Channel Magazine February 2025

Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill, Castor Bay, Sunnynook, Campbells Bay, Mairangi

Accelerating success.

For Lease

CENTRAL TAKAPUNA OFFICE: 200 - 750 SQM

Available to lease now. This centrally located Takapuna building ticks so many boxes. Located minutes from Takapuna beach and excellent amenities.

The Landlord offers generous incentives and well below market effective rental depending on terms and conditions.

Key Features include:

• 200 - 750 sqm modern office (can be split)

• Many options available

• Central Takapuna location

• Generous incentives offered

To view the property or request further information, please contact office specialist, Janet Marshall, Director - Commercial.

200 - 750 sqm modern office (can be split) Many options available Central Takapuna location Generous incentives offered

JIMMY O’BRIEN

General Manager | Director

M 021 979 001

E jimmy.o’brien@colliers.com

JANET MARSHALL

Director | Commercial

M 021 684 775

E janet.marshall@colliers.com

MATT PRENTICE

Director | Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 021 464 904

E matt.prentice@colliers.com

SHONEET CHAND

Director | Investment Sales

M 021 400 765

E shoneet.chand@colliers.com

RYAN DE ZWART

Associate Director

Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 021 575 001

E ryan.dezwart@colliers.com

JACK TUSON

Associate Director

Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 027 448 1148

E jack.tuson@colliers.com

MIKE RYAN

Industrial Sales & Leasing

M 021 402 461

E mike.ryan@colliers.com

NICK RECORDON

Commercial Sales & Leasing

M 027 230 6751

E nick.recordon@colliers.com

BLAIR SMITH

Commercial Sales & Leasing

M 021 294 0655

E blair.smith@colliers.com

Increasing business confidence in 2025

Colliers North Shore office is seeing signs of business confidence as we start the new year with the sales of two office units at 331 Rosedale Road and an industrial unit at 17 Parity Place. Investor demand has increased with demand for quality investments, and a number under contract. Signs are that the RBNZ looks set to cut the OCR by 50 bps in February, followed by 25 bps cuts in April and May, taking the OCR to 3.25% by the end of 2025.

Our team look forward to assisting existing and new clients, so do call us for sales or leasing opportunities, and market updates.

Janet Marshall, Director - Commercial

ANDREW DORREEN

One of Auckland’s finest cliff-front homes 245 BEACH ROAD, CAMPBELLS BAY

Nestled on over half an acre of prime clifftop land in Campbells Bay, this extraordinary Cape Cod-inspired residence is the epitome of luxury living.

Designed for those who seek elegance, privacy, and lifestyle perfection, this home spans nearly 700m2 of floor area, seamlessly blending timeless sophistication with modern comfort. The heart of this home features four to five distinct living areas, all designed to cater to your every need.

Host unforgettable gatherings in the games room, complete with a semikitchenette, billiard table, gym and traditional wine cellar, or indulge in the eight-seater private media room with reclining leather chairs, surround sound and bar area. The vaulted formal dining, accented with natural timber ceilings, opens into a grand formal lounge with bespoke walnutstyle panelling, creating a stunning setting for any occasion.

The chef’s kitchen is a masterpiece, boasting a marble island, Miele and Gaggenau appliances, and a separate scullery. Flowing into an informal

Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ

Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

dining and lounge area with a cozy gas fire and solid French oak floors, this space is as functional as it is beautiful.

Five luxurious ensuited bedrooms offer ultimate privacy, including a spectacular master suite with wrap-around decking and unmatched coastal views. A separate office or sixth bedroom adds versatility to this remarkable home. Step outside to enjoy your heated infinity pool, spa, and floodlit tennis court, all surrounded by Hinuera stone paving. Private beach access adds an exclusive touch, ensuring every day feels like a retreat.

Positioned on Auckland’s prestigious North Shore, this estate is just minutes from top schools, boutique shopping, dining, and world-class beaches, combining convenience with tranquillity.

This is more than a home – it’s a lifestyle. Arrange your private viewing today to experience the sheer magnificence of this cliff-front sanctuary.

Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com

Phone: 021 747 334

Over $1.3 Billion total sales

ANDREW DORREEN

Elegant beachside – five back from the beach

18A TIRI ROAD, MILFORD

Just steps from the golden sands of Milford Beach, this stunning 461m² home sits on a prime 639m² freehold site in one of the area’s most desirable streets.

Constructed as a new build for the owners of Santa Barbara Homes as their own residence, this home offers luxury, space and style in a highly soughtafter location within walking distance of Milford and Takapuna. High stud ceilings create a sense of real grandeur throughout, while multiple living areas (four in total) effortlessly connect to the fully fenced yard, heated pool, meticulously maintained gardens and multiple outdoor entertaining areas. This home is perfectly designed for families who value space, light, and the ultimate indoor-outdoor flow by the beach.

The master suite, complete with a walk-in wardrobe, ensuite, and private balcony, enjoys views over the grounds and the water. Four additional upstairs bedrooms feature air-conditioning and share a large, luxurious family bathroom. The versatile sixth bedroom currently functions as a

fourth living area but could also serve as an office or spacious guest suite with its own ensuite.

On the lower level is a recently fully upgraded media room with premium Lutron equipment, offering a dramatic cinema experience with a new projector and screen. This magnificent property comes complete with a two- to three-car internal access garage plus additional storage. Rich timber detailing, stone, schist, shutters and lush plantings combine to create a resort ambiance which evokes a feeling of being on holiday year-round.

It is zoned for top North Shore schools including Milford Primary School, Takapuna Primary School, Westlake Girls, Westlake Boys, Takapuna Normal Intermediate and Takapuna Grammar.

This contemporary home blends elegance and practicality, just moments from Milford’s vibrant cafes and shops, Takapuna’s nightlife, and the serene beachside lifestyle. Whether entertaining or enjoying quiet family time, this property provides the perfect balance of sophistication and comfort.

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 pool has been digitally enhanced

A belated Happy New Year to you all. 2025, it’s here! We kick off the year with a cracking issue, setting a pretty good benchmark for our next 10 issues still to come. The February issue is always a challenging one, as we are compiling the content while many are still away enjoying the summer.

We have produced Channel Mag for 15 years and over that time I have always enjoyed getting out and interviewing people for our features. For this issue, I have especially enjoyed features I have put together by visiting Blair McPheat of local Birkdale firm BFM Global, and Paul Fordham, the new headmaster at Westlake Boys High School. Both are high achievers and strong leaders with a strong history and connections to the Shore. Blair’s family is well-known in business and the community on the Shore, and what he is now achieving on a global scale with the BFM product he invented is heartwarming. Paul, born in North Shore Hospital and raised on the Shore, has been chosen as the first old boy to be headmaster of Westlake Boys. I trust you will enjoy reading these interviews.

Also in this issue, Christine (Young) has

Publisher/Advertising

Advertising/Content

Advertising/Content

done an interesting interview with Dame Julie Chapman who received a DNZM in this year's New Year Honours, for services to children and the community. Well-deserved recognition for all that she has done and continues to do. Our other features in February are ‘Travel’ as well as ‘Creatives, Arts and Entertainment’, celebrating our creative sector. In our Q&A feature, we talk with four local people who have caught the golf 'bug' in recent times. Golf and our wonderful local golf clubs and courses have never been busier; we went out to discover what is hooking people into chasing a little white ball far and wide!

Our team at Channel Mag and Benefitz has enjoyed a busy start to the year. There is certainly a feeling of optimism about 2025, let’s hope it develops into a good year for all.

Enjoy your FREE February 2025 Channel Mag – there’s something in here for everyone!

Aidan

Bennett, QSM Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder & Managing Director, Benefitz Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz

Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz

Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz

Online and Social Media

Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz

CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.

Aidan Bennett, Crystal Sharp, Liz Cannon, Kim McIntosh, Klaudia Wal

DEPOT looks forward to the year ahead

After months of being closed due to severe flooding in September last year, Depot's re-opening of its Clarence Street galleries was a wonderfully heartfelt celebration held on 12 December. Depot Sound recording studios are also fully open again this month and have come back stronger than ever. Depot has so much amazing mahi going on for 2025, with its Wayfind Creative programme, beautiful Depot Artspace galleries and exhibitions, and Depot Shop, located at 3 Victoria Road, Devonport, supporting local arts and artisans. We love Depot and the truly inspirational work the team does, keeping all things creative thriving in Devonport and across the North Shore.

Jude Chambers, Nicole Devine, Heather Galbraith and Amy Saunders

Katie Richeboeuf, Janet Mazenier and Karen Rubado

Claudine Muru and Tyler Morgan

Lisani Lennox, Robbi Carvalho and Kirst Newton

Gurnoor Bedi and Oshini Bandara

Iulia Simtion, Stacey Edgar and Jen Martin

Mary-Lyn Chambers and Michaela Fitzgerald

Benjamin de Silva and Muhammad Hussain

Shakespeare in the Park:

Richard III spellbinding in modern take

Spending a gorgeous summer evening at the PumpHouse's beautiful outdoor Amphitheatre to watch Shakespeare is always an absolute joy, and Richard III is no exception. Cath Boniface's direction is inspired, and her vision is successfully translated to the stage by the very talented cast, with notable performances by leading actors and those performing in minor roles. The horror that is the plot of Richard III is well-suited to being set in the ganglands of 1940s post-war London, and the wonderful costumes bring this adaptation to life with authenticity and flair. Richard III is playing through to Saturday 15 February, and showing concurrently, is Taming of the Shrew, which runs to Friday 14 February. With free entry for children 12 and under, it’s the perfect summer night out for families as well as adults, so grab your tickets and be part of the magic that is Shakespeare in the Park 2025! pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on

Lena Middlemiss, Isabella Pezza, Micha Hitching, Monica Jones and Kimberly Barker

ERA OF EXPECTATION FROM $57,980 +ORC

• New i-Cockpit with 21’’ panoramic display

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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.

OUR SPONSORSHIP FAMILY

Sunsetter vibes sparked as Devonport shone in the sunshine

The whole of Devonport buzzed and shone as it came alive on Saturday 18 January for the inaugural Sunsetter Food, Wine, Music and Cocktail Festival based at its new seaside location, Windsor Reserve. The sun and vibes were out in force as the event kicked off at 1pm and went through to the beautiful sunset across the water at 9pm, with thousands of locals and visitors alike enjoying the brilliant festival atmosphere. Some of the best international and local acts, wineries and breweries, spirits and cocktails, popular eateries and food vendors, and spectacular DJs and performers all collaborated to provide this fantastic event. It was wonderful to see so many local businesses enjoying the success of the event, too, both inside the designated festival area and outside on the streets and in the many hospitality venues of Devonport before, during and after the event itself. Adam Bennett and his team at Highlife Entertainment worked tirelessly to secure this stunning location and successfully delivered a quality boutique festival that was immaculately well-run and well-attended, a sell-out success that benefitted both our community and its businesses. Huge thanks and congratulations go to Adam and his team – they did themselves and our local community so very proud! Bring on Sunsetter 2026!

Photos credit: Norrie Montgommery

Hannah Pletherbridge and Kelly Mclintock Jo Bennett and Michaiah Simmons

Yvie Harvie Salter and Daryl Habraken

Anna Trubuhovich, Catherine Stone and Eliza Jo

Jared and Casey Mattheus Desiree Marcellino

Simon Rowell and partner Vedran and Ina Babic

Exceptional

Chaos, comedy and opera collide in Così at The PumpHouse

With five Auckland Community Theatre Trust (ACTT) award nominations for their recent hit Call Girls, Phoenix Theatre is returning to The PumpHouse stage with the Australian classic comedy, Così.

Così tells the story of Lewis, a first-time director, who must manage a quirky group of psychiatric patients as they attempt to stage Mozart’s Così Fan Tutte, despite their complete lack of acting experience, singing ability, or knowledge of Italian. Utter chaos and comedy do indeed collide!

While the characters in the play may not have the skills to pull off an opera, the eleven-strong cast from the Shore and across Auckland have experience and talent in spades as they prepare to bring Così to life with sparkling brilliance. This production proves that even in the most unlikely places, music and art have the power to transform.

Inspired by playwright Louis Nowra's own experience directing a play at Melbourne’s Plenty Mental Hospital in 1971, Così unfolds against the backdrop of Vietnam War protests, while theatrical chaos brews inside the facility.

Also the basis for the 1996 film starring Toni Collette and Rachel Griffiths, Così is theatre at its funniest and most poignant and is utterly irresistible. Friendship, love and a dash of opera - what could possibly go wrong?

Così runs from Thurs 20 to Sat 29 March (including three matinees) at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna. Tickets are available at pumphouse.co.nz/cosi

For a limited time only, apply discount code MOZART for early-bird prices for Channel Mag readers.

Cherry (Amy Arnold) and Doug (Nat Churches)

Julie (Louisa Hutchinson), Lucy (Grace Rhynd), Doug (Nat Churches), Henry (Richard McFadgen) and Ruth (Christina Cie)

Zac (Paco Galvez)

Lewis (Aidan Allen)

Takapuna’s summer of Shakespeare: Classic plays, modern takes

This summer, Shoreside Theatre has shaken things up for the 29th season of Auckland’s only outdoor Shakespeare experience. Proudly rooted in the North Shore community, audiences have been enjoying two fresh takes on Shakespeare: The Taming of the Shrew with an all-femaleidentifying cast, and Richard III re-imagined as a gritty postwar gang drama.

Mags Delaney-Moffatt has returned to direct The Taming of the Shrew, bringing a bold twist to the classic comedy. “I’ve always thought Kate was hard done by,” Mags says. For those unfamiliar, Kate (or Katherina) is the fiery lead character whose refusal to conform to societal expectations drives much of the play's action. Traditionally, the story focuses on taming her spirit to fit within strict gender roles. But Mags had a different vision. “With an all-female cast, we’re flipping the narrative. Instead of focusing on Kate’s subjugation, it becomes a love story filled with comedy, highlighting the absurdity of gender roles.”

The second show of the season, Richard III, directed by Catherine Boniface, moves Shakespeare’s tale of ambition and betrayal to post-war London’s gangland scene. Inspired by reallife gangs like the Sabini Gang and the Kray brothers, Boniface’s version captures the raw ambition and family betrayals that mirror Richard’s infamous rise to power.

For nearly three decades, Auckland Shakespeare in the Park has been a North Shore summer tradition, offering unforgettable performances under the stars. This year, Shoreside Theatre has made it even easier for everyone to experience the magic with free tickets for children 12 and under, plus 'Pay What You Can' nights and indoor matinees, perfect for those who find the outdoor amphitheatre less accessible.

“Shakespeare’s stories are timeless, but they don’t have to stay trapped in the past,” Mags said. “Our goal is to make them engaging, fresh and fun for everyone.” With plenty of laughs, disguises, schemes and a touch of romance in The Taming of the Shrew, alongside high-stakes drama in Richard III, this year’s season continues to deliver something special for everyone.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious, Auckland Shakespeare in the Park 2025 invites you to experience the Bard like never before – under the stars or in the comfort of an indoor theatre. With two more weeks left to catch these inventive performances, now’s the perfect time to join the tradition and be part of the magic.

Shakespeare in the Park continues at The PumpHouse until 15 February 2025. Tickets from pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on

Richard lll

The Taming of the Shrew

By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder

Why is getting a good night’s sleep so difficult these days, and what can we do about it?

The first big reason is biology.

Your sleep-wake cycle is called the circadian rhythm and is controlled by an internal clock in your brain. This is a simplified answer as this process requires no less than 30 pathways to all be in balance with each other. But for most people, this clock works in sync with natural light; it makes you feel awake during the day and sleepy at night. However, things like artificial light and modern routines (like staying up late on screens or working odd hours) can confuse this system. When your brain thinks it’s still 'daytime', it delays the production of melatonin, the hormone that signals your body it’s time to sleep.

Another issue is stress and mental overload. When you’re busy thinking about work, personal problems or other responsibilities, your brain stays active even when your body is tired. Stress causes the release of cortisol, a hormone that helps you stay alert, which can block your ability to relax and fall asleep. This is why people who feel anxious or overwhelmed often lie awake for hours, toss and turn and awake unrefreshed.

Next is technology.

The blue light emitted by phones, laptops and TVs doesn’t just keep your brain stimulated, it also suppresses melatonin production. The more you scroll through social media or watch videos before bed, the harder it becomes for your body to recognise that it’s time to wind down.

Lifestyle habits can also get in the way.

Things like consuming caffeine or sugar late in the day, eating rich curries, having inconsistent sleep schedules, or not getting enough physical activity can throw off your body’s natural rhythm. Even sleeping in too much on weekends can disrupt your weekday sleep patterns, creating something called 'social jet lag'.

Pain, inflammation and physical discomfort, which affect 30% of our population, impact sleep hormones and processes, interfering with our ability to fall into deep restorative sleep, resulting in us constantly hovering in a lighter, easily to wake state.

Finally, your sleep environment matters more than you might think.

Factors like noise, light, temperature or an uncomfortable mattress can make it harder for your brain to relax fully. If your bedroom isn’t set up to be a calm, quiet space, it could be working against you.

In short, getting a good night’s sleep is tough because our modern life decisions collide with our physical ailments, restrictions and the demands we put on these precious bodies of ours.

To fix it, you must create a consistent sleep schedule, reduce screen time before bed, and improve your sleep environment, like keeping your room dark and cool.

We must also support ourselves physically and mentally with nourishing foods, balanced meals, regular eating times and adequate hydration, and ascertain what level of support

our nervous systems need, then select expert-level sleep support supplements which are formulated based on science and decades of experience. Please do not opt for cheap one-hit wonders from the supplement section. You can’t activate GABA, facilitate delta sleep, get eight hours of perfect sleep architecture and wake ready to bounce out of bed with just one supplement you are trying to save money on. Your body doesn’t work that way - we look after our cars better! Sleep isn’t just about rest - it’s when your brain processes information, your body repairs itself, and you recharge for the next day. So prioritising it really does pay off!

Sleep is a complicated business. Please reach out to the team of sleep experts at SleepDrops. They will help you assess your individual sleep needs and come up with a viable supplement programme that suits your sleep needs, your budget and your personality.

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.

News from The PumpHouse from James Bell

The Shakespeare season has officially kicked off the year with a bang!

Shoreside Theatre’s electrifying interpretations of The Taming of the Shrew and Richard III have garnered rave reviews from critics and audiences alike and set the tone for an exciting season ahead.

If you haven’t experienced Auckland Shakespeare in the Park before, there is still time. The shows continue until 15 February in the idyllic PumpHouse Amphitheatre (and move indoors if the weather is bad).

In a wonderful initiative to inspire the next generation of Shakespeare lovers, Shoreside Theatre offers free tickets for under-12s when accompanied by an adult. Excellent mahi from the team, ensuring theatre remains accessible to young audiences.

We’re thrilled to welcome back UK-based actor and improv tutor Jeff Sleeman for two improv workshops. Jeff’s vast experience spans teaching weekly classes, leading sessions at health and wellbeing events, working with cruise ship passengers, and even training doctors to refine their interpersonal skills. These 'pay what you can' workshops are a fantastic opportunity to unleash your creativity and have some fun - don’t miss out!

Auckland Pride audiences are in for a treat with Pretty Legal, a bittersweet and acerbically clever drama set in the aftermath of the marriage equality bill’s passing. The story follows law firm colleagues Olivia and Katrina as they navigate their unconventional relationships, love and loss in the John Key era. With sharp wit and heartfelt moments, Pretty Legal promises to be a powerful exploration of resilience and connection.

Discover Pupukemoana returns to Killarney Park this month - a free family event by Pupuke Birdsong Project and Takapuna North Community Trust to raise awareness of the ecology and threats to Lake Pupuke. Along with guided kayaking and snorkelling tours, we’ll be hosting tours of The PumpHouse. Come and learn all the spooky secrets of the backstage spaces.

Finishing off the month, prepare for scandal, laughter and unexpected twists with a live improvised soap opera! Six characters, three couples and one potluck dinner set the stage for a smorgasbord of humanity. Talented improv comedians will serve up delicious morsels of love, betrayal and hilarity - all cooked up on the spot!

James Bell

DEPOT with Amy Saunders

DEPOT Te Whare Toi, Devonport

Welcome to 2025, and with it another big year ahead for all things creative at Depot! Depot Artspace has already reopened for the year, and Depot Sound is gearing up to reopen the studio doors later this month.

Depot Artspace is excited to host two exhibitions at our 28 Clarence Street galleries in February, featuring the abstract impressionist paintings of Kate Serebrianskaia in Beyond the Surface and multidisciplinary artist Mei Ling Lee’s sculptural installations in Personal Archive M59

Be sure to check out depot.org.nz for more information, and keep an eye on our website and socials for the return of our First Thursdays series in March!

Depot - 3 Victoria Road The first exhibition of 2025 is a group show featuring our local studio artists. Studio D3: Momentum is one not to be missed! Visitors can expect to see a range of creative mediums on display, surrounded by the beautiful architecture of this heritage building.

Depot Shop | Toi Toa Visitors can also browse the Depot Shop | Toi Toa collection at 3 Victoria Road, including our Maker of the Month for February - Kitchen Artefacts. Kitchen Artefacts is the shared creative enterprise of the very talented Tom Muir and Louise Armstrong, who live in the beautiful Waikato region. All their wares are made of salvaged native timber that has been ethically sourced from around New Zealand. Self-described as 'heritage cookware', each piece is unique and designed to function well for generations.

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!

Pretty Legal

The Taming of the Shrew

Richard III

OMD and Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey to headline Auckland Sounds at North Shore’s Eventfinda Stadium this month

Auckland Sounds brings its best '80s line-up yet to Eventfinda Stadium in Wairau Valley on Thursday 27 February, with Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD), Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Jon Stevens, Diesel, and The Narcs with Kim Willoughby set to rock the night away! These artists dominated the charts in the '80s, racking up a staggering 23 NZ Top 20 hits between them.

The one-night festival at Eventfinda Stadium (formerly North Shore Events Centre) is set to sell out. A limited number of final release tickets are available, with VIP seated and GA standing options selling fast. Choose your tickets at plus1.co.nz

Auckland Sounds promoter Kurt Shanks says, “Last year, Auckland Sounds on the North Shore was a fantastic night headlined by The Human League. We can’t wait to do it all again this month, with UK stars OMD and Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey headlining.

"The feedback from North Shore’s '80s music lovers is that they're stoked that top bands are performing on the Shore for a change instead of across the bridge. If Auckland Sounds has another great turn-out this February, we’ll be back in 2026 to lock in Auckland Sounds as a Shore thing."

Andy McCluskey from Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), says, “Finally, after nearly 40 years, we are so excited to be able to say that we are going to play live again in New Zealand. We cannot wait! As it’s been such a long time we will be playing every single one of our hits.”

OMD (UK) have sold over 40 million albums. Fans, get ready to dance away to

their classic hits like If You Leave, Enola Gay, (Forever) Live and Die, Electricity, Joan Of Arc (Maid Of Orleans), We Love You and many more.

The feedback from North Shore’s '80s music lovers is that they're stoked that top bands are performing on the Shore for a change instead of across the bridge.

Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey (UK) will once again perform in New Zealand, including all the Thompson Twins hits we love to sing along to: Hold Me Now, Doctor Doctor, King For A Day, Love On Your Side, Lay Your Hands On Me, and many more. It has been a long 39-year wait since the Thompson Twins’ unforgettable Western Springs Stadium concert in 1986.

Australian-based Kiwi rocker Jon Stevens brings his band’s acclaimed Noiseworks and INXS collection to Auckland Sounds this year. Get ready to enjoy hearing INXS gems like Need You Tonight, New Sensation, Never Tear Us Apart, Devil Inside and many more, as well as Noiseworks smash hits like Take Me Back, Touch, No Lies and Hot Chilli Woman.

Diesel (Australia) holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealand fans, thanks to his string of hits here, including Tip Of My Tongue, Come To Me and Don’t Need Love.

Kiwi favourites The Narcs first made waves with iconic tracks such as Over My Head, Stay Away and No Turning Back. The hits kept on flowing with Heart and Soul, Lazy Susan, Diamonds on China and Abandoned by Love.

AUCKLAND SOUNDS, Thursday 27 February 2025, Eventfinda Stadium (formerly North Shore Events Centre), from 5pm. Featuring a superb international lineup, along with an array of bar facilities and food vendors.

Tickets at plus1.co.nz

Tom Bailey Diesel OMD

By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna

Sending something overseas?

Pack & Send Takapuna is your one-stop shop for all your international packaging and freight needs. When you need to send overseas to any country, you can rely on Pack & Send's experience to package it and get it delivered safely.

Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna have a 'no limits' approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems, from sensitive documents to difficult, fragile and valuable items to send. "Many of the items we have dealt with are considered too difficult for general freight," says Jeremy.

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

Many of these items are valuable, so Pack & Send customers can use their Freight Plus Warranty to cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind - something not generally available when freighting goods of high value.

For those really delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack & Send can use its state-of-the-art 'Foam in Place' packaging system, which forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.

"We also produce custom-made boxes to any size or shape," adds Jeremy. "Because we treat each consignment as unique, designing packaging and the freight solutions to suit, we're finding that more and more people benefit from our services.”

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

Pack & Send provides service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything anywhere and take care of the hassles.

Pack & Send Takapuna open Mon – Sat, located at 77 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna with exclusive and convenient parking outside. Ph 486 3355 or email takapuna@packsend.co.nz and let them make sending easy.

Pack & Send Takapuna

77 Barry’s Point Rd, Takapuna

Phone: 09 486 3355

Email: takapuna@packsend.co.nz

www.packsend.co.nz

(09) 486 3355

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

Selling your home in Auckland in 2025: Key insights

The Auckland property market in 2025 presents both opportunities and challenges for homeowners looking to sell. With evolving buyer preferences and a dynamic market, sellers must adopt a strategic approach to maximise their success.

1. Pricing for the market: Auckland’s real estate market remains competitive, with fluctuations driven by interest rates, population growth and housing supply. Accurate pricing is crucial to attract buyers. Work with a local real estate agent to analyse comparable sales and position your property effectively.

2. Highlight unique features: Buyers in 2025 are looking for value and functionality. Emphasise standout features like proximity to public transport, energy-efficient upgrades or outdoor living spaces that suit Auckland’s lifestyle. Properties with sustainable and eco-friendly elements, such as solar panels or water-saving systems, are particularly appealing.

3. Invest in presentation: Staging your home is essential to create a strong first impression. Neutral decor, decluttering and professional photography can help your property stand out online. Virtual tours and drone footage showcasing Auckland’s iconic views can further captivate potential buyers.

4. Leverage local demand: With continued demand from both local and international buyers, marketing your home across multiple platforms, including social media, is key.

By focusing on pricing, presentation and buyer needs, you can navigate Auckland’s market successfully in 2025.

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

@ Bayleys Takapuna

16 Killarney Street, Takapuna

Martin Cooper for brekkie, Olympic champions for lunch, and wine tasting in the evening

The North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust is 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, charity lunches and wine tasting!

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 who penned, ‘The North Shore… what a great place to live’.

Martin is a superb speaker and successful businessman 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.

BEN Breakfast – Tuesday 18 February, from 7am Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna Bookings at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz

WINE TASTING WITH A TWISTThursday 6 March, 6pm

North Harbour Club membership means there are always interesting events to look forward to on the horizon; an evening of 'Wine Tasting with a Twist' in Takapuna is an example. 'Vino Voyage' being held at First Glass in Takapuna will ignite your senses as well as test your knowledge. It will be fun and competitive, with ‘blind’ tasting of exceptional wines from around the world.

An entry fee of $40 for members and $55 for non-members includes wine on arrival, tastings and nibbles, with prizes up for grabs.

This is a team event - you book individually and will be allocated to a team on the night.

A great opportunity for networking, and if you are new, a chance to find out what the North Harbour Club is all about.

The event is hosted by the club’s Next Sponsors and starts from 5.30pm with tasting starting 6pm sharp.

Vino Voyage – Thursday 6 March, from 5.30pm First Glass Wines & Spirits, Takapuna 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 was 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. Ten 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

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 medalists! 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.

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

Alicia Hoskin Cameron Gray Jo Aleh Molly Meech Olivia McTaggart Tara Vaughan

Martin Cooper

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

Devon on the Wharf

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

Flying Rickshaw

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

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.

Opening hours: Tues-Fri 4pm-late Saturday & Sunday 10am-late 09 446 6444 hello@vondel.co.nz www.vondel.co.nz instagram Instagram @vondel_akl facebook facebook.com/vondelakl

Portofino Devonport

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

Signal Hill

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

Stone Oven

Iconic cafe in the heart of the village for over 20 years. 5 Clarence Street.

Taupo Indian Cuisine

The essence of Indian hospitality, flavours and culture. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546. taupoindian.co.nz

The Kestrel

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

The Next Station Chinese Cuisine

Hong Kong and Cantonese-style Chinese cuisine for eat-in and takeaways.

41 Victoria Road. 09 200 0683

The Patriot (Pub)

14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz

Vic Road 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

Daily Bread

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

Hauraki Social Club

NEW locally owned and operated bar and eatery. Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz

Sheppards Corner

Authentic TexMex - a slice of Texas on the North Shore. 131 Lake Road, Belmont. 09 447 4377. sheppardsnz.com

XO Takapuna

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

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

Burger Burger

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

Catch 21 Eatery

Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood.

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

Centro Café 447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277

Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta

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

El Humero

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

Florrie McGreals Irish Pub

138 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz

Flourish Café

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

French Rendez-Vous

French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites.

2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site

Hanoi Haven Vietnamese cuisine.

40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz

Hong's Korean Kitchen

Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz

Hops & Claret Drinkery

136 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. hopsandclaret.co.nz

Nanam

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

Regatta Bar & Eatery

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

Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina

The best of California's vibrant coast and LA street scene. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna Sakebar Nippon

Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style).

32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz

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

Tok Tok Kitchen

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

Tokyo Bay

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

Wok 'n Noodle

Asian restaurant - tasty, nutritious food cooked right in front of you.

1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com

Birkenhead

Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano

13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz

Birkenhead Brewing Company

17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi

Blitza Pizza

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

Burrito House

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

Chef Rasa Sayang

Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Road. 09 419 9788

DIT

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

Fika With Me

Cosy café serving funky, flavourful Findian-inspired food. 5 Birkenhead Avenue. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme

Jose's Cantina

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

Moxie Restaurant

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

Mulan Malaysian Restaurant

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

Primerose Thai Cuisine

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

Real Burger

30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site

Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant

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

Thai Yum Food Hut

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

The Curry Master

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

TAKAPUNA

Flourish Café

Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.

19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266

instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz

facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz

Centro

TAKAPUNA

Catch 21 Eatery

Welcome to our 'home away from home' cosy haven, where smiles abound with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine. Each customer becomes part of our extended family, savouring not only the taste of our offerings but also the heartfelt care that accompanies every visit. Step into our café and let us wrap you in a comforting embrace of hospitality and flavours that delight the senses.

Mon-Sun, 7am-3pm. No surcharge on public holidays

447a Lake Road, Takapuna 09 200 2277 centroauckland@gmail.com facebook @centrotakapuna instagram @centrotakapuna

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

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

Shop 8/33 Hurstmere Road 09 484 0005 catch21.co.nz/menu

TAKAPUNA

The Good Home

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

Milford

Anokha Indian Restaurant

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

Cave À Vin

146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz

Khu Khu Eatery

100% vegan and Thai-inspired restaurant.

91 Kitchener Road. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz

La Mexicana

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

Monthien Thai Restaurant

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

Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford

212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz

PYM's of Milford

Popular neighbourhood Milford village bar & eatery. 154 Kitchener Rd. pymsofmilford.com

Stanley Avenue

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

Talay Thai Restaurant

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

The Hub Milford Bar & Grill

145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz

Tokki

Modern Korean restaurant. 87 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz

The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant 7 Milford Road. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz

Northcote Point

The Engine Room

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

Clarence Rd Eatery

124 Queen Street. 09 480 9600. clarencerdeatery.nz

Northcote Tavern

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

East Coast Bays

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

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

El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery

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

Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar

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

Paper Moon

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

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

Wairau Valley

San Marco Trattoria & Bar

231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley. 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz

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.

136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330 hello@hopsandclaret.co.nz hopsandclaret.co.nz facebook @HopsandClaret

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!

Urban Wine Walk February 22nd with Petal & Stem.

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

Tok Tok

Tokyo Bay

French Rendez-Vous

Hanoi Haven

Discover the Tok Tok experience in Takapuna. Unwind, indulge and savour the vibrant flavours of modern Asian fusion at Tok Tok Takapuna. From fresh, bold dishes to creative cocktails, every bite is a celebration, with vegetarian, vegan and GF options available. Perfect for date nights, group gatherings and those unforgettable moments. Book your table today and taste the extraordinary!

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.

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

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.

Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

1/129 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna. 09 489 3988, toktokkitchen@gmail.com, toktok.co.nz facebook toktakapuna

tokyobay.co.nz facebook tokyobaytakapuna

Opening hours: Mon 5pm-late, Tues-Sun 12pm-late

Nanam

Modern Asian cuisine takes you on a journey through the vibrant flavours of the Philippines, blending traditional recipes with innovative techniques. Our award-winning menu features Asian- and Spanish-inspired tapas, signature dishes, carefully curated wines and cocktails, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Recognised in Metro Top 50 and NZ’s 100 Best Restaurants by Cuisine, Nanam is proud to be a neighbourhood favourite. Don’t miss our summer lunch special for just $35!

178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 488 9976, nanam.co.nz nanam.reservation@gmail.com

Lunch: Wed–Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm

Dinner: Tues–Sat, 5pm-10pm Closed Sun/Mon

Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009 facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna

TAKAPUNA

40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz

Open 7 days, 11am to late.

Cousin Scott's

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.

22 The Promenade, Takapuna info@takapunabeachcafe.co.nz takapunabeachcafe.co.nz @takapunabeachcafe

TAKAPUNA

TAKAPUNA

WAIRAUVALLEY

San Marco Trattoria & Bar

Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good - benvenuti!

Wed-Fri 11am-Late; Sat-Sun 10am-Late. Happy hour 3-7pm.

Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz facebook instagram @sanmarcoauckland

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

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

Waygu short rib And market fish

#Gramworthy

Our round up of posts on IG from local hair salons that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Sarah-Lee from @wabisabisalonnz

Sarah-Lee Eastwood is the creative director at Wabi Sabi, a much-loved Northcote hair salon. She grew up on a small farm where she developed a deep appreciation for animals, sustainability and creativity. “I’ve always loved art and crafts, and moving out of home at an early age gave me the drive to find my sense of purpose. It also allowed me to connect with incredible people who supported and inspired my journey." A career in hairdressing became the perfect outlet for Sarah-Lee’s creativity, love of connecting with others, and passion for helping people feel good. Spending time in Melbourne was particularly formative; she gained invaluable skills and insights that shaped her as a stylist. Now, she feels at home on the Shore, focusing on cruelty-free practices and creating positive experiences for both people and the planet. Sarah-Lee talks business, social media and all things Wabi Sabi.

Channel Mag: Tell readers a little bit about your salon and how it came about…

Sarah-Lee Eastwood: Wabi Sabi was born out of a passion for creating beautiful, healthy and sustainable hair in a judgement-free environment. The philosophy of Wabi Sabi is finding beauty in imperfection; it’s shaped our space into one where individuality and wellbeing is embraced. I started the salon five and a half years ago when I moved back to New Zealand, settling on the Shore, which quickly felt like home thanks to the amazing community. I also wanted to create a supportive and nurturing environment for stylists with mental health focus at the forefront of values, where they can thrive both personally and professionally while building a community for clients to feel comfortable, cared for, and enjoy an incredible experience alongside great hair. Our team is dedicated to creating not just beautiful hair, but a holistic, pampering experience where clients feel nurtured, heard and cared for.

Is Instagram and TikTok a source of inspiration for you? Who do you recommend following and why?

I definitely use Instagram a lot as a source of inspiration, though I’ve struggled to fully embrace TikTok. Social media is a great tool, but our biggest inspiration always comes from our clients. We love following them to see what they’re up to and celebrate their individuality. We also like to follow accounts, such as Kevin Murphy, that align with our values that prioritise sustainability and ethical beauty. We also love following other like-minded businesses in our industry in New Zealand, and connecting with them. We are all about community and collaboration over competition. While having a strong presence on platforms like Instagram is important, we’re always mindful to keep it real. We focus on showing people what to genuinely expect from us while staying true to our values of authenticity and individuality.

Which other local businesses do social media well?

We follow a variety of local businesses on social media, some that align with the beauty industry and others that don’t so much. Community and collaboration are at the heart of what we do, and we’re lucky to be surrounded by some incredible local businesses at Woodside. Moreno Cafe, Unity Studios and Little Lato are great examples of community-focused brands near us that genuinely care about their customers and create amazing experiences. We love following and supporting them because they share our values and contribute so much to our local area and are the ultimate business neighbours.

What’s next for your business?

At Wabi Sabi it’s all about our clients. We want to elevate our client experience even more, introduce new pampering services, while ensuring each visit feels special and supporting our clients in their healthy hair journeys. This year, our focus is on growing our epic team and expanding our skills and our client experience. I’m passionate about providing my team with continuous education, ensuring they have the best tools to thrive in their careers and offer the best experience for our clients. At the same time, I’m dedicated to supporting them in achieving a balanced work-life dynamic, so they can have long-term success. Personally, after the challenges of the last few years, I’m also focusing on finding balance in my own life, nurturing myself alongside my business and team to ensure we all grow together. It's important to focus on our team's wellbeing so our cups are full and able to give our clients the best experience they have ever had.

29E Woodside Ave, Northcote, Auckland • wabisabisalon.co.nz

We love a sustainable salon, and Oblique’s tailored approach uses products they trust and recommend.

@oblique_hair_spa

Sarah-Lee Eastwood

Extend your summer in Takapuna

Your holiday doesn’t have to be over just because you’re back at work! Summer is still in full swing here in Takapuna. With sunny days, long warm nights, and a heap of interesting activities to do close to home, grab your friends and family and keep the summer vibes rolling.

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

Hit the beach

Voted one of Auckland’s favourite beaches, Takapuna Beach is the place to go for fun in the sun.

With soft white sand, warm glistening water, and a lush grassy reserve with a super-cool playground for the kids, there’s no better place to relax, unwind and soak up the rays. Pack a picnic, grab an ice cream, and enjoy these spectacular summer days at Takapuna Beach.

Take to the water

Nothing beats a refreshing dip in the ocean on a hot day, and Takapuna Beach is a safe and stunning swimming beach. It’s also the perfect spot for some on-the-water activities. Try something new and take a Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) lesson with Girls Get Out There. They’ll show you all the basic SUP skills so you can paddle safely and confidently. Or you could head down to Lake Pupuke and enjoy a windsurfing lesson with the team at Madloop. There are so many other fun ways to cruise the water in Takapuna, including kayaking, boating or a good old ocean swim.

Dine outdoors

With stunning sea views, sunshine and fresh air, outdoor dining in Takapuna is a real pleasure. There’s a huge array of dining options, with bars and restaurants covering all types of cuisines. Whether it’s a quick snack to go with a bevvy in the sun, a leisurely lunch or a full dining experience, come down after work or on your day off and treat your taste buds to some fine Takapuna hospitality.

Shop ‘til you drop

For high-end boutique shopping, look no further than Hurstmere Road. Take a wander and enjoy the refreshing sea air while getting your fashion fix. Or if you want to cool down a little, head to the air-conditioned Shore City shopping centre for a one-stop shopping experience with over 50 stores conveniently located under one roof.

Use your legs

Takapuna has no shortage of walking tracks for your weekend workout. And if you want to get in a bit of exercise for your furry friends too, why not organise a dog-walking date at Takapuna Beach? Your canine mates will love frolicking in the waves and chasing sticks in the sand. Or get your pedal power on and enjoy the sights of Takapuna from your bike. Cruise down to Devonport for the afternoon along the picturesque Takapuna to Devonport path.

For more information on all the places to eat, drink, shop, entertain and treat yourself this summer, check out our full business directory on our website, as well as all the awesome places to go and things to do in Takapuna: ilovetakapuna.co.nz.

GOLD SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our

Takapuna Beach Playground

Takapuna Beach

Source - Auckland Council

Tokyo Bay, The Strand

Check out these beachside treats in Takapuna!

Nothing beats a cold treat on a hot day, and Takapuna has all the best frozen food joints in Auckland. So while you’re out enjoying the local sights, head down to Hurstmere Road and The Promenade – Takapuna’s sweet treat central, and grab a toothsome delight from these excellent outlets.

Mövenpick

Superstar Swiss ice cream maker, Mövenpick is a community favourite, and people come from all over the North Shore to get a cone. It’s rocking a mouthwatering selection of natural ice creams and sorbets served in freshly baked waffle cones, with tempting flavours including macadamia dulce de leche and tiramisu.

Duck Island Ice Cream

We’re also lucky enough to have Waikatobred ice cream extraordinaire Duck Island Ice Cream. Yes, it’s got scoops, but the real drawcard is the old-school ice cream sandwiches and milkshakes. Duck Island is also vegan-friendly, with a range of delectable plant-based options like lemon sorbet and coconut chocolate.

Takapuna Beach Café

And if you’re down by the beach, you can’t miss this one – good chance you’ll see a queue at the ice cream window. Hit up treasured local Takapuna Beach Café for gelato, smoothies, iced drinks and fresh juices. We highly recommend the decadent and divine affogato – an Italian coffee-based dessert.

Kiwiyo: Self-Serve Frozen Yoghurt

If you’re a fan of frozen yoghurt or going nuts on the pick ’n’ mix, then Kiwiyo SelfServe Frozen Yoghurt is for you. You’ll have difficulty choosing whether to go with waffles and pancakes, sorbets and smoothies, or sundaes and shakes. Chuck it all in a cup, sized for your appetite, and pay by weight at the end.

Tank

Kiwi company Tank has been doing the best smoothies and juices since way back when, and we’ve got our own Tank at Shore City Shopping Centre. With over 20 smoothie varieties and ten types of juices, you really are spoilt for choice. This treat is super yummy and super healthy.

Starbucks

Perennial favourite Starbucks is worth checking out for a range of delicious cold beverages – juices, cold coffees, iced teas and chocolates, special featured drinks and of course the famous Starbucks frappuccinos. Try the strawberry açaí lemonade – it’s so good.

Like and follow @ilovetakapuna on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with all things Takapuna!

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

Mövenpick – 33-45 Hurstmere Rd

Duck Island – Shop 3/73 Hurstmere Rd

Takapuna Beach Cafe – 22 The Promenade

KiwiYo – 84 Hurstmere Rd

Tank – Shore City Shopping Centre and Hurstmere Rd

Starbucks – 50 Hurstmere Rd

The all new BMW X3 has arrived. Test drive now at Continental Cars BMW.

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Myths and facts, and red flags about haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are often the butt of jokes, but for many, they’re no laughing matter. These swollen cushions in the rectal area can cause discomfort, itching and bleeding – but they’re more common than you might think. Let’s bust some myths, share some facts and highlight red flags you shouldn’t ignore.

Myths and facts:

Myth: Haemorrhoids only affect older people.

Fact: Haemorrhoids can affect anyone, regardless of age. While more common in middle age and beyond, factors like constipation, pregnancy or heavy lifting can lead to haemorrhoids at any age.

Myth: Spicy food causes haemorrhoids.

Fact: Spicy food may irritate your digestive tract, but it doesn’t directly cause haemorrhoids. The real culprits? Chronic constipation, prolonged sitting and straining during bowel movements.

Myth: Surgery is the only solution.

Fact: Most haemorrhoids improve with lifestyle changes like a highfibre diet, proper hydration and over-the-counter treatments. Surgery is only needed in severe cases and there are numerous options that can be offered by a colorectal surgeon.

Red flag symptoms:

While haemorrhoids are usually harmless, some symptoms warrant a visit to your doctor:

• Persistent bleeding: Bright red blood during bowel movements can indicate haemorrhoids, but ongoing or heavy bleeding could signal

other conditions like anal fissures or colorectal cancer.

• Severe pain or swelling: Extreme discomfort may suggest a thrombosed haemorrhoid or fissure, which might need medical intervention.

• Changes in bowel habits: If you experience unexplained diarrhoea, constipation or weight loss, it’s time to see a doctor.

Remember, haemorrhoids are nothing to be embarrassed about. If in doubt, seek professional advice – it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your bottom line!

At Waitemata Endoscopy, we can support you to take a proactive approach to bowel issues and can facilitate rapid access for a gastroscopy or colonoscopy.

Mr Andrew Herd

General and Colorectal Surgeon and Endoscopist

Waitemata Endoscopy

are dedicated to exceptional patient care

WE has been serving the Waitematā community for over 17 years, offering increased access to a group of experienced Surgeons and Gastroenterologists

Appointments are available within 7 working days for most standard Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy procedures by matching you with the availability of our Specialists*

WE have you covered from 'Top to Bottom'

Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self-refer at: www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/referrals

Mr Andrew Herd General and Colorectal Surgeon & Endoscopist

Christine Young Dame Julie Chapman Founding charities on passion

North Shore based Dame Julie Chapman was awarded a DNZM in this year’s New Year’s Honours for “services to children and the community.” That standard statement scarcely seems to do justice to what she has achieved. Christine Young talks to Dame Julie about her achievements, her background and what drives her in her work for children and animals.

Dame Julie is the founder and driving force behind two distinct charities, though both centre around the wellbeing of families under stress. KidsCan, founded in 2005, aims to ensure all children have the opportunity to succeed in education; Pet Refuge was founded eight years ago so that pets are able to be cared for as families seek refuge from violence.

Dame Julie says her motivation in each is “about helping people and wanting to make a difference for people less fortunate.” She attributes her approach to her life and work to her parents, Kenneth and Alice, who were “very community-minded. Dad was a DOC [Department of Conservation] ranger, and mum was involved in the church.” Being involved in the community “was part of my growing up.” she says, adding that as a child she “used to rescue anything that needed rescuing. We had cats, dogs, a horse, birds, ducks. Especially cats.” She retains a special fondness for cats. But more of her collection of pets later.

Julie grew up on the Shore, in Glenfield, before moving to a bush block in Oratia that was clearly formative in her love of animals. Once she finished school and went flatting, she moved back to the Shore, where KidsCan is based.

KidsCan now supports over 70,000 children in more than 1,100 schools and 200 early childhood centres, and is the recent recipient of a two-year government grant to provide food for an additional 10,000 underfive-year-olds. It provides children living in poverty with the food, footwear and clothing they need to ensure they can attend and succeed at school. The charity was founded, Julie says, after hearing media reports about how kids did not have what they needed to start the school year. “I found that interesting and unfair.” A self-described ideas person, who says that even now her team “is there to moderate my crazy ideas and to help bring through those with great return,” she looked at

By

how she could help.

Dame Julie’s ideas are based on research, and her first step to forming KidsCan was to see if there was a charity that addressed material hardship. She surveyed 80 low decile schools, and “got an amazing response around the need for warm clothing, shoes and food and that the lack of these was a major barrier to access to education.”

“I was brought up [with the ethos] that with education comes opportunity. I wanted to ensure that all children had the basic essentials to access that opportunity.”

KidsCan started by providing raincoats, footwear and basic food products to children from 40 schools around New Zealand. She says the situation now is as bad as it has ever been for many families. “Nutritional and material hardship have got worse over the last few years. I wouldn’t have thought that 21 years later I would be trying to work out how to support the 70-plus schools on the waiting list, and another 172 on the early childhood centre waiting list.”

Similar to the school programme, the KidsCan early childhood centre programme

Dame Julie with Mini, the baby foal born while her mum was in Pet Refuge care

provides “food, jackets, shoes, gumboots and headlice treatments.” While she’s grateful for the grant to supply food to an additional 10,000 under-fives, she’s now trying to work out how to raise the funds to offer the full KidsCan programme to these children.

Unlike charities that rely largely on grant funding and donations, under Julie’s leadership KidsCan has built an impressive, diversified balance sheet. While she’s been hugely successful with one-off initiatives (like the 2009 Telethon) to raise funds, she knows that such events, while important financially and in terms of profile-raising, are not sustainable. “I learned very early on how important it is to have a diverse range of income streams,” she says. Also aware that government funding can come and go as political winds change, she ensures that such funding makes up no more than 20-25% of KidsCan’s income. Equally, “when we bring a school or early childhood centre into the programme, it’s important to [ensure we can] support it as long as they need.

“It’s not something to celebrate that we are in 1,100-plus schools, but I’m proud that we are able to create sustainable revenue streams.” These include corporate sponsorship to monthly and in-kind donations, partnership income, community fundraisers and general donations. (Full details of KidsCan operations and funding can be found in the 2023 annual report on the KidsCan website: www.kidscan.org.nz/media/rd1jczyg/ kidscan-annual-report-2023.pdf.)

Over the years, Julie has garnered considerable publicity for KidsCan, and more recently for Pet Refuge. Not all of it has been welcome; social media has amplified opportunities for people, often hiding behind false accounts, to make false and “nasty” comments about her. She even considered not accepting her honour for this reason, but she’s philosophical about the reality. “I’ve always believed you should never take criticism from people you wouldn’t take advice from,” she says. “I feel a bit sorry for people who feel the need to run down those they don't know, and I now don't pay attention to the comments.

At heart, I do the work I do because I want to help people.”

Despite rumours to the contrary, all her work with Pet Refuge is voluntary, though of course it takes time. “But I am becoming more balanced. And I have a great team of people,” – more than 40 in the fundraising and logistics teams at KidsCan, and nearly 20 at Pet Refuge, which is a 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week operation.

As well as providing shelter to a wide range of pets, Pet Refuge is part of escape plans as women and children leave the situations they find themselves in.

“I can’t do something I can’t believe in; I have to passionately believe in the cause,” says Dame Julie. A strong belief in the empowering impact of education drove KidsCan, while her love of animals drove the formation of Pet Refuge.

The purpose of Pet Refuge is “to remove a major barrier to pets and their families escaping domestic violence,” with a vision of “a New Zealand where pets and their owners don’t have to live with domestic violence.”

To those ends, Pet Refuge provides temporary shelter for pets from around New Zealand affected by domestic violence, keeping them safe while their owners escape abuse. Julie, an only child, was able to purchase the land for Pet Refuge after her parents died about six months apart in 2014.

Already heavily committed with her work as CEO and trustee of KidsCan, Julie was “looking for something to do with animals,” when a chance conversation made her aware of the need to protect and care for pets so women and children could leave violent family situations. “That was a lightbulb

moment for me,” she says.

As she did when starting KidsCan, she looked for research, and found a report (‘Pets as Pawns’, 2012) written by Women’s Refuge and SPCA that revealed “a massive gap and a huge need while families are getting their lives back on track.” In typical style, she picked up the phone and called Women’s Refuge CEO Dr Ange Jury. “She was on board immediately,” says Julie, and Pet Refuge was under way.

Pet Refuge works closely with Women’s Refuge and the New Zealand Police, the charity’s biggest referral partners. As well as providing shelter to a wide range of pets, Pet Refuge is part of escape plans as women and children leave the situations they find themselves in. As in KidsCan, her passion for the cause and her ability to advocate for it has translated into invaluable partnerships. “It comes back to believing in what I do. What motivates them to get involved is my passion and that of the team.”

Julie says that when research was undertaken in 2019, what shocked her most was the sadistic nature of how men (usually) used family pets as a means of control. She’s pleased to be able to provide a “home away from home” and care for pets traumatised by the abuse they’ve experienced or witnessed. “The goal is that the pet leaves the Pet Refuge facility in a better state than they arrive.”

Dame Julie says she is “naturally an introvert.” An ideal weekend involves “hanging out” with her husband Cain, watching movies and catching up with good friends. Oh, and spending time with her own extensive collection of pun-ily named pets; her own personal menagerie of those needing support: 13 cats, two dogs, eight goats, a steer, a budgie and a sparrow, with names like Vincent van Goat, Amy Winegoat, and Sparrowlyn Monroe.

Dame Julie has dedicated the last 20 years to channelling her beliefs and passion into building two extraordinary charities, that have had and will continue to have positive impacts on those they touch. Her DNZM is fitting recognition.

Dame Julie Chapman, founder and CEO of KidsCan

Dame Julie with a friend’s orphaned newborn lamb

HARDY'S HEALTH STORE GLENFIELD MALL

Your go-to destination for natural health and wellness products. From vitamins and supplements to skincare and herbal remedies, Hardy’s Health Stores has everything you need to support a healthy lifestyle.

Level 2, Glenfield Mall 09 443 1896

DEPOT SHOP | TOI TOA

Kitchen Artefacts is the shared creative enterprise of Tom Muir and Louise Armstrong, who live in Waikato. All their wares are made of salvaged native timber that has been ethically sourced from around New Zealand. Self-described as 'heritage cookware', each piece is unique and designed to function well for generations. 3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz depot.org.nz 10am - 4pm, Tues–Sun

THE SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

Shop with us this summer to find the perfect gifts for yourself and loved ones. FREE gift wrapping on every purchase.

15% off on all Sheepskin products! Use code SUMMER15

34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679 thesheepskinfactory.co.nz 9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays

COSI FAN TUTTE

Magnolia Pearl’s gorgeously unique and iconic tees are a firm Cosi favourite! A perfect gift for your Valentine heart

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

YARNTONS

Shop the reversible dress from Orientique - two styles in one - the perfect dress for the summer. Previously $169.95, now $119 at Yarntons.

18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011

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

WALLACE COTTON

Create a restful retreat for the height of summer with homeware designed in soft, cool tones and crafted from fine natural fabrics. Visit our Takapuna location to see and shop our beautiful collections in person. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com

BEGGS

SHORE PHOTO GIFTS

Perfect gifts for friends and family. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at shorephotogifts.co.nz

On-trend Hawaiian shirts, tees, shorts and activewear - we have your summer wardrobe sorted! Exclusively for men XL to 8XL. Style without limits. Visit our store or shop online for your perfect fit. 121 Wairau Road, North Shore 09 377 4190, beggs.co.nz Please check website for opening hours

FLORIENNE

Florienne for flowers, plants, vessels and vases and good summer vibes. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz

CRAVEHOME

This vibrant red heart-shaped ceramic vase adds a pop of colour and a touch of fun to any space! Perfect for showcasing your favourite blooms. Perfect for Valentine’s Day Gift.

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

Victoria Road, Devonport Open 11:30am – late everyday 09 445 0193 | info@signalhill.co.nz signalhill.co.nz

Frank on fads

Jeneal Rohrback talks to Channel Mag about her newly-located Pilates studio, and Pilates ‘pretenders’.

Channel Mag: How’s your new studio?

Jeneal Rohrback: We have 60+ clients a week, and classical certified Pilates requires a full-service studio. The new space is much bigger, so there’s more room around the larger apparatus, and the mat classes can spread out. We also now have a full kitchen, dressing room, bathroom and a shower for clients going to work or hitting town after a workout. We’re still in the heart of Devonport village in the old Post Office building and above the most addictive So French Café – a treat post-workout.

How important is it for Pilates teachers to be certified?

Classical Pilates qualification takes a minimum of 800 hours and up to 1,000+ hours of tear-inducing training. It involves intense workouts, one-on-one observation, taking written tests, following gruelling safety procedures and working with real clients. You can fail your apprenticeship if you’ve handled a client or the apparatus unsafely. In contrast, so-called Pilates 'pretenders' are not regulated and use teachers with no or little more than a weekend of training, working in studios crammed with substandard equipment, all of which puts people at risk. In one of the most publicised legal cases in the UK, a well-known violinist fractured her elbow and suffered serious abdominal injuries that ended her career because the reformer she was using collapsed.

What’s your feeling about the reformer workout fad?

We’re not a fan of un-certified teachers cramming as many people as they can into a room full of cheap, flimsy gear. These values don’t align with what Joseph Pilates set out to do, and in our opinion, exist only to make a quick buck. When we poke our heads into one of these classes and see a lone instructor mooching their way between

wall-to-wall reformers and clients’ bodies in unsafe positions, we cringe and stomp away, muttering, ‘Someone’s going to get hurt’.

What’s the main misconception about Pilates?

That it’s just for middle-aged women. One uncouth young man suggested on Instagram that Pilates is ‘soft’ and ‘easy’, although his language wasn't soft or easy! Ironically, for workout addicts used to grunting through reps that only affect default muscles, Pilates is extraordinarily challenging because it requires an altered mindset requiring control, centring, concentration, precision, breath and flow.

Yes, middle-aged women do Pilates, but for good reasons. Women understand that midlife can throw them some curve balls: menopause, osteoporosis, belly fat, sarcopenia, brain fog, prolapse… the list goes on. Cardio isn’t their friend anymore and probably never was. They hate sweaty, loud, and Lycra-filled gyms and want to strengthen their bodies in a systematic, curated way that gives them confidence, muscles and a laugh. Women get Pilates, but we relish the moment when men twig with Pilates because it means they’re going to be stronger (doing ten times fewer reps) and become more flexible than they’ve ever been going to the gym.

What is next for Frank Pilates?

We’d love to make classical Pilates more popular and accessible to younger people as clients or apprentices.

Upstairs in the Old Post Office building Suite 1, 10 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 6578 21 frankpilates@xtra.co.nz frankpilates.co.nz

Jeneal Rohrback

Supplying the world from the Shore Blair

McPheat and BFM® Global

We love promoting business success in Channel Mag and that is happening in spades at Birkdale-based business BFM® Global. This success has come off the back of Blair McPheat, the company owner and CEO, inventing the company's unique product as a solution for problems commonly experienced with traditional, clamped-style industrial connectors. He explains his invention as a simple case of “see a need, fill a need.” BFM® has now become an established global player, with over 60 authorised distributors and resellers selling its patented connection solution in more than 100 countries. This is a heartwarming story of a product being manufactured right here on the North Shore and being exported all over the world. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with Blair (a former head boy of Takapuna Grammar) during January at BFM®’s Birkdale factory.

How did the invention come about?

Blair McPheat: I was working with my father Forres and brother Kevin selling filtration products for Filtercorp, our family-owned business. I’d regularly visit manufacturing companies who had issues with dust leakage around their flexible connections. In those days, they were all using hose-clamps to fasten their connectors on the outside of the equipment, and they simply didn’t do a good job. Massive amounts of production downtime was being spent on clean-ups and refits and the plant managers I spoke to always complained about the issue. I knew there had to be a better way and it played on my mind constantly.

I had a bit of a ‘eureka’ moment at 2am one morning with a vision of a flexible connector that sealed from the inside of the equipment without needing clamps. That's where the idea for the BLUEBAND™ connector actually started.

What is the product made from and who uses this product and for what purpose? It’s a unique concept that’s been quickly embraced by leading manufacturers in

the food, pharmaceutical, chemical and mineral industries around the world. Flexible connectors like ours are usually used in a processing line transporting bulk products – like flour or cereal – as they go through their production and packaging process. The BFM® fitting system itself encompasses two stainless steel spigots or adaptors that are welded to either end of a customer’s existing pipes or pieces of equipment they want to connect. The flexible connector itself is snapfitted in between the two spigots without the need for clamps. It forms a 100% dust-tight seal, and our customers love the ease of installation because it takes seconds to change a connector with no tools needed.

We make a wide range of connectors in varying materials but our most popular by far is our proprietary Seeflex material which is a clear, ether-based polyurethane.

We understand these are all made right here on the Shore?

Yes, we make every BFM® product here in our Birkdale factory and they are exported all over the world. We’ve always been in Birkdale, but growing demand for our

product saw us move one street over into new, much larger premises in 2022. That allowed us to scale up production, with additional expansion potential for future growth.

I love the fact that we employ so many local people too – virtually all our staff live on the Shore and many live within a just few kilometres of the factory.

You must be very proud of this success? Immensely proud of our team and what we’ve achieved together. In the years since our inception, we’ve grown from a subsidiary manufacturing operation into a thriving, independent company with more than 12,000 customers worldwide.

Over 95% of the world's top food manufacturers, such as Nestle and Mondelez, use our products. So do giants in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, like Pfizer, Bayer, Akzo Nobel and Unilever among others - it's a real testament to BFM®'s ability to make manufacturing cleaner, safer and more efficient. Quality OEM manufacturers are also recognising the value BFM® fitting systems add to their

BFM® Global CEO Blair McPheat

BFM® product in action in Denmark

products, installing them on their machinery as standard before they leave their factories.

Performance and reliability are why our existing users love our products, but our dedication to solving customers’ problems is what started this business. I’m determined that our ‘see a need, fill a need’ philosophy continues and we’ll go on innovating and evolving new products as our customers and markets need us to.

What have been the key challenges you have faced along the way?

Due to our product being so different to anything that had gone before it, we’ve had to effectively educate the whole manufacturing world on the ‘new’ way to connect their process lines. Hose-clamp connectors were just what everyone had used for years so it’s been quite a big culture shift for some in the industry. The good thing is that once someone who works in a processing factory sees a BFM® fitting in action, they realise how revolutionary it is and are often blown away by it. That’s why it’s been so important to actually get the product in front of as many people as possible.

The other key challenge for sure has been in the area of IP protection. Because our product is unique – and it’s so good at what it does – we’ve seen quite a few copycats pop up over the years. That’s meant a serious investment in defending our patents globally. It’s been a constant battle but protecting our brand’s high quality and integrity is extremely important to us.

What key nuggets of advice would you give to others trying to get their product(s) onto the world stage?

Firstly, I’d say learn from others who have done it already and don’t try and reinvent the wheel. There are so many successful small to medium Kiwi businesses that are manufacturing and exporting their products to the world. Call them, go and talk to them, and learn from their experience. They’re usually more than happy to share that knowledge and it will give you a genuine head start.

The other thing would be to actually

hop on a plane and get face to face with your prospective customers. Don’t just rely on what third party agents or distributors tell you, particularly in the establishment phase of your business.

I spent a lot of time travelling, meeting the companies I knew would benefit from my product and physically getting in front of them. I learnt a lot from that and also built some really important relationships. I honestly believe that it’s still true today, even in this age of video conferencing, that there really is no substitute for in-person meetings.

Performance and reliability are why our existing users love our products, but our dedication to solving customers’ problems is what started this business.

You were born and bred on the Shore and the McPheat family is a prominent identity. What do you love about the place? The beaches and lifestyle on the Shore are second to none – my wife Jan and I both grew up here and all our network of friends and family are here. We couldn’t imagine living anywhere else!

What does Blair McPheat do to relax away from business?

We love heading to the beach – I’ve always enjoyed many different water sports and there’s just nothing better than getting out on the water. Having said that, we’ve recently moved to a more rural property after spending our whole lives in Devonport, so our daily leisure activities have probably shifted a little more to the land now. We’re having fun redeveloping the gardens and property to put our stamp on it and find we’re actually really enjoying living the country life!

Visit: BFMfitting.com

Blair McPheat and Aidan Bennett in the BFM® factory

BFM® products in action in a Dairy Factory BFM® Global, 17 Kahika Street, Birkdale

Not forgotten

Harbour Hospice support doesn’t stop after your loved one has died. In the last year it provided 51 bereavement support group sessions and 866 bereavement counselling sessions for family members whose loved ones died in its care. Brent McMurchy was one of those family members. Brent and his eight-year-old son Campbell recently faced their first Christmas without their muchloved wife and mother, Cat. Here, Brent shares how Hospice helped them deal with that ‘difficult first’, among others.

Cat McMurchy was a fun-loving woman. So, when she knew Christmas 2023 would be her last she organised a huge scavenger hunt. She, her husband Brent and their son Campbell competed with six other families to see who would be the first to gather a full set of photos of themselves in front a decorated house, with a reindeer, dressed as a Christmas tree, and so on.

“That was just what Cat was like,” Brent says. “She had this really creative mind and she drew people together.”

Christmas 2024 was different, with just Brent, Campbell and close family. Cat died in Harbour Hospice care on 4 April 2024, age 45, two years after being diagnosed with cancer.

Cat received end-of-life care in Harbour Hospice’s Inpatient Unit. Brent explains, “All Cat had wanted was to be herself as much as she could, for as long as she could, then to have a precipitous drop right at the end. I’m telling you, that’s exactly what happened. Cat continued living her life; she was even still riding bikes with Campbell and I when she was sick. She was someone who could always smell the flowers.”

When Cat first went into hospice care she worried she’d be sent home, because she “looked fine”, Brent says, and because she’d been dismissed by other health professionals earlier in her journey when she’d tried to get to the bottom of why she felt unwell.

“But the doctors at hospice were so reassuring,” Brent says. “We were told. "We can see what’s happening. Trust me, you’re not going anywhere." That was the first example of the absolute compassion and understanding that people at hospice have.

Brent and Campbell visited Cat every day and grew to see hospice as a welcoming and safe space. “I used to stand in the hallway and think, 'A building like this, where so many lives end, could be the most macabre-feeling place ever. Heavy, dark, sad.' But it isn’t. It feels full of love and compassion, and the people in it, they exude that too.”

Brent says that love and compassion continued after Cat’s death. He received six bereavement counselling sessions which helped him develop the tools he needed “to cope with my own grief and support Campbell in his.” He says it enabled them to deal with the difficult firsts: Campbell’s first birthday without his mum, Cat’s birthday, their first Christmas.

Brent was then invited to join a hospice bereavement support group, and says it was helpful to be around people who understood. “We all said the same thing in our own ways – that others can be sympathetic, but only we know what it’s like to be in our shoes.” The group has stayed in touch.

Hospice care doesn’t end when your loved one dies. To support other families through their bereavement, go to harbourhospice.org.nz/donate/appeal.

By Hon Simon Watts, North Shore MP

North Shore 2025: Looking ahead with optimism

As we move into 2025, there’s a real sense of optimism here on the Shore. The summer has been fantastic, with events like SailGP and the Sunsetter Festival in Devonport bringing vibrancy, energy and an overdue positive spirit to our shores. These events have reminded us of what makes our city so special: our stunning environment, diverse community, and a shared passion for living life to the fullest.

However, there’s no denying that this year will have its challenges. For most Kiwis, the cost of living remains at the forefront of their minds. Groceries, rent and everyday expenses stretch household budgets, and ensuring that economic growth translates to real relief for families is a top priority. The government has a clear focus on economic growth, and while the journey may be bumpy, there is confidence that the plan will steer us through.

One area where focus has delivered early results is community safety. The positive outcomes from the gang patch ban highlight how getting focused can make a meaningful difference. Initiatives like this show that when we focus on practical, straightforward solutions, we can create safer, more welcoming communities for everyone.

The positive outcomes from the gang patch ban highlight how getting focused can make a meaningful difference.

As the summer holidays come to an end, it’s time to shift gears and look to the school year ahead. The North Shore is home to some of New Zealand’s most outstanding schools, and the dedication of our teachers and administrators deserves special recognition. These educators are not just teaching subjects; they are shaping the future leaders of our country. We all appreciate their efforts and incredible impact on our young people’s lives.

2025 will undoubtedly bring its share of uncertainties, but it’s also a year filled with opportunity. The government’s commitment to creating jobs, supporting businesses, and building infrastructure gives us a strong foundation for growth. As a community, we can make the most of these opportunities by staying connected, supporting one another and keeping an eye on the bigger picture.

We’re no strangers to progress and innovation here on the North Shore. Let’s welcome the year ahead with optimism and determination. By working together and focusing on what matters, we can navigate 2025 and make it a year to remember.

Hon Simon Watts — MP for North Shore Minister of Energy, Climate Change, Revenue and Local Government

Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz

09 486 0005

facebook: @simonwattsmp instagram: @simonwattsmp

Cat McMurchy

Brent and Campbell

Hidden secrets of Silversea and Silver Nova cruises Caro from World Travellers shares her secrets from the sea

As I sit here with a glass of champagne on the balcony of our room at level six, travelling from Napier to Wellington, I have to say Silversea and Silver Nova have exceeded all expectations – beyond, in fact. The cruise line is outstanding and the service and staff are impeccable. What a fantastic six days on Silversea Nova, one of the three newer ships in the fleet of Nova, Ray and Muse. Nothing at all is a problem. It’s the little things and the wee secrets that put this cruise line at the top end of the game:

• Rooms are light, airy and very beautiful, and every room has a spacious balcony, which is fabulous.

• The ‘Chronicle’ that is ready for you in your room – keep it safe as it gives you the layout of the ship for future options.

• The healthy breakfast restaurant is on level 10. If you want something quieter and more personal, have breakfast set up on your balcony on a morning when you're coming into port - you can’t beat the view.

• If you request a special meal for any reason, the team goes above and beyond to make it happen.

• Canapes are at 4pm, or on request, delivered to your room by your butler at a time requested by you.

• Your butler fills your fridge with whatever you like. We had a French rosé and a Chilean red – outstanding!

• No throw-away water bottles are used, and a lovely cold water

UTHERN AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS

bottle is set beside your bed at night.

• The Salt bar – you just have to try the signature cocktail! The 'Celestial Nova' should be your first drink on board – head to the bar and ask for Shirad, the best barman in the world.

• There are cute hidden bars all over the ship to meet friends for a private drink and delightful restaurants.

• Once you have chosen your choice of ship and your destination, book your restaurants in advance – there are some amazing ones to try. To ensure you experience them all, booking is vital and saves you from having to choose each night. You do pay a small charge, two in fact, but it's worth every penny.

• Everything is thought of to give you a restful sleep: lighting that can be dimmed by the switch of a button, black-out curtains, and, oh, the pillows and bedding! How I would love to take it all home!

There are definite secrets when booking a Silversea cruise, and these are only a few! Call me about our beautiful Silversea cruises, and I will give you many more tips and tricks!

Caro Imrie, Director and Senior Travel Advisor World Travellers Milford and Mangawhai 09 320 3514, 027 449 2349 caro@wtm.co.nz worldtravellers.co.nz/stores/milford-and-mangawhai/

Caro Imrie

Mike and Caro

Nine reasons NOT to get an e-Bike

John Cowan, a seasoned e-Biker and leader of the Café Cruisers e-Bike group, reflects on his time on the saddle with some surprising advice.

1. Helmet hair: This is the big one. When you take your helmet off in a café, you find your hair has compressed into an unstylish, formless clump. Sometimes, your hair springs up in comical patterns of tufts matching the helmet’s vent holes. My simple and effective fix to this problem is baldness. Other solutions include not wearing a helmet (though head injuries are even less attractive than helmet hair) and hanging about in a group of people with even worse helmet hair than your own - a big advantage of riding in a group.

2. Looking old: My male vanity fought a rear-guard action against getting an e-Bike for years. In my testosterone-poisoned mind, swapping my unpowered ‘muscle-bike’ for an e-Bike would be a surrender to aging. I thought that people would think that I was less vigorous and virile. The sad reality is nobody ever thought I was vigorous and virile anyway so that argument was pretty pointless. I now overtake people on their muscle-bikes, and feel vigorous and virile.

3. Expensive: E-Bikes are too expensive… but only if you don’t ride them. Parked in your garage, they represent a terrible waste of money. However, if you actually ride the things they become an incredibly cost-effective source of transport, fun and exercise. Our group (the Café Cruisers) has rides twice a week and regular riders think of their e-Bikes as amazing value for money. Getting on an e-Bike does cost a lump of money, but wave this article under the noses of sales-staff at bike shops like ElectrifyNZ in Albany and who knows what deals they might come up with.

4. Disruptive: If you take up e-cycling, especially if you ride in a group, be warned: it can disrupt your life. It may cut into that time you could have spent tidying your garage or staring at your phone. You may find that your calendar fills up with trips and rides. You may have your life disrupted by having new friends and new interests. You have been warned.

5. Anti-social: Do people like cyclists? Talkback hosts grumble and some politicians are still 'bike-o-phobes', but cycling popularity is surging. Is there really a car-versus-bike culture war? My experience is Auckland motorists are patient and friendly and getting more and more bike-kind all the time (though the exceptions do stick in your mind!) The Café Cruisers use a charm offensive: lots of waves, smiles, excuse me’s and friendly tinkles on the bell. By getting an e-Bike you

might become a social outcast but you will be warmly welcomed by the rest of us rejects.

6. Dangerous: No joke: you can dent yourself severely on a bike. I comfort myself with the statistic that, despite all the accidents you hear of, cyclists live on average two years longer than non-cyclists. Exercise makes such a difference to your well-being, and e-cycling is proven to be wonderful at enhancing your fitness. I am in more danger eating chips on my sofa than I am whizzing along a bike path. There’s lots you can do to tilt the statistics even more in your favour: get the right bike for you, keep it serviced, learn to ride well by riding with others and, most of all, ride! You get riding skills by riding, so your next kilometre is always safer than your last kilometre.

7. Boring: Your friends and family may get sick and tired of your boring stories about your biking adventures, discoveries, travels and fun. They may skip past the dozens of Facebook posts about your outings. They may decline your offer to show them your latest gadget or bike. Fortunately, boring people don’t know they are boring, so I wouldn’t worry about it.

8. Too hard: There are challenges to mastering an e-Bike. One of the best things about riding in a group is seeing some of the people who ride and thinking, “If they can do it, I can.”

9. Slippery slope: It might just start with an occasional ride. Then you might accidentally join the Café Cruisers or some other social riding group, and you find you’re riding every week. You might start commuting to work along the North Shore’s growing network of paths and cycle lanes. Before you know it, you’re cycling the Otago Rail Trail. The most unlikely people can catch the cycling bug very severely; some of them vanish for weeks at a time, leaving only a trail of social media posts as they weave and wobble around Croatia or France or somewhere. Again, you have been warned.

Electrify.nz

Northridge Plaza, 100 Don Mckinnon Drive, Albany 09 414 4877

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun 10am-3pm. Closed public holidays electrify.nz/northshore facebook instagram @electrify.nz

Local insights on the new Auckland temple

Amos Watene chats with Channel Mag about his work as a production manager for the Church's Takapuna-based team

The new Auckland temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a beacon of faith, hope and peace for me and many in my local Takapuna community. Growing up, I viewed the temple as a place of wonder; a sanctuary where fears and pain would disappear. Life, however, can be tough, and even those who attend the temple regularly experience feelings of despair. Not all my questions or pains have been answered there, but the temple has always been a source of refuge, a reminder of God’s love, and the peace He offers. It provides perspective and a chance to reset my focus on the joy and hope I seek in life.

I come from an entertainment background. My family performed Polynesian shows and mowed lawns to make ends meet. Later, I became a musician and voice-over artist, best known as the voice of 'Brobee' on Yo Gabba Gabba. I never imagined working for the church in New Zealand, but in 2017, I found myself returning to the homeland of my father in Aotearoa to join the church’s production team here in Takapuna. As a production manager, I’ve had the privilege of broadcasting the Auckland temple groundbreaking, and the re-dedication of the Hamilton temple, among other special events. To me, the temple is a sacred space where I can draw closer to God, seek guidance and find peace. It symbolises the covenants I’ve made with God, strengthening my relationship with Him and helping me live with more compassion. The temple is a spiritual home, free from distractions, where I can pray for loved ones, reflect on my ancestors and consider God’s plan for me. For our local

communities, I hope the Auckland temple represents cultural diversity and faith, fostering unity and connection.

To all who are interested in finding out more about it, follow the code as shown below to book your spot. Everyone is welcome to come and see the temple, inside and out, during the temple open house from 27 February to 22 March, excluding Sundays.

AUCKLAND

NEW ZEALAND TEMPLE

OPEN HOUSE

27 FEBRUARY - 22 MARCH (EXCLUDING SUNDAYS)

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY AND PEACE OF THE AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND TEMPLE.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE AND RESERVE YOUR VISIT.

Amos Watene

Kristin welcomes new Executive Principal

Kristin is pleased to welcome our new Executive Principal Kim Green who started in January 2025.

Kim has joined Kristin from the International School in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where she was Head of School (Executive Principal). She has replaced outgoing Executive Principal Mark Wilson, who has taken up an equivalent executive principal position as Rector at St Andrew’s College in Christchurch after nearly six years leading Kristin.

Growing up around New Zealand, Kim studied at Waikato University and started her career as a geography and social studies teacher at Auckland’s Rosehill College in 1998 followed by six years at St John’s College, Hamilton.

In 2006, she accepted a role at Vientiane International School in Laos, where she began teaching the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes. Here, Kim was the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) coordinator and she was later appointed Secondary School Principal.

Kim then moved to the International School Dhaka in Bangladesh in 2014 as head of the Secondary School and then she held the role of Director/Executive Principal at Qatar Academy Sidra in 2017, both IB World Schools. She started her current position at International School Ho Chi Minh City in 2020. Kim is humbled to have joined Kristin and returned home to Aotearoa.

“I was drawn to Kristin’s strong familyoriented environment and commitment to developing future ready learners. What truly resonated with me was Kristin’s Christian values and foundational story – a learning community created by families for their tamariki.

“I am deeply impressed by Kristin’s commitment to progressive education, wellbeing and the International Baccalaureate continuum. These core elements create a powerful foundation for empowering every educator and learner with a sense of creativity and curiosity, a local and global perspective, for fostering a culture of care and belonging, and for ensuring that all ākonga are equipped to thrive in our interconnected world,” Kim says.

Kim is looking forward to working alongside Kristin’s dedicated staff, passionate students, supportive whānau and committed board to nurture the continued growth and success of Kristin.

What truly resonated with me was Kristin’s Christian values and foundational story – a learning community created by families for their tamariki.

Kim Green

Gecko in the Village

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CHINESE NEW YEAR 202 5 GLENFIELD MAL L

Join us on Saturday 8th February for a n exciting L i on Danc e performance . P l us, en j oy free face painting, colourin g activities and roam i ng characters throughou t the weekend !

Vis i t our website and follow us on socia l s for more i nformation .

Your one stop coffee shop because you expect nothing less takeaway Follow the aroma of freshly roasted coffee to find us on Level 5, Glenfield Mall. sip your favourite brew our delectable bites the cozy atmosphere some freshly roasted beans taste enjoy

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COMPLIMENTARY VALENTINE’S GIFT WRAPPING:

Get your gifts wrapped for FREE this Valentine’s Day at our Concierge Desk! Saturday 8 February and Sunday 9 February: 11am - 3pm PLUS Friday 14 February: 1pm - 5pm

JP SERVICES:

Our Justice of the Peace services are back in full swing at Glenfield Mall outside Cotton On Mega on Level 3. From 4pm until 8pm, every Friday.

STAY ‘N PLAY:

Your most loved Wednesday activity is back for 2025! Head to Glenfield Mall every Wednesday 10am - 12pm for a fun activity for your little ones and grab a FREE co ee card to be used in the Mall.

From bush to coast — and couldn’t be happier

Welcome to the third story in a series that shares the experiences of residents at Metlifecare’s Orion Point. Hear how they came to be there, what shaped their choice of retirement village, and what life is like since making Orion Point their home.

After spending over 50 years living in a 1930s bungalow deep in the bush, John Staniland was surprised by how seamlessly he transitioned to life at Orion Point — Metlifecare’s brand-new retirement village in Hobsonville.

“The forest has been my whole life,” John reflects. “There was a time when I thought I’d never leave. But I realised that wasn’t fair to my wife — or myself. So, when I heard a retirement village was going to be built here, I started looking into it.”

John’s decision was well-considered. The location, landscape, and connection to the area were important factors for both him and his wife, Karen.

“I began by looking at aerial photos of the land long before construction started, then at the renders for what was planned. I came down with binoculars, stood on a hill, and scoped out

“We have a lovely wide vista over the inlet, with mangroves, manuka and mapau trees. We essentially traded our inland forest for coastal vegetation, and we love it.”

where the coastal villas would be. That’s when I thought, ‘This could work for us.’”

For John and Karen, being in a place that felt open and connected to nature was essential. Their previous home was at the end of a 1.5-kilometre gravel road with no visible neighbours and was about as remote as you can get.

“We knew we couldn’t replicate that, but we needed greenery and something to look at. We found that here. We have a lovely wide vista over the inlet, with mangroves, manuka and mapau trees. We essentially traded our inland forest for coastal vegetation, and we love it.”

From their villa, John also enjoys birdwatching — particularly of a pair of kingfishers nesting in the stump of an old pine tree. But with a coastal walkway just steps from their door, he’s also discovered a new pastime: people-watching.

“It really surprised me,” John admits. “We went from living in a place where we hardly saw anyone, to having people walk by our home daily. We’ve gotten to know some of the locals, and a

Staying connected to nature was important to John and Karen.

few have even become friends. It turns out I’m more sociable than I ever thought I could be!”

Another key factor in their decision was Orion Point’s proximity to John’s ongoing conservation work. As the former founding Chair of the Waitākere Branch of Forest & Bird, John has dedicated much of his life to conservation. He remains actively involved in initiatives at Matuku Reserve and Matuku Link in the Waitākere River Valley, focusing on pest control, wetland restoration, and education.

It was during one of his regular visits to Matuku Link that John received confirmation that Orion Point was the right move.

“It was a huge decision to leave our home, and I wanted to be absolutely sure. So, one day, on my way to Matuku Link, I asked for guidance. Not long after, I heard a roar in the sky and saw an Orion plane fly overhead — it felt meant to be.”

Since moving to Orion Point a year ago, John has continued to make meaningful

Find a village that feels like home

contributions to the local community. He’s joined Habitat Hobsonville, an initiative where locals work together to restore native habitats by planting, weeding, and mulching. He’s also been busy planting pūriri trees along the village’s estuary edge, hoping to attract native birds — especially kererū.

“If you plant enough, they will come. We had beautiful birdlife on our old property, and I can’t wait to see more here.”

“I always say I was sad to leave my home in the bush, but I was happy to arrive at Orion Point. Here we have all the modern luxuries and comforts that we haven’t had before. And I do love the spa pool!”

Call Kirsty on 09 300 0518 | orionpointsales@metlifecare.co.nz

62 Tahingamanu Road, Hobsonville | orionpoint.co.nz

John loves living close to his ongoing conservation work.

Moving Made Easy

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!

Mrs. Brynyce Owen

Paul Fordham is the new Headmaster at Westlake Boys High School. He succeeds David Ferguson who served as headmaster for 15 years and has taken a new role as CEO of The Teachers Institute. Paul is an alumnus of Westlake Boys. This is the first time the school has appointed an old boy as headmaster since its founding in 1962. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett went along to Westlake Boys in January to find out more about Paul Fordham, who got the big job after what the school’s board chair Andrew Nicoll described as “a rigorous search with candidates from around the world and the country.” By all reports, there were a huge number of applicants from far and wide but the board settled for someone very close to home; Paul was most recently Associate Principal at the school.

A chat with Paul Fordham

New Headmaster of Westlake Boys High School

I had never met Paul Fordham before meeting with him in his corner office on the first floor of Westlake Boys in January. It seemed only like yesterday when I sat down in the same office for a very similar interview with his predecessor, David Ferguson. Paul reminded me that it was 15 years ago! What struck me, however, very early on in our chat, is what a good choice the Westlake Boys board has made. David Ferguson clearly did a superb job in his long stint as headmaster and the community was sad to see him go. But with Paul Fordham it feels like it is going to be business as usual, continuing with the fine platform that has been set.

Board chair Andrew Nicoll made that clear when announcing the appointment. “Westlake Boys High School is one of New Zealand’s premier secondary schools by every standard and Paul is the right leader to pick up this mantle and lead us into the next era

of excellence. Given his familiarity with staff, students, parents and stakeholders he is also able to hit the ground running. We couldn’t be happier with this appointment.”

Paul Fordham is a big tall lad – well over six feet tall. He’s married to Sam and they have two young children, a son Arthur (4) and a daughter Frankie (1). They live at Hobsonville Point. He’s a keen runner and he has played competitive hockey. He also plays acoustic guitar. The Shore is home. He was born at North Shore Hospital and was brought up on the Shore. Family time is important to Paul –they enjoy going to the beach.

Paul Fordham started out as a PE teacher, studying for a Bachelor of Physical Education at the University of Auckland and continuing with postgraduate study in social theory with a particular interest in masculinity.

He has spent the past 14 years teaching in single-sex boys’ secondary education on the

North Shore. Before returning to Westlake Boys, Paul was at Rosmini College. He also spent a year overseas teaching at Surbiton Girls High School in the United Kingdom.

He has held various areas of responsibility throughout his time in education, including leading a physical education department, being a senior dean, managing school-wide property, coordinating and maintaining schoolwide health and safety procedures, being the director of sport, music and performing arts, and as deputy principal and associate principal. His main area of responsibility until now has been pastoral care and ensuring Westlake is a safe and healthy place of learning for the student body.

Paul describes the headmaster role at Westlake Boys as his dream job.

“I wasn’t anticipating that this role would come up, so it was a complete surprise when David announced he was moving on,” said

Paul Fordham

Paul. “To be chosen as the first alumni to lead the school is a nice story. It really does give our students something to aspire to. Under David’s leadership, the school has flourished. My job is to work hard, to continue that good work. It is an honour to be able to enact change and drive initiatives which help our student body succeed.

“Students will continue to be at the heart of decision-making and our practice will be adaptive to reflect their needs. Developing the professional capacity of staff for this cause will also be a priority. Staff here go above and beyond for our boys and that will continue.

“I have a deep respect for our traditions of excellence in every area and I am looking forward to forging the future of the school with the students we serve and the phenomenal teachers we have. We aspire to be the best, and this vision is reflected in the quality of what is on offer. We know relationships are critical with boys, and they've got teachers here who care about them, a culture which promotes courage and high expectations, and world-class resources and facilities to ensure what we offer is suitable for meeting their needs. This helps them grow into well-rounded young men who excel in the world beyond school.”

I have a deep respect for our traditions of excellence in every area and I am looking forward to forging the future of the school…

It is clear that headmaster Paul Fordham is keen for the school to continue to innovate. Two school initiatives that excite him are ‘OpenGround’ and ‘Future Sport’.

OpenGround is a programme for year 13 students to learn entrepreneurship and business. It encourages students' personal growth and equips them with the confidence and knowledge needed to pursue their entrepreneurial endeavours. Students gain practical experience by creating and running actual business ventures and getting first-hand exposure to the challenges and responsibilities of entrepreneurship. Each student is matched with a mentor and guest speakers come into the school bringing real-world experience and insights, providing invaluable inspiration and knowledge. During the programme, Dragons’ Den events are held where students are given the opportunity to pitch for legitimate funding. In 2024 there were 21 business ventures ranging from an AI-powered education app revolutionising teaching and learning,

premium mousepads for gamers in need of a competitive edge, personalised dried flower gifts and decorations, a venue discovery tool for nightspots and venue owners in Auckland, and affordable high-quality sports jersey framing.

Future Sport is a programme designed for students who wish to blend their passion for sport with a fulfilling career in the sports industry. Future Sport aims to develop confident students of character who can make their mark in the sports industry, providing a supportive nurturing environment and equipping students with the skills, knowledge and industry insights to identify their unique pathway in the sports industry. It will do this through guided research, expert talks and site visits that encourage the personal growth needed to pursue their sporting endeavours. Industry experts and Westlake alumni are engaged in the programme for students to gain real-world insights into the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in sport. There are also site visits to see sports professionals in action. Participants are guided to develop career-centric processes like CV writing, goal setting, interviewing and brand development.

OpenGround is managed by Ant Ford, who has over 25 years of business experience and a deep understanding of business and entrepreneurship. Future Sport is managed by Paul Strang who has over 25 years of sports experience.

Paul Fordham says that the school’s vision for these programmes is to be recognised as the "benchmark" and eventually rolled out to other secondary schools throughout the country. The school is currently working on another similar initiative related to the online gaming industry.

So what challenges does Westlake Boy's new headmaster see ahead for the school?

“Holding on to the important traditions in a changing landscape is clearly one,” explains Paul. “Our community loves the fact that we retain many of those traditional values, standards and practices, with our school assemblies being an example.

“Recruitment and retention of staff is a challenge as well. No school is immune to the shortage of expertise, so there is a lot to work on in that area.

“Attendance is another issue that is not just a problem in New Zealand, but all around the world. Our attendance is 92%, still relatively strong, but down from 95% pre-Covid. We are keen to keep working on improving this.

“The popularity of the school and managing our roll [numbers] and facilities are also challenging. We currently have 2,800 boys at the school, which is pretty much at capacity for our facilities.”

When quizzed about how the government could improve its support, Paul says that infrastructure development is hugely

important, particularly with the pressure on the roll numbers. This year the school has around 1,000 applicants for 500 places.

“We are lucky that with the support from many different parts of the school community, we have been able to fund some of our capital projects ourselves. But more support from the government is needed for the development of much-needed infrastructure facilities. Greater support and resources for students with learning challenges is much-needed as well.”

So what does Paul Fordham love about Westlake Boys High School?

“First of all, it’s my old school! The size of the school is a strength; there are things we can offer that others can’t, such as facilities and resources. We have a great culture that we are focused on preserving and enhancing. We have a strong and active alumni network, Westlakers, that is the best in the country. We also have regular alumni get-togethers overseas for those based in places like Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and as far away as London.

“This year we will also complete our brand new music and performing arts block. This will be an outstanding new facility linked to our auditorium for performance. This is overdue for our wonderful music and performing arts students. It will double the space we have for them. We are one of New Zealand's top schools for music and performing arts and we are excited about having the facilities to match.”

After spending an hour with Paul, it is clear that Westlake has made a fine choice with its new headmaster. He says he takes the responsibility of delivering for the 2,800 families of the school seriously and is looking forward to the challenge.

Aidan Bennett and Paul Fordham

There’s a lot happening in Milford

Wow! Christmas and New Year have passed so quickly and we’re now into the second month of the year! We hope you enjoyed the holiday period and had good times with family and friends. There’s a lot happening in Milford this year and we will keep you up to date.

Valentines Day - 14 February

Milford has all you need for that special person in your life, be it a gift, a special dinner or even a visit to one of our great cafés. Check out our website – milfordshops.co.nz for details.

A unique option is this special date night: Create your own candle at Flame in Vintage, located in Milford Centre.

Book your Valentine’s session for Friday 14, Saturday 15 or Sunday 16 February. Bring the light(s) of your life - all groups are welcome. Scan with your camera to book online.

Check out these new Milford businesses

Sophia Beauty & Spa

The newest beauty destination for specialist eyelash extensions, nails and cosmetic tattoos is now open in Milford! With over 15 years of experience, it’s your new go-to!

Good Town Burger Shop

Best burger shop in Milford! Juicy, handcrafted burgers made with fresh, local ingredients. Dine-in or takeaway, open Tuesday-Saturday, 5pm-9pm. Not sure what to try? Test out their Korean Fried Chicken Burger!

What’s on

Head of Harbour Rowing

The major Head of Harbour Rowing event will take place at Lake Pupuke from Thursday 6 to Sunday 8 February, with the main events happening over the weekend. This event attracts secondary schools from all over the North Island as well as our local ones, and is a key event on their rowing calendar. This is a fantastic opportunity to see these up-and-coming athletes, many from local families, and enjoy our hospitality sector for perfect breakfast or lunch options. All our retail businesses will also be open for you to browse and shop in a vibrant environment.

National A-Class & Tornado National Yachting Championships

Thursday 20 to Sunday 23 February, Milford Cruising Club (MCC) are hosting the A-Class Catamaran and Tornado National Championships, with sailors and their families from all over New Zealand coming to our beautiful beachfront to compete. If you like good old Kiwi sportsmanship and lots of colourful rigs, pop down to Milford Beach Front Reserve to see our future sailing champions. MCC will have all their facilities open, so you will be able to get food, drinks and ice creams while you watch.

Update on Auckland Transport parking survey

Just a quick update on the AT parking survey in Milford. A representative from AT will be meeting with the business and residents’ associations to sort out the scope of the survey before starting. It will take six to eight months, and again, our two organisations will be consulted on the outcomes before any action is taken.

Although there has been some annoyance of having the AT traffic car monitoring the P30 Parking in the main street, now things have settled down, it appears that the P30 parking system is working much better, with the ability to find short-term parking so you can nip into a shop quickly, and is now functioning very well!

Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association, manager@milfordshops.co.nz. 021 950 463. milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV

New year, new horizons: Plan your 2025 travel adventure

The new year brings with it a sense of renewal – a perfect time to dream big, set goals, and plan adventures that will fill your soul with wonder. As the calendar flips to 2025, why not make it a year to explore new destinations, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime?

Picture yourself wandering through the charming streets of a European village, soaking in the history and romance. Or imagine basking on a tropical beach, the waves gently lapping at your feet as you sip a refreshing drink. Maybe this is the year to challenge yourself with an awe-inspiring trek through mountain trails or embrace serenity in a remote countryside retreat.

Travel in 2025 is all about meaningful experiences. Seek out destinations that resonate with your personal goals –whether that’s wellness, adventure or cultural immersion. For those looking to slow down and reconnect with nature, consider national parks, tranquil islands or eco-retreats. If you crave excitement, cities like Tokyo, New York or Rome are buzzing with energy and promise endless exploration.

Don’t forget to sprinkle your plans with spontaneity. The best adventures often come from the unexpected – a hidden café, a conversation with a local, or a detour to a lesser-known gem.

Start the year by dreaming boldly and planning thoughtfully. Travel

See the world on your terms

Bespoke travel packages, tailormade in Milford.

Like you, we love travel. The chance to discover new, exciting places, and create memories that last a lifetime. Shore Travel is here to help you explore the world, your way.

Cnr Kitchener & Milford Roads, Milford hello@shoretravel.co.nz (09) 489 2597 www.shoretravel.co.nz

isn't just about seeing the world; it’s about expanding your perspective, feeding your curiosity and celebrating the magic of the journey itself. Wherever 2025 takes you, may it be filled with discovery, connection and the joy of new beginnings. Shore Travel is here to help you travel the world on your terms.

Adventure awaits – start planning today!

Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz

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

Hoping for a brighter year ahead

In recent years there has been renewed hope as we’ve entered each new year that prospects would improve for the many businesses and households struggling to make ends meet, and this year is no different. A renewed hope has once more come to the fore, with a ‘Happy New Year’ being top of many peoples’ wish lists after having to deal with so many varied economic challenges for what seems like an eternity.

For far too long, all I can remember talking about is the difficult situation that businesses and households have continually found themselves in because of challenging economic circumstances, many of which are out of our control. We’ve faced lockdowns, supply chain issues and a shortage of labour, followed by the cost-of-living crisis fuelled by high interest rates, high inflation and ridiculously high food and fuel prices. Then, if all that wasn’t enough, the catastrophic weather events of 2023 added more immediate misery for some, with the longer-term effects being higher insurance premiums and Council and water rates for everyone.

consecutive reductions in the Official Cash Rate (OCR), which in turn triggered reductions in some interest rates by the banks. These reductions, which have recently been continued by some banks, have provided welcome relief, and although for some their impact may take some time to have an effect, it’s a move in the right direction.

Amongst the ongoing negative murmurings are some positive signs that the current financial pressures will ease over time, and there is a new level of optimism for the year ahead based on recent improvements in business and consumer confidence.

On a brighter note, inflation was deemed by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) to be under control and within its target settings earlier than expected last year. Consequently, we saw

Despite these positive signs, we’re not out of the woods with rising unemployment and Finance Minister Nicola Willis revealing late last year that the Government books were in a worse position than expected. We’ve still got some way to go before we can say with any confidence that we’ve turned the corner and our short and long-term economic future is bright, but in the recent Cabinet reshuffle, the economy and our economic recovery were once again prioritised by the Government, signalling what I hope will lead to an improved economic climate from which we can all benefit.

Amongst the ongoing negative murmurings are some positive signs that the current financial pressures will ease over time, and there is a new level of optimism for the year ahead based on recent improvements in business and consumer confidence. Given this optimism, I sincerely hope we all enjoy a happy, positive and successful 2025.

Thank you for your continued support of our local businesses, and I would, as ever, ask you to please continue with that support as we embark on the next stage of our economic recovery journey.

businessnh.org.nz 09 968 2222 027 479 9563 kevin@businessnh.org.nz

The Golf Bug – it’s infectious!

The game of golf is on a high. We are hugely lucky on the Shore to have a number of excellent clubs and courses in our communities or right on our doorsteps. Two of these have been rewarded as New Zealand’s best in recent years. Many new ‘Shore’ players have found golf in the past few yearsChannel Mag’s Aidan Bennett caught up with four of them during January.

Kay Grapengiesser

PUPUKE GOLF CLUB, MAIRANGI BAY

What Golf Club (or clubs) do you play at?

Kay: I am a member at Pupuke and play at a range of courses, including South Head, Waitakere, Huapai, Helensville, Omaha and Warkworth.

What made you decide to take up golf and join a club?

I joined Pupuke as it’s only three minutes’ drive from home, and I was returning to golf after many years. Lowey, the Golf Operations and marketing manager at Pupuke, gave me great encouragement. Lowey loves golf; she encouraged me to participate, and I became a member.

How often do you play?

Once or twice a week.

What do you enjoy about the game of golf?

It allows me to let go of work stress, and it’s a great way to exercise – especially Pupuke’s hills!

What do you find are the most challenging things about golf?

Every game is different. Every game is a challenge to improve, or at least play to my handicap or lower.

Do you have a favourite course other than your home club?

What advice would you give to others thinking about taking up the game?

Give it a go. It’s a great way to meet new people, and my husband has also taken the game up to play with me. We try to play regularly, and Pupuke has welcomed us, involved us and encouraged us to participate.

If you were going on a golfing holiday, where would you go?

We have been to Bali and played at Bali National and Kuta. In Australia, I have also played at Burleigh Heads, Redcliffe and Bribie Island. I am looking forward to packing the clubs and doing more trips, both overseas and around New Zealand.

Do you have a favourite golfer or someone you follow for golfing tips?

Obviously, Lydia Ko - she is an ex-Pupuke player.

Complete the following: A satisfying round of golf for me is…

It costs nothing to find out.

I do enjoy South Head’s big fairways.

To finish with a Rosé from hole 19 with friends – Kathy will have one on the bar cold for when I get in the door!

Kay Grapengiesser (centre) with golf buddies Tracy (left) and Fleur (right)

Mark Hannington

MEMBER, WAITEMATĀ GOLF CLUB, DEVONPORT

What Golf Club (or clubs) do you play at?

Mark: Waitematā.

What made you decide to take up golf and join a club?

I fix guitars part-time (theguitarworkshop. co.nz), so I can squeeze in nine holes around doing that and walking the dog. Joining a club means greater opportunities to book tee times, access to coaching, clubrooms and discounts. Brad Shilton is Waitematā club’s wonderful professional. He’s approachable, capable and generous with his time. The people working there are all lovely too. Ange, Dennis, Ranger, the dog and everyone else.

How often do you play?

I try to play nine holes twice a week.

What do you enjoy about the game of golf? It’s so difficult and I’m not very good at it. So there are endless opportunities to improve. No matter how bad your last round, there is always the next one.

What do you find are the most challenging things about golf?

Driving, hitting irons, chipping and putting – the lot!

Do you have a favourite course other than your home club?

No, I find Waitematā perfect for my golf.

What advice would you give to others thinking about taking up the game?

Give it a go. It’s great fun playing with friends and meeting new people. You can accomplish your daily step goal on a beautiful course, enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, and maybe hit a good shot or two. What’s not to like?

If you were going on a golfing holiday,

can find yourself not even knowing what you are trying to do, let alone how to do it. My suggestion is to get coached by a single person, don’t watch YouTube and ignore all

Mark Hannington

simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz SimonWattsMP

Madison Guppy

NORTH SHORE GOLF CLUB, ALBANY

What Golf Club (or clubs) do you play at?

Madison: I am a member of North Shore Golf Club and mostly play there, however, I do like to get out and try other clubs around Auckland.

What made you decide to take up golf and join a club?

I started playing golf when I lived in Dubai. It was during the Covid period, and golf was one of the ways we could get out of the house. My husband and I both got lessons together and from then on, we were hooked. Coming back to New Zealand, we decided we wanted to join a club so we could play regularly. North Shore is close to us, and having 27 holes makes it perfect for variety.

How often do you play?

I play at least once a week, usually on a Sunday. During summer I try to play more often and make the most of the daylight after work.

What do you enjoy about the game of golf?

The challenge of it, but also that magical feeling when you hit a good shot and the ball does exactly what you want it to. It is a great way to get outside and a fun way to spend the day with friends.

What do you find are the most challenging things about golf? Absolutely everything!

Do you have a favourite course other than your home club?

The courses in Dubai are just incredible. But I also love Royal Wellington (in Upper Hutt) and Muriwai.

What advice would you give to others thinking about taking up the game?

Just do it! But also get lessons first. There are so many elements to the game, and getting lessons really helped me master the basics.

If you were going on a golfing holiday, where would you go?

I would love to play some of the famous courses in the USA. A trip back to the UAE to play golf would also be great.

Do you have a favourite golfer or someone you follow for golfing tips?

My favourite golfer is Nelly Korda.

Complete the following: A satisfying round of golf for me is… When the sun is shining, I'm out with friends and hitting the ball reasonably well. Finishing up with a nice cold beer at the clubhouse is always best!

Madison Guppy

Marija Hardy

WAITEMATĀ GOLF CLUB, DEVONPORT (AND TITOKI, WHANGAMATĀ)

What Golf Club (or clubs) do you play at?

Marija: I play at Waitematā Golf Club and Titoki Golf Club in Whangamatā. These offer great, relaxed courses, and plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people.

What made you decide to take up golf and join a club?

I decided to take up golf about 18 months ago to spend more quality time with my husband, Kirk, and to challenge myself in a new way. Golf is the perfect mix of physical activity, mental focus and social interaction, which really appealed to me. I joined Waitematā Golf Club first and later Titoki Golf Club in Whangamatā, as they’re both fantastic clubs that make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

How often do you play?

I try to play a couple of times a week, fitting it in around family life and other commitments. It’s a great way to unwind and spend time outdoors.

What do you enjoy about the game of golf?

I love the mix of challenge and relaxation that golf offers. It’s an opportunity to spend quality time with my husband and friends, sharing laughs and creating wonderful memories on the course. Being out in nature, focusing on improving my game, and enjoying the social element of golf makes

it so rewarding. Every round is a chance to grow and connect.

What do you find are the most challenging things about golf?

Patience and consistency are the most challenging aspects for me. Golf really teaches you to stay calm and focused, even when things don’t go as planned. The mental challenge of the game is just as important as the physical one, but that’s also what makes it so rewarding when you see improvement.

Do you have a favourite course other than your home club?

Titoki in Whangamatā is my favourite. Whangamatā is such a special place for our family, and the sense of community there makes it even more meaningful. The course is beautiful, relaxed and welcoming, with some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Playing there always feels like a treat.

What advice would you give to others thinking about taking up the game?

Don’t hesitate to start! Golf can feel intimidating at first, but with good coaching and practice, you’ll quickly find your rhythm. It’s such a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, challenge yourself and meet new people. I’d say, just take the leap - you’ll be glad you did.

If you were going on a golfing holiday, where would you go?

There are so many incredible destinations, but I’d love to play in Scotland, the home of golf. Some of the amazing courses in the US are also on my bucket list. That said, New

Zealand has world-class courses as well, and a couple of weeks in Queenstown would be an unforgettable golfing holiday.

Do you have a favourite golfer or someone you follow for golfing tips?

Brooks Koepka is someone I really admire. His strength, focus and ability to handle pressure are incredibly inspiring. I enjoy following his career and learning from his game.

Complete the following: A satisfying round of golf for me is…

One where I can maintain a consistent game, enjoy the social aspect of being with great company, and have a laugh along the way. It’s not always about the score; it’s about the fun, the challenge and the time spent with others.

Marija Hardy

FOCUS ON BARRYS POINT ROAD

Stiebel Eltron: Celebrating 100 years of innovation

At Channel Magazine, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on Stiebel Eltron, a global leader in sustainable heating and hot water solutions, with a strong presence right here in Takapuna.

Last year marked a significant milestone as Stiebel Eltron celebrated 100 years of engineering excellence. Founded in Germany in 1924, the company has established itself as a trusted name worldwide, renowned for delivering energy-efficient and high-quality solutions. With nearly 50 years of experience in heat pump technology, Stiebel Eltron continues to innovate and provide sustainable solutions for modern living.

The Takapuna showroom is an essential destination for homeowners, architects and builders seeking premium energyefficient systems. Conveniently located on the North Shore on Barrys Point Road, the showroom showcases Stiebel Eltron’s diverse range of products. Beyond its trusted hot water systems and hydronic heating solutions, visitors can explore mechanical ventilation systems, room heaters, and heat pumps – each designed to enhance comfort while promoting sustainability.

Mechanical ventilation systems are increasingly popular in New Zealand homes, and for good reason. These systems not only reduce condensation but also improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollen and allergens – an essential feature in a country where allergies affect many.

Stiebel Eltron also offers an impressive selection of room heaters, combining functionality with sleek, timeless design. From stylish wall-mounted models to advanced convectors, these heaters provide

effective and energyefficient warmth, ideal for creating a cosy atmosphere during the colder months.

Plumbers and tradespeople play a vital role in delivering these systems, and the Takapuna showroom supports the local community by providing hands-on training sessions. These workshops ensure that professionals are well-prepared to install and service Stiebel Eltron’s range of innovative products.

As Stiebel Eltron celebrates a century of innovation, its nearly five-decade-long legacy in heat pump technology demonstrates its leadership in sustainable home solutions. Its heat pumps harness renewable energy from the air or ground, offering significant energy savings while contributing to a reduced carbon footprint.

We invite you to visit the Takapuna showroom to experience Stiebel Eltron’s commitment to excellence firsthand. With 100 years of history and a dedication to creating energy-efficient homes, Stiebel Eltron continues to shape the future of sustainable living in New Zealand and beyond.

61 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2221

stiebel-eltron.co.nz

Theodor Stiebel

Cruise & Wine Tasting Evening with QUAY Travel

In collaboration with Ponant Cruises, Wild Earth Travel and L’alcool, QUAY Travel invites you to a French-themed 'Cruise & Wine Tasting Evening' on Wednesday 19 February at 10/60 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, from 6pm to 7.30pm.

This exclusive event will showcase the exceptional experiences offered by Ponant Cruises. Ponant’s wide range of itineraries spans the globe, offering adventures from the icy landscapes of Antarctica and the Artic to the stunning coastlines of Australasia and the rugged Kimberleys, and from the sun-soaked Mediterranean to the cultural treasures of Europe. Meanwhile, Paul Gauguin Cruises specialises in the idyllic charm of Tahiti and French Polynesia. Enjoy a curated tasting of Barton & Guestier French wines, celebrated for their fine wine making - the perfect accompaniment to an evening of exploration and indulgence.

To make the evening even more special, ambassadors from Ponant, Paul Gauguin Cruises and L’alcool Wine will share their insights and recommendations. Hear firsthand from Sarah at Wild Earth Travel, who recently returned from an Arctic expedition aboard Ponant’s luxury icebreaker, where she witnessed the breathtaking sight of 68 polar bears.

With only 80 tickets available, this event will fill up quickly. Don’t miss your chance to explore these exclusive destinations while enjoying spectacular French wines, gourmet nibbles and access to special cruise offers available only to attendees.

We are proud to have been recently nominated for the CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) Awards as a finalist for Cruise Agency of the Year New Zealand, and we look forward to welcoming you to an evening of discovery and indulgence!

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

Ponant - Arctic

Ponant - Europe

Ponant - Bora Bora

HOMES & GARDENS: REFRESH RENOVATIONS

Heading off on a trip?

By Steve Deacon

Don’t let leaky taps ruin your return!

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an overseas adventure, it’s always important to keep your plumbing in check. While looking for tap or pipe leaks is something every homeowner should do year-round, a vacation is the perfect time to inspect your plumbing and address any issues before you go. Small leaks left unchecked can quietly cause significant damage while you’re away.

If you’re going to be away for some time and no one will be in the house, consider turning off the water at the meter.

A dripping tap or a hidden pipe leak might seem minor, but they can waste water, drive up your bills, and even lead to costly water damage over time. Don’t forget about outdoor taps and hoses –they can be sneaky culprits, too. What starts as a small drip could escalate into bigger issues like foundation damage or a soggy mess in your garden.

If you’re going to be away for some time and no one will be in the house, consider turning off the water at the meter. This simple step can prevent unexpected leaks or water damage while you’re gone. Before you head off, take a few moments to inspect all taps and pipes – indoors and out. If you suspect a leak but can’t pinpoint it, give us a call.

Need a hand? Don’t leave it to chance. Call the team at Seal Plumbing. We’ll help you identify and repair leaks to ensure your home is watertight, so you can enjoy your trip worry-free and return to peace of mind. Seal Plumbing: Give us a call today at 021 797 912. Let’s keep your home leak-free while you’re away!

Seal Plumbing and Gas Services - where quality meets reliability.

021 79 79 12

sealplumbing.co.nz

Jeremy & Sarah Lowe, Renovation Consultants

2025 home renovation trends revealed

Is 2025 your year to elevate your living space? Let's dive into the top renovation trends of 2025 that are set to transform your home into a stylish haven!

Sustainable materials: Eco-friendly is the way to go. From reclaimed wood to bamboo flooring, sustainability is more than a trend – it's a lifestyle.

Smart home innovations: Tech-savvy upgrades are here to stay. Smart lighting, automated security systems and energy-efficient appliances will make your life easier and your home smarter. Upgrades such as high-efficiency windows and improved insulation can significantly lower utility bills, too.

Biophilic design: Nature lovers, rejoice. Integrating natural elements into your home, like living walls and large windows for natural light, will create a calming oasis that brings the outside in. Rich woods and earthy paint colours, such as moody blues and deep greens are trending along with porcelain benchtops and limestone splashbacks.

Multi-functional spaces: As remote work becomes the norm, those flexible living areas are crucial. Think adaptable workspaces that can easily shift from office to relaxation zone.

Vintage charm: Nostalgia is making a comeback. Herringbone brick tiles are paving the way in 2025, and recreating the perfect rustic country look along with farmhouse sinks and retro appliances will add character and warmth to modern homes.

Dramatic colours: Out with the neutrals. Bold, rich colours will create dynamic spaces that pop. It's time to embrace those deep greens and vibrant blues. So far, the 2025 colours of the year are all about creating cosy, relaxing spaces that embrace bold saturation.

Which trend are you most excited about? Get in touch with your local renovation expert today for more ideas and inspiration. Let's make 2025 the year your home dreams come true!

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

Mood lighting with artistic flair

In 2025, home decor is all about blending practicality with a bit of flair, especially when it comes to lighting. Mood lighting is really making waves, turning everyday spaces into places that match how we feel or what we're doing. Plus, getting the lighting right for your artwork has become key in interior design, showing just how much lighting can impact the look and feel of your space.

Mood lighting: Setting the tone for 2025

Mood lighting is about creating vibes. Want your living room to feel cosy for movie night or lively for a party? With the latest smart tech, you can adjust the light’s intensity, colour and temperature with just a swipe on your smartphone or a quick voice command. It’s all about making your space work for you and your mood at the moment.

Lighting your artwork the right way

Art isn't just decoration; it’s a personal statement. The way you light it can make it pop or fade into the background. The trend is leaning towards focused, adjustable light fixtures that showcase your art perfectly without risking damage. LED lights are the go-to because they’re brilliant at showing true colours without the heat or UV that can mess with the artwork.

Combining smart mood lighting with the right art lighting doesn't just make your home more functional; it ramps up the style. As lighting tech gets even better, the ways you can tweak and personalise your space are only going to grow. So, embrace these lighting trends to make your home not just well-lit but a reflection of your personality and style in 2025 and beyond.

If you need a hand ensuring your home's lighting is just right, whether it's for setting the mood or highlighting your artwork, reach out to us at Lake Road Electrical, your friendly local electrician. We’re here to help make your summer safe and stress-free!

tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.

Native plants for New Zeland's conditions

Native plants which are adapted to New Zealand’s unique climate can be a great choice for a hardier, more easy-care garden. These are plants that have evolved in New Zealand’s unique climate and therefore are much more resilient to our weather.

Grasses and flaxes, for example, tend to be very resilient to drought, and there is now a huge choice in colour and size, from deep purples, reds, and browns to more vibrant greens, yellows, silvers and even pinks.

There are a great variety of hardy shrubs with colourful foliage or flowers, plants such as Hebes, Coprosma, Renga Renga and Libertia.

If you want trees with flowers, there are a variety of colours available in different Manuka and Kowhai trees. For statement trees and shrubs, it's hard to beat the Nikau Palm, Puka and Cabbage Tree for their unmistakable silhouettes.

For hedging, my personal favourite is the Titoki, which looks fantastic when pleached, although Five Finger, Coprosma, Ake Ake, and most Pittosporum also make great hedging options.

Whatever you choose, it’s important to give your plants the best start you can. “It’s better to dig a five-dollar hole for a fifty-cent plant than to dig a fifty-cent hole for a five-dollar plant,” goes the old garden adage, and it is true. Struggling plants will thrive in good soil, whilst even a thriving plant will struggle in poor soil.

When planting, dig a hole roughly twice the size of the pot the plant is currently in. This is especially important when planting in clay as it is a lot tougher for roots to work through. Add plenty of quality planting mix and compost, and a bit of gypsum in the bottom is helpful if it is heavy clay. Whilst you're digging, it's good to have the plant soaking in a seaweed tonic mixture; this helps protect the roots against transplant shock. Make sure to water everything in well once you have finished planting to ensure the soil packs tightly around the plant’s roots.

Photo by Roxanne Chamberland: https://www.pexels.com/ photo/close-up-shot-of-pink-flowers-6855685/

Photo by Sonny Sixteen: https://www.pexels.com/photo/purplehebe-flowers-in-bloom-14715743/

Amanda Graham

Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz

Top tips from Amanda Graham, Newhaven Gardens. North Shore hedge trimming, garden

By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager

February events for Pupuke Birdsong Project

Join us at Milford Family Fun Day on Sunday 2 February, 11am–3pm at Milford Reserve. There will be free junk play and face painting for the kids, stalls, and Milford Cruising Club will hold an open day. We’ll be in attendance promoting flood preparedness. Come along and join the fun!

There will be free junk play and face painting for the kids, stalls, and Milford Cruising Club will hold an open day.

takapunatrust.org.nz

Facebook/Instagram: @TakapunaNorthCommunityTrust office@takapunatrust.org.nz 09 486 2098

Supported by:

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction

Shore Junction loving 2025

We’re thrilled to kick off another exciting year at Shore Junction. After a well-deserved break, we’re back in action, ready to create unforgettable events and strengthen our amazing community, but we also wanted to take a look back at 2024 and celebrate some of our amazing statistics.

We ended the year with 4,897 youth members, and it's awesome to see that we've already blown past the 5,000 mark in 2025! That shows how much interest there is from young people in our community. We had 16,448 visits from members in 2024, which equates to over 38,000 hours of young people spending time here.

We continue to be a community space that people can book to use, with 1,173 external bookings last year totalling 15,249 visitors. As part of our initiative, we allow some community groups to use our space for free, which equates to over $40,000 in free hireage to our local community.

Shore Junction Records put out nine new songs last year from our producer sessions, and streams on Spotify of all of the songs reached over 30,000, which is a fantastic result for our youth members releasing music.

We fixed up 27 bikes that we collected from the Zero Waste Hub and were pleased to be able to allow young people to take these home for themselves and family members. With a new Climate Grant from Auckland Council to purchase tools and equipment needed to teach more young people these skills we will be able to do this even more in 2025.

2025 has lots of exciting things planned already from music gigs, to CV writing workshops, to Matariki events and Cosplay making, and we look forward to inviting even more young people through our doors in 2025 to experience the awesomeness that is Shore Junction.

To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz

It has been a privilege

Kia ora everyone and happy new year. They said, "Survive 'til '25," and that’s what we’ve done. Let’s hope the year ahead is a good one for all.

We finished last year on a high, especially for the folk of Takapuna and Castor Bay. The Local Board approved the design brief for the new Takapuna Library and Community Hub presented by Athfield Architects. For those who know architecture, you’ll know the project is in good hands as Athfield has consistently delivered inspiring and truly special civic and community spaces. Look no further than Te Pātaka Kōrero o Te Hau Kapua Devonport Library. At that project’s inception there was opposition to replacing the Devonport library, but today it’s a celebrated and loved community asset that we wouldn’t want to be without. We can’t wait to see the design concepts for the Takapuna Library and hub that Athfield will present for community feedback later in the year.

We also approved an allocation of budget to remediate the Kennedy Park stairs that were damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. This will be a targeted repair to make them usable again, with some drainage works to reduce stormwater runoff and limit ongoing coastal erosion. The new stairs will have a lockable gate that prevents access during storms and heavy rainfall, and we will institute regular monitoring of its structural integrity. These stairs have been damaged by storms in the past, as well as by fire and vandalism. The repair cost will be managed through the Council’s self-insurance policy, but it’s important residents understand that if they fail again, it would be unlikely for the local board to justify a further repair. Every set of circumstances differs, however, so I’ll never say never, but I do think we need to take a pragmatic approach to how we repair assets in volatile coastal areas. For now, residents can celebrate that their ‘stairs of doom’ fitness regime will be reinstated later in the year.

We also approved an allocation of budget to refurbish the exterior of 139 Beach Road at Kennedy Park. This innocent and dilapidated little bungalow is an important piece of our military history. It’s the remaining original barracks building that was used to house soldiers stationed at the Castor Bay coastal defence site. The original barracks were constructed to resemble a small housing estate, so it looked much like a standard state house rather than military accommodation. At the end of WWII, the camp was vacated, and many of the barrack buildings were removed. 139 Beach Road (the remaining barrack) was relocated further up along Beach Road to the site where it sits today at Kennedy Park. To protect the reserve land beneath the building, a former Local Board procured 139 Beach Road even though it was in a significant state of disrepair. Given the cost of rebuilding and its limited public benefit, it has been hoarded off for many years and de-prioritised for budget allocation. The good people of the Castor Bay Ratepayers and Residents Association have lobbied the local board for a long time to get it repaired. A petition was established that demonstrated a strong community appetite to

have the building restored and the hoardings come down. I’m happy to report that’s what we’ll finally be doing. Because it is a heritage-listed property, renewal of its façade does not come cheap. It’s for this reason we won’t be able to renew the internal space at this time. However, we will be working with our Council Property and Commercial leasing team to get advice and initiate discussions on future commercial use of the building once the property has been upgraded. We’ll also be complementing the renewal with informative signage that educates the public on the unique history of the building and surroundings. Kennedy Park is a fabulous public reserve, and if you haven’t been there before, choose it for your next day out.

The Local Board approved the design brief for the new Takapuna Library and Community Hub presented by Athfield Architects.

For those who know architecture, you’ll know the project is in good hands…

Lastly, I wanted to acknowledge that this is the final year of the local government triennium, with candidate nominations opening for the next election on 4 July. Given that Local Board business has only swung into action this month, that doesn’t leave much time left until the election madness begins. It’s an appropriate time to inform you that I won’t be standing in the next election, and in fact, I will be resigning as Chair and Board Member after the February business meeting on the 18th. My family has been presented with an exciting opportunity that we’ve decided to take, but this sees us moving away for a bit. Whilst it’s a huge disappointment for me not to finish the triennium, I know I leave a fabulous cohesive and collaborative board who will continue to represent the community with full commitment. It has been an absolute honour to chair the local board for the last two and a half years and be an elected member representing this community for nearly six years. I’ve learned huge amounts, made many new friends from all walks of life, and have consistently been floored by the passion and generosity each of you has for the place you call home and the people who share it with you. What a privilege it has been.

Toni

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

From DTLB Chair, Toni van Tonder

By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH

Healthy smiles and healthy hearts

As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is in the air, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on the connections between your oral health and your heart health.

At Mint Dental Hygiene in Takapuna, we believe that a healthy smile isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good, too. This Valentine’s Day, let’s explore how caring for your teeth can be a beautiful act of love for yourself and your loved ones.

The smile-heart connection

Research shows a strong link between oral health and cardiovascular health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which causes inflammation in the body. This inflammation has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions. Simply put, a healthy smile can help support a healthy heart, making your oral care routine a true act of self-care.

At Mint Dental Hygiene, we emphasise prevention and education to help our patients maintain a smile that radiates health and happiness. Our gentle yet thorough approach ensures you leave every appointment feeling refreshed, confident and ready to take on the world - or a romantic Valentine’s dinner.

Love your smile

This Valentine’s Day, why not give yourself or your partner the gift of a sparkling, healthy smile? Our one-hour teeth-whitening treatment is the perfect way to boost your confidence and make your smile shine. Pair it with professional cleaning, and you’ll be ready to flash those pearly whites during your date night or in all the selfies!

We also offer specialised care for periodontal health, which plays a key role in maintaining strong teeth and gums for years to come. After all, true love is about long-term commitment – just like good oral health habits.

A heartfelt reminder

This Valentine’s Day, let your smile reflect your love – for yourself, for your partner and for your health. Book your appointment at Mint Dental Hygiene and start your journey to a healthier heart and a brighter smile. Love starts with self-care, and there’s no better time to begin than now.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at Mint Dental Hygiene.

Nova Edgcombe

BSc, RDH

Dental

Mint Dental

424 Lake Road, Takapuna 021 2306517 info@mintdentalhygiene.co.nz mintdentalhygiene.co.nz

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

What is APD (Auditory Processing Disorder)?

Did you know you hear with your brain, not with your ears? While it is true that your ears collect sound waves, convert the signal and pass the info to your brain, it is your brain that helps identify and assign meaning to sound and focus your attention. APD (Auditory Processing Disorder) is when there are problems discriminating, identifying and comprehending auditory information.

The estimated prevalence of APD in children in New Zealand is around 6%, with higher rates in disadvantaged populations and the elderly. Research from the University of Auckland indicates that up to 30% of Pasifika children have this difficulty due to increased rates of childhood middle ear disease in this community. People with APD also frequently have problems with reading or spelling, and people who have other sensory or processing disorders may also have APD. It can affect learning and academic achievement, socialising and participation in group activities and career advancement. What are some signs of APD?

• Poor listening skills.

• Difficulty following spoken directions unless they are brief and simple.

• Difficulty understanding in the presence of other sounds or noisy, complex environments.

• Preference for loud television volume.

• Insensitivity to tone of voice or other nuances of speech. If you suspect a problem with auditory processing it is important to have a hearing test first to rule out hearing loss. APD testing is available with an audiologist who has additional training and access to special test materials and equipment.

Teresa Burns Hearing is proud to share we are now offering APD testing (age 7+), and paediatric hearing tests and wax removal (age 3+). Please get in touch if you would like more information or to book an appointment.

By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist

Breathing plays a vital role in both physical and mental health, acting as a bridge between the two

Breathing is pretty important. Prior to the pandemic, most people didn’t think much about it, but experiencing respiratory disease can give a great appreciation for the ability to breathe confidently. Breathing plays a vital role in both physical and mental health, acting as a bridge between the two.

Traditionally, when we consider breathing in the context of health it has tended to be cardiovascular exercise. Faster breathing is caused when the heart rate is increased, leading to enhanced oxygen delivery and improved overall endurance. The right type of cardiovascular exercise can burn calories, reduce your risk of health conditions, improve your mood and boost your energy. It has generally been considered that getting your heart rate up is a good thing.

Post-pandemic health advice about breathing has been a bit different. After a respiratory illness of any kind, it can be a delicate balancing act to get your health back on track. Cardiovascular exercise is still important, but if you do too much too soon after having Covid-19, you’re at risk of long-term Covid. The World Health Organization has published specific guidelines on graduated return to exercise. These relate to different levels of perceived exertion at different phases of recovery.

The pandemic has had a significant effect on the world’s mental health, largely due to the effects of stress, loneliness and isolation. Physical activity has always been recommended as part of the treatment for mental health difficulties, and the post-pandemic prescription has tended to include mindful movements such as tai chi, qigong and yoga. These movements bring attention to the breathing and can lead to a meditative state.

Controlling the breath is a powerful tool to switch off the body’s threat response and ease it out of the 'fight or flight' state. The opposite of this state is the 'rest and digest' state. This relaxation response is the optimal state in which to be for physical and mental health. It enables the body to recover and adapt after physical exercise and enables the mind to be resourceful and resilient in the face of psychological stress.

Sometimes it’s the infrastructure of breathing that needs some support. The framework can be compromised in a number of ways. Prolonged sitting compresses all the essential organs and compromises vital functions, particularly if accompanied by the forward head posture used when typing, scrolling, working or driving. A habit of shallow breathing can create tension and tightness across the chest, which can further promote shallow breathing.

A good weight training regime can strengthen the postural muscles in the upper back, stretch out tightness in the chest and build strength in the core to hold everything upright. Les Mills Pilates improves strength and mobility through the torso with a focus on breath work. Les Mills BodyBalance is a yoga-based class that incorporates Tai Chi and Pilates.

Want to meet people and be social?

Join in the fun at Takapuna Boating Club, right on Takapuna

Regular fixtures: Friday draw, dinners, quiz nights, Club Days

All ages welcome

Social and active membership

Social committee

New to the area? Come down and meet new friends

Time on your hands? Lots of opportunities to get involved

Receive 20% off at our member’s bar

For optimal physical and mental well-being, you need the control to speed up and slow down breathing as the situation requires. When you’re in good health, it’s important to regularly get your heart rate up with cardiovascular exercise. When you’re under stress, it’s important to be able to regulate your breathing to bring your body into a calm state. This range of capacity is not found by accident sitting at your desk. Healthy breathing is a skill, and it’s worth the investment to develop it.

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

39 The Str and, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz

Pack like a pro:

By Fantasia Nair

Your ultimate festival and gig survival kit

There’s nothing quite like the magic of a festival or gig! And now the season is upon us, it's good to be gig-ready!

But let’s be honest; nothing kills the vibe faster than realising you’ve forgotten something, left a must-have item at home or thought, “I should've brought that!” A missing phone charger, soggy sneakers or an outfit malfunction can turn your dream experience into a logistical nightmare.

From a young 'old pro', whether you’re gearing up for a weekend-long festival or a one-night gig, this guide is your backstage pass to packing smart. From must-have essentials to pro tips for surviving any weather, I'll make sure you’re ready to rave and revel with confidence!

FESTIVAL AND GIG MUST-HAVES

• Camping gear: A sturdy tent, sleeping bag, pillow and inflatable mattress will ensure you have a decent sleep. Don’t forget a mallet for those pesky pegs! Tip: lower the standards of having a good night's sleep!

• Portable charger: Your phone is essential for capturing photos, social media, and obviously calling friends who have wandered into the crowd, so keep it charged and ready to go!

• Air tag: On the topic of phones, there's nothing worse than losing a valuable item. So stock up on those air tags and tag away on basically everything!

• Water bottle: Feeling dehydrated is a burden to your festival fun. Most festivals don’t accept pre-filled water bottles but do offer refill stations, so I suggest packing empty drink bottles. Bonus – you won’t have to constantly line up for a sip of water.

• Gumboots: As we all know the weather is unpredictable! I cannot emphasise enough how devastating it is ruining your cute shoes in mud!

• Portable fan: Say no to feeling muggy and sweaty – that type of natural glow is not a

good look! You can get cute and affordable fans to use on the go when you start to feel the heat coming.

• A compact mirror: For the makeup gurus out there, most festivals don’t accommodate you with a boujee vanity, but there's nothing a mirror can’t fix. Simply prop it up against your tent, phone or friend, and you’re good to go.

• Poncho: Lightweight and easy to pack, this will save you from becoming a soggy mess. If you need it, then rock it!

• Sunscreen and hat: Don’t underestimate the power of the sun. Protect yourself from burns and heat exhaustion.

• Mini first-aid kit: Pain relievers, band-aids, blister pads and bug spray are festival lifesavers.

• Wet wipes and hand sanitiser: Festivals and gigs aren’t always the cleanest, so these will keep you fresh.

• Toiletries: Think toothbrush, deodorant and dry shampoo for festivals.

• Comfortable shoes: Sneakers are your best friend; they can elevate your look while allowing you to remain comfortable. You’ll thank yourself when dancing for hours!

• Compact cross-body bag: Your essentials need a place to go! Whether it’s your phone, wallet or keys – they need a place to go. Or just use your partner's pockets!

• ID and tickets: Obvious, but often overlooked in the excitement. Triple-check before you leave home.

• Statement outfit: Think glitter and funky patterns – something that will make you stand out!

• Bandanna or scarf: Really elevates your outfit, and doubles as sun protection.

• Sturdy accessories: Skip the delicate jewellery and go for pieces that can survive a mosh pit.

As great as the big, nationwide festivals are, you don't have to travel far to join in the live gig vibe. Here are some ideas for some upcoming local festivals and gigs you can go to:

• Europe’s premiere Tribute to Shania Twain – Spencer on Byron Hotel, Takapuna, 2 Feb

• Lucas Kewel and Friends – Birkenhead RSA, 4 Feb

• Rukus – Birkenhead RSA, 11 Feb

• Western Line, Ben Ridsdale Quartet –Birkenhead RSA, 18 Feb

• NZ's #1 ABBA Tribute Band, ABBA Heaven – Spencer on Byron Hotel, Takapuna, 22 Feb

• Dave MacRae & Joy Yates – Birkenhead RSA, 25 Feb

• A Day to Remember with special guests Hatebreed – Eventfinda Stadium, Wairau Valley, 25 Feb

• Auckland Sounds 2025 – Eventfinda Stadium, Wairau Valley, 27 Feb

• The Turing Project – Birkenhead RSA, 4 March

• Leaving Jackson, Johnny Cash & The Outlaws – Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna, 6 March

• Kristin Hersh – The Vic Theatre, Devonport, 20 March

• The Eagles Greatest Hits Show - Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna, 22 March

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.

Exceptional academic results for Kristin Senior School students

It has been a very positive start to 2025 for the Kristin community with some exceptional academic results received for our 2024 International Baccalaureate (IB) and NCEA students.

Starting with IB, Kristin students achieved a remarkable 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma. On top of this, 23 students (28% of candidates) scored 40 or more points – out of a possible 45 – which qualifies them as New Zealand IB Top Scholars. All IB Top Scholars from around New Zealand will be celebrated in a special ceremony in early 2025.

Kristin’s highest scorer was Nicole Wong, with a perfect score of 45 points, an incredible result which places her in the top 1% of students globally. We also had four students – Emma Gunn, Joey Li, Fiona Rogan and Randal Yao – gain a score of 43 points. The average diploma score for our students was 36 points, which is on par with our results in 2023.

In NCEA, the results were also outstanding. At Level 2, students achieved an

overall pass rate of 94%, with 84% getting endorsement at Excellence or Merit. At Level 3, students achieved a 96% pass rate, with 70% getting endorsement at Excellence or Merit. Overall, 95% of our NCEA students gained University Entrance (UE).

Further to this, 97% of our students (NCEA and International Baccalaureate (IB) combined) gained UE.

Reflecting on her perfect IB Diploma

score, Nicole Wong says, “I feel really good and relieved. I would definitely like to thank Kristin, especially all of my teachers and other staff. I feel that Kristin has been a really motivating and supportive community for me academically but also beyond that as well. Being able to pursue things like chamber music, debating and Maths Olympiad while also doing the IB Diploma was something that really fulfilled me holistically and allowed me to get to this point.”

Kristin Senior School Principal David Boardman says: “Once again, our students have done themselves, the school and the entire Kristin community proud with these remarkable results. Year after year, our students receive results that place them among the top students from across the world. It is fantastic to see these students rewarded for their hard work. We congratulate all of our IB Diploma and NCEA students from the class of 2024 on their incredible results and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”

David Boardman, Joey Li, Nicole Wong, Fiona Rogan, Emma Gunn and Randal Yao

Nicole Wong achieved a perfect IB score of 45

Why a girls’ school?

At Westlake Girls High School, we’re proud to be part of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS), which brings together research and expertise worldwide to highlight the benefits of single-sex education. For us, being a girls’ school is about creating a space where girls can thrive.

ICGS research shows that girls in singlesex schools are much more likely to achieve their academic potential and feel confident pursuing leadership roles, especially in areas like STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics). Graduates of girls’ schools are six times more likely to consider careers in

engineering and technology and three times more likely to pursue fields like medicine.

In classrooms designed just for them, girls feel free to take risks, speak up and engage fully in their learning. Without the distractions of a co-ed environment, they grow in confidence and develop the skills to excel at school and in life.

At WGHS, we see this daily - our students embrace challenges, support each other and leave us ready to make their mark on the world. A girls’ school isn’t just an education; it’s a foundation for a lifetime of success.

"Science says that girls do better at single-sex schools, but what the logic

of science fails to capture is the lived experience. We're allowed to grow and find ourselves with the unique support that an all-girls school provides. My confidence and boldness have been greatly increased by the encouragement and support of women that an all-girls school creates." - Julia Wilkins, Head Prefect Westlake Girls 2025.

"I very much enjoy being a student at an all-girls school. It provides safe spaces where I am comfortable talking about my life and sharing my opinions. It allows me to focus on my schoolwork as the social pressures are lessened.” – Anahera Petera, Deputy Head Prefect Westlake Girls 2025.

New Headmaster a Westlaker

Following a comprehensive international search, we are excited to announce that Paul Fordham has been appointed Headmaster at Westlake Boys High School.

It is the first time the school has appointed a Westlaker (2005) as Headmaster since its founding in 1962. Paul said it was a privilege and an honour to be appointed as the eighth Headmaster of Westlake Boys and that he is looking forward to forging the future of the school with the students we serve and the phenomenal teachers we have.

"This is an outstanding school which as we all know is achieving across the board at the highest level. However, I don't subscribe to complacency so I will be looking to continue with the wonderful work we are doing whilst also looking for innovations and developments which help us to be even better."

Paul Fordham succeeds David Ferguson who served as Headmaster for 15 years and took on a new role as CEO of the newly founded The Teachers Institute early last year.

Basketball squad tours the USA

In December, Westlake took a group of 34 basketball players to the United States for an unforgettable tour filled with incredible experiences on and off the court.

Our players competed in tournaments, with one junior team making the semifinals and a senior team finishing as runners-up after a hard-fought final. They also attended a coaching session with NBA legend JD DuBois and visited the

Chula Vista EWlite Athlete Training Center.

Off the court, highlights included attending an NBA game between the LA Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers, visiting Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Hollywood Boulevard, and taking in Universal Studios and Disneyland.

The group also toured San Diego, including Petco Park, the USS Midway, and the Unconditional Surrender statue,

spent time at the Pechanga Indian Reservation, and even caught an NHL game between the Anaheim Ducks and Winnipeg Jets.

To cap it all off, our students enjoyed a farewell dinner and an exclusive tour of the Intuit Dome, the future home of the LA Clippers.

A huge thanks to everyone who made this incredible experience possible.

Former Westlake student Paul Fordham has been appointed as the new Headmaster.

First XV place third in Abu Dhabi

We are extremely proud of our 1st XV rugby team, who secured third place at the World Schools Festival in Abu Dhabi in December.

The competition on the field was fierce, with all teams bringing the unique DNA of their respective countries.

Our first match was against England champions Harrow School. Both teams started nervously, but Westlake prop Alex Vaaia broke the deadlock with a powerful try. From there, Westlake took control and secured a 22-5 victory. Two days later, we faced Wales champions Llandovery College and delivered a strong performance, winning comfortably 21-5.

Our final pool game was against South African champions Paarl Gimnasium. With

Year 9s take up challenge

Our Year 9 students began their Westlake journey by attending a four-day camp on Motutapu Island. This was a chance for our new group of boys to step out of their comfort zone, make friends and learn new skills.

Three camps were held in January and students were split into groups according to their form class. The ferry picked up staff and students up from Devonport and dropped them off at Islington Bay from where they hiked 5.5km to the facility on Motutapu.

While on the island, each group participated in fun activities such as kayaking, raft building, climbing and obstacle courses with an emphasis on learning new skills, problem solving, and teamwork.

We hope they returned with life-long memories, new friendships and are ready to tackle challenges that lie ahead in their years in secondary school.

a spot in the final on the line, Westlake started strongly, but our opposition defended their try line fiercely. The South Africans held an 11-0 lead, but a penalty try late in the game gave Westlake hope. Despite a spirited finish by Westlake, Paarl Gimnasium held on to win 11-7.

In the third-place playoff, we faced England’s Millfield School and saved our best performance for last, winning 27-12.

We are incredibly proud of our players and coaching staff. Westlake is making its mark on the world stage, and while there’s still a long way to go, we will continue working hard for our community. We look forward to representing at future world events!

Rosmini students excel in History competition

Rosmini College Year 11 History students

Marlow Winder and Boyd Archibald have both been recognised in the 2024/2025 Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion Memorial Scholarship Video Competition.

Marlow’s entry entitled 'The Price of Citizenship' explored the historical significance of the 28th Māori Battalion in World War II and placed first in the bi-lingual section of the national competition.

Boyd’s entry entitled 'Te Aohau Kumeroa' recorded a biography of his tupuna who fought in the Māori contingent of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in World War I, placing second.

Both students received a congratulatory

letter from the Minister of Education, Erica Stanford, and have been awarded significant financial scholarships, as well as a payment to the college. It is hoped that this money can be used by the department to sponsor a visit to Te Papa and the National Archives in Wellington this year.

The Ngarimu competition honours the legacy of the famed Māori soldier, Te Moananui-a-kiwa Ngarimu, who gave his life in service during the Second World War. For his gallantry and sacrifice, Ngarimu was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the most prestigious award of the British honours system for "valour in the presence of the enemy.”

Prefects announced for 2025

At the end of the 2024 school year, Rosmini College announced its senior prefect team for 2025. Congratulations to the following students on their appointment, and we wish them the best for the coming year:

Head Boy - Joseph Wolfkamp

Deputy Head Boy - Te Wharekokowai Paora-Chamberlin

Catholic Character Leader - Rafael Austria

Academic Leader - Jairus Joseph

Music & Arts Leader - Lewis Leitner

Māori Leader - Benji Bryce

Pasifika Leader - Nate Tofilau

Sports Leader - Matthew Dalton

Rosmini hosts TOTCUS Symposium

Rosmini College recently hosted the second International TOTCUS (The Oceans That Connect Us) Symposium. Around 120 Rosmini students collaborated over Zoom with their peers from Finland, India, Vietnam, South Korea, Peru and Chile on a ten-minute presentation on an aspect of climate change and its impact on the physical or social environment.

This initiative allows students to research crucial climate issues while fostering important skills such as collaboration, empathy and respect for diverse cultures. It is particularly inspiring to witness intermediate students working and presenting alongside older participants, enhancing their learning experience and global awareness.

Students enjoy Australian water polo comp

The Trans Tasman water polo squad spent the final six days of the 2024 school year boarding at Knox Grammar School in Sydney, playing in the Australian vs New Zealand schools’ competition.

The tournament has a 25-year history and, with 20 schools (12 from Australia) competing, it was a fierce and exciting week of games. The Australian game is more physical and competitive than the New Zealand competitions, so it was excellent practice for the team for 2025.

The team came away with four wins and four losses and looks forward to North Shore schools hosting the event this year.

Marlow Winder Boyd Archibald

2024 Senior Prizegiving Major Award Winners

Best School Spirit Overall in Year 13 - Izzy

Recognition of Service as a School Prefect - Luke Burtenshaw Year 13 student worthy of Recognition for Service to the School - Kiefer Holliday

Bill An The Dux Cup Dux of the School

Connor Christensen June Spooner Award Proxime Accessit

Sam Moffitt June Spooner Award Proxime Accessit (IB)

Natia Tsulaia Summa Cum Laude Academic Excellence Year 13

Francheska Cruz Summa Cum Laude Academic Excellence Year 13

Mila White Summa Cum Laude Academic Excellence Year 13

Changning (Daniel) Li Summa Cum Laude Academic Excellence Year 13 (IB)

Gavin Wu June Spooner Award 1st in Year 12

April Liang June Spooner Award 2nd in Year 12

Lucy McCann June Spooner Award Academic Excellence Level 2

Jun Hyeong Lee June Spooner Award 1st in Year 11

Charlotte Crotty June Spooner Award 2nd equal in Year 11

Audrey Coxhead June Spooner Award 2nd equal in Year 11

Matthew Kirk June Spooner Award Academic Excellence Level 1

Izzy Milne Spooner Cup Best School Spirit Overall in Year 13

Holly Sherlock White Cup All Round Effort and School Spirit in Year 12

Nathan Fry Cleverdon Cup All Round Effort and School Spirit in Year 11

Luke Burtenshaw 2007 Prefects Cup Recognition of Service as a School Prefect

Kiefer Holliday 2013 Legacy Cup Year 13 student worthy of Recognition for Service to the School

Phuoc (Owen) Nguyen The PTA Inspiration Award Recognition of a student who has Persevered and showed Resilience to achieve Personal Excellence

Daniel Tepu Prentice Award For a student who has shown Significant Growth & Perseverance & continually sought Personal Excellence

Leo Dickinson Success Cup Special Education student who has Demonstrated Success

Philip Huang Daniel James Shield Individual excellence shown by a Special Education student.

Jessica Lusis Aroha Cup Special Education student who Demonstrated Strong Achievement

Aidan Simpkins Post Award Service to Kaupapa Māori

Mariah Parker Tony Steele Award Service to Kapa Haka

Eloise Thorne Argyle Award for Service Senior Leadership Award for Service

Anna Stevenson Argyle Award for Service Senior Leadership Award for Service

Thomas Bloom Argyle Award for Service Senior Leadership Award for Service

Milne

2024 Dux Bill An & Mrs Nixon

Summa Cum Laude Francheska Cruz

Proxime Accessit Connor Christensen All Round Effort and School Spirit in Year 11

Nathan Fry

Hyeong Lee

12 - Gavin Wu

Rangitoto College Head Students 2025

Rangitoto College is incredibly proud to announce our Head Students for 2025. A huge congratulations to Arnold Quhu, Eliana Heard, Nyla Spencer, and Zhan Bowden. We look forward to your guidance and leadership next year. These students will work alongside our new Deputy Head Students, Rosita Misipati, Olivia Taylor, Sione Naufahu, and Lyric Te Whetu. There are 36 students who are taking on the role as student leaders in various areas. We look forward to seeing their guidance and leadership.

High tea delicacy at the Knightsbridge Retirement Home

Our Year 10 food technology students spent their final weeks of school honing their high tea creation skills. These talented culinary students crafted a delicious spread for their teachers and the wider staff. To cap off their final day, they set up a decadent high tea display at the Knightsbridge Retirement Home. This event is part of the growing relationship between Knightsbridge and Rangitoto College, and is one we hope will continue to flourish in the years ahead.

Arnold Quhu, Eliana Heard, Nyla Spencer, and Zhan Bowden

Another year of outstanding IB results for Rangitoto College

Rangitoto College’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme has achieved incredible results yet again. The IB Diploma is an academically challenging international curriculum that strives to prepare students for the modern world. Students opt into the two-year Diploma programme in Years 12 and Year 13. It is internationally recognised and often stated as the gold standard of education. Once again our students performed well above the world average highlighting our successes against IB-exclusive schools worldwide.

Congratulations to our International Baccalaureate Top Achievers. These students are among the top 10% worldwide. The Rangitoto Premier Scholars who achieved IB43 are among the top 3% in the world.

Bilingual Diploma

We are incredibly proud of our students who achieved the prestigious Bilingual Diploma. These students study literature in two IB languages (English and one other).

• Luis Porto Monteiro (Portuguese)

• Yeonsu Na (Korean)

• Aida Mohammad (Malay)

• Alek Atanasovski (Macedonian)

• Amy Bai (Chinese)

• Nakita Lao (Chinese)

• Siwei Huang (Chinese)

International Baccalaureate Top Achievers for 2024 IB43

Alice Leader

Summer McClean Eileena Bao

International Baccalaureate IB42

Summer Bailey Guancheng (John) Cai

International Baccalaureate IB41 Yunshu (Amy) Bai

International Baccalaureate IB40 Yeonsu Na

Orlando Aguilera

Nathan Soehendra

Alice Leader

Eileena Bao

Summer McClean

Nathan Soehendra Gunagcheng Cai

Summer Bailey Yeonsu Na

Oralndo Aguilera Luis Porto Monteiro Aida Mohammad Ridwan Yunshu Bai

Alek Atanasovski Siwei Huang Nakita Lao

Carmel College Junior Prizegiving Awards 2024

Principal’s Award for academic excellence Sophia Railton

Year 8 Deans’ Cup Millie Upton

Year 7 Deans’ Cup Willa Dinwiddie

Year 9 Deans’ Cup Holly Rakena

Year 10 Deans’ Cup Charlotte Cullum

Tu Kohine for Maori leadership Ana Talilotu

Carol Livingston Memorial Award for embodying our core Mercy value Zoe Mena

Pasifika Award for leadership in the junior school Latai Tuitu’u

Dame Sister Pauline Engel Cup for living out our core Mercy value Michelle Warner

Eliza Jane Boland Cup for perseverence Emmy Bosley

Rebuilding the Takapuna Municipal Band, 1949-1954

By David Verran

Arthur Edward (Ted) Smith was re-elected at the May 1949 Takapuna Municipal Band AGM as president; Colin Palmer (19071951) as vice-president; George Ernest Durrant (1897-1965) as secretary; and Harry Marsh as treasurer. The recently appointed musical director, Reginald (Reg) Arthur Joslin (1909-1992), had previously served in Royal Marine bands.

In December 1949, some of the band's instruments were described as over 40 years old, pre-dating the band itself which was formed in 1923. A house-to-house canvassing campaign raised around 100 pounds in just over a fortnight, but 2,000 pounds were required to replace those instruments.

In early 1950, Joslin was appointed to Otahuhu College, and William Forrest took his place around April 1950. Forrest had been assistant bandmaster under his father in Ngaruawahia, while four of his brothers also played with their father in that band. Later, while serving in the army, Forrest was the bandmaster for the First Battalion of the Waikato Regiment.

Band instruments were still the main topic at the May 1950 AGM, with Mayor John Guiniven (1871-1957) recommending the band members themselves work hard to fundraise before approaching the Council for any money. Secretary Durrant reported that at the beginning of 1950 they had around 25 players. However, business pressures led to Forrest's resignation and deputy bandmaster Harry Marsh became acting bandmaster.

The band was described as a "boys' band", largely aged between eight and fifteen years with just a few older players. Marsh decided they refrain from public performances for around six months to build their strengths as performers. At that time, Takapuna Borough Council funded the band 60 pounds a year for public performances, along with providing access to Council vehicles.

By September 1950, the band had 20 players in training and important political support from the successful Takapuna mayoral candidate in 1950, Douglas Raymond Sheath (1911-1982). The band also resumed participating in Auckland provincial band contests, and in November 1950 won third place in the Hymn test, the only contest it entered. Many players had less than six months tuition before performing at that contest.

New secretary Stan Shannon headed the social committee and the band continued to advertise its services. In April 1951, it played at Albany, Browns Bay, Castor Bay and Windsor Reserve in Devonport and members were now outfitted with white shirts and red ties. A new set of instruments was on order, but full uniforms were needed.

In May 1951, Max Bird became drum major. He had also

played with the Auckland Artillery Band and the B grade Auckland Watersiders' Junior Band. At the Whanganui National Championships in 1947 Bird had won the New Zealand Medal for the drum major with the highest military points.

At the 1951 AGM the band now had 43 players. It liaised with the Takapuna Businessmen's Association, and Councillor Hugh Rae Hutcheson (1915-1980) was the borough representative on the band committee from 1950 to 1953. In July 1951 Hutcheson successfully secured a portable performing platform for the band and in September 1951 the long-awaited instruments finally became available.

In August 1952 Fay Marsh represented the band in the Miss North Shore quest, while in December 1952 around 60 people attended a "family evening" at the band room. Harry Christensen (1893-1963) signalled his return to the band by acting as competition judge and was also guest conductor.

The May 1953 AGM was adjourned for lack of support and when a meeting was able to be held, a debit balance was noted in the instrument account. J Ritson became vice-president, replacing A Reid who had become vice-president on Palmer's death. G W Stringer became secretary and Leo Steve Dromgoole (1912-1993) became treasurer.

In 1954, the band raised 741 pounds at the North Shore Industries Fair to help pay the instrument debt and re-equip the band room. The band also began to form both senior and junior bands. In October 1954, the Takapuna Municipal Band participated in a display at Takapuna Grammar School, with over 3,000 in attendance. This was repeated in November 1954.

david.verran@xtra.co.nz

T1954, courtesy of Auckland Libraries Heritage Collection, the Takapuna Municipal Band in the 1950s.

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.

Trusts and tax: The bill that could have been avoided

Kathy’s husband, Jack, had passed away three years ago. She and Jack had a trust which owned their family home, a small commercial unit which was rented out and an investment portfolio with a reputable investment advisory company. Kathy and Jack had two sons: one, Mark, lived in Australia with his wife and children; the other son, Glen, lived in Auckland near Kathy. Glen was not that financially secure. He had some difficulties which made him very vulnerable – he was not good with money and there had been many instances over the years where he had been taken advantage of.

When Jack died, Kathy did think about winding the trust up. Their initial reason for setting the trust up was because of their business interests. Their accountant had recommended a trust to give them some tax flexibility and protection if something went wrong in the business that Jack had been a director of. Those reasons were no longer relevant, but Kathy really wanted to make sure that Glen was protected if she died. She knew that if he received money directly it wouldn’t last, and given the amount that was in the trust, it would be a significant sum of money just wasted.

Kathy went to see the lawyer who she and Jack had used over the years. She said that she was going to retain the trust, but it was really just a vehicle to make sure that Glen would be protected if she died. She said that she didn’t think she needed an independent trustee and that her preference would be for Mark to be appointed as a trustee as he would be able to look after the funds for Glen if she died. The lawyer drew up the paperwork and Mark was appointed as a trustee.

After that Kathy decided that she would like to sell the commercial property. She was receiving enough income from the investment portfolio, and she thought it would be a good opportunity to use the funds to help the boys out. Mark had a large mortgage on his property in Sydney and half the value of the commercial building would be enough to buy an apartment for Glen. The property was put on the market, sold and the trust made the distribution to Mark. The trust purchased the apartment for Glen and he and his partner moved in.

A few months later Mark called Kathy, distraught. He had been issued with a large tax bill from the Australian Tax Office – the Australian equivalent of the Inland Revenue. The distribution to him from the trust was taxable in Australia, and he was now facing a bill equal to 45% of the amount that the trust had distributed to him. Kathy got in touch with her accountant who said yes, he had heard something about distributions from New Zealand trusts to Australian beneficiaries being taxable in Australia. He said that in the past some of this would have slipped through, but with the new disclosure rules in New Zealand and information sharing between the international revenue departments it is likely that these things would be picked up. He was also concerned to hear that Mark was a trustee of the trust, as this meant that the trust would also be pulled into the Australian tax net and that it was possible that there would be capital gains tax to pay in Australia on the sale of the commercial building. He also said that there could be a tax bill for the trust relating to any capital gains and/or exchange gains in the investment portfolio.

Kathy was panicking by this stage. Her accountant recommended to her to urgently go and get some specialist tax and trust advice. He said that her lawyer was obviously a general practitioner and while a nice person had overlooked the complexities around overseas beneficiaries and trustees.

The rules relating to overseas beneficiaries and trustees of trusts are changing all the time and it is imperative that you receive specialist advice before taking any action in this area. Kathy’s good intentions of protecting Glen’s inheritance ended up having huge financial consequences that could have been avoided if she had been given the right advice from those experienced in this area.

Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law

New Zealand Trusts And Overseas Tax Implications.

Trusts are invaluable asset protection mechanisms, which allow a person to hold property and assets on behalf of another for the good of the beneficiaries.

However, if you have beneficiaries or trustees that are tax residents overseas, there needs to be careful planning and structuring to avoid unintended tax consequences. Laws around trusts and tax are not the same overseas as they are in New Zealand.

Contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist asset structuring and planning advice.

Thrive in ’25

– could an M&A strategy be right for you?

There is no way to dress it up and sugar coat things – calendar year 2024 was tough. High inflation led to rising costs, reduced demand, high interest rates, high stock levels, slow-paying debtors, tight working capital, and difficulty raising extra funds. We saw the highest level of business insolvency events since the GFC, and there are likely to be more to come. The message of “Survive to ‘25” was everywhere, but we believe things are going to get tougher before they improve. By mid-2024, we were telling everyone that simply surviving to 2025 was not enough—you need a plan to survive through 2025. Depressed yet? Fear not, read on…

Crisis breeds opportunity

Yes, it has been a tough reset, and yes, there is more to come, but our economy needed it. For too long, we had been living off debt in an environment of falsely high levels of demand and an extremely tight labour market. We have now entered the natural cyclical nature of an economy, so we need to cut our cloth to make ends meet. Things will improve; it is just a matter of time.

With every crisis, doors close—but many opportunities arise. You just need to be open to looking for them and be in the right mindset to tackle a project and create a competitive advantage. The opportunities will arise in many different forms, including:

• Trimming costs and right-sizing your organisation

• Renegotiating supply terms and pricing

• Speeding up your working capital cycle

• Picking up business from competitors as they falter

• Renegotiating banking arrangements

• Acquiring other businesses

Mergers and Acquisitions: A Key Opportunity for Growth Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have long been strategic avenues for growth in businesses worldwide, including New Zealand. Whether you're looking to expand market share, gain a competitive advantage, or diversify products and services, M&A can provide transformative opportunities.

For the last decade, M&A activity was high, particularly in the small to mid-market private companies—generally with an enterprise value of $3m to $50m. Valuations and multiples peaked during 2023 but sharply reduced in 2024, driven by reduced risk appetite from acquirers, higher cost of funds and difficulty in raising cash, which narrowed the purchasing pool significantly.

We see 2025 as the year for M&A activity for mid-market businesses that have weathered the storm, built resilience, and have the balance sheet to grow. Crisis creates opportunity—many businesses that simply survived to 2025 will now have thin balance sheets and may not be able to fund growth as the year progresses. This means selling becomes an attractive option. With increased supply of business opportunities and weak demand from potential purchasers, we are bound to see continued pressure on multiples, creating an opportunity for cashed-up buyers.

Proceed with Caution

While we are excited about the opportunities coming through the pipeline (and we have already seen that pipeline growing), these opportunities come with complex financial and tax implications that must be navigated with care.

Before engaging in any process, conduct a robust strategic planning

Accountancy with Matt Bellingham of Bellingham Wallace

exercise and identify exactly where and how you want to grow. This exercise should be detailed—even down to compiling a list of acquisition targets. Be aware that those willing to sell are likely to have reasons for doing so. It could be succession or health issues, underperformance, or seeing the writing on the wall. Don’t rule out any businesses—it’s about understanding what needs to be done to improve it, support it with additional capital, or integrate it into existing operations and reduce costs.

It All Comes Down to the Deal!

Here are our top 5 tips on negotiating the deal:

1. Understand the Quality of Earnings. Earnings need to be sufficient and of ongoing quality to provide a return on investment and generate cash flow to repay debt. Vendors often focus on high multiples of earnings, but if those earnings are inflated or minimal, the business may not be worth what the vendor expects. Understanding underlying earnings and ensuring they will continue into the future is critical. Form a view on any normalisations the vendor or their agent may have made in the Information Memorandum.

2. Identify the Risks. Early identification of risks helps form a valuation view, but nothing replaces solid due diligence. This includes financial statements, outstanding liabilities, contracts and agreements, and tax compliance.

Failing to assess these areas can result in unforeseen challenges, reducing the merger or acquisition’s value.

3. Evaluate the Opportunities and Synergies. M&A often aims to realise synergies—cost savings or revenue enhancements from combined operations. However, not all synergies are immediate. Key considerations include cost synergies, revenue synergies, and integration costs.

Conduct a detailed analysis of expected synergies and integration costs to create a realistic financial model and avoid overestimating benefits.

4. Get the Deal Structure Right. Structuring the acquisition as either an asset or share purchase has different tax implications.

5. Understand Your Financial Ability to Complete the Deal. Financing is critical in M&A activity. Prior to starting, run your business through a debt capacity financial model to identify additional debt capacity. Apply the same to the target business to determine the merged entity’s maximum manageable debt level. This ensures you’re financially prepared and aligned with bank lending requirements.

Navigating M&A with Confidence

Mergers and acquisitions offer exciting growth opportunities but come with significant financial and tax considerations. By conducting thorough due diligence, understanding tax implications, carefully selecting financing options, and planning for post-merger integration, businesses can position themselves for long-term success.

A window of opportunity is opening—be ready to take advantage. At Bellingham Wallace, we have extensive experience guiding New Zealand businesses through the complexities of M&A. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your M&A strategy and help your business grow.

Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz

By Alison Dymond

-

Director.

Ali is an experienced lawyer and leads the Property and Commercial team at Schnauer and Co. Ali approaches legal issues with a pragmatic mindset, striving to secure the most suitable business-oriented resolutions for her clients. Her passion for aiding others shines through, and collaborating with her clients to attain their objectives brings her a genuine feeling of accomplishment.

New year, new property market?

Dual pathways offer our Kristin students choice

Kristin has been thrilled to start the new year with the positive news of our class of 2024’s academic results, and it has been especially pleasing to hear from many of these students who are delighted with their results and excited for what comes next in their lives.

As 2025 begins, New Zealand’s property market shows some signs of stabilising after years of volatility. House prices, especially in Auckland, have seen significant corrections since their 2021 peak, while tighter financial conditions continue to impact buyer activity. Speculation about a potential drop in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) in February has sparked debate about its effect on house prices and opportunities for first-home buyers.

The current market landscape: Nationwide, house prices have declined 15-20% from their peak, with sharper drops in some Auckland suburbs. While this has improved affordability, higher mortgage rates remain a barrier for many. Sales activity was subdued in the last quarter of 2024, with both buyers and sellers seeming to take a “waitand-see" approach. Rising construction costs and passive investor activity also helped to put a dampener on the property market.

For first-home buyers, lower house prices present opportunities, but stricter lending criteria and borrowing costs also pose challenges.

What a drop in the OCR could mean: If the RBNZ lowers the OCR in February (and it appears likely that it will), such a move could reduce mortgage rates and reignite property market interest for the following reasons:

1. Lower rates may boost buyer demand, stabilising prices or triggering modest gains, particularly in Auckland and major centres. Jarrod Kerr, the chief economist at Kiwibank has stated that falling interest rates will support the property market, and he expects steady gains in house prices will flow from there;

2. reduced borrowing costs may attract investors, creating competition for first-home buyers; and

3. lower rates could improve the borrowing capacity for those with stable incomes and sufficient deposits, but affordability challenges may persist in high-demand areas.

What this means for first home buyers: The outlook for first home buyers depends on broader economic factors, including wage growth, labour market conditions, and lending criteria. While lower interest rates could ease credit conditions, other challenges remain (for example, the last ANZ Bank Property Focus for 2024 identified that a recovery in the property market faces headwinds this year, including deteriorating labour market conditions, slowing population growth, and stretched affordability).

In general: New Zealand’s property market is poised for a potential shake-up. A drop in the OCR could breathe new life into buyer activity and ease pressure on mortgage holders, but first-home buyers could face a tricky balancing act. The coming months will reveal whether this marks the start of a housing revival along with a prime opportunity for some to refinance under better interest rate conditions.

Schnauer & Co, 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177

schnauer.com

All these students worked incredibly hard throughout their time at Kristin, both in and out of the classroom, and it is always rewarding for them, their families, Kristin teachers and staff and our entire community when the results reflect this hard work.

Kristin’s Senior School offers dual academic pathways so students can choose the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme or NCEA. For the 2024 academic year, student achievement was high for both IB and NCEA.

Highlights included having a student achieve a perfect IB score of 45 out of 45 points, which placed her among the top 1% of students globally. Overall 28% of eligible Kristin students taking the IB Diploma gained 40 or more points, which qualifies them as IB Top Scholars. Incredibly this year we had a 100% pass rate across our entire cohort of IB Diploma students. In NCEA, students achieved a 94% pass rate at Level 2 and a 96% pass rate at Level 3. Across all of our NCEA and IB students, 97% gained University Entrance (UE).

The great thing about offering two pathways is that it gives students the choice to opt for the qualification that best suits them.

The IB is a global curriculum and students choosing this pathway undertake a two-year Diploma Programme that starts in Year 12. This qualification focuses on inquiry-based learning where students learn through investigating, testing and asking questions. The core philosophy is around developing global perspectives, an international mindset, an understanding of cultural diversity and building critical thinking skills. There is also a strong focus on service and developing an altruistic mindset. Students opting for IB study six subjects including their first language, a second language, science, mathematics and a humanities or commerce subject. Students choose their sixth subject from the arts or they can do an additional science or humanities subject.

It is a rigorous qualification that builds a broad knowledge and skill base, developing graduates who are inquirers, knowledgeable, critical thinkers, principled, open-minded, caring and reflective.

Typically half our students opt to take IB and as an IB World School, Kristin has been offering the IB Diploma since 1986. It was the first school in New Zealand to do so and was also the first IB Continuum School. Today we have the largest number of students following IB programmes in New Zealand.

NCEA is also a rigorous academic qualification, with one of its greatest strengths being the flexibility around the subjects that students can choose from. Students taking NCEA can opt to study all three science subjects, for example. There is also flexibility in the way students study and are assessed, with a mixture of internal assessments and external examinations.

Both curricula prepare students well for life beyond school and are highly regarded by universities here and overseas. Kristin has a proud record of students being awarded scholarships at UK and US universities including Cambridge, Oxford, Stanford and Yale, as well as excellent universities across Australia and New Zealand.

Which pathway to take is the question we are asked the most as students approach their final years of schooling. The answer lies with the individual, their strengths, their interests and their aspirations beyond school. This is the greatest benefit of being able to offer choice for our students at Kristin.

By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation

Family pay it forward to help others at North Shore Hospital

When Yaminah and Simon Jones welcomed their two children into the world they were overjoyed. However, within a few days they were faced with the challenge of having a newborn with jaundice and needed to spend an extended period in North Shore Hospital's maternity ward while treatment was provided and their precious baby recovered.

Determined to pay it forward, Yaminah and Simon approached the hospital with a heartfelt mission: to support other families whose newborns develop jaundice. After consulting with medical professionals to find out what was needed, they made a generous donation to fund specialised equipment and innovative technology for treating jaundice, including a new incubator, specialised blue lights, a biliSoft blanket and advanced diagnostic devices called bilirubinometers, to enable less invasive screening for jaundice.

Their contribution has already begun transforming care in the special care baby unit, giving newborns a better chance at recovery and easing the stress for families. "We’ll never forget the care we received," said Yaminah. "This is our way of ensuring other families feel the same hope we did." Simon added, "Every baby deserves the best start in life, and we’re proud to be part of making that possible."

The Well Foundation continues to support the special care baby unit (SCBU) at North Shore Hospital and is currently seeking donations to purchase new advanced monitoring equipment. Anyone who wishes to support the hospital's littlest patients is encouraged to donate online via wellfoundation.org.nz/donate – thank you.

Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere hospitals.

Well Foundation, 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz

Younite in 2025!

Kia ora koutou katoa,

Our names are Rachel Gu and Laura Mackenzie, and we are both privileged to be serving as the Younite chairs for 2025! As you may have seen in the community over the past few years, Younite has been actively promoting youth engagement and empowerment through various events and social gatherings. However, if you are not already familiar with Younite, let us reintroduce exactly who we are and what we do.

Younite is the youth council for the Takapuna-Devonport Local Board. Our team is made up of rangatahi from local schools, aged 15-24, all of whom are passionate about creating change in the community. Our mission statement is: “Encouraging selfexpression, amplifying youth voices, and fostering a community where rangatahi can succeed.” In alignment with the council’s vision, we will be focusing on “Our people, Our environment, Our community, and Our places.” We’re so excited to have you join us in 2025!

Here’s a welcome from our chairs:

Hi! I’m Rachel (she/her)! I’m a Year 13 student at Rangitoto College and have been a member of Younite since early 2024. A little about me – I’m super-passionate about empowering youth and creating a positive impact in the local community, and I’m a huge Swiftie! I’m so excited to work alongside Laura as chair for 2025, and I can’t wait for the amazing journey ahead! “Are you ready for it…” – Taylor Swift.

In alignment with the council’s vision, we will be focusing on “Our people, Our environment, Our community, and Our places.” We’re so excited to have you join us in 2025!

Kia ora, I’m Laura (she/her)! I’m currently a Year 12 student at Westlake Girls High School and am beyond excited to be serving as one of Younite’s chairs for 2025, alongside Rachel. I’ve been a member of this board since late 2023, and I’ve lived in the Takapuna-Devonport area for most of my life. I’m also an absolute bookworm and love spending time with friends and family. This year, I’m extremely excited to meet the new people joining Younite and to collaborate with them in empowering rangatahi in our lovely community!

If you ever have any queries or would like to contact us, please feel free to email us at younitechair@gmail.com. You can also find us on Instagram using our handle: @Younitedt.

Yaminah and Simon Jones, Michelle Goldfinch, Well Foundation and Tina Saltmarsh, Nurse Unit Manager, Special Care Baby Unit

By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager

Sunnynook Community Centre in full swing for the New Year

During December 2024 we had a fabulous Christmas Family Bike Ride around Sunnynook Park and three fabulous days of a pre-Christmas holiday programme in which we were thrilled to be able to make use of the Hungerball and Kiwi Bubble Soccer that was provided for the public (funded by Auckland Council).

During January 2025 we ran a very busy holiday programme and youth programme at the Sunnynook Community Centre and Kennedy Park. Highlights were trips to Crystal Mountain, Kelly Tarltons, Auckland Zoo, Chelsea Sugar factory and checking out the swimming area on the viaduct before a trip to the Maritime Museum and sailing on the Ted Ashby while the Sail GP boats were warming up!

We have had a meeting with Community Sergeant, Chris Lindsay. At this meeting we talked about the fact that we are really missing having a Community Constable in Sunnynook and are hoping that there is more of a police presence in the area during 2025. Chris has asked that we remind local residents that we need to be logging issues through 105. However, if it is an emergency or happening now, call 111. If it has already happened use 105.

Our Community Centre is once again heavily booked for 2025, there are dance classes, language classes, exercise classes, support groups, children’s after school activities, groups for elderly, art classes and more. Please check out our website which will have all the up-to-date information on it. Our walking group has been meeting throughout January.

Don’t forget you can hire the Kennedy Park Observation Post, in Beach Road, Castor Bay for children’s birthday parties, baby showers, family lunches etc. Limited to 35 people, no alcohol, it is a great location for a small get together.

If you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our community newsletters please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz.

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability

Yes Disability and I.Lead are ready to make 2025 our year!

After the success of I.Lead’s 2024 conference, along with the success of our other programmes, we are excited to jump into a whole new year of sharing our services with disabled youth.

This month our National I.Lead committee has its first meeting of the year. At this meeting, the committee will focus on refining the details for our I.Lead 2025 conference, which will be hosted in Wellington. Like last year, this youth-led conference will provide a safe, stable platform for disabled youth aged 18-30 to have their voices heard and influence positive changes in policy.

This national committee will meet a minimum of times this year, enabling members aged 16-30 from across the country to collaborate on nationwide I.Lead projects. Our national I.Lead committee includes Amy (Committee Chair), Jaden (Deputy Chair), Niah, and Naomi from Auckland, Eleanor, Sarah, and Kate from Waikato, Megan from Wellington, Jack from Christchurch, Libby (Committee Secretary) and Oak from Dunedin, and Taylah (Committee Secretary) from Blenheim. These members will represent their respective regional committees on a national level.

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.

YES Disability will continue 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, and thes group aims to normalise the discussion of mental health challenges among disabled men. The sessions will occur once a month. Interested? Email Abdulla at abdulla@yesdisability.org.nz.

There is just a month left of this intake of the William Pike Challenge! Our next intake will be in March, allowing a new group to experience adventure in the outdoors! I.Lead WPC participants (all with various ability levels) will be encouraged to get inspired by the outdoors; building their resilience, wellbeing, confidence, and skills through outdoor adventures, community service, and passion projects. Want to find out more about I.Lead’s William pike challenge? Find out more via our social media.

For more information about our programmes and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz/ • facebook.com/ileadconferencenz instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • tiktok.com/@i.lead linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org

sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.

By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager

Devonport's festival spirit

The first weeks of the new year can be a rather subdued period in town centres across Auckland with so many local families getting away for a break over the school holiday period.

Devonport village fairly exploded into life on the middle weekend of January with the coincidence of Tāmaki Makaurau’s inaugural hosting of the global SailGP competition regatta, and the first major festival our harbourside village has hosted in decades.

Promoted by Highlife Entertainment, Sunsetter Festival has become a regular summer feature on the North Shore events roster, with previous years’ iterations held at open grassy venues including Smales Farm and North Harbour Domain. While it has a restricted footprint, meaning smaller crowds, Devonport’s Windsor Reserve is a picturesque jewel in the crown of the peninsula’s parks, sitting as it does next to a delightful inner harbour beach and populated with shade-providing pōhutukawa trees.

For festival organiser Adam Bennett, it was a long-held goal to bring this one-day dance music event to Devonport, and this summer’s fantastic spell of weather meant it fully lived up to the ‘sunsetter’ celebration promise.

Bennett describes the festival as a huge success with the 2,400 well-behaved party people attending, the majority aged between age 35 to 65, creating a really nice vibe. Carefully fenced to ensure that access to the waterfront pathway and the kids’ playgrounds remained freely available, he says the Windsor Reserve space worked well and could comfortably hold 2,500 in the future.

Dulcie and Vic Road Kitchen were among local businesses providing food to festival goers, and several more of Devonport’s hospitality venues took advantage of the festival’s 9pm closing time to offer after-party DJ entertainment. Happy crowds carried on partying from the top of the village to the bottom, with dancing on the deck outside Signal Hill, in front of Tiny Triumphs and on the ferry wharf beside The Kestrel.

In tandem with the finals day of SailGP yacht racing right in front of the grandstand crowds in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, the buzz continued into a busy Sunday for Devonport, making it a weekend to savour.

Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz

By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead

ANCAD’s community Funding Forum launches in February online and it’s FREE!

Hear directly from funders

ANCAD’s FREE Funding Forum 2025 on Zoom on 27 February, 10am to 12pm is your opportunity to hear directly from funders, learn about available funding opportunities and get your questions answered. Don’t miss this valuable chance to connect with funders and gain insights into securing financial support for your organisation. This Funding Forum will have speakers from the Department of Internal Affairs, Perpetual Guardian, Public Trust NZ and others. To register, go to LiiFT.nz

Don’t miss this valuable chance to connect with funders and gain insights into securing financial support for your organisation.

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 at www.LiiFT.nz for more information about online and in-person workshops.

Coming up in February

11 February - Governance Matters Session 1: The difference between governance and management. 6.30pm to 7.45pm on Zoom. Cost FREE. 20 February - Strategic grant-seeking and writing in-person workshop in Takapuna. 9.30am to 12.30pm. Cost $80.

26 February - Resourcing leaders in times of change Module 1: Futureproof your leadership – trends and challenges in 2025. Cost $45.

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

financial year in style

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!).

Too much wind… too many lights… and too much rubbish!

With Mr G having a lot on in January (???) he was unable to provide us with a column. He’s promised to be back with a very special column for March, though! So this month, the task was once again delegated to one of his old mates from down the pub. His mate must surely be related though as he’s also got a bad case of the grumbles!

I don’t know about you, but I’m sick of the wind. For those of us who love to get out on the water, January was pretty lumpy. Let’s hope the rest of the summer settles down so we can all get out and put our rods in the water more regularly. And I don’t know about you again, but I’m sick of those traffic lights that let cars onto the motorway. They tell me that they are designed to make the traffic flow better onto the motorway, but I reckon they just totally shag things up, making traffic worse rather than better. There are many examples I can give of where this happens, both on the Shore and on the other side of the bridge. Often the light phasing is very slow and all that happens is traffic banks up on the feeder roads to the motorway. Traffic light lunacy!

…the disappearing rubbish bins are really starting to get on my bits. There’s clearly a school of thought that people should be taking their rubbish home.

My challenge to the powers that be, the clever folk at Auckland Transport or NZTA (?), is to produce some proof of how these lights make things better. To me, they seem to be wasting a lot of time and result in vehicles idling for long periods, burning CO2 – not good for the environment. Try getting on the Northcote Road onramp going

north by the golf course at 3.30pm on a busy day. Try getting on the Harbour Bridge at Curran Street in the city when the lights are on there. Often, these lights are causing the Esmonde Road backup as well. GGGGrrrrr!

While I’m grumbling (like Gundry), the disappearing rubbish bins are really starting to get on my bits. There’s clearly a school of thought that people should be taking their rubbish home. I bet the grown-up people who make these decisions still believe in Santa Claus! One of the key reasons we pay our exorbitant rates is to have these services so our parks, reserves, beaches and neighbourhoods remain tidy.

My mail from a very reliable source is that this is happening just to save money, being driven by the bean counters at councils as a "lever to pull." This is wrong, wrong, wrong! These councils need to get back to providing important core services like this and doing less of the flowery stuff. We must have plenty of rubbish bins in our parks, reserves and beaches!

On a positive note, how good was the SailGP event held by Westhaven in mid-January?! Mr Wind blew its bits off, and the city was buzzing. The massive temporary stadium provided a great vantage point for the sensational yachting. The only thing to disappoint was the performance of the New Zealand boat. They must have had something wrong, surely. On the Sunday, they were never in it.

The success of this event in the middle of the city lends weight to the thinking behind ditching Eden Park and building a national stadium down there. But I’ll leave that discussion for another issue, for the next time the very Honourable Simon Gundry goes AWOL!

Have a great February!

with Lindsay Knight

Browns Bay setting the bar high

The Browns Bay Bowling Club, following its success early last month as headquarters for the Summerset national championship singles and pairs, must be on any short list to be named as 'club of the year'.

Hosting the nationals came on top of what club president Pete Sheehan describes as, “A very hectic past three and a half months for the club.” Earlier in the season Browns Bay had also been the headquarters for Bowls North Harbour’s Masters tournament, and then in early December the world champion of champion singles. This all coincided with the normal club activities and events, including its thriving business-house competition.

Sheehan was both proud and grateful for the big effort from the club’s volunteers in catering, manning the bar, preparing facilities and above all, the work of award-winning green-keeper Brendon Kelly and his team. In a fitting tribute to Kelly, Sheehan said the winner of the world men’s world title, Australian Lee Schraner, had described the Browns Bay greens as being “as good as any he had played on anywhere.”

Both the world championships and the nationals had been telecast on both YouTube and on Sky Television, attracting good audiences. That exposure said Sheehan, “had show-cased why bowlers from all over love to play at Browns Bay.”

BNH board chairman, Tony Popplewell also praised Browns Bay for its mighty effort in staging so many important events, and also those other Harbour clubs who had been back-ups. These included Birkenhead, Helensville, Mairangi Bay, Milford, Riverhead and Takapuna. The feedback from visiting bowlers on the work of those clubs’ volunteers, the hospitality and facilities they had provided had been extremely positive, Popplewell said - “They all deserve a pat on the back.”

One other notable aspect of the national championships was its graphic illustration of the sport’s diversity which exists across ethnic backgrounds, disabilities, families, and age groups, and as a superb therapeutic exercise. The women’s pairs finalists were a good example, with champions Olivia Bloomfield and Lisa Prideaux both of Niue Island and Māori ancestry, while the two they beat, Ashleigh Jeffcoat and Henrietta Scott, represented youth, one in her mid-20s, the other just 20.

At the world championships, the growth of Pacific bowls was also shown when Birkenhead’s Millie Nathan represented Tonga to win the women’s singles. Youth was again to the fore with Liam Hill, just 15, making the men’s singles semi-finals, and Adam Baillie, 22, winning the disabilities singles title. Profoundly deaf since he was born, Baillie won the 2023 world deaf title and with his skill and athleticism, would be a match for even the best able-bodied bowlers. He has a considerable sporting pedigree, as the great-nephew of one of the celebrated Lydiard-trained runners of the 1960s, Bill Baillie. The family aspect came in the men’s pairs when Liam Hill’s uncle, Jamie, partnered Lance Pascoe to repeat their 2021 championship success, giving former Black Jamie his gold star for winning five national titles.

Maturity came in the women’s singles with both finalists, Waikato’s Deb White, the champion for a second time, and Wendy Jensen, from the Takapuna club, in their early 60s. And bowls’ extraordinary ability to produce unexpected results was shown in the men’s singles final when an unknown Aucklander Matt Berry, who has never represented his centre or won a centre title, upset Dunedin’s Keanu Darby, who has just been selected in the Black Jacks for this month’s trans-Tasman series.

bowlsnorthharbour.com

Adam Baillie (left) the winner of the disabled singles at the Summerset national championships. He is great-nephew of the great runner of the 1960s, Bill Baillie.

Succession underway at Benefitz

Change is in the air at Benefitz, publishers of Channel Magazine. The company’s succession programme is well underway, with the retirement of two long-serving shareholders in 2024, along with the emergence of two new shareholders.

During 2024, both Dallas Bennett and Robert Johnson retired from the business. Dallas had spent 35 years in the business and Robert also had over three decades of involvement with the North Shore based business.

As a result of these retirements Blake Douglas and Rob Gunston have become shareholders in the business. They join founders Aidan and Michelle Bennett and long-term shareholder Mike Nolan as owners.

Rob Gunston has been with Benefitz for 14 years. He has a strong creative and IT

background in both the UK and New Zealand. Rob became general manager of Benefitz in 2016 and plays an important part in the day-to-day management of the company that includes 70 people. Rob is married to Kay, they have one daughter, Emily, who is studying at Auckland University.

Blake Douglas has been with Benefitz for over 20 years, starting as a driver and working in just about every production area of the diverse business before becoming an account manager. He now leads the sales team at Benefitz and plays an important part in the overall management of the business. Blake is married to Kellie, and they have two young children, son Rocco (7) and daughter Stevie (4).

“It is an exciting time for our business with younger people starting to take the helm,”

says founder and managing director Aidan Bennett. “Both Dallas and Robert played an integral part in the success of the business over a long period, and they will be missed. But the injection of the fresh energy that both Rob and Blake are providing is important for our future. They know our business inside and out, and as they have been with us for a long time, they share our ethos and values. As such, we will remain a family business that is committed to integrity, innovation, as well as our people and community.”

Visit: benefitz.co.nz

We’re looking for versatile writers

The team at Benefitz and Channel Magazine is looking for help with writing for both the monthly magazine and other projects the business is involved in.

This contract role would suit those with proven writing experience looking for part-time work, or work to supplement other income. Ideal applicants will be based on the North Shore and involved in the community.

For Channel Magazine, the work would include writing engaging monthly feature articles, as well as a variety of other commercial and non-

commercial copy required for this chunky monthly magazine. Being proficient at proofreading would be of great benefit, too. You would be working with the publisher and magazine content coordinator. Additional writing work would be businessrelated for client work and publications produced by Benefitz.

If you are interested in this opportunity contact Aidan Bennett, phone 021-500-997 or email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz.

Rob Gunston and Blake Douglas

AUCKLAND FC – YOUR NEW HOME TEAM!

Powered by Benefitz printing and signage solutions

Benefitz, publishers of Channel Magazine, are thrilled to be working with Auckland’s exciting new football club as their printing and signage partner.

If there was a blueprint for setting up a new professional sports club then Auckland FC looks to be about perfect. The world's biggest game, wealthy and successful owners with proven track records, topped off with an enthusiastic and experienced management team. Tick, tick, tick!

That has proven to be the case with Auckland FC kicked off with a 2-0 win against Brisbane in their debut A-League match held at Go Media (Mt Smart) Stadium on Saturday 19 October, and now, three months on as we write this, sitting top of the A-League in their first season.

Benefitz has played a significant part during the establishment phase of the new club. This has included producing a wide range of signage and printing.

“What we have done for Auckland FC really does show the wide capability of our offering,” said Benefitz Senior Account Manager Dan Ellensohn, following the first match in October. “We looked after all the signage and rebranding at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium and a whole lot more.”

In the set-up phase, signage that Benefitz has provided for

Auckland FC has included: stadium sponsor signage at Go Media Stadium; billboards at Go Media Stadium; merchandise container branding and merchandise menus/price lists; team van vehicle branding; ticketing signage; media walls and inflatable tents for events and matchday; DJ booth branding; Auckland FC Supporters Club TIFO banner and coloured cards; flags and signage for Auckland FC city offices and signage at Auckland FC training base (North Harbour Stadium).

There has also been a lot of printed items produced by Benefitz. These have included: business cards, flyers, posters for clubs, 15,000 matchday posters, accreditation and member passes, stickers and postcards. Other branded items produced have included gym bags, pennants and table cloths.

“Being involved with helping to launch this completely new startup professional club has been lots of fun for our team,” adds Dan Ellensohn, himself a former All White and professional footballer.

“Everything is totally new which allows for creativity and a little bit of chaos. As you can see by the full stadium and success of that first match, and the popularity of the merchandise, the Auckland FC crew have done a wonderful job in bringing the new entity to life. I reckon the Benefitz team have played a solid part as well. The print and signage looks great!”

Auckland FC owner Bill Foley and CEO Nick Becker.

Dan Ellensohn (centre) with Benefitz colleagues Rhys Lloyd and Blake Douglas at Go Media Stadium.

Go Media Stadium full and pumping on 19 October for Auckland FC’s debut A-League match against Brisbane Roar.

Auckland FC is one of many sporting investments for the club’s lead investor Bill Foley who was in Auckland for the debut match. He is the lead investor, chairman and CEO of Black Knight Sports and Entertainment, a consortium that owns the ice hockey club Vegas Golden Knights. He is managing general partner of Black Knight Football and Entertainment, which owns English Premier League club AFC Bournemouth, and has a stake in French Ligue One club FC Lorient. Earlier this year the Black Knight organisation also became a significant minority shareholder in Scottish football club Hibernian FC. Bill Foley has has other investments in New Zealand, including Foley Wines (five wineries in Martinborough, Marlborough and Central Otago), a restaurant group with venues in Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown (including the iconic Soul Bar in Auckland), and luxury lodge Wharekauhau on the South Wairarapa Coast. Husband and wife duo of Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams are also key investors in the club.

Auckland FC is known at the ‘Black Knights’, and their aim is for the whole of the Auckland region to embrace them as their new home team. They have made a great start.

“Being part of the community is very important to us and is something that Bill (Foley) does wherever he invests,” explained Auckland FC CEO Nick Becker, at the launch in 2024. “Ambition is hugely important as well; we will fight on and off the pitch. The Foley way is to always advance and never retreat. We will also be focused on creating pathways for our talent, with the added opportunity for players to play for other Foley owned Black Knight teams in the UK (AFC Bournemouth), France (FC Lorient) and Scotland (Hibernian FC) being a bonus. We believe the final value of being here for all of Auckland is very important, ensuring we are weaving together the many cultures that will help us grow and be successful.”

For more information visit aucklandfc.co.nz

Benefitz signage for Auckland FC pop-up event at Britomart in the city.

Benefitz at Homegrown

Benefitz big printing capability will be on show once again at Jim Beam Homegrown being held on the waterfront in Wellington in March (14th-15th). It is an event we have been assisting annually for many years.

This is a massive music festival that requires big images for a range of purposes. It consists of five stages along the Wellington waterfront from Waitangi Park to Frank Kitts Reserve.

For the 2024 event 915 metres of printed fence scrim was required for the fencing to create the ticketed venue. We also produced large decals on the gables of all the stage tents. In addition, we printed rigid directional signage, bar menus and instructions for all the entrances. Large printed mesh banners were printed for wrapping all VIP structures. Printed mesh banners also covered all large speakers on the sides of the stages. Printed mesh banners also covered all the scaffold structures with these being over 17 metres x 4.4 metres.

All the printed mesh was finished with reinforced double-stitched edges with lots of eyelets to withstand the Wellington weather. Sure enough, last yearthere was a storm on the Friday just prior to the event and everything stayed in one piece.

It’s a big project, but one we love doing. Being able to print up to 5 metres wide and virtually any length makes things easier as well.

As this issue was going to press production was well under way for the 2025 event.

BIG PRINTING POWER

GRAND, FLATBED & LARGE FORMAT MACHINERY

ACUITY ULTRA R2

5 METRES WIDE UV PRINTER

Brand New 2024 powerful roll-to-roll inkjet superwide format printer

SWISSQ NYALA

4S 3.2 METRES WIDE FLATBED & ROLL TO ROLL UV PRINTER

Also a very recent addition, powerful UV Flatbed & versatile roll-to-roll machine

ZUND G3 L-3200

3.2 METRE DIGITAL FLATBED CUTTER

A superb finishing machine, making finishing very efficient & cost-effective

MUTOH VALUEJET 2638X 2.6 METRES WIDE FABRIC PRINTER

High quality sublimation printer with size!

MIMAKI JFX200 2.5 METRES WIDE FLATBED PRINTED

Our back-up Flatbed, high quality with ability to print onto media up to 50mm

MUTOH VALUEJET 1938TX

1.9 METRES WIDE FABRIC PRINTER (X2)

High quality sublimation printers!

MUTOH VALUEJET 1638X 1.6 METRES WIDE ECOSOLVENT PRINTER

High quality large format solvent printer.

EPSON SURECOLOR

S80660L 1.6 METRES WIDE ECOSOLVENT PRINTER

High quality large format solvent printer.

MIMAKI UCJV300-160 1.6 METRES WIDE UV/LED PRINTER

High quality large format UV printer.

HP LATEX 800W 1.6 METRES WIDE WATER-BASED PRINTER

High quality large format water-based printer.

HP LATEX 570 1.6 METRES WIDE WATER-BASED PRINTER (X2)

High quality large format water-based printers.

MIMAKI UJF-6042 PROMOTIONAL UV FLATBED PRINTER

Enables us to print a range of promotional items – just about anything.

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

#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

Across

8 Cheat bouncer, Cody and me over "Bringing Up Baby", for example (9,6)

9 Somewhat pleased with oneself, being square about a circle (8)

10 Bacon supplier is closer, with organ moved to start (6)

11 Coming from current volcano (6)

12 River side school backing smacker (8)

13 Searchlight seen at sea by language instructors (7,8)

16 Babies with gas consumed soup first (8)

18 Are removed from submarine about to glow (6)

20 Refuge from essentially simple hunk (6)

21 Coaches catching Cockney girl's parcels of land (8)

22 From Peshawar, ran to far restaurant to obtain this document (7,2,6)

Solution to last month's crossword

Down

1 Poor Tom's a-cold - or is he? I must look to find out (12,3)

2 Remove the 2-spot, say? Solve it like Holmes! (6)

3 Wards off old boy using setback (8)

4 Bad habit is not a leap for this sort (15)

5 Protect display cover (6)

6 A bad actor upset to admit tirade is purplishred (8)

7 11's so unsure about audacity (15)

14 Letter from 50+50, or 500? (8)

15 Ban moral outrage - it's unnatural (8)

17 Sound of small bell holds note what may be used for comic effect (6)

19 Nice man to concede raising bottom is thin (6)

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.