessories for any outdoor space.
3. Cushions: Not just for our interiors, cushions are key to dressing an outdoor space, adding both style and personality. Opt for fun contrasting patterns and textures – there are even outdoor velvets, which are beautifully plush and glam. I always suggest larger-sized cushions to elevate your look. We prefer to mix 55 x 55cm cushions with 60 x 40cm ones. And always ensure the cushions are made from high-performing fabrics with the best quality quick-dry inners.
I would love to help you create an outdoor living space with style and edge, so get in touch to book a consultation.
Thinking about your next renovation for summer? Now is the time to get the ball rolling! Choose the right renovation consultant to help you get a design in place and bring your vision to life.
Depending on what you are planning to do, there may be a range of specialists who need to be involved, including an architect, engineer, topographical surveyor, quantity surveyor, geotech engineer.... The list goes on! Choosing someone who can work with all these specialists and ensure everything ties in together will not only make things go smoothly but also save money so you don't have to compromise on the finishing touches of your renovation.
Having clear plans to hand over to the trades will always make a job run well and ensure everyone understands what should be happening. Make sure both you and the project manager sign off on the plans. This helps in the unfortunate event of a dispute. Spend as much time as you need going over the design to ensure it reflects your dream renovation. Often, time spent planning can be longer than the build itself. This is not a bad thing; the more detailed the plans are, the faster and less stressful the build will be.
A good project manager is vital to the success of a renovation.
As the weather starts warming up, homeowners start dreaming about their next renovation and often hope to have it completed by Christmas. For those beginning to get itchy feet, now is the time to start designing/planning. Any good renovation company will get very busy as the months edge closer to the end of the year. It is not uncommon to find that your dream of a completed renovation before Christmas or the summer months is not going to be obtainable.
Beat the rush - now is the time to engage the specialists and get planning so that you can wow your guests this summer! Contact Sarah and Jeremy on the North Shore if you need an expert to walk you through the process of design to project completion.
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
Jeremy & Sarah Lowe, Renovation Consultants
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and director at Lake Road Electrical
Transform your outdoors:
Electrify and illuminate your space!
As we gear up for another beautiful summer here on the North Shore, it’s the ideal time to think about enhancing your outdoor living spaces. Good lighting and proper electrical setups can elevate your outdoor experience, blending functionality, safety and style just right. Here’s a quick guide to making your outdoor areas the perfect spot for North Shore living.
Safety first: Always choose weather-resistant materials and ensure installations are carried out by licensed professionals like us. Safety is crucial, especially outdoors.
Functionality: Think about how you want to use your space. Maybe you want to jazz up the bbq area, add a spa pool or just create a cosy, lit environment where you can relax after a long day.
Effective lighting: Good outdoor lighting is both practical and beautiful. Include pathway lights, security lights with motion sensors, and specific task lighting for cooking or dining areas.
Aesthetic appeal: With the right lights, you can transform your property’s look at night. Strategic placement can highlight your home’s best features and make your garden a nighttime wonder.
Energy efficiency: Go for LED lights – they’re tough, save on power and last ages. Using smart systems like timers and sensors can also cut down on unnecessary energy use.
Regular maintenance: Keep your lighting in top shape by cleaning fixtures and checking for any wear and tear.
Whether it’s a backyard bbq or a quiet evening by the fire pit, enhancing your outdoor space with proper lighting and electricals can make all the difference. Thinking about upgrading your outdoor areas? Give us a shout. We’d love to help make your outdoor living space as stunning and functional as it can be.
STAY ACTIVE.
Be Active.
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.
Join in the fun at Takapuna Boating Club, right on Takapuna beach! 39 The Str and, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz
SkinSense Beauty Therapy & Day Spa Retreat 53b Victoria Road, Devonport • 09 445 7077 • skinsense.co.nz
Health, Devonport 82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5pm Sat & Sun: Closed www.earhealth.co.nz | 09 242 0866
Charity house tour offers exclusive look at exquisite homes
Owners of ten of Devonport’s finest homes open their doors for a good cause in the popular biennial Homes of Devonport house tour being held on Friday 1 November 2024.
From a stunning mid-century eclectic home to a coastal apartment in a refurbished heritage building, and a jawdropping newly renovated family retreat beneath North Head with modern twists on the traditional Devonport villa, the Homes of Devonport house tour showcases the very best our seaside suburb has to offer while raising money for three worthy charities.
Organised by Devonport Rotary and Bayleys Real Estate, proceeds will go to Dementia Auckland, Cure Kids and Rotary Charitable Trust, plus local schools, clubs and kindergartens in the area will also benefit by selling tickets for the event. Extra funds will also be raised from the sale of a range of sought-after goodies, including raffles, goody bags, Christmas cakes, decorations and more, available at some of the homes on the day. Each house will be themed for Christmas, providing tour-goers with inspiration for styling their own homes and tables for the festive season ahead.
“We love that the whole community gets behind this event, with children from local kindergartens and schools decorating wooden Christmas trees that will be on display at one of the homes,” says event manager Lynda Betts of Bayleys. “The event really is a special and fun day whether you are looking for interior, renovation or
Christmas inspiration, or simply want to enjoy a special day out with your friends while having a nosey at some stunning homes,” she adds.
Kate Alexander is one of the Devonport homeowners opening her home for the house tour. A well-known interior designer and stylist, she couldn’t resist the opportunity to be involved in such a worthwhile event. “I love all things interior and have been on the Homes of Devonport tour myself in the past. I am very excited to share my love of interiors with others and support these worthy causes at the same time, especially knowing 100% of the funds raised go directly to the charities,” says Alexander.
Cure Kids CEO Frances Soutter says this is the first year that Cure Kids has been a beneficiary of the event and can’t wait to be involved. “We are honoured to be part of the Homes of Devonport tour this year and are grateful to Rotary, a founding partner of Cure Kids, and our partner Bayleys Real Estate - two amazing organisations joining hands to raise money for Cure Kids. Funds raised will go directly to supporting research on the big health issues which impact the lives of our tamariki,” says Soutter.
The Homes of Devonport tour takes place on Friday 1 November. Tickets cost $85 and are available on eventfinda.co.nz
Fresh veges, anyone?
The Botanic Silverdale offers retirees a range of world-class health and wellness facilities, but one of the most recent additions is bringing some residents a newfound sense of purpose and joy.
It was the British poet, Alfred Austin who so eloquently described the spiritual benefits of tending a garden.
“The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul,” he said.
It is a quote that rings true at The Botanic Silverdale where a specialist landscaping team have designed, planted, and nurtured the village’s native and exotic gardens. More recently, green-fingered residents have also left an indelible mark on The Botanic Silverdale with the recent opening of the Community Garden.
Residents were encouraged to have their say on how it should be planted and managed.
“It appears we have a lot of keen gardeners among our residents because we didn’t have to ask them twice,” says Alan Edwards, a partner at The Botanic Silverdale.
The Community Garden quickly became a resident-led project encompassing two 26m2 ‘Winter Gardenz’ glasshouses, a timber pergola, 24 individual planter boxes, and an edible orchard of fruit trees and vines including persimmon, citrus, feijoa, fig, grape, berries, stone fruits, apple, and avocado.
The Community Garden is now wholly run by residents, for residents.
“Our village staff are basically hands off. Our construction team help out if the residents need any building work around the garden or in the BBQ area, but the gardens are completely in the hands of our residents and that’s their choice. It’s wonderful.”
Alan Ferguson is the chair of the Community Garden committee and says the garden has become a calm and welcoming environment which fosters companionship and connection.
“Many of us have been gardening for years so we bring all of that
experience into one place, and everybody benefits.”
Residents began planting early in autumn, and the planter boxes and glasshouses are now flush with the fruits of their labour. Brassica vegetables, onions, and glasshouse tomatoes are all growing well in the winter months.
“What I am most proud of is that this project has been driven by our residents. They told us what they wanted, they made recommendations about some of the fruit trees, and look what they’ve created,” says Edwards.
17 SMALL ROAD, SILVERDALE THEBOTANIC.CO.NZ
Fundraiser Event
New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Auckland North proudly sponsors a heartfelt fundraiser for Woven Earth and Littlemore.
At New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Auckland North, we believe in the spirit of community and the power of giving back. This year, we are honoured to be the main sponsor of an inspiring fundraiser, dedicated to supporting two extraordinary local charities— Woven Earth and Littlemore.
This event will be held on Wednesday 6 November 2024 at the Milford Cruising Club with the wonderful Natasha MacLeod the host showcasing the silent auctions, live auctions, raffles, giveaways and guest speakers.
These two organisations are the lifeline for families who are in the most vulnerable positions. Woven Earth is committed to helping survivors of family violence rebuild their lives with dignity by furnishing empty homes, giving these families not just shelter, but hope. Their efforts provide survivors with the tangible tools they need to create new beginnings, often after fleeing with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Littlemore, meanwhile, offers a different kind of support by providing pre-loved baby essentials to families in need. Every baby deserves to start life safely and warmly, and thanks to Littlemore, families leaving the hospital don’t have to worry about basic necessities for their newborns. Whether it’s clothing, blankets, or other essentials, these small acts of kindness help families facing tough times feel supported and cared for.
We are especially thrilled to have our very own managing director of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Auckland North, Susi Matz, as this year’s auctioneer. Susi will be leading the charge to raise vital funds through live auctions featuring some truly remarkable items, all generously donated for this event. It’s a night that promises
Fundraiser Event
excitement, but more importantly, the chance to come together as a community to make a meaningful difference.
Our sales associates Prudence and Emmersen Foster have also stepped up as ambassadors for the event, actively supporting both Woven Earth and Littlemore.
Last year, we partnered with Woven Earth by setting up a Christmas tree in our office as a drop-off point for donations. It was heartwarming to see our clients, neighbours, and friends rally around this cause, filling the tree with gifts to help those who had lost everything.
This year, we’re continuing that tradition with just as much enthusiasm, because we know that every small contribution can change a life.
To learn more or to offer your support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to either Susi or Prudence, at New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Auckland North.
Susi Matz Prudence Foster
M +64 21 365 220 M +64 27 486 7783 susi.matz@nzsir.com prudence.foster@nzsir.com
Putting down roots at Orion Point
Welcome to the first in a series of stories that share the experiences of residents at Metlifecare’s Orion Point. Hear how they came to be there, what shaped their choice of retirement village, and what life is like since making Orion Point their home.
With wide open green spaces, native plants, birdlife, and a coastal boardwalk right outside her door, moving to Orion Point was an easy decision for nature lover, Annette Rice.
Having spent the last 40 years living on large properties in West Auckland and surrounded by their favourite hiking tracks in the Waitākere Ranges, Orion Point’s spaciousness was a huge selling point for Annette and husband, Phil.
Being among the first residents to move into the village in September 2023, space is one thing the couple certainly got.
“At that time, the village was still being constructed – there was no amenities building or activities yet, just the early stages of what was to come. But it was really fascinating to watch it all being built up around us,” says Annette.
“When I first saw the advertisement for Orion Point, and the surrounding area, I thought, ‘I could live there.’ And after visiting, I knew that I could really live here!”
Now happily settled, Annette admits they weren’t always keen on the idea of retirement village living. “A few years ago, if you’d asked us, we would’ve said ‘no way’. You have these
preconceptions of what a retirement village is like – crowded, claustrophobic, or a bit dated. But Orion Point couldn’t be further from that. It doesn’t look or feel like a retirement village at all.”
“When I first saw the advertisement for Orion Point, and the surrounding area, I thought, ‘I could live there.’ And after visiting, I knew that I could really live here!”
Location was another deciding factor for Annette and Phil. They didn’t want to move too far from their friends, family, and the life they’d built. Plus, an easy commute to the city meant
Annette Rice, Orion Point resident planting trees on Motutapu Island.
Annette could continue her conservation work with the Motutapu Restoration Trust, where she’s been volunteering for the past five years.
“Most Wednesdays, I catch the ferry from Hobsonville Point into the city, and from there head over to Motutapu Island. I spend the day planting two-metre trees, pulling weeds, or helping in the nursery. It’s hard work, but it keeps me fit!”
Since moving to Orion Point, Annette has also embraced new hobbies and interests. She’s taken up line dancing, Zumba Gold, and Aqua Zumba, enjoys quiz nights and Happy Hour, and has joined the garden club, where residents grow their own produce.
“One thing I missed from our previous home was my garden. But here, I get to plant veggies without the worry of maintenance or having to mow lawns – it’s the best of both worlds.”
“One thing I missed from our previous home was my garden. But here, I get to plant veggies without the worry of maintenance or having to mow lawns – it’s the best of both worlds.”
With all that’s on offer, Annette and Phil have also become more social, forming a new group of friends who feel more like family.
Annette’s only complaint? There’s almost too much to do!
“I thought I’d finally get around to finishing all my old projects – I call them my ‘UFOs’ (UnFinished Objects) – but since moving here, I haven’t had the time!”
Find a village that feels like home
Call Kirsty on 09 300 0518 | orionpointsales@metlifecare.co.nz
Annette in the Orion Point village community garden.
NZ Dolphin Underwater and Adventure Club turns 70
Anniversary celebration at Milford Cruising Club on the Saturday 19 October
In early 1953 a keen group of North Shore spear fishermen formed as a spear fishing club with scuba diving emerging as an activity within the club later in the year. From this group The Dolphin Underwater Club was formed in 1954 and is now the oldest continually running scuba club in New Zealand.
Over the years the Lake Pupuke based club has remained very active with the emphasis gradually changing to a wide range of dive and adventure related activities, and becoming more concerned with environmental issues.
The club has had some members excelling in underwater photography, taking out some major photographic awards.
Club Members, Jenny and Tony Enderby, are very successful freelance photojournalists contributing to over 70 magazines in 10 different countries throughout the world. Tony and Jenny are publishing a new book titled ‘Volunteer Voices’.
Today the club operates as the NZ Dolphin Underwater and Adventure Club with the inclusion of activities to cater for the non-diving partners, family and friends of members. With tramping, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, overseas holidays, dining out and many other activities mixed in with a wide range of organised dives mostly around the northern New Zealand coast, the most popular being the Poor Knights especially for underwater photography. Members also take on environmental issues with regular cleanups of rivers, reefs, harbours and Lake Pupuke, and volunteer on a regular basis to assist with Experiencing Marine Reserves.
The club prides themselves with their safety record; encouraging divers to continue their education to keep themselves out of trouble and to be there to help others in case they may need it. They also support the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Project Jonah, Coastguard, Young Ocean Explorers and Experiencing Marine Reserves - Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, and they’re affiliated to the NZ Underwater Association.
Today the club operates as the NZ Dolphin Underwater and Adventure Club with the inclusion of activities to cater for the nondiving partners, family and friends of members.
The club’s kayaking trips venture from Lake Pupuke and North Head to as far afield as the Bay of Islands including some exciting South Island kayaking trips.
Mountain biking is a much-enjoyed part of the club with regular trips to Woodhill State Forest and the Hunua Ranges, also the Redwood Forest in Rotorua and doing the 42nd Traverse in National Park. The famous Otago Rail Trail in the South Island is also a club favourite.
Some recent club tramping trips have been to the Pinnacles in Coromandel, walking into and staying at Dacre Cottage, Whatipu, Waitakeres, Mt Te Aroha, Mt Ruapehu and the Tongariro Crossing.
Along with all the other diving and fun activities over the years, there have been members enjoying many overseas dive trips together, the latest in June to the Philippines, the club's third trip there.
The club has clubrooms at Lake Pupuke, Northcote Road Extension, Takapuna. Members meet every second Wednesday of the month at 7pm and have regular guest speakers. New Members are always welcome.
The NZ Dolphin Underwater and Adventure Club celebrates its 70th anniversary with an event at the Milford Cruising Club on the Saturday 19 October.
For more information visit: dolphinunderwater.co.nz
Dolphin Club life members Peter and Margaret Howard
Christine Rose with Roger Grace being present with the Wyland Award.
Club Members, Jenny and Tony Enderby, are very successful freelance photojournalists contributing to over 70 magazines in 10 different countries throughout the world. Tony and Jenny are publishing a new book titled ‘Volunteer Voices’.
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
SimonWattsMP
Hon Simon Watts MP for North Shore Dan Bidois MP for Northcote
dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz
DanBidoisMP
Sheree Foster - Multi Award Winning Artist
Monday 4 November to Sunday 1 December The exhibition opens every day at the Next Door Gallery studio
Next Door Gallery | 132 Hinemoa St, Birkenhead www.shereefosterartist.co.nz
Authorised by Hon Simon Watts, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
From DTLB Chair, Toni van Tonder
Two years in, lots to be proud of
October is always a month of reflection for the elected members in local government. It’s in October that we hold our inaugural meetings after an election, officially starting the political term for newly elected and returning representatives.
This October marks the second year of the three-year term and in last month’s business meeting we adopted our FY 23/24 annual report. When you drill into the details, there’s plenty that this local board can hang its hat on and I’m proud of the way the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board has worked collaboratively to achieve some quality outcomes, as well as initiating some important projects alongside the community.
In the last two years we’ve completed and opened the fantastic Patuone Walkway off Barry’s Point Road, connecting people to nature and to Takapuna's metro centre on a gorgeous green route. We’ve installed new fitness equipment at Bayswater Park, as well as upgraded sports field lighting to LED. A new toilet was installed at Tonkin Park in Sunnynook and at the end of this year, construction will start on the new skate facility in Sunnynook too. We’re currently consulting on a new skate facility at Woodall Park in Narrow Neck, building on the existing sporting codes already present in this location. We opened Allenby Reserve playground, and it’s a goodie, and we’ve approved two new playground renewals at Achilles Reserve in Narrow Neck and Belle Verde in Forrest Hill. New sports changing facilities have also been approved at Becroft Park.
We’re soon to make a political decision on the fate of 139 Beach Road, the old barracks building in a state of dilapidation, as well as the Kennedy Park Beach stairs that were badly damaged during the 2023 weather events. Earlier this year we had the pleasure of opening the extension to Gould Reserve playground; an all-inclusive playground adjacent to our new beach changing rooms alongside fully inclusive bathroom facilities. We have generous benefactors Chris and Jackie Reeve to thank for enabling this great addition.
We’ve addressed the challenges of Te Uru Tapu, our ancient coastal pohutukawa forest at the northern end of Takapuna Beach and are excited to finally see action in cleaning up and protecting this site of cultural significance. It’s thanks to these strengthened relationships with iwi that we’re now able to start working towards the restoration and protection of Te Rahopara Ō Peretu pā site in Kennedy Park, something that the folk in Castor Bay have been nudging us on for many years.
Recently we responded to concerns around safety and crime, and supported the Takapuna Beach Business Association with new CCTV cameras installed in Waiwharariki, ANZAC Square, as well as provided operating grants to North Harbour Community Patrol, Neighbourhood Support and Blue Light North Shore.
In our community development space additional support was provided to our two remarkable community houses in Devonport and Sunnynook, and we shifted our development model from a top-down event delivery approach to a bottom up, grass roots approach, where two community activators are out there connecting organisations to resources, funding, and building capability. We’re already seeing the benefits of this work with many groups we’ve never encountered before applying for contestable grants and delivering what they want to see in their neighbourhoods. We’ve also strongly backed our two environmental restoration groups who do amazing work in our reserves, restoring the environment and building community connection.
There have been hundreds of thousands of dollars granted to community groups in the last two years; supporting events such as Winter Lights, Takapuna Rocks, Milford Christmas Carnival, Devonport’s Mid Winter Swim and many, many more. We’ve helped organisations
with heat pumps and dishwashers, sports equipment and stage productions.
The stuff that you don’t see is the advocacy we do. We’ve seen a lot of change in Council over the last two years and some of the proposals presented have not been in our favour. One was ‘fairer funding’, ultimately a redistribution of funding across the city to create greater equity. Our local board would have lost nearly $4million of capital budget over three years, preventing us from renewing and investing in our local assets. With some serious advocacy to all governing body members we managed to dodge that bullet, and equity was achieved through the addition of new funding only. We were also presented with a proposed reorganisation that would have seen our board merge with another, distancing residents even further from decision making and true local representation. We’re grateful that the governing body listened to us and did not proceed. And in a final win for advocacy, we're proud to report that Auckland Transport has listened to our requests to investigate quick wins and intersection optimisation opportunities on Lake Road. With funding for the upgrade project sitting in outer years of the 10 year transport plan, we asked that we focus on what can be achieved in the immediate; and we’re happy to share that this is exactly what Auckland Transport is going to do.
With one more year to go, there are many more projects and proposals we’re looking to advance, and we’re grateful to every resident who has helped shape the direction we’re headed.
Toni van Tonder, Chair, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board toni.vantonder@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Better Blokes – helping men struggling with trauma
Better Blokes has been around on the North Shore for about seven years. The organisation started out using the Browns Bay Community Centre for its meetings and around two years ago moved to Glenfield to a space they could call their own, creating a much more welcoming environment
The organisation is all about helping men who are struggling with trauma; men who have grown up in families, or environments, where violence, sexual abuse or addiction has meant they have missed out on the nurture and love every child needs and deserves. This is for men who need somewhere to talk about the stuff that triggers anger, shame, loneliness, and those feelings of unworthiness.
Many male survivors of violent and sexual abuse face relationship challenges with friends, family/whānau and workmates and experience great difficulty interacting with support service providers. Effective peer support hinges on building a trust-based relationship between the survivor and their peer-support-worker. It is this safe and trusted relationship that can provide a real opportunity for the growth and recovery of the survivor.
The life experience of the peer-support-worker creates common ground from which the trust relationship with the person is formed. Empowerment, empathy, hope and choice along with mutuality are the main drivers in purposeful peer support. There is a great deal of strength gained from knowing someone who has walked where you are walking and now has a life of their choosing.
A peer support group may be helpful if you feel lonely because of the isolation that the shame associated with abuse can often create. In a peer support group, men can share their feelings and experiences when they are ready. Sharing with those who have gone through similar experiences offers connection and an antidote to isolation.
Better Blokes provides peer support for men who have experienced violent and sexual abuse. You can get in touch via phone or email to arrange a support session. That session can be either by phone or in person. Each session is client-centred, allowing you to control the pace and content.
Meeting with people who speak your language
When you are in a peer support relationship (one-to one or in a peer group), it’s common to hear other men share and talk about experiences that you recognise, what you’ve been through and things that relate to why you are seeking support. It’s helpful to know that you are in conversation with a person or a group of people who understand what you are dealing with.
We are all social beings by nature –connectedness and community are necessary if not vital to our wellbeing. Reconnecting and building trust are often at the core of healing from abuse, sexual or other violence.
By Rick Goodwin and Mark Patton – Survivors Helping Survivors
No matter what you’ve been through, what you say or how you say it, your peers have likely been through it, seen it before, or heard it from someone else. There is no need to fear the judgment of your peer support person or the group when you are doing nothing more than sharing your own experience.
You will meet people who started out where you are, have had similar experiences and have moved forward to a place of recovery. This provides an opportunity to develop coping skills as you learn how others have navigated their life challenges.
Contact Better Blokes on 0800 448 484 or phone
Patrick Giles, Northern Support Supervisor at Better Blokes on 09 378 8821 or Email: patrick.giles@betterblokes.org.nz Visit: betterblokes.org.nz
Andre Whiu
Patrick Giles
Better Blokes North Shore base in Glenfield
By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder
Do women and men need the same amount of sleep?
While men and women have equal capabilities, their physiological differences result in distinct bodily needs. For instance, men typically have more muscle mass, which leads to a higher caloric requirement, while women generally need more protein and iron due to factors such as energy requirements, menstruation and pregnancy. These differences are not limited to nutrition; they also extend to sleep. Biological factors, hormonal changes and brain activity contribute to variations in sleep needs between men and women, with women often requiring slightly more sleep for optimal recovery and functioning.
Research shows women need on average 11 minutes more sleep than men and if women cannot achieve these extra life-giving minutes of recuperation, they may experience severe physical and psychological stress. Despite this, our culture and society are geared up in the opposite direction. Let's explore the differences in gender sleep needs so we can make informed decisions to honour ourselves and our loved ones.
Several reasons contribute to this difference in sleep needs for men and women:
1. Brain activity and multitasking: Women's brains tend to work more dynamically throughout the day, often engaging in more complex multitasking, which can lead to greater mental fatigue. As a result, their brains require more recovery time during sleep.
2. Hormonal fluctuations: Women experience monthly hormonal fluctuations due to their menstrual cycles, and these changes can affect sleep quality. Pregnancy and menopause, both of which involve significant hormonal shifts, can also disrupt sleep, leading to a need for more sleep to recover and function optimally.
3. Sleep quality differences: Research is conflicted as to whether women have a longer or shorter circadian rhythm but they do know that women are more likely than men to suffer from insomnia, restless leg syndrome and other sleep disorders, which significantly reduce overall sleep quality. This may be creating an instinctual drive for more sleep to compensate for the interruptions and poor quality of sleep women are able to achieve.
4. Emotional processing: Studies have suggested that women may process emotions more intensively than men, which can add to neurological load and fatigue, increasing the need for restorative sleep and especially REM sleep phase, which is where people emotionally process what is happening in their lives whilst dreaming.
Sociological factors:
1. Unpaid work and sleep fragmentation: Although women may get more total sleep, it can be of lower quality and more fragmented due to unpaid work (like caregiving or housework). This 'time poverty' often leads to women getting rest in less optimal conditions, potentially leading to longer but less restful sleep. In some cases, naps or shorter sleep periods compensate for fragmented sleep.
2. Social roles and sleep interruptions: Women's caregiving roles, especially in households with children, sick or elderly family members, often result in more interrupted sleep than men. To cope
with the accumulated fatigue, women might sleep longer overall, though the sleep may not be as restful.
3. Self-care and coping mechanisms: In some cases, women may prioritise sleep as a coping strategy for stress, fatigue or balancing multiple roles, even if they have less leisure time. Studies suggest women might actively try to 'catch up' on rest whenever possible due to their greater sleep disruptions.
All these factors may lead to women requiring more sleep than men on average. However, individual sleep needs still vary widely based on lifestyle, family and community demands, age, health and stress levels. One thing remains certain: sleep is one of the most important pillars for health, and ensuring both men and women get optimal levels and exceptional quality of sleep is essential.
References: PNAS Plus: Sex differences in the circadian regulation of sleep and waking cognition in humans - PMC (nih.gov); Gender and Time for Sleep among U.S. Adults - PMC (nih.gov)
SleepDrops' expert range of sleep support products can be combined to create your own unique sleep support regime. Please visit us at sleepdrops.co.nz for all our latest product videos, or reach out to our professional team for individualised dosing recommendations.
By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH
Achieve a brighter, healthier smile
Introducing the Mint membership plan
At Mint Dental Hygiene, we believe a confident, radiant smile begins with prevention. Our mission is to provide exceptional dental hygiene care that keeps your teeth and gums in optimal condition, helping you avoid future issues before they arise.
Why settle for anything less than a brilliant smile and excellent health?
Regular dental hygiene visits are more than just a treatment – they're an investment in your overall wellbeing.
Our expert hygienist focuses on the essential connection between oral health and systemic health, knowing that excellent hygiene can prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other serious health issues, potentially saving you from costly treatments in the future. Research underscores the value of preventive care. The Journal of Clinical Periodontology shows that regular visits to a dental hygienist can greatly reduce your risk of gum disease. Additionally, the Journal of Dental Research highlights that routine cleanings significantly lower the chances of tooth decay and tooth loss, helping you avoid expensive procedures down the line.
When you choose Mint Dental Hygiene, you’re not just booking a cleaning, you’re investing in your health and confidence. Our comprehensive visits include thorough cleanings, detailed gum health assessments, oral cancer screenings and personalised care plans tailored to your needs. After your initial visit, you’ll have the option to join our Mint membership plan which offers exceptional value with regular cleanings and ongoing periodontal maintenance (terms and conditions apply).
Don’t wait for problems to develop – take proactive steps to ensure your smile remains bright. If you need to treat oral disease, see a dentist. If you want to prevent it, visit a dental hygienist. Schedule your hygiene visit today and discover how Mint Dental Hygiene can support your long-term health and keep your smile at its best.
Nova
Edgcombe BSc, RDH
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Five tips to keep your ears happy this summer
Here are five tips to keep your ears healthy and make the most of your time with friends and family this summer.
1. Use earplugs or earmuffs at noisy events. Speakers and sound equipment at concerts and large events usually exceed the recommended decibel level, and can cause noise-induced hearing loss if you’re exposed for too long.
2. Wear hearing protection when using loud machinery. Summer is a great time to tend the garden, but the noise from power tools, lawnmowers, weed-whackers and hedge trimmers can damage your hearing. Wear muffs or plugs.
3. Turn it down. As tempting as it is to turn up the volume when listening to your favourite tunes, repeated exposure to sounds over 85 decibels can be a risk to your hearing health. When listening to music in the car, at home or via earbuds, limit the volume to about 60% of the maximum setting.
4. Avoid swimmer’s ear. After swimming, tilt your head from side to side to drain any residual water and thoroughly dry your ears. Use earplugs if you are prone to infections or if water in the ear bothers you.
5. Visit us for custom earplugs. If you spend time in noisy environments or the water, speciality-made or custom-fitted earplugs are an option to consider. We recommend tried and tested brands and can order filtered plugs for you. We also provide individually crafted earplugs from exact impressions of your ears, ensuring the best fit for you.
If you want to learn more about healthy hearing, book wax removal, a hearing check or custom earplugs, call us on 09 475 9849!
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
When thinking about wellness we often consider reducing stress
This reflects the common misconception that stress is a negative state – “distress”. However, stress is simply a reaction to a challenge or demand, and sometimes it can be positive. “Eustress” is a state of fulfilment and excitement when you’re out of your comfort zone but thriving on the challenge. Humans are designed to set and achieve goals.
The experience of distress or eustress is very subjective. The same potentially stressful event, for example a house move or new job, can affect different people differently. One person will experience excitement while another person experiences being overwhelmed. One of the predictors of response will be that person’s state of wellness when the change event arises. This explains why sometimes we can glide through the heavy challenge of supporting a seriously ill relative, while at other times we can lose our mind over organising a holiday.
Distress and eustress are on opposite ends of a continuum depending on whether your physical and emotional resources are adequate to meet the demands you’re facing. Capacity can be broadened in many ways. As a personal trainer it’s easy to be evangelical about the broadening benefits of exercise. For a healthy person, exercise can be the ultimate form of eustress. It can get you out of your physical comfort zone and into a state of endorphin-induced euphoria. However, for a person who is depleted and run down, the physical exertion of exercise can cause physical and emotional distress. It can be an unfortunate tug of war between the great discomfort of exercise and the great guilt of not exercising.
Sometimes when you’re under extreme stress rest is best. It can be the pathway back to other improving activities. Sleep is the ultimate form of rest but sleep alone will not automatically lead to wellness. Everyone’s rest requirements are different, and your individual requirement will depend on how much load you’re under.
Rest could be sitting by the fire with the cat in the winter or lying in the sun with the dog in the summer. It could be taking a bath, reading or sitting in a spa or sauna. Emotional rest could be enjoying downtime with no scheduled activities or taking a break from your phone.
Sleep and rest are good, rejuvenation is great. Rejuvenation activities tend to require a little more emotional energy to get organised – for example getting a massage, doing yoga, taking a walk with a friend or meditating. Introverts often find it rejuvenating to be alone or with close loved ones while extroverts find it rejuvenating to get out and see lots of people. For ambiverts it depends on the circumstances.
Many regular activities masquerade as rest but they’re just a response to exhaustion. It’s easy to spend hours watching tv when too tired to go to bed. Scrolling social media might feel like a reprieve from responsibility but most people don’t feel rested by that experience.
Once you have prioritised authentic rest you’ll find that rejuvenating activities feel exciting rather than burdensome. At this stage you may feel ready for the challenge of a creative project, a community endeavour, a trip away or a new exercise regime.
It’s virtually impossible to avoid distress entirely. The distress / eustress continuum is quite fluid – the same stressor might create eustress in the morning when morale is high, but distress later in the day as blood sugar gets low. You will probably find there is a best time of day and week for your exercise where it feels at least manageable. If you’re making consistent progress with your physical health you’ll experience greater resilience and find yourself in the optimal state of eustress much more often.
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
Pilates for men
Many men think Pilates is only for women but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, Joseph Pilates originally developed his workouts for injured men returning from World War I. Later he adapted his techniques for athletes and others recovering from injuries.
Pilates tends to be popular among women because it’s low impact and creates long, lean muscles rather than bulk. Some men feel they are getting a workout only if they’re slinging a bunch of iron plates or dumbbells. While it’s true that lifting heavy weights can pump up your muscles, functional exercise is more conducive to long-term health and fitness.
By the time you’ve passed 40, the body you had in your twenties and thirties has begun to change in ways that require more emphasis on abdominal and core strength combined with stretching and balance, rather than just working the individual muscles that are targeted by the typical bench press, curl or dead lift. Pilates provides an effective full-body workout that promotes overall health and helps reduce the effects of a more sedentary lifestyle.
But don’t just take our word for it. Many All-Blacks and Warriors incorporate Pilates into their training regime because the ab emphasis and functional fitness help them avoid injuries. Notable athletes who are Pilates enthusiasts include Shaun Johnson, Beau Barrett and TJ Perenara. Many American football players also have adopted Pilates even though NFL players are not known for their long lean muscles but rather for their bulk. All-Pro Dexter Lawrence (1.93 meters, 154 kilos) is a fan of Pilates because it provides “a lot of core work… that helps with my lower back.”
If you’re concerned that Pilates won’t give you enough of a workout, listen to what Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips has to say about Pilates: “I voluntarily go to shake like a leaf and hold myself in these extremely challenging tough positions... It makes your body stronger but also makes your mind, soul and spirit stronger. I really leave Pilates with a glow.”
Come shake like a leaf and get your glow on at Suna with an Intro Pack, which gives you three Reformer and three Fit classes for only $60. Additional Intro Packs are available at pilates.co.nz
Sweetman Law celebrates one year in Takapuna
Tony Sweetman and the Sweetman Law team are thrilled to mark their first anniversary since relocating to the Oceanbridge building Level One 25 Anzac Street, directly opposite Shore City. Operating from Takapuna provides convenience to North Shore and Auckland-wide clients. Sweetman Law’s philosophy has always been to provide cost-effective, high-quality legal advice for clients and their families in life and future planning.
Sweetman Law: Your legal partner in life and future planning
Tony Sweetman has practised on the North Shore for over 35 years, making this relocation to Takapuna a homecoming of sorts, having previously been a partner at Coupe Davidson Sweetman. Together with directors Casey Smith and Sarah Hilhorst, Tony is able to provide leadership to a young team of lawyers and pass on his wealth of experience and knowledge with a focus on working with clients in life (estate) planning.
Why choose Sweetman Law?
As a general practice firm, we have the expertise to assist with legal matters across various fields including trusts, property, relationship property and commercial matters. Navigating the often-complex legal landscape requires a legal partner you can trust. Sweetman Law focuses on building long-term partnerships with its clients, guiding them through a range of legal issues that arise throughout life.
Whether you require advice involving a complex property transaction, a challenging relationship property issue or
are seeking competent legal advice on commercial matters, our experienced team is here to navigate with you and assist in the resolution of these often-complex issues with care and understanding.
Tailored legal solutions
We recognise that no two people, families or businesses, have the same legal needs, so can offer tailored legal solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each client at any stage of life. We take a proactive approach to advising our clients, considering not just the immediate issue but looking holistically at the wider legal impact on our clients and their individual circumstances.
A client-centred approach
What sets Sweetman Law apart is our commitment to client care; a value instilled by Tony Sweetman and at the core of the firm’s philosophy. We believe that legal services should be accessible, affordable and delivered with each individual, business or family in mind. By taking the time to build strong relationships, we ensure that our services meet each client's specific needs.
Sweetman Law – your trusted legal partner
Choosing the right law firm can make all the difference in the outcome of your legal matters. Contact us to schedule a consultation in our new premises, and discover how we can assist with your legal needs.
Level 1, 25 Anzac Street, Takapuna
09 475 6410
sweetmanlaw.co.nz
info@sweetmanlaw.co.nz
Alongside you.
Brandon Prinsloo, Meg Shah, Tony Sweetman, Casey Smith, Sarah Hilhorst and Ryan Hyde
Banking on digital
By Christine Young
North Shore resident Shane Marsh returned from two years in Singapore, and in 2021 created quite a stir in fintech circles with the announcement of the formation of dosh, New Zealand’s first digital wallet. More recently, the stir became a storm as the now-threeyear-old upstart wanna-be bank announced it was applying for a banking licence. Christine Young talks to Shane about just how he and business partner (and fellow Singapore returnee) James McEniery developed their business.
Shane is now a fully-fledged convert to the Devonport lifestyle, but grew up in Hamilton and attended Forest Lake primary school, where he was a student in one of the country’s first bilingual units. The principal, he says, was a visionary, giving all students the opportunity to study te reo Māori for a couple of hours every day. Though Shane was fluent by the end of his primary years, that fluency was lost as he progressed to intermediate and secondary school. What he gained, however, was “an early insight around doing things differently and invoking and seeding change, a sense of driving change by taking action”.
We do big moves because we’re trying to invoke big change in the banking industry.
He went on to Waikato University, taking degrees in law and management (majoring in economics accounting). He’s maintained his connection to the university, been an ambassador for the country’s first fintech degree at Waikato Uni, and this year lectured to the first intake of students, telling his story and talking about developing the skills needed to get into the industry.
Post-university, on his OE, he worked for AOL (America Online), one of the original digital internet/broadband companies, “where my digital passion started”. On one occasion, in the early days of Facebook (and others), the entire staff spent a day
brainstorming about social networking; “It was the very early infancy of a world global industry. I got a real sense of digital being a game changer going forward.”
Back in New Zealand he and wife Lisa settled in Devonport, where their three children have been born and where he won a job with ANZ. Having worked in the telecommunications and digital worlds, his banking career now kicked off.
But Shane and Lisa still had itchy feet and after 11 years with ANZ in New Zealand, an opportunity to take a permanent role with ANZ in Singapore was too good to pass up.
The family enjoyed two years of the Singapore lifestyle before Covid hit. The Singapore government implemented some of the strictest lockdown conditions anywhere in the world and by October 2020, they had had enough, decided it could get worse and made the call to return to New Zealand.
Friend and fellow expat James McEniery was similarly leaving his job in Singapore to return to Auckland. Over a beer before they left Singapore, they discussed what each would do on their return, and began to talk about advanced banking apps they’d become familiar with in Singapore. New Zealand,
Shane Marsh, Devonport-based co-founder of dosh
they agreed, was falling behind the rest of the world from a banking perspective. They immediately adjourned to the kitchen, looked up the New Zealand Companies Office and registered a company: MCA Investments (a name derived from a WhatsApp group of their friends, with absolutely no banking associations).
“The second thing you need,” says Shane, “is a brand name.”
Singapore at that stage (as all hotels were closed to international travellers) had allowed ‘daycations’ for locals. “I sat on the sun lounger going through the urban dictionary searching for names associated with money, and came across dosh.” In inimitable Shane style, he promptly searched the trademark register, found dosh was not taken and registered it. The new business was ready to go.
On their return to New Zealand in early 2021, Shane and James deserted their corporate careers and became the sole fulltime employees of a financial services company that had yet to discover exactly what it could do or what would fly in the local market, and needing substantial finance (as is the wont of fintech companies) to get under way.
“We were supported by our families,” says Shane. “We went for a year with no income –with the belief that we could build something no one had built in New Zealand.”
“We literally had no idea how to raise money,” he confesses, nor even how much they needed to raise. They told their somewhat sceptical lawyer that they were aiming for $500,000. A month later they returned to her office having raised $1.1 million, from outside investment, and friends and North Shore locals.
They were determined to be first in the market. Shane is nothing if not confident in putting himself out there, and before dosh was even properly under way, he wrote a press release saying dosh would be the first digital wallet in New Zealand. He was astounded (and delighted) when the press release was picked up by the New Zealand Herald, and by Newstalk ZB. Even more delighted when investors with international experience approached them on the back of the mention of dosh’s need to raise money.
“I believe if you do things,” he says, “you can never really know what outcomes [the actions] will deliver. If you don’t do things, you will never know.”
What we do know is that dosh now offers savings accounts “with zero fees”, a dosh Visa card, and personal loan facilities – and has aspirations to offer home loans before the end of this year. We also know that dosh’s impudence and the credibility of its founders resulted in a $5 million seed raise when they went out to the market for a second round of investment. “At the time it was New Zealand’s largest seed raise,” says Shane proudly.
James
“We do big moves because we’re trying to invoke big change in the banking industry.”
The truly big move is to earn a banking licence. These big plays are backed, Shane adds, by broader support. “There’s widespread agreement between the Commerce Commission, the RBNZ [Reserve Bank of New Zealand] and the government that there is a lack of competition in the banking market. New providers are required to bring new solutions.
We’ve spent three years building a future bank; a digital-only bank, with no branches, no old tech and no [frontline] staff.
“We’ve spent three years building a future bank, a bank that digital natives, who don’t want to meet a bank manager, will use; a digital-only bank, with no branches, no old tech and no [frontline] staff.”
But don’t confuse digital with cashless, he warns. Dosh’s customers have access to cash through ATMs, and digital banking is a not the same thing as digital cash. “We are about having a bank operating on the latest technology, that doesn’t have branches and is therefore lowest cost.”
Right now, he says, AI is making huge developmental strides. “It feels like the early stages of the internet. In the next ten years there will be radical advances in AI, and dosh is in the best place to bring the benefits of AI to the banking industry,” he contends, noting
that as a smaller, more agile player, dosh can move faster than the large banks with layered corporate decision-making.
The mention of AI might strike tremors in the hearts of some customers, but dosh’s target audience has a preference for using digital and for the best technology, and are accepting of the value of AI. Rather than put a rigid age range on his customers, Shane says it’s more about being on the best technology. “Our brand is about being different, youthful, and playful [dosh’s website language epitomises that] while retaining core elements in building trust and credibility.”
As for the banking licence, which he believes will take a minimum of 12 months to achieve, Shane acknowledges that “without a licence it will be difficult to compete with [existing] banks head on, and the opportunity to achieve real change won’t be realised…. It’s a challenge we believe we can meet.”
Shane admits that “our story has been a crazy journey” with some real highs and lows en route. An early ‘high’ was Visa picking up his first news release and issuing it to its global network. Bingo – instant credibility by association.
Since then, Shane and James have built a market challenger with sufficient credibility to grow rapidly in terms of both transactions and and savings. Dosh is supported by some big players in the market and has twice won a coveted Canstar award: in 2023 the Innovation Excellence Award for its Doshback Rewards programme, following up on its 2022 Innovation Award as the “stand-out innovative financial product” to launch in New Zealand over the past year.
They haven’t achieved any of this on their own, Shane points out. “It takes family support, as the family comes on a journey with you. And it takes the support of a ‘village’: the industry, regulators, government, investors, and the community that takes up your offer. Without those things you won’t get change.”
Watch this space; dosh and ditgital-only banking have arrived.
Vinnies celebrates first year anniversary at Barrys Point Road
This October, the Vinnies shop at 25 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna proudly celebrates its first anniversary, while the Glenfield store located at 8/75 Ellice Road marks its tenth anniversary, celebrated earlier in July. Both milestones highlight the enduring commitment of the St Vincent de Paul Society's mission to serve those in need, guided by the core values of compassion, service and social justice.
The Vinnies shops play a crucial role in funding the Society’s charitable programmes. Proceeds from the sale of donated goods directly support services such as emergency relief, housing assistance and the distribution of food parcels to vulnerable individuals and families in our community.
… we are incredibly grateful to those in the community who have spread the word and supported us.
Offering a wide selection of second-hand clothing, furniture and household items at affordable prices, Vinnies helps make essential goods accessible to those with limited financial means. Every dollar spent at Vinnies directly supports local communities, funding essential programmes and services. When you shop at Vinnies you’re not just buying a product, you’re making a positive impact in someone’s life.
Additionally, by promoting the donation and reuse of preloved items, the shops contribute to reducing waste and fostering environmentally sustainable practices. Shopping at Vinnies is not only about finding great bargains, but also about making sustainable choices. Every purchase contributes to a circular economy, helping reduce waste and promoting an eco-friendlier lifestyle.
More than just retail spaces, Vinnies shops also foster a sense of community. Volunteers and staff work together to support charitable
activities while providing a welcoming space for people to connect. Their stores are known for friendly staff and a warm community vibe. They welcome everyone to come in for a chat, browse the clothes racks, and enjoy a welcoming shopping experience where everyone is valued.
The passionate volunteers are the heart of Vinnies shops, and make every shopping experience special. Their dedication ensures the best service and the careful curation of quality items. The Vinnies shops also offer invaluable opportunities for volunteers to gain experience, develop skills and promote social inclusion, making a real difference in the lives of many. Over the past year, the North Auckland Vinnies shops have been blessed with over 13,000 volunteer hours contributed between 2023 and 2024. "This achievement would not have been possible without the generosity of dedicated volunteers, who give their time and passion to the cause. We are extremely thankful and feel truly blessed," says Janet Lee, manager at Vinnies North Shore. She continues, "Our first year here in Takapuna has had its challenges, as establishing a new location always does. However, we are incredibly grateful to those in the community who have spread the word and supported us. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our donors, we've received an abundance of high-quality, pre-loved goods for which we are deeply thankful."
As Vinnies celebrate their milestones and achievements, they welcome anyone interested in volunteering to join them in making a difference. Drop by either North Shore shops and speak to the manager about how you can get involved. For more information, contact Janet Lee at janetlee.vinnies@gmail.com at St Vincent de Paul Society, Vinnies North Auckland.
Vinnies Takapuna 25 Barrys Point Road 09 482 3017
takapuna.vinnies@gmail.com
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-4pm, Sat 10am-2pm
Fashion & style
We’ve got plenty of stylish options for fashion and interiors on the Shore and this month, we’re shining a light on some of our local trend-setters and businesses offering fashion, homewares and advice, perfect for updating your wardrobe and home this season.
Quirk and cool with Ben from Federation
Ben Dundas is the director of iconic North Shore streetwear brand, Federation, jointly owned with his wife, Jenny. Established in 2000, Federation is known for mixing elements of design with quality construction. The brand loves illustration as much as design and function, resulting in seriously cool gear. Ben lets Channel Mag in on some of the details of their collection and working 12 months ahead.
Channel Mag: What’s the highlight of your current collection for you and why?
Ben Dundas: The new spring range that has just dropped has some fun products. For the girls, the Bowie dress and tops have been a winner, the fabrication and colours are amazing and fit so nicely! For the guys, the Waffle stories have been rad; again, the simple fabrication with subtle detail really works, in some fun colours. The stand-out print across both genders is the edge print and it comes in tees, crops, even a tee dress;
the print placement has made it pretty effortless to wear.
In terms of trend forecasting, what do you think will be popular? How do you make those decisions for the business?
Yeah, it’s a challenge. With the business model the way we run it we are developing products nine to 12 months ahead, so forecasting can be hard. We are really working on the products and styles we really believe in.
How would you define your own style?
We are a premium streetwear brand that loves to juxtapose fashion with a bit of crazy!
Do you have any people or brands you look to for style inspiration?
Inspiration comes from everywhere and is always changing so it’s hard to define anything in particular.
Looking forward to the next few months, what can people expect to see in store?
etc., so more products that reflect summer are dropping, not to mention exciting little projects like our skateboard art classes that run in the school holidays.
It costs nothing to find out.
We are excited about warmer days, more sun
federation.co.nz
Ben Dundas
What’s stylish in bedding, interiors and the home with Michelle
Michelle Willcocks is an in-house stylist for Shore-based interiors business Wallace Cotton. She lives in sunny Whangaparaoa with her husband, and they are lucky to be surrounded by a wide network of extended family and friends. Michelle says they are slowly renovating and plan to create their dream home together which means lots of work on the weekends. The original home was built in the '80s so there’s lots to do but worth it! Michelle has always had a passion for interiors and design and when she’s not working on her own home, she’s helping friends and family with their projects.
Channel Mag: What products in your store come to mind when you think fashion and style? What do you think will be popular and why?
Michelle Willcocks: With spring here, and summer fast approaching, I’m noticing
Craving fashion with Jude
Jude Turner is a Channel Mag regular and owner of Crave, a beautiful fashion, homewares and gift store in Birkenhead. Jude is married to Don and mother to Avery, David and their dog, Max. With a background in marketing, PR and fundraising, Jude loves what she does and took the time to share some of the stylish offerings at Crave this season including the stunning Stella and Gemma range.
Channel Mag: What products in your store come to mind when you think fashion and style? What do you think will be popular and why?
Jude Turner: We are in the midst of receiving our fabulous summer collections right now and I am loving everything linen. It’s such a fantastic fabric for breathability, travelling and looking great. We have some cool sets and pretty dresses, both of which can take you from the office to an outing.
people embracing soft tones and crisp materials for their homes and wardrobes. At Wallace Cotton, the return of our ever-popular Bayside duvet, featuring a simple stormy blue stripe on a fresh white background, has been a best-seller. It’s a great way to add a subtle injection of colour into the home. Stripes are a classic for a reason, and I’m also seeing checks fly off the shelves. In my opinion, you can’t go wrong with either! We have just released a beautifully textured white duvet called Claremont, which was one of my favourites to style in our spring journal. It’s a fresh take on a seersucker fabric which gives it texture; it is best styled simply with relaxed white linen sheets to allow the stunning fabric to shine. When considering interior style and fashion, cotton stands out for its versatility, breathability and comfort. It’s a staple because it’s always in demand – and washes up well!
How would you define your own style?
This is a tricky question as it is forever evolving! I love my home comforts and surrounding myself with things that bring me joy, so this is in the forefront of my design choices. I will look at each home and its surroundings and determine what design style suits best and will never incorporate more than two blends of styles as this can make things confusing! This concept can be boiled down to a design style called ‘Transitional’. It is the combining of traditional and contemporary, old with new. This design style is encapsulated by modern, soft-neutral colour palettes which are combined with touches of pastel or earthy hues. Contrast is created through use of various texture or tones.
How would you define your own style?
I am really trying to pare back my style to be more minimalist and pair plain colours. However I love a fresh print so there’s always an internal battle raging! I would describe my style as put-together.
Do you have any people or brands you look to for style inspiration?
I have recently discovered the French brand Rosaé Paris and love its effortless elegance. Closer to home, I have always been an admirer of Kate Sylvester and am adding a couple of her pieces to my wardrobe before she closes her label down.
Looking forward to the next few months, what can people expect to see in store?
An amazing array of new gifts perfect for Christmas gifting, lots of wonderful summer accessories from brightly coloured drink coolers to our popular inflatables, ever-stylish handbags and of course, our renowned Christmas fragrance collections. cravehome.co.nz
Do you have any people or brands you look to for style inspiration?
I love watching Architecture Digest and looking at the amazing grand scale designs across the globe. Some of my favourite celebrity homes include Kacy Musgraves, Jennifer Garner and Chrissy Metz. I love anything that feels wholesome and cosy so someone like the incredible Donna Hay, with her classic and timeless style of home décor and food, is always inspiring to me and she always makes me want to be prepared for when guests come to visit!
Finally, one of my colleagues recently reminded me about Joana Gaines and her phenomenal growing empire/brand, Magnolia, which is based in Wichita, Kansas. She creates some gorgeous homewares, as well as gorgeous tablescapes and impeccable food! She is well worth a follow.
Looking forward to the next few months, what can people expect to see in store?
In the coming months, customers can look forward to our newly launched bundles, featuring beautifully curated bedding sets for every bed and budget, and a 15% discount when purchased together. We’re seeing a strong trend of blues and greens transitioning from spring into summer, and our popular Christmas collections, which seem to sell out faster each year. I’m particularly excited about the new daywear options from Wallace Cotton, we have some beautifully comfortable loungewear pieces at the moment. Then later in the year we will be releasing some stunning new daywear in a variety of colours and fabrics. Now I just need to decide which I’ll be wearing on Christmas day!
wallacecotton.com
Jude Turner
Michelle Willcocks
Talking design with Kirsten Ford
Kirsten Ford is an interior designer with a reputation for creating homes with style and edge. She lives in Belmont with her husband, children and two spoilt dogs. Kirsten talks about why she’s so passionate about interior design and delves deep into trend forecasting.
Channel Mag: Why do you love what you do?
Kirsten Ford: I love creating spaces and homes that are a reflection of my clients, spaces that echo what they value, remind them of their journey and provide them with the best possible backdrop to live their lives. Every project I work on is a custom design for each family’s personality and lifestyle.
The most rewarding thing is seeing them love living in their new spaces, and showing them off to family and friends too.
In terms of trend forecasting, what will be popular in interior design and how will you weave that into your work?
During the pandemic, there was a need comfort and practical casualness. We’re now seeing a trend towards more formality in our style, more detail and more luxury. Not quite a maximalist style but definitely a departure from the minimalism seen in previous years. We’re expressing ourselves with careful layering of textures and shapes, rather than through pattern and print, a more grownup, polished style. I’m calling it modern maximalism. The Scandi trend of painting every wall white with blonde timber floors is definitely dated. Spaces are warmer, richer, more colourful and personalised. It’s fusing of fashion and interiors where pattern, colour and texture create a more bespoke, opulent and slightly eclectic look. We are gravitating towards rich, warm neutrals, much earthier shades than the cool, crisp tones we’ve favoured for years. Whites are creamier, accented with all shades of taupe, caramel and brown. As we become more confident and expressive with colour, we’re seeing a trend towards accents which are bolder and more saturated, particularly rich reds (in cherry, berry, wine and magenta tones) and all shades of green especially ocean, leaf, forest and the brightest Kelly green. And for the not so bold, colour and pattern can be layered on top of white walls and neutral floors.
How would you define your own style and where do you look to for style inspiration?
I favour a blend of contemporary and classic styles, with attention to stylish detailing and always a little bit of edge. I am constantly
inspired by European design, which is often tied to a sense of the ‘classic’, but it still has a definite flair; the mix of beautiful historical features in European homes paired with clean, sleek modern lines. This creates a look that is sophisticated, layered and unique. Ultimately, providing spaces with a real story behind them. Luxe interiors don’t always have to be new and shiny. Finishes and pieces with a patina and a history create a unique and very personal style. I’m always inspired by travel. Travel is a never-ending source of history, colour, styles, details and ideas. And I will be forever inspired by fashion! Fashion and interiors are completely intertwined – and I am endlessly inspired by fashion silhouettes, textures, colours and detail and mood.
Looking forward, what can people expect to see from you and how can they work with you?
I’m looking forward to continuing to help clients create special homes that uniquely reflect their families, their passions and lifestyles. Whether that be in a contemporary new homes, an apartment or heritage villas. While working with a professional interior designer may seem like a big move, it can ultimately deliver a result far beyond what you imagined. We’ll create a vision for your home and then use our experience, knowledge and trusted supply partners to bring that to life. Rather than being overwhelmed and stressed, our clients can spend more time getting excited about their dream home! Reach out through email or a phone call to see how we can work with you – whether it’s providing quick, concise design direction for project or a complete end-to-end design solution for a new build or major renovation.
kfdinteriors.com
Kirsten Ford
Matt Mimmack has 18 years experience in commercial real estate on the North Shore and across Auckland. During that time he has been involved in many of the Shore’s large transactions – both leasing and selling commercial property. He constantly achieves outstanding results for his customers and is recognised as a leader in the North Shore and wider Auckland market. Matt is a Director and Shareholder of Bayleys Commercial North Shore and has built an impressive career with the firm on the Shore. He has been Bayleys North Shore’s top commercial agent for the last seven years. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with Matt for a chat during September.
A chat with Matt Mimmack…
AIDAN BENNETT: How did you end up choosing a career in commercial real estate with Bayleys?
MATT MIMMACK: It was by chance really. I was previously in the health sector and wanted a change. Mum was a huge influence after being an extremely successful residential agent on the North Shore. However I wanted my weekends clear of open homes, so commercial seemed a really good fit.
You have now been with Bayleys for almost two decades; you clearly enjoy what you do and being part of the impressive Bayleys business?
It is an exciting industry to be a part of. Every day brings new opportunities, and it is a highly competitive.
I get a lot of satisfaction from assisting my clients with their requirements to get them the best possible outcome available.
I always say you are a brand within a brand, but there is no bigger engine in New Zealand Real Estate than Bayleys.
Your own family has a strong Shore heritage, I understand in the Bays? Tell us about that heritage and your own young family who are growing up fast.
I have always lived and breathed the North Shore, being brought up with my sister Sara in Browns Bay and schooling through Murrays Bay Primary, Rosmini College and Kristin. We had a tight knit family with mum and dad being only children, dad working in shipping and mum of course in Real Estate.
I played a lot of sport which took me places earlier in life and then I met my beautiful outgoing wife Helen at Bayleys and we are raising our kids Ava (12) and Jack (7) in Campbells Bay.
What do you love about the Shore and the lifestyle?
What’s not to like. It’s the friendships, the community, the safety and the coastline. It’s a great place to bring up a family.
I understand you were a pretty handy cricketer for East Coast Bays? Are you still involved in any competitive sport these days?
Yeah, I loved my cricket and developed a lot of good friendships throughout the years playing. I still get down to watch the boys and play a bit of golf, but now I’m on the sidelines watching and supporting my kids playing who are giving me a run for my money now.
Having been in the industry for 18 years and starting out just prior to the GFC, you obviously understand the market and its economic changes. Do you see opportunities in the current challenging market?
There are always opportunities to help people and businesses, whether they are in growth mode or downsizing. We have been through a lot of changes, especially in the last four years so I see more stabilisation in the markets in the short term. Opportunities will be through more commercial land coming available west and north and future-proofing your assets long-term to accommodate green star requirements and automation for businesses.
What excites you about current opportunities in the commercial property space on the Shore?
Industrial real estate has been the rock star of commercial property with consistent growth, and I don’t expect this to change.
Pleasingly, we are seeing more transactions occurring in the office and retail sector with some owners really targeting improvements to these spaces for customer experience and staff enjoyment.
What interesting properties do you have available at the moment?
My passion is industrial real estate. I have an awesome listing in Albany with three industrial buildings on the one site which has generated strong interest, as well as a brand new industrial investment in Hobsonville with IAG as the tenant. Both offerings are highly desirable and you would be proud to own them.
Complete the following… At the end of a busy business period I love having a well-earned break with a family holiday at…
We love venturing down to Ohope Beach for a holiday which is where my father-in-law lives for a bit of fishing and golfing. I’m very loyal and proud of my upbringing and family. So spending any time with family, be at home or away is where I’m most relaxed.
Contact Matt Mimmack, Email: matt.mimmack@bayleys.co.nz or Phone 021 229 5878. Visit: bayleys.co.nz
Matt Mimmack
Matt Mimmack and family
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
Supporting our local hospital takes a community!
“It takes a village to raise a child,” is a well-known proverb that infers it takes an entire community to ensure our children grow up in a safe and healthy environment. I have been thinking about how the same sentiment can be applied to the love, generosity and goodwill of people in the community who are passionate about supporting their local hospital so the best care can be provided for everyone.
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
What do you as a vendor need to disclose when selling your property?
Vendors are required to disclose certain information when selling a property to ensure transparency and avoid legal complications. It is in the vendor's best interest to be upfront about key issues when listing with their agent.
The community came together in support of the hospital Healing Garden project and every day it’s making a real difference for patients, visitors and staff. The resounding feedback is that the space is calming, tranquil and uplifting. We’re also thrilled to say that the Healing Garden has just won a Platinum Award at the prestigious International Biophilic Design Awards. Biophilic design explains the instinctive positive response to nature. The judges said the project was outstanding, as it captured the essence of connections to nature and how they are prioritised within a building to benefit the wellbeing of people. Thank you once again to everyone who donated to the Healing Garden – you made it possible.
Golf Day to support mothers and babies at North Shore Hospital
If you fancy a round of golf with a group of friends or colleagues, join us for the annual Drive 4 Life Charity Golf Day on Thursday 5 December at Waitematā Golf Course. This annual event has been hosted by the North Shore Rotary Club for over 20 years to support our local hospital. This year funds raised will enable new technology and equipment for the maternity and special care baby unit. Ambrose teams of four, great fun, food and festivities. If you’re interested, please reach out to: info@wellfoundation.org.nz
It takes a village to support our hospital – thank you!
Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere hospitals.
Well Foundation, 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
One of the most important things to disclose is any known defects in the property. This could include structural problems, leaky building issues, or significant repairs that have been done or are still required. If the property has been involved in weather tightness claims (for leaky homes), the vendor should disclose this, as it can affect the property’s value.
It’s also important to provide accurate information about the property’s title and any restrictions or easements that may affect it, such as shared driveways or right-of-way access. Any unconsented building work or alterations must be disclosed, as buyers will need to know if any parts of the property do not meet legal requirements. Also, understand the importance of the flats plan being up to date.
Transparency builds trust and can prevent issues from arising later in the sale process.
If there are zoning changes or planned developments in the area that may impact the property, such as new roads or construction, vendors should inform potential buyers. Additionally, information about flooding risks or whether the property is in a high-risk natural disaster area should be disclosed.
Although vendors are not legally obligated to volunteer all information, misrepresenting or withholding material facts could lead to legal consequences. Transparency builds trust and can prevent issues from arising later in the sale process, benefiting both the vendor and the buyer. If unsure, you should seek legal advice.
Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is an active Milford Cruising Club member. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Master's Degree in business and administration and speaks English and Chinese fluently.
Yan Davies 燕
021 585 590
yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz
Licensed under the REA Act 2008
Dr Janak De Zoysa in the hospital Healing Garden
By Ellie Brown
Get involved!
Teens, young adults… Wondering how to fill up that resume and stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs? Are you mulling over how to begin to network? The adage of, 'it's who you know, not what you know' is truer now, more than ever. Do you want to know how to get involved with social causes that speak to you? Are you itching to connect with like-minded people but don't know where or how to begin? Volunteering is the answer.
Getting involved in volunteering is not only an excellent opportunity to give back to your local community and to forge local connections, but is also an invaluable way to kick start and boost that CV, and get your foot in the door for future opportunities past the safety net of school or university. Volunteering offers an invaluable opportunity to gain transferable skills which will serve you well as you prepare to enter the intimidating corporate world.
Although you may write it off as too time-consuming or a dull use of your time, volunteering can be the exact opposite! The range of opportunities out there is endless, and the majority of them are super engaging, too. You can even rally your friends to make that difference and heighten your social awareness together. Volunteering doesn’t have to be time-consuming, either. Many positions are a one-off (such as for an event), seasonal (ie tree-planting) or non-committal.
Here on the North Shore, there is a plethora of rewarding volunteering opportunities at your fingertips. As a wider area, we are host to many fabulous existing charities and social projects, which rely on future volunteers (like yourself!) to give it a try.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Senior day centre/retirement home and/or gardening help. Pop into local rest homes and retirement villages to ask how you can be of assistance.
2. Harbour Hospice, Vinnies, Red Cross, Salvation Army, St John's or other charity retail store volunteering – perfect for all the avid thrift shoppers among us!
3. Fundraising and community outreach –think SPCA, Daffodil Day and Pink Ribbon Day, to name but a few.
4. Community event staffing volunteer work. Want to experience a local event but don’t necessarily have the funds to pay the entry fees to go? Enquire about volunteering
at the event. I'm doing exactly this for Devonport Rotary's 'Homes of Devonport' tour coming up on Friday 1 November.
5. Auckland Libraries. Ask the friendly staff at your local library what community events and activities they run, and whether they would welcome volunteer support.
6. Habitat for Humanity provides homes for New Zealanders and makes them habitable. Volunteers are at the heart of Habitat’s mission; all it takes is a willingness to get involved and lend a helping hand.
7. Women’s Refuge keeps Kiwi women and children safe. Its biggest national fundraiser is NZ Sculpture OnShore, held every other year right here on our doorstep at Fort Takapuna. The amazing 2023 event raised a whopping $350,000 for Women's Refuge NZ. How could you help out with this amazing event? Why not ask?
8. Mentorship. Enquire through local primary or secondary schools, community centres and local organisations such as Youthmix, to find out if you could volunteer as a mentor to teens and other young adults.
9. Tree planting and environmental conservation efforts. Contacting your local Rotary club for this one is a great place to start!
These are just a few ideas to start you off.... Do your own research to find out what opportunities are out there that float your personal boat. There are so many volunteering positions available, with
community groups and charities crying out for more volunteers and input – the opportunities are endless! There is a position of interest in the volunteering sphere for everyone and countless opportunities to develop or practise any special skills or areas of interest, such as social media management, performing arts, children and early education, environmental conservation, healthcare, animal care…. the list goes on. And above all, in the environment we young adults find ourselves in, where connectivity and community involvement seem harder than it used to be back in the 'good old days', all it takes is a little effort and a call, email or quick visit, and you may just find your volunteering niche. It'll do you just as much good as the folks you help!
So, what are you waiting for? Whether you grab some mates or decide to fly solo, take the step to get yourself out into your community and make a difference. You won’t regret it, and you never know what doors it might open for you.
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 Head of Languages wins ISNZ Honours Award
Kristin Head of Languages Gabriela Maldonado has been recognised with an Independent Schools of New Zealand (ISNZ) Honours Award at the recent ISNZ Annual Conference in Christchurch. Gabriela received the award for Teaching and Professional Development, a fantastic recognition for a very dedicated staff member.
The school's nomination was supported by members of her faculty who recognised how Gabriela has shifted the focus of language teaching at Kristin. She brings her experience as a classroom practitioner, sharing clear and insightful ideas and vision with the rest of the faculty.
Gabriela has supported faculty members to improve their skills in concept-based learning, using examples from her own practice to demonstrate a practical approach to embedding these new skills. She has also been instrumental in bringing mindfulness to the classroom, seeing positive impacts in her students.
She has built a strong culture of celebrating languages and different cultures throughout the school and the wider school community, which is shown during ‘International Celebration Week’, a key initiative that has been running since she started as head of faculty which has the aim of showcasing and celebrating our diverse cultural backgrounds. In her time as head of languages, through her leadership of the faculty and teaching, Kristin has seen a rise in students pursuing language learning as they see its value in life far beyond schooling.
“Intercultural understanding and the ability to navigate a complex world are fundamental skills in today’s global world that are central in the language classroom,” says Gabriela.
Gabriela has also been a key player in working with our Spanish debating teams, competing in the STANZA National Spanish Debating competition, which our Kristin team has brilliantly won the last two years in a row. “Gabriela is an exceptional
classroom practitioner, mentor, leader and friend whose contribution to the Kristin community has been deservedly recognised with this award,” says Senior School Principal David Boardman.
Netball girls make history
Our Kristin Premier Girls’ Netball team made history last month with a thrilling 26 - 25 grand final win over Westlake Girls' High School. Winning the Premier Grade Championship for the first time, the team showed incredible courage and determination to fight back from a large deficit (11 goals) early in the first half. The crowd support for the girls from the Kristin netball community was massive and helped lift them throughout the game, as well as some stellar performances from the entire team. Well done, girls!
Dance in the Dove delivers
The annual Dance in the Dove concert recently delivered a dazzling showcase of our talented dancers at Kristin. Held in the Dove Theatre, four sold-out shows featured students from across the whole school and an impressive range of styles, including jazz, contemporary, lyrical,
K-pop, Latin and Siva. With dynamic lighting and an enthusiastic audience, the atmosphere was electric.
The success of this event not only underscores the strong support from our community but also highlights the growing reputation of dance at
Kristin School. The performances celebrated curriculum and co-curricular achievements, showcasing students' dedication and hard work across all year levels and dance styles. We are incredibly proud of our dancers and their commitment to excellence.
Music and Orchestrations Adapted and Arranged by
on the 2003
Conn Book, Music and Lyrics by
Kristin Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez
exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia).
Lindsay Anderson
Myrna
Based
Disney/Pixar film Finding Nemo written by Andrew Stanton, Bob Peterson, David Reynolds and directed by Andrew Stanton.
performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia
Book Adapted by
Mountain bike hat trick
Westlake Girls High School mountain bikers concluded the Auckland Schools Cross Country series with strong results, defending their Auckland titles for the third year. Astyn Nasmith was the Under 14 champion, with her sister Kaylan as runner-up. In the Under 17 Girls Talia Hosking placed third and Stella Beale fourth. Three riders will compete in the national championships in Christchurch this October.
ICGS Symposium
The 'On Educating Girls' symposium in September was a resounding success and a significant coup for Westlake Girls as the first school in New Zealand to host an event for the International Coalition of Girls' Schools. This prestigious occasion provided staff an invaluable opportunity to engage with leading thinkers and educators in girls' education. The excitement was palpable as inspiring speakers shared their insights with delegates from New Zealand and abroad,
making it a truly global event.
The school fizzed with energy, and attendees were highly impressed by both the school's facilities and the symposium's content. Delegates also commended the students who assisted during the event for their maturity, enthusiasm, and professionalism.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the thought-provoking discussions and engaging atmosphere.
The symposium was an excellent platform for exchanging ideas and showcased Westlake Girls' deep commitment to mana wāhine (female empowerment). It highlighted the school's dedication to empowering students with leadership opportunities and preparing them to succeed on the world stage.
This event reinforced Westlake Girls' ongoing commitment to excellence in girls' education and solidified our leadership in this vital field.
Astyn Nasmith Stella Beale
Kaylyn Nasmith
Talia Hosking
Head Prefect Candese Mamaia-Hellesoe
Oscars Evening
On Wednesday 28 August, the media studies department held its annual Oscars Evening, screening the best Year 12 narrative music videos and Year 13 short films, with awards in categories like best cinematography, acting, editing, and more. The competition was tough, but Best Year 12 Narrative Music Video went to Uratua Burnell, Kiera Miller, and Brittney Ye for ‘Without Me,’ and Best Year 13 Short Film went to Eva Johnston, Emma Natan, and Layla Whiteside for ‘Repeat.’ The dynamic evening concluded with a highlights reel of all the media students' work, celebrating their hard work and creativity. The evening was a great success, and it was lovely for the students’ families and friends to see the results of their hard work.
Golf Day nine-hole fundraiser
Don’t miss out – limited places! For more info, see here. westlakegirls.school.nz/fundraising-event-page/
for a career change or just graduated?
our in-school teacher training and champion mana wāhine with us!
Sarah Hooper shooper@westlakegirls school nz
Teacher Training Opportunities
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
Eva, Layla, Emma
was a day to celebrate
Three in a row for rugby champs
This is always the business end of the year for winter sport and what an incredible month it has been for our teams.
Our First XV is the North Harbour 1A Rugby champion for the third consecutive year, with a 41-27 victory over Rosmini in the final at North Harbour Stadium. Congratulations to the team, coaches, and all our supporters! Next up, the First XV is excited to defend their World Schools' Festival title in Abu Dhabi from 14-21 December.
Football Prems top team in Auckland
Our First XI Football team went into the last Auckland League game against Mt Albert Grammar knowing victory would secure the Premier title for the second year in a row. As it turned out the players provided some of the best play of the season and two outstanding goals from Carlos Takayama
meant the title was Westlake's with a 2-0 victory. The team went on to take 3rd place at Nationals and then win the Auckland Knockout Cup for the second year in a row.
*Our Second XI football team capped off a fantastic season after winning the Premier Reserve title for the first time since 2011.
Double delight for League team
Our League Prems capped off their season by being crowned National Development Champions. After three days of intense competition at Bruce Pulman Park from 6-8 September, our boys faced James Cook High
School in the final. Having narrowly beaten the same team in extra time earlier this year in the Auckland Senior A final, we knew it would be a tough match. In a tight last quarter, our boys showed remarkable tenacity by
holding their tryline for extended periods to secure an 18-6 victory. A special mention goes to Noah Jensen, who was named player of the match, and Kaawyn Patterson, who earned a spot in the New Zealand U18 team.
It
after our 1st XV Rugby team won the North Harbour 1A title with a 41-27 win over Rosmini College in the final.
Our 1st XI Football team have won the Auckland League and the Knockout Cup for the second year in a row.
Our League Prems after winning the National Development final.
Quinn Opuariki, Connor Pieters, Kaawyn Patterson, Whaea Clare Nasey and Noah Jensen after the final.
Choirs strike gold at Big Sing Finale
Eight of the 24 choirs at the Big Sing Finale won gold awards, and two of those were Westlake Boys choirs! Well done Voicemale, our premier boys' choir, and Choralation, our mixed Weslakes choir. For many people, Voicemale’s performance of 'Frobisher Bay' was a particular highlight! We’re hugely proud of the boys for their singing and behaviour.
Headmaster to take up new role
After 21 years at Westlake Boys - fourteen and a half of these as headmaster - Mr David Ferguson announced he would be leaving at the end of the year.
“I have so many happy memories of amazing things that I have seen, heard and felt during my time here,” he said.
“Being able to serve our boys and community has been an absolute honour and the highlight of my career. Our school is in good heart and is well placed to
Father Son Breakfast
continue to be one of the best schools in New Zealand. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity, I’ve loved it and I’m going to miss the boys, the job, the people and the school greatly. Leaving anything is hard, leaving a place you love is even harder.”
Mr Ferguson will be taking up a role as CEO of The Teachers’ Institute, an initiative he helped establish to train more quality teachers in Auckland.
America’s Cup at Westlake
Our students enjoyed spending the morning with their dads at our annual Father Son Breakfast on Thursday 29 August. Westlaker Alex O'Dowd, a former top-level cricket and rugby coach who is now head of performance development at the Blues was guest speaker. In his Q&A with Lance Dunne, he told our students to cherish the time spent with friends, family, and teachers, as these relationships often evolve into lifelong bonds and can open up new opportunities.
He also shared advice on trusting the process, preparing well, and dealing with adversity. We'd like to thank Alex for taking time out of his morning to join us.
On Monday 2 September, we were the first school in New Zealand to welcome the America’s Cup trophy. Students and staff took photos with the 'Auld Mug', and then we held a special assembly where our Te Puna students, led by Matua Johnny, performed a whakatau welcoming the taonga. Flinn Olsen, a premier sailor, spoke about the America’s Cup and its significance to New Zealand. With Westlakers like Dean Barker (1989) and current Team New Zealand cyclor Cam Webster (2012), the sailing event is close to our hearts.
Mr David Ferguson has been at Westlake Boys for 21 years.
Matz and Torr Beaman with dad Jarrod.
Preimer boys choir Voicemale perform 'Frobisher Bay'.
Assistant Principal Mr Paul Fordham with mum Mrs Sandra White.
Merit Badge Assembly
Last month we recognised our year 12 and 13 students at the annual Merit Badge Awards Assembly. A Merit Award recognises the substantial contribution a student has made to their co-curricular activity or sport. These students have performed with distinction, exhibiting excellent leadership and strong commitment.
This year we congratulated over 200 students who achieved a Merit Award. This included eight gold Merit Award winners who received a merit award in four or more individual co-curricular activities or sports. Congratulations to all these students.
Cactus Dance Company on top at Dance NZ Made
2024 has continued to be a fantastic year for TGS performing arts with our premiere dance company, Cactus, taking out top honours at the recent Dance NZ Made regional competition. The team placed first in their section and were named Open Team Champions, plus they had the highest score of all teams competing, which meant they also took home the biggest award of the
night: Overall Team Regional Champions. The team has worked incredibly hard this year and that preparation, combined with the stunning choreography of Cactus dance leaders Audrey Roberts, Samantha Lathwood and Heidi Cairncross, really set them apart. Teacher in charge of dance, Mrs Alana Grant, couldn't be prouder. "This team has gelled superbly this year, they have a
really positive energy and it shows when they perform. They deserve this recognition for all their hard work – they represented the Company and our school so well and I felt like the luckiest teacher in the room."
Focus on Academics: Mathematics
Mathematics students from Takapuna Grammar School have once again participated in several mathematics competitions and activities throughout the year. These include the NZ Mathematics Olympiad, the NZAMT Senior Maths Competition, the Otago Maths competition, the Australian Maths Competition, the Auckland Mathex and our very own and very noisy TGS Mathex competition. Participation in this diverse range of competitions is high and we actively encourage students to get involved. Mathematical activities such as these encourage collaboration, problem solving, lateral thinking, promote friendships with like-minded students and encourage a love of learning in a welcoming yet competitive environment.
Our success in these events is a consequence of hard work by students and staff throughout the year in weekly training sessions and Maths Club. Notable results were:
• Auckland Mathex competitions: all our teams did very well, scoring an average of 75 points. Our best result was Year 9 Team 1 which scored 95 points and came fifth. This was our best result for some years.
• Otago Junior Maths Competitions: Two students ranked in the top 30 in their year level in New Zealand. Nine students received distinction awards, and 11 students received merit awards.
• NZ Maths Olympiad: Mia Sheng and April Liang were invited into the second round for the NZ Maths Olympiad with nine students participating in the first round.
• Australian Maths Competition: Two students awarded with high distinction. Seven other students received distinction awards.
• Senior Maths Competition: We had four teams, and three individuals, participate to compete against other Auckland schools, to solve 15 problems in 90 minutes.
Rosmini takes first place in Kaupapa Pasifika
Rosmini College is thrilled to announce that Patrick Lemeki (Year 11) has secured first place in the Kaupapa Pasifika category at the NZQA Ringa Toi exhibition, which took place at Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington.
Ringa Toi is an annual showcase that highlights the artistic achievements of secondary school students, emphasising Toi Māori and Pacific arts at an excellence level. The exhibition features over 150 artworks
by 123 students from 45 secondary schools and kura.
The title of Patrick’s work is ‘Power to the People’ using the mediums of acrylic and oil paint. Patrick says his work is deeply rooted in his Tongan heritage and the powerful legacy of the Polynesian Panthers.
“I envisioned this piece as a mural that could visually communicate identity and culture, forging connections between people and
Students experience physics in action
Year 13 students enjoyed a hands-on and exciting experience at Rainbows End amusement park, where they had the opportunity to calculate and experience G forces firsthand on thrilling rides like the Stratosfear, Corkscrew Rollercoaster, and Fearfall. These rides highlighted the impact of steep drops, quick speeds, and sharp turns. More relaxed activities such as go-karts and bumper boats added a fun twist, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of physics concepts in action.
place. Through portraiture and mark-making, I sought to bring my vision to life in a way that reflects my experiences as a young Tongan male growing up on the North Shore of Auckland City. The theme of social justice is integral to my school, and with this artwork, I wanted to express a perspective that is both intensely personal and universally relevant, addressing the challenges faced by my community."
Rosmini rugby champions
The future of Rosmini rugby is looking bright after their U14 and U15 teams achieved a significant milestone by winning all 13 games this season and claiming top spot in their respective grades. This remarkable success is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and skill of both the players and coaches, setting a strong foundation for continued excellence in the future.
Patrick Lemeki
Rangitoto College’s amazing arts activities
Throughout Term 3, Rangitoto College’s stage was filled with talent as various arts activities took place. On 15 August, Rangitoto College held its annual Dance Showcase. Performed at the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna, Fuse was a fantastic evening to highlight the talent and hard work of our curricular and co-curricular dancers.
260 students took to the stage to showcase varying styles and dance genres with teacher and student choreography on show. Each piece in Fuse celebrated unity and diversity, exploring themes of identity, community, and the shared human experience through movement.
Our Arts Committee leaders put on two fantastic events this term: Battle of the Bands and Dancing with the Stars. In Battle of the Bands five student bands and a teacher band performed to a packed-out auditorium. These vibrant performances had our
packed auditorium singing and dancing to classic rock songs. Congratulations to Year 11 and 12 band Haestack who took out first place. Dancing with the Stars saw our talented Year 13 dance students paired with six teachers to create and perform dances to songs like 'Footloose', 'Waterloo', 'Million Dollar Baby', and more. It was great to see our teachers on stage and their personalities shine through in their performances. A massive thank you must go to the Year 13 dance students who expertly choreographed these dances and made our teachers feel comfortable on stage. Thank you to our outstanding Arts Committee which organised these incredible events and the teachers in charge, Leigh Meggison and Anna Taylor. Lastly, our textiles students from Year 9 to Year 13 wowed audiences at our annual Textiles Fashion Show. It was fantastic to see our students' innovative designs come to life and our student models walk down the runway.
Carmel College music highlights
Creativity is a vital part of students' learning at Carmel College. This year, the music department supported students in keeping their creative goals alive and honing their skills.
Our co-curricular music groups allow students to broaden their skills outside the classroom, whether it's by participating in our choirs, orchestra, bands, and other instrumental groups, or by developing their creativity in other areas like song writing
and music technology.
In Term 3, the Carmel Orchestra participated in the KBB Music Festival, hosted at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell. Entering the competitive category for the first time since Covid lockdowns, the orchestra earned an incredible bronze award. Other events the musicians have been a part of this year include The Big Sing at the Auckland Town Hall, the Upper Voices Festival held at Westlake Girls', Stations
of the Cross held at St Joseph's, and two evenings of solo and group performances.
Our annual Music Showcase, which showcases all our co-curricular groups, is a highlight of the year. This year, our musicians filled the theatre to capacity, selling more tickets than could fit. With extra seating provided, everyone was proud to put on a wonderful show, highlighting the talent and commitment of the students and staff involved.
St Josephs
KBB Award
Watch this year's performances via the QR code
Kapa haka group
Devonport in the 1920s, as seen by the 'Devonport / North Shore Gazette'
The weekly 'Devonport Gazette', renamed the 'North Shore Gazette' from 13 November 1924, is now available online. There are only two missing issues from 3 November 1921 to 1 August 1930, with the original hard copies held at Auckland Libraries. However, they have only 21 further issues after 1 August 1930 until 1948.
The 'Gazette' provides a wonderful local perspective on Devonport in the 1920s, and also to a lesser extent Takapuna and at times Northcote and Birkenhead. By 1930, there were just over 20,000 residents across both urban and rural North Shore. The 'Gazette' reached Devonport, Belmont, Bayswater, Takapuna, Milford, Glenfield, Northcote, Birkenhead, Birkdale and Chelsea.
Big issues at the time were transport (trams, buses and ferries, and a possible harbour bridge), water (at that time drawn from Lake Pupuke) and developing the electricity supply. The North Shore was already covered by newspaper reporters at the daily 'Auckland Star' and 'New Zealand Herald', along with those at the daily Auckland 'Sun' from 23 March 1927 to 20 September 1930 and the weekly 'New Zealand Truth'. Nevertheless, the 'Gazette' was still able to at times provide an additional local focus regarding sporting teams, Devonport and Takapuna Borough Council activities, obituaries for local Devonport residents (such as Alexander Alison of the Devonport Steam Ferry Co. in 1923) and general events in the area. It was also free of charge, as opposed to the other newspapers.
The issue for 2 October 1924 had just four pages, with the front page taken up with details of films at Devonport's Victoria cinema, next door to the office of the 'Gazette'. There were also three obituaries for Devonport locals, information from the Devonport-based Waitemata
By David Verran
Chamber of Commerce, a report from the last fortnightly meeting of the Devonport Borough Council, a report from the Devonport Orphans' Club, details of a dance organised by the Devonport Yacht Club and events at the Devonport Bowling Club. Note that at this time, the 'Gazette' was called the 'Devonport Gazette and Greater North Shore Advocate'.
The 'Gazette' relied on copy provided by the public and local organisations, as well as their own reporters, along with stories accessed from other newspapers. I had a closer look at the 12 June 1930 issue, and found the front-page article relating to the Takapuna Borough Council being sued over a failure to make a road was in fact taken exactly from the 'Sun' of 5 June 1930 (page 12). Similarly, the obituary for Louisa Ann Williamson (wife of Charles Williamson) was taken from the 'Sun' of 6 June 1930 (page 6).
What is of note is the number of advertisements for consumer goods and services offered on the city side, emphasising the shopping and employment connection by ferry between Devonport and the city. Most of the North Shore based advertisers were in Devonport. Advertisements for items of clothing, phonographs and radios, gas and electric stoves, motorbikes, cars (and related tyres and petrol) loom large in the 'Gazette'. On the other hand, advertisements for jobs, land sales and housing for either rent or sale featured instead in the daily newspapers.
The digitisation and online hosting were done by The Preserving Local History and Educational Trust at: preservinglocalhistory.recollectcms.com/
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.
When life changes, so should your will
Joy and her late husband, Eric, hadn’t been able to have children, much to their regret. However, they were very close to their god-children, acting as surrogate aunt and uncle to the four children. Sadly, ten years ago, Eric died suddenly after a massive heart attack. He and Joy had completed their wills a couple of years before he died, leaving everything to each other and then if they both died to a mixture of family members and charities.
After Eric’s death, Joy decided to update her will. In her current will the executor of her will would be Eric’s older brother. That was no longer appropriate as he was in his late 70s and would quite possibly die before Joy. She also wanted to re-allocate the gifts under will as this was something that she and Eric had discussed before his death.
Joy’s main asset was the family home which was now worth a substantial sum. She also had some cash in the bank which supplemented her pension. She decided that she would leave the house to her god-children on the basis that that was the lion’s share of her estate, and the balance would be divided between the three charities she and Eric had agreed upon. This meant that even if she spent all her cash, the god-children would receive the proceeds of the family home after it was sold. Joy also appointed her lawyer to act as the executor of her estate. She thought it was good to have someone neutral in the role, and as her lawyer would need to be involved if she died anyway, it just made sense.
having too much fun with her new life in the village and her lawyer never followed up with her. Two years after moving into the village, Joy had a stroke and ended up passing away with pneumonia in hospital a few days later.
The will specifically left them Joy and Eric’s family home. That had been sold when Joy had moved into the retirement village…
After three years Joy decided that she wanted to move to a retirement village. She was struggling to keep up with the grounds and the housework in her larger house. She had lots of friends who had moved into villages, and she was also feeling quite lonely without Eric and thought it would be great to have more company. One of her god-daughters took her to several retirement villages and she settled on one that she really loved. It had great facilities, and the people were very warm and friendly.
When Joy went to the lawyer to sign the papers for the sale of her home and the purchase of the occupation right to the apartment in the village, the lawyer suggested she review her will. Joy remembered the rough proportions between her god-children and the charities and said that she might look at it to make sure it was still ok. Now that the cost of buying in the village was less than her home, she would have more cash, but needed time to think it over.
Joy didn’t go back to the lawyer about updating her will as she was
Her god-children were sad but pleased for Joy that she had been able to enjoy her last few years even though it was without Eric. They were surprised however, when they read Joy’s will. The will specifically left them Joy and Eric’s family home. That had been sold when Joy had moved into the retirement village, but the wording remained the same – it didn’t relate to the sale proceeds of the home. The lawyer told them that as that asset no longer was in Joy’s estate they would receive nothing under her will and her entire estate would go to charity.
Joy’s god-children were not the greedy type, but this did not seem fair, and they didn’t think it would have been what Joy wanted. They decided to take their own legal advice. The lawyer they saw said that the best thing to do would be to try and negotiate with the charities, but that there was no guaranteed chance of success.
This story illustrates the importance of reviewing your will as well as getting good advice around the way that it’s drafted. People often think wills are simple documents, and they can be, but more often than not, they are being drafted to take into account complex situations and there is much thought and time that goes into the drafting process. Ensure that your will is up to date and says what you want to happen so that you don’t leave an expensive headache for your family.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
Do You Have A Valid Will?
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.
Cash management
Cash management is an ongoing process which should be proactively managed to get through these uncertain times. Cash is the oxygen for your business; without cash your business will not survive. There are a few strategies which a business could implement to help improve their overall cash-flow position.
These strategies include:
• Quicker invoicing and debtor collection. The traditional process of invoicing clients at the end of each month can delay debtor collection. Sending invoices promptly after a product has been delivered or a service performed can increase the likelihood of being paid earlier. Proactive debtor management will ensure outstanding debtors are appropriately managed and reduces the risk of it becoming a bad debt. Using online invoicing and payment processing tools can also help streamline the overall process.
• Improved inventory management. Poor inventory management ties up cash longer due to longer inventory turnover, which in turn increases the risk of having obsolete stock. Offering discounts on slow moving goods or obsolete stock will help turn inventory back into cash. When these goods have been sold out, consider whether you should continue to stock these goods in the future. Reducing the reordering quantities or moving towards indent ordering will minimise the amount of cash held up in inventory.
• Revisit your payment terms. Whether these are payment terms offered to your customers or payment terms you have with your suppliers, there may be an opportunity to explore prompt payment discounts, prepaying goods or services on better terms, or deferred payment options in particular circumstances. There may be scope to renegotiate payment terms or receive lower interest rates from suppliers.
• Dispose of surplus assets. You may have surplus assets, either in the warehouse or office, which you no longer require. Consider selling any surplus assets to realise cash immediately. Alternatively, consider leasing or renting any surplus assets out, or offer third party manufacturing services to increase the usage of partially utilised assets to generate additional cash flows.
• Diversify your client base. Having a small number of clients can increase the risk to your business if one of these clients starts having cash flow issues. Increasing the number of clients which you deal with can help spread this risk.
• Consider financing options. There are some financing products which can help with cash management. Trade finance, for example, is essentially a short-term loan (typically of up to six months) which allows a business to purchase goods. The purchased goods are used as security for the trade finance loan. The length of this trade finance loan is typically aligned to the average amount of time the business would take from the time of purchasing the goods to when the goods are sold and converted back into cash again. Invoice financing is another option which helps a business realise a percentage of an issued customer invoice value as cash now. The invoice financing lender will take security over that invoice as well as a small portion of the invoice value as its fee for this service.
Please note that not all options will suit your needs.
Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace
An effective cash-flow forecast will be set on a daily basis as this will give a business greater visibility over its cash cycle.
A robust and reliable cash-flow forecast should be incorporated into any cash management process. An effective cash-flow forecast will be set on a daily basis as this will give a business greater visibility over its cash cycle. This insight will help a business manage its short-term liquidity needs, including dealing with any cash deficits during the period. The starting point for creating a daily cash-flow forecast will be linking this to the business’s annual three-way budget. The annual budget will outline the business’s finance plan, when it expects to spend funds to achieve its strategic objectives, capital expenditure budget, and daily operations. By incorporating this information into the daily cash-flow forecast, management will be able to make more informed decisions and be able to proactively shape the future direction of the business.
Please get in touch with our advisory team at Bellingham Wallace if you would like to know more about improving your business’s cash management and how cash-flow forecasts can benefit you.
Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz
Aimee is a lawyer working in our Family and Employment teams. Aimee has a love for people and enjoys connecting with clients as she assists them to navigate some of the most vulnerable times in their lives. She firmly believes that any dispute should be approached pragmatically and with an open mind.
Restraints of trade
I’m looking for a new job, but my employment agreement includes a restraint of trade clause – what does that mean?
How many of us have accepted a job offer, received the employment agreement to peruse, only to notice that the agreement includes a restraint of trade clause? How many of us hold the belief that such clauses are not worth the paper they are written on? If you have held this belief, you are not alone. The legal position, however, is that restraint of trade clauses are enforceable, if it can be shown that the restraints are reasonably necessary.
What is a restraint of trade clause? Restraint of trade clauses are a common feature in employment contracts in New Zealand, designed to protect the business interests of employers by limiting the activities of former employees after their employment ends. These clauses aim to protect proprietary interests such as confidential information, trade secrets, and customer relationships. Restraint of trade clauses typically restrict former employees from engaging in specific activities for a defined period, such as working for a competitor, starting a competing business, or soliciting clients or employees from their previous employer.
Restraint of trade clauses in New Zealand generally fall into two main categories, namely non-compete and non-solicitation. Non-compete clauses aim to prevent an employee from working for a competitor or starting a competing business within a specified geographic area for a set period, while non-solicitation clauses aim to restrict the former employee from actively soliciting the employer’s clients, customers, or employees.
Are restraint of trade clauses automatically enforced? No. The onus is on the employer to pursue enforcement of a restraint of trade clause, if they have reason to believe that a former employee is in breach. The Employment Relations Authority or Employment Court will only enforce such a clause if the restraint is no wider than reasonably necessary in scope, duration and geographical limit. It is up to the employer to prove this.
In determining reasonableness, several factors are considered. These can include the employee’s role, as more senior employees who have access to sensitive information may justify stricter restraints. The duration of the restraint is also important, noting it is difficult to reasonably justify restraints that are longer in duration, for example exceeding six months. Any geographic restrictions imposed must also be relevant to the business’s actual area of operation. A restraint that spans the entire country may be considered unreasonable if the employer only operates in one region. The employer must also be able to show that the restraint is necessary to protect interests such as confidential information, client relationships, or proprietary knowledge.
When drafting restraint of trade clauses, employers should ensure they are reasonable and tailored to their specific role and business so to ensure they can be upheld. Employees should seek legal advice on these clauses before accepting any job offer, to understand the possible effect on any future career moves.
Schnauer & Co,
1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177
schnauer.com
What is truthful and what is not?
We are all aware of how the rise of fake news has taken over the world of global politics in the past decade and how generative AI can be used to create deep fake images of people, including movie-quality films, so how can we support our students in differentiating what’s real from what’s not?
‘Seeing is believing’ no longer stands up to scrutiny; our students will need to view everything with a critical eye while also relying on other skills and approaches to ensure they can be confident that what they are reading, watching, or listening to is, in fact, real. How can we, as educators, help them navigate this?
Ensure a broad knowledge and understanding: Fake news and false claims don’t exist in a vacuum. It is difficult to support a claim without a rationale supporting any evidence. News can be considered like one part of a puzzle. Without the other pieces, there is no pattern; we need related ideas to make sense of it. In 2016, it was reported that President Obama was planning to run for a third term in office. A deeper understanding would have shown that this is against the Constitution and, therefore, impossible due to the 22nd Amendment. What was stated was that he believed he could win a third term, running against Trump, had the law allowed it.
Develop a grasp of logical concepts: Understanding the relationships of facts is important, along with logical concepts like probability, possibility, certainty, typicality, sufficiency, all, if, either, implication, contrary and warrant is something we could perhaps put more thought into.
Often, pupils may claim something ‘must be’ true or is ‘probably’ true. Here, a quantifier like all, some, comparatively few, and no is critically important.
Is it enough to claim that an individual is a follower of a particular religion based on one tweet? This was the recent case in Southport, England, following an attack. Evaluating warrants again requires knowledge, including social and moral norms. These are often taught in schools but probably not consistently or recognised as critical in recognising disinformation.
Character and context: What we are saying is more important than the words we use to say it. We are all aware of how the same words can mean very different things depending on the context in which they are used, who uses them, when they are used or for what reasons.
Students need to carefully consider an author’s motivations, background, integrity, and funding. Often, this task is complicated due to anonymity, especially online, and the first question that should be asked in these cases is, ‘Why the need for anonymity?’
Critical thinking must be taught and not as a collection of methods: Critical thinking is not a checklist of actions; rather, it is a manner of acting. It is a virtue, along with intelligence, wisdom and understanding.
Students need to be provided with opportunities to practice and develop this virtue; they must work for it. Aristotle famously said, “We become just by doing just acts, temperate by doing temperate acts, brave by doing brave acts.” There is no easy way to spot and filter the truth from an increasingly large number of untruths. It requires practice, hard work and perseverance, and our job as educators is to provide students with the opportunities to develop this virtue through challenge, debate and discussion.
By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager
Inside the Homes Of Devonport
– A chance to see some of
The splendour of Devonport’s many beautifully maintained Victorian and turn of the century villas rates high on the long list of Devonport attractions – with the obvious caveat that unlike the beaches, maunga, hospitality and shopping opportunities, admiring those fabulous private homes can only be done from a distance.
the best
Not so on Friday 1 November when Devonport Rotary hosts the biennial Homes of Devonport event, which was first staged in October 2013 as the Fine Homes Tour, Devonport. It’s a very rare chance to have a polite snoop around some exquisite local houses at the generous invitation of their owners.
More importantly, the 10-house tour is a fantastic way for Rotary to raise money for deserving causes, both local and further afield. The last Homes of Devonport event in October 2022 brought in $90,000, with substantial donations made to Dementia Auckland and local schools. In 2024 Cure Kids and Dementia Auckland are the major beneficiaries, along with the Rotary Devonport Charitable Trust.
Rotary’s event director Lynda Betts says that each of the special homes on the tour has unique features to capture interest.
“Our home owners take part in the tour because they believe in the charities and they generously spend time and money to have their homes and gardens beautifully presented and ready to open for the day. Devonport buzzes with excitement and local businesses benefit as well.”
It's a rare opportunity to visit a curated collection of Devonport homes, from classic villas to architectural gems and award-winning spaces, and a fabulous way to spend time with friends and family. Explore behind the front doors, be inspired by Christmas displays and shop for home-made goodies. Tickets can be purchased through Eventfinda.
Devonport’s August 3/50/1000 shop local promotion proved a great success, with the $1000 grand prize going to a well deserving winner in Devonport resident Rixt Brownlow, already an avowed local retail supporter. While the fun promotion provided a welcome tonic, the lingering spending downturn has continued to hurt Devonport retail and hospitality outlets during spring. From here to Christmas the ‘shop local’ message remains a vital missive to ensure no more valued businesses are lost.
By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead
Outstanding strategic grantseeking and writing workshop in Glenfield, coming up for NFP groups!
Some groups have the opportunity to attend this workshop for free, due to specific funding support available. Others can attend at a subsidised rate.
See below for more information.
LiiFT Aotearoa professional development
There are some practical and helpful professional development and training sessions for NFP and community groups, in October, and continuing throughout the year.
16 October, 9.30am to 12.30pm. Strategic Grant Seeking and Writing, with presenter Therese Lanigan Behrent. Cost $80. Free to those NFP groups in the Kaipatiki Local Board area, with funding support from that local board and for all Pasifika groups. Contact Simon for more information about this (simon@ancad.org.nz).
To find out more about each of these sessions and to register, head to ANCAD’s dedicated training website at LiiFT.nz
2024 Funding Guide
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
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 – www.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 the respective local boards. Email simon@ancad.org. nz for more information.
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.
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
Effective Leadership for Resilient Community Organisations workshop held recently in Mt Roskill, by ANCAD and the LiiFT Aotearoa training programme, in association with the Puketapapa Local Board.
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
Another successful Sunnynook marathon
Congratulations to all the local residents and in particular the Woolworths Sunnynook staff who completed the September marathon. Personally I have had a fantastic time walking around the park with different people, catching up with old friends and getting out in the fresh air (although some days the weather was challenging)!
North Harbour Sport ran a fantastic event on Sunnynook Park on Sunday 22 September. The hāngi smelt amazing and the activities were lots of fun for the families that attended. The running races, tug-of-war etc were very competitive!
We have moved the defibrillator onto the deck of the Sunnynook Community Centre. It is therefore available for community use 24/7. It is in a locked cabinet; the regular hire group leaders are aware of the code, we have also informed St John of the code so that if you phone 111 they can tell you. We have also requested that the location of the defibrillator is updated on the AED Locations app. Please let the Community Centre office know if you have used it so that we can check the battery and replace the pads.
We are now sorting out our bookings for the Sunnynook Community Centre for 2025. We do have a few days/times that are available for hire. If you have a group that needs a venue please email us on snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz and we will let you know what is available and the cost.
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
Kind regards Bronwyn Bound, Centre Manager, Sunnynook Community Centre
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
What a busy month it has been!
As the frost has melted away, I.Lead has been using the better weather as an opportunity to engage with the wider community.
In early September, members of I.Lead attended both the Transition Expo and Power in the Park. Auckland’s Transition Expo helps young people (14-30 years old) and their families navigate the shift from school to adulthood by showcasing the range of opportunities available after student life. Power in the Park (hosted at Eden Park) was an engaging community open day that showcased different elements of disability including mobility aids, support services, accessible sports, and more. The Auckland I.Lead members enjoyed attending both these events and connecting with the community,
With I.Lead’s regional committees in full swing, a new national I.Lead committee has been established. The national committee will meet a minimum of ?? times a year, enabling members from across the country to collaborate on nationwide I.Lead projects.
The national committee contains nominated members from the Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, and Dunedin regional committees. 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 additional committees in regions including Hawkes Bay, Blenheim, Christchurch, and Whangarei. If you are interested in becoming a regional committee member, reach out via social media or email us at ilead@yesdisability.org.nz.
September brought with it I.Lead’s second-ever William Pike Challenge. The participants walked the Opanuku Twin Streams Path, totalling eight kilometres. 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 gamechanger. Participants, no matter their abilities or skill level, will have the opportunity to go sailing, rock climbing, nature-walking, and more.
After the success of our first Dunedin I.Drive workshop, we hosted 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, and Wellington I.Drive in the works! 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.
For more information about our programmes and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz/ • facebook.com/ileadconferencenz instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • tiktok.com/@i.lead linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org
Simon Gundry is a Devonport and North Shore identity, and character, who is known for calling a spade a spade. He is a director of contracting company Gill & Gundry, is an enthusiastic sailor (past crew-member of Ceramco New Zealand, Lion New Zealand and Shockwave) and is a life member of the North Shore Rugby Football Club. Simon was awarded a QSM for services to the community in 2013. More recently, he was inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame. He has been writing this thought-provoking column for Channel from the very first issue (over 14 years ago!).
After the marvelous display from Lisa Carrington at the Olympic Games, and after talking to numerous friends here on the North Shore we have come to the combined agreement to change the name of Lake Pupuke to Lake Carrington, as that is where she trains and has sweated to achieve Olympic glory so many times. I think it would be fitting. What a marvellous example she is to our upcoming young sports people.
I believe that we should name our stadiums or our parks after the true heroes of our sporting nation. For example, at Eden Park we have the East Stand, North Stand, South Stand and West Stands – imagine if they were called the Sir Wilson Whineray Stand, the Waka Nathan Stand, the John Kirwan Stand, the Grant Fox Stand. How good would that be, and a fitting tribute to these great former players.
Down at the Warriors stadium, it could be the Stacey Jones Stadium or the Ronnie Gibbons Stadium. It would really connect the history of the parks from the past to modern times. Anyway, just a thought.
On another note, are you noticing the cast iron pot holes that are developing around the North Shore? What I mean is every time they do a road resealing, whether in hot mix or chip seal no-one lifts the manhole lids or the fire hydrant lids. At every resealing this adds another 10ml or so onto the level of the road, developing quite a pothole where the manhole lids have not been lifted. One learns to know where these lids are to avoid them. But I think it is developing into quite a problem. Next time you’re out driving, take note and you will see what I mean.
Late last month I noticed down at the Narrow Neck carpark, where about 20 cars were parked on a drizzly Tuesday morning, obviously people were out walking as it was low tide. There was a car there with an Auckland Transport Officer, checking the warrants and registrations on these vehicles. I stopped to have a chat with this guy, and he told me in his less than perfect English that he was instructed to patrol the beach carparks, checking cars for warrants and registration and to issue tickets for anyone not displaying these. Another revenue gathering exercise for Auckland Transport. Also, last month I had to spend a bit of time up north where we were doing some work. I noticed on the drive up, the Brynderwyns are slipping again after all the tens of millions poured into that area. The roads heading north have myriad patches, potholes, half done work and are a disgrace. I firmly believe the state of the roads are the cause of many injuries and deaths in that area and throughout our country. It is all very well for the Government to say they are going to fix 64,000 potholes; that’s never going to happen, let’s be honest about that. We have to embark on a serious re-roading schedule throughout the country, but whether we can afford it as a nation, I just don’t know. As an example, it’s encouraging that the
Government is talking about pushing through an improved fourlane road through to Whangarei but surely it would be sensible to immediately start bypassing the Brynderwyns as the patch-up repairs are simply not going to last. As I have said many times, it is imperative that we get a decent and safe road through to Northland. The Northland economy really needs decent and reliable access to get goods and services through. How shortsighted it was to stop the new Puhoi-Warkworth road north from extending through to Wellsford, I often think of that as I drive over the new motorway with its lovely smooth road and sculpted hills then out we pop onto the goat track again to head into Wellsford.
Another thing I have noticed is that with the multitude of pedestrian crossings around, hardly any pedestrians stop and
…last month I had to spend a bit of time up north where we were doing some work. I noticed on the drive up, the Brynderwyns are slipping again after all the tens of millions poured into that area.
look before they stride out onto the crossing. It used to be that pedestrians would approach a crossing, stop and look both ways and wait for cars to stop before walking out. Now, pedestrians and cyclists often walk, or cycle, straight out without pausing and expect motorists to stop for them. A great example of this is the crossing in Bayswater Avenue by the graveyard and sports fields. Cyclists and walkers either come up the hill from the graveyard or from the sports field and despite the metal poles placed to slow them down, they head straight on out. I have witnessed many near misses, especially at dusk, as there is not sufficient lighting, particularly on the graveyard side of the road.
And another grumble. What happened to stopping at a Stop sign at an intersection? When I learned to drive the importance of stopping at a Stop sign was drummed in; it was an instant fail on your driving test if you didn’t.
Another month down, I’m looking forward to better weather and soon we’ll be talking about Christmas and holidays again. Keep safe as you drive around and watch out for those pedestrians on the crossings.
with Lindsay Knight
Season set to be busy!
The 2024-25 North Harbour summer bowls season, now in its early stages, is shaping up as one of the centre’s busiest, with a wide range of domestic, national and even international events scheduled.
All of which is placing a considerable strain on Bowls North Harbour (BNH) officials, and in particular the centre’s secretary-manager, Garth Partridge, the man with the main responsibility of coordinating all the events, even if for some it is primarily in a liaison role.
Besides the regular programme of inter-club competitions, centre championships and representative fixtures, the centre will be involved in hosting a couple of other major tournaments. On 25-30 November, Browns Bay will be the venue for the world bowls champion of champions singles, which undoubtedly is the most prestigious bowls tournament ever held on the North Shore involving many international class bowlers, especially from the United Kingdom, Australia and, of course, New Zealand.
Then from 2-9 January several of North Harbour’s clubs will be used for the national singles and pairs men’s and women’s championships.
Much of the running of these will be in the hands of world and Bowls New Zealand officials and Garth’s load will be also eased by support from other Harbour officials, its match committee and other volunteers.
Indeed, his biggest challenge will probably have come early this month when the centre again hosts, from 7-11 October, the Metlifecare New Zealand Masters, for bowlers from all over the country from the age of 60 upwards. In terms of man-hours, organising this has been Garth’s main priority
Garth became involved with bowls in 2012 when, with his failing knees starting to affect his golf, he went to see a friend playing in that
year’s national championships for which Browns Bay was the venue. Soon after he became a member of the Mairangi Bay club, quickly being enlisted in the club’s administration and from there in 2021 he was shoulder-tapped to join the Harbour board.
A Shore resident all his life, educated at Takapuna Primary, Belmont Intermediate and Takapuna Grammar, he was always sports-mad, playing rugby, golf, surfing, squash, cricket, and tennis at what he says was a very mediocre level but with great enthusiasm.
That love of sport, though, plus a strong background in running his own business and then many years in the computer industry, has provided him with impressive administrative credentials.
He took over the family’s shoe business in Takapuna in the 1970s expanding into three retails shops before the advent of cheap imports had such a devasting impact on the local manufacturing industry. In addition, smaller stores like his were unable to bulk buy and compete against the major chains.
He then spent 17 years in the computer industry which was invaluable in furthering his understanding of how businesses work. The chief lesson for him was that to survive, one needed to adapt.
Of necessity much of his emphasis is on making sure the centre’s competitions run smoothly and there is an inevitable focus on the top end. However, the ordinary bowlers and their interests remain a fundamental concern.
While a centre board member Garth had a particular interest on the one-to-five-year levels and their representative programmes. He says: “I believe that for the growth and health of the game the grass-roots and club members need to be supported. If they and the competitive bowlers are happy things will run smoothly.”
bowlsnorthharbour.com
Garth Partridge, presenting winners in his role as Bowls North Harbour secretary-manager.
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
By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager
Eco-actions in our community: Making a difference together Takapuna Eco Pop-up
Get ready to make a difference at the Takapuna Eco Pop-up on Monday 7 October, in collaboration with Takapuna Library! This month, we're collecting clean and dry liquid paperboard (Tetrapaks), which can't be recycled through kerbside collections. By dropping items 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.
Pupuke Birdsong Project school holiday programme: Our popular school holiday programme is back! Join us as we explore our coast and parks. Our school holiday programme offers a range of family-friendly nature-based guided tours showcasing our unique ecological taonga. Register by scanning the QR code.
4 Initially rejected complaint over charge for a round (3)
6 Humphrey heard to go 1 over 18? (5)
9 Girl about to object to naked fling (7)
10 Teletubby advanced a type of Italian food (7)
11 Latest amphibians waste time (4)
12 Puzzle about public transport (5)
13 Press club (4)
16 Swift yes left in pile of rocks (6)
17 Husband and I limit what's used to aid equality in 25 across (8)
20 Awfully angering (8)
22 Conceal hesitation by a former star of 25 across (6)
25 G-gilding material missing - deal off (4)
26 Woods line 25 across central (5)
27 I sat, excited and bubbly (4)
31 Say I saw a sight? (7)
32 Upset daily coup de grace for a star of 25 across (5,2)
33 Fine about energy being relative (5)
34 See 19 Down
35 The aglet content to go 2 under 18 (5)
Down
1 Graduate's trick to get cured meat (5)
2 Area between 16 down and 25 down is key to respiratory tract (7)
Solution to last month's crossword
3/4 Villain on course to hold diamond queen (10)
5 Seal soup served at wedding? (8)
6 Hop Boat Lily occasionally used (4)
7 "Low down chap" could apply to an entire group (7)
8 Long time by midmorning (5)
14 Unmowed area where Trump played, reportedly (5)
15 Perfect Trump's art after one (5)
16 Peg there regularly? (3)
18 What you don't want to be below, except in 25 across (3)
19/34 A swing path in 25 across is united too indiscriminately (6,2,3)
21 Lie in, always rising to let off (7)
23 Horse obliged to 'oist (7)
24 State on record about small 6 down (6)
25 Putting area of north-east desert back (5)
28 See 29
29/28 They say the entire tavern triumphed after a perfect drive (4,2,3)
30 Advantage of 13 without lead (4)
This month's crossword will also be uploaded to the creator’s blog at: mayaofauckland.substack.com
There, Mãyã will kindly attempt to answer any questions or comments that may arise from the crosswords each month.
Demonstrator Sales Event.
No deposit and no payments until 2025*
EQE
$110,900 Drive away
2023
Heated Front Seats QGH653 $144,900 Drive away
Me r cedes-Benz No r th Sho r e tod ay.
bno r thsho r e. c o.n z
Vehicles are advertised for sale by Mercedes-Benz North Shore acting on behalf of Mercedes-Benz New Zealand Limited (MBNZ) and the information published in association with that vehicle is made by
Offer is restricted to approved customers of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services New Zealand Ltd (excluding fleet and govern ment customers) on a Consumer or Business Credit Loan which are subject to terms & conditions. A fixed interest rate of 6.99% p.a. ap plies, payments are to be made monthly and will commence on the 4th month after vehicle delivery. Please refer to your Retailer for th e full details. Payments include a PPSR fee of $10.35 and documentation fee of $244 for consumer and $395 for business, over a fixed term of 36 months from the vehicle delivery with a 45% residual balloon payment. Standard credit assessment and lending criteria apply. Vehicles advertised are available for sale at the time of publication.
2024 GLE 400 d 4MATIC, designo Hyacinth Red, Night Package, AMG Sports Package, 7 Seats, 360 Reverse Camera
The Mercedes-Benz Demonstrator Sales Event is on now at Mercedes-Benz North Shore. A world of possibilities await. Discover your dream Mercedes-Benz today.
2023
300 SUV, Sodalite Blue, 21-inch
Alloys, Panoramic Sunroof, Heads Up Display, 360 Reverse Camera
