56
OFFICE SUITES AVAILABLE
This is an excellent opportunity to lease a modern office suite situated on the popular Barrys Point Road.
This studio style office tenancy is available for lease and has parking available at the rear of the building. Three options to choose from, 56 or 64sqm or take both comprising a total area of 120sqm. A recently refurbished building with excellent natural light and kitchen/bathrooms shared with just one other tenant. Swipe card access and a security system in place, this could be your new office leading into 2025. Great access to all motorways and close to the CBD, this property ticks all the boxes.
Contact Nick or Janet now to discuss rental expectations or a viewing. colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67029934
OFFICE, SHOWROOM OR MEDICAL - 160 SQM AVAILABLE NOW
This is a great opportunity to lease approximately 160 sqm of ground floor office / showroom / medical in the heart of Albany.
Available now with own amenities and allocated carparks, public transport close by and walking distance to Westfield Albany Mall.
Opportunities such as this are rare in Albany, so don’t delay. Contact Janet Marshall, 021 684 775 for further information or to request a viewing.
colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67030088
sqm available (lease one or both)
Nick Recordon 027 230 6751 nick.recordon@colliers.com
Marshall 021 684 775 janet.marshall@colliers.com
Janet Marshall 021 684 775 janet.marshall@colliers.com
Run, don’t walk. Takapuna Beach Café has opened a popup fish and chip shop from now until April 2025.
Bring your picnic rug and beach cricket set if that’s up your alley, Fish & Chip Shop operates at Takapuna Beach Café in the takeaway area, making it the perfect situation for a Takapuna Beach or park picnic on a summer’s evening.
It offers all the classics along with some gourmet options that are more reminiscent of what Takapuna Beach Café traditionally offers. Takapuna Beach Café’s James Bryant, and team have thoughtfully designed the menu, branding and details to perfection, bringing a refreshing and elevated offering in a casual setting.
The Channel Mag team sampled the offerings in early October and we can tell you that the quality is top notch with all the fish sustainably line-caught and brought in daily. The bread is baked fresh daily at Knead, their sister bakery.
“Fish & Chip Shop is about having that nostalgic feeling of unwrapping a parcel of fish and chips on the beach,” says James Bryant. “We wanted to maximise our beachfront location and bring that timeless experience to Takapuna over the summer.”
Following our sampling these are our top picks:
• The prawn toast was delicious and something a bit different compared to the classics. We felt like it paid homage to the sophistication of Takapuna Beach Café.
• The chip butty was incredible, the pillowy brioche bread and the selection of sauces makes this one a must order!
• If you’re a die-hard sliders fan (hi Depot), get the fish sliders. So, so yum.
• The classic fish can’t be missed – we loved the choice of pan fried or crumbed, and the crumbed absolutely did not disappoint.
• The chips come with a choice of seasoning. We got lemon pepper, and it was chef’s kiss. We were also tempted by the chicken salt so that’ll be our next order.
• We LOVED the doughnut made with Takapuna Beach Café’s signature house made gelato. It was an absolute highlight and probably one of the best desserts we’ve had in a long time.
Fish & Chip Shop is about having that nostalgic feeling of unwrapping a parcel of fish and chips on the beach.
The details – Fish & Chip Shop at Takapuna Beach Café, available now until Sunday 6 April. 7 days a week, 3pm-8pm (last order daily 7.45pm). Orders can be placed and picked up from the takeaway section of the café. Orders can also be made online via their website.
Grand gracious residence on 1,226sqm 1 ASCOT AVENUE, NARROW NECK
Seldom does such an outstanding property come to the market in this highly coveted and sought-after location.
Situated on a magnificent flat north-facing site of 1,226m2, this is a beautiful family home of grand proportions. The home exudes charm and character with a generous floor area of approximately 470m2; there is an abundance of space and great separation for family living. The recently refreshed interiors are stylish: dark timber floors, carpets, new curtains and crisp white walls.
Arranged over two levels, the property offers five double bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, three separate living areas, and an office. It features a fantastic open-plan living, dining and kitchen space on the ground floor, with great outdoor flow to decking and covered terraces perfect for entertaining.
A large separate formal living area is a grand space, perfect for large family gatherings or formal entertaining. Also on this level is a double bedroom, office, bathroom, guest toilet, and separate laundry.
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licenced under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
The upper level offers a luxurious master suite with a sitting area, a walkin robe, a large ensuite and amazing views of Auckland city. There are two further spacious double bedrooms and a shared bathroom. A third living area/ tv room and a large fourth bedroom with ensuite and living area with sea views, is perfect as a guest suite, for teenagers, or extended family.
There is a large double garage with internal access; the driveway provides additional parking and a great space for kids to play, and there's an additional single garage at the roadside.
The property is fully fenced with security gate access featuring beautiful tropical gardens, grassed lawn areas and a sun-drenched heated swimming pool.
There is gas central heating throughout the home and two open fires for those cold winter months. Superbly located within a short walk of local Cheltenham shops and cafés, and both Cheltenham and Narrow Neck Beach are just minutes away on foot.
Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com
Phone: 021 747 334
Over $1.3 Billion total sales
Located in sought-after Castor Bay with a sunny northerly aspect and elevated sea views, this stunning property has undergone a full interior and exterior renovation, offering families a turn-key package.
The new black Abodo timber cladding combined with black double-glazed joinery gives the property a striking façade. Situated on an elevated site of 409m2 which offers superb privacy from the street and excellent sea views.
The interior has been completely renovated, now offering a fresh coastal aesthetic with a very tasteful and warm neutral colour palate. New oak timber floors add warmth and practicality.
In terms of accommodation, there are four bedrooms, two living areas, two and a half bathrooms, an office or third living space, and a double garage. The main level offers both formal and informal spaces, an open plan kitchen and dining, which all flow seamlessly to the outdoors. The kitchen offers a generous layout with a central island and a built-in bar area.
The open-plan dining and informal living areas are well-proportioned spaces and flow to the outdoor terrace with a louvre roof, perfect for entertaining. The terrace flows to a flat lawn area and great outlook over neighbouring trees to the sea views beyond. The formal living room is connected to the main living areas, which can be closed off for separation when required, and has a gas fire. There is also a luxurious powder room and guest toilet.
The upper level offers four bedrooms, including a palatial master suite with a large walk-in robe and a beautifully tiled ensuite bathroom. There is a main bathroom to service the remaining bedrooms. All the bedrooms benefit from great sea views, each offering a slightly different outlook.
Superbly located, with Castor Bay beach within a short walk and Milford shopping centre and local amenities a little further away, this home is in zone for top local schools: Campbells Bay Primary, Murrays Bay Intermediate and both Westlake Boys' and Girls' High Schools.
Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the golden mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last eight consecutive calendar years, Andrew has sold over $100 million each year, at an average of over $5,000,000 per property – one of the highest (in volume and average sale price) residentially in the country. While he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche in the seaward side streets in and around Milford and Takapuna, especially with the lock-up-and-leave market. He sees a strong correlation between larger homes and the downsizer market assisting those vendors with their next purchase. If you are thinking of selling your home or purchasing a new one, please contact Andrew for a confidential discussion.
Welcome to our penultimate issue of Channel Mag for another year. The year has flown by once again. We’re in November - wow!
Summer is knocking on the door, and we reckon there’s nothing quite like a summer on Auckland’s North Shore. We have New Zealand’s best beaches to play at and some of the country's very best shopping and hospitality options.
Our cover for this issue features fish and chips at the beach. When the weather is good a family picnic at the beach or one of our special parks near the beach is just what we do. The wonderful Takapuna Beach Café on the northern end of our iconic beach is one of the best cafés and eateries in the country. Maybe the best when you pair up the location with their all-round culinary offering. This summer, they are adding to that with a pop-up fish and chip shop that is open right through summer until April next year. I had the opportunity to try their tasty range of treats during October and believe me, you’ll love them!
In this issue of Channel Mag, there really is something for everyone. And it’s all positive.
Publisher/Advertising
Mostly. Simon Gundry’s 'mate from the pub' is the only real exception - he’s got a big case of the grumbles! But it’s thought-provoking stuff. Our team has been Out & About in this issue (we love a function!), we’ve got lots of suggestions on local eateries to try, I caught up with name-sake Adam Bennett (no relation), a local community champion who is keen on bringing events to his home patch, and Christine Young has done an informative piece on emergency management planning. In this issue, we also focus on health, summer travel, shopping, fashion, education and more. Hopefully, we have inspired you to do all your Christmas shopping right here in your home patch this November and December. After a tough year for business, it would be great to keep our spending local - we urge you to do that.
Have a great November.
Aidan Bennett, QSM
Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder & MD, Benefitz Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Advertising/Content Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz
Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media
Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz
CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.
Colour transparencies & manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.
The PumpHouse Theatre was the beautiful venue for Phoenix Theatre's come-back play 'Call Girls', which was staged from 17 to 26 October. On a mission to put 'the community back into community theatre' they certainly delivered: a total of 1,500 bums on seats graced the auditorium with roof-raising raucous laughter to boot, with a fair few audience members coming twice, if not three times over. Phoenix Theatre has certainly risen from the ashes; across the nine performances, an amazing six sold out, with the other three shows not far off. The cast, crew and full production team can't thank you all enough; the support has been phenomenal on every level! Phoenix Theatre is excited to bring you their 2025 season at the PumpHouse Theatre, starting with another comedy play, 'Così', taking the stage in March next year. And this won't be the last you hear from playwright James Carrick, either! His next play is already ready to roll – watch this space!
A wonderful, relaxed event at MC Tiles in Tawa Drive was attended by a broad mix of clients, interior designers, house build companies and kitchen designers. It was an opportunity to showcase their exquisite new tile collections from Italy and Spain, as well as view their recently created outdoor tile area. A key ingredient of the evening was Jodi Preston–Thomas, attending from Harbour Hospice. MC Tiles are proud to support such a worthwhile cause with 5% of any orders generated from the event going to this charity. Please keep up the great work you and hospice do.
Our range of titles, include some of the most prestigious offerings from the world’s leading producers in Italy and Spain. We offer tile solutions for all spaces, floors and walls – both indoors and outdoors.
Boasting a powerful engine and a precise chassis and suspension setup, the BMW X2 M35i xDrive offers outstanding performance, a factor that is also unequivocally reflected in the design of the M model. Find out more about the BMW X2 M35i xDrive, and experience the unique combination of sportiness and everyday practicality.
$30,000
The North Harbour Club annually awards grants to young people, aged 13 - 25 years, in the North Harbour region who display Excellence in their chosen career or field. Over $200,000 total grant funding pool is up for grabs, so get your application underway today – applications close Friday 24 January 2025.
The North Harbour Club hosted the final Business Excellence Network (BEN) breakfast for 2024 on Tuesday 15 October at Regatta Bar & Eatery in Takapuna. Over 100 attendees were on hand to hear journalist and media personality Paddy Gower’s engaging presentation about his life and career to date. This has all been captured in a book he has published recently with the title that can’t be published in full – ‘This is the F#$%ing News’. Paddy spoke of his new role at Stuff, focusing on delivering mostly positive news. He also gave attendees a sneak peek into his upcoming tour, which will blend journalism and stand-up comedy. It was a very entertaining way to start the day overlooking Takapuna Beach.
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
As the year winds down, November at The PumpHouse Theatre is heating up with a vibrant mix of shows and experiences. Here's a glimpse of what’s in store!
Kirihimete is on its way! What better way to kick off the season early than with 'The Muppet Christmas Carol' on 8 November. Gather the whānau for a joyful reimagining of Dickens’s classic tale featuring Kermit, Miss Piggy and all your favourite Muppets. This timeless film beloved by generations is a special fundraiser for our gorgeous heritage theatre, with pay what you wish tīkiti available.
Next, on 9 November Kelvin Cruickshank brings us the 'Language of Spirit Tour 2024'. Have you ever wondered what messages might be waiting for you from beyond? This celebrated medium will take you on a journey through the unseen, as he connects with the spirits around us on a night that promises to be as awe-inspiring as it is emotional.
For music lovers, the North Shore Concert Band will sweep audiences across two continents with 'Echoes Across the Americas' on 10 November. This concert is sure to entertain, featuring an exciting musical journey from the rhythms of Latin America to the anthems of North America.
And Austen fans – brace yourselves! From 13 - 17 November, Foolish Wit Theatre presents 'Pride and Prejudice', but with a twist. This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Prepare for an electrifying new take on Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy that will leave you swooning and laughing in equal measure. Expect wit, charm and maybe even a bit of scandal!
Finally to close the month, from 21 - 24 November i-Start Chinese Theatre will present 'Letter from an Unknown Woman'. This romantic tale originally penned by Stefan Zweig, will be performed in Mandarin, bringing its haunting beauty to life with an added layer of cultural depth.
Make sure to visit our website for tickets and more details: pumphouse.co.nz
Mā te wā! James Bell
BOOKINGS: 09 489 8360 or pumphouse.co.nz
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
We have another jam-packed creative month ahead, with lots to do and see, so read on to find out more!
Our December First Thursdays event is a Christmas wreath workshop facilitated by Gretchen Mawson, owner of Devonport Flowers on Thursday 5 December, from 5-7pm. Create your own environmentally friendly Christmas wreath during this exciting workshop! These will be created on a handmade frame. using naturally sourced materials, such as pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices and fresh foliage. They are great for hanging on the front door or placing on the table with a candle in the centre. Tickets are $50 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
Our ongoing exhibition '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. Taking place at the historic 3 Victoria Road building, this exhibition is not one to be missed! We have also moved the Depot shop, Toi Toa to 3 Victoria Road, so be sure to stop by and view the collection.
Depot Artspace
- RE: OBJECT [2024]
Our upcoming exhibition 'Re: Object' marks the halfway point in the inaugural twoyear Object Maker Aotearoa Fellowship designed to nurture and empower ten contemporary object makers working across craft-based and found materials. Focusing on material play alongside conceptual insights, artists explore the rich intersection between craft, design and visual arts and bring the object into the spotlight. 'Re: Object' showcases a diverse group of artists working with new ideas, pushing material boundaries and testing new ways of making. Join us on Saturday 23 November, 2-4pm for the exhibition opening as we reopen the gallery at 28 Clarence Street, Devonport.
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!
A delightful evening awaits at The PumpHouse Theatre this month as Jane Austen’s beloved 'Pride and Prejudice' gets a lively new adaptation. This isn’t the reserved Austen you may remember from high school; it’s a spirited, fast-paced production that blends the charm of the original story with the energy and wit of today’s world. Perfect for fans of classic literature and anyone looking for a memorable night out!
Shivneel Singh steps into the role of the iconic Mr Darcy. While this is his first time acting in an Austen production, his connection to the role is deeply personal – he auditioned in honour of his late fiancée Monica, who passed away in June. “Mon loved this genre,” Singh shares. “I never expected to be cast, let alone as Mr Darcy, but I’m thrilled and hope to make Mon proud.”
Opposite Singh, Jack Frances Corte takes on the role of the bold Elizabeth Bennet. “My sister and I were huge fans of 'Pride and Prejudice' growing up,” Corte says. “It’s such a thrill to bring Lizzie to life – she’s funny, smart and independent. This show really captures that."
Kate Hamill’s clever adaptation doesn’t lose sight of what makes Austen timeless: the humour, the heart and of course, the love stories
that keep us coming back to Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy. Expect plenty of laughs, a bit of romance and the joy of live theatre as you watch the characters navigate the tricky world of finding the right match.
Foolish Wit Theatre is a company with a reputation for creating high-quality, engaging productions. Founders James Bell, Mags Delaney-Moffatt and Āria Harrison-Sparke bring decades of experience to the stage, focusing on great storytelling, world building and a strong sense of community among cast and crew.
Recent productions at The PumpHouse include 'The Welkin' in 2023, the sold-out season of 'The Crucible' in 2021, and 'The Vagina Monologues' the year before that.
Whether you’re an Austen fan or just love a good story, this is a fresh and fun take on 'Pride and Prejudice' that’s sure to leave you smiling. But don’t wait too long – tickets are already selling fast!
'Pride and Prejudice' is playing from Wednesday 13 to Sunday 17 November at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna. Tickets are available at pumphouse.co.nz
Channel Mag's Liz Cannon chats with James Doy MNZM, and two of the cast members, Kaitlyn Darroch and Joseph Wolfkamp.
CMag: Tell us about the National Youth Theatre's 'Alice: A Wonderland Musical'.
James Doy: I had the honour of receiving my MNZM from Her Excellency the Governor General last month, and at the end of the ceremony, premiered some songs from 'Alice' on the piano at Government House. Hopefully, that bodes well for our season! This is our second original full-length musical. The advantage of that is that we knew we could do it. The drawback is that we have to make it as good as the first one! I reckon we’ve met that challenge, and I hope everyone struggles to get the tunes out of their heads as much as I do. My kids are in it as well, which makes it an extra special experience for me. It’s surreal hearing them sing my songs in the car on the way to auditions; at some point, they stop being mine and take on a life of their own. Their school, Beach Haven, is coming to the show, so the pressure is on!
When looking for inspiration for our next show, it was hard to go past the gloriously whacky world offered by Lewis Carroll’s much-loved tales 'Alice In Wonderland' and 'Alice Through The Looking Glass'. A cast of fabulous characters populating a richly imagined world is the dream treasure chest for a creative team. Alice brings life, wonderment and dreaming to the page and the stage, as she journeys through time and space searching for sense amongst the chaos. She’s a girl on a mission in a world of different rules, different hats and warring factions working out who they are and who they want to be, with sister Bea not far behind. We’ve teased out Carroll’s marvellous language and nonsensical narrative with some inventiveness of our own, to develop a story for all ages crafted around 25 original songs which we hope honour both the spirit and the substance of the original work. It’s been a joyous journey bringing this eccentricity to theatrical life in a brand new musical written specially for the National Youth Theatre. We can’t wait to share it with you all.
Our cast – all 250 of them – are phenomenal! I’ve genuinely written the songs I wanted to write, and they’re performing them as well as any professional cast I’ve worked with over the years. I’m so looking forward to seeing them all shine on stage.
Here’s what our Artistic Director Jonathan Alver says the audience can expect: “A grumpy queen, some strawberry tarts, a smiley cat, a handmade hat, some Tweedle twins, a broken watch and a very tardy rabbit. Teacups, chessboards, dodos, turtles, big and small, it’s got them all!"
Liz chats with Kaitlyn Darroch, 16 (Alice and ensemble, TGS) and Joseph Wolfkamp, 17 (Maddie and ensemble, Rosmini College)
How would you describe your experience as an NYT cast member?
KD: The NYT community is like a family. I’ve been doing NYT since 2018 when I was in 'Shrek' as a 10-year-old. It allowed me to develop my skills in a supportive, welcoming environment. Every production pushes me to grow as a performer.
JW: I thoroughly enjoy it! It's such an inviting and fun environment full of wonderful young performers sharing their passion for musical theatre and working together to create great shows. It has been an incredible opportunity for me over the past few years to be able to develop my skills to perform to the best of my ability.
What has been the biggest challenge of learning a brand-new musical?
KD: Finding my own interpretation of Alice while learning a brand-new score and story. Since it’s an original musical, there’s no existing 'blueprint' to follow. But that also makes it really exciting!
JW: Having no existing material. With other productions, you can familiarise yourself with the songs before the rehearsal process begins. So the challenge for us all is to bring the vision of this show to life for the first time.
What has been a highlight of the 'Alice' rehearsal process?
KD: Creating the world of wonderland with my fellow cast-mates. Being a part of the original cast feels like a dream – I get to watch this show change and flourish alongside us in the process.
JW: Seeing the new and unique takes on the classic characters everyone knows and loves. For me, Maddie the Hatter has been re-imagined in this production and will be portrayed in a new and magical way. I cannot wait to see all these characters continue to be brought to life in the rehearsal room and on stage.
What is your favourite thing about NYT?
KD: The community. I’ve made so many friendships that I’ve maintained in and outside of the show. Everyone is supportive of each other through the ups and downs of rehearsals and show week.
JW: The people. None of the magic we create onstage would be possible without the cast and the creative and backstage teams during theatre week. Everyone is so important in the process of making these shows come to life on stage. They are kind and caring, always looking out for each other, whenever and wherever they are.
Why should people come to see 'Alice: A Wonderland Musical'?
KD: Because it’s unlike any version of Alice they’ve seen before! The title may be familiar but the music, choreography, story and characters bring a fresh twist to the tale. It’s a great opportunity to see youth talent shine.
JW: Because it will be like nothing anyone has seen before. With a new script and songs, this show takes you on a journey through wonderland with many exciting surprises along the way. This show is filled with magic and a bit of madness, so make sure you are not late for a very important date! See you on 30 November - 1 December!
Luminata Voices is thrilled to invite you to their highly anticipated Christmas High Tea, a delightful event that blends the cherished tradition of Christmas carolling with the elegance of a high tea experience.
Back by popular demand, they are offering not one but two opportunities to celebrate the magic of the season!
Guests will enjoy a selection of gourmet teas, finger sandwiches, scones and an array of delectable desserts, all while being immersed in a winter wonderland of timeless melodies and the joyful spirit of Christmas.
This has been a sell-out event for the past two years, so get in quick as ticket sales will close a few days before the event or when sold out!
Tickets are $55 per person or $62 per person with special dietary restrictions (you can select this ticket and advise us of your requirements during the booking process). You can also book a table of six with a group discount for $325 (special dietary requirements will need to be added on).
Concert details: 11am and 3pm, Sunday 1 December 2024. Venue: Tindall Auditorium, Rosmini College, 36 Dominion Street, Takapuna. Tickets are available today at luminatavoices.org
Devonport Methodist mainly music is turning 20!
Calling all parents, kids and caregivers...
If you have been part of mainly music in the last 20 years, we’d love you to join us to celebrate on Friday 15 November from 5.30pm
Devonport Methodist Church 18 Owens Road, Devonport RSVP by email - mainlymusic.devmeth@gmail.com
Sheila’s Island, Company Theatre’s upcoming, not-to-be-missed hilarious comedy at The Rose Centre in Belmont is billed to be 'The Office-meets-Lord of the Flies-meets-Miranda', an apt summary which only skims the surface of the depths of laughter and heart layered within this play by the highly experienced, hugely successful and award-winning writer Tim Firth (Calendar Girls, Kinky Boots).
In a team-building weekend gone very wrong, the four female middle managers of Team C from Pennine Mineral Water Ltd have been blown way off course on their outward bound corporate adventure in the Lake District on bonfire night, and are shipwrecked as a result of the incompetence of their ‘captain’ Sheila. No amount of cryptic crossword clue cracking or seemingly endless stores of camping kitchenware can get them off this island and back in time for the final banquet – they’re on their own. Activate survival mode. Office politics melt away to reveal truths both beautiful and ugly, while the team’s attempts to stay warm, fed and dry keep the audience in fits of laughter.
The team’s incompetence includes a total lack of common sense and a complete failure to raise the alarm and alert rescuers to their plight. No phone signal, no food, no tent, and what should have been a bonding event turns into recrimination and catastrophe among the desolate wastelands, terrorising wild men and rampaging wildlife of the Lake District.
The team of four consists of the ever-cheery, though ineffective leader Sheila, the protagonist Denise who sets all on edge as she
chastises everyone, in particular the mentally fragile Fay, a keen ornithologist and devout Christian (having found God after a personal tragedy), while the super-organised Julie disintegrates at the suggestion of her husband Angus’ infidelity.
As in life, we see in this piece of theatre how the women might disagree on many things throughout their misadventure, but ultimately, they must work together to survive. For these women in the prime of their lives, will it be survival of the fittest or survival of the hottest?
Director Kathy Gent says, “We promise an evening of laughter and unexpected twists. We will take the audience on a roller coaster of emotions as they join our characters on their hilarious and poignant journey, poignant because they discover so many hidden truths and vulnerabilities about themselves and each other. Our four hapless businesswomen Sheila, Denise, Julie and Fay survive in the office because they can keep their distance and get away from each other in the evening and every weekend. They also have food, warmth and shelter both at work and at home. Strip all that away and you are about to see what ensues."
Book now for this sparkling sharp-witted comedy at iticket.co.nz or 09 361 1000. Tickets $30 or $27 concessions.
Sheila’s Island is on at The Rose Centre, Belmont 16-30 Nov, Weds to Sat at 7.30pm, Sundays at 2pm. NB Sat 23 at 4pm instead of 7.30pm
Just as medieval cathedrals brought communities together, modern stadiums, like Eventfinda Stadium serve as vibrant hubs for connection, entertainment, and civic pride. Our venues are more than just places for sports; they are where communities gather to celebrate, interact, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a basketball game, concert, or cultural festival, every interaction strengthens the bonds within the community.
After the disruptions of Covid-19 and the floods of 2023, our spaces have become even more vital for the North Shore community in our role of reasserting these bonds of community.
At Eventfinda Stadium, we embrace our role as a community hub. Over the past year, more than 400,000 people have visited our facility, despite nearly two months of closure due to flood damage.
We’ve completed more than $4 million in repairs and upgrades
and we’ve come back stronger than ever, offering new meeting spaces, upgraded equipment, and the best event lineup we’ve had in a decade.
The 2025 calendar is packed with record numbers of events joining basketball, and our partners at Harbour Gymnastics to deliver a calendar busier than ever.
Connections, built through sports and events, unite us, and we’re proud to support partners like North Harbour Basketball and North Harbour Gymnastics. Fortunately, Eventfinda Stadium is in its strongest position ever – financially stable and deeply connected to the community and focused on being here for the future. We are committed to improving even further, and look forward to welcoming you at our venue this summer. Brian Blake, Eventfinda Stadium CEO.
Thursday 27 February 2025
Auckland Sounds returns for another unforgettable nostalgic festival right here on your doorstep, throwing you back to the '80s with chart-topping hits from OMD – Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark, Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, John Stevens –Noiseworks & INXS Collection, Diesel, and The Narcs featuring Kim Willoughby.
Contact us at info@eventfindastadium.co.nz for more information.
AOTANGO Quintet is thrilled to present an unforgettable evening of tango at the Westlake Girls Event Centre in Takapuna on 6 December at 7pm, celebrating International Tango Day. This event is free for children aged 18 and under.
International Tango Day commemorates the birthdays of two iconic figures in tango history: Carlos Gardel, known as 'The Voice' and 'The Tango King,' and Julio De Caro, a notable composer, violinist and orchestra conductor.
Last year AOTANGO Quintet celebrated International Tango Day at a sold-out concert at Auckland Museum.
AOTANGO, a fusion of 'Ao,' meaning 'world' in te reo Māori, and 'tango,' showcases their unique blend of classical, tango and world music, in a quintet formation created by Argentinian composer and bandoneonist Astor Piazzolla. This local ensemble features some of New Zealand’s top musicians, including violinist Andrew Beer (Concertmaster of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and recipient of the Best Classical Artist award at the 2020 New Zealand Music Awards), pianist Somi Kim from NZTrio, bassist Gordon Hill (Section Principal of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra), renowned jazz guitarist Sam Swindells, and world champion accordionist and North Harbour Club AIMES Award winner Grayson Masefield.
The evening will kick off with a concert featuring tango and world music, showcasing guest dancers and singers. After intermission, the floor will open for a lively milonga, where dancers of all levels can enjoy tandas (sets) of tangos, milongas and waltzes.
Whether you're an experienced dancer or just starting to discover the world of tango, this event has something for everyone. You can dance along or simply soak in the vibrant milonga atmosphere while enjoying a diverse selection of Latin American dishes from Argentine, Chilean and Uruguayan food vendors, accompanied by a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages from JJs Bar Service.
The International Tango Day concerts will continue on 9 December at the Globe Theatre in Palmerston North and 10 December at the Public Trust Hall in Wellington. This concert series is supported by Creative Communities NZ and the Argentine Embassy, celebrating 60 years of bilateral relations between Argentina and New Zealand.
Don't miss this special opportunity to experience the magic of tango music and dance!
AOTANGO Quintet Evening of tango and dance 6 December – Westlake Girls Event Centre. Doors Open 6.30pm. Tickets: General Admission - $40; Concession - $30; Children are free with purchased GA or concession ticket. Tickets are available online through Eventfinda. For more information visit aotango.com
By Hon Simon Watts, North Shore MP
People often think climate action comes at the cost of economic growth, but that simply isn’t true. New Zealand has abundant opportunities, which means if we use the right levers, we can reduce emissions to meet our climate goals without shutting down businesses or lowering production. This is becoming vitally important as we continue to see extreme weather events damaging infrastructure and communities, disrupting supply chains and costing New Zealand billions.
The Government is working with high-emitting sectors, including agriculture, transport, energy and waste, to find practical solutions to reduce emissions without hindering economic growth. By unlocking New Zealand’s abundance of potential from our innovators, natural resources and landscapes, climate action and economic growth can go hand in hand.
New Zealand and the North Shore are home to some of the world’s leading innovators in climate technology. The government is backing our innovators, recognising that innovation drives economic growth and climate action.
Not long ago, many believed we had to choose between immediate costs and future benefits. However, we now understand that addressing climate change can enhance efficiency and foster new technologies to reduce emissions and lower risks. By removing the barriers stopping our innovators from growing, we can increase investment, create jobs, grow the economy and improve the livelihoods of New Zealanders.
Moving to energy, which makes up 40% of total emissions in New Zealand, it is the government’s work to double renewable energy. Known as Electrify New Zealand, the policy strengthens New Zealand’s position as a world leader in renewable energy, with over 90% of our energy coming from the sun, wind, water and geothermal.
Investing in and making it easier to build renewable infrastructure is a key part of electrifying New Zealand. The government recently announced that 22 additional renewable energy sources with a capacity of three gigawatts are being fasttracked. This will increase New Zealand’s electricity generation capacity by almost 30%, creating more jobs, lower energy costs and fewer emissions.
Households can also play their part by electrifying their homes. Electrification of households can lower energy bills and contributes to a more sustainable future.
By prioritising policies that benefit our climate and the economy, we can reduce emissions to meet our climate goals and grow the economy. Innovation and renewable energy are only two examples of government policy that show we can have a thriving economy and a healthy climate, giving New Zealanders more bang for their buck.
Hon Simon Watts — MP for North Shore,
Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
09 486 0005
Facebook: @simonwattsmp Instagram: @simonwattsmp
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
Falling interest rates have a profound effect on various aspects of the real estate market, most notably mortgage affordability, home buying, refinancing activity and property investment decisions.
Lower interest rates make borrowing cheaper, increasing mortgage affordability for buyers. As monthly payments drop, prospective homeowners are often able to afford more expensive properties or stretch their budgets in competitive markets, driving increased demand. This surge in demand can push home prices higher, further fuelling the market’s momentum.
For existing homeowners falling interest rates present a golden opportunity to refinance their mortgages. Lowering their interest rates can result in significant savings over the life of their loan or allow them to shorten their mortgage terms without dramatically increasing monthly payments. This refinancing activity can also free up cash for homeowners which they may reinvest in property improvements or other investments.
For existing homeowners falling interest rates present a golden opportunity to refinance their mortgages.
From an investment perspective, cheaper borrowing costs make real estate a more attractive asset class. Investors are incentivised to purchase properties as their potential returns, boosted by lower debt servicing costs, become more appealing. This leads to an increase in property acquisitions, especially in high-demand markets. However, if rates are too low for too long, the resultant surge in demand can create bubbles in certain markets, pushing prices to unsustainable levels.
To summarise, falling interest rates can stimulate the real estate market across multiple fronts, but they also require careful monitoring to avoid overinflated property values and unsustainable levels of debt.
Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is an active Milford Cruising Club member. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Master's Degree in business and administration and speaks English and Chinese fluently.
Yan Davies 燕 021 585 590 yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz
Licensed under the REA Act 2008 唯一华人中介@ Bayleys Takapuna
New bar and eatery at Hauraki Corner is just the locally owned and operated spot folk have been looking for.
Perched above the intersection of Jutland and Lake Road, Hauraki Social Club sits proudly on the top level of the historic corner store building at Hauraki Corner. Head to the car park at the rear to find a discreet little alleyway entrance, up a flight of stairs as if visiting an inner city laneway, and don’t be shy upon arriving. HSC is not a social club in the traditional sense – it’s open to anyone.
With a warm, welcoming environment, it’s clear that it’s not just a place to grab a drink but a destination that has just what you’re looking for. With an array of delicious shared plates, creative cocktails and an extensive wine and beer list, there’s a very distinct commitment to community that has the Hauraki Social Club fast becoming a staple for locals and visitors alike.
Locally owned and operated, HSC is committed to a bit of something for everyone,
from a Tuesday Quiz to hosted tasting evenings, dedicated mums and dads nights, and the odd DJ appearance. Or just go and take advantage of the best balcony view in the neighbourhood. Since opening in August, HSC has become a regular stop for many as an easy spot to unwind after work and a lively place to celebrate the weekend.
Don’t wait to experience Hauraki’s newest gem. The Hauraki Social Club is ready to become your go-to bar for any occasion. To keep up with monthly events, from live music to live sports, be sure to follow HSC’s socials – just search haurakisocialclub.
Hauraki Social Club
Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki Entrance via the staircase from the car park haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
Persian and Mediterranean cuisine.
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
Authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. cafehungviet.co.nz
Calimero
Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. Corellis
Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafe.co.nz
Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery
The best of Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. 71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz
Devon on the Wharf
Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. 1 Queen's Parade. 09 445 7012. devononthewharf.nz
Flying Rickshaw
Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz
Khana on the Shore
Indian cuisine. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546 /021 689 216. khana.co.nz
Manuka Cafe and Restaurant
Mediterranean inspired cuisine. 49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz
Portofino Devonport
26 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3777. portofinodevonport.co.nz
Signal Hill
Serves classic NZ fare. 24 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0193. signalhill.co.nz
The Kestrel 1/1 Queens Parade, Devonport Wharf. 09 445 1777. thekestrel.co.nz
The Next Station Chinese Cuisine Hong Kong and Cantonese-style Chinese cuisine for eat-in and takeaways. 41 Victoria Road. 09 200 0683
The Patriot (Pub)
14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz
Vic Road Kitchen
57-59 Victoria Rd. 09 445 9797. vicroadkitchen.co.nz
Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar
53/55 Victoria Road. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz
Vondel
Vegan and omni eats. 8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz
Caffé Santini
Alessandro's back offering the best coffee on the Shore! 63c Lake Road, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com
Daily Bread
Freshly baked loaves and perfect pastries. 43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz
Hauraki Social Club
NEW locally owned and operated bar and eatery. Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Sheppards Corner
Authentic TexMex - a slice of Texas on the North Shore. 131 Lake Road, Belmont. 09 447 4377. sheppardsnz.com
XO Takapuna
Asian skewers and street style food. 333 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com
Independent owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving food to suit every diet, alongside craft beer, natural wine and small-batch spirits. We hold weekly specials, winemakers' dinners, as well as private and charity events. Sign up to our mailing list or follow our social channels to keep up to date.
Opening hours: Tues-Fri 4pm-late
Saturday & Sunday 10am-late 09 446 6444 hello@vondel.co.nz www.vondel.co.nz
Instagram Instagram @vondel_akl Facebook facebook.com/vondelakl
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
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
Fantail & Turtle
Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food! 09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz
Shake Out Burgers 09 489 8223. shakeout.co
Soho Thai 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com
The Grange Bar & Bistro
A favourite all-day bar and bistro. 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz
Alforno Italian Restaurant
34 Anzac Street. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz
Aubergine Restaurant
European and Mediterranean. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz
Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar
Italian eatery. 8 Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
Burger Burger
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz
Catch 21 Eatery
Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood.
33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. catch21.co.nz
Centro Café
447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277
Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz
El Humero
Colombian-style barbecue. Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz
Florrie McGreals Irish Pub
138 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz
Flourish Café
Coffee with a conscience, service with a smile! Help Project Employ trainees fulfil their goal of gaining employment. 19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz
French Rendez-Vous
French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites.
2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site
Hanoi Haven
Vietnamese cuisine.
40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz
Hong's Korean Kitchen
Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz
Hops & Claret Drinkery
136 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. hopsandclaret.co.nz
Nanam
Filipino flavours. 178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz
Regatta Bar & Eatery
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
The best of California's vibrant coast and LA street scene. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
Sakebar Nippon
Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style).
32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz
Taylors on Hurstmere
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar. 168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz
The Elephant Wrestler 138 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 8030. joylab.co.nz/elephant-wrestler
Tok Tok Kitchen
Asian fusion cuisine. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3988. toktok.co.nz
Tokyo Bay
Modern Japanese cuisine. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz
Wok 'n Noodle
Asian restaurant - tasty, nutritious food cooked right in front of you.
1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com
Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano
13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz
Birkenhead Brewing Company
17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi
Blitza Pizza
9 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 5006. blitzapizza.co.nz
Burrito House
Mexican food. 17 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 2095. burritohouse.co.nz
Chef Rasa Sayang
Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Road. 09 419 9788
Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.
19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266
Instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz
Facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz
Welcome to our 'home away from home' cosy haven, where smiles abound with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine. Each customer becomes part of our extended family, savouring not only the taste of our offerings but also the heartfelt care that accompanies every visit. Step into our café and let us wrap you in a comforting embrace of hospitality and flavours that delight the senses.
Mon-Sun, 7am-3pm. No surcharge on public holidays
447a Lake Road, Takapuna 09 200 2277 centroauckland@gmail.com Facebook @centrotakapuna Instagram @centrotakapuna
Takapuna’s latest eatery has just dropped anchor with plenty of sunny outdoor seating overlooking Hurstmere Green. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and coffee for dining in or taking away, the friendly 'crew' are all hands-on-deck to serve exceptional coffee, delicious staple café offerings and a number of seafood options, as well as a beautiful range of freshly made cabinet food. Top picks include their signature open lobster burger, seafood chowder, and tasty eggs benedict. Catch 21 is fully licensed and provides a range of beer, bubbles and wine. Open Tues-Sun, weekdays 7.30am-3pm, weekends 8am-3pm.
Shop 8/33 Hurstmere Road 09 484 0005
catch21.co.nz/menu CATCH 21
DIT
Dutch Bistro. 3 Birkenhead Ave. 0274613898. ditisit.co.nz
Fika With Me
Cosy café serving funky, flavourful Findian-inspired food. 5 Birkenhead Avenue. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme
Jose's Cantina
Mexican. 12-14 Birkenhead Ave. 09 218 6162. josescantina.co.nz
Moxie Restaurant
82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz
Mulan Malaysian Restaurant
243 Hinemoa St. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz
Primerose Thai Cuisine
6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz
Real Burger
30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site
Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant
52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz
Thai Yum Food Hut
23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz
The Curry Master
18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead
The Good Home
83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz
Anokha Indian Restaurant
140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz
Bunty's Burgers
Gourmet burger bar.
89 Kitchener Rd. 09 486 5711
Cave À Vin
146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz
Khu Khu Eatery
100% vegan and Thai-inspired restaurant. 91 Kitchener Road. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz
La Mexicana
13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz
Monthien Thai Restaurant
142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz
Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford
212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz
PYM's of Milford
Popular neighbourhood Milford village bar & eatery. 154 Kitchener Rd. pymsofmilford.com
Stanley Avenue
52 East Coast Rd. 09 410 0066. stanleyavenue.co.nz
Talay Thai Restaurant
83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz
The Hub Milford Bar & Grill
145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz
Tokki
Modern Korean restaurant. 87 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz
The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant
7 Milford Road. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz
The Engine Room
115 Queen Street. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz
Clarence Rd Eatery
124 Queen Street. 09 480 9600. clarencerdeatery.nz
Northcote Tavern
One of the best places for pub food on the Shore! 37 Queen Street. 09 480 7707. northcotetavern.co.nz
21 Days Bar & Brasserie
37 Clyde Rd, Browns Bay. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz
El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery
1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz
Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar 1 Montrose Terrace, Mairangi Bay. 09 478 9610. montrose.org.nz
Paper Moon 437 Beach Rd, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872. papermoon.org.nz
Ristorante La Spiaggia Italian. 470 Beach Rd, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643. laspiaggia.co.nz
San Marco Trattoria & Bar 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley. 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz
Promote your venue for Christmas functions and end of year parties in Channel Mag’s Eating Out Guide for our December issue.
Contact the team today for special rates
Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz 021 419 468
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz 021 204 3395
A popular and long-established family favourite restaurant facing Murray’s Bay Beach, serving authentic and delicious Italian and European dishes. The extensive dinner and dessert menu is available for dine-in. On offer for dine-in guests is a wide range of delicious wines and beers to accompany your meal. Buon appetito!
Opens from 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay 09 475 5643 info@laspiaggia.co.nz laspiaggia.co.nz
Opens from 5pm Tuesday to Sunday
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
Book your Christmas party with us! Set menu and packages available
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!
Winner Lewisham Awards, Outstanding Local Establishment, Auckland North 168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510
Licenced Eatery nowXmasbookings beingtaken
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
A premium bar with amazing tapas and cocktails. Cool and groovy with a distinctive underground vibe, Hops & Claret provides a refreshing retreat in summer and a cozy getaway in winter. Based on over 60 reviews received, Hops & Claret proudly scores 5 stars for food and 5 stars for service. Perfect for small functions or social occasions, catering for up to 40 people. Opens 3pm Wednesday-Saturday.
136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330 hello@hopsandclaret.co.nz hopsandclaret.co.nz Facebook @HopsandClaret
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday (no bookings needed) with traditional and authentic French flavours like beef bourguignon, gluten-free galettes and sweet crêpes.
Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.
2a Manurere Avenue
Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009
Facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna
Instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna
Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good - benvenuti! Wed-Fri 11am-Late; Sat-Sun 10am-Late. Happy hour 3-7pm.
Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz Facebook Instagram @sanmarcoauckland
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist. With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz Open 7 days, 11am to late.
Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas functions.
37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz
Takapuna Beach Business Association won big recently at the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards 2024. They picked up the Excellence in Community Contribution Award at the North and West Regional Awards Gala Dinner held in mid-October at The Cordis Auckland Hotel.
The evening had all 48 award finalists in attendance. The event was described as an evening filled with glitz, glamour and celebration.
Award organisers, the Auckland Chamber of Commerce reported that the winners and finalists were not just exceptional in their respective industries, but they were also shining examples of what it takes to succeed in the highly competitive business landscape. The event was a testament to the hard work, passion and perseverance that each business brought to the table, and it was a true honour to recognise and celebrate their achievements.
The Excellence in Community Contribution Award recognises organisations that implement initiatives that have a positive impact on the community and generate outcomes that have a longterm benefit. Initiatives can include but are not limited to projects, programmes, processes, systems, technologies, developments, ventures and undertakings.
This was the judges' comment when making the decision to choose the Takapuna Beach Business Association for the prestigious award: “The Takapuna Beach Business Association has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community through its many events like the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival, benefitting local schools, businesses and groups. Their commitment to creating a vibrant,
inclusive environment is truly commendable. Congratulations again to The Takapuna Beach Business Association. Your efforts are making a real difference!”
“It was a fantastic evening and we were all thrilled to receive the award,” said Takapuna Beach Business Association
CEO Terence Harpur, following the event. “It is recognition for all the hard work of our organisation, including our energetic board and team members over the last few years. It was a great to have many of the team at the awards evening to share in the success. I want to thank everyone who has supported the association, whether that’s through sponsorship, or simply sharing and attending our events/promotions. It’s a big team effort in supporting Takapuna and our local community – so thank you for all your
mahi and support.
“As an organisation the Takapuna Beach Business Association has continued to be very active with our targeted marketing campaigns and events to drive visitation and encourage spending in Takapuna. We have delivered over 30 public events in Takapuna, including a very successful major event, Takapuna Winter Lights event in July 2024, which attracted over 45,000 people over the four days. Other public event highlights have included our Christmas Carnival, Summer Days Festival, Chinese New Year Festival, Latin Festival, Taste of Turkey, Easter Festival and Filipino Festival, all attracting thousands people into Takapuna each time.
“We also hosted a series of markets, such as our Re-Generate upcycled clothing markets, Dog Day Out and Matariki Markets, as well as a series of activations in the new Waiwharariki Anzac Square, with support from the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board – including Christmas music in the square and Friday Jams, Food Truck Thursdays and Movies in the Square.
“Each school holidays we also produced activities and activations such as super hero performances and games days. We have also pushed hospitality-focused events with the Urban Wine Walk, Taste of Takapuna promotion, Wine and Light Night and Food tours.”
Congratulations Takapuna Beach Business Association from the team at Channel Mag. We love your work – and Takapuna!
Do you want something just a bit better than average? Have you explored the north of Fiji? I can highly recommend Jean-Michael Cousteau Resort in Savusavu Fiji, and if you have children they get their own buddy so YOU can have a holiday, what more could you want!
This boutique eco-friendly resort features elegant Bures alongside Savusavu Bay. It’s unique in providing a romantic luxury experience for couples whilst being family friendly. Surrounded by a marine sanctuary, pristine coral reefs and beaches guests of all ages enjoy an interactive experience.
INCLUDES:
MEALS, NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, TRANSFERS, ACTIVITIES, WIFI, KIDS CLUB AND KIDS BUDDY AND MORE
With an outstanding range of hospitality venues, we know we’re pretty darn spoilt here on the North Shore. We’ve cultivated a smashing list of where you can get the yummiest grub in Takapuna. Enjoy your culinary odyssey, foodie friends!
If you’re after something a little bit fancy, head to Regatta Bar & Eatery for a genuine Wagyu beef burger. Or for a boujee lobster number, Catch 21 is your destination.
For those who prefer to eat plants, we’d recommend a red-hot look at Rosie’s Red Hot Cantina, where you’ll find a hemp and chipotle burger in a vegan brioche. Burger Burger has an extensive menu of meat and vegetarian options, and non-burger options for those watching their carbs. A deep dive into the burger world isn’t complete without heading to Blazin Burger in Shore City.
So you’ve chatted on the apps and decided it’s time to meet in real life. If you’re seeking something casual, down-to-earth and relaxed, meet at The Elephant Wrestler. They have a great outdoor courtyard, and bonus points if your date is on a Saturday because if you stay till 8pm, it’s d-floor time with DJs live on the decks.
With the days getting longer, pack a blanket, pick up some Korean-inspired takeaways from My Fried Chicken and head down to the beach. Don’t forget to stop at Duck Island Ice-Cream for something sweet.
If you want a fair-trade organic coffee, head to Jam Organic Cafe They also have non-caffeinated hot options and alternative mylks. Take advantage of the free wi-fi at Centro Cafe. It’s the perfect spot to get caffeinated, relax, catch up on emails, or dive into that book you’ve been meaning to read.
Coffee Cabin is a cosy retreat for all things caffeinated and tasty. They are also pet-friendly so defo pop them on your dog walking rotation. When only an exquisite espresso will do, indulge in a little Italian coffee craftsmanship at Moak. You’ll be warmly welcomed by coffee enthusiasts who approach their brew with passion and care. Take the experience home with you and enjoy your favourite brews anytime
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
with their range of whole beans, ground beans and pods.
How about a Fairtrade organic coffee that leaves you feeling super good from Coffix? You’ll find two locations in Takapuna; Lake and Hurstmere Roads.
Flourish Cafe is a pretty special place, where young people with an intellectual or learning disability operate every area of the cafe. This enables valuable learning experiences and a stepping-stone to employment. Be sure to visit this training cafe and support their excellent work. PS They also offer free wifi.
For a coffee with good vibes and a side of quirk, visit Holy Shot
The baristas are super friendly and locals assure us that a visit will get your day off to a brilliant start.
When doing a spot of retail shopping at Shore City and find yourself in need of a mid-morning pick-up, you’ll find Kota Cafe on level 2.
While the coffee culture in the land of the flat white is strong, Majestic Tea Bar is breathing life into an old favourite: tea. When you’re after a less-caffeinated hot beverage, Majestic serves up 35 different fragrant teas and proper Belgium hot chocolate.
Seven Hills roasts its own coffee beans on-site and in small batches, resulting in a highly aromatic house blend. You can enjoy a cup at the café or order beans online for delivery straight to your door. Beans also available in store.
Another option for a cosy corner to indulge in a classic espresso or enjoy a seasonal drink is Starbucks. The inviting atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends, working on your laptop or simply enjoying a moment to yourself.
Stroll Coffee is a chic coffee roastery on the Shore, and the word on the street is that they take coffee seriously. Your cup will be extracted to perfection and the latte art is on point.
For the mornings you want a perfect flaky pastry to go with that killer coffee, pop by Glory Patisserie on Hurstmere.
While sitting on Takapuna beach is, let’s be honest, always a wonderful option for sea views, we recommend heading to Regatta Bar and Eatery for the waited-on dining experience.
With its floor-to-ceiling glass walls, stunning menu and views out to Rangitoto, you’ll find many Insta-worthy backdrops to practise the perfect pose alongside a delish meal.
Fancy a little modern Japanese dining moment? There is no sign of fusion cuisine at Tokyo Bay. Good honest and authentic Japanese food serving up a side of incredible views.
How about a little beachside moment reminiscent of the effortlessly cool Californian vibe at Rosies Red Hot Cantina? Open from 11.30am till late.
SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…
When you’re having a few cheeky cocktails with the girls, check out Taylors on Hurstmere. The Lewisham awards recently awarded them with Outstanding Local Establishment North for 2024. They also have an extensive craft beer and wine list if you’re planning to make a night of it.
Regatta Bar and Eatery has the view, the cocktails and the menu. Need we say more?
Before calling an Uber home, pop by Hops & Claret for a cosy intimate experience. Their extensive cocktail menu is absolutely phenomenal. You’ll love the warm, comfortable surroundings, perfect for catching up.
Broaden the family’s food horizons and enjoy a modern interpretation of Filipino traditional cuisine at Nanam. Not only is the food flavourful and well presented, but you’ll be treated to the famous Philippines hospitality.
When the kids are wanting woodfired pizza or pasta, make a booking at Italian restaurant Al Forno. Portions are generous and the hospitality is friendly. You’ll also find a few Italian beers on the menu that you may not find elsewhere.
Aubergine comes highly recommended for families, with friendly staff and beautifully presented food. This place gets busy, so if you’re thinking to head in, please make sure you book a table.
For an authentic Korean barbeque meal with the whānau, Gangnam Style offers an extensive buffet with a minimum of 14 different fresh meats available. This place is all you can eat, 365 days a year.
They say the secret to long-life is by eating a Mediterranean diet. Why not try it out at Sam’s Mediterranean Eatery? Sam firmly believes that good food is made with love, and has the power to nourish your body, mind and soul.
Teppanyaki isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience and it’s always a good time with the fam. Why not treat them to an evening at Daikoku? Under fives are catered for and children under 13 have a special teppan menu to choose from.
With sunrise views and a seaside vibe, Takapuna is the absolute best place in Auckland for brunch. We’ve got morning meal options for all making for a guaranteed great morning out. Head to Mimosa Cafe on Lake Road. They have an outstanding range of vegan and glutenfree food and serve up the excellent Kokako Aotea coffee.
Street Organics on Byron Ave is the perfect place for the family or group that have a few different dietary requirements – they specialise in tasty whole foods, and everything from vegan to paleo, gluten free, low FODMAP, organic, and most importantly – delicious!
Leaf and Loaf is a bustling wee café perfect for a weekend brunch with friends. Depending on what the weather is doing, you can dine indoors or out.
When you want a little taste of Paris, Frenchy’s Crêpes has you covered. Sweet or savoury, the options are plentiful and the crêpes are soft. One trip will have you wanting to go back and eat your way through the menu.
Feel like brunch in the afternoon? Sage and Brew offer an all-day brunch menu seven days a week. If you want to go beyond cheese and ham, pop by on Monday to Friday and order from their speciality toasty menu.
Now that we’re in daylight saving mode, there are more hours for frozen yumminess. Takapuna has all bases covered, starting with Takapuna Beach Café. Located right on the beach, it has a stunning range of gelato, ready for scooping. If you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan or unable to eat eggs, Duck Island prides itself on having an extensive menu that caters for everyone. Plus they have handmade waffle cones to boot. For a luxurious lick, Mövenpick scoops from 10am till 10pm every day of the week. If yoghurt is more your thing, KiwiYo has an impressive range of flavours and toppings, plus it’s easy to grab on the go, making healthy eating simple and convenient. While you’re at Shore City and feeling like a frozen treat, you’ll love all the ice cream flavours and toppings as well as delicious sundaes and iced bubble teas from Phat Phillip
For the full article and even MORE places to eat and drink, check out our website here!
Like and follow @ilovetakapuna on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with all things Takapuna!
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
Coeliac disease is a common illness where the body’s immune system attacks the gut after eating gluten containing foods. Gluten is a protein that is found in three types of grain: wheat, barley and rye. The condition affects 1% of the population. The risk is even higher if you have one or more family members affected – 10-20%. However, 70% of cases remain undiagnosed and coeliac is being increasingly found in older patients – 25% of cases are diagnosed after the age of 60.
The reason why it can go undiagnosed is because the symptoms are highly variable, and some people have minimal or no symptoms. The symptoms include:
• Diarrhoea
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Poor concentration.
So if your symptoms are very mild why would you worry about it? Studies have shown undiagnosed coeliac disease has been linked with many health problems, including easily broken bones, infertility, a low blood count and certain cancers.
Luckily making the diagnosis is usually straightforward. The first step is a blood test for coeliac antibodies. If these come back positive, confirmation is recommended in adult patients with a biopsy
from your small intestine. This is done via a gastroscopy (a quick, minimally invasive camera test where a small tube is inserted through the mouth, gullet, stomach and first part of the small bowel). Importantly, patients need to keep eating gluten to get an accurate blood test and biopsy result!
Treatment is also easy – a gluten free diet. The vast majority of patients get improvement in symptoms a few weeks to months after starting a gluten free diet, and more than 90% have achieved complete gut healing within a few years. Being seen by a dietitian is crucial as many foods that you would not suspect contain gluten, and accidental exposure is very common. A session with a dietitian can greatly reduce the chance of this happening.
At Waitemata Endoscopy, we accept referrals from GPs, other specialists and self-referrals. We can offer appointments within seven days by matching you with the availability of our experienced specialists and can guide you through the process of diagnosis and treatment of coeliac disease, including linking you with our dietitian.
If you are concerned you may have coeliac disease, have a chat to your GP or come and see us. To meet the team at Waitemata Endoscopy visit waitemataendoscopy.co.nz
Dr
Carl Freyer
(BSc, MBBS, FRACP) Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist
Can provide timelier access to an experienced team for your peace of mind
With increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy offers greater access to a group of experienced Gastroenterologists and Surgeons, dedicated to providing excellent patient care.
Appointments are available within 7 working days for most standard Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy procedures by matching patients with the availability of our 17 Specialists.*
Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self-refer via: www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/referrals
Or call us on (09) 925 4449 // 53 Lincoln Rd, Henderson // 212 Wairau Rd, Wairau Valley
Adam Bennett is a well-known figure in the local entertainment and events space and in the North Shore community. As well as running Highlife Entertainment with his wife Jo, the father of two is on the board of Hauraki Primary and Takapuna Football Club. Adam has organised hundreds of successful events including music festivals, unique event experiences and high profile parties. He has also organised many different charity events and fundraising drives. One event that Highlife Entertainment has hosted on the North Shore calendar for many years is the popular Sunsetter Festival. For 2025, this festival is being held in Windsor Reserve on the Devonport Waterfront. During October the event totally sold out – months in advance. A sensational result in these challenging economic times. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with Adam for a chat in Devonport during October.
AIDAN BENNETT: You must be thrilled to sell out so early?
ADAM BENNETT: Yes, we are over the moon. It provides us with a lot more certainty and we can organise the event accordingly. We are very thankful for the support and that people got in early to purchase their tickets. It makes our lives a lot easier.
What made you make the decision to take the festival to Devo?
I grew up on the Takapuna and Devonport peninsula, living all over Devonport at different periods of my life. I have always had a lot of love for the place. I have wanted to produce another event on the Devonport waterfront for a long time now. We used to promote a large event called the Sounds of Summer at
the Masonic Tavern and in its carpark many years ago which happened every year during the early to mid 2000s until The Masonic was developed and turned into apartments. For years after many locals have been asking us to bring something back to the Devonport waterfront but the timing just wasn’t right given our already busy events schedule. We then started planning to bring something back down to Devonport during Covid but ongoing restrictions delayed the timing of things. We finally decided to move forward with it all in 2023 and have been working on it all ever since to make it happen for 2025.
What do you have lined up for those lucky punters who managed to snaffle up tickets before they sold out?
We have some great house music, disco and live music from international acts Sneaky Sound System, Bermuda Social and the Loneliest Hunk. Some of the top wine brands in New Zealand will be on offer at the festival,
a range of delicious cocktails and tailormade food options from local Devonport restaurants and caterers. This is a higher energy and higher quality event so people can expect something a bit different than your usual food and beverage festival.
I know you’ve had a long-held ambition to do these things in your home patch for the benefit of the community and businesses. How are you involving local businesses? We have included a number of local restaurants and caterers on the event and we have organised things so they keep 100% of the profits from their event day revenue. We are also covering some of their costs to activate at the festival and providing them with a lot of promotion and exposure surrounding the event. Many of them are also holding after functions at their establishments in Devonport as well which will provide them with extra revenue. We have also donated a lot of tickets and products that have been used as auction items at different schools and sports clubs on the peninsula. Some funds from the festival will also be supporting a local community initiative. We are also promoting Devonport as a destination so people far and wide can keep it top of mind as we encourage more people to visit the area and support the local hospitality outlets and retailers.
Where does your passion for the community come from?
I love New Zealand, I love Auckland and I love our area. I genuinely want to see our country and our area in a better place. I have a family of my own as well and want New Zealand to be a great place for all of our children to grow
up in like it was for us. So my wife and I are pretty active in helping as many community organisations and people as we can when we can. I think we all need to step up and do our bit if we are in a position to do so, especially given the current state our country is in.
What measures have been put in place to ensure things go smoothly with this festival in Devonport?
We have pretty solid event, security, traffic and alcohol management plans in place for Sunsetter. We also have a wet weather postponement date in place for Sunday 19 January. There will always be learnings from an event in a new location but after producing 300 + events over 22 years I believe we have things mostly covered.
What other events have you got lined up for late 2024 and next year, 2025?
We have our Highlife New Years Eve event at Wild Estate Vineyard on Waiheke Island this year, and next year we have a bunch of local fundraising drives and events we are organising to raise money for Hauraki Primary School, Takapuna Football Club and other entities across the area in 2025.
It is no secret that 2024 has been very challenging for businesses. You are clearly still having a good level of success with what you do. What advice would you give for business people in the current market? We are still having some good success with things but we have had to put in a huge amount more work than usual to ensure that success. The last few years have definitely been a challenge and our entire industry has felt it along with many others.
My advice is that people need to pivot where needed, innovate and keep going forward. Have a plan (a realistic one) and also have a back-up plan. People need to be staying on top of any changes to their industry and also the potential impacts from the ongoing turbulence in the global geopolitical and economic environment. These tough times won’t last forever but the next few years are going to be bumpy so have smart game plans, a good vision and work towards a better tomorrow.
We are also promoting Devonport as a destination so people far and wide can keep it top in mind as we encourage more people to visit the area and support the local hospitality outlets and retailers.
What will Adam, Jo and the kids be doing to relax in summer 2025?
Everything New Zealand. Fishing, beach and barbecues. Bring on a hot and sunny Kiwi summer!
highlifeentertainment.co.nz
Shore City’s Super Weekend Festival was a huge success, drawing enthusiastic crowds and delivering a weekend full of excitement. The event was packed with live music, dance performances and fun activities, keeping shoppers entertained throughout the festival.
Live music performances from Auckland Philharmonia’s aspiring musicians, including the Passione Quartet, Hilton Quartet and Jack Erskine-Shaw Brass Quartet, captivated listeners. The audience was left spellbound by a beautiful string duo performance by Ahhyun Yoon and Rose Stevenson on violin, along with the highly anticipated world-class musical showcase by Aotango Duo, with Grayson Masefield on accordion and Andrew Beer on violin.
The dance floor came alive with dynamic classes and social dancing from La Movida, Street Swing, Rae Storey's Maypole Dance, a short and snappy showcase from the Northern School of Performing Arts, and NZKDA’s K-POP dance play. Auckland Tango treated audiences to a social dance display, seamlessly leading into a world-class performance by the Aotango Duo. West Coast Swing by Street Swing added a unique flair, proving its versatility of style, where you can groove to your favourite pop songs.
Families enjoyed sweet moments with candy floss and balloons by the talented Rainbow Rascals, and the circus performance by Flip n Fly Circus School added a captivating, circ-tacular atmosphere to the weekend.
Life Pharmacy Takapuna celebrated it's 50th birthday at Shore City, marking a milestone of trusted service from 1974 to 2024. Owner Shariar Jaber shared, "I've had some fond memories in this store," reflecting on the store's rich history. For 50 years, Life Pharmacy has been caring for the Takapuna community, with many more to come!
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
We’re approaching the end of the year and we’re in the middle of our Christmas shopping frenzy. However we know many of you also have other things on your mind!
You may be finishing a work contract and moving your personal items back overseas, your office lease may have expired, and you’re worried about shifting delicate IT equipment or important records. Keep Pack & Send Takapuna top of mind for all your year-end logistics needs.
November and December are big months for transitioning. You may be wanting your gear shipped to a new city for work – whether it’s in New Zealand or London we can help! We specialise at expertly packaging and sending whiteware, beds and electronic items for small moves.
Summer also beckons our adventurous side. If you need a hand transporting kayaks, surfboards or bikes Pack & Send Takapuna can lighten the load so you can stick to the fun stuff!
Sending corporate Christmas gifts? Whether you’re sending wine or gift baskets, boxed cherries or seasonal hampers, Pack & Send Takapuna can help you to nurture your business relationships. Speaking of business, if you have a small Trade Me business or a medium sized venture shipping several times a day, maybe it’s time for a free freight audit to review your year’s logistic spend?
Pack & Send Takapuna don’t just do Christmas sending, they can take care of all your end of year needs, whether you’re finishing up work and moving back overseas, a student relocating or you’re moving offices before the New Year – they can handle it!
Sending to Australia? Pack & Send Takapuna have an economy courier services for pre-Christmas deliveries to Australia offering lower price courier option for sending gifts to Australia. Send before 26 November for the best chance to arrive pre-Christmas.
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
Barry’s Point Rd, Takapuna Phone: 09 486 3355
Email: takapuna@packsend.co.nz www.packsend.co.nz
(09) 486 3355
Hon Simon Watts MP for North Shore
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz SimonWattsMP
Dan Bidois MP for Northcote
dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz DanBidoisMP
Having problems with your spa pool operation, even Automatic cover problems?
Shayne is an experienced technician for repairs
Specialises in Trueform spa pools
Contact Shayne Olliver on 021 0237 3214 or covers 4 pools 027 663 8605
If you live here. Explore Weiti Bay - Open every Saturday from 12 - 3pm
An effortless 30-minute drive from the CBD, and only 10 minutes from Long Bay, this gated community is the North Shore’s newest East Coast Bay. Featuring a private white sand beach and spacious sections offering stunning sea views. It’s the best of country living, without the commitments of a country lifestyle.
100% exclusive. 90% sold. Just 15 large 2000 m2 sections remain, spread over 230 acres of parkland that rolls into native bush and breathtaking coastal landscapes. If it’s room you crave, visit weitibay.nz Secluded beach, large luxury homes and
'Tis the season for beautiful New Zealand grown peonies. Don’t miss out and have to wait until next year, paeonia time is now. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
Sun's out, sandals out! Get yourself a pair of colourful Holsters. Available now at Yarntons. 18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011 69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 yarntons.co.nz
Bordallo Pinheiro - a Portuguese heritage brand dating back to 1884. We have a lovely selection of Bordallo Pinheiro collections that have just arrived in store. 73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz Instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
Sheepskin footwear for kids and babies.
34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679 thesheepskinfactory.co.nz 9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
Discover beautiful daywear pieces designed to take you with ease from daytime work and play to evening entertaining. Embrace simple, versatile styles and lightweight fabrics for a summer wardrobe to love. Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see and shop our collections in person. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com
Spring into the holiday season with Painted Bird Vintage, your go-to for authentic, one-of-a-kind vintage fashion! Enjoy a private, light-filled fitting room at The Aviary in Albany, guided by our sustainable personal stylist. Use code CH24 for a treat or book your exclusive in-person session now! 1 Titoki Place, Albany (by appointment) Follow @paintedbirdnz online paintedbird.nz
Get ready for summer with Beggs XL Plus. See our latest collections, designed exclusively for men XL to 8XL. Style without limits. Visit our store or shop online and discover your perfect fit!
121 Wairau Road, North Shore 09 377 4190, beggs.co.nz
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm Closed Sunday and Public Holidays
Perfect gifts for friends and family. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz
Get deck-orating with Resene! Refresh, rejuvenate and enhanceyour timber decking with Resene Woodsman Decking Oil Stain.Choose a CoolColour version to help keep your darker colourcooler in the hot sun. Available from Resene 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
Star Drycleaners at Glenfield Mall are your experts in professional garment care! They offer a variety of services, including dry cleaning, commercial laundry, and wedding and bridal gown care. Visit them in-store, conveniently located in the Level 2 car park next to Awanui Labs. Shop 216A, Level 2, Glenfield Mall 09 440 9922 stardrycleaners.cleancloud.site
Take your Christmas wrapping and decorating to the next level. We have an inspiring range of wrapping paper, ribbons, gift tags, cards, napkins and more in our pop up shop now open Mon-Sat 10am - 4pm.
235 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 479 3070 ribbonandblues.co.nz Instagram Facebook
Our fabulous melamine collection just arrived in time for your summer entertaining! This range sold out in two weeks last year so make sure you hurry in! In-store and online now.
30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
+ORC
+ORC
• 4x4
• 17” Alloy Wheels
• Roof Rails
• 12.3” Multimedia Touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• 360 Around View Camera
*Offer
• 19” Alloy Wheels
• Panoramic Sunroof
• 12.3” Multimedia Touchscreen
• Heads Up Display
• Wireless Phone Charging
• 360 Around View Camera
Beggs XL Plus brings style and comfort to the North Shore, exclusively for the bigger man.
Since 1933, Beggs Big Men's Clothing has been dressing Kiwi men with style, confidence and unmatched expertise. Proudly 100% New Zealand-owned and operated, we are thrilled to announce the opening of our brand-new North Shore location, making it easier than ever for men to find the perfect fit with XL to 8XL clothing.
At Beggs we specialise in providing the widest selection of International and local brands and styles to meet every need. Whether you're after top European-quality fashion or great value basics, our range includes everything from shirts, tees and polos, to jeans, chinos, shorts, active wear and formal office attire. Designed specifically for bigger men, our clothing is crafted to ensure you feel comfortable, confident and stylish, no matter the occasion or your personal style.
Located just off the Tristram Avenue exit on Wairau Road next to Kennards, our store is easily accessible with plenty of free parking available. We pride ourselves on good old-fashioned service. With over 90 years of experience, we know how to empower men XL-plus to embrace their personal style with confidence.
Beggs, 121 Wairau Road, North Shore 09 377 4190, beggs.co.nz Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm Closed Sunday and Public Holidays Online orders 24/7 (fast shipping)
Whether you prefer shopping in-store or online, our experienced staff understand the unique needs of XL-plus men. Shop online 24/7 or visit us in-store for personal style advice. Style without limits.
Dave, Roger, Daniel and David are committed to genuine customer service, whether it is personalised professional fitting and styling advice, or a friendly chat over the phone to discuss your clothing requirements.
Welcome to the second story in a series that shares the experiences of residents at Metlifecare’s Orion Point. Hear how they came to be there, what shaped their choice of retirement village, and what life is like since making Orion Point their home.
For artist Louis Statham, nature has always been his greatest muse, and at Metlifecare’s Orion Point, he’s found endless inspiration.
Nestled on a stunning peninsula between Hobsonville and Scott Points, the village offers breathtaking coastal views, expansive green spaces, and an abundance of bird and plant life – all within easy reach.
“I’ve always been fascinated by nature,” says Louis. “Living so close to the coast and mangroves, I don’t have to wander very far to find something to inspire my next piece.”
“Living so close to the coast and mangroves, I don’t have to wander very far to find something to inspire my next piece.”
Now comfortably settled into his brand-new three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, Louis has all the time and space he needs to pursue his passion.
“We needed a place with three bedrooms, one for us, one for the grandkids when they stay, and one for my art. I spend about 15 to 20 hours a week in my studio painting birds, insects, and flowers as part of a collection I’m working on.
My goal is to complete 100 pieces and eventually turn them into a book. It’ll take me another three years – but I’m having fun along the way!”
After a career spanning more than 55 years –from illustrating ads for The New Zealand Herald, to creating large-scale public art depicting 1920s and ‘30s New Zealand towns – Louis’ artistic talents have also left a lasting mark on Orion Point. When an unsightly electrical box needed a makeover, Louis was the natural choice to transform it.
“The electrical box stuck out like a sore thumb amongst the beautiful gardens – so I wanted to create something that would blend seamlessly with its surroundings. A pond with birdlife amongst the greenery felt like the perfect fit.”
Although art keeps Louis busy, he and his wife Sharon have still found plenty of time to enjoy Orion Point’s vibrant social scene. Whether it’s morning tea with neighbours, staying active at the gym, or attending happy hour and resident outings, the couple have fully embraced everything retirement village living has to offer.
As one of the first couples to move in 15 months ago, Louis has been pleasantly surprised by the strong sense of community.
“Everyone here is so friendly and welcoming. I knew the social side would be good, but we’ve made so many new friends that it feels like one big family.”
“Staying close to our own family was important to us, and our grandchildren love visiting – especially for the pool. They never want to leave!”
Although moving into a retirement village wasn’t originally part of their plan, Louis and Sharon now can’t imagine living anywhere else.
“Everyone here is so friendly and welcoming. I knew the social side would be good, but we’ve made so many new friends that it feels like one big family.”
“We watched Orion Point being built just 400 metres down the road from our home, so we decided to take a look. The moment I saw our apartment and the view, I was sold. Having a nice view was my one non-negotiable – and here, you just can’t beat it!”
“Sharon and I help on open days, and people often ask us, ‘We can see all the great things about living here, but what don’t you like?’ Honestly, we can’t think of a single thing!”
“We always say that even if we won Lotto, we’d still stay right where we are. We have everything we could ever want.”
Find a village that feels like home
Call Kirsty on 09 300 0518 | orionpointsales@metlifecare.co.nz 62 Tahingamanu Road, Hobsonville | orionpoint.co.nz
Our round up of posts from local jewellery brands on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Adrian from @fifthavenuediamondexperts
Adrian Turner knows a thing or two about diamonds; he’s been in the jewellery industry for 37 years and has owned much-loved local jeweller, Fifth Avenue Diamond Experts for nearly 20 years. Adrian and his team are diamond and custom design specialists, a career he says chose him after a varied career prospects such as the police force dog squad and becoming a vet. Adrian’s very happy with where he ended up, saying that he loves his job and the people that he and his team connect with.
“We’re a small and close team, and I am very fortunate to work with great people like Hannah, Gail, Nina, Giulia and with my daughter, Emma,” explains Adrian. He talks to Channel Mag about Fifth Avenue's presence on Instagram and preparing for the festive season.
Channel Mag: Tell me a bit about Fifth Ave and how it came about…
Adrian Turner: Fifth Avenue started in Hurstmere Road, almost 75 years ago. Next year will be our 75th birthday so it's a big one, and also ten years of being in our 'new' Hurstmere road location. The original owner named the store Fifth Avenue Jewellers to give that upmarket New York feel, as Fifth Avenue is a famous diamond and jewellery destination. The philosophy of the business over the years has been to continue to provide exceptional diamonds, jewellery and service, something we still strive to continue every day.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you when it comes to what you make, design and sell? Who do you recommend following and why?
Absolutely it is. We often get clients and customers coming in with designs they've seen on Instagram, whether it be a piece that they've seen a celebrity wearing, or a current 'trend'.
For us, we are always trying to keep on top of what's trending. We will often look at what's happening overseas so we get a feel for what we need to do here in terms of creating pieces for the store or custom/ bespoke pieces for clients. Apart from taking inspiration from Insta for pictures and designs, we follow a few people who aren't necessarily in our industry.
I recommend the following people on Instagram: Luke Kemeys is doing an awesome job with 'Keep the change'. He has built a really good online presence and it's very relatable for all Kiwis, giving you a few tools for Kiwis wanting to improve their life and financial situations. Highly recommend. Savvy social (Bri Barrett) is another, a great little powerhouse with social media and podcasts etc. Patrick (Paddy) Gower, love his work! Edna Swart (@edni.body) is a great businesswoman; she has built a great business from scratch by putting in the hard work and 'doing the yards', I admire that. From a jewellery perspective, we follow Cartier and Tiffany & Co, mainly to watch what's happening in that jewellery space.
Which other local businesses do social media well?
'Keep the change'; Edna Swart/Edni; Life for Men; My Jewellery Wardrobe; Channel Mag of course; AND CrossFit Kia Maia.
What items do you think readers should have on their Christmas wish lists?
Well we've seen a big resurgence of gold jewellery, especially things like paper link bracelets and chains. We've probably got the best range of gold we've ever had leading into Christmas. Van Cleef and Arpels' clover-inspired pieces and we have our new Fifth Avenue collection pieces. For diamonds, you can never go wrong with classic pieces like diamond stud or droop earrings and of course diamond tennis bracelets. Due to the challenging economy this year, we have really focused on having a variety of key price points covered in our diamond departments and across our gold range so we can help everyone find something special for Christmas
Visit Fifth Avenue: fifth-avenue.co.nz, 5 Hustmere Road, Takapuna.
We love the look of these beautiful quintessentially Kiwi designs from a Shorebased designer. @silverstonenz
Handmade in Mairangi Bay. Great to see behind the scenes of the jewellery making process on this account. @diamondstudionz
Gorgeous classic designs from Raphana which specialises in engagement rings with moissanite and lab diamonds. @raphanajewellery
COTTON ON
Aspen Statement Belt
Introducing the Aspen Statement Belt, this oversized and statement design is the perfect addition to spice up your wardrobe.
MICHAEL HILL
NOVO
Calloway Red Wine Leisure Sneakers
Meet Calloway, a fitting addition to your shoedrobe. This leather-look pair features breathability and versatility with contrasting black trim for added dimension.
Stud Earrings with Citrine in 10kt Yellow Gold
This pair of stud earrings showcases solitaire citrine gemstones, exquisitely set in 10kt yellow gold for a lustrous finish that beautifully complements the gems. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look.
LOVISA
Shiny Large Burgundy Coated Claw Clip
Upgrade your look with sultry burgundy tones using this stunning claw clip. The clip boasts shiny burgundy hues for a touch of allure, making it the perfect accessory for e ortless, on-the-go hair styling.
Crafted from durable cotton twill, these shorts feature two handy cargo pockets for all your essentials. With a knee length, straight-fit design, they o er both comfort and versatility. Pair them with a short sleeve shirt for an e ortless weekend look.
Unisex Short Sleeve Christmas Pyjama Set
TYPO Statement Planter
A modern planter featuring bold black and beige stripes, perfect for elevating any indoor space. Its sleek design and neutral tones make it versatile enough to complement a variety of décor styles, adding a chic touch to your home.
Match the family with these iconic Christmas PJs in fun, festive prints! Made from a light, woven fabric, these kids' pajamas will keep them cool and comfy all night. Plus, selected sets are also available in matching adult sizes!
FARMERS
“Make It Real” Assorted Jewellery Bracelets
Five fabulously coloured rainbow chic bracelets are the perfect treasures! Perfect as a gift for any occasion, each precious piece will o er colourful fun to creative tweens.
Give the perfect present every time!
Milford’s annual Christmas celebration event is back bigger and better this year. We’re starting at 10am for shopping and activities, with entertainment on stage from 11am until 2pm.
There will be lots of Christmas gift ideas, with market stalls filling the main street and village square, plus over 100 retailers will have a great range on offer for gifts and more. For the kids, we have plenty of activities and giveaways. Join the hunt to find Santa and his eight reindeer in shop windows and have your picture taken in our new Christmas cut-outs. Santa will be in his new grotto in the Milford Centre and on stage at 11.45am to midday. Bring your dogs along too – we’ve got 20 special Christmas dog bandannas to give away. We also have the amazing magician Alan Watson QSM on stage from 1pm - 1.30pm, great entertainment for the kids.
Milford is the best place for shopping and fun for Christmas 2024!
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 7pm
• Pizza Thursdays - $20 pizzas all day!
• All new - Ladies Lunch, daily 11.30am to 2pm $49 per head. Bookings essential
Milford Cruising Club
• Trivia Quiz night every Thursday night 7.30pm – meal starts at 7pm
• 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 4pm
On The Rocks
• Open mic Wednesday 8pm
• Thursday poker night 7pm
• Live music at 8pm Friday
• Karaoke on Saturday
• Happy hour every day 4pm-7pm
Pym’s of Milford
• Live music - Friday’s 6-9pm
• 1 Nov Jake Pancho; 8 Nov Jim Joll; 15 Nov Leah Kuhtze; 22 Nov Jim Joll
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association, manager@milfordshops.co.nz. 021 950 463. milfordshops.co.nz
Facebook milfordshops Instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
Shore Travel is here to help you explore the world, your way. We love to share our travel stories to inspire and help create personalised experiences for you. Here are some of our 2024 travel highlights.
Collette – Singapore and Thailand: It’s rare to find an island that has not been spoiled in the 30 years since I last visited, so avoid the crowds of Chaweng and head for Lamai beach.
We also found some quiet R&R at the beautiful cliff edge Intercontinental hotel. An absolutely stunning resort and well worth the longer flight in terms of value and a more cultural experience. Travel tip: Never look upon a transit as something to be endured. We decided to have a fabulous city stay in Singapore, where there is always so much to see and do.
Karen – Gold Coast: Visiting in October is an excellent choice for an easy family holiday when fun and sun are the ultimate goals! With so much to see and do, ten days was a great length, splitting our stay between SeaWorld Resort in Main Beach (to visit the theme parks) and an apartment in Broadbeach, to relax at the stunning beaches. Travel tip #1 Theme parks in school holidays are busy, so arrive early to get a couple of the really popular rides done before the big crowds arrive.
Travel tip #2 – The GC has some incredible dining experiences on offer; Miami Marketta was a family favourite. I recommend you save an evening to indulge in the delicious food, and enjoy the live entertainment.
Mary – Croatia small ship cruise: Regent Seven Seas Greek Islands; Northern Italy self-drive: As featured in
Our passports don’t lie
last month’s edition Mary has returned from a Regent Seven Seas cruise around the Greek Islands followed by a small ship Croatia cruise private charter with a group of 32 people. A perfect option for a special celebration with extended family or friends.
Renee – Viking Mediterranean cruise and Italian backroads tour: More details about Renee’s incredible Viking Voyage will be in next month’s edition. At the time of writing, Renee is on a Back-Roads Enchanting Southern Italy Tour, so pop in-store to learn more about this trip. So far she is loving the vivacious expert guide and boutique
Trusted travel advisors who’ve seen the world.
Like you, we love travel. The chance to discover new, exciting places, and create memories that last a lifetime. Shore Travel is here to help you explore the world, your way.
Cnr Kitchener & Milford Roads, Milford hello@shoretravel.co.nz (09) 489 2597 www.shoretravel.co.nz
accommodation. The Back-Roads bus is bigger than anticipated with large windows, so it is very easy to watch the world go by. Travel tip: bring two pairs of good walking shoes to change up the pressure points on your feet. You will be walking a lot!
Rinku – Bali: As featured in the August edition, Rinku had a fabulous time celebrating a milestone birthday in Bali with friends. She can help you plan your next trip to this special destination.
Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
the success of this event last year the 'Active Ageing Expo' is back.
As more and more people are living to be 90-plus, it is important to ensure that we stay active and happy during those later years. Keeping fit with a healthy lifestyle and exercise is a major factor but so is connecting with others and finding fun activities to keep us alert and reduce loneliness.
This is where our expo comes in with its mix of fun community activities for older adults. Our exercise demonstrations will inspire you to join the active ageing, balance and stretch classes. We have Scottish country dancing and even 'Laughter Yoga'. North Harbour Sport has lots of information on nutrition and ways to stay healthy. There are classes that you can join in the East Coast Bays from spinning and quilting to looking after your orchids, and groups playing a variety of adult games such as backgammon and Scrabble. These are a great way to meet new friends and to learn new skills.
Filling your days once you retire can be a challenge but there are lots of wonderful places you can volunteer. Support your favourite causes by helping them raise money and provide services. It isn’t just about donating money; time is a valuable commodity to so many charities and community organisations, and there are so many to choose from.
We also have friendship groups where you can meet new friends and build new connections which can help you to feel part of a bigger family. There are so many things to see that could make your life healthier and more enjoyable. Come and join us and let the fun begin.
Heart of the Bays - your local East Coast Bays community centre 021 034 0009 pam.martin@hotb.co.nz hotb.co.nz
At QUAY Travel, we believe in the power of travel to inspire and connect. Led by Michelle Malcolm, a passionate entrepreneur with over 35 years of experience, our team of predominantly women is dedicated to crafting unforgettable travel experiences, tailored for our clients. This month’s focus is on our female clients. Whether you’re seeking a solo adventure or a getaway with friends, we are here to design a holiday that suits you perfectly.
We’re excited to showcase Uniworld’s first-ever women-only cruise, which will set sail in August next year in Burgundy and Provence. We have also handpicked two women-only getaways to the vibrant landscapes of India and the cultural wonders of Sri Lanka. Connect with us today to learn more, or pop into our Apollo Drive office for a coffee and a chat – we have plenty of parking and lots of ideas to share.
Women-only cruise – designed for women, by women Uniworld has unveiled its first-ever women-only river cruise! A passionate team of women came together to create an unforgettable week, filled to the brim with unique experiences created just for this sailing. Guests can expect to immerse themselves in all things French, including new excursions, partaking in breathtaking nights out, mingling at cocktail parties, and lots of laughter and dancing. You will also receive special gifts to remind you of this one-of-a-kind trip for years to come. Bring your mothers, sisters, adult daughters, best friends, or any special women in your life, or embark on a solo adventure! On this cruise, you’re destined to make new friends during a week of connection, exploration, immersion, relaxation, laughter and indulgence.
Burgundy and Provence
One departure only, 24 August 2025. From $8,199 per person share twin
Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin on this exquisite journey through southern France. Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers and enjoy the region’s incomparable wine and cuisine while discovering its many treasures. Stroll the very streets of Arles made famous by Van Gogh, visit Avignon’s majestic Palace of the
Popes, and experience 'Village Day' in enchanting Viviers. You will also get to explore the unforgettable regions of Burgundy and Provence, where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills.
Women’s getaway to India - easy-paced 4-star deluxe Departure 7-22 March 2025, 16 days/15 nights. From $5,731 per person share twin
This tour is designed for women, with different activities and experiences, ensuring the must-see-and-do features of the tour are covered. Visit cities full of colour and culture, delicious cuisine, immense beauty and glorious history. The days are carefully planned with exciting sightseeing, activities, shopping, high-tea and spa time. All of this combined with the legendary Indian passion for service ensures you will get the very best out of your visit to this fascinating and enchanting part of the world.
Women’s getaway to Sri Lanka - easy-paced 4-star deluxe Departure 4-17 May 2025, 14 days/13 nights. Group size 4 min16 max. From $3,769 per person share twin
This tour combines culture and relaxation, taking in some of Sri Lanka’s finest historical, archaeological and natural treasures. You will visit tea plantations and have local experiences, while still having time to shop and enjoy the pleasures of a few days by the sea. This is a leisurepaced tour and an excellent all-around introduction to Sri Lanka.
QUAY - travel connects us
Your North Shore travel agency, specialising in all things luxury 2/49 Apollo Drive, Mairangi Bay 09 477 0212 info@quaytravel.co.nz quaytravel.co.nz
Discover unparalleled luxury with Quay Travel’s Exclusive Hotel Programme, offering access to over 1,500 top-tier hotels worldwide. We provide our clients with the best available rates and exclusive benefits, including complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, resort and spa credits, and late check-out options. Let us craft the perfect hotel experience for you.
Your North Shore travel agency, specialising in all things luxury
2/49 Apollo Drive, Mairangi Bay 09 477 0212 • info@quaytravel.co.nz • quaytravel.co.nz
This month we chat to a few Shore residents about their upcoming travel plans, favourite destinations both domestically and further afield, and what their most memorable holiday has been and why. Spoiler alert: Queenstown is very much loved by everyone!
Ben Panettiere lives in Devonport with his partner Paige, and two dogs, Charlie and Cleo. Readers may know Ben from his career in the vehicle industry. He’s currently sales manager at Continental Cars Ferrari and has previously worked on the Shore for other vehicle brands. Ben’s job involves lots of travel, something he and Paige love doing together too. Ben talks about trips to Italy with Ferrari and his upcoming trip to Japan in 2025.
Channel Mag: What are you looking forward to most about summer?
Ben Panettiere: Having some time off over Christmas for the first time in a long time, going on some road trips and enjoying the sun.
You've done lots of travel for your work. What is a memorable trip and why?
I was lucky enough this year to head over to Italy for the second time while working for Continental Cars Ferrari. It was definitely a memorable trip, being able to experience the unveiling of the newest super car and touring the Ferrari factory which isn’t open to the public.
What’s your favourite weekend getaway destination (and why)?
My family has a beach house in Whangamata. It’s the perfect weekend road trip away from Auckland. Our dogs love going for a run along the beach and some awesome new food spots have opened up recently.
Do you have a favourite holiday destination elsewhere in New Zealand? What do you like about it?
Queenstown is always a winner. It’s such
a great combination of scenery and going up the mountain for a snowboard, but also easy to find a spot in town for a few drinks and dinner
Any trips planned for 2025 (overseas or in New Zealand)?
Paige and I have booked a trip to Japan in April to head over for the Formula 1 and to explore, and we're hoping to head over to Italy in September and catch another Formula 1 race
costs nothing to find out.
What’s your favourite weekend getaway destination (and why)?
Waiheke Island is my go-to for a weekend escape. It's so close yet feels like a world away, with beautiful vineyards, beaches and a relaxed pace of life.
Nova Edgcombe is the lead hygienist at Mint Dental Hygiene in Takapuna, where she focuses on holistic oral health care and personalised dental hygiene. She’s lived on the North Shore for several years and loves the balance of coastal beauty and community here. Nova talks about her plans to go to Queenstown and her love of Waiheke Island.
Channel Mag: What are you looking forward to most about summer?
Nova Edgcombe: I'm excited about the longer days and being able to spend more time outdoors, especially enjoying beach walks and barbecues with family and friends.
Carolyn has been in travel for over 35 years and is the owner of helloworld travel in Takapuna and Westgate. She’s married with
Do you have a favourite holiday destination in New Zealand?
I love exploring the Bay of Islands. The mix of stunning beaches, history and the chance to get out on the water makes it an ideal holiday spot.
Caught the e-biking bug yet?
Not yet, but it's definitely on my list of things to try. It seems like a great way to explore our local trails and coastline.
two grown children who went to Kristin school. Given her involvement in the travel industry, Carolyn and her family have enjoyed a great deal of travel, both as a family and more recently as a couple. She tells us about her favourite spots and why the UK and Vancouver are next on the list.
Channel Mag: What are you looking forward to most about summer?
Carolyn Hedley: I’m looking forward to seeing my son Kieran, who lives in Bali. We’ll meet him in Surfers Paradise for Christmas. Last year we visited Bali and Lombok to see him.
What’s your favourite weekend getaway destination (and why)?
My favourite weekend destination? Well, I have two! One in New Zealand and that is Queenstown for the resort vibe and great wineries and golf courses, and my other one is Fiji, where we have enjoyed many family holidays.
Nova Edgecome
Any trips planned for 2025 (overseas or in New Zealand)?
I'm planning a trip down to Queenstown to enjoy the outdoors.
Visit Nova at Mint Dental Hygiene.
Do you have a favourite holiday destination in New Zealand?
We usually holiday in Pauanui. It is a great chance to catch up with family and friends down there, and my nieces and nephews who all have children congregate there over Christmas.
Caught the e-biking bug yet?
No e-bikes, but have done a couple of excursions on cruise ships.
Any trips planned for 2025 (overseas or in New Zealand)?
I have travelled a lot in the last two years, so next year probably a trip to the UK to see our daughter Kelly who lives there, and I have a conference in Vancouver to go to. I’m sure more travel will appear on the radar closer to the time too!
Visit helloworld Takapuna to book your next trip!
bookings@dyc.org.nz
Steve Deacon is a North Shore native and the driving force behind SEAL Plumbing and Gas Services. With over 16 years of hands-on experience and an 'Apprentice of the Year' win to his name, Steve has built a plumbing service that stands out for quality and reliability. Always drawn to water, when he’s not tackling plumbing and gas repairs, you’ll find him out on the ocean, boating and fishing.
Channel Mag: What are you looking forward to most about summer?
Steve Deacon: Taking the Kombi camper for a short break with the kids. There’s nothing better than getting out on the with the family and discovering our wonderful country when the sun is shining.
What’s your favourite weekend getaway destination (and why?)
Going to our family's Bach at Leigh to do some fishing. It’s an idyllic spot that is close to some very good fishing spots (Ssshhhh!). Leigh is so close to Auckland, but when we get there we can feel like we are hours away, yet it is only minutes away from Matakana, Omaha and the bright lights of Warkworth. And how good is the new motorway!
Do you have a favourite holiday destination in NZ?
I have friends on Great Barrier Island and I enjoy visiting that area for diving and the laid-back lifestyle. Whether it’s a boat ride to get there or a quick trip by plane it really is like going back in time. You can easily go off the grid and totally relax.
Caught the e-biking bug yet?
I have hired them at the Napier waterfront and it is amazing how much further you can go. We are seeing lots of these destinations (and Hawkes Bay is one) that have very good networks of cycle trails to discover. They’re creating them up in the Leigh and Matakana areas too I understand, so that will be another way for us to enjoy the area in the future.
Any trips planned for 2025 (overseas or in NZ)?
Just planning for this summer right now. We are keen to do some travelling in 2025 but just need to fit it in around family and a growing business!
Leigh is so close to Auckland, but when we get there we can feel like we are hours away…
When it comes to maintaining the perfect pool, Paramount Swimart in Takapuna is your trusted partner, offering an extensive range of pool and spa supplies and expert services backed by years of experience.
In a move that combined two of Australasia’s leading pool and spa brands, Paramount Pools merged with Swimart back in May, and since then the team at Takapuna has changed how we look at pool and spa care. Customers of Paramount Pools can expect the same level of quality and superior customer service as they’ve come to expect. Paramount Pools has been providing top-quality pools to Kiwis for more than 50 years, so this merger presents many opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
“Since launching the iconic Para Pool more than 50 years ago, Paramount Pools has become the trusted source of pool and spa advice for Kiwis,” explains Craig Wilson, director of Poolquip, the New Zealand-based manufacturing and wholesale operation behind Paramount Pools. “Both brands have a long history of delivering great customer service in this industry and their combined experience will only benefit them further.”
Don’t have a pool in your backyard yet?
Paramount Pools is the home of the classic Kiwi Para Pool and with over 50 years of expertise in liner pools, we offer free site visits to let you know how we can get the perfect pool into your backyard this summer.
Whether you’re happy to carry out your own pool maintenance or want someone else to take the hassle out of it for you, Paramount Swimart Takapuna can help. They understand that modern technology can make pool maintenance easier and more effective, which is why they source only the best products from leading brands and pride themselves on offering the latest in pool chemicals and pool equipment technology from high-performance and efficient pumps, filters and heaters, automatic pool cleaners, pool covers and chlorinators, to next-generation pool chemicals and water care accessories. The extensive range ensures your pool stays clean and inviting all year round.
SWIMART TAKAPUNA
11 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0622 (09) 441 7622 | swimart.co.nz
Swimart Takapuna can also offer finance options so you can spread the cost of your purchase over time. In addition to the huge range of top-notch products, Swimart Takapuna offers comprehensive pool services. For anything from regular maintenance and cleaning to repairs and upgrades, the experienced technicians are just a call away, meaning you’ll get maximum enjoyment out of your pool with minimum effort. And who doesn’t want that?
Swimart also offers free computerised water testing in-store to help you maintain perfect water chemistry in your pool or spa. Swimart Takapuna doesn’t just sell products and services, they can also offer advice and expertise; the team are passionate about pools and always on hand to provide tailored advice and solutions to ensure your swimming or spa pool remains safe, clear and healthy.
To celebrate the opening of the new retail store, pop in to Paramount Swimart, 11 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna swimart.co.nz/store/nz/swimart-takapuna
What’s included:
• Computerised water testing and balancing (chemicals excluded)
How it works
1. Scan the QR code to register.
2. We contact you to schedule the first appointment.
3. Enjoy your 2 FREE premium pool valet service visits.
• Empty all skimmer and pump baskets
• Check equipment for proper operation and leaks
• Brush and vacuum pool surface and tile line 2x FREE
• Backwash and rinse filter or clean cartridges
• Scoop and clean surface for all debris
By Steve Deacon
As plumbers, we see firsthand how crucial water pressure is to maintaining a healthy plumbing system. Whether it’s too high or too low, incorrect water pressure can lead to serious issues that could cost you time and money.
Regularly checking your water pressure is an essential part of keeping your home or office plumbing running smoothly. Let’s take a look at what impact water pressure can have.
High water pressure
• Strains pipes, causing them to wear down, leak, or burst.
• Stresses appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and hot water systems, leading to early damage or the need for replacements.
• Can be the hidden cause behind many plumbing problems.
Low water pressure
• Can make daily tasks frustrating, such as weak flow from taps and showers.
• Impacts the functionality of multiple fixtures used simultaneously.
• Often points to underlying plumbing issues that need to be addressed.
At Seal Plumbing we offer a complimentary* water pressure check to ensure your system is operating at the right level. If you’ve noticed banging pipes, leaky taps or unusually high water bills, these are often signs of high pressure. Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a costly disaster.
Book your free* water pressure check with us today to protect your plumbing and keep everything running smoothly. It’s our way of making sure your home or office is in good hands. Visit our website or give us a call today. *T&Cs apply.
Seal Plumbing and Gas Services - where quality meets reliability.
021 79 79 12
sealplumbing.co.nz
Jeremy
When embarking on a renovation project, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the importance of checking trades insurance. Whether you’re updating your kitchen or building an extension, ensuring that your contractors are properly insured can save you from future headaches and expenses.
Construction can be unpredictable; accidents happen and mistakes are made. This is why trades insurance is your safety net. It protects you as a homeowner and mitigates risks associated with property damage or injuries that may occur on-site.
Imagine a scenario where a worker accidentally damages part of your property. Without proper insurance, you’d be left to foot the bill and handle the aftermath yourself. Ensuring your trades are covered not only provides peace of mind but also establishes accountability.
Moreover, employing insured contractors signifies professionalism and credibility. It sets a standard for the quality of work and reassures you that they’ve taken the necessary steps to protect themselves and their clients.
Before starting your project, always request proof of insurance from your contractors. Verify the details and understand what coverage they hold. By doing this you position yourself as a proactive homeowner who values safety and security.
When using a project manager to look after your renovation, they have the responsibility to check all of their contractors' insurance and ensure that they are updated so that there is never an instance when someone working on the job doesn’t have the correct insurance. At Refresh Renovations, we hold Contract Works insurance to cover unfortunate accidents, along with Public Liability and Professional Indemnity. We take each job seriously and are happy to provide our insurance statement.
Embrace due diligence and ensure your renovation journey is as smooth and worry-free as possible!
Refresh Renovations
The Crate, 28 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay 022 682 1237 sarah.lowe@refresh.co.nz refresh.co.nz
Facebook Jeremy and Sarah at Refresh Instagram jeremyandsarah.refresh
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and director at Lake Road Electrical
With the festive season nearly upon us, it’s about time to break out the twinkling lights and eye-catching decorations. But before you start decking the halls, let’s take a moment to discuss making sure all your electrical setups are safe and sound.
Here are some top tips for electrical safety when setting up your festive lighting:
Go solar: Consider using solar-powered lights for your outdoor displays. They're not just safer, they'll save you a bit on that power bill during the holiday season.
Check your gear: Before you start decorating, give all your lights and electrical decorations a good once-over. Look out for any damaged wires, bulbs or connections. If anything looks worn out or frayed, it's time to replace them.
Weather-proof everything: Our North Shore weather can be a bit unpredictable, so make sure all outdoor lights and decorations are suitable for outdoor use and are securely fastened. This helps prevent any damage in wind or storms, keeping the season bright and your home safe.
Switch to LEDs: If you're still rocking those old incandescent lights, switching to LED lights can be a safer and more energyefficient option. They run cooler, use less electricity and last longer, letting you enjoy a greener holiday.
Turn it off: Don’t forget to turn off all your festive lights and decorations before going to bed or leaving the house. It's a simple step which greatly prevents electrical mishaps.
Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in ensuring a safe and joyful festive season. If you need any help checking your holiday light setups or have any concerns about electrical safety, give me a shout! Let’s make this holiday season safe and memorable.
Summer is just around the corner and many of your plants will be working hard for the next few months as they go through their most vigorous growth phase. Plus the weather can be pretty unforgiving with long periods of drought and heat, and then large downpours of rain.
Adding a thick layer of mulch, straw or bark will help to protect the soil form the sun’s rays, help regulate soil temperatures and, most importantly, reduce the amount of water lost from the soil to evaporation. If you want to help suppress weeds further, adding a layer of cardboard or newspaper six sheets thick before mulching will act as a temporary weedmat, and will break down into the soil so wont ‘sour’ the soil, as happens with traditional weedmat.
Watering your plants with a seaweed tonic once a week will also help make your plants more resilient to periods of drought. Keeping your plants fertilised and well watered will give them the best start. Pests are attracted to struggling plants, so problems can quickly escalate.
Neem is a great organic pesticide which doesn’t harm bees and also has some antifungal properties, so is a great option if you do see early signs of pests appearing on struggling plants. If the infestation is a bit heavier then we recommend pyrethrum, another organic pesticide. However pyrethrum does still harm bees if it comes into contact with them, so we recommend spraying as late in the day as possible when fewer bees are around.
When selecting plants, it’s important to note that planting the right plant for the situation will hugely increase its chances of success and will greatly reduce the need for interventions. Look around at which plants are happy in your gardens and neighbours' gardens, pay attention to amounts of light and water that the area you will be planting in receives, and select plants that match the conditions. If in doubt, check with your local garden centre which should be able to provide you with some great suitable options.
Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz
By Christine Young
Individuals and households need to be ready for the worst, says Lynn Dawson, a member of the Devonport Peninsula Emergency Support Group, which recently produced an emergency readiness plan and a pamphlet outlining what to do in and how to prepare for an emergency. Christine Young looks at what two local communities are doing and have done in the face of catastrophic and unexpected events.
Across Auckland, the floods of January 2023 caught many unprepared and far from ready. Lynn and others in the Devonport community already knew that a community plan is a critical first step in emergency preparedness, and planning had already begun. This has now resulted in the Devonport Peninsula Emergency Readiness Plan, a website (dpes@dpt.nz), and a flyer delivered to households and businesses on the Devonport peninsula.
Other communities are also undertaking emergency management planning, but with Devonport’s work starting several years ago, it appears to have the most comprehensive approach on the Shore to helping residents and businesses ensure they are ready for whatever comes. (Weather events are the most likely risk on the Shore, says Lynn, but the plan also considers events from pandemics to power cuts, earthquakes or tsunami.)
In 2021, Trish Deans was a member of the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board (DTLB), and initiated the development of a community response plan. “I was keenly aware of the requirement within the Local Government Act that local boards had a responsibility for emergency management,” she says. “I asked the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board for $30,000 as funding money to start addressing the issue and contacted Auckland North Community Development (ANCAD) to initiate a community emergency programme.”
Over the next three years, ANCAD ran a series of community workshops and employed a part-time staff member to work with groups
following the workshops. It now also hosts a community resilience website (ancad.org. nz/programmes/community-resilience/) that details the myriad relationships involved in successful emergency management and provides information on individual preparedness, the importance of connecting with neighbours and of developing community plans.
“Devonport has always had an emergency preparedness group,” notes Trish. “When Auckland Council became the supercity they dismissed community emergency groups –[providing] no support or funding.” Devonport continued, with volunteer support.
After the ANCAD workshops in 2021 and 2022 Trish organised meetings with residents, and a small group worked on a readiness plan. “It’s taken time but it has been a community effort which is the key.”
Lynn Dawson was one of those Devonport residents. Having lived through the Edgecumbe and San Francisco earthquakes, she knew that in a serious emergency, it's the local community that steps up. While Auckland Council has an overall plan, she says, each community needs to be selfsufficient. “Every area in Auckland should be doing this.”
Adam Maggs, General Manager Auckland Emergency Management at Auckland Council, explains: “Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland Civil Defence and Emergency Management Group Plan 2024-2029 provides advice and information about getting ready for and responding to emergencies. However, Community Response Plans are operational plans to support community members to understand how they will work together to support a community during an emergency.”
Communication with AEM occurs through community hubs and key community emergency response group leaders, marae, elected Council and community board members, Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ), Police, Hato Hone St John and Te Whatu Ora.
“We encourage every household to make a plan and to know your community’s plan,” he adds, as well as to consider vulnerable members of your whānau and what the school’s emergency procedures are.
Lynn says the Devonport group has communicated with FENZ, the police and AEM, as well as schools and the William Sanders retirement village (which each have
their own emergency plans), and was guided by the already-developed Resilient Piha plan. The group aimed to “allocate, distribute, and use local resources to sustain the community during emergencies until outside agencies can respond”. As Sunnynook’s experience (below) shows, support may be needed for much longer than anticipated.
The Devonport group is now distributing flyers, which summarise essential information, including key emergency contacts, a readiness checklist, and how and where to stay informed in the event of an emergency. The plan also identifies seven community hubs that can be activated to provide an initial “safe refuge and meeting place, where you can get information, support and connect with agencies”. Lynn emphasises that in a large-scale emergency, power may be out for some time, and usual forms of communication (phones, radio…) may not be working. She says every household should have a grab bag, battery-operated transistor radio, and some ready cash to purchase essentials if the atm system is down.
The value of Devonport’s newly minted plan is yet to be put to the test. However, even in the absence of a formal plan, community response makes all the difference, as Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre manager, can attest. She attended one of the ANCAD workshops about resilience and came away “quite appalled that every community was expected to fend for themselves for five days after a major disaster,” she reported later. “I didn’t for a second believe this would be the case. I was amazed that there was no funding and that each community had to design its own resilience plan. I made the bold statement that because the Community Centre sits on a flood plain there was no way I would ever be able to assist the community. How wrong I was!”
When Auckland was hit by torrential rain on the Friday of Auckland’s anniversary weekend in 2023, Bronywn started receiving ‘SOS’ messages. “I believed that the Community Centre had been completely flooded as I had been sent photos of the flooding around the centre from concerned residents.” She became concerned about elderly and homeless people in the area.
As the water drained away, she was relieved to find that the Community Centre itself was not flooded, but that other parts of the area had been badly damaged. Next morning she met with DTLB member Melissa Powell and members of the Sunnynook Community Association to discuss what to do. Brownyn remained at the Community Centre (‘HQ’) to act as a contact for anyone seeking help, while others went out to check on every household in the worst hit areas. These volunteers noted whether houses were empty, had residents who were okay, or had residents
who needed assistance, and sent information back to HQ.
As Lynn Dawson says, community pulls together in a crisis. Bronwyn put out call for volunteers on the Sunnynook community Facebook page. “We were surprised by the number of local residents who turned up to help. We also asked for donations…. The response was incredible. The local Baptist Church turned up to feed the volunteers, Countdown donated bread rolls etc and Mayfield Sportshouse in Wairau Road donated pizzas…. Flood victims turned up to have something to eat and have a break from trying to clean up their houses.”
Over the next three days, volunteers continued to assist and assess the needs of those whose homes were flooded. Without a plan, much of the support was given almost by instinct – and a good dose of common sense. The team learned “on the job”, put together food parcels, distributed donated items, and discovered where and how to dispose of contaminated furniture and goods. Finding out that every flood-damaged house needed to be logged with Auckland Emergency Management for assessment, and with a bynow comprehensive record of which houses were affected, this was done by a DTLB member and a volunteer.
Welfare checks continued for the next couple of weeks; the teams found a great way to check in on families was “to offer them a meal and have a chat to make sure they were doing okay”.
Sunnynook’s experience demonstrates the power (and necessity) of community in an emergency. It also demonstrates that the aftermath can be long. “A year after the flooding,” reported Bronwyn in a presentation to the Auckland Together Fund, “we are still getting people on a weekly basis asking for assistance with a whole range of issues.... We have a very vulnerable community and are doing our best to continue to support their needs (which are changing week to week).”
With a grant from the Auckland Together Fund, in the year after the floods the community centre continued to offer support to anyone in the community impacted by the
flooding or feeling anxious about the weather. Community dinners, delivery of food parcels and a community Christmas event all helped. Local retirement village residents still come to the community centre to continue activities while the flood-damaged village community area is rebuilt. And Bronwyn and her team continue to drop off care packages to local residents “when we know they are feeling low and need reassurance that things will get better”.
As a result of her community’s experience, Brownyn says, “We have discovered how important it is for each suburb to be prepared and have a close relationship with neighbouring suburbs so we can get assistance or we can help assist other communities on the North Shore."
Sunnynook is now developing its own emergency plan, following guidelines in the DTLB ‘Response and Readiness’ plan, due to be adopted this month. “We have a team of community leaders keen to make sure we are prepared for the next major event,” says Bronwyn. “Our group is in regular contact and whenever we have a concerning weather forecast we make a plan of action ‘just in case’.”
In any future event, she says, “We will set up a community hub at the Sunnynook Community Centre but this time we will be better supported by AEM. We have a folder ready on how to set up a community hub and have a list of equipment available in our local community. Our community leaders have 24/7 access to the Community Centre.”
But as all communities must, in an emergency, they will be relying on locals to assist as they did in 2023, on relationships with other communities and organisations, and on residents and businesses who have made sure they are ready – for whatever may happen.
Find more info at dpt.nz or aucklandemergencymanagement.org.nz/ community-ready or pick up a copy of the flyer or Devonport Emergency Readiness Plan at Devonport Library or other community venues.
At New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, we are once again proud to support a cause close to our hearts this holiday season. Each year, we set up our Woven Earth Christmas Tree to collect gifts and donations for survivors of family violence who are rebuilding their lives. This tradition is a powerful reminder of the difference we can make together during this season of giving.
For Managing Director Susi Matz, this initiative holds personal meaning. She reflects, “Each year, as December begins, I find such joy in setting up our family Christmas tree. I carefully unpack the decorations, untangling the inevitable web of lights, all while listening to a Christmas playlist my husband lovingly created for me. A glass of champagne in hand, this is my special tradition; a moment filled with happiness and anticipation as I await the arrival of my children and grandchild, ready to share in the lights, love and laughter. But sadly, not everyone can look forward to these simple, heartfelt traditions. For some, the year has brought circumstances that have led them to walk away from everything, with only a dream for a better tomorrow.”
Woven Earth, a charity close to Susi’s heart, offers critical support for families fleeing violence. Too often, these families escape with nothing. Once they secure safe housing, they face the challenge of starting over in an empty home. Woven Earth bridges this gap, transforming these empty spaces into homes by furnishing them with essential items, giving survivors the chance to rebuild their lives.
This Christmas, we are asking for your help. Under our Christmas tree at New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty’s head office in Takapuna we will be collecting gifts for these families. Donations can include toys, festive decorations, gift vouchers or even furniture. As Susi says, “Think about what you would give a loved one or neighbour. If it brings them joy, it can do the same for these families.”
The last day for drop off's is the Friday 13 Decemb er 2024
Key details:
• Drop-off point: NZ Sotheby’s International Realty Takapuna, 159 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna
• Last day for donations: Friday 13 December 2024.
Your generosity can bring joy and hope to families who are starting new traditions, helping them create a home filled with warmth and love. Whether it’s a toy to bring a smile to a child’s face or holiday decorations to brighten their home, your contribution will make a lasting difference.
Throughout the year, we also accept donations of furniture and household items. We work with Woven Earth to ensure these items reach families in need, helping them to start afresh and begin a brighter chapter. Together, we can empower these families and bring them hope for the future.
By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager
Takapuna North Community Trust AGM
We are pleased to invite you to our AGM on Tuesday 12 November at 4.30pm. Join us in remembering another magnificent year as we share tales of our triumphs and valuable lessons learned.
Connect with fellow community members who work towards flourishing biodiversity and weaving community ties. If you would like to attend, please RSVP by scanning the QR code and registering by 4 November.
Storm and flood resilience
Flood resilience is essential in preparing our communities to handle extreme weather events like those we saw last year and minimise their impact on our communities. By understanding flood risks, being proactive, and improving safety, we can protect our environment and reduce damage to homes and properties.
On Auckland’s North Shore, three environmental organisations – Pupuke Birdsong Project, Pest Free Kaipātiki and Kaipātiki Project – are working together, proudly supported by Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters. Our collective mission is to empower communities to care for our local streams, ensuring they remain clean, healthy and flood-resilient.
Search ‘Flood Viewer’ to find out if your property is at risk from flooding. Contact us if you would like more information on how to prepare for flooding.
Pupuke Birdsong Project updates
We’ve had a busy couple of months, cleaning up Wairau Estuary, mulching at Sylvan Park and exploring the rock pools at Takapuna reef. Have a look at the great photos below to see what we’ve been up to!
takapunatrust.org.nz
Facebook/Instagram: @TakapunaNorthCommunityTrust office@takapunatrust.org.nz 09 486 2098
Supported by:
From DTLB Chair, Toni
van Tonder
Kia ora everyone,
It’s been a good start to the month with the owners of the Firth property reopening public access along the Takapuna to Milford coastal walkway. This incredibly popular walk was sorely missed by so many last summer and throughout the year, and we’re thankful to the owners for enabling this to continue.
After just approving our work programme for the current financial year, we’re back on the treadmill again looking at what we can deliver in the 25/26 financial year. While other local boards around the city gained greater operational and capital budgets, we were one of the very few boards whose financial position hasn’t changed. We now have the unenviable task of prioritising what we can do according to asset condition and need. It’s one of the most difficult parts of the job, not being able to meet the expectations of different groups in the community. With approximately $5million in annual capital expenditure to renew every single council asset in need of investment in the area, there’s so much that simply doesn’t get done. This also means that the budgets to fund new items, such as the Francis-Esmonde shared path or a Milford estuary boardwalk, need to be found through the optimisation of underutilised assets, or by investigating a targeted rate. The board keeps an open mind on these matters and continues to investigate options.
We now have the unenviable task of prioritising what we can do according to asset condition and need.
Last month we had the pleasure of distributing over $100,000 to community groups to support them in meeting their own aspirations, making our patch of paradise more vibrant and abundant with opportunity for people to come together and enjoy life. This included funding to the Liz Soper Foundation of Care Trust which is leading a colour run at Allen Hill stadium, support for the renewal of the Milford Senior Citizen’s Hall kitchen, a contribution to the Takapuna Beach Cup event, funding towards a new glasshouse at the Ngataringa Organic Garden, support towards the Milford Rotary Club’s volunteer work planting all the flower pots in Milford town centre, funding for new lane ropes to support Takapuna Grammar School’s pool upgrade, funding for the Devonport Peninsula Trust’s kids' athletics series, new blinds to keep the heat in at the Glenfield Rugby League Club in Sunnynook, funding towards Ecofest, North Harbour Budgeting Service, Devonport Arts Festival and many, many others. There was over $400,000 worth of requests from 70 applicants, which shows you what a wonderful, busy and connected community we have, with huge amounts of volunteerism powering each organisation. Goodwill and community spirit is something that we have in abundance. Let’s keep it that way. Enjoy the finer weather, our stunning open spaces, and remember to shop local as your mind starts turning towards Christmas. We’re just about there!
Toni van Tonder, Chair, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board toni.vantonder@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Highbury Shopping Centre is delighted to announce a heartwarming collaboration with Downlights, a multiaward-winning, New Zealandowned social enterprise and luxury candle company. Together, we’ve crafted a truly special Christmas Gift with Purchase promotion designed to bring joy to our local community.
Christmas is just around the corner and to kick off the festive season Highbury Birkenhead is running a Gift with Purchase promotion. From 22 November – 15 December, simply spend $60 or more at participating stores and enjoy a free Downlights soy candle (valued at $24.95), while stocks last. To redeem your lovely candle simply present your receipt at Health2000.
Downlights is not just about beautiful candles; they are about creating meaningful employment opportunities for young Kiwis with Down syndrome and learning disabilities. Their team handcrafts each candle using bespoke fragrances and artisanal techniques, ensuring the highest quality while using 100% biodegradable, non-toxic soy wax with lead- and zinc-free wicks.
Make sure you visit Highbury Birkenhead from 22 November to pick up your free Downlights soy candle and together, we can all make this holiday season brighter, one candle at a time.
Highbury Birkenhead’s Gift with Purchase promotion runs from 22 November – 15 December 2024, while stocks last. Only available when you spend $60 or more at participating stores. highburyshoppingcentre.co.nz
By Kevin O’Leary, General Manager, Business North Harbour
It’s been a very long time, but I think that I can finally say that with most economic indicators are heading in the right direction, and the seemingly endless financial pressures being felt by many businesses and households are slowly but surely set to ease, as we look towards the future in a more positive frame of mind.
The easing of its strict monetary policy by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), who for what seems to have been an eternity, had stated that their policy needed to be restrictive to help get inflation back under control, was signalled in August, when the RBNZ reduced the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 25 basis points to 5.25 per cent. Another reduction in October, this time by 50 basis points to 4.75 per cent, provided the much-needed impetus for banks to reduce their interest rates in response, providing some immediate relief for people with loans secured on floating interest rates. Unfortunately, those people whose loans are fixed will in most cases have to wait until their current loan period expires before they will see the benefit of reduced interest rates, but hopefully by then we will have seen rates fall even further, with another OCR cut expected.
In addition to having to wait for fixedterm loans to expire, there will surely be a lag before consumer spending shows a sustainable increase…
The lowering of interest rates and the fact that the RBNZ has managed to return inflation to within its 1–3% target are the cornerstones of the recent increase in business and consumer confidence. However, we must be realistic. For most people things aren’t going to improve significantly for a little while yet. In addition to having to wait for fixed-term loans to expire, there will surely be a lag before consumer spending shows a sustainable increase and sadly, the current increase in unemployment is likely to continue in the shortterm at least. Thankfully though, we appear to be in a better position than earlier in the year when the economic narrative was more doom and gloom, with predictions that interest rates weren’t likely to be cut until late 2025.
Economists’ views remain divided as to whether or not the RBNZ could or should have cut the OCR earlier, but they are generally in agreement now that we should expect a further reduction in the OCR in November when the RBNZ makes its next announcement. Despite this positive outlook, the mantra of ‘survive to 25’ remains a reality for many businesses who are working hard to keep their doors open, until our perceived positivity produces tangible results that relieve the economic pressure, allowing them to thrive rather than just simply survive.
Please keep supporting our local businesses by shopping local and utilising locally available goods and services.
businessnh.org.nz 09 968 2222
027 479 9563
kevin@businessnh.org.nz
By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder
Key takeaways:
• Deep sleep, or stage 3 NREM sleep, is essential for both your body and mind to recover and restore but getting it is not guaranteed and relies on you supporting your body to achieve it each night.
• Achieving deep sleep requires the perfect balance between sleepiness, GABA and relaxation pathways being activated, magnesium at correct cellular levels, and adequate production of and utilisation of melatonin.
• To improve your deep sleep, focus on good sleep hygiene, manage stress, and be mindful about your eating and drinking habits. Keep reading to learn my 3-2-1 deep sleep rules.
Getting a good night's sleep requires you to achieve deep sleep, which is vital in keeping you healthy. Deep sleep is often called 'slowwave sleep' because it’s when your brain waves and body slow down, cool down and focus on recovery, your body repairs itself, muscles and bones regenerate, and your immune system fights off unwanted pathogens and gets stronger.
Most of this deep sleep happens in the first part of sleep, which is why those first few hours in bed are so important!
Are you getting enough deep sleep?
Sometimes it’s hard to tell if we’re getting enough deep sleep. Most of the adults we are tracking at SleepDrops using Oura ring technology were not getting enough deep sleep and had no idea. Ask yourself these questions:
• Do you snore loudly?
• Are you often tired or struggle to get through the day?
• Do you wake up feeling short of breath?
These can be signs of other underlying sleep issues that may need more attention.
How much deep sleep do you really need?
The secret to achieving deep sleep starts with getting enough total sleep. Eight is the magic number although we can fluctuate between seven and nine hours depending on our schedules. Deep sleep should be approximately 20% or two hours of our total sleep time to get a good sleep efficiency score. As we get older, we tend to get less deep sleep. Factors like medical conditions, medications or lifestyle choices can also influence how much deep sleep we get. The good news... our bodies are pretty smart and when we give them the support they want, they will respond positively.
Tips for getting more deep sleep
What we do before sleep has the greatest impact on how much deep sleep we get and our sleep quality overall. I have found the following 3-2-1 healthy sleep habit rules powerful.
3. Stop alcohol a minimum of three hours before sleep: Caffeine and alcohol can seriously disrupt your sleep. Caffeine is a stimulant, so it’s best avoided after lunch onwards. While alcohol might make you feel sleepy at first, it actually interferes with your sleep quality and can prevent you from getting deep sleep. Cut it out early in the evening if you must consume it.
2. Stop food a minimum of two hours before sleep: A heavy or full stomach can take up too much energy, put extra load on the liver and stop it from being able to process melatonin. Keep dinner light and away from sleep for the best deep sleep outcomes.
1. Stop other beverages a minimum of one hour before bed: One of the most common reasons people wake in the night is to use the bathroom. Decreasing fluid intake as the night progresses allows you to empty your bladder before bedtime. Adequate magnesium levels nourish the bladder muscle supporting it to hold full volume all night without signalling to wake you up.
Deep
sleep should be approximately 20% or two hours of our total sleep time to get a good sleep efficiency score.
The amazing benefits of deep sleep
We’re still learning exactly what each sleep stage does, but we know that deep sleep is important to keep us healthy.
• Hormone regulation: Deep sleep helps balance hormones like growth hormone, which plays a big role in your metabolism, growth and repair processes.
• Boosts immunity: During deep sleep, your immune system gets a much-needed boost to fight off illness.
• Learning and memory: Deep sleep is needed to process memories and learning, making it easier to retain and recall information.
• Clears out brain waste: Deep sleep helps your brain clear out waste products that build up during the day during a process called glymphatic drainage which, when it doesn’t happen, has been linked to confusion and dementia.
What happens if you don’t get enough deep sleep?
Over time, not getting deep sleep can lead to serious health problems, like heart disease, high blood pressure and increased risk of obesity and diabetes.
A solid sleep plan removes roadblocks to your sleep, manages stress and nourishes your various sleep pathways with expertly formulated sleep and stress support products. As always the professional team at SleepDrops are here to help. Email us at support@sleepdrops.co.nz or visit www.sleepdrops.co.nz
Devonport Residential and Waterfront Sales and Marketing 021 278 3024 lynda.betts@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/lynda-betts
Living on Auckland’s beautiful North Shore means being surrounded by the soothing sounds of the sea, the laughter of children in our parks and the vibrant buzz of community life. If you’re new to wearing hearing aids, you’re about to rediscover these delightful sounds, but you might also encounter some unexpected noises along the way.
Rediscovering everyday sounds
When you first use hearing aids, everyday noises can seem surprisingly loud or unfamiliar. Here are some common sounds new wearers often notice:
• Sea breeze whispers: The gentle wind along Takapuna Beach might create a rustling noise in your hearing aids.
• Hair and clothing rustle: Hair brushing over your devices or scarves wrapped snugly can produce unexpected sounds.
• Chewing and swallowing: Your eating noises may seem amplified during a meal at your favourite local café.
• Background conversations: The lively chatter at the Devonport markets might initially feel overwhelming.
• Household hums: Appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners may emit a hum you hadn’t noticed before. These sounds indicate that your hearing aids are working, picking up the rich tapestry of environmental noises. While it can be a bit overwhelming initially, your brain will gradually adjust.
Understanding feedback vs environmental sounds
It's important to differentiate between normal amplified sounds and hearing aid feedback. Feedback is a high-pitched whistling caused by sound leaking from your ear canal back into the device's microphone, often due to an improper fit. If you experience this, a quick visit to your audiologist can resolve the issue.
• Modern solutions for noisy moments
• Today's hearing aids come equipped with advanced technology to help manage unwanted noise:
• Directional microphones: These focus on sounds coming from in front of you, which is handy during conversations at bustling spots like Milford's cafes.
• Noise reduction features: These can minimise background sounds, making it easier to enjoy community events without feeling overwhelmed.
for a smooth transition
Adjusting to your new hearing aids is a personal journey, but here are some strategies that might help:
• Wear them regularly: Consistent use helps your brain adapt quickly to new sound levels.
• Start in quiet settings: Begin by wearing your hearing aids at home before venturing into busier environments.
• Strategic positioning: In social settings, face your conversation partner and try to have background noise behind you.
• Customise your settings: Work with your audiologist to fine-tune your hearing aids for different environments around the Shore.
Community support and connection
Remember, you're not alone. Many locals, friends and perhaps family have navigated this adjustment period. Consider connecting with others who have experience with hearing aids. Sharing stories and tips can make the journey easier and even more enjoyable.
While it may take a little time to get used to your hearing aids, soon you'll be fully enjoying the sounds that make our North Shore so special; from the crashing waves at Long Bay to the joyful social connections at local clubs and cafes.
If you have concerns or persistent issues, don't hesitate to contact your Ear Health audiologist - they're there to help you every step of the way.
Ear Health
82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck 09 242 0866
131 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead 09 480 5676 earhealth.co.nz
iS Clinical is a range of performance-driven clinically-validated skincare products that use the highest-quality active ingredients to deliver dramatic, visible results. Combining pharmaceuticalgrade ingredients with those that are botanically sourced, iS Clinical produces multi-tasking products that promote multiple improvements to the skin simultaneously. Meticulously formulated by a global team of experts using the most scientifically advanced technologies available, the iS Clinical range is not only powerful and efficacious but also gentle, nonirritating and elegant.
iS Clinical’s philosophy is that it only takes four simple steps to create perfect-looking skin. In an over complicated world, iS Clinical is about simplifying skincare to support the skin without compromising on results. iS Clinical’s multi-tasking products work in synergy to address multiple skin concerns with a four-step regime with products that are backed by science to provide optimal outcomes for radiant, healthy-looking skin. The four simple steps include:
1. Cleanse
2.Treat
3. Hydrate
4. Protect
Age-defying skincare regime
Designed to provide age-defying benefits addressing lines, wrinkles, skin laxity and premature skin ageing, the recommended protocol includes: Cleansing Complex AM/PM, Youth Complex AM, Active Serum PM, Reparative Moisture Emulsion AM/PM, Eclipse SPF 50 AM.
Brightening skincare regime
Designed to provide brightening benefits addressing signs of uneven skin tone and texture and a dull, lacklustre complexion. Cleansing Complex AM/ PM, Brightening Complex AM, Brightening Serum PM, Moisturising Complex AM/PM, Extreme Protect SPF 40 AM.
Calming skincare regime
Designed to provide calming and soothing benefits helping to nurture irritated and compromised skin. Cleansing Complex AM/PM, Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ AM/PM, Hydra-Cool Serum AM/PM, Eclipse SPF 50 AM.
Clearing skincare regime
Designed to provide skin clarifying benefits helping to address blemish-prone skin for a clearer-looking, smooth and refined complexion. Cleansing Complex AM/PM, Active Serum AM/PM, Hydra-Cool Serum AM/PM, Extreme Protect SPF 40 AM.
iS Clinical has a range of recommended introductory skincare regimes that focus on age-defying, brightening, calming and clearing.
… iS Clinical is about simplifying skincare to support the skin without compromising on results …
iS Clinical also offers a range of efficacious in-clinic treatments to address various skin concerns including the red-carpet renowned Fire and Ice Facial. The legendary Fire and Ice Facial is designed to rapidly and efficiently resurface and rejuvenate the skin with little or no downtime. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves the look of uneven skin tone and blemish-prone skin, resulting in a more youthfullooking complexion.
Visit your nearest iS Clinical clinic for your customised skincare treatment regime at isclinical.co.nz
By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH
Dental implants are an effective solution for restoring your smile but require special care to ensure longevity. Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your implants healthy and functioning optimally. Unlike natural teeth, implants lack the ability to fight infection, making regular hygiene crucial. Peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the gums and bone around the implant, can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. To prevent this, regular cleaning below the peri-implant tissues is essential. A dental hygienist can effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing may miss. Additionally, routine X-rays are important for monitoring the health of the bone surrounding your implants. These images help identify bone loss or other issues early, allowing for timely intervention.
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Modern hearing aids are more effective, comfortable and discreet than ever before. The benefits of using hearing technology can be life-changing. But with some premium hearing aids costing an eye-watering $9,000 and up, it’s worth asking what makes them so expensive.
Bone structure before peri-implantitis Bone loss after peri-implantitis
Unlike natural teeth, implants lack the ability to fight infection, making regular hygiene crucial.
To maintain your implants, follow these essential tips:
• Regular implant maintenance: Schedule routine visits with your dental hygienist for professional cleanings and assessments.
• Effective cleaning: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a nonabrasive toothpaste, along with special implant flossers and interdental brushes.
• Diet awareness: Limit sugary and acidic foods that contribute to plaque buildup.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking can hinder healing and increase the risk of infection around your implants.
By prioritising these practices, you can help ensure the longterm success of your dental implants and enjoy a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
Nova Edgcombe BSc, RDH Dental Hygienist
Mint
Dental Hygiene
424 Lake Road, Takapuna 021 2306517
info@mintdentalhygiene.co.nz
mintdentalhygiene.co.nz
A big part of the cost of a hearing device is due to the research and development that goes into this miniaturised technology. The hearing aid sector is relatively small compared to the mobile phone or laptop market. A quick Google search indicates 6.5 million people in New Zealand use mobile phones, versus about 215,000 people wearing hearing aids (according to 2021 Office of Disability Issues memo). Computer chips in the instruments are specifically developed, not re-used from other devices, and the casing, tiny speakers, microphones and accessories are also custom-produced. All components must pass strict safety and reliability standards since hearing aids are medical devices.
Hearing aids also aren’t ‘plug and play’ devices straight out of the box. Professional services for trial, fitting, programming and ongoing support are included in the purchase price, as well as a 3+year manufacturer warranty. You can see how costs add up.
The good news is that due to advances in technology, you get more for your money now than ever before. Not everyone needs to spend top dollar for premium instruments, even if they are the “latest and greatest”. Many more economical aids now offer features previously only available at the higher price points.
At our clinic, we have rechargeable hearing aids starting from $1,000/pair. With excellent sound quality, reliability, and ease of use, these hearing aids can also connect to a smartphone app and support Bluetooth streaming. This price of $1000/pair assumes you can get the government hearing aid subsidy. Most people in New Zealand are eligible for this subsidy, once every six years, and is not age or income-dependent.
Talk to us if you want more info about pricing and options. We offer all major hearing instrument brands and are here to help you choose a solution that fits your needs and your budget.
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
Flexibility is one of the most misunderstood and under-rated components of health. It’s the range of motion you have around a joint and this forms the base for building cardiovascular fitness and strength. Flexibility is largely genetic - we all have a baseline level of elasticity in our muscles which can be increased with practice.
We can improve on our baseline by approximately 20-25%. It’s like muscle mass – different people have a different amount in different parts of their body. Everyone’s muscle mass erodes with age, and everyone has the opportunity to rebuild it.
Fitness and strength activities work well together to form an empowering upwards spiral. The fitter you are the harder you can push yourself with your strength, and the stronger you are the harder you can push yourself with your cardiovascular fitness. Strong leg muscles help you run faster, running faster gives you stronger leg muscles. Unfortunately, as you move up the spiral you’re gaining strength and endurance in a limited or even narrowing range of motion. If you’re not actively working to broaden that range of motion then your body will become increasingly brittle and vulnerable to a snap.
Despite the benefits of being flexible, stretching fell out of favour about 15 years ago when studies found that stretching prior to sport can reduce performance by up to 20%. A lot of people still avoid stretching entirely because of the confusion about best practice. It’s important to understand the difference between static and dynamic stretching and the role of timing. Static stretching involves placing a muscle in its most lengthened position and holding for at least 30 seconds. Dynamic stretching involves stretching movements performed at a gradual speed. It is now generally agreed that prolonged static stretching before explosive exercise can be counterproductive because the loosening of muscles can temporarily weaken them. It’s a grey area whether there is a place for shortduration static stretching prior to some exercise activities.
What we do know for sure is that flexibility is important, and it can be safely achieved with dynamic stretching prior to exercise and static stretching post-exercise and in general. Any pre-exercise stretching should be preceded by a full warmup to make muscles more pliable. You should stretch to the point of tension, not pain. Hold static stretches for at least 30 seconds and don’t bounce the stretch. Unfortunately, stretching isn’t the solution for every problem. Each muscle in the body is like a rubber band and it has an ideal level of tension, not too tight and not too loose. We all have different areas of tightness in our bodies (which need stretching) and looseness/ weakness (which need strengthening). Many people think the time to stretch is after they sustain an injury but at that stage it’s possible the muscle is already overstretched. Don’t attempt DIY on your injury – you may worsen the problem by stretching when you need to be doing the opposite – resting first and strengthening second. The biomechanics of an individual body can be very complex and are best left to a medical professional.
A body that is structurally sound and functional is a huge asset in exercise performance and everyday life. Range of motion around your joints is an important component. Don’t wait till you’re injured –you’ll find yourself spending far more time at the physio than you ever would have spent on a bit of preventative stretching.
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
Joseph Pilates, creator of the eponymous exercise method, is famously quoted as saying “In 10 sessions you will feel the difference. In 20 sessions you will see the difference. In 30 sessions you will have an entirely new body.”
While it might seem that once-a-week Pilates isn’t enough to provide any real health benefits, studies show the opposite is true. Research indicates that consistent single weekly Pilates workouts will improve body awareness, muscle mass, flexibility, balance and core strength. Another study found that 72% of people with chronic lower back pain experienced significant improvement in their symptoms after only six weekly Pilates sessions and 30% felt a change for the better after their very first session.
Once-a-week Pilates is good, but three to four sessions per week is optimal (Joseph Pilates advocated four sessions per week). Multiple workouts are beneficial for many reasons. First, Pilates technique takes some time to master and the better your technique, the more you’ll get out of the workout. This creates a virtuous circle: the more often you do Pilates the better you get at it, the more benefit you get out of each session, and the sooner you will see improvements and changes in your body. Also, if you’re interested in weight loss, Pilates increases your metabolism and burns fat. Multiple sessions each week will keep your basal metabolic rate up, meaning that you will burn more calories even when you are not working out. How’s that for a bonus? Staying with any exercise programme is difficult, and the faster you see or feel positive results the more likely you are to stay with it. So, several Pilates sessions each week will provide positive feedback sooner, making it easier to keep coming back.
At Suna Pilates we are open seven days a week and offer over 100 weekly classes and private sessions, making it easy for you to find time for multiple workouts each week. We challenge you to feel the difference, see the difference and create an entirely new body for yourself. Get started with a $60 Intro Pack that gives you six classes. Additional information and other Intro Packs are available at pilates.co.nz
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
As a community, we should take heart that the future looks bright, with young people motivated and actively engaged in giving of their time, energy and resources for the benefit of others.
Jax Jiang is a senior student at Pinehurst School and someone who has embraced opportunities to give back by volunteering at North Shore Hospital and supporting the Well Foundation with recent fundraising initiatives for the Healing Garden and whānau rooms. I recently had the opportunity to attend an assembly with Jax to share with Year 9 and 10 students the amazing things that have been made possible for our local hospital thanks to the generosity of individuals and businesses in the community.
Jax has just launched a new fundraising campaign to raise money to support the purchase of ‘blue phantoms’, a specialised device used to help train clinical staff in ultrasound-guided cannulation. Anyone who might like to support Jax’s fundraising efforts can donate online at wellfoundation.org.nz/donate - please include WellPulse in the comments.
With giving being one of the five ways to wellbeing, it’s fantastic to know there are young people who are motivated to help others, share skills and resources and contribute to advancing our society. As I mentioned in last month’s column, it takes a village! 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
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction
During the school holidays, Shore Junction transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, buzzing with energy as young people immerse themselves in a wide array of exciting workshops and events. We offer a selection of activities, ensuring there's something to capture the interest of every young person who walks through our doors. From competitive e-sports and interactive games to journalling, creative arts and hands-on crafts, the activities are designed not just for entertainment but also to inspire curiosity and foster learning.
By learning the intricacies of coffee brewing and customer service, participants gained firsthand insight into the fastpaced, rewarding world of hospitality.
Young people also joined us for a working bee day, continuing to transform our outside space by painting the fence, pulling weeds and waterblasting, followed by a sausage sizzle.
One of the standout events over the holidays was a barista skills workshop, held in partnership with Starbucks. This one-ofa-kind experience offered young attendees the opportunity to dive deep into the world of coffee-making under the guidance of seasoned baristas. Participants were taught the art and science of crafting the perfect cup, from grinding fresh coffee beans to mastering the intricate details of latte art. As an added bonus, they had the chance to taste and explore new Starbucks products, elevating their appreciation for the craft.
Beyond the practical skills, the workshop opened doors to potential career paths in the hospitality industry. By learning the intricacies of coffee brewing and customer service, participants gained firsthand insight into the fast-paced, rewarding world of hospitality. Shore Junction continues to be a cornerstone for empowering young people, equipping them with both life skills and career readiness in a fun, dynamic environment.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
By Fantasia Nair
Looking for thoughtful yet budgetfriendly gifts that don’t skimp on charm or creativity? Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a savvy shopper, giving something special doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
From handmade treasures that add a personal touch to clever purchases that look more luxurious than they cost, these ideas will help you discover the best affordable gifts for any occasion. Get ready to impress without breaking the bank, because the best presents are those that come from the heart, not the wallet.
Clay is one of the most versatile materials to work with, making it perfect for creating unique, personalised gifts that feel truly special.
Whether you're moulding intricate jewellery dishes, sculpting small figurines or crafting simple but elegant coasters, clay allows you to tap into your creativity and craft something both functional and beautiful. One of the best things about working with clay is how accessible it is. Air-dry clay for instance, is affordable and easy to use – no kiln or specialised equipment is needed. Just shape your design, let it dry and finish it off with paint, glaze or even metallic accents to give it a polished look. Here are some examples of personalised items I’ve made:
How about painting or drawing on a canvas?
Few gifts are as personal and meaningful as original artwork, painting or drawing; an excellent choice for a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind present. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting to explore your creative side, painting or drawing on canvas allows you to express yourself while crafting something special for someone else. Try recreating a favourite photo with a creative twist! Acrylic paint, oil pastels and watercolours are perfect for this as they let your vision come to life. The best part about gifting an original canvas creation is its lasting impact. Whether it’s a painting that evokes a shared memory, a sketch of a beloved place or even an abstract design with the recipient’s favourite colours, your artwork becomes a deeply personal gift that they can proudly display in their home.
Here’s a picture of some artworks of mine including a present I drew for the gorgeous Liz Cannon and James Carrick, replicating one of their favourite photos with a bit of humour!
If your creative juices aren’t flowing, why not attempt a personalised collage of photos for a loved one?
Whether you use your favourite photos of them or you sneakily take a few candid photos, anyone will appreciate an album or printed-out collage of themselves! You can arrange the photos in a simple frame, create a scrapbookstyle collection or use an online platform such as 'Print Cloud' to design a custom collage, photo book or mug. It’s a heartfelt way to celebrate shared memories, and it’s both budget-friendly and easy to put together. Plus, it’s the kind of gift people cherish for years, making it the perfect personal touch without needing advanced crafting skills.
So get your creative juices flowing and get ready early for your budget-friendly Christmas gift-giving for friends, family and loved ones!
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.
Leadership has always been an integral part of life at Kristin. Students across all year levels have the opportunity to pursue leadership roles where their actions will help and enhance the experiences of others. This servant leadership model extends beyond the school community, with many of our students participating in activities that support the broader North Shore and Auckland communities.
At our recent Senior School Service and Leadership Assembly, the next cohort of Senior School leaders was proudly announced, including our Prefects, house captains and committee members. These students have worked incredibly hard to get to these positions, and they and their families should be incredibly proud of their achievements.
Congratulations to our 2024-25 Prefects listed below: Head Prefects: Cecilia Lin, Jayden Wang. Deputy Head Prefects: Sylvie Macfarlane, Ted Stapleton.
Prefects for 2024-25: Zaid Al-Sakini, Miriam Alshaar, Bailey Benshaw, Ryan Fan, Kiara GallianiFerrer, Angelina Ibrahim, Yona Kim, Archer Leavy, Daniel Martin, Mason McClelland, Sophie Preston, Eva Stowers, Marina Stowers, Rachel Tran, Abby Wendelborn, Mina Zhang.
Congratulations to our barbershop quartet, The Harmonious Klippers, and our boys' choir, Boystrous, for their recent success at the Youth Singers in Harmony National Barbershop competition in Wellington. The Harmonious Klippers finished third in the New Zealand Lower Voice Quartet, and Boystrous claimed second in the New Zealand Lower Voice Chorus.
Congratulations to Year 12 student Cam Hill who was selected to represent New Zealand at the Rotax Max Kart Challenge World finals in Italy.
Cam has been racing for just over two years and has already reached the top level of karting for his age. Later this year Cam will also be competing in the Toyota GR86 Series.
“I felt relieved after all the hard work and dedication I put in to reach this point; being selected is truly a rewarding moment. The primary goal of this trip is to compete for the title of world champion. I am eager to experience the thrill of racing in Italy, especially among a grid filled with some of the world’s best drivers,” says Cam.
A brilliant student-teacher connection through children’s books and the Chinese language has been created at Kristin between current Year 13 student Joey Li and Junior School teacher Mr John Lockyer.
What started as a personal passion project for Joey has morphed into his International Baccalaureate (IB) project and now much more than that, with a series of Mr Lockyer’s books being translated into Chinese and sold in the Chinese market.
Joey explains how the story began: “It started when I was tutoring younger children in Chinese when I was in Year 11. I realised there was a real opportunity to have New Zealand books written in English translated into Chinese, mainly to help Chinese children better understand the English language from a New Zealand point of view and to help them better understand Kiwi culture.”
Joey's mother is the adult Chinese tutor at Kristin and knew that Mr Lockyer was an accomplished author who might be able to help. Joey also knew Mr Lockyer from his time in the Junior School, and with the idea now solidified in his head, he reached out to see which of his books would be the best to have translated.
Mr Lockyer, a teacher at Kristin for over 30 years and a well-known author who has published over 300 books, was happy to be involved: “I gave Joey a box of my books to go through and decide which he thought would be best. The IB project was the main
priority, and I assumed Joey would translate the books himself and complete the project and then that would be the end of it, but it has positively snowballed from there,” says Mr Lockyer. A six-book series about a rugbyplaying Kiwi turned out to be Joey’s selection. The series was published in New Zealand in the mid-2000s, but with its print run now over, Mr Lockyer had the rights to the books back, making it much easier for the project to progress.
“I chose the Kiwi series because I grew up reading a series about a family of bears, and each book had a nice moral at the end of the story. Mr Lockyer’s Kiwi series was quite similar to those, which struck a real chord with me,” says Joey.
Upon selecting the series, the next step was to communicate with publishers at Tsinghua University in China, which
Joey luckily had a connection to through a friend of his father. A long year-and-ahalf process of paperwork, legalities and communications ensued. During this process, Joey experienced firsthand the differences in values and legal processes between New Zealand and China and had to navigate these differences, which threw up plenty of setbacks along the way.
However, as of June 2024, these issues were resolved, and the books were translated and published in China and are now being sold on China’s largest online marketplace, Taobao, as well as JD.com and China’s largest chain bookstore, Xinhua Bookstore.
“It is great to see the books translated into Chinese and published in China. Joey has done an outstanding job getting this over the line, and I am thrilled that these stories now have another life through the Chinese versions. Specifically for Kristin, I think it fits well, especially with our strong Chinese community and the fact that Chinese Mandarin is taught in the Junior School. We will certainly be donating some copies to the library for our students to learn from and enjoy,” says Mr Lockyer.
Joey’s next mission is to incorporate these books into New Zealand so that they can be enjoyed here by the Chinese community, and with his proven track record of dedication and success, it might not be long until we see them being sold on our shores and perhaps all over the world.
We are so excited to bring you the very first episode of our new podcast!
He Kōrero Wāna is here! Westlake Girls’ brandnew podcast, brainchild of Devanshi Bhavsar and Alex van der Loos, has arrived! Our first episode has something special – an exclusive chat with our incredible top two: Head Prefect, Candese, and Deputy Head Prefect, Georgia. These podcasts will give you the inside scoop on life at Westlake and all the amazing opportunities at our kura.
Don’t miss out – tune in now!
Casey Parker (Y9) dances at Mt Eden Ballet Academy. During the holidays, she attended the 75th annual ballet competition of the Auckland Caledonian Dancing Society dance festival.
She has worked extremely hard this year and danced beautifully. At the finals gala, she was awarded a one-week scholarship to attend summer school at Annette Roselli Dance Academy in Australia. This incredible prize was given to her by adjudicator Lisa-Marie Cullum from Tanya Pearson Academy in Australia.
Congratulations, Casey, on this spectacular win.
PHOTOS CREDIT: Beth Maskey.
Westlake Girls hosted its second Father-Daughter Breakfast in September, a memorable morning of connection and reflection. Held at the Event Centre, students, fathers, and male role models gathered for a warm and welcoming breakfast.
Highlights included inspiring speeches from former student Lynley Allison, who shared her journey of resilience, and Head Prefect Candese Mamaia-Hellesoe, who spoke emotionally about her uncle's role in her life.
Special thanks to Shakespeare Orthodontics, Craig Waugh from North Shore Flooring Xtra, and Ashia Ismail-Singer, (our school nurse), from Harcourts Cooper & Co. It was a very special morning.
Year 11 student Charley March has been selected for the New Zealand Under-17 Football World Cup squad travelling to the Dominican Republic, representing both school and country on the global stage. This is a fantastic achievement for Charley and Westlake – congratulations, Charley!
This month, a team of Westlake Girls and Boys competed in the intense five-day Hillary Challenge at Tongariro National Park. They faced 12 one-hour challenges, a two-day rogaine in freezing conditions, and a gruelling 50km multisport race, finishing an impressive tenth in New Zealand. Special congrats to Sasha Bosch for winning the ‘Toughness Award’ for the toughest female competitor!
Pasifika Night 2024 at Westlake Girls showcased 68 Pasifika performers and special guests from Westlake Boys, celebrating vibrant Pacific dances and traditions. The sold-out event, organised by the Pasifika Student Committee and Parent Komiti, received glowing praise from the 900 guests in attendance.
Westlake Boys had the honour of hosting Te Ahurea Tino Rangatiratanga, a kapa haka event that has been running for over 25 years. This year’s festival was held as a whakangāhau (non-competitive) celebration, focusing on the beauty of Māori performing arts.
We welcomed 22 groups from schools across Tāmaki Makaurau, with more than 600 people attending the opening pōwhiri on Friday 18 October. Our kapa haka ropū led the first performance, followed by other North Shore schools. Saturday saw 17 more
performances, complemented by stalls selling food and Māori taonga, plus a giant screen for outside viewing.
Special thanks to Matua Johnny Waititi and the Westlake rumaki team for organising this wonderful event.
Our 1st XI cricket team went on a two-week tour of Sri Lanka over the term break.
A highlight was playing against Rahula College at Uyanwatta Stadium, Matara where captain Logan Ferguson top scored with 116 runs and opener Ryan Coetzee scored 50. Westlake posted 269/5 and went on to win by 161 runs.
Overall, the team came away with a positive record of four wins in seven games. The players also enjoyed their downtime, learning about the rehabilitation of sea turtles and elephants. Another highlight was training with the Black Caps in Galle ahead of the national team's second test.
On Wednesday 25 September, we held our annual Scholars’ Breakfast event in the auditorium. This event was for students who are enrolled in both timetabled and extramural Scholarship subjects.
Students were invited to bring a member of their whānau to accompany them to the event. Scholarship teachers were also in attendance.
The breakfast was hosted by our student MCs Alan Bailey and Thomas Raybould (Year 13 prefects and Scholarship students). Our guest speaker was alumnus
Greg Vukets (class of 2016) who was both Sports Captain and Dux in his final year at Westlake.
Greg spoke about his time at Westlake and reiterated the importance of making the most of your time at school, with a particular emphasis on balancing work and fun.
He also spoke about his journey beyond Westlake, including his study overseas in Canada and the PhD that he is pursuing in psychology. We thank Greg for kindly volunteering his time to come and speak at this event.
Over the first weekend of the school break, Westlake Productions did a crazy and remarkable thing: putting on a full one-hour musical – 'Frozen Jr.' – with only 48 hours rehearsal. A large, enthusiastic audience enjoyed a production that was musically directed, costumed, created lighting designs for, rehearsed, and choreographed in only 48 hours! In fact, none of what was seen onstage, on the night of Sunday 29 September, existed at 3.59pm on Friday 27 September.
'Frozen Jr.' was a wonderful celebration of our outstanding Westlake performing arts community: its singers, dancers, actors, technicians, musicians and supportive staff and parents.
Over the school break, our cyclists competed at the New Zealand Schools Cycling Nationals in Timaru. Conditions were perfect for three days of racing, during which the boys competed in a road race, team time trial, and points race.
We successfully defended our title to claim the Top Boys School trophy. This is a significant achievement but winning the Senior A Team Time Trial is also special as this award dates back to 1968 and is the first time WBHS has won it.
Day1
THE HIGHLIGHTS:
U15 Road Race Ashton Sinclair, second U17 RR Andrew Jensen, first
Day 2
Junior A TTT, third (Ashton Sinclair, Blake Jeffery, Brandon Poon, Joshua Blayney)
Senior A TTT, first (Arthur Bird, Liam Lloyd, Harry Shannon, Marcus Hilder, Andrew Jensen)
Day 3
U15 Points Race Joshua Blayney, second U17 P Race Harry Shannon, second
The International Baccalaureate Prizegiving for Year 13 students was held in the Takapuna Grammar School library last month and was well attended by IB students, parents, staff and the senior leadership team. The prizes were presented by Mrs Nixon and the winners were congratulated for their diligence and efforts over the last two years. The Jackie Rodgers’ Cup for Dux of IB went to Sam Moffitt, and Proxime Accessit in IB went to Daniel Li. Summa Cum Laude was Judy Xu and the CAS Cup for Creativity, Activity & Service went to Sascha Letica. We are exceptionally proud of our IB2 cohort. We wish them well in their IB exams and know that they will be successful in their future endeavours.
Distinction
Distinction in
Distinction in
First in
First in
Distinction
Distinction
First
First
First
Distinction
…winners were congratulated for their diligence and efforts over the last two years.
Creativity, Activity & Service Cup
Proxime
We are excited to announce that after 50 years, we are investing in a significant upgrade to our beloved Takapuna Grammar School swimming facilities. This project will bring year-round heating and floodlighting, a state-of-the-art filtration system, and a 70cm deepening of the pool to support activities such as water polo. We are delighted to report that we have received building consent, and construction is now underway, with completion expected in Term 1, 2025. The benefits to Takapuna Grammar students and the wider community are numerous. The upgrade will not only provide continuous year-round access to a variety of local water-based activities. but will also enhance water safety for over 10,000 students over the next decade; ensuring every child in our area feels safe and capable in the water. Deepening the pool will also create a home for water polo, a facility that has been previously unavailable until now. This upgrade will allow this sport, and many others, to
thrive. Sir Stephen Tindall has already committed to this valuable project which is why we are naming it the Sir Stephen Tindall Pool.
We would also be honoured to have your name featured on our supporter’s donor wall, celebrating your generous
Find us at
support. All donations are welcome as every dollar makes a difference. We invite you to be part of this exciting journey by donating via the link on our school website. We look forward to our students and the wider community enjoying this fantastic facility.
A bronze medal at the Secondary Schools National basketball tournament topped off a great season for the Rosmini College Premier team, which included a bronze at the 3 x 3 nationals and silver in the Premier competition.
Held during the school holidays and organised by Basketball New Zealand, this competitive tournament sees the top secondary school teams from around the country compete for the national title.
Rosmini had a dream run through the pool phase, winning all of their games. The quarter final saw them play Fielding High School, winning 87-66, before going down in the semis to eventual silver medalist Napier Boys 57-72.
The playoff for third place against Wellington College resulted in an exciting 100-81 win, with top scorers Chris Wyllie 26, Jameer Reed 21, Hunter Johns 13, Josh Wyllie 13, Matt Dalton 11 and Bart Jackowski 10. Special mention goes to Bart for being named in the tournament's All-Star Five.
Five Rosmini economics students were awarded High Distinction in the 2024 New Zealand Economics Competition with Auckland University.
Congratulations to Daniel Martin, Salvador Cronje, Malachi Scharneck (Y12), and Jayden Clark and Bart Jackowski (Y13).
Close to 3000 students sat this examination in June and High Distinction is awarded to the top 10% of students in the country.
The award ceremony was held at University of Auckland on Friday 11 October, with guest speaker Daniel Trinder, Executive Director Strategy and Design at the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) and Honorary Professor in Economics at Queen Mary University of London, presenting the awards.
Rosmini College Young Vinnies have had a busy few weeks serving the community in line with the school’s motto: Charity fulfils the law. During the holidays eight students travelled to the Race 4 Life Trust track day at Hampton Downs where they helped with the setting up of the dining hall for a group of 96 palliative care patients and their whānau. The boys then acted as waiters before assisting in cleaning up. At the end of the day the boys were treated to hot laps in some of the race cars.
Rosmini and Carmel College recently collaborated for Travelling Pots, which is aimed at providing meals for those in need within the community. Students participated in the entire process, from food preparation to packing, resulting in the creation of 86 meals, which were delivered to the St Vincent De Paul foodbank.
Young Vinnies leaders also celebrated the feast day of St Vincent de Paul at St Patrick's Cathedral with Monsignor Bernard Kiely. Four leaders received recognition for their service towards their school and wider communitycongratulations to Dani Mathew, TJ Tecson, Kevin Vinish and Radeesha De Silva.
Rosmini junior water polo has proved to be a dominant force in the North Harbour league, with all three teams taking home medals in their finals.
It was an exciting final for Rosmini Junior A against Kristin A, with the score being tied 7-7 at the whistle. In the penalty shootout cool heads and patience paid off with all five shooters making their shot and a final score of 12-11, giving the Rosmini team the gold medal.
Junior B played Whangaparaoa College A in their B grade final, fighting hard against tough competition to claim the silver medal. The team's record this season was solid with only two narrow losses from 12 games this season.
Junior C took out their gold final against Mahurangi College 9-6. The team had a great season record with only one loss over the last two terms of play.
Rangitoto College is immensely proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Year 10 student Juwon Kim, who recently made a remarkable impression at the 2024 Jack Newton International Junior Classic Golf Tournament. Competing in Australia, Juwon stood out as the youngest contestant, at 14 years old, at the event. Her skill and determination shone brightly throughout the competition, culminating in an impressive overall third place finish.
In a field of talented young golfers, Juwon secured her spot in first place in the 15-year-old division, finishing an impressive eight strokes ahead of the second placed contender. Her performance over the four rounds was nothing short of exceptional, with scores of 74, 70, 72, and 72, bringing her total to an outstanding -4.
Juwon’s success in this prestigious tournament is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. We are incredibly proud of Juwon and her remarkable accomplishments on the international stage. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for this promising young athlete!
During the Term 3 holidays, a group of 13 dedicated Year 11 and Year 12 students from Rangitoto College took on the challenge of the New Zealand Chemistry Olympiad exam, putting their chemistry knowledge to the ultimate test. This prestigious competition, held annually, allows students to engage with complex concepts and apply their skills in a rigorous setting, fostering a deeper appreciation for the subject.
Rangitoto College is thrilled to announce that three of our standout participants – Joshua Wang, Gus Rose, and Leo Wang – achieved gold medals for their remarkable performances. Notably, Joshua Wang excelled with an impressive score of 92.5%, showcasing not only his mastery of chemistry but also his commitment to academic excellence.
Of the 13 students who participated in this year's Olympiad, a remarkable 11 returned with accolades, earning bronze, silver, or gold medals. This achievement speaks volumes about the talent and hard work of our students.
The New Zealand Chemistry Olympiad is more than just a competition; it is an opportunity for young chemists to challenge themselves, collaborate with peers, and explore the exciting world of chemistry. We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication our students have demonstrated. Congratulations to all participants for their outstanding achievements!
Whakaoho tangata, whakahauora ngākau Awaken people, reinvigorate hearts
On 16 October, Rangitoto College held the third annual Pīpīwharauroa Festival of Mātauranga Māori. Our Pīpīwhararauroa Festival connects our Mid Bays Kāhui Ako community as we journey through mātauranga Māori and continue to live and embed tikanga and te ao Māori values
into our kura. This year the festival was held in the afternoon for a beautiful twilight celebration.
Our Pīpīwharauroa Festival saw an array of cultural performances from rōpū across the whenua of our community. We had kapa haka and Pacifica performances, food trucks, stalls including face paint, art prints, kākahu, taonga, cultural kai from
the Cook Islands and the Rangitoto Islamic Association, and crystal taonga being sold. This event extended beyond just Māori culture and became an expression of togetherness. This year’s Pīpīwharauroa Festival was a celebration for all and an opportunity to uplift each other’s cultures under the mana of mātauranga Māori.
Hope William was one of the Rangitoto students who performed on the day. She describes the festival as “a wonderful experience with schools from all over Auckland coming to participate. It is celebrating the migration of the Pīpīwharauroa bird back to Aotearoa. Many schools were involved in performing kapa haka, Samoan sivas, Tongan dance, hip hop, and more. The audience and supporters really helped hype up the people on stage by cheering them on which encouraged students to grow more confident. Many Rangitoto students, teachers, and whānau were there supporting performers; you could look out and know they were proud of you. The experience on stage was scary because you had to get up in front of a crowd, but seeing whānau there made me feel happiness and pushed me to do my best.”
Our recent French school trip to Tahiti was an unforgettable experience, filled with adventure, learning and cultural immersion. The excitement began from the moment we arrived in Papeete and were greeted with fragrant flower leis.
A highlight of the trip was the five-night stay at the wonderful Fare Om on Moorea island, where Isabelle Ozan and her team provided warm, family-style hospitality. Their care and friendliness made us feel right at home and the delicious, fresh meals they served for breakfast, lunch and dinner were a treat.
During time on the islands of Moorea and Tahiti, the students made the most of a range of exciting activities. There was snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, a treetop adventure course in the mountains, hiking through pineapple fields, visits to markets and a tour around the island, and of course, French lessons! The students also engaged in traditional Tahitian cultural activities like dance, drumming and coconut scraping, adding depth to their understanding of the local culture. The students had French lessons every morning, which really helped them develop their confidence in speaking French.
The trip ended with savouring a mix of French and Tahitian cuisine at the famous waterfront Roulottes, providing a true taste of island life.
The trip was a resounding success, with students gaining confidence, forming new friendships, and diving deep into both the French language and Tahitian culture. It was a very special journey of personal growth and shared memories.
There are 17 issues of the 'North Shore Gazette' for the 1945 to 1948 period on The Preserving Local History and Educational Trust website preservinglocalhistory.recollectcms.com/.
There are also just two from 1934 and two from 1936. All but two issues were donated by Devonport Museum, while the former North Shore Historical Society helped fund some of the preservation work. Also included in the trust's digitisation are all 11 issues of the 'Northcote Athenaeum Meteor', which was published annually from 1905 to 1915. The athenaeum was a literary, musical, debating and dramatic society formed in Northcote in 1903.
The 'North Shore Gazette' issues for 5 March 1934, 28 June 1934, 8 October 1936 and 15 October 1936 cover a time of extended economic depression. The two 1934 issues are for the eightpage 'North Shore Gazette and Victoria Theatre Courier', continuing the link with that cinema, and one includes a report from the Women's Branch of the Devonport Unemployed Association. Those issues for 1936 detail activities by both the Devonport and Takapuna RSAs furthering the wellbeing of their members and families.
By David Verran
commitment to building the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the Naval dockyard expanding into Patuone Place.
There are only 14 issues of the 'North Shore Gazette' for the 4 October 1945 to 12 September 1946 period, with the remainder just those dated 6 May and 13 March 1947 and 12 May 1948. Nevertheless, that does enable at least a partial overview for the immediate post-war period. The war in Europe had ended on 8 May 1945, while Japan formally surrendered on 15 August 1945.
Noting the return of former prisoners of war on the ship 'Dominion Monarch', the 'Gazette' also described Vauxhall Tennis Club's welcome home for club members previously serving overseas. The Devonport RSA had ambitious post-war plans for developing its premises.
The Takapuna Borough Council reported shortages of labour and materials for its road and drainage work, while house-building suffered from a post-war acute shortage of building materials. There was also a report on the Devonport Transit Camp, offering temporary accommodation. In March 1947, the recently elected Labour M.P. for North Shore, Dr. A. M. Finlay, reported on the Labour government's
The 'Gazette' still regularly publicised films at the Victoria cinema, emphasising how important regular film-going was at that time for popular entertainment. Nevertheless, the 'Gazette' also began to include details of radio programmes. The four page 'Gazette' was distributed only in Devonport and Takapuna boroughs, though the list of agents for the newspaper was solely Devonport-based. However, in March 1947 the 'Gazette' hoped to expand into Northcote.
There were reports from the Devonport Orphans' Club and the Druids, along with those from local rugby, cricket, cycling, swimming, hockey, tennis, golf, soccer and yachting clubs. There was also the installation of a swimming pool at Stanley Bay School, a reunion for former Takapuna Grammar pupils and a celebration of 80 years for St Paul's Presbyterian Church in Devonport. Details of Devonport weddings, engagements and obituaries continued, as did the women's and children's columns, and both gardening and cooking hints.
The separately published 'North Shore Times' dates from 30 March 1949, and I have previously written about this title.
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.
Ken and Trish had spent many years building up their business. It was incredibly successful, and they now employed 50 staff with branches in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch. As well as their family home they had a holiday house in Taupō and owned the commercial warehouses in the three centres that their business was based. The relatively significant income the business generated also had allowed them to build up a substantial share portfolio.
Ken and Trish had three children. Their eldest son, Jack, was now general manager in the business and their middle daughter, Claire, worked in the HR department. Their youngest daughter, Penny, had worked in sales for the company but was now a stay-at-home mother with two small children.
Ken was now in his mid-seventies and while he had reduced his hours over time, he was looking at stepping right back so that he and Trish could enjoy more extensive travel overseas and spend more time in the Taupō holiday home. They thought that this was a good time to go and see their lawyer to put in place some succession planning. They knew that both Jack and Claire would be keen to continue to work in the business and take a shareholding, but they also didn’t want to cut Penny out of the opportunities that the business would provide in the future as it really was a great cash generator.
may have an interest in property investment and so having some assets available to be able to leverage off without involving the other two children could be important to that child. The lawyer said that she often saw problems when assets were held together rather than distributed out to children, but that any distributions could be done in a way which would protect any assets for their children and grandchildren.
Ken and Trish were also concerned about the stability of Jack’s marriage. He and his wife had been going through a rocky patch and Ken and Trish were not convinced that the marriage would last. They wanted to make sure that whatever they put in place, Jack’s inheritance from them would be protected.
Ken and Trish had set up a trust many years ago. It owned their home, holiday home, and share portfolio, but the shares in the business and in the company that owned the commercial property were held in their personal names. They were not sure why they had assets outside of the trust but had just followed the advice of their lawyer who they had been with from the very early days of the business. That lawyer was past retirement age himself and he recommended to them that they get specialist asset structuring advice for the next stage of developing their generational wealth transfer plan.
The first thing the specialist lawyer said to them was that it’s important to keep all their children in the loop if they could. She said that she often saw families where the parents didn’t want to share their plans with their children, but most often if there was transparency, it would save arguments in the future. While Ken and Trish had thought they would like to retain all assets in the trust so that all three children could benefit from them, the lawyer suggested they have a good think about the differing positions of their children. One of them may have a large mortgage, and so debt reduction would be more important. One
She said that there would need to be some careful analysis with the business. Ken and Trish would need to decide if the efforts of Jack and Claire had been rewarded in the usual remuneration way or whether they would think that the increased value of the business was because of their efforts and so there should be some recognition of that in the value transferred to them on Ken and Trish’s deaths. Because of the cashflow of the business it may be that all the children retained a shareholding in the business and benefitted from the cashflow, and Jack and Claire get rewarded well for their actual work in the business.
Ken and Trish had a lot to consider, but they ultimately realised the importance of discussing their plans with their children to avoid surprises and maintain family harmony. They also concluded that setting up separate structures for each child, rather than holding everything in the family trust, would better accommodate their children’s diverse needs. That way they could reduce potential conflicts and ensure that assets were managed in a way that would honour everyone’s wishes.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
Body copy here..
The protection of assets that we have worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.
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Thoughtfully navigating modern family dynamics when planning your generational wealth transfer helps prevent future conflicts and ensures everyone’s intentions are respected.
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A specialist can guide you in finding the right structure tailored to your needs. Protecting your family’s wealth for generations to come.
Contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist asset structuring and planning advice.
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New Zealand’s affection for investing in property, either commercial or residential, is not necessarily a straightforward investment decision, with its share of various tax implications to consider. Some of these factors may have a material impact now or in the future which you should consider as part of your due diligence process. This article provides a high-level overview of some of these tax implications.
General tax on investment income
Irrespective of whether you have invested in commercial or a residential property, all investment income earned will be taxable. With a few exceptions, expenses incurred which is directly attributable to earning this investment income can be treated as tax deductible. Such expenses include mortgage interest, insurance, repairs and maintenance, and property management fees. Accurate record keeping will be necessary to keep track of the above and to ensure you are filing the right information with the Inland Revenue Department.
Some tax specific matters in relation to a commercial or residential property investment is summarised below:
Commercial property considerations
Rental income from commercial property is subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST) where income from rental is more than $60,000 in a 12-month period. There will be a requirement to file regular GST returns and pay GST on all income received. Conversely, an input tax credit can be claimed on all GST applicable expenses.
From 1 April 2024, commercial buildings will be depreciated at 0% with no deduction available. This is slightly different to treating it as no longer depreciable as depreciation recovered on the disposal of the property will still apply if sold for more than its book value. Depreciation can still be claimed on any building fit-out which is recorded separately to commercial building in the financial statements.
Generally, the disposal of commercial property will not be subject to tax unless your initial intention when acquiring the property was to dispose of this property at a later date for a gain.
Residential property considerations
There are some differences between short-term and long-term residential investments.
• Short Term Residential Rental
The rise in popularity of the likes of Airbnb has made it easier for some residential property owners to rent out their holiday homes, for example, on a short-term basis. Caution needs to be exercised as short-term residential rentals, identified as stays of four weeks or less, is not considered exempt from GST. The short-term residential rental will be subject to GST if the annual short term residential income is over $60,000, if this property is owned by an entity/sole trader that is already GST registered, or if you voluntarily register for GST. There are also other GST implications to consider, like the possibility of paying GST on the value of the property should you decide to either sell the property or cease offering short-term residential rental. In addition, if you are considering renting out your holiday home
Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace
… any taxable losses arising from residential investments will be ring fenced and cannot be offset against any other income.
to earn a bit more money, there are specific mixed use asset rules to consider when apportioning the applicable expenses.
You will not be able to claim depreciation on the residential building.
• Long Term Residential Rental
Long term residential rentals are exempt from GST and therefore there is no need to file GST returns.
Irrespective of whether the residential property is used for either short term rental or long term rental, any taxable losses arising from residential investments will be ring fenced and cannot be offset against any other income. These tax losses will be carried forward and can only be offset against future taxable residential investment profits, if any.
Similarly, the disposal of any residential property will be subject to the brightline test rules. The brightline test is designed to tax any profits on the disposal of residential property held for a short period of time. Any property sold on or after 1 July 2024 will be subject to a two-year brightline period whilst any disposal prior to this date will be subject to a ten-year period.
Please get in touch with our tax team at Bellingham Wallace if you would like to know more about the tax implications applicable to you before investing in commercial or residential property.
Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz
By Karen Erasmus – Legal Executive.
Karen is an experienced Legal Executive specialising in Deceased Estates and she even owned a funeral home! This enabled her to provide her clients with full circle planning. Karen joined the SCO team in September 2024 and looks after Deceased Estates and various other Elder Law matters.
To avoid a mess, a will is best!
In New Zealand around 1500 people die every year without a will. If this is you, and your estate is worth more than $15,000, this could cause headaches and stress for your loved ones. It can also be expensive, delay distribution and complicate the administration process. Furthermore, when you die without a will, your estate is distributed according to the law and not according to your wishes.
If you had a will, you would have nominated who you wanted to be an executor to carry out your wishes. Without a will someone will need to be appointed and this is determined by the Administration Act. There is an order of priority as to who can be appointed, and in some cases, the other parties will need to consent to the appointment. The order of priority for appointment starts with your surviving spouse or de facto partner (with some exceptions), then your children, followed by your parents, your siblings, your grandparents, or aunts, uncles or their children.
On paper, this might seem simple. In reality, if you had four children, we would need to appoint all of them jointly; this can be complicated if they don’t all live in New Zealand, or if they don’t all get along. As an alternative, only one of your children could seek appointment but only if the other children give their consent to this appointment.
So who can inherit if you don’t have a will? There is also an order of priority as to who can inherit and in what proportion. In some situations, it does not automatically pass to your spouse or de facto partner. Section 77 of the Administration Act 1969 sets this out like a “family tree”.
If you have a spouse or de facto partner but no children or parents, then your spouse or de facto partner will inherit your full estate (including your chattels).
If you have a spouse or de facto partner and living parents, but no children, then your spouse/civil union partner or de facto partner will inherit all your chattels, the first $155,000 of your estate and two thirds of anything that is left. Your living parents will receive the remaining third in equal shares.
If you have a spouse or de facto partner and children then your spouse or de facto partner will inherit all your chattels, the first $155,000 and one third of anything that is left. Your children will receive the remaining two thirds in equal shares.
What about your animals? Animals are included in your chattels. So, whoever is entitled to inherit your chattels, will inherit your fur baby.
A will is one of the most important documents that you will ever sign and is something that you should not put off regardless of your age. At a minimum, if you have Kiwisaver, you should have a will. It doesn’t have to be complex. Let us help you have peace of mind and tidy this up.
Schnauer & Co, 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177
schnauer.com
I’m continuously curious about the impact of AI-powered social media on our young people, trying to keep an open mind about its benefits and pitfalls and being conscious that it is a mainstay in the daily lives of many of our students.
Recently, our executive leadership team members attended the Independent Schools of New Zealand Conference, where the ever-growing prevalence of AI in education and our children's daily lives was discussed at length. While the topic has too many tentacles to examine in a short editorial, the concern of our learners living in echo chambers piqued my interest.
Media has never been unbiased, yet until this generation, it usually came from a limited number of reasonably reliable sources that could be easily identified. In Year 10 English, we teach the language of advertising and persuasion. When I taught this course, I recall students being outraged when they realised that advertisements at different times of the day were targeted at different audiences, such as fast food adverts during after-school hours or when they learned about paid product placement in movies. It was a revelation that they were potentially hoodwinked but felt equipped with their new knowledge to be more discerning.
Today, media is coming at our children thick and fast through TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, but the ‘rules’ of old no longer exist. Anyone, anywhere, anytime, can put content and unvetted ideas out into the world, and the more our children engage with a particular viewpoint or product, the more they are fed similar material leading to confirmation bias. That’s what the AI behind these platforms is trained to do. However, what happens is that our children run the risk of living in echo chambers where they lack a diverse range of thought or counterarguments.
Our job as educators is to help our children see these echo chambers for what they are. The critical thinking skills of fact-checking information and sources, understanding and identifying bias in its many forms, and embracing alternative viewpoints are becoming increasingly essential. At Kristin, these skills are infused into everything we do, and students are explicitly taught to analyse information critically. In addition, our pastoral care programme engages our students in conversations about what they consume online and how this is curated.
I encourage you to initiate discussions at home about the ideas your children are being exposed to online and explore the concept of confirmation bias. Research tells us that lecturing our children doesn’t have the intended impact, but what does work is opening an honest dialogue without judgment. Learning from and with our children allows them to be honest with us, and posing questions for them to consider rather than coming at them with our opinion will likely lead to more robust conversations.
In the wise words of Sydney J. Harris, “The purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows”.
Kate Pollard Middle
School Principal
Amanda Fowler has been announced as the new Chief Executive for Harbour Hospice, taking over the reins from Jan Nichols who is retiring in late November after 13 years at the helm.
Amanda is a former North Shore local, having grown up in and attended the local schools in Glenfield.
She has a long history with hospice, having held her first job across the bridge at Mercy Hospice at age 20, where she was a clinical administrator for the community nursing team. “Working for such a values-based organisation, that's where I got my love of people, and first felt that connection to the mission and the work,” she says.
Amanda went on to become the HR Manager at Hibiscus Hospice and later People and Culture Manager at Harbour Hospice. After completing an Executive MBA, Amanda took on her current role of Head of People and Culture at Generate Kiwisaver Scheme.
The Harbour Hospice Board is delighted to welcome Amanda back to the organisation, Board Chair Ann Tod says. “We are a values-based organisation with a strong focus on providing exceptional specialist care in all the communities we serve. Amanda’s deep understanding of hospice, along with her alignment to the charity’s values and leadership approach shone through in the rigorous recruitment process.”
Amanda, who officially joins the team in mid-November, says she is “honoured” to lead an organisation that is at the heart of our community. “My focus will be on continuing to uphold the excellence in care that Harbour Hospice is known for, while ensuring that we meet the challenges of an evolving sector together.
“I look forward to collaborating with the incredible team, volunteers and the wider community to advance our mission of providing the highest quality palliative care to those who need us most.”
Wilson Home Trust is proud to share with you that over the last three years over $1.2 million dollars has been provided to over 700 families with a financial need who have exhausted all other avenues for funding.
The grants that we provide are used for so many wonderful things, like beach buggies, trikes, horse riding lessons, hydrotherapy, iPhones and laptops to mention just a few. To hear about a child being able to join family activities that were previously not possible through the purchase of a beach buggy is music to our ears!
The new villas are bright, modern and fitted with a state-of-the-art hoist system.
The last year has been extremely busy on our site in Takapuna with the re-build of the villas that are used by Health New Zealand to provide respite care, and rehabilitation.
With a completion date in the first quarter of next year, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel having completed two of the six villas, a new extended playroom and a nurses' station.
The new villas are bright, modern and fitted with a state-of-theart hoist system. The playroom is just that – it is fun, colourful and equipped with everything the children need to make their day special.
We are very fortunate to have a group of garden volunteers every Thursday to help us to keep the grounds beautiful. Many of the volunteers have been with us for many years. If you have green fingers, or just want to get out into the fresh air for a couple of hours on a Thursday give us a call to join the group.
Its lovely to see some sunshine, and to feel the weather warming up, so get out there and enjoy what the beautiful North Shore has to offer. If you passing by, we welcome visitors for a cuppa.
For more information visit our website wilsonhometrust.org.nz or call 09 488 0126
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
We are now confirming our bookings for 2025 and will have a better idea in early December what room hire spaces are available. Email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz for more information about room hire.
We held a wonderful high tea to celebrate ‘older persons’ in our community and had approximately 40 people attend this event.
We have another Blood Drive on Wednesday 20 November 2024. Please book an appointment on the Blood Service app or phone 0800 GIVE BLOOD (0800 448 325).
North Shore Budget Service is running free confidential budgeting and debt management one-on-one sessions on Tuesdays at the Sunnynook Community Centre. Email Mary-Jane on maryjane@nsbs.co.nz or text 021 188 5277 to book an appointment.
We are holding a Christmas Bike Ride around the park in mid-December…
We are holding a Christmas Bike Ride around the park in midDecember, on Sunday 15 December, from 5.00pm to 7.00pm. So put the date in your diary and keep an eye out on the Sunnynook Community Facebook pages. We hope to see you there!
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
The oncoming beautiful weather has brought with it some exciting developments for Yes Disability and I.Lead.
Yes Disability has launched its Disabled Men’s Mental Health Group. We are inviting disabled men 18+ years old – who don’t often get opportunities to connect with other disabled men – to join other disabled men in discussing their mental health. This group was created by disabled men, for disabled men and aims to normalise the discussion of mental health challenges among disabled men. The sessions will occur monthly on Wednesdays at Phab Pacifica in Papatoetoe. Interested? Email Abdulla at abdulla@yesdisability.org.nz.
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 XX times a year, enabling members from across the country to collaborate on nationwide I.Lead projects. Our national I.Lead committee includes Niah, Naomi, Amy and Jaden from Auckland, Eleanor, Sarah, and Kate from Waikato, Megan from Wellington, Jack from Christchurch, Libby and Oak from Dunedin, and Taylah from Blenheim. These members will represent their respective regional committees on a national level.
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.
In October our William Pike Challenge participants went to an accessible rock-climbing facility. For many of the participants, this was their first time participating in a rock-climbing activity, pushing them outside their comfort zones. Between now and February, the I.Lead WPC participants (all with various ability levels) will be encouraged to get inspired by the outdoors; building their resilience, wellbeing, confidence, and skills through outdoor adventures, community service, and passion projects. Disabled youth are often used to feeling left out of exciting opportunities and adventures, making this programme a game-changer. Participants, no matter their abilities or skill level, will have the opportunity to go sailing, rock climbing, nature-walking, and more. The next intake for the second William Pike Challenge participant group will be in February of 2025.
In October we hosted our first-ever Hamilton I.Drive session. 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 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
sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.
By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager
An influx of international cruise ship tourists, outdoor diners and the blossoming ‘Kiwi Christmas’ flowers on the many pohutakawa trees surrounding Windsor Reserve provide colourful indicators of summer’s arrival in Devonport.
Another colourful seasonal addition that’s special to our village are the lamppost banner flags that decorate Devonport’s Victoria Road shopping precinct over the summer period.
Devonport local Adele Gannaway (delskecreative.co.nz) is responsible for the flag illustrations which she was first commissioned by the Devonport Business Association to design in 2017. She has updated the images frequently since, but says the brief has always been to capture the essence of Devonport and what makes it special.
“I think it’s that Devonport is a suburb that’s right in the middle of a huge bustling city, but with a quaint seaside village feel to it, and I wanted to reflect that,” says Adele.
The air vent ‘toadstools’ that line the grass top of Takarunga / Mt Victoria provided an early inspiration.
“Every kid in Devonport has climbed on them, with that beautiful view of Rangitoto in the background. Everyone has memories of doing that!”
Similarly anyone who has enjoyed a feast of fish and chips at any of the local beaches will likely have strong memories of the chip stealing antics of the local seagulls.
Adele’s seagull image with a life ring is drawn from Torpedo Bay wharf and has special meaning for the Devonport-born creative as her granddad spearheaded re-building of the wharf as a councillor at the time.
Cleverly illustrated using simple blocks of colour, other flag designs this summer include a charming tüi, pohutakawa flowers, yachts, and of course beach and park scenes.
It’s a tough ask to capture the vibe of a suburb in a few simple illustrations, with the added challenge of the fabric printed banners needing to work equally well viewed from both sides. Look up next time you’re shopping or dining in Devonport and enjoy the distilled essence of the village's seaside charm.
By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead
Over 100 people attended the special ANCAD
Auckland North Community and Development (ANCAD) celebrated its 50th anniversary, with a very special 50th Anniversary luncheon, held on 17 October in the Takapuna Senior Citizens Hall, with over 100 guests in attendance, from all parts of the community, including Auckland Council and the Takapuna-Devonport, Kaipātiki, Hibiscus and Bays Local Boards representatives in attendance. Many other stakeholders and members of the community and non-profit organisations were also present.
Connie Wright who attended said, “The people, the food, the amazing speakers, the whole community vibe was heartfelt. I so enjoyed the day.” Bronwyn Morgan said, “It’s such an outstanding achievement and thoroughly deserving of a celebration.”
ANCAD acknowledges all those who have been a part of, or who have contributed to, the journey of ANCAD’s involvement in service to the community on the North Shore and the Auckland North region, over the last 50 years. We thank Council and all funders past and present, supporters and staff past and present, for their dedication and inspirational work across five decades. ANCAD looks forward to continuing to be involved in building resilient, safe and connected communities over the next 50 years and beyond.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
For more about what ANCAD is doing and how we can help, visit ancad.org.nz Facebook @ancad.org.nz Instagram ancadinc
LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz 0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz
JIMMY O’BRIEN
General Manager | Director
M 021 979 001
E jimmy.o’brien@colliers.com
JANET MARSHALL
Director | Commercial
M 021 684 775
E janet.marshall@colliers.com
MATT PRENTICE
Director | Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 464 904
E matt.prentice@colliers.com
SHONEET CHAND
Director | Investment Sales
M 021 400 765
E shoneet.chand@colliers.com
RYAN DE ZWART
Associate Director
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 575 001
E ryan.dezwart@colliers.com
JACK TUSON
Associate Director
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 027 448 1148
E jack.tuson@colliers.com
MIKE RYAN
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 402 461
E mike.ryan@colliers.com
NICK RECORDON
Commercial Sales & Leasing
M 027 230 6751
E nick.recordon@colliers.com
There is certainly confidence in the air as we head into the Spring/Summer months and the end of 2024. The Colliers team was pleased to have won the REINZ Award for Excellence for Commercial & Industrial Office of the Year – Small (ten brokers or less). A great testament to our team and provides an opportunity to thank our clients for their valued support.
with the sale of investments at Unit E4, 18 Triton Drive, Rosedale (224 sqm - office) and 121 Diana Drive, Wairau Valley (3,432 sqmindustrial).
We have numerous existing and new listings available for sale and lease. For further information please contact the Colliers North Shore team.
BLAIR SMITH
Commercial Sales & Leasing
M 021 294 0655
E blair.smith@colliers.com
We have completed multiple lease transactions throughout the North Shore including industrial properties at 46A Apollo Drive, Rosedale (1034 sqm) and Unit 6, 14-18 Kawana Street, Northcote (547 sqm), and retail units at 6 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna and 2 Queens Parade, Devonport. Office leases include Unit E1, 18 Triton Drive, Rosedale and 154a Kitchener Road, Milford. Investor and owneroccupier demand has increased
It is great to hear from property owners and businesses that there is positive sentiment, and as always, we look forward to hearing from our new and existing clients.
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!).
Once again you have the dubious pleasure of another offering from the Old Mate from the Pub, as Mr G is otherwise engaged. Travelling we understand – what a life! Gee, the Old Mate from the Pub knows how to grumble – fast becoming the champ!
A big thumbs up to Emirates Team New Zealand for successfully defending the America’s Cup, the White Ferns ICC T20 Women’s World Champions, Auckland FC, Black Caps first test win in India since 1988, and Liam Lawson, a future F1 champion in the making?
I was mightily encouraged a few weeks ago, to read a comment from our local MP, the Hon. Simon Watts, that central government intended to get more involved in major local roading issues such as Lake Road. Now, if this means taking control away from those legions of highly paid, car hating individuals at AT that would be extremely good news.
However, I have doubts that anything will actually happen. Let’s face it, the country is flat broke and the last set of uninspiring plans for Lake Road had an estimated cost of around $50 million, probably closer to $75 million in today’s money, not including the additional millions for the orange cones.
You might recall a few years ago there was actually $30-$40 million in cold hard cash allocated for Lake Road improvements which was purloined by the long gone and unlamented Mayor Leonard Brown to help fund the never-ending CRL $$$$ sink hole.
As a little aside, when the CRL was first mooted, I recall a radio interview by the great Leighton Smith with an American professor, who was a leading authority on this type of metro rail project. He said there were three constants: Construction will take twice as long as planned; the cost will be at least double the initial estimates; patronage will be around 50% of the projected usage. Well, he was absolutely spot on with the first two.
Figures from 2020 showed over 30,000 vehicle movements on Lake Road every day and with the planned and already under construction apartment developments around Belmont there will soon be even larger numbers of vehicles travelling Lake Road every day.
Now as much as our friends AT and the handful of cyclists I see grimly pedaling up past Wilson Home with their ‘One-Less-Car’ backpacks may wish otherwise, cars are going to be around for some years to come and will still need safe and efficient roads. As will cyclists.
Obviously, I’m no roading engineer but here’s a wild suggestion for Lake Road from Belmont lights through to Hauraki Corner. Create a dynamic-lane like Whangaparaoa Road, and the Panmure Bridge. I understand AT have already said it can’t be done, which probably means that it could be but just doesn’t fit their objectives.
It may mean marginally reducing the width of the footpaths on both sides should the road need widening, and while we’re at it, on the eastern side, step the lamp posts back from the kerbside and underground all the electric and telecom cabling.
As well as improving week day traffic, it would be handy in the weekends when inexplicably there’s always massive traffic flows heading towards Devonport. A dynamic lane would also be useful for emergency vehicles. There could be problems with right turning vehicles, and possibly the Belmont shops, but nothing a good traffic engineer couldn’t sort out.
Any improvements on Lake Road are likely to be a compromise because I just can’t see $50 million or more being available any time soon. Surely an interim option as suggested, or something similar, is a better proposition that just hoping for a full redevelopment sometime in the future? Because if that decision is left up to AT it’s unlikely to ever happen.
It pains me to say this, but Devonport village is sadly a shadow of its former self. We know there are many reasons – our parlous economy, Covid lockdowns, AT zealots, online shopping, Lake Road – all of which add up to very tough times for local businesses. What used to be a thriving shopping centre with a good range of shops and services is now mainly cafés/restaurants, hairdressers/ barbers and op shops. Even the magnificent old Esplanade Hotel looks dreadfully tired, run down and long overdue for a major refurbishment. I know a group of local investors have bought several buildings in Victoria Rd and we can only hope they are able to turn Devonport’s fortunes around and inject some much-needed life back into the place.
I don’t want to dwell on the economic mess left by Labour, but a recently opened nine-apartment Kainga Ora development in Meadowbank encapsulates the incompetence and reckless spending we’re all paying for. The build cost per unit was $1.2 million rising to $1.7 million with the cost of land included. Yes, public housing should be safe and comfortable, but that shouldn’t extend to $1 million-plus apartments? A private developer said for what this cost KO, there should have been somewhere between two-three times the number of apartments built. Mercifully the entire KO board has gone, and many senior staff as well, but not the $12 billion in borrowing they accrued over the five years, and yes that is billion with a B.
One year on, and despite the bewildering array of challenges, the coalition government is holding together with no major disagreements, at least not in public anyway. The economy is gradually recovering, inflation is back within the prescribed range, interest rates are coming down, tax cuts are in place, and the punishing ‘greedflation’ we’ve experienced seems to be in abeyance. Perhaps in 2025 we will begin to see some material improvements, but it’s going to be a long haul back to better days.
Bowls North Harbour successfully staged its Metlifecare Masters last month, illustrating the value of the sport as a game for all ages and a beneficial exercise for any competitive sports-person even in their senior years.
A great example of this was a stalwart of the Takapuna club and one of its life members, Murray Mathieson.
The 82-year-old made the finals of the three disciplines for which he was eligible and won the lot: the men’s 75-plus pairs with another Takapuna life member, Chris Taylor, the mixed 75-plus pairs with Geraldine Wight and the men’s 75-plus fours with Taylor, Walter Howden and Leighton Bristol.
That meant being on the green for five consecutive days. But not content with that, Mathieson played the following weekend in his club’s mixed pairs, making the final, and then by competing in Takapuna and Birkenhead midweek tournaments, was in bowling action for nine of 10 consecutive days.
And the standard of competition at the Masters was high. The beaten finalists in the men’s 75-plus pairs were two Birkenhead personalities, Roy Parker and Sandy Cleghorn and the beaten semifinalists were former national champions, Petar Sain and Wally Marcic, from Auckland, and Harbour legends, John Walker and Colin Rogan.
That one of Mathieson’s age should show so much stamina won’t surprise those who know the man well, as he has an outstanding sporting background.
Before taking up bowls in 1978 he had played hockey at the highest level, representing Wellington, and New Zealand at the 1960 Rome Olympics. He was an A grade squash player and has the rare distinction of having won national club titles in two different sports.
He played for Wellington’s Mitchell Park when it won the national squad club title for the Cousins Shield and then in 2007 was in the Takapuna team which won the national club bowls title.
There has been one other national success: the Open triples at Henderson in 2012 and club and centre titles galore. His one disappointment perhaps is that has been stuck for many years on four centre titles, one short of a gold star.
Several other Harbour bowlers won Masters titles. Takapuna’s Wendy Jensen and Robyne Walker won the 60-74 women’s pairs, while Mairangi Bay members enjoyed considerable success.
Jan Gledhill and Colleen Rice won the 75-plus women’s pairs, Judi Farkash and Rosemary Bicol and Takapuna’s Adele Ineson were in a composite four which won the 60-74 women’s title and Phil Chisholm and Bruce McClintock were in a composite four with Riverhead’s Lindsay Gilmore and Helensville’s Bart Robertson which won the men’s 60-74 fours.
And an especially sweet win was that of Browns Bay’s Lin East and Lloyd Sinton, who improved on 2023’s runners-up position by winning the 60-74 mixed pairs final. Lloyd is a disabled bowler, but with his accuracy with his bowling arm is a match for even the best ablebodied players.
There were several teams competing from neighbouring centres, with Northland’s Ann Muir matching Mathieson in making three finals, but winning only one, the 75-plus women’s fours. Fellow Northlanders Garry Fraser and Paul Price won the men’s 60-74 pairs.
Meanwhile, another of the country’s bowling golden oldies, Peter Belliss, will be the guest of honour when on 19 November the Takapuna club holds the “Celebrity Pairs” tournament. Organised by past chairman and now match committee member, Graham Dorreen, the tournament will also feature prominent Harbour bowlers like Colin Rogan, Elaine McClintock, Bart Robertson, Anne Dorreen and Lisa Dickson.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
Benefitz, publishers of Channel Magazine, are thrilled to be working with Auckland’s exciting new football club as their printing and signage partner.
If there was a blueprint for setting up a new professional sports club then Auckland FC looks to be about perfect. The world's biggest game, wealthy and successful owners with proven track records, topped off with an enthusiastic and experienced management team. Tick, tick, tick!
That proved to be the case when Auckland FC kicked off with a 2-0 win against Brisbane in their debut A-League match held at Go Media (Mt Smart) Stadium on Saturday 19 October, with a full stadium of fans.
Benefitz has played a significant part during the establishment phase of the new club. This has included producing a wide range of signage and printing.
“What we have done for Auckland FC really does show the wide capability of our offering,” said Benefitz Senior Account Manager Dan Ellensohn, following the first match in October. “We looked after all the signage and rebranding at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium and a whole lot more.”
In the set-up phase, signage that Benefitz has provided for Auckland FC has included: stadium sponsor signage at Go Media Stadium; billboards at Go Media Stadium; merchandise container
branding and merchandise menus/price lists; team van vehicle branding; ticketing signage; media walls and inflatable tents for events and matchday; DJ booth branding; Auckland FC Supporters Club TIFO banner and coloured cards; flags and signage for Auckland FC city offices and signage at Auckland FC training base (North Harbour Stadium).
There has also been a lot of printed items produced by Benefitz. These have included: business cards, flyers, posters for clubs, 15,000 matchday posters, accreditation and member passes, stickers and postcards. Other branded items produced have included gym bags, pennants and table cloths.
“Being involved with helping to launch this completely new start-up professional club has been lots of fun for our team,” adds Dan Ellensohn, himself a former All White and professional footballer. “Everything is totally new which allows for creativity and a little bit of chaos. As you can see by the full stadium and success of that first match, and the popularity of the merchandise, the Auckland FC crew have done a wonderful job in bringing the new entity to life. I reckon the Benefitz team have played a solid part as well. The print and signage looks great!”
Auckland FC is one of many sporting investments for the club’s lead investor Bill Foley who was in Auckland for the debut match. He is the lead investor, chairman and CEO of Black Knight Sports
and Entertainment, a consortium that owns the ice hockey club Vegas Golden Knights. He is managing general partner of Black Knight Football and Entertainment, which owns English Premier League club AFC Bournemouth, and has a stake in French Ligue One club FC Lorient. Earlier this year the Black Knight organisation also became a significant minority shareholder in Scottish football club Hibernian FC. Bill Foley has has other investments in New Zealand, including Foley Wines (five wineries in Martinborough, Marlborough and Central Otago), a restaurant group with venues in Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown (including the iconic Soul Bar in Auckland), and luxury lodge Wharekauhau on the South Wairarapa Coast. Husband and wife duo of Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams are also key investors in the club.
Auckland FC is known at the ‘Black Knights’, and their aim is for the whole of the Auckland region to embrace them as their new home team. They have made a great start.
“Being part of the community is very important to us and is something that Bill (Foley) does wherever he invests,” explained Auckland FC CEO Nick Becker, at the launch earlier in the year. “Ambition is hugely important as well; we will fight on and off the pitch. The Foley way is to always advance and never retreat. We will also be focused on creating pathways for our talent, with the added opportunity for players to play for other Foley owned Black Knight teams in the UK (AFC Bournemouth), France (FC Lorient) and Scotland (Hibernian FC) being a bonus. We believe the final value of being here for all of Auckland is very important, ensuring we are weaving together the many cultures that will help us grow and be successful.”
An Auckland FC women’s team will be introduced for the 2025/26 season.
For more information visit aucklandfc.co.nz
For many years we have had requests from customers seeking a more sustainable option to rigid boards made from non-recyclable materials. In response to these requests we have been continually working with key suppliers to source and develop alternatives.
We are thrilled to announce the introduction of Refab, a brand new rigid printable board that is made entirely from textile waste. The neat thing is it’s made right here in New Zealand.
Benefitz director Dallas Bennett has played a significant role in fostering the development of this new board. He came across a local textile company experimenting with trying to produce rigid boards, but struggling with the expertise and industry knowledge to complete the end product.
“With the original prototype product I could see the potential,” explains Dallas. “I could also see they needed some industry expertise. So we introduced them to one of our very proactive suppliers and together they came up with the an excellent product. We’ve provided advice along the way.
“It’s a thrill to now have a very printable board, that we call Refab. Refab can be used for short-term outdoor use and will just about last forever when used inside. It really is an alternative for flute and other composite boards.”
Dallas says the sustainable advantages of the Refab board are huge. It offers a true circular recycling process. The biggest being that it is manufactured right here in Auckland.
“It comes to us out of the factory in Auckland, we can print on the board, then it can be used by our customers and come back to us. We then send it back to the factory to be mulched up and made into more Refab boards.”
• 1.44kg of recycled textile waste makes up 1 x REFAB 3mm Board
• 2.88kg of recycled textile waste makes up 1 x REFAB 5mm Board
• REFAB boards are 1220mm x 2440mm and can be used both indoor and outdoor [up to 3 months].
Refab is made from textile waste such as old workwear and high vis jackets diverted from landfill.
“We believe Refab board has massive potential for short term event signage, real estate signage and for display, exhibitions and events,” adds Dallas Bennett. “It prints very well and is available in both 3mm and 5mm thickness, with the option to manufacture different thicknesses in the future.”
1. Product collected/dropped to Manufacturer
2. Run through automatic cutting and shredding process
3. Pressed into bales
4. Fibres are bound together then stitched
5. Cut to size and stacked on pallet
6. Stripped of any metal or hard plastic
7. Teased from cut/shredded material back into fibre
8. Bales blended together to ensure consistent blend
9. Bonded in an oven
Interested in advertising in our Services on the Shore section? Contact:
Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz, 021 419 468
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz, 021 204 3395
channelmag.co.nz Facebook Instagram
AUTOMOTIVE
MICHIES AUTOMOTIVE 20 COMO STREET, TAKAPUNA
OPEN FOR SERVICING, REPAIRS AND VTNZ WOF.
LOCAL PICK UP AND DROP OFF AVAILABLE. GIVE US A CALL.
Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm, Sat 8:00am-1:00pm, Sun Closed P 09 486 2029 E michies@supershoppes.co.nz W www.autosupershoppes.co.nz/shoppes/michies
Companion driving service on Auckland’s Nor th Shore.
• Medical Appointments
• Hairdresser / Shopping
• Airpor t / rail / bus transfers
Milford: 09 551 3050
Nor th Bays: 09 473 8186 Albany: 09 476 0011
• Pets to the vet
• ACC contracted supplier
• Pre-bookings essential
Join in the fun at Takapuna Boating Club, right on Takapuna beach!
Sunday Club Days.
Courses - learn to paddle, sail, or drive a rigid inflatable boat (for on-the-water volunteers).
Fun Racing - from beginners to advanced.
Social - Paddle & Pinot evenings, and destination sails.
Free use of club boats, boards, surfskis & equipment.
Use of storage facilities available.
Many affordable membership options.
Receive 20% off at our member’s bar.
39 The Str and, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz
8 Short let out songbird (8)
9 A tree's about right for trainspotter (6)
10 Mix porridge? (4)
11 Confused, stole into regular spot for steamer (6,4)
12 Rabbit storage bin? (6)
14 Right month to change ends for a relation of the 24-2-24 (8)
15 I am nuts about getting a big wave (7)
17 Case in place with facial hair (7)
20 Hit person, in the sense of boxing lip (8)
22 Characters from "Neighbours" inevitably like Paddington, say (6)
23 Near warm kiss after vacation - that's 12's work (10)
24 Beat with a joint? (4)
25 Songbird's cry of encouragement embodies a Duran Duran hit (6)
26 Crafty duck loses heart at first, belonging to thee (8)
Solution to last month's crossword
1 Hasn't two shapeless things (8)
2 Wretched grope for "The Listener" (4)
3 Puts up resistance, concealing old head's bewilderment (6)
4 Hanging writer and Italian poet? Not quite (7)
5 It isn't seen in 23 and may be described as broad, or living in the plural (8)
6 Bird carriages could be practical jokes (5,5)
7 Head or neck covering with centre removed for part of a hand (6)
13 http://neon.la represented athletic contest (10)
16 Wrongdoing, as James Bond would be the first to admit (8)
18 Affair involving bride-to-be, man with no name - 8 gets tip off (3,5)
19 Straighten out by removing Oliver? (7)
21 UK PM has a change of heart, entering far right organisation - they go downhill fast (6)
22 Overcoat shown up in secret slumber party (6)
24 Shakespeare could be described as free? (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.
