Established: OCTOBER 1989
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!
DECEMBER 2019
ponsonbynews.co.nz
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Chris Batchelor 021 217 7026 | chris.batchelor@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services
INSIDE THIS MONTH
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P15: Held in Grey Lynn, 650 people enjoyed ‘A Night on the Rocks’ Designer Rugs & Premiere Appliances’ joint event. P98: Herne Bay business Soho Wines held their 10th birthday anniversary last month. Pictured is Rachael Carter & team. FROM THE EDITOR DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW RICHARD NORTHEY, WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD PIPPA COOM: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS U3A PONSONBY PREDICT WEATHER.COM NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP
046 064 068 072 080 086 099 111
FESTIVE TRADITIONS HAURAKI GULF FEATURE EAT DRINK & BE MERRY VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL TRAVEL BREAKS FASHION & STYLE LIVING, THINKING + BEING
114 116 118 138 154 162 163
PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS PONSONBY PETS HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN ARTS + CULTURE PEARL NECLIS: HOROSCOPES PONSONBY PINK PAGES
FUTURE GENERATION
PONSONBY NEWS+ is published monthly, excluding January by ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED POSTAL: P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144, T: 09 378 8553 or 09 361 3356, www.ponsonbynews.co.nz Editor/Publisher Distribution Manager Ad Sales & Contributing Editor Advertising Sales/Ad Designer Operations Manager Contributing Music Editor Contributing Editor Proof Reader Designer
MARTIN LEACH; M: 021 771 147; E: martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz JAY PLATT; M: 021 771 146; E: jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz ANDREA KAHUKIWA; M: 021 689 688; E: andrea@ponsonbynews.co.nz MELISSA PAYNTER; M: 027 938 4111; E: melissapaynter@me.com GWYNNE DAVENPORT; M: 021 150 4095; E: gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT; M: 021 134 4101; E: finn.huia@gmail.com JOHN ELLIOTT; M: 021 879 054; E: johnelliott38@outlook.com DEIRDRE THURSTON ARNA MARTIN; E: arna@cocodesign.co.nz
@ponsonbynews @Ponsonby_News @ponsonbynews
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS: WITHIN NEW ZEALAND $49. BY CHEQUE OR POSTAL ORDER IN NZ$. NO CREDIT CARDS. PLEASE NOTE: we do not hold back issues of Ponsonby News. Our archive is all online as a low resolution pdf or from August 2010, as a high resolution E-mag - 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.
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69,000 readers per month (Nielsen Media), 17,000 copies distributed to homes and businesses in... Arch Hill, Ponsonby, Cox’s Bay, Freemans Bay, Herne Bay, Grey Lynn, St Mary’s Bay, West Lynn and Westmere. Plus selected businesses in Britomart, High Street, CBD, Kingsland, Mt Eden, Newmarket, Newton + Parnell.
4 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
LOGAN CAMPBELL RETIREMENT VILLAGE
Serviced apartment living Enjoy the independence of your own home, with a little extra help.
We have brand new one-bedroom serviced apartments available now. They are priced from $450,000 and are located in the heart of the village close to the lounge and amenities.
Is a serviced apartment right for you? • Would you enjoy having a community and entertainment available to you when you feel like company? • Does a daily home-cooked main meal sound like a welcome change, along with help with household chores?
These apartments have a separate bedroom, kitchenette, and private ensuite.
• Would it be reassuring to have help close at hand if you happened to need it?
Along with help with daily living, there is also a range of activities and events on offer as well as outings in the village van to the shops and further afield.
• If your health needs change, could you benefit from help with personal care or day-to-day activities?
• Could you benefit from regular outings or transport to appointments, so you can get out and about with ease?
To find out more phone Lucy or Liz on 636 3883 187 Campbell Road, Greenlane
JOHN & NIC 100% connected to your local market place*
* 96% of our 2019 sales have taken place within 5km radius of our Grey Lynn office.
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Coastal Position Ready to Go! 36 Sunny Brae Cres, Westmere For Sale by Tender
JOHN & NIC
An incredibly rare 623m2 land holding with views and elevation, in one of the most peaceful and private niche addresses in the area. Included in the sale is a full Resource Consent for an exceptional multi-level family plus all documentation required to lodge building consent.
John Wills 021 333 053 Nic Blackie 021 505 964 CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL LTD - Licensed REAA 2008
LETTERS & EMAILS
MIKE LEE’S GERRYMANDERING CLAIM REJECTED The serious allegations of electoral irregularities and Gerrymandering made by Russell Hoban in a highlighted Letter to the Editor of the Herald, and by Mike Lee to explain his defeat, cannot go unanswered. His arguments set out to undermine a number of important democratic principles. Under the Local Electoral Act 2001, councils throughout New Zealand must review their electoral representation arrangements at least every six years. Just like parliamentary electoral boundaries that regularly change over time with population growth, the wards that elect Auckland councillors should be as equal in the ratio of population per councillor as practicable. The Statistics Department found that population growth in the central city made the Waitemataand Gulf Ward ratio 43% higher than the rest of Auckland – so the ward simply had to shrink. It is a fundamental democratic principle that votes should have equal value and that geographical communities of interest should have equal voices at the council table. For Mike Lee to claim that the numbers living in Central Auckland should only be considered on the basis of potential ‘electors’ rather than actual ‘population’ to determine the ward boundary is undemocratic and objectionable. From the time of Premier Robert Stout in 1887 who said “this body is supposed to represent people,” electoral boundary setting has always been based on the total usually resident population there, so that elected members must also represent children, migrants, homeless people and the marginalised in society. The joint governance working group that I chaired made the initial proposals following the representation review but it was the Local Government Commission that was always going to make the final determination. On our Working Party’s recommendation, the Governing Body initially resolved for the Waitemata- and Gulf Ward to lose roughly equal populations to the east in Parnell and Newmarket and to the west in Grey Lynn and Westmere. Public consultation revealed that those in the eastern suburbs were relaxed about the change, some submitters wanted Waiheke and Great Barrier to be moved to the Rodney Ward. There was a strongly supported campaign led by Mike Lee supporters that changed the working group’s proposal and restored all of Grey Lynn and Westmere to the ward. None of us supported the proposal to take out Mike Lee’s heartland on Waiheke, so Grafton was then removed instead to get the ward population down to a number the Local Government Commission could accept. It is outrageous and disappointing of Mike Lee to claim that the Working Party I chaired, but did not always get my way on, then the Governing Body and, above all, the independent body, the Local Government Commission, engaged in ‘Gerrymandering’ to make Waitemata- and Gulf more City Vision friendly. Richard Northey, Former Joint Governance and Representation Working Group chair, City Vision representative and Waitemata- Local Board chair.
ROSE ROAD LAPTOP STOLEN I’m not sure if this is of interest to others. I live on Rose Road and my flatmate’s car was broken into at night and his laptop stolen. His car was parked right outside the house down the busy end of Rose Road near the new Countdown. Might’ve been a one off, might be a continual thing. Anyway, could be of use to other residents. Helena Gilligan, Ponsonby THE PONSONBY CLUB HOTEL I am seeking any persons that had contact with the Ponsonby Club Hotel as I was a barman there in the early 70s and would like to make contact with any staff or patrons that are still going, like me. I frequent Auckland a lot as my business now is connected to the caravan camping shows. My contact is John Feruglio, email: annared@optusnet.com.au LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS I would like to congratulate the Ponsonby News on its coverage of the Local Body Elections and commend all those who stood for election and congratulate all who were successful including Pippa Coom, our new council representative. I would like to acknowledge the service of the retiring outgoing members, Shale Chambers and Denise Roche. I did not agree all the time with what they did but their service to our community is worthy of respect. I especially want to acknowledge our outgoing councillor, Mike Lee, for his outstanding representation in our ward. Mike Lee is the last of a dying breed. He believes in representation, true community consultation and is a straight shooter. He supported from day one a full park at 245 Ponsonby Road which was opposed at the time by the Waitemata Local Board. He supported the retention of street lighting in Western Park and fought for the retention of car parking at Salisbury Park. Both of these issues were opposed by the Waitemata Local Board. There is much more that one could write about Lee and his achievements. I wish him well in his retirement and look forward to his contribution to our city in other ways. Gerry Hill, Ponsonby THE NEW WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD The new Waitemata Local Board has been sworn in. Unfortunately, City Vision has six members (85%) but only received 44% of the votes cast. Also there is no Parnell resident where 15% of the residences are located. It now falls upon the City Vision-dominated board to maintain a high standard of governance which was sadly lacking over the last three years. I have written to the new chairperson (Richard Northey) outlining what I consider to be good governance and confirmed that I will be monitoring and reporting on the board’s performance after each board meeting, the first of which is Tuesday 3 December. I will publish my letter (and any reply) on my website and facebook page in due course. Keith McConnell, Campaigner for Good Governance at the Waitemata Local Board.
Aggravated robbery at Grand Central Bar Police are appealing for information following an aggravated robbery at Grand Central Bar on Ponsonby Road last month. Three armed men with knives and a gun entered the bar around 10.15pm and demanded money. The offenders fled on foot with cash towards Mackelvie Street. All three men were wearing dark hoodies and bandanas to conceal their faces. While no one was injured during the incident, the team are understandably very shaken and are receiving support. Police urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or anyone who has information that may assist this investigation to call Police on 105. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
8 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
FROM THE EDITOR
For us, Christmas is a great chance to gather with family and friends. Our two Scottie’s loved having people around over summer. Sadly, both boys have passed away, but we still think of them all the time – especially at Christmas and when we open the fridge.
This year there be a Christmas tree in Western Park, street flags, tree lights and street pole lights. The Ponsonby Business Association says it is creating magic in our park this year. As Viv Rosenberg says, “We’re turning one of our big, beautiful trees into a non-traditional Christmas tree that will twinkle right through the month of December with thousands of coloured lights.” If you love carol singing, you can join in at Western Park between 14 December and 21 December from 6pm – 8pm. Join the locals for an evening of carol singing under the stars to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. The beautiful Auckland Gospel Choir will be performing under the Christmas tree in Western Park. Next Saturday 7 December is the final Ponsonby Market Day for the year with gift wrapping stations ready to wrap your purchases. The stations will be in full swing on 7, 14 and 21 December from 10am – 3pm at Three Lamps Plaza and outside Ponsonby Central for a gold coin donation in aid of Mercy Hospice. Late night trading starts from 12 December. Richard Northey is the newly elected chair for the Waitemata Local Board. “Thinking globally and acting locally has been an important guiding precept,” says Northey, who supports practical local initiatives to combat climate change – P14. Beverley Morris, a longtime member of U3A, passed away last month aged 96. We send our condolences to all who knew and loved her – P26.
Martin Leach, Jay Platt with our boys - both sadly have long gone
photography: Kloser
We always feel the festive season is here when the Franklin Road lights are switched on, on 1 December each year. This always signifies the start of the holiday season in Ponsonby.
In our news section this month, John Elliott has been checking out all the works currently underway in Picton Street. There are orange cones everywhere and all the locals really want to know is when the work will be complete – P41. Easy summer style is all about taking things at a slower pace and Helene Ravlich shares her suggestions on summer dressing – P86. This month, some of our Ponsonby News readers have shared their Christmas traditions with us and we have curated a range of thoughtful, local gifts to help you with your Christmas shopping – P46. Summer is here and it’s the best time to make the most of the marine playground on our doorstep. Whether you wish to paddle board, kayak, fish or cruise on a luxury charter we have you covered – P64. There is a lot to read in this issue to take you through the long, hot summer. Merry Christmas everyone. Our office will reopen on Wednesday 8 January. PN (MARTIN LEACH) F
May this Christmas season fill your home with joy, your heart with love and your life with laughter!
In 2019 we have worked with over 57 incredible vendors... We have also met & spoken with over 2000 prospective buyers... Without YOU, our job would not be possible. Thank you to each and every person we’ve come in contact with this year - our best year ever!
M AT T & RYA N
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
Matt O’Rourke 021 375 909
Ryan Harding 021 621 580
m.orourke@barfoot.co.nz
r.harding@barfoot.co.nz
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
9
LOCAL NEWS
David Hartnell: One minute interview with Ken Ring Ken Ring as a well-respected weather forecaster and is also a magician. He lives in Herne Bay. Where did your interest in magic start? As a small seven-year-old boy at Owairaka Primary in the 1950s, when we had Norman Tate, the ‘Fun Doctor’, who was a travelling magician. The idea of being a doctor already was highly appealing to me, and a fun doctor even more so. You are a member of the Auckland Brotherhood of Magicians who meet once a month in Grey Lynn. Yes, BAM is the guild of the professionals around the city, who take their art seriously, and has been meeting since 1945. Alan Watson is the president and members meet behind closed doors in Grey Lynn every month. Tell us about mentalist magic? Mentalist magic has the advantage of needing no props because the magic all happens in the minds of the audience, instead of the skilled hands of the magician. As mime is to acting, mentalism is regarded by magicians as a purer form of magic. Do you prefer to do magic for children or adults? Magic for children is more rewarding, in my opinion, because they are more willing to allow themselves the flights of imagination that make a trick successful. It is wonderful to complete a show and to realise that you have convinced a child that the impossible is a reality. Clowns always deny everything, and children appreciate that. What was your childhood like? We lived in Mt Albert which was still dirt roads, near Hendon Avenue, the other side of which was still farm land. In those days you ran barefoot everywhere. I recall riding out to Panmure on my trike to see my cousin. When I was eight, I would catch a tram to town to meet my mother after her work. It cost me a penny. I could just touch the hang-down straps, standing on my tiptoes. Your dream holiday? My dream holiday internationally would be a tour of India. Your bucket list? It is quite honestly blank. I have done all that I set out to do. These days I am glad to wake up in the morning. The most Kiwi thing about you? Love of camping, hanging out at the beach. What job would you do other than yours? I always wanted to be an infant teacher. But they didn’t allow males in the 1960s when I went through teachers college.
Which item of clothing can’t you live without? My Aussie hat. What are you insecure about? The economic future of this country if politicians neglect farmers. Tell us something very few people know about you? I’ve written over 50 books, and I used to be known as a character called Mathman. I put together ‘The Maori Fishing Calendar’ before the internet days, when people still bought small, printed publications at the shop. What is your greatest fear? Not finishing what I start. Your favourite hero of fiction? Robin Hood. He had the right idea. What superpower would you like? To be able to fly would be handy. What special talent would you like? Being able to play the violin. What cliché do you hate? Be yourself. Because who were you before?
What do you dislike about your appearance? I don’t look a bit like Brad Pitt. More like Spike Milligan.
What gizmo can you simply not live without? My juicer.
How would you like to be remembered? As someone who helped with the weather, or inspired people to learn more about the cycles of life.
What is your greatest weakness? Smoked salmon.
What do you love most about your age? The fact that I have lived long enough to see my grandchildren do well. Something you really disapprove of? Child abuse and school bullying. What do you think happens when we die? We are spoken of kindly by those who still remember us, but after 100 years even our name is forgotten. Give your teenaged self some advice? Relax more, slow down, everything will get done. How do you chill out? By watching mindless TV.
10 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
What comfort food gives you real comfort? Chocolate ginger. One dream guest at your dinner party? Sir Isaac Newton. I have some questions for him about gravitation. Do you have a special magic party trick? Not one, but a hundred. You’re all time favourite movie? Raiders of the Lost Ark. The only one I’ve seen five times. If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be? Put all the money wasted on climate change towards mental health. PN (DAVID HARTNELL MNZM) F PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CREATING SPACE FOR WONDER AND CURIOSITY It has been said that the environment should act as a kind of aquarium which reflects the ideas, attitudes and lifestyle of the people who live in it. – LORIS MALAGUZZI At Bear Park, we work hard to create beautiful spaces that enable children to explore, discover, and engage with rich materials. Our learning environments are open invitations for children to participate in exchanges, engage
0800 232 772 www.BEARPARK.co.nz
in authentic learning, and imagine endless possibilities. At Bear Park, imagination and discovery go hand in hand. There is no better place to get the right start.
Love Local This Christmas celebrate and shop in Ponsonby, the community that loves you back. Share your Jingle Mingle Ponsonby stories with
#iloveponsonby
ingle and Mingle in Ponsonby this December Ponsonby Christmas Market Day
Auckland Gospel Choir Carol Singing in Western Park
Sat 7 Dec, 10am–late, Ponsonby Road
Sat 14 & Sat 21 Dec, 6–8pm, Western Park
Choose! Buy! Wrap! At Ponsonby Christmas Market Day. Get it done in one easy step this Christmas. Find the best presents and get them wrapped at Ponsonby Market Day. You’ll be sipping cocktails in no time. Market stalls, music, bargains, Christmas treats and Santa.
Join us for an evening of carol singing under the stars to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. The beautiful Auckland Gospel Choir will be performing under our Christmas tree in Western Park. Pick up a picnic dinner from one of our fabulous restaurants, bring your family and friends, grab a blanket and share some Christmas magic in Ponsonby.
Photo: Find A DJ www.findadj.co.nz
You're busy. We're open late. Thurs 12 December onwards Life is busy so Ponsonby is helping make it easier. Pop in and do your Christmas shopping after work or on your way out. Most of your favourite shops will be open late this Christmas. Please see individual store websites for details.
Get Christmas wrapped up in Ponsonby Sat 7, Sat 14 & Sat 21 December, 10am–3pm Have all your presents beautifully wrapped this Christmas at one of our wrapping stations located at Three Lamps Plaza and outside Ponsonby Central operating from 10am to 3pm. Gold coin donation in aid of Mercy Hospice appreciated.
Here's to Christmas spirit and loving local,
Love Ponsonby
#iloveponsonby
LOCAL NEWS
L to R: Adriana Avendano Christie, Julie Sandilands, Alex Bonham, Graeme Gunthorp, Richard Northey, Sarah Trotman and Kerrin Leoni
Richard Northey: New Waitemata Local Board Chair I had the honour of being unanimously elected Waitemata Board Chair at our swearing in and inauguration on 30 October at the Town Hall. I very much look forward to working with all of you on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I have already become very aware of the depth of passion, skills, values and commitment that all of my fellow board members – Kerrin Leoni, Alex Bonham, Adriana Avendano Christie, Graeme Gunthorp, Julie Sandilands and Sarah Trotman – will bring to the work of this board. Kerrin Leoni, will be deputy chair of the board until late April 2021, and Alex Bonham, who will be the deputy chair from then, and I have come to know the personal attributes and deep knowledge they have to do a great job. Fortunately we begin our work from the shoulders of the giants who have preceded us in this role. In particular, I must express my tributes and deep appreciation for what my two predecessors as chair, Shale Chambers and Pippa Coom, have built and developed throughout our communities from the principles and processes they have applied so well. Shale and his wife Glenda will be sadly missed from local government in Auckland. But we now have a great base and direction to work from. I am also very appreciative of the work and contribution to our area and to local government of the other previous members of this board and especially of our long-serving former ward Councillor Mike Lee. We have just emerged from a long, vigorous and energising election campaign. I want to especially thank Robyn and my family and friends
for their support, to all our City Vision campaign workers, particularly our campaign manager Jeremy Greenbrook-Held, hoardings maestro Louis Mayo, and campaign chair Robert Gallagher, and all the people who voted for City Vision candidates. I also want to thank those who stood against us to provide an alternative, a challenge and a questioning that our democracy needs and which makes our structures and policies more sound; and those who showed their faith in democracy by participating and giving support to alternative candidates. Sarah, although she stood on a different ticket, will have portfolio and other decision-making responsibilities equivalent to those of the other board members. For me, thinking globally and acting locally has always been an important guiding precept. Appropriate, practical local initiatives to combat climate heating through our Low Carbon Network and otherwise, and on homelessness need to be a priority. The board will continue our representation on all our business associations and develop closer formal relationships with resident associations. We need to continue the initiatives and priorities that the previous Waitemata Board has been leading on. We also face many wonderful new challenges and opportunities to work with all of you to make good and lasting things happen in all of Waitemata! (RICHARD NORTHEY) F PN
Contact Richard Northey, Chair of the Waitemata Local Board, northeyr@xtra.co.nz, facebook.com/waitemata
PONSONBY NEWS+ FEBRUARY 2020 + The importance of maintaining good health & treating insomnia + The art of planning for an active & rewarding retirement + Pre-schools, daycares and places to dine & shop that are easy with babies and preschoolers in tow
COPY DEADLINE: MONDAY 20 JANUARY / PUBLISHED: FRIDAY 7 FEBRUARY Call 09 378 8553 to book or email martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz
14 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
OUT + ABOUT
‘A Night on the Rocks’ Designer Rugs & Premiere Appliances’ joint event - Thursday 4 November - Grey Lynn Sponsors: Tanqueray Gin, Johnnie Walker, Clark Estate, Ch’I, The Land & Yacht Bar, Branche Landscape. The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
15
LOCAL NEWS
Pippa Coom: New councillor for Waitemata & Gulf The new term of Auckland Council is well underway with confirmation at the beginning of November of the committee structure and appointments. I’m really delighted to be Deputy Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee working with Chair Richard Hills (one of four committees of the whole, plus all councillors are on the Council Controlled Organisations’ oversight committee). I was also confirmed as a member of the Appointments and Performance Review Committee, the Hauraki Gulf Forum and Auckland Council’s representative on the National Council of Local Government New Zealand. As a new councillor, I had the opportunity to give a maiden speech at our first governing body meeting. Unsurprisingly, the main theme of my speech was focused on the climate emergency. The challenge for this term of council cannot be overstated. Bold leadership is needed like never before. There can be no more business as usual. Our agreed 1.5°C target requires urgent climate action in the next 10 years. Everything has to be seen through the lens of the climate emergency and climate action must be at the heart of all our decision making. All of us as councillors need to be focused and prepared for the challenge ahead. Decisions must be made for the long term, not just the short term. I also covered some of my background as is traditional for a maiden speech. Like 39% of Aucklanders, I was born overseas. I was born in London and raised in a post-war, new town called Hemel Hempstead where my politics were shaped from a young age by the threat of nuclear war, the toxicity of apartheid and the rise of Thatcherism. My family immigrated to New Zealand just after I turned 14. Surprisingly for that difficult teenage period, it was a move I embraced. I immediately felt at home living in Ponsonby and attending Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, where my interests in service and activism were encouraged. I was really pleased that Charmaine Pountney, my principal at AGGS, came along to hear my maiden speech. In 5th form (year 11) I was a founding member of Auckland City Youth Council established under then Mayor, Dame Cath Tizard. Many of the issues we sought to bring a youth voice to, continue to this day
Pippa with Cr Richard Hills Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee but now with increased urgency led by school strike for climate. And, of course, my speech included many acknowledgements and thanks. In the lead up to Christmas I plan to enjoy ‘Jingle and Mingle’ on Ponsonby Road including market day on 7 December and, of course, the Franklin Road lights. This will be the 27th year residents will deck out their homes in extravagant lighting drawing thousands of visitors. Even better, this year it will be possible to experience the lights on beautifully upgraded footpaths after years of construction. Best wishes to all Ponsonby News readers for a restful and safe festive season. (PIPPA COOM, COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF) Contact Pippa Coom via pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Official party enters the Town Hall for the Auckland Council inauguration meeting
16 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Patrick: Passionate about Ponsonby After years around the board room table, Patrick McAteer believes his business background helps him serve his local community. Some people say Barfoot & Thompson real estate agent Patrick McAteer has the luck of the Irish — “but it takes work to make luck happen,” he says. “My Irish surname translates from ancient Gaelic to ‘son of a carpenter’ — so building is in my blood. Whether it’s been building businesses, building teams, or building community I’ve always been willing to roll my sleeves up and get to work.”
The Ponsonby local is loving his role and determined to help his community with their real estate goals. Patrick’s background includes roles in sales and marketing MD of an advertising agency, GM of a music TV channel, CEO of a film company, and a heli-biking guide! So, what’s the connection with real estate? “All those roles required real enthusiasm and a bit of bravery to bring them to life,” he says. “So the first question I asked myself when I became a real estate agent was ‘What can I bring to the property process?’ The answer is simple. Energy!”
“I have always been in business generating relationships. Real estate is no different. It’s about bringing people together, creating a deal, and exceeding people’s expectations.” “Everybody loves talking about property. There’s always a lot of emotion in real estate, even an investment property.
“Whether it’s $500,000 or $5 million, you’ve got to go through the same process. There’s no shortcuts.”
There’s a lot involved. So you need a partner who is going to act on your behalf, you need a professional who understands how to benchmark pricing, how to attract buyers, and how to handle the negotiation.
Patrick is thrilled to be part of Barfoot & Thompson, an Auckland family-run business that has been serving its local community for nearly a century.
It’s all about listening to people, being realistic with vendors, then working with your clients to build a marketing platform and execute the sale.”
Originally from Fairlie in the South Island, Patrick has lived in Ponsonby for 20 years. Married with a 14-year-old daughter, and a 12-year-old son, he mentors young people with their careers and coaches sports. Relaxing means skiing, surfing, or going for a run with Border Collie ‘Fergie’.
He sells all over Auckland, specialising in the greater Ponsonby area — one of the most expensive parts of New Zealand.
It’s not just what you bring to the table... It’s what you do at the table that counts. Get a real negotiator with real business experience to execute an effortless sale. Cheers P.M.
Patrick McAteer: Real Estate Agent p.mcateer@barfoot.co.nz M 021 664 859
Custom Residential Ltd | Licensed REAA 2008
... and loving working with locals - those who are, and those who aspire to be!
OUR CONTRIBUTORS
It’s a team effort... we couldn’t do it without our contributors CLARE CALDWELL
JOHN APPLETON
Clare (Claudie) Caldwell is a creative arts therapist and freelance artist. She also runs a voluntary art and art therapy programme at Auckland City Mission.
I have a keen interest in nutritional medicine and how it may be used to support people with chronic illnesses.
CONNOR CRAWFORD
JOHN ELLIOTT
I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective. I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.
I am the founder of Ponsonby News and write for the magazine. My career has included politics, education and publishing. My interests include the environment, the economy and social justice.
DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM
KEN RING
DEIRDRE THURSTON
KERRY LEE
For the last 53 years I’ve been a freelance entertainment journalist and author. I’ve lived in the Grey Lynn area for nearly three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.
Writer/researcher/coach. Writing and the sea are my happy places. I bow down to natural medicine and animals. My philosophy: love and kindness.
FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT
I work as a booker, promoter and festival programmer. Active in all areas of the music community, folk music is my specialty.
GARY STEEL
I am a veteran writer and editor and run two websites – Witchdoctor and Doctor Feelgood – focusing on my interests in music, technology, and the wellbeing of the planet and its denizens.
My yearly NZ Weather Almanacs began in 1999. During the tragic 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, my work created international interest. I currently live in Ponsonby.
I’ve been a freelance writer for a year now, and what I love most are the wonderful people I’ve meet along the way. #best job.
NIKKI KAYE
I’m the local Member of Parliament for Auckland Central including Waiheke and Great Barrier Island. National Party spokesperson for Education and Sport and Recreation.
PHIL PARKER
Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.
HEIDI PADAIN
PIPPA COOM
More than a nature photographer, I am a storyteller, a visual narrator and environmentalist who seeks out bird stories begging to be told.
I am Councillor for Waitemata- and Gulf ward on Auckland Council. Formerly, Chair WaitemataLocal Board.
HELENE RAVLICH
ROSS THORBY
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.
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.
Join us on Sundays at 2pm... for our weekly service including demonstrations of clairvoyance and afternoon tea.
25 New North Road, Eden Terrace / www.goldenlight.co.nz
20 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Auckland Harbour Bridge
SOUTHBOUND CLIP-ON LANES CLOSED FOR MAINTENANCE 26 December 2019 to 4 January 2020
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency will be carrying out maintenance work, including resurfacing, on the southbound clip-on lanes of the Auckland Harbour Bridge this holiday season. Three lanes in both directions will remain open across the Auckland Harbour Bridge at all times. While work is carried out, southbound access off the motorway will be affected: • The Shelly Beach Road off-ramp will be closed. • Access to Shelly Beach Road via Westhaven Drive will operate on a stop/go system. Delays are likely and motorists are advised to consider using alternative routes along the Northwestern Motorway (SH16) and State Highway 18 (SH18). The resurfacing process used on the bridge requires three to five days to “cure” before traffic can drive on it. While this may look like nothing is happening, the team will be carrying out other maintenance tasks out of sight. Unfavourable weather or other unforeseen circumstances may result in a change from advertised dates. For more information contact help@asm.nzta.govt.nz or call 0800 444 449
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
21
LOCAL NEWS
Grab a coffee Grey Lynn style – grab a koha jar! Want to grab a coffee on the go? Sick of disposable coffee cups? Here is an alternative you can make yourself! Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away (GLWA) and the Grey Lynn Business Association are partnering to help reduce usage of disposable coffee cups in the Grey Lynn district. Brigitte Sistig from GLWA says, “Disposable cups are a major issue for our environment. If you forget to bring your own cup, don’t worry. We are creating coffee mugs from recycled glass jars and making heat-bands from recycled fabric to protect your fingers. Come and join us!� Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away has been an educator and advocate around food waste, single-use plastics and up-cycling business waste into saleable or hireable products since 2008. Tackling disposable, wasteful materials will step up local waste minimisation efforts. Free workshops are planned during the summer school holidays at the Grey Lynn Community Centre and other places. Go to the Grey Lynn 2030 Facebook page to find out more: www.facebook.com/GreyLynn2030. Watch this space!
Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away members at their first workshop trialling the concept of koha jars If you are concerned about waste, are a keen sewer or know how to thread a needle and want to get involved in a super-cool collective community project, contact: infogreylynn2030@gmail.com. We’ll be very happy to hear from you! F PN For more information about the project, visit: www.greylynn2030.co.nz/cup-project
@ Ponsonby Community Centre We’ve got some fun stuff for kids happening at Ponsonby Community Centre over the summer holidays! Kids’ drama classes, cupcake baking, gymnastics and free art classes. Check out our website for more info on the dates, times and associated costs. Events will also be listed on our Facebook page @ ponsycommunity, so ‘like’ us to get updates. A sampler of what is in store below: Head Held High Head Held High holiday programmes are full of fun, learning and creativity for students aged Year 1 to Year 8. The programmes are taught by the same professional, enthusiastic and caring teachers who teach our speech and drama lessons across Auckland during the school terms, and they pack the day with speech and drama games and activities that kids love. Baking class with patisserie chef Tenille Baker The 2.5 hour ‘Cupcake Masterclass’ will teach your child how to bake and elegantly decorate cupcakes. They will learn decorating skills and techniques from a trained patisserie chef. All the equipment, ingredients and an afternoon tea snack will be provided. PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE, 20 Ponsonby Terrace, T: 09 378 1752, www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz
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22 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE
! " PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH PROPERTY IN GREY LYNN AND WESTMERE
For marketing strategies that work in all markets. Call me for a conямБdential conversation.
Luke Crockford
021 277 8565 luke.crockford@bayleys.co.nz
BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REAA 2008
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blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/blair-haddow BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
A LT O G E T H E R B E T T E R
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Residen t ial / Commerci al / Rural / P ropert y Se r v ices
LOCAL NEWS
John Elliott: Richard Northey takes Chair of Waitemata Local Board I had a very pleasant hour with newly elected Chair of the Waitemata Local Board, Richard Northey. I’m sure he will be a very able leader of our local board. Northey is vastly experienced in both national and local politics, having been a Labour Party MP, and served several terms on Auckland City Council and now our local board. The election produced another City Vision-dominated board – six of seven members – which includes four newcomers to City Vision ranks plus Sarah Trotman as the sole representative of Community & Residents. The other CV person re-elected was the hard working, charismatic, community advocate Adriana Christie. She will be disappointed not to get the Deputy Chair role, but is likely to be given the substantial portfolio of parks, sport and recreation, responsibilities she is ready for after working under Shale Chambers on the previous board. Northey is full of praise for the quality of his fellow board members – their depth of passion, skills, values and commitment to the work of the board. Although Richard Northey and Mike Lee have been in a spat over boundary allocations and suspect campaigning, Northey is full of praise for the “enormous contribution to the public life of this city made by Mike Lee.” I have previously criticised the board for its party political caucusing, an activity which will continue under Northey’s guidance. His argument in favour was as much to do with preparing coherent arguments to put to council officers, as it was to thwart political adversaries. It serves little purpose, he told me, to have a member suddenly promote an idea at a public meeting which could easily have been discussed and rejected by the whole caucus before exposing differences in public.
“Eliminating discrimination and barriers and generating equity, opportunity, accessibility and respect for diversity have been prime values of mine,” Richard Northey told me. He has other roles which show his contribution to New Zealand is long and valuable. Northey is Chair of a Community Housing Trust and Chair of the Problem Gambling Foundation. In a brief discussion on proposed referenda, he suggested that, as with poker machine venues, South Auckland would be more likely to be bombarded with marijuana outlets than Remuera – they will spring up in inverse proportion to the number of QCs residing locally. I took the opportunity to push again for the banning of glyphosate. Northey strongly agrees and has vigorously supported cut backs in its use in the Waitemata Board area. As an example of his strong personal belief in equity and inclusiveness he cited parks and recreation policy. New contractors have rigorous KPIs, including hiring unemployed and moving to paying minimum wages. Parks must be accessible to everyone, too. Good paths and tracks for the frail and the elderly, and with suitable playgrounds for old and young, which include differences where desirable for immigrants. Older users should have adequate seating. Music, sports, art and other activities which encourage Aucklanders to get together should also be encouraged. Richard Northey is very complimentary about his predecessors Shale Chambers and Pippa Coom as board chairs, and will not be looking for violent changes of direction. But neither will it be all about steady as she goes. Northey is his own man and will stamp his ideas and ideals on this 2019 elected local board. With the excellent team elected alongside him, I think our community is in good hands. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN
REST IN PEACE, Beverley Morris Christine Hart is president of the Ponsonby U3A and last month she told Ponsonby News about the sad passing of one of the group. “Many of you may already know, but for others we bring the sad news that U3A’s much loved and respected member Beverley Morris died on Tuesday 12 November.
Children’ and ‘Living with Children’ both of which are still sought after.
“Aged 96, Beverley was one of life’s special people. We have known her for only a short time compared to many of our members and I wish I’d had the chance to know her longer. Time and again I hear Beverley was fun to be with, wise and practical, a high achiever, innovative, willing to try her hand at anything and, as everyone attests, blessed with humility. Fortunately, at our 25th anniversary in July this year, we were able to tell her how much we appreciated her. She was awarded a well-deserved, honorary life membership.
Beverley joined U3A in 1995 when she and her husband moved north to be closer to family. He became president and Beverley provided the food and tea until she became convenor of the art history group for 20 years. She’s described as a creative, an ideas woman, someone who steps into the breach in times of crisis. Small wonder that Beverley has been awarded the QSO for her work in the community and Play Centre and the CNZM.
“Those who were at this celebration will have heard something of her life and the legacy she leaves. To recap: Beverley went to Teachers’ College, then while raising four children she went part-time to university. Heavily involved with the Play Centre movement, she eventually became President of the NZ Play Centre Federation.”
When asked at U3A’s 25th anniversary what belonging to U3A had meant to her she said, “U3A has helped me stay young. I am now 95 and my brain is getting used.” And use it she did. How we shall miss her kind and gentle demeanour at U3A.
At 44, Beverley became a lecturer at Victoria University Department of Continuing Education where she stayed for 22 years. In a one year sojourn in the UK she was instrumental in the UK adopting the New Zealand model of play groups. She wrote two books, ‘Understanding
There will be a memorial celebration of Beverley’s life on Tuesday, 3 December from 1pm to 3pm in the Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Street Reserve, Herne Bay. (CHRISTINE HART, PRESIDENT U3A) F PN
26 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
LOCAL NEWS
John Elliott: Vernon Tava launches Sustainable New Zealand Party Most recently, Vernon Tava was a member of the Waitemata Local Board. He has had central government ambitions for some years. Tava, as a Green Party member, stood for the male co-leadership when James Shaw won. Part of his policy pitch on that occasion was that the Greens did themselves a disservice by positioning themselves to the left of Labour, precluding any possibility that they could go with National in an MMP coalition. Tava’s mantra was that many environmental issues were neither left nor right, and if New Zealand wanted to protect its precious flora and fauna, a party more directed to environmental policies than social justice ones, could partner with either major party in New Zealand. The Green Party firmly rejected that view, stating that National’s economic policies were incompatible with Green principles around inequality, social justice and fairness. More recently, Tava was nominated for National in the Northcote byelection. He was not successful. The Sustainable New Zealand policy priority is ‘the environment’. The three top priorities are: 1. Safe, healthy water that sustains life. 2. Save our native species from extinction. 3. Create sustainable economic growth. Vernon Tava is a highly intelligent law graduate from Auckland University. He speaks and writes well. He is more quiet and thoughtful rather than flamboyant. So where will this new party get its votes and how successful will it be? Tava’s belief that environmental issues are neither left nor right is problematic. While major parties of both stripes push the mantra of perennial growth, the environment, on a finite planet, can not sustain this obsession with growth. National still has so many irons in the fire
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
of economic growth using oil, gas and coal, it is hard to see anything other than mostly green wash coming from that party. National wants to further reform (some want to abolish) the Resource Management Act, which does provide some safeguards against unwise development. Where it is possible to bowl over hundreds of trees in the pursuit of the almighty dollar, including coastal pohutukawa, the environment will always suffer. Under National, the Resource Management Act will become the Resource Development Act, and Tava’s saving of flora and fauna bid will be impossible. How will Tava’s new party stop that in the interest of endangered species? It may be politically unhelpful for the environment for the Greens to sit to the left of Labour, giving them few coalition options, but so many of their important social justice policies are integrally tied to environmental concerns. A fair and just society, for all living creatures, is not just about making money. Certainly, sustainability is best decoupled from economic growth. I recommend Vernon Tava reads and absorbs Tim Jackson’s excellent book, ‘Prosperity Without Growth’, which tackles this issue. Jackson is Professor of Sustainable Development at the University of Surrey, UK, and Director of the Centre for the Understanding of Sustainable Prosperity. Jackson’s book has received plaudits from some top international figures like Naomi Klein, Herman Daly, Noam Chomsky, Clive Hamilton and Bill McKibben, among many others. I wish Vernon well. He may cannibalise the green vote, hopefully not to under 5%, and will probably pinch environmentally interested voters from National – some of the so-called blue-greens. The remaining question is whether a party will offer him a seat, a la ACT in Epsom, so he does not need 5% to enter parliament and be PN a coalition partner. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
27
At age 15, Paul Huege De Serville had a haircutting experience that inspired him to become one of Australasia’s most revered hairdressers and teachers. Servilles has appeared on the front cover of international hairdressing bible ‘The English Hairdresser’s Journal’ 10 times and Servilles salons have received more awards than any other hairdressers in Australasia. His passion for helping shape the local industry spawned the Servilles Academy, gaining the admiration and respect of his peers. His reputation for excellence on the salon floor, as an educator and as a businessman over the last 50 years has seen the Servilles’ name become synonymous with excellence and the ultimate salon experience. Most recently, this has led to the evolution of a new Servilles Ponsonby salon.
Paul Huege De Serville demonstrating to students
LOCAL NEWS
The evolution of a Ponsonby icon
The iconic Servilles Ponsonby salon is on the move from the corner of Ponsonby Road to the creative hub of Sale Street; a move that’s in keeping with Paul’s philosophy of creative innovation and a need to keep things fresh and relevant. The new Ponsonby salon at 18 Sale Street is designed to make the most of its impressive proportions while still maintaining a friendly social atmosphere. Due to open at the end of January, it will see the entire Ponsonby salon team filling the chairs as well as some past favourites returning to the Servilles’ family. “It’s what everyone brings to the room that counts and our people bring their whole being,” says Paul. A favourite senior stylist for many years at Servilles Ponsonby, Monique Hoareau will be re-joining the Servilles’ family when the salon opens in Sale Street. When I ask Paul to describe or define what sets Servilles apart, he explains that it is the commitment to make a positive impact on people’s lives. “I don’t mean only the staff, but also our staff’s families, our students at the Servilles Academy and, of course, our clients,” says Paul. It’s part of a determination to leave behind a legacy. “I hear statements like Steve Hansen wants to leave the All Blacks in a better place than when he arrived. I admire the All Blacks’ culture and the way they hold the team together with their values. I’ve always wanted us to be the All Blacks of the hairdressing world with the training of our hairdressers and commitment to excellence,” explains Paul. Since it began in 1993, the Servilles Academy has produced many award winning and successful graduates, many of whom have opened salons locally and around the world. One past graduate, Aaron de May, worked on the Kardashian wedding, and is now responsible for Calvin Klein’s collection. Another, Michael Ashton, was Adele’s fulltime hairdresser and is now creative director of makeup for Marc Jacobs. “Micheal was back here last year with Adele and I got him to talk to about 200 kids and share his story. When he was at his mother’s place, he found the inspiration chart he’d done while he was at the academy, outlining what he wanted to do and where he wanted to go. He put it up and it was really lovely to see,” says Paul. “We want to make an impact on people’s lives. When I was 15, Neville Spence wouldn’t have realised it at the time but the salon experience he gave me was so amazing that it made me want to be a hairdresser and made me want to make people feel as good as he made me feel about myself. That’s the basis for it,” says Paul. Determined to follow his passion, Paul worked for free for weeks until he convinced Neville to give him a job and so his journey began. “We [the Servilles team] all have that same
28 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
commitment to make sure every time a person comes into Servilles they are to be treated like it’s their first time and they should have an amazing experience,” says Paul. (ANDREA KAHUKIWA) F PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
The new space at 18 Sale Street
AFTER 25 YEARS, SERVILLES PONSONBY IS RELOCATING IN EARLY 2020 servilles.com
LOCAL NEWS
Victoria Park Market lights up for Christmas Experience the magic of a Kiwi Christmas right in the heart of Auckland. The iconic Victoria Park Market is lighting up for Christmas throughout December and Santa will be in residence each night to welcome families and pose for Christmas photos. “So many people have fond memories of Victoria Park Market in its heyday. This is a chance for a whole new generation to create special Christmas memories at one of Auckland’s most historic landmarks,” says Deborah Delaney, spokesperson for VPM. In addition to regular Christmas trading, every Thursday night in December Victoria Park Market will be home to a special family focused, European-style Christmas market. Visitors can enjoy the festive lighting, food and craft stalls, Santa’s grotto, face painting, live entertainment and street performers. Located just metres from the base of Ponsonby’s Franklin Road, Victoria Park Market will offer an exciting Christmas-themed destination designed to extend the magic of the nearby Franklin
Road Lights which attracts tens of thousands of people to the area every year. The Thursday night Christmas markets will offer an eclectic variety of gourmet food and refreshments from stalls and restaurants and a range of unique crafts and affordable gifts making it easy for visitors to indulge in early Christmas shopping. Featuring the tallest chimney in Auckland, the historic site will be home to Santa and his helpers; and the chance for kids – young and old – to be photographed with Santa is guaranteed to be a popular drawcard. Christmas time at Victoria Park Market promises to be a sensory celebration and a must-see, feel-good experience for people of all ages. F PN For more information www.victoriaparkmarket.co.nz
Meet us at Victoria Street Market — Auckland’s original marketplace
DICE & FORK GAMES BAR AND EATERY - SHOP 10A
Serving great cocktails, New Zealand craft beer, delicious food and boasting over 250 board games, Dice & Fork is the perfect place to meet up with friends, hold large functions, enjoy a quick lunch or even your next date night!
FOUR SHELLS KAVA ROOM AND SHOP - SHOP 12
Auckland City’s first kava room and shop. Stocking and serving only the highest-quality kava from the South Pacific Islands. www.fourshells.nz
www.diceandfork.co.nz
HELENA MARIE TAROT - SHOP 13
HEMISPHERE SPORTS BAR - SHOP 36A
www.facebook.com/helenamarie.tarot
www.hemispheresportsbar.com
Experienced tarot card reader specialising in energy work, spirituality and holistic health services. Tarot readings, Reiki energy healing, relaxation massage, aromatherapy using Ayurvedic massage and Guasha Chinese massage techniques. We also sell an uplifting selection of crystals, Tarot and Angel card decks, fragrant soy candles and aura mist sprays to raise your energy vibration.
30 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
Boasting eight large screen TV’s and a state-of-the-art audio visual system, Hemisphere Sports Bar is the perfect spot to grab a drink and a bite before the game or just gather and celebrate with friends. With three different areas offering an unparalleled atmosphere, Hemisphere Sports Bar is the perfect venue for any type of gathering or celebration.
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
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LOCAL NEWS
John Elliott: Which Democrat will face Trump for President in 2020? The race for the Democratic Party nomination for US President next year is on in earnest. Up until a few weeks ago there were more than 25 candidates in the field. Many have failed to excite voters and raise enough money to continue and have dropped out, but as I write this piece there are still 16 in the field. Democrats want a candidate who shares their values for America, but they also urgently want someone who can beat Trump. So, electability versus policy is an important dilemma for many democrats. Almost every day new polls emerge. Since early this year, three candidates have led the field – former vice president Joe Biden, senator Bernie Sanders, and senator Elizabeth Warren. These three are attracting between 20 and 25% of the vote each. A young, gay man who is Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, a city of 100,000 people, Pete Buttigieg, is polling fourth and rising. At 37, an Afghanistan veteran, and more moderate than Sanders and Warren, he has developed a large following among moderates who think Biden is too old. Buttigieg is raising lots of campaign money from small donors. The rest of the declared field are polling in single digits and look to have no chance. It is still three months until the first primary in Iowa on 3 February and so much could change in that time. So what are ‘primaries’? The democratic candidate will be chosen state by state. Delegates, the numbers determined by the size of the state, will take their vote to the Democratic National Convention on 13 July 2020, where the nominee will be selected. The first state to vote will be Iowa on 3 February with 49 delegate votes, followed by New Hampshire with 31 delegates. Then will follow so-called Super Tuesday on 3 March when 15 or 20 states vote, including big ones like California with 546 delegate votes and Texas with 258. Super Tuesday will weed out most of the field, possibly leaving only two or three candidates to continue the fight. It may even determine the winner. Finally, the democratic nominee will be selected from pledged delegates at the Democratic National Convention where total delegate numbers will be about 4300, with more than half needed for a win. There are also super-delegates, party officials who can vote however they wish at the National Conference – about 500 of them. Historically, they have not gone against the pledged delegates’ state votes. Both Biden and Sanders have high name recognition, but are in their late 70s. Biden has produced some stumbling performances in recent debates, while Sanders had a heart attack and a stent implanted several weeks ago. Biden’s strength is his eight years of Vice Presidential loyalty to Obama. This makes him particularly popular
32 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
among African Americans who are a very important constituency for the Democratic Party. So what about Elizabeth Warren? She is my pick. She is also no spring chicken at 70 years, but is fit, a brilliant speaker, witty and has announced the most comprehensive policy proposals of all candidates. “I have a plan for that,” has become one of her catch cries. Warren has headed off Sanders in recent polls, and has bested Biden in several. She is on the up, and is now becoming a target for her opponents who see her as a potential nominee and have begun to criticise her. Some democrats think she is too left-wing to beat Trump. Warren is still not a household name in the US, but her name recognition is growing fast. She has built a formidable grassroots team, and is raising millions of dollars for her campaign. Unlike Biden, she has eschewed money from large corporates. Elizabeth Warren has been a Senator for Massachusetts since 2012, when she beat the incumbent republican, Scott Brown, who is now Trump’s ambassador to New Zealand. Before that, Warren was a Law Professor at Harvard University. Supporters, and Warren herself, credit her time as a primary school teacher in her home state of Oklahoma for teaching her how to communicate well with students. She can be a bit preachy but has a clear and witty speaking delivery. Although some Democrats think Warren is too politically liberal, she has declared herself a capitalist (unlike Sanders who calls himself a democratic socialist). Still, Warren would hit the wealthy with new taxes, including a 2% tax on households with over $50 million, rising to 3% on portfolios over $1billion. Much of the extra tax revenue would go towards a comprehensive Medicare-for-all policy which is Warren’s signature plan. Trump’s support is falling all over the US, but he still has a hard core of dedicated supporters, so he will be no pushover in 2020. Poll match ups with leading Democratic candidates show Biden, Sanders, Warren and Buttigieg all beating Trump in theoretical headto-head votes. It’s a long process and history shows that leading candidates can be derailed at any time. Much also hangs on the outcome of the current impeachment trial now in progress. Can Trump be derailed? (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
LOCAL NEWS
@ Grey Lynn Business Association Grey Lynn – leading sustainable and ethical business. GLBA’s Chair, Paul Stephenson, at our recent AGM outlined the vision and intent for Grey Lynn to become Auckland’s hub for ethical and sustainable business. Many of the 3000-plus businesses in Grey Lynn are already committed to making sustainable practices an integral part of the way they operate. This movement is only going to get bigger. For example, the new board of the Grey Lynn Festival is promoting the event as a platform to increase environmental awareness, develop related education programmes and bring together leading sustainability groups. For a lot of businesses this focus is about building on what’s already working. However, there is a lot more we can do to develop opportunities for our local businesses and community and GLBA is determined to collaborate with others who share the same vision. Our new Grey Lynn Festival Board 2020 is the 10-year anniversary of the GLBA’s official recognition as the representative body for Grey Lynn businesses and following our AGM we have a great new board in place with skills and expertise aligned to our vision – the Grey Lynn Project. Each board member is in charge of an aspect of the Grey Lynn Project dedicated to improving our businesses and community, such as: • Improving our local Grey Lynn streets and cityscape. • Building sustainable and ethical businesses. • Running networking and business improvement events for local businesses.
• Enhancing our creative community through collaborations with artists and musicians and including GL in Artweek 2020. • Advocacy and issues management for urban redesign, safety and security, traffic management for large events and the new Restricted Parking Zone proposals. • Collaborating with agencies and stakeholders such as Auckland Council, the Waitemata Board, AT and ATEED, the Grey Lynn Residents Association, Grey Lynn 2030, etc. Our 2020 work programme Our planning includes at least eight business-focused networking events on issues that create opportunities and build value for businesses in the area. We are also focused on continuing to present and advocate on the issues which matter to those who are part of both Grey Lynn businesses and the wider community. In the first part of 2020 we are working on: • Building resilient business networks – including a new natural health and fitness collaborative focused on linking all of the natural foods/fitness/ health entities so they can explore opportunities for common gain. • Increasing community collaboration – creating shared projects where local businesses, the residents’ association, Grey Lynn community markets and GL2030 can work together on common goals. • Advocacy/lobbying/promotion of GL – promoting Grey Lynn as the ‘Destination of Discovery’ in marketing material, including the new City Fringe App that is being developed by ATEED and the Waitemata Board to inform people about the business and events/attractions on offer in places like Grey Lynn. Remember to shop local, support our retailers, cafes and restaurants and services – let’s continue to make our Grey Lynn community a great place to eat, drink, work, shop and play in. Looking forward to 2020 and to our 10th anniversary celebrations. Finally, we wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. F PN
A MEETING PLACE - For conferences, seminars, meetings, workshops or launches - Situated in a central location with five versatile meeting rooms - AV equipment and Internet access available - Extensive parking available - Since 2001 the St Columba Centre has gained a reputation as a centre of excellence and as such has become a location of choice for many organisations
For enquires please email irene@glba.co.nz, www.glba.co.nz
FOR ENQUIRIES AND RESERVATIONS 09 376 1195 COLUMBA@CDA.ORG.NZ 40 VERMONT STREET PONSONBY, AUCKLAND SAINTCOLUMBA.ORG.NZ
AGM 2019 GLBA The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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LOCAL NEWS
Ponsonby U3A – November 2019 New Zealand’s first clinical trial of CAR T-cell therapy, a revolutionary new approach to fighting cancer, was explained to members of Ponsonby U3A at their November meeting by guest speaker Gay Keast, Development Operations Manager of the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. The ground-breaking trial is the culmination of three years of work by the institute’s clinical trials team and is a major step in the development of the institute’s cell therapy capabilities. The Malaghan Institute is an independent biomedical research institute based in Wellington. Its name, Malaghan Institute, is in recognition of generous support by Len Malaghan, the co-funder of Tip Top Ice Cream, and his wife, Anne, whose gift of 100,000 shares in the company seeded the institute. It is located in a purpose-built building at Victoria University. Two thirds of its hundred staff are scientists, as well as Masters and PhD students and post doctoral fellows. Gay Keast (pictured) outlined the institute’s world-leading biomedical research which focuses on breakthrough discoveries in immunology and immunotherapy. “We focus on harnessing the power of the immune system in our key research areas including cancer, asthma and allergy, gut health and brain health.” She gave an overview of the third generation CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial which is a promising cancer cure, and the hookworm clinical trial which is to discover the therapeutic potential of human hookworm. With only a 10-minute time frame to speak, U3A member Ruth Busch soon showed she had more than one fascinating topic to share – her upbringing in the Bronx as the child of Holocaust survivors and that of her stellar career in New Zealand encompassing her work on domestic violence since she migrated here in 1982. She entitled her talk ‘What’s love got to do with it? Working to protect children
from domestic violence’. An expert on family law, she was Associate Professor of Law at Waikato University for 26 years. She wrote the report which founded the basis of the Domestic Violence Act 1995. In 1994 her work on the Bristol Ministerial Enquiry led to the enactment of the violence provisions in the Care of Children Act. In the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours she was awarded a New Zealand Order of Merit for services to domestic violence prevention and the State. As well as her work on the Domestic Violence Act and the Bristol Ministerial Enquiry, her citation includes being commissioned by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs to review the law on protection orders. In 2018 she joined the Ministry of Justice’s Expert Reference Group which examines the efficacy of family justice reforms implemented in 2014. With so much to tell, Ruth Busch has agreed to speak again at the December U3A meeting – this time concentrating on her Bronx upbringing. Ponsonby U3A is now happily ensconced in the St Columba Centre in Vermont Street, which will be the venue for the last meeting of the year on 13 December, the members’ Christmas lunch party and entertainment. A highlight of 2019 was the awarding of Ponsonby U3A’s first Honorary Membership for contribution to U3A and the community to Martin Leach, editor and publisher of the Ponsonby News. The first meeting for 2020 will be held on Friday 8 February. Anyone wishing to come to the February meeting as a guest to see the work of U3A is welcome, but you are asked first to make contact with Christine Hart. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F PN NEXT MEETING: 10am Friday 13 December at St Columba Centre, 40 Vermont Street, Ponsonby. Members’ Christmas function. ENQUIRIES: Christine Hart, President, Ponsonby U3A. M: 027 289 5514. www.u3a.nz
Lucia Mataia – Tena koutou and Merry Christmas from the team at Leys Institute Library The Great Summer Read This month, Auckland Libraries kicks off ‘The Great Summer Read’ which runs until the end of January. There are 10 fun reading challenges and 10 prize draws. What are you waiting for? Pop into the library or online and take up the challenges open to teens and adult Aucklanders to fire up their reading. Ponsonby Market Day Saturday 7 December is around the corner and in the spirit of giving we will be handing out library cards and encouraging those of you in the hood to cross the road to the library and activate your library membership. Or pop online for an e-membership which gives you access to e-books, e-audio, e-magazines, e-newspapers and online databases. Kia maia Te Whai Dare to Explore – summer reading for children ages 5-13 years. A popular programme which encourages reading over the long summer. Teachers love this programme because it means that the children keep up with their literacy and also have fun activities to complete on holiday. Drop in and grab a booklet.
Book Chats We have a diverse range (as always) of books for you. New Zealand musician Shayne Carter’s memoir Dead People I Have Known comes with the recommendation, ‘one you should read’. Still in the genre of memoir but completely different is A Cotswold Family Life by Clare Mackintosh. This is an account of eight years of living on a farm in the picturesque Cotswolds. It has been described as a ‘comfort read’ and could be a book to take away on holiday. Moving on to fiction: Ocean Vuong’s ‘lyrical and beautiful’ novel On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, has won rave reviews and not just from Book Chats. We have a break in December and are back again on 23 January. Maybe next year you would like to join us – we have great books, conversations and biscuits. We meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month, at 10am. Christmas/New Year Library Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm, Closed: Wednesday 25 December and Thursday 26 December, Closed: Wednesday 1 January and Thursday 2 January. F PN
THE LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz
34 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
LOCAL NEWS
Ken Ring: Auckland weather diary, December 2019 – weather by the moon Apart from a five or six day dry spell in the second week, December should be mainly wet, with more than twice the rain average (200/77mm). It may be cloudier and warmer than normal. After a dry start, heavy rain dominates the rest of the first week. The second week should be the driest, but a heavy fall near 13th ends a dry spell. The third week follows the pattern of the second, with a downpour around 20th. The warmest day may be 18th (24°C), but temperatures may briefly drop around the 20th. The rest of the month is unsettled, with rain expected almost every day. Christmas Day falls on a new moon day, which could be clear and the month’s coolest day, although the previous night may be wet. The barometric average may be 1014mbs, and the average humidity 83%. The average wind is from the southeast. For fishermen, the highest (king) tides are on the 26th, with a lesser kingtide on the 14th. The best fishing bite-times (in the east) are at dusk on the 11th-13th and 25th-28th, and in the west at around noon on those days. Chances are also good in the east for noon of the 3rd6th and 18th-20th, and in the west around dusk of those days. For gardeners, there are no good sowing intervals this month, because the waxing moon will not be ascending. The only pruning day is the 12th when the waning moon is descending. If harvesting for longer shelf-life, choose lower water-table (neap) days of the 5th and 20th. JANUARY 2020 January starts the year with a total of nearly twice as much rain than average (135/75mm), but with average sunshine and average temperatures.
After a dry New Year’s Eve and day, the first week descends into rain and ends on a wet note. The second week is the driest in the month and sees a clearing after a wet start. The third week is the wettest, and in the last days of the month a heavy downpour arrives. The barometric average may be 1007mbs, and the average maximum temperature is 23°C. The warmest day may be the 15th at 27°C. The average wind is from the south. Allow 24-hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING) F PN For future weather for any date, see www.predictweather.com
Streets Ahead • • •
Elite Performer 2019 Top 5 in Ray White Damerell Group (2017, 2018, 2019) National Marketing Excellence (2015, 2017)
(Licensed REAA 2008)
Chloe Wither & Scott Wither Licensee Salespeople
021 672 191 | 021 225 5988
T 09 376 2186 | A 259 Ponsonby Road | W rwponsonby.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
35
LOCAL NEWS
Kerry Lee: Is New Zealand a soft touch for refugees and asylum seekers? And how many people can we keep taking in, especially when you consider New Zealand’s growing population and our current housing crisis? According to the 1951 UN Convention relating to the status of refugees, every asylum seeker has the legal right to claim asylum in New Zealand. Unfortunately, not everyone meets the standards needed to qualify. Which are quite high according to Tim Maurice, the general manager of the Asylum Seekers Support Trust (ASST). To meet the criteria for refugee status, they have to have a genuine fear of persecution if they’re returned to their homes. “This fear can be based on race, religion or the politics of their country and each case is accessed by Immigration New Zealand.” For every application received, 30% get accepted, and the remaining 70% are turned away. 70% is an incredibly high percentage and it seems to put the question of a soft touch to rest. But what happens to the 30% that gets accepted? The ones that do make it, originate from two distinct groups, these are either asylum seekers or what are known as quota refugees. Quota refugees come in through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) programme. If accepted, they’re put through a six-week orientation to help them acclimate to our country. They’re also given housing and New Zealand residency so they have access to financial assistance once they arrive. They’re also given volunteers for a year that can help them with things like furniture and to help them settle into the community. Asylum seekers, on the other hand, are given substantially less support. Once they arrive in New Zealand, it can take up to three months to a year before a decision is made on their refugee status. In the meantime, it’s up to them to apply for residency and, until then, they’re not able to take advantage of some of the benefits that a quota refugee would have access to.
Tim explained that the reason they got so little support compared to quota refugees was that the Government believed that since they were already in the country, they didn’t need any help. “The problem is that while they’re sitting around and waiting for a decision to be made, they aren’t able to earn any money, or gain any assets or to learn about the country. They also need support to help integrate themselves into our society.” When I asked what steps could be taken to help them, Tim felt that the Government could give asylum seekers access to the same level of support that quota refugees were given. “Give them the same rights that quota refugees get access to so that they’re all the same.” (KERRY LEE) F PN
If you would like to help Tim, or if you’d like more information on the Asylum Seekers Support Trust, please visit www.aucklandrefugeecouncil.org/
Sunday mornings at the Grey Lynn Community Centre 510 Richmond Road
36 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
OUT + ABOUT Cristian Lapolla, John Ryan (Tonic Tiles) and Luca Vancini
@ Tonic Tile Lounge Official opening - Thursday 7 November Architects, designers and the team from Tonic Tiles, celebrating their official opening. From Italy, Cristian Lapolla and Luca Vancini representing the brand Imola Ceramiche. Presenting their new releases fresh from Cersaie the tile fair in Bologna, Italy. TONIC TILE LOUNGE, 254 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, T: 021 644 728, www.tonictiles.co.nz
Advent Oasis: Come and find space with us this Christmas at St Stephenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ponsonby (people not programmes). The world gets busier and louder, so come breathe, grab a coffee at the door and find a space in this crazy season. Hear real stories from people about faith, hope, love, joy and peace in our fast-paced, 21st Century world. We will also be looking at one spiritual discipline each week to help us find peace within ourselves, with God and each other this season. Advent Oasis. Advent happens each Sunday in December at 10am. We launched Advent by turning on our Jervois Road-facing lights late last month. We will also be debuting an Aotearoa (New Zealand) themed nativity. This will be erected on our Jervois Road lawn. Each week a new character will appear in front of the backdrop, with the final character on Christmas Day. Most nativities are western with western characters, we have re-imagined the nativity in an early Aotearoa context, inspired by the art of Peter Gossage. Our two Christmas services are on Christmas Eve at 11pm which is an atmospheric candlelit service. Then we have a family friendly, short service on Christmas day at 10am. Come and find your space with us this Advent. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d to love to see you and make space for you. F PN ST STEPHENS, 65 Jervois Road, T: 09 360 1728, www.ststephensponsonby.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS Thank you for your support in 2019 A LT O G E T H E R B E T T E R
Bayleys Ponsonby | 09 375 8650 305 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby | bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Pania Papa, Trustee Kotahi Rau Pukapuka Trust
Residen t ial / Co mmerci al / Rural / P ro pert y Ser v ices
LOCAL NEWS
Ponsonby Park – December Update It has been an exciting year with a great deal of progress made towards realising Ponsonby Park – the civic open space at 254 Ponsonby Road. So as 2019 draws to a close, we thought it a good time to take stock of some of the things that have been achieved this year. The Project Control Steering Group (PCSG) is well underway with its work on preparing the business case and is meeting regularly. We are pleased with the progress that has been made to date and the ‘cando’ attitude of everyone around the table.
endowment property and some of the funds being allocated to the Ponsonby Park project. Brilliant!
LandLAB continues to be involved as their Park+ concept design progresses through the business case process. This has proved to be indispensable as the inevitable constraints presented by the condition of the existing structures, the viability of their repurposing and the need to find creative solutions to these challenges has presented.
1. Seek community feedback on the business case options
At the time of writing, the Community-led Design (CLD) group expects to be approaching you, our community, soon with information about what has been discovered through the business case process and asking for your feedback and input. So keep a lookout for consultation announcements via: -
our Facebook pages, Ponsonby Park and 254 Ponsonbyrd
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our website 254ponsonbyrd.org.nz
-
notification on our Ponsonby Park noticeboard, that is on-site next to Dizengoff cafe by the bus stop
-
the Neighbourly.co.nz noticeboard
-
plus we will send out an email notification to all of those already on our extensive digital database
A significant outcome this year has been the allocation of additional funds to enable the development of the new civic space to be completed in only one stage, instead of two stages as initially required. This has been made possible by council selling an
The next steps are:
2. Present the business case to the Waitemata- Local Board 3. Take the approved business case to the Finance and Expenditure Committee for approval 4. Start on-site work to create Ponsonby Park in July 2020 There are now only eight months to go before physical work is scheduled to begin on site at 254 Ponsonby Road. What a great year 2019 has been – but not as good as next year will be when we finally begin realising the dream of Ponsonby Park that so many of you have supported and nurtured for such a long time. To everyone who has been part of the journey to date – from the original members of the then Auckland City Council who had the vision to purchase the site in 2006, to the current Auckland Council which has continued to support the vision of the civic space through the retention of the entire site and the allocation of the endowment funding, to our generous Ward Councillors Mike Lee and our newly minted Councillor Pippa Coom, to the past and present members of the Waitemata- Local Board and all their support staff and, most importantly, to you our community, who have consistently and continuously engaged with us through the CLD process, supporting us through the long journey to get to where we are today – THANK YOU! We couldn’t have done it without you. We wish you all a happy and safe holiday season, full of good cheer, PN rest and relaxation. Arohanui. (JENNIFER WARD) F
For more information, follow or contact us on Facebook: ‘Ponsonby Park’ or on our website: www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz
40 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
LOCAL NEWS
John Elliott: Essential water infrastructure project causes local angst in Picton Street For some years, Aucklanders have been angry that raw sewage is seeping into the Waitemata Harbour making local beaches unswimmable. Auckland Council has plans for separation of storm water and waste water where that has not been done and projects are underway to carry out this work. The latest area to have separation is Freemans Bay where work is currently worrying residents. The locals understand some disruption is inevitable while the pipes are laid, and that the work needs to be carried out, but have raised a number of questions about the process. Maps showing where and how the work will be carried out are prominently displayed at the top of Hepburn Street and on the council website. Online, concerned citizens are invited to email council with queries. The separation work has already been carried out in nearby streets. However, citizens tell me answers from council have been hard to get. On behalf of some concerned residents of Picton Street, I talked with Barry Potter, Director of Infrastructure and Environmental Services at Auckland Council. Potter heard me out politely and promised to have a relevant person get back to me with answers. The next day I was pleased to get a call from a liaison person, Ngan. I explained the issues which were worrying people the most. Ngan suggested a meeting with relevant council officers who could answer my questions. It was always likely that time would run out before the December Ponsonby News deadline, and that is indeed the case. I am still hopeful that the substantive questions Picton Street residents are asking will be answered satisfactorily. The main points of contention are: 1. What is the completion date for Picton Street work? 2. What was the result of vibration tests already carried out? 3. Has the geology and clay base of the land been adequately taken into account by the contractor? 4. Could temporary parking permits be issued to residents, and all other parking banned from Picton Street, for safety and congestion reasons?
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
5. Could more care be taken of the street’s iconic plane trees, some of which have been torn and broken by heavy traffic? 6. Could heavy tonnage traffic be banned from Picton Street while the project is being carried out? 7. Could the street be swept and cleaned during this project, as rubbish, leaves, twigs and even branches now litter the street and are a hazard for the children and the elderly? 8. Danger to children and the elderly is of particular concern. Residents have tried to get some of these questions answered without success. It is about communication and consultation. Some of these issues appear to have fallen through the cracks and not owned by anyone. I look forward to a constructive and fruitful discussion with council officers very soon. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN
QUOTABLE QUOTES: SAYINGS OF THE MONTH If a financial institution is too big to fail, it is too big to exist. Happiness is less a matter of getting what we want than of wanting what we’ve got. Monopoly – one player is given all property except Whitechapel Road. He’s also given 95% of the banks. You are expected to succeed with what’s left. You fail, so you must be lazy. People spend money they don’t have, to buy goods they don’t need, to impress people they don’t like. First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, and then you win. In a society of greedy people there are few votes in giving to the poor. National has the divine right to govern. Justice and equity are extras and available to those who deserve it. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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94% of our 2019 sales have taken place within a 5km radius of our Grey Lynn home base
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The Custom Residential sales team have
means that we continually build on our
completed $100,000,000 in total real
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all of our sales have taken place within a tight 5km radius of our Grey Lynn home base. When we opened our doors in 2008, we knew that we never wanted to be the biggest or the cheapest. We simply wanted to fill a void in the city fringe market and we felt that this area would benefit from a truly independent local specialist. Our focus on running local open homes, auctions, negotiations, viewing appointments and buyer follow up phone calls
We then apply all of this, plus our agility and flexibility, to the very next property that we are chosen to represent. This discipline to stay local, work local serves our customers incredibly well, and it’s as simple as that really. If you are considering a property move in 2020 or beyond: please feel free to get in touch in complete confidence, as some of you have done already. We’re born and bred right here, and we’d be delighted to be of service to you.
day after day and week after week,
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PH W
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The signs are certainly positive for a strong 2020 in the local residential real estate market, with low interest rates and consistent buyer demand certainly expected to continue next year. We are currently seeing that our local market is carrying plenty of speed and momentum in terms of full attendances at open homes, high numbers of follow-up buyer appointments being requested, and of course strong written offers being made on properties. Based on what we are currently experiencing, we expect this high level of activity to continue right through until almost Christmas Day this year, and fire up again mid January 2020. Listing supply on the Western city fringe remains low, even at this peak time of year, and this has the flow-on effect of current vendors seeing the return of pre-auction offers, multi offers, strong conditional offers and high levels of interest and general â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;buzzâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; around their properties when they launch to market. Current levels of supply do not appear to be meeting the levels of buyer demand out there. The 2019 year has certainly been our most successful one in the last 11 years and this is largely due us working very hard to provide our clients with the services of a truly independent local specialist. We have an incredibly high level of local expertise and have built up a number of quality buyer connections this year in particular. Our proven local track record plus unmatched levels of agility and flexibility serve our clients very well in any market environment. If you are considering a property move in 2020 or beyond, please feel free to get in touch in complete confidence. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be delighted to be of service to you.
LOCAL NEWS
Deirdre Thurston – On My Mind: Time to head to the shed Yep, it’s that time again. Grapple with the rusty padlock on the shed. Brave the alarmingly large daddy longlegs congregation gathered over the winter, haul out the fake tree and box of decorations. This is all a tad futile. My son and I will have the same ‘chat’ we have each year which goes like this: “I’m not buying a real tree this year, Darling. I know you love a real tree hitting the ceiling and taking up most of my living room, but I can’t deal with the disappearance of yet another base to screw it into, meaning I have to buy one for the hundredth time, and pine needles everywhere. Then paying someone to come and take the poor dead thing away to its grave. I hate seeing trees die. So, definitely the pretend one this year. It will look gorgeous once we have decorated it. The lights and all…” “Nah. It’s not going to happen, Mum. We’ll get a real one like always.” “But…” “Ssshhh. I’ll sort it for you.” As always, I give in because it’s cute he still wants a giant, needledropping tree at his age. And I have to admit his Santa sack does look good by the sweet-smelling monstrosity. I’ll have to harden up and not shed tears as the tree sheds needles and turns brown. I have a heavy veil of guilt as the poor thing is dragged away each year. It could still be happily growing in a forest somewhere completely oblivious to axes and shiny baubles. Initially, I planned to sidestep the tree conversation. I suggested my son, his partner and I go away for Christmas. Somewhere far, far away from hams, Pavlova and dead trees. Naively, I thought they would be as excited as me at the thought of an exotic Christmas away from the fripperies of tinsel, the disappointment of someone’s auntie’s bad pasta salad loaded with carrots and raisins. The grand idea went down like the aforementioned pasta salad. “I don’t think so, Mum. Christmas is for all the family. It’s family time. Be nice to go sometime next year though.” Gawd… who brought him up? So, Christmas and all it offers is inching nearer. The radio and TV announcers are counting down the days to remind us how illprepared some of us are. Not wanting to sound ungrateful to have family to be with at some point on the day, but it really is a great deal of hoo-ha and money disappears at an alarming rate.
44 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
I’d like to see Christmas spending and feasting dialled down. Why do we tend to go overboard? I’m all for families and friends celebrating together but wouldn’t it be so much more relaxing to chill out on a rug at a park or on the beach and have a simple meal? A few sammies, a chip of strawberries and a mince pie or two? A wine or a beer for those that want one. It’s strange and I haven’t quite worked out why (apart from I dislike drinking alcohol in the day), but I rarely have a drink on Christmas Day. Maybe half a glass of bubbles or a still white later that night once the party’s over, the ham remains are wrapped in a damp tea towel, my niece’s vegan dish is covered with a beeswax cover and my imaginary cat frolics among the discarded mass of torn Christmas paper. Then comes the quiet time. The days after Christmas where families usually get to snooze, play cricket on the lawn and break their presents. For those alone, it can be the loneliest time. Couples are so… coupley. It can get a bit teeth-gnashingly blue seeing the happy couples strolling hand in hand while their dogs cavort in the waves fetching sticks. I mentioned this to another single friend who said he always thought of Bryan Ferry (photographed above) and Roxy Music singing ‘In Every Dream Home A Heartache’ when he saw such couple/dog-dom. Said it cheered him up no end. Clutching at straws me thinks but whatever works for him. I love seeing people happy together and am so nearly going to buy a dog. I have instructed a close friend to monitor me at all times in case I head down the motorway towards the SPCA or loiter in front of a pet shop. She is to stop such behaviour and remind me why I will not buy one. “Yet,” I whisper under my breath. Here it comes, the festive season. Remember it is not so festive for some. Donate generously to those who struggle to put any food on the table and afford gifts for their children. After all, Christmas is for children, in my book. And that’s why I will get a blimmin’ real tree because the look on my child’s face (at 28) when it’s up and lit up is still awesome. Happy Christmas everyone. Be kind. Peace on Earth. PN (DEIRDRE THURSTON) F PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Climate change I appreciate hearing from all those constituents who have written to me on this issue. National has supported the Zero Carbon Bill and I am committed to ensuring political parties work together to tackle climate change. The Zero Carbon Bill enables us to have an enduring climate change framework in the form of an independent and expert Climate Change Commission. National has been clear we don’t agree with everything in the bill, and we pushed for a series of practical changes that would have ensured it was more science-based and considered long-term incentives and economic impact. National Spokesperson Todd Muller and Scott Simpson have worked incredibly hard on these issues over several years. I want to specifically acknowledge Hon James Shaw for the way he has worked collaboratively with some of my colleagues. Local update This month, I made a statement in Parliament on behalf of the Opposition on the SkyCity Convention Centre fire. I acknowledged all of the workers on site, their families, but also all the firefighters that were battling the blaze. I met with SkyCity and people impacted by the incident several times with both the Prime Minister and Hon Simon Bridges. This incident was devastating, and our thoughts are with everybody affected. Auckland Council was one of the agencies managing the local response. I am currently meeting with the newly elected council teams across the electorate. It is important to have a good working relationship with local body politicians as many local projects and ideas for nationwide initiatives are progressed at the local level. I receive many queries from constituents on local government issues. I am pleased to say there has been progress on supporting Albert Street businesses through the City Rail Link Construction. The creation of a hardship fund has been confirmed for Auckland businesses adversely affected by delays to the City Rail Link. This is a positive step in what has been a very difficult situation for those businesses. I presented a petition to Parliament from Heart of the City on this issue. It’s been a truly collaborative effort to get justice for these businesses and I’m pleased we were able to get there in the end. The demolition work has started on existing buildings for the next station at the Karangahape Road area and other construction work will follow. Education Discussion Document Alongside my constituency work, I’ve been working hard on education policy over the past year. I have worked collaboratively with the Government in several areas such as the reform of NCEA and on the Tomorrow’s School review. This work has culminated in the recent release of National’s Education Discussion Document comprising over 100 education policy proposals and questions. While it is not our final set of policies, the document does set out the general direction for National’s education policy. I welcome your thoughts on the document. Some key areas of focus are reforming teacher training (including incentives for young people to become teachers), reducing class sizes in primary schools, better investment and management of school property and additional support for children with complex needs. We have previously said that supporting children with complex needs is not just about additional funding, it is about the need to reform the system itself to ensure greater integration between our health and
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
LOCAL NEWS
Nikki Kaye: Working collaboratively in our Parliament education systems. We propose replacing the Government’s fees free policy as we think there are better ways to invest in education. We are exploring options including an Education Saver account where school age kids could receive a small contribution from the Government each year into an account to go towards their future education needs. We also oppose the Government’s Reform of Vocational Education. A National Government will return polytechnic assets and decision making back to regional polytechnics. We know the regions and local industry are best placed to teach their students. Constituents often raise with me their concerns about our education system, and I’ve been privileged to hear from many of you over the years about what you think we could do to ensure children become lifelong learners. Our education system touches everyone – whether you are an educator, a parent or a student, your views and feedback are important to us as we develop these policies. If you would like to make your voice heard on our education policy as we head into 2020, you can read the document and provide feedback by filling out our online questionnaire at www.national.org.nz/education I wish you a safe and happy festive season. Thank you for the privilege to continue to serve Auckland central. (NIKKI KAYE) F PN If you have any local or national issues or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me or my office on 09 378 2088 or an email mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz Authorised by Hon Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay. www.nikkikaye.co.nz
Merry Christmas From Hon Nikki Kaye MP for Auckland Central
Wishing you a relaxing holiday season and a safe and happy New Year 48 C College Hill Freemans Bay 09 378 2088 mp.aucklandcentral@ parliament.govt.nz nikkikayeMP nikkikaye
Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Nikki Kaye MP, 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay, Auckland.
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FESTIVE TRADITIONS & THOUGHTFUL GIVING We all celebrate the end of the year differently. For many of us, it is our only significant holiday break for the year and this in itself is reason to celebrate. Some have family Christmas traditions that have evolved over generations and others mark the festive season by spending time with whanau and friends at holiday homes or camping. We buy gifts for those we love but often don’t begin our shopping till December.
The key is to enjoy these end of year celebrations without suffering too much stress and pressure. We spoke to a few Ponsonby News readers to find out their favourite traditions and shopping tips as well as seeking out a few thoughtful gifts from local retailers and businesses that might be perfect for Christmas.
Tito Cucciniello of Pane e Vino and Ciao Belli Tito moved to New Zealand from Italy decades ago – opening his restaurants and raising his family in the Ponsonby area. For Tito, Christmas is about food, family and friends. “We always spend our Christmas Day with our dear friend Valeria of Studio Italia and her family on Waiheke Island. Our Christmas tradition is to simply spend all day with our family and friends around a table drinking and eating.” Tito explains that the fun is in filling plates and having lots of laughs around the table together. “We always finish with a bottle of Limoncello and walk to the beach with our dogs before we start eating again!”
Marysa Theiler, owner and founder of barrefigure A business owner and busy mother of two young children, Marysa looks to re-create her own versions of the Christmas baking of her talented mother. “Our house was always filled with tins of delicious festive treats (florentines, Russian fudge, biscotti, caramel logs, mince pies and spiced nuts, etc). My mother always gives her friends baking as Christmas gifts and I have attempted to be creative like her,” explains Marysa. In the past, Marysa has made muesli in jars, and spiced nuts but this year will attempt to include her children Lexi (2) and Tom (1) in the process of making gingerbread Christmas cookies for family and friends.
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
Sid and Chand Sahrawat, Sidart, Cassia and Sid at The French Café Sid and Chand are an impressive team with multiple award-winning restaurants and a real passion for giving back to the community while juggling the fun and challenges of their two young children, Zoya and Roan. While the family often goes away for Christmas, this year they will be trying something different. “We’re having an ‘Orphan’s Christmas barbecue at our place. We’re inviting all our staff and friends who don’t have plans for Christmas Day to join us and celebrate together,” explains Chand. With young children, it’s no wonder that Christmas is a favourite time of year. “Chand makes advent calendars for the kids and this year’s theme is LEGO,” says Sid. “Chand and I both buy presents for each immediate family member, as do the kids, and they’re wrapped and under the tree for opening on Christmas morning. Our ‘go to’ stores are Chambers, Milly’s, Shut The Front Door and MECCA.”
Martin Leach & Jay Platt There is little that’s nicer than a handmade gift. Last Christmas we decided to give our friends jars of pickled onions, which we produced from home. For weeks Jay worked away tirelessly, with tears in his eyes and all for giving at Christmas. The kitchen bench was full of jars, which were filled with 18 onions. To give them some punch, Jay included coriander, mustard seeds, peppercorns and bay leaves. We created a simple label and the jars looked great. Jay then put them in a dark cupboard to allow them to mature for six weeks. They proved very popular with family and friends. They are perfect to dress up salads and they are especially good with roasted pumpkin or sweet potato salad. Friends told us they were delicious served as a side condiment with scrambled eggs, omelettes and in a frittata. You can also use them as a flavour enhancer over freshly baked pizza. Or simply enjoy them with a glass of something. This Christmas we are also pickling chunky beetroot along with the pickled onions. We tried to make pickles (small cucumbers) last year but for some reason they didn’t work. Pippa Coom Auckland councillor Pippa Coom and her whanau have adopted a lowstress tradition that preserves all the fun and festivities of Christmas with a special Secret Santa game. “All the adults from both our families bring just one wrapped gift of modest value to put under the tree. After a large, festive lunch we begin the game. There are a variety of rules for playing the game but we’ve found a way to make it fun and create a bit of tension,” explains Pippa. Each person draws a number out of a hat. The person with number one can choose from any of the gifts. They open it up but have to be prepared for it to be ‘stolen’ from them. Person number two can chose from the opened gift or one from under the tree. If number one has their gift stolen they select another present. This continues until everyone has a gift. “What keeps it interesting is that each gift can only be stolen twice. There are clear favourites each year but everyone goes home happy with just one ‘anonymous’ gift and mostly no unwanted presents,” says Pippa.
Pippa Coom’s nephew Tomu Coom, aged 4, waiting patiently to open his Christmas presents The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
“My nephew Tomu is the only child of the family so the tradition continues for him to receive as many presents as possible from all the adults!” PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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Maarten Baas Copper Cutlery Set from Tessuti
Jewell Box in shell from Città
The Vintage Weekender from JI Home
CHRISTMAS IS COMING Handcrafted Linen Poppy Top, from Wixxi, Ponsonby
THOUGHTFUL GIFTS Thoughtful gifts are those that have a story behind them. It’s not their expense but how they will give joy to the person receiving them. Giving gifts that are made sustainably, ethically and will last rather than become landfill is one way that you can be thoughtful about what you choose. The gifts we have selected meet some or all of these criteria. Objects and items that are cleverly designed can transform something quite ordinary into something that makes the perfect gift for someone who has everything. Everyone has someone who is challenging to buy for. Either they appear to want for nothing or have such particular tastes that it is hard to know what to get. For these people, sometimes something that is part art, part utility is a clever option. The Maarten Baas Copper Cutlery set (from Tessuti) in copper-brushed stainless steel is the perfect balance of form and function, making this the perfect gift for someone who has everything. Made in Italy, this dishwasher-safe, art work utensil set by Dutch designer Maarten Baas features a knife, fork, tablespoon and teaspoon that have been made to specifically reflect Baas’ original sketch. According to Baas: “There is often a great deal of beauty in a rapid sketch, but those spontaneous lines often get lost in an industrial process.”
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Finch dinnerware in natural from Città
For our mamas When it comes to our mothers, many of us are often stuck with what buy at Christmas. Often mothers will say “oh, I don’t need anything” and while they are probably right, most of us, no matter what our age, still want to give a gift that shows how much we truly love and appreciate them. One nice idea is a beautifully crafted jewel box or two with clever compartments for all the jewellery they have and all they might still be yet to get. Città has a lovely range of refined, timeless jewel boxes. They come in elegant colours and finishes and create a safe and stylish haven for trinkets, charms and treasures. Mothers of all ages appreciate the timeless ease and elegance of quality linen and the Poppy Top from Wixii in Ponsonby is handcrafted, whimsical linen beauty at its best. Everything Wixxi does is sustainable, thoughtful and underpinned by beautiful design. The Poppy Top in natural lightweight linen has a dramatic drawstring neckline with a wide-cut drop shoulder making it a style that will suit any mother with a romantic spirit. Gifts for brother Where brothers and brothers-in-law are concerned, it is nice to choose something that you know will be both practical, classic and lasting. In this regard, a weekender bag is a practical, versatile choice. As a piece of luggage it’s large enough to fit a few days’ worth of clothing, yet compact enough to stow in the overhead compartment. The Weekend Bag from JI home is a leather classic that will just look better and better with age and use and it’s the perfect present if your family is the kind that likes to buy one nice thing as a group.
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Tse Tse Champagne Flutes from Tessuti
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
Sisters, sisters, sisters When it comes to our sisters, whether related to us by blood or not, present buying can be both fun and practical. For fun we love the Tse & Tse Associees Champagne glasses. This gorgeous pair of glasses is mouth-blown the old fashioned way by artisan glassmakers in Eastern Europe. They have inlaid, moulded bubbles and are perfect for having a celebratory glass of Champagne. They come beautifully boxed and ready to wrap from Tessuti in Herne Bay. When you are after something practical but beautiful, a piece of Finch ceramic dinnerware is something you can buy piece by piece, year after year. Finch tableware is handcrafted by pottery artisans in Portugal. The ceramics are moulded by hand, creating an organic and casual look where no two pieces are the same. Aoyama Incense by celebrated French ceramic house, Astier de Villatte, will have the sisters in your life closing their eyes as they breathe in the exquisite scent and think of you. These long-burning insense sticks are handmade in Japan, beautifully boxed and create a fresh woody summer ambience for the festive season. Christmas is all about the kids Kids are often the easiest to buy for and you can lose yourself in the process of buying for them but it’s nice to find ways to let kids embrace the joy of giving themselves. One way is to buy them MakeKits DIY way before Christmas so they can make something beautiful and special to give to friends and family. MakeKit DIY kits are designed and made by a local Auckland mum, Lisa, who wanted to keep her kids off screens and interested in creating and making useful and cool things. There is a great range of MakeKits available from The Garden Party in Ponsonby, from gemstone soaps to delicious body butters. Bling20 Goggles from Chambers
Nature Baby in Grey Lynn has some great wheels and toys for little ones as well as some adorable outfits made with the finest GOT certified organic cotton. The new Grande Apple summer pyjama set is perfect for the apple of your eye and knowing it is ethically made and gentle on young skin makes it all the more gorgeous. When it comes to wheels, the Wishbone Flip is a great first ride-on bike. A 3-in-1, indoor ride-on toy that is a rocker one minute then it’s a push toy and then ride-on. A memorable and long-lasting gift to hand down from sibling to sibling.
MakeKit Make Your Own Food Wraps & MakeKit Pompom kit from the Garden Party The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
Apple Pyjama Set, Nature Baby
MakeKit Bath Bomb Kit from The Garden Party
With summer holidays and swimming pretty much going hand in hand, a pair of Bling 20 swimming goggles are a fun, funky yet practical gift. These aren’t the kind of goggles that will easily be left behind after swimming or forgotten on the beach. Chambers on Ponsonby Road has a wide range of styles to choose from for both boys and girls and their gift wrapping skills are second to none.
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For the teens Huffer has summer fun sorted with a range of gear for a long, hot summer. From tees and trunks to caps and bucket hats. With climate change and sustainability a high priority for many young people, teens can enjoy wearing Huffer knowing the company is committed to sustainability across its entire design and manufacturing process.
Huffer Stella Tee - Flakey from Huffer
Gifts for beach house Sometimes it’s nice to all put in for a gift that is for everyone and buying something for the family beach house can be a way to buy less even if you spend a little more. JI Home has a range of outdoor loungers that are perfect to kick back on over the summer months. Made to pass the test of time, they are an elegant and comfy choice for around the pool at home or at the beach house.
The Academy Brand, Noll Boardy from Superette
Don’t forget dad A pair of socks is a very traditional ‘dad’ gift, but you can do it with lasting style when you choose a pack of high-quality Paul Smith socks from Fifth Avenue. Then, for the more formal father figure, Fifth Avenue has fun but elegant pocket squares that can be paired with classic Paul Smith cufflinks.
Zigzag and Crosses Christmas wrap and tags by Made Paper Co.
It is important to understand the dad you are buying the gift for and if yours is more casual summer cool than workwear chic, then Superette on Ponsonby Road could be the place to go. Superette has curated a great range of casual wear brands to keep dad cool through the long, hot summer months. From Havianas with fresh prints, to the uplifting floral caps by Just Another Fisherman, Superette has a range of effortless lifestyle looks that are all about redefining the ideaa of luxury living.
It’s a wrap Don’t forget the first part of the giving process. The part when the receiver first sees the gift. How it’s wrapped builds the anticipation of what could be inside. It’s all part of the magic and fun of Christmas and there’s something special about a carefully and thoughtfully wrapped present that makes it all the more memorable. Local business Made Paper Co has found Santa’s wild side and developed a festive collection of papers, cards and ribbons in punchy neon, black and white and fun graphic prints. Designed in New Zealand, Made Paper Co’s wrap, cards and gift tags are printed on quality, heavyweight, 100% recycled craft and FSC certified papers. Fun printed ribbon, Washi tape and paper twine add the finishing touches with attitude. There is no end to the options to give thoughtfully and ways to enjoy the festive holiday season. F PN
Orlando Lounger from JI Home
50 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
1. Edmonds My First Cookbook – $24.99 Become an expert afghan-baker or an award-winning pizza creator. With the iconic illustrated step-by-step layout of the original Junior Cookbook, you’ll find it super easy to learn to cook these classic New Zealand recipes. From breakfast through to dessert and everything in between, this collection of over 90 recipes will be the beginning of a life-long love of baking and cooking. Ages 6-9.
5. The Dinky Donkey by Craig Smith – $19.99 Wonky Donkey has a daughter with the same rambunctious spirit as her dad. Kids, parents and their loved ones will enjoy the hilarity and cumulative readaloud fun. This cute little donkey has beautiful long eyelashes, loves to listen to music, paints her hooves bright pink. She’s a blinky, funky, pinky... you know how it goes... dinky donkey. Ages 3-6.
2. The House of Madame M by Clotilde Perrin – $37.99 A large-format, lift-the-flaps visit to the haunted house of Madame M – enjoy the thrill of uncovering what lurks in the wardrobe, behind the door, tucked under the furniture. Each room is full of surprises to make even the bravest shiver. Full of humor and detail, this book, by the creator of last year’s ‘Inside the Villains’ will mesmerise readers of all ages. Ages 5+.
6. Deeplight by Frances Hardinge – $24.99 The gods are dead. Decades ago they tore each other apart. But are they really gone forever? When 15-year-old Hark finds the still-beating heart of a terrifying deity, he risks everything to keep it so he can save the life of his best friend Jelt. But with the heart, Jelt gradually and eerily transforms. Another riveting fantasy by the author of The Lie Tree. Age 12+.
3.The Beast of Buckingham Palace by David Walliams – $25 It is 2120 and London is in ruins. The young Prince Alfred has never known a life outside Buckingham Palace – but when strange goings-on breach its walls and stalk the corridors in the dead of night, he is thrust into a world of mystery, adventure and monsters. And when his mother, the Queen, is dragged away to the Tower of London, Alfred must screw up his courage and battle to save her, himself... and the entire city. Ages 7-12.
7. Frostheart by Jamie Littler – $17.99 Way out in the furthest part of the monster-infested Snow Sea, Ash waits for his missing parents with his grumpy yeti guardian. But when an accident reveals his amazing magical powers, Ash is whisked aboard the Frostheart – an explorer sleigh with a daring crew who needs his help. Adventure and mystery await! Ages 7-12.
4. The Gobbledegook Book by Joy Cowley – $39.99 Joy Cowley’s favourite stories, poems and nonsense rhymes collected in a hardback gift volume for the family to treasure. This collection includes muchloved classics such as Greedy Cat and Nicketty-Nacketty Noo Noo Noo and is perfect for reading aloud. Fully illustrated with humour and energy, this lovely book will bring joy to a new generation. Ages 0-6.
8. #Tumeke! by Michael Petherick – $29.99 #Tumeke! brings you the lives, loves and larrikin spirit of an inner-city neighbourhood in the lead up to Waitangi Day. This unique and uniquely New Zealand story is told through texts, Instagram posts, emails, fliers, committee minutes and the reliably bonkers community noticeboard. Stuffed with big personalities, surprising friendships and a little intrigue, #Tumeke! brims with PN creativity and comedy and everyday heartaches, too. Ages 8-12. F
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
CHILDREN’S BOOKS FOR CHRISTMAS
THE DOROTHY BUTLER BOOKSHOP, 1 Jervois Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 376 7283, E: shop@dorothybutler.co.nz, www.dorothybutler.co.nz
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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CHRISTMAS IS COMING
GORGEOUS GIFTS FOR BOOK LOVERS Selected by Carole Beu from The Women’s Bookshop located opposite Ponsonby Central. FOR LITERATURE LOVERS:
FOR FEISTY FEMALES:
Girl, Women, Other – how bold and smart the Booker judges were to make Bernadine Evaristo the winner alongside the great Margaret Atwood (The Testaments). The characters are almost entirely black women living in London and they’re fantastic! $40.
Conversations with RBG – Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Life, Love, Liberty, and Law, conversing over 20 years with Jeffrey Rosen. Fascinating insights into this distinguished, path-breaking Supreme Court Justice. $50.
Olive, Again – The brilliant Elizabeth Strout has done it again! Readers who loved Olive Kitteridge will revel in this sequel. Olive reaches the grand age of 86 and she’s as funny/awful as ever. $35.
The Truth Will Set You Free, But First It Will Piss You Off! A delightful, illustrated collection of quotes from famous feminist Gloria Steinem – thoughts on life, love and rebellion. “I’m beginning to realise the pleasure of being a nothing-to-lose, take-no-shit older woman.” $28.
FOR NON-FICTION NERDS: The Spinoff Book – edited by Toby Manhire and illustrated by Toby Morris. A delicious selection of screamingly funny, seriously relevant writing, art, poetry and quotes from the first five years of this inspirational website. $38.
FOR CURIOUS KIDS:
FOR CRAZY COOKS:
Wildlife of Aotearoa – this incredible visual exploration of New Zealand’s wildlife is a stunning follow-up to Gavin Bishop’s 2018 hit Aotearoa: the New Zealand Story. $40.
From the Oven to the Table – perfect for those short of time. ‘For bung-it-in-the-oven cooks everywhere; Diana Henry has a genius for flavour’ – Nigella Lawson. $45.
The Adventures of Tupaia – told by Courtney Sina Meredith and illustrated by Mat Tait, this is a dramatic and engaging exploration of an important aspect of New Zealand’s history. $35. FOR UNDERSTANDING OTHERS:
Gift-wrapped
Books for Christmas 105 Ponsonby Rd Auckland 09 376 4399 books@womensbookshop.co.nz
Mophead – written and illustrated by our brilliant, fast-talking PI and former Poet Laureate Selina Tusitala Marsh, this is a delightful invitation to be your own wild, different self. $25. All of This is for You – her illustration of two women embracing after the Christchurch mosque attacks made Ruby Jones famous. In this beautiful ‘little book of kindness’ she shares hand-drawn, PN heartfelt artworks and messages. $24. F THE WOMEN’S BOOKSHOP, 105 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 4399, books@womensbokshop.co.nz, www.womensbookshop.co.nz
online shopping womensbookshop.co.nz
52 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
DEAR READER CHRISTMAS GIFT AND BOOK LIST Here is a selection of some of our favourites: The Dutch House by Ann Patchett After moving to a mansion – ‘the Dutch House’ – the mother of siblings Danny and Maeve does not cope with the change of circumstances and leaves her family. We follow the fallout of that decision and of their father’s fateful decision to remarry. When he dies, the children are expelled from the mansion by their stepmother and their inheritance denied. This is a story of love, family and unrealised potential. An elegantly written and poignant modern fairy tale. The Testaments by Margaret Atwood (Joint) Winner of the Booker Prize 2019 This sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale picks up the threads some 15 years after Offred’s journeys into the unknown. There are three narrators – Daisy, Agnes and Aunt Lydia. Atwood examines how people become morally compromised and how collaboration results from fear and oppression. Whereas ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ was more inward looking, this is a plot-driven story brilliantly told. The Man Who Saw Everything by Deborah Levy The book is in two parts, the first starting in 1988 and the second in 2016. Both sections begin with an accident on the famous zebra crossing in Abbey Road, London. The first part becomes more and more unsettling – what is real or imagined? The second part possibly offers an explanation. It is a story about trying to make sense of one’s life and of lost opportunities. Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo (Joint) Winner of the Booker Prize 2019 The novel follows 12, mostly black, British women of mixed ages. Their stories overlap and weave around each other, each character
being flawed but portrayed with empathy. While Evaristo tackles difficult topics – sexism, racism and general intolerance – she writes with humour, compassion and exuberance. We Are Here: An Atlas of Aotearoa by Chris McDowall Visually arresting and compelling maps, graphs and commentaries cover an impressive variety of topics about New Zealand. Covering such themes as te whenua, people, places, water and air, living things, government, movement and energy, and heart and memory, this is accessible, interesting and up-to-date information about us and our environment, now and historically. The Body by Bill Bryson With characteristic humour and verve, Bill Bryson takes us on a tour of the human body. The discussion is livened by historical explanations of the body’s workings, together with detailed, useful (and accurate) information. You don’t have to be a medical professional to enjoy this authoritative and easy to read account which leaves the reader awed by the complexity and wonder of the human body. There Is Only One Direction: Volume 1 by Peter Simpson In the first of two volumes on the life of New Zealand’s leading modernist artist Colin McCahon, biographer Peter Simpson covers the artist’s evolution up to 1959. As well as stunning reproductions of his work, there are illuminating extracts from McCahon’s letters. This is a stand-out study of the artist’s work informed by his experiences, thoughts, and visions. F PN DEAR READER, 436 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 0383, www.dearreader.co.nz
436 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 0383, E: dearreader@xtra.co.nz, www.dearreader.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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1. Baobab luxe candles – Modernista Ceramica collection – 10cm $179, 16cm $259, 24cm $525 (24cm grey only) 2. Côté Table tropical serveware – large oval plate $49.90 each 3. Côté Table Chambord glassware – stemmed glass $19.90, tumbler $16.90 4. Spindle whitewash rattan tray $99.90 5. Pols Potten brass prickle décor – small 18cm $64.90, large 26cm $89.90, extra large 45cm $279 6. Corso marble bowls – small 28cm dia $245, large 35cm dia $490 7. Pols Potten money-box bunny – $139 8
8. Ibride Bel Ami limited edition framed print (74cm high) $690
CORSO DE’ FIORI, The Foundation, 8 George Street, Parnell, T: 09 307 9166, www.corso.co.nz
54 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CURATE YOUR WORLD Ibride animal portrait authenticated limited edition framed print $690
24 Bottle Clima Tivoli insulated bottle 850ml $79.90
Gava antique brass planters large 20cmh $99.90 small 16cmh $79.90
‘Mlle de Maupin’ design shown, other designs also available
Pols Potten striped apple lantern $159
Côté Table Tropical serveware large oval salad bowl $64 each
Pols Potten reed & glass tumblers (set of 6) $99.90 jug $89.90
Baobab candles Black Pearls collection 10cm $149.90 16cm $199 24cm $399
Pols Potten large gold apple money box $119
16cm candle shown
Beach towel various designs $59.90 each
Pols Potten folding candle holder $129.90
Gingham beach bag $69.90
Modest Vintage Player MVP heritage soccer ball $139.90
THE FOUNDATION | 8 GEORGE ST, NEWMARKET | AUCKLAND | TEL 09 307 9166 | CORSO.CO.NZ
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
Artist Misery teams up with Oxfam for limitededition artwork to transform lives in the Pacific New Zealand wall and pop artist Misery has joined forces with Oxfam New Zealand to raise funds for Oxfam’s project Flow, providing clean drinking water and sanitisation in remote areas of Papua New Guinea. Misery’s impressive list of accolades includes exhibitions in all corners of the globe, from Berlin to Taiwan, Melbourne, Paris and Los Angeles. Her creative reach is extensive, ranging from highly crafted paintings and wall art. “I was inspired to paint a dreamy underwater seascape exploring Papua New Guinea’s magnificent coral reefs and sea life. My mother spent a large part of her childhood in PNG and has incredible memories of growing up there, such as boating around Lae, swimming in crocodile-infested waters and playing in the jungle,” she says.
magic of nature and honoured to have created this work for such an important project,” says Misery.
Misery’s original seven-panel mural was showcased at 1 Queen Street earlier in 2019, and now a limited edition series of prints have been released and are available for purchase at oxfam.org.nz/shop
Globally, Oxfam works to find lasting solutions to poverty, reaching more than 17 million people annually from the world’s most vulnerable communities. Through this new clean water project in Papua New Guinea, Oxfam New Zealand will be working together with project partners to install high-quality, sustainable water supply and sanitation systems in 12 schools and eight health centres, as well as delivering training on improved sanitation and hygiene to schools, health centres and surrounding communities.
Purchase a limited-edition print and you will also give the gift of clean water. All profits from each stunning print will help deliver safe drinking water and sanitation facilities to 12 schools and eight healthcare centres supporting 30,000 people in the Eastern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea. To learn more about this vital livelihood project, go to www.oxfam.org.nz/flow “Painting this piece felt extra special as I was able to imagine what it may have been like for her as a little girl. I am forever inspired by the
“It’s been an honour to collaborate with Oxfam on this special project knowing many families in the Pacific aren’t as lucky as we are, and that they don’t have access to something as vital as water is a huge motivator. I’m glad to contribute to something that could have a huge impact on the lives of people living in poverty. I have so much admiration for the important work Oxfam is doing.”
Misery’s original panels will also be auctioned at the Modern and Contemporary Art auction at the International Art Centre and at an Oxfam event. For more information, please contact charlene.fitisemanu@oxfam.org.nz F PN
Do good, feel good Misery + Oxfam Art For Good print, $130
Oxfam Unwrapped gift cards, $15 - $250
56 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
Treat yourself or a loved one and enjoy beautifully crafted artisan goods while also knowing that you’ve contributed towards ending poverty in the Pacific and around the world. Shop Misery + Oxfam Art For Good prints plus ethically made products and Unwrapped gift cards at www.oxfam.org.nz/oxfam-shop
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
@ DESIGN 55 Stylish Christmas gifts for family and friends...
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1. Fornasetti gold Regalo candle 1.9kg $949, 300g $330 2. Astronomici Azzurro candle 300g $330 3. Fornasetti Zebra cabinet POA 4. Guframini cactus $460 5. Fornasetti Bocca tray 40cm $1125 6. Fornasetti gold leaf plate #96 $580 5
7. Fornasetti dog umbrella stand $3150 8. Guframini lips $460
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DESIGN 55, 55 Upper Queen Street, T: 09 308 955, www.design55.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
Wednesday to Friday 11am – 5pm and Saturday 11am – 4pm 55 Upper Queen St, Newton, 09 308 9455, www.design55.co.nz
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CHRISTMAS IS COMING
@ BOB & FRIENDS 1. Tala Lighting Originating from the African concept of conservation through beauty, Tala LED designs combine classic decorative qualities, industrial influences and pioneering LED technology.
4. Shaggy Bag by Wilson & Dorset Made from New Zealand high-country sheepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wool with a suede cowhide base, the Shaggy beanbag is a cosy place to nestle in, relax and unwind.
2. Continuous Sofa by Faudet-Harrison Taking inspiration from upholstery designs of the 1920s, this deepseated piece by Faudet-Harrison is notable for the use of continuous curves and elegant lines. Made in the United Kingdom.
5. Rocking Chair by Houe Outdoor rocking chair by Danish Design House, Houe Furniture.
3. Real World Blood Orange and Harakeke Hand Cream Made in the Hawkes Bay, Real World only uses hand-selected, plantbased ingredients that are pure, nourishing and safe for you and your entire family.
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BOB & FRIENDS, 231 Ponsonby Road, www.bobandfriends.co.nz
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
NEW SHIPMENT OF DECORATIVE CHRISTMAS GIFTS
21 Ariki Street, Grey Lynn, Phone 09 360 9858
www.europeanantiques.co.nz
CHRISTMAS IS COMING 1
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1 Huski Wine Cooler — Black, White, Rose Gold, Stainless Steel $89.99 2 Nordicware Citrus Blossom Loaf Pan $79.95 3 Buy any 2 pieces of Le Creuset Toughened Non Stick Cookware and receive 20% off 4 Buy a Magimix 4200Xl and receive free a $75 Milly’s Gift Card; priced from $769 5 Luigi Bormioli Vinoteque glasses 2pk Champagne Flute, Sav, Shiraz, Pinot Noir were $39.99 now $29.99 6 Essteele Roaster with Rack $219.99 7 Demeyère Multi-Function Pan 20, 24, 28, 32cm from $299.95
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Serious
the Cocktaril hou
e since cookwar
If you can’t quite trust your luck with Santa, you can always count on the new Milly’s catalogue.
1983
It’s fresh out and full of all the fabulous cookware you’d choose for yourself in a heartbeat. Inspiration, bargains and real choice. Contact us if you’d like us to send you your own copy.
ers Bak bake a n n go
r, sou t Hot, , swee y salt
Green is the new black
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Free Phone 0800 200 123, Email: customerservice@millys.co.nz Ponsonby: 273 Ponsonby Rd, Ph (09) 376 1550, www.millyskitchen.co.nz
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
Design your Christmas @ Homage
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1. AJ Table Lamp 2. Blockitecture Deco Blocks 3. Zuny Toucan 4. Mamba Bottle Stopper 5. Platner Side Chair 6. Silver Candle Holders 7. Playforever Racecar 8. Cubebots 9. Eileen Grey Side Table 10. Table Tile Coasters 11. String Pocket 12. Eames Hang It All 13. Tala Touch Lamp 14. Twemco Flip Clock 15. Wooden Monkey
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254 Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn, T: 360 0616 30 Broadway, Newmarket, T: 520 5711 Weekdays 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday 10am-4pm - Grey Lynn only Shop on-line www.homage.co.nz
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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ECC has access to the best international designers, so stepping into its showroom is like entering a world of creativity. For Christmas, ECC asked three staff members for their top picks for the gift giving season.
Extra Small Puppy by Magis
Furniture showroom manager, Julie, says clients are loving the new Magis Extra Small Puppy. Released at Milan this year, this ornamentsized Puppy appeals to both adults and children alike. They come in a range of contemporary colours, in a gift-sized box perfect for under the Christmas tree. The rest of the Puppy range has had a colour makeover too and is now available in three additional pastel colours. Sue, retail lighting manager, says more of ECC’s lighting brands are introducing portable or wireless table and floor lamps. Equipped with rechargeable battery technology, these lamps can be moved to wherever you need them around the house, with some models also designed for outdoor use. There are many different table lamp designs like the refined Bellhop, the casual Follow Me or the classic Muse outdoor lantern. Atticus is a good choice as a portable outdoor floor lamp.
Follow Me Table Lamp by Marset
There is no better product endorsement than something you have bought yourself, and this is the case with Chelsea from ECC’s marketing team who has a Rock Candleholder from Tom Dixon. Formed from green forest marble with threads of sand and umber weaving through, this natural stone is incredibly beautiful and each piece is unique. Chelsea also loves the way you can stack and reconfigure the candleholder with many possible forms and purposes to work in any context, always remaining very sculptural. Rock comes from the great range of Tom Dixon accessories and giftware which includes scented candles, diffusers, glassware, coffee sets, vases, hand wash, balms and bath oils. They all come in beautiful packaging for your design-savvy family and friends. If you are looking for further inspiration, visit us. We are just off PN Khyber Pass Road, or shop online. F
62 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
Atticus Outdoor Floor Lamp by Bover Bellhop Table Lamp by Flos
London Giftset by Tom Dixon
ECC showroom at 39 Nugent Street, T: 09 379 9680, www.ecc.co.nz/store
Rock Candleholder by Tom Dixon
CHRISTMAS IS COMING
ECC asked its staff to recommend the perfect Christmas gift — here is what they chose...
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
ecc.co.nz
Tom Dixon
Rock
Sunset paddle with SUPbro Paddle Board Tours and Yoga
HAURAKI GULF FEATURE
ENJOY YOUR WATER PLAYGROUND, IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL This summer could be the perfect time to try to SUP (stand up paddle board), kayak over to Rangitoto, buy a boat or go fishing. Fishing is said to be at its best in the Hauraki Gulf with anglers believing even beginners can reel in the snapper from the eastern side of Rangitoto channel over late spring and summer. For those of us lucky enough to live in the Western Bays, the proximity of the picturesque Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf/T-ikapa Moana makes it almost a crime not to get out there and enjoy the vast array of activities on offer. Even if you have never owned a boat, fished or tried to SUP, there are courses, clubs and experts all around the city fringe to help everyone at any age find a way to enjoy all the benefits of being on the sea. Learn to SUP Stand up paddle boarding has grown dramatically in popularity over the last six years and there are a range of ways to learn and enjoy the sport. Starting with the basics of how to SUP without falling off, to becoming confident enough to enter a long distance race, or do an SUP yoga class is an achievable goal for the summer. Paddlefit Pro coach Helen Blair, from SUPWell, has clients from Point Chevalier, Grey Lynn, Ponsonby and Freemans Bay who regularly join SUPWell classes and events. Helen explains that the key to getting the most out of this fast-growing leisure sport is to learn well. “Learning to stand up paddle isn’t hard although we are obviously big advocates for learning to do it well and safely so you get maximum enjoyment from it. Many people reach the limits of what they think you can do with a paddle board because they’ve not learned technique and skills or not been coached by qualified, experienced stand up paddlers,” explains Helen. The SUPWell approach works on both your fitness and your technical skill. “It’s a total body exercise that improves balance, mobility, fitness
64 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
and agility and it’s suitable for everybody,” says Helen. SUPWell offers a range of classes and tours through places like the Puhoi River that are suitable for newer paddlers and the team can have people ready to take on more challenging tours in a relatively short time if they attend classes regularly. Along the Eastern Bays of Okahu Bay, St Heliers, Orakei Basin, Kohimarama and the North Shore, people can join in a range of classes throughout the week using the best quality Starboard equipment. SUP fitness is really for everyone and age is no barrier, meaning it is never too late to start. “We have our Active Seniors classes which are specifically coordinated groups for active older people. It’s a fantastic social way to keep active, maintain (or improve) balance and retain muscle mass,” says Helen. Of course the Hauraki Gulf and the Eastern Bays offer truly beautiful, natural environments which Helen points out are also very good for you, too. “All our classes have a stress relief and enjoy the water focus,” Helen says. PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HAURAKI GULF FEATURE SUPBro Yoga in Tutukaka
So many reasons to get down to the water There is something about being out on the water that seems to revive the body, soul and spirit and many recent studies confirm this. A study published in the journal ‘Health and Place’ found that people who lived close to the ocean are 22% less likely to suffer depression or anxiety than those who lived far from the water.
Wallace Nichols, marine biologist and author of Blue Mind, believes the link could go back to earlier times when human’s need for water was a matter of life or death. In a contemporary setting, being near or on water triggers our senses to respond positively, thereby improving our overall sense of wellbeing. SUP yoga leverages the naturally beneficial aspects of being on the water with the mindfulness of yoga. Jo Roberts from SUPBro stand up paddle board tours and yoga in the beautiful Tutukaka Coast says many of their regular weekend and summer clients come from the greater Ponsonby area for weekend SUP yoga. “SUP yoga is a great way to connect with the ocean as you dive deeper into yourself. The movements are designed to stabilise the body and relax the mind. Our floating yoga studio is portable and can be set up anywhere there is a calm body of water,” says Jo. From time to time, Jo and Robbie Gunderson of SUPBro come down to Auckland and run group activities in the Hauraki Gulf for corporates and sports teams. While SUPing may be the fastest-growing water sport currently, there are other more traditional ways to get closer to the water and enjoy our beautiful scenery. From the earliest waka with flax paddles to the fibreglass style kayaks of the 1970s there is a rich history of waka ama, canoes and kayaks to draw on.
CitySUP Tours
Researchers from the University of Exeter Medical School found that coastal living seemed to reduce the incidence of mental illness, especially for those from low-income households, and other studies consistently found that anyone being in or near water experienced lowered stress and anxiety, as well as increased wellbeing and happiness.
Paul Lelievre, operations manager of Fergs Kayaks, Auckland says that there are quite a few Ponsonby locals who come down and join the regular kayak tours or hire kayaks for some fun weekend fitness. “Often they are couples or friends just doing a fun activity together on a nice day. Others are training for fitness or spending time getting used to being in a kayak for an upcoming adventure race,” explains Paul. Not far from Fergs is the Royal Akarana Yacht Club which offers regular social paddles in the mornings and evenings throughout the week. Fergs offers Epic kayaks, paddles and accessories from its fleet of demo boats for people to ‘try before you buy’. The Auckland Canoe Club, which has been going since the 1950s, is another sea kayaking group based along Tamaki Drive. The club organises regular meetups and events all around the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf and all you have to do is fill in a membership form and pay a small fee to join. Absolute beginners are welcomed and the club offers events for the most advanced kayakers as well.
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
Kayaking to Rangitoto with Fergs Kayaks
Kayaking A must do experience when living so close to the Hauraki Gulf is a night kayak journey over to Rangitoto. Fergs Kayaks have been offering this thrilling adventure for almost 30 years and it is one of the most special ways to get to Rangitoto. With twin kayaks, a more experienced paddler can make the trip easier for someone with less skill and fitness and the experienced instructors make the entire process fun and safe for everyone. Of course, if you want to brush up on your kayak skills before undertaking a traverse across the harbour, Fergs runs a series of basic skills courses that will get anyone ready to take on the challenge.
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Zefiro Luxury charters
HAURAKI GULF FEATURE
Let’s go fishing For those of you who are already keen anglers, it seems in December the snapper are biting. Newbie anglers or those without a boat but a desire to catch their own fish can choose from a good number of fishing charters that leave from Westhaven Marina and the Viaduct. There is something for every taste and ability, from dedicated snapper charters that offer twilight, public fishing trips starting from just $50 per person on a week night, right up to fully catered fishing charters on a 60-foot luxury yacht with private chefs to cook your catch.
fishing spots in the area. “We promise to meet every individual’s needs and to ensure it will be an experience to remember.” Savoy Charters also promises an unforgettable experience and has a charter package designed especially for the less experienced. Savoy’s ‘learn to fish’ luxury fishing charters teach you all you need to know to get started. Fish experts Nathan O’Hearn (Big Angry Fish) and Daniel Dejong (The Fish Freak), take a charter group through
Savoy, Learn to Fish Charters
Skipper Paul Zentveld has decades of experience and believes that he can get even those who have never hooked a fish reeling in the snapper. Paul is well known in the marine industry and has many helpful tips and secrets learnt from years on the water. “I’d say I have one of the best strike rates per trip,” says Paul who knows hundreds of proven
Savoy, Learn to Fish Charters
If Google reviews are anything to go by, you can’t go far wrong if you choose a twilight fishing charter with Snapper Charters based in Westhaven. After work all you need to do is grab your rod, tackle and bait and head down to Z Pier with your chilly bin of ice (you are sure to catch fish to take home, so you will need one). You leave the marina with an experienced skipper on a boat purpose-built for fishing.
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HAURAKI GULF FEATURE A half day ‘Learn to Fish’ package is $3900 + GST for up to 20 people and all you need to bring is yourself and your friends. Emily explains learning to fish is not just for the guys, with women and girls also enjoying Savoy’s learn to fish charters and more advance angling opportunities. For the more experienced, Savoy Charters offers the Savoy X fishing experience on a Tristram Marine 701 Offshore. “It was previously used by the team on the Big Angry Fish TV show and it’s the most amazing fishing platform for offshore fishing adventures. It really is ’next level’ in terms of fishing,” says Emily. For a more leisurely fishing experience or a luxury charter boat cruise it is hard to overlook the stream of great reviews people give Zefiro Luxury Charter boat based in Auckland’s Viaduct. The boat hire rate starting at $3200 + GST for a half-day fishing charter of up to 20 people fishing, or enjoy a full day charter that allows Zefiro to cruise deeper where the big fish are and where it’s more likely to see dolphins. This 60ft motor yacht offers the ultimate in charter boat luxury. It’s interior is breathtaking and in the water it is simply beautiful. When it comes to fishing, Zefiro’s host George and skipper Brett can help guests discover some of the best fishing spots in the Hauraki Gulf. “Depending on what the weather and tides are doing that day, we can work out the most suitable spot for fishing. The Gourmet BBQ menu option onboard Zefiro is exceptional and always very popular. We also prepare some of your catch as delicious fresh sashimi and you take the rest home to enjoy,” says George. Whether you’re an experienced angler or an enthusiast just starting out, there are so many ways to get out on the water without owning your own boat. But if buying a boat is your dream, there are a large number of experienced brokers and marine services available within a stone’s throw of Ponsonby Road, ready to help you. The Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf are truly incredible treasures. Not only
Snapper Fishing Charters on the purpose-built Fishing boat M.V Joy The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
Catching fish with George & Brett of Zefiro Luxury charters
the basics of what gear is needed and how to use it. They cover the common fish species in our local waters, their behaviour and how to hook and cook one. “You go home with a complete understanding of the basics of fishing – enough to enable you to head out on your own adventures with your mates,” says Emily Lucas of Savoy Charters.
are they places of great beauty and resource but being out on their waters is good for us – body, mind and soul. Being safe out on the water Whether you are out on the water for fitness, racing, peace of mind, fishing or leisure, doing it safely is vital. Coastguard New Zealand recommends following five simple rules as the basics for safe boating. 1. Lifejackets, take them and wear them. 2. Skipper Responsibility, the skipper is responsible for all lives on the boat. 3. Communications, take two waterproof ways to communicate. 4. Check the marine weather conditions and be prepared in case they change. 5. Avoid alcohol, you need to be alert to stay safe. Coastguard New Zealand offers a range of courses and services to make sure people stay safe and have fun on our waters. Becoming a member for just $115 can be the best investment a boatie can make. Membership is designed to give people complete peace of mind – whether it’s a flat battery or a sick child, Coastguard will be there for you. A great day’s fishing could be completely spoilt if you find your boat doesn’t start and you can’t get back with your catch. F PN
Catch up to eight snapper per person with Snapper Fishing Charters
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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY
Liz Wheadon: English sparkling wine and Gusbourne Estate You’d be forgiven for reading this heading twice as, yes, it does say English sparkling wine and anyone into serious sparkling wine will want to know all about Gusbourne Estate. These wines are exceptional and we are super excited to be importing them to New Zealand. It seems like only yesterday that I was living on the South Coast in England and there was not a whisper about wine (I was there for a year after I finished school, so okay, maybe it was a little while ago). My point being, the English sparkling wine trade has almost come from nowhere to be a strong contender on the world stage. In fact, there are now more than 500 vineyards producing commercially in Great Britain, with 71% of this being sparkling wine. I was fortunate to spend a week there earlier this year visiting a number of producers to get under the hood and find out more about this fascinating wine producing area. It is from this visit that Glengarry is now very proud to be importing wines from Gusbourne and Chapel Down. The former in store now and the latter due mid December. The vineyards for producing these wines are in the south, with close proximity to the sea. The soil profiles vary across the producing areas, with many high in chalk (think the White Cliffs of Dover), and chardonnay loving these areas. Other areas are full of clay, producing riper, rich soils ideal for pinot noir. These two classic varieties for sparkling wine predominant in production. It’s cool here and, as it is in the Champagne region, marginal for production. As tends to be the case across the world, marginal areas produce some of the finest wines in the world. Gusbourne Estate is located in Kent and is considered the gold standard in English sparkling wines. In 2013, Gusbourne Estate was awarded the title of English Wine Producers of the Year at the International Wine and Spirit Challenge. All fruit used to produce Gusbourne wines is estate grown, the property sitting in an area at Appledore with slopes running down into what historically would have been the coast and is now a damp low-lying area. The distance to the coast brief, the sea moderating the climate. The vineyards are all planted on south-facing slopes, standing in them, the warm dry microclimate is clear to see. The winery and estate as it is today was established in 2004 and has been done so with quality at the forefront. The clones planted all from Burgundy, the viticultural practices all lutte raisonnée – the reasoned struggle, or supervised control. A concept of not adding nor taking but intervening when mother nature requires. At Gusbourne Estate the focus on quality sees them only produce vintage wine and taking all steps required to do so. In 2018 they dropped one third of the fruit on the ground, as it was just simply not good enough.
The name Gusbourne Estate dates back to 1410 when John de Gosborne’s will was filed. The estate then passed to Philip Chute, who won favour with Henry VIII and was awarded a coat of arms. Goosbourne carried three geese which are still seen in the church in Appledore and on the bottles of Gusbourne Estate wines. The Gusbourne Estate wines sit among the best sparkling wines in the world. I was lucky enough to try multiple vintages right back to the 2009. These age slowly and very gracefully, they are beautiful sparkling wines. Gusbourne Estate Blanc de Blancs 2014 100% chardonnay. Predominantly from the Boothill vineyard, this has spent four years on lees and six months on the cork. The nose is pure mineral and very focused. A stony edge with lovely balance. There’s a real energy and drive to the wine. A little oak is used in the production, though less than the 2013. 100% mlf, the dosage 6.5gm. Gusbourne Estate Brut Reserve 2015 60% pinot noir, 22% chardonnay, 18% pinot meunier. Though similar in blend to the 2014, the vintage characters (a cooler vintage) tend in this wine to show more red fruits. Very tightly structured, there’s a wonderful spun sugar note on the palate and incredible drive and focus. An exceptional sparkling wine. Rose 2015 A blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, the noir taking the lead at 54% of the blend.Two to three years on lees, less time than the blanc due to wanting red fruits to shine through. 1-2gm more dosage than the blanc as well. It’s a lovely, light pink colour, created from a mix of saignee (bleeding the colour from the skins) and adding red wine to the white wine. A delicate, fruity style that is PN fragrant and charming. (LIZ WHEADON) F
You’ll find the Gusbourne wines instore now and can taste these and the Chapel Down wines in the first tasting of English sparkling wine at Glengarry Victoria Park on 12 December – details www.glengarry.co.nz/tastings
G U S B O U R N E B L A N C D E B L A N C S 2 014 G U S B O U R N E B R U T R E S E R V E 2 015 G U S B O U R N E R O S É 2 015
FINE WINE DELIVERED SINCE 1945 | WWW.GLENGARRY.CO.NZ
68 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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P: 0800 733 505
| E: SALES@ GLENGARRY.CO.NZ
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY Modern Japanese Main Beach Takapuna Beach Bookings essential Ph 09 390 7188 www.tokyobay.co.nz
Japanese Izakaya Dining Bar Ponsonby Central No bookings required Ph 09 376 8016 www.tokyoclub.co.nz
www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz
Retail, restaurants and recreation all on your doorstep Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122;
-BSHF TFMG DPOUBJOFE SPPNT BOE BQBSUNFOUT 4FMFDUJPO PG NFFUJOH SPPNT )PNF PG UIF 4VSSFZ 1VC 'SFF DPBDI BOE DBS QBSLJOH )BQQZ )PVS QN QN The Surrey Hotel 465 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland, New Zealand Phone + 64 9 378 9059 Fax + 64 9 378 1464 Email reservations@thesurreyhotel.co.nz www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz
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@ SABATO With the festive season in full swing, the little touches are what will make a significant impact to your food. Whether you enjoy barbecuing, salads full of local produce or fresh fish – seasoning is a game changer for all!
as over carpaccio or desserts (as pictured on Vaniyé’s delectable salted caramel macarons).
Used by the top names in Spanish food such as Roca, Subijana, Guerrero, Aduriz, Atxa and Berasategui to name a few, Sal de Añana is from the ancient Valley of Salt in the town of Salinas de Añana (Basque Country). It is considered to be one of the best salt varieties in the world and the valley is currently one of the most spectacular and best-preserved cultural landscapes in Europe. This unique landscape consists of thousands of platforms or salt pans, channels, wells and storage areas.
Provençal Herb & Salt Grinder 75g Pure Añana Salt crystals combined with Herbes de Provence in a handy grinder. Best for seasoning tomatoes, steak or roasted vegetables or for use at the table. Visit our retail store to taste our new products and chat to our knowledgeable staff, or you can shop online. F PN SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, T: 09 630 8751, www.sabato.co.nz
Añana Salt is obtained from the brine of pure spring water which flows from underground veins of solid salt of what were waters of a vast sea 200 million years ago. The crystallisation process is the result of natural, sun-dried evaporation, and is based on three factors: the sun, wind and traditional techniques used by the salt workers. You can enjoy Añana Salt from Sabato in three wonderful forms: Mineral Salt 250g Extremely pure, natural salt crystals, rich in minerals and trace elements. This is ideal for general day-to-day use. Sea Salt Flakes 250g Crunchy flakes that form on the surface of the salt pans during the natural, sun dried, brine evaporation process. Use as a finishing salt where the beautiful pyramid form of the salt can be appreciated such
Merry Xmas xxx
70 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
EAT, DRINK +LOCAL BE MERRY NEWS
NYE BLACK & GOLD GALA Toast to the end of a fantastic 2019 and cheers to the new adventures that 2020 offers! Stamford Plaza Auckland is hosting its first ever NYE Black & Gold Gala Dinner! Live band & DJ - The Triple L Cool Jays 4 hour beverage package Themed buffet dinner Photobooth to capture your memories Cocktail attire Adults only event BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Tuesday 31st December 2019 Stamford Plaza, 22-26 Albert St, Auckland Email bookings@spak.stamford.com.au www.stamfordplazaauckland.co.nz
5 Fort Lane, CBD T: 09 379 9702 cassiarestaurant.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
SIDART, Level 1, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz
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Gary Steel: The plant based, fast-food revolution You know that a revolution really is underfoot when the multinational fast-food franchises buy into the idea, and veganism took a giant stride towards becoming the bona fide alternative to meat-based products recently with both Dominos and Burger Fuel announcing plant-based additions to the menu. While Burger Fuel has offered a taste of vegan for some time with its V8 Vegan burger based around a crumbed pumpkin, carrot and chickpea patty, it has now teamed up with the Alternative Meat Co to launch the Alternative Muscle Burger – based on its American Muscle Burger – with its “juicy, 100% plant-based, ‘beefy’ patty created to look, cook and taste like real meat.” Vegans should take care when ordering, however, as the standard Alternative Muscle Burger is cooked on the same grill as their meat products and contains animal cheese. The vegan version of the Alternative Muscle Burger is completely free of animal products, and prepared separately. The Alternative Muscle Burger is advertised as only being available for a limited time, however. On the other hand, pizza chain Dominos has made a real commitment to the vegan revolution by introducing a separate vegan menu. While I’ve yet to sample Burger Fuel’s latest offering, on a recent weekday I headed out to Dominos’ Mt Eden headquarters to sample said wares and get the lowdown from their head of communications, Yvonne Thynne. They whipped up vegan/plant-based versions of the Taco Fiesta and the Loaded Burger (actually both pizzas), both of which were delicious. Yvonne explained that the non-dairy cheese used is an Australian brand called Follow Your Heart, which doesn’t melt quite as convincingly as some vegan cheeses, but is consistent and tasty. The ‘meat’ was extremely convincing with the texture of minced beef
and a pronounced barbecue flavour. They won’t reveal exactly what’s in their meat substitute, for commercial reasons, but apparently it’s a soy-based concoction. And this month, Dominos will be adding two new meaty flavours, plant-based pepperoni and plant-based ham, along with four new pizzas: Plant-based Hawaiian, Plant-based Supreme, Plant-based Pepperoni and Plant-based Ham and Cheese. Confusingly, what Dominos calls its plant-based range of pizzas are actually vegetarian, so while they contain no meat they do use dairy products. It’s important for vegans, therefore, to specify ‘vegan plant-based’ when ordering. I’ll leave the ongoing debate over meat substitutes to another column. The fact is that the demand for vegan meat continues to rise as many meat eaters come to the conclusion that if it’s close enough to the real thing and doesn’t involve killing a cow then it must be alright. Pricing? Well, let’s say it will be a while before we’ll get $5 vegan pizza deals. The two I sampled were $16.79 (Vegan Plant-based Taco Fiesta) and $16.89 (Vegan Plant-based Loaded Burger) respectively, and that’s for pick up (delivery extra). While it’s not a bargain, it’s also still fairly affordable. And let’s not forget that fast food isn’t designed as an everyday healthful food. Anyone committed enough to go vegan should be eating mostly whole foods and preferably home-cooked foods a good proportion of the time. It’s great news, though, that the likes of Burger Fuel and Dominos can fill a hole in those times when we’re unable to cook and want something simple, tasty and guaranteed to be free of flesh of animal. (GARY STEEL) F PN
Gary Steel is an Auckland-based journalist who runs online vegetarian resource www.doctorfeelgood.co.nz He can be contacted via beautmusic@gmail.com
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY
A Bread & Butter Christmas When I think of Christmas, I think of the traditions which we continue today – the tree, the cake, the roast all have their origin in Germany, the place I was born. I am unsure why Germany came up with all these rituals, but possibly because the bleak, long winter days require some serious lifting of spirits. Since us Germans like to do things properly, we came up with these seriously thorough Christmas rituals. And while we don’t suffer harsh winters around Christmas here in Aotearoa, the traditions are universally recognised – they are about coming together to celebrate with family and friends. Celebrations need food and Christmas foods are some of the most treasured food traditions in any family. In our bakery we focus on the traditional recipes and baking traditions of New Zealand and Germany by making things like Christmas mince tarts and Christmas cakes, but also the classic German marzipan stollen, gingerbread houses, and, for the first time this year, a selection of my family’s Christmas cookies. Having these treats only at certain times of the year is what makes them so special in our hearts. What is ironic to me is that the people preparing these ultimately quintessential European treats are by and large not of European descent, since many of the workers that prepare food in New Zealand are recent migrants from the Asia-Pacific rim. So, although the religious relevance of Christmas is ever diminishing, in the spirit of Christmas we should spare a moment to consider those less fortunate, those who might be far away from their families and friends at this special time of the year.
With the ever changing rules of Immigration NZ, the future for many hospitality workers is far from certain. Can they stay here or will they have to leave next year? This is a very stressful situation for employees and employers and it puts a huge strain on the sector as a whole. Perhaps when you go out to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the coming weeks, take a moment to thank the person serving you as well as the team in the kitchen. Wish them a Merry Christmas and for them to be rewarded for their hard work. And maybe take the time to write an email to your local MP about the value of having good food and how it brings people together and how valuable the people that work in this sector are? Merry Christmas. (ISABEL PASCH) F PN To read more about the employment crisis of migrant workers in hospitality, go to www.breadpolitics.com
Isabel Pasch is the owner of Bread & Butter Bakery & Cafe and the author of the breadpolitics.com blog.
Make Bread & Butter part of your Christmas Gifts of traditional Stollen, Christmas Cakes, Pies, Pastries and Cookies. Bread and Butter Cafe – 34 Westmoreland Street, West Grey Lynn Little Bread & Butter – Ponsonby Central / www.breadandbutter.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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Faces @ Grey Lynn Farmers Market Cameron Owen can be found serving coffees from his cart at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market on Sunday mornings. Have you always been in the hospitality business? No – I had a string of sales jobs and I never enjoyed them. I love coffee and I always thought, ‘I’d like to do that one day’.
cart solo on Sundays, so it’s usually a constant rhythm of making coffee, while taking orders, giving change, while doing my best to maintain a coherent conversation.
How did you make the change? I bought into a cafe in east Auckland where I learnt a lot about customer service and the coffee business.
The Grey Lynn Farmers Market is trying to be zero waste. How does that work with disposable cups? Many customers bring their own keep-cups and we use compostable cups and lids. The market is supported by We Compost who turn the cups and lids back into food for the soil. I’m also looking forward to helping the market develop a system for using glass jars as temporary keep-cups. I think market customers will be keen to support that initiative.
You don’t still have that cafe? No. It started really well until the GFC hit and a new shopping centre was built nearby. I realised that a bricks and mortar outlet is vulnerable to many uncontrollable factors. When our lease came up for renewal, I decided to take a more flexible option. What happened next? Roasting coffee. I realised that if I could roast my own coffee then I could have more control over the quality of the coffee and I can supply to it other cafes. And then I got the coffee cart so that I could take our coffee anywhere. Where have you been with your cart? We are getting a lot of bookings for corporate events, like the launch event we recently did for Air New Zealand. And the recent Christmas exhibition at Studio One Toi Tu- on Ponsonby Road. We also go to big shows like the French Festival and Taste of Auckland – they are non-stop and we serve thousands of coffees at those. But our home location is the Grey Lynn Farmers Market – we are there every Sunday. Why Grey Lynn Farmers Market? I love the regulars and the sense of community there. I operate the
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you while serving customers? I’m okay at recognising people and faces, but I’m hopeless with names. At my cafe, there were two friends who always came in together and I knew their names but always struggled with which name belonged to which man, and one day I used the wrong name for the wrong man. It was embarrassing and I know that it’s something I have to work on. Do you ever manage to get a break? It can be hard to get a break. I work odd hours, my wife is studying full time to be a midwife and we have a four-year-old son. Sometimes he visits me at the market but he wants to ‘help’ and finds it hard leaving ‘Daddy’ at the market. Binging on Netflix is always a good way to unwind and I’m hoping that we’ll get some time on our paddle board over the Christmas break. F PN www.glfm.co.nz
The New Zealand Labour Party wishes to advise that nominations for the Labour candidate in the Auckland Central Electorate for the 2020 General Election are now open.
FOR NOMINATION FORMS GO TO... www.labour.org.nz/party_resources or contact the New Zealand Labour Party at nominations@labour.org.nz or (04) 384 7649 for more information. The closing date for nominations is 5pm, Friday, 17 January 2020. Authorised by Andre Anderson, 160 Willis St, Wellington
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
THE ONLY WAY IS UP
Ponsonby Central, in retrospect and in prospect. With another year gone in a flash we look back on the early days and the exciting evolution that lays ahead.
WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON
In November 2012 the corner of Richmond and Ponsonby Roads gave way to a new idea, a communitycentric concept that said no to another apartment block and yes to preserving the Allen Calendar building we now know as Ponsonby Central. The laneways were filled with new eateries, retailing and a whole new experience for Auckland.
KidsCan Christmas 15 Nov - 10 Dec Support KidsCan by dropping a wrapped gift into the Ponsonby Central donation box and help brighten Christmas for families doing it tough this year.
Seven years on and although details may have evolved, the same under-designed, rustic industrial feel that brings us arguably the best of everything food and drink has to offer , remains.
Ponsonby Central Santa
In the early days the butcher, the baker and the fresh vege retailer gave life to a bustling market place +owever as Neat Meat and Ceresâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; businesses grew, their focus moved to their wholesale and exporting operations. So we welcomed some more passionate foodies into our hood, bringing more of what you love, authentic global flavours and street food.
PAST.
From 25 Nov The infamous Ponsonby Central Santa is up in all his glory! Come take a peek before checking out the Franklin lights.
Ponsonby Market Day
7 Dec Ponsonby Central will have free entertainment and $10 food specials available all day.
Laneway Sessions 7 Dec 2pm Join us in the lane outside Bedford Soda & Liquor for live music from Lucky May followed by DJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Summer Sundowners
Make the most of the long summer nights with drink specials throughout Ponsonby Central every Friday. 2
PRESENT.
1. Western Suburbs Gazette,1958 2. Ponsonby Central laneway, 2012
1
With the constant â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;heart of Ponsonbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ethos in mind, the expansion that will see the site double in size is on the horizon and boy does it look good. The literal building blocks for this development, in the form of recycled bricks, have been delivered from Christchurch and are ready to be re-homed as the foundation of more eateries, more shops, more car parks and the addition of character office spaces. In the Ponsonby Central â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as it is fondly known by employees, construction has officially reached the bottom and the only way now is up.
FUTURE.
. 234 piles driven 30m deep and 9000m2 of soil excavated to form our new underground carpark.
3
More car parks. More shops. More eateries. More offices. More of what you love.
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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Phil Parker: Happy summer holidays! Wines for celebration Here we go folks! Warmer temperatures herald the arrival of summer and thus the Christmas and New Year holiday season will soon be upon us. My prediction – the early blooming pohutukawa forecasts a long, hot, dry summer. So stock up on white wines and rosés to pop in the fridge for those lazy days of picnics, beaches and barbecues. And don’t forget that a hearty red with go well with barbecue meats after the sun goes down. Special celebrations call for special wines to share with your best friends and family, so I’ve gone all out and picked out six stunning premium wines for this December wine column. Traditional method bubblies are great at any time and with any meal. I’ve included a lovely aged red and a great dessert wine to finish.Enjoy – and Season’s Greetings! Soljans Brut Methode Traditionelle 2013 - $33 Award-winning Kumeu sparkler from Soljans, third generation Croatian family winemakers. Traditional pinot noir/ chardonnay blend. Yellow gold colour. Smells like Packham pear, apricots and hazelnut nougat, with a hint of yeasty baked bread. Rich, complex and integrated palate of mandarin, frangipane tart and rock melon, with a dry, crisp finish. Available: soljans.co.nz
crystals and is presented in a black box with built-in lighting that switches on to illuminate the sparkling crystals when opened. 80% chardonnay/20% pinot noir blend, and has spent three years resting on yeast lees. Aromas of citrus blossom and stone fruit, with a hint of yeasty brioche. Delicately beaded bubbles and palate of crisp minerality with a hint of marmalade, peach and nougat. Crisp and lengthy finish with a tad of clover honey. Available: Glengarry.
Mudbrick Vineyard Methode Traditionelle (NV) - $30 Wow. Mudbrick winemaker Patrick Newton nails it again with this Waiheke Island stunner. 24 carat gold colour. Aromas of beeswax, brioche and clover honey. In the mouth, it’s a complex and lush palate of preserved peach, ripe apricot, toffee and hint of toasty oak with a slow, golden sunset finish. I’m in love. Available: www.mudbrick.co.nz
Peacock Sky Waiheke Pure Merlot 2014 - $50 Boutique Waiheke producer Peacock Sky celebrates 10 years in operation this year. After a fantastic harvest in 2013, another great vintage occurred in 2014 – and this 100% merlot is a great example of wine from a hot, dry Waiheke summer. A pure, single varietal wine from estate-grown fruit. Aromas of plum and fruitcake. Flavours of ripe, spiced plum with blackberry, redcurrant and well-balanced French oak. Round and soft, with a long finish. Available: Glengarry and www.peacocksky.co.nz
No 1 Family Estate Cuvée - $36 French-born Champagne maker Daniel Le Brun launched his family owned méthode traditionelle-producing business back in 1999 in Marlborough. Daniel uses the processes perfected by his Champagne making family in France over 12 generations. The cuvée is pale gold and made from 100% chardonnay grapes in the blanc de blanc style. Delicate citrus, yeast and floral aromas. Spent two years on yeast lees. Tastes rich and creamy with flavours of blanched almond, nectarine and a hint of mandarin. Lengthy palate with a dry, but not bone dry, finish. Available: Glengarry. No 1 Family Estate Adèle Cuvée 2013 - $240 Dedicated to Daniel’s charming wife Adèle, this wine is a show-stopper for its packaging alone. The bottle is decorated with Swarovski
Pegasus Bay Waipara ‘Finale’ Noble Semillon / Sauvignon 2017 - $42 Renowned Waipara label Pegasus Bay produces a range of awardwinning wines. This dessert style ‘noble’ wine is modelled on the French sauternes, ie, left late on the vine until shrivelled like sultanas and also affected by botrytis. These two factors concentrate the sugars and make a complex sweet wine. Smells like beeswax, honey and toffee. Intense flavours of grapefruit marmalade, hazelnut, crème brûlée and preserved pineapple with a crisp acidic nudge from the sauvignon blanc. A great match with a cheese board, dried fruit and nuts. Available: pegasusbay.com. (PHIL PARKER) F PN
FINE WINE & FOOD TOURS “No. 4 Auckland Food & Drink” – TripAdvisor Your host, Phil Parker wine writer. Boutique tours for small and large groups.
E: phil.parker@xtra.co.nz
76 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
www.insidertouring.co.nz
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Not all heroes wear capes. Hell Pizza Grey Lynn is a good example of this. The team at Hell has been delivering free pizzas to the residents of the James Liston Hostel in Freemans Bay for the past four months. “We send 20 large pizzas on the first Monday of every month. It’s great to see them happy, even if it’s just a small gesture.” The hostel’s primary purpose is to provide emergency accommodation and other support to the homeless. It started as a project by the laity of four separate churches over 40 years ago and is supported by the Lions Club. “We have done this in two main ways,” says hostel manager Charlotte Ama. “By providing hostel accommodation to meet the needs of up to 40 temporary homeless men and women and, more recently, being the major supporter and funder of the emergency shelter in the Auckland CBD. “We have taken up the challenge of directly addressing both the emergency accommodation and rough-sleeper needs in the CBD as part of the Auckland Homeless Action Plan.” The hostel’s new vision is to directly address emergency accommodation and to end rough sleeping in Auckland by 2022. “We are a very small Non-Government Organisation,” says Charlotte. “Financially it is tough but we keep the place running with what we have. All support and donations from the local and extended community are really appreciated. The help we are receiving from Hell is amazing. It is such a treat for our residents, many of whom have been going through a bit of hell themselves.” F PN HELL PIZZA, 280 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 0666, www.hellpizza.com
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HEROES FROM HELL
EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY
CIAO BELLI Pane e Vino, one of Ponsonby’s favourite Italian restaurants now has a little sister, Ciao Belli in Kingsland. Just like Pane e Vino, Ciao Belli is dedicated to making homemade pasta and pizza from the freshest ingredients using authentic Italian recipes and cooking methods. “I want to transport people into the kitchen of my Nonna, whose cooking was legendary. The time I spent in her kitchen growing up is what inspires me now and can be tasted in many of my dishes,” says Tito Cucciniello, owner and chef of Pane e Vino and Ciao Belli. On the menu at Ciao Belli is Tito’s signature home-made gnocchi. An absolute favourite at Pane e Vino and sure to be a favourite at the new Kingsland eatery. Another must try is the Gnocco Fritto, this fried dough, bite style dish comes from the Emilia Romagna region in central Italy. Served with traditional salamis and parma ham it is the perfect appetiser. The Moretti Forni pizza oven, imported from Italy, cooks the ultimate, authentic Italian pizza and nothing could be better than enjoying
an evening of delicious Italian food with wonderful hosts like Mirko Scardoni and Tito Cucciniello. With gluten-free pizza home-made daily, PN everyone can enjoy authentic Italian dining. F
CIAO BELLI PASTA AND PIZZA, 503 New North Road, Kingsland, T: 09 815 3834, www.paneevino.co.nz/Ciao-belli-pasta-and-pizza
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY Restaurant
The Hunting Lodge Winery has a big story to tell From a critically acclaimed restaurant, and a lounge-style lawn bar, to a first-class cellar door and dream-like event facilities, The Hunting Lodge is well worth the 35-minute drive out into the rural hills of Waimauku. Packed with events and extended opening hours for the summer, this destination hangout spot truly is the perfect escape from the hustle bustle of Auckland.
Cellar Door
We caught up with Philip Stack, Head of Hospitality, to find out what The Hunting Lodge has got planned for the busy summer months ahead. Turns out, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not short of events!
The renowned Hunting Lodge Restaurant recently made it into the top 100 Cuisine Restaurants for the second time. With award-winning chef Des Harris, you are promised a creative and seasonal dining experience. New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve will, however, bring a more casual and social approach to serving just as memorable cuisine. Kicking off at 5pm, guests and staff will flow between the restaurant patio and lawn bar to merge the experiences of the two and deliver a casual evening of food, wine and good vibes. The summer ahead brings some exciting additions to The Hunting Lodge range, including two special releases! In collaboration with Liberty Brewing Co, Blush Crushâ&#x201E;˘ is a sparking pink sauvignon blanc and The Hunting Lodge has bottled its crisp and dry Apple Cider by popular request from the public. Finally, the 2019 vintage roll overs bring a fresh bottle line-up. An ever evolving range means each visit to The Hunting Lodge will never be quite the same as the last.
Lawn Bar Food
On Sunday the 15 December, The Hunting Lodge turns three and invites you to celebrate with them. From 11am, kids will eat free till 12.30pm, then the family fun day will kick on into a late afternoon and evening Sunday Session with the fabulous Mia Paris taking to the stage for a DJ set from 3-7pm. Groovy music will be complemented by award-winning wine, Liberty beer and casual-style food. To top it all off, stock up on wine for the Christmas break with the lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday celebration wine sale! Extra keen bargain hunters can start shopping the wine sale at 9am.
A busy summer expected at The Hunting Lodge brings longer opening hours for your enjoyment. Lawn Bar Monday 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm Tuesday 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm Wednesday 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm Thursday 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm Friday 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9pm Saturday 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7pm (9pm on long weekends)
Restaurant Monday CLOSED Tuesday CLOSED Wednesday 5.30pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9pm Thursday 11.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm, 5.30pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9pm Friday 11.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm, 5.30pm - 9pm Saturday 11.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm, 5.30pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9pm Sunday 11.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm
3RD B-DAY
:35/& &&3'
THE HUNTING LODGE WINERY, 305-307 Waikoukou Valley Road, Waimauku, T: 09 965 5024, www.thehuntinglodge.com
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
SUNDAY SESSION
15. 12. 19.
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TRAVEL BREAKS
The best of the Med Buried Roman cities, teetering coastal villages, awe-inspiring art and sun-kissed beaches — the Mediterranean has a special magic that always leaves you wanting more! Naturally a cruise is the best way to experience it all. With iconic port cities lining the coast, you can pull in at a unique spot each day, and retreat to your luxurious ‘home base’ each night. For those looking for a little more than a cruise, World Journeys has combined the best of both worlds with some in-depth touring of Venice, Tuscany and the charming villages of the Cinque Terre, followed by an extensive 20-night Mediterranean cruise. Departing Rome, you ‘set sail’ for the walled city of Dubrovnik with its polished limestone streets, theatrical architecture and charming
80 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
cafes. The easiest way to explore is simply on foot. Take a walk on the city wall for a bird’s eye view! On to Greece, the island of Corfu is infused with culture and history, set amongst stunning beaches, verdant mountains and traditional villages. From Katakolon head to Olympia, founded in the 8th Century BC and site of the original Olympic Games. Athens is deserving of the often over-used word ‘iconic’. Ancient structures neighbour modern apartments, performances are staged in old amphitheatres, and millennia-old monuments are scattered around the Acropolis. Santorini is just picture perfect, the white-washed buildings set
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
TRAVEL BREAKS against blue skies and azure seas. Turkey also boasts impressive ancient ruins – with one of most legendary cities of the ancient world at Ephesus. Arriving in Naples, you have the chance to visit Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi coast, but save some energy for Rome. Need we mention the ancient Roman Forum and Coliseum, St Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s Peter and the Sistine Chapel – dive in! Visit the eclectic island of Gibraltar, and enjoy a real taste of Spain in Cadiz and Barcelona. Stop in at the famous Dali Museum of Palamos, then delight in the colourful Gaudi architecture, and salivate your way around the Bouqueria Markets of Las Ramblas. Get a glimpse of the lives of the rich and famous in Monte Carlo, with its casinos, boutique-lined boulevards and glitzy restaurants, but make sure you wander off the main drag and you’ll find some charming old streets. Livorno is the gateway to Pisa and Florence, but if you’re happy to enjoy a leisurely local lunch, we can recommend the cacciuco, a local spicy fish stew. Returning to Rome, reflect on the diversely amazing ports-of-call you have just experienced. A small group of no more than 18 guests will be hosted on this journey, but that’s where any resemblance to a standard tour group ends. Special experiences have been included to provide that ‘wow’ factor, such as wine tasting in Tuscany, dinner at an olive farm and a private walking tour of the world’s oldest Jewish quarter in Venice. Your World Journeys host is there to take care of tipping and generally smooth the way, leaving you to simply relax and enjoy the very best of PN the Med. (CAROLINE CLEGG, WORLD JOURNEYS) F
BEST OF THE MED
A SMALL GROUP HOSTED JOURNEY Explore Venice and Tuscany, then embark on a cruise of iconic Med ports from Dubrovnik to Athens, Santorini, Rome, Gibraltar, Barcelona and more. Truly the best of the Med.
32 DAY TOUR departing 16 SEPTEMBER 2020
from $15,520 pp (twin) including flights! Contact your Travel Agent, or World Journeys
09 360 7311 www.worldjourneys.co.nz /worldjourneys
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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TRAVEL BREAKS
Ross Thorby: If you are venturing into pirate waters, Cunard has your back With the Land of the Pharaoh behind us, we leave the Suez Canal and head into the Red Sea towards the Gulf of Aden. The placid blue seas, tranquil breezes and occasional passing whale, belie an underlying current that pervades the otherwise relaxed atmosphere on our lido deck... this is pirate territory – and I don’t mean the croupiers from the casino. This time I’m serious and mean it’s the real thing – cutlasses, guns and a jaunty ‘kerchief around their necks, but not in a fun Johnny Depp-Jack Sparrow sort of way. If you had seen the movie ‘Captain Phillips’, you will know what I mean. This morning we had our first pirate drill for this trip. Everyone had to return to their staterooms (this is Cunard, they aren’t called cabins) then sit in the corridors (sorry, companionways) well away from any window. The theory being should a rocket launcher be fired at the ship it would have two walls and a door to go through before hitting us. Someone had really thought this through. In fact, a number of years ago, off the coast of Mauritania, where a captain had been a bit dismissive of the dangerous coastline he was passing, a rocket launcher blasted a hole in the hull of his ship. Fortunately, the ship was sea-worthy enough to outrun the pursuing pirates and they headed out to sea with the corsairs in hot, but fruitless pursuit. These drills aren’t held for fun, they have serious undertones. For this part of the voyage, we have our own security officer on board (Seco). He has 20 years’ naval experience and 10 years as a police officer. Fortunately, we are Cunard, so his normal duties onboard are pretty mundane, maybe a little cheating at Bridge or, at most, the occasional strong objection over an excessive bar tab in the Commodore Club. Seco’s duties mainly revolve around searching luggage for contraband and flagging down erratic and speeding wheelchairs around our normally serene decks.
Ponsonby News Readers are everywhere...
But a word of warning, they don’t like bomb jokes onboard ship any more than they do on aeroplanes. The excitement of marshalling our security detail through seas that were, until only recently, considered to be high risk, must be a welcome distraction. Of course, being British, our officers are experts at piracy – after all, England practically invented the occupation. Francis Drake was mugging the Spanish for their gold at the behest of Queen Elizabeth and enjoying the fruits of his profession just a little too much for some. Maybe that is why the British Navy is one of the foremost experts in Maritime Security, but don’t forget the expertise of our resident team of Gurkha’s. We always have a small team onboard this particular passage to back up Seco and his people, they are often women, and they are primed in the art of killing a man without breaking into a sweat. They might look fun but they are not to be trifled with. Speaking from experience – trust me. We have also taken onboard two armed specialised security personnel. Marksmen, whose job at night is to protect both the port and starboard sides of the ship and, of course, the technology of the ‘LRADS’. A circular dish secured to the ship that emits a frequency of sound that can deafen a man at 300 paces and scramble his brain at 500. Striding along the decks, our heroes constantly scan the horizon for interlopers such as fast speed boats that could possibly overtake us, throw grappling irons over our hull and invade the pool deck. All while avoiding the sun worshippers and those still agile and sober enough to play shuffleboard. If they could get that close to the ship, they would also have to contend with a very low-tech defence. Razor wire. It’s not pretty, but it is installed along the length of the ship. This stuff is sharp enough to cut the beard off a Taliban. Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of the Multinational Coalition Task Force, the threat of piracy to cruise ships seems to be fading. Today, the few targets left to them seem to be the numerous oil tankers and cargo ships that visit these waters, but it is comforting to know that if you’re venturing into pirate waters, Cunard has your back. So, pass me another ‘Dead Pirates’ cocktail; yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum, I have a deck chair calling my name. PN (ROSS THORBY) F
Ponsonby resident Cash Taliaferro reads Ponsonby News while dad Michael shops in DALLAS, TEXAS on a recent holiday.
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TRAVEL BREAKS
Five benefits of family travel 1. Spend quality time together Shared life experiences such as travel can bring families closer together with the opportunity to spend uninterrupted time together. The trip itself will provide many opportunities to strengthen relationships. Travel takes away distractions such as work, school and the daily family routine and creates more time to talk, experience and play together. 2. Create lasting memories Taking time together to share experiences and activities creates memories that will be recalled and reminisced about for many years. 3. Experience the world from a child’s perspective Children are naturally inquisitive, so having them around makes the family as a whole see what they otherwise might not have noticed. Seeing children’s reactions to the world’s most extraordinary sights and scenery can remind an adult to feel that appreciation, too. Travelling with kids encourages you to travel at a slower pace with time to experience new destinations. 4. Travel education Travel, even at the planning stage, can reignite a child’s curiosity and sense of adventure regardless of their age. Exploration and experiencing new cultures with new people broadens all of our horizons. Children are able to absorb knowledge through experiential learning, so while embracing new cultures, trying new cuisines and getting to know local customs, they may even pick up a little of the language. 5. Teach children flexibility and adaptability Experiencing an unfamiliar culture will create many new and unpredictable situations. When you are in a place where languages, customs, transportation and food are different to what you are used to, there will be plenty of unpredictability. So, plan a trip! Detach from your daily stress; teach your children how to adapt to unplanned situations; expose children to new experiences; connect as a family and create memories for the future – all accomplished with a family holiday.
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
HELLOWORLD TRAVEL PONSONBY 2019 TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS: Dave Nagel: India is a great place to experience culture, colour and, of course, the exquisite cuisine that is Indian food. Nan Sima: My favourite is Bali, the highlight was staying at Tony’s Villas Seminyak as all the staff had the ‘old world service’ discipline and made you feel so welcome without being obtrusive or intrusive! Value for money destination unprecedented. David Simms: China is not what we imagine it to be like; a country with 2200 years of history and culture, having large areas of parks, trees and great open spaces. It has so much history and culture, food and shopping. Caroline Sowden: Aloha Hawaii! Perfect climate, total relaxation when staying on the Island of Maui, beautiful scenery. Great food, bars and then there is shopping! Totally my go-to destination! Rhonda Morris: Skiing in Whistler, BC Canada. Being North America’s largest ski resort in North America there is so much to explore, see and do. The longest ski run is 11km long! That’s equivalent to travelling from the Viaduct Basin to St Heliers. It also has a great township with great eateries, shops and PN nightlife, so makes a perfect stop for a ski vacation. F
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TRAVEL BREAKS
Inspired by the wonder and scale of India’s jewellery industry Local fine jewellery designers and craftsmen Grant Bagnall and Phil Grieve of Carats Jewellers, returned recently from a tour through India and Asia where they saw first hand the scale, scope and beauty of one of the world’s largest gem and jewellery industries. India contributes to 29% of global jewellery consumption and is worth over $75 billion US dollars. The pair were part of an education tour organised by Peter Minturn Goldsmith School (PMGS) and hosted by president, Chandan Ohri. Together with other jewellers and PMGS students, the owners of Carats embarked on an exploration of jewellery making techniques from traditional to modern and the latest developments of the world’s most rapidly growing fine jewellery market. Their journey took them through New Delhi to Agra where a visit to the Taj Mahal set the bar for design excellence, craftsmanship and
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sheer scale. “It earns itself a place as one of the wonders of the world,” says Grant. The beauty of this building is breathtaking. Photos really don’t do it justice. I couldn’t stop looking at it, everything in it was just so detailed. All the marble inlays are solid, semi-precious stones like black onyx, orange carnelian and blue turquoise.” Visiting jewellery manufacturers in Jaipur gave the bespoke jewellers from Auckland their first insight into the sheer size and technology available in India. “Everything is done on a large scale. In the factories we visited, the jewellers do one specific task on the pieces they are making. One piece might pass through half a dozen jewellers in a big production line, whereas in New Zealand the jeweller will undertake the entire manufacturing process from start to finish, ready to be set,” explains Grant. Surat, the world’s biggest hub of diamond cutting and polishing was a real treat as both Grant and Phil were able to get a close look at a beautiful, large heart-shaped diamond valued at over $250,000 US ($400,000 NZD). “We even found a couple of gem dealers tucked away down the backstreets; they had clean sacks full of rough, uncut gems, mainly semi precious,” says Phil. Another incredible piece of fine jewellery technology not seen in New Zealand is the large, Italian chain-linking machines. It’s impressive to watch the chain-making machines in action. The gold wire is fed into the machines in 1kg coils and the machine forms, interlinks and laser welds each link. The engineering precision is incredibly impressive,” says Grant. Both Phil and Grant have a fluid process for design, letting the gems they are working with drive a design narrative that guides the connection the final piece will have with the potential wearer. Both the gems and the rich culture in India provided them with so much inspiration. “The experience of just walking around the streets and the markets was a highlight in itself. The people are so friendly and just want to either talk or be of help. They are very proud of their country but India is a crazy, busy place. The act of crossing the road is an experience you will never forget, a leap of faith,” recalls Grant. Since being back, Grant and Phil have begun working on collection that draws on the intricate and very ornate style of jewellery popular in India. “Their jewellery, like their architecture, reflects and incorporates the style of different cultures and religions. They use large, semi-precious stones surrounded by precious gemstones to create spectacular pieces they can’t not be noticed,” explains Grant. From this, Grant and Phil are in the process of making a few pieces that are worthy of a grand night out, a little lavish but still in keeping with the New Zealand aesthetic. “Most New Zealanders are a little conservative when it comes to jewellery, so we often find more subtle ways to connect our pieces with bigger ideas or themes,” say Phil. “For example, the shape of the koru is incorporated subtley into many of our pieces and this is one way we connect our work to Aotearoa. The trip through India was an inspirational learning experience, it is a country with a 5000-year history in jewellery making and the industry is growing rapidly in terms of manufacturing and big jewellery houses.” Today there is culture of knowledge sharing and design collaboration that wasn’t always the case for the skilled artisans who produced the Taj Mahal. “It’s amazing to think that the craftsmen who created the Taj Mahal had their hands cut off so another Taj Mahal could never be built again, but on the up side they and their families were looked after and fed for the rest of their lives,” says Grant. (ANDREA KAHUKIWA) The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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FASHION 30 REASONS + STYLE
EASY SUMMER STYLE Summer is all about taking things at a slower pace, keeping life as uncomplicated as possible in order to soak up as much of that beautiful weather as we can. You can apply this to your wardrobe and beauty routine too, with many of my favourite locally sourced and locally based brands offering up some pretty special solutions with this in mind. I personally love the ease of summer dressing, which for me involves a few carefully chosen layers that can be switched up depending on the temperature – and the situation. Especially if you’re heading out of town, you want a wardrobe that’s flexible and user friendly, going easily from the beach to the bar and beyond. I love the recent resurgence of one-piece swimwear, which can easily be transformed into the top half of a seriously chic evening outfit with a skirt or pants and some carefully chosen accessories. The PAPER LONDON label – available in New Zealand at The Luxe Edit – offers a chic, sustainable solution to what to wear at the beach under the name PAPER Plage. Working to minimise ocean waste without compromising on style, each piece is crafted from sustainable jersey made using recycled fishing nets. With Margot Robbie and Jennifer Lopez amongst the brand's fans, it’s safe to say that it’s swimwear that most definitely makes a statement.
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Witchery Limited Edition resort
Paper London Coconut Swimsuit
Moochi Swim
At A a slightly lower price point, Witchery’s Limited Edition resort collection offers great easy pieces to wear on and off the beach. My picks include the Leopard Bikini for an Italian Riviera air, and the Lynx One Piece – one minute swimwear, the nnext a lush bodice layered under the Estelle Silk Sho Short. New Zealand brand moochi also has some seriously seriou covetable swimwear pieces this season under the name moochi swim. A natural extension of moochi mainline, moochi swim offers clean-line the mo one pieces pie and understated separates that have been impecca impeccably crafted for the perfect fit, along with resort wear and a accessories for around-the-clock style.
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A New Zealand label that I immediately associate with lazy days is General Sleep. This summer, the label continues to explore versatility with a pared-down line of sleepwearmeets-daywear that is perfect for those balmy summer months. In keeping with the relaxed ease of beachy vacations, the new collection focuses on the lightest cottons and cotton silk for a barely there layer you won’t want to take off. Summer shades of cool celery, juicy pear gingham and a salt stripe set the tone for easy mix and match ensembles that work as well during the heat of the day as they do at night, like the Paloma Set, made up of a relaxed-fit camisole paired with wide leg, cropped trousers. Switch it up by partnering the camisole with your favourite jeans or throw the trousers on over your swimsuit before hitting the beach.
Ingrid Starnes’ Royalist dress from the resortwear collection
Knuefermann’s Brazil dress
General Sleep
For something a little more dressed up, both Ingrid Starnes and Turet Knuefermann have stunning resort-style pieces in store that will elevate your poolside look to the next level. Starnes has designed a specialty resortwear collection in dreamy pale shades, whilst Knuefermann’s pieces come in all manner of statement prints. The Brazil dress by the latter is my favourite maxi dress of the season, and looks great with heels and Birkenstocks alike.
Working Style summer
For local menswear stars Working Style, summer celebrates the continued softening of the current man’s wardrobe, with emphasis on adaptable garments. Mediterranean blue, sage green and tan are the foundation colours of the season, and lightweight cotton and linen offer a relaxed and effortless silhouette, like the summer blazer pictured here. Tailored in a lightweight cotton linen, wear it with your favourite t-shirt for chic after hours style. For men, a great swimwear option of choice is a pair of Bather trunks, available exclusively at Workshop. Bather set out to create the perfect swim trunk that reflected a commitment to design, function and quality, and a seamless transition from the beach to the streets is assured. The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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Studio Red Wellness Tea
PAPER London Coconut swimsuit and Hideseeker’s palazzo pants
FASHION + STYLE Moochi Swim
RMS Beauty Un Cover-Up Cream Foundation
On the beauty front, your main weapon of choice for summer (or at any time of year, really) is a great sunblock. My favourite brand for the whole family is always COOLA, who does an effortless mix of clean ingredients and high-performance protection. And as the safest tan is always a faux glow, I highly recommend COOLA's new Organic Sunless Tan Luminizing Body Serum. This double-duty serum instantly illuminates with light-reflecting mica, whilst building a natural-looking tan that lasts up to three days. Perfect for using right before you head to the beach or before a night out, it absorbs effortlessly before delivering a soft glow.
RMS Beauty Sensual Skin Trio Palette
Emma Lewisham Skin Shield
Ponsonby woman Emma Lewisham is a new name in the beauty field, but her eponymous brand is already doing impressive things. Her first creation was Skin Reset, which she calls the ultimate 'hero' serum for an even, glowing complexion. Made using 24 of the world's most active natural ingredients, it's clinically proven to be as effective as anything else out there when it comes to repairing and preventing hyperpigmentation. In addition, Emma has also created Skin Shield SPF 30 – a broad spectrum sunscreen that meets the highest of international testing standards and is a joy to wear. I also like to keep things easy on the makeup front come summer, with some of my favourite picks available at MECCA. I love clean beauty pioneer RMS Beauty’s new Un Cover-Up Cream Foundation, which applies like a charm and is suitable for even the most sensitive skin. If you’re on the go, consider the brand’s Un Cover-Up concealer, which also does double duty as a light foundation and comes in tiny, travelfriendly pots. The creamy formula auto-adjusts to match your skin tone and blends seamlessly into the skin to cover imperfections, and a little definitely goes a long way. Add a combo from the RMS Beauty Sensual Skin Trio and you have a flawless, natural face for night and day. For the ultimate low maintenance option before summer, head into OFF & ON for one of their famous Lash Lifts accompanied by nightly applications of RevitaLash lash serum – spend the summer without mascara, but most definitely with long, lush lashes. Last up, have a healthier summer by swapping the odd Champagne out for Studio Red Wellness Teas. Created by Studio Red founder – and newly minted tea sommelier – Vicky Cullinane, they are a range of fine, organic teas sourced from all over the world to provide the PN ultimate tea experience. (HELENE RAVLICH) F
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Emma Lewisham
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FASHION + STYLE
@ CARATS 1. Top-quality, hand-crafted diamond engagement rings from Carats 2. 18ct white gold grain set Hidden Heart pendant, 15mm 3. 18ct white gold gypsy set diamond Hidden Heart pendant, 15mm
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4. 18ct yellow gold grain set Hidden Heart pendant, 15mm 5. 18ct yellow gold ruby and diamond Hidden Heart pendant, 11mm 6. 18ct gold diamond koru Hidden Heart pendant, 9.5mm 7. 18ct yellow gold gypsy set diamond Hidden Heart pendant, 15mm 8. 18ct gold diamond koru Hidden Heart pendant, 22.5mm
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CARATS, 25 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD, T: 09 309 5145, www.caratsjewellery.co.nz
Share the treasure of the Hidden Heart â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a secret that is only revealed when viewed from above.
25 Vulcan Lane, Auckland, New Zealand phone 309 5145 www.caratsjewellery.co.nz www.facebook.com/CaratsNZ
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As one of the few decorative elements in the working man’s wardrobe that allows for the expression of personality, the tie carries a lot of responsibility. Using the story of local tie manufacturer, Parisian, the New Zealand Fashion Museum looks at what continues to make the tie tick. It documents the step-by-step process of the making of a tie with a dynamic video, and it explores the symbolism of the tie and how men use it to communicate their identity through what they wear.
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photography: © Parisian Neckwear
Parisian Ties 1919-2019 is a pop-up exhibition curated by the New Zealand Fashion Museum, which opens this month at Fifth Avenue on Ponsonby Road.
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Up until this time all neckwear was imported, but the Parisian factory, established on Upper Lorne Street, changed that, growing rapidly so that after just two years in business there were 50 ‘girls’ employed at the factory. In 2019 Parisian is still a family business and is marking 100 years of design and manufacturing in New Zealand. Although the factory moved from the city centre to make way for Mayoral Drive, they did not go far and today they make their ties in imposing premises that overlook Myers Park. Parisian is an example of a heritage New Zealand brand that has survived depression, war, deregulation and cheap imports and proudly continues to be locally made. The exhibition takes the form of a window display of ties dating from the 1920s to today. It is supported by a small catalogue that is available for purchase in-store, and by more detailed information and stories online at www.nzfashionmuseum.org.nz/a-decorative-biasparisian-ties-1919-2019/
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photography: © Parisian Neckwear
The story of the New Zealand tie starts with Callil Abdallah who travelled from here to America in search of inspiration for a new venture. On a train, he struck up a conversation with a tie maker who explained to him how to make a necktie. Callil drew the tie pattern onto a napkin and tucked it into his pocket. Back home, his daughter Ruby, a seamstress, made the first tie from this pattern and in 1919 Callil established Parisian Neckwear, and the family has been making ties here ever since.
photography: © Parisian Ties
With rising informality in dress codes, even in our work attire, it will come as no surprise that there is a renewed desire to ‘dress up’ and to participate in traditionally formal events such as weddings and dining out. For men, that often means wearing a suit and a tie.
A Decorative Bias unpacks the subtleties of the messages and the sophistication of the manufacture of these few simple centimetres of bias-cut cloth. Following successful showings around New Zealand from Auckland to Ashburton, the exhibition will have one final outing at Fifth Avenue Menswear, 216 Ponsonby Road from 2 December 2019. In-depth stories to support the objects in the exhibition can be found here: www.nzfashionmuseum.org.nz/parisian-ties www.nzfashionmuseum.org.nz/making-ties-in-newzealand/ The exhibition curators Kelly Dix and Doris de Pont can be contacted for more information. F PN kelly@nzfashionmuseum.org.nz or M: 021 345 044. doris@nzfashionmuseum.org.nz or M: 021 680 860.
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photography: © Parisian Neckwear
FASHION + STYLE
A DECORATIVE BIAS
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FASHION + STYLE photography: © Parisian Ties photography: © Parisian Ties
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photography: © Parisian Neckwear
photography: © Parisian Neckwear photography: © Parisian Ties
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1. Barney and Digby Crompton with the Parisian sales team 2. Parisian staff making loop ties in the 1960s 3. Parisian Ties celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1969 4. Many of Callil’s extended family worked for Parisian, including his son-in-law Barney Crompton and grandson Digby Crompton 5. Callil Abdallah (left) inspecting bolts of fabric 6. Harry Gedye of Parisian cutting the three parts of a tie 7 & 8. Ad for Parisian Ties 9. Parisian advertisement from the 1960s
SHOE REPAIRS KEY CUTTING + KNIFE SHARPENING
NEW
Shoe Repairs
Photo Printing Framing
Key Cutting Shoe Care Products Photo Printing / Framing Knife Sharpening
09 376 3289 / www.onestepahead.co.nz 287 Ponsonby Road / Three Lamps (next to Salta Café) / e: onestepahead@xtra.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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FASHION + STYLE
SUPER SEXY REFINEMENT This season’s Moontide collection is both refined and super sexy as embodied in the new sizzling campaign featuring Charlie Robertson and captured by esteemed photographer Simon Upton. Simon’s natural affinity with the ocean has married perfectly with this exciting and alluring collection from Moontide. This season’s Moontide collection brings the usual timeless elegance with graphic, simple and bold inspired Silhouette with vibrant hues contrasted with striking monochrome florals. The Moontide classic Contours offers simplicity at the core with our best-selling collection for some years. Manhattan brings sleek shapes and a nod to the sporty with unfussy, clean lines and Beach Luxe ups the sports theme with glamorous and sexy lines, cleverly combining stripes, solids and textures. We take a walk on the Wild Side with large-scale animal prints that offer drama and an expressive dynamic. Psycho Tropical blooms with an edgy yet feminine take on the perennial floral that’s both flattering and extremely easy to wear. We can’t take to the sea without a classic offer of stripes and this year is no different. A Moontide favourite, Nautical Stripes brings a feeling of luxury to the seaside with gorgeous, yarn-dyed, textured fabrics. Jaquard Stripes, another perennial favourite of Moontide, offers the same timeless classic style and textural sophistication that continues to be a best seller. It wouldn’t be summer without the bohemian spirit and two free-spirited stories bring the gypsy vibe to the collection this year: Pop Indigo brings a soft, carefree feel with cutting edge tie dyes and contrasting shapes and sophisticated structures. Samburu offers timeless bohemian spirit with hues of coral, teal and gold splicing through gypsy knits and tie details that are just crying out for the beach this summer.
Pop in, say hi to the girls at the beautiful new Grey Lynn flagship store and receive a personal fitting. PONSONBY NEWS READERS ALSO RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT.
MOONTIDE, 24 Williamson Avenue T: 09 218 8780, www.moontide.com
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NEW STORE NOW OPEN 24 WILLIAMSON AVENUE GREY LYNN PH: 09 218 8780 MOONTIDE.COM
FASHION + STYLE
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@ MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING 1. Zephyr Stevie Top + Delilah Pant in Mango 2. Zephyr Harper Dress Charcoal 3. Zephyr Annie Dress - Tan and White 4. Brave + True Reflection Top in Cinnamon 5. Maud Dainty Herald Dress
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MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING, 937 Mt Eden Road, T: 09 630 5354, Magazine Milford, 119A Kitchener Road, Milford, T: 09 488 0406, www.magazineclothing.co.nz
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FASHION + STYLE
VIRTUESWIM
Owner Rachel Virtue takes the anxiety out of swimwear shopping, with her gentle nature, extensive knowledge and true passion for helping her customers find that perfect piece. Customers leave feeling confident and swimwear ready. Virtueswim stocks designer brands such as Sea Level, Jets, Peony, Bond-eye, Vitamin A and now Seafolly swimwear. The Sea Level brand ranges from size 8 - 18 and the other brands from size 6 - 16. Rachel offers free swimwear consultations in store where she will help you choose the perfect fit swimwear for your body. You can book this consultation online or instore.
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Jets Desert Bloom
Virtueswim’s mission is to provide a personalised service in store for females to feel confident and uplifted when they wear their swimwear on holiday or on a beach. A spray tanning service is offered instore, using top end, organic spray tanning solutions that are cruelty free. You can choose from an array of processing times to suit your busy schedule. The service offers fabulous home care products so you can maintain and keep your tan lasting longer. Rachel is an expert in spray tanning with 18 years’ experience. You can book your spray tan online, it’s super easy. Virtueswim – the perfect store to visit any time of year, you can top up your tan, find your perfect swimsuit and grab any last minute accessories that you may need... sunglasses, hats, kaftans, sarongs, towels, beach bags and organic sunscreen. Looking for the perfect stocking filler this Christmas? Why not a Virtueswim Gift Voucher that’s sure to make any woman happy.
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1. Sea Level - Essentials Black Frill One Piece 2. Bond-eye - Def Leppard One Piece
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3. Bond-eye - The Maya 4. Sea Level - Riviera Rib Bikini
VIRTUESWIM, Shop 8, 283 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 281 4676, Facebook: virtueswim, Instagram: virtueswim, www.virtueswim.co.nz
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FASHION + STYLE
@ ZEBRANO Be ahead of the game with new styles from Chocolat and Obi that will set you up for 2020. Designed by Jon Dybal (Obi) and Kylie Niovara-Dave (Chocolat), both labels are crafted in New Zealand to exacting standards and a fit you know you can rely on.
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1. Chocolat Check Me Out Eden Dress – $397; 2. Chocolat Matisse Fortune Dress – $377; 3. Chocolat Polka Dotty Luxe Dress – $397; 4. Obi Blue Leaf Reversible Dress – $327; 5. Obi Peppy Wrap Dress – $299; 6. Obi Vacation Oversized Sweater $293, Obi Peppy Pleat Pant – $279 ZEBRANO, 10 Kingdon Street, Newmarket, T: 09 523 2500, www.zebrano.co.nz
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FASHION + STYLE
SUNGLASSES SEASON – THE HEALTHIEST ACCESSORY Sunglasses might be considered a small accessory, but they can have a large impact. A great pair of sunglasses can change your face, your style and even your outlook on life. As well as being one of the best accessories, sunglasses play a key role in protecting the eyes from eye disease and signs of ageing around the eyes. While the eyes themselves can get sunburned, UV exposure is also linked to cancer in the eyes and on the eyelids, cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eyes (pterygium). Prevention is the best form of treatment. Local optometrist Adele Jefferies says, “There are so many options to get good UV protection for the eyes now. Many leading contact lenses have UV protection; glasses can have technology like ZEISS UVProtect; we can create very bespoke prescription sunglasses with the tints of your choice including custom colours, tints that change depending on the light, mirror coatings and, of course, polarisation. Then there’s just some stunning sunglasses now, including for children.” UV protection is important for little eyes too. According to the World Health Organisation up to 80% of a person’s lifetime exposure to UV is received before the age of 18. There are still some definite trends for sunglasses this season and while you can’t go wrong with classic styles from Longchamp, YSL and Vaurnet, cats eyes, aviators, glamorous, oversize shapes and a bit of colour can keep things fresh and modern. The European designers – Res Rei, Anne et Valentin and Caroline Abram – do colour very well. We’re also seeing more pastel tones and translucent lenses from Chloe. AGE and Kate Sylvester really bring local design front and centre with some very unique pieces. And depending on your needs, most sunglasses can be made into prescription styles. The most important thing is that they’re comfortable, fit you well and suit your style... remember, Yves Saint Laurent was right “fashion fades, style is eternal.” So, whether you’re heading to the beach, the races or the tennis this summer and want to know how well your current glasses or sunglasses are protecting you, or just want a new look – the expert team at Harrison & Matthews is here to help. See better. Look better. Feel better. F PN
Find your perfect sunglasses
HARRISON & MATTHEWS OPTOMETRIST, 1 Jervois Road, T: 09-376 2565, E: Ponsonby@matthews.co.nz, www.matthews.co.nz
1 Jervois Road Ponsonby, Auckland
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OUT & ABOUT
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Soho Wines’ 10th birthday @ 145 K’Road — Saturday 9 November 1. Emma Muller, Mary Wenham, Louise Fitzgibbon & Peggy Carter; 2. The team at Dear Jervois, Herne Bay; 3. Eel Mudu, Cath King, Rach Carter & Kate McKay; 4. Top Row: Eel Mudu, Aline Fonseca, Rach Carter, Jo Cumberland & Shenée McLean, Bottom Row: Jess Faithfull & Amber Hatton; 5. Amber Hatton, Sam Kim (Winewriter) & Rach Carter; 6. Mermaid Mary (winewriter) & Kim Blair; 7. Piers Haszard, Vanessa Chant, Simon Faga-Makin, Becca McBride, Jack Faga-Makin & Lara Burns; 8. Amber Hatton & Jack Faga-Makin
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LIVING, THIKNING + BEING
Give the gift of body confidence this Christmas with a Barrefigure gift voucher Located just above Ripe on Richmond Road, this chic, boutique barre studio offers targeted body-sculpting classes that fuse principles of ballet barre, Pilates, yoga and strength conditioning. The 60-minute classes come in a variety of formats from beginners, signature, baby (where baby comes along) to cardio and stretch. Gift vouchers apply to all. Founder Marysa is passionate about providing just what her clients need, so get in touch to organise a truly special gift for your loved one or alternatively select from the options available to purchase online at barrefigure.co.nz
INSTAGRAM COMPETITION Find the Barrefigure post on @PononsonbyNews Instagram, tag a friend and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll put you in the draw to win two classes each. Winners announced Wednesday 8 January 2020
Prices start at just $28 for two classes (new client special) or simply make your gift voucher up to any dollar value you choose. F PN
BARREFIGURE, 166 Richmond Road, T: 09 361 2083, www.barrefigure.co.nz
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New Clients: 2-for-1 classes for $28 + Intro 30 Days Unlimited for $150 166 Richmond Rd, Ponsonby. 09 361 2083 www.barrefigure.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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John Appleton: VITAMIN ‘G’ – not a nutrient but it works the same way Everyone likes a ‘freebie’ and, when it comes to our health, if we had constant free access to something that had the potential to make a significant difference to the way we feel and our overall wellbeing, most of us would be pretty happy. Well there is something out there and it’s causing a stir around the world. The talk is about something that is being referred to as vitamin G. It’s not a vitamin that we obtain from our food or supplements, but it works in much the same way. The G stands for ‘Grounding’ or ‘Earthing’ and obtaining vitamin G simply involves reconnecting the body with the energy that is naturally present in the ground we walk on. By so doing, we can tap into an unlimited supply of electrons. American cardiologist Dr Thomas Levy who is widely acclaimed for his research on vitamin C says, “without exception every process that requires or produces energy is dependent on electron movement or flow. In fact the health status for all living organisms is determined by overall electron flow – good electron flow = healthy, energetic, long life – poor electron flow = low energy and disease – no electron flow = death.” I first read about ‘Grounding/ Earthing’ early in 2010 when another American cardiologist Dr Stephen Sinatra devoted most of his monthly newsletter to it. His comment “The benefits of ‘Earthing’ are so profound that I believe it may be the greatest health discovery of our time” got me thinking that I should really look into this. The discovery started out with shoes in 1993 when Clint Ober a pioneer in Cable TV had noticed that almost everyone was wearing synthetic-soled shoes. He wondered if it might be a problem for people if they were insulated from the naturally occurring electrical charges in the Earth’s surface. The ‘snow’ (electromagnetic interference) that was common on TV screens prior to the introduction of Cable TV disappeared as a result of ‘Earthing’ the ‘Cable’. Clint’s curiosity led him to conduct an experiment on himself which involved using a conductive form of duct
tape which he laid on his bed in a grid form. He then ran a wire to the outside to an ‘Earthing’ rod buried in the ground. He lay down on the bed and the next thing he knew it was morning – the best night’s sleep he had experienced in years. Clint repeated the experiment with the same result and in addition he began to notice a significant decrease in pain that he had lived with for many years. I can recall my early years at primary school when we didn’t wear shoes and somehow we didn’t come down with the colds and illnesses that are now so prevalent. Today there is hardly a pair of feet not fitted out with fashionable brands of walking shoes and ‘trainers’. We have all lost contact with the Earth. At one time it was believed that the Earth is neutrally charged but it’s now known that it has a negative charge. This is very important for us because damaging free radicals that rob electrons from ‘us’ are positively charged. By simply reconnecting ourselves with the Earth, we have an opportunity to enhance electron flow and thus minimise the potential for free radical damage. We take antioxidants as supplements for exactly the same reason. Humans evolved like all animals without insulating barriers between the Earth and our feet. The soles of our feet are extremely sensitive due to a high concentration of nerve endings and because nerve tissue is electrically conductive, it’s not difficult to understand why it’s so easy for us to tap into the Earth’s limitless supply of electrons. Getting our daily vitamin G is very simple, totally safe and absolutely free. Take your shoes off and have a safe and happy Christmas and PN a healthy year in 2020. (JOHN APPLETON) F
APPLETON ASSOCIATES, T: 09 489 9362, appletonassoc@xtra.co.nz, www.johnappleton.co.nz
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Bay Audiology – bringing the joys of sound to Ponsonby Bay Audiology has been proud to be in the heart of Ponsonby since June 2019. Designed to reimagine the world of hearing and showcase the latest in hearing technology, the Ponsonby clinic goes beyond any other Bay Audiology location. Visitors can discover their own individual hearing profile through a self-guided touchscreen and headphone experience and browse a range of advanced hearing technology. Bay Audiology Ponsonby houses a range of headphones and earbuds that can customise their sound to a person’s unique hearing profile. The latest products from manufacturers such as Audeara, Jabra and Nura allow for a premium audio and calling experience through noisecancelling technology – making them ideal for travel and commuting. The team can also provide customised ear plugs to help protect your hearing and ear health. The clinic has New Zealand’s first 3D ear scanner to create custom-fit ear plugs to ensure every client receives a pair that is personalised to their needs and lifestyle. This new technology allows the team to safely map the ear canal of people who previously would not have been able to be helped as easily – such as those who have had an ear surgery.
Above: 3D Ear Scanning; Below: Nuheara IQ Boost wireless earbuds
The Ponsonby clinic has created an interactive way to encourage people to start thinking about their hearing health. Untreated hearing loss can affect your physical and mental wellbeing, including your health, behaviour and relationships, and has been linked to dementia. Discovering and treating hearing loss sooner rather than later can ultimately improve your overall health and wellbeing. For more information about Bay Audiology Ponsonby, visit us in PN Ponsonby to learn more about your hearing. F
BAY AUDIOLOGY, 77 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 801 4130, www.bayaudiology.co.nz/ponsonby
EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF SOUND AT BAY AUDIOLOGY PONSONBY Drop in or book a free self-guided hearing check and discover the latest in hearing technology. Visit us for Ponsonby Market Day on 7th December for special offers and giveaways! Open Tuesday - Friday 9.30am - 6.00pm, Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm, Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Book now 09 801 4130 | 77 Ponsonby Road Free hearing checks are available to people aged 18 and over.
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More than just hair Vanita Thomas is one of New Zealand’s most sought after and respected freelance artists, working as a hair dresser, makeup artist and stylist. Her career spans over more than 20 years and her credits include award-winning international films, television productions and leading fashion publications. Now Vanita has set up a boutique salon in Grey Lynn. Today, while still freelancing in those arenas, it is at V Hair and Makeup where she brings all this experience to her clients, including some big name New Zealand celebrities to whom she can offer a discreet and personalised service. When a space became available in a vintage 1930s store along Great North Road, Vanita could see it was ideal for the type of experience she wanted to offer her clients. Her services include hair cuts, styling and colouring for both men and women as well as makeup consultation and makeup for special occasions and events. Her knack for cutting and styling all types of hair means she’s always in demand, with curly hair being one of her specialties. Surviving breast cancer five years ago meant many lifestyle changes around what Vanita puts in and on her body. This has motivated her to offer her clients high-quality hair products that are free of harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulphate and ammonia. Vegan options are also available. The salon opens from Wednesday to Saturday or by appointment. “My clients enjoy the intimacy and privacy of the space, and always leave feeling a million dollars,” says Vanita. At V Hair and Makeup, experience, professionalism and artistry are guaranteed.
V Hair and Makeup Boutique Salon 169 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland, M: 021 419 493 Hours: Wednesday - Friday 10am - 6pm Saturday - 10am - 5pm Email: vhairandmakeupnz@gmail.com V Hair and Makeup vhairandmakeupnz
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Have yourself an eco little Christmas This season of celebration tends to be one of extravagance and indulgence, which is exciting! It can, however, easily slip from the realms of generosity to wastefulness. And while itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so important to celebrate joyfully and generously, there are ways to do this well without creating excessive amounts of waste. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity. Decorations For pretty lighting, solar powered fairy lights are a great alternative to standard battery operated ones. Beeswax or soy candles are much greener than petroleum-based paraffin candles. For a merry table, see what foliage you can forage from nature. Pine cones and pohutukawa flowers can be used to make tables feel joyful, and sprigs of native greenery and fronds of toetoe in a vase will give your space a festive New Zealand touch. Gifts Where you can, try to shop secondhand at op shops. There are some incredibly unique and valuable finds in these places. Alternatively, try to support local New Zealand brands. The carbon footprint of these brands is significantly smaller since their products are not being transported from overseas. If neither of these options suit, try to buy something practical. I will often check with people before I buy them a gift so as to avoid buying a present that will just end up in the bin. Most people prefer to have something they actually like than a surprise they may or may not like. Wrapping Recycled brown paper decorated with some red twine not only feels homely, it is very kind to the earth. Unfortunately, plasticised (shiny)
wrapping paper canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be recycled so it ends up in landfill. Try wrapping with beeswax wraps or coloured cloth from places like spotlight; both PN can both be re-used over and over. (ALANA BRUCE) F ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz
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Five reasons to nourish your body with nutrients Summer is officially here, bringing with it delicious summer dishes, outdoor adventures and social gatherings with family and friends. The days are longer, sunnier, the ocean is warmer, the fruit and veggies are bright and abundant – this really is a great time of year for our happiness and health. However, this beautiful time of year can also be a very busy one. Between summer parties, visits to see your family and lots of lovely barbecues – it can be hard to maintain your wellness routine. The good news? If there is just one thing you can do to nourish your mind, body and soul this summer, it’s simply adding in some nourishing nutrients to keep on top of your nutritional demands. Nutrients to promote a happier, healthier you Adding in nutrients will support your body at this time of year, making sure that while you might be dabbling in glasses of wine, or your mum’s pavlova, at least your body still has all the essential nutrients it needs to detoxify and function effectively. This will promote a happier, healthier you throughout the silly season. Why are essential nutrients so important? 1. Energy Ensure your energy levels are boosted to get the most out of your summer. Restore your body with optimal levels of nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin D, zinc, selenium and vitamin C to give your body an extra boost of energy. 2. A healthy metabolism Essential nutrients and omega 3 fatty acids are great for metabolic health. Magnesium and zinc are proven to be helpful in reversing insulin resistance and managing blood sugar control. 3. A healthy liver Our livers require adequate nutrient levels to process toxins out of the body. B vitamins support the clearing of toxins, particularly if you do indulge in a glass or two of red wine. 4. Hormonal balance Nutrients like zinc and selenium are required by the body to make our hormones in the first place and also work to help keep them balanced (over the day or the month). 5. Brain health Magnesium, zinc and omega 3 fatty acids play an incredibly important role in how we think and feel day to day.
Ben Warren, founder and clinical director of BePure Magnesium, the mother mineral, supports you in bringing more calm into your life by nurturing your brain’s ability to release stress hormones. While zinc is a key player in making neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine (better known as your happy hormones). Our brains are made up of 60% fat, so it makes sense to consume good fats – in particular, anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids – for optimal brain function, as well as supporting feelings of depression. Where can you find nutrients in nature? Most of us health-conscious types will already be getting some of our nutrients from the foods we eat – especially if we are prioritising the same nutrient-dense foods our ancestors would have eaten (tip – if it comes wrapped in plastic, it’s not natural). This means a diet high in plant foods. Leafy greens, fresh seasonal produce, soaking and sprouting grains, eating all parts of the animal – including and especially organ meat – and utilising high-quality natural fats as a core part of our diet. Here’s a list of go-tos: • Sustainably caught oily fish • Green leafy vegetables • Brazil nuts • Pumpkin seeds • Turmeric • Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi and coconut yoghurt • Organic chicken and red meat However, even if you’re eating a nutrient-rich wholefood diet, our modern lifestyles – especially around this time of year – still stop us from absorbing the range of essential nutrients our bodies need to function optimally. This is where high quality, nutritional supplements can be a great addition, to support restoring our bodies back to balance. (BEN WARREN, FOUNDER & CLINICAL DIRECTOR OF BEPURE) BEPURE, T: 0800 52 54 52, info@bepure.co.nz, www.bepure.co.nz
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Virtual Realities Illumen Clinical Psychologist Kathryn Harvey on Virtual Reality and how it’s changing the game in psychology. Exposure Therapy, the process of repeatedly exposing oneself to feared situations in a manner in which they have a degree of control, remains one of the most effective treatment methods for a range of psychological problems, particularly phobias and other types of anxiety that feature high amounts of avoidance. Nearly half a million New Zealander’s will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, which might include excessive worry, panic, obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, or specific fears and phobias. It is well established that exposure-based therapies are an effective treatment method for these conditions, particularly those where avoidance is a strong feature. The way exposure works is via ‘desensitisation’, where you gradually approach something you would normally avoid (eg, heights), in a gradual, step-wise way, so that you learn that in most reasonable situations, you’re safe. It’s usually done in one of two ways: either by imagery (eg, by just imagining being up the top of a tall building), or ‘real life’ exposure (actually taking the lift to the 100th floor). Enter the world of virtual reality (VR), potentially a game-changer for psychology, opening the door to endless opportunities for exposure therapy. VR offers a huge advantage here – VR is not real, so people are more likely to try things they wouldn’t normally do in ‘real life’. But our brain and body tends to react in the same way as if we were actually doing that thing we feared. We still don’t quite have the technology yet to offer a full VR experience in the therapy room, but with the emergence of a range of affordable and easily available headsets, virtual reality-type experiences are now being used more and more by psychologists to enhance existing therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). In our work
with clients who experience phobias, we’ve been using the Google Cardboard headset – literally a folded piece of cardboard you slide your smartphone into, and 360 degree videos, a viewing format which allows you to pan right around and view the environment as if you were actually there. Meet Kate* (not her real name). Kate suffers from an extreme fear of flying. “It’s been a massive hindrance in my life.” She says she’s avoided flying for the past three years. After working through the exposure process in sessions, Kate was then able to take the headset home and view the 360-degree video in her own time in the weeks leading up to her flight. Kate recently took a flight, the first in a long time. “The VR work helped ease my anticipation of flying. I was able to take it in my stride a little more.” I’m excited to see what happens with VR and how we can apply this technology in mental health, especially here in New Zealand. Research so far has focused mainly on anxiety disorders, with the results showing VR therapy to be an effective treatment method. VR therapies still need a trained therapist, but some say that future versions could be readily available as a self-help book. While I’m not thrilled about the possibility of dehumanising psychological therapy, it will be an interesting one to watch. The possibilities are unlimited and could transform mental health treatment. PN (KATHRYN HARVEY) F
*Full consent was given from Kate, not her real name, to have her experiences shared in this piece.
Clinical Psychologists, 412A Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn, Contact us P. 09 973 5187 m. 027 448 7288 e. info@illumen.nz www.illumen.nz
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Tadhg Stopford: Vitamin M – dietary essential, prescription only? Cannabis is full of secret, essential vitamins and essential oils. Regular readers of this column will know that most animals, including humans, make and need vitamins called ‘endocannabinoids’ to maintain normal function in body and mind. They are crucial signalling elements that ensure good health/normal function. Vitamins are defined as “substances needed for normal cell function, growth and development. A vitamin deficiency occurs when you do not get enough of a certain vitamin. Vitamin deficiency can cause health problems.” (MedLine Plus). A deficiency of cannabinoids (“a hypo-cannabinergic state” - Dr Danial Schecter, Director of Global Medical Services for Canopy Growth Corporation of Canada) can result in chronic migraine, sleep issues, IBS, Alzheimers and many other poor physiological conditions because our body’s own cannabinoids are essential for maintaining normal function. Let’s call them vitamin M. We are lucky hemp/cannabis is full of these vitamins, and lucky that raw hemp/cannabis can only keep you healthy and not get you high. But we are unlucky that this vegetable is a ‘prohibited plant’, and that our Government’s Medicinal Cannabis scheme promises to make “Cannabis-based dietary supplements and natural health products prescription only.” This is unscientific, unethical and anti competitive. It is bad for our farmers and bad for our citizens. The Emperor, be it MoH, Labour, NZF, National or Peter Dunne, has no clothes. But whoever is in charge wants us to believe that they
MAI DAY SPA Make summer special! GIFT VOUCHERS FROM $90 FOR HOT STONE / DEEP TISSUE / FACIAL MASSAGE / BODY SCRUB / RELAXATION COUPLES WELCOME 195 PONSONBY RD 09 376 3693
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are dressed in beautiful garments. Even as they seem prepared to swindle us again. Is the long con of cannabis rolling on? Catch-22: Can’t legally claim health benefits for hemp, but evidence says we should. Captain Cook saved his men from scurvy by giving them limes for vitamin C, but if you advertised limes or vitamin C in New Zealand to protect yourself from scurvy, you would be breaking the law. That’s because ‘therapeutic claims make medicines’. Similarly, if your product contains controlled/prescription drugs. Dietary supplements cannot contain ingredients scheduled as controlled drugs or prescription medicines. Even if they are essential vitamins for life and health. Where are our human rights to essential vitamins? Even in a country with a chronic health crisis. Even as we struggle with decades of infrastructure underinvestment. Even though Treasury says that our chronic health crisis suggests a ‘debt-based future’, vegetable-based vitamins that you can buy in European supermarkets must be prescription medicines here. Why? It makes no scientific sense. Who benefits? The status quo. Basta. Enough. (TADHG STOPFORD) F PN
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Pets are our family too Grief doesn’t only affect humans, our beloved pets also feel the loss. Pets form emotional bonds with their people and when someone suddenly disappears from their life, they notice the absence. You may see a dog searching for their owner, waiting by the door, at the foot of the bed or by a favourite chair. They have a keen insight when something in their world is ‘not right’. Of course, the way that sadness is expressed, and the extent of its impact, will depend upon the animal in question and how close the relationship was.
Family dogs at home will often greet the casket upon arrival and barely leave its side if there’s a strong connection to their human. The power of smell is very strong in a dog and is a primary way in which he understands his world. Items such as worn t-shirts, old slippers and other items that hold scent can become treasured objects to a dog and may offer comfort following the loss of their special companion.
You are more than welcome, in fact we encourage you, to bring your family dog into Sibuns, especially if you are coming to view your loved one. We have witnessed the healing (and totally underestimated) experience this can be for your furry family member.
Your dog is more than welcome to attend the funeral if it’s here at Sibuns. If the service isn’t at Sibuns, a lot of churches and other venues are dog friendly, so please talk to us if this is something you would like to do and we can ensure that your furry friend is accommodated.
Let them sit beside the casket, or in the casket (this might depend on size) and they will often lick their face, tails wagging madly, then settle down on them with what seems to be a sense of new understanding.
Spencer our resident Westie even attends our Christmas Memorial Service, sitting on a chair amongst the guests. F PN
SIBUNS FUNERAL DIRECTORS & ADVISORS, 582 Remuera Road, Remuera, T: 09 520 3119, www.sibuns.co.nz
582 Remuera Rd, Remuera Auckland 09 520 3119 | staff@sibuns.co.nz www.sibuns.co.nz
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WELCOME TO LOOK LAB Auckland’s latest urban medispa offering the most innovative therapies imported directly from Europe. Owned by Linda Codegoni and Marc Ellis, Look Lab specialises in unique and highly efficacious treatments using pHformula Skin Resurfacing, LPG Endermologie and HydraFacial.
These medispa treatments are tailored and prescribed to each individual client, resulting in rapid, personalised results. Linda Codegoni, who trained as a beauty therapist and Ayurvedic therapist in her native home of Italy, has spent the last 12 months developing and perfecting Look Lab and its menu of medispa treatments. She is joined by a team that includes a fantastic massage therapist and appearance medicine specialist. When asked to describe Look Lab, Linda says, “Our medispa is a place for an enhanced approach to beauty, where advanced therapies and technologies work in synergy.” One of these advanced therapies is pHformula Skin Resurfacing, the world’s first pharma-cosmeceutical range which represents the next level of skincare and anti-ageing. pHformula provides tailored skin solutions based off controlled chemical resurfacing and targeted delivery, to accelerate healthy cell regeneration while preserving the integrity of the skin’s dermis. This differs to traditional skin peels as pHformula uses pharmaceutical-grade actives, coupled with a unique bioavailability delivery complex that ensures maximum controlled
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LIVING, THIKNING + BEING Linda Codegoni performing a Hydra Facial
delivery of all actives. As a result, a client can expect no down time or negative side effects as can be seen with conventional peels that are missing this controlled resurfacing function formulated by pHformula. Whether suffering from sensitivity, premature ageing or pigmentation (or all of the above), pHformulaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treatments and homecare have the capability to be tailored to treat multiple skin conditions at once. All treatments and formula used in pHformula are supported by more than 30 years of combined scientific and medical experience.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? Join Linda and the pHformula educator for an informational evening on Wednesday 11 December from 5pm onwards and receive your FREE skin scan reading and pHformula sample pack (valued at $70). RSVPs are a must. WHAT - Look Lab and pHformula informational evening WHERE - Look Lab Medispa LOCATION - 2 Kingsley Street, Westmere RSVP - email Linda on linda@looklab.co.nz www.looklab.co.nz
LOOK LAB, 2 Kingsley Street, Westmere, T: 09 3601201, Facebook & Instagram: @looklabnz, www.looklab.co.nz
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New club in town Playground is New Zealand’s first night club experience-based fitness studio. At Playground, stimulation is provided through the heart-ratefocused programming, the lighting, music and the motivating trainers. This experience will leave gym goers feeling sweaty, energised, and wanting more. From the moment people walk through the doors, it is all about the experience, evoking feelings of performing at their personal best along with being part of a community of like-minded people. The instructors provide motivation, encouragement, support, technique, tips and the odd cheeky high five, which provides inspiration for people to deliver to their level whilst achieving training specific to their personal goals. After the workout, give something back to the body by refuelling at The Lab, the in-house cafe and smoothie bar. Try a chia cup, a green smoothie, a probiotic soda, an Allpress coffee or a little, natural treat from their menu. Be surrounded by energetic people in a social atmosphere. Become involved in the rapidly growing Playground Fitness family, dare to dream and experience everything on offer. Not only will the exercises challenge but they will elevate the heart rate, people will feel the burn – a total body and mind workout. The classes are varied and offer different types of workouts including weight focused using resistance and cardio techniques to improve endurance and strength. For an alternative workout, try one of the Pilates classes or a boxing session. Experience Auckland’s newest, professionally designed, purpose built, tastefully decorated and well-equipped, boutique fitness studio. Join in by downloading the app ‘playground fitness nz’ and book a free class to get started.
Come sweat with us! 143 Newton Road, Auckland Level 1 the Orange Building - right next to the Coronation Hall
OPEN: Monday to Friday from 5am - 7pm – Weekends from 7am - 10am
YYY RNC[ITQWPFƂVPGUU EQ P\ GOCKN JGNNQ"RNC[ITQWPFƂVPGUU EQ P\ Some complimentary parking is available on St Benedict Street.
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Top marks in the dance world It has been another busy year for Ponsonby School of Dance with ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and musical theatre students fully immersed in their chosen form of dance, with many dancers participating in all genres of dance. The school continues to go from strength to strength and is delighted with the progress that its students are making, both at the school and in the wider dance world. Once again, Ponsonby School of Dance had outstanding exam results with a number of students receiving top marks in Australasia in their chosen dance form. We are very proud of Ella Tobin who has been accepted into Dance Force Australia to further her dance training. In April this year we took a group of 10 dancers to New York to experience dancing at Broadway Dance Schools. The girls had a truly amazing time dancing alongside professional dancers and tutors, sightseeing, shopping and of course watching some amazing shows. It truly was a trip of a lifetime. All students are preparing for our annual end of year production on Saturday 30 November – a wonderful display of dance from our very talented dancers. Ponsonby School of Dance looks forward to another exciting year of dance in 2020. Please contact psodtracey@gmail.com or check the website for its 2020 timetable. PONSONBY SCHOOL OF DANCE, 28 Hargreaves Street (just off College Hill), M: 027 533 8427, www.ponsonbyschoolofdance.co.nz
PLAYGROUND INSTALLED AT ST MARY’S COLLEGE During the October school holidays, St Mary’s College became the proud owner of a new playground which is for the benefit of the junior girls. The playground was installed by Playco and will help ease the transition into the college environment for some of the students. Several of the girls come to us directly from primary school, and their new surroundings can often be overwhelming.
CLASSES FOR ALL AGES FROM PRE-SCHOOL TO ADULTS
We wish to thank the following wonderful people and groups in our community who supported this amazing project: St Mary’s College PTFA, Albany PAK’nSAVE, Aaron Glass, Four Winds Foundation, The Lion Foundation, One Foundation and NZ Community Trust. ST MARY’S COLLEGE, 11 New Street, Ponsonby, T: 09 376 6568, www.stmaryak.school.nz
Royal Academy of Dance Ballet JazzAddict Urban Ignition Hip Hop Musical Theatre Contemporary
28 Hargreaves Street, Ponsonby, M: 027 533 8427 www.ponsonbyschoolofdance.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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Meet the Teacher Annette Middleton Martin teaches at Bayfield Primary School and is a Within-School-Teacher, collaborating with other schools within our local community of learning – Te K-a hui Ako o Waitemat-a. You have taught at Bayfield for a while now. Has the school changed since you first started there? Oh my goodness, yes! The old school always had large learning spaces but now we have brand new facilities and two state-of-the-art playgrounds, with shade cloths everywhere. In the last year, we have covered two asphalt playgrounds with astroturf which is better for ball sports and certainly looks smart. I think only our magnificent trees, forest play area and our base building have remained the same. Part of your role at school is to promote the visual arts. What is the most unusual student art activity you have experimented with? I have collaborated with many artists-in-residence over the years to produce the outdoor murals that grace our school walls. The most unusual of these was a multicultural art unit where the children came up with a patterned symbol that represented their culture. And you have a reputation as an eco-warrior. How do you share that passion with your students and empower them to make a difference? Bayfield has an enthusiastic group of senior students who become the eco-warriors for two years and then go on to share their passion at secondary school. We are keen gardeners and we are very proud of our vegetable gardens and the eco-warriors care for this area of the school with such pride. I help them run initiatives like hosting speakers for assembly, organising trips, helping them run workshops on sorting our rubbish, and finding fun ways to encourage children to bring litter-free lunch boxes. Over your two years as a Within-School-Teacher, what has been the most exciting aspect of the K-ahui Ako collaboration? I have loved getting to know other teachers from all levels of the school journey, and being part of a group committed to making changes for the better – for all our young people. As a result of the Kahui Ako collaboration, our local schools are developing a shared learning language and methodology that is centered around enhancing interest, engagement and student agency. And it has been fun checking out all the new, inspiring school buildings in our neighbourhood. The architects have been busy in our community!
Do you get a chance to visit any of the Herne Bay/ Ponsonby cafes? When I manage to get away from school before the cafes shut – my favourite cafe is Governor. Steve, the owner, lives on my street – I like the idea of community. He also has a poem by Allen Curnow framed on his cafe wall and I never get sick of reading it. It sounds like you have a pretty busy time at work, what do you do in your own time to relax and unwind? Living in Westmere, I am so lucky to have the beaches, parks and cultural happenings of the city on my doorstep. I love to ski, sail, and tramp around the wild areas of our beautiful country. At home, I love to entertain and cook for my family and friends, garden, read and play with my cat, Arno. And you had an interesting holiday earlier this year. Yes – I was lucky enough to holiday in Bali during the Easter break. It was truly wonderful to experience such a connected culture that is centered on gratitude and contribution. I did yoga every day and my husband surfed. Bliss! F PN
Celebrating a young writer Local 12-year-old Lucy Kennedy was one of the Toitoi young writers and artists at the recent Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop’s Book Feast Children’s Book Festival on this year’s NZ Bookshop Day. On this annual celebration of the great local New Zealand bookstores, Lucy was asked to read out her recently published story ‘The Prizegiving’. Toitoi celebrates the ideas, imaginations and creative spirit of young writers and artists. They publish material with original and authentic voice that reflects the cultures and experiences of life in New Zealand. Lucy’s story can be found in issue 16 of Toitoi. F PN www.toitoi.nz www.dorothybutler.co.nz
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L to R: Dorothy Butler’s Mary Wadsworth, Lucy Kennedy & Toi Toi Editor Charlotte Gibbs PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
FUTURE GENERATION Top row: Paterinya Diswat, Maria Lovemai, Surbhi Kumar, Simranjeet Kaur, Harleen Rangi Singh, Isabella Van Stipriaan-Huik, Raiha Hill-Tupou; Middle row: Nellina Vaovasa, Kaisarina Vavae, Henrietta Misiluti; Bottom row: Lily Barraclough, Hela Hartdegen, Drusire Haurua
Auckland Girls’ Grammar School’s scholarships Thirty local girls will leave school and head into 2020 with the best possible start to the rest of their lives. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, nestled in the heart of Ponsonby, has achieved a remarkable 30 scholarships for its departing students – its best result ever. And the list is a prestigious one, including three University of Auckland Top Achiever scholarships, worth $20,000, and four Pacific Academic Excellence scholarships, also $20,000. The scholarships range far and wide – medicine and law to construction, and everything in between. The total scholarship money won by the school is $352,500, a record for AGGS. “For the size of school it’s extraordinary,” says Student Services Director Maggie Hames. “I really get very excited because I know what it will mean for the students. It is life changing. “If they’re tracking to go into competitive courses and they can do so without financial concerns, and not having to work long hours in a part-time job, it can make all the difference.” Principal Ngaire Ashmore agrees, especially considering the school’s roll is just 1000 students. To give that perspective, it means 15% of AGGS’ regular students leave school this year with a scholarship or an award. “We punch way above our weight,” Ashmore says. “People don’t know, so we want to shout it from the rooftops. We want to share and celebrate because we are an exceptionally highachieving school. The scholarships are the pinnacle of that and the fact that we only have 1000 girls – you’re much more likely to access, apply for and be successful at a school with our numbers.” The scholarship winners will disburse all around the country – Auckland, Otago and Waikato universities, and into the trades nationwide. Says Ashmore: “It means the world to us. It’s recognition of the hard work and high calibre of teaching plus our families – whanau – who are choosing and investing and sacrificing to send their girls to Auckland Girls’ Grammar. It’s something we’re so proud of.”
And Nellina Vaovasa (AUT Communications) has won the $25,000 Sir George Elliot scholarship. “We haven’t had one of these since 2006. They only give three a year and it’s a very prestigious scholarship,” explains Hames. “Of all of them, it’s quite remarkable because it’s so competitive. It was a long process and, to finish, Nellina had to interview at a law firm in front of a panel of five which is very daunting. So we’re really proud of her.” At the other end of the financial scale is a scholarship winner Hames is personally especially proud of: Cecilia Paul, who also won an apprenticeship, gained the new (August 2019) Prime Minister’s Vocational Award, worth $2000, and the $500 Old Girls Trust Trade Scholarship. “Cecilia identified in year 11 that she had an interest in the building and construction industry and she has worked so hard. She now has an apprenticeship which starts early next year – it’s fantastic,” Hames beams. “Every holidays she gave up her two-week break to work (for a construction company) and now she’s won this scholarship. And do you know what she’s going to do with her money? She’s going to buy her tools. We’d bought her some basic tools but now she can get toplevel ones. It really will change things for her.” Principal Ashmore concurs and is full of praise for the work Maggie and the rest of the AGGS teaching staff put into the scholarship drive. “It’s definitely recognition for all the work that goes in by all our teachers. And we are so lucky to have Maggie because she has exceptional institutional knowledge of the tertiary sector and sees the enormous potential of our girls. Sometimes they don’t believe it and just need someone to support and nurture them.”
Maggie Hames is immensely proud of all the scholarships achieved, but there are some which particularly stand out for her.
Adds Maggie: “It’s my highest priority. And it’s just so rewarding. We have these girls here for five years. But this (winning a scholarship) is with them forever – and it does make a huge difference. They are life changing because they not only get the scholarship but they also get the support.
Simranjeet Kaur heads to Otago to study medicine on an Academic Excellence scholarship worth $35,000 – with few schools around the country attaining such a coveted scholarship win.
“And many of them come back here to school when they’ve made their way in the world and talk to the current students, so it’s twofold. PN It’s very nurturing.” F
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A: First, I think it is always a good idea to consider how important this document is to you. If you were spending $20K on a car would you get a mechanical check before you purchased it? By comparison, what is the risk to the assets that you have if you get the agreement wrong? What is the value of those assets? What is a reasonable cost to pay to have peace of mind that the agreement has been drafted correctly? Relationship Property Law is reasonably complex. You need to understand how the legislation works, as it is the background to your agreement. Your agreement will be ‘contracting out’ of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (‘the Act’ which is why they are often referred to as ‘Contracting Out Agreements’. On several occasions I have seen draft agreements from couples where they have made assumptions about what the position is under the law without an agreement. Key mistakes that they make are when the Act applies to them. The Act provides it is after you have been in a de facto relationship for three years (not two as people often seem to think) but there are circumstances when a shorter duration may be effective. There is also considerable confusion about when a de facto relationship has started. The other key oversimplification of the Act is that people assume that the Act provides for equal sharing of everything. In fact only ‘relationship property’ is shared and there are a number of circumstances in which an unequal division of relationship property may be made. Pre-nup is a term mainly from popular culture. In New Zealand the agreement does not have to be signed before you get married (nuptials), you can sign an agreement at any time. The key difference that being married makes is that a surviving spouse immediately has rights under the Act against the estate of their spouse whereas a de facto only has this right after the relationship has lasted for three years.
Your FIRST
Lastly, for a Contracting Out Agreement to be effective, each party needs to receive independent legal advice on the agreement and the solicitor giving the advice needs to sign a certificate to confirm they have given that independent advice. If the agreement is a mess, then it is likely that the solicitor could refuse to sign the agreement or spend time in fixing up the agreement. I find that it usually takes more time to fix a badly drafted agreement than it does to draft a good one from scratch. Best of luck and please let me know if you want any help. PN (MICHAEL HEMPHILL) F www.metrolaw.co.nz
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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS
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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS
Logan Granger: Getting your customer to pay and pay on time One of the biggest issues facing all business owners today is cash flow; that is, getting paid by your customers and being able to pay creditors. If you can collect all of your debts you are in a better position to pay your own debts. If you have supplied goods or services to your customers it is a reasonable expectation to be paid in a prompt manner. Here are some tips to help you collect your payments due in a timely manner. 1. Offering credit accounts: When offering credit you need to consider your customers’ past payment history, along with the average spend to determine whether they actually do need credit or a cash account will suffice. 2. Terms and conditions: These are important. Make sure you document clearly your terms and conditions of trade in any contract or invoice you are entering into with a client. If a debt goes bad it will be harder to seek legal avenues if the customers’ obligations are not clearly set out. 3. Prompt payment incentives: Offer prompt payment discounts – this is a very effective way to get your invoices paid on time. You can try offering a discount of 2-5% if the invoice is paid within 10 days. 4. Payment options: Providing alternative payment options to customers can help speed up the payment process. There are a lot of payment options other than cash or cheque. Some customers like to pay using online banking, others prefer credit card payments. Making the payment process easier for your customer will make it easier for you to receive payment. 5. Customer communication: Make sure your customers have received their invoices and there are no problems. Contact the client before the invoice is due and again after if payment hasn’t been received. Explore options
with the client to receive payment rather than it becoming a bad debt. If the customer cannot pay, get them to commit to a date and amount for when the payment will come. When you are specific about details, they are far more likely to pay you. Keep detailed records of all communications with the customer. This will assist you on following up on the commitments received from the customer. 6. Keep your debtors records up to date: There is nothing worse or more embarrassing than chasing a debt that has already been paid by the customer. 7. Provide good customer service: Always service the client promptly and efficiently, late or non-payment can be a signal of poor service or a lack of communication with the customer. If there is a potential issue, try to identify and rectify the issue. This is an easy way to avoid the same issue in the future, keep your customers happy and ultimately receive the payment. By working with your customers you can help make the payment process smoother and an easier experience for both parties involved, which will help achieve your ultimate goal of being paid and paid on time. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me. (LOGAN GRANGER) F PN Disclaimer – While all care has been take, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the content of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.
JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, 202 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 6701, www.jacal.co.nz
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PONSONBY PETS
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PONSONBY PETS The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
A LIFETIME IN REAL ESTATE Repeka Lelaulu started working in real estate in 1992 at Empire Realty in Greenwoods Corner, Epsom. Since then she has listed and sold real estate all over Auckland from Pukekohe to Warkworth to the value of hundreds of millions of dollars. Her clients have included first home buyers, investors, developers and families. We sat down with Repeka in the Grey Lynn Barfoot & Thomson office and asked her this question: “Apart from the cost of property, what are three of the main differences you have observed in real estate over the past 28 years?” The first one that comes to mind is the mortgage interest rate property buyers are paying. When I first started selling homes, interest rates were around 21%! These days, my buyers are borrowing funds at under 3.5%. Though prices have significantly increased, the cost of borrowing is a fraction of what it was. I have noticed that the range of people who are purchasing has widened. Once upon a time, only a very select few were buying property. These days, it seems there is a much wider diversity of people in the market to buy, which is nice to see. The real estate profession is just that – a lot more professional than it used to be. Although we have better tools for marketing and selling, buyers and vendors want immediate action these days and can contact an agent (via email or text) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
In a world of ‘instant, immediate and 24/7 contact’, clients expect agents to be responsive, aware and willing and able to act quickly on their behalf. Despite the advances in technology, the purchase of property is a very personal and often emotional thing. Face to face communication is as important (and in many ways, more important) than it has ever been. Even last weekend I was negotiating with one of our top salespeople from our Barfoots Greenlane office who has been in the industry for around eight years. She had never before written up a contract on the bonnet of a vehicle, yet there we were, in 2019 doing just that – with the buyer in the car and the owners in the house! Now, perhaps more than ever, people need the personal touch. Above: Repeka Lelalulu & Barfoot and Thompson CEO Chris Dobbie REPEKA LELAULU, M: 0274 990 855, E: r.lelaulu@barfoot.co.nz
FANG AND FUR 1. Leaf Cat Diamond - $50.90 We all know how cats feel about boxes, but you may not want one sitting in your living space! Enter the Leaf Cat Diamond - a cat house that offers you tropical style and your cat some much needed kitty privacy. 2. Christmas Cats Card - $7.90 Let these cheeky kitties get you in the Christmas spirit! Matching gift wrap and tags also available. 3. Fierce: The History of Leopard Print - $49.90 This lush compendium reveals how this sexy, playful, and decadent pattern became a fashion staple, and celebrates the women who have dared to wear it throughout the ages. FANG AND FUR, If you’d like your kitty to get their paws on the best cat products around, check out www.fangandfur.co.nz
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& s a m t s i r h C y A very Merr . . . r a e Y w e N a great
To all my vendors and buyers thank you for all your support Repeka Lelaulu Residential Sales â&#x20AC;&#x153;Celebrating 28 years in Real Estateâ&#x20AC;? #7 in Auckland Central 027 499 0855, email: r.lelaulu@barfoot.co.nz Barfoot & Thompson, Grey Lynn
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Expansive Herne Bay living â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 40 Curran Street, Herne Bay Rarely does owning a home of such a high calibre, while offering a complete lifestyle of luxury, become possible. Tucked away on the northern slopes of Herne Bay lies this stunning family home. Through private gates you are greeted by a grand, 1920s character residence. French shutters and detailed pillars provide classic ambiance of the past. Polished wooden floors and modern fittings complement the stylish and elegant open-plan kitchen and dining, while a generous island counter top provides the perfect place to entertain family and friends, with sliding doors that open up to a secluded courtyard. An additional living area and office on the ground floor delivers an abundance of space and seamless family living, all able to be closed off or opened up, giving you plenty of options. Heading up the stairs youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find four generous bedrooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the master including a walk-in wardrobe, ensuite and balcony. The outdoor living is tranquil and private, with the boundary lined with a range of trees, while still allowing the sun to shine over the patio and pool area. Landscaped gardens allow you to relax and enjoy the fabulous living this well-maintained home provides. In such a sought after location and with some of the best boutique shops and restaurants nearby on Jervois Road and Ponsonby Road, what more could you need? (CHRIS BATCHELOR) F PN For more information call 0800 1 AGENT or chris.batchelor@bayleys.co.nz, www.bayleys.co.nz/1671175
RESIDENTIAL SALES
I am unapologetically competitive, unreservedly down-to-earth and I love my job. What drives me is people and with my honest, energetic and positive approach, I will do everything possible for your next move. Give me a call today. I am locally made and in your neighbourhood.
ERIN SANDOR 021 644 483
120 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
Best International Real Estate Agency 2018-2019 $GUV 4GCN 'UVCVG #IGPE[ /CTMGVKPI #UKC 2CEKĆ&#x201A;E $GUV #IGPE[ QXGT QHĆ&#x201A;EGU #UKC 2CEKĆ&#x201A;E
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING Enjoy the relaxation of resort-style living right here in your backyard. At Republic Home, our outdoor pieces are constructed from high-grade teak, aluminium or iron frames with 100% polyester rope – the same kind that is used by the world's best mountain climbers! You can’t beat that when it comes to a combo of style and durability.
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Whether your outdoor space is small or even bigger than your home itself, we’ve got a variety of pieces to help add a touch of resort luxury to your everyday outdoor settings. 1. Lisa Lounge Chair 2. Mischa Sofa 3. Sarah Dining Chair 4. lpanema 3 Seat Sofa Module 5. Tribal Side Table 6. Naki Dining Table
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GREY LYNN 2/8 Westmoreland Street
GREY LYNN 101 Rose Road 5
FIRST PRIZE - BEST DO-UP
1.5
430m²
LET THERE BE LIGHT
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Are you looking for a challenge? We have massive potential here with
A top secret hideaway in central Grey Lynn, this architecturally-designed
this unique property to add tremendous value. You could very quickly
delight has all you could wish for, especially if you are seeking an
and easily turn this “grand old lady” into a masterpiece, just like the
affordable funky pad. Wrap-around deck is prepped for summertime
amazing adjoining neighbours have done on either side. We all know that
entertaining. Bask in the garden surrounds, listen to the resident Tui and
RSSRUWXQLWLHV OLNH WKLV DUH H[WUHPHO\ UDUH DQG KDUG WR ߔQG VR EULQJ \RXU
enjoy the all-day sun. Section is fully fenced to keep your loved ones safe.
architect and builders and you can “live the dream”.
Built in 1987, this quiet cul-de-sac address has good bones.
MT EDEN 18A Hillside Crescent South
SANDRINGHAM 15 Calgary Street
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
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2 HOUSES ON 1 TITLE
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The next step has to be heaven with this generous (328m2), Tuscan
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inspired, modern masonry 3 level home. Enjoying more than 200 degrees
houses on one 825m2 freehold (fee simple) title, ripe for subdivision where
of amazing views overlooking the upper harbour and out to the Waitakeres. a generous capital gain must be assured. The front house was the original With the preferred North West facing aspect you can capture the last of
1930’s, 4 bdrm character bungalow. The 2 level, 4 bdrm, 2 bathroom
the sunsets. It’s easy to believe that you are living on cloud 9 here as it is
modern timber weatherboard townhouse, enjoys double internal garaging.
probably one of the highest positioned homes in Auckland.
Each property has a separate power and water meter too!
CONTACT: LJ Hooker Ponsonby
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Steven Glucina 021 888 455 Dee McDade 021 448 832
53 Ponsonby Road
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09 376 7530
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ponsonby@ljh.co.nz
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Ponsonby Estate Agents Limited
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Licensed REAA 2008
MY ASTUTE, AGILE APPROACH IS BASED ON YEARS OF INTEGRITY AND TRUST... A HIGHLY SKILLED, NEGOTIATOR WORKING FOR YOU THE VENDOR... A RELAXED CONFIDENTIAL CHAT OVER A COFFEE IS ALWAYS A GREAT STARTING POINT... JASON TROWBRIDGE 021 358 888 Jtrowbridge.ponsonby@ljh.co.nz
LJ Hooker Ponsonby
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53 Ponsonby Road
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09 376 7530
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ponsonby@ljh.co.nz
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Ponsonby Estate Agents Limited
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Licensed REA 2008
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
@ APARTMENTO 2
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1. Sika Luis bench 2. Frank dining table 3. Miro cabinet 4. Casa cabinet
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5. Sika Monet black chair 6. Oona sideboard APARTMENTO, 8 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 9963, www.apartmento.co.nz
8 Ponsonby Road 09 376 9963 1 5 % O F F A L L N E W O R D E R S F O R N E W Y E A R D E L I V E R Y ! A PA RT M E N TO . C O . N Z
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
1. Siglo snake skin cigar case 2s in white 2. Siglo bean shape metallic lighter in red 3. Siglo Retro II lighter in metallic blue 4. Siglo Opulent ashtray with gold 5. Siglo CC cutter in gold with silver 1
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HAVANA HOUSE, 59-67 High Street, Auckland Central, T: 09 357 0037, www.havanahouse.co.nz
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59-67 High Street, Auckland Central
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Sunday mornings at the Grey Lynn Community Centre 510 Richmond Road The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
@ HAVANA HOUSE
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
@ ROSE & HEATHER 1. The Christopher Elliott four post bed - available in all sizes 2. The Tumblehome six drawer chest - $4680 3. Trenail Classic two door sideboard in Ancient Kauri - $5980 4. Bespoke Tumblehome bedside with drawer and shelf - made to size
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ROSE & HEATHER, 406 Great North Road, T: 09 376 2895, www.roseandheather.com
BUY WELL .. BUY ONCE
timber with a history.. f u r n i t u r e f o r a l i f e t i m e.
w w w. r o s e a n d h e a t h e r. c o. n z 406 Great North Rd | GreyLynn t: 09 3762895
126 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Enjoying outside living in comfort As the cooler weather gives way to warmer days, now is the time to invest in quality pieces of outdoor furniture. A stunning range of all-weather wicker and solid teak furniture, is the perfect option for elegant seating and dining that will last summer after summer. JI Home’s classic wicker-style furniture is created on a rustproof, powder-coated aluminium frame, using handwoven polyethylene weave to produce a classic natural ‘vintage’ finish with extreme durability. Complemented with outdoor cushions in a quickdry foam and solution dyed acrylic fabric creates the perfect pieces for outdoor seating.
Visit the incredible JI Home showroom and let the team help you select the outdoor setting that will be the centrepiece for summer celebrations for many years.
Solid teak tables are specially designed for outdoor conditions, ageing gracefully and looking fabulous for years to come, they are the perfect partner for wicker seating.
2. Artwood Marbella Outdoor Dining Chair RRP $1119
1. Artwood Cross Outdoor Dining Table RRP $3715
3. Artwood Santa Monica Outdoor Dining Chair RRP $965
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JI HOME, 36 Pollen Street, T: 09 930 6268, www.jihome.nz
FURNITURE DESIGN STORE Open: Mon-Fri 9am–5.30pm, Sat 10am–3.30pm or by appointment. Ph: 09 930 6268. Free car parking in the basement. The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
This is our house – UnserHaus Inspiration for your place, at ours. Home appliances are an integral consideration for anyone renovating, building or upgrading their kitchen, but it can sometimes be a daunting task knowing where to begin when selecting each appliance. Regardless of budget and lifestyle needs, the expert team at UnserHaus takes the time to listen and build relationships with a focus on longevity to help exceed your kitchen and home appliance requirements. UnserHaus, meaning our house in German, is a stunning show space based on Parnell Rise which offers consumers a new way to experience the latest in home appliance technology. Featuring three beautifully crafted kitchens that showcase each of their high-end brands: Gaggenau, NEFF and Bosch, UnserHaus provides a platform to learn and experience unique ideas for your home. These iconic brands offer not only innovation, but style and sophistication, and UnserHaus provides a space that easily adapts to the varied needs of the community around it. Whether it be for a fantastic party or an inspiring talk, UnserHaus has an open door for people who want to connect over a shared love of design, food, art or culture and the space is available to book for hosting your own events too. When you visit the beautiful show space you’ll get to see the outstanding German engineering of its product ranges and the unique features that make its brands exceptional in the home. The knowledgeable team offers demonstrations and ideas to help you figure out what’s best for your needs and how to get the best out of your new appliances. This ensures that long after your choice has been made, you can maximise the potential of each appliance and explore possible add-ons or upgrades as your life and requirements change. You also have the option to book an individual consultation with one of the UnserHaus team members
– Holly, Alex, Brigitte, Stella, Shannon, Annika and Sara – where they can share their ideas and guide you through the process. The UnserHaus team is there to start conversations that inform, educate and leave you feeling inspired. The team wants you to love your new kitchen and relish the chance to design it with you. UnserHaus is a place to immerse yourself in local design, food, family and community under one roof. A place that truly understands kitchens and the changing needs of everyday lives. To meet the team, view recipes and to book a consultation or cooking demonstration, visit unserhaus.co.nz F PN
UNSERHAUS, 65 Parnell Rise, Parnell T. 0800 245708, www.unserhaus.co.nz
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Modern, bespoke kitchen design demands the most up to date technology. NEFF has been bringing magic into the kitchen since 1877, winning awards with their unique blend of innovative design and functionality. Visit us at UnserHaus to give it a try for yourself â&#x20AC;&#x201C; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll leave feeling inspired.
Showroom 65 Parnell Rise Auckland 1052 0800 245 708 unserhaus.co.nz
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Finding the right property manager can be a daunting task One of the most important things you can do for your portfolio is to appoint the best property manager to look after it. Yet, many people see property management as an extra cost off the bottom line and struggle to understand what value is delivered. Solid business processes in place are essential to avoid poor-quality management in an unregulated industry. However, to tell apart the good managers to the excellent value managers, you need to dig further to assess the extra value delivered beyond ‘getting the job done’. This can be ascertained by checking how knowledgeable the property managers are on maintenance/renovations’ issues or the area, the ability to provide insightful recommendations to improve your ROI and if they have first-hand investment experience. Being a property investor gives an edge with the ability to truly understand your pain points. You should know if you are talking to the Business Development Manager or to the Account Manager who will look after you as a client on an ongoing basis. Make sure you talk to the actual person who will be assigned to you before making a final decision. Typically, when dealing with a smaller firm, you have more consistency of management, with a low or no staff turnover but, in this case, it is paramount to make sure you trust their competency. Finally, non-tangible parameters where you relate to the person, feel you like and trust him/her come into play – do your homework first. Here is a list of questions for your interviews to get you started. Catalise Ltd is happy to answer all of these and more, anytime. Contact them below. Avoid poor-quality property management: • Can I get a copy of your management agreement so I can understand what your management fee includes? • What systems do you have in place to support your service delivery? • How often do you inspect the property, and can I see an example inspection report? • Can I see an example financial statement? Do you operate a separate bank account for your clients’ money? • What are your qualifications and experience? • How often would you communicate with me? • How often will I be paid?
• How often have you attended the Tenancy Tribunal and what has your success rate been? • How do you respond to repair and emergency maintenance calls? Differentiate the excellent from the good managers: • What is your property management speciality? Is property management the primary focus of your business? • What are your suggestions to help me increase my rental return and optimise my property’s condition? Will you review and advise me of the need for maintenance regularly? • What are your customer churn rates? • Who will look after my property? If it is not you, can I meet with the person before I sign? • How often do you review rents and what marketing strategy do you suggest? F PN
CATALISE LTD, 203a Symonds Street, Eden Terrace, M: 021 352 670, wwww.catalise.co.nz
unlock your property potential providing a pathway to To look after your biggest asset, you need someone you can trust - contact Sandie:
www.catalise.co.nz
130 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
Residential/ Commercial/ Air BnB
Step by step, we partner with you to bring out the best in your property, attract the right tenants, and succeed with your investment
success 021 352 670 sales@catalise.co.nz 203a Symonds St, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010 PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
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A COOKTOP & RANGEHOOD IN ONE APPLIANCE. NEFF Vented cooktops integrate style, functionality and simplicity. Combining the function of a cooktop and rangehood in one appliance, vented cooktops remove steam and smells before they can spread around the kitchen.
For more information visit QHÉ¡ FR Q] or our UnserHaus showroom. 65 Parnell Rise, Parnell, Auckland. XQVHUKDXV FR Q].
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
PRACTICAL MAGIC Create your dream kid’s room with a limited edition piece of New Zealand-made Meluka furniture. Simple, stylish and built tough for lasting performance, the Meluka PLayhouse Kids Headboard and PlayHouse Bookboy are just some of the elements that will add practical magic to PN your child’s room over summer. F Shop online at www.meluka.co.nz
Christmas Sale 20% OFF EVERYTHING! STUDYboy 2 Crate $677 Or 6 weekly interest free payments from $112.83
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Furniture. Simply.
132 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
meluka.co.nz
D ESIGN ED AN D M AD E IN N Z
T H RE E KIN G S 98 3 M T ED EN R D N O RT H S H O RE 13A LI N K D R ALB AN Y 2 60 OTEH A VA LLEY R D B OTAN Y D O W N S 501 TI R A K AU D R H AMILTO N 15 MAUI ST
TAU RAN G A 156 C H A D WI C K R D TAU PO 2 9 TOTA R A ST H AS T IN G S 810 HERETAUNGA ST PALME RS TO N N O RT H 699 M A I N ST LO W E R H U T T 2 8 R U TH ER FOR D ST
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Smarter security. Safer home. With Christmas and summer holidays fast approaching, the typical Kiwi’s time away from home is increasing. Whether that be attending social events, heading off on a local getaway or jet-setting half way across the world, thousands of Kiwis are leaving their homes unattended, making home security an important consideration. “In the last few years, security systems have leapt ahead in sophistication, while also falling in price relative to the features they offer,” says Skopik’s, Darren Hogg. “This makes them an increasingly attractive proposition for home owners.” With over 20 years of experience in the ICT and AV industry, Skopik is a specialist when it comes to home security solutions. Offering everything from design, wiring and installation, as well as home automation, audio-visual, IT, electrical and lighting, Skopik really is a one-stop shop for all things techy. There’s no one size fits all when it comes to a home security system. A basic entry-level system may be great for a small townhouse or unit. However, if you’re looking to secure a larger home, you’ll need a system that can handle a larger amount of information and monitoring. “Regardless of the simplicity or complexity of the
final solution, the most important thing when implementing a home security system is the planning stage”, says Darren. Skopik’s top tips to consider when planning a home security system are: • What features do you want to include? CCTV, alarm, keyless entry, 24/7 monitoring, smartphone integration? Desired features will ascertain the scope and budget for the system. • If your desired system is outside of your current budget, consider installing an entry-level system to begin with, but futureproof during the planning phase to enable you to add to it a later stage. • Wired or wireless system? Each has its pros and cons which are dependent on the level of complexity and functions required for your final system. • Do you want remote access and control of your security system? With apps such as Control4, you can view house cameras, lock your doors and even turn on your outside lights from any location in the world. • Security systems are more than just locks, cameras and alarms. It is vital to have adequate support lighting installed for recording PN security footage at night. F
If you’re interested in a home security system, or any other home automation solution, get in touch with the team at Skopik by calling 0800 SKOPIK (756 745) or visit the website www.skopik.nz
Bridging the gap between technology and people. Skopik are ICT & AV specialists, offering home automation and smart home solutions. Whether your home was built decades ago, is currently being built or is yet to be built – every home can be a smart home. We pride ourselves on delivering individualised solutions that cater to the lifestyle and demands of each of our clients. From consultation to design, installation to commissioning, Skopik will be there every step of the way.
For more information visit our website or call 0800 SKOPIK (756 745)
skopik.nz Photo Courtesy of Control4
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to say goodbye... 111 Shelly Beach Road, St Marys Bay This much-loved family home proudly occupying an elevated position on a vast (1300m2) north facing, sun-drenched site with stunning 180 degree views out to Westhaven Marina, the glittering harbour, Rangitoto, the cityscape and beyond, offers a truly rare opportunity to secure premium real estate in this most sought-after St Marys Bay neighbourhood. Just a short stroll to Pt Erin Pools and Park, the vibrant hub of both Ponsonby and Jervois Road, or meander the nearby Westhaven boardwalk alongside the marina and enjoy the cafes and restaurants en route to Wynyard Quarter and the bustling Viaduct. With tree-framed, secluded grounds and expansive lawns, this solid 1940s home boasts three double bedrooms, the master enjoying harbour and sea views, large bathroom, spacious kitchen, separate lounge, open-plan dining and living space bathed in northerly sun, the perfect place to relax or entertain your guests. Head out to the generous deck where you will be mesmerised by the most stunning views. Already a very comfortable and liveable home, this would also be a great start to develop your ultimate dream home which could potentially be one of the most desired residences not only in Auckland but in New Zealand. This is exceptional Auckland real estate for the most discerning buyer. For an exclusive viewing, call Carl Madsen on M: 021 953 152, E: c.madsen@barfoot.co.nz
134 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
45 Mt Eden Road – liveable and vibrant Auckland It’s not often that the architect of an apartment building is also the developer. When that happens, you know you have something special, and that is exactly what you get when you choose one of the 15 quality apartments at recently launched 45 Mt Eden Road. Designed by architect Graeme Scott to be part of the ‘liveable and vibrant Auckland’ he envisions, 45 Mt Eden Road is the latest project in Graeme’s long and esteemed career, which has focused on creating quality urban environments. Having lived and worked alongside wife Melissa Anderson Scott, an artist and book illustrator, in the Mt Eden area for the past four decades, this is an area that’s especially close to his and Melissa’s hearts. Together they own Anscot Property Ltd, which will develop 45 Mt Eden Road. Construction will be overseen by Ponsonby-based ASC Architects, where Graeme has worked for 40 years designing and/ or supervising the construction of many large commercial projects, including several apartment buildings such as Market Cove in Favona, Kilbryde in Parnell and Lakeside West in Queenstown. 45 Mt Eden Road is an exciting addition to the regenerating suburb of Eden Terrace, creating an immediate visual impact with its striking exterior of durable steel, concrete and red brick. The building already has resource and building consents granted and funding is in place, providing peace of mind to off-plan purchasers. Contractor has been appointed and is ready to start building in January 2020. 45 Mount Eden Road will take approximately 15 months to build, hence prospected settlement is set to be in mid 2021.
136 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
Careful design, high-quality materials and sustainability, this is the thinking behind 45 Mount Eden Road. Each apartment, with prices starting from $750,000, has been carefully designed to Home-star 6 standard, with an efficient central air-conditioning and hot water system partly powered by solar panels on the roof. Here you can choose from a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, each with a generous balcony offering great views of the Waitakere Ranges, and from two contemporary palettes featuring stylish, timeless neutrals. Surrounding area to the west is destined for great change over the next five years with electric rail lines that will be installed below ground and newly developed streets and parks, with additional land being available for community-focused redevelopment. Mt Eden train station will be just a short walk along the newly renovated Shaddock Street from the lower basement level of 45 Mt Eden Road. From there it will be one stop to K’Road, two stops to Aotea Square and three stops to Britomart. To secure your brand new home in this tight urban community, rich in the amenities only central Auckland can offer, contact New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty by calling Jason Gaddes on M: 021 994 921 or Klara Pulceska on M: 027 551 3955. F PN www.45mtedenrd.nz
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
NEW RELEASE
Architect-led development of 15 high-quality apartments in a great urban location
• • •
One bedroom from $750,000 Two bedroom from $1,250,000 Three bedroom from $1,695,000
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Efficient air-conditioning and central hot water systems partly powered by roof-top solar panels
On-site sales office viewing by appointment Location: 45 Mount Eden Road, Eden Terrace
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.
Jason Gaddes mobile email
021 994 921 jason.gaddes@nzsir.com
Klara Pulceska mobile email
027 551 3955 klara.pulceska@nzsir.com
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Heidi Padain: Entertainment in your garden My favourite book from my childhood is The Wishing Chair Collection by Enid Blyton. It would be fair to say that this may have something to do with the fact that I own not one, but three rocking chairs. I often like to pull one of my rocking chairs out on to the deck, climb into it and try to see the world from a different perspective. Today was one of those days. With a book on one side and my camera on the other, it didn’t take long before I was distracted by something wonderful. I leant back and stared up into the pohutukawa tree that overhangs our deck. Currently, it is covered in buds, so I’m hoping for a spectacular display of red flowers this Christmas. That’s when I saw the Eastern rosellas sitting on one of the branches. My heart sank a little. Every year they come along and nibble at the buds. This is destructive to say the least! However, on this occasion I found myself intrigued by a pair that were behaving rather oddly. One seemed to be bouncing up and down while stretching out its neck. The other was hunched down a little, staring up at the performance. At first, I thought it was a flirtatious dance, and then I realised that this was an adult and juvenile. The adult was going to a great deal of effort to raise the food from out of its crop. I found the entire scene quite lovely. Eastern rosellas are stunningly beautiful.
Within a short space of time, two kereru landed in the pohutukawa tree just a few branches lower than where the Eastern rosellas were. To my astonishment, this was also an adult and juvenile arrangement. You might recall in the November issue, I had a pair of kereru visiting daily, and how much I hoped to see their young. I am thrilled to confirm that I have. It’s the first time I have ever seen an adult kereru feeding its young. The performance is somewhat low key compared to the rosellas. The juvenile does a bit of wing flapping, while the adult lowers its head, and opens the beak wide so that the juvenile can get in there and help itself. I’m so excited at the prospect of having more time to sit in one of my rocking chairs over the Christmas break. I’ve already placed a little tinsel outside for the birds to play around in. I hope you all have a relaxing break, and remember – you don’t need to go anywhere to have an adventure. Just sit outside and allow yourself to be entertained. (HEIDI PADAIN) F PN
To see some of Heidi’s other photographic work, go to www.flickr.com and type Heidi Padain into the search box, or, you can contact Heidi by email hidihi@xtra.co.nz, or look her up on Facebook... Heidi Padain Photography
138 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Got a building question? Ask Brendon on brendon@nextlevelconstruct.co.nz Q: My husband and I have just received back quotes for our renovation project in Westmere, and there were some differences in how the quotes were presented. One construction company presented a fixed price quote, with everything included and broken down for us to understand. The other construction company has given us a quote, where we will pay as we go. This construction company did give us an indication of cost of how much they think its going to cost, and it was significantly less than the first company. What are the benefits of each quote type? In New Zealand, there are two ways of quoting residential construction work: fixed-price quotes and charge-up (also known as cost-plus-margin). Deciding between the two is a hard decision, as they both have their advantages and disadvantages. It is vital that you understand the differences between charge-up and fixed price before agreeing to work with a builder. Fixed-price quotes You will know upfront exactly what your build is going to cost you, allowing you full control of your budget and timeline and giving you a level of certainty right at the beginning of your build. The price shown on your contract will be what you end up paying. There is always the possibility of additional costs. Our clients receive a full fixed-price quotation with a breakdown of materials, labour and subcontractors required, along with a detailed scope of the work, so they know exactly what is and isn’t included. Unfortunately, there are occasionally surprises – especially with a renovation project. This is because it is hard to gauge the condition
WHY MOVE WHEN YOU CAN IMPROVE? If your home isn’t working for you anymore, let us show you how it can.
Fixed price
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140 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
of certain parts of the house as we can’t see or test for everything. If something is discovered that needs to be fixed, or amended before continuing with the project, this will be highlighted to the client as a variation to the contract. Next Level Construct has two quantity surveyors that work in-house. Using their expertise and experience with residential construction, we can ensure that your quote is as accurate as possible based on the plans and information you provide us. Fixed-price contracts are increasingly being asked for by the banks, so if you require finance, keep this in mind. Charge-up quotes Charge-up contracts are basically an educated estimate of the project cost before you start. These are based off square metre rates for the type of project and previous experience. The figure given is more of an indication of cost than a fixed sum, and it will always seem cheaper than any fixed-price quotes you may receive. This type of contract includes the builder’s cost price of all materials and sub trades plus the builder’s margin. Exceptions and ‘tagged’ items may still apply to this type of contract (this would be anything not in the scope received by the builder). Many builders choose to use charge-up quotes, as they don’t employ the services of a quantity surveyor. Starting with only an estimate does means it’s harder to know what the exact final cost will be at the end, and often projects working on a charge-up basis will overrun both regarding time and budget. Quotes do take time to prepare. Our quantity surveying team may spend anywhere from 30-60 hours to accurately price a large project. So, when you as the homeowner are responsible for all the labour and material used on a project, there is little incentive for a construction company to spend this amount of time making sure their estimate is accurate. Another issue with charge-up is that the construction company may be less inclined to get the best prices for materials or labour, because they’re not the ones paying – you are. Also, as they aren’t responsible for overrun costs, they may be less motivated to get the project done on time. At the end of the day, you must make a decision that is going to be right for you. If you engage the services of an established and professional construction company, then you can mitigate the risks of either a fixed price or a charge-up quote. Whoever you engage, make sure they are prepared to put in the work at the front end to ensure the scope of your project is correct, even if you’re the one paying for overruns. At Next Level Construct, we use fixed-price quotes for our work. We always aim to deliver your project on time and on budget. We will organise everything from contractors through to the final inspection for you, so you don’t need to run around gathering further quotes for trades or worrying about orchestrating them all – you can leave all of that to us and it will all be outlined in your contract. Furthermore, your contract with us allows you to take advantage of our industry discounts on materials and trades, so you get the best price possible. Brendon Sowerby is the Founder of Next Level Construct, an awardwinning, end-to-end residential construction company specialising in renovations, extensions and new builds. Brendon has worked in the building trade for over 17 years, meaning he knows the ins and outs PN of the industry. F PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Perfectly balanced The design of a kitchen can make or break a house, especially when it’s at the centre of the home. Not only is it visible from multiple rooms – so it has to look good – but it also holds the key to the efficiency of the circulation in the house, which means it has to work well, too. The skill of a good kitchen designer is in bringing these two key elements of aesthetics and functionality together in a way that works well for the space in which the kitchen sits and, most importantly, resonates with the homeowners’ taste and family situation.
solution,” says Marianne. “Their existing kitchen island was wide and short, with an up-stand, which not only looked old fashioned, but also made the walk-through very tight and wasn’t really proportioned to the shape of the room.”
During their journey to find a new kitchen for their modern home, the owners of this kitchen came across Kitchens By Design in a local magazine. They liked what they saw and decided to pay a visit to the Takapuna showroom, where they met one of the firm’s in-house designers, Marianne Gailer.
Marianne’s new concept introduced a longer, slimmer island that allowed for a lot better circulation. She also brought into play the informal dining space at the end of the room by incorporating matching cabinetry along the back wall. Her design brought together the whole room into one cohesive space, and also gave her clients a lot more usable storage than they had with their original kitchen.
“They knew what they liked and didn’t like; they just needed someone to bring their ideas together and guide them and help them find a
“With colour and materials, it always starts with the benchtop with me; everything else then falls into shape, either contrasting or complementing with darker or lighter cabinetry colours,” says Marianne. “With this kitchen we chose a rich, veined porcelain material and continued the darker theme by selecting a matching cabinetry colour. As a contrast, the colour of the cabinetry at the dining end of the space, which we also designed, was matched to the wall colour to help it blend in.” Among the list of space-saving and technical solutions the designer introduced is a downdraft extractor, mounted behind the cooktop on the benchtop, which is a lot more efficient than the overhead variety. Next to it, there’s an on-bench, pull-out pantry, plus an all-in-one tap on the kitchen island that provides boiling and filtered drinking water as well as your normal hot and cold water. There’s also a handy popup power point on the benchtop for small appliances. Choosing all these gadgets is one thing, bringing them all together is quite another, and that’s where the team at Kitchens By Design excels. “Because we were brought in right at the beginning and oversaw all the work, we were able to plan everything well ahead with all the subcontractors, making the whole process very efficient,” says Marianne. “As a team, we go the extra mile to make sure that our clients are satisfied with the final product – and in this case they absolutely love their new kitchen.” F PN
KITCHENS BY DESIGN, visit one of our showrooms today, Newmarket: 7 Melrose Street, T: 09 379 3084, Takapuna: 3 Byron Avenue, T: 09 488 7201, www.kitchensbydesign.co.nz
142 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Visit one of our showrooms today. Newmarket 7 Melrose Street, Newmarket (09) 379 3084 Takapuna 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (09) 488 7201
Aesthetics meet functionality in this modern kitchen.
kitchensbydesign.co.nz
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
URBAN + BEACH – LIFESTYLE FURNITURE Extensive range, global style. Over the last five years, this family run business has internationally sourced an extensive collection of high-quality, indoor and outdoor furniture. Bringing together a global style that will add sophistication to any home, bach or office. Urban & Beach stocks classic, contemporary and unique collections from American oak dining tables, to handmade, recycled boat-wood pieces, modern, reclining leather sofas, luxurious, occasional chairs and high-quality teak outdoor furniture – ideal for New Zealand’s harsh outdoor elements.
Sustainability is an important consideration for Urban & Beach when selecting furniture. Whenever possible, indoor furniture products are sourced from suppliers using sustainable timber supplies. All recycled teak outdoor furniture sourced is issued with a SVLK certificate – which means the timber can be traced. New stock is arriving constantly to their huge North Shore store and showroom which is open seven days. Come and talk quality, design and style with the team and explore the extensive range for yourself.
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1. Cayenne outdoor dining set; 2. Chisholm outdoor dining chair; 3. Laguna outdoor chair; 4. Teak outdoor dining set URBAN + BEACH, 31 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, T: 09 479 9577, www.urban-beach.co.nz
144 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS 1
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ASHIMA: Strong People 1. Natural Charm: Inspired by the labyrinthine nature of the forest of Shilin, Leonardo has created a stone-effect collection with a highly distinctive appeal.
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2. Living Light: These are tiles that stand out for the range of light that is refracted in each individual piece.
4. In & Out: Available in both light and bold tones, such as white, grey and black, this coloured, full-body porcelain stoneware comes in two different surface finishes, for indoors and outdoors.
3. Enhancing Material: The surfaces look rough and stony with lines and furrows that seem marked by the elements and the passing of time, but their heart is soft.
On display at Tonic Tile Lounge, one size available 600x1200 – made in Italy.
10am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, by appointment any other time. 254 Richmond Road Grey Lynn, Auckland (next to Homage) M: 021 644 728 / www.tonictiles.co.nz
146 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
The “Art and Science” behind Successful Real Estate Results.
STEWART MORGAN BSc (Hons) M: +64 21 933 305 stewart.morgan@nzsir.com
RICHARD BURT BFA, GradDipT M: +64 21 773 187 richard.burt@nzsir.com
nzsothebysrealty.com Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
One of the last to be one of the best Those who frequent Western Park either with their kids on the playground, pooches on the run or just walkers and runners making the most of the beautiful, treed open spaces will recognise one of the most iconic homesteads on the park boundary. Set on a total of 660m2 (more or less) and with grandstand views to the city, it has been part of the local scene for almost 100 years. Built in the early 1900s it has had a variety of uses over its lifetime – a common theme in these original homes. The current layout contains three separate spaces all adding up to a sizeable income proposition. Given the conversion is historic, the future for the property is now to return it to the family home it once was. A third-party report from an approved building inspector has now been lodged with council covering the structure itself, declaring it in line with the building practices of the time. This provides an excellent starting point for the new owners’ plans and dreams. Not only is the home itself compelling, the lure of another freehold title set between the existing home and the park offers fantastic development potential (subject to local authority consents). Live in one while building new, or however you wish to work it. The options are almost limitless. Both are being sold together. Recently, the Freemans Bay streets along the top of the ridges have surged in popularity with many villas undergoing substantial renovations. This has created a neighbourhood of premium, desirable family homes, maximising the amazing views, neighbourhood amenities, proximity to the city and the Ponsonby Strip. Number 1
Smith Street is all set to join this elite list of aspirational homes in this premium locale. Call Keith or Sandy of Custom Residential for more details on this PN amazing opportunity. M: 021 877 905 or M: 021 877 804. F www.keithandsandy.co.nz
Clothing Alterations
Alter Ego Roong T: 09 376 8689
T: 378 9560 M: 0274 746 507 E: Phillipa@hotpropertyrentals.co.nz 1/1 Franklin Road, Ponsonby www.hotpropertyrentals.co.nz
“TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF BEING A LANDLORD – CALL US”
148 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
M: 021 032 9128
182-4a Jervois Road, Herne Bay E: ra_cha29@yahoo.com “I get all my bits & pieces done by the smiling helpful Roong... and she’s got Eftpos = sorted...” MARTIN LEACH
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
BECOME A FRIEND OF
K ELMARNA GARDENS KELMARNA G A R D E NS
FOR AS FOR AS LITTLE LITTLE AS AS $$55 A M MONTH ONT H Your regular donation will help connect more school children with nature, empower people all
over Auckland with sustainable living choices and develop and maintain a therapeutic garden. Join now at: www.kelmarnagardens.nz/donate
Successfully Selling Brilliant Homes In Your Neighbourhood “Perseverance and committed. Two words that perfectly sum up Felicity. The sale of property is often a hard fought slog and ours was no different! Felicity helped and advised us throughout the entire sale process and continued to keep us updated and serve our best interests. Her commitment to her customers is second to none and I would recommend her to anyone looking at buying or selling property. Thanks for all your help Felicity!” - Daniel Plested, owner of 62A Wellpark, Grey Lynn
BY NEGOTIATION 20 Harcourt St, Grey Lynn 3
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Elevated west facing villa that is beautifully renovated throughout. Easy opportunity to add value by extending out the back. Wonderful level indoor/outdoor flow to generous sized north west garden
BY NEGOTIATION 2C, 2 Dickens St, Grey Lynn 2
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Ponsonby Road an easy level 5 minute walk away. Grey Lynn Park access down the street. Light and sunny open plan living from extra height ceiling and windows.
Felicity Scott BBS | Residential Sales M 0274 522 241 B 09 376 3039 E f.scott@barfoot.co.nz | barfoot.co.nz/f.scott The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
ELAINE FERGUSON AND MATT JOHNSON AN UNRIVALLED RAY WHITE DUO With Elaine’s degree and a background in psychotherapy and design and Matt’s previous service in the New Zealand Police Force, this Ray White property duo brings a versatile yet well-balanced dynamic to the table. In order to carry a truly successful career in real estate, Elaine upholds the values of honesty, integrity, transparency and being as straight forward as possible. Matt’s strategic thinking helps him plan, develop and carry out successful property campaigns. Together, Elaine and Matt make for well-balanced teamwork supported by years of industry insight as well as a bold, creative and energetic approach. Elaine is brilliant at reading people – this means she understands the emotional process of buying and selling a home. Her approach of treating her clients with sensitivity and respect goes a long way in the dynamic of this property duo. Her attentive listening skills give her the upper hand. Elaine is well versed in uncovering what the real obstacles are for home buyers and sellers. At the end of the day, it’s this intuitive talent that gets each sale over the line. Matt, also a key member of the Ray White Ponsonby team, brings with him a bold and enthusiastic approach, which, in essence, is a massive driver of success between this property duo. With his eagle eye for detail and some of the top negotiation skills on the property market today, Matt is committed to delivering a successful, streamlined experience for any home buyer or seller, no matter the market. Matt is calm and collected and believes in creating a stress-free experience for all parties involved. Together, Elaine and Matt have seen immense success within their property portfolios during the time they have worked together as a team. They believe that there really is no ‘magic trick’ to success – it takes hard work, open lines of communication and honesty between each other and with every client. Elaine Ferguson M: 027 534 5024, elaine.ferguson@raywhite.com, Matt Johnson M: 027 243 6831, matt.johnson@raywhite.com T: 09 376 2186, 259 Ponsonby Road, www.rwponsonby.co.nz Ray White Damerell Group Ltd (Licensed REAA 2008)
150 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
Elaine Ferguson & Matt Johnson Licensee Salespeople A snapshot from the more than 35 homes we have sold this year for our Amazing Vendors and to our Purchasers.
139 Grey Street, Onehunga
4 Martin Avenue, Mount Albert
2/34 Kingsway Avenue, Sandringham
7A Alberta Street, Point Chevalier
36 Harbour View Road, Point Chevalier
13 Saltaire Street, Avondale
21 Ponsonby Terrace, Ponsonby
1B Rewiti Street, Orakei
105 Burnley Terrace, Sandringham
9/99 Shelly Beach Road, St Marys Bay
31A Reimers Avenue, Mount Eden
101/43 Brown Street, Ponsonby
45 Cowan Street, Ponsonby
13/8 Rendall Place, Eden Terrace
2/252 Meola Road, Point Chevalier
Elaine Ferguson 027 534 5024 elaine.ferguson@raywhite.com Matt Johnson 027 243 6831 matt.johnson@raywhite.com 259 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby Ray White Damerell Group Limited (Licensed REAA 2008)
Selling a wide range of properties, across Central Auckland.
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS FROM MARY KELLY KILIMS On a recent buying trip to Istanbul, Mary was struck by a new trend. The ever-innovative Turkish artisans are now producing a huge array of rugs and other products made from vintage hemp material to create a modern take on the Turkish rug pieces.
a new first to the MKK range – a small selection of large and small poufs in both neutral whites/greys as well as colourful patchworks. They make a great addition to any lounge or bach interior.
To compliment her wide range of kilims, rugs, runners, bags and cushions, Mary has now introduced a number of hemp products – which is an exciting new addition. Amongst these hemp products is
Visit the showroom today to see these new pieces for yourself, and tick a few things off your Christmas shopping list at the same time.
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1. White hemp pouf, 40x40x45cm - $255; 2. Patchwork pouf, 40x40x45cm - $255 3. Kilim & leather backpack - $250; 4. Rug - Anatolian Sivrihisar kilim, 300cm x147cm - $1695 5. White hemp cushion, 50cmx50cm - $95; 6. Patchwork hemp cushion, 870cmx600cm - $215
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MARY KELLY KILIMS, 53 Wood Street, Freemans Bay, M: 021 211 8904, Email: mkelly@xtra.co.nz, www.marykellykilims.co.nz
152 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
HOME WHERE THE HEART IS
Merry Christmas We would like to thank our clients for their continued support, and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a relaxing holiday.
Tricia Lafferty
Kym Aikin
m: 021 611 205 t: 09 376 2186
m: 021 596 222 t: 09 376 2186 3BZ 8IJUF %BNFSFMM (SPVQ -JDFOTFE 3&""
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77 The Strand , Parnell. Phone 0800 266 206. The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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photography: Peter Rees
ARTS + CULTURE
L to R: Sarah Guppy (artist), Clive Humphreys (selector and judge), Mark Izzard (the Skin Institute) alongside Guppy’s awardwinning work
Ponsonby artist wins Figurative Award Ponsonby artist Sarah Guppy was the winner of the Michael Evans Figurative Award for figurative work, sponsored by the Skin Institute, at last weekend’s prestigious Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award, which opened at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery on Friday 25 October. Waiheke artist Struan Hamilton was the winner of this year’s $5000 Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award with his work Te Toki Study, a photo intaglio work on paper that explores the island’s organic environment, revealed through abstracting natural structure, particularly that of older trees like the pohutukawa. Judy Woods from Whangarei won the Zinni Douglas Merit Award sponsored by the gallery for her work titled Playtime (acrylic and mixed media on panel). The work is an intuitive abstract response to utilising different materials and the enchantment of accidental marks that create an element of surprise. The Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award is an annual national art award for two-dimensional works in any medium established to promote excellence in art.
This year’s selector and judge was accomplished artist and regular exhibitor Clive Humphreys who recently retired to Waiheke from his role as Head of School, Dunedin School of Art at Otago Polytechnic. In talking about the works, Humphreys commented on the “breadth and diversity that characterised the exhibition” and “how a number of artists had chosen to bring the viewer up close to the surface of the work, as if to emphasise the flatness of the picture plane and the primacy of the medium and its unique materiality.” In congratulating the artists he also commented how, “the arts are about contestable opinion and this is their fundamental strength – allowing visitors to respond to their own sensibilities.” The Walker & Hall is now a major award event in the New Zealand visual arts calendar, having been in existence for over 13 years. This year, there were over 80 entries with 33 chosen for the award PN exhibition, said Gallery Director Linda Chalmers. F
Glenys Lindsay Experienced wedding & ceremony celebrant. Your ceremony will be special, memorable & exclusively for you. T: 09 256 1081 M: 021 868 610 www.aucklandcelebrant.co.nz
154 PONSONBY NEWS+ December 2019
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MAKING ART FOR A BETTER TOMORROW New Zealand’s largest collection of art works by internationally renowned artists Gillie and Marc, will be available to view and collect this December at the Flagstaff Gallery’s exciting first pop-up exhibition. Over 70 works ranging from large paintings to elegant bronze sculptures and framed prints will be on display in Ponsonby Central from 16 - 31 December. Gillie and Marc have made a name for themselves through creating art to affect change, producing works that centre around global themes of love, equality and conservation of animals. Best known for their iconic Dogman and Rabbitwoman duo, the artists depict two of the animal kingdom’s most unlikely companions to draw upon the themes that mean most to them. Alongside this infamous pair you will see stunning sculptures of rhinos, elephants and gorillas; all drawing attention to these endangered species and asking you to engage in their plight and magnificence. With the only collection of Gillie and Marc works in Auckland, the Flagstaff Gallery is excited to bring their art work to new audiences
Three elephants, Limited edition print, mage size: 594 x 420mm through an innovative partnership that aims to increase awareness of the artists and their message. Starting with the pop-up gallery this December, the gallery hopes to expand its collaboration with individual collectors and organisations to develop private collections and public art works that can be enjoyed by all. For more information, please visit or contact us. F PN
She loved him more than she thought was possible
THE FLAGSTAFF GALLERY, 30 Victoria Road, Devonport, T: 09 445 1142, www.flagstaff.nz E: gallery@flagstaff.nz
presents
A pop-up exhibition at Ponsonby Central December 16 - 31 136 - 146 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland Open until 9pm every night The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
www.flagstaff.nz
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North West Food Wine Fest The Mutton Birds photography: Michael Flynn
Auckland Folk Festival photography: Daniel Brunskill
Nadia Reid Tuning Fork
ARTS + CULTURE
Finn McLennan-Elliott: Summer is upon us! With that comes a plethora of excellent music events and festivals. Ponsonby News has you covered; here are some of the best things you could get along to, both indoor and outdoor. Rhythm & Vines If you are itching to get away from Auckland, then look no further than Gisborne and Rhythm & Vines. Over 100 international and local acts who will feature, will join some 21,000 festival attendees over three days celebrating the 17th edition of Rhythm & Vines, held at Waiohika Estate. Playboi Carti is one of the biggest reasons to head along for this New Year’s Eve, with a live performance that brings ridiculous energy and a mosh pit to remember. Dave Dobbyn hit cult status with his second appearance in 2015 and returns this year, welcomed by both young and old. Located on the lush green lawns of Waiohika Homestead, the Garden Stage plays host to Harper Finn, Wax Mustang, Frank Booker and more over the three days. While the popular Cellar Stage, often referred to as the Forest Stage, will see headline performances from Tom Trago, Patrice Bäumel, Calyx and Teebee, Makato & MC Fava and Culture Shock to name a few. The forest floor will be moving from December 29 till the early hours of 2020. North West Wine, Beer & Food Festival Returning after another sellout year, the Hunting Lodge will be home to one of the most exciting festivals on the summer circuit. Only 30 minutes northwest of Auckland City, the festival has pulled together a spectacular lineup headlined by The Mutton Birds, after an eight year hiatus. Joining them are The Black Seeds and local rising star Milly Tabak and the Miltones. Food and beverage is all from the local area, featuring food from The Riverhead, Hallertau Brewery and The Tasting Shed. There will be local wineries and breweries tempting you with their beverages including Kumeu River, Coopers Creek, Liberty Brewing Company and Hallertau. The Mutton Birds’ frontman Don McGlashan says, “It’s a huge thrill to be taking flight with the Mutton Birds again next summer. Whenever we play together, something strange and beautiful happens.
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“It’s like pulling out a coat that you haven’t worn for a while, but it still fits uncannily well, and suddenly you feel like you could leap tall buildings.” The perfect day getaway, this boutique festival returns on Saturday 15 February. St Jerome’s Laneway Festival We covered Laneway in depth a few months back, and the festival will not disappoint. They’ve just announced a who’s who of food trucks from around Auckland to be present, continuing their tradition of being the best festival to eat at in Auckland. Local artist Benee just cleaned up four awards at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards last month and is sure to continue rising. King Gizzard and the Lizard are globally loved and return to Laneway with their genuine rock and roll. Australian indie folk artist Julia Jacklin brings with her a new record that has generated a lot of buzz. She sings songs born from feelings of heartbreak, infatuation and loss, taking listeners on an elegantly raw and emotional musical journey with her in-the-moment narrative of devastating hard-hitting lyrics and gently transportive guitar and harmonies. Auckland Folk Festival A stellar range of overseas and New Zealand performers is set to make the 2020 Auckland Folk Festival the biggest and most exciting in its 47 year history. Held every Auckland Anniversary Weekend in January, the festival attracts thousands of music lovers from all over New Zealand, many of them musicians themselves. The festival has become something of an institution in Auckland but a growth spurt in recent years is seeing a new generation of folk fans discovering the natural sounds of acoustic instruments and the diverse roots and contrasting styles of modern folk music. PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
ARTS + CULTURE Rhythm and Vines
All told, around 150 performers will arrive at the Kumeu Showgrounds from USA, Canada, Ireland, UK and across New Zealand, joining a showcase of Auckland’s own diverse, multicultural music and dance on display throughout the weekend. Headlining the bill for the overseas acts, is the two-time Grammy Award winner Tim O’Brien, a folk legend in America, who comes to the festival with partner Jan Fabricius (US).
From the US comes bluesman Jerron ‘Blind Boy’ Paxton. Last time we saw Paxton he was supporting the UK trio Kitty, Daisy & Lewis, although he’s performed multiple times in New Zealand over the last five years. Paxton performs on a range of instruments, singing new and old tunes, and draws on his family’s rich southern roots to present a unique and beautiful performance. Don’t miss this one on 5 February at the Hollywood Cinema in Avondale.
Top overseas bands include Quebecois five-piece folk band Rosier (Canada), lively Celtic band Keeva (Ireland/New Zealand), the unique Pauline Scanlon Band (Ireland), and powerhouse English folk band Faustus (UK). Meanwhile, Kiwi success story Tattletale Saints (US/ New Zealand) return from their home in Nashville for the festival, with profound skills honed in the heart of the music business. While the summer is normally all about festivals, there are some excellent shows coming up that shouldn’t be missed.
Cafe One2one will be keeping the home fires burning throughout the summer with its regular music nights, but will also be hosting the legendary Paul Ubana Jones on Wednesday 22 January. Erin Cole-Baker, who comes back to New Zealand from the US, will be performing a rare Auckland show on Sunday 19 January, before an appearance at the Auckland Folk Festival.
Mac Demarco is returning for the first time in four years with a headline performance at the prestigious Town Hall on 8 January. May saw him release his fourth album Here Comes The Cowboy. It was described by Q Magazine as a ‘masterpiece’ and is definitely Demarco at his thoughtful and introspective best. Joining him at the Town Hall is local indie artist Fazerdaze. The brainchild of Amelia Murray, Fazerdaze has been quiet recently since debut record Morningside burst the band on to a global tour that included Coachella and Latitude Festival and headline shows in Asia, Europe and North America. This is Fazerdaze’s first show in over a year. The masked mystery man and critically acclaimed country star Orville Peck has announced a run of debut shows for Australia and New Zealand. The enigmatic singer and his bandmates will perform Sunday 12 January at The Tuning Fork. North Carolina-based Americana band Hiss Golden Messenger will perform its first New Zealand show on Friday 31 January at the Tuning Fork. This coincides with the release of the band’s brand new record Terms of Surrender. For over 10 years the profound song writing and vocals of M.C. Taylor spearheaded this prolific, perpetually evolving group. He’s toured and recorded relentlessly, earning devotees along the roads, deep in festival pits, and across the seas, delivering earnest performances that morph from jammy freakout to private prayer in a matter of measures. Graham Reid praises the band, “the songs transcend spare folk and reach towards something literary and philosophical.” They will be joined by a very special guest in New Zealand’s own Nadia Reid. A self-proclaimed fan of the band, this will be an intimate evening of folk and Americana.
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
Wellington indie-pop act Glass Vaults make the trip North to perform at the Wine Cellar on 10 January. Irish folk singer Andy Irvine will be kicking off the Auckland Folk Festival season with a side show at the Devonport Folk Club, the Bunker on Mt Victoria, on Monday 20 January. Award-winning, Lyttleton-based artist Delaney Davidson will be taking over the Wine Cellar on 25 January. The Auckland Council will be taking over parks across Auckland with its Music in Parks programme beginning in early January, so keep your eyes on the local green space and ensure you plan a picnic around that one. Have a safe summer filled with friends, family and music. See you in PN 2020. (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F Gig guide: Sunday 29 December – Rhythm & Vines Wednesday 8 January – Mac Demarco & Fazerdaze – Town Hall Friday, 10 January – Glass Vaults – The Wine Cellar Sunday, 12 January – Orville Peck – The Tuning Fork Friday, 17 January – Storehouse – The Wine Cellar Sunday, 19 January – Erin Cole Baker – Cafe One2one Monday, 20 January – Andy Irvine – The Bunker, Devonport Folk Club Wednesday, 22 January – Paul Ubana Jones – Cafe One2one Friday, 24 January – Auckland Folk Festival Saturday, 25 January – Delaney Davidson – The Wine Cellar Monday, 27 January – St Jerome’s Laneway Festival Friday, 31 January – Hiss Golden Messenger – The Tuning Fork Wednesday, 5 February – Blind Boy Paxton – Hollywood Avondale Saturday, 15 February – North West Wine, Beer & Food Festival
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UPTOWN ART SCENE While we question how much more ‘stuff’ we want or need, our lives are always enriched with culture, and it’s one thing we don’t OD from; quite the opposite – we grow as people and as a society. I called around some of our local galleries to see what, over the 12 Days of Christmas, my True Love might want to (afford to) pick up for me. The office at Whitespace in Monmouth Street always attracts me, with kooky Jim Cooper ceramics and Hanna Shim soft sculptures. I asked Director Deborah White for her advice. “I’m horrified by new collectors who purchase so called ‘limited edition’ reproductions without realising what they are and that they have no value, when John Pusateri (recipient of NZ Painting & Printmaking Award 2018) monotypes are unique works and available from $350 each. Also great buying are paintings and drawings by Te Mahurehure/Ngapuhi artist Penny Howard, creating modern taonga, starting from $1200.” Anna Miles, whose Upper Queen Street gallery of the same name is a treasure trove of objects and paintings, reminds me that “Dealers
are mines of information – tap into them. There is always much value to be had in specialised areas… the history of objectmaking in Aotearoa is exceptional in world terms – but a museum-quality teapot is obtainable for less than a modest painting by a recent graduate.” She can see me drooling over the Richard Stratton agateware teapots. Along K’Road at Melanie Roger Gallery, I added some gorgeous new Sam Mitchell works to my wish list. “Sam has made this new series of perspex works based on creative women throughout history – artists, writers, filmmakers,” says Melanie. Sam is a Paramount Wallace Award winner, and these works are so affordable. Melanie offers a wide range of smaller works by gallery artists such as Gavin Hurley, Martin Poppelwell, Kirstin Carlin and Stanley Palmer. It’s probably good to mention that most galleries allow clients to pay off works over time, too. (EVAN WOODRUFFE/STUDIO ART SUPPLIES) F PN
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1. Penny Howard - Your Love is a Sentry 2. Richard Stratton - Ladies Teapot, Agateware, Photo Samuel Hartnett 3. Sam Mitchell - Anne Hambett, 1915-1993
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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
ARTS + CULTURE
@ OREX
Group exhibition - Abstrakt 3 -21 December. Opening Tuesday 3 December 5.30pm – 7.30pm Strictly speaking, the word abstract means to separate or withdraw something from something else, to separate from reality, to abstract oneself, but it can also mean something not concrete; free from representational qualities, even free from conscious thought. The term can also be applied to art that is object, figure or landscape-based where forms have been simplified or schematised. Further, it is applied to art that uses forms, such as geometric shapes and gestural marks, which are said to have no source at all in an external visual reality, as if such a thing is possible. Some artists have preferred terms such as concrete or non-objective art, but in practice the word abstract is used across the board and the distinction between the various forms of expression is not always obvious. Abstract art was often seen as carrying a moral dimension, in that it could be seen to stand for virtues such as order, purity and simplicity, but since its beginnings abstract art has formed a central stream of modern art encompassing many different forms of expression. Represented artists: Richard Adams, Kathy Barber, Philippa Blair, Matthew Browne, Tony Lane, Dylan Lind, Richard McWhannell, Prakash Patel, Viseio Siasau, Glen Wolfgramm. F PN OREX, 15 Putuki Street, T: 09 378 0588, www.orexart.co.nz
@ WHITESPACE Mishmash, a fabulous collection of work by all our Whitespace artists. Showing 24 November - 24 December. Including new carryalls by Lauren Lysaght, celebrating Ponsonby, Franklin and K’Roads. Lauren is one of New Zealand’s foremost social conscience artists and has exhibited extensively in New Zealand and internationally since the early 1980s. Lauren Lysaght is in the prime of her art career and is committed to pushing boundaries in her art at every opportunity.
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1. Kathy Barber: Unspoken 2. Tony Lane: Innocent 3. Philippa Blair: Thaw (diptych)
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Lauren was the Gold Medal Award Winner of the Art Addiction Annual Exhibition in Venice, Italy and has been awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council Grant and Creative New Zealand funding. Her work is held in numerous private and public collections including Te Papa Tongarewa and the Chartwell Collection. F PN Whitespace is open by appointment only from 25 December - 26 January. WHITESPACE, 20 Monmouth Street, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz
abstrakt
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26 NOVEMBER – 24 DECEMBER, 2019
Mishmash + END OF YEAR CELEBRATION
3-21 December Opens Tues 3 Dec 5.30-7.30pm 15 putiki street, arch hill open tue-sat, 09 3780588
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
WEDNESDAY 4 DECEMBER, 5PM - 7PM
whitespace.co.nz 20 monmouth st, grey lynn, auckland open tues–fri 11-5pm, sat 11am-4pm
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Anna Kendrick stars in Noelle, a Disney+ Original
ARTS + CULTURE
ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY, CHRISTMAS 2019 Advent is the season of waiting and preparation for Christmas and begins on Sunday 1 December. When you come to Advent services at St Matthew’s, you will find no ‘Christmas carols’ but Advent music and carols which emphasise the longing of the people of God for the coming of God amongst them. This year we focus on prophets – who speaks the ‘truth’ and how do we discern who to listen to, starting with the prophet Isaiah. On Sunday 15 December at 8pm we get a taste of Christmas with our service of Christmas readings and carols. The St Matthew’s Voices will sing and bubbles and strawberries will follow. This service is hosted jointly with the Auckland Rainbow Community Church. Then we get to Christmas! Christmas Eve, Tuesday 24 December: 7pm Nativity Service for Children – Christmas carols and telling of the Christmas story. 9.30pm Music with a brass band. 10.30pm Carols for Christmas – a singalong and a few readings/poems. 11.30pm Midnight Mass – the first eucharist (communion service) of Christmas; music from the St Matthew’s Voices with Paul Chan on the organ. The preacher will be Helen Jacobi. Christmas Day, Wednesday 25 December: 10am Christmas Sung Eucharist – a Christmas service with communion, carols, a children’s talk, and music from the St Matthew’s Voices and Paul Chan on the organ. The preacher will be Cate Thorn. ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY, Cnr of Wellesley and Hobson Streets, www.stmatthews.nz
Summer Streaming Guide New Zealanders have a huge choice of OnDemand streaming services including free streaming sites like HeiHei for kids, TVNZ OnDemand, TV3 and M-aori TV OnDemand. With pay to view services including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Neon, Lightbox and the recently released Disney+, the catalogue of great viewing options is almost endless. HEIHEI Fanimals is full of stories about New Zealand kids and their animals – lots of fun for all ages and interests. Speak M-aori for Kids is a fun, animated show that helps all ages learn the basics of Te Reo. DISNEY+ Noelle – Anna Kendrick stars in a goofy, feel-good Christmas movie. While not the best Christmas movie ever, it has all the Santa magic intact and Anna Kendrick sings a few notes. AMAZON PRIME Fortitude – Binge–worthy crime drama against a backdrop of icy Scandanavian beauty. A series with eccentric charm and big budget scope. Good Omen – The brilliance of Neil Gaiman combined with the appeal of Matt Smith. It’s an irreverent, quirky and fun comedy where two unlikely friends try to save Earth. NETFLIX The Good Place – If you were ever a Cheers fan then you will love Ted Dansen playing opposite a very real Kristen Bell who plays Eleanor Shellstrop, a less than good person who wakes up in the ‘good place’ after an embarrassing death.
Christmas @ St Matthew-in-the-City Christmas Eve: 24th December 7pm 9.30pm 10.30pm 11.30pm
Nativity Service for Children Brass Band Music Carols for Christmas Midnight Mass
Christmas Day: 25th December 10am Christmas Sung Eucharist Cnr of Wellesley & Hobson Streets stmatthews.nz
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The End of the F***ing World Season 1 is a refreshing view of the world through the eyes of 17-year-old misfits. Season 2 takes things even further as the characters are revealed in greater depth with their dark humour carrying a narrative on love and trauma. NEON Big Little Lies – Season 2 is just as rewarding a Season 1, especially with Meryl Streep adding extra tension and drama in the second series. Binge worthy and ultimately uplifting. LIGHTBOX Top of the Lake – Season 1. The incredible Jane Campion brings tension and humanity to a mystery set in a small South Island, New Zealand town. A cast including Elisabeth Moss and Holly Hunter make this captivating. PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)
ARTS + CULTURE
Arts – school holiday programme Lake House Arts Centre on Fred Thomas Drive is one of the most accessible and successful art centres in the Auckland Region. Just a 10 minute drive from Ponsonby (and a two minute walk from Akoranga Bus Terminal) with free parking on site, a cafe open seven days, New Zealand art gift shops and Artists in Residence found in a beautiful heritage building facility, Lake House Arts is the complete arts experience. 1. Hitting the Boards with Dean Trembath 13+ years This is an opportunity to work with one of our popular illustration tutors, Dean Trembath. This five day community art course is aimed at teens to create an illustration of someone in the ‘community’. this could be whanau, self portrait, friends, mentors, etc. Monday 13 January - Friday 17 January. 2. Teens Panel Carving with Natanahira Pona 14+ years Learn from a master carver about Maori designs and carving tools and techniques to create beautiful patterns on a wooden panel. Monday 13 January - Thursday 16 January. 3. Teens Make & Print a Tote Bag (2 Day Course) with Val Cuthbert 12+ years Make a tote bag from pre-cut calico and print your very own lino design on to it. Monday 20 January - Tuesday 21 January. 4. At The Beach! with Dee Roberts 6-10 years Sketch from beach photos and learn how to wash and build up paint for a realistic picture. Monday 20 January. 5. Summer Holiday Hat with Trina Smith 6-12 years Create a colourful and quirky 3D hat with all the things that you love do in the summer holidays! Use hand painted papers and mixed media to make something personal and cool to wear! Monday 20 January.
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6. Underwater Self Portrait with Trina Smith 6-12 years Look at the style of artist David Hockney and create an underwater summer scene of you enjoying the summer holidays. Exploring a diverse array of art techniques. Tuesday 21 January. 7. Under The Sea Batik with Trina Smith 6-12 years Learn the techniques of batik and use them in your own underwater scene. Wednesday 22 January. 8. Paper Mache Wacky Fish with Trina Smith 6-12 years Learn the techniques of paper mache to make a wacky fish of your design. Thursday 23 January. 9. New Zealand Bush Diorama with Trina Smith 6-12 years Learn about the quirky, cool style of French post impressionist artist Henri Rousseau, where exotic creatures peer out from fabulous foliage. Use mixed media to paint and draw native New Zealand foliage and embellish your magical box. Friday 24 January. 10. Clay Creations with Susan Browne 7+ years Have fun learning about different clay techniques through clay creations. Wacky Bird Feeder 7+ yrs. Monday 20 January. Milk Carton House 7+ yrs. Tuesday 21 January. Dragons & Dinosaurs 7+ yrs. Wednesday 22 January. Pinch & Coil Animal 7+ yrs. Thursday 23 January. Sea Creature Bowl 7+ yrs. Friday 24 January. To book a holiday programme you must register and log in on our website. If you have any questions, please call us.
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37 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, T: 09 486 4877, www.lakehousearts.org.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
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Horoscopes: Miss Pearl Neclis – what your stars hold for December
Aquarius (the Water Carrier) 21 January - 19 February You have the knowledge and now you just need to find the time to use it. The gift you have could allow you to do anything you want. You have good problem-solving skills that will benefit anyone who needs your help.
Pisces (the Fishes) 20 February - 20 March Trying to keep calm when you’re worrying about money isn’t doing you any good. Try talking to someone about what’s going on. You have great ambition so try and keep yourself grounded.
Aries (the Ram) 21 March - 20 April You are great at thinking positively and very clear about your goals. Don’t run before you can walk though. Your energy and enthusiasm will have a knock-on affect as you talk to and interact with people. Keep some for yourself though as you don’t want to feel exhausted before you’ve even begun.
Taurus (the Bull) 21 April - 21 May Lots of people like to be around you because you’re energised and raring to go. You have never been a follower, only a leader. If you feel the need to commit to something then you have to follow through on all aspects.
Gemini (the Twins) 22 May - 21 June Don’t start listening to what other people think of you now, there is no point. You are your own person and have been for a long time. Feeling vulnerable is not a feeling that you’re used to or have ever felt before. Claim your power back by showing what you’re capable of.
Cancer (the Crab) 22 June - 22 July Your senses could become overloaded this month as you process all that’s going on around you. Keep doing what you’re doing if it makes you happy. No one at your age has the right to tell you who you must be.
Leo (the Lion) 23 July - 21 August If you feel that you have taken your responsibility too lightly or even ignored it completely, it doesn’t matter as you still have it in you to turn things around for the better. There isn’t any point in reflecting on what could have been. Start looking ahead and not backwards for a change and you might see something positive happening.
Virgo (the Virgin) 22 August - 23 September Intuition can be a great thing if used wisely. However, even the best approach to a problem can go spectacularly wrong if not handled right. If you feel the need to surprise someone with ammunition that can come back to haunt you, make sure you have all the facts and information at your disposal and don’t be surprised by the outcome.
Libra (the Scales) Being associated with someone who can do nothing wrong in everyone’s eyes will benefit you in the long run. Places that have been denied to you in the past will open and welcome you with open arms. Don’t be surprised though if you have to leave a little something of yourself as payment.
Scorpio (the Scorpion) 24 October - 22 November If you feel the need to be by yourself, then that’s what you have to do. Family and friends will understand. At some point though your craving to be with company will envelop you. Go with it as you won’t be judged by anyone except possibly you.
Sagittarius (the Archer) 23 November - 22 December You have to remember that there is not a mould that churns out replicas of yourself to help you out when things get tough. It’s up to you now to realise what works for you and what’s been holding you back.
Capricorn (the Goat) 23 December - 20 January Make sure you pace yourself this month and try to reign in your emotions if you can. If you’re doing too much too soon then pace yourself. You always seem to be in a hurry. Slow down.
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