PONSONBY NEWS - JUNE'17

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PUBLISHED FRIDAY 2 JUNE 2017

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JUNE 2017

THE BIG BIKE TRIP Three locals, Freddie Gillies, Arthur Gillies & Sean Wakely are riding their push bikes from Indonesia to London, raising money for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand

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DAW S O N & C O .

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH

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P40: Guests enjoyed a five-course lunch showcasing dishes from some of Ponsonby’s finest restaurants such as Cocoro, Prego, SPQR and Saan at the old Ponsonby Fire Station to celebrate the American Express ‘Live Local’ initiative; P59: Join locals Megan May (Little Bird), Lucy Vincent (Sans - beauty products) and yoga expert Nikki Ralston at a wellness and wellbeing weekend at the iconic Huka Lodge in Taupo.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FROM THE EDITOR DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD MIKE LEE, COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF COVER STORY - THE BIG BIKE TRIP JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

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U3A PONSONBY EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE FASHION + STYLE HAPPY, HEATHLY SUSTAINABLE LIVING JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH

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FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Jacqui Walker

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LETTERS + EMAILS

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

Well done Ponsonby News on your coverage of all things local I've been reading your publication for years. I've noticed ever more content covering important issues, with some great stories about the people, locales and events in our community. Several stories in April's issue resonated with me, such as the new Ponsonby Park design. It's great to know this well-needed community space is underway. I also 'caught wind' of the situation with 'Poo Harbour', as John Elliott calls it. I wholeheartedly agree with that term, the only time I find Cox’s Bay pleasant these days is when the tide is high, as this diffuses the smell. Page after page, you well and truly deliver on local content. No mean feat bringing all the local news every month!

H Deve, Westmere

Mike Lee’s column about the need for a rail link to the airport Your May issue keeps Ponsonby (as all issues do) flying high. I commend Mike Lee’s column about the need for a rail link to the airport. Mike is very much a lone voice in council in pursing this necessary infrastructure.

I used to quite like eggs benedict...

Auckland Transport - pedestrian upgrade project Could someone at your fine magazine check out what the council is doing installing 'lumps' or raised areas at the intersection of Ponsonby Road and Lincoln Street and now at Ponsonby Road and Mackelvie Street?

Since becoming a vegan I haven’t eaten it, but I don’t really miss it. I read Gary Steel's column in Ponsonby News asking for opinions on eggs. So here goes. I grew up a meat eater, I never cared about free-range or any of that, I guess because the information wasn’t available. Through the past six to seven years, my wife and I ensured that we only purchased free-range and organic meat and eggs. Paying premium prices to do so.

Around September 2015, I watched a couple of docos which made me turn vegetarian, in particular 'Food Inc'. My wife and I had been contemplating it for a while. It worked in conjunction with receiving the Revive Café cookbook, which showed me just how easy it is to make vegetarian meals, and showed me that I didn’t need to eat meat to enjoy my food. During this time I also stopped drinking cow’s milk in coffee.

While enjoying my new-found vegetarianisim, we ensured that we only purchased free -range eggs, and encouraged others to do so. During this period I watched a few more documentaries, namely ‘Cowspiracy' and 'Forks over Knives'. Watching these two films made me consider what I am eating in general and ask the question, “do I need to have animal products in my food?” I decided the answer was no, I don’t! Thus, in October 2016, I became a 'vegan', in the sense that I no longer eat any food that contains animal products.

Hopefully the airport rail link will become an election issue and rapid progress will be made so that we do become once again a most livable modern city. It is no secret that Wellington was rated by Deutsche Bank the best city in their recent global survey and Auckland failed to make the cut.

Gerry Hill, Ponsonby

I have not received a reply from my enquiry to the council.

Steve Elliston, by email FROM THE EDITOR: The Ponsonby Business Association tells us that the Pedestrian Upgrade Project is a Waitemata Local Board initiative, which has been funded by the WLB. All the information is on the Auckland Transport website - link below. https://at.govt.nz/projects-roadworks/ponsonby-road-pedestrian-improvements/

The reason I became a vegan originally wasn’t for the welfare of the animal, more for the health benefits. While adopting this lifestyle has made me look closer at everything I eat and consume, as you will know, it’s quite difficult to find food without animal products in one shape or form. Especially when you are on the go.

On a side note, while I have been living this way, I discovered Tart Bakery in Grey Lynn.

A completely plant-based bakery, it’s fantastic and has helped make my vegan experience much easier. photography: Martin Leach

I haven’t really addressed the egg question, and where I am going with this. This is more of the small background on myself.

While I was willing to pay more for 'free-range eggs', I have investigated, as I see you have, the legitimacy of the 'free-range claim'. Of course, the whole animal product industry is dreadful, so now I avoid it completely.

Since becoming a vegan, my stance on eggs is, why bother? And I have asked myself, why do we need them in food? What benefit do they add to the food, and why aren’t more people using alternatives? There are ways to substitute eggs in cooking that are sufficient, such as flax seed.

I used to quite like eggs benedict, since becoming a vegan I haven’t eaten it, but I don’t really miss it. I keep intending to try one of these egg replacement products, but they are difficult to get here, and very expensive, so I haven’t yet bought any.

Anyway, that’s all from me, and thanks for ‘listening'. I never really considered myself a 'militant vegan', but these days I am becoming more and more aware. My wife told me the other day to stop watching all of these documentaries as I will drive myself nuts.

I compared it to living in the matrix, and choosing to take the red pill!

Rene Vaughan, by email

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Lisa O'Connor, owner of Grato Cafe, Richmond Road

GRATO - NEW TO RICHMOND ROAD Nestled on Richmond Road in a cute strip of black and white-themed businesses is Grato - next to the Trelise Cooper Outlet store.

It's a humble cafe with Italian flare and a big heart. Meaning 'grateful', Grato serves cabinet favourites, Mamma’s meatballs or try something more exotic from the bruschetta menu; raspberry and vanilla ricotta with honey or lemon ricotta with a chilli fried egg, all while drinking the bold flavours of Allpress coffee. F PN GRATO, 104 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 6156, www.grato.co.nz

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FROM THE EDITOR ALMOST TWO YEARS AGO, PAUL WACKER BROUGHT ALONG TO A WAITEMATA LOCAL Board business meeting an enthusiastic gang of kids to share the idea of a pump track in Grey Lynn Park. The plan will reach fruition when it is officially open today, when this issue of PN hits the streets. We congratulate all concerned - P10.

The Grey Lynn Business Association recently produced a street party full of music and family friendly activities, including ping-pong at Pocket Bar & Kitchen’s pop-up playroom.

photography: John Elliott

As Jennifer Northover says, “Where else in Auckland can you pick up a bag of taro, enjoy a Papua New Guinean coffee, indulge in Korean inspired kimchi fries and down a local craft beer in a glass house?” - P12.

As we go to press with this issue, three locals Freddie and Arthur Gillies with Sean Wakely have left Grey Lynn on The Big Bike Trip setting off on a 15,000km cycle ride from Indonesia to London. They aim to raise $15,000 funds for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand in memory of the brothers’ much-loved Uncle John - P16.

Last month nurses in scrubs delivered a health funding petition on a stretcher to MP Nikki Kaye’s office on College Hill, Freemans Bay.

L to R: Joanne Barrett, Martin Leach, Jay Platt, Melissa Paynter and Gwynne Davenport

The petition urges restoring funding for healthcare services and was delivered in time for this month's budget. By the time this issue is published we will know the extent of funds allocated to health in this year’s budget - P28.

This issue’s special feature maintaining a healthy sustainable lifestyle includes a wellness and wellbeing weekend at the iconic Huka Lodge in Taupo. The event will be hosted by three well-known locals - Megan May (Little Bird), Lucy Vincent (Sans - beauty products) and yoga expert Nikki Ralston. Even though Huka Lodge is an expensive venue, the location right on the edge of the Waikato river is spectacular - a pristine natural environment - P59.

Western Springs College lost its recently retired long-time principal Ken Havill after a long illness. More than 700 people paid tribute to him at his funeral last month. He is pictured receiving the prestigious Woolf Fisher Award - P30.

Marilyn Hemming is a face many Grey Lynn mothers will recognise. She spent 20 of her 50 years with Plunket working in the Grey Lynn Community Centre. We wish her well in her retirement - P62.

Last month guests enjoyed a five-course lunch showcasing dishes from a selection of Ponsonby’s finest restaurants such as Cocoro, Prego, SPQR and Saan at the old Ponsonby Fire Station to celebrate the American Express ‘Live Local’ initiative.

Book lovers will enjoy browsing and buying secondhand books from Hayden Glass and Julie Fry who are the new owners of The Open Book on Ponsonby Road - P107.

(MARTIN LEACH) F PN

Auckland emergency nurse Hamish Hutchinson delivered a petition with 1296 signatures from the Auckland District Health Board (ADHB) region.

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW Michael Colonna, aka Walnut the Clown, reminisces about his time in Ponsonby and Grey Lynn.

Tell us about the area you live in.

Grey Lynn used to be a working class area with factories. I worked at UEB Paper Bags on Richmond Road which is now a cafe and a fitness centre. Next door was the Bond and Bond warehouse and over the road was the soap powder factory, now a supermarket. And right next door to me on the corner of Richmond and Sackville was the mattress factory with a loud machine churning out bed springs.

What's good about it now? Well, for a start it's a lot quieter. Even the Western Springs Speedway has been tamed. But the lions at the zoo; on a quiet night you can still hear them roar. It's like travelling to Africa without leaving home!

What was your childhood like?

Pretty normal. I spent a few years at boarding school but strangely enough never got bullied. I was usually the one who said, "Leave the poor bugger alone!" Not that I was a leader, just a wee bit eccentric, the one who played tuba in the school band or sat in the tall school hedge listening to jazz on my transistor radio. Kids tended to edge away from me.

Which TV series would you never miss and why?

I haven’t watched television for years. I watch movement on a screen sometimes; I get easily distracted. I go to the Pt Chevalier RSA and zombie out staring at the sports, none of which have rules that I understand.

Where would your dream international holiday be?

Back to Parma in Italy, where my grandfather's relatives live. Ah, the music, the food, the weather!

What job would you do other than your own?

I wouldn't mind a job that paid me enough to afford to pay off my Visa card. I think about it now and then but who would employ me.

I wouldn't!

How would you like to be remembered?

As a quite nice guy, who did very little harm and meant well.

Have you ever seen a ghost?

Not a ghost but I once filmed a face in the sky. I climbed a sacred hill and was astounded by the swallows circling overhead, hundreds of them. When I watched the video I was amazed to see in the clouds an ancient Maori face with tattoos. I uploaded it to YouTube but viewers wrote that I was stupid and they couldn't see anything so I took it down. Pearls before swine, I guess. Wanna see it?

Give your teenaged self some advice?

Grow up and get a life, you egg!

How do you chill out?

Reading and nana napping.

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Which item of clothing can't you live without?

Underpants! Go figure! You can even wear them on your head as a balaclava when it's really cold or use them as a towel when you go skinny dipping. Actually, many people think they are Speedo togs.

Tell us about your dream home?

That’s real easy - one that I can afford with a view of the sea.

What superpower do you wish you had?

The power to see into the future. I'd win all the lotteries and bet on all the races. And always be where the disasters aren't.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Um, come on now are you suggesting that I lack talent?

What cliché do you most hate?

"That's the way the cookie crumbles." I don't give up that easily.

Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person?

I'm both. I rarely hug gang members, real estate agents or rape victims. If I am in doubt, I say to them, "Consider yourself hugged."

That seems to do the job.

What is your comfort food?

Avocado and grapes.

Do you have a party trick?

I'm a children's party clown. I’ve got a million, which one do you want to see?

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

Control rents and house prices. People on fixed incomes are now living rough because rents are higher than their benefits and the government has sold all emergency housing. Free market forces have never worked for the underprivileged. Also I'd like to see the homeless have vagrancy licenses. No license, no footpath.

(DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) F PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

free parking behind the store on Colin Shaw Lane

77 Ponsonby Road

Top and centre: St Bathans brushed wool throw. Left: Mackenzie wool throws. Right: Bendigo wool blankets.

AUTUMN: EMBRACE THE SEASON With the cooler months upon us, it’s time to stay cosy in front of the fire wrapped in our range of handcrafted pure New Zealand woollen throws and blankets.

View the range at at our 77 Ponsonby Road store or online. We’ve also made staying cosy easy to share with our world wide shipping options.

NEW ZEALAND MADE. IN THE HEART OF PONSONBY.

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PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT

Community and local board collaborate to open awesome new asset Almost two years ago Paul Wacker brought along to a Waitemata Local Board business meeting an enthusiastic gang of kids to share the idea of a pump track in Grey Lynn Park.

Paul presented a proposal for an all-weather, continuous loop track with smooth mounds that is ridden without pedalling (the name 'pump track' comes from the pumping motion used by the rider's upper and lower body as they ride around the track to gain speed).

community and the kids of Auckland. Local riders will be able to easily and safely access the track along the new Grey Lynn Greenway due to be opened by Auckland Transport and Waitemata Local Board on 2 June.

Former Chair, Shale Chambers spotted an opportunity to use a new Council “community -led small build programme” for the first time. With officer support for a pump track located in the park, the board agreed to contribute $30,000 (20% of the total), cover consenting fees and take over the operational costs once open. Paul and Scott Kuegler took up the challenge of fund raising for the full amount, navigating council processes (not an easy task as trail blazers) and project managing the build.

A community day and official opening for the pump track is planned for later in the year when everyone involved can be officially thanked and a plaque unveiled to acknowledge all the generous benefactors. The track is an excellent example of what can be achieved in partnership with the local board through the community-led small build programme.

After a Herculean effort involving countless volunteer hours and community working bees, the pump track has now opened to BMXers, mountain bikers, skateboarders, scooters, skaters and riders of all ages. It was great to pop along on the first day the fence came down to hear the track declared “awesome”. The pump track is sure to be a big after-school draw card for fun, fitness and to practice riding skills.

Paul, Scott and all the pump track supporters, including board member Rob Thomas, should all feel very proud of what they’ve achieved. It is a wonderful asset for the

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Do you have ideas for projects and initiatives that the Waitemata Local Board could support and fund?

Now is the opportunity to give feedback on the draft Local Board Plan. The plan sets out the board’s priorities over the next three years.

There are a variety of ways to have your say on the Waitemata draft Local Board Plan; online, in person, by post, by email, via social media or at an event. Details on shapeauckland.co.nz. Feedback is due by 30 June. (PIPPA COOM) F PN Contact Pippa Coom, Chair of Waitamata Local Board: pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, www.facebook.com/waitemata

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Enjoying the pump track on the first weekend of opening; 1. Louie Gould, age 5; 2. Dylan Mandow, age 7; 3. Arlo Gould aged 6; and 4. Scott Kueglar with the first riders and skaters to try out the new pump track.

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LOCAL NEWS PONSONBY PARK UPDATE This month the Community-led Design group will participate in a workshop being held in conjunction with the Waitemata Local Board (WLB) for Ponsonby Park.

This will be our first opportunity to feedback to the board all the additional information the community provided to us, via the final consultation that formed part of the ‘voting’ process.

As expected, the major theme foremost in people’s mind is the desire for a green space.

Ponsonby is definitely ready for the park! Shelter, flexibility, inclusivity and open space all rated highly as too does a water feature and repurposing part of the existing structure.

A performance space for events, a place to build social capital and the connectivity of the proposed laneway (although outside our mandate for the park), along with a kids' activity area and a place to ‘rest and relax’ made up the top 12 issues expressed by the community.

No comments were received about the site not being developed as an open, urban green space. Nor was there any mention of a ‘lack of retail continuity’ or selling any part of the site.

We now look forward to the workshop to discuss these and other items with the WLB including: • Community access to part of the site until the full park is completed.

• Developing a proposed timeline for the park’s realisation.

• Our evolution from the Community-led Design (CLD) group into the Community-led Implementation group (CLI) as we work with the WLB to deliver the community’s wishes for the site at 254 Ponsonby Road.

Once again, we would like to thank everyone who has taken part in our Community -led Design process. The engagement by the community has been both humbling and inspirational. We are excited by the prospect of now beginning to make Ponsonby Park a reality for everyone to enjoy.

PN Ponsonby Park - it’s our place - it’s your place. (JENNIFER WARD) F www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz

OUT + ABOUT

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Helen Corry performing

Kids' activities in the old ASB bank building

Tiger Burger, Esther Jeong

photography: Jade Paynter

Soala Wilson, Martin Leach & Lily Taylor

Weet-Bix Kids perfoming outside Barfoot & Thompson offices

Kokako, Nitro Cold Brew, Olivia Coote

Julie Mitchell & Jennifer Northover

GREY LYNN STREET PARTY - SATURDAY 29 APRIL - GREAT NORTH ROAD

The Grey Lynn Business Association produced a street party full of music and family friendly activities, including ping-pong at Pocket Bar & Kitchen’s pop-up playroom.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MIKE LEE: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF

Phil Goff and selling the Ports of Auckland Mayor Phil Goff’s intentions regarding the Ports of Auckland have always struck me as quite ambiguous.

While he has been free with comments about wanting to physically move the port... to the Firth of Thames, to the Manukau Harbour, to anywhere... I have noticed he has always fallen silent when the question of his commitment to public ownership of the port comes up - ‘coy’ as NZ Herald’s Bernard Orsman puts it.

However, plans to sell the Ports of Auckland have now been flushed out into the open after a secret meeting involving Goff and the chair and CEO of the port company was leaked to the media. The port is the council’s principal revenue-earning ($40m to $50m per annum) strategic asset. Relinquishing that income stream would require an extra 3% rates increase every year to make up the difference.

According to the Herald, the leak about the meeting came from port company sources. If so, it would not be surprising Port company CEO Tony Gibson, who previously worked for the shipping conglomerate Maersk (and is allowed to act as if the port was already privatised), has made no secret of his ardent desire to sell the company he works for. The leak forced Goff to make what he and his communications people considered looked like a denial - a ringing declaration that the port company land was not for sale. In his email to councillors Goff claimed the port sale story was "factually wrong" but that he did discuss: "whether the Ports should be divided into a Property Company and an Operating Company."

Separating out the ‘land’ and selling off the revenue-earning operating business is a ploy long used by those scheming to privatise the port. When I was chairman of the Auckland Regional Council I had to deal on a regular basis with hard-faced international finance people (including the Sultan of Dubai) wanting to get their hands on the people of Auckland’s blue chip asset - to hear them out and show them the door.

What Goff seems to be unaware of is that the only significant ‘land’ remaining on Ports of Auckland’s books is the reclaimed rubble beneath the tarmac of the container terminals. Everything above that is core port operations. Nearly all the real estate has already been sold or taken out of Ports of Auckland, including the downtown Britomart precinct land, the Viaduct and associated land, Westhaven Marina, and the Wynyard Quarter and Wynyard Point land.

Moreover, there is already a ‘property company’ for port land. This is the CCO ‘Development Auckland’ - ‘Panuku’, which assumed the portfolio of Waterfront Auckland which in turn succeeded Sea + City,

the agency the ARC set up to develop the Wynyard Quarter land (18 ha) taken out of Ports of Auckland by the ARC after we took 100% ownership in 2005.

Be in no doubt, splitting the business from the ‘land’ is clearly a precursor to privatisation - in many ways reminiscent of the corporatisation of Telecom prior to its sale.

For such a canny politician who has spent a lifetime in parliament (or is it because of this?) there is an apparent gullibility about Goff, revealed for instance by the reliance he places on official advice (no trains to the airport) and commercially naïve statements like, ‘I believe the Port’s most valuable asset for Auckland is the land it sits on’, and the commercial silliness of aspiring to both relocate the port and to sell the port.

Goff still does not seem to realise that if you sell a port, it’s not like selling a car. A sold port will not be taken off to a new home. In fact wanting to move the port is logically incompatible with wanting to sell the port. Such public opining by the Mayor of Auckland, constantly raising doubts about the port’s long-term security of tenure just strips millions of dollars of potential value out of the company. Given this, if the port is sold you can be sure the international buyer is likely to get it at a knock-down price. However, once gaining control, no new owner is going to take seriously requests to take its newly acquired asset off somewhere else.

This issue is not likely to go away as more leaks out. Goff, the experienced politician whose key election platform as Labour Party leader during the 2011 general election was ‘Stop Asset Sales’, must realise how damaging these disclosures will be for his former parliamentary colleagues - just when Labour appears to be gaining momentum. After all it was the same Phil Goff who announced in 2011, "The National Party is highly embarrassed by the fact that most New Zealanders don't want asset sales and the Labour Party is standing alongside New Zealanders in that view. In fact we're leading the push back against the assets sales."

Almost certainly Goff would have preferred to have waited until after the general election before letting the cat out of the bag.

For their part Bill English and Steven Joyce must be rubbing their PN hands with glee. (MIKE LEE) F

Mike Lee is the Auckland Councillor for Waitemata & Gulf Ward, www.mikelee.co.nz

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JOHN ELLIOTT: COVER STORY

The big bike trip Local men take on 15,000km adventure...

Brothers Freddie and Arthur Gillies from Grey Lynn and friend Sean Wakely will have begun the adventure of a lifetime by the time this issue of Ponsonby News goes to press.

Sean summed up the trio’s philosophy. “None of us is ready yet to buy into the ‘uni, then 9-5 work scenario'.”

They aim to cycle 15,000km through Asia and Europe to London.

The trip has been meticulously planned, and the three have been working long hours outside their university studies to fund it.

The germ of the idea emerged towards the end of their school days.

Sean explains, “We said to each other one day at school, ‘what the hell are we going to do with our lives?’ We didn’t want to settle for mediocrity. We also didn’t want to settle for the idea that those in need of help should go constantly without or be left wanting.”

Arthur takes up the story. “When our much-loved uncle John was dying of cancer last year we had a long talk to him about his travels. We discussed his journey through Afghanistan and the Khyber Pass, and he told us "in life you have your shit days and your good days. It’s the shit days that build resilience." Uncle John passed in September 2016.

Cue - The Big Bike Trip. Three young men. Three bikes. Three jobs left behind.

The trio decided to ride for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand in memory of John, with the aim of raising $15,000, or $1 per kilometre.

So they had a double reason for taking on the challenge - a personal and gruelling adventure, and a desire to make a difference.

Arthur outlined the itinerary or at least the parts that are firmly planned. Their route will be determined by visas, friendly countries, and avoidance of unfriendly people or beasts. They have had their jabs, including three against rabies. Wild dogs may well be a nuisance in places.

Freddie Gillies, Sean Wakely, Arthur Gillies The major sponsor is The Beauty Collective, who is providing travel accessories, some operational funding as well as charitable donations throughout the trip.

Optimus NZ has provided cooking systems, while Katadyn has supplied a state-of-the-art Swiss water filter and purification tablets.

Macpac have also supplied rain jackets, long-sleeved thermal tops and merino socks.

Sean developed the brand and produced the logos.

The boys have friends in many parts of the world and hope to make many more as they travel around. They already have a message from a young Swiss woman, who lost a family member to leukaemia, "love what you do, come and stay with us in Switzerland - all of you."

So as you read this, the intrepid trio will be somewhere in Asia, on 16kg steel bikes, with 20kg of luggage each, and a huge desire to succeed.

Their journey begins in Bali where they stay three days, unpack their bikes and then head west to cycle across Asia, into Europe and then across the Channel to finish up in London.

We want to explore, they say. Most importantly we want to live in such a way as to embrace ourselves, our friends, and the struggle so many of us turn a blind eye to on a daily basis.

Freddie and Arthur’s older brother Tom, in London, will be expected to give the guys a luxury welcome after their long expedition.

To honour their late uncle John, they want to experience the extremes that are thrown at them on the road - ‘the shit days’, the days that make them feel small and lonely - combined with the good days the days where they experience and feel the joy and excitement of travelling remote corners of the world at a local day to day level.

I asked them how fit they were. They’ve done a short (if 500km can be described as short) warm up in the South Island without mishap.

Friends and family at home will be able to follow the saga pretty well.

“There are internet cafes throughout Asia,” Freddie told us, and they will do a daily blog, and keep a diary.

The records they keep may well form the basis for a book on their return, with photographer Sean providing the pics.

Sean wants to pursue a career in photography and design when he returns, but Freddie and Arthur are unsure of their future. They’ll be world wise, I’m sure, and an asset to any employer.

The Big Bike Trippers have been grateful for sponsorship they have received.

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

These three young men are shining examples of the quality of so many millenials, so often maligned as lazy and wanting it all now!

Good luck Freddie, Arthur and Sean you are an inspiration to us all. Go well in the big wide world.

PN (JOHN ELLIOTT) F The Big Bike Trip Links: www.facebook.com/thebigbiketrip; Donation Page http://my.leukaemia.net,nz/thebigbiketrip; Instagram @thebigbiketripnz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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LOCAL NEWS PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE NEWS New manager!

New manager Lisa Rogers joined our team this week. Lisa comes to us from the Lake House Arts Centre in Takapuna and is an experienced and skilled general manager and curator of art and history.

Lisa is a long-time resident of inner city Auckland and knows (and loves!) the Ponsonby and Grey Lynn areas well.

Please pop in to say hello. You can contact Lisa on E: lisa@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz Ponsy Kids Community Preschool Ponsy Kids Community Preschool is currently looking for a passionate teacher who has a strong commitment to quality practice to join our team.

We are a non-profit community based preschool located in the Ponsonby Community Centre. We are licensed for 41 children aged two to five years.

The children who attend our preschool are nurtured, respected and valued as individuals, giving them a strong sense of belonging. We offer a supportive and fun team environment with ongoing professional development.

If you would like to join our happy team of seven passionate teachers, please email your CV with a covering letter. E: julie@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz

Francesca Hopkins is Four Winds Yoga beginner course teacher. She started ‘Project Practice’ - an initiative to introduce yoga to young women - and holds workshops specifically for 13-20-year-olds interested in knowing more about how yoga can help them. Sunday 18 June, 10 - 11:30am, $15.

Visit our website www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz/PonsyKidsPreschool for information on session times and costs or call us on T: 09 376 0896.

Joe Hopkins is a Muay Thai kick boxer and teacher at City Leegar gym. He is also a student at Four Winds Yoga. Joe has experienced first-hand the benefits of yoga both in preparation for a fight and in reparation. This yoga workshop is to introduce yoga to fighters by a fighter. Sunday 30 July, 10 - 11:30am, $15. F PN

Ponsonby Community Centre & Leys Institute Gymnasium Hall:

For bookings contact: E: suzi@yoga.net.nz, www.yoga.net.nz, M: 027 482 2901.

Yoga for Young People The Hopkins siblings, Francesca and Joe will be teaching yoga workshops over the next two months at the Ponsonby Community Centre.

For more information on Ponsonby Community Centre contact us: T: 09 378 1752, E: info@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz, www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz; Facebook: Ponsonby Community Centre

TOYS FOR ALL SEASONS Ponsonby Community Toy Library turns 25.

The Ponsonby Community Toy Library turns 25 this year and is inviting new members to join other local families and share the 1700 - and counting - toys on offer. Located at the top of Dedwood Terrace next to the Plunket rooms, the Toy Library operates like a book library, with members able to borrow up to seven toys for three weeks.

Ponsonby Community Toy Library Chair, Victoria Carpenter says that people may think of the toy library as being full of dolls and teddy bears when in fact the variety is much wider. “We have so many toys that we organise them into 13 different categories ranging from baby and infant toys, to toys for the bath, role play and dress-ups, musical toys, electronic toys, ride-ons, outdoor, and educational toys. We also offer baby and party equipment for hire,” says Carpenter.

The library caters for babies from six months to children up to seven years and is a great way to keep children entertained. “A huge plus is that once a toy has been explored it doesn’t clutter your home or become landfill because it can be replaced with a fun visit to the toy library,” Carpenter adds. The toy library buys at least one new toy each week, which ensures it can offer age-appropriate toys for children to learn through play at each stage of their development.

“Albert Einstein said play is the highest form of research, and I wholeheartedly agree. Children learn through play and the toy library makes it easy to provide them with a range of play opportunities and new challenges without breaking the bank,” says Carpenter.

The Ponsonby Community Toy Library is a not-for-profit community organisation and is a great way to meet other local families.

Membership is $110 per year for rostered duty members (three shifts working at the library) or $215 for non-duty members.

And membership makes an excellent gift from grandparents and other family members, too. F PN To join the Ponsonby Community Toy Library visit www.ponsonbytoylibrary.org

18 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

19

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Greens are ready for government An interview with co-leader James Shaw confirms the progress the Green Party has made towards being part of a fiscally responsible government.

Shaw joined the Greens while still at school - in1990. After graduating from Victoria University he spent from 1998 to 2010 working in large multinational companies in Europe, developing sustainable business practices. He then returned to his old hometown, Wellington, where he lives with wife Annabel, and entered parliament in 2014. He won the Green Party co-leader role in 2015.

The Green Party is nowadays assured of at least 10% of the vote at elections, and after former co-leader Russel Norman received praise from political pundits for his development of responsible economic policies, Shaw, with his financial background, has further enhanced the Green Party’s economic credentials. A bigger share of the vote this year seems inevitable.

Shaw says research shows that about one third of all New Zealanders are sympathetic to the Greens, especially on environmental issues where they oppose deep sea oil drilling and coal mining, want clean rivers and more action on climate change.

Shaw is certain many voters are considering leaving National.

He has noted a number of people very concerned about the environment and species extinction who will vote Green this year.

He notes others very upset about homelessness and inequality who may leave National for Labour. He acknowledges that it is not sufficient for the Greens to cannibalise Labour votes, nor for Labour to cannibalise Green votes. Votes must be taken from National by both Labour and the Greens, if the centre-left is to win Government.

The Greens will present a formidable list of candidates to voters this year, including former Auckland mayoral candidate Chloe Swarbrick.

Shaw helped canvas around the country, and the party has been rewarded with an embarrassment of riches. The final party list has not been released as this article is being prepared, but I was assured there will be an impressive line up of talented New Zealanders, vying for a place in parliament. At least 50% are women and some outstanding people will miss out.

Green Party co-leader James Shaw "For Central Auckland we must start learning from good overseas design,” he reckons, “Portland and Vancouver as examples.”

Intensification should include a mix of high rise, with terrace housing in between and open space in the form of gardens or parks in the middle.

Auckland Transport and NZTA are building on Treasury’s predictions, but Auckland growth has exceeded their highest scenario for five years, while funding has been delivered at the mid-range projections.

So James Shaw’s main policy priority for Auckland is to accelerate infrastructure projects, mainly rail, including from Britomart to the North Shore, and the three waters.

The Greens are placing a huge emphasis on Auckland for this election. Shaw is impressed with fellow Green MP Julie-Anne Genter’s grip on Auckland problems and their solutions. She is associate health, finance and transport spokesperson, and responsible for Auckland Issues.

He is concerned about large-scale purchase of New Zealand land by overseas buyers. “Property is an international commodity,” he tells us, “two billion people have moved out of poverty into middle class, and are looking at where they can park their money. There is an infinite amount of capital, but only a finite piece of land.

“The problems in Auckland start with poor infrastructure,” James Shaw declares. “Transport networks, the three waters (waste, storm and sewerage), and energy should all be functions of an integrated urban design, and we’ve been terrible at it,” he asserts.

“The Greens are after that one third of New Zealanders who like our Green vision, like our values and like our policies. We must assure them we will not be too radical, will not move too quickly, and that our financial promises are based on careful planning and embrace fairness and equity. We, like other political parties, can run surpluses and curtail unnecessary spending.”

Planning has been done the wrong way around Shaw maintains. “Gee there’s lots of cars, so let’s build more roads. Then more people drive, and roads are further clogged. Supply creates demand rather than the other way around.”

The Green Party list represents modern New Zealand. It is sure to impress and grow the green vote.

Housing has been development led. "Build a bunch of houses, oh, they’re not connected to anywhere, so build a motorway. If you build a rail connection and transport hubs, all the development will happen of itself,” says Shaw, citing underground rail development in London.

Shaw, too, represents modern New Zealand, trained in business, with an unapologetic feel for fairness and social justice. He is young, articulate, witty and intelligent, but somewhat understated and not prone to grandstanding.

The present Government seems temperamentally opposed to rail.

“Joyce and Brownlee are living in the 1950s,” says Shaw, who never owned a car when he lived in London, and went everywhere on public transport.

He and Metiria Turei look increasingly likely to lead the Green Party into a coalition government this September.

PN (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

20 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT SKY AT MOTAT Night Lights 23-25 June, 6-9pm

Auckland’s Museum of Transport and Technology is celebrating Matariki in radiant style with a spectacular illumination event, Night Lights, Visitors will be awed by a creative array of light installations inspired by the museum’s heritage collection at this special evening event. The engaging interpretations created by local artists will see transport and technology artefacts represented as never before.

Artistic works include an interactive ‘lotus pond’ floor projection by visionary content specialists, Dotdot as well as a ‘dream sequence’ projection from Daniel James whose eclectic work transverses performance, video, audio and web-based media.

Husband and wife duo, Warren and Virginia Warbrick of Toi Warbrick explore the cultural and historical significance behind the stars of the national flag through Maori musical instruments, performance and moving image. Multi-disciplinary artist Craig Neilson has created a fascinating zoetrope style animation wheel and experimental digital technologist, Matthew Martin presents a playful ‘colour chamber’ containing a world of infinite possibilities. Then contemporary New Zealand artist, Larisse Hall, invites guests to walk amongst the seven stars of Matariki in her interactive light installation inspired by the Maori New Year.

These installations will be complemented by light activations such as a dazzling tunnel of light by La Lumiere, projection mapping, heritage trams festooned with fairy lights and floodlit heritage buildings. Lustrous, an enchanting art installation created by a group of architecture students from UNITEC using recycled materials to give waste a new lease on life, is bound to be a major attraction.

Apart from trying their hand at illuminated poi and hula hooping, guests will also have the opportunity to experience the award-winning interactive exhibition, Sunlight - Ihi Komaru, which is brand new to MOTAT and tells the fascinating science-based story of sunlight.

Live performances by the SaintzUp Performing Arts Trust, a harlequin stilt walker and the Puha & Pakeha food truck serving delicious Maori food with a modern twist, add to the festive family fun.

Pricing: $18 + booking fee for an individual adult, $10 + booking fee for an individual concession (student with valid ID, child 5-16 years and SuperGold card holders) F PN MOTAT, 805 Great North Road, Western Springs, www.motat.org.nz

$20 ADULT $15 CONCESSION www.motat.org.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

21

DEIRDRE THURSTON: ON MY MIND

Being positive We have all had negative experiences (depending on how we frame them). I have had one recently. A large serving, with extras.

The level of it had me squished into the corner of my couch, red-eyed, staring balefully at some dross on telly. Dressed for the occasion in a faded black - now rusty hued - t-shirt that had seen better decades and a pair of Eiffel Tower-printed PJ bottoms. All class.

cats, exuberant dogs and said “hello!” with an enormous smile to most everyone I saw.

One of the many things I love about my ‘hood’ is the number of beloved pets hanging out by their gates or strolling our pretty streets with devoted owners.

Wine appeared to evaporate in a second from my glass. It was the last of the season’s muggy old nights and the mozzies whined and whinged along with my inner chatter.

During this week of ‘positive above all else’, I have noticed some people do always smile and look on the bright side of life. I’m now assuming they are on triple-dose happy pills because, to be frank, being upbeat All. The. Time. is exhausting. I needed naps each day.

Forty winks on the sofa in the last of the autumn sun kept me in the groove.

About midnight, I decided enough was enough. Tomorrow would be a new day. One I would be grateful for and one in which my new attitude would reign. I would not remain in the doldrums. The t-shirt, in a ceremonial rite, would become polishing cloths, the French-inspired pants would return to my bottom drawer where they belonged until winter really set in. And I would allow only positive thoughts, words and actions for the next week at least. You know: say nothing unless you have something positive to say, smile your way through the day, show compassion and empathy, take in foster kittens and never, ever feed the ducks and swans at the local lake with bread - always have a wee paper bag of sunflower seeds on your person for hungry beaks, only do ‘stuff’ that moves you forward in your goals and dreams. Note to self: quickly get some goals and dreams. And wee paper bags.

Next morning I began my day in an extremely upbeat way with a morning meditation that promised to catapult me out of bed and into a life of plenty. All I had to do was imagine a small white ball of light. Wish I’d known this before. Catapulting out of bed into a new fab life wasn’t quite the outcome but it was just the first morning I told myself positively.

Keep at it. Breakfast was a ghastly affair (and I use ghastly in a nuanced, happy way) of chia seeds, hemp powder, cinnamon, fresh ginger, fresh turmeric with coconut/almond milk whizzed up into a claggy, cement-like sludge which plopped down my throat at intervals until I saw sense and tipped the remainder down the sink. Followed by a good sluicing with Draino.

After checking in the mirror for any signs of a halo, I then practised a 10-minute, fast -paced interval training exercise thingy. Followed by five minutes on a vibration plate machine, feeling positively grateful I had my own teeth. I vaccumed, scrubbed the shower, folded a pile of washing. How can one person have so much washing to fold?

Showered, dressed and executed chores for a friend. Walking back home, I petted lolling

At the end of it all, I came to the conclusion that it is near impossible, for me anyway, to be positive every moment. Some things hurt. Some things are downright shitty. And if I hear anyone else saying glibly: “This will make you stronger”, “There’s a reason this happened” or “The best is yet to come” I will slap them. Probably twice. Some things peeve you off so much that you do address them in a less positive manner. For instance, I was recently at a baby shower and a friend said to a guest, indicating her tummy: “When’s your baby due?”

The guest replied in a fairly controlled low hiss: “Seven months ago. When’s yours?” as she pointed at my friend’s own Ruben’s-like stomach. Ouch. Honestly though, what was she supposed to say? “No, it’s just my ponderous, wobbly gut from too many doughnuts and no exercise whatsoever after having my baby. But, hey, thanks so much for noticing.

Here, have the last asparagus roll.” Of course not.

Life isn’t about always being ‘anything’. We are human beings, not robots. Sometimes our feelings get away on us and we don’t think or act perfectly. That’s okay. We are allowed a less than positive thought or five. The ‘fake it till you make it’ adage holds true for me to a degree. Acting and thinking as positively as possible is a grand thing. Let’s be careful it is real, though, and not merely ‘doing nice’. Spiritual guru, Osho thinks the ‘positive thinking’ movement does more harm than good. Why? Because it means we are denying reality and being dishonest to ourselves. A wholly positive philosophy is only a half truth according to Osho. He thinks negative emotions must be released, not repressed. We must create a consciousness that is neither negative or positive.

Smile and the world smiles with you. And, if by chance, it’s in a fug, give it a break - there PN is positively always tomorrow. (DEIRDRE THURSTON) F

AUCKLANDER MIKE HEARD BREAKS 24-HOUR BUNGY WORLD RECORD Auckland Bungy jumping enthusiast Mike Heard broke the Guinness World Record for the most Bungy jumps in 24 hours, reaching 160 in just over 4.5 hours from the AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand site at Auckland Harbour Bridge on the night of 23 June.

Heard took out the current title, beating the previous record of 158 set by Australian man Beau Retallick in 2014 as part of a 24-hour bungy marathon in aid of the Mental Health Foundation.

Heard’s new record follows two world records for bungy jumping set by Heard from the same location. The first in August 2008, when he jumped 103 times in 24 hours, was later beaten, but he currently holds the 60-minute record, jumping 80 times in just 60 minutes in March 2014.

Heard says he’s “stoked” to have knocked off the record in just five hours.

“It’s a real thrill to have broken the record and achieved what we set out to do.”

You can text BUNGY to 8224 to make an PN automatic $3 donation. F mentalhealth.org.nz/bungy

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS HOSPITAL STRETCHER ACTION LOOKS TO HIGHLIGHT GAPS IN AUCKLAND HEALTHCARE FUNDING Last month, nurses in scrubs delivered a health funding petition on a stretcher to MP Nikki Kaye’s office on College Hill, Freemans Bay. Auckland Emergency Nurse Hamish Hutchinson delivered a petition with 1296 signatures from the Auckland District Health Board (ADHB) region.

The petition urges restoring funding for healthcare services and was in time for this month's budget. “It’s an emergency situation,” Hamish says. “Since 2010, Government funding for ADHB hasn’t kept up with a growing and ageing population and increasing costs.”

photography: Action Station http://yeswecare.nz

Since 2011 ADHB has made $153 million in "efficiency gains," says Hamish.

“The ADHB spends $2315 of funding per head of population while the national average is $2540 per head of population. At the same time the population within the ADHB area has had a 15% increase, from approximately 1,405,500 in 2008 to 1,614,400 in 2016.

He says the underfunding is affecting all areas of the system, for example putting extra burdens on overworked staff.

A recent YesWeCare.nz survey found nine out of 10 people working at ADHB felt underresourcing meant they couldn't give locals the health care they need, when they need it.

“I think it’s clear the staff are really being squeezed, and you’re dealing with people and people’s lives. As much as we try, our health services can’t flourish in financial survival mode,” Hamish says.

Hamish says the Auckland DHB should be supported to meet growing demands such as population growth, and not be forced to find more and more efficiencies. “We are asking the Government to make up the missing $1.85 billion in this month's budget for all 20 DHBs,” Hamish says.

The $1.85 billion shortfall would pay for an extra 7400 doctors, 27,750 nurses or 111,000 hip operations he says.

24 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

“No matter what part of the country, no matter what income you receive, people should have equal access to good healthcare, and I feel like in New Zealand access is a real problem.

“So as long as you get into hospital you’re going to get treated reasonably well but what’s not captured is the access and the people who fall through the cracks,” says Hamish. F PN www.actionstation.org.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

Investing more in education, housing, infrastructure and health As you may be aware I recently became the Minister of Education so it has been a hugely exciting time and I have been working hard for you nationally. It is a big responsibility and I am continuing to work hard to improve our education system for all young New Zealanders.

Last month it was great to be at close to home where I turned the soil on the $15m redevelopment at Grey Lynn School in Auckland. The Government’s investment will help deliver 14 new teaching spaces, including six roll growth and eight replacement classrooms, as well as new library and administration facilities and a multi-purpose hall. It is a significant milestone for the school and I know they’re looking forward to seeing these fantastic new facilities take shape to support their learning vision. The construction work will get into full swing shortly, and is just another part of over $5 billion committed for new and upgraded classrooms since 2008.

As the Minister of Education, I recently announced an extra $5.2 million in funding for the Teach First NZ programme. It hugely important that we ensure New Zealand has high quality teachers across all subjects. Teach First NZ is great for recruiting high-quality graduates in subjects that at the moment are harder to staff, such as maths, science and technology.

We’re also committing $2 million of operating funding over the next two years towards further induction and mentoring for provisionally certificated teachers in priority areas to gain full certification.

L-R: Jessie Lapthorne, Evangelia Henderson, Hon Nikki Kaye & Alex Best

I want every child progressing through our education system to be able to read, write, do maths, be digitally fluent, healthy and well rounded. I’m really concerned that in just a couple of decades a number of jobs that exist now simply won’t be there anymore.

Young New Zealanders need to be prepared for a modern, digitally rich economy.

Education is the pathway to their future success, and the experiences they have in the classroom will not only shape them but have lasting impacts

33,000 more houses for Auckland The Government recently announced the Crown Building Project; the next step in its strategy to address housing in Auckland. The project will build 13,500 new social houses and 20,600 new affordable and market homes. To put this in perspective, it means the Government is committing to the equivalent of building three and a half new houses across every street in Auckland.

In order to raise achievement it is crucial that we continue to improve the quality of teachers. We want all young New Zealanders to have access to excellent teachers and have choices to study across a broad range of subjects.

Many of my constituents have talked to me about how the housing market has affected them or their children looking to buy their first home. This project allows the Government to make the most out of the residential land it owns in order to help Auckland’s most vulnerable families, along with first home buyers and the wider market. These houses will be spread throughout Auckland’s suburbs and will help to alleviate some of the pressure on the people of Auckland Central.

HON NIKKI KAYE

MP FOR AUCKLAND CENTRAL

For constituency enquiries and appointments please contact my Auckland Central electorate office.

A

48C College Hill, Freemans Bay

P

09 378-2088

E

mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz

W

www.nikkikaye.co.nz @ nikkikaye facebook.com/NikkiKayeMP

Investment in tourism infrastructure Tourism is hugely important to Auckland and New Zealand as a whole, generating 188,000 jobs directly and another 144,000 jobs indirectly. Auckland has seen significant growth as it is a main artery for tourists coming into the country. To meet this growth the industry has told the Government that their top priority is infrastructure and we have responded to that. The Tourism Infrastructure Fund will provide $100 million over the next four years, in partnership with local councils and other community organisations, towards new carparks, toilets and freedom camper facilities.

We have also announced a $76 million funding increase for the Department of Conservation to upgrade and develop tourist facilities on conservation land and to expand the Great Walks network. This funding will help to better manage the impact of visitor growth while also protecting New Zealand’s biodiversity and threatened species. $60 million more for improved access to medicines and treatments The Government is committed to ensuring that New Zealanders continue to have access to high-quality healthcare. This is why the Government is investing an extra $60 million in Pharmac over the next four years, taking their budget to a record $870 million. This is a significant achievement and the greater funding means delivering better, sooner and more convenient healthcare. It also means increased access to subsidised medicines, treatments and gives the agency more options on new medicines it can fund.

Drop In Constituency Clinic:

By ensuring we have a stronger economy we are now in a position to invest more in our public services. It is a privilege to be the MP for Auckland Central and I look forward to PN continuing to work hard and deliver for the people of Auckland Central. (NIKKI KAYE) F

48C College Hill, Freemans Bay – 3pm, 19 June

If you have any issues or concerns, please contact my office on T: 09 378 2088 or send me an email on mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz

Funded by the Parliamentary Service and authorised by Nikki Kaye MP, 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay, Auckland.

26 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

Hon Nikki Kaye is the MP for Auckland Central, www.nikkikaye.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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PONSONBY U3A: MAY 2017 We all have opinions about what happens on the waterfront based on media reports of employment disputes and discussion of whether the Ports of Auckland should be relocated.

So it was refreshing for Ponsonby U3A members to hear the inside story from Ports of Auckland Communication Manager and Sustainability Co-leader Matt Ball at its May meeting. Members came away well informed, armed with facts and figures about why the port should stay exactly where it is, and the great turnaround for the port over the past few years.

Occupying its prominent position in the heart of the city, not many of us get to go behind the scenes at the Auckland port and see what goes on. Matt talked about what happens at the port, what cargo is handled and how well the port is doing. He covered plans for the future, including work underway to automate the container terminal, to make it the first New Zealand port to introduce automation. He also outlined the port’s sustainability strategy and how it intends to become the country’s greenest port. Matt has been with Ports of Auckland for the past five years after returning from London where he worked for London Underground and Southern Railway.

Freemans Bay general practitioner Dr Barney Montgomery, founder of the Optimal Clinical Trials research centre spoke to U3A about an international immunology study he is involved with investigating treatment that may reduce the risk of colds, flu or chest infections in older people. Participants in the study will be aged 65 or older with some are being sought in Auckland. He outlined how this double-blind controlled trial will be undertaken and its possible outcomes and benefits.

Ponsonby U3A provides a wide ranging programme of 19 special interest groups for its members, as well as monthly meetings with two speakers. U3A is all about keeping brain and body active, providing painless learning in a convivial atmosphere that’s replicated around the world. Additionally the world-first virtual U3A Online, based in Australia, is available to U3A members here, greatly expanding the number of learning experiences to be studied online, either individually or as part of an online group with

a leader. Ponsonby’s recently started ukulele group plans to study the online ukulele course. Local U3A member Annie Webster is a committee member and newsletter editor for U3A Online. At the May meeting she gave a presentation explaining the online courses and how to access them.

Ponsonby U3A meets on the second Friday morning of the month at the Herne Bay Petanque Club.

Visitors are welcome but are asked to telephone Collene Roche (T: 09 373 3277) prior to the meeting.

Guest speaker for the June meeting will be Chris Orr, Access and Awareness Advisor for the Blind Foundation. His presentation will include information on the breeding, training PN and provision of guide dogs. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F NEXT MEETING:

10am, Friday 9 June at Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Street Reserve, Herne Bay.

ENQUIRIES:

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

RACHAEL TE AOTONGA: LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY NEWS This year, the New Year is signalled when the new moon follows the rising of Matariki on Sunday 25 June. Matariki is the Maori name given to the Pleiades or Seven Sisters star cluster.

Traditionally it is a time for sharing the harvest and preparing crops. It was believed the more luminous and radiant the stars appeared, the warmer the season would be, causing a better harvest.

Matariki is a good time to reflect on your place in the world, to reawaken old skills or try out new ones and to set new goals.

Matariki is one of the star clusters closest to the earth - a mere 440 light years away!

You can see Matariki for yourself from early June. Before sunrise look to the north-east horizon and find the constellation Tautoru, or Orions’s belt (sometimes called ‘the pot’).

Trace a line north from the three stars of Tautoru. Look for a faint sparkle of tiny dots, about the same width as Tautoru is long.

Waiti, Waita, Waipunarangi, Tupu-a-nuku, Tupu-a-rangi, Ururangi e Koinei nga tamariki o Matariki (These are the children of Matariki) Nga whetu e piataata i te rangi e (The bright stars that shine in the sky) Nga whetu e piataata i te rangi e (The bright stars that shine in the sky)

The universe up close: Contemplate the stars at the Leys Institute Library Although Matariki will not be visible in the evening sky, why not join us anyway for a bit of stargazing. If the sky is clear, our resident cosmic guru, Dr Gunn, will say a few words about the heavenly bodies, before we head out into the cold to look at some of them through his fancy reflecting telescope and giant binoculars.

Where: When: Cost: RSVP:

Leys Institute Library Thursday 29 June, 6.15pm Free T: 09 374 1315

Tales by twilight in celebration of Matariki Bring the children to the library to celebrate Matariki with a cosy evening of stories and music. Wear your PJs, bring a torch and - if you like - a sleeping bag. Round the evening off with everyone’s favourite - milk and cookies. (RACHAEL TE AOTONGA) F PN Where: Leys Institute Library When: Friday 23 June at 6.15pm Cost: Free LEYS INSTITUTE, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 374 1315, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

Kaitito waiata (composer): Erana Hemmingsen

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NIKKI KAYE WORKING HARD AND DELIVERING FOR AUCKLAND CENTRAL

NIKKI KAYE MP – AUCKLAND CENTRAL LOCAL PROJECTS UPDATE CBD - A MORE LIVEABLE, CLEANER AND CONNECTED CBD FOR RESIDENTS 1. IMPROVED SCHOOLS - The $19 milllion redevelopment of Freemans Bay school is underway and is due to be completed this year.

2. MORE INNOVATIVE CBD BUSINESSES - Construction on the New Zealand International Convention Centre has begun. Completion is targeted for mid 2019. The development of the Grid AKL precinct is a central hub for Auckland’s growing innovation corridor, and is attracting international investment for ICT and digital media companies.

3. GREATER WATERFRONT ACCESS - Investigating a Private Members Bill to improve waterfront access.

4. BETTER FAMILY & CBD SOCIAL SERVICES - The Government has announced a $41 million investment in emergency housing. This will see Auckland receive an extra 360 places. This funding is vital for our city, particularly for people living in Central Auckland.

5. IMPROVED SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS - Following incidents at Albert Park last year, I have been working with the Police, Local Board, Council and Student Associations to improve lighting and cameras in the area. A report is currently being commissioned by the Council, and hopefully will result in further investment in security for inner city parks and spaces.

6. CITY RAIL LINK & CYCLEWAYS - The Government has formalised our funding commitment for the CRL, allowing construction of the main workss to begin in 2018, two years earlier than originally envisaged. An $88 million package of cycleways and Auckland Central has been announced and will connect cycleway ays benefiting Auckland A key parts rts of Auckland’s Auckland central city. Construction is due to be completed by mid 2018.

7. A CLEANER LE CBD C - I have been vocal in my support for MP Jono Naylor’s Litter Infringement Fee) Amendment Bill, which is currently in the Parliamentary (Increased ed Infrin nfring ing passed, Ballot. Iff pa pas passed the maximum fine for littering would be increased to $1000.

WESTERN W ES ESTERN N BAYS - GREATER LOCAL SCHOOL INVESTMENT, CONNECTIONS AND PLANNING FOR GROWTH FOR THE C ONNECT T WESTERN BAYS 8. IMPROVE WESTERN BAYS SCHOOLS - The $12 million development at Bayfield School was completed last year, and the school is operating from their new buildings. c We also announced the $79 million Western Springs College redevelopment. This is ann the largest ever investment in a NZ school. Construction is underway and is due to e be complete completed by the end of 2018.

9. IMPROVE IMPROV INNER CITY RESIDENTIAL PARKING - The Auckland Transport has been approved – which sets out a new residential parking parking strategy stra policy. Various Vario residential parking zones have now gone live or are going live soon in tthe Western Bays.

10. ENSURE ENS GREATER ULTRA-FAST BROADBAND ACCESS - The rollout across acros os Auckland City is now about 53% complete and we are on track to ensuring that all of Auckland will be complete by the end of 2019. en ensur 11. B BETTER BUS TRANSPORT CONNECTING THE CBD AND WESTERN BAYS A - Several new bus lanes are to be developed to better connect the Western Bays to the city and allow for better transport.

W E W

P

nikki.kaye@national.org.nz nikkikaye.co.nz facebook.com/NikkiKayeMP @nikkikaye (09) 360 1936

Authorised by Nikki Kaye MP, 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay, Auckland.

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Auckland loses fine educational leader I knew Ken Havill as the principal of my sons’ high school. I valued the occasional chats we had on the sideline as we watched Saturday sport at Western Springs.

I came to value his intelligence, his perspicacity, his humanity. He seldom ran anyone down or was negative. He was always thoughtful and considered.

In staff meetings Ken listened hard to all staff members and measured his responses carefully. Sometimes he would say he’d think on an issue and report back at the next staff meeting.

Ken Havill lost his battle with cancer last month, just months after his retirement as principal of Western Springs College. He had served Western Springs for 24 years, 19 as principal.

Ken Havill had a respect for his fellow man. He would never attack the person, only ever the idea or philosophy being discussed. Ivan told me, “Ken saw most things and understood their relevance and impact, usually well before the rest of us.”

Ken (there was never Mr or Ms or Sir in his vocabulary) saw Western Springs double in size in his time, top New Zealand pass rates for UE, and he oversaw New Zealand’s first co-governance structure under the Treaty of Waitangi.

It is a shame that Ken did not live to see the rebuild of Western Springs College he fought so hard to achieve. The record $79 million, Minister of Education, Nikki Kaye, announced for the rebuild was in part a tribute to Ken Havill’s persistence.

As a former teacher, I understand about school ‘tone’.

There was always a warm and friendly greeting from students and teachers at Western Springs, and there is always a positive, active learning environment on display. Ken once said, “this isn’t a sit down, shut up and listen school.”

I visited the school to chat to Ivan Davis, Ken’s successor as principal.

Ivan was deputy principal under Ken for 14 years, before his elevation in October 2016, on Ken’s retirement.

Western Springs has been described as a teachers’ school, a tribute to Ken Havill who embodied the school motto ‘Pursue the bird of learning’. A recent ERO report notes the ‘strong working relationships between students and teachers’.

An excellent staff can take credit for those relationships, but this excellence comes from the top down.

Ken was proud of the school’s mission statement “All students and staff, inspired by a love of learning, are challenged to discover and develop their unique personal strengths so that they are well equipped to share in the building of a just and sustainable society.”

Western Springs is a happy school, a tolerant school, a harmonious school where cultural differences are valued, and Ken Havill and the staff he gathered around him must take great credit for that.

I asked Ivan if my assessment of Ken was accurate: that he was understated, didn’t seek the limelight, and gave staff their head to get on with the job. That he was modest, humble.

As a very young teacher at Bay of Islands College, in Northland, Ken Havill, a talented rugby league player, joined the Moerewa League team as the only pakeha in the team. They made Ken their captain.

His reverence for Maori and the Treaty of Waitangi blossomed there in the North, and he always gave Maori students and staff pride of place at Western Springs

Ivan Davis called him a "considered man, erudite," and said that he grew in confidence as the school achievements flowed. "His hardest task he always said, was selecting staff. He put a huge amount of time and energy into it."

A leader who knew the value of people, he tangata, he tangata, he tangata, Ken Havill leaves a wonderful legacy behind, as well as Lorraine, his wife of 47 years and daughters Paola and Si’a Lei. He PN will be greatly missed. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

L to R: Ken Havill receiving the Woolf Fisher Award from Nigel Evans

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

COMPLETED GARDEN APARTMENTS 2 only now available • 2 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms • 2 Carparks )\EGXMRK 7TIGM½GEXMSR • Extensive Views • 81m2 terrace

COMPLETED TOWER APARTMENTS 3 only now available • 2 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms • 2 Carparks )\EGXMRK 7TIGM½GEXMSR • Extensive sustainable city / water view

SHOW SUITE 9 Hopetown St Ponsonby Open daily 11:00am — 2:00pm Wednesdays 6:00pm — 8:00pm DARRYL MACLEAN: M: 021 675 356 E: darryl@shll.co.nz WWW.WESTERNPARK.NZ

WesternPark is a boutique apartment complex with majority ownership by owner occupiers that establishes an amazing culture within the building.

8LI WYTIVMSV WTIGM½GEXMSR WYWXEMREFPI ZMI[W KVIEX PSGEXMSR ERH EQIRMXMIW +YIWX WYMXIW 0MFVEV] 4SSP 8IRRMW GSYVX [MPP WEXMWJ] XLI QSWX HMWGIVRMRK SJ TYVGLEWIVW

LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

Mud House Official Sponsor of the British and Irish Lions Tour Mud House owes its existence to the spirit of adventure lurking within Essex couple John and Jennifer Joslin.

While sailing around the world they stopped off at Picton and promptly fell in love with Marlborough. They decided to settle there and established Mud House Wines, named after the mud-block house they had constructed in the original vineyard. Since those early days the winery has grown substantially, gone through several ownership changes and expanded its holdings in the leading southern wine regions of Marlborough, Waipara Valley and Central Otago.

The vineyards are sustainably managed, and carefully nurtured by the Mud House viticulture team to ensure that each variety and batch reach their optimum potential. The company operates two wineries, one in Marlborough and one in Waipara, both equipped with leading-edge technology designed to promote natural winemaking processes by minimising human intervention.

This range highlights the different sub regions of Marlborough, something we don’t think of enough. The Single Vineyard range then is rather self-explanatory and lays out to highlight the excellent vineyards of Mud House.

Whilst based in Marlborough and with a large part of its production from Marlborough, my favourite from the range is the Claim 431 Pinot Noir. It’s a Central Otago pinot noir from the sub region of Bendigo. The name Claim 431 referencing the claim number that was put on that site, one of the original stations in the area. It has everything you would expect from great Bendigo pinot noir; dark, brooding, with firm yet fine tannins and a gorgeous long length. The 2015 has just been released and is well worth searching out. (LIZ WHEADON) F PN www.glengarry.co.nz

That technology provides the talented and vastly experienced winemaking team, headed up by Cleighten Cornelius, with a wealth of options when it comes to crafting their wines.

Long recognised for the quality of their output, Mud House continues to garner an astonishing tally of medals across its entire portfolio of varietal and regional wines.

Cleighten Cornelius was trained in viticulture and winemaking at Lincoln and has worked many vintages in France, Germany and Cyprus (of all places). Cleighten is Marlborough born and bred and took up a winemaking role with Mud House in 2012.

The Mud House range sits neatly into three tiers: the Estate Range, the Sub Regions and the Single Vineyards. The Estate range overdelivers on the quality stakes and is a great ‘go to’ wine. The Sub Region range is an excellent, relatively new addition.

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FROM PONSONBY TO PLUME Why should people come to Plume?

Plume, the vineyard restaurant, Matakana is situated a short 45-minute drive away from Auckland city. Just getting away from the city will be a refreshing and relaxing change and the restaurant is very well known for its commitment to great food, Matakana silky wines, expansive views over the Tamahunga Range. All in all making for a wonderful vineyard restaurant experience Who are the team behind Plume?

Farida Cooper is the owner with a great passion for food, wine and customer care. Atesh Ram is our head chef, he leads a team of committed chefs both at Plume Restaurant on Sharp Road and Plume Cafe in the heart of Matakana Village. Atesh has a passion that encompasses food and service. Sebastian Milles our front-of-house manager comes from Germany and has a typical dry sense of humour. He worked in various European cities before landing up in Matakana over 10 years ago, making it his home.

What is on the menu?

The food menu is debated over very fiercely at Plume between the front-of-house and kitchen. Every time the menu changes there is tension in the air, thereafter each dish is sampled by all, adjustments, if any, are made before it becomes official. Garden to table we use local suppliers, our very own potager and fruits from our vineyard; everything is made in-house. Our food encompasses different cultures to represent what New Zealand is today. Our Crispy Duck Leg main is our signature dish - quite close to the Peking duck dish with pancakes. We have lovely Matakana white and silky red wines, beers including local craft beers, our very own 100% non-alcoholic syrah (grape juice) and fizzies.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Do you have a private function facility?

Yes, we have spaces available for groups of 14 and groups of 45-plus, subject to prior booking.

What do you love about Matakana?

The air we breathe, the good folk of Matakana and the chance to work with fresh locally grown/made produce, and Auckland is just a short drive away, should we wish to get into some ‘big city madness’. F PN PLUME RESTAURANT, 49a Sharp Road, Matakana, T: 09 422 7915, www.plumerestaurant.co.nz

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY FACES @ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET The Grey Lynn Farmers’ Market has become increasingly popular and now it has a new market manager - Carol Gunn.

Are you a local?

Definitely. I’ve lived in Grey Lynn since my daughter was born 16 years ago, my father grew up in Westmere, my grandmother grew up in Arch Hill and my great-grandparents lived in Beresford Street.

Are you passing on that family tradition?

Yes - my children are 13 and 16. They have been to local Plunket, playgroup, toy library, St James Kindy, Richmond Road Primary, Ponsonby Intermediate and are now at Western Springs College. Also my youngest plays soccer for Western Springs and delivers Ponsonby News in Grey Lynn.

We hear that you are involved with Western Springs College I am on the board of Western Springs College so I am very aware of all the exciting developments going on around the Western Springs precinct. The college, the zoo, MOTAT and the park are all getting significant redevelopments. The council is also planning a Community Recycling Centre next to the Horticultural Society on Great North Road. This area is going to look very different in five years.

Why did you take up the market manager role?

I have visited the Grey Lynn Farmers Market most Sunday mornings since it opened. It’s a great fit with my other community work and I’m keen to build on the great work that Dave Watson has done.

What is your vision for the market?

First I just want to learn the ropes and listen to the thoughts of market visitors and stallholders. I don’t want to change things that are important to the community. I know people love that the market is a hub where the community mixes, meeting old friends and making new connections. Increasingly our community is concerned about the provenance of their food so it is important that customers and food producers get to talk directly to each other. The Farmers Market is a great venue for both meeting people and getting food direct from source - and all ethical and zero-waste. F PN Contact Carol Gunn - Market Manager on M: 021 928 202.

Market hours: Sunday 9am-12.30pm. Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, www.glfm.co.nz

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY NEW ZEALAND’S BIGGEST WINE TASTING EVENT IS BACK - 9-10 JUNE - WITH 60 WINERIES AND OVER 350 WINES ON SHOWCASE After selling out in Auckland in 2016, New Zealand’s largest wine tasting event, Winetopia presented by Singapore Airlines, returns with an action-packed line-up. As to be expected, this includes some Ponsonby locals who will be sharing their love of the grape.

Comedian Brendhan Lovegrove will be “Sharing a glass” with some well-known personalities, chat-show style. Guests include Sir John Kirwan, photographer Dr Fiona Pardington and Westmere musician Peter Urlich. Jarod Santana of top Freemans Bay restaurant Clooney will be offering sommelier’s tips along with other great restaurant professionals such as Meg Abbot-Walker of Masu and Benjamin Mardle of Euro.

New Zealand boasts over 670 wineries, far too many for an average Kiwi to check out in one lifetime. We’ve created Winetopia to take attendees far beyond the well-known, behind the closed door of the vineyards and cellar doors of our beautiful country and into the minds of the people that make our world-famous drop.

Journey through New Zealand’s stunning wine regions, from Northland to Central Otago, sampling all the Hawkes Bay, Martinborough and Marlborough wines inbetween. Wine enthusiasts, lovers and connoisseurs, can taste and take home your top picks from hundreds of wines from 60 amazing wineries at the Auckland event at Shed 10 on Queens Wharf from 9-10 June. Wineries include premium brands such as Mt Difficulty, Pegasus Bay, Kumeu River, Nautilus Estate and smaller boutique brands like Torlese, Herons Flight and Prophets Rock. This is the best way to discover the best our nation has to offer.

Plus, pair your sumptuous wines with mouth-watering food offerings from a selection of award-winning artisans.

NZ Master of Wine Emma Jenkins and renowned Australian wine expert Nick Stock will share their vast knowledge with short free talks and also dedicated masterclasses.

Masterclass tickets are just an extra $20 and the 40-minute classes include tasting of five premium wines.

Ridiculously Good Value $25 tickets are flying out the door, with now only limited numbers left for some sessions. But never fear, online tickets are only $35 and include entry, a wine glass, five tasting tokens, complimentary talks and entertainment - this still has to PN be the best value day in town. F

Renowned comedian, Brendhan Lovegrove, hosts sessions where you can share a glass with some of your favourite wine-loving personalities to unearth their favourite drop, with a splash of humour along the way. Auckland will see Brendhan joined by Sir John Kirwan, Chloe Swarbrick, Scotty Stevenson, Boh Runga, Fiona Pardington and Peter Urlich.

Explore our action-packed timetable now with friends, it’s going to be a really great day out. Pre-booking tickets essential at winetopia.nz

Hopetoun Brown returns by popular demand to close each session in both Auckland and Wellington, with Auckland seeing the duo joined by the sounds of Finn Scholes. With their eclectic mix of jazz and blues, with a touch of rock and roll, and a pinch of country, these guys are sure to close Winetopia in style.

Singapore Airlines, the presenting sponsors, will help visitors explore one of their lead destinations - France - with dedicated French vs NZ wine tastings and the chance for all event attendees to enter to win a return flight for two to Paris with Singapore Airlines.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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CASE STUDY

CASHFLOW SOLUTION IS GOOD NEWS FOR THIS RESPECTED LOCAL MAGAZINE Knowing there’s cash on hand to pay the printer, and not having to chase invoices each month, are what makes invoice finance good news for New Zealand small business owner Martin Leach.

Martin publishes Ponsonby News, a magazine founded in 1989 that covers the trendy Western Bay area of Auckland, an area similar to Australia’s Paddington, Brunswick or New Farm.

In 2004 Martin took over the business after moving from the United Kingdom for a change from his career as a business-to-business magazine publisher.

He transformed Ponsonby News from a newsletter into a full colour magazine, which now has 18,000 copies distributed by hand each month and an audited 69,000* readers per issue.

“People come from all over Auckland for the shopping, night life and restaurant scene (there are 50 bars and restaurants along Ponsonby Road alone), and they rely on Ponsonby News for what is happening in this vibrant district,” according to Martin.

“The business has grown a lot since 1989, and despite tough competition from social media and apps, we have a loyal group of advertisers who like to see their material in print, and a loyal group of readers.”

Martin has partnered with Scottish Pacific for business finance since he took on the publication more than a decade ago. Coming from the United Kingdom, where invoice finance is very popular, he knew how it worked and was keen to use invoice finance to fund Ponsonby News.

“Back then the turnover was around $250,000 per annum, and that figure has grown considerably. What I like is that our facility with Scottish Pacific has grown in step with the business,” Martin said.

“Our biggest expense each month is printing. Invoice finance allows us steady access to funds to pay the printer, as well as our contractors, on time.

“We do have an overdraft but it is invoice finance that keeps our cashflow ticking over each month.

“The cost of invoice finance is money well spent: Scottish Pacific chase up our invoices for us and I’d much rather pay a small fee for this than pay a much larger sum to employ someone each month to chase money and get our invoices paid.”

According to Martin, Scottish Pacific’s New Zealand team are great to deal with, very helpful and professional.

“Things are ticking along nicely, I’m very happy with our little business and the role it plays in our vibrant Auckland community,” he said.

Scottish Pacific’s New Zealand general manager, Greg Wertheim, congratulated business partners Martin Leach and Jay Platt on their 10-plus years with Scottish Pacific. They are one of a number of long-term clients serviced in New Zealand.

“One of the misconceptions of invoice finance is that it is a 'lender of last resort finance solution for businesses' - that is not the case.

Ponsonby News is a great example of a solid business that has used invoice finance, for a decade now, to smooth out its cashflow each month,” Wertheim said.

Scottish Pacific’s New Zealand general manager, Greg Wertheim “We’ve seen their business grow, and we’ve been delighted to help with that growth journey.

“Invoice finance suits many businesses, and is especially popular in printing and recruitment businesses where there are large outlays (respectively, for printing the magazine and for labour hire) that owners can account for before their customers pay them.” It’s ideal for other industries such as transport, wholesale, manufacturing and business services.

“The beauty is that no real estate security is required, the invoices are the security. This brings owners great peace of mind, and allows them to go about the work of growing their businesses,” he said.

Invoice finance is a line of credit secured against outstanding sales invoices, not real estate. Also known as factoring or debtor finance, it provides a business with fast access to working capital that would otherwise be tied up in accounts receivable for 30 or 60 days or more to help meet operating costs or fund growth. It is one of the most versatile funding solutions available to small and medium-sized businesses because it can be more readily accessed, can increase overall funding, and improve cash flows quickly which can lead to other efficiencies in the business. Invoice finance is linked to the value of sales, so the level of funding will increase as the business grows. With a factoring facility, Scottish Pacific offers an accounts receivable service which will save you valuable time and money.

What’s more, you can focus on what is really important - managing and growing your business.

Ponsonby News is a full colour magazine for the greater Ponsonby area in Auckland New Zealand, and has been published monthly since 1989. www.ponsonbynews.co.nz Scottish Pacific Business Finance is part of the Scottish Pacific Group (ASX:SCO) and is the largest specialist provider of working capital solutions for SMEs in Australia and New Zealand. More than 1700 clients in industries including transport, manufacturing, wholesale, import, labour hire and printing benefit from their broad range of trade and debtor finance solutions. Scottish Pacific handles more than $14 billion of invoices each year, providing debtor and trade finance funding exceeding $1 billion. Established in 1988, the business has full service bases in Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, London and China. Scottish Pacific is an ASX 300 company. www.scottishpacific.com

Follow Scottish Pacific Business Finance on Twitter - @ScottishPacific - and on LinkedIn

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

*Nielsen Media

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JULIE BONNER: NEWS FROM FROG POND FARM

Third time lucky...

I’m sure that you have heard of the phrase ‘third time lucky’ right?

If you recall from my last article, I was having problems with the wildlife stealing seed that I had sown as a cover crop? I knew sooner or later that I had to outsmart those sparrows, blackbirds and doves. Sure, it took a few goes admittedly (three actually), but at last I have lupins, which are slowly starting to germinate in my old corn bed. I’m a happy gardener.

There are trials and tribulations with gardening, as we all know. Last year my garlic crop was a failure. It got nailed by rust and, regardless of my attempts to rescue it, when finally harvested, the garlic bulbs were about the size of rather large marbles - payback for years of gloating I guess. So, not one for giving up too quickly, I bought some more heirloom garlic online and am going to plant it in the next few weeks. Obviously not in the beds where it was planted last year, that’s a given. But I will ensure that the cloves are poked into rich organic soil and given plenty of TLC. Watch this space. Trust me, there is nothing better than home-grown garlic.

I’ve been busy pruning some of our fruit trees lately too, but I am yet to finish. It’s an onerous task given the amount of fruit trees we have. We also have several young casimiroa trees that are due for their very first haircut. I’m obviously a tad nervous, as I haven’t pruned this variety before. I suspect a quick phone call to my ex hort teacher is on the cards.

Kiwis all know that April / May means feijoas, those wonderful perfumed fruit that we grew up with. As always it is a race with the wildlife (four-legged critters) to see who can get to them first. Of course I never win, truth is, I’m not really into eating unripe feijoas.

This year I not only intend to freeze a few and have eaten many, but I have also made a feijoa jelly. I followed the recipe diligently but became impatient during the cooking process, which meant the following day the jelly was still sloshing about in the jars, it hadn’t set. The good news is jelly is absolutely fixable. Back onto the stove, no pectin needed, just more patience Julie!

My brassicas (kale and broccoli) are safely ensconced under their cloche, which keeps them protected from some of the wildlife and ensures that the confines of the space are slightly warmer. I guess that is probably why our black cat Eric was lazing about in there the other day. I don’t know who got more of a fright when I hauled up the frost cloth, him or me. I’m still scratching my head wondering how on earth he managed to get in there in the first place.

The weather in Auckland has been so unsettled lately. I guess it’s something to do with winter knocking on the door. Our trees, which were slowly losing foliage, have been battered by the wind the last few days and the ground is littered with leaves. I’m sitting in the kitchen tapping away on the laptop watching as the southwest shakes up the trees in the backyard ... and howls as it slides past the house. Did I mention the rain we have been having?

For those that follow Frog Pond Farm, you will know that our garden is perched on a north-facing hillside. Not all that ideal as you get older and attempt to tote heavy buckets of soil and produce about, but when it rains, there is no better place for the garden to be. The drainage is superb.

And guess what? Our rooster Jack has finally manned up a bit - at last he has started to crow. It’s not the most pleasant sound as yet, but he just needs a bit of practise, that’s all.

Oh did I say we have had some amazing PN sunsets lately? (JULIE BONNER) F If you are interested in more news from our place or perhaps some gardening tips then visit my blog www.frogpondfarm.co.nz

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY @ SABATO As winter rolls in, it’s easy to become nostalgic about long evenings basking in the warm weather and enjoying fresh summer dishes.

But the arrival of cooler nights gives way to endless options in the kitchen and here at Sabato we couldn’t be more excited!

It’s time to take pleasure in the arrival of the winter months with some of our exceptional European ingredients and heart-warming recipes. Fill your cupboards with grains, pulses, pasta and lentils, which are essential for winter cooking.

Make a flavoursome, healthy lemon and harissa chicken one-pot wonder with fregola - a semolina dough pasta that's like Israeli couscous but bigger in size. This is an incredibly nourishing dish for those cooler evenings. Finish off by creating a wonderfully decadent Valrhona chocolate and rose petal jelly cake - the two work in harmony as a flavour combination.

Our Girolomoni mountain lentils and farro offer a versatile base for salads, braises and hearty soups. Grown organically in Italy, they’re nutritious and delicious and a great way to add texture to your winter meals. Try combining farro, white beans, tomato passata and prosciutto for a simple, classic Tuscan soup. Serve with crusty bread and drizzle over extra virgin olive oil for a wholesome winter dish.

Pressed for time? Toss one of our Sabato pasta sauces through your favourite rustichella pasta and top with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano - effortless and divine! For a healthier option try our gluten-free gnocchi made from potato, rice and corn and combine with one of our punchy pestos for a tasty and convenient dinner.

Visit our retail store to taste our new products and chat to our knowledgeable staff. For more winter recipe ideas visit www.sabato.co.nz F PN SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 8751, www.sabato.co.nz

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DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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OUT + ABOUT

Angie Fredatovich, Caitlin Taylor & Andrea Steward

Tristram Clayton & Wilhelmina Shrimpton

Lucy Slight, Matilda Rice & Lauren Potter

Aziz Al-Sa'afin & Sarah Stuart

Clint Roberts & Lucy Slight

Fran King & Alice Feutz

Gina Kiel artist

Mary-Therese Kinsella & Colin Mathura-Jeffree

Megan Whiteside & Daniel Jenkins

PONSONBY LIVE LOCAL LUNCH — SATURDAY 20 MAY @ OLD PONSONBY FIRE STATION

Guests enjoyed a five-course lunch showcasing dishes from a selection of Ponsonby’s finest eateries such as SPQR, Prego, Cocoro and Saan, at the Old Ponsonby Fire Station, to celebrate American Express’ Live Local initiative. Artist Gina Kiel started and completed an artwork during the three hour lunch.

40 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

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HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN I have had a large red dish of water on my deck for as long as I can remember.

The list of visitors to this red watering hole is long. The list covers a wide variety of birds, insects, the occasional cat and bush rat. Sadly, there is only one native bird on the list, the waxeye.

People often ask me if I'm concerned about the increase in non-native birds in the area. I'm not concerned because I see an increase in most bird species, especially the kereru and the tui.

Both the tui and kereru seem to prefer to source their water from our roof guttering.

The tui drinks and bathes in the guttering. They seem to spend quite a bit of time up there. I can't see them very well from down below, but there's certainly a lot of thrashing around going on.

I know when the kereru are here because they land with a loud thud on our iron roof.

The kereru sip at the shallow puddles in the guttering and take off soon after. Clearly, they're too large to bathe in the guttering. I was puzzled about whether or not they bathe and where? Then, one day I found out. It was pouring with rain, and I noticed a kereru sitting high up in a cabbage tree. As the rain poured down the kereru raised a wing high up and over its body exposing the underneath part. It did both wings several times. It was like watching Big Bird do a yoga stretch.

Despite the fact that the tui and the kereru visit here throughout the year, I have yet to see either of these birds come anywhere near the red watering hole, until recently that is.

The first to test the water was the kereru. Early in the morning this bird climbs down from the manuka tree onto the deck rail and takes a sip of water from the dish. The first time I witnessed this, I was shocked, thrilled and a little worried. If this large bird were to jump in and frolic around; the dish might tip off the rail.

The tui birds were next. It started with one juvenile tui and then suddenly, there were six of them. Once they realised how much fun it was bathing in the dish, they began to fight over it. They queued up in the nearby tree, but if one took too long, they would just bump them out of the way. At times, there were two bathing together.

I am at a loss to explain why these birds suddenly showed an interest in the red watering hole. I can only assume, as I mentioned above. It's the increase in numbers, and perhaps familiarity. They have become just that little bit more relaxed here.

PN (HEIDI PADAIN) F To see some of Heidi’s other photographic work go to www.flickr.com and type Heidi Padain into the search box, or, you can contact Heidi by email hidihi@xtra.co.nz.

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

GARY STEEL: VEG FRIENDLY

Challenging fundamental notions... how to get your giggle on I was chatting with a friend the other day about all the rank smells, visual images and subtle pressures meat eaters inflict on vegetarians without even one single thought for our wellbeing.

“I’ve learned that for the majority of meat eaters it’s a religion, and by not eating meat you are challenging many people’s fundamental notions of life, the universe and everything,” he said.

“That guy at the barbeque who asks why you are only eating salad, then spends the next four hours following you about with a steak on a fork saying ‘Go on, you’ll love it.

People accuse vegans of being self-righteous twats, but they’ve got nothing on meat -loving rednecks.”

I had a good laugh at that, because the situation he describes so vividly has been a recurring factor of my 40-odd years as a vegetarian. It’s funny that vegans and vegetarians are often portrayed as turning their food choices into a religion, when so many meat eaters have an almost religious fervour about their consumption of slaughtered blood relatives.

But as my friend so eloquently put it, vegetarians are challenging people’s fundamental notions of life, the universe and everything. In reality, it’s exactly the same as the typical New Zealand male who just cannot fathom the possibility that anyone wouldn’t give a rat’s about the rugby, or my elderly neighbour, who won’t have a bar of this craft beer thing, and will only drink Lion Red. When I asked him why, his defense was: “I always have done. I’m not going to change now.”

Then there was that story from across the ditch about outraged Aussies when Bunnings allowed a cat rescue service to sell vegan sausages outside a Melbourne branch of the DIY megastore. How dare they sell this muck, these fake sausages, to unsuspecting shoppers.

The fact that the vegan sausages were being sold to make money for an animal welfare charity seems to have eluded the complainers. To me, it makes perfect sense. Or maybe they should have just sold sausages made from cat food, which would probably be no worse than the contents of 'normal' meat sausages, which are rumoured to contain mostly lips and bums, udders and tongue and other gristly, grisly unmentionables.

The boring tradition of sausage sizzles is just one of my many bugbears about life in New Zild, and one of the many ways meat eaters don’t care about the sensibilities of those who choose not to indulge in animal flesh. Try getting into a Warehouse on a Saturday without filling your nasal cavities and lungs with the wretched stink of sizzled sausage. The same applies to school fairs and book fairs and various other community activities, all of which feature the obligatory offensive sausage vendor.

Attitudes around the promotion, sale and eating of meat remind me of the blasé attitude people once had around cigarettes. For most of my life, the pernicious promotion of cigarettes was constantly in the background, and there was really no point in not being a smoker at any social event, so shrouded were smokers and non-smokers alike in the ubiquitous cloud of tobacco smoke. The vegetarian sees meat everywhere. It’s impossible to un-see those images, or un-smell the stink of it, and it’s a constant chore trying to find manufactured foods that don’t contain animal products (most of which never belonged in those products in the first place). In the end, the only thing to do is to PN find a mate to share one’s woes and get a bit of a giggle on. (GARY STEEL) F Gary Steel is an Auckland-based journalist who runs online vegetarian resource www.doctorfeelgood.co.nz He can be contacted via beautmusic@gmail.com

PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY?

Number one in sparklers - Marlborough’s No 1 Family Estate French-born Champagne-maker Daniel Le Brun launched his wholly family-owned Méthode Traditionelle producing business back in July 1999, using the processes perfected by his Champagne-making family in France over 12 generations.

The Marlborough winery has been set up with state-of-the-art processing equipment, imported from the Champagne region. The company is owned by Adele and Daniel Le Brun and their two children Virginie and Remy. And the winery is dedicated solely to the production of Méthode Traditionelle wines. Their aim is to produce Champagne method wines in New Zealand to rival some of the best from France. I would agree that they have done just that. Here is a sample of the Le Brun portfolio of exceptional wines.

No 1 Family Estate Cuvee Virginie Non-Vintage - $85 Pale gold in the glass, this is an 80/20 blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. The grapes were harvested early-mid March 2009. Dedicated to Daniel’s daughter Virginie. It has a lively frothy mousse and is suitably feminine - elegant and delicate. It is bone dry and has a hint of yeasty croissant, with nudges of blanched almond and citrus and a lengthy palate. (PHIL PARKER) F PN

No 1 Family Estate Assemblé Non-Vintage - $33 Pale apricot blush colour, fine beaded bubbles. A traditional blend of chardonnay and pinot noir (60/40) with a minimum 18 months lees ageing (ie, left on yeast residue).

A good whiff of carbonic acid (CO2) and a hint of yeasty brioche on the nose. Mouth -filling and rich flavours of pear, nougat, Mum’s apple pie and stone fruit with a dry, mineral, tangy finish.

Phil Parker is a wine writer and operates Fine Wine & Food Tours in Auckland.

See: www.finewinetours.co.nz Phil’s new cellar door book ‘NZ Wine Regions - A Visitor’s Guide’ is now available on Amazon Kindle.

No 1 Family Estate Cuvee - $36 Pale gold and made from 100% chardonnay grapes. Delicate citrus, yeast and floral aromas. Spent two years on yeast lees. Tastes rich and creamy with flavours of blanched almond, nectarine, and a hint of mandarin. Lengthy palate with a dry but not bone -dry finish.

No 1 Family Estate Rosé Non-Vintage - $45 Made from 100% pinot noir, this is a salmon-pink bubbly with aromas of red apple skin, brioche and marzipan. In the mouth, it has a rich and complex palate of cherry/almond, a hint of strawberry and a tangy yeasty mid-palate with a dry, mineral finish.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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ROSS THORBY: SEA FEVER

Tonight the sky is alight with the sparkle of a kazillion stars...

Tonight in pitch blackness we stood on the fantail of the ship's aft deck nine, looking up at the night sky.

The ships lights have all but been extinguished and we are cruising through the inky black Pacific. A big, dark hulk of steel, edging smoothly and quietly through the water with only the high-pitched sound of the bow wave hitting the water and the melody of a quartet drifting up from some bar or public room below us. Strains of Mozart seeping out into the night before evaporating in our slipstream. An ethereal dream extinguished by the night, we are followed by the eerie white wisp of the billowing flume.

Here, a few days sail from anywhere, there is no light bleed, no street lamps polluting the sky, no skyscrapers projecting pulsating strobes from aerial masts, no motorway traffic shining headlamps into the atmosphere and even absent tonight is the light of a waning moon.

A perfect night for star-gazing.

This is the sky reminiscent of my childhood. Our planet, surrounded by the Milky Way, its free-form liquid spilling out of a mythical urn and across an artist’s black canvas, making our planet, at least in our own minds, the centre of the universe. It is said that there are more stars in the sky than grains of sand on the beach and tonight you can believe it. The sky is alight with the sparkle of a kazillion stars, a cape of Swarovski crystals that puts the Queen Victoria theatre’s curtain to shame.

Armed with a torch and a commanding voice that would bring whole navies to immediate attention, the Commodore, our fearless leader, is pointing out the planets: Jupiter, Mars, Venus and the constellations, Taurus, Gemini, Centaurus, Musca. He brings alive the old Greek myths and we watch as Taurus the bull charges across the night sky chased by Orion. A bull in a great china shop. Watch out Aldebaran and Hyades! Stand aside Betelgeuse.

For us antipodeans, our own Southern Cross, or to the Northern Hemisphereites, 'Crux', surrounded on three sides by Centaurus, sits high and proud, its stars reaching out across millions of light years of space to reach us here - at this moment in time, sailing in the Pacific in the pitch black of night. Light that began its journey to us here on earth well before the first adventurers sailed across

Apia, Samoa

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our own oceans; Magellan, Cook and Bligh. These are the stars of our early explorers. They were used to navigate across our world, these are the Navman and GPS satellites of the day and tonight the Sea Cadets standing alongside the Commodore are continuing to learn the early navigation techniques, partly from tradition partly - heaven forbid, if all else fails.

It's such a perfect night for stargazing that we saw something that I have never seen before. Sitting Commodore Rynd - a voice that would below the Cross and above the bring whole navies to attention Magellan's Clouds and floating away from the Milky Way like an ethereal version of flotsam and jetsam is what appears to be a big black dark hole. The Coal Sack, also known as C99. This is the most prominent nebula in the skies - its darkness being the result of dust particles blocking the visible light of the stars in the background. The dark, cold area of gas and dust is 600 light years from earth and 35 years across. Its existence normally masked by an 'everyday' night sky, but tonight in these circumstances, it appears obvious and foreboding.

Beam me up Scotty. It helps reassert the mystery of the universe and why we strive to understand it. Tonight we can't help but stare up at the wonder of the universe and ponder...

What really is out there, and is there life or even someone, something, standing out there looking back at us looking at them and wondering the same thing? Life, but not as we know it.

Although tonight was a special event organised by the ship, I find myself sitting on my balcony most nights, gazing upward. It’s here in the Pacific that you get to really feel how vast this ocean is and how insignificant we are in comparison to the night sky. A sky that we forget exists whilst we live in the metropolis of our big, electric cities, but every now and again look upwards and we can get in touch with PN the wonder of the universe all over again. (ROSS THORBY) F

photography: Axel Mellinger, Central Michigan Univ.

A deck normally alive with light, laughter and dancing, tonight is darkened, quiet and with an air of expectancy.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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1. Locals Karen and Wayne Foster on a recent houseboat stay on the canals in Alleppey, southern INDIA.

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3

Rachel Hughes, Ponsonby local, and Head Teacher at the All Saints Church Community Crèche on Ponsonby Road, recently attended an education conference in Reggio Emilia (RE), ITALY. 2-3. Rachel is also Secretary of the RE Provocations educational organisation which sponsored Rachel's tour. There are two photos from the trip showing her outside the prestigious Loris Malaguzzi Centre, the conference venue.

The other shot shows Rachel outside her stylish Italian accommodation. Of course, the Ponsonby News was there too!

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

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TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

WORLD JOURNEYS: 'CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY' Freemans Bay-based boutique travel company World Journeys is celebrating its 10th anniversary, reflecting on the past 10 years, which have seen significant changes in the travel industry landscape.

Starting off with just the four founders and three staff, they vowed at the time that the team was to get no bigger than 14 people.

Kate says, “We definitely didn’t want to become a big corporate. Searching for the perfect premises was a mission, as we wanted it to reflect our style. The Ponsonby villa we found was ideal. In winter, we had a roaring fire going in the office, and in summer there were plums and apricots to pick in the backyard - the feeling really was that we’d found our home.

"A few weeks later we took our first delivery of brochures from the printer and unloaded them from the truck ourselves. Mail-outs to travel agents around the country involved everyone stuffing brochures into envelopes on long tables in the garden.”

World Journeys’ three initial offerings were tailor-made travel brochures on China & Indochina, India, Nepal & the Maldives and Central & South America. Later that year they added Africa, Canada & Alaska and a range of small-group hosted journeys, which have gone from strength to strength over the years. The portfolio has since extended to Europe, Antarctica and the Arctic, Japan, North Africa and the Middle East. All journeys are meticulously researched and more importantly, tried and tested by the team.

After seven years in Ponsonby it became clear the company needed more space.

Brett says, “The business had grown and, wanting to maintain the personal touch, we needed to employ more support staff to enable our specialist consultants to concentrate on doing what they do best.

The move into The Old St Patrick’s School

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House in Freemans Bay was a mission, including a crane lifting custom-made concrete desks in over the balcony!”

“The thing I’m most proud of,” says Brett, “is that throughout this 10-year journey we have not wavered from our core values of knowledge, experience, and the personal touch. Our clientele is still the over 40s who want unique destinations and experiences all organised for them. These travellers are very busy people, and really appreciate the personal recommendations we can make to ensure the best use of their time and budget."

Chris comments, “The team here is always travelling to ‘new’ destinations to source the best accommodation, evaluate the experience and test itineraries. We need to be in touch with trends and new offerings, and have up-to-date knowledge of the product we are offering.

"There has been so much change in the travel industry over the past 10 years, with the growth in online travel options in particular, so the ability to adjust to demands and meet the market with unique product and personal service has been essential. Clients are absolutely researching online, but then coming to us to ‘sort the wheat from the chaff’, as there is literally often too much choice, and you really need to get advice from someone who has been there themselves. To not only survive in business, but to thrive as we have done over the past 10 years, you simply must offer value. Our specialist knowledge of some of

the world’s most exciting destinations, based on personal experience, is just that."

The future is indeed bright for World Journeys. The company has planned ongoing investment in improved technology and intends to stay at the cutting edge of the industry with enhancements in areas such as social media and product development. “Although the world is constantly ‘shrinking’, we still manage to find some great destinations and product to enhance our portfolio, necessary to satisfy the demand generated by our extraordinary level of repeat business from a very sound client base. We are all in the travel business because we love it, and that’s never going PN to change.” F www.worldjourneys.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

SPECTACULAR SABI SABI There are never-ending surprises in the African bush.

You never know what you are going to see, hear, smell, and that is the thrill of it!

I have travelled to Africa many times, yet each dawn of a new day, each sighting of a new animal, and each setting of the glorious African sun is awe-inspiring.

Whether you're a wide-eyed first-timer or a frequent visitor, Africa will not fail to get under your skin!

Last month I visited one of the most famed private game reserves on the continent, Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve within the Kruger National Park and, wow! This 65,000 hectare reserve is home to a myriad of wildlife and I was able to tick off all of the ‘Big Five’ (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) with ease, as well as many other species including giraffe, hyena, springbok, kudu, impala and more.

There are four luxury private safari lodges within the reserve, all with distinct character and atmosphere. Selati Lodge is reminiscent of ‘yesterday’ complete with antiques from colonial times, whereas Bush Lodge and Little Bush Lodge have a today feel with contemporary African design, and Earth Lodge is the zen-like lodge of tomorrow.

The lodges all offer thrilling morning and evening safaris when the wildlife is most active. During one such safari our tracker Moses found leopard tracks - enough to make your heart race! Sure enough, as we drove deeper into the bush we came across the leopard. She made a low, sawing noise and our guide Joe explained she was calling for her cub. Not having much luck, she decided she needed a higher vantage point and leapt up a tree, had a stretch and then lay down on a branch. The cameras went wild as she posed up a storm!

On another game drive, vultures were circling above us, such an ominous feeling. As we were driving along I spotted what I thought was an unusual coloured rock in the long grass. On closer inspection, it was actually a dead impala on the ground, belly up. We wondered why it had just been left there, untouched. Turned out we had interrupted a leopard’s dinner. Standing just five metres behind us, she ambled up to the impala - bigger than her - and dragged it to the cover of a thicket nearby. It took her three attempts as she had to have a breather during the process, but it was an absolutely incredible to be present and witness this natural part of life in the animal kingdom.

After thrilling safaris, it was always a delight to return to the lodge for some of the most incomparable dining experiences you can imagine. Perhaps a candlelit dinner served out in the bush, an alfresco meal under the stars next to a waterhole or even a romantic dinner in the privacy of your suite - dinners at Sabi Sabi are always memorable!

Simply spectacular, Sabi Sabi and the African bush are waiting to take you on PN the adventure of a lifetime. (ANGELA PIRIE, WORLD JOURNEYS) F www.worldjourneys.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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FASHION + STYLE: JULIE ROULSTON

Ponsonby Menswear Designers: Winter 2017 MARC MOORE Stolen Girlfriends Club (founded 2005)

MURRAY CRANE Crane Brothers (founded 1998)

Winter 2017 collection: The Curse that Flew Right Past You The general aesthetic of this collection is what I’d call ‘Old-Stolen’: a return to the brand’s original spirit. Grungey/gritty/androgynous/dark romanticism. The androgyny is really strong in this collection and we actually fitted most styles on both men and women at development stage.

Winter 2017 collection: AW17 AW17 sees a return to the classic heritage and dressing style on which Crane Brothers was founded. The collection is an Anglo-Italian ragbag of suits, blazers and trousers, knitwear and shirts.

Your favourite piece: I love the Amplifier Jacket. Beautiful sheep shearling and made in New Zealand. I’ll live in it this all winter!

In a nod to designer Murray Crane’s 2005 ‘Game’ collection, this season once again utilises traditional English weaving techniques to create garments in cloths that include Donegal, Bedford twill and classic tweeds.

Your favourite piece of all time: I’m obsessed with the Raf Simons/Sterling Ruby collaboration coat.

What you wear: Day - a skinny jean that is cropped above the ankle seems to work well with dress shoes and sneakers, so that’s part of my daily uniform. And then I’m obsessed with graphic tees - usually a Stolen Girlfriends Club tee, a touch oversized to offset the silhouette of the skinny jean.

Weekend - I usually wear the same kind of outfit on the weekend as I do during the week. It’s always a mix of grunge and sportswear I guess.

Special occasion - I have a great classic skinny Stolen Girlfriends Club suit that I wear with an old Dior Homme butterfly tie - it’s like an origami butterfly. www.stolengirlfriendsclub.com

JOE LEVY I Love Ugly (founded 2008 by Valentin Ozich) Winter 2017 collection: June/July Capsule Collection A warm offering of classic cross-seasonal everyday menswear. From panting to caps, unified by an intimate tonal palette, function-fuelled fit, and an overarching aesthetic we like to term ‘sophisticated simplicity’.

Your favourite piece: it’s tough, but I'd say the Johnson Track Jacket. The ILU interpretation of a classic 80s track jacket.

Your favourite piece of all time: a dead-set tie between the new ILU Rocco Jacket and my Acne Studios Town vintage denim.

What you wear: Day - I’m mega pragmatic so I'll always fuse something smart/simple with complete comfort - currently Adidas Iniki Runners, with the classic ILU Edo Pant, a fresh ILU Easy Tee, and a dress shirt unbuttoned over top.

Sun's out it's a cap, if she's chilly there might be a fisherman-style beanie.

Weekend - weekends are best served super easy -going and chill - sneakers (again), cropped trackies or cotton trousers, another classic ILU Easy Tee, with perhaps a ILU Shelton Shirt over top.

Special occasion - a clean, classic look - Chelsea Boots, cropped trousers, and a fresh, white long sleeve shirt. Tucked.

Your favourite piece: Molly the Dog - the first female model to feature in a Crane Brothers campaign (and the English Wool Blazers).

Your favourite piece of all time: The tuxedo - the best way for any man to dress.

What you wear: Day - suit or tailored separates Monday - Saturday.

Weekend - Sunday dress down: jeans, knitwear and a blazer.

Special occasion - tuxedo. www.crane-brothers.com

DAYNE JOHNSTON Zambesi (founded 1975 by Elisabeth and Neville Findlay Winter 2017 collection: Liberté, égalité, fraternité Classic silhouettes are re-invented and deconstructed, staple suiting is crafted in blackstrap cord and travel weight Portuguese wool, and accessorised with branded belt and braces. Oxford weave pastel shirting in pink and blue is offered in standard and oversize fits. The spirit of the collection is alive with energy, confidence and imagination and proudly made in New Zealand.

Your favourite piece: The August Parka, available in either Black Gloss or Blue Denim.

Your favourite menswear piece of all time: I have many favourites, hard to name just one!

What you wear: Day - Zambesi mixed with imported brands we stock at Zambesi: Raf Simons, Rick Owens, Acne Studios, Maison Margiela, J.W.Anderson.

Weekend - Zambesi.

Special occasion - Zambesi. www.zambesistore.com

www.iloveugly.net

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE Six of our favourite local menswear designers tell us about their winter collections and a little about their personal style.

STEVE DUNSTAN Huffer (founded 1997 “we have just turned 20!”)

Winter 2017 collection: You Are HERE No sleep, nothing to eat and nowhere to park your feet. Huffer winter goes around the world in 19(97) days. It’s experience, not expenditure.

Finding lost spaces, secret cities and inscrutable geographies... Windowpane checks rub up against dusky tones, bright blues and deep maroons. Stripes, heavy brushed cottons and oversized coats are here to help you keep your s%^& together. Causing chaos in the known unknown. Going nowhere but ending somewhere. You are HERE. Your favourite piece: The Rain Shell 2.5. It's a great packable garment that is waterproof but also very breathable, which is key. Great for ducking the showers in Ponsonby or Bondi Beach, where I spend half my time.

Your favourite piece of all time: The first down jacket back in in the early 2000s. This was essential as our office was freezing. I like garments that have a functional element.

What you wear: Day - I mostly wear Huffer and it covers most of my lifestyle but I also like to try out other brands to try new things. Denim or relaxed chino pants with nice t-shirting.

I like crew tops as the next layer in all sorts of different fabrications from merino to premium fleece sweat-shirting. As jacketing is super strong for Huffer, I like to wear an array of different outer layers depending on the conditions, from wool bombers to down jackets.

Weekend - same as above, but a sneaky favourite is socks and slides and then maybe some leisure wear for maximum chill time.

Special occasion - I have an amazing Zambesi suit. Love those guys. www.huffer.co.nz

CHRIS DOBBS Working Style (founded 1987) Winter 2017 collection: Gone Guy. The Gone Guy collection is all about an intelligent approach to the smart-casual dress code. An autumnal palette of rust, moss, slate and burgundy.

Textures and patterns in our new season suiting range that prove you can be formal without being stale. The quality cloth, precision design and superior workmanship that we strive for with every collection.

Your favourite piece: our fawn Perforated Suede Jacket - gets better with age, hand finished with pick stitching and fully lined for the cooler months. Wear it with chinos or jeans for a smart-casual weekend look.

Your favourite piece of all time: Working Style navy Cashmere Blazer. The fabric comes from Colombo, an Italian mill widely recognised as one of the world’s top cashmere producers. It’s an exceptional piece, incredibly soft, light and comfortable.

What you wear: Day - my workday repertoire consists of a cotton chino in a bold colour paired with an understated jacket, always finished off with a tie to add a bit of texture. Suits tend to make more of an appearance as the temperature drops and for days that require a sartorial edge.

Weekend - my ideal weekends are spent on the boat or at the beach so you’re most likely to find me in jandals and a tee. I love vests for their manoeuvrability and warmth, our navy Padded Hoodie Jacket is my go-to at the moment.

Special occasion - for black tie, my current favourite is a Working Style made-to-measure velvet dinner jacket with grosgrain lapels. Velvet adds a level of sophistication to the traditional dinner suit and sets you apart from your peers. I tend to keep the accessories classic and refined - a grosgrain bowtie, discreet cufflinks and a pair of classic black monk-strap shoes. working style.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

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HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL FASHION LOVE

Local designer: Zambesi’s Elisabeth Findlay When I popped by the Zambesi workroom one Friday in May to talk to family matriarch and designer Elisabeth Findlay, she and menswear designer Dayne Johnston are making the final tweaks to the label’s Spring-Summer 18 collection before leaving for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia the following day.

To call them cool, calm and collected would be an understatement - even with the pressure of mounting their first show at the internationally significant style event in several years.

Needless to say, the collection - titled Kaleidoscope - was an unequivocal hit, with Grazia magazine calling it “calming, meditative, and well worth the wait.” The collection's subtle use of carefully considered silhouettes and unique textiles was singled out for celebration, notably an iridescent organza that was used to spectacular effect on bomber jackets, parkas, sheath dresses, a futuristic pleated ruff and in trench coats for both men and women.

In true Zambesi style, black leather double-breasted blazers also made an appearance on the runway, and a number of variations in the theme of navy tailoring. The cumulative effect was breathtaking.

Much was added to my wish list for when it drops into the label’s beautiful store at 169 Ponsonby Road, a space that quickly became one of the strip’s most essential style destinations when it opened over 12 years ago.

Zambesi was one of the first fashion labels to make a commitment to Ponsonby all those years ago, a suburb that was then still mainly associated with eating and drinking. Dayne says that he believes the vibe of their end of the street changed dramatically when Stephen Marr salon was first truly making its mark, “and that end of the street started being associated with edgy and cool things happening.” Liz agrees, saying that she and the Zambesi team saw it as a really interesting and progressive area, “and then when that corner site came up, we knew it had the potential to be something really special.”

Talk turns to their Sydney showing, which is a commitment to their stockists there and a cause for celebration for their Melbourne flagship store. They closed their beautiful Sydney space a few years ago now and Liz says they “really miss being there in a way, because we were there for about 25 years.

"This show is important for us to demonstrate that we’re still in Sydney stores and love it there, and as a bit of a profile raising exercise for us, too. It feels like such a positive thing to do.” They also have so much support from the Australian media, who have missed their ethereal, edgy and always-cool shows. "It’s also a truly international city with a very different audience,” says Dayne, “and that really challenges you to do your best work.” Liz particularly likes the element of styling top-to-toe and en masse, calling the opportunity to show at MBFWA “invigorating and fun but also demanding, and so rewarding.”

“It’s also always about our loyal following, in fact, as much for them PN as it is for ourselves.” (HELENE RAVLICH) F www.zambesistore.com

The amazing building Zambesi now inhabits had been a restaurant for years, but its visual possibilities and customer carparks made it the perfect retail space and then some. The label also had an established clientele in the area that was already making the trip into the CBD to get their seasonal Zambesi fix, but the Ponsonby store allowed for a more relaxed experience that that fitted right into the area from day one. “Ponsonby to me almost has the feel of Sydney’s Paddington in its heyday,” says Liz. “There is such a great sense of community there and people come and stay for a few hours. It’s much more relaxed than our Britomart boutique and our Newmarket boutique, which each have their own vibe.”

Dayne says he’s witnessed the real bond that many of their regulars strike up with the brilliant staffers who work there, a point of difference that Zambesi really fosters. “It’s all about getting to the point where you can speak to the shop assistant and know there’s a real sense of trust there, and you feel inspired by the person who is helping you make some pretty important decisions.” The staff there also has a great relationship with the nearby businesses, like Liz’s long-time favourite restaurant - SPQR. I’ve been coveting several pieces from the AW17 collection that is in store now, a few of which are reminiscent of pieces that I wore by the label many years ago. Zambesi has always been about longevity, and almost a 'slow fashion' approach if you will, which is so different from the disposable style statements we are bombarded with every day. Liz says that she loves how effortlessly customers wear vintage pieces with new, and is passionate about placing a real value on purchases rather than just binning them after one season and moving onto the next bright, shiny thing. Their current collection is quite labour intensive with a lot of careful hand finishing, and it should be celebrated for that for years to come.

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE @ DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND 2

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1. Diamond Pendant (white gold) $1450 incl gst 2. Diamond Ring (white gold) $2500 incl gst 3. Diamond Cluster Earrings (white gold) $600 incl gst 4. Smokey Quartz Ring (yellow gold) $1950 incl gst DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND, 98 Richmond Road, T: 09 376 9045, www.diamondsonrichmond.co.nz

DON’T MISS THE JULY PONSONBY NEWS+ DEADLINE TO BOOK ADVERTISING:

Call Jo Barrett 021 324 510 or 09 361 3356 Melissa Paynter 027 938 4111 or 09 378 8553

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JULY SPECIAL FEATURES URES + VIVE LA FRANCE + HOME & ENTERTAINING + KEEPING YOURSELF WARM OVER WINTER COPY DEADLINE: Tuesday 20 June PUBLISHED: Friday 7 July

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

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

VERNON STREET, PONSONBY 15 JUNE 1925

Dear Blanche,

After a fortnight of rain and wind, then wind and more rain, I’m feeling rather depressed about the garden. Most of my lovely big trees decided last week that it was time to drop their leaves and did so with much gusto. The wind ensured that the leaves went everywhere, and I mean everywhere, and I haven’t had time or inclination to rake them up. Everything else in the garden looks fairly bedraggled and rather unsightly. Just walking from the house to the workroom dampens my mood - perhaps I need to make myself some blinkers.

George is away at present otherwise I know he would come and help clear up.

Once I am in the workroom though it doesn’t take long to cheer up, especially once I have my oil heater on. Mother couldn’t stand the cold when she visited last week, which resulted in a visit to Lamps Mart[i] where she bought me a “Perfection Oil Heater” that has transformed my life! It looks like a pot belly stove but it’s lighter and portable and runs on oil. I can move it about as I work. Bliss. Together with the brown Holland blinds that I recently bought from the Busy Bee[ii] (to keep the heat in), my workroom is now very cosy and I find I can work there the whole day without fear of catching my death of cold.

I’m working on a very smart suit at present and also have two lovely coats on the go. The coats are orders but the suit is an experiment of sorts. I’m trying to reconstruct a sketch I saw in one of my fashion journals. It was only a small picture with very few details but it inspired something in me and I am making my own version of it. The jacket is the most interesting part while the skirt is rather simple and straight. What makes the jacket so striking is that it is fitted at the shoulder line and the sleeves, but the fronts and back are flared. It took me an age to work out how to get the fabric to drape beautifully from the shoulders but I eventually figured

[ii]

+ JuneNEWS NEWS 2017 + 52 PONSONBY PONSONBY PARISH

it out. The front opening is offset to one side which gives it an oriental feeling. In the sketch it looks as if the designer has cut up some peasant embroideries and used them to decorate the high collar, the deep cuffs and the patch pockets. I had a rummage through my remnants for something suitable and found the perfect substitute - an old paisley shawl. I bought the shawl last year from a secondhand trader up the road, and used some of it to make a jacket for an autumn ensemble.

There were enough bits left to use for the collar and cuffs and pockets, although my pockets aren’t as large as in the sketch.

Happily, the colours in the old shawl complement perfectly the dark, stormy-blue-grey cashmere worsted mixture that I bought from George Connell. He’s a local tailor and mercer and stocks the most beautiful high-class fabrics. This fabric wasn’t cheap but it’s absolutely perfect for this suit.

The two coats have been a lot of fun. The young woman who ordered them wanted faithful replicas of opera coats that she’d seen in Le Jardin des Modes.[iii] We went shopping at Shanleys[iv] for fabrics and found a rich red velveteen for one and a lovely black silk velvet for the other. She brought along a very hairy, rich black fur collar and pair of cuffs from a damaged coat she already had - and which she says was monkey fur! To tell you the truth, I think she must have been mistaken as the monkeys at the zoo here do not have long black hair. Anyway I have made the coat, and pinned on the collar and cuffs but have yet to set in the lining.

The black velvet coat is plain except for a luxuriously deep ruched velvet collar.

It’s lined in silk satin and I have only to add a darling ruched pocket inside and it will be finished. She’ll wear this a lot but I’m not so sure about the hairy red coat.

I’ve just made myself a cup of tea and some toast for afternoon tea. Blanche, have you ever tried wholemeal bread? We’ve got a new baker in Ponsonby Road[v] who sells only breads made with wholemeal flour and some with different seeds in them.

I bought a loaf out of curiosity and find that I really like it.

It tastes quite nutty and is really delicious with lashings of butter. I think I’ll be getting more. It is supposed to be quite good for you too - but perhaps not with the amount of butter and honey that I put on it.

Well, my dear, I must finish now or my toast will get cold.

I’m being very ladylike and not eating as I write, as I am very likely to get buttery fingers all over the paper, and that just wouldn’t do!

Keep an eye on the post for your jam. I hope you like it!

With much love,

Maudie xx

[i] Lamps Mart, 296 Ponsonby Road Busy Bee, ‘The Workingman’s House Furnisher at Working Man’s Prices’, 165 Ponsonby Road [iii] French language fashion magazine, published between 1922 & 1977 [iv] Shanleys (drapery), Three Lamps, Ponsonby [v] E. B. De Lacy, Wholemeal Bread Specialist, 86 Ponsonby Road

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

illustration: Michael McClintock

Hasn’t it got cold all of a sudden! You must be feeling it especially where you are. It gives me the shivers just thinking about it. At least you have that beautiful large conservatory which must be so pleasant to be in on a sunny day. And the view of the snow on the hills must give you so much joy. I wish I was there right now, curled up in one of your big seagrass chairs, with a breakfast cup full of steaming chocolate and a plate of buttered toast and homemade damson plum jam. Which reminds me... I have two jars of guava jelly for you which I shall package carefully and post off this week.

Mother’s trees were laden this year so I took it upon myself to unburden her of a few pounds and make my own jelly.

I made two batches, a total of 10 jars, and have given all but yours away. I don’t really like it myself but I do love making it and the colour is glorious. Mother has some amber beads that are exactly the same hue.

FASHION + STYLE RETAIL SUPERSTAR

@ DYRBERG/KERN

Jessica Watson Simon James Concept Store

What brought you to Simon James Concept Store?

I would say that it was the overall aesthetic and creative vision of the company that appealed to me, it's such a beautifully curated space that's so pleasant to work in.

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What do you love about your store?

The people that I work with - Georgina, Areez and Marina are all such lovely and creative people. We are also fortunate that we get to work very closely with some amazing local and international designers, stylists and artists.

What makes a standout retail salesperson?

Good manners, paying attention to the customer’s needs and offering appropriate suggestions that will assist them in making the decision that's right for them.

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Tell us about a memorable sale you've made this year...

We have so many beautiful products, but I think that selling a piece of jewellery by Jessica McCormack is quite special.

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

My best friend who lives in Italy.

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Where do you shop?

I mostly shop online, but when I have time to browse I quite like Ponsonby Road - you can start with a coffee and top off a day of shopping with a glass of red.

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Name someone you think is a great greater Ponsonby retail salesperson...

Apart from Areez Katki I would say Michael from Father Rabbit (next to Simon James Concept Store) - he's professional, polite and always smiling. F PN 6

1. Madu earrings - $89 2. Maya earrings - $159 3. Compliments rings from $49

SIMON JAMES CONCEPT STORE, 230 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 6955, www@simonjamesdesign.com

4. Compliments toppers from $99 5. Conian bracelet - $299 6. Cone/b bracelet - $229

DYRBERG/KERN, 65 Mackelvie Street, T: 09 376 9989, www.dyrbergkern.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

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FASHION + STYLE ONE OF THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS

@ CARATS

Carl Watkins is a previous winner of the Schwarzkopf Hairdresser of the Year award and is one of the best in the business with more than 30 years hairdressing experience.

Throughout his successful career he has trussed the hair for many of New Zealand’s international guests, including Pamela Anderson and Hillary Clinton. He has also worked with the All Blacks, Miss New Zealand contestants and some international celebrities he’s not allowed to name.

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Carl has been at the forefront of many a product launch both nationally and internationally with global brands such as Joico and Schwarzkopf. He also has trained many of the New Zealand’s top hairdressers.

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“I have a passion for making people look good and feel great by designing easy, wearable and current hairstyles for my clients," says Carl. "I like to think I create something special for my clients by adding that ‘little twist’ to the style.”

Carl considers his easy listening and friendly approach means his clients get the best possible advice as well as an individual look.

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“I guess 35 years in the hairdressing industry gives my customers a certain amount of confidence that I will guide them with honest consultation and recommend changes and tweaks that will enhance their individual features and suit their lifestyles.”

Carl is passionate about using his skills to bring out the maximum benefit only a good hairstyle can do and that is provide clients with as easy home maintenance as possible.

If you're not happy with your current hairstyle and are looking for a change, then why PN not make an appointment with Carl. F By appointment only, T: 09 216 5900, Ponsonby Road Salon.

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1. Cupids Arrow 'Hidden Heart' pendant $7500 2. 18ct Diamond ‘Kina’ pendant $11,200 3. Multi-coloured 'Carbonated' pendants $6500 - $10,500 4. Colombian Emerald ring $29,500 5-6. Round Sapphire ring $25,000

Hair by Carl Watkins

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

CARATS, 25 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD, T: 09 309 5145, www.caratsjewellery.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE THE DESIGN POD OFFERING UNIQUE LOCALLY DESIGNED NZ MADE GARMENTS The Design Pod, based in the charming village of Matakana just a 45-minute drive north of Auckland, is home to the design labels ‘Leslie Herbert’ and ‘Ritual’ by Tanya Svendsen.

Establishing her name and reputation as the founding designer behind New Zealand labels - Early Bird Knitwear, Sabatini and Calliope Road, Tanya went on to launch her own labels, ‘Leslie Herbert’ and ‘Ritual’ in 1992.

Tanya Svendsen of The Design Pod, Matakana

Tanya designs from the heart, for women who want to create their own distinctive style by mixing, matching and layering. Sourcing mostly natural fabrics, she has sizing from 6-18 and for an extra dash of individuality, is happy to adjust for the perfect fit.

The Design Pod is unique, with a selection of all-round summer wear catering for sun -seeking clients. The Design Pod also offers a growing collection of warm layering garments, to see women through the coming winter, with a seamless variety of designs.

Tanya’s garments are sensuous and alluring, enhancing each woman’s personality and presence by using luscious fabrics with innovative detailing.

Proudly designed and made in New Zealand, ‘Leslie Herbert’ and ‘Ritual’ labels are recognised for their exclusive styling, quality manufacturing, great fit and ‘wow’ factor.

If you have something particular in mind, simply contact Tanya or just pop on up to The Design Pod Matakana. F PN THE DESIGN POD, 31A Matakana Valley Road, Matakana, T: 021 677 744, www.designpodmatakana.com

NEW ZEALAND FASHION WEEK 2017 28 August - 3 September, Viaduct Events Centre The country’s premium showcase of New Zealand design talent - New Zealand Fashion Week - returns for its 17th year this August at the Viaduct Events Centre.

The event, running from 28 August - 3 September, is a mecca for fashion lovers with a packed schedule of forward season AW18 shows, public shows, seminars and parties taking place throughout the week.

The Fashion Week schedule is looking stronger than ever with a mix of established, new guard and emerging talent locking in their involvement with this year’s event. The week offers these designers the opportunity to showcase their autumn/winter collections to international and local media and buyers.

New Zealand Fashion Weekend, opening 1 September, is the public’s chance to experience the energy and glamour of the biggest week on the fashion calendar. Filled with in-season runway shows, seminars, a beauty hub, discounted designer shopping and a mix of bars throughout the venue, New Zealand Fashion Weekend is the hottest ticket in town this September.

Fashion Weekend tickets will go on sale from 10 July, with the highly-anticipated designer announcement made in late July. F PN The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

BEAUTIFULLY SUSTAINABLE BODY CARE The body care range from Earthwise is now richer and thicker than ever - and full of natural goodness.

Using the purest ingredients such as manuka honey, rosehip, almond oil and coconut, the Nourish range works on the principle that if Nature makes it then Earthwise doesn’t have to. Throughout the range, natural botanicals are paired with amazing essential oils like jasmine, ylang ylang and cedarwood to add a touch of goodness to your daily routines.

The Nourish range is 100% free from harsh chemicals. Instead, ingredients are packed full of minerals and vitamins to make you look and feel fantastic. Add to that the new, sophisticated fragrances and the same, firm Earthwise commitment to safeguarding the environment for our children and our children’s children and it is clear why people are raving about Nourish.

One user said: “I feel as if I am using an expensive product for a fraction of the price and it ticks so many more boxes: natural products, New Zealand-made by a company with ethics and values - and the list goes on.”

So why not try some? Available at your local supermarket and on tap at Goodfor - just bring your own bottle and fill it up! Being kind to the planet has never felt so good. F PN GOODFOR, 2 Williamson Avenue, M: 027 822 6748, www.earthwise.co.nz

ANGELA’S WINTER SKIN TIPS “There’s no better time than the winter to take part in a series of skin ‘workout’ treatments to get your best skin underway,” says Prescription Skincare’s clinical coordinator and senior skin care nurse and consultant, Angela Frazer.

We are all accustomed to the age-old ‘end of summer’ routine, although we have slathered on lotion after lotion, in desperate hope that we can revive and save our damaged skin.

Fear no more, the science of Limelight IPL (intense pulse light) is here, and ready to give skin damage an intensive workout in a few small and non-invasive doses.

Whether it is sun damage, ageing, or everyday environmental damage, IPL is suitable to revive your skin. Lotions are only so effective - shed your damaged skin to let your skin bloom.

The signs of ageing or any sunspots will begin to fade away after these treatments. As the skin regenerates, it brings fresh, youthful-looking skin.

IPL Photo Genesis works by targeting the brown or red spots on the body with controlled heat. This heat destroys the red or brown pigments in the skin as it’s absorbed. The tissue is then naturally removed from the body, leaving clearer skin in its place.

Intense Pulse Light Treatment from Prescription Skin Care is non-invasive and nonablative. This means that the laser targets the bottom layers of the skin without damaging the top layer. The results take longer to occur, but there is less downtime and the procedure isn’t as dramatic as ablative options. F PN WINTER SKIN WORKOUT: Book now and get 25% off a course of IPL treatment. Expires 31 August 2017.

PRESCRIPTION SKINCARE, Ponsonby clinic, T: 09 360 0400, Remuera clinic, T: 09 529 5784, info@prescriptionskincare.co.nz, www.prescriptionskincare.co.nz

56 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SURROUND YOURSELF

with Nature

AVA I L A B L E AT A L L L E A D I N G S U P E R M A R K E TS .

SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

THAMMARAT THAI MASSAGE CARRYING TRADITIONAL WISDOM INTO THE FUTURE Meet Ning, Na and Lena, the massage therapists team at Thammarat Thai Massage.

Ning opened Thammarat Thai Massage after emigrating to New Zealand with her family in 2006 and studying business in Auckland. Ning invited Na and Lena to join her as they too had qualifications and experience in traditional Thai massage therapies, along with Swedish, deep tissue and the more cosmetic spa techniques, IE facials and foot massage.

Lena, Ning and Na The traditional skills of Thai massage which include special stretching techniques, have been passed down through Ning’s mother’s family for four generations. Siri, Ning’s mother, learned directly from her grandmother Mee Yoikrathok, who practised as a traditional healer in a farming area outside of Bangkok. At the age of 12 Ning watched her great-grandmother in practice and absorbed an understanding naturally.

Ning did well in school and dreamed of becoming a doctor until she discovered she couldn’t stand the sight of blood. Later she trained more formally from her mother, who at that point was carrying on the tradition professionally.

Great-grandmother Mee passed away in 2012 at age of 91, so did not get to see her great-granddaughter Ning, as well as her granddaughter Siri, carrying the traditional wisdom into the future.

Three of the tradtional stretches are illustrated in the accompanying photo.

Ning chose to call her business ‘Thammarat’ as it is a word with powerful meaning in the Thai language. It means ‘highly ethical’ and expresses something of the value and character of the Buddhist teaching she follows. F PN THAMMARAT THAI MASSAGE, Unit 1, 49 Brown Street, Ponsonby, T: 09 555 2288, M: 021 056 1395, www.thammaratthaimassage.co.nz

58 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

Traditional Thai massage stretches

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

WELLNESS & WELLBEING WEEKEND @ HUKA LODGE Join three locals - Megan May of Little Bird, Lucy Vincent of Sans and yoga expert Nikki Ralston for a fabulous weekend. Diary date: Friday 15 and Saturday 16 September. Ponsonby News talked to Megan about the event.

This is the first time Huka Lodge has held a wellness event. What was it that made you decide to be part of it?

The location of Huka Lodge is an important reason why I decided to be a part of the event. It’s situated in a pristine natural environment which alone helps people to relax and gives the framework for taking people deeper into themselves. I’m always excited by the opportunity to work closely with people to help them explore their relationship with food and how it impacts their bodies and the environment. The way we eat has such a massive impact on how we feel each day and being a part of helping improve someone’s overall wellbeing is incredibly rewarding.

Have you worked before with the other presenters, Nikki Ralston and Lucy Vincent?

I’m grateful to have worked with Lucy since the early days of Little Bird, and I’ve recently worked with Nikki at Wanderlust. She is truly an exceptional teacher who can take people well beyond the physical practice of yoga.

Working with these two inspiring women is where magic is going to happen during the retreat. Lucy and Nikki are experts at what they do, we all hold very similar values and are all women running growing businesses that aim to connect others with the impact of their daily choices. We all have families and know how important it is to take care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally so we can be successful in our lives and support the people and businesses that we love.

How important to the overall wellness experience is connecting to the environment?

Connecting with the environment is what it’s about for me and a big part of why I started Little Bird, The setting of Huka lodge really brings that home to people with its natural beauty and the immense raw power of that river. Our everyday choices really do impact the environment - be that what we put on our skin or in our mouths, everything we consume has an impact. The thing people often don’t realise is what is good for the environment is good for ourselves as well.

Do you think that hotel chefs such as Huka Lodge’s Paul Froggatt can provide the sort of healthy cuisine that Little Bird Organics is famous for?

To be honest I’m always a little hesitant to work with other chefs as plant-based food has typically not been what many chefs are used

to (although that is changing a lot) so I was really thrilled to meet with Paul and realise we are very much on the same page and he has been playing around with plant-based foods for a little while and personally understands what a difference it can make to someone’s health and wellbeing.

There is no doubt that the food we are going to create together is going to blow people away. Paul is a world-class chef with an incredible team at his disposal. The retreat weekend will be a culinary experience not to be missed. I think plant-based degustations that will look incredible, taste amazing and leave you with a skip in your step. Paul did say I could use any ingredient I can think of... which I’m pretty excited about.

What is most important for you in a holiday?

I don’t get a lot of time for holidays these days and everyday life with our business is pretty exciting, so at the moment I dream of holidays that are low key and provide me with space to reflect, read, walk and swim in a beautiful natural setting. Food, of course, is important and I love going on food-based holidays (but not everyone in the family wants to spend the whole time going to food places) so if I can’t find places that have the food I love, I look up the local farmers' markets and pick up some fresh fruits and veggies there and take a few other things with me so I can kick back and enjoy the environment and people I’m with. F PN

www.hukalodge.co.nz/occasions/events/huka-lodge-wellness-retreat-2017

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

FREE ELECTRIC CARS FOR CORPORATE TRAVELLERS In a major sustainability and innovation joint venture, Europcar and Volkswagen New Zealand have banded with Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland Airports to launch the Electric Day Pass (EDP) programme.

The programme allows regular business travellers who fly into any of the three cities between Monday and Friday and out on the same day, to book an e-Golf for their day of travel, free of charge. The keys are collected at the Europcar desk and the cars are picked up from, and dropped back to, prime parking spots at all three airports.

Corporates such as Icebreaker and AMP have already signed up. Stephen Jones, General Manager Europcar New Zealand says the venture is part of Europcar’s long-term strategy which recognises the future of motoring lies in sustainable outcomes for the planet and consumers.

“People are increasingly aware of their carbon footprint and are taking a proactive approach to reducing it. This is a natural next step for us as we evolve with the market and develop green friendly motoring solutions,” he says.

Scott Kelsey, Head of Passenger at Volkswagen, says it’s exciting to realise just how many corporates want to understand electric vehicles. “We have been lucky enough to work with partners who believe this is the way of the future and are pleased to be able to provide a vehicle which encourages that movement,” he says. “We know how great it is to drive an EV, and now we’re able to offer a really convenient way for others to have that experience. The cool thing about our e-Golf is that it is, by all accounts, just like a normal Golf to operate - it just has a power socket instead of a fuel flap.” F PN www.europcar.co.nz/electricdaypass

RECYCLE WITH KIRKYAMA ‘Many littles make much’. This is true of the very popular over-dyed and patchwork rugs created using the unique recycling phenomena called ‘kirkyama’ which means ‘patchwork’.

From every corner of Turkey come unique pieces of kilim and knotted-pile rugs with colours and patterns harnessing hundreds of years of stories and memories. Over the decades they may become stained, damaged, moth-eaten and torn and so village people work to collect, clean and sometimes unstitch the original materials which are then refined and re-dyed to produce a wholly new work.

These rugs have been a fashionable addition to many home decors and fit well in modern contemporary homes or traditional villas and bungalows. At Mary Kelly Kilims there is a wide range of colours and combinations to choose from, so if you want something that you know has a sustainable element, then these rugs are absolutely worth considering.

Sometimes the rugs are left whole and sometimes they are cut and shaped into beautiful patchwork and so the old transforms into something entirely new which is functional and fits perfectly with today’s design concepts.

It is comforting to know that the useful leftovers from the looms of Anatolia have found a new life and a new story to tell; a recycling project that truly ‘makes a little into much’.

MARY KELLY KILIMS, 53 Wood Street, Freemans Bay, M: 021 211 8904, www.marykellykilims.co.nz

60 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

A 'PREFABULOUS' PASSION In the six years design-and-build company Box™ has been crafting the modernist-style homes that people love, we’ve heard a lot of lip service about the sustainability side of our industry. The truth is construction is still a very wasteful game.

From the outset, Box™ has had green dreams in our DNA. In 2012, we won the Emerging Small and Medium Business Award at the Sustainable Business Network.

And we’re also Carbon Zero certified.

But that’s not really the point. Being more sustainable benefits our clients. That’s why we continue to innovate with a system that transforms the uneconomical, inefficient stick-by-stick method of building to one where pre-made parts are assembled on site. Prefabrication is so darn 'Prefabulous' because it reduces waste in many ways.

Firstly, it saves on off-cuts (we design in increments of standard building materials).

Importantly it also saves time because there are no stoppages for bad weather.

All the trades - window joiners, plumbers, electricians, waterproofing guys - can do their bit in the controlled conditions at the factory.

These pre-finished modules can then be assembled on site more quickly. And with the modernist aesthetic we’re known for, you get a good-looking, functional, warm home with certainty of cost.

The bottom line? Building sustainably makes good home design more affordable.

BOX LIVING, T: 0800 717 717, www.box.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

MARILYN HEMMING - RETIRING GREY LYNN PLUNKET NURSE Marilyn Hemming has been working with Grey Lynn Plunket for over 20 years, but she has been with the Plunket Society for 50 years.

She has worked in most areas of Auckland as a district Plunket nurse and as an educator at antenatal classes, mothercraft courses in high schools and former health and development at intermediate schools for the students and their parents.

What have you enjoyed the most?

I have enjoyed the vibrant community of Grey Lynn/Westmere and the families and their babies who live there. It has been wonderful having the Plunket clinic at the Grey Lynn Community Centre - the hub of Grey Lynn. It is such a welcoming and happy environment to work in and has allowed me to meet people of all ages and ethnicities using the facilities there. It has been a pleasure to work alongside the Community Centre management and the other regular tenants, such as the CAB staff and, of course, the fantastic Monday-Friday morning playgroup which is so ably run by James Doyle.

What memories will you take away with you?

The joy and wonderful memories of the last 20 plus years meeting new parents and seeing their babies grow and develop. Walking alongside the parents as a Plunket nurse as they negotiate the hardest but best job they will ever have in their life. Listening, nurturing, guiding, reassuring and praising, reminding them that their baby is learning what to do too, particularly in those first few months when, as parents, they can be overwhelmed by the lack of sleep, feeding issues and self doubt.

As in all communities, Grey Lynn has its share of vulnerable families and babies who need extra help and care and that is why the Plunket service is so valuable. It has been around for 110 years. Let’s hope it is still here for the next 110 years, as parents and babies will always continue to need help and support during those first five years.

This is when the parents are putting building blocks in place for their child’s future and ultimately the future of New Zealand.

How are you planning on spending your well-earned retirement?

By the time the July issue of Ponsonby News is being circulated I will have been on a trip that I am so looking forward to, to United States, Canada and up to Alaska through the Canadian Rockies by cruise ship, train and coach.

I’ll be visiting Vancouver, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary, Seattle and other amazing places.

When back home, charities I have supported for years are always looking for hands-on help, so no doubt I will continue to be as busy as ever. I will also be moving to live much nearer to my children and grandchildren which will be wonderful.

Anything else you would like to add?

In the process of nurturing your child to grow into their own identity, it’s important not to lose your own. The late Celia Lashlie said “Every child is born pure and filled with their own particular brand of magic.” How true that is. The wonderful privilege that Plunket nurses have is that we go into 90% of homes in New Zealand where children under the age of five years live, so we see every day that ‘magic’ that Celia talked about. How special is that! F PN

MALONE PARTNERS WITH EAT MY LUNCH Paralympic medallist Liam Malone has partnered with Eat My Lunch to help feed hungry children. The Buy One Give One social business is on a mission to ensure no child goes to school hungry.

Liam approached Eat My Lunch’s Lisa King because he wanted to help make New Zealand’s future look much brighter for less advantaged children. “I remember back to when I was in primary school and it was those children that came from tough socio-economic conditions who rarely had any food at school and struggled the most with focusing and engaging in their learning,” says Malone.

To date Eat My Lunch has delivered over 800,000 lunches, giving 400,000 lunches to hungry kids in 46 low decile schools in Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington. But with 28% of Kiwi children living in poverty there are still plenty more kids to feed. Eat My Lunch has a current waitlist of 20 schools.

Malone helped out at Eat My Lunch HQ this week making over 1500 GIVE lunches before heading out to the schools and having lunch with some of the kids. “Eat My Lunch embodies what it means to be a Kiwi by helping our neighbours in need. The kids I met clearly had very little and I think of it like trying to raise productive crops in poor soil. We need to ensure that our children nationwide are fed every single day,” says Malone. The next milestone for Eat My Lunch is the social enterprise’s two-year anniversary on 8 June.

Ponsonby News readers can help make a difference: BUY lunch specially designed by award-winning chef Michael Meredith and GIVE a lunch to a hungry school child. F PN www.eatmylunch.nz

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

HEALTHY PIZZA FROM HELL HELL Pizza has launched its latest offering and it’s been dubbed ‘the healthiest pizza in New Zealand’.

Named ‘The Saviour’ it is made up of a sprouted seed, gluten free base, which has been specifically designed and created for HELL. It is topped with free-range chicken breast, spinach, avocado, Portobello mushrooms, almonds and fresh slaw.

The Saviour carries a 4-star health rating and brings new choice for health food lovers who can now indulge in takeaway food without feeling guilty.

“This is an ideal choice for anyone who is conscious about their diet, health or fitness,” says HELL Grey Lynn franchisee Marty Richards. “It’s also a great addition to our existing range of healthy foods, including salads and vegan pizzas. The Saviour really is the next step for us into the healthy food market.

“Finding the balance between a healthy and delicious pizza was always going to be a challenge, but I think we’ve nailed it. All the toppings have been chosen for their high nutritional content.

From the avocado to the slaw, The Saviour is packed full of whole foods. There is just a bit less mozzarella cheese than you would find on a traditional pizza but this doesn’t take away from the divine flavours and textures.”

Sales of The Saviour have already proven to be very strong and there is a possibility it will become a permanent feature on the HELL menu. F PN HELL Grey Lynn, 280 Richmond Road, T: 0800 666 111, 09 360 0666 www.hell.co.nz

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MINT NUTRITION, FRESH THINKING, JOYFUL EATING, LAUNCHES IN PONSONBY Confused about what, when and how you should eat? Carbs, no carbs, vegan, paleo, clean, cyclic, sugar free, gluten free, dairy free, coconut or not, ancient grains, superfoods, low FODMAP, raw... the list goes on!

Reading information or listening to other people’s advice can sometimes be misleading and inaccurate.

Mint Nutrition’s registered dietitians Estella Leek and Kate Syers have collaborated with psychologists to develop a Mindful Eating Programme, a non-diet approach to wellbeing and weight management, which promises to create sustainable change and to put the joy back into eating. Mint Nutrition uses fresh thinking, real science and individualised treatment plans to coach its clients to feel great in their bodies and to transform their relationship with food forever.

“When we are born we come complete with a highly sophisticated internal appetite regulatory system designed to work with nature to keep our fuel system balanced.

We are also born with an inherent desire for ‘sweet’ to allow us to receive breastmilk with pleasure and gusto, an important survival mechanism. With hundreds of taste receptors in our mouths and in our gut, we soon learn to engage or disengage with foods depending on learnt experiences.

Team that up with emotional associations and you start to get interference with what nature intended. In our food-abundant, flavour-enhanced, stress-evoking world, our intuitive eating can be seriously challenged on a daily basis. This can impact on our health and compromise our ability to manage our weight.

The concept of a diet is an antiquated approach to losing weight. Diets, particularly fad diets don’t work. Research has proven this and there are indications that metabolic slow down can occur with repeat dieting.

Emerging research is suggesting that slowing down eating can create breakthroughs into positive eating. Slow down is not just about the pace of eating, it’s about fine tuning awareness around what, when and how much we eat,” says Estella and Kate from Mint Nutrition.

With a collective 50 years working as specialist registered dietitians, Estella and Kate have had extensive experience working with adults and children with all types of eating behaviour challenges and health issues.

Estella and Kate have seen it all and they know what works for sustainable change. Using a skills-based approach in their eating awareness training (EAT) they reshape their clients' eating with small but remarkably powerful changes.

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This has proved to be of great benefit when coaching their clients with eating difficulties; clients who want to manage their weight, or those who want to improve their health or that of their children.

“Observing and working with clients who have turned their lives around using our methods, confirms our strategies work,” says Estella and Kate. F PN MINT NUTRITION, 22A Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Estella Leek, E: estella@mintnurition.co.nz, M: 021 277 2234, Kate Syers, E: kate@mintnutrition.co.nz, M: 021 550 042, www.mintnutrition.co.nz

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ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE SEEN

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

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EXERCISENZ: EXERCISE FOR MENTAL HEALTH The Exercise Association of New Zealand (ExerciseNZ) says Kiwis with mental health illnesses should be encouraged to exercise but it advises against starting off with extravagant exercise regimes.

Mental disorders are the third-leading cause of health loss for New Zealanders (11.1% of all health loss), behind only cancers (17.5%) and vascular and blood disorders (17.5%). Depressive and anxiety disorders account for 5.3%.

In the 2011-2012 New Zealand Health Survey, more than half a million New Zealand adults had been diagnosed with depression at some stage in their lives and more than 200,000 diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

ExerciseNZ chief executive Richard Beddie says regular exercise is known to have a positive impact on depression and anxiety. Kiwis struggling with mental illnesses should be encouraged to exercise but it is important to start small and focus on enjoyable activities, he says.

“Setting extravagant goals like running a marathon or attending fitness boot camps can backfire and leave you feeling despondent. It is important to keep things simple. Being active for just a few minutes can be enough to make you feel better and should still be celebrated as a success.”

The Government’s Lowdown website - which exists to support young Kiwis aged 12 to 20 to recognise and understand depression and anxiety - recommends exercise as a free mood booster. The site states that for mild depression, physical activity can be as good as antidepressants or psychological treatments.

NZ Exercise Industry Awards 2016 student of the year, 27-year-old Shane Way from Hamilton, has struggled with mental illness for most of his life and is a keen believer in the smart use of exercise to help treat mental illness.

“In 2012, after years of battling depression and anxiety and not accepting or understanding my sexuality or gender, I had a breakdown and tried to take my own life. I was extremely lucky to survive. During my recovery, I analysed how I could turn my life around and this is when my passion for exercise developed,” Way says.

Way has since completed a Certificate in Fitness Industry Training, National Certificate in Massage Therapy and a Degree in Sport Science and Human Performance from Waikato Institute of Technology. He is a personal trainer at Les Mills Hamilton, runs his own massage therapy business, Rejuvn8 Massage Therapy and has a long-term ambition of setting up his own personal training business.

Shane Way - personal trainer “Exercise built up my confidence, self esteem and helped me overcome my mental illness. After exercising I am more positive, energised and feel a sense of achievement. It lifts my overall mood and if I don’t train, my depression comes back in full force.

“Mental illnesses are overwhelming and the wrong approach to exercise can make this worse, so it’s important to start off small.

I recommend people start off with small walks and, once in a routine, try new things like going for a run, training with a friend and even going to a gym or group fitness class.

“I am still battling depression, general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive order. Through working with the right doctors, having an amazing support team and taking the right approach to keeping active, my mental illness no longer controls me, I control it.

“I believe exercise is the best way of battling mental illness as it has personally saved my life,” Way says.

The annual New Zealand Exercise Industry Awards recognise people like Shane Way who are contributing to the health and wellness of New Zealanders through exercise. The 2017 award finalists will be announced in October. F PN thelowdown.co.nz www.exerciseindustryawards.co.nz

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JOHN APPLETON: ON HEALTH

A medical breakthrough for the treatment of Sepsis Every year millions of people around the world die as a result of sepsis and yet many of us have very little knowledge about this very significant killer.

Sepsis is the primary cause of death from infection, the result of a massive immune response to bacterial infection that gets into the blood. It’s a medical emergency that can lead to multiple organ failure and often the outcome is fatal.

Sepsis is always triggered by an infection that can be acquired in the community in hospitals and in other health care facilities. The majority of cases are caused by infections we all know about: pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections like cellulitis and infections in the abdomen such as appendicitis.

In the hospital environment, even the most basic surgical procedure can introduce bacteria into the blood and trigger sepsis.

Until recently the only treatment option has been antibiotics but in the United States there has been a massive breakthrough which has been widely reported on television.

A United States Intensive Care specialist Dr Paul Marik has discovered that by treating sepsis patients with intravenous vitamin C - thiamine (a B vitamin) and steroids, patients who were expected to die are surviving.

The intervention is being hailed as a cure.

Sepsis is a global healthcare problem, it’s the leading cause of death in United States hospitals and up to 30 million people worldwide are affected each year. In the United States one person is diagnosed with sepsis every 20 seconds and 258,000 people die; more than prostate cancer, breast cancer and Aids combined. Sepsis is the leading cause of death in intensive care units and it is a major killer of children with more dying from sepsis than from paediatric cancers.

As we might imagine, the economic costs associated with sepsis are massive because so many patients require time in intensive care units (ICUs). Costs for treating sepsis are double the average cost per stay across all other conditions. Re-admissions to hospital are common and this increases the costs substantially.

Dr Marik’s discovery could be one of the biggest breakthroughs in medicine in decades. Not only has it the potential to save millions of lives on an ongoing basis but it means that scarce healthcare dollars could be applied in other ways.

As I see it, Dr Marik is a brilliant doctor who has been willing to look outside the box in a quest to find answers.

Clearly he has hit the jackpot. He says, “We haven’t seen a patient die of sepsis since we began using the

combination therapy a year ago. We have completely changed the natural history of sepsis.”

As to how long it might take before Dr Marik’s protocol becomes routine in hospitals here, it’s hard to say but when there is a treatment option that is 100% safe, side -effect free and extremely cheap surely there will be very significant interest.

So what can we do in the meantime? As with anything, prevention is paramount. If we all had optimal levels of vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc we may significantly reduce the potential for infection and thus avoid any need for treatment. On two occasions when I have had surgical procedures in hospital, I did a lot of work along these lines pre and post-surgery. Reducing the risk as much as possible is the best we can do to help ourselves.

PN (JOHN APPLETON) F United States Television news story about Dr Marik’s vitamin C cure for sepsis: https://youtu.be/aJKRP8bCvOQ Listen to what ICU nurses have to say about Dr Marik’s discovery: https://youtu.be/adYqbucF8M4 The full interview with Dr Marik can be watched via this link https://youtu.be/yfXVce34A78

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

CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL PLASTIC BAG FREE JULY IN GREY LYNN On Sunday 2 July Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away Group is hosting an event at Pocket on the corner of Great North Road and Turakina Street.

Come along for a fun-filled, interactive event which focuses on education and awareness on how we can reduce our usage and reliance on single -use plastic bags.

The event will run from 11.30am till 2.30pm and will include guest speakers, music, food, activities for kids and much more.

- 95% in most places. China and many countries in Africa have plastic bag bans in place whereby lightweight single-use bags are banned altogether.

Installation showing average number of plastic bags used by each Zealander per year (250). This installation is put up for Plastic Bag Free July each year (since 2014) by GL2030 Waste Away at the corner of Williamson Avenue and Great North Road. F PN Cloth bags designed and created by Grey Lynn 2030 Waste Away Group as a giveaway for Plastic Bag Free July 2016. www.greylynn2030.co.nz

Our event is part of a nationwide campaign where community groups around New Zealand are pooling resources and ideas on how to raise awareness on the damage that plastic bags cause, particularly in our marine environment. Local groups in many areas including Pt Chevalier and Titirangi are also organizing activities during Plastic Bag Free July with a similar message - let New Zealand join the many cities and countries around the world that are banning the bag!

Bangladesh was one of the first countries in the world to adopt a ban on plastic bags after the occurrence of floods from 1988 to 1998 that submerged two-thirds of the country in water. The cause was from littered plastic bags which blocked drainage pipes. England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, many cities and states in the United States and in Australia have taxes in place on plastic bags and this has proven to reduce plastic bag usage by 80

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

MEET SALINA, VIVO PONSONBY’S STAR BEAUTY THERAPIST Salina Sam enjoys working for Vivo Hair & Beauty Salon and loves having fun with what she does.

As a beauty therapist, Salina gets to meet people from all occupations which is her favourite part of the job.

“I love the social aspect of the beauty industry, but more so I get the opportunity to really transform people’s lives,” says Salina.

Five years ago, Salina’s passion for all things beauty led her into this illustrious industry. Her success and talent for the job has made her a client favourite at Vivo Ponsonby and has carved the path for her lifelong career.

Salina’s roots in beauty therapy started with Elite Beauty Therapy in Newmarket, where she trained. Looking back with pride, she tells us about one of her mentors, Judy West - President of The Association of Registered Beauty Therapists, who propelled her passion further and provided her with a shining example of what she wanted to become. Salina then went to work in a well-known beauty salon in Hamilton for two years and then Newmarket for one and a half years.

Salina has really found a home with Vivo Ponsonby and enjoys the opportunities the national salon company offers her. She has worked with over four different ranges of professional skin products and continues to hone her skills daily.

With a prominent focus in tailored skincare, Salina provides her clients with realistic and maintainable home regimes. Her goal is to one day train future beauty therapists and become an industry leader in her field.

Pop into Vivo Ponsonby and meet Salina and take advantage of their SPECIAL OFFER ‘Facial and Brow Shape’, for only $39.

VIVO HAIR & BEAUTY SALON, 282 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 4484, www.vivosalon.co.nz

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

CITTÀ SUPPORTS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Each year Città looks for a way to make a difference with a local charitable cause.

This year Città is proud to sponsor the Habitat for Humanity project, ‘The Helping Hands Build’, in co-operation with partners St Cuthbert’s College and Rotary Club of Newmarket.

The project involves 200 volunteers rolling up their sleeves to construct a house for a New Zealand family in need of better housing. With nearly half of Kiwis living in cold or damp houses, and one in four houses considered to be in poor condition, it is vital that safe, dry and affordable housing is available.

Volunteers from Città donned their hard hats and tool belts and joined the Habitat for Humanity team on site helping to build a home for a family in Kaikohe. Città’s team included members from their stores and head office, plus their very own building expert, and Città’s HR Manager, Emmett from The Block NZ. In addition to their time, the Città team has also made the largest cash contribution towards the build to support the great work Habitat for Humanity do for families in need right here in New Zealand.

The family are excited to have a new house which they can call home. Some of Athena and Te Akau’s children suffer with illnesses related to their damp, deteriorating and overcrowded accommodation. “We are very happy and feel so grateful! This will make a difference to every part of our lives and our children’s health. It will be a new start for us all.”

As well as the timely social issue of affordable quality housing, Città was particularly interested in supporting a charity with a sustainable model for consistently improving the lives of families in New Zealand through housing. Once a Habitat partner’s home is completed, the family makes affordable regular repayments to Habitat on a non-profit basis. Habitat’s rent-then-buy model helps families build up a deposit which they can use when seeking independent finance and buy their home from Habitat. The new partner

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families’ monthly payments go into a revolving fund held by Habitat. This fund is reinvested into the community, as it is used to build more homes for families in housing need.

With so many people struggling to afford rental accommodation, let alone home ownership, Habitat for Humanity’s rent-then-buy model is a fantastic solution to help families get into safe, permanent homes.

Being a New Zealand owned company, Città feels it’s vital to support projects such as this in our community. Margot Acland, owner and CEO, says, “With the home very much a focus for us, it’s particularly fitting to be supporting a project which aims to provide people with a safe and healthy home for life. We feel it’s extremely important to reach out and help our communities, with the overall goal of improving people's lives in New Zealand.”

To find out more about the work Habitat for Humanity does here in New Zealand, click here. F PN www.habitat.org.nz CITTÀ, 4 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, T: 09 972 9293, www.cittadesign.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

WIG WEDNESDAY FOR CHILD CANCER FOUNDATION Wig Wednesday is back: now’s the time for businesses and schools to get behind the Child Cancer Foundation’s fundraising initiative.

It’s easy to participate. Schools and businesses need to register with Child Cancer Foundation at www.wigwednesday.org.nz.

Schools are encouraged to hold a mufti day and get students and teachers to wear a wig (borrowed, made or bought) for a donation. Businesses can hold fundraisers and ask staff to wear wigs on Wig Wednesday (June 21).

Last year over 400 schools and businesses nationwide took part, with over $90,000 raised to help support Kiwi children with cancer and their families.

“We’re hoping to build on those numbers again this year. It’s such fun and easy for people to participate; simply don a wig and make a donation,” says Child Cancer Foundation national commercial manager Jo Clark.

Watch out, too, for well-known Kiwis sporting crazy hairdos. From sports stars to news presenters it will be wigs all round on Wednesday 21 June.

Every week more than three children in New Zealand are diagnosed with cancer and at any given time Child Cancer Foundation is assisting more than 500 families nationwide. Child Cancer Foundation provides one-to-one, personalised support to Kiwi children diagnosed with cancer and their families. The Child Cancer Foundation aims to ensure children and their families are supported, informed and remain connected at every stage of their cancer journey.

As a stand-alone charity, Child Cancer Foundation receives no direct funding from the Government, so relies on the generosity of New Zealanders to support its cause. F PN www.wigwednesday.org.nz

Clothing Alterations

Alter Ego Roong T: 09 376 8689

M: 021 032 9128

182-4a Jervois Road, Herne Bay E: ra_cha29@yahoo.com “I get all my bits & pieces done by the smiling helpful Roong... and she’s got Eftpos = sorted...” MARTIN LEACH

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SARAH-JANE ATTIAS: HEALTHY LIVING

Maintaining a healthy, happy, sustainable lifestyle This month, Ponsonby News is focusing on maintaining a healthy, happy, sustainable lifestyle - a subject close to my heart. I would like to invite the readers to my regular Ponsonby News Health Expert column in for a free assessment over the month of June. Please phone us on T: 09 361 1147.

Can you believe it was 23 years ago when Forrest Gump, the slow but sweet character played by Tom Hanks, entered theatres, and our hearts, with this quote “Mama always said - life was like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get.”

No truer words spoken. You really do want to be healthy and happy; ahead of your game because I'm not sure about you but my world is full of surprises, good and not so good.

So, as we are a complex mix of emotions and physical body, how do we find, optimise and maintain that ‘feel good’ factor for body and mental health?

Feel good, life-enhancing experiences come in many shapes and forms. For instance my partner and I have just returned from the Venice Biennale, celebrating with New Zealand artist Lisa Reihana her amazing installation Emissaries. Lisa has garnered huge praise for her technologically groundbreaking and visually exquisite installation.

The whole four-day event gave a huge boost to our year - alive, buzzing along with 150 other New Zealand Patrons and the Governor General, Dame Patsy Reddy. All that high energy excitement and walking 7km-plus a day, had us super fit! Okay, there was a fair bit of congratulatory revelry mixed in but, I have to say, that combination of stimulating company, elation, walking and fun was perfect. This is a good example of the lifestyle balance that I am talking about.

Let's be clear, mental health has a huge effect on our physical wellbeing and there is plenty of scientific evidence to endorse this fact.

I chose to become an osteopath because I have a philosophy that we are more than just muscle groups, tendons and bones. My treatment approach is a multi-layered model.

As you my client are a complex being, my aim is to have your mind, spirit and body working well as one. Over the past 22 years I have treated thousands of clients using this approach with excellent results.

As an osteopath I work to mobilise and lubricate your spine (improving fluid dynamics within the joint) improve blood supply and drainage, optimising the health of your nerves, muscles, ligaments and tendons. A key quote at Living Osteopathy Clinic is ‘if you don't move it - you lose it’. (SARAH-JANE ATTIAS) F PN www.livingosteopathy.co.nz Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only. If you have a specific health problem you should seek advice from an appropriate registered health care provider. Living Osteopathy is a Primary Health Care Provider registered with ACC and the OCNZ. Living Osteopathy does not accept any liability other than to its clients.

How can this complex link between body and mind reveal itself in your body?

A good example is during osteopathic treatment. Some clients experience results that confirm this phenomenon. This can happen during or after treatment; as we work on releasing tight areas of your body there maybe a spontaneous release of emotions, often to the surprise of the patient. This can manifest in many ways - a sense of euphoria, sadness, tension release and a ‘rush’ of energy or a sense of needing some good rest. Mums' report back with news of baby being much calmer and experiencing that much needed first, real sound sleep.

We use the medical model for assessment, diagnosis and treatment decisions. Then we look at the other layers that make up the total you.

If appropriate, we ask questions about work, time out, diet and simply: Are you happy?

Physical goals - a yoga practice, improving your sports game or simply being able to run along the beachfront and keep up with the kids.

What I aim for is a ‘feel good’ factor for body and mind. It’s important to have a trusted health professional, such as an osteopath, to check in with for treatment and advice. If you know you're coming back for treatment, you will do your exercises, even if it is only the night before! Regular health maintenance catches the acute situations before they turn into chronic dis-ease.

I have mentioned before about how important it is to look after ourselves now, so that as we get older our bodies are in a stronger position to cope if a serious illness hits us.

I think I'm fairly fit and supple, until I have to climb many stairs or head to a yoga class.

What you want to avoid is your body starting to stiffen up. Your joints become less mobile and this places stress on joints, leading to deterioration within that joint. If there is less movement of the skeleton then it adversely affects all your inner organs.

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

PHI THERAPY OFFERS HEALING TREATMENTS TO LOCALS PHI Therapy is a new massage boutique run by manager Samuel Song, located under the new Countdown Supermarket in Williamson Avenue. We asked him to tell us more about what he and his colleagues offer.

Firstly, what type of massage do you offer?

We offer relaxation massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, pregnancy massage, reflexology and soft tissue therapy (remedial), with acupuncture coming soon.

There are so many types of massage - how do you decide which to offer?

We have divided our services into two parts: the stress reliever is designed for a quick boost for office workers during their break time, which helps to reduce tension and stress.

The amazing healer is a very popular choice for clients, combining the benefits of relaxation, deep tissue and hot stone massage to reduce stress, pain and soreness.

Our remedial soft tissue therapy is suitable for clients who have a definite diagnosis from their doctor. This helps with chronic back pain, frozen shoulders and muscle ligament stiffness after orthopedic surgery.

How often should one have a massage?

Twice a month will definitely help to maintain soft tissue which helps your whole wellbeing.

Even 20-minute sessions once a week will make a difference.

Reflexology is a very powerful treatment - tell us more about what it can help with?

Nerve function: Reflexology has been connected with stimulating more than 7000 different nervous endings in a single session, thereby increasing their function and reactivity.

Energy level: Reflexology can increase metabolism and energy creation processes within the body. If you need a boost in energy or are always feeling sluggish, perhaps a reflexology session can help put some pep back in your step!

Toxin Removal: Reflexology has been shown to improve bladder function and to reduce urinary tract issues.

Cancer Relief: Although reflexology isn’t connected directly to curing cancer, it has been known to ease the side effects of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. It helps these patients sleep, it reduces anxiety, and also reduces the chances of vomiting or other indigestion issues that are commonly experienced.

Pregnancy and Menstruation: Beyond that, due to many of the health benefits already outlined above, it can reduce the chances of depression and can also help a woman’s body heal itself faster and get back to its normal metabolic activity more quickly.

Tell us about your team.

Baron. Z Baron was a registered physiotherapist and massage therapist in China. He graduated from the New Zealand College of Massage and has six years' physiotherapist working

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experience and seven years' massage therapist experience. He is an experienced clinical practitioner with muscular knowledge specialising in deep tissue and sports massage.

Season. H Season was a registered physio nurse and ICU nurse in Taiwan. Season was a physio nurse for four years who trained in Australia and now has three years' massage therapist experience.

She specialises in deep tissue treatment, shoulder back pain, sports massage, hot stone massage, pregnancy massage and reflexology. She uses strong techniques for treating soft tissue issues.

Vivian. W Vivian is a Master of Chinese Internal Medicine. She trained at the New Zealand College of Massage as well. She has four years' working experience as a Chinese medicine doctor and two years' massage therapist experience. She is an amazing alternative medicine healer. She specialises in relaxation massage, deep tissue treatment and pregnancy massage.

Kim. L Kim Lee has 14 years' massage therapist and reflexologist experience. He specialises in the chi balancing reflexology, acupressure, and deep tissue massage.

Samuel. S Samuel was a registered physiotherapist and senior massage therapist in China.

He is trained as a New Zealand registered remedial massage therapist, tutored by a seventh generation successor of Shi's Chinese medicine. Samuel is experienced in remedial techniques and offers relief to those suffering from long-term, soft tissue problems, long-term, low back pain, frozen shoulders, sciatica and muscle stiffness after orthopedic surgeries. F PN PHI THERAPY, 9/4 Williamson Avenue, T: 09 378 9089, www.phitherapy.co.nz

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HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY

Natural beauty: consider oils for winter I’m a huge fan of oils going into winter - body oils, hair oils and facials, oils - and love the fact that nine times out of 10, they are also brilliant multi-taskers.

Cleansing your face with one is a given with me, but for many oil may seem counterintuitive, especially for those who associate it with breakouts and the like. It's just not true, and there are more and more great oil-based cleansers arriving on the market all the time that are making their way into bathroom cabinets across the globe.

Cleansing your skin is one of the most important parts of the skincare regimen, and it’s always a good idea to track down a richer cleanser when the temperature plummets. It can definitely help address the dryness that comes with the cooler air and when used correctly can make a real difference to your skin’s health and wellbeing.

Which brings me to my first recommendation for this month - Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil. An extension of the brand’s cult-favourite Midnight Recovery Concentrate, it is a super lightweight yet highly efficacious face oil. Non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic and joyfully free of mineral oil, it gets its slip from squalane. Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil not only efficiently washes away skin impurities such as dirt, oil and sunscreen but also is also effective on stubborn makeup.

I love that the juicy botanical oils in the formula like evening primrose oil also nourish skin and maintain the skin barrier, leaving it feeling soft, healthy and hydrated.

A couple of months ago I was lucky enough to meet the two inspiring women behind Essence of Humanity, a natural skincare company with a difference. Their products are formulated by award-winning natural skincare creator, Stacey Fraser in partnership with Cassandra Treadwell, a powerhouse of a woman who has worked for many years improving the lives of

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communities in Africa with her own charity, So They Can. When you purchase Essence of Humanity products, you’ll not only be using some great formulas but also practising ubuntu - a Kiswahili word meaning 'human kindness' - as 100% of surplus generated from EoH sales go to support the poorest children around the world. The range launched with four beautiful - and affordable - offerings, including the aptly named Extraordinary Facial Oil. A super infused, antioxidant-rich, luxurious-yetlightweight facial oil, it is suitable for even the most sensitive skin and is made up of Kalahari melon seed and New Zealand flaxseed oils to replenish the skin, and mongongo and kiwifruit seed oils to provide environmental and antioxidant protection.

In a previous incarnation, Stacey was also the formulator of the Goodness skincare range, which has chia seed oil at the heart of every product. Chia is not only a healthy superfood, as when you squeeze the little seeds they produce a lightweight omega packed oil for your skin. Goodness Certified Organic Chia Seed Oil uses seeds grown organically all over Central America, and just a couple of drops a few times a day sorts out essential fatty acids, minerals, B vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants and general goodness for your skin. It also doesn't clog pores, so is great even for combination skin types.

A haircare brand that has long treated hair with the same reverence as the skin, it comes as no surprise that Kérastase Paris has developed an all-natural haircare collection that is well in line with global beauty trends - and includes an oil. We have long been conditioned to think sulfates, parabens, silicones are essential if you desire great hair, but for Aura Botanica, Kérastase dedicated itself to responsibly sourcing sustainable,

highly effective and concentrated actives free of all three. Crafted with ingredients like pure hand pressed Samoan coconut and Moroccan argan oils, the Aura Botanica collection is 98% natural in origin, which I love. The Concentré Essentiel Hair Oil uses renewable avocado oil, rich in omegas 6 and 9, and jojoba oil to add softness and shine to hair, while rosemary extract helps preserve the oils. You can use it as a precleanse treatment, to boost your conditioner and even to nourish the hands, nails and cuticles.

Last, but by no means least, I’d like to give a shout out to the most luxe option yet Sodashi’s Arabian Oud Body Oil. Considered by many to be “the purest skincare brand in the world”, word of a new Sodashi product is always a reason for celebration, and Arabian Oud Body Oil is a knockout.

At its heart is the gloriously rich complexity that makes oud the most prized wood in aromatherapy. This is then complemented with the grounding aromas of frankincense and sandalwood, and last up comes calming rose - the combo making for a balanced, beautiful and surprisingly understated yet still-decadent blend. It also works on stored emotions, which oud has a profound ability to release. It deeply calms and soothes the nervous system, making it the perfect tonic for tiredness and stress, bringing about a deep sense of renewal. It brings stillness, focus and clarity to the mind, and it is said that Buddha himself referred to the burning oil as the scent of Nirvana! At $159 for 100ml Arabian Oud Body Oil doesn’t come cheap, but when you consider the fact that at $9200 per kilo, the pure Oud that Sodashi employs in this exquisite blend is one of the most expensive natural raw materials in the world, and well... you are worth it.

PN (HELENE RAVLICH) F

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

REAL FOOD HOKIANGA Real Food Hokianga is fast becoming an important annual event on the Rawene calendar. Organised by the local environmental group, the idea arose initially from awareness of how damaging the industrial food system is and its huge contribution to climate change and ill health.

The idea was born for an event to bring together a wide cross-section of the community to celebrate the amazing food we can produce locally, to share skills and knowledge about affordable healthy food, and to develop awareness of what is wrong with our industrial food production system and how to step away from it.

Importantly, the event is free. Hokianga is an area that is rich in culture, environment and community but poor economically and we are trying to reach people from all sections of our community.

The day included stalls and demonstrations on a wide range of subjects including food growing, cooking with a hot box, drying fruit, lactic pickling, making simple cheeses, sour -dough bread, kombucha, kefir soda, ginger beer, making soup with natural ingredients, healthy salt and more.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

For items needing a starter culture (eg, yoghurt, kombucha, sourdough) we supplied starters so people can make their own. We also produced a free booklet which included most of the instructions and recipes.

The day ended with an amazing meal, mostly from local ingredients, that featured many of the foods that had been demonstrated.

Csilla Ford, commented “What a truly inspirational day we all had at the Real Food Day. It was a wonderful way to learn about food sovereignty, what we can do to help the environment and also connect with people in your local community and work together for the future.�

To share-ideas with the Hokianga Environmental Protection Group contact Janine McVeagh: jmcveagh@orcon.net.nz or www.facebook.com/groups/615079778557408/

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SPECIAL FEATURE:

HAPPY, HEALTHY SUSTAINABLE LIVING

REAL BREAD @ BREAD & BUTTER At Bread & Butter bakery there is a strong belief in making real bread. Bread like it has been made for centuries, before preservatives, additives, ‘improvers’, and the application of industrial techniques left us with the ‘bread’ found on our supermarket shelves today.

The majority of loaves produced in New Zealand today are made using high-speed mixing, high levels of yeast and perhaps a lacing of enzymes to force the dough to rise quickly, rather than allowing the bread to ferment and 'ripen' in its own good time. It's no surprise that many people find this industrial stuff difficult to digest.

At Bread & Butter Bakery all bread is made with certified organic flours, organic seeds and nuts, natural sea salt, filtered water, the fermenting starter culture of yeast and bacteria and most importantly, time. This type of real bread has been part of the human diet for thousands of years and is proven to be one of the best sources of minerals and fibre. You will find a great selection of traditional European breads, wheat-free sourdoughs and lots of different bread rolls on offer.

Their cakes and pastries, savouries and pies are made according to traditional recipes that place utmost importance on taste and original style. No pre-mixes and ready-to-use fillings are used in any of their products. In their pastry range they aim to use local, spray free, and organic produce where feasible and according to seasonal availability.

BREAD & BUTTER BAKERY AND CAFE, 34 Westmoreland Street West, T: 09 378 9111, E: greylynn@breadandbutter.nz LITTLE BREAD & BUTTER, Market 7, Ponsonby Central, Corner Richmond and Ponsonby Roads, T: 09 376 4007, E: ponsonby@breadandbutter.nz, BREAD & BUTTER MILFORD, 116 Kitchener Road, Milford, T: 09 488 7775, E: milford@breadandbutter.nz www.breadandbutter.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TINA PLUNKETT: PONSONBY CENTRAL

CERES FRESH MARKET - 10 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO LIVE MORE SUSTAINABLY Here are some rather easy things anyone can do. You’re probably doing a few of them already.

And just because things are the way they are now, doesn’t mean they have to stay that way.

People power can be pretty amazing. When enough people care and do something, even small things like these can make a huge difference.

Fossil fuels, global warming and greenhouse gasses are all bad news for the environment; but we’re all in this together, and anyone who consumes has the power to change something.

1. BYO bags for groceries Made from ethylene, a by-product of petroleum or natural gas, plastic bags are unnecessary and wasteful. Many stores still don’t charge for plastic bags, giving them out like it’s nothing. Plastic bags clog up drains and landfills. Even worse, they end up in the sea where dolphins end up playing with them and suffocating. Buy a reusable cloth bag and take it with you every time you shop. Skip the plastic bags for products too.

2. Buy organic when possible Conventional farming methods, which rely heavily on pesticide use, pollute and damage soils, waterways and ecosystems. Pesticides can have both acute effects and chronic adverse effects on the health of workers and their families, months or years after exposure.

In contrast, organic agriculture relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions. When you buy organic, you’re supporting the health of soils, ecosystems and people, and promoting a more sustainable environment. Going fully organic is not an option for everyone, but perhaps it can be some of the time.

3. Eat less meat The meat industry generates more man-made greenhouse gas emissions than the transportation industry. Meat production is one of the most environmentally destructive industries on the planet. It is responsible for excessive water use, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and habitat destruction.

By eating less meat, you’re doing one of the easiest and most effective things to combat climate change. Start with one meat-free day a week, and when you realise you’re not withering away from fatigue, go on to two or more. Reducing your meat consumption can reduce your environmental footprint.

4. BYO coffee cups Sure we’re all fiends for a good ‘cup of joe’ but in New Zealand, we bin 1.7 million disposable coffee cups a day. That is, quite frankly, insane!

Get yourself a reusable cup. There are some pretty good looking ones out there. Keep it in your bag, at home or at work, and BYO everywhere you go. Some cafes even give you a discount if you have one.

5. Ditch the plastic bottled water Water has to be pumped out of the ground, packaged, transported and chilled before it gets to a fridge near you. What this creates is tons of greenhouse gases. Invest in a water filter and get yourself a water bottle and take it everywhere with you. You don’t even need to buy a fancy one, reuse a glass bottle. Why waste your money on bottled water when you could just filter your own water?

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

6. Don’t waste food It is estimated that each year globally, approximately one third of all food produced for human consumption in the world goes to waste. This represents a missed opportunity for improving food security, and presents an opportunity for mitigating the environmental impact of this food production.

Natural resources used for growing, processing, packaging, transporting this wasted food produce an estimated 3.3 Gtonnes of CO2 equivalent. Food wastage ranks as the third top emitter of carbon emissions... food for thought.

Use up everything. Freeze old fruit to use in smoothies and when life gives you rotten bananas, make banana bread! Old veggies still taste great if they’re used in stir fries or roasted. Take leftovers for lunch. Plan your meals ahead, and remember it’s better to buy too little than too much.

7. Forget the plastic wrap There are loads of other ways you can package your food, and plastic wrap doesn’t need to be one of them. Get yourself a BPA -free plastic container or reuse glass jars to take your lunches in.

Most meals can fit in a jar - breakfast in a jar, salad in a jar... you get the point. Most health food stores have paper bags, which are a great alternative to plastic wrap.

8. Start a compost Composting requires very little effort and resources, but the positive impact on the environment is huge. Modern waste management methods are less than ideal. Waste sits in landfill sites where the vital oxygen that is needed to facilitate the decaying process cannot reach it. What happens is that this landfill material releases greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

Composting is the active breakdown of foods, like vegetable and fruit scraps, and other materials, like grass and plant clippings, through an organic process. What you end up with is nutrient dense compost that will boost your garden productivity big time. Don’t have a garden? Start one. That’s next on the list.

9. Grow your own vegetable garden Try growing your own food, it’s not that hard. Plant some seeds in a corner of your yard or in a container on your porch or windowsill.

Don’t really have a lot of space? Try sprouting seeds.

10. Commit to buying more sustainable clothing There are figures that show that 100 million kilos of textile waste is thrown into rubbish dumps every year. That’s like every person in New Zealand throwing out about 145 medium-sized men’s T-shirts a year.

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CARING PROFESSIONAL Nadine Isler "I'm a registered psychologist working in private practice in west Auckland and at Anxiety NZ Trust. I'm also a volunteer youth counsellor at Youthline in Maidstone Street. I’m a bit of a foodie and can often be found reading about/hunting out new restaurants - aren’t there some goodies in Ponsonby!"

How did you come to be a psychologist?

I was actually a journalist and magazine editor in a previous life. I found myself in interviews sitting across from people and hearing their stories and thinking how wonderful it would be to be able to do that, all the time. I thought I might be able to offer more than just listening, and was drawn to the idea of working with people to help them make the changes they were keen to make.

What do you love about your job?

I love seeing people reach their goals. It's as simple as that really.

What do you find challenging?

It can be challenging to hear stories of unfairness and misfortune. There's a great deal of that in our world, and it's important to remind yourself that you're doing what you can, and that while awful things happen, a lot of wonderful things do too.

How do you differ from other psychologists?

That's a tricky one! I suppose I would describe myself as very outcome-based. I'm quite an organised and pragmatic person in my personal life and I think that translates to my work. I like to identify goals with clients, and constantly check back to whether we both feel progress is being made, or if something needs to be approached differently.

Can you share an anecdote about a case?

I recently finished seeing a client who felt incredible anxiety and fear of doing things you and I might consider everyday - things like visiting a supermarket or making a phone call. At the end of treatment she had gotten a part-time job and was enjoying trying new restaurants. She had worked incredibly hard and it was a joy to see.

What do you do to care for yourself?

Self care is really important in our field. Psychologists often seem to forget to practice what we preach, and I've been guilty of it too. I'm a big believer in good quality home -cooked food, and regular massages for a treat. I've always enjoyed massage and since my massage training at Wellpark College in Grey Lynn, I also know more about all the scientific benefits of it.

What's your advice to people seeking psychological treatment?

It can be scary to ask for help, but it's worth it. The first person you see might not be right - but keep going until you find someone you can work with. It's like finding

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a hairdresser - the fit has to be right, and it's completely up to you whether you're comfortable or not. F PN www.nadineisler.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION Art teacher’s Top of the World students The head of art at ACG Senior College has a remarkable record of success with his top students.

During 15 years at ACG Senior College Andrew Strachan has had 13 students Top of the World in the Cambridge art exams.

The way Katherine Yang was taught clearly impressed her professors at Stanford. In 2016 Andrew Strachan received a certificate from Stanford University for exceptional teaching.

Ponsonby News visited the school to see how he does it.

I was warned that Andrew is a modest man, and would not be blowing his own trumpet. That certainly turned out to be true, but these successful students don’t do it all on their own.

An hour or so talking to Andrew and looking at some of the winning students' artwork gave me some insight into the man and his work.

We walked around the ACG Senior College well set up art studios, looked at the art on the walls and, as well as Andrew, I talked to Debbie McLachlan who has also achieved great success in her field, textile art. Textile art is a New Zealand - only Cambridge exam, and is not world wide, but Debbie has produced 10 students who topped New Zealand. You can’t do better than that!

Andrew Strachan credits his students’ talents. “They are talented and intelligent,” he says. “I can guide them and give them advice and direction. I can tell them artists they may look at and galleries to visit.

But they have to do the work.”

Last year’s graduate Sophie Macdonnell is his most recent success.

“Sophie had tremendous ability in dealing with form, and with light and dark. I told Sophie on her first day that she had a good chance of doing very well this year if she set goals and targets and never had a day where she wasn’t focused on the work. She wanted to try, and she succeeded. Sometimes she would go home and finish three paintings in one night.”

Katherine Yang was Top of the World the year before. Her portfolio focused on the intersection of art with mathematics. She’s now studying at Stanford University.

“She had the intellectual ability to look in depth at ideas,” Strachan explained.

So what are the characteristics of his students’ success?

We looked at some of the top art pieces in Principal Tracey Dykstra’s office. “He’s incredible,” she told me, “and yes, very modest.”

I asked Andrew to explain his teaching of these able students like Sophie Macdonnell. “Sophie did well when she first came to me in Year 12,” he said. “So in Year 13 we sat down and I told her ‘you could set a target for Top of the World’. I have said this to a number of students.

It’s like a sports coach. You have a talented student, you guide them, get them to extend their work, set targets and keep them at it.”

Andrew gets his class in a circle sometimes, and the whole group feed off each other, giving ideas, suggestions and critiques of each other’s work. "I’m a bit stuck, where could I go from here?" Or "Do you guys think this is working well?" Several years he has had the whole class get A*. That is more than 90% for every student.

Getting the best out of individual students is clearly an art Andrew Strachan has perfected. He gives his students the freedom to find their passion and then, as he says, “It’s my job to help them achieve their goals.”

His Australian qualifications give him a slightly broader knowledge, he thinks. He also has a clear idea of what Cambridge examiners are looking for.

Strachan urges his students to follow their passion. They come back to see him, or email to tell him how they are going. They all say they miss ACG Senior College.

Most have gone on to art and design type areas of work, but Andrew sometimes gets a surprise. One of his former top students - a 98% one, not quite top of the world - is studying forensic science.

I asked Andrew Strachan if he believed that art can be taught, and he said that it could be. “It’s like any subject, you go through the learning steps, gaining knowledge, learning attributes that lead to good art, and study a variety of artists. But you must have a passion to succeed.”

“Understanding form and tone, line and colour, space and depth.

Working from observation and being able to look in depth at an artmaking problem. Strong ideas from the outset. That’s where it all starts. Then I’ll see if a style can be developed from those formal beginnings,” Andrew Strachan told me.

This master art teacher did acknowledge that it was nice to be given a pat on the back, and I’m sure Ponsonby News readers will agree that Andrew Strachan deserves all the plaudits that come his way.

PN (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

Then it’s up to the student, who must have the dedication, passion and discipline for the subject. “And they do,” he says with enthusiasm.

ACG Senior College Open Day, Wednesday 14 June from 2pm to 4pm. www.acgedu.com

Andrew Strachan and a current student The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Sophie Macdonnell’s Top of the World painting DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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MEET THE TEACHER Jenny Linton Kidzshout out of school and holiday creatives community club currently caring for: children from 5-14 years How did you come to be an out of school programme director?

I was brought to this by my passion as a mother of two wonderful, vibrant, creative kids, and my desire to help kids develop their natural talents in an environment they want to be a part of. In 2012 after two hard years of my own family separation, I learned quickly what it is to be unemployed and not gainfully employable, despite 20 years’ corporate experience.

All I wanted was to be with my kids, but with the imminent ‘had to work’ situation, I started to look at care options and soon realised there were none, except to take them to costly, committed and specific activities. I found employment pretty quickly in a pre-school as a reliever and head chef around that time. Bringing a bit of music and vibrance to the centre, cooking up a storm for 40 kids, four meals a day, and making it interactive for the kids, I was quickly recognised by the team and actually for myself the presence, engagement and passion I brought to being around children.

Jenny Linton

PONSONBY STRIKER SCORES PRO CONTRACT

My living situation at the time was in an apartment complex and I was alerted to the fact that so many kids, particularly moving into intermediate years' dropped out of traditional after-school care and were of an age that it was 'okay' to return home alone for the remainder of the after-school hours. I was proactively involved with my own kids and their group of friends where we would often take their general play and activities to a more creative level. It was apparent to me that kids are great at many things and often their ability is taken for granted or not acknowledged or captured due to lack of presence, engagement and certainly a lack of a 'place or space' for them to be part of... this became the foundation of kidzshout. I began the journey of creating kidzshout creatives community club from conception to execution on 1 February 2016.

For Myer Bevan, one of Ponsonby’s many football-obsessed young men, these past 12 months have been one heck of a ride.

Where did you train?

I developed the business in 2012 in conjunction with the OSCAR (Out of School and Recreation) body and training with CYFS.

Bad night notwithstanding, the very next day Myer fronted up at Mt Smart Stadium as a candidate for the Nike ‘Most Wanted’ Challenge with renewed hope. By the end of a gruelling six-hour day on the field, he was selected by Nike NZ Head Scout Danny Hay as the New Zealand representative from 80 elite football players (whittled down from an original list of over 200 applicants) to progress to the next stage: a further training camp in France with dozens of Most Wanted winners from around the world.

What are your favourite things about being an after-school programme director?

Offering inspiration and aspiration through projects and creative play, and watching the kids thrive in the free-spirited but managed environment that we provide. To know that the kids know what this club is all about: it’s their opportunity to engage in projects, learn from each other, mentor, be part of the kidzshout club that they are creating and being 'the great kidzshout kids on the block'. Seeing the success of the club grow: from opening the doors just over a year ago, on a buck or two, with no enrolments, now a thriving business prospect. Genuine love for my job and undertaking to make a great life for my own kids!

What has been a highlight of your career with kids?

More enrolments, but beyond that, watching the kids that don’t want to leave at 5pm - some cry as they want to stay longer!

And a low point?

Realising how much I depend on this success, that it is a business and I rely on it for my income. I simply wouldn’t want to do anything else.

How would you colleagues describe you?

Caring, driven, hard working, devoted, fun.

How would your kids describe you?

Creative, funny as heck, artistic, inventive, annoying (my son), protective and easy to talk to, daft.

If you could wave a magic wand at kidzshout...

There would be more kidzshout clubs around every neighbourhood and more engagement from community members.

Five tips for mums and dads of primary school kids 1. Patience 2. Confidence 3. Inspiration 4. Encouragement 5. Praise... always!

Kidzshout out of school and holiday creatives community club, 21 Meola Road, Westmere, M: 027 429 0010, www.kidzshout.co.nz

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One Friday night In May last year Myer played what was, for him, the worst game of his life for Western Springs Football Club. Not only did he play badly but his team was soundly beaten and he scored an ‘own goal’ - the first of his career.

Myer undertook a three-day elite training and fitness camp held at France’s National Football Academy. On the final day of the camp, to his utter delight, Myer was offered a much -coveted place at The Nike Academy in England. During his time there he quickly earned a place in the academy team’s starting line-up, facing professional age group club teams from England and Europe, scoring 25 goals in 25 appearances, and captaining the team to a 4-1 win in one of his final performances.

Myer’s growth as a player at The Nike Academy also led him to be rewarded with selection to the New Zealand Under 20 squad for their World Cup qualifying tournament in Vanuatu in September 2016. Myer won both the Golden Boot trophy for the tournament’s highest goal scorer, and the Player of the Tournament award, surprising even himself with the accolades.

Without a United Kingdom Visa or any European ancestry ties, Myer learnt in April 2017 that his time at The Nike Academy was nearing its end, with little hope of him securing a professional contract in Europe. Clubs and scouts wanted to see him on trial, but lost interest when they discovered that his nationality would be tricky to overcome. However, Myer’s belief and perseverence prevailed, and towards the end of his 12-month stay at the Nike Academy, with the help of local Ponsonby football agent Grant Machin, Myer was invited on a two week trial with the Vancouver Whitecaps - a team playing in the United States' Major League Soccer competition. After six days training with the Whitecaps’ reserve team and Under 18s, the franchise’s head coaches and scouts were sufficiently impressed with Myer to offer him a professional contract to their USL squad (the feeder team to their MLS first team), allowing him to fulfil his lifelong dream of becoming a professional football player.

Today, Myer is in South Korea, playing his role as striker for his national team at the Under 20 World Cup, wearing his favourite number 19 shirt, and living the dream he first conjured up in 2002 as a Springs five-year-old footballer of one day pulling on his nation’s white jersey. So the next time you think you’ve had a bad Friday and you should PN just give up, think again. F PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION KING’S SCHOOL UNDERSTANDS BOYS Tony Sissons has been inspiring boys at King’s Prep School for over 12 years. A board member of the International Boys’ Schools Coalition, he is passionate about the future of boys in our country.

Tony is passionate about getting boys to read books. The biggest challenge of all is to create a lifetime love for reading for all his students.

“Boys especially need encouragement to develop a love of literacy at a very early age, say at five years or six years old. They learn the skills of how to listen, how to enjoy reading and how to ask questions as early as possible. They learn to understand and use language to express their ideas, thoughts and feelings, and to communicate with others. We read aloud to our students every day. We need to cater to each child’s individual needs and encourage them to read for enjoyment.

Research tells us that the more you can teach young children at a very early age, such as learning to play an instrument or learning another language, the more the pathways in their brains will open and the more they will grow in self confidence,” says Tony.

Headmaster Tony Sissons with the boys

Children starting at school, learn best in small groups where they feel confident to ask questions and to grow. This is why Tony is passionate about keeping the staff to student ratio at 1:11 at King’s School - so that when boys are very young, they not only develop a strong relationship with their teacher, but also can learn at their own pace.

Tony believes it is vital that they give boys the very best start in education.

That they set them up for life by giving them the tools they will need to meet the demands of the future.

“We don’t know what careers our young children will have tomorrow, or what they may look like, but what we do know is that they will need some important skills in the future - such as being resilient, being adaptable, being empathetic, being able to communicate well,” says Tony. F PN KING’S SCHOOL, 258 Remuera Road, Remuera, T: 09 520 7770, www.kings.school.nz

Reading is fun

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LOOK... WHO IS IN THE ZOO!

Team effort for turtles “No turtle species breeds on New Zealand beaches, so whenever a marine turtle is discovered washed up on our shores, we know it’s a turtle in trouble,” says Auckland Zoo resident veterinarian Lydia Uddstrom.

Lydia, who has had a passion for marine life since childhood, is part of a team of people who have been helping care for a juvenile Hawksbill turtle that was discovered on Northland’s 90 Mile Beach in early May. Rescued and put on a flight to Auckland by Department of Conservation (DOC) staff, this poorly marine mammal was picked from Auckland airport by Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium staff and brought to Auckland Zoo for emergency treatment.

“Fortunately, despite being weak and dehydrated, low in body weight, and having an amputated front-left flipper, this turtle was remarkably bright and alert. We were able to slowly warm him up (we’re saying ‘him’ for now, but we are still to confirm the sex) to get his body working, and also tube-feed him to help him regain energy and eventually put on condition,” says Lydia.

Auckland Zoo resident vet Dr Lydia Uddstrom looks at an X-ray of the young Hawksbill turtle

“It’s been really heartening to see him improve. And while very good that he could poo it out, what was not heartening was discovering a piece of plastic in his faeces - which highlights the worldwide problem of plastic pollution in our marine environments,” adds Lydia.

Auckland Zoo vet centre staff work in collaboration with Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium to treat and rehabilitate sea turtles that usually hail from warmer, tropical waters, but can wash up on our shores if they are weak of suffering from injury or illness.

The zoo’s vet centre acts as an A & E and critical care. It fully assesses, treats and stabilises the turtles. Once well enough, they are relocated to Kelly Tarlton’s where our colleagues there assist them with long-term rehabilitation for (all going well) eventual release back to the wild. The zoo vet team, now the supplier of all veterinary services to Kelly Tarlton’s, continues to assist as required, including doing essential pre-release health checks.

Lydia says exactly how this beautiful Hawksbill lost its front-left flipper will never be known, but explains that it appears to have fully healed and likely happened when it was very young, as its body has curved and adapted to this injury. It also still appears to be able to swim strongly.

Despite an amputated left-front flipper, this rescued Hawksbill is still able to swim strongly

“Overseas, there have been cases of turtles with injuries like this being released back to the wild, but we’ll want to be sure it will have a strong chance of survival before any such decision here. One of the things we’ll do to help with this is a CT scan. This will give us a 3-D image of this turtle and enable us to get a good look at its internal organs, and check the structure of its shell and see how it has adapted to not having this flipper,” says Lydia.

Named for its narrow pointed beak, and famous for its stunningly patterned shell, the Hawksbill is found in tropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans - predominantly in coral reefs. It feeds mainly on sponges and plays a vital role in helping maintain the health of coral reefs and sea grass beds.

“These are stunning and really important marine reptiles, but sadly they are now Critically Endangered,” says Lydia.

“Their plight is in large part the result of habitat loss and human impact, including plastic pollution, as well as the illegal harvesting of its shell for the making of jewellery and shell ornaments. We need these turtles in their marine environment, not in a piece of jewellery being sold on the streets!”

The piece of plastic discovered in the Hawksbill turtle’s faeces to better assess the likelihood of their rehabilitation through to release back to the wild. Understanding the health of marine turtles is critical for the preservation of these endangered species at the individual and population scale, as well as aiding us in early detection of negative change in the broader marine ecosystem,” explains Lydia.

You can help sea turtles • If you come across a marine turtle on a beach anywhere in New Zealand, contact your local DOC office on 0800 HOT DOC (0800 362 468)

Important research In her role as Auckland Zoo’s resident veterinarian, Lydia is currently undertaking her professional doctorate (through Murdoch University, Perth) the subject of which is sea turtles in New Zealand.

• When travelling overseas, never buy turtle shell jewellery or ornaments

“I’m assessing the pathology of these sea turtles that come to New Zealand - both those that do and do not survive. This will allow us to look at what we should be evaluating

• Choose wisely: Use reusable eco-shopping bags to reduce your use of plastic and, ideally, say no to plastic.

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• Get involved: help with a local beach clean-up Visit www.sustainablecoastlines.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FURRY AND FABULOUS - $500 PRIZE ANGELA BEER: ANIMAL LOVER

PETS AND PATS LUXURY DOG DAYCARE AND FARMSTAYS Welcome to Dog Disneyland, a 20-acre farm, 18 minutes from Ponsonby, where your dog can do as much or as little as they like, all in the safety of their own private, gated, secure, country estate. We pick up and drop off to your home/office.

Pricing from $40. Free $195 complimentary voucher for you to use for a no-obligation trial.

Daycare: We look after a small, discerning number of local families. We are like the private school of dog daycare. We have the largest and best facility in the country with the smallest numbers of dogs, the largest indoor and outdoor spaces and lots of one-on-one individual attention with our highly skilled staff. Kids can swim, play, unwind in our play paddocks, bushwalks, tennis courts, pool and cinema lounge.

Farmstays: We only have eight VIP guests staying per night and they sleep inside our luxury farmhouse with all the creature comforts they enjoy at home. When looking for care for your beloved pet, here are some questions I encourage parents to ask when interviewing potential places/services.

1. Ask how many dogs are in your facility/care?

2. Ask what is the staff to dog ratio and what qualifications do your staff have? So you can ensure your dog is getting quality one-on-one attention.

3. Ask what does my dog do in your care? Find out how much time is spent in cages or inside vs how much time exercising/playing, etc.

4. Ask what onsite care is available when my dog is with you. It’s not uncommon for some places when dogs are put to bed from 4pm to not have anyone living on site during the night. You should also ask how close is the nearest vet.

5. If using a dog walking service, ask where do you walk my dog, is it safe, how many dogs do you take out at a time, how long is my dog travelling in a vehicle for, what happens if there is an accident? Do you have insurance should anything happen to my dog or my home?

At Pets and Pats, we understand dogs are our best friends and cherished members of our family, they deserve nothing but the best. If you’d like to try the Pets and Pats experience, please call for your $195 free complimentary voucher. We look forward to welcoming you.

Dog HQ: Herne Bay; Country Estate: Dairy Flat. M: 021 539 699, angela@petsandpats.com facebook.com/petsandpats

SPCA ANIMALS LOOKING FOR HOMES

Scout

Rachelle The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Mello

Champagne

Freya

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

Celine Cummins and Flo Celine Cummins is the designer of boutique fashion label Celine Rita: “We specialise in bridesmaids dresses for the modern bride as well as pieces to wear to any special occasion.”

The Celine Rita showroom is on St Benedicts Street in Eden Terrace.

How old is Flo? What breed is she?

Flo will be six in July. She is ¾ shih tzu, ¼ toy poodle.

How long have you had Flo? Since she was seven weeks old.

AUCKLAND MARATHON WITH TEAM SPCA 29 October

Calling all fitness enthusiasts. If you are looking for your next challenge to work towards, why not sign up to run the Auckland Marathon with Team SPCA and help save lives with every kilometre.

Each year, thousands of sick, abused and abandoned animals need our help. By joining our team, you can help us to rescue animals in need and provide them the shelter, love and care they deserve.

No matter what your fitness level, there’s a challenge for everyone to get stuck into. If you don’t fancy running the full marathon but still want to get involved, there’s also the option of the half-marathon or 12km traverse and you'll still be saving lives with every step.

How did you choose her?

I was looking around pet shops just researching breeds that met my checklist - small, didn’t molt, good with kids and older people. She was too ridiculously cute to leave there, and ticked all the boxes.

There are two ways you can support the animals with your Auckland Marathon participation.

How did Flo get her name?

My (now) husband was heading away to play rugby in Florence for a season. The deal was, he had to buy me a puppy before he left. So her full name is Florence, and Flo for short.

Or, alternatively, if you’re not up to the challenge of raising $1200, you can purchase your own ticket and choose your own target. You will also receive some extra goodies along the way, as well as some fun on-the-day SPCA activities.

What is your favourite thing to do together?

We are rarely apart. We know all of the local spots that are Flo friendly, and we love meeting up with girlfriends for a coffee or wine to people/dog watch. We also love getting out of the city to Matarangi for cruisey walks and swims on the beach, or to visit my parents in Karaka, where she has lots of grass to play on and noises to interest her. She loves Celine Rita photoshoot days, often featuring in a couple of photos.

You could choose to become a Charity Hero runner and pledge to raise a minimum $1200 for SPCA Auckland. In return you will receive your ticket entry for free, be invited to an exclusive event at the SPCA Auckland Animal Village and receive heaps of other extra goodies.

So, go on, join Team SPCA now and not only will you prove your prowess but you’ll also save lives with every step. F PN Register your interest at www.spcaauckland.org.nz/aucklandmarathon2017

Does Flo have any friends?

Flo definitely prefers the company of humans, she loves visiting all her favourite people.

Jett, (another shih tzu cross) who lives right on her fave park - Basque Park - is one of her only dog friends, but she loves going to see him at the park.

What does Flo like to eat?

She eats Raw Essentials meat, but is a little bit spoilt: she also loves ice-cream, cheese, salmon and chicken. F PN CELINE RITA, 136 Newton Road, Eden Terrace, www.celinerita.com

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: LOGAN GRANGER

GST on services performed for non-residents in connection with land THE NEW GST CHANGES THAT CAME INTO EFFECT AS OF 1 April 2017 will affect services provided to non-residents

by New Zealand resident professional consultants and advisors such as accountants, estate agents, architects, lawyers, engineers and any other service provider in relation to land.

Under law before the recent changes, services provided to offshore - located non-residents by New Zealand professional consultants and advisors have been zero rated if the services are received when the non-resident recipient is outside New Zealand even if the work related to land is within New Zealand.

Inland Revenue has revised its approach to what ‘directly in connection with land means’, and as of 1 April 2017 many previously zero-rated services to non-residents will be subject to GST at 15%.

Services to non-residents are now subject to GST where there is a direct relationship between the purpose or objective of the services and the land.

The Inland Revenue Department has stated that from 1 April 2017, GST at 15% will apply to services supplied to non-residents where: “...the services are supplied directly in connection with land situated in New Zealand, or with an improvement to such land, or are supplied in connection with such land or improvement and are intended to enable or assist

a change in the physical condition, or ownership, or other legal status, of the land or improvement.”

If the services are not related to a designated property the services are not directly in connection with the land.

In addition, when the part of the service that relates to the land is only an incidental aspect of the supply it is not directly in connection and zero rating can apply.

The following examples provided by the IRD are illustrative of services that will attract GST at 15% or 0%.

15% GST • Assessment of the risk or integrity of land • Intermediation in the sale or lease of land, including by real estate agents and property managers • Architectural or design engineering services that relate to a particular site, including the drawing up of plans for a building or part of a building • Conveyancing or legal services relating to transactions involving the transfer of title to land or the establishment or enforcement of an interest in land (eg, drafting of land sale and purchase agreements, lease agreements or construction contracts) • Legal services that relate to drafting of an option to acquire land or security over land • Assisting a non-resident with their IRD number application as part of the land conveyance process

• Trust deed variations, changing the trustees and /or beneficiaries of a trust that owns land in New Zealand - dependent on ‘nature of variation’ • Conveyancing, architectural or legal services in relation to a land transaction that failed to go ahead - dependent on ‘intended test’ Zero rated • Tax advice on a transaction involving land • Advice on the tax implications of investing in property generally • Advice or information about property prices or investment in the property market in general • Market research relating to the economic viability of a particular project • Architectural services which do not relate to a particular site Invariably there will be many situations which will be debatable and where professional judgement and advice will need to be obtained. We strongly recommend seeking the advice of a professional should the above tax law changes affect you. (LOGAN GRANGER) F PN Disclaimer - While all care has been take, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the content of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, 202 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 6701, www.jacal.co.nz

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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: METROLAW GOT A LEGAL QUESTION? ASK MICHAEL@METROLAW.CO.NZ

Email Michael with your question and include PONSONBY NEWS in the subject line. Michael Hemphill, a partner of the firm, will answer one topical question each month.

Q: A:

We have a trust that we set up a few years ago when we bought our home.

We haven’t done anything with it for years. Our lawyer is now retiring and I’m wondering whether there are things we need to know or check to make sure it’s all set up properly. Chris, Grey Lynn.

There are a number of things to check.

First, have a look at the trust deed and make sure that the beneficiaries are listed correctly. There may be new people in your family that you want to include or equally people that no longer belong there.

Next check to see who has the power of appointment of trustees in the trust. This person ultimately has power over the trust because they can hire and fire the trustees. I have had clients where the accountant who set up the trust held this power of appointment and still held it even though the client had switched accountants and lawyers. Some trust deeds have a 'protector' who maintains control over some powers or changes to the trust.

You should make sure that the trust documents and your wills complement each other.

Does the trust deed allow you to pass the power of appointment in your will? Have you done this in your will? Does your will try and deal with any assets that are actually owned by your trust? I have seen wills that leave an interest in a property which will not form part of the person’s estate because the property is owned in their trust. Another common area of confusion is insurance, who owns the policy, you, your spouse or your trustees?

Have you checked to see that all your gifting to your trust has been completed? There have been significant changes to the gifting regime.

It is worth reviewing the gifts made to your trust and checking to make sure that this has been completed properly and that there have been no further advances to the trust.

Sometimes people buy and sell a number of properties through their trust and each of these transactions may have an effect on the debt owed back to them by the trust.

Make sure that you have a copy of the trustee resolutions and the lawyer’s trust account statement for each property transaction. Lawyers are only required to keep files for a set period of time and it can become difficult to re-create transactions.

Call us if you need any help, good luck. (MICHAEL HEMPHILL) F PN Disclaimer - this article is for general information purposes only. If you have a legal problem you should seek advice from a lawyer. Metro Law does not accept any liability other than to its clients and then only when advice is sought on specific matters.

METRO LAW, Level 1, 169A Ponsonby Road, T: 09 929 0800, www.metrolaw.co.nz

86 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

@ FREEDOM 1. Freedom Furniture Fifties Buffet (walnut) - $999 Crafted from solid, walnut-hued timber, Freedom’s Fifties range will add style and functionality to the living space - adorn this piece with family photos or use to support a statement piece of artwork.

2. Freedom Furniture Fifties Coffee Table (walnut) - $499 The tapered legs, bevelled edges and glam gold detailing of Freedom’s Fifties Coffee Table fuses mid-century style with a modern vibe for a unique piece of furniture that is best accompanied by a good cup of coffee and relaxing moment on the sofa.

3. Freedom Furniture Fifties Table with Marble Top - $2299 This marbled beauty adds sleekness and charm to the dining room and is a comfortable size for both family gatherings and intimate dinners for two.

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4. Freedom Furniture Fifties Side Table (walnut) - $329 Add a touch of elegance to the living space or sleeping zone with Freedom’s Fifties Side Table - complete the look with a mid-century-inspired table lamp and a classic book.

Check out the collection online at www.freedomfurniture.co.nz or head into your local Newmarket, Sylvia Park, Westgate, Botany (pop-up), Wairau Park or Albany stores.

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IN STOCK NOW

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

@ FORMA 1. Forma Fleur sofa frame - $3425 + fabric. Sleek fine lines combined with luxurious feather comfort.

2. Forma Florence chair - $2030 + fabric.

3. Forma Foam cubes - $300 each + fabric.

4. Forma Cascade coffee table - $1550. Powder-coated aluminium.

Available in black, white or silver and custom sizes. Suitable indoors or out.

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FORMA, 51-53 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 368 7694, www.forma.co.nz, ww.facebook.com/formafurniturenz

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STREET NAMES: THE HISTORICAL BOROUGH OF PONSONBY AND GREY LYNN

Pompallier Terrace Jean Baptiste Pompallier was born in France in 1801.

He received an education befitting a gentleman and for a short time served as an officer in the dragoons or infantry who rode horses instead of marching, but a higher call drew him to the church so he entered the Lyons seminary in 1825, was ordained in 1829, and served for seven years in the archdiocese before being consecrated titular bishop in 1836. He was chosen by Pope Gregory XVI to head a mission in Western Oceania so with four priests and three brothers of the Society of Mary, Pompallier sailed from Le Havre in 1836. Two missionaries disembarked on two Pacific Islands, one priest died of fever on the voyage so with one remaining priest and one brother he reached the Hokianga in 1838 where some Catholic families lived. Kororareka, now named Russell, was to be his headquarters for the next 30 years and the house he built there still stands today.

Captain Hobson invited him to attend the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi from which he absented himself but gained an assurance from Hobson that there would be religious freedom in the colony.

There was some opposition to Pompallier’s arrival because settlers feared French annexation but his courage and dignity impressed many Maori leaders, which helped him overcome European suspicions. Those few early missionaries encountered language difficulties as none of the three were conversant with either Maori or English but Pompallier was quick to master both.

Over six feet tall he was an imposing figure and his personal charm endeared him to Irish catholics in the area. Jean-Claude Colin, founder of the Society of Mary, later called the Marist Brothers, gave generous aid to Pompallier enabling him to establish mission stations in several North Island settlements, where he walked long distances overland to visit them. While setting up these missions Pompallier made four voyages down the east coasts of both islands reaching Otago where again he explored the hinterland. There were unfounded allegations that French missionaries were encouraging insurgency among Maori chiefs in Northland but Governor Grey investigated these claims and completely cleared Pompallier and his priests of any such subversion.

Unfortunately Pompallier was an inept administrator and overreached himself financially.

On his mandatory visit to Rome in 1846 it was obvious to church authorities that it was time for him to end his association with the Marists and that the missions were to be divided with into two dioceses, one in Auckland with Pompallier in charge and another in Wellington staffed by the Brothers. Pompallier was absent from New Zealand for four years as he travelled extensively throughout Europe gathering funds and personnel for his new diocese. He finally arrived back with two priests, 10 seminarians and eight Irish Sisters of Mercy. In his absence the Catholic population in the Auckland region had doubled, but the Maori missions in the North had collapsed because of the Northern war and the antipathy it generated towards Europeans.

On his return Pompallier finished training his clergy and after their ordination they were sent to the missions vacated by the Marists. He remained in Auckland where the Catholic Church made steady progress due to the strong united team he formed with the Sisters of Mercy. He sailed again to Europe in 1859 and returned with eight Fransiscans eight seminarians and four French women intended for his new order, the Sisters of the Holy Family. Though a british citizen since 1850, he stayed neutral during the 1860s wars but had to watch helplessly as Maori Catholics drifted away.

PROJECT GLOW WEAR COMES TO AUCKLAND Creatives across the country have five weeks to get their designs to Wellington to be judged in the second annual Project Glow Wear, the reflective design competition all about illuminating people on bike and foot.

This year the competition has a twist, as Auckland Transport has joined Wellington sponsors and will host a runway show in Auckland. The competition challenges designers and creatives to take every-day clothing and make it avant garde. All entries must include reflective elements that highlight the wearer as they ride their bikes on their evening and early morning journeys.

Manager of Walking, Cycling and Road Safety for Auckland Transport, Kathryn King, says, “We have so much going on up here in Auckland building new spaces around the city for people on bikes, and it feels like the perfect time to bring the event here.”

Aucklander Carol Green entered last year and is already busily working on this year’s entry. “I’m all about riding a bike in normal clothes so last year I made some cool trousers with a thin, reflective stripe down the leg and tape on the bottoms to tighten and keep the cuffs off the oily chain, along with some pretty funky hi-vis reflective bunting for a bit of fun. I’m keeping this year’s vision under wraps for now and looking forward to being able to bike to the runway show this year.”

A $10,000 prize pool is up for grabs across 13 categories and prizes include a $500 Levi’s voucher, internship at Mandatory Menswear, a Wacom tablet, a Singer sewing machine, shearing scissors, cash prizes and more. The pièce de résistance is the Arrow Award where the winning entry will be manufactured by the winning designer during a two-month paid internship. F PN www.projectglowwear.com

In Auckland he was more successful. His seminary produced some outstanding priests and the Sisters of Mercy formed a sort of colony on Mount St Mary in Ponsonby. But there were still financial problems. The Maori missions never paid back the money he had borrowed for them, government aid to his schools came to an end and the laity resented bearing the burden.

He borrowed what little he could and mortgaged 45 acres of land owned by the diocese but the debt continued to climb and creditors wanted repayment. When he left for Europe in 1868 he realised the situation was very bad indeed and he knew he was too old and sick to deal with it. He resigned in 1869 and was made honorary archbishop of Amasia.

Accusations and suspicions of misconduct without substance or proof clouded his last days in New Zealand but his only guilt was poor administration. Pompallier was a devout man with talent and vision who spent his life in the service of others. He died at Puteaux in 1871, the man who founded the Catholic Church in New Zealand.

PN (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) F

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L to R: Arrow Award winning design by Kat Filer; Lux Luminance Award Award winning design by Fiona Pohlen PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Congrats also to our Property Management Department on a very strong year with 12% growth. Our team offers 25+ years experience managing and renting properties across the Western Bays. Unsurpassed locally, with experience that counts!

Call Huw Evans on 027 431 9671 or 09 376 4819

MILLY NOLAN: DESIGNER GIFTS

Scandinavian style Synonymous with aesthetically pleasing yet practical interiors, Scandinavian style is famous for a pared-back yet sophisticated look and feel. Neutral-hued ceramics and linen are combined with furniture in blonde wood or white, while indoor plants are widely celebrated.

Here are our favourite Scandi-inspired pieces for the home.

1. Paper Collective Green Home Print - $179 Bring the outdoors inside with this stunning graphic print

by Paper Collective. Frame in blonde wood to complete the look.

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2. Zakkia Large Podium Pot - $89 Just like the Scandinavians, display your much-loved greens in a stylish vessel like this raw ceramic podium pot.

3. Citta Design Oku Rubbish Bin - $90 Who says you can’t have a stylish rubbish bin? The warm tones of the bin’s natural wood lend themselves perfectly to Scandi style décor.

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4. Scandinavia Dreaming - $120 Hone your Scandi-inspired décor with this ultimate coffee table book which features the most enviable Scandinavian homes.

5. Penney + Bennet White Thatch Cushion Cover - $169 Perfect for your bed or the couch, this 100% linen cushion cover features a delicate hand-drawn print that is unlikely to date.

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6. Citta Design Ombra Hand Woven Wool Rug - $60 Chunky in aesthetics yet soft in texture, this small wool and cotton mix rug is perfect for a bedroom, living room or study.

7. Citta Design Segment Mirror - $139 This natural oak mirror has a timeless round shape yet its overall design gives it a contemporary twist.

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8. House Doctor Tapas Bowl - $48 Practical as well as good looking, this tapas dish is as Scandinavian as they come. Use it to serve side dishes at the table or for dips and antipasti.

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9. Leitmotiv Hexagon Side Table - $199 This stylish side table will suit any interior thanks to its colour palette and simple yet contemporary design.

PN (MILLY NOLAN) F 8

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All products available at www.mildredandco.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT RENTING? The CAB, the independent service which helps the public understand their rights and obligations, is here to help.

We asked CAB for some tips for anyone who rents (or lets) property, and this is what it told us.

Tenancy agreements A tenancy must be covered by a written tenancy agreement. Read your tenancy agreement before you sign it and seek advice if you aren’t sure (you can check it against MBIE Tenancy Services’ template agreement or contact your local CAB or tenants’ association). Even if you don’t have a written tenancy agreement covering your rental situation you may still be protected under the Residential Tenancy Act. Landlords aren’t allowed to require you to get the place professionally cleaned at the end of the tenancy. Even if you sign the agreement anyway, that clause is unenforceable. Amateur cleaning is perfectly acceptable.

Make sure you and the landlord do a property inspection together at the start of the tenancy - and take photos of the place while you do.

Ask the landlord whether 'P' has been used or manufactured on the property. The landlord should be checking for this between tenancies.

Are you a tenant or a flatmate?

When you are renting, what your rights and obligations are differs depending on whether your name is on the tenancy agreement.

If your name is on the tenancy agreement then as a tenant your have obligations to your landlord (and vice versa) under tenancy law.

If you aren’t named on the tenancy agreement then you are a flatmate - not a tenant - and your rights and obligations are to the tenant/s.

Those rights and obligations should be recorded in a house-sharing agreement. You don’t have rights under the Residential Tenancies Act if you’re just a flatmate.

Bond money A landlord can ask for a bond that is the equivalent of up to four weeks’ rent. They must pay your bond to Tenancy Services within 23 working days of receiving it.

Alternatively, the tenant can lodge the bond with Tenancy Services online.

At the end of the tenancy, the tenant/s and landlord must sign a bond refund form and sent it to Tenancy Services, before the bond money can be returned (minus any deductions for damage to the rental property). The people who are named on the tenancy agreement are the only ones who can get their bond back from Tenancy Services.

Who pays for the water?

If the property you rent has a separate water meter, the water is supplied on a metered basis and the charges can be exclusively attributed to your living on the property, then you (the tenant) have to pay the water supply bills. Usually you pay the landlord and the landlord pays the water supply company.

Look after your digs Treat the property with respect. This does include cleaning, vacuuming, and trying not to put holes in the walls.

Also, be nice to your neighbours. If there’s too much late-night noise and generally offensive behaviour coming from your place, their complaints to your landlord could pressure your landlord into asking you to leave.

If it’s broke, tell the landlord Tell your landlord as soon as possible about any necessary repairs or maintenance. Who pays for the repair depends on who caused the damage.

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You have to allow a reasonable amount of time for the repairs to be carried out, but if you think it’s taking far too long you can give your landlord a 14-day notice to remedy.

When the landlord comes a-calling Your landlord must give 48 hours’ advance notice if they want to inspect the property. If they want to enter to carry out repairs they have to give you at least 24 hours’ notice.

Time to bust a move Make sure you know whether your tenancy is a periodic or fixed tenancy. If you have a periodic tenancy then you can end the tenancy simply by giving your landlord at least 21 days’ written notice.

Your landlord has to give you 90 days’ written notice if they want you to leave (or 42 days’ notice in certain circumstances, such as a member of the landlord’s family moving in).

If you have a fixed-term tenancy it is a lot harder to leave before the end of the specified term.

Be aware that if your landlord gives you notice to leave and you then decide to leave earlier than that, you will need to give your landlord notice.

If you leave stuff behind when you go, your landlord has to contact you and give you time to retrieve it. If you don’t, the landlord can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal for an order allowing them to dispose of those items (including selling them). If they have kept your stuff in storage then they can claim the storage costs from you.

Disputes, disagreements and disagreeableness The Tenancy Tribunal can settle disputes between landlords and tenants However, they can’t help with disputes between flatmates or between a flatmate and a tenant. For these you have to turn to the Disputes Tribunal.

No matter how grumpy you get with your landlord, please don’t stop paying the rent. If you stop paying your rent you’ll be in breach of your tenancy agreement, which could lead to eviction Do keep copies of all communications with your landlord, even if the tenancy is going swimmingly - just in case.

Know where you can get help If you aren’t sure about what your rights or obligations are in your particular situation, there are people who can help you for free: • Your friendly local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB Grey Lynn/Ponsonby Branch is located at the Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn).

• You can also read tenancy information on our website, presented in an accessible Q & A format.

• Tenancy Services - their website is chock-full of useful information, including all the application forms, notices and agreement templates you could ever need as a renter.

• Your local tenants’ association. Not every town or city has one, but there’s a Tenants’ Protection Association in Christchurch and another in Auckland. F PN www.cab.org.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MY FAVOURITE ROOM Anna Verboeket Anna Verboeket has lived in Westmere for almost 20 years. She and her husband have recently renovated their worker’s cottage overlooking the zoo.

Prior to the renovation it measured just 96sq m and the couple shared that space with their two children - now both teens - cat, and dog “until sharing a bathroom became too hard.”

Anna has also owned a house in Chester Avenue and rented in Warwick Avenue; Nigel had a house in Norfolk Street in the 90s.

Anna’s favourite room is the living room. The family uses it for entertaining and 'just living' - it’s open plan into the kitchen and dining and opens onto a large deck overlooking Anna’s extensive, lovingly tended garden filled with rare cycads, bromeliads, hibiscus, frangipani, and bird of paradise. You can sometime see giraffes from the lookout at the end of the garden.

Beyond the garden, the view from the deck looks down onto the zoo. Lions, monkeys, screeching Kiwis and seals barking are all part of the property’s soundscape. The family has seen elephants with their keepers being fed on the bamboo grown for them at the foot of their property, and cheetahs on leashes coming up to the old Old Mill Road entrance to the zoo.

There’s lots of bird life too - tuis, gray warblers, fantails, rainbow lorikeets and, in the twilight, hunting swallows. Beyond the zoo and Point Chevalier, the property looks out to the Waitakeres, with drop-dead sunsets all year round.

The living room is Anna’s favourite because “It's sunny and warm and it looks out onto the distant view. And it's green, 10 minutes from the city."

Her favourite things in the room? "Nigel’s speakers (not), the tiki bar sign gifted to us by a friend, photos of the kids." F PN

@ DAWSON & CO 1. Vanessa Chair by &Co Studio - $3839 With it's classic contemporary style, this beautiful lounge piece adds warmth and comfort to any interior. Designed

by Thomas Bina.

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2. Lazy Chair by Timothy Oulton from $4419 Staying in your comfort zone never felt so good. Wrap yourself in the super-sized, super comfortable Lazy chair, mixing elements of an English Chesterfield with modern, relaxed living.

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3. Scholar Chair by Timothy Oulton - $2549 Inspired by the traditional armchairs found in English universities.

The Scholar chair has generously curved lines, modern wingtips and distinctive hand-applied brass studding.

A favourite chair for strategic thinking or to sit and debate the day.

DAWSON & CO., 115 The Strand, Parnell and 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, T: 09 476 1121, www.dawsonandco.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

@ HOME INDUSTRY All products are handmade in New Zealand by local artisans.

1. Hudson lounge chair Generously sized lounge chair has great style and comfort with inners of a mixture of feather and foam. Brass finish legs, proudly made in New Zealand and available in a range of fabrics.

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2. Park Lane console This elegant console is a must in all great hallways. Brass finish with double marble top and shelf. Also available in nickel and matte black finish. Locally made.

3. Madison coffee table Stunning large over coffee table in brass finish with double glass top and shelf. Also available in nickel and matte black finish. Locally made.

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4. Tri side table Luxe side table at its best, great for a side or bedside table.

Brass finish with marble top and glass shelf. Also available in nickel and matte black finish. Locally made.

5. Chelsea console Classic glamour console, brass and marble combo packs a real style punch. Also available in nickel and matte black finish. Locally made.

HOME INDUSTRY, 37 Mackelvie Street, T: 09 378 6972, www.homeindustry.co.nz

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MY FAVOURITE ROOM Rhys Mathewson Comedian Rhys Mathewson lives in Ponsonby with his girlfriend, a couple who work in the theatre industry, and a filmmaker.

“I'm not telling you exactly where,” he says, “I won't make that mistake twice.”

Rhys tells Ponsonby News: “I only moved into Ponsonby at the start of the year. It's so much easier than being over the bridge.

"My favourite room is The Classic comedy and bar. Okay, so it's not in Ponsonby, but since I've moved here it's the first time I've been in walking distance of my favourite place in the whole wide world.

"I use the room for doing stand up - which for me, is bringing joy to other people, making us all feel a bit more connected and in turn making me feel less existentially alone.

"It’s my favourite room because all of my best memories happened here. Gigs that went well, watching fellow comedians do things that would never happen again, and some late night karaoke when the punters had all left. I learned who I was in this place.

RHYS MATHEWSON @ CREEPING CHARLIE ARTIST MANAGEMENT www.creepingcharlie.co.nz www.comedy.co.nz

"My favourite thing in the room is the balcony - where the comedians watch from. It's nice to know that no matter how a gig is going, there are still people there on your side.” F PN

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WELCOME TO 'ONE RIVERSIDE' A one of a kind development in Whangarei's most distinguished new address and introducing a new level of luxury to waterfront living on the Basin's East Side.

This unique combination of location, luxury and lifestyle is irresistible and with just eight residences offers the very best of everything in a location that is second to none.

There are just four units per floor, perfectly in keeping with the intimacy of the area.

We have been chosen to market a range of two and three bedroom units over both floors of this exclusive development. All units have two bathrooms and two secure car parks with a storage unit. Please contact us today to secure your exclusive waterfront PN dream. F

To be built by Premier Local Developer 'Steve Bowling Contractors' and designed by Acclaimed Local Architects 'Mandeno Design' it is a contemporary beacon for the neighbourhood that will be beautifully integrated into the fabric of the Town Basin.

For viewing, T: 09 366 0015, www.barfoot.co.nz/589958 Cheryl Burgess, M: 0275 485 818, c.burgess@barfoot.co.nz or Dave Burgess, M: 0275 485 866, d.burgess@barfoot.co.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

FALLING AUCKLAND HOUSE SALES NUMBERS HAVE LIMITED IMPACT ON PRICES Auckland property sales numbers fell to their lowest level in April since the 2008 global financial crisis last month, but lower turnover had a limited impact on sales values.

"Sales numbers in April were down by about a third compared with the average for the previous three months, yet given this significant fall the average and median prices held steady,” said Peter Thompson, Managing Director of Barfoot & Thompson.

"The median sales price at $850,000 for the month was down only $5500 on the average median price for the previous three months.

"The same trend was there around the average price, which at $917,079 was down only $25,000 on the average for the previous three months.

"While prices have declined from March's all-time record highs, the fall relative to the average for the first quarter of this year is modest, and on a year-on-year basis the median price is up 3.7% and the average price is up 5%.

"It is a changed market from what we have been experiencing for a number of years and you have to go back nine years to find an April in which fewer homes were sold.

"Buyers are being far more selective, are taking their time over committing and are only prepared to pay the market price.

"Vendors are not lowering their price expectations significantly but are accepting that to achieve an above market sales price in the current climate their house has to be special.

"New listings in April were excellent at 1292, and combined with lower sales this allowed stock numbers and buyer choice to remain high.

"At month end we had 4214 listings on our books, close to what it has been at month end each month this year, but 48.1% higher than it was at the same time last year.

"The decline in sales numbers was felt evenly across all price ranges, with more than a third of all sales being for more than $1 million.

PN "Sales of property under $500,000 accounted for 6% of all sales.” F

@ DESIGN WAREHOUSE 1. Manhattan A-Grade Teak Club Chair The Manhattan Club Chair in A-grade teak has a versatile style and design that is modern or traditional depending on how you style it. It has a deep low seat that is ultra comfy. We accented it with our Teak Root Side Table in black. The Sunbrella® cushions are included in the price as shown.

In stock now and ready for pick up for delivery.

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2. Mykonos 3-Seater Sofa The Mykonos sofa is absolutely divine and chic.

The black powder-coated aluminum frame is dramatic yet sleek. Add modern sophistication to your outdoor living space with this sofa.

Sunbrella® cushions are included in the price as shown. Always fully assembled and ready to take home today.

3. Nero and A-Grade Teak Dining Set We love mixing materials to create a unique look and this set is the perfect combination of traditional and modern craftsmanship. The Nero rope dining chairs have and intricate design with pairs perfectly with the strong yet understated dining table. Design Warehouse offers a number of different styles of outdoor dining tables, including this functional Capri Double Extension Table. Extend it for large gatherings or keep it closed and seat eight. Everything arrives fully assembled and is ready for pick up or delivery.

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DESIGN WAREHOUSE, 137/147 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 377 7710, www.designwarehouse.co.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS APARTMENTO RETURNS TO PONSONBY After a brief spell in Newmarket, Apartmento is once again back in Ponsonby. A beautiful new space showcases a wide range of furniture and a select offering of homewares and accessories complements the look.

Owner Melissa Bowman says, 'We want to give our customers the kind of feeling they would experience walking into someone's thoughtfully put together home - layered, warm and inviting. We're thrilled with our new space and have designed several new ranges to celebrate our move back to Ponsonby'.

The beauty of the Apartmento collection is that all products can be customised to suit the individual and having their own factory and in-house design team allows for much greater flexibility.

Apartmento creates beautifully designed, precision manufactured contemporary furniture for a discerning clientele whose expectations of quality surpass the everyday.

Core to Apartmento's philosophy is the belief that beauty and quality can, and should, be reflected in our surroundings. The furniture we live with reflects our personality and can provide comfort and respite from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives.

Apartmento furniture will last a lifetime and beyond. Its build quality is as renowned as its functional beauty and it will sit just as well in a truly contemporary space as a more traditional home. Designed and manufactured in New Zealand Apartmento furniture is an international class product right here at your doorstep.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10.30am - 5pm, Saturday and Sunday, 11am - 4pm.

L to R: Apartmento showroom manager Sally Harvey and Apartmento Director Melissa Bowman

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APARTMENTO, 8 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 9963, www.apartmento.co.nz

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REAL ESTATE UPDATE: KAREN SPIRES

Reading between the lines - what’s really in a headline?

Deciphering the news today can be challenging. How do you work out what’s real and what is fake when you are hit daily by a barrage of alarmist headlines?

Last month we saw an excellent example of this at work when, after global media operation Bloomberg released their take on research from international investment bank Goldman Sachs, headlines were abuzz with scaremongering interpretation.

In evaluating the success, failures and future prospects of housing markets from the G-10 countries (those with the 10 most traded currencies in the world including New Zealand, Britain, Sweden, Japan and Canada), Goldman found New Zealand to have a 40% chance of ‘going bust’ within three years.

Or a 60% chance of continued buoyancy depending on the fill of your glass.

In the research, which was independently commissioned, executed and distributed, Goldman compared house price levels across economies using three standard metrics: the ratio of house prices to rent, the ratio of house prices to household income, and the price of homes adjusted for inflation.

The research found that housing markets of the comparatively smaller fish (New Zealand, Sweden and Canada versus the United Kingdom for instance) with ‘open-economies’ showed the biggest growth in recent years with house prices increasing tremendously, and New Zealand topping the charts as most ‘overvalued’ and at risk of a ‘bust’.

While we just pipped Sweden which held a risk value slightly north of 35%, trailed

by Australia at 25%, it’s probably worthwhile that we now consider - just what does Goldman see as a ‘bust’?

building new, which are together contributing to relative flattening of the market (relative to the astronomical growth we have experienced over the last 24 months).

As recently as last month the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) issued a statement that ‘all going to plan’, the tightened lending criteria would help to relax housing inflation to around 5% over the next few years. Hang on - isn’t that the ‘bust’ we just heard about in the headlines?

Increasing in population by more than 120,000 people in the past three years alone, Auckland house prices are said to have swollen by 91% since 2007, and the general consensus from local economists is that a 5% correction would in fact be a welcome relief as we look to tackle the more pressing issue of why housing is ‘unaffordable’ in the first place - which is supply.

The recent announcement from the Government’s Social Housing Minister Amy Adams that National intends to build 34,000 new homes on Crown land over the next 10 years (across areas like Tamaki, Hobsonville and Northcote) comes as the bubbling issue of supply comes to a head in preparation for our September election. And if the response from Labour and the public is anything to go by, housing is set to be a pivotal election issue which will divide the nation.

PN Thanks for reading. (KAREN SPIRES) F

Well, keep reading past the frightening headline (think ‘Global investing firm gives New Zealand two years to tank’), and you might just discover that their ‘bust’ is no more than a 5% regression in sale values. I’ve certainly read economic reports which have painted a picture much darker than 5%, yet received a quarter of the air time.

Sweden, like New Zealand has experienced rapid growth across their housing sector in recent years, and (also like New Zealand) has sought to implement changes amidst concerns from their central bank (the SverigesRiksbank). From June 2016, new amoritisation requirements were enacted, requiring mortgage loans more than 50% of a property’s value to be paid back at 1% each year. Having the desired effect, house price growth in Sweden has slowed as demand for property has dwindled.

In the case of Aotearoa, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has sought to apply loan-tovalue restrictions, the bright line test to hamper ‘flipping’ and incentives to encourage

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@ CONSIGNMENT 1. Casamilano Lauren 'Tokio' dining table in ebony wood with its signature geometric base designed by Roberto Lazzeroni

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2. From iconic Dutch design company Linteloo, the 'Isola' coffee table comes in solid smoked-oak stained in anthracite 3. Costes Candles and Home Fragrances - four signature scents reference iconic Parisian landmarks available now for the first time in New Zealand CONSIGNMENT, 2A Railway Street, Newmarket, T: 09 524 0084, www.consignmentfurniture.co.nz

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Alice Shopland, Angel Food “I established Angel Food because I wanted to play a part in making vegan mainstream and to create products that would enable people to still enjoy their favourite food rituals.

I was new to the food industry so I learned on the job, making lots of mistakes along the way. Obviously I made a lot of good decisions too, because 10 years on, I find myself with staff, distributors, manufacturers and inventory of the great products we’ve developed and which we supply to hundreds of retailers, supermarkets and food service outlets.”

Who is your partner? What do they do?

My husband, Colin Woods, is doing a Master’s in Creative Technology at AUT. Do you have any children/grandchildren?

I have two lovely adult sons, Nico and Mack, and a delicious grandson Orion (3). Thanks to Colin I also have gained three wonderful adult step-kids - Vivika, Naomi, and Jacob and step-grandkids Felix (3) and baby Astrid.

Your best friend would say of you...

I’m pathologically optimistic.

Your mother would say of you...

I dress like the op shop equivalent of Peta Mathias.

What are your virtues?

Thoughtful, compassionate, animal lover.

Vices?

Solitaire on the iPad, coffee, red wine, chips.

Who's your ultimate rock icon?

Still David Byrne from Talking Heads, after all these years.

What’s your secret passion?

Soaking in hot pools.

Where do you live?

In a pretty groovy apartment on Symonds Street, in an old industrial building.

What's your perfect Sunday?

Lounging around in my fluffy, red dressing gown until midday, strolling into town for lunch and a visit to the art gallery.

What were you going to be when you grew up?

A vet. But my mum organised for me to spend a half day at our local vet clinic and I fainted when they started prepping an Alsatian for de-sexing. Fortunately one of the vet nurses caught me before my head hit the concrete floor.

Which is your favourite Ponsonby cafe?

Little Bird Organics.

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Favourite Ponsonby store?

The Hospice Shop in Three Lamps.

Your best kept Ponsonby secret?

Ponsonby Pool Hall.

What's inspired you recently?

All the amazing feedback we’ve had from customers about our new vegan cheddar. It’s a reminder of why we love what we do.

The house is on fire and your family is safe - what do you save?

My pounamu from Colin, and my mum’s red glass necklace (which my French great-aunt bought at Galleries Lafayette when she worked there in the 1930s).

One thing you have learned about life is...

There’s no shame in making mistakes. What matters is how you handle those mistakes.

Your advice to Ponsonby vegans?

I hope, like me, you feel heartened by the growing vegan movement globally and the fact that so many people are tuning in, dropping out and going dairy free.

Your advice to young Ponsonby people aspiring to work in the vegan food industry?

Go for it - it’s an exciting growth industry! And it feels good to be doing good for a living.

Keep up to date with international trends. Be creative, determined and positive. F PN www.angelfood.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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MORE THAN A BOOKSHOP Hayden Glass and Julie Fry bought The Open Book last August because they believe secondhand bookstores need to exist in the community.

But their aim is to be much more than a haven for booklovers, they dream of creating a vibrant Ponsonby hub, host to a range of free community events, such as microconcerts, seminars and backyard concerts. They encourage everyone in the area - whether local or passerby - to use the store whenever they like, for meetings, events, study, work or play.

The store certainly has space for it; boasting a large, sunny backyard and seven rooms - a rarity these days for the central city. There are also comforts such as free coffee, Wi-Fi and plenty of seating available for anyone.

So if you find yourself on Ponsonby Road, stop by for a browse, or spend the day. They will be delighted to have you. F PN THE OPEN BOOK, 201 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 1741, www.ponsonbybooks.co.nz

@ COAST 1. COAST Classic Canvas Range - from $399 - $499 Designed and made in New Zealand from Sunbrella marine-grade fabric.

Manufacturer's lifetime warranty.

Available in three stock colours.

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2. COAST Bendigo Woollen Blanket - $330 Made from 100% New Zealand wool, available in three stock colours.

3. Ashley & Co Bubbles and Polkadots range We carry the full range of these New Zealand-made products, available in store.

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4. COAST Leather Luggage Tags - $49 Handmade in New Zealand from Italian leather.

5. Surmanti Eco Soya Long Burning Candle Pear and Passionflower - $45 Natural and organic New Zealand-made soy candle. More scents available in store.

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COAST, 77 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 354 4552, info@coast.co.nz, www.coast.co.nz

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Nick Cave - Lovely Creatures My relationship with Nick Cave's music has been brief and sporadic.

A school performance of ‘The Sorrowful Wife’ from No More Shall We Part, grabbed my attention but it was fleeting and barring the odd listen in the intervening years, I didn’t pick up Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds again until last year’s Skeleton Tree.

The soundtrack to my tour of the South Island, Skeleton Tree brought me back into the world of Cave’s words, stories and the darkness and melodramatic atmosphere of the music.

Lovely Creatures: The Best of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds was compiled by Nick Cave, founding member Mick Harvey and with some help from the current Bad Seeds. It provides a small glimpse into each album from the band, and the super deluxe edition features a beautiful hardcover book, a series of original essays and a two hour DVD with rare archive footage. Each edition showcases beautiful, previously unseen photos of the band.

Nick Cave’s statement about the album summed me up perfectly as a fan of Nick Cave but a flippant fan.

“There are some people out there who just don’t know where to start with The Bad Seeds. Others know the catalogue better than I do. This release is designed to be a way into three decades of music making. That’s a lot of songs. The songs we have chosen are the ones that have stuck around, for whatever reason. Some songs are those that demand to be played live. Others are lesser songs that are personal favourites of ours.

Others are just too big and have too much history to leave out. And there are those that didn’t make it, poor things. They are the ones you must discover by yourselves.”

Depending on what edition you find yourself with, you will be treated to a slightly different track order, but ultimately you are treated to some classics traversing the whole length of the Bad Seeds era. From the opening, ‘From Her To Eternity’ with the remnants of post-punk from pre-Bad Seeds Nick Cave, all the way through to the blues and Berlin influenced sounds of the mid 80s and into the early 90s. Genre-bending and mixing, Cave & The Bad Seeds challenged our ears as we took in Cave’s storytelling, both as poetry and as prose. Lovely Creatures takes us perfectly through this journey, and if

you’re a fan of a particular era, you’ll find it. Equally if you’re not sure where to start, this compilation offers you the perfect smorgasbord of every album. All it lacks is the latest, Skeleton Tree, but hopefully you’ll take Lovely Creatures in and then go find the other albums that agree with you.

Lovely Creatures was originally scheduled for late 2015, as a kind of celebration of 30 years of the Bad Seeds. Nick Cave comments, “Much had happened during that time - the band morphing into as many versions of itself as there were albums to reflect this.

It felt, to me, a good time to pay tribute to this unique creation.”

A couple of albums in 2013 and 2015 delayed the process, including Skeleton Tree, hence its omission from the compilation. Despite this, Nick Cave felt now was the time to celebrate the band and their achievements, with this, Lovely Creatures. Only a couple of years later than planned.

I’d say it’s worth the wait, and will hopefully spawn a new generation and army of Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds followers. I’ve already been back through the catalogue and found all those songs that missed out. Go and pick this up, and take in the stories that it PN holds. (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F

Finn McLennan-Elliott has a Bachelor of Science Honours degree specialising in human geography at Auckland University. In his spare time, Finn plays clarinet and guitar in an orchestra and a folk music group. He is hosting ‘Folk at the Old Folks’ on the first Sunday of every month at the Auckland Old Folks Association Hall, an intimate afternoon concert of folk music.

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Michael Hill Violin Competition - Anne Rodda - Executive Director

“I’ve been with the competition since the very beginning.

We started in 2001. The initiation of the idea came from Michael [Hill]. He wanted to have a violin competition.

I remember the day he came in, I was working for the Auckland Philharmonia. He came to meet with us, when it was just an idea, and it was a surprise to us all that he wanted it to be an international competition. By the time he left we had a plan in place, and we rolled it out that first year quite quickly!”

“Of the 130 past laureates we had, we were able to track down all bar two. They are all involved in music. A couple have gone into music therapy. I find it really gratifying, it is an age group that I am really compelled to focus on, that post tertiary, pre-profession. So much excitement, so much potential and raw talent. And I know myself I had some really great experiences when I was that age, so to be able to provide opportunities for that precious time in people’s lives, I find incredibly rewarding.”

Anne has a little bit of an accent herself and has some history as a global musician, living in many different countries, but now calls Grey Lynn home. “We moved to New Zealand from the United States 20 years ago. For the last 14 years we’ve been in Grey Lynn.

This year's competition includes Wellington-born Benjamin Baker, who has performed with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and the Royal New Zealand Ballet.

“I was a cellist,” Anne says. She hasn’t performed at the level she’d like to for many years, but says maybe she’ll find the time to get back up to her high standard. Despite this lack of professional performance in her own life she comments, “I’ve been really lucky to have that creative outlet, even without performing.” Through her work as Executive Director of this competition, her time with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and many other organisations, she calls herself a “serial arts leader”.

The Michael Hill Violin Competition in 2017 had 140 applicants from 32 countries. An astounding feat for a competition run out of New Zealand, and half of if run out of Queenstown. It has grown since the first competition in 2001, but Anne does believe there have been some important bumps along the way that boosted the competitions reputation and reach. “The rise of digital advertising, we just had some help getting our message out there. Probably the most significant bump came with the announcement of the jobs of some of our winners. For instance, our 2013 winner [Nikki Chooi] is the Concertmaster of the New York’s Metropolitan Opera. When he won that announcement we had a lot of applications.

The competition also features a Development Prize for a standout young New Zealand artist. The winner of this prize gets to accompany the quarter finalists throughout their week and participate in all the professional development opportunities on offer. The 2017 Development Prize winner is Alexandra Lomeiko, who is the younger sister of the 2003 competition winner.

A true testament to the impact and importance of this competition on families' and individuals' lives.

The winner of the Michael Hill Competiton receives NZ$40,000, a recording contract with the Atoll label, an intensive performance tour across New Zealand and Australia, and a personalised professional development programme. The winner is also invited to perform on Sir Michael Hill’s magnificent personal violin, a 1755 Guadagnini named 'The Southern Star', on their Winner’s Tour.

photography: Sheena Haywood

In a little office on Surrey Crescent one of the top violin competitions in the world is organised. The Michael Hill Violin Competition has been running since 2001 and has been a launchpad for many amazing careers playing the instrument. I sat down with Executive Director Anne Rodda to talk about what makes it special.

Anne Rodda The Michael Hill Violin competition comes to Auckland with the six semi-finalists for 7 and 8 June before the final three perform the Auckland Town Hall on Saturday 10 June. Check out all the information at their website and get along and watch the best young violinists in the world. (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F PN www.violincompetition.co.nz

“It has become a launchpad for important careers. The accomplishments and accolades of our past winners really speak to the reputation of the competition. We are one of the top violin competitions of the world, not that any of us expected that 18 years ago, run out of New Zealand.

Anna was very excited to discuss the new system they’ve created, that allows people to track and find all of their past finalists and winners.

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photography: Simon Darby

“Of the 140 applicants, every single one of them was incredible. They all could have participated, because it takes a lot to put together an application.” Only 16 are chosen from those 140 to become quarter finalists. They compete over multiple rounds in Queenstown and Auckland in June. Held every two years it draws in some of the most celebrated classical musicians to judge, and some of the most talented and phenomenal young musicians.

ARTS + CULTURE @ PONSONBY CENTRAL Two artists - One space Victoria Proebstel and Warwick Rule 19 - 25 June

A joint exhibition showcasing works with a different point of view; Victoria Proebstel and Warwick Rule are energetic creatives who have joined together for a unique exhibition in the heart of Ponsonby.

Victoria-P is exhibiting a body of work showcasing some of the courageous, beautiful souls she has photographed. She is an Auckland-based photographer who has been photographing since 1978. She works with people personally, and professionally creating images and words to express their individual point of view.

Photograph by Victoria-P

“I love being behind the camera capturing the essence of people. It's a very personal experience and a great privilege for me to tell their story. There’s nothing more exciting than that moment when people see their inner gorgeousness, their strength and vulnerability... it’s an amazing gift to give. My ultimate goal is to reach out to people and inspire them to take a look within and find the courage to shine, embrace their truth and honour their uniqueness.”

Warwick is a passionate artist, photographer and Photoshop specialist based in Auckland. He works in both digital and physical mediums to bring his artistic ideas to life.

“I work with people on personal and commercial projects and also pursue a number of my own projects, where I get to let my imagination loose. I get satisfaction from bringing ideas to life for myself and for others.” F PN PONSONBY CENTRAL, Corner Ponsonby and Richmond Roads, www.victoria-p.com, www.jademonkey.com

@ LAKE HOUSE ARTS Wood craft outdoor exhibition - until 18 June The Wood Craft Festival encouraged both emerging and established artists to step out of their comfort zones, to create a work ‘on the fly’, on site within Lake House grounds and within a strict time period. Despite the rain, artists have produced some wonderful works which will be on display in the Lake House grounds until 18 June.

The sculptures are for sale and any unsold works will be auctioned at the end of the exhibition. Many thanks to the event sponsors the Chartwell Trust, The Becroft Foundation and the Devonport Takapuna Local Board.

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The Collodian Collective - until 25 June Wet plate collodion is one of photography’s earliest processes, flourishing for few decades in the mid-19th Century. Requiring the creation and development of large -format glass or metal photographic plates ‘on-site’, its temperamental chemistry, fine grain and beautiful image quality is again being rediscovered by this small band of Kiwi photographers. For the first time, we are putting on a group show of work showing a range of tintypes, black glass ambrotypes and large-format prints.

Artists include: Paul Alsop, Michael Bradley, Raewyn Dunn, Jane Fletcher, Su Hendeles, Brian Scadden, Martin Sowter, Ann Marie Hope-Cross, Brian Scadden, Megan Dickson.

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1. Harlem Shine - Kaitiaki Totoko; 2. Brett Evans - Moa; 3. Martin Sowter - Antonia; 4. Paul Aslop - Sophie LAKE HOUSE ARTS, is easy access, straight off the motorway at Esmonde Road onto Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, www.lakehousearts.org.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE @ THE LITTLE GALLERY Free Print Weekend Queen’s Birthday Weekend, 3 - 5 June

This Queen’s Birthday Weekend, The Little Gallery is offering a free print with every purchase over $100.

In the winter ahead we will all be spending more time indoors - what better way to create a cosy, inviting interior than with some beautiful artwork? With the free print offer you can have even more artwork to brighten up your home.

The Little Gallery offers an extensive range of quality original artwork by New Zealand artists. The current exhibition ‘Joie de Vivre: The Joy of Life’ encapsulates the spirit and joy of life and artmaking, presenting a vibrant and diverse selection of paintings, prints and sculptures.

With over 50 artists on show, you are sure to find that special piece.

For those heading out of the city for the long weekend, this promotion is also on offer at our Tairua branch in the Coromandel.

With their lease coming to an end, this will be The Little Gallery’s last weekend at Victoria Park Market. They thank you for your support. Their Tairua branch will continue to operate and offers a similar selection of artwork and artists, just a two hour drive from Auckland City.

Auckland opening hours: Saturday 3 June - 10am to 4pm, Sunday 4 June - 10am to 2pm and Monday 5 June 10am to 2pm. F PN THE LITTLE GALLERY AUCKLAND, Shop 30-32, Ground Floor, Victoria Park Market, 210 Victoria Street West, T: 09 354 4745, M: 027 368 118, www.thelittlegallery.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE @ THE FRAME WORKSHOP - JANE CRISP Jane Crisp is Auckland born, mainly self-taught and has been painting professionally for over a decade.

Her take on New Zealand wildlife, birds in particular, are executed with such an understanding of feather and form it is truly remarkable. It is as though the bird has agreed to be painted and has an accepted awareness of the viewer. Take some time to have a closer look at Jane's works on her website www.janecrisp.co.nz “Much of my work is intuitive. An imaginary stage is conceived, personifying a piece de resistance of nature, and with much patience, a little suffering, and a whole lot of joy a new painting is born.

I liken my paintings to the creation of life, a strong bond is formed during the process, and that attachment remains as I release them into the world.” Jane says.

At the Frame Workshop they have quite a few of Jane’s works ready framed or they can organise with Jane to have any of the prints that are available to be dropped into the shop to be framed as you choose. You can also buy direct online from her website and bring them in to the Frame Workshop yourself. F PN

@ WHITESPACE Michael Hall Mountain of Plastic, China. Michael Hall exhibits at Whitespace as part of the Auckland Festival of Photography from 13 June - 1 July.

New Zealander Michael's photographic work focuses specifically on exploring the human impact on the environment.

Now based in Australia, he is currently undertaking an extensive project to document the causes and effects of our changing climate as a personal exploration and to improve ecological awareness around the world.

"Michael's victim is our planet as we know it now... and he gives it a voice. His pictures speak to me and reveal not only our greed, carelessness and wastefulness, but also our hopefulness in an ability to perhaps see that vulnerable things are the most fragile and treasured things to behold. In a way, it's a shame that his eye is so developed and his talent is such that everything he captures comes out in an evocative and hauntingly beautiful way. But that's the paradoxical nature of his art... that he loves the world so much and cares so much for its future, that he can't help but capture its beauty and majesty in a way that doesn't show how degraded we have become as shamelessly wasteful people.” Yoo-Jong Kim, Walter Randel Gallery, New York (Curator of Exhibitions).

F PN Michael will be giving a talk on his work at the Auckland Art Gallery Auditorium as part of the Talking Culture series on 18 June at 3pm.

WHITESPACE, 12 Crummer Road, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz

photography: Michael Hall

THE FRAME WORKSHOP & GALLERY, 1/182 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 4749, www.frameworkshop.co.nz

A solar farm under construction in the remote Gansu province

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ARTS + CULTURE AUCKLAND LIVE IN ASSOCIATION WITH Q THEATRE PRESENT VELVET - A Divine Discotheque Circus 21 September - 1 October

Channelling the wild excesses and disco ball glamour of the 70s, Velvet struts its way into Auckland for a deliciously seductive extravaganza to headline the 2017 Auckland Live International Cabaret Season.

An electrifying journey to a world of glamour, Velvet is an indulgent fusion of sexy cabaret and dazzling acrobatics. This is the party of the year that boasts an exhilarating disco soundtrack laced with disco divas and sizzling chanteuses. Slip behind the red velvet rope into an intoxicating glitter ball world of fantasy and sparkle.

Aria-nominated, award-winning Velvet is the most anticipated show on the global festival circuit, having sold out shows all over the world. Set in a glitzy nightclub reminiscent of New York’s Studio 54, Velvet weaves a subtle narrative around re-imagined classic hits from the era that produced hot pants, the Hustle, and Saturday Night Fever.

The international ensemble of circus, cabaret and music talent features dreamy muscle man Stephen Williams, hula boy extraordinaire Craig Reid, acrobatic wunderkind Mirko Köckenberger, sizzling aerialist Emma Goh and musical director and mix master Joe Accaria, alongside the legendary disco diva Marcia Hines.

Velvet also features rising Australian star Tom Oliver, who plays the young

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

ingénue who slips behind the red velvet rope at the glamorous nightclub that is Velvet; while Kaylah Attard and Rechelle Mansour set the stage on fire as the sizzling, sassy sirens.

Velvet arrives in New Zealand with legendary disco diva and Aria Hall of Fame inductee Marcia Hines at the helm, whose career spans four decades and shows no signs of slowing. Making her iconic debut at the tender age of 16 in the Australian production of the stage musical Hair, Hines is familiar to Kiwi audiences as a judge on the hugely popular Australian Idol. Hines’ commercial success is almost unrivalled - with several hit singles, including cover versions of ‘Fire and Rain’, ‘I Just Don't Know What to Do with Myself’, ‘You’ and ‘Something's Missing (In My Life)’, and her Top 10 albums Marcia Shines, Shining and Ladies and Gentlemen.

Velvet shocks, surprises and scintillates at every turn. It’s a party, it’s electrifying, and it’s exhilarating disco soundtrack never lets up from the opening moment. Each performance invites the audience into an intoxicating glitter ball world where artists and spectators walk a fine line between the romantic and the audacious. Velvet is a fantastic sensory overload - funky, fresh, fun and sexy. F PN Book now: aucklandlive.co.nz/show/VELVET - Tickets: $65 - $85 #VelvetTheShow #AucklandLive #AucklandLiveInternationalCabaretSeason

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ARTS + CULTURE

UPTOWN ART SCENE It’s heartening in these fractured times to see a more equitable conversation happening across the Tasman.

While Australian collectors and collections, such as Brisbane’s GOMA, have been engaged with New Zealand artists for many years, our camaraderie has been a little slower to warm. Is it because they’re so quick to claim our people as their own (and don’t mention Pavlova)? The backwards-and-forwards of the trans-Tasman art scene doesn’t care for such bragging rights; there’s great art to be made!

Matt Arbuckle was born here, yet divides his time between Auckland, Berlin and Melbourne, where he is now based. Matt’s third exhibition at Tim Melville continues his painterly abstraction of the landscape, using bold temperature changes and confident brush marks to suggest environments of rugged immediacy and movement. His large work Fight in the Back Streets floats in a cobalt blue dreamy state: early 20th Century expressionism meets the distressed surfaces of Melbourne’s laneways.

Melbourne’s Esther Stewart exhibits boldly segmented fabric works upstairs at Two Rooms. These are large, the size of bedspreads, and the pliable, soft nature of the cotton drill makes their colours glow, like tipped clothes caught in sunlight.

Matt Arbuckle's Fight in the Back Streets

Downstairs at Two Rooms, Australian maestro John Nixon has lined small collaged works across three of the long walls in a rhythm of shape, colour, and everyday packaging. His work is currently also on show at the Auckland Art Gallery, on loan from the Chartwell Collection.

Just down from the AAG, Hamilton’s most awarded son, Melbourne-based Richard Lewer shows a series of portraits at Gow Langsford. These are in slick, lumpy enamels, which manage to describe their subjects at once grotesque and tender.

With Sydney Contemporary Art Fair’s recent announcement of who will be exhibiting at Carriageworks in September, it is heartening, too, to see 11 New Zealand galleries included. There is enough difference and similarity in this trans-Tasman dialogue to get PN very excited by. Our region is humming! WILL PAYNT/STUDIO ART SUPPLIES F

Esther Stewart's Private Symbol

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ARTS + CULTURE @ ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY Described as both brilliant and commanding, young cellist Matthias Balzat performing Schumann’s cello concerto with St Matthew’s chamber orchestra.

Black on Black - Visesio Siasau 8 June - 1 July Opening: 8 June 5 - 7pm Visesio Siasau won The Wallace Arts Trust Paramount Award (2015) including a trip to New York and a six-month residency at the ISCP.

18 June - 2.30pm Brilliant young cellist Matthias Balzat is the youngest of seven children and started learning the cello at the age of three.

Being surrounded by musical siblings, he had a variety of performance experiences as a youngster, both as soloist and as part of the family ensemble touring United States, Germany, Austria, Australia and Fiji. He began his lessons with SallyAnne Brown, who taught him for nine years, before continuing his studies with James Tennant. At the age of nine he was selected to play at the Gala Concert for the International Suzuki Convention held in Melbourne and there did his first performance as soloist with an orchestra.

@ OREXART

To quote the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where he was invited to show and discuss his work, "Tongan artist-philosopher Visesio Siasau has built a career exploring the notion of the void and its conceptual expression in art."

Matthias Balzat, young cellist

In 2013 he entered the NZCT Chamber Music Contest with 'Sollertinsky', performing Shostakovich’s 2nd Piano Trio. They won the overall National Prize. In 2014 Matthias achieved First Prize at the National Concerto Competition and was consequently accepted into the Music Performance Soloist Specialization Course at Waikato University at the age of 14.

His recent works are geometric, minimalist black on black paintings that aim to trigger simultaneous connections between the mind, matter and heart. Their inky blackness alludes to ancient systems and interpretations of creativity. The ‘void’ is a place of mystery, where time and human connections are meaningless, where everything, including man and his fragment of invented time, is part of all else. Siasau’s use of an abstract image focuses the viewer’s attention on the painting’s surface. A pattern fills the canvas, emphasising its flatness but the result does not deny an illusion of depth.

Please contact rex@orexart.co.nz for details. F PN OREXART, 15 Putiki Street, Arch Hill, T: 09 378 0588, www.orexart.co.nz

In 2015 he won first prize at PACANZ Competition, was guest soloist with the NZSSSO, performed with the Turnovsky Ensemble, won the Chamber Music Competition at Waikato University, was a finalist in the Royal Overseas League Chamber Scholarship competition and won second prize at the Gisborne International Competition. He was awarded a Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship and a Blues Award in 2014 and 2015 and is currently in his third year of studies under James Tennant.

In 2016 he won the Inaugural Wallace International Cello Competition, held at the University of Waikato and his group won the Royal Overseas League chamber music competition. In March this year Matthias performed the Shostakovich concerto with the NZSO. An outstanding performer - this will be a concert to remember for all time.

St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra is a dedicated group of musicians whose high-quality music making brings their audiences much joy. (Gillian Ansell, NZ String Quartet). Their concerts play to full houses. Make sure you get there early. Tickets: Eventfinda or door PN sales cash. Adults: $25, Concessions: $20, Children under 12 free. F ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY CHURCH corner Wellesley and Hobson Streets, www.smco.org.nz

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HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS

♊

What your stars hold for June

Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June You seem to be so full of beans this month that you are finding it hard to contain your energy. Try and direct it in a positive way and you’ll soon learn how to control it.

♋

Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July There is no simple solution to the problems you seem to be facing. However, you must not be defeated. Try asking for help and see who comes up with the best answer.

♌

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August Try not to look too much into your past, as you can never feel now as you did then.

Thankfully you have moved on without any old baggage and are ready now to accept a new future.

♍ Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September

You seem to be looking for love but the reality is you seem to be hunting. You are scaring away any potential romances by your intense need for passion. Take a step back if you can and you will immediately become more attractive.

♎

Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October You're the centre of attention this month and everyone is clamouring for a piece of you.

Give freely if you want but only if you are clear about what you are doing.

♏ Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November

You’ve reached a crossroads for the first time in your life and you are confused about how to proceed. There is conflict around you but the best thing to do is to carry on doing the things the way you want and not someone elses.

♐

Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December You have to be on your toes this month, as you need answers to questions you’ve asked. Trying to pin down those you seek could be problematic but please persevere and you will eventually hear what you’ve been waiting for.

♑ Capricorn (the Goat): 23 December - 20 January

You have had a life plan for as long as you can remember but sometimes our plans are changed without our consent. Just remain open to change and you will soon find yourself on the familiar path again.

♒ Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February

You’re trying to get attention but you seem to be going about in the wrong way. Stop banging about and rattling cages; instead speak up. You do have a voice and you will be heard.

♓ Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March

You are always thinking of ways to make money and you’re full of good ideas. But the reality is you expect dreams to become real when you have no intention of following through or doing much about them.

♈ Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April

You’re always one to surprise and this month is no exception. Whether it’s something you say or something you do, it will have an impact.

♉ Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May

You’ve suddenly realised that the answer to the question you’ve been asking yourself for quite some time now has been in front of you for a while but you're either ignoring it or don’t like it. You don’t have to do anything except accept it.

PONSONBY NEWS OUTLETS FREEMANS BAY

NEWMARKET

Ecostore, 1 Scotland Street Glengarry, Corner Sale and Wellesley Streets Kellands Real Estate, 4 Drake Street New World, Victoria Park

Taylor Boutique, 1 Teed Street

GREY LYNN Barfoot & Thompson, 533 Great North Road Barkley Manor, 400 - 402 Great North Road Grey Lynn Community Centre, 520 Richmond Road Grey Lynn Community Library, 474 Great North Road Raw Essentials, 401B Richmond Road Ripe, 172 Richmond Road Tapac, 100 Motions Road Vetcare, 408 Great North Road

NORTH SHORE Rug Direct, Wairau Park Dawson’s Furniture, Mairangi Bay

PARNELL Jane Daniels, 2 Birdwood Crescent Parnell Community Centre, 545 Parnell Road

PONSONBY

Atomic, 420c New North Road

Askew, 2b Jervois Road Bayleys, 305 Ponsonby Road Countdown, 7 Williamson Avenue Harcourts, 89 Ponsonby Road Leys Institute, 20 St Mary’s Road The Longroom, 114 Ponsonby Road Mag Nation, 123 Ponsonby Road Paper Plus, 332 Ponsonby Road Ponsonby Community Centre, 20 Ponsonby Terrace Servilles, Corner Jervois & Ponsonby Road Studio One, 1 Ponsonby Road Whitespace, 12 Crummer Road

MT EDEN

WESTMERE

Citta Outlet Store, Corner Enfield & Normanby Road Sabato, 57 Normanby Road Studio Italia, 25 Nugent Street

Glengarry, 164 Garnet Road

HERNE BAY Herne Bay Post & Stationers, 240 Jervois Road Five Loaves, 206 Jervois Road Icing on the Cake, 188 Jervois Road Momentum, 182 Jervois Road

KINGSLAND

114 PONSONBY NEWS+ June 2017

Ponsonby News is published on the first Friday of each month excluding January.

Copies go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets.

The issue is also published on our website www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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Exceptionally tuned in to what’s happening in your area, Karen’s your No. 1 property professional.

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