Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill,
Quarter 3 has proven a busy period for us having completed a number of key transactions across the North-West market. Overall, we have sold over $87 million of property during this period and leased over 16,000 sqm of floor space.
Highlights have been the sale of PlaceMakers Westgate and multiple industrial sales across the North-West market between $3m - $9m reflecting market yields sub 5.5%. We have also transacted the Animates investment on Clark Street in New Lynn and have many assets across Auckland under contract, off market.
Buyer confidence is certainly back with most campaigns finishing with multiple cash offers on or prior to the deadline date. More certainty around interest rate cuts have provided purchasers with confidence and we expect this to continue moving forward. Mortgage and term deposit rates have also been falling, which is resulting in well leased, commercial investments to be more attractive.
We are expecting a busy end to 2024, driven by increasing amounts of buyer enquiry. If you have any questions, or would like to discuss your requirements, please do not hesitate to give either Shoneet or Matt a call on their details below.
The 'Long Bay Effect' - the best backyard in Auckland
Some mornings, the only sound you can hear is the waves gently touching the beach as you paddleboard the length of Long Bay. If this sounds like you, then come live in Long Bay. Living next to a beach, marine reserve, and regional park is magical; we call it the 'Long Bay Effect'. Long Bay is coastal living at its best - it’s where life really is a beach.
With 1,140 hectares of a regional park and marine reserve, fantastic coastal walks, the vibrant Long Bay village, excellent schools and monthly farmers' markets, all centred around, arguably, Auckland’s best beach, there are a lot of reasons why Long Bay is one of the most sought-after places to live in the city.
Long Bay village is the North Shore's exemplary new retail and dining destination. A central hub for Long Bay residents to grab a coffee, have dinner, shop for all their essentials, or attend one of the ever-popular markets - it’s all on your doorstep. We invite you to become part of an exciting future.
Located an easy 30-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD, you’re never far away from city life. Albany is just a 10-minute drive from Long Bay and offers a huge range of retail options, including a Westfield shopping centre with approximately 140 stores. Albany is also home to a number of employment options, including corporate offices, professional services, the education sector and real estate. And when you’ve had your fill of the offerings of Albany or the city, you can head back home to detox in your beautiful Long Bay haven.
From sections offering the home you’ve always dreamt about through to apartments, townhouses, and everything in between, Templeton Group offers something to suit everyone.
Our beautifully made Elementum apartments are selling fast, so you’d better hurry. Available in a multitude of designs, they feature open-plan living that flows out to a secluded balcony overlooking a green landscaped oasis. New apartments from $694,000 and terraces from $1.56million.
Nestled in Long Bay village, the innovative Kahu development spans two buildings, maximising the elevated land contour to capture north-facing sundrenched vistas over the village. Two-bedroom homes from $950,000 and four-bedroom homes from $1.59million.
Light Box is a collection of expertly designed, family-ready threeand four-bedroom townhouses. At the heart of each home is the 'hero' aspect - a light-filled atrium which brings nature into the interior. Pull back the doors and bring the outside in as you enjoy a meal around the table with loved ones. Three-bedroom townhouses from $1.395million, and four-bedroom townhouses from $1.695million.
At Green View, Templeton Group has sections ranging from 400m2 to 1,200m2 for sale right now, ready for that dream home you’ve always dreamt about with a backyard beyond your wildest dreams. Be quick, as they’re selling fast. Sections from $890,000. At Long Bay, life really is a beach. longbay.co.nz
ANDREW DORREEN
Sublime waterfront estate on Narrow Neck Beach 2 OLD LAKE ROAD, NARROW NECK
Perfect for those seeking an exclusive coastal lifestyle, this remarkable estate rests directly on the shores of Narrow Neck Beach, offering breathtaking views and direct beach access. Spanning an impressive 984m², the property is nestled on an elevated yet intimate position, with lush pohutukawa trees providing privacy - plus your own private boat shed carved into the sea wall.
Every detail of this four-bedroom home has been thoughtfully reimagined by its current owners to create a coastal sanctuary. With three luxuriously ensuited bedrooms on the third floor, two open out onto generous decks with views through the treetops to the serene water below. Each ensuite bathroom is elegantly finished, ensuring comfort and style. A private office space above the master bedroom offers an ideal work-from-home setup with peaceful ocean views.
From the landscaped garden, a path leads directly to the beach and the water, creating a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor coastal living. With
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
the option to use the lower level as a rumpus or guest suite, this space opens onto its own deck with stunning views.
The local area enriches the lifestyle on offer, with iconic amenities such as the Waitemata Golf Club, Wakatere Boating Club, and Narrow Neck Beach Café within walking distance. Top-rated schools, from Belmont Primary to Takapuna Grammar, are close by, and a bus stop just outside provides easy commuter access to Auckland City and ferry terminals.
Here, your days unfold against a canvas of natural beauty, complete with the amenities to enjoy it all in the utmost comfort. Featuring a stunning double-sided gas fireplace, Sonos surround sound, internal access garaging plus off-street parking behind a secure gate and a functional laundry this is family living at its best.
Discover the pinnacle of waterfront living on Narrow Neck Beach. This unique property awaits those who desire the finest in coastal luxury and convenience. FOR SALE BY NEGOTIATION
Not Just A Home – It’s a Lifestyle 17 LANSDOWNE STREET, BAYSWATER
Positioned on a coveted, sheltered waterfront site, 17 Lansdowne Street is a masterpiece of design and functionality offering the new owners a fantastic waterfront lifestyle. This cedar-clad residence was meticulously crafted from new and maximises natural light, unmatched panoramic views, and effortless waterfront living.
Step into a world of coastal elegance where the ground floor boasts expansive open-plan living spaces flowing to generous outdoor entertaining. The light-filled kitchen, dining, and main lounge flow seamlessly to sheltered decking and a sophisticated loggia, perfect for yearround entertaining. A second lounge complete with a kitchenette provides a versatile semi-self-contained space, complemented by an ensuited bedroom, ideal for extended family, teenagers, or guests.
High tide brings the gently lapping water to the sea wall, creating a serene, ever-changing backdrop. The home faces North meaning all-day sun and in complete privacy - Superb. At low tide, the mangroves invite exploration
for the children, offering both relaxation and adventure. The four-car garage ensures ample space for vehicles, water sports gear, and all the essentials of an active beachside lifestyle. The boat ramp outside ensures that even the sea legs can launch straight off the house.
The upper floor is dedicated to family comfort, with three double bedrooms that frame the bay views beautifully and take in the wider urban lights in the evening. Two of the bedrooms feature walk-in wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms, while the third enjoys easy access to the downstairs amenities. Thoughtfully designed, the layout ensures privacy, comfort, and uninterrupted water vistas. In addition to the accommodation, there is an open plan office downstairs which ensures ease of working from home, or a great homework station.
Nestled in the sheltered and tranquil Shoal Bay, this home delivers the perfect balance of luxury and family living.
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.
The year that was 2024, and beyond...
As I write this, it is late November, and I am thinking where has the year gone? Christmas and New Year are just around the corner, bringing a close to the year that was 2024. 2024 has been a very satisfying year for the team at Channel Mag. Yes, it’s been a toughie, but we can be hugely proud that we have turned out 11 very good 100 pages-plus issues during the year, each and every one celebrating the wonderful lifestyle we enjoy north of the Harbour Bridge. At a time when magazines and media are challenged, we continue to go against the tide.
We have a very tight team putting this magazine together every month - just four of us. It works, as for each of us, it is just one of the many things we do as part of the wider Benefitz team. I say a big thanks to Kim and Liz, who assist me with the content and help to sell advertising to make things work financially. We also have Crystal, our magnificent designer, whose ongoing efficiency makes things very easy for all. Thanks, team, for your efforts in 2024. In this issue, we once again have something for just about everyone, and it’s all totally free. There’s a focus on what’s happening on the Shore this summer. Christine Young has done
Publisher/Advertising
a good piece on events in the coming months, and we also have a Q&A with some of our club managers and event organisers.
I enjoyed catching up with Ian Darby for our cover feature about his adventures driving the innovative Emirates Team New Zealand chase boat in Barcelona. Ian’s was a tough job that somebody had to do! LOL.
I want to acknowledge the work of Tim Bray, QSM. The Tim Bray Theatre Company has been putting on fantastic shows, bringing joy to people of all ages for 33 years. In this issue, Tim Bray Theatre Company is announcing that the company will close. The difficult decision comes due to the ill health of Tim Bray, Founder and Artistic Director. Tim has recently started a course of chemotherapy to help control incurable cancer. We wish Tim all the best and thank him for all he has given over more than three decades.
We have plenty of gift ideas and suggestions for things to do on the North Shore for you in this issue. Our goal is always to get our local people to spend locally for the benefit of the community. So, when buying gifts this festive season, we encourage you to do so on the North Shore. If you are celebrating or eating out, then make sure you do it locally to support our hospo businesses, who’ve had a tough few years. We reckon they deserve some extra love during summer 2024/2025.
We ran out of magazines early with the November issue, so we have increased our print run with an extra 500 copies with this issue. We now print 22,000 magazines monthly, and they all go through the month. We are only left with sample copies. It’s a popular mag!
Enjoy this festive issue. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Our next issue will be out in early February. See you in 2025!
Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz
CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.
Aidan Bennett, Crystal Sharp, Liz Cannon, Kim McIntosh, Klaudia Wal
Score More in 2024
• 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
Homes of Devonport raise the roof!
The sixth Homes of Devonport biennial event was held on Friday 1 November, when a beautifully sunny day showcased the very best of the 12 homes and gardens open to view. Organised by Devonport Rotary, with Bayleys once again the major sponsor, the event was a resounding success with over 800 guests attending the tour. The event raised over $100,000 for Dementia Auckland, Cure Kids and the Devonport Rotary Charitable Trust, which exceeded all expectations! Huge thanks and congratulations to all involved.
Victoria Self, Colin Cannon, Sue Stanaway and Helen Michell
Sally Pilkington, Jennifer Major and Susan Walker Tania Somerville, Penny Milne and Henry Stanaway
Nicole Dobbie, Karen, Rebecca and Tash Rawlinson
Jackie and Craig Brewer
Kym Chandler, Adrienne Flathaug, Christine McInnes and Teresa Kearney
Ellie Brown, Nicki Lucas, Angela Cannon and David Hawkey
Candice Vernon, Michelle Becker and Hanna Christian
Natalia Fernandes, Angela Berry and Jenny King
Harcourts Cooper and Co raises big bucks for Breast Cancer Cure
Harcourts Cooper and Co welcomed over 100 beautifully dressed and coiffed guests who arrived at The Officer's Mess, Fort Takapuna, Narrow Neck, on Tuesday 5 November to attend the highly anticipated Harcourts Cooper and Co Melbourne Cup Lunch. The annual event was held to support the charity Breast Cancer Cure and this year, an amazing $72,000 was raised on the day. Tristram European, who brought along several of their key luxury cars, was the key sponsor and ran a golf putting competition with fabulous prizes. Along for the ride was Martin Cooper's 60s Cadillac, which was also proudly on display. The live auction, the main fundraising event, was extremely lively and vied for the top excitement of the day, along with the actual nail-biting Melbourne Cup streaming live at the event.
Darren Bird, Dave Punturiero, Mark Hayward, Rodney Gillard, Alona Winstanley, Nikki Revell, Tim Glatt
Tim Becker, Justin Clarke, Marissa Muirhead, Martin Cooper, Joshua Hunt, Karlene Beattie, Will Becker, Tama Willis, Matt Hunt, Andrew Hiskens, Keith Muirhead, Pete Watters
Ben and Alan Wiltshire, Andrew Bruce, Tim Turner
Alex Fraser, Echo Cai, Aria and Davina Henderson
Cathy Chen, Anurag Rathi, Jethro Early, Rishi Ankus Gary Potter and Glenice Taylor
Tim Glatt, Hannah Barnett, Kelly Duncan
Emma Perry, Deb Caldwell, Sonja de Mari, Martin Cooper, Mark Hayward
Graham Lewis and Sue Noonan
Storm McVay, Anthony Paris, Jackie Parker
FROM $3,000 TO $30,000 THE ARTS | INNOVATION (SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY) | MUSIC EDUCATION | SPORT | SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY
The North Harbour Club annually awards grants to young people, aged 13 - 25 years, in the North Harbour region who display Excellence in their chosen career or field. Over $200,000 total grant funding pool is up for grabs, so get your application underway today – applications close Friday 24 January 2025.
Cousin Scott's - Takapuna's new honky-tonk hang-out
Channel Magazine and Benefitz teams were excited to be invited to the launch party of the new Cousin Scott's Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar in the heart of Takapuna, held on Wednesday 30 October. Guests were treated to delicious complimentary drinks and canapés served throughout the evening, showcasing their mouthwatering American eats with a Southern twist. There's something for everyone at Cousin Scott's - the atmosphere is great for friends and family alike, with pool tables, arcade games and no less than 20 TVs playing live sports, helping you feel like you're in the front row at every game!
Having problems with your spa pool operation, even Automatic cover problems?
Shayne is an experienced technician for repairs Contact Shayne Olliver on 021 0237 3214 or covers 4 pools 027 663 8605
Logan McIntosh, Blake Douglas, Jonno Tornado, Scott Ruddock, Janet Marshall, Adian Bennett, Paul Marshall
Damon Kinley, Mark and Linda Wilson, Sam Bremer
Linda Kennedy, Peppen Zhuang, Hayley Huang, Effie Xia, Linda Lewis, Maddy Renwick
Ben and Beck Whitley, Jamie Davies, Lisa Sutherland, Louise Dwen, Bev McAlpine
'The End of the Golden Weather' returns to Takapuna Beach again this Christmas for the 19th time.
Over the past 18 years, thousands of people of all ages have shared their cherries and cakes, enjoyed something from a thermos, or just greeted neighbours they haven’t seen since last Christmas. As many say, "We’re just here because that’s what you do on Christmas morning in Takapuna."
The End of the Golden Weather (EGW19) features the well-known and loved Stephen Papps, who appeared in Ian Mune’s original movie of Bruce Mason’s play, and continues a Takapuna tradition set right where it was written, evoking the sights, sounds and smells of a family Kiwi Christmas in the 1930s. It is part three of Bruce Mason’s iconic New Zealand play and hilariously captures the injustices of childhood seen through the eyes of a child who upstages a carefully planned family pageant on Christmas Day. Its spirit is as true today as when it was written and just as relevant. What better way to start Christmas Day?
Six young local musicians vying for top prizes
Six talented young musicians from the North Shore are among 30 of New Zealand’s very best classical string and piano talents vying for top prizes in the 2024 National String and National Piano Competitions this December.
EGW19 features the well-known and loved Stephen Papps, who appeared in Ian Mune’s original movie of Bruce Mason’s play…
Attendance is completely free with optional koha. It is suitable for and attracts anyone of any age who is a New Zealander, and many who are not. This event is supported by the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, the Takapuna Beach Business Association, Takapuna Library, NZ Theatre Month Trust and Repro Graphics.
'The End of the Golden Weather', by Bruce Mason Takapuna Beach Reserve 10am, Wednesday 25 December 2024
(Performance lasts about half an hour)
Alternate wet weather venue – PumpHouse Theatre
Hailing from Westlake Boys High School are current student Shan Liu (14) and former student Henry Meng (20); Jesse Oh (20) and Dylan Tang (19) both attended Rangitoto College; Madeleine Xiao (19) went to Carmel College for her intermediate and high school years; and Hyun Jae Lee (17) currently attends Pinehurst School.
Madeleine, Henry and Shan also received AIMES Awards from the North Harbour Club.
This year’s National String Competition once again teams up with the equally iconic Lewis Eady National Piano Competition for a weekend of top-level performances (Sat 14 – Mon 16 December). This is a rare chance to see the very best of this country’s young classical artists on the cusp of their musical careers.
All 30 semi-finalists will compete in two semi-final rounds on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December at the University of Auckland School of Music.
Six finalists will be announced on Sunday evening, who will then go on to compete in the Grand Final on Monday 16 December at the Westlake Girls High School Event Centre with a prize pool of $20,000, plus the opportunity to perform with the Auckland Philharmonia.
The Competition is one of New Zealand’s most prestigious events for emerging artists and is jointly presented by the Hill Family Foundation for Arts and Music and the Chiron Lewis Eady Foundation.
Semi-Final Rounds I and II: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15
December – Door Sales only. Adults $15/Students $10/ 10 years and under are free.
Grand Final: Monday 16th December - available online: https://events.humanitix.com/grand-final-national-stringpiano-comp-24 or on the door.
Adults $50/Gold Card $35/Students $25
Stephen Papps
Henry Meng Hyun Jae Lee Dylan Tang
Jesse Oh Madeleine Xiao Shan Liu
Tim Bray Theatre Company announces closure after final Christmas show
With deep regret, Tim Bray Theatre Company announces that the company will close after 33 years. This difficult decision comes as a result of the ill health of Founder and Artistic Director, Tim Bray QSM, who has been diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell sarcoma. While the condition isn’t curable, Tim has recently started a course of chemotherapy to help control the cancer, and will require ongoing treatment.
Marking its 20th anniversary, The Santa Claus Show '24 will be the company’s final theatre production, serving as a heartfelt farewell to its loyal supporters and the broader arts community. This beloved family favourite rings in the holiday season from 1-22 December at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna.
Ho ho ho – off we go! Join our hero Kelly on an epic adventure, dashing through the snow and laughing all the way to the North Pole. Along the way, you’ll find yourself singing, giggling, and embarking on a magical journey as Kelly learns the true sentiment of Christmas.
Originally written by Bray in 1991, this production has become New Zealand’s best-selling Christmas show and is a treasured holiday tradition for many whānau. For more than 30 years, Auckland audiences have shared in the delight of this enchanting tale, all about finding the true meaning of Christmas. The Santa Claus Show ‘24 is just one of over 100 productions the company has presented since its inception, leaving behind an incredible legacy of creativity, passion and dedication to bringing joy to Tāmaki Makaurau’s children.
Linda McFetridge will be stepping into the role of director for this production. “I am excited to be directing this year’s 'The Santa Claus Show ‘24', helping Elfie, Prancer, Santa, and the whole Tim Bray Theatre team bring this magical show to the stage once again,” says Linda.
Bringing this festive production to life is a lively and talented cast, led by Christian George, who is back for the third year running, as the beloved Santa Claus Stunt Double. Joining him on this magical sleigh ride are familiar faces like the delightful Rebecca Ansell, Dylan Underwood, Grant Zent and Matilda Chua, alongside newcomers Phoebe McKellar and Paul Paice. This jolly group is ready to spread
holiday cheer far and wide. Plus, Santa and his festive friends will also be joined by six talented students (aged 7-15) from the Tim Bray Theatre Company’s Youth Theatre programme, adding even more sparkle to the season.
Tim Bray Theatre Company has inspired and delighted hundreds of thousands of children across Aotearoa since it started in 1991. Join in celebrating their incredible work with the final season of The Santa Claus Show ‘24 this festive season.
More information about the company’s closure and tickets for The Santa Claus Show ‘24 are available at timbray.org.nz
Performances will be held at The PumpHouse Theatre, Killarney Park, 2a Manurere Avenue, Takapuna, from 1-22 December, with shows at 10.30am and 1pm daily (no shows on Mondays).
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
Sleigh this summer with Santa, spontaneity and Shakespeare!
Summer at The PumpHouse Theatre is a little bit like Kirihimete morning - packed with surprises, a dash of nostalgia, and more than a few moments of magic. This year, our festive line-up promises to light up your holiday season, offering something for every kind of theatre lover.
First, we’re sleighing it with The Santa Claus Show ‘24 by Tim Bray, presented by the incredible Tim Bray Theatre Company. This Kiwi Christmas classic has been sprinkling festive joy for 20 years, and this season is no exception. Follow Kelly’s snowy escapade to the North Pole, where lessons of generosity, laughter, and a big dose of holiday cheer await. Perfect for little ones, or anyone who’s still a kid at heart!
For those craving comedy, our improv specials have you covered. On 6 December, Late Night Knife Fight unleashes three teams of razor-sharp wits in a battle for audience glory. The next night, Casual First Date serves up hilarity in an improvised sketch comedy show where the strange and mundane get gleefully close!
Feeling carolling vibes? Join us outdoors on 15 December for our PumpHouse Christmas Carols in the Amphitheatre. There’s nothing like a good sing-along under the summer sun to make your spirit bright!
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
DEPOT Te Whare Toi, Devonport
As we gear up for our December exhibitions and events it’s incredible to look back at the year that’s been.
It has been a year of upheaval, change and challenges, with some amazing wins along the way. We feel we’re out the other side stronger than ever and ready for a solid 2025! Alongside our annual exhibition and Sound programme, we launched various new events and initiatives, including Devonport’s First Thursdays series, which is growing every month. We got flooded and were closed for nearly three months. We set up a new gallery and shop at the historic Borough Council buildings on Victoria Rd, where we also established seven artist studios supporting 15 local artists. It has been epic and we need a lie-down, but it has also been exhilarating and fun. And none of it could have been possible without our extraordinary creative team and our amazing local partners, artists, creatives, funders and supporters. So, a massive thank you! Enjoy the Christmas break, and we look forward to seeing you in 2025! But first, we have our last offerings of the year coming up, so please enjoy and come and say Kia ora.
DEPOT Artspace - RE: OBJECT
As the holidays fade into long, balmy evenings, Shoreside Theatre’s Auckland Shakespeare in the Park takes centre stage. From 18 January, the Amphitheatre transforms into a magical world of Shakespearean drama. This season, The Taming of the Shrew gets an all-female cast makeover - expect fierce banter and bold laughs. Meanwhile, Richard III immerses itself in the gritty world of post-war London gang culture, reimagining the Bard’s tale of ambition and betrayal with a bit of a Peaky Blinders vibe.
Whether you’re jingling your bells or brushing up on your Bard, The PumpHouse is your summer destination for entertainment. Come for the stories, stay for the magic.
Meri Kirihimete, and a very happy 2025 to you all!
James Bell
BOOKINGS: 09 489 8360 or pumphouse.co.nz
RE: OBJECT is an exciting exhibition that marks the halfway point in the inaugural two-year OBJECT MAKER Aotearoa Fellowship designed to nurture and empower 10 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.
DEPOT - 3 Victoria Rd, Gallery and Shop
Supporting local artists, our Vic Rd Gallery and Shop sells unique handmade art and objects from local makers and those from around Aotearoa. So, if you are looking for some special gifts this summer, please drop in and say hello and let us introduce you to the work of our local creative community. The gallery and shop will be open throughout the silly season, so be sure to drop by if you want a destination visit and some lovely treats.
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!
Harbour Hospice patient Ngaire Duncan turns 100
Everybody loves a birthday celebration at Harbour Hospice, so when patient Ngaire Duncan recently turned 100 its kitchen staff made her a beautiful big chocolate birthday cake. Ngaire, from Birkenhead, attends hospice’s Day Group programme, a patient support group that meets fortnightly at hospice’s Shea Tce, Takapuna, facility to connect and learn about topics that can help make life easier.
Ngaire says she couldn’t have received a nicer surprise when the cake was brought out and the group sang happy birthday. “Everybody is interested in everybody else in the nicest possible way at Day Group. They’re all just so great and I’m so happy to be a part of it,” she says.
Ngaire was born on 23 July 1924 and claims she’s not surprised she’s made it to 100. “When I was 18 I had my palm read and I was told I would live to 100 or more,” she says. The palm reader also told her she’d marry three times, at the ages of 20, 27 and 39, and those predictions came true too.
Having the ability to see the funny side of life is what has kept her going, she claims. “You’ve got to have a sense of humour and not take yourself too seriously. And if you can’t sleep because you’re running over all your worries, have a piece of chocolate. That sometimes works.”
She’s had some good luck along the way, too, like winning the golden lottery when she was in her forties. “From that moment on I made a promise to myself that I would always own a freehold home,” she says. Over the years she has bought and sold nine properties and made a profit on each one. She has created and run three successful businesses: a mobile hairdressing service, a lingerie shop in Milford and a motel in Peka Peka, north of Waikanae, that she built from scratch.
All her life Ngaire, who has two daughters, has been told that she looks much younger than she is. “When I was 40 I was introduced to a man who was 24 and after we went out a few times he told me he wanted to marry me. When I told him I was 38 he literally fell off his bar stool.” Even today, people are shocked when she tells them she’s 100, she says.
A self-confessed extrovert, Ngaire gets her energy from being around people and that’s why she enjoys attending Open Doors so much. She also receives regular visits from a hospice community visitor Gladys, and the pair get on so well Ngaire invited Gladys to her 100th birthday party. “We just have so much fun and so many laughs. That’s what life is all about.”
To learn more about Day Group and other ways Harbour Hospice can support patients and their carers and whānau: harbourhospice.org.nz/programmes-for-patients-and-family/
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Ship better with Pack & Send
Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna have a "no limits" approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems. Now you have a better alternative to NZ Post to get your Christmas sending sorted – Stress Free. “It’s a busy and stressful time of the year for many so we make it quick and easy to send your special items” says Jeremy.
Pack & Send Takapuna have a wide range of courier services for the seasonal period. Pack & Send is a better alternative to the Post Shop with competitive courier rates. Enjoy the convenience of getting a park right outside, no queuing with others paying bills. Deal with experts that specialise in packing and freight solutions.
Whether you have one small gift or a mountain of goodies for Santa’s sleigh, Pack & Send has a service that will fit your needs. From low-cost traceable courier to precision, and sensitive freight services. Around New Zealand or the world they have a service for your needs.
Unfortunately, the elves in the shopping malls do not wrap your gifts to stand up to the rigours of freight. Pack & Send can safely pack your gifts into one of their super-strong cartons with bubble wrap for maximum protection while they are travelling to their final destination. “We also sell packing materials if you choose to pack it yourself to take full advantage of our Christmas pricing” says Jane.
Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one-stop shop" for all your packaging, courier and freight solutions. Pack & Send also has an online self-service solution for pre-packed items weighing less than 30kg with a value under $1000 that doesn't need the full personalised service you would receive in-store. This can be used for sending international packages as well as ones around New Zealand. This is a DIY courier service option, where you manage the process in your own home or office – rather than have it done for you. It’s as simple as 1-2-3. Visit the website packsend.co.nz and start with a quote.
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.
Email: takapuna@packsend.co.nz www.packsend.co.nz
(09) 486 3355
Ngaire Duncan
EXPLORE OUR COASTAL VILLAGES
Whatever age, whatever stage, life is for exploring. At Ryman our villages offer the freedom to choose your ideal retirement lifestyle. Ryman villages offer independent living in townhouses and apartments, assisted living in serviced apartments, and a range of care options, all set among beautiful gardens within easy reach of the coast.
Our villages feature amenities such as a heated indoor swimming pool, an all-weather bowling green, hair and beauty salons, a cinema, a village café, and more.
Discover a retirement filled with opportunity.
By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote
“Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing but of reflection”
– Winston Churchill
We are coming to the end of what has been a tough and difficult year for many. We know times are challenging which is why we have been working at pace to get our economy and country back on track.
One year on from taking office, there are small signs of light at the end of the tunnel.
On restoring law and order, we have seen a 3% decline in overall victimisations reported to police and a 60% decline in reported ram raids.
There has been a 22% reduction in serious assaults and an 11% reduction in aggravated robberies compared to a year ago. Our government’s back-to-basics policing approach has resulted in a 30% increase in police foot patrols across the country.
On cost of living, annual inflation is down to 2.2%, the lowest in 3.5 years, thanks to us reining in wasteful government spending and a return to the Reserve Bank’s single focus on fighting inflation.
In our community, there are many great local organisations supporting families with groceries, gifts or cash donations online. Please give generously if you can, to support those in need this Christmas.
On health, we are investing a record $30 billion into health to deliver faster cancer treatment, higher immunisation rates and shorter emergency waits. We are delivering on a campaign promise by funding 54 new medicines including 26 cancer treatments over four years benefiting 175,000 New Zealanders annually.
On housing, we have seen the number of people in emergency housing cut by 62% from 3,141 households to 1,179 households over the past year. Stable, long-term housing contributes significantly to improved social, economic and health outcomes.
We know that there is a lot of work before us to improve the prosperity of our communities so that all New Zealanders are better off from a change of government.
As we head into the festive season, I am mindful of the many families needing extra support over this period. In our community, there are many great local organisations supporting families with groceries, gifts or cash donations online. Please give generously if you can, to support those in need this Christmas.
From my family to yours, I wish you all a safe and happy Christmas break.
With thanks and appreciation for your support.
Dan Bidois – MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz
Phone: 09 481 1089
Facebook: @danbidoismp Instagram: @danbidoismp
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
Real estate trends and tips for the Christmas holiday season in Auckland
As Christmas approaches, Auckland’s real estate market typically enters a unique phase. The summer holiday season brings opportunities and challenges for sellers, buyers and investors alike. Whether you’re planning to list your property or make a purchase, understanding the seasonal dynamics can give you a competitive edge.
Market slowdown with hidden opportunities
The weeks leading up to Christmas often see a quieter market, with fewer listings and reduced competition among buyers. However, this doesn’t mean opportunities disappear. Serious buyers, motivated sellers, and those looking to finalise deals before the New Year remain active. If you’re considering selling, highlight your property’s summer appeal - think outdoor entertainment spaces, gardens and proximity to Auckland’s beaches or parks.
The holiday season is also a great time to reflect on real estate goals for the coming year.
Timing
matters
For sellers, timing your listing is crucial. Many potential buyers take a break during the holidays, so listing early in December or waiting until mid-January, when the market picks up again, can maximise visibility. Buyers, on the other hand, might find excellent deals during the holiday time, especially if vendors are eager to close before year-end.
Plan for 2025
The holiday season is also a great time to reflect on real estate goals for the coming year. Whether you’re buying, selling or investing, use this period to research market trends, secure financing or even start preparing your home for sale.
With the right strategy, the Christmas period can be a time to enjoy the festive spirit while positioning yourself for real estate success in Auckland’s dynamic market.
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
Introducing Cousin Scott’s Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar Takapuna’s new favourite hang-out
Cousin Scott’s Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar has landed in Takapuna, bringing together the best of American eats with a Southern twist, live sports, and an atmosphere that’s all about fun and good times!
The menu is packed with all-American favourites like Nashville Hot Chicken, crispy wings, pickles, and the famous well-hung snag (yes, you read that right!). For heat seekers, there are six spice levels to choose from, or you can take on the ultimate challenge with the hottest Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich on the Shore — possibly even NZ — if you think you can handle it!
Whether you’re here for
a family dinner, a night out with friends, or to catch the game, Cousin Scott’s is buzzing with energy. Beyond the food, there’s no shortage of fun with arcade games, pool tables, foosball, and a saloon-style bar that’ll have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a classic American hang-out. And with 20 big screens showing everything from the NFL, NBA, UFC, to local favourites like the All Blacks, sports fans will never miss a beat!
Cousin Scott’s isn’t just a place to eat — it’s the ultimate spot for great food, live sports, and a seriously fun time. So grab your crew, head to Takapuna, and let the good times roll!
Cousin Scott’s Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar
A/486 Lake Road, Takapuna
Open: Monday to Thursday 11.30am –midnight, Friday and Saturday 11.30am –1am, Sunday 10am – 10pm.
Phone 09 485 3822
Email: info@cousinscotts.co.nz
Visit: cousinscotts.co.nz
Shore ON THE Eating Out
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Devonport
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
Persian and Mediterranean cuisine.
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
Authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. cafehungviet.co.nz
Calimero
Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. Corellis
Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafe.co.nz
Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery
The best of Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. 71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz
Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz
Manuka Cafe and Restaurant
Mediterranean inspired cuisine. 49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz
Vondel
Independent owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving food to suit every diet, alongside craft beer, natural wine and small-batch spirits. We hold weekly specials, winemakers' dinners, as well as private and charity events. Sign up to our mailing list or follow our social channels to keep up to date.
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 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
Hauraki Social Club
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
Belmont/Hauraki
Caffé Santini
Alessandro's back offering the best coffee on the Shore! 63c Lake Road, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com
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
Smales Farm, Takapuna
Fantail & Turtle
Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food! 09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz
Shake Out Burgers 09 489 8223. shakeout.co
Soho Thai 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com
The Grange Bar & Bistro
A favourite all-day bar and bistro. 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz
SMALESFARM
Fantail & Turtle
Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce. Supreme Winner - NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz Instagram fantailandturtle
DEVONPORT
HAURAKI
Takapuna
Alforno Italian Restaurant
34 Anzac Street. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz
Aubergine Restaurant
European and Mediterranean. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz
Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar
Italian eatery. 8 Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
Coffee with a conscience, service with a smile! Help Project Employ trainees fulfil their goal of gaining employment. 19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz
French Rendez-Vous
French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites.
2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site
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
Takapuna Beach Cafe
Views of the beach from a sun-drenched deck and lightfilled dining room.
22 The Promenade. takapunabeachcafe.co.nz
Taylors on Hurstmere
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar. 168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz
Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.
Welcome to our 'home away from home' cosy haven, where smiles abound with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine. Each customer becomes part of our extended family, savouring not only the taste of our offerings but also the heartfelt care that accompanies every visit. Step into our café and let us wrap you in a comforting embrace of hospitality and flavours that delight the senses.
Takapuna’s latest eatery has just dropped anchor with plenty of sunny outdoor seating overlooking Hurstmere Green. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and coffee for dining in or taking away, the friendly 'crew' are all hands-on-deck to serve exceptional coffee, delicious staple café offerings and a number of seafood options, as well as a beautiful range of freshly made cabinet food. Top picks include their signature open lobster burger, seafood chowder, and tasty eggs benedict. Catch 21 is fully licensed and provides a range of beer, bubbles and wine. Open Tues-Sun, weekdays 7.30am-3pm, weekends 8am-3pm.
Welcome to Cousin Scott's Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar in Takapuna — your local honky-tonk hangout! Enjoy mouthwatering American eats with a southern twist, like Nashville hot chicken and our famous well-hung snag. Choose from six heat levels, if you dare! With 20 TVs for live sports, pool tables, and arcade games, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with icecold brew. Here, everyone’s family!
A/486 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 485 3822
Open Mon-Thu 11:30am-12am, Fri-Sat 11:30am-1am, Sun 10am-10pm cousinscotts.co.nz
Takapuna Beach Cafe
This all-day dining destination is perched right on the water’s edge with views from a sun-drenched deck.
Open seven days a week, including public holidays with a 15% surcharge, it offers vibrant seasonal flavours and awardwinning gelato made fresh daily.
Fish & chip takeaways are available during the summer months.
Hops & Claret Drinkery
A premium bar with amazing tapas and cocktails. Cool and groovy with a distinctive underground vibe, Hops & Claret provides a refreshing retreat in summer and a cozy getaway in winter. Based on over 60 reviews received, Hops & Claret proudly scores 5 stars for food and 5 stars for service. Perfect for small functions or social occasions, catering for up to 40 people. Opens 3pm Wednesday-Saturday.
22 The Promenade, Takapuna info@takapunabeachcafe.co.nz takapunabeachcafe.co.nz @takapunabeachcafe
Taylors on Hurstmere
Yellow Hour
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre. Perfect for private parties, no venue hire! Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night!
Book your Christmas party with us! Set menu and packages available New Years Eve bookings now being taken Winner Lewisham Awards, Outstanding Local Establishment, Auckland North 168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510
Licenced Eatery
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
Tokyo Bay
TAKAPUNA
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
WAIRAUVALLEY
San Marco Trattoria & Bar
Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good - benvenuti!
Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz Facebook Instagram @sanmarcoauckland
TAKAPUNA
French Rendez-Vous
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
Hanoi Haven
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist. With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz Open 7 days, 11am to late.
BROWNSBAY
21 Days Bar & Brasserie
Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas functions.
37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz
MURRAY'SBAY
Ristorante La Spiaggia
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
TAKAPUNA
Waygu short rib And market fish
Tax Free available
Necklet: 9.01ct total Natural Morganites, with 2.38ct total Lab grown Diamonds, in 14ct Rose gold. 21.13grams
Earrings: 2.61ct total Natural Morganites, with 0.77ct total Lab grown Diamonds, in 14ct Rose gold . 5.71grams
$17,700
Have a "Holly Jolly" Christmas at Fifth Avenue
As we head into this festive season -looking forward to enjoying some fabulous summer weather with barbecues and family timeit’s always a good time to reflect on the past year. For many of us it hasn’t always been easy -both personally and professionallyand that being said I’d especially like to take this opportunity to say a HUGE thank you to all our loyal customers who have supported us this year. I feel very lucky and privileged to have such wonderful customers. Thank you to you ALL!
This year has seen a few changes in-store. We have invested heavily in our gold and diamond departments, conscious of offering a variety of different price points, which is so important in this challenging economy.
I can honestly say that we have the best range of gold and diamond jewellery we have ever had, and a lot of the range takes inspiration from European designs and luxury brands.
We have been working on a new Fifth Avenue Signature Collection. This is a specially curated range of jewellery that we have designed in-store. Diamond rings, diamond bracelets, pendants and earrings. These are available now and will be officially launched online soon. We welcome you to pop in and take a look!
My Jewellery Wardrobe is another special collection created in-store by Hannah - with the primary idea of offering quality and classic pieces of gold, silver and pearl jewellery at entry level and targeted price points. This is a great little range for those looking for beautiful and timeless pieces priced from $59 up to $1099.
This will be our last Christmas
with Tissot watches. After a 37-year relationship with the brand we have decided to end our partnership with them to focus solely on the diamond and custom made/bespoke side of the business – our specialty.
In terms of luxury watches however, we now have the opportunity to source (by special order) a variety of luxury brands including Rolex watches. We recently sold a beautiful ladies' full diamond set 'date-just' Rolex and we now have the ever-popular, gents' black dial Submariner (see picture) available in store at the time of writing this.
For any Rolex enquiries please contact Adrian, Hannah or Emma –we’ll happily answer any questions you may have.
Lastly, for the guys out there looking for some Christmas gift inspiration:
• Diamond stud earrings are always a favourite;
• A diamond tennis bracelet or necklet if you really want to spoil her;
• One of our Signature Collection diamond pendants (classic and beautiful pieces and an essential part of the jewellery wardrobe)
• Or there is always the luxurious feel of gold - a gold bracelet or bangle perhaps or some classic hoop earrings. Timeless and essential jewellery items to be worn and enjoyed every day.
We would like to wish you all a very merry and wonderful Christmas!
Adrian, Hannah, Emma, Giulia and Nina – the Fifth Avenue Team
Saturday 25 January 2025
TAKAPUNA BEACH
Takapuna – your ULTIMATE Summer Destination!
Part of the beauty of Takapuna is its constant holiday vibes, giving you the feeling of being on holiday at home! Here’s some highlights and suggestions to make the most of what Takapuna has to offer:
How does lunch by the sea sound?
Regatta Bar and Eatery is the perfect location for a delicious bite to eat whilst relaxing and enjoying the sea views. While they’re renowned for their oysters and seafood, Regatta also has the perfect meal for any taste, from burgers to pasta or delicious salads.
How does a spot of retail therapy sound?
Hurstmere Rd is home to many unique and boutique shops with the perfect little treat – from Augustine and RUBY, to Retrospace, and from Life For Men, to Fifth Avenue Jewellers – there’s something for every shopper!
How does an afternoon of beach activities sound?
The opportunities are endless at Takapuna Beach – if you’re after more than a leisurely swim, why not bring your snorkel mask and flippers and inspect the reef down by the boat ramp. Or try your hand at some Stand-Up Paddle Boarding through Girls Get Out There NZ – or head down on Sunday afternoons for some free Banana Boat rides.
If you want to escape the sun to a cooler temperature for a while, why not catch a movie at Monterey Cinemas, treat the kids to an exciting time at Escape HQ or some VR action at Thrillzone, or head along to the Bruce Mason Centre or The PumpHouse for a dose of live-action entertainment! Pair that with some alfresco dining and you’ll have a summer night out worthy of a couple of Instagram posts!
There is always something happening in Takapuna! Check out our event calendar for a full list of upcoming events for the summer months!
Top 10 things to do in Takapuna:
1. Takapuna Beach – walk the beach, go for a swim, try stand-up paddle boarding or soak up the sunshine on this beautiful white sand beach while admiring the views across the Hauraki Gulf.
2. Enjoy the tastes of Takapuna with over 100 places to eat and drink – from chic cafes to healthy eats to world flavours, tasty takeaways or stunning beachfront dining, Takapuna has a raft of tasty treats just for you.
3. Shop for something special. From fashion to jewellery to exquisite homewares and gifts, you will find just the right thing from the range of high street stores, designer boutiques and Shore City Shopping Centre.
4. Discover an ancient fossil forest on the ‘Lava trail’ between Takapuna and Milford which forms part of the Te Araroa walkway. This is a stunning seaside walk along the coast.
5. Pack a picnic and head to Gould Reserve on Takapuna Beach or the shores of Lake Pupuke.
6. Get out on the water and try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding, wind surfing, sailing, canoeing, or even snorkelling!
7. Stroll through Takapuna’s famous Sunday Market to find anything from fresh fruit and vegetables, to crafts, furniture and antiques.
8. Immerse your cultural self in live theatre, music, arts, culture and heritage at Bruce Mason Centre, PumpHouse Theatre, Lakehouse Arts Centre and Takapuna Beachside Cinema.
9. Find inner peace with restorative yoga, massage, reflexology session or pump up the pulse with an exercise class or Pilates session.
10. Bring the family to one of Auckland’s best playgrounds – The all-abilities Takapuna Beach Playground, then recharge with an ice cream or something to eat
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
The all new BMW X3 has arrived. Test drive now at Continental Cars BMW.
Are you feeling bloated, nauseous, fatigued, or have a burning pain in your stomach? You may have a common bacterial infection – Helicobacter Pylori (H.pylori).
H. pylori is extremely common and infects the stomach lining of roughly half the world's population. In New Zealand it is estimated to be present in nearly 20% of New Zealanders.
Patients can range from being symptomless, to suffering from stomach pain, bloating, nausea, weight loss, fatigue and low iron levels. Severe forms can include bleeding or burst stomach ulcers, and even stomach cancer. In fact, H. pylori is the leading cause of stomach cancer worldwide and is recognised by the World Health Organization as a carcinogen (proven to cause cancer).
So, if you have symptoms, or are a close contact of someone who is infected, you should strongly consider getting tested. Luckily, the diagnosis is usually straightforward and can be arranged by your GP, or directly through us.
The diagnosis can be made in three ways:
1. A stool antigen test detecting parts of the bacteria directly (most common).
2. A blood test looking for levels of antibodies to H. pylori (less common).
3. Via a Gastroscopy - biopsies taken from the stomach to detect the bacteria directly.
These tests are fairly accurate, but the sensitivity can be decreased if you are taking proton pump inhibitors (Losec, Panzop, Lanzol), or
antibiotics. The stool test is the most common method, but if you have concerning symptoms such as severe pain, a low blood count, or weight loss, you may be advised to proceed straight to a gastroscopy to assess the stomach lining. This procedure is minimally invasive, takes around 10 minutes, and the biopsies are painless and safe.
If you have the infection, treatment consists of taking a course of medications, antibiotics and acid suppression for 10-14 days. Treatment side effects are mostly mild. They can usually be easily managed and rarely result in treatment failure.
So if you are concerned you may have H. pylori, have a chat to your GP or come and see us at Waitemata Endoscopy.
Dr Carl Freyer (BSc, MBBS, FRACP)
Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist
Waitemata Endoscopy
Summer on the Shore
By Christine Young
Where better than the North Shore for a summer staycation? Make the most of early summer to explore local beaches, bush walks, cycleways, pump tracks and more. Add in special events, and activities for those less keen on the outdoors or for those (rare, we hope) wet days over summer, and there’s something for everyone. Christine Young highlights just a selection of events and places to enjoy this summer.
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
You need to wait until after the main holiday season for some events, but December/ January options include:
• An outdoor movie night in Waiwharariki Anzac Square, Takapuna. Saturday 2 December from 3-10pm.
• A Christmas party, at Spencer on Byron Hotel in Takapuna on Saturday 21 December at 7pm.
• Sunsetter Festival on Saturday 18 January 2025, at Windsor Reserve on the Devonport waterfront, with a feast of music, food and wine. Tickets have already sold out, but you can go on a waiting list; email info@highlife.co.nz with your full name and the number of GA or VIP tickets you require.
• Takapuna Summer Days Festival at Takapuna beach reserve on Saturday 25 January from 10am-7pm. As ever, entertainment and fun for younger family members during the day, with the music ramping up later in the day.
ARTS & CULTURE
• You have to be in early for some Christmas events. Luminata Voices: ‘A Christmas High Tea’, has two High Tea events on 1 December at the Tindall Auditorium, Rosmini College, featuring carols and seasonal music. The perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and family. But this event has been a sell-out for the past two years – and this year’s no different. Better luck next year.
• Make sure you book for ‘The Santa Claus Show 2024’, by Tim Bray Theatre Company. It’s the perfect family Christmas tale, best suited to ages 3-8, on at The PumpHouse Theatre from Sunday 1 December – Sunday 22 December, at 10:30am and 1pm every day except Mondays.
• Also pre-Christmas at The PumpHouse, enjoy a laugh at ‘Late Night Knife Fight’, a comedy/improv event, on 6 December, and ‘Casual First Date’ on 7 December – an “improvised sketch comedy show where the strange and mundane get gleefully close!”
• Cirque Africa performs at the Bruce Mason Centre on 2 December at 7.30pm in just one show. Traditional African culture, circus-style with acrobats and dancers, musicians and contortionists in a two-hour spectacle.
• Also at the Bruce Mason Centre, on 6
December at 7.30pm and 7 December at 2.30pm, is Australian magician Cosentino with his spectacular new show ‘Decenium - The Greatest Hits Tour’. Suitable for ages 5+.
• Aotango Quintet presents an evening of tango and dance on 6 December at Westlake Girls Event Centre.
• On 9 December at 11am, The Royal New Zealand Navy Band takes you on a journey through favourite Christmas music, in the last of this year’s ‘Morning Melodies’ concerts at the Bruce Mason Centre.
• Perfectly timed to boost pre-Christmas excitement for young family members are two ‘Tunes for Tamariki Kirihimete’ performances by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra at Bruce Mason Centre on 15 December at 2pm or 3.30pm. Sing-a-long, dance-a-long, hourlong concerts for your under-sevens, to really get into Christmas – just in case their anticipation levels needed any more elevation.
• With Christmas over, it’s time for something different. Operatunity presents ‘The Thistle & The Shamrock’, a romp through the best of Irish and Scottish ballads, jigs, jokes and patriotic songs with a fiddler, accordionist and singers. Windsor Park Baptist Church, Mairangi Bay, Wednesday 15 January at 11am.
• From 18 January – 15 February, Shoreside Theatre presents Auckland Shakespeare in the Park, at The PumpHouse amphitheatre. Pick one or both of ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ and ‘Richard III’ to enjoy an all-too-rare outdoor Shakespearean outing.
North Shore Youth Music performs at Christmas Music in the Square
Takapuna Summer Days
Takapuna Christmas Carnival
WALKING, CYCLING AND ENJOYING SUMMER OUTDOORS
Here on the Shore, we’re lucky to have almost unlimited bush walks and beaches to enjoy. With access restored to the Takapuna-Milford coastal walkway, this is sure to be popular (if not over-popular) during the summer months.
If you haven’t already, tick off Fort Takapuna above Narrow Neck. O Peretu (the original name for this headland) was occupied first by Māori and then used by the New Zealand Defence Forces for over a century. It’s now a wonderful open area, great for walks and picnicking, with easy access from Narrow Neck, and a path along the side of the remaining naval facilities offering an easy circular walk back along the road to Narrow Neck, or a short walk to Cheltenham beach.
While you’re at this end of the Devonport peninsula, add in a hike on one (or both) of the two iconic maunga: Takarunga/Mount Victoria and Maungauika/North Head. Absorb some of North Shore’s history, explore the tunnels or just enjoy 360-degree views of the city, harbour and Hauraki Gulf islands.
Inland walks more your thing? Smiths Bush has been re-opened with new boardwalks for an easy circular family walk starting and finishing at Onewa domain. There’s a great new section of steps and boardwalk along what used to be a sometimes-muddy section of the Lake Pupuke track near Sylvan Park. Start from Henderson Park to reach Sylvan Park through a bird nesting area (no dogs allowed, and completely closed during the breeding season from September - December), and continue across Sylvan Park and through the new boardwalk section to Milford School. The whole circuit of Lake Pupuke (about 7km) then takes in some of Shakespeare Road before you can reconnect with the lake near the hospital, before heading up Shea Terrace before rejoining the lake via Rangatira Avenue and Lakeside Road and across Killarney Park to The PumpHouse. Complete the circuit along Manurere and Hurstmere Roads.
Or try one (or more) of the many tracks in Le Roys Bush. Some are still closed due to the 2023 slips, but make your way up to Hinemoa Street and down quiet roads and tracks to the Chelsea Sugar factory for a sugar hit (and coffee!), or head north to Onewa Road to link up to the fantastic board walk across Kauri Glen (start at Kauri Glen Road) for spectacular close-ups of the kauri trees in Northcote.
'I love Takapuna' lists its seven favourite local walks at https://www.ilovetakapuna. co.nz/whats-hot/get-moving-7-of-takapunasbest-local-walks/. For other walks, check out the Auckland Council map at https://www. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/get-
outdoors/aklpaths/Pages/path-map.aspx. Cyclists aren’t forgotten on the Shore either, with 139 cycle routes to explore. Be warned, most involve hills – but hey, that’s what e-bikes are for. Try the Devonport–Takapuna shared path, starting in Devonport and skirting the southern coastline though Bayswater and Hauraki to Esmonde Road. If you’re up for it, continue through Takapuna towards Milford, and along Milford Road, Inga Road and up Beach Road to Aberdeen Road. (Be warned, some of this is steep, and on-road – but no worse than Francis Street on the Devonport – Takapuna route.) At the top of Aberdeen Road, turn right towards Forrest Hill Road to rejoin the cycle path, and coast downhill to Taharoto Road and back along the cycle path to Takapuna. Or, from Esmonde Road, bike along Akoranga Drive, turn left into Northcote Road and follow the shared cycle/walking path to Northcote Point. Park the bikes by the Northcote ferry terminal, and walk up the steps to the lookout underneath the Harbour Bridge. After a short uphill return, stop for well-earned refreshments at the Northcote Tavern, or one of the cafés on Northcote’s Queen Street near the Bridgeway theatre. Or catch a ferry back to the city from Northcote Point, and then back to Devonport… Other great rides on the Shore can be found on the Auckland Transport North Shore cycleway map (https://at.govt.nz/ media/1977813/cycle-network-map-n1-northshore.pdf) or the family-friendly blog https:// gettinglost.co.nz/blogs/blog/exploring-northshore-bike.
For runners and swimmers, the Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series on Takapuna beach takes a break over December and January – but don’t use that as an excuse not to get into the water, or go for a run along Takapuna or any of the Shore’s other great beaches. Do your training before the series resumes in February. Beach Series swim and run distances are geared to include the whole family, including a 250m swim for kids, and a 5km run for non-swimmers. For more info, check out https://beachseries.co.nz/
SPORTS EVENTS
Sports events tend to take a break over summer. But if you need a sports hit, what about:
• The mixed martial arts Shuriken Fight Series, on Saturday 7 December at 4pm at Eventfinda Stadium, and…
• The BNZ Breakers also at Eventfinda Stadium, for one NBL25 game only, on Thursday 12 December. Doors open at 6.30 Tip-off at 7.30pm
QUIET TIMES INDOORS
Sometimes you just need respite from the pre-Christmas rush, or the weather means
indoor activities are called for. And who can beat a good book to read as you relax over summer? Check out:
• Your local library – Devonport, Northcote, Birkenhead, Takapuna, Glenfield, East Coast Bays and Albany. Open right through summer except statutory holidays. Check out your local library for what’s on and the latest great reading material at aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/ .
RETAIL THERAPY
Of course you’re shopping. Locally, we hope. Take advantage of these to mix duty with pleasure:
• Local Christmas celebrations and Santa parades
• Buskers in Hurstmere Road on Fridays and Saturdays from 14 November – 21 December (11am-2pm).
• Even better, bring the family to Christmas Music in the Square – Waiwharariki Anzac Square – from 11am-3pm on 14 and 21 December.
• Local markets: the Devonport market at the ferry terminal on Sunday 2 December; the Albany Community or Greenhithe Village markets on Saturday 7 December; the Smales Farm market on Sunday 8 December; the vinyl record sales in Browns Bay on Saturday 14 December or Albany on 16 December; and the Long Bay Village Twilight market on 15 December. If you’re a last-minute shopper, head for the Birkenhead RSA market on Sunday 22 December.
Whatever you choose to do, make the most of the North Shore lifestyle and the myriad events and activities on offer.
Lake Pupuke board walk
Auckland Harbour bridge from the end of Northcote Point
Smiths Bush is an easy, flat board walk circuit
LIFEBOAT COMMUNITY TRUST
Elevating and connecting our community
We are a non-profit charitable organisation devoted to making our Browns Bay community a better place through various initiatives designed to create social connections and to help those in need.
FREE COMMUNITY LUNCH
All are welcome to join us every Wednesday, from 12.30pm to 2pm at St Anne’s Hall, Beach Road, Browns Bay. Enjoy a free lunch and time to meet new people and make new friends! For more details call John or Rita Brothers on 022 651 1240.
Lifeboat Community Trust | Charity number: CC56563 lifeboatcommunitytrust@gmail.com | #Lifeboat Community Trust Group
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder
How to daytime nap like a champion
When night-time sleep is disrupted, unrefreshing or not long enough, many of us are prone to daytime drowsiness, prompting us to take naps or perhaps even nod off unintentionally. Are there any advantages or disadvantages to daytime napping? And how can you make the most of a good daytime nap without impacting your night-time sleep?
Every year, as the Christmas holidays get closer, I start to plant the seeds of falling in love with and making more time for sleep. As the year progresses, we can find ourselves perpetually sleep-deprived. So, is a nap a good idea and if yes, then how should we go about it?
Napping, when done right, can be a powerful way to restore energy and alertness. A brief, well-timed nap can help fight fatigue without leaving you groggy - provided it’s managed wisely. For those affected by insufficient or interrupted sleep, such as night shift workers, frequent travellers, students, and anyone dealing with sleep difficulties, a 'power nap' really can be an effective solution.
What is a power nap?
A power nap is a brief, intentional rest designed to relieve tiredness and boost alertness. The key to a successful power nap is timing it to avoid deeper sleep stages. Waking from lighter sleep stages helps you feel refreshed. Sleeping too long and waking up in a deep sleep phase leaves us feeling rather than sluggish - a state known as 'sleep inertia'.
How long should a power nap be?
Research suggests that naps of 10 to 30 minutes are ideal for quickly feeling rejuvenated. Napping for 20 minutes or less helps boost alertness and cognitive function without leaving you groggy. Short naps are also unlikely to interfere with night-time sleep if taken in the early or mid-afternoon. A longer nap - about 90 minutes - can also be beneficial, as it completes a full sleep cycle. Since lighter sleep occurs at the end of each sleep cycle, a 90-minute nap usually leads to minimal grogginess. Longer naps can impact night-time sleepiness, so reserve these for the odd occasion when you really need them.
Benefits of power naps
Power naps can offer a range of benefits:
• Reduced fatigue
• Increased alertness and focus
• Improved performance and safety for shift workers
• Enhanced memory retention
• Faster reaction times
• Improved mood
• Better heart health
How to take an effective power nap
To make the most of a power nap, try the following:
1. Set a timer: Keep your nap to approximately 20 minutes. Set an alarm for 25 minutes to give yourself five minutes to wind down and fall asleep and also to wake you up so you avoid oversleeping.
2. Prepare for comfort and an undisturbed rest:
• Cool the room to 18-22°C.
• Silence electronic devices. Set to 'do not disturb' for 30 minutes.
• Lie down somewhere comfortable, preferably your bed which is flat and good alignment for your neck and spine.
• Use an eye mask and blackout curtains.
• Block any ambient light from clocks or screens.
• YouTube some sleep music to help you relax. Turn off ads that may wake you.
• Use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones if needed to block out neighbourhood noises.
3. Added energy: Some people drink a small amount of caffeine before napping for a 'coffee nap', where they time it so the caffeine takes effect as they wake. Only do this technique if you can still avoid caffeine in the nine hours before bedtime, to maintain healthy sleep at night.
4. Post-nap tips: To shake off any residual grogginess, try stepping outside for sunlight, splashing your face with cool water, drinking 200mls of fresh cool water, doing some gentle squats, and punching your arms in the air a few times to get the circulation going.
5. Supplements to aid sleep: Research shows multiple forms of magnesium are very supportive in activating GABA, our relaxation and sleep pathways neurotransmitter. Because gut lining absorption of magnesium can diminish as we age, a magnesium liquid or magnesium powder added to water or diluted juice is considered best practice.
6. Supplements to wake us up and keep us feeling calm, centred and in control: ‘Daytime Revive’ from SleepDrops is an expert adrenal gland and endocrine tonic for the whole body. Like Rescue Remedy but with the added bonus of 18 herbs to support optimal function of our thyroid, adrenal glands, heart, liver and digestion, it really is a great daytime go-to , to keep us feeling our best all day, especially if life is challenging and energy can’t be improved by coffee because it doesn’t suit your constitution.
A few drops of Daytime Revive under the tongue can be just the treat after waking from a nap, or if life is really demanding too much of you, and a nap is out of the question.
For more information on all our expert sleep and stress support products please visit us at www.SleepDrops.co.nz or give us a call and talk to us directly at 0800 345 999.
#supportlocal the
CRAVEHOME
Our favorite CIRCA outdoor candle, formulated with advanced fragrance technology to help repel insects, this exquisite blend unveils the vibrant notes of sweet mandarin, neroli, and zesty orange blossom. Perfectly designed to elevate your summer and festive seasonbringing both freshness and protection, all in one. 30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
MISTER MINIT - GLENFIELD MALL
Mister Minit specialises in personalisation services to add a thoughtful touch to your gifts this Christmas. Choose from their range of items ready to be personalised or bring your own to create something unique. Visit them today at Glenfield Mall!
Level 2, by Woolworths 09 441 6066
BEGGS
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
Please check website for opening hours
PAINTED BIRD VINTAGE
Extraordinary vintage beckons at Painted Bird! Escape the ordinary into our meticulously curated world of rare treasures. Local. Sustainable. Unique. The Aviary awaits—online shopping and personal styling. Use CHANNEL24 to unlock your vintage dream.
Festive season greetings from all at Florienne 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
RIBBON & BLUES
Take your Christmas wrapping and decorating to the next level. We have an inspiring range of wrapping paper, ribbons, gift tags, napkins, a great selection of sale products and more in our pop-up shop now open Mon-Sat 10-4.
Perfect gifts for friends and family. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz
COSI FAN TUTTE
The 'Fox Under the Moon' range of books and cards is inspired by the simplicity of everyday life and the complicated emotions that go with it. Check out the full range exclusively at Cosi Fan Tutte. 73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz Instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
WALLACE COTTON
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
THE SHEEPSKIN FACTORY
Shop with us this holiday season! Find the perfect gifts and enjoy FREE gift wrapping on every purchase.
34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679
thesheepskinfactory.co.nz
9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
FROM $57,980 +ORC
• New i-Cockpit with 21’’ panoramic display
• 360° HD colour Camera (4x)
• Fastback SUV design
FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS. WLTP values(1): Fuel consumption of 5.4 in the WLTP combined cycle (l/100 km) CO2 emissions (combined) WLTP: 123 (g/km). The homologation values are determined according to the WLTP mixed cycle on the basis of which new vehicles have been homologated since September 1, 2018, updated from 2 January 2022. The values indicated are for comparison purposes. Fuel consumption and CO₂ emission values may be different and may vary depending on the conditions of use and various factors such as: options, ambient temperature, driving style, speed, total weight , the use of certain equipment (air conditioning, heating, radio, navigation, lights, etc.), the type of tyres , the state of the road, the external climatic conditions, etc.
Big style on the North Shore
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
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.
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.
Merry Christmas from NZ Blood
On behalf of the NZBS we would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and hope you all have a fantastic break over the holiday period.
Over the last 12 months it has been our absolute pleasure welcoming our donors, both regular and new, to our Takapuna Donor Centre and North Shore Mobile drives, and we thank you for your blood/plasma donations. Also, please understand, we appreciate and acknowledge the lives you have saved and the time you have committed to donate.
For those of you who are travelling away for your holiday, please travel safely and enjoy your break. For those of you not going away, we understand, why go anywhere when the North Shore is Auckland’s holiday resort?
We will be remiss if we did not advise you of the blood and plasma drives over the December/January months, so please view our schedule.
Remember the need for blood and plasma does not take a holiday. In fact demand can increase, so if you are available please
visit a mobile, or come in and see us in Takapuna.
If you are holidaying outside of Auckland, please feel free to visit nzblood.co.nz to find a donor centre near to where you are staying.
We would appreciate you even more.
Stay safe, travel safe and see you all soon.
More plasma donors needed
The US is currently topping up New Zealand's supplies of a vital blood product, but if we had more plasma donors we could be self-sufficient.
Demand for life-saving plasma is growing at such a rate that New Zealand is falling further and further behind on its supplies, forcing it to pay millions of dollars every year for immunoglobulin from America, one of the few countries that pays people to donate.
Plasma is the yellow liquid component of blood that is needed to help the body recover from injury, distribute nutrients, remove waste and prevent infection. It is used to treat up to 50 illnesses, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. Immunoglobulin is a key protein in plasma.
New Zealand hospitals rely on donors - around 17,500 of them - who give plasma on a regular basis through the national blood service, Te Ratonga Toto O Aotearoa. It amounts to several tonnes a year, but it is well short of what's needed.
NZ Blood's transfusion medicine specialist, Dr Richard Charlewood says New Zealand is at a tipping point.
"Unless we can get our plasma donation numbers up we're going to get further and further behind. That's not good for us in a financial sense, in that we have to buy plasma from other countries, it's not good for us from a self-sufficiency perspective.
"When Covid hit and donation numbers went down in the United States they made it very clear to the world that it is a United Statesfirst policy," he says.
That means the US will not run out of intravenous immunoglobulin for itself - it will simply stop providing to other countries.
"As a small country with a small value contract we would probably be dropped fairly quickly," Dr Charlewood says.
It is called liquid gold because immunoglobulin is more valuable than gold. The global market for plasma is estimated to be worth
more than $50 billion, rising to $75 billion by 2027. The US profits most from the global market because it is responsible for 70 percent of all the plasma on the world blood market.
Peter Jaworski of Georgetown University in the US has gathered the data on the few countries that are self-sufficient on plasma and those that aren't, like New Zealand and Australia.
Jaworski, an associate teaching professor of Strategy, Ethics, Economics, and Public Policy at Georgetown's McDonough School of Business, estimates New Zealand now pays $10 million a year to import plasma.
New Zealand was 100 percent self-sufficient until 2012, but until 2016 the amount of imported immunoglobulin was insignificant.
"In 2015, New Zealand was probably the only country in the world that was self-sufficient in plasma for immunoglobulin without help from the commercial sector, and without compensating donors," Jaworski says.
Excerpt from RNZ “Call to arms for plasma”.
Transfusion Medicine Specialist Dr Richard Charlewood at NZ Blood in Auckland Photo: NZ Blood Service.
#Gramworthy
Our round-up of posts from local kids' stores on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Dominique from @kidzstuffonline
Dominique Tuck is the owner of Kidz Stuff Online, an independent children’s store located in Birkenhead (and online!) stocking a wide range of gifts and toys for children of all ages including wooden toys and things that will take children through the years. Dominique is a mum of two grown kids, she lives in Northcote and enjoys walking with friends and being by the water as much as possible. Dominique talks about using Instagram and some notable toys in the store for this festive season and the summer months ahead.
Channel Mag: Tell readers a little bit about your kids' store and how it came about…
Dominique Tuck: When I had my son ( second child), I felt a gap for boys’ toys so decided to start a side hustle alongside being a full-time mum, curating and selling toys online. It’s grown over the last 15 years to be a well-established online toyshop and great local toyshop in Birkenhead village.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you? Who do you recommend following and why? I do Instagram, but I mostly follow people like me who are working hard to create a brand. I like getting messy at a local messy play group, and also Augustine as I love her clothes.
Which other local businesses do social media well?
Crave home and Birkenhead village do Facebook well and love to see what’s new and happening.
With the festive season and summer around the corner, what do you expect will be big for you in store?
We have a such a wide selection with ages and budget, but science kits always do so well and kites! With all the wind, they are selling well!
What products are you loving right now and why?
We have just become a Lego stockist so definitely loving having that instore. Our top selling item right now is Hey Clay, an air-dry modelling clay that's good for most ages. kidzstuffonline.co.nz • 16 Mokoia Road Birkenhead.
This store in Takapuna is always full with the most beautiful selection of clothing, toys and gifts for our little ones like the ride-on ladybug. @mummum.co.nz
We could look through their kids' section for hours, think books, gorgeous felt toys and much more. Take a trip to their Devonport store now! @cosifantutte_devonport
Local label with some fantastic options for swimming togs, hats, sandals and bags for our youngest family members, perfect for all summer long! Buy online or visit their showroom in Rosedale. @crywolfchild
Dominique Tuck and Santa
WHAT’S TRENDING
KESS HAIR AND BEAUTY
FANOLA: Professional Haircare
Fanola’s innovative formulas, including the famous No Yellow and No Orange ranges, are designed to keep your hair vibrant, nourished and free of brassy tones. Available now at Kess Hair and Beauty, Glenfield Mall!
FARMERS
Dior Sauvage Eau De Parfum
Dior Sauvage Eau de Parfum is the men's fragrance inspired by the desert at sundown. This bold and fresh fragrance makes the perfect gift. With its woody and spicy notes, Sauvage Eau de Parfum is timeless and unforgettable.
PASCOES
S/S 19CM Hollow Belcher with Heart Charm Bracelet
Give the gift of elegance with an Italian-made sterling silver bracelet, featuring an engravable heart charm for a personal
Toniebox Playtime Puppy Starter Set
Meet the Toniebox - a new audio system designed for little listeners. Turn it on, pop a Tonie on top and let the audio adventure begin. Tonies are characters that feature content, stories and songs from an ever-growing collection of modern favourites and timeless classics.
Your Christmas Gift Guide
Star Wars - Ewok Pet Bottle
Spoil your furry friends this Christmas with EB Games & Zing’s Pop Culture Pet range! Discover fun accessories, like this adorable Ewok Pet Bottle, perfect for Star Wars fanatics and their pets.
GECKO IN THE VILLAGE
Flox Wai - Cross Body Bag
Step into luxury with a natural palette inspired by the serene waterways of Aotearoa. The Wai Cross Body Bag features a dual-compartment design, ensuring e ortless organisation for all your daily essentials.
STAFF PICK
BRISCOES
Philips Series 1000 Shaver S1151/00
The Philips Series 1000 Shaver o ers a seamless and e cient shaving experience, designed to cater to your grooming needs without compromise. Engineered with 27 self-sharpening ComfortCut blades, it ensures a close, clean shave.
PAPER PLUS
Tasty by Chelsea Winter
Chelsea's recipes are big on flavour, with delicious tweaks taking them to the next level of deliciousness. She's a fan of good old comfort food, taking favourites like pies, lasagnes and traybakes and making them fresh and new - and still every bit as tasty as the good old classics.
JOIN US FOR A
AT GLENFIELD MALL
Santa is coming Merry Christmas
FREE GIFT-WRAPPING
EXTENDED SHOPPING HOURS
FACE PAINTING
ROAMING CHARACTERS
PHOTOS WITH SANTA AND MORE!
SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER
Santa arriving aboard Sammy the Steam Train, accompanied by our Roaming Characters
Santa Photos and Gift-Wrapping Commences
The Madeleines Trio
Carmel’s Face Painting
Sammy the Steam Train Rides
KEEP UP TO DATE WITH OUR ACTIVITIES ON OUR SOCIALS AND ON OUR WEBSITE
Life in the driving seat at the America’s Cup
We love highlighting Shore people doing interesting things. We reckon it doesn’t get much better than the past few months of Northcote resident Ian Darby’s life. Ian and his wife Kate –stalwarts of the Wakatere Boating Club – spent three months in the sun in Barcelona. Ian was the skipper of the Emirates Team New Zealand chase boat – one of seven Hydrogenpowered boats supporting the teams at the 37th America's Cup that took place in the iconic Spanish city. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with Ian when he returned from his adventure in early November.
Aidan Bennett: What a fantastic adventure Ian. How did you end up getting the gig in Barcelona?
Ian Darby: I was working with Americas Cup Event Limited (ACE), the organisation that was responsible for running all associated America’s Cup events in Barcelona. These included the Louis Vuitton preliminary regatta and challenger series, Puig Women’s America’s Cup and the UniCredit Youth America’s Cup.
ACE activities included hospitality, race management, on-water operations, security, media operations, sponsorship, marketing, communications and safety for all events.
A good friend was already working for ACE from previous events and asked me if I would be interested in getting involved, as they needed someone with a technical background. Of course, I jumped at such an opportunity, and the rest is history.
Tell us about the boat. We could see them during the coverage, they looked to be sleek and quick machines, and we understand powered by hydrogen. What were they like to skipper?
The boats were brand new and constructed in China by an Australian boat building company. They were modelled on the prototype hydrogen chase boat called ‘Chase Zero’ designed and built by Emirates Team New Zealand back in 2022. These new boats are 13 metres in length and weighed five tonnes. They were designed to take VIP guests out to follow the racing yachts around the course during racing and had to go 50 knots (92km/h) to keep up with the racing yachts.
Each boat contained up to 34kg of hydrogen gas (stored at up to 350 bar) within four tanks that powered the Toyota fuel cells in each hull of the boat. Each fuel cell could in turn provide up to 80kW of electricity to
power the boat's high voltage batteries and electric motors. The boats had a range of up to five hours at a cruising speed of 30 knots once full of hydrogen.
The boats are very different to drive compared to a normal power boat of a similar size, as they are not very manoeuvrable due to the large foils beneath the boats. The confused sea state most days in Barcelona made foiling quite difficult at times.
Understanding the systems and sensors on the boat was important, so it was invaluable to be involved during the commissioning phase alongside the technical experts, to ensure we could interpret any alarms if they occurred.
On face value this gig looks like a holiday adventure, but I have heard it was pretty full-on work?
Yes, I worked 66 days out of 80 while I was
Ian Darby and the chase boat he skippered in Barcelona.
The hydrogen-powered chase boat in dock at Barcelona. NZLHO1 was a sleek machine.
in Barcelona. The first month we spent a lot of time getting all the boats' systems running reliably and from then on there was always an event happening involving guests or when no racing was on, we still had maintenance to do on the boats.
Tell us what a typical race day involved for Ian Darby, chase boat skipper?
The day started with a coffee and croissant meeting at 0730 at our local café to catch up on weather updates of what was happening for the day ahead. We’d then travel to the commercial dock to refuel with hydrogen gas.
Once there we would check all the boat's systems were running correctly and make any adjustments or repairs required to ensure the boat was ready to pick up guests for the afternoon racing.
We would then depart dock with TV crew to film waka and Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ) boat dock-out ceremony each morning. Then we would return TV crew to the dock, ensure radio, race management tablet and tracker were on-board as well as drinks and snacks for our guests.
The boat needed to be in pristine condition, so most days the windows were cleaned and decks washed before departure began.
We would pick up guests from Port Olimpic (a 15-minute journey from our dock at Port Vell). We ‘d take the guests out onto the racecourse and follow the race yachts around the course until the conclusion of racing.
Then drop guests back to Port Olimpic hospitality dock and return to Port Vell, wash the boat down and complete all daily postmotoring checks and maintenance schedule. Then return radio, tablet and tracker for overnight charging.
Then lastly, ensure boat secured overnight and follow up with technical team for any issues if required.
Who were the most famous people that you had on the boat?
My personal favourite was Scott Dixon, as
I am a big fan of his and have followed Indy car racing for many years. I also had Spanish Government ministers, members of the Spanish royal family, Sir Stephen and Lady Margaret Tindall and many other VIP sponsors.
For the last America's Cup race, I had onboard Bernard Arnault (CEO of LVMH) and Pietro Beccari (CEO of Louis Vuitton), and their wives.
This must have been a great adventure, what were the highlights?
All the amazing people I met were the highlight for me. I had an amazing team around me, and everyone was so helpful and supportive. Also, the number of Kiwis that turned up during the Cup was incredible. Seeing hundreds of Kiwis cheering each day during the ETNZ dockouts and dock-ins was superb.
You were obviously close to the action, why do you think Emirates Team New Zealand won so convincingly?
To win any yacht race requires a fast, reliable boat that is sailed well. I think ETNZ ticked all these boxes during this regatta. The ingenuity and level of attention and detail that goes into everything that ETNZ does is incredible to witness first-hand and is why they are such a successful team.
Was the after-party huge or did you just go home early?
The Saturday that we won was such a great day. Every Kiwi in Barcelona was buzzing, and all the waterfront bars and restaurants were full of happy Kiwis. I went out with my wife Kate, friends and work colleagues to celebrate and we ended up cycling home up Las Ramblas around 2am after a fun and entertaining evening.
Was Barcelona a good venue?
Barcelona was exceptional! It is a beautiful city with so much culture, history and heritage to see. All the locals were warm and welcoming and really turned on an amazing event. Being so central in Europe also made it very accessible to many boats and people to visit. Kate and I loved living in the city and were sad to leave.
How likely do you think we will see the next event back in Auckland where it belongs?
Good question, but I really don’t know. Personally, I would love to see it back here again, but I know it takes a lot of collaborative effort and money to ensure a successful event, so I really hope the “stars align” to make it happen in future…
NZLHO1 (chase boat) in action with Taihoro, Team New Zealand's winning America's Cup boat. On board luxury and information.
Team New Zealand's Tahoro and Ian Darby's chase boat in action on the course.
Ian and Kate Darby
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Whatever your requirements, we can provide expert help. Contact your local Investment Advisers for a no-obligation review of your existing investment arrangements.
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Summer 2024 special
Comprehensive General Dentistry
Invisalign clear plastic aligners
Digital Dentistry ( 3 Shape Trios & CBCT scanning)
Teeth Whitening
Cone Bean CT guided surgical implant placement
Dentures
Cosmetic Dentistry
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Free WINZ quotes
Free Teen dentistry (13-18 year olds)
PHILIPS Zoom Teeth Whitening
Proven Group proves popular with local businesswomen
The Proven Group is an initiative established over five years ago by Janet Marshall and Leanne Coste for professional women. Current members represent a range of industries, including business coaching, property, medical, finance, education and hospitality. They acknowledge that whether they are business owners, in management, or employed in a male-dominated industry, having the opportunity to be connected with other like-minded women is very valuable.
Janet and Leanne felt that whilst networking groups can offer benefits, the Proven Group’s purpose was to create a strong personal network with other like-minded professionals, and hence the Proven Group was created. They meet bi-monthly in a relaxed environment over a glass of wine (or two!). The group provides peer-to-peer support and skill sharing and offers group mentoring for ladies seeking guidance and support on their personal career journey.
Alessandra Mayo (Ali), a young woman who is embarking on her career after graduating from Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and who attended the last Proven Group mentor meeting, comments, "I just wanted to say thank you so much for inviting me to the Proven Group mentor event. I really enjoyed it and found it very inspiring to hear the stories - the highs and lows - of eight very successful businesswomen from a range of different industries and backgrounds."
Key points which Ali took away were:
• Through business, you learn the importance of character; staying true to yourself, your beliefs and intuition. Never compromise your integrity.
• The importance of holding your ground, when faced with a problem
or shortcoming. In business, always think about how you can improve and act on it.
• As a woman, it is not a weakness to bring your emotions to the table.
• Learning and knowing when something has reached its cycle pointwhen to close a door on a business (or anything), and when it is time to open a new door of opportunity.
• Working with people who have strengths where you have weaknesses, especially working in a partnership/relationship. This is how great and successful teams are made.
• There will always be another opportunity waiting for you around the corner.
• Follow/pursue whatever it is that doesn't feel like work to you; that is your passion and your talent.
• Often the work that you are the most comfortable doing is the work you are (often) the most passionate about and talented at.
• Find the challenges within this passion/talent to push yourself, your knowledge and your experiences further, to have a successful and fulfilling career.
• Perseverance and pride in your work will take you a very long way.
• Do everything you can to make your dreams become a reality, despite what people tell you.
If you are interested in knowing more about the Proven Group, contact Janet Marshall at janet.marshall@colliers.com or Leanne Coste at leanne@betteryourbiz.co.nz. We would love to welcome more women and encourage you to be part of the Proven Group network!
Keri Little, Gaelene Adams Love, Kate Carlisle, Gina Cook, Janet Marshall, Leanne Coste, Yvonne McCarty, Catherine Byrne Sessa, Suzy Elks, Kirstien Taylor and Heidi Heyman. Absent: Jackie Parker, Christine Sheehy, Kay Hu, Kristina Quintal, Nicky Lukar and Caroline Li. Photo credit: Keri Little Photography
FREE PARKING & lo ts o f it!
Did you know we have over 1150 free vehicle parks in Milford?
With Christmas Shopping upon us, we thought it would be good to give you an update on all the FREE parking spaces in MILFORD. – your Premium Shopping Centre (See map below).
To help you with hassle-free parking in Milford we also have some tips:
• Try to avoid the Peak Parking times – 11am to 2pm.
• If you are shopping at the major stores, such as New World, Woolworths & Chemist Warehouse – shop early or after 6pm, as they are open longer hours.
• There are plenty of parks available for the Disabled and Parents with babies and toddlers.
• Main Street P30 – please be aware that AT are now policing this parking with their Camera Cars so keep an eye on your time and stick to 30 mins
For more information, check out our website – milfordshops.co.nz
From everyone in the Milford Business District we hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Enjoy time with your family and friends this Festive Season.
Make sure you do ALL your Festive Shopping and Dining in Milford!
Milford Centre mall Extended shopping hours 9:00am - 7:30pm Thursday 19, Friday 20 and Monday 23 December.
Cruise the Mediterranean with Viking
Embark on a journey through the Mediterranean with Viking Cruises, where ancient history and natural beauty come together in stunning harmony. This cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, taking you to the heart of culturally rich cities, charming coastal towns, and picturesque islands along the way.
From the stunning shores of Italy and the iconic landscapes of Greece to the vibrant colours of Spain and the timeless allure of Turkey, every destination brings a new story and a fresh adventure. With Viking’s elegantly designed ships, exceptional service, and enriching onboard experiences, you’ll delve deeper into Mediterranean history, savour regional cuisine, and enjoy seamless access to fascinating ports. Set sail on a voyage that combines luxury with authenticity, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Shore Travel’s Cruise Specialist, Renee Lomas, experienced Viking Saturn with her mum for a seven night voyage from Athens to Chioggia (Venice) in October. “I always knew I would enjoy Viking, but it surpassed even my incredibly high expectations” says Renee. From the understated, quiet luxury of the Scandinavian design to the quality and range of shore excursions, the experience was wonderful – “it even converted my mum to cruising!” Excursion highlights included an interesting stroll around the beautiful Mediterranean cities with a knowledgeable and well-spoken guide, mountain biking in the hills of Corfu or speeding out to Hvar in a luxury RIB boat!
Renee’s top cruising tip: Book your shore excursions and specialty dining as soon as they open online (via your cruise personaliser) to be able to choose from the full range of options. The popular excursions fill very quickly.
Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
Mediterranean 2025 Viking Cruises
Destination focused and culturally enriching.
Discover what makes Viking a world leading cruise line.
Iconic Western Mediterranean, Barcelona to Rome, 8 days from AU$5,495* per person
Journey to Antiquities, Rome to Athens, 8 days from AU$5,495* per person
Ancient Mediterranean Treasures, Istanbul to Athens, 8 days from AU$4,4458* per person
Preparing your home for sale and relocating can be overwhelming. But it’s okay because Brynyce Owen and her son Tom have been helping people across all stages of the home sale and relocation journey since 2006. Moving Made Easy is based on the North Shore and mainly services the greater Auckland region from Warkworth to the Eastern Bays, as well as moving clients to the rest of New Zealand and overseas. We caught up with Brynyce to find out how they do it.
What inspired you to start Moving Made Easy?
My Christian mother bought me up to serve the community by helping older ladies to get organised. This voluntary work continued alongside my career in education and research and became an increasingly large part of my life.
What kind of services do you offer?
We provide a broad range of services including preparing your home ready for sale, downsizing, reorganising projects, and full end-to-end relocation services to name a few. We also support those who have lost a loved one, helping them sort everything in a caring and respectful manner. The key thing is that our services are uniquely tailored to clients’ specific requirements, which makes our approach unparalleled in New Zealand. A few examples of other services include coordinating remedial works to a property, facilitating the donation of treasures to museums, or moving delicate collections and antiques.
We provide a broad range of services including preparing your home ready for sale, downsizing, reorganising projects, and full end-toend relocation services…
Can you help people move overseas too?
Yes. Whilst we work mainly in the greater Auckland region, we have moved clients all over New Zealand as well as overseas on many occasions. We’ve also had clients who are out of the country and needed help with their New Zealand homes.
How do you manage moving valuables like artwork?
We’re very well known for our specialist expertise in dealing with antiques, artworks, and collections. Understanding the items we’re dealing with is critical to being able to handle them appropriately.
What are Moving Made Easy’s key business values?
Ethical practises, supporting others, and charitable voluntary work have been a massive part of my life, and these underpin
Moving Made Easy. They sit comfortably with our key values of honesty, empathy, discretion, ecoconsciousness, and being a family business. We pride ourselves on having repeat clients, their families and friends.
Does your business have any sustainability practices in place? Yes, we do. We're very proud to be an eco-conscious business and work hard to reduce our environmental impact.
What are your top tips for people preparing to move properties?
Calling me sooner rather than later is a top tip! We can then work to tailor a service that will meet your unique needs. If starting to downsize, try tackling the linen cupboard first. Also, make sure you interview at least two real estate agents, builders etc.
What do you love most about helping people through Moving Made Easy?
Since 2006, we've been privileged to be alongside our treasured clients, providing a unique individualised service to help them on their journey.
Ready to chat to Brynyce about how they can help?
Then visit movingmadeeasy.co.nz or call her on 021 0854 5339 now!
Christmas Day, 7.30am and 10.30am - Christmas Day Service
St Vincent de Paul Church
Cnr Fenwick Ave and Shakespeare Rd, Milford.
Christmas Eve, 6pm – preceded by carols at 5.30pm
Christmas Day, 9am - Christmas Day Service
St George’s Presbyterian Church
2 The Terrace, Takapuna (opposite Shore City mall). 09 489 5689, office.stgeorges@xtra.co.nz, stgeorgestakapuna.com
Christmas Eve, 11.30pm - Carol Service
Christmas Day, 9.30am - Family Carol Service
All welcome! We are an inclusive Church
St Francis de Sales and All Souls Catholic Parish
2a Albert Road Devonport. 09 445 0078, office@devonportcatholic.org.nz
Christmas Eve, 5.30pm - Vigil Mass
Christmas Eve, 9pm - Evening Mass (formerly Midnight Mass)
Carols start 30mins prior to each of these services
Christmas Day, 9.30am - Christmas Day Mass
Devonport Methodist
Cnr Lake and Owens Roads. 09 445 6801, admin@devonportmethodist.org.nz
Christmas Eve, 4-5pm - A Kids’ Christmas Perfect for preschool and primary kids and their families in the garden behind the church (inside if wet).
Come on an adventure to get ready for Christmas. Join us for a sausage sizzle at the end.
Christmas Eve, 8pm - Carols by Candlelight Christmas Day, 8am - Christmas Breakfast; 9.15am - Celebration Service
Join us for a special Christmas breakfast. To book a seat, email admin@devonportmethodist.org.nz
Connect Church
90a Victoria Road, Devonport Sun 22 Dec, 10am - Christmas Celebration Service
Join us as we gather around the family lunch table for our Christmas celebration
Belmont Baptist
168 Lake Road, Belmont Sun 15 Dec, 5.30pm - Carols on Westwell
Come and join us for a neighbourhood carol service on the lawn. Bring a picnic blanket or camping chair!
Christmas Day, 9.30am
Fifty years' service for well-loved nurse at Milford’s Lady Allum
Alayne Pollard is a nurse at Oceania’s Lady Allum Aged Care and Retirement Village in Milford. She recently celebrated an amazing 50 years of service at the village.
Alayne started as a healthcare assistant in 1974 after immigrating to New Zealand from the United Kingdom with her husband and three young children. “I had worked in a general hospital as a night auxiliary nurse in the UK and saw an advert in the 'North Shore Advertiser' for night staff at Lady Allum Village,” she says. “I applied and got the job. I knew very little about Milford, rest homes or Lady Allum Village but thought it would do while I looked around for something else. Little did I know I would love the job and working at Lady Allum Village so much I would still be here 50 years later!”
Alayne actually cared for Lady Annie Allum, for whom the village was named when she resided in the rest home from 1972 to 1982. Alayne has fond memories about how things used to run when she first started with Oceania. “In the early years, my night duties were written down on the back of a brown paper bag, which I carried around for a few years. We had a very competent registered nurse who made sure everything was done correctly and well. We have always had first-class facilities for residents but it is a lot bigger now.”
Alayne actually cared for Lady Annie Allum, for whom the village was named when she resided in the rest home from 1972 to 1982.
Alayne shares that one of the reasons she has stayed with Oceania over the years is the incredible training opportunities available to staff. “We get in-depth training on specialist subjects like Alzheimer's disease and dementia. This makes us qualified to care for these residents by knowing about the disease and what to expect, and it also makes the job a lot more interesting and satisfying,” she says.
“Lady Allum has always been a lovely place to work, the whole staff are very welcoming and friendly. The place itself is in a beautiful position close to Milford shops and the beach, with added extras like a coffee shop, physio and lovely gardens. I love my job and the residents. While I am still fit and able, I have no plans to retire just yet.”
In celebration of the milestone, Oceania threw a morning tea at Lady Allum Aged Care and Retirement Village where Alayne was presented with a trophy and flowers to commemorate the achievement. Oceania business and care manager Garth Adam says Alayne is a well-loved member of the team. “Alayne has a kind and respectful demeanour towards both residents and her fellow employees,” he says. “Working only night shifts is not an easy job, but Alayne always manages to extend herself and go above and beyond for her residents. Alayne understands the importance of teamwork and is an integral member of the night shift team.”
Congratulations Alayne – what a wonderful achievement!
Alayne Pollard at Lady Allum in the 1970s
Andrew Buckingham, Kevin and Alayne Pollard and Garth Adam
Relish the best of both worlds
Welcome to Lady Allum. Now’s your chance to experience the best of tranquil retirement living, offering a refined village lifestyle, with award-winning care onsite should you need it in the future.
Close to popular Auckland beaches, Lake Pupuke and Milford Centre, you’re spoilt for choice with an abundance of cafés and local shops just a short stroll away. Or find your own pace in our tastefully designed spaces, kitted out with all the modern touches you’d expect – and a world of amenities to enrich your day-to-day.
Ready for a refined village lifestyle like no other? With one-bedroom apartments starting at $620,000 and two-bedroom starting at $725,000, now’s the perfect time to be looking.
Easy-going living in an easy-access location. For residents
To learn more, call our team on 0800 333 688.
20 Napoleon Avenue, Milford, Auckland oceaniahealthcare.co.nz
Summer Events on the Shore
We’re well and truly into the festive and warm summer season and what better way to enjoy our beautiful area than attending some of the local events on the calendar. We’re looking forward to a long warm summer, so we caught up with a few of the key people involved in organising summer events on the Shore to give us an update on what’s happening on the Shore in coming months.
TAKAPUNA BOATING CLUB: LEANNE COWAN
Leanne loves working at the Takapuna
Boating Club
Leanne Cowan is the Members Coordinator for Takapuna Boating Club(TBC). She has lived in Takapuna for 23 years, having moved with her husband and two daughters from the South Island. She says that she considers herself very lucky to be living near and working on Takapuna Beach. As an active family, Leanne’s team love making good use of the beach and nearby facilities and all that the boating club offers.
Channel Magazine: What are the big events you will be hosting and promoting at the boating club this summer?
Leanne Cowan: This season, we're excited to host several major events, including the Takapuna Beach Cup, the 420 Nationals, and the King of the Waitemata. Additionally, we’ll have a variety of member-exclusive events featuring fun races and social gatherings. We're also offering Learn to Sail and paddling courses, creating fantastic opportunities for participants of all levels to gain skills and confidence on the water.
You have a sensational location and venue, what are the key things that make it so special?
Our club is uniquely positioned with stunning views over the water, offering an amazing backdrop for any occasion. The space is welcoming for both families and individual adventurers, and there’s always a buzz with athletes, sailors, and the local community coming together.
When is your bar and café/food open for members and guests? What is on offer?
The bar is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 4.30pm and Sunday afternoons from 2pm. On Friday evenings, we’re open for meals and at other times, bar snacks are available. Our menus change regularly, but our special, the Steak Bavette is very good. We are currently working on opening the club for weekend brunches.
Why should Shore people consider joining the TBC for summer 2025 and beyond?
We have an active membership base of paddlers and sailors, along with social memberships for those who want to be part of a welcoming club community without necessarily being on the water. Our social calendar is vibrant, with regular events like Speaker’s Corner, bingo, quiz nights, and more. There are also opportunities to volunteer and get involved, whether on the water or behind the scenes, making it easy to connect with others and contribute to our thriving community. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the waterfront, make new friends, and be part of something special.
What events do you have for kids?
For our younger members, we have the ‘Learn to Paddle’ course for kids aged 9-14, which follows Canoe Racing New Zealand's accredited 'Try Learn Explore' programme. It’s a wonderful way for kids to learn skills, make friends, and gain confidence on the water.
What do you love about being part of the boating club?
Being part of the club is rewarding, there’s a genuine sense of camaraderie here. The energy and enthusiasm from members, both young and old, makes it a fantastic place to spend time.
It costs nothing to find out.
takapunaboating.org.nz
Leanne Cowan
DEVONPORT YACHT CLUB
Tony’s summer of yachting and fun in Devonport
Tony Bullard is the Commodore of the Devonport Yacht Club, a long-standing club located in Devonport on the edge of the Waitemata Harbour. Founded in 1905, the club has over 500 members. Tony and his wife Mandy live within 200m of the club, and sail a Davidson 28. Mandy is also active in the club and is currently the Social Officer on the Management Committee. They have both been members for 12 years.
Channel Magazine: What are the big events you will be hosting and promoting at Devo Yacht Club this summer?
Tony Bullard: This summer, the club will be holding several yacht race events with the highlight being the 101st Duder Cup Regatta on 15 February. December events include a Christmas party on Oneroa Beach on Saturday 7 December and our popular Christmas Carols Evening on Friday 13 December. Local band Tainui Tuesdays regularly play at the club on Sundays.
You have an unreal venue right on the Devo waterfront, what are the key things that make it so special?
With panoramic views over the Waitematā Harbour, the club is the ideal location for events including weddings, birthday celebrations and functions. Devonport Yacht Club was the home club of Sir Peter Blake and the upstairs lounge is named in his honour with various memorabilia on display.
When is your bar and café/food open for members and guests? What is on offer? The club is open to members Thursday to
Sunday from 4.30pm. We have a licensed bar managed by Kirsty McPherson. We hold club member dinner evenings every Friday night with local French café, Chateaubriant, catering for these evenings.
Why should Shore people consider joining the Yacht Club for summer 2025 and beyond?
The club is a great place to meet and socialise with fellow club members in a venue that has unsurpassed views in Auckland. We offer haulage and storage facilities for boat owner
social events including quiz nights, pot luck dinners, live music, race prize giving, a Christmas party for the kids and other celebrations recognising our members. 2025 highlights include the DYC 120th Anniversary Dinner and Dance in September. From 1 December to 31 May 2025 our membership fees are half price with no joining fee. So there’s never been a better time to join!
What do you love about being part of Devonport Yacht Club?
Mandy and I love the club for its warm and
Tony Bullard (Commodore), Mandy Bullard (Social Officer), Howard Walsh (Rear Commodore), Glenda Walsh (Management Committee member), Mark Siggelkow (Vice Commodore), Kirsty McPherson (Bar Manager)
DEVONPORT AND BIRKENHEAD MARKETS: KELLY LOWE
Kelly’s putting on markets across the Shore
Kelly Lowe organises the Devonport and Birkenhead markets. Her grandparents have been living in the North Shore area since the 20s. “My Poppa actually lived in Devonport when he first came over. He was also in
Dan’s passionate about getting people swimming
Dan Feisst has been around swimming and swimming events for his entire life, running the Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series at Takapuna Beach every Tuesday evening from October until the end of March. Dan is absolutely passionate about getting people swimming, and ensuring people can swim in a safe environment.
Channel Magazine: What can people expect in terms of the series? Give us an overview
Dan Feisst: You can expect a well-organised, safe and family-friendly event, in the
the Merchant and then the Royal Navy in WWII and that’s why my family is involved in the Birkenhead RSA,” explains Kelly. Her personal history is in the Arts, with a BFA from Elam School of Fine Arts and she also has her own stall called Huka Bead Art.
Channel Magazine: What are the big events that you will be hosting and promoting for the Birkenhead and Devonport markets this summer?
Kelly Lowe: We have two Christmas Markets
beautiful outdoors Auckland has on offer.
The Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series offers a wide range of options for every age, ability, and fitness level, making it easy for everyone to join in. Whether you're interested in swimming, testing your balance with stand-up paddleboarding, or enjoying a run along the beautiful beach, this series has something for everyone. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, connect with the community, and make the most of Auckland's beautiful coastline!
Do you need to be in peak fitness to take part?
Anyone can take part in the Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series. We understand that everyone is at different stages of fitness and we want to promote sport with no barriers to entry. The Beach Series is all about participation, having fun and getting the community active together, in a safe and friendly environment.
Do you have events for kids? If so, what do they look like?
We are truly passionate about getting kids outdoors, healthy and off their screens! That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with Harcourts Cooper & Co, a company celebrated for
at the Birkenhead RSA, the final one for the year is on 22 December. We have recently put on our big market at Devonport on Sunday 1 December alongside the Santa Parade. We had over 90 stalls in the Ferry Building and on Windsor Reserve!
What can people expect in terms of stalls? At Devonport and Birkenhead RSA we have many wonderful local artists coming to the local market, always with something unique and original, perfect for all your Christmas Gift needs!
their commitment to the community and supporting meaningful initiatives. As part of this partnership, Harcourts Cooper & Co is generously covering registration fees for all children under 12, making it easier for families to get involved. They will have the opportunity to join in a 250 metre swim, monitored by trained lifeguards, or take on a 2.5km run along the beach. This is a fantastic chance for kids to enjoy a healthy, exciting adventure while connecting with the environment and each other!
What do you love about being part of the Beach series?
I love the sense of community that surrounds the event. Each week we see families of all ages and abilities come down to Takapuna knowing that everyone can get involved and have an awesome evening outdoors keeping fit. The event is really special to me, as it has been going on for over 20 years, and in one way or another I have always been involved. I used to swim it, I then became an event sponsor and now I run it.
How can people participate if they want to take part this summer?
To take part in the Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series visit our website: beachseries.co.nz/
BEACH SERIES: DAN FEISST
Dan Feisst
What do you love about being part of the Birkenhead and Devonport markets?
I love both of the areas. I grew up in Birkenhead and visited Devonport a lot. I love the community in both areas and I do this for them. For the customers to get unique quality gifts and supporting local businesses and artists!
How can people participate if they want to organise a stall?
For Devonport Market it’s devonportmarket. co.nz and Birkenhead RSA Market at brsamarket@gmail.com.
The Devonport Markets happen on the first Saturday each month and Birkenhead Markets happen regularly;check website and social media pages for details.
MILFORD CRUISING CLUB: CHRISTINE ROBERTSON
Events, community and sailing at Milford Cruising Club
Christine Robertson has been at Milford Cruising Club for almost six years, and is an Aussie girl who moved to the North Shore a decade ago with her Kiwi hubby and their children. Christine and her family love the outdoor lifestyle and being on or near the water, where her daughters all sail and love sea-biscuiting. Christine has a background in managing customer service and back-office teams, coaching and leadership development. Milford Cruising Club is the first boat club she has managed and she loves it!
Channel Magazine: What are the big events you will be hosting and promoting at Milford Cruising Club this summer?
Christine Robertson: We are really excited about hosting the A Class and Tornado Sailing Nationals in February, and the A Class Worlds in November 2025. We will have an Open Day in February for everyone to come and check us out. I really enjoy the large charity events we host as well.
You have a wonderful venue. What are the key things that make it so special? Our Milford community. I have a wonderful
team that look after them, whether it be for an event hire or coming in for a meal, or serving Kapiti Ice Cream and coffees from our kiosk!
Volunteers are integral to our success. All the members that give their time for repairs on boats, maintenance, flood clean up, set up of our kiosk, and events. The list is endless and we are eternally grateful for them.
My awesome husband Andrew Robertson is the Commodore in his fourth year, investing over 20 volunteer hours per week supporting the club, sailing programs, events, and flood repairs (which are still ongoing).
We have two fantastic spaces for hire. The main room overlooking the Milford marina and reserve can seat up to 150 guests, popular for weddings, birthdays, corporate events and memorials. We also support community groups such as the Takapuna Harriers Rat Race each Wednesday night. We hosted the Ocean Swim Beach Series, and regular fundraisers which last month raised almost $11K for Littlemore and Woven Earth. Our Wairau Room can seat up to 30, is ideal for community, corporate events and children’s birthday parties as it opens up onto the Milford reserve. We also host the Live Ocean Winter Dip and are looking at a number of other community events to host. We also work very closely with local council organisations and community groups on issues that impact our local community. A bonus is that we have free parking!
When is your bar and café/food open for members and guests?
The Bar is open Tuesday to Sunday from 4pm. Our Restaurant is open 5.30pm Thursdays and Fridays with free weekly Quiz open to all every Thursday from 7.30pm. Our special Members' Menu changes weekly, an example is Lamb Shanks for only $28.
We have delicious meals that are affordable for the entire family. We recommend the beef or chicken quesadillas with fries and salad for only $17, or our seafood platter for two, for $30 on a Friday. Friday nights are very family-friendly We have colouring-in packs, books and toys for the kids. They can play in the Milford Reserve playground while hardworking parents have a relaxing time on our fabulous deck.
Why should Shore people consider joining the cruising club for summer 2025 and beyond?
I get people asking “how do I get to have a drink on that deck?” The best thing is the location, the people, our fabulous drinks prices and of course the food! We always recommend to new members that we are a place to bring their friends to enjoy it with.
Locals, we are a community, not just a boating club. Come and have a meal and enjoy our wonderful atmosphere. It is a very relaxing place that people love coming back to. You can get into sailing, or crew for our fleet-racing which is heaps of fun, or just enjoy the view. Our membership starts from only $135, you can bring guests and enjoy our members' beverage prices which can be as low as $9 for a glass of wine or beer!
What events do you have for kids?
We run a Junior Learn to Sail Optimist program for children from eight years of age, and a Learn to Race Feva program. We have a Schools Sailing and 420s Teams Racing program. This program is amazing as it gets children from various local schools training together. Teams Racing is highly reliant on working as a team, communicating and strategic thinking. For the big kids we have an Adult Learn to Sail program which includes a beverage at the end of the session!
What do you love about being part of Milford Cruising Club?
The members, the community and the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. Every day is different! I love exceeding people’s expectations, providing a fantastic customer experience and making people feel welcome. We are proud to provide the first job opportunities for local kids, training them on responsibilities that will set them up for future opportunities through our ice cream kiosk. I invite the North Shore locals to visit us-- you will love our club!
milfordcruising.co.nz
Email manager@milfordcruising.co.nz or phone 09 489 6837
Kelly Lowe
Christine Robertson
FOCUS ON BARRYS POINT ROAD
Discover the premium 'Liquid Experience' on Barrys Point Road
Liquid Experience is hands down one of the best boutique independent liquor stores on the North Shore. Conveniently located at the top end of Barrys Point Road and with plenty of parking, the store supplies a wide, varied and impressive array of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, perfect for all your festive season, gifting and summer celebrations ahead. Gift packs and gift boxes of the finest vintage wines, spirits and liquors, cocktails, mocktails and mixers are lined up and ready for you to peruse and choose so you can get all your present purchasing sorted early this year!
Saumil is passionate about sharing his love of the best premium spirits from around the world. He stocks an impressive selection of the best single malt Irish whisky and Scottish, Indian and Japanese whisky, a large variety of rums, and the widest range of gins and matching tonics. If you're into dabbling in delicious summer cocktails, this is the place to go! He also stocks an extensive selection of both New Zealand and international wines, plus special occasion champagnes and bubbles, perfect for the long, hot summer and Christmas celebrations ahead. And we haven't even touched on the array of craft beers, ciders and
non-alcoholic options, too. You really do have to visit Liquid Experience to get an inkling of what's on offer and enjoy Saumil's depth and breadth of knowledge and understanding of his trade. He has a suggestion for all occasions, and his obvious passion for his subject is infectious!
Owner/operator of Liquid Experience since 2011, Saumil is passionate about the entire drink creation process, from fruit or grains to glass, and with his solid business acumen and experience, is proud to be able to offer a unique, bespoke service to his clients. He says, "The best and most rewarding aspect of what I do is getting to know each individual customer well. It's my knowledge of their individual preferences and tastes that enables me to provide such a unique and insightful service for them."
Saumil is on hand to serve, advise and inspire you with all your drink purchases. Keep an eye on his socials to find out about the regular tasting evenings he holds in-store. Cheers!
The North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust looks set for a big year in 2025 as the organisation celebrates its 30th year. The highlight of the year is the 30th AIMES Awards Gala Dinner in May. There is also plenty happening in terms of business breakfasts and charity lunches.
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE NETWORK (BEN) BREAKFAST
MARTIN COOPER – Tuesday 18 February
These BEN Breakfasts are very popular and the first one for 2025 is a beauty, featuring high-profile North Shore identity and real estate agency owner Martin Cooper – the man that penned ‘The North Shore… what a great place to live’.
Martin is a superb speaker, successful businessman and known for his unwavering commitment to people and his mantra of “better never stops”. He was inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame in 2024.
Martin Cooper has four decades of experience. Born and raised in Queenstown, he began his career as a sales representative in Dunedin. In 1991, he established his own firm, Cooper & Co, which quickly gained a significant market share in Dunedin. However, recognising the potential of Auckland’s North Shore, he relocated to Albany, where his 19-office franchise is one of the biggest players in the market from Devonport to Matakana. Martin is deeply involved in his community, supporting many, many organisations and individuals through his company’s philanthropic efforts.
Martin also recently climbed to the summit of Kilimanjaro – no mean feat! The climb was a true test of physical and mental endurance, resilience, and unwavering support, but, like many things in life, it was achieved one step at a time.
EN Breakfast – Tuesday 18 February, from 7am Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz.
OLYMPIC LUNCH – Wednesday 26 March
This is going to be an extraordinary OLYMPIC-sized lunch! The Lexus of North Shore Olympic Lunch will feature seven AIMES Awards alumni who competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, including gold medallists! These seven are Alicia Hoskin, Cameron Gray, Jo Aleh, Molly Meech, Olivia McTaggart, Tara Vaughan and Zoe Hobbs.
The lunch will be hosted by Mike Stanley, CNZM, CEO at AUT Millennium, celebrated games rower and long-time sports administrator. Mike has been a huge supporter of the North Harbour Club for decades.
Organisers are also promising a flag-bearing Olympic-style Opening Ceremony to kick things off in true Olympic spirit!
This lunch will sell out. Let’s celebrate excellence, connection, and inspiration—this is a lunch you simply can’t afford to miss!
Lexus of North Shore Olympic Lunch - Wednesday, 26 March, from 11.45am North Harbour Stadium, Albany. Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz.
30th AIMES Awards Gala Dinner – Saturday 24 May
Due to very strong ticket sales this massive celebration of three decades of AIMES Awards Gala Dinners has been moved to a bigger venue. At the time of going to press there were still tickets available, but this will sell out.
Back in 2015, the 20th Gala Dinner attracted 600 people to the Cordis Hotel in the city. It was a magnificent event – two decades of rewarding excellence were celebrated in style. 10 years on this ‘pearl’ themed event is shaping up to be even bigger!
30th AIMES Awards Gala Dinner – Saturday 24 May, from 6pm Shed 10, The Viaduct, Auckland City. Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz.
Alicia Hoskin Cameron Gray Jo Aleh
Molly Meech
Olivia McTaggart
Tara Vaughan Zoe Hobb
Solo travel, unlimited possibilities: Explore solo with confidence
Thinking of taking a solo trip but not sure where to start? Solo travel is gaining popularity among all age groups, and many find it life-changing. Any slight nerves are quickly overcome when connecting with others and the excitement of just doing it. The experience can be profound during and after a solo trip, with solo travellers saying that they gained more confidence and independence, made new friends with similar interests, gained clarity about themselves and have so much appreciation for the places they have seen.
There has been significant growth in this travel style, leading many cruise lines and suppliers to offer reduced or zero single supplements for those venturing alone. There are so many ways to enjoy the experience without feeling isolated.
Join a small group tour
Joining a pre-arranged tour is an excellent option, striking the perfect balance between independence and support. Choosing a premium guided holiday with an established company ensures your safety and provides opportunities for meaningful connections, so you can enjoy your independence without loneliness. Plus, you gain access to exclusive experiences often unavailable to individual travellers. With 24/7 support and every detail taken care of, solo travel becomes stress-free and enjoyable. Solo traveller holidays attract people from around the world, giving you the chance to connect with like-minded travellers and create lifelong memories. Flexible accommodation options cater to your preferences: you can share a room with a gender-matched traveller and pay the twin-share price, or opt for a single room, sometimes with an additional supplement. Either way, the experience is designed to suit your needs while ensuring comfort and connection. The team at QUAY
can help you find the perfect group tour or itinerary to suit your interests anywhere in the world.
We share just a couple of examples: Insight Vacations - Best of Italy - 10 nights Rome to Rome, 11 September departure. Visit Rome, Florence, Venice and Capri. Max group size 24 guests. From NZD12,590 single room. Trafalgar Tours - Grand European – 20 nights departing London, 16 July London to Amsterdam, Vienna, Rome and Paris – 11 countries, 27 cities. Up to 44 guests. From NZD13,105 single room.
How about an ocean or river cruise
The thought of cruising alone might seem intimidating at first, but the reality is that millions of solo travellers enjoy cruising every year! With more cruise lines now offering single-occupancy cabins and better discounts, replacing the hefty surcharges that once discouraged solo adventurers, cruising has never been more accessible for solo travellers. Cruises are an ideal holiday option for those travelling alone, offering a safe, hassle-free way to explore the world while staying entertained and meeting new people. Solo cruise fares are available on many of the cruise lines with 'singles' parties, reduced single supplements, 'meet a new friend over a glass of champagne' events on board and so much more. Contact our QUAY master cruise experts to discuss the myriad of options and they will find the right cruise for you.
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
QUAY exclusive Hotel Privileges
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
It’s been a big year for De Paul House
The team at De Paul House reports that they’ve had their biggest year ever in terms of rehousing homeless families and senior citizens. Many of these have found homes in the new housing being created in Northcote.
At this time of year, the De Paul House focus turns to their annual Christmas Appeal. Funds raised will support over 600 children, teens, adults and senior citizens.
Lesley Farmer, who has the Community and Volunteer Liaison role at De Paul House, says they are fortunate to have a ‘community of caring’ who are responding from all over the North Shore.
“This support comes from far and wide,” says Lesley, “...from real estate agencies and their agents, such as Prestige Real Estate Milford and Ray White Birkenhead, and from lawyers Armstrong Murray, who have been supporters for many years. Dutton Stormwater do a monthly shop to replenish our foodbank. Retirement villages such as The Poynton in Takapuna, Bert Sutcliffe in Birkenhead and William Sanders in Devonport also provide valued support.
“We regularly host corporate and business teams for volunteer days. Huski, a business based at Smales Farm, came and volunteered recently and I understand they enjoyed the day immensely. We would love to host more Shore businesses as it really is a win-win for giving back and team building.
“It is heartwarming that schools also
support us in a big way. Westminster Christian School has raised money to purchase supermarket vouchers to support families at Christmas. Throughout the year, schools support us with large food drives, including Rosmini College, St Joseph’s School and Carmel College. Students have volunteered this year from Takapuna Normal Intermediate, Rosmini, Carmel, Kristin and Albany Senior High. We really do appreciate their involvement.
“We also get support from clubs, including a local Line Dancing club and the Hillcrest Lions ladies are planting and overseeing our vegetable garden at Onewa Road. So many good hearts and helping hands supporting De Paul House.”
United Nations International Day of the Volunteer – 5 December
De Paul House will be celebrating with its volunteers on Tuesday 3 December, many of whom have volunteered for over 20-30 years. They have one local Shore person who has been giving back in that area for well over three decades. Alice is one of the younger volunteers at De Paul House. She started volunteering at age 11; five years
on, she is still contributing at 16 years of age. They volunteer in many parts of De Paul House, including the early childhood centre. Many generous people respond to the De Paul House Facebook posts when they put calls out for items such as food, furniture, household goods and bedding.
So why does De Paul House have such a high retention rate with their volunteers? “Because we make them feel part of the work of De Paul House,” explains Lesley Farmer. “They know what they do will ultimately make life a little easier for a family or a senior citizen struggling with homelessness or poor housing.”
For more information on ways to support De Paul House, contact Lesley Farmer at De Paul House. Email lesley@depaulhouse.org.nz, phone 09 480 5959, or visit depaulhouse.org.nz
Santa at De Paul House playgroup
Carmel College Food Bank Drive
We would love to host more Shore businesses as it really is a win-win for giving back and team building.
0 DE PAUL HOUSE
C H R I S T M A S A P P E A L 2 0 2 4
Spread the joy this Christmas!
Please donate via our website or online banking.
T R E A T S :
C
Sweets
Chips
Popcorn Biscuits
TOYS:
New toys and clothing for children, ranging between all ages
GIFT
VOUCHERS: The Warehouse and Supermarket Vouchers
Kids at the Early Learning Centre
Transitional community housing
De Paul House's Community Learning Centre
Early Learning Centre at De Paul House
By Steve Deacon
Essential home safety checklist:
Safeguard your home before your summer holiday
Heading off on your summer holiday? Don’t forget to do a few key home plumbing safety checks before you go and leave instructions for anyone staying in your home, such as a housesitter. Small issues can quickly escalate into costly disasters if left unchecked. Here are some essential tips from a plumber’s perspective to keep your home safe while you’re away:
1. Check for leaks: Before you go, check for any signs of leaks. Instruct your house-sitter to keep an eye out for any signs of leaks, especially around sinks, toilets and showers. A small drip might seem harmless but over time, it can cause significant water damage or lead to high water bills.
2. Monitor water pressure: If you know your home has high water pressure, advise your house-sitter to be aware of any unusual sounds like banging pipes or water hammer. High pressure can put extra strain on pipes, taps and appliances, potentially leading to leaks or bursts.
3. Know the main water shut-off valve: Show your house-sitter where the main water shut-off valve is located. In the event of a leak or burst pipe, they should know how to quickly turn off the water to prevent flooding or damage.
4. Toilet and drain blockages: Clogs happen unexpectedly, so instruct your sitter to avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper. For kitchen drains, they should avoid putting grease, coffee grounds or food scraps down the sink.
5. Hot-water system: If your home has a gas or electric hot-water system, explain any unusual noises or signs that the heater may need attention. It’s important they can identify problems before they escalate.
Leaving these plumbing tips with your house-sitter can save you from returning home to a mess after your holiday, ensuring peace of mind while you're away!
Got any plumbing concerns? Give us a call today and we’ll come and check them out.
Seal Plumbing and Gas Services - where quality meets reliability.
021 79 79 12
sealplumbing.co.nz
HOMES
Jeremy & Sarah Lowe, Renovation Consultants
How to get your home summer-ready without breaking the bank
It’s no secret that this year has been tough on so many. If you’re feeling a little down that your dreams of a renovation fell short this year, try some of these quick ideas which will make a big difference, so you can relax and enjoy the summer holidays.
Lighten up with a fresh coat of paint: Choose bright, cheerful colours; a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into any home.
Brighten your outdoor area: If your outdoor furniture is looking a little bleak, spruce it up with some colourful cushions or throw blankets. Adding string lights to your outdoor area can enhance the summer evening ambience.
Maximise natural light: Swap heavy drapes for lighter fabrics or sheer curtains. Not only will this brighten up your space, it’ll also help keep your home cooler during those hot summer days. Remember to raise the curtains to the ceiling to make spaces feel larger!
Bring nature indoors: Bring some potted plants or vibrant flowers indoors to add a touch of nature. Not only will these freshen your air but they will also uplift your spirits with their colourful presence.
Summer scents: Change out winter-scented candles for fresh, summery aromas like citrus or light florals. Consider DIY pot-pourri with dried flowers and herbs to bring a natural fragrance into your home.
Organise and declutter: Take some time to declutter your space. Create a fresh, airy feeling by storing away winter items and reorganising to make room for summer essentials.
Front door facelift: Give your front door a quick makeover with a fresh coat of paint or a bright new welcome mat. A simple update can enhance curb appeal and welcome guests with summer vibes.
Artwork: Change up some of your artwork or add some to your walls. New visuals can completely change the feel of a room.
With these quick, 'refresh' ideas, your home will be ready for summer relaxation in no time. Embrace the warmth and make the most of those sun-filled days! Merry Christmas!
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
Summer safety send-off: Electrical checklist before your holiday
As the summer holiday approaches, ensuring your home's electrical safety before heading off on holiday is a must. A well checked electrical system keeps your home safe while you're soaking up the sun elsewhere and gives you peace of mind to fully enjoy your getaway.
1. Unplug and save: Before you leave, unplug non-essential appliances to safeguard them from power surges and reduce the risk of fire. This simple step not only protects your home but also conserves energy. Keep essentials like the fridge running on low settings to keep food fresh without wasting energy.
2. Spot and fix hazards: Take a walk-through of your home to check for any potential electrical hazards. Look out for damaged cords, loose outlets, or any signs of wear and tear on your electrical appliances. Addressing these issues now can prevent dangerous situations while you're away.
3. Smoke detectors check: Ensure all smoke detectors are working properly. Test each one and replace any weak batteries to maintain continuous protection against fires.
4. Light up with timers: To mimic activity in your home, set timers on indoor lights to turn on in the evening and off at bedtime. This strategy not only enhances security but also keeps your electricity bills in check.
5. Panel accessibility: Make sure your electrical panel is easily accessible and all circuits are clearly labelled. This is crucial for quick power management in emergencies, whether by someone checking on your home or emergency responders. By following these steps, you can secure your home's electrical setup and head off on your summer holiday with confidence. Kick back, relax, and enjoy your break knowing that your home is safe, sound and ready for your return.
If you need a hand ensuring your electrical systems are holidayready, reach out to us at Lake Road Electrical, your friendly local electrician. We’re here to help make your summer safe and stress-free!
Graham, Newhaven Gardens. North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.
Summer gardening
Summer is here and along with it comes the stress of hotter, dryer days that can drastically impact our plants.
If a plant is stressed from lack of water or nutrients, it is much more likely to succumb to pests and diseases. However, there are a few products you can use that will not only help build your plants’ resilience, they are also great for the overall health of your garden.
Seaweed Tonic is a great liquid fertiliser rich in essential nutrients, minerals, and plant growth hormones like auxins and cytokinins. These compounds stimulate root development, improve soil structure, and enhance plant resilience. Regular use can help plants grow stronger, with improved resistance to drought, pests, and stress. Seaweed Tonic is also ideal for promoting faster germination and healthier plants in both flower and vegetable gardens.
While regular use of Seaweed Tonic will help to make your plants more resilient to pests and diseases by making them healthier and more robust, regular use of Neem Granules will act as a natural preventative and systemic pesticide; after a few applications it will work on any pests that chew or suck on the plants.
Neem Granules act as a natural insect repellent and soil conditioner. The active compound azadirachtin disrupts the life cycle of pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Neem Granules also help prevent fungal diseases and improve plant immunity. By promoting healthy soil and offering natural pest control, Neem Granules protect beneficial insects and the broader ecosystem, making them a safe choice for organic gardeners.
Finally, my go-to product for helping plants recover from stress, diseases, and heavy rain is Aquaticus Garden Booster. This is a New Zealand-made product which also contains natural humic/ fulvic acid, trichoderma and omega which improves soil health by enhancing water retention, aeration, and nutrient absorption.
Together, these three products offer a proactive, eco-friendly approach to gardening by strengthening plants, improving soil health, and protecting the ecosystem. Regular use of these products will greatly strengthen your plants. When coupled with mulching, organic fertilising and hand weeding you have an effective, natural solution for creating a thriving organic garden.
eBikes are now seen in great numbers around New Zealand, offering a satisfying blend of exercise, efficiency and a unique feeling that there isn’t anywhere that you and your bike cannot go. Most eBike owners use their bikes for a mix of trail and urban use, getting the most out of our country’s wonderful network of cycling tracks that constitute the ultimate weekend adventure for many.
But owning an eBike isn’t a 'set and forget 'deal: eBikes need looking after so that they can look after you. James Speedy from Electrify.nz chats with Channel Mag's Liz Cannon to explain how eBike owners are maintaining their bikes, and even enhancing their rides for use off the ever-beaten track.
eBikes can be a sizable investment, often due to the powerful motor and battery components required to make them capable of climbing steep hills and reaching high speeds. The added power the eBike’s motor exerts can mean that parts such as drive-trains and brake systems wear at faster rates and damage can occur more easily. So it’s important to keep your eBike safe and reliable while out in the field by making sure your bike is well cared for so that your bike will continue to deliver reliable performance. Maintaining your eBike with routine maintenance will also prolong the parts on the bike, making it run smoother, and saving money in the long run.
Keeping up with the eBike’s maintenance is mostly easy and can be enjoyable. Many owners take an interest in learning how to take care of their bikes themselves. Electrify.nz North Shore store is set up to host eBike maintenance workshops over the summer season, introducing evening sessions of small groups to offer eBike riders hands-on advice on how to maintain their eBikes, and even carry out field repairs for those who venture further away from help. This can be done by performing the simplest of maintenance techniques, such as cleaning and lubricating your chain, inflating your tyres and
$50
running through some straightforward checks to give your bike a selfappraised WoF before your ride. Part of taking care of your bike also involves perfecting riding techniques, becoming more proficient with using gears and getting the most out of eBike drive systems.
Typically, eBike motors, batteries and other electrical components are maintenance-free. Most eBikes have lithium-ion batteries, which require regular charging to maintain capacity at around 50%. While there are mixed opinions on battery care, most eBike owners can expect to see their battery offer them a five- to 10-year lifetime, assuming occasional usage and proper care and maintenance.
In more recent times, mechanical cycle components have caught up with the new demands of eBikes, with some modern chains, gear systems and tyres now bearing eBike certifications to handle the additional forces that eBikes provide. Shimano’s innovative LinkGlide eBike gear system is up to four times more durable, for instance, allowing a longer life in line with the bike itself.
Contact James at Electrify.nz now for details of a special offer to all Channel Mag readers: $50* off your first eBike service. *$50 discount for first-time customers from service packages only. Excludes parts and additional work.
Electrify.nz
Northridge Plaza, 100 Don Mckinnon Drive, Albany 09 414 4877
Offer available at Electrify.NZ North Shore only. T&Cs apply. Promotion is valid for December and January only, subject to availability.
SPF: Your skin’s ultimate shield
Living in New Zealand, we are no strangers to the intense UV rays that come with our beautiful sunny days. Yet, many of us underestimate the importance of sunscreen in our daily routines. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) isn’t just a summer staple; it’s a year-round necessity for maintaining healthy, youthful and damage-free skin.
Why is SPF important?
The sun’s UV rays are a major contributor to skin ageing, pigmentation and skin cancers. There are two types of UV rays to be aware of:
• UVA: These penetrate deeply into the skin, causing premature ageing, fine lines and pigmentation.
• UVB: These are the main cause of sunburn and can directly damage DNA, leading to skin cancer.
SPF acts as a shield, protecting your skin from these harmful rays. Applying sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy, is one of the most effective ways to prevent damage and maintain skin health.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) isn’t just a summer staple; it’s a year-round necessity for maintaining healthy, youthful and damage-free skin.
Avoiding common SPF mistakes
While many people are diligent with their sunscreen, common mistakes can reduce its effectiveness:
1. Not applying enough: For proper coverage, you need at least a teaspoon for your face and neck and a shot glass worth for your body.
2. Skipping reapplication: SPF needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors, sweating or swimming.
3. Neglecting certain areas: Don’t forget spots like your ears, lips and the back of your neck.
4. Using expired products: Sunscreens lose their effectiveness over time. Always check the expiration date.
What type of SPF should you use?
Choosing the right sunscreen depends on your lifestyle and skin type. At Le Visage Skin Clinic, we stock premium SPF options that cater to various needs:
• Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF 50+: This lightweight formula combines hydration with high sun protection, perfect for daily use under make-up. It’s available in mattifying, hydrating, and sheer tint options to suit all preferences.
• Coola SPF range: Known for their organic and reeffriendly formulas, Coola products are a favourite for those seeking a natural yet effective solution. The weightless finish and subtle scents make daily application a pleasure.
• Skin Better Science Tone Smart Compact SPF 50: This hightech option offers broad-spectrum protection in a compact, tinted format, making it perfect for touch-ups on the go. Its tone-adaptive technology provides a flawless finish while keeping your skin protected.
Broad-spectrum and TGA approval: A must-have
All our recommended SPFs offer broad-spectrum protection, which means they shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. They are also TGA-approved, ensuring they meet the highest safety and efficacy standards.
SPF is the single most important step in your skincare routine. It’s an investment in your skin’s future, helping to prevent damage, ageing and serious health issues. If you’re unsure which sunscreen is right for you, our team at Le Visage Skin Clinic is here to help. We can guide you toward the perfect SPF to suit your skin and lifestyle.
Make SPF your daily habit - it’s the simplest way to keep your skin radiant, healthy and protected for years to come.
Coola Classic Body Lotion Sunscreen SPF50 Guava Mango
Terry and Sarah Taylor
By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager
Another great year for Takapuna North Community Trust and Pupuke Birdsong Project
Thank you for sharing your evening with us to celebrate our achievements of the last year and consider our future focus. Your involvement was greatly appreciated to further enhance our collective knowledge and dedication to our mahi.
A special thanks to inspiring local historian, Debbie Dunsford, who also enlightened us with the wonderful history of Milford.
Summer Holidays and Gift-giving
As we approach the festive summer season, we would like to take the opportunity to remind you about waste reduction and thoughtful gift-giving. If you’re heading to the beach, consider taking reusable picnic ware for your food (and remember to take your rubbish home). If you’re looking for a waste-free gift for a nature lover, a New Zealand Geographic digital subscription is an excellent option that will never get lost in the post! For more ideas, scan the QR code:
Shore Junction a finalist in 2degrees Auckland Business Awards
Shore Junction was recently honoured as a finalist in the prestigious 2degrees Auckland Business Awards' Community Contribution category. We're incredibly grateful to the judges for recognising our commitment to empowering young people and for the opportunity to showcase our inspiring space during their visit. While we didn't claim the victory, we're thrilled to see our neighbours at the Takapuna Beach Business Association win this well-deserved award.
At the heart of Shore Junction lies a dedicated team of youth workers who create a safe and welcoming environment for young people. We're proud to have over 4,500 members and witness over 14,000 visits annually. These young individuals are the driving force behind our mission. They deserve a place where they can freely express themselves, pursue their passions, and connect with likeminded peers.
To ensure that Shore Junction truly reflects the needs and desires of the young people we serve, we involved them in the co-design process. From selecting colours and materials to choosing the architect, their input was invaluable. This collaborative approach empowered them and fostered a sense of ownership in the space.
We couldn't achieve our mission without the unwavering support of our local community. We extend our sincere gratitude to our generous donors and the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board for their invaluable contributions in creating and sustaining Shore Junction. Their belief in our vision has enabled us to provide essential services and programmes that enrich the lives of countless young people.
As one of our newest young members expressed last week, "This is my dream come to life!" We're committed to continuing to create opportunities for young people to thrive, and we're excited to see what the future holds for Shore Junction.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
From DTLB Chair, Toni van Tonder
A good year for the Local Board
Kia ora everyone,
The months have raced by, and the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board is looking forward to our final business meeting of the year, 10 December . It’s been a good year for the local board, no storm events, pandemics or elections to throw us off our stride and we’re proud of the projects we’ve advanced and the collaboration in the room.
Early next year we’re going out for consultation (again) on the Annual Plan which asks you to weigh in on the direction of both your Local Board and Council. As it’s year two in the ten-year LongTerm Plan that has just been adopted, it’s very much a ‘business as usual’ proposal. That’s not to say there won’t be local impacts.
Year Two of the Long-Term Plan contemplates a 5.8% rates increase, a debt to revenue limit of 250% (well below target of 270%), an additional $47million to be found in organisational savings, alongside a $4billion capital budget.
The consultation will ask if you support the above, as well as whether you support Council trying to get Government across the line in progressing visitor bed night levy legislation. Without that, there is a $7million funding gap for our events and economic development activities. This puts at risk some of our key regional events that make our city vibrant and exciting.
It’s been a good year for the local board, no storm events, pandemics or elections to throw us off our stride and we’re proud of the projects we’ve advanced and the collaboration in the room.
In the Mayor’s proposal there’s a massive piece of work proposed that will reform most of the Council Controlled Organisations(CCO). This would bring many functions delivered by Auckland Transport, Eke Panuku and Auckland Unlimited in-house to provide for more political oversight and reduce duplication. As there will be no material changes to their budgets or work programme delivery, he’s proposed that this takes place without public consultation. There are definitely pros and cons to bringing the CCOs in-house, so it will be interesting to see what the governing body agrees to. The Mayor is only one man and one vote around the table, after all.
Locally though, it really is business as usual. I may sound like a broken record but our Local Board were not recipients of additional
budget, so we’re left with a limited capacity to do things in our patch. It’s a serious risk to our service delivery, given that the cost of contracts has increased along with wage increases and other operational costs. Without additional budget to meet those costs, we’re going to have to keep reducing what we do to cut our cloth. This is not acceptable at all when it may mean a reduction in our library and leisure services, less funding to support tree planting and restoration, reduced operational grants for our arts partners and more. We continue to advocate strongly to the governing body so that they are aware of the unintended consequences of the Local Board funding model shift.
With no additional capital budgets either, we’ll never be able to realise some local aspirations and opportunities. We hear all the time from our sports clubs how they want more investment in their grounds and facilities to meet demand. It’s frustrating that we can’t help them. We’re also burdened by a large portfolio of heritage assets that must be restored and maintained. A good example is the Clay Store at 27 Lake Road, a listed property, with the downstairs occupied by a Men’s Shed. We approved a $1.24million budget for its renewal which we expected would restore the upstairs area, include a lift for accessibility and provide a community space cherished by all. It’s in a current state of dilapidation with the upstairs closed off for health and safety reasons. When the final quotes came in we were staring down the barrel of a $3.65million renewal. The Local Board has no choice but to keep the property closed upstairs and do the bare minimum. Of course we’ll hear the cry that Council doesn’t look after or invest in its assets, and I can’t help but agree. The Local Board will be pointed at for being the local decision maker, but we’re not the ones who make the decision on local budgets, we can only do so much with the little we get. So if you do jump online in the new year to have your say on the budgets, perhaps you can weigh in on this topic and help our Local Board out.
Well, that’s enough doom and gloom for one day. I want to end this column with some gratitude and thanks, because it’s important to remember we live in paradise. We’re a connected and warmhearted community where volunteerism and care are our currency. I do love it when I get little emails from readers telling me they’re following these articles, so please do let me know if you find the content valuable. The Local Board is here to represent you and we are grateful for the opportunity to do so. Thanks from me to the good folk at Channel Magazine who produce a wonderfully upbeat publication that celebrates our place. Thanks to all my Council staff and staff from our CCO family who devotedly support the Local Board to act on your behalf. Thanks to my Local Board members who enjoy good robust conversation around the table with me, but do so with humour and respect, and thanks to all of you living and loving life in our Local Board area. Have a fabulous Christmas with the people you love most.
Until next year…
Toni van Tonder, Chair, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board toni.vantonder@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Lynda Betts Devonport Residential and Waterfront Sales and Marketing 021 278 3024 lynda.betts@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/lynda-betts
Christmas Wreaths Shop our collection online or design your own with our DIY wreath bar
Beautiful Flowers, Plants and Giftwares
63 Victoria Rd, Devonport 09 445 8350 devonportflowers.co.nz
Your glass specialists for all glazing jobs inside and out
Devonport Glass offers the highest quality supply and installation of a wide range of professional glass services at affordable prices for your home and your vehicle
When it comes to relying on a local business for all your glass requirements, the team at Devonport Glass is one of the very best. The family-owned and operated business offers the highest quality supply and installation of a wide range of professional glass services at affordable prices across the North Shore. They will take care of all your glass requirements; new glass as well as renovations and repairs, including pet doors and insurance work.
The Devonport Glass crew is a team of fully qualified and highly experienced glaziers who are passionate about providing a full range of glass window repair, replacement and installation solutions at very reasonable prices. You can rely on their prompt and friendly approach. They love what they do and they love happy customers who will recommend them to others. For them, that’s proof of a job well done!
Summer is the perfect time to get jobs done inside and outside the house. Devonport Glass is now offering new services, including windscreens, balustrades and showers. Give your home a boost during the warmer months with outside jobs, like adding balustrades to maximise your outside spaces for summer, and inside glass jobs, like upgrading your bathroom to make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. And it's not just your home! Devonport Glass now offers full windscreen services from repairs to full replacement.
Full glazing services include windscreens, balustrades, showers, splashbacks, mirrors, showers, obscure glass, re-putties, broken glass repairs, double glazing, leadlight repairs, low E thermal glass, safety glass and hush glass.
The team of fully qualified and highly experienced glaziers provides a full range of glass window repair, replacement and installation solutions at affordable prices. Family-owned and operated, you can rely on their prompt and friendly approach. For a free, no-obligation quote for your glass, email info@devonportglass.co.nz, call 021 148 1804 or visit devonportglass.co.nz
By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH
Holiday glow
Why smiling is the season’s best accessory
The holiday season is in full swing, bringing festive gatherings, laughter, and plenty of photos! Amid the sparkle of decorations, one thing shines brightest: a genuine, radiant smile. Your smile is the best accessory for every occasion.
Brighten your smile with...
Laser whitening: Our in-clinic treatment offers a quick, effective way to instantly boost your smile, making teeth noticeably whiter in just one session. Please note: a pre-clean and assessment is required, as not everyone is suitable for this treatment. It’s perfect for those wanting to make a statement at seasonal gatherings.
At-home care: Prefer flexibility? Our whitening trays and strips allow you to maintain a fresh, bright smile on your schedule. Fresh breath solutions: Ensure you feel polished and confident with our advanced techniques for cleaning and stain removal, ideal for enjoying holiday treats.
Connect with joy: A radiant smile can transform the way you connect with others this season. Every grin, laugh and shared moment adds warmth and joy to your celebrations.
Investing in your smile is a gift to yourself - a glow that enhances every holiday moment and carries into the new year. Happy holidays from Mint Dental Hygiene - where a beautiful, healthy smile is always in season! Visit us online at mintdentalhygiene.co.nz for all your whitening and fresh-breath needs, available through our store.
Nova Edgcombe BSc, RDH Dental Hygienist
Dental Hygiene
424 Lake Road, Takapuna 021 2306517
info@mintdentalhygiene.co.nz
mintdentalhygiene.co.nz
TERESA
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Cheers Ears!
The upcoming holiday parties, gatherings and social events are a fun time for celebrating and reconnecting. However, for people with hearing loss, noisy group gatherings can be stressful and tiring. Here are our top tips to help you hear for the holidays.
1. Be sure your hearing aids are working well, and your ears are clear of wax. Book in for a check before the silly season starts.
2. Use a partner mic with your hearing aids. You may be able to turn this function on via your iPhone.
3. Let others know if you’re not hearing well – cup your hand behind your ear (the universal signal for trouble hearing). You’re probably not the only one having trouble.
4. Sit on the couch for conversation – soft squishy things help sound quality. Get out of the kitchen if you can – it’s noisy in there with utensils and the extractor fan. Try a quiet corner or go outside.
5. Claim a good spot at the table if you can. Sit in the middle of the table, but away from the kitchen, if possible.
6. Talking to family from overseas? Turn on virtual captions for online video calls. You may need to ask the call ‘host’ or check Settings.
Call us to book in for a hearing test, hearing aid adjustment or wax removal on 09 475 9849. Switching from another practice? No problem – we can read settings and transfer info if needed. Cheers ears!!
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
Exercise outdoors
Over the past 20 years life has developed in a way that brings us indoors most of the time. Many of us spend the majority of our time inside.
Modern lifestyles are designed for comfort and safety – if your home has internal access garaging, your office has parking inside the building, and your supermarket is inside the mall, then it’s easy to avoid any exposure to the elements.
On the North Shore, we’re very fortunate to have access to many beautiful outdoor areas. The World Health Organization has identified access to green urban spaces as a significant tool to reduce the risk of type two diabetes and improve cardiovascular and mental health. The light, air and atmosphere outdoors benefit your physical, cognitive and emotional wellness. Certain natural environments are more powerful than others due to negative ions. Negative ions are molecules floating in the air that have been charged with electricity. They exist wherever water collides, so the beach is a great place to be.
Exposure to the outdoors is necessary to get your dose of the “sunshine vitamin”. Vitamin D is important for blood, bones and your immune system. Your body needs sunlight to make vitamin D but it doesn’t need much. When the sun is shining intensely, it’s recommended to get outside either early morning or late afternoon, keeping an eye on the UV index. When the weather’s a little cooler you can go at any time. It’s ideal if you’re moving outside, rather than just sitting, so that you’re warm enough to expose more of your skin to the sun. For vitamin D synthesis, exposure must be to direct sunlight as UVB does not pass through glass.
With all the benefits of exercising outdoors it’s no surprise that many people prefer to do their cardiovascular exercise outside, at least for some of the year. Walking, running, biking, sports and water activities are great for body and soul. It’s important to support these activities with weight training to strengthen muscles and ligaments. Every cardio activity has its own unique repetitive movement pattern, and if you put your body through a fixed pattern often enough with enough impact, you can create imbalances. This can cause vulnerability to injury, particularly as you age.
Everyone is different, but for most people an effective exercise regime will involve the outdoors, and will have a balance of cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training.
If you’re looking for a new outdoor exercise option this summer, then come join our outdoor classes on Sunday mornings outside the Takapuna Beach Café. Check out our timetable for details of this week’s class: lesmills.co.nz/timetable?club=06#Classes
We’re so fortunate to live on the Shore with its wonderful beaches and leisure activities. People pay good money to holiday in a place like this, and we live here. Les Mills Takapuna wishes you and your family a safe, happy and healthy summer. We look forward to seeing you by the water.
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
Who can benefit from Pilates?
The short answer is everyone! In the media, you may see images of beautiful young people, lithe dancers and brawny athletes doing Pilates in exotic locations, but the reality is that Pilates offers advantages to everyone regardless of age or current fitness (or glamour) level.
Newbies. If you’ve never worked out (or if it’s been too long since you last exercised), Pilates is the perfect introduction to fitness because it is low impact and uses bodyweight only. This means you can ease into shape without risking injury with heavy weights. Also, the functional nature of Pilates workouts will provide an immediate enhancement to your well-being. Your balance will improve, and you’ll experience an increase in energy and a calmer demeanour. You’ll look better, too!
Women. Many women are drawn to Pilates because it creates long, lean muscles, improves flexibility and aids weight loss. But the benefits go further because research suggests that Pilates can help reduce menstrual pain. Pilates can also help pregnant and postpartum women by safely strengthening their core and conditioning their pelvic floor.
Men. Even men who already work out or do sports can benefit from Pilates classes because of the compound nature of the exercises and the focus on the abdominal muscles. There is no such thing as too much core strength. In fact, competitive weightlifters have recently discovered that extra emphasis on core stability can increase their overall lifting ability, plus strong abs help you avoid injuries.
Teens. If you know a teenager, you can give them the gift of a lifetime by introducing them to Pilates. Starting Pilates as a teen will help them develop a lifelong passion for exercise and holistic wellbeing. Suna has been teaching Pilates at Kristin school for more than a decade.
Who can’t do Pilates? In reality, almost everyone can do Pilates. This is true even if you have suffered an injury or have age-related physical limitations. Many physios refer their patients to Suna for rehab work, and we have developed modifications to all our exercises to allow people with restrictions or injuries to get a complete workout.
Does it sound too good to be true? Come see for yourself at Suna Pilates. Let us help you create a happier, healthier body! Trial packs start at $60.
In our December issue two years ago, we featured the impressive brand spanking new motor vehicle facility on Auckland’s North Shore, that had just opened on Fred Thomas Drive, close to Takapuna and the motorway. The dealership was the new home of brands; Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot and GWM. The location, being close to the motorway with easy access to the bridge and Auckland city – as well as Takapuna, Milford, and the Devonport Peninsula – is about perfect for a dealership selling high-quality motor vehicles. The 9,924 square metre site has abundant parking. The Dealership was the first of its kind in New Zealand, built to a new worldwide style of Mercedes-Benz architecture – known as MAR2020. It was the first in New Zealand. A feature is an 18-hoist service department that enables up to 60 vehicles to be serviced daily. There are also 18 EV chargers. Two years on we decided it was time to catch up with Craig Innes, MD of the motor vehicle group and Milford resident. The man who drove the investment. We talked about the new facility and exciting things happening with the brands they represent on the site. Aidan Bennett caught up with Craig in late November.
A chat with CRAIG INNES
Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot and GWM North Shore
CHANNEL MAG: Craig, two years on you must be thrilled with the new facility that is home to Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot and GWM?
CRAIG INNES: Thank you, Aidan! The new site has been a game-changer for our customers, and we’ve received an abundance of positive feedback about it. It’s been wonderful to see how much people appreciate the new facility.
What are the key things that you love about the site?
The contemporary design, both inside and out, creates an inspiring and dynamic atmosphere for our guests and team members. This innovative layout also enables us to offer unique showroom experiences for each of our four brands, all within a single state-ofthe-art facility.
It’s a great venue for events as well. It’s no secret that you are strong supporters of the community and worthy charities, what events have you hosted during 2024?
In 2023 and 2024, we proudly hosted Champagne on the Shore, a charity event in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). Both evenings were truly spectacular, bringing people together for an incredible cause. We’re excited to announce that the third
Craig Innes
annual Champagne on the Shore will take place on Friday 9 May 2025, and we’d love to see as many Channel Magazine readers there as possible. Join us for another unforgettable night in support of this amazing charity!
Mercedes-Benz continues to innovate and offer some of the world’s leading vehicles, what excites you about the current range and what should we look for in 2025 for the German motor vehicle giant? Our current vehicle range showcases impressive innovations in technology, reflecting the cutting-edge approach Mercedes-Benz has always been known for. Looking ahead, the brand is set to place an even greater emphasis on luxury, ensuring an elevated experience for all our customers.
GWM has been an outstanding addition to our business, bringing an impressive line-up of vehicles…
GWM has emerged as a very popular vehicle with Kiwis in recent years, what do you believe is driving the success of that brand and exciting your customers?
GWM has been an outstanding addition to our business, bringing an impressive line-up of vehicles across their brands: Tank, Haval, Ora, and Cannon Ute. With diverse powertrain options and a 7-Year Warranty, all at competitive prices, there’s something for everyone. My personal favourite, the Tank 300, has developed a cult following in New Zealand, with many owners customising them in unique and exciting ways. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, I highly recommend taking one from the GWM North Shore range for a test drive – you won’t be disappointed!
Peugeot continues to make fine motor vehicles. I was reading somewhere that the French business started in 1810 so there is a strong heritage. What excites you about the Peugeot offering in 2024/25?
Yes, Peugeot is truly a brand with a rich history. Growing up, I have fond memories of helping my mother spec her new Peugeots with various options – a clear early sign of the career path I was destined to follow! This month, we launched the new 3008, which has always been the stand out model in our range. The latest version is incredibly futuristic in design and looks fantastic, offering an exciting glimpse into the future direction of Peugeot.
I understand you are a keen motor racing driver. What events have you competed in during 2024 and what do you have planned in summer 2025?
Yes, I’m passionate about motor racing, but I’ve scaled back my activities in recent years due to having a young family. In 2024, I’ve been competing in circuit endurance racing events, which has been great fun. Looking ahead to next year, I plan to continue with similar endurance events. However, my focus is on supporting my eight-yearold son, William, who has recently taken up kart racing. Watching his enthusiasm and growth in the sport has been incredibly rewarding!
After a busy and challenging year what does Craig and his family have planned for the summer break?
Social
area?
We’re looking forward to spending the summer break at our home in Taupō. I lived there for about five years, and it’s always a pleasure to return – it holds a special place in my heart. The kids absolutely love it too, with so many activities to keep them entertained. Fingers crossed for some great weather to make the most of our time there! I wish all our customers and Channel Mag readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 2025 is going to be good!
Finding Nemo showcases Junior School talent on stage
Kristin’s Junior School Production for 2024 was the colourful extravaganza, Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS. This 30 minute adaptation of the 2003 animated film featured the entire Junior School student cohort, from Kindergarten to Year 6. Each student worked hard all term to learn choreography, vocals and stagecraft, ready to perform to sold-out houses in late November.
Bringing 500+ students together on stage is not a simple task. Coordinating hundreds of young performers, all in full costume, requires a huge amount of effort, planning and time. However, as a school, we wholeheartedly believe in the importance of these flagship production events for our students and know the vital learning they receive through their experience in preparing for their big debut on stage. Students exposed to and involved with music, drama, dance and theatre develop skills that will enhance their learning,
classroom participation and socialisation.
The arts are proven to promote physical and psychological well-being in young people –improving memory, motor and verbal skills; increasing confidence and self-esteem; enhancing poise and social connections, as well as a general appreciation for the arts, which, in turn, creates well-rounded citizens who are inquisitive, creative and critical thinkers.
The purpose of producing these highquality, large-scale productions goes beyond ‘putting on a show’. Our major productions are an investment into the holistic education of our students. Giving this opportunity to every Junior School student allows them the opportunity to explore their creative side, and, by doing so, enriches them as learners. From vegetarian sharks, to forgetful fish, to chilled sea turtles, Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS brought all the characters you know and love, to life, on the Kristin stage. Audiences were amazed by the incredible scenery, the intricate costumes and the talents of our young performers. Bravo to each and every one of them for their commitment, determination and courage. For many students, stepping onto the stage in front of such a large crowd would have been an overwhelming challenge, but through Finding Nemo they have learned, thanks to Dory, when faced with a tricky situation to “Just Keep Swimming”!
2024 Kristin Prestige Award winners recognised
Kristin’s Senior School Prizegiving was an opportunity to celebrate exceptional student achievement throughout the year.
This Prizegiving acknowledges the top academic students from each of the three Senior School year levels, with students being awarded Excellence certificates for first place in each subject and Merit certificates presented to the place getters, as well as Faculty Trophies. Students who received university scholarships were also acknowledged.
Among these awards are our Prestige Awards, which recognise excellence among Senior School students.
The ultimate Prestige Award, the Foundation Cup for a student who exemplifies the Kristin spirit and values, was presented to our very deserving and outstanding Head Girl Lily Rushworth. Lily
also received the Wright Cup for Head Girl. Each year Kristin presents two Dux awards, one for NCEA and one for International Baccalaureate (IB). Ariel Yu was presented with the Stevens Award for Academic Excellence for NCEA Dux of School, while Emma Gunn was presented with the Claudia Wysocki Memorial Trophy for Academic Excellence for IB Dux of School.
Other Prestige award winners included; Randal Yao – Gifford Shield for exemplifying qualities of leadership and the Amos Cup for Head Boy, Rehaan Vazir – Anna Fuller Trophy for displaying a consistently positive attitude, commitment and determination in the pursuit of excellence, Angus Baker – Sir Denis Blundell Trophy for personal conduct and citizenship, Stella McKay – Appreciation
Cup for attitude, reliability, kindness, courtesy and consideration towards others, Matthew Zheng – Achievement Trophy for participation in and contribution to a prestigious standard in academic, sporting and cultural activities.
Following the Prizegiving, Kristin celebrated another one of our fine traditions, the Graduation Walk. This is a very special occasion where our departing Year 13 students are honoured by doing a lap of the school through a guard of honour made up of students, staff, family and friends. This year the weather didn’t allow for the usual outdoor route, but the walk went ahead inside our indoor sports facility, Tūrama. This experience is always a very wholehearted and emotional farewell as these students move on from Kristin life to begin the next chapter of their lives.
Lily Rushworth – The Foundation Cup
Nota Bella choir visits Cambridge
On Saturday 21 September, our junior choir, Nota Bella, travelled to Cambridge for the day to collaborate in concert with the Hamilton Civic Choir (HCC). Ms Elise Bradley conducts both choirs. It was wonderful to bring singers together to present music from around the world in a concert titled: ‘Slàinte Mhath’.
Nota Bella sang pieces from its repertoire this year and joined with HCC and another high school choir, Vox, from Cambridge, for several songs. After rehearsals in the Cambridge Town Hall, Nota Bella enjoyed exploring Hamilton Gardens before performing to a full-capacity audience and heading back to Auckland.
Play it Strange
We are thrilled to announce that one of our talented music students, Joy Feng, recently performed her original song Be There With You at the sold-out Play It Strange Annual Awards evening at the Town Hall Concert Chamber.
Joy earned this incredible opportunity as a winner of the New Zealand Play It Strange Peace Song competition, which
celebrates young songwriters from all over Aotearoa. As part of her prize, Joy had the privilege of performing her song live, accompanied by orchestral players from the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra’s Aspiring Musicians Programme.
Before the performances, all the winners attended a full day of exciting workshops
on the music and recording industry and how to promote and manage themselves as artists. In addition to Joy’s success, we’re proud to share that Westlake Girls High School was named ‘School of the Year’ for having the highest number of finalists in the Lion Foundation Year 9-13 Songwriting Competition.
Caelin Thompson, Joy Feng, Emma Little, Shaine Bondad, Caini Wang, Kinda Kassibawi
Auckland Secondary School Junior Kī-o-Rahi Champs
The Auckland Kī-o-Rahi Junior Champs recently celebrated the vibrant traditional Māori game at Bert Henham Reserve in Mt Wellington, with more than 25 mixed teams, including Westlake Girls and Boys.
The players competed passionately, and
Westlake’s pool play was intense, especially against Rutherford College and Selwyn College, who were tough competition for the young Westlake team. Westlake Girls and Boys secured three wins, one loss, and one draw to advance through to the Plate Final,
where they emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Mount Albert Grammar in double extra time, winning 10-9. Thank you to Eddie Hudson, Alice Burnett, Joanne Mersh, and Clare Nasey from Westlake Boys High School for their invaluable support.
Duke of Edinburgh Practice Expedition to Tāwharanui Peninsula
The Duke of Edinburgh practice hike at Tāwharanui Peninsula was a fantastic experience. Students set up camp, hiked 6km and 8km through varied terrain, encountered native wildlife, and faced challenges like cooking on a camp stove and navigating with bearings. Highlights included spotting kiwi near the campsite and seeing dotterel chicks resembling “toasted marshmallows”, as described by participant Y10 student Millie Rotherham. The group looks forward to the qualifying journey in December.
Well done to our senior prizewinners!
Our Senior Prizegiving on Friday, 18 November was memorable as it was the last one attended by Mr Ferguson and Board Chair Mr Andrew Nicoll who are both leaving Westlake Boys High School (WBHS).
Reflecting on his 21 years at WBHS, Mr Ferguson described it as a “special place with a unique culture and community”.
To our students, he told them to "keep doing the hard things you don't like doing, and you're going to be successful".
Mr Ferguson paid tribute to Mr Nicoll, who has been "an absolute rock for me over the last nine years,” adding, "You
made a huge difference, and please know your work here has mattered."
He also thanked his “big sister,” Executive Assistant Mrs Sandra White, who will be leaving in April next year, saying, “She is the perfect ambassador for Westlake and the perfect person to work with. I’m going to miss you."
To those returning next year, he urged, “Keep building on what we have achieved, keep creating memories, and keep Westlake one of the best schools in the country.”
Congratulations to all our prizewinners for their hard work and dedication this year.
Top production in Auckland for second year
Westlake Productions once more enjoyed tremendous success at the Auckland Live Showdown Awards on Wednesday, 6 November.
At a packed Bruce Mason Centre, in front of parents and staff, as well as those from 21 other schools, Westlake Productions achieved five awards including the coveted supreme award: the Auckland Live Outstanding Production of 2024, for the Three Musketeers.
Westlake Productions were handsomely rewarded with:
• Best Properties Design – Carlos J Allport (student), Christine Bader, Nick Brown, Aurelie Kerbellec & Michael Wassell (The Three Musketeers)
• Outstanding Stage Management –Kasey Hani Lui (The Three Musketeers)
• Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical – Katie Brown (Crazy for You)
• Best Director – Nick Brown (The Three Musketeers)
• Auckland Live Showdown Award for Outstanding Production of 2024 (the supreme award) – The Three Musketeers
The main prize winners are:
• 1st in Year 12 - Alex Zhao (Brian Rivers Award)
• 1st in Year 13 - Alan Bailey (Don Johnson Award)
• Saniel Dones - Swan of the Year 2024
• Matthew Young - Nicholson Family Award for All-Round Excellence, Leadership and Character, and the PTA Award for Head Prefect
• Declan Squire - Pursuit of Excellence Award for Cultural Activities, and the Arthur Schubert Award for Outstanding and Selfless Contribution to Westlake Boys High School
• Alan Bailey - The John Patterson Memorial Award for Effort, Involvement and Loyalty, and the Don Johnson Trophy 1st in Year 13.
Pupuke House captains Luke Cudby and Thomas Raybould.
Cultural Captain Declan Squire, Head Boy Matt Young and 1st in Year 13 Alan Bailey
Departing board chair Mr Andrew Nicoll makes the opening addresses. Mr Blake Scanlen conducts our student and staff choir and Saniel Dones with his family.
The award-winning Three Musketeers crew on stage
Whole school Haka to honour our Headmaster
Headmaster Mr David Ferguson’s final assembly was a mixture of sadness and celebration as we recognised all of the great things he has achieved over the last 21 years at WBHS .
Wearing his green and red trainers on stage for one final time, Mr Ferguson reflected on his years at WBHS. He shared
memories of assemblies including the time when the whole school sang happy birthday to a student on stage. What he didn't mention to the boys at the time was that it was his birthday too.
He also spoke about the importance of taking on new challenges in life, the power of being optimistic and the importance of doing
Best Boys' team at Waka Ama regatta
We competed in the junior waka ama regatta at Ian Shaw park in Mount Wellington on Saturday 2 November and took out division 1 and 2 becoming overall boys' champions.
In the first race, our Division 1 Team (Year 9 and 10) came 2nd then made it into the finals which we won. We also got the fastest time of the day, the only kura to get under one minute. Our Division 2 team (Y9 and 10) got the fastest time in their division, which automatically sent us to the final. Overall, we took out both divisions to become the overall boys' champion team.
We owe it all to Whaea Lou and Whaea Q and a special shoutout to Whaea Nikki and Matua Lelia for organising trainings and transportation.
the hard work that you don't want to do.
At the end of assembly, as an appreciation for his 21 years of service to the school, nearly 15 of these as headmaster, our students gave a powerful performance of Te Haka o Ururoto - our school haka.
Sports Awards sign off special year
We held our annual Sports Awards Dinner on Thursday, 31 October to celebrate and recognise a wonderful sporting year.
We were also very fortunate to welcome back Westlaker and New Zealand Football icon Tommy Smith who spoke about his journey in Football.
Congratulations to our Sportsman of the Year and 2024 Arblaster Cup Winner Tai Rhodes. On top of this, we’d like to congratulate Ezra Morgan-Tafea who was the inaugural winner of the David Ferguson Cup for Outstanding All-Rounder, a new award in honour of our Headmaster, who will be leaving WBHS at the end of the year.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the event, and all of our very talented sportsmen and highly supportive coaches, parents, staff and sponsors.
The team competing at the Junior Waka Arna regatta.
Year 13 students with whaea Clare and Tai Rhodes (far right), our sportsman of the year.
Congratulations to our 2024 Co-Curricular Pride Award major winners
Contribution
Settle,
Male Allrounder of the Year - Aidan Simpkins & Manager of the Year - Grant Simpkins
Sportsman of the Year
Dima Kuzmenkov
Sportswoman of the Year Bailey Flavell
Team of the Year - Squash Premier Girls Sarah Bowden, Aggie Griffiths, Saara Joukani, Charlotte Bowden, Justine Pausch & Heather Bowden Maui Hitchens
Female Allrounder of the Year Rosara Davis
Junior Sportsman of the Year Connor Brady
Junior Sportswoman of the Year Zara Hayward Best Senior Rowing Crew Boys U18 VIII
Rosmini College celebrated their senior students that have showed a commitment to their learning and academic excellence at the 2024 Academic Prizegiving.
A number of university scholarships were awarded, and guests were treated to musical performances as well as inspiring speeches from Senior Leaders and Head Boy Yilin Lin, who received a standing ovation from his fellow Year 13s.
In an extraordinary situation, the Dux of Rosmini College for 2024 could not be decided! A record EIGHT gained 'Excellence' in every internal assessment they sat, so the school will gather again after the results of final examinations and announce a Dux and Proxime Accessit. What a phenomenal achievement by these outstanding young men.
See the full list of winners at rosmini.school.nz/news
Rosmini Pasifika community celebrate
With the auditorium decorated with colourful tapa and artwork, the Rosmini Pasifika community gathered at the Pasifika Celebration and Awards Evening to celebrate the efforts and achievements of students, and to farewell the Year 13 cohort.
Guests heard from inspiring Old Boys who shared their experience as a Pasifika student at Rosmini, and the journey they have been on after school. Following a buffet meal, Year 13 students performed a traditional dance, and awards were handed out. Congratulations to the main prize winners:
• Pereira-Stewart Cup for leadership - Patai Tearii
• Selani Poe Cup for service in the community - Lepo Sialetonga
• Art Fusion Cup for achievement in the arts - Patrick Lemeki
• Rudi Wulf Cup for most promising Pasifika sportsmanAnton Seuseu & Inoke Vaingalo
• Dr Laupepa Va'a Award for academic endeavour across the curriculum - Mason Stewart & Natana Pokura
Sporting Excellence recognised
Rosmini College hosted their annual Senior Sports Awards to celebrate the students who demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and sportsmanship in their chosen codes during 2024. The Premier Basketball team picked up the awards for Sports Team of the Year, and Sporting Performance of the Year for the 109-51 win over Westlake to reach the Auckland Premiers Final. The two main individual awards went to:
Mathew Mihaljevich – Sportsman of the Year: Rosmini Sports Captain for 2024, Mathew has been an exceptional sportsman throughout his time at the college. Mathew is an accomplished water polo player at rep level, playing in national title winning teams with North Harbour. Mathew has recently represented NZ in the World Aquatics U18 Water Polo Championships held in Argentina. Mathew also picked up the awards for Outstanding Contribution to Water Polo, and the Water Polo Leadership Cup.
Kayden Godbold – Junior Sportsman of the Year: Kayden is an all-round athlete who has excelled across cricket, rugby and water polo. In addition to his athletic ability, he lives up to the core values of the school, more specifically, in charity, where he raised over $4000 for UNICEF this year. Kayden also picked up the awards for Most Improved Junior Cricket, Rugby Junior Player of the Year, and the Maese Cup for Most Valuable Junior Water Polo player.
See the full list of winners at rosmini.school.nz/news
Silver for Rosmini Volleyball Junior Prems
The Rosmini Junior Volley Prems achieved the school's best ever junior result - second out of 48 teams at the recent Auckland Junior Volleyball Championship.
After taking out the Auckland Premier League the previous week, the players entered the competition playing well. As the tournament progressed, Rosmini started producing their best volleyball of the year, before unfortunately going down in three tight sets to Rangitoto College in the final.
Three players made the tournament team - Captain Fletcher Gaylard and Ben Roa in Year 10, and Year 9 Tate Sun.
Mathew Mihaljevich
Kayden Godbold
Daniel Cullum, Radeesha De Silva, Ryan Barry, Gyann Grepo, Harry Noonan, Yilin Lin, Jack Hollewand (Jack Davis not pictured)
Rangitoto College’s Girls and Boys' Junior Volleyball teams break records with outstanding wins
Rangitoto College is extremely proud to congratulate both our girls and boys' junior volleyball teams for coming first at the College Sport Auckland Championships last week. They played against fierce competition at the Pulman Arena in Takanini.
This is the fourth consecutive year that our Junior Girls have won this title and it is the first time that one school has won all the titles in the same year, as we hold titles for our Junior Boys, Junior Girls, Senior Boys, and Senior Girls' teams.
Rangitoto
Huge congratulations to our juniors who made the tournament team:
• Josh Cha
• Zac Jensen
• Kenny Zhang (MVP of tournament)
• Elena Hij
• Sienna Hickling-Crane
• Saya Lang
• Molly Caunce (MVP of tournament)
Rangitoto is once again exceptionally proud of the sportsmanship, dedication, and resilience shown by these players. The teams played in the Junior North Island Championships where the Junior Girls won Silver and the Junior Boys won Bronze. We are so proud of our players and we know they will continue to represent Rangitoto College with pride.
is once again exceptionally proud of the sportsmanship, dedication, and resilience shown by these players.
Junior Volleyball Auckland Champs
A stellar awards season for Rangitoto College
At the beginning of Term Four, Rangitoto College celebrated the success of our students in areas such as performing arts, service, sports, Māori and Pasifika spaces, and academics. Over the course of multiple awards evenings we were able to showcase the wide range of achievements our ākonga have accomplished this year. Well done to all award winners! We look forward to your continued success in 2025!
ARTS AWARDS
Top artists and performers were recognised at our annual Arts Awards. Congratulations to Joel Bird for winning the Zigliani Cup for Excellence in Performing Arts and Performing Artists of the Year.
SPORTS AWARDS
Sporting student success was celebrated at our annual Sports Awards. This year we had a remarkable three Sportswoman of the Year recipients. Congratulations to Kalea Norton, Gabrielle Doyle, and Monique Wieruszowski.
Also congratulations to two Sportsman of the Year recipients, Joe Leith and Joshua Ferrissey.
MĀORI AND PASIFICA SUCCESS EVENING
Our Māori and Pasifika students were joined by friends and whānau for our annual Success Evening. A number of performances were showcased and awards were presented.
Congratulations to Ben Bibbie and Rosita Misipati who received the Pacific Excellence Award.
Congratulations to Ngaawaimarino Simpkins who was awarded Te Manukura (Esteemed Leader).
SENIOR PRIZEGIVING
Students, staff, and whanāu enjoyed celebrating the success of our Year 12 and 13 students at our annual Senior Prizegiving. Congratulations to all award winners—we are so proud of all that you have achieved.
A special mention goes to the following award recipients:
Dux and Collene Roche Cup for all round excellence Xin Ang Lau
Proxime Accessit ad Ducem Josephine Deady
Principal’s Award for contribution to school life Honor Braid
Sr Mary Justine Award for contributing to Carmel’s special character Maia O'Callaghan
Sr Mary Justine Award for contributing to Carmel’s special character Niketa Fernando
Year 13 Deans’ Award for contribution to school life Lily McGivern
Stephen Tindall Award for exemplifying Mercy charisma Syntyche Khoo
BOT Excellence Award for recognifition of outstanding achievement Catherine O’Brien
End of Year Sports Awards 2024
Senior Musicianship Cup
Calli Romano
Junior Musicianship Cup
Klarion Tablizo
of Carmel Music Cup
Northcote from 1905 to 1915, as seen by 'The Northcote Athenaeum Meteor'
The digitisation and online hosting of 'The Northcote Athenaeum Meteor' magazine was done by The Preserving Local History and Educational Trust at: preservinglocalhistory.recollectcms.com.
The Northcote Athenaeum was formed on 7 May 1903 and followed the format of similar athenaeums and mechanics' institutes across the British Empire and North America from the mid-nineteenth to the early twentieth centuries. It featured musical performances, talks, debates, plays and literary recitations by many of the locals in the Northcote area. Starting with over 100 members, in 1907 the Athenaeum had 160 members, in 1909 it claimed over 250 members and in 1911 it had 214. At the 1906 census the Northcote Riding of Waitemata County had 1116 residents.
The Athenaeum was originally based at the Gladstone Hall in Onewa Road. Opened on 6 October 1886, that building was altered to become St Mary's Catholic Church from 19 March 1916. From October 1905, the Athenaeum also began to meet at Tarry's Bay View Hall, at present day 73 Queen Street and 74/76 Princes Street, and continued to meet there until 1917.
Tarry's Hall was originally built around November 1884 by Edmund George Lind. The Linds were very early settlers in Northcote, from at least 1876, and bought land between Queen and Princes Streets and Beach and Duke Roads. Edmund died in California in 1921. The Hall had a large strawberry garden attached and Philip and Mary Elizabeth Tarry purchased the property in late 1890. The building was later extended with a stage and dressing rooms. Philip died in 1906 and in 1917 the building became shops. At the same time, Mary had a fiveroom bungalow built at present day 79 Queen Street, at first for rent, and then for sale. She died in 1929 and the former hall burnt down on 18 August 1935.
The first issue of the Athenaeum's 'Meteor' was published on 22 September 1905, and the 11 annual issues offered eight, 10 or 12 pages of copy, for just one penny. Along with some advertisements, largely for goods and services on the city side, the 'Meteor' also included local Northcote photographs from William Archer Price (1866-1948).
Arnold Edward Hunter Harrison (1877-1963) was the first 'Meteor' Editor from 1905 to 1907. A lay reader at St John the Baptist Anglican Church in Northcote, Arnold also served on the Waitemata Electric Power Board from 1931 to 1938. He had been assistant town clerk at
By David Verran
Auckland City and held other administrative and sales agent positions.
Robert Gordon Hunt (1884-1958) was then editor from 1908 to 1909, and Arnold was again editor from 1910 to 1911. Ernest Gladhill D' Esterre (died 1954 aged 74) edited the 'Meteor' for 1912, and from 1913 to the first 1915 issue, Herbert Jones Emyrs (1883-1948) and James Bernard Hunt (18881960) were joint editors. For the second issue in 1915, it was just Herbert, as James had volunteered to serve in the First World War. Herbert served overseas from September 1916.
Horace Henry Hunt (1855-1926) and family came to New Zealand in 1891, and in 1901 moved from Napier to Princes Street in Northcote. Working as an accountant, he was the first president of the Athenaeum and a life member from 1913. Amongst other roles, he served on the Northcote Borough Council (1908-1917) and on the North Shore Scenic Board. He was also a J.P. from 1916. His wife Sarah Anne (1853-1934), sons Robert Gordon, James Bernard and Arthur Henry (1895-1972), and daughters Winifred Isabel (1890-1969 and Sarah Alice (1892-1975) were also all active at different times in the Athenaeum. The family later lived in Woodside Avenue.
George Samuel Graham (1874-1952) worked as a native (Māori) agent and was an amateur ethnographer. He was one of many speakers to members of the Athenaeum and a 'Meteor' contributor on Māori customs and the Māori history of both Northcote and Kauri Points.
By 1908, Northcote residents had a sufficient population to form a separate Borough, and the 1908 issue focused on the Borough's ceremonial launch on 8 August. Local Māori contributed towards both a flag and flagstaff, and attended the planting of a memorial totara. That launch also coincided with the visit of the American Navy's 'great white fleet' to Auckland.
After 1915, both the Athenaeum and the 'Meteor' went into 'hibernation', with a farewell meeting of the Athenaeum in July 1917, just before Tarry's Hall became shops. The Athenaeum's property went to Arnold Harrison and Robert Gordon Hunt. Nevertheless, in 1937, there was a short-term Northcote Athenaeum Dramatic Club, meeting in the then recently purchased Northcote R.S.A. clubrooms at present day 138 Queen Street.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
Tammy is the Managing Director at Davenports Law and leads the Trust Law and Wealth Protection team. She is a trust and asset structuring specialist with over 25 years legal experience specialising in the areas of personal asset planning, trust law and Property (Relationships) Act. She 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. She is only one of a handful of lawyers nationally who specialise solely in the area of trusts and asset planning, and is one of the leading lawyers in her field. Tammy is a past president of the Auckland Women Lawyers’ Association and past vice-president of the North Harbour Club, a charitable organisation on the North Shore. Tammy is a member of The Law Association Continuing Legal Education and Committee and is on the panel of interviewers for those looking to practice on their own account for the New Zealand Law Society.
Plan ahead today, for peace of mind tomorrow
Marie and Ken had been married for 10 years and both had adult children from previous marriages. They were now heading towards retirement and had decided to downsize. It wasn’t so much the size of the house, as the size of the grounds that was concerning them. They were also keen to travel a lot more, and really wanted something that was a 'lock-up-and-leave'. They put their home on the market and signed up for a townhouse which had been recently completed. They were excited to be moving to the next stage of their life together.
Three weeks before their settlement date for the sale of their property and purchase of the new one, Marie suffered a massive stroke. She was immediately admitted to hospital. She was all but unresponsive and while the doctors were confident that she would survive, they were not happy with the impact on her cognitive abilities.
Ken was beside himself, not just because of Marie’s condition, but also because of the impending move. He called the lawyer who was acting on the conveyancing to let him know of Marie’s stroke. The lawyer’s first question was as to Marie’s capacity to sign the necessary documentation relating to the sale and purchase. Ken told him that there was no way that Marie would be able to sign anything, but he would still be able to go into the lawyer’s office and sign what needed to be signed.
The lawyer told Ken that unfortunately it didn’t quite work like that, that he could only sign on Marie’s behalf if he had been appointed her power of attorney. Ken knew that was not the case. He did remember that their previous lawyer had briefly mentioned enduring powers of attorney to them at one stage, but Marie and Ken had thought that they would think more about that when they had retired. They had thought it was more something for elderly people who were starting to lose capacity.
The lawyer said that as Marie didn’t have powers of attorney in place, an application to the court would need to be made to appoint Ken as Marie’s property manager so he could sign the documents for the sale and purchase. He explained that this was not a straightforward process given their family dynamics. If Ken wished to apply, he would need to get the consent of Marie’s adult children, and they would need to have the opportunity to take their own legal advice. He also explained that the Court would appoint a lawyer to act for Marie and that sometimes the process could be easy, and other times it could be complex. Because the Courts were so busy, it also could be a few
weeks before a judge would even look at the application and it would most likely be looked at after their settlement date.
The process of applying for Ken to be Marie’s property manager ended up being slow and expensive. Not only was the application itself expensive, but because it didn’t happen before settlement date, Ken ended up paying penalty interest on both the sale and the purchase.
Enduring powers of attorney are one of the most important legal documents you can have. If you lose capacity without these in place, then someone has to make an application to the Court to be able to act on your behalf, regardless of whether you are married, in a relationship, or own property jointly. This process can become even more expensive and convoluted depending on your family’s circumstances. As well as the enduring power of attorney in relation to property, there is also one relating to your health and welfare, where you can appoint someone to make decisions about these things if you are not capable of making these decisions yourself.
I recommend that all my clients take the time to put these arrangements in place now, no matter their age or life stage. It’s a decision today that could make all the difference tomorrow.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND.
Do You Have An Enduring Power Of Attorney?
The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.
If you have a will, but not assigned anyone to act as your Enduring Power of Attorney, you could inadvertently be putting your assets at risk.
An Enduring Power of Attorney will look after both your property and personal care and welfare should you become incapacitated to make your own decisions while you’re still alive.
If you have not put in place an Enduring Power of Attorney, contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist advice.
Getting ready for the summer break
For many people, the December holidays are fast approaching and it's an opportune time to take a break from work, spend time with friends and family, and recharge their batteries. There are a few things to tick off before getting there though, to ensure that you and your business are well placed to restart in the New Year and avoid any nasty surprises.
January can be a challenging time for cashflow. Not only have you not traded through the summer break, therefore not generating income, but you have continued to pay staff and other operational expenses during this time. On top of this, there are Goods and Services Tax (GST), provisional tax, and fringe benefit tax (FBT) payments to make. So, whatever you have in your cash war chest before you stop for your summer break will need to last you until the end of January. Now is the time to make a final push on sales and debtor collection, as just like you, your customers may also be on holiday during that time and will only pay you when they are back in the office. A robust cashflow forecast will help eliminate any surprises. Having some cashflow contingency plans in place will also make sure you are prepared to quickly react to any cashflow challenges. Contingencies may include requesting a GST payment instalment plan with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), exploring tax-pooling options to help finance the provisional tax payment, arranging a temporary increase to your overdraft facility with your bank, or deferring any non-essential capital or discretionary expenditure until after the New Year.
Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace
Generally, any staff gifts which are less than $300 per employee per quarter and does not total more than $22,500 in unclassified benefits annually for all employees, will not be subject to FBT.
Also, the Christmas period is a good time to say thank you to your staff for the efforts which they have contributed during the year. Whether it be an additional day-off given to staff, a Christmas party, team activity, and/or staff gifts, there can be an unintended tax consequence to consider.
Generally, any staff gifts which are less than $300 per employee per quarter and does not total more than $22,500 in unclassified benefits annually for all employees, will not be subject to FBT. The unclassified benefits category also captures offering staff free, subsidised or discounted goods and services, and non-cash redeemable vouchers. Keep an eye on the value of any staff gifts otherwise you will need to pay FBT in January which may add to your cashflow woes.
Alternatively, you may be considering paying a cash bonus to your staff. Any cash bonuses will be subject to the PAYE rules which means returning this cash bonus as income for your employees through the payroll system.
Some employers may get a bit creative and provide staff with additional leave to say thank you, and keep employees engaged
with the business. As this additional leave is over and above the standard statutory requirements under the Holidays Act 2003, there is some flexibility as to how an employer may wish to treat this. The employer will need to make it clear to the employee that this is an additional benefit being received by them, it may be on a 'use it or lose it' basis, and it may be paid out at the employee’s ordinary pay rate. It would be good to lay this out in a letter or an agreement with the employee, to ensure there is no confusion from either party.
The holiday period can be a good time to gather your thoughts, evaluate what went well, what challenges you faced, and what you want to achieve next year. It would be good to compile these thoughts, as you can use this to set the theme for a strategy session with your senior leadership team, updating your business plan, and assisting with some of the assumptions for next year’s annual financial budget.
Please get in touch with our advisory team at Bellingham Wallace if you would like to know more about the above.
Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz
Legally Speaking with Rebecca Kroeze, Schnauer & Co (Senior Associate). Rebecca understands both from personal and professional experience that when it comes to family related matters it can be one of the most emotionally challenging times for our clients. Rebecca prides herself with providing caring, supportive, and experienced representation.
Pohutukawa promises
While sitting back and taking stock of the year that was and enjoying a (hopefully hot) summer break, you may find yourself contemplating moving in with your partner, or a marriage proposal.
If this is you, then you have an incredibly exciting time ahead and there are so many things to consider. Whether it is where to live, who will bring the washing machine or if you are getting married, who to invite and what flavour your cake should be, there are the less exciting but equally important considerations around legal and financial matters that you need to think about.
Unless you are both starting from ground zero, it is common for two people to come together with assets they have already acquired during their lives including Kiwisaver (which is often overlooked). It’s also not uncommon for one party to bring all the assets while the other brings very little. Whatever the circumstances, you should be informed about the Property (Relationships) Act and consider whether to enter into a Contracting Out Agreement to protect the assets. Entering into an Agreement doesn’t mean you cannot create a joint life and build assets together, it just clearly establishes the understanding between you in the event that things don’t go to plan.
When a couple have been in a de facto relationship, and/ or marriage for three years or more, then the provisions of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 applies. Should you separate or if one of you dies after three years , the Act provides for a starting point of equal division of all relationship property. This may not be desirable, especially if an asset you’re bringing into the relationship automatically becomes relationship property after three years ie. home and chattels (boats, cars, pets, knives and forks etc). Other assets that become relationship property include anything that you acquire during your relationship, regardless of who paid for it, eg. Kiwisaver, income, savings, life insurance policies etc. There are few exceptions where separate property is created without it being recorded in a Contracting Out Agreement. Importantly, it does not matter if you both agree, ‘what’s mine is mine and what’s yours is yours’. When parties separate, things that were agreed to when things were good, have no legal status.
So, before your relationship hits the three year mark, it is wise for you and your partner to consider the assets you have brought into your relationship (including savings, Kiwisaver, inheritances, your rare stamp collection or other equally important items) and seek legal advice from a Family Law specialist about the implications of the Act. Doing so gives you the opportunity to contract out of the Act if you and your partner agree that certain identified assets (or liabilities) should not be classified as relationship property going forward. While it may seem awkward at first, it doesn’t hurt to find out where you stand from a legal point of view so that you can make an informed decision going forward.
Schnauer & Co,
1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177
schnauer.com
Why it’s important
to teach about failure
The importance of dealing with failure and building resilience has been understood for some time. Nelson Mandela famously said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing, but in rising every time we fall.” It is often said that Thomas Edison didn’t fail in his attempts to invent the light bulb; rather, he invented the light bulb after 1000 steps. Both examples show the benefit of failing and persevering, so why do we still avoid actively teaching about it or using language that refers to failing?
Working through a struggle is often what leads to deeper understanding and, ultimately, mastery of a topic. When we backtrack our mistakes and reverse engineer a problem, it helps us truly understand a topic and how things work.
As teachers, we pose our students problems, and we then have to balance when to intervene to help these students and when to leave them to figure out the answers on their own. It can be hard to watch students struggle and, more often than not, fail. However, handling that failure and seeing that it is not the end, will make sure that they not only view the problem from a different perspective but also that they are better prepared to handle the obstacles that will surely come.
When faced with a challenge and having setbacks, students are forced to think flexibly…
Learning how to figure out a solution is one of the most valuable learning experiences that a student can have, far greater than understanding the question or task or just achieving it. How we deal with challenges and setbacks is the real learning that will prepare us for challenges later in life when it may not be possible to ask for help or just look up the answer.
When faced with a challenge and having setbacks, students are forced to think flexibly, and they have to use critical thinking skills to examine and reflect on what they did, what may have gone wrong and how they can adapt their approach to overcome this.
I have asked students to genuinely reflect on whether it is more satisfying to solve a problem the first time or to experience setbacks and come at it from a different angle, figuring out how they could adapt their approach and eventually achieve their goal. Almost unanimously, after some thought, it is the latter, overcoming the problems along the way, that they find more engaging, and a greater learning experience than solving the initial problem. This approach ensures that students learn about determination, resilience and perseverance along with getting greater satisfaction from their learning journey.
So, why do we continue to shy away from embracing failure? Let’s see it for what it is – the best learning opportunity we have and a way of truly engaging students with the process of inquiry-based learning and preparing them with the skills that they will need later in life to deal with whatever challenges are thrown their way. As educators, this is what we should be doing, not just teaching facts and always intervening to reduce the risk of failure.
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
A heartfelt thank you to our community
At Well Foundation, we’re grateful to be part of a compassionate and generous community whose support of our local hospital this past year has made a significant difference to patients and their families. Thank you to everyone who has donated to the Well Foundation. Please know that your contributions have enabled improved patient care and outcomes.
One of the most impactful achievements this year has been the completion of the Healing Garden. This large indoor green space provides a tranquil oasis and improves the well-being of patients, families and staff, offering a peaceful retreat within the hospital environment.
Additionally, the creation of new Whānau/Family rooms on each ward of the new hospital building has transformed the experience for loved ones of patients in critical care or at the end of their lives. These thoughtfully designed spaces offer privacy, comfort, and resources for families to rest and recharge during a difficult time. Each of these rooms was made possible thanks to generous donors in our community and they are a direct reflection of their compassion and desire to 'pay it forward' to others.
This past year with your support, we’ve also been able to fund the 'STEPS-A Youth Mental Health' pilot programme in nine intermediate schools on the Shore. This early intervention programme, facilitated by the hospital's Child and Youth Mental Health service, known as Marinoto, enabled young people to learn skills and tools to build resilience and help them cope with challenges.
We’re also thrilled to share that the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) was gifted a new incubator, therapy lights and a special heat pad thanks to the generosity of a local family whose baby needed special care to treat neonatal jaundice. In addition, North Shore Rotary raised funds to provide six new high-quality breast pumps to enable mothers to supply breast milk for their newborns in SCBU. Patients arriving unexpectedly at the hospital have been provided care packs with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, sleep mask and a hairbrush to help ease a stressful time. All these things would not have been possible without the support of individuals, local businesses, community groups like Rotary, schools that have held mufti days, grateful patient donors, and those who have given in memory of a loved one. All donations, big and small, make a difference. Thank you.
Thanks for being part of our journey to enhance hospital experiences for everyone in our community. We wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy and safe festive season.
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 Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
Sunnynook Community Centre in December
I would like to say a HUGE congratulations to Dr Sunny Lu who has just celebrated 20 years of The Tian Quan Qi Gong Classes in the Sunnynook Community Centre. I attended the celebration on 24 November where they presented me with a banner for the Community Centre.
Qigong is a form of healing exercise that has a history spanning back over 3000 years. It is a natural, easy and good way for a person to get in touch with the healing energy that is within them. The practice of Qigong has been shown to alleviate and improve all types of conditions and increase the practitioner’s sense of wellbeing. Classes are run at the Sunnynook Community Centre on Sundays from 3pm to 5.15pm. Please contact Sunny Lu 021 236 0691 for more information or if you wish to attend a class.
We would love to see you at our Christmas Family Bike Ride around Sunnynook Park on Sunday 15 December –5pm to 7pm. Dress up in Christmas costume! Bring your bike/scooter, helmet and a picnic tea, children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet by the Sunnynook Community Centre Playground.
Please check out our website for up to date information about our classes.
We would love to see you at our Christmas Family Bike Ride around Sunnynook Park…
If you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our Community Newsletters please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.
Kind regards
Bronwyn Bound, Centre Manager, Sunnynook Community Centre
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
What a year for Yes Disability and I.Lead!
As the rain fades away to summer days, Yes Disability and I.Lead aren’t slowing down as the end of the year approaches!
YES Disability has launched its Disabled Men’s Mental Health Group. We are inviting disabled men 18+ years old who don’t often get 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. This group aims to normalise the discussion of mental health challenges among disabled men. The sessions will occur monthly on Wednesdays at Phab Pacifica in Papatoetoe, with 11 December being our final session of the year. Interested? Email Abdulla at abdulla@yesdisability.org.nz
I.Lead attended Disability Sport Auckland’s Women and Girls in Sport expo at the Albany Sports Park. With inclusive sport and recreation being one of I.Lead’s passion areas, we were excited to be a part of such an awesome event.
With I.Lead’s regional committees in full swing, our new National I.Lead committee had their first meeting in November. At this meeting, the committee starting planning I.Lead’s 2025 projects and discussed each regional committee’s current projects. The National committee will meet a minimum of four times a year, enabling members aged 16-30 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.
In November, our William Pike Challenge(WPC) participants went sailing with Sailability. For many of the participants, this was their first time setting sail across the water, pushing them outside of 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, well-being, confidence, and skills through outdoor adventures, community service, and passion projects. The next intake for the second WPC participant group will be in February 2025.
To celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December), I.Lead will be hosting an I.Connect Live session at Shore Junction in Takapuna. This live session allows I.Connect attendees who would normally communicate through a video-call to connect in person. I.Connect is a weekly event that is hosted on Facebook through our messenger group. We chat about weekly topics that are current and relevant to the young disabled people we support.
Our I.Drive dates for 2025 have been announced! These dates for our workshops in Auckland’s North Shore, South Auckland, Dunedin, and Hamilton can be found on our website. We also have 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.
By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager
Devonport offers lots of Christmas choice!
If something original and creative is on your gift buying list for Christmas, or any other page of the 2025 calendar, then Devonport village makes an ideal shopping destination. In the relaxed dawdling space of just a few hundred metres you will find four gallery spaces along with a number of exceptional and arty gift shops, all with very different offerings at a wide range of prices.
Ferry users will be familiar with the Land and Seas Art Gallery in the terminal building, an eclectic repository of creativity by local artists of differing talents, hobbyists to retired professionals. Land and Seas provides a free space for beginners to sell their works and many of the volunteer staff are the artists themselves. Open 7 days from 10am-4pm, prices range from just dollars to a few thousand. facebook.com/landandseasgallery
At another end of the professionalism spectrum the art-buyer destination Flagstaff Gallery has a vast selection of petite-to-huge spectacular art pieces priced from $200 on upwards to five figures. Situated on the corner of Victoria Rd and Flagstaff Tce it is one of the longest-standing modern art galleries in Auckland, having been representing Kiwi artists since 1993. Flagstaff Gallery is open 7 days from 10am-5pm. flagstaff.nz
Just across Victoria Rd is the small but very active Satellite2 gallery where the primary interest is in how best to represent artists for whom matters of social justice, equity and exploitation, environmental protection, the metaphysical and super-natural are a defining feature of their work. In short, all manner of amazing and eye-catching artworks that typically carry a message. Prices range upwards from $200 or so. Open Wed - Sunday, 10am-2pm, the curated exhibitions at Satellite2 change monthly, so you can always expect to find something new and very different. satellite2.co.nz
The cool new kid on Devonport’s art gallery block is the second home for Depot Artspace, at 3 Victoria Rd. With a suite of artist studios on the first floor the ground level of Devonport’s historic Borough Chambers building now houses a beautifully spacious art shop and gallery, offering artisan art and objects including paintings, prints, jewellery, ceramics and handmade treasures from local makers and artists throughout Aotearoa. Opening hours are TuesSunday,10am-4pm. depot.org.nz
On behalf of all businesses represented, the DBA wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year. Come and visit us anytime, shop local, Devonport would love to see you.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead
ANCAD’s Community Accounting programme celebrates another successful year
Massey University students, CA mentors and community groups join together for the award ceremony at Massey University
Community Accounting
Auckland North Community and Development (ANCAD)'s Community Accounting programme is a free and confidential service for community groups. This is a collaborative partnership between ANCAD, Massey University and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. This service is for small community groups, including charitable trusts, incorporated societies and registered charities who require accounting assistance. The next intake of community groups will take place leading up to a start with assistance in March 2025. If you are a chartered accountant wishing to volunteer your time to help, please do get in contact also. Contact ANCAD’s Community Accounting programme lead, Eva Chen eva@ancad.org.nz
LiiFT Aotearoa professional development and training
ANCAD offers the not-for-profit community free to subsidised professional development opportunities and training. These take place throughout the year and occur regularly. Check out the dedicated training website found at www.LiiFT.nz for more information about online and in-person workshops.
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
Community Accounting Ceremony with Massey University Students, and CA mentors and some of the community groups supported. Front left: Eva Chen. Front right: Fiona Brennan (ANCAD General Manager)
TAKAPUNA | 3B COLLINS STREET
Stylish Downsizer | Superb Location
Located in a quiet and highly sought-after cul-de-sac in Central Takapuna, only a stones throw distance from the village, beaches, cafes, restaurants and Lake Pupuke this fully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom lock-and-leave brick and tile property offers a modern single-level layout with a lovely sunny aspect. Featuring a brand-new kitchen and bathroom, fresh paint, new carpet, and a bright sunroom that fills the space with natural light. Enjoy the ease of internal access from the garage and the added benefit of a small grassed area with a garden shed. Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, move-in-ready property in one of Takapuna’s most sought-after locations, this home is a must-see. Perfect for first-time buyers, downsizers, or anyone looking for a stylish, easy-care home in the heart of Takapuna.
premium.co.nz /80633
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EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSE | WEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER
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!).
A whirlwind three months
I’m back! After a whirlwind three months of ups and downs and catching up with old friends. I thank my Old Mate from the Pub for his hard work. In fact, I almost feel like handing my old Royal typewriter over to him, so he can continue his good work.
So I went to the America’s Cup in Barcelona for the entirety of the Regatta. I had a reasonably decent apartment about 10 minutes walk from the downtown yachting action, as I wanted to live the Spanish life for a little while. Not too much touring around, just enjoying the local neighbourhood, the local cafes and restaurants and supermarkets. The second-hand shops, markets and every other place that makes up a grand city like Barcelona. I camped myself down in the fan zone for every day’s racing, the Louis Vuitton Regatta and the actual America’s Cup which was virtually six weeks of sailing. It was bliss.
I kept running into different people I’d met in a previous lifetime; some I hadn’t seen for well over 40 years. So lovely having an unbelievably tight police presence all the time, that I saw happening both on and off the water, and at times, cruising through the fan zone on electric motorbikes with sub-machine guns. Certainly, giving any would be criminal pause for thought.
I really enjoyed the huge food markets, with the abundance of beautiful fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and meat, bakery items from all around the local areas. It was so easy to eat well every day.
During a 10-day break between the Louis Vuitton Series and the start of the actual America’s Cup, I took the time to get a rental car and drive up to Brittany in France, some 900 kms from Barcelona to visit some old friends I had sailed around the world against. A wonderful reunion with some men I hadn’t seen forever and may well never see again. I stayed in one of their homes and lived the French way for five days; it could teach us a few things about working a 35-hour week and having a glass of red wine at lunchtime, followed by a bit of a snooze.
After the two months in Barcelona, I was very sad to say goodbye, I enjoyed it immensely. It was something I had always wanted to do, live the Spanish way for a period of time. A few takes I did bring from Europe, we should introduce more toll roads to pay for our flagging infrastructure situation. The roads in France and Spain were incredibly easy to navigate, and an absolute delight to drive on and the toll booths are very easy to manoeuvre through. I would like to see more tolls in this country to pay for roading. It became abundantly clear to me that New Zealand is a very small country at the bottom of the world, and we simply don’t generate enough tax revenue to pay for the niceties we need. This would include great hospitals, stadiums, roads and good schools and universities. All these can only be paid for by taxpayer dollars, but the solution is not to simply tax more and more.
One of the keys to helping us get back on our feet is productivity. I saw more orange cones on the way back from the airport to Devonport than I’d seen on my whole trip away and noticed that
the roadworks in Lake Road hadn’t moved more than 100 metres in the two months I had been away. Apparently this shambles in Lake Road is to install a new electrical cable for the charging of a new electric ferry, so my people at the coalface tell me.
I was talking with a young New Zealander in Barcelona who had come down from London for the first weekend of racing, and I asked him if he would ever go back to New Zealand. His answer was no, he wouldn’t want to go back to a country embroiled in ongoing treaty issues, the small mindedness of local politics and the “hermit country” mentality that some of us still have as a hangover from Covid times.
After the two months in Barcelona, I was very sad to say goodbye, I enjoyed it immensely. It was something I had always wanted to do, live the Spanish way for a period of time.
I feel sad, because we live in a beautiful country and we have people who do so many great things, but I feel we have been let down by numerous governments over the last years and we need a positive way forward.
Lastly, on the day after my return from Barcelona I had a medical event that caused me to spend a week in the cardiac ward at North Shore Hospital. Within that ward I met the heroes of this country, the doctors and the nurses, the cleaners and the porters, the phlebotomists, the meal bringers, the cup of tea ladies, these are the real celebrities in this country, not the extremely overpaid people who think they are.
I would like to thank each and every one of them, for their compassion, their knowledge and care, their warmth and humour and their ongoing hard work. I thank them from the bottom of my heart, and I wish them all a really happy Christmas. It was indeed a humbling experience that week in the cardiac ward at North Shore Hospital. We are extremely lucky to have these people in our midst.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everybody.
with Lindsay Knight
Busy time for umpires
Among the busiest members of the North Harbour bowling community in the first half of the 2024-25 season have been the centre’s small, but dedicated band of umpires.
They have already been involved in a range of tournaments starting in late September and their role will continue well into the new year.
In early October they were out in force in the Metlifecare Masters which involved many 'senior' bowlers for the best part of the week. That was followed in November by major centre championships, then towards the end of last month by the most prestigious event ever hosted by Bowls North Harbour.
This was the world men and women’s champion of champions singles tournament at the Browns Bay club and as Harbour’s umpires acted not only as umpires but as markers, it meant several training rehearsals.
That had been preceded by a warm-up event, the Oceania Challenge hosted by the Auckland centre, and then over the ChristmasNew Year break they will be again active when Auckland and North Harbour host the national singles and pairs championships.
This is all a big ask for a Harbour umpires membership of just 22. As umpires association past president, and Bowls North Harbour board member Sue Rossiter says , this is “not enough.”
“But,” she says. “We have a lot of fun with regular gatherings for training and swapping stories.”
As with referees and umpires in all other codes, umpires are the unsung heroes of bowls, often spending long days from early mornings into the evenings overseeing tournaments.
While bowling is essentially a simple exercise, of merely propelling a bowl towards the smaller object known as the jack or kitty, it has a surprisingly lengthy and complex set of rules and regulations.
Umpires need to be experts of any contingency that can arise in the heat of battle. They also need a firm hand in seeing that the etiquette
and sportsmanship which underpin the sport are always observed. It also helps if umpires have been competent players themselves and as Sue Rossiter points out, North Harbour is fortunate in that respect. One of its members, Sheryl Wellington, from the Mairangi Bay club, has won five centre titles and so has her gold star. And as two of the newer umpires, Michelle Macdonald is in the centre’s women’s representative development squad and Deanne Broland is in the one-to-five-year representative squad.
Sue, herself, has been a useful performer on the green, in the 201112 season winning the Takapuna club’s women’s singles, pairs, triples and four. She, Lorna Donald and Margaret Eames have the distinction of being internationally qualified umpires.
To raise funds and to give umpires greater rapport with the centre’s playing members, the umpires run three tournaments each season, the first of which this season, was held recently at Mairangi Bay and was won by a team from the Riverhead club.
This was for a trophy named in honour of an umpiring legend, Jean Ashby, who after being an official at many high-profile international tournaments has been honoured with life membership of both the Harbour centre and Bowls New Zealand.
The fund-raising at the tournaments is for essential umpiring equipment such as high-tech lasers which will further ensure greater speed and accuracy in measuring.
Meanwhile, North Harbour will have a representative at next year’s world champions of champions. Keiko Kurohara, a popular member of the Takapuna club and its secretary, recently won the Japan national singles title as well as the pairs. She has represented Japan in international events for some years.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
Bowls umpiring legend Jean Ashby with the winning Riverhead team at the recent Umpires tournament.
Surviving and thriving in your first job
By Ellie Brown
Summer is here and with it, for many of our youth readers, perhaps a part-time job.
Whether this is your first experience entering the oh-so-great world of the workforce or you’ve already dipped your toes in, I can guarantee you’re probably feeling a mix of the high of a paycheck and the simultaneous dread about the fact that your summer might not just mean sleep-ins and endless beach days.
Beginning the working journey is hard work, filled with a healthy dose of embarrassing scenarios and ‘why on earth did I do this’ moments. The ‘humble’ (see disclaimer*) part-time hospo job is guaranteed to have even the 'chillest of the chill' questioning their will to live, when faced with a particularly challenging customer. However, work comes with its perks. I’ve met amazing friends and made valuable connections through part-time jobs. Also, the feeling of independence and pride you get by making your own money (and having it to spend as you wish!) is truly unparalleled.
Read along for my best tips (as a selfproclaimed veteran of the part-time job) for surviving and thriving in a summer job.
1. Patience: People will try you. Whether that will be customers, your overcontrolling boss (we’ve all had one of those), or your co-workers, getting a part-time job will truly make sense of the phrase ‘patience is a virtue’. In order to thrive, learning how to be patient with others and become a resolution-based person is crucial. If you can learn to do this now, you will be in an excellent position for future career opportunities. What makes a great worker shine is knowing how to pick your battles.
2. Stand up for yourself: Knowing how to pick your battles and demonstrating a level of patience and maturity, however, does not mean you have to be placid. If something does not feel right, or you
don’t like the way you’re being treated, speak up. The customer is not always right, and it’s okay to stand up for yourself.
3. Make friends with your co-workers: This will make or break your job experience. You will be spending a lot of time in your co-workers’ presence, and it will make your job a heck of a lot more enjoyable if you get along with the people around you.
4. Show interest in your customers: Continuing from the last point, it pays to strike up that convo with customers! You never know what connections are out there. Speaking from experience, if you can form a connection with a friendly customer, it will make your day go so much faster, and be so much more fun. The benefit of stepping outside your comfort zone to strike up a convo will always outweigh the cost of potential embarrassment or anxiety. People value connection and friendliness.
5. Keep the momentum going: At the risk of sounding like a mum, it does really pay to keep that daily routine going. Even
though it’s summer and school is no longer on the radar, try to keep yourself in a rhythm if you are getting into work this summer. Not going to bed too late, staying hydrated and well-fed etc, will save you during a long shift. Also, don’t forget to congratulate yourself! Getting into work isn’t easy, and you deserve to celebrate your wins (even if it is just a 'Hell yeah, I turned up for my shift today!')
6. Get that KiwiSaver started early: Ahem… free money! Sure, you can’t touch it for a long time yet, but I would definitely recommend starting up with Kiwisaver from the get-go. There is no obligation to contribute a huge part of your earnings at all, but even 3% will go a long way and set you up quite nicely for the future. Look into it!
*Disclaimer: Never hate on or diminish the 'humble hospo worker' until you’ve experienced it. Hospo, although often classified as the 'lowly' summer job, is an extremely valid but also challenging line of work! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
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.
New Zealand’s newest and biggest printing machine for big images
For over two decades Benefitz has been one of the very few in the New Zealand market to be able to print 5 metres wide. This is set to continue well into the future with the recent installation of the brand new Fujifilm Acuity Ultra R2 LED Printer – 5 metres wide!
This new machine has replaced our Uvistar 5 metre printer that we had for many years. The purchase continues our strong partnership with Fujifilm. They have been a very reliable supply partner for a long period.
As well as providing us with the best power in the country to print big images, the new machine offers many other advantages.
It is estimated that the Acuity Ultra R2 uses one third of the power required by the machine it is replacing, the benefits of the LED technology. Ink usage is 30-40% more efficient and there are also advantages in longevity of the LED technology (lamps etc).
The machine is faster, more automated, and resolution (quality) is also substantially higher at 1200dpi, versus the previous machine that was 600dpi.
Due to the improved resolution and extra substrates that this new machine prints on there will be advantages in versatility with the new technology.
“We have been customers of Fujifilm for over 25 years,” explained Benefitz MD Aidan Bennett, when reflecting on the decision to order the machine. “We work with them on small format digital machinery and our large/grand format machinery. We had no hesitation on choosing to entrust them again with this investment as they were fantastic with the support they provided on the previous machine. They are very good with their servicing and technical support.”
New Zealand’s newest and biggest printing machine for big images is printing now at Benefitz – powered by solar.
• Prints up to 5 metres wide and just about any length
• LED UV inks with 3.5 picolitre drop size at 1200dpi
• Prints billboard skins, mesh/scrim banners, fabrics, backlit images & more!
• Suitable for both outdoor & indoor prints.
Benefitz team members Blake Douglas, Stuart Fausett, Dallas Bennett and Gerrard Zohs with the new machine.
BIG PRINTING POWER
For over two decades Benefitz has been one of the very few in the New Zealand market to be able to print 5 metres wide. This is set to continue well into the future with the recent installation of the brand new Fujifilm Acuity Ultra R2 UV Printer – 5 metres wide!
THE BENEFITS…
• Prints up to 5 metres wide and just about any length.
• LED UV inks with 3.5 picolitre drop size, superb quality!
• Prints big Billboard skins and PVC Mesh banners in no time.
• Also prints on Fabrics, Backlit and a wide range of substrates.
• High resolution for both Outdoor and Indoor prints.
• Powered by Solar.
DISPLAYS HIGH IMPACT
HIGH IMPACT PORTABLE DISPLAY SYSTEMS
At Benefitz we have a wide range of high impact portable displays that can be produced very economically.
We import or manufacture the hardware and then print and finish the easy-to-assemble displays. We stock displays from 600mm to 6 metres wide and can also custom-make displays to any size.
For more details visit our website or contact us to talk to a Benefitz Account Manager.
3m
Kidney Stands
1.2m
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 YACHTING
#jointheclub – dyc.org.nz
Enjoy great dining, panoramic views, and a lively social scene. You don’t even need a boat.
TAKAPUNA 8:00am-1:00pm, michies@supershoppes.co.nz www.autosupershoppes.co.nz/shoppes/michies OPEN FOR SERVICING, REPAIRS AND VTNZ WOF. LOCAL PICK UP AND DROP OFF AVAILABLE.
FL AGS & FAB R I C !
At Benefitz we design and produce just about anything that assists communication. Business Cards, Magazines, Signage, Websites, Books, Brochures, Posters, Banners and lots lots more!
Driving Miss Daisy
uckland o the vet • ACC cont • Pre-bookings essential
Milford: 09 551 3050
Nor th Bays: 09 473 8186
Albany: 09 476 0011
Over the past 18 months we’ve made a massive investment in fabric – and we love it! W ith our state-of-the-art machinery we produce lots and lots of flags and many other items with vibrant printed fabric – like exhibition items, display stands, media walls etc etc
Talk to Aidan Bennett (021500997) or email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz
www.benefitz.co.nz
Phone us on 09 477 4700
Find us on
The Channel Crossword
Note to solver: All across clues have been subjected to "Printer's Devilry" - each is a sentence from which a string of letters has been removed and, in some cases, punctuation and spaces rearranged. The challenge is to find the missing word or phrase, which should be entered into the grid. Down clues are normal. Example: A galling remark - an effective riposte is difficult (7) (Azed, 1,888). The correct answer is INSTATE, which can be slotted in to form the sentence: "Against a telling remark, an effective riposte is difficult."
Across
1 Winning spring of reporters about the race (12)
7 Chicken can be called wheat (4)
10 Can is I cans? (5)
11 Has Desmond, known as Dessert, known as Rob? (6)
12 "Please pass the mud!" (4)
14 "Here is the Top ordered!" (7)
15 Being cornets brain for Dr Frankenstein (7)
17 Can a strong a steroid as dangerous? (6)
19 Having climbed Vincent with equal care (10)
22 I tapestry beautiful song (5)
24 To have and toot (5)
25 Tea aged don is due at the End of the World (5)
27 Firs thus ban in a player (10)
28 It's clever stitching thawing a part (6)
31 Weapons weren't plentiful - sword (7)
33 See 37
37/33 After the magazine article on my paintings was published, I kept snip petition (4-7)
38 The Shogun had an Indian (6)
39 Brady provides light entertainment (5)
40 I six aid to mean no? (4)
41 Nor echoed around the Bates Motel (12)
Down
1 One container holds a constant chill (3,2)
Solution to last month's crossword
2 Best Arizona gemstone (5)
3 Depending on hammer-wielder going over Thor's head (7)
4 Time little gutless Zoe shows pluck (6)
5 Hang around old city in Sri Lanka (4)
6 Batman, evil? Perhaps, I'm not sure (10)
8 "Nite out" from institute upset African (5)
9 Leaves are almost aboard satellites (7)
13 Dry a metaphorical type of curtain with chip (6)
16 Supreme lord moving me to the top, above Sun God - that's a concept in Hinduism (7)
17 Eggs done, I hear? (3)
18 Creeps past sharp blades (5)
20 Delta waves given out (5)
21 Game bird from Dance city, California (10)
23 No idle fancy, shooting star (6)
26 West of one third of whirlpool (3)
27 Actress Barbara's Robin without an American shade (7)
29 Gap is special to easily passing test (7)
30 Resort admitting that woman's a mountaineer (6)
32 L-leader deposed after n-nice... (5)
34 ..cougar, for example, brought up third person? Understood (5)
35 Entrance swallows new presenter (5)
36 Worry over women's suffrage, in part (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.
THE GELÄNDEWAGEN.
The new Mercedes-AMG G 63
The G 63 features a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo AMG engine complemented by an innovative 48V mild hybrid system which delivers an impressive 430 kW (585 hp) and a torque of 850 Nm. Combined with the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension option, you can experience exceptional handling and enhanced comfort on every terrain.
JOIN US IN SUPPORTING WOVEN EARTH AND LITTLEMORE
Donations can include toys, furniture, giftvouchers or other festive gifts.
Drop-off point: New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty 159 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna
What can I not give? Think about if you would give these gifts to a family member or neighbour. If yes, then it can be donated.
