HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

LOCAL MARKET WRAP WITH CHARLOTTE KOFOED

Sales volume and median sell price momentum continues into October.

As we head into the festive season the greater Ponsonby real estate marketplace continued its cadence from September into October with a healthy 75 completed transactions for the area (Ponsonby, Grey cabinet makers such as Cutshop, and your local hardware store has

Lynn, Herne Bay, Saint Marys Bay, Freemans Bay, and Westmere). Sales volume was also well up on the prior October’s 63 sales, and we continue to see more property stock come to market late in the season as sellers and buyers alike make up for lost time earlier in the year.

As I write (23/11) the market is showing few signs of winding down for Christmas with many vendors still seeking campaigns into December, healthy attendance at open homes, and a strong interest in all property types. Over the preceding weekend, my associate Hamish Kofoed and I conducted eight open homes over two days, meeting over 100 potential buyers across four different properties. We are seeing a real mixture of buyer types; recently returned ex-pats, mums and dads shopping for ex-pat family members who are still away, first/second home buyers, as well as a large number of existing greater Ponsonby residents looking toward their next property. We are replaced with fresh (matching) new ones. Super-clean homes

are also seeing a definite shift ‘across town’ from the Eastern Bays and Remuera as empty nesters, free from the constraints of the school-run, seek an easier lifestyle closer to the city and younger family members already in the area.

This overall activity is helping to consolidate the recent upshift in the median sell price that we have seen in greater Ponsonby. After your stuff out of the house and also start preparation for your

September’s 15% month-on-month median sell price increase to $1.9M, October’s median sell price of $1.96M moves the market very close to the $2.0M mark, despite the increased level of supply compared to previous months.

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR SALE ‘super first home buyers’ who are very active in the $2.0M - $3.5M price bracket and competing for 3-4 bedroom family homes with confidence and conviction. Several aspects can make your property more attractive to these particular buyers when preparing your home for sale over the summer break and can potentially improve the overall success of your campaign. maintenance plantings, manageable lawns, and safe play areas for children are super-appealing to these buyers.

Kitchens – Slightly tired kitchens can often be a deal-breaker for these buyers, and at this price point your competition will often have recently updated kitchens. Worn door fronts, kick plates, loose handles and the like can often be remedied quite economically via good supplies of hinges, handles, and other fixtures to help bring your kitchen up to a presentable standard. Often your friendly house painter can also be a dab hand at sprucing up older wooden doors (Resene Alabaster can do wonders)

Lighting – Lighting is critical in many Ponsonby villas and bungalows that suffer from a less than ideal orientation toward the sun. Compensate for this with sufficient lighting in darker areas to improve the appeal of your home during buyer inspections.

Clean and Dry – Buyers can be strongly discouraged by less than clean kitchens, toilet areas, bathrooms and walls, especially with un-renovated/tired properties. Dry down and ventilate all wet areas before open homes and make sure recently used towels keep buyers engaged and make their visit more pleasurable.

Minimise – Decluttering your home allows buyers to better visualise how they can live in the property and increases the feeling of space and simplicity. Storage King Richmond Road has some great rates for temporary storage and is a great way to get In the November issue I talked about the increased number of

next move.

As a part of my service, all of my homes are adorned with a fresh set of New Zealand made luxury candles from Kas Shera at Kasbah – kasbahdesign.co.nz (French Vanilla is my favourite) as well as fresh flowers from Leon Reynolds at Enchanted Rose Flowers on Jervois Road – enchantedrose.co.nz. If you would like advice on preparing your home for sale over the summer, please call me for a chat.

Here’s my top five:

Gardens – Younger demographic professional couples are increasingly time poor. A well-landscaped garden with low 2020 has been a tough year for many of us. Take care over the festive season and holiday break and if you are able, take some time to relax and enjoy time with those closest to you. Thank you for reading. Merry Christmas!  PN

CHARLOTTE KOFOED, M: 021 241 9394, T: 09 353 1220, www.ckre.co.nz, E: charlotte.kofoed@nzsir.com

Properties Sold Average Sell Price Median Sell Price October 2020 75 $2,237,152 $1,960,000 September 2020 73 $1,910,418 $1,900,000 October 2019 63 $1,801,992 $1,620,000

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AUCKLAND’S WESTERN CITY-FRINGE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MARKET CONTINUES TO DEFY HISTORICAL TRENDS

Historic residential property sales trends in Auckland city’s western fringe continue to be completely re-written as a result of the Covid-19 economy according to latest marketing data compiled by a leading Ponsonby real estate professional.

Bayleys Ponsonby salesperson Blair Haddow said that traditionally over the past decades property listing volumes in and around Ponsonby, Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, and Grey Lynn, had slowed down in the lead up to Christmas with vendors preferring to personally focus on the festive season and ensuing New Year holiday period flowing through until after Waitangi Day and Auckland Anniversary Day in February.

“This year though, that trend has completely gone out the window,” said Blair Haddow, who has just taken on two new listings with instructions to sell before Christmas.

The first of Blair Haddow’s latest listings is 3/6 Curran Street, Herne Bay – a totally modernised and renovated three-level 1980s townhouse with three bedrooms/two bathrooms, a study nook, and decks offering magnificent views of the Waitemata Harbour. The property is going up for auction on December 9.

Meanwhile, the second trend-bucking property Blair Haddow is marketing for sale is a three bedroom, two bathroom villa at 71 Summer Street, Ponsonby. The home, which has a loft space primed for conversion into a new living area as well as a garage and adjacent offstreet parking and a swimming pool, goes up for auction on December 15 unless it sells prior to an offer the owner is prepared to accept.

“It’s simply an indication of how ‘hot’ the market is at the moment,” said Blair. “The sales and listing stats simply speak for themselves. Well marketed and appropriately priced stock is literally flying out the door faster than we’ve ever seen before.”

Since the November edition of Ponsonby News, Blair Haddow’s sales sheet has further ballooned out to encompass: bedroom, three bathroom home with three living areas and stunning views of Auckland’s CBD, Westhaven Marina, and the inner harbour, which sold for in the region of $6.4million. bedroom villa on an avenue corner site with master suite, dual living areas, pool and outdoor entertaining area which sold prior to auction for $4.35million. 19 Chamberlain Street, Grey Lynn. A beautifully renovated twolevel family dwelling with five double bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three living spaces, including a teenagers’ retreat, which sold under the auctioneer’s hammer for $3.55million.

20 Barrington Road, Grey Lynn. A sophisticated boutique townhouse with open plan living, supersized high spec kitchen, master suite, outdoor spaces with city and sunset views plus internal garage, which sold at auction recently for $2.09million.

16 Wellpark Avenue, Grey Lynn. A substantial remodeled four bedroom villa with open plan rear living hub flowing to covered deck, in-ground swimming pool and private back yard opening directly onto the little-known Francis Reserve. It sold at auction for $3.81million.

Blair said the frenetic activity being generated in the current wave of residential property sales across Ponsonby, Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, and Grey Lynn, took him back to 2003 when, as a novice property entrepreneur, he sold his own private ‘do-up project’ at 16 Sheehan Street for what was at the time Ponsonby’s first $million-plus villa renovation. He not only project managed the renovation, but worked extensively on the process, painting both the inside and exterior of the residence. Interestingly, the property last sold at the beginning of 2018 for $2.7million.

“It just goes to show that over the long-term - in this case 17 years – house prices in this area have always risen,” he said.

Blair forecasts that the pattern of historic real estate sales trends being ‘thrown out the window’ as a result of Covid-19’s impact on the

25 Hackett Street, St Marys Bay. A completely transformed five

77 Albany Road, Herne Bay. An architecturally re-imagined four economy will continue on into 2021. “Traditionally, the property market is relatively passive through to the second week in February when the bulk of the population comes back from their beach or bach holidays,” he said.

“Next year, watch out for that time frame to come forward into the third week of January when pent-up purchaser demand will be anxious to kick the year off early in the hope of being ahead of the pack,” he added.  PN

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LEYS INSTITUTE: ONE YEAR SINCE CLOSURE

It’s nearly a year since the sudden shock closure of the Leys Institute Library and Gymnasium, due to council concerns around earthquake regulations.

The local community was blindsided and quickly organised to advocate for the buildings’ upgrading and reopening. A public protest outside the library in late February drew a crowd of around 150, all demanding that the buildings be speedily restored. Local Board chairperson Richard Northey spoke, promising to listen to the community’s wishes.

Friends of Leys Institute was established at that demonstration, with 125 people signing up as members on the spot. The membership has steadily grown month by month, and now numbers over 200. Friends of Leys Institute members have advocated for the buildings directly to the Local Board and Councillor Pippa Coom, and via submissions to Auckland Council and Local Board budgets and plans. Letters of support and articles on the Leys have been printed in every Ponsonby News this year.

Following a council report recommending strengthening of the buildings, Waitemata Local Board at its September meeting unanimously stated its support for the Leys Institute to be upgraded, and for library services to return. It also recommended selling property the council owns, that came from the Leys bequest in 1964, along with other property controlled by the Board, with the funds going to the Leys’ strengthening works. Board Chairperson Richard Northey appeared before the November meeting of the council Finance and Property Committee to advocate for the Leys Institute to be restored, as soon as practical, in the next Long Term Plan.

So what happens now?

The next Council Long Term Plan (10 year plan) is due in 2021. According to council officials, the indicative business case for the Leys will be considered alongside others. Due to Covid 19, restrictions on budgets for the next few years are likely, so consideration of alternative ways of funding is being focussed on.

So, in principle, the buildings will be upgraded, but in practice, we don’t know when funds will be available. When it comes time for submissions to the 2021 Council Long Term Plan, please be ready to make a submission advocating for funds to be promptly allocated to the Leys Institute.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of Friends of Institute can email co-ordinator Helen Geary at heleng@maxnet.co.nz, and follow the Friends of Leys Institute Facebook page.  PN

The St Mary’s Bay Association pushes for second harbour crossing.

The recent failure of the Auckland Harbour Bridge because of an accident in high winds has fired up St Mary’s Bay Association chairman, David Abbott, over the delay in planning for a second harbour crossing.

“All talk, no action,” was his cry, in a recent full page New Zealand Herald article and in his report to the AGM of the St Mary’s Association. has led to an agreement with Council to separate stormwater from the wastewater network. With stormwater removed, regular overflows from the wastewater network will end. All properties in St Mary’s Bay have been checked to see if they are separated to the street. Separation work will start mid-2021. This project will help bring safe swimming back to our inner city beaches. The bonus for locals whose properties are not yet separated is that Council will pay.

As Abbott told Ponsonby News, “Auckland and the nation desperately need the government to fast track the decision on an alternative to the vulnerable Auckland Harbour Bridge, which in addition to cars and trucks also carries communications and water infrastructure to the North Shore. Since 1988 there have been eight studies investigating options for an additional harbour crossing, yet we understand that NZ Transport Agency believe this may not be needed for another 30 years. asked for retention of rear yard setbacks, and for a minimum of 1.2m

“A new crossing has become the victim of one of the longest political filibusters in New Zealand’s history. What else is happening? Soon-to-be-opened Westhaven Village café, bar and restaurant, Cargo, will have room for 299 people inside and up to 700 outside. Following an application for an on and off-liquor licence, the SMBA submitted its concerns about noise, 4am closure, security and parking. The aim is not to oppose the licence but to modify the conditions.

The SMBA has put a proposal to the Waitemata Local Board to build a pathway linking the Ring Tce steps and the park pathway. This is a well-used route which becomes muddy in winter.

“New Zealanders are looking to our new government for action – and high on its list of infrastructure priorities should be a tunnel under Auckland harbour;” the SMBA supported their chairman’s point of view at the recent AGM.

Future of the Leys The association also strongly supports restoration of Leys Institute library. And suddenly, the future of this local landmark is looking brighter with the adoption by the Waitemata Local Board of a plan to support seismic upgrade and heritage preservation of the library and gymnasium, plus a commitment to retain and extend library services. SMBA member Helen Geary is doing a great job for the Friends of Leys, of which I recently became the 200th member. association. She will be missed.

Ponsonby News strongly supports the St Mary’s Association resolve to get the 114-year-old Leys quickly back to library status.

Cleaner local beaches Poor water quality in St Mary’s Bay/Westhaven and local beaches is due in large part to overflows from our 100 plus year old combined sewage and wastewater system. Persistent lobbying by the St Mary’s Both St Mary’s Bay and Herne Bay residents are seeking an amendment to the Unitary Plan, called Plan Change 26. In essence, they are concerned about the generally small size of sections in St Mary’s Bay and the closeness of structures to boundaries. They have between buildings to allow for repairs and maintenance on side walls. It is particularly important to get the second aspect right. Narrow side yards are a feature of the old suburbs. This request ensures that existing arrangements are not made worse.

The association congratulated long time SMBA stalwart, John Hill, on his Good Citizen Award received from the Waitemata Local Board.

The association honoured long time committee member, Wendy Moffett, who retired after 15 years sterling service to her local Bay Association and neighbouring Herne Bay Residents Association

Ponsonby News congratulates St Mary’s Bay Association for its good community work, and its desire to protect the amenity values residents love. (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

For more information, or to join, contact David Abbott, E: dabbott@xtra.co.nz

JERVOIS & LAWRENCE SHOW APARTMENT NOW READY FOR VIEWING

When the scaffolding sheathing on the new luxury Herne Bay apartment 'Jervois & Lawrence' is removed soon, it is predicted people will be surprised by just how advanced the build is.

Bayleys agent Peter Tanner, who is marketing the property with Kirsten Bishop, says, “we are excited to announce the first completed show apartment is open for viewing.” Peter says its envisaged construction will be completed around early February next year which could see first residents move in late Q1 or early Q2 2021. “There are very few projects in this area at the moment that are going to be completed in the time frame that this is,” he says.

The 28-dwelling development by Synergy Development Group located on the ridgeline on the corner of Jervois Road and Lawrence Street is already more than half sold. Its one-bedroom apartments have sold out and three of the four penthouses and sub-penthouses have already been purchased. However, there is a good range of two and three-bedroom apartments still available, some of which also come with a study or media room.

Undoubtedly a significant factor driving sales to date is the fact that until now, premium quality, low-maintenance living options have been in short supply in prestigious Herne Bay, apart from a couple of ‘80s tower blocks.

Kirsten says a significant number of existing buyers are those who’ve lived in and loved the area but want to downsize or simplify. “People, including those from other areas, are also being attracted by by the combination of views and convenience.”

Northern apartments enjoy a spectacular outlook over the Waitemata Harbour. Southern-facing apartments enjoy an urban aspect with views of the Sky Tower, the city and of Mt Eden.

The delights of Herne Bay and Ponsonby are just down the road with the central city within walking distance. There’s easy motorway access nearby heading north, south and west. Another huge drawcard is the exacting quality of the development with an elegantly timeless stone façade designed by Leuschke Group Architects. Its central atrium delivering light and air flow looks down onto a Japanese garden.

Interior design by Stewart Harris of Macintosh Harris showcases beautiful herringbone wooden floors. Italian made Arcliena kitchens boast Gaggenau appliances. Bathrooms have Villeroy & Boche porcelain and Hansgrohe tapware.

Kirsten says discerning buyers range from executive couples and professional singles to retirees.

“They all agree there is nothing else quite like this one-of-a-kind, very special development.”

The complex is pet friendly, subject to body corporate approval. Pricing includes basement car parking and storage lockers and each residence comes with one to two designated car parks future proofed with outlets for powering electric vehicles.

The Jervois & Lawrence display suite across the road from the apartments is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11:30am - 1:30pm. at 218 Jervois Road, Herne Bay. The completed show apartment is open for viewing by private appointments only.

For sale: From $1.69 million including car parking.

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The new colour variants of refined Anthracite Matt or a two-tone contrast of glossy white inside and Anthracite Matt outside lend the above-counter basins an extra layer of individuality and class.

2. Dornbacht Meta by Sieger Design is synonymous with contemporary minimalism. With this tapware series, Dornbracht has perfected and enriched this principle, using a range of surface finishes, enabling Meta to demonstrate its flexibility, stylishness and progressiveness – all while remaining true to its own core values.

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5. CRISTINA’s indoor/outdoor shower series is simple, extremely elegant and functional, ideal for ultimate relaxation by the pool or in the garden. The open-air product range also fits perfectly in modern interiors, minimal industrial and spa areas.

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CATALISE ED HEALTHY HOMES STANDARDS

The next Healthy Homes Standards hurdle is fast approaching, and the deadline is just six months away. It’s time to ensure you are compliant and are ready for the changes.

First things first, here are the key compliance dates: 1 December 2020 – Most tenancy agreements need to include a statement of compliance (a Healthy Homes assessment).

1 July 2021 – All rental properties must comply with the Healthy Homes Standards requirements within 90 days of a new or renewed the route of self-assessing, there are some useful calculators online

tenancy agreement. After the assessment, what comes next? identified as needed remedial work. Once an assessment is done,

1 July 2024 – All rental properties must fully comply with the Healthy Homes standards.

There are three assessment options for owners; a self-assessment, a low-cost provider with a maintenance arm, or getting an assessment from an impartial provider who provides a Healthy Homes report. Property owners should kick this off as soon as possible; getting

Catalise want their owners to be as involved as they wish to be. This is not a one-size fits all situation and each property should be treated individually. Good property managers work hard and assist at finding the best solution, not just the ‘compliant’ solution, for each home. What are the benefits of complying early?

Healthy Homes Standards – a breakdown Here are the key things that need to be checked and eventually actioned for all New Zealand residential rental properties: • Bathroom ventilation – Mechanical ventilation is mandatory • Kitchen ventilation – Mechanical ventilation is mandatory • Ground cover – Mandatory when there is a sub floor • Insulation – Stricter criteria apply • Draught stopping – Windows and doors should be airtight • Drainage – Running well

Can owners self-assess? It is a time-consuming and complicated document to complete, and doing it wrong could result in fines due to errors and non-compliance. Owners should make sure they are very familiar with what is required, as details are too complex to discuss in this article. If owners choose for heating, insulation and ventilation, and Tenancy Services has provided an example statement.

Getting compliant The next step after the assessment is getting fully compliant in areas property managers can have their trusted team of tradesmen making sure each property is up to scratch and Healthy Homes Certified.

there will become a sprint the closer we get to 1st July 2021 and it is expected demand and price will escalate making it harder and more expensive to get the job completed in time.

• Fixed heating – Mandatory in living area A well-insulated, dry, warm house are desirable attributes for the care and longevity of a rental property and improve the asset value.

Catalise believe it is important for tenants to live in a healthy environment, creating long term tenancies saving property owners in letting fees, marketing, and tenancy downtime. Once a property is fully compliant it can be promoted as “Healthy Homes Certified”, making it a more attractive rental property with better returns. Everyone benefits.  PN

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FOR SALE: FOUR ON SURREY

This is the very essence of sophisticated inner city living... small in number... spacious in design, FOUR on SURREY is about living local in a boutique development in sought-after Grey Lynn.

This luxury development comprises four residences; two very spacious four bedroom plus media room townhouses with gardens, and two premium three bedroom penthouses.  PN

Any questions? Please call Carl Madsen on 021 953 152 or email c.madsen@barfoot.co.nz

PONSONBY WELCOMES BACK CHERYL REGAN

Continuing a decade-long career in real estate that’s seen her facilitate many successful sales across the city harbour suburbs, Cheryl Regan’s move to Bayleys Ponsonby is a natural fit in more ways than one.

Returning to the neighbourhood which attracted her to New Zealand more than three decades ago, this Canadian native recalls spending summer evenings walking her silky terrier down the Ponsonby strip.

“Ponsonby is such a vibrant community, continually evolving while embracing its colourful heritage and the opportunity to assist a mix of business owners, families and professionals to enhance their lifestyle makes me extremely excited,” she says. Backed by an impressive business acumen which has seen her flex a creative aptitude for communication and her instantly likeable demeanor, it’s evident Cheryl has worn many corporate hats. “However, all roads have led me to real estate,” Cheryl says when musing the ways her successful e-training business has prepared her for the dynamic demands of the residential market place. “Early adoption of digital technologies and a client-centric focus has ensured my approach to real estate has matured with the times, and I take great pride forging rewarding and long-lasting business relationships,” she adds. Though it just might be Cheryl’s spirit that’s her greatest asset. One valuable life lesson stayed with her through adulthood – a concept demonstrated in everything she does, from her attitude through to her signature graphic. “I learned from a brilliant woman when I was a young skier; she was a gold medal winner at the Olympics, she taught me that passion, vision and action are not mutually exclusive in the quest for success. I asked her why she was the best, she replied not, another woman was the best athlete, but while she possessed the vision and the willingness to work, she lacked the passion,” Cheryl says. “Another she said, had the passion and the vision but lacked the action - this idea of a vision born from passion and achieved through hard work has become a constant throughout my life and a rewarding

business philosophy.” In moving from being a cleaner on aeroplanes to becoming the director of an airline Cheryl continues to win the business with a natural grace and charm. Closely aligned with the Westhaven Rotary Club, Leukemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand, and Make-a-Wish New Zealand, Cheryl is community-minded and big-picture oriented, determined to offer real estate representation with heart, substance and a track record of results.

“I am focussed on the outcome that achieves the goal for my clients, working collaboratively to attract the best buyer for each property

results in an optimal value,” she says. “I am thrilled to join Bayleys Ponsonby and the wider community just in time for what is sure to be a rewarding summer for those entering the local property market,” she adds excitedly.  PN

CHERYL REGAN, M: 021 772 583, T: 09 520 8888 E: cheryl.regan@bayleys.co.nz

JOHN ELLIOTT: THE WESTERN SPRINGS FOREST CHAIN SAW MASSACRE

Killing the Western Springs Forest - The Waitemata Local Board decides 4-3 to demolish all 200 pines.

This decision makes me angry on so many fronts, but I don’t think it’s the end of the road yet. Five years ago when discussions first began, we were told many of the trees were old and dangerous, and that they all needed felling. We now know that was just not true. There are just 22 trees rated as vulnerable to falling over in a storm, and only two have fallen in the last two years.

The council closed the forest paths to walkers, and sought ‘expert’ advice, with an apparently predetermined plan to fell the entire forest. The local board was charged with applying for a resource consent to get permission to chop down every tree.

The council plan was to grow the maturing understorey of mainly natives, and plant further natives to grow a native forest. But the way the plan was to proceed would smash 80% of the developing understorey and leave 30-40 metre trunks lying around preventing much new planting. The road to be built into the forest was deemed insufficient for the task and more cut and fill would be needed, something Geotech experts would need to re-assess.

Those unresolved difficulties meant the end of my support.

I agreed that, if many of the trees were dangerous and had reached the end of their natural life, maybe they should come down. After volunteering on Tiritiri Matangi Island’s restoration, where 300,000 natives were planted, I just adored the returning dawn chorus. The sound of kokako in a dawn chorus is bone shiveringly beautiful.

Could that happen in an inner city sanctuary? I thought so, and still hope it could one day.

In the last five years the whole world has changed, and it’s not just Covid. Many people were angry when the previous National Government cut protection of groups of trees out of the Resource Management Act (the RMA). Council cried they could not stop developers on private land from cutting down trees to enable a few more million dollar apartments. Exotics, natives - they didn’t care - including recently in Canal Road, Avondale. Many local boards are now coping with loss of tree cover in their wards. It’s not just Waitemata. And Aucklanders are angry. Trees are a vital amenity for their shade, their carbon sequestering, their bird, and a myriad of other animals habitat. And now council plans to spend about two million hard earned dollars (the council we are told is 1.4 billion dollars in the red) to cut down THEIR OWN trees; vandalism, and poor spending! Surely money needs prioritising now more than ever.

I, and many others, are desperate to save the Leys Institute Library from demolition or sale to a developer. Why couldn’t those millions of dollars go towards saving Leys?

My understanding is that a proposed plan B for a staged felling of the forest never got discussed because no genuine attempt was made by council officers to have a proper consultation with interested locals. A proposal which would selectively manage the forest, felling dangerous trees when necessary, and managing the rest; chop a few widow makers off to save them falling on someone’s head.

I also understand that Ngati Whatua’s opinion in favour of felling was not set in concrete, and that they were open to looking at other options, particularly the option that never came to pass.

So here we are almost at the end of 2020. The city is broke, everyone is sick of Auckland losing vital tree coverage, and a stubborn, powerful and bullying bureaucracy, has continued to push the Waitemata Local Board to use the resource consent and do a chainsaw massacre on the forest, wasting a couple of million dollars of Auckland’s hard earned ratepayer money.

I would urge the four board members who voted to fell the forest, (Chairman Richard Northey, Deputy Chair Kerrin Leoni, Graeme Gunthorp and Julie Sandilands) to pause a minute and just think again, given the changed circumstances in five years. There is very little risk to the public. Put up some appropriate interpretation signs, chop off one widow maker near the track, watch a few other aging pines and save the city maybe several million dollars. Very few of these old trees are particularly senescent and in danger of suddenly falling over.

Just remember, board members, you are there to act for the community that voted you in, not an army of faceless bureaucrats with an agenda which the public does not support.

I guarantee that any one of the four named above who decides on balance they should change their mind and call another vote, will be very warmly thanked for their courage by the Waitemata community and, probably, every Auckland Local Board. It could well assure them of re-election. (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

STUDYboy 3 Crate $1146

BOOKboy 2 Bay 2 High $1189

Shop online at www.meluka.co.nz

BOOKboy 1 Bay 4 High $1139 and BOOKboy 1 Bay 3 High $1029

CHESTYboy 1 Bay 5 High $1324

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Underground candles, Eclectic Bath and Shower Oil, Ivy table lamp

ECC’S CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

Luxury gifts for the design lover now in store.

There’s no better place to look for Christmas gifts for friends and family who appreciate design than at ECC. With access to the best international designers, stepping into their showroom is like entering a world of creativity.

The industrial style of Buster + Punch is evident in their new Machined range. The Machined Vase has a solid metal base in brass or steel supporting a delicate mouth-blown glass vase. The Machined Whiskey Set follows that same theme with a metal base paired with refined glasses. The Machined Candelabra appears more delicate and takes long tapper candles.

Puck glassware from Tom Dixon is the latest edition to his giftware range. The collection uses basic forms of geometry, such as cylinders, cones and spheres, with a satisfyingly thick base that’s reminiscent of game pucks. Cocktail glasses, balloon glasses and ice buckets are all available, and come beautifully packaged.

There is a new range of platters, bowls and small tables from Alentes. This artisan studio from Greece uses raw materials, natural colours and architectural forms to sculpt hand-crafted accessories that are textured and unique. All pieces are made from an aggregate of marble, stone and cement.

A small table lamp can also make a beautiful gift. Choose from classic, sculptural or organic styles. The classic CuboLED is a versatile boxshaped lamp ideal for the bedside. For summer, wireless lamps can go where you go. 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.

Gifting an item of USM furniture is a great way to introduce friends or family to this modernist Swiss modular furniture range. Bedside tables are one configuration that make an ideal gift. Complementary credenzas and bookcases can be added in the future with flexible custom configurations.

If you are looking for further inspiration - the ECC showroom is just off Khyber Pass, or shop online.  PN

ECC, 39 Nugent Street, Grafton, T: 09 379 9680, www.ecc.co.nz/store

Machined candelabra, Puck cocktail glasses and ice bucket

Luna bowl, Fossil Organic Mini tray, Muffins candleholder, Footed bowl

Underground candle, Tolomeo lamp, USM bedside cabinet

Buster + Punch Machined collection

JERVOIS & THE 1920’S CLASSIC MEETS 2020 CONTEMPORARY

For Sale: 19 Webber Street, Westmere

Rarely does a unique property like this come on to the market in coveted Coxs Bay.

In a quiet neighbourhood with all the amenities, it’s a short walk to Herne Bay, Grey Lynn, Ponsonby, and a 10-minute drive to the central city.

Perfectly situated for sun, enjoy your upper harbour views and those spanning to the Sky Tower. This is truly an ‘art house’.

As you walk on to the 554m2 property, the classic bungalow reveals a large contemporary addition designed by award-winning architect Steven Lloyd.

The original 1920’s house has been lovingly restored and comprises of two generous bedrooms, a sky-lit bathroom and a bright sunroom, currently used as an office.

There is a large lounge with bay window and a double fireplace leading to the dining room. Everything has been thought of in the renovation of this home, including a trap door to your wine cellar. And there is a seamless transition to the modern glass and burnt larch masterpiece.

The owner has carefully selected everything with a minimalist look and feel, highlighted by sleek lines and custom finishes.

A designer kitchen, featuring slate benches and a Wolf gas stove, visually looks like it is out of a magazine.

Escape to your own upstairs master suite with walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. You will simply love the Italian style shower with skylight and a 100-year-old oak ceiling above. Downstairs there is another bedroom, perfect to use as a second living area or for your guests, with its own ‘spa-style’ bathroom in this wing of the house. The “hidden” laundry helps too.

Other special features to this property, include two outdoor rooms, a beautifully landscaped garden, putting green and playhouse.

For further information - call Amy Wildman.  PN

BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

After spending several years modernising their lovely family home at Cheltenham Beach with beautiful results, the owners now wanted a new kitchen to match.

Through a friend they found kitchen designer Jane Fergusson from Takapuna-based Kitchens By Design, and have been delighted by the transformation she has achieved.

Could you tell us a little about you and your family, and also about your home – in particular, describe the existing kitchen before the makeover? We are a family of four and are lucky enough to live in a very special part of the world, Cheltenham Beach. My kitchen was about 15 years old and while the materials were still fashionable, such as marble and stainless, it wasn’t a well-functioning kitchen in terms of storage and design.

How did you come across Kitchens By Design, and why did you choose them to design your new kitchen? They were recommended by a friend. I actually started the process with another kitchen designer, but wasn’t satisfied following the initial consultation and drawings, as I felt they were very happy to draw up what I wanted without actually making any recommendations, or suggesting alternatives. As I am not a kitchen designer, I really did need someone to take the lead and be confident enough to tell me if my ideas might not actually be the right way to go.

What was your brief to the designer, and how did it evolve? My brief to Jane was that I wanted a sophisticated kitchen that stayed pretty much in the same footprint, but that allowed for ease of access to kitchen items, with good pantry storage, space for a new double fridge, and one that was going to last the distance by using classic yet practical materials. For example, I love the look of marble – however it was suggested that I instead use Dekton, which is a man-made blend of natural quartz stone, porcelain and glass, and is super strong.

How did the designer translate your brief – and was it what you expected? Jane was perfect in every way. She listened to my ideas and understood my vision. She was very good at listening to suggestions and re-directing me if she felt, due to her vast experience, that perhaps a move in another direction might achieve a better outcome.

What were some of the most enjoyable and memorable moments of the process? Meeting Jane at the kitchen factory and seeing it all coming together was amazing and a huge relief to see it was looking exactly as we had planned. There were never any surprises, as everything was explained clearly every step of the way. What are your favourite parts of your new kitchen? I love all the wonderful storage and ease of access to everything. Also, the way the materials all work together to reflect my personality and taste is wonderful.

What would be your advice to anyone who’s thinking of having a new kitchen designed? Whilst the process is reasonably long, it is worth it in the end, as every day you get so much pleasure from being in a gorgeous, welldesigned kitchen.

How did you find the experience of working with Kitchens By Design? As well as meeting at their showroom in Takapuna, Jane arranged regular after-hours, on-site consultations to fit in with our busy working lives and to ensure my husband could also be part of the consultations and design process.

Nothing was ever too annoying, and no question was too silly to ask. Jane also liaised with all the contractors when needed and was on site to meet them if I had to be at work. There was a constant calmness throughout the process. Honestly, I was so impressed with Kitchens By Design, and I will be shouting that from the rooftops.

If you thinking about putting in a new kitchen, give team at Kitchens By Design a call, or pop into their showroom at 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna, T: 09 488 7201. And for inspiration, take a look at their website at www.kitchensbydesign.co.nz

Will & Hayley Tiara, Megan, Amy & Benjamin

Amy, Hannah & Benjamin Tash & Colin

@ OUTDOOR CONCEPTS

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OUTDOOR CONCEPTS, 77 The Strand, T: 0800 266 206, www.outdoorconcepts.co.nz

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Ed Cruikshank lives and works in Queenstown where he specialises in the design and creation of outstanding custom furniture. His high quality pieces are designed specifically for each customer and hand-built in New Zealand to last a lifetime.

After a five year training in fine cabinet making and an industrial design degree, Cruikshank headed the Linley design team in London and managed their special projects, one of which brought him to New Zealand in 1999 to design the interior of a beautiful sloop being built in Auckland by Alloy Yachts.

Twenty years later, having set up home in Queenstown in 2002, he has designed all manner of things, including unique and extraordinary custom furniture pieces, a collection of timeless chairs and tables and his devilish Infernorator firepoker and blower for clients in New Zealand and around the globe.

According to one of Ed’s long standing customers, “the quality of Ed’s work and the care and attention he puts into every aspect of the process are a rare thing these days. We love the fact that our furniture was built here in New Zealand, but the thing that stood out for us was the way he and his team seamlessly combined creativity and design expertise with an ability to communicate their ideas so clearly that we knew exactly what to expect before we signed off on the designs. They delivered on time and at the exact budget we agreed and it was a fun and rewarding experience. Most of all we treasure the thought that our family will enjoy it for many years to come.”

With many of Ed’s customers based in Auckland and elsewhere in the North Island, he has decided to create a small and perfectlyformed presence in the heart of Ponsonby working with strategic communications specialist Julien Leys at Pendulum Strategies at historic Letham House on Jervois Road. Ed will be in Ponsonby on a regular basis in 2021 and will be happy to also make special visits if you are looking for anything from a handmade dining table or contemporary-classic leather reading chair to a full interior scheme. He can work with you directly, or alongside your architect or interior designer.

You can contact Ed to arrange an appointment by visiting his website or calling him directly on M: 027 441 3434, www.edcruikshank.co.nz

Custom Designed Hand Made Furniture

Designed in Queenstown

Now available in Ponsonby

www.cruikshank.co.nz

tel: 027 441 3434