1 November 2024, Devonport Flagstaff by Devonport Flagstaff

Council building sold after big valuation drop... p2

November 1, 2024

Signs of business revival as summer beckons... p18

Interview: Wooden-boat fan Alan Houghton... p22

Community benefits from TGS swimming pool upgrade

Devonport Swim Club has been thrown a lifeline with the $2 million upgrade of the Takapuna Grammar School (TGS) pool.

The swim club had been based at the Navy swimming pool for decades, but has been shut out since the Covid pandemic.

With the upgrade to the TGS pool, the club

has committed to a three-year licence to run swim squads at the school.

Construction has started on the upgrade, with a reopening planned in term one, 2025, meaning serious squad swimmers will no longer have to travel off the Devonport peninsula for pool training.

The upgraded pool will be heated yearround, floodlit and deepened by 70cm to allow water polo.

It will be used for physical education, swimming coaching and swim squads as well as for cross-training for other sports.

To page 11

Fundraisers in the pink

Court action... Tennis players from three different clubs gathered at Ngataringa Tennis Club in Stanley Bay to raise money for breast-cancer awareness. Story, more pictures, pages 34 and 35.

Former council building sold after value plummeted

The former Devonport Borough Council building at 3 Victoria Rd was sold towards the bottom of the market for a less than optimal price, according to documents obtained under the Official Information Act.

Auckland Council property arm Eke Panuku initially refused to release valuation and sale-process documents but has now done so following a Flagstaff complaint to the Ombudsman’s Office, which launched an investigation.

The Ombudsman’s office confirmed Eke Panuku “reconsidered the decision” after being notified of the investigation

The building was sold to Peninsula Capital for $2 million in April 2023, with settlement a month later.

A valuation by Seagars property valuers in September 2021 put the value of the building at $3 million.

However, in March 2023, Eke Panuku asked Seagars for a “market update” on the value of the property, which the valuers

downgraded to between $1.425 million and $1.75 million.

“This is well below the value adopted 18 months ago, arising firstly due to an increase in investment yields generally, and secondly more cautious buyers are going to want a bigger incentive to take on properties with engineering, vacancy and character protection challenges,” the Seagars review said.

“Vendors choosing to sell into a softening market are being met with muted demand and purchasers expecting large discounts from prior asset values,” it said.

“We are typically re-valuing commercial property downwards as investment yields are increasing.”

The former borough council building had been vacant for six years until recently, when new owners Peninsula Capital let out the upper floor to the Depot for its affiliated artists. The Depot is now using the ground floor as well, as gallery and shop space.

The Flagstaff asked the Ombudsman’s office for comment on whether the case set a precedent for local authorities handing over valuations used for sales of public property. The newspaper also asked for comment on whether it was appropriate for Eke Panuku to withhold information from the media and public and only release it when the Ombudsman launched an investigation. Responses were not received by deadline.

Comment: Fire-sale outcome has whiff of farce

Eke Panuku’s release of the valuations for 3 Victoria Rd is a victory for openness over council decision making. Hopefully this means the free flow of information will continue in the future.

As I said in my complaint to the Ombudsman, following the end of the sale process there was no logical or commercial reason for withholding the valuations.

Indeed, they offer important insights into the process whereby a long-held public building was sold.

To some keen local-authority watchers what has eventuated with the building has elements of farce.

In summary: Auckland Council kicked out all the tenants citing earthquake safety issues as a key reason. Community groups, including the Depot, wanted it retained for public use, but these overtures were rejected, with council deciding to sell it. Iwi were offered it first but did not want it.

Devonport Publishing Ltd First Floor, 9 Wynyard St

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It was always going to be a tricky building to sell – heritage listed, with a not particularly attractive street frontage, and needing earthquake strengthening.

Peninsula Capital bought it and followed up with the purchase of more than a dozen other village buildings.

The company felt it was safe for tenants, and has done an excellent facelift of the building, taking out partitions downstairs, ripping up carpets and sanding floors.

Good enough anyway for a temporary tenant – the Depot.

The beancounters at Eke Panuku are probably happy they managed to sell the building at what some would say is a fair price in a depressed market.

But if the same logic is applied to residential homes, how many people sell at the lowest ebb? That would be called a fire sale.

Rob Drent, Editor

DoC warns of penalties after park damaged again

A section of Polly’s Park has been dug out, exposing tree roots and uprooting plants, weeks after trees in the same area were slashed.

The north-facing bank in Mary Barrett Glade /Wakakura Reserve was dug out on 19 October uncovering old bricks and tiles along with the roots of a totara and a kauri. It comes just weeks after multiple kawakawa trees in the same area of the reserve were slashed, setting back growth by four to five years.

Restoring Takarunga Hauraki rat trapper Karina Huebner discovered the damage with her husband Andrew when they were attending to a trap line last month.

Huebner said she doesn’t know why someone would dig up the area, but wonders if someone was trying to collect bricks.

Claire Barrett, the granddaughter of Mabel (Polly) Pollock who laboured for more than 17 years to create the reserve of native trees, said it was really sad to see someone damage a reserve enjoyed by so many people.

Barrett used to stay with Polly during summers when she was younger and help her with planting in the reserve. Saplings from those days are now large trees.

Barrett and her brother Paul are keen to help repair the damage in the glade. “We want it to remain a safe public space everyone can enjoy”.

Barrett said the theory of someone fossicking for remnants of the old Duders Brickworks site was the most likely explanation. She said a neighbourhood-watch-style organisation or a community constable patrolling the glade could deter future vandalism.

Dave Coker, who is known for working in the reserve and trying to build an unconsented walkway through nearby mangroves in 2019, said he had “nothing to do with”

the vandalism.

Coker also suspected someone was looking for artefacts when digging up the bank.

Department of Conservation senior visitor and heritage ranger Stefan Sebregts said disturbing the area was an offence under the Conservation Act 1987, which could lead to a criminal conviction with imprisonment up to two years or a fine of up to $100,000.

“It is also an offence under the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014, which could also lead to a criminal conviction and hefty fines”, he said.

Sebregts said permission was needed from DOC to undertake any work or activities in the reserve.

Archaeologists are assessing the damage and the potential to remediate it, he said.

DOC is asking members of the public to share any information about suspicious activity noticed from mid-October onwards including vehicle descriptions, photos or any other information by calling 0800 362 468 or emailing info@doc.govt.nz.

Saddened at damage...

Mabel Pollock’s grandaughter

Claire Barrett (left) and the area where tree roots have been left exposed (above). Below: Dave Coker is known for working in the reserve.

Devonport 41 Old Lake Road

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Tender (unless sold prior)

Closing 4pm, Wed 27 Nov 2024

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linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz

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Boaties look forward to reviving ‘grand old lady’

With a law change introduced to Parliament last week, the heritage Takapuna Boating Club building at Bayswater has been given a new lease of life. Janetta Mackay reports.

It will be some time before plans are firmed up for future use of the landmark old boating building at Bayswater, says owner the Takapuna Boating Club.

But commercial expressions of interest will likely be called for and the community will be consulted, says club commodore Wendy Baker.

“We know we’ve got a historical building there and we’re very excited by the opportunity that we’ll be able to do more with it,” she told the Flagstaff.

Last Friday, MPs unanimously signed off on first legislative moves to allow wider use of the building. North Shore MP Simon Watts, who has been shepherding the bill through Parliament, said he was proud to do this as local MP, with the aim of giving the building a new lease of life. “Our community is better because of our shared heritage and cultural touchstones. The Bayswater Clubhouse is one of those, and today is an important step in retaining that heritage.”

Watts said the process was needed to update an act that limited use of the building.

“While the drafters of the original 1923 legislation had good intentions, in practice, it has meant the clubhouse cannot secure the commercial income necessary to maintain itself, and without a law change, the clubhouse will remain under-used and unmaintained.”

The bill would expand the ways the clubhouse can be used, allowing some commercial usage, so long as the proceeds are used for the good of the community or to maintain the site’s built heritage, he said.

The Auckland Harbour Board and Takapuna Borough Council Empowering Act Amendment Bill passed its first reading on 25 October and was referred to a select committee which is due to report back to the

Progress in Parliament... North Shore MP Simon Watts is shepherding a bill that would allow commercial usage of a heritage building in Bayswater

House by the end of February.

Baker said the club was grateful for Watts’ support. “It’s taken a lot of time and effort with people in Auckland and down in Wellington to get to this stage.”

She said the club’s recently elected board had visited the site two weeks ago so its new members could be familiarised with the building and work needed.

Takapuna resident Baker, who has been on the board for three years, said the club had previously fielded informal approaches and shown interested parties around.

While it was still “very early days”, she said the club would be happy to be contacted by interested parties ahead of a likely formal proposal process.

Previous ideas have been for a restaurant or cafe on the top floor, with leased space below, along with more of the club’s boating and allied activities, such as board and kite sailing, to be run out of Bayswater, which was the Takapuna club’s original home.

Baker said she understood the re-roofed building had “very good bones”, but more investigation of the building’s condition and associated costs would be needed. Balconies were in poor repair.

The old dance hall inside, which was in use into the 1950s, was a wonderful space, she said. “We would love to do justice to a grand old lady.”

Watts said the bill had been drafted and managed by Auckland Council and the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, both of which unanimously supported it.

The club approached previous local board members and Watts in 2021, winning their backing for a legislative change, but had to wait for council’s legal team to complete the paper-work before Watts could get the Parliamentary ball rolling.

The club’s former commodore, James Jordan, said previously that readying the building for its next chapter might cost up to $2 million, though work could be staged.

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Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024

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linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz

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If you dream of living in a character Devonport home but you still want a big garden for your kids to run wild, you will know just how hard it is to find one that you can actually afford in this very soughtafter area, where villas on big sites normally come with big price tags taking them out of reach for young families. The good news is that your search may be over. This cute-as classic 1910 cottage villa has been stylishly updated and is set on a generous site of some 2/3 of 964sqm with exclusive use rights, giving it a dream-come-true garden for families with young kids who love to run wild. The cottage has been cleverly expanded and stylishly refreshed with wonderful indoor/outdoor flow to the garden, and a separate building outside makes an ideal office or breakout room. bayleys.co.nz/1470704

3 1 2 1 Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024 28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm Linda Simmons 027 459 0957

Devonport 11 Calliope Road

Devonport 1/3 Aramoana Avenue

Cute-as Cottage with huge garden

Heritage grace with abundant space

This gracious homestead celebrates an enticing combination of heritage elegance, grand proportions and is located just a three-minute stroll from the village overlooking the rooftops and harbour beyond. Set on two levels, it offers an abundance of living space. The entrance level is familyhome-perfect in its own right, with four generous bedrooms and three bathrooms. The kitchen, dining and living areas are surrounded by windows and glass doors, welcoming the views in, and flowing to the wrap-around entertaining decks perched above the village. The lower floor has a twobed studio with a private entrance and open plan living, dining and kitchenette. This is guest or teenage heaven – they have their space and you have your peace. And there's room for a pool! bayleys.co.nz/1470705

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6 3 5 2

Auction (unless sold prior)

Tender (unless sold prior)

1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024

Closing 4pm, Wed 27 Nov 2024

28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland

33 King Edward Parade, Devonport, Auckland

View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm

Linda Simmons 027 459 0957

View Sun 3-3.30pm

linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz

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Family living in prime location

Auction (unless sold prior)

1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024

28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland

View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm Linda Simmons 027 459 0957

linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz

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Nestled on one of Devonport’s most desirable streets, 2 Ewen Alison Avenue offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and family living. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home boasts an open-plan layout, stunning interiors, and a relaxing outdoor space with a sparkling pool. A versatile sleepout, which was used as a dance studio and office, adds flexibility for work or creativity. Situated just minutes from schools, shops, and Devonport Village, this home offers unparalleled convenience in a vibrant community. bayleys.co.nz/1470685

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4 2 3 2

Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024

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View Sat/Sun 2-2.30pm

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Boundary lines are indicative only

Bayswater 51 Norwood Road

Devonport 1/3 Aramoana Avenue

Cute-as Cottage with huge garden

Deceased Estate - Absolute Waterfront

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Step back in time and Dare to Dream! This original brick and tile three/four bedroom home deserves to be loved by a new owner. Set on predominantly 1290sqm flat land, this property features a charming waterfront area accessed by a path leading to the water’s edge, and a private boat ramp with a unique private beach. For almost 50 years, this property was a playground for the owners and their children who enjoyed endless days of fun in the water. Now, your family can make magical memories! The house is being sold ‘as is where is’ and while it requires some tender loving care, it has potential to become a beautiful family home once again. The views are breathtaking, with a direct line of sight to the city skyline, transforming into a fairyland as the sun sets. bayleys.co.nz/1451653

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Auction (unless sold prior)

Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024

1.30pm, Thu 21 Nov 2024

28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland

View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm

View Sat/Sun 11-11.30am or by appointment

Linda Simmons 027 459 0957

linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz

Libby Greenwood 021 937 470

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By Rob Drent

Every now and again you get a reminder that we are ruled by the far-away offices of Auckland Council.

Take the bumf on its website for the online consultation regarding the proposed skatepark at Woodall Park.

Auckland Council says: “After looking at options, in August 2023, we concluded that Woodall Park in Narrow Neck was the best site for a replacement skatepark.

This is because it:

• is close to the Ngataringa skatepark.

• has an existing playground, BMX pump track and toilet.

• has suitable green space available next to Wairoa Rd.

Looking at a map at the council’s city-side offices, this is all in theory correct.

But from a local’s viewpoint two of the statements are just plain wrong. Most residents wouldn’t regard Woodall Park as “close to” Ngataringa skatepark – there’s a golf course and busy Lake Rd in between.

An existing playground, BMX pump track and toilet?

The Flagstaff Notes

BMX pump track, yes. But toilet and existing playground no – not unless you are including the Narrow Neck Beach playground and toilet block.

Again locals wouldn’t regard these as close to the skatepark.

Devonport squash club/gym has toilets next door to the proposed skatepark, but these aren’t public.

It’s an indication the council officers in charge of the development are operating in some sort of silo. If they had run the ‘have your say’ information past Devonport-Takapuna Local Board chair Toni van Tonder or any of her board members, they would have surely changed the wording.

The lack of attention to detail doesn’t give nearby residents much confidence in the system evaluating their submissions.

Skateparks are a prickly issue. No matter how commumnity minded people are, I don’t think many would like to live near a skatepark.

I’m with Cam Calder (letters, 18 October) on Auckland Transport (AT) sign pollution around the village. One of its latest offerings to state the bleeding obvious (right) advises people to look both ways when stepping on a pedestrian crossing. Maybe it should spell

Our doors are open. We’d love to show you around.

B:HIVE will be open to everyone during the next Sunday market at Smales Farm.

Whether you’re looking for ofﬁce space, or just keen to have a peek, our friendly team will be available to show you around between 9am and 2pm on Sunday 10th November.

Smales Farm, 72 Taharoto Road, Takapuna. Free parking, Smales Farm Bus Station onsite.

B:HIVE Open Day Sunday 10 November, 9am - 2pm

Work begins on heated pool at Takapuna Grammar

From page 1

The work includes upgraded changing facilities and a new pool filtration and salt chlorination system.

TGS board of trustees property committee chair Michael Sweetman said the upgrade was essentially a new pool, which allowed year round usage instead of only around 12 weeks use of the existing facility.

While the $2 million budget may seem a lot, it was far cheaper than starting from scratch, he said.

Auckland Grammar’s new pool, for example, cost $15 million.

The school, which has launched a “Buy a Brick” campaign, was hoping the community would contribute around $300,000 to the project.

“Its super exciting,” Sweetman said. The heart of the project was about improving water safety for students and the wider community.

Devonport Swim Club president Tom King said it was delighted to collaborate with TGS to offer members and the community the opportunity to use a pool on the peninsula.

When it was shut out of the Navy pool four years ago, the club had around 140 members.

During its recent hiatus the club kept active organising the annual Round North Head swim. Members had informally kept in touch by forming ocean-swimming groups.

King said the TGS pool would offer greater flexibility around squad and coaching times, whereas the Navy pool had operated under strict time limits.

The swim club’s coaching sessions and squads were aimed at improving swimming techniques rather than training swimmers for competitions.

This suited recreational swimmers wanting

The TGS pool’s upgraded facilities will include:

• A 33m x 13m pool, deepened with a ‘ring-beam’ design to provide a deepend of 2m and shallow end of (1.8m).

• Heating by eight new heat-pumps.

• Upgraded pool plant systems, including salt-water chlorination conversion.

better fitness, or others training for different activities such as triathlons, surf lifesaving, water polo and the like, King said.

For competitive swimmers, the pressure on parents dropping kids at pools miles away from Devonport would be alleviated.

King foresees a mutually beneficial relationship with the school: for example a morning training/coaching session for adults could be held from 6.30am to 7.30am, with a subsequent session for TGS students which would finish in time for school.

The swim club would make a regular payment to the school as part of its lease.

The Devonport-Takapuna Local Board voted in its latest community grants round to give $6995 to TGS for pool ropes.

Next OCR cut due 27th Nov

We expect another 50bp OCR cut (or possibly even 75bp but the recent “Trump trade” ie increase in US treasury bond rates has put a dampener on US rate cuts and hence ours) on 27th Nov down to 4.25% as the RBNZ takes a cautionary approach to easing monetary policy. This caution is due to inefficient council spending with huge rate rises and insurance companies price gouging creating sticky domestic non-tradable inflation near 5%pa.

The most popular fixed rate we are seeing is currently the 12mth fixed at 5.59% vs 6 mth fixed at @6.50% as most believe rates will be lower over the next year or so. As this happens we expect property and mortgage demand to slowly improve and already some investors are back sniffing about. Note bank approval times are still very slow up to 10 days as they remain short staffed and inundated with restructures and refinance offers as people look at attractive refinance cash backs of 0.8% or 0.9%.

Let us know if we can help with any mortgage related activity as we can invariably add value.

• Changing shed upgrades.

• Pool lighting.

• Water polo goals, new swim lane ropes.

• Foundations to enable future installation of a roof.

Hauraki School opens new pool

Hauraki School is holding an opening for its new pool at the end of this month.

Principal Clarinda Franklin announced the completion of the school’s Cool Pool Project last week. This follows years of fundraising by the school community to reach a target of $500,000.

The fundraising included fairs, auctions, raffles and a dance party.

Former pupils and parents will be welcome at a school celebration on Friday 29 November at 2pm, with a public pool day to follow.

Takapuna cheerleaders score top award

Takapuna Beach Business Association is celebrating winning national recognition for its community-building events, which entice locals and visitors to enjoy the fantastic destination.

At the recent 2Degrees Auckland Business Awards, the association was named winner of the Community Contribution Award, in what is a first for a business association.

Takapuna Beach Business Association (TBBA) chief executive, Terence Harpur, who accepted the award at a glittering ceremony at the Cordis hotel’s ballroom, was thrilled with the accolade.

He said it rewarded the hard work of the TBBA team and the far-sighted strategy of its board in backing crowd-pulling events that returned dividends to the town centre, local residents and businesses.

But even more significantly the award citation got to the heart of what the TBBA was proudest of achieving – reinforcing Takapuna’s unique charms and very special sense of place and community.

The judges of the award said: “The Takapuna Beach Business Association has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community through its many events like the Winter Lights festival, benefiting local schools, businesses, and groups. Their commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive environment is truly commendable.”

The TBBA’s focus was making a real difference, judges continued.

Harpur said a packed programme of events helped keep Takapuna well and truly on the map. Its beloved beach and lakeside location meant it was already an unparalleled place in which to live, play and do business, but it was also an increasingly vibrant drawcard destination, with a growing range of hospitality, retail and recreational opportunities for people to explore. Waiwharariki Anzac Square was the ideal central space for events, with Hurstmere Reserve and the Takapuna beachfront opening up to the enticing environment.

In 2023, the TBBA delivered more

than 30 public events. These ranged from the four-day Winter Lights extravaganza attracting more than 45,000 people to seasonal favourites such as Christmas Carnival, Summer Days and an Easter Festival. A range of ethnic events provided wonderful cross-cultural experiences and relationship-building occasions, including the Chinese New Year Festival, Taste of Turkiye, and Latin and Filipino festivals.

Film nights and food trucks were community favourites. Innovative markets included Re-Generate for upcyled clothes, Dog Day Out and a Matariki-themed selection of stalls. The town square has also often been activated, with support from the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, to bring artists, musicians and children’s school holiday activities into play.

Taste of Takapuna is just one of the many hospitality focussed initiatives,

with others being wine and food tours.

Chair Alex Bicheno said the TBBA’s commitment to community had never been stronger. “We successfully organised a large number of events which drew record attendance and showcased our local businesses. These events not only engage community spirit but also drive foot traffic to our shops and services and promote our businesses to a wider audience.”

Harpur said as well as hosting so many events of its own, the TBBA supported and sponsored many other groups who brought in extra people because they saw the enormous benefits Takapuna offered as a venue. This year, this included the New Zealand National Pipe Band Championships, the Takapuna Beach Cup New Zealand Waka Ama Championships and regular top-notch arts performances at the Bruce Mason and Pumphouse theatres.

Winning team… At the Cordis hotel for the Auckland Business Awards are (from left) Takapuna Beach Business Association board members Andrew Hill, Steve Shute, Glenn Read and Janet Marshall, Melissa Powell, Felicity Harpur and TBBA staff, Hannah Stoddart (marketing and events) and Chief Executive Terence Harpur.

Award-Winning Therapist Fiona Harding Launches Go Nails – Bringing a Unique Approach to Beauty and Wellness

Local Takapuna resident and awardwinning Diversional Therapist, Fiona Harding, has proudly announced the launch of her mobile business, Go Nails. After 3.5 years of preparation, Fiona has combined her extensive experience in therapy with her passion for beauty to offer high-quality manicures and pedicures tailored to promote both physical beauty and emotional well-being.

A Level 4 registered Diversional Therapist, Fiona has spent years working in therapeutic care, providing support to individuals seeking to improve their overall quality of life. With Go Nails, she brings this expertise to a wide range of clients, from rest home residents to brides, offering personalised

Fiona treats my mum like a queen! Fiona is friendly, funny and extremely kind. We would truly recommend her services to anyone. The fact that Fiona will come to you is just wonderful, taking away the pressure of arranging a trip.

— ANNA MAGDALINOS

treatments for every stage of life.

“My goal with Go Nails is to create an opportunity for clients to relax and be pampered in their own home. I believe beauty and wellness go hand in hand, I use Linden Leaves high quality creams and oils for a superb treatment for your skin and nails” Fiona said.

Since launching, Go Nails has already gained a loyal following, with clients appreciating the attention to detail and the supportive calm environment Fiona has created.

For more information, or to book an appointment, visit www.gonails. co.nz or contact Fiona Harding on 027 2000 437.

“I am offering a regular, reliable service at a genuinely affordable price, using quality products, following infection-control protocols and salon standards of sterilisation. Benefits include improved circulation and vitality with a relaxing pamper,” Fiona said.

• Luxury Manicure • Deluxe Pedicure www.gonails.co.nz

(REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY)

2024

NOVEMBER 10th

The Devonport RSA invites the people of Devonport and Takapuna to attend the Remembrance Sunday Service at the memorial of the Untidy Soldier Victoria Road, Devonport, at 1045 Sunday 10 November 24. Note there will be no street parade this year and parade participants will muster and fall-in at the memorial and dismiss from there. The public are invited to stand in the grass space in front of the library or across the road at Windsor Reserve.

Remembrance Sunday commemorates the loss of New Zealand lives from all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. The Government is presently reviewing the law, so it formally recognises a wider range of veterans. This review will formally recognise NZDF personnel who have served in wars and more recently conflicts or peacekeeping operations. There is great personal sacrifice for those engaged in these operations and their families. On Remembrance Day we will honour those who lost their lives in the Great War and those wars that have followed it. We will also honour those who have lost their lives serving this country in more recent times, and also honour those who have sacrificed time away from their families.

All veterans and participants seated/fallen-in by 10.45am

Commemoration Service: 10.50am – 11.30am

Belmont Intermediate records tumble

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Monday 4 November 7.30pm

Three school records were broken at Belmont Intermediate School’s athletics day on 24 October. Kate O’Connell broke the year 8 girls high jump record by 5cm with a 1.47m effort; Jesse Wilkins jumped 1.55m in the year 8 boys high jump, breaking the previous record of 1.53m; and Charlie Bennett broke the year 7 boys 100m record with a time of 12.22, breaking the previous record of 12.44.

Raising the bar... (from top) Elevenyear-old Miles Datt winning a 200m heat; Zara Kozenof (13) gives it her all in the high jump; and 12-yearolds (clockwise from back left) Noa Ballesty, Leah Thumath, Anouk Christiansen, Naida Belcher and Clementine de Cannart, who helped hand out snacks during the day.

Guest Speaker: Commander Wayne Burtton ONZM, RNZN (Rtd) (Veteran –East Timor, Sinai, Afghanistan)

Enquiries can be made to the RSA manager on 09 445 8938.

Entry Level Devonport Dream

Tucked within a peaceful, tranquil cul-de-sac and enveloped within lush native bush, this Devonport retreat enjoys a relaxed, beach house feel all year round. The modern, split level townhouse is perfectly proportioned for retirees, young families and professionals to enjoy an incredibly easy-care lifestyle just a 14-minute walk from the village. Inside, a crisp white interior palette provides the perfect canvas for the lush green views outside and a perfectly north-facing aspect floods all rooms with natural light and sun. There is a bedroom on each level and great indoor outdoor flow, with the ground floor enjoying a seamless connection to the expansive deck outside. This huge private area creates another room in summer and is the perfect spot for al fresco entertaining under the sun and stars.

Thursday 14th November at 12.00pm

Rooms (Unless Sold Prior)

As advertised or by appointment cooperandco.co.nz/L30659418

A Slice of the Good Life

This lovely home in Narrow Neck with views to Rangitoto is full of surprises. A huge kitchen and dining space, good sized bedrooms, large entertaining decks and gorgeous elevated views are just some of what is on offer. The downstairs features a tiled European Style kitchen and dining which flows beautifully to a large north-east facing deck and garden perfect for entertaining and alfresco dining. Upstairs, the good sized loungeroom has an extra nook perfect for reading, family boardgame sessions or sitting with a cup of tea and admiring the view across Devonport to North Head and the harbour beyond. Also off this space is a covered sun-deck which leads out to a wraparound deck also accessed by one of the bedrooms. The indoor-outdoor flow of this home really makes use of the elevation and the views. Don't miss the chance to own this wonderful home.

Jemma Glancy 021 246 5300 jemma.glancy@harcourts.co.nz

Deadline Sale

Sunday 24th November at 4.00pm (Unless Sold Prior)

View Saturday/Sunday 11.30am - 12.00pm cooperandco.co.nz/L30339701

Spacious End Unit + Garden + Views + Parking!

Discover this spacious brick and tile end unit on the highly sought-after Aramoana Avenue, where comfort meets convenience. This property offers an expansive garden - an ideal space for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying some "me time". Upstairs, we have the original two bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas on polished timber floors and a veranda with a pleasant outlook to North Head and Bean Rock. Downstairs, the versatile rumpus area can be a second living space, study, and storage area. There is ample room for vehicle, boat, or trailer parking. Set back from the road, the home is a quiet and private retreat. This is an excellent entry point into Devonport with beautiful beaches, top-rated schools and various recreational facilities. This affordable and versatile home could be exactly what you're looking for!

Gary Potter 021 953 021

gary.potter@harcourts.co.nz

Ben Potter 027 953 0210

ben.potter@harcourts.co.nz

Empty commercial spaces are filling up in Devonport in the lead into the summer tourist season.

A cafe is about to reopen in the Old Stone Oven building in Clarence St, after substantial renovations. The long-vacant Ikes Emporium, also in Clarence St, is being refurbished and prepared for what is understood to be a eatery.

On the waterfront, the former site of Miller’s perfumery has also been tenanted, the Flagstaff understands.

On Devonport Wharf a new convenience store/confectionery outlet is set to open in a few weeks.

Fresh life has emerged on Victoria Rd recently, with Persian restaurant Akdeniz expanding into the main street alongside

the Devonport Public House.

After a winter when empty retail and hospitality spaces seemed to be increasing – with the closure of Vic Rd kitchen and the Echo store to follow at the end of the year – the upturn is a shot in the arm for the business community and shoppers alike.

Devonport Business Association chair Michael Moughan said: “I am cautiously optimistic that it appears premises are filling up again following the extended economic downturn.

“However, many businesses are still doing it tough and recent closures over the winter period are a big loss for the village.

“The support of the local community remains critical. Residents really benefit from having a thriving village, and locals

need to support our businesses if we want to have a village we can be proud of.

“Without local support there is a real risk of going backwards,” Moughan said.

The DBA recently ran a ‘shop local’ campaign. It has plans to run further campaigns to encourage people to support local businesses, Moughan said.

• At the association annual meeting last week the new board elected was: Michael Moughan (Gordian Legal), returning as chair; Philip de Lisle (Axiome Accounting), treasurer; Harriet Byrnes (Vic Road Wine Bar), secretary; Bruce Grant (Jag Consultants), Amy Saunders (Depot Artspace), Ian Cunliffe (Bayleys), Liz Sloan (The Patriot) and Barbara Bradbury (Blue Illusion).

More details emerge about restored mural’s subjects

Fresh information on the James Turkington sports mural newly on display at Devonport Museum (Flagstaff, 18 October) has come to light from the family which originally commissioned it.

Around the mural’s centrepiece of North Shore Rugby Club player Lani Kai are smaller images, including two the Titchener family clarified were of Ian Titchener’s

Signs of business revival appear as summer beckons FIREWORKS

yacht Waione, not the Ariki, and Ian’s wife, Helen, playing golf at the Waitemata Golf Club.

The Waione was built at the Sutherland and Bros Boatyard in Domain St in 1909 and designed by Charles Bailey Jnr.

At the time the mural was painted in the early 1950s, for the Titchener family home in Stanley Pt, the yacht was owned by Ian,

who had been a foundation pupil at Takapuna Grammar School.

The extended family has a long-standing association with Devonport.

Ian’s son Paul Titchener served as North Shore City Mayor from 1992 to 1995.

An image of a boxer in the mural was inspired by 1950s world champion heavyweight Rocky Marciano.

Big crowd turns out for fundraiser

A fundraiser movie night at the Vic to raise money for Motor Neuron Disease New Zealand drew a crowd of 164 on 24 October. One of the organisers, Richard Jones (pictured above), said it was pleasing to see so many people come out to support the cause. The fundraiser screening of Local Hero was held in memory of Devonport resident Ronnie Harris who died of the disease last year.

On a gentle 645m² site in a popular location in easy walking distance to Devonport village and Ferry to the City, this renovated three bedroom plus sleepout Villa home, with gorgeous street appeal, is perfect for entertaining in the sun. Whether you have breakfast on the front verandah or decide to entertain family and friends for lunch and dinner in your large, sunny garden, you will love living here.

Barfoot

Devonport 09 445 2010 Major

AUCTION

HOLIDAY EVERY DAY, here at this lovely 'beach cottage' sitting in this elevated position within walking distance to great schools, cafes & beaches.

barfoot.co.nz/899855

12:00pm 14 Nov 2024 at Devonport Branch Office (unless sold prior)

VIEWING Sat & Sun 2:00-2:30pm

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681

Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

28 ST LEONARDS ROAD

Recently renovated, beautifully presented and designed, this is a sunny, large 4 bedroom, 2 living and 3 bathroom home in a terrific location.

barfoot.co.nz/897410

Patricia Hinchey 027 222 3367 FOR SALE VIEWING Sat/Sun 12:00-12:45pm

Magnificent Edwardian villa. Home and income or huge family home, set on private and landscaped 642m² grounds.

barfoot.co.nz/899140

TENDER

DEVONPORT 12 ST LEONARDS ROAD 4 1 2 2

2:00pm 14 Nov 2024 at 39 Victoria Road, Devonport (unless sold prior)

VIEWING Sunday 1:00-2:00pm

Kurt Piper 021 137 6450

40 WAIROA ROAD

Just a stroll to the beach and overlooking the green of Waitemata Golf Course this 4 bdrm, 2 bthrm contemporary home ticks more boxes than most!

barfoot.co.nz/898449

AUCTION

12pm 30 Oct 2024 at Devonport Branch. (unless sold prior) VIEWING

As Advertised.

Sue Harrison 021 909 549

Toni Gregory 021 044 3663

DEVONPORT

Here’s your chance to own this lovely villa sitting on a 695m² section in this peaceful location within walking distance of Devonport village.

barfoot.co.nz/898062

AUCTION

12:00pm 14 Nov 2024 at Devonport Branch (unless sold prior) VIEWING Sat/Sun 1:00-1:30pm

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681

Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

Negotiation

Welcome to 114 Calliope Road where the elegance of a bygone era meets the comforts of modern living. This is a home you must come and view.

barfoot.co.nz/898136

BAYSWATER 31A BAYSWATER AVENUE

A beautiful 1920's character bungalow. From the moment you step through the gate, you'll see this home is special. Call today to view

barfoot.co.nz/899779

VIEWING Sat & Sun 1:00-1:30pm

Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681

2/95 BAYSWATER AVENUE

VIEWING Sat/Sun 11:00-11:30am

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681

Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452 FOR SALE By Negotiation

This rare, spacious ground-floor apartment offers more than most, including exclusive land use and a lock up garage.

barfoot.co.nz/899284

TENDER

2:00pm 7 Nov 2024 at Devonport Branch Office (unless sold prior)

VIEWING Sunday 12.00-12.30pm

Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681

Barfoot

Boat buff’s site attracts rising tide of devotees

Alan Houghton has built a website and had fellow wooden-boat fans visit in their droves. He tells Helen Vause about the satisfaction of sharing stories and contributing to happy outcomes.

Just after midnight, somewhere, night owls are bound to be checking out the latest story on the ‘Waitemata Woodys’ site.

The piece attracting their interest will have come hot off the keyboard of Alan Houghton at his home in Devonport, from where he feeds the audience for all things related to old wooden boats, delivering a story every morning, often burning the oil into the small hours to do so.

Houghton’s Waitemata Woodys is all about New Zealand’s classic wooden boats. More than 20,000 people visit the website every day of the week and over 13 million have visited it in the 10 years it has been up and running, he says.

When he launched it, he had no idea how many were going to share his passion.

Some of his followers grew up cruising the Waitemata on old boats, some listened to the boating tales of their grandparents, who might have holidayed in such craft.

Others dream of one day owning one of these wooden beauties and slowly puddling about on the water.

While there’s nothing new in talk of messing about in boats, being able to indulge that dream, squinting at a computer or phone screen anywhere, anytime is proving to be a growing activity.

The founding of Houghton’s site was based on his desire to capture the history of the country’s classic wooden boats, from those still out gleaming on the harbour and beyond to those quietly rotting in a creek or being given a new life in a boatyard.

While Houghton says the boat has to be the star of each story, the tales are also about the boat builders of the day, successive owners, those who sailed and crewed on them – and now new generations who might have previ-

ously just admired wooden craft as memories in a family album.

The numbers quickly confirmed to Houghton his hunch about wider interest in the subject, and he’s diligently produced the material required to meet it.

Fortunately, the world of old wooden boats is full of stories. For him, so far, there has been one to write 365 days a year. “For every one dark day when I’m questioning why I do it, I have 100 days where someone tells me that the first thing they do every morning is check.”

For a self confessed talker and storyteller the venture has been a great fit. “This is like a bunch of people in the boat club bar. There

will be stuff discussed that you know, stuff you know nothing about and stuff you want to know more about.”

Houghton had a long career in the advertising world, learning a lot about creating the right messages to reach the right audiences, and about people and their dreams.

He’d also been a sailor and had been involved in the Classic Yacht Association before he decided a decade ago to move on and start his own forum.

With the right skills and experience to make it a happen, ensuring he could sustain the debut of Waitemata Woodys by pulling material from the reserves of stories and site content he’d stockpiled.

On board... Alan Houghton, pictured on his own launch, Raindance, which dates back to 1928

He also had the good fortune to attract the attention of writers from leading US and UK classic boat publications, connecting with more followers as a result of that publicity.

Ten years on, he has a library of more than 80,000 photos.

He says he didn’t foresee the popularity of his site. He says around half the visitors are there for research and may be perusing data about builders, designers, methods of propulsion and more.

Accuracy is important to him, despite the many tall tales that go with seafaring banter.

His own depth of knowledge didn’t come to him overnight, he points out. He’s grateful to those who shared information and their time. “None of this would have happened without, in the early days, a few fireside chats with people way more [knowlegable about] the wooden boating community than myself.

“The list of people that have shared their family photo albums, stories and knowledge is huge.”

Whenever he kicks off an online discussion or floats an inquiry about whatever happened to an old launch, the online traffic builds as readers get on board with the story.

Boaties are soon swapping tales of whatever old wooden craft he mentioned, sharing what they know, sometimes adding to the archiving of maritime history, sometimes introducing new stories, and enjoying the natter, kept skilfully to the point by Houghton.

“When people ask why I love classic boats, I say the main reason is dreams. People dream of a quieter, less complicated time. I like the way a wooden boat feels on the water, how it goes through the water. It’s entirely different than a fibreglass or metal craft. It feels solid and quiet.”

He’s not alone. There’s been a resurgence of interest in old craft. He says the cost of a bach is too great for many who might now see an old wooden boat as an option for getting away. And there is an increasing appreciation for authenticity and vintage.

He says plenty of wooden boats will still be lying up a creek or in an estuary arm, or waiting for overdue attention in sheds and paddocks. For every one, bits and pieces of history might yet be recounted and recorded.

His phone would run hot around the clock if he encouraged calls, he says, with no shortage of boat-lovers wanting to discuss their pet subject. Some of the wooden-boat stories he likes best are those where he’s been able to play a part in reaching a happy outcome: when he was contacted by a hospice shop in possession of a fine framed photo of an iconic classic launch, for example, he was able to track down the owner of the vessel who now has the framed work hanging at home.

He tells another poignant tale of an elderly man whose neighbour knew he wanted to see his old boat one last time, “I arranged for the current owner and myself to take him on a short inner-harbour cruise where those aboard shared a whisky toast to him and the boat. Three days later he passed away.”

Sometimes he hears from grandchildren who want to piece together missing bits of

family legend around a once-loved boat. One man managed to track down his grandfather’s launch on Waitemata Woodys and bought it. When he found some original parts were missing, Houghton was able to dive into the data and retrieve them. For him, and others who share the love, he says the boats are like a “step up from a tree hut” – about freedom and escape. And he says, they’re not as selfish as other hobbies he can think of: “Families rarely play golf together or enjoy classic cars together.”

Serendipity bought him to his own 30-foot 1928 launch, Raindance. One night 17 years ago he was bidding online to buy a prized old Land Rover. Outbid, he began browsing, and there she was. Raindance, which had caught his eye previously, was for sale at the Devonport Yacht Club. “I raced down with my torch and as soon as I saw her I was hooked.”

Raindance hits the century soon – and yes, there will be a birthday celebration – but after that, says Houghton, well it might be time to just hang out on other people’s boats. “That starts to look quite appealing.”

Consultation on the proposed skatepark at Woodall Park has begun, but a local resident isn’t convinced it will fix the issues it’s intended to address.

The new facility is intended to replace the existing skatepark at Ngataringa Park, which will become unusable in future due to subsidence.

Wairoa Rd resident and civil engineer Cameron Smythe said he hasn’t seen any evidence the planned new facility won’t have the same subsidence issues.

He said a new skatepark at Woodall Park would suffer the same flooding and settlement issues because the site was a closed landfill, like Ngataringa, and in a coastal inundation area, which could exacerbate problems.

An Auckland Council staff member told the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board at its August meeting that initial ground testing done indicated the ground was suitable to support a new facility.

Being sited on a landfill has caused problems at Ngataringa because subsidence of a clay cap has caused cracks in the skatepark ramps.

North Shore City Council proposed moving the facility in 2010 after identifying the subsidence issues.

Auckland Council has discussed relocating the skatepark since 2012, when plans to move it within Ngataringa Park were drawn up.

Smythe is also concerned with the lack of consultation, saying residents should have been consulted on the best use of the area before the skatepark plan was put forward.

Other neighbours the Flagstaff has spoken to, who did not want to be named, feared an increase in noise in a residential area and a rise in antisocial behaviour.

They insisted they were not nimbys –saying they have co-existed with the nearby

squash courts, gym and tennis and basketball courts for years.

They said the skatepark would be a different level of activity, and that noise would not be confined to the park. Skaters travelling to and from the facility could set off dogs barking at all hours.

Residents said anti-social behaviour such as bottle smashing and littering had occurred at temporary skate ramps.

The Ngataringa facility, also known as the Scotty Brewer Skate Bowl, was built in 2001 after a group of street skateboarders advocated for a dedicated park in the 1990s.

It was named after Devonport teenager Scotty Brewer, a keen skateboarder involved in the development of the skate park, who died due to a heart condition in 1999.

Devonport Rotary helped fund and build

the skatepark.

Scotty’s father Craig Brewer told the Flagstaff he supported the continuation of a skatepark facility in Devonport, whether at Ngataringa Park or Woodall Park.

Dave Casey from the Devonport Skate Advisory Group said building a skate facility in Woodall Park acts as a renewal of the Ngataringa facility, the same way any other public facility is renewed.

He said the Ngataringa skatepark has never been able to offer facilities needed such as shading and toilets. Its comparatively remote location meant some parents worried about the safety of their children.

The Ngataringa skatepark’s design meant all skate traffic goes through its centre, making it hazardous for young children and inexperienced skateboarders, he said.

Skating on the edge of controversy… the proposed site of a new skatepark (above) and the aging Ngataringa skatepark (at right)

skatepark as council opens public submissions

Casey said it was not an option to extend the facility as it wouldn’t fix the issues and council’s closed-landfill team would not approve consent for it.

The proposed new park would better suit the needs of modern skateboarders along with scooters and bikes.

“It’s actually building a modern facility that suits our needs in the right place, more than it is shifting that facility (Ngataringa) over here (Woodall Park).”

Devonport Rotary said it supported a new Woodall Park facility and that it would continue to donate funds for maintenance at Ngataringa while it was still in use.

It remains unclear whether the council can actually afford to build the new facility.

Submissions on the proposed Woodall Park skatepark can be made at akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz until 8 November.

What Auckland Council says

Specialists have recommended against rebuilding the skate facility at its current location in Ngataringa Park, due to a risk the new facility could be affected by uneven ground movement. Additionally, the current skate facility cannot be taken apart and rebuilt because of health and safety concerns related to the contaminated soil.

What are the community benefits of a skatepark?

The addition of this skatepark will enhance the variety of activities and experiences available to the community at Woodall Park. Research has shown that skateparks provide opportunities to develop and master skills, engage in physical exercise, and socialise in a constructive environment. How will the skatepark impact other park users?

We will ensure that the skatepark is integrated with the existing park environment. We will make sure people can still use the fields and play volleyball and netball if the new skatepark is built. What is passive surveillance?

Passive surveillance refers to the natural observation of public spaces by people in the area. The presence of park users and passersby increases visibility, helping to deter anti-social behaviour and enhancing overall safety.

According to Auckland Council’s Open Space Provision policy, all recreational and social spaces should incorporate passive surveillance to prevent hidden or underused areas.

This approach aligns with our crime prevention through environmental design

NAKED AESTHETICS

Anti Wrinkle, Dermal Fillers, Skin Rejuvenation

Claire is a registered nurse with over 20 years’ experience, a Devonport local of 17 years and a mum of 3 teenagers.

She is involved in training doctors and nurses throughout New Zealand on anti-wrinkle and dermal fillers.

She has an in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy, beautification, gentle revolumisation and harmony of the face.

This puts you, your face and your results in very safe hands.

Book your complimentary consultation www.nakedaesthetics.co.nz

(CPTED) strategy. It is important to note that research has found no connection between skateparks and crime. What can we do about noise management?

We are proposing a centrally located skatepark to reduce noise impact on nearby residential areas. Landforms, vegetation, and trees will help absorb sound. Additionally, the skatepark surface will be quieter compared to the sound of skateboarding on streets or hardwood ramps.

Acoustic studies show that skateparks produce noise levels similar to playgrounds and urban sounds such as ambient street noise or traffic. To avoid excessive noise, we will choose the skatepark materials carefully. Noise reduction will be considered throughout the entire design process.

• New builds and renovations

• Rewires

• Home network cabling

• Wall-mount TVs

• Home theatre

LocaL to Devonport

Call Peter Cairns for your free quotation

Phone 021 858 243 or 445 4675

email allsafe.electrical@xtra.co.nz

Painting & Decorating Specialists

Serving Auckland for over 35

Office: 445 8099

email: info@bissetltd.co.nz www.bissetltd.co.nz

Andrew Holloway Floorsander

Landscaping Devonport

Garden design and construction

Whether you are planning a garden refresh or a full renovation, we can help with all the planning, construction and planting. Including decks, retaining, pergolas, paving and fencing. Everything outdoors!

Call Steve on 021 345 694 www.naturalgardens.co.nz

• Floorsanding

• Polyurethaning and staining

• Tongue and Groove repairs

• Serving Devonport since 1995

• Tongue and Groove repairs

• Serving Devonport since 1995

Please phone for a free quote Phone 027 285 4519

ahfloorsanding@xtra.co.nz

ahfloorsanding@xtra.co.nz www.ahfloorsanding.co.nz

Plumbing, Gasfitting, Drainage, Roof Leaks

MAINTENANCE SPECIALISTS

Prompt courteous service

Fully insured for your peace of mind Certifying Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer Call Matt

John Bisset LtD

Trades & Services

TGS Students help out local Sports Community

This week TGS students and staff (in some cases in association with local clubs) have provided over 600 local kids with sporting experiences in their own community. On Tuesday the cricket programme in association with the North Shore Cricket Club ran the 8th annual Peninsula Champ of Champs Cricket festival day held at TGS. 22 teams from 6 local primary schools collectively played 110 games of cricket over the day. The festival was run by 30 TGS students who umpired, scored, encouraged and coached.

The TGS Rugby programme ran a session in the weekend for boys

and girls who are interested in playing rugby and rippa at TGS in 2025. Over 60 local school students attended to see what the programme is all about. The session consisted of skill development and implementation, character development and perseverance and was run by TGS rugby staff, coaches and Harbour representatives some of whom are ex-TGS players.

North Shore United Football Club ran two festival days this week with 33 girls teams taking part on Monday and 45 boys teams on Wednesday. These days wouldn't have been possible without TGS students who

PTA Year 9 Meet & Greet Breakfast

The inaugural PTA breakfast was a great success with many Year 9 students and their parents attending. The PTA invited year 13 students Scarlett Somerville-Ryan and Keifer Holliday to speak about their experiences at TGS and how the many opportunities presented helped shape their time at school and define their next steps going forward. Principal Mary Nixon shared her vision for TGS including what she’s learned from her travels to international schools in various global destinations. Her visits confirmed that Takapuna Grammar School stands out in its approach of looking to develop the whole person through the wide range of sports, cultural opportunities and clubs offered. The PTA were thrilled with the attendance and look forward to hosting more events next year.

officiated the games and supported the club with their event. Thank you to all of our students and sports staff who share their love of TGS and sport with the next generation.

Tū Tangata attend Pīpīwharauroa Cultural Festival

This year for the first time our tauira performed at the ‘Pipiwharauroa kapa haka festival’. This spectacular event took place on Rangitoto College's top field. Kura from the across North Shore came together to celebrate the Pīpīwharauroa Festival, and watch students of all ages perform on the stage. Students from the kohanga, primary schools, intermediate school, and college all enjoyed the community that we all belong to, this occasion also allowed whānau to unite and celebrate Mātauranga Māori.

School Pool Upgrade and Fundraising Project

We are excited to announce, after 50 years, we are investing in a significant upgrade to our beloved TGS swimming facilities. This project will bring year-round heating and floodlighting, a stateof-the-art filtration system, and a 70 cm deepening of the pool to support activities such as water polo. We are delighted to report that we have received building consent, and construction is now underway, with completion expected in Term 1, 2025. The benefits to our students and

the wider community are numerous. The upgrade will not only provide continuous year-round access to a variety of local water-based activities. but will also enhance water safety for over 10,000 students over the next decade; ensuring every child in our area feels safe and capable in the water. Deepening the pool will also create a home for water polo, a facility that has been previously unavailable until now. This upgrade will allow the sport, and many others to thrive.

Sir Stephen Tindall has already

committed to this valuable project which is why we are naming it the Sir Stephen Tindall Pool. We would also be honoured to have your name featured on our supporter’s donor wall, celebrating your generous support. All donations are welcome as every dollar makes a difference. We invite you to be part of this exciting journey by donating via the link on our school website. We look forward to our students and the wider community enjoying this fantastic facility.

Takapuna Grammar School

Luxury seaside apartment

This stunning, architecturally designed three-bedroom apartment offers unparalleled elegance and modern convenience, making it the perfect residence or lock and leave home. Set over three levels, it features an internal lift to all levels, an exclusive double garage, and storage. The top-floor openplan living area boasts uninterrupted sea views, a gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, and floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light. Fully double-glazed for soundproofing and climate control, this luxurious apartment promises a sophisticated lifestyle, ideal for those who appreciate comfort and quality. Schedule your viewing today! bayleys.co.nz/1470698

1 2 2

tamariki me rangatahi mākete

swap shop

drop off opens 29/10 9AM - 1PM WEEKDAYS good quality kid + teens clothing accepted

Friday Tamariki

Playgroup

12.30PM - 2.30PM

devonport community house

Open ended play to create, explore and imagine

$2 per whānau

kid + teens market SUN 17th NOV 10AM - 1PM

kid + teens market

$10 per table, limited spaces For bookings contact

maddy@devonportcomhouse.co.nz

Mah Jong

Two sessions starting in November! 4 week course: Thursdays 10.30AM12.30PM Sunday 3PM - 5PM

$10 for 4 weeks

Term 1 we will have a 6 week course at the same times $20 for 6 weeks

Tēnā koutou, welcome to November!

We have had such a positive response to our pop-up exhibition at the historic 3 Victoria Rd, and are thrilled to be there until 16 November, so thank you to everyone who has come by so far.

‘Also my hometown: A 30 year retrospective of artwork by Onlie Ong’ is a painting and ceramics exhibition not to be missed. We have also moved the DEPOT Shop, Toi Toa and all its beautifully made art and objects to 3 Vic, so please stop by and enjoy this visual and historic feast!

Opening on 23 November, we are also proud to present ‘RE: OBJECT [2024],’ an exhibition marking the halfway point in the inaugural two-year OBJECT MAKER Aotearoa Fellowship designed to nurture and empower 10 contemporary object makers working across craft-based and found materials.

And next month for First Thursdays we are hosting a Christmas Wreath Workshop with Devonport Flowers owner Gretchen Mawson - 5 December, 5-7pm.

These environmentally friendly Christmas wreaths will be created on a handmade frame, using naturally sourced materials, such as pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices and fresh foliage. Tickets are $50 and cover all materials and refreshments, including a glass of wine!

Visit depot.org.nz for more information, event registration, and to stay up to date by subscribing to our e-newsletter!

Ngā mihi nui, Amy Saunders

Director | Kaiwhakahaere, DEPOT amy.saunders@depot.org.nz

Tennis fundraisers show true colours for charity

More than 45 women took part in the Ngataringa Tennis Club midweek section’s annual breast-cancer awareness fundraiser, which drew players from Ngataringa, Belmont Park Racquets Club, and Pupuke

Tennis Club.

Prizes were donated by local sponsors including Yarntons, Toti, Frank Pilates, Devonport Flowers, Skin Sense and Tennis Plus. The event raised $3254.

Pretty in pink... (this page from left) Ngataringa head tennis coach Patoia Teriipaia with Diane Ponzio; Carol O’Toole (in the bunny ears) and Janine Jones; Sally Burge aka Mini Mouse; and on page 34, Denise Gott and Arlene Meder.

Grab

pawtrait with Santa

Book a magical photo session with your dog and Santa at Petdirect Takapuna!

Capture festive moments with the jolly man himself and give your furry friend a Christmas to remember.

Dates:

Saturday 23 November

Saturday 30 November

Saturday 7 December

Saturday 14 December

Time & Location:

Sessions available from 10am - 2pm

Petdirect, 33 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this pawsome Christmas experience! Book your spot today and make this festive season extra special for your dog.

Book here:

Music-world veteran launches last piano collection

Recording engineer, songwriter, producer and member of a chart-topping band – Simon Lynch has done it all in the music industry. He’s just released what he says is his final classical piano album, a last return to the music he was taught as a child. He spoke to Rob Drent.

Most Monday nights Simon Lynch can be found at the Belmont Park Racquets Club, hitting a ball with his mates, rain or shine. He’s known for his deft touch and soft hands at the net. That’s not a total surprise, given his keyboard skills.

Lynch is a multi-talented musician, just as adept in rock bands as playing classical music at a grand piano.

He has been known to surprise his tennis mates and other friends with a Sunday morning facebook recording of a Beethoven sonata.

And the 66-year-old has just-released Finale, which he says will be his “ final-ever classical piano album”.

Lynch returned to Stebbing recording studios – where he worked for 20 years, until six years ago – to record the album, the last of a trilogy of classical piano albums.

The first featured three Beethoven piano sonatas. On the second, Romantic Piano, he played the music of Chopin, Schumann, Mozart and others.

The latest recording “brings to an end a period of 10 years where I devoted my musical energies returning to classical roots of childhood”.

Lynch grew up in Papakura. His parents weren’t musicians but loved music. It was the type of family “where all the kids had to learn a musical instrument”.

Lynch started piano lessons at five, taught by convent nuns who quickly realised he had talent. That meant lessons on the weekend: “I had to give up rugby on Saturday mornings which I wasn’t happy about.”

But he stuck with the music, soon progressing to classical works. From the age of

nine he came under the wing of top Auckland teacher Donald Bowick.

Lynch had the advantage of perfect pitch. “I always had a great ear for music, I could hear a song and could play it.” However, his natural ability proved a bit of a hindrance in Lynch’s music education. “Because I could play by ear I wondered why I had to learn this [written] music stuff.”

He went to Sacred Heart College in Auckland from 1971-75, in an era where the school turned out top musicians including Tim Finn, Mike and Geoff Chunn, Eddie Rayner, Ian and Rikki Morris and Dave Dobbyn. Lynch was in the third form with Neil Finn.

“Music was exploding at the time. We

used to bring our Rolling Stones, Joe Cocker, and Beatles records to school and play them.” One brother at Sacred Heart was particularly encouraging of the boys’ interest in music.

After school, Lynch completed a bachelor’s degree at the University of Auckland’s School of Music. He didn’t want to become a music teacher, and had smashed his wrist in a skateboard accident aged 18, which curbed his immediate piano-playing ambitions.

“But really I wanted to play rock’n’roll. I wanted to play guitar.”

From 1979 to 1981 he played in the Snipes, the Valentinos and the Broken Dolls.

But the drug use associated with the music scene at the time “wasn’t really for me,” he says, and he became frustrated at the musical

Closing the circle… Simon Lynch’s third classical piano album and (left) Lynch in a video recording of The Snipes

limitations of some bandmates.

He moved on to become a keyboard player in the South Auckland club scene.

“They were highly disciplined musicians from the Maori showband era – I’d found my niche. I’m a great lover of funk and soul... I had a real affinity for black music and rhythm and blues.”

The change in musical direction led to playing keyboards for four-piece band Ardijah from 1985 to 1987: he wrote ‘When the Feeling is Gone’, a song on the band’s debut album, which he helped produce. The band played all over Auckland including at the Masonic and Esplanade in Devonport.

But as Lynch approached his late 20s, fulltime work beckoned with music company the Roland Corporation. At the same time, he set up Southside Records with Rip it Up founder and soul-music fan Murray Cammick, a label that captured top New Zealand talent such as Ngaire, Moana and the Moa Hunters and Upper Hutt Posse.

Southside faded out after five years with Cammick starting Wildside and Lynch Red Hill music (named for the Papakura suburb he grew up in). He started writing songs and

producing for John Rowles.

Over the years he’s been a songwriter (for Ardijah, Australian artist Wendy Matthews, Rowles and many others), and a producer of top-charting recordings: Ngaire’s ‘To Sir With Love’ spent five weeks at number one in 1990; and the 2012 album Let’s Sing In The Sunshine, by Tom Sharplin and Friends, had four weeks in the Top 20.

In 1998 he began his long-term career at Stebbings.

“I was the go-to mastering engineer for the major New Zealand record companies, mastering hundreds of singles and albums.”

He had quite an influence on what New Zealanders listened to: one of his jobs was to put together various compilation discs from overseas artists for the Kiwi market.

Variety has been a hallmark of his career – along the way he produced two albums of Bob Marley songs sung in te reo.

Six years ago, with the demise of the traditional music industry and digital content taking over, Lynch moved to Blind Low Vision New Zealand, where he works as an audiobook and audio producer.

“The return to Stebbings to record some

of my favourite pianoworks by the great composers and and one New Zealand selection, The Mad Waltz by Sandy Lynch, was all about closing the circle.”

While Lynch’s playing appears effortless it is the end result of thousand of hours at the keyboard: particularly so for the latest record.

He aimed to record his performances of personal favourites such as Beethoven’s Waldstein sonata and Schumman’s Kinderscenen in one or two takes.

With the record finished Lynch is looking forward to a summer of tennis and surfing, often at Mt Maunganui where his family have had a bach since the 1960s.

“I’ll probably retire down there.”

With tennis mates Des Smith and Clive Melling back from overseas there’s also talk of the Belmont tennis club band – Plight of the Wrong Chords – kicking off again.

Lynch, ever versatile and and happy to fill in wherever needed, plays whatever instrument is required, be it keyboards, drums or guitar. “I’ll always answer the call from the one and only Des Smith.”

• Finale is available on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.

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Master engineer…Simon Lynch at his desk at Blind Low Vision last week

Haunting performances and musical creeps and

A night of spookily fun song and dance is promised by Devonport covers band Speakeasy Exiles for Halloween, this Thursday 31 October.

It’s all in a good cause too, with funds raised from ticket sales going to the Harmony Hall reroofing fund, where Rock on Halloween is being held from 7pm.

The band’s keyboardist and singer Kaaren Rosser is a regular at Friday music sessions at the hall and was keen to support its renovation. It took little effort to convince her bandmates to join in, as “we’re always up for fundraisers because we just like to play”.

It’s been about four months since they last performed, but they’ve rehearsed a special set.

Expect mostly songs from the 1990s and early 2000s, many appropriate to the date, including ‘Creep’, ‘Psycho Killer’, ‘Goodnight Moon’ and ‘Highway to Hell’.

“Then there’s ‘Lullaby’ by the Cure, that’s seriously creepy,” says Rosser.

Bandmate Nathan Male said Speakeasy Exiles had considered a Halloween concert last year, but that had not come together, so they were all looking forward to giving it a whirl this year.

They planned to wear costumes and encouraged audience members to do so too.

“I’ve got something vintage that’s going to be cool,” said Rosser, adding she hoped Male’s artist daughter Jess would do fitting makeup.

The five-member group has played together about half a dozen times a year, over the last two years, although some of the members were in other bands together previously. In July last year they played a fundraiser for the Sea Scouts hall.

Aside from Male and Rosser, the others from Devonport are Gary Hill and Manuel

Diaz, with Phil Goodall from Greenhithe rounding out the quintet. Male said he hoped the Harmony Hall gig would be well supported.

“It will appeal to people who like the theatre of Halloween, and parents and older children who want to avoid trick and treating.” • Rock on Halloween, Harmony Hall, 31 October, 7pm. Tickets at the door, $20. BYO drinks and nibbles. Numbers limited to 100. To secure a spot text 021 632634 or email nathangmale@gmail.com.

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