PONSONBY NEWS - FEBRUARY 2017

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FEBRUARY 2017

LOCAL IDENTITY WITH A PROUD FAMILY HERITAGE Gerry Hill & Sally James are pictured outside their favourite Italian restaurant, Gusto Italiano

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WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH 041

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032 P30: Craig Watkins, director of Apartmint uses the virtual reality technology they are using to showcase freehold residential apartments; P32: Auckland Pride Parade Ponsonby - Diary Date: Saturday 25 February; P41: Meet Sarasa Shimura (Host & Director) of Tokyo Club, Ponsonby

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FROM THE EDITOR DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD MIKE LEE, COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS COVER STORY - GERRY HILL & SALLY JAMES U3A PONSONBY LANDMARK BUILDINGS NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

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CARS & MOTORING HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN AUCKLAND PRIDE PARADE, PONSONBY EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE FASHION + STYLE ANGELA LASSIG: LETTERS FROM MAUDIE HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL FASHION LOVE LIVING, THINKING & BEING

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JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH SPORTS ON THE SIDELINE FUTURE GENERATION PONSONBY PETS PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS MILLY NOLAN - DESIGNER GIFTS ARTS + CULTURE HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS PONSONBY PINK PAGES

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Martin Leach

PONSONBY NEWS+ is published monthly, excluding January by ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED LIM POSTAL: P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144. www.ponsonbynews.co.nz T: 09 378 8553 or 09 361 3356 Editor/Publisher Associate Publisher & Ad Manager Distribution Manager Advertising Sales Operations Manager Contributing Fashion Editor Contributing Music Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Proof Readers Layout Designer Designer

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Slip, slop, slap. Then swim, slide, or spa? Oh no, Dad’s heading for the diving board – pretend you don’t know him! (He cannonballed, didn’t he?)

See, there’s fun for kids of any age at the idyllic Pt Erin Baths. Isn’t that right, Luca? Share our discoveries – keithandsandy.co.nz

6 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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7

Views, X-factor and Upside 11 Elgin Street, Grey Lynn For Sale by Auction

Here is a rare opportunity to create your dream home and reap big rewards.

A generous Grey Lynn site with stunningly elevated positioning and panoramic north-westerly outlook.

Comfortable and well presented today, with undeniable future upside. Make your move!

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8 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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The Best in the Business 401C Great North Rd, Grey Lynn For Sale by Auction

A residence that represents the next level in apartment style living for those who deserve, demand and desire the very best in this popular market segment.

Incredibly spacious and rare, and finished to the highest of specifications, this property’s floor area is approx. 180m2, capturing day-long, north-facing sun.

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The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

9

LETTERS + EMAILS Cyclists still breaking records Your December correspondent Roger Hawkins claims that spending $200 million on cycle ways in Auckland is "absolutely ridiculous".

Mr Hawkins, I have a few points which I earnestly entreat you to consider.

1. The reason it is so expensive is because it is so long overdue. Have you actually tried biking around Auckland? Most of the time there is simply nowhere to go. If you go on the road you often deal with irate behaviour from motorists. If you go on the footpath you break the law and risk slamming into a pedestrian.

2. Mr Hawkins claims that less than 1% of Auckland's population will ever use the cycleway. How does he figure that? How many cyclists has he actually spoken to?

All the ones I speak to would love to bike to work but simply feel unsafe, and would probably use a dedicated cycleway, thus boosting the user numbers considerably.

Views in Ponsonby News reflect the authors’ and not those of Alchemy Media.

Local Driving Habits Phew! I’ve survived another trip down Richmond Road. Is everyone in Grey Lynn on ‘P’?

It certainly seems so judging by the driving style in the area. The next time an impatient driver pulls out from an intersection in front of me as I travel down Richmond Road - despite the fact that he or she has faced a Give Way or Stop sign - I just might be tempted to raise a finger or two.

I used to drive regularly on the South Circular Road in London. It, too, was busy. But drivers weren’t obsessed with beating other drivers to the next set of traffic lights. In fact when the road was busy, it was common for many drivers to flash their lights indicating they were letting you ‘in’. It made the travel just that much more enjoyable and always resulted in a friendly thank you wave. With this in mind, the other day I flashed my headlights at a driver waiting to join the mainstream traffic, but blow me down instead of taking up on what I thought was a considerate offer, and what must be a reflection of the current driving habits and expectations in the Grey Lynn/Ponsonby area, the driver reversed.

3. He then mentions weather and hills of all things. Huh? What century are you living in Roger? Are you aware that even in fine weather cyclists take a change of clothes and shower at work? Are you aware that electric bikes are becoming more popular thus making hills much easier to navigate?

Slow down drivers and be more patient. It might just make your driving experience a pleasure not a battle. It might also just lessen the chance of you killing someone.

Greg Thomas, Westmere

How many cyclists will use the cycle routes in mid winter, you ask Roger? Probably all the hard-working students and one-income families that can't afford a car. I know the view from inside your upper middle class bubble seems rosy, but please bear in mind that life can get hard and expensive for proles such as myself; biking is simply a much cheaper option to get from A to B.

Have a brilliant festive season, relax and enjoy every day…

Thanks for all your good work throughout the year. The Ponsonby News is a great magazine which is well read by my household and I send a copy of it to others from time to time. Thanks for all your good work throughout the year.

Pam Grant, Ponsonby

Yes, Roger I agree with you on one point - Auckland has major traffic congestion. Maybe part of the answer is encouraging cyclists any way we can. Every time you see a cyclist maybe you could give a friendly toot and even yell out the window "good on ya mate, that's one less car clogging up the roads!"

David Taylor, by email

Filthy Human Waste at Cox's Bay Creek World's most liveable city or third world? You decide.

Cyclists still breaking records - December issue Roger Hawkins expresses dismay at the expenditure of $200 million on cycleways, and delight at the use of '$200,000,000.00' for the effect it creates. Now, let’s focus on the issues and put the investment in context.

Taxpayers are spending $140 million on a single intersection in Mangere (Kirkbride Road and SH20A) and $1.4 billion on the Waterview Connection. At the very least, the 7km Penlink project will cost $200 million.

For $200 million over three years, shared between central and local government, Auckland will benefit from a more connected cycle network across the region that will enhance livability and create better transport options for the whole city. While Mr Hawkins claims that cycleways will be used by less than 1% of people, according to a 2015 study, 60% of Aucklanders say they would cycle if separated cycle facilities were installed.

photography: Robert Wark

And the figures show that this investment is paying dividends. Cycling levels are steadily growing and more than 350,000 Aucklanders now cycle, up by 47,000 on a year earlier.

For every new cyclist, there will be one less car on the road, which will reduce air pollution and congestion. This isn’t speculation, it’s what’s been shown time and again all over the world, in Vancouver, New York, Amsterdam, London, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Having a vision for the city that caters to more than just its cars requires investment to match that vision. Let’s welcome the $200 million as part of building a better city for all.

David Smith, Bike Grey Lynn

69,000 READERS PER MONTH

10 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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FROM THE EDITOR HAPPY NEW YEAR PONSONBY NEWS READERS! ALTHOUGH THE summer weather hasn’t been as nice as it should be, at least New Zealand trumps being in America for many of us.

photography: Gwynne Davenport

A few bee stings this summer is probably connected to the increasing number of bee hives producing succulent honey in our central city. According to the editorial in this issue there are now over 1000 hives in the city. Pollinators are an essential part of our ecosystem and the proposed butterfly farm outside Mitre 10, Grey Lynn will provide a colourful and valuable food source for butterflies, including the iconic Monarch - p18.

There are many locals who do great things for our community.

Our front cover star, who will need no introduction, is one of those people. Gerry Hill has battled away all his life for the underdog, taking his cue from his wharfie union father, Toby Hill - p22.

Anyone make any New Year resolutions? Getting fit and increasing our immunity was one of the team’s shared goals.

A number of people have said they will be going vegetarian this year and will be supporting our local veggie and vegan cafes.

We are fortunate to have three places - namely Big Sur, Kokako and Little Bird nearby.

We are excited that on Saturday 25 February, Ponsonby Road will be THE PLACE to be when the Auckland Pride Parade with its 40 or more floats kicks off at 7.30pm at Tole Street. We predict the parade this year will be a big success - p36.

Meanwhile, the weekend of 18-19 February marks the return of the Heroic Gardening Festival, with some local gardens in our area featured. This worthwhile event is a great fundraiser for Mercy Hospice - p75.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Melissa Paynter and Martin Leach

Lest you forget, Valentine’s Day is looming once again on Tuesday 14 February. This is always the most romantic day of the year, so to avoid disappointment, remember to book a favourite restaurant or grab a bunch of flowers from Here Among the Wild at 28 Jervois Road - p92.

I would like to introduce Melissa Paynter who has recently joined the PN team to sell advertising. Melissa comes from a family of artists. She is lucky enough to have two mothers, one is a designer and the other is in the corporate world. Her dad is a cartoonist and her daughter is currently studying digital design at AUT.

Melissa’s face will be known to many as she has been our advertising graphic designer for almost 10 years.

She also hand delivers PN each month to the CBD, Newton, Newmarket and Victoria Park.

Next issue is our Viva Italia edition, so please let us know if you’d like to advertise. Finally, as it’s a new year can we please remind our readers to support our advertisers, as they support us.

Here’s to a happy, prosperous 2017 for us all.

PN (MARTIN LEACH) F

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PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW TIM BRAY is an award-winning theatre director who this year is celebrating his 25-year anniversary in New Zealand theatre.

What's the best thing about where you live?

Ponsonby. Yes, the gay, bohemian, Maori, Pasifika, actor, musician, poet, eclectic, student filled suburb that I moved into in 1998 has sadly mostly long gone, but the ease of living in an urban village, still with butchers, bakers and candlestick makers, you can’t beat.

Your favourite time of the day?

Depends on the day of the week - home time, weekend brunch, red dusk over the Waitakeres, glowing dawn over Westhaven.

How did your theatre production company begin?

I’d been attending Mary Amoore’s Auckland Youth Theatre since I was 13. I became a teacher and director there as a young actor and it sadly folded at the end of 1990. So I took over the lease of its final premises in early 1991 and started producing, directing and writing shows for children and adults. The space where I started is now home to the Basement Theatre.

Your dream home?

Quite like the one we live in - an 1880 villa that we have slowly done up over the years.

But like the painters on the Harbour Bridge, we need to go back and start painting at the beginning again.

Do you come from a theatrical background?

Loved my childhood! Mum and Dad took me to shows at Mary Amoore’s Central Theatre in Remuera, the Mercury, His Majesty’s, St James, New Independent and Dad was Head of English at St Kentigern College and he directed shows there. Plus they made my younger brother, Jonathan, and I a puppet theatre.

What are you insecure about?

That when I’m insecure I tend to over talk.

What’s on your bucket list?

To buy a bucket which has a handle that lasts longer than a year.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

It would be great to see our shows for children telling New Zealand stories touring further nationally and internationally.

How would you like to be remembered?

Not likely to happen but... "wasn’t he that incredibly wealthy philanthropist who gave away all his money to fabulous causes? And such a spunk in that swimwear fashion spread. And what he did with his hair!"

What do you love about your age?

How one's confidence grows despite the things about oneself that, as a youngster, kept you reserved and unsure.

Something that you really disapprove of?

People who disapprove of me.

Your biggest disappointments?

Imagine if I’d kept at my film career. In 'Chunuk Bair', I played ‘Lofty’ and Karl Urban played ‘Wellington Soldier’.

What happens when we die?

Gone, na-dah, bye-byes. But we’re kept ‘alive’ by other people’s memories of us.

Have you ever seen a ghost?

When I was a teenager at Auckland Youth Theatre we were at the Mercury practising our end of year performance for our families. I looked up and saw a figure sitting in centre of the front row of the circle. I looked away briefly and then back again, and she had gone.

My flat for three years in the 90s in Federal Street (two gorgeous terrace houses behind the City Mission) supposedly had one. I never saw it but numerous flatmates did with the same description. However, this makes a mockery of my answer as to what happens to us after we die, above.

12 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

Something very few people know about you?

I’m now an actor, director, producer and playwright but I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree.

What is your greatest fear?

I’m not great with operations, blood... I have a huge admiration for surgeons, nurses and ambulance staff.

What superpower do you wish you had?

Would love to fly.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Being a hair model.

What cliché do you most hate?

After a death, people say ‘now you can have some closure’.

What gizmo can you simply not live without?

Shoe horn.

Your greatest weakness/indulgence?

Saying yes to things I perhaps don’t want to do.

What is your comfort food?

Sunday roast.

Your dream guest list for a dinner party and why?

Kate Bush - love her music, family members and friends I have lost, family members and friends I still have. Might need a big table.

Travel light or heavy?

I think I travel light until I’m lugging the suitcase on to the check-in scales.

Favorite movie and why?

Star Wars (Episode IV) - I still remember how I felt as a 13 year old watching it for the first PN time. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) F

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29 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland City.

Phone: 09 3700227 Email: ceo@lexusofaucklandcity.co.nz

www.lexusofaucklandcity.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT

New local assets for summer adventures For many Aucklanders summer is a chance to explore locally, rather than head out of town to the beach.

In Waitemata a number of new community attractions were completed just before Christmas that are worth checking out, including a basketball court, three upgraded playgrounds and a new coastal walkway.

Ribbon cutting for the Victoria Park “The Overpass” basketball court

An official opening took place in December for the upgraded Western Park playground which includes three tunnel slides, one an impressive 24m. Children from Freemans Bay kindergarten, who had been watching the development closely while the playground was out of action were among the first to take advantage of the exciting, new play equipment.

The Grey Lynn Park playground (next to the children's paddling pool) was also upgraded and expanded with a new nature-inspired climbing structure and balancing trail. New picnic tables and a drinking fountain were welcome additions to the shady spot under mature trees. Tucked away in Westmere a neighbourhood playground at Tirotai Crescent has also been upgraded, much to the delight of local children.

Another initiative it’s great to see come to fruition this summer is ‘The Boroughs’. A joint project between Spark and Auckland Council which saw basketball courts delivered in four main centres across Auckland. The central court at Victoria Park, named by popular vote 'The Overpass', has been packed daily with ballers since opening. The court is provided with free wi-fi access which is definitely an additional drawcard for those using the courts.

The local board is particularly proud to have opened the Weona-Westmere Coast Walkway in time for summer exercise and adventures. When Westmere was subdivided in the 1920s the promotional material at the time showed a strip of public reserve along Motions Creek described as “thus ensuring equal access to the whole of the sand beaches to every section holder and preserving to the public the fine old Christmas trees, the golden kowhais and the other native flora which so lavishly adorns the waterfront.”

Shale Chambers and Sandra Anderson cutting the ribbon at the Weona-Westmere coastal walkway opening

a boardwalk with views of the Waitemata Harbour. At low tide the walk extends further around the headland and the chance to spot a variety of native birds. Many thanks to those wonderful hardworking volunteers who spent many hours replanting native bush in the area. (PIPPA COOM) F PN

Over time, access was lost and the area became overgrown. The proposal to open up the public coastal reserve and re-establish the coastal forest goes back many decades but more recently led by two locals. With community support the Waitemata Local Board picked up the project in 2011. Shale Chambers as the board’s champion kept the project on track through the very heated public meetings, the resource consent appeals and extensive construction challenges.

Anyone interested in supporting further planting and pest control please contact Stephen Knight-Lenihan at stephen.knight.lenihan@gmail.com or M: 027 449 3646.

If you have visited the new walkway I am confident that you will agree that it has been well worth the effort. The new 1.4km coastal path takes walkers through native bush and on

Contact Pippa Coom, Chair of Waitamata Local Board: pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Opening of the Western Park playground

14 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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Charlotte Kofoed

Stewart Morgan The Science Behind Successful Real Estate Results

Always Going Above and Beyond to Achieve Your Best Result

Charlotte Kofoed

Stewart Morgan BSc (Hons)

M +64 21 241 9394 charlotte.kofoed@sothebysrealty.com

M +64 21 933 305 stewart.morgan@sothebysrealty.com

160 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland

160 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland

PONSONBY, 24 O’Neill Street

4

Live the Life

Floor: 127 sq m (approx) | Land: 303 sq m (more or less)

Looking for a character home and an easy lifestyle? You will be captivated by this modernised, extended Victorian villa, superbly located in the heart of Ponsonby. Sympathetically renovated and extended to protect the old-world charm of the original residence, this four bedroom home provides the modern convenience of contemporary living, with scope to further enhance over time.

Could this be your new home in 2017? Our out of town vendor needs this property sold – see you at the open homes!

AUCTION: 2:00 p.m. Saturday 11 March 2017 On-site at 24 O’Neill Street, Ponsonby (unless sold prior)

Charlotte Kofoed +64 21 241 9394 charlotte.kofoed@sothebysrealty.com

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

Stewart Morgan +64 21 933 305 stewart.morgan@sothebysrealty.com

1

VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/BSA10728

MIKE LEE: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF

Motukorea - Browns Island - Auckland’s forgotten gift rediscovered Motukorea (60 ha), the iconic inner-gulf island, formed by a 10,000 year old extinct volcano, a sight familiar to all ferry users and yachties, was back in the news recently - but for all the wrong reasons.

Before Christmas a wildfire lit by a distressed woman, mysteriously marooned on the island, trying to attract help, got out of control and burnt a substantial part of the island.

Motukorea was purchased by John Logan Campbell and his partner William Brown from the Ngati Tamatera tribe in 1840. Campbell and Brown’s canvas tents, nikau whare and pig run were the modest beginnings of pakeha commercial activities in Tamaki - even before Auckland was founded; the ancestor, if you will, of the Auckland CBD. After Campbell and Brown sold the island (Campbell went to live in Parnell, his home Kilbryde overlooking the sea near present-day Dove Myer Robinson Park) and it passed through a succession of owners. Notably from 1906-1946, the Alison family of the Devonport Steam Ferry Company, at which time it became popular for ferry excursions and picnics. The hulks of some of those old paddle steamers still lay on the seabed on the western side of the island.

Then in 1931 sleepy Browns Island burst into the headlines. The reason: a controversial drainage scheme that would have seen the sewage of virtually the whole city pumped out to the island and after rudimentary treatment, discharged into the Hauraki Gulf.

The scheme was promoted by the Auckland Metropolitan Drainage Board and the Auckland City Council and backed by a host of technical experts. The banner of public opposition was first raised with a petition signed by 173 members of the Tamaki Ratepayers & Residents Association and 50 Waiheke islanders (which must have been most of the island’s population). These early opponents were later joined by recreational boating fraternity - led by the Royal NZ Yacht Squadron. The Second World War slowed the scheme down but officialdom remained determined and with the end of the war in sight planning advanced apace. The scheme’s opponents late in 1944 decided to form a specialised opposition body, ‘the Auckland and Suburban Drainage League’ with a previously unknown businessman Mr D. M. Robinson at its head. To cut a long story short, after 10 years of at times very bitter struggle against the all odds, Robinson and his league won the day. They did so in the end by organising to get Robinson and a team of his supporters elected onto the Metropolitan Drainage Board.

Robinson then as chairman halted the scheme - but after contracts had been signed and the work begun! It is hard for Aucklanders today to appreciate the magnitude of this epic struggle of citizens versus officialdom.

Mr, then Sir, Dove Myer Robinson, ‘Robbie’, famously went on to become six-times mayor of Auckland and the founding chairman of the Auckland Regional Authority (ARA) which later

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

became the ARC. He is still revered as one of Auckland’s greatest civic leaders.

In 1955 his friend Sir Ernest Davis, the brewery magnate and a former mayor of Auckland himself, purchased and gifted Browns Island to - as the certificate of title states - 'the Mayor, councillors and people of Auckland'.

In 1967 the City Council transferred the island’s management to the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park Board. When the Maritime Park was abolished in 1990, the new Department of Conservation inherited management but not apparently the enthusiasm or priorities of the old Maritime Park Board. Auckland City Council paid DOC $15,000 a year to manage the place, which in turn contracted-out a minimum management regime to a private contractor.

In 2014 the government tried to include Motukorea in a Treaty of Waitangi settlement until I reminded the council that the island was owned not by the Crown but (literally) the council and the people of Auckland.

In November 2015 council officers recommended renewing DOC’s contract but Auckland councillors instead supported my amendment that Auckland Council resume direct management of the island.

Regrettably implementation of this decision was continually delayed by council officers throughout 2016 - until the fire that is.

In November, I inspected the island with council regional parks and biosecurity officers.

The damage done was significant, thousands of native skinks burnt and thousands of dollars worth of fencing destroyed, but the evidence of decades of neglect and minimal management was even more dispiriting.

Thankfully the memorial cairn to Sir Ernest and Lady Davis’ great gift (and to Robbie’s great victory) still stands on the northern shore, though forlorn and neglected, their great generosity forgotten and the vision unfulfilled. But it appears the fire provided a sharp lesson for council officers and so did some good after all. Auckland Council will now assume direct management of the island on 2 February. A group of volunteers is being formed to assist in the restoration work. Hopefully the decades of neglect of this marvelous gift are over. Browns Island - Motukorea - must become Auckland’s next PN regional park. (MIKE LEE) F Mike Lee is the Auckland Councillor for Waitemata & Gulf ward, www.mikelee.co.nz

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Thinking Real Estate?

Think Chris Batchelor.

SO LD

32 Herne Bay Road, Herne Bay

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1 Sentinel Road, Herne Bay

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28 Picton Street, Freemans Bay

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

The new buzz around Auckland City There’s always a buzz of constant noise around a big city, and Auckland is no exception - traffic sirens, alarms, cheering at concerts, cruise ships docking, cars revving.

But recently Auckland has had a new buzz - the buzz of bees.

It is estimated that there are now as many as 1000 hives in the city. Each hive houses up to 60,000 bees, not all of whom are flying in and out of hives every day.

The proposed Butterfly Park alongside Mitre 10

There are no council restrictions on keeping bees in the city. The only criterion is ‘no nuisance’. So aren’t the possible thousands of stings a potential nuisance?

Other sources of urban bees are the French Cafe, Lot 23 and the Langham Hotel.

Beezthingz has plans to put hives on six more central city roofs.

Ponsonby News spoke to Julian McCurdy, Managing Director of Beezthingz. They have supplied nearly half of the bees in Auckland. Julian’s company leases or sells hives, and professional beekeepers contract to look after them, at least until such time as residents can look after them themselves.

There are 10,000 bees on the roof of the Auckland Town Hall. These hives were gifted to the city by the National Beekeepers Association in 2010.

There are few nuisance issues around hives in the city, Julian told Ponsonby News. So long as you keep hives out of a direct line to a neighbour’s deck or outside light, keep them at least 1.5m inside your boundary there should be few problems. Bees in the city thrive, says Julian, because there is plenty of food, and each hive produces up to 30kg of honey each year. Suggestions of bare feet and bee stings never entered the heads of those of us brought up with bees all around us. It is their relative absence in recent years that has invited the questions of safety for children and pets. Just be respectful is the catch cry.

Beezthingz has hives in a number of city schools, including Richmond Road and Newton in the Ponsonby News area. Children learn how to look after the hives, jar up the honey, design the labels and sell the honey as a fundraiser.

With his other hat on, Julian McCurdy runs BuzzTech, which is a beehive management technology company. The company has produced its own software sensors to monitor the health and strength of hives. This, statistical data can be used by people, including school children, to chart their hives' progress and measure the effects of climate change throughout the year.

We asked Julian about disease, and he admitted we’ll never get rid of varroa. However, he told us American foul brood is the biggest health threat our bees face. Hives are carefully monitored, and if found, foul brood immediately results in hives being burned to the ground to prevent spread of the disease.

Maureen Maxwell of the International Beekeepers Federation said it was important to take the issues of bees and pollination seriously. Without bees two thirds of the country’s food production would be wiped out.

Taking the pollination issue seriously is Andrea Reid and friends who have set up Pollinator Paths to enhance pollination throughout Auckland. They began with a patch in Hakanoa Reserve in Grey Lynn, and are planning a Butterfly Farm along the roadside by Mitre 10 in Westmoreland Street off Richmond Road. They will plant swan plants, nettles, clover to attract monarchs and other butterflies, and muehlenbeckia will grow up the wall of Mitre 10. It is not only bees that are critical to pollination.

Ponsonby News spoke to Warren May, owner of Mitre 10. Warren is not opposed to using the strip along Westmoreland Street, outside Mitre 10 for a Butterfly Farm, subject to ensuring his customers do not get stung, and his garden centre plants are not gobbled up by visitors from the roadside. We pointed out to him it would be largely harmless but attractive butterflies.

America is having pollinator problems with monoculture development, trucking bees all over the states to pollinate crops. Colony collapse is a problem, as bees get weak and sick and don’t eat properly.

Pull bees and other pollinators out of our ecosystem and you threaten the universe.

Farming bees can be very rewarding, the honey is delicious, but for the health of our ecosystem it’s a great environmental project to get involved with. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN

254 PONSONBY PARK Happy New Year from the community-led design (CLD) facilitation group!

January/February is an incredibly exciting time for us. Following our community consultations, the design brief is now with designers to interpret into a series of concept designs. Our landscape architects and designers have risen to the challenge of designing a concept for the site at 254 Ponsonby Road - pro bono! The community-led design facilitation group would like to thank them for their passion and commitment in doing so.

And as we are a community-led design process, everyone is invited to contribute a design if they so choose. Designers, landscapers, artists, children, poets - you’re all invited and can contact us at info@254ponsonbyrd.org.nz for more information. The final concept design brief and submission requirements are also on the site: www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz The deadline for the receipt of the design proposals is: 12 noon, Wednesday 22 February.

We are now beginning to prepare the last consultation event where you get to choose the final park design out of the design proposals.

Following the 22 February deadline, the designs will be taken out to the community via an exhibition on 4 and 5 March. At this event people will be able to select their preferred option.

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We will also run an online survey so everyone can have the opportunity to participate. We’ll be doing letterbox drops and email "Take us to Ponsonby Park!" notifications, plus notifications on our Facebook pages (see below) and the website to promote what will be an inspirational event.

The chosen design, and costing of the work, will then be presented to the Waitemata Local Board to advocate for the funds in the next round of council budgeting.

So hang onto your (sun) hats - it’s going to get really good as we start to see the fruits of all of the CLD consultation work in the concept designs for the site at 254 Ponsonby Road. (JENNIFER WARD) F PN You can check out our Facebook pages: 254ponsonbyrd and Ponsonby Park.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RACHAEL TE AOTONGA: LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY NEWS Welcome to another year and all the best for a good one to you all! We hope you’re having a happy summer and found a chance to visit us at Leys to read something delightful.

The year is already progressing in exciting ways here at the library, with some great events planned. We so enjoy supporting the major highlight in or community during February, the Pride Festival.

We are also thrilled to be hosting an author talk this month. Karen McMillan is an inspiring woman with which writing is just one of her many accomplishments. Do come along and meet this extraordinary author.

PRIDE FESTIVAL 2017 Poetry Speak Easy - Wednesday 15 February, 5.30pm - 7pm. Free event Speak it, Slam it, Recite it, Read it, Perform it, Sing it. Same same but different and Auckland Libraries present the third Pride Poetry speakeasy. Meet us in the lovely courtyard at twilight for a glass of wine and bring your original or favourite LGBTQI poetry to present, or come to listen and enjoy in a welcoming word nest.

Rainbow Storytime - Friday 17 February, 10.30am-11am Join us in celebrating Pride with a special, fun-filled storytime full of rainbow themed stories, songs and rhymes. Auckland Libraries will be at The Big Gay Out at Coyle Park on Sunday 12 February. Do come and say hello and if you’re not making the best of your library service yet, ask as how you can.

Karen will share her inspiration for these bestselling books, discuss the research and writing process, and share practical tips for people wanting to write and get published. Her non-fiction titles include Unbreakable Spirit, Love Bytes, Feast or Famine, and Unleash Your Inner Seductress.

Other fiction titles include Watching Over Me. Order your copies now from Auckland Libraries and get prepared for a special night out.

Light refreshments provided. Books will be available to purchase courtesy of Paper Plus. RSVP recommended. RSVP through the Leys Institute Library Ponsonby Facebook page, at the Leys Institute Library, or phone 09 374 1315.

Author Talk: An evening with Karen McMillan Tuesday 21 February, 6.15pm - 7.30pm. Gold coin/donation We are pleased to offer you the opportunity to meet Karen McMillan, author of bestselling historical novels The Paris of the East and The Paris of the West.

Regular preschool programmes start again in February and all are welcome to bring the little ones along. Check the Auckland Libraries' website for times if you are new to these fun activities. While you’re visiting, check out our interesting display of pictures featuring old-time Ponsonby and surrounding areas. See you at the library soon.

The Paris of the East is a sweeping epic of love and war, courage and survival, sacrifice and loss that spans the conflict of the Second World War. The Paris of the West is a page-turning historical novel set in 1940s San Francisco that goes from jazz clubs to the sun-kissed vineyards of Sonoma. It is a story of love, loss and second chances.

Visit www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz for more details. (RACHAEL TE AOTONGA) F PN LEYS INSTITUTE, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 374 1315, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE NEWS Ponsy Kids Community Preschool • 20 ECE funded hours.

• New session times developed to meet the needs of our community.

Happy New Year - we are looking forward to a fantastic 2017 here at Ponsy Kids.

We have missed all our children over the holiday break and we are very happy to welcome them all back. The children are very excited to be back and are especially looking forward to spending their first summer in our new playground.

We finished 2016 with our annual fish and chip night which was attended by all our families. The children were entertained by 'Fairy Clare' and her very exciting Christmas show. The Children’s Bookshop held a book fair and our families very generously donated books to add to our library.

Our annual City Mission Christmas Appeal was a huge success and we once again delivered a large amount of gifts and food to the mission in time for Christmas. Thank you so much to our families and teachers for your generosity. The children loved watching the collection grow and they were very excited about making Christmas special for other children.

Contact details are: Head Teacher: Julie Ferguson, E: julie@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz; T: 09 376 0896 Ponsonby Community Centre & Leys Institute Gymnasium Hall: Another busy term for both of our community facilities. For 2017 we welcome Choi’s Tae Kwon Do to Ponsonby Community Centre on Tuesday and Friday after school. They are offering one free trial session for kids, please contact Sooji on mob 021 0247 4108 for more information.

Neverland Dance Studios is offering more classes for children in Term One. It cater for children aged between five years to 13 years old. Dance classes range from jazz, hip

20 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

hop, contemporary, musical theatre to ballet. For more information or to enrol your child visit website www.neverlandstudios.co.nz We still have some spaces available for the term bookings, plus we have two small rooms which are suitable for small group meetings. The Gluepot Room, in particular, has a Smart tv, projector screen whiteboard and kitchenette available, so give us a call, we are more than happy to assist you with your booking enquiry.

Term classes - Ponsonby Community Centre Yoga - Life Drawing - Jumping Beans - Preschool Ballet - Preschool Music - Speech & Drama - Music Classes - Meditation - Community Playgroup - Tae Kwon Do - Neverland Dance - Toastmasters - Pattern Making - Arts & Crafts for kids - Special Interest Groups - Kitchen available for hire (licensed) Term classes - Leys Institute Gymnasium Hall Aerial Fitness - Tai Chi - Monday Dance Classes. Gym Kids Gymnastics weekly programme, visit www.gymkids.co.nz for their timetable info.

Visit our website for contact details on our term classes, looking forward to a great Term 1 with our groups. F PN For more information on Ponsonby Community Centre please call T: 09 378 1752; M: 021 244 0904, E: info@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz; www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz; Facebook: Ponsonby Community Centre

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Local identity with a proud family heritage Gerry Hill is well known in Ponsonby. He has been walking his dogs, Laki, Hemi and, more recently, Kuini, around our 'hood' for more than 20 years. He has also taken a keen interest in local body politics from a centre-left perspective.

Gerry and partner, Sally James, who met at a Springbok protest in 1981, have run The Great Ponsonby Art Hotel in Ponsonby Terrace for 20 years. They are famous for their hospitality, locally and internationally. You haven’t been anywhere if you haven’t been to breakfast at The Great Ponsonby.

Although I have known Gerry for most of those 20 years, when I interviewed him for this editorial I learned a lot more about this very interesting local man.

He is the son of the famous, or notorious, depending on your political point of view, Labour unionist leader, Toby Hill.

Gerry Hill grew up in Wellington and he can tell great stories about the colourful visitors to his childhood home in Wadestown. Father Toby was a Scotsman, as were many of our early unionists. He was born in Blantyre in 1915, and died in Wellington in 1977 when Gerry was just 21 years old.

Toby was a staunch socialist. He always insisted he was never a communist. He had read the famous 'The Ragged-trousered Philanthropist' at age 12, had strong Christian beliefs and never forgot the grinding poverty of his childhood - it moulded his thinking for the rest of his life. By 1942, at 26 years of age, Toby Hill was elected National Secretary of the NZ Waterfront Workers Union. In 1948 the Wharfies opposed the All Blacks touring South Africa with whites only.

Gerry remembers the associates of his father who regularly visited their home - people like Jock Barnes, Ken Douglas, the Bollinger brothers, Pat Kelly, a young Dave Morgan, Con Devit, just to name a few. He was interested in 'the human condition', Gerry told us.

People could redeem themselves.

world. He developed an interest in food and cooking, and would bring home exotic and unusual ingredients to try out on his friends.

Gerry sees society today as freer than when he was growing up - homosexual law reform, abortions available when needed - but not so kind as it was. “We need a society where schools are good, the health system works for all, and people are looked after in their old age," he told Ponsonby News. Too many young people have a “huge sense of entitlement,” and people don’t look out for each other like they used to do.

Gerry Hill names Seddon, Vogel, Coates, Savage, Fraser and Helen Clark among his ‘best’ politicians, but has a special soft spot for Norman Eric Kirk. Kirk, says Gerry, came closest to articulating 'Nationhood'.

One of Gerry’s proudest achievements was his organisation of Operation Hope. He saw on TV the desperate plight of people on the Horn of Africa - drought and millions of deaths - and resolved to do something about it. He visited his old family friend, Sonia Davies, Labour MP, who got hold of Chris Laidlaw, recently appointed Lange’s ‘man in Africa’. The upshot was a Lange supported and assisted mission in the MV Ngahere, laden with food, infrastructure material and farming equipment to Africa in 1985. Gerry Hill and friends had raised $3.4 million, acquired cigarettes, beer and cases of wine, with the help of Tim Shadbolt, for the crew on the three month voyage. This was the same human catastrophe that moved Bob Geldof to set up Live Aid. “I could have stood for parliament,” Gerry told us, “and I do regret that the political groups I have supported financially over the years have never wanted to select me for local government politics here in Auckland.”

Their home at 20 Cecil Road was a meeting place where everyone was welcome (except poet Denis Glover, if he was fired up by liquor, to which Gerry’s mum, Flora, objected).

Flora would put the jug on and a cup of tea was soon ready. One such visitor was the mailman whose run ended at the Hill house. His name - James K Baxter.

Still, Gerry Hill has made his mark on local issues, including being a long-time supporter of parks, and a severe critic of cuts to the music in parks programme, but sadly, in his early 60s, Gerry has been struck down with progressive multiple sclerosis. He has expert professional help, and is doing everything he can to keep fit with hydrotherapy, physio, and never2old gym sessions. He’s riding with the punches, he told us, not looking for sympathy. He is full of praise for Sally’s care.

Gerry Hill tells us his was a cultural home. His parents, Flora and Toby, were good dancers. They didn’t have much money, but they had a rich life, colourful, inhabited by thinkers, mostly self-educated. They loved music, poetry and humour. This helped to overcome what many thought a 'dull grey country'.

Gerry Hill is a good man who cares about others. He is sometimes prone to pushing too hard for his causes, but if he ruffles political feathers he’s probably making them think.

Keith Holyoake came around to check on Toby after his heart attack in the 60s. After coming north to Auckland in 1973, Gerry joined the Merchant Navy in 1974 and saw the

We know readers will want to thank Gerry Hill for his lifetime of service to his community PN and country, and to wish him well with his fight with MS. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F www.greatpons.co.nz www.gustoitaliano.co.nz

"OUR ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE ITALIAN" GUSTO ITALIANO

photography: Martin Leach

Gerry Hill, Armando Koci and Sally James

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PONSONBY U3A: DECEMBER 2016 The U3A movement is about keeping brain and body active, which its members would agree is key to a rewarding retirement Ponsonby U3A wrapped up 2016 on a high note, welcoming more new members in a larger meeting venue, with more special interest groups than ever before. "There are new things to learn and fun to be had and we are really looking forward to getting the new year underway,” says president Collene Roche. “Our members are a wide ranging group with fascinating backgrounds, who want to keep the learning and socialising going without the formality of structured learning. Our 19 special interest groups offer everything from art history, gallery visits and classical studies to dining out and ramblers day trips to the host of wonderful places to visit around Auckland. Current affairs are hotly debated, small antiques studied, poetry read, science explored, concerts and plays attended - and on Tuesday and Thursday mornings petanque enthusiasts, of whom there are many, enjoy the facilities of the Herne Bay Petanque Club.”

U3A meets on the second Friday morning of the month. Each meeting has two speakers: a guest speaker and a U3A member who gives a 10-minute talk on any subject dear to them. It’s the special interest groups though, that are the lifeblood of the organisation.

They are where learning, socialising, and leisure activities take place and many wonderful friendships are made between members who might otherwise have never met.

Last year many members participated in quiz nights held at the Garnet Station Cafe and Tiny Theatre in Garnet Road and plan to continue in the coming year.

U3A member Vicky Carr, daughter of artists Colin McCahon and Anne McCahon (nee Hamblett) played a major role in curating an exhibition of her mother’s work A Table of One’s Own: The Creative life of Anne McCahon at Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery until 12 February. An in depth article in a recent NZ Listener did justice to her mother’s life and Vicky’s major role in bringing her mother’s art to the attention of a new audience.

Former Ponsonby U3A president Annie Webster now has a role on a bigger U3A stage as vice president of U3A Online, based in Australia. She will attend a meeting in Melbourne this month. U3A Online provides online courses for U3A interest groups or individual members in New Zealand, Australia and around the world.

U3A member Janet Williamson is to become a representative on the Auckland U3A Network Committee.

Collene Roche, President Ponsonby U3A

Guests are welcome to attend a Ponsonby U3A meeting. Please telephone Collene Roche (T 09 373 3277) if you wish to attend.

Guest speaker for the February meeting will be Robyn Brady from NZ Red Cross, to give an overview of the work of the Red Cross both here and overseas. The 10-minute PN speaker will be U3A member Diana Bailey. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F NEXT MEETING:

10am, Friday 10 February at Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Street Reserve, Herne Bay.

ENQUIRIES:

Collene Roche, President, Ponsonby U3A T: 09 373 3277, www.u3aponsonby.co.nz

DEIRDRE ROELANTS: LANDMARK BUILDINGS

Foresters Hall The houses were built in the 1870s, 1880s and some in the early 1900s. Most were rented by labourers, many of whom worked at the wharf just down the hill, which was before reclamation took place and where Victoria Park was created. One building towers above its more lowly neighbours (not so lowly price-wise nowadays). Foresters Hall is a two storied concrete building with a symmetrical facade, recessed central doorway, pilasters, a projecting cornice with brackets, a parapet with pilasters and triangular detail. It served as a community hall where our first Labour Prime Minister, Michael Savage, held many meetings. The property was purchased by the International Order of Odd Fellows for £135 in 1907. This society has its roots in the old English craft guilds.

It was set up to provide workers and their families with financial and other assistance at a time when there was no government welfare. The first New Zealand Lodge was formed in Dunedin in 1862. There followed a big growth of lodges throughout New Zealand. At the height of its membership, there were over 100 New Zealand lodges. Membership declined after the introduction of the welfare state in the 1930s.

Other fraternities have used the hall over the years, such as the Freemasons, the Druids, the Foresters and the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes whose notice is still on the doorway. The RAOB came into existence in 1822 at the Harp Tavern which was opposite the Drury Lane Theatre. Actors, stage hands and theatre technicians formed a club there and the name was derived from a popular song, ‘We’ll chase the Buffalo’ and members were known as the ‘buffs’. The first meeting was called Phoenix Lodge No.1.

As members toured the country with various shows, lodges opened in other towns. The RAOB quickly spread to other countries as well and has been in existence in New Zealand for over 120 years. Some of them operating under the Grand Surrey Banner which is a sort of breakaway after the Grand Primo Lodge was established. When the Newmarket Railway Lodge was demolished in 1955 Foresters Hall took over its social meetings, hence the black-lettered sign, Railway Lodge No156 that is clearly visible on the upper side of the building.

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photography: George Shiers

The Historic Places Trust has identified Renall Street in Ponsonby as an area of historical significance.

Benevolent societies certainly flourished in earlier times. The Foresters traces its origins to a British Friendly Society, an organisation that cared for the sick.The two banded together for mutual aid and protection in 14th Century England near the ancient royal forests which belonged to the monarchy. In 1834 the Royal Foresters formed a friendly society, its members recognising that their fellow men who fell into want ‘as they walked through the forests of life’, needed assistance when a breadwinner fell ill, unable to work and received no wages. Illness and death left families financially distressed and more often than not, destitute. Members realised that by paying a few pence a week into a common fund they would be able to offer sick pay and funeral grants when necessary. The friendly society expanded into Canada due to a prominent doctor and community leader of Mohawk descent, Oronhyatekha (Burning Sky). He died in 1907 after transforming the Foresters into one of North America’s leading fraternal benefit societies.

These early fraternal societies shared certain characteristics. In New Zealand they were overwhelmingly pakeha, claimed to be non political and free of religious prejudice, often associated with food and alcohol consumption and tended to have a degree of secret ritual. Membership was exclusively male and declined dramatically due to a younger generation being somewhat bemused by the rituals. They were gradually replaced by service clubs such as Lions and Rotary, etc. By the end of the 20th Century most fraternities had been wound up except for the Freemasons. Nowadays the service clubs PN do fairly similar charitable work. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) F PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

Progress for Auckland Central projects photography: Chris McBride

We have had a good couple of years in Auckland Central with many initiatives seeing progress or completion. Some of these initiatives include: • The Government announcing a significant funding commitment to the City Rail Link and the beginning of construction. This is a project I have supported and advocated for since 2009.

• Progress on reform of the Unit Titles Act; affecting many people in the electorate living in apartments. I advocated strongly with a group of property professionals for changes to the law.

• $40 million property investment for Waiheke Schools (Waiheke High School and Te Huruhi School).

• The opening of the Aotea Conservation Park and re-opening of the Aotea Track on Great Barrier Island.

• Redevelopments at Bayfield School ($12 million) and Freemans Bay School ($19 million) as well as the $79 million redevelopment at Western Springs College (while not in the electorate it is an important secondary school for Auckland Central residents).

• $88 million package of cycleways benefiting Auckland and Auckland Central.

• Rollout of ultra-fast broadband on Waiheke Island recently completed. This is hugely important for social and economic progress for residents and businesses on the island.

• Improved cell reception for Great Barrier Island with a new cell site going live this year in the north of the island.

Alola Roberston (Grey Lynn Library), Tigilau Ness, Vince Tuisamoa (Grey Lynn residents) and Will 'ilolahia (Ponsonby resident), glass by Evelyn Dunstan

CELEBRATION OF POLYNESIAN PANTHERS' 45TH AND THE BLACK PANTHERS' 50TH ANNIVERSARIES An autographed print was recently presented to Grey Lynn Library in gratitude of their support for the Polynesian Panthers' 45th and the Black Panthers' 50th anniversaries.

The autographed print of President Obama (who ended his presidency last month) is

by Emory Douglas, the world-renowned revolutionary artist and Black Panther Party Minister of Culture.

Earlier last year three parts of the Polynesian Panthers' 45th party was hosted by Grey Lynn Library. A video clip shot at the library wishing happy anniversary for the Black Panthers' 50th celebration received a standing ovation from the attendees.

However, there is still more to do and therefore I am delighted to be confirmed as standing again for Auckland Central for 2017. I love this electorate, its communities and businesses, and am as committed as ever to representing it and getting results.

Having been diagnosed with breast cancer, the past few months have been tough and I am so grateful for the support of my family, friends and the National Party. I have also been completely overwhelmed with the support I have received from Auckland Central constituents during this time. I decided to stand again as I believe there is still so much more that I can do to improve the lives of the people of Auckland Central.

Last year my office and I dealt with more than 10,000 constituency queries or issues by people and organisations. These issues were diverse as they covered people living in apartments to people living in more isolated parts of Great Barrier Island.

Through these queries, my constituency clinics and the thousands of doors I have knocked on, constituents have raised issues with me that have led to me advocating and delivering policies or projects. One of the beautiful things about our country is the ability for so many people to access Members of Parliament to personally advocate on issues.

I am proud of the projects progressed in Auckland Central, such as significant investment in transport and education infrastructure, there is still so much more to do.

Areas like central Auckland and Waiheke Island are home to huge numbers of residents but are also popular tourist destinations. We need to continue to invest in world-class infrastructure and services.

Over the coming year I will be continuing to work on a range of projects covering transport infrastructure, including improving ferry infrastructure and services for Waiheke Island and access to better services for Central Auckland residents.

It is a privilege to be the MP for Auckland Central. I look forward to continuing to work PN hard and deliver for the people of Auckland Central. (NIKKI KAYE) F Hon Nikki Kaye is the MP for Auckland Central, www.nikkikaye.co.nz

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CARS & MOTORING

ARMSTRONG MOTOR GROUP Armstrong Motor Group is one of the country’s most well-known retail motor vehicle companies.

It consistently strives on delivering its motto “Expect the Best, Nothing Less.”

In 2001 Rick Armstrong acquired the group’s first franchise - Peugeot. In October 2015 Armstrong Motor Group proudly obtained Peugeot & Citroen dealership in Auckland.

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The dealership is based in a convenient location, central Greenlane - 227 Great South Road. Along with being in an impeccable location, they are the only authorised Peugeot & Citroen dealer in Auckland - sales, service and parts.

With a Peugeot or Citroen vehicle it is essential service and repairs are carried out by properly trained professionals who can ensure your vehicle is kept to the manufacturers' recommended standard. Armstrong’s workshop is fitted with factory-linked diagnostic technology to get to the core of the problem right away. The team consists of expert technicians including two international Peugeot Citroen master technicians.

Armstrong’s makes it simple for you when you drop your vehicle off as they offer a number of alternative transport options to minimise any hassle. If you would like to make use of a courtesy car, simply let them know when you book your service. A shuttle service is also provided, taking you to/from your desired location.

Armstrong’s stocks a full range of genuine parts. It's specialist parts team can provide you with pricing and availability of any part you require. All genuine parts come with a one year warranty.

Armstrong Motor Group Peugeot & Citroen Greenlane has been prosperous in its past year of taking over the franchise. Based on a strong track record in excellent customer service there will be more growth in the future. F PN www.armstrongmotorgroup.com

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Huge new SHA complex to replace Gables pub should be canned Despite a similar, but less intensive development proposal for the Gables pub site being turned down by the Environment Court in 2007, a new proposal with 69 apartments and two commercial areas has received the go-ahead by the Government as an SHA (Special Housing Area).

Manson's proposal for 1 Kelmarna Avenue replacing the Gables In 2007 Environment Court Judge McElrea criticised “the dominance of the development, the high level of site coverage, the lack of buffers on two boundaries, the loss of direct sunlight to residential properties on Kelmarna Avenue.”

Judge McElrea concluded, “In this location it seems out of place with considerable detrimental effects.”

So why on earth does Manson Construction Company, which has bought the site, think the new proposal will work with 69 apartments, two commercial areas, six storeys where only four are permitted, considerable loss of sunlight to adjoining character residential homes, removal of street parking, no parking for visitors, no acknowledgement of heritage surroundings and, worst of all, significantly more raw sewage flowing into an already polluted harbour. The answer is in three letters - SHA. The Waitemata Local Board unanimously opposed the new proposal, while the Auckland Council Committee approved it by one vote. It went to the then Housing Minister, Nick Smith, who approved it.

Like a majority of Aucklanders, I support intensification of population inside the current city boundaries. We do not want unlimited urban sprawl covering good farmland with tarseal and concrete, making infrastructure development difficult and costly.

But the Government has gone berserk, approving 154 SHAs in the Auckland region, and thousands of Aucklanders are in danger of losing treasured amenities they value like trees, sun, with new traffic and parking problems, breaching of peace and quiet. This is not nimbyism. It’s about a sense of community and what we like about where we live.

As our Councillor, Mike Lee, said in a recent press release, “SHAs are Nick Smith’s brain child. The intensive housing developments have their approvals fast tracked, mainly by suspending the normal rights for affected members of the public to comment on the applications. Suspending Aucklanders’ civil and even property rights was considered necessary by Nick Smith to help solve the housing crisis, a crisis which former Prime Minister John Key, Minister Simon Bridges and other cabinet ministers have denied exists.

Lee wrote a firm but polite letter to Nick Smith, calling for the SHA delegation to be removed from the Gables site. He received a vitriolic reply from Smith calling Lee a “nimby” and a "hypocrite”.

The New Zealand Herald of Saurday 21 January featured a double page spread by journalist Simon Collins, outlining the problem of raw sewage flowing into the Waitemata Harbour, with among the worst outflows at Coxs Bay where the effluent from the proposed new 69-apartment complex would flow. As Watercare concedes, “each extra home will add to the baseload of sewage in the combined pipes.”

Ponsonby News spoke with Kim Walker and Kate Stanton who live opposite the Gables on Kelmarna Avenue. As well as the critical issue of sewage disposal, they cited bad shading on Kelmarna and loss of sun, increased traffic and noise, parking problems, potential social issues of integration if the SHA has a requirement to supply 10% of affordable apartments. They will be shoe boxes, Walker and Stanton declared, but still cost five or six hundred thousand dollars. “The proposed development is out of scale-out of proportion for the site.”

There will be a huge local uproar when people find out they have no right to oppose the development. Back to Mike Lee. He said the century-old combined wastewater and sewage system which drains into Cox’s Bay, overflowed 62 times in the year to last June.

“We are talking about the sparkling Waitemata,” he told the Herald. “At the same time we are promoting the pollution of the harbour with human wastes.”

Therefore, maintains Lee, the development does not meet the “adequate infrastructure” provision in the Housing Accords and Special Housing Act. Opposed locals, including Walker and Stanton, are calling for “reasonable development in our area,” in sympathy with the environment it sits in. They remind readers that the powerful Environment Court has already turned down a less intrusive development.

The Waitemata Local Board, in its opposition statement concluded that “This SHA application is substantially similar to the rejected 2007 proposal although with 30% greater height, which would require zoning changes under the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. There is a proven record of considerable community opposition to further development of the site that would be thwarted by the SHA process.”

PN That just doesn’t seem fair or right. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F www.gng.org.nz

However, Lee’s letter to Smith was largely about inadequate infrastructure, in particular the environmental effects of raw sewage overflowing into the Waitemata Harbour on a more or less weekly basis.

Councillor Lee, a mild-mannered man of principle, was hugely offended by Smith’s allegations, and has gone on to call the process a “corruption of civic law and process”.

It’s also a smack in the face for our very efficient and hard-working local board.”

The main hope of locals is that Watercare will step up and speak out on the obscene idea that more raw sewage should be allowed to flow into our harbour. As Mike Lee also said, “It is primitive in the extreme to allow further pollution of our harbour.” Watercare has a long-term aim to build a central interceptor to take sewage underground to Mangere.

The billion and a half dollars or so it will cost is just not available right now.

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

RESOURCE CONSENT FOR SKYPATH GRANTED Auckland Council has welcomed the final written decision of the Environment Court to grant a resource consent for SkyPath.

Councillor Chris Darby, chair of the Planning Committee, says the decision is a great move forward for Auckland’s transport network.

“This is a momentous step in what will become a critical link in Auckland’s walking and cycling network, for which there is a phenomenal public appetite. SkyPath is the beacon for the future of active transport in Auckland, and is a crucial part of a grand vision to connect Takapuna with St Heliers,” says Councillor Darby,

platforms, and fixed to the eastern clip-on lane of the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Brett O’Riley, Chief Executive of council-controlled organisation Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic Development (ATEED) and Auckland Council’s project sponsor for SkyPath says: “We’re thrilled to see the SkyPath take another step towards becoming a reality for Aucklanders and visitors to the city. “This project will serves as a drawcard for visitors and opens up a new way of experiencing our stunning harbour and city.” F PN www.skypath.org.nz

“This project has been under way for 12 years and I’d like to thank the SkyPath Trust and, particularly, project director Bevan Woodward for their tireless dedication in progressing it. SkyPath has passed every test and challenge thrown at it. It has been rigorously examined both by the council and the Environment Court. I’m looking forward to seeing this project realised.”

The court concluded that the proposed conditions for the operation of SkyPath will “regulate and minimise effects on the environment entirely adequately” and acknowledged that a patronage cap at the northern landing, as sought by the appellant, would “entirely undermine” the transport function of the project.

The resource consent was originally granted in July 2015 by independent commissioners for the council, but was appealed to the court by several community organisations.

SkyPath is a pedestrian and cycle pathway across the Waitemata Harbour, linking the North Shore to the CBD. It is proposed to be 4m, wide, 6m wide at the five viewing

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LOCAL NEWS SHOWCASING VIRTUAL REALITY TO MARKET APARTMENTS Apartmint Real Estate in Ponsonby is the first in New Zealand to use Virtual Reality (VR) technology to showcase freehold residential apartments to prospective buyers.

The business has multiple virtual reality headsets which allow viewers to take a 360 degree tour of Proxima Residences without having to step a foot inside.

Apartmint is a licensed real estate agency that specialises in selling off-plan boutique apartment buildings in the city fringe, often designed with baby boomers or empty nesters in mind.

Apartmint encourages developers to construct high-quality oversized apartments with generous decks to suit owner occupiers who want to improve their lifestyle. We target apartment buildings which are located close to cafes, restaurants and parks, which offer security and safety with sunny decks and views whilst removing the hassle of home maintenance and lawns.

These oversized apartments often contain only five to 20 apartments per building where it is uneconomic to justify the cost of constructing a full size showroom.

It is often difficult for the buyer to fully understand the completed product they will receive when relying on a plan set with a glossy brochure.

The Virtual Reality (VR) technology provides ground breaking improvement in communication around apartment size, daylight and finishes. Potential buyers can now truly visualise their new home and in particular understand the volume of rooms, colours, natural lighting, views, relationship to decks. This is a game changer.

"If a picture paints a 1000 words then VR paints 1,000,000."

Customers benefit from an improved understanding of the value proposition as they are taken through different rooms. Most people can't interpret plans, particularly the scale.

Consequently VR reduces their risk of not understanding the product.

We can offer the experience from our centrally located showroom at 54 Ponsonby Road, which is manned seven days per week, saving the buyer from racing from one open home to the next.

Proxima Residences is the first freehold residential development project to offer the VR experience. These luxury apartments are located 900m from our Ponsonby Road office and sit on a ridge. The design, size and high level of quality is targeted at owner occupiers. The apartments offer Arclinea designer kitchens by Matisse with fingerprint -free nano technology cabinetry and appliances from Miele with options to upgrade to Smart Home technology from Schnieder which includes integrated sound to stream your favourite tunes. The north-facing apartments have amazing elevated views and sun capture. Theses apartments are all circa 100m in size plus oversized covered balconies of up to 26m square.

The south-western apartments are smaller and overlook Basque Park and Mount Eden and suit first home buyers and city workers. These balconies will enjoy late afternoon sun when the workers return home.

Everyone is amazed by the effectiveness of VR which makes them feel as if they are already enjoying their new apartment. Call into Apartmint, opposite Western Park to amaze yourself. F PN APARTMINT, 54C Ponsonby Road, T: 0800 360 003, www.apartmint.co.nz

Craig Watkins, director of Apartmint uses the virtual reality technology they are using to showcase freehold residential apartments

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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Robyn

Angela

Jan & Aaron

Sue

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Congratulations 1st place 2nd place 3rd place 4th place 5th place 6th place 7th place 8th place 9th place 10th place Top Exclusive Lister $or -uh;ঞm] -lr-b]m

Robyn Ellson 021 800 891 Angela Saunders 021 448 900 Jan George & Aaron Haabjoern 0274 784 119 & 021 469 226 "†; -‚om 027 279 9696 ;-|_;u -mঞm] Å&#x; -u|‹ -Ñ´Ñ´ 0274 394 124 & 0274 500 168 Lynn Lacy-Hauck 021 190 0611 Chloe Wither 021 672 191 Elaine Ferguson 027 534 5024 $ub1b- -@;u|‹ Å&#x; ‹l bhbm 021 611 205 & 021 596 222 Carla Pedersen 021 417 139 Robyn Ellson 021 800 891 ;-|_;u -mঞm] Å&#x; -u|‹ -Ñ´Ñ´ 0274 394 124 & 0274 500 168

Lynn

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Well done to our top performers of 2016 for another year of great real estate.

We would also like to thank all of our clients and supporters in 2016. We look forward to another great year in 2017. From the directors, Simon Damerell & Gower Buchanan.

Äš Ć?Ć– Ć’Ć•Ńľ Ć‘Ć?ќѾ Äš u;1;rাomÄşromvom0‹ĺmÂŒĹ u-‹‰_b|;Äş1ol )Äš u‰romvom0‹ĺ1oÄşmÂŒ Äš ƑƔƖ omvom0‹ !o-7ġ omvom0‹ Ĺ&#x; Ć“Ć‘Ć‘ !b1_lom7 !o-7ġ u;‹ ‹mm oŠ Ć“Ć•ĹŠĆ?Ć‘Ńś omvom0‹ġ Ć?Ć?Ć“Ć“

Carla

HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN I hate to be a dullard and start my column by discussing the weather, but to be frank this summer has been horribly inconsistent so we've had to be more spontaneous than usual.

Me: "Shall we go camping?"

Martin: "When?"

Me: "Now, let's camp right here outside. It will be fun."

Martin: "It's Friday the 13th and a full moon. What could possibly go wrong?"

While Martin pitched the tent, I bathed in mosquito repellent then grabbed our torches and my camera gear. When it was dark we set off on a walk around the property. We immediately noticed how our torch light picked up on tiny little eyes peering out from the foliage. The sounds were amazing. We heard crackles, pops and the occasional drip of something mysterious and squishy hitting the ground. We heard faint rustling and movement. This frequently made us grind to a halt, but nothing dashed out at us; that was rather disappointing, to be honest. Critters working the night shift seem very industrious and sneaky to say the least.

I was walking ahead of Martin when I suddenly heard him cry out. I turned and shone my torch in his direction. Martin appeared to be conducting a double face-palming act.

He informed me that he had managed to walk into a large spider web. Martin is follicly challenged so he could feel every sticky strand of the web wrapped around his head.

My laughter echoed amongst the trees but was quickly interrupted by the call of a morepork. It wasn't the usual call, it was more like an annoyed screech. The morepork glared down at us through the cloud of moths that were frolicking in our beams of light.

All those fluffy moths were soon joined by other winged insects. They swarmed around us menacingly. Under the weight of the morepork's stare, we suddenly began to feel as though we were intruders.

Martin and I retreated to our tent for the night. Sleeping was a challenge. There was a weta close by rubbing its back legs noisily to alert other males to stay out of the territory. Then the morepork started up a bizarre vibrating call that increased in speed, stopped, and began again with many joining in along the way. They seemed to be everywhere. This sound can best be likened to a pond full of frogs. We assumed it to be a romantic song of some kind, which eventually lulled us into sleep.

In the morning I was the first to exit the tent. I stood and stretched for a bit until I felt something lightly patter down upon my head. I reached up and gripped sticky little round things. When I looked up I noticed a kereru sitting directly above me, yawning.

Martin looked up at me and immediately commented on how I appeared to be showering in recycled nikau berries. Then, he laughed and laughed and laughed and... now our tent PN is known as The Dog Box. (HEIDI PADAIN) F

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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 To get to know Heidi better and see what she's working on next, look her up on Facebook Heidi Padain Photography.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Exceptional Worker 83 Richmond Road Forthcoming Auction www.rwponsonby.co.nz/PON24239

3

1

366m2

Contact Robyn to view

This crisp, cute as a button worker’s cottage has a big secret.

Beyond the front door, you will discover an absolutely divine north-facing living area, complete with soaring ceilings and easy flow to a lush private back garden. An exceptional find.

As Dreams Are Made 39 First Avenue Forthcoming Auction www.rwponsonby.co.nz/PON24237

5

3

809m2

Contact Robyn to view

The original owners may have known how special this position high on the ridge would become. Perhaps that is why they chose to build the house on the middle of two sites, laying claim to 809m2 of pure northfacing magic.

Robyn Ellson 021 800 891 | 09 376 2186 robyn.ellson@raywhite.com | robynellson.co.nz Or drop in to our Ray White Ponsonby office, 259 Ponsonby Road!

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photography: Clare Gemima for Ponsonby News

LOCAL NEWS

AUCKLAND PRIDE 2017: PRIDE AND PROGRESS - THE MOVEMENT MUST CONTINUE! The rising tide of global conservatism - from Donald Trump in America to Brian Tamaki in Aotearoa - and the resulting uncertainty around LGBT+ and human rights, make this year’s Auckland Pride Festival and Parade more relevant and vital for the wellbeing of New Zealand’s Rainbow communities than ever.

“The political situation worldwide is of serious concern to all minority groups, whether ethnic, religious or based on sexual orientation or gender identity,” says Auckland Pride Board member Lexie Matheson, ONZM. Running from Friday 10 to Sunday 26 February, the 2017 Auckland Pride Festival will celebrate Auckland’s cultural and sexual diversity, as well as offering a safe space for progressive voices to be heard, and bringing focus to the important issues that face New Zealand’s Rainbow communities (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, takatâpui, fa’afafine, intersex, queer) in 2017 and beyond.

The theme for the 2017 Auckland Pride Parade is Pride & Progress: The Carnival Continues! Ponsonby Road will be packed full of love, light and colour on Saturday 25 February when Aotearoa’s largest and loudest carnival of change and diversity parades up Auckland’s hippest strip at the later time of 7.30pm.

The 2017 Auckland Pride Festival will feature over 50 individual events all across Auckland - from Ponsonby to Manukau and Henderson to Waiheke Island - including local and international theatre and cabaret, art exhibitions, live music, film and digital media, literature, debates and discussions, drag and burlesque, sports and recreation, PN gardening, pets, pageants and parties! F To register an event or activity within the 2017 Auckland Pride Festival, please contact the Festival Director Julian Cook: festival@aucklandpridefestival.org.nz To enter a float or march in the 2017 Auckland Pride Parade, please contact Parade Producers Jonathan Smith and Shaughan Woodcock: parade@aucklandpridefestival.org.nz

In the 30 years since Homosexual Law Reform, New Zealand’s Rainbow communities have accomplished many things legally, socially and culturally. But all gains are fragile and very real issues remain.

“The pushback against reasoned civility and the concept of social equality is primitive, frightening, immediate and very, very real,” says Matheson. “Until recently, established social parameters have kept us relatively safe from the rhetoric of hate - a language which opens the floodgates to violence and oppression, both social and political.”

Homophobia continues to exist. Young people are still not safe. LGBT+ people don’t enjoy the benefits of health equity. HIV/AIDS has still not been beaten. Women do not have pay equity. Gender identity isn’t included in the Human Rights Act and reassignment surgeries are woefully underfunded. Neighbouring countries still choose to deny LGBT+ rights.

The momentum of change must continue! The 2017 Auckland Pride Parade will celebrate the brilliant achievements of the Rainbow communities - but also turn the spotlight on issues that still obstruct full equality.

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY Auckland’s Hippest Strip

SHOP EAT & PARTY

WITH PRIDE SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARY 2017 PONSONBY ROAD ALL DAY

4PM ONWARDS

7:30PM

UNTIL LATE

Come and visit our amazing shops, cool cafes and tasty restaurants

Ponsonby Road is car-free, with circus performers, entertainment and dancing from 5:30pm

New Zealand’s biggest ever Pride Parade gets underway

The party will continue on Auckland’s hippest strip

No parking restrictions until 3:30PM

http://www.iloveponsonby.co.nz

TINA PLUNKETT: PONSONBY CENTRAL

Ponsonby Central Proud February is slammed full of amazing events in our hood to make sure you get amongst it! Here's a few of the highlights for Ponsonby Central.

ENDING HIV BIG GAY OUT Sunday 12 February, 12 noon - 7pm @ Coyle Park We are super-proud to be supporting Big Gay Out and one of the fabulous ways we have got together with the amazing people from NZAF and the Big Gay Party Bus (brought to you by Family Bar) will this year also be stopping at the corner of Richmond and Ponsonby Roads every 20 minutes from 11.30am - 8pm.

So meet your friends, grab your picnic supplies, stop for a hearty brunch or lunch and then head on over to one of Auckland's entertaining, inclusive and family fun afternoons. And the great news is you can finish your day with dinner and a cold drink back at Ponsonby Central at the other end.

VALENTINE'S DAY Tuesday 14 February Single? Then this is actually the night for you! Burger Burger with lots of other cool kids around Auckland are hosting the ultimate Valentine's Blind Date up in the Sapphire Room. Find out more on all our social media streams.

Long-term lovers, we’ve got you sorted for the big day - casual or a bit more intimate, so make sure you get those bookings in.

Want a flower that lasts longer than your Tinder date?

Love and Mr Lewis have hand-dipped wax roses.

They look flawless and stunning. "Waxed roses live forever, love forever."

PROUD MARKET Saturday 25 February, 4pm - 7.30pm Top Richmond Road We’re making the most of some closed streets so teaming up with our neighbours Golden Dawn and putting on a Loud & Proud Market, artists, makers, music, clothes, nicknacks and all things market.

Taking over the street! #loveagoodmarket.

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

WOOF Sunday 19 February, 1pm - Western Park You know how much we love our dogs here at Ponosnby Central, so we are more than proud to support Woof - the Auckland Pride Dog Show. Woof is taking over Western Park once again with everything that is fluffy and furrrbulous!

The catwalk becomes a dogwalk on this doggy-tastic day with MC Steven Oates, celebrity judges and prizes galore! (Including lots from us). So start planning and designing and let your pooch put their best paw forward in their fanciest outfit. Categories include Best Dressed, Best Dog/Owner Look-a-Like, Biggest Dog, Smallest Dog, Best Talent/Trick and Best in Show.

PONSONBY PRIDE PARADE Pride & Progress: The carnival continues Saturday 25 February, pre entertainment from 4pm, Parade from 7.30pm And of course to finish it all off, the spectacular showcase for our Ponsonby Community and our Rainbow communities (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, takatapui, fa’afafine) Ponsonby Central is super proud to announce that this year we will be supporting easily the cutest part of the parade - Rainbow families. Grab your friends, come early for pre entertainment and markets, grab the best posy, dress fabulous wonderful and as proud as you can be and help us celebrate our wonderful diverse city.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS SHOP, EAT AND PARTY WITH PRIDE Make sure you’re in Ponsonby on Saturday 25 February.

The Pride Parade starts at Tole Street at 7.30pm but the fun starts much earlier! There’ll be activity all day along the Ponsonby Strip, so you won’t want to miss any of it.

This year the Strip is open to traffic with no parking restrictions anywhere along Ponsonby Road until mid-afternoon, so come up and visit our amazing shops or grab a meal at one of our cool cafes, bars and restaurants.

From 4pm onwards, Ponsonby Road will be car free so bring the kids, bikes, dogs and have a walk up and down the Strip. You can watch the parade being set up around Tole Street, see the rainbows being painted on the street intersections, grab a snack, or just find the best seat at your favourite bar and watch the world go by.

Street entertainment and performances all along Ponsonby Road start from 5pm. Our ‘rainbow’ face painters will be here from 4.30pm making sure everyone gets into the spirit of Pride.

Kids will love the little skate ramps at the top of Franklin Road where they’ll get the chance to show off their skills and learn some new ones.

There’ll be roller-bladers, drag queens, unicyclists, samba dancers, entertainers and stilt walkers all performing at various places along the road.

So join in the fun of the Pride Parade; the party will continue until late on Auckland’s Hippest Strip. F PN To see the full line up with times and venues go to our Facebook page or our website www.iloveponsonby

PRE PRIDE PARADE

ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAM

ON PONSONBY ROAD 25th February 2017 from 5.30pm - arrive early to watch the spectacle.

KIDS SKATEBOARD RAMPS & JUMPS

UNICYCLISTS

STILT WALKERS

5.00-6.00pm Top of Franklin Rd

5.30-6.30pm Roaming

5.30-6.30pm Roaming

DIAMOND DIVAS - SINGERS Street performance (outside)

DANCE GROUP Street performance (outside)

5.15 pm : SPQR 150 Ponsonby Rd 5.35 pm : Prego 226 Ponsonby Rd 5.55 pm : Mekong Baby

5.30 pm : Richmond Rd 6.00 pm : Prego 226 Ponsonby Rd 6.30 pm : Mekong Baby

262 Ponsonby Rd

262 Ponsonby Rd

ROLLERBLADERS

DRAG QUEENS

RAINBOW FACEPAINTERS

CHEERLEADERS Street performance (outside)

SAMBA DANCERS Street performance (outside)

5.00-6.30pm Ponsonby Rd

6.00-7.00pm Roaming

4.00-7.00pm Roaming

5.30 pm : Prego 226 Ponsonby Rd 5.50 pm : Franklin Rd 6.15 pm : Williamson Ave

6.00 pm : Williamson Ave 6.30 pm : Franklin Rd 7.00 pm : Richmond Rd

http://www.iloveponsonby.co.nz

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OUT + ABOUT

David and Sarah from Campari pictured outside Ponsonby Road Bistro

Josh outside Clothesline

Hadley Pegden with Michaela @ Threads

Tom of Mr Toms

Oak the chef at Saan

Household Linens - Sabine & Alex

Crowd outside Ponsonby Central

Anthony, Shelia & Leila - Freemans Bay Play Centre

Hipstamatics outside Golden Dawn

Sophie outside Bailey Nelson

PONSONY MARKET DAY - 3 DECEMBER 2016

40 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY ‘TOKYO IS CALLING’ Over the next few years, Tokyo is on the hot list as the travel destination to visit. Featured is the Rugby World Cup 2019 followed by the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

In two years, Japan will become the first-ever Asian country to host the Rugby World Cup, the Webb Ellis Cup. Ponsonby locals are already talking plans, and doing it at the dining tables at Tokyo Club, Ponsonby Central.

Where will the games be held? What cities will feature what games? What are the best attractions to visit? As the locals are chipping away at their savings funds for the big events, the biggest questions Sarasa and team at Tokyo Club are getting is about the food.

To many, Japanese cuisine is a favourite. Tokyo Club is one of the closest representations of ‘Izakaya’ cuisine found locally in the yokocho alleys of Tokyo. The Japanese specialist chefs produce many of a vast array of dishes that you’ll be dining on when visiting Japan.

Sarasa can’t believe the talk about the upcoming events.

Many locals have already visited this beautiful country. Many are planning to make this a trip of a lifetime.

“It’s not uncommon to have the All Black front row lining up on the dining bar at Tokyo Club. They love the healthy, lean, protein-based diet that is prepared freshly in front of them. There are many fun representations of Japanese cuisine, but ours is based on PN tradition, and our regulars love it, referring often to their travels to Japan.” F TOKYO CLUB, Ponsonby Central, 4 Brown Street, T: 09 376 8016 www.tokyoclub.co.nz

Matt McEvoy with Paul Little

Getting ready for the Gladiator show

A morning at Grey Lynn Park Festival

Tito & Mirko from Pane & Vino

GREY LYNN FESTIVAL - 26 NOVEMBER 2016 The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

Direct to you from the vineyard Buying wine for a company like Glengarry may sound like a glamorous task, and when I introduce myself at tastings and talk about what I do, I’m always greeted with, ‘how do I get your job?’

Whilst it is thoroughly enjoyable, the part I’ve never quite got to grips with is telling a winemaker that "yes, your wine is very good, but we just don’t have room for it on the shelf." Our shelves do, after all, have a defined capacity and Auckland land prices definitely don’t allow for bigger shops in the convenient locations that ours are in.

This has always been a challenge and one that has escalated of late to the point that we knew we had to do something about it. Adding to that is the fact that Glengarry, as an independent, Kiwi-born and bred enterprise, has always championed the small guys and brought the rarer, more eclectic wines to our customers.

There’s another angle that we were very aware of too, the New Zealand wine industry is a diverse and colourful beast, year by year growing in stature. It has attracted much international investment into the wineries themselves, retail outlets, grocery chains and online operations. A crowded (and sadly, frequently offshore) market. While there’s nothing wrong with this in general terms, it has become increasingly difficult for small New Zealand wineries, (brewers and distillers, too) to fight their way through these often big and bolshie networks and get in front of the consumers. You might also consider that, as in other areas, internationally based control can mean the profits are channelled out of our country rather than into the local economy.

With all this in mind, we decided to be proactive and have opened up the doors to our website of wineries, brewers and distillers outside our normal network. They are now able to deliver directly to you via the Glengarry digital platform. We don’t want to build a wall, we’re breaking one down.

It’s a winning arrangement; when you order this way, you’ll have the customer service and care you normally experience through Glengarry, as we take charge of that for each winery. You’ll be delivered the wine direct from the winery, utilising Glengarry’s extensive logistics experience and capability. Though not coming directly from Glengarry, the goods will be able to be tracked and traced via the Glengarry website and our call centre will know all about them. So we’re talking convenience and ease of mind.

So where’s the downside? There isn’t one. Glengarry has created the ultimate in online retailing sites via a hub that brings the disparate parts of our local industry together. Boutique operations that previously struggled to get to you will now have a vehicle, all gassed up and ready to go. There are no listing fees for suppliers, no hefty sums to be added - it’s about taking down barriers and ensuring that New Zealand’s excellent, but often unheralded wineries, have a local and supportive route to the market.

We launched this just before Christmas, amidst the busiest trading period of the year. Despite that, the uptake from wineries to get involved was overwhelming. A new year and we now have 100 wineries who have joined us online to sell to you direct. Given the interest and success of this to date, we know this is only the beginning and look forward to presenting New Zealand’s most extensive range of quality wine, beer and spirits online.

With no physical limitations, it’s no longer a case of, sorry we can’t fit that on the shelf, more a, let’s do it, let’s sell your great wine to our customers. (LIZ WHEADON) F PN

www.glengarry.co.nz

MOET CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL NEW ZEALANDERS One of the biggest red carpet events on Auckland’s 2016 social calendar, late last year Moët & Chandon’s ‘The Now’ party recognised five successful New Zealanders who are making waves locally and overseas.

'The Now’ honourees include fashion stylist and influencer Jaime Ridge, innovative entrepreneur Kelly Karam - founder of bespoke floral company Blush, CleanPaleo Director Art Green, jewellery designer and founder of Love & Object Constance Cummings and designer Georgia Alice Currie of label Georgia Alice.

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

The honourees have designed bespoke Moët Imperal Ice drinks served to the public at a series of mini pop-ups, with two still to take place in Auckland at Pilkington’s in Shortland Street: 10 February and 3 March from 4pm - 6pm. www.moet.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FACES @ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET Juliana Evans is also known as NZ All-Macs - she creates premium macadamia nuts grown in West Auckland which are available weekly at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market during the season (from October until March).

What products do you make and which are your favourites?

Natural and naturally flavoured macadamia nuts. Honey roasted macadamia nuts: mother nature’s guilt free gift.

How long have you been making your range of macadamia nuts?

Seriously? Since September last year.

Where did you grow up?

I’m pretty sure I haven’t yet - but I went from zero to 26 in Wirral, Cheshire, quite some time ago now.

What’s the biggest business decision you have had to make?

Whether to eat the macadamia chocolate toffee myself or whether to sell it.

What’s your favourite way to relax after work?

Chilling out with my horses and my dog in Woodhill Forest - no noise, no phone, no natter, chatter, clatter - just peace and fresh air.

Where is your favourite New Zealand holiday spot?

My place in Waimauku. Close to the forest and the beach- I simply don’t need to go anywhere else.

What’s your favourite thing about coming to the Grey Lynn Farmers Market?

Just the fact that it’s the quintessential farmers’ market - a happy, lively place full of good people, fantastic produce and a great vibe. F PN

Juliana Evans is photographed with her mother Linda The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY GREY LYNN 2030 STARTS ITS OWN REPAIR CAFÉ What do you do with a broken toaster? Or a bike with a broken spoke? Or a jacket with a broken zip? Toss it? No way!

Grey Lynn 2030 is organising its first Repair Café at St Columba Hall, 92 Surrey Crescent on Saturday 18 February 2017 between 10am and 2pm.

At St Columba Community Hall on Saturday 18 February everything will be centred around making repairs. Starting from 10am and ending at 2pm, various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Small appliances, lamps, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome. And can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.

By promoting repairs, Grey Lynn 2030 wants to help reduce mountains of waste. This is absolutely necessary, according to Colinda Rowe. "We throw away piles of stuff in New Zealand. Even things which practically have nothing wrong with them, and which could easily be used again after a simple repair. Unfortunately, many people have forgotten that they can have things repaired. Repair Café wants to change all that."

Repair Café is also meant to put neighbours in touch with each other in a new way and to discover that a lot of know-how and practical skills can be found close to home. Colinda Rowe: "If you repair a bike, a CD player or a pair of trousers together with a previously unfamiliar neighbour, you look at that person in a different light the next time you run into them on the street. Jointly making repairs can lead to pleasant contacts in the neighbourhood."

Colinda Rowe points out that repairs can save money and resources, and can help minimise CO2 emissions. “But above all, Repair Café just wants to show how much fun repairing things can be, and how easy it often is.”

REPAIR CAFÉ FOUNDATION The Repair Café concept arose in the Netherlands, in 2009, and was formulated by Martine Postma, at the time an Amsterdam-based journalist/publicist. In 2010, she

44 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

started the Repair Café Foundation (see Repaircafe.org). This foundation provides support to local groups around the world wishing to start their own Repair Café. The foundation also supports the Repair Café in Grey Lynn.

Various Repair Cafes are springing up around Auckland and together we hope to start PN bringing Repair Cafés to various suburbs on a regular basis in Auckland. F

SUMMER DAYS And Kelmarna Gardens is exploding with life. So they need volunteers to keep on top of things!

Do you have any spare time during the weekdays? Would you like to gain experience in a certified organic garden? There’s a range of jobs for the complete beginner to experienced. Join them for a free, healthy lunch fresh from the garden. Share in the seasonal produce. And feel good that you’re outside and making a difference. They’re also still in the redesign phase so if you’re interested in landscaping or building you can try that out too.

Send an email or stop by and say hi to Adrian the Garden Manager. They’d also like to update their volunteer email list. If you like to be added to a specific list, please forward this email to (kelmarnagardens@gmail.com) with ‘Volunteer Gardening’, ‘Volunteer Labouring’, ‘Volunteer Other’ or let them know what interests you most.

For those interested in volunteer gardening they will be running upskilling workshops in PN the new year. www.kelmarnagardens.nz F

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FEBRUARY 2017

The MONTH of LOVE!!

Nothing says “I love youâ€? more, than taking Your partner to AdamArnold for (-Ń´;mাm;Ä˝v 7-‹ ); -u; o@;ubm] - v;| l;m† =ou ŨƓƒ r;u r;uvomÄś bm1Ѳ†7bm] - ]Ѳ-vv o= 0†00Ѳ;v

Dishes are as follows :

EntrĂŠe Grilled halloumi with tabbouleh u -m1;‚- ‰u-rr;7 u-‰mv ‰b|_ "-@uom -boŃ´b Main -m ";-u;7 +;Ń´Ń´o‰ bm $†m- v|;-h ‰b|_ ";v-l; 1u†v| -m7 bm];u -m7 "o‹ ]Ń´-ÂŒ; Or Roasted Aubergine with Beetroot Puree and Tomato chutney u Ć?Ć? o†u u-bv;7 ;;= _;;h ‰b|_ -uvŃ´;‹ "rbh;7 oŃ´;m|- -m7 -uŃ´b1 u;;mv ";uˆ;7 ‰b|_ !ov;l-u‹ !o-v| o|-|o;v |o v_-u; Dessert †u =-lo†v 7;v;u| rŃ´-|; v;uˆ;7 |o v_-u;

171c Ponsonby Road, Auckland / 093611619 / www.adamarnold.co.nz

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PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY @ SABATO Surprise your Valentine with our gorgeous range of Valrhona or Maglio chocolates, decadent Leone sweets and irresistible Spanish and Italian nougat.

OUR FRIENDLY LOCAL - THE GREY LYNN TAVERN An old fashioned pub with friendly service.

Or why not pick up one of our gourmet hampers and take your loved one on a picnic?

For a romantic dinner try finishing the meal with Valrhona Verrines - it’s the ultimate Valentine’s Day dessert.

The Grey Lynn Tavern has been based on Great North Road in the Grey Lynn shops for 15 or so years. The current owners have been running the pub for the last 10 years. It is simply an old fashioned pub with friendly service.

Valrhona Verrines - Serves 4 220g Valrhona Kalingo, Manjari or Guanaja chocolate Sea salt 220g full cream milk 1 black cardamom pod, cracked 1 free range egg 2 oranges, juiced 1 /8 tsp orange blossom water 20g sugar 1 green cardamom pod, cracked 1 punnet strawberries, hulled and quartered Colonna mandarin infused extra virgin olive oil Fennel fronds

As owners Grant and Ellie tell us, “We love to welcome newcomers. We also have a pool table and many of our customers love to watch Sky Sports especially if there is something good on. We have nine Pokie machines with new games and for those who need it we have Eftpos available. Could we please ask PN readers to like our Facebook page?”

Place chocolate and a pinch of salt in a heatproof bowl set above a saucepan of simmering water to melt the chocolate. Stir until smooth. In a saucepan, place milk and black cardamom and bring to a simmer. Strain and then pour over the chocolate, stirring until smooth. In a clean bowl, lightly whisk the egg and then add to the buffalo milk and chocolate. Return to the saucepan over a medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches 75°C. Take off the heat and pour the mixture into four glasses. Place on a tray in the fridge. In a small saucepan, place orange juice, orange blossom, sugar and green cardamom. Simmer for three minutes or until the juice clarifies. Leave to cool in the fridge. Gently mix the strawberries through the chilled syrup and spoon over the top of the set chocolate. Garnish with mandarin oil and fennel fronds.

PN © Recipe by Tom Hishon, Orphans Kitchen. F

What nights is Texas Holdem Poker on? Texas Holdem is on Wednesday evenings but we also hold large tournaments every few months. Is every night Karaoke night? Karaoke is on Friday nights starting at 8pm.

For more summer recipe ideas visit us in-store or on our website www.sabato.co.nz SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 8751

GREY LYNN TAVERN, 521-523 Great North Road, T: 09 376 6521

What beer brands are your most popular? We carry Dominion Brewery, Lion plus a range of independent liquor brands. We also stock cider, which is very popular over summer.

Our locals often love to sit outside on our sun-drenched deck.

What type of functions do you hold? We are used by sports clubs and groups wanting to have either fundraising or themed functions as well as locals wanting to come and enjoy a good night.

As one customer, Hannah JV who reviewed the pub on Yelp, says, “The Grey Lynn Tavern is unpretentious, the drinks are cheap and the calibre of the Karaoke singers isn’t actually all that bad!”

New hours: Sunday, Monday and Tuesday 11am-9pm and Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11am-12 midnight. F PN

John Elliott and Francois Botha at The Grey Lynn Tavern - June 2013

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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A n O ld F as hi on ed L oc al P ub W i th F ri en dl y S er vi ce

FUNCTIONS POKIES – 3 JACKPOTS TEXAS HOLDEM POKER KARAOKE NIGHTS LIVE SKY SPORTS SUNNY NORTH FACING DECK Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 11am - midnight Sunday – Tuesday 11am - 9pm Ample parking | Eftpos available

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ARE YOU OVER 18 YEARS OLD? BRING THIS VOUCHER IN TO RECEIVE

521/523 Great North Road | 09 376 6521 e: greylynntavern@xtra.co.nz LIKE US The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

$5

OFF YOUR FIRST DRINK

+ February2017 Valid until NEWS 28 February PONSONBY 2017

47

GARY STEEL: VEG FRIENDLY

Little piggies Why we need to get over seasonal guilt?

As usual, throughout January we were bombarded with news media and social media posts (and shares) egging us on to participate in purging our bad selves of all that rich food we’ve no doubt succumbed to during the festive and holiday season, and urging us take action with a variety of dietary trends.

Whether we’re overtly religious or not, binging and dieting is a poisonous tributary of the religious mindset, a carryon of the silly thought that we have to make good for our sins (stuffing our faces with food) by suffering (taking on increasingly ridiculous diets that don’t really work, but do make you miserable). It’s the great push/pull con of modern day consumerism, the idea that thou shalt suffer for one’s wanton indulgence!

But what never gets any press is the idea of simply eating well and enjoying yourself, and not suffering the consequences of over-indulgence. I guess it’s not a story, because if it really caught on, the diet industry would be dead in the water, and we’d have to find something else to feel the guilt over. Too much shopping? Tell an addiction counsellor. Too much television? Run a marathon! Too much sex? Tell a priest!

Walk down Ponsonby Road - or indeed anywhere in the area covered by this esteemed publication - and you’ll quickly notice that people look pretty good. By and large, they’re not morbidly obese. But walk down the streets of Otahuhu, or any small town, and it’s impossible not to notice the difference. We’re lucky enough to live in an area where there’s real consciousness about food. That means we know about the art of making and buying delicious and exquisite food, and there’s hardly a fried chicken outlet to be seen. We also know that bodies need some exercise, and that cultivation of deliciousness ultimately leads to better health, not more calories.

Sadly, that’s not the case in the regions. Walk down the main street in a rural township like Helensville or Dargaville, and you’ll see what I mean. Isn’t it odd that while so much of the produce that feeds the main urban centres comes from the country, those country folk themselves don’t appear to be looking after their health, or developing any real perspective on consumption of food?

Interestingly, the continued evolution of ideas about what we eat needs to be a two-way street between rural producers and 'townies'. While an exceptional Ponsonby restaurant might create a spike in demand for (for instance) some herb or spice that’s never been grown in quantities in New Zealand, growers themselves sometimes have to take the bull by the horns (so to speak) and help to create demand for good ideas.

While farmers are regularly portrayed as retrograde rednecks, I was gratified the other day to read of a Northland fruit and nut farmer who bucks the stereotype. Perry Allen is - of all things - a former butcher who keeps kunekune pigs to keep the areas around the trees clear of weeds. He’s fallen in love with the wee porcines to the extent that it’s made him reassess his relationship to the animal world, and is considering becoming vegan.

PN Now that’s what I call a positive outcome. (GARY STEEL) F

Gary Steel is an Auckland-based journalist who runs online vegetarian resource www.doctorfeelgood.co.nz He can be contacted via beautmusic@gmail.com

PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY?

What I did in the holidays - a visit to Languedoc-Roussillon As part of a family trip to Europe last July, we spent a week in stonkingly hot (45C) southern France with three days based in Carcassonne.

Venturing out of our air-conditioned Airbnb apartment to take wine tours with a local boutique operator, we covered two local appellations - Corbières and Minervois.

Languedoc-Roussillon for many years was regarded as a bulk producer of cheap and not very good wine. The European ‘wine lake’ phenomenon of the 1980s was largely due to hyperproduction from this very region. However, things have changed. Modern winemaking techniques have resulted in much better quality wine, and some boutique wineries are stepping away from the hidebound French appellation rules and growing non-traditional varieties such as cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir.

The hot, dry region grows approximately 75% red grapes including carignan, grenache, cinsault, mourvèdre, syrah and merlot. Whites include a number of obscure varieties like clairette, rolle and picpoul and a few standards such as muscat, viognier and chardonnay.

Languedoc boasts 320 days of sunshine and I can confirm that there is sun - and a lot of it. Most days when we exited the Airbnb we would subconsciously head straight for the shady cool side of the street. Local history is quite fascinating and sadly barbaric. An 11th Century heretical Christian sect known as Cathars flourished and built many churches, becoming the majority religion in many places in the region. Within a hundred years, they were ruthlessly persecuted and exterminated by the mainstream Catholic church.

Sorry to kill the holiday atmosphere. Anyhoo - here we go with some ab fab local wines.

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

Château Tourens Minervois Languedoc-Roussillon 2013 - $16.40 Typically French and a tad rustic, it has slightly dusty aromas with prune and plums. In the mouth it’s plummy, savoury and earthy with soft tannins and hints of rhubarb and liquorice.

Medium bodied and soft. Match with mushroom risotto.

Availability - Regional Wines & Spirits Wellington.

Gérard Gertrand Corbières 2013 - $28.00 Robust and chunky red. Smells like cedar, anise and black plums. Tastes like a medium to big tannic red with flavours of plums, Christmas cake, and dark Ghana chocolate. Long finish of savoury spice and tannin. Availability - Caro’s Wines.

Château Olliex Romanis Corbières 2014 - purchased in France A renowned label in the Corbières appellation, fab and Bordeaux-like, this is a blend of four local grapes - carignan, grenache, mourvedre and syrah. Very full, soft, ripe and juicy, it’s slightly gamey with aromas of leather and savoury spices.

Flavours of cassis, black plums, bouquet garni and roast meat.

Dry, lengthy finish with fine tannins.

(PHIL PARKER) F PN Phil Parker is a wine writer and operates Fine Wine & Food Tours in Auckland. See: www.finewinetours.co.nz Phil’s new cellar door book ‘NZ Wine Regions - A Visitor’s Guide’ is now available on Amazon Kindle.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

STEAK YOUR CLAIM! LUNCH FOR 2 - $85

Includes 2 mains + 2 sides + 2 glasses of wine Booking is essential

Available for lunch Wednesday to Friday from 12pm to 2pm only. Offer applies to selected products only, please call the restaurant or ask your waiter for more information. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. Only applies to Jervois Steak House Auckland.

Available for a limited time. To receive this offer book and pay via www.jervoissteakhouse.co.nz/bookings/book-auckland/.

70 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland | Ph (09) 376 2049 | www.jervoissteakhouse.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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JULIE BONNER: NEWS FROM FROG POND FARM Can you believe that it is February already?

How is your garden growing? My zucchini, sad to say, just haven’t hit their strides yet.

The plants are relatively small and the production line isn’t much better. As for my tomatoes, they look ridiculous, spindly, scraggy things, with fruit that seems to rot rather than ripen; so much for the baking soda spray. All is not bad though, we have beans for Africa, gorgeous tasty dwarf and runner beans, loads of cucumbers, Maori spuds (by the time you read this we will be enjoying them boiled with butter and parsley), lettuces, beetroot, herbs and more herbs. Of course we can’t forget the flowers, which I have growing in with those veggies, zinnia, cosmos, calendula, chamomile, marigold, lavender and the ever-bossy feverfew. All these blooms are so good at encouraging beneficial insects and wonderful to waste time gloating over.

Hubby dug up our self-seeded elephant garlic (I shan’t tell the vampires it isn’t the real stuff), which resides next to a raised garden bed conveniently located next to our forest.

This garden is a fair distance from the house, making TLC hard to deliver to the local residents; yacon and a solitary pumpkin that regularly screams for water.

Speaking of that, we had such a wet winter, followed by a damp, windy spring and a summer that hasn’t exactly been typical, so it’s not surprising that our orchard is out of sorts. The peach crop is much smaller than previous years, the quince tree has only a handful of fruit and rusty leaves, a pear tree has forgotten to fruit and my pathetic attempt at spraying the apple tree with neem oil hasn’t worked, the woolly aphids are still happily residing there. I’m not sure if you are familiar with these little suckers, but thankfully there is only one apple tree, which they are calling home. The plums are disappointing too, with the exception of the damson, which is smothered! More jams and jellies are on the way.

We packed up and moved here about 13 years ago - goodbye high heels and hello gumboots! Regrets? None whatsoever, although I have to be honest, the social life changed overnight. As happens when you live in the country though, the sense of community is strong so it was all hands on deck early January when we hauled in 620 hay bales for a great neighbour, Karen. These were transported down hills and safely ensconced in her barn, which eventually was heaving at the seams. There is nothing like the smell of fresh hay, which I dutifully shared with my chickens, packing the sweet smelling stuff into their nest boxes.

Did I tell you about our latest acquisitions? We now have four Coronation Sussex chickens.

The youngsters are about 20 weeks old now and were purchased as hens. In saying that, I have my doubts about one of them who is starting to resemble a rooster! It looks like my chooks might not be devoid of a man after all.

The holidays were also busy checking on a neighbour’s animals while she was away.

Making sure that the sheep were all happy and feeding a lamb whose mother just didn’t have quite enough milk for two. Some jobs are so much better than others aren’t they.

My father-in-law Bill is back from the United Kingdom for his yearly visit. I’m sure you will know if you have been reading my blog that he is a whizz in the kitchen and even better at making jams and jellies - funny about that. Happy gardening. (JULIE BONNER) F PN If you are interested in more news from our place or perhaps some gardening tips then visit my blog www.frogpondfarm.co.nz

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY EL SIZZLING LOMITO - INNOVATIVE ARGENTINEAN CUISINE Well loved by locals, El Sizzling Butchery, located inside El Sizzling Lomito, not only drives the offerings for both of their restaurants, but also caters to the home cook with its wide selection of products.

Passionate about real, wholesome food, all their meat is prepared and butchered on-site where any special cuts can be tailored to your order. They focus on sourcing the best New Zealand produce while also keeping the meat antibiotic and hormone free, making their product very appealing. It is presented in an accessible way, with knowledgeable staff that will help you select the perfect cut of meat for your culinary needs.

In their endeavour to capture the essence of the Argentine fare ‘El Sizzling Lomito’ takes pride in delivering seasonal, sustainable, innovative Argentinean cuisine with the best local ingredients and takes pleasure in sharing their love for food, wine and good company.

Their restaurant specialty is the lomito, a generous slab of perfectly cooked steak with chimichurri on bread. The sandwich is packed with great flavours and textures that combine the smoke's perfume from the barbecue with naturally organic ingredients.

Melted provolone cheese, caramelised onions, grilled capsicum and herbed mayonnaise are just some of the ingredients you can find in these simple yet effective sandwiches that will satisfy the inner carnivore in us.

Whether you’re looking for a casual bite for lunch or relax over their signature 450g dry aged T-bone steak, they've got you covered! F PN EL SIZZLING LOMITO, 309 Karangahape Road, T: 09 336 1339, www.facebook.com/elsizzlinglomito/

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DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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ROSS THORBY: SEA FEVER

Panama - not just a big ditch You couldn't transit the Panama Canal without reflecting on the 19th Century vision that created it.

Built across the slender Isthmus of Panama, its Atlantic entrance is close to where it is said that Colombus first landed in the 1500s.

Unfortunately, he was looking for, and thought that he had found, India, so mistakenly named the local natives Indians. A mistake that still stands today.

Ever since its discovery, it was mooted as a site for a canal. In 1881 a contract was given to Ferdinand De Lesseps who began digging a sea level canal straight through the isthmus, a strategic error which resulted in a loss of 22,000 lives and the financial ruin of all those involved.

The project was abandoned in 1889, but his original entrance can still be viewed today from ships entering the locks from the Atlantic side. It is a sad indictment of mismanagement and of a grandiose scheme that was subsequently a sinkhole for money and lives.

In 1902 however, America purchased the rights to the project and successfully dynamited their way through the jungle, moving 240 million cubic yards of earth and creating one of the world’s greatest and most scenic waterways.

Doing away with the original plan for a sea level canal, the Americans built huge 100ft high gates to guard a series of locks that would enclose ships whilst raising and lowering them in a series of steps up to what would be the world’s largest man-made lake, 85 feet above sea level.

The canal was finally opened in 1914.

Today a transit through the canal is one of the most thrilling shipboard experiences to be enjoyed from the luxury and comfort of a five-star environment, while sailing alongside thick jungle inhabited by colourful birdlife and primates that are normally only seen in a zoo.

At the canal entrance, whilst stationed at the bow of our ship, we watched a small dingy row out to us. A rope was thrown down then attached to one of the locomotives that would drag us into a 'pen' before guiding us through the subsequent locks then out into the canal proper. The only evidence of our motion, was our shadow reaching further and further out over the landscape as we progressed higher from level to level.

A series of the original whistles, bells and old-fashioned, hand-manipulated arrows, guided the Canal Pilot who was tentatively herding us through the long concrete ditches past walls soaring only a few inches away from the superstructure of our home away from home. It was too tempting an opportunity to pass up and many of us leaned out to let our hands brush over the the rough surface of concert, steel and protruding giant rivets as the canal walls passed by.

Once out of the first series of locks, we sailed languidly along by the river banks, the slow movement of the ship creating barely a ripple in the water as we gazed at passing mountains scarred by man-hewn terracing and abandoned, rusting and ancient machinery being consumed now by the jungle.

The water changes to a murky brown as it snakes through the valley, the vista blocked occasionally by various bridges that link both sides to reconnect the South American Continent back together again. Big band-aids set to heal the gaping wound left in the earth.

Ten years ago on my previous transit, we had watched monkeys jump from tree to tree and reptilian caiman slither into the water as we passed. Today all eyes were peeled, looking in the hope of seeing them again or even Panama’s 20ft crocodiles that regularly bathe along the banks, causing consternation to workers who are tasked with the dredging and widening of the canal.

You would have to be a hardy soul to live here in the jungle. One such resident is Manuel Noriega who lives in the Renacer Prison above the banks. The climate is sultry and wet - we pass by the jail, its mouldy and shabby exterior peeking out of the jungle-strewn undergrowth; we wonder if he is watching us watching him...

Eventually some eight hours after we started, we reached out from the channel into a big blue expanse. There was nothing between us and New Zealand, but the deep blue of the Pacific as we left one of the wonders of the modern world behind us.

PN Once more the world awes me. (ROSS THORBY) F

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

Driving with Aoife As a Kiwi visiting Ireland a couple of weeks after an historic All Blacks' defeat, I was prepared for a bit of ribbing. That happened. A lot.

I was also prepared for generous, gregarious, funny locals, plenty to talk about and too much to drink. That happened a lot as well.

However, arriving at the end of November, I was not prepared for glorious, bright, clear skies, the soft, golden glow of the late autumn sun bouncing off weathered stone and quiet, crisp, still, frosty mornings turning the countryside into a sparkling wonderland.

I was travelling with my dearest friend, Fiona (she hates the term ‘oldest’), and after a couple of days exploring Dublin on foot we headed across country in a small rental car guided by a somewhat temperamental GPS we affectionately named ‘Aoife’. Aoife was regularly on the receiving end of some earthy swear words as we turned down yet another overgrown one-way track requiring careful manoeuvring and quiet curses as we met a vehicle coming the other way, but, in hindsight, she also took us to breathtakingly beautiful parts of the country we really would not have seen otherwise, so thank you lass.

Staying in the Manor Houses of Ireland, our accommodation throughout was charming, luxurious, cosy and authentic. At this time of year, deep leather armchairs can be pulled up close to roaring open fires, Christmas trees glitter, while endless cups of tea or pints of Guinness supplement the lively chat from both residents and locals.

Mount Falcon near Ballina in Co Mayo has been lovingly restored by the owner, Shane, who also tells a grand tale of love and loss around the estate. An up-close and personal encounter with the falcons, owls and ferrets was a special highlight. Gloriously named, Ballynahinch and Ballyseede Castles are an impressive sight, both set in beautiful estates looking over tree-studded fields, manicured gardens and even a winding river where you can try to hook a trout.

We roughly followed a section of the Wild Atlantic Way, a network of roads, walking and cycle paths that stretches 2500km along the west coast. Magnificent sea and landscapes, captivating villages, inviting pubs and restaurants, legends and stories pepper the route; stopping to explore often resulted in long conversations and much laughter with a local or two.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

A bright but freezing afternoon in the coastal fishing town of Dingle had us reaching for our thick jackets and scarves while a young man in shorts and gumboots laughed at us saying ‘you’ll get used to it’. I think not. This delightful little place was bursting with Christmas lights and happy crowds wandering among the bright array of shops so in no time we were swept away with the festive atmosphere and pretty location.

We reached Cork and our departing flight far too soon. I will admit the only thing I was ready to farewell was Aoife.

Sláinte - you gorgeous place and you gorgeous people. I’ll be back soon.

PN (KATE GOHAR, WORLD JOURNEYS) F

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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1. Ponsonby residents holidaying in BERMUDA - the island is about to host the America's Cup. L to R: Dean, Isabella and Vivien Kite.

2. Greg Davidson is a Kiwi who lives in Shanghai. He is pictured with his colleagues Shi Shengyue and Kang Erliang on a camping trip at Murphys, MATATA. "It's the best camping ground in New Zealand, run by Shane and Becs".

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

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MEET THE TEAM @ HELLOWORLD How does the idea of sitting in an infinity pool with a cocktail in hand watching the sunset somewhere in the South Pacific sound?

Or what about witnessing first-hand a lion hunt its prey while on safari in Africa?

Turning your dreams into reality is something the team at helloworld Ponsonby have the passion and experience to do. Whether you’re planning a luxury escape, a quick break or the adventure of a lifetime, helloworld Ponsonby is here for you every step of the way.

February marks 12 months as helloworld Ponsonby, formerly known as Harvey World Travel. To mark this occasion there are going to be some amazing in-store specials that will enable you to embark on any of the above experiences, or something else from your travel bucket list.

The team at helloworld Ponsonby have substantial experience, and have travelled the globe several times over between them. helloworld has been locally owned and managed by Nan for the last 10 years. He has travelled extensively throughout the world via train, plane and ship, from organised tours to off the beaten track itineraries.

Caroline has a fascination with cultures and will always have the time to impart her knowledge, to help take you on the journey before you have even left the store and packed your bags.

Our soon-to-be-mum Leisa has travelled to over 30 countries already and loves the diverse nature of Bali, Japan, Myanmar and America.

Our newest team members, Ben and Shareen, bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise in all facets of travel.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Ben is new to New Zealand, having arrived here via 51 other countries. He has extensive knowledge and amazing recall of the countries he’s visited. Heralding from the High Veldt, Ben is in the perfect position to advise you on the great adventures that await you in Africa.

Shareen is back behind a travel desk in Ponsonby, and is eager to connect with new clients and reconnect with old, as she rebuilds her presence in the excitement and buzz that is Ponsonby. helloworld Ponsonby has a team member that can fulfill any traveller’s needs, and can also offer you the flexibility and advantages of AMEX Membership Rewards, Fly Buys and QCard.

The team has attention to detail and their commitment to their customers means they always have the travelers' needs in mind, ensuring the quality of an experience is not impacted by their budget.

They are looking forward to welcoming you to their bright and engaging store at 221 Ponsonby Road where they will be able to exceed your expectations and turn your dreams into reality...

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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FASHION + STYLE: JULIE ROULSTON

New & noteworthy “Fashion keeps me designing: the love of change, the idea that the next one will be the right on the nonstop dialogue” - Karl Lagerfeld.

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Staple + Cloth kimono $219 www.stapleandcloth.co.nz Ruby tee $99 and skirt $199 www.rubynz.com Moochi hat $199.99 www.moochi.co.nz Twenty-seven names dress $390 www.twentysevennames.co.nz Meadowlark earrings from $1059 www.meadowlark.co.nz Taylor jumpsuit $547 www.taylorboutique.co.nz Moochi dress $259.99 www.moochi.co.nz Scotch & Soda @ Goodness dress $399 www.goodness.co.nz Ruby top $169 and pant $249 www.rubynz.com Staple + Cloth dress $299 www.stapleandcloth.co.nz Meadowlark choker from $1449 www.meadowlark.co.nz Scotch & Soda @ Goodness top $399 www.goodness.co.nz Ruby tee $169, pant $249 and heels $299 www.rubynz.com Marle hoodie $250 www.marle.co.nz Marle top $150 www.marle.co.nz

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PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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

VERMONT STREET, PONSONBY 15 FEBRUARY 1925

Dear Lizzie, How are you my dear? Have you returned yet from your wee cottage on the

of all, she’d bought me a superb new bow! I was so pleased with the sound

peninsula? I imagine the roses are looking gorgeous, especially after all that

that I decided that I would treat myself to some lessons in the New Year

seaweed we dressed them with last autumn. How is that divine-smelling rose

to brush up and then try and find a little group to play with on occasion.

going; the magenta-coloured one that we found growing wild up in the hills?

I’ve found a lovely tutor and she lives not very far from me. Her name is

If it’s flowering, would you mind pressing a couple for my dried flower album?

Mary Steinert [iii] and she’s very charming and a very intelligent teacher. She

They’re a lovely memento of happy times. Even when dried, I find the scents

picked up quickly on the little faults that used to niggle me and I swear that

still have the power to evoke memories of people and places.

I’ve never played so well. What’s wonderful is that she has two other adult pupils and they are agreeable to forming a little trio with me! We’re sorting

I’m writing to you from Mrs Gavin’s tea room [i] which is to be my refuge for

out our sheet music at the moment to find suitable pieces. As Clara (one of the

the next hour while I await the completion of the painting and papering of my

trio) has a gramophone player, the three of us have been meeting at five on

living room. We had a terrible downpour a week ago and of course my roof

a Tuesday afternoon for sherry and music appreciation. We’re going through

sprang a leak right behind my chesterfield sofa, ruining my pretty wallpaper.

Bach’s violin concerti at the moment. We started with Paganini which was

Happily, the sofa was undamaged and the water hadn’t quite reached my

a bit too adventurous - none of us could follow the music fast enough and

carpet square when I discovered the leak. The paper was getting a little shabby

abandoned the reading for more sherry and silent appreciation of his frenetic

so I’m not terribly sad about replacing it. However, I had grown to

playing, interrupted by the occasional clinking of our glasses. I must say that I’m really enjoying this as it is so different to what I usually do that it

love the colourings that it had faded to. I managed to

feels like a little holiday. I feel quite refreshed when I enter

find a very pretty paper with dear little birds hopping

my workroom on a Wednesday morning!

amongst wisteria-entwined trellis which will look so pretty with my olive green velveteen suite. I’ve selected a plain olive green border paper for the space above the

Well my dear, it’s nearing lunch time so I think I’d

picture rail. I have to tell you Lizzie that I developed

better leave my table to be tidied before the next

the most awful headache only 10 minutes after my

round of customers. I don’t want to outdo my

man started pasting the walls. I’m not sure what’s

welcome and get on the wrong side of Mrs Gavin.

in that glue but it didn’t agree with me at all. I’m

That just wouldn’t do - where else in Ponsonby

trying a Ladies Mirror remedy which does seem to

would I find such wonderful little Queen cakes to

be working, even if it isn’t the most pleasant of cures!

have with my tea!

It involves crushing up some mustard leaves and rubbing the mix behind one’s ears and on the nape

While my new paper is drying (and the smell hopefully

of the neck. It feels rather disagreeable and I suspect is

dispersing), my beau George is going to take me

supposed to be accompanied by a lie down with an icy

boating. It’s such a lovely day for it - blue skies, no wind

cloth on one’s forehead rather than taking tea in public.

(which means no waves), and nice and warm. Not far from where he lives is the idyllic Curran Street beach

Oh Lizzie - I have heard an exciting rumour that the

where someone has had the good idea to hire out

fabulous amusement park at the South Seas Exhibition

little rowing boats [iv]. George might even drop a line in - I might have fresh fish for my dinner!

that you told me about, might be coming to Auckland! [ii]

The author of the rumour is a customer of mine and her husband is

apparently one of the investors in the new venture. She wouldn’t tell me where

Please do write soon with all your news - and hopefully a pressed flower

it was going to be built except that it will be at the seaside. The terrifying roller

or two.

coaster that you told me about will definitely be part of the park! I don’t know

built, you might finally be persuaded to come up and visit me!

Did you make any New Year resolutions Lizzie? I wasn’t going to, as I usually break them within the week, but I did make one. As you know, I played violin when I was younger, and only really stopped practising when I was about 15. I can’t remember why I stopped, but pressure from Mother needling me about practising when all I wanted to do was read and embroider probably had something to do with it. Well, you’ll never guess what happened! I’m not sure what prompted it - a little mother/daughter intuition perhaps - but Mother presented me with my old violin for Christmas! She’d had it repaired, cleaned and restrung and had even bought a new leather case for it. Best

+ February NEWS 2017+ 58 PONSONBY PONSONBY PARISH NEWS

With much love,

Maudie xx [i] Ellen Gavin operated a florist shop and tea rooms from 18 Jervois Road, Ponsonby (1925)

The Auckland Amusement Park Ltd had 2 Provisional Directors based in Auckland - Alexander Burt and John Arthur Holloway - Prospectus, Auckland Star, 13 August 1926, p.11

[ii]

Miss Mary Steinert, Teacher of Violin, 14 Williamson Avenue, Ponsonby (1922) [iii]

[iv]

Rogers pleasure rowing boats for hire, Curran Street Beach, Ponsonby (1922)

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

illustration: Michael McClintock

whether to be excited or terrified as George will definitely want me to ride that with him! We’ll wait and see. I’ll let you know more as I hear - perhaps if it is

FASHION + STYLE VALENTINE’S DAY - MOST ROMANTIC DAY OF THE YEAR Choose a gift that she will love. Thinking of the right Valentine’s Day gift can be very overwhelming for the jewellery gifting novice.

If you think it’s time you bestow a special Valentine’s Day gift upon your loved one, then it probably is.

Giving that first special piece of jewellery can be exciting, but it can also be a landmine of potential mistakes. Take rings, for instance. If you’re not ready to get engaged, then presenting her with a ring box on the most romantic day of the year could be problematic (you might actually make her mad if she’s expecting a proposal!). You may want to steer clear of rings unless you are ready to get engaged.

Diamond earrings are a classic, timeless gift. With many different styles, sizes and grades of diamonds to choose from, they can make for the perfect option.

Diamond necklaces are also an excellent choice for almost any Valentine’s Day situation.

Whether you have been married for a while or dating for a year, there are many different styles and price points to choose from.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Married for a while and getting the feeling she’s long overdue for a really special Valentine’s Day gift? Go all out with a pair of diamond earrings or a classic diamond tennis bracelet.

For a truly memorable Valentine’s Day gift, consider a diamond solitaire necklace. Available in an endless array of carat weights and styles, the traditionalist in her will love it and she’ll be able to wear it with any outfit.

And remember, diamond jewellery does make for a lovely heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation. Diamonds on Richmond has a large selection of gift PN options at all price points. F DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND, 98 Richmond Road or www.diamondsonrichmond.co.nz

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL FASHION LOVE

Local designer: Helene Morris, Lonely It’s interesting to note that two of the most beautiful stores in the Ponsonby retail precinct come without any screaming street frontage: Curio Noir and Lonely.

What lies behind the doors of both is something very special however, and their elegant, understated and unique approach is what makes them stand out from the crowd.

With an offering that encompasses lingerie, swimwear and womenswear, the impeccably crafted Lonely label was founded by Helene Morris and partner Steve Ferguson around 14 years ago. Their aforementioned Ponsonby flagship store on Mackelvie Street arrived in 2014, with its window-sized piece of marble a discreet yet statement-making frontage hinting at the beauty within.

The fitout was the work of multi-disciplinary designer Rufus Knight in collaboration with Lonely CEO Steve, and has been called the physical embodiment of the brand’s thoughtprovoking aesthetic. It comes complete with sparkling water on tap and refreshingly spacious fitting rooms, which are such an essential for me when lingerie and swimwear are in the mix. Its design saw Knight awarded the top award in his field at The Designers Institute of New Zealand, Best Design Awards (the annual showcase of excellence in graphic, spatial, product and interactive design) 2015, picking up a Purple Pin in Spatial Discipline, the supreme award for that area. He also won two Gold Pins - for retail design and standout emerging designer. The judging panel said the Lonely Ponsonby store has a "superb, international quality fitout that would hold its own in any fashion district."

When I speak to Lonely designer and co-founder Helene, she tells me opening the store was a natural progression “to be able to give our customers a complete experience. The online experience can only deliver so much, and to be able to feel garments, try them on in an environment that reflects our values and aesthetic was something that we felt strongly that we wanted to do.” I ask her if there were ever moments of hesitation before putting the store’s bold design into motion, and get the perfect answer: “I think we have always loved challenging people, stereotypes and been confident in doing so,” says the designer. “I think rather than being hesitant we were really excited to show people that there is another way to create and enjoy the instore ‘physical’ retail experience.”

They have also maintained a very clear vision about what they wanted their globally successful, much loved Lonely lingerie brand to be all about, as in: "no padding, no pushups, no G-strings." The photographic phenomenon known as the Lonely Girls Project was launched not long after the lingerie label, and has become one of the key identifiers of the brand. It shows real customers and lovers of the brand wearing the lingerie, and was a direct reaction to traditional lingerie imagery. Helene has said in the past the goal was to "empower women, make them realise that they don't have to be a certain way to feel beautiful,” and it has been a consistently glorious, runaway success. More women

60 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

are being discovered and photographed all the time, and Helene tells me “it’s incredible how it has connected the brand with women from all over the world. We are really proud of what we have achieved with it so far.”

The Lonely girls are body confident and amazingly diverse, but often still quite young.

I ask if there are plans to feature older Lonely fans too, to which I get a definite yes. “We tend not to define age as a boundary for our customers,” says the designer, “but often we do find younger women more eager to come forward. Continuing to define our version of diversity is something we are passionate about.”

Next, talk turns to their newest collection for winter, which starts to drop into store in February. Helene says the ready-to-wear line features earthy coffee and tan tones alongside soft pastels, with splashes of bold marigold and ketchup colours that pop and dance. “We have worked with local artist Sarah Larnach and developed embroideries for our knitwear,” she continues, “and have repeated our popular wrap cardis in soft, pastel coloured mohair.” Their super popular, amazingly wearable swimwear collection has grown steadily over the past 18 months, and the new range has more new styles including soft rib wrapped pieces and a fresh take on their incredibly popular ‘Dita’ story which every woman I know seems to own several pieces from. The lingerie range seasonal update features beautiful chartreuse European lace, new spider web halter styles, “and we also have grown our collection of more simple-shaped styles, my favourite being the Lena,” says Helene. This style was named after ‘Girls’ writer and star, Lena Dunham “who has been incredibly supportive of Lonely in the past year. We have also increased our size range to include 16 bands, which is a really exciting development.”

Last up I ask: what is the next immediate plan for Lonely, are any more stores being planned?

“We have such an amazing team and really hope that together we can expand our experience and product further, both in New Zealand and beyond,” says Helene, and with their track record thus far, you just know that’s a given. (HELENE RAVLICH) F PN www.lonelylabel.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE MORE THAN JUST...

Not just pretty, but newly certified ethical: new season bags from New Zealand-designed label Mooi.

Available from Shut the Front Door, STORM, and Staple and Cloth.

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1. Natalie in Grey + Silver $224.25; 2. Sophie Brown Bok + Hazelnut $281.75; 3. Sophie Grey Crocodile $263.25; 4. Summer Grey Bok $405 www.mooistore.com

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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FASHION + STYLE RETAIL SUPERSTAR Beatrix de Langen - Storm

How did you come to be a retail salesperson?

I have always loved fashion, staying up with the latest trends and meeting new people.

Working in retail offers these opportunities on a daily basis, so it was a quick and easy decision for me to apply for salesperson roles. After meeting with the manager of Storm at the time, I knew I would learn and develop valuable interpersonal skills working alongside her and the retail team.

nails on richmond Back on...

Richmond Road 2/386 Richmond Road Grey Lynn 09 360 1950

What brought you to Storm?

A number of years ago I got a job modelling for Storm Clothing. During the shoot I tried on numerous outfits, and got a really good insight into the brand itself and the quality of the clothing. So when I noticed a job vacancy at the Storm on Ponsonby Road, I immediately sent my CV in with the hope to represent the brand again.

What do you love about your store?

I love our fashion forward and friendly team. Storm Ponsonby always finds the right outfit for anyone and everyone that walks in the door. Aside from this, our new location on the corner of Ponsonby Road and Mackelvie Street allows us two full facades of glazing, which gives the store an overall light and welcoming feel - creating a thoroughly enjoyable shopping experience for both the customer and the sales team.

What makes a standout retail salesperson?

I believe that a great salesperson has the confidence and charisma to create an instant rapport with any customer that walks through the door. In doing this, the customer feels at ease and from there on will seek advice and utilise the salesperson's garment and fabric knowledge.

nails on richmond info@nailsonrichmond.co.nz | www.nailsonrichmond.co.nz

Tell us about a memorable sale you've made recently‌ The most memorable sale this year so far has to be one I made only a few days ago!

A lovely lady came into store seeking a dress for a wedding that was fast approaching.

She was extremely happy to listen to my styling advice and ended up leaving the store with multiple items. It all started with a smile and compliment - which just reflects how much those little things really mean.

If you could wave your wand and have anyone in the world walk into your store right now, who would it be?

Alexa Chung has always been such a style icon for me with her edgy yet sophisticated fashion sense. To have her walk through the door would be such an awesome experience!

If you could wave your wand and have anyone in greater Ponsonby walk into your store right now, who would it be?

Within Ponsonby I would love to have Patricia Lai walk thorugh the door - she played a significant part in the design of LOT 3 (where Storm resides) designed by Jasmax. As I am currently studying my Masters in Architecture, it would be extremely interesting to hear the design process of the building within which I spend a lot of my time.

Where do you enjoy shopping?

I enjoy shopping at Ruby across the road and The Bronze Snake Shop always has some great sale items!

Name a great greater Ponsonby store...

Workshop on Mackelvie Street has such an awesome group of girls working. They are always extremely helpful and have an extensive knowledge of the brands and garments instore. F PN STORM, Shop 6/130 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 6098, www.stormonline.com

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY

Lucy Vincent, creator of Sans [ceuticals] Businesswoman, creative and passionate mama, petite blonde powerhouse Lucy Vincent is one hell of a woman.

The range began with a single product: the now cult favourite known as Activator 7 Body Oil, a reparative oil that uses active vitamin A to stimulate cell repair, increase collagen production and boost skin thickness and elasticity. After two years of rigorous research and development, the end result really was something special. The effects of regular use of Activator 7 on some eczema sufferers has been better than that of the use of steroid-based creams. Further body and haircare formulations were to follow, each more amazing than the next.

Fast-forward to 2017 and talking to Lucy in the Grey Lynn space where she now works exclusively on Sans [ceuticals], it is clear she is still obsessed by her creation, which is about to enter a new space globally. The brand has been in the United States at a very low-key level for several years now, but that is all set to change with a new directto-consumer business approach and very clever digital strategy. There has also been a reformulation process rolling out across many of the products in the range to make them even more multifunctional (I love that, our bathroom cabinets are too cluttered as it is!), including the aforementioned Activator 7, which can now be used as everything from a face and hair oil to an eye makeup remover. A new styling line for the hair will also be unveiled later in the year.

A well-known face in the New Zealand fashion and hair industries for over 20 years, she is a long-time advocate for all-natural beauty and the planet, and is a source of endless, valuable information about both.

When I found out I was pregnant with my son Wolf, Lucy was one of the first to know, and soon presented me with a range of options for my haircare that would have zero effect on my system and my growing baby's. These included organic, chemical-free colour, new techniques with my old colour to minimise its effects on my system, an organic take -home hair care range and general, all round great advice. This was clearly a woman who knew her stuff.

Originally from the Lakes District in the United Kingdom, she moved to Australia when she was nine and then to New Zealand when she was 11. Leaving school at 15 to work as a hairdresser in Nelson, she moved to Auckland at age 23 and became the co-founder of the Ponsonby salon we now all know and love, Stephen Marr. Further Stephen Marr salons were to follow, along with beauty haven Lucy & The Powder Room, and Lucy was also a co-founder of the pioneering North Shore retail concept, The Department Store.

Key to the digital strategy is a fresh new website that is interactive and ready to deliver Sans lovers from all over the world a quick, effective e-commerce experience, as well as how-to videos to educate and beautiful recipes, inspiration and the like. It is capable of giving consumers highly detailed Sans [ceuticals] prescriptions for their skin, and the opportunity to experience luxury samples via the ‘Sans Dispensary’.

The brand is also collaborating with 30 key, high-profile and like-minded women on the global stage under the name the Coven Women, an initiative made possible by Lucy’s good friend Natalie Shukur, a freelance writer, editor, content strategist and creative consultant based in New York. The possibilities really are endless in the digital space, and these women will help take the Sans [ceuticals] message to the world.

“I am just so excited about this year,” Lucy tells me with the biggest smile on her face, “and having a platform to really tell the Sans [ceuticals] story from our own point of view PN to consumers is key. I’m happy!” (HELENE RAVLICH) F www.sansceuticals.com

Amazingly, while all of this growth was happening on a commercial level she also found the time to create Sans [ceuticals], a specialist collection of hair and body products that has slowly but surely been going on to conquer the world. Their formulations are pure and clean, with each ingredient highly considered. This means that as well as being simply gorgeous to use, they are as high performance as they get. The active ingredients in each offering are dialled up to really high levels to work on cellular health as well as skin and hair structure, and I for one can’t get enough.

“It used to be that everything that was natural was believed to be better for you,” she told me at the time of the product collection’s first release, “but now we're realising that some ingredients from nature can be just as irritating and toxic as those that are synthetic. My range is as pure as it can be as well as non-irritating or comedogenic, and all the ingredients I've used are sustainably harvested from communities that are fully supported.”

Pure, chemical-free and highly active, Sans [ceuticals] really is new generation beauty: a collection of products designed to renew the texture and appearance of your skin and hair that doesn’t harm the user or the environment. The collection contains no artificial chemicals - only sustainably harvested, natural ingredients and organic wherever possible - and in line with the name (sans is French for ‘without’), is pure, clean and without any unnecessary or harmful ingredients.

64 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING JAYNE COLLIER - 'HOW TO BECOME A TRAIL RUNNER IN 15 WEEKS' Year three of the Partners Life DUAL scholarship programme.

Jayne Collier is a self-proclaimed city girl and a Freemans Bay resident. She quite literally hates exercise and confesses to loathing the great outdoors. Her preferred environment, she says, is a local bar with a glass of pinot gris, or sitting on the couch in the comfort of her own home with a packet of chips.

to the Partners Life DUAL event which takes place on Rangitoto and Motutapu islands on 25 March 2017.

Which, as luck would have it, was where she was when she read the newsletter from her insurer Partners Life which featured a piece about the 2017 Partners Life DUAL scholarship programme.

“Even when I was at the gym, I never had anyone to be accountable to so being part of this group is going to keep me on track. My lame excuses won’t wash with a bunch of people I hardly know, so I’ll have to just get on with it.

“It’s like that tiny little article was written just for me,” she sighs. “I played sport at school and have joined the gym sporadically over the years, but frankly now it’s a grudge match with exercise. I even hate walking.

“As I age, I am conscious that the weight is harder to shift and I have new aches and pains I never had before. I am starting to feel the age my body is dictating, and that is not good!”

Jayne was selected as one of 15 participants on a $1500 scholarship programme designed to help her get fit for the Partners Life DUAL, which will take place next March.

“I never thought I’d be selected for the programme and now I am actually doing it, I’m pleased. Next year we are going on a family trip to North America and doing a roadie from Vancouver down the West Coast to San Francisco. This training will help me get fitter for that - there is going to be a lot of walking and I want to be able to take it all in my stride. Literally!” she says.

The Partners Life DUAL scholarship programme includes weekly boot camp, a personal trainer, nutrition advice, online support, exercise gear and the entry fee

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

“I am hoping that the physical and mental benefits of training for the Partners Life DUAL will outweigh how I feel about the actual doing of it. I hope to feel and look better: be healthier, fitter and more able,” says Jayne.

Director Aaron Carter from Total Sport says that the scholarship was designed to help people who really wanted make a total lifestyle change and get fit and healthy - both mentally and physically.

“Total Sport has a simple mission: to get more people outside and enjoying participating in more events and experiences in the wonderful locations New Zealand has to offer,” he says. “The Partners Life DUAL on Motutapu and Rangitoto truly epitomises this,” PN he says. F For more information, or to register for the event, go to www.thedual.co.nz

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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CLARE CALDWELL: THE ART OF LIVING “For the first time in our history, a small group of scientists stands on the threshold of communicating with a non-human intelligence.” (Captain Paul Watson, ‘The Cetacean Brain and Hominid Perceptions of Cetacean Intelligence’.)

As we continue to gaze upwards into the cosmos, hoping for evidence of extraterrestrial, intelligent, sentient beings, growing evidence now suggests there’s a profound intelligence that pre-dates our human evolution by millions of years dwelling quietly in our oceans. “It’s an intelligence that in terms of associative, linguistic and survival skills, may well turn out to be more advanced than our own.” (Watson) I’m referring of course to cetaceans - dolphins, whales and orcas.

A handful of dedicated researches have discovered a curious and wonderful anomaly while studying cetaceans - that not only do they lose their scientific objectivity, another whole existential process begins. “You see,” wrote Dr John Lily, “what I found after 12 years of studying dolphins is that the limits are not in them, the limits are in us. So I had to go away and find out, who am I? What’s this all about?” Psychologist Dr Paul Spong, after working with orcas, came to the realisation that at the same time he was studying and performing experiments on their behaviour, they were studying and performing experiments on his!

Both these men have now become fierce advocates of cetacean freedom in the wild.

Anthropocentric arrogance in the scientific community for the most part remains intransigent and continues to deny any other terrestrial species could surpass human intelligence. Swimming with wild dolphins I experienced what I can only describe as a quantum energy that’s impossible to quantify - a feeling of complete and utter unconditional love and of being scanned to my entirety. This is another type of intelligence - not mathematical or technological - and ventures into the realms of associative intelligence. They’re natural telepaths and communicate this energy of love non-vocally and effortlessly from their mind/body to ours.

We humans evolved as toolmakers, “obsessed with danger and group aggression.”

(Watson) Cetaceans were non-manipulative, tranquil and in harmony with a non -threatening environment. Thus the two intelligences developed very differently as different needs and focuses came into play.

These associative or connecting of ideas areas in mammalian supralimbic lobes are actually measurable. Rats have a ratio of 9/1 - only 10% devoted to associative thinking; humans have a ratio of 1/9; cetaceans have a ratio of 1/25 and even 40! So this all of course begs the question: what is intelligence and how do we measure their intelligence within our limited human rationales?

Einstein in a letter to his daughter to be opened after his death stated: “I ask you to guard this letter until society is advanced enough to accept what I will explain... There is an extremely powerful force that governs and includes all others... and is behind any phenomenon operating in the universe, and has not yet been identified by us. This universal force is love. When scientists look for a unified theory they forget the most powerful unseen force... that enlightens... that heals... that has no limits.”

Cetaceans seem to have aligned themselves within this force in a sustained reality of curiosity, intelligence and unconditional love. Imagine how much they could teach us if we could properly communicate with them. We too need to align with this energy. We need to advance as a species if we're to survive. As our human aggression spirals out of control globally, we must endeavour to learn from these infinitely gentle, evolutionarily advanced and wise creatures that co-inhabit this planet - after all, they have survived quietly and PN successfully for much longer than us. (CLARE CALDWELL) F Clare (Claudie) Caldwell is a creative arts therapist who runs a small, private practice from home. She now runs a voluntary art and art therapy programme at Auckland City Mission. She is also a freelance artist.

Enquiries: T: 09 836 3618; M: 021 293 3171; E: clare.e.caldwell@gmail.com

When we examine a cetacean brain alongside a human brain, we begin to see several major differences. The human brain along with all other mammals has three segments: rhinic, limbic and supralimbic with the neocortex covering the latter. With cetaceans we see a major evolutionary leap, with the inclusion of a fourth segment called the paralimbic. This is not found in any other species. It’s like a continuation and expansion of the sensory and motor areas found in humans (where they are usually differentiated and separate), but in cetaceans are a fully integrated system of sight, sound, touch that all activate simultaneously, giving “a richness of information unimaginable to us.” (Watson) This paralimbic lobe is also spread outside their supralimbic lobe, thus leaving infinitely more brain space for association (connecting of ideas) skills, and the supralimbic lobe in itself is much bigger than that of humans.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JOHN APPLETON: ON HEALTH

Sugar, it’s on everyone’s lips If there’s one New Year’s resolution we should all be embracing this year, it’s doing our utmost to remove as much sugar as possible from out diet.

For many years we have been led to believe that fat is the bad guy and this has been very convenient for the processed food industry, which has pumped vast amounts of sugar into thousands of products found on supermarket shelves.

It seems we have all become addicted to this deleterious substance and the food industry knows that if they want us coming back for more of their products, all they have to do pump in the sugar. I would go as far as saying that sugar is more addictive than tobacco or alcohol. The message has been very slow to get out because there is a lot of money behind convincing our health policy makers to turn a blind eye to what is really going on.

When it comes to diabetes, heart disease, obesity, Alzheimer’s, ageing and cancer (to name a few of the health issues filling our hospitals), we need to be proactive and do our own research. Removing the cause is by far the easiest way to resolve any problem.

The average New Zealander would need to cut their daily sugar intake to a sixth of what it is now to meet new World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. For an adult, this equals about 6 teaspoons, approx 25g of sugar per day. We are currently consuming about 54kg of sugar per year. That is equivalent to 37 teaspoons of sugar per person, per day.

Years ago diabetes was known as ‘sugar diabetes’ because at that time it was directly linked to the consumption of sugar. In 2015, 260,000 New Zealanders were recorded as having diabetes. This is a massive problem and there are many thousands in line to become diabetic.

When it comes to heart disease, American cardiologist Stephen Sinatra says that sugar is the number one dietary contributor. Whenever we consume sugar, insulin is required to get the sugar safely out of our bloodstream into the cells. Insulin however, is a double - edged sword and can negatively impact on us in several ways. Insulin can compromise the delicate lining of our arteries known as the endothelium.

In the early 60s a well-reported study showed how dripping insulin into the femoral artery of dogs resulted in occluded arteries. Insulin also triggers the production of cholesterol, which is more directly related to consumption of sugar than it is with consumption of fats. We have been misled for a long time.

Insulin is also known to cause cellular proliferation. What could this mean for cancer?

I have read a number of studies that show one of the strongest correlations to breast cancer and colon cancers are levels of insulin. In addition, Guy Perkins of the University of California at San Diego reminds us that “most cancer cells rely almost exclusively on glucose to fuel their growth.”

It doesn’t stop there, Alzheimer’s disease is now being referred to as ‘diabetes 3’.

The brain also uses glucose as its fuel and research is showing that Alzheimer’s is a metabolic disease: insulin resistance in the brain limits the brain’s ability to use glucose and produce energy.

Sugar also suppresses the immune system, reducing our resistance to infections by up to 75% for five hours after ingestion.

Anyone who takes the time to look closely at why chronic illnesses are an everincreasing burden for our health system would find a lot of bells ringing if they properly Fortunately when it comes to obesity even entrenched supporters of the processed food industry are reluctantly accepting the role of sugar/refined carbohydrates in the investigated the role of sugar in the process. (JOHN APPLETON) F PN obesity epidemic. Exercise is great but removing sugar in all its forms from the diet is, in my humble opinion, the most important consideration.

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

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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DEIRDRE THURSTON: ON MY MIND

Broken bits Everybody has broken bits. Broken relationships, broken promises, broken vases in drawers, broken everythings.

At the moment I have a broken dishwasher and a broken foot. I thank goodness I kept up my surgical care insurance payments (read: broken financially). Though, I figured out that if I had banked the monthly premiums over the years, I would possibly be able to rescue every small country’s economy single handed. However, I have no doubt I would have ‘borrowed’ those savings at some stage for a holiday or some other necessary frivolity, so I’m grateful I do not have to fork out thousands of dollars to my surgeon, anaesthetist and what seems like a cast of hundreds for their parts in my operation so soon after the Christmas and New Year abuse of my credit card.

And what a delightful cast it was. Friendly, efficient, smiling nurses asking loads of questions again and again to ensure the correct foot was operated on. Thank goodness for marker pens. (We have all heard stories.) I’m sure they never believe anyone’s answer around weekly alcohol consumption. But there was not a flicker of judgement to be seen at my almost honest answer.

On entering the small hospital, I had expected the usual hospital odours of disinfectant and overdone cabbage. Not a whiff. Instead the air hummed like a summer’s day - which it was. My room’s vista was one of mature, green, leafy trees, white hydrangea bushes and purple jacaranda blossom carpeting the driveway. Gowned - a decent length and bottom covered completely - and ready, I was rolled away to theatre where a handsome man with a magnificent red and green tattoo snaking up one arm slipped something divine into my veins. I think I love him. Waking up, I heard myself gently snoring, I couldn’t believe it was over and done with. And, in fact, I was alive.

Wheeled back into my room, green tea and a club sandwich on its way, I lay waiting with a semi-woozy head, and mused on the sandwich. Probably be slightly dry, white loaf with mashed egg gone all pale and tasteless with the addition of too much milk and mild dry mustard, a piece of tinned beetroot bleeding over the middle slice and a strip of iceberg lettuce. Like funeral fare at the RSA. Nothing wrong with it. I’m partial to an asparagus roll and a potato topped savoury while commiserating with loved ones. How wrong I can be. Note to self: do not assume where private hospitals and club sammies are

concerned. Fresh, soft beige (if not quite brown) bread laden with real ham, cucumber, crunchy carrot slices and tomato. Proper tomato. Not flaccid slices in their death throes.

Happy patient. Until the pain kicked in but by that time I was home.

Painkillers and I don’t enjoy a close friendship. I detest them. They have their place, I guess, but I’m always amazed at how many people take them willy-nilly. Some doctors appear to be overly eager to dispense them. Have you read about the side effects?

Nausea, vomiting, constipation... Stoically, I refused the strong ones my first night home hoping the paracetamol and something else pink and unpronounceable would do the trick. At 3.39am I wished for some kind soul to hit me over the head with a mallet. I was wired and in pain. How could this be after broken bits mended under anaesthesia, pain drugs, superb club sandwich? Finally, I drifted off at 5am - for 36 minutes. New plan: listen to all the drug pushers/users and swallow those strong pills, and sleep. Hopefully for longer than 36 minutes.

I’ve realised, over the repair of my broken bits, how stubborn I can be. Leaves me wondering if I see it as a sign of weakness taking drugs after an operation. Should I not be able to soldier on with a bit of Rescue Remedy and some zinc for healing? Is it a female thing? Is it okay to have help? Will taking the strong stuff for a few days lead me down a path of neediness and life under a bridge?

I have concluded that I am over-thinking the situation. All our broken bits - emotional, physical, spiritual - need a leg up from time to time. Accepting help is where strength lies, not weakness. Second night home from hospital, I listened to the advice of friends, a doctor among them, and took the strong painkiller. Epiphany! No pain, no thoughts of sleeping under bridges, and I actually slept all night long. My life has changed for the better. Notoriously, my sleep is always broken. At last, a full seven hours kip - bandaged foot and all. Did I mention no pain? This must be how people feel every day; awake! As my doctor friend said when I told him of my new-found relationship with painkillers - only when necessary, of course: “And that’s why God made pharmacists.” Amen to that.

PN (DEIRDRE THURSTON) F

Clothing Alterations

Alter Ego Roong T: 09 376 8689

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

68 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

CARING PROFESSIONAL Julia Cameron - celebrant Julia Cameron tells Ponsonby News she is "a proud and loyal JAFA": she has lived in the Ponsonby/Herne Bay area for more than 30 years.

“My husband and I married 12 years ago after being together for 12 years prior,” she says. “Together we share three daughters and six grandchildren.”

How did you come to be a celebrant?

I was working at TV3 when a friend living in the United States came in to see me. She had come home for a wedding at which she was the celebrant. I had an immediate epiphany: that was what I should be doing. It was 2000 and I did the AUT celebrant’s course. Whilst doing the course, one of my dearest friends contracted cancer and asked me to ‘do’ her funeral. This was her last gift to me, (putting me in front of a funeral director), which gave me the opportunity to pursue this career. Six years later I became a full-time celebrant.

What do you love about your job?

I have never stopped loving being a celebrant. Every ceremony is different, stimulating and challenging. There is a wonderful sense of worth and achievement having conducted a funeral (or wedding) and believing I have made the event special to all parties.

With funerals: to know you have helped those grieving to accept and move on with their lives appreciating and acknowledging the importance of the person they have lost.

With weddings: I ask the couple, if they wish, to provide me with their stories. It is so much fun getting this information and then writing it for inclusion within the ceremony.

Over the years I have conducted weddings and funerals for many so-called famous people. From weddings for sportspeople like Martin Crowe and Daniel Vettori, to funerals for politicians such as Bob Tizard and Phil Amos. However, my favourite ‘famous’ funeral

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

was Sir Fred Allen’s at Eden Park. There were seven knights present (including Sir Fred), but my highlight was seeing the stunned look on the faces of the men present (of which there was a vast majority), when a woman walked in to lead the service... and also nearly losing all feeling in my hand when Waka Nathan shook it in his huge paw!

What do you find challenging?

With funerals, being 100% sure that I have the details correct and then expressing them in a way which is right for that family. Every ceremony must be unique.

I have the ability to hear a ‘throwaway’ line, which can be of profound importance. I am careful to ask the right questions and, more importantly, to hear the answers. The most challenging of all are funerals for children. Being a mother I can get partway to the parents’ incredible grief and terrible loss, while understanding that unless one has actually suffered this type of despair, one will never fully comprehend it.

I can, however, understand the hopelessness and anguish families feel with suicide, as my own brother chose that path.

How do you differ from other celebrants?

Celebrancy is totally people-centric. To be a good celebrant you must like people. You have to be able to put those with whom you are dealing at ease, so they are comfortable telling you things that are private and special to them. To empathise and let them know that this service will be exactly as they want it to be.

Can you share an anecdote about your work?

I did a wedding a few years ago where an identical twin married an identical twin. The groom’s brother had a fabulous time being kissed by everyone - especially the young women - who all thought they were greeting the groom.

What do you do to care for yourself?

I have an innate ability not to carry ‘baggage’. I put 100% into every ceremony, preparing, delivering and critiquing to the best of my ability, understanding that when it’s over, it’s over... and I can come home and have a glass of wine!

What's your advice to people seeking to become a celebrant?

Take the course offered by the Celebrant School. It is invaluable. Be absolutely sure that this is truly your calling. You have people’s lives and hearts at stake, so what you do is profoundly important and cannot be treated lightly. Show respect, do your homework and remember that humour can sometimes be the right thing.

JULIA CAMERON CELEBRANT, T: 09 376 2755, www. juliacameroncelebrant.co.nz

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING MAINTAINING GOOD DIGESTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH Happy New Year. We are celebrating 2017 with the launch of our new website www.arohalove.co.nz, check it out!

Arvigo techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapies® If you are looking for a natural and results-driven therapy to assist with abdominal and reproductive health then you may have found it in the Arvigo techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy® available at Aroha, located in Maidstone Street on the Grey Lynn -Ponsonby border.

You may be experiencing fertility challenges, have a condition relating to reproductive organs, menstrual cycles, digestive system, or you may suffer from mild to severe anxiety.

This is the massage therapy to assist circulation of blood, lymph, nerves and energy.

The best part of this incredible treatment is that Aroha’s principle therapist, Rosanna Marks, will teach you the belly massage, so you get a ‘going home’ present on your first treatment and it may just be the best gift you ever receive!

Arvigo Therapy is founded on an ancient Mayan technique of a non-invasive, external abdominal massage. Arvigo Therapy stimulates circulation and blood-flow within the abdominal area, supporting the body for optimal function of digestive and fertile health and wellness. It is a therapy that can be applied throughout every stage of a woman, man or child’s life.

Arvigo Therapy incorporates a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. Only by treating the whole person on a physical, emotional and energetic level can true healing take place.

Rosanna has had some incredible results with this ancient treatment and will be advancing her knowledge this month when she travels to Belize to learn all about Maya spiritual healing to support all therapies at Aroha.

You can follow her mid-February adventure on the Aroha Facebook page or ArohaLove Instagram page. To read more about Arvigo therapy, please go to the Aroha Love website or email Rosanna directly. (ROSANNA MARKS) F PN www.arohalove.co.nz E: info@arohalove.co.nz M: 0273 866 587 or T: 0800mindbody

RESOLVE TO GET IN THE SADDLE WITH THE AOTEAROA BIKE CHALLENGE If feeling fitter, healthier or happier is one of your New Year’s resolutions, just 10 minutes of cycling can get you on the right track and win you great prizes too.

The NZ Transport Agency has brought the global Love to Ride programme to New Zealand this February as the Aotearoa Bike Challenge.

The aim of the month-long workplace challenge, which begins 1 February, is for Kiwis to give cycling a go. Entering is as simple as a 10-minute trip on your bike.

The Aotearoa Bike Challenge is a great way to kick-start a New Year exercise programme, says Makea Pokere, Personal Training Manager at Les Mills Living, Thinking.

“What’s great about ABC is that there’s heaps of support both in communities and online. Anyone wanting to get started can find tips and tricks to make it more achievable, and find others locally who are giving it a go. It’s also great for workplaces entering as teams to enjoy a bit of friendly competition.

“Also as an employer, we know that for our team, when they are active this has widespread benefits for the workplace in terms of productivity and motivation. It creates a better, more positive atmosphere - it’s a real win-win!”

Makea says an event like ABC is a great way to start building healthy new habits.

“While many people start the year with great intentions, it is sometimes hard to build new habits. We find that giving things a go - in this case just 10 minutes cycling, which

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you can fit in anytime, anywhere, and achieving that - can be a real motivator. Then it’s just a case of building on that and finding a 10-minute trip by bike turns into a habit.

Before you know it, you will have built your confidence and your fitness and will be feeling much better.”

The Challenge gives Kiwis a great opportunity to try cycling, says NZ Transport Agency National Cycling Manager Dougal List.

“The challenge gives riders who may be less confident the extra motivation and support of knowing that thousands of New Zealanders will be doing it with them.”

For a bit of extra incentive to keep your resolutions, there is a brand new eBike, a Panasonic Smart TV, cycling gear, movie vouchers and many more prizes to be won.

The Aotearoa Bike Challenge is not about who can ride the most kilometres, but about encouraging people to give cycling a go. Workplaces are being encouraged to participate, and the distance ridden by every business team contributes towards the efforts of the organisation as a whole. This means the more people you get involved, the PN more chance you have of winning great prizes. F To find out more, visit www.lovetoride.net/nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ecostore February Sale

20% off everything

The ecostore sale you’ve been waiting for has arrived!

Treat yourself, your home and your family this summer – all our products are 20% off for the month of February, including refills, bulk sizes, personal care, gift sets and more.

Come in store at 1 Scotland St, Freemans Bay, opposite New World Victoria Park.

Shop trading hours Monday to Friday 10 -6pm Saturday to Sunday 10-5pm

LIVING, THINKING + BEING THE KATHLEEN GRATTAN PRIZE FOR A SEQUENCE OF POEMS 2016 The winner of the 2016 Kathleen Grattan Prize for a Sequence of Poems, run by International Writers’ Workshop NZ Inc (IWW), has been announced, with the $1000 prize awarded to Michael Giacon of Auckland for his sequence, 'Argento in no man land'.

Giacon was born and raised in Ponsonby. He is from a large Pakeha-Italian-Samoan family, and has worked at tertiary level in English language teaching. In 2016, he graduated with an AUT Masters in Creative Writing, producing a volume of poetry, Beyond Retrieve, which was all about a life of writing. 'Argento in no man land' began as part of his Masters. A series of IWW poetry workshops helped him select and shape his winning sequence of 13 poems telling of spring-to-spring romance, love, lust, break-up, some sadness, hope, for Argento Q in the gay milieu.

This year’s judge, Gus Simonovic, said of the winning sequence: “This seduces on the first read with its feel of ‘ease’. You know when you read one of those poems that have just ‘landed’ as they are; the ones that look and sound as if they come directly from that eternal creative source; and where the poet is just the medium between the source and the reader. The structure of the poem is ‘predictable’, but the content itself is everything but. Its natural flow and the richness of the emotional landscape makes it readable and re-readable with endless incarnations of poetic surprise(s).”

The Emerging Poet Award, presented to an IWW member of at least three years standing who has not had poetry published previously, is Caroline Carlyle for her sequence, 'The Chongololo Therapy Sessions'. A chongololo is a giant African millipede and the seven poem sequence relates to her childhood growing up in Zimbabwe.

About the prize The Kathleen Grattan Prize for a Sequence of Poems has been made possible by a bequest from the Jocelyn Grattan Charitable Trust. It was a specific request of the late Jocelyn Grattan that her mother be recognised through an annual competition in recognition of her love for poetry and that the competition be for a sequence or cycle of poems with no limit on the length of the poems. It is one of two poetry competitions funded by the trust, the other being the prestigious Kathleen Grattan Award run by the publishers of Landfall magazine.

Michael Giacon, Gus Simonovic and Caroline Carlyle About IWW International Writers' Workshop NZ Inc was founded in 1976 by poet Barbara B. Whyte and meets twice a month from February to November at the Northcote Point Senior Citizens Villa in Northcote. IWW's main aim is to inspire writers by means of workshops and competitions across fiction, non fiction and poetry.

This is the 8th year the prize has been contested. Previous winners are: 2009: Alice Hooton for America.

2010: Janet Charman for Mother won't come to us, and Rosetta Allan for Capricious Memory.

2011: Jillian Sullivan for how to live it.

2012: James Norcliffe for What do you call your male parent?

2013: Belinda Diepenheim for Bittercress and Flax.

2014: Julie Ryan for On Visiting Old Ladies.

2015: Maris O’Rourke for Motherings.

DON’T MISS THE MARCH PONSONBY NEWS+ DEADLINE

2016 is IWW’s 40th anniversary year and has culminated with the launch of Those be Rubies, a comprehensive and meticulously researched history from the workshop’s conception to the end of 2016 including these results of The Kathleen Grattan Prize for a Sequence of Poems.

More about the book at iww.co.nz/book.htm

MARCH SPECIAL FEATURES + VIVA ITALIA + FASHION / SHOES + CAREERS & EMPLOYMENT

COPY DEADLINE: Monday 20 February PUBLISHED: Friday 3 March

PREMIUM POSITIONS AVAILABLE

TO BOOK ADVERTISING: Call Jo Barrett on 021 324 510 or on Melissa 027 938 4111 t: 09 361 3356 or 09 378 8553 e: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz e: melissa@ponsonbynews.co.nz w: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SARAH-JANE ATTIAS: HEALTHY LIVING Happy New Year! I would like to ring in the year with best wishes for your good health and in particular for the little ‘pocket rockets’ in our lives.

On holiday, perched under a magnificent pohutukawa tree, I enjoyed time and space to relax and recharge. I found myself reflecting upon all the children we treat at Living Osteopathy Clinic, wondering how they all are and knowing how they will be lovin' their holidays.

What should I look for in my child?

A child who is physically uncomfortable may not complain of aches and pains, but they may display some of the following characteristics:

This month I ask our Senior Osteopath James Hutchinson; MOst, MPhil, BAppSc (Human Bio) MONZ., a few specific questions about children: how to optimise their vitality, growth and overall health. James is a dad to three lively kids, which in my eyes, makes him a humble ‘expert’.

• Behaviour - they may seem volatile, over-reacting emotionally.

• Illnesses - your child may have a depleted immune system and easily succumb to many infections. Learning can be detrimentally affected by both a child feeling unwell and increased time lost from school. Do they seem to fatigue easily?

• Physical signs - your child may be 'bent out of shape', holding their head to one side, one shoulder being higher than the other, easier to turn to one side than the other.

• Physical discomforts - your child may complain of headaches, growing pains, stomach aches or other physical aches and pains.

• Clumsiness - your child may fall a lot, often seeming to bump the same part of their body. Their handwriting may seem laborious and often untidy.

How does osteopathy work for children?

Your child’s body is a wonderful thing. However, sometimes everything does not grow at the same rate, for instance bones grow faster than muscles. So there maybe torsions, twists and strains. Specifically during rapid growth spurts and total body development, regular osteopathic checks and treatment, where necessary, are vital.

Gentle, hands-on osteopathic treatment works to rebalance and release tightened muscles and tissues, allowing space within the joint, gaining more movement and healthy growth. Children are very receptive to treatment. They usually find it relaxing, rewarding and relieving. Remember it’s best to resolve issues promptly as they arise. Prevention is the key.

What are the subtle signs that your child may need treatment?

• Some school-age kids may have difficulty concentrating, coping with learning and writing, or with acquiring and mastering motor skills; like hand-eye co-ordination.

• Do you feel that your child is growing 'bent out of shape'?

• Seem to take longer to recover or do they catch new infections easily?

• Does your child get headaches, growing pains, sore muscles throughout the day?

Osteopathy is a medical science that looks at the structure of the body and its movement.

If a child’s body mechanics are not balanced, this can have an overriding effect on the functioning of all of their body systems, such as hormones, digestion and so on.

Osteopathy is about health and wellbeing, and can help to optimise the body’s natural resources, defences and improve general health in children affected by a vast array of illnesses.

A few extra tips from Sarah-Jane about osteopathy and your child.

• The osteopathic room can be a good ‘neutral’ space to discuss matters between child, guardian and your osteopath.

• Age of consent - 16.

• Approximately 30% of our clients are children.

• A reminder that children are covered by ACC. Treatment offers pain relief, recovering increased mobility and an accelerated healing, increasing blood flow to repair bruised or torn tissue, bones and ligaments.

• We have a strong referral network with pediatric specialists.

• Treatment can be very effective around exam ‘cramming’ time, offering relief for tense shoulders, neck or stress headaches.

• It’s wise to choose an osteopath who has special interest and training in pediatrics all our Living Osteopaths do.

• We have many family groups that attend clinic over the decades, there is something very special about having grandparent, mother, young ones and the newborn all in the room. It is a very caring, sharing and enlightening time for families.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only. If you have a specific health problem you should seek advice from an appropriate registered health care provider. Living Osteopathy is a Primary Health Care Provider registered with ACC and the OCNZ. Living Osteopathy does not accept any liability other than to its clients.

(SARAH-JANE ATTIAS) F PN

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

AUCKLAND’S FAVOURITE MERMAIDS CRUSADE FOR JOY Trilogy present the Wet Hot Beauties in Sea Change - a splash-tacular water ballet championing girl power!

A metamorphosis of mermaids. A war cry of water ballerinas. A flotilla of femininity!

This month, as part of the Auckland Fringe and Pride Festivals, the award-winning Wet Hot Beauties make a spectacular splash at the Parnell Baths in their latest professionally choreographed water ballet offering, Sea Change.

"Sea Change is a perfect fit for Auckland’s Fringe and Pride festivals, celebrating diversity and empowerment in a girl-powered show,” says Judy Dale, co producer/co creator.

More than 80 water ballerinas create a dazzling aquatic kaleidoscope, built on an emotional narrative based on profound transformation. Drawing from deeply personal experiences, Sea Change explores through dance the roles women play in today’s society. The work challenges the demands and expectations placed on modern women, as well as celebrates their resilience, courage and power. Set to a pumping sound track of legendary divas, Sea Change aims to entertain, inspire and uplift, and illustrates how community and belonging can set us all free.

"It's about transformation - a community group becoming fabulous Water Ballerinas - turning the physical space of a learners pool into something deeply magical and the personal revolution to radical self acceptance,” says Lara Liew, choreographer/ co creator.

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But Sea Change is more than a show - it's a movement. A siren's call to shine bright like a diamond. A powerful war cry to join the Wet Hot Beauties on the crusade to create joy one dive bomb at a time.

“With so much fear and uncertainty going on in the world today, it’s more important than ever to create art that is positive and uplifting. We take our joy activism very seriously.”

Pip Hall, co producer/co creator.

Wet Hot Beauties is an all inclusive, body positive water ballet company with a tradition of producing community-focused, feel-good water ballets both in the pool and at the beach.

Wet Hot Beauties have produced two previous Fringe shows, Sirens and Swan Song, both of which were sold out, critically acclaimed, crowd favourites.

Sea Change is coming - Viva La Revolution!

Time & Date: Venue: Tickets: Supported by: Contact:

9pm, 21 February - 26 February 2017 Parnell Baths, Judges Bay Road, Parnell iTicket - $40/$30 Parnell Baths, Creative Communities Scheme. WHBs dressed by: Moontide wethotbeauties@gmail.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

JOANNA MASON and KAY ANDERSON mother and daughter duo share a passion for plants and produce.

HEROIC GARDEN FESTIVAL 2017

We welcome you to the 2017 Heroic Garden Festival, a must-see event on many gardeners and nature lovers’ calendars.

This festival gives attendees exclusive access to 22 of Auckland’s most prestigious private gardens.

Now in its 21st year, proceeds from every ticket sold will support Mercy Hospice Auckland’s on-going work providing essential services free-of-charge to patients

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

facing life-limiting illness as well as their loved ones.

Held between 18-19 February 2017, from 10am-5pm.

For entry to all 22 gardens, the cost is $50 or for individual garden entry, adult: $10 and children: $5 (children under 12, where permitted).

Come and explore the wonders of Auckland’s most interesting gardens filled with creative features and treasures you will love.

Visit www.heroicgardens.org.nz for tickets and more information. F PN

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SPORTS ON THE SIDELINE HERNE BAY PETANQUE CLUB IS LOOKING FOR NEW MEMBERS The Herne Bay Petanque Club was one of New Zealand’s very first.

Established in 1995, the club boasts a world class, well-engineered terrain that offers an excellent surface to lean, grow and will always be Petanque challenged. Over the past 20 years, the club has grown to now have the largest membership of any petanque club in Auckland.

The club will host the Petanque New Zealand Open Tournament over the Saturday and Sunday of Waitangi weekend. Entrants will be coming from Tahiti, New Caledonia, Australia and from all over New Zealand to compete for the $8000 grand prize. It is a key date in the Oceania diary, and the public are invited to come and watch some of the world’s top players compete.

Members of the club have won a number of regional and national competitions, and have also represented New Zealand internationally. Such winners include the 2016 National Triple Champions, the National Senior Doubles, National Woman’s Shooting champion and several current Boule Blacks (national petanque players).

Petanque is a form of boules that originated in France early last century. The aim of the game is to toss or roll steel balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball (called a cochonnet) while standing in a circle with both feet on the ground. Unlike many sports, petanque can be played men against women. The game is usually played on hard dirt or gravel.

Located next to the Salisbury Reserve in Herne Bay, the club always welcomes new members and has a reasonably priced annual membership fee of just $55 or $100 for a couple. Under 18s and over 85s are free. Juniors, open and seniors combine to make for a healthy, active, engaged community in the Ponsonby area for both social and competitive platers.

Club days are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am - 12 noon, and Fridays from 4pm till late. Free coaching is also available for members on Tuesdays from 4pm.

(GEORGE SHIERS) F PN HERNE BAY PETANQUE CLUB, 19 Salisbury Street, M: 027 787 8175, www.petanquenz.com/clubs/read/Auckland/herne-bay-club

ALTITUDE TRAINING: QUICK - EFFECTIVE - EFFICIENT For years, elite athletes have known about the benefits of altitude training. Now you too can benefit from altitude training at Auckland’s first commercial altitude room, right here in Grey Lynn.

Forget what you’ve heard, there are no masks or claustrophobic machines to be hooked up to, just a comfortable room fully equipped with the latest state-of-the-art equipment.

performance, beauty, recovery, stress management, anxiety, diabetes, obesity, strength, conditioning and much more...

Training in a simulated altitude environment will dramatically increase the body’s metabolism, allowing our bodies to become more efficient at using oxygen and slow the aging process.

Beauty: With greater skin micro-circulation and increased collagen production, altitude training is like your body's natural Botox response. Reducing wrinkles as your skin's elasticity, tone and appearance all improve.

Unlike many fitness trends, altitude training is not about smashing yourself. Altitude training allows you to workout with much less overall stress on the body, while at the same time enhancing the effectiveness of the workout, this triggers a wide variety of physiological responses, adaptation and changes within the body.

Performance: Improvements in VO2 Max enhance the body’s ability to extract and deliver oxygen to working muscles, ultimately resulting in improved aerobic capacity.

Altitude training is quick, effective and efficient, no matter what your fitness level, goal or condition. Altitude training helps with acclimatisation, weight management, sports

Weight management: Altitude training can burn up to three times as many calories when compared to a normoxic workout. Reduced oxygen saturation levels increase mitochondria, increasing fat metabolism and energy production supporting weight loss.

ENERGY N MOTION, 5/318 Richmond Road, T: 0800 968 763, info@energynmotion.nz, www.ENERGYnMOTION.nz

76 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SPORTS ON THE SIDELINE WITHER HILLS WEST END CUP Australian professional tennis player, John-Patrick Smith won the Men’s Final Trophy at the Wither Hills West End Cup last month.

Watched by a large crowd, the 24-year-old ranked 231 in the world, beat fellow Australian 24-year-old Matt Barton 6-4, 6-4 after fierce competition in earlier rounds.

New Zealand top seed, and Wither Hills West End Cup Ambassador Finn Tearney bowed out in the semis, after getting beaten by Matt Barton 6-0, 6-4 in the sunshine.

In the Women’s Singles, Israeli professional player Julia Glushko, ranked 186 in the world, circuit took the Women’s title over 22-year-old Australian Masa Jovanovic in a tough matche 6-2,6-1. Glushko commented that the Wither Hills West End Cup is one of the best club tournaments she has played in.

The West End Lawn Tennis Club turned on their largest-ever West End Cup Tournament with the help from main sponsors Wither Hills, Waitemata Local Board, Ray White Damerell Group, Auckland City BMW and SMP Solutions. Players vie for a prize pool of aproximately $15,000. This is the first year the event has been televised live on Sky Sport for national viewers to enjoy the finals of the tournament. The tournament itself promises to be even bigger with the exposure from Sky Sport and a growing tennis audience.

Large crowds from the local community enjoyed three days of tennis, either in corporate hospitality at catered courtside tables on finals day, or siting on the grassy bank and grandstand. The event is always free to view for the public and has a family friendly feel with the Under 16 Boys and Girls tournaments and a Kids Zone for the younger children.

The Wither Hills West End Cup is aligned with Tennis Auckland and is described as the 'Queens Club Championships' to the ASB Classic, as a build up to the January tournament.

Tennis Auckland CEO Karl Budge said, “We were really impressed with the standard of the event and we are pleased to have it under the Tennis Auckland umbrella.”

Founded in 1928, West End Lawn Tennis Club is club one of the largest tennis clubs in Auckland, with over 450 members ranging from children to senior citizens. The club house has just gone through major renovations in 2016 and now has a slightly larger, modern facility overlooking six astro-turf courts. The clubhouse is often hired out for functions and community groups.

Event organiser and coaching company head World Tennis Justin Mackenzie said it’s encouraging to see top players coming back to play. They seem to enjoy the laid-back hospitality and warmth of the local Auckland crowds. John-Patrick Smith commented that the Wither Hills West End Cup is a good tournament to play in as a build-up to Australian Open. F PN www.westendtennisclub.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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BILLY HARRIS: KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY

Ponsonby duo recieve rewards from duathlon The 2004 Athens Olympic Games. Men’s Triathlon. New Zealanders Hamish Carter and Brendan Docherty are in the leading group of six in the bike leg.

Soon after the athletes transition into the third and final phase, the 10km run, the group is reduced to three - the Kiwis and the Swiss Sven Riederer. The pace heats ups and Riederer drops away. It’s down to our two boys, battling it out, side by side, first and second, going for gold.

Charlotte: I knew that I had to make the most of my biking and try to get as far in front of my friend Evie on the bike leg as I could because she is an awesome runner.

Evie: I came off the bike in 5th position. Charlotte’s a great cyclist and was in the lead, about 200m ahead. I knew I’m a fairly strong runner so I thought maybe I had a chance.

Has there ever been a more thrilling sight in New Zealand sport? As it turns out, there has.

Early last November, the Inner City Schools Triathlon, organised by Sport Auckland, Triathlon NZ, and Black Sands Tri Club, was held at Cox’s Bay. Competing were year 5 and 6 athletes from Ponsonby, Pt Chevalier, Freemans Bay, Bayfield, Richmond Road, Marist and Grey Lynn. Due to an uncooperative tide, the event was changed to a duathlon - a 200m sprint, a 1350m ride and a 650m run - but the reduction of the race from three disciplines to two did nothing to reduce the drama.

Among the favourites for the girls’ event were two from Ponsonby Primary, Charlotte Squire, who is better on the bike than she is on foot, and Evie Vuletich, who runs faster than she cycles.

The race started in a frenzy, as the athletes fought to get clear of the rush, but Charlotte soon worked her way to the front on the bike leg, and as expected, led her friend Evie into the second transition. As Evie disembarked after the 1350m ride and headed out on the 650m run around Cox’s Bay, observers estimate she trailed Charlotte by a whopping 200m, a distance everyone thought was too great to bridge.

Everyone except two people.

Charlotte: I was turning around to look back every minute, and Evie was getting closer and closer and closer.

Evie: I challenged myself to sprint the 600m to the finish and see what happens.

Charlotte: She was still catching up and when we got to the home straight she was just three metres behind me.

Evie: I dug deep and went for it.

What was unfolding was a sporting drama like no other. No television cameras recording the action, no Olympic medals at stake. Just two highly motivated 11-year-olds putting it all on the line in pursuit of victory. Physiologically the girls were in deep distress. Way over their anaerobic thresholds. Pulse rates and lactic acid through the roof.

As the two athletes crossed the finish line, Charlotte had just held her friend and rival Evie at bay to win by the narrowest of margins. Charlotte collapsed to the ground and felt like she was going to pass out. Evie felt like her legs had been turned to jelly by the effort of her valiant run.

PN Both felt the deep glow of satisfaction that comes with giving your all. (BILLY HARRIS) F

Evie Vuletich, Charlotte Squire and Sarah Ahmed show off the hard-earned certificates

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION THE SMILES BACKSTAGE SAID IT ALL! What an awesome year the dancers at Ponsonby School of Dance had in 2016!

It all started with 31 dancers performing at Disneyland, Universal Studios, Hollywood Boulevard and dancing in the Disney Parade down Main Street!

The girls say they will never forget the excitement and camaraderie from that amazing trip.

The Mad Hatter and her crew in Lost in Wonderland

Pre schoolers as butterflies in Lost in Wonderland

Once again their exam results were outstanding. Five of the jazz dancers achieved the highest marks in Australasia for their level. They were Sophia Robinson, Sophie van der Meijden, Ines Maxwell-Stewart, Georgie Brokenshire and Lauren Lamb.

Congratulations girls!

The senior jazz troupe was nominated to compete in the Troupe Nationals held at the Regent Theatre in Palmerston North. The girls were amazing and did PSOD proud. They made it to the top 12 in the country.

Their end-of-year production of Lost in Wonderland was a huge success! Every child performed with such enthusiasm and seemed to be revelling in the opportunity to perform in front of a large audience.

The Ponsonby School of Dance offers classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop and contemporary.

Their classes encourage and extend all students in a fun and friendly atmosphere. They pride themselves in offering qualified and experienced teachers who are passionate about providing the best dance class experience for your child. F PN

Flamingoes in Lost in Wonderland

Check out their timetable for 2017 at www.ponsonbyschoolofdance.co.nz or email Tracey at tracey@ponsonbyschoolofdance.co.nz

Under the Sea in Lost in Wonderland

Alice and the Knave with the Diamonds in Lost in Wonderland The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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FUTURE GENERATION LUCA’S LOWDOWN ON THE NEIGHBOURHOOD Six and ¾ year-old local, Luca, gave us the inside running on what’s fun and yummy around Ponsonby. And did anyone mention football...?

Who lives at your house?

Mummy, Daddy, and my cat Laszlo.

Are your neighbours cool?

Yes, Piper - she’s nextdoor and she’s my babysitter when Mummy and Daddy go out.

If you had to hide treasure at your place where would it be?

I'm not telling you! [Well played - Ed] What do you like to help your mum with?

Jobs around the house - mopping the floor, tidying my room.

Would mum say you do those things?

[A lengthy pause ensued - Ed] What do you like to help your dad with?

Nothing. Playing football!

Where do you go to school?

Ponsonby Primary.

Do you like it?

Yes, of course!

What's your favourite sport?

Football.

What is your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?

Go down to the field and play a bit of football with my dad.

Who else do you play football with?

At Western Springs Club and I like to play football at school with my friends too.

[Sensing a theme - Ed] Is there any time you don't like to play football?

No!

What's your favourite restaurant?

Burger Burger.

What's your favourite team?

I’ve got three: Barcelona, Tottenham and Saints (Southampton).

Do you go anywhere flash?

That place that does the really awesome pizzas and olives [Ponsonby Road Bistro] - only on my birthday.

Favourite player?

Kane, Boufal and Messi.

Where’s your favourite park?

Kakariki playground at Ponsonby Primary - it's huge and has got great stuff. Also the really cool one with the wooden fort in Ponsonby [Costley Reserve], it's really cool to play in - you can chase around on it and play funny games.

What do you like to play?

Chasing games! And football.

If you could put anything into the park that you wanted, what would it be?

Water slide!

Do you have wheels?

Yes, a bike.

Where would we see you riding?

All around the place; to Allpress to help Mummy get coffee beans, to the park, to my friends' houses.

What's the best bit about riding?

Downhill of course!

What do your mum and dad like doing around here?

They like to go to Allpress a lot. [speaking of themes - Ed]

I heard a rumour you like going to Farro - why is that?

Oh my - samples! I love samples.

What would you say is cool to do around here to someone who’s visiting?

Going to any shops here. Pt Erin Baths - there’s a cold pool and a warm pool that’s just right - not too hot, not too cold.

Is there anything that you would change about the area?

I would like it if there were slides that take you down from your house to the ground.

Also machines that meant if you were in your pyjamas they would automatically put your clothes on and put your sunblock on for you.

What do you think the impact of Donald Trump being elected United States president might have on Ponsonby?

I’m not sure - it might affect New Zealand not just Ponsonby. He might start a war and that might create World War III. We hear you have some really strong ideas about the future of Auckland transport? In fact, you contacted someone pretty famous didn't you?

Yes - I contacted Elon Musk, but I don’t think he got my message as he’s never replied.

I had an invention about taking things that are bad for the environment and they get sucked up into the motor and turned to fresh air, like smoke from cigarettes, any things that are on the ground - rubbish and cigarette butts. They get squashed up in a little metal box and get turned into fresh air. I wanted Elon Musk to build that in his Tesla cars.

PN I sent him pictures of how it would work. F Share more of our discoveries at www.keithandsandy.co.nz

80 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION NEW PRINCIPAL FOR AUCKLAND GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL Ngaire Ashmore has been appointed as the 10th principal of Auckland Girls’ Grammar School.

Continuing a tradition of strong, innovative and forward looking women, Mrs Ashmore, who formally takes up her position on 28 January, will also be AGGS first Maori Principal.

FAMILIES REQUIRED TO HOST STUDENTS With two daughters and five grandchildren, Jenny Goodwin has vast experience in meeting the daily needs of children and knows what it takes when it comes to hosting international students.

Jenny and her husband have hosted international students in their home for the past 25 years, so she understands the programme from the side of the host and of the student.

Jenny is the owner of College Homestay Ltd which has been in operation now for more than 30 years. During that time she has had the pleasure of building wonderful relationships between New Zealand host families and international students who attend a number of Auckland-based secondary schools.

“We believe in building personal relationships with students and families,” says Jenny.

“This starts from the time I meet the girls at the airport on their arrival and continues throughout the duration of their stay. I’m always available for students and host families with 24-hour support.”

So Jenny is currently looking for new families who are warm, kind and caring to join the College Homestay hosting programme; comparative rates are paid per week. Please contact Jenny if you feel this may be something you are interested in. F PN COLLEGE HOMESTAY LTD, M: 021 065 1942 or jgoodwin@aggs.school.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Mrs Ashmore comes to Auckland Girls’ from Tangaroa College where she has been Principal for the last 10 years. She has a Masters in Education Management (Hons). In 2014 she was seconded to the University of Auckland Centre for Education Leadership where she worked as a mentor for the first time Principals’ Programme and contributed and presented to Engaging with Families and Communities programmes.

In 2016 she was awarded Auckland Airport's 50th Anniversary Scholarship to support her study towards a PhD in Education.

Mrs Ashmore already has a connection with the school as her mother is a proud Auckland Girls’ old girl.

She is looking forward to working with the senior leadership team and staff to drive 21st Century teaching and learning.

She says, “It is a great honour and privilege to be the Principal of Auckland Girls’. AGGS has such a strong history of outstanding education for girls, which will stand us in good stead as we relentlessly pursue innovative opportunities that will prepare our girls for success in the future. I look forward to meeting and working in partnership with our parents and wider school community to ensure that AGGS is delivering an outstanding education for girls now and in the future.” F PN AUCKLAND GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL, 16 Howe Street, T: 09 307 4180, www.aggs.school.nz

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

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FUTURE GENERATION NEVERLAND STUDIOS HAS GOT DANCE COVERED Do you want your kids to learn dance in an exciting and super fun environment?

If so Neverland Studios is the place for you! The Ponsonby studio not only offers quality dance training, but does it in a fun and creative way, where your kids will never get bored.

There are a variety of classes available that range from hip hop, ballet, jazz, contemporary and musical theatre. Whatever you’re into, they cater to all levels and abilities. So whether you just want to have a bit of fun and build your child's confidence or you want to get more serious about their dancing, Neverland’s got it covered.

The thing that makes Neverland a ‘not your typical dance school’ is that we always look to the future and stay at the forefront of what is happening within the dance industry. They bring you the freshest and newest choreography, ensuring that each class is packed with excitement. Their teachers offer amazing knowledge and expertise, whilst creating a fun and supportive environment where your kids can grow and reach their full potential.

Our crews and troupes regularly travel overseas to compete at events such as Hip Hop World Champs, and your children can be a part of that too.

And what about world domination? If you’ve ever dreamt of dancing on an international stage or battling it out with the best in the world, Neverland Studios offer that opportunity.

NEVERLAND STUDIOS, Ponsonby Community Centre, 20 Ponsonby Terrace, T: 09 479 9321 www.neverlandstudios.co.nz

Enrolments are available now and spots for term 1 are filling fast. Ensure you don't miss out on this adventure.

PT ERIN POOL: AFFORDABLE AND SUPER FUN The gorgeous Pt Erin Pool is open for your enjoyment over summer.

Auckland weather hasn’t been the best so far, but don’t let that stop you from popping in for a spa or a coffee from the cafe. You may not realise that Pt Erin is free for children 16 years and under for the main pool, and just $1 for spectators.

Pt Erin has some great events coming up during February: • Raves in the Bay - a Friday night event on Friday 3 and 10 February from 7 to 9pm. This is a fun evening recommended for 8 to 16-year-olds - or bring the whole family and enjoy a picnic dinner.

• Inflatable Day - Saturday 11 February from 12 to 5pm. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day of inflatable fun!

• Bombing Competition - Saturday 18 February, 2 to 4pm. Come along and test your bombing skills to win the title of Bombing King!

Don’t forget safety. Under fives must be within arm’s reach of a caregiver 17 years or over, and children aged 10 and under must be actively supervised by a caregiver 17 years or over. Actively supervised means watching your children at all times and be able to provide immediate help. F PN PT ERIN POOL, Shelly Beach Road, Herne Bay, T: (09) 376 6863, www.clmnz.co.nz/pt-erin-pool

82 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NORTH SHORE // PONSONBY // PAKURANGA BALLET JAZZ HIP HOP CONTEMPORARY MUSICAL THEATRE

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PROFESSIONAL + PASSIONATE TEACHERS - EXAM + COMPETITION OPPORTUNITIES Enrol now for 2017 neverlandstudios.co.nz Â&#x153;vwViJÂ&#x2DC;iĂ&#x203A;iĂ&#x20AC;Â?>Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;`Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Ă&#x192;°VÂ&#x153;°Â&#x2DC;â 09 479 9321

MEET THE TEACHER Kylie McBeth - Westmere Primary Team Leader for Years 0-1, and responsible for the transition to school for New Entrants and new children to Westmere. One of a team of four teachers working with 80 children in ‘Studio 3’.

How did you come to be a primary school teacher?

I wanted a career where I could live and work anywhere, travel and be creative. Teaching ticked all the boxes. Plus, working with children is a lot of fun.

Where did you train?

Auckland University and then Unitec.

What brought you to your current school?

I left London after teaching at a school in Kensal Green for 11 years. I really enjoy being part of a community. The feel of a school is incredibly important to me and Westmere had just what I was looking for.

What are your favourite things about being a teacher?

Every day there are challenges, there is fun and a lot of laughing. I like the way I can work really hard during term time to get most of my work done so I can have time with my daughter and husband in the holidays.

What has been a highlight of your teaching career?

Getting a big smile from past students and them racing up to tell me about all their adventures.

What has been a low point?

Winters in London when I was on playground duty. It was dark at 2.30pm and there was no grass in sight. I really missed New Zealand schools and all they had to offer.

How would your principal describe you?

Positive and calm.

How would other teachers describe you?

She likes a tight ship.

$14.7M REDEVELOPMENT FOR GREY LYNN SCHOOL The Government will invest $14.7 million to redevelop Grey Lynn School in central Auckland, Education Minister Hekia Parata announced last December.

“This project will see ageing facilities replaced and will also set the school up to accommodate anticipated roll growth,” says Parata.

“As with many parts of the city, the population in central Auckland is growing rapidly, and we need to ensure local schools have the capacity to meet increased demand.”

The $14 million investment will deliver 14 new teaching spaces, including six roll growth and eight replacement classrooms, as well as new library and administration facilities and a multi-purpose hall.

“Site constraints mean a lot of work is being put into the design work for the redevelopment,” says Parata.

“The final plans will see a mix of two and three storey buildings, to ensure valuable outdoor recreation space can be retained.”

Early site works will be carried out over the summer holidays. Construction is expected to get underway in April 2017, and be completed by January 2019.

Grey Lynn School is one of 11 schools that are part of the recently established Waiorea Community of Learning (CoL). CoLs are about increasing student achievement by schools working together to share expertise and lift the quality of teaching and learning.

Today’s announcement means over $268 million worth of school redevelopments have been announced or have commenced in Auckland over the past six months, including Macleans College, Te Kura Maori o Nga Tapuwae, Te Atatu Intermediate School, Te Huruhi School, Waiheke High School, Northcote Primary School, Newmarket School, Clayton Park School, Takapuna Primary School, Bayswater School, Western Springs College, Freemans Bay School, Papatoetoe Central School, The Gardens School and Southern Cross Campus. F PN

How would your students describe you?

She tells funny stories.

If you could wave a magic wand in your classroom...

I would use it at the end of each day to put all the toys and equipment back in the right place so it was all ready for the next day. I must say I love a tidy classroom!

Five tips for mums and dads of primary school kids: 1. Read the newsletters! Then pop those important dates straight into your diary so that there will be no surprises during the term.

2. Get your child to school well before the first bell rings. That sets your child up for a settled day of learning.

3. Your child knows a lot about their own learning even if they have just started school.

Ask them about what they are learning to do and what they are really good at. If you are worried about your child's learning, make an appointment to see the teacher rather than losing sleep.

4. You don't need to sign up for everything, but coming into the school or classroom will help to make you feel a part of the school and build relationships with the other parents, teachers and your child's classmates. This doesn't have to be every day or every week. You can pick one thing to help with over the year like the disco or bake sale.

5. Look at the walls in the classroom; they can tell you a lot about what the children have been learning and the journey they might be taking in a topic area.

Kylie McBeth

84 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOOK... WHO IS IN THE ZOO!

African arrivals great and small It’s been an unprecedented and emotional month for Auckland Zoo with the birth of premature twin giraffe calves to our female giraffe Kiraka, and the hatching of a very special flamingo chick.

Giraffe twins are extremely rare, with only a little over 30 documented cases worldwide.

Sadly, our staff had to make the tough (but absolutely right) decision to euthanise the male calf, who was extremely weak and unable to suckle and function independently.

“Despite being smaller, the female was a lot stronger than the male from the get-go. She formed a bond and suckled from mum Kiraka straight away, and so far so good, she is continuing to progress really well,” says Pridelands team leader, Nat Sullivan.

Nat, who has worked with giraffe for 16 years, and witnessed many giraffe births, describes the experience of the first two days of 2017 as “incredibly intense, very tough at times, but a great privilege and mind blowing to be part of.”

The yet-to-be-named female calf is being gradually integrated with the rest of her giraffe family, and as Ponsonby News goes to print, she is also beginning to go out into the African Savannah paddock. This zoo’s giraffe herd, which is part of an Australasian regional breeding programme for the vulnerable African species, has now grown to five.

Along with this newborn, her mum Kiraka and dad Zablula, the herd also includes adult female Rukiya and Kiraka and Zabulu’s 16-month-old male calf Mtundu.

In 2014, Auckland Zoo made headlines for being the first in Australasia to breed Greater flamingo chicks, as well as the first zoo in the world to successfully breed from an entirely hand-reared flock.

photography: Lydia Uddstrom

Just a few days after the giraffe births, Nat and her team also welcomed the arrival of a flamingo chick.

The zoo’s yet-to-be-named female giraffe calf with seven-year-old mum Kiraka

Former exotic birds team leader, now head of capital works and infrastructure, Michael Batty raised and transported Auckland Zoo’s flock of Greater flamingos to New Zealand in 2001, from the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) in Slimbridge, England. photography: JEmma Wells

Along with Nat, he assisted with the hatching of this new chick.

“The chick was taking longer to hatch, so we gave it a helping hand by very carefully removing some of its egg shell,” says Michael.

The sex of this chick won’t be determined for some time and it’ll be a few months before visitors can see it on display with its parents and the rest of our flamingo flock, but Nat says it’s progressing well.

See red-tailed black cockatoos and other stunning Australian animals in the new Strangely Beautiful Australia exhibit

“It’s a really cool little chick, is now very active, already standing on one leg, and getting bigger every day. The other great news is that we also have more flamingo eggs incubating so, fingers crossed, this little chick may have other chicks to grow up with,” says Nat.

The zoo’s open late - make it a date!

Auckland Zoo is offering locals and visitors to the city the opportunity to make the most of the long summer evenings with late night openings every Thursday from 2 February until 9 March (5pm - 8pm).

The zoo is posting regular updates on both the giraffe calf and flamingo on its website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, so be sure to check in.

Many of our animals are still up, our cafes will be open, and zookeepers will be offering a great programme of special animal encounters, making the zoo the perfect place to dine out or picnic and get back to nature with your family or friends.

Did you know?

• A baby flamingo is brown/grey in colour and does not turn pink until it reaches two years of age.

• A flamingo’s bright pink colouring comes from eating shrimp-like crustaceans.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Tickets are just $12 per person and can be purchased from Eventfinda or at Auckland Zoo on the night.

Auckland Zoo ‘Summer Lates’ run on 2, 9, 16, and 23 February, and on 2 and 9 March.

Visit www.aucklandzoo.co.nz DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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ANGELA BEER: PETS & PATS FOUNDER

PETS AND PATS LUXURY DOG DAYCARE AND FARMSTAYS Welcome to Dog Disneyland, a 20-acre farm, 18 minutes from Ponsonby, where your dog can do as much or as little as they like, all in the safety of their own private, gated, secure, country estate. We pick up and drop off to your home/office.

Pricing from $40. Free $195 complimentary voucher for you to use for a no-obligation trial.

Daycare: We look after a small, discerning number of local families. We are like the private school of dog daycare. We have the largest and best facility in the country with the smallest numbers of dogs, the largest indoor and outdoor spaces and lots of one-on-one individual attention with our highly skilled staff. Kids can swim, play, unwind in our play paddocks, bushwalks, tennis courts, pool and cinema lounge.

Farmstays: We only have eight VIP guests staying per night and they sleep inside our luxury farmhouse with all the creature comforts they enjoy at home. When looking for care for your beloved pet, here are some questions I encourage parents to ask when interviewing potential places/services.

1. Ask how many dogs are in your facility/care?

2. Ask what is the staff to dog ratio and what qualifications do your staff have? So you can ensure your dog is getting quality one-on-one attention.

3. Ask what does my dog do in your care? Find out how much time is spent in cages or inside vs how much time exercising/playing, etc.

4. Ask what onsite care is available when my dog is with you. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not uncommon for some places when dogs are put to bed from 4pm to not have anyone living on site during the night. You should also ask how close is the nearest vet.

5. If using a dog walking service, ask where do you walk my dog, is it safe, how many dogs do you take out at a time, how long is my dog travelling in a vehicle for, what happens if there is an accident? Do you have insurance should anything happen to my dog or my home?

At Pets and Pats, we understand dogs are our best friends and cherished members of our family, they deserve nothing but the best. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to try the Pets and Pats experience, please call for your $195 free complimentary voucher. We look forward to welcoming you.

Dog HQ: Herne Bay; Country Estate: Dairy Flat. M: 021 539 699, angela@petsandpats.com facebook.com/petsandpats

@ SPCA - ANIMALS IN NEED OF HOMES

Bob & Todd - bonded rabbits

Polly

86 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

Cookie

Portia

Selena PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE AND COOL DURING SUMMER Now that summer and its long hot days have arrived, it’s a good time to think about keeping your pets cool and protect them from the sun’s powerful rays.

When walking your dog, be aware of the five-second rule; if you can’t hold the back of your hand on the hot ground for longer than five seconds, then it’s too hot for your dog to walk on. Best to give them exercise in the morning or evening to keep their paws safe.

Ensure they also have a plentiful supply of fresh water, and if they spend a lot of time outside, a covered, shaded area (ie, a cool kennel) they can retreat to.

Whether an indoor or outdoor cat, provide your feline companion with plenty of shady spots to sleep and get away from the sun and heat - if they stay inside, keep the house well ventilated to keep the temperature down. If your cat has a pale nose or ears, make sure to apply sun-block daily, and of course ensure they have a generous supply of fresh water available.

Rabbits can overheat easily so allow them access to plenty of shade. A tip for ensuring they stay cool and comfortable is to place ice bricks wrapped in a towel in their hutch, or a cold marble tile which they can lie on or against - these will both provide cool spots for them if placed in a shady spot.

If you have birds that live outside in aviaries, look at installing tarpaulins or extra coverings to protect them from the sun’s rays. F PN For more advice on caring for your pets, visit our website www.spcaauckland.org.nz/animal-care

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Theo Key and Mickey Theo Key is nine years old. He told Ponsonby News, “I love swimming in the sea, reading Harry Potter stories and watching Star Wars movies.

I do Nippers at Sunset Beach in Port Waikato and want to be a Lifesaver one day. I go to Grey Lynn school.

How old is Mickey, and what breed is he?

Mickey is eight human years old. He’s Abyssinian, originally from North Africa - the Egyptians used to mummify them.

How long have you had him?

Since I was one year old. I am now nine, so eight years.

How did you come to choose Mickey?

My Mum bought him because Dad liked how friendly they were when he saw a kitten in the window of a pet shop in Sydney.

How did Mickey get his name?

My sister Lola named him Mickey because she liked Mickey Mouse. Dad wanted to call him ‘CatDog’.

What is your favourite thing to do together?

I like cuddling and giving him pats; Mickey likes to sleep everywhere.

Does Mickey have any friends?

Definitely not. He is a bit like a dog and he ignores or fights with other cats sometimes.

What does Mickey like to eat?

Dry cat food from the vet because it is good for his gums. F PN

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

THE TRUE AND ONLY VERY SLIGHTLY EXAGGERATED TALES OF CHESTER PONSONBY

FRIDAY 13TH GOOD LUCK FOR BLACK DOGS

Chester has survived yet another year, despite frequently crossing Ponsonby Road, Richmond Road, Williamson Avenue and Karangahape Road, often at midnight.

More than 24 dogs are hoping for a lucky break last month on Friday the 13th as they wait in Auckland Council animal shelters for new families.

Neighbours have reported the cat lying in the sun, on the road in front of the house and cars swerving to avoid him. He’s had 99 lives, thanks to the care and kindness of Ponsonby people.

He has developed a good street network of people to visit regularly.

On some days, however, he seems to have real wanderlust.

Out one morning, he managed four visits, including some of his regular stops, Prego, Fifth Ave Menswear and Seven Day Chester in Vermont Street, sitting in Pharmacy, where I collected him. I’m not sure where his coat the box of the man who set up the became covered in biddy-biddys. Although not adverse to a bit community libraries round Ponsonby. of tree climbing, he’s a true city cat and prefers walking on the pavement rather than on the grass berm. There was a phone call that same night from a Collingwood Street couple, anxious that he was far from home: he’d climbed their many stairs, walked into their house and made himself at home. He went AWOL for five days before I was alerted that he was at the Uenuku Lodge backpackers, in Ponsonby Road. He had not been offered a room as, until the manager examined the tag, he thought Chester lived in Arthur Street.

Sometimes he takes the concept of ‘neighbourly.co.nz’ a bit far. Our intrepid adventurer stowed away in a car parked by the Vermont Street children’s playground. The mother had seen him by the car door, but thought nothing of it, until they reached their Benson Road home in Remuera and her four-year-old said incredulously, “Mummy, there’s a cat in the car!” One Friday Chester lolled contentedly in the sun on my footpath and snuggled in very happily on the Saturday morning. In between, he did the very long walk to the top of Turakina Street.

After six nights at the Ponsonby Vet, Williamson Avenue cattery, and only one attempted retaliatory leg bite, Chester had several very cuddly home days and friendly licks were given (not two-way!) But then he found his wander legs and was out all night. He crossed Wellington Street in the morning, then he was taken to an Airbnb where a children’s cooking class was in progress. Although the owner’s dogs thought he was interesting, I did not benefit from Chester cooking me anything. After another stint at that cattery, a night out was insufficient to compensate: the next afternoon he had to also go to the Richmond Road Dairy and the laundromat. Did he need his tuxedo dry-cleaned or his spats washed?

Chester has a range of interests; he has checked out new season’s clothing at Smoove and he has inspected food outlets like the Richmond Road Countdown (fresh fish, please?). Chester, a true Ponsonbyite, enjoyed the buzz of the Christmas lights and their spectators, on Franklin Road. He can display artistic taste - he has visited Klein Design Studio, College Hill, and Arch Design, Douglas Street, but he continues to frequent Ponsonby Road bars. I don’t think he preloads. He was lured again by the weekend night vibe of the Ponsonby Road strip people, music, lights, action: Little Easy at midnight (well, he’s little, and apparently easy). At The Whiskey he sat on a stool at the bar - alas, no selfie - before trotting off down the road to Ponsonby Terrace. Such a cool cat: will he become enough of a regular to have his own bar stool?

But he is really affectionate towards me. He knows this is a place called home. (PAM TARULEVICZ) F PN

Adopting a shelter dog was the recommended antidote to 'Black Friday' the 13th, allowing Aucklanders to turn their own luck around by making the day lucky for a lost dog.

“We had a bumper crop of dogs that were abandoned or lost over the holiday break. They’d much rather be playing fetch with their new families at this time of year than sitting in our shelters,” says Tracey Moore, Manager, Animal Management.

“Black dogs are particularly lucky and we have lots to choose from at the moment. We have two playful and bouncy Labrador-Aussie Shepherd cross dogs, a girl named Leia and a boy named Obi, both five years old. They are super -cuddly and love being around people.

“Wookie, our eight-year-old black poodle, is still a puppy at heart and loves his tennis ball best of all.

“Leia is a three year old black miniature pinscher with brown tips. She’s a little shy at first but her high energy and playfulness soon come out - she loves to do zoomies.”

Tracey says potential owners can follow Auckland Council Animal Shelters on Facebook or on the Auckland Council website if they want to know what 'zoomies' are.

Luck’s certainly on the side of this barking black bevy - 644 dogs were rehomed from Auckland Council shelters last year, 100% of adoptable dogs.

Tracey Moore recommends dog owners make their own luck by ensuring their dogs are registered and microchipped, with up to date contact details.

“With the aid of this information, we were able to reunite 119 lost dogs with their families over the holidays,” she PN says. F

TEN THINGS NOT TO FEED YOUR DOG AT BARBECUES Summer’s here, it’s barbecue season and there’s no bigger mooch around the barbecue than your dog - and how can you resist those begging eyes?

Well, for the sake of your beloved pet, you need to toughen up and keep the leftovers away from prying noses, says Tracey Moore, Manager, Animal Management for Auckland Council.

“Garlic, onions and sausages are key to a successful people barbecue, but potential death traps for dogs.”

Here’s our top 10 human foods you should not feed your dog at the barbie:

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• • • • •

Alcohol of any sort Ham Garlic Corn cobs Grapes

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Cooked bones Onions Sauces Chocolate Cheese

Tracey Moore also cautions party hosts not to leave the rubbish within reach of mooching dogs.

“Not only will they make a mess, but they could eat cooked bones, corn cobs, plastic food wrap or kebab skewers that have been thrown away,” she says.

“Dogs aren’t people and shouldn’t be fed people-food.

They also shouldn’t be encouraged to mooch around people who are eating, but should be fed a normal dog diet at their regular eating time.” F PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: LOGAN GRANGER

Five factors to lead your family business to success In New Zealand, family business is one of the key pillars of the economy. This sector is continuously growing but also experiencing the unique range of concerns from succession planning to managing family politics.

Despite their prevalence, many family businesses do not survive beyond the second generation. As per PwC Family Business Survey 2016, only 39% of second generations succeed the family business and continue it on. Here are five factors that may help your family business to get through those issues.

1. Define values in your family Understanding your family’s values should be done in the early stages as it is extremely important in business structuring. It enables the younger generations to get an idea of what their roles are and the responsibilities to take care of when it comes to the family business. Well-defined values will enable the business to have a sound foundation which helps your family to come through difficulties and move forward.

2. Have unrelated person in your business to get an outside point of view It is difficult to keep a degree of objectivity with your family members and this will impact on your business decisions. You need impartial advice from a qualified outsider who can assist you to define the roles and responsibilities. Honest opinions are required to review plans for growth and making changes to the business direction. Having an impartial opinion from skilled person can be extremely helpful.

3. Home is home, business is business Don’t bring your business issues home and don’t bring up your family issues at the workplace. Keep your business life and home life separate. Getting these two areas tangled will not only make you lose an objective view of your business but make the family bond weak. Losing your family relationship will never have positive impact on your business.

4. Make it clear by getting it on paper The majority of family businesses will have promises and plans done verbally and not on paper because it seems bit ‘over-the-top’ for the families. However, not documenting the agreed terms and the rules can be a very costly mistake. It is vital to make the lines clear, for the business, between the family members as it will save you from the unnecessary arguments, time, money and even the loss of family relationships. If you are having a conflict with family members over the business, have a conflict resolution process in place and use your impartial advisor to help if necessary to prevent the same issues from recurring in the future.

5. Get your succession plan sorted when you can Succession is especially important for businesses that are planning to transition between different generations within five years. Planning can take many years to develop and implement so why not plan ahead when you can? To successfully pass on the business, you need to have sufficient time for training and for the gradual relinquishing of control.

The state of New Zealand’s family business is going strong. They are ever growing so why not for your family business? It can be passed on to the next generation successfully and also go out globally with great legacy. Make it clear, communicate with your family and be positive. (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 PROFESSIONALS: METROLAW GOT A LEGAL QUESTION? ASK MICHAEL@METROLAW.CO.NZ

Email Michael with your question and include PONSONBY NEWS in the subject line. Michael Hemphill, a partner of the firm, will answer one topical question each month.

Q:

I run a restaurant with my business partner, we each own half the business.

My business partner has recently had a heart attack. He is on the mend and about to start back at work but the incident has raised alarm bells. What would happen if my partner gets sick again and needs more time off or can’t work at all? I’m not sure I would be able to buy out his half of the business and continue to run the restaurant. Thanks, Curtis.

A:

It seems to me that there are two aspects to this. What happens if your business partner is not able to work in the business for a period of time and what happens if he needs to exit the business.

The first thing you need to consider is what arrangements are already in place. Is your business run as a partnership or through a company? Do you have any insurances in place?

Would your business be able to continue operating without your partner working? Does the business have key person insurance to be able to hire another person to perform the role of your partner while he is away?

If your business is run as a partnership then you might have a partnership agreement that sets out your agreement with your business partner. If you don’t then you fall back on the general law relating to partnerships and the Partnership Act. If your business is run as a company, then the company’s constitution and/or shareholders’ agreement (if you have either) will determine the process for a shareholder exiting the company. Your business may have a buy-sell agreement which will determine what events would trigger a buyout of a partner or shareholder and detail the insurance arrangements in place to provide funding for these transactions.

Unfortunately, in my experience many businesses may not have any arrangements or insurance in place or the agreements may not have been reviewed recently and kept updated.

If you have not got any arrangements in place then as your business partner has recently had a health scare, this is an opportunity for you both to sit down and work this out. You may still be able to obtain insurance to cover some circumstances and you can get agreements in place that are workable for everyone. Having an agreement in place can remove a lot of worry and uncertainty for everyone involved. Do not hesitate to contact me should you require any further information.

PN (MICHAEL HEMPHILL) F Disclaimer - this article is for general information purposes only. If you have a legal problem you should seek advice from a lawyer. Metro Law does not accept any liability other than to its clients and then only when advice is sought on specific matters.

METRO LAW, Level 1, 169A Ponsonby Road, T: 09 929 0800, www.metrolaw.co.nz

90 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

George Bowler - General Manager at Crane Brothers George Bowler was recently appointed General Manager of Crane Brothers Contemporary Tailors.

“I'd always wanted to work for the company,” he says, “as I really admire what Murray Crane has built through hard work and determination over the past 19 years. He has created a culture of impeccable dressing amongst New Zealand men that previously did not exist. My role as GM is incredibly busy and wide-reaching, but I'm loving the challenge and no two days are the same.”

Where do you live?

I live in Herne Bay, just a stone's throw from the water.

Do you have any children?

I have two sons Luca and Heath who are six and three respectively. They're the apples of my eyes.

Your mother would say of you...

That I tell too many stories.

Your best friend would say of you...

I actually had to call my best friend to ask them this. Apparently I'm a good storyteller with a wealth of amusing life anecdotes. I have found myself in many 'curious' situations over the years, so I'm glad others find them entertaining.

How do you keep fit?

I have a bit of a 'dad bod' thing happening at the moment, which is slightly horrifying to me. I've started going on big walks around Herne Bay, Ponsonby and Grey Lynn with my friend Julia in an attempt to combat late-30s gravity. I imagine I'll finally succumb to peer pressure and start yoga at some point as well, though I draw the line at chanting.

What's your perfect Sunday?

Wearing track pants, lazing around with friends and slow-cooking something delicious.

What's your secret talent?

I can play the trumpet. I started lessons when I was five and went right through until I was 18. I still have the horn that my parents bought for me on a trip to New York in the late 80s. If either of my kids show any musical inkling, I'll pass it on to them.

And your secret passion?

Penny Loafers for days.

Who’s your ultimate rock icon?

Thom Yorke - the voice of a jilted Generation X. Name your desert island distractions…

The 1997 album 'Roofers' by Breaks Co-Op and any book by David Sedaris.

What's inspired you recently?

My son Luca's Father's Day card to me. Totally undeserved praise, but I'll take it. It read: "To Dad. You can run like a cheetah. You can sneak like a ninger. You can draw a picture like a artist. I love playing with my kite with you. I love going to the park. I love you Dad. Happy Fathers Day. Love Luca."

Which is your favourite Ponsonby restaurant?

Ponsonby Road Bistro, hands down. Always an inspired, seasonal menu by Sarah Conway and seamless, elegant service courtesy of Melissa Morrow.

Your favourite Ponsonby store?

Melanie Roger Gallery. While she's not strictly in Ponsonby, she's just around the corner on Jervois Road. I love the portfolio of artists she represents and there's always something in the window to entice you inside.

Your best kept Ponsonby secret?

Curio Noir. Hidden behind the heavy velvet drapes is an absolute oasis of scent, created by the supremely talented Tiffany Jeans.

The house is on fire and your family is safe - what do you save?

I have a very small, but very special collection of art that various friends have created for me. I'd brave the flames for every piece.

“I'd be lost without...”

My family. They've been there for me through thick and thin and I count my blessings every day that they're a part of my life.

What were you going to be when you grew up?

I'd always wanted to be an architect from a very young age. However, I went to Architecture School in my first year of university and hated it, once I realised it involved maths and physics.

One thing you have learned about life is..?

It's impossible to try and please everyone. Learning to say 'no' every once and a while won't kill you.

How did you come to be a general manager in the fashion industry?

Like many people in the fashion, I cut my teeth on the shop floor. It's the best place to start and no matter where you end up in the industry, it's important to always retain that link to retail. It keeps you in touch with your clientele and is crucial for maintaining a strong team.

Your advice to young Ponsonby people aspiring to work in the fashion industry?

Patience, hard work and a thick skin. Working in the fashion industry can be a very demanding, often thankless, career to pursue. However, dedication, hard work and talent are noticed and rewarded. Just stick with it and don't take things too personally. www.crane-brothers.com

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

HERE AMONG THE WILD - GET LOST IN ITS BEAUTY Here Among the Wild sits lush and pretty on the Jervois strip, tempting passersby to enter a cool, beautifully curated jungle.

Palms, plants and a range of colourful and unusual flowers adorn the new space.

This isn’t your average flower shop and Yolande Palmer isn’t your average florist. Initially a sculptural artist, Yolande trained and worked in floral design in the South of France, catering to both simple and elaborate tastes alike. Her in-home installations stand as proof of her artistic background, sculpting still pieces that are brimming with life and movement.

Up before dawn and carefully selecting fresh blooms at the flower markets, Yolande is a true creative spirit and does not restrict her work to the markets alone. Many early mornings are spent pruning plants or drying flowers to craft unique bouquets and no two are identical.

Here Among the Wild is reflective of its owner’s dedication and aesthetic. It is a welcoming space that encourages you to get lost in its beauty, like a botanical garden tucked away in Ponsonby. Each week brings new foliage with Yolande available for consultations for anything from bouquets to installations to events.

With a belief that beauty must be shared, Here Among the Wild also provides floral design workshops for individuals and groups. If you’re the social type, follow @ hereamongthewild on Instagram and Facebook for a look at what the shop has produced in its infancy. F PN

HERE AMONG THE WILD, 28 Jervois Road, T: 09 360 4160

MEET ANAH JORDAN Get ready to see this face on real estate signs all around Ponsonby.

Anah Jordan from Barfoot & Thompson may have changed branches, but the same great service remains. A high performer from the city division, Anah is now based at Barfoot & Thompson’s Ponsonby office.

She has also moved back into the area to live. “It’s like coming home again,” says Anah.

“I’ve lived in and around Ponsonby for many years. In fact, I lived right on Lincoln Street - the same street, our Ponsonby Barfoot & Thompson branch corners.”

Anah’s highly successful sales and marketing career spans more than 15 years. She has brought many skills to the industry from home-staging to brand manager of Urbis magazine. She is also a well-respected social media expert and has been in your shoes many times buying and selling property of her own.

92 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

With an astute understanding of the Ponsonby market, Anah is perfectly positioned to market your property in the same way she has done for countless others.

“Thanks to the power of the Barfoot & Thompson network, I’ve sold property right across Auckland and everything from apartments, townhouses, to large family homes.”

When Anah’s not working, you might see her out and about with her spoodle, Murphy.

“He’s the most handsome PA in real estate!”

If you’re looking for honesty, a genuine commitment to exceed your expectations and a hugely enjoyable experience with a twinkle in her eye, meet Anah Jordan. F PN ANAH JORDON, M: 022 127 9080, www.facebook.com/anahjrealestate www.instagram.com/anahjrealestate

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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MILLY NOLAN: DESIGNER GIFTS

Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a picnic Make the most of the daylight hours and balmy evenings by enjoying a sneaky picnic with your lover or friends at your favourite beach or even just at home in the garden. With these picnic essentials, you can truly do it in style.

1. Sunnylife Montauk Picnic Chair - $110 Comfortable as well as light-in-weight, this stylish picnic chair can be easily carried to wherever your picnic location may be.

2. Sunnylife Montauk Cooler Tote - $49 Practical as well as stylish, both your food and wine will be kept cool and well-protected in this insulated cooler tote.

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3. Sunnylife Montauk Beach Umbrella - $120 Stay sun-safe with this stylish geometric print beach umbrella. It even comes with a practical carry bag for carting around on all your summer adventures.

4. Govino Plastic Wine Glass Set - $35 They may be made of plastic, but the Govino wine glasses are so elegant in design that it's easy to mistake them as glass.

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5. Kakkoii WOW Bluetooth Speaker - $119 Play your favourite tunes all summer long with this indestructible and compact bluetooth speaker - keep it in your car so youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re never lost without it.

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6. Montauk Beach & Picnic Blanket - $99 Both waterproof and durable, this beach and picnic blanket will stand the test of time and is also easily transportable as it folds into a carry bag complete with a shoulder strap.

7. Lovers Picnic Kit - $49 Created especially with romantic picnic dates in mind, this crafty picnic kit incudes all the essentials needed for dinner for two.

(MILLY NOLAN) F PN 7

All products available at www.mildredandco.com

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94 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

FEDERAL ELECTRIC DESKS @ SYSTEMS COMMERCIAL Systems Commerical has just landed a fantastic shipment of these Federal Electric desks which have four digital preset height settings. They are smooth and have a very quiet operation.

A great way to burn off some of the holiday indulgence!

SYSTEMS COMMERCIAL, 118-122 Nelson Street, T: 09 369 1880, www.systemscommercial.com

FOLLOW THE SUN @ DESIGN WAREHOUSE 1. Create a relaxed, yet sophisticated seating area with our A-grade teak Manhattan Collection. Sunbrella® cushions with quick dry foam included. Compare before you buy. We have the best quality, prices and selection.

2. Follow the sun with our Antigua Round Cantilever Umbrella, it tilts and rotates 360º and opens and closes with ease. We have over 25 different styles of umbrellas to choose from. All in stock ready to install today.

3. Lie back and relax in the summer sun on the contemporary Tango lounger. One of our 20 styles of loungers for summer relaxing, available to take home today.

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4. The Elle relaxing chair is so chic in black wicker, and it's a dream to sit in. Visit us to see the largest selection outdoor relaxing chairs.

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DESIGN WAREHOUSE, 137/147 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 377 7710, www.designwarehouse.co.nz

96 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

K KARIN MCIVER

LOOK TO KARIN FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS With a genuine commitment to understanding client requirements and delivering a carefully targeted marketing campaign, Karin will apply her versatile mix of creative abilities and personal expertise to achieve both success and superior outcomes for you. Present residents can also PSSO XS 0EVMR [MXL GSRǻHIRGI JSV WSYRH EHZMGI and professional service when looking to meet your changing residential needs.

Let’s talk real estate! Call me on 029 382 4122

Licensed REAA 2008

Substantial Family Villa

Open Sat & Sun

71 Shelly Beach Road, St Marys Bay

12.00 - 12.45pm

AUCTION 2th February at 1pm On Site (unless sold prior)

Positioned in a premier location on one of St Marys Bay’s most sought after streets sits this large character villa with a very desirable north facing aspect. Offering generously proportioned rooms some with 3.4m high stud, wooden floors throughout and gorgeous leadlight windows in many rooms this home will charm you from the minute you step inside. The large galley style kitchen runs almost the width of the room and opens out through full height bifold doors to a superb outdoor entertainment area complete with outdoor fireplace. Recently upgraded this home is ready for you to move in and enjoy as is or add value and make your mark if you so desire. Being one of Auckland’s older and more exclusive residential areas, property in St Mary’s Bay is tightly held and for good reason. Here is your opportunity to move into this very sought after location and enjoy the best of what this suburb and Auckland city has to offer.

Licensed REAA 2008

Karin McIver P 029 382 4122 W karinmciver.com

MY FAVOURITE ROOM Dan Eagle My wife and I own a mid-century design store in Ponsonby called Mr. Bigglesworthy.

I have a background in accounting but you can’t be too creative in that industry or you'd end up in jail!

Emma and I live with our grumpy little dog called Buster.

We recently downsized from a three bedroomed bungalow to a much smaller one bedroom unit.

We’ve spent most of our married life living close to Ponsonby but have never quite managed to make it inside the boundaries. Our first home was in Kingsland and then in Mt Albert.

My favourite room is our living room, the largest room in our unit. This is basically where everything happens.

It’s a lounge, dining room and office all compacted into one space.

The living room is small but cosy and has everything we need. My favourite thing in the room? My mid-century George Nelson executive bar cart and the contents inside.

MR BIGGLESWORTHY, 15 Williamson Avenue, T: 021 672 446, www.mrbigglesworthy.co.nz

98 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

LIVING AND BREATHING ‘LOCAL’ FOR 25 YEARS In 1992, Repeka Lelaulu was just starting out in real estate. Brimming with enthusiasm, she began her career at Empire Realty in Greenwoods Corner in Epsom.

The office was a boutique, family business run by a Chinese gentleman by the name of Arthur Fong.

Repeka says, “Being Samoan, Arthur Fong’s values of caring for family and community and his belief in hard work appealed to me and I felt instantly at home.”

Ironically, her very first sale was 22 Second Avenue in Kingsland. At that time, no one from the Epsom office had ever ventured to Kingsland but Repeka was keen for the challenge.

It’s funny how things often work in cycles. Eight years ago, she joined the Grey Lynn office of Barfoot & Thompson - she is again selling in Kingsland, Grey Lynn and Ponsonby and everywhere in between.

“I like the nostalgia of our local community,” says Repeka “especially the unique things we have inherited from our forebears and the way that they blend with the new. There is still a sense of industriousness and intrepidness about these inner city suburbs; they have a way of changing and adapting with the times.

Repeka Lelaulu with Garth Barfoot at Barfoot & Thompson Regional Awards 2016 held at the Auckland Yacht Club

“Many local businesses have been here for years and I still appreciate the way shops like the Surrey Crescent dairy continue to sell rolled ice-creams in cones and that clubs like the Richmond Rovers are still located ‘just around the corner’.”

Repeka believes there is a lot to be said for belonging to a community and having a sense of place. Growing up in Herne Bay and working locally for the past 25 years has certainly given her an appreciation of the unique qualities of the inner city fringe. It’s older, more wistful aspects give it a sense of history and mark it as unique.

“In real estate, we call these qualities ‘character features’ and time only adds to the beauty of these attributes. Luckily for us, our local suburbs are infused with them.” F PN REPEKA LELAULU, Barfoot & Thompson Grey Lynn, T: 0274 990 855, www.facebook.com/repekalelaulurealestate www.barfoot.co.nz/r.lelaulu

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

@ FORMA

@ DAWSON & CO 1 & 2. English Beam Console & Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton.

Built with character, the English Beam is handcrafted from genuine reclaimed beams.

Beautiful strong vintage wood, re-imagined into classic, simple furniture.

3. Nirvana Sectional Sofa by Timothy Oulton A sandwich of multiple density high quality foam and fibre layers are supported by pocket springs to create a luxuriously loungeful experience. A low back keeps it casual while angled arms are cushioned just the right amount for slouching.

4. Junk Art Propeller Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton The distinctive Junk Art Propeller coffee table is handcrafted from the propellers of decommissioned Chinese fishing junks, topped with a simple pane of glass.

1. Forma Hudson Chair A timeless classic with a contemporary twist.The subtle buttoning and soft seat cushion make this chair a stunning and inviting feature piece.

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2. Forma Costa Sofa Viro high-end synthetic fibre weave with Sunbrella outdoor fabric and quick-dry foam.

3. Forma Piggy Bank $400.

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DAWSON & CO, 115 The Strand, Parnell and 38 Constellation Drive, North Shore, T: 09 476 1121, www.dawsonandco.nz

FORMA, 51-53 The Strand Parnell, T: 09 368 7694, www.forma.co.nz, ww.facebook.com/formafurniturenz

PLANNING ON SELLING YOUR HOME? ‘you can’t sell a secret... good marketing makes a difference every time’ www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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STREET NAMES: THE HISTORICAL BOROUGH OF PONSONBY AND GREY LYNN

Renall Street This Freemans Bay street was named after Alfred William Renall who was born in Essex and sailed to New Zealand on the ‘Martha Ridgeway’ in 1840.

He received useful training when employed by his father who was a miller and a carpenter -trades that were needed in the new colony. On arrival he first worked as a carpenter in Wellington then tried farming, which occupied him for several years. He was thrown into contact with Maori from whom he gleaned a wealth of information and from 1841-42 was called upon to act as undertaker for several old warriors such as Waireporo, the warlike chief of the Ngati Awa. Anecdotally, he often referred to himself during that time as the Undertaker to the Black Brigade.

In about 1849, a man named Charles Mabey commenced to build a watermill at Taita.

Mabey was unable to complete the work and Renall took over and completed it by the end of 1850 and commenced milling. It was the first watermill to be erected in the Hutt Valley. Renall applied himself with great zeal to his new enterprise, working successfully for many years.

In 1853 he was induced by fellow colonists to enter the political arena. The first Provincial Council for Wellington was established later in the year. Renall added his name to the list of candidates and even though he was competing against popular men, he succeeded in reaching the head of the poll but only by a single vote. In 1850 he became a member of Parliament and was later a member of the General Assembly for six years representing Wellington on a national political level.

Wellington was already noted for the frequency and violence of its earthquakes and in 1855 ‘the great earthquake’ shook the city. Fortunately this struck on a general holiday and even though The Provincial Council was in session it was adjourned in honour of the province’s anniversary.

This was just as well because the upper floor where the meeting would have taken place collapsed to the ground floor level and fatalities were most likely to have occurred.

Renall suffered financially by damages to the mill but it was repaired and continued to work till 1858 when it was damaged by a flood in which several settlers drowned.

Sir George Grey granted relief by setting aside a large tract of land that victims of the flood could access on easy terms. Renall along with others named the site Masterton and Greytown and having splendid waterpower he erected another waterwheel equal to 20-horsepower. Back into politics with a vengeance, he was elected as a member of the General Assembly which sat in Auckland. He next established the first road board in Masterton of which he became chairman and acted as engineer as well, laying the first road. He also built some of the bridges.

At this time he became involved in an organisation called the Small Farmers Association that was formed with the intent to prevent the Waiararapa being taken over by large run holders and ensure ordinary folks could afford to buy parcels of land. The Association is still active today.

About 1875 he took a trip back to England and during his absence a town board replaced the old road board. When he returned he sketched out the boundaries for the Masterton borough of which he was elected mayor three times. In 1859 he was sworn in before a judge as a justice of the peace, a position he held for many years. He was a very colourful mayor and hugely popular, a larger-than-life character who was very outspoken with a fondness for story-telling and a very successful self-promoter. In his late 70s, he retired from the council.

Apparently he was a philanthropist who gave money to the needy and bags of flour to the Salvation Army. He was also a Free Thinker which was a common 19th Century term for those who who based their opinions on logic and reason. Nevertheless he respected church-goers but believed people were entitled to have their own thoughts about the hereafter. Perhaps this was because four of his 16 children met violent deaths. One was shot, another burned to death, the third crushed in a windmill and the fourth killed by a falling tree. Four others died leaving only eight alive before Renall himself shuffled off this mortal coil.

Renall lived to a great old age, from 1913 till1902. He had been a good colonist in every respect and must certainly be numbered among New Zealand’s successful setters. When PN he died the turnout at his funeral was huge. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) F

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TITIRANGI, 20 York Road Ready to fall in love?

Have you been dreaming of a true kiwi lifestyle? Tucked away from the road in an idyllic cul-de-sac setting, surrounded by native trees and birdlife, this quintessential Titirangi, cedar home will capture your heart.

Zoned for highly sought, Woodlands Park School and sitting on a substantial section, this two level, residence is perfect for a young family. You will all love being part of the vibrant Titirangi community. The village is just a 5 minute drive or bus ride down the road, where you will find everything you need – markets, restaurants, all essential services, the famous Lopdell Precinct Arts Centre and Deco Café.

My vendor has loved living here, but with a down-size in order my instructions are clear – this home must be sold.

Now is the time to realise your dream.

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Floor: 150 sq m (approx) | Land: 822 sq m (more or less)

AUCTION: 1:30 p.m. Saturday 4 March 2017 On-site at 20 York Road, Titirangi (unless sold prior) VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/BSA10719

Charlotte Kofoed M +64 21 241 9394 charlotte.kofoed@sothebysrealty.com nzsothebysrealty.com

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated.

Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Tweed Tweed are celebrating the release of High-Brow Blues with a bunch of shows around Auckland.

Every now and again I see a band and I just know immediately that they are going to make something magical. Four years ago I saw a group called Tweed play a small house concert and since then I have hosted numerous shows with them, performed alongside them and watched as they created amazing music. It was exciting news to be informed that Tweed’s debut album, High-Brow Blues, is to be released on 10 February.

Forming in early 2012, Tweed features Nancy Howie on guitar, Steff Werman on mandolin and Devin Ashton on percussion, with all three on vocal duties. Having released their debut EP, Buzzwords, in 2013 they’ve been working on this first album for a few years, performing widely around folk clubs and venues in Auckland, including opening the Auckland Folk Festival in 2016. Also in 2013, they were commissioned to write, arrange and perform the score for Don’t Blink Theatre Company’s production of Vinegar Tom. High-Brow Blues starts with a beautiful introduction called ‘Prologue’ with a horn delicately welcoming you, over the top of the trademark acoustic guitar and mandolin sound you will come to find familiar. We quickly find ourselves right into the perfect harmonies and complicated rhythms that the band are brilliant at, in ‘Fading’.

Tweed has been honing these poly-rhythms and complex vocal harmonies for years, to create a unique sound that at times can remind you of the harmonies of Crosby, Stills & Nash, Joni Mitchell and the Beach Boys. Their cover of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘The Chain’ was always a highlight of their live performances, surrounded by other tastefully selected covers including Cat Stevens. As a trio, performing without bass or a full drum kit, there could be a concern that they’d be unable to reach the full sound needed to really match some of these bands they are influenced by, however this concern is unfounded, especially in songs like ‘Almost in Mexico’ where the chorus reaches astounding heights.

‘Shifting’ is the highlight of the album. It begins with a delicate entry of intricate guitar work and mandolin melodies, and those perfect Tweed harmonies. The song builds and grows, shifting as its name would suggest, with diverse percussion, bass and strings really bringing the song to a massive climax. Just as you think you’ve got the song worked out, it takes another turn, with all three members singing moving vocal lines before the song drops off and ends with an outro that almost feels like the sunshine after a stormy night.

With some guest cello from Fiona Rouse, the album was recorded in its entirety at Roundhead Studios, mixed by Jordan Stone. The album closes with the cheerful, upbeat and bouncy, ‘Many People’, leaving you with the quintessential Tweed sound of three-part harmony and cajon infused final beats.

Tweed are celebrating the release of High-Brow Blues with a bunch of shows around Auckland in February. The release show is on Friday 10 February at The Paddington in Parnell, and then they also have shows on Wednesday 15 at Golden Dawn and Thursday 16 at Portland Public House in Kingsland. Get along to one of them, buy the album PN and check out what has always impressed me! (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F www.tweed-nz.com

BIRD OF THE MONTH Haast’s Eagle We’re continuing our series on extinct New Zealand birds with the Haast’s eagle, or giant eagle.

This was the largest bird species known to exist, and was the top predator in New Zealand’s prehistoric environment. Weighing in at potentially close to 10kg and with a wingspan of up to 3m it had claws and feet as large as that of a tiger, and legs and a bill that rival the giant vultures that still exist today.

All evidence suggests that the Haast’s eagle was a moa-hunting machine and could take on the adult South Island giant moa which could reach up to 3.6m tall and weigh in at over 200kg. Many skeletal remains of moa and the eagle have been found that suggest the eagle would dive on moa prey from above - possibly from tree perches or rocky outcrops. It had an extremely powerful grip and its talons would have been able to grab and squash a moa, even the largest of them.

The Haast’s eagle is thought to have become extinct 500-600 years ago, at a similar time to the entiction of our moa species. The overhunting of moa by humans at the time is likely the main cause for the eagle's extinction. It would have survived through glacial periods and evolved over a relatively short period of time from a common ancestor to the Australian little eagle (if correct, this is an amazingly rapid evolutionary weight increase). The competition with humans for food, and the extinction of other species such as the South Island goose and large rails, meant that the Haast’s eagle was no longer the top predator in the ecosystem (to date it is the only known example of an eagle as a top predator). At a similar time to the loss of the moa, burning of the South Island forests would have also removed habitat for the other prey of the eagle.

Only located in the South Island and Stewart Island, it was found in alpine environments and some Maori oral tradition that speaks of the eagle refers to how it lived ‘in the mountains’. Some Haast’s eagle bones were have been found in middens which could mean they were hunted. This sounds like an exciting, challenging and scary task as the eagle could easily have taken and killed a human - which are much smaller than the giant moa it regularly preyed upon!

PN (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Welcome back - the summer of music is still going strong!

We’ve hit the hottest month of the year now, with the heat making school classrooms and offices unbearable, and the beach an elusive escape that you hope to get to on your weekends.

One way to get through the end of summer is to head out to some excellent gigs that are happening just around the corner. Let’s take a look at your options for the coming month or two.

First up we have the annual Demon Energy Rock the Park at Grey Lynn Park on Saturday 11 February. Every year The Rock put on a killer lineup for this free gig, featuring some of the best rock acts currently performing in New Zealand. This year we are treated to Devilskin, Kora, City of Souls and Bakers Eddy. Devilskin are hot off releasing their third album, Be Like The River, late last year, and supporting Disturbed at their Vector Arena show. Kora have been regarded as one of New Zealand’s most energetic and powerful live bands, and returned in 2016 with a new single after a long break. This summer, Kora are bringing their rock-reggae sound and look to be building up to a new release. Catch all of these acts from 2pm at Grey Lynn Park.

We’ve written about a couple of the following bands in the Ponsonby News, so this next parks gig should definitely appeal to some of you. The Myers Park Medley returns on Sunday 26 February with a ridiculous line up of funky, ‘get-you-moving’ and grooving bands. Sal Valentine & The Babyshakes, Esther Stephens & The Means, Kong Fooey, Hopetoun Brown, Blackbird Ensemble: Carnivale are all on the bill to wow you on your Sunday afternoon. Sal Valentine & The Babyshakes use the phrase ‘the AC/DC of jazz’ to describe themselves, and let’s be honest if you’ve seen them perform you will agree with that. A 10-piece ensemble, they dedicate themselves to getting you moving, dancing and singing along. Their debut album in 2013 was met with much applause from fans and critics and the follow up album is planned for the near future.

We spoke with Hopetoun Brown about their latest album at the end of 2016 and when they’re on the bill for a party you can be sure that the brass instruments will be ready to play blues and funk. They are returning from a successful summer tour of their album, Look So Good, and will be ready to play some hometown shows, especially in the suburb that has the streets where their name was taken from. It’s been a couple of years since we checked in with the Blackbird Ensemble - the exciting ensemble that strives to challenge your expectations of classical music. They perform in unique spaces, arrange phenomenal pieces with interesting instrumentation and are determined to present classical music to new listeners, in new ways. The rotating cast of musicians includes the most talented young classical musicians in Auckland and this latest creation, ‘Carnivale’, offers arrangements of contemporary artists like Joanna Newson, James Blake and Sufjan Stevens, for a six-piece band of strings and drums!

Finally, the last of the music in the parks we’re highlighting in the wider Ponsonby area is Demon Energy presents George in the Park. Returning again in 2017 after a very successful first gig last year, they have moved parks to offer more space for families, a beach nearby and more stalls and even a few rides. Coyle Park in Pt Chevalier is the new location, on Saturday 18 March from 2pm and will play host to Nice 'n' Urlich, Sola Rosa, Kings and Stack & Piece.

Of course there are countless gigs at all our favourite venues in Ponsonby all through February and March, so don’t forget to check them out. A quick list just in case you need a reminder - Golden Dawn, Grand Central, Cafe One2one, Freida Margolis and round the corner on K'Road - The Wine Cellar and Whammy Bar. (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F PN www.musicinparks.co.nz

Finn McLennan-Elliott has a Bachelor of Science Honours degree specialising in human geography at Auckland University. In his spare time, Finn plays clarinet and guitar in an orchestra and a folk music group. He is hosting ‘Folk at the Old Folks’ on the first Sunday of every month at the Auckland Old Folks Association Hall, an intimate afternoon concert of folk music.

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING @OREXART Joon-Hee Park - Carnival 9 February - 4 March

Early in 2015 Joon-Hee Park had a highly curious, but excitingly vivid dream. She was lost in a maze at dawn, trying to find a way in, not the way out. There was a giant silver circus tent on the far side of the maze; to quote from Alice in Wonderland, "Curiouser and curiouser! cried Alice."

Park’s current body of work, ‘Carnival’, stems from that curious dream. Her paintings are layered with reality and imagination; fairy tales, childhood memories, dreams, furry creatures, her collections of little toys, objects and old photographs, and everyday reality.

Images, such as the ice cream incident, Kevin, The Juggler the collecting of candies in her skirt scene, and the wire-walking octopus are based on childhood events.

My Little Friends

Park tries not to plan too much before beginning a painting, trying to be spontaneous and connected to her imagination. Sometimes she creates stories as she paints and the outcome can be quite surprising. If closely viewed, the paintings include some dark and/ or humorous twists here and there... some intentionally added happy accidents. She leaves interpretation to the viewer.

Please contact rex@orexart.co.nz for details. F PN OREXART, 15 Putiki Street, Arch Hill, T: 09 378 0588 rex@orexart.co.nz www.orexart.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE PLAYING @ THE HERALD THEATRE AOTEA CENTRE SPIRIT HOUSE 16 February - 5 March

Local Ponsonby resident Ben Crowder is back in the spotlight this month directing Carl Bland’s beautiful new play ‘Spirit House’. Auckland audiences have been wowed with the results of their ongoing collaborations: ‘Te Po’ was the sell-out hit of the 2016 Auckland Arts Festival and ‘360: Theatre of Collections’ won the 2014 Auckland Theatre Award for Excellence.

These two theatre geniuses have rallied together some of New Zealand leading actors and designers to bring the highly anticipated Spirit House to life at the Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre.

New Zealand icon of stage and screen Ian Mune returns to tread the boards alongside theatrical heavyweights Mia Blake (The Book of Everything, Angels in America) and Tim Carlsen (Tartuffe, Dirty Laundry) in this startling theatrical event.

Spirit House is a theatrical riddle that walks the line between fantasy and reality. It's a luminous and boldly imaginative vision which delves into the past and reaches into the future, capturing the beating heart of what it means to be an artist, a lover, a human.

Backed by the company’s trademark visual storytelling, expect bodies to emerge from water, cobras to haunt their victims, housecats to attack. It’s vivid, wild, entertaining, dramatic, beautiful, funny, provocative and sees these visionary artists yet again attempt to stage the impossible. Spirit House is the must see theatre event of the summer! Don’t miss out. F PN For tickets and more info visit: www.aucklandlive.co.nz/show/spirit-house

Concept artwork by Carl Bland The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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ARTS + CULTURE @ LAKEHOUSE ARTS

INITIATE[s] 2017 Exhibition, Until 26 February Recent graduates from tertiary art and design schools present works from their graduating portfolios in the Initiate[s] 2017 exhibition.

The term 1 art education programme starts in the week of 13 February and below is a taste of what there is on offer.

Drawing on a Large Scale, 13 February - 12 April, $220 A talented and collected artist in her own right, Han Nae Kim (BFA, MFA) is tutoring the ‘Drawing on a Large Scale’ class. This class is perfect for beginners or intermediate level adult students and convenient for anyone looking to do evening classes after work.

“Drawing is the fundamental framework for all visual art forms. It helps us to understand and respond to what we see and feel, and also generate ideas to bring creativity into our lives.

Although drawing can often be a small scale, intricate and intimate process, in this class you will embrace drawing on a large scale to push the boundaries of what we consider as drawing. Han Nae will teach different drawing methodologies and processes so you can translate your ideas into large-scale works. “ The popular kids' ceramic sculpture classes are running on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays this term. Kids will learn hand building and sculpting techniques from the professional tutor in classes tailored to each age group.

Ceramic Sculpture (all $200) 13 February - 3 April, 4pm to 5.30pm, ages 9-13 years 14 February - 4 April, 4pm to 5.30pm, ages 5-8 years 14 February - 4 April, 6.30pm to 8pm, ages 14-18 years 16 February - 6 April, 4pm to 5.30pm, ages 5-8 years LAKE HOUSE ARTS, 37 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, T: 09 486 4877, www.lakehousearts.org.nz

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SHOWING @ TOI ORA GALLERY KAMA 9 February - 3 March Opening: 9 February, 5pm - 7pm

Joshua Kama Szabo shows new paintings in amongst past favourites. New Zealand-born and the eldest of two brothers of Greek-Hungarian descent, Kama dedicates himself completely to painting working on alternative designs and painterly responses.

He enjoys giving thought to fashion art, Chinese comics, rap music and long walks. We welcome you to the opening and to meet the artist. F PN Open Monday to Friday, 9am - 4pm

ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING @ WHITESPACE

Lianne Edwards: Still (Marine) Life in support of Seacleaners.com 14 February - 12 March What happens when you introduce two talented and intelligent individuals, both with a huge enthusiasm for saving the planet, in particular our oceans and the life within? The outcome is an amazing collaboration between Nelson-based artist and marine biologist; Lianne Edwards and Captain Hayden Smith, founder of Seacleaners.

Together they hope to raise awareness of the plight of the marine life in our beautiful beaches with a stunning exhibition of artwork made by Lianne using detritus collected from the ocean and woven into plankton nets.

Born in Auckland, now living and working in Nelson, Lianne Edwards artwork reflects her fascination with the natural world and the place of humans within it. Growing up with a love of nature and drawing, she completed a degree and post-graduate diploma in the natural sciences. She then worked in coastal and marine conservation. Edwards was runner up in the Wallace Awards 2007 gaining a residency at the Vermont Studio Centre, in the United States and taking out the People's Choice Award. Her work may be found in both private and public collections in New Zealand.

Joshua Kama Szabo - â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Untitledâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Acrylic on paper

Captain Hayden Smith Founder is the commercial marine litter collection concept in Auckland City 2002, and visionary for the Sea Cleaners plan of work. He was the 2011 Local Hero Medallist for the New Zealander of the Year awards. Hayden has extensive marine litter collection knowledge from co-ordinating the removal over 3.7 million litres of rubbish from the Waitemata Harbour and surrounding waters. F PN WHITESPACE, 12 Crummer Road, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz

One of a series of different coloured works using this self-designed stencil.

Acrylic on paper TOI ORA GALLERY, 6 Putiki Street, T: 09 360 4171, info@toiora.org.nz www.toiora.org.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE FESTIVAL SEASON @ GARNET STATION PRIDE Memorable Movies: Bound (1996), 11 February, 8pm, free Preceded by a surprise Drag King, plus erotica read by Verity George.

Beautiful Thing (1996), 18 February, 8pm, free Preceded by 93%, a coming out monologue performed by Hamish Annan.

Share the Love, 14 February, 6.30-10pm Celebrate with drinks and dinner as Gourmet Joy takes over cocktail creations served in the lane lit up with love letters.

Rock & Speir, 17 February, 8pm and 21 February, 7.30pm, $20/$15 The irreverent comedy duo Cissy Rock and Anne Speir are back with a brand new characterful comedy show, joined by local singer Karen Kahurangi, making a rare appearance.

and is in New Zealand staying with cousins. Her stand up explores relations from all types from a small island's inhabitant's perspective.

De Sade, 28 February - 4 March, 8.30pm, $25/$20 From Alexander Sparrow, Australasia's number one Trump impersonator is a completely different comedy! Set in his prison cell at The Bastille Fortress, The Marquis de Sade is allowed guests for the first time in a decade. It is filled with stories, action and interaction, with nudity and adult themes. F PN For more information go to www.garnetstation.com For all bookings email: garnetstation@gmail.com or call T: 09 360 3397 GARNET STATION TINY THEATRE, 85 Garnet Road, Westmere

Punch & Munch, 19 February, 4-7pm, free A relaxed social occasion, for 16 to 24-year-olds, led by experienced Rainbow Youth facilitator, Laura Olsen.

FRINGE What We Talk About, 23-25 February, 7pm, $15/$10 Each night Eamonn Marra and Alice May Connolly get four guests to tell of their greatest obsession. Recorded, released as a podcast and guaranteed to be captivating storytelling.

Marjolein Robertson: Relations, 23-25 February, 8.30pm, $20/$15 Fresh from the Edinburgh Fringe, this Shetland comedian lives with her extended family

STUDIO ART SUPPLIES: THE ART MATERIAL SPECIALISTS We live in a wonderfully visual culture, and more people than ever are being creative, in modest ways and grand.

Studio Art Supplies has made making art more accessible since 1974. Their store manager, Michael Mitchell, is proud of the SAS team - between them there is no material problem too difficult or strange that they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tackle. They have the time and the expertise to work with artists, illustrators and all creative people on any project no matter how large or small.

The large store is jam-packed with a huge variety of art materials including extensive brush, paint and paper sections, as well as their amazing Custom Stretched Canvas department...

With their Custom Stretched Canvas, you can choose the exact size you require (from 100mm - 4000mm), the fabric (cotton, linen or jute), the surface - fine, medium or rough, and the format (portrait or landscape), which determines where the folds are placed. Dean Tercel is their chief canvas craftsman, a perfectionist who has turned out more than 25,000 tailor-made canvases - each one special!

The staff is actively involved in the arts community, through exhibitions, teaching and making sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looked after in store. Evan Woodruffe, Dean Tercel, Wendelien Bakker, and Patrick Lundberg work with Michael to make Studio Art Supplies a creative and engaging place that welcomes all levels of artist. For a real fix of arty goodness, visit...

STUDIO ART SUPPLIES, 35 Crummer Road, T: 09 360 1238, E: info@studioart.co.nz www.facebook.com/willpaynt

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FIGHTING THE POWER NEVER TASTED SO SWEET ARTSHUB.COM

ARTS + CULTURE PLAYING @ASB THEATRE, AOTEA CENTRE Hot Brown Honey 14-18 February

Audiences are invited to sit amongst the action at Hot Brown Honey, on the ASB Theatre stage in cabaret seating where six, sexy, sassy, stylish women will boldly shatter preconceptions in an explosion of colour, culture and controversy.

THE SCOTSMAN

Opening on Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect night out for the girls or couples complete with a bar on stage and tasty themed cocktails, and a different New Zealand female DJ each night adding to the pre and post show party vibe.

RIP IT UP

Hot Brown Honey comes to the ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre as part of the Auckland Pride Festival. This highly entertaining, comedic cabaret and burlesque-style show incorporates circus, dance, poetry, striptease and comedy with a generous helping of hip hop. Hot Brown Honey is set in a dazzling beehive with lighting, music and costume to rival Beyoncé at Madison Square Garden.

Hot Brown Honey comes to Auckland on the back of sell-out seasons across Australia including Sydney Opera House, and after a hit season in Edinburgh Fringe. F PN For bookings call, T: 0800 111 999 or go to www.aucklandlive.co.nz

A BR BRIEFS FACTORY PRODUCTION

14 – 18 FEB ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre aucklandlive.co.nz or 0800 111 999

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OUT + ABOUT

Heitor Lima and Adam

Susan Howard

Avis Nelson, Sabine, Mikayla, Denise, Alex & Tracey

David Henderson, Eamon and Heitor Lima

A good turnout at the VIP Festive Event

photography: Everall Deans

Melissa Fergusson and Viv Rosenberg

HOUSEHOLD LINENS, PONSONBY VIP FESTIVE EVENT - THURSDAY 1 DECEMBER

FRANKLIN ROAD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Local resident Dave Dobbin turned on the lights on 1 December 2016

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Art DEMONSTRATIONS We would love for you to join us for a wine and to see our talented artists at work!

Everyone is welcome.

Gary Brooks

Vjekoslav Nemesh

Art Demo #1 Thurs 9 Feb 2017 5pm Vjekoslav Nemesh Gary Brooks

Kirsty Black

Jo Dalgety

Jo Dalgety Keron Smith Kirsty Black

Keron Smith

Art Demo #2 Thurs 16 Mar 2017 5pm

This will give the public the opportunity to observe the processes behind the diverse range of art practices supported by the gallery, and experience a deeper level of engagement with the artistic process in an ‘open studio’ setting. The demonstration aims to bridge the sometimes mystifying gap between the finished artwork, and the ideas and techniques that led to its creation. Our artists welcome any questions you might have for them!

AUCKLAND 30 to 32 Victoria Park Market 210 Victoria Street West Auckland Central | 09 354 4745 info@thelittlegallery.co.nz www.thelittlegallery.co.nz

HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS

What your stars hold for February ♒ Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February

♌

You’re feeling a bit anxious this month and to compensate you are surrounding yourself with friends and family as much as you can. You’re lucky to have friends who are there when you need them, treat them well.

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August You might feel that someone is carefully trying to rattle you this month or wind you up about really nothing at all. Don’t rise to the bait, just concentrate on the path you’re currently walking.

♓

♍ Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September

Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March Your opinions will get you in a few uncomfortable situations this month so you might want to rein it in a little. Let people know how you feel but you can be more tactful.

♈ Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April

Your enthusiasm is infectious but not everyone has the same energy levels as you do. Try and dial it down a bit and you will find that you’re a lot more inspiring than you thought.

♉ Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May

You’re struggling to keep secrets this month and you might find you have already said something that’s too late to take back. You may have to make a stand and deal with the fallout.

♊

Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June You don’t have to say yes to everything that comes your way, because at some point you are going to start having problems. Try sharing the load a little and see what happens.

♋

Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July Don’t get frustrated because things seem to be taking longer than necessary and plans are not going the way you would like. Manage time better and you’ll be more productive.

Your self doubt is always apparent and it’s about time you showed your friends and co -workers what you are really made of. You could almost reinvent yourself if you really wanted to.

♎ Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October

You are completely at a loss as to why you feel that everyone is being really critical.

People are being brutally honest and it’s beginning to have an effect. The feedback you get can make or break you and it’s up to you to decide which way to go.

♏ Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November

You don’t have the patience anymore for anyone who can’t keep up with your output and any one who questions your motives is usually left behind or dropped. You need to communicate what’s behind your motivation for people to understand.

♐

Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December Don’t take things personally as they are not directed at you, you are just exceptionally sensitive this month. You can’t change the past but you can definitely alter your future.

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

You might want to rein in your spending or it could be that you need to stop being so generous with your emotions especially when you don’t get anything in return from those who you think would give back.

PONSONBY NEWS OUTLETS FREEMANS BAY

NEWMARKET

Ecostore, 1 Scotland Street Glengarry, Corner Sale and Wellesley Streets Kellands Real Estate, 4 Drake Street New World, Victoria Park

Taylor Boutique, 1 Teed Street

GREY LYNN Barfoot & Thompson, 533 Great North Road Barkley Manor, 400 - 402 Great North Road Grey Lynn Community Centre, 520 Richmond Road Grey Lynn Community Library, 474 Great North Road Raw Essentials, 401B Richmond Road Ripe, 172 Richmond Road Tapac, 100 Motions Road Vetcare, 408 Great North Road

NORTH SHORE Rug Direct, Wairau Park Dawson’s Furniture, Mairangi Bay

PARNELL Jane Daniels, 2 Birdwood Crescent Parnell Community Centre, 545 Parnell Road

PONSONBY

Atomic, 420c New North Road

Askew, 2b Jervois Road Bayleys, 305 Ponsonby Road Countdown, 7 Williamson Avenue Harcourts, 89 Ponsonby Road Leys Institute, 20 St Mary’s Road The Longroom, 114 Ponsonby Road Mag Nation, 123 Ponsonby Road Paper Plus, 332 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Community Centre, 20 Ponsonby Terrace Servilles, Corner Jervois & Ponsonby Road Studio One, 1 Ponsonby Road Whitespace, 12 Crummer Road

MT EDEN

WESTMERE

Citta Outlet Store, Corner Enfield & Normanby Road Sabato, 57 Normanby Road Studio Italia, 25 Nugent Street

Glengarry, 164 Garnet Road

HERNE BAY Herne Bay Post & Stationers, 240 Jervois Road Five Loaves, 206 Jervois Road Icing on the Cake, 188 Jervois Road Momentum, 182 Jervois Road

KINGSLAND

114 PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

Ponsonby News is published on the first Friday of each month excluding January.

Copies go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets.

The issue is also published on our website www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE DEADLINE--20TH 20THOF OFTHE THEMONTH MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ February 2017

115

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