PONSONBY NEWS - JULY '23

CLAYTON & MELANIE-JANE SMITH

THE POI ROOM MERGES GALLERY & OPERATIONS

ON PONSONBY ROAD - p75

008 LETTERS & EMAILS

009 FROM THE EDITOR

010 DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

016 MIKE LEE: AUCKLAND COUNCILLOR

017 PUNEET OF PONSONBY

019 MELISSA LEE: NATIONAL LIST MP

026 GAEL BALDOCK

027 LISA PRAGER

028 FROM THE MAYOR WAYNE BROWN

029 PONSONBY PARK

032 MAHESH MURALIDHAR: NATIONAL CANDIDATE

034 HELEN WHITE: LABOUR LIST MP

039 CHLÖE SWARBRICK: MP AUCKLAND CENTRAL

046 EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

048 FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

050 WINETOPIA

056 ROSS THORBY: WHAT COULD GO WRONG?

057 FASHION & STYLE

058 HELENE RAVLICH: A WINTER OF BEAUTY

064 FUTURE GENERATION

066 PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

068 HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

074 ARTS & CULTURE

075 COVER STORY: THE POI ROOM

080 THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Margot Moller, The Poi Room

PONSONBY NEWS is published monthly, excluding January by: ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED, P.O. BOX 47-282

Ponsonby, Auckland 1144, T: 09 378 8553, www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS is printed on paper sourced from sustainable, well managed forests and manufactured under the environmental management system ISO 14001.

OUT & ABOUT - 16 JUNE - THE POI ROOM, PONSONBY - P75

Having now outgrown their MacKelvie Street space, a recent move to larger premises at 37 Ponsonby Road enabled an amalgamation of The Poi Room Gallery, offices and warehouse into one beautiful central hub. Pictured at the opening Vicky & Mark Taylor, The Shelter

Editor/Publisher: MARTIN LEACH M: 021 771 147 martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Distribution Manager: JAY PLATT M: 021 771 146 jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Advertising Sales: JO BARRETT

M: 021 324 510 joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz

Advertising Sales/Ad Designer: MELISSA PAYNTER

M: 027 938 4111 melissapaynter@me.com

Operations Manager: GWYNNE DAVENPORT

M: 021 150 4095 gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Fashion & Beauty Editor: HELENE RAVLICH

M: 021 767 133 helene@mshelene.com

Contributing Music Editor: FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

M: 021 134 4101 finn.huia@gmail.com

Graphic Designer: ARNA MARTIN

M: 021 354 984 arna@cocodesign.co.nz

Annual Subscriptions: Within New Zealand $49. By cheque or credit card in NZ$. Please note: we do not hold back issues of Ponsonby News. Our archive is all online as pdfs. Please visit www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechaal, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies and manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.

photography: Martin Leach

- Gusto Italiano -

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

Your regular donation will help connect more school children with nature, empower people all over Auckland with sustainable living choices and develop and maintain a therapeutic garden. Join now at: www.kelmarnagardens.nz/donate

photography: Alex McVinnie

LOVING, LIVING & SELLING

BLAIR HADDOW

Blair has established a proven track record of achieving standout results, in any market conditions.

Extensive product knowledge plus high-end negotiation skills mean Blair is an excellent choice if you are thinking of buying or selling.

In excess of $600M sales in Greater Ponsonby Top 5% Bayleys Agents Nationwide 2010-2023

Blair Haddow

021 544 555 blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/blair-haddow

Ellerslie 3A Umere Crescent For Sale

Westmere 5 Rawene Avenue For Sale

Ponsonby 18 Bayfield Road For Sale

Freemans Bay 1005/8 Hereford Street For Sale

Herne Bay 233 Jervois Road For Sale

Glen Innes 18B Apirana Avenue For Sale

Auckland Central 4703/10 Commerce Street For Sale

Freemans Bay 11D/8 Howe Street For Sale

THE EREBUS MEMORIAL WORKING GROUP

The Erebus Memorial Working Group wants to find a solution for the current proposal that is acceptable to the families and the community. A site that has its own meaning. A site that can develop its own meaning and significance over time, rather than a site which already has a fixed meaning, symbolism or knowing significance.

Positive points for relocating to Western Springs Precinct or one of a range of opportunities for relocating:

The story you want to leave behind.

Opportunities for families to tell their loved ones’ stories.

The Ice Phase Recovery Team to tell their stories.

· And the many school children that will visit the National Erebus Memorial Park learning about the Erebus story. This will live on 100 years from now after we are all gone. Yes, in perpetuity.

Step Back. Rethink. Regroup

We need to move forward and find a solution that is acceptable to all parties. A location that is acceptable to the families, the local and wider communities.

Ka ea tetahi raru ma te rapu tonu i nga rongoa (A problem is solved by continuing to find solutions.)

Covid has consolidated the importance of community and what our community represents.

Belonging. Unity. Hold together.

Affirmation on belonging in the community.

Reaffirming the critical value of life.

What has held this kaupapa together?

“Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

“Every time we turn our heads the other way when we see the law flouted, when we tolerate what we know to be wrong, when we close our eyes and ears to the corrupt because we are too busy or too frightened, when we fail to speak up and speak out, we strike a blow against freedom, decency and justice.” Robert

F. Kennedy

We welcome your thoughts.

Visit our website www.emp.org.nz

Visit our facebook: Erebus Memorial Park

Erebus Memorial Park Working Group

FREEDOM TO SPEAK

A great magazine and a great cause to promote – free speech!

With a Speakers' Corner in any park, people may be encouraged to speak openly and express opinions directly rather than hide behind tortuous, incomprehensible 'pass-agg' speak. Tautology at its worst.

So, please pursue the issue further and bring it to a park near you – even Western Park to enliven and enlighten Sundays. Go for it.

Peter Woodcock, Onehunga

EREBUS MEMORIAL

It's a shame the resisters have finally had their way and cancelled the plans for an Erebus Memorial at Dove Meyer Robinson Park in Parnell.

Still, I suppose those opposed will be happy with the outcome. I visited the site several times and thought it was an inspired choice, along with the existing memorial in that park. It provided a space that invited reflection and a connection to the skies of Aotearoa.

Contrary to what Annie Coney and Jo Malcolm claim, there was no proposal to limit access to the park. Perhaps now the alternative site of Coxs Bay could be reconsidered.

Tony O'Brien, Grey Lynn

RATES SPENT ON TRACK ONLY FOR PRIVILEGED FEW

I am so disappointed with the Western Springs Forest Loop Track. It is so steep that it can only be accessed by a privileged few. I have walked it nearly every day for three weeks as the steep stairs are good for a cardiovascular workout. I have only seen one other person using it in that time.

This track cost Waitematā Local Board an additional $158,000 (if my memory serves me well) on top of the $2,000,000 out of our rates for the destruction of a 100-year-old forest along with 15,000 natives and a significant ecological area.

I would have chosen the amazing regenerating native forest under those gentle giant pines, full of bird song and to have spent this money on adding specimen natives, over this exercise track any day.

Considering it was touted as wheelchair accessible in the 'Have Your Say' is incredibly deceptive.

Linda Hill (pensioner who sat on the digger to save this forest)

HELP US SAVE THE DOWNTOWN CARPARK BUILDING

Over a year ago, someone at council mentioned that the Downtown Carpark was sold.

I was quite distressed, as I use it all the time. I had not heard anything about it. I refused to believe this was happening, due to reasons on my petition. I found an article online about it. I knew this was a very wrong decision as we don’t yet have an integrated reliable, regular transport system in Auckland and I felt I had to do something about it. I had signed petitions before and so decided to start my own.

It has been a lot harder than expected to get momentum after I had already reached out to my own contacts and local community groups. I was about to give up and present it to the mayor and councillor at 881 signatures, as I was spent and ran out of time and energy for it.

In a last ditch effort, I sent it out to all my gmail contacts. Then someone who knew about social media started sharing it. It then snowballed. I was so grateful. It is going viral and we got 1200 signatures in a week. That someone was Gael Baldock who wrote about this 'strategic asset' in May Ponsonby News. Her being inspired to share my petition motivated me to put fliers on cars parked there. We now have over 5000 signatures. We could save this carpark as a 'mode change hub' as she said.

Please sign www.change.org/p/stop-the-saledemolishing-of-downtown-carpark

Shery Gartner

Locals with good memories will remember CYCO, which was once located right next to Prego. This store is now located in New North Road and we asked Darren Murray to tell us some of the history of the business.

As he explained, “This is CYCO’s 30th year and we are very proud to still be around.”

International presenters are back this year at Winetopia – New Zealand’s most comprehensive wine celebration – with chef and TV personality Colin Fassnidge joining the line-up in Auckland (21 – 22 July). They join a strong local cast of educators and entertainers that includes comedian and TV presenter Ben Hurley hosting the Main Stage, Masters of Wine Bob Campbell and Stephen Wong, well-loved wine personalities Candice Chow, Mermaid Mary and Joelle Thomson.

Helene Ravlich tells us for many winter is a season of cocooning, of looking inwards and listening to what your body needs after what has felt like a rollercoaster start to the year. It’s also the perfect time to take a few extra moments for yourself, and the neighbourhood has more than a few

incredible beauty and wellness destinations in which to commit to exactly that.

A new motorway has recently opened motorway from Pūhoi to Warkworth which has transformed the accessibility to Matakana Village and its famous Farmers Market. Discover a world-class village brimming with small-town charm and a heartwarming shopping experience that will leave you inspired. As if you needed any more reasons to visit The 8th Brick Bay Folly architectural design project is complete and open to visitors. We know they’d love to see you.

A fixture for many years in the eclectic streets around The Rialto in Newmarket, The Poi Room has now now outgrown its MacKelvie Street space. It has recently relocated to larger premises at 37 Ponsonby Road.

(JAY PLATT & MARTIN LEACH)  PN

There are certain people in life who shape who you are. Special people who were always there to give you advice, support, comfort and love. When the time comes to bid them farewell, make sure to farewell them properly. Talk to us we’ll help you do exactly that.

Jay Platt and Martin Leach

She always loved some glamour. We’ll help you say goodbye in style.

DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH GINA LOHENI

While out walking, I came across this shop with an explosion of colours on display in their window. The shop is MENA at 266 Great North Road in Grey Lynn.

I asked Gina Loheni to tell us about her store?

MENA is a family owned fashion brand that celebrates the Pacific. We started this business in 2002 and celebrated 20 years last year. We have men’s fashion as well as women's.

Where did you get your interest in dress designing and use of colour from?

From our mother, Mena, whom our label is named after. A very talented seamstress, she started making clothes from the age of nine. She worked from home sewing for many of New Zealand's top fashion labels from the 70s to the 90s. Growing up, my sisters and I were always designing our own dresses that she would whip up for us. Years later we saw the opportunity to create a business that would satisfy our passion for contemporary, forward fashion and that also reflected our love of our Polynesian heritage.

Your fashions are collections of vibrant colours and shades, how much does colour influence the fashion look? Our colourful brand is a reflection of the vibrant Pacific. We design all our prints from tropical florals to traditional elei prints.

What do you like best about Ponsonby?

All the cafes, bars and restaurants.

What was your childhood like?

It was great. Growing up as a kid in the eighties, life was so much simpler, but fun without all the bells and whistles that our kids now have.

Who do you consider to be the most annoying celebrity?

Any celebrity that denies having plastic surgery when it’s very obvious.

What would be your dream holiday?

Anywhere warm…The Maldives would be nice.

What is on your bucket list?

Take a year off to travel.

The most Kiwi thing about you?

My accent and my passport.

What other job would you like?

Shoe designer – I like shoes!

What do you love most about your age? Self acceptance.

What is something you really disapprove of? Bullying.

You biggest disappointment?

Closing our store in Samoa five years ago as we eventually all moved back to Auckland.

What really motivates you? My children.

Give your teenaged self some advice?

Have faith in your abilities, you are capable of much more than you think.

Which item of clothing can't you live without?

My MENA kimono. You can wear it over anything, just throw on and you’re ready to go.

Is there a movie that has inspired you?

‘The Pursuit of Happiness’ which is based on a true story of determination and never giving up.

Tell us something very few people know about you? When I was 21, I was the IT Manager for an engineering firm.

Who is your favourite hero of fiction?

Wonder Woman because she's a woman. There weren't many female superheroes when I was growing up.

Which talent would you most like to have?

A great singing voice.

What cliché do you most hate? Not a fan of the term ‘Influencer’.

What gizmo can you simply not live without? My phone – I do use it a lot for work.

What would be your greatest weakness? A good chocolate brownie.

Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person? Usually a hug unless it’s someone I’ve met for the first time.

What is your comfort food?

My mum's chop suey with fa’alifu talo (taro cooked in coconut cream).

Do you like an aisle or window seat on a plane? Always an aisle seat.

How do you chill out? Reading and walking.

Your most treasured possession? Photos. They help me to remember the good times I might otherwise forget!

If they were to make a movie about your life, who would you like to play you? Nia Long.

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

The wealthy to pay their fair share of tax. It's reported New Zealand's multi-millionaires pay a lower tax rate than supermarket cashiers. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM)  PN

www.menashop.com

Find your place

The myriad businesses operating throughout Auckland’s vibrant city fringe are just one of the things that make each area unique. We love working with our tenants to create positive, healthy workspaces, and watching their businesses flourish within the community. Character-filled spaces leasing now.

Retail and Office spaces available for lease now: PH 09 522 0039

IT’S A TEAM EFFORT... WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT OUR CONTRIBUTORS

CONNOR CRAWFORD

I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective. I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.

DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM

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

GAEL BALDOCK

We each follow our moral compass shaped by training. Mine is sculpting, architecture, sociology, anthropology and betterment of our shared world by community advocacy… and saving trees.

HELENE RAVLICH

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

KEN RING

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

LISA PRAGER

A life long advocate for community issues, I am passionate about protecting and enhancing our natural environment and built heritage.

LUCY KENNEDY

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

MIKE LEE

I am the councillor for Waitematā & Gulf. A former seafarer, former chair of the ARC, conservationist, PT advocate, and author. I have represented the Ponsonby area since 1992.

PHIL PARKER

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

PUNEET DHALL

I am an Aucklander of Indian origin, Punjabi and Sikh. I have a keen interest in food, wine and politics.

ROSS THORBY - QSM

I have had a wanderlust for travel ever since I was old enough to own a passport. Since I discovered cruising, I have become unstoppable.

STEPHEN PARSONS

I am currently undertaking a Master’s of Health Science at Auckland University, looking to undertake a PhD in Chinese Medicine, while still working full-time at The Health Clinic.

Lunch: Friday and Saturday Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday

23 Ponsonby Road T: 021 379 700 kolauckland.co.nz

Photography: Babiche Martens

Limn Gallery is excited to announce our upcoming show titled 'Monochome' taking place at 119 Ponsonby Road from the 15th to the 30th of July. Prepare to be captivated by a mesmerising display of original works where the power of black and white takes centre stage.

This extraordinary showcase unveils an eclectic collection of original works, all available for purchase, from some of the best urban artists from around the world. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of black and white, a timeless palette that effortlessly commands attention and provokes introspection.

Whether you are an avid art enthusiast, a seasoned collector, or simply a curious soul seeking inspiration, this exhibition promises to leave an indelible mark on your artistic sensibilities. Join us as we celebrate the global language of art, transcending cultures and continents, and revel in the awe-inspiring beauty of original black and white masterpieces.

MEET SOME OF THE ARTISTS:

MadC's graffiti-inspired style features vivid colours, dynamic calligraphy, and transparent layers that capture the energy of street art on a massive scale. Her work has been showcased in renowned publications like National Geographic, FAZ Magazine, Saatchi Magazine, GO, The Guardian, Der Spiegel, The Source, and GraffitiArt Magazine, among others.

HelioBray is an ever-evolving artist, continuously exploring his unique form of artistic expression. With a natural inclination towards alchemy and a deep empathy, he embodies the fusion of technical mastery and emotional expression. Throughout the years, HelioBray has traversed various stages and styles within the realm of graffiti, skillfully blending different techniques along the way.

ASKEW ONE's art evolves through absorbing influences, pushing boundaries, and exploring new ideas. His post-graffiti practice encompasses portraiture, text, abstraction, and urban investigations. He seamlessly shifts between screens, streets, and studios, constantly balancing aesthetics and concepts.

Ash Hayner, also known as Wolfdog, is an Atlanta-based artist who began his career as a graphic designer. He has developed a minimalist visual language, blending expressionism with technological layering. Hayner's work spans design, fine art, and murals, earning recognition in galleries and festivals worldwide.

Nerone pushes the boundaries of street art with his unique blend of floral and abstract styles. His captivating works radiate vibrant colours and dynamic motion, delivering a positive message. Featured in global events and commissioned by international companies, Nerone's art spreads joy across cities worldwide.

RAUL paints with instinctive speed and vibrant colours. His art materialises emotions, capturing faces encountered during travels, streets explored, and unfiltered thoughts. His work evokes intense sensations and reflects the boundless possibilities that arise from human connections.

DOES expands his artistic exploration by integrating graffiti artefacts into paintings, plaster sculptures and collage works. He treats graffiti as an archive, physically extracting samples from spray-painted walls. This contemporary urban archaeology showcases his roots and the impact of graffiti culture, employing scientific tools to emphasise his story.

Markus Genesius continually evolves his writing style, blending tradition with innovation. He refines established forms and explores new possibilities, challenging the observer with complex compositions and dynamic structures. His art exudes a unique aesthetic, often eliciting a "WOW!" reaction upon first encounter, making it a personal signature of his work.

Andrew J. Steel is a New Zealand contemporary artist who focuses on the art of storytelling. "An artist's role is to live a remarkable life and report back on it in their work. I make art to learn more about people & the world, then retell these stories in my work to offer perspective & peace - both for myself and for others seeking comfort through the arts."

HELIOBRAY PORTUGAL

NERONE FRANCE

MARKUS GENESIUS GERMANY

ASKEW ONE NEW ZEALAND

RAUL ITALY

ANDREW J. STEEL NEW ZEALAND

MIKE LEE: THE AIRPORT DEBATE AND WHY SELLING ROBS AUCKLAND’S FUTURE GENERATIONS

Edmund Burke once described society as a “contract between three interested parties, the living, the dead and the unborn.”

I was reminded of this during the protracted debate on the sale of Auckland Council’s airport shares. Auckland International Airport was built in the early 1960s by Auckland local authorities and the government. It was opened in January 1966 by then Prime Minister Keith Holyoake amidst much fanfare and Auckland civic pride. Managed by the Auckland Regional Authority, it quickly became the busiest airport in the country and soon Oceania.

As part of the Rogernomics' reforms of the 1980s, the airport was corporatised, the shares split between the government and Auckland local bodies. Soon after, Papakura District sold its shares to the government thereby giving it majority ownership. In 1998 the Shipley government used this to privatise its shares. North Shore City soon followed. In 2002, Mayor John Banks’ first budget proposed to sell all Auckland City’s shares but in the face of widespread opposition, eventually sold half. In response, Manukau City under Sir Barry Curtis bought up more shares to block a takeover by a foreign interest. The remaining shares, along with the Ports of Auckland, were gifted to the new ‘Super City’ in 2010.

This was the situation when, soon after his election, Mayor Wayne Brown announced his intention to sell all the shares. In a case of ‘history repeats’, last month, just as in 2002, the council voted to sell just under half its remaining portfolio.

I, along with Councillors Fuli, Filipaiana, Dalton, Bartley, Leoni, Walker and Watson argued long and hard to retain all the shares. This for three reasons:

No public mandate. Pro-sale mayor and councillors gave no indication to voters of their intention to privatise assets during the recent elections. For my part, opposition to selling airport shares, along with the port and the downtown carpark was an explicit commitment in my election manifesto. Also, the majority of local boards opposed the sale. Finally, the largest proportion of public responses to the council’s consultation questionnaire was for ‘no sale’. (And on the subject of election commitments, I and my seven colleagues moved unsuccessfully for a residential rates’ increase of 6.7%, 1% lower than that proposed by the mayor, but with $140m of additional debt as opposed to the mayor’s $80m — (now $105m.) Regarding election promises, Labour/Green voters will be disappointed at some of their councillors who betrayed election promises to oppose selling public assets.

Legally questionable process. Airport shares are deemed a strategic asset and therefore the council was required under the Local Government Act to adopt a ‘special consultative procedure’ before selling them. Along with other process failings, the council overlooked resolving to do this. Under the Act, council is also required to provide a ‘fair representation’ of key issues in its consultation ‘summary of information’. The loaded questions in council’s consultation material were anything but ‘fair’. Retaining the shares was always conflated with higher rates increases and higher debt, but the financial benefits of retention, including this year’s and future dividends, were never mentioned. Given the bias and the push-polling tactics of the council, it’s all the more remarkable that the largest portion of Aucklanders voted to keep all the shares.

Short-sighted financial decision. Not mentioned in council publicity was that since 2010, despite the Covid years, the value of airport shares has increased by some 360%, benefiting Auckland Council by some $1.7b, comprising $344m in dividends and some $1.4b in capital gains. I reject the argument constantly pushed by council finance bureaucrats that holding airport shares ‘costs’ the council interest, any more than keeping the Town Hall or our parks. It is revealing that at the start of the ‘Super City’, council debt was $3b, now it’s closer to $12b and that has absolutely nothing to do with airport shares but much to do with profligacy and inept financial management.

Had the legacy councils retained all their original shares, Auckland ratepayers this year could have expected $117m in dividends instead of $42b. Now, because of the partsale decision, this will be reduced to $16m. That being said, managing to hold on to most of the council’s shares (11% of the total) in the face of months of intense pressure was something of victory for Auckland public opinion and the tenacity of those councillors who refused to sell out. In the end the mayor was astute enough to compromise on the share sale and to withdraw his unpopular cuts, but I suspect total sale remains on his agenda as well as selling the Port company. In other words, to asset strip Auckland.

;To return to Edmund Burke and his social contract – the shares in Auckland International Airport, like the Ports of Auckland, and prized civic facilities were handed down to us by the visionary generation who built Auckland. They should be managed wisely and handed on to coming generations of Aucklanders. That’s the difference between inter-generational equity and inter-generational theft. (MIKE LEE)  PN

www.mikelee.co.nz

The same old battle. Auckland Regional Council March 1992. Newly elected Mike Lee rises to second the motion which stopped the privatisation of Ports of Auckland by one vote. At his left Bruce Jesson who proposed the motion.

PUNEET DHALL: PUNEET IN

BORDEAUX

AND

INQUIRIES

INTO THE GRAND UNIFYING THEORY OF LIFE

I have just finished a week in Bordeaux. I have visited over 40 châteaux and tasted several hundred wines of the latest vintage – 2022.

And now I find myself at the magnificent Château Smith Haut Lafite on the final evening attending the incredible Commanderie dinner ‘La fete du Bontemps’. The ‘Bontemps’ is the wooden bowl in which the egg whites are whisked for that most amazing part of the winemaking process, the fining of the wines. A truly fitting symbol to end this Bordeaux En Primeur week and celebrate the 2022 vintage.

The vintage is truly fascinating. If you had asked the Commanderie (The elite group of château owners) in May 2022 what they perceived of the vintage, their heads were hung low, predicting not only an apocalypse for 2022, but for future vintages also given that for many the 2022 climatic conditions were a harbinger of years to come. Widespread frosts in spring, a very large hail event not long after, and then three of the hottest months ever recorded in the region starting in May. Every château employed their own methods to combat these conditions.

Château Margaux reduced foliage in an attempt to reduce photosynthesis, Château Latour kept foliage to shield the berries from harsh sun. Soils, yeasts, crop cover – all were played with. Harvests were conducted earlier than normal with many picking their merlot in the last week of August. And then, as the wines began to vinify, it was clear that something remarkable was happening. The wines had a vibrancy, a freshness, an elegance and a restrained power, large mouth feel and incredible length.

The vintage was turning into a truly memorable one and a success. And in the end all the vignerons could say was that a large part of this was down to the vines and the terroir and their own ability to adapt to climatic conditions. The combination of limestone, gravel and clay soils allowed the roots to go deeper and find amazing flavour components. They were able to survive from the retained water in the soils and increased water-carrying capacity from deeper roots. In the end, the vines adapted. 2022 is their vintage.

And so we gathered on this night to celebrate, and the mood was high. The Commanderie were relieved and ecstatic. This vintage has given them a glimpse of a good future for Bordeaux. Large bottles of ‘99 Latour circled my table and my cup was always full. I laughed and danced with my new friends. I am quite sure that Xavier, the owner of Château Branaire Ducru, will be owing me a bottle of something special as The All Blacks defeat France in this year's World Cup. The Prince of Monaco is now on ‘speed dial’.

And to my whānau in New Zealand, it was Bordeaux that truly inspired me to enter the world of wine. For me, it is not about the final product, the sensory delight or even the social coming together, it is the fact that wine is a most natural product that springs unforced and most sustainably from our earth. The fact that the same vine can speak to us so differently from each terroir that it hails from. I believe that all of our food should be like this. We should have thousands of baked beans and thousands of cauliflower variants, every foodstuff uniquely speaking of its own terroir. Being an individual whilst simultaneously being part of a group – duality. I wonder if somewhere in that is the grand unifying theory of life.

(PUNEET

DHALL)  PN

@puneetofponsonby

SPEAKER’S CORNER - WESTERN PARK

William Greig’s suggestion of starting a Speakers’ Corner in Western Park, seconded by Rosco Thorby in the May and June editions is, in principle, a good idea. However, the antagonism towards Posie Parker in both of these letters is palpable, eg, “we should have let her spew her spiel” and “it’s our right to ignore it." So I would not like to be the woman that stands up and tries to speak only to be heckled down, or worse as happened in Albert Park on 25 March.

It seems that women's desire for safe spaces and to retain the word ‘women' for ourselves is considered outrageous by many. Sadly women’s needs are not recognised as valid but rather are interpreted wrongly as being the same as being antitrans. Surely there can be a place for two separate positions and needs?

Few people are as brave as Kellie-Jay Keen and, before she came, I had little awareness of the changes to policies and laws that have been proceeding with stealth and speed up and down the country. The trans-gender movement presents itself as promoting care for the vulnerable youth of a persecuted minority, but this is belied by the tremendous power and speed with which it has influenced the policies of hospitals, swimming pools, libraries, and trans sexuality is now being taught to small children in schools.

On 15 June 2023, a new Gender Self-Identification process made it easier to change the sex recorded on one’s birth certificate. This huge change to the long-accepted reality that sex is defined by biology has huge ramifications and tramples on the rights of more people than it protects, yet no protesting voices nor any critical thought is allowed. I think New Zealand needs to look ahead to the experience of Britain and Europe, who are now making new laws to protect single sex spaces and the rights of people who are of same sex attraction, because sex matters.

Linde Rose, linderose@hearttalk.nz

SPEAKER’S CORNER - YES PLEASE!

It is heartening to see the interest in a regular 'Speakers’ Corner' in Central Auckland. When I was a university student in the early 1970s, that was the rotunda at Albert Park where Tim Shadbolt led 'Jumping Sundays' and which we re-occupied after the council kicked us out.

In more recent times, we have held rallies in Khartoum Place, also known as Suffrage Square, where mainly women have spoken on an open microphone on International Women’s Day, 8 March, or Suffrage Day, 19 September, or when we were campaigning for fair pay for community workers and on other occasions for recognition of midwives.

I think what happened at Albert Park on 25 March highlights the importance of respecting citizens’ right to free speech and freedom to peaceful assembly, both of these being fundamental human rights that must be upheld in a democratic society.

We don’t always agree with the speakers, but if we don’t stand up for their right to speak, and for others to be able to hear them speak, then next time it could be our voices that are shouted down. The 'hecklers’ veto' that shuts down debate is not healthy for society.

Women are saying our rights are being impacted by trans rights and, rather than shout us down, surely we should encourage dialogue to understand the concerns women are raising, not just dismiss us? After all, 'women hold up half the sky".

Jill Ovens, National Secretary, Women’s Rights Party

WLB SQUANDERS RATEPAYERS' FUNDS

I walked out of the Waitematā Local Board public meeting in disgust on Tuesday 20 June when funding of $795.72 was granted to the Auckland Centre City Residents Group towards the cost of business cards, flyers, catering and social media advertising for the General Election 2023, ‘Meet the Candidates Event’.

When there’s a Budget with a shortfall that stretched Auckland Council to huge layoffs, selling the ‘family silver’ (airport shares) and threatened real community services, stressing everyone involved, why would these people think it was appropriate to spend Local Government’s ratepayer funds on a Central Government Election event?

FOR: Chair Genevieve Sage, Anahera Rawiri, Richard Northey, Alex Bonham

AGAINST: Sarah Trotman, Deputy Greg Moyle, Allan Matson

This was after the Chair called a fellow board member a liar. Not really the sort of conduct becoming of an elected official. People often blame others for their own shortfalls instead of holding a mirror to themselves.

Gael Baldock community advocate. GaelB@xtra.co.nz

HAVE YOU GAZED UPWARD WHEN YOU’RE IN THE CITY RECENTLY?

Have you looked up from your phone or your thoughts while standing at a pedestrian crossing or looked up from your steering wheel and noticed what could amount to a dozen cameras looking down at you? Then you have actually noticed more than the average person I’ve spoken to.

I was amazed when I tried this exercise myself and counted 11 cameras at just one Queen Street intersection! That was the intersection of Wellesley Street and Queen Street.

What are all these cameras for?

I venture the majority of people put their curiosity to bed concluding that these cameras must all be for safety purposes. Since private vehicle access to Wellesley Street is no longer possible from that junction, we have to assume some of these cameras are positioned to monitor vehicles illegally entering that block to help Auckland Transport with their revenue gathering.

These cameras are equipped with software that can recognise number plates and are focused on the road.

So why the need for all the others directed at the crossings and pavement?

Grant Mountjoy

LETTERS CONTINUED ON P20

MELISSA LEE: NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN AUCKLAND

Earlier this month, I held a fantastic public meeting with Mark Mitchell to highlight issues of crime in Mt Albert.

Whether it was the 739 thefts and related offences in Point Chevalier (east) last year or the total 6064 victimisations across Auckland just between March and April it is clear New Zealanders are sick of the crime across New Zealand. This is seeing schools closed out of fear in our regional towns and families feeling they cannot walk down city streets. In Parliament a few weeks ago, I led off the debate into these important local issues. I spoke directly to the issues facing Mt Albert and our Auckland suburbs:

“[New Zealanders] feel that there are not enough police to actually come to their aid. The justice system, they feel, is actually hitting the offenders with a wet bus ticket instead of being harsh so that they understand that they are not supposed to do these actions. The victims are the biggest worry that I have, because when people are victims of home invasion or they're victims of ram raids, it lasts a long, long time for them to actually get over the crime, and I think this Government needs to do more in this space.”

It is time for New Zealand to have law and order back again. In other news, as many households already felt was coming, New Zealand is now in recession and it’s hurting hard at the start of winter when power bills can soar, and the cost of living can bite as hard as the frosty weather. The news will be extremely concerning for many business owners that have faced years of economic uncertainty and in the current environment with rising rents and a shrinking economy; it’s going to be a tough July for many across the country. The data doesn’t lie, New Zealand is in bad shape, worse than Canada, the United States or Australia who have been fighting similar challenges and have managed to continue their economic growth. We are even worse off than the EU which faces the ongoing Russian invasion in Ukraine.

It’s time a strong National-led government, focused on prudent economic management that will lift incomes, economic opportunities and support for all New Zealanders is able to return to government to sort out the mess Labour have left us.

It is only with a strong economy that we can solve the cost-ofliving crisis, bring down interest rates, lift incomes and pay for the quality public services New Zealanders deserve.

Here in Auckland, my next public meeting on 3 July at Ferndale House, Mt Albert, will focus on our local small businesses across the Albert-Eden-Roskill community, and I’m pleased to be joined by Andrew Bayly, National’s Revenue & Small Business Spokesperson, and other Auckland-based National colleagues, to outline the way we can get our economy back on track for every business owner. Hope to see you there!

Best wishes for July and remember to rug up warm.

(MELISSA LEE)  PN

National Member of Parliament. National Spokesperson for Broadcasting & Media| Digital Economy and Communications | Ethnic Communities

E: mplee@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

LETTERS CONTINUED FROM

KAURI DIEBACK DELUSION

Over the last five years, I followed diligently the science behind kauri dieback, left no stone unturned, read uncounted articles and did many OIA requests. As kauri dieback was mentioned in the last issue of Ponsonby News, I would like to present some clarifications:

Forest dieback is a regular occurrence both in New Zealand and around the world, with drought being by far the most common cause.

Previously, in 1773, beech dieback was observed around Dusky Sound and just a few years ago, after a serious drought, a high number of unhealthy and dying trees were found in native forests in the top of the South Island. Periodic waves of dieback seem to be common in native forests due to competition stress, especially in regenerating forests.

Nobody denies there are unhealthy kauri in the Waitākere Ranges, but what is the reason? There are several hundreds of species of phytophthora (water moulds), no forest is free of them.

Finding phytophthora at a symptomatic tree doesn’t mean it’s responsible for the tree being sick (but it’s more likely to find phytophthora at a dying tree because the tree's resistance against infestation is weakened).

All the track closures around Auckland were based on the statement that by far most sick trees are close to a track ('70% of infections are within 50m of a track'). That was given as evidence that a kauri-killing pathogen (PA = Phytophthora agathidicida) is spreading mostly on walkers' boots.

But this information was incorrect: the latest survey revealed that only 22% of symptomatic kauri are within 50m of a walking track. That means the rate of symptomatic kauri (relative to all kauri) close to tracks is only slightly higher than away from tracks – a more detailed discussion can be found at ivkd.weebly.com

Unfortunately, the public is not correctly informed about the scientific findings. After the latest 2021/2022 survey, it was reported that 'the heart of the Waitākere forest' is still free of PA, but the really important information is not mentioned: kauri dieback started after two dry summers (around 2006) and symptomatic kauri are equally found both in areas with and without PA.

At the by far most symptomatic kauri, no PA was found in the soil around their roots and most kauri with PA around their roots were healthy.

I believe there are three main dangers for the survival of mankind: climate change, the spreading of misinformation, and our alienation from nature. Due to climate change, the weather extremes are increasing, all data is confirming that longer periods of droughts are putting trees under threat, not people enjoying nature on foot.

I really doubt it’s a good idea to misinform the public in order to push through an extremely precautionary approach and thereby drastically reducing the access to wilderness areas around Auckland. I believe we need the forest more than ever for our mental and spiritual health.

Matt Munro, Freemans Bay

LETTER OF CONCERN REGARDING THE LEADERSHIP OF WAITEMATĀ LOCAL BOARD

As a resident of Herne Bay, I was deeply concerned at the way the recent meeting of the Waitematā Local Board was conducted by Chairperson Genevieve Sage and feel compelled to voice these concerns publicly in the interests of the community.

‘Command and control’ is a very old-fashioned style of leadership often displayed by new leaders low in competence due to inexperience. It is a style that directs, tells, demands, does not listen and refuses to allow open discussion of issues because these might challenge the leader’s power and control. Typically, leaders adopting such a style have low selfawareness and so do not know what they do not know. It is only through accepting feedback that the leader can learn and grow into the role. This is the style I witnessed yesterday at the Waitematā Local Board meeting in Auckland City (Tuesday 20 June). The behaviour I observed was:

Questions, queries, suggestions by board members consistently shut down and refused air space by the Chairperson.

· A condescending and even arrogant attitude on display by the Chairperson.

The Chairperson refused to listen to board members.

· Board members were clearly frustrated with the Chairperson’s approach and at one point, unable to go on, a board member said, “The Chairperson needs to govern professionally.” Sitting at the back of the room, I was stunned at the dysfunction of the team which was clearly not being allowed to function properly. Mature, experienced team members were being treated like school children.

A skilled leader uses three tools, first identified in a broadranging research project conducted by the Australian Leadership Council in 2005. Those tools, which are proven to fully engage team members and assist them to be a high performing team are:

· Discuss their work. Ask their opinion. Recognise them appropriately.

Perhaps the most critical aspect of leadership is the ability to win hearts and minds by building trust. This is achieved through an empathic, disciplined approach in four key areas: people development, task management, ongoing culture transformation and strategic goal management. Above all, leaders must lead with integrity. All organisations have a political landscape that must be managed but when this is allowed to dominate, teams fall into disarray.

Currently, because of this leadership style, Waitematā Local Board cannot function coherently, team members suffer from a complete lack of trust in the leadership and tremendous frustration in terms of getting the task of the local board done.

The bottom line is that Waitematā Local Board has a mandate to serve the local community. Especially now, there are fundamentally important projects to be identified and delivered on. Performing this task to the highest standards for the benefit of all must be the leader’s and the team’s only agenda. The times demand clear, effective, inspiring leadership.

Sarah Newton-Palmer, Master of Business Leadership (MLM) Executive and Life Coach

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

NEW LOOK FOR PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE AND PONSY KIDS PRESCHOOL

We have been thinking for a while now that our logo needed a refresh… something more representative of the local community and also the history of the building and area.

We wanted something positive and noticeable, something recognisable as being definitely ‘Ponsonby’!

The community centre is extremely proud of the key role the Ponsonby community has always had in supporting and nurturing NZ’s LGBTTQIA+ population so we felt the Pride rainbow colours needed to have a starring role in any new branding we created.

The late 19th Century architecture also needed to make an appearance – the building was purpose built in 1897 as an infants' school extension to Ponsonby Primary, situated across the road on what was once Church Street (now Cowan Street). The community centre's distinctive double gabled roof with steep pitch, ties it to the predominant style of architecture in Ponsonby – the historic villa.

A big part of the community centre is our preschool, Ponsy Kids. Ponsy Kids has been in operation as a not-for-profit preschool for over 20 years and boasts long serving teaching staff and a mixed open plan approach for our 2-5-year-olds. As early childhood education was what our building was originally built for, it’s only fitting that Ponsy Kids' new look also echoes the building outline.

The other key functions of the community centre will also have their own distinct look, so watch out for our new imagery online.

Places now available for morning, afternoon or full day sessions!

We are licenced for tamariki aged 2-5yrs and offer 20 hours free ECE and high teacher ratios

CYCO: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

Three decades is quite some time, so Ponsonby News asked Darren Murray to tell us some of the history of the business?

As he explained, “This is CYCO’s 30th year and we are very proud to still be around. The store was originally started by Ponsonby local Chris Auld, who in 1993 was a triathlete but was struggling to get good service from the existing bike stores.”

The first store was at 282 Ponsonby Road which is now the site for Superette clothing store. It was previously a design store and had great architecture with high wooden ceilings. CYCO has always been able to cater from the new cyclist, to having clients compete at Commonwealth and Olympic games. With the success of the store it quickly out grew the space but it wasn’t until 2009 that it moved to a larger premise next to Prego.

Darren continues, “I have been part of the team at all three stores and when Chris decided to retire from being a bike shop owner, he offered me the opportunity that I couldn’t turn down. With this, we decided to move the store to our current location in Kingsland – a store that reminds us of our start in the original smaller store on Ponsonby Road. Kingsland has allowed us to still cater and help out the Ponsonby and greater community with the same quality standards that Chris put in place back in ’93.”

Is it old fashioned cycles or do you also have electric models for sale?

CYCO works differently from most shops. We only have a dozen or so bikes on the floor, we get to show you examples of bikes we can sell but not just limited to. This benefits the customer hugely as it means we always order the correct bike, in the correct colour, with the correct components, so then you will be 100 percent happy with your purchase and it is perfect for you.

We offer both E-bikes and conventional bikes in the road, mountain and gravel categories although we do have access to commuter bikes and kids' bikes if required. We hope this makes for a unique experience for every customer who comes to purchase a bike from us.

What are the most popular bikes?

Currently, road bikes are having a boom and E-mountain bikes are extremely popular. These are great as it makes your trip out to Woodhill Forest more worthwhile as you can go further than if you are on a conventional bike but have the same amount of fun.

What about the security aspect? Are they easily stolen?

The big thing with bikes is not to make them an easy target. A good lock is a great deterent and now we have access to many different tracking devices that can be fitted to your bike to make finding it a lot easier

Do you help with finance if required?

CYCO can offer finance through Qcard. Either through its Qmastercard or more traditional finance options.

Do you offer a repair service?

One thing CYCO has always prided itself on since its conception is the quality of its service dept. Jakob and Cosmo are well-respected mechanics in the industry and can perform any job that your bike requires in a relatively timely manner. We have a full workshop that can cover any job required, from a simple puncture repair to tuning DI2 shifting or updating the firmware on your E-bike – we can do it all.

We’ve heard rumours about your CEO, Chewie. Does he come to work every day?

Currently, Chewie is on a hiatus and loving life at home, we had a daughter born five months ago and he has been helping out with babysitting duties. His return is well anticipated and he will be back raring to go by the end of the year.

L to R: Jakob Lester - mechanic, Darren Murray - owner, Cosmo Bloor - mechanic, and Logan Griffin - sales/Bikefit

CYCO, 348 New North Road, Kingsland, T: 09 376 4447, www.cyco.co.nz

ride

Birthday Exclusives

From 14th to 31st July 2023

We will be offering 30% off eveything instore

*T&C apply

ÀIMAI celebrates 12 years with a new opening gallery boutique in Ponsonby.

ÀIMAI is a luxury fashion brand renowned for its timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship, effortlessly blending traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics to create seamless and elegant collections.

The brand’s exclusive use of extra-fine merino wool and cashmere sets it apart, providing its target market with garments that exude effortless style.

ÀIMAI’s merino wool collection offers exceptional comfort and versatility as anti-pilling technology is used to ensure long lasting use of each piece. Known for its softness and insulating properties, merino wool pieces transition seamlessly between seasons, from cosy sweaters to elegant scarves.

ÀIMAI celebrates 12 years with a new opening gallery boutique in Ponsonby. The brand’s cashmere collection

epitomises luxury with each garment exuding refinement and warmth, ideal for sensitive skin. Each piece showcases ÀIMAI’s commitment to perfection.

ÀIMAI is for individuals who appreciate sophistication and seek timeless fashion. By offering an exclusive collection of merino wool and cashmere, ÀIMAI provides its discerning clientele with garments that effortlessly embody grace and withstand the test of time.

ÀIMAI, 182 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby www.aimaidesign.com

GAEL BALDOCK: WELLINGTON, STOP TRYING TO CONTROL AUCKLAND. (PART 1)

With a third of the country’s population, government elections are 'won or lost in Auckland'. Is that why Wellington keeps interfering in how we shape Auckland? We are not some wayward child that needs controlling!

Auckland’s boroughs were amalgamated into seven cities in 1989. In 2010, without consultation or a referendum, the biggest, most costly experiment was pushed on Auckland by Rodney Hyde, backed by John Key, joining these cities together to create a ‘Super City’, pooling their assets together. The intention was one cohesive city, rather than individual areas with piecemeal objectives, to streamline and save costs by stopping the duplication of services in each district, instead using the best throughout all regions. That didn’t happen.

The initial 2010 debt of $3.9b at the inception of the SuperCity has grown to nearly $12b in 2023 as this monster city churns through money with CCO Eke Panuku Development as a property agent and has been selling off public assets in a ‘fire sale’ to finance this sluggish beast.

Beach adjacent, Orewa Council offices in park-like settings sold by Panuku for $15.1m (CV $28.8m).Was then leased back to council for three years for millions of dollars. Within this complex one of the two main buildings cost over $15m to build. The 20-storey inner city Civic Administration Building on 5000+ sqm of prime inner city real estate sold by Panuku for $3m. (The price of a Ponsonby villa on a poky section.) This heritage building was sold with the city coat of arms and is about to massively uplift in value due to its close proximity to the new CRL line. Most of the Waitakere Council site in Henderson was also sold for substantially less than its registered value.

Councillors actually vote to approve these disposals at unbelievably poor return to the public purse, and plan at least $225m per year. There have been attempts at selling the mariners. Several councillors have had their eye on golf courses but the January floods proved how much they’re needed for stormwater absorption along with roads as overland flow paths.

“Repeating the debt, rating and asset sale cycle that has got us to where we are today. In 2023 we’re almost at end-game though with only the balance of the airport shares and the

Ports of Auckland left. After that there’s nothing left. Job done in little over a decade and with still no meaningful attempt to address the root causes of a financial malaise that has been building up for years. Quite simply, the decision over the sale of shares in the 23/24 Budget was premature before the next Long Term Plan, without any meaningful attempt to address the much harder task of cutting costs while delivering the same or similar services.”

Councillor John Watson

“The exorbitant cost to council’s ‘Operational Budget’ lies in council’s own policies and demands, and it is here that the cause of council’s deficits is to be found and fixed. But if this root cause is not rectified we will never get out of deficit. This is part of the Long Term Plan. My answer is ‘operational savings’: eg, a slip onto a road in West Auckland is going to be handled two or three times and trucked tens of kilometres away to a landfill, when it could have been handled once and disposed of locally, turning a $20k job into a $200k job (calculated guess).”

Councillor Ken Turner

“Open the Books,” activist Penny Bright. “A third of costs can be saved by using a tendering system rather than ‘preferred contractors’.”

Auckland Council is the largest employer in the Southern Hemisphere so contractors need to compete for work.

This isn’t scaremongering, Auckland is being held over a financial barrel as Government keeps making decisions that keep costing us and getting us deeper in debt. Other counties have their whole transport system financed out of taxes. They could at least give us back the GST on rates.

Part 2 discusses other costly decisions imposed by Government upon Auckland and how to reduce operational costs.

Long Term Plan akhaveyoursay.nz/futureauckland (GAEL BALDOCK)  PN GaelB@xtra.co.nz

Wellington, stop trying to control Auckland

Photography: Ken Turner

LISA PRAGER: STOCKHOLM SYNDROME

Holy moly, brace yourselves, the Waterfront arena debate is warming up again.

Chief sunken stadium proponent Michael Sage of law firm Simpson Grierson is very comfortable with the promise of $1.8b in private funds. Presumably he thinks there is no conflict of interest with his wife Genevieve Sage being chair of the Waitematā Local Board. Yeah right!

In May Ponsonby News, “Lessons From Our Future Self” Ms Sage compares Sydney (5m population) to Auckland (1.5m), asserting the waterfront is a “blank canvas on which to wow the world”. She is 100% behind a large format CBD entertainment/sports facility. However the ‘illuminated donut design’ is no Sydney Opera House.

Here is the list of those similarly excited about a fully enclosed facility. Known as the Auckland Waterfront Consortium (AWC) - Ernst & Young; Simpson Grierson; Jones Lang Lasalle; ENGEO; Peddle Thorp; Planning Focus; Phil O’Reilly Design; Rider Levett Bucknall; Buildmedia; The Property Strategists; as well as USA-based architecture firm HOK. Some real heavy hitters.

This stadium has previously caused controversy when Auckland’s ex-Mayor Phil Goff refused to give councillors full and open access to a $1m pre-feasibility report he commissioned on the arena in 2018. Paid for by the public and subject to an ombudsman complaint, the idea was sunk only to resurface now. Goff said at the time, he was concerned to maintain obligations to third parties, but isn’t that just a form of corporate welfare?

Why would you build such a monolith on reclaimed land in the midst of a climate crisis, subject to flooding, earthquakes and possible tsunami? How smart is it to put a stadium on one of the most congested and inaccessible locations on our slender isthmus?

What is the real reason that this consortium wants public permission and private funds to build a sunken stadium on the harbour’s edge? Clearly they want to make Eden Park redundant and turn it into a high density residential development for big profits using the new stadium as leverage.

Our local democracy has already been hijacked once this year, when Ms Sage crossed the floor, leaving her Citizen & Ratepayers ticket, to join City Vision on the day she was sworn in. This move secured her the Chair of Waitematā Local Boardand gave her the casting vote on every decision.

My observation at the monthly Local Board meetings is that Ms Sage is inept and incapable of managing a meeting. At the last public forum I attended in May, she shut down members of the public, ignored questions from councillors not aligned with her point of view, passed resolutions before counting votes and abruptly left the meeting because of public push back about her dictatorial style.

I was asked “ What do you think is the reason for the lack of engagement by the public with the local board?” My answer was simple “A crisis of trust.” People do not trust politicians who say one thing and do another. The local board seems incapable of making any decisions for itself like apologising for the Erebus debacle, calling a halt to the continued use of carcinogenic chemical street sprays, let alone demanding a fix for dangerous and badly maintained roads and footpaths.

I suspect some of our elected officials are suffering from ‘Stockholm Syndrome’.

A condition where hostages develop a psychological dependance on their captors. In this case the unelected council officers act like the captor, holding procedural power and historic knowledge over the board members. Perhaps a political warrant of fitness should be required of every candidate who enters into the local body arena!

Elected members are so indoctrinated through closed workshops, brimming with complex process and legal procedure, that when it comes to understanding community skirmishes, well it’s the official line all the way.

We should be able to expect more of our elected members than incompetence and lip service, especially when there are millions and billions of dollars at stake.

(LISA PRAGER)  PN Westmere

WAYNE BROWN: IMAGINE IF THE GREENS WERE ACTUALLY GREEN

At the time of writing, it is Volunteers' Day where we recognise all those Kiwis who volunteer and contribute to our communities.

Ideally, everyone should contribute some of their time as a volunteer to the many worthy causes from helping the local sports teams, aiding those with disabilities, cleaning up our environment or in some way giving back some time for others.

My pet cause is served through my position as a trustee of Sea Cleaners – a wonderful organisation started by enthusiast Hayden Smith when only in his twenties. Sea Cleaners basically just does what its name implies. Using volunteers, we collect huge volumes of rubbish from our streams and harbours.

Under Hayden’s relentless leadership, Sea Cleaners has grown to have several boats with skippers who handle teams of mostly young volunteers who enjoy a day out fishing tons of various types of rubbish kindly donated by lazy citizens biffing their plastic wrappings, bottles and all sorts of junk, including tyres and shopping trolleys, into our marine system. Sea Cleaners goes into schools to teach young Kiwis not to mimic their parents by throwing stuff away, but to actively clean up our streams.

The areas covered now extend beyond Auckland into other provinces and even as far as Hawaii. The recent floods showing drains blocked with plastic waste only highlights the horrid truth that plastic is so widespread that it is entering the food chain and the volumes of plastic in the sea is now by far the biggest oil based pollution, far out-sizing such well publicised oil spill disaster such as from Exxon Valdez.

So the Greens need to be hammering these green environmental issues and casting their influence across all levels of society, instead they seem to be ignoring the environment in favour of social engineering. They have become Green with envy, rather than Green for the environment.

I applaud the Green’s stand in various environmental issues but I am saddened by their change of focus. It is no wonder they are being called the Watermelon Party, green on the outside and bright red in the middle.

What with climate change, storm damage and plastic waste, who now is going to champion these issues which extend way beyond rich versus poor. We all need to get involved, so come on readers, volunteer, especially for environmental groups such as Sea Cleaners. We could do with more help so check our website and volunteer.

Climate change will cause disruption but won’t kill us but micro plastics getting into the food chain probably will.

www.seacleaners.com

(WAYNE BROWN)  PN Mayor of Auckland www.facebook.com/WayneBrown4Auckland

KEN RING: WEATHER BY THE MOON

Auckland weather diary, July 2023

July is expected to be wetter than average and with less sunshine.

The first and last weeks may be the wettest, with the second week being the driest, with highest barometric pressures. The third week is the most overcast with the lowest barometer readings. The best weekend for outdoor activities may be 8th/9th.

For fishermen, the highest tides are on 5th. The best fishing bite-times in the east are around dusk on 2nd-5th, and 17th-19th. Bite-chances are also good for noons of 9th11th and 25th-27th.

For gardeners, planting is best (waxing moon ascending) on 1st and 18th-29th; and pruning on 5th-15th (waning moon descending). For preserving and longer shelf-life, pick crops or flowers around the neap tides of 12th and 27th.

Allow 24-hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING)  PN

For future weather for any date, and the 2023 NZ Weather Almanac, see www.predictweather.com

PONSONBY PARK+ JULY 2023 UPDATE

Out of the blue, the Waitematā Local Board (WLB) has NOT approved the appointment of the design studio selected to advance the Ponsonby Park development.

This appointment was scheduled for May 2023. This delay has effectively stalled the project.

The Community-Led Design Group (CLDG) has enquired as to why this is, what the hold-up may be and, most importantly, when will the appointment be made?

From what we have been able to glean, it would appear that the WLB simply needs to continue with the CLD process that has served it and the community so well to date. Then the design process, supported by the ongoing Community-Led Design (CLD) work, can address any concerns the board has.

The CLDG has worked inclusively, transparently and reliably with the WLB, by providing regular updates, presentations, analysis and information for over nine years. We have also kept the community informed and engaged over this time. The CLD process has delivered sustained and ongoing community engagement and participation at levels rarely seen by local government.

Once the appointment is approved:

· The design studio that has already been selected to develop the LandLAB Park+ Concept Design*, will work through a design process to deliver Ponsonby Park.

· The design process is the tool to collectively, collaboratively and transparently address any issues and concerns that may exist or arise.

The design process is the lens that enables other considerations to be collectively assessed, rather than doing so in an isolated silo.

Any concerns the board has can and will be addressed as the project develops from concept design through to preliminary designs, with the support of the CLD process.

A brief history of the CLDG.

23 years ago, the need for the civic space was first identified.**

17 years ago, the site at 254 Ponsonby Road was purchased to address this open space shortfall.

· 10 years ago, a petition of over 1200 signatures called for the retention of the whole site for the civic space.***

That petition resulted in the WLB establishing the CommunityLed Design process to ensure the creation of an urban space that matched the needs of the local residents, the local businesses and visitors to Ponsonby.

The WLB invited stakeholders to further the whole site, civic space objective. This included: the Ponsonby Business Association, Residents’ Associations, Community Leaders, Police, Community Groups and other interested people. An inclusive and broad stakeholder representation was

established from the very first meeting through to the final design selection submission process.

Everyone has had the opportunity to participate, submit, to comment freely during the many consultations undertaken.

By all metrics, the Community-Led Design process has been hugely successful, as evidenced by the significant and sustained interest it has generated over several years:

1243 people signed the petition for the whole site civic space.

698 people responded to the WLB’s 254 Ponsonby Road consultation.

· 190 people responded to the first CLD consultation.

· 115 people responded to the second CLD consultation.

· 1208 people responded to the third CLD consultation which resulted in the selection of the LandLAB Park+ Concept Design.

The Waitematā Local Board needs to urgently appoint the design studio to progress the Ponsonby Park project and to continue with their 10-year-long CLD engagement process. The delivery of Phase One of the development can then get back on schedule.

The funds for this are available, they are ring-fenced, but they are devaluing fast. It is fiscally imprudent to delay further.

All of which leads the CLDG to be optimistic that the design studio appointment will be made soon and that our constructive working relationship with the WLB will continue – because the CLD process will deliver a great result for everyone and it will be a result that we will all be proud to have been a part of. Watch this space.

For more information please see our webpage: www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz or our Facebook page, Ponsonby Park.

*In November 2018, LandLAB’s Park+ Concept Design won the international World Architecture News ‘Future Civic' category award.

**2000, Boffa Miskell report www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz/ uncategorized/boffa-miskell-survey-2000-open-spaceassessment-ponsonby/

***February 2019, ‘Environment & Community Committee’ unanimously supports the whole site civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road with no prerequisite land sale. (JENNIFER WARD)  PN

254ponsonbyrd.org.nz

DAVENPORTS LAW:

TIME TO REVIEW YOUR ASSET STRUCTURE

Joan and Tom had three trusts. One owned their family home, one owned their holiday home in the Bay of Islands and one had owned their business.

Now that the business had been sold, that trust held a share portfolio into which the proceeds of the sale of the business had been invested. Joan and Tom’s accountant was their professional trustee. However, he was getting close to retirement and had indicated that he no longer wished to be a trustee.

since Joan and Tom had set their trusts up and it was important that they were reviewed in light of the new Trusts Act 2019.

Tammy McLeod

Joan and Tom thought it would be good to take the opportunity to completely review their trust structure. They talked to a friend who recommended that they seek advice from a trust specialist. He explained that trust law had become very complex and was firmly out of the domain of general practice lawyers. So, Joan and Tom made a time with the specialist trust lawyer he recommended and took the large folders with all of their trust documents inside, along.

The lawyer said she would be very happy to review the trust documents but questioned in the first instance why they had so many trusts. Joan and Tom didn’t really know, other than they thought that was what their accountant had recommended at the time. The lawyer advised that when they had their business it was probably a good idea to have had their business in a separate trust. However, now that it had been sold, there was no need to continue to hold the proceeds in a separate trust.

The lawyer also said there was no good reason why the bach was in a separate trust and said it could easily be in the same trust as their family home. She recommended that she review the trust deeds for all three trusts to see which one was most up-to-date in its terms. If there was one that was on modern and flexible terms, she said they could resettle or transfer the assets from the other trusts into that one. Much had changed

If none of the trust deeds were suitable, then Joan and Tom could establish a new, modern, flexible trust and transfer all of the assets of the other trusts on to the new trust. Joan was a bit alarmed by this. She had heard that if you moved properties that weren’t your family home out of trusts, then the bright-line test would be re-set. Their new lawyer confirmed that yes, that had been true until very recently when new legislation introduced roll-over relief. What this meant was that residential properties could now be transferred in certain circumstances from trust to trust with no tax consequences. This was only a recent development in the law, but one that Joan and Tom could take advantage of.

The restructuring of Joan and Tom’s affairs also included reviewing their wills and their memorandum of wishes for the trust. It had been some time since this had been looked at. The lawyer said it was important to review these documents regularly, either when there was a change in circumstances, or ideally no less than every three years. She also reviewed their enduring powers of attorney to make sure these were still appropriate, and Joan and Tom identified an important change they wanted to make.

Review of your asset structuring is something that needs to be done on a regular basis. It is not only your circumstances that might change, but there can be important changes in the law that may enable you to more easily simplify your affairs, or it may be something that could render your existing documents out of date and not fit for purpose.

It is also important to see a trust specialist. Asset structuring has become complex. Modern lives are more complicated and the documents that govern our affairs are also less straightforward than they used to be. It is always better to document well upfront, rather than have to deal with a messy situation in the future due to lack of planning.

Asset Protection. Do You Need a Trust?

The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people. Trusts are invaluable asset protection mechanisms, which allow a person to hold property and assets on behalf of another for the good of the beneficiaries.

However, not everyone needs a trust, so ensuring other forms of asset structuring including your will and enduring powers of attorney are up to date is important.

Contact Tammy McLeod or one of the Trust Team for specialist asset structuring and planning advice.

MAHESH MURALIDHAR:

NATIONAL PARTY CANDIDATE FOR AUCKLAND CENTRAL

Last week, University of Auckland student Anya* told me how she’s getting by on one meal a day because she can no longer afford the most basic groceries. Her friends shared stories of pleading for extra shifts at their part-time jobs to help ease the pressure on their families and, in one heart wrenching case, contemplating having to choose between continuing their education and keeping a roof over their heads.

This is the reality of what a so-called technical recession looks like for so many Kiwis. The cost of everything from food to fuel is up, driven by inflation rates that Aotearoa New Zealand hasn’t experienced since 1990. Every week, we’re spending more for less. And while we’re all hoping the worst is behind us, commentators have a more sobering view, with Kiwibank’s Chief Economist predicting that the second half of the year will be tougher than the first.

We often hear the argument that this is a global issue - the implication being this is a cost of living crisis we had no choice but to have. The reality is that tradeable inflation (the component affected by international price movements and exchange rates) has dropped by nearly 24%, while nontradeable aka NZ-centric inflation continues to rise. For the fifth year in a row, inflation is more than 200% higher than the Reserve Bank target.

Despite facing similar macro challenges, almost every country we compare ourselves with is in better economic shape. This is a New Zealand issue. And there’s no denying that the Government could and should have acted to get things under control before our economy spiralled backwards.

Cutting wasteful Government spending would have been a great start. The word limit on this article sadly precludes me from sharing a comprehensive list, but an annual spend of $1.2 billion on consultants is staggering - especially when you

consider that the in-house public service has simultaneously grown by 33% since Labour came into office. And judging by the quality of our services, the value delivered by this expenditure is questionable at best.

Public spending is critical to a healthy economy, but only when it delivers real results for our communities. Taxpayer monies should go towards boosting our critical frontline services, building infrastructure that is resilient and helps us grow, and easing the pain on hardworking residents and businesses. And our Governments should be measured and held accountable based on the outcomes they deliver, not the announcements they make.

When I’m out campaigning in Auckland Central, I meet so many people who spend every hour of their day working hard to grow their businesses, help their communities and create jobs. It’s those people, and the people they employ, that we need to unleash to really get our economy humming.

That means reducing the cost of living, restoring discipline to government spending, cutting red tape and backing our businesses to succeed. We’ve progressed so much as a city but at the moment our innovation feels held back – it’s hard to innovate when you’re drowning in costs and our young people can no longer afford to call Auckland Central home.

Anya and her friends deserve better. We all do. *name changed to protect privacy

Mahesh Muralidhar

National

Party

Candidate for Auckland Central E: mahesh.muralidhar@national.org.nz www.national.org.nz/maheshmuralidhar

Authorised by M Muralidhar, 188 Ponsonby Road, Auckland

Mahesh Muralidhar chatting to locals at the Britomart Markets

Friends Mark Graham, Jane Findlayson and Cate Johns

Photography: Joanne Davies, The Poi Room

Scotty Morrison, Stacey Morrison and Clayton Smith. Scotty and Stacey blessed the space with a karakia to start the evening

Clayton and Melanie-Jane Smith, owners of The Poi Room

Melanie-Jane with Dorinda, Chris, son Gabe and Jacqui from F45 in Grey Lynn continued p64

HELEN WHITE: SUPPORT FOR TODAY, BUILDING FOR TOMORROW

We’ve recently released Budget 2023, which sets out more support for today and the next steps in our plan to build for tomorrow.

I wanted to use this opportunity to share a few key initiatives, including a cost of living package to ease the pressure on people here in Auckland.

We appreciate that many are doing it tough right now, and this budget aims to provide practical cost of living support across some of the core expenses facing New Zealanders –childcare, healthcare, transport and power bills. It will help to make things a bit easier for families, students and older New Zealanders by reducing or removing some of the costs they currently face. Millions of Kiwis will pay a little less as a result.

We’re helping parents stretch their budgets a little further, by making childcare cheaper with 20 hours free ECE for twoyear-olds. This will be a major saving for families and will reduce barriers for working parents to take on more hours if they can.

Removing the $5 co-payment on prescriptions will make it easier and cheaper for Kiwis to access the medicines they need. Starting 1 July, this will have a meaningful impact for many households, particularly those who have multiple prescriptions to fill on a regular basis.

Public transport is now more accessible for young New Zealanders, permanently. We’re providing free fares on buses, trains and ferries for children aged five to 12 and halfprice discounts for all passengers aged 13 to 24, from July this year. Free fares for kids under 13 could see savings of $30 a week for families with two children. This will make getting to school and tertiary education cheaper and easier.

We’re also reducing power bills by making Kiwi homes more energy efficient. In addition to the Winter Energy Payment, we’re helping to reduce power bills by over a hundred dollars a year through the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme. We’re nearly doubling the existing retrofit programme that has reduced electricity use by on average 16% over the winter months.

These initiatives will help Auckland households now, while also delivering long-term education, health and climate benefits.

Budget 2023 also includes a massive boost to our country’s infrastructure which has been tested during the recent flooding and cyclone. That’s why we’ve allocated significant funds to build back better with greater resilience, to protect communities from increasingly severe and unpredictable weather events.

It’s a practical Budget focused on the basics, and making investments where they are needed most. However, we need to do more than just respond to the challenges of today, we also need to build for the future. That’s why we’re continuing to make targeted investments in areas that are critical to grow the economy and lift productivity.

Investing in infrastructure, skills, science and technology supports every area of the economy. It’s how we support people into work, drive higher wages for Kiwis and build a stronger, inclusive and more resilient economy.

Labour List MP based in Mt Albert. www.labour.org.nz/HelenWhite

Funded by Parliamentary Services.

(HELEN WHITE)  PN

PRIME POSITION

Nestled amongst the beautiful grand villas of Grey Lynn, sits an icon from the 1960s. When they built real buildings from concrete block and weather board and sunny bright interiors. Grey Lynn, home to many world famous artists inspired by the rich multi-cultural and diverse warmth and charm of the people.

Just one of 12 homes, located on the corner of Crummer Road and Grosvenor Street and right in the heart of this sought after suburb, you can come and make this your home.

Charmingly proportioned, this one-bedroom top-floor apartment is a true treasure. Leave the car at home and walk to Great North Road in minutes, fast becoming home to some of the finest interior and designer stores Auckland has to offer.

Or, equidistance to Ponsonby Road with all the fabulous eateries in Ponsonby Central, even the Silky Otter cinema if you fancy a movie. Or, a few minutes to the Grey Lynn shops, the Grey Lynn Farmers Market on a Sunday morning for all your fresh produce for the week.

Alternatively, a gentle wander through the sculptures of Grey Lynn Park. Uber gets you into the Commercial Bay shopping precinct and downtown Auckland CBD for around $12. No more parking tickets! You are absolutely spoilt for choice, so what are you waiting for?

Proudly presenting to you a very cool pocket rocket. Set Date Sale: 20 July, 2pm.

For a private viewing, call Suzie Paine on T: 021 976 008, www.bayleys.co.nz/suzie-paine

Grey Lynn 9/90 Crummer Road

Stylish 1960s pocket rocket

This one bedroom one bathroom beauty ticks all the boxes. With outstanding city views & constructed from concrete and weatherboard, this elevated corner position on the top floor is a must view. Sun drenched with views to the sky tower and sweeping across Grey Lynn.

Located only a couple of minutes to Grey Lynn Park and a short walk to Ponsonby Road or the Grey Lynn shops. One generous sized double bedroom with built in wardrobing. Separate laundry. Open plan living/dining leads out to a small north/east facing balcony. One off street car space. This is your chance to get your foot on the ladder in this dynamic area and own this very easy lock-up and leave. Call now for an appointment or come to the open home. bayleys.co.nz/1672061

Set Sale Date (unless sold prior) 2pm, Thur 20th July 2023

305 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby View Sunday 11.00am-11.30am

Suzie Paine 021 976 008 suzie.paine@bayleys.co.nz

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR – WAITEMATĀ LOCAL BOARD

Every three years the Waitematā Local Board, in consultation with the people in our community, aims to deliver a new strategic three-year Local Board Plan that places people at its heart.

This plan sets out the direction for the local area, reflecting community aspirations and priorities. Our Local Board Plan 2023 key portfolio priorities are our people, our environment, our community, our places and our economy.

People are the heart of Waitematā. They thrive in an environment where their various skills and needs are supported, where they can connect with others and have equitable access to social, economic, environmental and cultural opportunities. People deserve to live in an environment that celebrates their diverse culture and heritage.

Taking these key themes into consideration enables us to prioritise budgets to focus on the initiatives within the plan. This allows us to make best use of local assets, such as community centres, libraries and parks. It also gives council staff a clear road map to help them deliver projects and services in line with what our community wants.

When there are key projects in our local board area that are beyond our funding or authority to make decisions on, another key role we have is to advocate to other decision makers to ensure they are aware of the community's views and of our support.

Local board plans are also an essential way to deliver Māori outcomes at a local level. The board has actively sought Mana Whenua input into projects such as naming and design for parks and public spaces.

Whakawhanaungatanga is at the heart of our planning. Having open communication channels and good relationships are key to the success of our beautiful Te Waitematā and delivering better outcomes for our people and environment.

We are piloting a deliberative democracy model focusing on rangatahi to improve education and awareness of the governance process and to facilitate youth-voice in programming and delivery for youth.

Meeting climate goals in this plan also mean taking ambitious action to reduce emissions and to adapt to any changes in climate patterns that may impact our area. Integrating climate awareness into all decisions will help us to better mitigate future risk. Within the local board area, the waterfront is identified as a hotspot, both vulnerable to changes in climate conditions and with limited capacity to adapt.

We will be sharing our draft plan with you in mid July to get your feedback. The path ahead presents significant challenges and opportunities. Your thoughts, ideas and feedback are invaluable to us as we shape the future of our community. I encourage each and every one of you to share your voice and contribute to our shared vision of Waitematā being the best place to live, work, learn and play.

Come and talk to us on Tuesday 1 August, 4:30pm – 7pm at the Ellen Melville Centre about the draft plan or visit www.akhaveyoursay.nz/localboardplans from 14 July.

Genevieve Sage, Waitematā Local Board Chair

@ LEYS LITTLE LIBRARY, PONSONBY

Kia ora Ponsonby, we have so many exciting events happening this month.

Most of them are centered around Matariki, which is on Friday, 14 July. This is a public holiday, so please note we will be closed that day, but will be open from 9am on Saturday as usual.

School holidays are on now. This is not a drill. We have heaps of children’s books, activities, and events on, so feel free to stop by and join in. We have flyers in the library listing all the events happening in the Waitematā area, but here is a glimpse into what is available for kids:

Robogals (Saturday, 1 July 10am-11:30am) –Robogals are back by popular demand. Robogals are a group of Auckland University students who promote STEM skills with their wonderful kids’ workshops. Email leysinstitutelibraryponsonby@aklc.govt.nz to book. For kids aged eight to 12.

Harakeke Weaving (Saturday, 8 July 10am-11am) –Raranga is the art of weaving native flax into all sorts of beautiful and practical taonga (treasures). Join us for a fun morning where we’ll learn how to weave flax into stars, bags and fish.

· Matariki Bingo and Games Day (Saturday, 15 July 10am12 noon) – Leys Institute Little Library is hosting a Matariki games event with prizes up for grabs. Join us for a cosy morning with Matariki bingo, Tī rakau and more.

Tell us what’s important, Waitematā

Our local board has come up with a three-year plan outlining the key initiatives we want to focus on. Now we need your help to check if we’ve got it right. Submissions must be received by 4pm Monday 14 August.

For more information go to: akhaveyoursay.co.nz/localboardplans

I t ’s your place. Your voice.

All events are free and take place in the library. Have a look at our Facebook page for more information about these events. Speaking of which, our Facebook is a great place to find more books to read – we post book recommendations from our librarians every Friday.

We also have some events for adults: Matariki Poetry Night on Thursday, 20 July.

Doors will open at 6pm, and the event will start at 6:30pm. There will be wine, snacks and an excellent display of poetic talent. This is open mic, so come prepared with a poem of your own if you’re feeling brave. We also have our monthly Leys Bookchat meeting on Thursday, 27 July at 10am in the library – come along to hear what other bookworms in Ponsonby have been reading.

Lastly, do your kids read a lot during the school holidays? We have another Beanstack Challenge (Ngā Tamariki o Matariki – The Children of Matariki) with prizes to be won for keen readers, so come into the library to pick up one of our challenge logs.

Go to aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/schoolholidays to learn more about this programme.

Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm, Sunday closed. (CHLOË – Manager)

Photography: Josh Griggs

PONSONBY U3A: JUNE 2023

The Waipareira Trust

At the June meeting of Ponsonby U3A, charged with educating members on the Waipareira Trust, Chief Executive John Tamihere delivered a lively and educative session. He outlined the sociological changes that gave rise to the Trust, the tikanga that guided its formation, its work to date and the challenges faced by the Trust over time.

Urban drift was swift and brutal. After WW2, the population in New Zealand was 84% rural but by 1972 it was 78% urban. As they moved off the land, many Māori families landed in West Auckland, resulting in a whole bunch of different tribes coming together. Conceived in 1968, the Hoani Waititi Marae was opened in 1980 to unite all iwi in protecting and nurturing Māori values in an urban environment.

In 1982, what would later become Te O Waipareira was established to deliver the Kokiri Programme in West Auckland. This saw throughout the 1980s resources including development funding, education services and employment programmes begin to move out into the community from the Department of Māori Affairs into the hands of runanga iwi. Focusing on long term solutions for Māori, there was investment in health, welfare, education and justice facilities run by the Trust.

John asserts that one of the chief challenges to Māori development is building a sustainable middle class given the appalling statistics. Roughly speaking, one third of the Māori population is in prison, one third is on welfare and one third earns under $54,000 per year. To address this, Māori voices were developed in broadcasting and in 1992, a multi-tribal Māori Fisheries Settlement was made with Sealord and the government.

In 2014, the National Urban Māori Authority signed the historical Te Pou Matakana, the largest government contract given to Māori, for Māori, by Māori. Te Whānau O Waipareira takes a central role in running it. A building industry was started with a major development site in Waterview and later elsewhere, enabling Māori to get their children into trades.

An agreement was negotiated with Pharmac to support the Trust’s major health campaign by lowering the costs. The Trust was the first to advance a model of healthcare that accommodates diversity by medical services going out to the people. Nurses do triage and follow up and general practitioners do quality assurance. This model has been adopted for indigenous people in North America.

And underpinning these initiatives is the ongoing challenge of education, the eliminator of differences.

Kathy Walker, longstanding Ponsonby U3A member, treated members to a rousing 10-minute talk. Kathy spent a summer working on an idyllic Greek island in the north Aegean Sea. Lesbos is famous for producing the best ouzo of Greece and for being the land of the famous Greek female poet Sappho, who lived in the 7th Century BC and wrote wonderful poems about her lesbian relationships as well as hymns, love songs and poems on various themes.

Kathy tripped us through the varied scenery, petrified forests and salt marshes and the beautiful architecture, dating back in the case of one aqueduct to 3rd Century BC. Sadly, Lesbos is now an island of contrast. One side is home to writers, poets, politicians and celebrities and the other encamps Syrian refugees whose population has swelled to over 42,000, almost half the population of the whole island. Conflict is rife. Lesbos has gone from paradise to paradise lost.

Ponsonby U3A welcomes newcomers. If you are interested in attending, first as a visitor, please call President Ian Smith on M: 021 130 2330. (CHRISTINE HART)  PN

NEXT MEETING: Friday, 7 July at 9.30am.

GUEST SPEAKER: Médecins sans Frontières

VENUE: Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Reserve, Salisbury Street, Herne Bay

ENQUIRIES: Ian Smith, President, Ponsonby U3A. M: 021 130 2330, www.u3a.nz

CHLÖE SWARBRICK: Auckland Central MP

It has been the greatest honour of my life to serve our community and home of Auckland Central these past nearly three years, let alone in the face of some of the greatest challenges of our lifetime thrown our way.

The pandemic, associated restrictions and disruptions, inflationary pressures and climate change-charged weather are just the tip of the iceberg; their ripples through our schools, households, communities, social and front-line services, businesses and institutions will continue to be felt and unpacked for years to come.

We have got through with grit, determination and collaboration. Throughout the Covid-19 lockdowns, I ended up with the boss of the Northern Regional Health Coordination Centre on speed dial as I pushed for, and we established, greater capacity for vaccinations and walk-ups and testing in our central city.

Working across our business associations and small businesses, driving an open letter campaign, we managed to win a process for negotiating commercial rent reductions and extension of Government support as the pandemic continued.

In the midst of dire stories out of student accommodation, working with student associations, RAs and students themselves, I pushed for and achieved the Student Accommodation Inquiry, in turn allowing us to secure the country’s first ever pastoral care code for domestic students and the first pathway for compensation when things go wrong.

In 2022, we went on to wrangle the largest-scale collaboration across student unions seen in decades with the People’s Inquiry into Student Wellbeing, which serves as the bible for our fight in overhauling the tertiary education system moving forward. For those following the news of massive redundancies and coursecutting across universities, this work is one of many necessary pieces of work. Like the work I’ve also recently done pulling together student associations, the Tertiary Education Union and our Education Minister for a round-table.

It took an unnecessary number of months, but working with the Washer family, we saved the White Lady food truck’s licence and have a pathway for all the more – instead of fewer – food trucks and vibrancy in our city centre.

We’ve been transparent and staunch in our stance against the initial austerity Mayoral Budget proposals, and managed through months of community organisation to help drive the

largest ever submissions to an Annual Budget, ultimately softening cuts across climate, public transport, arts and culture and community.

It’s been a huge amount of mahi, but there’s still more to do. That’s why I was proud this June to launch my campaign for the privilege to represent you again for another three years.

There’s ongoing work – and news to come soon on some of my long-term work – like that to link up council and social services to relieve pressure on police and ensure those who need help get it, build flooding and climate resilience in our built and natural environment, save the St James, protect the Hauraki Gulf (especially from the impacts of bottom trawling), ensure a more people, and therefore business, friendly city centre, restore tree protection and enable greater urban food gardening. And that’s just the local work. In Parliament, I continue holding the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Treasury and Ministers to account for fiscal and monetary policy, driving evidence-based change in ADHD treatment, improve the lot for the 1.4 million renters in our country –noting Auckland Central is the electorate with the highest concentration of them – and so much more.

Our communities are strongest when we work together to solve problems, which oftentimes means working through different perspectives, interests and life experiences. That’s been a hallmark of my time in politics, which I can only begin to tell you about in, for example, my recent wonderful, colourful, solutions-focused conversations with Sir Ian Taylor.

Finally, I wanted to acknowledge and thank Archie Cafe and Cafe Cezanne for their contributions to our neighbourhood. It goes without saying that Auckland and Ponsonby are better for productive, local, family-owned small businesses giving it their all.

These past few years, I’ve been proud to see behind the scenes of many of these incredible teams and, as always, have my office doors open to discuss any issues or assistance we could provide.

CHLÖE SWARBRICK, T: 09 378 4810, E: chloe.swarbrick@parliament.govt.nz www.greens.org.nz/chloe_swarbrick

Mānawatia a Matariki! (CHLÖE SWARBRICK)  PN

Chlöe Swarbrick welcomes tamariki at her recent Auckland Central campaign launch at HomeGround, Auckland City Mission

photography: Ed Duncan

YOU’RE INVITED TO PONSONBY’S BEST KEPT SECRET: THE VILLAGE RESERVE

Surrounded by characterful heritage homes in the heart of Grey Lynn, The Village Reserve is an elegant, boutique property perfectly appointed for groups and families travelling to the vibrant inner central location for work or play.

Grey Lynn has long been renowned for its creative vibe and world class cafes, bars and restaurants, making it the ideal home base especially for those in advertising, art and film communities. The perfect spot for production teams on location shoots and forward thinking businesses wishing to create a home away from home for their skilled professionals, it places you in the heart of the Auckland creative industry’s most sought-after destination as well as being just minutes’ from the hustle and bustle of Ponsonby Road and the city’s financial and legal hub in the CBD.

The perfect base from which to explore all that inner central Auckland has to offer, and with the flexibility of two separate floors or exclusive use, our space effortlessly caters to a variety of guest accommodations, and the lifestyle-led configuration of our beautiful residence makes it perfect for groups travelling to the city, with private rooms for all. Privacy, always top of mind from the moment we opened our doors, there are six chic ensuites in place, as well as a large, family-sized bathroom and guest powder room, which will be greatly appreciated by those travelling for business needing their own space in which to focus.

Both floors of the residence also come with a well spec’d, modern kitchen for those keen on self-catering during their extended stay, and there are a variety of great supermarkets available to shop at close by including boutique-style Farro Fresh, organic store Huckleberry and popular Countdown. There is also the locally run Grey Lynn Farmers Market, which takes place every Sunday at the Grey Lynn Community Centre from 8:30am and is very much worthy of a visit.

Active types will love the fact that The Village Reserve lies on the edge of busy Grey Lynn Park and its myriad of running and walking tracks, while entertaining clients and friends is a given, either at one of Ponsonby Road’s numerous hot spots or amongst the cosmopolitan cool of West Lynn’s critically acclaimed bars and restaurants. Whether you’re a foodie, a passionate shopper or in town for business, you can rest assured that a stay at The Village Reserve will have everything you need quite literally at your fingertips.

In terms of travel farther afield, all of Auckland’s motorways connect to the North Western Motorway, with the Western Springs exit just a short drive from The Village Reserve, while an on-site laundry, full housekeeping service, 24-hour security and plenty of free parking ensure easy access to all of the amenities you may need for a comfortable, extended stay.

With all of the premium extras found in a hotel but at a more affordable price point and in a stylish, executive residence where space and privacy is guaranteed, make The Village Reserve be your home base in this vibrant, exciting city.

Call or email us with the code 'Pamper me please' and get a late checkout on your booking or a special gift.

E: bookings@villagereserve.co.nz

T: Amanda Gonthier 0275 223 834

T: Steven Ingram 029 376 6445

www.villagereserve.co.nz

A KŌRERO WITH THE WIND: VOICE OF THE KŌKŌHAU FOLLY OPENS AT BRICK BAY

The 8th Brick Bay Folly architectural design project is complete and open to visitors.

The 6.5m high A-frame structure Te Reo o te Hau (Voice of the Kōkōhau) was designed by four architectural graduates of Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington School of Architecture and provides a spectacular entrance to Brick Bay. Despite living in Wellington and Christchurch, team members Mathew Green, William Creighton, Seth Trocio and Chris Gandhi were driven to explore a local story about the voice of the wind. This wind (kōkōhau in te reo Māori) is called Mangatāwhiri – the breeze that sweeps across the bay of nearby Omaha. As the team members outlined in their proposal:

The wind holds many stories as it sweeps through. It speaks of the health and wellbeing of the people, the moana and the whenua. Without the wind, we would be breathless, birds would not fly, seeds would not spread, oceans would be lifeless and our people would not be prosperous. The wind has a voice. It echoes our past, voices our present and opens to our future. This project asks you to listen to the voice of the wind and explore the kōrero it has with the surroundings.

Voice of the Kōkōhau uses layers of recycled kwila shingles, strung in a way to allow precisely enough movement to enable a subtle kinetic effect, creating a soft clatter of timber like an earthly wind-chime. The ordered assemblage of layered shingles is painted in a multi-coloured palette and each one inherits the role of a feather. Collectively, the impression of a kākahu (cloak) is created, appearing to drape over the structure, which grounds the structure within the land.

The Folly has an interactive quality about it – not only in the curiosity and delight it creates through movement and sound, but in the way it encases those who visit it, encouraging them to walk through it, to be sheltered and feel connected to the elements. Creighton explains: “As you enter, it’s like a cloak of manaaki, or support. It’s ephemeral but also grounded in the cultural narrative of the site. Nearby Te Hauturu-o-Toi (Little Barrier) is the final resting place of the God of Wind and a cloud rests over it, almost like a crown.”

The concept, deeply informed by mātauranga Māori, involved consultation with local iwi Ngāti Manuhiri to ensure the subject matter was handled correctly, and with cultural sensitivity. As architect and Folly competition chair Pip Cheshire notes:

“This year’s Folly has a strong idea founded on the cultural history of the site, a complex logistical exercise involving a team strung out over the lower half of the country and a door-die goal of harnessing the wind… It is a fine piece.”

Voice of the Kōkōhau is indeed an innovative example of architecture used to explore the power of the wind and bring its mysterious, invisible character to life.

Explore the Folly along with the famous Brick Bay Sculpture Trail. Entry to the trail is just $12 for adults with discounts for kids and pensioners. Family passes are also available at $35 each. Brick Bay is open every day from 10am. There is no need to book for the Folly or the Sculpture Trail but bookings are recommended for lunch in the Glass House Restaurant.

(TEGAN DUNN)  PN

Location: 17 Arabella Lane, Snells Beach, www.brickbay.co.nz

Photography: Sam Hartnett

DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEM OF MATAKANA VILLAGE

With the convenience of the new northern motorway. New motorway, endless possibilities. The recently opened motorway from Pūhoi to Warkworth has transformed the accessibility to Matakana Village and its famous Farmers Market. Discover a world-class village brimming with smalltown charm and a heartwarming shopping experience that will leave you inspired.

Matakana Village is not just about the market; it's a haven for independent retailers and artisan food producers who pour their passion into their businesses. With the new motorway, a relaxed mid-week shopping experience awaits you, free from the bustling crowds of the city. Explore carefully curated collections of art, homewares, fashion, jewellery and unique gifts that are sure to delight.

Unity Collection is one gallery showcasing authentic Māori contemporary art, design and fashion. Its open and friendly environment invites visitors to connect with the rich cultural heritage and experience the power of authentic storytelling. Step into Unity Collection and be captivated by the beauty and significance of raranga (weaving), mahi toi (Art), kākahu (clothing), taonga (jewellery), rongoa (well-being) and whare kainga (homeware). You’ll find plenty of art to explore at Matakana Village. Artform is an ever-changing gallery showcasing captivating works from leading New Zealand artists and you’ll find plenty to beautify your home with at Marshall Home.

Indulge your taste buds at Honest Chocolat, an awardwinning artisan chocolatier. Husband and wife team Nico and Emily Bonnaud create exquisite small-batch chocolates using ethically sourced ingredients. Treat yourself to their delectable creations or explore the depth of flavours with an in-depth and educational chocolate tasting.

Speaking of culinary delights, savour the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries at Ringawera Baker. With an open kitchen, you can witness the passionate team, led by Patrick Griffiths, craft their masterpieces from scratch. Sourdough, ciabatta, baguettes and more await, made with quality ingredients and organic goodness. Don't miss their irresistible pastries, croissants, brioche and the iconic pain au chocolat that will transport your taste buds to heaven.

To complete your experience, savour a cup of artisanal coffee from The Roastery Matakana Coffee. Their award-winning blends, single origin coffees and Fairtrade organic varietals will delight coffee enthusiasts.

Make Matakana Village your next getaway. Explore its hidden treasures, enjoy the riverside ambiance at MMK, catch a movie at the village cinema and enjoy a wine tasting at The Vintry where the wine list features over 40 local wines.

Visit Matakana Village, where the new motorway brings you closer to a world of charm, creativity and genuine hospitality. Start your adventure today!

www.matakanavillage.co.nz

IT’S FRENCH WINE MONTH AT YOUR LOCAL WINE BAR

When you lift the lid on French wine, it is not all as complex as it seems. As the French celebrate Bastille Day with full French flair in July, it seemed timely to focus on France. With a few key pieces of information we’ll have you an expert (or seemingly so) in no time at all.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux located in France’s south-west has for many years been the centre of the world’s fine wine trade, an historic region producing exceptionally long-lived wines. The five key red varieties of Bordeaux red wines are cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, petit verdot and malbec. White wines focus on sauvignon and semillon.

Burgundy

The romantic region of Burgundy starts with Chablis in the north and finishes with Beaujolais in the south. Wines from Chablis are made from 100% chardonnay, from the heart of Burgundy, whites are also from chardonnay, whilst reds are made from pinot noir. Right in the south, the grape variety of Beaujolais is gamay.

Alsace

The region of Alsace makes it a little easier to understand by putting the variety on the label. The five noble varieties grown here are pinot gris, riesling, gewürztraminer, pinot blanc and muscat.

Rhone

Distinctly broken into two sections, the northern and southern Rhone, and stretching itself over 800km from just south of Lyon to Avignon in the south. The northern Rhone is home to the great syrah of France, rich and superbly textured. The white superstar of the north is viognier grown in and around the village of Condrieu. The southern Rhone is home to grenache and the great blended wines of the Rhone.

Loire Valley

There are numerous wines produced in the Loire, we choose to focus on the areas of Sancerre, Pouilly Fume and Vouvray. Sancerre is produced around the town by the same name and are made from sauvignon blanc, Pouilly Fume (not to be confused with Pouilly Fuisse from Burgundy) are also made from sauvignon, the term fume is not referring to a smoked flavour in the wine but rather to the mist that rolls into the region. The wines of Vouvray are grown on top of the steep chalk slopes alongside the Loire River. Vouvray’s are made

from chenin blanc and in a wide array of styles from dry to very sweet.

The South Lumped together, it is a big generalisation and a big area to cover. The south coast of France produces the most diverse collection of styles in France. Starting to the west, close to the Spanish boarder, there are rich and robust reds like the wines of Madiran and Banylus, moving to the east and across the sun-drenched beaches of the Mediterranean, all the delights of Cotes de Provence rose hit you which, just for the record, is not just a summer drink. Try a rose with roast duck in winter –the match is delicious.

To put your new-found knowledge to the test and learn more, we have a host of French wines by the glass at Dida's this month. We’d love to see you. These wines are a great match with our innovative food menu. The small plates, called mali in Croatian, pair perfectly with the multiple by-the-glass French wines throughout July.  PN

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

It's French month at Superb French wines by the glass!

FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

Malkiat Singh and his father, Amrik, have recently joined the market, selling BioGro certified organic vegetables.

We asked the pair to tell us about their business.

Where did you grow up?

In the north of India. Chandigarh is small by Indian standards but has nearly as many people as Auckland. Everywhere is dense in India – it’s a competitive environment that encourages a drive to do things.

What did you study there?

Mechatronics and industrial automation. I was lucky to be accepted into the Indo-Swiss Training Centre. It was intense but I loved it and I’m particularly proud of a project where we built a small autonomous vehicle from scratch using scrap metals.

What did you do when you got to New Zealand?

A mix of more study and work. I started in Auckland before moving to Christchurch where I worked as a software engineer.

When did you start getting interested in growing vegetables?

My grandparents were farmers, and my mother grew a lot of vegetables on our roof-top garden, but I had never gardened until I was living with an eclectic bunch of flatmates in Christchurch who were strong advocates for growing and eating organic food. Growing vegetables and getting my hands into the soil brought back lots of memories of home.

When did you start gardening in Auckland?

We started with a small plot at our home when we moved to Tuakau, turning our lawn into a garden. We set up compost and an automated irrigation system to create a prolific garden full of fruit trees and vegetables. Our aim was to feed our family but we were impressed with what could be achieved in a small plot.

Where did your name come from?

The name of our farm was inspired by Kingseat Road, in Pukekohe, where we bought a lifestyle block. We also like the word play – Kings eat Organics – with our customers being kings and queens.

What is your approach to growing on a commercial scale? We started with one paddock, then two and then three paddocks. We enrolled in the BioGro programme and then went wild planting a huge range of vegetable seeds as trial crops. It’s an elimination strategy – taking lots of measurements and notes, watching what grows well on our land and what

doesn’t. We are taking the path of least resistance, growing the crops that are hardiest and easiest to grow on our land.

How did you end up at Grey Lynn Farmers Market?

Initially, we supplied to Chantal Organics and to Ooooby but we were keen to build relationships with the people eating our produce. When we were checking out markets, a customer at Grey Lynn told me that they regularly travel across Auckland because of the range of fresh vegetables and the number of organic growers – I knew this market was a good fit for us.

What have customers said to you?

They love to hear about how we are growing our vegetables. Some have been surprised to find turnips which they remember from their childhood but haven’t seen for years. Others are surprised that there is no soil on our produce –that’s because we spend hours on Saturday harvesting and washing the vegetables to get ready for the market.

Do you get any time off?

When you love farming, every day is a dream holiday. I split my time between my young family and the farm. We have lots of chickens and two water buffaloes with two calves –they are pets, so the babies get all the milk. We also planted hundreds of trees including fruit trees and Manuka. Some of our crops are grown specifically to support bees over winter. And I have a few projects in the pipeline including making organic skincare from our farm produce, and time-saving farming tools and small machines. Life is busy and fun.

kingseatorganics.co.nz

greylynnfarmersmarket.co.nz

WINTER WEEKDAYS

This winter we have some great lunchtime o ers that will have you ‘accidentally’ leaving your lunch at home when you go to work.

at Ponsonby Central

3 JULY - 31 AUGUST MON - FRI

GAJA Chicken with rice $19

MORE WINE, FOOD & PRESENTERS AT THE NEW-LOOK WINETOPIA

International presenters are back this year at Winetopia with Chef and TV personality Colin Fassnidge joining the Auckland line-up from 21 – 22 July at the new venue of the Viaduct Event Centre.

Originally from Dublin, Colin Fassnidge is best known for his long-standing role as judge on My Kitchen Rules and as a chef and restaurateur of Banksia Bistro and the Castlereagh by Fassnidge, both in New South Wales. Colin will be at the event all three sessions, sharing a glass with visitors at the Main Stage, cooking up his favourite dishes to match with wine in the Gaggenau Sommelier Sessions and meeting ticketholders in the Premium Lounge.

“I’m looking forward to exploring all the fantastic wines at Winetopia and discovering some new favourites. I hope to meet with lots of food and wine lovers over the two days too.”

– Colin Fassnidge

Colin is joined by comedian and TV Presenter Ben Hurley who is hosting the event’s Main Stage with a line-up of wine gurus and entertainers who will appear to share their favourite wines.

Main stage entertainment is included in your Winetopia ticket and across the two days you can hear from the likes of Master of Wine Bob Campbell and acclaimed chef Ben Bayly, Cuisine wine writer Mary Therese-Blair.

Winetopia, a part of Elemental AKL, has always offered visitors a deep dive into the very best of the New Zealand wine scene, with a collection of wineries from right across the country showcasing Albarino to Syrah and everything in between. With over 50 wineries attending there is something for everyone whether that be trying new releases from prestige brands like Craggy Range, Rippon and Cloudy Bay or discovering small boutiques like Mawhitipana Ridge, Pisa Range and Deep Down.

This year the events will also feature a new exhibit “Wine Art with CCL Label” with designs from some of New Zealand’s more striking wines displayed in large format at the event to unpack the story behind the wines. The exhibit features winery artworks from all over the country and takes the visitor into the minds of our wine making teams.

In the Gaggenau Sommelier Sessions you can get up close and personal with chefs and sommeliers collaborating in food demonstrations and wine pairings. This is an intimate and highly sought after experience at the event and this year the luxury kitchen set up will feature chefs Colin Fassnidge, Des Harris, Tim Reid and sommeliers Joe Wong, Candice Chow and Jeremy Ellis.

Winetopia Auckland, this year part of Elemental AKL, has a new venue, the Viaduct Event Centre, and a new feature of pop-up Auckland restaurants serving their signature dishes. This allows for more people than ever before to explore the best of our wine and food scene during the city’s winter festival.

The restaurant line-up represents a new-wave in the Auckland culinary scene. This includes Bar Magda from Cross St, Taco Teca (from the team behind La Fuente) and Gochu of Commercial Bay. With dishes like Duo Eatery’s Crispy Eggplant with ndjua and buffalo curd for $10 or Duck Frites - duck breasts rolled with duck leg sausage served with duck fat and pecorino fries, you’ll want to arrive hungry.

Other new additions to the programme include a Māori wine and food experience “Ngā hua a te whenua - A gift from the land with Tohu” and an exploration of Auckland wineries being led by Mermaid Therese-Blair (AKA Mermaid Mary) on the Friday evening.

Winetopia is about celebrating excellence – the best wine the best food and the best entertainment. This year that includes live music by Love Square which will on Friday also feature Nick Atkinson (of Supergroove and Hopetoun Brown fame) plus Finn Scholes on trumpet, Alistair Deverick on drums and Synthony’s Lewis McCallum playing sax on the Saturday sessions.

Each New Zealand wine region is represented at the events and all wines can be considered premium. The optional Golden Coins even offer a chance to try bottles of wine that retail for over $100 per bottle and have achieved top marks by reviewers (96+).

Tickets start at just $49 including a Spiegelau glass to take home, five tasting tokens and all the action on the Main Stage. Full line-up information for each city is available at www.winetopia.co.nz

Colin Fassnidge starring at Winetopia

N0. 1 Family Estate at Winetopia

Duo Eatery’s Crispy Eggplant with ndjua and buffalo curd

PHIL PARKER: GOOD FRIENDS, WINE AND WINTER FOOD BECKON

Okay – here we go folks. Winter is upon us and, as I write, the outdoor temperatures are hovering around 12C and we have intermittent grey, gloomy wet days interspersed with winter sun and blue skies. But, hey – wine! Good friends and winter food beckon. Cheers.

Giesen ‘The August’ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 - $40

Oak barrel fermented and lees aged, this is a crisp and elegant take on Marlborough sav. Medium acids and a deceptive 13% alcohol. Subtle flavours of fresh blackcurrant, gooseberry, green tomato and a hint of fresh cut herbs. Available: glengarrywines.co.nz

Bogle Clarksburg Chenin Blanc 2021 - $30

Another winner from California’s Bogle label. Flavours of spiced apple crumble, pink guava, clover honey, fresh cut pineapple and poached pear. Kind of like a muscular Vouvray chenin blanc. Tangy and complex.

Available: Dhall & Nash, Pt Chev Organic Wines, blackmarket.co.nz

Clayvin Single Vineyard Marlborough Chardonnay 2017 - $53

Elegant and suitably mature as a six-year-old chardonnay. Medium bodied, biscuity and creamy, with toasted almond, grapefruit, lemon citrus and ripe nectarine. Crisp dry, lengthy, yeasty finish. Available: Glengarry, Caro’s, finewinedelivery.co.nz

Francis Coppola Sofia Monterey County Rosé 2020 - $45

Lightly blush pink in an elegant bottle. Restrained nose with a hint of toffee apple, but opens up with delicate raspberry coulis, strawberry and layers of red berry fruits in a bone-dry style. Available: Dhall & Nash, Fine O Wine stores, blackmarket.co.nz

Clayvin Single Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Noir 2019 - $57

A premium Giesen brand from low-cropping vines. Soft and savoury, medium bodied style. Tamarillo, black cherry, plum and earthy savoury mushroom with a dash of smoky lapsang souchong tea. Available: Caro’s, thegoodwine.co.nz

Ara Resolute Organic Marlborough Pinot Noir 2021 - $35

Vegan and BioGro certified. Lean and elegant. Savoury dominant and dry, with soy and mushroom. Cranberry fruit and liquorice, plum and cigar.

Available: www.arawines.co.nz

Bogle Clarksburg Pinot Noir 2021 - $29

Medium bodied in classic Burgundian style. Dark berries, mocha coffee notes, with a nudge of umami savoury. Medium acids and tannins. Dry finish.

Available: Dhall & Nash, Pt Chev Organic Wines, Fine O Wines, blackmarket.co.nz

Giesen Ridge Block Single Vineyard Marlborough Pinot Noir 2017 - $56

Multi-awarded. Simply gorgeous. Classic Burgundian, medium bodied style. Ripe, fruity and generous. Hints of cigar, spiced plum, ripe black cherry, black tea, mocha and boysenberry. Available: giesen.co.nz

Francis Coppola Director’s Cut Dry Creek Valley Sonoma

Zinfandel 2019 - $56

Big, bold and fabulous. What one would expect from a Californian zinfandel. Especially from the director of The Godfather. Intense cassis, spiced plum, ripe black cherry, dark chocolate, fruitcake, stewed prune and a lengthy tannic finish. 15.5% alcohol.

Available: Dhall & Nash, regionalwines.co.nz

Francis Coppola Director’s Cut Alexander Valley Sonoma

Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 - $56

Full-bodied and ripe at 14.5%. Typical cab flavours of cassis, black olive, juicy black summer berry fruits, Ghana dark chocolate and plum pudding. Lengthy, dusty tannic finish. Available: Dhall & Nash. (PHIL PARKER)  PN

www.finewinetours.co.nz, phil.parker@xtra.co.nz

www.finewinetours.co.nz

Your host, Phil Parker wine writer. Affordable tours for small and large groups.

WALKING UP RUE DE CHAMPAGNE TO POL ROGER

Pol Roger is an historic family owned house established in 1849. Visiting in April this year was amazing and reminded me of the impressive quality of these wines. It was an incredible visit, the nod to history clear as well as capturing innovation and change with both hands.

The Champagne House of Pol Roger is located in the centre of Epernay on the aptly named Rue de Champagne, the offices accessible from Rue de Winston Churchill. As you meander up Rue de Champagne, you quickly become lost in thought as the many famous names of the region line this prestigious street. What’s unusual when it comes to Pol Roger is that their winery and cellars are located off Rue de Champagne. With special permissions enabling them to open the doors, receive grapes and craft their wine all in situ on Rue de Champagne. Whilst many sizable producers are moving to buildings outside the historic areas in Champagne for the majority of their business, Pol Roger has taken quite the opposite approach.

Investing and already a good way into an impressive project, has seen them build an exceptionally impressive winery and facilities. This will see this family property well positioned into the future and sees the house continue to vinify and age their wines in the traditional caves. Whilst excavating to build the new facilities, they uncovered bottles from the years 1887 to 1897 that were intact. In 1900 a number of walls of the original building in Epernay had collapsed causing the cellar and two buildings to fall over. At the time, over 1.5 million bottles were lost with efforts to recover them and the cellars unsuccessful. On opening one of these bottles, the characters of the wine at this age were a delightful surprise for the team at Pol Roger.

The cellars at Pol Roger cover 8km and sit 100ft underground. The depth and cool constant temperatures are two of the characters that give Pol Roger its impressive richness and complexity. Pol Roger is one of the few Champagne houses to continue to riddle their bottles by hand. Riddling is the process of slowly turning the bottles, moving the dead yeast cells (lees) to the neck of the bottle ready for disgorgement. There are four full-time riddlers who make it look a lot easier than it is. With a production circa 2 million bottles, each riddler will turn 50,000 bottles a day, with five years of training required before they start. An impressive commitment to quality.

In the Champagne region, whilst Grower Champagne producers own their small holdings, it is unusual for the Grand Marque houses to own a large proportion of their vineyards. Pol Roger has over 50% of vineyards under their ownership. With all grapes sourced from predominately 1er Cru and Grand Cru vineyards that adhere to their very strict guidelines.

As Glengarry celebrates all things French this month, this includes Champagne and the wines of Pol Roger. The brut non-vintage is a blend of the three main varieties in equal proportions, pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay. Christian Pol Roger used to say that the quality of a house stands or falls on that of its non-vintage. One glass of Pol Roger non-vintage ensures the impressive quality of the whole house of Pol Roger. (LIZ WHEADON)  PN

www.glengarrywines.co.nz

SECOND TIME WINNER AT VEGAN SAUSAGE AWARDS

The fifth annual Vegan Sausage Awards took place last month and a new category of plant-based meat alternatives were added to the usual sausage categories.

It is a delight to be able to increase the Sausage Award categories and showcase the many delicious plant-based pastrami and other deli meats made here in Aotearoa.

The Supreme Winner once again was Plan*t, but this time with their incredible Spicy Chorizo. The judges agreed it had a “good casing, the outside was crispy, whilst the inside was soft and juicy. Good fat content.”

Sausage and deli meat alternative makers from all over New Zealand entered this year’s awards, and the judges had a monumental task of choosing the best bangers and delicious deli plant meats.

Jasbir ‘Jazz' Kaur, multi-award-winning executive chef and trainer, creator of the new series 'Ignite the Chef in You' and President of the NZ Chef Association Auckland, worked with Plabita Florence, owner and chef of Forest, one of only two vegetarian restaurants in the country to receive a hat at the Cuisine Good Food Awards 2022.

She was also named Evolving Woman in Food for 2023. The final chef judge was Fred Wong, who has worked all over the world, from 3-star Michelin restaurants right down to street food vending. They were joined by celebrity judge, vegan comedian Tom Sainsbury who has learned a great deal about what to look for in a sausage from his previous judging duties.

“I may not be the best at describing umami and sausage casings but I’m very excited to be giving my opinion,” said Sainsbury, before the judging.

“Vegan sausages are here to stay. They are healthier for you, better for the environment and are a more compassionate way of eating, whilst still enjoying your favourite foods.”

Vegan Society spokesperson Claire Insley said, “With over 8 billion people and rising, the move towards a plant-based economy is ever more pressing. Plant-based sausages are a fun and easy way to look after our planet and our health.”

The trend for plant-based foods is continuing and likely to do so for the foreseeable future, as noted in this recent report www.futuremarketinsights.com/blogs/plant-based-food

The Vegan Society Awards work to reflect the variety and choice available in the plant-based world here in Aotearoa. vegansociety.org.nz

The judges: Jasbir “Jazz” Kaur, Tom Sainsbury, Freg Wong & Plabita Florence

BEACHSIDE DINING NEVER LOOKED BETTER

ROSS THORBY: AFTER ALL, THERE WERE EX-CANNIBALS – WHAT COULD GO WRONG?

And finally there was land. We had to miss Samoa and Tonga, but more about that in another column.

We had sailed on from the Hawaiian Islands, making it in record time. Finally, we had docked in the hastily organised bonus port of Lautoka. We sailed along a coast of lucious forest with very little in the way of buildings or landmarks other than a huge mountain towering high above the skyline.

An organised ship excursion had caught my eye – ziplining, with the added bonus that it was situated on a mountain owned by ‘ex-cannibals'. This harkened back to when speed and danger were the ingredients of any good excursion for me so why not? After all, there were cannibals and, as I have often said, “what could go wrong?”

There was a party of eight of us, quickly uniting to admire the courage of ‘Judy' who was, until yesterday, seen around the ship in a wheelchair. Today she sported only a walking stick and Nikes. It amazes me the risks some of my comrades will take well away from the careful eyes of their minders. How she figured she was going to climb a sacred mountain was anyone’s guess.

A two hour bus ride along unpaved roads and we were at the village of Tau, occupied by the descendants of the fierce Navatua tribe who once ruled the area and used the caves at the mountain’s peak for despatching their enemies on what was called the 'Killing Stone’. So it was with some trepidation we were delivered into the hands of the tribesmen and given a rudimentary lesson in ziplining before we began our trek up the mountain’s slippery steps.

Judy, our game and adventurous octogenarian, promising a hearty tip, had garnered the services of two strapping Fijians keen to carry her up, although what they planned to do once we had reached the top, we did not know.

Climbing up through the rainforest, we could hear the highpitched scream of wheels on wire mixed with inhuman shrieks making us look at each other in horror. And then, it was our turn. We had reached our first stage, straddled into a harness and, without ceremony, pushed off into the abyss. It didn't take long for us (me) to join the chorus of screams as feet and body brushed against the tops of mountainous trees, streams and waterfalls slipping below in a blur of color and exhilaration.

It was almost a relief that the cannibal caves were closed to us kaivalagi (white people) due to flooding deep within and would keep its secret of the 'Killing Stone' for another time.

On one of the longest zips we were warned not to brake as we could be stuck in the middle of the run and have to be rescued. Braking wasn't a problem. I had gotten hooked on

the speed that the zips could reach along the wires, but Judy, who had left her two minders (all brawn and lava lava) back at the station, did decide to brake. She stopped in the middle of the line and was left hanging, impotent and dangling, over the canopy of the forest.

I, of course, was behind her and bearing down fast. I had no way of avoiding her; the look of panic in her eyes and noiseless scream were palpable as we both imagined being trapped in a human Newton pendulum, forever more bouncing back and forth into eternity. With no choice but to brake, I managed to stop just in time, but then, of course, we were both stuck.

‘Setu', who stood on the tower shaking his head and presumably muttering some unmentionable Fijian words, sent the boys down the tower to prepare for rescue. How? I had no idea, but I wasn’t waiting to find out. There was nothing for it but to let go of my safety harness and pull us both, hand-overhand, along the 200-odd metres back to safety.

I made sure that I rode before her after that.

We arrived exhausted but exhilarated at the bottom of the mountain. No-one was more thrilled than our adventurous Judy, hand delivered by her strapping escorts looking very pleased with themselves after receiving a sizable tip.

Following a final headcount to ensure no-one was ‘retained' for a 'Killing Stone' ceremony, we returned to the ship by more conventional means, safe in the knowledge that even though Fiji is in our own back yard and oft visited by us, there are still hidden surprises to discover together with the odd ex-cannibal. (ROSS THORBY)  PN

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

1. Whisper Juniper Dress by PQ now $79

2. Annie Dress by Lemon Tree now $139

3. Tyra Shirt by Lemon Tree now $89

4. Nicole Maxi Dress by Dani Marie now $149

5. Elbow Slv Side Zipper Knit by Marco Polo now $129

6. Debbie Rain Coat by Moke now $169

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HELENE RAVLICH:

A WINTER OF BEAUTY AND WELLNESS

Winter for many is a season of cocooning, of looking inwards and listening to what your body needs after what has felt like a rollercoaster start to the year.

It’s also the perfect time to take a few extra moments for yourself, and the neighbourhood has more than a few incredible beauty and wellness destinations in which to commit to exactly that.

Acupuncture (and more) at The Health Clinic

One of the inner central’s best kept secrets, The Health Clinic in Grey Lynn is where you’ll find the incredible Stephen Parsons treating patients with a variety of traditional Chinese medicine modalities to address all manner of concerns. A truly intuitive and compassionate practitioner, Stephen graduated from The New Zealand School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (NZSATCM) with a Bachelors Degree of Applied Science (Acupuncture) and a Diploma in Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) and has been in clinic since 2015.

Stephen also graduated from Wellpark College with a certificate in relaxation massage (Swedish) and has an interest in musculoskeletal conditions along with a strong interest in internal medicine and woman’s health. He takes a truly bespoke approach to each and every person who passes through his doors – the array of treatments working to adjust and maintain your qì in a dynamic and healthy state. Acupuncture does this from the outside, using a combination of needles and moxa, while Chinese herbal medicine works on the inside, using specially prepared herbs. I always feel like I’m walking on air when I leave after time spent with Stephen, and already planning my next visit back. www.thehealthclinic.co.nz

Massage at Victorian Bali Spa

After five years working at Spring Spa locations around New Zealand, senior therapist Loli felt it was time to spread her wings and open her own little slice of blissful Bali in Freemans Bay. Based out of a boutique space in historic Victoria Park Market, Loli’s specialty is massage of all kinds, including deep

tissue, hot stone and traditional Balinese, which is the closest you’ll get to the picturesque island without having to leave Auckland. Her reflexology skills are also exceptional and the perfect anecdote for the mid-winter blues. www.victorianspas.com

Clinic 1 Aesthetics for MOXI laser

One of the first clinics in New Zealand to offer BBL BroadBand Light treatment, Clinic 1 Aesthetics on College Hill is unabashedly chic, constantly innovating and the therapists amongst the best in the country. I love BBL for its great results in terms of overall skin rejuvenation, dealing with my rosacea/ redness and generally bringing back my skin’s ‘bounce’, and so returned a few weeks later to try what the team calls the 'new kid on the block' – MOXI™ laser from Sciton™. A gentle yet extremely effective, non-ablative laser that works for all skin types all year around, MOXI is a veritable game changer for addressing the signs of premature ageing, skin texture and pigmentation – including melasma – without the downtime often associated with more aggressive laser procedures.

I am often asked by people what they can do to address their melasma, and the answer isn’t always one they want to hear. Now, with MOXI, that changes dramatically. Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that is known to be incredibly hard to treat. It looks like blotchy, brownish spots mostly on the face, and it’s most common in women and darker skin types. UV radiation, pregnancy, contraceptive pills, hormonal imbalance are all things that can cause melasma, and until MOXI, laser treatments could actually make the condition worse as lasers produce a lot of heat and melasma can be triggered by it. The gentle MOXI is breaking boundaries for melasma sufferers, making healthy, glowing skin accessible to everyone. www.clinic1.co.nz

Check in on your health at the BePure Clinic

A regular 'tune-up' with a naturopath is always a great idea if you like to take supplements, ensuring you’re on the right path and taking the correct combination for what your body might be dealing with at that time. For example: the line-up that works when you’re fighting off a cold won’t necessarily be the solution when you’re addressing sleep issues, and vice versa. My goto is the BePure Clinic in Ponsonby Central, where science underpins every measure the team takes to help revitalise your body’s baseline wellness, essentially giving you back the essential energy you need to feel at your best. You can book in for a one-off 75-minute consultation to address a particular health challenge, or go on the clinic' Essentials Programme of monthly 45-minute consultations with a focus on baseline health, making dietary and lifestyle changes as well as learning which supplements are right for you.

Either way, you’ll leave illuminated and educated with the tools you need to keep your health on track.

www.bepure.co.nz

The

A 30-minute treatment that can make a real difference to your skin – especially a few days before an event – Caci’s brand new Laser Facial combines a chemical peel and the benefits of thermal laser used at a lower level to stimulate the skin’s own responses. A simple but super effective treatment, the Laser Facial delivers a deep cleanse and exfoliation to stimulate skin cell turnover, plus triggers the skin’s natural healing function for an overall reset. Both the peel and laser steps in the treatment are gentle and non invasive, with just a

little tingling and some warmth felt that is perfectly normal and constantly monitored by your therapist. With no downtime, the treatment is great for most skin types, and leaves you with gorgeously glowy, just-back-from-holiday skin even in the dead of winter.

www.caci.co.nz

At home pampering with The Spa Nomad

The Spa Nomad New Zealand describes itself as a mobile beauty services company, but really it’s so much more. It brings beauty and wellness right to your door exactly when it’s needed, making it a life-changer for busy people and those looking to celebrate and pamper as a group without having to juggle fitting it with the times available at a spa. The business was founded by New Zealand businesswoman and beauty obsessive Kristen Teo, and she says it was born from “a passion for providing affordable, accessible and effective beauty solutions. We see skincare as more than just pampering and relaxation,” she says, with an emphasis on wellness, health and self-care.

Having tried an extensive range of facial and massage services from all over, Kristen realised what was missing from beauty and wellness salons in New Zealand was the element of convenience and accessibility – which is precisely what The Spa Nomad offers. In this fast-paced world, it is becoming increasingly difficult for people to set aside time in their busy schedules for regular trips to beauty clinics or their favourite massage destination, so she set about bringing them to you.

www.thespanomad.nz

(HELENE RAVLICH)  PN

Laser Facial at Caci

HOW TO SIMPLIFY PLASTIC FREE JULY

This year, our friends at ecostore are making reducing plastic waste easier than ever.

Since it’s Plastic Free July and we’re all being asked to reduce or even eliminate plastic from our day-to-day lives, we thought we’d share some ways to reduce your plastic consumption for good.

Laundry concentrates

Choosing a concentrated laundry liquid means less product and less packaging. Using 55% less plastic and water, in a fully recyclable and reusable pump bottle, ecostore’s 3x Laundry Liquid does its magic with just three pumps required for a standard load. And because there’s enough for 40 laundry loads in every 480ml bottle, it’ll take up a lot less shelf space too.

Hair care bars

If you haven’t yet noticed that shampoo and conditioner now comes in bars, where have you been hiding? With a variety of different hair care bars for different hair types, ecostore can help your locks stay luscious the plastic-free way. As you’d expect, they’re plant and mineral-based so you can also rest assured they’re safer for you as well as your world.

Soap bars

The humble soap bar is having a comeback. Goodbye little plastic pump bottles. Hello rich lathers, nourishing formulations and beautiful fragrances that leave your skin clean and soft (don’t forget the block dock to keep your soap fresh too). You can see ecostore’s wide range of soap bars online but we highly recommend smelling it in their shop.

Reuse and refill

Did you know that you can take your ecostore empties to their Freemans Bay shop and get them refilled? Or you can buy in bulk and refill your bottles at home. However you choose to reuse your bottles, it makes a lot more environmental sense than throwing them out and starting again.

Plastic return

The most sustainable companies take responsibility for their own plastic waste. You can drop all your empty ecostore bottles back into their flagship store in Freemans Bay (or other bottle drop stations around the neighbourhood) and they will take them away, grind them down and turn them into brand new bottles.

To find out more about ecostore’s range and how it can help you smash #PlasticFreeJuly, visit them at www.ecostore.com or in their Freemans Bay store at 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477.

STEPHEN PARSONS: HEALTH QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

I have been getting recurring headaches, my GP says it's due to stress. Can acupuncture help with this?

Headaches are horrible things. Having once been a sufferer myself of migraines, I feel your pain. Again, without sounding biased, yes, acupuncture is fantastic for treating headaches, migraines and/or cluster headaches (that’s how I have treated my own previous history of headaches). Tension headaches are the most common in the world with some reports saying that two in three people will/do suffer from tension headaches on a regular basis.

In Chinese medicine, we view headaches slightly differently to Western medicine. Often, with tension headaches it can be due to the liver (Chinese medicine liver). This is the emotional organ of the body, the organ that generally is responsible for people waking between 1am – 3am and thinking about work or other stressors. When the liver qi stagnates it often presents in the upper thoracic/neck region of the body. When the qi stagnates and obstructs the natural flow of the qi through the meridians, we often see headaches starting at the base of the skull and more often than not radiating up to the forehead. Quite a typical presentation in clinic of a tension headache.

Will treatment hurt, and where will the needles be?

I always get asked this question. With the needles, we use single-use sterile needles that are very fine. Often patients can’t feel the insertion as this is quick; occasionally there can be a slight prick, especially in the hands or feet as the skin is more sensitive. Other than that, we look for a dull, heavy, achy feeling. This for an acupuncturist is a good thing as it means we have elicited qi or activated the point/channel.

In Chinese medicine there are easily over 20 types of patterns (or diagnoses) for headaches. So depending on the quality of the pain, location, onset, what gives the patient relief helps us to diagnose and this then in effect determines which points we use. Quite often though, with the typical tension headache we will choose local points around the head/neck, shoulder, feet and hands. I also like to finish a headache treatment with cupping. If the patient is carrying extensive tension in their shoulders, this also helps to break up that tension and allow qi and blood to move more freely.

How quick will I see results with acupuncture and is this a long-term treatment protocol?

This really depends on the patient and how they are presenting. I had a patient come to me in her first trimester of pregnancy with severe recurring headaches, after one treatment they stopped. Other patients will need a few treatments, so it really does depend on your lifestyle and medical history. Another thing worth mentioning is lifestyle and diet. Sometimes by simply increasing water intake, eating more regular meals (or excluding some trigger type foods), increasing exercise (especially for tension type headaches) collectively with needles, we can achieve fantastic results. Seeing as I am also a huge advocate for Chinese herbs, there is the option to explore herbal medicine as well to help support the needles and over all treatment.

Summary: So, yes, I believe I can help with headaches and with tremendous results. If headaches are recurring, it can be the most debilitating thing, so I would suggest you come in for a consult and we can review what your headache ‘picture’ looks like and work out a plan to give you some piece of mind (literally).

BOWEL SCREENING CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE

Last month, June was Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, and it's a timely reminder about the importance of bowel screening.

New Zealand has one of the world's highest rates of bowel cancer, which claims over 1200 lives a year. Bowel Screening aims to save lives by finding bowel cancer at an early stage when it can often be successfully treated. Without screening, people can be unaware that they have bowel cancer, as there may be no symptoms until the disease is more advanced.

Since the programme’s launch in Central Auckland, in 2020, over 100 cancer cases have been detected, with more than 50% diagnosed at stage 1, which means a significant increase in survival rate. International studies show that the five-year survival rate for stage 1 bowel cancer is 91%.

Under the programme, men and women in Central Auckland aged 60 to 74 years who are eligible for publicly funded health care are invited for screening every two years. The simple test that is done at home detects minute traces of blood in a person's faeces, which can be an early warning sign of bowel cancer and an indication that further investigation is required.

"It's encouraging to report that our participation rates for the Central Auckland programme have improved in 2023, overall and specifically for our Māori and Pacific whānau. Māori participation in Central Auckland now matches the average for

Aotearoa New Zealand, and participation for Pacific people is higher than the national average." Says Rachael Bergman, Gastroenterologist and Clinical Lead Te Toka Tumai,** Auckland Bowel Screening.

Ben, an Aucklander who personally experienced the benefits of early detection through screening, is now a committed advocate for bowel screening. Despite experiencing abdominal pains for years, Ben never thought to get them checked out. He was encouraged by his wife to do the test. A positive result and subsequent colonoscopy revealed a cancerous polyp, leading to life-saving surgery. Ben is now enjoying precious time with his family and passionately urges anyone who receives the test kit as part of the National Bowel Screening Programme to do it.

"It was a life-changing experience for me, and I'm much healthier," says Ben.

As we look forward to celebrating Matariki in July, it's an excellent time to reflect on how we promote happiness, health and well-being not just for ourselves but for all. Doing your test when it comes in the post and encouraging others to do the same could be a positive start.

For more information, go to timetobowelscreen.nz, call your doctor or Free Phone 0800 924 432.

** Te Toka Tumai Auckland previously Auckland District Health Board (ADHB)

Talk to us about bowel screening

The National Bowel Programme is free for people aged 60-74 and they are automatically sent a test kit to do at home, every two years. It aims to save lives by finding bowel cancer at an early stage when it can often be successfully treated.

If you have any questions or need help understanding how to use the kit – call one of the team or alternatively call 0800 924 432 or use the QR code for more language options.

Our Auckland Bowel Screening Team

to answer your questions:

Kia Ora, Tālofa lava, Mālō lelei, Kia Orāna, Talofa, Mālo ni, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Ni sa Bula, Noa’la, Mauri, Namaste, Ni hāo!

LUCY KENNEDY: JULY BOOK REVIEW

Gone Girl - Gillian Flynn - 15+

“What are you thinking? How are you feeling? Who are you? What have we done to each other? What will we do?”

I recently had my first round of NCEA examinations, which essentially consisted of me stumbling from room to room in an stress-induced stupor, history flashcards and English exemplars in hand. I truly believe that the thing that got me through this anxiety-riddled week was Gillian Flynn’s 2012 novel Gone Girl. My copy of this book was the first thing I picked up in the morning to take my mind off the strained silence of the exam hall to come, and the last thing I put down at night. It came with me to all of my exams and, as well as being a crutch to lean on, it was equipped with an engaging, gripping plot and wonderful writing. Despite already seeing the film, the cunning twists and turns of the novel still kept me entertained.

The book begins when Nick Dunne returns from work one day to find his wife Amy missing and the house in disarray. Upon being called, the police quickly turn to Nick as their prime suspect, and from here the hunt to find Amy and validate Nick’s innocence ensues. With blunt writing that often says exactly what you are thinking, Gillian Flynn’s most famous book is a wonderful story of injustice, the pursuit for truth and the analysis of a complicated marriage. I fully recommend

THE POI ROOM

this novel to anyone in need of a good old-fashioned, fast paced thriller that won't let you quit until you have turned the final page.

continued from p33 New Ponsonby Store Opening Party, Friday 16 June

(LUCY KENNEDY)  PN  out of 5! instagram @lucykennedyreviews

Photography: Joanne Davies, The Poi Room

Artist Hikurangi Edwards with husband Gareth

Kate Wright, jeweller Hannah Sheehan and Clayton Smith

Ceramic artist Susan Christie and jeweller Beatrice Carlson

Melanie-Jane Smith

THE BEST START TO A BOY’S EDUCATION

The vision at King’s School is to develop the individual talents of each boy… for life.

Headmaster Tony Sissons believes children should be given the best possible chance to flourish. “Our goal is to ensure each boy who passes through our gates is given a solid foundation of learning, has a sense of self confidence and self belief, is motivated, flexible and resilient,” he says.

All classes at King’s School have a dedicated teacher and homeroom. Class sizes are kept small so that teachers can provide personalised attention and no one gets lost in the crowd. Tony is not a fan of the Modern Learning Environment model. His years in education have convinced him that children must feel secure and supported before they can learn effectively. Strong connections are the foundation of the King’s School learning programme.

Literacy and numeracy are the primary focus and there are extra teaching staff for these subjects at each year level. This ensures exceptional teacher:pupil ratios and allows staff to teach to the appropriate level for the development of individual boys.

King’s also offers a wide range of enrichment subjects to inspire and stimulate boys. Specialist teachers deliver music, drama, art, science, French, physical education, religious education and swimming programmes. Every child learns a musical instrument and there are a variety of cultural groups

and sports teams to join. Boys are encouraged to follow their passions and the school celebrates success and achievements across all disciplines.

Life at King’s School is very much geared for boys – with shorter lessons, more visual and tactile teaching methods, opportunities for students to be active and move around the school, and male mentoring and buddy programmes. All these strategies are backed by research on how boys learn best.

Manners and values are important at King’s and are integrated into every aspect of the school day. Boys are expected to live by the Golden Rule, 'Treat others the way you would like to be treated’.

Tony is committed to giving boys the best possible start to their education. “I am proud of my team and believe our programme provides boys with a strong foundation for the future by instilling a love of learning with values and integrity, while establishing friendships for life. A King’s School education is the best gift you could give your son.”

KING’S SCHOOL, 258 Remuera Road, Auckland 1050, T: 09 520 7770, www.kings.school.nz

LOGAN GRANGER:

FRINGE BENEFIT TAX (FBT)

Do you offer fringe benefits to your employees?

While we understand that Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) can, at times, be overwhelming, it's essential to get it right. Below is a brief overview we have put together to ensure that employers meet their FBT requirements to avoid late payment penalties and interest. 20 July 2023 is the due date for the next quarterly FBT return and for those that file FBT returns.

What is fringe benefits tax?

Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT), is a taxable non-cash benefit provided and enjoyed by an employee as a result of their employment relationship that is in addition to wages or salary. As an employer you may be liable for tax (FBT) on certain benefits provided to employees. The most common are:

· Motor vehicles provided by the business for the employees' private use.

Free, subsidized or discounted goods and services.

· Low-interest loans.

· Employer contributions to sickness, accident or death benefit funds, superannuation schemes.

When to file your FBT return:

As an employer, you are required to file your FBT return either quarterly, annually or by income year. Your choice will depend on the type of company you manage, whether you were an employer in the previous year, the benefits you provide and how much tax you pay.

FBT calculation methods:

There are three different types of FBT rates: singe rate, shortform alternate rate, and full alternate rate.

If you file an annual return, you can choose any of the three FBT rates and change rates from year-to-year. If you file quarterly, you can swap between FBT rates during the year. However, if you elect and pay FBT using the alternate rate in any of the first three quarters, you must complete the alternate rate calculation process in the fourth and final quarter.

For more in-depth information on how to calculate your fringe tax liability, please refer to the formulas provided by IRD in their FBT guide which can be found by visiting this link: www.ird.govt.nz/employing-staff/paying-staff/fringebenefit-tax

IRD Recent Updates – 2023 Budget

The Government has announced its Budget for 2023 last month which included three revenue measures:

· Raising the trustee tax rate from 33% to 39% to align it with the top personal income tax rate for the 2024-25 and later income years effective from 1 April 2024.

· From 1 July 2024, Government will make a three percent Kiwisaver contribution to recipients of Paid Parental Leave who make their own contribution of at least 3%.

The Budget also reflects an increase in revenue from imposing a tax on some large multinational enterprises operating in New Zealand.

For full details of all Budget announcements, see the Treasury website www.treasury.govt.nz

If you have any further questions or would like to discuss this matter, please do not hesitate to contact Logan Granger.

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.

Specia l i st t axation se rvic es .

Our team of dedicated tax specialists are focused on delivering practical, easy to understand advice for you and your business. With over 50 years of tax experience between them, including experience in the private sector, IRD investigations and public practice, our team is well equipped to handle any query you may have, or assist in resolving IRD matters. To review the full list of our Specialist Taxation Services visit: www.johnstonassociates.co.nz or call 09 361 6701 to speak with one of our Team.

Auckland | Tamahere | Gisborne | Blenheim | Nelson | Richmond

Ponsonby Office: Level 1 , One Jervois Road , Three Lamps

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, Level 1, One Jervois Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 361 6701, www.johnstonassociates.co.nz

TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS FROM $790,000

Come home to Eden Village.

Brand new apartments available now from $790,000.

Nestled in the heart of Mt Eden you’ll find the welcoming community of Eden Village.

Just a five minute drive to all the best parts of central Auckland, you can spend your time visiting popular eateries, parks and galleries and come home to the security of your modern apartment. With Mt Eden close by it’s easy to meet friends for a coffee at one of the local cafes or join family for a bush walk close by.

Our contemporary apartments feature designer kitchens, enclosed balconies and spacious open-plan layouts, perfect for regular visits from friends and family. Enjoy the lifestyle you love, as you always have and the team at Eden will take care of the rest.

Enjoy maintenance free living with everything on your doorstep at Eden.

Fixed weekly fee for life - Guaranteed.

To learn more, call Rachel on 0800 333 688 today.

MANN KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

We asked Andrew Mann, to tell us more about his business. Firstly, tell us the back story.

It's kind of ironic as I look back in history and my great grandad was a builder in the 1930s. He built a lot of villas around Herne Bay and Ponsonby and my grandmother lived in Herne Bay for years. So, there’s a connection to the area and I have always appreciated the history and vibe that the area still creates today.

I’ve always enjoyed the finishing side of building, so it was natural to move into cabinetry, kitchens and bathrooms as I got older. Attention to detail has always been in the family, as my brother and father are engineers.

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Normally a couple of cups of coffee. With the business, it’s about having a passion for design. Dreaming up a concept with a client, planning all the details and seeing the finish result is still a huge buzz for me.

What’s Mann Kitchens and Bathrooms' point of difference?

From being a director in a medium-sized company, this business comes with a lot of experience.

From building houses to installing kitchens. Seeing all the rights and wrongs in design over the last 30 years has been a priceless experience.

We aren’t trying to manufacture 10 kitchens a week. We keep our overheads down, which results in creating better pricing for the customer.

It's more of a personalised experience, with one port of call. So, all the details are managed resulting in happy customers. Please get in touch with any questions.

MANN KITCHENS & BATHROOMS, T: 021 644 784, E: mannkitchensnz@gmail.com

BLAIR HADDOW: TREND-DEFYING REAL ESTATE TSUNAMI SWAMPS LEADING TOP SALESMAN WITH NEW LISTINGS

Leading Greater Ponsonby real estate agent Blair Haddow is defying property industry norms and perceptions for June being the start of the ‘quiet’ winter season, by bringing an incredible six new properties to the market for sale in the space of just two weeks after returning from holiday in Mexico.

The winter period over June to August is traditionally associated by Kiwis as the calendar quarter where residential property sellers retrench from the market – preferring instead to wait until the buyer market thaws out in spring in the lead up to Christmas.

Not so for Blair Haddow, the busiest salesperson in the Bayleys Ponsonby office – both a brand and a branch which is renowned for servicing a sizeable market share of listing and selling homes in Auckland’s inner-west city suburbs.

Blair Haddow recently returned from a well-deserved vacation in the Baja Peninsula in Mexico, where he was warmly hosted as part of Bayleys Real Estate’s Top Achiever’s Trip rewarding the agency’s best performing salespeople for their outstanding sales achievements over the past financial year.

Since landing back in Ponsonby and the chills of an Auckland winter, Blair Haddow and his associates Vanya Ivanova and Keenin Whitcher have been spending long hours preparing marketing collateral to support the portfolio of new homes for sale in the area and launching them onto the market.

The suite of highly desirable residences Blair is now marketing for sale through Bayleys Ponsonby features:

1005/8 Hereford Street in Freemans Bay – a very chic three-bedroom, two-bathroom corner apartment on the 10th floor of the Hereford Residences tower, complete with two secure car parks and shared use of the location’s gym, infinity pool and library/games room.

18 Bayfield Road in Ponsonby – a totally remodelled and elegant four-bedroom, two-living, two-bathroom split level villa featuring a huge open plan living and entertaining area leading out to the private back deck and hedged garden.

· 5 Rawene Avenue in Westmere – a very rare 721-square metre block of bare, flat undeveloped land which comes complete with subdivision plans allowing for two substantial homes to be built on the site, or for a blank canvas location to accommodate a home of substance sitting one row back from the waterfront.

11D/8 Howe Street in Freemans Bay – a three-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-level penthouse apartment in the Highgate Tower, with stunning unobstructed views over the city immediately below, and the Waitematā Harbour beyond. The night vista from the apartment is beyond belief as it towers above the motorway junctions and other lowrise apartment blocks below – being so very handy to both the central city, and K’Road retail and hospitality precinct.

· 233 Jervois Road in Herne Bay – a gigantic six-bedroom, four-bathroom family bungalow home of some 490-square metres, offering a raft of room configurations and uses including work from home office space, complete with garaging for four cars, and an inground swimming pool at the rear.

· 18B Apirana Avenue in Glen Innes – a plush stylish threebedroom, two-bathroom ‘zen-like’ dwelling which has been modernised to create an urban oasis of peace and warm functionality.

All six of the homes can be viewed on the Bayleys Ponsonby website under Blair Haddow’s page. Blair said he was stunned at the unprecedented volume of June residential property listing activity he had returned to.

“This is the sort of frenetic listing activity we’d normally be expecting to experience in November or February, so to see this trend occurring in June really is ‘one out of the box’." It is testament to Blair's long-established profile and reputation for getting deals done around Greater Ponsonby.

“These six homes, along with others that I am marketing with asking prices, give purchasers a real selection of buying opportunities. In saying that, the styles, configurations and locations of each of these homes really do offer something different from the next. I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if all of them sell within a very short time frame.”

With many of Blair Haddow’s auctions coinciding with the distribution of the July edition of Ponsonby News, be sure to keep an eye out in the August edition for an update on the sales prices expected to be achieved from the bidding.

blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz www.facebook.com/BlairHaddowResidential

(BLAIR HADDOW)  PN

18 Bayfield Road, Ponsonby

11D/8 Howe Street, Freemans Bay

MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT

The winter collection of stunning fabrics from Lahood® encapsulates colour, boldness and vitality.

Lahood’s latest releases are dynamic and symbolic of adventure. These stunning decorative fabrics on display in the Lahood showroom are indicative of nature's colours. Tropical, intense and vibrant designs flourishing in a world obsessed with steel, grey and concrete.

Lahood endeavours to bring life and expression to a wet and windy winter.

Its latest displays from Christian Fischbacher embody the company’s vision to bring vibrance and natural beauty to our interiors. With their strong character, these fabrics invite us on a journey of adventure and excitement without having to pack our bags and get to the airport.

Kotori meaning 'happy little bird' features the crane, which symbolises a long and happy life and combines floral motifs such as the lotus flower, cherry blossom and pine branches.

Also displayed is Newtopia, an enchanting fabric featuring an avant-garde landscape. This incredibly detailed pattern shows a cleverly composed imaginary world with motifs borrowed from the digital archives of the Rijksmuseum and New York Public library.

If you want the best advice, service, and support available for your window furnishings and home design ideas, then contact Lahood® and see what their 40 years of experience means. From inspiration to installation, Lahood Window Furnishings do it all. lahood.co.nz

Christian Fischbacher design collection. Kotori is a 100% cotton fabric, with strong elements of birds and flowers inspired by Japanese symbols of good luck and prosperity.

Christian Fischbacher, Newtopia is a flight of fancy with shapes which blur as they are reflected on the surface of the water. A floorto-ceiling fabric which is printed using an environmentally friendly ink-jet process.

THINK TABLEWARE… THINK THE STUDIO OF TABLEWARE

Dedication to service, expert advice, beautiful complementary gift wrapping, combined with fantastic parking right outside the door, make The Studio of Tableware a most enjoyable shopping experience. Regarded as New Zealand’s leading tableware specialist, The Studio of Tableware offers you an unrivalled selection of dinnerware, glassware, giftware, kitchenware and cookware and NZ's largest range of quality stainless steel and silver cutlery. High quality and well designed products from renowned European brands.

STUDIO OF

THE

TABLEWARE, 5 Harold Street, Mt Eden, thestudio.co.nz NZ’s leading tableware & kitchenware specialist since

Riedel Fatto A Mano Curly Decanter

Cutipol Ebony Cutlery

Versace by Rosenthal La Medusa Studded Vase

Christofle Anemone Champagne Cooler

Spiegelau Gin & Tonic

Sambonet Vintage 1965 Cookware

Philippi Asgar Lantern

INTERNATIONAL ART CENTRE – IMPORTANT & RARE ART

Viewing daily from Tuesday 18 July.

Live Auction: 6pm Tuesday 25 July.

International Art Centre’s July auction includes an extraordinary offering of Contemporary and Historical works of National Interest.

One of the sale highlights includes one of the rarest historical works ever seen at auction: William Hodges' A Māori before a waterfall in Dusky Bay 1777. The Captain Cook-appointed artist painted several versions; the one being sold is the last of the versions being held in private hands and is expected to fetch between $800,000 - $1,200,000.

A major work by Charles F. Goldie is also a feature of the sale. The work depicting Pipi Haerehuka, an Arawa Chieftainess, originally purchased at the Royal Academy in London, is expected to sell between $1million and $1.5million.

Gretchen Albrecht’s large scale 1994 work titled N G Darkening will be offered alongside another work Golden Shadow, 1973, by this much celebrated New Zealand artist. A major work by Robert Ellis, Organisation of the City, owned by the same collector who purchased it in 1965, will be on offer along with a significant work by Karl Maughan titled Albert Park, also held in the same collection since it was painted.

Another highlight includes Don Binny’s Baptism After Piero: An Adaptation, 2003 – expected to fetch around $350,000 - $450,000, and a superb work by Stichbury which featured in last month’s issue of Ponsonby News. The work titled Edward Krebs carries an estimate of $75,000 - $95,000.

With so many amazing highlights and around 100 works of art, International Art Centre’s IMPORTANT & RARE ART auction being held on 25 July will likely be one of the best offerings to the market this year. Viewing commences on 18

July and runs daily at the International Art Centre ,202 Parnell Road, Auckland.

The live auction takes place at 6pm on Tuesday 25 July in the International Art Centre gallery on Parnell Road, but for those unable to be there, internet bidding can be facilitated by downloading the International Art Centre App on the App Store or Google play meaning you can view and participate in the auction remotely from anywhere.

International Art Centre also runs regular timed online auction on their app – this is a great way to buy art or participate in online auctions, especially for those on the go, overseas or at the beach.

A Māori before a waterfall in Dusky Bay 1777 by William Hodges

Memories Tearara, Goldie

THE POI ROOM’S NEW LOCATION

A fixture for many years in the eclectic streets around The Rialto in Newmarket, The Poi Room’s Gallery in Ponsonby has also made its mark, situated near The Shelter in Mackelvie Street since 2017.

Having now outgrown the space, a recent move to larger premises at 37 Ponsonby Road enabled an amalgamation of The Poi Room Gallery, offices and warehouse into one beautiful central hub.

The lower floor in the turn-of-the-century building has been refitted with soaring white gallery walls, now filled with a selection of work by exclusively Aotearoa New Zealand artists. Visitors to the gallery are welcomed into a bright, spacious setting to pore over original paintings, carved pounamu, sculpture, glass art, jewellery and prints, along with objects of function and beauty for the home.

Owners Melanie-Jane (Ngāti Porou) and Clayton Smith founded the business in 2007 on a desire to work together while sharing the unique work of artists in Aotearoa with the world. They wanted to make a positive difference to artists while creating more awareness of the calibre of work being produced locally.

The brand's essence is symbolised by its icon, the poi – always moving, changing direction when it needs to, but ultimately being something of beauty, strength and determination.

"We consider it a huge honour to showcase work that artists have poured their energy into," says Melanie-Jane. "We are the facilitators, passing these objects and art pieces into the hearts and arms of the new owner.”

Acknowledging the wairua (essence) of the new space was an important aspect of the opening celebrations at 37 Ponsonby Road in June. Scotty and Stacey Morrison performed a karakia (blessing) as friends, family and artists watched on. Already, the gallery is enjoying an influx of foot traffic and customers taking advantage of the easy access on Ponsonby Road, just down from Western Park. Street parking is available on Ponsonby Road and Hepburn Street, which has free 120-minute spots just a few metres past the corner.

"We're all super excited to be in our new space for the next chapter of The Poi Room Hikoi," says Clayton.

You can visit The Poi Room at 37 Ponsonby Road and at 17 Osborne Street, Newmarket from 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, 9.30am - 5pm on Saturdays and from 10am - 4pm on Sundays.

Alternatively, shop via thepoiroom.co.nz anytime. The online store allows pickups and offers delivery anywhere.

ONLINE (scan with your phone’s camera) & don’t forget

WINTER WARMERS AND THOUGHT PROVOKERS

Selected by Carole Beu from The Women’s Bookshop.

Everything is Beautiful and Everything Hurts

- Josie Shapiro - $37

This excellent debut novel won the Allen & Unwin Fiction Prize. Mickey is 5ft tall, dyslexic and knows she’s nothing special –until she discovers running. You run the Auckland Marathon with her all the way, willing her on and feeling inspired by her grit. Absolutely uplifting, it makes your heart race!

Demon Copperhead – Barbara Kingsolver - $28

Now in paperback, this latest novel by the brilliant Barbara Kingsolver has just won the international Women’s Prize for Fiction. Based on David Copperfield, it explores poverty and addiction in rural America rather than Dickensian London. Absorbing, at times disturbing, it is superbly written and ultimately hopeful. Demon is a wonderful character.

Horse – Geraldine Brooks - $28

Also now in paperback, this enthralling new novel from a stunning author is set-in two-time periods – the present,

with a young woman scientist from Australia, and the mid19th Century when the groom Jarret is still enslaved. Based on the true story of Lexington, the most famous racehorse in US history, this is a majestic, compassionate exploration of slavery. The relationship between Jarret and the horse is deeply moving.

Sure to Rise: The Edmonds Story – Peter Alsop, Kate Parsonson & Richard Wolfe - $60

What a delight! We grew up with the Edmond’s Baking Powder tin in the pantry and the Edmond’s Cookery Book on our mother’s kitchen bench. This gorgeous book, full of stunning photographs and illustrations, is a fascinating slice of New Zealand’s social and culinary history. Yum!

Man-Made: How the bias of the past is being built into the future – Tracey Spicer - $40

This award-winning journalist and broadcaster exposes the next frontier of feminism – how sexism, misogyny and bigotry is being built into our futures. Carefully researched and illuminating, this book exposes the biases and inequalities of new technology and AI. The detailed analysis is often funny but ultimately terrifying.

Pearl in a Whirl: How one fluffy cat braved the floods –Catherine Robertson & Fifi Colston - $21

Every copy sold of this delightful picture book will raise funds for the Cyclone Gabrielle recovery effort. Based on a true story (there are photos of the real cat at the back), the harsh reality of the floods is revealed but Pearl never loses her curious playfulness, and all is well in the end. Full of gorgeous illustrations and joy amidst adversity.

THE WOMEN’S BOOKSHOP, 105 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 4399, E: books@womensbookshop.co.nz

Shop online: www.womensbookshop.co.nz

WEEKLY DRAMA CLASSES WITH TIM BRAY YOUTH THEATRE

Term 3 Drama Classes for ages five to 16 begin the week starting Monday 17 July at TAPAC. These fun classes encourage creativity, imagination and collaboration as they prepare for their Term 3 performances.

“My daughter has LOVED her Tim Bray experience this term. I have been very impressed with the staff, and I know she has felt supported, cared for and very, very happy." Jo S., parent of TBYT student.

“(The drama class) pushes him outside of his normal comfort zone, helps him interact with his peers in different ways. And does so in a fun and supportive way.” Parent of TBYT student.

Classes are also offered on the North Shore.

Extraordinarily Creative drama classes in East Auckland and the North Shore are for autistic and neurodivergent children and teens that focus on the process of drama to allow students to grow and shine in their own time and space.

“My son really enjoys drama classes, and it is helping him to build confidence in his ability to socialise with others. He is learning to take turns, listen and work as a team, which are traits he finds very difficult with his severe ADHD and strong autistic traits.” J.R., parent of EC student.

Extraordinarily Creative needs community support to grow and keep classes affordable. Can you help with a donation towards the Mary Amoore Gift a Seat™ Scholarships for students of families in need?

Please visit: timbray.org.nz/support/#Gift

For more information: timbray.org.nz/youth-theatre

T: 09 486 2261

E: Youth.theatre@timbray.org.nz

250 GALLERY POP-UP

250 Gallery is a pop-up gallery featuring the works of Tina Frantzen and guest artists Gennie de Lange and Jane Thorne.

Tina has successfully exhibited at the Railway Street Gallery for several years and continues to do so as a member of the gallery’s collective. Her works are in several private art collections including that of James Wallace. In 2015 she was a finalist in the Wallace Art Awards. 250 Gallery provides the opportunity to show a retrospective of all her works including paintings, photography, charcoal drawings and books of her paintings.

In this exhibition, Tina will be showing works from her Ley Lines of Home series – photographs catching fleeting moments of light and place.

Quiet places

Jane strives to capture an idyllic view of reality through her work, creating pieces that are both whimsical and full of intricate details. Using the subject matter of insects, she explores the beauty of small, often overlooked details in nature. By including tiny pieces of history (wallpaper), Jane aims to bring alive memories and allow the viewer to engage and create their own meanings and stories.

She has a Bachelor of Visual Arts, has exhibited with many Auckland galleries and has work in private collections in Europe and New Zealand.

Jane Thorne: www.littleblackbugs.com

Vanishing pollinators

Gennie de Lange is a ceramic artist who has been painting with glazes for over 60 years, exhibiting in the USA, England, France, Switzerland as well New Zealand.

She is passionate about the environment.

Her exhibition includes limited editions of her framed prints of insects. These are from a small book of whimsical cartoons entitled A Grandmother's Protest. Also on sale.

Proceeds of all sales will be donated to Forest and Bird. Gennie de Lange is on Google and Twitter

Also happening in the gallery, are fun art sessions run by Tina on Wednesdays from 6pm - 8pm. There are performances by the very popular Auckland Playback Theatre group. The date of the next one is 7pm, Friday 7 July (gold coin koha). For more details about these, please contact Tina.

250 GALLERY, 250 Ponsonby Road, T: 0274 519 662, www.tinafrantzen.com tinafrantzen@gmail.com

Instagram: tinafrantzenartist and two.fiftygallery

UPTOWN ART SCENE

US artist Brice Marden said: each time you see a painting, it stays the same but you have changed. In a world where we always look for the latest novelty, art provides continuity.

I first met John Brown in the 1990s when he was part of Sturdee Street Studios in downtown Auckland, and later with Indicator Studios in Mount Eden. These were busy places, full of art production and famous art events that occurred once or twice a year – art exhibitions with plenty of emphasis on social discourse.

John has kept up a consistent practice over his thirty years of exhibiting; he was the recipient of the Kaipara Foundation residency in Solothurn, Switzerland in 2012, and the 2019 Molly Morpeth Canaday Award. He has been domiciled in Hawkes Bay for some time now, so it was a delight to catch up with him and his artwork at Melanie Roger Gallery in Karangahape Road last month.

Brown’s work references local histories, using events, people and places as a basis for developing his paintings. The subject of 'Mr Teviotdale' is a central pattern of sliced curves that resembles a cubist portrait of the eponymous ethnographer (1870-1958), who is responsible for much of our understanding of the moa and moa hunters of the preEuropean Otago region. Behind this abstract visage are stylised hills cut in sombre greens and blacks below a sky that shows the archaeology of paint layers.

John is firmly local in his content. “My current series of new paintings start informed by a source, and each painting evolves through the process of making: adding, erasing, over-painting and editing. Eventually, strong abstract representational associations evolve within the content of the paintings, which evokes a regional sense, both familiar and personal.”

The group exhibition features works by John Brown, Tom Mackie, who cleverly plays with object and image, and Richard Orjis, whose sprawling floral still-life spun pops of colour on a dense matte black background.

EVAN WOODRUFFE, Studio Art Supplies www.studioart.co.nz

John Brown at Melanie Roger

Mr Teviotdale by John Brown

Still Life from the Garden by Richard Orjis

BUSY TIMES FOR LUKE CROCKFORD

It’s been a very busy first quarter of the year in my business, proving that a local agent with a proven process remains your best chance of achieving a successful sale in this market.

The real estate industry by nature is a future paced environment – we are always working at least two months ahead of ourselves. This means if you’re thinking of making a move in spring, now is time to call me for a chat so I can turn those plans into action.

I was proud to be involved in a recent Pink Ribbon charity auction breakfast at the Longroom to support a good friend. It was great to catch up with some old friends for a really good cause.

Collectively, we raised $25,000 – an incredible result! I’d like to thank Julia Rust who did a fabulous job as auctioneer on the day with amazing skill involved and Peter Urlich who was MC on the day.

A shout out must also go to Andy and Richard, owners of the Longroom for their huge support. It was a great collective effort.

I was thrilled to be able to give back to our community and continue my support of Richmond Road School.

I am so proud of this school family; it is a close knit and supportive environment for kids to learn and grow and we are lucky to be a part of it. It’s been a real privilege to support this school for over seven years and watch it grow. Huge kudos to Principal Jackie and her incredible team of teachers and parents who work together to make it what it is.

I offer a full service business to help you, from experienced mortgage brokers to gardeners, painters and handymen. (LUKE CROCKFORD)  PN

E: luke.crockford@raywhite.com

T: 021 277 8565