APRIL'12 - PONSONBY NEWS

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APRIL 2012 ponsonbynews.co.nz

WEDDINGS + CIVIL UNIONS

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PUBLISHED 5 APRIL, 2012 EST: OCTOBER 1989 – CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

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From left: BRAVISTA at Ponsonby Market Day; WEDDINGS and CIVIL UNIONS; Ponsonby winter fashion – TKSTORE; we welcome LANI LOPEZ, our new columnist.

Below right: DAVID BROWN of LORD PONSONBY ANTIQUES with JILLIAN BASHFORD of BASHFORD ANTIQUES at an Antique Expo (taken in Wellington in 1990!)

008 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 009 FROM THE PUBLISHING TEAM 014 SHALE CHAMBERS: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD

018 DAVID HARTNELL:

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

020 JOHN ELLIOTT: SOAPBOX 022 PIPPA COOM: GREY LYNN 2030 030 PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

033 WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS 034 JAY PLATT: WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT 048 EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY 056 SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY 058 FASHION + STYLE

068 ANGELA LASSIG: LETTERS FROM MAUDIE

069 LIVING, THINKING + BEING 070 HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY 072 HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS 076 JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH 078 PLANET AYURVEDA: ASK DR AJIT 082 LANI LOPEZ: ON HEALTH 084 DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET: THE DUCHESS OF HAMILTON

088 FUTURE GENERATION 092 FIONNA HILL: THE PONSONBY GARDENER

093 HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS 096 STREET NAMES

024 106 UPCLOSE AND PERSONAL 110 THE BOYS BOOK CLUB 114 PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS 116 PONSONBY PEOPLE & THEIR PETS 119 ARTS + CULTURE 130 PONSONBY PINK PAGES COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Michael McClintock

PONSONBY NEWS+ is published monthly, excluding January ry byy ALCHEMY A MEDIA LIMITED P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland T: (09) 378 8553 or (09) 361 3356 www.ponsonbynews.co.nzz Editor/Publisher Associate Publisher & Advertising Manager Deputy Editor Operations Manager Contributing Fashion Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Proof Reader Layout Designer Designer

Like us! www.facebook.com/ponsonbynews

MARTIN LEACH; M: 021 771 147; E: martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz JO BARRETT; M: 021 324 510; E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz JAY PLATT; M: 021 771 146; E: jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz GWYNNE DAVENPORT; M: 021 150 4095; E: ponsonbynews@xtra.co.nz JULIE ROULSTON; M: 027 211 7169; E: julie@ponsonbynews.co.nz DEIRDRE ROELANTS; M: 021 261 8439; E: deir@xtra.co.nz PROUDLY PRINTED JOHN ELLIOTT; M: 021 879 054; E: johnelliott@ihug.co.nz

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LETTERS + EMAILS

PLEASE SEND LETTERS TO info@ponsonbynews.co.nz

DOG TAX - TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION The USA went to war with England over this.

What are you going to do about it on behalf of your dog?

The City Council surveyed all and sundry about new dog laws without even mentioning that they are planning a new dog tax. Tucked away in a whole bunch of documents (as usual) they propose a huge increase in the cost of owning a dog. This is not a cost to those irresponsible people who do not register their dogs, it is for those people who are responsible enough and dearly love their pet.

There is no mention of a parrot tax, a cat tax or even a rabbit tax.

Why don’t you write to your City Councillor and ask them to declare if they are dog friendly or dog haters. Ask them if they have been bitten yet? You may want to point out that this may come back to bite them.

Are we putting the bite on the dogs before they bite us?

How come we just had a very expensive survey of everybody on what we should do on behalf of dogs in our community with no mention of a dog tax? However a dog tax is hidden away in an obscure planning document which nobody wants to own. Is this a doggy conspiracy? Next it will be your budgie.

Dog owners stand up for your rights and protest the tax, it is nothing to do with benefits for dogs or their owners, it is everything to do with collecting from honest citizens whilst failing to penalise the irresponsible.

If you want to register your view go to http//dogtax.mockup.co.nz MIKE MOORE, St Marys Bay FANMAIL ALL THE WAY FROM PARNELL! Picked up my first copy of your magazine from the Ponsonby Community Centre recently and thoroughly enjoyed it! Fantastic work and praise to all the team there.

SAJEIL NAIKER, Sidekick Accountant, DJCA Ltd, Parnell

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LIKE US! www.facebook.com/ponsonbynews DOG LICENCE FEES I read Jennifer Buckley’s letter in the last issue about dog licence fees - but is anyone else concerned about the doubling of Resource Consent fees? In our neighbourhood we’re obligated to apply for a RC for any change to our property, the application is going from $750 to $1500 - and that doesn’t cover the ‘report’ Council then charges for! KATE WOODRUFFE, by email PN - SUCH A GREAT READ I was stuck at the airport recently waiting for friends whose plane had been delayed, but luckily I had the latest issue of Ponsonby News in my car. I just wanted to compliment you with making the magazine such a great read for us locals and I really love the quality of your new paper stock. JANE LUDGATE, Grey Lynn THE BRONZE GOAT ON PONSONBY ROAD Would any of your readers know who the artist was whose painting of a garden was in the Bronze Goat which used to be based at 180 Ponsonby Road? I think it was by an English artist who lived on Waiheke.

ANN WAUGH, by email ann_waugh@hotmail.com ART IN PONSONBY Six months ago I moved from Wellington to become a permanent Ponsonby resident and as an avid art lover I have to say I enjoy reading your colourful and interesting arts section: my favourite read in Ponsonby News. The arts section seems to get bigger and bigger each month! It’s so good to learn about what is going on in the world of art in the local galleries.

I’m thrilled to have checked out the ‘Dirty Girls’ exhibition at Black Asterisk, the Dale Gilmore show at Letham and I loved Scott McFarlane’s works at Whitespace gallery.

And if that’s not enough I have enjoyed reading about Devonport’s Depot Galleries and the fascinating work they are undertaking over there. Their Cultural Icons projects are a true celebration of the arts in New Zealand – really worth looking at. I will definitely take the time to pop across the bridge to visit The Depot.

Thank you Ponsonby News for keeping the local arts alive. ANA PARETI, Ponsonby

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FROM THE PUBLISHING TEAM

WE CHUCKLED READING DAVID HARTNELL’S COLUMN THIS MONTH WHICH features Anna Hoffman, New Zealand’s only registered full time Witch; she lives in both Napier and Grey Lynn where she grew up. We’ve all got our fingers crossed that her predictions for Ponsonby are proven correct - P18.

photography: Jane Blundell @ kloser

LAST MONTH, SERGEANT CRAIG CARTWRIGHT FROM PONSONBY POLICE called me to introduce himself. As there had been a rumour that our local police station may be closing as a cost cutting exercise, we were keen to talk to him. He agreed that the new Auckland Superintendant is reviewing all stations but to date, he explained no decisions had been made – P20.

OUR MAIN FEATURE THIS MONTH DEALS WITH IDEAS AND PLANS FOR celebrating weddings and civil unions. The experts tell us that the budget is definitely one of the first things to focus on when you’re in the planning stages. There are some inexpensive options couples can choose from in lieu of a big budget blowout, including getting married in a brief civil ceremony, followed by an informal reception at the beach, around a friend’s pool or in your favourite neighbourhood bar.

If you’re wallet conscious but still keen to splurge a little, a “venue wedding” which takes place at a hotel, winery, restaurant, or other venue where a site coordinator plans everything for you for one package price is a great option. A wedding planner can also help with keeping an eye on your budget - no matter how big or small - and they often work closely with some of Auckland’s most popular venues to help things run seamlessly on the day.

Many couples keen to get a bigger bang for their buck will combine their nuptials with their honeymoon and opt for a destination wedding (also known as a “travel wedding” or a “honeymoon wedding”), and local travel agents like Harvey World Travel or World Journeys have many great contacts on hand if this sounds like your dream day.

ANOTHER FEATURE CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR JULIE ROULSTON HAS put together this month is her shoot of several winter season looks from Ponsonby designers. What does winter fashion bring to your mind? If it’s sharply tailored warm suiting, deftly accessorised sportswear layers or cozy textures, you’ll love what Ponsonby designers have to show you in these pages. You can layer it all over a luxe, jet black lingerie base – P62.

REGULAR READERS WILL BE AWARE THAT WE HAVE STARTED TO REVIEW DVDs in our pages and this month, contributing editor John Elliott has some thoughts

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

MARTIN LEACH, JULIE ROULSTON, JAY PLATT + JO BARRETT on a fascinating new documentary, “The Economics of Happiness”, a film showing how corporate-led globalisation is destroying our jobs, our environment, and our democracy. “Going local” is the way to repair our fractured world – our ecosystems, our societies, and ourselves. This is a powerful film, which shows how and why we are facing an environmental crisis, an economic crisis, and a crisis of the human spirit.

Many locals are aware of the Grey Lynn 20-30 Transition Towns project, and while the documentary’s producer Helena Norberg-Hodge doesn’t mention the Grey Lynn Farmer’s Market, this is one of a number of local initiatives, which the film praises. The film quoted a study showing shoppers at a local farmers market had an average of ten times the interactions and chats that they had at the supermarket. You only have to spend half an hour at the Grey Lynn Farmer’s Market to see and hear those happy, joyous interactions – P121.

ON THE EVE OF US GOING TO PRESS WITH THIS ISSUE, JERRY CLAYTON BMW produced their event ‘A PONSONBY NIGHT OF FASHION’ held at the Longroom. Ten of Ponsonby’s most exciting fashion labels hit the ‘runway’ in the heart of Ponsonby as part of a fabulousness-packed event which raised funds for Mercy Hospice.

(MARTIN LEACH – Editor/Publisher) PN

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PONSONBY MARKET DAY SATURDAY, 17 MARCH

St. Patrick’s Day coincided with last month’s Market Day, a date always looked forward to by both local businesses and residents. It also attracts many visitors for a day of music, entertainment, food and drink – fun for everyone. Thank you to the PBA for another great day, the next one is on 22 September. www.iloveponsonby.co.nz

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1. Maddie at the Hubcap Cafe cake stall; 2. Chapel Bar & Bistro - St Patrick’s Day Revellers; 3. Queen City Big Band; 4. Benjamin gets his face painted by Samantha Fernandes; 5. Darryl McLeod and Jacqui Dellar from Harcourts Ponsonby; 6. Cookies from Hubcap Cafe; 7. Sophie, Alesha, and Inger from Bravista; 8. Free Lunch Street Theatre Company (from Hamilton); 9. Ben Tankard from Allpress.

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CHAIR’S WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT: SHALE CHAMBERS THE PORTS OF AUCKLAND IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, historic and cultural life of our city. The founding fathers and mothers who arrived here in the mid 1800s saw the Waitemata Harbour and the waterfront area that is now owned by Auckland Council as an entranceway to Auckland and New Zealand.

Wharves were built and land reclaimed from the sea to take the new buildings for marine and fishing endeavours and warehousing. Boats came into the harbour to disgorge passengers and freight and then loaded up again to take our produce and goods to the world. Roads and rail joined up with the ports and then trams and motorways.

Our villages and city were built outwards from our waterfront to the south, north, east and west.

Working on the wharves to unload and then reload freight and goods has always been an important industry, first for mostly semiskilled labour but then, as mechanisation kicked in for highly skilled machine drivers and operators. The Watersiders union has been the backbone of the union movement and all the major industrial disputes have seen them stand up for all New Zealand’s workers in disputes with employers and government.

The wharfies’ employers have changed over the years but they were always within a government or local body ownership… the Harbour Board, the Auckland Regional Council and now our Auckland Council.

So to many it may have seemed like ‘business as usual’ when the Ports were legislated as a Council Controlled Organisation in the reorganisation of Auckland local government in 2010. However a National Government had put a ‘silver lining’ in the pocket of the Ports Chief Executive Tony Gibson. The Auckland Transition Authority at the Government’s direction removed all but two of the experienced directors of the Ports.

In addition they had put the appointment of the Ports of Auckland directors into the hands of the ACIL, the Investments CCO and thus twice removed from its owners … the people of Auckland via the Auckland Council.

As a twice removed council asset with only an ‘at arm’s length’ ability to have any say over one of Auckland’s important institutions, the newly appointed directors have been able to hoodwink councillors with soothing words about how they were bargaining in good faith with the union. Their real game plan was not even a secret… we all knew

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they were advertising abroad to replace union workers with cheaper contract staff and privatisation was back in the vocabulary as the ultimate aim of the CCO. At a time when the Waitemata Local Board elected members are meeting with their constituents and fronting up in public meetings to discuss resident’s priorities in the Waitemata area, non-elected directors of the Ports that supports 22% of the Auckland economy and sustains 187,000 jobs are doing the opposite. Behind closed doors they were making changes they could never sell at a public meeting and get public support for.

The dispute has revealed the ‘real agenda’ of Auckland’s local government reorganisation.

Aucklanders now appear to have no say over one of our enormously critical assets, and the future use of the money from those assets are put at risk with risky decisions by the new Ports’ directors and the CEO. Tying the Port up in knots in a manufactured dispute while not telling the owners the real agenda, and losing large amounts of trade for Auckland are not what we bought into when we elected local politicians to lead our city.

Over a billion dollars in dividends and capital repayments from the highly successful Ports have been returned to the Auckland economy over the last 20 years, which has allowed the renaissance in public transport to occur. Former owner of the Ports, the ARC, with local Councillor Mike Lee at its head, oversaw the wise spending of that money in investment in trains, ferry terminals, train stations, and the North Shore busway.

It was only in September last year that Ports of Auckland chief executive Tony Gibson himself boasted the rate of cargo unloaded off ships was “the best ever recorded at the Ports of Auckland”. The union says Auckland’s port is the second most time-efficient in Australasia, second only to Tauranga.

Your Waitemata Local Board has been one of the many voices urging both union and Ports management to get back to the bargaining table and bargain how the labour laws of our land intend. In good faith.

The city and its elected representatives face many difficult hurdles and challenges ahead of them in the final 18 months of this term, and risky decisions by Council Controlled Organisations have no place in our future. (SHALE CHAMBERS) PN Contact me: shale.chambers@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH ANNA HOFFMAN Anna Hoffman is New Zealand’s only registered full time witch; she lives in both Napier and Grey Lynn where she grew up.

WHAT TOOK YOU INTO A CAREER AS A WITCH? I first discovered my powers as a witch in 1949. My parents took me to the Auckland Zoo and I made a beeline for the tiger’s cage. Before anyone could stop me I had climbed over the outer guardrail and was patting Victor, the boy tiger, through the bars.

He was purring and dribbling just like a big cat. I wanted to take him home with me but I wasn’t allowed. Victor died a few months later.

WHAT DO YOU SEE IN THE FUTURE FOR PONSONBY? I have lived in Ponsonby at various times since the fifties and watched it grow, from shabby genteel to affluent genteel, so for me, now is the future. How can you improve on perfection? Without a doubt Ponsonby News is the voice of Ponsonby. I have the following predictions for the magazine and its present owners. I see the multi-nationals being extremely envious of its success and would love to take it over. I predict that the Ponsonby News will change hands in the first quarter of 2014, in a multi-million dollar deal. Within two years Martin and Jay will have launched a national bi-monthly magazine, which will become extremely popular. They will also set up a publication in Australia in 2017.

FAVOURITE HOLIDAY? Nine months in Grey Lynn. Three months of being lost and found in Java.

FAVOURITE SEASON? I really appreciate having four seasons; however I could live without winter.

WHAT KIND OF DREAMS DO YOU HAVE? I dream every night. I direct my dreams like a movie with me as the star. I can make them happy, erotic, sad or mad. I change the ending and the location at will.

WHAT IS THE MEANEST GIFT YOU’VE EVER GOT? I do not regard any gift as mean.

OPTIMIST OR PESSIMIST? A pessimistic optimist, with an optimistic pessimism.

DO MPS CONSULT YOU? They don’t have to consult me. Because I can foresee their futures, I contact them.

ANY PETS? As I travel a lot, pets are a responsibility. You can always dump kids somewhere but it is not so easy with animals. I have at various times had an Afghan hound, matching white rats, a monkey, a possum and many cats; now I just have spiders – they look after themselves. The monkey was a problem because it masturbated, whenever it saw a policeman in uniform.

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING WHAT WOULD IT BE? My mind.

WHAT DRIVES YOU? I drive myself in a white Hyundai Getz 2-door sedan with manual racing floor-change and boy-racer sound.

WORST SPELL YOU’VE MADE? People are always asking me for love potions, but the last time I gave someone a potion he overdosed on it and terrified his lover. She called the police and I got the blame. Now I only cast spells for self-liberation.

FAVOURITE BOOK? ‘Alice in Wonderland’ and ‘Through the Looking Glass’ by Lewis Carroll, I own seven copies.

TV SHOW WOULD YOU NEVER MISS? Coronation Street, anything presented by Marcus Lush and the foreign films on Maori Television.

WHAT DO YOU HATE IN PEOPLE? With my powers the hatred would be so strong it would cause physical damage, or worse still rebound on me. I am really, really nice to people I don’t like - that confuses them and they can’t retaliate.

THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? Don’t get caught!

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LIFE HAS TAUGHT YOU? Don’t get caught!

FAVOURITE STYLISH PLACE? Shanghai Lil’s Lounge Bar ex-Birdcage – these days in Parnell.

CHERISHED FASHION ITEM? A necklace made from tektites and my lover’s teeth.

HOUSE CAUGHT FIRE WHAT WOULD BE THE FIRST THING YOU WOULD GRAB? My Mason Pearson hairbrush and a yellow highlighter.

HOW WOULD YOUR BEST FRIEND DESCRIBE YOU? I hope as their best friend.

STAR SIGN? Pisces the Fish: I am typical - trying to swim in two directions at once and getting myself into deep water.

BEST THING YOU’VE GOT FREE? The Ponsonby News!

FIRST JOB? Working in the Auckland photographic studio of Christopher Bede with legendary Czechoslovakian photographer Frank Hofmann.

PRIME MINISTER FOR A DAY WHAT WOULD YOU DO? I would bring the trams back to Ponsonby.

IF YOU WEREN’T A WITCH, WHAT OTHER CAREER WOULD YOU HAVE TAKEN? Because of my Piscean powers of deduction I would have made a wonderful detective.

DESCRIBE HOW YOUR FRIENDS SEE YOU? I hope as an interesting person; but I am probably of more interest to myself than anyone else.

FAVOURITE WITCH? Joan of Arc because she dressed in male attire and like me, she was persecuted even though she was innocent. (DAVID HARTNELL MNZIM) PN

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JOHN ELLIOTT NEW COP ON THE PONSONBY BLOCK - SERGEANT CRAIG CARTWRIGHT HE’S TALL, WITH SHORT SLIGHTLY GINGA HAIR. MOST OF HIS POLICING HAS been in Tokoroa, Mangakino and Tauranga, and at first sight I wouldn’t want to tangle with him on a dark night. He gives the impression he can handle the toughest of tough situations, and I’m sure he can, but he’s much more than that.

Our new Ponsonby Chief Cop, Craig Cartwright quotes Edmund Burke, 19th century philosopher and educator, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”

Craig has been just seven weeks in his new job. Before that he was 18 months as a police prosecutor here in Auckland. He doesn’t know Auckland well, but he has taken on the job with gusto and enthusiasm. He has personality to burn, and a good sense of humour. In Tokoroa everyone knew everyone, and it was easier to track crims back to their homes. Sixty percent of crimes in Central Auckland are committed by incomers, from South Auckland, West Auckland or further afield - mainly burglaries and car theft.

Another piece of wisdom this gentle giant gives us is, “the police are the public, and the public are the police.” He emphasises the importance of citizen vigilance. “Call 111,” he says if you see anything suspicious. For example someone trying to break into a car, or lurking around private property which you know is not theirs.

Craig also says Judges bend over backwards to avoid sending people to prison. Only when nothing else works do they reluctantly give a prison sentence. Before that they give, “lots and lots and lots of chances.”

Sergeant Cartwright will be responsible for four community constables, helping them focus on the “Prevention First” theme. They will be more visible than before, on the beat, getting around meeting local groups, asking for assistance wherever crime is seen or suspected.

We are reminded about the old things - don’t leave valuables in cars, don’t make it look like your house is abandoned if you are out. Leave the TV on, a light on, and pull the curtains in a bedroom to make it look as if someone is asleep. Craig emphasised that policing crime is everyone’s job, not just the police.

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photography: John Elliott

I asked Craig if our levels of incarceration were too high (second only to the USA in the Western world). His answer was instructive. “Some get a hell of a scare in prison and determine not to re-offend. Mainly, those who change their ways do so because they learn to take responsibility for their own actions. They cease to blame everyone else - the school, parents, police, the government - and realise they can choose or not choose to commit crimes. No one is forcing them to steal cars, jump in windows and commit burglaries, or take or sell drugs.

Craig Cartwright is a new broom for Ponsonby, and not a young guy to be messed with, but a very likeable bloke, the sort you could get alongside at a local bar and chat with over a beer. I think he’s a good listener too. Overly arrogant people don’t ask you what you think, but that’s what he asked me. As he gets around the traps he will prove an asset to our tight knit community.

I asked him about the rumour that Ponsonby Police Station may be closing as a cost cutting exercise. He agreed that the new Auckland Superintendant is reviewing all stations but to date no decisions have been made.

I liked the guy, and promised to catch up for a beer soon, when I can bend his ear about local issues. He may not agree with me, but I know he will listen. Welcome to Ponsonby Sergeant Cartwright. (JOHN ELLIOTT) PN

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EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE Jerry Clayton BMW launched the new 3 Series at the new McKENZIES development in Takapuna on March 21st.

Dealer Principal Steve Hilson and local man Shane Cortese took guests through a nostalgic journey of BMW models from 1975 to 2005, before launching the 2012 All–New BMW 3 series to over 300 well heeled guests.

THE ALL – NEW BMW 3 SERIES IS THE PRODUCT of over 36 years of continual development and the relentless pursuit of design perfection. The concepts that were created way back then still drive the design of every BMW 3 Series to this day.

The best engines that not only deliver exceptional power but deliver it smoothly; BMW Twin Turbo technology combined with the philosophy of BMW Efficient Dynamics ensures you will have more fun and use less fuel.

So how do you make an Ultimate Driving Machine?

Well there are some essential ingredients that are at the heart of the concept:

It offers the finest quality materials and workmanship, driver oriented seating and instrumentation in a luxury environment; engineering innovations that continually set new benchmarks for the industry.

Firstly; Rear Wheel Drive. Because the rear wheels are for driving and the front wheels are for steering, just like in a formula one car. With front wheel drive the front wheels can spin under acceleration causing loss of traction and steering control.

Rear wheel drive means that whenever you tap the accelerator you’ll get agility, grip and precision. This is the key to true sports car performance.

Then there is the holy grail of automotive design – perfect balance. A 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles translates to more precise steering, maximum traction and greater control behind the wheel.

Every BMW 3 Series Sedan also has what we call ‘a wheel in each corner’ or technically, ‘short overhangs’. A wide stance means the vehicle will be incredibly stable. Steering will be direct and responsive. Cornering will be accurate and sure-footed. Suspension effectiveness and power application are enhanced. This gives the driver a supreme and confident connection to the road.

You will always see design that unites two seemingly contradictory ideas – dynamics and elegance. Truly spirited performance combined with a superior aesthetic in both interior and exterior design.

These are the essentials, the DNA of the BMW marque. But there are a host of other fine details that are present in every BMW 3 Series Sedan and they have come close to perfection in the latest model.

Every one of these ideas stems from the BMW desire to create the most efficient and dynamic premium performance vehicles on the market.

To put it simply – the BMW 3 Series is a ‘driver’s’ car. Designed and built without compromise for those who appreciate the finest. I promise that when you get behind the wheel of the all-new BMW 3 Series you will know you are experiencing the thrill of the Ultimate Driving Machine.

One exciting new development is that the new BMW 3 Series is now available in three distinct Lines which let you add character and individualisation to how you configure your own BMW 3 Series.

There is a stunning range of choices of both interior and exterior elements: • The Modern Line emphasises sophisticated urban design.

• The Luxury Line embraces classic timeless style and…

• The Sport Line will excite those who really like to move.

The All–New BMW 3 Series is an amazing vehicle with an amazing history. It is absolutely packed with brilliant technological innovations and features which really do need to be experienced for your self. Visit Jerry Clayton BMW for a test drive to truly understand how a luxury sedan can perform like a true sports car. PN

JERRY CLAYTON BMW 445 Lake Road Takapuna, Phone 09 488 2000 www.jcbmw.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PIPPA COOM GREY LYNN 2030 NEWS

PEAK OIL, LOCAL RESILIENCE AND FINANCIAL CRISIS - HOW TO FACE THE CHALLENGES AHEAD WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE SECURED an evening with Nicole Foss as part of her three month Australasian tour that ends in Auckland. Canadian Nicole Foss is an international speaker on current issues in finance, energy, resilience, and environment.

Nicole is co-editor of www.TheAutomatic Earth.org and an energy and industry consultant and financial analyst. She has been brought to New Zealand for “Resilience by Design” the 11th Australasian Permaculture Convergence, Turangi, starting on 11 April www.apc11.co.nz Nicole Foss speaks to the heart of issues that have been key drivers in the Transition Town Movement (Grey Lynn 2030, Mt Eden Village People and Transition Pt Chev are all part of this movement). She asks hard questions about our ability to survive current challenges.

Nicole believes that resource limits (peak oil) and the collapse of global Ponzi finance are a “perfect storm” of converging phenomena that threaten to trigger wealth destruction, social discontent, and global conflict. The consequences for unprepared individuals and families could be dire.

At her presentation at the Grey Lynn RSC, Francis Street on Monday 16 April at 7pm (entry by koha), Nicole will discuss the many converging factors that are contributing to the predicament we face today, and how individuals can build a “lifeboat” to cope with the difficult years ahead. She explains how our current financial system is an unsustainable credit bubble grounded in “Ponzi dynamics,” or

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the logic of the pyramid scheme. She warns that most people are woefully unprepared to face the consequences of the devastating deflation that is now unfolding. What makes this crisis different from past financial calamities? Nicole argues that this crisis has developed in the context of the fossil fuel age, an age which will prove to be a relatively brief period of human history.

She says that we have already seen oil reach a global production peak, and other fossil fuels are not far behind; and while there is still plenty of fossil fuel in the ground, production will fall, meaning that there will be less and less energy available to power the economy at prices we can afford to pay.

Nicole believes that individuals and communities that take steps now to prepare stand a much better chance to thrive in a changing world.

One small step being taken locally is through Grey Lynn 2030’s new ‘Energy Group’ which is working on projects focused on local renewable energy solutions. Projects on the horizon include creating a home energy audit system and initiating a bulk purchase scheme for energy efficient products and home energy generation. The group welcomes new members. Contact Chris Olson chris.letter.box@gmail.com.

Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month.

More ways to get involved can be found on the Grey Lynn 2030 website.

You can also subscribe to Grey Lynn 2030’s monthly e-news of local events via greylynn2030.co.nz (PIPPA COOM) PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LOCAL NEWS: DEIRDRE ROELANTS

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THE PASSING OF LORD PONSONBY ANTIQUES THERE WAS WIDESPREAD SHOCK AND DISMAY AT THE NEWS OF DAVID Brown’s sudden death late February. None suffered more than Ross Smith, his long time friend who ran the shop with him. When David failed to turn up for the morning meeting they had every day, Ross opened the shop as usual and waited for word from him. As the day wore on he became concerned and phoned the building supervisor of the apartment block where David lived. The supervisor checked the apartment and found David lying on the ground. He had died of an aortic aneurism.

David and Ross’s friendship dated back to the sixties through a common interest in music. They attended the same clubs and parties then, when David bought a house in Devonport, Ross moved in as a flatmate. At that time David had a shop called His Lordship plus a poster company with another guy. They printed posters from film stills, the most popular being one of Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper in Easy Rider.

The film company found out what they were doing so the pirated posters had to be hastily destroyed. There were lots of similar adventures along the way, then Ross left for a protracted stay in Australia. When he returned in the seventies he started doing restoration work for David, an arrangement that lasted till David’s untimely death.

1972: LORD PONSONBY’S ANTIQUE MARKET opened at 62 Ponsonby Road.

In the interim, David had bought a mansion on Ranfurly Road with another friend that became well known for some interesting parties all through the eighties. He had started working as a house painter and when doing up a church in Howick he bought a whole collection of pews the membership wanted to get rid of, which is how he became an antique dealer. As Ross says, “How do you become an antique dealer? You buy an antique and then you sell it. It’s as simple as that.” Well David became a very talented dealer and took up a lease on the building that became Lord Ponsonby Antiques and was a fixture on Ponsonby Road for more than twenty years.

This venture began when the gentrification of the surrounding suburbs was rife. New Zealand colonial furniture was sought after and David sold it by the ton. At some point he must have bought and sold everything that was available. Eventually the supply started to dry up so he turned his attention to other things that caught his interest. He started selling Irish antiques that were popular for a while and when Ireland ran out of furniture he looked around and found some interesting Asian pieces that sold very quickly so he stocked the store with antique furniture from Tibet, Mongolia, China, Korea and Japan.

Good friend ROSS SMITH with DAVID BROWN at Lord Ponsonby Antiques.

David never wore a watch and was always asking Ross the time. A friend had bought a gold Oyster Rolex he liked so after some very thorough searching he bought one for himself. Soon there was a collection of them in the shop and Rolex dealers were referring to him. Rugs became another interest; in fact he became an authority on anything that aroused his curiosity. About five years ago it was aviation and military jackets so he joined an online jacket forum and by the time he died he was the international jacket guru. Forty sheets of tributes have arrived from vintage jacket collectors all over the world bewailing the loss of their valued member. ‘Damn...damn...what a loss’ and ‘Go quietly David – a real pleasure knowing you, albeit through the ether.’

Neighbouring antique dealer, Jillian Bashford-Evers describes David as one of Auckland’s iconic dealers. She goes on to praise him for his honesty and dedication to what he did. ‘He worked seven days a week and had exquisite taste in clothes, classic cars and watches which became a passion during his later years of dealing. He organised the antique expo and fairs and always exhibited at them as well with a unique look and consummate style.’ High praise from a fellow dealer!

Cordy’s are handling a closing down auction in the shop premises Saturday 14 April, at 11.00am. Viewing days are the preceding Thursday and Friday. It will be a sad farewell to a quirky business that contributed much to Ponsonby’s distinctive appeal.

(DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

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DAVID BROWN with SPOT, the Fox Terrier, in a model of Noddy’s car.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS  IN SEARCH OF QUALITY PERFORMANCE AND STYLE BUYING A TOP QUALITY PERFORMANCE CAR IS NOT AN EXCLUSIVELY MALE domain – in fact more than 40 per cent of Adam Bsisou’s clients at Fast 4s Prestige are women. “These women want to drive something very special, but like all of us they want the best price possible,” Adam says. “They often know exactly what type of car they would like - a fun sporty car or a family vehicle - the colour and style of the interior leather, the finish and special features.”

If they are not sure, Adam and his team at Fast 4s Prestige help all their discerning clients identify that very special sports car, family vehicle or an exclusive car with wraparound comfort. With the client’s needs defined, Adam then searches his many contacts around the world for the best price possible without compromising the quality finish.

Fast 4s Prestige also has more than 60 prestige cars at a wide range of prices on show for those preferring something more readily available. PN FAST4S PRESTIGE offer a range of luxury, prestigious cars for the discerning buyer.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

FAST 4S PRESTIGE, 729 Great North Road T: 09 361 5001 www.fast4s.co.nz

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NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP HARNESSING SCIENCE AND INNOVATION IN AUCKLAND INNOVATION IS A KEY DRIVER OF ECONOMIC SUCCESS. IN FACT I BELIEVE our quality of life in the future will be directly linked to our ability to deliver more innovative companies and build a more innovative workforce. We know that good innovation leads to new markets, better access to capital and skilled employees, and more efficient uses of resources and our infrastructure. Over the last three years we have put together a portfolio of policies to improve our economic situation that focus on more modern cutting edge infrastructure, better regulation, innovation and trade.

One area where we see the need to focus investment is in science. Many of the issues facing the world rely on science for solutions. Whether it is energy security, water or food security good science is at the heart of greater progress in these areas. By investing $60 million over four years in a series of competitive National Science Challenges we have a better chance at finding more innovative solutions to issues facing New Zealand. We must also invest in our young people and give them the tools that they need to compete in a modern world. Through our broadband package we are investing to improve the digital literacy of young New Zealanders.

Our plan for further economic development is centred on building a more competitive economy and valuing and investing in science. That is about creating the right conditions so that businesses have the confidence to invest and expand in New Zealand. That is why we have developed our Economic Development Action Plan – 120 key points that are important to our countries economic future. A significant part of this Action Plan focuses on the development of the high-tech sectors, and science and innovation. We want to provide the funding to encourage public research and strong, well-administered institutions in which it can take place. All this is about building New Zealand’s knowledge economy as one of our valuable assets both domestically, and abroad.

Auckland Central will now be the home of a massive investment in our science and innovation infrastructure. We are well placed to be that home with so many tertiary institutions and innovative companies based in Auckland Central. The challenge now is to deliver an Auckland innovation precinct that can harness the potential and bring together some of our best young entrepreneurs, tertiary institutions and companies so that New Zealand is at the forefront of innovation.

We will also be refocusing our Crown Research Institutes so that they connect better with business, with an extra $234 million set aside for new business-facing science and innovation initiatives. Another initiative is a $120 - $150 million investment in a new Advanced Technology Institute. We now invest $2.4 billion, overall, in Research and Development, and we have increased significantly our public science investment through the Ministry of Science and Innovation. However, we still have much more to do.

If we want to have a better quality of life and we want to be involved in helping solve global issues then the innovation precinct is an important project part of us achieving this. Auckland’s waterfront is of national significance and this is great opportunity to send a message to the world about what we value as a country. As we open up our waterfront, it is heartening to see both the cultural and science institutions starting to take their place. (NIKKI KAYE MP Auckland Central) PN

Earlier this year I was pleased to be appointed as Chair of the Education and Science Select Committee, this has given me a great opportunity to be part of driving our science and innovation agenda. As Chair of the Select Committee I also work closely with the Minister for Science and Innovation Steven Joyce on progressing initiatives such as last year’s announcement of the Wynyard Quarter Innovation Precinct.

www.nikkikaye.co.nz

Already a fantastic area in its own right, Wynyard Quarter will become a hub for science and innovation through the construction of the Wynyard Quarter Innovation Precinct.

A host of government agencies have been tasked with working together with the Auckland Council to develop a business plan for the hub, and we expect to see this plan in March this year.

The overall plan is to build a world-class research and development facility on Auckland’s waterfront that can house business incubators, business development agencies, and research and development institutions. This will help local entrepreneurs and businesses connect with international investors, meaning the benefits of this precinct will be felt well beyond central Auckland. When coupled with the major investments our Government has already made to support our high-tech knowledge economy, the Innovation Precinct will serve as a great focal point for Auckland’s growing knowledge economy.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT CELEBRATED AT CALUZZI photography: Robert Barry Adrenalin Publishing

THE LESS THAN STELLAR WEATHER AT THE GET IT ON! BIG GAY OUT couldn’t dampen the spirits of those attending this year and now there is another reason to celebrate – a hefty $8,000 cheque to the New Zealand AIDS Foundation (NZAF). The money was raised from the Caluzzi and URGE Beer and Dance tents with all profits from the day going to the charity.

The latest donation means that the K Road bars have contributed nearly $30,000 to the NZAF over the last four years of running the tents.

URGE owner Alan Granville said the sum raised wouldn’t have been possible without an army of volunteers. “It was incredible having so many people wanting to help out on the day – a huge thanks to all our staff and friends, everyone at Caluzzi and Eagle Bars and everyone else who battled the inclement weather to make the day a success.”

Shaun Robinson, NZAF Executive Director, says the support of Urge, Caluzzi and their volunteers is invaluable to the NZAF. “Without doubt, Urge and Caluzzi are among the biggest and most consistent supporters of the NZAF. Their commitment to the Get it On! Big Gay Out and the way they consistently organise the most popular area at the event with volunteer staff is the best example I can think of for a community partnership.”

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As well as the money raised at the Get it On! Big Gay Out, an additional $1,100 was collected later in the week at the Mr URGE New Zealand Bear contest, part of the Get It On! Bear New Zealand Week.

The $8,000 cheque will be handed over to the NZAF at Caluzzi last month. PN Well done everyone! www.urgebar.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS  MOTORSCIENCE WELCOME THEIR NEW COLLEAGUE The team at Motorscience in Grey Lynn are delighted to introduce, Glen, their new team member.

Glen Robson has a truly extensive history and experience with German engineering.

His early days as an apprentice were spent on BMWs and overseas experience at a BMW dealership.

Glen’s long association with Porsche started back in 2002 when he joined the Porsche team at Continental Cars in Newmarket.

He became Porsche workshop foreman/service advisor in 2005 and held that position for seven years until he left to join the team at Motorscience.

MOTORSCIENCE TEAM: Left to Right, Glen Leyston, Paul Reynolds, Glen Robson and Peter Booth.

In that time he developed strong relationships with customers and consolidated an impressive knowledge of the Porsche marque.

Glen brings valuable skills and knowledge to Motorscience and extends their team’s already extensive knowledge and experience of the Porsche marque.

Glen has fitted so well into the Motorscience team. His ease with customers, many of whom he knows, upholds their values of positive, personal relationships.

Glen understands the need for customers to have choices with the work that is carried out on their cars. His up to date technical knowledge coupled with their skilled technicians and their factory diagnostic tools means they can offer a service which they believe is outstanding.

Glen’s interests outside Porsche are with all things motorsport. He runs and competes in a two car rallying team who have had significant wins over the last four years. PN MOTORSCIENCE, 1 Brisbane Street T: 09 360 7951 www.motorscience.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

QUALITY LANDMARK BUILDINGS - LEASING AND RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES The company has property investments throughout Auckland providing leasing and rental opportunities in retail, offices, warehouses, showrooms, showroom/warehouse, shops, workshops, yards, car parks, car yards, studios and accommodation.

Our commercial properties are available for lease and rent Auckland wide. Areas include Auckland City, Parnell, Newmarket, Ponsonby, Newton, Herne Bay, Mt Eden, Balmoral, Dominion Road, Kingsland, City Fringe, Symonds Street, Penrose, Onehunga, Mt Wellington, Otahuhu, South Auckland, and Airport Oaks.

The website showcases a portfolio of quality landmark buildings and an ongoing commitment to investing in Auckland, working with tenants to meet their specific property leasing requirements.

With our long history of investing in high-end commercial property for many years, we believe we can offer our tenants valuable advice and recommendations based on that specialised background of knowledge and experience.

By investing in the highest standards of design and architecture; the most enduring materials, and incorporating responsible building principles, our buildings have been nominated for many awards, of which one such building is Ironbank located in Karangahape Road.

A commercial office building with retail at street level, Ironbank has been Ecologically Sustainably Designed (ESD) and is New Zealand’s first building to be awarded a ‘5 Green-Star Office Built’ rating from the New Zealand Green Building Council.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

SEARCHING AND BROWSING FOR TENANCIES MADE EASY The forlease.co.nz site is set up to allow both agents and businesses seeking tenancies to easily search and browse available options. The site offers a number of features designed to give the right information in the most efficient way.

THESE FEATURES INCLUDE: • • • • • • • •

Quick search by property type/location Quick search by floor area Browse by building Full details of the property including Image gallery Video walk through for selected buildings Full tenancy details Ability to PDF the property summary FOR AGENTS WE OFFER A NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL FEATURES TO INCLUDE:

• Ability to set up notification preferences. Which allows agents to be notified when a new property is listed • Ability to PDF and email a property summary to our client.

More recently we’ve developed some mobile apps for the iPhone and Android operating system that allows direct access to the available properties on the go.

These apps work on both phones and tablets. The apps work in real-time and also have “geo-location” features for example “show me properties close to me”. www.forlease.co.nz For any enquiries please contact T: 09 522 0039

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE DEAR READERS Please keep sending us your holiday snaps reading your favourite magazine, we love getting them! Photos need to be in high resolution (300dpi), so please email them to info@ponsonbynews.co.nz without reducing the size.

3 1-2. ALISTAIR YOUNG sent us several shots of ISAAC and CAITLIN MOFFATYOUNG, who travelled around Upolu, in SAMOA during the school holidays. The Malua turtle pond was awesome, he told us.

3. RACHAEL HARRISON lived in Tutanekai Street, Grey Lynn and explained, “we get your fabulous mag delivered and I’m currently on my OE in London for two years, and stopped off in Koh Chang, THAILAND on the way over. I LOVE your mag, and it would be greatly appreciated if you were able to include my photo. I’ve checked and have seen that to date, no one has taken one with an elephant next to them in the water!”

4. In this shot we see JEFF BUSBRIDGE, DANIEL BOULTON, DAVE CHISHOLM and MARTY MINEHAN at the top of Blackcomb ski field in Whistler, BC, CANADA. Dan and Dave had just tied the knot back in NZ, they explained.

5. SARAH RIVE from French Country Collection in Grey Lynn sent us this shot of JEAN -MARC and ESTELLE OUGIER, taken in the gardens of Versailles, FRANCE.

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6-7. ROSS THORBY sent us several shots from the Queen Elizabeth world cruise 2012. The first is Mr T himself in SAMOA leaning against a palm tree with a copy of Ponsonby News; the second is of our newest readers, Tony and Golly, taken while while the ship was in SYDNEY. PN

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TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY! 

AUCKLAND LEAPS 21 PER CENT IN DOMESTIC OVERNIGHT TRIPS IN 2011 Kiwis visited Auckland in droves in 2011 with the city enjoying a 21 per cent increase in annual overnight trips – almost double the national increase of 11.3 per cent.

According to the latest results from the Domestic Tourism Survey, Auckland secured over two million overnight trips in 2011 – an increase of more than 350,000 trips compared to 2010.

New Zealand’s largest city saw holiday trips increase 27 per cent on last year and business trips jump 29 per cent.

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd (ATEED) Manager Tourism Jason Hill says this surge in visitation highlights the importance of domestic tourism.

“Domestic travel underpins the New Zealand tourism industry and to see healthy growth in the sector is great, especially during this tough economic climate,” says Mr Hill.

“Rugby World Cup was an obvious driver for domestic visitation last year, but it’s heartening to see business travel also making such an impact,” he adds.

The increase in domestic tourism aligns with ATEED’s new ten year Auckland Visitor Plan, which aims to significantly grow domestic tourism receipts over the next decade.

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The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Tourism is big business in Auckland, generating in excess of $3 billion of GDP per annum and supporting more than 50,000 full time jobs. PN

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 TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

A ROMANTIC JOURNEY

by Kim Houston, Director, World Journeys I have never needed a holiday more immediately than after the fever -pitch frenzy of my wedding was over. The months of planning take their toll, so the only sensible thing to do is head for a heavenly beach resort and surrender yourself to total relaxation.

My husband and I recently visited Vietnam and stayed in some luxurious Six Senses Resorts. I’ve been singing their praises to honeymooners and hopeless romantics ever since! Vietnam is actually a great place to honeymoon – the romance of fading French colonial architecture, stunning beachside resorts, amazing shopping, friendly locals and delicious cuisine – a superb blend for those who want to do a little more than lie on a beach.

Nha Trang is the place to go for beaches. The Evason Ana Mandara – Nha Trang is the only resort located right on Nha Trang Beach, and is the ideal place for pampering and relaxing after a hectic wedding. The décor and design takes its cue from a Vietnamese village, and it’s set amongst tropical gardens, with beautiful pool areas, superb restaurants and a magnificent Six Senses Spa. You can choose from a Garden Villa, a Seaview Villa, or the ultimate Ana Mandara Suite, and you’ll enjoy impeccable service no matter which you’re in.

For the perfect romantic escape, the ‘Six Senses Ninh Vanh Bay’ is an easy 20 minute boat ride away and is Vietnam’s premier six star resort. Each villa has its own private pool, and some have been built amongst the rock boulders right at the water’s edge.

You have complete privacy in your spacious villa, and I was delighted to find little extras such as our own personal wine cellar! You can have a Chef prepare meals on your deck or join other guests at the restaurant.

Top of my ‘to do’ list is the luxurious ‘Six Senses Hideaway Con Dao’, located in a beautiful island south-east of Vietnam. On a white sandy beach surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes… I can definitely see myself there!

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I’d also highly recommend you venture outside of your resort while in Vietnam, for a couple of days in Hanoi, and a couple more in my favourite – Hoi An, at the very least.

Hanoi’s ‘Old Quarter’ is a maze of aptly named streets translating as ‘shoe street’, ‘toy street’, ‘art street’ etc. We stayed at the gorgeous Sofitel Metropole, whose French style sophistication dates back to 1901. Take a Vietnamese cooking class, visit the fish markets, and get an entire wardrobe of clothes tailor-made for a fraction of what it would cost at home!

I’d also highly recommend Bali – the picture perfect sandy beaches, peaceful Buddhist culture and beautiful mountain setting of Ubud are truly delightful.

For a more off-the-beaten-track alternative, I recently organized an all-in-one wedding /honeymoon experience in Sri Lanka. A gorgeous and exotic location, perfect for those wishing to escape ‘white wedding’ expectations.

Vietnam, Bali, Sri Lanka… think outside the square and unleash the romance within! PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

CELEBRATE LOVE AND COMMITMENT

WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS 

WHAT MAKES A MODERN WEDDING? FOR A DESIGN-CONSCIOUS COUPLE, WEDDING AESTHETICS ARE INCREDIBLY important – from the table settings right through to the flowers, the dress and the suits.

Then, there are the gifts. Long gone are the days where a couple is in need of a set of saucepans or a toaster. Most couples have lived together before they marry, so the role of a gift registry has changed immensely.

At Simon James Concept Store there is a selection of beautiful, classic design pieces available – the sort of home-wares, candles and furniture that add that certain ‘something’ to a newlywed’s household.

Of course, Simon James also offers more traditional registry gifts such as cutlery sets and glassware, as well as luxury pieces for the home like beautiful glass table lamps, right through to brass dishes and candleholders. The services offered by Simon James Concept Store span gift selection assistance through to an online gift registry for overseas and out of town friends. All parcels are beautifully wrapped and handdelivered too.

APRIL IS THE MONTH OF LOVE AND ROMANCE IN PONSONBY NEWS... Don’t be shy, if you have a question to ask your better half, it’s never been a better time to make some longterm plans... and commitments.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

The Simon James Concept Store, located in Takapuna’s The Department Store, is also the new home to an exceptional florist, Annie Oxborough. Annie creates gorgeous, natural blooms perfect for a modern wedding – or just for a spontaneous gift. PN Visit SIMON JAMES CONCEPT STORE at THE DEPARTMENT STORE, 10 Northcroft Street T: 09 489 6955, or see www.store.simonjamesdesign.com to set up your own gift registry.

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JAY PLATT

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Aluminium Cake stand with Glass dome (cupcakes sold separately @ www.icingonthecake.co.nz) $179.90 Chambers Home & Living; Large Fornasetti candle ‘Viso a Strisce’ $799 @ World Beauty www.worldbrand.co.nz; Ascaso coffee machine ‘Dream’ in black $1199 @ Askew www.askew.co.nz; Skull & Crossbone bowl $149, Skull & Crossbone Jug $140 by Morgan Haine @ Tessuti www.tessuti.co.nz; Bamboo tray $239 @ Republic www.republichome.com; Campana Brothers resin ‘Flora’ vase with leather detail $1450 @ Design55 www.design55.co.nz; Alarm Dock for iPhone by Jonas Darmon (iPhone sold separately) $84 @ Simon James Design www.store.simonjamesdesign.com; Porcelain serving platter ‘Elizabeth’ by Driade $380 @ Indice www.indice.co.nz

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Vintage 1950s Fornasetti malachite tablee with Tri-Pod base $4800 @ Design55 www.design www.design55.co.nz; Salad servers by Jasper Morrison for Alessi $62pair @ Simon James Design www.store.simonjamesdesign.com; ‘Vera Lace & Bramble’ letter sheets & envelope sets by Vera Wang $25 each @ Red Letter Day www.redletterday.co.nz; ‘Paley’ lamp from Meluka $545 @ Apartmento www.apartmento.co.nz; ‘Krenit’ Bowl Lime Green $347 @ Design Denmark www.designdenmark.co.nz; Utopia ‘Circus’ Man/Woman vase $475, Utopia man/woman Bowl $259 by Adler(NY)Ceramics @ Askew www.askew.co.nz; Orange Dualit 4 slice toaster $699 @ Millys Kitchen www.millyskitchen.co.nz STYLING: Jay Platt; PHOTOGRAPHY: Danilo Santana David, Fisher Santana PN

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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CELEBRATE LOVE AND COMMITMENT

 WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS

MAKE YOUR WEDDING GIFT AN EL FRAMO GIFT WEDDINGS CAN BE STRESSFUL ON many levels. Who should be invited, who pays for what (oh what a thorny one that is!), what to do for gifts, what to wear, who should take the photos, what is the right venue, when should it be and when can it be depending on availability of the venue?

El Framo can help on the gift front. They take gift lists for framing of the photos or other framing services, offer gift vouchers as wedding presents, or any Mirror hand finished in Antique Brown. other gift for that matter and best of all they make stunning, unique mirrors which are great gifts for couples who might be distracted by more pressing household needs.

El Framo owner Michael Turner explains that mirrors can be created to any size, with or without the traditional bevelled glass, and using any of the available commercial frames used for any picture framing work.

Michael tells us that El Framo has a unique range of classic frames not available elsewhere, and are all hand finished by their craftsmen in any colour, to contain both mirrors and for general framing requirements. These solid wood frames are milled from sustainable plantations, mostly within New Zealand. El Framo has stocks of bevelled mirror glass in standard sizes which sell for the cost of standard non-bevelled mirrors.

In regards to wedding photography, they know some specialists who excel in this field.

Just ask for recommendations. PN EL FRAMO, 16 Pollen Street T: 09 378 6774 www.elframo.co.nz

HOPETOUN ALPHA – ROMANTIC AMBIENCE FOR OCCASIONS OF THE HEART HOPETOUN ALPHA IS CENTRAL AUCKLAND’S BEST KEPT SPECIAL SECRET. This elegant building with a rich history dating back to 1875 was originally the home of Beresford Street Congregational Independents.

Hopetoun Alpha’s elegant Greek Doric architecture was the design of the then well known architect, Philip Herepath. Captain William C Daldy was also involved in the project and was a major contributor in financing the construction.

In 1994 Hopetoun Alpha was bought by the late Ashton Wylie. With its Greek Doric architecture, it was beautifully restored and given a new name – Hopetoun literally translated means “town of hope” and alpha “new beginnings.”

Today it continues to be perfectly suited to accommodate a wide range of functions.

The venue has a wonderful and romantic ambience for occasions of the heart, wedding ceremonies, civil unions, receptions and anniversaries.

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Hopetoun Alpha has no exclusive contracts and is one of the few venues in Auckland to offer a self catering option. Staff, are always delighted to recommend companies offering associated event services ranging from catering, sound and lighting, through to equipment hire.

Organise your own event, or use one of the recommended caterers, to do all the work for you. The choice is yours; let your next event be a part of the history at Hopetoun Alpha.

Conveniently located uptown from Auckland central and bordering on Ponsonby, it seats up to 180 people for a banquet style event or 320 people for cocktail parties.

Complimentary parking is available next to the venue. PN For more information go to www.hopetounalpha.co.nz or contact the office on T: 09 373 3112.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

CELEBRATE LOVE AND COMMITMENT

WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS  GIFT VOUCHERS - A POPULAR WEDDING GIFT “An on2canvas gift voucher makes a great wedding present and they have proved very popular with our customers”, says owner Lindy Roberts.

“A simple and easy option for the gift buyer and a great present for the happy couple as they ultimately get to choose their own gift. As they may be moving into a new home or, if they already live together, a piece of art created by the two of them creates something meaningful to hang on their walls.

“They can choose an image (or a selection) from their wedding day, honeymoon, or something that is symbolic of their time together. We supply a printed canvas swatch (which can have an image chosen by you) adhered to a gift card to give the suggestion of what is to come. So with their ideas/images and our expertise we can create a piece of unique digital art. What better gift could you give. And our gift vouchers never expire.” PN Just call Lindy to arrange delivery of a gift voucher for a wedding gift, or for any occasion.

ON2CANVAS, 12 Albany Road T: 09 375 8065 www.on2canvas.co.nz

“A day to remember for ever… memories to cherish, photos to admire. Invest today to look your best on your wedding day... It’s worth it.”

– KERI ROPATI, PERSONAL TRAINER ‘WEIGHT LOSS SPECIALIST’

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NINA & CO - FOR BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRATIONAL WEDDING FLOWERS Flowers are always guaranteed to make any romantic occasion special. They create the perfect finishing touch - a little magic and Ponsonby locals don’t need to go far to find creative experts who think outside the square and will make any wedding or civil union a day to remember. We asked the team at Nina & Co to tell us how they can assist.

What’s coming into season for autumn weddings? Divine fragrant freesias, hyacinths, tulips, mossy branches woven with berries... and of course roses.

What are brides choosing? Huge bloomed dahlias in water colours have been very popular this summer, peonies at the end of October and sweetpea, Audrey Hepburn style classic cream vendella rose bouquets and antique hydrangea. Also we are thinking Marilyn Monroe inspired bouquets with full voluptuous peach and blush tone roses.

How much notice required? Two weeks is good but we have done weddings at a moments notice! Elopements included.

Are you able to work with the colour and design of a dress? Yes, we like to see the dress and a fabric swatch in order to match the ribbon. The length and design helps determine bouquet size and style. We love to add personal touches; a bride’s favourite colour, scent or flower. We often bury tuberose, gardenia, stephanotis into a bride’s bouquet just for the heady fragrance.

Civil Unions? Yes, we have done a number of Civil Unions.

What sort of budget is required? We tailor our weddings to fit all budgets. PN NINA & CO, 19 Williamson Avenue T: 09 376 5812 www.ninaforflowers.co.nz

HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT WEDDING RING There is no excuse for not being able to find the perfect wedding ring (or engagement ring) when you can have one custom made. Ten top tips for getting it right.

• Plan six months ahead.

Don’t rush or compromise on something on sale or of low quality that you’ll be disappointed with later.

• Do your research and make a short list of styles you like.

Modern or traditional. In platinum, white gold, yellow gold or Mokume Gane.

• Custom made jewellery is better value for money, handmade specifically to your design and budget.

You can also include gold or diamonds from sentimental family heirloom jewellery.

• Consider your daily activities – will this style catch on anything?

• Matching wedding rings? Engraved with a name, message or wedding date?

• Set a realistic budget once you have researched your options.

• Does the ring reflect your style and personality?

• Will the design be comfortable and easy to maintain?

• Do the wedding and engagement ring fit perfectly together? If not, it may be uncomfortable to wear and cause long term damage to the rings.

• Don’t forget to have your jewellery professionally cleaned and polished before the big day - complimentary of course with Auckland Ring Company.

All jewellery is designed and hand made in their studio by goldsmiths Jared, Anna and André. Call in for an obligation free design consultation or complimentary jewellery clean and polish for Ponsonby News readers. PN

photography: Michael McClintock

AUCKLAND RING COMPANY, 275 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0275 www.aucklandringcompany.co.nz

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 WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS

THE PERFECT ANSWER TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY AT BUCKLANDS BEACH YACHT Club the team recognise that a couple’s wedding day is the most important day of their life; as such the Yacht Club will pull-out all of the stops to make sure that the day is as truly wonderful and stress free as possible.

Offering superb food from the inhouse caterers, flexible function rooms, easy parking, convenient public transport, easy access, and the benefit of staff with a ‘can do’ attitude Bucklands Beach Yacht Club is a pivotal part of the journey of being together.

With a variety of inclusive set packages and the total flexibility to create something totally unique Bucklands Beach Yacht Club offers the opportunity of two function rooms to choose from; both offer beautiful views of the Yacht Club Marina, the Tamaki Estuary, and Rangitoto Island.

Whether you choose your wedding day celebrations as a formal sit down table service function or a casual barbeque on the north facing deck, you will have comfort in knowing that the attentive staff at the Club will make your wedding day perfect!

Remembering your day through photographs is made extra special by the wonderful backdrop Bucklands Beach Yacht Club offers; but if the tranquility of the sea is not quite your thing then take advantage of the beautiful views offered by the very nearby Musick Point, the surrounding beaches, and parks.

Each and every way you look at it, Bucklands Beach Yacht Club offers the perfect and simple answer to your special day! PN BUCKLANDS BEACH YACHT CLUB, Ara Tai, Half Moon Bay T: 09 534 3046 www.bbyc.org.nz

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DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND EQUALS QUALITY, SERVICE AND AUTHENTICITY ‘DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND’ ARE ENGAGEMENT RING AND WEDDING Band Specialists. Their main focus is customer service and making your experience of purchasing an engagement ring or wedding band thoroughly informative and enjoyable.

Based on Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, the directors of the Company are a brother and sister team, dedicated to quality and service. The company has been created with a strong vision to educate people on quality diamonds and the various aspects to consider when purchasing an engagement ring or wedding band.

All of their rings are made in New Zealand and are of the highest quality. All diamonds are purchased through the Kimberley Process and are conflict free.

Each diamond comes with a certificate of authentication and every ring comes with an independent valuation.

When choosing your wedding bands, you can either choose from their extensive collection or have a custom made ring designed to match your engagement ring perfectly.

Purchasing an engagement ring or wedding band is an extremely important event in your life and the team at Diamonds On Richmond welcome you to make an appointment time that is convenient, where you can view their collection in a friendly, relaxed, private atmosphere. PN For more information and to view their collection visit www.diamondsonrichmond.co.nz DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND T: 09 376 9045 enquiries@diamondsonrichmond.co.nz

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 WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS

POCO CUFFLINKS, RINGS AND LAPEL PINS ARE MANUFACTURED IN New Zealand from popular brands of vintage typewriters such as Imperial, Underwood, Mercedes, Smith and Remington. The original keys from these machines are set in sterling silver and are all hand crafted. The supply of the typewriters is limited today and therefore combinations of initials are rare as are the fractions, tab, shift and £ signs which are now keys of the past in New Zealand.

The typewriter was an engineering feat. We take for granted that the paper sits in a stationary tray, so to invent a machine with a moving carriage seems novel today. Let alone the ‘ting’ on a little bell to advise the end of a line approaching.

These cufflinks, rings and lapel pins are very popular as wedding, birthday, anniversary and Christmas presents; or for the person who has everything. They are made to order and it is fun to arrange the letters and numbers according to the recipient. i.e. D+R for a Doctor, Q+C for a lawyer, 3+0 for a thirtieth birthday or Backspace + Lock, to be quirky!

As these typewriters become rarer, no two are the same, so the fonts and colours vary.

There is a choice of black or white keys. Ordering is essential and delivery could take seven to 14 days. To discuss options and orders call Steve Hofmann who will be happy to talk to you on M: 021 487 878. PN

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CELEBRATE LOVE AND COMMITMENT

WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS  CRANE BROTHERS: ADVICE WHEN BUYING A WEDDING SUIT Ponsonby News asked Murray Crane and his team to share their expert recommendations: what suit to choose for that very special day?

Go for a classic look. Photos of the wedding will be adorning people’s walls for years, so wear something you can look back on and feel proud of 10 or 20 years down the track. Elegance and simplicity do not mean boring – classic, tailored style is timeless for a reason.

Consider how you would like to use the suit in the future. A wedding is an excellent opportunity to invest in something that can comfortably find a place in your regular wardrobe. If you tend not to wear suits as part of your day-to-day routine, keep your wedding suit simple. You will be expected to wear a suit to future events such as job interviews, weddings, funerals and dinners, and a plain, dark, well-fitted suit will work for all of these.

If you are having a formal wedding and you also wear suits for work, it is a good opportunity to invest in a tuxedo; something distinctly different from your usual attire that can still see regular use at future black tie events.

Avoid heavily patterned cloths. Pinstriped cloths in particular tend to be closely associated with a work-oriented suit. A plain cloth is more appropriate for a ceremonial occasion. If you want to add interest, consider a fine pattern, such as a nailhead or birdseye. Complement the suit with a good shoe; in most cases an Oxford or Derby shoe will be an excellent choice, though a brogue could be a consideration. Ensure that they are well maintained; ideally brand new. PN CRANE BROTHERS, 2-4 High Street, Auckland City T: 09 377-5333 www.crane-brothers.com

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ď ˇ WEDDINGS AND CIVIL UNIONS

THE STABLES RESTAURANT MATAKANA – WEDDING VENUE PERFECTION Amongst 50 acres of farmland with backdrops of natural beauty, rolling hills and vineyards, sits a premium wedding destination.

The Stables Restaurant Matakana is a relative newcomer to the wedding game but has a lot to offer couples looking for an interesting, versatile venue with a point of difference. It is located on the main road to Leigh and Omaha just three minutes from Matakana Village and 50 minutes from Auckland.

The Stables Restaurant Matakana offers indoor and outdoor dining with the capacity to host small intimate weddings or larger receptions, ceremonies can be held within the property with backdrops ranging from rustic sheds, ponds and weeping willows.

The Historic St Andrews Church is situated on site; the perfect setting for a ceremony.

Constructed in 1885, of Kauri, the church still boasts its original kauri pews.

The restaurant features contemporary fittings, and exposed macrocarpa beams. The dining room opens up to a covered courtyard and manicured lawn, which is perfect for a summer wedding. The two grand open fireplaces and under floor heating ensures that The Stables is a perfect winter venue. The combination of exceptional food and wine, top quality chefs, experienced bar and floor staff, as well as a dedicated wedding coordinator, ensures that weddings at The Stables consistently run impeccably.

Matakana is becoming a popular choice as a wedding destination because of its proximity to a variety of beaches, vineyards, boutique accommodation and excellent wedding vendors. PN To find out more contact Wedding Coordinator Melissa Rewi at THE STABLES RESTAURANT MATAKANA, T: 09 422 7360 mel@stablesmatakana.co.nz www.stablesmatakana.co.nz

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

WONDERFUL WEDDING GIFTS There are many great wines and spirits that make wonderful wedding gifts. We are often asked for suggestions, so here are a few of my top tips.

Vintage champagne makes an excellent wedding gift. Most of the vintage champagne available at the moment is from the 2002 vintage and is rated very well. Vintage champagnes from 2002 will age gracefully over the next 10-20 (or more) years and are a nice thing to bring out and enjoy at anniversaries.

A cellar starter pack makes a great wedding gift, a bottle of Grand Cru Pinot Gris, Vintage champagne, Bordeaux, Rhone, a Vouvray and a Burgundy. All will mature at different times and provide an excellent base to start collecting.

Riedel glassware is a lovely gift for any occasion; decanters make a nice wedding gift, from the classic styles to the innovative new decanters – including the red and black dragon, perfect for those getting married in the year of the dragon.

And for those reading this that are getting married and like the sounds of some or all of the above, why not set up a wedding register at Glengarry. (LIZ WHEADON) PN www.e-liz.co.nz www.glengarry.co.nz

2009 in Bordeaux is widely considered one of the greatest vintages of our lifetime.

The top wines from his vintage are starting to arrive on shelves around the world and in New Zealand. One of the first ‘serious’ wines to arrive is the second wine of chateau Pichon Baron Longueville, Tourelles de Longueville. This wine ages well and from this vintage will be superb drinking in 10 years and last much longer than that. It comes in a six bottle wooden case.

For something a little closer to home, it is hard to go past Waiheke’s Stonyridge Larose.

Larose is an iconic New Zealand red wine; it stands up to the top wines of the world and has a proven ability to age. Last year we opened the 1996 at one of our old bottle dinners and wished we had left it in the cellar, whilst an amazing bottle that night it was still demanding time in the cellar.

Armagnac is an excellent gift, something a little different and a spirit that seems to have quite a broad appeal. We import a range of Armagnac from Tariquet and also Santa Christeau. We have small stocks of vintage Armagnac in store, but have access to vintage Armagnac from an incredible number of years – whether it’s the bride’s birth year, or the year they met?

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ANTIQUES MAKE A WONDERFUL WEDDING GIFT Bashford Antiques has just landed a 40 foot container and offers a huge array of exquisite antiques and unique decorative items.

Young couples today are very sophisticated and often do not need all the household things we used to get on our wedding day as they are usually already home owners and hence they are looking for that extra special gift.

Discerning young couples often plan ahead and choose an heirloom piece of furniture from Bashford Antiques, which guests can contribute to prior to the wedding with an amount of their choice by calling into the shop (that way getting to view the chosen item) or for convenience guests can phone through an amount on their credit card and simply be posted a receipt.

The lucky couple then can add to this or they may even have an additional amount over to purchase another piece from the shop. Popular choices are antique dining tables, chests of drawers, armoires, cupboards, and large storage pots or not to mention the fabulous range of industrial furniture in the new shipment in store now.

There is an amazing dining table that has been constructed from an old ships window that is over 2 metres long, metal studded marine sideboards, plasma cabinets, glazed metal cabinets, metal shelves, bar stools and dining chairs. There is a wonderful vintage glazed cabinet with sliding doors measuring 2.5 metres – a fabulous option for a large galley kitchen.

Decorative items include everything from a large painted sculpture of a Polo horse to wonderful ancient temple fragments on stands, and last but not least, a fabulous range of precious jewellery which can be viewed on the web site. PN BASHFORD ANTIQUES, 24 Williamson Avenue T: 09 361 5142 www.bashford.co.nz

THE WEDDING EVENT OF THE YEAR ON SUNDAY 6 MAY, NEW ZEALAND’S LARGEST COLLECTION OF WEDDING SPECIALISTS WILL GET TOGETHER for the annual Bride & Groom Show, with marquees, music and cars set in the beautiful gardens of Auckland’s Ellerslie Racecourse. “As New Zealand’s biggest wedding show, it’s a one-stop destination with everything you need to successfully plan your wedding,” says Lesley Walker, Editor-in-Chief of Bride & Groom magazine. “The atmosphere is unique. It’s a joyous occasion, it’s like a party and having everything in one place makes it so much easier.”

Whether couples are just engaged or seeking their perfect finishing touch, the show has inspiration on every aspect of wedding and honeymoon planning. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste cakes and bubbly, meet designers, view portfolios, see bouquets and table settings, and hear live music. “The Bride & Groom Show brings the pages of Bride & Groom magazine to life and is the perfect place to see the hottest wedding trends this year,” says Mrs Walker.

Fabulous fashion shows, which run three times during the day, are one of the highlights. Plus there are the numerous discounts, giveaways, door prizes, special offers, goodie bags and major prizes which include a luxury Vomo Island honeymoon worth over $11,500 and Win your Dream Wedding worth over $30,000! PN Visit www.brideandgroom.co.nz for more information. www.facebook.com/brideandgroomshow

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY SOMETHING OLD TURNED INTO SOMETHING NEW SUE FLEISCHL WAS ELEVEN WHEN SHE FIRST TOLD her father she wanted to be a Chef and when she was fifteen, he wrote letters to big hotels around Europe asking them to employ his daughter. At just seventeen, Sue flew to London to work at the Savoy Hotel, the only hotel that had replied to his letters. She returned to New Zealand at the end of two years and gained more experience in various restaurants before relocating to Bangkok where she was introduced to Asian food.

At the end of the 80s, Sue and her family moved to Melbourne where she discovered catering. It was something she could do during the day with a young child in day care and ‘Sue-Chef Catering’ quickly became popular. After returning to Auckland in the mid 90s and working with Ray McVinnie and Julie Le Clerc at their Kingsland cafe, Crucial Traders, Sue knew catering was what she wanted to do. She bought a stainless steel bench, put it in her living room and called herself The Great Catering Co. There was nothing like it in Auckland at the time, word of mouth quickly spread her reputation and she couldn’t keep up with demand. “I moved into an old bakery in Sandringham and when the America’s cup came to Auckland we took over the butcher shop next door. By 2003 when the next America’s cup was here I had a massive contract looking after several super yachts and needed a new building so in three weeks we built what we have now.”

“Around 2005 I was asked by a business friend if I saw myself as a businesswoman or a Chef. When I answered a Chef they replied “you’ll never be a successful businesswoman.” I lost a lot of sleep thinking about that and changed my direction, slowly moving myself out of the kitchen and allowing my business to grow. I have fantastic staff, we’re like a big family and many of them have been with me for years. They all call me Ma and if someone isn’t working to our standards, they will let me know.”

One of Sue’s first weddings was for a high profile Auckland couple and she says she had no idea of how powerfully it would affect her business. “One good wedding can transform your business. By doing a good job it is the catalyst to other functions – christenings, birthdays, engagements – you become part of that family and their friend’s families too.

“I love weddings, they are one of the things that gives me the most joy about catering. When I meet the brides, many have a folder with their ideas and pictures with what they want it to look like and they’re giving us the job of transforming their ideas into their day.”

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There is so much that goes into an event, the logistics and organisation are planned weeks in advance. “We ask questions like ‘can we get our equipment to the venue; is there a steep drive; have they got running water; what happens if it’s a rainy day and will we need a generator’? It’s a visual job, we see what it looks like, living and reliving the event over and over again in our minds before it even happens and this is part of what makes us stand out. We make it as personal as possible and I try to be at all the events, I check the food and scan the waiters, I have combs, razors and hair ties ready and we launder and iron all the uniforms so everyone looks the same. Attention to detail is important because we’re making someone’s day special. Our tagline is ‘serving amazing anywhere’. This is a good catchphrase to set our targets by.”

Sue uses a number of facilities including the beautiful Brick Bay vineyard which has a strong New Zealand focus using products that are locally sourced. Abbeville Estate is her newest project, a 150 year old country estate surrounded by farmlands that has been newly renovated in Manakau. The property is owned

by Auckland Airport and with Sue’s help it has been transformed into a spectacular venue where weddings, concerts and wine and food festivals can be held. There is a barn that is licensed for 380 people, the beautiful homestead, a church and gorgeous grounds that can take marquees for up to 400 people.

When Sue was first shown the property, it was run down and overgrown, the church was badly in need of renovation and they had to redo all the plumbing and drainage and install a new power plant. “I saw what it could be and it has been transformed into something beautiful. I feel like I’m going home every time I go out there, the builders and contractors have done a superb job, and I don’t want to leave because it makes everyone feel so good when they’re there.

The focus is on opposites ‘old and new, business and pleasure, him and her’.

There is a lot of greenery and beautiful old trees; we’ve planted gardens where flowers will bloom all year round; fruit trees and vegetables we can use on our menus and there’s a pigeon coop where Mr Hoo the very fat pigeon lives. It is a beautiful venue and everyone who has seen it has fallen in love with it.”

Abbeville Estate adds an exciting new dimension to the facilities Great Catering Co. can offer. And as her business continues to grow, expand and develop with a focus towards healthier eating, Sue Fleischl is taking catering to a whole new level. (REBECCA JONES) PN GREAT CATERING CO., 12 Putiki Street T: 09 376 1424 www.greatcatering.co.nz

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY JERVOIS STEAK HOUSE AND SALOON CELEBRATES FIVE GREAT YEARS There are steak houses, then there are steak houses and then there’s Jervois Steak House and Saloon.

JSH or simply Jervois, as it is affectionately known by its legion of ardent fans, was born in 2007 when restaurateur Richard Sigley and Chef Simon Gault hatched a plan to launch New Zealand’s first authentic Steak House. They travelled extensively throughout the United States, researching, sampling and truly understanding what made a great steak house great. It was a gruelling trip, but clearly worth the hard work and long nights, as five years on Jervois Steak house still reigns supreme as New Zealand’s pre-eminent restaurant designed to unashamedly showcase meat.

The menu is a veritable who’s who of meats in all forms, sourced from the very best beef and lamb producers. The quality beef is carefully selected from the highest pedigree and defined by breed and feed. So you will find dishes like the Signature Prime Rib, selected from the finest 150-day grain fed Black Angus that has been dry aged then patiently roasted in their special oven. Or the Jervois cut eye fillet on the bone, farmed on the West Coast, which gives this animal an unmatched tenderness and flavour that can only come from cattle fed on New Zealand’s magnificent grasslands.

For the more adventurous carnivore, the steak tatare is a classic, executed to perfection, as is the Caesar salad with it’s Lolin anchovy and 55 minute egg. The one accompaniment that in our view is mandatory, is Simon Gault’s legendary onion rings that can adorn any of the menu choices. Whichever cut or breed you choose, you are then faced with deciding, which of the thirteen amazing sauces will accompany your meal. Whilst Simon Gault makes his suggestion, the choices are deliciously, yours to make.

True to the great steak houses of the United States, Jervois Steak House is not solely about red meat. World famous Red King Crab, Oysters, Calamari, Prawn Tacos, Heirloom Tomatoes and daily chicken and fish specials, all take their place on the menu. It’s not just the menu that delivers the style and authenticity.

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Exposed, distressed timber and brick leave you cocooned in an earthy warmth, that screams hearty food and rewarding big flavours.

The spacious, but intimate bar, is the perfect space for that pre-dinner aperitif or cocktail and of course an after dinner cognac, port or coffee. On a sunny afternoon you can step out onto the Jervois Road street frontage and sip an icy beer, stationed at a well positioned leaner and discuss the important matters of the day. Complemented by attentive and highly knowledgeable staff and a wine list that pairs a wide range of quality varietals and blends with the extensive menu, you will be hard pressed to find a more complete dining experience.

The Jervois Steak House is testament to both the quality and excellence that Simon Gault demands of the ingredients and the sheer expertise that is exhibited both front of house and in the kitchen.

Congratulations to a sterling five years and here’s to another five at least. PN THE JERVOIS STEAK HOUSE AND SALOON, 70-72 Jervois Road T: 09 376 2049 www.jervoissteakhouse.co.nz

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PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY? TO DRY FOR Martinborough’s Dry River wines Neil McCallum started Dry River in 1979. Dry River shares the Craighall vineyard with Ata Rangi and also sources fruit from local contract growers. Plus they have acquired the Arapoff (now Lovat) vineyard in Martinborough.

Dry River would easily be in the top three premium New Zealand producers of Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Their loyal mail list members snap up nearly all the output in advance. A little is exported and anything spare generally goes within a few weeks of release. There is even a waiting list to get on the mailing list – basically you can be added if the member doesn’t order any wine for three consecutive years, or they die. It could be a motive for homicide. Coming soon to your screens: WCSI – Wine Crime Scene Investigation.

Anyway, Neil McCallum sold Dry River to El Molino Wines of California and has largely handed over the reins to young winemaker Katy Hammond, but he stays on as chief winemaker.

The new owners have enabled expansion and re-equipment to meet Dry River’s requirements for a growing brand with an outstanding international reputation.

The expanding acreage and corresponding production of about 3,000 cases per annum is now cared for by a staff of eight, with Katy Hammond looking after the day to day winery functions with the help of Wilco Lam who is Assistant Winemaker. Robert Wills is the Viticulturist and he has with him Rob Smith (Machinery Manager) and a loyal army of winery and admin folk.

Anyway, I was recently invited to a tasting of older vintages. Here’s the line-up: DRY RIVER CRAIGHALL RIESLING 2006 $54.00 A medium sweet style, with some lovely crisp acid balance. Flavours of lime, pink grapefruit and honey, with some steely minerality.

DRY RIVER GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2008 $70.00 Luscious, enchanting and spicy with Turkish Delight, crisp citrus and tropical fruit.

DRY RIVER CHARDONNAY 2009 $70.00 Toasty and rounded, this is great Chardonnay made from the Mendoza Chardonnay clone (one of my faves) which produces fruity ripe wines. Mellow stone fruit flavours with a long finish.

VIOGNIER 2009 $65.00 Stone fruit flavours – peach and nectarine. Drinking very well right now, but could well last a few more years.

PINOT GRIS 2009 $77.00 Floral aromas with stone fruit flavours. Pear and crisp apple juice on the palate.

(PHIL PARKER) PN Phil Parker is a wine writer and operates Fine Wine Tours in Auckland. www.insidertouring.co.nz

WANT TO ADVERTISE HERE TO REACH 67,000* READERS CALL JO BARRETT: T: 09 361 3356 M: 021 324 510 E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz W: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz * NIELSEN MEDIA

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WHAT’S HOT AT SABATO Weddings are a celebration of the union of two people – their love, their lives, and their kitchens! Whether the happy couple are keen cooks, or simply like to eat well, here at Sabato you’ll find a range of gift ideas to suit any level of culinary capability.

GOURMET GIFT HAMPERS Our gorgeous gourmet gifts are brimming with a delectable assortment of European ingredients and locally sourced products. Choose from our ready-made range of hampers, designed to suit any taste or budget, or let us custom-create the perfect selection for you. Popular themes to choose from include Spanish, Italian, sweet treats and organic.

LORIMER KNIVES Peter Lorimer has been crafting knives for the past 15 years, and his creations have found themselves all over the world. The handles are hand-made from recycled pieces of native New Zealand timbers, and decorated with brass, paua or black pearl, which means each knife is a unique work of art.

RACHEL CARLEY CERAMICS These pretty ceramic “antiques of the future” are available in an elegant and eclectic range of forms, glazed with her soft, signature colours.

LAGUIOLE FRENCH CUTLERY The little bee that adorns each Laguiole piece is a sign of traditional French quality and artisan craftsmanship. It will be a set they’ll truly treasure forever.

And if you just can’t decide, gift vouchers are available.

See you in store! PN SABATO, 57 Normanby Road T: 09 630 8751 www.sabato.co.nz

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THE ‘MISS JONES’ INTERVIEW

GREAT FOOD AND SERVICE AT ELLA Ella Cafe & Lounge sits snugly on Ponsonby Road surrounded by fashion shops, popular bars and restaurants. For two and a half years, Erwin Zimmet has been serving locals simple European style bistro food and wine and he’s having fun doing it. “Hospitality comes easily to me,” says Erwin, “I like to cook for and entertain my friends and I love to see people happy.”

Erwin finished his Economics degree in Germany before moving here to join his family in 1989. He first worked in construction and quickly realised he was more suited to hospitality so went to university to complete a three year hospitality management degree. He worked at Merlot in High Street for six months and when the opportunity to buy the business was offered to him he jumped at the chance. He made a few changes, the America’s cup brought in new business and customers loved what they were doing. Six years later it was time for a change.

Erwin wanted to create something that looked like it had been here for a long time and would still be here in a hundred years, serving great food to the locals. “Trends come and go and right now small plates are popular, but that will pass and we’ll still be here, the kind of food we do never goes out of style. It suits a wide variety of people, you can cook it at home if you have the inclination; you can come in and have soup or a three course meal; we can be casual or upmarket; we can be whatever you want us to be, that’s the beauty of a neighbourhood bistro.”

This little local lives by an old school ethic of keeping things simple. Ella likes to use products that have provenance and Erwin supports local producers whenever he can.

He only uses free range meat and he notes that people in this neighbourhood have an appreciation for it. “Customers used to ask us if we used organic or free range and many people expect it, so we have written it on the menu. Also, the SPCA has given us their Good Egg Award. The prices for these premium products keep going down so it is easier to use them now and there is more on offer too, not just meat, but local organic vegetables and fruit.”

The new Ponsonby Central Market is an exciting prospect for the neighbourhood because it will bring more people back to Ponsonby. “I say bring on the competition, the more places to eat on Ponsonby Road, the busier we all will be,” says Erwin. The new development will be a European style market with produce, butchery and food to take home. With all the new restaurants on the waterfront and around Britomart, many restaurants in Ponsonby have noticed a downturn and are looking forward to seeing more people come back to the neighbourhood.

“I want to make our customers happy and have fun doing it, if it was a chore I wouldn’t do it but, when it’s quiet, it’s hard not to take it personally. The Chef asks if it’s because

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of his food; the waiter’s ask if it’s their service. We know it’s because there are so many more places open than a year ago and the population hasn’t expanded to meet what’s on offer. We know we are really good and the locals support us and there are many regulars who come to Ella because of the type of place it is. We just keep smiling and making great food and having fun.” (REBECCA JONES) PN ELLA CAFE & LOUNGE, 118 Ponsonby Road. T: 09 378 7979 www.ellacafe.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PLAY HOST AT THE MOST TALKED ABOUT DINNER PARTY IN TOWN! Treat yourself and your friends to exquisite dining and bask in the glory of being the ‘Hostess with the Mostess!

We’re giving you the chance to host your dream dinner party with nine friends at either your house, Kermadec with its magnificent seaside views, or Bracu in the rolling countryside. Our top chefs will be on call no matter where the venue. To enter simply visit www.facebook.com/ kermadecrestaurant or www.facebook.com/bracurestaurant Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour is the stunning setting for Kermadec’s array of innovative dining and entertaining venues.

The Fine Dining Restaurant is manned by a talented team of chefs who craft dishes using only the freshest and finest local and international cuisine. Choose from an À la carte, or exquisite handcrafted degustation menu. Why not relax on the balcony of the Brasserie and bar and soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a seafood platter, cold beer and glass of wine. The Tasting Room at Kermadec has a great selection of fresh tapas including lemon tempura jumbo prawns, salt and pepper squid and even a whitebait sandwich.

The latest addition to Kermadec is The Roof Garden, the perfect spot for an intimate occasion seating up to 25 people. Exclusively designed by the very talented Noel Lane, The Roof Garden has an open air loggia which provides spectacular views of the viaduct below. But if it’s the romance of the countryside you’re after, Bracu is the destination for you. Nestled on the Simunovich Olive Estate near the Bombay Hills, Bracu will ignite your senses, captivate your palate and replenish your soul.

Choose from a degustation menu or an À la carte menu (available on weekends), then take a stroll through the olive groves or a sneak peek of the Rare Wine Library. PN For all opening hours go to www.kermadec.co.nz and www.bracu.co.nz or call KERMADEC T: 09 304 0454; BRACU T: 09 236 1030

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LOCAL NEWS: DEIRDRE ROELANTS

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THE TRANSFORMATION OF A LOCAL PUB Unlike most other pubs west of and adjacent to the CBD, the former Gables Tavern does not have a long history.

In 1977 the building was designed to sit comfortably alongside the wooden villas of Herne Bay and was a departure from the ‘six o’clock swill’ booze barns of the past.

The tavern was fitted out with gaming machines, a TAB, a sports bar, and also ran pub quiz nights with live music playing in the lounge bar. All of this innovation proved very popular with the locals and about six years ago, when two developers planned to demolish the building and build a replacement tavern, plus retail commercial and residential units on the prime site, the locals rose up in arms. They banded together, spent up to $50,000 fighting the proposal, and the development was eventually ruled against by the Environment Court.

Mind you, as the years went by, the old place was starting to look very tired and in 2010 it was transformed into a Speights Ale House. The interior was completely demolished and turned into a large, airy single room with a bar in the centre dividing it in two. The front area is for casual drinkers and the other side is reserved as a dining area with separate waiting staff. The menu is very upmarket and more what you would expect from a fancy restaurant, but without the fancy prices. A rural theme pervades, featuring lots of wood and copper plus all sorts of Speights memorabilia. There’s a large slate fireplace in a sunken lounge thats topped with half a brewery kettle and there are two outside areas, a covered one at the entrance and a partially covered one at the side.

These have heaters installed and a large television screen on the wall.

There are sixteen Speights Ale Houses spread throughout the country from Invercargill to Auckland, all coming under the Speights umbrella but individually owned. Brent Matchett, or ‘Match’ has a wealth of experience in the Hospitality Industry and is the new proprietor of the time honoured Gables. He’s also a bit of a rugby fanatic and is the current manager of the Cook Islands Sevens team on the IRB Circuit. He tells me that foodwise, what works for Invercargill is not necessarily the same as in Auckland so he and his talented chef, Scott Greer have devised a menu that suits the local environment. Everything served is made from scratch in the kitchen using the freshest produce available. Staff are trained to know the menu and explain it properly in order to make sure the service is of equally high standard.

The dining area also serves as a function room and can accommodate up to 150 people. Mandie Hughes is the events manager and comes to the Ale House

after working and managing some of the best restaurants in Auckland, including Soul, Sails, and Harbourside. She is more than capable of taking care of any requirements, whether it’s a wedding, a corporate do, a 50th anniversary or a twenty first birthday. The choice is up to clients as to whether they want Canapés, Bar food, or a Set Menu. The Buffet menu has four price options and spit roasted lamb or pork is available on request.

Another nice touch the Ale House provides are ‘kid’s entertainment bags’ that stave off boredom and allow parents to dine in peace, because Match is keen on promoting the place as a family environment as well. No worries about where to park either! There’s a massive area behind the building plus dedicated spaces on Kelmarna Avenue.

Of course the all important ingredient of a pub is good beer. Speights beer is served on tap and the range includes Gold, Distinction, Old Dark, Porter, Traverse, Pilsner and Summit. Empire Pale Ale is also served. Wine lovers aren’t neglected and the list includes most grape varieties.

Martin Read in his ‘Auckland Pub Guide’ describes it as a ‘lovely themed pub that, because of its high standards, has proved very popular with the local Herne Bay crowd’. His book can be purchased by clicking on facebook.com/PubGuide if you can’t find it in your local bookshop. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

IT’S THE FRANKLIN, WHERE LOCALS LOVE TO MEET PONSONBY LOCALS HAVE BEEN COMMENTING ON THE NEW BAR ON the strip and The Franklin Tap House and Eatery, at 198 Ponsonby Road – atop Franklin Road – is already attracting an enthusiastic following of locals looking for a new Ponsonby experience.

In a street full of bars, what makes The Franklin so different?

“Design-wise, what we’ve tried to achieve is a unique blend of heritage meeting modern,” says General Manager Justin Clark, “stylish yet comfortable surroundings with room to move and a nod to the area’s rich history and character and we believe that resonates well with the Ponsonby area.”

“Customers comment on the spacious layout, indoor-outdoor flow, the attractive yet understated décor with pleasant touches such as comfortable couches, and high bar leaners. The long communal 20-seater table has already proved extremely popular with groups out for an evening of fun and good food,” he added.

So what’s on offer?

“It’s a welcoming pub experience with willing staff, a great selection of beers, wines and cocktails and a mix of popular nibbles and innovative food choices to suit all tastes and palates, thanks to our passionate young chef, Sinead Boyler” says Justin.

THE FRANKLIN TAP HOUSE AND EATERY is only at stage one and they’ve got room to expand, with a function room currently being developed upstairs. Keep checking their website regularly for updates. www.thefranklinbar.co.nz PN

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY VITAMIN GUM – CHEW THE RIGHT THING Two young local entrepreneurs Dan Fantl and Josh Egan started Vitamin Gum in Ponsonby about 18 months ago, having identified a gap in the market for a new chewing gum with added vitamins.

Ponsonby News asked them about their business.

WHAT ARE YOUR BACKGROUNDS? We’re locals through and through and attended Ponsonby Primary (steadfast and true!) and Ponsonby Intermediate. Later Dan worked in advertising and Josh was a poker player.

WHAT GAVE YOU THE IDEA TO START YOUR BUSINESS? We’ve wanted to start a business together for as long as we can remember, a business that we could have some fun with and one that would reflect our personalities. In mid 2010 we were both back in Ponsonby after several years of travelling and the timing seemed right to jump into something and get to work. We brainstormed countless ideas and when Dan said ‘Vitamin Gum’ we knew we were on to something. Six months later we had a manufacturer in the US, packaging designed, some start-up capital and we were ready to roll.

WHAT ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS? We’ve been brand lovers ever since we were old enough to show off our latest pair of Nikes on the Ponsonby Primary basketball court. Closer to home Charlie’s and 42 Below really showed that you can create a great brand from scratch here in New Zealand if you do it the right way. We’ve both read Geoff Ross’s (Founder of 42 Below) book ‘Every Bastard Says No’ several times which provided LOTS of inspiration and motivation. Shot Geoff.

WHY IS THE PRODUCT CONSIDERED HEALTHY? Chewing gum is a very effective way to add vitamins to your diet as it allows for faster absorption into the blood stream via the mucous lining in the mouth. Two pieces of our gum provide up to 25% of the recommended daily intake of vitamins A, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, D and E – all important in maintaining energy levels, immunity, eyesight and strong teeth and bones. What better way to gain valuable nutrients during a busy day of work, study or play?

WE WERE IMPRESSED WITH YOUR 6,300 PLUS LIKES ON FACEBOOK. HOW DID YOU ACHIEVE THAT? We realised right from the start that sampling would be key for us as consumers can be hesitant to try vitamin-enriched products.

Facebook was the perfect platform to get samples to kiwis all over the country so we launched a promotion where everybody that liked our page was sent a free pack of Vitamin Gum. It spread like wildfire and we were soon sending out 100s of packs a day. Nek minnit we had 6000 likes.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE BUSINESS? We want to create an international brand we can be proud of and have a bunch of fun along the way. We love this country and we’re working our butts off to to establish ourselves in the New Zealand market.

However to make the business viable we really need to expand overseas. We launched in Australia last month with some great support from 7-Eleven. Next stop? Asia!

WHERE CAN YOU BUY THE PRODUCT? Countdown, ‘Z’ service stations, Liquor King, Les Mills central, selected convenience stores, and 7-Eleven (Australia). We’re trying to get in more stores every day!

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE THINGS ABOUT PONSONBY? What’s not to love?

The people, the food, and for whatever reason the sun always seems to shine brighter in Ponsonby. We feel very very fortunate to have grown up in what we like to call ‘The Bay Area’... I guess we have to give a little shout out to our parents for that because it seems like it will be a VERY long time before we can afford a place around here! www.vitamingum.com

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY

HOME COURT FAVOURS THE BRAVE AUCKLAND COMPETITORS DOMINATED THE FINAL ROUNDS OF THE NATIONAL Badminton championship which was held at the Auckland Badminton courts in Epsom late last month. With no less than 19 athletes from both Auckland and Waitakere featuring on the final day of the week long tournament there was always going to be a sea of blue and white on the winner’s podium, but no one in their wildest dreams would have ever predicted what took place. The women’s singles, women’s doubles and men’s doubles and the mixed doubles titles were all taken out by Auckland-based athletes.

Only one prize managed to elude an Auckland-based competitor, which was the men’s singles title with Waikato veteran TJ Weistra firstly beating Auckland’s Samuel Ho in the semi-finals and then heading off Waitakere’s Luke Charlesworth in the final 21-17, 21-14.

Weistra who narrowly lost the title in a three set thriller in 2011 continued to show that age is no barrier in the sport of Badminton and fired a barb towards the next crop of the countries elite, suggesting they need to make the decision to compete on an international level and stick to it. “Travelling the world and competing takes plenty of determination and disappointment but in order to be the best you have to make sacrifices – and me winning the 2012 title just shows these young guys that experience in big matches counts for a lot,” said Weistra after the victory.

Weistra who’s a former professional player laughed “it would have been great to be given a good kick in the butt by some of these younger guys. I love the sport so much I just want to see someone else come through and take the mantle.”

The surprise package of the tournament was the efforts of Auckland junior Lilian Shih.

Shih, who at just 17-years old appears to have a good long future ahead in the game after a defiant three sets win over Southland’s Anna Rankin wining 21-19, 9-21, 21-15 in just under an hour.

Less than a week after the New Zealand national champs Auckland badminton was at it again with the inaugural Kiwi Cup Masters International Badminton tournament.

The new tournament features players from worldwide badminton strongholds – with competitors from China and Malaysia taking part. In fact there are 39 players from Malaysia and 16 from China. Also taking part is former world No2 ranked singles player Ong Eu Hock (Malaysia) who is still under 40 years-old and incredibly fit. In total there are 180 entries with New Zealanders making up the bulk of the numbers.

Other players of note that are entered include Kiwi racquet sport legend Richard Purser, dual New Zealand sporting international Phil Horne (cricket and badminton), Kerrin Harrison a medallist at the 1982 Commonwealth Games as well as Li Feng the former Chinese and New Zealand representative.

The week will also boast a new initiative for a Masters International Badminton event, a combined ages format. Rather than just players in their 40s or players in their 50s competing against each other there is a combined age 90s bracket; the team could be made up of two 45-year-olds or a 35 and a 55-year-old. This could turn out to be an exciting new bracket for the sport of Badminton, easily adopted by other Masters sports. (GEORGE BERRY) PN

THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES FROM CRICKET TO RUGBY, BACK TO CRICKET THEN RUGBY LEAGUE. Eden Park has been truly put through its paces this summer and with continued pressure being applied to the shoulders of sporting seasons there looks to be no let up for groundsman Mark Perham and his dedicated team.

The drop-in cricket wicket is without a doubt one of the greatest inventions for the code but the remarkable leaps and bounds that have been made in grass growing and management techniques have afforded the likes of Eden Park to be transformed into a showcase stadium. Being a groundsman is no longer just about watching grass grow or mowing lawns, it’s all about planning and precision, when and how to paint the designated lines and advertising blocks, putting up posts, the ins and outs of the retractable seats and even replacing sections of grass that aren’t quite fit for the intended sport.

The timing of the Black Caps ODI against South Africa at Eden Park and the Warriors season opener the following day against the Manly Sea Eagles meant things were always going to be tight for the groundsmen to get it right but for the nearly four thousand fans that turned up the second day there would hardly have been a spectator that would have cared there was a game of cricket being played on the turf less than 20 hours before.

The past 12 months or so haven’t been without challenges for Perham’s crew; and racking up one hundred and sixty one thousand kilometres over the past three years on his work ute is a testament to that. With the number two ground at Eden Park

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out of action for the past couple of seasons Perham has been back and forward to Auckland’s temporary home of cricket, Colin Maiden Park in Pakuranga.

“Some times, two to three times per day, I’ve had to shoot across town to the ground and then race back for a meeting, and then get back to Colin Maiden in the afternoon to check what the boys are up to and things like that,” said Perham. “I am very much looking forward to the final game of first class cricket for the season so we can rein things back in a bit and solely focus on what’s going on around here,” Perham mentioned from Eden Park.

Given the council has invested so much into the grounds I probed Perham on whether he truly believed Eden Park could become something that Aucklanders are truly proud of and given a stadium’s influence on securing hosting rights for international events is the ground up to those sorts of rigours on a consistent basis or was this summer just one out of the ordinary.

He quickly quipped, “bring it on; as long as our resource consent allows us to, we are open to all sorts of events, the more the merrier. There is one thing that would make it easier on us though,” he went on to point out, “is that when we have a dual code weekend like we have been this year, if the advertisers were the same, life would be a whole lot happier for the boys in my team.”

The Number two ground at Eden Park is reopens for domestic cricket in October this year. (GEORGE BERRY) PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY

CHANGE OF SCENERY FOR NEW ZEALAND’S TOP SAILOR Aged only 25 Adam Miniprio has a long list of sailing achievements – but the job he’s tasked with at the moment is without a doubt the hardest thing the former King’s College student has ever turned his hand to.

After winning the world match racing title in 2009 Miniprio looked unstoppable in the world of sailing, but the first four legs of his maiden Volvo Ocean race has quickly brought him crashing back down to reality. I recently caught up with Miniprio and his Camper crewmates in their recent stopover in Auckland to get an insight into how things were going for one of the newest members of the Team New Zealand - Camper syndicate.

Q: A: Q: A: Q: A:

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You’re heading off into what’s regarded as the most dangerous waters in the world as far as natural conditions, what are you expecting and have the rest of the crew been telling you what to expect or have they been staying quiet?

A:

I’m aware of what to expect I think, this leg is going to be the toughest, 14 to 16 hours of darkness when we round the horn and head up to Brazil. Some of the older guys have said there could be ice all over the boat and sails etc, massive swells and crazy freak waves, but at this stage all I can do is hope things are a little kinder on me than they have been in the past. That’s why on one hand I wish this stopover in Auckland was longer but I just want to get around the horn and get this one over.

Q: A:

You have a sleeping space smaller than most people’s lounges but you’ve got to fit 11 guys in there, how have you coped with that?

Adam, you’ve been the skipper on board for many of your successes but on Camper you are far from the top dog as the Driver/Trimmer?

Yeah you’re right I’ve quickly found myself doing all sorts of jobs that I probably wouldn’t have had to do in any other format of racing but to be honest the crew all chip in no matter what needs to be done, and unfortunately whenever it needs to be done.

Have there been any times so far that you’ve thought – gee this might have been the wrong decision?

A couple of times when there’s a 40 foot swell and the boat is free falling down the back of an eight meter wave, coming to a dead stop and then straight back up the next one – yeah there are times like that, but those bad days are quickly forgotten when you’re miles from anywhere and you think to yourself that hardly anyone in the world would have ever seen what you’re seeing right now – like out in the middle of the southern ocean.

When you’re out there, what are the sorts of things you crave and are there places or people you just can’t wait to see?

It’s funny – when you’re coming into port you start thinking about what restaurant you want to go to or what you want to eat, like a steak or a burger or catching up with your mates, but nothing really when I’m mid leg. When I’m at that stage it’s the simple things like being dry and staying safe.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Q: A:

We operate in 4 hour shifts; four hours on and four hours off; so that cuts it back to half the crew looking for sleep at any time and when you’ve been battered around for hours all you want is to crawl into that dry sleeping bag so it becomes pretty easy pretty quickly to forget about what’s really going on.

At the half way point of your debut in the round the world ocean race would you want to do another?

Yeah definitely, I’m not so sure how the skills from ocean racing transfer to match racing but this is what being a sailor is all about. Being out there where no one else has been, pitching yourself against the weather and trying to beat your opposition. I love winning and can only hope we are the first to cross the line into Galway and win this title.

The fleet have now headed from Auckland bound for Itajai in Brazil then on to Miami, Portugal, France and an expected finish into Galway, Ireland around 3 July.

(GEORGE BERRY) PN

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FASHION + STYLE

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AUGUSTINE - NEWEST STORE Rain, schmain! Augustine was packed (in the nicest of ways) on Wednesday 21 March when owner Kelly Coe celebrated her newest store – the brand’s third – at the Three Lamps end of Ponsonby Road. www.augustineinternational.co.nz 1. Pene Tsitsiras, Brenda Hembrow and Evelyn Ebrey; 2. Kate Smith and Kelly Coe; 3. Angie Tinker and Miriama Smith.

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BRAVISTA AT PONSONBY MARKET DAY In celebration of Ponsonby Market Day, Bravista in Three Lamps laid a red carpet on the footpath in front of their store, on which friends and family (bravely) modelled exquisite lingerie and swimwear. www.bravista.com 1. Stacey Bolland; 2. Lynlee Smith.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE

JULIE ROULSTON LONELY MIAOW’S FASHION RESCUE

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Got designer duds that you want to get rid of? The Lonely Miaow Association is seeking donations of good quality second hand clothing, shoes and accessories that can be sold at their Fashion Rescue sale in late April (date and venue TBC, so keep your eyes peeled!).

Items are currently being collected, so if you have anything to donate there are drop off points located around Auckland, in Ponsonby, Parnell, Herne Bay, Sandringham, Te Atatu, Bayview, Birkdale, Pukekohe, Pt England, and Waimauku. To find out locations email info@ lonelymiaow.co.nz, or call (09) 575 9760. All proceeds raised go directly back into the care of rescued cats and kittens to cover costs for de-sexing, vaccinations, micro-chipping, vet bills, cat food and cat litter. Currently there are 30 kittens/cats in foster care ready to go to loving homes.

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Lonely Miaow is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the care and rescue of stray and abandoned cats and kittens in the Greater Auckland area. Our mission is ‘no more strays’ so remember to DE-SEX YOUR CAT!

CHERRY BISHOP AND LIVE AND LET DYE Karangahape Road designer Cherry Bishop joined forces with Mt Eden’s Live and Let Dye salon for a night of rock’n’roll, vintage fun on Wednesday 21 March. It was pouring outside but inside was a girly haven of fashion, cupcakes and fine china, and art of both the wall and nail varieties. www.cherrybishop.co.nz 1. Sarah Thomas and Cherry Bishop; 2. Amy Trouble and Ceara O’Flaherty.

WHOOPIE - LIFE BEYOND CUPCAKES? CUPCAKES – LAST DECADE? MACAROONS - last year? The newest sweet treat in fashionable circles are Whoopie cakes. Made using two perfectly dome-shaped cakes, sandwiched together with a decadent creamy filling, Whoopie cakes use fresh and natural ingredients, and will now all be baked and hand-decorated from the new Whoopie kitchen in West Lynn.

Flavours such as Red Velvet with Crème Cheese, Dark Chocolate & Hazelnut with Dark Chocolate Ganache and Banana, Walnut & Cardomom with Salted Caramel will entice even the most resistant sweet tooth. Lucy Stuart, Whoopie’s co-owner and Pastry Chef, says that the team is very excited about their first Whoopie store. “We’ve had great success through Auckland stockists, but it’s awesome to have a place that we can really make our own,” she says. “We want our customers to be able to come in and say ‘hi’ to us and we want to meet the people that are enjoying the products that we put so much love and effort into.”

Why ‘Whoopie’? Folklore has it that In the 1920s, Amish women would bake a special dessert to put in the farmer’s lunch boxes. The men lucky enough to discover one of these tasty treats at lunchtime would shout “Whoopie!”

The Whoopie team can personalise your order to make them perfect for your unique event. Whoopie cakes contain no preservatives, artificial flavours or stabilisers – just good old New Zealand butter, fresh free-range eggs and real vanilla beans. Odds on we’ll be seeing Whoopies at many an upcoming fashion event.

WHOOPIE CAKES, 2A Hakanoa Street T: 09 555 4219 www.whoopie.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

To find out more on the Fashion Rescue Sale dates and venue, please continue to check the Lonely Miaow website www.lonelymiaow.co.nz and like their Facebook page www.facebook.com/lonelymiaow Spring clean your wardrobe and you’ll help save the kitties! PN LONELY MIAOW, T: 09 575 9760 ww.lonelymiaow.co.nz

LAUNCHED: STOLEN SECRETS JEWELLERY Fashion agency Evolution this month launched its new jewellery range, Stolen Secrets.

Owner Miranda Cobb, who also owns Evolution Clothing (with a store on Ponsonby Road), says the response to the new range has been incredible, with 20 stores signing up to retail Stolen Secrets Jewellery.

The launch collection features a mixture of vintage and fashion-forward and encompasses 80 pieces ranging in price from $12 to $99 RRP. Ten new styles will be released every month to keep the collection current.

Miranda says Stolen Secrets is meeting an important need in the market for affordable, fashion-forward jewellery. “The right jewellery can really pull an outfit together, but you shouldn’t have to pay hundreds to do so,” she says.

Miranda launched her first Evolution boutique in Mount Maunganui in 2005 when she was just 25 years old.

Evolution Clothing employs 20 staff and has stores in Mount Maunganui (head office) and Taupo, in addition to the Ponsonby store. PN EVOLUTION, 282 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0995 www.evolutionclothing.co.nz

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PONSONBY DESIGNERS AT NZFF

Last month’s New Zealand Fashion Festival gave the public a chance to see both designer and ‘high street’ labels’ new Winter 2012 collections on the runway at The Cloud. Photographer (and delightful Grey Lynn girl) Nikau Hindin shares some highlights from Ponsonby designers.

1. ZAMBESI’s sportswear-inspired collection offered many an unexpected zing of fluoro yellow, as well as this eye-popping electric blue; 2. CYBELE hadn’t shown at New Zealand Fashion Week as she had a new baby, so for many this was the first runway look at her Winter 2012 collection;

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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3. WORKSHOP revealed a deliciously hard edge with leather a key component. This clever dress is knit at the back; 4. Eyebrows are fuller and often a runway feature this season - CHANEL just decked theirs out with crystals. For WORKSHOP M.A.C created an exaggerated brow to highlight edgy styling. “Pairing the edgy brow with a beautiful, glowing no-makeup skin is based on a M.A.C makeup trend called ATH-ELITE” says MAC Resident Trainer Kiri O’Brien, who ‘keyed’ the show; 5.

Intricate braiding offset stunning silvery tailored pieces from MOOCHI; 6. The darlings of New Zealand Fashion Week, MISTER showed both their menswear and their new womenswear at NZFF. Marvel in Ponsonby Road is the country’s biggest MisteR menswear stockist; 7. HUFFER worked in predominantly Autumn colours for its menswear - like this maroon jacket - and as always jubilantly mix-match the details and panelling to keep the HUFFER guy fresh; 8. Newton label WE’AR made a very well received runway debut. The brand made its name on yoga clothing but also offers an extensive range of nicely differentiated streetwear.

Nikau Hindin’s photography can be viewed online at www.fashionphotos.co.nz (JULIE ROULSTON)

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PONSONBY WINTER 2012 FASHION What does winter fashion bring to your mind? If it’s sharply tailored warm suiting, deftly accessorised sportswear layers or cosy textures, you’ll love what Ponsonby Designers have to show you on these pages. You can layer it all over a luxe, jet black lingerie base...

Evolution: Blazer ($129), shirt ($109), jean ($139), TRAVEL THE WORD shoe ($199). STOLEN SECRETS rings ($22.90) and necklace ($49).

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tkstore: Moscow Blue boucle jacket ($550), Mini ($269), black fitted Perfect Shirt ($199). WOODEN HEEL ITALIAN imported shoe ($379) – High Street store only).

TOM FORD 5146 Spectacles ($565).

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Bravista: Jacqueline by OROTON BRA ($89.99) and brief ($59.99). AUCKLAND RING COMPANY diamond drop style earrings set with 1ct of brilliant diamonds in 18ct white gold ($3,360).

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Marilyn Seyb: BIYA ‘Kiaskari’ short jacket ($599.90), MARILYN SEYB ‘Glamour’ swing shirt ($179.90), stripe pant ($169.90), diamante chain bracelet ($149.90).

DAVID ELMAN ‘Aro 3285’ boot ($265.00).

MAKEUP: Helen Luo at Smashbox HOW TO: start by creating a beautiful, smooth, natural photo-ready base. Counter redness in the skin with Smashbox greentoned Primer. Brows are kept natural, and filled in a little as brows are fuller this season “wear your brows proudly!” says Helen. Model Grace wears a classic smokey eye in matte colour with a little eyeliner, smudged out on the bottom and clean and unfussy on the top. Helen used the mascara wand to curl Grace’s lashes: “get the wand really close to your lashes and push them up while you flick the wand out” she advises. Wearing coloured spectacle frames?

Keep eyecolour pared back so it doesn’t compete with the bright frames.

HAIR: Alan Wang at Servilles Ponsonby HOW TO: Dry the hair completely and set in big rollers using the ‘O’ (the cult heated roller device from Cloud 9). Unroll and brush out with a bristle brush to get more volume. Backcomb at the roots using the brush - gentler on the hair. Finish with a light shine spray.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Michael Ng www.ngfoto.com MODEL: Grace at Clyne www.clynemodels.com WHERE TO BUY: see page 67.

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FASHION + STYLE

JULIE ROULSTON STYLE & GRACE COMES TO PONSONBY ROAD STYLE & GRACE IS A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS with three “mini-department” stores situated in Parnell, Queenstown and now Ponsonby. You’ll find the large, airy new store just down from The Fairy Shop – rather convenient for mums, aunties and grandmas alike!

The business was established a decade ago to address the difficulty many women find in acquiring appropriate, wellfitted clothing.

Style & Grace houses a comprehensive variety of labels which are simultaneously practical and stylish, such as enormously popular Australian brand Mela Purdie, New Zealand labels Jet Blonde and Lifespace, and Messop’s clever layering pieces.

The store’s size range is 10-20, and new stock is also uploaded onto the store’s easy -to-navigate website instantaneously, so Style & Grace customers can shop online if they prefer.

Want to truly indulge yourself? Style & Grace heighten the shopping experience with an extensive variety of complementary products, from glamorous jewellery to statement bags, and especially shoes. Each Style & Grace boutique houses a footwear ‘store within a store’, where you’ll find labels Högl, Progetto, Mina Martini, Fiona McGuinness and more. PN STYLE & GRACE, 81 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 0839 www.stylegrace.co.nz

FOOT IT WITH THE BEST The first thing a stylish woman or man will pounce on each season, is a new pair of shoes or boots. Some of our favourite experts share what’s making their well-heeled hearts pound as the new season stock rolls in…

KERRY GLADMAN - HEAVENLY SOLES

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE FOOTWEAR TRENDS FOR A/W 2012?

We are seeing a lot of suede. I know it is winter but if you treat suede shoes and boots well they will stay looking great. Other trends are (more) platforms and a lot of wedges.

WHAT SHOE DO YOU COVET THIS NEW SEASON? On my wish list is our United Nude Deluxe ankle boot (pictured). The boots are very flattering and certainly a conversation starter!

WHAT STYLE DO YOU PREDICT WILL BE YOUR BESTSELLER THIS SEASON? Coloured boots will be hot this season! Black is great, but it is so exciting so see so much colour coming through.

CONTINUED ON P65

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FASHION + STYLE

JULIE ROULSTON FOOT IT WITH THE BEST (CONTINUED FROM P64

KATHRYN WILSON - DESIGNER

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE FOOTWEAR TRENDS FOR A/W 2012?

Combinations of texture and hi-shine – we have referenced this using croc and lizard embossed leather, in contrast with velvet and patent leather. Stacked heels and platforms – a great way to wear a heel that you can keep on all day from the office into the evening and still feel comfortable. Metallic appliqué – we have adorned heels and boots with nickel studs which give a simple silhouette an edge of rock’n roll.

WHAT SHOE DO YOU COVET THIS NEW SEASON? The Kathryn Wilson Walden boot in Zebra Calf – it’s fun…a great way to introduce pattern into a simple outfit.

WHAT STYLE DO YOU PREDICT WILL BE YOUR BESTSELLER THIS SEASON? The Diane boot in Gold / Black… it’s a classic style boot with a heel that suits a wide audience, in fun contrasted textures of suede calf and croc embossed leather.

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ANGELA LASSIG: LETTERS FROM MAUDIE The monthly jottings of a free-spirited Ponsonby dressmaker of the 1920s, as imagined by Angela Lassig.

VERMONT STREET, PONSONBY 2 APRIL 1925

Dear Violet What better to do at the end of a miserable grey and drizzly late summer’s day than to write some long overdue letters. Yours is the first! I’ve just poured some tea and Tiger has not at all daintily thrown himself down on the rug with a very audible doggy sigh. After following me around all day, I do believe that Tiger is as pleased as I am to be settled in one place for a while. I’m sure it won’t be long before we’re joined by pusskins who is at present in the garden getting all excited by the birds feeding on the worms washed out of their lairs by the rain.

Yesterday I took a walk down Jervois Road to buy some Easter lilies for mother from Mrs. Gavin[vi]. I find she usually has a delightful selection that always seems most fresh. Feeling rather fatigued (it was an uncommonly hot day) I decided to take tea. You’ll be pleased to know (and supremely envious) that Mrs. G is making her custard squares again and I swear that they are even more delicious than ever! As I didn’t have to share (or rather, you to share one with!), I ate only half and took the other half home. Needless to say, it didn’t survive the journey…

In your last postcard you asked for all the local news. As it’s only been a month since you left Ponsonby I don’t expect that you’ll find us much changed. You, however, are greatly missed and are asked after on a regular basis. So Violet, now that you are settled in Sydney, please do send me regular newsy letters so ghten them. that I can enlighten

I mustn’t forget to mention that I went to St Margaret’s[vii] to visit Jessie and her new baby. What an angel! She and George haven’t decided on whether to call her Annie or Rose. I think she’s a Rose myself. I took her the booties that you crocheted and Jessie is so pleased w with them that she’s going to use them for the christening. You’ll be pleased with that! With winter coming on, I made ‘Rosey’ a long cape from the softest wool flannel that I could find. I’ve added a second layer that looks like a deep collar and I’ve lined it all with cream silk that I’ve lightly padded and quilte quilted. I’ve bound all the edges so with matching silk and added some wide silk ribbon ties at the neck. Jessie and George eac each gave me a big hug and Ros Jessie has promised to have Rosie’s portrait taken dressed in her cape as a memento. We p pretty much talked and ate our way through a whole pou pound box of Fry’s Windsor assorted chocolates that some someone else had brought! But don’t worry; I left them with a pound box of Cadbury chocolate caramel walnuts that I picked up from th hospital.

Evans’s[viii] on my way to the

I’ve been keptt extremely busy the past few rders for autumn and trying weeks with orders to make up a few original designs to have for sale in my workroom. With the latter in ng to take advantage of the Easter sales to mind, I’m going ckroom. To this end I have already had long top up my stockroom. chats with my drapery assistant spies about the forthcoming reductions at Shanlys[i] and Oswalds[ii] and they have given he best bargains and where they will be displayed! me details of the und to visit your tenants as you asked and they are I’ve been around nicely settled in. They did want to get the piano tuned which I thought you wouldn’t mind. I gave them Mr Adams’[iii] details. ed that they’re happy to foot the bill. They are enjoying You’ll be pleased the environs of John Street very much and have befriended old Mr Standrich who stopped me for a chat as I was leaving. I must say that both Mr and Mrs Pike seem to like gardening very much ntained your roses beautifully (the Alberic Barbier is and have maintained still flowering!) and replanted the vegetable garden with a crop of o nothing to worry about there. winter fare. So ed my recommendation with regards to The Pikes asked utcher and grocer. As we are so well a good local butcher ey don’t mind walking, I recommended served and they our favourites in Jervois Road, College Hill ass well as Ponsonby akers and Road. As to bakers confectioners, well, what fter some could I say! After eration serious consideration ed I recommended v] and Buchanan’s [iv] hop[v].

Adams cake shop[v]. ey are very reliable I think that they d and good things for both bread le…wouldn’t you for the tea table…wouldn’t eminds me! I must agree? That reminds order a dozen hot cross buns from Buchanan’s as I have a few friends comingg to tea over idays. the Easter holidays.

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hear dustbins clattering down Oh my goodness, I just heard the street! The wind is get getting up and so should I if c I am to fit in my evening constitutional.

Yes, even in this weather Tiger seem seems to know what time it is!

Both of us will have to wear our mackintoshes… matching of course!

Well dear, please w write soon and so again will realis that I have given you so I (having just realised th you crave.) little of the news that With all good wishes for a Ha Happy Easter, Your friend always,

Maudie xx

The endnotes contain details of Ponsonby tradespeople and businesses as listed in Cleaves Cleav Auckland Provincial Directory for 1924-25. While these n names are real, references to them are purely fictional/fictitious. ctitious Any resemblance to real persons, living or deceased, is purely coincidental. [i] Shanlys Ltd-Drapers, Ponsonby B Buildings, cnr Ponsonby Road and College Hill [ii] Oswald and Co, Drapers, 11 -13 Ponsonby Road [iii] James Adams, Piano tuner, tuner 7a Costley Street [iv] James Buchanan, Bakers Baker and Confectioners, 259 - 261 Ponsonby Road [v] Adams, Bell & Co Lt Ltd, Cake Shop, Ponsonby Buildings, corner Ponsonby Road and College Hill [vi] Mrs Ellen Ell Gavin, Florist and Tea Rooms Rooms, 18 Jervois Road [vii] St Ma Margaret’s Maternity Hospital, 2231-235 Ponsonby Road.

In 1925 it was managed by Nurse Ivy and Nurse Nu Hill. [viii] Percy Evans-Grocer -149 - 151 Ponsonby Road

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

illustration: 99designs

How is your mother, by the way? I’m sure that your staying with her will lift her spirits no end and help in her recovery. Please do send her my best wishes. She is on my Easter card list so I’ll tell her myself very soon. Speaking ds, I decided to visit Mrs McCormick’s stationery shop for of Easter cards, ds (as she’s had such pretty stock in her window recently) and this year’s cards w you were getting on. I didn’t know that you frequented her she asked how establishment. Anyway, we got chatting about all sorts of things and she told me to tell you that Mrs. Lavering’s son ran off with the girl she told you about.

She wouldn’t tell me any more than that but said that you would know whom rs McCormick’s not at all surprised and from what she told me she meant. Mrs about ‘the girl’’ and the incident in January, I’m not either!

PONSONBY WINTER 2012 FASHION WHERE TO BUY: AUCKLAND RING COMPANY, 275 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0275 www.aucklandringcompany.co.nz DAVID ELMAN, 100 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 9005 www.davidelman.co.nz EVOLUTION, 282 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0995 www.evolutionclothing.co.nz Jacqueline by Oroton - BRAVISTA, 297 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 4334 www.bravista.co.nz MARILYN SEYB, 100 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 5804 www.kimberleys.co.nz SERVILLES PONSONBY, 348 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 9799 www.servilles.co.nz/salon/salons/ponsonby SMASHBOX, 342 Ponsonby Road T: 0800 SMASHBOX www.smashboxcosmetics.co.nz STOLEN SECRETS JEWELLERY, Evolution, 282 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0995 www.evolutionclothing.co.nz TKSTORE, 50 Brown Street, PONSONBY (and 18 High Street, City) T: 09 361 2020 www.tk.net.nz Tom Ford spectacles - OCCHIALI, 303 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 3073 www.occhiali.co.nz

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HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY

BRINGING OUT THE BIG GUNS: BEAUTY GOES HI TECH THERE ARE SOME MAJOR INNOVATIONS HITTING THE BEAUTY MARKETPLACE of late, many of which are seriously hi tech and eliciting some amazing results in the area of anti-ageing. Previously only available to the rich and famous, some of the best new tools are now within reach of the average person, and are often well worth a go if you’re considering a major overhaul of your skin.

First up we’ll look at the marvellous little beast at Louise Gray Skin Care known as the bt-nano. I’ve been having a course of half hour treatments with this tiny wonder at the Ponsonby Road beauty spot and have to say that the effects - as well as the science behind it – have me convinced that it really can make a serious difference to the skin.

So - what is it? And how does it work? The human skin gives the ideal bio network from which to create a metaphor for living in equilibrium. Maintaining proper barrier function of the skin is a bit like running a business, a household, an educational facility, and homeland security all at once. The interdependent and interrelated parts need cultivation, nourishment, discipline, investment, and protection. If one component is out of balance, it affects all other systems.

If the skin is not fed properly, given adequate protection, or in general is neglected, we surely recognise the signs, and do what it takes to restore balance and re-establish skin health. The solution to staying in balance is maintenance and meeting your skin’s changing needs, and Louise Gray believes that you can do both with the aid of the bt-nano.

The bt-nano utilises microcurrent, which is an extremely low level of electricity that mirrors the body’s own natural electrical impulses. bt-nano’s microcurrent acts as an external source of energy that the body can use to accelerate, and is a non-surgical, non-invasive cosmetic technique that safely and effectively improves the health and appearance of the skin. It utilises technologies developed in the medical and physiotherapy fields to activate the skin’s natural chemicals responsible for health and vitality, and can do all manner of good for all types of skins.

A microcurrent treatment can be used to improve muscle tone in face and neck, lift jowls and eyebrows, reduce and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, improve facial circulation, lymphatic drainage, product penetration, and much more, all in just a half an hour appointment once or twice a week. Clinical studies have shown that after twenty days of treatment collagen production increases by 14 per cent, elastin increases by 48 per cent, and blood circulation increases by 38 per cent, which is definitely no mean feat!

Because everyone’s skin is unique, the skin magicians (and I don’t use that term lightly) at Louise Gray Skin Care incorporate the non-invasive microcurrent methods using the bt-nano with Dermalogica skincare products to enhance your overall wellness. These facial treatments are completely customised for your skin type and skin condition, and each time I’ve visited I’ve experienced a very different line up of add ons depending on what my skin’s needs are on that particular day.

I’ve tried them as part of a one-hour facial and as half hour “drop in”-style treatments, depending on how much time I’ve got to invest in my skin that week. As I write this I’m on treatment number four and have to say that my skin is looking pretty transformed and feeling super hydrated – and at a time of seasonal change when I usually experience the most dryness and sensitivity. Incredible stuff, and highly recommended.

Another hi tech modality that is gaining in popularity by the day is the use of Fraxel fractional lasers, which you can experience in Ponsonby at Caci clinic. Fraxel is a non-invasive treatment that uses a laser beam to improve sun-damaged skin, lines and wrinkles and acne scarring. And while the fractional laser can provide significant results, it doesn’t require the lengthy recuperation that some other laser resurfacing treatments do.

The fractional laser works by treating microscopic areas of the skin at a time with a laser pulse that creates a tiny hole on the skin’s surface to trigger the growth of clear, new skin and promote collagen production to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. At Caci, the fractional laser is used as part of their Reformaskin Frax program – a 12-month plan of skin-correcting treatments designed by the clinic to provide clients with the very best results.

Caci also offer two types of light therapy for different skin conditions: Acnelux, Blue Light Therapy for the treatment of acne and Revivalux Red Light Therapy for rejuvenating the skin. Light therapy is hugely popular because it is a non-invasive and non-surgical option that provides very good results without any recovery time, and is easily added on after your regular facial or as a skin treat during your lunch hour.

The Revivalux emits totally pure, visible red light to stimulate the deeper skin tissue, leading to improved skin tone and elasticity, which gets a big tick in my book! It works with your body’s own natural processes to counteract the effects of ageing, and clients have reported an overall lifting and hydrating effect, an improvement in skin tone and texture, an evening-out of pigmentation and, in some cases, even a smoothing effect on fine lines and wrinkles.

The first treatment takes about 45 minutes – which allows for an initial consultation – then your ongoing treatments are typically 30-minute appointments, which includes 20 minutes of light therapy. After your makeup is removed the light is positioned close to your face (you have goggles on) and it’s time to close your eyes and relax for 20 minutes. The light feels pleasantly warm – never hot – on your skin as thousands of light emitting diodes surround your face with pure red light. It is a bit like lying on the beach in the sun for 20 minutes without the harmful UVA, UVB or infrared radiation, and with some pretty amazing results! (HELENE RAVLICH) PN

TIME TO SHINE AT MORE THAN SKIN WE’VE SEEN THE RESEARCH AND IT’S OFFICIAL – EVERY WOMAN IN every beauty survey ever conducted would love to have luminous, more radiant skin. A flawless complexion is the pinnacle of our hopes and dreams (well it’s one of the top ten) and means we can confidently face any situation, safe in the knowledge that our perfect skin will conquer all.

Well, I am delighted to report that this cherished pipe-dream can now become a reality with the launch of DECLÉOR’s new Life Radiance range at More Than Skin Urban Spa. Combining three years’ research with their extensive knowledge of cosmetic aromatherapy, DECLÉOR have discovered a new dual approach to both immediate luminosity and long lasting radiance.

A luminous complexion is the most obvious indicator of healthy skin, however daily stressors, pollution and inadequate protection can take their toll. Accordingly, DECLÉOR have created their Life Radiance line featuring two unique skin illuminating products to address these exact issues.

STUDIES QUALIFYING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THIS RANGE HAVE PRODUCED EXCEPTIONAL TEST RESULTS: • 73% of women reported an immediate improvement after one day • 94% experienced long-lasting radiance after one week and • 97% enjoyed an increasingly glowing complexion after one month’s use.

As the exclusive Ponsonby stockist of this prestigious French brand, More Than Skin is pleased to introduce the Life Radiance range to you. Simply purchase a Double Radiance Cream and Double Radiance Scrub and receive a FREE 45min Radiance Facial (valued at $95).

This offer is available throughout April so call Megs today on T: 09 361 2231 for more information. PN

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HOROSCOPES

MISS PEARL NECLIS

♈

Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April Time is speeding up and may be passing you by too quickly for your liking. Be adventurous and take the plunge where your dreams are concerned. There is a buzz in the air and it’s centred on you.

♉

Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May Sometime in the next few weeks you are going to wish you were somewhere else because you will just have had a busy time professionally and now you might find yourself emotionally being drawn into something that really you don’t need to be. You have been strong and positive most of your life and there is no need to think now will be any different.

♊ Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June

Whatever you take on board now will possibly shape the rest of your life unless you continue to carry on as if these things don’t matter. If you continue to be so indecisive maybe you should take some advice and listen, as it will always be to your benefit.

♋ Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July

Everything you’re doing now will have an influence on how you will feel in the future and if that means that you have to push past your normal boundaries and face your fears then this is what you have to do. You’re able to accomplish anything you want when you have to take control.

♌

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August You are usually very hard to stop from doing something especially when you get a belief that somehow it’s about you. You may have to take a backseat and watch from afar and let any feelings you have of being powerless go away.

♍

Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September Try not to be oversensitive this month especially if you feel criticism has been directed at you as normally this can drag you down a bit. Toughen up and you will realise that all feedback can be turned into a positive and any creativity that you have will return as long as you stop judging yourself.

“Skincare treatments should be part of your wedding day preparation, they will give you confidence and ensure you feel and look your best!”

– STELLA WILKINS, FACE POTENTIAL

ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE SEEN

♎

Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October Your response to all those flashes of inspiration will have not only you wondering where they came from but everyone else as well. Only because you usually keep your ideas to yourself although this time you’re pleased to take the credit. However there’s no need to overreact as any reward that’s to come will be all yours.

♏

Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November If there is something holding you back from realising that you can be creative when you want to be, try not to take any notice if you can and remember any goals you set for yourself can easily be accomplished providing you stay on course and don’t lose focus.

♐

Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December You’re buzzing about the potential for love this month as being single hasn’t been by choice but because you needed to think about what was going on with you. You’re probably eager now to seize any opportunity that presents itself but don’t just consider what was going on with you in the first place.

♑ Capricorn (the Goat): 23 December - 20 January

If you feel like you’re being urged to take a risk and you think you’re not ready to take it, sometimes you just have to move forward in all aspects of what will become you. Just because you don’t have any ambition at the moment there are other ways to achieve success without looking disadvantaged in some way.

♒

Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February It is ok to occasionally cruise about and be more relaxed about life especially when you find it hard to concentrate on anything. You have a very strong belief on doing the right thing and ultimately your return to full productivity will be in evidence.

♓

Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March Your eagerness to share how you feel will not come out as expected when you stumble to find the words about what’s been going on. You might be frustrated and think no one’s listening but stay focused and when the time is right you’ll be understood.

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CLARE CALDWELL

THE ART OF LIVING

The older I get the more complex we seem, especially in our drive to “find happiness”. So what is “happiness”? What gives us this feeling? Close family and friends? Lovers? Material security?

Career success?

We all think, worry, compare and ultimately seek too much. We keep searching for happiness without realising it is all around us in every moment. By being fully present and living in the beauty of the now we can experience a serenity and inner freedom, transcending the reactive clutches of the ego-mind.

A narrow focus on one or even several areas of who we are as a way to feel fulfilled can orbit us into a world where no amount of accolades seem to fill a gnawing sense of deficit. Welcome to the treacherous territory of the ego!

Being a typical Libran, I tend to have a foot in both camps! Maybe some answers lie in the link below. Check out my new website: www.clarecaldwellartworks.com

The compartmentalised ego, while enjoying momentary elevation and satisfaction, correspondingly has an ability to diminish or destroy any sustainable feeling of true happiness. It thrives within us in a climate of anxiety, fear and stress, causing us to constantly compare ourselves with others – consciously or unconsciously – until no amount of validation can satisfy or make us feel truly “happy” for long.

CLARE (CLAUDIE) CALDWELL is a Creative Arts Therapist who runs a small private practice from home. She is Voluntary Team Leader of Creative Therapies at Mercy Hospice Auckland, College Hill where she has worked for the last ten years. She is also a Freelance Artist. PN Enquiries: T: 09 836 3618; M: 021 293 3171; E:clare.e.caldwell@gmail.com

In spite of what we might like about ourselves, how many of us deep down still worry we’re not good enough – not clever enough, talented enough, affluent enough, attractive enough.....the list goes on!!

How do we deal with the manipulations of this voracious ego? Searching to “find happiness” humans clutch at diverse things: religion, celebrity status, alcohol, drugs.

We embrace belief systems from the psychoanalytical to the esoteric.

At this point in my life I’m discovering two quite different belief systems are resonating with me. Many believe to dis-empower the ego’s negativity and our reaction to it, we need to trace the origins of these diminishing imprints of pain and shouting conversations in our heads through a chosen therapy by peeling back layers of personal history, thus understanding in a whole new context, where these “buttons” began and why.

Many others believe the way to dis-empower and quieten the obsessive ego mind is to let go of the eternal desire for meaning and a sense of self. That we keep defining rather than just simply being.

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING ‘GOURMET’ SALT IS NO BETTER FOR YOUR HEALTH THAN TABLE VARIETY, STUDY FINDS Take this advice with a pinch of (Himalayan) salt says local Buteyko Practitioner Glenn White.

A recent article in the UK Guardian reports on a survey claiming that ‘gourmet’ unrefined sea salts are just as unhealthy as regular table salt. This is bad science and here’s why.

I, personally, couldn’t stomach all this grass without a good lick of Himalayan salt.

The survey was conducted specifically with sodium chloride in mind without paying any attention to the actual mineral and trace element composition of natural salt and its positive effects. Specifically it ignored the damaging effects of chemically cleaned sodium chloride versus naturally occurring sodium chloride with all the other naturally occurring mineral components such as potassium, calcium, magnesium and trace elements.

Unrefined sea salt, like human blood, and there is no coincidence here, it is a complex of mineral components. One of these is magnesium, a smooth muscle relaxant, which helps dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

The survey also fails to mention that many modern farming practices have leached the soils of their mineral content much of which has conveniently ended up in the sea.

So, not surprisingly this is one place we will find these lost minerals. Farmers know this and that’s why they provide salt licks for their livestock.

Possible symptoms of a lack of minerals in your diet may include; sleeplessness, nervousness/anxiety, cramp, frequent urination and headaches.

Unless you have been diagnosed with sodium sensitivity then you should not be afraid to cook with un-refined sea salt and use it as a garnish. If it’s good enough for the cows and sheep it’s good enough for you.

Note that as most sea salts do not contain adequate iodine it is important to source this from sea food, kelp or supplements like Lugol’s solution. (GLENN WHITE) PN

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JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH

HYPERTHERMIA - ANOTHER WEAPON IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER WITH THE INCIDENCE OF MANY CANCERS RISING AND ALMOST NO PROGRESS being made in the seemingly endless search for a ‘cure’ it’s not surprising that more and more people are seeking information on innovative new treatment options.

For a number of years I have been following the development of Hyperthermia (the use of heat to attack tumours) and it’s very encouraging to see that even conservative mainstream clinicians speak with some confidence about the benefits of this treatment option.

“Our own clinical experience and the results of numerous published studies are highly encouraging in that the increased use of hyperthermia will improve the quality of life for cancer patients and improve control of cancer recurrences.”

Dr Gerald Sokol, New Hope Cancer Centre Florida “Hyperthermia gives us a method to treat people when there are few other alternatives. It’s an additional form of treatment that can be done in difficult cases usually without serious side effects or complications.”

Dr Steven Stroup, Centennial Hospital Nashville.

The concept of using heat for healing (hyperthermia) is certainly not new. It was first mentioned in the early civilisations of ancient Egypt, where baths in hot desert sand were prescribed for the ill (hyperthermia effect). Then the doctors of ancient Greece started consistently using this therapeutic approach and named it ‘overheating’ (in Greek: hyperthermia). Parmenides (Greek Physician 540-480 BC) said “Give me a chance to create a fever and I will cure any disease” The use of hyperthermia in the modern age has been found to be of significant benefit as a treatment option of Cancer. The reason for this is that tumour cells are extremely sensitive to heat. American Surgeon William Coley (1862-1936) had observed that cancer patients often recovered completely if they had suffered a severe post-surgical infection of the wound accompanied by high fever. Dr Coley hypothesised that the increase in body temperature not only mobilised the body’s immune system, thus fighting off the infection, but also destroyed the tumour at the same time.

There is now a much greater understanding of how hyperthermia can be beneficial in the treatment of cancer. Unlike healthy tissue, cancer cells cannot easily divert heat because of their primitive blood supply. This has to do with the fact that tumour cells have a different metabolism and their vascular supply lines are different compared to those of healthy cells. When hyperthermia is used, cancer cells experience a build-up in heat, which leads to an inadequate supply of oxygen and a depletion of nutrients in the tumour and this can lead to the death of the cancer cells. Furthermore, results from studies show that cancer cells form a special type of protein structure on the surface of the cells when heated to a temperature of approximately 42° C, which does not happen with healthy cells. This effect is activated using hyperthermia. These protein structures – also known as heat shock proteins – are recognised by the body’s immune system as foreign substances, thus enabling the immune system to attack them.

BUBBLES THAT DON’T COST THE EARTH Celebrating Earth Day – 22 April For fizzy drink fans, a SodaStream machine provides an endless supply of sparkling water and soft drinks that won’t cost the earth – and we’re not just talking about dollars. SodaStream recently received International Carbon Footprint Certification, proving that a SodaStream machine can significantly reduce your carbon footprint by minimising the harmful impact plastic bottles and cans have on our environment.

The university hospital in Erlangen published a study on the effects of regional deep hyperthermia in patients with cancer of the bladder. They showed that a tendency toward invasive growth and metastases was considerably reduced by hyperthermia.

The study showed that there was a direct connection between the frequency of hyperthermia treatment and the survival rate: the more often patients received overheating treatment, the better they became. A number of studies in recent years have shown that hyperthermia is especially effective when used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

TWO MAIN FORMS OF HYPERTHERMIA TREATMENT ARE: • Whole body hyperthermia where heat is applied to the entire body.

Whole Body Hyperthermia is often used when cancers have metastasised.

• Local or Regional hyperthermia – In this case the heating is concentrated on the affected organ or tissue.

Until recently hyperthermia has not been available as a treatment option in our part of the world. Patients seeking hyperthermia have had to travel to Europe (some of the best clinics are in Germany). I was very excited to learn recently that Whole Body hyperthermia is now available at the National Institute of Integrative Medicine in Melbourne www.niim.com.au, the Clinic is run by Professor Avni Sali a leader in the field of Integrative Medicine. I have met Professor Sali-a wonderful man (you can read about him on the website). For me hyperthermia would be a primary intervention if I had a diagnosis of Cancer. At the Niim Clinic, hyperthermia treatments can be combined with other treatments such as Intravenous Vitamin C. (JOHN APPLETON) PN “When in doubt, try nutrition first.” Roger J. Williams, Ph.D. Professor of Chemistry 1893-1988 discoverer of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5).

Worldwide, over 340 billion bottles and cans are not recycled every year, with one bottle taking 450 years to decompose.* A SodaStream can help reduce the number of bottles and cans that we use in the first place!

In celebration of Earth Day - 22 April – Ponsonby News has a SodaStream Fizz machine to give away to one lucky reader who wants to do their bit for our earth. To enter, visit Ponsonby News on Facebook and answer the question “how do you do your bit for the planet?” PN www.facebook.com/SodaStreamNZ www.facebook.com/PonsonbyNews *Independent SodaStream research.

APPLETON ASSOCIATES T: 09 489 9362 www.johnappleton.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

DISCOUNTED MASSAGE RATES UNTIL END OF APRIL AT RETURN TO FORM Wellbeing clinic Return to Form is celebrating the arrival of its new massage therapist with special prices on massages for the month of April.

Clinic owner and physiotherapist, Zee Sharif, says she and her team are excited to welcome qualified massage therapist Bryce Hatton to the practice.

“Bryce has practised massage since 2003 and is also a teacher at the New Zealand College of Massage Therapy. Bryce is a bit of a glutton for punishment. Not only has he completed a certificate in relaxation massage, he also has a diploma of therapeutic massage, diploma of massage and clinical sports therapy and a bachelor of health studies (massage and neuromuscular therapy). And he’s recently trained in oncology massage.

“This means he’s well qualified to meet any client’s massage needs,” says Zee. Whether you’re interested in a massage to help you relax and unwind, work on a sports injury, or you’re suffering from any sort of pain – Bryce will tailor his massage to suit your requirements and ensure you receive the best possible soft tissue therapy treatment.

So what are you waiting for?

Book a massage today and take advantage of these great rates.

FULL PRICE INTRODUCTORY PRICE 90 minutes $115.00 $80.50 70 minutes $95.00 $66.50 45 minutes $65.00 $45.50 30 minutes $50.00 $35.00 *Introductory prices are valid until the end of April 2012.

RETURN TO FORM welcomes qualified massage therapist BRYCE HATTON.

Win a free massage or one of 10 free pilates classes at Return to Form.

April is the month of celebration at wellbeing clinic Return to Form. Not only is the team celebrating the arrival of new massage therapist, Bryce Hatton, it’s also the clinic’s first birthday.

ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE SEEN

To mark the occasion any client who visits the clinic during April can enter the draw to win a free massage or one of 10 free pilates classes. Just visit Return to Form at the Three Lamps end of Ponsonby Road for an appointment and drop your details in the box at reception. The winner will be drawn and contacted on Tuesday 1 May. PN RETURN TO FORM, Level 1, 334 Ponsonby Road T: 09 551 4460 info@returntoform.com

PN

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PLANET AYURVEDA: ASK DOCTOR AJIT

Q:

I have just been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. My doctor tells me that I can manage my blood sugar with diet and exercise. I know you are big on promoting a healthy diet and lifestyle so wonder if you have any advice? (NAME AND ADDRESS WITHHELD)

A:

You are not alone. It is estimated by Diabetes New Zealand that almost 7% of the population are affected by this disease, making it an endemic problem in the community. Thanks to a great deal of community education we all know about Diabetes, its causes and symptoms. However, what we don’t understand is why, despite the millions of dollars spent on research and community education, are the incidences of this disease increasing?

Diabetes mellitus is called “Madhumeha” in Ayurveda, which literally means “excessive urine with a sweet taste like honey.” When the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin, it inhibits the cellular uptake of glucose, causing sugar levels to rise in the body to a point where the excess glucose must be excreted, giving the urine a sweet taste.

In Ayurveda, Type 2 Diabetes is considered to be an imbalance of the Kapha Dosha, one of the bodily intelligences that govern all metabolic functions. A combination of the elements of earth and water, Kapha provides lubrication and support. It gives strength and stability, both physically and psychologically. It enhances resistance to disease and promotes the healing process. It also has a sweet taste. However, when the earth and water elements accumulate in the body, the Kapha Dosha can become imbalanced and lead to diseases such as Diabetes.

In the case of Type 2 Diabetes the buildup of Kapha in the body manifests in the production of excess mucous, one of its principle functions. This excess mucous not only impedes the digestive ability of the stomach (meaning food is not sufficiently metabolised) but can also block capillaries that release secretions, particularly the Langerhans islets in the pancreas responsible for the production of insulin. Also because of its sweet taste, a Kapha accumulation increases the amount of sweetness in the body which places pressure on the pancreas to produce more insulin.

All Ayurvedic treatments are based on the principle of introducing lifestyle and diet changes to bring the aggravated Dosha back into balance while avoiding things that can cause further aggravation. For the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes and other Kapha type diseases, Ayurveda recommends the following: DIET Avoid: Yeasted Breads, cheese, cold meats, muffins and cakes, chocolate, sweets, carbonated drinks, fruit juice, potatoes, kumara, pumpkin, potato and corn crisps, tinned and processed foods, excessive water intake, ice cream, tomato or soya sauce, peanut or almond butter, microwaved foods, vegemite, eating on the run or late at night, and excessive or emotional eating.

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Eat more: Green vegetables, black gram, channa flour pancakes with ajwain, bitter gourd (Karela), long grain brown basmati rice, mung dhal, garlic, onion, curry leaves, hing, paneer cheese, unripe banana, fresh almonds, honey, turmeric, fenugreek and cinnamon.

Lifestyle: • Start each day by scraping your tongue • Drink a cup of hot water each morning with 1/4 tsp of honey, 1 tsp of fresh grated ginger, 1 tsp of lemon juice and 1/2 tsp each of Karela or Fenugreek powder; • Breakfast on either Channa flour pancakes (made from black gram) with onion, ajwain and turmeric or a combination of millet, buckwheat and barley flour pancakes with cinnamon and cardamom; • Eat a warm lunch, such as steamed or stir fried vegetables or soup; • Eat warm, cooked foods for dinner, including at least three meals of kitchari (made from mung dahl and rice). Avoid all meats, except for fish a couple of times a week if you wish; • Use more ginger, garlic, black pepper, fenugreek and turmeric in your cooking as all these spice have hypo-glycaemic properties; • Every morning, apply warm medicated sesame oil to each nostril; • Daily self massage with warm sesame oil or Planet Ayurveda’s Kapha Oil; • Take a brisk 30 minute walk at least three times a week; • Regular De-tox: Ayurveda offers a unique de-toxification programme called Panchkarma, which releases waste products from the body, collects and removes them gently, leaving the body cleansed and balanced.

An idea that is gaining currency in allopathic medicine is that of genetic disposition.

It believes that if our parents suffer from diseases like diabetes, heart attack or bowel cancer, then it is inevitable that we will suffer from them too. However, Ayurveda’s unique insight into Prakruti, our individual body type, challenges this belief and gives us a better understanding of how imbalances in our body can lead to diseases like Diabetes.

Ayurveda also teaches that these imbalances can be addressed by means of diet and lifestyle to return your body to a balanced and healthy state. The profound promise of Ayurveda is that through changes to diet and lifestyle, not only can we prevent disease but live a long, healthy life in balance and harmony. (DR AJIT) PN PLANET AYURVEDA, 41 Gillies Avenue T: 09 522 5390 www.planetayurveda.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY THE LATEST IN ORGANIC SKINCARE: SOME OF MY FAVOURITE DISCOVERIES When I was asked recently what my beauty philosophy is, the answer was simple: if you wouldn’t put it in your mouth, then don’t put it on your skin! I’m all about keeping skincare as clean and organic as possible, and luckily in 2012 there are a plethora of great organic brands out there that are high performance too.

One of my new favourites is New Zealand organic skincare brand Antipodes, who are going great guns internationally and have some seriously beautiful new releases that I’ve been playing with. Call me kooky, but one of my favourite parts of any facial is the cleansing process, which I could happily lie and have done to me all day!

I’m incredibly fussy when it comes to cleansers for home use as well, and really like to take my time giving my skin a good massage and then compressing and wiping with a fresh muslin cloth.

With all of the above in mind, it takes a lot for a cleanser to really impress me, but one that seriously has is Antipodes Juliet Skin Brightening Gel Cleanser.

The lovely Juliet is a high performance gel cleanser that is perfect for both normal and oily skin conditions. She helps balance oil production, deep cleanse and exfoliate congested skin, as well as helping with the healing of skin blemishes. Not only does Juliet smell incredible, but she also works pretty damn hard - containing scientifically validated Vinanza Grape, which is packed with antioxidants to help you achieve a light, bright and healthy complexion. Vinanza Performance Plus grapeseeds contain up to double the levels of polyphonic antioxidant compounds compared to grapeseeds grown anywhere else in the world, whilst another ingredient, Vinanza Kiwi is an antioxidant rich extract from kiwifruit grown in New Zealand. Kiwifruit are packed full of healthy nutrients, particularly the skins that have high levels of antioxidants to protect them from oxidative stress. Vinanza Kiwi Extract is extracted from the skins of kiwifruit and helps gently exfoliate the skin.

It’s great when used in conjunction with their Organic Apostle Skin-Brightening & Tone-Correcting Serum, which is a delicious new water-based corrective serum that helps target pigmentation, brightens your skin and restores even tone. It is packed with revolutionary bioactive ingredients taken straight from nature, and has been clinically shown to decrease trans-epidermal water loss, leaving skin moist and hydrated. It’s also shown to decrease the melanin production which causes freckling and pigmentation, and reduce redness or facial flushing. This baby is going to be a regular in my routine over winter when the weather can really have an impact on my sensitive skin.

Ponsonby beauty spot Persona is the local stockist of Janesce, a skincare range crafted exclusively from herbs and flowers. Persona’s Kate Bruton is a huge fan of the brand and tells me that it’s getting some great results for her clients. The therapeutic value of plants has been known for centuries. Plants formed the basis of our skincare products

for years and not until industrial revolution did the use of cheap synthetics and mineral oils become popular. Plants have been shown to contain an amazing array of beneficial phyto-chemicals, and the Janesce range - grown organically on a property in the Adelaide Hills in South Australia – is rich in the good stuff.

Kate tells me that Janesce was created by Janice Sarre Smith, who is a naturopath and nutritionist. “She is a highly respected practitioner with a reputation for being able to promote healthy beautiful skin,” says Kate, whose favourite product from the range is “the Perfecting Gel, it can be used by everyone!” A light, rose -fresh humidifying gel for dehydrated, sun damaged or mature skin, it reportedly gives fantastic results, is an extreme hydrator and excellent for plumping up fine lines and wrinkles. “It also is an excellent eye gel, refreshing and soothing around the eye.”

Lastly, when it comes to bodycare products, I’ve been lucky enough to be given some goodies to trial by Kio Kio, a range of “innovative, sumptuous, bio-active natural bodycare” that was created right here in New Zealand.

It was the first I’d heard of the lush range, which was launched in America in 2010. It was instantly selected to join the carefully edited beauty offerings at the iconic Californian retail destination, Fred Segal (one of my absolute favourite LA shopping spots) and also in the super cool lifestyle store Anthropologie.

Developed by Fiona Terry, a design industry professional and her pharmacist business partner, Liz Young, the Kio Kio range includes fragrant and soothing rich body creams, body lotions and soft SLS free body washes, refreshing, gently perfumed body mists, nourishing hand creams and triple milled creamy soaps. Each part of the range, in its chic, colour-coded package, has a South Pacific -inspired fragrance that is fresh, clean and uplifting - Pacific Tiare & Ti Kauka; Rainforest & Koromiko; Frangipani & Puriri and Citrus Petal and Tarata.

At every step of the production process the partners have stuck to their mission statement to create a range this is “both green and gorgeous”. Biocompatible, organic, plant-based, anti-oxidant rich and sustainably sourced, Kio Kio only utilises wild-harvested New Zealand botanicals and mineral-rich water drawn from ancient aquifers. They also contain no parabens, mineral oils, petrochemicals, silicones, artificial colours or additives such as PEG, DEA, TEA and even the packaging is uncoated, FSC certified and uses water-based dyes.

All production is done within New Zealand too, which gets a big tick in my book.

Green whilst still staying pretty damn luxe, the Rainforest & Koromiko body lotion that I’ve been using is a delicate mix that will work for pretty much every skin type. Great for those that want a light, non-greasy formula – you can dress pretty much straight away after application – it is also lightly fragranced, but not so much that it will compete with your own perfume should you feel the need to add it on top. Pretty gorgeous really!

(HELENE RAVLICH) PN

NEW POTS OF GOODNESS FROM TASTY POT Tasty Pot have two delicious new soups available at Nosh and local supermarkets. Green Goodness has broccoli, spinach, courgette and parsley, while Taste of India includes free range chicken, green beans and Indian spices. www.tastypot.co.nz

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

MALONEY’S BARBER SHOP – MAKE THE CUT Maloney’s Barber Shop is turning nine this month. If you’re a man, and you have hair, here are some things you need to know – and some reasons to come in, or come back: FREE STUFF Come in for a cut during our birthday week (16 – 21 April) and get something for nothing: loads of free American Crew products, a daily draw for one of our cool Otis Frizzell designed t-shirts, plus free advice on parenting, relationships, how our national sports teams could improve, and how the country should be run.

RELAX IN THE MAN CAVE Maloney’s has a really inviting atmosphere which makes new clients welcome from their first visit. Catch up on the latest magazines, check out our ever-changing memorabilia and vintage movie posters, use our free wi-fi and just enjoy time out from the office. We’re located just down from Les Mills Gym on Victoria Street West.

SUPPORT LOCAL The team’s had a long connection with Ponsonby – Julian started working in the area in October 1994, the same month as the Gluepot Pub closed its doors. Clients who started off as Ponsonby Primary kids back then are now bringing in their own children for cuts. And a special mention has to go to local bookworm Graham Beattie beattiesbookblog.blogspot.co.nz, Maloney’s first ever customer back in April 2003, and still in every three weeks for a trim.

SHOOT THE BREEZE Our team of expert conversationalists (i.e. know-it-alls) are highly skilled in a wide variety of subjects, such as end of the world scenarios, rugby league and union, swing dancing, top picks at the races, holidays in Brazil and softbait fishing.

HELPING HAND We’re proud to be involved in sponsorship of some great locals like Ponsonby Rugby League Club, Grafton United Cricket Club (both based in Victoria Park), Bear Week at Urge Bar and Les Mills Kids Club. We’ve also raised funds for Movember, Westpac Helicopter Trust and the recent 22 February campaign on the anniversary of the Christchurch earthquake.

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CALL US LOYAL While we love to welcome new clients through the door every day, we’re continuously blown away by our loyal regulars, who are the foundation of our ongoing success. And our team is pretty solid too – Roger and Sue are both in their sixth year at Maloney’s and Calab (new kid on the block) is fast becoming a key member of the team. We owe much of our reputation to these outstanding barbers.

CHANGE IS GOOD Like Auckland, Maloney’s has grown and changed enormously in its nine years. We’ve evolved from a one-man band to a buzzing shop with four chairs. You can count on us to be up to date with the latest haircuts ranging from the conservative to the cool looks from the street. Looking to the future, we’ve got our eye out for a fifth person to join the team. PN Stay in the know by joining us on Facebook: facebook.com/maloneysbarbershop

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LANI LOPEZ: ON HEALTH

AUTUMNAL IMMUNITY SEASONAL CHANGE IS A TIME OF CHALLENGE FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING and autumn especially so. The warmth is dwindling, fresh fruit and veges are in short supply and our body clocks are adjusting to the end of daylight saving. You’ve probably heard friends and family coughing already.

Today I heard a news story promoting this year’s influenza vaccine, a jab that over one million New Zealander’s chose last year. All this means that it is time to build up our immunity. I’ll show you how in two articles, starting with a fundamental building block of immunity and wellbeing: Sleep.

Exercise. Get out and exercise every day, even a 15 minute walk helps counteract stress, tiring both body and mind and encourages deep breathing.

Sleepy time. Go to bed when you feel tired, it’s ok to leave chores undone, sleep is your priority.

Up and at ‘em. Get out of bed when you wake. This may be hard at first but soon sets up a healthy sleep pattern.

SLEEP ESSENTIAL TO IMMUNITY We’ve all suffered from insufficient sleep, with effects like fatigue, headaches and stress. But lack of sleep has serious consequences being associated with heart disease, high blood pressure, decreased immunity, stroke, diabetes, obesity, loss of libido and depression. US research estimates that one in five adults have difficulty sleeping.

AVOIDABLE ERRORS • No alcohol, coffee, tea or other stimulants for four to six hours before bed.

• No smoking before bed or at night.

• No big or spicy meals in the two hours before bed.

• No strenuous exercise just before bed.

• Don’t stay sleepless in bed, get up and repeat your sleepy schedule.

• Do not work or watch television.

These are sleep’s most common enemies: Alcohol, drugs, medication, illness, sleep apnoea, bladder and bowel trouble (night -time toilet need), shift work, noise, sleepwalking, stress. If you have problems sleeping on more than three nights a week in a month, you are considered to have chronic insomnia. Sleep is crucial to wellbeing and there are some simple steps you can take to help.

HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? Sleep time runs from when we close our eyes and try to sleep, until we wake and get up in the morning. About half the time is spent in lighter sleep stages. It is normal to take 30-45 minutes to fall into deep sleep. Different people do need different amounts of sleep. On average: Children over five sleep eight to nine hours a night, adults seven hours a night, reducing as we age to as few as five to six hours by age 80.

SLEEPY ‘TO DO’S’ – TO SLEEP SOUNDLY AND WAKE LESS OFTEN YOU NEED: A sleep sanctuary. Bedroom is for sleep and loving only. No TV, laptops, iPads or any gadgets, these prevent our brains relaxing into slower sleep ready cycles.

YOU ARE WORTH IT We are fortunate to have many resources to help with good rest. Here in Ponsonby News you find yoga, pilates, massage therapy, personal training, gyms, fresh food and Buteyko breathing, all supporting sound sleep. So take action, use the support and these lists, but be patient. You are changing habits which takes time. The pay-off is a winter of wellbeing. PN

Sleepy staging. Keep your bedroom quiet, dark and at a comfy temperature. If you don’t have black-out curtains, use an eye mask/blindfold.

Sleepy schedule. Establish a restful routine to go through nightly before bed. Use as deliberate relaxation, slow your breathing and calm your mind. Listing what you need to do tomorrow helps put your mind at rest, a few long slow stretches are relaxing.

LANI LOPEZ Adv. Dip Nat, BHSc. founder of lanilopez.com is our favourite naturopath.

Discuss health with her at facebook.com/lanilopezcom

CHIROPRACTIC - WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE AIMS TO RESTORE AND MAINTAIN THE PROPER relationship between the spine and the nerve system. Sometimes the bones of the spine, which are designed to protect the spinal cord and nerves, move out of place causing interference to the nerve’s ability to carry messages from the brain to the rest of the body.

This can present itself as: acute or chronic pain, muscles that just won’t let go (even after a good massage), tingling down arms and hands or into the legs and feet, numbness, headaches, or even a general uneasiness of “just not feeling right”.

Advanced Spine and Joint Clinic are the back experts! They have a “no wait” policy, as they appreciate people lead busy lives.

“I’ve suffered from lower back pain and stiffness for the past 15 years!

After seeing Kimberley for an intensive month’s worth of care, I’ve never felt better! I bounce out of bed in the mornings and enjoy my running and squash now (thinking I’d have to give both up)… and I no longer get the weekly headaches that I thought were “normal”! ” - Lynette C. (age 56) “I originally saw Kimberley for upper back pain and shooting pain down my left arm which occurred after extensive computer work. After a series of adjustments I no longer get the pain down my arm or have the upper back pain. I now choose to see Kimberley once a month for maintenance to keep the aches and pains at bay. Never felt better!” - Doug N. (age 32) PN ADVANCED SPINE AND JOINT CLINIC, Level 7, 43 High Street, T: 09 358 5226

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DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE (NEAR HAMILTON!) BUSY. I HAVE BEEN SO BUSY LATELY, IT IS LUCKY I DO NOT HAVE TO STOP TO breathe, as I would not be here. I have not seen Armin for three weeks! But, my saving grace is that I felt guilty, yes me, so I decided as I was so short of the one thing we all have so little of, which is time, that I would head off to see Lloyd Shaw at Vibra Train, as even I can manage 10 minutes every other day.

I walked in, and tried to sneak past Lloyd, but he is too onto me for that.

I hopped onto the vibration training machine, and it was honestly like a duck to water.

Just the 10 minutes, from start to finish is all it takes, and I feel so much better. Not that Armin and Anytime Fitness does not make me feel the same, but there is very little exercise you can do in 10 minutes I swear, that has the same results.

Lloyd has installed new charts, the largest being one of himself on a machine which did make me laugh, and I had to ask why anyone would want to put an enormous poster of themselves up on a wall, because personally, I could not think of anything worse! He of course being his usual, gobby self, explained he also had his house covered in mirrors (seriously hope this is not true!). He has also lost a lot of weight, not that he needed to, and I know from being a regular that his diet is crap and consists of a lot of takeaways, but those machines make you really work out.

Now, let me reiterate, these are not the same machines that are advertised on the television that you can send away for and fold flat under the bed. They are just play things. Lloyd’s machines are heavy, industrial machines that cannot be folded up and moved anywhere. He has explained to me that not everyone can do it, which surprised me, as any exercise I do, a child that has just learnt to walk can attempt, but not this, and I did feel mighty special!

I was also surprised at how many people have now taken up vibration training, since I last came. I have never had to wait or queue for a machine, as there are plenty there, and as it is only 10 minutes, they become free all the time. But what did make my heart soften (and believe me where Lloyd is concerned this is a rarity), is that Lloyd gifted one of the machines he personally built to the Manurewa Marae, to help improve the health of the elderly, obese and disabled.

He told me the positive outcomes have been tremendous for the people, the majority Maori, who have problems with diabetes, poor blood circulation and limb cramps and the vibration training helps improve strength, core stability and weight loss.

The training programme is every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am until 12.30pm and the average attendance is 30 - 35 people per session, and the average attendance per week is 90 - 100, so that is a lot of people who are getting the benefits of vibration training, and this in turn improves health. This saves the government an awful lot of money in medical treatment, as people are actually getting out there and realising they have to be pro active if they want to improve their health and live longer.

Now, these people would not be the ones you would normally expect to take up exercise, but the fact that it is free has encouraged many. I can only express what a wonderful thing it is that Lloyd has done. Nobody asked him to, and there is no monetary benefit to him, but as he explained to me, he is really worried about obesity in New Zealand, in all age groups, and thought this would be a nice way to help those less fortunate than himself.

Now, as you all know, Lloyd and I lock horns constantly, about everything, from me not changing in the changing rooms provided as I cannot be bothered, and just do it in front of everyone, to me now having to take my shoes off at the door, as he does not want mud traipsed through the area in winter, but I admire what he has done tremendously.

It is such a kind thing for someone to do without any prompting, and I have seen more and more people at Vibra Train this month who are recovering from all sorts of accidents, where they want to exercise, but a gym is too strenuous.

So, hats off to Lloyd Shaw, and from the woman who was voted the second most trusted in New Zealand last year out of 100, I challenge you to take the test, you will not be disappointed. The flabby bits start turning to muscle, and you can work on specific areas that you would like toned.

Vibra Train’s opening hours are long, 6.30am to 10pm weekdays and shorter hours on weekends, so from the woman who has a million excuses for not wanting to exercise, this time, I have none. (DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET) PN VIBRA TRAIN, 7/192 Victoria Street West T: 09 309 6874 www.vibratrain.com ANYTIME FITNESS, 100 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 5488 www.anytimefitness.co.nz

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AUCKLAND COUNCIL BACKS ACTION ON MAUI’S DOLPHINS The government decision to consider future measures to protect Maui’s dolphins has been welcomed by Auckland Council. A new study is pointing to a decline in numbers of the critically endangered species.

The Mayor and Environment and Sustainability Forum Chair, Councillor Wayne Walker, wrote to the government earlier this month regarding the continued threat to the species. They called on the government to take every possible action to urgently reassess and remedy any outstanding risks to the dolphin. In the letter, they advocated for a southern extension of the protection zone for the dolphins.

Councillor Walker says Auckland Council has begun to make its own commitment to the species through direct reference to Maui’s dolphin protection in the Auckland Plan. It will also be a focus of the review of coastal provisions in its formative Unitary Plan.

“With a relatively short lifespan, late sexual maturity and a slow reproductive rate of a calf born every three years on average, population recovery for the remaining 20 or so breeding females would be slow even without any further pressure,” says Councillor Walker. “The loss of a single female dolphin is an utter tragedy and is unacceptable.”

The Mayor says Maui’s dolphin is of great relevance to Auckland, where the heart of its population lives. “These dolphins are particularly at risk of extinction unless every measure is taken to halt their decline by eliminating human-related risks,” says Len Brown. ”Maui’s dolphins are critically endangered and are the rarest marine dolphin on Earth.

“Guardianship of these animals is an important responsibility for Auckland Council, our iwi partners and the people of Auckland region.” PN

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING PETA MATHIAS TO WITNESS ISLAND MIRACLE Kiwi fundraising restores sight to the blind.

Specsavers’ charity ambassador Peta Mathias is leading the charge to bring sight to the blind in the Pacific. The television celebrity chef is attending a Specsaverssupported surgical outreach in Fiji with The Fred Hollows Foundation next week. There she plans to see first-hand how the work of The Foundation helps to change lives and is urging Kiwis to support this incredible cause.

“I have travelled to all kinds of amazing places in my career but having a chance to go and see the work that The Foundation and Specsavers are doing together in the Pacific is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” she said.

“Ordinary Kiwis have helped Specsavers raise over $91,000 in the past year to fund The Foundation’s clinics to restore sight to the blind. Restore sight to the blind! This is something I feel I need to see to believe. We’re talking about hundreds of people who are blinded by conditions that in New Zealand would be cured with a simple operation.

“People come from miles around to attend the clinics and many of them have been blind for years. They lie on the table, the surgeon spends about twenty minutes working on their eyes and overnight they can see! Just like that! It blows me away.”

Peta is now calling on Kiwis to help reach the $100,000 fundraising milestone by going into a Specsavers store and making a donation. “Specsavers wants to reach $100,000 by the middle of the year and I really want to help make that happen,” Peta said.

“It can cost as little as $25 to give someone back their sight. That’s such a tiny amount.

I’m sure I spend at least that much on cups of coffee in a single week! When I think of how many people would be able to see again if I just put my coffee budget into the Specsavers fundraising tin, it really puts things into perspective.”

The $91,000 raised by Specsavers stores nationwide in the past year is enough to pay for surgery to restore sight to over 3,600 people. But there are still more than 80,000 Pacific Islanders suffering from preventable blindness who are in need of surgery.

Peta will follow patients on their journey to sight when she visits Ba in Fiji with a surgical outreach team from the Pacific Eye Institute in Suva, a training initiative of The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ. Ba, a town on the west coast of Fiji’s largest island, Viti Levu, has no eye doctor and there is a large backlog of blind cataract patients.

PETA MATHIAS, Specsavers charity ambassador, gets set to go on Fred Hollows Foundation outreach to Fiji.

“It’s a privilege to be able to see the work that The Foundation does and the impact it has on the local communities. When someone receives their sight back, the happiness and gratitude flows from that individual right throughout the whole community – it’s a once in a lifetime thing to be a part of,” says Peta.

The team will perform eyesight testing and eye surgeries which are expected to restore sight to over 100 needlessly blind and vision impaired people.

Debbie Thomson, Marketing Director at The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ, says the amount raised so far will definitely be put to good use, allowing The Foundation to expand their existing outreach programme. “Access to eye care is almost non-existent in many parts of the Pacific. The money raised will give us the opportunity to get into more remote areas and help even more people which is just amazing.” PN Donations to the work of The Fred Hollows Foundation can be made at all 53 Specsavers stores or on The Fred Hollows Foundation website www.hollows.org.nz

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BILLY HARRIS: KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY CHARLOTTE SINNEMA - A PICTURE OF POSITIVITY

DON NEILL

You’ve seen the movie “Sliding Doors”, where the story splits in two and follows the leading lady’s life in the two directions it would have taken had she caught/not caught the train.

Now think of Charlotte Sinnema from Ponsonby. In one scenario she is born with hip dysplasia, has multiple visits to hospital for operations, and meets artist Mark Olsen. In the other she is born without the condition, doesn’t go to hospital and joins the Marines.

For that reason, all the people who have one of Charlotte’s works hanging on their wall are at least able to look at the positive side of the 11 year old’s challenging condition.

At just 20 months, Charlotte went to Starship Hospital, where she had osteotomies on her pelvis and femur, an operation which involved breaking both the bones to reposition her hip joint. She went on to have nine operations, be in a cast five times totalling nearly a year, and make many visits to Starship.

Charlotte’s periods in a hip spica cast presented many challenges. The cast stretched from waist to ankle on her right side, and down to her thigh on the left. The cast on each leg was joined by a supporting rod to keep everything immobile, which made Charlotte look like a capital letter A. She was confined for long periods to a wheelchair, and to keep her comfortable at night, frequently needed to be flipped over like a pancake.

It was while Charlotte was having her third stay in hospital, at age five, that Mark Olsen came in to see his daughter on the same ward. He was moved by Charlotte’s situation, so after she’d returned home, he delivered a painting of a giraffe he did specially for her. The seed wasn’t exactly sown that day because Charlotte was already dabbling in drawing and painting, but it was certainly watered, because Olsen learned of her interest in painting and offered to give her lessons.

Since then, Charlotte has been busy. Prodigious even. She’s painted 27 pieces, and auctioned 18 of them at two separate exhibitions of portraits – “Lottie Dot”, named after one of the paintings, and “Borboleta”, with a butterfly theme – which Charlotte largely organised herself with support from helpers. She’s been commissioned to paint another two, which she sold. She donated the proceeds from one painting from each exhibition to Starship.

CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW ‘Demolition’ by Sally Sutton, illustrated by Brian Lovelock.

Walker Books, $31.99.

The award-winning duo author/illustrator Sally Sutton and Brian Lovelock, who brought us the crunch, crash, thump of Roadworks in 2008, have returned with Demolition, a perfect introduction to reading for machine-mad kids. An excavator chomps through a derelict building to make way for a children’s playground.

The book has great rhyming text with a chanting quality, and a recycling theme.

The bright red and yellow illustrations show the huge machines at work and a pictorial glossary explains what each one can do.

A book to inspire, entertain and educate. PN DOROTHY BUTLER CHILDREN’S BOOKSHOP, 1 Jervois Road T: 09 376 7283 www.childrensbookshop.co.nz

The paintings burst with colour and personality, and though Charlotte’s coy on how much they sold for, suffice to say bidding gets competitive. Most of the proceeds have gone into buying canvases, paints, brushes and all the other equipment Charlotte requires to pursue her passion.

There’s another exhibition in the works, this time with a sporting theme. Charlotte’s currently painting the twelve new works, not one at a time as you might expect but simultaneously, and she explains that with 15 to 20 layers of paint on each canvas, you can save a lot of time by working on other paintings while waiting for the paint to dry.

As the exhibition date nears, Charlotte says, the living room will be chaos, a massive jumble of easels, canvases and paintings gradually coming to life. All her spare time will go into making sure not only that the paintings are finished, but are as good as she can make them. But most of the time Charlotte finds time for pursuits away from her paint brushes.

She’s done Irish dancing and ballet, on the physio’s advice, since age seven. She played netball for two years and dabbled in soccer. She enjoys reading, and among her favourites are Roald Dahl stories and the Harry Potter series. And she’s a founding member of Hip Hooray, an organisation started up by Anna Williams, who had hip dysplasia herself, for families of children like Charlotte to get together and share their experiences.

So if this was a movie about Charlotte Sinnema, how does it turn out? Does she continue painting, but just as a hobby, perhaps teaching painting to kids on Sunday mornings? Or does her work get seen by Prince Harry and she gets asked to do portraits of the Royal corgis?

Nobody knows, but anyone who’s met Charlotte and seen her paintings will be eager to find out.

If you’d like to see photos of Charlotte and her paintings, go to www.charlottesinnema.com (BILLY HARRIS) PN Do you know of any kids in the community who are doing great things?

If so, email Billy on billyharris2000@hotmail.com with your suggestion.

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FUTURE GENERATION DYSLEXIA AND EDUCATION: A NEW APPROACH FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE CHILDREN STRUGGLING AT SCHOOL, Don Neill’s story may be all too familiar. By the age of six Don’s bright, sociable and capable child was having extreme difficulties with reading and writing – with little support at school. Eventually, dyslexia was diagnosed. Dyslexia is a Specific Language Disability, characterised by difficulties with accurate or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and reading skills.

The lack of support for his son so affected Don that he undertook a complete career change, becoming a qualified school teacher. Working in primary schools provided Don with further evidence of the level of dyslexia amongst young students. This, combined with ongoing difficulties in resolving his child’s learning needs, led Don

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to move his family to California where he enrolled his child in Chartwell School, a private school for children with dyslexia. Chartwell School’s teaching programme is based on a highly-regarded, successful method known as the Slingerland approach – a structured, multi-sensory approach developed for dyslexic students.

Seeing the huge advancements in his son’s learning, Don went on to achieve Slingerland certification, and undertook a three-year teaching role at Chartwell.

Now back in New Zealand, he has seen some developments here, but believes the Slingerland Approach and his hands-on experience fills an important need for students, parents and schools. To facilitate this Don has started The Learning Key, a practice focusing on working with students with dyslexia. “These children need highly structured, focused teaching that addresses their specific needs,” he explains. “It is essential that these children understand their strengths and are given the opportunity to reach their potential.” PN THE LEARNING KEY, 22A Jervois Road M: 021 557 357 www.thelearningkey.org

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FUTURE GENERATION MOTAT CALLS ON CRAZY CONTRAPTIONS FOR CURIOUS KIDS Did you know that all complex mechanisms are created from combinations of six simple machines?

From 6 - 22 April MOTAT is offering a holiday experience that will get kids to put on their inventing caps and learn how to create crazy contraptions using levers, wedges, inclined planes, pulleys, screws, wheels and axles.

With a flying fox showcasing the magic of pulleys, incredible catapults demonstrating the mechanics of levers and a railway hand jigger making its way around MOTAT, kids and parents alike will have fun learning how simple machines are used in everyday life.

And have you ever heard of a Rube Goldberg machine? It’s when a very simple task is performed by a machine in an overly complicated way, like the contraption in the popular board game Mousetrap. MOTAT will be giving kids and parents the chance to help create one, using simple machines to make Crazy Contraptions! Get there!

AETHER AND IRON Channelling Victorian science-fiction, MOTAT will transform into a scene from an alternate history and invite visitors to experience ‘tomorrow as it used to be’ on Saturday 28 April at ‘Aether & Iron’.

MOTAT invites steam punks, cos-players and theatre and social history aficionados for a unique experience that is not to be missed, with kids and adults alike having a blast as they take part in the fascinating activities and admire the quirky costumes.

Other highlights will include LARPing (Live Action Role Play) workshops, costume display and steam train rides, all in the name of Victorian science-fiction.

Visitors to Aether & Iron are encouraged to come in costume to enter the fashion show, so start preparing for this outrageously fun day out soon! PN MOTAT, 805 Great North Road, Western Springs T: 09 815 5800 www.motat.org.nz

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COPY DEADLINE: Friday 20 April PUBLISHED: Friday 4 May (Please be on time, as any material arriving after deadline may incur a 20% surcharge) SPECIAL FEATURES: The ‘MISS JONES’ Annual A-Z Local Cafes & Restaurants Guide + Mother’s Day Treats (13 May) + Exploring the long, winding Richmond Road TO BOOK ADVERTISING: ask about our special positions!

Jo Barrett on 021 324 510 or T: 09 361 3356 or 09 378 8553 E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz W: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTIONS - WESTERN SPRINGS Auckland Council’s annual Hazmobile collections offer Aucklanders a chance to get rid of their household hazardous waste free-of-change.

The drive-through collections help ensure hundreds of thousands of tonnes of household and garden chemicals, used batteries, old gas bottles and other hazardous items are safely disposed of each year.

Auckland Council Solid Waste Business Unit Manager Jon Roscoe says seven Hazmobile collections have been scheduled so far for 2012, supplementing the dropoff service available at three refuse transfer stations in the region throughout the year.

“Together these services help ensure residents hazardous waste is safely disposed of, protecting the community and our environment from any potentially harmful effects.”

Mr Roscoe says people interested in using the Hazmobile service should check which household hazardous waste is accepted, ensure they box up their waste carefully before leaving home and follow the instructions from staff upon arrival at a Hazmobile collection site.

The following collections are the final three scheduled for this year.

WESTERN SPRINGS Saturday 14 April, 10am – 2pm in the public carpark on Motions Road, near the Zoo entrance and TAPAC; THREE KINGS Saturday 28 April, 10am – 2pm in the public carpark on Graham Breed Drive, near the Fickling Centre; GLEN INNES Saturday 12 May, 10am – 2pm, Glen Innes Community Centre carpark, Line Road.

More details are available on www.hazmobile.govt.nz or by calling Auckland Council on T: 09 301 0101.

In Auckland Council’s draft Waste Management and Minimisation Plan, which is due to be finalised later this year, it is proposed to eventually replace the Hazmobile service with more accessible drop-off facilities at a regionwide network of resource recovery centres proposed.

Currently in addition to the Hazmobile collections, household hazardous waste can be dropped off at the council’s Henderson, Silverdale and Waiheke Island refuse transfer stations (fees may be charged).

Used engine oil can be disposed of free of charge at any time via oil recovery bins around the region. Visit www.oilrecycling.org.nz for locations. PN

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FIONNA HILL

THE PONSONBY GARDENER

SAVE YOUR OWN SEEDS AUTUMN AND SUMMER ARE THE BEST SEASONS TO SAVE YOUR OWN seeds and it’s very satisfying. Right now there are abundant seeds in Ponsonby gardens ripe for the picking. I’ve been squeezing, squashing and drying asparagus, shoofly, tomatoes, and cleome, bean and peach seeds.

There are many good reasons to seed save. Your own seed will breed plants adapted to your garden and the longer you save the more customised to your spot the seeds will become. You will know your plant history - saving your own seeds means that you know they are untreated chemically, are GE free and you will have control over your own food. It’s a good way of saving money, contributes to food safety and stops plants from becoming extinct, plus your own seed contributes to the genetic diversity of food crops.

Since 1900 we have lost 97% of our food plants. In the USA, 95% of the cabbage, 91% of the field maize, 94% of the bean and 81% of the tomato varieties have been lost. Also in USA in 1981 there were about 5000 open-pollinated vegetable varieties available from catalogues but by 1998 there were 600. Keep an eye on your vegetable plants for good performers that suit your tastes and preferences.

If you notice say a lettuce that bolts to seed quickly, get rid of it, and save lettuce seed from healthy and slow to bolt plants – over time this variety will last longer before bolting. Choose your own open-pollinated seeds. Forget saving seeds from F-1 hybrids – the seed produced by a hybrid plant will not be true to type.

Commercially produced hybrids are a contentious subject and bring up many issues. Michael Pollan in The New York Times Magazine, March 20, 1994 www.michaelpollan.com/articles-archive/the-seed-conspiracy wrote an item headed The Seed Conspiracy, which is worth reading… ”…alternative seed catalogues paint the “F-1″ hybrid, in particular, as an environmental menace and make a point of refusing to handle the dread seed. In the last few decades F-1 hybrids, which are simply the first generation produced by the crossing of two plant varieties, have become the stock in trade of the commercial seed industry, and they are gradually crowding traditional “open pollinated” varieties (ones pollinated by bees, birds or wind instead of plant geneticists) out of the marketplace.”

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DRY PROCESSING: Harvest seeds that are not encased in a fruit - like lettuce, beans and corn. They should be harvested on a dry day after dew has evaporated. Try to leave these seeds as long on the plant as possible to be sure they are fully developed and as dry as possible.

Keep an eye out though for rotting during wet weather or birds and vermin helping themselves to them. Material needs to be broken up like rubbing off the stalks. Then seeds need to be separated from unnecessary material – this may be done by settling out (like gold panning), sieving or winnowing (using air flow). Then seed must be dried.

WET PROCESSING: Cucumbers, aubergines and tomatoes have their seeds encased in flesh and must be fully ripe; this may mean that you leave the fruit on the plant much longer than if you were going to eat it. Remove seed and wash it.

Some seeds like tomato and cucumber benefit from fermentation which removes the gel layer around the seed. As well as beneficially removing the gel this process destroys many of the seed borne diseases that can affect the next batch of plants.

I suggest you read some seed saving material to learn more about this process.

DRYING: Put seed onto a hard surface like glass or a fine mesh screen – not on paper or fabric as it can be hard to remove the seeds once they dry. Dry quite quickly but not in an oven or in scorching sun.

STORAGE: Store seed in a dry place out of the way of vermin (mice ate all mine last year during midnight feasts in the tool shed). I keep the tiny packs found in dietary supplement bottles – I think its silica gel – to put in with seeds in airtight jars to deter moisture. Label and date clearly. The best storage place for seeds in airtight containers is the freezer and next the fridge and next best is a dark, cool, dry place with a constant temperature. Ponsonby humidity and warmth is not good for seeds and will reduce storage time. (FIONNA HILL) PN BOOKS: Seed to Seed by Suzanne Ashworth (Seed Savers Exchange); The Complete Guide to Saving Seeds by Robert Gough and Cheryl Moore-Gough (Storey Publishing); Seeds by Jekka McVicar (Kyle Cathie Ltd) www.seedsavers.org.nz www.seedsavers.org

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS BUSTING THE MYTHS OF HOME HEALTH Homestar™ challenges Kiwis to take the Healthy Home Myths Quiz and be in to win home health kits.

Homestar™ is putting a challenge out to all New Zealanders to test their knowledge on what it takes to create a healthy home.

The ‘Healthy Home Myth Quiz’ was launched recently as part of Home Health Check Month, an initiative led by Homestar – the government and industry backed rating tool for New Zealand homes.

Over the next three weeks, Kiwi homeowners who complete the true-or-false myth -buster quiz through Homestar’s facebook page - www.facebook.com/HomestarNZ – will be in to win a series of home health kits, each valued at up to $800.

Krista Ferguson, Director for Homestar, says there are a lot of myths about home health that need busting, including some that might surprise homeowners.

“When we’re making home improvement decisions, we can easily get overwhelmed with the products and services that get pushed our way. Homestar, through the Home Health Check and Quiz aims to provide independent and helpful information about what really makes for a better performing, healthy home, and show New Zealanders that there are simple, practical things they can do to make it a reality.”

Home Health Check Month has, in its first few weeks, encouraged hundreds of New Zealanders to complete an online questionnaire at www.homestar.org.nz to help them find out how to make their homes warmer, healthier and more comfortable as winter approaches.

“This means we now have over 10,000 homes assessed online and indicates the strong interest Kiwis have in healthy homes,” says Ms Ferguson.

Ms Ferguson says Homestar is hearing great enthusiasm for improving home health from Kiwis, along with a need for clarity about what they can do when renovating or building new.

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“We really hope the Quiz will be a fun way of encouraging even more New Zealanders to think about the issues of home health and comfort.” PN For more information on Homestar, the Mythbuster Quiz and the Home Health Check test, visit www.homestar.org.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS A WORLD OF MUSIC AVAILABLE TO LIBRARY MEMBERS Auckland Libraries members now have access to millions of music files from the Sony Music catalogue – for free. The Freegal Music service (an amalgamation of ‘free’ and ‘legal’) allows members of Auckland Libraries to legally download selected music from the Sony Music catalogue. Members can download up to three songs or tunes per week.

Louise Lahatte, Auckland Libraries Manager of Regional Resources says Freegal is an opportunity for people to rediscover music they love, or find something new.“ Freegal is an exciting opportunity for library users to make the most of another great service through their library membership. Auckland Libraries has an extensive collection of music books, sheet music and CDs – Freegal takes our music resources to another level and highlights the popularity of digital download services in today’s world,” she says.

Auckland Libraries members can use their library membership details to access the Freegal Music catalogue, via the Auckland Libraries website. All songs downloaded from Freegal Music can be kept for as long as you like and songs are DRM-free MP3s that will work with almost every portable device. They can even be transferred to CD. PN Find out more at www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz and join the library at www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/EN/About/Pages/Membership.aspx

MARLEY LAUNCH COPPER AND TITANIUM METALLIC COLOURED SPOUTING SYSTEM NEW ZEALANDERS HAVE TRUSTED MARLEY SPOUTING AND DOWN-PIPE systems to protect their homes from the elements for over 40 years. Marley is proud to introduce the new generation of designer uPVC spouting and down-pipe systems.

Inspired by nature, the Marley Stratus Design Series is created with style and durability in mind.

When renovating, replacing existing spouting or building a new home, the Marley Stratus Design Series offers a premium sophisticated look while protecting against New Zealand’s unique UV rays and changeable climatic conditions. It is guaranteed to never rust, rot or corrode.

Marley has spent 10 years researching materials and perfecting the co-extrusion manufacturing process to deliver the new uPVC spouting and down-pipe system available in copper and titanium hybrid-metallic finishes.

Marley Stratus Design Series includes the popular Typhoon half round spouting with the choice of internal or external mounting brackets. The system also includes New Zealand’s number one selling round down-pipe, Marley RP80 and a full range of moulded components in matching titanium and copper colours.

These low maintenance products are proudly manufactured in New Zealand and are 100% recyclable. The system is also suitable for collection of safe drinking water when used as part of the Marley Rain-harvesting system.

ST PETERS UNDER 16 FOUR – STANDING L-R: Assistant coach - Byron Du Beer, Elliot Rhodes, James McLauchlan, Liam Fox, Coach - Lloyd Widdison; KNEELING: Gregory Pallas and Jack Baird (cox).

For style and durability without compromise insist on Marley Stratus Design Series.

For your free information pack visit www.marley.co.nz or T: 0800 MARLEY (627 539) for your local installer.

ST PETERS ROWERS WIN AT NORTH ISLAND CHAMPS St Peters College has won gold at the North Island Secondary Schools Rowing Championships held at Lake Karapiro last month.

Grey Lynn/Ponsonby is in the St Peters school zone and several of the boys are Grey Lynn/Ponsonby residents.

The under-16’s coxed fours team, made up of Elliot Rhodes, Liam Fox, James McLauchlan, Gregory Pallas, and cox Jack Baird came first in their class in the finals on Sunday. This is the first time St Peters rowing club under-16s have taken gold in the North Island champs. The other St Peters teams entered in the North island championships did well too. The under-15’s quad and under-17’s quad narrowly missed out on medals, both placing fourth. The under-18’s double and under-18’s quad team came fifth and sixth respectively.

The team are travelling to Lake Ruataniwha near Twizel in the South Island the week of March 26 to compete in the national championships, the Maadi Cup regatta. We wish them all the best. PN

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THE HISTORICAL BOROUGH OF PONSONBY AND GREY LYNN

photography: Jay Platt

STREET NAMES: CAROLINE STREET

‘CAROLINE’, A 21 TON SCHOONER THAT WAS BUILT IN 1862 AT WHANGAPE IN the Hokianga, used to patrol the Hauraki Gulf till it was wrecked in Freemans Bay in 1869. History doesn’t relate if our Caroline Street was named after the schooner or Caroline of Brunswick who in 1795 married the Prince of Wales. Queen Caroline, as she became, when her spouse ascended the throne as King George IV, has a much more interesting history than an old schooner.

The marriage was arranged before the two ever met. George was heavily in debt and needed the money that parliament would release to him when he wed. A German princess was required because this suited British foreign policy and according to the Duke of Wellington it was George’s mistress the Countess of Jersey who selected a woman “of indelicate manners, indifferent character and not very inviting appearance, from a hope that disgust with a wife would secure constancy to a mistress.” She certainly lost no time in taking command of the situation, undermining Caroline in every way possible, even to the point of persuading her to wear an unflattering white satin dress for the inaugural meeting with George.

As for George, he took one look at his prospective bride and with barely a word to her, walked to the far end of the room and called for a glass of brandy. Caroline was similarly unimpressed and having difficulty with English let forth in French, “My God! Does the Prince always act like this? I think he is very fat and he’s nothing like as handsome as his portrait.” Their first meal was even worse. Lady Jersey was also at the table, which disconcerted Caroline who tried to impress the company around her with ‘rattling, affecting raillery and wit, throwing out coarse vulgar hints’ about her rival. Lady Jersey maintained a dignified silence while the Prince was disgusted by his fiancée’s manners.

The marriage took place in St James’s Chapel and Caroline’s dress was so heavily encrusted with jewels, she nearly fell over as she walked up the aisle. Prior to the ceremony the reluctant bridegroom steeled himself for the ordeal by drinking so much brandy he was drunk as a skunk during the service. The wedding night was a disaster.

Caroline claimed he was so inebriated that he “passed the greatest part of his bridal night under the grate, where he fell and where I left him.” Nevertheless the union was consummated somehow or other because nine months later Caroline gave birth to Princess Charlotte Augusta.

In no way did the the new baby bring the royal couple closer and after the birth they lived separately. Much to George’s chagrin Caroline was very popular with the masses who responded to her “winning familiarity” and easy open nature. News of the rift exploded in the press and the Prince of Wales was cast as the blackguard in the piece.

He was vilified for his extravagance at a time of war and Caroline was portrayed as the wronged wife.The King and Queen of France had been recently guillotined and a possible invasion from France raised the possibility of revolution in Britain.

Caroline dealt with the situation in her own eccentric fashion. She left England and roamed Europe in search of adventure, and it was rumoured, unsuitable lovers. When George III died and her husband became the king and she nominally the queen, it was time to assert her rights. She returned to England and George immediately demanded that his ministers get rid of her. The Pains and Penalties bill was passed in order to strip Caroline of her title, put her on trial for adultery, and dissolve the marriage. A bit rich considering George had a scandalous number of mistresses! On the first day of the trial, the streets were packed with her supporters who cheered and cried out “The Queen forever!” and “God bless her!”

The prosecution failed to bring enough reliable evidence against the queen and after much argument and counter argument she was acquitted. A year later she died under suspicious circumstances and was buried in her native Brunswick. Royals continue to behave badly but the case against Caroline was so bizarre and inflammatory her story far outstrips that of Princess Diana. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

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COPY DEADLINE: Friday 20 April PUBLISHED: Friday 4 May (Please be on time, as any material arriving after deadline may incur a 20% surcharge) SPECIAL FEATURES: The ‘MISS JONES’ Annual A-Z Local Cafes & Restaurants Guide + Mother’s Day Treats (13 May) + Exploring the long, winding Richmond Road TO BOOK ADVERTISING: ask about our special positions!

Jo Barrett on 021 324 510 or T: 09 361 3356 or 09 378 8553 E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz W: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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ASK AN ARCHITECT: PAUL LEUSCHKE Each month Grey Lynn resident and architect Paul Leuschke of Leuschke Kahn answers readers’ property related questions.

Email yours to jane@leuschkekahn.co.nz

Q:

We are planning to renovate our family home gradually while we are living in it and so want to be careful about using toxic building materials.

Can you give us an idea of what materials/chemicals we should avoid and what are some healthy alternatives?

A:

Your best resource for finding less toxic materials is the www.enviro-choice. org.nz website. Many products on the market have confusing labels that claim to be “green” and “earth friendly” but the Environmental Choice NZ label is the only one to look for (it is owned and endorsed by the government). It means that the product has been independently assessed to meet environmental leadership specifications.

There are a lot of low/zero VOC products available so it pays to ask for them and look for the environmental choice label. Indoor plants are an incredibly effective way to remove chemical pollutants from the air and they work quickly. A study by NASA showed that flowering plants like Gerbera’s and Chrysanthemums were superior at removing VOCs from the atmosphere. Search NASA on www.zone10.com to find a list of the top 10 plants for removing toxins from the air.

Lastly make sure you keep the space you’re working in well ventilated. If you buy any building materials that have a strong odour don’t bring them inside straight away, leave it outside and under cover for a few days to air. (PAUL LEUSCHKE) PN www.leuschkekahn.co.nz

You should try to avoid or reduce the use of anything containing PVC and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs are found in a huge amount of building materials such as resilient flooring, fabrics, furniture, wall covering, ceiling tiles, composite wood products (built-in and modular casework), insulation, paints and coatings, adhesives, stains, sealants and varnishes. Try using plant based or zero/low VOC products, the first benefit you might be pleasantly surprised to find is that when you use them the smell often associated with paint and adhesives isn’t there, making the work environment much healthier.

VOCs become airborne at room temperature and are emitted from a large range of building products and often continue to be emitted for a long period of time after the product has been installed. This means you could be breathing in hazardous chemicals for many years after you renovate so if you do use products containing VOCs be sure to continue to ventilate the area in the future. The worst VOCs such as formaldehyde and benzene are carcinogens and are found in high levels in some pressed wood products like plywood and particleboard and polyurethane.

BEAUMONT QUARTER AND BEAUMONT STREET - WHO’S IN CHARGE? AS RESIDENTS OF THE BEAUMONT QUARTER, WE HAVE HAD TO PUT UP WITH two years of disruption as a result of the construction of the Victoria Park Tunnel and the Victory Church Centre car park. Now that these two projects are coming to an end we are faced with a legacy of compromised solutions along the length of a busy stretch of road that not only affect us but also other through traffic and users of the park, car park and new skate park facility. Added to this we have been struggling to demonstrate to the Council Planners that a further development proposal in this area would likely be the straw that breaks the camel’s back in terms of safety issues, let alone the long term impact on the urban design principles and heritage values that the Auckland Council purports to promote. This latter development is a proposed Quest Apartment block in the small vacant space bounded by the Beaumont Quarter, the old gas works building and the VCC car park.

Anyone exiting from the north entrance of Fisher Point Drive knows that this severely hampers visibility of oncoming traffic. Perhaps some of the revenue earned from the Pay and Display machines could be spent on correcting this inconsistency.

Whilst several councillors have indicated their support for our concerns, the planning process may yet decide that the individual impacts being each less than minor will result in a non-notified consent for a building which everyone walking or driving past (including those who have just driven past the “gateway” footbridge over State Highway 1 linking Westhaven and Jacobs Ladder) will wonder “how did they let that happen?”

• Bus parking on the east side of Beaumont Street - we are given to understand that the bus parking will shortly be reinstated along this stretch of road for the offpeak period.

We are unsure why this is necessary given that the buses have parked elsewhere for the duration of the tunnel project and will simply add to the burden on Beaumont Street. In addition the re-sited and expanded skate park is immediately adjacent to the bus parks and there will likely be conflict between cars wanting to park/drop off for the skate park and the buses, not to mention the safety of skate park users who may stray close to the road.

The key issues for Beaumont Street are listed below and are exaggerated by the fact that different units or divisions within Auckland Council, Auckland Transport and the NZTA all seem to be making decisions on these issues without reference to each other: • Right turns from Beaumont Street to Fanshawe Street – while the NZTA have apparently decided on experimenting with keeping the Wellington Street onramp closed, we await a decision on whether these will be reinstated and how the phasing of the lights may be adjusted accordingly. While these restrictions exist, the volume of traffic making U-Turns across Beaumont Street to access State Highway one via the Fanshawe Street on ramp is ridiculous and it must only be a matter of time before a significant accident occurs.

• Signage for the new layout of the junction of Beaumont Street and Fanshawe Street - signs have begun appearing on Beaumont Street leading from Victoria Street although these are unclear and obscured by the proximity of the trees lining Beaumont Street.

• Car parks on west side of Beaumont Street – we gather these will become Pay and Display. It would be good to know that these will be actively enforced and to know if this will apply 24 hours a day or just peak/offpeak times. Also at the south entrance to Fisher Point Drive, there is a yellow line restricting cars parking between the pedestrian refuge and Fisher Point Drive. The similar restriction at the north entrance to Fisher Point Drive extends from a single car par space to the north of the second refuge.

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• Both of the entrances to/from Beaumont Street generate traffic flows which potentially disrupt the flow along Beaumont Street. We are concerned that there have been no studies done which evaluate this in conjunction with traffic flows from the re-opened Victory Church Centre car park, the Victoria Park car park (under the viaduct and next to the skate park, not yet fully opened) not to mention the proposed Quest apartment planned for the space at the north entrance to Fisher Point Drive. These concerns might be partially addressed if clearways in the form of painted road markings were installed at both entrances to Fisher Point Drive.

• A proposal to install bus stops on the west side of Beaumont Street was withdrawn hastily last year but we have no comfort that this will not reappear at some point in the future.

• Whilst the construction of the Victoria Park Tunnel and the Victory Church Centre car park were both required to minimise their impact on traffic on Beaumont Street, the proposed Quest hotel – by virtue of the size and location of the site – will inevitably add to the potential for dangerous manoeuvres along Beaumont Street even allowing for extensive traffic safety planning. If the hotel is built, the additional traffic – although not huge in volume – will be interrupting the flow of traffic on Beaumont Street for each movement, thereby creating an impact that is definitely not “less than minor”.

I draw these issues to your attention as I have previously read articles in your publication where these issues were not dealt with ahead of time and have then taken too much time and money to be put right – if that is indeed possible. Any attention you can help us to focus on these and how they affect all of the people and communities in this area would be much appreciated. PN TONY BROWN, Beaumont Quarter Residents Society PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS APPLY NOW FOR HELP TO WARM UP YOUR HOME Aucklanders who want their homes to be warmer, drier and healthier in time for winter can join the 1000 homeowners who have applied for assistance through Auckland Council’s Retrofit Your Home programme.

Under the programme eligible homeowners can apply to the council for a free home sustainability assessment and personalised retrofit plan along with up to $5000 towards the cost of insulation and/or clean heating solutions, with repayments added to their rates bill.

Originally piloted in West Auckland before being offered region wide last year, Retrofit Your Home received a $2 million funding boost from the council last month to help ensure more people across the region can benefit from the programme this financial year.

Auckland’s Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says the council estimates up to 400,000 homes in Auckland have no or inadequate insulation.

“The aim is to assist in ensuring more families in Auckland have well-insulated, warmer and healthier homes,” she says, “and with winter approaching we’re encouraging people to apply now for the support available. An early application will help ensure the insulation, heating or other solutions homeowners pursue can be organised before the cold weather sets in.”

Papatoetoe resident Lynne Butler decided to take advantage of the programme last year after being told her chimney needed to be replaced. “It was going to cost $5000 to get another chimney,” she says, “and because I’ve had a stroke and I can’t get wood in I thought ‘here’s my chance to get rid of it altogether’.”

So she booked a free Retrofit Your Home assessment and took advantage of the financial assistance available through the programme to get a heat pump installed by one of the council-approved suppliers. “The council was so helpful with everything.

I couldn’t recommend the programme more,” she says. ”It’s just marvellous. I’m really looking forward to using the heat pump this winter.”

More information on the Retrofit Your Home programme is available online at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/retrofityourhome or by calling T: 09 301 0101. PN

CITY RAIL LINK WORK ACCELERATED Auckland Council decided last month to bring forward spending on the City Rail Link (CRL).

Money previously earmarked for the 2012-2013 CRL budget will now be spent in the current financial year. It will come from public transport and travel demand management projects that cannot be progressed in the 2011-12 year due to external factors such as delays in securing necessary resource consents.

“This is money that council had planned to spend anyway on the CRL in the following financial year. It is being brought forward to assist in achieving important project milestones, such as making surveys of the land likely to be used in the project,” said the chair of the Strategy and Finance Committee. Councillor Penny Webster says it will have no impact on the overall cost of the project.” $6.3 million will be spent on work including geotechnical surveys, utility and building assessments, contaminated site reports and rail operations modelling. $1.7m will go towards providing the Government with a revised business case, which it requested.

The CRL, a project managed by Auckland Transport, will be a new 3.5-kilometre underground electrified rail line allowing Britomart to become a through station and providing up to three new stations near Aotea Centre, Karangahape Road and Newton. PN

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photography: Julie Roulston

JACQUIE HUDSON - MY FAVOURITE ROOM

Jacquie is the New Zealand and Australian distributor for designer European clothing range Ioanna Kourbela www.theroomdownstairs.co.nz available in Ponsonby at OCTOBER REIGN. While in Athens a few years ago Jacquie found the Greek label and subsequently started her business from home.

“I live with my husband and our two naughty Jack Russell dogs, Russ and Rubie, in Saint Mary’s Bay - we have lived in this amazing area for nearly 10 years. My favourite room in the house is THE ROOM DOWNSTAIRS, a showroom and chill out space. It allows me to showcase the range to retailers from the comfort of my own home.

The Room Downstairs is a fun place to interact with my clients. It looks out onto our really green garden, which also makes it a relaxing space. My favourite things in the room are the colourful sofas and the “bit-of-disco” artwork. The artwork is called KoruJack and I bought it just after my Grandad died, to remind me of him. And of course I love all the amazing collections from Ioanna Kourbela I get to display in the room - it’s continually changing as each new season arrives.” PN

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS TIME TO GET YOUR GAS APPLIANCES SERVICED Household gas appliances should be serviced before winter to make sure they operate safely and efficiently, says Gas New Zealand. “An annual service will ensure your appliances continue to operate effectively,” says Gas New Zealand spokesperson, Ray Ferner.

“The beauty of gas is that it’s energy efficient, cleaner burning, cheaper than electricity in many cases, and it provides powerful heat and endless hot water. But you do need to keep your appliances well tuned. Preventative and proactive maintenance is certainly cheaper than reactive maintenance,” Mr. Ferner said.

Gas is becoming an increasingly popular energy source in New Zealand and the industry estimates that about half of all New Zealand households have a gas appliance.

“Gas is very much a lifestyle choice,” Mr. Ferner said. “It’s environmentally friendly, clean and safe in the home, and guarantees a strong source of heat and hot water - its affordable luxury.”

Mr. Ferner said gas appliances are safer than ever, having to meet rigorous international safety standards and only duly qualified gasfitters can install and service them.

Appliance owners should contact their appliance supplier or visit their web site to get a list of gas fitters trained to service their appliance. PN For more information on the beauty of gas and its effectiveness as an energy source, visit www.thebeautyofgas.co.nz.

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS PROGRESS ON CITY RAIL LINK WELCOMED The Mayor has welcomed news that work on the City Rail Link (CRL) is progressing.

Auckland Council’s Strategy and Finance committee has brought forward money from the 2012-2013 CRL budget, which will now be spent in the current financial year in order to continue progress protecting the eventual route.

“The City Rail Link is a key project that will allow more trains to travel through Britomart, increasing the number and frequency of trips across the whole rail network,” says Len Brown. “Aucklanders have waited long enough for better public transport. This council is determined to get on with it.”

“With the CRL, a journey from New Lynn to the Aotea Station will take less than half the time and from Manukau to Karangahape Road, the journey will be a third faster than now.

Auckland Council and the government have agreed on the strategic case for protecting the route of the rail link and this year’s spending will have no impact on the overall cost of the project. $6.3 million will be spent on work including geotechnical surveys, utility and building assessments, contaminated site reports and rail operations modelling. $1.7m will go towards meeting the Government’s requirement that additional work be undertaken on CBD growth projections and access issues.

“We cannot leave fixing Auckland’s public transport system to our kids,” says the Mayor. PN

FIX IT BUILDING SERVICES - FOR ALL BUILDING REQUIREMENTS The Fix It Building Services Group provides a design to completion service for home renovation, additions and extensions throughout New Zealand. Their services include re-cladding of homes either due to modernisation or leaky building syndrome.

Whether you wish to modernise your home with a bathroom renovation, improve your family environment with a new open plan kitchen and dining space or open up your living space with new indoor/outdoor flow, then Fix It Building Services has the experience to ensure you get the best value for money and a living space you adore. And if things are getting a little cramped then talk to them about creating new spaces. It could be a simple addition or using an existing ceiling space or utilising sloping sections to create a basement living space.

Let’s not forget about the great outdoors where decks not only add to the enjoyment of your home but add value at the same time. Then there are garages that provide security through internal access or extra space to allow you to use all that gym equipment. The multiple uses of sleep-outs or other outbuildings vary from children who need their own space, a place for visitors to stay or a place to keep older relatives close by.

Fix It have sourced the best trades people and they guarantee their work – no matter what trade you need help with, make Fix It Building Services your first stop. PN FIX IT BUILDING SERVICES, T: 09 631 7106 www.builderrenovationsaucklandcentral.co.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

73 ST MARY’S ROAD SOLD – WHAT HAPPENED...

While buyer interest in St Mary’s Bay is significant, the listings are light which is giving potential vendors the opportunity to maximise on their investment. An example of this is a recent successful auction campaign in St Mary’s Road. Throughout a three and a half week campaign more than 140 groups were introduced to the property. On auction day there were five hot buyers on site, two of which battled it out to the successful fall of the hammer. The result was: extremely happy vendors and an ecstatic new owner.

What impressed these vendors the most, apart from a very clear level of commitment, was Maria Salmon’s belief in their property as a special home. Known for marketing properties with a tailor made plan, Maria negotiates her sales based on her appreciation that every property is unique. “With a keen eye for detail and your best interests at heart, my first commitment is getting to know you and to connect with your property.

That way I will create an individualised marketing campaign to reflect your property’s unique selling features and to gain maximum exposure,” says Maria.

With a high level of energy and integrity to match, you will always feel that you are dealing one to one with Maria. If you would like to know more about your property’s value and current market conditions, call today for a no-obligation, confidential appointment to discuss how Maria can help you achieve an exceptional result. PN MARIA SALMON – Local Area Specialist with CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL, M: 027 274 0573 maria.salmon@customresidential.co.nz

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KATE CAUGHEY UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Kate Caughey has been working as an interior designer and home staging stylist at The Look for seven years. She has gained a reputation for having the vision and flair needed to present Ponsonby’s homes to their full potential, “helping home owners to achieve top dollar, fast!” From classic Ponsonby villas to architecturally designed contemporary homes, Kate will read the personality of each individual property, creating stylish and inviting designs to suit.

WHERE DO YOU LIVE? In Mt Eden with my partner, Dan O’Connor (GM at The Look).

WHERE DO YOU SPEND YOUR HOLIDAYS? Whangapoua Beach or Lake Okareka.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? Yes, a shaggy black toy poodle named Rio and a handsome blue Burmese named Tiki.

YOUR BEST FRIEND WOULD SAY OF YOU... I asked her, and this was her response: “You are a shining light for anyone lucky enough to be in your space, you are a creative inspiration.” What an awesome friend!

YOUR MOTHER WOULD SAY OF YOU... that my creative talent is thanks to her good genes.

WHAT ARE YOUR VIRTUES? I’m approachable, patient, a people person.

AND YOUR VICES? Spending money I don’t have and the inability to say ‘no’.

WHAT’S YOUR SECRET PASSION? Oysters and expensive yachts.

WHAT WERE YOU GOING TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? An artist.

HOW DID YOU COME TO BE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER? After graduating with a BFA in Painting from Canterbury, I moved to Auckland with great intentions of being a freelance artist. I lasted nine months painting before realising I couldn’t keep up the game of “living off the smell of an oily rag”. Interior design seemed like the perfect progression for me to express my creativity in a medium that would also foster my passion for design. An empty house became my new blank canvas.

IF YOU WEREN’T AN INTERIOR DESIGNER YOU’D BE... travelling the world.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PONSONBY CAFE? Dizengoff.

FAVOURITE PONSONBY RESTAURANT? Ponsonby Bistro.

FAVOURITE PONSONBY STORE? Macy Home.

FAVOURITE PONSONBY FASHION LABEL? Sass and Bide.

YOUR BEST-KEPT PONSONBY SECRET? Fuji Teppan-Yaki.

YOUR DESERT ISLAND DISTRACTIONS? A piece of charcoal and paper.

ONE THING YOU HAVE LEARNED ABOUT LIFE IS... not to wait for things to happen, but to make them happen.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE TO PONSONBY HOME SELLERS? The astute Ponsonby home seller will understand that the key to making their property stand out amongst a sea of other listings, is to present it at its absolute best. Street appeal is a magnet for buyers so it is well worth investing the time and money to ensure the property looks fabulous. PN THE LOOK, 20 Maidstone Street T: 09 302 2400 www.thelook.co.nz

ARE YOU SELLING? ‘you can’t sell a secret... good marketing makes a difference every time’ www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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LOCAL COUNCILS PLAY KEY ROLE IN CLIMATE CHANGE BATTLE The Chair of Auckland Council’s Environment Forum believes local government is in a strong position to help the national and international effort to slow climate change.

In the wake of the announcement of proposed changes to the responsibilities of local government, Councillor Wayne Walker says the suggestion that councils have no role to play in reducing climate change is unfounded.

“Auckland Council is already involved in delivering public transport, protecting green areas, development planning, waste reduction and significantly reducing the council’s own carbon footprint, all of which help reduce climate change,” says Councillor Walker.

“Auckland’s goal is to reduce dangerous carbon emissions 40 per cent by 2040, and 50 per cent by 2050. Aucklanders have endorsed that goal through the Auckland Plan and these targets are consistent with the government’s own goals to reduce climate change.

“We support the Government’s goal to have 90 per cent of electricity generated from renewable sources by 2025. Central and local Government should be working together on this urgent global issue.

“Of course the council won’t be bringing in an emissions trading scheme, that’s the role of central government. However, all around the world, cities lead the charge in reducing carbon emissions.

“For instance, the Mayor of New York leads the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group initiative that links cities together to share knowledge about how to deal with the climate change crisis. The Rio +20 event this year will bring together cities from around the world which are making a real difference now in how they reduce carbon emissions.”

“Auckland Council is clear we need a strong focus on reducing climate change and we are working with business and communities to identify the best smart, sustainable and efficient opportunities to do this. Our work delivering the infrastructure and programmes to achieve that goal will continue.” PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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KITCHEN, BATHROOM AND INTERIOR DESIGN ASK ROB@BUILDSPACE.CO.NZ

Q:

Our current kitchen is separated from the living area and we’re working through options to create an open plan kitchen/living and we would like to include a scullery to give us an area where we can hide away any mess when we’re entertaining. Are there any disadvantages to incorporating a scullery into our plans?

A:

Open plan kitchens have made sculleries or butler’s pantries popular for that very reason and they are now commonplace in new home design. They can however be more difficult to incorporate into renovations depending on the space you have to work with and how far you want to go with your renovation.

Gone are the days when the kitchen was a working space separated from the rest of the house. The kitchen today is the centre of most homes and often the room where we spend most of our time. Whether we’re entertaining or just spending time with friends or family at home, we tend to spend our time in the kitchen and adjoining living area.

Kitchens are designed to look good and play a variety of roles in our everyday lives from preparation and entertaining to a place for the kids to do their homework.

Islands are also a popular part of open plan kitchen design providing a place where people can sit and interact with anyone working in the kitchen and in many cases have replaced the kitchen table where informal meals are taken. Like sculleries, islands are easy as part of a new home design but can be a little more tricky with renovations.

The first point to consider is how to create the most open plan area which may require removing and changing wall positions. This can become costly if the walls you want to move are structural. An architect and engineer will provide solutions to such issues and when planning an extensive renovation you will generally have much the same freedom as you would with building a new house. But if you want to avoid any structural changes then you’re likely to be more restricted.

Older homes do not always lend themselves to typical new home open plan kitchen layout because of existing wall and window positions. A scullery will normally require a new wall or walls which will therefore reduce the size of the open area and which may not be the best thing to do in the grand scheme of things. Similarly island kitchens are suited to a long wide space which you may not have to work with.

The area may better suit an ‘L’ Shape or Peninsula design which may not perfectly fit your vision but will make better use of the available area allowing for a balanced

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design and functional kitchen. With any new kitchen design we must also consider the workflow, often referred to as a triangle between the fridge, sink and stove. How we design cabinets and where we place the appliances will also be influenced by existing windows which we would almost always want to retain.

Where we are restricted, simple changes such as creating an opening in the wall between a galley kitchen and living area can create a new connection between the two areas which has big impact on how you use and enjoy the rooms. An on bench pantry offers some of the benefits of a scullery providing a convenient place to hide away kettles and toasters rather than leaving them on show, or an adjoining laundry can become a multi purpose laundry and scullery.

Older homes are unique and often require more thought and clever design. Take your time with planning, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and consider what plan will best suit your space rather than trying to fit a particular plan or design element you may have seen elsewhere into your home. (ROB HOOK) PN BUILDSPACE KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS – Design Build Install T: 0800 455 556 info@buildspace.co.nz www.buildspace.co.nz

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THE BOYS’ BOOK CLUB WHAT WE’RE READING Books us blokes on the Ponsonby News team are reading, or have recently enjoyed. We LOVE reading in the bath, or in bed. A real stress buster!

MARTIN LEACH GCHQ

By Richard J Aldrich (Harper) Back in my London days I ran the Human Resources Excellence Awards as a brand extension to one of my magazines and I can remember being slightly shocked when, GCHQ, the UK’s most secret intelligence Agency entered back in 1999.

Government Communication Headquarters (GCHQ). GCHQ is the successor to the famous Bletchley Park wartime code-breaking organisation and is the largest and most secretive intelligence organisation in the country. During the war, it commanded more staff than MI5 and MI6 combined and has produced a number of intelligence triumphs, as well as some notable failures. Since the end of the Cold War, it has played a pivotal role in shaping Britain’s secret state. Still, we know almost nothing about it.

In this ground-breaking new book, Richard Aldrich traces GCHQ’s evolvement from a wartime code-breaking operation based in the Bedfordshire countryside, staffed by eccentric crossword puzzlers, to one of the world leading espionage organisations. It is packed full of dramatic spy stories that shed fresh light on Britain’s role in the Cold War -- from the secret tunnels dug beneath Vienna and Berlin to tap Soviet phone lines, and daring submarine missions to gather intelligence from the Soviet fleet, to the notorious case of Geoffrey Pine, one of the most damaging moles ever recruited by the Soviets inside British intelligence.

The book reveals for the first time how GCHQ operators based in Cheltenham affected the outcome of military confrontations in far-flung locations such as Indonesia and Malaysia, and exposes the shocking case of three GCHQ workers who were killed in an infamous shootout with terrorists while working undercover in Turkey.

Today’s GCHQ struggles with some of the most difficult issues of our time. A leading force of the state’s security efforts against militant terrorist organisations like al-Qaeda, they are also involved in fundamental issues that will mould the future of British society. Compelling and revelatory, Aldrich’s book is the crucial missing link in Britain’s intelligence history.- or at least the other one hundredth of one percent - lives.

This is the style of tent stolen, apart from the colour which was red.

CAN YOU HELP WITH THE STOLEN ‘EASY UP’ TENT FROM CHAMBERLAIN PARK? ‘This year’s ‘Take Friday Off’ Golf and Charity Auction was marred by the theft of one of the ‘Easy Up’ tents donated by McEntee Hire and used by Covo Restaurant, Richmond Road.

This happened in broad daylight immediately after the afternoon session and while the auctions were being held. Organisers Chris Dunn and Richard White of Harcourts Ponsonby are ‘gutted’ as the replacement cost of $1,900 will diminish the amount raised to just over $19,000.

Chris wonders, with the amount of goodwill that clearly exists for Mercy Hospice, whether readers might consider making small gift donations to ‘top up’ this loss. “Many people either don’t like golf or cannot organise the time off for the event but may have the ability and generosity to send a donation.”

If you are happy to do this please either send a cheque to Harcourts Ponsonby Charitable Trust (Mercy Hospice is the sole recipient) or access the named account electronically at ASB 12 3209 0472651 00.

Next year Mercy Hospice will man the course with volunteers until the Harcourts people can complete the auctions and collect the tents. PN

JAY PLATT DEVIL’S GATE

by Clive Cussler & Graham Brown (Penguin Group) A Japanese cargo ship cruises the eastern Atlantic near the Azores when it bursts into flames. A gang of pirates speeds to take advantage of the disaster or are they the ones that caused it. When they are done they abandon ship speed away when their boat explodes. What is happening in this part of the world?

As Kurt Austin, Joe Zavala, and the rest of the NUMA Special Assignments Team rush to investigate, they find themselves drawn into the extraordinary ambitions of an African dictator, the creation of a weapon of almost mythical power, and an unimaginably audacious plan to extort the world’s major nations. The penalty for refusal? The destruction of their greatest cities. Filled with the high-stakes suspense and boundless invention that Clive Cussler is known for. Unfortunatley I feel I have read this kind of thing too many times before although I enjoyed it, it was predictable. PN

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GREY LYNN COMMUNITY CHURCH VOLUNTEERS - FREE CAR CLEANING Multi cultural Grey Lynn Community Church volunteers at 550 Richmond Road cleaned my car and many other cars on a morning last month for FREE! (FIONNA HILL) PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

TAKING THE ‘DIFFICULTY’ OUT OF PROPERTY CONVEYANCING Fahra Manning is a lawyer who makes the seemingly difficult things easy. She specifically specialises in conveyancing (the transfer of ownership of property), trusts and relationship property and has over 10 years experience in this area.

“It’s always good to go into buying a property with your eyes wide open as it’s probably the biggest asset you’ll acquire in your life, which is why things like LIM reports are important - you want to know that the house you’re buying is a solid investment.

It’s also why things like relationship property agreements and trusts are useful, so you can safeguard your investment long-term”, says Fahra.

It can take a while to find the house of your dreams and conveyancing tends to be the last thing people think about, but if you can address it early, it’s always to your advantage. “The sooner people come to see us, the easier we can make the process,” says Fahra.

FARRY AND CO. is a highly regarded boutique law firm of Barristers and Solicitors specialising in all areas of law and business. To receive your initial conveyancing consultation free of charge, simply phone Fahra on T: 09 379 0055 to make an appointment. www.farry.co.nz PN

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GOT A LEGAL QUESTION? ASK MICHAEL@METROLAW.CO.NZ

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

Email Michael with your question and include PONSONBY NEWS in the subject line. Michael Hemphill, a partner of the firm will answer one topical question each month.

Q: A:

I am looking at setting up a family trust and have been asked whether I want an independent trustee and if so who? Should I have one, who should I choose? Would my brother be a good choice?

Yes, you should have an independent trustee. Although from a theoretical point of view trust law does not require you to have an independent trustee it helps to demonstrate that the trust is independent of you. This helps defeat arguments that the trust is a sham or merely an alter ego that can challenge the integrity of the trust. This is why it is always important to make a minute or resolution of any major decisions of the trust and to keep the trust’s financial interests separate from your own.

The purpose of your family trust is generally to protect your most important assets such as your home. If this is the main purpose of your trust and you have spent (usually) several thousand dollars in setting up and maintaining your trust why would you take a less conservative approach and forego having an independent trustee? Don’t.

Choosing your trustee is extremely important. In law the practical often outweighs the legal. What you have written in your business contracts can easily be undermined by choosing the wrong person to go into business with. In the same way choosing the wrong trustee can undermine the purposes for which you set up the trust. It is also worthwhile discussing the objectives of the trust with that person so you have a common understanding (it is surprising the number of people who don’t this) and it is also worthwhile setting out those objectives in a memorandum of wishes for their guidance.

Family members may be included among the beneficiaries of your trust. This may cause problems if you choose one of them to be a trustee. Under most bank documents a trustee’s liability is only limited to the assets of the trust if they have no personal interest in the trust fund. A family member may therefore be personally liable for any borrowing. If you want your brother or his children to be beneficiaries then it will be easier if he is not a trustee.

Lawyers and accountants have become increasingly reluctant to be independent trustees as the law holds them to a higher standard of responsibility and there is greater risk that they can be sued. We set up a separate trustee company for each client. In the past lawyers and accountants would often use one trustee company for all of their trusteeships, but there have been instances where litigation involving one client’s trust has caught up all of the other trusts and the lawyer had to change trustees on all the other trusts. Not a very happy situation.

Independent trustees have an annoying habit of being out of the country when you need them to sign documents. It is worthwhile making sure that they have granted a deed of delegation power of attorney to cover for these instances. These are only effective when the trustee is temporarily physically incapacitated or outside of the country. An enduring power of attorney cannot delegate trustee powers and should not be used for this purpose. PN METROLAW, Level 2, 36 Williamson Avenue T: 09 929 0800 www.metrolaw.co.nz Disclaimer - This article is for general information purposes only. If you have a legal problem you should seek advice from a lawyer. Metro Law does not accept any liability other than to its clients and then only when advice is sought on specific matters.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HERNE BAY PHARMACY OPENING CELEBRATION FRIDAY 2 MARCH, HERNE BAY

We missed this party because it fell on the distribution date of our March issue and we were busy organising getting the magazine to our delivery team. Jill Cory, (whose letter supporting both Little Herne Bay Pharmarcy and the new “big” Herne Bay Pharmacy was published in the last issue), told us there was a great turnout with speeches from Cath Tizard and herself. This may have been one of the last photographs of Helen Blackburn, who sadly passed away on 9 March, only days following her appearance at the small party for customers and friends.

1. Dame Cath Tizard, Helen Blackburn and Jill Cory; 2. Trudi Brewer and Mark Leask; 3. Geraldine Phillips and Jill Cory; 4. Brian Edwards and Judy Callaghan.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS ANIMALOSOPHY: DR MEGAN ALDERSON

WIN THE ULTIMATE ‘MOTHER AND FURBABY’ MAKEOVER There is something magic about the month of April.

Thoughts on fertility, the origins of our Easter celebration, lead to fecundity and fecundity to the wonderment of the reproductive cycle. This cycle revolves around the female of every species – those commonly described as ‘Mother’.

Mothers have been a source of inspiration and admiration since the infamous Madonna and child portraits were painted by the Renaissance artists. The fascination continues today with the paparazzi entertaining us with surreptitious photos of besotted celebrities and their kin.

Will Brangelina ever stop breeding? Has poor old Jen left her run too late? Is being a mother so important it would be a crime to pass up on the gift of reproduction? Can being a fur parent take motherhood’s place?

I’m always perturbed when I hear ‘I have never felt love like when holding my baby for the first time’. With no biological babies of my own I wonder is this oxytocin-induced love affair brought on by the first milk or will over half the world’s population truly miss out on the natural phenomena of mother-baby love?

For a mother a baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, possibilities and dreams. The strength of the maternal bond is essential for survival of all species, and let’s face it some of us need to breed or we would never be able to enjoy playing with cute little puppies and kittens.

I know many homo sapien mothers also have a very special place in their hearts for their pets. By raising our pets we can call ourselves proud mothers as a mother is said to be someone who can take the place of everyone else, but no one in the world can take her place. This is how my dog, Sydney, feels about me. I am her special person (and I shamelessly call her my furbaby) and she my special dog friend.

So for all the mothers of our pets to honour the less traditionally touted bond between ‘Mother and Furbaby’ our team at The Strand Veterinarian are giving away the ultimate Mother’s Day makeover for you and your precious pet.

Go to www.facebook.com/TheStrandVet for further details on how to enter.

Entries close 8 May 2012. (DR MEGAN ALDERSON) PN THE STRAND VETERINARIAN, 114 The Strand T: 09 377 6667 www.thestrandvet.co.nz

SPCA SAYS CAGE FREE BARN IS CHEAPER THAN COLONY CAGES The SPCA is asking battery hen farmers to consider converting to barn housing for layer hens as a cage-free farming option.

The Egg Producers Federation have announced the proposed change to colony cages is accepted by the industry but that it will cost $150M and take an estimated 18 years for industry to recoup.

The SPCA agrees that the investment layer hen farmers will make is substantial and therefore consumers can expect hens to live in cages for a long time to come.

However UK figures show that the cost of converting from battery cages to a barn system is less than converting to a colony cage system and delivers the cage-free eggs that consumers want.

“Consumers are becoming far more conscious of where and how their food is produced and they don’t want cages,” says Juliette Banks, SPCA National Accreditation and Marketing Manager.

“With a steady annual increase in the free-range egg market it is clear consumers will not accept caged eggs in the future.”

For industry to spend millions converting a system that consumers will reject seems pointless.

“The production cost of barn eggs is only slightly higher than the colony system so the cost difference to consumers at the checkout will be minimal, however the life quality of the chicken is considerably better.” says Juliette.

The SPCA Blue Tick accreditation scheme audits cage-free producers to ensure good welfare standards for layer hens. Consumers choosing Blue Tick products can be assured of high welfare production standards. PN www.rnzspca.org.nz

SCOTTIE BOOKENDS! “No, this is not a two headed scottie. This is Robson and Hilda sharing a chair. Despite their seven year age difference, they are the best of friends”, says Grey Lynn resident and co-owner Jennifer Buckley, she shares a quote from Mark Twain: “To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.”

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ASK ALEX IT’S ABOUT TIME – PET FIRST AID CLASSES ARE NOW AVAILABLE! YOUR PETS, JUST LIKE CHILDREN ARE AT GREAT RISK OF DEATH OR injury from preventable accidents than any other reason. Taking the correct and proper actions can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce the extent of injury to your pet, before transporting them to your veterinarian.

Rhiannon Taylor, owner of Complete Canine Care Ltd is now offering Pet Tech’s pet first aid and care classes for pet owners: PetSaver TM. “An important part of being a caring, conscientious, responsible and loving pet owner is knowing the life saving skills of pet CPR, first aid and care,” stated Taylor.

Rhiannon Taylor successfully completed the Pet Tech Instructor Training program early February 2012 and is qualified to teach the Pet Tech family of programs. The eight-hour PetSaver class includes the skills and information necessary to prepare the pet owner in the unfortunate event of a medical emergency involving their pet. Some of the topics highlighted in the class include: CPR, Rescue Breathing, Shock Management, Bleeding Protocols, Injury and Wellness Assessments, Heat Injuries, Cold Injuries and dental and senior “pet-izen” care.

“Doggie” or “Kitty” breath is not normal and is usually a sign of poor oral hygiene that should be addressed promptly. Dental Care For Your Pets teaches pet owners the many aspects of caring for their pet’s teeth. Pet owners will learn how to properly brush their pet’s teeth, choose safe toys and healthy food snacks and work with their veterinarian to assure good dental health.

On average, pets (dogs and cats) seven years and older are considered senior “pet-izens” and are at risk of age-related health problems. In Pet Tech’s PetSaver class, pet owners will learn the risk factors associated with older pets, proper exercise plans, diet and nutritional choices, and the things they should be doing for senior pet-izens and the things they should not be doing for pets in their golden years.

“Now pet owners can learn pet CPR, first aid and care and give their pets the best care available,” notes Taylor. PN For more information or to sign-up for one of our classes, email Rhiannon Taylor, Complete Canine Care Ltd, admin@completecaninecare.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Each month Dr Alex Melrose answers readers’ pet related issues. e-mail yours to: alex@vetcare.net.nz I think I’ve hurt Mac! I accidentally stood on his tail one morning last week, (in the dark) and he squealed a bit but definitely didn’t run away or show any distress. Then last night, my husband noticed as he stroked him over his back right on the base of his tail ... he yelped! Now we have taken even more notice of him, he’s definitely dragging his tail and not lifting it at all! I’m bad! I think it must have been me. Is this something we need to bring him in for you to look at or do we just watch him? He shows absolutely no sign of distress or being in any discomfort, unless you push right at the base of his tail. There’s no loss of appetite or anything else unusual about his behaviour!

Look forward to your reply and thank you, SIMONE & MAC.

Q:

Ooooopps, now you’ve done it. Damn those 5am gym starts in the dark.

Look on the good side of things Mac is in minimal pain. While it can be hard to detect pain in cats (their survival instincts mask it amazingly well), a big smooch-ball like Mac would at least show you (his parents) something like loss of appetite, grumpiness or a change in routine. This means you do have the luxury of waiting and watching for a short while. There are two main possibilities;

A:

1. Lots of deep bruising and therefore Mac won’t tense his tail muscles as it hurts, cats injured like this will voluntarily let their tails hang, usually this will only be for a few days then bruising subsides.

2. That the trauma has severely traumatised or severed the tail nerves and Mac has no feeling in his droopy tail. This usually won’t improve at all, and presents with lack of all reflexes and even deep pain sensation (tests we can perform carefully at the clinic).

Usually this type of injury is caused by the cat’s tail going under a car tyre or being shut in a door, i.e. something requiring a lot more force. In these cases we usually end up amputating because the tail starts to die off or becomes continually injured. Even in this worst case scenario cats do cope fantastically well.

I’d give him 48 hours more, obviously hoping for option one, if no improvement (or if he is suddenly unhappy) bring him in for us to see, assess and treat.

(DR ALEX MELROSE, BVSC MRCVS) PN VETCARE GREY LYNN, 408 Great North Road T: 09 361 3500 www.vetcare.net.nz

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A NIGHT-IN WITH TIM WAKELY This month at Civic Video, Ponsonby, Sarah Jessica Parker is overshadowed by young Hollywood talent.

I DON’T KNOW HOW SHE DOES IT I Don’t Know How She Does It is a female centered comedy that focuses on the busy life of mother, wife and finance executive Kate Reddy. Douglas McGrath’s “Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus” storyline strips away the film’s overall appeal.

I Don’t know How She Does It failed to move me in any way; I felt the overall concept of the movie to be redundant as the film contained no real character development, especially in the male department. But then again, lets face it, Sarah Jessica Parker only knows how to play one character, and that’s Carrie Bradshaw.

Carrie Bradshaw aka Sarah Jessica Parker plays Kate, a hardworking woman, who is engrossed in her regimented lifestyle. After gaining the opportunity to work in New York, Kate struggles to handle her career and family life. Although this first world problem film does seem a little grating; there are a few laughs tucked in there to get you by. This film is a definite watch for SJP Fans. If you are not a fan of SJP’s “witchy” look features, then don’t watch it.

THE ART OF GETTING BY The Art of Getting By is an organic adolescent film packed full of vegetables that teens will like. The film is an expressive light art house film that paints youth as misunderstood creatures rather than as juvenile delinquents.

This Sundance Film Festival piece draws the viewer into the mind of self-absorbed artistic daydreamer George Zinavoy. George goes through life literally just getting by.

However, his world quickly changes when he meets Sally (Emma Roberts), a girl from his school, who he takes the rap for. From that moment on, George begins a delayed journey of self-discovery in a quest to find something that he truly believes in.

The acting in this film went far beyond my expectations. Freddie Highmore and Emma Roberts are the clear standouts in the film; as they personify realistic daydreamers that are relatable.

Across the board this film clearly solidifies itself into the new generation of the misunderstood teen film movement; it is expressive, captivating and a little bit haunting.

IN TIME You don’t have to be a genius to figure out the underlying philosophy in Andrew Niccol’s creation. In Time is set in a world where time is money, and money is time; just about anyone would do anything to get their hands on it.

Will Salas (Justin Timberlake) finds himself in a lot of trouble after unused time is given to him. Now the timekeeper, the authority in the universe, is hot on his trail. Shortly after this, Salas becomes involved with Sylvia Weiss (Amanda Seyfried), a rich socialite who after being kidnapped by the fallen hero, opens her eyes to the reality that she has been constantly guarded from.

The movie is packaged with lots of action – and yes – guns are on the menu.

In Time, is just another notch in Justin Timberlake’s star of movie roles, however, the same can’t be said for Amanda Seyfried whose role seemed a little bit out of her preferred character.

Although some girls may like this film; In Time is definitely aimed at the boys.

(TIM WAKELY) PN

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PONSONBY U3A MEETING - MARCH 2012

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF KELLY TARLTON’S JAMES THOMAS, THE SPEAKER STATED THAT, “ESSENTIALLY MY TALK will be on ‘A day in the life at Kelly Tarlton’s’.” He certainly proved highly entertaining starting with informing the members about the history and how, what is now a vibrant and busy underworld, 27 years ago was an old sewer, Kelly Tarlton grew up to be super active; if any single quality characterised Kelly’s life, it would be his enthusiasm for exploring unfamiliar places and new ideas.

He had the typical New Zealand attitude of ‘can do’. He became an expert underwater photographer and wondered how could this wonderful underworld be brought to the thousands without them getting wet. He then embarked on a big research project looking at all the various aquariums throughout the world.

New Zealand should have an aquarium but a possible site in Paihia proved to be the wrong location as well as the Auckland Viaduct Basin and so the sewer along Tamaki Drive would seem to be the ideal place. It was just a matter of braving the knee deep muck, the rats and getting down to the work of cleaning it out together with a trusty band of helpers. Fortunately, the council was agreeable and gave them an Agreement for 27 years.

Of course there were many trials and tribulations to get the Underworld into being; one being the fish tanks to be curved into a long tunnel effect. Never daunted, Kelly sourced acrylic sheets from a German company and bought 32 tons of very large sheets; he then trialled baking small pieces in his oven at home and bending it. In this way he was able to perfect the treatment and then find a company who could bake the very large sheets that form the acrylic tanks that we see today.

Kelly Tarlton’s Underworld opened on 25 January 1985 and 250,000 people were budgeted for in the first year. However, only 100,000 actually passed through the entrance. Sadly Kelly died at the very early age of 47. This amazing man was about to carry on with bigger ideas – i.e. the Penguins and the Scott Base in the entrance. What a fabulous and successful resource we New Zealanders have.

James then went on to talk about the amazing learning curve he experienced whilst on a trip to Antarctica, the coldest windiest place on earth and how he viewed the penguins that are in Kelly Tarlton’s in their natural habitat – the King, the second largest of the 17 species in the world and not very active, and the Gentoo, the third largest and very active and cheeky. He returned from his trip inspired.

How could our members, in turn, not be inspired by James’ superb talk. Visits to Kelly Tarlton’s will be high on the ‘to do’ list. Firstly to get an idea of what living conditions were like for the early explorers, 26 men living in Robert Falcon Scott’s hut for two years. This hut was built in 1995 based on the existing museum display that is still on Ross Island in Antarctica. Then to learn about their experiences and hardships; also to be charmed by the penguins and be wowed by the many exotic fish and have the 101 questions answered about their placing in the various tanks and why.

Kelly Tarlton’s will be seeing a number of members after such an entertaining and fascinating talk.

The mysterious subject of Gill Marris’s ten minute talk was revealed at the meeting and was indeed most interesting. Entitled “A Tale from Greece” she made the members very envious with her description of island hopping in Greece and ending up in Crete to coincide with the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Crete. There she got chatting to an English couple, Peter and Belinda Blunt.

Then followed an account of how Peter’s father was Military Attache at the British Embassy in Athens.

In April 1941 units of the German army invaded Greece. On 20 April the decision was made to evacuate British and Dominion forces to Crete and to Egypt.

By the end of the month the swastika was flying on the Acropolis in Athens.

The king and his royal family and other British personnel withdrew to Crete, so remaining on national soil in order not to appear to be abandoning his country.

Gill then went on to tell the members the rest of the little known history of how New Zealand played a small role in the turbulent world of Greek politics.

The next meeting for the Ponsonby U3A will be held on Friday 13 April at the Leys Institute and Nick Paterson, the General Manager of the Serious Fraud Office will be the speaker. PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT WHITESPACE Until 14 April KATHRYN STEVENS: SHIFT Local artist Kathryn Stevens has gone from studying engineering to completing a BFA in painting and also works as a make up artist. This diverse range of interests comes together in her new exhibition; Shift at Whitespace.

Stevens’ paintings are inspired by architecture, construction and engineering in the ever changing urban environment.

Stevens’ paintings are constructions of pictorial space employing an implied three -dimensional structure on the two-dimensional plane. The paintings also explore the effect of colour on our reading of the structure present on the canvas. The result is work that generates a sense of depth, underpinned by mathematical precision.

‘SURGE’, 2011, Kathryn Stevens, 1200 x 1000mm, oil and flashe vinyl on canvas.

In her current exhibition SHIFT she explores the relative dominance of the frameworks or grids, giving the space inside the painting a temporary quality. This emphasises the act of looking as the focus shifts between the two grids. The interface between viewer and painting is more evident: we are looking from a real space into a possible one.

MEREDITH COLLINS: FINDING ME, FINDING YOU “For me, creating begins with the simple love of painting people, painting skin and the light in someone’s eyes. Yet painting one person’s portrait involves somehow painting every person; that somewhere in us dwells a common aspect that we can recognise, even if only subconsciously.

Portraiture has always fascinated me and it’s the paintings of people that attract me in galleries and museums time and time again. The faces, the emotions, the struggles and love; they’re all so familiar. Even though these paintings are not of me, they might as well be. Is it narcissism? No, it’s a recognition that the essence of you is also the essence of me.” PN WHITESPACE, 12 Crummer Road T: 09 361 6331 www.whitespace.co.nz

SHOWING AT GOW LANGSFORD GALLERY BERNAR VENET Until 14 April

‘TAKE ME HOME’, 2011, Meredith Collins, 1015 x 765mm oil on canvas.

France’s most accomplished sculptor Barnar Venet’s second solo exhibition with Gow Langsford Gallery includes works from two series: his well-known Arcs and more recent GRIB works. Generally speaking, Venet’s practice has been characterised by an enduring but evolutional engagement with mathematical precision and its contradictory counterpart, the uncertain. In early drawings, Venet incorporated mathematical formulae to represent rational logic and high aesthetics. These works explored the impersonal laws of physics and mathematics and in a sense, represent an attempt to liberate art from aesthetic rules.

His Arc series are eloquent examples of his works with overt mathematical associations. 218.5° Arc x 14 (2008) and 79.5° Arc x 8 (2010) both included in this exhibition, appear on the one hand fluid, as if based on penned gestures of the artist, but are grounded in a rigid stringency via their association to science and mathematics. In contrast, Venet’s Indeterminate Lines series with their organic and seemingly gestural sculptural forms, seemingly oppose the calculable and rational logic of the early paintings and Arcs. The Indeterminate Lines themselves are challenging to define – moving around them their lines appear to contract and elongate, winding in, on and around them selves. PN GOW LANGSFORD GALLERY, 26 Lorne Street, CBD T: 09 303 4290 www.gowlangsfordgallery.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LOCAL NEWS: DEIRDRE ROELANTS

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THE POET’S EMBRACE Nathan Haines was brought up listening to a lot of music and through his father he had early exposure to jazz. Kevin Haines, an accomplished acoustic bassist, played at the London Bar with Tommy Adderley all through the 80s and 90s and at a very young age, Nathan would join them in the weekends.

He also spent time performing round Auckland with his brother Joel, who is a guitarist, and they joined the group Freebass in the early 90s. By 1991 it was time for the fledgling musician to flee the nest and move to New York where he studied under saxophonists George Coleman and Joe Lovano. When he returned home, he performed regularly at ‘Cause Celebre’ and released his first solo album ‘Shift Left’ in 1994 which established him as a jazz artist.

Soon after, he moved to London where he produced his albums ‘Squire for Hire’ and Soundtravels which are classics and have established Nathan as an internationalist. He has played in major festivals and clubs throughout the world including a sell-out show at London’s famous Ronnie Scott’s Club. Back home he has recorded an album with the Auckland Symphony Orchestra and last year he played a very demanding classical piece with the Auckland Philharmonic.

This Easter weekend he will give an evening performance at the Waiheke Jazz Festival.

An enormous amount of study goes into being a jazz musician and means being involved in all genres be it electronic, classical, rock or blues. He loves the indigenous music from countries such as Spain and Mexico because it’s the music of the people and without artifice. He has just released his eighth studio album ‘The Poet’s Embrace’ which is his first live analogue jazz record. His brief to himself was to make a record that captured the spirit of the sixties music that he loved and grew up with. The producer, close friend Mike Patto, flew over from London to work on this record.

The album was recorded to a vintage tape machine which is very difficult and expensive now. In his other records he would do drums and bass in the studio, his keyboards and vocals in another room and then they’d all be knitted together, much like shooting different scenes for a film. With the invention of multi track recording you can fix mistakes. With analogue it’s doing it the old way with no over-dubs or mixing and there’s no changing what goes down to the tape. It’s much like playing to a live audience. The quartet album of his original tunes showcases Nathan’s tenor sax playing and has a warm, rich sound that will resonate with a wide audience.

Nathan’s previous albums are more of the modern style, infusing electronic music with jazz, but he’s essentially a jazz musician. He believes in terms of its genre, jazz has propelled music forward and like classical music it challenges the listener, whereas rock and roll has remained more static. He listens to a lot of classical music and likes to draw on all the inspiring twentieth century composers like Stravinsky. He received classical training himself on flute and saxophone but also sings and plays keyboard. He recalls how when he was growing up there was live music everywhere, in every bar or hotel and regrets it’s been replaced by DJ’s. He also has firm ideas about vinyl as well and regards it as a precious boutique medium. Needless to say he has a large collection he plays on traditional equipment.

ANNETTE ISBEY “PAST AND PRESENT” AT AN AGE WHEN MOST PEOPLE ARE LOOKING AT RELOCATING TO RETIREMENT villages or rest homes, artist Annette Isbey retires to her studio and paints all day every day and intends to do so until the day arrives when she can no longer wield a brush. She has recently completed a series of large portraits and is getting ready for an exhibition at Warwick Henderson Gallery that will include some of her works from the 70s, 80s, and 90s for which she is well known. “Past and Present” will run from 4 until 21 April.

Annette comes from a farming backgound and when the mother of all depressions struck in the 30s, her family fell on hard times and moved to the remote Hokianga where land was cheap and undeveloped. The school she had to attend was known in those days as a ‘native school’ and the English couple who ran it viewed the hundred Maori pupils as their servants, teaching them cooking, gardening and housework. The greatest achievement was to learn how to iron a man’s shirt! Whatever its drawbacks, Annette fell in love with the Hokianga. She says “I worked on the farm, as children did in those days, often very heavy work. I was totally in love with the beauty, wildness and the special qualities of the Hokianga of that time. I explored on foot and on horse.”

Annette’s talent was evident at an early age and she remembers getting into trouble for drawing a huge blue image on a stone wall in her grandparent’s house when she was about eight years old. Her passion for painting was put on hold for some years when she moved to Wellington to train as a dental nurse. The war had just ended and the place was flooded with returned soldiers and Jewish refugees. It was a stimulating environment and she soon came to the realisation that her career choice was a mistake.

She wanted to be a painter.

The next move was to Auckland where she graduated at the Onehunga Clinic and studied part time at Elam. Here she was taught and influenced by Lois White, John Weeks and Garth Tapper. Marriage to long term labour MP Eddie Isbey didn’t leave much time for painting but she managed to keep her oeuvre alive while rearing children and supporting Eddie’s career. In those early days MPs didn’t have secretaries so the wives took on that role for no monetary reward. It was some years before Annette was able to paint full-time. She began exhibiting in the mid-1950s but her turn in the sun arrived during the 70s and 80s. She became very active in the early modern art scene and her paintings were illustrated in Peter Cap’s book ‘New Zealand Painting since 1960 and Elva Bett’s book ‘New Zealand Art - A modern Perspective’.

Annette’s works cover several themes. Portraits are a central feature but there are also figurative and landscape subjects which spring from her formative experiences in the Hokianga, particularly her waterfall series which seems to hark back to the age of innocence. Art writers are sometimes guilty of being too erudite for the common reader.

By way of contrast, Annette’s following comment is reassuring. “I think a painting should mostly have to explain itself. The meaning should be embedded in the work. Too much explanation can stamp the life out of a work. The viewer should be allowed to make discoveries for herself or himself.” Her favourite painter is Lucien Freud. “He just went his own way, ignoring all the fashions in art and has emerged, I think as the greatest contemporary painter.”

Annette’s large, light filled studio is metres from the boundary of Auckland Zoo. She has watched zookeepers walk wildcats, pigs and even elephants past her garden. Burma and Kashin have pushed their heads through her back fence trying to reach for a lemon tree and she has photographs to prove it. How wonderful to have elephants instead of fairies at the bottom of one’s garden. Of course elephants shouldn’t be in zoos and on their behalf she has fought against the zoo’s expansion. An activist as well as a painter!

(DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

Changes lie ahead for Nathan and his wife, Jamie of Jamie’s upmarket boutique on Ponsonby Road. The shop has been very much part of their lives but he says to tap into a wider audience for his sort of music they need to relocate to London. There aren’t the famous jazz clubs here as there are overseas such as Blue Note and Ronnie Scotts, so regrettably for us the move is understandable.

We have a copy of ‘THE POET’S EMBRACE’ to give away so email info@ponsonbynews.co.nz to go into the draw. To hear an excerpt of ‘The Poet’s Embrace’ go to www.nathanhaines.com and be enchanted with what you hear. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS).

ANNETTE ISBEY and her painting of a pohutakawa in the zoo.

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ARTS + CULTURE GLENN PETERS - THE SLEEPING CAT GLENN PETERS HAS RUN SLEEPING CAT, HIS WEBSITE AND PRINT DESIGN consultancy, just off Ponsonby Road for the past 10 years. Having supplied clients’ advertisements to us for the past eight years, we felt it was time for him to tell us a little about himself and his business.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND? I’m fortunate to have pursued two very separate passions professionally, but both intrinsically linked on a creative level. As a musician I achieved international success as bass-player in 80s pop band Fanclub (but that’s another story!) A history in the sign industry has given me invaluable knowledge, designing everything from large format billboards to corporate ID and branding retail stores throughout Australasia. Mostly selftaught, I was at the forefront of technology when computers were coming to the fore as an essential tool in the design process. I formed Sleeping Cat Limited in 2008 with an established client base – all of whom are still with me today.

photography: Rachael McKenna www.rachaelhale.com

WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS? I’ve found a niche specialising in print design and websites as there seems to be a shortage of web-savvy graphic designers. Having supplied Ponsonby News for years with clients’ ads and seeing its rise in stature since the Ponsonby Community Newsletter, I was delighted when Martin, the editor suggested this interview. Fuelled

by Allpress coffee and drawing on a network of like-minded professionals for specialist illustration and web projects, I have a diverse selection of clients. Selling apples or ice -cream requires an entirely different approach to marketing high-end furniture, fashion or jewellery. It’s important to be flexible in design, stay current with rapid advances in technology and understand clients’ needs to reinforce their brand identity to its utmost potential. We recently did a ‘Kiwiana’ merchandising campaign with Mr Whippy that was a lot of fun. You can see it, along with other recent projects on www.sleepingcat.co.nz (shameless self-promotion!)

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Clean and simple aesthetic lines as exemplified by Sir Jonathan Ives in his acclaimed designs for Apple. I believe that posterity is the true test of good design, whether it’s the Michael Graves kettle for Alessi from 1984 or even the Chupa Chups logo designed

by Salvador Dali within an hour on discarded newspaper in a pavement café in 1969.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BASED IN PONSONBY? Sleeping Cat Ltd is run from my home office. My partner Penny and I have been living in Ponsonby for nearly ten years, having previously owned an apartment in the William Gummer designed Mayfair building in Parnell. Our children Finn (6) and Violet (3) are growing up here so I definitely consider Ponsonby home. The location is perfect for my business as many of my clients are also in this area.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES? CAFE? RESTAURANT? STORE? PEOPLE? Tole Street Reserve is one of Ponsonby’s best-kept secrets. I’ll often meet with clients upstairs at Dizengoff café that has a great, friendly and informal atmosphere. I’m usually met with the response “I didn’t know they had an upstairs!” Prego has been consistently good, has excellent staff and has stood the test of time when other eateries have come and gone. For local stores you can’t beat Askew for funky and sometimes quirky design pieces, Marvel for locally made, handcrafted menswear and accessories and Apartmento/Meluka for cool, contemporary furniture. My kids are my main inspiration and they bring a freshness and vitality that reminds you of what’s really important.

On a professional level, I think Steve Jobs was a fascinating, if somewhat complicated character that intuitively recognised what people wanted (often before they did) who revolutionised the entertainment and computer industries and certainly changed the way I conduct my business. PN

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JAMMING WITH JESS CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS OF ONE2ONE CAFÉ IN PONSONBY GATHERED TO celebrate twenty years of music-making in a night of lively entertainment, and free chocolate brownie, on 15 March.

Originally, country/folk singer Martha Louise and Priestley would perform each Thursday but other musicians quickly became regulars to the café’s live music scene.

One of these musicians is Craig Denham, who has been playing at One2One almost every Thursday night for about eight years. Denham thinks that One2One’s music scene is unique compared to other live music venues in Ponsonby, and attributes this to its founder. “Chris would vet everybody that played here, he wouldn’t let just anyone perform,” he said, “this helped build up a good reputation for solid music that is still strong today.”

The impromptu nature of the café is also one of its many distinguishing factors, with Denham meeting many friends and even band-mates through the collaborations the former owner would inspire.

Priestley is humble about his role in building these relationships, “Sometimes the musicians would be a bit shy, but I would push them together. People who don’t normally play with each other come together and it creates something like this,” he said, gesturing to the lively and eccentric sounds coming from the stage.

Naturally, the café developed a strong following and when current owner, Peter, took over three years ago, he was met with some doubt. However, those scared that the café would lose its musical spirit were proven wrong. “It’s a testament to Peter that he was able to keep the same vibe to the place,” said Denham. The new owner added to the musical scene by introducing Open Mic Tuesdays, Jazz Night Fridays and installing a PA system.

When it was his turn to address the audience on Thursday night, Peter spoke of his initial thoughts in taking over the café: “I saw the place, I saw the enthusiasm and

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photography: Jo Barrett

Twenty years ago Chris Priestley, co founder of Real Groovy, started up the cafe - formerly known as Atomic. For the first ten years of its existence the café was merely a daytime business but Priestley’s large musical background soon changed this.

“The music came calling,” he said, “And the Thursday music nights were started.”

1 I thought, ‘why stop that’.” And the night of the anniversary party was proof that Peter had indeed not stopped any of the musical characteristics about the café. The amount of musicians onstage kept multiplying as the night progressed and the audience was entertained by all sorts of talent- from Harmonica playing to a jazzy saxophonist.

A particularly swinging rendition of Route 66 was enough to get a few brave red-wine drinkers up and dancing.

Local journalist, Ian Sinclair, provided an expert example of flamenco guitar at its finest and the charming duo of Linn and Craig Denham busted out old favourites, ‘Ponsonby Road Song’ and ‘Karangahape Road Song’, much to the delight of regular attendees. Martha-Louise and Priestley led a warm-hearted folk/country set, allowing the audience to reminisce about older times.

All musicians on the night connected well with each other and the audience in the way that One2One is famous for.

Near the end of the night I spotted Martha-Louise, who had nothing but praise for this iconic music venue. “It’s magic, a magical place,” she said, “long may it live.”

(JESSICA MCALLEN) PN

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ONE2ONE 20TH BIRTHDAY THURSDAY, 15 MARCH, PONSONBY

ONE2ONE Café in Ponsonby (formerly known as Atomic) celebrated 20 years of being in the business of roasting and making great coffee, serving good cafe food and providing a venue for local musicians to gather for making music.

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photography: Jo Barrett

1. Former ONE2ONE owners DAVID THOMAS and CHRIS PRIESTLEY seen her with current owner PETER MARSHALL; 2. Multi talented musician CRAIG DENHAM playing piano at the ONE2ONE party last month; 3. Local journalist, IAN SINCLAIR, playing superb flamenco guitar with musician CRAIG DENHAM providing backing rhythm; 4. LINN LORKIN singing the ‘Ponsonby Road Song’. PN

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JOHN ELLIOTT: SOAP BOX REVIEW - THE ECONOMICS OF HAPPINESS A film showing how corporate-led globalisation is destroying our jobs, our environment, and our democracy.

“GOING LOCAL” IS THE WAY TO REPAIR OUR fractured world – our ecosystems, our societies, and ourselves. This is a powerful film which shows how and why we are facing an environmental crisis, an economic crisis, and a crisis of the human spirit. It was made by Helena Norberg-Hodge, author of Ancient Futures, and an economic analyst, and several colleagues.

The film describes a world moving simultaneously in two opposing directions. As governments and big business continue to push for “growth” in the form of increased global trade, we’re seeing an increase in climate chaos, senseless war, fundamentalism, financial volatility, income inequality, and the consolidation of corporate power. At the same time communities are coming together to re-build more human-scale, ecological economics based on a new paradigm – an economics of localisation.

We, in Auckland, know a bit about this because of the Grey Lynn 20-30 Transition Towns project, and while Helena Norberg-Hodge doesn’t mention the Grey Lynn farmer’s market, this is one of a number of local initiatives which the film praises.

Norberg-Hodge has spent more than 30 years studying and living with the Ladakhi people of “little Tibet”, high in the Western Himalayas. This, until recently, remote community, isolated from the entire world, lived by subsistence farming, regional trade, and a life finely tuned to the environment.

Norberg-Hodge says she learned about social, ecological and personal wellbeing, and about the roots of happiness from these people. They had a vitality and love for life, no unemployment, plenty of food. They lived a far more sustainable and rich life than we do – without all the “stuff” we have.

In the mid-70s they were thrown open to the outside world. Cheap subsidised food was trucked in on subsidised roads, by vehicles running on subsidised fuel, which totally undermined the local economy. They were subjected to advertising, images romanticising Western-style consumerism, and soon believed their own culture was pitiful, and that they were backward, primitive and poor. Very soon there was pollution, divisiveness, depression, unemployment, and a widening rich - poor gap.

Norberg-Hodge attributes this dramatic change in such a short time as a direct result of exposure to outside economic pressures. This was the Ladakhis introduction to globalisation. Globalisation is defined in the movie as “the deregulation of trade and finances in order to enable businesses and banks to operate globally.” It goes on to say that, that results in “the emergence of a single world market dominated by transnational companies.”

People may think of globalisation as something bringing us closer together, through faster communication, easier travel, etc. But at its core it’s an economic process and it’s about deregulation, freeing up big banks and big corporations to focus on profit. Now, many of those transnational companies have grown so large and powerful that they effectively control governments.

The film lists eight inconvenient truths about globalisation – it makes us unhappy, it breeds insecurity, it wastes natural resources, it accelerates climate change, it destroys livelihoods, it increases conflicts, it gives handouts to big business, and its based on false accounting. Each of these “truths” is discussed in detail, and very persuasively.

The film makers interview psychiatrists who discuss rising levels of depression, particularly in the West, the stress of trying to keep up with the Joneses – bigger, better, more. A recent survey in the USA showed that the number of Americans who are happy with their life peaked in 1956 and has been declining ever since. During those 50 years Americans have become hugely more affluent, but not happier.

An Indian author, Dr Vandana Shiva (Monocultures of the Mind) believes, “the only people who are deeply happy and deeply secure are people who know they can rely on someone else in life.”

Clive Hamilton, Australian author of Affluenza and The Growth Fetish (excellent books which I personally recommend) says, Corporations now tell kids, “We’ll provide you with a packaged identity which you can use – by buying our products of course – to create a sense of self.”

But as American author, Richard Heinberg (The End of Growth) points out, the marketing culture is so pervasive, “even if you are blonde, blue eyed, and beautiful, you’re never quite beautiful enough.” No wonder there is so much depression!

Hamilton says we need to start imagining an economy that isn’t obsessed with growth, and one that properly measures well being and prosperity – one that counts the full social, environmental and economic benefits and costs.

All experts in the movie see localisation as a major answer – abolish food miles, grow and eat local food, reduce dependence on imported and exported products in favour of production for local needs. Global business creates enormous wealth for the few, local economies can create greater wealth in ways that are both more equitable and just.

An American study of bookshops showed the locally owned shop having 45 dollars of a 100 dollar spend left in the local community - only 13 dollars left from the 100 dollar spend in a chain shop. We must work out ways to make money our servant again instead of our master, and grow locally, buy locally, and be happier as a result.

I saw Grey Lynn in action as a very positive initiative, following the types of local prescriptions the film advocates. The film quoted a study showing shoppers at a local farmers market had an average of ten times the interactions and chats that they had at the supermarket. You only have to spend half an hour at the Grey Lynn Farmer’s Market to see and hear those happy, joyous interactions.

Little old New Zealand can lead the way. (JOHN ELLIOTT) PN

SHOWING AT THE DEPOT GALLERIES CATHRYN RYAN - VIEWPOINT Until - 12 April CORRECTION: Last month in the March 2012 issue page 118 Ponsonby News ran the incorrect name of the artist for this artwork.

The artist’s name should have read CATHRYN RYAN - VIEWPOINT. THE DEPOT, 28 Clarence Street, Devonport T: 09 963 2331 www.depotartspace.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE

“Fish of the Forest” by SEAN CARTER, found wood, 40 X 85cm.

SMALL DOG GALLERY DEPOT SOUND’S mobile recording in action as they capture the band HOSPITAL SPORTS rehearsing at the Devonport Methodist Church.

SOUND RECORDING GOES MOBILE For the past few years Depot Sound have been working on developing a component of their services – mobile recording.

What does this mean? Well, their studio manager/engineer Mark Howden has been working with the concept of mobile recording for the past 10 years.

With this research and the development of current recording technologies they can offer audio engineers and mobile equipment to record your music or audio projects in practically any location or scenario you like.

Depot Sound have the best available equipment and methods so whether you’re working in home studios, garages, warehouses, churches, aircraft hangars, caves or outdoors - they can record this and produce truly professional results. They then take this material back to the studio, process it through their equipment (mix/master) and return it to you at unbelievable speed and efficiency – you won’t believe the results!

Whether you are looking to record a demo CD or album, at home, an orchestral concert, live gig, presentation, seminar, theatre production, film-soundtrack and/or foley sounds – they can help you out!

THE DEPOT WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME YOU TO SMALL DOG GALLERY, a gallery dedicated to showing the works of Depot members. Situated street front at the Depot, Small Dog offers you fresh and affordable contemporary New Zealand art and objects. Small Dog’s key point of difference is a low commission rate which means more affordable artworks, and also ensures the lion’s share of any purchase goes to the artist.

Small Dog Gallery is also proud to present an exciting new initiative, Artist of the Month.

Each month one area of the gallery is devoted to the work of a particular individual.

The inaugural artist of the month was Katherine Batchelor who celebrates a near sell -out exhibition of whimsical ceramics and mixed media works.

This month’s artist is Sean Carter, an intriguing creator who makes life like forms with natural found objects. To view Sean’s work and to check out other unique, contemporary, affordable art works please feel free to visit the gallery or to view our blog via The Depot website www.depotartspace.co.nz. They welcome new members including art enthusiasts, and collectors and are always on the lookout for new artists, so don’t hesitate to contact THE DEPOT for more information.

SHOWING AT DEPOT GALLERIES JOHN COLEY: DOUBLE VISION – NIGHTLIGHTS PAINTINGS AND CUT PAPER COLLAGES 14 April - 3 May; Opening: Sunday 15 April 11am – 2pm

Depot Sound have a range of packages on offer from their basic hourly rate charge of $60 per hour (price includes GST), which includes an engineer and all associated costs such as transport within Auckland. They can also provide project rates and quotes if you’re working on a bigger project or just exploring the possibilities. PN

This exhibition celebrates John Coley’s triumph over macular degeneration, a loss of vision that caused him to find new ways of engaging in art making, a large part of his life for six decades. This exhibition focuses on his latest cut paper works, formal abstractions which communicate John’s pleasure in the act of art making. Alongside this work he will exhibit his earlier oil paintings ‘Nightlights’, depicting visual memories of the city at night as well as his superb illustrated travel journals. PN

For more information contact: Mark Howden, T: 09 963 2331 M: 021 0276 3652 or email to depotsound@gmail.com www.depotsound.co.nz

THE DEPOT, 28 Clarence Street, Devonport T: 09 963 2331 www.depotartspace.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE

CULTURAL MAPPING PROJECT EXHIBITION 10 -30 AUGUST The Cultural Mapping Project (CMP) exhibition will be one show where you’ll want to see and do things. It will feature a range of mapping examples from the literal to the expressive: informative, audio, painterly and sculptural maps will be on show, including artist Dean Buchanan’s two maps of Lone Kauri Road, and composer Alex Taylor’s audio map of New Zealand composers. Likewise, visitors will get to contribute to other evolving cultural maps.

The exhibition will take place across two venues in Devonport (The Depot on Clarence Street and The National Vernacular Museum) and will be accompanied by a programme of activities. In the lead up to the exhibition The Depot will be hosting a cultural mapping workshop introducing mapping processes through practical examples.

The Cultural Mapping Project was inspired by the Cultural Icons series. Email Project Coordinator Erin Forsyth erin.forsyth@depotartspace.co.nz for more information.

CULTURAL ICONS The Depot’s Cultural Icons project recently launched the 51st instalment of this highly successful series of online video and audio interviews with some of New Zealand’s most celebrated architects, artists, actors, philanthropists, film makers, photographers, and more.

The website, which has amassed upwards of 40 thousand hits per month, features recorded chats between New Zealand’s cultural icons as they are interviewed by either a friend or a contemporary and they discuss the influences, life and passions that have led them to make a mark on the New Zealand vernacular.

In the latest interview Roger Horrocks (film maker, author and influential mover and shaker in the world of film and television in New Zealand) speaks candidly about the beat poets, philosophy, jazz, studying in Berkeley during the tumultuous 60s, and the fateful encounter with Len Lye which led him to write his biography and, most currently, a libretto based on his life for an upcoming opera by Eve de Castro Robinson. PN This month will see Cultural Icons release an interview with Quentin MacFarlane and John Coley on the eve of the latter’s exhibition at the Depot. www.culturalicons.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

“Welcome” by MARK CURTIS, glitter installation, 1 x 1.5 meters.

‘WELCOME’ – A GROUP EVENT THAT YOU ARE INVITED TO BE A PART OF… 21 APRIL FROM 2-4 PM The last lick of paint has almost dried, all the furniture has arrived and the artworks have begun to move across land and sea as they prepare to open Satellite Gallery.

The time has come for them to welcome you into Satellite to experience what they have to offer to inspire, support and nurture creative talent. They have set up an event with the intention of not only exhibiting a wide pool of talent, but also to show how creative people live, work and play.

Feel free to join them to experience the amazing potential of Satellite Gallery and to view or purchase works of art by creative talents such as; Mark Curtis, James R Ford, Erin Forsyth, Mia Hamilton, Geoff Hedley, Jasmine McCracken, Julian McKinnon, Greg Page, Antoinette Ratcliffe, Leon Rose, Rebecca Ross, Bevan Shaw, Raewyn Turner and Rodney Wilson.

SATELLITE’S CALL FOR PROPOSALS IS BACK! If you are a creative individual or group wishing to present work at Satellite send your proposal in now. Proposals may be for a new or touring exhibition or a performance based project. Satellite Gallery develops a proportion of its programme from proposals and is always open to interesting ideas that broaden the relationship to art and the way it is viewed or experienced.

Get your proposal in today or for enquiries about submitting a proposal please contact: gallery@satellitegallery.co.nz PN SATELLITE GALLERY, St Benedict’s Street, Newton T: 09 307 6416 www.satellitegallery.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT MASTERWORKS GALLERY 19 April – 16 May Preview: Wednesday 18 April from 5.30pm JOHN DAWSON AND HILARY BEAUCHAMP - BOMBARDES, TUBAS AND TRUMPETS

Porcelain Vessels by JOHN DAWSON

Ceramicist John Dawson brings us his latest body of works in thrown and assembled porcelain.

Decorated with a celadon glaze, some of the pieces also display the drawings of artist Hilary Beauchamp. There will be close to 30 pieces in the exhibition; mostly vases, the forms of which were inspired by John’s love of music and reference the reed stops on a pipe organ.

Hilary’s drawings were inspired by the tattoos of inmates in London’s Holloway Prison, where both Hilary and John teach art and ceramics. John initially trained in the organ and harpsichord at the Trinity College of Music in London. He later studied for a postgraduate Diploma in Ceramics from Goldsmith College in London.

Hilary has an arts degree from the Royal College of Art. She was awarded an MBE for her services to the Arts in Holloway Prison.

CRAIG MCINTOSH Funnel wood, paint, wax cord, sterling silver

THINKSPACE – FRANCES STACHL AND CRAIG MCINTOSH PICKING A FIGHT: Crossing the line of constructive criticism into the dodgy space of outright idea pilfering.

This exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the creative practice and shared critique of contemporary jewellers and couple Frances Stachl and Craig McIntosh. Working and exhibiting independently from one another for many years, Frances and Craig rarely discuss each other’s work in depth; and prefer not to listen to criticism from one another.

“It is somehow too personal”, they explain. However “we both appreciate what the other does and for this work we have chosen aspects, ideas and materials of each other’s work to remake as our own...This show is about changing a little, and having a sly dialogue about the nature of each other’s work as we see it.” Both Frances and Craig completed their training at Whitireia Polytechnic and are now based in Paekakariki.

JOHN LAWRENCE - MASKS For this collection of colourful and humorous masks, John Lawrence was inspired by seeing a girl putting on lipstick and saying “I can’t start the day without putting a brave face on things.” This prompted John to research masks and the culture of putting on an appearance.

Mask by JOHN LAWRENCE

The beautiful masks are made using a wide range of ceramic techniques.

Materials include paper clay with coloured aggregates, oxides and painted colours.

John was born in England and graduated from Wimbledon School of Art. He has worked in studios in Finland, the UK and in France, and helped establish a ceramics department at Luton School of Art. Lawrence has lived in New Zealand since 1965 and is based in Dannevirke.

Tiny Pasta Has No Place In The Kitchen by FRANCES STACHL, fishing line, pasta

JEWELLERY BOX – KRISTIN D’AGOSTINO - TAKEAWAYS Kristin D’Agostino is an Auckland based jeweller interested in the social role that jewellery plays in every day interactions.

She says “I am fascinated by the variations of emotions and ideas Brooch by KRISTIN D’AGOSTINO attached to objects that the maker creates and the wearer takes away. Obscured structures and obtuse materials are devices I employ to engage the viewer and invite them into the realm of personal, social theatre.”

In this new work, Kristin has utilised plastic take-away containers, which resulted from the artist’s search for a quiet material that took into consideration notions of re-use and recycling. Constructing these disused objects into 2D and 3D forms, Kristin was intrigued by the process of changing these forms into things of beauty demanding our observation and appreciation. PN MASTERWORKS GALLERY, 77 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 1256 www.masterworksgallery.com enquire@masterworksgallery.com

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT BLACK ASTERISK MELINDA BUTT - STRANGE ATTRACTIONS 6 – 19 April Preview: 5 April 6.30pm

Alternately literal and conceptual, drawing on familiar religious or pagan signposts, these works reconstruct ideals of what is considered safe in a world full of sideshows.

Anderson’s unique perspective on life emphasises the fine line between grisly phenomena, and the freakish dark nature of things.

The carnival, like religion, uses illusion to deceive the public as it promises stupendous, superhuman acts. Yet as we are lured into the fair our innermost fantasies are played out by flamboyant, peculiar characters. Life really happens in the shady alleyways between the caravans of the carnival.

Melinda Butt’s new body of work is an illustration of energy, which incorporates the virtues of abstract expression. Clues to these energies and virtues are firmly posited in the name given to her body of work “the title alludes to ‘Strange Attractor’ and chaos theory, the notion of intangible forces.

Sideshow Emporium is a realm where macabre games, nursery rhymes and anthropomorphised animals are particularly disturbing. ‘Virgin Ink’ juxtaposes tattooism and Roman Catholic worship to explore female veneration. ‘Our Lady of Fortune’ – The ultimate Siren fairground attraction, marrying gypsy with circo-pagan ritual.

Through a soothing aesthetic, which offers escapism, and a vast scope for interpretation, Melinda presents paintings that are a challenge with charm. “My aim has always been to provide a range of emotions through visually pleasing work and simplicity is a great vehicle for delivering that motive” explains Butt “The economy of the imagery allows the work to communicate very purely and directly.”

“I like to use encrypted messages amidst the text and backgrounds,” says Anderson. “Rich, lush colours create patina and atmosphere; a feeling of deterioration.”

SIMONE ANDERSON - SIDESHOW EMPORIUM 21 April - 3 May Preview: 20 April 6.30pm Curious Amusements, Oddities and Marvels –Simone Anderson presents a mixed media carnival of nostalgic works wittily revealing the connected inner reality lurking between the outward veneer of freaks, human marvels and oddities.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Anderson toys with these characters contemplating the suggestion that true monstrosities lurk in packages of exquisite beauty. These sensational tawdry icons do not include clowns – Anderson has a primal abhorrence to them, finding them sinister and shuddersome. Anything else is possible. PN Virgin Ink by SIMONE ANDERSON, Mixed media on recycled wood panel, 850 x 1000

BLACK ASTERISK GALLERY, 10 Ponsonby Road M: 021 040 1168 www.blackasterisk.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT MOMENTUM GALLERY

SHOWING AT LETHAM GALLERY

NEAL PALMER - WOVEN PATHS This work was awarded a Merit Award in the Molly Morpeth 2010 Art Awards. The image has also been used by the World of Wearable Arts as a backdrop to a touring exhibition of outstanding costumes from the show; and has been reproduced by the artist as a limited edition print (Vivera ink on Hahnemule fine art paper). It is part of a series of work investigating the formal possibilities and resulting interpretations using the looping, weaving, reflective surface and depth of Harakeke. Neal also has an interest in the emotional ties of Flax for most New Zealanders, from early childhood games and memories to a crafts/costume base material (it was even a form of currency in early colonial times).

THE STOCK ROOM SALE 5 – 15 April This month Letham Gallery brings you the overlooked, the hidden gems, the holy grail of ‘the other room’ in The Stock Room Sale. Works by Beatrice Carlson, Dale Gilmore, Frances Van Dammen, Jenny McLeod, Johnny Romeo, Madeline Beasley, Penny Howard, Sam Broad and more, all at up to 10 – 30% off! Letham Gallery is proud to introduce a gallery quality, competitively priced framing service for anything you need framing.

GREG PAGE - THE MALE GAZE 17 April – 1 May; Preview: 17 April 6pm

GREG STRAIGHT - TWO SNAPPER - RED Two Snapper - Red is a new limited edition screen print inspired by the New Zealand ocean. Everyone loves fish and chips and Greg thinks the best fish in the world is the snapper. Looks great and tastes even better. In this print he was interested in experimenting with smaller geometric shapes with in the fishes body and wanted to illustrate flax and other ornate hand drawn patterns. It is a mix of bold and decorative shapes and originally started life as just one fish but looked lonely so he added another. Even though they appear to have had a lovers tiff its more balanced with two snapper.

SHANE HANSEN - PANIA_&_FRIENDY This piece is a cross-over and it ties in to Shane’s Pania series but also is part of the Friendy series.

This portrays Pania of the Reef as a toddler.

She strikes the famous pose as she sits with arm around Friendy. He is smaller in this image, more the size of a pet lamb. She is more relaxed with him and he dominates the image less as her connection to her culture is stronger. The two are a team, creating mischief together and celebrating the joys of childhood. Her hair is wispy like a gentle sea breeze, portraying the innocence and adventure of being young. Her head leans towards Friendy as a symbol of togetherness. Her hand rests on the grass showing stability of place and pride in culture.

MARK COMPTON - THE CUP In creating this image, Mark never imagined it would be easy to make this subject matter ‘cute’... but somehow he has. This cup says it all really...at least all the things that he can’t actually say but is really excited about! There is a Rugby Player and Ball, then a globe more commonly known as the World. All of this on a Cup that was created in 2011... what could it all be talking about? PN MOMENTUM GALLERY AND FRAMING, 182 Jervois Road T: 09 376 4749 www.momentumgallery.co.nz

Greg Page returns to Letham Gallery with a brand new exhibition of works, paintings about both players in the ‘perve exchange’. Contextually heavy, light-hearted abstraction of the human figure is Page’s niche, and those familiar with his intensely eye-engaging works will not be disappointed.

The male gaze is the super power all men are gifted; It is the ability to spot the sensual curve of a female hip, or the bounce of a jogging girl’s breasts at over 400 metres, or the super fast ability to snap a hi-res mental image and move on without being caught.

Page has become acutely aware of his own gaze and has taken time to look around and see who else is using theirs.

In Greg’s opinion, “My own gaze is programmed for taller curvy women, mostly brunettes. I guess that’s my ‘type’ and I make no excuse. These paintings are based on the women I’ve seen and men I witnessed watching. The paintings are about sneaking a look and letting your imagination fill in the gaps.” PN LETHAM GALLERY, 35 Jervois Road T: 09 360 5217 www.lethamgallery.co.nz

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PETER WILLIAMS QC – BOOK LAUNCH, PONSONBY Local Ponsonby resident, Peter Williams QC, held a party last month to launch his book ‘Nemesis to Prejudice’ and a number of locals were present, including several Ponsonby lawyers who were happy to give Winston Peters words of advice before he headed back to Parliament.

1. Hon Winston Peters, Sara Orme and Peter Williams QC; 2. Niki Porner, Hon Winston Peters, Kate Mora, Heeni Phillips, Helen Talbot and Vivienne Feyen.

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BARE WAXING, GREY LYNN TUESDAY 22 MARCH Bare Waxing & Skin Centre held a ‘Great Skin, Great Cause’ event.

Part of Dermalogica’s FITE (Financial Independence Through Entrepreneurship) programme, the evening saw guests enjoy mini treatments, Face Mapping® skin

analysis, treatment and product giveaways, special salon offers, wine and nibbles and goodie bags. They were also able to purchase specially marked Dermalogica products to receive a unique FITE code which in turn helps unlock a Dermalogica-funded micro loan to a woman entrepreneur in a part of the world of the Bare guest’s choosing.

1. Xuan Lim and Kinga Czegany; 2. Sam Brackenridge, Nesh Pillay and Hilke Kaufhold; 3. Caroline Parker (Head of Education, Dermalogica), Kajal Lachhani and Sandy DeGrut; 4. Mahia Miller (Salon Manager) and Vivianne Bryant (Salon Owner).

OUT + ABOUT The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

Outlets PONSONBY NEWS

+

FREEMANS BAY

Glengarry, Cnr Sale and Wellesley Streets Kellands Real Estate, 4 Drake Street New World, Victoria Park Sale St, 7 Sale Street

GREY LYNN

Barfoot & Thompson, 533 Great North Road Barkley Manor, 400 - 402 Great North Road Grey Lynn Community Centre, 520 Richmond Road Grey Lynn Community Library, 474 Great North Road Raw Essentials, 401B Richmond Road Ripe, 172 Richmond Road Sliced,104 Richmond Road Tapac, Motions Road Vetcare, 408 Great North Road

HERNE BAY

Five Loaves & 2 Fish, 206 Jervois Road Icing on the Cake, 188 Jervois Road

KINGSLAND

Atomic, 420c New North Road

MT EDEN

Citta Outlet Store, Corner Enfield & Normanby Road Sabato, 57 Normanby Road April 20122012 130 PONSONBY NEWS+ February

PONSONBY NEWS is published on the first Friday of each month excluding January. Copies go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets. The issue is also published on our website www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

NEWMARKET

Planet Ayurveda, 41 Gillies Avenue Studio Italia, 96 Carlton Gore Road Taylor Boutique, 1 Teed Street

NEWTON

Benediction Café, 30 St Benedicts Street Design 55, 55 Upper Queen Street

PARNELL

Jane Daniels, 2 Birdwood Cresent Essenze, 285 Parnell Road Parnell Community Centre, 545 Parnell Road

PONSONBY

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The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH April 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+ DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH February

131

132 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2012

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