PONSONBY NEWS - MARCH'18

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PUBLISHED FRIDAY 2 MARCH 2018

Established: OCTOBER 1989 – CELEBRATING 28 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

MARCH 2018

EUROPEAN INFLUENCES Be inspired - P40

THE BUTCHER'S SON Chris Kinnell, Louise & James Logan.

The trio have recently opened their new plant-based eatery in Jervois Road, Herne Bay - P58

ELECTRIC TRANSPORT It’s here now - P66 ponsonbynews.co.nz

LOVING, LIVING & SELLING GREATER PONSONBY

Herne Bay 76 Albany Road

Grey Lynn 2 Sherwood Avenue

Grey Lynn 103 Crummer Road

Grey Lynn 40 Grosvenor Street

Grey Lynn 503 Aria Apartment

Grey Lynn 3A Nexus Apartment

Herne Bay 288B Jervois Road

Grey Lynn 36 Grosvenor Street

Westmere 79 Old Mill Road

Ponsonby 64 John Street

Bayleys Real Estate Ltd, Ponsonby Licensed under the REA Act 2008

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LISTINGS

Grey Lynn 34 Millais Street

Grey Lynn 11 Old Mill Road

www.bayleys/167815

www.bayleys/1670807

Grey Lynn 17 Crummer Road

Grey Lynn 101 North Apartment

www.bayleys/1670812

www.bayleys/1670816

Grey Lynn 2B/31 Scanlan Street

Grey Lynn 1B Nexus Apartment

www.bayleys/1670835

www.bayleys/1670717

Blair Haddow Phone 021 544 555 The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Email blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

Bayleys Real Estate Ltd, Ponsonby Licensed under the REA Act 2008

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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photography: Don Chooi

photography: Martin Leach

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH

P66: Bike shop owner of The Electric Bike Hub, Maurice Wells with his sales manager Teo; P110: The Bears gather for last month's Auckland Pride Parade.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FROM THE EDITOR DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD MIKE LEE, COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS U3A PONSONBY NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

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EUROPEAN INFLUENCES HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY COVER STORY - VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL FASHION + STYLE ELECTRIC TRANSPORT LIVING, THINKING & BEING

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JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH FUTURE GENERATION PONSONBY PETS HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN ARTS + CULTURE OUT + ABOUT PONSONBY PINK PAGES

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: MARTIN LEACH

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

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MARTIN LEACH; M: 021 771 147; E: martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz JO BARRETT; M: 021 324 510; E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz JAY PLATT; M: 021 771 146; E: jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz MELISSA PAYNTER; M: 027 938 4111; E: melissa@ponsonbynews.co.nz GWYNNE DAVENPORT; M: 021 150 4095; E: gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz JULIE ROULSTON; M: 027 211 7169; E: julie@ponsonbynews.co.nz FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT; M: 021 134 4101; E: finn.huia@gmail.com JOHN ELLIOTT; M: 021 879 054; E: johnelliott@ihug.co.nz JESSIE KOLLEN and DEIRDRE THURSTON ARNA MARTIN; E: arna@cocodesign.co.nz MELISSA PAYNTER; E: melissa@ponsonbynews.co.nz

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Thinking Real Estate?

Think Chris Batchelor.

With an extraordinary reputation built on his commitment to getting the job done, Chris has long been a trusted name in Real Estate.

20A Webber Street Westmere

2/40 Wallace W ll Street, St t Herne Bay

54 New Street, St Marys Bay

SOLD

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76 Albany Road Herne Bay

SOLD

SOLD

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33 Peel Street, Westmere

32 Herne Bay Road, Herne Bay

28 Picton Street, Freemans Bay

SOLD

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57 Sentinel Road, Herne Bay

13 Wanganui Avenue, Herne Bay

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Chris Batchelor Phone. +64 21 217 7026 Email. chris.batchelor@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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LETTERS + EMAILS PLEASE REMOVE THE METERED PARKING IN REDMOND STREET BEHIND KIWIBANK I recently wrote to Phil Goff and Lester Levy in their respective 'controlling roles' over Auckland Transport seeking details of the research completed by Auckland Transport regarding parking in Ponsonby.

Auckland Transport had completed a 'research project' to supposedly establish a justification for the installation (or otherwise) of parking meters and a new parking regime throughout Ponsonby. Auckland Transport then went ahead with the installation of the parking meters throughout Ponsonby.

They included parking metres for parking up to 9pm and thoughtfully included new charges on weekends, and charges in the free car park behind the Ponsonby Post Office (that could have been addressed with a P60 sign - and no other costs). These are key areas for the local population to park for short stays and quick shopping visits.

I was alarmed when I analysed the results. The key results were as follows: 1. 248 replies to the online and documented research questionnaires.

2. Only 29% (just - 72 people!) agreed with the proposal “In general” (to quote their own Executive Summary) 3. “However, there was considerable opposition to the proposal” (again a direct quote from their Executive Summary).

4. 29% flatly rejected the whole idea.

5. 21% asked for reduced hours of charging.

6. 21% asked for free parking after 5 (or 6) pm, and free in the weekend.

7. 17% disliked the impacts on residents without off-street parking.

These residents already pay a significant amount in rates in this area, as we know, have enjoyed the previous parking regime for many years because it worked anyway. We should still be able to enjoy that regime for many years ahead.

It will be interesting to see if Phil and Lester 'hunker down' trying to justify Auckland Transport's idiot decision making and corrupt research practices, or if they read the will of the electorate and elect to take the Ponsonby parking regime out - as is demanded by the vast majority of the electorate!

This was another 'make work' project by staff at Auckland Transport - no changes were needed, asked for, or even approved by residents when at Auckland Transport research teams did actually ask!

But still Auckland Transport drove mindlessly on with their own agenda (revenue raising) and installed a regime that makes our community a worse place to try and live than it was, and could easily have stayed! P60, P90 and P120 parking signs would have sufficed!

There was no justification for this mindless and expensive activity and Auckland Transport must change it back to how it was previously. Nothing more, nothing less.

I noted in a recent Herald editorial that 250 cyclists rode on Richmond Road to show their support for the Auckland Transport-delivered fiasco that is the new reduced parking and idiot bus stops' regime in West Lynn.

Again, using the established population data 250 'cyclists' - assuming they all came from the Ponsonby Grey Lynn area - constitutes just 0.93% of the population - less that 1%!

It is about time the wishes of the other 99% are respected by Auckland Transport and these idiot road works are removed and parking for our local stores is restored!

Roger Hawkins, Herne Bay Reference: Dataset: Subnational population estimates (TA, AU), by age and sex, at 30 June 1996, 2001, 2006-17 (2017 boundaries)

So, cumulatively (allowing for the margin of error, etc), the clear majority of those questioned rejected the proposal for a variety of reasons - and just 29% (72 people) said they agreed with “some aspects” of the proposal.

DOG OWNERS NEED TO PICK UP AFTER THEIR DOGS I love dogs around Ponsonby - it is just some of the owners I find who are irresponsible, giving those considerate owners a bad name. Has anyone out there noticed the doggie do’s on our footpaths? Namely on Jervois and Ponsonby Roads? Who are these people not picking up their dogs' droppings? It never ceases to amaze me.

Carolyn Hogarty, Ponsonby

I then establish from Statistics NZ the very latest estimates for the population of our 'village'. The estimated population of this catchment area is 26,900. Ref: As at 2017 NZ Dept. of Statistics - Dataset: Subnational population estimates (TA, AU), by age and sex, at 30 June 1996, 2001, 2006-17 (2017 boundaries).

CYCLING LANES As a magazine that is supposedly a champion for the views of residents, please can we have a more balanced editorial approach to the introduction of the much-needed cycling lanes in our neighbourhood.

This means that just 72 people supported some parts of the proposals (which leaves 26,828 who did not). 72 people equals only 0.0027 % of the population!

The voice of local residents appears to be increasingly absent from your recent coverage of this important local issue. It’s very frustrating to hear the outdated rhetoric coming from our political representatives such as Mike Lee and from some of the local businesses.

8. 13% felt the proposed meters and charges would drive away customers (which it has noticeably achieved).

So... what does Auckland Transport do? They unilaterally, and without the intervention of our 'elected' representatives, did the exact opposite of what the research told them was needed (or not needed in fact)!

Auckland Transport installed parking meters and signage, at huge expense, that no one asked for (who would, for goodness sake) and included the existing free car parks within the new pricing regime catchment area.

All this for no apparent reason other than mindless revenue gathering. As noted above, they also extended the paid parking hours through until 9pm and included Saturdays and in some instances Sundays as well. (How does that make the church goers in the area feel I wonder.)

I have written to Phil and Lester and asked them to remove the newly installed parking meters and restore the free parking for all the Ponsonby, Freemans Bay, St Marys Bay, Herne Bay, Westmere and Grey Lynn residents.

I speak for so many of my neighbours who wholeheartedly welcome the roll out of cycle lanes. What’s the alternative, more and more cars on our roads? Remember, over 800 new cars are introduced to Auckland roads every single week! And, as for Lisa Prager to constantly claim in the media that she is the voice of the community is utter nonsense.

Doesn’t she realise that the constant disrupting of a taxpayers' funded construction programme that has been supported by elected politicians costs us, the taxpayer, extra money? Admittedly, the West Lynn cycling project is not perfect but at least it will provide a safer alternative than cycling on our increasingly congested and polluted roads.

Ultimately, we have to face up to the fact that the way we move around our growing city has to fundamentally change. Cycling has been proven to be transformational in so many cities across the world, so let us celebrate cycling lanes rather than demonise an innovative and healthy solution. After all our children and our children’s children are expecting more from us. Jay Faata, Ponsonby Views in Ponsonby News reflect the authors’ and not those of Alchemy Media.

69,000 READERS PER MONTH

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(Nielsen Media)

PONSONBY NEWS+ is printed on paper sourced from sustainable, well managed forests and manufactured under the environmental management system ISO 14001. Our hand-delivered copies are flow wrapped in eco-friendly, degradable plastic.

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FROM THE EDITOR PONSONBY NEWS IS AWAITING A REPORT FROM THE WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD ON how its weed control contractor, Ventia, is reducing the use of glyphosate products in our parks and reserves. They will also report on the transfer of weed control on the roadsides and berms in our community from Auckland Transport back to Auckland Council Parks and Reserves - P22.

Photography: Deirdre Thurston aka Annie Leibovitz

Last month, John Elliott and I attended a meeting of the Occupy Garnet Road supporters group at the Saint Columba Church in Surrey Crescent. Lisa Prager, Penny Bright and Gael Baldock outlined their gripes with Auckland Transport over cycleways and the redevelopment of the West Lynn shopping district - P36.

If you like gardening, good food and music you will enjoy attending the Kelmarna Autumn Festival on Sunday 11 March, 11am - 3pm. The festival is a collaboration and celebration of the many businesses, community groups and individuals that make up our Kelmarna community, and we hope that you'll come along and be part of it - P29.

At her home on Franklin Road, many of Deirdre Roelants’ friends, family - movers and shakers - gathered last month for her final send off. It was a perfect afternoon - loads of laughs and a few tears. Thank you to everyone who attended. We also wish to acknowledge Soho Wine Co with its generous contribution along with Tart Bakery for all the lovely vegan sausage rolls, the delicious sandwiches and fruit cake. I met so many new people who all had funny stories to tell about our wonderful and dearly departed friend. Deirdre was the author of our long-running column 'Street Names', which provided rich insight into the history of our local streets. R.I.P Deirdre 25 April 1934 - 4 February 2018 - P38.

We were excited to discover a new plant-based eatery had opened in Herne Bay. This month’s cover stars are the co-owners - Chris Kinnell, Louise and James Logan of The Butcher’s son. Gary Steel has reviewed them - P58.

This month’s special feature is on electric transport - John Elliott and I enjoyed a trial run of e-bikes, provided by Maurice from Electric Bike Hub in East Street. We had a detailed briefing about how to ride these bikes from Maurice and Emilio, but it turned out to be easy. The e-bikes do what supporters claim for them - they 'flatten' Auckland and they allow cyclists to use the electric motors to supplement pedalling - P66.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

L to R: Gwynne Davenport, Joanne Barrett, Melissa Paynter, Martin Leach and Jay Platt Anyone who attended the Auckland Pride Parade last month say it was the best ever.

A great celebration of the diversity in Ponsonby. There were over 3000 participants and 60 floats. It’s great to see mainstream organisations like the police, navy, airforce and all political parties joining the celebration. Jacinda Ardern, our wonderful PM, became the first prime minister to walk the strip in support - P110.

Last month we had an intruder in our back garden shortly after 9pm. We called 111 and within 10 minutes we had a police helicopter circling above our property. Five minutes later, two police arrived and they thoroughly checked our back garden. No one was caught but we were impressed with the prompt police response.

Don’t miss our April issue. We are including PLANNING SPECIAL EVENTS: Engagements - Weddings - Honeymoons - Holidays and Getaways. (MARTIN LEACH) F PN

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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22 Herne Bay Road Herne Bay

5 Ardmore Road Herne Bay

27 Picton Street Freemans Bay

13 Herne Bay Road Herne Bay

43 Sussex Street Grey Lynn

89 Norfolk Street Ponsonby

51 Albany Road Herne Bay

33 Peel Street Westmere

19 Costley Street Freemans Bay

78 Beresford Street West Freemans Bay

28 Picton Street Freemans Bay

78 West End Road Westmere

36B Picton Street Freemans Bay

76 Albany Road Herne Bay

16 Scanlan Street Grey Lynn

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW Rex A. McClenaghan is a creative director/ production designer and long-time Grey Lynn resident. In fact, when in New Zealand, he’s never lived anywhere else.

Good childhood?

Great childhood spent five days a week at dance classes.

Your show business career both here and overseas is astonishing, tell us about it?

I started choreographing in Auckland at 18. Tibour Rudas took me to Australia to work in his big production shows before moving into TV and film. I moved to Hong Kong and was choreographer at TVB Jade before moving to the Philippines as choreographer for the National Dance Company and director of the two top singing groups in the country, along with TV and three Miss Asia and Miss Universe contests. I returned to Oz and started my own production company.

What do you think of live stage shows today?

Depends on the show; most today are visual epics and high-tech productions.

Complete the sentence: I will die happy if…

I’ve completed my bucket list and made a difference.

Your bucket list?

So much, although there’s a hole in my bucket.

The most annoying celebrity today?

Donald Trump, worst reality show ever!

Which TV series would you never miss?

Game of Thrones - brilliant characters and plot lines with a heap of stabby stabby.

Where would your dream holiday be?

Barcelona. Love the city, food and the people.

Your most treasured passion?

My gold toothpick given to me by Shani Wallis, star of the film Oliver.

The most Kiwi thing about you?

My New Zealand passport and that’s where it ends.

Aisle or window seat on a plane?

Aisle, can’t sleep on long haul flights and like to stretch my legs. It’s also closer to bar service.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Still living in Grey Lynn where I am.

What other job would you do?

A chef, loving food as I do and one can eat while one works.

A movie about your life, who would play you?

From a background of musicals, most probably Gene Kelly.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

I try not to look.

How would you like to be remembered?

That people could finally spell my name correctly.

What do you love most about your age?

I’ve given up counting, so all’s good.

If your life was an ice cream, what would it be called?

Totally nuts.

Something that you really disapprove of?

People who are never on time.

Your biggest disappointments?

Working with the American group the 4 Lads; the show closed after three nights - the shortest season of my career.

If you won a million dollars?

Buy an apartment in Barcelona or Menorca.

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What motivates you?

Positive people and life in general, along with my dogs.

What do you think happens when we die?

People finally say nice things about you.

Ever seen a ghost?

Not yet although there is still time in my life.

Give your teenaged self advice?

Don’t waste time and make it count for something.

How do you chill out?

At a friend’s farm with my dogs.

Which item of clothing can't you live without?

Levi’s 501s; essential part of anyone’s wardrobe.

Favourite time of the day?

The long lunch.

Your dream home?

As long as there are lots of animals, it’s a dream home.

What are you insecure about?

Very little. I try to be positive every day... dogs help.

Something very few people know about you?

That I’m part Maori and Portuguese.

Greatest fear?

I have none, I’m at ease with life.

What superpower do you wish you had?

Most probably flight, so one doesn't have to endure airline food.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Being able to play the piano a little more than chop sticks.

Cliché you most hate?

She’ll be right.

Cannot live without?

My car keys.

Weakness/indulgence?

Good cognac.

A handshake or a hug kind of person?

Depends on the person and the situation.

Comfort food?

Fresh figs and blue cheese.

Dream dinner party list?

Shani Wallis, Jackie Trent, Sheila Cruze, Gwen Verdon, Bob Fosse, Sammy Davis Jnr and Jerome Robbins - that’s the entertainment taken care of!

Travel light or heavy?

Light and come back heavy.

Favourite movie?

‘Princess Bride’. Brilliant cameos from the various stars and a very funny script.

Change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?

Increase the infringement to a $500 instant fine like in Australia for people driving while PN talking on mobiles. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) F PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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Well, hello again, Factor 30. So, what will it be?

Beach, bike, or how about a little session at The Ponsonby Bowling Club? Great debates with good mates guaranteed. Just remember the unwritten rule; closest to the jack shouts the ďŹ rst round. Share our discoveries — keithandsandy.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT A massive council consultation is underway (28 February - 28 March). This is the opportunity, occurring every three years, to look in depth at Auckland’s 10-year budget.

As Aucklanders, we have major decisions to make about how we fund the infrastructure needed to deal with the pressure of growth and bring existing services up to a sustainable standard for a world-class city.

As part of this budget cycle, local priorities for the next financial year 18/19 are also up for discussion.

The Mayor is leading the regional consultation on what is also known as the draft Long-Term Plan (LTP) that determines the level of rates.

You can respond to questions covering the proposed introduction of a regional fuel tax to pay for improvements to transport and targeted rates to fund protection of endangered species such as kauri and the cleanup of our habours, beaches and streams.

As the board representing the main area in Auckland without stormwater separation, we are particularly focused on the long overdue infrastructure investment being brought forward by council and Watercare to stop the flow of sewage into the Waitemata Harbour.

The big question will be whether the wider region is willing to support with funding through additional rates.

Other plans that are out for consultation include the Regional Pest Management Plan, Waste Management and Minimisation Plan and the refresh of the Auckland Plan. The draft Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) budget that was 'inadvertently' released in January by Auckland Transport with a massive reduction to the cycle budget, low prioritisation of light rail and cuts to rail operating funds is now due out for consultation in April.

New board member Denise Roche with Richard Northey & Pippa Coom

The AT Board has directed management to redraft the RLTP budget to more accurately reflect priorities that council and the new Government give to walking and cycling, public transport and reducing carbon emissions. If the family-friendly Bike to the Future ride organised by Generation Zero on 17 February is any indication, there is strong local support for safe cycling infrastructure and funding for transport choice.

At the same time we welcome that the new CEO of AT, Shane Ellison, who attended the ride, has committed to the organisation taking a fresh approach to community engagement and working with local boards so that mistakes are not repeated.

the board’s transport fund. We’ve got a question on how we should allocate the approximately $500k available per year. This is in the local board section of the online feedback form along with questions about our priority project, Ponsonby Park (covered elsewhere in Ponsonby News), and funding the elimination of agri-chemical spraying, public facilities and further waterway restoration.

Further transport funding for projects like streetscape upgrades, safer speed zones and greenway connections is possible through

Details of consultation events and submission details on the Auckland Council website www.akhaveyoursay.nz

Finally, congratulations to Denise Roche for winning the Waitemata Local Board byelection. She brings passion, extensive skills and experience to the role. (PIPPA COOM) F PN

photography: Kate Battersby

Contact Pippa Coom, Chair of Waitamata Local Board, pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, www.facebook.com/waitemata

Bike to the Future ride from Westmere to West Lynn

14 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

Bike to the Future ended at Francis Street reserve for a petition presentation to AT PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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MIKE LEE: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF

Governor William Hobson - the man who gave us the treaty Early on Waitangi Day morning a small group of inner city residents, mainly from Grafton, Parnell and Arch Hill but even from as far afield as Ponsonby and Grey Lynn, as they had the year before, quietly gathered at the grave of Governor William Hobson to pay tribute to the man who gave us the Treaty of Waitangi and brought New Zealand into the British Empire.

A wreath, posies of flowers and a New Zealand flag were respectfully placed on the marble gravestone.

Waitangi Day and the treaty has had more than its share of controversies over recent years, so much so that Captain William Hobson R.N. and his role in those momentous events of early February 1840 has been rather overlooked.

What of the man himself? Interestingly enough, this very dutiful servant of Empire was born in Ireland in 1792, the son of an AngloIrish barrister in the city of Waterford. Hobson joined the Royal Navy in 1803 during the Napoleonic Wars, just one month short of 11.

Graduating to midshipman he passed his examinations and was commissioned lieutenant in 1813. Command followed in 1824. Most of Hobson’s sea service was in the West Indies intercepting pirate ships and launching raids on their bases (’nests’). In those times this duty was especially arduous not least because of the region’s often deadly tropical diseases one of which Hobson reportedly contracted.

Illness was followed by a period six years ashore on half pay.

However, Hobson’s luck changed in 1834 when the First Lord of the Admiralty, Lord Auckland (George Eden), to Hobson’s eternal gratitude, arranged for him the highly desirable command of the frigate Rattlesnake. In her, Hobson was posted to the East India Station, during which time he visited Port Jackson, New South Wales in 1837. While he was in Sydney, Hobson was ordered by New Zealand to show the flag and to report on the country’s ‘lawless’ situation. His report so impressed his superiors, it led to his appointment in 1839 as Consul to New Zealand.

Hobson’s Treaty of Waitangi and his achievement in persuading the leading rangatira of the north to sign it (they had very little to go on except for their impression of his integrity) was a remarkable triumph.

But as so often happens, great success was followed not by acclaim and happiness, but rather misfortune and sorrow. On 1 March Hobson suffered what is believed to be a hemiplegic stroke. However, he soon recovered. Returning to full duties he resolved to move his capital to Tamaki on the Waitemata harbour, thereby founding the city of Auckland. This, his second great historic accomplishment, drew bitter criticism from New Zealand company settlers in Wellington where almost overnight from canvas tents and nikau whares colonial society had sprung up, complete with declaiming newspapers and turbulent meetings of irate settlers. Thereafter, Hobson was constantly denounced by the colonists - even in Auckland! (Lending truth to the adage ‘no good deed goes unpunished’).

Hobson’s task to build a country with an administration that was hopelessly under-resourced, mediating between the Maori chiefs with whom he had signed the treaty on the one hand, and land-hungry businessmen who proved to be more formidable than the pirates of the Caribbean on the other, would have been difficult enough for the most experienced politician or bureaucrat. William Hobson was neither of these. A sea officer trained to obey orders and to have his orders obeyed, he found criticism, especially public criticism, extremely difficult to bear. As Prof Russell Stone observed in his ‘From Tamaki-Makau-Rau to Auckland’: "In Captain William Hobson there was much to admire. He was brave, conscientious, and diligent in his public duties. His private life was beyond reproach; he was a loving husband and a devoted family man. Yet of all the governors... he was the least popular and the most calumniated."

Dr Ron Trubuhovich in his remarkable investigation ‘Governor William Hobson - His Health problems and Final Illness’, wrote of Hobson’s mysterious final days: "During the months after returning to Auckland, pressures mounted, particularly at the hands of the town’s ‘Clique’ whose members hounded him mercilessly, instigating public meetings to humiliate him when his enfeebled condition was worsening. In Aug. 1842, too sick to attend public meetings, he was asked to sign petitions condemnatory of himself in attachments to memorials from citizens’ meetings."

Dr Trubuhovich concluded, "Perhaps it was all too much for him, he simply gave up in spirit and allowed/wished himself to die." He was only 49.

Governor Hobson, architect of the Treaty of Waitangi, founder of the modern state of New Zealand, founder of the city of Auckland, is buried in Symonds Street cemetery. It is a strange feeling to go there and stand at the grave of this ancient figure from an entirely different age to our own. There is a quietness there, even though it is only metres from the Southern Motorway on-ramp, where traffic roars by.

He has lain there for 172 years, largely forgotten by the citizens of the country and the city he founded. He was the only governor to PN stay. (MIKE LEE) F Mike Lee is the Auckland Councillor for Waitemata & Gulf Ward, www.mikelee.co.nz

Respect for the governor

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Our senior citizens’ dental health problems Back in the day, a bride’s parents would pay for the bride to have her teeth out and dentures fitted before the marriage so the groom would not have the expense. It was part of a bride’s dowry.

Nowadays, dentists do their utmost to save teeth from extraction throughout our lives, often at huge cost.

Dental care for New Zealand’s elderly is becoming prohibitively expensive. Unlike Australia, where health insurance policies routinely include dental care, New Zealanders usually have little or no insurance.

The only assistance the state gives is a grant of $300 a year, means tested, for emergency dental work. This is available, through WINZ for community services card holders only.

“So people are now needing an extra 40 years of dental health care,” Vikki said.

Quick temporary fixes are too often the order of the day. Had her sister, Deanna, been talking to Vikki about me?

My previous dentist Sandy Imrie, from the Newmarket Dental Group, has now retired, but he used to say regularly to me “that tooth needs capping when your ship comes in,” to which I would answer, “just fill the bugger for now.”

A recent survey of 2000 New Zealanders showed 53% put off a visit to the dentist, 71% don’t visit a dentist annually because of the cost, 34% go to a dentist only when in pain, and 38% are unhappy with their teeth.

It is high time for some Government assistance to our seniors for dental treatment.

Fillings, gum disease, broken teeth: all are reducing the quality of life for many of our citizens. If they are in pain, and can’t afford to go to the dentist, further mouth trouble is surely ahead. At a certain point, people can’t chew any longer and their food choices become limited.

A growing trend, which is worrying some dentists and the New Zealand Dental Association, is tourism dentistry.

Their quality of life diminishes, and they feel like their lives have resulted in failure.

Depression and loneliness is growing among our elderly in New Zealand.

A spokesman for the association warned that New Zealand dentists were increasingly being asked to pick up the pieces after less than competent treatment has been performed overseas.

Old people seem, eventually, to be able to get hip and knee replacements, but their teeth rot and fall out while no one comes to their assistance.

Roy Watson runs Absolutely Thailand - a business that offers to organise your travel, accommodation and dental treatment at a 'reliable certified clinic'. He has had some 400 clients since his business began five years ago. He said treatment costs about a third of that charged in New Zealand and people could often get their treatment and holiday at a cheaper price than treatment alone here.

Some dentists are worried about hepatitis, aids and other infections from inadequate clinics overseas.

In my 80th year, I am one of those who seeks the minimum dental care I need. I know my teeth are suffering from this neglect, but the costs are becoming prohibitive.

I know, too, that those costs are not resulting in a proliferation of Ferraris and Lamborghinis in the garages of our dentists, who have to keep up to date with, and buy, the latest technology to patch up neglected mouths, all while patients grizzle about the cost. Dental students rack up the highest student loans of any professional.

One advantage dentists have is that they can keep patients mouths stuffed so they can’t bleat on!

I spoke to Vikki Nelson, a dentist from the practice I use, Keith Nelson and Associates. She confirmed my anecdotal evidence that many seniors are neglecting their dental needs.

She agreed that practice costs were constantly rising. “It’s an expensive business to run,” she told me.

Some young people are renting clothes, so they can look and feel different each time they go out. You can’t rent teeth, although we have heard old stories of families sharing dentures when they go out.

Vikki Nelson said people now had an expectation of living to 80 or 90, hopefully still with a mouth full of teeth. If those teeth are not looked after in their younger years, fillings will often not last five years, whereas a 20 year old can expect a filling to last 20 years.

It would be fair, just and humane for the Government to pick up some of the dental costs of our elderly citizens. I don’t think the practice of sharing dentures will catch on again PN any time soon. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

Denise Roche wins seat on local board Well-known Green Party politician, Denise Roche recently won the by-election for a vacant seat on the Waitemata Local Board.

There was a dismal 18% turnout. How can people complain about council activity and decisions if they don’t even bother to vote?

whatever portfolio responsibilities Chair Pippa Coom and her board think are appropriate.

Roche is an experienced politician with council and central government experience.

However, as Roche points out in a statement about her victory, “Campaigning over the summer period makes it hard to drive up interest, and certainly the heat and wet weather offered challenges. It was gratifying to see 10,000 people did vote.”

There were several able candidates vying for the seat. Roche scored 2917 votes in preliminary counting, just 200 votes ahead of Greg Moyle. Moyle will be disappointed not to have joined the board, which he has previously been a member of. He was the 'balance the board candidate', being not a City Vision person. Alan Matson, an independent and well-known local heritage expert, got 1936 votes and was third.

Roche sees her first job as getting to grips with the Local Board Plan and the up-coming council plan.

“I’m really passionate about the impact of plastic pollution on our waterways, beaches and the marine environment,” she told Ponsonby News.

Denise Roche has an extensive background in waste management and waste recovery.

She is complimentary about the hard-working board members she will join, and will take

20 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

Waitemata is a large and busy ward, so there will be plenty of jobs for a well-qualified person like Denise Roche to get her teeth into.

We at Ponsonby News congratulate her on her victory and wish her well as one of our PN local board members. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

The banning of the carcinogen - glyphosate Last year Ponsonby News featured articles for several months on the mounting evidence that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup herbicide, is a probable carcinogen for humans.

I have joined with other local opponents of glyphosate, including experts and long-time campaigners, Hana Blackmore and Meriel Watts, who have made presentations to Auckland Council calling for it to ban the use of glyphosate in our parks and reserves and on our streets and berms.

There is some evidence that the use of glyphosate in the Waitemata Ward has been reduced, and I am awaiting a report from Chair Pippa Coom on how far glyphosate use has been fazed out by the new contractor, Ventia, and what the next steps will be.

The council is also taking over some of the responsibilities for road spraying from Auckland Transport, which has been extremely reluctant to discuss how much glyphosate they are using.

Despite this possible progress, Auckland Council remains determined not to ban the use of glyphosate products.

One of the main reasons for this stance is that the controlling agency in New Zealand is the Environmental Protection Authority, which takes its cue from the United States EPA, which continues to assert that glyphosate is not carcinogenic. This stance is despite an important report of the prestigious, global, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in 2016, declaring that “glyphosate is a probable human carcinogen.”

Now, a series of reports late last year and proposed law suits in California and San Franscisco, have brought sensational news about Monsanto’s manipulation of research papers, including having their own officers ‘ghost write’ papers and present them as independent studies.

Lawyers representing people with a range of health problems after exposure to Roundup and its carcinogenic ingredient glyphosate, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, have filed a growing wave of law suits against Monsanto in the United States.

Internal documents from Monsanto, exposed after Freedom of Information lawsuit requests, have shown collusion between Monsanto executives and Environmental Protection Agency officers.

The EPA has been a stalwart supporter of Monsanto’s claims that glyphosate is safe.

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

In a paper called Decades of Deception, Carey Gillam, has written about Monsanto’s "long-running secretive campaign to manipulate the scientific record, to sway public opinion, and to influence regulatory assessments."

Internal records also show Monsanto executives discussing multiple incidences of drafting and writing research papers that when published would appear to be authored by unbiased sources. This is known as ghost writing. In one email a Monsanto scientist suggested “we ghost write” certain sections of a paper just as they had “handled” an earlier paper supporting glyphosate safety.

In another case, Dan Jenkins, a senior Monsanto executive, discussed how the damning IARC document could be negated. Jenkins then talked to Jess Rowland a senior EPA officer about how to deal with fallout from the IARC report labelling glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic.” Rowland did his best for his Monsanto buddy, saying “if I can kill this I should get a medal.”

Jenkins in these internal emails went on to say, “Don’t get your hopes up. I doubt EPA and Jess can kill this, but it is good they are going to make the effort.”

In a 3 Sept email Jenkins told Monsanto colleagues: “Rowland is planning to retire in about five of six months, and could be useful as we move forward with ongoing glyphosate defence.”

These revelations are not gossip, they are from discovered internal documents which prove the EPA complicity in Monsanto’s deceptions.

Protecting corporate profits over public safety is a tried and true playbook for many powerful industries. But given the alarming evidence of scientific deceit now being revealed about Monsanto and glyphosate, it is imperative that our Environmental Protection Authority comes out from under the coat tails of it’s US counterpart, who is failing US citizens, and millions of others worldwide, who are suffering the adverse health effects of exposure to a now clearly designated human carcinogen. Our EPA must act in the interests of all New Zealanders and ban the use of glyphosate in New Zealand.

It’s time for the New Zealand Government to intervene if they do not.

PN (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

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LOCAL NEWS Ponsonby Park - update With your support - one last final push - Ponsonby Park will be funded for stage 1 to begin the realisation of our civic open space at 254 Ponsonby Road (Liquor King site).

The 'Long Term Plan' is now open for public consultation and submissions, until 28 March.

Please support your chosen LandLAB whole-of-site civic open space design for Ponsonby Park in your submission. Chosen by the community - for the community.

Here is the consultation information and question that is in the ‘Long Term Plan’ consultation, as prepared by the Waitemata Local Board: Our key advocacy project: A full site civic and green space at 254 Ponsonby Road will provide a much-needed area for the community’s growing population. We are seeking the Governing Body to include $5.5m in the 10-year budget for stage 1 of this project.

The first stage includes the delivery of a civic and green space, the repurposing of the existing canopy structure for markets and events and the development of public toilet facilities.

Stage 2 will repurpose the existing building and improve the adjoining streetscape. Potential funding options for stage 2 include our Auckland Transport capex fund and other alternative funding sources.

Have we got our priorities right? Please provide feedback.

Do you support the 10-year budget to include first stage funding to create a full site civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road?

Please submit to the ‘Long Term Plan’ and say yes to the full site civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road.

The considerable amenity and value the new Ponsonby Park civic space will provide for the local community, not to mention our national and international visitors, is immense. In stage 1 the LandLAB design cleverly repurposes the existing canopy to provide an all-weather shelter for events and hopefully a local farmers market. With the addition of the green-roof and green-walls, plus the extensive permeable surfaces, it will also help protect our harbours from stormwater run -off and the consequent sewerage overflows that inevitably result from heavy downpours. The Swale will also help mitigate stormwater runoff whilst being a beautiful and natural feature.

Ponsonby Park will be an exemplar of sustainable and best practice design that will be an attractor to Ponsonby and will also provide much-needed amenity (including loos!) for the community. We are excited about this transformative development, facilitated through

the inclusive Community-led design process that so many people have been invoved with and supported over the past two years. Our thanks to everyone who has been part of this process and who have supported our volunteer work!

Additionally, the CLD group wishes to thank the Waitemata Local Board for initiating the Community-led design process (that resulted in the brilliant LandLAB design) and for then selecting Ponsonby Park as their ‘One Local Initiative’ (OLI) for inclusion in the Long Term Plan for funding.

Have your say events that the local board are hosting with community: • Thursday 8 March, 6-8pm, Grey Lynn Library Hall, 474 Great North Road • Thursday 15 March, 6-8pm, Parnell Jubilee Hall, 45 Parnell Road • Thursday 22 March, 3-5pm, Waitemata Local Board Office, 52 Swanson Street Submit yes to the full site civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road. www.akhaveyoursay.nz PN (JENNIFER WARD) F For more information or to contact us, please see our webpage www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz or our Facebook page ‘Ponsonby Park'

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Sentinel Stunner Centrally located in the highly desirable northern slopes of Herne Bay, this substantial entertainers’ villa offers the perfect combination of relaxed and formal modern living.

The graceful and inviting entranceway, leads through to the main level which has been beautifully renovated including wide open spaces, blonde French-oak floors, gas central heating, custom made shelving and cabinetry and an ethereal, light filled, neoclassical bathroom. Comfortable and stylish right now, this home also has potential to add value over time if you wish.

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AUCTION: On site at 6:30 p.m. Thursday 15th March 2018 (unless sold prior) View: nzsothebysrealty.com/BSA10984 www.21sentinelroad.com

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PONSONBY U3A: FEBRUARY 2018 Award-winning scientist Dr Siouxsie Wiles was the guest speaker at the February meeting of Ponsonby U3A. Her message was a stark one for us all. Her talk, 'The End of Modern Medicine?' posed the question “Is this the end of the golden age of antibiotics,” and the answer was, “Yes.” Experts predict that within five to 10 years we will run out of antibiotics.

Dr Wiles has made a career of manipulating microbes. She is head of the Bioluminescent Superbugs Lab at the University of Auckland and describes herself as a microbiologist and bioluminescence enthusiast. She combines her twin passions to understand infectious diseases. The work of the Superbugs Lab is to discover life saving medicines as they test over 9000 fungi for new ways to fight antibiotic-resistant superbugs.

Her talk outlined the world-wide crisis threatening to return us to the pre-antibiotic era within a decade, where a stubbed toe could mean death and routine surgery, organ transplantation and cancer treatment become life-threateningly risky once again. She explained how this crisis came to be, what threats it poses to us here in New Zealand and what we can all do to help.

She has won numerous awards for her ethical use of animals in scientific research as well as for her science communication activities. Most recently she was named a Blake Leader by the Sir Peter Blake Trust. She has just published her first book, Antibiotic resistance: the end of modern medicine? At the time of writing she had been named as one of three finalists for New Zealander of the Year 2018.

Ten minute speaker, U3A member Don Hill, summed up his current situation as “Lost in the Web.” After a distinguished career in the newspaper and magazine publishing industries he now finds himself “trying to come to terms” with the Ponsonby U3A website, redesigning it and writing the content. He said he has designed a lot of newspapers and magazines in his time, but while being a content provider he has never actually put together a website. He talked of the ways the website could be used beyond providing newsletter style information and was keen that members become involved in the content.

Don Hill is a typical U3A member. After an engrossing career, he is following his interests and meeting with like-minded people through U3A. Ponsonby U3A was founded in 1994 - as part of the world-wide U3A (University of the Third Age) movement. It provides learning opportunities, along with social and leisure activities for those in the 'third age'. There are more than 20 special-interest groups for members, spanning a wide range of topics and activities.

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

“At the moment we are inundated with enquiries and the February meeting saw a number of new members as well as visitors, including a couple from a U3A group in Belsize Park in London,” said president Collene Roche. “Visitors are welcome to attend our meetings to see what we are all about. However, people wishing to attend as a visitor are asked to telephone me prior to the meeting.”

Guest speaker for the March meeting will be Heather Baigent - 'Inspirational Exporters'.

The 10 minute speaker will be U3A member John Stewart. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F PN NEXT MEETING:

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

ENQUIRIES:

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

LOCAL NEWS Contribute to your community centre Ponsy Kids and the Ponsonby Community Centre is governed by a charitable board, with members having diverse skills and areas of experience.

We are in need of some new members with strong governance skills and experience in finance, property, HR or the law as our first priorities. An interest in our local community and a willingness to volunteer approximately five hours of your time a month would also be helpful attributes.

social, educational and recreational activities for the community. Built in 1881, Ponsonby Community Centre was initially an infant school, called the Ponsonby Side School. ln 1898 the building was moved to its present site from the opposite side of Ponsonby Terrace. It continued operating as an infant school long after the closure of the main school in 1932.

Please email the manager at lisa@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz for more information on the application process.

The building was purchased by council in 1958 and in1970 was opened as the Ponsonby Community Centre and housed the country’s first Citizens Advice Bureau and provided a local venue for community groups and services. The King Cobras, a local Polynesian street gang, were also based in the building and they donated funds for much-needed repairs as well as delivering Meals on Wheels to elderly people in the neighbourhood.

A bit about us…

The Ponsonby Community Centre is a not-for-profit community organisation, providing

The centre remains a well-used public facility and community preschool. F PN www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz

WE NEED YOUR EXPERTISE! The Ponsonby Community Centre, including Ponsy Kids Community Preschool, is looking for community minded people with professional skills to join our Board.

For more information please email the Manager on lisa@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz @thePonsonbyCommunityCentre | 20 Ponsonby Tce www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz | 378 1752

26 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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LUCIA MATAIA: LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY NEWS Auckland Pride Festival A huge thanks for the community support shown during the Auckland Pride festival in February.

The Pride poetry speakeasy, a collaboration between Same same but different and Leys Institute Library, was held on a balmy evening in our courtyard. Congratulations to all those who had the courage to stand up, take the mic and share their written words.

Pasifika During the month of March, Lucia and Ali will present a special Pasifika Storytime on Friday 16 March at 10:30am. There will be a singalong with the ukulele, rhymes and stories. Also, look out for our special Pacific-themed book display.

Book sale Our next book sale will start on Thursday 29 March, that’s the Thursday before Easter. So mark that on your calendar and come along and find some treasures.

Easter Don’t forget we are closed Good Friday and Easter Monday but we will be open on Saturday 31 March. If you can’t get to Leys, you can always download an e-book or two from our Auckland Libraries website.

Or, if you haven’t used e-books and you are not too sure where to begin, we can help. Book a session with one of us here at the library and we will get you up and running with e-books.

Book recommendations If you are stuck for some new and interesting reads, here are a few suggestions courtesy of our Book Chats group. If you prefer nonfiction you may like Ants Among Elephants by Sujatha Gidla, a first-hand account of a family born into the Indian untouchable caste. Another recommendation is Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders. This book is currently one of Auckland Libraries’ top 10 popular fiction reads, and it won the 2017 Booker Prize. Need more suggestions: I, Eliza Hamilton by Susan Holloway Scott (historic fiction) and The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell. (A gothic ghost story.) And nonfiction: Ma’am Darling by Craig Brown, a witty account of the life of Princess Margaret.

Facebook We regularly post reminders for upcoming events held at the library, so stay in the loop, check out our page and let’s become ‘friends’.

PN (LUCIA MATAIA) F LEYS INSTITUTE, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 374 1315, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

After weeks of fog, we were evidently stoked to finally see the Himalayas in all their glory! Machapuchare (6993m) - the Nepalese Matterhorn - sits above Arty's head.

BIG BIKE TRIP UPDATE - INDIA It was a cold, foggy morning when the boys from Grey Lynn cycled over the Hooghly River and out of Kolkata.

That was a new experience for us. The last time we cycled in the cold was in New Zealand. With full-fingered gloves, beanies and neck warmers we made our way through West Bengal, stopping for chai, roti and samosas, with the inevitable prospect of a gawking crowd of local men counting the number of gears and playing with the brake levers always imminent. As soon as the bikes hit the deck, it would be a matter of seconds before we were surrounded. Personal space was no longer a thing on The Big Bike Trip.

The constricted visibility meant we essentially rode in a tunnel of fog all the way to the Nepalese border, only briefly seeing the fields of yellow mustard flowers in the afternoons, and having to peer over the bridge to see the waters of the Ganges as we crossed the famed river. Cycling the plains of Nepal exposed us to the most beautiful Nepali hospitality, with seemingly

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

everyone welcoming us into their homes. We rode past funeral pyres burning on mountain rivers and had to put in the hard yards to get to Kathmandu and on to Pokhara where we nestled ourselves in the shadow of Annapurna and Machapuchare.

This leg of the trip has been a far cry from the oppressive heat of South East Asia, with Nepal delivering the most amazing days of cycling we've ever had. With 13,000km under the belts, and over $10,000 raised for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer, we'd like to say a huge thank you to our sponsors and donors who have helped us thus far, as we hope to raise $1 for every kilometre ridden. If you want to follow our trip, as we inch ever closer to our London arrival, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and if you deem our cause worthy, the links to donate follow below.

Onwards and upwards. F PN Donate: http://my.leukaemia.net.nz/thebigbiketrip PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS KELMARNA COMMUNITY GARDENS AUTUMN FESTIVAL SUNDAY 11 MARCH, 11AM - 3PM About Kelmarna Kelmarna is an organic community garden and city farm on 4.5 acres of publicly owned land in urban Auckland. A green oasis in the middle of the city, our farm includes many vegetable beds, a food forest, beehives, chickens, paddocks where we keep cows and our pony, Jafa, and a farm shop where we sell our produce to the local residents and restaurants. There are three pillars to our work: • Education - we use organic gardening as a starting point for educating children and adults about how to grow food, where our food comes from, and the impact of that on our environment.

• Therapy - we support mental health clients to work their own garden plots as horticultural therapy, nurturing their plants and learning new skills.

• Live music - the stage on our Village Green has a full schedule of live music throughout the day, from musicians donating their time.

• Workshops - there will be a full programme of workshops on topics related to gardening, food, and sustainable living.

The event also includes a large KidsZone, Kelmarna seedlings and produce for sale, a raffle, stalls from local community groups and businesses, and much more.

For more information, or if you’d like to donate something or be involved in the festival, please contact Andy Boor at E: kelmarnagardens@gmail.com or T: 09 376 0472, Kelmarna Gardens, 12 Hukanui Crescent, Ponsonby

• Community - Kelmarna is open for the community to enjoy, whether they want to garden, shop or enjoy peaceful time in nature. We use food as a means to build connections between people from all walks of life.

About the Autumn Festival Our Autumn Festival is an annual free event attended by 1000+ people, which is a chance for us to showcase what we do to the wider community, as well as our major fundraiser for the year to fund our programmes.

• Food - generous local cafes and restaurants provide delicious food and donate their profits on the day to support Kelmarna.

Supporters this year include Orphans Kitchen, Millers Coffee, Nanam Eatery, Bread and Butter Bakery, Little Bird Unbakery, Organic Mechanic, Serious Popcorn, Almighty, Aotea Tonics, Nice Blocks and more.

Pip & Mary at last year's festival

St Paul’s College new, just completed Marcellin Champagnat Building on Richmond Road, Ponsonby

ST PAUL'S COLLEGE OPEN DAY AND NEW BUILDING OPENING St Paul's College 2018 Open Day is on Thursday 8 March, with two sessions at 9.30am or 1.45pm.

Applications for years 7, 8 and 9 are open for 2019, with limited spaces for years 10-13.

All parents are invited to come in to the Open Day at 183 Richmond Road, Ponsonby. It will be a chance for them to see our prominent, new Richmond Road building. The Marcellin Champagnat Building will have its blessing and official opening at 11am, Friday 23 March. This striking, just completed building designed by renowned architects Architectus now houses the college’s administration and Middle School. www.stpaulscollege.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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LOCAL NEWS ST PATRICK’S PARADE AND IRISH MUSIC AND DANCE FESTIVAL Be the first in the world to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, Ireland’s national day on Saturday 17 March at 12 noon as the St Patrick’s Parade paints Ponsonby Road green!

A vibrant collection of musicians, dancers, bands, floats and leprechauns gambol towards Western Park for a day for all Aucklanders to celebrate all that is Irish.

From 11am to 6pm the park will play host to the bustling Irish Music and Dance Festival with a party like no other showcasing traditional music, dance and costumes, plus tasty fare on site. Join in the craic this St Patrick’s Day! Key date and times: Saturday, 17 March Hugh Green Group St Patrick’s Parade 12 noon-1pm, Ponsonby Road Hugh Green Group Irish Music and Dance Festival 11am-6pm, Western Park, Ponsonby, www.stpatrick.co.nz

IS AN AUCKLAND TREE WORTH MORE THAN $2.53 PER YEAR? If Auckland Council’s Strategy for Auckland’s Urban Forest is anything to go by, the answer is “no”.

According to the council’s valuation, the trees of Auckland are worth $11,750,600 in annual benefits. Sounds like a lot? Divide it by the number of trees - 4,640,000 - and the average value wouldn’t be enough to buy a cup of coffee.

According to Auckland Council calculations, the average urban tree is worth only $2.53 per annum.

"It’s no wonder developers, private individuals, Auckland Council and CCOs destroy trees without hesitation," comments Wendy Gray, tree advocate.

She adds: "Note that the figures are based on 18% canopy cover as of 2013. The Tree Council’s surveys show a slaughter of one third of our urban trees in the past four years.

That’s approximately 1,545,120 trees. So the figure is less than 12% cover, reducing daily. We’re nearly completely bald!"

Auckland Council’s Strategy for Auckland’s Urban Forest, due to be presented to AC’s Environment and Community meeting on February 20, aims to address the problem.

Gray comments "The real problem is CCOs and council just do not value our trees.

AC’s figures are completely out of line with other cities. Adelaide values its trees at an average of $188 each, Melbourne at $928. And London’s valuation is a whopping $1020 per tree annually!"

Other cities value their trees for multiple benefits but Auckland calculates only four.

Other cities recognise the capital value of trees for their amenity services. For example, London’s 2014 project ‘Valuing London’s Urban Forest’ put the capital value of its trees at over GBP 43 billion ($81 billion). We do not value amenity.

"Trees are vitally important to growing cities. They provide a number of critical key functions, are often forgotten and undervalued," says Waitemata Local Board member, Rob Thomas.

"I think Aucklanders would be shocked to learn that their elected council values our trees so pitifully low. A $2.53 average means than even a magnificent, veteran tree that everyone loves may be worth less than $10 per annum. That can’t be right.

He continues, "As air temperature increases, due to climate change, and the city builds more impervious surfaces, our cities will become hot boxes and difficult to live in.

"The result is wholesale destruction of trees in our beautiful city. And there are signs it’s accelerating. Auckland’s urban trees are in crisis: there are now so few, every loss counts." Says Gray turning to an example close to many people’s hearts. "When you have a full head of hair, you don’t mind losing a few. But when you’re balding, every hair counts!

"We’ve got to stop destroying our trees. What’s the point of planting a million new trees when we’re cutting down thousands of valuable, established trees? We need to recognise the problem. Then, with Government’s assistance, we need a moratorium. We’ve got to take stock and value our trees properly. We have to educate everyone - and that’s from council to individual Aucklanders. But we’ve got to stop cutting down trees. Now."

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SHOP EAT DRINK AND CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY ALL DAY: MARKET DAY STALLS

HIT THE STRIP FOR FANTASTIC STALLS AND AMAZING BARGAINS! ALL ALONG PONSONBY ROAD

12PM: HUGH GREEN GROUP ST. PATRICK’S PARADE

OVER 50 IRISH THEMED FLOATS / MUSIC / ENTERTAINMENT PARADE STARTS FROM PONSONBY TERRACE TO WESTERN PARK

1-6PM: HUGH GREEN GROUP ST. PATRICK’S MUSIC & DANCE FESTIVAL LICENSED AREA AT WESTERN PARK FROM 1-6PM IRISH DANCE PERFORMANCES • IRISH BANDS AND FAMOUS ENTERTAINER SEAN KELLY • FOOD, COFFEE AND REFRESHMENTS • KIDS ENTERTAINMENT • BOUNCY CASTLE • FACE PAINTING • BALLOON TWISTING • ROAMING ENTERTAINERS (ACROBATS) STARTS AFTER THE PARADE AT WESTERN PARK

PONSONBY Auckland’s Hippest Strip Shop, eat, drink, play, repeat

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

6PM TILL LATE: PARTY ON THE STRIP ALL NIGHT LONG - ALL VENUES OPEN!

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+ March 2018 iloveponsonby.co.nz DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH PONSONBY NEWS#ILOVEPONSONBY

HELEN WHITE: REPRESENTING LABOUR FOR AUCKLAND CENTRAL

A challenging year...

I had an incredibly challenging year last year. I stood for parliament, I worked full time. I tried to keep things going at home and pay the mortgage. I have three kids, 17,19 and 22 years old. They are amazing oat looking after themselves but it was still tough trying to meet the obligations in my life. The dog suffered the most!

I was incredibly pleased I made the effort given the result but I had absolutely no idea just how hard entering the political arena would be. Nothing can prepare you for it. It is a huge learning curve. The only similar experience I had to fall back on was having my first child.

I remember saying to my mother it was like having a bus run over you, then they give you a baby to look after.

I got pregnant about the week before I interviewed for my dream job as a lawyer at the Union Law Centre in Otahuhu. I was morning sick on my first day. I had to break it to my boss. The good news is he is still my friend. I went back to work pretty quickly as I had no maternity leave or payments. It was really hard but it is probably why I am still in law today.

When I returned to work I had very mixed feelings about what I was doing. It likely didn’t help that my son had colic as I was sleep deprived. I cried a lot. I often judged myself as a pretty lousy parent and I was worried others judged me harshly for going back to work.

Friends who stayed at home with their children tell me they felt judged for doing the opposite, so apparently you can’t win.

Despite the crying, it was the most amazing time of my life.

When Jacinda announced she was pregnant I was over the moon for her. The pleasure I had for her personally, that she and Clarke wouldn’t miss out on this amazing experience, is also a feeling that translates into why I feel it is so important for the rest of us, that our Prime Minster can have a baby while in office.

Yes, working women will take heart. Women who have worked while having babies have often been portrayed as cold-hearted but it is clear that is the last thing that our Prime Minister is. We will see these stereotypes blasted out of the water.

For me, I don’t want a Prime Minister to prove you can work and have children by being superhuman. I want a Prime Minister who can be recognised as a leader while being allowed to be human.

That is what I want for New Zealanders in general. I stood for parliament because I was worried that the prevailing ethos treated people as if they were machines. I saw people being treated like failures if they didn’t fit a predetermined mould or they stumbled.

Many people felt like failures when it was just that wages were too low, house prices too high and expectations were unrealistic given how tough life can be and how different we all are.

A country where the Prime Minister has a baby is a country embracing a more interesting and realistic approach to what being human is about. That is why I think it reflects a much broader change than one effecting woman working while having babies.

Simon Wilson said in the Herald recently about Waitangi Day this year: “The new day is today. We are in it now.”

Mr Wilson was talking about the approach the Prime Minister took to that celebration, acknowledging it was not all easy but giving the process of making real connections real time, in this case a week, rather than treating the Waitangi celebrations superficially. For me, we are undergoing a fundamental change to a better, more realistic way of relating to each other. It was present at Waitangi but it was when our Prime Minister announced she was having a baby that I knew the new day was today, and I wish her all the best. (HELEN WHITE) F PN Helen White representing Labour for Auckland Central. www.labour.org.nz/helenwhite

photography: Clare Gemima

Fathers who want to stay at home will be equally grateful, but working mothers and stay-at-home fathers aren’t the only ones who benefit.

The way I see it, even those who don’t have children benefit from the fundamentally more human approach the Prime Minister is taking to being our leader.

Opening Pride Parade Ceremony with PM Jacinda Adern

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS NEW DEAL MAKES ‘WYNYARD HYBRID’ PROPOSAL A VIABLE OPTION FOR AMERICA’S CUP The Government and Auckland Council welcome a new deal to free up land on Wynyard Point.

This now opens up the possibility of a new Wynyard hybrid option that will deliver a world class America’s Cup village on Auckland’s waterfront in 2020-21.

Mayor Phil Goff says, “The deal which sees Stolthaven Terminals vacate the premises earlier is great for Auckland regardless of where the bases for the America’s Cup will be. It is a good legacy for our city.”

The proposed Wynyard hybrid option provides for at least seven syndicate bases around two basins in the Wynyard area with provision for restaurants and bars, public viewing, and hospitality areas.

Mayor Goff says, “I am pleased that council and Government officials have been working collaboratively to reach a consensus. The Wynyard hybrid option proposal reduces the need for large extensions into the harbour while creating a vibrant and connected America’s Cup village that competitors and the public can enjoy,” he says.

“The America’s Cup will be fantastic for New Zealand. We want Auckland to host the cup, and council and Government are working with Emirates Team New Zealand to ensure that we can provide the infrastructure in a timely manner and deliver an incredible event,” says Mayor Goff.

The Wynyard hybrid option incorporates elements of the Wynyard Basin option, agreed by the council in December and publicly notified last month, and the Wynyard Point variant explored by the Government.

Economic Development Minister David Parker says the proposal is a win-win-win for all parties, reducing costs and environmental impact while offering an excellent venue for the defence.

The agreement with Dutch company Stolthaven Terminals to vacate its southern tank farm site on Wynyard Point has also cleared the way for more land-based locations and reduced the proposed extension to Halsey Wharf from 75 metres to 35 metres.

“I believe the proposal will create a legacy for Auckland and all of New Zealand - our main aim alongside creating a top class venue for Team New Zealand and the cup defence in 2021 and, hopefully, beyond,” Mr Parker says.

“With Stolthaven Terminals vacating its premises we are able to reclaim previously unusable land on Wynyard wharf and accelerate aspects of the redevelopment of Wynyard Point that will create a lasting legacy for Auckland after the cup.

Mayor Goff has discussed the Wynyard hybrid option with Auckland’s councillors and it will be considered by council’s Governing Body in the near future. Government and council will continue discussions PN with Emirates Team New Zealand. F

The plans can be viewed at: www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/infrastructure-growth/americas-cup

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DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

Employment law changes could mean fewer jobs in Auckland In February I spoke in Parliament about my concerns regarding the Government’s proposed changes to employment law.

New Zealand is a country with many small and medium sized businesses, and that’s particularly true here in Auckland Central. From your local coffee shop in Herne Bay to the fashion retailer in Ponsonby, small and medium sized businesses are the engine room of our economy. Small and medium sized businesses provide many of the job opportunities and incomes for families, young people and our most vulnerable people.

There is no electorate like Auckland Central that has so many businesses based here but also so many young people that live here. The changes proposed to employment law will affect us the most, so I will be taking a strong interest in these proposals to ensure we strike the right balance of ensuring young businesses are not loaded with costs and barriers while ensuring that people get a fair go and there is a healthy balance in the relationship between employers and employees.

The changes proposed include the end of the starting out wage, the removal of 90 day trials for businesses with more than 20 staff (including casual and part timers), big leaps in the minimum wage, reduced employment flexibility, and 1970s style, standardised wage bargaining. These changes taken together will mean fewer jobs for Kiwi workers, increases in the cost of living and fewer competitive businesses. It is important to continue to increase the minimum wage as we did consistently when we were in government. However, the pace of that change matters as it can have a huge impact on businesses if you do it too fast. Many small businesses simply have limited choices in that if costs go up, they have to reduce their staffing bill or employ fewer people.

Hon Nikki Kaye MP for Auckland Central I regularly work on local issues and meet with constituents.

Please contact my office if you would like to meet with me.

Drop In Constituency Clinic: 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay March 16th 2:00pm

photography: Susan Blick Photography

Auckland has been performing well in recent times and we all want that to continue. The employment growth for Auckland ranges from 3.4% to 9.5% so it’s important we don’t do anything to upset this. The new Government has launched the first wave of their employment law reforms that could do just that. The reforms as proposed will increase risks and costs for small and medium sized businesses and that can only hurt jobs and slow our city down.

Unfortunately, we are already seeing businesses across the country lose confidence as a result of the policies of the new Government. These reforms are one of the big reasons for that decline. New Zealand has an enviable track record over the last few years for lifting employment and growing wages. For the last two years, an average of over 10,000 jobs have been created every month. The unemployment rate is at its lowest level since the GFC in 2008, and the proportion of people in work is the third highest in the developed world. Given that track record, we believe the Government at the very least needs to explain the reasons behind these reforms. We need to be honest about what the Government’s intentions are. National backs workers and businesses to have modern grown-up conversations about employment policies like pay, leave and allowances. Forcing extra costs on small and medium sized businesses is not ‘working with them’. And you don’t improve things for New Zealand workers by increasing the cost of goods made in New Zealand.

National has launched a campaign called ‘Protect NZ Jobs’ to help small and medium sized businesses better understand and fight the Government’s proposed employment reforms. Go to our website www.protectnzjobs.co.nz to find out more information about these reforms and our campaign. Auckland Central is growing well and there is a strong future ahead for our families, our young people and our most vulnerable people. Let’s not do anything to upset that growth.

Celebrating Auckland with Pride It was great to walk down Ponsonby Road again for the annual Pride Parade. I am proud to be one of a small group of people that helped bring a parade for the LGBTIQ community back to Auckland. Congratulations to all those people who organised and supported the parade this year. I also want to acknowledge the many groups, community organisations, businesses and individuals who walked in the parade. There have been numerous gains made in the last decade for the LGBTIQ community including Member of Parliament Louisa Wall’s marriage equality legislation passing, the formal apology by Parliament to men convicted under old laws that criminalised homosexuality, and more funding invested to support LGBTIQ youth. However, we still have a lot more to do, particularly to prevent the bullying of LGBTIQ youth. (NIKKI KAYE) F PN If you have any local or national issues or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me or my office on 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.

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

Authorised by Hon Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay. www.nikkikaye.co.nz

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DEIRDRE THURSTON: ON MY MIND

Crickets, cicadas, mosquitoes, spiders and paradise Is this the hottest summer ever?

I don’t know about your gardens, but mine’s what I imagine a small trek through the Amazon jungle might be like - minus monkeys unfortunately, and slippery, silvery snakes fortunately. However, the mozzies are humungous and hungry even though they are so bloated with blood they can barely manage a whine. Biting me is second nature for them. They’re partial to blood type O (me), heavy breathers and pregnant women (not me) and cause more deaths than any other animal in the world. A mozzie can do considerable damage in its short lifespan of up to a month.

There can be five other red-blooded humans in my garden but the whingers make a straight mozzie-line for me. My curly headed friend chuckles at me as I lather myself in poison which is supposed to keep the critters at bay but is, in fact, shortening my life not theirs.

“You’re such a natural, organic girl, I don’t get it,” she reads out the chemical list on the bottle. I pretend not to hear, or hum “Go Away Little Girl” loudly. She doesn’t get the correlation as the fat mozzies fly past her bare arms and land on me, chemicals and all.

At least the cicadas don’t bite. There must be hundreds of them, their buzzing almost deafening. Must have sounded a bit like this at the Coliseum when the lions were let in to cavort with the gladiators.

Apparently they are the loudest insect known to man. Not surprising they want their voices to be heard after living for 13 to 17 years underground before they surface, climb a tree and become adult.

Sounds remarkably simple compared to a human’s growth trials and tribulations. Those teen years could cause a lot less parental stress if spent underground. The teens, not the parents. Female cicadas gravitate towards lawnmowers, mistaking them for hot, singing males.

How disappointing.

There are a handful of happy, sated minors, blackbirds and fantails in the garden. They swoop onto my deck and scoop up fat, sunsleepy cicadas in their beaks to feast on. Circle of life, I tell myself as I wave adieu.

Night time the crickets are the rock stars. Waking up at 3.08 this morning to a cacophony of chirping black beauties was incredibly soothing. Their song is the Kiwi version of Tibetan singing bowls. Only

the male chirps. The females remain silent. I’ve saved a spindly baby or two from my bedroom. They seem to like my room in particular.

I can’t blame them; it is a most comfy room. Killing a cricket is bad luck. According to American native Indians, they are harbingers of good luck. Chinese, in the past, kept them as pets. How times change.

At the moment, I’m toasting cricket-flour bread. ‘They’ say that crickets will be a worldwide, staple food that saves us from hunger while keeping us all clear-eyed and sprightly, being high in protein and packed with vitamins. Crickets sing out of love and anger. They don’t merely chirrup a pretty song and wait for admirers to sashay in, they also sing to intimidate handsome rivals. I love that they listen with their legs.

I do prefer insects outside. They can take on a menacing quality indoors, to me. Baby crickets not so much. More the eight-legged arachnids. They are especially menacing. Why do they like baths so much? Admittedly, the white porcelain highlights their long, black legs to perfection but I become highly anxious on espying one of them inside.

Freud says an irrational fear of something as innocent as spiders (innocent!) is a projection of a fear of something much more terrible.

One of his favourite suggestions was that, as a child, the fraidy-cat subject had walked in on parents having sex. I’m not going to devote time scrolling through childhood memories on that subject. Scientists have said the fear is of an evolutionary origin from our ancestors.

As I crunch on my cricket toast, the garden remains chockabloc with cicadas. The birds have taken to their nests for an afternoon nap in the shade, the mozzies have found a dot of unpoisoned skin on my foot and bitten it to death. A granddaddy spider has poked its head up from what I thought was an empty, dusty, old web almost like it knows I’m maligning its species. This place ain’t big enough for both of us, so it will have to leave. What use is it anyway? Those little, annoying, summer flies are still hanging around, and the whiney things draining my foot of blood.

What a summer’s day. There’s even a lawnmower purring in the background and the tar on the footpath is melting. Like schooldays, PN childhood. Paradise. (DEIRDRE THURSTON) F

OCCUPY GARNET ROAD GROUP SUPPORTER’S MEETING Last month Martin Leach and I attended the Occupy Garnet Road Supporters Group meeting at the St Columba Church in Grey Lynn.

About 40 to 50 people were present. Lisa Prager, Penny Bright and Gael Baldock along with tree supporter, Wendy Gray, put their gripes with Auckland Transport to the meeting.

The protagonists railed against lack of consultation, a ‘corporate takeover’ of Auckland, the money being spent on cycleways ($200m 2015-2018, with another $635m proposed for 2018-2028).

One of their main arguments was that businesses adjacent to cycle lanes are losing car parks near their businesses, forcing locals to go to malls. Lisa Prager has a mantra: no parking, no stopping, no shopping.

Auckland Transport accepts that the makeover for the West Lynn shopping area was flawed, and they will remediate the problems - at extra cost to ratepayers of course!

New reference groups comprising stakeholders have been set up.

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

As a home owner in Richmond Road, I saw no AT flyer explaining the reference groups, and so was excluded when I would have liked to have been part of this group.

West Lynn is a mess, not just because of cycleways but the footpaths, the crossings, the drains which don’t drain, are poorly planned and badly executed.

I have no doubt AT will fix this mess. I sincerely hope it has taught them more about real consultation. They should not be imposing from above, telling locals what they need, what they will have, rather than asking locals what they want.

No amount of consultation will necessarily get everyone on the same page, but it will be an important step along the way. Outlyers, who shout from the rooftops but have little local support, will be forced to back off. In the end the majority will reach a consensus, and AT’s job will be that much easier. The question of how much money should be spent on cycleways, and where they should be built is a huge issue.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

The Herne Bay Petanque Club Open Day I helped to found the Herne Bay Petanque Club in Salisbury Reserve in 1995, and was its first secretary. Doesn’t time fly - it is now over 20 years old. Chris Priestley, the foundation President, is still a member.

Petanque is a game for all ages. Every Thursday morning a seniors group play at Herne Bay. Last week when I visited there were 29 playing. The oldest present was 89, while several were in their 70s.

However, petanque can be an important ingredient of a great social occasion. Some players insist their pointing and shooting improves with a glass of wine in their other hand.

Membership is very reasonable at $55 a year and, for those who wish to become a bit more competitive, there are interclub competitions with the other 12 Auckland clubs.

Local man Norman Stanhope is the president, and the club boasts several top Auckland and, in fact, New Zealand players. Ian Baker and Alan Fletcher are both very fine players. Alan is club captain, and conducts coaching sessions on Tuesday evenings.

Seniors, or those with time to spare, play on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, while Friday evenings are for all comers.

The piste, as the playing surface is known, is well laid out, with shade trees growing well. The complex is council owned, and the club has a peppercorn lease arrangement with the council.

Petanque is genuinely a game for all ages and all sexes. There are no male-female divides.

An open day will be held on Friday 23 March from 5pm where new, or prospective new, members will be welcomed.

Come to the open day and try petanque for yourself. Come down on a Tuesday or Thursday if you have time, and throw a few boules for $3 - 9.30am until 12 noon.

There will be explanations about how to play the game, balls - known as boules - can be borrowed, and a sausage sizzle will be put on. Locals are encouraged to bring along a picnic for the whole family and have a fun time.

Petanque is not an expensive game, and the club will loan boules until you buy your own set. It is also not a game that needs to take all day. You can fit an hour or so around your other busy schedules. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN

The $635m figure loomed large on a whiteboard in the face of all at last night’s meeting.

Finally, AT lists health and environmental benefits of between $468m and $760m from the $635m spend.

What has to be remembered is that that figure is regionwide, and projected to be spent over 10 years. It is also only a proposal, and time will tell if AT’s born again attitude to genuine consultation will hold up during the time the proposal is put out for public consultation. Let’s hope new Auckland Transport CEO Shane Ellison is on to it. The $635m is for another 150km of cycleways.

They agree with those of us who say ask us first, saying there must be “more comprehensive external consultation.”

AT says that the benefits of the $635m spend will be $1.9 to $4.6 for every dollar invested and would “deliver 150km of new cycleways linking to key activity centres and maximising access to public transport.”

It went on, “We would see an increase in modal share of trips to work for cycling from 1% to 4% across the Auckland Region."

And now a personal confession. I have been trialling e-bikes and may buy one soon.

They do what protagonists told me - they 'flatten' Auckland and they allow cyclists to use the motor as much or as little as they need. It is easy to see where lots of money has been well spent - lovely cycleways, crossings, lights, traffic warnings.

So, the fitter you become, the less you will need the peddle assisted motor, or the hand throttle.

By 2026 AT tells us “4500 people a day will cycle to the city centre, equivalent to four lanes of traffic on the arterial road networks during peak periods.”

But here’s the rub. I loved the dedicated cycle lanes, but was terrified on the major city streets, competing with cars, trucks and buses. One guy I know calls cyclists “speed bumps”. There is still a lot of education to do, but I also support better cycleway linkages, so I could avoid main roads.

Those who want clarification or who want to question those figures should attend consultation sessions and make their views known. I will be one of those people.

$635 million - I’m not sure, but we can’t leave the job half done. Let’s embrace it and PN avoid being called “dinosaurs, living in the past.” (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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LOCAL NEWS REST IN LOVING PEACE DEIRDRE ROELANTS My darling Deirdre Roelants passed away in Auckland Hospital at 10.10pm on Thursday 4 February, after suffering a number of health issues.

My friend had lived in Franklin Road for 25 years. Deirdre achieved a lot in her eight decades - she was a librarian for Canterbury Museum, she also worked for the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. She was an admin manager for Auckland Visitors Bureau. She published an annual guide to bargain shopping along with helping me by writing local stories for Ponsonby News.

She was a long-term contributor in Ponsonby News and a bit of a mum to me. On the cover of our October 2014 issue, making our 25th anniversary, Deirdre appeared in the front row as she should be. Wearing her red and white Harry Potter scarf, very few of us knew Deirdre's secret. She had just turned 80 when this photo was taken by Michael McClintock! She never looked or acted her age. Deirdre wanted to be forever young.

Those tearful conversations we shared when her computer was kaput. I would step in and buy her a new one, without hesitation. We had Martin's hire-purchase scheme - Deirdre would write an article, without payment from me. I simply deducted a sum each month that worked for her and I kept getting great copy for Ponsonby News.

Her great friend and colleague Catherine Saunders and Barbara Harvey spoke beautifully about Deirdre. Many others talked about her long life, which included the thought-provoking documentary which tracked her severely disabled son Miles Roelants from his 21st birthday through a year that culminates in him meeting his hero, actor Michael J Fox, in Los Angeles.

Her son Miles was born with spina bifida and his own interviews with his parents and siblings candidly confront the challenges faced by families with a disabled child.

Thank you to everyone involved in the send off and to Helen Kendrick for the photo. We also wish to acknowledge many people who gave generously to make her wake special, especially Soho Wine Co with their wonderful contribution, and Tart Bakery for all the lovely vegan sausage rolls, the delicious sandwiches and fruit cake.

I met so many new people who all had funny stories to tell about our wonderful and dearly departed friend. Deirdre was very proud of her surviving daughter Helene and her grandson Nico.

We will all miss darling Deirdre - she wanted to do the history of Ponsonby Road as her PN final work in our pages, but sadly it wasn’t to be. (MARTIN LEACH) F R.I.P Deirdre, 25 April 1934 - 4 February 2018.

photography: Helen Kendrick

She wrote about the history of local streets, landmark buildings and other people-related stories. Everall Deans who works for the Ponsonby Business Association produced a video, “Memories of Auckland Past” featuring Deirdre, which screened at last year’s Auckland Heritage Festival.

At her home on Franklin Road many of Deirdre Roelants' friends, family - movers and shakers - gathered on a Sunday last month for her final send off. It was a perfect afternoon - with loads of laughs and a few tears.

photography: Martin Leach

photography: Martin Leach

Friends & family gather for Deirdre Roelants' send off

Deirdre Roelants with her beautiful dog Misty

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

Sir Bob Harvey with Deirdre Roelants at her 80th birthday PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS RUSSELL MCVEAGH SUPPORTS LGBTII INCLUSION The leading law firm has announced it has signed on as a sponsor of the NZ Falcons RFC, a gay and inclusive rugby club which aims to enable players to come together to participate and enjoy rugby in an open and supportive environment.

Russell McVeagh HR Director Lesley Elvidge says the firm has been supporting the team since 2017 with a sponsorship agreement signed at the end of last year to formalise the firm's ongoing support.

"We are proud of our relationship with the NZ Falcons, who champion a positive message and approach in the community, and align with our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"We view this partnership not only an important demonstration that we embrace diversity and inclusion at Russell McVeagh, but also to show we are creating and embedding a welcoming working environment into our own firm's culture," she says.

NZ Falcons President Ben Payne says, “We’re delighted Russell McVeagh has joined the family of organisations supporting the NZ Falcons. The team is an important part of making sure rugby is inclusive and getting rid of homophobia in New Zealand sporting culture - and we are looking forward to working with Russell McVeagh to help deliver on that mission.”

Russell McVeagh Partner Cameron Law adds that it's a privilege to support the NZ Falcons.

"We hope that, in doing so, we also demonstrate our support for our own LGBTII team members. When I was starting out as a young lawyer it wasn't always easy to be open about being gay, and I hope the firm's commitment to the Rainbow Tick Programme and our support of the Falcons makes it clear to all of our team that they should feel free to bring their full selves to work, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity," he says.

In the past year the firm has launched a Diversity and Inclusion Working Group to give staff a voice and an Inspirational Speakers programme which celebrates diversity of thought. A highlight of the Inspirational Speakers programme last year was a series of events held for law students throughout New Zealand underlining the importance of authentic leadership and presented by Dr Harold Hillman, a previously closeted gay man and former officer in the US military at a time when it was illegal to be openly homosexual.

Russell McVeagh is a proud partner of Diversity Works and the Rainbow Tick programme which the firm received, in 2016, an external audit and quality improvement programme designed to make an organisation a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for PN people of diverse gender identity and sexual orientation. F

ANAH JORDAN Everything I touch turns to SOLD Today's real estate market is full of opportunities.

Call me to explore yours. anahjrealestate

anahjrealestate

M 022 127 9080 | B 09 376 3039 E a.jordan@barfoot.co.nz barfoot.co.nz/a.jordan The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

184 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby

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EUROPEAN INFLUENCES STUDIO ITALIA FLEXFORM NEW SHOWROOM Founded in Italy in 1959, Flexform is one of the pioneers of modern Italian design. Already a familiar name in the local design scene, a newly renovated Flexform space has just been unveiled.

Occupying a 250 square metre space with a fully glazed frontage at 25 Nugent Street, Grafton, the showroom is presented by luxury furniture retailer Studio Italia.

An in-house design team from Flexform Italy designed the space to reflect the brand’s ethos of discreet and enduring elegance. This ethos translates into an earthy and neutral material palette featuring travertine wall panels, dark timber slatted ceilings and bespoke metal screens that speak of understated and approachable luxury.

“Flexform’s current campaign slogan is ‘Home at Last’ and as such we want this showroom to make you feel at home,” said Valeria Carbonaro-Laws, director of Studio Italia.

The collections displayed on the showroom include iconic pieces by Italian furniture maestro Antonio Citterio, such as the Groundpiece, the Cestone and the Adda sofas.

proportions that offer a comfortable depth and generous cushioning hovering just over the floor. The Cestone sofa features arm and back panels in woven leather or suede. A sophisticated checkerboard that creates a prestigious piece when placed in the centre of a room. The Adda sofa is one of the latest editions, and was showcased at Salone Del Mobile 2017. It features soft cushions that slide over the metal structure, original lengthwise stitching produces a gentle hollow on the surface which accentuates the natural folds created by the act of sitting.

There is a separate space dedicated to Flexform Mood - the Mood collection takes its inspiration from the beautiful furnishings produced in Europe during the last century, reinterpreted to update the image of sofas, armchairs, tables, beds and lamps. The wide range makes Mood an ideal choice for the residential and contract markets, hotels and lounges. Mood products are found today in elegant public and private spaces all over the world, from a penthouse in Singapore to the halls of hotels in Hamburg or Paris.

Launched in 2001 (and the brand’s bestseller since), the Groundpiece sofa redefined the notion of comfort with its revolutionary STUDIO ITALIA FLEXFORM, 25 Nugent Street, T: 09 523 2105, www.studioitalia.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

25 Nugent St, Grafton, Akl l phone +64 9 523 2105 info@studioitalia.co.nz www.studioitalia.co.nz

EUROPEAN INFLUENCES WALLPAPER - EUROPEN ORIGINS SIX CENTURIES ON Wallpapers were used in Europe as early as the 13th Century and were painted with images of popular religious icons and displayed within the homes of the devout and the poor.

In the 14th and 15th Centuries, papers were hand block-printed, but only remained popular with the working class.

By the 16th Century, wallcoverings were adopted by the middle class, who had a taste for more expensive covering which depicted imagery taken from tapestries hung in the homes the aristocracy. Found on the beams of the Lodge of Christ College, Cambridge, UK was the earliest known fragment of European wallpaper. Dating from 1509, the Italian inspired woodcut pomegranate design was printed on the back of an official announcement issued by Henry VIII. Today, wallpapering is a decorating technique very much used in and by all walks of life to add colour, texture, personality, style and interest to a space. Paper Room at Artisan Collective carries the largest range of wallpapers available in New Zealand, with designers from across the world choosing state-of-the-art and traditional techniques to manufacture their wallpaper collections.

No style has been unturned: florals, stripes, trompe l'oiel, damask, toile, geo-metrics to retro traditional and everything in between can be found in the new home for PN Paper Room. F ARTISAN COLLECTIVE, 31a Normanby Road, Mt Eden. Or shop for wallpaper from the comfort of your home at www.paperroom.co.nz

Designed by Barnaby Gates - Deer Damask in duck egg blue

PA PER ROOM H AS MOV ED HOUSE!

Our wallpaper showroom is now at Artisan 31a Normanby Road, Mt Eden, Auckland Or shop online www.paperroom.co.nz

Heraldy by MINDTHEGAP. Wallpaper designed and made in Romania. Printed on a non-woven base with eco-friendly inks

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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EUROPEAN INFLUENCES yo ur E

HAV

@ MELUKA

AUCKLAND’S FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS We have some big decisions to make that will affect Auckland, and we need your help to make them. From transport to the environment and the priorities in your local area, now is the time to have your say.

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It’s easy to find out more and give your feedback online, or attend a local event.

HAVE YOUR SAY EVENTS: JOIN A CONVERSATION WITH ELECTED MEMBERS Thursday 22 March, 3-5pm, Waitemata Local Board Office, 52 Swanson St, Auckland Central.

Have your say on Auckland’s future.

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akhaveyoursay.nz

PLEASE LIKE US! www.facebook.com/ponsonbynews

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1. BUNKboy King Single $3650 + Step $170; 2. DRAWERrobe $1655; 3. CHESTYboy 2 Bay 5 High $2400 www.meluka.co.nz

Here’s the low-down!

LIMITED TIME SEE WEBSITE FOR DE TAI L S

meluka.co.nz Furniture. Simply.

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DESI GNED AND MADE IN N E W Z E AL AN D 0800 M ELUKA • I NFO @ M E LU K A.C O.N Z

TVboy 3 Bay 2 H ig h $ 18 32

15%

FF TV and Media Cabinets

$1 5 5 7

Accessories not included

TH R E E KIN G S 9 8 3 M T E DE N R O AD N O RTH SH O R E 13A L IN K DR IV E BOTAN Y D O W N S 501 TI RAKAU DRIVE TAUR AN G A 4/6 8 3 C AM E R O N R O AD

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

The ever-changing world of wine With a new vintage every year, the world of wine continues to bring us new stories.

The vintages are only one aspect of the ever-changing world of wine. The other comes from innovation and challenge to the status quo. It’s always been there, though of late diversity and a questioning of the traditions around wine give us an exciting, dynamic time in the industry.

This also leads to plenty of questions and, as with anything new, a lot of misunderstanding.

This month at Glengarry, we’ve gathered together the most common questions asked in store and put together a Wineletter that provides a guide to these. We’d have needed a small novel to detail everything thoroughly, so have summarised to provide a guide. Here then, are some of the areas covered and for more, see in store or online.

Organic wines are made from grapes cultivated without the use of synthetic fungicides, herbicides or fertilisers. Essentially, it's all about nature without adding anything artificial.

Organic wines are regulated through legislation that varies around the world and leads to different labelling requirements including ‘Organically Grown’, ‘Made from Organic Grapes’ and ‘Organic Wine’. Whatever the labelling, if there is a reference to organic on the label then the grapes have been grown organically, in much the same way that food products are.

Biodynamic winemaking is a far more holistic approach. Biodynamic viticulture relates back to the Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, taking the view of vineyards as a living organism, that the earth is a living organism, and to make all in balance it is important to ensure that vinicultural practises are timed to coincide with the rhythms of the earth and that preparations are also made in tune with these cycles. An icon and quality benchmark for biodynamic winemaking in New Zealand is Millton vineyards in Gisborne.

Natural winemaking is the most challenging to define as it’s more of a movement based around the approach of nothing added and nothing taken. You could be forgiven for thinking that the natural wine movement was a new modern thing and, looking at the bars adopting it, a hipster take on winemaking. Rather it is a movement that started in Beaujolais, France in the 1960s - born from a desire to use less sulphur, less oak, less extraction and make wine like their grandparents used to. The opposite direction, if you like, to where wines were heading at the time. Whilst defining what natural wine is all about is not something anyone seems to have a clear handle on. Talk to anyone deep in this movement and you’d quickly have the feeling they don’t want to be defined.

Natural winemaking is essentially a philosophy of making the wine naturally. Now, at that, you may stop and ask, is not all wine natural? In a way, yes. Wine is, after all, made from a natural product, grapes. It’s such things as: the addition of sulphur as a preservative; pressing the grapes to extract lots of colour and tannins from the skins; using new oak with varying toasts; and the list could go on, all parts of winemaking that affect the final wine's taste that natural winemakers tend to avoid. The simplest way of describing natural wine - pick the grapes, put them in something inert and let mother nature make the wine. The most extreme do then believe if something goes wrong with the fermentation, then that’s what mother nature gave.

Vegan. Since wine is made from grapes, isn't it all vegan? The reason that all wines are not vegan or even vegetarian-friendly is because of how the wine is clarified and a process called 'fining'. Naturally, young wines contain proteins, tartrates, tannins

and phenolics. These are in no way harmful. Most wines will eventually self-fine. However, to get the wine looking clear and bright faster, traditionally winemakers used fining agents. The most commonly used fining agents were casein (a milk protein), albumin (egg white), gelatine (animal protein) and isinglass (fish bladder protein).

It’s worth noting that the label is not going to be of much help here. You see, labelling laws for wine are not the same as those for food (there’s another whole discussion). So what fining has been used or in fact, what additives (in countries where that’s allowed), won’t be disclosed on the label. So, finding a useful guide, like the one we have on our website is essential.

Low or no sulphur That nasty issue of ingredient labelling comes in here. In New Zealand, we do require the presence of SO2 to be noted on the label. It’s a myth that international wines from places that don’t require this to be labelled don’t have SO2 in them, they do (read on) and should be labelled on arrival into New Zealand. Sulphur is found in two stages in the winemaking process. It does occur naturally from the grapes through the fermentation process, hence why natural wines do require an amount of sulphur; all wines have it. The second place you find sulphur is as an additive, a preservative. Used to keep out the air and avoid oxidation (see orange wine, where oxidation is fine). The amount used varies from winery to winery and there, in fact, lies the key; those that use it as required for the wine, and do everything possible to reduce sulphur (Drappier a prime example, where it’s very low), and those that make wine in a more formulaic way.

Orange wines Orange wine. We are not talking bright orange wine here, rather wine that has been made in contact with its skins. The classic wines of the world made this way include the wines of Jura, where fermentation and extended maceration of the wine on skins make the wines unique character. So, what exactly does it mean? Well, usually with white wine making, the juice is pressed from the berry and straight away the skin is discarded. Not so with red, as the colour and tannin is in the skin. White wines though can be made in the same way as red wine, keeping the juice in contact with the skins and this is how orange wines are made. The resulting wines take on a deep hue, have a phenolic grip to them and tannins from the skin. There are many key characters to explore in this fascinating category of wines; many of the differences come from the amount of time the wine is on the skins, then there’s the grape variety and all the other usual aspects. It is important to know these wines will be grippy and like a red wine, they usually also have an oxidative character - think sherry and a dry austere nature. These are wines that are great with food. (LIZ WHEADON) F PN www.glengarry.co.nz

T H E N E W T R A D I T I O N A L O U T

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ORGANIC BIODYNAMIC NO ADDED SULPHUR VEGAN FRIENDLY ORANGE WINE PÉT NAT

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Loveblock Marlborough Pinot Gris 2014 Q u a r t z R e e f M e t h o d e Tr a d i t i o n e l l e B r u t N V Seresin Marlborough OSIP Pinot Noir 2016 Akarua Central Otago Pinot Gris 2016 Millton Gisborne Libiamo Gewürztraminer 2016 F r a m i n g h a m M a rl b o ro ug h F - S e r i e s P é t N a t R o s é 2 0 1 7

$19.99 $28.99 $27.99 $24.99 $42.99 $26.99

*PR I C ES VA L I D U N T I L 2 6/0 3/2 018 O R W H I L E STO C KS L AST.

FINE WINE DELIVERED SINCE 1945

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0800 733 505

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S A L E S @ G L E N G A R R Y. C O . N Z

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EUROPEAN INFLUENCES DIDA’S: YOUR LOCAL RECIPE OF THE MONTH Broccoli Salad with a Fresh Chilli and Herb Mayonnaise Salad 2 large broccoli heads, cut into florets ½ cup sliced almonds 1 tablespoon Canola oil 1 large red onion, halved and thinly sliced 4 slices free-range streaky bacon

NO UGLY LAUNCHES NEW HEALTH DRINKS Five years ago, No Ugly founders Jo and Aaron Taylor woke up.

Everything they were doing was lopsided. And in today’s fast-paced world it’s easy to get that way. With an enthusiastic lust for life, it was too easy to over indulge. And we all know that over indulgence hinders performance, affects mood and limits our ability to manage stress.

So they changed.

That change wasn’t extreme, more like better awareness of what makes a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Especially because they have four very active kids, two big jobs and a swag of friends teasing them with temptation on a daily basis.

Chilli Mayonnaise Dressing 1 long red chilli, finely diced 1 small bunch of herbs, finely chopped (such as chives, oregano and fennel - use the fennel fronds only, not the stalks) 4 tablespoons mayonnaise 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon milk 1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard Method Cook the broccoli in boiling water for approximately three minutes until soft. In a fry pan, cook the sliced almonds in the Canola oil on high heat until golden brown. In a separate pan, cook the bacon until crispy, then finely chop. Once cooled, combine all ingredients together.

To make the mayonnaise, combine all ingredients until mixed well.

Exercise became habitual and so, too, did good nutrition. The lightbulb moment was when they felt all wellness brands were boring and didn’t reflect who they wanted to be.

To assemble the salad, place the broccoli and almond mix on a plate, then drizzle the chilli mayonnaise over the top. Served chilled.

So they invented No Ugly. A brand with a higher purpose, a spunky attitude and a clear functional benefit - to help people get back to gorgeous in no time.

DIDA’S, 55 Jervois Road, T: 09 361 6157, www.didas.co.nz

We like it. We hope you like it too. F PN www.nougly.co.nz

WE’LL BE POURING OPUS ONE FROM CORAVIN AT DIDA’S DURING MARCH We now have a Coravin device at Dida’s.

Designed to pour from the bottle without removing the cork, this keeps the wine perfectly fresh for months. During March, come and drink the $790 Opus One Cabernet by the glass!

WINE LOUNGE O P E N E V E R Y D AY | M O N D AY- S U N D AY: 1 2 P M – L AT E 54 JERVOIS RD PONSONBY | CALL US ON 09 376 2813

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EUROPEAN INFLUENCES DESIGN55 IS NOW 10 YEARS OLD Design55 was established in 2008 by Auckland art dealer Gary Langsford and TV Producer Vicki Vuleta on the ground floor of a converted warehouse at 55 Upper Queen Street, Auckland.

Design55 specialises in unique and limited-edition items as well as select vintage pieces. A number of important international designers were approached to bring together an eclectic, curated collection. Vicki and Gary travel to Europe often to personally source unique items of furniture and decorative objects.

Designers represented include Fornasetti from Milan, Campana Brothers from Sao Paulo, Yves Klein from Paris, Cenedese from Murano, Fish Design, Gufram and Edra from Italy. They also work with Paul and Fran Dibble who produce a studio range of bronze furniture exclusively for design55.

Vicki offers a complete interior design service for both residential and commercial spaces, both large and small. Design55 is also able to offer an art consultancy service through gallery director Gary Langsford and clients of design55 have privileged access to previews of gallery exhibitions and visits to artists studios.

Design55 has just celebrated 10 years in business, and today offers one of the largest selections of Fornasetti furniture in the world. They have an established relationship with the brand and in consultation with Barnaba Fornasetti are able to offer a range of unique pieces made specially for design55. F PN Open Wednesday to Friday 11am - 5pm, Saturday 11am - 4pm.

DESIGN55, 55 Upper Queen Street, T: 09 308 9455, E: info@design55.co.nz, www.design55.co.nz Facebook: Design55Ltd; Instagram: design55nz

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EUROPEAN INFLUENCES DANISH DESIGN AT ITS BEST

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1. Boston Stool by Danerka. 75 years a family business, specialising in laminated wooden furniture.

5. Stingray by Fredericia. Inspired by nature, designed

by Thomas Pederson - nothing compares!

2. Lowlight Table by DK3. True aesthetics; uniquely designed furniture pieces.

6. Cutter Range by Skagerak. Leading Danish brand of solid wooden furniture.

3. Flat Pendant by Light Point. Designed by Ronni Gol; spectacular lighting creations.

7. Georg Console Table by Skagerak. Exquisite oak, exceptional range.

4. Pato Collection by Fredericia. Danish crafted quality, ultimate comfort.

8. TR5 Pendant by Tom Rossau. Stunning, sculptural Scandinavian lighting.

DESIGN DENMARK, 12 Maidstone Street, T: 09 361 3333, www.designdenmark.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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EUROPEAN INFLUENCES WHY WALK THE CAMINO IN 2018?

For more than 1000 years, pilgrims have walked the Camino seeking penance, enlightenment and adventure, but you don’t have to be religious to follow in their footsteps - just a keen walker!

The Camino is Europe’s great historical and cultural trail. Walking this remarkable route is an ancient tradition and the world's greatest spiritual adventure. It offers a unique combination of history, scenery, food, wine, camaraderie and hospitality, and there are many ways to complete it! The walk is open to people of all ages, and you’ll meet people from around the world.

The Portuguese Coastal Camino is a stunning walk from Porto to Santiago, rewarding you with amazing coastal views, untouched natural beauty and divine seafood.

Over the years, different Camino routes have emerged - all leading to Santiago.

RAW Travel are Camino experts. They can help you with expert advice and resources to plan your trip. Their dedicated Camino team has first-hand experience of the routes, so they can give you great insight into the daily realities. And they will take care of everything: accommodation, luggage transfers, even flights and insurance. F PN

The Camino Francés (The French Way) is Spain’s epic pilgrimage trail and offers timeless villages, vibrant cities, medieval towns and some of the best cathedrals in Europe.

The Le Puy Camino is a rewarding, quieter walk through - the most in rural France - picturesque fairy-tale villages, medieval abbeys, vineyards and famous places.

Not forgetting the Camino de Finisterre - a lovely extension to the end of the world!

RAW TRAVEL, T: +61 3 5976 3763, E: yourcamino@rawtravel.com www.rawtravel.com

Camino de Santiago

INFORMATION NIGHT Join the experienced team from RAW Travel for a FREE information night about the ancient trails of the Camino de Santiago.

Hear from our destination experts and be inspired by video footage and images direct from the trails. Find out why so many Australians and New Zealanders are choosing RAW Travel to assist with their travel plans.

Light refreshments provided.

Places are limited. Book your seat today at www.rawtravel.com/talks

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

Time: 6pm Date: Friday, 16 March 2018 Venue: St Columba Centre 40 Vermont St Ponsonby

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EUROPEAN INFLUENCES BEAUTIFUL PIECES @ TESSUTI The Vase d'Avril is one of Tsé & Tsé's symbolic creations. It has a metallic structure with 21 interlocking glass tubes which can be articulated in numerous ways. Since 1991, Catherine Lévy and Sigolène Prébois have been designing objects they have then manufactured and distributed all over the world, under the name Tsé & Tsé Associées.

The Nº411 Lampe Gras Floor Lamp is a simple, yet clever design that adds character and elegance to the room it is in. Astounding in its simple, robust yet ergonomic design.

Miller et Bertaux Perfume was established in 1985 in Paris. Their perfume line is unique by design of package and of fragrant compositions; poetic and refined.

Missoni Orvault Cushion Missoni Home channels the same colourful, unmistakably Italian glamour as the mother label. The family run fashion house is passionate about luxury homeware boasting the signature Missoni chevrons and stripes.

TESSUTI, 224 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 4802, www.tessuti.co.nz

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HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY

A little European flavour New Zealand has some incredible skincare brands, but this issue I’d like to celebrate some beauty from further afield.

The plethora of international brands coming from the likes of France, Italy and Greece extend way beyond the big names, and there are some absolute gems in there that are available much closer to home.

My obsession with French beauty may have started with a red lipstick, but it's French skincare that really turned my head and reeled me in.

Packing for Paris means leaving room in your suitcase for one heck of a lot of beauty-related purchases - after all, the city’s legendary pharmacies and perfumeries are impossible to resist.

And it’s not just the products - the philosophy that goes alongside their most famous brands is equally as alluring. French women are very much concerned about looking after their skin and their body in the long term, as opposed to the mainly US and UK-based beauty approach that looks for results, now. This attitude permeates into the New Zealand-Australian psyche a lot these days as well - women expect products to work over night, and if they don’t get the results they desire straight away, they opt for harsh chemicals and exfoliants that may provide the wow factor in the short term, but will irreparably damage their skin over time.

Which brings me to Eau Thermale Avène, a legendary French brand that is available in New Zealand, and among the most gentle and calming skincare out there. A brand centred on the use of thermal spring water and its soothing properties, all Avène products are created to heal and soothe even the most sensitive skin types. Even children's skin.

One of the most recommended skincare brands by French dermatologists, its most famous offering is its Thermal Spring Water spray. A naturally soothing source for sensitive skin since 1743, Avène’s Thermal Spring Water's composition is clinically shown by over 150 studies to calm, soothe and soften the skin. Ideal for red, sensitive or irritated skin and perfect for post-workout, travel or to freshen up makeup, it is incredibly reasonably priced and a must in every bathroom. Their Rich Compensating Cream (for very dry skin) and Skin Recovery Cream (for intolerant skin) are their other top sellers.

Sarah Jackson is one of the co-founders of Inesstore.com, a website offering some of French pharmacy’s greatest hits that were previously unavailable in New Zealand. Their edit is made up of products that have been widely used in Europe for years - with good reason. Their best sellers include the incredible Bioderma Sensibio H20 micellar water (often awarded the title of world’s best in its category), Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentraté, NUXE Huile Prodigieuse and Leonor Greyl Huile De Leonor Greyl. When I ask her why people love them so much, she says: “French pharmacy hair and skin products have achieved their worldwide cult status due to their highly effective formulas that are dermatologically led and developed with

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

specific concerns in mind. They also have fewer fragrances and colourants, allowing them to effectively treat the most sensitive skin types.” She adds that quite simply, “our hero products are functional and utilitarian. They create the foundation of a good skincare and haircare routine."

Available from Mecca Cosmetica, Bastide is a French lifestyle brand that celebrates the artisans and terroir of Aix-en-Provence, and comes with a typically Gallic, luxurious appearance and feel. Created by Shirin and Frederic Fekkai (who acquired the 25-yearold brand based in Frederic’s hometown), Bastide is all about 'slow' beauty and a locavore philosophy: harvesting ingredients from the local region to create their products.

It’s also paraben and sulfate free, which gets a big tick from me. I love their body and hand creams, and their candles come highly recommended too.

One of my favourite haircare brands, Davines is quirky, cool and still owned by the same family in Parma, Italy that founded it in 1983. For Davines, luxury and beauty go hand in hand - but not at any cost, says the environmentally conscious brand.

Davines’ laboratories create optimal formulas without sulfates or parabens, and many of their active ingredients are grown in Italy so as to preserve botanical species at risk of extinction and to protect biological diversity. To strengthen this ongoing commitment to sustainability, Davines even collaborate with the Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity, and all of their carbon dioxide emissions generated by packaging production are offset through contributions towards the creation and protection of forests in Madagascar. How cool is that? OI Shampoo is their most ultra-luxe shampoo, and it’s a joy to use. With a rich, velvety texture enhanced with rose oil, it gives all hair types uncompromised body and shine (it has a conditioning counterpart that is equally as luxurious).

I’ve been using their Alchemic Shampoo of late, a colour-enhancing, biodegradable and natural formula with a high concentration of pure pigments that is a joy to use and super effective.

Last up, I’d love to give a little shout out to the beautiful Korres brand from Greece, which also comes to our shores courtesy of Mecca Cosmetica. The brand was founded in 1996 in Athens by George and Lena Korres, and utilises the knowledge gained from their work in the homeopathic field. Korres creates musthave natural skin care, perfume and bath and body products and their range of best sellers includes everything from essential basics to global skin care innovations. Their Santorini Vine Shower Gel is great intro to the brand fresh, fruity and smelling like a Greek summer.

PN (HELENE RAVLICH) F

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Modern Japanese Main Beach Takapuna Beach Bookings essential Ph 09 390 7188 www.tokyobay.co.nz

5 Fort Lane, CBD T: 09 379 9702 cassiarestaurant.co.nz

Japanese Izakaya Dining Bar Ponsonby Central No bookings required Ph 09 376 8016 www.tokyoclub.co.nz

She can’t even turn around.

Sign the petition to ban farrowing crates.

safe.org.nz

SIDART, Level 1, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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EUROPEAN INFLUENCES @ SABATO Sabato celebrates 25 years in business with 25% off the Julie Le Clerc range in-store and online from 1 - 14 March.

Sabato owners Jacqui and Phil Dixon have enjoyed a long collaboration with the talented food writer and cook Julie Le Clerc. Julie has been curious about all things culinary for as long as she can remember. As a former cafe owner and chef, Julie enjoys creating accessible, straightforward but stylish recipes which encourage home cooks to put together deliciously satisfying dishes from scratch.

When Julie sold her cafe many years ago, the Sabato philosophy of small batch, quality production fitted her desire to have her very popular, signature preserves and chutneys available to her established following. One of Julie’s favourite recipes below uses Julie Le Clerc spicy harissa and preserved lemons.

Lemon & Harissa Chicken with Fregola Serves 6 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVO) 2 medium onions, chopped 600g Mahy Farms skinless boneless chicken thighs, each cut in half Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp JLC spicy harissa, plus extra to serve ½ cup Sabato tomato passata ~ organic 2 cups Sabato chicken stock 1 tbsp honey 1 tbsp Romulo or Capirete sherry vinegar 1 tbsp tomato paste 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped 1 cup Losada olives, drained ½ jar JLC preserved lemon (4 wedges), flesh removed, skin rinsed and finely sliced 1 ¼ cups Quisardegna fregola sarda Handful Italian parsley leaves, to garnish Heat the EVO in a large, flameproof casserole pan with a lid. Add the onions and cook for 10 minutes over a medium heat until soft but not brown. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.

Season the chicken, add to the hot pan and cook until brown on both sides. Return onions to the pan, add in the harissa, stock, honey, vinegar, tomato paste, oregano, olives and preserved lemon. Give everything a good stir, then bring to the boil. Turn down the heat, cover pan with a lid and simmer very gently for 10 minutes.

Stir in the fregola, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fregola is al dente and the liquid mostly absorbed. Season again if necessary. Scatter with parsley to garnish and serve with extra harissa on the side if desired. © Recipe by Julie Le Clerc For more recipe ideas visit us in-store or on our website www.sabato.co.nz SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 8751

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

AMAZONIA From the beaches of Copacabana to condors soaring over the high Andes, South America is one spectacular continent, attracting more than its fair share of superlatives. Here, size does matter!

The Amazon is no exception. The world’s largest rainforest, its river is the biggest by volume and no less than 6400km long, and its species are the most diverse of any ecosystem on Earth. At last count, this veritable Garden of Eden boasted more than 30,000 plant species, 1800 fish species, more than 1300 different birds and 311 species of mammals.

To explore this unique environment, you can board a small-ship cruise or stay in an eco-lodge - there are many on offer, and I am fortunate enough to have tried and tested some of the best in Brazil, Peru and Ecuador.

Most people think of the Amazon as being in Brazil, and it largely is, with vast tracts of rainforest and numerous tributaries giving rise to the 'Meeting of the Waters' where the black water of the Rio Negro meets the brown water of the River Solimoes.

Here cruises head out of Manaus, in itself an interesting city with its magnificent opera house. The headwaters of the Ecuadorian Amazon also boast some of the greatest biodiversity on the planet, which can be explored from incredible eco-lodges deep in the forest.

My ultimate Amazonian experience is in Peru. Cruising from Iquitos you can spot colourful macaws, pink dolphins, river otters, various species of monkey, boa constrictors and more. Daily excursions with expert and passionate naturalist guides take

you out into the smaller tributaries, visiting local villages, and on walks into the forest.

Getting in amongst the forest is essential as the foliage is dense, and other than perhaps caiman, monkeys and birdlife, there is actually a surprising lack of visible wildlife. On foot along jungle trails you can observe the smaller stuff - the weird and wonderful insects that you only spot when you stand still, the plants that all play their very specific part in this highly complex eco-system, and the smaller species such as colourful tree frogs or butterflies. Night walks in particular reveal some of the best wildlife at their most active, and lying in bed listening to the sounds of the Amazon is a very special experience you will never forget!

Cruising the Amazon aboard a luxury small ship allows you to enjoy the comfort of stylish accommodation each night, while getting in amongst some of the most remote places on Earth where there most certainly isn’t an acceptable hotel around the next corner. The cruises we offer are all very environmentally friendly, being of smaller size, and take great care to avoid any impact on the regions they explore. Excellent service, and the chance to enjoy some of the finest Peruvian cuisine is a bonus!

Many who explore the Amazon are awestruck, and most return home as newly enthusiastic advocates for the protection of such a pristine and precious place. (CHRIS LYONS, WORLD JOURNEYS)

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL

LUXURY AMAZON CRUISING The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Explore the Peruvian Amazon, its dramatic scenery, indigenous cultures and extraordinary flora and fauna. A luxury cruise with Delfin offers all the comforts, an intimate ambience, gourmet cuisine and fascinating excursions with expert naturalist guides.

5 DAY CRUISE from $4,710pp (share twin) + airfares

T 09 360 7311 www.worldjourneys.co.nz /worldjourneys

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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1. Ron Craig from Ponsonby firm ChambersCraigJarvis being handed, by his wife Mary, a copy of the February issue with the McRoberts Set To Cycle Sri Lanka. Whilst on holiday recently, the couple included a visit to this the ruins of the library at Polonuwarra, SRI LANKA. It was built in the 12th Century AD by the enlightened King Parakramabahu, who ushered in the golden age of the area. Difficult names to get the tongue around but a wonderful site to explore.

2. Vinay from Auckland central, with his wife Rachana reading the Ponsonby News in our vacation to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, ABU DHABI. This is one of the biggest mosques and is simply picturesque. 3. In front of the hotel Waldorf Astoria, Palm Jumeirah DUBAI.

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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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PONSONBY NEWS APRIL April NEXTfeature: ISSUE

PLANNING SPECIAL EVENTS Engagements - Weddings - Honeymoons - Holidays & Getaways COPY DEADLINE: Tuesday 20 MARCH PUBLISHED: Friday 6 APRIL

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ROSS THORBY: SEA FEVER

Perhaps it should be curiosity killed the dodo - not curiosity killed the cat.

The first Europeans who discovered the alluring island of Mauritius in 1507 found an island of immense beauty with white, pristine beaches protected by its isolation 2000 miles away from Africa.

The island’s most famous resident - an early form of pigeon - had settled on the island about four million years previously. With no predators on the island, the bird had lost the ability to fly and had grown to some 50 pounds, fat, content and living in an innocent world of its own.

The dodo was apparently also pretty naive.

When Portuguese and Arab sailors first began visiting the island, the bird, so excited and curious about its new play friends, would run down to meet them on the beach. The sailors, starved of fresh meat on their long journey, could hardly believe their luck and the bird was welcomed into their midst and given a bath - in a very hot cauldron. Pretty soon the last dodo, plucked and cooked with a touch of seasoning, entered the annuls of history and popular folklore.

Perhaps it should be curiosity killed the dodo - not curiosity killed the cat.

Today the island sports a game park where none of the animals are native - although it is one of the island’s biggest drawcards and the most popular ship excursion is the 'Casela Game Park - by Quad bike'. Set about an hour north of the island’s capital, the park’s beautifully landscaped grounds house numerous lookout towers where you can gaze down at the animals in their habitats. Yes, it was pretty well a large zoo, but hey, it had quad bikes.

After a short handling lesson, we donned helmets, charged our steeds and 18 of us shot out of the containment area like drivers at La Monde Raceway. The roar of our machines surely scattering anything that might have been worth looking at. Our guide and 'protector' Jasper, appearing terrified that such a bunch of previously amiable cruisers should suddenly turn so feral. He led us along rugged roads, over fords, down hills and up dales, stopping us at various lookout points to admire the various ostrich, antelope, kudu, orix and hog contained within the areas. Jasper seemed to think, mistakenly, that I might be responsible enough to be left at the helm of our group so he could charge off down the line encouraging the others not to go off a-wandering - it was like herding kittens.

On foot now, we ventured to the Lion Park containing tigers, lions, hyenas and leopards. Next door and separated only by a meagre looking wire fence, was a herd of very nervous and skittery looking giraffes. Further-on, a petting zoo containing plenty of the more common variety of animals being petted and stroked eagerly by excited school children. Their laughter ringing through the trees and undergrowth and blending with the noise of the peacocks and ducks wandering through the gardens.

Tired and exhausted from our exertions, we returned to our own human zoo on-board ship where, that night, we eagerly devoured impala and buffalo steaks at dinner.

We departed into a colourful setting sun - our appetite for a genuine African safari thoroughly whetted. (ROSS THORBY) F PN

The rugged terrain we were traversing continually changed from hilly rock-strewn paths to gentle, wide savannas. At each stop, an annoying paparazzi-like photographer popped out of the undergrowth to snap us and then scuttle back to his bike to race us to the next 'photo-op'. I wasn't sure at this point who were the game and who were the 'hunters'.

Stand aside Adele, you’re not the only star to be 'papped'.

Our own paparazzi’s last stand was a ford across a small river.

Jasper was off down the line corralling the 'wayward' while one of my companions and I sat watching the torrent of water coursing its way over the rocky crossing below us - we could only look at each other in amazement at such a gift. It was too tempting - it was just too easy.

Be still thy beating heart.

We gunned our engines and raced down the incline, each hitting the water at the same time just as the photographer leapt out, camera in hand, to be met by a torrent of water of biblical proportions - wave after wave enveloped him as those following us continued to saturate him in the midday sun. Later, by way of apology, a number of us purchased his photos, restoring his pride and diplomatic relations.

Hopefully we covered his dry-cleaning bill.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY FACES @ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET Blitzd Smoothie Bowls Maddie Brogan is a Grey Lynn entrepreneur with a big vision and lofty ideals.

Have you always been into food?

I was brought up in cafes. My mum started Savour & Devour when I was six, then went on to start Hubcap and Foxtrot Parlour. Mum is passionate about delicious, healthy food so she has taught us a lot about good nutrition and good food. I love it too and I have always helped in the cafes.

Where did the idea of a food truck come from?

I was at the beach with some friends when a Mr Whippy van pulled up. I joked with my friends that it would be a fun life travelling around and pulling up in exotic locations. The more I thought about the more I thought, “why not?”

What’s your favourite smoothie memory?

I’ve spent a lot of time in the Cook Islands because my dad is a Cook Islander - that’s where I get my curls from. I love the smoothies there.

They cut open the coconut and papaya right in front of you - you can’t get fresher than that.

What makes a good smoothie?

A smoothie has to taste delicious, be good for you and it has to look good. We eat with our eyes.

Lots of fresh fruit is the main thing. Plus, I add a few special extras like coconut yoghurt and spirulina, to pack them full of goodness and flavour. My smoothies are gluten free, dairy free, vegan smoothies. A lot of people think that a smoothie should have milk but I think that just makes them milkshakes.

What is the difference between a smoothie and a smoothie bowl?

The smoothie bowl has a texture like sorbet, thick and soft on top of granola, with a dollop of coconut yoghurt and freshly chopped seasonal fruit topped with chia seeds and buckwheat.

The smoothie has more coconut water and no granola. It is Blitzd to make it easier to drink.

Why Grey Lynn Farmers Market?

I’ve been trying out a few locations, but I feel at home here. I live just around the corner, I went to school and played soccer at Western Springs. I know lots of locals. The sustainability and nutritional ethics of the market fit with my own values.

Who are all those people who we see with you at the market?

Family and friends. I am so lucky to have such a wide and skilled

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support network. They all want to see me succeed and I couldn’t do it without them... and they all are looking for a smoothie. F PN www.glfm.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY GROW, EAT, LOVE - PLUME’S NEW MENU A summer meal at Plume, the Vineyard Restaurant in Matakana, is up there with the most memorable of dining experiences - surrounded by gardens and vines in a swathe of green countryside.

Plume’s Summer Menu embraces the very best of Matakana’s bounty - many ingredients are sourced from Plume’s own gardens, vines and groves, and fresh from the sea.

There are light, healthy dishes fresh on the palate like the starters Kokoda (a fish ceviche with refreshing coconut, chilli, lime flavours); Goat’s Cheese Timbale with avocado salsa; Venison Tataki - Sichuan pepper crusted, briefly seared, served with pickled daikon and salad.

If people ‘eat with their eyes’ then Plume is a sensual feast. There’s spectacular presentation in the Seafood Bake: fresh fish and shellfish flambeed in brandy, served in a coconut shell with pastry crust.

Beef cheek is served as never before in generous herb, panko-coated escalopes after initial braising with a poached egg! Meltingly crispy skinned pork belly (colourful accompaniments include cranberry spinach roll and saffron baby pea); and quinoa has never tasted as good as in Quisotto, a light and incredibly flavourful take on risotto and good for the waistline too.

The new Summer Tasting Menu is the answer to a gourmet’s dilemma with five great courses and wine matches also available. You’ll need to put aside a good couple of hours for this pleasurable event matched with the delicious JOY (sparkling rose) and other silky smooth, Matakana wines from Plume’s vineyard Runner Duck Estate.

PLUME, 49 Sharp Road, Matakana, book online or call T: 09 422 7915, www.plumerestaurant.co.nz

At Plume we believe a great meal is not just about the food and wine, we believe it is a complete sensory experience.

Plume, proudly the house of Runner Duck Wines.

Book Now 49a Sharp Road, Matakana

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

w. plumerestaurant.co.nz p. 09 422 7915 e. reservations@plumerestaurant.co.nz

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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GARY STEEL: VEG FRIENDLY

The Butcher’s Son Finger-lickin’ plant-based deliciousness.

Only a few months back I was ruing in this very column the rather limited number of dedicated vegan eateries in the Ponsonby area, while commending those that do exist for their continued excellence.

Well, with the advent of The Butcher’s Son, all ruing is over!

Sandwiched between a bunch of other cafes, bars and boutique stores towards the last big lot of shops at 204 Jervois Road, it’s just what the doctor ordered: an entirely vegan cafe that plies such clever culinary magic that you’d hardly notice its lack of animal flesh.

It’s actually hard to think of anything I don’t love about The Butcher’s son. Everything from the outrageous name to the relaxing space to the attentive table service to the timely arrival of the meals helped to set a scene for an eating experience that could be enjoyed with no inhibitions, and we haven’t even gotten to the food yet.

Owned by James and Louise Logan with business partner Chris Kinnell and with top food professionals Angus McLean (head chef) and Amy Lynn (sous chef) whipping up their potions in the kitchen, it’s a cafe/ restaurant hybrid that does high-end, plant-based versions of popular traditional dishes and comfort food.

On the current menu, for instance, are variations on Kiwi favourites like burgers, Mexican (tacos and nachos), curries and Mediterranean. On my only visit thus far, both of us opted for burgers. Now, I can already anticipate the outrage about burgers that cost $22, but I can honestly say that these are like no burger that I’ve ever tasted before, and for the money you get a genuinely hand-crafted piece of edible artwork that looks so gorgeous that you’re at first loathe to cut into its fresh, branded buns.

Still not convinced? My friend Tom opted for the Beet Burger, which I can honestly say was a party in our mouths. The menu lists beetroot, mushroom and tempeh patty, pickles, ‘cheddar’, aioli and tomato jam on a house-made brioche bun, and it tasted at least as good as all those ingredients suggest. In fact, I’m drooling over my keyboard as I write.

I had been trying to convince myself to try the much-hyped, labcreated pea-protein marvel, Sunfed ‘Chicken’, and finally took the jump with their Sunfed ‘Chicken’ Burger. The menu describes it as containing the aforementioned ‘chicken’ fillets, miso slaw, baby spinach and chilli jam and it was very nice but after nearly a lifetime of vegetarianism the texture of the ‘chicken’ was just a bit much for me. KFC fans or those who miss the taste and texture of chicken will appreciate it for sure!

The burgers came with a delicious leaf salad and chunky fries cooked in fresh oil (what a difference) and Tom opted for an ‘upgrade’ to moreish kumara fries ($2).

I’m reliably informed that other dishes with the ‘wow’ factor include the spicy Taco Loco, which includes spiced crispy cauliflower, chipotle aioli and charred pineapple salsa; and the Banana Pancakes for breakfast, which feature caramelised peaches, raspberry coulis and toasted coconut ice-cream (I’m drooling again).

The Butcher’s Son is yet another sign that the plant food revolution is in full swing. It’s a 10 out of 10 and, as you might have guessed, 100% recommended! (GARY STEEL) F PN THE BUTCHER'S SON, 204 Jervois Road, T: 09 930 8610, www.thebutchersson.co.nz

Gary Steel is an Auckland-based journalist who runs online vegetarian resource www.doctorfeelgood.co.nz.

He can be contacted via beautmusic@gmail.com

58 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY LITTLE BIRD SEEKING TO GROW...

Little Bird started life in the kitchen of a split villa in Grey Lynn. Founders Megan & Jeremy had virtually no cash, but they did have Megan’s food genius, organic industry lineage and serious food health knowledge.

Plus some ‘designy-brandy’ help from Jeremy, (along with his project and team management skills from 12 years as an award-winning architect).

And a lot of determination. As the couple explain, "In eight years we’ve built Little Bird Organics into an internationally loved brand. We’ve helped establish the rise of the modern healthy food movement in New Zealand, won acclaim for our Unbakery cafes, and learnt an incredible amount whilst keeping a firm grasp on our values.

"Little Bird now operates two innovative, healthy, organic cafes in Auckland, an e-commerce website and a dedicated 600sqm manufacturing facility (and head office) where we currently produce over 20,000 units of delicious little bird product per month.

"We employ 65 wonderfully loyal and clever staff and spend every day making the best quality organic, plant-based food possible, which also happens to be free from gluten, dairy, soy and refined cane sugars.

"Little Bird’s profile now extends internationally with its reputation for high-quality, healthy food and innovation. We have 86,000 Instagram followers (+ 34,000 on Facebook). Our first cook book secured publishing deals in Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Germany. Our second book was released by Penguin Random House in September and has made the Top 10 list in New Zealand (non-fiction).

"We are excited about the opportunities ahead for the Little Bird. Our goals are to become an established and significant player in the FMCG market, both locally and in international markets. In response to significant demand we are also planning to expand our cafe offering to other locations and in doing so continue to help put truly healthy, plant-based whole food further into the mainstream. Invest in the Future of Food."

Malcolm & Melanie Rand, founders of Ecostore have become investors and are now on the board of Little Bird. F PN investinlittlebird.com

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4'5'48#6+105 6 QT DQQM QPNKPG 2QPUQPD[ 4QCF YYY XKGVPCOGUGMKVEJGP EQ P\

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY?

But wait, there’s more...

Continuing from last month’s column on New Zealand wines with an international reputation, here’s another bunch that have racked up gongs on the world stage.

The whole issue of wine awards and trophies is a bit fraught, to be honest. And unless you do a lot of research, the silver and gold stickers on a bottle of wine on the shelf can be quite misleading.

For example, some Aussie wines bear impressive gold medal stickers that state, on closer inspection, '30 years of making wine’ or similar.

In New Zealand, the benchmark wine competitions are the Royal Easter Show, the Air New Zealand Wine Awards, and the New World Wine Awards. A bottle sticker associated with one of these competitions is a fairly reliable indicator of quality.

Stoneleigh Latitude Marlborough Pinot Noir 2016 - $21 The 2013 was Awarded Gold in the 2015 International Wine & Spirits Competition UK. Bargain price for an awarded pinot noir. Smells of mixed berry compote, earthy beetroot and a smidge of floral pot pourri. Classic Burgundian style - it looks deceptively light but opens up on the palate with ripe black currant, blackberry, smoky, spicy oak and tamarillo.

Church Road McDonald Series Hawkes Bay Chardonnay 2016 - $23 Gold in the 2017 Six Nations Wine Challenge. Sulphide influence from wild yeast ferment. Aromas of ripe grapefruit and a hint of canned peach. On the palate, the funkiness recedes and it opens up with hazelnut and toasty ripe peach and a creamy mouth feel.

Lake Chalice The Raptor Marlborough Pinot Noir 2014 - $23 This vintage won Gold, International Wine Challenge 2017, and Silver AWC Vienna International Wine Challenge 2017. Very similar to the Stoneleigh pinot - predominantly smoky and earthy on the nose.

Another bang for buck pinot noir. Ripe, juicy palate of berry and savoury flavours, and a lengthy generous aftertaste. Bargain.

Jules Taylor OTC Marlborough Chardonnay 2016 - $40 The 2012 won the Mission Hill Trophy, International Wine & Spirits Competition, UK 2013. Another sulphide snifter, with further aromas of ripe grapefruit and nectarine. The palate is quite light and elegant for a chardonnay. Crisp and dry with some grapefruity and green herbal flavours, like an oak-aged sauvignon blanc.

Soljans Hawkes Bay Merlot/Cabernet/Malbec 2015 - $19 Awarded a Silver in the Decanter World Wine Awards, London 2017.

Charming Bordeaux-style blend. Aromas of fruit cake, plums and a hint of cellar dust. Ripe and fruity palate of blackberry, spice and mellow soft tannins with a lengthy finish. Bargain.

(PHIL PARKER) F PN

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

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

SERIOUS ABOUT CHOCOLATE Introducing New Zealand’s first chocolate popcorn.

Serious Popcorn Limited Edition Dark Chocolate Drizzle.

Serious Bunny is concerned about what you’re snacking on this Easter... so before feasting out on yet another egg, try our new take on an Easter chocolate treat. Serious Dark Chocolate Drizzle marries organic and fairtrade certified chocolate with our sweet and salty popcorn. Our ingredients listing couldn’t be simpler: organic popcorn, minimum 55% organic and fairtrade cocoa, organic coconut oil, hand-popped, seasoned and drizzled to foodie perfection. With no nasty chemicals and under 250 calories per bag, this is a guilt-free Easter treat for those serious about snacking. Serious Bunny says bounce along to get it soon... this strictly limited flavour won’t last long.

Serious Popcorn was founded in 2015 by Roger Holmes, a third generation corn farmer. Roger was inspired to create a sustainable snacking revolution, developing snacks that were not only good for consumers, but good for the planet too.

Serious Popcorn Dark Chocolate Drizzle 50g RRP $4.99 Available from organic retailers, Farro and selected New World supermarkets nationwide.

60 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TINA PLUNKETT: PONSONBY CENTRAL

MARCH MADNESS School is back, uni is back and the year is in full swing but that doesn’t mean the summer good times are over.

Ponsonby Central has you covered for all things kids so bring them in (once they’ve done their homework!).

You know if the little ones are happy, everyone is happy, so don’t sweat if you haven’t got a babysitter, we’ve got kids' menus at Chop Chop, Bird on a Wire and Bedford Soda & Liquor. Or head straight for family favourite eateries Crepes-a-Go-Go, Little Bread & Butter, Dante's Pizzeria, or Tokyo Club for their sushi. There’s something even the fussiest kid will enjoy.

If the kids eat all their veggies you can finish it off with an ice cream cone or sandwich from The Dairy (they might need some assistance to finish this off... oh, the things we have to do).

We also have Maaike popping up. They have just hit the runways for New York Fashion week and now they are bringing Maaike Mini to Ponsonby Central. Look out for them in the first week of March.

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1. Get your veggie intake while waiting for your burger.

2. Mini Maaike is coming to Ponsonby Central.

3. Mmmm Kapiti ice cream. Have you tried The Dairy’s homemade cookie ice cream sandwich yet?

4. Bird on a Wire’s kids' feed, either a pulled chicken slider, chips and slaw or drumstick, roast potatoes, carrots and peas.

5. Keep the kids cool...

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SOMETHING FOR THE TEENS, TWEENS, TODDLERS ..... AND YOU!

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The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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FASHION + STYLE @ DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND 2

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1. Diamond Pendant & Chain (9ct white gold) - $1650 2. Morganite & Diamond Ring (14ct rose gold) - $1950 3. Diamond Tennis Bracelet (9ct white gold, 0.50ct TDW) - $1950 (also available in yellow gold) 4. Six Stone Diamond Ring (9ct white gold) - $3900 (also available in yellow gold) DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND, 98 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, T: 09 376 9045, wwwdiamondsonrichmond.co.nz

@ MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING

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1. Beau Jours Merino Dress; 2. Elixir Kimono and Sequoia Midi Dress; 3. Ponti Military Jacket and Amira Shirt; 4. TF Stripe Jacket and Amira Shirt MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING, 4 Byron Avenue, Takapuna, T: 09 488 0406, 937 Mt Eden Road, T: 09 630 5354, www.magazineclothing.co.nz

62 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE MEET JAMES WHITE FROM CARATS James White started at Carats in 2010 after studying for three years at the Peter Minturn Goldsmith School.

He works alongside Phil and Grant, who founded Carats in 1996, and who have both been making jewellery for over 30 years.

“Handmade jewellery is an art form which is rapidly becoming extinct in today’s computer age, where a vast majority of jewellery is 3D printed,” says James.

James brings a broad range of skills from jewellery design and manufacturing to general jobs, whether it is building a cabinet, fixing a leak or helping out the old fossil Phil on basic computer skills.

When James isn’t making beautiful jewellery, he is spending time with his wife and three-month-old daughter. In his spare time you will find him on the side of a rock face or exploring the caves at Waitomo or trying out new dive spots.

“I enjoy mostly designing and making hinge and clip mechanisms, I find them technically challenging as the margin for error is very small. There is nothing more satisfying than looking at a finished piece of jewellery and proudly saying, I built that from a bar of metal," says James.

James White

All Carats jewellery is made on location in their Vulcan Lane store an enviable location in Auckland’s fashion central. Carats offers you the highest-quality jewellery backed by its lifetime guarantee. F PN

CARATS, 25 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD, T: 09 309 5145, www.caratsjewellery.co.nz

@ CARATS 2

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1. ‘Flower’ pendant - $19,970; 2. Koru wedders from $4000; 3. Multi-coloured ‘Carbonated’ bracelet set with sapphires, rubies, diamonds and an array of other beautiful gemstones from $65,000; 4. ‘Flower’ rings from $750 - $1375 CARATS, 25 Vulcan Lane, Auckland CBD, T: 09 309 5145, www.caratsjewellery.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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FASHION + STYLE @ ZEBRANO

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1. Siren 2-Way shawl - $123 2. Lemon Tree Mila Star jumper - $177 3. Lemon Tree Lucia jacket - $187 4. Siren Longline Bomber jacket - $177 5. Maaike Spectra hoody - $333 6. Maaike Stamp dress - $393

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ZEBRANO, 10 Kingdon Street, Newmarket, T: 09 523 2500, www.zebrano.co.nz

64 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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

VERMONT STREET, PONSONBY 15TH MARCH 1925

Dearest Diana, Can you believe that we’re halfway through March already. I’m in a bit of a panic as I still haven’t decided on all the garments for my winter collection! I bet that you’ve already decided on your designs and are halfway through making them up.

It’s more than a bit worrying to be this far into the month without having designed all my most important pieces. I’m very worried about the coats. I blame the weather! It’s been so humid and hot. Who feels like sweltering in the steamy stockrooms of local drapers trying to work out which grade of this flannel and how much of that tweed to purchase when all I feel like doing is sitting in front of my electric fan. Honestly Diana, although it’s rather vulgar to admit, I’m literally dripping with sweat at the end of each inspection, thank goodness for dress shields [i].

Even my customers haven’t been interested in discussing the coming season which is rather unusual, but nonetheless welcome, given my current state of affairs. I’ve even had three of them come in and order more sleeveless runabout frocks to see them through the rest of this endless summer.

I’m very tempted to rework one of the best coats I designed last year. It is a loose style which buttons down the front and has long flared sleeves. The interesting thing about this coat is that it has a scarf joined to the neckline, rather than a collar.

Mine is fashioned from deep sapphire blue velvet and I added a heavy gold antique tassel to each end of the scarf, the latter purchased down the road at my favourite ‘junk’ shop which is a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of treasures. I bought a dozen pair of these gorgeous old tassels; apparently they are all that remain of ancient drapes from an English mansion brought out by an early settler. You must have seen me in my coat at least once - do you remember it? I’m thinking that the style would look heavenly in heavy black silk satin, perhaps with long kimono sleeves. It would be quite plain, apart from the gold tassels, but should look stunning don’t you think?

Part of the reason for this current state of affairs is that there’s been a delay in receiving my latest Paris fashion journals. While it is not my style to slavishly copy the designers, I do rely on them for most of my inspiration. And my customers like to know that their clothes are completely up to date with the Paris modes. My local stationer Rushtons [ii] says that they should be in this week so I’ll go out soon and check. If only my 'Harper’s Bazaar' is there I’ll be a very happy girl. Actually, I might pop out now and see...

Well, my dear, I’m just back from a very pleasant three hours spent sprawled out under a big old shady tree in Point Erin park, thumbing my way through the latest 'Mode Practique' which is full of the most delightful styles! I was in such good spirits that I had not one, but two ice creams from the park kiosk. Perhaps I didn’t really need the second one; it was more to recompense the kiosk girl for the loan of a pencil and some paper so I could get down some of the many ideas that kept popping into my head as I turned the pages.

It was so hot that I wished I had my bathing suit with me. In spite of swimming every other day last summer, I’ve only had a handful of swims in the pool this year. Like you, I’ve been going

to the beach for my swims, mostly on the weekends and with George in tow. I must start swimming regularly again at Point Erin. It would truly be heavenly at the end of a hot day like today.

I felt so invigorated from my session in the park that on the way home I dropped into Shanlys [iii] to finish looking at their new winter fabrics. This time I felt more focussed and I concentrated on seeking out lovely soft wool coatings in the jewel colours that I so love. I also came across some of that new knitted jersey fabric that Madame Chanel is so fond of. I’m thinking of designing a simple little dress from it, or perhaps a tunic and matching skirt.

Have you used it before? I’ve brought a dress length home to make up. It feels lovely to handle but I think it will only suit the very slimmest of my customers.

Diana - you’ll be really pleased to know that I’ve finally got around to getting my hair cut. I really wanted a change but didn’t know what to do, which is why I kept putting it off all the time.

I think that if it wasn’t for this dreadful humidity, I’d probably still be complaining about it and doing nothing. Anyway, my cousin Ida recommended someone in Newton, Madame Thora Tate, [iv] and I went last Wednesday. She cut quite a bit off the length which made it bounce up and regain a few waves. Then she thinned out the waves and they became even more pronounced.

It looks like I’ve had it shingled, but without all the chemicals!

There was someone getting a Marcel wave while I was there and honestly Diana, she looked a little like she belonged in that German movie we both love - was it called Metropolis? [v] I don’t think I could stand having all those wires attached to my head.

Well my dear, after writing to you I’m feeling quite hopeful that I might have my winter collection designed by the end of next week. That’s my plan anyway. However, my immediate plan is to take my sweet patient boy out for a nice walk and a swim in Cox’s Creek [vi]. Poor Tiger hasn’t had a walk for a couple of days. I’m sure he knows what I’m writing - he’s suddenly become very alert and is sitting attentively and staring intently at me while his tail thumps in anticipation. He only does that when I mention a walk!

I’ll let you know how I get on with my newfangled jersey fabric but in the meantime I wish you a very happy birthday for the 24th and hope you like the little present enclosed.

With much love,

Maudie x

Absorbent and often washable underarm pads that could be inserted and removed easily from garments and which would save the frequent laundering of clothing Rushtons, Stationers, Three Lamps (1924) [iii] Shanlys was one of many drapery stores in Ponsonby in the 1920s [iv] Madame Thora Tate, Bon Marche, Newton (1923) [v] Fritz Lang’s futuristic film Metropolis opened in 1927 [vi] The source of Cox’s Creek originally ran from Pollen St, down Williamson Ave, through Grey Lynn Park, through some intervening streets and across Richmond Road - See https://seansturm.wordpress.com/2010/03/14/meanderings-about-coxs-creek [i]

[ii]

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+ DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH PONSONBY PONSONBY PARISH NEWS+ March NEWS2018

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ELECTRIC TRANSPORT MORE ABOUT E-BIKES Last week I took the next step towards buying an e-bike, I went for a trial ride with Ponsonby News editor Martin Leach, photographer George and my wife Cait.

Maurice and Emilio from Electric Bicycle Hub briefed the four of us very thoroughly and off we rode on the pink track.

When I’d said to Emilio that it seemed very complicated - gears, peddle power, throttle power - he told us it was a bit like explaining to someone how to drive a car. It sounds very complicated but in reality it’s pretty easy.

This little story proved to be true. I had no problems. I kept the bike in the fourth gear, the power I set at two but was able to reduce to one or off, when I was slowing down or stopping.

The throttle impressed me greatly. If you are stationary, say at traffic lights, and the start off is a bit uphill, just twist the hand throttle slightly and off you go. Twist it too much and you will surge ahead.

I tried the 'Sprint', a good, but not luxury, bike made in China. They retail for about $4000. A customer in the shop while we were there had a good give away line. She said “e-bikes cost about as much as a very bad old car.” That price can vary a lot, but Maurice told us $3500 to $4000 will buy a very good e-bike.

They have a 10-year guarantee on the frame, and two years on everything else. Annual servicing usually costs about $100, while running costs are about another $100 a year.

About 40 cents for 100km is the cost estimate to run them. Every potential purchaser is encouraged to trial several bikes to find the one that suits them best.

It’s okay to ride in teaming rain: the electrics won’t be affected, but it is recommended that bikes be kept undercover at night. It’s also wise to have them well locked - many are being stolen.

The range of accessories available is interesting. Pannier bags hung over the back can carry a lot of groceries. Maurice can get a weekly shop on his bike. There are a variety of baskets and children’s seats. They have mudguards and chain guards and a kick stand.

Tubeless tyres are popular, especially for mountain or trail riding. They can be kept a bit softer than fully inflated tubed tyres.

There is no doubt that e-bikes make our rather hilly city, flat, which is a boon for those of us who are a bit older or those who don’t want to arrive at their destination hot and sweaty. These bikes give the rider options - go hard and peddle, get as fit as you can - or crank up the power and get an easy ride.

Always have somewhere easy to park, dress appropriately, and more than anything else I have heard from e-bike converts, have fun.

I still felt uncomfortable on roads with no designated cycleway, and would be happy to see more dedicated cycleways built, but would remind the powers that be, including our Waitemata Local Board, that cars are still legal and local small businesses need to able to be accessed by customers easily, or punters will just head off to the malls, and our local communities will die.

My advice, go try one, you may just love it. I certainly did. We’ll now address the question of safe storage of the bikes at home. But my car is not for sale yet.

Thanks Maurice and Emilio, you run a good show and have a good way with customers.

After all, Cait did eventually come back on her bike! (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN ELECTRIC BIKE HUB, 29 East Street, T: 368 5899, www.ebh.co.nz

E TODAY D I R T S E H TAKE A T PINK PAT E H T N O iently onven room is c e start w o h s r u O h right at t situated

50 Models available including...

eZee, Magnum & Bosch e-Bikes Electric Bike Hub Auckland 29 East Street, Newton 09 368 5899 | www.ebh.co.nz

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ELECTRIC TRANSPORT

2017 BMW i3 REX 94AH from $64,995

2016 30kwh Nissan Leaf from $29,995

2012 - 2015 Nissan Leaf from $16,995

AUTOLINK EV SPECIALISES IN 100% ELECTRIC VEHICLES Autolink has the largest range of electric vehicles at the most competitive prices. Their friendly sales staff are helpful and knowledgeable. They are open seven days a week to help you find the right electric vehicle to suit your lifestyle.

Why choose to go fully electric today with Autolink EV? Reduce costs Say goodbye to petrol, oil changes and expensive engine services. You will never have to stop for petrol again. Simply plug your car in when you get home at night and it is ready to go in the morning. So simple. You will benefit from very low maintenance. With much fewer moving parts, electric vehicles do not require a lot of servicing. Simply keep an eye on your wear and tear items and have a qualified mechanic check your vehicle over yearly.

Eco-friendly How would you like to minimise your impact on the environment? 100% electric vehicles run on a lithium-ion battery, not petrol. You can help save the planet by simply changing the way you drive. Petrol is a thing of the past and electric is our future. Imagine no more CO2 tailpipe emissions.

Comfort, style and technology Electric vehicles have all the latest features - driving assist, parking assist, parking sensors, lane departure alert, forward emergency braking, one pedal technology, regenerative braking, reverse or 360 degree cameras, Bluetooth audio and hands-free.

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Trim levels range from cloth to leather in various colours and styles. There is an electric vehicle to suit everyone.

Effortless driving Instant torque and so much fun. Electric vehicles are aerodynamically designed with a low centre of gravity, smooth to drive and completely quiet. Yes, that is right, no more engine noise. With a driving range of up 350km, depending on make, model and your usage. Even the cheapest models will give you approximately 100km range. Most people travel less than 50km a day and with the increasing number of public charging stations, it is now entirely possible to take your electric vehicle on that long-distance trip.

Very affordable Electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf now start from as little as $12,000. If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, then the BMW i3 and Renault Zoe are available from only $40,000. Combine lower-purchase prices with massively reduced running costs and there is no excuse not to retire your petrol car. Start thinking about the future and how you can increase the quality of yours and your family’s lives. F PN AUTOLINK EV, 428 GREAT NORTH ROAD, GREY LYNN, T: 09 378 9090, www.autolinkcars.co.nz

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ELECTRIC TRANSPORT TOP TIPS FOR SAFELY CHARGING AN EV AT HOME Electric vehicle advocacy group Drive Electric is encouraging potential EV owners to find out if their properties are suitable for home-charging.

Drive Electric board member Eric Pellicer says charging at home is the easiest way to power up an EV.

current device (RCD) protections, and a master switch so the charger can be turned off if you have any issues.”

“The good news is many homes should allow EV charging. But often a standard electrical socket on its own isn’t safe and specialist electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) is needed.

The key to picking the right charger is finding out the size of the on -board AC charger on the vehicle, Broomhall says.

“We recommend getting a home assessment done by a qualified professional. Electricians are also going through an educational process since the advent of EVs, with Master Electricians running a series of workshops to help educate their members about likely changes to industry guidelines.”

The on-board charger tells you how much energy the car can take in an hour.

“EVs are fantastic and having your own ‘gas station’ means you always start the day full. But with this comes the need to think carefully about the charger you choose, and how you use it.

Pellicer is encouraged that some EV dealers offer home assessments for customers.

“A quality EVSE that is Worksafe compliant has a number of built-in safety features designed to keep you and your family safe.”

“This kind of service makes sure customers have the information they need when purchasing an EV.”

Broomhall, who is also managing director of EVSE supplier Chargemaster, says there are other tips EV owners need to be aware of when charging at home. These include never using extension cords with any EVSE equipment because they aren’t designed to handle the large amounts of electricity required to fill up an EV.

Drive Electric charging expert Nigel Broomhall recommends EVSE, which is Worksafe compliant, because they have a number of built-in safety features.

“Quality chargers are rated for use in heavy rain, ice, snow and excess heat, and will not put you at risk of electrocution,” he says.

“Some cheap products warn you not to charge in the rain - this is not a good sign. Professionally installed EVSE also includes the right residual

“They can melt, catch fire or even electrocute you. Also, be careful with adaptors. Unless the adaptor has been approved by the charger PN manufacturer then it is not Worksafe compliant.” F www.driveelectric.org.nz

A Nissan Leaf charging

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ELECTRIC TRANSPORT THE BENEFITS OF E-BIKES Electric bikes are our passion. Our mission is to inspire New Zealanders with the benefits of electric bikes (or e-bikes), and to help our cities move smarter.

We are a team of committed individuals that want to see e-bikes become a major form of transportation in New Zealand, as part of a progressive trend towards sustainable transport.

bypass congestion at speed while enjoying all the mobility and fitness benefits of a bike. Using an e-bike is both fun and practical and delivers value to users’ lives in many different ways.

How long has Electric Bikes New Zealand been established and are you easy to find?

EBNZ celebrated its 10th birthday recently, and we are proud of our achievements in reaching most corners of New Zealand with Smartmotion and Pedego electric bikes through more than 50 partnered resellers.

Are electric bikes safe?

Electric bikes bear little to no more risk than riding an ordinary bike, other than that they travel at higher speeds than non-electric bikes.

Although the risks and hazards of riding in traffic persist, users find e-bikes fun and safe to use for commuting and for fun. Regulations impose certain limitations on the power output of electric bikes which the products must comply with to ensure safe use for the user.

What should people look for in electric bikes?

There are now a lot of e-bikes available to New Zealanders, and it’s important to choose a bike that’s right for you and your needs Every brand has their own unique features and sometimes conflicting benefits, but our advice is to talk to a knowledgeable electric bike retailer for help. The right choice is rarely the most expensive one, rather something that you feel comfortable and safe riding... and, most of all, that you find fun.

How can purchasing an e-bike benefit me?

Many people who are choosing to get an e-bike are finding that they are a viable alternative to their car for commuting. Particularly through Auckland where traffic is worsening, electric bikes can

How many kilometres can you ride before a recharge?

This is the most common first question! This largely depends on how much you choose to use the power controls, and the type of terrain that you are riding on... but most users would agree that their e-bikes get them between 40km to 100km on a charge.

What advice would you offer on keeping the bike safe from thieves?

Unfortunately, theft of e-bikes is on the rise, so it makes sense to invest in a quality locking system to keep your e-bike safe. Locks range in quality and protection, the most secure type being a D-shaped solid steel lock which secures the bike frame to a permanent fixture.

ELECTRIC BIKES NZ, 28 Arrenway Drive, Rosedale, T: 09 479 9274, www.electricbikes.co.nz

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LOCAL NEWS POCKET BAR & KITCHEN TURNS TWO! Tucked away in a corner of Grey Lynn, Pocket Bar & Kitchen has quietly been going about its business now for two years.

Here you’ll find no neon ‘open’ sign, or happy hour drinks promotion, but its shimmering atrium, overgrown ivy and stream of happy people give you a sense that this neighbourhood bar has quickly become one of Grey Lynn’s best keep secrets.

The bar started as a dream amongst local friends - but only really became a reality when the ASB bank in Grey Lynn announced it was closing its’ doors and the iconic corner site became ready for a new adventure.

But it’s not the trendy inner city location that makes Pocket what it is, the secret to its success is its warm and inviting feel - ideal for any occasion. A moment of inspiration saw the sun drenched original carpark at the back of the building as the prime spot to build the Pocket we know today... And build the friends did, as almost all of the bar was handmade locally, more often by friends and family ‘volunteering’ outside of their day jobs.

Quickly up and running, it didn’t take long for Pocket to expand into the historic ASB building to offer a unique private event space, playing host to everything from a 1st to a 60th birthday, along with many product launches, conferences and even a few weddings in between.

One of its calling cards has been the way Pocket has engaged the local neighbourhood with a series of fun and exciting events. Watching classic movies like Pulp Fiction (while you text your drinks order to the bar!), the famed “Pilates and Pinot” evenings, or experiencing some of New Zealand’s best known comedic talent have all become part of the weekly line up.

Perhaps one of the best supported events has been the ‘Dog & Grog” day where Pocket teams up with Vetcare Grey Lynn. Imagine up to 40 dogs of all sizes running riot while their owners catch up over a cold beer. A fantastic sight.

With the community’s continued support, Pocket’s most recent development has been the opening of a sun drenched garden bar. The combination of listening to live music every Sunday while being surrounded by citrus trees and graffiti art has become a must-do for locals and visitors to the area.

It is these elements that have made the local community wrap its arms around Pocket in such a short time. Part eclectic, part craft, part good honest fun, Pocket reflects the changing nature of the Grey Lynn community and its wide range of people and personalities. Like catching up with a good friend over a craft beer or glass of wine, Pocket’s warm welcome has been a wonderful addition to the neighbourhood.

You can keep across all of Pocket’s events on their instagram page @pocketbarandkitchen They take group bookings of up 50 people within Pocket and private events of up to 100 people in The Bank.

Email hello@pocketbar.co.nz to book.

POCKET BAR, 1 Tuarangi Road, Grey Lynn, www.pocketbarandkitchen.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ELECTRIC TRANSPORT ELECTRIFY.NZ CELEBRATES ITS THIRD BIRTHDAY WITH NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH Three years ago electrify.nz founder Michael Tritt started an electric bike business in a small store just off the corner of Franklin Road and Scotland Street.

Since then electrify.nz has gone nationwide, supplying bike stores around New Zealand from a distribution warehouse, to establishing new electrify.nz stores in Brown’s Bay, Tauranga, Hamilton and Dunedin.

“We are very excited to launch ‘Stromer' into the New Zealand market, it is the premium electric city bike brand in the world,” says Michael.

Michael Tritt has witnessed an explosion in electric bike uptake. “When I started the business I had to explain to people what an electric bike was. I remember after we opened in March 2015, only one guy came into the store in the first two weeks - and he didn’t buy.”

Stromer’s ST1x electric bike offers an extraordinary range of features, from GPS tracking, an anti-theft system and the ability to fine tune the bikes settings through Stromer’s proprietary Omni app. The product will be officially launched on Friday 16th March at a special event at Grid AKL in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter innovation precinct.

Free test rides will be available at the event, which will be open to the public, or at any time from the electrify store on Scotland Street. F PN

That little store on Scotland Street is still there and is frequented by locals who value electrify’s focus on quality brands, as well as their specialist knowledge.

“A booming market has attracted a lot of dubious products into the market, but the key to our success has been securing distribution rights to top international brands and focusing on quality and service,” says Michael.

Four bike brands are available through electrify.nz stores, which are all directly imported and supported by the company. Magnum, an American product is one of the country’s top selling electric bike brands, with a range of city and hybrid bikes available for under $3000. Bottecchia, a 90-year old Italian brand named after Ottavio Bottecchia (the first Italian winner of the Tour de France) combines style and tradition in their electric city and mountain bike range. Gepida, which Electrify import from Europe, provides a comfortable range of city bikes using the smooth and refined Bosch motor - the number one electric drive system in Europe. Finally, electrify.nz has recently added Swiss luxury electric bike manufacturer Stromer to its portfolio.

Michael Tritt

Stromer ST1X Launch 16 March, 5.30pm - 7pm GridAKL Event Space, John Lysaght Building, 101 Pakenham Street, West, Wynyard Quarter Open to the public: RSVP to michael@electrify.nz

The Stromer ST1x is available in sport and comfort frames electrify.nz, 5 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 889 2019, www.electrify.nz

The Swiss Driving Experience.

Book your test drive in-store at 5 Scotland St (off Franklin Road) or online at www.electrify.nz

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electrify.nz Auckland City 5 Scotland St, Freemans Bay Tel: +64 9 889 2019

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING CANNABINOIDS Cannabinoids are critical to the body's overall health, influencing all of our main organ and tissue systems.

At Waitangi, the Government said we should challenge them, hold them to account. We should do that, because goverment has been selling us out. A Ministry of Health report from 2008 states that "cannabinoids are critical to the body's overall health, influencing all of our main organ and tissue systems." Cannabis is "a legitimate advance in therapeutic option ... a panacea for overall maintenance/ protection ... and ... safer than alcohol."

vote against the Green's recent medical bill, even though it was a conscience vote.

Yet for the last 10 years government has restricted patient access and talked misleadingly about harm. Despite talk about making things easier, very little has been done, and many additional obstacles created. The Hemp Foundation also has an OIA that shows how the Director of Public Health and Ministers Coleman & Dunne restricted patient access to cannabis medicines through needless bureaucracy.

The Catholic church is not known for being progressive. Yet its Institute of Bio Ethics (US) states that doctors "should be able to prescribe raw cannabis. Patients have a right to all beneficial treatments, and to deny them this right violates their basic human rights."

Who benefits from this? It's not patients. Is it business? Is business behind the prohibition of hemp? Official documents in our possession show that it's all about money, and not about the public interest. We have been told another 'big lie' to protect industry.

In legal cannabis states, doctors prescribe 4593 fewer prescriptions a year. If we multiply that by our approximately 13,882 doctors, we would have 63,700,000 fewer prescriptions written, saving at least $1 billion dollars.

In its 2016 'statement of financial performance' Medicines NZ, a lobby group for the pharmaceutical industry, marked $151,106 as spent on 'Election Project 2017'. There are no records as to where or how it was spent, and no political party admits to receiving it. Interestingly, both National and NZF whipped their MPs to block

In legal cannabis states, alcohol sales are also down by 15%. In New Zealand that would mean one billion four hundred thousand dollars less spent on booze. It would also mean less crime, less social harm, fewer hospital admissions and fewer deaths.

The Hemp Foundation challenges this Government to tell the truth about cannabis. And if it doesn't know the truth, we would like to teach them. Thats what we do. Thats why we should be on the Government's Advisory Group on Medicinal Cannabis.

And for those people who are worried about youth use, prohibition breeds contempt among youth for authority, and compels them to investigate cannabis for themselves. In any case cannabis is of most benefit for those over 40, and it is of maximum benefit when applied rectally. When cannabis is legal again, and nanas and poppas across New Zealand are popping it up their bums to stave off stroke or dementia, do you think teens are going to put cannabis to their lips?

It's about getting healthy, not high. Let's learn how to use it properly.

(TADHG STOPFORD) F PN www.thehempfoundation.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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LIVIING, THINKING + BEING The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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JOHN APPLETON: ON HEALTH

Take coenzyme Q10 to avert an energy crisis Twenty years ago I was looking into ways to reduce my risk for cardiovascular diseases - which both of my parents suffered from.

I found out about a molecule known as coenzyme Q10, the catalyst for the production of all the energy needs of our cells.

Unless our cells can generate sufficient energy for their needs, it will be a struggle for us to function normally. This can be readily apparent in our heart cells which have very significant energy requirements in order to keep our heart beating 100,000 times every day.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble, vitamin-like substance that is found in the energy powerhouses of our cells, the mitochondria. CoQ10 can be likened to a spark plug in an engine. We can have the engine and the fuel but without the spark, the engine will not fire.

Scientists and doctors have known about CoQ10 for decades, yet because it can’t be patented and sold as a drug, the potential of this vital molecule has not been realised.

Coq10 was discovered by accident in 1957 by an American scientist Dr Fred Crane and, surprisingly, even though it is largely ignored by the medical establishment, CoQ10 has become one of the most sought-after supplements around the world. I was fortunate to meet Dr Crane when he was speaking at the fourth International Coenzyme Q10 conference in Los Angeles 2005.

We all make our own CoQ10 but as we age, production decreases and as a consequence mitochondria become less able to meet the energy requirements of our cells. For those of us who ‘huff and puff’ when walking up stairs or struggle to recover even after simple forms of exercise, this could be an indication of an energy deficit. If we don’t address this situation as we age and the heart becomes less able to circulate the blood around the body, more serious conditions such as heart failure may manifest.

Many older people may be unknowingly contributing to the problem by taking cholesterol -lowering medications which inhibit the body’s ability to make Q10. Consequences of

this can be serious and New Zealand doctors will have received reports from patients suffering with painful muscle aches which are attributable to low levels of CoQ10.

Many doctors are fortunately advising patients on cholesterol-lowering medications to supplement with CoQ10.

We should all be aware that if we want to maintain our youthfulness maintaining optimal mitochondrial function as we age is vital and, as I see it, this cannot happen without a bit of help from CoQ10. Some years ago as part of a study linking low levels of CoQ10 to ageing, 50 ‘old’ mice (equivalent to a 60-year-old human) were supplemented with CoQ10 and 50 mice were not. The mice that were supplemented with CoQ10 lived on average 50% beyond their normal life expectancy. This study was replicated three times with the same results. Apart from the very significant extension in life, the mice supplemented with CoQ10 retained a youthful appearance right up to the end of their lives.

I have been taking 100mg of CoQ10 for nearly 20 years. I started out taking the Ubiquinone (oxidised form) of CoQ10 but when the active form Ubiquinol was launched in 2006 I switched to this. The Ubiquinone form, which is commonly sold in pharmacies is fine, but after the age of 60 we become less able to convert the oxidised form into the active form. Does it help? All I can say is that I am never short on energy regardless of what form of exercise I undertake and my heart rate normalises very quickly.

There are many ways in which our mitochondria can be harmed as we go through life so we need to consider all options that may maintain their function. Supplementing with CoQ10 is one option that we should all be aware of.

Dr Fred Crane sums it up very succinctly - CoQ10 = energy = life. (JOHN APPLETON) F PN APPLETON ASSOCIATES, T: 09 489 9362, appletonassoc@xtra.co.nz, www.johnappleton.co.nz

NEW INTERACTIVE INFORMATION HUB LETS VISITORS BUILD UNIQUE WALKING EXPERIENCES An innovative digital portal has opened allowing visitors to design their own custom walking tours of the central city.

Incorporating a range of categories such as arts and culture, cycleways, walking routes, heritage spaces, urban forests and Maori sites of significance, the interactive citizen’s information hub, Pa Rongorongo, is located in Griffiths Gardens, the inner-city backyard for residents, workers and visitors.

In a New Zealand first, Pa Rongorongo lets visitors and Aucklanders build a walking or cycling tour that is unique to their own interests. This custom map can be sent as a text message link to their mobile phone or, in future, printed out on site.

Mayor Phil Goff says, “Pa Rongorongo is a central hub for Aucklanders and visitors to access up to date information about the development and future of our city. It’s a great new public facility where Te Reo is spoken and where Auckland’s strong Maori identity is celebrated through design.”

Constructed of two shipping containers with a special surface that glows in different colours, Pa Rongorongo features an interactive digital wall that will be programmed by local artists.

Features of Pa Rongorongo: • The Citizen’s Information Hub or Pa Rongorongo, is located at Griffiths Garden on the corner of Wellesley and Albert Streets.

• The interactive digital portal will display a range of mapped information on Auckland’s city centre including arts and culture, events, transport, current and future development sites, City Rail Link, cycleways, walking routes, public facilities,

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community spaces, sports and recreation, public art, heritage places, urban forests and Maori sites of significance.

• A 3D printed model of sections of the city centre.

• The For the Love of Bees Auckland Heritage seed bank.

• Exterior digital wall and façade programmed by artists in residence.

• The first artists in residence are two members from the FAFSWAG arts collective.

• Full time staff member fluent in Te Reo to answer questions and gather feedback.

• Poster displays and brochures.

• Information on free guided tours of city centre developments and arts and heritage projects.

• Pa Rongorongo will be able to be booked by community groups for events, exhibitions and discussions.

• In March, Pa Rongorongo will celebrate Auckland Transport’s Walk Month with a series of free walking tours including a behind the scenes look at the City Rail Link project and the New Zealand Fashion Museum’s popular fashion houses from the past tour.

• Pa Rongorongo is a joint project between Auckland Council and Auckland Transport.

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FUTURE GENERATION COMVITA EVENT @ COXS BAY Thursday 22 February

photography: George Shiers

Comvita held an afternoon event last month in Coxs Bay playground to show off their new honey-based dressings. There was a coffee truck, morning tea, a chance to hit the playground, entertainment for the kids and a goodie bag to take home!

NEW ZEALAND SHOULD CELEBRATE ITS GREAT GLOBAL TECH SUCCESS - IAN TAYLOR Ian Taylor, one of New Zealand’s most prominent tech experts, says New Zealand must celebrate its digital successes as one of the leading tech countries in the world.

Taylor received a huge ovation at the international Digital Nations Summit in Auckland recently for his impassioned plea to all Kiwis to feel proud of the country’s digital and tech successes.

“People are missing the story about New Zealand doing so brilliantly. We’ve got the America’s Cup success where we outsmarted all the big and powerful syndicates to win in Bermuda. Before Jimmy Spithill on BMW Oracle worked out why we were sailing so well, it was too late.

“I had a chat to Greg Cross from Soul Machines the other day and asked where he was.

He was in Davos, Switzerland giving the keynote at a big conference. Incredible.

“Then look what Peter Beck and Rocket Lab are doing on Mahi Peninsula, in association with the iwi there.

“Look, this tech stuff is in our DNA. Our ancestors showed innovation with new boat design to traverse the planet and start a new life out here. They navigated by the stars.

And now Peter Beck is sending up rockets to explore the stars that brought us to New Zealand in the first.

“It’s just amazing what we are doing. Look at Lance O’Sullivan in Northland who is doing so much great work providing iPads to help young Maori health up there. What a story.

“Our kids have not been taught the history of how we came to New Zealand. I learned about the Vikings and Henry the VIII at school. We were never taught our own heritage.

Our kids can do this. It’s in our DNA.”

“We need to remind our Maori and Pasifika kids that we may live at the bottom of the world but we are one of the leading digital nations.

All New Zealanders should be huge proud of the digital and tech achievements so many people have achieved to date, he said. Taylor drives Animation Research from Dunedin.

76 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

BILLY HARRIS: KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY

“If you want to leave your footprints on the sands of time, make sure you’re wearing ballet shoes.”

One week ago, on Februray 23, 12-year-old Hazel Couper enjoyed the most exciting night of her life.

That was the night The Piano The Ballet opened at the St James Theatre in Wellington, with Hazel playing the role of Flora, the young girl who accompanies her mother from Scotland to New Zealand in the 1850s. The whole experience has had Hazel’s head spinning, in more ways than one.

First, Hazel had to compete with 104 other girls for one of the two roles (the role is shared by two performers, with a third as standby).

The audition was divided into two groups, the Wellingtonians and the rest. After a short ballet class, the top 10 were taken from each group. Twenty were progressively narrowed down to just five, who learned and role-played a scene from The Piano. The five were released to wait nervously for the call, which Hazel’s mum Fiona received a couple of hours later. Then the celebrations began.

They went long into the night (10pm, which is long for a 12-year -old!). Hazel and her mum were staying at an apartment with a good ballet friend and her mum, so they started by exchanging excited phone calls and texts with friends and family, who were sworn to secrecy until the news became public. Then they went out for dinner, the mums allowing themselves a glass of bubbly, before coming back to the apartment, where the girls went for a swim. They’d have splashed around all night if the spoilsport mums hadn’t hauled them out to get some sleep!

There’s also the hardship of being away from the rest of the family - dad Steve, brothers Otto and Bay, and beloved 19-year-old cat Jasmine - and her friends. (Mum got the tough job of living it up in the capital with her new buddies - Christina, Bianca’s mum, and Gemma’s mum Yolanda - while the girls rehearsed.) Hazel was due to go on holiday with her best friend Elliot and her family, but then she got the role of Flora, so that went on hold.

But Hazel wouldn’t change a thing, and she’s approached the role like a true pro. Prior to the audition she read a detailed synopsis of the movie and watched several scenes. After landing the job, she’s watched the full movie to immerse herself in her role.

Now all the hard work’s paid off, and Hazel is living the dream.

Not only is she dancing with people she has watched and admired for years, she’s become friends with them, particularly William Fitzgerald, who plays Baines, and her on-stage mother Abigail. It’s an inspiration for the young dancer, and a peek into a world she PN hopes one day will be her own. (BILLY HARRIS) F

Bianca Lungu is the other Flora, and Gemma Lew is understudy. If this was the movies, the girls would hate each other, plotting to make each other injured or sick. But the trio get on famously, and are having the time of their lives together, learning, dancing and becoming friendly with the cast and crew.

As anyone serious about their craft knows, behind the glitz and glamour is a lot of hard work. In fact, Hazel’s been preparing for this role, without knowing it, since age four, when she joined the Philippa Campbell School of Ballet, where she’s worked hard under Philippa, who put her forward for the role, and Joye Lowe. The workload ramped up for The Piano, though. Hazel’s day typically started with a ballet class with the company before rehearsals, which went from 9.30am to 6pm. Leading up to opening night, they rehearsed until 10.30pm, and Hazel wouldn’t get to bed until midnight.

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photography: Stephen Acourt

Why was Hazel chosen? She hasn’t been told, but Fiona guesses that Hazel had the technical ability the choreographer, Jiri Bubenicek, and the dance masters were looking for. Perhaps she also had the right 'look', and certainly her experience would have helped, as she does contemporary (eg, The Piano), classical, barefoot, national character, and demi character (a dance that tells a story and requires acting and dancing skills).

She’s also done theatre class. Although of course she hadn’t danced in a production like The Piano before, she had danced in the ballet school concert every year since the age of four, and been involved in school productions.

Hazel on the left with Bianca on right and Gemma behind

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

Andrew Maben and Ben Andrew Maben is the well-known owner of Novel, the small bookstore on Jervois Road. He has recently introduced five-month -old Ben to his life.

How long have you had Ben? Three months.

What breed is he?

Ben is a Sheltie.

How did you come to choose Ben? Ben is the eigth Sheltie we’ve had in the family. The first Sheltie guarded my pram when I was a baby, so I have had a long association and love for Sheltie’s.

How did Ben get his name?

I like short, punchy names for dogs. The breeder wasn’t happy with the name as his father Saint Becker won 'Best in Show' in Australia so when I went to pick him up she had named him Saint Becker Ben on his birth certificate.

What is your favourite thing to do together?

Chase. I chase Ben around the garden, inside, around the furniture in the living room, then outside again. We sometimes do the circuit 20 to 30 times!

photography: Martin Leach

Does Ben have friends?

Ben has a huge fan base at Novel. He is often picked up for play dates with customers' dogs or taken for walks. His favourite is Beckett, a Labradoodle. They will play together for hours.

What does Ben like to eat?

He loves roast organic chicken but I think his favourite is panko crumbed, pan fried fish.

I swear he gets more than I do!

@ SPCA - PLEASE ADOPT ME Many beautiful animals are looking for the loving and forever home they deserve. Adopt an SPCA animal and in return you will be rewarded with a lifetime of unconditional love. www.spcaauckland.org.nz/adopt

Toffee

Ron

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

Davie

Harley

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

TEDDY ON TOUR A fashionable British dog brings his own brand of accessories to Auckland.

Online store and dog blog 'Tales of Teddy' is the result of an ex-fashion editor welcoming one shoe-chewing, hairy, mucky, puppy - namely Teddy, the Miniature Schnauzer - into her life.

Teddy and his family relocated from London to Auckland six months ago and brought the brand with them. Although currently an online dog accessories store, a Tales of Teddy pop-up at stationers, Passion for Paper, to celebrate the Chinese Year of the Dog and help raise funds for the SPCA, recently went down well with stylish dog lovers in Parnell.

What sets Tales of Teddy apart? Founder Samantha Murray Greenway’s take on dogs' goods, inspired by 25 years working in fashion for Vogue, In Style, Financial Times among others. It all began when she couldn’t find the kind of doggy information she needed (how to stop a dog gnawing your Jimmy Choos? The smartest way to get rid of the smell of wet dog?), so she wrote a dog blog. When she couldn’t find the kind of stylish dog kit that she wanted for her dog - beautifully crafted but also canine-practical - she had it made.

The result - www.talesofteddy.com - is a tight range of dog goods made in collaboration with master craftspeople, exclusively for Tales of Teddy. Each item has a story. Take the Better Rope Lead, whipped and stitched by master ropemakers at Historic Dockyard Chatham, the same place that made ropes for Cutty Sark and HMS Victory. Fittingly, the Tales of Teddy rope lead is strong, traditionally detailed and comes with a distinctive, horsey, hemp rope smell.

Tradition is important. The bridle leather collars are hand-stitched, using no rivets, glue or machines. “Some will say they’re expensive,” says fastidious saddler Emma Baker-

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Jones who makes them, “But they’ll last 20 years if you look after them.” In this age of throwaway everything, that matters. The hand-cast brass buckles are designed together with one of the oldest British brass foundries. They have a stainless steel tongue, not just because Samantha’s fashionista eye likes the versatility of silver put with gold, but because this makes for the strongest buckle. When you’re dealing with dogs, practicalities are all-important.

Everything is beautifully made and thoroughly thought through. Dog blankets woven in a Welsh mill, are made in a dog-friendly size and three neutral, dog-friendly colours because, “Why highlight dog hairs?” as Samantha says. “Some have said these are ‘too good for the dog’. But as most dog owners know, that is rarely the case.” www.talesofteddy.com

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS O T T E R HO US E

report card 2 0 1 7

report card 2 0 1 7

name: B a t m a n D o b s o n

name: M a x W o o d c o c k

breed: C h i n e s e

breed: D a l m a t i a n

age:

Crested

12 years

age:

class: l Colehill Cottage

SOCI A L

6 years

PL AY F U L

class: l Woodbury Park

Overall Behaviour

C A R EFR EE

Overall Behaviour

best achievement

Settling into daycare, learning the ropes and making new friends.

best achievement

needs some work

Sharing their favourite Aunty or Uncle with the rest of the class.

needs some work

Is able to enjoy a fun game without disturbing his quieter classmates.

core subjects

physical education

social studies

Perfecting his ‘sit’ in reception!

core subjects

physical education

social studies

manners

A-

ball & tug

C+

gregarious / outgoing

A+

manners

A

ball & tug

A

gregarious / outgoing

A+

attentiveness

A

chase & wrestle

C+

amiable / charming

A+

attentiveness

A

chase & wrestle

A

amiable / charming

A+

attitude

A+

interactive games

C+

reliable / thoughtful

A

attitude

A+

interactive games

B+

reliable / thoughtful

A+

best friends

best known f for or

best friends

best known f for or

Coco Dobson,Frankie Laus,Coco

Always being best dressed in

Angus Sonderer,Miko Main,Sabine

Always having a huge smile on

Kenny,Enzo Howard

VIP room.

Johnston,Tyler Pengelly,Stella Van Aalst,Dot Jones,Fred Reynolds,Tuskani

his face.

Hawkins,Marco Oliveira,Zac Bassett,Bane Gurney

overall comments

overall comments

Batman has taken to daycare life like an old pro, forming lots of

Max has made the most of 2017, he is a real social butterfly

new friendships and making the most of everyday. While he loves

who makes the most of every day. While we love the exuberance,

a cuddle or silly game with the teachers, he is encouraged to

he is still learning to control his excitement in reception.

build confidence even further by joining in on group games and

Bursting with spirit and enthusiasm, he is the pawfect student.

activities. With the best manners and the most lovable loyalty he is the pawfect student.

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

80 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS O T T E R HO US E

report card 2 0 1 7

report card 2 0 1 7

name: B i l l y L y a l l

name: L u c y K i s t a n n a

breed: C a v a l i e r K i n g C h a r l e s S p a n i e l

breed: B u l l M a s t i f f x N e o p o l i t a n SOCI A L

age:

9 years

age:

class: l Colehill Cottage

2 years

PL AY F U L

class: l Woodbury Park

Overall Behaviour

C A R EFR EE

Overall Behaviour

best achievement

Being top of the class when it comes to cuddles.

best achievement

Settling into daycare, learning the ropes and making new friends.

needs some work

Developing confidence around the more boisterous students.

needs some work

Keeping their ears switched on when whirlpooling around the classroom with friends.

core subjects

physical education

social studies

core subjects

physical education

social studies

manners

A+

ball & tug

A

gregarious / outgoing

A-

manners

A-

ball & tug

B+

gregarious / outgoing

B+

attentiveness

A

chase & wrestle

B+

amiable / charming

A+

attentiveness

B+

chase & wrestle

A

amiable / charming

A-

attitude

A+

interactive games

B+

reliable / thoughtful

A+

attitude

A-

interactive games

A-

reliable / thoughtful

A-

best friends

best known f for or

best friends

best known f for or

Harry Mann,Sparky Hassall,Bella

Always having impeccable

Boy Fitzpatrick,Bunty Sneddon,Alice

Always first in line for a

Murphy,Bella Murphy,Harry

manners when it comes to

,Duke Smith,Duke Currin,Honey Roberts,Blue

Mann,Sparky Hassall,Joe Hawes,Molly Hirst,Aunty Manal ,Puppers Hope

treat time.

Chorao,Skylar Pereira,Rosie Dobson,Lily Methven

cuddle and that delicious face.

Goedhart,Paco Delgado ,Ruby Broadhurst,Heidi Williams,Juca Frost,Chilli Rowe,Spencer Sommerville

overall comments

overall comments

Beautiful Billy has had another wondeful year in Colehill. He

We are so proud of how Lucy has settled into daycare, bonding

loves having a run around in the morning when he’s up for it and

with staff and making some new four-legged friends as well.

is first on the couch for snuggles during quiet time. We love his

Whilst her ears sometimes appear to be painted on, she is

happy-go-lucky attitude!

learning that listening and focus will be rewarded. Her social and friendly nature makes her a great new addition to Otter house.

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

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BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

SPCA ANNUAL APPEAL CALLS FOR PUBLIC SUPPORT

VETCARE'S NEW VET

The story of a litter of kittens who were heartlessly dumped in a bin liner, is just one of the cases on this year’s SPCA List of Shame. The annual list reveals details of 11 of the most shameful animal abuse cases across New Zealand this year, in anticipation of our biggest nationwide fundraising drive, from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 March.

Shalsee is originally from the US and her southern twang can always be heard throughout the clinic. Pop in to VetCare Grey Lynn to meet her!

This year’s ambassador, Sully, a poodle-spaniel cross, was rescued by an SPCA Inspector after he was found living in a dark room. After months of rehabilitation, Sully was adopted by a new, loving family. The animal welfare investigation is still ongoing and is yet to be brought before the courts.

How long have you been a vet?

I have worked in a veterinary clinic for 25 years and have been a qualified veterinarian for 11 years.

Help animals in need 9-11 March

SPCA CEO Andrea Midgen, says, “We dealt with close to 15,000 welfare complaints in 2017. We need the public’s support to end this shameful cruelty in New Zealand once and for all. We receive almost no Government funding to run the SPCA Inspectorate, which costs approximately $9 million every year.”

Meet our amazing vet Shalsee Vigeant! She came to us from the SPCA part time, but we convinced her to work with us full time since start of the year.

What's your favourite thing about being a vet?

The awesome patients I get to meet every single day and making their lives better

Why do you work for VetCare?

The amazing team, the high-quality of care our patients receive and the nurses feed me good lunch.

In your spare time what do you do?

Volleyball, read, hang out with friends and my dogs.

This year’s list comprises of upsetting stories about acts of violence and neglect - including a dog who was dumped at a beach after receiving blunt force trauma to his head, a pony who was left to suffer after severely botched dental work, and a duck who was found with catastrophic fireworks-related injuries.

Why did you choose to become a vet?

It’s the best job in the world!

“The List of Shame will shock people. It’s very clear that with such cruelty going on, our work needs to continue - to protect those who cannot speak for themselves. The Annual Appeal aims to raise much-needed funds, which will be used to care for abused animals and educating people to help prevent cruelty,” added Andrea. F PN

Favourite food?

Boiled crawfish from Louisiana

Donations to our Annual Appeal can be made to street collectors around the country from Friday 9 March or online at www.spcaannualappeal.org.nz

What's your passion?

Veterinary medicine and the sunshine

Do you have any pets?

Two Chihuahuas that travelled from the US to New Zealand with me. One will be 18 this year and the other is just a little rascal.

VETCARE GREY LYNN, 408 Great North Road, T: 09 361 3500, www.vetcare.net.nz

THIS WEEK YOU CAN BE THE HERO. 8

Please donate to make a difference spcaannualappeal.org.nz

82 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PONSONBYPROFESSIONALS: PROFESSIONALS: LOGAN LOGANGRANGER GRANGER

The importance of having a strong balance sheet and how it can affect your business Businesses with strong balance sheets are more inclined to survive economic downturns and remain in a better position to succeed when the going gets good again.

A strong balance sheet involves more than simply having more assets than liabilities, your balance sheet will need to be structured to support your business goals and in turn maximise financial performance. This can be achieved by maintaining intelligent working capital, positive cash flow, a balanced capital structure and income generating assets.

Intelligent working capital A strong balance sheet will utilise an optimal level of working capital (current assets less current liabilities) to fund the business core operations, with the end goal of deriving revenue and subsequently profit. It is important that you can identify what the optimal level is for your business. The aim here is to strike a balance between liquidity and profitability, which are often conflicting strategies. Having an excessive amount of funds tied up in stock will strangle your cash flow and reduce your ability to meet financial obligations as they fall due. On the other hand, having too much cash sitting in the bank could be coming at a massive opportunity cost to the business and could be better utilised by investing in higher income - generating assets or paying off debts.

Positive cash flow Although this is a part of working capital, it is so important to a business that it requires its own section. Cash is one of the most important signs of a strong balance sheet, as your business will not be able to breathe without cash flow. All businesses need cash to achieve their short

-term goals - to pay employees, trade payables and a host of other expenses. It’s therefore vitally important to manage cash flow through forecasting, budgeting and the use of variance analysis.

Balanced capital structure A strong balance sheet will employ a balanced mix of debt and equity funding to maximise the return on capital employed. Debt is usually a cheaper source of financing as interest is deductible and shareholders often require a higher return on their investment. However, taking on debt always poses some risk - it can be rewarding when times are good but dangerous when there is a downturn.

Because of this risk, managing banking covenants becomes imperative. Equity financing can be more expensive but is considered less risky as there is no obligation to repay your shareholders periodically. Entities with strong balance sheets retain enough earnings to fund growth and achieve business goals while distributing excess funds to beneficiaries. Often strong balance sheets are the result of borrowing debt at a good time, (for example when interest rates are very low).

Income-generating capital assets A business requires suitable capital assets to generate revenue, with some entities more capital intensive than others. Management should invest in assets which will assist the business in achieving its financial goals. These

capital assets must be reviewed regularly, and if they are not performing then move them on and invest in those which are.

Strengthening your balance sheet There are numerous reasons why a business might not have a strong balance sheet - poor financial performance, taking on unserviceable debt, stripping too much money out of the business... the list goes on.

Taking steps to strengthen and maintain a strong balance sheet will help your business thrive during even through the toughest of times. It also decreases the risk of failure. Growing business can be expensive, but a strong balance sheet will serve as a foundation from which you can launch into new products and markets. Not to mention - bankers love nothing more than seeing a solid balance sheet with healthy cash reserves and a balanced capital structure when assessing loan applications.

Overall, a strong balance sheet will make you more agile and give you options to shape a more profitable future.

(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 CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU Citizens Advice Bureau is an independent community organisation offering a free, confidential and independent service of information, assistance and referral from 84 locations stretching from Northland to Invercargill.

Last year volunteers received over 540,000 enquiries on issues ranging from electricity, immigration, housing and employment to consumer rights, health and family.

Before you begin your new job, it’s important to read and understand your employment agreement, because this is a record of the conditions of your employment.

“We get many questions from clients who are unsure of their employment rights," says Margaret Antunovich of Citizens Advice Bureau Grey Lynn/Ponsonby. “Often it turns out that they don’t have a written, signed employment agreement. What we are seeing suggests that employers who don’t provide employment agreements are also less likely to be meeting their other obligations, for example giving their employees pay information and making PAYE deductions.

“It’s actually a legal requirement for an employer to give their employee a written copy of the employment agreement. Your agreement should specify details such as your hours of work, what your work duties will be, where you will do your work, your pay rate, leave entitlements and so on.

Margaret adds that any conditions in the agreement must meet minimum employment conditions. “For example, it can’t specify a pay rate that is below the minimum wage, or provide for less than the

Your FIRST

minimum entitlements for leave. Once the agreement has been signed, any changes to it must be agreed to by both you and your employer.

“If you think there might be a problem with your employment agreement, or you aren’t sure what you’re agreeing to, come and see us at the Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn. We can help you know your employment rights and work out what your options are if you aren’t getting what you’re entitled to."

CAB is open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm and Saturdays 11am-1pm.

You could also phone them on T: 09 376 0392 or toll free on 0800 367 222, or send an email ponsonby@cab.org.nz. CAB also has information about employment rights on its website. F PN www.cab.org.nz

CALL for a wide range of free,

up to date and confidential information about: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Consumer rights Budgeting Legal clinics Employment rights Justice of the Peace Health & welfare issues House & tenancy issues Unemployment problems Education & training Personal & family issues Immigration needs Local & general information Photocopying & faxing

Citizens Advice Bureau

0800 FOR CAB or 09 376 0392 510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn www.cab.org.nz

84 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: METROLAW Got a legal question? Ask michael@metrolaw.co.nz

Q:

My mother has gone into a rest home as she is no longer able to look after herself and is starting to show some signs of dementia. Mum’s house is in trust but WINZ are asking me a whole lot of questions about the trust that I don’t know the answers to and it seems that until I answer them I have to pay for Mum’s care, is this right? How do I find out what has happened with the trust?

A:

The Government provides a means tested subsidy for people needing residential rest home care. If you have too much money or too many assets then you don’t qualify. In some instances they will lend you the money and take a charge over your house. There has been an advantage for people who have put their property into a trust because as long as they did it early enough when property values were lower and completed a gifting programme then they may well not own any property (it’s owned by the trust) and they don’t have an asset being the debt back to them from their trust because they had forgiven this debt over time.

When gift duty was abolished a few years ago lots of people did a lump sum gift and got rid of all the debt owed to them by their trust. The problem with this in respect of rest home subsidies is that the means test counts back in gifts of more than $27,000 whenever they were made. Gifts made recently are also counted back in.

You will need to locate all the trust documents that record the movement of capital and gifting to the trust and check to see when any gifting has been done. This can be tricky when you are trying to do this for your parents when they may not have all the documents or remember what they have done or why. You may need to track down documents through different law firms and practitioners. It’s a good idea to check with their lawyer and accountant to understand what is owned by the trust, any debt back and gifting completed. Let me know if we can be of any assistance. (MICHAEL HEMPHILL) 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

TRANQUIL WATERFRONT MASTERPIECE When former St Mary’s Bay resident Dominic St Cartmail first saw ‘Casa del Mar’ (house by the sea) six years ago, he was instantly wowed.

The water views are simply breath-taking; the inside, a work of art.

This is a very luxurious, tranquil house set on the corner of a North Shore peninsula just 15 minutes, drive from the Harbour Bridge and State Highway 1.

“CASA DEL MAR” Exquisite waterfront property with shared jetty Iconic home designed by Ian Burrow 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double garage Salt water pool, 200-degree water views Peaceful and so private

Designer Ian Burrow, renowned for his curved, split-level architectural houses, calls Casa del Mar one of his signature creations. Natural light streams through the high ceilings accentuating the play between interior angles and curves. Off the living area, a sunken conversation pit with leather sofas and round fireplace is surrounded by tall windows.

All three downstairs bedrooms have outdoor access and the wraparound deck is perfectly oriented towards the sun. Upstairs there are two double bedrooms - one with an ensuite and private balcony.

The sculpted turrets reminiscent of an Arabian castle are a familiar sight to yachties making their way up the Waitemata harbour. This truly is a modern palace.

There is a private swimming pool with stairs leading down to the water's edge (there are riparian rights) and a jointly owned jetty.

Although Dominic has immensely enjoyed living and entertaining in Casa Del Mar, the house is too large for him now as he is planning to spend most of his time overseas. F PN For sale by negotiation. Contact Prudence Foster at Harcourts Cooper & Co., M: 027 486 7783 prudence.foster@harcourts.co.nz www.goo.gl/iks9bc The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

105 Aeroview Drive, Beach Haven Prudence Foster M 027 4867783 E prudence.foster@harcourts.co.nz

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@ ROSE AND HEATHER 1. Bespoke 9-drawer in oak with linen drawer fronts POA 2. Newport hall table - $2190 3. Christopher Elliott 4-post bed from $5680 4. Trenail sofa chair in linen - $3660 1

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ROSE AND HEATHER, 406 Great North Road, T: 09 376 2895, www.roseandheather.com

COPENHAGEN WALL SYSTEM @ BOCONCEPT Everyone’s storage needs are different. Whether you want to put it all out there or tuck it away, whether you’re decorating your first apartment or decking out your dream home, storage needs to work for you. It needs to be easy and it needs to make you happy.

The Copenhagen wall unit from BoConcept is a customisable wall system that can be made into a bookcase, a corner desk, a sideboard, or a media unit. Featuring beautiful Scandinavian style and a typically Danish approach to functionality, the Copenhagen is a truly stylish and adaptable piece of storage furniture perfect for the living room, dining room, office or bedroom.

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1. Copenhagen bookshelf - $8589; 2. Copenhagen media unit - $7069; 3. Copenhagen wall system - $5819 BOCONCEPT, 20 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, www.BoConcept.co.nz

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HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN At the time of writing this, I was waiting for cyclone Gita to provide a much needed breeze and hopefully nothing more than that.

A few weeks earlier, in the road where I live, we were hit by such a huge deluge of rain, the stream rose up and flooded much of the area. Beekeepers that live close to the stream watched in horror as their beloved hives were swept away. I was sad to hear that once the hives are gone, the surviving bees without a home eventually die. Not surprisingly, I suddenly have a large number of bees frolicking on the flowers in my garden. The beekeepers have constructed new hives in the hope that the bees will return. Apparently, bees never forget where they live.

I’m following up on this with the beekeepers. I hope to have a happy ending story to tell you in the next issue.

Extreme weather has an impact on all life forms. As I battle the humidity, I notice that my dog and the birds are struggling too. Mosquitoes and mites are slowing some of us down and having an effect on our appearance. The birds around me are showing a loss of plumage around the neck area and, worse still, around their eyes. I quite often see birds sit and deliberately face into the sun. They raise their wings and soak up the rays. Presumably, this is something they do to rid themselves of their mites and to assist with the healing. The birds are also bathing throughout the day, so I’m refreshing the water quite often. An image I took of a tui bathing makes me laugh. The bird looked both dishevelled and puffed up with contentment all at once.

I have found it somewhat challenging to find an attractive bird to photograph of late. They all look ghastly! However, just as I was about to slam the door on my avian talent agency, I spotted a juvenile tui impersonating a meerkat. This striking juvenile tui is completely black, which is very unusual. Ordinarily, they have fluffy grey plumage around the neck area and at least some signs of the pending white throat feathers. This wonderful character spends a lot of time posturing at the top of a dead cabbage tree. It's the tui way of challenging other birds, so as to rule the territory. I hope this youngster can weather the storms along with the rest of us. (HEIDI PADAIN) F PN 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, or look her up on Facebook... Heidi Padain Photography.

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

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• Character bungalow on level 451m2 site.

• Spacious open-plan living with bi-fold doors opening onto your deck.

• Fantastic Westmere location, an easy walk to the school, cafe and shops.

SOLD ON AUCTION DAY 24 Lawrence St, Herne Bay “We selected Felicity to market our home as we found her approach honest, direct and professional. Felicity’s great work ethic and honesty, combined with her experience made us completely confident that everything possible was being done to achieve the best outcome and price for our house. Our marketing campaign was well thought out and we were very happy with the final result.

We would have no hesitation recommending Felicity to anyone considering selling their home.” - Mike Thornton and Sandy Sims

60 Walford Rd, Pt Chevalier

1/4 Curran St, Herne Bay

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41 Napier St, Freemans Bay

Felicity Scott BBS | Residential Sales M 0274 522 241 B 09 376 3039 E f.scott@barfoot.co.nz | barfoot.co.nz/f.scott The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS 59 FRANCE, BY URBAN COLLECTIVE Urban Collective is a team of experienced, multi-award -winning developers who have made a philosophical decision to focus on building freehold high-end and boutique residential developments.

They are renowned for bringing individual style, design and personality to the residential market.

59 France represents a culmination of Urban Collective’s expertise in crafting exceptional living spaces and city communities, delivering a unique habitat for creativity, thinking, dreaming, and enjoyment. The contrasting modern elements of the building meet the city skyline eye to eye, with cascading views of the inner west and Waitakere Ranges. www.urbancollective.co.nz

@ DAWSON & CO 1. Sunday Chair by Wendelbo - $2619 With its laid-back attitude, the Sunday Lounge Chair, designed by Anderssen & Voll for Wendelbo, simply invites you to take a break in comfort - a meditative moment in a soft and luxurious lounge chair.

2. Hug Chair by Wendelbo - $3199 Hug Chair, let the laid-back Danish design embrace you. The frame is made from solid wood and medium-density fibre board, with webbing spring system.

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3. Sarah Chair by &Co Studio - $1369 Sarah Chair - European-inspired and modern minimalism. The frame made from solid oak with a fabric sling holding a linen cushion.

4. Vanessa Chair by &Co Studio - $3179 The Vanessa Lounge chair - with its classic contemporary style, this beautiful lounge piece adds warmth and comfort to any interior.

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DAWSON & CO., 115 The Strand, Parnell and 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, T: 09 476 1121, www.dawsonandco.nz

90 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

DAW S O N & C O .

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

@ ECOSTORE Large ecostore Baby Gift Box - These baby gift boxes are sure to please, with a lovely selection of ecostore baby products and a beautiful organic cotton baby clothing item from Pureborn. The large ecostore baby gift box contains: Bubble bath 200ml Baby shampoo 200ml Baby body wash 200ml Baby moisturiser 200ml Nappy balm 60ml Baby soap 80g Pureborn organic cotton baby clothing item* ...all packed in a wooden gift box made from untreated, sustainably sourced New Zealand Pine, featuring artwork by John Reynolds.

Enjoy a bundle of luxurious ecostore body care products and then get inspired with Ecoman, the story of the plucky New Zealand entrepreneur who founded ecostore and turned it into a global success story. The Ecoman gift pack contains: Ecoman book Coconut & vanilla body wash 400ml Extra moisturising body lotion 220ml Orange & cinnamon soap 100g Manuka & kelp soap 100g ...all beautifully packed in a wooden gift box made from untreated, sustainably sourced New Zealand pine.

ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz

@ DESIGN WAREHOUSE 1. South Bay Modular Sofa Create an outdoor space that is elegant, sophisticated and bold with the stunning South Bay Modular Sofa.

The plush, luxurious SunbrellaÂŽ Cushions are included as shown with your purchase. Shown with the Chess and Blok Concrete Side Tables.

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2. Kobii Sun Lounger Lounge poolside on this sleek and modern outdoor chaise lounge and keep your drink nearby on the beautiful Holly Concrete Side Table.

3. Bugg Teak Dining Set Enjoy dinner for two on this French cafe-inspired dining set. It features our famous A-grade teak round pedestal table and new Bugg Wicker and Teak Dining Chairs.

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DESIGN WAREHOUSE, 137/147 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 377 7710, www.designwarehouse.co.nz

92 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

FOR SALE

Thames, Coromandel Outstanding 70s Home plus Income.

This 3 bedroom home and sunny self-contained flat would easily convert to a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with 2 living areas - the choice is yours.

Viewing is essential to truly appreciate this exceptional property.

Emma Muir / Residential Sales PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited M 027 2101803 B 07 867 9596 E emma.muir@pggwrightson.co.nz Listing reference: THA27698

Ashley Tait

Your Local Quiet Achiever

E X P E R I E N C E H A S I T S R E WA R D S 7 Homes Sold, Marketed & Settled in the last 60 days to the value of $18m

Ashley 021 325 009 | a.tait@barfoot.co.nz

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TALES OF CHESTER (EPISODE 8) Chester has a part-time job. He is the ‘kindy cat’ of The Learning Centre nearby, a parent told me as he allowed his daughter to hold and carefully inspect Chester’s paw.

The Ponsonby Vet cattery vet commented that Chester has such a nice nature that he is good with other cats and children. Al, my two-year-old grandson, even tried to share his blueberries with Chester (see photo). Typically, a mother and young girl recently stopped outside the house to chat, pleased to have found his home, as he often calls in to see them.

During the rest of the day, he lounges round our place, sometimes going off to see his many friends. He knows more local people than I do. Several asked me if he was okay, as they hadn’t seen him recently - because he’d been in the cattery. He found, however, a great place for a lie down. The originator of the Community Library Boxes was repairing the Vermont Street Box. He removed his tools and temporarily placed some books in his cardboard box. Chester took this as an invitation to climb in and watch him work.

I chatted later to a woman there; she knows the cat as a frequent visitor to her John Street backyard. His own street is rich pickings; he does much couch surfing! He enjoys Kelly’s hospitality most days. (Fame: they have his Ponsonby News’ articles pinned to their wall!) In response to a text, when I offered to pick him up one evening, Cleo said Paul would do it, as he knew the house because, “Chester pops in quite a bit. He’s really sweet.” Bronwyn nearby returned his collar and told me he had invited himself to her 70th birthday party. Her grandchildren were delighted. While I was greeting Chester, a man stopped and said he often stayed overnight and loved running up the stairs and using the ladder to the attic.

@ FREEDOM 1. Freedom Furniture Mahalo Bath Sheet in Tourmaline - $49.95 Running out of hot water is no longer an issue with the plush-to-touch Mahalo towel. The lure of this oversized bath sheet will have you racing out of the shower, just to dry off.

2. Freedom Furniture Mildas Laundry Hamper - $149 The dutiful haven for worn clothes and towels, Mildas keeps the bathroom tidy all year round (without having to say a word).

3. Freedom Furniture Metisse Tray, Soap Dispenser, Tumbler and Toilet Brush (sold separately) - $88.80 Three’s no crowd with the Metisse range. Finished with a speckled coating, this trio is the finishing touch to a contemporary bathroom or ensuite.

4. Freedom Furniture Sidebar Bathmat in Natural - $39.95 Soggy bath mats are a thing of the past with the absorbent surface of Freedom’s Acacia-made Bathmat.

But after work, sometimes he lets down his fur. Off to the Win Win bar - again! But the bartender was very responsible and would not serve him, as Chester didn’t have his age ID card. Lokanta restaurant in Richmond Road is a Friday night fave. He is happy in the car - just hopped in from the Richmond Road Dairy and jumped over onto the back seat.

Late one night he was lying on the pavement outside Little Easy bar. They served him only water (they said!) and took him upstairs to wait for me.

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Cecilia, who lives in Australia, confessed that for the first year we were Facebook friends, she thought Chester was a dog. Sometimes, he even comes when he is called. I do wonder sometimes if he has some species confusion, especially when he decided to chew my shoe. Mind you, when he attacked my leg in the garden I sternly reminded him that I was top dog. "How can she not know," he meowed, "when I wait for hours at the front door till she comes home, sleep on her bed, follow her to the back garden, inside the house, to the front garden, that I’m an alternative dog!"

He also seems a little unclear on gender. When I collected him from the Ponsonby Vet cattery, they said he had, very unusually, formed a strong bond with Hamish, a ginger cat from Mt Eden. Not only did they hang out together, but they cuddled up to each other.

And yes, he’s been neutered. Perhaps as Jo suggested, “He’s lookin’ for love in all the wrong places!” Spoiler alert: once he heard the music of the Auckland Pride Parade, he shot off up the road to participate.

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I’m often anxious about him crossing busy roads, but he came home, licked my hand, PN and shut his eyes, savouring the love. (PAM TARULEVICZ) F

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Shop the collection 24/7 at www.freedomfurniture.co.nz or head into your local Newmarket, Sylvia Park, Westgate, Wairau Park or Albany store.

94 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

At New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty we value our team.

It is these teams that ensure we offer a premium service and achieve exceptional results. Our presence in Auckland has grown significantly and it is our high calibre, locally respected and knowledgeable Sales Associates that have the expertise and connections to achieve the premium result your home deserves. This, combined with our attention to detail in marketing, will lift the profile of your property beyond the competition to expose your property to the market like no other.

Call now to experience the difference.

Parnell +64 9 353 1220 295 Parnell Road

Herne Bay +64 9 360 7777 160 Jervois Road

Waiheke Island +64 9 372 5115 4/5, 151 Oceanview Road

nzsothebysrealty.com AUCKLAND | WARKWORTH | MATAKANA | WAIHEKE ISLAND | BAY OF ISLANDS | ROTORUA | TAUPO | HAWKE’S BAY | WELLINGTON NELSON | MARLBOROUGH | CHRISTCHURCH | QUEENSTOWN | ARROWTOWN | WANAKA

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

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR WITH HARCOURTS Harcourts is thrilled to be a part of Auckland’s Chinese New Year celebrations as a major partner to the iconic Auckland Lantern Festival.

The 2018 Auckland Lantern Festival takes place from Thursday 1 - Sunday 4 March at the Auckland Domain.

Looking for the Ultimate Result? ‘extensive knowledge & passion for property since 1987’

Harcourts CEO Chris Kennedy says the festival is a vibrant, joyful celebration of the city’s diversity and Harcourts is thrilled to be a part of it.

“Celebrating diversity, what makes us unique and what brings us together, is at the core of our Harcourts’ value of ‘People First’. That’s just one reason this partnership is so important to us.”

Highlights of the Auckland Lantern Festival include the spectacular illumination of hundreds of Chinese lanterns, a street full of stalls selling delicious Asian delicacies and crafts and stunning performances of traditional and contemporary Chinese culture.

To help immerse visitors in the festival’s incredible lantern celebration, Harcourts will host a 'Make Your Own Lantern' stand in the Cultural Courtyard, in association with Resene. The whole family can create their own colourful souvenir to take home plus, there will be spot prizes for lantern makers.

A huge Harcourts' lantern will also be on display as part of the festival show, and the company will host an exclusive festival experience for clients in the Harcourts' marquee.

Call Suzie for a confidential chat about your property

Suzie Paine 021 976 008 | suzie.paine@bayleys.co.nz Bayleys Real Estate Limited, Ponsonby Licensed under the REA Act 2008

“Our Auckland, Whangarei and Bay of Islands franchise owners have banded together to sponsor this event and we couldn’t be happier,” says Kennedy, adding that Harcourts is proudly multi-cultural, represented by 2500 sales consultants in New Zealand from a diverse range of backgrounds.

Harcourts is also a major partner for The Auckland Diwali Festival, or festival of light, in October.

Both Auckland Lantern and Diwali festivals are delivered by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED), on behalf of Auckland Council.

photography: ATEED

ATEED General Manager Destination Steve Armitage says ATEED and Auckland Council are delighted to be joined by Harcourts as festival sponsors.

“Commercial partners like Harcourts are an integral part of Auckland’s major cultural festivals. Without their investment and support, we could not deliver events of the size, scale and quality of the Lantern and Diwali festivals, which help make Auckland an exciting and inclusive city where talented people want to stay or move to.” F PN

Service & Experience NEVER WENT OUT OF STYLE

“Don’t be fooled by Jonathan’s quiet manner.

You really feel as though Jonathan is working for you, the vendor.

A refreshing change.” P.H. KPMG Jonathan White AREINZ, Barfoot & Thompson, Grey Lynn, M: 021 320 850 E: j.white@barfoot.co.nz www.facebook.com/jonathan.white.547727

96 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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REAL ESTATE UPDATE: KAREN SPIRES

What's happening in the market?

It's back to business in the Ponsonby and surrounding real estate market.

Following an easing-in activity in the lead up to September’s election last year, transactional volumes are already picking up. We expect this momentum to continue in 2018.

The Ponsonby and surrounds residential market, including Freemans Bay, St Marys Bay, Herne Bay, Westmere, Pt Chevalier and Grey Lynn, remains well positioned in the Auckland market. Over the latter part of 2017, a softening in overall market conditions was evident. Ponsonby and surrounds, however, has experienced a sharp rebound over the December quarter, with sales activity increasing by 29% compared with the September quarter. The local market has therefore performed strongly compared with that of the wider region, which experienced a 13% reduction in sales volumes over the same period.

The slowdown in activity over the second half of 2017 was driven primarily by uncertainty caused by the election and subsequent change of government, as well as the lending restrictions imposed by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and mortgage lenders. Sales activity was down for the calendar year in both the wider Auckland region and the Ponsonby and surrounds suburbs by -26.8% and -22.7% respectively. While sales activity has slowed, the local median finished the 2017 year at $1,522,000, up 2.5% from the prior quarter and up 9% over the year. This reflects the ongoing appeal in the area with buyers continuing to see value in their purchases. We would expect to see sales activity lift further as political issues are clarified and buyers adjust to the new regulatory backdrop.

Proportionate shares of differing price brackets within the Ponsonby and surrounds market over the past three years, show the persistent demand and consequent lift in values. The 2017 year has seen the largest numbers of property transactions occur within the over $1.5 million price bracket. This has seen a steady year-by-year increase since 2015. On the other hand, the number of transactions to take place under $1.5 million has continued to fall.

Value and transaction distributions throughout the Ponsonby and surrounds, illustrates the most active and valuable suburbs within the inner west region. Herne Bay remains the highest value suburb with an average median price of $2,240,000. Sales activity is most prominent within Grey Lynn which serves as a more affordable entry point for buyers. St Marys Bay holds the lowest transaction counts of 26 in this small and tightly held sub-section of the market.

The slowing in sales activity seen over the last year has resulted in a lift in residential inventory levels across the Auckland region. Inventory has seen an overall increase up 34% from the prior year. Weeks to sell inventory has reached 24, which is the highest level recorded since early 2012 and now sits just above the long-term average.

The market outlook remains positive due to a mix of influences.

Auckland reached record migration levels in mid-2017, when the net gain of migrants reached 36,750 causing rapid population expansion. Although net migration is easing, and the Government has indicated their plans to reduce inflows further, numbers are expected to stay at above long-term averages for some time.

Interest rates remain at historically low levels and the Loan to Value ratio (LVR) restrictions imposed by the Reserve Bank have been relaxed slightly as of the 1 January 2018. Banks are now permitted to make 15% of new loans to purchasers who have less than a 20% deposit, up from 10% previously. Investors have also had their equity requirement reduced from 40% to 35% with 5% of lending allowed outside of that. This is expected to increase interest from first home buyers, upgraders and particularly investors.

One of the major policy initiatives being progressed by the new Government is an effective ban on foreign buyers of existing residential property. However, agency feedback suggests that it is likely to have a minimal impact on the Ponsonby and surrounds market due to the dominance of local buyers.

PN Thanks for reading. (KAREN SPIRES) F

All up, the value of Auckland’s residential real estate - including land and buildings is $500 billion - about 50% of the total figure for New Zealand.

Karen Spires AREINZ, M 027 273 8220, E karen.spires@bayleys.co.nz www.karenspires.bayleys.co.nz

+

PONSONBY NEWS APRIL April NEXTfeature: ISSUE

PLANNING SPECIAL EVENTS Engagements - Weddings - Honeymoons - Holidays & Getaways COPY DEADLINE: Tuesday 20 MARCH PUBLISHED: Friday 6 APRIL

98 PONSONBY NEWS+ March 2018

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

COMFORTABLY INEFFICIENT Most businesses keep a tight control on costs - they review budget lines, trim fat, vet expense claims and change suppliers to keep rising costs from eating into, or wiping out, their profits.

The trouble is, people seldom have the same discipline with their personal finances, unless failing to do so runs the risk of an empty belly or an eviction notice.

Once there’s enough money to pay the bills, put food on the table and maybe have the odd treat, most of us take a hands-off approach. The good ol’ Kiwi ‘she’ll be right’ attitude gets applied to our bank accounts.

One of my clients described it as being ‘comfortably inefficient’. He wasn’t spending wildly or sliding precipitously into debt, there were no debt collectors knocking down his door. He was working harder and harder, but the relationship of hard work to progress was out of whack and he couldn’t tell you where he spent all his money.

It’s a common phenomenon - the more we earn, the more we spend. On a national level the stats tell the story. Household net disposable income rose 4.4% to $148 billion in the year to March 2017 - great! That’s an extra $6.2 billion dollars! But at the same time household consumption expenditure rose even more than that - 5.9% or $8.5 billion to $152 billion. So, all the households in the country collectively went backwards by $4 billion last year - and have been going in that direction for several years.

Most people want to earn enough so they ‘don’t have to worry’ about money and about making ends meet - because making every dollar stretch can be exhausting. But as with relationships and jobs and exercise routines - getting ‘comfortable’ can be your enemy.

You don’t pay as much attention or perhaps get a little lazy because things are easy.

The impetus to change and be better is weak because the consequences if you don’t

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

aren’t particularly dire. We delude ourselves that because we pay off our credit cards in full every month we’re doing well. We live in a financial fog because emerging from the money mist involves getting a bit uncomfortable.

But here’s the thing - there’s discomfort in growth, so ask yourself some hard questions.

Are you living pay-day to pay-day? Because the outcome is the same whether you’re living on beans and rice or shopping at Louis Vuitton - that is, you get nowhere.

Do you know where all your money goes? Go over your bank statements and put yourself through your paces to find out. Often people can’t account for where about 15% of their money goes.

Do you have a cash surplus? Work out how much you earn and subtract what your life costs. If there isn’t anything left over, you need to work out why. Are you living larger than you need to be? Do you need to spend less, or earn more to sustain the kind of lifestyle you want to lead? Usually spending less is easier - so focus on reducing the costs you can change.

Most people don’t know what they’re capable of achieving, so they don’t set ambitious goals and they don’t make progress. If that’s you, you’re comfortably inefficient and it PN may be time for you to get uncomfortable. F www.enableme.co.nz

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BOLT OF CLOTH, 2 Osborne Street, Newmarket, T: 09 520 5660, www.boltofcloth.com

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

A very approachable property expert with over 26 years in Auckland Real Estate

2017 TOP Salesperson Barfoot & Thompson, Grey Lynn branch Year ending 31 March 2017

Over 26 years selling Auckland real estate has awarded Repeka a substantial knowledge base and 26 years of shining testimony

027 499 0855 I r.lelaulu@barfoot.co.nz

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ARE YOU SELLING YOUR BIGGEST ASSET? ‘you can’t sell a secret... good property marketing makes a difference every time’ Rates start at $235 + GST. www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE PAST AND PRESENT - A FOCUS ON NEW ZEALAND HERITAGE Paintings by prominent artists with an interest in the protection and restoration of Auckland buildings and beyond.

For years, physical traces of history in Auckland have been scrubbed off like dead skin in a Turkish bath. In a city fixated with development, the few old buildings that are still standing are all the more precious for surviving the purge. Yet destruction continues. Four Auckland -based artists are concerned about the protection and documentation of our New Zealand heritage. This art exhibition highlights our cherished icons such as Rangitoto baches, the Esplanade Hotel, St Marys Bay villas, trams and cottages at Motat, to name a few.

As artist David Barker succinctly puts it, “the images in this exhibition show something of this precarious and often threatened heritage.

These works become part of a valuable inventory, described with great care. In them lies an archival documentation worth retaining as it touches us all, however brief our history.”

These images have emotional resonance, functioning as commentaries on the architecture and craftsmanship of a bygone era. One particularly stunning work, the villa at 28 Cheltenham Road, shows perfectly elegant lattice work and balustrades, set in what would have been pristine gardens with forlorn palm trees rising above the two-storey historic home. Smudged in grey and raw umber, a sense of doom sweeps over the painting as if knowing its pending demise.

Artist John Horner has a long-standing interest in heritage buildings.

Some buildings he has painted have since been destroyed, or left to decline. Since his youth he has seen the demise of harbour ferries, steam trains and trams. Horner observes a recent resurgence of interest in old villas, partly due to the leaky home syndrome.

Murray Dewhurst grew up in a naturally beautiful part of the country, but one with virtually no built heritage. After a move to Auckland he discovered the mighty villa and all that beautiful Victorian decoration and the endless combination of detail that separates each one from the next. “Built by hand by real craftsman using native timber

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Villa, Ponsonby Road and Russell Street including the endangered kauri, they deserve a lot more protection than they currently get.” Dewhurst sketches them before they are demolished for apartments.

Graham Downs paintings are a synthesis of sketchbook drawings and memory expressing the visual poetry that resonates within the bounds of our past and present. The landscape and the heritage that defines us, comforts us, and inspires us to look forward. “To express tranquillity in my own language and let my paintings be a refuge from the everyday tribulations is my raison d'être.”

These talented artists have to captured the essence of our past to preserve it for future generations.

Featured artists: David Barker, John Horner, Graham Downs and Murray Dewhurst. Opens 14 March, 5.30pm. Exhibition runs to 3 April 2018.

Railway Street Gallery, 8 Railway St, Newmarket, www.railwaystreetstudios.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Americana songwriter extraordinaire - Jason Isbell Jason Isbell is coming back and he’s bringing the full band, two recent Grammy Awards and a killer new album with him.

Jason is one of the most well respected and lauded songwriters in Americana and folk music. Off the back of his newest album, The Nashville Sound, he won the Grammy for Best Americana Album and best American Roots Song for 'If We Were Vampires'.

He brings his band The 400 Unit to the Auckland Town Hall on 27 March for what will be one of the best shows of the year for lovers of folk music in its broadest sense. Jason has gone from early days as third songwriter in southern rockers Drive-By Truckers to one of the finest voices and minds on the circuit. His authenticity, his intellect and honesty shine through in his songs, his battle with sobriety is well documented and his songs pick out the parts of society that we all know so well - heartache, beauty, hope, anxiety.

Simply put, Jason has a gift for taking big, messy human experiences and compressing them into badass little combustible packages made of rhythm, melody and madly efficient language. The songs are full of little hooks - it could be guitar line that catches one listener, or a quick lyric that strikes to the heart of another - and an act of transference takes place. The stories Jason tells become our own.

The music is coming not from Jason and the band, but from within us.

A show with Jason and his band is like nothing else. Alongside him is wife and partner in crime, fiddle player Amanda Shires, and a band of players that will remind you what rock ‘n’ roll is. Jason grew up around the corner from Muscle Shoals, a sound that has influenced his writing immensely, and one that can be seen in the new record, on ‘Something to Love’. Jason Isbell fans are ardent, they know the songs intimately, they sing along, they dance, I’d suggest you familiarise yourself with a few tunes, it’ll only add to the experience.

I know I’ll be singing along.

He’ll be supported by the always excellent folk singer-songwriter Nadia Reid, who’s quickly become the name New Zealanders refer to when discussing song writing. A finalist for nearly every New Zealand music award, and for good reason, Nadia will hold her own alongside one of America’s finest. Book your memories now, this is an Americana tour de force not to be missed!

(FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F PN Tickets can be purchased through www.ticketmaster.co.nz

photography: DannyClinch

Jason’s breakthrough, in 2013, was album Southeastern. This saw Jason tackle what happens after you pick yourself after the fall. His storytelling has a depth, brought on by experience and hard slog, allows him to show the battle and conflict that is avoiding falling back into the rut. Associated Press calls him, “The finest songwriter putting pen to paper these days,” and American Songwriter Magazine claim, “There’s no better songwriter on the planet at the moment, no one operating with the same depth, eloquence or feeling.”

In the current political climate there appears to be two types of musicians - those that write music to avoid, to hide and to drift away, and those who speak their mind and call out the issues. The Nashville Sound doesn’t hide, it cuts to the chase and tells it how it is. The album’s first single ‘Hope the High Road’, Jason sings, “Last year was a son of a b*** for nearly everyone we know. But I ain’t fighting with you down in the ditch. I’ll meet you up here on the road.” There’s no sugar coating here, but have no fear there is plenty of subtlety to other songs on the record.

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

World of Music Arts and Dance - WOMAD - 16-18 March, New Plymouth WOMAD 2018 has almost gone back to its roots this year, with many fans commenting that the line-up is closer to that ‘world music’ ideal that the festival was created for.

Performers come from every corner of the globe and bring with them a veritable feast of music, in all genres and all styles.

The internationally established three-day festival of music, arts and dance is known for this diversity, set in the beautiful and unique location of Brooklands Park in New Plymouth, across 16-18 March.

The Bowl of Brooklands is one of those music spaces that you must experience - a natural amphitheatre.

I spoke with Scandinavian duo My Bubba late last year, ahead of their appearance at WOMAD. This captivating contemporary folk duo has won fans the world over with their ‘lullabies from the countryside’. Guðbjörg (Bubba), from Iceland, plays guitar and banjo and My, from Sweden, plays the Norwegian cittra (lap harp) and, against this simple framework, their sweet vocals create an intimate and spellbinding atmosphere. I was lucky enough to see them at Woodford Folk Festival on New Year’s Eve and this taste has whet my appetite for seeing them at WOMAD. My spoke to me about the lap harp she performs on, “I know that there are different versions of this instrument from all over Europe in different folk traditions. The one I play is Norwegian one, and it’s like 100 years old. There are plenty of them around, because no one cares about them, I don’t know anyone else who plays them, people are just finding them in their attics. Their grandmother or great grandmother used to have it. I like how simple it is, I like how anyone can make music on it.”

My Bubba position themselves in the folk world, but My acknowledges it’s still a bit underground in Sweden, similar to here in New Zealand.

“It’s a pretty niche genre, almost the nerdy side, to be into traditional folk music, as it is in many places. Of course, in the last decade, folk music has gotten more popular, so it’s less of an alien thing.” The line-up at WOMAD supports this idea with a great collection of folk acts from all around the world.

moved to Dublin where they turned to busking to make a living. Their electrifying live shows fuse fiery lead lines and phenomenal rhythmic battery with intricate, soaring rock. Indian classical sitar player and multiple time Grammy nominee Anoushka Shankar sits alongside Kiwi classics Dragon and jazz superstar Kamasi Washington.

My personal list of must-sees includes Quebecois group, Le Vent du Nord, who are a driving force in the Quebec scene of progressive folk. They combine virtuosic hurdy-gurdy squeeze box, bouzouki and violin with stamping feet and four part harmonies and you’ll go home with a skip and tap in your walk.

Finally, one other artist I’ll draw your eye to - Tinariwen. From Mali, this is scorching desert blues from Grammy Award winners. Their songs preach peace and rebellion, sharing experiences of struggle and freedom, as well as celebrating the beauty of their homeland.

The beauty of WOMAD is that you don’t need to do any further research into a band than this. You are encouraged to go in openminded and wander the festival grounds and find music as you go!

The New Zealand performers at WOMAD are always a treat and every year the selection highlights some of the best performers of their genres. This year’s headline name is Aldous Harding, fresh off her performance at St Jerome’s Laneway Festival and sold out shows at the Civic Theatre. Auckland’s foot stomping bass clarinet and brass duo Hopetoun Brown will turn many heads, while newcomers The Miltones will bring their take on hard-hitting rock and blues.

Of course WOMAD is more than just music, with a stage dedicated to cooking, manned by the artists themselves, showcasing the food from their home nations. There are workshops, the Living Library and the World of Words. With so much to discover, it’s no surprise people keep returning each year without even looking at the line-up!

PN (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F www.womad.co.nz

photography: Tina Korhonen

Among the line-up of performers from Israel, Mali, Ghana, Mexico and Cuba, to name a few, are some names that will be known to many. Heavy metal inspired Rodrigo y Gabriela burst into mainstream awareness nearly a decade ago for their covers of Metallica and Led Zeppelin songs, and they make their first visit to New Zealand in some time. Having bonded over a love of heavy metal in their home country of Mexico, acoustic guitarists Rodrigo y Gabriela

photography: Terri Loewenthal

photography: Stéphane Najman

Rodrigo y Gabriela

Le Vent du Nord

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My Bubba PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE MAKING HIS MARK When we think of walls we consider them as practical constructions that, in part, form dwellings, enclose and define spaces or create physical barriers to protect what is ours. In the metaphorical sense, walls are something we put up to avoid exposing our emotions.

For Bristol-born decorative artist Ross Lewis, his relationship is far removed from these notions. His ‘love affair’ with wall space began when he was just four years old. He remembers walking along the hallway at his parent’s new home in London with a red crayon in hand. Something compelled him to run it along the full length of the wall leaving behind a thin red line. “I knew it was wrong to draw on the wall, but I found it very exciting,” says Ross.

Since then his art has developed well beyond that of a simple crayon mark, his practice has exploded across walls and ceilings both internationally and in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Soon after Lewis left college he met Nick Eustace - a decorator who, at the time, had been asked to replicate a mural for an architect of a wall mural from the ancient Roman city of Pompeii. Eustace was not a figurative painter, so Ross offered to help by painting the hanging heads and griffins. This project marked the beginning of a work partnership that would last 17 years until Eustace’s untimely passing in 2001.

Ross realised he could make a living from his brushes, so he taught himself how to wood-grain and marble and paint Trompe-l'œil; a technique that uses realistic imagery to create three-dimensional optical illusions and is often used in murals to represent a window, door or hallway to suggest a larger space.

@ OREXART

Vonney Ball Ceramics 8 - 29 March Opening: 8 March 6-8pm ‘Vonney Ball: Ceramics’ - Book launch and exhibition Orexart in Arch Hill, Auckland will host a book launch and exhibition of ceramics by Vonney Ball. The richly illustrated book, Vonney Ball: Ceramics, traces the creative influences on Ball’s unique 40-year practice, in the UK and New Zealand.

Ball’s output reflects a sound education in English ceramics design, a singularity of purpose and a drive to keep making work. Twenty years on from her arrival in New Zealand, her work connects cultural experiences from opposite ends of the earth.

In conjunction with the book launch, Orexart presents a survey exhibition (and work for sale) that captures the essence of Ball’s practice as a ceramic slip-caster and designermaker. It will include pieces from her time at Middlesex Polytechnic, London, in the 1980s, where she adapted industrial methods to produce one-off or small batch works, resulting in innovative pieces that may best be described as ‘classically inspired shapes with a contemporary twist’. F PN Please contact rex@orexart.co.nz for details.

OREXART, 15 Putiki Street, Arch Hill, T: 09 378 0588, www.orexart.co.nz

His illustrious career has seen him create works for entrepreneur Simon Cowell, actor and director Alan Rickman, The Sir John Soanne Museum in London and international brands Elizabeth Arden, Hilton Hotels, and American Airlines.

Ross immigrated to Aotearoa New Zealand in the late 1990s and settled in Grey Lynn.

He has painted the walls of 'Gypsy Tea Room', commissioned in 2003 by Tuscia Design.

In 2013 he created the murals, paint finishes and signage for Mekong Baby and more recently the ceiling of Chapel Bar. Fashioned on Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, it took eight weeks to complete.

“Paintings are made by using one’s body and mind,” says Ross, “An artist should always embrace one’s physicality of the act, be it tiny detail or large gestural marks and not be afraid to let it show. Painting on walls and in spaces shows real commitment from the client and the artist. An artist’s function is to produce and show work that excites and reflects what living in a community means to that person; almost as a condiment to bring PN in life’s experiences, channel them into works that others may enjoy.” (JO BARRETT) F www.rosslewis.work/resume-ross-lewis

Harakeke Willow Pattern

Vonney Ball 8 - 29 March 2018 Opening Thursday 8 March 6-8pm 15 putiki street, arch hill, auckland, orex@xtra.co.nz tue - fri 11am - 5pm, sat 11am - 3pm +649 378 0588 The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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ARTS + CULTURE @ MASTERWORKS Let’s Get Together Until 22 March

‘Let’s Get Together’ opened last month and continues for three more weeks to show work from across a range of ceramic, glass, jewellery and textile artists.

This show celebrates new works fresh from the kilns, work-benches, glory holes, gas torching, grinding, welding, buffing, weaving and countless other skills of our endlessly evolving artists.

MASTERWORKS GALLERY, 71 Upper Queen Street, Christine Thacker, Face Jug, ceramic T: 09 373 5446, www. masterworksgallery.co.nz

@ ON2CANVAS Have you got a ‘special photo’ - one that caught your attention?

Perhaps it's on your phone or you recently found it, torn and tattered in an old shoe box and you know you want to do something with it but not sure how?

Call in to see the team at on2canvas. They are your local experts in large format digital printing.

They love creating digital art for their customers and with over 14 years in the business they know what they are doing. They can scan old photographs or help you with design/artwork if need be. For something fun they can add a pop art effect or create a modern layout.

When it comes to sizes they will let you know the largest size you can print to - up to 2.5m x 1m. They work with customised frames to either fit the photo or the space you wish to hang them in. In the past they've created round frames and canvases that wraparound corners... they love new ideas.

Your photographs can be printed on a variety of materials such as photographic paper, canvas and even Belgian linen and the team at on2canvas will advise on the best framing options to suit you and your budget.

Mention this article in the Ponsonby News and they will give you 15% discount off your order.

ON2CANVAS, 12 Albany Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 376 8065, M: 021 465 465, info@on2canvas.co.nz, www.on2canvas.co.nz

Stephen Bradbourne, Glass Cups, rolled cane technique

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE

UPTOWN ART SCENE Sorawit Songsataya won the National Contemporary Art Award 2016 and is the current resident at McCahon House.

He has created a multifaceted exhibition at Artspace in K’Road, called Starling, where his soft sculpture, video and written components interact with a public programme to create an active involvement with the viewer.

The large red, flayed felt lozenges that lounge around the carpet mimic red blood cells, positioning me inside a body, like the shrunken scientists in the 1966 movie Fantastic Voyage. From each, drapes a belt of DNA wispily woven in coloured felt. Like beanbags waiting an audience, these red sculptures face a giant curved screen, on which a series of oceanscapes play. Through a doorway, tables are set out with materials and instructions for Songsataya’s felt-making classes.

The installation has a warm, interior feel, where liquids are combining: the blood cells, the ocean, the foamy wisps of felt.

features four US artists, all presenting stimulating work in the extended painting field.

Josef Strau’s work using tin plate, wire, and paint on canvas feels like a soft body encased in enamelled jewellery. The tin wrinkles as it forms a skin over the canvas, yet also forms an armour from which tender colours peek through holes.

A large, bright watercolour portrait by Jennifer McCamley counterpoints the pin-filled assemblages of Robert Bittenbender; the former flat and brilliant, the latter raucously tactile.

Alongside some of her affectionate erotic works, Ellen Cantor’s angry Moby Dick plunges after a tiny pink ship. One can’t help wondering the metaphors playing out under the glow of a giant moon.

PN WILL PAYNT, STUDIO ART SUPPLIES F

Role Models is a group show curated by US-based New Zealander Rob McKenzie for Hopkinson Mossman in Putiki Street. The exhibition

Ellen Cantor, Moby Dick, Hopkinson Mossman

Sorawit Songsataya, Love Birds & Four Chambers, Artspace The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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OUT + ABOUT JUNK & DISORDERLY New Zealand Country Manager for Xero, Craig Hudson invited us for drinks at Ponsonby Central to introduce us to a pop-up gallery to promote Junk & Disorderly. treasures from New Zealand's past, including the first pinball machine in the world to have two levels. Every object has a story behind it and the exhibition was open to the public for a week." www.junkndisorderly.co.nz, www.xero.com

photography: Martin Leach

As Craig explains, "For the pinball wizards among you and those with a taste for nostalgia, we've plumped for something a little different when it comes to the setting. We've worked with one of our customers Junk & Disorderly to put on a pop-up gallery, packed with unexpected

L to R: Craig Hudson with Junk & Disorderly owners Nicole & Richard Stewart

SHOP/SLOW Last month 10 designers opened Shop/Slow, a pop-up store at Ponsonby Central, which ran for a week. quality products from the hands of their makers supporting local labels that produce utilising sustainable and ethical practices." www.juliamarinjewellery.com www.jasonlingard.com

photography: Jo Barrett

As Julia Marin tells us, "Shop/Slow is our natural response to modern day, over-consumption and fast fashion. As a group of emerging New Zealand fashion designers, we want to encourage consumers to buy

Jewellery designer Julia Marin & fashion designer Jason Lingard

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

OUT + ABOUT

photography: Martin Leach

Sophie, Judy & Vanessa

Cara, Vanessa & Martin Leach

Sonia Watts, Founder of French Country Collections with Melissa, store manager

FRENCH COUNTRY COLLECTIONS AUTUMN/WINTER LAUNCH - THURSDAY 15 FEBRUARY

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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OUT + ABOUT

Ready to walk the strip

Charlie Peters

Mark Fisher

Barbara Grace

A Green Party supporter

Jernej Medved, Gary Edwards & Eric Harris

Ross Thorby & Gary Edwards

Rodger Short

photography: Martin Leach

Floats waiting for the start

AUCKLAND PRIDE PARADE 2018, PONSONBY - SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

OUT + ABOUT

Suffragettes

Drag queens

Rainbow families

Rainbow families

NZ Police

photography: Martin Leach

Tamati Coffey & Labour Party

Royal NZ Navy

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Fly over for Pride

Mark Easthope

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OUT + ABOUT

Asexual NZ

Amnesty International

Brooke & Kate Ben, Aaron, Rachelle & Avalon

Auckland Roller Derby

Body Positive Float

Reverant Diana Rattray and Fiona Miles

photography: Clare Gemima

ANZ Float

Richard Ellwood with Declan

Beautiful PM Jacinda Ardern

Opening drag queens

AUCKLAND PRIDE PARADE 2018, PONSONBY - SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

OUT + ABOUT

Tower Insurance Float

The Women's Book Shop

Victoria & Sinead got married during the Parade

Wedding Squad

Body Positive Float

Here come the brides

Mahuika Godess Of Fire

photography: Clare Gemima

NZ Prostitutes Collective

Peter & Maria

Language Matters Float

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS

What your stars hold for March ♓ Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March

It’s the same old scenario with you this month. You’ve taken on more than you can handle. Concentrate on the present and accomplish or daydream and lose focus.

♈ Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April

You know it's really hard being satisfied by what you’ve got but it’s about time you were.

Just take it slowly and you’ll learn to appreciate what you do have.

♉ Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May

You don’t like to change much but once you do it can fire you up. Sometimes you wonder what all the fuss is about and wished you had done it sooner.

♊

Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June Just be open so that people know where they stand. You’ve never been the one to come forward and show off, so why not do it now and be on show!

♋

Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July You know how other people comment on what’s clearly none of their business. Well, this month you must ignore anything you hear or you’ll say or do something that could potentially be life changing.

♌

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August Someone close to you has begun to act a bit weird this month and you can’t quite work out what’s going on. You just have to be there and try and adapt if anything changes.

♍ Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September

Just adapt to the movement of life going on around you and you might discover the slice of peace in life that you’re after. If you’re not satisfied then that’s the step you might need to learn.

♎ Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October

Don’t bow to pressure and rush anything that you’re working on. It may be taking some time but the outcome will be worth the wait.

♏ Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November

You seem to have something on your mind and for some reason you feel the need to blurt it out. However, it's best not to create any conflict, so think it through before anything is said.

♐

Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December You have quite a lot of pent up emotion that needs to be released and you’re looking for an outlet. The best place for you to discharge the feelings should be in the direction of the one you’re having a relationship with.

♑ Capricorn (the Goat): 23 December - 20 January

Don’t rush into anything you’re not comfortable with this month. Make sure you have all the tools available before you act on any feelings you might be having regarding a work colleague.

♒ Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February

You have always liked the feeling of being on the edge and this month is no different as it makes you feel very alive. You need to communicate how you are feeling though because the ledge you are sitting on can be precarious.

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

Rugs Direct, 108 Carlton Gore Road

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

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Ponsonby News is published on the first Friday of each month excluding January.

Copies go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets.

The issue is also published on our website www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

MONTHLY

CAR PARKING available...

Vermont Street, Ponsonby $70 weekly + gst

email: columba@cda.org.nz

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Design Warehouse introduces Adley by Gommaire: outdoor furniture that is organic, elegant, and contemporary.

Suppliers of high-end outdoor furniture at wholesale prices to the public & trade for over 25 years.

designwarehouse.co.nz / sales@designwarehouse.co.nz / 0800 111 112 137 - 147 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland / Open Daily 9:30am - 5:30pm