29 September 2023 Rangitoto Observer

Takapuna leads the way in cannabis trade

Takapuna has been revealed as the ‘cannabis capital’ of New Zealand, due to the success of a local clinic specialising in medicinal uses of cannabis and a nearby partner pharmacy which is distributing prescriptions nationwide.

The Cannabis Clinic, headquartered in

Como St, opposite Shore City in central Takapuna, has become the national market leader in the prescribing of cannabis products since medicinal use of the drug was fully legalised in 2020.

And the high volumes of cannabis products shipped in collaboration with its nearby

K-culture on show

dispensing partner, the Takapuna Pharmacy in Lake Rd, make the pharmacy by far the largest distributor in the country.

Due to continued growth, Cannabis Clinic is now looking for a larger premises in Takapuna, less than a year after moving into the Como St site – having To page 5

Culture class... Korean teacher Diane Lee with Takapuna Normal Intermediate students (from left) Kevin Jeon, Bi Shin and Bella Lee (all aged 12), Dain Kim (13) and Harry Hong (12) dressed up in traditional Korean hanbok for cultural week activities. More photos, page 12.

Safeguard coastal track, 7000 tell council... p6

Massive tower wins approval... p3

North Shore candidates hit campaign trail... p9

George

Hampton

George Hampton

for North Shore

for North Shore

From George: Why I’m in it for you

From George: Why I’m in it for you

From George: Why I’m in it for you

Over the past few months I’ve had the opportunity to meet many of you and hear what matters most to you. From traffic, to the cost of living, to climate change, you are passionate about New Zealand’s future and your children and grandchildren. But many of you have also asked me why I’m in this.

Over the past few months I’ve had the opportunity to meet many of you and hear what matters most to you. From traffic, to the cost of living, to climate change, you are passionate about New Zealand’s future and your children and grandchildren. But many of you have also asked me why I’m in this.

Over the past few months I’ve had the opportunity to meet many of you and hear what matters most to you. From traffic, to the cost of living, to climate change, you are passionate about New Zealand’s future and your children and grandchildren. But many of you have also asked me why I’m in this.

I believe what we do here matters, and that we can change the world from this country. I’ve been a diplomat, a business owner, a renewable energy advocate at the UN - and now I’m a Dad.

If you elect me as your MP, I will be a world class advocate for you and I’ll be:

If you elect me as your MP, I will be a world class advocate for you and I’ll be:

If you elect me as your MP, I will be a world class advocate for you and I’ll be:

• In it for local transport solutions

• In it for local transport solutions

• In it for local transport solutions

• In it for climate action

• In it for climate action

• In it for climate action

• In it for you and to advocate for the North Shore we all love

• In it for you and to advocate for the North Shore we all love

• In it for you and to advocate for the North Shore we all love

I believe what we do here matters, and that we can change the world from this country. I’ve been a diplomat, a business owner, a renewable energy advocate at the UN - and now I’m a Dad.

I believe what we do here matters, and that we can change the world from this country. I’ve been a diplomat, a business owner, a renewable energy advocate at the UN - and now I’m a Dad.

I’ve seen what’s at stake - for our country and our future. We’re not going to move forward by looking backwards. When my daughter asks me what I did in this moment I want to tell her that we did all we could to build a better and brighter future.

We’re all in this together and I’m in it for you.

We’re all in this together and I’m in it for you.

We’re all in this together and I’m in it for you.

Vote George Hampton and Vote Labour.

Vote George Hampton and Vote Labour.

Vote George Hampton and Vote Labour.

I’ve seen what’s at stake - for our country and our future. We’re not going to move forward by looking backwards. When my daughter asks me what I did in this moment I want to tell her that we did all we could to build a better and brighter future.

I’ve seen what’s at stake - for our country and our future. We’re not going to move forward by looking backwards. When my daughter asks me what I did in this moment I want to tell her that we did all we could to build a better and brighter future.

Get in touch:

Authorised by Rob Salmond, 187 Featherston Street, Wellington.

Get in touch:

Get in touch:

george.hampton@labour.org.nz

george.hampton@labour.org.nz

/georgehamptonnz

/georgehamptonnz

Authorised by Rob Salmond, 187 Featherston Street, Wellington.

Authorised by Rob Salmond, 187 Featherston Street, Wellington.

Giant Takapuna tower gets non-notified nod

Permission has been granted for a huge residential tower to be built in central Takapuna without requiring public notification.

This means there is no opportunity for any objections to be heard, with Auckland Council granting resource consent last week.

The 39-storey tower of apartments will be built on the old Gasometer site next to the Toka Puia car park. It will reach 152.6m high, which tops the nearby Sentinel building at 150m. This is 12m higher than initially indicated when the consent was lodged in April, which will make the building the tallest on the North Shore.

The ‘built to rent’ development by a trans-Tasman consortium will provide 358 dwellings, communal facilities and retail around the site’s corner frontage in a lower podium-style building on Auburn St, with site entrances on Huron and Northcroft Sts.

Duty Commissioner Lee Beattie said in allowing it to proceed without notification that

the application was a restricted discretionary activity in the metropolitan-centre zone. It was a high-quality design and contributed to objectives for the area.

The decision noted that the application failed to meet some core standards under the Auckland Unitary Plan, including height, which it exceeded by 72.5m, wind conditions, noise and vibration, parking and outlook space to the north-east for one level of the building. The combined floor and balcony space of 64 one-bedroom units was also slightly shy of regulation, with the internal space of 42m being the minimum, but the 7sqm balconies being under the 8sqm required.

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But on the basis of a site inspection and information provided, the commissioner was satisfied that under the Resource Management Act he had delegated authority to give the go-ahead. Impacts from height and wind would result in less than minor adverse effects, he said. Shading, mostly in the earlier part of the morning, would have a limited impact on those living nearby. “The short duration that the open space zoned lane to the west and south of the development is shaded will not adversely impact on the use and amenity as outdoor recreation spaces.”

A number of conditions were imposed on the consent, including for excavation, noise control, transport management, hours of work and communications protocols with near neighbours. Construction is expected to take place over three years.

“This is considered reasonable given the nature of the project, and management plans in place offered by the applicant during work will ensure adverse effects are minimised,” the decision said.

The development site was bought by Gasometer Developments Ltd, for an as-yet undisclosed sum, after it entered into an agreement with council property arm Eke Panuku in 2021.

Exceptional Properties | Outstanding Results

Tallest in town... The 39-storey tower approved for central Takapuna will be slightly higher than the nearby Sentinel building

My pledge to North Shore:

FOR NORTH SHORE SIMON WATTS GET NORTH SHORE

Lower inflation and ease the cost of living on the North Shore

Let you keep more of what you earn with tax relief

Restore law and order so people on the shore feel safe

Support seniors by maintaining the winter energy payment and increasing super

Cut health waiting times at North Shore hospital and lift school achievement and banning cell phones use at our schools

Authorised by Simon Watts MP, 1 Earnoch Ave, Takapuna

Thriving trade makes Takapuna the cannabis capital

From page 1

outgrown previous premises in Tennyson Ave in less than two years. It aims to have a dedicated cannabis pharmacy attached to the clinic at its next location.

“We want to create a big centre in Takapuna,” Cannabis Clinic founder and CEO Dr Waseem Alzaher told the Observer.

Many of his original team were from the North Shore, and accessibility from the motorway, reasonable rents and access to the beach and shopping all made Takapuna an attractive location.

Takapuna’s under-the-radar central role in the rapidly burgeoning medicinal-cannabis trade was highlighted during a recent election-candidates meeting, in remarks by the Opportunities Party (TOP) North Shore candidate Abe Gray, a botanist who has been a long-time cannabis law-reform activist. Gray told the Observer Cannabis Clinic was clearly the market leader for prescribers, and Takapuna Pharmacy was “miles ahead” of other distributors.

Alzaher confirmed the clinic was the biggest in the country. He estimated that 35 per cent of all prescribed cannabis in New Zealand was being shipped from Lake Rd.

The national market for medicinal cannabis-flower products alone (excluding capsules and oil) is believed to exceed 100 kilograms a month.

The Cannabis Clinic also operates clinics in Nelson and Hastings, and has people working in other parts of the country. Of more than 60 staff nationwide, 27 are doctors and nine are nurses. The company has 25 staff in Auckland, and is recruiting.

Alzaher said the clinic wanted to “put ourselves out there” to help break down a stigma that lingers for some people despite medicinal cannabis being lawful.

A shop-front cannabis pharmacy would give the public the opportunity to learn more

Tale of a trailblazer

Iraq-born and of Kurdish and Persian heritage, Waseem Alzaher came to New Zealand with his family as a seven-yearold, and was educated at Auckland Grammar School and the University of Auckland.

He trained as a doctor in Dunedin and worked in hospitals before making a switch into the early medicinal-cannabis field.

“It was all a bit of a gamble,” he says. The Clinic had to negotiate uncharted territory and a complicated legal framework, working with Medsafe and other regulatory authorities.

“We are forging the way ahead for the industry.”

Now 35, he lives in Palmerston North, where his wife – also a doctor – works, travelling often to Auckland. The couple have two children, aged six and eight. about cannabis.

Forging

Since opening, the clinic had seen more than 30,000 patients, who were commonly seeking help with pain, sleep or anxiety.

Most were aged between 35 and 55, and were “everyday people” including lawyers, teachers and health professionals. Some previously bought cannabis from illegal sources.

Patients were mostly seen in video appointments, but in-person consultations were also offered.

Alzaher said he had linked with Takapuna Pharmacy when establishing the business locally. The pharmacy had brought on more pharmacists and technicians to cope with the rapid growth. By coordination of prescribing rates and deliveries from suppliers, little product had to be stored locally.

He said his business had relied heavily on strong technology to provide a good service for patients.

Product prices had fallen sharply – by more than half – since the early days of legalised prescribing, he said.

Since local manufacturers won approval last year, the locally-grown market share has risen to 30 per cent and is expected to increase further.

Gray believed the volume of cannabis dispensed through Takapuna was greater than the quantity supplied by any illegal dealer. “They dwarf the black-market operations.”

Because of the local medicinal-cannabis “infrastructure”, Gray said he would like to find premises in the area for the cannabis museum he has previously operated in Dunedin and Christchurch.

• The Esmonde Rd motorway off-ramp to Takapuna is Exit 420, a number used in popular culture as a reference to cannabis use. Alzaher said that played no part in the decision to locate Cannabis Clinic in the area.

ahead... Cannabis Clinic founder Dr Waseem Alzaher

Fence ‘going up this week’ will cut access to path

Access to the popular Takapuna-Milford coastal track was set to be lost this week, with the construction of a fence where the route crosses private land at Black Rock.

“The fence will definitely be installed on 29 September due to the lack of action by Auckland Council,” said lawyer Alex Witten-Hannah, who is acting for beneficiaries of a property who have sought to reach a deal with council over continued access.

Witten-Hannah said the council had had ample time to consider their year-old offer to gift a 1.5m coastal section of the Firth property in return for having a heritage listing lifted.

A public petition addressed to Mayor Wayne Brown calling for the track to be safeguarded has drawn more than 7000 signatures since being launched online by the Takapuna Residents Association (TRA) on 11 September.

It was be presented to the council’s governing body on Thursday, after the Observer went to press.

“It’s up to the council to save it,” said the association chair, Steven Salt.

The TRA was interested in gaining certainty for the future of the whole track, he said.

Observer inquiries have revealed the path crosses 72 properties in total. Council staff have indicated budget constraints and

climate change issues raise questions about the track’s viability.

Locals fear that, unlike the former North Shore City Council, Auckland Council is not committed to maintaining the track.

The petition tally was boosted when signatures collected at local shops and the Takapuna Library were added to those registered online. Others were collected by TRA members from walkers at either end of the track over the last few weekends.

Several years before he died in 2021, owner Paul Firth wanted to sell his property to the council for half price. A heads of agreement was struck, but the council did not proceed.

Witten-Hannah told the Observer he believed this was because council did not want to meet the costs of ongoing maintenance on a property it had heritage-listed.

“The beneficiaries are young people who can’t afford to maintain the property,” he said. They wanted the heritage listing removed so it could be sold.

Matters came to a head last month, a year after Witten-Hannah’s latest attempt to resolve the issue, with the land offer.

Mayor Wayne Brown did not respond to Observer queries about the matter.

North Shore councillor Richard Hills said the issue was very complex and both

the council and Devonport-Takapuna Local Board were waiting on clear advice.

The matter is expected to arise at the board meeting in October and at the council’s planning, environment and parks committee meeting, which Hills chairs, in November

Hills said the path had always been an informal route with complicated ownership that included a paved waterfront promenade, beach and lava rocks, a legal road and paths on top of Watercare infrastructure. Much of it was accessed across private properties, with boundaries at or below the tide line.

Hills and local-board chair Toni van Tonder said they hoped owners would continue to allow public access. Van Tonder said she was grateful to the owners who had enabled this for years.

Regarding the Firth estate conditional offer, Hills said elected members could not guarantee the removal of a heritage listing. This would require a plan change, with public consultation and a final decision made by independent commissioners. Officers had told him they would be unlikely to recommend initiating a plan change.

Van Tonder said she was expecting an officer’s report to the local board’s October meeting, which would allow members to give their views.

Hit list of public assets sought for possible sale

A list is to be compiled of council-owned properties the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board might want to have sold.

The board asked Auckland Council staff to identify community assets it could look to “optimise”.

“So you would want to be considering selling stuff to get more done?” asked council’s northern operations manager for community facilities and parks Sarah Jones at the board’s

September business meeting.

“Yes,” said board chair Toni van Tonder.

The issue arose in discussion of funding a $1.4 million renovation of the heritage Claystore building in Devonport.

This was approved in principle, by a 5-1 vote, pending staff advice on shuffling budgets and providing a report on “community assets suitable for optimisation if required to meet the cost”.

Van Tonder has previously signalled that council’s ongoing budget crunch will continue to eat into what the board can fund.

“We need to closely look at our asset portfolios,” she said at the meeting.

Board member George Wood voted against the motion, concerned that other work would be pushed back. He mentioned Kennedy Park and the recently agreed upgrade of toilet facilities at Becroft Park in Forrest Hill.

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Mass turn-out at meeting... of candidates at least

An extended line-up of 11 election candidates at a lunchtime meeting in Takapuna drew a crowd of only around 30 people – including several from the organiser, Auckland North Community and Development (Ancad).

Five of the candidates who spoke at the area’s first relatively muted meeting in Devonport early in the month were all again in attendance at the Takapuna War Memorial Hall on 14 September.

North Shore candidates Abe Gray (The Opportunities Party – TOP), George Hampton (Labour), National MP Simon Watts and Anna Yallop (Act), and NZ First Northcote candidate Michelle Warren, were joined by the Green candidate for Māori seat Te Tai Tokerau (which covers North Shore),

Hūhana Lyndon, along with Northcote MP Shanan Halbert (Labour), Northcote candidates Leo Foley (Act), Dan Bidois (National) and Mark Donaldson (Vision), and Top’s Upper Harbour candidate Shai Navot.

Yallop and Warren, who are relatively new to the political stage, were both more at ease than they had been at the bigger meeting in Devonport.

Certainly, neither lost their train of thought as completely as Foley did in one answer, never to recover it. Perhaps he took comfort from his tough-talking view, expressed in another answer, that “a bit of public humiliation doesn’t hurt anyone”.

The atmosphere was again mostly lowkey, with only one brief outburst of hostility, this time on the part of the usually mild in-

cumbent MP, who let fly late in the meeting, rather as Hampton had in Devonport.

Responding to Labour claims on community policing, Watts animatedly accused his opponents of being “all big talk”.

The number of community constables was lower than it had been under National he said.

And just over the road, he noted was the former site of a Michael Hill jewellery store, which closed last year after a series of burglaries and ram-raids.

“This Labour Party has failed our community,” he said.

• Observer coverage of the final joint candidates meeting of the campaign, held in Milford after our deadline this week, will appear in our 13 October issue.

Briefs

The five contenders

The candidates standing in the North Shore electorate are: Pat Baskett, Green Party; Abe Gray, The Opportunities Party (TOP); George Hampton, Labour; Simon Watts, National; and Anna Yallop, Act. Those nominated in Te Tai Tokerau Ma-ori electorate, which covers the North Shore, are: Kelvin Davis, Labour; Maki Herbert, Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party; Mariameno Kapa-Kingi, Te Pa-ti Ma-ori; Hu-hana Lyndon, Green Party; and Paturiri Toautu, Independent.

When to vote

Out and about... Labour candidate George Hampton (left) throws himself into activities at the Stanley Bay Mud Run, while North Shore MP Simon Watts stopped by Takapuna cafe Kinship, where he picked up an Observer. He later posted this photograph noting he was honoured to share the front page “with two of my idols Elmo and Thor”. A pair of teens dressed as those characters featured in the photograph above his advertisement.

Advance voting runs from 2 to 13 October. Election day is Saturday 14 October, with voting places, including some schools and supermarkets, open from 9am to 7pm. A list of voting places can be found at vote.nz.

Budget service woes eclipsed by political roadshow

The

North Shore Budget Service

offices in Takapuna were commandeered last week as the backdrop for a National Party “stand-up”.

In front of a logo-laden party banner set up by his staff, party leader Christopher Luxon was grilled by journalists from television, radio, print and online media.

On nodding duty, a step behind the leader, were North Shore MP Simon Watts and Northcote candidate Dan Bidois.

The purpose of the visit – to hear about the issues the budget service and its clients face – was set aside, with questions focusing more on Luxon’s handling of past anti-fluoride statements by a current National candidate. Solar panels were also a hot topic of the day.

Left to one side, watching politics in ac-

tion, were the service’s budget advisers and a young couple Luxon had talked to earlier about their financial plight.

During this filmed chat, Watts played babysitter, entertaining the couple’s toddler, while Luxon heard about their struggles with the cost of living and housing affordability.

The service itself has a housing issue, being the last tenant left in the run-down Mary Thomas Centre which Auckland Council intends to sell. Other groups have been fitted into the Community Services Building on the Strand, but there is not enough room for the service and its volunteers.

Its chief executive, Drew Glucina, told the Observer she was desperate to find a new permanent home to meet growing demand.

This month she also outlined its challenges to the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board.

The service has been based in Takapuna for 30 years, but deals with clients from a wide catchment.

Glucina said cost of living was a big problem for many, but increasingly people were getting into debt by using easy-pay services.

Other clients had complex needs that went beyond calling on advice. They required total money management, for which the service was no longer adequately funded.

Hauraki resident Nick Handey, a semi-retired engineer who volunteers as a financial mentor, told the Observer during Luxon’s visit that volunteering was satisfying, but in some cases, a way forward was hard to find.

Though RNZ ran an item about the budget service, other media were clearly pursuing different agendas for their nightly news soundbites.

Runner covers 181km for charity

Runner Mitchell Carlyle clocked up 181kms in 24 hours last weekend, raising $500 for a children’s charity.

The Westlake Boys High School old boy completed the Sri Chinmoy 24-hour event, in which competitors run as far as they can in 24 hours, at the AUT Millennium on Sunday morning.

He ran 10km further than he did in the same event last year, finishing fifth overall, despite the less-than-ideal conditions

Rain fell heavily throughout Saturday night, drenching the runners.

And Carlyle was off to his doctor on Monday with a toenail on the verge of detaching.

But he said he’s likely to sign up again when registration opens for next year’s event.

To face the physical challenge, Carlyle said runners needed to stay mentally strong throughout the event.

It included six- and 12-hour categories, and seeing people finish at 12 hours can be “mentally devastating” for someone only half-way through their run, he told the Observer.

The money Carlyle raised went to the charitable trust Kids Can.

He said child poverty was an issue that doesn’t get talked about enough.

Carlyle said he does endurance races and ultra-marathons because he wants to keep proving to himself that he can.

“It’s like a marathon for a lot of people –it’s a bucket-list thing.

“It also makes you feel so confident to be able to take on other challenges.”

The 24-year-old property valuer plans to do further fundraising runs for charities.

Although he flats these days on the city side of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, he well remembers his formative running years on the Shore, when his habitual route took him from his home in Milford to Devonport and back.

Striding out... Mitchell Carlyle, still smiling, after about six hours of the 24 hours he spent running at AUT Millennium last weekend

OUR $149 DOUBLE FACIAL SPECIAL IS BACK!

Spencer on Byron hotel has been told to restore a small public garden area that was in its original resource consent.

Auckland Council has issued an abatement notice, following concerns raised by Takapuna Residents Association about works on site. Compliance manager Adrian Wilson said a compliance officer had visited on 30 June and saw a car park had been created to the north-west of the site where there had previously been a garden space open to the public.

The abatement notice required this to be reinstated for public use, in accordance with consent conditions. Wilson said council would consider whether further enforcement was required after the expiry of the notice on 23 December.

Hotel ordered to restore garden Striped pots go

Giant striped planter pots and painted street dots have gone from Northcroft St in Takapuna. Speed cushions are also being removed and line markings reinstated, at a cost of $70,000, with work expected to be done this week, weather permitting.

Eke Panuku said it would make scaledback street improvements at the end of the year or early next. These would include a pedestrian crossing from the Sentinel building, extra lighting and tree planting.

The controversial Innnovating Streets programme, trialled initially on both Northcroft and Huron Sts, using funding from Waka Kotahi, was rolled back after negative public feedback. Decisions on Huron St changes are to come.

The striped pots and other trial features will be reused elsewhere where possible, a spokesperson said.

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Diversity showcased at Takapuna Normal

Takapuna Normal Intermediate School hosted an array of activities last week to create greater awareness of the diverse cultural practices of its students.

The activities, which included South African Khoisan and Bantu art, Chinese calligraphy and history, Japanese writing in katakana and more took place at lunchtimes through the week.

The school’s languages lead, Leanna Elmes, said she wanted to improve the festivities from last year, which were mostly teacher-led, by having students “take charge” of the activities.

That goal was achieved, she said, with most of the cultural games, art, workshops and calligraphy lessons organised by students with the help of their parents.

Elmes hopes the week will lead to students having greater understanding and awareness of their peers’ cultures.

Chopsticks challenge... (above, from left) Ivy Hu (13), Maya Davies (12), Jake Gallagher (12), Felix Liu (12) try against the clock to get as many marbles into a bowl as possible. Right: Time for tea... (from left) Lily Sun (13), Areesha Khan (12) and Taylor Wong (13) enjoy green tea made in the traditional Chinese way.

Figuratively speaking... Lin Qi (13), who has been practising Chinese calligraphy since he was three years old, says it helps him relax

Paper mates... Showing off their Chinese paper cutting designs are (from left) Bella Le (12), Annzu Suetake (11), parents Wayne Bryant and Qiqi Hang, Aida Thompson (obscured), Yina Zheng (11) and Lucas Bryant (11).

Sunday, 1st October

Beaches | Views | Heritage

Sustainability with style

21km Half Marathon

10km Classic

5km Fun Run & Walk

2km Kids Dash

Year 8 students from Carmel College crafted garments out of upcycled clothes and repurposed materials for an Eco Fashion event last week. Above: Taking out top spot with their ‘Revolution’ creation were (from left) Elliott Hou, Chloe Barrett and Katie George. Left: ‘The Starry Sight’ won second place in the wearable art category for (from left) Trisha Agustin, Shanel Digges and Liela Patterson.

Letter

Fraction of coastal rates would fund walkway work

Regarding the recent article about the coastal walkway (Observer, 1 September):

• The North Shore City Council used to maintain the walkway as well as take regular triangulations to ensure the integrity of the coastal sewer line.

• Does council expect the 72 private landowners to pay for the maintenance of what is a public walkway? Permission I am sure would be readily granted by them to council.

• Council should consider the rates they collect from those 72 properties and realise only a very small portion is needed for maintenance.

• Council hides behind lack of funds. Let’s get the things done that need to be done. Stop the wastage on street-beautification projects, footpath painting, etc.

• Most of the foreshore is reasonable walking. Only a few sections need attention for unstable rocks, etc. Council talks of a paved walkway – no one wants that.

Church adopts new identity after

Stymied over a well-advanced plan to build 50 apartments on the rear of its prominent corner site, the Takapuna Methodist Church has instead opted to rebrand under a new ‘Puriri Centre’ banner.

Housed in a distinctive century-old Spanish Mission-style hall and 1959 church building in pink concrete-block on a site at the corner of Lake Rd and Tennyson Ave, the parish had planned a major development which would have allowed it to refurbish its heritage buildings.

It planned to build six levels of apartments across the rear of the property and ultimately have a cafe in a reconfigured hall, plus a new community centre with offices above on the Lake Rd side of the site.

Rev Peter Norman, who is superintendent of the combined Northcote-Takapuna Methodist Parish, said the parish had been “completely” behind the development, with detailed plans having been drawn up by top architecture firm Jasmax.

“It was a great plan,” said parish-council member Chris Gregory.

TAKAPUNA | 1/14 CLIFTON ROAD Charming Residence | Clifton Road

• Does the council have a duty of care knowing the walkway is de facto public property?

But just ahead of submitting the plans for resource consent in 2020, the national Methodist Church organisation – which holds the site title – halted the project, concerned at a perceived financial risk.

concept, under which the church is inviting the wider community to make greater use of its buildings.

Norman said the hall at the gateway to central Takapuna had been part of the local community since it was built a century ago. “We want to build on that.”

Est.1984

The church, which is also home to a Korean Methodist congregation, already has a childcare company, dental practices, community-services group Respect and an English-language tuition provider operating on the site.

But the facilities have probably been under-utilised, Norman said. Under the new identity, the wider community, including other non-profit organisations, is being invited to use them.

“The plan is to put new energy into the place.”

The “Puriri” name had been gifted by iwi two or three years ago. It references the large puriri tree – which may also date back to the 1920s – on the corner outside the hall.

Norman said the concept wasn’t aimed at bringing people into the church. “We view this as a community asset,” he said. “It’s here to be used by the community.”

• Why can’t council/councillors make decisions within a reasonable timeframe?

John Struthers

“They said to go away and look at other options,” Norman said.

Out of that has come the Puriri Centre

Located on a sunny street-front position in sought after Clifton Road, this home has been immaculately kept by the original owners for 28 years and has a lot to offer. Spacious ground floor kitchen, living and dining areas flow seamlessly to a gorgeous courtyard area with manicured lawns and gardens which enjoy privacy and a lovely all-day sun aspect. Comprising three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus guest wc, two living areas (one of which could be a 4th bedroom or study), a double garage and laundry room. Great school zones.

premium.co.nz /80444 VIEW | PHONE FOR VIEWING TIMES

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ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

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Gregory said that though the church had always made its premises available, it had refocused its purpose. “We’ve got to be very much outward focused. It’s about being part of an evolving community.”

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

Est.1984

Est.1984

ZOOMED VIEW

TAKAPUNA | 1/14 CLIFTON ROAD

Charming Residence | Clifton Road

25C PROSPECT TERRACE Idyllic Living | Panoramic Sea Views

TAKAPUNA | 1/14 CLIFTON ROAD Charming Residence | Clifton Road

Located on a sunny street-front position in sought after Clifton Road, this home has been immaculately kept by the original owners for 28 years and has a lot to offer. Spacious ground floor kitchen, living and dining areas flow seamlessly to a gorgeous courtyard area with manicured lawns and gardens which enjoy privacy and a lovely all-day sun aspect. Comprising three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus guest wc, two living areas (one of which could be a 4th bedroom or study), a double garage and laundry room. Great school zones.

Presenting this fantastic four bedroom family home on blue chip Prospect Terrace, close to the beach and just a short stroll from Milford via an exclusive use access-way. Enjoying an elevated north facing position with picturesque Hauraki Gulf views and an excellent floor plan offering numerous options for couples, extended/blended family with semi self contained area this home offers an idyllic lifestyle. Spacious open plan kitchen living and dining areas capture all day sun flowing seamlessly to a spacious deck.

Located on a sunny street-front position in sought after Clifton Road, this home has been immaculately kept by the original owners for 28 years and has a lot to offer. Spacious ground floor kitchen, living and dining areas flow seamlessly to a gorgeous courtyard area with manicured lawns and gardens which enjoy privacy and a lovely all-day sun aspect. Comprising three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus guest wc, two living areas (one of which could be a 4th bedroom or study), a double garage and laundry room. Great school zones.

PRICE | BY NEGOTIATION

premium.co.nz /80444 VIEW | PHONE FOR VIEWING TIMES

PRICE | BY NEGOTIATION

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000 premium.co.nz /80450 VIEW | PHONE FOR VIEWING TIMES

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

big apartment development foiled

Briefs

Holiday activities

Branching out... Rev Peter Norman and parish-council member

Chris Gregory, in front of the puriri tree referenced in the Takapuna Methodist Church’s new Puriri Centre branding

It has already had community ‘enablers’ working around the North Shore, and an involvement in projects such as a Know Your Neighbours initiative in Meadowood (which developed into a nationwide Neighbours Aotearoa project), Kaitiaki Dinners

TAKAPUNA | 1/14 CLIFTON ROAD Charming Residence | Clifton Road

produced by the Kai 4 Communities Trust, and children’s craft afternoons. The parish still aims to refurbish the church and hall, undertaking seismic strengthening and reconfiguring the church space for greater flexibility.

Located on a sunny street-front position in sought after Clifton Road, this home has been immaculately kept by the original owners for 28 years and has a lot to offer. Spacious ground floor kitchen, living and dining areas flow seamlessly to a gorgeous courtyard area with manicured lawns and gardens which enjoy privacy and a lovely all-day sun aspect. Comprising three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus guest wc, two living areas (one of which could be a 4th bedroom or study), a double garage and laundry room. Great school zones.

premium.co.nz /80444 VIEW | PHONE FOR VIEWING TIMES

PRICE | BY NEGOTIATION

TAKAPUNA | 25C PROSPECT TERRACE Idyllic Living | Panoramic Sea Views

TAKAPUNA | 1/14 CLIFTON ROAD Charming Residence | Clifton Road

Presenting this fantastic four bedroom family home on blue chip Prospect Terrace, close to the beach and just a short stroll from Milford via an exclusive use access-way. Enjoying an elevated north facing position with picturesque Hauraki Gulf views and an excellent floor plan offering numerous options for couples, extended/blended family with semi self contained area this home offers an idyllic lifestyle. Spacious open plan kitchen living and dining areas capture all day sun flowing seamlessly to a spacious deck.

premium.co.nz /80450 VIEW | PHONE FOR VIEWING TIMES

Located on a sunny street-front position in sought after Clifton Road, this home has been immaculately kept by the original owners for 28 years and has a lot to offer. Spacious ground floor kitchen, living and dining areas flow seamlessly to a gorgeous courtyard area with manicured lawns and gardens which enjoy privacy and a lovely all-day sun aspect. Comprising three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus guest wc, two living areas (one of which could be a 4th bedroom or study), a double garage and laundry room. Great school zones.

PRICE | BY NEGOTIATION

premium.co.nz /80444 VIEW | PHONE FOR VIEWING TIMES

PRICE | BY NEGOTIATION

Est.1984

Takapuna’s recently opened Waiwharariki Anzac Square is hosting free children’s activities over the holidays, including ‘Hungerball’ games, played in an inflatable arena. Junk Play sessions will also be held, in a pop-up, loose-parts playground. Sessions are being put on by the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board. The schedule has junk play this Friday and Saturday, 29-30 September, 10am2pm. Hungerball is on Saturday, 10am1pm; Wednesday 4 October and Friday 6 October at the same time; and Saturday 7 October, from 2pm-5pm.

Centre figure recognised

Sunnynook Community Centre’s longstanding manager Bronwyn Bound has won international recognition from Rotary. Its East Coast Bays branch nominated her as a Paul Harris Fellow, for outstanding community service. Harris was Rotary’s founder.

Garden fundraiser

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

Grow Forrest Hill is holding its annual Spring Festival and fundraising seedling sale on Sunday 15 October, from 2pm to 3pm. The community garden based in Seine Reserve will have fun activities for children, while gardeners can stock up on seedlings, including heirloom tomato varieties not available in shops.

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

Est.1984

ZOOMED VIEW

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 2494

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

RobertMilne@premium.co.nz

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611

RichardMilne@premium.co.nz

TAKAPUNA 916 6000

Let signs of spring inspire your garden creativity

Keen to brighten up your garden after a long, wet winter? Try these smart tips from Hauraki-based Sculpt Gardens to help you to create a successful outdoor space.

1. FIRST THINGS FIRST

If you haven’t been out in the garden much over the wet winter, one of the first things to tackle is your outdoor furniture – yip, we’re talking about giving it a good clean! A scrub with warm water and sugar soap will get your furniture looking as good as new.

2. OUTDOOR FURNITURE IDEAS

Do you have enough seating to cater for all your friends & family this summer? When choosing outdoor furniture remember the three S-factors: structure, size and style. It always pays to think about the layout of your garden and how the furniture will fit into it – take into account the size of the space you have and the furniture you need.

Make sure that you have a generous flow between your home, doorways, pathways and furniture.

When choosing a table setting, think about the number of people you normally have over when you entertain. Bench seats are a good way to get lots of people around a table without the clutter of lots of chairs.

Finally, don’t forget accessories to refresh your outdoor area – and inject a touch of colour! Think cushions, rugs, throws and beanbags.

3. PIMP YOUR POTS

Use pots around your deck and outdoor seating areas to bring colour and style to your summer garden.

Remember ‘Thriller, Filler and Spiller’ when choosing plants for your pot:

• The ‘thriller’ is the main feature plant.

• Choose a different type of plant to ‘fill’ the remaining space

• Lastly add a ‘spiller’ to cascade down the side of the container

Choose plants that share colour or textural similarities to create a professional and stylish display.

4. MULCH, MULCH, MULCH

One of the challenges with summer is keeping your garden well-watered as the weather heats up. Mulching protects your plants from extremes in temperatures, keeps roots moist, suppresses weed growth and creates a tidy, well-cared-for look. The ideal time to mulch is after it’s rained, to trap the moisture in the soil.

Shining a light on commercial property funds

Oyster Property Group’s retail investment manager Rich Lyons reveals the qualities that attract investors to commercial property.

Kiwis have long favoured residential property as their go-to investment and a means of securing their financial future, believing it’s “as safe as houses”. But for some, owning a property, whether to live in, or as an investment, is out of bounds due to the hefty deposit or high levels of maintenance, or both.

That doesn’t mean you should rule out property as an investment option altogether. While not as widely understood as residential investment, unlisted commercial property funds also provide investors with a similar tangible, bricks and mortar investment, minus the admin and high barriers to entry.

In a nutshell, investing in an unlisted property fund allows investors to buy commercial property in “bite-sized” amounts alongside other investors.

Oyster Property Group is one of New Zealand’s leading unlisted commercial property fund managers and has been providing retail and wholesale investors with access to quality commercial property investment options and consistent returns for more than 20 years.

With approximately $1.9 billion in assets under management, its experienced team of property experts purchase quality properties of significant scale in the office, industrial, and large-format retail sectors, which are then managed in-house

by a team of dedicated property managers with deep sector knowledge.

The firm implements active fund management strategies, and an in-house investment relations team provides regular updates and reporting to investors.

Working to a robust buying criterion, Oyster looks for commercial properties in sought-after locations, close to amenities and transport links, where appropriately zoned land is in tight supply.

Our investment philosophy is to target quality commercial property with enduring occupier demand, that’s well located and close to

amenities, and has reputable tenants.

Stability is a big drawcard for our investors. Generally, commercial property isn’t subject to the same sentiment-based volatility investors can experience in the share market and has proved its ability to weather periods of major economic instability.

We’re proud to provide thousands of New Zealanders access to both wholesale and retail investment opportunities that offer longterm investment returns, backed by strong fundamentals and the resilience of the commercial property asset class.

Oyster property fund, Millennium Centre, Ellerslie

Making magical spaces

The perception that garden design primarily emphasises plants is a common misconception, she says. “Plants are just like sprinkles on a cake – it’s the last part of the design process.”

She says the purpose of garden design is to entice people to leave the comfort of their sofas and spend time outside.

Garden designers transform spaces into settings where families and friends can come together, share stories and enjoy each other’s company. “This is where the magic happens.”

Talbot believes garden design is a dynamic process that can evolve along with a household. “The garden requirements for a young family with small children differ significantly from those of an older couple whose children have left the nest,” she says.

Garden designs must adapt to fit diverse needs and preferences.

Her natural curiosity means Talbot is well-suited to reach an understanding of what kind of design might best work for a particular household.

“I love to see people in their homes and find the variety of human existence utterly fascinating,” she says.

Do you entertain? Have dogs? Do you like solitude and reading books in your garden? Is a pool or spa part of the mix? Do you want a productive garden or just need some herbs? Do you need angles of privacy to be created? Do you own a boat? Is a fish filleting sink needed? What about sheds, bikes, surfboards, bins for composting or a fireplace? And if you’re opting for the latter, where does the wood go? All these questions and more produce information that feeds into a design process.

“The New Zealand lifestyle lends itself to acquiring a lot of stuff and if organised well enough we can live tidily,” Talbot says.

She is also well aware that priorities can alter according to the time of day: what needs to be a space for kids to run loose in the daytime might need to double as a more intimate setting in the evening.

Talbot arrived from the UK 23 years ago. She lives in Hauraki with her husband and three children, who attend Takapuna Grammar and Belmont Intermediate Schools.

After studying psychology at university in Birmingham, Talbot ’s love for gardens came about after she wrote a book called Relax and Grow Rich – which is both a nod to Napoleon Hill’s best seller Think and Grow Rich and somewhat inspired by the story of Archimedes having an epiphany in the bath.

“The point being that we have our best ideas when we are in a relaxed state,” she says.

“Everyone has an activity where you go into this state of flow. For some people it’s running, some it’s knitting. For me, it’s placing plants into the ground. I’m in this state of calmness.

“This was especially important for me when at one stage I had three children under five. The garden was my only reprieve.”

And although planting is the last part of her garden-design process, she admits it’s still her favourite part – and something she likes to get just right. As something of a perfectionist, she has been known to move plants by centimetres to find the perfect spot.

Talbot says she offers her clients a different perspective and a new, expert set of eyes on what might seem a problem.

She finds personal relationships within a household can also provide exciting challenges. “You might face a ‘yin and yang’ scenario such as one person preferring straight lines and the other curves.”

She strongly emphasises the importance of future-proofing gardens, ensuring they remain relevant and functional over time.

One example of this is the use of a mulched area under a trampoline that can be repurposed when the trampoline is outgrown. She always looks to provide a flexible canvas for potential future adaptations.

Her gardens also reflect the particular challenges of Auckland weather and soils. “Most people have had something die this year due to the large amounts of rain we’ve had clogging up the clay soil we have in this region,” she says.

It’s often important to identify plants that can thrive in wet conditions but also survive in the event of a summer drought.

Mounding – typically involving the use of bottomless planters – and mulching can also help plants succeed in variable conditions. “The mulch on the top layer breaks down and creates nutrients to filter down,” she explains.

Even if garden design isn’t all about plants, creating the conditions for greenery to thrive is all part of the formula for producing spaces “where the magic happens”.

“It’s not about the plants!” says Claire Talbot, garden designer and proud owner of Sculpt Landscape Design.

Local knowledge on the real estate beat

Kathryn Robertson of Bayleys has specialised in property around the North Shore suburbs from Milford to Devonport for almost 15 years. Her role is quite a contrast to her former life working as a police officer on the streets of South Auckland, but one she acknowledges is not that different. These days, Kathryn loves the variety of real estate where (like policing) no two days are the same, and it’s “all about the people”.

Admitting her point of difference “being normal”, is not that compelling as a tagline, Kathryn believes it helps clients feel an instant sense of rapport and relatability. It is evident she has a clear understanding of the psychology and emotion involved when buying and selling property.

Equipped with clear communication, a steadiness under pressure and finely honed negotiation skills, Kathryn’s experience spans the residential spectrum, and includes commercial sales and leasing, investment property portfolios, developments and beyond. Much of her work is on a repeat or referral basis, confirmation of the sound long-term advice she gives.

It also helps that Kathryn is firmly entrenched in the community she works in. She has lived on the North Shore for over 40 years (over 10 of those in Hauraki), and her two teenage children attend Takapuna Grammar School. She is a regular sponsor and donor to local charities, schools, and sports clubs, and is trusted and well-liked in her community.

Kathryn’s experience spans the residential spectrum, and includes commercial sales and leasing, investment property portfolios, developments and beyond.

Live local. Work local.

ShoreJobs.co.nz

Kerr & Associates Ltd Chartered Accountant

We require a senior accountant for our chartered accountancy practice in Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore. The applicant must be a member of the Institute of Chartered Accounts of Australia & New Zealand and have sufficient experience to independently manage a large portion of the practice fees.

Please send your C.V. to The Director at  wackrowstreet@gmail.com

Kerr & Associates Ltd Office Administrator/ Receptionist

We require an office administrator/ receptionist for our chartered accountancy practice in Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore. Duties would include all the usual office functions plus the management and maintenance of practice clients and their relationship with IRD, Companies Office and ACC. Previous CA office experience is preferred but not essential.  Hours of work are flexible.

Please send your C.V. to The Director at  wackrowstreet@gmail.com

Sports Briefs

W’lakes ace Māori code

Westlake Boys and Girls High Schools combined k ī -o-rahi teams had a triumphant tournament at the Auckland champs, where the schools’ A and B squads faced off in the final. Team A cruised into the final a fortnight ago while team B fought hard to get there, upsetting more fancied Waiorea and King’s College in the quarter- and semi-finals. Team A won the final 25-11 – their second title of the year, having won nationals in April.

Takapuna go down

Takapuna FC have been relegated from the Northern League after losing 3-1 away at West Coast Rangers FC on the final day of the season. Bay Olympic’s win over Manurewa AFC saw them go level with Takapuna on points and survive on a goal difference five better than Takapuna’s. Takapuna will next season compete in the Championship, the second division for the northern area, alongside local rivals North Shore United. East Coast Bays and Tauranga City will compete in the Northern League next season after gaining promotion. Manukau United FC finished bottom of the Northern League so will join Takapuna in relegation to the Championship.

Club Manager - North Shore United Association Football Club Full-Time Flexible Hours - Independent Contract Role

The oldest Club in NZ is seeking a Club Manager to oversee our administrative and hospitality operations of managing all things a Football Club needs.  The successful candidate will work with Volunteers, the Football Development Manager, Team Managers, Coaches, Northern Regional Football, Council and hospitality staff to ensure the overall smooth functioning of our Club.   Reporting to the board via the Chair and Treasurer, you will be able to work independently, have strong interpersonal skills

and good written and verbal English language skills.

You would ideally have proven experience in administration or operations management, preferably in a sports organization or football club, excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, proficiency in XERO and accounts payable, database management, hospitality and bar licence (or work to obtain one), exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and of course a passion for football would be advanta-

geous to ensure a commitment to the success of the club.

This is a contract role where you will be responsible for your own taxes, costs and supply your own laptop. The role is based at Allen Hill Clubrooms and surrounding Club areas but when required working from home is easily balanced with this.  A club mobile phone is provided for use for Club phone calls and internet access.  Training and handover support will be provided by the outgoing Club Manager.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience to office@nsu.org.nz. Please include “Club Manager Application - [Your Name]” in the subject line.  Applications will close on 6th October however NSUAFC reserves the right to close applications earlier if a suitable candidate is found before this time. Join us in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of North Shore United Association Football Club, and be part of a community that is dedicated to excellence and the love of football!

Spotlight on local history in Heritage Festival activities

The Auckland Heritage Festival began this week, with lots of local opportunities to learn about our past.

The festival theme this year is Peace, Love and Protest, marking 50 years since nuclear-free protests were embraced by the nation, with Devonport especially celebrating its role in this movement.

But the festival also presents the chance to learn about other aspects of North Shore heritage:

Celebrating a century

View a century’s worth of photos and memorabilia documenting the history of the Milford Cruising Club. When: Saturday 7 October - Sunday 8 October, 10am-4pm. Where: 24 Craig Road, Milford.

Kennedy Park and Rahopara Pa

Tour the historic gun emplacements and tunnels of Kennedy Park and visit one of the last remaining headland pā along this stretch of coast. When: Thursday 5 October, 10am12pm. Where: 43 Beach Rd, Castor Bay.

Historic coastal defences of Maungauika

Some of Maungauika’s defence structures were built during the Russian War scares of the 1880s. Tour the gun positions and tunnels while hearing all the secrets and stories, from suggestions of flying boats hidden in secret tunnels to a rumoured hidden ammu-

nition dump. When: Saturdays and Sundays until 8 October. Tours at 10am and 2pm. Where: 64 King Edward Pde, Devonport.

PumpHouse poetry

The PumpHouse (pictured) invites you for a night of poetry in keeping with the festival’s theme at one of Takapuna’s most iconic heritage sites. Lake Pupuke will also be the subject of a poem and some will be in te reo. When: Sunday 1 October, 3pm-4.30pm. Where: 2a Manurere Ave, Takapuna.

Lake House saved by art Lake House Arts presents an interactive tour telling the story of how a plucky bunch of locals prevented the destruction of the then-Coach House in the 1990s. When: Until Saturday 30 September, 2pm-3.30pm. Where: Lake House Arts, 37 Fred Thomas Dr, Takapuna.

Stories of protest and peace

Archeologist Dave Veart shares his knowledge of Devonport’s rich history, from the first human settlement in 1350 to protests and campaigning against nuclear intrusion and much more. When: Wednesday 27 September and Sunday 8 October, 11am-12pm. Where: Devonport Museum.

A timeline of protest

Track Devonport’s role in the anti-nuke groundswell that led to our nation’s eventual nuclear-free stance, through displays at Devonport Library. Historical photographs and information will be exhibited on the windows of the library’s north-facing corner and be visible from outside. More will be displayed inside. Origami boats, made by local school children to represent the on-water anti-nuke protests, will also be on display.

A full list of events can be found on the Auckland Heritage Festival website: heritagefestival.co.nz

Welcome to Waiwharariki Anzac Square

TAKAPUNA

Now open in the heart of Takapuna

A place to share the sun, the excitement and the energy in the heart of our seaside town centre.

Waiwharariki Anzac Square is part of the urban regeneration of Takapuna led by Eke Panuku on behalf of Auckland Council. Thank you to local residents, the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, the Takapuna Beach Business Association and mana whenua.

Our goal is to make the most of Takapuna’s unique lake and beachside location by revitalising the town centre.

ekepanuku.co.nz/takapuna

Takapuna exhibition of paintings from up over

Life on the other side of the world and exploring new horizons are at the centre of a local artist’s first solo exhibition.

Holly Haines’s A Journey in Oils reflects on how she got from Auckland to Edinburgh, and depicts some of the urban and natural landscapes she has experienced in her new location and the feelings they evoked.

Haines said her latest set of works is different to anything she’s done before following the discovery of new ways to express herself on the canvas.

“I have experimented with different colour palettes. Some of these paintings use more neutrals and greys to create an atmosphere inspired by Scotland,” she said.

“In some of the paintings I have chosen to keep brighter and sharper light and colours reminiscent of New Zealand.”

Haines said compositional choices in her works are how she tries to communicate the feelings of the locations she paints.

“Greyer colours and a dramatic sky might depict the feeling of vastness and power of a landscape.”

She said certain compositions make the viewer “feel like they are looking through a window at a snapshot in time”.

Haines grew up in Milford, before relocating to Edinburgh in June last year.

Although she had an itch to explore the world outside of New Zealand, the opportunity to study traditional and classical oil painting at the Edinburgh Atelier of Fine Art was the main reason she headed for Scotland.

Haines, who has previously sold works at Takapuna gallery Art by the Sea, said she chose it for her first solo exhibition because it was the first to give her a chance to show her work.

She said another reason for having the exhibition in New Zealand was that it’ll

always be where she’s from. “Even if I am living overseas, I want to keep a connection back home.”

A painter since 11 years old, Haines mainly works with oils, saying she likes the texture and depth of colour the medium allows.

The former Westlake Girls High School student said she’d like to continue learning more about oil painting techniques by exper-

imenting with unconventional colour choices within traditional painting techniques.

The master painters at the atelier have lots of knowledge on traditional techniques to learn from, she said.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed her time in Scotland. Although the winter took some getting used to, she said the people have been really friendly and there’s lots of historical

Easel does it... Holly Haines works on a canvas in the early morning light at Portobello Beach, just outside Edinburgh

reflects Shore artist’s relocation to Scottish capital

architecture to be inspired by.

That inspiration is evident in the exhibition, with works depicting the atmospheric streets of the Scottish capital along with Scotland’s rural landscapes, glistening lochs and mountainous terrain.

A Journey in Oils opens at Art by the Sea, 162 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna on 7 October and runs until 27 October.

Creative Talk

2 October – 7pm A

Late Night Knife Fight

6 October – 9pm

Improv team battle

The Welkin

11-15 October

The NZ premiere of a feminist history play – a courtroom drama by Lucy Kirkwood

NOW

COMING

Bonny views... In Heather in the Highlands (above left), Holly Haines uses the gleaming light to capture the crisp coldness of the Scottish winter, while Princes Street – Edinburgh (right) depicts the main street of the city’s Georgian ‘new town’

TAKAPUNA | GE/6 COLLINS STREET

Tropical Oasis Meets Urban Convenience

Experience luxury living at Toscana in Central Takapuna! This three bedroom garden apartment offers direct access to tennis courts, a tropical pool, and a BBQ area. Just steps away from Takapuna’s cafes, shops, and more, this spacious apartment is in a secure complex with two parking spaces and ample storage. Three double bedrooms open to a private terrace and garden leading to the pool, making it ideal for families or retirees seeking convenience and comfort in central Takapuna. Contact us now to view Toscana and embrace a life of luxury, convenience, and tranquility!

premium.co.nz /80457 VIEW | SUN 1 - 1.40 PM OR BY APPOINTMENT

PRICE | $1,410,000

TAKAPUNA

2/19A SANDERS AVENUE

Easy Beachside Living Takapuna

Enjoy sea views from this block and cedar townhouse just a moment to Takapuna beach. With the best of living... a tremendous floor plan offering four bedrooms plus study, three bathrooms (incl ensuite) and two very separate living areas perfect for accommodating guests, teenagers or extended family, flowing seamlessly out to immaculate grounds.

premium.co.nz/ 80449

VIEW | SAT/SUN 1 - 1.45 PM OR BY APPT

AUCTION | 19 OCT 2023 2PM UNLESS SOLD PRIOR

LEWIS GUY 021 867 355 | TAKAPUNA 916 6000

TAKAPUNA

314C HURSTMERE ROAD

Lakefront | Modern Masonry Residence

This near-new masonry home is gated and situated on a 407sqm freehold title along the ‘golden mile’ lakefront. Featuring superb living with a built-in lift, abundant sunlight, and an open-plan upstairs living area with expansive lake views. A private pool complex is accessible from a separate downstairs living area. The property includes 3 bedrooms, a study/storage room, 2 bathrooms, a double garage.

premium.co.nz/80365

VIEW | BY APPOINTMENT PRICE | $3.59M

ROBERT MILNE 022 011 24 94

RICHARD MILNE 021 770 611 | OFFICE 916 6000

ALISON PARKER 021 983 533

AlisonParker@premium.co.nz