PONSONBY NEWS - APRIL '22

Established: OCTOBER 1989

CELEBRATING 32 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

APRIL 2022

APARTMENT SPECIAL ISSUE

THE FEYNMAN’S HANNAH CHIARONI-CLARKE TALKS ABOUT OCKHAM’S LATEST DEVELOPMENT- P64

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RAISING THE ROOF: THE FEYNMAN’S FABULOUS COMMUNAL SPACES

Artist's Impression

Thoughtful — and considerable — community spaces are an Ockham hallmark. The company’s latest development, The Feynman, takes this commitment to community to the next level.

The views will be glorious. Head to the residents’ rooftop lounge before breakfast — you may get away with a dressing gown — and sip on a coffee as the sun sneaks up, brushing Tāmaki Makaurau with tender, early-morning light. Below you, the day gathers pace; you can see the good people of Ponsonby pitching up to cafés, the Grey Lynn folk — lycracladded, cross-fitted, power-dog-walking — in the park below. You contemplate joining them but decide instead to take a dawn dip in the pool, followed by a spot of yoga on the deck. This is the life. This is The Feynman.

Superb community spaces are an Ockham signature move.

The Isaac in Surrey Crescent includes three residents’ lounges with great outdoor decks, each with panoramic views.

The Turing just up the road enjoys even more sumptuous views from its shared quarters, along with a lounge and separate billiards room. Other Ockham buildings come with swimming pools, landscaped gardens, residents’ libraries, bookable guest rooms and work-from-home offices. But The Feynman, Ockham’s new development along the Great North Road ridgeline, boasts the company’s most impressive community facilities to date.

Prioritising the commons “As we’ve gotten more experienced at Ockham, we’ve learnt a lot about building apartment buildings,” Ockham captain Mark Todd says. “You really need to embed the commons in the building so the community has got a space that is of value, that is its heart. We’ve dedicated the rooftop, which is the very best space, as common space. It’s a very natural thing to do.”

With sweeping views across the city toward the Waitematā harbour, the rooftop is definitely a space where people will want to congregate. And so it has been kitted it out with two separate residents’ lounges, each complete with kitchens, bar spaces and casual seating.

“I really wanted the rooftop space to capture the feeling of a luxury hotel,” says architectural designer Hannah ChiaroniClarke. “These spaces can accommodate several small groups or one really large group. There are lots of interesting pockets and places to mingle.”

There’s also a 6 x 3.6m heated outdoor plunge pool, which has a shallow kids’ pool in a tier alongside. The pools are set amongst a whopping 478m2 of outdoor decks and gardens.

It’s a vast space, almost two tennis courts in size — ideal for a sunbathe, a sundowner, or, for the yogis, a sun salute.

An extremely cool (heated) pool “The rooftop heated pool is probably the coolest in the city,” Hannah adds. “And having a shallower pool is great for kids or grandkids. There are so many different uses for the event space as well. You could book it out for a private personal training session, a yoga class or even a movie night.”

For added interest, there are two pergolas entwined with climbing plants, which add visual intrigue and shade; while a third, with louvre technology, opens and closes according to weather, whims and the overall vibe.

The community facilities aren’t confined to the rooftop though. There’s a work-from-home office, ideal for conducting meetings, and two bookable guest rooms on the ground floor for VIP guests.

“Having those guest rooms available means that even if you don’t have a spare room, there’s always somewhere for friends and family to stay,” Hannah continues.

“What I really love about this development is there is something for everyone, and whether you buy a studio or penthouse you will have access to what I believe are the best apartment communal areas in the country.”

Like to know more about The Feynman? Our fiercely objective website www.ockham.co.nz has heaps of info, and our Joss Lewis – 021 245 5155 / joss@ockham.co.nz – will talk fixtures, fittings and floorplans for days!

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ART HOUSE: MAKING YOUR APARTMENT YOUR OWN A decade ago, a Christchurch couple traded their five-bedroom home for an apartment at Ockham’s The Isaac. They’ve never looked back.

The large, light-filled kitchen was a huge drawcard for Tina and Mark Ross when they were looking at buying their apartment at The Isaac in 2013. This wasn’t just because they both love to cook and entertain guests, but because the space could double as an art studio for Tina.

lounge that clinched the deal at The Isaac. “It was the roof that got me. Pre-Covid, every Saturday and Sunday I would go up there at some point to either lie in the sun, make it look like I was exercising, or just take myself, my music and my beer or wine and park up.

“So many of the kitchens we saw in other apartment buildings were so pokey,” Tina says. “Not really big enough for cooking in and certainly not big enough to paint in!” She laughs: “I’ve spent many hours at that kitchen bench — mixing paint, experimenting and then changing my mind completely.

Some of my favourite works have taken shape here.”

“There’s a group of us that had drinks there every Sunday as part of a community ritual. We’d go head up there, enjoy a wine and soak up that amazing view.”

The glamour of deep purple Tina’s bold abstract and landscape paintings are built on a layering process of colour and texture and she has added similar artistic touches to the couple’s two-bedroom apartment.

“I love playing with colour,” she says. “With the apartment, we painted the back walls of the kitchen black to add some contrast; included some beautiful deep purple in the lounge; and I’ve thrown in some different textures, like the wallpaper.

Of course, there’s also a lot of artwork around the place, not all of it mine!”

Both Tina and Mark say it wasn’t easy to choose which furniture would make the cut to be included in the apartment.

“We moved from a five-bedroom house in Christchurch,” Mark explains, “so we had to get rid of two-thirds of our furniture. That certainly wasn’t easy. But this place was a lot bigger than the other apartments we’d been looking at. Plus, we’ve got a storage locker, so we could take our time parting with some things.”

Rooftop rituals (and faux exercise) For Mark, it was the fully landscaped community rooftop

Tina agrees that a big part of The Isaac’s appeal lies in the camaraderie of the residents. “We’d heard that people don’t talk to each other in apartment buildings. But actually, it’s a very warm, social environment. People are always organising group events or barbecues to get people engaged. There’s a real mix of ages here and there's a few people who are on their own, so it’s nice for everyone to enjoy monthly drinks or a twice-annual event.”

Proximate to Ponsonby Their apartment comes with a carpark and Tina does own a car but confesses it’s really just a shopping trolley. “I walk everywhere. It’s a 20-minute walk to Ponsonby or 40 minutes into the city. I can just stroll to the West Lynn shops or to dinner at Lokanta. I really only use my car for the grocery run. It’s funny because when we moved from Christchurch, we initially thought The Isaac was too far from the city. I can’t believe we thought that now.”

After eight years at The Isaac, the couple currently have their home on the market, but will remain part of the Ockham family as they’ve bought an apartment off the plans in The Greenhouse in Ponsonby. As Tina puts it: “For someone like me, who has a deep love of colour and beautiful designs, a home in a building made with 150,000 green-glazed bricks is simply impossible to resist.”

“IT WAS THE ROOF THAT GOT ME. EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY I WOULD GO UP THERE AT SOME POINT TO EITHER LIE IN THE SUN, MAKE IT LOOK LIKE I WAS EXERCISING, OR JUST TAKE MYSELF, MY MUSIC AND MY BEER OR WINE AND PARK UP.” – ISAAC RESIDENT, MARK ROSS

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INSIDE THIS MONTH

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LETTERS & EMAILS

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FROM THE EDITOR

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DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

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PIPPA COOM: AUCKLAND COUNCILLOR

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ROSS THORBY: CRUISING ON LAND

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CHLÖE SWARBRICK: MP AUCKLAND CENTRAL

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HELEN WHITE, LABOUR LIST MP

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PREDICT WEATHER.COM

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PONSONBY PARK

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

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GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

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FASHION + STYLE

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

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FUTURE GENERATION

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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

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HELENE RAVLICH: APARTMENT LIVING

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Advertising Sales: JO BARRETT M: 021 324 510 joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz

COVER STORY: OCKHAM’S LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS

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ARTS & CULTURE

Advertising Sales/Ad Designer: MELISSA PAYNTER M: 027 938 4111 melissapaynter@me.com

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HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS

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STREAMING GUIDE APRIL 2022

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THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

P60: Apartment & Townhouse living on the fridge - Grant Sanderson of Bluzone Group Mural by Jonny 4 Higher. E: jonny@graffitimurals.co.nz

Editor/Publisher: MARTIN LEACH M: 021 771 147 martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz Distribution Manager: JAY PLATT M: 021 771 146 jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz Ad Sales & Contributing editor: ANDREA KAHUKIWA M: 021 689 688 andrea@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Operations Manager: GWYNNE DAVENPORT M: 021 150 4095 gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz Contributing Music Editor: Finn McLennan-Elliott M: 021 134 4101 finn.huia@gmail.com Contributing Editor: JOHN ELLIOTT M: 021 879 054 johnelliott38@outlook.com Graphic Designer: ARNA MARTIN M: 021 354 984 arna@cocodesign.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS is published monthly, excluding January by: ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED, P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144, T: 09 378 8553, www.ponsonbynews.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS is printed on paper sourced from sustainable, well managed forests and manufactured under the environmental management system ISO 14001.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

BLAIR HADDOW LOVING, LIVING & SELLING GREATER PONSONBY Blair Haddow 021 544 555 blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/blair-haddow BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Westmere 3A Hope Street Auction 2pm, Wed 6 April 22 (unless sold prior)

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SOLD

Grey Lynn 17 Harcourt Street Auction 2pm, Wed 13 April 22 (unless sold prior)

Freemans Bay 3 Ryle Street Sold $3,275,000

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LETTERS & EMAILS

IN THE TWILIGHT OF YEARS

In the twilight of his years I often sit with my 90 year old dad on the bench at the end of Garnet Road looking out to sea.

On the fringe of the inner harbour we watch the seabirds fossick for food. It is a picture of peace.

But across our city, winds of change blow. Plans to sweep away our heritage suburbs are mandated by central government, a proclamation not a consultation. It has been decided Tamaki Makaurau will accept another million souls over the next 30 years. We will grow up and out and we will build a “world class” transport system and they will come.

‘Bolder Bunny’ having a cuddle before going to his furever home RABBIT RESCUE FROM WESTERN SPRINGS

I am a vegan activist and a tree protector. I protested against the felling of Western Springs Forest because of all the life that would, and sadly did, lose their homes and families. Veganism is a belief that ALL life is important, non-human and human.

I had my attention bought to the plight of the rabbits at Western Springs Park when Auckland Council announced they were going to shoot rabbits. I am against the shooting of wild rabbits. I think sterilisation is the answer, not mass slaughter.

Here there were also domestic rabbits that had been dumped by thoughtless people who had become bored with their pets.

I went for a number of walks around the lake to find the dumped domestic rabbits. They were jolly hard to find. Thank goodness Gael got the shoot postponed.

Caleb and I caught two domestic rabbits on the last two days before Auckland Council’s shoot started. The first cute little fluffy grey one, we trapped in a ditch surrounded by boulders so we called him Bolder. He is now happily homed with a menagerie of other pets and a family. The next morning with helpers, we caught Burrow by digging with a stone and a stick further down his burrow. Sadly, his health wasn’t very good and he had a stay at the vet before being placed in a furever home.

If only the people who dumped these pet rabbits in the park thought about how cruel their actions were as their needs are very different from wild rabbits. They will either die from malnutrition or abscesses from fighting with wild rabbits, or be shot with wild rabbits by Auckland Council’s pest control.

In this climate of slick power points and overwritten reports the winners are the faceless consultants, ticking boxes and signing cheques to preferred suppliers. My dad will not live to see the utopia promised in the council propaganda. He will be spared the war zone of rebuilding, the brutal modernist apartments for the needy. He will not feel the pain of ancestral native trees felled in the name of affordable housing.

Caffeine fuelled councillors will promise parks and open green spaces but the budgets will be slashed, and glyphosate will still be sprayed in every street, every month, in a crisscross pattern across the city. Why? Because there is no real accountability built into our Super City. It is the Wild, Wild, West. Ratepayers are there to fill the coffers that are spent on dreams and vanity projects.

Leaning on his walker, my dad struggles - we can't go far and it is slow. I am reminded of the fragility of life, the delicate balance of nature and how precious each day really is.

I want to drive to Coxs Bay and walk around the creek edge to show Dad the white faced herons that dance along the branches high above the rodent line, beyond possums and man’s reach, but the bridge is closed and fenced off. Soon, kamikaze cyclists will rocket down the new shared path and over the bridge at break neck speed. Dog walkers will scatter, pram pushers swerve and joggers will do a sidestep to avoid collision with wheel, spoke or pedal.

We leave the bench, stopping in the shade where Dad sits on his walking frame catching his breath. Time passes as he gathers his strength. “If you could, what would you do? ” asks Dad. I smile, looking towards the sea, “that’s easy, I’d ask Mike Lee to stand for mayor.”

Lisa Prager, Westmere CONTINUED P18

photograph: Adam Baines

Deno Stock, unapologetic vegan activist

Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FROM THE EDITOR

In this month’s issue local scribe Helene Ravlich gives her take on the growing apartment/townhouse market.

When we relocated to Auckland in 2001 very few of our friends would consider apartment living… and now apartments are everywhere we look. Auckland is being intensified to help deal with the city’s growth. Location is the key when it comes to apartment and townhouse living, with many inner central residents looking to downsize and find joy in a more low maintenance space after years in a villa.

The people of Auckland Central, Waitematā, owe Keith McConnell a debt of gratitude. For three years, until his recent death after a short illness, Keith attended every monthly Waitematā Local Board meeting. There are only two constituents who have attended full board meetings every month this term, Keith was one of them. Rest in Peace Keith and thank you for being a mainstay of democracy. You are an unsung hero.

Jay Platt & Martin Leach

Covid-19 has sadly seen some businesses close but there are opportunities with new places to try. Firstly, Inca has opened in the new Ponsonby Central building. Serving Peruvian and Japanese cuisine, chef Nic Watt has a winner on his hands.

Then, Lucky 8, serving Chinese inspired tapas, has opened above Tatty’s. Not to mention Bhana Brothers, who have new owners, - the business now called My Grocer. They have made some changes and the selection is greatly improved.

A local told me the fruit and veges are extremely well priced.

And for fashionistas I can report that on 1 May, Nudie Jeans will open their first dedicated Ponsonby store. Next month will also see Silky Otter, Ponsonby’s new cinema, open.

We have never had so many letters to the editor before. This month there are eight on all kinds of issues. Peter Calder has made his views clear about AT’s work on cycleways and the West Lynn Village. “If you are going to give Lisa Prager and Gael Baldock a full page each to rant against the AT work on cycleways and the West Lynn Village, the least you might require of them is that they make some practical suggestions for improvement rather than simply howling about ancient history. How might Prager and Baldock improve, say, the slope up to the pedestrian crossing? Lower the street or raise the footpath? Both would cost millions and neither would solve the gradient challenge.” (MARTIN LEACH)  PN

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email melissa.bowman@apartmento.co.nz web apartmento.co.nz 8 Ponsonby Road, Auckland

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OUR CONTRIBUTORS

IT’S A TEAM EFFORT...

WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT OUR CONTRIBUTORS CONNOR CRAWFORD I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective.

I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.

DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM For the last 53 years I’ve been a freelance entertainment journalist and author. I’ve lived in the Grey Lynn area for nearly three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.

FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT I work as a booker, promoter and festival programmer. Active in all areas of the music community; folk music is my specialty.

HONOUR MITCHELL I have lived in the Ponsonby area all of my life. I write the column ‘Teen Picks’ which explores everything on offer in the greater Ponsonby area.

HELENE RAVLICH A freelance writer and copywriter for almost 20 years, I have written for publications all over the world and couldn’t imagine myself in any other job.

JOHN APPLETON I have a keen interest in nutritional medicine and how it may be used to support people with chronic illnesses.

KEN RING My yearly NZ Weather Almanacs began in 1999. During the tragic 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, my work created international interest. I currently live in Ponsonby.

KERRY LEE I’ve been a freelance writer for a year now, and what I love most are the wonderful people I’ve meet along the way. #best job.

LUCY KENNEDY I am a young local writer who loves to read! Each month you will find my reviews of new books for people who love to read as much as I do.

PHIL PARKER Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.

PIPPA COOM

I am Councillor for Waitemat-a and Gulf Ward on Auckland Council. Formerly, Chair Waitemat-a Local Board.

ROSS THORBY I have had a wanderlust for travel ever since I was old enough to own a passport.

Since I discovered cruising, I have become unstoppable.

JOHN ELLIOTT

SOFIA ROGER WILLIAMS

I am the founder of Ponsonby News and write for the magazine. My career has included politics, education and publishing.

My interests include the environment, the economy and social justice.

A vegan for over a year and vegetarian for over seven years with a passion for writing. I am a local student reviewing some of Ponsonby’s best vegan eats.

Join us on Sundays at 2pm... for our weekly service including demonstrations of clairvoyance.

25 New North Road, Eden Terrace / www.goldenlight.org.nz

12 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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LOCAL NEWS

DAVID HARTNELL:

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH DAVID ALSOP The creator and owner of the art gallery {Suite} in the heart of Ponsonby.

When did your interest in art start?

It really kicked off during university when I saw a few works at the Dunedin Art Gallery by Trevor Moffitt. They stopped me in my tracks and led me to investigate the artist further, which lead to my first acquisition: a 1974 work by Moffitt titled 'Thank God You're Home’.

Tell us about {Suite} Art Gallery.

{Suite} is my passion - I started out in 2007 after a career in law and aviation, not really knowing how to run a gallery, and am now the only person to have a gallery in Auckland and Wellington.

I manage the archive and copyright for New Zealand artist Ans Westra and represent 16 other artists including Jeffrey Harris, Wayne Youle, Tia Ansell, Richard Lewer, the Peter Peryer estate, Daniel Unverricht and Angela Singer. There's not a day goes by when I don't look forward to getting up to go to work.

What do you like most about Ponsonby?

I love the vibrancy and friendliness of Ponsonby. The gallery feels like it has been a great addition to the Ponsonby scene and it’s nice to think that we are contributing to the cultural fabric of the hood through our street front premise.

How have you survived the pandemic in your business?

Uumm, ask me again in two months time. I’ve been doing okay personally, and the gallery has been supported well online, which has been pleasing as so many livelihoods depend on the success we have with placing works.

What was your childhood like?

I grew up in Rotorua and had an interesting childhood. My dad and grandparents were lifetime residents of Rotorua so I couldn’t go far without my surname being recognised. Being in the centre of the North Island, Rotorua has good access to coastal Bay of Plenty, Auckland, and the central North Island (skiing). I enjoyed living in what was in those days a truly bi-cultural city, which has been invaluable in terms of the role that I play as manager of the Ans Westra archive.

What is your favorite time of the day?

I’m a morning person. I get a lot done before I leave the house.

Tell us about your dream home.

Something modern that’s dry, warm, efficient, has a view of the water, plenty of wall space, a spa pool and located near friends.

What is your most treasured possession?

My 1972 watch collection.

What is your greatest fear?

Sadly, dying.

Who is your favorite hero of fiction and why?

My capacity for fish and chips.

Henry Sugar. The wonderful story of Henry Sugar by Roald Dahl is one of my all time favourite yarns. Levitation and seeing through objects are two of my life goals.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

What superpower do you wish you had?

Tell us what is the most Kiwi thing about you?

I’ve recently had to start wearing glasses and wish I didn’t have to.

What's a saying that you really disapprove of and would never use?

Half-ass attempts.

Your biggest disappointments?

My tennis backhand.

If you won a million dollars what is the first thing you would do?

To look into the future.

Which talent would you most like to have?

To be able to draw or paint.

What cliché do you most hate?

‘It is what it is’. Aarrgghh. I tear my hair out hearing that.

What gizmo can you simply not live without?

Get a full-time tennis coach and yoga teacher.

My iphone has annoyingly become a permanent fixture on me.

I rely on it for everything and would be lost without it.

So what really motivates you?

What is your favorite comfort food?

I don’t need much motivation to get cracking. I get really enthused when new artwork arrives at the gallery that I want to share with our peeps.

Cheese. Five years living in the Netherlands sampling some of Europe’s finest cheese ruined me.

What do you think happens when we die?

I believe in some separation of body and spirit. I’d like to reconnect with my parents ‘up-there’ one day so they know what moi and my heirs have been up too.

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If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?

I’d like to see an artist resale royalty scheme introduced in whereby artists receive a small percentage of upside when one of the works sells for a profit. (DAVID HARTNEL MNZM)  PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

15

LOCAL NEWS

Spectacular harbour views in Viaduct Location. Three-bedroom spacious living space and a large, covered deck adding for entertaining year-round.

MOTIVATED VENDOR Oak floors stretch throughout apartment and a beautifully refurbished to high standard. Amenities of pool and gym and pet friendly. A great location and fabulous lifestyle.

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LOCAL NEWS

RETRO CITY… FEELS FAMILIAR Retro City opened last August in Ponsonby and are enjoying this new location. The store is full of interesting art and objects. Tell owner Heath we sent you…

Please tell us the back story about Retro City.

Where did it all start?

Retro City was established by myself and my partner Suwei He back in 2016. The idea grew from my lifelong interest in foraging for vintage, mid-century, antique and collectible items and from there a shop was opened on Karangahape Rd. We developed a very busy and popular shop however at the end of our lease (mid Covid) we decided to pull the pin and relocate when the time was right. And here we are now established in bright fresh premises at 33 Ponsonby Road.

Are you a collector?

Yes, I am. My mother worked in the antique furniture business for many years and from there my interests developed. Collecting is in my blood and the thrill of finding great items still gives me a buzz. If anything it’s an occupational hazard, although as time passes I find myself whittling my collection down to a selection of premium pieces that I will never sell. My collection is actually quite varied and includes a selection of quality European glass, ceramics, art prints, collectable books, LPs and a wide array of assorted collectables and ephemera.

What would people expect to see instore?

People can expect the unexpected! Don’t be fooled by the shop name, as we run the gamut from Georgian furniture to contemporary leather armchairs. There is no real pattern to my buying. I buy what I find visually appealing regardless of age, design or style. Nevertheless, we usually have a good stock of armchairs and selected furniture pieces as well as hand knotted rugs, art glass, collectibles, art prints and objet d’art. The store selection is curated to provide a pleasant shopping experience with room to move.

Do you offer any interior design suggestions or advice?

Buy what you like. Fashions change but good style is timeless.

Buy quality and don’t be afraid to mix it up. Buy from independent retailers; most of us are owner operators and genuinely care about what we do.

Do you have new items coming in regularly?

Yes, we have new stock arriving daily. Our turnover is fairly high and premium items don’t stick around long. We also sell on behalf, which adds to the variety. Recent arrivals include an Ercol armchair, an early 18th century chest of drawers, a Slim Aarons print, some Murano Sommerso glass, an aesthetic movement side table and a selection of Persian rugs. At this time, we don’t offer online buying so the best option is to pop in for a look or follow us on Instagram or Facebook to keep up to date with stock arrivals, pricing and shop information.

Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?

We are thrilled to finally establish ourselves in Ponsonby and look forward to meeting more of the locals who have so far welcomed us with open arms.

Retro City is open Wednesday through Sunday – please see our website for details.

Shop1, 33 Ponsonby Road, www.retrocityvintage.com retrocityvintage

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SHIMMER BAR CABINET, BAY SWIVEL CHAIR, BARK 7 RING ROUND PENDANT

www.dawsonandco.nz

LETTERS & EMAILS

CONTINUED FROM P8 DEMOCRACY IS DEAD IN WAITEMATĀ LOCAL BOARD

I have been following the activities of the Waitematā Local Board since October 2019 to identify and publish examples of both good and bad governance. Unfortunately, there weren’t too many examples of good governance but plenty of bad.

My aim by exposing examples of their governance was that this would lead to an improvement in their woefully low standards. There were two absolute lowlights.

Firstly, Chair Northey claiming mileage from his holiday home to a regularly scheduled meeting in Auckland. He made no apology for his behaviour. If he had been honourable, he would have resigned.

Secondly, the board would not accept Gael Baldock’s nomination by eight community members as a finalist in the recent Good Citizens Award. Gael works relentlessly in support of her community unpaid for more hours that most board members work. Because she is often critical of the board, she obviously didn’t qualify!

Up until October 2021, there were six City Vision members and one C&R member. With the six City Vision votes and led by an experienced politician, Chair Richard Northey could have ‘whipped them into shape’ easily. They had the power to do whatever they wanted, and have done so.

Constituents could take some small comfort that the one nonCity Vision member, Sarah Trotman, was able to ask questions both at board meetings and when locked away in workshops, which are not open to the public.

Since Sarah has resigned, and the board is totally City Vision members, the community have been kept in the dark on the activities of these civil servants.

Having thought about the situation over the holiday break, I have concluded that the board as constituted serves no meaningful purpose other than allocating community grants, advocating for their supporters and rubber-stamping council decisions, all of which they can do without ever having to hold a board meeting. They used to caucus prior to meetings, now they no longer have to hide their blatant one sided view.

Reluctantly, I have decided to re-calibrate and to pursue the running of council which, after all, has much greater impact on our daily lives.

I remain hopeful that at the forthcoming election (October 2022) the voters of Waitematā will vote in candidates from more than one party so we can see some semblance of democracy in our part of the city.

Keith McConnell, www.keithforwaitemata.com

Since writing this letter to the editor we received sad news that Keith passed away unexpectedly in hospital on 6 March.

UNCONSIDERED PEST CONTROL

Auckland Council’s ecologists apparently didn’t anticipate that the wild rabbits from around the Western Springs lake would feed on the newly planted seedlings where the former forest once dwelt, and therefore needed to cull the rabbits.

There are several problems with this. The consequences of Auckland Council using ‘preferred contractors’ is that they can get complacent and do not do the professional level of job that a contractor hungry for follow up work might do.

And the consequences of a wild rabbit pest control shoot in a reserve where domestic bunnies have been dumped is that the public might not respond favourably.

New management of reserves at Auckland Council however has meant more friendly ears from the public servants in charge than we experienced during the battle to save the forest ecosystem. Community concerns were heard and they agreed to postpone the shoot for five weeks to allow time for rescues to occur. This was not an easy job and took many attempts. Volunteers were not armed with thermal imaging goggles that the paid shooters use which can identify the shape different between the thin wild rabbits and the ‘butterball’ shaped domestic rabbits.

The rescue group were aware of at least six dumped pet bunnies in the park. Deno and Caleb caught two in two consecutive morning rescues. After spending $2 million to get rid of 200 ‘colonial trees’ and killing 15,000 natives in the process, this cull now includes 27 rabbits. We have been assured that none of those shot were domestic and we’re waiting for the photographic proof.

In the meantime the real vermin, the rats, have increased in numbers and were even bold enough to do a wee ‘dance’ for the cameras when the media filmed the rescue group.

Gael Baldock, Community Advocate CONTINUED ON P26

18 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

JOHN ELLIOTT:

HOW DO TAX CUTS RATE AS ECONOMIC MANAGEMENT? I have been waiting for new National party leader Chris Luxon to tell us something of his political philosophy, his values, and what he thinks the National party stands for.

I have waited in vain. What Luxon has said is, “We’re back!”

Who is back? A new National leadership team, but with what policy and principles?

So now his speech to the nation has been given, and guess what he promised? Tax cuts! Brian Fallow, no raving leftie, said in his Herald article: “against a background of stubborn wealth inequality, changing the tax scales will benefit those on higher incomes most”, and said it looked 'politically tribal'.

Fallow pointed out that someone on $45,000 would save $112 a year, while someone on $85,000 would be little more than $1000 a year better off.

I remember when John Key did the same trick in 2008. He reduced tax for the rich and added GST for the poor. He called it fiscally neutral. It may have been for the government’s revenue, but it simply added to the inequality gap between rich and poor in New Zealand. Luxon’s plan would further exacerbate that inequality which is now nearly the worst in the OECD. Fallow also talked about Labour’s income insurance scheme, rejected out of hand by National. “It would force everyone to pay for a scheme that will incentivise those who lose their job not to re-enter the workforce for more than half a year,“ cried Luxon.

Fallow’s comment, “to describe the plight of those who lose their jobs through redundancy or illness with such facile condescension is telling.”

There has been raw sewage floating off our beaches, oozing down the wall of Whangarei Hospital. There is mould in

hospital wards, there is desperate deferred maintenance in our schools, there are roads and hopefully more rail to build.

Just what would Luxon cut to achieve those desperately needed investments in our health, education and wellbeing, and infra-structure.

The New Zealand welfare state was set up by the first Labour Government to provide for the old, the young, the sick and the underprivileged.

Unfortunately we are still dogged by the Roger Douglas free market crap that so privileges the one percent and widens the inequality gap further and further.

Half a dozen richlisters have just given Act nearly one billion dollars in donations. They want their interests looked after, and to hell with the rest of us.

John Key tried hard to pose as the leader of the best managers of the economy, but also caring stewards of support for the poor. He tried to straddle the middle ground. Luxon seems to be eyeing up the true blue right wingers, although Act still has a bunch of those in its pragmatic grasp.

The best news this week was that with climate change so rampant, with wild fires, floods and droughts throughout Australia, there is absolutely no time left for what Greta Thunberg called 'blah blah blah', and New Zealanders have responded in the latest poll with over 12% for the Greens.

Most New Zealanders are social democrats and believe in private enterprise with state back up where needed, but Luxon is already sounding like a neo-liberal of the Thatcher, Reagan or Douglas mould. Not for me thank you.

(JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

GOD WILLING, CLAY WORKS POTTERS' MARKET 2022 WILL GO AHEAD St Columba's much-anticipated annual pottery market fundraiser is timed for Friday 6 and Saturday 7 May, 10am - 4pm.

Everything is in place for an amazing two days of new and previous potters providing stunning work of the quality the public has come to expect.

Watch this space for updates and photos! www.facebook.com/events/849722386425488 /849722396425487/?ref=newsfeed

instagram @stcolumbagreylynn

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

19

LOCAL NEWS

DAVENPORTS LAW:

UNDER ONE ROOF? Max and Sharon had lived in the same house in Browns Bay for twenty years.

They raised a family there, with their two children attending the local schools.

Now both grown, Gemma, the eldest, was living in London and Dylan, the younger, was living close to home with his partner, Isobel.

Isobel and Dylan had recently welcomed a child, a beautiful baby girl who as the first grandchild was the absolute light of Max and Sharon’s life. With Isobel heading back to work soon, Sharon was planning to look after Tammy McLeod the baby three days a week. Isobel was reluctant to return to work so soon, but the reality was that meeting current bills and dealing with rising grocery and petrol prices all while saving for a house just wasn’t possible on one income.

Max and Sharon were concerned that Dylan and Isobel might never be able to get a foot on the property ladder. They were currently renting a two bedroom which was barely big enough with a tiny baby and offered no room to grow. Still, the rent Dylan and Isobel were paying was high enough to prevent saving for a house deposit in a meaningful way.

Max and Sharon started thinking of ways they might help. First, they looked at their own resources. Their house was still situated on a full quarter acre site. They knew they were sitting on valuable land that would become too much for them to maintain in the future. The house itself was a standard issue 1970s style. With four bedrooms, one bathroom and a separate toilet, it was too big for them, but not quite big enough for Dylan, Isobel and the baby to move in with them, saving on rent.

Determined to help, Max and Sharon sat down one Sunday afternoon with Dylan and Isobel to brainstorm. It turned out when Dylan and Isobel combined their savings with their Kiwisaver, they had around $100,000. A lot of money to be sure, just not enough in today’s market.

After much discussion, they concluded that it would be sensible for Max and Sharon to sell their house and pool their money with Dylan and Isobel to buy a property that they could all live in together. This solved two problems: It would allow Max and Sharon to free up some capital for their retirement and it would get Dylan and Isobel on the property ladder. Not to mention all the benefits of having Nan and Grandad on site!

The two couples started to look for a home and income situation where one couple could live in the main home and the other in the minor dwelling. It took some time, but they eventually found the perfect place: close to good schools, modern, spacious and within their budget.

The arrangement was that Max and Sharon would own 75% of the property, Dylan and Isobel 25%. Dylan and Isobel’s savings were only 5% of the actual purchase price and so they needed to borrow some money to top them up to 25%. Max and Sharon weren’t in the position to lend them more money, as they needed savings for retirement and had their other child, Gemma to consider. They talked to the bank and understood that while the bank could lend Dylan and Isobel the extra $400,000, Max and Sharon would need to be coborrowers as they would also be on the title to the property.

Realising the complexity of the situation, the two couples decided to get legal advice. They went to see Max and Sharon’s lawyer who explained that these kinds of intergenerational property sharing arrangements were becoming more and more common. She emphasized that even within a trusting family, it was important to have an agreement in place that dealt with all the worst-case scenarios.

She had seen things go wrong too many times before. Some issues to consider were: · What if Dylan and Isobel couldn’t pay their mortgage and the bank looked to Max and Sharon to pay? · Were the outgoings on the property (rates, insurance etc.) to be paid 50/50 or proportionate to their percentages in the property? · What happened if one of the couples separated or someone died? · What would happen if it just didn’t work out, and they no longer desired to live all together on the property?

It felt quite overwhelming, but the lawyer explained it was much better to set the ground rules now in a well thought out property sharing agreement. It ensured all parties were on the same page, avoiding nasty surprises down the line.

There are many ways to help children into property. The property sharing arrangements described in this article are being used not just by parents and children, but often by siblings and sometimes by friends. Pooling resources can be a smart way to get on the property ladder. It is tough at the moment; the traditional methods aren’t cutting it for a lot of people. Thinking outside the square is more important than ever. However, involving more parties in a property can complicate outcomes. Legal advice about the different scenarios and options should be a part of your strategy.

DAVENPORTS LAW, 331 Rosedale Road, Level 1, Building 2, Albany, T: 09 883 3284, www.davenportslaw.co.nz

20 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

C RAFT E D L EGAL ADV ICE FOR PE ACE OF MIN D.

First home buyers?

Parents assisting children.

There are a number of ways parents can assist their children onto the property ladder. A loan, gift contribution, or part ownership are common options.

With changes to bank lending policies and the 10 year brightline test, it is important to get legal advice to establish the best way of structuring a contribution, which will protect both you and your children.

Talk to our Trusts or Property experts about your best option before you commit to anything.

DAV ENPORTSL AW.C O. N Z

0 9 883 32 84

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

21

LOCAL NEWS

FOR SALE

French Blue: An iconic property in the heart of Three Lamps It’s hard to imagine Ponsonby in the early 1900s when four working men’s cottages sat high and proud on four adjoining sites.

Today French Blue is the only original cottage left, boasting high ceilings, wooden floors and yes over the years kitchen and bathrooms have been modernised.

The location is as special today as it was then. Great sunlight floods the site, while three good sized rooms have served as brilliant offices for the past 13 years. The rear studio with its own courtyard is simply a bonus.

Situated in the heart of Three Lamps where the transport options are plentiful and the lifestyle on offer here is bountiful - from the fabulous wine bars to some of the best food institutions on offer in Ponsonby.

This is certainly a property offering numerous future options.

Call or email for more information.

JASON TROWBRIDGE, M: 021 358 888, E: jtrowbridge.ponsonby@ljhooker.co.nz

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JASON TROWBRIDGE

in association with LJ Hooker Ponsonby

8 Pompallier Terrace, Ponsonby

3

2

2

French Blue...

The essence of historic Ponsonby is captured in these walls,

a central home or office is what you are after.

one of the four original terraces built on these adjoining sites.

The bonus is the garden studio.

Today French Blue has a life of its own, having been used as

Generous parking.

consulting offices for the past 13 years. The property offers

Transport, cafes, wine bars, restaurants are within metres of the

diverse opportunities with many options.

property.

Indeed, this location offers a lifestyle of ease and connection if

Price by negotiation CV $2,325,000

View Saturday & Sunday 1:45-2:15pm or view by appointment

Jason Trowbridge 021 358 888 jtrowbridge.ponsonby@ljhooker.co.nz

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided.

Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

LJ Hooker Ponsonby Licensed Agent REAA 2008

LOCAL NEWS

PIPPA COOM:

RESTORING THE LIFE-SUSTAINING CAPACITY OF THE HAURAKI GULF I have previously written in Ponsonby News about the dire state of the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi. The Gulf is suffering from impacts from activities on land and at sea. Six 'State of the Gulf' reports over the last twenty years have documented the ongoing decline of the health of the Gulf, with species like crayfish now considered functionally extinct.

The Hauraki Gulf Forum is the lead advocate for restoring the life-sustaining capacity of the Gulf, with members representing ministers, councils and tangata whenua. The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act 2000, which the Forum operates under, is a key component of the legislative framework advancing integrated management of the Gulf.

Over the past nine months the Hauraki Gulf Forum has undertaken an internal review on whether the 22-year-old Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act, and the Marine Park and Forum it created, remain fit for purpose. The Forum looked at how it could be a better advocate for the Gulf and help turn around its decline. The need to update the Act is not new - it has been discussed for the best part of a decade, including through three independent reviews and reports over the past seven years.

At the Forum meeting on 28 February 2022, members voted to adopt an advocacy position for updating and strengthening the Marine Park Act. The key updates we will be seeking are the introduction of a legislated statutory vision and strategy for the Hauraki Gulf, which would become a key consideration in relevant decision-making processes and planning by the Crown and councils, and a refresh of the Forum to reflect our commitment to a Treaty partnership and enable us to be a more effective advocacy body.

As co-chair alongside Nicola MacDonald we will now discuss the new advocacy position with ministers. Whether

The Noises

any changes go ahead sits first with the government, and ultimately with parliament. Any legislative change would require a consultation process.

We know that Aucklanders overwhelmingly support this.

A recent public poll showed huge support for doing more to protect and restore the Gulf, with massive numbers also in favour of the use of indigenous practices like rāhui.

If our advocacy proposal is adopted by the government, the Forum would continue to be the lead advocate for the Hauraki Gulf. There would be no impact on the ownership of private or public land such as Auckland’s Regional Parks, nor will it restrict access to the Hauraki Gulf in any way.

I look forward to taking our proposal to ministers as I am convinced that we will see far greater action and transformational change by raising the status of the Hauraki Gulf for decision-makers and through revitalisation of the Forum under a Treaty partnership model. (PIPPA COOM)  PN www.pippacoom.co.nz

A recent trip to The Noises in the Hauraki Gulf

24 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JASON TROWBRIDGE

in association with LJ Hooker Ponsonby

84 Islington Street, Ponsonby

4

2

2

Urban Escapism… this is sublime sophistication An immaculately renovated haven that certainly goes above

Four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a walk-in wardrobe provide

and beyond.

plenty of options.

The wide central hallway will tease the senses and draw your

This property offers all ages and stages of life plenty of

gaze longingly to the impressive open plan living and dining

opportunity with its central lift from internal double garaging

areas beyond. Connection between the kitchen and family

to the upper level. A wine cellar and space for more off-street

areas is perfect, with large sliding doors creating seamless

parking along with an internal workshop - this has it all.

indoor-outdoor flow. The kitchen is straight from Vogue, with its soft caramel tones enhancing rich textures and finishes.

Auction Wednesday 27th April, 6:30pm In rooms, 53 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby (unless sold prior)

View Saturday & Sunday 11:45-12:30pm or view by appointment

Jason Trowbridge 021 358 888 jtrowbridge.ponsonby@ljhooker.co.nz

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided.

Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

LJ Hooker Ponsonby Licensed Agent REAA 2008

LOCAL NEWS

JOHN ELLIOTT:

WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT HOUSING? The problem is still about housing supply. There have not been enough houses built in New Zealand to cope with the growth in population in recent years. But there is more to it than that.

The biggest problem occurred when neo-liberal politicians of both major parties forced the sell-off of state houses. Now those in need are being housed in motels, at great state expense. And Auckland Council got the free market wobbles and sold off pensioner housing.

Now throughout New Zealand the old and the young particularly, are shut out of home ownership. Even rents are a killer. The only viable answer is for government to buy land and build really affordable housing which can be sold at prices below what private enterprise is being forced to charge, some of them in shared equity arrangements. Give a young couple who are together and bringing into their home $100,000 an opportunity to buy say, a one third share in a government owned house, with opportunities to take further equity as they improve their financial situation.

Too many first home buyers are forcing themselves into homes paying nearly half their take home pay. That is a recipe for mortgagee sales if the slightest thing goes wrong in that family, and in these uncertain times who would bet that would never happen.

LETTERS & EMAILS

The FOMO (fear of missing out) of late last year seems to have dissipated and prices where my own son is looking have softened, perhaps by as much as 10%. But at $1,000,000

dollars, how can a young couple service a $900,000 mortgage even if they have a $100,000 deposit?

Labour has done a great job managing the pandemic and has had international plaudits as a result. But I’m old enough to remember the aftermath of WW2 in Britain when Churchill’s party was dumped in the first post war election. He was offered a knighthood and said, “Why should I accept the garter when the people have just given me the boot.” He did become Sir Winston Churchill a little later.

Ardern’s government has time to deal with post Covid issues, and must do so boldly. One of her strengths will be a partner in the Greens led by James Shaw dealing authoritatively with climate change. But she has education, health and infrastructure to deal with too. One thing is very unlikely, that she will copy Luxon and offer tax cuts too.

A week is a long time in politics, as maybe Chris Luxon is feeling after being comprehensively panned for his tax cut plan for the wealthy. It didn’t fly with even moderate media commentators. And so , it’s a long time until November 2023 when the next election takes place.

Labour has two budgets to sprinkle fairy dust where it is most needed. I rate Grant Robertson to succeed as fairy godfather.

(JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

CONTINUED FROM P18 GREY LYNN / WESTMERE CYCLEWAY ‘CONSULTATION’ UPDATE

The cycleway, rejected three years ago by the community, has been regurgitated with its consultation by means of a ‘survey monkey’ and an interactive map called a ‘social pinpoint’.

The map allowed comments to be placed by the public in locations on an aerial view of the roads with the design of the proposed cycleway imposed. This required participants to have a reasonably high level of computer skills. Each participant’s comment was verified by a code once posted.

I participated by inputting the many fabulous design solutions offered by community during participation in a ‘community liaison group’ with Auckland Transport and designers Boffa Miskell. Trouble was that my comments did not appear on the map when I posted them. I do have a screen shot of those comments with verification number for each and every comment I made. When I went back to check if they had loaded the next day they had not. The comment option had closed. I was highly amused by this comment, "My goodness it’s ugly - don’t any of your designers have eyes," that had been placed 15 days earlier.

inaccessible ramp from the zebra crossing, to the Human Rights Commission.

The simple solution public want involves scarifying a local area of the road and removing the ‘raised table’, not a convoluted ‘switchback ramp’ and stairs that was first suggested by Boffa Miskell four years ago and rejected by community. It also involves returning the car parks outside Harvest to enable the return of 45% of their customers loss along with the parking.

As a destination shop, all of the village suffered from the loss of those customers.

Gael Baldock

Community Advocate and Architectural Designer CONTINUED ON P31

The flawed programme that had not recorded my comments has been bought to the attention of the Waitematā Local Board and Auckland Transport. If this is not rectified it will be brought to the attention of the Ombudsman as flawed consultation.

The plans also showed the works within West Lynn Village as being 'complete'. The current works prove that wrong.

These have only had consultation with the Grey Lynn Business Association, even though three locals took the mobility

26 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JASON TROWBRIDGE

in association with LJ Hooker Ponsonby

51 Clarence Street, Ponsonby

2

1

2

Ponsonby section...

Let’s look at the facts... 323m2.

Beautifully enhanced, extremely loved, and very liveable.

The northwest facing near-level site is one of Ponsonby’s most

Previously owned by the same family for 90 years…

sought-after streets in this prime location.

Future conceptualisation is required…

Yes, there are numerous options here.

Motivated vendors’ instructions are clear - to be sold.

Not to mention the original two bedroom cottage, it’s a bonus.

Auction Monday 11th April, 6:30pm In rooms, 53 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby (unless sold prior)

View Saturday & Sunday 1-1:30pm or view by appointment

Jason Trowbridge 021 358 888 jtrowbridge.ponsonby@ljhooker.co.nz

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided.

Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

LJ Hooker Ponsonby Licensed Agent REAA 2008

LOCAL NEWS

PONSONBY U3A: MARCH

2022

And we all went to the beach!

Ponsonby U3A’s March meeting featured Dr Terry Hume who focused members on what many of them have enjoyed a lot during this beautiful summer - beaches and sand. A marine geologist/coastal oceanographer in interdisciplinary environmental research, Terry has consulted for government departments, local authorities, and private companies as well as working as a scientist in the DSIR and NIWA. He has been involved in investigations of coastal hazards, water safety on beaches, effects of climate change on coastal processes, offshore and mining, port development and harbour dredging and the effects of catchment sediment on estuaries. Terry has had a love affair with beaches from his childhood days spent for weeks on end at Waihi Beach.

Terry’s enthusiasm was evident as he took members via Zoom through the uses and value of sand and how and why the world is running out of it. He outlined where sand comes from and how beaches are formed and explained why west coast beaches have black sand, and east coast beaches have white sand.

His accompanying graphics beautifully illustrated his themes. In relation to climate change and sea level rise, and how they will affect our beaches, Terry raised the tempo showing horrifying pictures, past and present, of some of our local beaches. He cited a quote by Rachel Carson, the quintessential environmentalist of the 60s who attested, “The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we have for destruction.” And as Terry concluded, the challenge for us all is to apply our knowledge of coastal processes and live by the rules of the sea.

Following Terry as general speaker was the ten-minute speaker, Ponsonby U3A member, Carolyn Reid. In this the seventieth year of the reign Queen Elizabeth ll, Carolyn gave an evocative vignette of an event she recollected as an eleven-year-old child.

In December 1953, the Queen and Prince Philip were travelling in New Zealand to mark her succession to the throne.

Carolyn’s parents, Tim and Phyllis Cauldrey, who had owned Wenderholm since 1940 were asked to host the royal couple at a casual and informal lunch to enable time-out from royal

Every Monday and Friday, 9:30am - 10:30am Freemans Bay Community Hall, 52 Hepburn St

REGISTRATION IS ESSENTIAL. EMAIL INFO@PONSONBYCOMMUNITY.ORG.NZ

Dr Terry Hume

duties. Carolyn went with her parents to meet them. She described the Queen as a warm person with the bluest of beautiful, blue eyes. She also recalled the banter of Prince Philip, who was slightly miffed that his equerry had sailed in the Z boat moored nearby and he had not. The Z boat was hastily trailered down to Moose Lodge for the next royal sojourn. A year later, Carolyn’s parents received a letter enquiring after the family’s health and saying that the Queen and Prince Philip were remembering the beautiful beach and wishing that they were still there.

Unfortunately, in the current 'Red' climate Ponsonby U3A is unable to hold meetings in person and Zoom remains the modis operandi. However, the club continues to welcome new members. It is invaluable for individuals to get together, to meet new people and for new interests and knowledge to be shared. Apart from monthly general meetings there are over 26 special interest groups covering a diverse range of options many of which are operating by Zoom. If you are interested in attending as a visitor, call President Philippa Tait on M: 027 452 3108.

The next meeting of 2022 will be in April and for every month thereafter on the second Friday of the month either by Zoom or at the Herne Bay Petanque Club. The April speaker will be international, foreign affairs print journalist and broadcaster, Wayne Brittenden, speaking on the Ukraine.

(CHRISTINE HART)  PN NEXT MEETING:

By Zoom. 10am, Friday 8 April, 2022

ENQUIRIES:

Philippa Tait, President, Ponsonby U3A. M: 027 452 3108, www.u3a.nz

Preschoolers Multisport Programme FREE!

Our tutors are fully vaccinated and will be masked.

All adults in attendance must provide a vax pass to be scanned and be masked at all times.

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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LOCAL NEWS

ROSS THORBY: CRUISING

ON LAND

The versatility of “freedom camping” in a van...

Here on the beach at Waipu, cosseted in the luxurious interior of Car-lotta, I was lullabied to sleep by the sound of the rolling surf just metres from the door.

The gentle rock of the van was a combination of the reverberating snore of Navigator Simon and a breeze that had worked its way in and around the Waipu dunes, playfully licking the suspension of our home away from home.

After awaking to the smell of coffee beans and fresh croissants from Car-lotta’s kitchen, (we may be in the country but we are not savages) Navigator and I separated; the last I saw of Simon was a bright yellow vision wobbling off down towards the Brynderwyns’ and Auckland on his Vespa, top heavy and overloaded with the fresh fish, chocolate and eggs that he had collected at our numerous stops on our way up the coast.

Now I am free to hit the open road solo, turn up some Bob Marley and chill with the wind in my hair … wind in my hair?

Ooops, that's the ceiling vent I accidentally left open. Note to self - check all windows and hatches before leaving the safety of your site, especially making sure that the van is disconnected from “Shore” power. (A real beginner’s oversight.)

Judging by the traffic, New Zealanders seem to have taken to the road just as I have and are discovering our beautiful country. Although unlike yesterday’s drive to Waipu, the trip today would have no stops until I reached the peak of the hill marking the entrance to Paihia and the Bay of Islands.

When my family first arrived here to live in the late 60s, Paihia had 12 motels. Now there are hundreds of them, and at least three camping grounds. It was promoted then as the Winterless North - a name that sticks today.

New Zealand was a very different place then. When a Kiwi went on holiday, they either came here to the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, or maybe, if they were adventurous, Napier. People rarely travelled overseas and if you went to Australia or Fiji, you were very posh. The Bay was as exotic as it got, with its 144 islands of all shapes and sizes, its crystal clear water, dolphins and stunning scenery, all of which fortunately hasn’t changed.

Here in the new 'Covid World', this area is being rediscovered

by Kiwis and now that we are open again it's pumping to the vibe of a different beat with clutches of jandaled tourists wearing Hawaiian shirts and shorts. I feel at home - as if I’d never left.

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

I spent a formative childhood here, swimming, sailing, riding horses along the beach and generally being a kid. We raided orchards and played truant from school (sorry Mother). Our childhood here really was idyllic; we barely knew what shoes were for. We would leave home in the morning to play and as long as we got home by dark, we weren't in too much trouble.

Today the town has matured and grown but its charms still remain - pristine beaches, a safe harbour and more to do on a lazy afternoon than you could shake a li-lo at.

Parking Car-lotta on the waterfront in Ti Bay in front of our old family homestead, I am able to explore the versatility of “freedom camping” in a van. Unplugged of external power sources and relying on the house battery, I am completely self sufficient with all the joys of home, including Neon, Netflix, and a fridge full of provisions.

After a swim and a few glasses of bubbles the day led to dusk with a reunion of old school friends investigating my bar and new mobile abode. We set up the van’s BBQ on the beach, made a cheese platter and watched the sea gulls scrap and scream over the crackers and morsels that flew their way.

The Bay Of Islands had become a big port for cruise ships pre-Covid. This time of year it would normally be packed with day trippers revelling in what the area has to offer. Now that it's bereft of foreigners, the area is quickly adapting to the new environment. The harbour may be empty of liners, but it’s now full of small pleasure boats, sailing vessels and the several pods of dolphins which frolic here.

As dusk gave way to night and the stars appeared, the gentle lap of the waves on the beach replaced the distant memory of Auckland’s traffic and Ponsonby's nightlife - replaced but not PN forgotten. (ROSS THORBY) 

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

KEITH MCCONNELL WORKED TO ENSURE YOUR VOICE WAS HEARD

The people of Auckland Central, Waitematā, owe Keith McConnell a debt of gratitude. For three years, until his recent death after a short illness Keith, attended every monthly Waitematā Local Board meeting. There are only two constituents who have attended full board meetings every month this term, Keith was one of them.

He attended meetings to observe and report on the quality of governance (or in the case of the Waitematā Local Board lack of quality). He was appalled at what he described as “the worst governance of his professional career” and, after analysing a recording of each meeting, he set about reporting on the governance highs and lows of each local board meeting.

His reports were a depressing read. That said, they were fair, methodical, professional and written by one who had experienced decades of best practice governance in his professional career as a respected and successful chief executive and leader.

The disgraceful governance and leadership that concerned him the most were: · The Waitematā Local Board’s mismanagement of the Western Springs Forest which saw over 15,000 established natives decimated. · The manipulation by the Waitematā Local Board, and senior council leaders of the land approval for the Erebus Memorial in Sir Dove Myer Robinson Park. · The law breaking of Cr Pippa Coom, and her encouragement of others to join her on her bike jaunt across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, the busiest stretch of road in the country.

Waitematā Local Board Members have a habit of sidelining those who hold a mirror up to them. True to form, none of them showed up to pay their respects at his farewell. I felt sick to the stomach at that disrespect shown to someone who relentlessly put the needs of the people of Auckland Central before his own.

Rest in Peace Keith and thank you for being a mainstay of democracy, an unsung hero.

Sarah Trotman, ONZM Sarah Trotman was a Local Board Member for two years until she resigned in protest at the poor governance of the local board and lack of quality leadership by Jim Stabback, CEO of Auckland Council. Keith McConnell rated Trotman’s governance performance 9/10.

REST IN PEACE KEITH McCONNELL

I recall the very first moment I met Keith. He came up to me at a public event at which I was no doubt berating some politician for their immediate and obvious failings. He stood out amongst a group of candidates as one of those very rare and special men.

He was a gentleman and a gentle man. Generous with his time and his knowledge, he was a passionate advocate for this city that he so loved.

His counsel was wise and considered. He had a relentless determination to ensure the community got a fair deal and held those in power to account, reminding them, it is a privilege to serve, not just a pay check. He was courageous, a man of conviction and a man of service.

For all his generosity, Keith didn’t suffer fools. He was direct, honest and fair. He saw right through the spin - calling it out.

Demanding better. Encouraging others to be better.

· Chair, Richard Northey’s mileage claims, paid for by ratepayers, from his Coromandel bach to his local board office.

I so appreciated the guidance, the conversations, the kindness and the honesty as we started our journey to save Robbies Park. It’s a shame you’ll miss the finale, Sir.

· The inability of Auckland Council’s Chief Executive, Jim Stabback, to step in and demonstrate the leadership required to rebuild the trust of the people of Waitematā, after it was decimated by Claudia Wyss, Maureen Glassey and other senior council staff.

As a community, we owe Keith a great deal. He gave so much of himself and his time to serve all of us. We are here for Sue, if she needs to collect on that debt.

Halfway through the local board term Keith McConnell compiled a detailed summary of local board member performance. He then rated each board member on a scale of 1-10. The results were an appalling reflection of the quality of contribution by local board members;

LETTERS & EMAILS

CONTINUED FROM P26

Keith, Sir, travel well.

Jo Malcolm

2/10 Chair Richard Northey 2/10 Member Kerrin Leonie 2/10 Member Julie Sandilands 4/10 Member Adriana Christie 5/10 Member Graeme Gunthorpe Conflicts of interest and unprofessional behaviour within the local board continues. Adriana Christie, the board’s liaison with Community Facilities is now working for Community Facilities.

Keith, would be asking questions like (1) Where and when was the job advertised? (2) How many people applied? (3) Let’s have a look at the job description. (4) Who was on the interview panel? (5) Did Member Christie disclose her conflict of interest and did the Chair even care?

LETTERS CONTINUED ON P56

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31

LOCAL NEWS

HEALING PHEROMONES & OTHER SCENT SIGNALS: LATE SUMMER REFLECTIONS IN A PONSONBY PARK What a fabulous summer it has been, despite all the pandemic tribulations around the world.

Our local experience of Covid-19 may not have been as severe as elsewhere, but we too have experienced the lockdowns, deaths, quarantine, family separations, business closures, shortages of goods and services and the exhaustion of all our essential workers. On top of that we have been affected by another unthinkable war spreading grief abroad.

Naturally, we tend to focus our pessimism and criticism on the apparently random meanderings of our politicians or on the decision-making mistakes we attribute to industry and social service leaders. It’s so easy to be judgemental, but there is a strong possibility that our politicians and leaders are actually doing their best, without maps or instructions for navigating these uncharted waters. There is no doubt that these are truly difficult times as we face unique economic crises, a strange new sickness in our midst and devastating wars abroad. It has been a struggle sometimes to avoid ruminating about it all in a negative way.

My antidote to pessimistic overthinking is to visit the trees in any of our wonderful parks here in Tāmaki Makaurau. As a Ponsonby local, I have explored most of our green spaces, large and small, dotted around the neighbourhoods. They are full of trees that communicate with us soothingly by sharing their pheromones and other scent signals. You just have to loiter long enough under a tree to absorb the benefit or to imagine that you will. Stay a while - sit on the grass - lie back - watch the fragments of sky and slow moving clouds - close your eyes - relax your shoulders - wiggle your toes - listen to your own personal affirmations.

This is how I came to write a letter recently to someone with whom I wish I had shared my admiration and love more freely while he was alive. As I lay in the dappled light, eyes closed, inhaling the lingering smell of recently mown grass hanging low to the ground, I watched him in my mind’s eye mowing his own precious lawn with care all those years ago.

I can recommend the healing effect of absorbing tree pheromones while reflecting on the good things in our lives.

You too might enjoy composing a letter in the dappled shade of a tree in your local park, with generosity of spirit.

Dearest - you have been my soul mate, my closest associate, my life-long friend and confidant and my best advisor every step of the way in our partnership as a couple and as a family.

We have known each other for fifty years, since we first met in that tropical paradise, full of youthful curiosity about each other and about a world beyond the islands. You had massive confidence and charisma and your optimism spread like a carpet in front of us. You were a hero to me.

You have loved our children with a big heart and open mind.

This was always clearly evident, even when we struggled with the mundane complications of raising a family and forging our separate careers. You have honoured our social commitment to raise our family with a strong sense of identity, with good purpose, moral ideals and decent social values.

You were a just and honest man of principle, not without faults, but you were brave and kind. You loved your family and gave yourself completely to the difficult role of making our home a safe and happy haven for us all; a place we could leave confidently and a place to which we could return, at any time, in any kind of condition.

Your wisdom and clear-sightedness kept us all resilient whenever any of us faced personal threats and also through the times when we struggled to maintain our collective stability as an extended family.

There is no one I would rather have stand beside me in times of crisis and in times of happiness. I love you still.

(ALEXA LAWRENCE)  PN

FOOTNOTE: The correct term for these plant chemicals is phytoncides. Breathing in these antibacterial and antifungal chemicals is believed to have a beneficial effect on our health and mood.

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

CHLÖE SWARBRICK:

AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP On the evening of Wednesday 16 March, we passed the Second Reading of the Unit Titles Amendment Bill.

It was my first time giving a speech via Zoom Parliament, acknowledging the bill’s sponsor Nicola Willis (and forebear, Hon. Nikki Kaye) and the work we’ve got to do to fix some odd things that happened in Select Committee.

There was a beautiful irony in offering my contribution from isolation as a household contact from my own apartment (a stone’s throw from Ponsonby Road) in Auckland Central.

In the same way that I’d had incredible good fortune to collaborate with the Body Corporate Chairs Group (shout out, especially, to the sharp mind of Tim Jones) and the City Centre Residents’ Group on apartment isolation guidance, we had also collaborated each step of the way on this Unit Titles Amendment.

For the uninitiated, the Unit Titles Act 2010 sets the ground rules for how those in multi-unit housing, adjoined townhouses and apartments run their body corporates, from maintenance of shared areas, through financial reporting, investment, insurance and operational rules. It’s long overdue for amendment, not the least because of how times have changed.

Back in 2010, those denser living arrangements made up around 15% of new homes, in 2017 they made up 40%, in January 2022 alone, Unit Titles made up nearly half of all new consented dwellings across Aotearoa New Zealand.

We’ve all heard our share of horror stories when it comes to large scale apartments, both historical and new developments.

The leaky homes crisis of the early 2000s prompted some disconnected, ham-fisted responses, including changes by many commercial banks to put in place policy that refused to lend on smaller apartments without significantly higher proportional deposits.

This was, of course, without any evidence that smaller apartments were in any way more or less likely to be afflicted with issues than their neighbours.

I was stoked to have worked with the Bankers’ Association to in turn directly address a number of banks who, last year, finally changed these archaic policies.

Heritage buildings, on the other hand, have had their own bad press run with asbestos concerns and fire hazards woes.

The only way to ever ‘fix’ these problems is full disclosure in working out how you can deal with them.

That’s not even touching the far greater concerns seen in proxy farming. This is where one group, or individuals, do their darnedest to collect as many votes as possible to force their will on everybody else in the building/s.

I've been privy to countless reports of, effectively, corporate takeovers, where owner-occupiers have been plunged into debt by egregious costs forced on them as a result of entities who capture enough of the votes to require excessive work in common areas in order to split the bill and flip their property for more money.

It's particularly dangerous in instances of absentee landlords, where profit maximisation focuses result in cuts to amenities, security, and upkeep for everybody else in the building, at their worst causing issues for the broader community.

The other key issue is of pre-contractual and pre-settlement disclosure, providing accessible and straight-forward information at the right time and without hassle to enable smooth sale with shared knowledge from all parties.

At Select Committee the majority (Labour, National and ACT members) voted to remove proxy voting limits and – by decree of many lawyers and conveyancers – make the disclosures regime extremely, overly complicated.

I was the sole dissenting voice and registered these concerns (along with the unnecessary removal of professional industry membership for body corporate managers) in the report that is now available on Parliament’s website.

Subsequent to Select Committee processes and a bit of correspondence and several meetings, I’ve been delighted that sponsoring member Nicola Willis has agreed these unworkable changes must be remedied. Between us and the Associate Minister of Housing, we’re confident we’ll see some Supplementary Order Papers up at the Committee of the Whole House reading of the Bill in the next few weeks to fix these problems.

After that, we’ll see these well-overdue modernising legal changes in effect by the end of the year. Something to write home about. (CHLÖE SWARBRICK)  PN

CHLÖE SWARBRICK, T: 09 378 4810, E: chloe.swarbrick@parliament.govt.nz

KIA ORA PONSONBY Please get in touch with any local issues. My office is here to help.

Chlöe Swarbrick MP for Auckland Central 09 378 4810 chloe.swarbrick@parliament.govt.nz Authorised by Chlöe Swarbrick, MP for Auckland Central, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

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HELEN WHITE:

LOCAL NEWS

LABOUR LIST MP BASED IN AUCKLAND CENTRAL Last week I had the pleasure of going to see the redeveloped City Mission which will include wrap around services for our long-term homeless and 85 permanent apartments to house our most vulnerable.

It has a whole floor of beds for those detoxing and a kitchen to provide meals to those who are still living on our streets. Just up the road, the Greys Avenue redevelopment will provide a further 200 state homes, and again essential wrap around services for those who need them.

more work to do in this space as unit titles is only one form of community ownership structure. Aucklanders have not really experienced this kind of community living before, so there is lots to learn from overseas. I will be working on connecting our city with these ideals.

Many other of the options to help ease chronic homelessness are coming on stream also. The Auckland Night Shelter, being one of many where the commitment of volunteers is making a huge difference.

Auckland city needs options other than buying a stand-alone home, like long-term leasing which allows people to stay in the community and live in a community without having to sink capital into it.

Homelessness was not a feature of the central city I grew up in but it wasn’t exactly a utopia either.

This is crucial to building long-term community.

I remember the violent objections to a half-way house in Arthur Street, where I grew up. I am pleased to see that the community in Ponsonby has now got behind the development of supportive living for women in need just a stone’s throw from that site.

I think lots more people now recognise we need to fix a very broken system and that we are connecting with each other in a way that was out of vogue for a while. A pandemic can be sobering like that.

Recognising the need to design our city so it reinforces and enriches our interconnectedness is not just about protecting the vulnerable, although that is very important. In a growing city this value must be instilled in our community design, our housing and our transport solutions. People want full engagement with their own and other communities and strong opportunities to connect.

The Unit Titles Act reforms which have party support from both sides of the house might sound incredibly dull but strong community living rules are critical for our first home buyers in the city.

Residents should be rest assured buying a house or apartment subject to a body corporate in the city is an easy and painless experience. They also need to know the value of what they are buying and with a plan for how to keep it at that value.

These new laws will make buying much more transparent and will plan maintenance into the future. I believe there is

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

I grew up with many children whose families were raised in the city when it was cheap. Many people my parents' age don’t want to leave the area that is their community but they are now cash poor. They are also often rattling around a big, but poorly maintained home. That can be isolating, but having to leave a long-time community is pretty serious for the mental wellbeing of older people.

While reverse mortgages are one option for some to be able to stay put, I would like to see more choices and I see long term rentals as a really sensible way to go.

There are many who just can’t get a deposit together to even think about buying a house because of day to day costs.

Being in a vibrant city, close to work is great for families and single people, and frankly having them in Auckland Central would be fantastic for our city centre.

So many businesses in Auckland have moved their workers home and as a consequence many of the hospitality and retail businesses are struggling. I would love to see those businesses return strongly. To have people living, working and playing in our inner city would surely help. I don’t want to see them have to move out because of rising costs and being locked out of housing. Rent-to-buy makes a lot of sense for this group, as do secure rental options.

This article is funded by the Parliamentary Service.

(HELEN WHITE)  PN www.labour.org.nz/helenwhite

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

KEN RING:

WEATHER BY THE MOON - AUCKLAND WEATHER DIARY, APRIL 2022 April may be a drier month than average, with rainfall only about 25% of normal.

However, sunshine hours and temperatures may be average. The first week may be the sunniest, warmest and driest, and the third week the wettest, and cloudiest with the heaviest rain. Highest barometric pressures may come in the last week. The best weekend for outdoor activities may be the 2nd/3rd.

For fishers, highest tides are around 2nd. The best fishing bite-times in the east are around dusk on 1st – 2nd, and

16th-18th. Bite-chances are also good around noon of 8th11th, and 22nd-24th.

For gardeners, planting is best (waxing moon ascending) between 9th-16th, and pruning is best 23rd-30th, (waning moon descending). For preserving and longer shelf-life, pick crops or flowers on neap tide days of 10th and 25th.

Always allow 24-hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING)

For future weather for any date, and the 2022 NZ Weather Almanac, see www.predictweather.com.

Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News.

Updated property values Updated property valuations will be in mailboxes, inboxes and online soon.

• Revaluation is just one of a number of factors that help determine rates.

• Even if the value of your property has increased significantly, that doesn’t mean your rates will rise by the same amount.

• Revaluation won’t impact rates until July 2022.

If you are concerned about paying your rates, there is support available to you.

Head to aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/rates-help for information on rates rebates, postponements and flexible payment options.

22-PRO-0387_BB

Recycling only

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

35

LOCAL NEWS

Ponsonby Park - APRIL UPDATE By the time you read this update, Council’s consultation for the 2022-2023 budget will have been completed. But we already have some good news!

The (volunteer) community-led design group is delighted Council has committed to; “… start progressing stage one at 254 Ponsonby Road. This will include budget for detailed design and community engagement in 2022/2023 being made available two years earlier than previously communicated, followed by consent and construction from 2023/2024 onwards.”

It will also be:

This is great news for the community which has shown significant and sustained engagement for the new civic space. It was back in 2017, through a physical and online virtual exhibition, that the LandLAB Park+ concept design was chosen for the development.

· a place for local and international tourists to pause and recharge before experiencing more of what Ponsonby has to offer.

The Park+ design for Ponsonby Park will be an urban oasis that will be good for the people, good for the environment, and good for Auckland.

· a place to learn to ride a bike, to get married, to rest and relax, or to be energised and entertained.

It will: · be an urban space for events, the Arts, relaxation, and building connections with people. · protect our harbours by treating and mitigating stormwater run-off. · be an exemplar of sustainable development that includes rain gardens, green walls, and a green roof. This will encourage inner-city bio-diversity and become part of the pollinator pathway network.

· a place for Matariki, Diwali, and other cultural celebrations and festivals. · a place for our hospitality and retail workforce to enjoy a break or to have their lunch.

· a place for a farmers’ or artists’ market.

In short, it will be a place of diversity and inclusion, where EVERYONE is welcome.

The development of Ponsonby Park, the new civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road, will be underway from 1 July 2022.

This is now only three months away. The CLD group is looking forward to continuing our work and being part of the realisation of Stage One of the development.

Ponsonby Park - Bring it on!

For further information please see our www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz

· mitigate the impacts of climate change by providing shade and carbon sequestration.

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

MELISSA LEE:

The Cost of Living Crisis So many of you have been reaching out to me recently about the cost of living crisis, about your concerns about wasteful government spending and about the future of our city’s infrastructure, particularly our water services.

I want you all to know the entire National Caucus are listening and will hold the Government to account for the increased struggles you and your households are having, whether at the pump, in the supermarket aisles, or in the fight to keep our Three Waters local and out of the hands of central government.

Simply put, it’s not good enough that the Government has let inflation and business confidence get so bad the price of a single cauliflower and a block of cheese is now nearing a week’s food budget for an elderly pensioner, a meal that once was considered the staple of economical living. This is shameful.

It’s a ridiculous situation where someone on the average wage has a marginal tax rate of 33 percent and it gets even worse when hard working Kiwis on the minimum wage only have to work a 44-hour week to face a marginal tax rate of 30 cents on the dollar.

This together with increased rents, petrol price hikes, and bracket creep on your hard-earned taxes moving people into yet higher tax bands, it is no wonder we have a cost of living crisis in New Zealand.

National has a plan to end this unacceptable situation and provide some welcome relief to New Zealanders who are living paycheck to paycheck and barely making ends meet while Covid-19 continues to make it incredibly difficult for people to work and live their lives.

We’ve called on the Government to deliver immediate tax relief by adjusting tax brackets to account for this crisis. Let’s hope they listen.

This month, it is important for me to acknowledge the Muslim community as they begin their preparations for the month of Ramadan. This time of spiritual reflection and contemplation is even more poignant during the ongoing Covid-19 season

with devotees unable to travel on their Hajj journeys or to see friends and family overseas in the cultural homelands. Please know that my thoughts are with those of you who will be using the month of Ramadan to remember loved ones lost over the past year and, Covid willing, I look forward to sharing an Iftar meal with you in the coming weeks.

I also want to acknowledge the many Indian, Hindu and South East Asian communities around our city who would usually have been celebrating the amazing Festival of Colour, Holi, right now. Most celebrations have had to be cancelled or scaled down into smaller family and friends affairs due to the Covid-19 situation.

I always enjoy the spirit of the Holi Festival with the laughter and brightness the occasion gives for young and old alike to throw coloured powders at each other (with affection of course), get out on a ‘colour run’ and in general, to spend time with one another in the spirit of light-heartedness and fun. I look forward to enjoying Holi again next year when hopefully by then, we won’t have the restrictions we do now and hope to see some of you there.

Until next time... (MELISSA LEE MP)  PN E: mplee@parliament.govt.nz

If you require any assistance I and my office are always happy and ready to provide advice and support Please get in touch on 09 520 0538 or at MPLee@parliament.govt.nz to make an appointment.

Melissa Lee National List MP based in Auckland MPLee@parliament.govt.nz • melissalee.co.nz •

mpmelissalee

Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

37

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

SOFIA ROGER WILLIAMS: VEGAN

VIBE - MEKONG BABY

It’s about that time of the year when work is suddenly catching up, the colder seasons are approaching, and we’re all having to stop procrastinating and truly get ourselves out of summer vacation mode.

Equally however, we still have to take the time to treat and look after ourselves.

This month, my friends and I took a free night opportunity to get out of the house and our studying frenzies to relax and have a night for ourselves. Each of us craving something along the lines of Asian cuisine, we landed on Mekong Baby.

Over the past month, I’ve switched to becoming more gluten free - partly through listening to my body and how it’s affecting me, and partly because one of my best friends is celiac and it makes us a better pair to go out for food if we both don’t eat gluten. Therefore, I was particularly excited to see that the entirety of the vegan menu at Mekong Baby was also gluten free. In retrospect, this was something that I used to be annoyed by - seeing menus constantly making every vegan dish gluten free as well - but maybe I’m becoming a true Ponsonby chick so it’s more appealing nowadays.

As much as the menu is important in a restaurant, what often sells me is the atmosphere, energy and service. As I waited for my friends to arrive - being the early bird I am, as well as the ever frustrating bus timetable clashes and cancelling holding my friends up - the service I received was attentive and welcoming.

Once they arrived, we naturally split up into two groups when ordering - the two meat lovers together and the two pescatarians joining me, the pesky vegan. After much deliberation, we ordered the roasted cauliflower curry with steamed jasmine rice and the vegan Pad See Ew.

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

As much as I enjoyed the Pad See Ew, it was the curry that really stood out for me. Another friend had told me about how good Mekong Baby’s curries were, but I had clearly underestimated just HOW good they really are. It was a sweet, salty, spicy, creamy, aromatic explosion all in one. The cauliflower melts in your mouth, and the flavours of the kaffir lime leaves and Thai basil shine through and tie the whole dish together. I could not recommend this more.

After feeling slightly at a loss at what I missed from not being able to go through the whole vegan menu, I came back two nights later with my mother to share the last three dishes on my list - the Vietnamese veggie rolls, smashed green papaya salad and the salt and pepper tofu.

The veggie rolls were paired with an addictive spicy peanut sauce - classic, refreshing and enjoyable. We paired the salt and pepper tofu with steamed jasmine rice and fell in love with the pickled turmeric and striking flavours throughout.

However again, there was one dish that stood out from the rest; I’ve had many respectable papaya salads over my time, but this one was exceptional. It was the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, crunchy and fresh and it paired wonderfully with the salt and pepper tofu.

Mekong Baby is a stalwart on Ponsonby Road sitting proudly on a prominent corner with significant amounts of outdoor seating - something important to many of us in the current red light system. It’s family friendly, a great place to meet and share food with friends and offers plenty of options for all.

(SOFIA ROGER WILLIAMS)  PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

NEW AUTUMN MENU AT DIDA’S As we head into the cooler months the chimney is swept, the fire wood ordered, and our new autumn menu just perfect.

Come on in, enjoy a glass of quality wine and a plate to share.

PLATES TO SHARE Prawn tacos, tomato salsa, tamari (3) $16 Chicken liver parfait, cherry, walnut, toasted sourdough $16 Chargrilled chicken slider, chorizo, tomato, baby cos $12 Didas fried chicken, ten spices w/ chipotle aioli $14 Fried calamari with lemon aioli $16 Crispy fried potatoes, w/smoked paprika, aioli ~ * $12 Stuffed eggplant, provolone, goat cheese, pinenut ~ * $16 Cauliflower bites, w/almond parsley and lemon aioli V $16 Glazed baby beetroot, ricotta, w almond parsley V * $16 Tigelle, San Daniele prosciutto, tomatoes, bocconcini $23 Australian Prawns, garlic & chilli butter, parsley, lemon * $24 Lamb rump skewers, beet glaze, popped quinoa * $20 Pork belly, burnt honey & soy glaze, apple salad * $24 We’ve got all the safety measures in place and are looking forward to looking after you at Didas. More than ever, it’s definitely time to support local! We are open Tuesday – Saturday from 4pm.

DIDA’S, 60 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 2813, www.didaswinelounge.co.nz

NE W AUTUMN MENU 60 JERVOIS RD

(0 9) 376 2 813

DIDAS.CO.NZ

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

39

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FACES @ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET Perzen Patel makes delicious ready-to-cook Indian pastes that Rushad sells at Grey Lynn Farmers Market on Sunday mornings.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Mumbai. I came here with my mother when I was fifteen.

That must have been a big change after living in such a big city.

Yes - it was a shock. I wondered where all the buildings and all the people were. It was my first experience of a co-ed school. here had become much more diverse and interesting than when I left.

How did you and Rushad meet?

Our parents were good friends so we had met as kids but we re-connected when I was on a four month exchange to Canada, while I was at AUT. Rushad was studying in Florida and we linked up through social media and then in person.

How did you get into your ingredient business?

He visited a few times and we had a long-distance relationship for a while before I moved back to India to get married.

I knew that I wanted to start a food-based business so I applied to, and was accepted into, the Kitchen Project. They provided excellent training and helped me to focus my business.

I wanted to provide the stepping stones that I needed before I learnt to cook. We provide authentic flavours that home cooks can adapt to suit their personal cooking style.

How was it moving back?

You and Rushad are both Parsi, tell me about that.

Food was my biggest challenge because I had never learnt to cook Indian food. As a student in New Zealand I had been more into cooking pasta and European food – I ate a lot of butter chicken.

Parsi is the community of Indians who are descended from Iranian Zoroastrians who escaped persecution by migrating to India. Parsi food is distinctive from being a blend of Persian, Indian, and British food.

So how did you cope back in India?

Are your ingredients Parsi flavours?

I rang my Mum for recipes and she just gave me long lists of ingredients and I had no idea what to do with them. I had all these pieces of paper so I started a food blog as a joke, making fun of my naivety. That blog turned out to be very popular and it connected me to lots of local foodies and I got lots of helpful cooking tips.

Our Coastal Curry Paste is – it is my grandmother’s recipe. But the other ingredients are more well-known Indian flavours that go beyond butter chicken. We are very mindful that we need to meet people where they are, and build a bridge for them, and gradually pull people into our world.

Did Rushad come back to New Zealand with you?

How does the market help your business?

Was the blog successful?

Then you came back to New Zealand

I like to tinker in the kitchen, but Rushad is a real people person – he loves meeting market goers on Sunday mornings.

We love the feedback that we get from our customers. We developed our cashew korma because some people told us that they think Indian food is too spicy – there’s no chilli in the cashew korma. And a customer sent me a photo of them using our tandori paste to spice up avocado on toast – I love that creative approach to food.

Yes – we came back with our two toddlers so that we could be with my Mum. I was delighted to see that the food scene

www.dollymumma.com

Yes - I knew it was successful when someone asked me to do some catering. I was surprised, but Rushad encouraged me to give it a go. I won an award for the blog, but the real benefits were that I learnt to cook and run a food business, and I got to indulge my passion for writing.

GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET @ the Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, www.greylynnfarmersmarket.co.nz

Sunday mornings at the Grey Lynn Community Centre 510 Richmond Road 40 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY Mann's daughter (Mannat) welcomes customers for a cheese tasting over the weekends.

BHANA BROTHERS HAS NEW OWNERS Bhana brothers started approximately eighty years ago by Bhana Fakir and then by his four sons, Harry, Nan, Arvind and Pravin.

The business has been acquired by Mann to start My Grocer under the umbrella and legacy of Bhana Brothers. The new owners intend to follow in their footsteps to the standard and style of service introduced by them in the iconic shop in Ponsonby.

As spokeman, Mann told Ponsonby News, "We have the united foods of the world in our store and customers especially come in for our range of international cheeses which are reasonably priced. We also offer a range of condiments, pasta, sauces and chocolate.

"We have been getting very good comments from our customers who come into the shop for the clean and tidy presentation of the wide variety of merchandise and choices we have in the shop. They also say that they have been waiting for a grocery shop like ours with an international range of foods at reasonable prices.

"We have a cheese tasting every week on Saturday and Sunday for our customers to try and other specials on grocery items from all over the world. We look forward to seeing you at My Grocer Bhana Brothers. We offer a little bit of everything.”

129 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 5329 my_grocer_ponsonby

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

41

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

PHIL PARKER:

WINES FOR AUTUMN Here we go folks, as we head into cooler days and think about getting out the winter duvet and popping the electric blanket back on the bed.

My wife swears we have an early autumn, with lots of leaves dropping and feijoas popping up all over Auckland from late March. This month I’m featuring wines from two South Island family producers, the Donaldson family’s Pegasus Bay from North Canterbury, and the Ibbotson family’s Saint Clair from Marlborough. Great wines to enjoy and share with your besties as the temperatures drop. Cheers!

Main Divide North Canterbury Gewürztraminer 2020 - $21

Main Divide North Canterbury Pinot Noir 2020 - $25

Consistently great value pinot, one of my favourites. Soft, smoky and savoury, with red fruits and cherry. Silky soft tannins and lengthy spicy, umami palate. Food match venison or rabbit.

Veg option – pasta with truffle and mushroom sauce.

Available: Widely.

Saint Clair Vicar’s Choice Marlborough Pinot Gris 2019 $13

From Pegasus Bay’s great value second tier label. Unctuous and lush, with a herbaceous and floral palate. Flavours of grilled grapefruit, lychee and preserved pineapple in a medium sweet style with a long finish. Great with Vietnamese or Malaysian cuisine. Available: Widely.

A lovely fruit bomb and a refreshing change from the lean ‘n’ mean pinot gris style. Off dry with soft acids, lime citrus, apple juice, quinine and a tangy finish. Great as an aperitif or with seafood or Thai foods. Available: Countdown.

Main Divide North Canterbury Rosé 2021 - $21

Made from a variety of grapes, this rosé is herbaceous and crisp with notes of strawberry and cherry and a hint of rhubarb.

Tangy with a clean dry finish. Would make a very nice entrée palate cleanser or aperitif. Available: Widely.

Herbaceous, with stone fruit characters and a soft finish.

Flavours of peach, nectarine and subtle toasty oak, finishing with a yeasty brioche aftertaste. Nice chilled as a picnic wine or a friendly BBQ white wine option for the Sauvie averse.

Available: Fine Wine Delivery Co., Countdown.

Main Divide North Canterbury Sauvignon Blanc 2021 - $21

Saint Clair Hawkes Bay Cabernet Merlot 2019 - $21

Zesty typical sav profile. Rich and crisply acidic with flavours of gooseberry, green bell pepper, grapefruit and passionfruit and a nudge of herbal grassiness. Fab with Vietnamese cuisine e.g., fresh vege or prawn rolls. Available: Widely.

Saint Clair Origin Marlborough Chardonnay 2019 - $22

Soft and ripe with typical cabernet notes of blackcurrant, fruitcake plum and hints of dustiness. Medium tannins and a lengthy finish. A good match with slow cooked beef or a rich ratatouille. Available: Countdown. (PHIL PARKER)  PN

FINE WINE & FOOD TOURS “No. 2 Auckland Wine Tour” – TripAdvisor Your host, Phil Parker wine writer.

Affordable tours for small and large groups.

E: phil.parker@xtra.co.nz

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

www.finewinetours.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

INDULGENT CHOCOLATE OR TRADITIONAL EASTER GOODNESS Hot Cross Bun season is the most exciting and busy season of the year for Bread & Butter and every year it seems to get busier.

Tens of thousands of buns get made and fly off the shelves so quickly that a second batch needs to be baked later in the day.

The buns are made using organic fruit, which does not contain sulphur as a preservative and thus the buns have a subtler fruity flavour. Most of the other ingredients are organic too. The dough is made in the morning and fermented for 18 hours, before then being baked the morning of the following day.

This year, for the first time, Bread & Butter is offering a chocolate version, which is super indulgent and great for everyone - who isn’t a fan of dried fruit?

Enjoy toasted with butter!

BREAD & BUTTER BAKERY, 34 Westmoreland Street West, T: 09 378 9111, www.breadandbutter.nz

SOURDOUGHS & PASTRIES

www.breadandbutter.nz

GREY LYNN AND AT 3 FARMERS MARKETS ONLINE ORDERS AND HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

43

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

WHY NOT TREAT YOURSELF THIS EASTER? It most certainly feels like the right thing to do. There is a host of exquisite wines instore that will all be simply perfect to treat yourself with.

For me this Easter it will definitely be Bordeaux. At Glengarry we have recently landed a series of containers packed with top wines from brilliant vintages.

Bordeaux has been incredibly lucky recently with the 2018, 2019, and 2020 vintages - a trifecta of excellent years.

Looking back, 2015 and 2016 were also superb. The vintage sitting in the middle, 2017, was a tricky year that has produced many surprises.

With all the Bordeaux we have at Glengarry you can be immensely confident with your purchase. We have tried and tested all before importing them, and have brought them to New Zealand in temperature-controlled containers, an expensive way to ship for sure, however one that ensures the wines are received in excellent condition.

Amongst the wines we have are a collection of second wines.

Once you have tasted a few of these superb expressions, you will concur that referring to them as ‘second wines’ could come across as a little miserly.

The concept of second wines was initially created to improve the quality of the top wines by isolating the finest fruit, with the little brothers invariable produced from the estate’s younger vines.

Nowadays, thanks to a great deal of concentrated effort, these second wines are more an early-drinking expression of the top wine rather than a ‘second wine’ with the drop in quality that title implies. All the second wines are from exceptional vintages. Many of these are drinking superbly right now but will also benefit from short-to medium-term cellaring – certainly less cellaring than the Grand Cru Classe wines will require.

There is also a brilliant range of Petit Chateau. Some of the best value Bordeaux wines are crafted by the Petits (small) Chateaux. They offer serious, estate-grown, and chateaubottled wines crafted by quality conscious individuals.

These producers work hard at upping the stakes, and many are delivering earlier drinking, riper styles which allow a user-friendly route into the complex world of Bordeaux wine appreciation. In the great years (like 2019, 2018, 2016 and 2015), the best of them offer excellent drinking and exceptional value. We have tasted, tested and traipsed

our way through hundreds of wines to find these, the Petits Chateaux, from lesser but still worthy vintages that are at the top of their class. www.glengarrywines.co.nz

EASTER TREATS Indulge yourself with these great wines WWW.GLENGARRY.CO.NZ | P: 0800 733 505 | E: SALES@GLENGARRY.CO.NZ

44 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HAVE YOU TRIED NEW LEAF’S ‘HOPBUCHA?’ This is our trademarked non-alcoholic beer, brewed right here in Ponsonby with pure kiwi hops. We describe Hopbucha as non-alcoholic, no gluten and no guilt.

Everything you love about the beer without the beer!

Try a free sample at our taproom and see where we brew: New Leaf Kombucha Taproom, 37 Crummer Road Or order online: www.newleafkombucha.nz FREE DELIVERY in Auckland!

Photography Kate Battersby

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

210 SYMONDS STREET T: 09 377 1911 www.sidatthefrenchcafe.co.nz sidatthefrenchcafe

SIDART, Level 1, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz

- Gusto Italiano GUSTO MEANING ‘TASTE AND ENJOYMENT’

Photography Greta Kenyon

When you dine with us, the focus is on freshly prepared classic dishes, featuring an excellent range of pasta, seafood, meats and our pizza classics.

We also offer our pasta dishes to takeaway, phone for details or check our website for the menu.

263 PONSONBY RD, THREE LAMPS, 09 361 1556 www.gustoitaliano.co.nz

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

HOSPO’ FIGUREHEAD RETIRES Young Guns take over landmark ‘pop up’ hospitality venue.

A trio of burger flippin’ hospitality entrepreneurs have bought one of Ponsonby’s busiest food and beverages operations in what is being seen as a ‘passing of the baton’ to the next generation of bar and restaurant operators.

Parade Burgers owners Sean Bone, Bryan Anderson, and Nicholas Fury have bought the popular licensed Midnight Gardener venue owned by hospo’ legends Luke Dallow, Shane Liu, and Phil Clark. The Ponsonby Road corner site is instantly recognisable for its dual shipping container structure, complete with a picket fence upper level, and abundance of vegetation around customer seating.

Parade Burgers will be relocating to the new venue just a few hundred metres away from their current site, with Midnight Gardener to be rebranded. Midnight Gardener defied industry trends during the past two years of Covid disrupted trading, making a dollar when similar operations in the Ponsonby Road strip struggled to stay open.

Midnight Gardener hit the headlines last year when it traded as a rentable ‘picnic venue’ – allowing patrons to bring in their own food and beverages and enjoy a few hours at an unstaffed eatery.

Following the sale of Midnight Gardener, Sumthin Dumplin founder Shane Liu and Dizengoff Café operator Phil Clark will now concentrate on keeping their core foodservice operations open to the public.

Meanwhile, Luke Dallow says his career as a residential real estate salesperson with Barfoot & Thompson Ponsonby is now consuming all of his focus, and is looking at closing the hospitality chapter of his life.

“The hospitality industry has been good to me. Very good. I’m a big believer in karma, so it was time to pass on some of my good fortune to the next generation of those coming through,” said Dallow.

“Midnight Gardener has come through the Covid years pretty well – much better in fact than many other bars and eateries around Auckland. That’s mainly because as a ‘pop up’ business we set up with minimal overheads and virtually no debt. We kept the menu and fitout simple to keep kitchen costs down, and as a result we got through the tough times okay.

“But my heart just isn’t in hospo’ anymore. I’ve got other career aspirations I want to achieve. Shane and Phil feel likewise, so we all decided to hand over the reins to three guys bristling with enthusiasm and drive. We know that they will have a great business and while the Midnight Gardener name will disappear, its physical presence will live on.”

Dallow’s career in Auckland’s hospitality scene dates back to the 1990s when he managed the now departed downtown drinking and nightspot venue, Park in the Bar. Dallow opened up his first restaurant, Salsa, in Grey Lynn in the early 2000s then sold the business and established legendary Auckland drinking and dining establishment Malt Bar – still operating today under new ownership.

Under Dallow’s reign, Malt Bar achieved global fame in 2005 when the last cigarette ever smoked in the premises before New Zealand bars and restaurants went ‘smoke free’ was sold on trademe for $7,475.

Over the ensuing decades Dallow set up the vast Sale Street bar and eatery – now rebranded as Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen - near Victoria Park in what was one of the biggest and most lavish bar openings Auckland had ever seen with multiple and artists performing on two stages, followed by running the Red Hummingbird hospitality venue within the Sky City complex, the iconic Chapel Bar & Bistro in Ponsonby Road, and most recently opening Midnight Gardener in Ponsonby during the middle of the pandemic in 2020.

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

47

FASHION + STYLE

ORSINI JEWELLERS’

Sarah Hutchings on Jewellery Style, Elon Musk, and Italian Musings Sarah Hutchings, director of Orsini Fine Jewellery, is in the know with what is fashionable in the European jewellery world and no stranger to beautiful things.

The name is also appropriate, as Orsini showcases a collection of fine jewellery that director Sarah Hutchings lovingly sources from Italy.

Who or what can you thank for your success?

My mother. She always worked hard, had high standards and loved unconditionally. Unfortunately, my mother has passed on now, but I never have a day that goes by that I do not remember her.

What is very important to you as a New Zealand female business owner?

Here, she gives us an insight into her current obsessions and shares some helpful advice around the latest European jewellery trends for 2022 and beyond.

Integrity and giving back. I try to support and raise funds for many charities. My favourite is NZGCF (New Zealand Gynaecological Cancer Foundation) mainly due to my mother passing away from endometrial cancer far too young.

It is a charity educating women and raising awareness about gynaecological cancer. I encourage all women to visit their site, it may save your life www.nzgcf.org.nz

My personal style can be defined by:

A place in New Zealand you recently discovered:

"Fine jewellery is not merely about accessorising. It’s about quality pieces that reflect your unique sense of style that will be cherished from generation to generation," Sarah Hutchings.

Accessories. As all Italian women would agree, you cannot leave home without impeccable, jewellery, shoes, belt and bag. Paired with jeans and a white shirt, floaty dresses for the summer, and everything looks amazing! Another element is authenticity and awareness of sustainability, so I love natural leathers and real jewellery with authentic materials that last. Real jewellery is much better for the planet than cheap plated jewellery; it looks classy, and it is not going to end up in a bin.

An object I would never part with is: ​​

My paintings I have collected in Italy. I have memories of a musty art gallery in Amalfi and it is the story that make the piece special. I also love the Versace dishes I collected just off Via Montenapoleone in Milan.

The most memorable places I have visited:

Puglia in the south of Italy where the water is so clear and the coastline wonderfully peppered with a profusion of medieval towns. I also adore the Italian Riviera, Sicily, and the Amalfi Coast. I could keep going, but I will stop at my favourites.

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

The Lost Spring Geothermal Pool in Whitianga. It was such a wonderful surprise. There were cocktails in the pools; surrounded with tropical plants, we could pretend we were in the Pacific islands.

My guilty pleasure and source of relaxation is:

Coming home after work and putting my feet up on my couch in my courtyard under the grapevine. Especially in the summertime as it is a cool haven. I also have a lion fountain - there is nothing better than water to soothe the soul.

The podcast I love to listen to:

I recently listened to a three-hour discussion with Elon Musk, who was so interesting and knowledgeable! I was particularly interested in his views on climate change and was shocked listening to his discussions on the state of the planet. As a result I have become far more aware of the environment and what I and my business can do to help.

My favourite songs are:

Muy Tranquilo by Gramatik. Potere Ana / Drift Away-Remix.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Gordon, Gino and Fred: Road Trip. I love their silly banter and their reminiscing about all the places I have been missing visiting in Italy.

My favourite Instagram accounts are:

Leonie Hanne, Chiara Ferragni and vikyandthekid. I love their style and musings. Both women are based in Europe and having spent so much time living in London and travelling in Italy and Germany I get my European fix! Technology is so fabulous - you don't need to travel to be up to date with the latest obsessions.

FASHION + STYLE

I can’t miss watching an episode of:

What practical advice can you offer with jewellery and mask wearing?

Wearing masks means that most of a woman's face is covered up, so jewellery is more important than ever as it is still visible.

Women also like purchasing the smaller hoop earrings that fully close at the back, so they are easy to wear with masks, especially if they need to take their masks on and off throughout the day. The earrings with butterfly backs, or hoop and open dangle style earrings, are easy to lose when taking off your mask. Styles I recommend - the petite prasiolite Nudo Earrings by Pomellato.

On my wish list is:

The oversized Gucci tote bag. I am always carrying around far too much (just in case I need it) from home to work and back again.

A new piece of jewellery I’m in love with is:

There are so many pieces it is hard to decide. I love the new Marco Bicego Marrakech Onde collection which has just arrived from Italy. The Italian hand-woven link in 18k gold is very classy and classic. Worn with additional layers of Masai and Marrakech bracelets, also by Marco Bicego, is very chic.

Everyday luxury.

The best jewellery advice for women:

Choose the jewellery that suits you and what you 'love'. Ignore the trends. The fine jewellery, predominantly Italian jewellery, we stock at Orsini is classically beautiful and timeless. It is important to select the colour gold that suits your skin type.

For example we stock a lot of 18k rose gold as it looks so amazing on so many skin tones. Jewellery is also designed to bring pleasure and make women feel beautiful when worn.

It is essential that women love the jewels and they will then get the pleasure, enjoyment and compliments as the jewellery makes them feel beautiful.

My favourite jewellery trend at the moment:

Wearing diamonds and fine jewellery with jeans and more casual clothing. This is a liberating feeling. Jewellery is not necessarily for saving for that special occasion, especially when we have had so few of these during lockdowns. Mind you, wear bling within reason; there is nothing worse than jewels for the red carpet being worn to the supermarket!

Another trend is the mixing of gold colours and layering, whether rings, necklaces or bracelets, and a combination of textures. Diamond earrings and stretch bracelets by Al Coro (image below) are staples that never go out of fashion and are super easy to wear with any outfits.

The best gift I ever received was:

My Wheaten Terrier, Bella. She is an absolute delight and is always so excited to see me when I get home from work.

I am inspired by:

My partner Kent, who is forever calm and positive. He is usually always right, which is really annoying!

One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received is:

Just do it! It is so easy to procrastinate and think of excuses, but if you are really wanting to achieve something, I love this simple piece of advice.

What are you looking forward to in 2022?

I am super excited to be expanding my store in Parnell to having a larger, luxury, Italian inspired space, for jewellery and my own high jewellery and engagement rings. I have a passion for design and love creating one-of-a-kind pieces and quality engagement rings with beautiful diamonds. Being a diamond grader, I love selecting diamonds that are really going to perform and sparkle. I am still apprehensive about travelling - the world is still too unsettled, but I love being able to bring Italian style to women in New Zealand.

What advice would you give your younger self?

'Don't take life too seriously. Smile a little, laugh a lot and treasure every moment'.

ORSINI FINE JEWELLERY, 241 Parnell Road, 09 354 3115, www.orsini.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

49

2.

4.

1. Maaike Infinite Dress - $453 2. Moke Karen Trench - $277 3. Curate Ill Be There Top - $259 4. Lemon Tree What Sweatshirt - $163

1.

3.

ZEBRANO, 22 Morrow Street, Newmarket - opposite Westfield, T: 09 523 2500, www.zebrano.co.nz

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

䰀攀洀漀渀 吀爀攀攀

䌀甀爀愀琀攀 戀礀 吀爀攀氀椀猀攀 䌀漀漀瀀攀爀

刀甀渀搀栀漀氀稀 䴀愀椀渀氀椀渀攀

䴀攀氀愀 倀甀爀搀椀攀

䴀漀礀甀爀甀

稀攀戀爀愀渀漀

䴀漀礀甀爀甀

FASHION + STYLE

@ZEBRANO

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE

CRANE BROTHERS OPEN ITS NEW PONSONBY STORE After nearly 23 years in business, local menswear brand Crane Brothers will open its first Ponsonby store.

Located in Three Lamps at 271 Ponsonby Road, the store represents a major expansion for the business and comes at a time of strategic realignment with an expansion of the offer from purely suit-centric to a complete lifestyle brand for men.

“We’d always resisted having more than one store in any city,” says founder Murray Crane, “but it felt like the right time to expand our footprint with a new door. Importantly, we have a great, experienced team so we feel confident that our standards will be maintained. Between changes in the CBD and Covid-19, there’s been a dramatic shift in how our clients live and work.

It’s been difficult for many of them to get into the city, so it made sense for us to bring what we do to them.”

Crane says that the pandemic has also accelerated a general shift in how men are dressing - something the store’s fit out and product will reflect. “Even before the pandemic, men were beginning to dress less formally as workplace guidelines relaxed.

With the move towards flexible and remote working, this has accelerated and we’ve found that a lot of men don’t necessarily know what they should wear instead of a suit.

“Tailoring remains the foundation of the brand, but with the new range we have showcased what a new contemporary wardrobe looks like, with a lot of classic, sophisticated options that fall outside of a traditional two-piece suit or jacket and trouser. Smart knitwear, casual jackets, denim - these are all essential parts of how men dress for their day. What’s exciting is that everything on offer is available made-to-measure, so even if you’re selecting something as simple as a pair of chinos, you’re getting the same attention to detail, selection and personalisation that we’ve always offered with suits.”

For the interior, the focus was on creating a space that shared some references with the High Street flagship whilst charting its own course. “This is a more relaxed space and we wanted that to feel evident when people entered,” says Crane. “We want everyone to feel at ease and at home here, like they can really take their time.” Centred around a restored French draper’s table, with bespoke racking and hand-blown glass light fixtures, the store is a warmer, softer space, keeping in line with the more easy-wearing product offer.

It’s a significant move in what is currently a challenging market, but Crane sees positive opportunities with a new store. “Many of the internal changes we’ve made at Crane Brothers were well under way before Covid-19 hit, so it’s left us in quite a strong position,” says Crane. “We’ve invested heavily in digital over the past year, which has paid off for us, but we really believe in bricks and mortar. I built this business around that personal experience that you can only get in store, and after 23 years in the city I’m excited to be able to bring that to Ponsonby as well.”

CRANE BROTHERS, 271 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 217 1271, www.crane-brothers.com

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

51

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

CBD FOR COVID + THC "SAFE AND EFFECTIVE FOR ALZHEIMERS" = DIY HEALTHCARE? TADHG STOPFORD:

‘Clinical Trials for CBD’ to prevent Covid-19 based on promising animal data.

Low doses of THC may be beneficial in Alzheimer’s disease.

In a mouse model, low doses of THC showed beneficial effects, “suggesting low-dose THC is a safe and effective treatment for AD.” MedSafe has just approved a THC rich Type 1 Cannabis as a ‘tea’. You put the flower in hot water, steep, and then add milk. The fats in the milk capture the cannabinoids (which are hydrophobic) and would otherwise stick to the sides of the teapot when it cools. Ask your doctor for a prescription… or grow your own.

DOSING: Start low, go slow, figure it out. Be patient.

If using orally, patients put a couple of drops under their tongue morning and night, and add another drop every three to five days until they find the dose that does what they need.

Topically, it's applied to the thin skin over veins (eg. wrists and temples) and in the belly button.

(NB. The soft tissue under the tongue is a gland that will absorb cannabinoids, so patients usually let the oil sit there for two minutes before swallowing).

DIY Healthcare with Cannabis / Hemp

Because it's illegal; if you want to do DIY, you'll have to grow your own, or get it from your kids. I am not advising you to do either however.

In general, it doesn't matter what type of Cannabis you grow because cannabinoids are your body's own medicine. What is most important is how patients use them, and the dose.

HOW: For therapeutic use, it's often best to use an oil, which can be applied under the tongue, to the skin, or made into suppositories. (NB, even THC rich suppositories have little to no psychoactivity). These modalities allow for larger, cleaner, doses than smoking.

To make cannabis oil cannabis is put into a slow cooker, or similar, with olive oil or MCT oil. This will draw the cannabinoids out. Strain. Cool. Bottle. Cocoa butter is usually added if suppositories are needed for endometriosis, bowel cancer etc. There are plenty of recipes on the internet, have a look if you don't believe me!

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

Type 1 cannabis is THC rich “marijuana”.

(When HEATED, will usually get you high) Type 2 plants have balanced THC/CBD ratios.

(When HEATED, get you less high) Type 3 plants are CBD dominant (Hemp) and Type 4 are CBG dominant. (Hemp: NO HIGH) Cannabis seeds are easily found online. Maybe you should have a look and if you do claim your right to self-health care, use the roots too! It really is a miraculous plant.

PN (TADHG STOPFORD)  These different types each have different therapeutic profiles, but are all useful.

If you have any condition specific questions, send them to learn@thehempfoundation.org.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Astrid 4 drawer chest in clear finish Swamp Kauri $3980

Newport hall table in Ash timber new Flax/Tussock finish $1980

Trenail timberside sofa chair in a choice of covers from $3980

Bespoke Newport 10 drawer chest in Ash timber new Tussock/Black finish $6590

@ ROSE & HEATHER

ROSE & HEATHER, 366 Great North Road, T: 09 376 2895, www.roseandheather.co.nz

3 6 6 G r e a t N o r t h R o a d , G r e y Ly n n

t:09 376 2895

w w w. r o s e a a n d h e a t h e r. c o . n z

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

53

FUTURE GENERATION

HONOUR MITCHELL: TEEN

PICS - FUEL FOR SCHOOL

Let's face it, the school day is exhausting. Classes can drag on FOREVER and often you come home looking like something the cat's dragged in.

Perhaps the reason our days feel so long is because we don’t have the sustenance and resulting energy we need.

This problem starts with the simplest of things like: breakfast.

It's been said before and I’ll say it again, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. What you eat in these early waking hours sets your brain and body up to thrive until your next snack break. And then there’s the problematic school lunches - one of the most universally loathed meals ever.

Soggy sandwiches, a mushy apple, the bruised banana, you get the picture. There never seems to be an enjoyable homemade lunch option. And finally when you get home and crash out on your bed from after-school fatigue, you need a quick snack to cheer you up, but not one that will fill you up before dinner (my mum's pet peeve). Join me, on my quest for finding the perfect school day fuel.

LUNCHTIME

My lunches tend to be quite repetitive and I find myself constantly getting bored. There is not much time in the school mornings to experiment with new foods like I would do if I were at home. Nevertheless, this year I’ve decided to spruce up my lunchbox each month with new, transportable dishes that augment my usual staples. My current obsession is: nutty kale salad and spicy mini baked kumara. To ease the stress, I start my lunch prep on Sunday night so I can enjoy sleeping to the last possible minute during the weekdays. So why not give these recipes a try?

Spicy Mini Baked Kumara

· Cut a large kumara into small cubes (so this can last you the whole week). · Line a tray with baking paper.

BREAK THE FAST

No doubt your stomach will be rumbling, since it's now about 12 hours after your last meal. Mmmmm, the breakfast dilemma - trust me I’ve tried everything.

Take the initiative and sort yourself out with a meal that will sustain your energy levels and leave your belly smiling up at you from below. I think I may have cracked the code and found the most effective food (simple, nutritious and filling) in good old porridge! Perhaps your mind is skipping to that white, sloppy, bland stuff? But don't be too quick to judge porridge!

With the right flavours and ingredients it can be transformed into something you look forward to. I have included my recipe below. However, don't feel confined - everyone has different tastes and once you identify the flavours that appeal, you can create your own delicious bowl of goodness. (Note: This is a perfect breakfast to take in a thermos to eat after an early morning sport's practice.)

Honour's porridge

· ½ cup of oats, with a sprinkle of cinnamon. · Soak oats overnight in 3-4 tbsps of water. · In the morning add 5 tbsps of milk (I like VitaSoy Protein Plus) then simmer the mixture for five minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. · At this point, add half a cup of mixed berries, a heaped tsp of peanut butter, a few drops of stevia, stir and cook for a further minute, yum!

· Put the kumara pieces on the tray and lightly coat with coconut oil. · Mix up a paste of ½ a tbsp of red curry paste, ½ tbsp of tamari, ½ tbsp of sesame oil and1 tbsp of tahini. · Massage the paste into the kumara until completely covered. · Then cook the kumara for 30 minutes at 200◦C. · Once cooled, put in a container and store in the fridge.

Nutty Kale Salad:

· Take 300 grams of kale and rip it into small, salad like pieces. · Place in a bowl and add a tbsp of your chosen oil and two tbsp of lime juice, massage the kale till desired texture is reached (soft enough to chew). · In a blender add a small knob of ginger root, three tbsps of lime juice, one cup of peanut butter, a clove of garlic, two tsps of miso, one tbsp of maple syrup, one tbsp of sesame oil, one tbsp of Coconut Aminos Seasoning, 1/2 a tsp of mustard and blend together. · Add water if needed to thin down the dressing. · Then add the dressing to the kale and massage till it is fully coated.

Afternoon Tea

By the time you get home the lunch satiation might be starting to wear off and hunger will be your foe. This means it's time for afternoon tea! The perfect opportunity to delve into something sweet and delicious.

My absolute favourite thing to have after school is an apple and peanut butter. You might have guessed after reading this column that I have a crazy obsession with peanut butter, so bad that my mum has to restrict me from demolishing a jar every week. But I find that a fresh and crunchy apple is perfect on a hot day after school and when paired with peanut butter... it's irresistible! I’d be lying if I didn’t also tell you that I make a grab for any decadent treat that might be lurking in the pantry. Sheesh, after all that healthy cooking I deserve a goey chocolate brownie or perhaps a Little Bird macroon, and since it's the season I’m hoping I'll soon find a stash of hot cross buns and Easter eggs! (HONOUR MITCHELL)  PN

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION

LEARNING NEW SKILLS FOR CHILDREN AT NUMBERWORKS’NWORDS GREY LYNN NumberWorks’nWords Grey Lynn has only been operating since the beginning of Term 1 but already they have over 70 students attending lessons each week for English and maths.

The Grey Lynn learning centre has become one of the fastest growing NumberWorks’nWords franchises, and owners Michelle Buckley and Olivia Stewart are pleased they have opened their second centre on Richmond Road to provide tutoring to their local community.

NUMBERWORKS’NWORDS, 316 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 0816, www.NumberWorksnWords.com/nz

“There was a real need to support the local students with their learning”, says Michelle, having seen the Grey Lynn roll grow with a flurry of early enrolments. “Many of these students were having to travel out of the area for tuition, or simply have not had access to extra support locally."

“The past two years have been extremely disruptive for our students. They have missed out on many learning opportunities caused by lockdowns and restrictions due to Covid-19.

Online learning as a result of school closures has also been challenging for children”, says Olivia.

“Many parents are concerned, and rightly so, with where their children are at. They want their children to be successful with their learning, have the confidence to give new concepts a go, and believe that they can do it,” says Michelle.

With their individualised programmes based on the New Zealand curriculum, the students at NumberWorks’nWords Grey Lynn are already making progress and learning new skills.

“Our tutors work closely with students, focusing on their needs, and teaching them at their level”, says Olivia. This is what sets NumberWorks’nWords apart as a tuition provider for ages 5 - 16.

Michelle adds, “We enjoy making a difference in our students' lives. Watching them build confidence, achieve success in their learning, and have fun while they are doing it. That’s why we are here.”

To book a free learning assessment with NumberWorks’nWords Grey Lynn, get in touch with the team today.

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FUTURE GENERATION

I Love Lucy Book Review: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe Benjamin Alire Sánez - 13+ “I had a rule that it was better to be bored by yourself than to be bored with someone else. I pretty much lived by that rule. Maybe that’s why I didn’t have any friends.”

Aristotle - called Ari by his friends and family - is a sad and angry teenage boy. He doesn't have any friends, and he is okay with that as he believes everyone in his town is boring. He feels indifferent to life - and then he meets Dante who is different from the other people in Ari’s town. He's interesting, intelligent and sensitive.

The more time the two boys spend together, the more they realise they are more alike than they first thought. For a big part of this book Ari mopes around angry and sad and Dante is always there for him, worrying about him and how he feels.

Together, Dante and Ari grow, love and learn about the kind of people they want to be in this world.

I had this book recommended to me many times, so I was excited to finally get around to reading it. While I wasn’t exactly disappointed with the book, I do think it may have been slightly over-hyped. While the style of writing is beautiful, it can feel a bit excessive at times, almost like the author is using complicated words for the sake of it. As the story progresses, there is great character development which is good as Ari definitely needed it. This is a book that will make you think about the universe, growing, and soulmates. (LUCY KENNEDY)  PN  out of 5!

LETTERS & EMAILS

Available at dorothybutler.co.nz www.lucykennedywriter.wixsite.com/reviews instagram @lucykennedyreviews

CONTINUED FROM P31 GOFF PLAYS JUDGE, JURY AND EXECUTIONER

It was most enlightening to hear Mayor Phil Goff’s public explanation at the “Adoption of the Tupuna Maunga Authority Operation Plan”, for spending $2,000,000 and destroying 15,000 native trees and bushes at Western Springs.

That TMAO Plan is to destroy even more bird habitat by removing all mature international trees from all of Auckland’s volcanic cones.

Goff declared in apparent disbelief, “There were people who were opposed to the cutting down of very ancient, and I would suggest the word, ‘ugly’, pine trees at Western Springs… ha ha Councillor Coom … that you wouldn’t expect there to be opposition to, but there is! And people naturally don’t like to see trees cut down.”

Goff’s suggestion that there is a clear process of consultation since Auckland Council and their council controlled organisations are obliged to do, is correct. They follow this process: 1) they make a decision; 2) they draft a ‘Have Your Say’ multi-choice biased towards that decision; and after going through the motions, 3) they adopt their original decision.

Council then run over budget. No worries because it's not their money they’re spending, it's yours! youtu.be/HAGAUYnhId4

Concerned Ratepayer

AT WORK ON CYCLEWAYS AND THE WEST LYNN VILLAGE

So now we know it's a ‘beauty contest for trees’ with the Mayor as judge, jury and executioner!

If Ponsonby News is going to give Lisa Prager and Gael Baldock a full page each to rant against the AT work on cycleways and the West Lynn Village, the least you might require of them is that they make some practical suggestions for improvement rather than simply howling about ancient history.

Councillor Hills declared that those against tree removal are “poorly motivated”. He is Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee, and Pippa Coom is Deputy.

Yep, we (including AT) all know that AT cocked up the village last time. The flooding outside Dear Reader was appalling.

We got it. Now please shut up about it.

It seems Goff believes that killing mature trees can be mitigated by planting two million seedlings! Even primary school children, whose future they’re messing with, know that bigger trees are the more effective. All trees filter impurities from the air but some trees are better than others at removing greenhouse gases. One of the most efficient carbon absorbing trees are pines.

How might Prager and Baldock improve, say, the slope up to the pedestrian crossing? Lower the street or raise the footpath?

Both would cost millions and neither would solve the gradient challenge. A switchback ramp would, though Bill Gruar can actually roll up the existing slope.

The Mayor, and his cohort Pippa Coom, appear to have no ecological understanding. Nor do they appear to know how carbon sequestration and the conversation of carbon dioxide to oxygen works. Yet Aucklanders are now expected to pay a ‘Targeted Climate Change Rate’ to enable this destruction!

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The naysayers claim a mandate they have never received or indeed sought. They operate by virtue of the old principle known as the heckler's veto. Defending the rights of drivers to park outside shops is a losing cause in 2022.

Peter Calder, Westmere

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BEDSPACE – YOUR PERFECT ANGLE A bed is a bed is a bed – right?

Not necessarily so.

In our current world your bedroom can often also be your office, media room, hideaway, as well as a sleep centre.

Apartment style living is taking a more prominent place in urban re-development and as living spaces become more condensed it makes sense to get the most advantage out of the space you have available.

Now you can change the contour of your bed to accommodate the changes in the way you use your bedroom.

A Tempur adjustable bed base takes up no more room than the area of your mattress yet offers the ability to change the contour of both the head and foot sections. The head/ back section can incline to your choice of angle, perfect for reading, watching or checking your email. The foot end also lifts to help position yourself in total relaxation.

A pre-set position called Zero-G is activated by one button on the remote. When your spine is positioned at zero gravity, full body muscle tension is relieved and circulation improved.

This can also assist your breathing as you sleep while your Tempur mattress gently conforms to the shape of your body offering a perfect balance of total comfort and superior support.

One of the best ways you can relieve the stresses of day to day activity is to allow yourself to totally relax – in your own space.

Come and have a chat with us about how a change in your bed can have such a positive influence on your day.

BEDPOST NEWMARKET, 27 Crowhurst Street, Newmarket, T: 09 520 2221, e: newmarket@bedpost.co.nz

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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

LOGAN GRANGER:

GAIN ON SALE OF SHARES – TAXABLE OR NOT OR MAYBE? We have recently seen a noticeable increase in the number of people (more inexperienced) dabbling or investing in shares.

Several easy to trade app-based platforms such as Sharesies and Hatch, providing ability to invest small amounts at a time, and the reduced return from bank deposits have contributed to this increase.

While the investment in shares provide a good alternative, all investors, regardless if they are investing purely for the long run or for a short run for quick gains, or have a foot in both camps, need to be aware of the current tax rules relating to income from these shares and also potential gains or losses on disposal of these shares.

As different tax rules exist for taxing overseas share investments, this article is primarily concerned with the tax impact of investment in shares in New Zealand owned companies by individual investors, who form the majority of this readership.

It is not difficult to understand and digest that the most common return to investors are dividend payments, akin to fruit from tree, and dividend income forms part of taxable income irrespective of the category of investor you fall into.

While there is no capital gains tax in New Zealand, income from sale of shares is taxable in certain circumstances. Casual and new entrants may assume that they are not required to pay tax on any profits from sale of shares as they are considered to be capital gains. In some cases they are treated as capital gains however there are provisions in the tax act which provide the ability to tax gains on disposal of shares.

According to Inland Revenue: Share sales are personal property and usually non-taxable, except if the seller: · Originally bought the shares for resale instead of longterm investment · Deals in shares In these two situations, any profit from the share sale will be taxable – the seller will need to include it as income in their tax return.

There is also a third category where a person entered into an undertaking or scheme to make profits with the shares purchased (unlikely to be applicable to most of you).

Under the first category stated by IRD, if the shares are purchased with a pure intent to resell to reap the profits then the gains become taxable.

As an example, if a New Zealand company sets up to produce and market the Covid-19 vaccine as well as related PPE products then there will be a reasonable expectation of the value of shares to rise in the initial phase due to the demand these products have.

Assuming the intention of an investor at the time of purchase is to make a quick gain, even if the investor hold the shares for five years and then sell them, he would still be taxable on the gains.

Looking at another investor who has been mostly buying and holding shares and acquired the shares in the company as above, then sells the shares in say year three, he won’t be subject to tax on gain as the intention at the time of purchase for this shareholder was to buy and hold.

If IRD decides to review your transactions, they would take into account the volume of shares being bought and sold as well as the level of profits being made and not to forget the speed of turnover! It would be very easy to gather information from app-based platform providers and in hindsight it becomes easy for IRD to consider a taxpayer to be dealing in shares by looking at the past transactions and the established trading pattern.

A person who is considered to be dealing in shares is always subject to tax on gains and conversely able to get a deduction for any loss. It is important to note that the shares on hand are to be valued at cost at year end to determine the profit or loss made from trading.

We hope this opens your eyes towards the potential for IRD to want a share in your disposal gains, which historically most have considered to have no tax exposure. The tax rules are complex and forever changing.

Please contact your usual JACAL contact or one of the partners for further information and help. (LOGAN GRANGER)  PN Disclaimer – While all care has been taken, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the content of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, 202 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 6701, www.jacal.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APARTMENT LIVING

HELENE RAVLICH:

TOP OF THE BLOCKS:

APARTMENT AND TOWNHOUSE LIVING ON THE CITY FRINGE A popular style of living around the world for many years now, apartments and townhouses offer lifestyle plus in some of the city’s most in-demand locations.

Location is the key when it comes to apartment and townhouse living, with many inner central residents looking to downsize and find joy in a more low maintenance space after years in a villa, but without leaving their much-loved neighbourhood.

Blair Haddow of Bayley’s Real Estate, Ponsonby, has been in the top five per cent of Bayley’s agents for more than a decade and is exclusively handling the 25 Tirotai offering.

He says that he is seeing a lot of people “coming out of houses in Westmere who want to stay in the area but get away from the ongoing maintenance that comes with a bigger home”. He adds that predominantly older houses come with considerable upkeep and are often on large parcels of land whereas contemporary townhouses offer the feel of a home, but without the constant admin.

That is certainly the case with several of the individuals enquiring about a move to boutique waterfront development, 25 Tirotai. Just 50 metres from the water's edge in Westmere, 25 Tirotai offers potential buyers a range of exclusive options in a fantastic inner central spot, with eight bespoke homes coming together to create a stylish and secure micro-community.

“Townhouses and apartments also offer such great lock up and leave opportunities,” says the top salesperson, “especially for people who have beach houses that they are wanting to spend more time in. It’s also a great option for those looking to travel extensively again.” continued P62

And despite many New Zealanders still being wedded to the idea of securing their own patch of land, more and more are choosing to opt for apartment or townhouse life for a myriad of reasons.

Location, location, location

The top floor of The Feynman, Ockham’s latest, includes two residents’ lounges, a pool and a deck the size of a small aircraft carrier.

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APARTMENT LIVING

The Point 317/121 Customs Street West

continued from P60 Body corporates as community

Helen O’Sullivan is the CEO of Crockers Property Group and a long time apartment dweller. An expert when it comes to body corporates, she says that Crockers refer to their division that specialises in that area as Body Corporate & Community Living Management. “The point we make to people from the get-go is that you’re joining a community, and that is the lovely thing about it. However, being part of a community brings with it reciprocal rights and obligations. Those include paying bills on time, participating in the community and abiding by the rules for everyone’s comfort. In return, you get all the benefits of community like neighbours bringing your parcels up from downstairs or dropping off food and a bottle of wine at your door when you’ve been forced to self-isolate due to Covid," she says.

She says that before committing to buying an apartment or townhouse it’s essential that your lawyer takes a fine tooth comb to all documents, and that includes your body corporate agreement. She says that if your body corporate levies seem low and there isn’t a fund for things like watering the gardens in summertime or building washes, “then none of those things will happen, so speak up and ask what is included in the budget before you move in”. Higher levies usually come with blocks with more amenities too, such as pools and gyms, “as all of that stuff needs to be maintained and thus paid for. It just makes sense.”

To find out more about body corporates, Helen says a great resource can be found on the Ockham website where there is a webinar starring herself in conversation with Ockham Sales Team Leader, Joss Lewis. She says that the website www.unittitles.govt.nz also has some great information to run through before you take the plunge.

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CEO Crockers Property Group, Helen O'Sullivan Goodbye maintenance – and that includes the garden

Helen O’Sullivan confesses to being, “not much of a gardener even on a good day”, and loves that apartment living means that her body corporate takes care of the grounds around her home as well as other maintenance. “You don’t have to organise for the building to be washed or for the rubbish bins to be changed, it just magically happens,” she says, “and that goes for the whole complex. It means that you don’t have to deal with a situation where the person in number three can’t be bothered clipping their hedge, for example, and numbers two and four are very house proud.”

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APARTMENT LIVING Ockham’s zen utopia in the clouds: Apartment 603 at The Feynman includes a wrap-around 63m2 balcony.

Helen says that she is currently living in her second apartment and has since purchased a third, “and I can hand on heart say I’ll never go back to standalone house living”.

days. “That included paint, flooring, kitchen cabinetry and more. It’s very easy to modernise and refresh an apartment or townhouse significantly when you know how.”

Safety and security

Like Helen, Grant says after making the move to a townhouse, he can’t see himself taking on the considerable responsibilities that come with standalone house ownership. “I’m in a position where so much is taken care of, and in such a fantastic community close to my favourite suburbs and local eateries.

I love it.” (HELENE RAVLICH)

Director of Bluzone Group, Grant Sanderson, has a long history in residential property renovations after moving into the apartment market in 2009 as an investor. He soon realised that a lot of apartments weren’t that well-presented, and wanting his own investments to stand out from the rest, proceeded to put in the work. Ever since then, he has been buying and renovating apartments and townhouses for the absent investor, owner occupiers and refurbishing them with the help of a network of skilled tradespeople.

He himself lives in a townhouse complex in Eden Terrace, “which I absolutely love for so many reasons”. Top of mind is the lock and leave nature of apartment and townhouse living, “whereby I can just lock the door behind me and drive away for the weekend knowing my home is safe and secure.

My complex also has a lock up garage, so I can wash my cars outside and then lock them up safely while keeping everything meticulously clean and tidy”.

Grant is also passionate about the community he lives in, and the social environment that comes with living in a townhouse complex which includes the added bonus of safety and security.

“I’m on the committees as well as I like to be an active member of the community,” he adds, “which I highly recommend if you want to have real input into your investment.”

When he moved into his current townhouse he set to work renovating the interior completely – which took all of eight

Grant Sanderson, Director of Bluzone Group

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APARTMENT LIVING

REIMAGINING URBAN COMMUNITIES: A BRIEF HISTORY OF OCKHAM about the legacy of the building. It’s extremely gratifying to build a great place that people are proud to live in, which won’t cost a lot to maintain.”

Marutūāhu Iwi chair, Paul Majurey, was equally satisfied.

He describes the whanaungatanga relationship between Marutūāhu and Ockham as “a very special partnership that comes out of people sharing world views and aspirations — a long-term outlook.

“An emphasis on quality communities and homes and not on money — and also some very long-term aspirations around the built environment and leaving a legacy for Tāmaki Makaurau.”

“TOO MANY LARGE-SCALE PROJECTS ARE JUST FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS THAT END UP MAKING A BUNCH OF MONEY AND NO ONE CARES ABOUT THE LEGACY OF THE BUILDING. IT’S EXTREMELY GRATIFYING TO BUILD A GREAT PLACE THAT PEOPLE ARE PROUD TO LIVE IN.” — OCKHAM’S MARK TODD

Kōkihi in Waterview— Ockham’s lucky 13th development — was opened in June last year.

With seven more developments under construction, Ockham’s co-founder and captain, Mark Todd, reflects on the company’s first decade-and-a-bit.

The day had dawned with a sort of Scott Base vibe. Breath exhaled in slow, floating clouds, hands were kept firmly in pocket.

The official Kōkihi opening ceremony starring Housing Minister Megan Woods had been slated to take place alongside the building’s swimming pool before an untimely winter tempest forced guests underground to the Building B carpark. Downstairs to the bunker!

Behold, the magnificence of Ockham’s basement architecture!

Not that anyone noticed or seemed to mind. As Minister Woods cut the ribbon, she hailed Kōkihi as “exemplary… a beautiful housing development, delivered ahead of schedule… constructing 95 high-quality apartments on land where seven homes once stood.

“And that is a number I think we need to stop and consider.

The fact that we have taken seven homes and created 95 new places where dreams can be fulfilled, and children can grow up, and people can make their lives.”

A long-term outlook For Ockham’s Mark Todd, the completion of the company’s second project with Marutūāhu Iwi was poignant.

“I felt a huge sense of pride at what we had achieved. It’s three years’ work getting a project like Kōkihi across the finish line and it’s a great asset for Auckland. It sets a new standard in many ways.

“Too many large-scale projects are just financial instruments that end up making a bunch of money and no one cares

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Building a legacy Todd and Ockham co-founder Benjamin Preston, who started Ockham during the global financial crisis in 2008, always intended to leave a legacy — by creating attractive, long-lasting, liveable buildings, and by starting Ockham Collective, which offers creative people free use of beautiful spaces in which to teach, run workshops, perform, think and write.

The pair’s first project was the original Ockham building opposite Eden Park. “Auckland’s landscape is world-class, but the apartment sector was decidedly average before 2008,” Todd says. “We went into this with an ambition to build things better, to set a new standard and to be copied.”

The Ockham Building did exactly that. It was included in Auckland City’s design manual as an exemplar to be imitated, as was Ockham’s fourth apartment building, The Isaac. Centred around a private lane, the three buildings of The Isaac each incorporated a large, fully-landscaped rooftop lounge — luxurious community spaces which became one of Ockham’s signature moves.

Many of Ockham’s other projects have attracted attention — Daisy, which remains New Zealand’s only apartment building to achieve a 10 Homestar rating, hit headlines because it didn’t include carparks (and Mike Hosking didn’t like its name). Station R, a sleek development designed to pick up on the aesthetic of the adjacent train tracks on Fenton Street in Mt Eden, was shortlisted in the 2018 Home Awards. With its prominent curves and eye-catching dark-glazed bricks, Modal House in Mt Albert picked up an honourable mention in the 2021 Here magazine awards.

“I’m proud of all of our buildings,” Todd says. “We’ve built a company of substance. It was never a goal of mine, it just happened because we always acted with intent. It's a bit like multi-variable calculus — to get the right solution you can have win-win-win deals. You have great housing, make money, house the people, and help make Auckland better.

You can change the sector.”

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APARTMENT LIVING

THE INNER BEAUTY OF THE GREENHOUSE Ockham Residential’s Lead Architect Tania Wong has spent thousands of hours poring over every detail of The Greenhouse, ensuring the building will look just as glorious on the inside.

It’s named for the 150,000 iridescent, green-glazed bricks that will adorn its walls.

Great care — and a level of mild obsessiveness — was taken to find the perfect brick for The Greenhouse, Ockham’s flagship project in Ponsonby. In all, the quest would take four years and take a circuitous path through New Zealand, Australia and Europe. But when Tania saw the breathtaking Sant’Anselmo bricks from Venuto, Italy, she knew the long search was over.

“Sant’Anselmo’s kilns have been firing bricks for five generations and their bricks really stood out,” she says.

“They’re beautiful — luminous, elegant and an incredible deep, rich colour. They certainly will make The Greenhouse a landmark building.”

Bringing Tāmaki Makaurau inside Those iconic bricks were not the only aspect of the building that Tania lavished her attention on. “When we were thinking about The Greenhouse, we wanted to think about an Aotearoa aesthetic,” she says. “All the materials we’ve chosen are deeply inspired by nature — the birds, the bush and the ocean. We wanted to bring that feeling inside the building too.”

Tania and her team have stuck to colours that reflect Tāmaki Makaurau — the black sand of West Coast beaches and the deep greens of the Waitākere ranges, with glimmers of the sparkling sea that surrounds the city.

“As soon as you step into the lobby, your feet land on dark slate floor tiles cut and laid in a chevron pattern. The colour is reminiscent of Karekare sand and the chevron pattern mirrors the feather pattern I’ve used on the glazing on the ground floor of the commercial spaces and at the top of the

building. Ahead of you will be the lift doors. We’ve opted for a brass finish that complements the green-glazed bricks,” Tania explains.

Slate and light The Karekare vibe continues into the apartments themselves.

“We’ve tied in the brass and slate from the lobby into the kitchens and bathrooms of the apartments,” Tania continues.

“The bathroom floors and walls have slate tiles, green tiles in the showers accompanied with sleek Buddy tapware in aged brass.

“The kitchen benches are all a gleaming dark slate, then there’s the walnut veneer cabinetry, which adds a real richness, and beautiful engineered European oak for the floors; also cut and laid in a chevron pattern. The colours work wonderfully together, but it’s a very simple palette. It’s not overwhelming, so people can still personalise their apartments with their own finishing touches.”

Tania’s almost as proud of the lights in The Greenhouse as she is of the bricks. “We found these beautiful handmade Monmouth eel-green pendant lights, which will hang over the slate island benches in the kitchen. They look incredible.

Then there’s an exquisite Tom Dixon brass light, which will take centre stage in the lobby and shine light on the brass mesh in the ceiling.”

It has been hard work, she says, and there have been a few frustrations along the way. But Tania has no regrets about keeping a very close eye on every fixture that’ll beautify the building’s interior.

“I’m so proud of The Greenhouse. We’ve really put our hearts and souls into this building, it’s a true once-in-a-lifetime project. It’s going to be a beautiful place to live.”

“I’M SO PROUD OF THE GREENHOUSE. WE’VE REALLY PUT OUR HEARTS AND SOULS INTO THIS BUILDING… IT’S GOING TO BE A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO LIVE.” — OCKHAM’S TANIA WONG

© Photo by Adrian Malloch

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APARTMENT LIVING

THE ART OF DOWNSIZING WITH OCKHAM'S JOSS LEWIS In 2030, around a fifth of us will be aged 65+ compared to a tick over 15% now. And with a Victoria University report finding that 23% of New Zealanders live in houses far larger than they need, more of us are considering ‘downsizing’ to an apartment that fits just right.

© Photo by Adrian Malloch

Ockham Residential’s Joss Lewis has been selling apartments for a decade, guiding many a buyer through a major lifestyle shift. Here the Downsizing Doyenne shares a few observations she’s collected along the way.

Now’s the time to think about where you’ll want to be a few years down the track.

“If you still have teens living in the family home, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s next,” Joss says. “It can feel a bit daunting or even selfish to anticipate what you want for yourself.”

Buying off the plans — as Ockham offers — is a good chance to go at your own pace with a new home already sorted.

“Selling and purchasing at the same time can be stressful. The good thing with buying off the plans is that, once you pay your 10% deposit, you've got a year or two to get your house ready for sale and market it without the time crunch.”

Consider trying before buying.

“Trialling apartment living is a great idea if you’re unsure about shifting to a smaller home,” Joss suggests. “A couple who have just bought with us had rented a Grey Lynn apartment after selling their home in Remuera. They wanted to try it out first — and found they loved it. They do lots of urban walks where they stop for coffee and just adore their local neighbourhood.”

Apartments have the perks of community living.

“An apartment building is an ideal spot for those wanting a closer sense of community while still retaining their privacy,” Joss says. “At Ockham’s Isaac Building for example, there’s a monthly meet-up in the residents’ lounge with wine and food.

It’s not compulsory to attend, of course, but a lot of people say it’s more neighbourly and social than when they lived on a residential street.”

But they’re not a retirement village.

“Oh, no one I’ve sold to is near that point!” Joss exclaims. “But an apartment is a great compromise if you want to reduce your home maintenance and have everything on one level in a building with a lift. It’s about future-proofing,” she adds.

Giving yourself options.

The key is to the city, not just your unit.

“If you’ve been living out in the suburbs, a move to a more urban and connected area can be a revelation,” Joss says.

“One buyer recently told me: ‘It’s a first-world problem… but I just want to socialise without having to worry about driving or getting in a taxi or Uber.’” If your spiritual home is a table at SPQR or Madame George, an apartment at The Greenhouse or The Feynman is a skip home in minutes.

Downsizing can be streamlining.

“There’s this idea an apartment means you get ‘less’,” Joss says. “But a lot of buyers I’ve spoken to find the opposite.

Ockham’s buildings often come with a lot of amenities — a pool, outdoor areas — all covered off as part of the Body Corporate. So stuff’s there for when you want it, and not your worry when you don’t.”

It’s also unexpectedly liberating.

“Probably the number one qualm I hear from my clients before they move is whether an apartment will feel too confined,” Joss says. “And the number one piece of feedback I get from residents after move-in is that the apartment’s given them all this freedom!

Apartments become a kind of ‘base’, she explains, a place to pause between travel, adventures or family gatherings at the bach. “You finally have that freedom to go off on a whim!”

Joss says. “Your home shouldn’t hold you back.”

Joss Lewis has a wealth of experience in finding the right apartment for buyers at any age or stage. To find out more give her a buzz on 021 245 5155 or email joss@ockham.co.nz.

Oh, and for honest, everyday – exemplary! – Ockham propaganda, go to www.ockham.co.nz.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APARTMENT LIVING

FEELING FEYNMAN Ockham’s 21st development sees the Auckland ‘urban re-imaginers’ return to Grey Lynn.

The Feynman’s architectural designer, Hannah Chiaroni-Clarke, explains what inspired her.

“The aim wasn’t to create a landmark building,” says Hannah, “but rather a building that instantly feels at home on Great North Road, like it’s always been there. It’s not every day you get to design an entire block: I saw this as an opportunity to reinstate the original grain and scale of the street.”

What she came up with will bring a certain cadence to the streetscape. A single building wrapped in a series of seven shoulder-to-shoulder brick facades, the overall look of The Feynman is evocative of an old town high street that’s evolved over time. “I looked to High Streets in London, in Prague, to the iconic canal houses of Amsterdam, say, or, closer to home, the clever upgrade of Vinegar Lane,” Hannah says.

On the building’s Elgin Street end, the heritage ambience of the area has been acknowledged with traditional red brick cladding and arched windows, while the Harcourt Street side features a curved, modern look, rendered in a black gloss and cream brick. “One edge of the building speaks to the future, the other nods to the past,” Hannah says.

© Photo by Adrian Malloch

“One edge of The Feynman speaks to the future, the other nods to the past…”

- Hannah Chiaroni-Clarke

Bookended between the two are five more brickwork frontages in a range of tones, a pastiche that winks at other Ockham projects around Auckland — a shimmery black like Modal in Mt Albert, a verdant green that hints toward The Greenhouse in Ponsonby. When taken as whole, The Feynman’s multiplicities coalesce into one readable form.

Or, as Richard Feynman himself put it: “Every once in a while, we have these integrations when everything’s pulled together into a unification, in which it turns out to be simpler than it looked before.”

RICHARD FEYNMAN: PHYSICIST, TEACHER, STUDENT Nobel prize-winning theoretical physicist Richard Feynman dedicated his life to understanding the abstruse and fearfully complicated and rendering it intelligible. Yet he retained an enchanting intellectual humility: “I’m not absolutely sure of anything,” he once remarked, “and there are many things I don’t know anything about.”

The Isaac, named after Sir Isaac Newton, on Surrey Crescent.

Feynman’s work was immersed in the profundity of physics: among his many labours he grappled with quantum electrodynamics, tangoed with the superfluidity of supercooled liquid helium, and wrangled a path integral formulation of quantum mechanics. While we respect all that (and understand...ah, some of it), Feynman’s a thinker we revere not only for his contributions to his field, but also for his ability to reduce the extremely complicated to the bearably simple.

So why have we chosen to name our latest building after Mr Feynman? Well, at Ockham we name our developments after critical thinkers and values we hold dear. Appropriately, The Feynman will be built on Great North Road, just up from The Turing, so-called for Alan Turing, and a skip away from

FEYNMAN, MORE THAN MOST GREAT THINKERS, ACCEPTED UNCERTAINTY AND DOUBT AS THE NECESSARY ENGINES FOR LEARNING. HE WOULD BEGIN EACH NEW NOTEBOOK BY INSCRIBING ON THE FIRST PAGE ‘THINGS I DON’T KNOW ABOUT’…

For Feynman, most things could be dissected into parts, contemplated, and explained to another person. Anything he laid his eyes could become an instance of anything else. “It is true that if we look at a glass of wine closely enough, we see the entire universe,” he wrote. “There are the things of physics: the twisting liquid which evaporates depending on the wind and weather, the reflection in the glass; and our imagination adds atoms. The glass is a distillation of the earth’s rocks, and in its composition, we see the secrets of the universe’s age, and the evolution of stars.”

We quite agree. Most complex things are simpler (and often more elegant) when broken into smaller pieces, like, say, an inner-city block apartment development, portioned into a succession of architectural components. But more than that, there’s also an aesthetic, a poetry, in the puzzling-out itself.

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APARTMENT LIVING Baxter Gemma Chair

Lalique Mossi Vase

Ocre Moonlight Murmation

CAVIT+CO ENTERS AN EXCITING NEW ERA ‘Creating timeless interiors’ has been a mantra of Debbie Cavits for over thirty years.

Since 1991, Cavit+Co has been the home of Debbie’s discerning eye, and a renowned roster of brands that capture a now-signature global elegance. “Over the years our ethos has remained unchanged - fabulous design with unparalleled craftsmanship for pieces our clients will love for a lifetime,” says Debbie.

In the coming months, Cavit+Co will move to a byappointment consultative procurement service, continuing to source from their superb range of brands. “As we evolve with these ever-changing times, procurement by appointment will lead Cavit+Co into an exciting new era,” says Debbie.

Cavit+Co, with this consultative approach, will continue to be the home of international brands such as Baxter, Frette, Lalique, Baker, McGuire, Ralph Lauren Home amongst many others. The long-standing and close relationships

Cavit+Co enjoys with these brands make for an intimate knowledge of their selection, allowing for procurement with unparalleled expertise. It is this knowledge that also helps to shape the Cavit+Co aesthetic - a balance of the classic and contemporary that transcends trends and brings something unique to each space. “I’m incredibly proud of the relationship we have with our suppliers. Our superb selection of brands allows our clients to capture their particular vision with an individually tailored solution that is both unique and expresses a dedication to matchless quality,” says Debbie.

“I look forward to continuing to work with our clients and suppliers as we take Cavit+Co into a new era.”

Cavit+Co's consultative procurement service is available via the Cavit+Co website, or contact Debbie Cavit directly on debbie@cavitco.com www.cavitco.com

CLEARANCE SALE Enjoy up to 60% oo

463 Parnell Road | Open 10-4 Monday to Saturday | www.cavitco.com 68 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APARTMENT LIVING

THE LITTLE LANDSCAPING BUSINESS THAT LOVES SMALL SPACES Martin Steel-Brown sowed the seeds of City Botanics after his challenges as a city dweller with a tiny garden.

Now he's helping others create thoughtful green spaces in tight places. “Gardens can heal and provide solace, so I focus on how to reach every client’s version of this no matter the size or space,” Martin explains.

While popping a few pots and plants on a balcony might seem simple, in reality it can be quite a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping our beloved plant babies alive.

“Creating privacy is always a priority for apartment clients,” said Martin. “However, more often overlooked is the space’s exposure. Balconies are notorious for extremes; gusty winds and too much or too little sun can wreak havoc on plants.”

Martin explains that knowing which plants work in these situations is critical to their longevity. Added to this are the logistical challenges. Sourcing the pots, plants, and soil and carting them up to the top floor can be discouraging, not to mention costly. Martin points out that the money you save by installing your own garden gets lost over time when you need to make frequent trips to the garden centre to replace dead plants. “Ultimately, we want to take the guesswork and heavy lifting out of garden design so our clients can just sit back, relax and enjoy their space.”

If you’re thinking about transforming your small outdoor space, contact Martin for a free consultation on 027 215 7884; www.citybotanics.co.nz

Small Spaces. Big Gardens.

We design and create thoughtful, liveable green spaces for urban dwellers.

BALCONIES | COURTYARDS | PATIOS YARDS | OFFICES

www.citybotanics.co.nz

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APARTMENT LIVING

Harlequin Mirador Mehari reflects terracotta artisan styles

ESCAPISM IN OUR HOME DÉCOR FEEDS OUR DESIRE FOR FREEDOM AND TO TRAVEL AGAIN Lahood® is trending the desires and dreams of holiday destinations and faraway places.

The Escapism trend is all about boosting our moods and a yearning for freedom of movement. At Lahood we have a showroom that reflects this through our wide range of international brands and fabric collections.

With limited connectivity to our friends and family in recent times, our relationship with our homes takes a more prominent role than ever before. The objects around us become the essence of our history, our culture and our heritage. Artisan craftsmanship is celebrated, and revered, as conscious consumers steer away from mass produced items in search of bespoke, speciality pieces for our homes.

Colour enriches our space and boosts our mood. Warm, earthy palettes sit beautifully alongside minimalist and eclectic interiors.

Mokum, Majorelle is inspired by Catherine Martin’s recent foray into tropical scenes whilst taking design influences from Orientalism, with Asian and middle eastern influences. Match these curtain and soft furnishing fabric styles with exotic personal objects and furnishings in your living spaces.

Natural materials and fabrics infused with terracotta and ceramic styles, alive with colour and brimming with bold patterns and texture excite as we look forward to reunions and future adventures.

The Mirador Collection from Harlequin reflects the artisan trend. Mehari is inspired by the kilim rugs found in Ibizan homes; the embroidery of this truly beautiful cotton/linen fabric offers a bold geometric pattern in three colourways.

Mokum recently investigated Ikigai, the Japanese philosophy centred on finding joy in life by looking outwards to the flora and fauna surrounding us, be that literally or through escapism to another time and place. Create a Zen like calming space with these beautiful curtain designs.

From inspiration to installation, Lahood® Window Furnishings have it all. We can help inspire you to make your home a beautiful place, reflective of your people, your places and your memories.

Visit the stunning Lahood showroom at 104 Mt Eden Road, or phone 0800 LAHOOD to book an in-home design consultation. www.lahood.co.nz

70 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APARTMENT LIVING

@ FRENCH COUNTRY COLLECTIONS

Augusta Chandelier Was $1,499.00 Now $1,050.00 Giraffe Bowl Was $69.50 Now $35.00 Santiago Bar Console Was $1,050.00 Now $735.00

Glass Bowl Was $139.00 now $69.50 Madalena 2 Seater Chair Was $1,490.00 Now $1,043.00

Bauble Blush Cotton Throw Was $129.00 Now $90.30

E N D OF S EA S ON

SALE

30-50% OFF selected lines PONSONBY | NEWMARKET | ONLINE ON NOW | ENDS 18TH APRIL

PONSONBY 6 Jervois Road | NEWMARKET 34 Morrow Street WWW.FRENCHCOUNTRY.CO.NZ

PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

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APARTMENT LIVING

THE DREAM TEAM No other kitchen company can hold a candle to the team at Kitchens By Design regarding awards won, longevity in the business, and sheer value for money.

We all love our kitchens, and so we should. Your kitchen is the single-most-important room in the home – bar none.

Not only does it help to feed us daily, but it also acts as the social centre for the family and the focal point of activity when entertaining. It really deserves its title as the ‘hub of the home’.

It’s no surprise then that when it comes to investing in a new one, we spend a crazy amount of time researching on our devices, long evenings sitting on the sofa buried in brochures and magazines, and countless lost weekends driving to every conceivable shop and showroom, poring over everything from taps to tiles, and sinks to splashbacks. Much of this time and effort could be saved by engaging the services of a qualified kitchen designer.

During its 30-plus years in the business, Takapuna-based Kitchens By Design has designed and delivered over 10,000 kitchens and won over 70 nationally recognised awards. Owner Richard Cripps, a cabinetmaker by trade and a well-respected member of the design fraternity, says that everything is just a collection of stuff without good design. And he’s right.

“Your new kitchen is going to outlive any trends that are currently floating around, so you need to think carefully about

that. Don’t get too caught up in what’s happening right now,” he says. “Focus on the design. Design is your single most important consideration. Get the design right, and everything else will usually fall into place.”

Richard is incredibly proud of his team and is keen to point out that all four of his designers are DNKBA – qualified Designers of the National Kitchen & Bathroom Association. This is the highest qualification in the country, and they all regularly attend industry events to keep up to date with the latest in materials, appliances, style and ideas.

Kitchens By Design offers a comprehensive, concept-tocompletion process that ensures every client is involved and informed at every stage of the design-and-build process. Importantly, especially during these times of supply chain issues and skills shortages, the company has a wellestablished group of preferred trades and craftspeople, which guarantees timelines and quality.

“We value every one of the hundreds of satisfied clients that have come through our doors over the past thirty years,” says Richard. “And the fact that many of those clients are now coming back into our showrooms and asking us to help design their next kitchens is testament to the quality of our designers and services we offer at Kitchens By Design.”

If you’re looking for a new kitchen, pop into Kitchens By Design’s showroom, located at 3 Byron Avenue in Takapuna, or give one of its designers a call on T: 09 379 3084. For inspiration, take a look at some fabulous projects at www.kitchensbydesign.co.nz

72 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Visit our showroom today.

Takapuna 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (09) 379 3084

Thoughtful design paired with exquisite materials. kitchensbydesign.co.nz

APARTMENT LIVING

@ MELUKA

Finish your living room, bedroom or home office with a statement occasional chair or side table from Meluka, shop our wide range of occasional chairs, side tables and homewares online now at www.meluka.co.nz

BY

DANSKE

MØBLER

Furniture. Simply.

15% OF F B O O K S H E LV E S SHOP ONLINE OR IN STORE

meluka.co.nz

74 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APARTMENT LIVING

@ Dawson & Co. Top Classic curvy bar in moonstone marble by Timothy Oulton POA $8,379 Middle Rex medium round dining table with optical

prism glass by Timothy Oulton from RRP $30,989, Baqtasi 2 seater sofa in yeti beige sheepskin by Timothy Oulton from RRP $13,169, Bottom Shabby bed in savage leather by

Timothy Oulton from RRP $11,479

DAWSON & CO., Northshore Showroom, 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale T: 09 476 1121, Parnell Showroom, 115 The Strand, Parnell; info@dawsonandco.nz www.dawsonandco.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

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APARTMENT LIVING

BLAIR HADDOW:

THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

Supply chain challenges and labour shortages changing home buyers’ dynamics in Ponsonby real estate.

Auckland’s inner-west residential property market is seeing the effects of the ‘perfect storm’ in the residential construction sector… international and domestic product supply chain disruptions, labour shortages, and incredibly high numbers of building consents requiring work to be undertaken, according to a senior figure in the real estate sector.

Bayleys Ponsonby salesperson Blair Haddow said more and more potential buyers coming through his open homes were indicating they were now looking for ‘turnkey’ homes - with all renovations and modernisation done – rather than for ‘doer-uppers’ requiring building and construction work to be undertaken.

“Traditionally in Ponsonby, Herne Bay, Grey Lynn, and Westmere, there has always been a portion of the market looking for homes that they can add value to by improving the living spaces or adding more rooms for example,” Blair Haddow said.

“However, concerns over supply chain issues encompassing accessibility to and deliver of building materials and supplies, along with the rising costs of those building materials and supplies, are being compounded by a shortage of residential tradies ranging from hammer-hands, builders, and swimming pool landscapers, through to concrete layers, qualified electricians, plumbers, and roofers.

“Tradespeople and building suppliers have publicly stated they are struggling to get their hands on such basic materials as exterior and interior cladding, timber, GIB plasterboard, roofing iron, and aluminium window framing. Those ongoing delays for a wide range of products are anecdotally stretching the renovation time for an average house from five months to 12 months.

“That’s before we even talk about building and tradie firms having to stand down staff who have to self-isolate at home if they are defined as being a close contact of anyone with Covid-19 – a phenomenon which is now taking a sizeable chunk out of our working population who need to be ‘on-site’ to complete their employment.”

Compounding the new build dilemma, prices for building a new dwelling increased by 16 percent in the December

76 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

quarter, compared with same period in 2020, with forecasts from the building sector of a further 15 percent hike in the price of house construction products in the coming year.

“It all adds up to buyers now wanting homes where all the ‘work’ has already been done, so that the new owners don’t have to worry about any of those building issues,” said Blair Haddow.

ASB's Quarterly Economic Forecast report out in February confirmed what Bayleys Ponsonby was hearing, that housing construction levels were not only being hampered by material supply chain issues, but also by labour shortages – short term through the disruption of Omicron, and medium to long-term by border immigration restrictions.

In line with this trend, Blair Haddow has just listed up two beautiful ‘ready to move in’ homes for auction in April.

First up is a magnificent contemporary dual level fourbedroom/three-bathroom/three-living space home at 3A Hope Street in Westmere. With an in-ground heated swimming pool and double car garaging big enough to contain a home gym, the north-facing home looks like something straight out of the pages of the latest interior design magazines.

Clad in Hinuera stone and exuding luxurious comfort, this sophisticated home has inner harbour water views and was built to the owners’ high design specifications to provide classy living through its multiple open-plan entertaining areas. The master bedroom in its own wing in the upper level overlooking the pool has its own balcony as well as a walk-in wardrobe and separate substantial ensuite bathroom.

Next on Blair Haddow’s books is a three-bedroom/twobathroom/two-living space residence at 17 Harcourt Street in Grey Lynn, which has been superbly modernised and features a living pavilion beside the in-ground swimming pool in the back yard.

“With both of these beautiful dwellings, the current owners have already done all the hard work over the years remodelling and improving both inside and out to deliver simply beautiful homes ready to live in now,” said Blair. www.facebook.com/BlairHaddowResidential

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

104 Mt. Eden Road Mt. Eden, Auckland Phone: 09 638 8463 www.lahood.co.nz

New Zealand’s “most trusted” window furnishing company.

FREE CURTAIN MAKING

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CURTAINS • BLINDS • INTERIOR DESIGN • AWNINGS • ROLLER SHADES • UPHOLSTERY *Special conditions apply - lahood.co.nz/promotions. Offer finishes 30/04/2022.

ARTS + CULTURE

IGNITING CREATIVITY THROUGH DRAMA CLASSES Despite the challenges that Covid-19 continued to present in term 1, Tim Bray Theatre Company’s Youth Theatre classes have continued with fun and creativity for their students.

These classes continue to engage the students’ creativity, selfconfidence and self-expression through drama techniques.

The brand new Extraordinarily Creative drama classes at Te Oro in Glen Innes for autistic and neurodivergent children and teens have been working their “magic” (according to a dad!) with the new students. Extraordinarily Creative continues to be popular on the North Shore at Meadowood Community House. Spaces are available in Term 2 at both venues.

For more information: TIM BRAY THEATRE COMPANY; T: 09 486-2261; www.timbray.org.nz/youth-theatre E: youth.theatre@timbray.org.nz

Tim Bray Youth Theatre will run taster April holiday programmes for autistic and neurodivergent students interested in trialling the Extraordinarily Creative drama classes.

TIM BRAY

“In six months they have taught our anxious and reclusive boy that he has a voice worth hearing,” - Karen A., parent.

TBYT has announced a new venue for their ever-popular Hit the Stage! 5-day holiday programme at North Shore’s Rose Centre Theatre in Belmont, 19 - 23 April.

Tim Bray Youth Theatre’s Term 2 weekly drama classes for 5-19yrs begin the week of 2 May at TAPAC and enrolments are open now. Classes are also offered on the North Shore.

YOUTH THEATRE Western Springs, Takapuna, Browns Bay 5–19 years Our tutors fire young imaginations and ignite the creative minds of tomorrow.

Weekly

DRAMA

Glen Innes and North Shore 5–16yrs For autistic and neurodivergent youth to find their own voice and place

www.timbray.org.nz 09-486-2261

The Covert Theatre in Mackelvie Street, Ponsonby is NZ’s home of improvised comedy.

With workshops and shows every night of the week there is something for everyone.

Be sure to check out www.coverttheatre.com

You can support all the good giggle’s by donation right here, www.coverttheatre.com/how-to-help Registered charity CC53421

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

I’M ALL ABOUT AUCTIONS "When selling, auctions are still the way to go," says local agent Keri Ropati. “With an auction it is all about creating competition in a market place which is currently busy with stock.

As the property market responds to changing economic conditions the local Westmere market is holding strong in its value - the trick to sale success for your property is your sale method, marketing and sales person/team.

Property Guru, John Bowering/Head Auctioneer for Ray White confirms “the average days on market via an auction are significantly lower than any other form of sale method in the marketplace”. Auctions are made to call out all the unconditional offers, and in a market that is steadying, unconditional offers win over conditional offers every time.

For Keri this means she is able to give property owners a clear time frame and marketing strategy that will ensure their property has the best chance of attracting buyers who are ready to purchase. Auctions give the vendors a straight clean sale; no waiting on banks or purchasers needing to sell.

“If you’re thinking of selling, give me a call,” says Keri. “We can grab a coffee and chat property."

KERI ROPATI, M: 021 530 807; E: keri.ropati@raywhite.com www.vongroup.co.nz Licensee Salesperson | Ray White, Von Group Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

KERI ROPATI

Connecting people & property Keri Ropati 021 530 807 keri.ropati@raywhite.com vongroup.co.nz

FB.com/keriRopati.RealEstate @keriropati.realestate

VON GROUP LIMITED LICENSED (REAA 2008)

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ARTS + CULTURE

Patricia Piccinini ‘Scarlet Bloom’, 2019 © The artist

SENSATION_22 AT SCOTT LAWRIE Saturday 9 to 30 April, 2022.

Powerful work from world-class artist Patricia Piccinini, as well as a mix of younger and senior artists from New Zealand and Australia.

After a couple of years of being adopted by Ponsonby locals, we’re delighted to let you know our new space in Mount Eden has officially opened – and it’s less than a 10 minute drive away from the old space in Murdoch Road.

The new gallery is at The Steelworks in Coles Avenue (off Valley Road) and is in a purpose-designed space created by the team at Axiom Projects and Paul Clarke, architect of Studio2 Architects.

Our second show in the new gallery is a sensational show of new work from our represented artists – and a few surprise guests!

Entitled Sensation_22, you’ll see powerful work from worldclass artists such as Patricia Piccinini as well as a mix of younger and senior artists from New Zealand and Australia, including a major work by late modernist abstract painter Roy Good who we are thrilled to represent.

Showcasing work across the three new gallery spaces and a permanent digital wall, it’s a show that we promise you’ll find something to love or hate, but we promise nothing in between! (SCOTT LAWRIE, DIRECTOR) OPENING DAY 9 APRIL – 11am to 5pm. All welcome!

Roy Good, ‘Bisecting Planes – Blue/Grey’, 2015 © The artist

SCOTT LAWRIE, Shed 10, The Steelworks, 13 Coles Avenue (off Valley Road) Mount Eden. www.scottlawrie.com

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE

SIÂN QUENNELL TORRINGTON AT OREX PONSONBY 9 April – 7 May Siân Quennell Torrington explores relationships of interconnectivity through the expressive language of colour, mark making, and structural props that hold her drawings and sculptures together in an unconstrained tangle of hidden meanings, joy and pure fun.

Her work has been commissioned for public art institutions, including ‘Soft Is Stronger Than Hard’ at City Gallery Wellington, and ‘The Way You Have Held Things’ for Christchurch Art Gallery and just lately in a solo show ‘I’m Glad You’re Here, Just The Way You Are’ at Toi Pōneke Gallery in Wellington.

Since graduating MFA with distinction from Massey University in 2010, she has had numerous solo and groups shows and this is her explosive entry onto Ponsonby Road, Auckland.

Says the writer Alice Tappenden, “They are explosions, they are chaos at the edge of control, they are witches wands, they are body armour, they are a queer cry, they are a rallying call.”

Siân Quennell Torrington with drawing

Keep it warm watercolour pencil, pastel, oil pastel, charcoal on paper assemblage, 350mm x 550mm framed, 2021

Float and expand, pastel, oil pastel, charcoal assemblage on paper, 465mm x 610mm, 2021

OREXART, 221 Ponsonby Road, E:rex@orexart.co.nz www.orexart.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE

Tia Ansell, 2022, Zee, 64 x 50 x 6, Acyrlic on cotton handmade weaving in aluminium frame

TIA ANSELL EXHIBITION AT {SUITE} Tia Ansell: Red Light Horizon, 6 April – 30 April.

Operating primarily within the domains of painting and weaving, New Zealand born Melbourne based artist Tia Ansell makes handcrafted assemblages that blend mediums and styles, reflecting a fascination with the intersections between culture and consumerism, craft and high art.

Ansell’s upcoming exhibition at {Suite} Ponsonby, 189 Ponsonby Road, Auckland, presents a series of intricately rendered weaving-paintings, the canvases self-woven on a loom from either cotton, wool, bamboo or silk, which provide the substrate for the painted surfaces. Through this unique and painstaking process, Ansell creates elaborate lattices and geometric patterns that reference her surrounding urban landscapes.

Inspired by the art movements of Constructivism and Bauhaus, the works speak to ideas around mass production and industrialism, thematics that are reinforced by her methodical and repetitive technique. Though inset within aluminium frames based on museum storage trays, the works cannot be separated from their institutional context, the metal serving to both protect and confine the material and culture it represents. Against the aluminium, the designs of interlacing wefts and paint reflect, extending the illusion of repeated pattern.

This latest exhibition marks a shift in Ansell’s approach, with the artist working on a bigger loom which allows her to create at a larger scale than previous works. {Suite} GALLERY, 189 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 218 4399, www.suite.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE Photography: Lola Media

Photography: Kimberley Annan Dr. Charlotte Francis

Gemma Lee

FIRST TUESDAY AT ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY The First Tuesday Lunch Hour Concert on 3 May at St Matthew-in-the-City will feature the magic violin and piano combination of the Francis-Lee Duo. Formed in 2016, the ensemble features Charlotte Francis (violin) and Gemma Lee (piano). These highly experienced chamber musicians will present a concert of music by Schubert, Beethoven, Niels Gade and Monti. The programme is of a joyous nature and is guaranteed to lift spirits in these conflicted times.

The beautiful space of St Matthew’s and its fine acoustic will reward with the fine violin and piano music in the presentation for First Tuesday.

Charlotte Francis grew up in Brisbane and began learning violin and piano at the age of five. She holds a Bachelor of Music (Honours) from University of Auckland and a PhD in classics from the University of Otago.

Born in South Korea and raised in New Zealand, Gemma Lee is a collaborative pianist with a Master of Music (First class Honours) from the University of Auckland. She teaches at two

Auckland High Schools and also manages Lewis Eady Music School.

This will be the second appearance by Francis-Lee Duo as part of the First Tuesday series. The July 2021 performance drew a big audience and was greeted with enthusiastic applause, happening, as it did, in one of the windows of opportunity between strict Covid-19 settings.

Further First Tuesday Concerts for 2022 will include performances by St. Matthew’s Voices, The Royal New Zealand Navy Band, and Nicholas Forbes (organ). Piano and string soloists, and vocal ensembles are also part of the First Tuesday programme.

The First Tuesday Concert series is currently taking place under Covid Red Light conditions which means admittance is limited to 200 people and vaccine passes and masks are required.

Please scan in and observe physical distancing of one metre.

ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY, 132 Hobson Street, T: 09 379 0625, www.stmatthews.nz

EASTER

FRANCIS-LEE DUO

PALM SUNDAY: 10 April | 10am

Singing Violin and Piano

AT ST MATTHEW IN-THE-CITY

MAUNDY THURSDAY: 14 April | 7pm GOOD FRIDAY: 15 April | 10am / 5pm concert HOLY SATURDAY: 16 April | 8pm EASTER SUNDAY: 17 April | 10am Book a space to attend in person or watch our services online: stmatthews.nz

Music by Schubert, Beethoven, Niels Gade and Monti

Tuesday 3rd May 12.10pm - 12.50pm ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY 132 Hobson Street, Auckland City

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Photography by Adrian Malloch.

Bronwyn Cornishs' sculpture at ARTIS Gallery.

ARTS + CULTURE

ARTFUL CURATION IN YOUR OWN HOME… What is the backstory of Artful Curation?

How did you meet?

We met five years ago doing voluntary work at our sons’ school art show fundraiser (Clare doing the art curation and Julie the marketing). A friendship began and mutual respect for the expertise they brought to New Zealand art. Fast forward five years and Artful Curation is launched.

How does the technology work?

Using our VR (Virtual Reality) and AR (Augmented Reality) technology, we help you visualize the artwork in your own space. From the clients’ perspective it’s pretty simple. You hover over the QR code provided which leads to the VR template, from there you follow the instructions to see the art in your home. The viewer can then overlay the artwork [to scale] into their living room, kitchen, bedroom, garden and so on, bringing the artworks to life before committing and taking away the risk while being convinced that you are investing in something you love. It gives that little bit of extra confidence in the decision making. It’s almost a “try before you buy” process, which is novel and the whole family can get involved with the selection.

Is there a timeline with clients?

We like to refer to the timeline as an organic process where your art experience can be quickly executed or be a meandering journey as you like. We take our guidance from our clients when it comes to timeline. Our objective is that you walk away feeling totally connected to your artworks no matter how long it takes to get there. And hopefully the journey is enjoyable.

I like the concept of try before you buy Is that a successful strategy?

Everyone is at a different stage in their journey/experience with art. Some clients are very confident and know what they want, whereas others just need a little help with the selection of artworks or with the connection of the artworks throughout the home and with the family. Clare is a talented art curator and helps to bring the artworks to life in a co-ordinated manner so the total collection feels fluid and connected [this includes existing artworks and new artworks]. So, the 'try before you buy' technology enables the client to confidentially see

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the works in their house, cutting down time spent reviewing artwork options. This is particularly relevant for those people who are time poor.

Tell us about some of the artists you work with.

We are so lucky to be working with some of New Zealand’s most wonderfully talented artists. This can come via a commission in collaboration with the dealer gallery, such as David McCracken in collaboration with the Gow Langsford Gallery, as well as working from an idea or inspiration and coming up with a totally bespoke, client specific art installation and experience that pushes boundaries for all involved. How cool is that! But our key focus is to match artworks/artists with the client, so we look to a large pool of talented artists whom we work with.

One of the things you emphasize is that you are independent. Why is this important?

Because we are independent, we are able to cherry-pick from all the galleries and their treasure-trove backrooms.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

And we have a network of galleries sourcing artworks on our behalf with eyes in every part of New Zealand and the world making us incredibly mobile and able to deliver the variety, quality and creativity which our clients deserve.

Are there any trends that you are seeing in art collecting at the moment?

With Covid-19 and the need to spend more time at home, we are seeing interest in connecting people’s interiors with the exteriors, and interest in outdoor artworks. We have a great stable of artists who are delivering very beautiful artworks for gardens, courtyards and exteriors of buildings, in different proportions depending on space available. And with our technology we are able to present these in an easy to relate to way.

Why do you think your service is special or different to what else is out there?

We offer a wraparound service from art procurement to installation and documentation. The process of art selection

is enhanced and made more comfortable by being able to see some of the works in virtual and augmented reality in our clients home or garden before committing. From client feedback we believe it to be the intuitive artwork selection, project management, including the client wish list, and sometimes pushing boundaries that makes what we offer special. That comes from the close relationship that we form with our clients and the research we put into each individual client art selection and curation. We understand our clients’ needs and aim to deliver beyond expectation.

As our clients in Los Angeles commented: "What amazes me is the detail that everything is thought through. The artworks all work individually, they all work together as a linked collection and work with the interior of our home. Plus, the aesthetics make us individually happy and as a family. Just so successful, we couldn’t be happier."

Call Julie on 027 503 5116; or Clare on 021 0222 7293;

www.artfulcuration.art

Art Elevates Spaces.

Let Us Elevate Your Life.

Try before you buy

Don’t know where to start? Time poor?

making easy. See how our technology

Just want some help buying some art or displaying your existing artworks?

follow the prompts.

We offer a wraparound service from art procurement

We help you visualize the artwork in your own space, making the decision assists you. Hover over the QR code, Max Gimblett ‘Quatrefoil’ Images courtesy of the Artists

to installation and documentation.

If you would like to find out more please visit us at: www.artfulcuration.art

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ARTS HOROSCOPES + CULTURE

HOROSCOPES:

MISS PEARL NECLIS – what your stars hold for April

Aquarius (the Water Carrier)

Pisces (the Fishes) 20 February - 20 March You might have to find a balance this month between your brain and what you feel is intuition. The reality you’re living in is at odds with what you’re processing what’s going on around you. Think before you speak and don’t put a foot in it.

Aries (the Ram)

21 January - 19 February Pushing can get you a lot but don’t push too hard otherwise it could have the opposite affect of pushing back. You don’t want to burn out. Take things slowly for a while or you could go too fast and become overwhelmed.

Taurus (the Bull)

Gemini (the Twins)

21 April - 21 May Friends of yours could drop a seriously fantastic opportunity in your lap this month. Take a lot of notice and don’t dismiss the idea when you first hear it.

Don’t miss what can transpire this month.

22 May - 21 June If you’ve been looking at what direction to take in your life, then this month could be the start of a great journey. The doors that have up until now been closed to you will suddenly be open, if you look hard enough.

Cancer (the Crab) 22 June - 22 July If you were asked to look beyond your scope of vision, would you do it?

This month is the time to expand your horizons. You have no need to close yourself off from reality when you have the green light to move forward.

Leo (the Lion) 23 July - 21 August You might feel that this month isn’t going too well for you but you’ll be surprised because the opposite is happening. Your life is about to open up to new experiences. Embrace each day as it comes with those who matter most to you.

Virgo (the Virgin) 22 August - 23 September Someone might be trying to get a message to you this month. Be open and receptive as you don’t know what form the message will take. An opportunity to advance your career will present itself and all you have to do is sign on the dotted line.

Libra (the Scales) 24 September - 23 October You feel like you’re not enjoying yourself at the moment and you have this feeling like you’re on display somehow. If you feel like withdrawing from the scrutiny that is upon you it will be easy for you to retreat and reclaim the spotlight some other time.

Scorpio (the Scorpion)

Sagittarius (the Archer) 23 November - 22 December You feel like you are rushed off your feet and have a million things to do. Prioritise the tasks that require a bit more focus and you’ll find that you’re not treading water anymore.

Capricorn (the Goat) 23 December - 20 January You’re treading a fine line between work and play this month. What you’ll need to do is switch it up a bit. Concentrate more on work and let the bosses see that you are enthusiastic, and then you’ll be able to continue playing.

24 October - 22 November Someone in your life is about to shake it up. Every aspect will change for good. A possible chance encounter from the past could have you changing the way you live your life.

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21 March - 20 April The ideas that you are having seem fantastic but be careful about jumping in with your feet first. You could organise your goals and take time on making your first decision.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE

UPTOWN ART SCENE Figurative painting’s narrative can hint at new worlds in a myriad of ways, and these days, it’s refreshing to be immersed in the artist’s views rather than the news feed.

Liz Maw has made her own universe from blending the obscure with classic iconography. Her technique is almost painfully sharp, every detail shown in a stark and exacting manner that transcends realism. These paintings force their own reality, where everything is plainly stated yet any meaning completely opaque. At Ivan Anthony Gallery, Maw’s latest works glow on the walls.

In the centrepiece, Te Ra, a near life-size crucifixion has been clear-cut, its pale checkerboard background ready for your choice of new environs. The brilliant clash of a gold cross with a spill of violet fabric distract from the central deviance – a hand down loincloth. The martyr disregards his predicament in favour of the erotic embrace. Yet the true seduction is of us, the viewer, by the dazzling opulence of the painting itself, the startling clarity of colour and shape made sharper still by the indifferent grey squares from a computer program.

Te Ra by Liz Maw at Ivan Anthony

The paintings of Sam Mitchell at Melanie Roger Gallery use the universe of our past to create rich treasure maps of colour.

Painted on the reverse of shiny Perspex, a brilliantly coloured figure dominates the work, perhaps a polychromatic avatar of the artist. Holding on to their blue skin like tatu are notes from the past, Easter eggs of information that seek to pique and then satisfy our curiosity. These are homage to iconic artists and authors, parts of their lives affixed to the artist. In the work, Pat names of places and people are inscribed next to visual cues for Pat Hanley’s most famous paintings.

Mitchell’s work shows how history’s narratives become our own, pieces of culture and pop breaking from the outside world to become embedded inside us. The influence of our idols becomes part of us, allowing us to select, absorb, and adapt these threads of culture into new forms.

Paintings' narratives help us see many other ways of experiencing the world, slower and steadier than the news feed. (EVAN WOODRUFFE, Studio Art Supplies)  PN Pat by Sam Mitchell at Melanie Roger

www.studioart.co.nz

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Te Kohu, TVNZ onDemand

STREAMING ARTS + CULTURE GUIDE

STREAMING GUIDE APRIL 2022 With autumn comes darker, cooler nights and settling down to watch or binge some great content feels even more guilt-free.

TVNZ has some great local dramas to sink your teeth into, and Māori TV has launched another gritty and thought provoking season of Te Ao with Moana to keep you up with the play, while Neon continues to bring us internationally acclaimed local talent in a range of great shows.

TVNZ ONDEMAND Beyond the Veil

This anthology of spooky stories with supernatural elements are anchored in local experiences. As a curated collection of stories they complement each other beautifully, but there are two stand-out stories in this collection to look forward to.

Tappy

Good drama is supposed to take you on an emotional journey and Tappy cuts right to the heartstrings. You will be hard pressed not to laugh and cry during this moving road trip story that truly goes beyond the veil. The writing by experienced drama writer Tim Worrel is complemented by authentic and compelling performances by Dahnu Graham as Carlos, and Grace Hoete as Tappy. (You might remember Dahnu Graham from the hilarious local comedy Kura, which we reviewed in the November issue last year). I’d love to see more of Dahnu Graham as Carlos - I'm sure there is a spin series in this one.  Te Kohu

Patupaiarehe are mystical beings that can be both exquisitely beautiful and kind but also have reputations of being ruthless and dangerous to humans who cross the line. Te Kohu is a wonderful interpretation of the connection between humans and patupaiarehe. It encourages the audience to reconsider their position of how tightly to hold on to the ones you love and when to let them walk their own path. Beautifully shot with a great ending, it is one to watch. 

88 PONSONBY NEWS+ April 2022

The Pact

With an exceptional cast and heavy subject matter, The Pact takes you on a journey through the complicated issue of dementia and euthanasia. It’s character-driven and full of authentic humour. The talented cast, including Ian Mune, Irene Wood, Kirk Torrance, Browyn Bradley, Fasitua Amosa and Timmie Cameron, make each character’s story matter.

It’s a series which leaves you satisfied, but really wanting to know more about how this family navigates the next stage of their lives. I think there’s potential for a return series with these characters.  NEON Our Flag Means Death

From executive producer Taika Waititi, (who also stars as Blackbeard) Our Flag Means Death starts off in a slapstick silly comedic style reminiscent in some ways to Monty Python.

Rhys Darby breathes real life into the lead character Stede Bonnet. It’s a story loosely based on the real historical figure of Stede Bonnet, a wealthy landowner in the colony of Barbados who gives up the trappings of his privileged life to escape his troubled marriage and the crisis of mid-life. He buys a ship, runs away, and seeks a life of debaucherous adventures and plunder as a pirate on the high seas.

With a dose of gratuitously funny splatter in deathly fight scenes juxtaposed against the anxiety of a gentlemanly wannabe pirate captain who doesn’t like the idea of killing anyone, this series has a great premise that genuinely grows on you.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

STREAMING GUIDE Our Flag Means Death, NEON MĀORI TV / MĀORI+ Te Ao with Moana

After just two episodes the new season of Te Ao with Moana proves exactly why it deserved to win the Voyager Best Current Affairs show award.

Hosted by Moana Maniapoto, Te Ao with Moana is made up of a slick team of journalists who are unrelenting in seeking the truth. They fearlessly tackle the ‘triggering’ issues which divide communities while bringing an authentically empathetic eye to some of the more troubling events that affect us all. 

THREENOW Funny Girls

Hurry and catch the first episode of Season 3 of Funny Girls before it’s too late. Female comedic talent like this needs an ongoing stage so it can be savored, watched, re-watched, and re-watched again. Then it should be commissioned for more seasons so we can all enjoy the perspective of female writers and comedians on our screens who truly understand us.

There is so much to love in this series which blends an overarching sitcom style story arc with laugh-out-loud sketches that show gender inequalities for what they really are - totally hilariously absurd and wrong. 

Funny Girls, THREENOW

Full of great Kiwi talent, this story sails in its own direction, endearingly funny, and growing in charm with each episode. 

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Studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom options available. Contact Joss Lewis: 021 245 5155 or joss@ockham.co.nz ockham.co.nz