FROM THE EDITOR

“Cycling has seen a resurgence in Auckland over the last few years; COVID lockdowns’ contributing to people grabbing bikes out of the back of the shed and garage and rediscovering the feeling of the wind in their hair and the sense of freedom associated with cycling. There are scores of people adding cycling back into their repertoire of regular leisure and exercise activities over the last two years,” says Dan Bye, owner of My Ride Grey Lynn, one of the area’s latest cycle stores and one that aims to be a key part of the local cycling community.

We received sad news last month to hear of the passing of local artist and forest protector, Annette Isbey. This local cultural icon was deeply distressed by the destruction of her much-loved Western Springs Forest. Annette had contacted the Waitematā Local Board a number of times about the poor condition of the Western Springs walking track and offroad bikes which were damaging the native forest.

Helene Ravlich has some suggestions for a winter, get up and go. Despite the stellar weather we’ve experienced over the autumn months, there’s no denying that winter will soon be at our doorsteps. If you’re dreaming of a much-needed escape, here’s a little inspiration for your next getaway, both close to home and a little farther away. There are four options for consideration: Brisbane, Hawkes Bay, Queenstown and Parohe Island Retreat.

Save our heritage. Makes no bones about it, whether it’s termed Special Character Overlay or Heritage zoning, our heritage is under attack. St Mary’s Bay is one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs. In recent times, the Grade 1 listed Leys Institute has been mothballed (with re instatement works put in the slow lane) and now the very essence of our community is threatened with annihilation by the NPS-UD (National Policy Statement – Urban Development). The St Mary’s Bay Association lodged a submission to Council on 9 May making the views of our community known and suggesting why we think they’ve got it wrong. Thank you to our community for their support. We urge you to join the St Marys Bay Association, if you haven’t already at www.stmarysbayassociation.nz. The Association will keep you regularly updated and welcomes your views, comments and feedback.

With this issue we send our thoughts and love to our colleague John Elliott, who is currently being treated at Auckland Hospital.

Pictured above: Vicki Taylor, Kevin Thorne and Martin Leach. We were at The Shelter in Mackelvie Street for the opening of Kevin Thorne's jewellery business, which is based at the back of the store. (MARTIN LEACH)  PN

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