Auckland Obstetric Centre is a unique practice in Parnell made up of specialist obstetricians.
Together we have delivered over 15,000 babies, and working as a team, we’ll look after you from early pregnancy right through to your birth and post-natal period.
To find out more about how we can care for you and your baby, call our team or visit our website.
WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS
This year I have helped over 50 groups buy and sell fabulous homes in the greater Ponsonby area and represented homes ranging from million dollar apartments to thirteen million dollar residences.
It has been a real privilege to assist my loyal clients and friends who have entrusted me with the sale and purchase of their most valuable asset. My team and I wish you the very best for a safe and enjoyable Christmas and a blissful New Year!
Discover the New Meditaste
A Reimagined Experience in Grey Lynn!
E“It’s a thrilling moment for us—our loyal customers have been asking for a more central location for years, and we’re finally making it happen!” shares Donald with enthusiasm. “We’re not just bringing our Greek offerings; we’re expanding our collection to include delectable products from across the Mediterranean. This is something that Auckland has long needed, and we’re excited to fill that gap.”
Having moved from Athens to Auckland 14 years ago with a mix of their family’s treasures and a bounty of olives and Greek olive oil, Donald and Emily have cultivated a dedicated following at their North Shore store. This location has become a hub for takeaway Greek meals and cooking classes led by Emily at her venue, Emily’s Greek Kitchen. The couple’s passion for authentic, traditional cuisine has allowed them to share a slice of their heritage with the Auckland community for over a decade.
The new Meditaste store in Grey Lynn will boast an impressive selection of over 700 Mediterranean products sourced from Italy, Greece, France, Spain, the Middle East amongst others. “While we’ve primarily featured Greek cuisine in the past, we’re thrilled to broaden our horizons,” Emily explains. “We can’t wait to introduce items like dried figs, truffle products, Sicilian olives, cured meats, aged cheeses, and paella ingredients. Of course, our beloved Greek products will still be available, including chilled and frozen items like spanakopita and gyros, as well as homemade fresh dips like tzatziki and feta dip for your enjoyment at home.”
The couple is proud to take over such a historic site. Previously home to Huckleberry Farms and Harvest Wholefoods, both of which were pioneers in the organic food movement, Meditaste will honor this legacy with a dedicated wall of organic products. “We understand the journey of introducing new flavors to Auckland, and we admire the passion that those brands had for the same mission,” adds Donald.
xciting changes are on the horizon in Auckland with the launch of Meditaste, a brand-new destination for Mediterranean delights in Grey Lynn. This vibrant new store marks the second location for Donald Montes and Emily Tsaliagkou, the dynamic duo behind the beloved Taste Greece importing company and the rebranded Little Greece store in Browns Bay, now also known as Meditaste.
The grand opening weekend took place on November 30th and December 1st, when both Meditaste locations in Grey Lynn and Browns Bay celebrated their transformation. This event signified a new chapter for Taste Greece, celebrating their growth since their humble beginnings at the Pine Harbour market in 2010. Join us in this exciting venture and discover the flavors of the Mediterranean at Meditaste!
Get ready to experience the vibrant transformation of Meditaste! Both our Browns Bay and Grey Lynn locations have undergone an exciting makeover, and we invite you to celebrate with us.
This event symbolizes a significant milestone in our journey, reflecting our evolution since we first started at local farmers markets all around Auckland.
“We deeply appreciate the unwavering support from the Auckland community during our journey,” says Donald.
Come explore the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean at Meditaste and be part of this new chapter in our story! ■
A mediterranean feast awaits you at...
GREY LYNN:
407 Richmond Road
Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021
Email: gl@meditaste.nz
Phone: 09 281 5595
Opening Hours:
Monday through to Friday 8.30am - 7pm
Saturday: 8.30am - 6pm
Sunday: 8.30am - 5pm
BROWNS BAY:
Shop 7, 25 Anzac Road
(Next to New World)
Email: bb@meditaste.nz
Phone: 0800 473 323
Opening Hours:
Monday through to Friday 9.30am - 5pm
Saturday: 8.30am-3pm
Sunday: 8.30am - 5pm
014 LETTERS & EMAILS
034 DESLEY SIMPSON: DEPUTY MAYOR OF AUCKLAND
036 DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW
038 WAYNE BROWN: MAYOR OF AUCKLAND
042 HERNE BAY RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
044 MIKE LEE: AUCKLAND COUNCILLOR
045 PUNEET OF PONSONBY
046 GAEL BALDOCK: COMMUNITY ADVOCATE
051 MELISSA LEE: NATIONAL LIST MP – MT ALBERT
052 HELEN WHITE: MP FOR MT ALBERT
053 CHLÖE SWARBRICK: CO-LEADER GREEN PARTY
062 PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS
064 EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY
064 FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET
072 LIVING, THINKING & BEING
072 SARITA: AYURVEDA NEW ZEALAND 080 FASHION & STYLE
083
HELENE RAVLICH: A SUMMER OF FASHION & BEAUTY
086 SUMMER READING GUIDE
088 HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS
ARTS & CULTURE
THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES
PONSONBY CIVIC SPACE
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: JESSICA KORETZ
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.
Building a Greener Auckland: How Street Trees and Innovative Solutions Enhance Our City - p34
Editor/Publisher: MARTIN LEACH M: 021 771 147 martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz
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Annual Subscriptions: Within New Zealand $99. By cheque or credit card in NZ$. Please note: we do not hold back issues of Ponsonby News. Our archive is all online as pdfs. Please visit www.ponsonbynews.co.nz
The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechaal, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies and manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.
Photography:
Jon Avery | The Urbanist
TWO DECADES OF LOCAL SUCCESS
John Wills: Proven Local Expertise
John Wills is a proven and trusted name when it comes to residential real estate on the western city-fringe.
He brings over two decades of local sales experience to the table for his clients.
There are positive green shoots appearing in our local marketplace, but the current environment certainly calls for specialist knowledge, strong negotiation skills, work ethic and perseverance.
If you are planning a property move in 2025, please feel free to get in touch in complete confidence. John
ONLY ONE MORE YEAR UNTIL WE CAN BE RID OF SAGE
I recall the distress of our community at the inauguration of the Waitematā Local Board. Genevieve Sage, flanked by her husband Michael, espoused her vision, nowhere near realised in my opinion, for the chairmanship of the board. Of course, Sage only became the Chair because she voted against the wishes of her C&R team, the team she campaigned with, the same team we voters ensured had a majority on election day.
Since the inauguration we have seen repeated Letters to the Editor expressing frustration at her ability as a Chair and the disregard she has had for the team that got her elected. I understand Sage is no longer a member of Communities and Residents. Good! That doesn't stop Sage's continued lack of judgment, the latest example of which was filing another Code of Conduct Complaint against Sarah Trotman. Sage probably rode on Trotman's coat tails and reputation to get herself elected. Again, Sage's complaint was dismissed. I understand with a reminder that Sage needs to get a thick skin. Word is, her issue was Trotman's last article in Ponsonby News. It was a considered summary of the frustrations our community experienced with the long drawn out, poor process of the Olympic Pool lease and a call for better stewardship of our important community assets.
Thank you to Local Board Member Sarah Trotman for advocating for, and listening to, our community (yet again)!
Regards, J Phillips WHO MOVED MY BEER, MR. BROWN?
A NEW ERA OF WALKING AND CYCLING
I think I’ve just worked it all out.
The genius of it all lies – excuse the pun – in the fact that it comes across as so well intentioned. Who needs cars, right? Cars are just relics of the past when people thought it was convenient to drive to the shops. But now, with our $12,000 per metre cycle lanes (that’s a bargain, by the way, as the Downtown Christmas tree works out to $66,000 per metre), limited parking and bizarrely elevated pedestrian crossings, instead of going to the shops, we’re being taken to the cleaners. The council is subtly – not so subtly – suggesting, at our expense, that we live a simpler, more natural life. It’s like the council has a secret mission to turn all of us into walking and cycling peasants whether we want it or not.
I am over the council and all their cronyism, their dodgy contracts and their questionable board members.
We need to get back to first principles and have limited terms for councillors, electing genuine people from the community.
So, who moved my beer, Mr. Brown? Because I, like many Aucklanders, have had enough and it’s time for change.
Pete’s Sake, Concerned Ratepayers Herne Bay
AGAIN THE C&R MEMBER'S SUBSTANCE SHONE THROUGH
In this month’s Auckland Council Waitematā Local Board Business Meeting, among other things the board approved the Leys Institute Restoration project, starting mid 2025, touched base with the new public space plans at Te Ara Tukutuku, on Wynyard Point, and agreed to the Ponsonby Community Centre operating as a trust.
Member Trotman expressed deep concern, and rightly so, that over 300 pages of important Annual Plan 2025 - 2026 information landed just as the Workshop to discuss them started earlier that day. Member Trotman said disregard is shown to the voice of Local Boards when Auckland Council does not have a process that enables Local Boards time to consider material matters fully. Further, in the Business Meeting, the Chair shut down the sensible C&R voice by not adequately noting their objection to some, not all, advocacy positions being recorded in the Annual Plan Feedback.
We encourage more attendance by the public at Waitematā Local Board meetings. With Workshops now open and online, they are easily accessible and an opportunity for you to assess the performance of the Local Board and the critical issues they are addressing on our behalf.
Rock The Vote NZ
KELMARNA GARDENS – AN AMAZING COMMUNITY ASSET
I was chatting last night to a friend who is involved with Kelmarna Gardens, and was inspired to write in support of what an amazing place this is for the community. Although I’ve known about it for years, I wasn’t aware of just how extensive the farm is and how important it is for the community in so many ways.
As I spend quite a lot of time in France, I see a number of gardens based on a similar concept but nowhere near as exciting as this.
I’ve been googling it this morning and I just can’t wait to go and visit the farm personally and pick up some tips for my own vegetable garden efforts. I need them.
I understand the lease is up for renewal next year and they are wanting to increase the opportunity for community involvement. I for one am very keen and I’m looking forward to attending the farm dinners. I hope others will also support them so this wonderful place continues to flourish and bring so much joy to the community.
Anne Batley Burton
THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAILS
When Alex Bonham and Richard Northey tried to take the credit for the hard work of other (C&R) board members to save the Olympic Pools, it seems they forgot to check the details. In this case, their misleading newsletter to the community didn’t match up to the board meeting minutes…. oops. Here’s the thing Richard, you can’t write that you supported an outcome that you voted against. Trying to rewrite history for personal gain, has no place in local politics.
We don’t have to agree with our local politicians on the issues, but their integrity matters. Turns out City Vision fell well short again.
When it comes to the next election, we need to hold our politicians to a higher standard.
Meanwhile, a huge thanks to Sarah Trotman and the C&R team for actually saving the Olympic Pools. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Jo Malcolm
CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
We have so many wonderful memories of Nikki Kaye who sadly passed away last month.
Nikki was one of a kind and we will remember her with great fondness. She once invited me to join her for an event at Richmond Road School – we were filmed together and I was grateful for the PR coverage.
One night, she and I were having dinner at Ponsonby Road Bistro when Jacinda walked in – it was kisses all round and I was surprised to see what good friends they were despite their different political views. Rest in peace dear Nikki.
After 22 amazing years, Trade Aid Ponsonby on the strip closed up shop. During this time, their Ponsonby shop has been an active part of the community, with hundreds of volunteers joining their ranks and educating Aotearoa on fair trade issues (such as modern slavery legislation).
Our cover stars this month are Hannah and Jordan Engelsman of Little ‘Lato. We are spoilt for choice in the ice cream department. We have Ben & Jerry’s, Boozylato, Island Gelato, Duck Island and now Movenpick is opening their new store later this month. Bring on summer!
We are so proud of Freemans Bay resident Celia Visser who has won the same design award again for her amazing kitchens, making it a delightful double for this multi-award-winning designer.
At a gala event held at the Royal Lancaster in London last month, 650 guests from the design community worldwide came together to celebrate and showcase the best of global interior design and
DOWNSIZING
Martin Leach, Jay Platt, Tiger & Jack
to reward the best designs from 2024. In front of hundreds of her peers and design colleagues, Celia was presented with a crystal trophy crafted by Czech glass specialist Sans Souci.
This festive season, Ponsonby Central offers everything you need to make your holidays merry and bright.
Come for the gifts, stay for the food and enjoy all the holiday magic.
When it comes to ticking off your Christmas list, Ponsonby Central has something for everyone. You can shop unique finds at their vintage stores, discover homeware, locally designed clothing and even the perfect gift for the tech lover in your life. When you simply can’t decide, Ponsonby Central’s gift vouchers are an amazing option for those who love to dine, shop and explore. They make perfect teacher gifts too.
Don’t forget it’s Ponsonby Christmas Market Day on Saturday 7 December. (MARTIN LEACH & JAY PLATT) PN
Are you thinking about moving into a smaller home or retirement village but feeling daunted by the amount of work involved?
Elderly Assist is here to help. We have an experienced, ethical team ready to help you with downsizing, decluttering and packing, moving and unpacking.
We can manage the whole process or any part of your move – you choose. We can clear garages and basements. Selling and gifting what we can and disposing of the rest ethically.
Call our founder, Janice Willis for a chat on 0800 839 874, she can send you a brochure.
Photography: Jane @ Kloser
IT’S A TEAM EFFORT...
WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT OUR CONTRIBUTORS
CHLÖE SWARBRICK
Chlöe Swarbrick is the MP for and the biggest fan of Auckland Central - she is Co-Leader of the Green Party of Aotearoa NZ.
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 over three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.
DESLEY SIMPSON
I am a dedicated and approachable Deputy Mayor of Auckland, with a handson approach and genuine commitment to improving local communities and solving issues in Auckland.
GAEL BALDOCK
We each follow our moral compass shaped by training. Mine is sculpting, architecture, sociology, anthropology and betterment of our shared world by community advocacy… and saving trees.
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.
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.
LISA PRAGER
A life long advocate for community issues, I am passionate about protecting and enhancing our natural environment and built heritage.
MELISSA LEE
I have been a National List MP based in Mt Albert for the last 15 years, working hard to deliver outcomes for our community. I am also the Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Ethnic Communities, and Associate Minister for ACC.
MIKE LEE
I am the councillor for Waitematā & Gulf. A former seafarer, former chair of the ARC, conservationist, PT advocate, and author. I have represented the Ponsonby area since 1992.
PHIL PARKER
Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.
PUNEET DHALL
I am an Aucklander of Indian origin, Punjabi and Sikh. I have a keen interest in food, wine and politics.
ROSS THORBY - QSM
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.
SARITA SOLVIG BLANKENBURG
I am a passionate Ayurveda practitioner based in Ponsonby for the last 15 years. Inspiring others to live a healthy and fulfilled life is my higher purpose.
SARISA NASINPROM
Born in Thailand. Aotearoa is now my home. I believe we have but one body, one being, and a duty to care for it and to help others to care for theirs.
SARAH TROTMAN, ONZM
She has been rated the most effective Governor on the Waitematā Local Board. However, we rate her as the most effective community advocate, who led the C&R team from her sole voice on the Board to the majority at the last election, until...
MARKET DAY
SAT 7 DEC
Meet, celebrate, shop & discover all your festive gifts in Ponsonby, with Santa & his Fairies from 11am – plus over 20 independent market stalls from the General Collective.
In collaboration with:
iloveponsonby
THE FESTIVE SEASON AT PONSONBY CENTRAL
This festive season, Ponsonby Central offers everything you need to make your holidays merry and bright.
Come for the gifts, stay for the food and enjoy all the holiday magic.
When it comes to ticking off your Christmas list, Ponsonby Central has something for everyone. You can shop unique finds at their vintage stores, discover homeware, locally designed clothing and even the perfect gift for the tech lover in your life. When you simply can’t decide, Ponsonby Central’s gift vouchers are an amazing option for those who love to dine, shop and explore. They make perfect teacher gifts too.
After you’ve crossed off your shopping list, take a break and treat yourself to some of the best food in Auckland. Home to an eclectic mix of eateries, bars and sweet treats, Ponsonby Central offers something for every taste and occasion. With a variety of cozy spots and outdoor seating options, it's the perfect place to relax and refuel while soaking up the festive buzz.
Bring the whole family along for some extra festive fun with Ponsonby Central’s Great Elf Hunt. Kids and adults alike will love the interactive scavenger hunt as they search for hidden elves. It's a magical activity that will keep everyone entertained and is the perfect way to make family memories. With tons of prizes and plenty of cheer along the way, it’s the perfect activity to get into the holiday spirit.
This Christmas, embark on a merry adventure to uncover the 12 mischievous elves secretly hiding around Ponsonby Central. Each elf holds a clue to a mystery phrase, and if you can uncover them all, you’ll unlock the chance to win a share of $10,000 worth of treats and experiences at Ponsonby Central.
The Foundation recently celebrated the official opening of Pearson House, a beautifully restored 19th Century architectural gem that now serves as the gateway to the village.
Situated on Titoki Street, overlooking the Auckland Domain, Pearson House is a Category 1 Heritage Listed Building. Originally constructed in 1926, this Neo-Georgian masterpiece has undergone a $17 million upgrade that includes seismic strengthening and meticulous refurbishment. Now revitalised, it promises longevity for generations to come and provides village residents with an unparalleled living experience.
A Vital Link to the Past
Designed by the renowned architectural firm Gummer and Ford, Pearson House was originally a residence catering to blind servicemen returning from WWI. Its purpose-built design ensured visibility for the blind in Auckland society, establishing the building as a significant part of the city’s landscape.
Over the decades, Pearson House has been a symbol of resilience and cultural value. The recent restoration preserves this legacy, with Generus Living collaborating closely with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and Auckland Council to ensure the conservation work respected its historical integrity.
Heritage New Zealand’s Senior Conservation Architect, Robin Byron, praises Pearson House as an outstanding example of 1920s Neo-Georgian architecture. She notes, “Its original purpose as a facility for blind returned servicemen has been thoughtfully echoed in its new role, offering modern amenities while honouring its heritage.”
A New Era for Pearson House
The upgraded Pearson House is now a central feature of The Foundation’s luxury lifestyle village, serving as its private club and offering a sophisticated retreat for residents, their friends and families. The building seamlessly integrates history and modernity, blending heritage architecture with contemporary functionality.
The refurbishment brings new life to key spaces, including the reinstatement of the original colonnade linking the elegant Drawing Room and Reading Room. The ground floor now houses an eatery, Maddington on the Domain, while the upper level features a boutique cinema, billiard room, lounge, art studio, cardio studio and a wellbeing suite.
Generus Living Director Graham Wilkinson describes Pearson House as an uplifting space that enhances the cultural fabric of The Foundation. “The Parnell precinct, with its rich history and enviable location, is incredibly special. Pearson House is a tangible link to the past, and its preservation ensures this remarkable property continues to inspire,” he says.
Excellence in Design
The interior design, led by award-winning Stewart Harris of Macintosh Harris, reflects the building’s Neo-Georgian roots. Harris’s vision incorporates richly textured elements that link traditional aesthetics with contemporary elegance.
“I imagined how one would journey through the spaces, making it an uplifting experience with bursts of light, colour and texture,” Harris explains. He achieved this through carefully curated wallcoverings, artworks, chandeliers and furniture.
Peddlethorp leads The Foundation's master planning and were lead architects on the restoration of Pearson House, supported by heritage architects, Salmond Reed. Salmond Reed played a key role in design development and structural upgrades, focusing on seismic strengthening while respecting the building’s heritage. This included the innovative restoration of four chimneys, which were disassembled, reinforced with lightweight earthquake-safe materials, and reassembled to maintain their historical appearance.
The Foundation Vision
Pearson House is a cornerstone of The Foundation’s multi-stage development, which will accommodate over 250 residents upon its completion. This visionary project includes luxury residences that complement the historic and contemporary architectural features of the village.
The Nathan Residences, the first stage of the development, opened in October 2023. The next stage, Abbott Residences, will open second half 2026, furthering The Foundation’s goal of creating a harmonious blend of luxury, heritage and sustainability.
The Foundation is part of the Generus Living Collection. Graham Wilkinson, Generus Livings' Director emphasises “Generus
Living is committed to sustainable development, ensuring that modern buildings complement the historic charm of properties like Pearson House and the adjacent Jubilee Building.”
A Legacy Reimagined
Pearson House stands as both a symbol of Auckland’s heritage and a beacon of modern living. Its restoration showcases the best of architectural preservation, sustainable development and community-focused design.
By breathing new life into this iconic building, The Foundation has ensured that Pearson House remains a vibrant part of Auckland’s landscape for generations to come.
THE FOUNDATION, 541 Parnell Road, T: 09 869 3947, www.thefoundationvillage.co.nz
TREVOR BROWNE — REST IN PEACE
Trevor Browne who passed away suddenly on Monday 4 November, commenced working for Early Settler Ponsonby in 2006 and quickly established himself as one of the team and also of the wider community.
His work ethic and relationship with customers and staff alike led to him being often referred to as the ‘owner of Early Settler’.
Trevor was born and raised in Whanganui and spent his early years there and then moved to Wellington for his formative years, his schooling occurring at Kelburn Primary, Marist Brothers and Wellington Boys. He was never an academic but was extremely creative. His mother was a bridal store owner and Trevor worked with her creating bridal wear, cocktail, evening and after 5 wear.
He had a great love for animals especially cats and often would take the stray cats and kittens home. He also befriended many Ponsonby cats who were always happy to grace the furniture.
Trevor had a great interest in fashion and in 1973 entered the Benson and Hedges Fashion design awards winning the first ever Supreme Wool Award Design as well as the Supreme Evening Wear design. He continued in fashion and also managed the high-end menswear store ‘His Lordships’. He then changed from fashion to furniture homewares and artwork working at Country Theme in Newmarket.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
ANOTHER POOR ACT BY AUCKLAND TRANSPORT (AT)
Why has AT suddenly started issuing tickets for parking in your driveway – that part of the driveway which is considered the berm driveway.
We often park in our driveway as do many in the surrounding streets. Over the last month, AT has issued tickets for each car at a cost of $70. As the fines are mailed, you have a week’s worth of tickets before you even realise this has happened.
Is AT targeting a small area or have they ticketed all of Grey Lynn and Ponsonby?
Looks like a revenue collecting exercise. You would think with such a poor public image right now, they might have gone about this differently. At least warned residents that they were going to start issuing tickets for parking on what they say is their property, albeit your driveway but their berm!
Another poor deliverable from AT.
Nikki Daly-Jones
His sole reason for working was because he enjoyed it and wished to ensure that his customers received the best possible service. He'll be missed by the team. When Trevor first became ill and was receiving treatment, he said, "I hope to be back on deck soon doing what I love to do, with people I love doing it with.” He achieved that, still working Sunday shifts up until just a couple of weeks ago — a testament to his passion and work ethic.
THEFT OF CHURCH PANTRY
Whoever stole the perspex doors off the Grey Lynn Community Church’s pantry should be ashamed of themselves.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 34
Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News.
Luxury Meets Location
The Foundation is without doubt, one of the most sought-after retirement locations in Auckland. The restoration of Pearson House, a private club for residents is now complete. This historic building includes a stylish eatery, boutique cinema, art studio, wellbeing suite and billiards room.
To view the plans for Abbott Residences, or to arrange a private tour, please make an appointment with Bev Dyson.
KELMARNA COMMUNITY FARM KITCHEN
It might be pelting down outside but it’s cosy and dry in the Kelmarna Community Farm kitchen and dining area where the current cohort of farmhands is gathering for their weekly shared lunch.
It’s a delicious feast of market garden goodness picked, prepared and cooked by a couple of the volunteers.
The Kelmarna Farmhands' programme has been running for three years, two times a year with around 10-14 farmhand volunteers in each cohort.
The programme is for anyone keen to fast-track their learning about regenerative organic food growing techniques who is happy to make some commitment in return.
And the cohort nature of the group gives the volunteers the chance to form lasting social connections and learn from peers in the programme.
Mother of two, Kate, has a home garden in Birkenhead with a vegetable patch and a piece of farmland up north where she and her husband are planning to plant an orchard, develop a food forest and plant more natives.
She says she has learned a lot about giving plants the best chance of success. "I’ve learned about planting, pruning, feeding, mulching, soil drenching and controlling pests and diseases.
"A nice part of the programme is spending time with likeminded people and sharing our knowledge. Being outside and doing physical activities is also good for my mental health."
An experienced home gardener, Diane wanted to learn more about market gardening and specifically how Kelmarna incorporates growing vegetables with growing fruit trees and tending animals.
"It’s an important hub of experience and learning right here in Grey Lynn," she says. "It is such a vibrant and active place giving everyone a chance to link up with all the activities here – volunteering, attending educational workshops or buying fresh produce from the shop.
"My plan after the course is to meet up with market gardeners to see if I can help or support them to be more sustainable. There is an urgent need to change the way we grow our food; it is not environmentally or financially sustainable at the moment."
The 16-week programme runs every Friday from 9am – 3pm with practical and in-classroom sessions for the farmhands to learn skills and gain confidence in small market gardening operations or production-focused home gardening. Skills covered include soil health, propagation, planting, weeding, harvesting, composting, food forest principles and practice, animal care and, of course, preparing a shared lunch from the farm.
Programme leader Sarah Lilly Moss-Baker says some farmhand graduates often go on to start community gardens or food forests within their neighbourhoods. "Some of them find something they love doing here and specialise in that. Lizzie from one course last year has become really involved in our composting and Chris now does many of our flowers.
"If people come here to learn these skills and share and spread them into their community, then we have done our job. It would be wonderful to have a Kelmarna Community Farm in every neighbourhood."
Kelmarna will be advertising for the next round of Farmhands in early 2025.
Check out the Farmhands web page for more info: kelmarna.co.nz/farm-hands/
Every year across the Vector network, large numbers of gas leaks are caused by tradies or home DIYers hitting our gas pipelines. Given gas is toxic and highly flammable, it can be dangerous, as well as costly, to those who hit them. A gas leak is also harmful to the environment.
Underground gas pipes can be anywhere. They could be under a lawn or a driveway, so you should always check before you start digging.
Vector works with BeforeUDig, an online service designed to help anyone undertaking design and excavation works, find information on the location of cables and pipes in and around the area they are planning to dig.
The location of cables and pipes should always be double checked once you get to the worksite as sometimes ground movements can affect the accuracy of plans.
How do I get a free underground plan?
Simply register at beforeudig.co.nz or call 0800 248 344 to request the underground plans for the address you’re working at before the digging starts.
PENE MILNE:
YOU SPEAK OF AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE – WHAT DO YOU MEAN?
I have been selling homes for 23 years and it still feels like yesterday.
In part, because a lot has happened in my life in that time, as for us all, and in part because I love selling every home no matter the value.
It really is the process – yes, long hours and detailed to get it right – no margin for mistakes – but to see the joy or relief with people always makes it worthwhile.
While I may be mostly known for high-value and waterfront homes, every market brings different challenges and opportunities and you can’t beat the satisfaction of negotiation and closing a sale.
It has been the hardest three of the 23 years and notably harder than the GFC in 2008 for example.
It takes an attitude of gratitude, planning and patience. People think fewer sales mean less work. It is the opposite –fewer sales, more listings, more focus to hunt and gather, and that is a constant service for all my clients.
What’s been interesting in the past year?
I have had sales from $18m-plus, to $500k – and everything inbetween.
Where are your listings generally?
I have a very broad client base. It is a happy accumulation of these 23 years, and it has changed over time as my network has evolved – kids grow up, they go from needing a specific school zone, to empty nest and finding a great lock and leave so they can spend time at the beach or QT for example. I (very broadly) sell from Westmere waterfront to Parnell and the high-end city in between.
I also have an extensive network on Waiheke and I just love the properties I have sold there. Extraordinary waterfront, extraordinary homes, extraordinary micro climate. For example, six sales (nine titles) in the past 22 months have ranged from $5m - $23m. I have just listed a premium home on the island close the ferry, on Nick Johnstone Drive.
How are auctions now as we slowly lean out of the last tough three years?
My October/November auctions have sold under the hammer. It is a solid way for owners to cut through the market waffle, understand their options and choices, stay in control and for buyers to transact on their ideal terms also. Clearance rates are on the rise generally. It is not a straight line, but it is a clear trend.
How is the local area looking?
There have been fewer sales in Ponsonby/Herne Bay/St Marys Bay – fewer new listings than expected. The pipeline is building, let's see what the new year brings but I expect more to come on from mid-February. Residential might be a steady slower burn until after winter.
What advertising is working?
It is not a one-size fits all. While people assume digital is the key, it is a part of strategy only. Some websites are stronger than others depending on the type of property. Print remains key – don’t dismiss it – the qualified enquiries from it are clear.
Digital is a busy space and to stand out we must go big for footprint and top of the sites. Price is all relevant.
www.facebook.com/penemilne1
FRANKLIN ROAD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2024: A SPARKLING TRADITION WITH A FEW CHANGES
The Franklin Road Christmas Lights are set to return this December bringing holiday magic and community spirit to Auckland once again.
Now marking its 31st year, this beloved tradition transforms Franklin Road into a dazzling display delighting children, families and visitors eager to embrace the Christmas spirit.
At the heart of this treasured tradition are the Franklin Road residents who produce the event by the community, for the community. Recognizing the impact of the event on the neighbourhood, the community has worked together to make some meaningful changes.
This year's lights will begin on Saturday 7 December, a week later than usual, and the lights will be switched off at 10pm – an hour earlier than in previous years. This will reduce the impact of the noise and disruption of the event. In addition, the businesses along Ponsonby Road are supporting the residents and providing security personnel to help manage and reduce the presence of unlicensed vendors.
These modifications are designed to ensure that the Franklin Road Christmas Lights can continue to delight for more years to come.
For more information, please contact:
Eric Wilson, Franklin Road Christmas Lights Coordinator Phone: M: 027 263 9006
Affectionately known as the “Copper Top,” this exceptional estate on Waiheke Island blends architectural brilliance, stunning views, and luxurious living. Designed by Glamuzina Architects, it offers 556 sq m of tranquillity, recently renovated to the highest standard. Located minutes from Matiatia Wharf, Oneroa, and vineyards, it provides easy access to Waiheke’s best attractions. The main house features open-plan living with expansive glass walls, merging indoor/outdoor spaces and offering panoramic views. It includes a large kitchen with Calacatta Quartzite, three ensuite bedrooms (including a luxurious master), and a library/office.
The resort-style outdoor area features a pool with kiddie, lap, and swim sections, plus lush gardens, and patios. The property includes a guest studio, caretaker cottage, and a 93 sq m shed/workshop for vehicles or hobbies.
@ THE STUDIO OF TABLEWARE
For all your gifts and entertaining!
@ THE STUDIO OF TABLEWARE
New items and super specials in store now – beautiful complementary gift wrapping. You’ll find something for everyone on your Christmas gift list. For the best selection of dinnerware, glassware, kitchen and cookware, gifts and NZ’s largest range of quality stainless and silver cutlery. Dedication to service, combined with fantastic parking right outside the door, make The Studio of Tableware a most enjoyable shopping experience.
THE STUDIO OF TABLEWARE, 5 Harold Street, Mt Eden, T: 09 638 8082, thestudio.co.nz
FOR ALL YOUR GIFTS & ENTERTAINING! New items and super specials in store now - beautiful complimentary gift wrapping. You’ll find something for everyone on your Christmas gift list. For the best selection of dinnerware, glassware, kitchen and cookware, gifts and NZ’s largest range of quality stainless & silver cutlery. Dedication to service, combined with fantastic parking right outside the door, makes The Studio of Tableware a most enjoyable shopping experience
The Studio of Tableware | 5 Harold Street, Mt Eden | thestudio.co.nz
NZ’s leading tableware & kitchenware specialist since 1981
NZ’s leading tableware & kitchenware specialist since 1981
100 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE AT GILTRAP AUDI
They say it takes 10,000 hours to master a craft, but at Giltrap Audi, our longest-serving team members have dedicated far more than that.
With over a century of combined expertise, their commitment to excellence has made them true masters, embodying a passion for Audi that runs deep.
From right to left - years of service: Cameron Gemmell (18 years), Mike Jennings (17 years), Erol Ibrahimbegov (32 years), Mike Doak (18 years), Phil Manktelow (14 years), Gary Cutfield (5 years).
SARAH TROTMAN, ONZM, C&R MEMBER AND ELECTED MEMBER
THE EXCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR URBAN REGENERATION IN UPTOWN
The completion of the Maungawhau (Mount Eden) station as part of Auckland's City Rail Link (CRL) project presents a unique opportunity for urban regeneration in the Uptown area.
This rare opportunity should be the top Advocacy Position for the Waitematā Local Board.
The three-hectare space surrounding the station is set to become a vibrant hub combining commercial, residential and public spaces, contributing to Auckland’s goal of a more sustainable, accessible and dynamic city. However, with development expected to take years, it’s essential to begin proactive planning now. Continued strong leadership from Brent Kennedy, CEO of the Uptown Business Association, will be crucial in ensuring the area’s successful transformation.
Uptown’s Unique Character and Advocacy
Uptown is a distinctive district, known for its blend of local businesses, heritage buildings, and community events. The Uptown Business Association (UBA) has long championed the area’s unique character, helping to establish a strong sense of identity. As the land around Maungawhau station is earmarked for mixed-use development, there’s an opportunity to build on this identity while fostering excitement for what’s to come. This requires thoughtful planning for short-term uses to activate the space and engage the community before permanent development begins.
Energise the Three Hectares Now
Temporary uses, such as events, public art installations, and green spaces, can inject energy into the area while building anticipation for future development. For example, interactive art, sustainable architecture concepts, and community gardens can help connect the space with its future potential. A low-traffic neighbourhood could be introduced, previewing the walkable, people-centred environment that might define Uptown’s future.
Cohesive, Sustainable Development and Collaboration for Future Success
The transformation of the three hectares will require substantial collaboration between stakeholders. With Brent Kennedy’s strong leadership, the vision for Uptown is being carefully articulated, aiming to create an urban district that residents, workers, and visitors can be proud of. I’m confident he’ll have a view on how to ensure future growth is cohesive, sustainable, and innovative.
I hope for strong collaboration between Auckland Transport, CRL, Eke Panuku, and the Uptown Business Association to ensure the development aligns with the area’s character while meeting the city’s broader goals. Provisions will no doubt include mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and cultural spaces, as well as incentives for sustainable building practices like green roofs and energyefficient designs.
The Importance of Green Spaces and a Positive First Impression
Equally important will be the integration of green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and open public areas. These features should remain flexible, responding to community needs while ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. A long-term master plan for the seven sites should guide development, ensuring it evolves in harmony with the surrounding environment.
By 2026, when the station opens, as visitors exit the station, we want them to encounter a dynamic environment that merges heritage with forward-thinking urban design. The entire area should be enhanced to make the area inviting from day one, encouraging people to explore. Seamless connectivity will help visitors navigate the area easily, whether they are heading to work, enjoying local cafés, or exploring future developments.
A Vision for Uptown’s Future
Through strategic planning, the thoughtful use of temporary spaces, and a commitment to a bold, future-focused vision, Uptown will continue to be one of the most exciting and innovative areas in Auckland. By engaging the community and sharing a strong vision for future development, Uptown will be well-positioned to flourish as a destination that combines the best of Auckland’s past with the promise of its future. (SARAH TROTMAN ONZM) PN
To contact Sarah Trotman, in her capacity as a C&R Member, email her at sarahtrotman@outlook.com
To contact her in her capacity as an Elected Member of Auckland Council’s Waitematā Local Board, email her at sarah.trotman@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or you can give her a call on M: 021 487 583.
BUILDING A GREENER AUCKLAND:
How Street Trees and Innovative Solutions Enhance Our City
Auckland Council is on a mission to create a greener and more sustainable city, with street trees playing a central role in this vision.
As Auckland grows, street trees become even more valuable, offering benefits that go beyond aesthetics. They improve our environment and enhance community wellbeing. With the adoption of innovative solutions like structural soil tree pits –a technique being trialled in urban Auckland – Auckland is not only increasing tree numbers but also helping to ensure they thrive.
Street trees are essential to urban life, offering many benefits. By capturing carbon, filtering pollutants and releasing oxygen, they help clean Auckland’s air, contributing to a healthier environment. Trees also provide shade, cooling streets and buildings, which mitigates the urban heat that builds up in densely populated areas. This cooling effect creates more comfortable temperatures in spaces, especially valuable during the warmer months.
Trees are also effective at managing stormwater, their canopy intercepts and slows down rainfall and the roots break up the soils and absorb and slow down runoff, helping to prevent flooding and pollution in our waterways. Given the city’s frequent, and sometimes heavy, rainfall, this function is crucial, as it helps reduce pressure on stormwater systems, protects our waterways and improves water quality.
Beyond their environmental benefits, street trees support community wellbeing. Tree-lined streets encourage walking, cycling and outdoor activity, promoting a more active lifestyle and creating pleasant urban environments.
To help street trees thrive in urban spaces, Auckland Council is trialling structural soil tree pits along the new linear park on Victoria Street. This park forms part of a 'Green Link' connecting Albert Park to Victoria Park, a concept originally
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22
POWER AND MONEY AND AUCKLAND TRANSPORT
My concerns about how much power and money Auckland Transport has have been growing and solidified in the last couple of months.
Driving through Flat Bush a month ago, I was astounded to see the wide arterial road that previously had a median strip that allowed cars to safely wait to turn down a side road, now had long concrete strips that stopped cars doing this. And, instead, forced cars to the next set of traffic lights to somehow do a U turn to get to the side street they intended turning into. At a guess this supposed ‘street upgrade’ would have cost the Auckland tax payer no less than $500k? Complete waste of money and absolutely no need for this.
That was nothing compared to the $130m street upgrade of Carrington Road approved by AT within a matter of minutes at their October meeting.
The following week, I watched in despair for over an hour as council squabbled with AT whether to fund $5m to help the 37 residents that have not been able to access their homes for the last two years due to the flooding in Waitakere.
identified in the Public Life Survey of Auckland in 2010. The vision for this corridor is to create a tree-lined urban oasis that enhances connectivity and provides an inviting space for residents and visitors alike. Structural soil tree pits are designed to provide more space for tree roots and gaseous exchange, promoting healthier, longer-lasting trees. Traditional tree pits can be too restrictive, causing tree health issues and even pavement damage.
Structural soil tree pits use engineered soils, combining crushed rock with soil and organic materials to create a stable but porous medium that supports root growth while providing structural support for above ground surfaces. They are trafficable, meaning they can be used under footpaths, vehicle crossings and carpark spaces, making them a flexible and adaptable option for urban spaces. This innovation helps trees grow stronger and larger, even in challenging urban environments.
They also provide stormwater management benefits, as their engineered soils can retain water and reduce runoff. For Auckland’s climate, this approach supports tree health while also reducing pressure on stormwater systems.
Through the delivery of concepts like structural soil tree pits, Auckland Council is investing in a greener, more resilient city. These solutions help ensure that street trees can thrive in challenging urban environments, offering long-term environmental and social benefits. As this approach expands, Auckland will become greener and more sustainable, paving the way for a healthier future for all.
DESLEY SIMPSON, Deputy Mayor of Auckland www.desleysimpson.co.nz
Would it not make sense to suspend Carrington Road, as it will still function perfectly fine for the next eight years. Do what is logical and compassionate – fix those roads that belong to council, so the 37 families can access their homes?
Last week after dinner we decided to go for a walk at Pt Chev beach. What a mission to get to the beach with all the road works. After enjoying the sunset at the beach, we headed home and driving along Pt Chev Road we saw an ‘upgrade’ that clearly demonstrated another example of AT’s war on cars. The footpaths so wide, that only one lane in either direction would force cars to a grinding halt if, heaven forbid, anyone got off the bus. Who in their right mind would put a bus stop in the middle of the road?
I am so, so relieved to hear that Mayor Wayne Brown has plans to stop Auckland Transport destroying our city. I am thankful that Honourable Simeon Brown is listening and assisting the Mayor with this. AT only cares for two things –buses and bikes. And everyone else must wait in line for them. How can our city function and be profitable by this agenda?
Muy Chhour
CONTINUED ON PAGE 49
DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH TANIA MACE
Tania Mace is an historian and researcher who mostly works in the area of heritage assessments.
She has lived in Grey Lynn all her adult life and has been deeply involved in defending the built Edwardian heritage of the neighbourhood from the predations of revised district plans.
Where did the idea for your book, published by Massey University Press, come from – 'The Near West, a history of Grey Lynn, Arch Hill and Westmere'?
I’d always been interested in the history of the area and I thought I’d like to write a book about it – fortunately for me, Grey Lynn is also home to award-winning publisher Nicola Legat, who has been part of this project since the very beginning.
How long did it take to write your book?
A really, really long time. My children were both at primary school when I started writing this book – now they are at high school and university.
What were some of the research challenges?
You go down so many rabbit holes – sometimes you find what you need but other times you spend far, far too long searching for a tiny, elusive detail that sometimes didn’t even make it into the book. In the end, there are many sources that can shed light on the history of a place but you have to understand that primary sources were not created with the historians of today in mind and because common terms, place names, street names and numbers have often changed over time, there can be much to untangle.
Did you find some surprises while researching the book?
One of the surprises was finding that George Baildon, who would later become Mayor of Grey Lynn Borough and Auckland City, lived in the same humble dwelling where artist Theo Schoon lived in the 1950s and 1960s. When I was having trouble writing the introduction, I suddenly realised that the story of the area could be introduced through the history of two humble houses and the people who lived in them – the Baildon/Schoon house being one of them.
The book is stunning, full of remarkable characters.
Can you tell us about a couple of them?
Two examples that spring to mind are visual artist Theo Schoon, who lived in Arch Hill in the 1950s and 1960s, and performance artist Warwick Broadhead, who lived in Grey Lynn for three decades from the late 1970s.
Schoon was an exotic addition to the arty set, having been born to Dutch parents on the island of Java in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). He spent much of his childhood in Java before being sent to school in the Netherlands, later studying art in Rotterdam. He was well known for his fascination with Māori art and his displays of Javanese dancing. While living in Home Street, he painted and developed his obsession with carved Māori gourds – gathering seeds from far and wide, growing gourds that tangled their way over the front fence and through the back garden, which he later harvested, dried and carved.
He influenced other New Zealand artists including Gordon Walters and Westmere potter Len Castle. Warwick Broadhead was known for his highly creative performance pieces, many involving a wide variety of amateurs. Brought up in conservative Mount Roskill, Broadhead moved to Sydney as a young man, where he studied dance and immersed himself in the gay scene.
He returned to New Zealand and in the 1970s and formed the Full Moon Follies, an amateur performance group that put on theatrical events every full moon. He subsequently devised and performed in many elaborate solo and group shows throughout New Zealand and around the world. In true theatrical style, he professed his love for his house in Selbourne Street by marrying it. Broadhead and Schoon lived their lives in their own ways and on their own terms, something that many other locals have done before and since.
The book is full of wonderful photographs. Do you have a favourite?
Oh, there are so many. I really love the photo of the A. B. Wright and Sons’ horses (including their famous greys) loaded up with a record shipment of kapok for delivery to Tattersfield’s bed factory in Richmond Road. The horses are so beautifully turned out and it’s a sight long consigned to the past.
You have lived in Grey Lynn for over 30 years. Would you ever live anywhere else?
Having spent my childhood moving from place to place, it’s been wonderful to put down roots and become a Grey Lynner. I love living here and have no plans to move.
(DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM)
PN
Find your top spot
Whether it’s a brand new architectural feature like 56 Pollen St, or a classic character refurb, we’ve got special spaces to suit all kinds of businesses.
Retail and Office spaces available for lease now:
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WAYNE BROWN: MAYOR OF AUCKLAND
When I campaigned to become Mayor in 2022, I stood on a platform of ‘taking back control of council organisations’.
On arriving in the Mayor’s office, I was confronted with a hole in Auckland Council’s budget of $295 million which, curiously, had been hidden from ratepayers.
It took a bit of work but I came up with a plan that was supported by councillors to address this shortfall and get things back on track without imposing huge rates increases on property owners.
Now it’s time to get back on with restoring democratic accountability to the very organisations Auckland Council is supposed to run – but, in reality, has limited control over.
I refer specifically to our so-called council-controlled organisations (CCOs) – Auckland Transport, Eke Panuku and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited.
In my draft mayoral proposal for the 2025/26 annual plan, I’m doing exactly what I said I’d do – bring back democratic accountability while tackling inefficient decision-making and wasteful spending.
There are long-standing issues with the CCO model that have allowed these organisations to make decisions and spend money in a way that causes concern and confusion among those picking up the bill – ratepayers – with very limited scrutiny.
We need to make structural and cultural change to remove inefficiencies, poorly aligned strategies and strengthen democratic accountability.
This will improve public trust and confidence, cost-effectiveness and overcome the duplication of services currently funded by the ratepayer.
CCOs absorb over half of Auckland Council’s current annual operating budget of around $6.4 billion and control twothirds of the region’s publicly owned assets, valued at almost $47 billion.
They’re funded, in part, by 40 per cent of total rates. There is no plausible argument for the people elected by the public to not have proper oversight of these organisations. I’m not proposing any funding or service cuts. These structural changes are intended to make council services more responsive to the public by bringing decisions closer to elected members.
My proposal would see Auckland Transport (AT) put on a short leash while I continue positive discussions with the Government about legislation required to make the needed structural changes.
In the interim, I propose immediate steps to begin the process of taking back power from AT. These measures include a proposal for Auckland Council to assume control of AT’s back-office functions.
I’ve also proposed that Auckland Council takes responsibility for all regulatory, policy and strategic planning functions for which AT does not have a statutory role.
Eke Panuku would be disestablished, with urban regeneration and property management coming back in-house under council control.
All policy, strategy and planning functions would also return to council, with local boards having greater decision-making power over local urban amenity projects, like playgrounds and street improvements, so there is a more communityfocused approach.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited would be retained to manage regional facilities, Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland Zoo, theatres and stadiums.
But economic development, destination marketing and major events would be consolidated within council.
These are sensible changes that allow the representatives elected by the people to have proper oversight of what is happening with public funds.
Councillors will debate my proposal in December and, much like how we worked to fix the budget hole, I’m hopeful we will be able to move forward on bringing some muchneeded accountability and oversight to council organisations.
Ponsonby resident Celia Visser has won another global kitchen design award, making it a delightful double for this multi-award-winning designer.
At a gala event held at the Royal Lancaster in London last month, 650 guests from the design community worldwide came together to celebrate and showcase the best of global interior design and to reward the best designs from 2024. In front of hundreds of her peers and design colleagues, Celia was presented with a crystal trophy crafted by Czech glass specialist Sans Souci.
Celia’s winning kitchen design, ‘Hidden Gem’, fought off stiff competition from several top New Zealand designers and dozens of kitchen designers from 90 countries around the world.
The SBID International Design Awards has firmly established itself as one of the most prestigious interior design awards in the global design calendar. It attracts entries from across the world, making it truly an honour and a sign of industry recognition that is second to none for the deserving winners.
“We are so honoured and excited to receive this award for the second time. We were competing against the world’s best kitchen and interior designers within New Zealand and
globally so it is great to know that New Zealand is up with the best in the world. This is great for our company but also for our clients who put their trust in us to transform their homes.”
All category winners can be viewed online at www.sbidawards.com
CELIA VISSER KITCHENS, College Hill, M: 021 907 637, www.visserdesign.com
EQUIPOISE SKIN CLINIC AND PONSONBY HAIR:
Two Icons, One New Home! Well, nearly…
Don’t panic – we are navigating a temporary situation while we wait for our stunning new shared space to be ready.
After 27 wonderful years at 100 Jervois Road, Equipoise Skin Clinic and Spa needed a refresh. The space was no longer meeting our needs and we knew it was time for a change. Meanwhile, Ponsonby Hair at 96 Jervois Road, another iconic local gem, was also ready for a makeover.
We realised that Equipoise Skin Clinic and Spa and Ponsonby Hair are the perfect match, with many of our clients already visiting both for the ultimate pampering experience. By bringing them together under one roof, we’re creating the convenience of a one-stop-shop for all things hair and beauty – a seamless way to relax and rejuvenate and leave feeling your absolute best. But…construction delays happened.
While we eagerly await our revamped combined location at 96 Jervois Road, we’ve set up temporary pop-up spaces to keep looking after you.
Equipoise Skin Clinic and Spa is located at The Village, 102 Jervois Road. You’ll find us here Tuesday to Saturday, offering the same treatments you know and love.
· Ponsonby Hair is temporarily operating from a shared space with the kind and generous team at Chantal Landais Hair Studio, 128 Jervois Road.
The good news? Our new space is well worth the wait! We’re pulling out all the stops to create a beautiful, modern environment that combines the best of both worlds. The transformation will be complete just in time for your Christmas appointments.
Thank you so much for your patience and support during this transition. Stay tuned for updates and pop-up specials while we prepare to welcome you back to our new home. Be sure to follow us on our social pages: equipoisespa and ponsonbyhair for the latest updates and opening dates, or feel free to give us a call at T: 09 378 9696 or email us at relax@equipoisespa.co.nz with any questions or concerns.
We can’t wait to see you at 96 Jervois Road soon – bigger, better, and together!
Discover Equipoise’s New Client Experience*
At Equipoise, we’re renowned for our expert skin treatments. To celebrate new beginnings, we’re offering our New Client Experience, valued at $179, for just $99.
Offer Details:
Conditions: Available for new clients only
Offer Valid Until: March 31, 2025
Book your appointment today and let Equipoise help you unlock your skin's full potential, simply mention that you saw this offer in the Ponsonby News!*
HERNE BAY RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (HBRA) SAYS…
A recent Environment Court (EC) decision has threatened thousands of 'Special Character Homes' in our local areas by allowing owners to demolish their houses without input from the community.
Known as the 'Crescent Road, Epsom decision', the Court’s ruling in July opened the door to owners of these Character Homes to by-pass notifying neighbours and the wider community of their intentions, to demolish them and potentially rebuild houses that are vastly different from their neighbours’ historic homes.
In Auckland, under the Unitary Plan, there are 50 'Special Character Areas (SCA’s)' that encompass a broad variety of eras, styles, materials and building uses from the city’s history, covering a total of 23,337 properties. SCA’s are an overlay mechanism used by Auckland Council to 'retain and manage' specific demarcated areas of the city’s special character. Auckland’s Unitary Plan clarifies Special Character as “collective and cohesive values, importance, relevance and interest” embodied by specific neighbourhoods in the city.
Auckland’s Special Character houses have been labelled “unrivalled in the world in scale and quality” by an Auckland University researcher.
They cover an area of 14.8km, but occupy under 2.6% of the city’s urbanised area and only 0.3% of the Auckland Unitary Council’s total land area. A total of 471 of these homes are located in Herne Bay.
A Worrying Precedent
The EC decision gave consent to demolish a 1920s bungalow in Crescent Road Epsom, in original condition, and replace it with a new house, creating a precedent that can be used by others in Special Character Areas (SCA’s) to demolish their original houses. The Court also encouraged the council to allow this without notification to neighbours. The application to demolish the Crescent Road house had been notified and was opposed by 18 local residents and a number of heritage organisations.
Despite ranking 6/6 on a recent Auckland Council survey of SCA’s, the Environment Court stated that “the contribution this (Epsom) property makes to the special character of this area is modest.”
Leading the fight against the decision is the Character Coalition, a group of organisations with the aim of protecting and enhancing the character and heritage of Auckland and to engage with community groups on how to best recognise, protect and enhance character and heritage.
Of major concern to the Coalition is the precedent that Auckland Council will take the Crescent Road decision as a green light to deal with all future applications to demolish houses in the SCA’s on a non-notified basis and grant them.
Says the Coalition: “The first the people in an SCA will know about it is when the wreckers arrive and demolition begins. The eventual result will be the destruction of our SCA’s from ‘death by a thousand cuts'.
The Coalition is attempting to raise $50,000 to fight the Crescent Road decision in an appeal that is expected to be
The Crescent Road house - photography NZ Herald
heard on March 11, 2025. It has received advice from its counsel, Bronwyn Curruthers KC, that there were a number of errors in law in the EC decision. The Coalition has set up a 'Give a little’ page to help with the appeal funding. Contributions can be made through Give a little or directly to the Society’s bank account No 38-9018-0149322.
Auckland Unrivalled in Scale and Quality
A report by post-graduate Auckland University Student Joshua Howie (Masters in Architecture and Heritage Conservation) on Auckland’s Special Character Areas, found that Auckland was unrivalled in “the scale and consistency of its areas of ornate timber colonial architecture” even when compared to Brisbane and Melbourne, cities known for their heritage buildings.
He said: “Furthermore, this architecture and its streetscapes are in and of themselves endemic to Auckland, entirely unique globally, making Auckland’s Special Character Areas a taonga.
“Auckland’s Special Character Areas encompass a rare gem in global urbanism, a taonga – a collection of documented and protected timber architecture from the 19th and 20th Centuries "unrivalled world-wide in scale and quality."
Economic and Social Benefits
The Special Character Areas have been consistently found to positively impact both property values and sale prices. Studies have proven that houses located within the SCA’s had a 4.3% price premium over non-SCA houses sold in Auckland over a 10-year period in the mid 2000s, suggesting that the Special Character amenity and its preservation were attractive for home buyers.
A specific study on properties found that SCA-designated houses in Freemans Bay and Onehunga to be 33% and 9% greater in value respectively than their respective nondesignated counterparts.
A London study found that "green and peaceful residential environments" to be a desirable feature consistently listed by residents in every conservation area the study undertook “no matter their location, level of deprivation or property premium.”
Renovations Are No Problem
Although all repair or renovation work to the Special Character homes needs a Resource Consent, Auckland Council reports that 99.9% of consents are approved, but many with revisions that ensure the Special Character is retained.
The Coalition says that renovations are not really a concern as they are generally to the rear of the properties (to add bedrooms, decks, updated kitchens and bathrooms and the like) and sometimes can improve the character of the area by restoring features that have been removed or replacing previous “unsympathetic” modifications.
The Threat from PC 78 (Intensification)
This Plan Change that proposes to intensify inner city suburbs, particularly St Marys Bay, may have a major impact on Character Areas. PC 78 proposes to reduce the number of homes in SCA’s from the current 23,337 to about 14,000. There is no date sent down for hearings yet, but this removal of their SCA protection will definitely be fought hard by those in Special Character areas, especially those who have gone
to the trouble and expense of ensuring until now that changes to their properties have been in keeping with the character of their area.
www.hernebay1011.nz
MIKE LEE:
THE GENTRIFICATION OF WESTERN SPRINGS
Council evicts Speedway – Ponsonby Rugby to follow?
Those readers who follow local government reasonably closely will be aware of the public ceremonies held at the start of the council term in which newly elected members are sworn into office.
The oath is set out in schedule 7 of the Local Government Act.
"I, - declare that I will faithfully and impartially, and according to the best of my skill and judgement, execute and perform, the best interests of (Auckland) the powers, authorities, and duties vested in, or imposed upon, me as (mayor, chairperson or member) of the (local authority) by virtue of the Local Government Act 2002, the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 or any other Act."
As the Auckland Council Governance Manual intones: “All elected members must make an oral declaration when taking office. This public declaration signals the high standards to which elected members are to be held. They are charged with making decisions in the best interests of the entire community, being the whole Auckland region for Governing Body members and the whole local board area for local board members.”
While it is usual nowadays for many to read the oath in te reo and often again in English, the problem is from what I have seen, in whatever language the oath is sworn, and how many times, too many local politicians appear not to understand or perhaps care about what they are swearing to.
I thought about this during the recent debate over the plans by the CCO ‘Tataki - Auckland Unlimited’ to evict Speedway from Western Springs Stadium where it has been a passionately followed, much-loved fixture for 95 years. One of the most important “duties vested in, or imposed upon” a councillor is the obligation to make decisions within the requirements set out in the Local Government Act. Part 6, dealing with ‘Decision-making’ states that councillors for instance “must… seek to identify all reasonable practicable options”; assess the "benefits and costs of each option"… "give consideration to the views and preferences of persons likely to be affected by, or to have and in interest in, the matter” and so on. And then the Act moves on to ‘consultation’ – the requirements of which routinely receive only lip service nowadays. Whether it’s selling the public’s shareholding in Auckland International Airport or the Downtown Car Park Building, council’s key decisions are all-too-often predetermined. Consultation, if it happens at all, is the familiar charade of ‘Have your say…and the council has its way.'
Returning to Western Springs and the decision to shunt Speedway out to Waikaraka Park, in my opinion neither Tataki - Auckland Unlimited (TAU), nor the council complied in any meaningful way with the mandatory decision-making requirements of the Act.
So what’s behind this? Well, this unfortunately was not disclosed. All we know from the agenda report is that TAU is seeking a ‘higher and better purpose’ for Western Springs. But from news media gossip we learn that TAU is talking to an American billionaire and local rich-listers about a new soccer club taking up residence at Western Springs.
Clearly also not included in TAU’s elitist-sounding ‘higher and better’ objectives is the Ponsonby Rugby Club which has been told its lease at Western Springs Stadium will not be renewed when it runs out in 2027.
Ponsonby Rugby Club is an Auckland icon. Founded in 1874 it is one of the oldest and biggest grassroots clubs in NZ, producing more All Blacks and Black Ferns than any other. It presently has 11 senior teams, five women’s teams, including the premier ‘fillies’ and, perhaps most importantly, 45 junior teams.
And yet, just like those Aucklanders wanting to keep Speedway at Western Springs. Ponsonby Rugby representatives, led by life-member Sir Bryan Williams, were effectively blocked from addressing the councillors.
My colleague Cr John Watson, an accomplished sportsman himself, is scathing about TAU. Charging it with clear conflicts of interest. "The recent storm and flooding damage at Western Springs Stadium (January 2023) has been used to undermine Speedway at Western Springs. It can be argued that remediation work for Speedway and Ponsonby Rugby has been delayed and manipulated to push Speedway and Ponsonby Rugby out."
What sort of decision-making process is it when predetermination, haste, failing to disclose full information and strong-arm tactics are used, and where the views of Aucklanders with a long and passionate interest in the outcome are shut out? Disappointingly, the decision to evict Speedway was carried by 11 votes to 8 (Mayor Brown and City Vision in support). The decision was one thing; how it was reached is in some ways even more concerning.
(MIKE LEE) PN
www.mikelee.co.nz
Waitematā & Gulf Ward city component, as established by the Local Government Commission – elegantly balanced –almost an island.
All Black rugby great, Sir Bryan (B.G.) Williams with the future of Ponsonby Rugby Club, members of the under 6 team. At left coach Steve Livesay.
THE EVOLUTION OF PARIS BUTTER
As in all team pursuits, when it ‘clicks’, everyone in the team just knows.
A winning aura develops and competitors certainly feel your presence. It feels that way at Paris Butter in Herne Bay. Founded in 2016 by Chef Nick Honeyman and his partner Sina Honeyman, Paris Butter originally started in the style of a French bistro. After a couple of years, however, they really felt that their heart was in fine dining. Chef Zennon Wijlens joined the team in 2019 and Nick and Zennon just clicked. Their shared love for food and travel gave them inspiration to create dishes that brought back the memories of the amazing locations and cuisine they encountered around the world. Zennon bought into Paris Butter in 2022 and assumed the role of Executive Chef. By now, the menu and the restaurant were really evolving into a unique and exceptional establishment. Having worked at legendary places in Oz such as Tetzuya and Momofuku, Zennon felt that Paris Butter no longer needed to follow the path of a single cuisine or culture. Just like any great artist, he was classically French trained, Escoffier was and still is here, but with his numerous global experiences, no ingredient or style was ‘off the table’.
The team grew I imagine in the way that a great jazz melody just ‘becomes’. Zennon brought in Head Chef Zac Duxfield. On fine wines and beverages the super talented and close friend of mine, Ben Carmine. In ops and management, Catherine George. The team just vibed. A shared passion, ethos and spirit combined with talent to make ‘PB’ what it is today. When you visit, simply leave your taste buds in their capable hands, you will be transported.
Oh, and what a delicious and sumptuous affair. Zennon with a big smile plates his spring desert. A blackberry sorbet moulded as perfectly formed blackberries and olive oil jelly and ice cream, white chocolate with fig leaf oil. Fresh and sweet. As you savour you are transported to country lanes lined with hedgerows, surrounded by the songs of skylarks and sparrows, imbued with blue skies, the odd cloud and endless days filled equally with purpose and leisure. Life is blooming, eternal, that oh so blissful place with such minimal awareness that the corner is approaching and the end of the road is nigh.
In such a place the only drink is a quality rosé – The 2023 144 Islands Coco Maeve Rosé, made from syrah and viognier, the wine is named after owner Jake Dromgool’s youngest daughter, Coco Maeve. It is a Tavel and Bandol-inspired dry rosé, made with fruit purposefully designated for a wine of
The World’s Greatest Vineyards
this style... “Our daughter Coco is undeniably independent and full of character and in light of this, we have sought to make a rosé which stands out on its own merits as a beautiful fine wine.”
And so I raise a toast, “To our beautiful children and intoxicating springs. May your life spring eternal.”
(PUNEET DHALL) PN
@puneetofponsonby
144 Islands 2023 ‘Coco Maeve’ Rosé
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
144 Is o
“"Ripper Rosé" - Mostly syrah with viognier and mourvèdre. The blend has produced a bone-dry and perfectly balanced wine that can be enjoyed with or without food. Deliciously accessible now with floral and summer berry flavours.”
“"Ripp The b wine t e acces e
Bob C
Bob Campbell MW, 94 Points
GAEL BALDOCK: HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS
To paraphrase Norman Kirk, people need somewhere to live, food to eat, clothing to wear and something to hope for.
Water and housing are the ‘new gold’ and homes are profitmaking commodities.
What does ‘home’ mean to you? Do you flit from house to house or do you grow deep roots in a particular piece of soil connecting you to your community? I advocate for this community to protect my ‘home’.
If you ask people to draw home in a simple outline in less than a minute, most will draw the classic ‘Playschool’ house with smoke out the chimney. Some will include stick-figure family and pets. I’d draw that house behind a wall of roses with a giraffe peeking over the top, my ‘Snael’ car and my cat, Jasper.
Our city is full of vulnerable people without a roof over their heads, partly from the closing of mental institutions. Auckland has 100,000 empty ‘ghost houses', and one of the worst offenders is Kainga Ora. Rather than being landlords, leaving properties vacant, profit making from housing as a commodity.
10 years ago, I started advocating for state housing by supporting state house tenants in Glen Innes being evicted. They were ‘guinea pigs’ in this failed ‘social/public’ housing rebuild experiment. The first 156 tenancies given 90-day notices resulted in at least 20 deaths. Understandably, elderly people being given three months to move from the only ‘home’ they have known, took its toll. I have been asking politicians for a coroner’s enquiry since 2015 but they have conveniently turned a ‘blind eye’, protecting profits of their campaign funders.
I understood their attachment to their homes because my father always said the only way he was ever going to leave his home was in a box, and he got his way. When Dad came home from the war, like other veterans he was offered a state house for life on 1/5 of his income or a cheap ‘State Advances Loan’ to build his own home. He chose the latter.
The successful experiment of state houses ‘pepper potted’ amongst the general population in Ponsonby, Grey Lynn and Westmere is how we got our desirable character. Unfortunately, it's why housing prices here have exploded. Houses that cost $2800 in 1970, are now an astronomical $2,800,000. It’s out of control. Owning the quarter acre
Kiwi dream home is unaffordable for most Kiwis. A young Westmere couple bought their first home in Warkworth, being all they could afford. They’re now faced with a bleary eyed daily commute from a lack of sleep. The biggest life purchase is not the house, it’s the mortgage. Most of our banks are Aussie owned and they’re ‘laughing all the way to the bank’ at the profits they are making.
For low income people, not just families, that dream is impossible. State housing was that fall-back of not living in cars and garages. There were 21,957 applicants on the September Housing Register, 237 in the Waitematā Ward. ‘Kiwi Build’ was a failure because it started as a principle of putting young middle-class people on the property ladder instead of building homes and communities. Instead of returning HNZ into a government department, the Kainga Ora failed experiment took HNZ ‘into bed’ with developers starting with demolishing the best built houses in NZ, with at least 100 years life left in them. Relocating them out from the city or adding bedrooms for multigeneration families with small units built on the back of the sections. Instead of what has essentially been a ‘landgrab’ by developers who have replaced them with an inferior ‘dog box’ with 50-year life (if you’re lucky) then sold off 2/3 of the land with new-builds to pay for it.
Recently, I visited the Tamaki experiment. To add insult to injury, the new builds are without off-street parking. The main road has unused cycleways and ‘in-line bus stops’ blocking the traffic, instead of parking. These people can’t afford bicycles, let alone electric bikes for the whole family. They can barely afford the big old gas guzzling Holden that they all fit in. Why are we spending billions on wrecking their neighbourhoods and not giving them anywhere to park?
In Pt Chevalier, they’re building monstrous blocks of ‘shoebox’ apartments without parking, They have the hallmarks of future slums and the next round of ‘leaky buildings’. It’s already started – the Kainga Ora block by the Richmond Road supermarket has been cleared of tenants for post-flood foundation repairs.
We’re fast tracking to a city of dog-box slums and ghost houses as commodities rather than homes, pushing the very people who gave our city character further out while land grabbing state assets from people who need homes.
(GAEL BALDOCK) PN GaelB@xtra.co.nz
FINALLY, ACTION ON LEYS INSTITUTE RESTORATION
After sitting mothballed and forlorn for five years, there is positive news at last for the restoration and reopening of the Leys Institute Library and Gymnasium.
At its November meeting, the Waitematā Local Board has given the go ahead for concept plans to be fully developed and for the application of resource and building consents. This means that there is now action and a timeline for seismic strengthening works and the redevelopment of the rear of the buildings.
It’s not quite the full option that was decided on by the Project Advisory Group in 2022 and endorsed by public feedback, as it has been trimmed to meet the available budgets. However, it’s very similar and still will give the community a safe, flexible community space and library with modern facilities. The proposed timeline has 2025 for detailed plans and consents to be sought, with physical works starting early in 2026. At this stage, reopening is looking like 2028, but we hope that could be sooner.
Sadly, there is disturbing news about the present state of the buildings. Despite constant vigilance and advocacy by the community over the last five years, the buildings have been neglected and not maintained. As a consequence, there are substantial leaks in the roof, causing internal damage and hazardous mould. Urgent remedial works are about to start to clean up the mould, to reduce the moisture in the building and temporarily patch the roof.
It will be heartening for the community to see works actually happening in the buildings – we also hope the grounds will be cleaned up, along with the exterior of the buildings.
Friends of Leys Institute co-ordinator Helen Geary comments: “Finally, after five years of advocacy by our community these important heritage buildings will receive the restoration they deserve. Without the sustained public pressure from the community there might have been a different result.
“Thanks to all those Friends of Leys Institute members and others who have made submissions, written letters and appeared at Local Board meetings. Your support has kept the council focussed on these significant buildings.
“Thanks also to the Waitematā Local Board who has been behind the restoration all the way and has constantly
FRIENDS OF LEYS INSTITUTE
Helen Geary, co-ordinator helen@geary.nz M: 021 208 7490
advocated to council for the budgets to restore the Leys Institute.”
AUCKLAND: A CITY WORTH STRIVING FOR
In the two years since the 2022 elections, City Vision elected members across Waitematā, Albert-Eden and Puketāpapa local boards and Councillor Julie Fairey have worked collaboratively and constructively with council and communities to make a difference.
There have been challenges – the floods, the state of the economy and the long tail of Covid. The last five years have been hard but there is no going back: challenges will keep coming. We stand our ground on the need for climate action, emission reduction and adaptation. This means careful urban planning (close to schools and jobs, away from hazards), more trees and plants, more public and active transport and renewable energy, like solar power (which is soon being installed on the Freemans Bay Community Centre).
City Vision has successfully advocated for a growing fleet of electric buses and ferries and more public transport routes. The new 64, 65 and 67 routes are wins for crosstown movement. By leveraging off road renewals to cut costs, the safe cycle network is being joined up, making getting to work and education easier. Safe crossings and slower speeds allow kids and older people to get around independently and it's nice to sit outside a café and hear conversation and music rather than traffic (or helicopters).
We all know how much time our kids (and ourselves) are spending on screens. Everyone needs to get out and connect in real life. To this end, there are more opportunities for play and recreation, festivals and events, enhanced playgrounds in Western Springs, Point Erin and Waikōwhai, new basketball courts in Coyle Park and a new youth space in Newmarket.
Preliminary works have begun on the Leys Institute Library restoration, the Ponsonby Park civic space will be completed by winter, Studio One Toi Tū arts centre has reopened and the future of the Mount Albert Aquatics Centre is secure. We strongly support fairer funding for local services across the city. Maintaining community centres, parks and sports facilities supports health, social networks and resilience.
We work to ensure people are okay, by funding the Citizens Advice Bureau, outreach for the homeless, and community wardens to discourage crime. Julie Fairey played a key role in supporting communities after the floods, and securing government funding to recover and rebuild. After years of advocacy, we will soon launch local emergency response and readiness plans that address the needs of people who live in urban areas, including apartment dwellers.
Fairey has also led the advocacy for blue-green corridors, parks around streams that serve as buffer zones for flood
soakage to protect people’s homes. In good weather these parks serve as walking routes, hubs of biodiversity and places to play. The Te Auaunga project and Freeland Reserve present a model that will be replicated across Auckland, including Grey Lynn and in the Meola Waititiko catchment.
In addition, more trees are being planted in urban streets (as requested) and regenerative sponge gardening is being trialled in Freemans Bay Park and Western Park using garden waste to help soils retain water in drought and floods.
We are committed to reducing waste. Construction waste programmes are helping developers divert 80% of waste from landfill, the Waiōrea Community Resource and Recycling Centre has opened, and the Auckland Library of Tools has relocated to Newton Road.
Finally, communities have long advocated for better water quality in the Waitematā. The Point Erin sewer extension and water separation is underway and will significantly reduce sewage overflows onto our beaches from 2028.
Auckland is growing rapidly and there are limits to our resources but it is a great place to live. Making the shifts to ensure a good quality of life for everyone now and in the future, without costing the earth, takes time, effort and vision. But it’s worth it.
CityVision.org.nz
City Vision is made up of Labour, the Greens, and community independents.
City Vision elected members work with local volunteers planting up Meola Creek Waititiko.
March for Nature team
PONSONBY U3A: NOVEMBER 2024
The Architect and the Artists
In November, Ponsonby U3A’s guest speaker, Bridget Hackshaw treated members to a heartfelt account of the long working collaboration among three men: her father, architect James Hackshaw, painter Colin McCahon and sculptor Paul Dibble. Bridget’s subsequent book,
The Architect and the Artists: Hackshaw McCahon Dibble, provides insight into and illustration of the 12 buildings that the three worked on from 1965 to 1979. It won the Judith Binney prize for Illustrated Non-Fiction in the 2022 Ockham NZ Book Awards.
Bridget, a former English and film teacher worked in teacher education. Currently she is working with the director, Christopher Dudman to produce a film of the collaboration.
Puzzled that the collaborated work was not evident in the public domain, in 1999, Bridget interviewed her 99-yearold father in his last year of life. Shelving the notes for 20 years, she later determined that the body of work needed to be added to the public record and began to piece the story together. She combed archives and talked to others, but the richest material came from McCahon’s prolific letter writing. It gave her insight and information about what the work, namely applied-religious-contextual art, meant to him.
Bridget stepped members through each artist’s background. James Hackshaw, born in Mananui in 1926, went on to form Group Architects, designing a uniquely New Zealand style of architecture. Using natural materials, open planning and natural light, his work was mainly domestic, but he also designed many churches.
Colin McCahon was born in Timaru in 1919. Brought up as a Presbyterian, he had an epiphany as a young artist and took religious instruction from a priest. Subsequently, his religious life became very personal and non-institutional.
Paul Dibble, born in Thames in 1943, attended Elam School of Fine Arts. He was taught by McCahon and Garth Tapper. Brought up as an Anglican, he humbly referred to himself as
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34
TROUBLE WITH TOILETS AND ROUNDABOUT
Auckland Transport chose to use a letter from four Westmere Village retailers (that suited their agenda), gazump the wishes of the Mayor, nine of the 12 village retailers and the community, to keep their design of a single lane at the Meola/ Garnet roundabout. It has been the scene of four stuck trucks and countless buses have been stuck on the oversized roundabout because of the extremely narrow roads that do not appear to have considered their turning circles. (Videos on Westmere Community Facebook page.)
Despite or to spite the Mayor’s endorsement of an alternative location, backed by 150 signature petition by business owners and managers, the toilet block has been located in Mercury Lane after a four year wait for a temporary flushable public toilet with permanent toilets due to open in the CRL Stations
a ‘jobbing artist’ and was delighted to be able to work with the other two, using bronze which he could not afford himself.
At a time when the church wanted to move from its solely missionary basis to engage more openly with societal issues, Bridet’s father was engaged by Bishop Delargey, the Catholic Bishop of Auckland, to design a convent in Upland Road, Remuera. He searched for artists to depict religious symbolism for windows and to sculpt bronze tabernacles, crucifixes and candlesticks. And so began the symbiotic relationship between art and architecture.
From 1962 to 1965, their work included: House of Studies for Sisters of the Mission in Upland Road, Remuera’s Ignatius Church, St Heliers and St Patrick’s Church, Te Puke.
Bridget’s presentation was particularly poignant as U3A member, Victoria Carr, McCahon’s daughter, was also present. The bond between the two daughters was palpable.
As ten-minute speaker, Duncan Loney romped members through how to manage a building project in China, seemingly without hassles. In his lively speaking style, he described all the phases of building a factory for Bakel. All-important was building relationships, then came land purchase, working with architects on design, and then penetrating layers of officialdom to gain agreement and satisfy regulatory requirements. Interestingly, many of the regulations were designed to mitigate cheating. While there was no bribery as such, the project required provision of a cooked lunch for everyone plus a private dining room for local officials, otherwise in Duncan’s words, "things could slow down."
Ponsonby U3A welcomes newcomers. If you are interested in attending, first as a visitor, please call President Bronwen Hughes on M: 021 549 093. (CHRISTINE HART) PN
NEXT MEETING: Friday, 13 December 2024. Christmas party for members only.
FIRST 2025 MEETING: Friday 14 February.
VENUE: Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Reserve, Salisbury Street, Herne Bay
at the top and bottom of the steep hill. Again, Auckland Transport chose to listen to the BID management instead, as it suited their agenda.
I wholeheartedly endorse Mayor Wayne Brown’s plan to get rid of all these out-ofcontrol so called ‘Council Controlled Organisations' by absorbing them into the council
Gael Baldock
LISA PRAGER:
FIXING AUCKLAND UNDERWAY
Mayor Wayne Brown and I don’t always see eye to eye on every issue, in fact sometimes our views are diametrically opposed, but when it comes to disestablishing key council controlled organisations like Auckland Transport (AT) we are on the same page.
Wayne was elected in 2022 on a promise to 'Fix Auckland'. He made it sound so easy. AT was out of control with huge budget over runs, shoddy workmanship and delivery delays that frustrated everyone. Shop keepers lost essential parking, traffic calming caused deep irritation and safety became the excuse for an obstacle course of humps, bumps and hit sticks.
Wayne soon realised that a stern letter to the Tzar of AT (Dean Kimpton) wouldn’t cut it. He turned to (Phil Wilson) the CEO of Auckland Council and the elite executives occupying the top floor of the inaccessible council headquarters in Victoria Street.
These unelected officers were not used to being told what to do so opposed the Mayor’s plans, then quickly closed ranks around Wayne saying to the media that he was powerless to bring about change to enact his public promises or to stop the waste of public funds. In short they conspired to assist his demise. However, Wayne is no fool. The officials underestimated his intelligence, ability to build alliances and his rough as guts common touch. When he figured out it was the Super City legislation foisted upon Auckland by the Act Party boss Rodney Hyde over 14 years ago, he worked out a plan.
In a master stroke of conciliation, Wayne reached out to the Minister of Transport Simeon Brown. Together, they realised that legislative change was the only way to curb the unpopular and excessive spending of both AT and NZTA (New Zealand Transport Agency).
Instinctively, the Mayor knows that the public wants action, an end to the roading chaos and excessive spending. They want their local villages left alone and essential parking returned.
In the RNZ article of 19 November by Jessica Hopkins, Wayne was quoted as saying: “We need to make structural and cultural change to remove inefficiencies, poorly aligned strategies and strengthen democratic accountability. Doing so will improve public trust and confidence, cost-effectiveness and overcome the duplication of services currently funded by the ratepayer." Brown's draft Mayoral Proposal for the Auckland Council's 2025-2026 annual plan released
this month would see the council take control of Auckland Transport's back-office functions and strategic direction. This includes all communications, marketing, legal and finance functions." I was clear when I ran for mayor that I would take back control of council organisations and make them democratically accountable. Aucklanders voted for CCO reform, and they expect us to get on with the job.” Brown said.
People are desperate for change, for leadership that puts the public at the centre of social, economic and environmental prosperity. So when you hear Wayne banging on about restructuring AT, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and Eke Panuku (Auckland Property Ltd) it is a good idea!
Also set to be abolished is Eke Panuku; their involvement in urban regeneration has led to much public outrage, duplication and confusion over the motivation and accountability of many projects.
While Wayne is busy creating structural changes we need to continue the pressure on our local Waitematā Board. The Mayor’s plan will enable local boards to have greater decision-making power over urban regeneration ‘apparently’ allowing the community to have greater in put into 'local placemaking’.
The truth is that at the last local body elections, City Vision was rejected by the public, lost the popular vote, but gained total control of the Waitematā Board by ensuring the chair went to the City Vision plant masquerading as a C&R candidate. This unethical behaviour has resulted in our local democracy being skewed. City Vision led by Alex Bonham supported by Northey, Matson and Sage is deeply biased and undemocratic. I believe they all need to be voted out at the next election.
If the Wayne Brown can deliver on his election promises and fix Auckland he could easily defeat his closest opponent, Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, even though she can rock a fluro pink Chanel twin set and pearls much better than him.
Wishing you all a very happy holiday!
LISA PRAGER, Westmere PN
NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN MT ALBERT
Our Government is approaching the end of its first full year in office and I’m so proud of what we’ve delivered.
Just over a year ago, New Zealanders put their trust in us to get our country back on track. We set out to do three things: rebuild the economy, restore law and order and deliver better public services. Our achievements in each of those areas are simply too numerous to list in one column.
We’ve taken big steps to tackle inflation and support both families and businesses. Within our first 100 days we got rid of the Reserve Bank’s dual mandate, to get it solely focused on fighting inflation. We recently saw this approach bear fruit with inflation finally dropping below 3% for the first time since March 2021.
As Economic Development Minister, I’ve been able to contribute to our economic recovery through a range of my portfolio responsibilities. Last month, I announced a change to Government Procurement Rules to ensure government agencies pay their suppliers (many of whom are small to medium businesses) faster – I know the impact a promptly paid invoice can have on these businesses’ bottom line. It’s also been great to oversee major events boosting local economies around the country, such as the World Choir Games hosted here in Auckland, which contributed nearly $20 million in tourism expenditure to our economy.
Global trade is a big part of our plan to rebuild the economy –many of you have heard me talk about our goal to double the value of our exports in 10 years. It was a privilege to join the Prime Minister’s trade mission to Malaysia and South Korea this year, two countries I have an intimate knowledge of. This was followed up with my hosting of the inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium, which explored the ways in which New Zealand’s ethnic communities and businesses can contribute to our economic growth.
The end of the year brings many milestones. For many senior school students, December means not only the end of another school year but also the end of their entire schooling journey; the culmination of years of hard work. Congratulations to all the students who are leaving school this year, particularly those picking up awards at prizegiving. It was a pleasure to attend Mount Albert Grammar School’s prizegiving ceremony and celebrate the school’s top achievers, including Duxes Ryan Shen and Ciara Anand, and Proxime Accessits Jacob Miller and Rose Leader.
Education is a big passion of mine given its transformative influence on our young people. It’s been great to see our Government’s initiatives – such as the cellphone ban, structured literacy and our ‘Make it Count’ maths action plan which will help our children reach their full potential at school and set them up for future success.
I want to give a quick shout out and welcome to Eric, my new staff member who recently started in my Auckland office. Eric is learning lots about the role and is happy to help with a range of issues, so next time you drop by my office, please say hi to Eric.
Lastly, I want to sign off for the year by saying a big thank you to everyone in Mt Albert and around Auckland I’ve spoken to this year. Whether you’ve come to see me at my office, joined one of my regular morning teas or simply stopped to have a
chat at a local event, engaging with our fantastic community will always be my favourite part of my job.
I hope you all have a safe and happy holiday season, and I’ll see you in 2025 for another busy year of delivering real results for New Zealand!
Until next time, (HON MELISSA LEE) PN National List MP based in Mt Albert Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington M.Lee@Ministers.govt.nz
THE ABUSE THAT HAPPENED IN CARE
On 12 November 2024, Parliament gathered to apologise to those who were tortured, sexually, physically and psychologically abused while in the care of the State between 1950 and 1999.
This abuse also happened in faith-based organisations charged with this responsibility by the State.
The Royal Commission began to investigate in 1998 and heard from 3000 survivors. This took five years. I have only read parts of the report because it comprises many volumes and it is harrowing. It records unimaginable stories of abuse. I relay only one story here.
In 1977, a youth programme or 'Boot Camp' was started on Aotea, Great Barrier Island founded by the Department of Māori Affairs. It deliberately isolated children and emphasised military discipline. Staff estimated 80% of the children sent were Māori. The children were between 12 and 16 years old. The ‘carers' had guns and some used them to sexually assault children. Sexual and physical abuse were habitually used as punishment. The State funded the programme until 2004 but failed to monitor or safeguard the children sent to the camp. It ignored repeated disclosures by victims of abuse.
The Royal Commission of Inquiry document – Boot Camp: Te Whakapakari Youth Programme – A case study of StateFunded violence and abuse of children and young people needing care and protection, states:
“Research demonstrates that ‘boot camps’ and other harsh ‘short sharp shock’ interventions for youth are ineffective at reducing repeat offending. In 1983, before Whakapakari was approved as a provider of State care, Department of Justice research found that 71 percent of young people reoffended within 12 months of release. In 1988, reconviction rates of young offenders in these settings were 92 percent, the highest of any sentence in that year. This was finally recognised by the Department of Child, Youth and Family in 2004 when it ceased funding of Te Whakapakari Youth Trust, citing research that ‘boot camp’ type environments do not effect positive change, especially to reduce reoffending.”
All governments over this long period must accept they failed these children and thousands of others. We caused immeasurable harm and suicides, addiction and higher imprisonment has been directly related to this abuse in State and Faith-based care.
The Labour Party sincerely apologised for its part in this. I am involved as Associate Justice spokesperson along with other MPs in digesting the report and learning lessons. I take that responsibility very seriously. If any constituent wishes to reach out, please contact my office.
I am incredibly sad to hear that Nikki Kaye has passed away. I got to know her when I stood for the Auckland Central Seat. I was impressed by her political spectrum. I remember calling her cancer “gnarly”, which was understated to say the least but typical of her approach to adversity. I will miss her. I want to extend my earnest sympathy to her whanau.
(HELEN WHITE) PN
Email mtalberteco@parliament.govt.nz or phone
T: 09 845 1919.
For more info: www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/survivorsof-abuse-in-care-carry-thousands-of-ribbons-to-
Standing next to ribbons carried to Parliament by survivors of abuse in care to represent those who could not attend in person.
CHLÖE SWARBRICK: CO-LEADER OF THE GREEN PARTY AND MP FOR AUCKLAND CENTRAL
As this issue of Ponsonby News goes to print, we have just received news about the passing of Hon. Nikki Kaye. Only a fewweeksago,weweretextingaboutsupportingambulance services on Aotea Great Barrier Island and we had been in frequent contact over the past few years about everything Auckland Central. She always made time and time again for peopleandputintheworktosupportthem.Shesetthebarfor what it meant to be an electorate MP and her legacy is one that centres the communities politicians serve, and values over partisanship, is especially worthy of crucial reflection right now. Moe mai rā, Nikki. We will miss you.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi is an incredible gift. It tells us so much about who we are, how we got here and what we can be if we treat each other and our planet well.
Aotearoa New Zealand is a deeply special place. What differentiates us from the rest of the world on the international stage is, proudly, unashamedly, celebratedly, Te Ao Māori. Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei’s waka escorted Team New Zealand’s yacht to the start line at the America’s Cup and our All Blacks perform Ngāti Toa’s Ka Mate haka, composed back in 1820, 20 years before Te Tiriti was signed, both to immense international acclaim and national pride.
These are our collective taonga. But their rightful place in the spotlight cannot be taken for granted.
When the British Crown signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi, promising to look after its own subjects in peaceful cohabitation with Māori sovereignty (Tino Rangatiratanga), Māori outnumbered Pākehā 40 to one. The rest, unfortunately, is history, as the agreement was blatantly, violently dishonoured and the Crown stole land, language and culture.
Where we are today is a heroic story of resilience and revitalisation. Mainstream knowledge and use of te reo didn’t just happen. The survival of haka and waiata and the stories of this land are the direct result of staunch resistance in the face of attempts to completely annihilate what we now hold dear.
Tens of thousands of us marched across the Harbour Bridge in mid November, tracing the steps of those who peacefully protested during the foreshore and seabed debate 20 years earlier. The Toitū Te Tiriti hīkoi has managed to galvanise and inspire the best of us. I see and feel and hear a country more
unified and clear on who we are and who we want to be than I’ve ever felt in my lifetime. I was proud to march alongside the tens of thousands honouring Te Tiriti of Waitangi, many of whom were familiar faces from around the electorate.
Mana whenua, teachers from our local schools and people of all backgrounds and ages marched together from Onepoto Domain over the Harbour Bridge which swayed with the sense of purpose and unity that held us all together.
Politics – power to make the decisions about our neighbourhoods, where our shared resources go and whose stories are heard and represented – belong to those who turn up. And no one makes those changes alone.
Everything meaningful that I’ve managed to achieve in my time as your local representative hasn’t been a one-person feat. Our campaign to save the St James took three years, on top of several years worth of work from many others. Expanding support for Māori Wardens and community patrols in the city centre took resolute collaboration between local and central government officials and elected representatives, businesses and residents. We are what we do. The standards we walk past are the standards we accept.
Many of us have been buoyed by the hope of the hīkoi, uniting tangata whenua and tangata tiriti. One of the many strengths of Auckland Central is our empathy and our care for each other.
I would like to acknowledge those who will work tirelessly over the holiday season to ensure we all stay safe. I hope you all have the opportunity to get out and enjoy the very best of what our electorate has to offer – our beautiful beaches, parks and local businesses that make Auckland Central what it is.
As your proud local MP, my electorate team and I are at the service of everyone in our community regardless of political persuasion and it has been our privilege to have assisted so many of you over the course of the last year. Here's to more good things for Auckland Central in 2025!
Chlöe Swarbrick attending the Toitū Te Tiriti hīkoi at Takaparawhau / Bastion Point.
KNOW THE GROUND BEFORE YOU DIG DOWN!
At Vector, we often see gas leaks caused by builders and homeowner DIY projects accidentally damaging gas pipelines. This can increase the risk of explosion and serious injury.
Before you do any digging, always check the site plans. You can obtain your free plans from BeforeUDig.co.nz –either register on the website or call 0800 248 344 to request the underground plans for your site.
Remember, while site maps are kept up-to-date, factors like road changes or property boundary shifts can affect their accuracy. Always proceed with caution.
Even if consent isn’t required, follow WorkSafe’s excavation safety guidelines. Use approved techniques to pothole and
expose pipes, and always hand dig to confirm their exact location.
Never rely solely on marker tape, as it may not be present. By taking these steps, you can ensure the safety of your project, your home and everyone involved.
Always check the plans and dig with care.
www.beforeudig.co.nz
Shop online at www.ligne.nz
*Ligne Roset Auckland’s Outdoor Clearance Sale ends Saturday 14 December 2024, while stock lasts.
KEN RING: WEATHER BY THE MOON AUCKLAND WEATHER DIARY, DECEMBER 2024
December rain may be below average, but with less sunshine. Temperatures may be normal. The first week is the cloudiest, but the second week may be wettest with the lowest pressures. The third week improves and the fourth week is the driest, sunniest and brings the highest pressures. These include Christmas and Boxing Days. Then the last days of the month deteriorate. The best weekend for outdoor activities may be the 14th/15th. The barometer may average around 1016mbs for the month.
For fishermen, the highest tide is on the 16th. The best fishing bite times in the east may be around dusk of the 1st-2nd, 14th-16th, and 28th-31st. Bite chances are also good around lunchtimes of the 7th-8th, and 22nd-24th.
For gardeners, planting is best on the 2nd (waxing moon ascending), but it is not a good month for pruning. For preserving and longer shelf-life, harvest crops or flowers around the neap tides of the 10th and 24th.
My guide to summer:
All three summer months (December, January and February) may be drier than average for Auckland. There could be an odd shower every seven days, with heavier falls in the second
and third week of February. For holiday weather, look to the fourth week in December, the last week in January, and the first and last weeks of February. The best weekends for outdoor activities may be the 14-15 December, 4-5 January and 1-2 February.
For future weather for any date, and the 2025 NZ Weather Almanacs, see www.predictweather.com (KEN RING) PN
Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News.
@ LEYS LITTLE LIBRARY
And here we are, summertime and the end of the year. Hopefully, you will have some time to rest and relax – read a book under a tree in Western Park, perhaps.
Kids’ Holiday Activities
Over the summer school holidays, Leys Grey Lynn and Parnell are jointly running a kids’ story writing contest, Waitematā’s Korero Paki. The contest runs from December 16 through to January 28. There are two age divisions – 5-7 and 8-12, and two categories: Best Story and Best Illustrated Story. We want the contest to be fun and haven’t placed too many restrictions, for instance there is no word count or specific theme. Here at Leys, we will run a workshop to help kids with their stories and illustrations on Monday January 13. Parnell has a similar workshop for January 9 and, at the time of writing, Grey Lynn has yet to confirm the date of its workshop. Contact us for more information.
Raumati Reads
Auckland Council Libraries' Summer Reading Programme, Raumati Reads, is for kids aged 5-10 yrs. The actual programme kicks off December 16. You will need to register your kids and there is a pick up pack, with fun activities, including a reading bingo board. Raumati Reads encourages kids to read every day so their competency doesn’t drop off over the break. The event finishes 26 January 2025.
Mere Kirihimete from everyone at Leys and me, Sarah-Jane Leys Institute Little Library, 14 Jervois Road, T: 09 377 0209
Grey Lynn 100th
Grey Lynn Library turns 100 this month and you’re invited to the birthday bash!
Celebrations open at 10am on Saturday 14 December, with speeches at 10.30am and a whole lot more that the library users of 1924 might never have imagined.
Facepainting, a preschoolers’ story session, a clown, family friendly disco and festive craft-making are on the programme, which runs to 1pm.
For safety reasons, the library carpark will be closed until activities finish, except for three disability designated spaces between the library and Great North Road.
It’s the busy season, but on this day the library offers a welcome break from retail madness, plus free fun for the kids.
Grey Lynn Library, 474 Great North Road, had its official opening on a Saturday, chosen specifically so workers could attend. The building, including a lecture hall, was designed by William Henry Gummer. With partner Charles Reginald Ford, he formed what became one of the 20th Century’s most prominent New Zealand architectural practices.
Among the best-loved constructions associated with Gummer are the Domain Wintergardens, the grand old Auckland Railway Station, Christchurch’s Bridge of Remembrance and another haven for books, the Remuera Library.
Hours Monday - Friday 9am-6pm. Saturday 9am-4pm. Sunday Closed. We are open every day (usual hours) except for the stats (and of course Sundays) during the Christmas/ New Year break.
LEYS INSTITUTE LITTLE LIBRARY, 14 Jervois Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz
PLAN AHEAD TODAY FOR PEACE OF MIND TOMORROW
Marie and Ken had been married for 10 years and both had adult children from previous marriages.
They were now heading towards retirement and had decided to downsize. It wasn’t so much the size of the house, as the size of the grounds that was concerning them. They were also keen to travel a lot more and really wanted something that was a ‘lock and leave'. They put their home on the market and signed up for a town house which had been recently completed. They were excited to be moving to the next stage of their life together.
Three weeks before their settlement date for the sale of their property and purchase of the new one, Marie suffered a massive stroke. She was immediately admitted to hospital. She was all but unresponsive and while the doctors were confident that she would survive, they were not happy with the impact on her cognitive abilities.
Ken was beside himself, not just because of Marie’s condition, but also because of the impending move. He called the lawyer who was acting on the conveyancing to let him know of Marie’s stroke. The lawyer’s first question was as to Marie’s capacity to sign the necessary documentation relating to the sale and purchase. Ken told him that there was no way that Marie would be able to sign anything, but he would still be able to go into the lawyer’s office and sign what needed to be signed.
The lawyer told Ken that unfortunately it didn’t work quite like that, that he could only sign on Marie’s behalf if he had been appointed her power of attorney. Ken knew that was not the case. He did remember that their previous lawyer had briefly mentioned enduring powers of attorney to them at one stage, but Marie and Ken had thought that they would think more about that when they had retired. They had
thought it was more something for elderly people who were starting to lose capacity.
The lawyer said that as Marie didn’t have powers of attorney in place, an application to the court would need to be made to appoint Ken as Marie’s property manager so he could sign the documents for the sale and purchase. He explained that this was not a straightforward process given their family dynamics. If Ken wished to apply, he would need to get the consent of Marie’s adult children, and they would need to have the opportunity to take their own legal advice. He also explained that the Court would appoint a lawyer to act for Marie and that sometimes the process could be easy and other times it could be complex. Because the Courts were so busy, it also could be a few weeks before a judge would even look at the application and it would most likely be looked at after their settlement date.
The process of applying for Ken to be Marie’s property manager ended up being slow and expensive. Not only was the application itself expensive, but because it didn’t happen before settlement date, Ken ended up paying penalty interest on both the sale and the purchase.
Enduring powers of attorney is one of the most important legal documents you can have. If you lose capacity without these in place, then someone has to make an application to the Court to be able act on your behalf, regardless of whether you are married, in a relationship or own property jointly. This process can become even more expensive and convoluted depending on your family’s circumstances. As well as the enduring power of attorney relation to property, there is also one relating to your health and welfare, where you can appoint someone to make decisions about these things if you are not capable of making these decisions yourself.
I recommend that all my clients take the time to put these arrangements in place now, no matter their age or life stage. It’s a decision today that could make all the difference tomorrow.
Do You Have An Enduring Power Of Attorney?
The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.
If you have a will, but not assigned anyone to act as your Enduring Power of Attorney, you could inadvertently be putting your assets at risk.
An Enduring Power of Attorney will look after both your property and personal care and welfare should you become incapacitated to make your own decisions while you’re still alive.
If you have not put in place an Enduring Power of Attorney, contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist advice.
JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES: LAND TRANSACTIONS – DO I HAVE TO PAY TAX IF I SUBDIVIDE?
(Part B of a two-part article)
Further to the last article on land transactions (and the taxation criteria relating to land or property sales), this month we are looking closely at subdivisions.
Developments or subdivisions begun within 10 years
Often people are involved in subdividing (ie, main home or existing investment property). Whether that subdivision constitutes a taxable activity is subjective.
There may not be an intention or have what constitutes a business, but the sale can still be captured for tax under other provisions such as:
1. an undertaking or scheme is carried on (not necessarily as a business),
2. the undertaking or scheme involves the development of the land or the division of the land into lots,
3. the person, or another person on their behalf, carries on the development or division work on or in relation to the land,
4. the development or division work is not minor, and
5. the undertaking or scheme commenced within 10 years of acquisition of the land.
Subdivisions can be tricky, and they can catch you out when you assume that because you are just subdividing a section/s from your family home, any profit from the sale of those sections shouldn’t be taxable.
Undertaking a subdivision project where the activity is carried on continuously or regularly, and/or the works involved are not minor, may result in your sale being taxable.
What does it mean if the work involved is ‘not minor’?
Tax law has a number of grey areas and this is another one! It has caused many tax disputes over decades – the landowner arguing that the subdivision work is straightforward and minor, while Inland Revenue arguing that the subdivision work is more than minor, and tax should be paid on the resulting gain.
The safe harbour threshold
A few years ago, Inland Revenue released an interpretation statement on this issue and included a safe harbour threshold of $50,000. If the subdivision costs do not exceed $50,000 and the costs are under 5% of the value of the land, it will be accepted as minor works on a subdivision.
Both measures of cost must be considered, as it’s possible for cost to be low in absolute terms but high in relative terms and vice versa.
Definitions of ‘Subdivision Costs’
Development work typically includes fencing, demolishing buildings, site clearing, earthmoving, installation of services, creating driveways, legal work, zoning applications, drafting engineering plans, and entering contracts for physical development work. It excludes the erecting of buildings.
Divisional work includes planning and preparation of formal plans, survey work, obtaining of consents and permits, legal work including the deposit of subdivisional plans and the issuing of separate titles.
Because of the need to look at the question in both absolute and relative terms, taxpayers seeking to argue that their schemes are minor will need to seek valuations of their land, prior to the schemes being commenced. This is so that costs can be measured against the value of land in order to satisfy the relative safe harbour test.
Subdivisions – requirement to register for GST GST can also become a problem when undertaking a subdivision and is often overlooked by many people. For the work to be subject to GST, it needs to be carried on ‘continuously and regularly’.
There are two steps to consider:
1. The number of lots created, and 2. The level of activity involved in the subdivision project (ie, development work).
In summary:
A taxpayer must register for GST if annual turnover (from taxable supplies): Was over $60,000 in the last 12 months, or Is expected to exceed $60,000 in the next 12 months.
Taxable supplies result from the business of buying, selling, developing or building residential or commercial properties.
Subdividing on any scale is complex, and we recommend if you are looking to subdivide, or purchase to subdivide, call us to talk you through your options regarding taxation exposure.
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.
VOLUNTEER BUSINESS MENTORS OFFER BUSINESS OWNERS A POWERFUL EDGE
As Ponsonby, Newmarket and Parnell’s independent boutiques, bustling cafés and creative businesses prepare for a lively holiday season, local business owners face both exciting opportunities and unique challenges.
The holiday rush brings an influx of customers and increased demand, but it also puts pressure on logistics, staffing and customer engagement efforts. For many, this season is as rewarding as it is demanding, and the insights of an experienced volunteer Business Mentor can make all the difference.
Sarah Trotman, ONZM, CEO of Business Mentors NZ says, “Having a Business Mentor is about accessing real-world experience, strategic insights and guidance on growth. A mentor offers an objective, supportive perspective and practical solutions that can be especially valuable during busy times.”
For retail and hospitality sectors where resources are often tight, having a mentor who’s been through similar experiences brings a valuable perspective. Mentors help owners avoid common pitfalls, make strategic decisions and maximise seasonal opportunities.
Business Mentors New Zealand connects business owners with seasoned business people to help them succeed and navigate challenges. Business Mentors understand what it takes to run a small business and have the skills to help owners navigate challenges. A Business Mentor brings hands-on knowledge of issues like customer engagement, operational efficiency and brand building – insights that can transform how owners approach the holiday season and beyond.
Customer experience, for example, is increasingly vital in today’s market. Shoppers are drawn to personalised, memorable interactions, especially during the holiday season when competition is high. A mentor can help business owners refine their in-store and online engagement strategies to build loyalty and drive repeat visits, which in turn can lead to wordof-mouth referrals. Similarly, mentors can bring guidance on planning promotions, managing stock levels and selecting pricing strategies – all essential for balancing customer demand with revenue goals. With their experienced backgrounds in
business, Business Mentors help owners make decisions that strengthen revenue while reducing waste, setting them up for both short-term success and long-term sustainability.
The holiday period is also a time of added stress for many business owners. Business Mentors can provide stressmanagement techniques and recommend scheduling adjustments or support systems to safeguard the wellbeing of the owner and their team. While the holiday season is a focal point, the strategies mentors help put in place can extend far beyond the holidays, equipping local businesses with practices that foster growth year-round.
To further support the local small business community, BMNZ offers the chance to win up to 12 months of mentorship to one lucky business owner (registration is usually $295 +GST).
To enter go to businessmentors.org.nz and email Business Mentors NZ to share how a Mentor could benefit your business.
Don’t miss the chance to work with a mentor who can help you shape your future vision, build resilience and plan with renewed confidence.
Mentorship is an investment in sustainable growth. A trusted mentor provides insights and guidance that can empower business owners to navigate not just the holiday rush, but whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead. Whether looking to strengthen customer connections, improve operations or simply find a reliable sounding board, Business Mentors are here to help Ponsonby business owners thrive through every season.
To learn more about how mentorship can make a difference visit www.businessmentors.org.nz or call 0800 209 209.
FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET
Grace Huen can be found at Grey Lynn Farmers Market selling her dumpling kits.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up and spent most of my childhood in Auckland. My parents moved here from Hong Kong when I was four.
Does Auckland feel like home to you now?
For me, home isn't just a place – it's where the people I love and care about are. My parents are here and I’m now raising my own family here in Auckland.
What did you study at university?
I studied Mechanical Engineering and was particularly drawn to sustainable product design. The idea of creating solutions that minimize environmental impact really inspired me. Then the pull of entrepreneurship led me to working closely with startups at Callaghan Innovation.
How did that lead you to start a dumpling kit business?
I wanted to create something meaningful that aligned with my personal values – sustainability, ethical practices and a positive impact on both the environment and people’s health. And it had to be something that I was passionate about.
Why did you choose dumplings?
I love dumplings. They have always been a comfort food for me and they symbolise ‘home'. Growing up, my mum and I made dumplings together for the Lunar New Year and other cultural festivities. I wanted to re-create this experience and make it accessible for others to enjoy with their loved ones. Whether it's families to create their own memories, connecting with culture, teaching kids a new skill or simply enjoying time together.
What makes your dumplings different from others?
Growing up in New Zealand has exposed me to a broader range of tastes than I would have had in Hong Kong. I love using fresh, local vegetables and I am inspired by the diverse cultures here. I use a miso-based sauce in my dumplings because it enhances the natural flavours of the ingredients, as opposed to the stronger, often overpowering taste of the traditional soy sauce.
Tell me about your dumpling kits.
The kits are designed for convenience and quality. Everything is kept frozen until you're ready to make them. When you open the box, you’ll find all the essentials – vegetables, seasoning sauce, wrappers and your choice of protein (chicken, pork or tofu). I take great pride in using high-quality ingredients, including organic flour and free-range meat, so that every kit is as good as it can be.
How do the kits work?
It’s pretty simple! You just mix the protein, vegetables and sauce in a bowl. Then spoon a teaspoon of the mixture into each wrapper and fold it up. The wrappers are stretchy and flexible, so they’re easy to handle. It’s a fun, hands-on experience for the whole family.
What’s the best way to cook dumplings?
There are several options for cooking. Steaming is an easy and healthy method, or you can boil them in a broth for a more hearty, comforting meal. My personal favourite is to pan-fry them until the bottoms are crispy. I’ve even included potato starch in the dough to help achieve that ultimate crispy texture.
What’s the best way to enjoy Imperial Palate dumplings?
I curated these dumplings, so they taste delicious all on their own without needing any dipping sauce. However, if you like a little extra zing, a bit of chilli oil can take them to the next level.
Do you have time for any hobbies outside of work and family?
It’s definitely a balancing act. Most of my time is devoted to my family and my growing business. But when I do get a moment, I love photography and travelling. Exploring new places and capturing beautiful moments is something that really refreshes me. PN
AWARD-WINNING GELATO BRAND, LITTLE ‘LATO, HAS JUST OPENED IN THE HEART OF PONSONBY!
Known for its innovative flavours and commitment to quality, Little ‘Lato has gained widespread recognition, not just for their traditional offerings but also for their exceptional vegan options.
The new parlour comes at perfect timing just after the Little ‘Lato team received a record five trophies at the 2024 NZ Ice Cream Awards including the prestigious Supreme Champion Boutique Ice Cream Producer. Their Mango Lassi took the spotlight this year, becoming the first dairy-free ice cream to have been awarded the Supreme Award, highlighting the brand’s goal of crafting delicious gelato that everyone can enjoy. Alongside this, they received trophies for Best Gelato, Best New Product (launched in the past 12 months), Best Dairy Free and Best of New Zealand Produce.
The business was born out of a pure love of gelato. Founder Hannah (a self-proclaimed gelato fanatic) received a scholarship to study at the Carpigiani Gelato University in Italy. It was here that the dream for a gelato business was inspired, seeing the opportunity to bring the premium product to New Zealand where “We have the highest global consumption of ice cream but limited availability of premium gelato,” Hannah explains.
Compared to ice cream, gelato is served at a warmer temperature, has lower fat and has no added air. This means the product is deliciously smooth and flavoursome! Every small batch of Little ‘Lato gelato is crafted from scratch and churned to velvety perfection in their production kitchen in Northcote.
Ponsonby will be the official Auckland hub for Little ‘Lato, showcasing the very best of the Little ‘Lato brand and any of the 500 creatively delicious gelato and vegan gelato flavours that have been crafted to date. With 36 flavours scooping up at any given time (half of which are vegan), there will be a little extravagant joy for everyone.
www.littlelato.nz
So, are you ready to experience the traditional flavours you love, like espresso, pistachio or deep dark chocolate? Or will you dare to try a curious twist – how about sour cream gelato infused with lemon zest and mixed berries, or lime and grapefruit sorbet with a sniff of coriander?
For a curious twist or a familiar flavour, no matter your dietary requirements, indulge in a Little 'Lato.
LITTLE ‘LATO, 119 Ponsonby Road, M: 021 0257 3500, www.littlelato.nz
to learn where you can find the gelato goodness scooping!
@littlelato
to keep up to date with the latest flavours and collaborations!
Here’s a bunch of fab wines to share with your nearest and dearest over the summer holiday season. Cheers!
Main Divide North Canterbury Gewürztraminer 2024 - $22
4.5 Stars Light and fragrant, with a hint of spritzy CO2. Fermented in oak and aged for three months in barrel. Turkish Delight, lemon squash, lychee fruit and a hint of spicy clove. 13% ABV.
Available: pegasusbay.com finewinedelivery.co.nz
Main Divide North Canterbury Pinot Gris 2024 - $22
5 Stars Gorgeous, and bursting with flavour. Partially aged on yeast lees to add complexity. Grapefruit, pink guava, pineapple, lychee and clover honey. Generous and oily at 15.5% ABV, tangy and lengthy finish. Great value. Available: widely
Main Divide North Canterbury Sauvignon Blanc 2024 - $22
4 Stars Light, dry and subtle with fresh black currant, gooseberry, Rose’s lime juice. Medium acids and a dry, crisp finish. 12.5% ABV. Available: pegasusbay.com blackmarket.co.nz
Main Divide North Canterbury Rosé 2024 - $22
4.5 Stars Just nudging off-dry and at 12.5% ABV. Strawberries, ripe red cherry, creaming soda and a hint of marshmallow. Available: pegasusbay.com blackmarket.co.nz
Paul Jaboulet Aîné Rhône Valley Viognier 2023 - $24
4.5 Stars The classic white grape of the Rhône, this viognier is dry and elegant at 13.5% ABV. Subtle flavours of poached pear, triple sec, clover honey and blond tobacco, with a hint of baking spice. Available: Dhall & Nash blackmarket.co.nz
Niepoort Drink Me Nat Cool Bairadda Tinto Portugal 2022 - $33
5 Stars In a funky 1 litre bottle. Made from hand-harvested indigenous baga grapes. Very approachable, soft and ripe at
11.5% ABV. Spice, poached plum, cherry almond and umami earthy mushroom. Would pass for a pinot noir in a blind tasting. Chill for summer sipping.
Available: Dhall & Nash, Fine O Wines
Château La Chapelle Vin de Bordeaux Maillard Rouge (organic) 2020 - $25
5 Stars From the Saint Emilion appellation. Ripe, soft and generous with cassis, black berry fruit, soy, spiced plum, stewed prune and hint of earthiness. Available: Dhall & Nash, Fine O Wines, blackmarket.co.nz
Pares Balta Cava Catalonia Spain (organic) NV - $28
4.5 Stars Produced from three indigenous Spanish grapes – parellada, macabeu and xarel-lo, this is a bone-dry crisp sparkler. Mineral, yeasty aromas lead on to a clean and crisp palate of yeast and minerality with a hint of Granny Smith apple and citrus. Available: Dhall & Nash blackmarket.co.nz
No 1 Family Assemblé - $36
5 stars Traditional bottle fermented sparkler from No 1 Family of Marlborough. Creamy and seamless, with a frothy mousse. Apple sauce, grapefruit marmalade, plus yeasty croissant from extended lees ageing. Crisp, tangy mineral finish. Superb. Available: Glengarry no1familyestate.co.nz
4 Stars A Margarita mixer, crafted with habanero chillies from the Yucatán Peninsula. Initially, quite smooth at 15% ABV, with medium sweet flavours of grapefruit, tequila and fresh lime juice. Once swallowed – a spicy kick of hot chilli at the back of the throat. Would be great over ice or mixed with soda. Available: widely (PHIL PARKER) PN
www.finewinetours.co.nz, phil.parker@xtra.co.nz
MEET MAHARA LAWSON, GENERAL MANAGER OF THE SURREY HOTEL
Tell us how you came to work for the hotel.
I’m a returning employee at The Surrey Hotel, having previously served as the live-in manager from August 2003 to April 2011. A few weeks ago, I received a call from the owner, who asked if I’d be interested in rejoining the team. After a conversation that made me feel truly valued, I’m excited to be back! Before this, I was the Volunteer Services Manager at Auckland City Mission, a role I held for nearly six years. Leaving an organisation I deeply cared about wasn’t an easy decision. While the two organisations are quite different, the core of the work remains the same: manaakitanga, the spirit of hospitality and care. At the heart of it all, I simply love working with people.
We hear you are a long-term resident in Grey Lynn, you’ll have a lot of interesting information about the area to share with your guests – anything you want to share with us?
Grey Lynn is a vibrant, diverse community with a rich cultural heritage, which is part of what makes it so special. The stunning murals that decorate our walls, alongside the wide range of activities and events available, make our neighbourhood unique. We're fortunate to be close to popular attractions like Eden Park, Western Springs Arena, MOTAT, and the Auckland Zoo. Grey Lynn is also a welcoming home for outof-town family and friends visiting the area, offering a warm, community-centered atmosphere.
What does your typical work day look like?
If you had asked me this during the Coldplay concert in November, you would have found me driving a shuttle from the hotel to Eden Park. I ferried at least 100 people, which gave me a fantastic opportunity to connect and engage with our guests. We also welcomed the locals to join us for a drink and offered them the free shuttle service as well. I generally spend my working day ensuring our guests have a great experience when they stay with us.
Favourite things you like to do when you get time off?
A visit to Ripe on Richmond Road for coffee is a must – they also serve the most delicious cheese and herb scones. I frequent the Grey Lynn Pamper Bar which is the perfect spot for a monthly pamper session and catch up with a friend who travels from Titirangi. I love exploring local eateries and spending time with friends and family. The weekly Sunday
Farmers Market and the Monthly Car Boot Market are regular events on my calendar. In winter, I am a regular on the sidelines at Auckland Netball and Netball North Harbour, where you’ll often find me either coaching or umpiring.
THE SURREY HOTEL, 465 Great North Road, T: 09 378 9059, www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz
BARILETTO
This barrel made aged Negroni, produced right here in Ponsonby, is the perfect Christmas gift.
In 2016, Negroni enthusiast Al White discovered a New York bar specialising in barrel-aged Negronis. It was after this that he started to consider how he could make his own version back home.
Years later and after being gifted a small oak barrel, Al started testing different combinations of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari with the barrel becoming a constant companion on holidays and at dinner parties.
Once the optimal blend of ingredients for the ageing process was settled on, the process of sourcing the perfect barrels began. After trying different options from all around the world, the perfect barrels, hand made by expert coopers in eastern Europe, were selected.
Throughout the development journey, it was a priority to produce a drink that was instantly recognisable as a Negroni and which retained a traditional flavour profile. The barrel aging process does this but brings a lot to the Negroni’s already powerful nature, offering a rich, opulent quality that adds to the cocktail’s depth. It gives a subtle smokiness, makes it ever so slightly sweeter and is a lot smoother on the palate.
In 2022, Al and his wife Lisa formed Bariletto, a Ponsonbybased company specialising in small batch, barrel-aged Negronis. Since officially launching, they have generated a loyal following of Negroni fans who keep coming back for more… "Negroni drinker or not, you have to try this", "the best gift I have received", "I absolutely love this stuff!"
As well as being available in beautiful bottles and giftboxes through www.bariletto.co.nz and retailers, you will also find it in select bars and restaurants being served directly from the barrel.
EuroCave is the global leader in the wine storage industry offering premium quality wine fridges, wine racking systems and wine cellar conditioners.
The entire EuroCave range is manufactured in France with meticulous attention to detail which is reflected in the unquestionable quality of the finished product.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Ten years ago, I was on a quest to find the best quality wine cabinet for my own wine collection. After extensive research, it become clear that EuroCave wine cabinets were superior in every respect and the rest is history! We now import EuroCave wine cabinets directly from France, opened our flagship Ponsonby showroom about a year ago and now have the full range of EuroCave products on display.
What products do you sell?
We sell premium quality wine cabinets/fridges, wine racking systems, wine cellar conditioners and Zalto wine glasses. We deliver and install the wine cabinets ourselves, so we truly provide an end to end service. In respect of wine cellars, we can do anything from just supplying components to a complete design and build project. We can prepare a 3D model of your cellar or wine room so you can visualise how this will look before you decide to go ahead.
How do we arrange an appointment?
Our showroom is open by appointment, but I am located nearby so feel free to give me a call at any time!
If you see the EuroCave banners outside, please call in and I’ll pour you a glass of Champagne (served in a Zalto glass of course) whilst you take a look around.
team... extend their best wishes for a safe and happy festive season!
* $22 per table per hour
* 10 International Tables
* 6 English Eight-Ball Tables
* Separate Snooker Lounge (Featuring Rolling Stones Memorabilia)
* 30+ Bottled Beer Brands
* Comprehensive Range of RTDs, Wine and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
* Vouchers available for Table Time + Refreshments
* PPH Caps
* Beanies
AYURVEDA – THE ART OF LIVING WELL
Brahmi Brain Boost –Where Ayurveda Meets the ‘Food of the Gods’.
For almost 15 years, we have been treating clients at Ayurveda New Zealand for a wide range of health concerns. One condition that continues to show up repeatedly is the evergrowing presence of anxiety and mental stress. This insight was the spark that pushed us to create something special – a formula that could support our clients to feel grounded and find balance in their daily lives while nourishing their bodies and minds.
In our fast-paced world, many of us rely on coffee as a daily pick-me-up. Yet, while coffee has its merits, its stimulating effect on the nervous system does come with a cost and can leave us feeling more on edge than energised.
At Ayurveda New Zealand, we have crafted a delightful and nourishing alternative to coffee called Brahmi Brain Boost. It is derived from a harmonious blend of Brahmi and rich cacao paired with warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, licorice, nutmeg and a subtle hint of chilli.
Brahmi is a time-honoured herb celebrated in Ayurvedic medicine for its remarkable ability to boost cognitive function and reduce stress. Brahmi plays a dual role by balancing both Vata (air and space elements) and Kapha (earth and water elements) doshas, making it a cherished remedy for enhancing mental clarity and fostering overall wellbeing.
Our certified organic cacao, although a stimulant, has a very different effect on the nervous system to caffeine. Cacao enhances blood flow to the brain, heart and body, promoting a state of focus and clarity. This increased circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to our organs, uplifting the mood and leaving us feeling centred and connected, rather than over stimulated.
Each sip of Brahmi Brain Boost is not just a tasty experience but an indulgence that revitalises the body and calms the mind.
Both Brahmi and cacao are abundant in antioxidants, essential for neutralising free radicals that can damage cells and tissues. While Brahmi offers anti-inflammatory properties, supports cognitive health and helps regulate blood pressure, cacao stands out as one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants and is packed with magnesium and iron.
We’re also excited to share that Ayurveda New Zealand has partnered with Little Bird Kitchen, who now features Brahmi Brain Boost on their weekly menu. Paired with their delicious,
house-made plant-based milks and grated raw chocolate, this drink is a must-try experience.
As we approach the festive season, the Brahmi Brain Boost makes for a thoughtful and nurturing gift. Up until Christmas, Ayurveda New Zealand is offering beautifully packaged jars for you to order and share with loved ones. We are also offering a discount for all of our Ponsonby News readers. Use the code CHRISTMAS24 to receive 15% off all Ayurveda New Zealand products and treatments purchased online in the month of December.
BEST LUXURY THAI. BEST INTERIOR DESIGN. BEST LUXURY URBAN ESCAPE.
When I entered Sa-Ni in the World Luxury Spa Awards 2024, I did so without expectation.
After all, we had been in business for just six months, and previous winners of the awards include such leading global spa brands as Aman, Six Senses, One&Only, Cheval Blanc, Gstaad Palace, The Ritz-Carlton and Waldorf Astoria spas, many of which I’ve visited and learned so much from in my journey to creating Sa-Ni.
However, I was encouraged when I saw the categories we could enter. I felt if we selected carefully, we had a chance. And we did. Sa-Ni Massage and Spa won in three categories in the Australasia/Oceania region:
Best Luxury Traditional Thai Spa.
Best Interior Design.
Best Luxury Urban Escape.
It’s a tribute to the entire Sa-Ni team – our designers, management and, of course, our expert therapists, who ensure that every client enjoys and benefits from a treatment that meets their personal needs.
Personal significance
For me, personally, winning the award for luxury traditional Thai has special significance. It says our therapists have captured the essence of traditional Thai massage treatments in a luxurious and refined setting, preserving Thai traditions while incorporating modern amenities.
Attention to detail
While I contributed to the design, the award for best interior design really belongs to my partner, Nigel McKenna. His attention to detail has delivered an elegant environment where natural materials and detailed aesthetic elements are blended to create a truly immersive and luxurious experience, one where all six senses can be brought into play.
An urban oasis
But the award that means most to Sa-Ni as a business is the third one: best luxury urban escape. Sa-Ni is not a rural retreat, a remote destination. It’s a spa in the heart of Auckland, in the middle of one of the most bustling and vibrant streets in New Zealand. That makes us very accessible, but it also poses some immense challenges which we overcame through subtleties of interior design and by engaging all six senses from the moment you step through the door and onto the sisal carpet
I hope you will forgive me using this this column to talk about our achievements instead of offering advice and information. I simply wanted to share my excitement with you. Thank you.
Co-founder and Director, Sa-Ni Massage and Spa
SA-NI MASSAGE AND WELLNESS CENTRE, 8 Upper Queen Street, T: 09 320 1742, www.sa-ni.co.nz
Sarisa Nasinprom
@HERNE BAY PHARMACY
1. Animated Musical Grinch Side Stepper. Moves side to side while singing a song.
2. Parched Dehydrated Citrus Cocktail Garnishes.
3. New Zealand Wool Hand Woven Gry & Sif Felt Christmas Decorations.
4. Deluxe Handmade Christmas Crackers with an Escape Room Game.
5. Stellar Solar Waterproof Camping Lights.
6. Deluxe Musical Light Up Nutcracker Christmas Story Decoration.
GIFT GIVING. BUT MAKE IT UNIQUE
The team from ASH&STONE has been working hard behind the scenes in preparation for Christmas.
With a focus on thoughtful and unique gifts, they've curated a selection of NZ-made crystal jewellery, ceramics and candles – all made by hand and all one-off pieces. With a range of crystals to fit all budgets and design tastes, you'll find the perfect gift to last a lifetime.
Visit ASH&STONE at 3 Redmond Street, Ponsonby. Or shop online at ashandstone.online
Large pink amethyst
Rose quartz crystal lamp
Ceramic mug
Ceramic plates
Pink amethyst crystal necklace
Tanzanite crystal necklace
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS… SOMETHING USEFUL
This year, make it a personal mission to give something special to the planet as well as to your loved ones.
Gifts that are not only beautiful but useful, means they’re far less likely to end up in landfill. Whoever you’re shopping for, arming yourself with a few good ideas is the key to getting it right without breaking the bank.
For a teacher
Rather than adding to a teacher’s chocolate mountain, why not give them something they can use every day at work. Bound notebooks in interesting designs are always a welcome feature on any teacher’s desk. Reusable coffee cups, drink bottles or lunch boxes are also great gift options.
For a grandparent
Is there anyone in your life that will enjoy a useful gift more?
A pack of pretty cards or notelets that are blank are a great option as many people tend to appreciate the art of cardwriting and giving. Printed napkins and coasters are also a great idea for their festive family get togethers.
For a secret santa
If you’d like to give something a little more thoughtful than a plastic novelty gift, a variety pack of soaps with a travel tin is a holiday-friendly option. Go for luxurious fragrances and
rich formulations that feel a little special. Not only will you be giving something beautiful, you’ll score extra eco points for the plastic-free gift.
For a child
There’s nothing children like more than feeling grown up. Why not fill a small toilet bag with their own grab-and-go toiletry supply for the summer holidays? Include a small-sized shower gel, sunscreen, toothpaste and a toothbrush. Be sure to go for gentle formulations with no harsh ingredients. You’ll make packing for family adventures easier for their parents as well.
For the whole world
Head to ecostore’s shop at 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay for a wide range of beautiful gifts that tick the useful box and, even better, do a little bit of good for the entire planet. You’ll find all of their plant and mineral-based home and body care products, as well as thoughtfully curated gift packs and pretty but practical eco-friendly goodies for everyone.
EXPERIENCE A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE WITH GREEN DOCTORS
The Benefits of Medicinal Cannabis: A Natural Alternative
For many in New Zealand, traditional treatments and medications haven’t brought the relief they need. Medicinal cannabis is a natural alternative for managing a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, insomnia, migraines and more. It can offer a gentler approach for those seeking holistic support for their mental and physical wellbeing.
Struggling with anxiety?
Medicinal cannabis, especially strains high in CBD, may help ease symptoms such as a racing heart, restlessness and heightened stress. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, providing calming effects without the ‘high’. Studies show that CBD can help regulate the brain’s response to stress, making it a potentially powerful tool for anxiety relief and emotional balance.
Sleepless nights impacting your daily life?
Insomnia is another condition where medicinal cannabis has shown promise. A recent New Zealand study revealed that 97% of participants using cannabis therapeutically reported significant improvements in their sleep. High-CBD strains may help regulate sleep patterns, enabling better rest and improved mental clarity. For those dealing with anxietyrelated sleep disturbances, medicinal cannabis offers a promising alternative to traditional sleep aids.
Living with chronic pain?
Chronic pain can take a toll on both body and mind and, for some, medicinal cannabis offers relief without the side effects of opioid medications. CBD, in particular, has been studied for its pain-relieving properties, helping people manage conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and migraines. Research, including a systematic review on CBD for chronic pain, suggests that CBD may help alleviate discomfort and enhance sleep, offering a safer alternative for pain management.
With an increasing body of research, medicinal cannabis provides a hopeful path for many.
Meet the Green Doctors:
Transforming Lives Through Medicinal Cannabis Care
Since 2019, Green Doctors has been at the forefront of New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis field, proudly providing accessible telehealth consultations with experienced doctors. Founded by the late Dr Mark Hotu and co-founder Natalie Lowe, Green Doctors has earned its place as a trusted source for Kiwis seeking natural, cannabis-based relief for a wide range of health challenges. From their origins in a physical clinic on Jervois Road to their bright and modern Eden Terrace location, Green Doctors has grown to serve patients from every corner of New Zealand.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Following Dr Hotu's untimely passing in early 2023, Natalie Lowe stepped up to carry forward their shared vision. “Mark played a pivotal role in establishing Green Doctors’ reputation as a compassionate, knowledgeable clinic dedicated to patient care. His vision still guides us and we are more committed than ever to improving the lives of our patients,” says Natalie. “We believe that everyone deserves access to safe, affordable and effective treatments that enhance their quality of life.”
Looking to the future, Natalie is enthusiastic about the clinic’s continued growth. “Our aim is to keep learning and expanding to meet our patients’ needs. As awareness around medicinal cannabis continues to grow, so too does the demand. We’re excited to be part of this positive change and hope to reach even more people who can benefit from our services.”
A Promising Future for Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand
Medicinal cannabis research has progressed significantly in recent years, with studies demonstrating how cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to address a range of conditions. This understanding has underpinned the legalisation of medicinal cannabis in New Zealand and across the globe, as more people recognise the therapeutic benefits cannabis can offer.
In 2023 alone, around 40,000 New Zealanders accessed medicinal cannabis for conditions like insomnia, arthritis, chronic pain, menopause, epilepsy, ADHD and as a support for cancer treatment. New Zealand’s cannabis market is now one of the fastest-growing in the region, with an estimated market value expected to exceed NZ$80 million by year’s end and annual growth projections at 14.58% (source: Statista). Green Doctors is committed to being part of this growing movement, helping more Kiwis discover how medicinal cannabis can be an effective complement to traditional therapies.
As a part of their mission to expand access, Green Doctors is soon adding new product options to their portfolio, providing
more tailored choices for patients and enhancing the clinic’s range of therapeutic offerings.
Take Advantage of Green Doctors’ Affordable Consultation Offer
The rising costs of food and living have been challenging for many this year, and Green Doctors is stepping up to help. To make consultations even more accessible, Green Doctors is now offering a discounted rate of just $35 for consultations until the end of February 2025 – the lowest cost for medicinal cannabis consults in New Zealand!
Natalie shares, “We’re always looking for ways to make medicinal cannabis more accessible. We understand that managing health issues can be stressful, especially during tough economic times. This special offer reflects our commitment to helping more people access affordable, quality care.”
Your Path to a Better Life Starts Here
If you’re dealing with chronic pain, sleepless nights, anxious feelings or a range of other health conditions, Green Doctors could offer the support you need. To learn more about medicinal cannabis and how it could improve your quality of life, reach out to the Green Doctors today. Their experienced doctors are ready to discuss whether medicinal cannabis is a suitable option, guide you through your choices and provide a personalised approach to your health and wellness journey.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS. AND IT STARTED IN PONSON BY
Jane’s business "Jane Daniels Design" was born in Ponsonby. Well, after a start at home with an old door across a sofa as a packing bench, and then a few months sharing space with interior designers in a converted old bakery. Outgrowing that space, she moved into an old villa in MacKelvie Street. Her parents, just retired, saw her workload and asked if they could help. As they were from entirely different work backgrounds, she had to teach them what to do! They promised to help for a year and ended up working in the business for fourteen! They were marvellous, loved and respected by cutters, makers and clients. Their new retirement jobs helped fund their wonderful trips around the world.
The design and wholesale business flourished. When the landlord wanted to redevelop, Jane was by then able to buy her design studio and current headquarters building in Newton Road. A careful choice, on one level for carrying bolts of fabric and wheeling racks of garments, with immediate access to all motorways to her cutters and makers. Every item was made here in New Zealand and still is today. 100% pure New Zealand made.
Her retail clients were great and very supportive, and she is forever grateful for their help in her success. Those in the regions are still with her, but Jane wanted to showcase her whole collection, so 25 years ago, she established her own retail store in an
old Freemasons’ Hall at 2 Birdwood Crescent in Parnell. A fabulous character building, especially after she pulled down the false ceiling to reveal the original carved woodwork that you see today.
With enough space to provide a luxurious and special experience for her clients and in an area easily accessible to them, it is a destination store. Everything that fast fashion and the shopping mall is not. Jane’s mission statement has always been to tailor effortlessly elegant, sleek clothes from the best European (mainly Italian) fabrics. She has stayed true to her course, plus, since the establishment of her role as brand ambassador for the Innovative Travel Company, and visiting some exotic destinations, she found a need, and has added her wash-and-go travel capsule wardrobe, made from a great fabric from Japan. She travels regularly to source her exclusive fabrics, often colouring them herself and having her watercolour paintings turned into silk prints.
Jane has created a brand that speaks to modern women seeking sophistication, practicality and comfort. Showing a deep understanding of fabric and form, and great attention to detail, her signature style includes impeccably tailored blazers, sleek dresses, and relaxed yet elegant tops and trousers, crafted primarily from high quality wools, linens and silks, Styling often includes asymmetry, pleating and intricate stitching, but above all, meticulous cut and tailoring, the backbone of her business. Early on she studied and gained a degree in this in London. Jane often discusses tailoring issues with her long-time partner, master tailor Brendon de Silva,of Preston & Maurice Bespoke Tailors (est 1897), a unique resource to call on.
By encouraging women to invest in high quality, long lasting pieces, Jane promotes a wardrobe that is built to endure.
Of course, she can’t do all of this on her own. She has a small and wonderful team, who have been with her for many years. She has always maintained a very personal approach and is extremely hands-on herself. As time permits, she loves to be in the store, meeting and helping her customers.
Jane also has stores in Wellington, Christchurch and an Online store, and a loyal following in Australia.
Master Dress and Josie Jacket
GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS
@ THE STATION BOUTIQUE
With something different in every corner, from jewellery to true vintage fashion, cushions, glassware and amazing pots and plants, The Station Boutique offers gifts for every occasion.
As a proud stockist of Marykate Vintage Silk Wear, Vera May Linen & Silk Wear from Italy, and Namaskar Wearable Arts from Australia, these all-natural clothing ranges are designed for comfort while offering style and total elegance.
The Station Boutique owner, Tina Lalande, says, “It is good to be knowingly supporting natural breathable textiles.”
Tina is equally as pleased to stock the range of skin/body care products by Nude Kiwi in Nelson and Nudi Point in Kaitaia, as all are natural and a couple organic. These skin/ body care products make wonderful Christmas gifts.
When in Rawene take advantage of the 20% off coupon instore or shop online with Code: SAVE20 www.inatthestation.co.nz
Delicate French scented soaps
Italian linen dresses and silk trousers
A SUMMER OF FASHION AND BEAUTY
Whether you’re looking for a special gift for a loved one or simply a treat for yourself, this holiday season sees all manner of beautiful options flooding local stores. Here is just a snippet of what’s available in the wider neighbourhood, all chosen with mindful gifting and the long, hot summer months ahead in mind.
For the beauty freak
MECCA’s holiday campaign packaging has become as iconic as the limited-edition gift releases adorning their shelves, many of which are flying out of the store now and instantly covetable. Each year, the beauty powerhouse – along with the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) – chooses an artist of significance to collaborate with, who will create the artwork that adorns the iconic boxes and bags destined to be placed under Christmas trees across Australia and Aotearoa. This year, they’ve chosen a talented woman from Queensland for the honour: Brisbane-based multidisciplinary artist Natalya Hughes. Hughes was inspired by Russian-born artist and designer, Erté’s illustrations in ‘Ermyntrude and Esmeralda’ –a book gifted to her as a child – for the paintings that adorn MECCA’s beautiful packaging, which depicts dresses full of frills, pleats and bows.
HELENE RAVLICH:
MECCA Holiday artist, Natalya Hughes
The gift of protection
Whenever I’ve quizzed beauty experts – be they dermatologists, makeup artists or cosmetic surgeons – for their pick when it comes to skincare that stops premature ageing in its tracks, they all agree that the most important thing you can do to keep your skin looking good well into old age is wear a sunscreen. Daily. No arguments, no forgetting on a cloudy day. Add to that the fact that an estimated 90 per cent of all melanomas in Australasia are caused by direct sunlight, thus making daily sunscreen use an absolute no brainer. With that in mind, gifting suncare is always a good idea!
La Roche-Posay, the world’s #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand and #1 selling sunscreen brand in New Zealand pharmacies, has taken sun protection to the next level with the launch of Anthelios UVMUNE 400. The result of no less than 10 years of research, this innovative new sunscreen range introduces the iconic French brand’s most advanced UV filter technology to date, providing ultrabroad-spectrum protection against even the most insidious UVA and UVB rays.
La Roche-Posay’s iconic best seller (and one of my long-time favourite sunscreens), Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF50+ has been upgraded to Anthelios UVMune 400, incorporating enhanced protection without compromising its beloved sensorial experience. This formulation still provides the same ultra-light, non greasy, invisible finish that blends seamlessly into all skin tones, but now will provide even better protection against long, damaging UV rays.
Topical vitamin C is beloved by skincare enthusiasts for many reasons, one of which is the fact that it pairs beautifully with suncare products. Sunscreen and vitamin C are a dynamic duo that works brilliantly together to protect skin, as the latter can boost your SPF’s efficiency. Sunscreen helps prevent vitamin C from oxidising on the skin, in turn thereby improving its performance. Which brings me to local skincare brand RAAIE’s Morning Radiance Ritual Set, a limited edition holiday season wonder featuring their globally acclaimed Morning Dew Vitamin C Serum and Sun Milk Drops SPF50, beautifully packaged together in a RAAIE cosmetics bag.
Lastly, true heritage New Zealand skincare brand Antipodes recently released Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen, which sold out in Europe within 12 days of launch earlier this year. A 100 per cent natural-origin mineral sunscreen with a glowy, luminous finish, it sits beautifully under makeup and comes with an SPF50+ and broad spectrum
UVA + UVB protection. Loved by Vogue, Elle, Cosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar and Marie Claire, it is destined to be seen everywhere this summer.
The gift of choice
Who doesn’t love a regular massage or facial, but can’t always justify the spend? This is why the gift of a spa voucher is always well received and inevitably used within days of receiving it! Some spas even offer vouchers for customised experiences so a lucky giftee can go with whatever treatments they most feel like on the day, or if you really feel like splurging, a spa day is the ultimate self-care treat for a loved one at any time of year. Locally, Spring Spa and their sister spa, East Day Spa, have some beautiful vouchers on offer that will definitely be appreciated.
Antipodes Supernatural SPF50
East Day Spa Kansa Wand facial
Spring Spa
RAAIE's Morning Radiance Ritual Set
One for the lovers
Launched towards the end of November, Zoë & Morgan’s Modern Love offering is just beautiful. An all-inclusive collection that celebrates connection, Modern Love evolved from the brand’s signature Art Deco style and endless love of precious stones and metals.
The team consciously curates what materials they work with to ensure their impact on the planet aligns with their values and, while each style stands alone, they look just incredible when grouped together. Using recycled and fine quality metals, this collection is made locally and designed to last a lifetime.
Gifts for the fit friend
I think it’s safe to say that Lululemon is where most of the neighbourhood shops for activewear and loungewear, and everything else in between. I personally repeat buy so many of their signature styles, which last like no other and definitely perform when I need them to. The Ponsonby Lululemon store is also a great place to find gifts for your more active friends over the holiday season, with lots of cleverly crafted
accessories and fits available in limited edition colourways and at all manner of price points.
This Christmas I predict the Restfeel Slides, Back to Life Sport Bottle and Everywhere Crossbody Bag will be welcome under any Christmas tree and destined to be well-used all summer long.
The gift of self care
A local brand that I fell in love with from the moment it first entered the chat, clean beauty innovator Sans [ceuticals] never disappoints when it comes to creating beautiful holiday kits with an extra layer of care. This year, the limited-edition ‘Moments of Care’ kits are designed to be your 'pause button', helping you navigate from the pre-holiday hustle to January’s peaceful moments. Perfect for personal rejuvenation or as a soothing gift to someone special, they include curated sets for skin, hair and body, all of which come beautifully encased in a washable canvas bag, thoughtfully designed by Sans [ceuticals] with a waterproof liner and available in three chic shades. (HELENE RAVLICH)
Sans A Moment to Energise kit
Lululemon Restfeel Slides; Everywhere Crossbody Bag; Back to Life Sport Bottle
Zoë & Morgan Modern Love
SUMMER READING GUIDE
The Gavin Bishop Treasury, (Penguin Random House NZ) $45
A very special hardback collection of 10 classic children's stories for young readers to treasure, written and illustrated by the multiple-award-winning New Zealand author Gavin Bishop. The stories include six of Gavin’s original stories and retellings of four much-loved fairytales. A wonderful book to snuggle up with. Ages 2-6.
The Remarkables:
The Most Incredible Children I’ve Met So Far! By Clotilde Perrin (Gecko Press) $39.99
In this extraordinary compendium, you’ll be able to recognise parts of many children you know and maybe even yourself. For example, the Thunder Child who loves throwing himself around and making lots of noise. Fabulous illustrations and little quirky notes make this book a joy to read and explore. Like all of Clotilde's books, this is just as much fun for adults to read as children. Ages 3+.
One Wise Sheep by Ulrich Hub, illustrated by Jörg Mühle (Gecko Press) $19.99
This retelling of the nativity story from the point of view of the sheep is laugh-out-loud funny and full of the warmth of Christmas – a cheeky illustrated chapter book by a bestselling author/illustrator pair. The story reinforces the season’s theme — be a little nicer to each other, forgive your quarrels and listen to everybody, especially the children. Ages 5-9.
Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody by Patrick Ness, illustrated by Tim Miller (Walker Books) $18.99
This is a zany, funny novel about a very recognizable school peopled with animals. Our main character is Zeke, a monitor lizard, who with his friends Daniel and Alicia (also monitor lizards), has been made a Hall Monitor (strange coincidence). The three of them must try and outwit the school bully and wannabe supervillain Pelicarnassus (yes, a Pelican). And did I mention that Zeke has France on his knee? Ages 8-12.
Turtle Moon by Hannah Gold, illustrated by Levi Pinfold (Harper Collins) $19.99
Silver isn’t too sure about spending four months in Costa Rica at a turtle rescue centre – there might be huge spiders. But before long she has made a good friend, Rafi, and fallen for the amazing turtles. Along with Rafi she is determined to help save the turtle’s eggs from poachers. Another fabulous blend of wildlife and adventure from Hannah Gold, full of heart and hope. Ages 8-12.
The 113th Assistant Librarian, by Stuart Wilson (Penguin Random House) $24
Oliver Wormwood is sure his new job in the library will be boring but by the end of his first day, he has witnessed the librarian's death, been frozen by a book, met a perplexing number of cats and fought off a horde of terrifying creatures. With only a mysterious girl called Agatha to show him the ropes, Oliver needs to learn fast if he wants to live longer than the 112 assistant librarians before him. Ages 8-12.
Deidre Brown, Ngarino Ellis, Jonathan Mane-Whaoki $100
This glorious book, more than a decade in the making, is a landmark account of Māori art, in words and illustrations, by Māori art historians. Comprehensive and inclusive, it explores a wide field of art practice: ancestral weaving, tattoo, architecture, painting, film, photography, jewellery, as well as individual artists, movements and events. Climb onto this waka for a remarkable voyage.
Becoming Tangata Tiriti – Working with Māori, Honouring the Treaty – Averil Bell $30
Powerful and beautifully written, this book gives accessible guidance to how non-Māori can work with tangata whenua to decolonise Aotearoa. It invites us to consider how we might move forward in ways that are just and that enhance the mana of Māori and non-Māori alike.
Atua Wāhine – The ancient wisdom of Māori goddesses –Hana Tapiata $37
A fascinating and enlightening exploration of 17 Māori goddesses. From Papatūānuku who sustains and nurtures us, to the goddess of peace, Hinepūtehue, and the misunderstood goddess of the underworld, Hinenuitepō, this book is a treasure of knowledge and insight that can help us live with courage in our uncertain world.
All That We Know – Shilo Kino $38
This brilliant novel from a young Maori author is very timely. Māreikura is an angry young woman who is outraged about colonisation, intergenerational trauma and her inability to speak her own language. Set in Ponsonby (her Nan lives in Franklin Road), it is vividly written, often funny and is an important novel of Aotearoa.
The Writing Desk – A graphic novel set in colonial New Zealand – Di Morris $45
This extraordinary graphic novel is a gem! Using superb illustrations, old family photographs and historical ephemera, it takes us through a fascinating pākehā family history, highlighting the daily trials and societal prejudices that women faced in the colonial era. An intriguing work of art.
Orbital – Samantha Harvey – Winner 2024 Booker Prize $26
This slender, stunning, exquisite novel follows one day in the lives of six astronauts – their hopes and dreams and daily routines. As they orbit the earth they reflect on the beauty, fragility and resilience of our planet. It is being described internationally as ‘awe inspiring’, ‘luminous’, ‘an extraordinary, uplifting book’.
Tell Me Everything – Elizabeth Strout $38
Olive Kitteridge, Lucy Barton, Bob Burgess – they’re all here, with their wisdom and foibles, along with all the townsfolk of Crosby, Maine. There’s murder, suicide, abuse, love and empathy and all the messiness of people’s lives. Brilliantly witty, wise and tender, I hugged it to my heart when I finished!
Kingmaker – Pamela Churchill Harriman’s astonishing life of seduction, intrigue and power – Sonia Purnell $40 Behind every great man – this brilliant biography of Churchill’s daughter-in-law, defies the often sexist and scathing views of her. Regarded as a glamorous social climber and erotic adventuress, her political and social influence behind the scenes helped shape the 20th Century. This is a nuanced and fascinating study of power.
1. Kalo outdoor bean chairs – RRP $159.90, sold unfilled. Sit back and relax this summer on your stylish and comfortable Kalo bean chair. Made from quality olefin outdoor fabric and available in six timeless colours.
2. Curated Cushions - Plush feather and down filled cushions from $139.90.
3. Sonto Tote – Natural/Olive Cotton canvas and genuine leather, internal pockets, also available in Black/Coffee $139.90.
4. Noble Isle Rhubarb Rhubarb – Room Fragrance $49.90 Hand Wash and Hand Lotion Duo Gift Set $89.90.
5. 22 Momme Mulberry Silk Ink Chemise $279.90 Robe $379.90. Available in a curated collection of colours.
GIFT IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS?
Quality books by local authors – exclusive discounted prices for Ponsonby News readers. Free delivery in the Ponsonby News area.
1. Mike Lee's 'Navigators and Naturalists' (offer price $48)
2 & 3. Brian Gill's museum stories 'The Owl that Fell' and 'Unburnt Egg' ($14 each)
4. Dean Parker's novel ‘Johnson' ($20) Contact Isabel: ibown@hotmail.com
AUTHENTIC GERMAN KITCHENS
1. Le Creuset Mugs, all sizes buy 3 mugs, receive a 4th FREE
2. MasterPro Pizza Oven, Black, was $229, now $189
3. Mikasa ‘Does-It-All’ Bowls, buy 3 bowls, receive a 4th FREE $19.95 each
4.
5. KitchenAid Cordless Go Hand Mixer (with free battery) $239
6. Lodge 30cm Cast Iron Skillet, $129.95 with FREE 16.5cm skillet,
The festive season is here. Città is a one-stop destination for thoughtful homewares and accessories – perfect for placing under the tree. Discover something special for everyone on your list this Christmas with these coveted picks from Città.
1. Pinch Vase
An exciting new collaboration with internationally renowned product designer Jamie McLellan, celebrated for his work with Allbirds. The Pinch vase features a cylindrical base that tapers into a ‘pinched’ top, forming two distinct chambers. Available in a palette of three harmonious colours across three sizes. Pinch vase range from $75
2. Marlo Contrast Overnight Bag
Head out of town in style with the Marlo overnight bag. Available in three bold hues – spirulina, masala and blue-black – the design offers durability with its heavyweight cotton canvas. Keep summer reading close at hand in the statement slip-pockets. Marlo contrast overnight bag $120
3. Cozumel Beach Towel
Brighten your summer adventures with the playful Cozumel beach towel, inspired by the idyllic Mexican island. The generously sized, reversible plaid towels are woven from soft cotton and ideal for sun-soaked days. Cozumel beach towel $80
4. Striped Market Bag
Città’s beloved Market bag has a colourful update. The bold stripe pattern takes cues from Europe’s Basque Country with its two vibrant new designs. Made with heavyweight linen and perfectly sized for carrying beach or market essentials. Striped market bag $95
5. Arne Jacobsen Champagne Cooler
Città proudly stocks a curated collection from the Danish design house, Stelton. The range includes the iconic Cylinda Line by Arne Jacobsen. Designed in 1967 by the famed architect and designer, it’s a timeless piece of barware that elevates at-home entertaining. Arne Jacobsen Champagne cooler $460
Discover Città’s gift collection in-store at Grey Lynn, BLOC Mt Eden, and Takapuna, or online at cittadesign.com Plus, shop until Christmas Eve and you’ll receive a $50 promotional voucher for every $200 spent – a special treat to yourself or gift to a loved one.
www.cittadesign.com
COME FOR THE PRIME LOCATION . STAY FOR THE PERMANENT VACATION .
Experience the next level of retirement living. Whether you’re after a central spot you can lock up and leave, or somewhere you’ll never want to, here’s your central oasis for both convenience and comfort.
Take a tour of the state-of-the-art apartments and amenities that put The Helier in a league of its own.
To book a private consultation, call Debbie Little on 09 356 1800. thehelier.co.nz
28 Waimarie Street, St Heliers, Auckland
BLAIR HADDOW: BESPOKE MARKETING
One of Auckland’s foremost real estate agents secured the successful sale of one of the most memorable campaigns in his career with Bayleys Ponsonby.
In October, Blair Haddow of Bayleys Ponsonby listed a stunning executive 424-square metre colonial style homestead at 26 - 28 Arthur Street in Freemans Bay for sale. The high-end residence had previously been listed with two other real estate agencies.
However, things changed substantially for the better when the listing was placed with Blair Haddow and Bayleys Ponsonby.
The magnificent four-bedroom/three-bathroom Arthur Street homestead built in a pioneer homestead style from the early 1900s resplendent of a modern interpretation of a bygone era, sits on 856-square metres of land including meticulously manicured lawns and gardens across what was previously two addresses.
The grand three-storey manor encompasses a substantial open-plan kitchen/lounge/dining room floor plate delivering indoor/outdoor flow to the pool and pergola space, a purpose-built fitness room, wine cellar tasting room, a discreet office with its own kitchen bench, an inground swimming pool, an abundance of storage, garaging and additional off-street parking.
With rich-toned polished hardwood floors, the grand residence at 26 - 28 Arthur Street has wraparound decks on two sides giving views across Victoria Park and further out to the Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto, with a vista of Auckland’s twinkling CBD towers and lights to the side.
Appreciating that 26 - 28 Arthur Street was something special, Blair Haddow embarked on a cutting-edge marketing programme based on traditional methodologies, which were substantially enhanced by Bayley’s digital technology capabilities to specifically target digital and social media advertising to the mobile phones of high-networth individuals. Blair also drew on the Bayley’s strong
affiliations with global real estate brand Knight Frank and Australian agency McGrath Estate Agents.
Photography of the designer refurbished property was of such a high quality, that Blair received dozens of complimentary emails from real estate colleagues congratulating him on the glamorous yet comfortable portrayal of the home.
The bespoke wide-reaching and technology-driven approach, branded as ‘Bayleys-Super-Prime-Luxury’, paid off. Within three weeks of marketing the incredible Freemans Bay home, Blair Haddow had received enquiries from Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Viewings of the address were by appointment only.
The marketing eventually led to Blair Haddow hosting nine private viewings, further leading to seven offers on the grand property.
“This was definitely the most amazing sale I’ve worked on this year, and is right up there with some of the other incredible deals I’ve negotiated over the years,” confides Blair Haddow.
“Seeing Bayley’s cutting-edge targeted social media and digital marketing dynamics at work, combined with the ability to work alongside Knight Frank in the likes of Europe, North America, South-East Asia and the Middle East, in conjunction with McGrath Estate Agents in Australia, generated a veritable tsunami of marketing activity which enhanced what I was delivering locally,” he said.
“The overall marketing package empowered the vendor to rest assured that Bayleys was truly investigating every opportunity to reach potential buyers of what is a very special home – the likes of which rarely comes along in my specialist Auckland Inner-West patch of St Marys Bay, Freemans Bay, Ponsonby, Herne Bay, Grey Lynn or Westmere. (BLAIR HADDOW) PN www.facebook.com/BlairHaddowResidential
LIMITED ASSORTMENT OF WALLACE ROSE DESIGNER T-SHIRTS
Limited assortment of Wallace Rose designer t-shirts in a variety of short and long sleeved cotton tees, three colourways, three sizes.
Limited edition denim aprons. All available in store now. POA
Specialists in hand-made Cuban products and gifts for men.
Havana House also carries a wide and vibrant range of Habanos, humidors, cutters, lighters, ashtrays, leather carry cases and fine Single Malt Whiskies.
HAVANA HOUSE, 59-67 High Street, Auckland Central, T: 09 357 0037 Facebook: Havana House The Cigar Shop, www.havanahouse.co.nz
1. Siglo 50-Stick Humidor in cobalt blue
2. Siglo V cutter in grey
3. Siglo Opulent ashtray with gold
4. Siglo Snake print leather cigar case 3s in blue
5. Siglo Ashtray by Christian Develter, Jack Nicholson
6. Siglo CC Cutter in gold with silver
7. Siglo Twin flames lighter, year of the rat
For over 60 years, Pacific Environments NZ Ltd has been dedicated to creating places that people love to live in.
Director Clive Chapman and his family have lived in Ponsonby and Grey Lynn for almost 25 years. Moving into Ponsonby proper in 2007, they bought a rundown house on a back section and moved in. Loving the site and the area, Clive and the team imagined what they could create on this site – it took until 2017 before plans for the new house were complete and construction was completed for them to move back in for 2020.
The nature of these rear sites, in Ponsonby, were historically for business premises which meant that buildings would have commonly been tin sheds. The generic architectural form of the building, with a pitched roof, vertical cladding, concrete base and steel details fit with this industrial aesthetic.
The materials were limited to a restrained palette of concrete, steel and timber. We were very interested in all materials being left exposed and in as natural a state as possible. The steel frame is constructed within the external walls. It has been left as a separate element with all its fixings accentuated and painted black. The lower-floor walls are board-impressed, poured in-situ concrete. These were sealed, but otherwise the rough industrial finish is left exposed both inside and out to allow Clive and his family to appreciate its tactile nature. The lower level has ground concrete floors and the ceiling is covered with bespoke acoustic ceilings which feature a block pattern inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright.
The family is lucky enough to have an exceptionally large back yard and the building is designed to allow the whole of the main floor to be able to be opened to the outside.
Sustainably, the house features concrete mass as a heat sink, is naturally ventilated, designed to reuse portions of the original 1950’s house, stores and reuses rainwater and features solar panels with battery back-up.
In 2022, this house was awarded a Highly Commended in the Tida New Zealand Home Awards.
Whether you are looking at a renovation project, or weighing up the options for a new build, we can help. Pacific Environments NZ Ltd understands that every site presents a unique set of challenges, and every building has the potential to be great. Our multi-disciplinary studio will maximise your value – from concept to construction, resource and building consent documentation to interior design, our team of awardwinning architects and interior designers can help bring your vision to reality.
Offering a no obligation consultation, give our team a call today on T: 09 308 0070, and visit our portfolio www.pacificenvironments.co.nz
Do you love where you live but don’t love your house? The team at Pacific Environments can help. From concept to construction, to interior design, our multi-disiplinary team of award winning Architects and Interior Designers can help bring your project to life.
Call today to book a no obligation consultation with one of our Architects.
09 308 0070
info@penzl.co.nz pacificenvironments.co.nz
Photography: Barry Tobin
Simple style... utter elegance.
CE 2 door Media Console
H 76 long leg 60 short leg
L 99 cm
D 30 or 40cm
Internal drawer options
CE 3 door Media Console
H 76 long leg 60 short leg
L 146 cm
D 30 or 40cm
Internal drawer options
CE 4 door Media Console
60 short leg 76 long leg
L 175 cm
D 30 or 40cm
Internal drawer options
DECEMBER GARDEN TIPS AND A CHANCE TO WIN A CHRISTMAS WHEELBARROW HAMPER
The teams at Central Landscape Supplies Avondale/Eastern Bays have some great tips to get your garden Christmas ready, along with the chance to win a wheelbarrow full of Christmas goodies.
Whether you’re growing fruits, veggies or flowers, here’s some practical tips to help your garden thrive this month.
Daily watering is essential, especially for veggie beds. Mulch, like pea straw, helps lock in moisture and keeps soil cool. Bonus tip: mulch around pumpkins and melons to stop their skins from rotting when watered.
Support climbing plants like tomatoes, beans and cucumbers with stakes or trellises. They’ll soak up more sun, stay off the ground and reward you with a bigger harvest. For lettuce, aim for morning sun or light shade to avoid heat stress. Bolting lettuces and herbs may look messy, but they’re a treat for bees and other beneficial bugs – perfect for garden biodiversity.
Check if early potatoes are ready by gently digging into the soil – yellowing foliage is a good sign. Plant sunflower seeds now for a cheerful summer display, whether tall giants or shorter varieties. Protect ripening berries with bird netting and apply organic pest sprays in the evening to avoid harming pollinators.
Add a pop of Christmas cheer with red blooms – petunias, salvias and geraniums do the trick. NZ pohutukawa makes a great alternative Christmas tree, even in pots.
A pre-Christmas mulch session will save you time and water later. For plants looking a little sad, a liquid feed can give them a quick pick-me-up. Water your plants deeply before you leave on holiday, add a thick layer of mulch and move pots into shaded areas. This keeps everything thriving while you're away.
Show your lawn a bit of love by following the 'one-third rule' for mowing: never cut more than a third of the grass height in one go. It keeps your lawn healthy and green during summer.
Come see the team at Central Landscapes Avondale for your garden and landscape supplies this December and enter the draw to win our wheelbarrow Christmas hamper with any instore purchase.
Gary McMillan's recent exhibition at Fox Jensen McCrory in Grey Lynn.
Gary McMillan 'untitled' at Fox Jensen McCrory
Gary McMillan's work in detail
TE URU OFFERS A GREAT DAY OUT FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES
Just a short 20-minute drive from Auckland’s CBD, Te Uru offers a great day out for people of all ages to experience quality art by local and international artists in a most idyllic setting.
Te Uru, for those who haven’t already visited, is Auckland’s second largest public art gallery housed in an architectureaward-winning building that sits at the foot of the magnificent Waitākere Ranges. Over the summer you can enjoy a day of art paired with a visit to one of the many beautiful west coast beaches. Visiting the gallery is free and always a highlight for local and international visitors alike.
On view now through February are two major exhibitions: Liquid States, a stunning survey of works from the 1970s and 1980s by renowned Aotearoa New Zealand painter Gretchen Albrecht, and the Portage Ceramic Awards, an annual exhibition of contemporary ceramics in Aotearoa.
Liquid States is Albrecht’s first survey in 20 years. Held across four gallery spaces, the exhibition includes paintings, watercolours, collages, and drawings that illustrate the significance of liquidity in Albrecht’s practice. With views to the surrounding landscape, Te Uru situates this exquisite exhibition in the landscape that inspired them. Numerous exhibited works were made while Albrecht was living in Titirangi, taking inspiration from local beaches and weather patterns.
The Portage Ceramic Awards was first established in 2001 and has become a calendar highlight for those with an interest in ceramics. Finalist works in this year’s prize range from intimate
functional objects to large-scale installations. The 2025 judge is Kate Newby. Hailing from Te Henga / Bethells Beach and now based in Floresville, Texas, Newby has established a global reputation for her expansive approach to ceramics and sculpture.
“Clay is in my roots. As a child, I drank Milo from a Barry Brickell mug, ate dinner off a Chester Nealie plate and helped my father fire a Warren Tippett kiln. Embedded in my formative years are visits to pottery exhibitions and potteries to view the works of local potters. Now, 35 years later, my journey has brought me full circle. Being invited to judge the prestigious Portage Ceramic Awards is a huge honour.” (Kate Newby, 2024).
Gretchen Albrecht: Liquid States is on view from 3 NOV 2024 - 2 FEB 2025.
The Portage Ceramic Awards is on view from 22 NOV 2024 – 23 FEB 2025.
Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road, Titirangi, Auckland. Open daily, 10am – 4:30pm. Free entry.
TE URU, 420 Titirangi Road, T: 09 817 8087, www.teuru.org.nz
Learn a new skill this summer with Catherine Guevara. Explore a range of pottery methods, such as slab building, coiling, pinch pot, and surface decoration while using multiple carving tools and experimenting with underglaze painting and surface decoration.
14 – 17 JAN 2025 10AM – 2PM $300
Te Uru 420 Titirangi Rd, Titirangi Tāmaki Makaurau teuru.org.nz
Ceramics Summer School Visit our website to book today. Image: Andrew Martushkan
HAERE MAI THE POI ROOM
Come and find refuge from the hustle of the season to be greeted with warm smiles and gifts that have been created close to home, with an eclectic selection that’ll please even the seasoned receiver!
You’re welcome to bring your children to shop with you at The Poi Room, we love to encourage their excitement at the build up to the big day. This year, we have a cute little treasure hunt for tāmariki with the sweetest prize (yes, it contains sugar), to keep them busy while you make your selections.
As always, gift wrapping is complementary, with options for simple gold and white paper or our fabulously colourful Candy Clarke design. Plus, real fabric ribbons in a rainbow of colours.
Don’t forget to grab one of our 2025 Artist Calendars with your purchase! If you haven’t received one of these annual giveaways before, you are in for a treat.
Good old fashioned layby is still available at The Poi Room, and for those extra-special purchases, we do allow you to take pieces ‘on appro’ to see how they work in your space.
For those shopping online, we send everywhere! Your items will be professionally packed to arrive safely at their destination. Just enjoy the nice part, choosing gifts for your loved ones. Try our online Gift Guides if you’re feeling stuck.
Our heartfelt thanks for your support over the year, and our warmest wishes to you and your whānau.
THE POI ROOM, 37 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 378 4364, and 17 Osborne Street, Newmarket T: 09 520 0399, www.thepoiroom.co.nz Follow us @thepoiroom
CRUISING WITH ROSS THORBY
"I
bit my tongue and said nothing..."
With three blasts of our ship's whistle, we backed out into Manila’s harbour under the steely gaze of a setting sun. The colours in the sky were highlighted by a pall of pollution hanging in the upper atmosphere around the island, but at least it made for a scenic sunset. Invisible during the day, the fouling in the heavens did not detract for a minute the excitement that we had experienced in the Philippines.
We set off through the narrow harbour entrance and followed the coast up and into the South China Sea towards our next port of call, Hong Kong – a day’s sail away.
Much has changed in Hong Kong since the hand-over back to the Chinese, or so the British on board would tell you.
The days of picturesque junks plying the harbour and the Chinese lanterns strung across streets full of markets and opium dens, have now given way to commercial buildings and a generic shopping experience that is devoid of any of the old culture that Hong Kong was known for.
The entrance into Hong Kong Harbour, however, is one thing that you can’t change – breathtaking for passengers and a challenge for the bridge team – it is one of the busiest and most dramatic shipping channels in the world. With each turn through the narrow gaps between the islands on the approach, the city is slowly unwrapped and revealed until finally you come around the edge of Kowloon Island where the metropolis is laid bare before you.
It’s a confronting and monumental bank of towering steel, concrete and marble. Colossal scrapers reach for the stars (it is only 5am) and now you realise why, for the Chinese, the return of Hong Kong to them was so important.
Today is another walking day, so once I hit the island, I headed straight for the ‘Peak'.
The Peak is a mountain that towers over the city. At 552m it is not something that I would have considered climbing without aid, although plenty do. In the old days the British would be taken up in sedan chairs by puffing and sweating locals. However, I thought that I might take the less controversial tram which seemed to be a more responsible and less colonial way to get to the top. Here, docked right in the heart of the city next door to the star ferries that ply the harbour from Kowloon to Hong Kong, I was rather taken aback when the young lady at the ticket counter automatically gave me the senior discount.
As I was protesting, I thought with my other brain and realised that the discount would cut the cost in half, I bit my tongue and said nothing.
After admiring the view from the top level overlooking the multitude of apartment blocks, skyscrapers and distant mountain peaks and strategically avoiding the hordes of tourists fighting for the room to take a selfie, I began the long walk down through the bush, the chatter of excited Chinese tourists replaced by bird call and the sound of running water. Great vistas over the city are exposed as you descend this narrow path. It's pretty steep and I was surprised to find a group of octogenarians climbing up, a walking group who do the climb every morning, avoiding the many escalators dotted along the path that go in the direction of the rush hour walkers. Their average age would be an inspiration to any Ryman Villager.
Away from the frenetic pace of Hong Kong – the shopping, the people, the cars, the bikes and life in general, the way down is an island of calm amongst the chaos and includes amongst the charms a sculpture park, an aviary and a zoo and who doesn't enjoy a flamboyance of flamingos.
As the sun began setting behind the towering monoliths and for a last view of the cityscape, it seemed only right to ride the giant ferris wheel situated on the waterfront.
When buying my ticket, the young lady at the ticket counter automatically gave me the senior discount and as I was protesting I thought with my other brain and realised that it cut the cost in half, ”Well, thank you,” I said, “I don’t mind if I do.”
(ROSS THORBY) PN
CHRISTMAS AT ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY
Christmas is a special time of the year at St Matthew-in-the-City.
Everyone is welcome to our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services. The Christmas Eve children’s nativity service returns this year so bring along the kids for some fun and keep an eye out for Santa! Later in the evening, experience the sounds of Auckland City Brass leading carols and Christmas music, followed by the mystery of Midnight as we celebrate the birth of Christ with candles, carols featuring the St Matthew’s voices, and communion.
On Christmas Day, we welcome people of all ages across two different services as we celebrate the wonder of new birth, hope, peace, love and joy for all. Our 8am service is quieter, without music, while at 10am we have lots of music in the service and children are especially welcome. Both of these services will be live streamed, visit our website to find the link.
Have a very blessed Christmas from all of us at St Matthewin-the-City.
ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY, 132 Hobson Street, T: 09 379 0625, www.stmatthews.nz
15 TH DECEMBER
8PM Christmas Readings and Carols
CHRISTMAS EVE
6PM 10.30PM 11.30PM
Children’s Nativity Service
Carols with Auckland City Brass
Midnight Mass
CHRISTMAS DAY
8AM Eucharist
10AM Choral Eucharist
PONSONBY CIVIC SPACE:
THE NEW CIVIC SPACE – DECEMBER 2024 UPDATE
The Community-Led Design group (CLDG) is excited and extremely grateful to mana whenua who have generously gifted Ponsonby Park, the new civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road, its name.
The Waitematā Local Board will formally receive the name at their business meeting on 10 December. We will then be able to reveal this taonga. Ka pai. Nga mihi nui!
Meanwhile, the construction work at Ponsonby Park is progressing well. The urban canopy refurbishment continues and, once completed, this area will deliver an all-weather events space. The soffit and fascia work is underway now that most of the roof structure upgrade, that supports the photovoltaic panels, has been completed.
The new internal fitout of the repurposed toilet block, delivered to the site in November, is now mostly completed too. It, along with the newly constructed storeroom for onsite activation equipment, will then be cloaked with vertical wooden battens. This and the canopy are both examples of sustainable repurposing of existing assets.
A vehicle crossing has been cut through the existing nib wall on O’Neill Street, to facilitate access for on-site activations in the 'flexible urban plaza' area at the front of the site.
The underground services – water, power and sewerage –are all in place. This is good news for our plan to illuminate the site with festive lighting this month.
We have no further information to report concerning the small community garden three local schools have expressed an interest in establishing and looking after at the rear of the site. The CLDG advocated for this desired community outcome, it was actively enabled during the design group’s detailed design work that the Waitematā Local Board (WLB) approved at their 20 February 2024 business meeting. Local residents support this outcome, the well-established Sanctuary Mahi Whenua community garden will umbrella the project and the inimitable Boopsie Maran from ‘Places for Good’ will coordinate the initiative.
We had hoped to provide information about the Waitematā Local Board’s decision-making for this after the community garden was formally requested by deputation at the 18 June WLB business meeting. Unfortunately, we’ve not yet received either confirmation of its approval or an explanation of
reasons for not approving the plans we presented. We are still following up on this and have escalated our LGOIMA. Stay tuned.
So, 2025 will be another busy year for the CLDG as we continue to guide Ponsonby Park through its realisation and activation. But for now, we would like to take this opportunity to thank EVERYONE who has been part of the Ponsonby Park journey to date from the original members of the then Auckland City Council who had the vision to purchase the site in 2006, to Auckland Council who has continued to support the vision of the new civic space through the retention of the entire site and the allocation of the endowment that has enabled the project to proceed, to our previous Ward Councillor Pippa Coom and our current Ward Councillor Mike Lee, to the past and present members of the Waitematā Local Board and their support staff, but most importantly to YOU, our community, who have consistently and continuously engaged with us throughout the Community-Led Design process, supporting us through this long, long journey, we THANK YOU.
We couldn’t have done it without you!
Ponsonby Park, the new civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road, is now well underway and more than halfway through its completion. It will be a place of diversity and inclusion where everyone is welcome. It will be an urban oasis that will be good for the people, good for the environment and good for Tāmaki Makaurau. Soon, this beautiful civic space will be available for all the residents, visitors and local businesses to access, enjoy and flourish in.
The volunteer CLDG wishes you all a happy and safe holiday season, full of good cheer, rest and relaxation. We look forward to continuing our advocacy work for Ponsonby Park, with the long-awaited opening scheduled for next year. BRAVO!
Arohanui.
For more information or to contact the CLDG, see our website 254ponsonbyrd.org.nz or Facebook Ponsonby Park or 254 Ponsonby Road. (JENNIFER WARD) PN
WHOLESALE INVESTORS ONLY
Minimum investment of $100,000
Returns are pre-tax
Maximum lending of 60% of property value
Finbase provides property-related investments for private investors, family offices and high net worth individuals who meet relevant wholesale investor criteria. Finbase on-lends investment funds and take a registered first mortgage over land.
Security: Funds are utilised to provide first ranking mortgages to commercial borrowers for the purposes of short term property projects, typically a maximum 12 month term of any loan. Investors have security over Finbase’s security.
Northcote Point, Auckland
Security description: Four bedroom brick and tile house, located on circa 490m² freehold title
iValuation: $890,000
Purpose of funds: Refinancing the existing lender, plus an equity release for investment purposes
Exit strategy: Sale of property
Security description: Three bedroom residential home, on a cross-lease freehold title
CV: $660,000
Purpose of funds: Funds are being used to settle the purchase of the security asset
Exit strategy: Renovate the security asset, and then sell to repay the debt
Finbase is proud to have never missed an investor interest payment nor suffered a single loss of investor capital.
Security description: 100m² dwelling, on a half share of circa 1,010m² cross-lease freehold land
iValuation: $890,000
Purpose of funds: Balance of funds to settle the purchase of the property
Exit strategy: Repayment in full from borrower’s own cash
We will cover your legal and accounting fees of up to $2,500 to discuss this investment opportunity with your professional advisors, with no obligation for you to invest after doing so.*
