PONSONBY NEWS - MAY'19

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PUBLISHED FRIDAY, 3 MAY 2019

Established: OCTOBER 1989 – CELEBRATING 29 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

MAY 2019

DIZENGOFF...

A PONSONBY INSTITUTION CELEBRATES ITS QUARTER CENTURY - P50 RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS - P45 ponsonbynews.co.nz

Still selling the City of Sails. In fair winds and foul.

It hasn’t been all plain sailing for Auckland real estate agents lately.

Sure, I’m working harder to sell houses but that just makes the job more

(Not that we’re asking for sympathy. We had a good run.)

rewarding.

If I was just a fair-weather sailor, I’d probably give real estate a wide

The best agents, like the best sailors, don’t quit when the winds pick up.

berth for now. “The market’s slowed... The rates have tightened. (Insert

They grind like hell, get up on their foils and retain the Auld Mug!

excuse here)” Perhaps I’m going overboard on this sailing metaphor.. if you’d like to But by plotting a steady course, trimming the sails and cruising right

talk real estate in a headwind, or just sailing, call. Matt O’Brien

through the bad weather, my sales figures have remained practically unchanged.

Matt O’Brien 021 687 866 OR look me up on Facebook: Matt O’Brien Residential Sales

Matt has sold the most houses in Grey Lynn over the last 2 years out of all agents from all companies. - source Homes.co.nz

CHRIS SOLD

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

Westmere 23 Tirotai Crescent

Freemans Bay 7/101 College Hill

Freemans Bay 13 Picton Street - Mar 2019 SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Herne Bay 22 Wharf Road - Mar 2019 SOLD

Herne Bay 4/151 Jervois Road - Feb 2019 SOLD

Grey Lynn 85 Richmond Road - Mar 2019

Grey Lynn 4 Baildon Road - Feb 2019

SOLD

SOLD

Westmere 42 Dorset Street - Dec 2018 SOLD

Grey Lynn 64 Mackelvie Street - Nov 2018

SOLD

Herne Bay 16 Sentinel Road - Nov 2018

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

ALTOGETHER BETTER

Westmere 40 Warwick Avenue - Dec 2018

St Marys Bay 62 Hackett Street - Oct 2018

Chris Batchelor 021 217 7026 | chris.batchelor@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Res ide ntia l / Comme rc i al / Rural / Prope rt y Se rvi ce s

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Augustus Cocktail

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH

P36: Mother's Day - Sunday 12 May: Since our Prime Minister gave birth to baby Neve, motherhood has been thrust into the public eye in a way it never has before; P45: With so many great cafes, restaurants and bars in Ponsonby and the surrounding suburbs, our readers are spoilt for choice.

FROM THE EDITOR DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD JOHN ELLIOTT: PONSONBY'S HEART & SOUL MIKE LEE, COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF PREDICT WEATHER.COM U3A PONSONBY NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP MOTHER'S DAY - SUNDAY 12 MAY

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LIVING, THINKING & BEING

087 091 094 098 114 117 122

JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: CONNOR CRAWFORD

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS COVER STORY - DIZENGOFF VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL EAT DRINK & BE MERRY TRAVEL BREAKS FASHION & STYLE

FUTURE GENERATION PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS PONSONBY PETS HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN ARTS + CULTURE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY

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

MARTIN LEACH; M: 021 771 147; E: martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz JAY PLATT; M: 021 771 146; E: jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz ANDREA KAHUKIWA; M: 021 689 688; E: andrea@ponsonbynews.co.nz MELISSA PAYNTER; M: 027 938 4111; E: melissapaynter@me.com GWYNNE DAVENPORT; M: 021 150 4095; E: gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT; M: 021 134 4101; E: finn.huia@gmail.com JOHN ELLIOTT; M: 021 879 054; E: johnelliott38@outlook.com DEIRDRE THURSTON ARNA MARTIN; E: arna@cocodesign.co.nz

@ponsonbynews @Ponsonby_News @ponsonbynews

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS: WITHIN NEW ZEALAND $49. BY CHEQUE OR POSTAL ORDER IN NZ$. NO CREDIT CARDS. PLEASE NOTE: we do not hold back issues of Ponsonby News. Our archive is all online as a low resolution pdf or from August 2010, as a high resolution E-mag - visit www.ponsonbynews.co.nz The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechaal, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies and manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.

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69,000 readers per month (Nielsen Media), 17,000 copies distributed to homes and businesses in... Arch Hill, Ponsonby, Cox’s Bay, Freemans Bay, Herne Bay, Grey Lynn, St Mary’s Bay, West Lynn and Westmere. Plus selected businesses in Britomart, High Street, CBD, Kingsland, Mt Eden, Newmarket, Newton + Parnell.

4 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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For a free, no obligation market appraisal of your home give Karen a call today.

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Residential / Commerci al / Ru ral / Property S e rvice s BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

LETTERS + EMAILS ROY SMITH, FREEMANS BAY I am writing to enquire about the whereabouts and well being of an elderly gentleman called Roy Smith. Roy is a dear old chap, distinguishable in his Albert Tatlock cloth cap.

Roy lives, or was living, in a pensioner flat just off Wood Street and he walked to and from the Ponsonby shops past our house in Arthur Street numerous times in the day.

His routine was to buy a paper at Paper Plus and sit in the seat on the footpath more or less outside that establishment. When I enquired at Paper Plus as to his whereabouts, they said, “Everyone is asking that!” Roy is not a remarkable man but he is certainly noticeable by his absence.

Simon Kember, Freemans Bay FAMILIAR FACES @ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET I recently met the cannabis/hemp man who writes a column in PN. We met at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market. He was lovely to chat with. Very knowledgeable and passionate and authentic. I know it’s a divisive subject but that’s good. Sparks debate and reeducation of our, sometimes, ‘wrong’ beliefs/facts. Perfect for a community mag like PN. I learned something today from him I thought I already knew but, actually, only had ‘assumed' knowledge. My friend who was with me has joined the foundation, as have I. I bought some of his hemp hearts - perfect for my morning smoothie, vegan patties from the couple featured in this month’s mag. Kombucha from another woman there. Best kombucha ever. Great ‘community’ market and shows PN works!

Jane Smith, Freemans Bay MIKE LEE'S CRITICISM OF AT'S PLANS FOR SAFER SPEEDS We don't want traffic sewers. I was surprised and disappointed in your April issue by Councillor Mike Lee's criticism of AT's plans for safer speeds. Most great cities of the world have 30km/h in their CBD because they know how important it is to prioritise safety.

Only with safe speeds can streets become truly vibrant, attractive and prosperous.

That's why cities are moving away from using streets as traffic sewers for moving cars.

Safer traffic speeds enable more people to choose to walk or cycle rather than taking the car. Safer traffic speeds make public transport more accessible and transport in general more equitable. A 30km/h speed limit means e-scooters and cyclists can share the road with cars, improving safety for pedestrians on footpaths.

Safer speeds help combat obesity, climate change, car dependency, traffic congestion and are proven to reduce road casualties. I commend AT for their leadership.

Bevan Woodward, by email MIKE LEE RESPONDS: I have backed Bevan Woodward in many a scrap in his long campaign for cycling on the Harbour Bridge. Especially back in the days when cycling wasn’t as fashionable, when Bevan had few friends in the corridors of power. Therefore, I was rather surprised he has chosen to distort the meaning of my recent article on AT’s plans to slow central city traffic down even further than it is now.

As the saying goes, 'no good turn goes unpunished’.

My column for April cited numerous road accidents where speed was NOT the critical factor and reported that I had made several requests to AT management to provide me with the safety evidence justifying their plans - and that they failed to provide that information.

My article made it clear I support lowering road speeds in suburban streets with lots of people about, but not on the main arterials - without good evidence. But I suspect that as a more than passionate cyclist, Bevan might have taken offence at my call for making cheaper and better public transport a much more important priority than AT’s present costly cycleway obsession. West Lynn still remains an unsafe debacle. Speaking of safety, is Bevan really calling for e-scooters on our roads?

Perhaps most disappointing of all is his reference to 'traffic sewers’, equating traffic, that is ordinary law-abiding Aucklanders in their vehicles, with what is meant to go in sewers.

Disappointing but sadly revealing of a mindset in which a self-righteous zealotry goes hand-in-hand with an obsessive aversion to cars and the people who have to use them.

Traffic congestion is a growing problem in central Auckland. Slowing speeds down across the board will just make things worse.

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HOW CANNABIS WORKS I am sitting here in Herne Bay with my glass of chardonnay, reading the Ponsonby News, and I've just found your article on cannabis.

It was quite complicated but worth the effort. The information seems very important and the word needs to get out. Good on you for publishing this stuff as it seems much more helpful than what I see in the mainstream media.

I look forward to reading more about it.

Vicky Mair, Herne Bay WHAT AUCKLAND TRANSPORT ISN'T TELLING YOU ABOUT ROAD SAFETY In response to the April editorial What Auckland Transport Isn't Telling You About Road Safety, saying speed doesn't kill. It's young and inebriated drivers that do: The article implies that the city centre is not residential and many of you reading this might only think of the city as the CBD. In reality, the city centre is New Zealand’s largest residential neighbourhood with over 57,000 people living within the motorway ring.

The Auckland City Centre Residents’ Group, in support of lower speeds for our neighbourhood, looks to the people of South Australia, where fatal crashes dropped by 37% when its default urban speed limit was reduced.

Or to Londoners, who saw a 6% reduction in vulnerable road user trauma when the city introduced a 32km/h speed limit on a third of its streets. Or to the residents of Christchurch, where injuries due to road accidents have been cut by a quarter after the speed limit in the city centre was reduced to 30km/h.

Or, for that matter, anyone who frequents Queen Street, which adopted a 30km/h speed limit in 2008. Road deaths and injuries dropped there by 36%.

The fact of the matter is that NZTA has identified every major city centre arterial road in their top 10% of most dangerous roads in New Zealand.

Reduced road speeds have been shown to save lives everywhere they are introduced, and they will do so here in Tamaki Makaurau. The Auckland City Centre Residents' Group, the voice of the people that call the city centre home, supports Auckland Transport's safer speeds initiative.

In conjunction with safer road design and a growing emphasis on public and active transport modes, we look forward to the contribution it will make to a safer and more liveable Auckland.

Emily Reeves, Deputy Chair, Auckland City Centre Residents' Group AT DOESN’T REALLY SEEM TO CARE ABOUT SAFETY Totally agree with all he said! I co-own a salon in West Lynn and we are extremely worried about ATs plans. Businesses can’t sustain more disruption and chaos.

AT doesn’t really seem to care about safety. I messaged them early in the year about the ‘speed bumps’ they put in on many side streets off Ponsonby Road.

Many pedestrians just walk out without looking, as it appears it’s the footpath, whereas they are crossing the road. It’s very dangerous. They gave me a case number. I followed up twice and had no response.

The pedestrian crossings on Franklin Road are very poorly marked and dangerous.

Someone will get run over soon as they aren’t clear to cars.

Please keep up your fight against the tyranny and stupidity of AT and their reckless spending. Jason Pearce, by email HELICOPTERS ON HERNE BAY BEACH - WTF! There are some strange things happening in the world in the 21st Century. Many of them outside our sphere of influence (including Trump), but here, right on our local beaches, one of our new rich list 1%ers wants to land and take off in his helicopter whenever he chooses. We call on the council to reign him in.

Ms Marjorie T (surname withheld by request)

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FROM THE EDITOR Photography: Connor Crawford

The Ponsonby News team L to R: Andrea Kahukiwa, Jay Platt, Martin Leach, Melissa Paynter and Gwynne Davenport

Amongst all the religious denominations in Greater Ponsonby, there was a common sense of humanity and love for people which shone through from every church.

All expressed their horror and disgust at the Christchurch massacre and all congregations have been dealing with the after effects and New Zealand’s loss of innocence.

Next month, we will talk to those who we could not fit in to the May issue, including Pacifica churches, the Catholic Church and the Jewish Synagogue. Our colleague John Elliott welcomes any comments about churches in our readership area. Email johnelliott38@ outlook.com - P16.

So far, only one candidate has put her name forward for the Waitemata Council seat. Our good friend and chairperson of the Waitemata Local Board, Pippa Coom. Our columnist John Elliott is asking locals to question all candidates but above all to vote - P24.

Traditional New Zealand rugby clubs, like Ponsonby, which has produced a number of All Blacks over the years, is encouraging the growth of women’s rugby. Young women in our readership area can now join the Fillies and aspire to join a future Black Ferns team and win a gold medal just like the boys - P25.

This month, we talked to some of the pupils at Ponsonby Intermediate School about voting. Their very mature thoughts are set out and indicate that democracy’s future is assured - P32.

Well-known identities Gerry Hill and Sally James talk to Kerry Lee this month about some of Ponsonby’s history. Gerry, who is not in the best of health, is still keen to wax lyrical about his beloved Ponsonby - P34.

Don’t forget Mother’s Day on Sunday 12 May - you owe it to her! This issue we’ve included some ways to show your mum you care - P36.

This is a good time to remind our readers to stay local and support our local businesses.

You may be surprised to know that there are now in excess of 250 cafes, bars and restaurants in Greater Ponsonby. Every month a new place pops up - P45.

This month we congratulate an iconic local cafe. Dizengoff is celebrating its quarter century on 25 years serving Ponsonby - P50. (MARTIN LEACH) F PN

REPUTATION - ENTHUSIASM INTEGRIT Y - SUPPORT - FRIENDSHIP

M AT T & RYA N N 1 I N G R E Y LY N N*

“Matt and Ryan’s reputation preceded them when we decided to engage them to sell our property. Throughout the entire process we felt completely appraised of the progress.

Due to the current market the property took longer than we had anticipated to sell, not once did the boys falter in their continued support and enthusiasm.

We appreciated their honesty, integrity, and friendship throughout this process.”

Marko & Lindy - Westmere

Matt O’Rourke 021 375 909

Ryan Harding 021 621 580

m.orourke@barfoot.co.nz

r.harding@barfoot.co.nz

barfoot.co.nz

* G r e y Ly n n b r a n c h - y e a r e n d i n g 3 1 M a r c h 2 0 1 8

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW Francesca Woods is a lawyer and co-founder of Franjo’s Kitchen. She co-founded the business in Melbourne but returned to New Zealand last year and runs the business from New Zealand.

Fran also works as a corporate lawyer and busy mum of two to Phoebe (5) and Margot (3).

Where do you live?

We live in West Lynn at the intersection between Grey Lynn and Westmere. We love the sense of community, being close to the water and Ponsonby and the West Lynn shops.

Tell us about your company?

I started Franjo's Kitchen in Melbourne after having my first baby, Phoebe. Phoebe was struggling to gain weight and I was under pressure to introduce formula. I Googled 'how to make more breastmilk' and came across the concept of galactagogues - foods that can help increase breast milk supply. I started making lactation biscuits at home. A few weeks later I met my business partner, Jo, a practising naturopath. I had the light bulb moment. Using her skills as a naturopath, Jo could adapt the basic recipe I was using to create a naturopath-formulated lactation biscuit. I could see the demand in the market and we went from there!

I work from my home in West Lynn but the business is still based in Melbourne.

Why did you settle back in Auckland?

We had nearly 10 years in Melbourne and absolutely loved it, but once our children came along we felt the pull back to New Zealand.

Neither my husband nor I were originally from Auckland but most of my family have now settled here and we have a broad friend network here. Combined with the amazing proximity to Waiheke Island (where we have a family holiday home) and the rest of the North Island, it felt like the best choice for us to ease our way back into New Zealand.

What was your childhood like?

I grew up in Christchurch on a lifestyle block. With my siblings much older than me, I spent most of my time rearing chickens, guinea pigs, puppies and kittens. A very different life to the urban one I am giving my children!

Bucket list?

Lots and lots of travel and one day not working so hard and living out of the city - hopefully on Waiheke.

The most Kiwi thing about you?

I rarely wear shoes in the summer!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

With a pool! After such a hot summer it's all I can think about!

Hopefully living a pretty similar life to now with a few more wrinkles, experiences and upgrades.

What job would you do other than your own?

I love what I do. I split my time between Franjo's and my other business - an in-house legal consultancy specialising in retail.

I am very lucky to be able to work from home around my children.

I wouldn't change a thing.

Like to be remembered how?

As someone who was kind, funny and good to her friends and family.

What do you love most about your age?

I reckon mid-30s is a pretty sweet spot. Friendships are solid and there for the right reasons. Having had my children a little younger, I now have some pretty cool sidekicks and I am still young enough to know how to party.

12 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

Something that you disapprove of?

Lack of empathy.

What do you think happens when we die?

I'd like to think there is an afterlife where our souls can stay connected.

Ever seen a ghost?

Yes - as a child with my grandmother. There was a small boy in our kitchen. We later found out a child had died who had been living at our house prior to us. I also have 'night terrors' and sometimes think they are ghosts.

Give your teenaged self some advice?

Don't drink all those RTD's in Nelson at age 14. It doesn't end well.

Favourite item of clothing?

Shamefully, active wear.

Favourite time of the day?

Between my first coffee of the day and when the kids are in bed and I finally sit down.

Greatest fear?

I suffer from anxiety, so depends on the time of the day. I am always dreaming up crazy scenarios.

Your favourite hero of fiction?

I just read Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine and reckon she is a pretty epic survivor.

What cliché do you hate?

Unfortunately I spend too much time talking in cliches myself so I am not one to judge.

Greatest weakness/indulgence?

Wine.

A handshake or a hug person?

Hugs!

Your comfort food?

PN Slow-cooked meat and pasta. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) F www.davidhartnell.com PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

BLAIR HADDOW “Loving, living and selling greater Ponsonby” Blair Haddow 021 544 555 blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/blair-haddow BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Grey Lynn, 12 Stanmore Road

Grey Lynn, 52 Sussex Street

Grey Lynn, 3 Tay Street

Westmere, 46 Wellpark Avenue

Grey Lynn, 11 Crummer Road

Freemans Bay, 36 Arthur Street

Auckland Central, 901/26 Poynton Terrace

.!5ŏ 5**, 14 Crummer Road

Grey Lynn, 5 Schofield Street

A LT O G E T H E R B E T T E R

Re s i d e n t i a l / Co m m e rc i a l / R u ra l / P ro p e r t y S e r v i ce s

PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT

The condition of Western Springs Te Wai Orea Lakeside Park has been a topic of concern raised by Ponsonby News correspondents and directly with the local board.

The park is much loved by Aucklanders for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. The area is significant for both its ecosystem and ecological diversity. Species that call the lakeside park home include native birds and an endangered native moss.

Last year I had the pleasure of meeting Peter Hudders, one of the original park designers, who told me the tree planting around the periphery of the park was intended to provide glances across to the lake like a woman’s skirt revealing a hint of petticoat but not too much!

Peter, who is now in his 80s, also explained that there had been pressure on the designers at the time to fence off the lake, so they created a shallow edge instead.

Last year the local board released the draft Western Springs Lakeside Te Wai Orea Park Development Plan for public feedback. The plan outlines our vision for the park which includes improved water quality in the lake and streams, connecting the surrounding areas via paths, and an upgraded playground.

All of the ecology and wildlife at the park will benefit from improved water quality. Some of the actions we are looking at are managing the high nutrient levels, more planting around the lake edge, controlling the runoff and encouraging people not to feed birds in the lake.

Options for visitors to be able to buy bird seed from, for instance, the zoo kiosk, will be investigated.

In the meantime, a significant amount of work is being undertaken at the park. Auckland Council’s contractors have carried out a lot of maintenance work like clearing hazardous, large, fallen tree branches. The rubbish bins and handrails around the park have also been newly painted and the playground toilets have re-opened.

In addition to this, the lake’s water quality is being closely monitored

by Auckland Council’s Wai Ora-Healthy Waterways team. They’re regularly removing rubbish and tree branches from the lake and clearing out the dams weekly. The results of their water monitoring work will be used to make future decisions about water quality management.

The park is audited weekly and contractors are currently complying with contract specifications.The amount of bird poo on the paths is an on-going issue following an explosion in geese numbers.

Contractors have been asked to increase cleaning of a section of path that is bombarded by geese, which is being waterblasted daily when required. Options for managing the population are currently being reviewed.

Waitemata Local Board oversees more than 80 parks and reserves in the Waitemata area, so we want them all to be well maintained to PN a high standard for everyone to enjoy. (PIPPA COOM) F Contact Pippa Coom, Chair of Waitamata Local Board, pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, www.facebook.com/waitemata

photography: Cathy Casey

Our focus is on improving the existing state of the park to maximise the benefits it provides without making major changes. All the feedback has been taken into consideration in finalising the plan. For example, we heard from St Lukes Environmental Protection Society

that the rare rock forest - the result of volcanic eruptions - needs to be enhanced and protected. We’re expecting the final plan to be approved at a board meeting shortly.

Western Springs Lakeside Park

14 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

GREY LYNN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION UPDATE Businesses hate uncertainty, so it’s good to see the CGT off the table, at least for the time we have our MP Jacinta Ardern leading the Coalition Government.

At the local level, the uncertainty associated with urban redevelopment is presenting its own challenges as was evident from the literal onesided debate at St Helier’s given the well-documented no-show from Auckland Transport (AT).

Compounding things is that even with unconstrained budgets the big issue, as we are hearing from downtown businesses, relates to the length of the associated disruption and the lack of economic redress being afforded to smaller businesses.

From GLBA’s perspective we cannot understand what AT’s logic is in seeking to ignite another flash point without first addressing the very critical issues it has created and needs to resolve in our very own West Lynn village.

While the council does proactively address the concerns of some large businesses, our understanding is that it is the smaller businesses which have suffered, with all of their claims in regards to this disruption being rejected by AT.

It is now almost two years since the redevelopment was started in West Lynn, in fact we still have the orange grate over an open drain on Richmond Road to prove the disastrous nature of the previous project – a visible legacy to all that was wrong with the project (and which of course is now gathering plenty of weeds).

Without this economic redress it is incumbent that when embarking on these projects, that AT is open and very clear in their communications and, above all, they minimise disruption to businesses.

But what we do know is that it is absolutely critical to keep an open line of dialogue with AT – if we can’t have free and frank discussions on issues then how are we ever going to affect real change within our communities?

It is fair to say that businesses in Grey Lynn are somewhat agnostic in that we believe all modes of transport should have equally safe access to our business district. For us the key question is how we do this without compromising car parking which is the life blood of these smaller villages.

Given this fact, our businesses cannot wait five to 10 years for a comprehensive cycling network to be developed.

There needs to be a systematic plan, and that plan needs to be communicated transparently to everyone so we know what the big picture looks like and from which real consultation can take place.

A further point of concern is the time it takes for any redevelopment to occur, and while Franklin Road is a particularly good example of what can be achieved with a substantial budget attached, most projects are not going to have the resources thrown at them that this route has.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

What is interesting is that we have been told there is no economic analysis of these projects’ impact on businesses nor any before or after studies as to whether the projects are delivering value.

What we do know for a fact is that the aborted GreyLynn/West Lynn project has stripped value out of the area both from a community and business perspective.

What we don’t know is whether the concrete greening of the likes of Mount Albert village has delivered value because again this doesn’t seem to be fundamental to the project.

We merely make these points because our desire is to see a very Grey Lynn-centric solution to the proposed redevelopment of West Lynn village and the surrounding area.

On a much brighter note, the GLBA is actively delivering on the Grey Lynn project with a number of initiatives about to get underway and on that note we are pleased to announce the appointment of a communications professional who will be assisting us in ensuring we deliver some of our key objectives.

Our clear aspiration is to encourage the 3000 businesses that operate within district 1021 to join the GLBA and as such it is incumbent on us to show how doing so creates value for them – so PN watch this space. F www.glba.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ May

15

JOHN ELLIOTT: PONSONBY'S HEART & SOUL

Church wellbeing in New Zealand - Part 1 Most surveys of church attendance in Western countries show a steady decline over the last 100 years.

Dr Peter Brierley, who led the English Church Attendance Survey, went so far as to say that their recent survey, “shows a haemorrhage akin to a burst artery. The country is littered with people who used to go to church but no longer do. We could well bleed to death. At the present rate of change we are one generation away from extinction.”

New Zealanders, too, have moved away from church attendance, but after talking to half a dozen Ponsonby church leaders, I am not as pessimistic about the future as Brierley.

Still, these are changing and challenging times, and our churches are adapting.

Some of the negative influences on attendance include church abuse, perceived hypocrisy, authoritarianism, women’s issues, exclusivity, religious wars and talk of hell and damnation.

Homosexuality has been a huge issue in most churches and many, including establishment churches, will still not marry gay couples.

Some of our local churches are suffering the effects of an aging congregation. Diana Rattray, herself a gay, married woman, told Ponsonby News she had buried too many old All Saints parishioners in just the last year. She agreed that the research which showed that 20% of the New Zealand population is over 60, while more than 40% of church goers is over 60 is largely correct. While 20% of the population is under 30, only 8% of church goers are under 30.

New churches are springing up, some attracting the young. You will read about the Vineyard Church, founded in the US, but now world-wide. I spoke with young pastor Cameron Webster about their work, especially with young people. Other, so-called charismatic or Pentecostal churches are growing.

Islam is growing in New Zealand, and I asked all churches about their and their congregations’ reactions to the Christchurch massacre.

There was an outpouring of love, concern and solidarity about their comments, including support for the Prime Minister’s reactions and actions since the tragedy.

Buddist Ian Gordon said, “The question is what church goers do when they leave church. What are their values and how do they live?”

We asked the church ministers how they saw the future of their churches. I put to all of them the comment I had read that, “In future, churches that love their model more than their mission will fail” and asked them to comment.

One said there is strength in groups who can do more together than individuals on their own.

A feature of the interviews, I thought, was the absence of criticism of denominations not their own.

There was no attempt to ‘other’ anyone, a real positive to come out of the Christchurch tragedy. But everyone acknowledged that the grieving process will take time, and family members of the vicious slaughter will need on-going help.

Read what these church leaders told us, and be thankful that such a group of dedicated lovers of Christ are working daily in our community to make it a less lonely and forbidding place, especially PN for the more marginalised of our fellow citizens. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F johnelliott38@outlook.com

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

Ponsonby Baptist Church Jody Kilpatrick, Minister - Ponsonby Baptist Church The congregation at the Ponsonby Baptist Church was shocked and shaken by the Christchurch tragedy. At a service two days later, Minister Jody Kilpatrick told me they were praying and trying to process what had happened. “We have a lot to think about, as a bicultural and a multicultural nation,” Jody said.

Jody describes her Baptist congregation as a “Community of faith that rises to the risen Christ. Theyare making an effort to encourage the use of te reo in services, and to seek Maori voices...” Regarding church decline I would say, “Our numbers are fairly steady, but there is certainly a decline in numbers of people aged 15-40, and we recognise this does not point to sustainability.”

Like Diana Rattray at All Saints, Jody Kilpatrick talked about the demands on people’s lives outside the church. Ponsonby Baptist Church has a long history of interest in social justice. A major activity in this area started just over 30 years ago, with the Community of Refuge Trust. CORT Housing has grown to be one of the largest social housing providers in Auckland; an independant housing trust with a strong relationship with the church.

Jody told us that inclusiveness is a very important value for the church community: making sure that everyone is valued, can participate and have a voice, whether they identify as having mental health issues, as LGBTI+, as disabled, or as a dyed-in-the-wool Baptist.

Ponsonby Baptist Church describes itself as a “Small inner-city church with 130-year history with a thoughtfully determined and visceral faith, committed at the core and open at the edges.” What a great description! www.ponsonbybaptist.org.nz Diana Rattray - Vicar of All Saints Anglican Church I had a delightful hour with Diana Rattray. She is a modern woman, a police chaplain, a huge believer in tikanga Maori, as well as a married gay woman and aware of the Anglican Church’s anachronistic ways. “It is still a heirarchical system,” said Diana.

Groups do respond better than individuals, she told me, in answer to my questions about the fall off in church attendance numbers. “But people are just so busy,” she said, that “the commitment of belonging is too much for many.” She cited people who work on Sundays, or even seven days. “On rainy days some early childhood centres have few attendees. They have no car, no raincoats, even no shoes.”

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY'S HEART & SOUL Clockwise: Clay Nelson of Ponsonby Unitarian Church; Rev Diana Rattray Vicar All Saints Anglican Church & St Matthew-in-the-City Diana Rattray talked about the loneliness and isolation which is rampant in our community. All Saints Church works actively and collaboratively to get food and conversation to lonely people. Diana also has groups who meet after services during the week on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for coffee and catch-up chats.

She referenced the Spirit Level book which highlights the social problems which result from the inequality which has been such a blight on our community for the last 30 years.

All Saints numbers have fallen in recent years, and Diana sadly related the number of nonagenarians she had buried in just the last year. Attendance gets up to 20 at the early church service on Sunday, with 50-80 at the main Sunday service, Sunday school and youth group, and Diana’s midweek groups. Like every church told me, All Saints is a seven days a week church.

Diana Rattray believes in ‘courageous conversations’ with schools, other churches and in homes, as a healing mechanism for tragedies like the Christchurch massacre.

Building interfaith relationships is important, Diana told me. “We must persist with the aftermath healing process,” she said.

not without controversy. He received hate mail and death threats following his production of the provocative billboards he placed on the corner of Wellesley and Hobson Streets. He had his disagreements with the Bishop about his refusal to ordain a gay colleague, and also objected to the way Brian Tamaki promoted his extremist views.

When Helen Jacobi became Vicar at St Matthew-in-the-City, Clay decided it was time for a change. He accepted a position with the Auckland Unitarians which was a better fit for his progressive views, and where he has been the past five years.

Clay Nelson is in his element discussing religion, politics, philosophy and psychology. His father had a PhD in Philosophy and his family argued around the dinner table. He is not one to gild the lily. He tells it like it is. I told him I had read a paper on church attendance where the author declared ‘the church that loves its model more than its mission will fail’.

Nelson agreed with this proposition, saying, “Many churches today that think they can survive, are whistling in the wind."

Diana Rattray pursues a liberal theology, and views the Bible from a feminist perspective. www.allsaintsponsonby.org.nz

He believes denominations have become an anachronism. The Ponsonby congregation is about 50% humanists and 50% ‘other'. Clay Nelson describes himself as a “Progressive Christian, non-theist, who believes each of us must take responsibility for nourishing and developing our own spirituality. We want a world a little more just and a little more peaceful."

Unitarian Church Leader - Clay Nelson Most of the denominational churches I spoke to this month have more in common than divides them.

As Clay Nelson expressed to me, “We walk a diverse spiritual path to find purpose and meaning in our lives, but we are united in our belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every person."

The Unitarians are different. I had a most delightful hour with American, Clay Nelson, Minister of the Auckland Unitarian Church.

The massacre in Christchurch has shaken us to our core, Clay Nelson wrote in his sermon of 17 March, just two days after the tragedy.

Nelson is also an Anglican minister who migrated to New Zealand 15 years ago. He had not intended to serve in an Anglican church, but was offered a role at St Matthew-in-the-City. He stayed nine years. His time at St Matthew was

"This act of hatred had not previously happened here," he told me, "and we didn’t think it would in spite of plenty of evidence that the deadly virus of white nationalism had become endemic around the world."

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

17

St Columba Anglican Church Nelson warned against going down the road to find someone to blame, insisting that this would curtail our own healing. He quoted James Hollis, author of 'Why Good People Do Bad Things: Understanding our Darker Selves', who said “The psychological and spiritual maturity of an individual, of a group, even a nation, is found precisely in its capacity to tolerate ambiguity and ambivalence, and the anxiety generated by both of them."

Nelson urged that we "do the hard work so that such senseless acts become a thing of the past." As he approaches 70 years old, Nelson says he is no longer the naif he once was, but he has not become cynical and still believes the world can become a better place. Much of his hope resides in our youth, in a very different world thanks to the internet and social media.

A quote from Unitarian minister, Nathan Walker, appeals to Clay Nelson. Walker talks about moral imagination, and says a powerful tool is "the ability to anticipate or project oneself into the middle of a moral dilemma or conflict and understand all points of view. When we observe oppression, let us develop strategies that free not only the oppressed but also the oppressor."

In Clay Nelson we have in our midst a highly intelligent and empathetic man, who uses his lifetime of experience and his profound love of humanity to minister to a lucky group of individuals at the Unitarian Church. www.aucklandunitarian.org.nz Helen Jacobi - St Matthew-in-the-City Vicar I have always loved St Matthews. It’s such a beautiful building, with beautiful acoustics. I have enjoyed a number of concerts there and several services.

I knew it as a liberal Anglican Church, although still unable to marry same sex couples. St Matthews has a close association with the Auckland Rainbow Community Church which does conduct same-sex marriages at St Matthews.

Helen Jacobi has been vicar at St Matthews for about five years. She welcomed me to her church, and we had a very pleasant 45-minute chat.

As an inner-city church, St Matthews is somewhat different from other suburban Anglican churches. It caters for the central city, attracts new immigrants, business people and visitors. Helen told me between 5 and 10% of the congregation each Sunday are visitors. It is home, too, for many of the inner-city poor and homeless. The church is next door to the City Mission and they have a close association.

St Matthews has occasional business breakfasts for business leaders who universally support the church. “All I hear,” Helen told me is “how can we contribute?” There are also regular corporate events when people hire the church.

18 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

“People are looking for meaning and purpose in their lives,” Helen said. “We reach out. Three days after the Christchurch shooting we had 600 at St Matthews.

St Matthew-in-the-City is a seven days a week place for concerts, events and services. “Hire us,” Helen urged me to tell Ponsonby News readers.

The mosque tragedy in Christchurch had a profound effect on Helen and her congregation. A regular congregation numbers about 80 to 100, but three days after the massacre 600 people crowded into St Matthews. “People are reaching out,” Helen told me, “Looking for meaning and purpose in life.” The response to the tragedy has been remarkable, both from church goers and non-church people.

Helen made a good point when we discussed the hijab. “It’s appropriate to wear a hijab,” she told me. “It’s just like taking your shoes off as respect. Men take their hats off in church.”

Helen Jacobi said we must stand up to racism. It is just not acceptable, and never was. St Matthews is an important, perhaps iconic, place of worship in Auckland’s infrastructure, and the church is fortunate to have such a forthright and able vicar to coordinate all the threads that make her church so important to Auckland. www.stmatthews.nz Reverend Brent Swann - St Columba Anglican Church I’ve met the charismatic vicar of St Columba Church, Rev Brent Swann, and his charming wife Huia, several times. I love what they do for the church and local community. Their church is warm and generous and exudes inclusiveness and Christian love. St Columba Church and community centre survived possible closure a couple of years ago and, even now, when its church and community work is thriving, still there is a need to watch the budget closely.

St Columba is a church of diverse theologies, successfully building relationships with its respect for a shared humanity, and working together towards common goals as part of the wider Anglican Church. This is a diverse community – culturally, socio economically and theologically.

The diversity in theology includes evangelical, liberal, and conservative approaches, but Reverend Brent doesn't see labels as being helpful and would prefer no labels at all. He speaks instead of mutual respect, a willingness to learn and be alongside difference, prioritising inclusiveness, aroha and relationship. "It’s how we do aroha, it’s how faith is lived out in authentic, practical and meaningful ways that is important," he says.

There are not huge numbers of church goers these days, Reverend Brent acknowledges. St Columba has an active youth presence but he would not want to insist they come every Sunday. He recognises that church is much more PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The St Columba community was deeply shocked at the Christchurch massacre.

“It was devastating,” Brent told me, “I was deeply moved and saddened. I felt it in my puku for many days after. We all did.

"This tragic event has provided an opportunity for deeper conversations about discrimination and racism, experiencing it, how we recognise it and how we might make a stand against it. It’s in the valleys, the hard places, the hard conversations, that’s where the very best of humanity often emerges," Brent told me. He said this is an opportunity to do some things in different ways. To make a stand for justice and to acknowledge the God and mana present in all of creation and all people.

"There’s a warmth towards us in the Grey Lynn community,” says Brent. With their support, we will continue to serve and together move toward growing a community of manaakitanga that cares for all. www.saintcolumbas.org.nz Firoz Patel - Secretary of Ponsonby Masjid I had a most enjoyable time speaking with the secretary of the Ponsonby Mosque, Firoz Patel.

It turns out Firoz used to live in my street, but he left before I took up residence.

He is a charming man, busy as a beaver trying to do his job at the New Zealand Herald, where he has been for 35 years, and also coping with the aftermath of the Christchurch massacre and the busy life of the Ponsonby Mosque.

Many Ponsonby worshippers have close connections with Christchurch and naturally are still grieving. Firoz told Ponsonby News his congregation is still in awe of New Zealanders’ response to the tragedy. Whether church goers or not, there has been a unanimous outpouring of love and sympathy for families who have lost loved ones.

“The Prime Minister has had international praise for her response to the massacre,” said Firoz, “and rightly so.”

Ponsonby is New Zealand’s oldest mosque, dating back to 1971, first at Pompallier Terrace and then from 1979 in Vermont Street. Presently at Ponsonby, they have the Masjid, the adjoining hall, a Janaza/funeral facility for ghusal and living quarters for the Imam.

Islam exists in every part of the globe and New Zealand is one of its remotest outposts. It was in a remote region of the earth - Arabia - that Islam emerged some 1400 years ago.

PONSONBY'S HEART & SOUL

than a Sunday service and appreciates hearing the hopes and challenges they experience as young people navigating their faith in a secular world.

Cameron Webster - Vineyard Church I enjoyed meeting Cameron Webster, pastor of a little-known church, the Vineyard Church. He is a charming young man and we chatted for nearly an hour.

Vineyard originated in the US, but has expanded all over the world. It first came to New Zealand some 25 years ago. Cameron is of the second generation of pastors, with the New Zealand founder Lloyd Rankin still preaching in Ruru Street, Eden Terrace. There is a desire to have 40 Vineyard churches in New Zealand by 2020. At present there are 25, including church plants.

Vineyard churches are committed to the theology and practice of the Kingdom of God, which they view as the over-arching and integrating theme of the Bible.

Members welcome God’s presence, seeking in worship and prayer to hear His voice and to be obedient to His leading. They love people, who they respect and honour. They are called to compassion and healing leaning towards the lost, the poor, the outcast and the stranger.

Cameron Webster told me the church’s style is relaxed and accessible. They are striving for what he called “the radical middle.” Not extremist. They meet at St Paul’s College in Grey Lynn, where Cameron used to be the physical education teacher.

The Vineyard has an association with Dryden Lodge where many poor, lonely, and some with mental health issues, live.

I asked Cameron to describe his church and he used an interesting analogy.

He described the church as soup, and the Vineyard Church as one of the vegetables, which brings a certain flavour. “We have respect for all churches," he told me. “We have a saying, come as you are. We love and respect all people.

“Urban Vineyard aims to make Christianity accessible, moving with the culture to stay culturally relevant,” Cameron said. “The current cultures shift towards deconstruction of institutions and establishments is not something the church needs to be afraid of as I believe that it will help to build a stronger church in the future.”

Vineyard aims to be accessible and to move with cultural change. They deconstruct and build a stronger church.

Cameron is young and he attracts a younger crowd, and is more comfortable with the young it seems to me, but with a great respect for the elderly.

I very much enjoyed my time with Cameron and can imagine him being a charismatic preacher, although he told me that charismatic is not a word he particularly likes. www.vineyard.org.nz

Firoz told me about 450 worship regularly in Vermont Street, but he was blown away by the support of the Ponsonby and Auckland-wide community after the massacre. He told me about actor Sam Neill turning up, Oscar Keightly and even the King Cobras gang, who I had not seen since the Gluepot pub days, came, prayed, made a donation and left. The flowers and cards were overwhelming and very much appreciated. There were lots of cards from schools.

“They are still coming,” Firoz said, “emails, phone calls, visits. We are open.

United we stand divided we fall.”

The Sacred Heart Catholic Church across the road in Vermont Street has been a pillar of support for the Mosque. Father Rory has offered every kind of assistance possible, and the always good relationship between these two different denominations has never been closer.

Firoz Patel is a proud Gujarati, but also a proud New Zealander and a devout Muslim. He has been shaken by this tragedy, but remains unbowed, partly thanks to all the love, compassion and support lavished on his friends this last month.

We at Ponsonby News salute the Muslim resilience, and send them our love. www.nzma.kiwi.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Flowers placed outside the Ponsonby Masjid by well wishers PONSONBY NEWS+ May

19

WYNYARD QUARTER ON THE MENU As the new heart of Auckland, Wynyard Quarter is home to a variety of world-class eateries.

The precinct already hosts the renowned Auckland Fish Market and a popular selection of established restaurants, with future additions promised underneath residential and commercial developments in the area.

Situated underneath the Wynyard Central Pavilions, Williams Eatery has become a destination. Catering to those visiting from all over Auckland, Williams Eatery has a fresh and diverse breakfast and lunch menu, and is open Thursday - Saturday for dinner, cocktails, local wine and craft beers.

Neighbouring Williams Eatery, is a delectable French Patisserie and a boutique wine retailer showcasing the best of New Zealand’s vineyards. Residents of Wynyard Quarter can collect their morning coffee and croissant from La Petite Fourchette, and pop into Wine Runners in the evening to select the perfect accompaniment to their homemade meal.

The Rolling Pin is set to open its doors underneath the Wynyard Central Apartments later this year. The ground level of Willis Bond & Co’s 132 Halsey development will soon welcome the Good Life salad and juice bar, Besos Latinos, and more.

A short stroll beyond Wynyard Quarter will take you first to iconic spots such as the Viaduct’s Soul Bar or Euro, and then to Britomart hotspots Cafe Hanoi, and Amano. With the best of Auckland’s dining scene only minutes away, you will never be short of choice in Wynyard Quarter.

Nestled alongside the acclaimed restaurants of Jellicoe Street and North Wharf are the exquisite kitchens of Willis Bond & Co’s 30 Madden development.

Whether it be for extravagant dinner parties, or cosy nights in, the kitchens of 30 Madden are well-equipped with beautiful finishes, modern storage solutions and European appliances integrated into the elegant joinery.

Designed by award-winning Studio Pacific Architecture, Carrara marble benchtops and generous islands have been incorporated into a number of homes. Penthouses in both the Daldy and Beaumont apartment buildings enjoy Gaggenau appliances and beautiful views of the Waitemata Harbour.

A dream for both entertainers and those who prefer to keep it simple, 30 Madden has the kitchen and layout to suit your lifestyle.

Whether venturing out or staying in, Wynyard Quarter offers an abundance of dining options right on your doorstep. F PN

30 MADDEN, George Damiris M: 021 956 111, g.damiris@barfoot.co.nz, www.30madden.co.nz

20 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

For those with a taste for high-end leisure, not willing to compromise on location, now is the ďŹ nal opportunity to purchase within 30 Madden. Close to Westhaven Marina, the newly released Beaumont Apartments have a layout to suit your lifestyle with a range of distinguished apartments, maisonettes and penthouses available.

In the centre of Wynyard Quarter, this waterfront development is setting the standard for sustainable urban living. Considered construction, passive design principles and green-conscious provisions frame a community built for the long run. Your every need will be met at 30 Madden.

Visit the 30 Madden display suite on the corner of Madden and Daldy Street.

George Damiris 021 956 111 g.damiris@barfoot.co.nz

Thursday 5pm - 6pm Saturday and Sunday 2pm - 4pm

Gabrielle Hoffmann 021 021 66611 g.hoffmann@barfoot.co.nz

30madden.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

21

MIKE LEE: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF

French navigators in the calm before the storm...

This month, in the calm before the storm that will be Auckland’s local body elections, I thought I might put politics aside and return to the subject of my recent book ‘Navigators & Naturalists - French exploration of New Zealand and the South Seas 1769-1824’.

I first wrote about it in my December column. Five months on, I think it timely to report on its progress.

The first thing to note is that while it is very selling well, especially for a hard back, apart from an RNZ interview, there has not been a huge amount of coverage. The New Zealand Herald's ‘Canvas’ did review it in a few sparse lines which were at least positive about the book. However, the Herald’s Brian Rudman was much more so in his weekly political column, describing it as “fascinating” and a “rollicking good read. And, more to the point, it's our history.”

However, the Otago Daily Times was the only newspaper to do a full review. Political reporter Michael Houlahan described the book as “thrilling" and wrote “In this large and lavishly illustrated volume, the former chairman of the Auckland Regional Council makes a compelling case... However, Lee has his own insights and own voice...

As a biologist, Lee is outstanding in recognising the ground- breaking work of French botanists, zoologists and scientists. He also has the flair to bring these long ago voyages to life...”

Unfortunately, back in Auckland, ‘Navigators’ was rejected by the Auckland Writers’ Festival. But the cold shoulder from the local literary elite was more than made up for by a wonderfully generous email sent to me in February by Professor of History, and author, Paul Moon.

“I finished your book on Friday and, if you don’t mind, I thought I would share my impression of it with you. Production-wise, it’s wonderful, but its real contribution and worth lies in the quality of its scholarship.

This is an extraordinary work in many respects. It effectively offers readers a new dimension of the country’s early colonial history, and provides a specifically French complexion as a counterpoint to the Anglo-Saxon one we’re more familiar with. The writing style is ideally suited to the content, and the sheer quantity of detail means that it will become a crucial resource for scholars from this point onwards. It also advances our perspective of the periods covered. In this sense, it is not only an account of the French in the region until the early 1820s, but also is a work that shapes how the encounters between Maori and Europeans are understood more generally in the era.”

And in late March I received another generous commendation from Emeritus Professor Kerry Howe, Pacific historian, yachtsman and author.

“I've just finished your book. I want to say how much I enjoyed it, and how I think it is such a great contribution. Its strengths are many. And, in no particular order, I think the main ones are these:

• I really like your approach à la Ruskin re eyewitness accounts. You bring, in a sense, a fresh eye, one not pre-clouded with the academic baggage of postmodernism, or the latest political correctness. You see, and narrate, what the French saw. It remains your narrative but avoids the charge of selectivity by virtue of extensive quotations from so many different observers of the events. So I feel there's a wonderful rawness, freshness and richness of detail, not mediated through fancy-pants theories and assumptions.

• and in so doing, there's a wonderful forensic quality which brings out so many new angles and so much novel information. I guess there are several historians of early New Zealand who are well aware of a generalised early French presence on our coasts, but in nowhere like the detail, and also the broader geo-political context that you are able to paint. We all tend to look in one direction, and from one vantage point, and you so effectively challenge this by looking from somewhere else, and at other historical players, and even other things • speaking of forensic, your account of Marion's death is simply masterly. I like the way you deal with and dispatch some current historical interpretations, and then you swing in with your own explanation as a coup de grace.

• and there's the actual view from the sea and the beach. It is their words, but your understanding/empathy, your apparent intimacy with place and vantage point - especially Doubtless Bay and the Bay of Islands. Only someone who sits on a kayak or some other small craft can get what I think is a real sense of such places... you capture, with your eye and use of documentation from people in those exact same places, the essence of the physical and cultural landscape. And your own naturalist background just enhances your novel/different approach.

So, a most marvellous piece of historical scholarship, but it is, to me, more than that. It's an evocation of events that once were, but still help shape how we now think culturally, in places that still are.”

PN (MIKE LEE) F Navigators & Naturalists - French Exploration of New Zealand and the South Seas 1769-1824 is published by Bateman Books. Available at all good booksellers, RRP $69.99.

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

UPCYCLING IS BACK IN GREY LYNN ‘Trash to Trade’ event series from 19 - 26 May.

This is for everyone who loves their hood, the environment and wants a positive future for our children and the planet. It is all about reducing waste, buying less and making cool things out of waste material, while having fun. The motto is: From Discarded To Desirable!

You may remember the first Trash to Trade Competition in Grey Lynn last year, artisans utilising business waste to create upcycled products for a new business stream. This year, Grey Lynn 2030 Transition Community will be running an upcyling event series in and around Grey Lynn between Sundays 19 May and 26 May, where upcycling art will be displayed and available for sale at various venues. There will also be upcycling workshops facilitated by skilled upcycling artisans, and an enviro treasure hunt for kids.

Come along and be part of the Grey Lynn community, helping us in reducing household and business waste, and learning how to do this in a fun and creative way. Check for updates on our Grey Lynn 2030 facebook page. F PN

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Local Body election update Recently selected City Vision candidates.

The CV team for the Waitemata Local Board includes sitting members Richard Northey and Adriana Christie, along with newcomers Alexandra Bonham, Glenda Fryer, Graeme Gunthorp, Kerrin Leoni and Julie Sandilands.

Check these people out. Find out what they think about the important issues facing Auckland, including transport, housing and infrastructure. What do they think about rate increases? How would they fund essential maintenance and future development?

And, most importantly of all, will they call for the council-controlled organisations like Auckland Transport, Panuku, Watercare and Ateed to be opened up for public scrutiny and democratic behaviour?

City Vision has selected the current Waitemata Board Chairperson, Pippa Coom, as its Waitemata Ward councillor candidate. She replaces long-time, left-wing councillor Mike Lee, who has not yet signalled he will retire.

If Mike, who had not even been told the selection was taking place, decides not to retire, he could oppose Pippa Coom and split the centre-left vote. He had indicated he would not seek City Vision endorsement. I understand he might also contemplate standing for mayor. Mike has vast experience and if he does retire, we will lose a valuable local body politician.

Phil Goff has declared he will stand again for mayor, a job I think he has done only adequately well. The only other nominee so far is former Labour Party cabinet minister, John Tamihere. So, already the centre left is in potential trouble; left-leaning candidates fighting among themselves.

Last month, I signalled a need to amend the Local Government Act which set up the new Auckland Super City. CCOs, or council controlled organisations, are a feature, and an unpleasant one, of the act.

These CCOs are out of control, and council seems unwilling or unable to do anything about it.

At least former Mayor Len Brown put two councillors, Mike Lee and Christine Fletcher on the Auckland Transport Board. Goff took them off.

I urge everyone to ask candidates what they would advocate for if they are elected. Would they insist the mayor puts two councillors back on AT to keep a bit of an eye on that secret society?

The act says that the council may make operating rules for AT, but if you look at clause 46 of the act, you will see a huge range of powers available to AT. Far too many, I submit. The council cannot by law place directors on any other CCO. This must change, requiring a law change by parliament.

Further aiding the ‘secret society’ sobriquet, CCOs are only required to have two open meetings a year – disgraceful!

I urge you to question candidates as they declare themselves – Tamihere, Goff, Coom and board candidates so far – and ask them for specific policy declarations. Read my interview with John Tamihere elsewhere in this issue.

Auckland City is at a critical crossroads. Unless bold democratically decided decisions are made in the next term, Auckland’s progress is PN in jeopardy. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

photography: Michael McClintock

If Lee stands again, a right-leaning candidate would have a good chance of taking the Waitemata Ward councillor seat, and a right-

leaning mayoral candidate could walk in if Tamihere and Goff split the mayoral vote.

Waitemata Board Chairperson Pippa Coom pictured outside Grey Lynn Farmers Market

24 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS: KERRY LEE

Women’s Ponsonby rugby club Ever since Charles Monro introduced rugby in 1870, it’s been New Zealand’s national sport. Four years later, the Ponsonby Rugby Club opened its doors and today it caters to teams made up of both men and women.

Manager of the Fillies rugby team, Kelvery Longapoa, spoke to me about the state of women’s sport and where she’d like to see her team go in the future.

I take it the other players have jobs as well?

Everyone here’s a mother, they all have full or part-time work, and some of them are students.

Tell me a little bit about yourself, and the team.

I’ve been with the Fillies for over 20 years, we’re a premier top-side women's rugby team which has been around for 40-plus years.

Do you think that having to hold down other jobs affects the team?

Yes, holding down full-time jobs does affect us. Kiwi sportswomen have had to go without financial compensation in New Zealand for a long time. The Ponsonby Fillies are made up of either students, full-time workers, or mothers.

Did you notice any discrimination when you first joined?

At the time I didn’t see any discrimination. I guess along the way there was some discrimination towards women playing rugby because it’s a sport that’s predominantly run by men.

Why did you get involved with rugby to begin with?

I enjoy the physicality of the game, and that I’m amongst other independent, strong women. That’s one of the main reasons that I decided to get into rugby.

You mentioned that the club has different scales, what did you mean by that?

It means different leagues, such as developmental matches for members who are still learning the game. Then you’ve got premier senior leagues for players who’ve been with us for a number of years, so that’s what I meant by scales.

After the premier league, can they play at a higher national level?

When you finish club rugby, you can be expected to be chosen for the national levels. The next step would be to go on to Auckland, Wellington or Taranaki. From there you could go on to the Black Ferns, so there are some stepping stones to go through.

Any Black Ferns here?

Currently, we have four representing the Ponsonby Fillies.

Traditionally, our team has produced a lot of Black Fern players.

You mentioned that you work at a women's prison?

I’m an educational tutor at the Mt Eden educational facility, and that’s my full-time job.

In other countries, national sports are subsidised, allowing athletes to play full time. Would you like that for women's rugby in New Zealand?

It would be a huge advantage for us. Unfortunately, that’s not the situation. It just comes down to funding and who wants to support us.

At club level, where we’re at, it starts from the bottom up. If we work within our communities to create awareness and work our way up, then we can definitely see a change in the future for women's rugby.

If you had a chance to do this full time, would you take it?

I would definitely want to manage rugby full time and develop the game. There are a lot of young girls that are taking up the sport now, and the Ponsonby Rugby Club produces a lot of international players. This would be the club to join to start your sporting career.

When you spoke to Ponsonby News, you mentioned sponsorships – besides the financial aspect, what can sponsorships do?

Help pay for equipment like rugby balls, uniforms and water bottles. It all goes towards helping the team this season, and that’s something we’ve never had in the past. This year, it’s about making the players visible to the community, and letting people know that this is who we are and what we represent.

Where do you see the team going in the future?

Winning championships and, more importantly, gaining more visibility in the community. People tend to forget about us, so we need more recognition to let people know ‘this is who we are', and ‘this is where PN we’re at’. (KERRY LEE) F

For more information on women's rugby or the Ponsonby Rugby Club, please visit www.ponsonbyrugby.co.nz/Senior-Rugby/Womens-Rugby The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PREDICTWEATHER.COM

Auckland weather diary, May 2019 - by the moon May should be sunny and dry for the first 10 days, but for the rest of the month, rain is expected within any three days.

There may be, like last month, three phases of rain, the first over the middle of the month, the second in the fourth week, and one in the last few days. Heaviest rainfall is on or near 14th.

Sunshine gives way to cloudiness in the second week and returns only intermittently thereafter.

The wind direction average is from the southeast. The windiest day may be 16th.

For Auckland, the average for maximums may be 19-21°C and for minimums 12-14°C. The warmest day may be 24th with around 22°C max, and the coolest night may be 28th with around 4°C. Overall the barometer may average above 1019mbs. The highest barometer reading may be around 1030mbs between 6th and 9th, and lowest is 1000mbs on or near 21st. The best interval in May for outside activities should be the first 10 days.

Highest tides are on 19th, with a lesser high tide around 6th.

For fishermen, the best fishing bite-times in the east are around dusk from 4th-6th and 18th-21st. Chances look okay around 12 noon 12th-13th and 25th-28th. Southeasterlies are after 9th.

For gardeners, the best sowing interval is 11th-18th, when the waxing moon is ascending. The best pruning periods are 1st-4th and 24th-31st, when the waning moon is descending. If harvesting

for preservation and longer shelf-life, pick on lower water-table days: 1st, 12th and 27th.

Allow 24 hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING) F PN For future weather for any date, see www.predictweather.com.

ST COLUMBA’S CLAY WORKS POTTERS’ MARKET'S FIFTH YEAR OF SELLING QUALITY POTTERY It’s that time again! Clay Works Potters’ Market is on at St Columba Church Hall on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 May - in perfect time to buy last-minute gifts for Mother's Day! Pots - sculptures - vessels - bowls - jugs - mugs - plates - vases teapots. A treasure trove of pottery will be available at this year’s Clay Works, so take the kids along to choose something special for mum. Potters include well-known members of the potting community as well as emerging potters. Anyone who’s visited Clay Works in the past will tell you that the range of pottery is amazing and the quality high. There’s something for everyone - in style and in price.

Sales are on a cash-and-carry basis. As items sell, the tables are restocked, so no one will miss out if they can’t be there early.

A sausage sizzle on the Saturday morning will provide perfect aftersports' sustenance. Buyers please bring your own bags to carry purchases home in as St Columba is going plastic free. Eftpos facilities are provided.

Clay Works is St Columba’s major annual fundraiser. It enables the church to continue supporting those in need in the Grey Lynn community. It has become a much-anticipated event in Auckland’s arts calendar, and people come from far and wide to socialise, browse and buy. It’s a ceramics collector’s dream! F PN DATES: Friday 10 May and Saturday 11 May, 10am - 4pm.

VENUE: ST COLUMBA CHURCH HALL, 92 Surrey Crescent, Grey Lynn, Enquiries: Liz Caughey 021 151 7087.

26 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS PONSONBY PARK UPDATE The Community-led Design process (implemented by the Waitemata Local Board in April 2015) has consistently shown that the community endorses four main priorities for the whole site civic open space at 254 Ponsonby Road - aka ‘Ponsonby Park’.

1.

2.

3.

4.

A place to sit and relax A green space A place for markets A place for events

LandLAB’s international award-winning* Park+ design will provide a social and community hub, as well as vibrant and dynamic space for markets and events to enhance Ponsonby. It will also provide a beautiful green space for people to rest and relax.

These peaceful, green spaces will not only nurture the community, they will also provide tangible solutions to stormwater runoff and the subsequent degradation of our harbours. LandLAB’s Park+ design includes a rain garden, a living green roof and urban trees.

Rain gardens seek to replicate natural wetland ecosystems. They are built to improve both stormwater disposal efficiency and water quality. They also create habitat by using the natural processes of plants, soils and associated microorganisms. Rain gardens provide vegetation to trap suspended solids and slow down water flows, whilst the microorganisms that live there process and neutralise some pollutants.

A living green roof is one that is partially or completely covered with vegetation. They serve several purposes for a building, including: absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, creating habitat, providing an aesthetically pleasing landscape and helping lower urban air temperatures and mitigate ‘heat island’ effects. They do this by utilising the natural functions of plants to filter water and treat air in the urban landscape.

Urban trees sequester carbon, thereby contributing to improved air quality. Additionally, maximum air temperatures for treed areas are lower due to the process of ‘evaporative cooling’. They also reduce

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

and slow stormwater runoff by intercepting precipitation in their leaves and branches.

Ponsonby will be enriched and enhanced by the whole site civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road, aka ‘Ponsonby Park’. It will provide pleasure and enjoyment for everyone who lives, works or visits Ponsonby.

Bring it on! (JENNIFER WARD) F PN For more information or to contact us, see our webpage: 254ponsonbyrd.org.nz Or our Facebook page: Ponsonby Park. * The LandLAB design for Ponsonby Park won the international ‘World Architecture News – Future Civic Category’ award in November 2018.

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PONSONBY U3A: MAY 2019 NIWA climate scientist Petra Pearce delivered a stark message on climate change and what it means for New Zealand, at the April meeting of Ponsonby U3A. In brief, her message was that the next generation will be faced with the clean up as we are now moving into the phase of adaptation. That it is the responsibility of today’s generation to put in place policies for the future. There are going to be impacts in every sector.

She said that individually there is not a lot we can do to change the effect of global warming, but collectively there is. Individual contributions would be around transport, food and energy. Government action includes reducing emissions, regulatory schemes and incentives and renewable energy sources.

We are now swamped with information about climate change, that for many of us can be confusing. Petra gave a clear and concise explanation about where the planet has reached in the warming process, what is normal climate change and the degree to which humankind is contributing to this.

The climate changing is evidenced across the world by retreating glaciers, longterm warming trends, more intense storms and sea-level rise. NIWA has undertaken climate modelling to understand what may be in store for New Zealand for the rest of the 21st Century. Warming is expected to continue with more hot extremes and fewer cold extremes. Changes to rainfall patterns, storms and sea levels are also expected. These changes are likely to have significant impacts on our communities, natural environments, businesses and future generations. She gave illustrated examples of how Auckland may be affected. As a climate scientist, Petra produces climate change guidance for regional councils, iwi groups and businesses. This guidance is used for underpinning policy, strategic planning and understanding future impacts and risks from climate change. She also undertakes historic climate research which seeks to learn more about the past climate of New Zealand and the Southern Ocean. This helps to put the present and future changes in context of past climate variability.

U3A member Jill Samson was the 10-minute speaker. In common with most U3A members, her life has been anything but mundane and her talk was entitled 'Sailing the Atlantic Ocean’. She gave a fascinating insight into adventure on the high seas when she and her husband joined the crew of a trimaran to sail from Cape Town to the Virgin Islands in the late 1960s. A chance meeting at the Durban marina had resulted in them being asked to join the crew of

one of the many sailing boats there cruising around the world – “We agreed without any thought or hesitation.” There were four couples on the 45ft, three-hull trimaran. A number of other sail boats were making the same trip, which took them around the Cape of Good Hope to St Helena Island, Ascension Island and from there to the Caribbean. After leaving Ascension Island, the boat spent 10 days drifting in the doldrums and it was six weeks before they saw land again. Food supplies became low. One of the men claimed that food was missing, whereupon another said he had paid for it and produced a hand gun to claim his fair share. With several weeks to go, they sailed in virtual silence until they finally reached the Virgin Islands. It was the end of an adventure, but the beginning of a new three-year adventure in the Caribbean for Jill and her husband.

Ponsonby U3A meets on the second Friday morning of the month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting and a 10-minute speaker from the U3A membership. Ponsonby U3A offers members the opportunity for informal study and new learning experiences through its more than 20 special interest groups - referred to as the 'lifeblood of the U3A movement’. Visitors are welcome to attend a monthly meeting, but are asked to first contact Christine Hart, T: 027 289 5514.

Guest speaker for the May meeting will be Professor Alison Jones - 'Maori PN engagement with writing before the Treaty’. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F NEXT MEETING:

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

ENQUIRIES:

Christine Hart, President Ponsonby U3A. T: 027 289 5514, www.u3a.nz

LUCIA MATAIA: LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY NEWS Kia ora koutou. The month of May brings us the best in local and international writers at the Auckland Writers Festival Waituhi O Tamaki 13-19 May. International writers include John Boyne (Ireland), Sisonke Msimang (South Africa/AU), Mary Morris (US), Kamila Shamsie (Pakistan/UK) and Douglas Coupland (Canada). Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is on the programme and so are some of our favourite locals, such as Tessa Duder, Albert Wendt, Stephanie Johnson and Witi Ihimaera. Pop into the library, we still have copies of the programme. It’s not too late to book for some events.

A quick recap on the events held in the library last month included a wonderful morning with the colorful Camino de Santiago trail presentation by Yvonne (Kitch) Cuthbert.

Thank you, Kitch, for your personal tips and the valuable information for would-be Camino trail enthusiasts. We also hosted author Jennifer Andrewes, who talked about her book Parallel Lives and her journey with her family from Wellington to the South of France, where they lived for a year.

speaker and recommend seeing him this year. We are also looking forward to seeing Artemis Cooper discuss memory in relation to her work as a biographer. Finally, this year’s honoured writer is Joy Cowley. You could get along to see her at the festival's closing event and if you haven’t read her adult fiction, it’s well worth a read.

Craft at Leys This group meet on the first and third Monday of each month 10am - 11.30am so bring your knitting or what ever project you are working on. Tea and biscuits provided.

French Conversation This friendly group meet Monday from 12 noon - 1pm for French conversation in the downstairs reading room. No booking necessary and no fees.

Mother’s Day Storytime Friday 10 May at 10.30am we invite you to come and celebrate the occasion with stories and songs. Afterwards, the children will design and make a badge to give to their special person.

Speaking of language, did you know we have books in French, Chinese and Spanish for children? We also have a selection of French and Chinese language books for adults.

We can order other community language books for you and have ithem delivered to Leys.

Please ask a librarian when you next visit. (LUCIA MATAIA) F PN

Book Chat Here are some recommendations from our Book Chats group for the Auckland Writers Festival. We have quite few fans of John Boyne. This is Boyne’s second appearance at the Writers Festival. Those of us who had seen him previously thought he was a terrific

Open hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm and Saturday 9am - 4pm.

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

Education public meetings wrap up I’ve now done eight weeks of public meetings across New Zealand on Tomorrow’s Schools and the feedback is that many people see room to improve our education system but they don’t want it radically restructured into a hub model.

I have hosted around 30 public meetings and discussions in education, engaging with an estimated 2000 people on changes proposed by the Independent Taskforce. I also held around 40 additional informal meetings and discussions with principals, smaller groups, students, parents and stakeholder organisations. I have learned a lot from listening to teachers, principals and parents throughout New Zealand.

Many people said the proposed hub model was a return to failed education boards of the past. The boards’ shortcomings were a major driver for Tomorrow’s Schools being introduced three decades ago. People were concerned that principals and teachers could be muzzled and lose their autonomy if they were employed by hubs, and parents could end up disempowered due to significant changes to their role under the model. The level of centralisation proposed and potential administrative costs are very worrying. I have raised concerns about the originally unreasonable timeframes set by the Education Minister. Three and a half weeks to consider more than 5000 submissions and feedback is totally inadequate. National supports strengthening boards rather than this radical restructuring.

I hope that we can get greater cross-party agreement in education and I am working hard to do that in areas such as the NCEA review. National has already confirmed its support for some of the recommendations in the Tomorrow’s Schools review such as additional learning support and scrapping the decile system, which National made a decision to do when we were in government.

Labour’s plans for a capital gains tax dumped I realise people will have differing views on tax changes. In my view it is good news for families and businesses that the Coalition Government has dumped its proposed capital gains tax. The planned tax was complicated, excessive and would have had a very detrimental impact on hundreds of thousands of small businesses.

In National’s view, it would have slowed down the economy, led to fewer jobs and higher rents. Organisations and individuals who submitted, strongly emphasised the higher costs to renters. What was proposed would have been one of the most punitive capital taxation systems in the world. There are more than 190,000 businesses in Auckland.

Many residents and businesses in Auckland central were struggling to get clarity on the details of how it would affect them. I worked hard to try and get that clarity but there were many areas where we were unable to determine the impact. It’s been a very shambolic process which has cost several million dollars and seen the Greens, NZ First and Labour divided on this issue.

A lot of people were led to believe that this tax would solve housing issues alongside the Government’s flagship Kiwibuild programme.

Kiwibuild has been plagued with problems and is an abject failure.

National is releasing many policy discussion documents this year to ensure we are constructive and can demonstrate we have solutions to issues such as reducing the costs of building houses and the cost of living.

Central Rail Link construction The announcement by the Government that the cost of the City Rail Link has ballooned out by $1 billion is extremely concerning and raises serious questions about the Government’s ability to manage major infrastructure projects. We are asking questions to ensure the Government explains how the cost of the project has blown out by $1 billion since taking office 18 months ago and to provide transparency about how the costs will be met.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

There is continuing construction in the lower and upper areas of the central city alongside ongoing changes to traffic and pedestrian diversions, barriers and road closures for necessary access to works and safety precautions. An updated notifications with works information can be found on the City Rail Link website www.cityraillink.co.nz I recently met with a group of Albert Street small-business owners concerned about the impact of business disruption and their experience with the City Rail Link construction, including the lack of communication by Auckland Council on surrounding City Rail Link works. They have suggested a number of measures Auckland Council could implement to assist their situation. I have written to Mayor Phil Goff on behalf of the affected businesses and asked to meet with central and local Government representatives to discuss a resolution.

Anzac Day commemorations Anzac Day is a significant day in our history. It is a time to reflect on the servicemen and servicewomen, past and present, who have served our country. It is important to remember our history, especially as we all respond as a nation to the horrific attack in Christchurch and acknowledge the tragedy and loss of life. National is working constructively with the Government to ensure all New Zealanders are safe. During this time it is also important to show peace and unity as PN a country. Lest we forget. (NIKKI KAYE) F 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. Authorised by Hon Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, 48c College Hill, Freemans Bay. www.nikkikaye.co.nz

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 discuss anything with me Drop In Constituency Clinic: 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay Monday 20 May, 11am

Funded by the Parliamentary Service.

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

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DEIRDRE THURSTON: ON MY MIND

Stepping out...

“Time for a road trip,” my friend announced. “You, me. Research.” I couldn’t have cared less about why, I’d begun fizzing with excitement the second she said ‘road trip’.

Oh, the possibilities. North? South? Or did she mean a serious road trip. Not just leaving the ‘hood’ for a bit but leaving the country? The pack for a month, fly to Europe and drive through Italy kind?

“Yes! When? Where?”

“Next week, middle North Island - King country. Overnight.”

Possibilities and excitement collided on their downward plummet and thunked on the hard ground that only moments before had danced beneath my itchy feet.

“Why?” “Research, like I said, for my writing. Small town New Zealand. Locals.

You in?”

“Um, I think I’m washing my hair that night. Either that or I will have a headache.”

She spun a story of quaint stop-offs along the way; hot, home-made scones slathered in butter, tiny cafes painted sky blue with roses trailing over the doorway, curio shops bursting at the shutters with treasures.

And all for less than a dollar. If the buttery scones hadn’t quite worked, the treasures did. I cannot ever resist a second-hand shop. There is something almost covert about them. All those dust motes and abandoned items. All those secret stories that go with the curios.

I was born in the King Country and lived there for the first two years of my life. My mother yearned for Auckland and what she saw was a brighter future for her kids. Until I was in my early teens, I holidayed down there on one of my Nana’s farms. Happy times.

“We’re going inland,” my friend told me as she drove her big, old van with the slippy-out gears and shrieky-alarm system.

I’m more of a coastal girl myself and tend to hyperventilate and feel like I’ve been abducted by aliens if I’m far from the coast. She was determined, so inland we went.

My pining for coastal Italy in a cute, red Bambina dissipated quickly as we left the city behind us on a yellow and blue day. I love my ‘hood’ but it was incredibly exhilarating leaving it behind and hanging out with a ‘bestie’ as we drove through our stunning countryside.

I always swear to embrace veganism if I’m in the countryside. All those beautiful sentient beings minding their own business in dew -soaked, grassy paddocks, the sun beginning to warm their backs.

The morning was like a prayer, soft and full of promise.

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

The gears behaved themselves, mostly. Only the rare slip into nothingness. The alarm did not fare so well. We never did see blue -painted, rose-covered cafes. There were cheese scones but not the stuff of dreams. We did devour a pork and apple pie just out of the oven. So much for veganism. In my defence, we hadn’t spotted any pigs en route. I would have loitered longer in the many second -hand shops we visited but that blimmin’ alarm had other ideas. Also, I needed a quick dash to the chemist for eye drops after a particularly dusty shop. Not so much motes floating in sunbeams but clods of heavy filth that roused themselves as we passed by a rickety table crammed with cracked teapots.

Our accommodation at our destination was exquisite. Once a Catholic church - right up my alley having been brought up Catholic and desperately wanting, at five-years-old, to be a nun. The confessional was the bathroom, the sacristy, the two bedrooms. The altar housed a large dining table and chairs. I couldn’t sit at that table. I kept hearing Sister Mary Frances swooping in hissing at me to “Get off the altar, you blasphemous child.” Warm childhood memories.

The main street of our little town had the usual art gallery with dream catchers, hand made soaps and paintings of flax and pukekos; a curio shop in which I really did find treasures. More than a dollar, but bargains nonetheless. Two takeaway joints, a Four Square and a farm supplies depot. Men in giant tractors hurtled down the main street, waving out and bestowing huge toothless grins on us.

Dinnertime and the local Cosmopolitan Club beckoned. Bound to be locals with their stories there for our research. And there were.

Delightful, down-to-earth, simple men and women, and the odd child, who embraced us with open arms and brimming wineglasses, shouting: “They’re bloody jaffas, mate!”

No craft beers or fancy chardonnay. No tapas or tasting plates. Just good old fish and chips or steak and salad. Although I could never live in such a small community, and there is gossip and feuding, they all have each others’ backs. A hard-working, simple existence for the most part among some of the most stunning countryside on Earth.

As we drove home the next day back out of their lives and into ours, I felt blessed that all this beauty is only a few hours drive from home.

We should all take the time to step out of ourselves and experience the rest of New Zealand.

I’m off to buy tofu and a road map.

(DEIRDRE THURSTON) F PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS MEET THE MAKERS IS A SOPHISTICATED WINE AND FOOD SHOWCASE Are you a local food or beverage maker looking to promote your brand to a discerning market?

We are currently seeking exhibitors for St Mary’s College key 2019 fundraising event: MEET THE MAKERS, Saturday 10 August, 7pm, at St Mary’s College.

This ‘taste sensation’ is in a fun social setting at St Mary’s College in Ponsonby, with live entertainment and amazing auction packages.

There’ll be parents, family, friends and the local community at this showcase – which is a fundraiser to construct a playground to benefit all kids.

Mingle with winemakers and brewers, taste their varieties and buy at cellar-door prices, matched with gourmet food from local restaurants.

Great sponsor options exist: Naming Rights, Gold and Silver Sponsorship packages. All MEET THE MAKERS sponsors, will have fantastic opportunities to engage with the St Mary's College community, and brand your business.

If you have a food business and would like to participate, or for more information, please contact Jacob: Jsheehan@stmaryak.school.nz or phone T: 09 376 6568.

MORE FREE STUFF AT THE PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE Ponsonby Community Centre is proud to be offering another free community activity in collaboration with Dance Therapy NZ. We would like to acknowledge the support we receive from the Waitemata Local Board which enables these programmes to happen.

Dance4Us! are Dance Movement Therapy group sessions for adults with special needs (including autism, cerebral palsy, Downs syndrome, cognitive delays and other disabilities).

Participants will enjoy a fun and therapeutic dance/movement session every week, fostering social connections and emotional literacy through creative and expressive dance/movement-based activities. The sessions will be drop-in, with an optional gold coin donation, to enable a wide range of participants to enjoy the opportunity.

The Dance4Us! programme starts on Monday 6 May at 2:30pm. F PN For more information on Ponsonby Community Centre, our activities and venue hire, please visit www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz

Dance 4 Us Ponsonby!

Dance and movement therapy group for youth and adults with special needs From Monday May 6th 2:30 - 3:30 pm Sessions are drop in so no need to register GOLD COIN DONATION

www.dancetherapy.co.nz Proudly supported by the Ponsonby Community Centre and the Waitemata Local Board

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PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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LOCAL NEWS IF I WERE MAYOR...

It’s election year, so Ponsonby News asked some of the pupils at Ponsonby Intermediate School what they would do if they were Mayor.

RANEEL

INDIGO

SOPHIA

AMELIE

HUGO

Hugo Morganti I would build more houses and flats to accommodate the homeless.

We would build thinner, taller, buildings, and rent them for a low price.

We would provide homeless people with temporary jobs, working at local shops to earn enough money to get them back on their feet.

I would also start a fund called ‘Freelunch’ where, every time someone spent a dollar at participating stores, a free lunch would be given to someone in need.

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

Amelie Kelly I would lower housing prices so that more people can afford a place to live, reducing the number of people living on the streets.

I would also provide more care for the homeless and add more public toilets, drinking fountains and green areas/parks. For all of the new facilities I would hire cleaners to keep them clean, welcoming and free of graffiti. I would also add some more colour to the streets, brightly painted buildings, decorations and lights. I would build more sports and health facilities to keep the residents fit and to give them somewhere to exercise. I would widen the footpaths so that people have more space to bike and walk, keeping them fit.

Sophia Brooker Step aside Phil Goff, I’m the new mayor here! I would ensure that those awful skinny Ponsonby roads with cars parked all the way down them would be widened, giving everyone space to drive safely.

Encouraging bright and colourful graffiti, portraits and other artwork in the right places would be one of my priorities. There would be weekly cleanups, removing rubbish from our green spaces, and everyone would be encouraged to help. Cultural displays would be at least a monthly occurrence, and people could show their heritage to their friends and neighbours in Ponsonby. There would be more shelters, with better living conditions, and more opportunities for the homeless. Electric scooters would be either banned or given a serious speed limit on the footpath, as they can be a danger to our blind community, and anyone using the pavement, if used incorrectly.

Public Libraries would be given more funding, to encourage people of all ages to read and to enjoy books. I think this would help Ponsonby, and Auckland to be a better place for everyone to live.

Indigo Upton I would sort out all the construction going on. Especially the construction in Grey Lynn. I would make lots of bike lanes and narrower roads. I would also add pedestrian crossings. I think bike lanes and pedestrian crossing are important because it means the footpaths will be less busy and people can safely get across the road.

I would also make the streets a lot brighter with art and I would restore a lot of old buildings and make them into cheap apartments for the homeless or cheap shops and supermarkets. I would also make more public facilities. I think this will make Ponsonby a better and safer place for all.

Raneel Vaidya If I were mayor of Auckland, I would install new gyms and sport/ health facilities. This would hopefully encourage more people to exercise and play sport. I think that if we have better, fun sporting facilities, Auckland and New Zealand could develop more great, enthusiastic sportspeople. I would also make Auckland a greener place by planting more plants and trees. I’d definitely use solar/wind energy to stop global warming. I would also try to support homeless people more and give them food and shelter. Communities could also help with this. Hopefully, Auckland would also become more friendly.

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Stan Urlich If I were the mayor of Auckland, I would start a monthly cleaning routine. All citizens would be encouraged to pick up litter, reduce waste and generally clean up their property or street. I would build more shelters for homeless people so that everybody has shelter, no matter their financial status. I would plan more community functions to bring everybody together. If I were the mayor of Auckland, I would make it my main goal to make it a better place, whether it's for travellers or citizens.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Genevieve Cartmell I would enhance Ponsonbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already beautiful environment, with more trees, and education around our environment in community spaces. I would allow Ponsonby to have their say in what they want improved, and will take on their suggestions. Ponsonby would be people driven, not just the council controlling what happens. There would be less shops selling similar things, and more interactive fun education.

There would be more eco-friendly events - no plastic litter strewn across the place - that would decrease our environmental footprint.

Altogether, we would be an environmentally friendly community.

Eden Graves I would like to encourage more murals and pieces of art around the streets so walking around the suburb is never a mundane activity. Opening up more bike lanes would also be a good idea.

It would inspire kids and adults to be more active, using bikes, scooters or even skateboards to get around instead of driving.

I would love to add more social events to showcase the liveliness and thrill of Ponsonby. Bringing the community of Ponsonby together would further strengthen our society and make Ponsonby an even better place.

Eliza Michell If I were the mayor of Auckland, I would try to make Ponsonby a better place by cutting down on traffic. I would cut out driving on Ponsonby Rd and replace it with paved ground made for pedestrians.

This would make it easy for people to wander about safely, without having to cross roads or walk on small, crowded footpaths. I would put food stalls, small tables and chairs, fountains and flower boxes to run down the middle, so that Ponsonby 'Road' would be a place to shop, eat and relax rather than drive, shop and leave. I would also take inspiration from the Britomart area, with fairy lights running along shops and across the whole street/area, and twirling up trees to light up the street at night. Murals would be covering buildings, in bright, but subtle colours for eye-catching pops of art. Overall, I would make Ponsonby a brighter, more pedestrian-friendly area, much like a plaza.

Charlie Frater If I were mayor... I would start construction for bike lanes on most main roads. I would aim to make more houses, but build up instead out. I would allow permits to build higher in low residential zones.

I would give doctors and teachers a higher salary. I would start a massive planting conservation and plant lots of native Kauri and ferns, moss, etc, over useless cut-down farm land. I would sort out an efficient type of underground metro/trams around outer suburbs of Auckland. I would listen to lots of different people from different places in Auckland and use their ideas and find out what they would want.

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LOCAL NEWS: KERRY LEE

Ponsonby history Originally named Dedwood, the suburb now known as Ponsonby has become one of Auckland’s most well known and colourful neighbourhoods.

I spoke to historian and longtime resident Gerry Hill and his partner Sally, to tell me a little more about the area.

Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?

Gerry: The first time I came to Ponsonby was in 1973 to see the Rolling Stones in concert. In 1988, my partner Sally and I moved here permanently.

What first interested you in Ponsonby?

Gerry: It’s the most colourful area of New Zealand and arguably the world. “It’s just rich with a deep vein of social history."

Examples include New Zealand’s first Roman Catholic Bishop, Jean Baptiste Pompallier, who arrived in Ponsonby from France in the 1830s. Another example is Sir Michael Joseph Savage, perhaps our greatest and most beloved prime minister, who came from Ponsonby.

We’ve also had colourful characters like Freda Stark who would be well known to a generation of Aucklanders as a famous dancer. She entertained 3000 servicemen a night during World War II, in just gold paint. Then we have Dutch artist Theo Schoon who painted Maori art and really brought it to the fore.

The people that have lived in Ponsonby in the past have achieved many of the things that are taken for granted today.

Up until 1873, Ponsonby was known as Dedwood. There's some confusion about why they changed the name, but why do you think they did it?

Gerry: Well the Crimean War had just happened, and the Brits had to name these places after public, famous people, and Ponsonby was one of them.

Sally: We’re not entirely sure who Ponsonby was, so the reason is lost in the mists of time.

In its early days, Ponsonby had a reputation of being a melting pot of different cultures, when did that start to happen?

Gerry: There were a lot of issues in Ponsonby, a lot of social needs.

There was huge Pacific immigration into New Zealand. Rents and houses were cheap to buy, so the Pacific communities moved into Freemans Bay, Ponsonby and Grey Lynn.

With houses prices going up, do you think that Ponsonby’s in danger of losing its sense of community/identity?

Sally: Well, we used to put on a Christmas party at the end of every year and we’d invite the whole street. Unfortunately, the Porsche Brigade, as I call them, aren’t so interested in the community. We used to know everyone here, but it’s changed now.

You used to own the Ponsonby Art Hotel, could you tell me a little bit about the history behind it?

Gerry: In the early 1990s, New Zealand was in a deep recession and there was no decent accommodation in Ponsonby. So we hunted for two years to find a property that we felt we could redevelop into a hotel. It had previously been a family home, and then later owned by a filmmaker. There were all these rumours flying about that there was porn being shot in the house, but we couldn’t prove or disprove any of it.

Finally, what are your thoughts on how Ponsonby’s turned out, are you happy or a bit disappointed?

Gerry: If Ponsonby maintains its sense of community, its sense of openness, and its humanity, then it can still be a great place to live. If it becomes just a rich, exclusive suburb, then it’ll die.

It needs to maintain its soul; it’s still a great place to wander around.

The support that I’ve received since being in a wheelchair has been overwhelming. Young people have come up to me said, “Gerry, it's so great to see you out and about." I can’t place them, but I know their grandparents. (KERRY LEE) F PN

For more information about the history of Ponsonby, please visit iloveponsonby.co.nz

Gerry Hill, Armando Kochi & Sally James photographed at Gusto Italiano

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MOTHER'S DAY - SUNDAY 12 MAY A MOTHER’S LOVE, WISDOM AND WISHES Since our Prime Minister gave birth to baby Neve, motherhood has been thrust into the public eye in a way it never has before.

As mothers, we run the gauntlet of guilt no matter what choices we make, always struggling to maintain confidence in our decisions. It’s a challenge to be the best parents we can be without completely losing ourselves in the day-to-day tasks of parenting or failing in our responsibilities at home or in the workplace.

By finding a way to balance motherhood with her duty as Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern has reinforced the true value and versatility of motherhood in a very public yet accessible way. However, our Prime Minister is not the first mother to juggle a demanding work life with the responsibility of being a hands on parent. This month, we thought it was fitting to talk to some Ponsonby News mothers to find out their most treasured mothering moments, their best mothering advice and what they really want this Mother’s Day.

Helene Ravlich - writer Helene is a writer with over 20 years’ experience in her career covering beauty, fashion and commercial copywriting. As a freelance writer working from home, she needs to strike the balance between work and homelife with 10-year-old son, Wolf, and his dad. “I still do the 3pm walk to school and feel guilty when I have to ask for help as I’m technically ‘just at home’, albeit often on a deadline,” says Helene. It’s a theme common to so many mothers who juggle so much, so often yet still feel they aren’t doing enough either at work or at home with their families.

I asked Helene to tell me her favourite mothering memory and her answer speaks volumes to the huge amount of joy our children give us despite the graft and the guilt. "There are too many to name just one! Most involve the simplest of things – a long cuddle, a secret conversation, a special note.

Just enjoying being with each other, wherever that may be,” says Helene.

Mothering advice is often something we receive without request and Helene has the perfect answer for this. “Don’t take anyone else’s advice – listen to your intuition, your heart, and act in a way that works for you and your child,” she emphasises. “We found the early days so damn hard and resorted to calling on advice from everything from online forums to endless books and friends. In the end it all came down to what made us happy, and usually involved the simplest of actions.”

Helene Ravlich & Wolf (10)

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So what does Helene want for Mother’s Day? Not much really. She’s feeling pretty satisfied. “I have everything I could possibly want – my health, happiness and a beautiful, unique little family. Perrier Jouët Champagne would be nice though! And cuddles, always cuddles,” laughs Helene.

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The world has become so busy and as mothers so many of us are always rushing. Rushing to get everyone ready, rushing to school, rushing to work, rushing to sports activities, rushing to get dinner on so that sometimes in all that forward motion we lose our connection with the present. To keep bringing yourself back to the moment means slowing down. “The kids remind you of this constantly, when you are trying to get somewhere and they are in their own world which looks very different from yours – that old expression slow down and smell the roses sums it up well!” says Angie.

Angie has been running Ripe Cafe for 16 years and since the birth her children has been conscious of the need to get the balance right between work and kids. “So far it hasn’t been too hard and that’s been because I have an amazing team. The biggest challenge is leaving work thoughts at work and, when home, switching roles. I have a car journey which helps with this as it gives me time to chat with friends or listen to music or the great National programme so by the time I am home I have usually let go,” explains Angie.

Like many mothers, Angie does a lot of her work from home as well. “Feeling guilty you're not working so much on site and instead being at home as a mum, too, can play on my mind. I have been clear that I am a mum foremost and haven’t wanted to look back and wish I had spent more time at home,” says Angie.

So what would Angie love this Mother’s Day? “Slippers, slippers, slippers. I love winter and all it brings like great food and warm clothes. Her favourites are the Briarwood Scuffy slippers sold at Dalston in Grey Lynn.

Angie Redfern from Ripe and her two children Sam (6) & Jessica (5)

Helen Wadsworth - co-owner of Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop In a digital age when screen media dominates so many aspects of our lives, books remain a rich source of joy and endearing memories in ways a small screen seldom does. Helen Wadsworth has co-owned the Dorothy Butler Children’s bookshop for threeand-a-half years and, like many parents, finds juggling the responsibilities difficult at times. “Trying to be a great mum and business woman and wife and home-maker all at the same time can be overwhelming,” she explains. But her love of books and her family have helped her manage the balance.

It’s not surprising that among all the amazing things her children do, one standout memory is of reading with them. “I have a very happy memory of reading and singing 'The Wreck of the Diddley' by Fat Cat and Fishface to my kids (aged about three and seven at the time) so many times that they knew it off by heart. They loved sitting down together to read and sing it with each other,” says Helen.

Similarly, Helen’s mothering advice is from a favourite parenting book. "We have a beautiful parenting book in store at the moment called Nuture and it has several one-line parenting gems. One that resonates with me is: Actions speak louder than words. Teach humanity by showcasing humanity,” says Helen.

And what does a book-loving business mum want for Mother’s Day? “If my kids give me a big hug and tell me how wonderful I am, I'll be happy! Ooh and breakfast in bed and an adult book would be great too!” Helen says.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Helen Wadsworth of Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop reading to her son Matthew (10) PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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MOTHER'S DAY SUNDAY 12 MAY

Angie Redfern - Ripe Cafe Our children have a great way of keeping us young and reminding us how important it is to slow down and enjoy just being. Angie from Ripe has a fiveyear-old girl and six-year-old boy to help her do this. “Some of my favourite mothering memories are ones spent on the beaches where I live when hardly anyone is there and the kids are just happy playing. You know those early evening walks on a lovely still beach, with no wind, that just naturally finish off with playing at the park,” says Angie.

MOTHER'S DAY SUNDAY 12 MAY

Anna with her children Felix (17) & Poppy (14) Anna Lim - The Garden Party Gift Shop, Ponsonby Road Anna describes herself as being at the end of her intensive mothering days. Her daughter Poppy is 14 and her son Felix has just turned 17. While we have all heard how precious those younger years are and how quickly time passes, we are often still amazed that time moves so quickly. "They are both pretty self-sufficient and independent, Felix just got hiss restricted licence. My advice is to have fun with your kids while le you can. Obviously you want them to be well mannered and have done their homework, etc, but time flies and suddenly they are older and thinking about leaving home. It’s important to enjoy good times with them. It makes you feel wonderful when you belly laugh withh your children,” says Anna.

Children make us cry, laugh and despair but they also fill us with great pride and one of Anna’s favourite mothering moments was a recent one that did just that. “I was amazed by Poppy who shaved her hair off for charity last month. It was totally her own idea and I felt very proud of her,” says Anna.

Even though it was 17 years ago, Anna still remembers the wisdom shared with her when her son was born prematurely. “The best advice I got when Felix was born, was in hospital from a lovely old nurse with years of experience with babies. She told me never to keep the house quiet or dark for the baby to sleep so they learn to sleep through anything.”

Making family life work when both parents run demanding businesses is something Anna has her own advice on. “Teach your kids to cook,

both the kids cook once a week. They are pretty good cooks and it really helps,” says Anna.

So what does a woman who has a gift shop full of beautiful things want for Mother’s Day? "My kids say I am a nightmare to buy presents for as I have owned a gift shop since before they were born. But every Mother's Day, Poppy gets me a tube of Body Shop Pink Grapefruit hand cream. It smells divine,” says Anna.

For people whose mothers don’t own gift shops, Anna suggests going to the new Garden Party – 130 Ponsonby Road – they have lots of great ideas to make your mum feel special. "Owned and operated by two mothers, we’ve chosen some perfect products that we know your lovely mum will enjoy,” says Anna.

Isabel Pasch - Bread and Butter Bakery and Cafe Owner of the incredible Bread and Butter Bakery and Cafe in Grey Lynn and Little Bread and Butter in Ponsonby Central, Isabel Pasch is the mother of two boys aged 10 and 13. As a business owner, Isabel has often had to sacrifice precious time with her boys when work demanded. “I feel I missed out on a lot of ‘firsts’. Running your own business and raising small children is not very compatible. Luckily my partner has always picked up the slack and has been there for the boys when I couldn’t be,” explains Isabel.

Isabel’s sons Karl (10) and Emil (13)

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Up there with mother guilt is regret, and Isabella feels this keenly when she notes how fast time has past. “I started a business in New Zealand nine years ago, when my children were still very little. It’s hard though, as this time, when PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MOTHER'S DAY SUNDAY 12 MAY

they are little, passes so quickly and you will never get it back. Not spending more time with them is something I will regret until the end of my days. If I was to do it again, I would rather get a nine to five job until they were the age they are now.”

Despite working so hard while her boys were little, Isabel has many fond memories and it’s fitting that one of her favourites is anchored in her passion for baking. “I have always loved baking with my kids at home. Especially for Christmas. We bake all sorts of small Christmas biscuits. Seeing the kids engrossed in this, icing sugar and sprinkles all over the kitchen, little sticky hands, and the kids' excited little faces is wonderful. And although they are not that little anymore, they still love doing this every year.”

So how does a successful business woman manage it? Isabel has a secret weapon, her partner. “I have had the great fortune that my partner has been always very involved with the raising of our boys and much of their good behaviour and attitude is due to his hard work,” explains Isabel.

So what advice does Isabel offer for mothering boys? “My boys have plenty of time for rough and tumble and living out their energies through sport and with their friends. As their mother, I try to be there for them when they need to talk about things that may be difficult to say to another male, and I try and give them plenty of hugs and cuddles because I feel that softness and a place to be unguarded might sometimes be missing from the quite masculine culture in New Zealand.”

This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate our mothers for all the wonderful things they do because we know they will be hard enough on themselves for all the things they don’t get perfectly right. In the words of the glamorous Sophia Loren: “When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child."

It’s not surprising to hear what Isabel would love for Mother’s Day. It’s a series of wishes that is probably common to many mothers of tweens and teens. “A sleep in, a long brunch and a whole day without arguments about devices.”

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MOTHER'S DAY - SUNDAY 12 MAY @ MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING 1. Bittermoon Paddington Coat in Camel and Lemon Tree Marian Dress; 2. Libertine Labrinth Dress & FDJ - Faux Leather Zip Jacket 3. Bittermoon Paddington Coat Cobalt and Lemon Tree Adelaine Dress; 4. Moke Renee Jacket and Lemon Tree Adelaine Dress and Scarf 5. Magazine Split Hem Cape

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MOTHER'S DAY SUNDAY 12 MAY

A MOTHER'S LOVE There is nothing as certain as a mother’s love. We have collected a few ways for everyone to share and celebrate their mothers on 12 May. Personal body products that are kind to the environment, a salon blow wave to make her feel a million dollars, books that she can share with her children, or flowers are always a safe bet.

FABULOUS FAUX FLOWERS

READING TOGETHER THIS MOTHER'S DAY

FABULOUS FAUX FLOWERS, 293 Ponsonby Road, E: anthonyhartesq@yahoo.com M: 021 174 8393, www.fabulousfauxflowers.co.nz

DOROTHY BUTLER CHILDREN'S BOOKSHOP, 1 Jervois Road T: 09 376 7283, www.dorothybutler.co.nz

Whether it be a gift for your mother or loved one, or something stunning for your home or business, you will find something to delight at Fabulous Faux Flowers. Based in Ponsonby, you can choose one of our ready-made arrangements or tell us what you want and our specialised team will create a fabulous bespoke design.

@fabulousfauxflowers

At the Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop, we know how much every mother loves to read to their children. It’s a special time to bond and enter a story world together, creating shared memories forever. Enjoy discovering a book to read together this Mother’s Day.

@dorothybutlerchildren’sbookshop

SHOUT HAIR

ECOSTORE MOTHER'S DAY GIFTS

SHOUT HAIR, 166 Richmond Road T: 09 376 6360, www.shouthair.co.nz

ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz

Treat your mum, to a Mother’s Day gift voucher, so she can choose between either a hair service or an array of gorgeous hair products. Shout Hair is commited to providing caring services and products that optimise hair health. All their products are sulphate and paraben-free and contain high levels of essential oils.

@shouthair

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

@dorothybutlerchildren’s

Ecostore Freemans Bay has you covered this Mother’s Day with lots of luxurious and natural gifts to choose from. Take the stress out of Mother’s Day and select one of our lovingly pre-packed gift sets – pop in store to take a peek! Eco Goodies gift set is a cute selection of ecostore body care goodies.

@ecostorenz

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MOTHER'S DAY - SUNDAY 12 MAY @SABATO While everyday should really be Mother’s Day, why not make the most of the dedicated day and celebrate your mum in an extra special way.

We have the perfect recipe for you to surprise mum with breakfast in bed and it can be made the night before to keep things simple on Sunday morning.

OVERNIGHT FRENCH TOAST WITH CARAMELISED BANANA & MAPLE SYRUP Serves 6 1 sourdough loaf or French stick 20g Lewis Road Creamery butter, softened 4 eggs Pinch of salt 1 cup milk ½ cup cream 1 tsp pure vanilla extract ¼ cup Escuminac late harvest dark maple syrup, plus extra to serve ½ cup Kernelz walnut pieces, roughly chopped 100g Sabato serrano or Pedrazzoli prosciutto 2 bananas, quartered lengthways Cut the bread in 3cm thick slices. Use the butter to thickly butter a baking dish. Arrange the pieces of bread to cover the base of the dish - the bread should be tightly packed with minimal space in between.

To serve, sprinkle the walnuts over the French toast. Place portions of French toast onto serving plates. Top with banana and serrano or prosciutto. Serve with a bottle of Escuminac maple syrup on the side, to pour over. © Recipe courtesy of Julie Le Clerc Make breakfast even more special and serve mum’s French toast on a gorgeous, new ceramic piece from Rachel Carley. We have a beautiful array of colours and designs PN available in-store. Something mum will cherish forever! F For more delicious recipe ideas, visit us in-store or on our website.

SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 8751, www.sabato.co.nz

In a large bowl, lightly whisk the eggs with the salt until the yolks are broken up. Add milk, cream, vanilla and maple syrup and gently whisk by hand until fully combined. Pour egg mixture over the bread, saturating each piece as much as possible. Cover the baking dish and place in the refrigerator overnight, ideally, but for at least three to four hours if overnight is not possible. The longer the bread soaks in the liquid, the softer and more delicious the final result will be.

Next day, preheat the oven to 180˚C and bring the dish of French toast to room temperature. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until bread is puffy and the top is golden brown.

At the same time, toast the walnuts (for approx 10 minutes) until golden brown. Lay the slices of serrano or prosciutto on an oven tray. Top with a second oven tray (to stop the slices curling) and bake for 10-15 minutes, until crisp. Pan fry the slices of banana in a little olive oil for one to two minutes on each side until caramelised golden brown.

HUNGRY & FEELING THIRSTY? We are spoilt for choice!

THERE ARE NOW 254 PLACES IN THE WESTERN BAYS, WHERE YOU CAN EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY.

They are all listed in the Ponsonby Little Black Book... ponsonbynews.co.nz/ponsonby-little-black-book

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

MOTHER'S DAY SUNDAY 12 MAY

@ CARATS

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

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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MOTHER'S DAY - SUNDAY 12 MAY

MOTHER’S DAY: “You don’t need to get me anything, I have everything I need right here.”

We’ve all heard these words before, particularly from our mums around this time of the year, Mother’s Day. Mums are just too nice to admit that they truly do deserve a little spoiling once in a while. They are our support base, our biggest cheer leaders and our friends. Whilst mums argue they don’t need gifts, we are sure they wouldn’t mind a little extra love and attention this Mother’s Day.

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So go on, treat your mum to something special this May. If you are stuck on gift ideas, visit Diamonds On Richmond to view its collection of tennis bracelets, dress rings, earrings and pendants. Or, check out the online Tailored Gift Service to help you find the ideal present.

Who knows, you may even become the favourite child... F PN

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44 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

IT’S A DATE – TIME TO DRESS UP AND GO OUT With so many great cafes, restaurants and bars in Ponsonby and the surrounding suburbs, our readers are spoilt for choice.

Sidart

Selecting the perfect place for any date is easier if you know what the options are. We thought it was our duty to highlight some of the wonderful eateries and drinking establishments right on your doorstep. Stylist Sarah Murphy will also suggest some new looks for the coming season to match just about anywhere you choose to go.

FOR A ROMANTIC EVENING OUT With the glow of summer fading, a romantic night out is always a nice escape from everyday life. It’s a time to get dressed up, leave the kids at home and your work worries behind. Indulge in elegant surroundings with someone special and enjoy divine foods in some of our favourite locations for romantic evenings.

For a truly luxurious night out, the award-winning Sidart, at the Three Lamps end of Ponsonby Road, offers an intimate dining environment and a reputation for producing exceptional cuisine. It’s the perfect excuse to dress up and enjoy quiet conversation without phones or interruptions.

Situated in the tranquil and spacious historic post office on St Marys Road is Augustus, a romantic bistro with an expansive beverage list. The choice of Champagne on their list is impressive, with many wines from the famous Mudbrick Vineyard. The Mudbrick methode traditionelle and rose are both a delightful way to begin an evening.

Cocktails are engineered with precision and, with 19 different gins and 21 choices of premium rum, there are many delectable ways to begin and conclude an evening in style.

The best night for a romantic evening is Friday with both Thursday and Saturday nights typically busier with afterwork drinks and big groups. For refined elegance and breathtaking views, a degustation menu at the Sugar Club is a wonderful choice. The chefs and staff of The Sugar Club create an experience that matches the priceless views.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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What to wear? Sarah says….

Sitting outside doesn’t have to be something reserved for summer evenings, the cooler weather allows us to introduce layers, beautiful knits and long coats. I personally love a long coat, paired with a beautiful knit, be it turtleneck, low v or off-the-shoulder top, with a wide-leg woollen trouser or skinny high-waist jean. A long sleeved dress with the comeback of long boots is always an option, too.

I’m loving the 70s’ vibe that’s been hanging for a few seasons and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere in a hurry.

A NIGHT OUT WITH THE GIRLS Catching up with friends at one of the local bars or restaurants around Ponsonby and Grey Lynn is an easy way to reconnect after a busy week or month. Cocktails at Mr Toms or Mea Culpa are a great way to start the night. Both offer extensive cocktail lists and talented bar staff.

Sipping a delicious concoction poured from fine China at The Gypsy Tea Room, is part of what makes this place a local icon. Its longevity is testament to its charm and ability to be a place where memories are made and then reminisced upon.

When considering where to eat on a girl’s' night out, choosing to go somewhere with real character and soul can make all the difference. Coco’s Cantina on K’Road is full of life and positive energy. Founders and sisters Renee and Damaris Coulter are all about the people, with ethically and locally sourced ingredients and an underlying philosophy that guarantees good food and a great vibe. We also have it on good authority that their Monday Date Night, a threecourse meal with wine and regional food themes, is definitely romance worthy as well as being kind on the pocket.

Often less is more, but that doesn’t always mean less clothing. To me, showing skin doesn’t always equal guaranteed sexiness. On a romantic date, it’s all about confidence especially when it’s a first date, which means feeling comfortable without donning our trackies! Effortlessly sexy and comfortable is an attainable ideal.

Silhouette balances that work for your shape, and beautiful fabrics are important things to consider.

Of course the luxury of silk or cashmere against the skin always feels amazing. Again, a turtleneck layered under a long-sleeved dress or shirt, an oversized knit and voluminous trousers and

coat looks great. Alternatively, a fitted knit and high-waist, figurehugging trousers are a look I love but these aren’t always universally flattering for different shapes, sizes and heights. A compromise to replicating a full editorial fashion look (that may not have the desired effect against your body) could be to have a looser silk shirt or knit with a fitted jean or cropped trouser with a long coat an pump heels if the weather allows.

Bareing the top of your foot gives an elongating effect to your legs.

Alternatively, a wide leg, high-waist trouser with a fine, fitted knit is a winner for those more confident to wear a body hugging top.

Go with what works for your shape. In saying that, like I’ve said, more importantly go with how you feel. There shouldn’t be rules. Guidelines, yes, if you wish to be guided but not rules. Bodies change from season to season, year to year, embrace what works for you on the day with your beautiful, always evolving body!

Invest in quality, timeless fabrics where you can, remembering how many amazing recycle boutiques we have in this area if your budget doesn’t allow for new.

Pictured above clockwise: Zoe & Morgan, Protect Me hoop earrings; Zambesi, Margiela high mexas boot; Mecca, Lilah b. Glisten + glow skin; Mi Piaci, Maria heel; Stolen Girlfriends, leather jacket; Kate Sylvester, Pearl dress

Another fabulous destination is The Vodka Room. It’s not only brimming with personality, it also offers a refreshingly different menu and an impressive array of vodka-based cocktails. With an extensive list of quality vodkas, guests can enjoy shots between courses Russian style.

It’s a place to let yourself be transported by the opulent decor and rich aromas to a nostalgic version of Russia that demands a good time.

Vodka Room

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

Coco’s Cantina

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS Burger Burger

DINNER WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY Sometimes it’s a family affair. You need to go somewhere that can handle the challenges of a bigger group, with younger diners as well as those with specific dietary requirements.

Sometimes it’s all about timing. Picking the right restaurant for a young family can be as much about when you go as where you go. Another Ponsonby institution, Prego, has a reputation for being a great place to dine early with young children. Before the popular eatery is buzzing with groups both large and small, the team at Prego manages to make young guests feel welcome and special.

There are some places that do so many things right. The Butcher’s Son on Jervois Road is just such a place. Whether it’s a quick glass of organic wine in the warm afternoon sun, or an impromptu early family dinner, this innovative vegan restaurant knows how to make guests of all ages and palates feel welcome.

Staff understand their menu so well that they can help the most conservative meat eater or picky younger diner choose something delicious. With colouring-in activities and youthful easy-going staff, the Butcher’s Son is wonderful choice for a family celebration.

Clockwise: Marsha, Bow Blouse; Suprette, Wolf Clutch; Kate Sylvester Snakeskin boots & Rain Coat; Mecca, Hourglass No 28 Lip Treatment

Of course you can’t beat a good burger and the team at Burger Burger has this down to an art. Great for adults and kids alike, this fun burger bar is a great place to eat, enjoy a cold beer, a house cola or one of their wonderful cocktails. With an upbeat atmosphere, and wonderful service this place continues to rock. Ponsonby Central continues to introduce new and exciting eating opportunities, the latest being Food Truck Garage which offers something for just about every tastebud.

The Butcher’s Son The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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Seabreeze From work to play, Sarah says...

Office attire is a thing of the past.

Unless you work in an extremely formal corporate environment, or have a uniform, most industries allow you to be the creator of your daily style. I love this, it gives us all the freedom to create our own vibe and feel. I’m not neglecting the fact that this can be extremely daunting for some – sometimes the ‘weekday uniform’ can be a place of comfort. I feel like people should look at it as a way to convey who they want to be on any given day. We all have days we feel a little more confident than others; seize those days and have fun with your style!

If I have a date with friends or a beau after work, I’ll often wear something that works with sneakers or flats so I can change into heels or boots and transform my look depending on how I’m feeling. Dresses worn with hightop black Chucks for day time, changed to heels for night time is easier than you’d expect.

My car always has a change of shoes, jackets/coats – two things that can turn a look around. In saying that, my car is evidence of an occupational hazard, one or two extras is fine, any more and you’ll have some Marie Kondo-ing to do – the car version.

COFFEE AND BRUNCH Weekend brunch, morning coffee or a working lunch, the options in and around Ponsonby are almost endless. Institutions like Dizengoff have continued to offer good coffee and delicious salmon bagels for 25 years.

After the morning school run, lunch with friends, or something to celebrate, Seabreeze in Westmere always delivers the best experience. The perfect coffee and salmon slider at Seabreeze is the best start to the day. Well and Good does a divine turmeric latte using homemade almond milk that tastes incredible and makes you feel nourished.

And if lunch on the run is the order of the day, Ripe’s delicious salads, upbeat vibe and exceptional coffee are simply the best.

If the origin of what you eat is important to you, Bread and Butter Bakery and Cafe is your custodian of goodness. Its breads are made from certified organic ingredients, often using ancient grains to ensure the goodness of the bread is a foundation for the loaf.

Clockwise: Ruby, Liam Elipse Coat in camel; Suprette, Senso Yabba II sandal; Ruby, Liam Carol silk camisole; Mi Piaci, Maria Heel; Suprette, Camilla+Marc Cassidy Coat

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

As winter gets closer, it's nice to plan lunch dates and evenings out. In Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay and the surrounding city-fringe suburbs, the choices are world class. To find out more about some of the cafes, bars and restaurants we have covered in this story, head to our website and check out the Ponsonby News, Little Black Book.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

EATING OUT - STAY LOCAL This is a good time to remind our readers to stay local and support our local businesses. You may be surprised to know that there are now in excess of 250 cafes, bars and restaurants in Greater Ponsonby. Almost every month a new place pops up...

PANE E VINO AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD AND HOSPITALITY

iVILLAGE @ VICTORIA PARK MARKET

PANE E VINO, 1 Williamson Avenue, E: info@paneevino.co.nz T: 09 360 0263, www.paneevino.co.nz

iVILLAGE, 210-218 Victoria Street West, E: info@ivillageatvictoria.co.nz T: 09 309 4009, www.ivillageatvictoria.co.nz

Pane e Vino welcomes the change of season with a new menu and a special winter ravioli dish. Bring the family and dine alfresco on the rooftop courtyard, staying warm and cozy under heaters and drinking delicious cocktails. Like every restaurant in Italy, we serve daily homemade fresh bread and we use extra virgin olive from Puglia.

Relive the joys of a bygone era; enjoy traditionally cooked Indian cuisine in a rustic setting. Here at iVillage, we bring you food that is quintessentially Indian and original, made with homemade spices and masalas. Don't forget to try the iBullets - our customers come far and wide to try this dish.

@ivillageatvictoria

@paneevinoauckland

@ivillage_at_victoria

@ivillageatvicto

TOKYO CLUB A TOUCH OF YOKOCHO IN PONSONBY

GUSTO MEANING TASTE AND ENJOYMENT

TOKYO CLUB, 4 Brown Street, E: info@tokyoclub.co.nz T: 09 376 8016, www.tokyoclub.co.nz

GUSTO ITALIANO, 263 Ponsonby Road, E: gustoitaliano@xtra.co.nz T: 09 361 1556, www.gustoitaliano.co.nz

We are an 'Izakaya' dining bar, offering 'okocho' laneway dining. The Yokocho market place originates from the alleys between two main streets, where the black markets once traded. Today, they are packed with Izakaya and food stalls serving gastronomic delights, with a homecooked ambience that customers find inviting.

@tokyoclubponsonby

@tokyoclubnz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Inspired by the charm of a classic Italian restaurant, Gusto meaning 'taste and enjoyment' brings the authentic feeling of Italy to guests. The menu focuses on freshly prepared, classic Italian dishes, featuring an excellent range of pasta, seafood, meats and Roman-style pizza.

@gustoitaliano

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photography: Crawford Photography

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

Will McGee, Calla Fraser & Anita LataMuliau

PONSONBY INSTITUTION CELEBRATES QUARTER CENTURY This month, the team at Dizengoff is proudly celebrating 25 years of business. Since opening its doors in 1994, Dizengoff has become an integral part of Ponsonby Road, quoted mostly for its great coffee and friendly service.

Celebrated in many of Auckland’s top cafe lists, it’s not surprising Dizengoff has stood the test of time. In 2015, global lifestyle magazine Monocle granted it the highest accolade by naming it one of its top 50 restaurants internationally.

The secret to the success is a winning formula which hasn’t really changed in 25 years. Much of the menu (which has a Jewish

influence) remains the same and the coffee is still Allpress. There are rumours that many of the dishes were handed down to founder Andrew Paykel, and his business partner Paul Ryan, by Paykel’s Jewish grandmother. Examples of these dishes include Dizengoff’s famous chicken salad which, to this day, remains a menu favourite along with the mushrooms on toast and the salmon and caper bagel.

Dizengoff's famous chicken salad

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Dizengoff's mushrooms on toast

Much of Dizengoff’s charm comes from its location nestled in a heritage building with high ceilings both downstairs and upstairs.

The décor remains minimalist with an industrial feel, with the addition of a few minor improvements. The bathroom has been recently renovated and the cafe has been given a fresh coat of paint, some new lighting and two black fans have also been added, which should provide some cool relief for Dizengoff’s loyal customers during the hot summer months.

One thing that has changed, however, is the men in charge - Ponsonby locals Phil Clark (ex Nourish Group, Better Bar Group) and Andrew Christie who took over the ownership of Dizengoff in December 2018.

“We are proud to be celebrating such a significant milestone of a true Ponsonby icon and of the team we have in place as we move forward into the next chapter,” says Clark.

“Dizengoff is a fundamental part of the morning routine of many Ponsonby locals, so it’s imperative to us that our regulars feel recognised and acknowledged. It’s also important that new customers have a great experience with us, too.

"With this in mind, we’re excited to announce Anita LataMuliau will be back on the coffee machine from May (to the delight of our regulars).

She will also be in charge of the cafe, along with Will McGee, going forward. We will also see the return of Calla Fraser who many people will recognise from the 'old Diz days'. We must also mention that Hau Nguyen, our wonderful, hard-working chef has been in the Dizengoff kitchen cooking everyone’s favourites for 10 years!"

Another welcome addition is artwork by local artist Holly Schroder which we will be showcasing in the cafe next month.

Clark adds: “It’s important for us to stay true to the founders and previous owners’ vision of Dizengoff and to preserve what they created. A cool cafe with great coffee, simple, non- fussy dishes and a great atmosphere. We are going back so that we can move forward with our amazing loyal customers and the new customers we look PN forward to welcoming along the way.” F

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DIZENGOFF, 256 Ponsonby Road, T: 09-360 0108, www.facebook.com/dizengoff.ponsonby

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RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

THE LONG HISTORY OF THE LOAF From the staff of life to everybody’s bellyache, how bread has changed through the ages.

Flour, salt and water - from these humble beginnings bread has risen, travelling in some form, whether pita, pretzel or plait, to all corners of the world. Able to adapt to the climate, lifestyle and culture of an area, bread is universal and, still, as in ancient times, the staff of life.

Thousands of years ago humans discovered and developed the art of growing grain, and Egypt, the world’s first superpower, based its entire wealth on the cultivation of wheat. Still playing an important role in the modern diet, commercial bread is now far-removed from the nutritional powerhouse it once was, and increasing numbers of people find themselves unable to tolerate the modern loaf.

While the Egyptians may well have discovered sourdough fermentation by chance, bread soon became central to daily life, and

Real Sourdough Raises the Bar...

Made with organic ingredients bread is truly the staff of life.

A valuable addition for every meal, breakfast, school lunches and dinner.

bread has been a vital part of society ever since. The development of civilisation can be closely linked to the history of bread making, with archaeologists discovering fossilised bread in many different parts of the globe.

Traditionally, farmers worked in harmony with the environment, but in the years following World War II, the Third Agricultural Revolution, also known as the 'green revolution', took place. Both the industrial and the green revolution also changed the way food was produced.

The slow process of grinding flour through stone mills was replaced by roller mills, which allow easy removal of much of the husk and, with it, valuable nutrients.

Roller mills allowed production of large volumes of white flour over a short time and the refined flour produced was uniform and had greater 'keeping qualities’ than stone-ground wholemeal flour.

Unfortunately, the heat of the rollers damages valuable vitamins and minerals, leaving a product that has very little nutritional value.

Centuries of envying the rich for their white bread and cakes had whipped up an appetite for the ‘fine white soft’ bread, and its ‘ready when you are’ nature fitted nicely with women’s emancipation from tedious housework in the post-World War II era. Naturally occurring yeasts were replaced by baker’s yeast, which worked faster but required added sugar to leaven the bread.

In the early 1960s, British scientists discovered that adding hard fats, chemicals and extra yeast to their low-protein white flour, made a softer loaf that could be baked in a much shorter time yet keep twice as long as traditional bread. Known as the Chorleywood method, it changed breadmaking forever and has become standard practice in commercial bakeries around the world, including New Zealand. (ISABEL PASCH)

Bread and Butter Cafe – 34 Westmoreland Street, West Grey Lynn Little Bread & Butter – Ponsonby Central / www.breadandbutter.nz

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

To continue reading go to: www.breadpolitics.com or www.breadandbutter.nz/blog

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TINA PLUNKETT: PONSONBY CENTRAL

THE HIDDEN VILLAGE

Inspired by the flavours and culture of the food that line the streets of South East Asia, The Hidden Village is bringing the experience of street food to Ponsonby Central. Watch the flames of the wok, and tantalise in the aroma from the charcoal grill. Sit, relax and enjoy, or have your meal to take away.

Welcome to the hood.

We are super excited that we have not one but three new restaurants joining us at Ponsonby Central. Open for lunch and dinner, we have Olas Arepas, The Hidden Village and The Food Truck Garage. Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even harder to decide on where to go and what eat. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little something about the passionate foodies behind the grill and what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see them serving up.

THE FOOD TRUCK GARAGE

Simple, fresh food that tastes good and does you good. We are excited to welcome The Food Truck Garage to Ponsonby Central for those of you who want a fast food done healthy.

The Food Truck started as a TV show that shone a spotlight on New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unhealthy obsession with fast food. Their mission was simple - to create delicious street inspired food jam-packed with nutrients, ethically sourced and uniquely crafted.

If you havHnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tried their food already, come in for lunch or dinner DQG youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll leave with your tummy full, and your mind remorse free.

OLAS AREPAS

Sofia and Maurizio bring you the iconic dish of Venezuela and Colombia, the Arepa. A grilled gluten-free corn meal bun stuffed XQtil it s bursting with fresh ingredients.

Tasty enough as they are, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but ladle on the homemade chimichurri and hot sauce. The kids will love these too <ou can even choose your Arepa colour, green (coloured with coriander and kale) or red (beetroot and chia seeds), or the original.

You may have already tried their Arepas DV their bright yellow food truck has already been a huge success at many festivals, markets and events. However, they wanted somewhere to call home and we were stoked they chose us!

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE? As described by Lauraine Jacobs recently...

“Extraordinary food.”

“Light, delicious and clever.”

“Room is a knockout and service brilliant.”

As owners of Lillius, Fraser and Shannon are very proud of their restaurant and the dining experience they provide for their customers.

This includes providing exciting and unusual dishes for those customers with dietary requirements.

Fraser has developed an ever-changing menu. He enjoys presenting food according to the seasons, currently they have a very strong focus on game.

However, seasonal isn’t just spring, summer, autumn and winter but also dependent on rainfall or sunshine hours. Having awareness of this means they only buy locally, as it is important to them to support those businesses that grow quality New Zealand produce.

They are passionate about zero food waste and fully utilise in-season produce by preserving and re-presenting in a different format later in the year.

For example: The sourdough bread is currently recycled; it is used to make beer, soy sauce, miso and a sorbet. Last year it was even made into an ice-cream.

Their strong desire is and will continue to be an expression of all things New Zealand.

Don’t forget they are open for a fabulous Sunday lunch. F PN LILLIUS RESTAURANT, 19 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, T: 09 217 4069, www.lillius.co.nz

LILLIUS RESTAURANT 19 Khyber Pass Road, Auckland 09 217 4069 www.lillius.co.nz

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

THE R O C K E T S TO R E 2 0 8 P O N S O N BY R D

ATOMIC COFFEE ROASTERS, ONE OF AUCKLAND’S CAFE SCENE PIONEERS We stopped to take a quick coffee break with Atomic Coffee Roasters, one of Auckland’s cafe scene pioneers, Kingsland institution and original 'purveyors of good taste'.

Amongst the bustle, industrial concrete and copper, we asked them about doing things their way - the Atomic approach to coffee, roasting and flavour.

With 26 years of roasting under their belts, the Atomic approach remains true to their roots with espresso blends that are rich, sweet and robust - how espresso was meant to be. Espresso is about maximizing flavour and Atomic has it in spades. All six beans in their flagship Veloce blend are roasted separately before blending, ensuring they get the best out of each origin to deliver trademark complexity in the cup.

The past few years have seen a renaissance in the art of coffee roasting and Atomic has evolved, embracing modern roast technology, meticulous roast profiling with a strong QA focus. The result is cleaner roasting and, coupled with a desire to treat their beans gently, the coffee's unique terroir is preserved, with nuances of roasted nut, ripe stone fruit, chocolate and leather all coming through in your Veloce espresso.

The other vital piece of the puzzle is provenance. All Atomic coffee is traceable to a cooperative or farm, with fairtrade and certified organic blends, giving some assurance to both Atomic and their loyal customers that your morning latte got there only by meeting set ethical and environmental criteria.

Currently there’s a global crisis in coffee with prices at 15-year lows, meaning many coffee farmers won’t cover the costs of production. More than ever, Atomic’s policy to only use fairtrade coffees in their espresso blends feels right - with fairtrade minimums encouraging growers to keep producing coffee. Put simply - if farmers don’t make a living, they’ll stop producing and switch to a more viable crop.

For a full-flavoured coffee hit, visit them at their Kingsland HQ, Ponsonby Road, Shortland Street or Wynyard Quarter stores. F PN www.atomiccoffee.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS Modern Japanese Main Beach Takapuna Beach Bookings essential Ph 09 390 7188 www.tokyobay.co.nz

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

SIDART, Level 1, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz

56 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

5 Fort Lane, CBD T: 09 379 9702 cassiarestaurant.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

SWAGATAM – WELCOME TO i VILLAGE One very good reason to go down to Victoria Park Market is to have a wonderful Indian meal. i Village has been around for the past six years and is run by the delightful and effervescent Dimple and her team.

What’s behind the name? i Village brings you the heart and soul of Indian cooking - straight from the villages where tradition and recipes have remained unchanged and authentic for many centuries. We stand behind our name, i stands for Indian.

We know you have a good wine list, but do you serve any delicious Indian beers?

Yes, we have formulated our own Indian lager and have the people’s choice i Beer on tap. We also have other premium Indian beers available.

Tell us about your menu. What are some dishes you’d recommend?

Customers tell us about their preferences all the time, so some offerings have become signature dishes such as tandoori trio, i Bullets, tandoori whole snapper, lamb shank curry and chicken vindaloo. Our regulars would suggest you try any of these.

i Village looks like a perfect venue for events... tell us about some of those you’ve hosted?

We have been home to some memorable events including a Bollywood night. We have the perfect venue for the celebration of birthdays, anniversaries, weddings. We are popular for team lunches, staff meetings. Some things were never meant to change: i Village remains committed to the old and time-tested ways of Indian cooking. No short cuts, no twists or turns, simply delivering PN Asli and authentic Indian food as it was always meant to be. F

Are you able to cater for diet/food allergies?

Yes, we have a seperate vegan menu and we do cater for patrons with dietary restrictions or allergies - be it for health or cultural reasons.

I Village At Victoria Indian Kitchen & Bar 210-218 Victoria Street, T: 09 309 4009, www.ivillageatvictoria.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE On the 1st of June 2019, New Zealand will be the first country in the world to celebrate Ardbeg Day. At Glengarry Spirits, the Auckland Ardbeg Embassy, we will be fully embracing the theme for this year’s release.

Inspired by Islay’s passion and tradition for festivity, Ardbeg is bringing a dash of carnival colour to the day.

So, what is it exactly? Ardbeg Day traditionally signals the end of the Islay Festival of Music and Malt. The isle of Islay (pronounced Eye-la) is the western-most part of Scotland and home to many distilleries famous for, but not limited to, its peated whisky and friendly locals.

To mark this occasion, Ardbeg Distillery embarks on a global celebration of all things Ardbeg which includes releasing new whiskies each year, which are always limited in nature and only available from Ardbeg Embassies around the globe.

These whiskies are the creative brainchild of the Master Distiller and many have gone on to demand huge sums in the secondary market.

The latest experiment from Dr Bill Lumsden is a whisky rested in exrum casks from the America’s to 'create a flamboyant jamboree of flavours' to match perfectly with the carnival atmosphere on the day.

Being an Ardbeg Embassy is something we at Glengarry hold dear to our hearts, providing an outpost for Ardbeg as part of a global network dedicated to supporting everything and everyone Ardbeggian.

Ardbeg Drum will be released at Glengarry Spirits (54 Jervois Road) on the 1st of June, so get in the spirit with your best carnival outfit, dust off your maracas, listen for the beat of the drums and follow the unmistakable peat aromas to the Embassy for a little taste of Carnival PN on Islay. (LIZ WHEADON) F

E G DAY B D R A SAT U R DAY 1S T J U N E 2 019 ARDBEG CARNIVAL

.5 4

J E RVO I S

R OA D .

This year Ardbeg add a dash of carnival to their Ardbeg Day. They have released a limited edition bottling in Auckland that is retail exclusive to the Ardbeg Embassy at 54 Jervois Rd. Come and join us at Glengarry Spirits on June 1st for food, fun and tastings. Purchase the special Ardbeg, available from that day and only at out Glengarry Spirits store.

ARDBEG CARNIVAL: MUSIC . FOOD . TASTINGS

58 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Experience the magic of Matakana, base yourself at one of our luxurious new Plume Villas and enjoy the superb food and wine at Plume Restaurant. Country life starts here.

Plume Restaurant is an oasis for gourmet travellers, recognised for superb cuisine and as the cellar door for Runner Duck Estate 9LQH\DUG·V Ã&#x20AC; QH ZLQHV 3OXPH 5HVWDXUDQW LV QRZ complemented by Plume Villas, DQ HQFODYH RI QHZ OX[XU\ EHGURRP YLOODV VHW ZLWKLQ ODQGVFDSHG JURXQGV 7KHVH YLOODV VKDUH D VZLPPLQJ SRRO DQG DUH D UHOD[HG VWUROO IURP WKH UHVWDXUDQW 3HUIHFW IRU D ZHHNHQG JHWDZD\ IRU WZR DV ZHOO DV D ZRQGHUIXO YHQXH IRU ZHGGLQJV FRQIHUHQFHV PHHWLQJV DQG SULYDWH HYHQWV For all enquiries telephone 09 422 7915 SCL/PLU2018/30

www.theplumecollection.co.nz

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS INAUGURAL NZ VEGAN SAUSAGE AWARDS 2019 We know there are some fabulous vegan sausage makers in New Zealand and we would like to recognise and reward their excellence.

This June, we are running our inaugural Sausage Awards. To be judged by plant-based Master Chef Aaron Brunet, sausages must be commercially available. Sausages to be judged on 21 June.

What could be more Kiwi than bangers and mash? A few snags on the barbie? Everyone loves a good tasty sausage and we want to show New Zealand that 100% plant-based sausages are tasty, versatile and delicious and introduce them to vegan sausage excellence.

Please write to us to register your entry and to receive competition details.

If you are not a sausage maker, but you know one, please be sure to inform them. Sausages must be commercially available and with us for judging between 18 and 20 June. F PN Contact Amanda Sorrenson, National Coordinator, M: 021 102 7317, www.vegansociety.org.nz

www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz

Retail, restaurants and recreation all on your doorstep Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122; Â&#x2122;

-BSHF TFMG DPOUBJOFE SPPNT BOE BQBSUNFOUT 4FMFDUJPO PG NFFUJOH SPPNT )PNF PG UIF 4VSSFZ 1VC 'SFF DPBDI BOE DBS QBSLJOH )BQQZ )PVS QN QN The Surrey Hotel 465 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland, New Zealand Phone + 64 9 378 9059 Fax + 64 9 378 1464 Email reservations@thesurreyhotel.co.nz www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz

60 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS AFRICOLA HITS THE GRILL Celebrity Chef Sean Connolly has some talented friends in great places.

This winter, his signature restaurant The Grill, part of SKYCITY’s Federal Street dining precinct, is bringing in some of the best - Adelaide’s famous, award-winning Africola restaurant and Ochota Barrels vineyard, for a one of a kind experience of food and wine they swear by.

Situated in the heart of Adelaide is South African restaurant, Africola - the best way to describe it is with a really good swear word, followed by a superlative. The cartoon-esque interior and earthy, unapologetic food of Africola has turned heads within the industry, resulting in it being awarded a hat in the Good Food Guide. Duncan Welgemoed is the South Africa-born co-owner and chef. Having worked for well-known chefs in the UK like Gordon Ramsay, Heston Blumenthal and Michael North, he is currently one of Australia’s most-watched and sought-after culinary talents. Duncan’s good friend Taras Ochota is the co-owner and winemaker of Ochota Barrels vineyard, nestled up in the Adelaide Hills. Ochota’s naturally made wines are available on the beverage menu at Africola.

When asking Sean Connolly why he’d chosen to collaborate with Africola and Ochota Barrels, he replied, “I spend a lot of time in Adelaide and, without doubt, Africola is one of the best restaurants around! It reminds me of The Grill - great, simple product executed well. It’s funky and innovative.

Bringing them to Auckland will be amazing. I can’t wait to get in the kitchen together - it’ll be f#%en magic. We’re bringing over my mate Taras and his Ochota Barrels wine, too. it’s dynamic, natural, no-bullshit involved PN - Ochota’s leading the wine scene in South Australia.” F This spectacular, unapologetic culinary event is not one to be missed... www.skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/the-grill

Saturday 25 May 2019 6.30pm–9.30pm The Grill by Sean Connolly 90 Federal Street $180pp includes a four-course menu with matching wines BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Email: reservations@thegrillnz.co.nz Call: 09 363 7067 R18 for the service of alcohol.

Host Responsibility limits apply.

ochota barrels artisan wines

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

RIPE RECIPES - A THIRD HELPING Angela Redfern and the Ripe Deli team.

IMMERSE YOURSELF The greatest celebration of New Zealand wine is returning for its fourth year.

Immerse yourself in the uncorked world of New Zealand wine, tasting delicious drops from 60 of our best wineries while unearthing the different wine regions. Discover your favourites from the likes of Astrolabe, Elephant Hill, JK14, Gibbston Valley and Man O’ War. Winetopia, presented by Singapore Airlines, is your opportunity to get under the skin of the New Zealand wine scene and discover the colourful personalities that have made this country’s wine their life’s work, try hundreds of lovingly crafted wines and meet the wine makers across all regions of New Zealand. Share a glass with some famous faces and learn from industry gurus including Master of Wine Bob Campbell and renowned Australian wine expert Nick Stock, with tasting seminars to enlighten and enhance your love of great wine.

Pair your sumptuous wines with delicious food offerings, all washed down with sultry, live entertainment. Winetopia is the biggest wine tasting event in New Zealand and a great wine day out.

Ridiculously good value tickets are on sale now for only $32, which includes entry to one session, five tasting tokens, a Spiegelau wine glass and a three-month subscription to The Real Review. F PN WINETOPIA, 14-15 June, Shed 10, www.winetopia.nz

Back by popular demand, the Ripe Deli team has put together a third helping to follow the success of their first two cookbooks.

This all-new collection of recipes celebrates 15 years of business for the Ripe Deli crew and includes all-time favourites as well as exciting new dishes.

Broken up by season, recipes vary from fast, fresh food for busy mid-week dinners to slightly challenging dishes for home cooks who want to push themselves. From salads and vegan dishes to curries and baking, A Third Helping is filled with over 150 recipes for food that soothes, comforts and feeds the soul.

Following the success of their 2010 collection Ripe Recipes, and the 2013 Ripe Recipes A Fresh Batch, the good people at Ripe Deli have whipped up a third serving of recipes you can make at home. Ripe Recipes - A Third Helping is a cornucopia of delicious recipes bursting with flavour and goodness - plus some purely decadent treats just for fun!

New Zealand-born Angela Redfern was raised in England. Her career in the hospitality industry blossomed when she earned a work placement at The Savoy in London. She later worked with Tricia Guild at Designers Guild before returning to Auckland and opening the ever-popular Ripe Deli in 2002. F PN Published by Beatnik Publishing. Hardback, RRP $60 beatnikshop.com www.ripedeli.co.nz

172 – 174 Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn, T: 09 360 6159 www.ripedeli.co.nz

62 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

THERE’S A LITTLE BIT OF WAIHEKE IN PONSONBY Augustus has an extensive wine list enhanced by a thoughtful selection of Waiheke wines.

The Waiheke region is well known for producing acclaimed artisan wines including the award-winning Mudbrick Vineyard whose process of hand picking, hand plunging and gentle pressing reflects the character of its boutique wines.

Man O’ War, Obsidian and SOHO are among the other Waiheke wines on the extensive Augustus wine list. Man O’ War uses meticulous design to ensure that the distinct soil profile and microclimate of each vineyard block is used to best advantage with different rootstocks, clones and planting densities selected to match the specific terroir on offer.

Augustus has the Man O’ War Syrah Viognier 2015 on the wine list is a perfect match with the slow cooked beef short rib or the agria potato gnocci.

The delicious share menu offers diners the perfect after-work snack. The goat’s cheese croquettes are a showstopper – worth skipping lunch for. With seasonal cocktails and the soon-to-be launch of Augustus’s new Local’s Night, there will be ample reasons for our readers to enoy a taste of Waiheke on their doorstep. The team at Augustus is quiety excited about the new Local’s Night and encourages Ponsonby News readers to pop in or message them to get the latest details. It is sure to become a popular local event and a highlight on your dining out calendar.

AUGUSTUS, 1-3 St Marys Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 950 4855, E: reservations@augustusbistro.co.nz www.augustusbistro.co.nz

Let our exquisite three-course signature dish menu tempt you.

Sustainably sourced, seasonal and local ingredients matched perfectly with local and international wines.

1-3 St Marys Road, Ponsonby, 09 950 4855, reservations@augustusbistro.co.nz, augustusbistro.co.nz, The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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RESTAURANTS, CAFES & BARS

PROXIMA RESIDENCES – EDEN TERRACE LUXURY CLOSE TO SOME OF THE CITY’S BEST EATERIES Living at Proxima means the best of city-fringe living is at your fingertips. Take a stroll in a local park, relax with a glass of wine in the afternoon, step out for coffee or enjoy the award-winning, fine-dining experiences and excellent cafes that are on your doorstep.

Eden Terrace is an amazing suburb that sits in the centre of the city fringe and borders Ponsonby, Kingsland, Mt Eden and Newmarket – with the CBD only a few minutes to the north.

This incredible proximity to Auckland's most exclusive suburbs has seen it undergo a wave of new residential development in the past decade. The suburb now has a unique urban quality born from its blend of city and suburban architecture.

Sitting well above sea level on the west-facing ridge of Newton Gully, Proxima Residences offers exceptional sun and views of the city and harbour. It is also home to some of the best cafes, bars and restaurants Auckland has to offer.

64 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

Coffee at Rabbit, Goodness Gracious and Blend. Gailbraith's and the Corner Bar for after-work drinks. The lively atmosphere of Gina’s Italian Kitchen and the very best in fine dining with Sid at the French Cafe are all within walking distance.

Construkt Architects has designed a refined building that will become a new landmark for Eden Terrace. Towering above its urban site, Proxima Residences is a stunning addition to the Newton skyline offering people the ultimate in inner city living, close to shopping, entertainment, parks and the very best in dining out. F PN PROXIMA RESIDENCES, Aaron Cook M: 021 612 642 or Holly Huang M: 021 190 8088, www.proximaresidences.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Stunning Residences To Call Your Home Freehold and in the heart of Eden Terrace.

An easy stroll to Ponsonby, the City Centre and Mt Eden Station.

Sunny open plan living with generous size balconies and stunning views.

Well appointed with European appliances and designer kitchens.

Enjoy convenience, security and the very best of city fringe living.

Now selling (off plans) For an information pack or to find out more about this exciting new property please Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Impression contact sales@proximaresidences.co.nz.

Aaron Cook 021 612 642 a.cook@barfoot.co.nz

Holly Huang 021 190 8088 h.huang@barfoot.co.nz

proximaresidences.co.nz

GARY STEEL: VEG FRIENDLY

Tree nuts – food from love For every genuinely unique and innovative eating establishment in Auckland, there must be a hundred interchangeable, identikit cafes and restaurants that take few risks and go with completely clichéd ideas about food. And, of course, it’s the same around the world.

Given that stereotypical scenario you might think - with the profusion of vegan cafes in the city - that the difference between them doesn’t amount to much. I mean, how much variation in plant-based cuisine can there be, anyway? And surely the big difference between venues is design and fit-out and maybe service rather than the food that’s being served. You would be very, very wrong.

I don’t venture up to Parnell too often because there’s plenty to keep me occupied and excited from a plant-eating perspective in Ponsonby and Grey Lynn, so it’s taken me far too long to check out the rather amazing Kaiaroha (Maori for 'food from love') on Parnell Rise. And when I did finally make the effort, I couldn’t find it! A quick phone call solved the mystery: while it’s listed as 100 Parnell Road, the entrance is actually down Garfield Street.

Kaiaroha is in a rather austere, tall-ceilinged, modern building - a very cool space beautifully counteracted by the warmth of the staff and the wonderful array of drool-inducing home-cooked goodies in the display cabinet. It was a very quiet Tuesday lunchtime and the only chatter came from the industrial noise of the giant refrigeration units and the various mixing machinery in the kitchen. I hope it gets much, much busier than this because the food is obviously made with love and pride and deserves to be eaten!

The uniqueness of Kaiaroha pivots on its emphasis on cultured cheese substitutes and the fact that it’s a deli-cafe with the aforementioned fridge full of meals that are designed to be taken away. The takehome and heat-up vegan meal idea is a great one because it’s still hard to find meat-free, night-time restaurants and sometimes you

just want to eat at home but haven’t got time to cook, and My Food Bag just doesn’t tick the right boxes.

As a cafe, it’s Kaiaroha's own brand of nut-based ‘cheeses’ that really distinguishes it, along with a menu that gives pride of place to sharing plates for two. I’m really looking forward to going back and trying the aged nut cheese platter for two ($44) with a selection of aged nut cheeses and cashew cream cheese with toast, capers, grilled and fresh seasonal produce, pickles and chutney. I hope it’s as good as it sounds!

Today my friend opted for the Buddha bowl ($20.50) with Kaiaroha pesto, pumpkin and chickpea wholefood patties and ancient grains, crispy green salad and a choice of dressings (he chose satay rather than herb, probiotic cashew cream cheese or Asian maple sesame).

He loved it.

Me? I couldn’t go past the black bean jalapeno nachos ($18.50) with cashew cream cheese dressing, salsa verde sauce, crispy corn chips and coconut sour cream. And I have to say it was scrumptious!

While I’m still not convinced that coconut is a totally successful dairy replacement (it’s such a distinctive, strong flavour) the nachos as a whole was spectacularly tasteful and plentiful.

Like Little Bird Organics (raw food) and The Butcher’s Son (‘chickun’ and fancy burgers), Kaiaroha has its own unique spin on ‘plantbased’ and its collective heart is in the right place with its intention to provide organic food where possible, so my advice is: get up to PN Parnell and eat the good food! (GARY STEEL) F

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

66 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

NZ VEGETARIAN SOCIETY’S 2019 THINK KIND COMPETITION Entries are now open for the 2019 Think Kind Competition! The annual competition is run by the NZ Vegetarian Society, and it is open to all currently enrolled primary, intermediate and secondary-aged students.

Students can use their unique talents to help the animals, by: • writing something (like a poem) • drawing something (like a poster) • creating something (like a short film) • starting something (like a petition)

Think Kind is a fun way for students to: • learn about the food they eat and the impact of their choices on their health, the environment and animals • gain skills in research, media or leadership

The possibilities are endless! We encourage students to surprise us.

• win great prizes for themselves and their school NZ Vegetarian Society President Julia Clements says, "The world needs more kindness. Last year we had children expressing themselves through hundreds of different projects, like letter-writing campaigns, poster making, speeches, videos, holding stalls, etc, and the children learnt about how their actions can make a change. The students were then able to share their learning with friends and family. It’s very exciting when whole communities get behind the competition, and everyone enjoys voting for their favourite project in October!"

National Office Coordinator Viktória Lencsés Spear says: "The best projects are the ones that give a clear understanding of the topic.

I love reading informative essays, short stories about animals, looking at drawings and watching creative videos. I would love to see more action projects. My favourite entry so far was a hip hop video about healthy eating - the song and performance were original, creative and catchy, while the lyrics included some good facts."

Every student who enters will receive a certificate and a prize. The overall winner will be determined by a people’s choice vote and will be announced on 1 October, World Vegetarian Day. The entry that wins the People’s Choice Award will receive $1000 for their school.

Sponsors include Hell Pizza, Proper Crisps, Goodness Me, Linda McCartney, and New Way. Go to www.vegetarian.org.nz for guidelines. Students must PN submit their entries online by 12 August. F If you have any questions, please contact us at info@vegetarian.org.nz.

Because we all deserve freedom SAFE helping animals out Help us fight cages The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY?

Autumn roundup Here we go with some recommendations for the cooler weather and hearty indoor dining with the heat pump on.

Matakana Estate Matakana Pinot Gris 2017 Again - a very slightly reductive funky nose of citrus, minerality and grassy herbs. A dry style with a mouthful of poached pear, Braeburn apple, a hint of anise and a lengthy, very dry finish. Great aperitif wine.

It could very well be a blend from different regions. Smells like pineapple and peach with a hint of spicy oak. Crisp and fruity with toasty spiced oak and pineapple, stone fruit and ripe pear, with a clean finish. Match with seafood.

Pegasus Bay North Canterbury Chardonnay 2017 Okay, I’m not a fan of the ‘reductive’ funky chardonnays. But this is a stunner. It does have that initial nasal hit of struck match thing, but that gives way to toasty oak, crème brûlée and grapefruit. In the mouth it’s poached pear, toffee apple, canned peach, blond tobacco and mandarin, with a long finish. Creamy chicken or pasta.

Matakana Estate Marlborough Pinot Noir 2017 Pale brick red in the glass. Smoky, spicy aromas plus black cherry and plum. Flavours of red cherry, toasty oak and tar, with a hint of red summer berry fruit compote and cranberry. Dry finish. Great with lamb or ratatouille.

Soljans Estate Fifth Generation Series Kumeu Chardonnay 2016 Delicate and elegant wine with a nose of yeasty brioche, stone fruit, vanilla with a hint of herbaceous fennel. Rich and complex palate of canned peach, fresh pineapple and almond toffee, with a creamy and lengthy dry finish. Very classy and expressive of the Kumeu clay minerality. Roast chicken, veal or cheese dishes.

Undivided ‘Vin De France’ Chardonnay 2017 Great value bargain chardonnay from France with a screw top. Vin De France pretty well means nothing as to where it came from.

Vergence Red by Pegasus Bay North Canterbury 2017 Dense, deep garnet red in the glass. Tar, damp earth, black currant and pot pourri aromas. Flavours of cassis, blackberry truffle, black olive and poached tamarillo with medium tannins and long finish.

Match with venison or rich tomato-based Italian dishes.

Saint Clair Gimblett Gravels Hawkes Bay Origin Merlot Dusty aromas, with plum and pot pourri. Cherry and plum, full bodied and fruity. Persistent tannins and a lengthy finish. One to put away for a few years. Roast beef or lasagne. (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.

FINE WINE & FOOD TOURS “No. 4 Auckland Food & Drink” – TripAdvisor Your host, Phil Parker wine writer.

Boutique tours for small and large groups.

E: Phil@finewinetours.co.nz

68 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

www.finewinetours.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FACES @ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET Trang and Pritesh can be found at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market, behind the coffee truck in the carpark.

How long have you been in New Zealand, and what brought you here?

Trang: I’ve been here 13 years. I came from Vietnam to Whangarei High School for year 12 and never left. I ended up doing a PhD in food science.

preservatives). People with gut issues tell us that they feel lighter after eating our food.

Pritesh: I’ve been here eight years. I had been working as sous chef at a luxury hotel in Mumbai and decided to come here for the adventure.

How does your zero-waste philosophy flow through to your business?

‘Refuse' is the most important step, but it isn’t always easy. One of our suppliers insisted on using plastic bags when they sent ingredients to us, so we now go to them and collect the ingredients to avoid that plastic.

How was it finding jobs in New Zealand?

Trang: After finishing my PhD, I worked at Goodman Fielder until I took maternity leave for the birth of our daughter.

Pritesh: At first, it was tough getting work here. I was often told I was over-qualified for chef work but eventually I got a string of chef roles: La Rosa, Penelope, The Food Store, Rydges, The Grill and Auckland Fish Market.

How did becoming parents change your views?

It really got us thinking what the world will be like for the next generation. We started practising a zero-waste lifestyle.

And then we started learning about plant-based diets and how they are important for good health and the environment. Trang did some research and found that plant-based diets are much better for children.

How did you get the idea for your vegan patties?

It’s hard to cook when you are looking after a baby, so we started making a rudimentary version of the patties. We used to give them to friends when we went to visit for dinner. They were always popular - our friends encouraged us to make them into a business.

Apart from tasting great, what makes the patties healthy?

Our products can help people on plant-based diets get all the essential nutrients. Our products contain nine essential amino acids, good dietary fibres and good fatty acids. We designed our patties to be free of all the common allergens (soy, nuts, gluten, sesame,

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

We are committed to making good food that is good for health and better for the environment.

We scrutinise every food source and make sure that they give us minimum or compostable packaging. To avoid preservatives and have a reasonable shelf life, we need to vacuum-wrap our patties, but we hated having to use plastic. Finally, we have found, and will be one of the first companies to use, a compostable vacuum bag for our patties. Our outer boxes are recyclable and printed with plantbased inks.

What part has the market played in your business?

We have met lots of customers who have become loyal buyers of our patties. We have been surprised how committed they have been to us. And our two-year-old daughter loves coming to the market - it helps that there is a playground and other children to entertain her.

Earlier this year you visited your families in India and Vietnam. What was it like visiting India?

Trang: Highly organised chaos! Mumbai was so different. There were people on the motorways. I kept saying “that man is going to die” and Pritesh laughed and said “no, he won’t.” The school buses were so crowded that they don’t properly stop. The buses just slow down, a few people jump off and then the kids jump on. It was a relief to go to Vietnam after that - Vietnam seemed so peaceful in comparison.

Pritesh: I used to think it was normal. When I first came to New PN Zealand, I used to wonder where everyone was. F www.glfm.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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1. Local resident Anna Chiesa sent us this photo telling us, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is my friend Donata, who came to New Zealand to visit for a month last year and has gone back home to BOSTON. She would be over the moon if you could publish it."

2. Dianne Hill from Pt Chevalier on a Swamp Tour spotting alligators in the Bayous of NEW ORLEANS. 3. On board Natchez the paddle steamer, NEW ORLEANS. 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

It no longer matters if you're in Paris, Prague, Perth or Palmerston North, if you're 'homesick' for PONSONBY, read your monthly dose of Ponsonby News online.

Visit www.ponsonbynews.co.nz to view our e-mag...

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TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

JAPAN - SEE WITH ALL YOUR SENSES Japan is the flavour of the year...

With the Rugby World Cup and Olympics - the two major events coming up, you may have heard of Tokyo, sure. But here’s what else you shouldn’t miss in Japan.

Taste: The food at Tapas Molecular Bar, Mandarin Tokyo With only eight diners and two chefs, one of which is acclaimed Ngan Ping Chow (famed for his celebrated molecular cooking) the Michelinstarred restaurant on the 38th floor of Tokyo’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel, is theatrical fine dining. Part show, part tapas-inspired delicacies, Japanese dishes are prepared before your very eyes and delivered dramatically. Observe a world-class chef while blowing smoke out of your nose from a dry-ice inspired dish. Book months in advance.

Touch: The sand at Sunset Beach, Ishigaki Island As part of the Yaeyama archipelago, Sunset Beach is on Ishigaki Island. Fly in from Tokyo and you can go from urban to Utopia in just over 3.5 hours. With a beautiful beach and a semi-tropical location in Japan’s south, the sand is platinum white and the emerald sea is perpetually inviting. Of course, Sunset Beach also offers the optimum spot to watch the sun sink into the East China Sea. See: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park commemorates all those affected by the 1945 Hiroshima atomic bombing; the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack. The park comprises several memorials and

monuments, notably the skeletal remnants of a bombed-out hall known as The A-Bomb Dome, as well as a concrete Cenotaph inscribed with the names of all known victims. And then there’s the Flame of Peace; set to burn until all the world’s nuclear weapons are destroyed.

Smell: Cherry blossom Japan’s pastel pink cherry blossoms smell as good as they look. While the trees seldom bear fruit, the blossom flourishes every spring, and with it comes an intoxicating floral scent. The Japanese celebrate sakura (cherry blossom) with hanami, literally 'flower viewing' celebrations which take place in March and April. Locals organise flower appreciation picnics under the blossom, sitting beneath the bubblegum petals and sipping on Sakura Pepsi. For a limited time, even the cola’s pink.

Meet our in-house Japan expert, Todd Devine. Come and talk to him for those inspiring ideas and amazing tips. F PN

HOUSE OF TRAVEL, Three Lamps, 340 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 5760, Email: ponsonby@hot.co.nz, www.houseoftravel.co.nz/hot-stores/auckland/ponsonby

COME IN AND MEET THE TEAM A T H O U S E O F T R A V E L P O N S O N BY

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ROSS THORBY: SEA FEVER The approach to Nuku’alofa was very different to that of our entry into Samoa diarized in last month’s column.

As the sunlight broke through the early dawn, it revealed a horizon with low-lying coral reefs and atolls that make up the archipelago island nation of Tonga. Some islands have a few lights scattered on their meagre form, others are dark and uninhabited.

So close and yet so far distant in its creation to that of volcanic Samoa, this country is low-lying and flat, with each island covered in a variety of palm trees and tropical plants hovering just above sea level.

She might be a relatively poor country of only about 100,000 residents, but they will survive this and future cyclones. It’s the planet’s global warming and rising sea levels that they won't be able to fight and it is predicted that the residents will soon have to consider needing to relocate to nearby Samoa, New Zealand or even further afield within the next century. For a nation very attached to its land and culture, this will be a devastating blow but, in the meantime, you couldn't hope to find a happier and friendlier populace - unless you were playing rugby against them.

Ancient fishing vessels passed by, as the pilot vessel caught up with us in the harbour and the pilot and his agent boarded. The flat landscape of the water making the step from his boat to ours an easy movement. The ripple of our wake barely breaking the surface.

So, after a terrific display put on by the Tongan Tourism Board complete with dancers, singers and even a haka, we dropped our lines and headed out into the Tongan sunset - our future a little more secure than that of this beautiful island. (ROSS THORBY) F PN

By the time we berthed, a tropical shower had formed overhead then briefly settled over the government buildings just beyond the reach of the port entrance. From the height of the Lido deck onboard, we could look right out across the island, over the tops of the buildings, numerous palm trees and all the way over to the other side of the island - all without the obstruction of a single hill.

The moist air surrounding us was mixing with the humid heat from the sea so readily that, within a few minutes of leaving the air-conditioned comfort of the ship, I was sweating like Paul Manafort before the Grand Jury.

Global warming is a real threat here. The sea levels will only have to rise a metre and the whole nation will be under water. A lot of the outer islands in the group already expect to be completely under water within 100 years. Flooding and cyclones are a constant threat.

Last time we visited was 2017 and the country was grieving for the Queen Mother, Halaevalu Mata'aho.

Swathed in wreaths and ribbons of purple and black, the town was a backdrop for a country obviously in mourning for the monarch's mother. But life goes on and today we were greeted with smiles and "Malo e lelei”, the traditional greeting, by well-dressed and smartly groomed school children from a well-ordered society.

Cycloned damaged Free Church of Tonga

Such happy and brave faces considering what the island endured only last year.

One of the buildings that we had visited when we were here last, was the beautiful 100-year-old 'Free Church of Tonga'. Within a year, Cyclone Gita had hit with 230km per hour winds and the stone structure in its direct path suffered no less than the same devastation that the rest of the island suffered.

Even today, its ornately carved pulpit and fine wooden interiors are poking out though the broken tiles from the roof and the shattered remains of its stained-glass windows bear testimony to the island’s sorrow. Other churches throughout the island suffered similar fates, but they have been able to rebuild with donations from their congregations. This magnificent 100-year-old stone church in the middle of town is enduring a similar fight to that of our own Christchurch Cathedral in New Zealand and sits here forlorn, awaiting an uncertain future. Also like our own Christchurch, the island a year later still shows the scars and damage of nature’s fury.

But Tonga is a resilient and religious country and the town today, although scarred and battered, is full of smiles and welcomes, the market full of fresh produce and product. Everywhere you look are smiles upon smiles on happy faces.

Tongan dancer

72 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

PALACES OF THE RAJ India’s vast empires and royal history have left a legacy of incredible palaces and mansions.

While many structures have been ruined, some still stand to tell the tale of India’s rich history. Best of all, some have been converted into luxurious palace hotels, each with their own unique charm and character. Every visit to India should include at least one indulgence.

Here are a few of our favourites.

of Jodhpur, its 347 rooms mean there is plenty of space to also house an opulent hotel! Relax in your sumptuous suite, or enjoy a spot of tennis, a swim in the indoor pool or enjoy the impressive spa. Vintage car enthusiasts can visit the gallery showcasing the royal family’s prized collection.

The Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur Set in the middle of Lake Pichola with the Aravalli Mountains as a backdrop, the Taj Lake Palace presents a picture-perfect scene.

Built between 1743 and 1746 as a royal summer palace, the Taj Lake Palace serves as the perfect conclusion to a journey around Rajasthan. The rooms are just as stunning as the exterior. The Chandra Prakash Suite boasts decorative gilt mouldings, sculpted marble columns, and fine fretwork screens which impressed even the Maharaja who held court in this very room in the 1930s.

Nadesar Palace, Varanasi Located in one of the oldest inhabited cities on the planet, Nadesar Palace has hosted royalty and statesmen since 1845. With just 10 rooms, it has an air of exclusivity, and if you’re feeling regal you may wish to arrive at the entrance in the hotel’s traditional horse and cart. Given its size, the service is very personal, and a haven to retreat to after viewing the chaotic nightly Ganga Aarti down by the sacred River Ganges.

The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur The grand architectural masterpiece that is the Rambagh Palace was once a residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Set in the heart of the Pink City, the palace is an oasis from the hustle and bustle, with 47 acres of perfectly manicured gardens. Wind up the day’s activities in the sophisticated charm of the legendary Polo Bar. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur stands the golden sandstone Umaid Bhawan Palace. Still a residence of the royal family

LUXURY PALACES OF INDIA

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai Opened in 1909, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is not strictly a historical palace but it is still a grand hotel with a rich history and an interesting architectural design. Walking through the hallways of the hotel you can check out the many famous faces who have stayed here before, from prime ministers and presidents to rock stars and Bollywood actors.

There are many other less grand but equally delightful converted palace hotels in India, which offer a unique level of character second to none. We highly recommend you stay in at least one. Soak up the atmosphere and you’ll be transported to the days of the Raj. Gin and tonic anyone? (CAROLINE CLEGG, WORLD JOURNEYS) F PN

Live like a Maharaja, staying in some of India’s most beautiful and opulent palaces. Tour Delhi, the Taj Mahal and colourful Rajasthan, checking in to the 475 year old Samode Palace, the Maharaja of Jaipur’s Rambagh Palace, and Udaipur’s stunning Lake Palace.

11 DAYS from $7,772pp (share twin)

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

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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FASHION + STYLE THE HUMBLE SNEAKER

@ LARSMART

It can take us from the sports arena to a fashionable night out, it’s comfortable, supportive, reliable and constantly innovating.

It’s fresh in its vintage form and refreshing in its modern iterations - it’s the sneaker.

A beautiful blend of utilitarian comfort and fashion disruption, the sneaker in various forms has worked its way into high fashion and doesn’t look like it is going anywhere in a hurry.

Fashion icon and editor of Vogue, Anna Wintour, says “Sneakers! And more Sneakers,” when asked what will define style in 2019. New York Times Chief fashion critic Vanessa Friedman, despite believing the sneaker trend wouldn’t last, says, “Once you trade in your stilettos, it is very hard to go back."

The choices are endless, from classic Converse high tops to vintage Nike Air Force Ones.

Brands like Adidas’ Y3 range and Nike’s AWOK Air Jordan find ways to bring designer fashion luxe to the forefront. Luxury brands have either collaborated with pop culture icons or added their own twist to the humble sneaker, seeing it become a mainstay in the world of high fashion.

Some believe the sneaker renaissance is just one part of a movement liberating women from unforgiving and uncomfortable social constructions. A footwear trend giving them a greater range of comfort with style. In her new blog, Anna Wintour shared her belief that the new ‘grounded’ footwear movement is long overdue and shows fashion is in step with women’s need and right for comfort with style. A fashion #metoo moment.

Ponsonby News readers in search of some grounded style are fortunate with many stores selling the humble sneaker in and around the area. Knowear on Ponsonby Road stocks a vast array of brands like Yeezy, Reigning Champ, Ransom, Adidas, Converse and more. With amazing sales, this store, with its friendly service, will see you walking away in stylish sneaker comfort in no time. Another, not that far from Ponsonby is Eden Shoes, offering a diverse range of brands with the latest street-wear styles for all ages.

Local fashion boutiques like Karen Walker, Kathryn Wilson, Workshop and Zambesi all offer luxe sportswear options for the fashion-forward sneaker lover. And of course there is the more traditional Shoe Clinic store on Ponsonby Road, dedicated to finding the perfect sneaker to fit the demands of your feet.

Since 1982 when the Nike Air Force One crossed over from high performance sports shoe to cultural icon, it was obvious the humble sneaker was destined for great things.

It’s just about finding the right pair to take you on the journey.

@ EDEN SHOES

LARSMART, 543 Blockhouse Bay Road, Blockhouse Bay, T: 0800 5277 6278, www.larsmart.co.nz

Huge Range of...

Possum Merino Accessories and Garments LarsMart 543 Blockhouse Bay Road Blockhouse Bay 0800 5277 6278 www.larsmart.co.nz

110 Mount Eden Rd

EDEN SHOES 09 638 3401

1. Dr Martens 1461 smooth 2. Julius Marlow brogue boot 3. Puma smash sneakers 4. Converse optical white sneakers 1

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EDEN SHOES, 110 Mount Eden Road, T: 09 638 3401, www.edenshoes.co.nz

74 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE @ ZEBRANO Step boldly into winter... a multitude of meticulous prints and subtle hues.

Stay warm in comforting layers of cotton and merino and make a statement in enchanting forest, vibrant cherry and cute gingham checks. Let your wardrobe do the talking this season with fashion forward Curate, Obi, Chocolat, Euphoria, Mela Purdie, Jason Lingard, Megan Salmon and more.

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1. Jason Lingard Escape Dress 2. Chocolat Slip Knot Hoody $389 3. Curate By Trelise Cooper High Baby Top $227 4. Curate By Trelise Cooper High Nice N Easy Dress $227 5. Nineteen46 Liberate Cape $199 6. Obi Spiro Ponti Coat $457 7. Mela Purdie Artisan Hoodie $369 7 5

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

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PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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FASHION + STYLE @ GEORGE HARRISON

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VERSACE COLLECTION 1. Versace Collection brings a democratic spirit, boasting defiant attitude. It features many of the qualities people have come to love from Versace. This new arrival showcases their legacy through Baroque and Grecian keys mixed with metal tones.

2. The Versace tracksuit, subtle and obvious. The full ensemble embellished with namesake logo tape.

3. The look that will turn heads. The sweatshirt is printed in reflective gold and silver Baroque backed with Greek key symbols. The whole look is pulled together with the faded denim gold jeans.

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VERSACE JEANS 4. A collection with a fresh attitude, Versace Jeans is the more casual expression of the Versace DNA. Letting the Versace fan dress with modern style even during their ‘me time’ and for sporty and social occasions.

5. The Versace Jeans Bomber Jacket features the season’s signature Baroque motif finished with an artistic twist with patchwork geometric shapes. The jacket is reversible into a jet black for keeping down.

6. The sweatshirt is embellished with gold typography backed in a military-toned patchwork. The track pants is obviously Versace with the gold Baroque to the side.

GEORGE HARRISON, Flagship Store: 25 Elliott Street, Auckland Central, T: 09 366 7788, www.georgeharrison.co.nz

76 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

AN OCCASION TO REMEMBER Established more than a century ago, Sibuns Funeral Directors & Advisors has long been recognised and valued as one of Auckland’s leading funeral directors.

After the death of a family member or friend, it is important to know that you can depend on experienced, professional people to make all the arrangements to ensure the day of the funeral flows smoothly. It is also important that you choose the funeral ceremony that is right for you and your family. The Sibuns' team can guide you through all the decision making and the choices available, and will take care of all the details if you wish.

Families seeking meaningful services appreciate the tradition and attention to detail that the staff at Sibuns are proud of. The calibre of the team, from the caring support staff to the qualified and experienced funeral directors, ensures every family’s requirements will be met down to the last detail, easing stress and grief at this most difficult time.

While keeping these traditional values, Sibuns also recognise the changing attitudes different generations have towards funerals and the increasing preference for a more modern approach.

Over recent years, families have shown an increasing wish to be more involved in the planning process and preparation for the day.

Our job is to support and meet all the family’s requirements, whether it be for a full and comprehensive funeral service, or a small and private farewell.

As befits Sibuns' history and tradition, the funeral home is located in a timeless, turn-of-the-century home – standing as a landmark in Remuera and overlooking the eastern bays.

The tastefully refreshed facilities include a small personal chapel and spacious sitting rooms for families who wish to talk with the funeral directors, or who wish to come and view their loved one.

Sibuns Funeral Directors & Advisors are members of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand (FDANZ) and are pledged to uphold the highest professional standards, meaning peace of mind for families and ensuring that saying farewell for the last time will be an occasion to remember. F PN

SIBUNS FUNERAL DIRECTORS & ADVISORS, 582 Remuera Road, Remuera, 09 520 3119, www.sibuns.co.nz

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVIING, THINKING + BEING

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LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT Contact martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz www.ponsonbynews.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

WESTERN SPRINGS UPDATE The Resource Consent hearing on Western Springs Forest closed on Monday 15 April 2019.

We are now waiting for the Commissioners’ decision.

Submitters were back making submissions to Waitemata Local Board on Tuesday 16 April in support of Board Member Rob Thomas’s Notice of Motion that the board acknowledge the Hearing Commissioners' view that the project must not prioritise tree removal over protecting, enhancing and restoring the Significant Ecological Area. He is also asking for the board to direct Council Community Facilities to commission an independent and comprehensive Ecological Management Plan for the area.

This has never been done which is shockingly irresponsible given the importance and sensitivity of this forest SEA. The majority of the WLB were not willing to consider taking a leadership role on this issue until after the Commissioners' decision.

Let us remember, this plan proceeded to Notified Resource Consent on the decision of WLB. Having set the process in motion, when it was discovered that Community Facilities’ plan is deeply flawed, not following arboricultural or ecological best practice and being driven by a bunch of opportunists, the Local Board is now dancing around a pin-head unable to make a decision.

My submissions to the board related to a document I recently found in the Auckland Council archives. Produced by the NZ Ministry of Forestry in December 1988, it considers the very questions that are exercising the Commissioners.

The conflict between the retention of the forest, the public safety issues and the destructive nature of logging.

The Ministry of Forestry knew about clear-felling practices and had experience of pine forest management. Community Facilities and its experts do not. Unsurprisingly the report reaches a very different conclusion.

Unlike Community Facilities, the Ministry of Forestry proceeds with the overall objective to preserve and “perpetuate the forest and maintain its natural and aesthetic values.”

It looks at all the options, status quo, clear-felling, and two types of thinning and concludes “Clear-felling would result in a total loss of the aesthetic and natural values for at least the next 10 years while the forest regrows and then it would take a further 10-20 years to mature before the forest structure that exists at present begins to reform.”

Thirty more years of understory and biodiversity development takes that assessment to 50-60 years before the forest structure that currently exists begins to reform.

80 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

The report recommends, as have the residents, the “Removal of the obviously unstable trees and a sign warning people of the dangers of being in the forest especially in high winds is considered adequate protection for the public.”

One board member raised objection that health and safety requirements had changed since 1988. However, since 1988 no sign has been erected, the council has not complied with the recommendation in this report let alone its health and safety obligations.

Another legally qualified submitter explained to the board that they needed only ensure they do their due diligence to comply with their obligations. Given that submitters, alone, have had three highly qualified arboriculturalists looking at this forest, it is quite clear that due diligence has been done.

The importance of this Forest Significant Ecological Area grows by the day. This week saw the publication of the new Government stocktake ‘Environment Aotearoa 2019’ which demonstrates that New Zealand’s environment is in trouble.

Forest & Bird's chief executive, Kevin Hague said of the assessment of the environment’s overall health, "things are very bad."

Auckland’s precious environment is currently under attack by lax Auckland Council environmental regulation, no protections and management by inadequately qualified opportunists who are ‘significant players’ in destroying Auckland’s ‘protected’ urban forest canopy.

By removing an SEA without proper process, council is responsible for the potential destruction of three 3 x 400-500-year-old kauri trees in Titirangi. One is vital for research purposes for kauri dieback.

Auckland’s large exotic trees are also habitat for our highly endangered long-tail bats and the bat management plans being proposed by council on the resource consent applications do not follow bat management best practice. Council is leading the charge in destroying our native biodiversity. I have seen bats on North Head.

Going forward, we want to see council recognise a greencorridor for Auckland’s biodiversity. And to include Western Springs, Meola Reef, Seddons Fields, Jaggers Bush, Meola Creek, the schools, Chamberlain Park, Fowlds Park and Arch Hill Reserve. We want a green bridge to reconnect Chamberlain Park with Western Springs lakeside reserve and the whole area to be declared a Biodiversity Focus Area.

We have to do this now for future generations of Auckland residents and for our very vulnerable endangered biodiversity. (WENDY GRAY)

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS WHAT YOUR STARS HOLD FOR MAY

Taurus (the Bull) 21 April 21 May Whatever feeling you have, especially if it’s a gut feeling, you should go with it. If you do come up against anything that you’re unsure of, get advice. You are surrounded by knowledge.

Gemini (the Twins) 22 May 21 June You might think that what you have to say isn’t being heard. But rest assured you are being heard and understood. You also have this way at looking at things with a different eye. This is a blessing you should heed.

Cancer (the Crab) 22 June 22 July You can come across as a bit assertive, when really you just want to make sure the job is done properly. If you need to apologise for treading on a few toes to make things happen, then do it.

Leo (the Lion) 23 July 21 August You try not to let your emotions interfere with your everyday life, but it’s inevitable that you can get emotionally involved in what you’re doing. You have really great energy and if you can tap into it you’ll find some relief.

Virgo (the Virgin) 22 August 23 September If you come across someone that won’t budge on his or her opinion, then there is no need for you to waste any energy trying to change the individual’s mind. Instead, surround yourself with like-minded people and any negativity will be overwhelmed.

Libra (the Scales) 24 September 23 October You’re better off finishing any projects that you may have started yourself. You don’t want to be in a position where you have to confront someone over their lack of input.

Do it yourself then only you’re responsible.

Scorpio (the Scorpion) 24 October 22 November You’re so confident that you think that whatever you touch or do will become a success. Your arrogance could be your downfall. Be careful your confidence isn’t being driven by your ego.

Sagittarius (the Archer) 23 November 22 December All you can do is keep doing what you’re doing. If others are being rewarded for doing exactly the same as you, then you have to say something. But don’t let the quality of your work be affected by your emotions.

Capricorn (the Goat) 23 December 20 January You seem to think your life is a bit chaotic at the moment but, rest assured, compared to a few others, yours is a dream. So what if you sometimes feel like you’re on a roller coaster. Enjoy it while you still can - that’s what life is all about.

Aquarius (the Water Carrier) 21 January 19 February Whatever routine you stick at, you might find it’s come a bit unsettled recently. As long as you embrace and go along with any changes, then you’ll be fine, but if you start putting up barriers, whether emotionally or mentally, then you might have a problem.

Pisces (the Fishes) 20 February 20 March You have the beginnings of a jigsaw but you can’t quite fit the pieces together. This is how you sometimes feel. If you can get to a conclusion and decide where you want to go, then the paths open to you will be clearer than you think.

Aries (the Ram) 21 March 20 April A lot of people seem to want to have some kind of input on how you run your life. Remember, it’s your life and if you can somehow gently let people know that this is how it is, then great. But if you have to get a little more aggressive to get yourself heard, then that’s what you have to do.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

81

JOHN APPLETON: ON HEALTH

Maintaining optimal immune function With winter on the way, many of us are hoping we can stay well during the colder months and avoid the colds and flu that can make life very miserable.

There is a tendency to be reactive when we should be proactive by ensuring that our defences are in place in time for winter. Two years ago, I planted a lime tree in the front garden. I was disappointed when a small tree didn’t turn into a much bigger one overnight.

Last summer, however, I decided to go all out to do the very best I could for the tree. I ensured that it was well hydrated, and I fed it with seaweed/fish fertiliser and liquid nitrosol twice a week, using a bottle connected to my garden hose. The tree literally jumped out of the ground and now it has beautiful, dark green, perfectly shaped leaves, there is no sign of disease and the branches are almost breaking off due to the weight of limes. Good nutrition and hydration have allowed the tree to thrive and fight off diseases.

There is a lesson for us in this. A healthy immune system requires good nutrition, adequate hydration, plenty of fresh air and a good, restful sleep every night.

As we get older, our resistance to respiratory infections including influenza and pneumonia is lower and thus there is even more reason to do what we can to boost our defences.

Good nutrition is fundamental and, during the cooler months, a great way to support the immune system while at the same time enjoying great-tasting meals. So, get busy each week and make some bone broth soup in the slow cooker. Joyce at IE Produce has all the ingredients for this.

It’s really important to avoid convenience foods that are devoid of nutrients, and focus on fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables. This is so often talked about, but given what I see in supermarket trolleys, it isn’t happening.

Important nutrients for the immune system that we are not easily able to get from our diet are vitamin C, B vitamins and zinc. A really good multi vitamin should be on the shopping list. Look for one which has the active forms of the key B vitamins including natural folate, vitamin B6 as P5P, and vitamin B12 in the methyl form. With a good multi you will also get important minerals but when it comes to zinc, it may be necessary to take more as a separate supplement.

The importance of vitamin C for the immune system cannot be overstated, especially during the cooler months and for anyone going into hospital; vitamin C should be ‘front and centre’. If patients have any measurable vitamin C on arrival at hospital, after a surgical procedure their level is likely to be zero.

A new medical device to measure vitamin C levels via finger prick test is soon to be available and this could save a lot of lives as doctors will discover just how easily vitamin C can be depleted. Vitamin D should also be on everyone’s radar. It’s on prescription or in the pharmacy as a supplement. Ensure your blood level is optimal.

Try to avoid antibiotics, which as well as killing off pathogenic bacteria, also have a negative impact on gut flora and studies show that it can take many months for the gut flora to fully recover following just one course of antibiotics.

Talk to your doctor about possible alternatives. If you do take an antibiotic, follow up with a quality probiotic and look for fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kefir and kimchi.

Drink herbal teas and avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol which act as diuretics robbing the body of water. Two large glasses of tepid filtered water on rising in the morning can get you off to a good start.

Another glass in between meals can help maintain hydration.

(JOHN APPLETON) F PN

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

82 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING D&M RAISES $5K FOR MERCY HOSPICE Auckland D&M Hair Design made a $5320 donation to local charity Mercy Hospice following a Haircuts for Hospice salon event on Monday 25 March.

The award-winning Ponsonby hair salon opened its doors on what’s usually a day off, offering specially priced $70 haircut and blowdry services. 100% of the day’s takings were donated to Mercy Hospice Auckland. In addition, D&M owners Danny Pato and Michael Sisaengrath matched the amount raised dollar for dollar, with a total donation of $5320.

The Haircuts for Hospice event was fully booked out in advance, with D&M team members and Mercy Hospice supporters giving their time on the day.

D&M HAIR DESIGN, 5 Redmond Street, T: 09 376 3666, www.dandm.co.nz

The Accent Is On YOU! Cosmetic Dentistry, Hygienist, Family Dentistry, 1- Hour Crowns.

“Dr Matt and his team is what I would like to call the A Team... really impressed with how fast and effective they work together to get it done. I trust them so much...” – Louis

BOOK ONLINE

Visit: bit.ly/bookapptonline

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PONSONBY NEWS+ May

83

HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY

Prescription Skin Care

HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY

I’m embarrassed to say that I’d never set foot in Prescription Skin Care’s super chic clinic at 197 Ponsonby Road until earlier this year, when I was lucky enough to be invited there for the launch of the SkinBetter Science skincare brand into the local market.

I was hugely impressed - both by the research behind the beautiful, high-performance, new brand and the work of the team at Prescription.

Prescription Skin Care has actually been helping people 'look younger and feel confident about their skin' since it was founded in Remuera back in 1993. The Ponsonby location opened in December 2016, offering a state-of-the-art clinic with the same technologically advanced equipment, facilities and highly trained personnel as Remuera, but for clients over this side of town.

Both utilise the knowledge of Dr Stephen Gilbert as Medical Director, a man who comes with a wealth of experience under his belt. He is experienced in all kinds of plastic surgery including facial enhancements such as rhinoplasty, breast surgery and liposuction, and was a founding co-director of the New Zealand Institute of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery. Stephen’s daughter, Georgina Robertson, coowns the Prescription Skin Care clinics with her mother Margaret Gilbert, so the passion for great skin solutions definitely runs in the family.

The Ponsonby clinic is known for its proficiency in less-invasive procedures like IPL, Laser Genesis and Laser Vein Treatments, as well as its stellar results with injectables. Angela Frazer is the Senior Skin Care Nurse Consultant and Clinic Co-ordinator at Ponsonby and Remuera, and is largely responsible for the clinic’s fantastic reputation as a highly respected location for non-invasive work and skincare advice.

She is also one of the most knowledgeable people in the beauty field that I have been lucky enough to meet in quite some time, and I could seriously listen to her talk for hours! And, clearly, I’m not the only one, as over the years Angela has contributed to health and fashion publications and spoken at a number of industry seminars, including the Australasian Plastic Surgical Training Weekend for doctors, and the national Plastic Surgical Nurses Symposium. After qualifying as a registered nurse in New Zealand, Angela moved to London and worked for two years in the world-renowned dermatology unit at St Thomas’s hospital. During this time she not only gained extensive specialised knowledge in the field of dermatology but also developed a keen interest in the skin and associated treatments.

This was followed by seven years in the Plastic Surgery and Burns Unit at Auckland’s Middlemore Hospital before she was able to combine her experience in dermatology and plastic surgical nursing in private practice. She started at Prescription Skin Care in 1997

and has never looked back. Initially training and qualifying as a specialist collagen injector, Angela is now an expert in the areas of new generation dermal fillers and Botox, and she attends seminars, advanced workshops and conferences all over the world.

I returned to Prescription Skin Care a few weeks after the launch to meet with Angela one-on-one to learn more about the SkinBetter Science brand, which set out in 2016 to create a 'new paradigm in skincare', not only for patients, but for the physicians, nurses, aestheticians and surgeons who help patients achieve great skin.

I was pleased to find out that the products are so well formulated that they don’t require a tedious multi-step process of application in the morning and evening - something that has turned me off so many brands.

They say that one SkinBetter Science product can deliver remarkable results; and just two to three can change how you feel about your skin. I love that, and so does my bank account.

The one product that I’m excited to be playing with first is SkinBetter Science Alto Defense Serum, which is being applauded all over the world for its work on free-radical damage.

Free radicals are unstable, electron-stealing molecules that harm our cells as we age. The resultant damage, if unaddressed or repaired imperfectly, accumulates over time giving rise to wrinkles, brown spots and even skin cancers.

There are a myriad of antioxidants to counter free radicals, but individual ones generally do not protect against all free radicals some only impact one type. And while both our bodies and our skin are smartly outfitted with innate antioxidant networks, they can easily get overwhelmed by the barrage of environmental assaults most of us suffer every day purely as a consequence of modern living. And when the hits start stacking up, we begin to look older than our years.

Which brings me back to Alto Defense Serum. What makes it remarkable, setting it apart from even the gold standards dermatologists have long lauded, is its impressive medley of antioxidants - vitamins C and E, coenzyme Q10, grape seed extract, cocoa, turmeric, green tea, coffee, superoxide dismutase, and more - that work in synergy to provide skin with a sort of blanket protection.

What also stood out during recent testing was the apparent reduction in redness and wrinkles in subjects’ skin after just four weeks of use.

There was also continued improvement over time, and the serum is highly tolerable even for those with rosacea like me. I generally can’t use products containing multiple actives, but thus far, this beauty is seriously performing.

If you want to learn more, then I highly recommend a trip to Prescription Skin Care, a great local resource if ever there was one.

(HELENE RAVLICH) F PN www.prescriptionskincare.co.nz

84 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

ESTATE CLEARANCES...

Let Elderly Assist help you in all aspects of estate clearances.

Losing a loved one is a difficult time for everyone and the added stress of clearing out the family home is a daunting task for many. Elderly Assist is here to help. Our large, sensitive and caring team is ready at short notice to help you pack up, clear and prepare the house and garden for sale. With proven processes and years of specialist experience in all aspects of estate clearance, our team will work with you, listen to your needs and make a plan to assist.

Elderly Assist founder and owner, Janice Willis, handpicks every member of her team for their empathetic and ethical approach to their work. Everyone is also police and credit checked. “I’ve been

+(/3 :,7+ (67$7( &/($5$1&(6 We can manage the whole process or any part of it - you choose.

We will ensure that special personal belongings are kept safe for the family, unwanted items sold and reports provided to the family, lawyer and executor every step of the way.

Elderly Assist’s years of experience and proven processes take the stress out of this difficult time.

Here’s what Jeanette had to say on the No Cowboys website 6 March, 2019: "I used Elderly Assist to clear and clean my deceased mother’s house which had not been well maintained for the last few years.

From the first phone call to the end result it was stress free and professional. Everything was handled with care and we were kept informed every step of the way.” Rating: 100% Visit www.nocowboys.co.nz/businesses/elderly-assistlimited#ratings for more authenticated testimonials from dozens of Elderly Assist’s happy customers.

For more info and a brochure, contact founder/owner Janice Willis on 0800 839 874 or visit www.elderlyassist.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

working with the elderly and bereaved families for the last seven years,” says Janice. “Helping people at those difficult times in life is my passion and I am so proud of my team and the processes we have built up over the years.”

Janice can also provide add-on services such as liaising with real estate agents and lawyers, builders, gardeners, charities and collectors. These valued relationships help make the whole process so much easier.

“If you’re faced with the tough job of sorting through and selling your loved one’s home, give me a call on 0800 839 874 and we’ll see how we can help.” F PN ELDERLY ASSIST, www.elderlyassist.co.nz

We are an owner-operator business specialising in estate clearance and helping elderly people transition into retirement care.

What we do: • Pack up the house and prepare property for sale.

• Assist with the sale of furniture and belongings. Elderly Assist does not take a commission on the sale of goods.

• Assist with gifting to friends and family and making donations to charity.

• Ensure that special personal belongings are kept safe for family.

• Provide a full inventory of individual items of property and what has been done with them.

• Liaise with and provide reports to the Lawyer, Power of Attorney, Estate Executor and/or family at every stage.

Janice Willis

Phone: 0800 839 874 www.elderlyassist.co.nz www.movingassist.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING CANNABIS - TIME TO GET REAL Like you, I’d do anything to protect my children. Like you, I am very concerned about our collapsing eco systems (insects, water, oceans, fisheries, climate). There are meaningful ways to address these issues.

Imagine if one crop could provide top-quality food, fibre, medicine, fuel, oil, paint, chemicals and housing. Imagine if it was sustainable and renewable.

Imagine if, after 28,000 years of use, this crop was unethically removed from the market on fraudulent evidence, and a $75,000 tax put on all farmers and doctors who touched the plant.

Hemp is more important than you may know. It can help us heal our ecosystems, improve health care, build economic sovereignty, tackle climate change and ensure the survival of our children. It’s much more important than you may think. There’s a lot of talk about billions of dollars in the hemp industry, but, really, it’s trillions.

Love, kindness and empathy are key to us as social animals, yet our society is built on a disastrous petro-chemical foundation. We should look at switching to something more sustainable. Life is precious.

Let's not make it worse for each other, we need to reconfigure the

fuels of our economy if we are to survive.

As history shows us, a $75,000 tax on petro chemicals should do it. It certainly got rid of hemp! But seriously, we need a sustainable carbohydrate-based system that supports life, not dooms it. The petrochemical foundation is not viable, a hemp foundation is needed.

China is building one, let’s not miss out. There’s no time for tech dreams, it’s time to get real. (TADHG STOPFORD) F PN Find out more at the Sunday Grey Lynn Farmers Market or on 22 May at St Paul's College Boardroom, 183 Richmond Road, 7am-8am, RSVP: jack@erjustice.org.nz

CLARE CALDWELL: THE ART OF LIVING Wolves: the very word conjures up feelings of tension and fear in most people.

Wolves are the villains of fairy stories, from ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ to ‘Three Little Pigs’, cast with slashing carnivorous teeth and Machiavellian personalities.

According to Farley Mowat, author of ‘Never Cry Wolf’ (1963), this couldn’t be further from the truth. While detractors of his book described it as subjective and semi-fictional rather than scientific, Mowat’s study of wolves in the sub-arctic Canadian wilderness has done much to influence our thinking as to their truer natures.

Employed by The Dominion Wildlife Service from 1948 - 49, his initial task was to ascertain what was killing off huge numbers of caribou the main suspect being the arctic wolf.

Mowat’s first encounter with one of these wolves was hilarious. Arctic wolves are the largest of the many subspecies of Canis lupis and the males can grow up to nearly 3m from nose to tail tip. He was crawling up a steep ridge on his stomach following sounds he mistakenly attributed to a lost husky pup. Peering over the summit he found himself gazing straight into the amber eyes of a huge male wolf, also lying down and only about 2m away! Both stared hypnotically at each other for a short interlude then the huge wolf sprang up and raced away.

Mowat’s second encounter was with this same male and his female mate. He’d been scouring the horizon for hours trying to locate them, when something made him turn around. There, behind him, not 20 yards away was the alpha male looking rather bored, and his mate who seemed very curious and focused upon him. They’d been studying him for hours. They could easily have leapt upon him and killed him but, instead, chose to just quietly observe.

Mowat focused his whole study on this small wolf family who he discovered were living in a den near Nueltin Lake, comprising of the male father, his female mate, six puppies and another male ‘uncle’.

His portrayal of these wolves is of their gentleness, affection, loyalty and patience with each other, that they were playful, both with their pups and between themselves. They allocated babysitters to give

86 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

the parents a break and adopted pups from other wolves' litters if needed. Their high level of intelligence meant they killed sustainably and never took more than they could eat, often supplementing their diet with small mammals and rodents. They culled out the weak, old and unwell from the caribou herds for their consumption, thus actually strengthening the caribou’s gene pool - a principle noted and honoured by local Inuit people.

Wolves are an intrinsic and vital part of the huge Arctic ecosystems that nature has designed to have its own checks and balances.

The returning of the grey wolf to Yellow Stone Park in 1995 further echoes these sentiments. Without the wolves, the elk population had exploded, being too plentiful for bears and coyotes to hold in balance.

They’d devastated the ecosystems by overgrazing and trampling young trees, especially along the riverbanks, thus prohibiting new growth. Without trees, birds had no home, beavers couldn’t build their dams (home for many fish species and food for bears), and the uncontained water flow eventually turned the surrounding land into a wasteland, devoid of life.

In his final analysis, Mowat ascertained it wasn’t arctic wolves that were decimating the caribou populations; it was human trophy hunters, with their high-powered rifles and disregard for the sanctity of life.

After working with these beautiful and complex creatures for a year, Mowat concluded: “We have doomed the wolf, not for what it is, but for what we deliberately and mistakenly perceive it to be - the mythological epitome of a savage, ruthless killer which is, in reality, no more than the projected image of ourselves. We have made it the scapegoat for our own darkness.” (CLARE CALDWELL) F PN Clare (Claudie) Caldwell is a creative arts therapist who runs a small, private practice from home. She now runs a voluntary art and art therapy programme at Auckland City Mission. She is also a freelance artist. Enquiries: T: 09 836 3618; M: 021 293 3171; E: clare.e.caldwell@gmail.com PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION FICINO PRESCHOOL AND PRIMARY SCHOOL, MOUNT EDEN For over 20 years, Ficino School has been educating primary and intermediate-aged children with a broad curriculum in a structured classroom setting.

Two years ago, Ficino Preschool was added to the offering and now children can access this truly unique education from the age of three to 13.

Ficino Preschool is a haven for young children to grow in selfbelief and confidence as they explore and experience new skills. Ficino’s uniquely holistic curriculum balances the spiritual, social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of each child.

Children are encouraged to experience each moment through play, and to respect and care for each other and the environment.

Ficino Preschool teachers bring a range of skills that include dance, art, music, yoga, mindfulness, numeracy, literacy and science that add an extra dimension to the children’s daily experiences. They believe in nurturing every child to exceed their own expectations. Children explore the boundaries of their thinking because young minds matter.

Ficino Primary School offers academic excellence within a mindful and expansive curriculum.

Teachers encourage self-discipline, clear communication and focus for every child. Class sizes average around 20 students, with all classes focusing on the development of the whole child. Senior students are increasingly taught by subject specialists, providing an excellent preparation for high school. Core attributes such as teamwork, decision making and problem solving, together with the ability to plan, organise and follow through on a task are just part of an expansive education, which is truly inspired.

Ficino is a school where your child loves to learn; where children develop self-knowledge, self-confidence and self-discipline, while

realising their own unique potential in a thriving academic environment.

The structured classroom settings help establish important foundations during a child’s formative years. To find out more visit www.ficino.school.nz

Imagine a school where your child loves to learn.

Where children develop self-knowledge, self-discipline and self-confidence.

All in a thriving academic environment.

See for yourself.

BOOK A SCHOOL TOUR TODAY

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PONSONBY NEWS+ May

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MEET THE TEACHER Bridget Lummis teaches at Freemans Bay School.

Have you always lived in Auckland?

I was born in Nelson but spent most of my childhood in Christchurch. I moved to Auckland after studying at the University of Canterbury and I have been here ever since! I still love going to Christchurch and spending time with my family there and, in spite of owning a home in Auckland, I still call Christchurch home.

What keeps you in Auckland?

I love that my friends and some of my family are here and that we have so many opportunities to have new and amazing experiences. There is always so much happening around the city and I try to take advantage of this when I can. I love shopping, particularly on Ponsonby Road. I also love the cafe culture here and enjoy a regular coffee at Rupas, just near my school.

What passions do you have outside of work?

It may sound a bit cliched, but travel is something I love to do. I work hard and travel is a reward that gives me time out to refresh and learn new things. The feeling of landing somewhere new is exhilarating. I get out of the country at least once a year – Cambodia, Rwanda, Tanzania have been highlights in recent times. This photo was taken in front of the Sphinx of Giza on one of my adventures around Africa.

What about your job? I hear it’s another reason that you are in Auckland.

My amazing job at Freemans Bay School also keeps me in Auckland. I’m passionate about teaching and learning at my school, and the diverse community that we have.

I have been at Freemans Bay School for nearly 10 years and it has been so exciting to see all of the changes that we have had over that time, especially the recent $20 million rebuild project. The school looks amazing!

What is your role within the school?

I am the Deputy Principal (DP) at Freemans Bay School. My role is varied and no two days are ever the same which keeps me on my toes! I support teachers to modify the way that they teach, ensuring the focus remains on learning and growth, celebrating who we are and where we come from. It is important for students to have a sense of belonging and confidence in themselves, their place in the world and be lifelong learners.

What do you like about being part of the Kahui Ako O Waitemata ?

It has provided us with a platform for connecting and sharing. There are some amazing DPs within the Kahui and it’s fantastic to be able to learn from and with them.

What lies ahead for you?

I have recently accepted the role of Principal at Oranga School. While I am saddened to leave the amazing students, staff and community of Freemans Bay, I am filled with enthusiasm, passion and energy for the new opportunities this role will bring. F PN

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88 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION SWIM SCHOOL PARENT AND BABY LESSONS One of the most rewarding ways that parents can bond with their baby while helping them develop essential life skills, is to spend quality time together in the water.

Encouraging your child to embrace being in the water at a young age has a variety of benefits beyond the essential life skill of being able to swim. A study led by Griffith University in Queensland, Australia, discovered that children who are encouraged to swim from an early age are more likely to develop more advanced cognitive and physical skills than children who aren’t exposed to swimming.

The St Cuthbert’s Swim School Parent and Baby lessons are specifically designed for children aged three months to three-years -old to focus on getting your baby comfortable in the water. These 30-minute lessons, which are taught by qualified swim instructors, introduce your baby to a variety of basic co-ordination exercises and early water survival skills through singing, splashing and, most importantly, having fun.

Once your child develops a love for being in the water, they will be in a great position to start learning to swim with confidence.

water means reduced chlorine levels in the water, and less irritants for young, sensitive skin and eyes.”

St Cuthbert’s Swim School Manager, Ben Danieli, says that it’s the award-winning school’s attention to the needs of small children that really sets it apart from other providers. “One of the biggest barriers to getting small children into the pool can be an aversion to getting wet or being too cold,” says Danieli.

Better yet, Danieli says that the one-on-one time that parents spend splashing and playing in a safe, supportive swimming environment gives both parent and baby a unique bonding experience.

“That’s why we ensure that our Learners’ Pool is set to a higher temperature than our other pool. In addition, our pool’s UV-treated

“No matter what progress your child makes in the pool each week, these lessons will provide them with a rewarding experience where PN they can improve their swimming skills and self-confidence.” F

St Cuthbert’s Swim School, 122 Market Road, Epsom, (inside St Cuthbert’s College grounds) T:09 520 8272, www.stcuthbertsswimschool.co.nz

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Phone 09 520 8272 stcuthbertsswimschool.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY NEWS+ May

89

BILL HARRIS: KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY

The Students of Ponsonby meet a Human of New York Who doesn’t look back on their school days and remember their favourite teachers?

Teachers who’ve inspired them the way John Keating, played by Robin Williams, inspired his students in Dead Poets’ Society, or 'Crazy Joe' Clark, played by Morgan Freeman in Lean On Me. Or, in a movie the kids might be more familiar with, Dewey Finn, played by Jack Black in School of Rock.

Thirty years from now, when the kids of Ponsonby Primary Room 10 reminisce about their school days, one of the teachers they’ll think fondly of is Mr Graham.

Because Mr Graham is one of those teachers who, because of his love for his job and commitment to his students, goes way above and beyond the call of duty. That commitment is reflected in the way he puts as much emphasis on growing their EQ as he does their IQ. For instance, one of the students is chosen as the greeter every morning, and has the job of shaking the hands of his/her classmates as they enter the class. Their homework is to keep gratitude journals. It’s an exercise in communication, appreciation and plain old good manners that many people would do well to emulate.

For a recent project, the children worked on developing their empathy by understanding and appreciating others. One of their findings from the project was to always be kind, as you never know what the person in front of you is going through or has been through.

TWO OF THE STUDENTS' POEMS: She just stood there like a lightbulb in a sea of darkness.

The mist fading away into the dark depths of the forest.

The waves coming back and forth like a boomerang.

Thoughts screaming through her mind being alone, not fitting in, family issues.

Through all this pain she knew not to give up to stay proud no matter what She is a survivor.

O. J. Patterson

90 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

To help bring this to life, Mr Graham and his students chose a story from Humans of New York - a photoblog and book of street portraits collected on the streets of New York City - to discuss in regards to empathy, understanding and compassion. The story they chose was about photographer Laura Jane Petelko, who tells of her struggles, rejection, survival and success. The children were so engaged with her story that they were motivated to write poetry about it. Mr Graham was really impressed with their efforts and got in touch with Ms Petelko to share their poetry with her, and he and the class even video called her to thank her for being a wonderful inspiration to them.

Ms Petelko was so touched that her story had connected with the kids that she chose to share their poetry on her blog www.instagram. com/laurajanepetelko.

She has over 50,000 followers and a huge number of them liked her post, commenting what a great teacher Mr Graham is and what a beautiful story he and his class created. Sadly, Ms Petelko put the post up on the morning of Friday 15 March before the world learned of the horror that unfolded in Christchurch. Later that day she posted a message of love and empathy for New Zealand.

What a story - a story that Mr Graham started earlier in the year, which then took on a life of its own as it merged with the story of Laura Jane Petelko. A story that the characters in it will never forget.

(BILL HARRIS) F PN Life In life you don’t need a degree to do what you love.

If you keep on standing your heart does, too.

No matter what you go through, it doesn’t matter if you do what you love.

J. de Marco

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PONSONBYPROFESSIONALS: PROFESSIONALS: LOGAN LOGANGRANGER GRANGER

Changes to secondary tax Workers who are paying too much tax because of incorrect secondary tax codes are in line for relief with the recent passage of legislation through Parliament.

The Taxation (Annual Rates for 2018-19, Modernising Tax Administration, and Remedial Matters) Bill passed its third reading and came into effect on 1 April 2019.

The changes have been made in order to eliminate unnecessary secondary tax for workers with more than one job. The Inland Revenue will more closely monitor the tax paid by wage and salary earners throughout the year. If it appears the worker is being over taxed, Inland Revenue will suggest a more suitable PAYE tax code tailored to that worker.

Till now, the tax on the second job has often seemed too high. These changes ensure wage and salary earners are only paying the tax they should as just under 600,000 secondary tax codes are used every year. Inland Revenue will also make it easier for individuals to apply for tailored tax codes that suit their earning circumstances, and provide an online process to apply for the codes.

Automatic tax refunds for wage and salary earners The change in legislation also enables automatic tax refunds to be introduced for about 750,000 New Zealanders every year.

The simplified tax rules remove the need for people who only earn employment or investment income to file a personal tax summary (PTS) to get a tax refund. Till now, the only way to get a refund was to file a PTS. However, 750,000 people failed to do so and missed out on their money as a result. Inland Revenue Commissioner Naomi Ferguson suggests that this would be the biggest change to individual tax in nearly 20 years.

In the past it hasn’t been mandatory for wage and salary earners to fill out an IR personal tax summary (PTS) but if they had and it had indicated a refund, they could have filed a return and received that refund.

In the new system, all wage and salary earners’ tax will be calculated and refunds sent automatically. About 110,000 more earners, who also haven’t been filing, will have an amount to pay - in which they will be notified automatically.

Ferguson also states, “Getting a refund, if you’re entitled to one, will be a whole lot simpler because it will be done for you. The only reason for contacting IR now will be to tell us about any additional income information that we need to know."

Put simply, IRD will now look at the information they have concerning an individual and if they are confident they have all their information, the IRD will calculate and finalise their tax position for the year and generate an automatic refund – so there’s no need for a PTS, making it a very simple process for wage and salary earners. A big change from what so many people have become used to.

Therefore, it will be very important that earners make sure the details the IRD hold about them - bank account number, contact details and so on - are fully up to date so the new system works well for them. (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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91

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: METROLAW Got a legal question? Ask michael@metrolaw.co.nz

Q:

I have been seeing a guy for almost a year now and we are talking about moving in together. My concern is that I own the apartment that I live in because I was left some money from my grandparents some years ago. Do I need an agreement? When do I need to have this in place? DD

A:

Thanks for your question, which raises a number of issues.

The short answer is yes, you do need an agreement.

While property that you have owned since before the relationship may be separate property under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 ('the Act') as is property that you receive in the nature of an inheritance this character of being separate property can be compromised. There are several ways in which this could happen including by living in the property as the 'family home', supporting the property from your income (which is generally regarded as relationship property), or expending the income from the property for the benefit of the relationship.

While some people can manage to keep their separate property separate, for real estate this usually means it has to be a rental property that you do not have to prop up from your own income.

The protection that Trusts can give have been eroded in the last few years and the best protection and way to avoid uncertainty is to have an agreement contracting out of the Act. Your next question is when do you need the agreement.

The Act applies to relationships of more than three years duration, but where there is a child or the person applying to the court has made a substantial contribution to the relationship then there is a discretion for the court to make an order under the Act if it considers there is a risk of serious injustice.

In practical terms, it is when you can sensibly discuss the matter with your partner. This might be awkward on a first date but once you have an established relationship you should consider if and when you need to have this conversation. There is some ambiguity under the Act as to when the qualifying relationship starts so I recommend thinking about this a year after the relationship began. Other triggering points might include when you start sharing finances, two years from the start of the relationship, moving in together, buying a property or planning a family.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be negotiating an agreement with the time running out, so if you are going to raise the matter then donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave it until almost three years. Contracting Out Agreements often put stress on a relationship and you do not want to add time pressure to this stress. If you have the conversation earlier in the relationship then your partner may be more likely to agree to you keeping separate property separate than once they have invested several years in the relationship.

You can enter into a Contracting Out Agreement at any time. But it is harder to get someone to agree to give up an interest (which if it is half a property will be significant) rather than agreeing that the Act will not come into effect. Each party needs to get independent legal advice on the agreement and many lawyers are reluctant to advise on agreements that disadvantage the person they are advising.

Good luck and let me know if I can be of any help.

PN (MICHAEL HEMPHILL) F Disclaimer - This article is for general information purposes only. If you have a legal problem you should seek advice from a lawyer. Metro Law does not accept any liability other than to its clients and then only when advice is sought on specific matters.

METRO LAW, Level 1, 169A Ponsonby Road, T: 09 929 0800, www.metrolaw.co.nz

Wordsmith available. . Freelance writing. . Copy for websites . Words for any situation.

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92 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

595 577.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU IS THERE TO HELP At last year’s AGM of the Citizens Advice Bureau’s Auckland region, our guest speaker was a senior but rather youthful police officer from the wider-Auckland district.

I’m sure he won’t mind my passing this on, but, in his opening address, he told us that he had mentioned to some of his younger officers where he was heading that day and asked them what they knew about the CAB.

We offer a free legal clinic, family law clinic and budget advice clinic.

For these you do need to make a booking. Justice of the Peace is available Monday - Saturday 11am-12.30pm at our offices in Grey Lynn.

“Google for old people!” was the response. Well, of course we all had a laugh but I do hope that all people, young and old, feel welcome to access our service. For me the value of our service is that we offer ‘google', that is, assistance, by various methods - face to face, by phone, email, and via our website, which has just been upgraded and relaunched.

I would like to tell you about a review just released of the Wellington CAB service commissioned by Wellington City Council (WCC) as part of its future funding of the five bureaux there.

So, I invite you all - young and old - to check out our website and see what the CAB has to offer: www.cab.org.nz. With more than 300 different subjects and information presented in a plain language question and answer format, the CAB website is a valuable tool for the whole community. This online resource complements our face-toface and phone services.

Making the information on our website as accessible as possible is about breaking down those barriers so people can find out what they need to know and be empowered to take next steps.

The information is constantly updated at a national level to ensure it is correct and amended to include law and policy changes.

The website provides answers to more than 2000 questions and answers about people’s rights based on real issues encountered by clients, as well as an extensive community directory of services and groups. I encourage everyone to have it bookmarked as a go-to resource for navigating life in Aotearoa New Zealand.

A report prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) identified the unique contribution that CAB makes to community well-being through its accessible advice and information. The CAB’s effectiveness in reaching vulnerable populations that others struggle to reach was noted in the report.

While the review focused on the CAB Wellington, I believe this applies to all CABs, including ours! The report identified that CAB makes a significant impact with the resources it has. I would like to acknowledge the significant support of local and central government.

As I have said, our point of differentiation is our accessibility and the importance of our face-to-face service that provides clients with a ‘human' experience. Technology allows us to share information and to reach people in new ways, but the value of our face to face service cannot be underestimated. CAB opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am-4pm, Saturday 10.30am-12.30pm. No appointment necessary.

Citizens Advice Bureau Grey Lynn/Ponsonby, 510 Richmond Road, T: 09 376 0392, or 0800 367 222, www.cab.org.nz

Whether it’s about the rights of a tenant, a person wanting to take money out of their KiwiSaver because of hardship, or a person facing discrimination at work, the CAB website has information on nearly every topic imaginable.

As I write this, it’s CAB’s Annual Awareness Week. The theme of the week has been ‘Discover your rights - Tuhuratia o- motika’. The CAB is clear that information about rights should be readily accessible to everyone and making this happen is core to our business.

Even with information available online, we do think the need for a human service is an essential part of how we work. People value the chance to talk to a real human being and to have practical support to navigate the digital world. Increasingly, institutions public and private seem to want to avoid human contact.

So, while our website is a fantastic tool, we think it’s also important that people know we are here, kanohi ki te kanohi (in person) and over the phone - for everyone, about anything.

I think of situations where someone has walked in to the office and our volunteer interviewers might spend three hours working through an issue with that person. There is no pressure to push that person through, we operate in a non-judgemental way and there is no charge to the client.

Here at Grey Lynn/Ponsonby bureau we have approximately 25 volunteer interviewers and we operate Monday to Saturday to help people who often turn to us in desperation because they either don’t know their rights or they face barriers accessing the information.

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Your FIRST

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 PONSONBY NEWS+ May

93

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

AUCKLAND MARATHON Become a fundraiser and save lives with every step.

Have you been looking for a challenge and want to prove your physical prowess all while helping a good cause? Why not join Team SPCA for the Auckland Marathon on the 20th of October this year?

@ SPCA – PLEASE CAN I COME HOME WITH YOU? Adopt an SPCA animal today and in return you will be rewarded with a lifetime of unconditional love. www.spcaauckland.org.nz/adopt

Whether you're a runner or a walker, there's a distance for everyone. Take up the challenge of the full marathon, half marathon (21.1km), 12km or 5km fun run and walk. Whatever you choose, you'll be saving lives with every step! All races (except the 5km) give you the chance to run over the Auckland Harbour Bridge - an experience to remember for sure.

SPCA’s aim is to raise $40,000 for animals that desperately need help throughout New Zealand. SPCA fundraisers are a valued part of Team SPCA and receive on-going support from our dedicated fundraising team throughout their journey. Anyone who raises over $150 will also receive a Team SPCA t-shirt to wear on race day and those who raise over $500 will be receive a personalised running singlet.

“It’s a great opportunity for our supporters to take part in an incredible activity while raising funds for the SPCA. The event day is a lot of fun and there’s always a really positive atmosphere,” says SPCA CEO Andrea Midgen.

To join Team SPCA at Auckland Marathon: 1. Create a fundraising page by signing up at www.spca.nz/aucklandmarathon2019

Beau

2. Sign up for your chosen race by visiting the Auckland Marathon website 3. Ask your friends and family to donate by sharing your fundraising page www.spca.nz

Will you be my Guardian?

Venus

Your regular donation will help SPCA care for animals all year round.

Do something amazing today: www.spca.nz/SPCAGuardian

Lou

94 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

DOG HOME ALONE? Real walks for dogs who love exploring...

Ponsonby News talks to local resident Karolina, who says, “Our daily excursions take dogs to carefully selected reserves, forests and beaches around Auckland."

Are you a local?

Yes, I’m a Westmere local and have lived in Ponsonby, Herne Bay and Grey Lynn for the last 12 years. I love its walkability, its distinct neighbourhoods, ‘hidden’ beaches and parks. My favourite café is Kokako in Grey Lynn.

How did you get into dog walking?

I got into dog walking to get more balance and flexiblity into my day.

I’m a keen hiker and I’ve always loved the outdoors and dogs and have long had an interest in dog behaviour and training. I’ve learnt a lot from trainers that I’ve worked with both for my own dogs and a foster dog. Dog walking allows me to be outside in great company and it gives me the time and flexibility for other pursuits - I also practise architecture part-time.

Do you have any favourite breeds?

Each breed has its own special quirks and peccadillos - and I’ve loved getting to know the breeds I was less familiar with. I really notice what drives each breed - the schnauzers are really alert, eyes on everything, the Jack Russells are nose dogs and sniff everything.

Poodle mixes and border collies love a ball. But of course being a griffon owner, I do love a griffon!

Do you offer pickup and drop off service?

Yes, I do. My service includes pick-up of dogs in my custom-fittedout, air-conditioned van so that we can get to a variety of parks, beaches and reserves - generally all within a short drive. Having said that, there are some neat walks and tracks woven in and around the immediate neighbourhood, too.

How would you deal with any emergencies?

I am trained in pet first aid and have a pet first aid kit on board, and I ensure that I have vet details and information on any health issues or breed-specific sensitivities to hand for all my clients. It’s also really important to constantly be watching the dog's body language and get familiar with what each dog reacts to.

Are there any challenges in building a relationship with the dogs?

Some dogs are really devoted to their owners, and reluctant to leave their side at all. This is pretty special, but can also make it challenging for both owners and dogs when workloads become heavier or family situations change. In these cases, I take the time to gain the confidence and trust of the dog/s in small steps before we get into

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

a regular walking routine. My clients know that having a well exercised, stimulated dog goes a long way to heading off a lot of behavioural issues. Having a trusted dog walker to share the load with when life gets busy can definitely make things less stressful.

As I’m local, I live close by to many of my clients, so I sometimes drop in to feed their dogs if they are going to be home late, and I have been known to pop over with a spare key when someone gets locked out!

Did you grow up with dogs?

Yes, I’ve grown up with dogs. We had Labradors, German Shepherds and Jack Russells, but at the moment my household consists of ‘Friday’ the griffon, ‘Alfie’ the border collie x Lab and Gigi the Tonkinese cat. Alfie is shortly to have his TV debut featuring as the presenters' sidekick on a classic car show called ‘Start Me Up’ (DUKE, Wednesdays 9pm from 1 May).

Testimonials: “Karolina has been an absolute treasure in helping walk our 9-month -old Freddie. Being a schnauzer, he was typically shy and unsure in the beginning but she was amazing at how quickly she won his trust.

He now is very happy to see her when she arrives for his walk. She has helped me out immensely with walking him on a regular basis and a great support when I am away. It's so nice to have someone who Freddie is happy with and that we can trust. Her walks are always varied and fun and her communication is excellent, so glad we found her." M. Suvalko www.thedogwalker.net.nz

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@ DESIGN WAREHOUSE Design Warehouse has an incredible variety of furniture designs.

With over 70 styles of relaxing chairs to choose from, you can guarantee you will find one that you love! Sunbrella® cushions are included with pieces as shown on the website. Everything is in stock and available for pick up or delivery.

1. Summit Rope & Aluminium Chair 2. Bianca Rope & Aluminium Chair with Sunbrella® cushions 3. Brentwood Teak & Rope Chair with Sunbrella® cushions 4. Abbey Wicker Chair with a built-in Sunbrella® cushion 5. Batyline Mesh & Marine Grade Stainless Steel Summer Low Chair DESIGN WAREHOUSE, 137/147 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 377 7710, www.designwarehouse.co.nz

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HOMESICK FOR PONSONBY? If you, your friends or family are missing Ponsonby, why not subscribe to New Zealand’s best read community magazine?

An annual subscription is only $49 and can be posted anywhere in New Zealand. +

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Photography: Everall Deans, Ponsonby Business Association

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NEWS + LOCAL POLITICS + FASHION + STYLE + CELEBRITY + EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY + TRAVEL + LIVING, THINKING + BEING + PETS + FUTURE GENERATION + SPORTS + HOME + REAL ESTATE + ARTS + CULTURE

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PARKSIDE GRANDEUR PLUS – 23 SCHOFIELD STREET, GREY LYNN Generous, immaculate and perfectly positioned. However you frame it, this exceptional, five-bedroom home on one of Grey Lynn’s most prestigious streets presents a sublime experience.

A classic character home with true street presence and all of the essentials meticulously taken care of, it has been recently refurbished to the nth degree. Upstairs offers two large bedrooms, the master with its own beautifully tiled en suite and cleverly designed storage to keep walls seamless and the chaos of modern life well hidden.

Also on this floor is the open-plan living area, which is flooded with natural light from multiple sources and opens out to a sunny deck. The kitchen is highly spec’d with a neutral colour palette, so you can stamp your own style on the spacious lounge and dining area.

A guest bathroom completes the picture.

Downstairs is purpose built for teens or young adults, with three generously sized double bedrooms, a family sized bathroom and a second lounge. There is a small private garden, as well as doors leading out to an entertainer’s paradise in the north-facing back garden with access to a large, lockable shed with custom shelving - the ideal spot to store the toys. Add to this off-street parking for at least three cars and this perfect package is complete.

Right next to Grey Lynn Park and a short walk to Ponsonby and West Lynn shops, this home will put your family in the heart of the action, and will be treasured for years to come.

This is a unique opportunity not to be missed, call George - 021 956 111, or Patrick - 021 644 859 to arrange a private viewing.

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AMERICA'S CUP AT YOUR DOORSTEP In Vogue - 404/85 Daldy Street, Wynyard Quarter.

Situated in the boutique cedar-clad â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pavilions' by the award-winning architects Architectus and right in the heart of Auckland's most exciting new precinct, Wynyard Quarter with all it has to offer, acclaimed cafes and restaurants, world-class entertainment, glistening harbour, the vibrant CBD and home of the America's Cup at your doorstep, is this sumptuous, two-bedroom corner apartment (approx 96m2 of internal area and 17m2 of balcony) overlooking the expansive, lush urban park which is nearing completion.

This amazing apartment occupies the fourth floor, (with just one other) and features spacious open-plan living (2.7m stud) that flows to an expansive and covered sunny balcony, the perfect place to entertain friends and family, designer kitchen complete with European appliances, two generous bathrooms with European -designed fittings. The interiors are crafted with premium materials, warm timbers and recess lighting.

Add to all this, a tandem car park for two cars, storage unit, concierge service and a shared hybrid-powered vehicle. A simply stunning apartment for the most discerning buyer. F PN Call Carl Madsen to view 021 953 152.

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59 FRANCE Premium apartments from the multi, award-winning combination of local development team, Urban Collective and Paul Brown Architects.

Located in the heart of Eden Terrace for chic city fringe convenience.

Unique edgy designs, featuring the finest

SELLING NOW

fixtures, fittings and finishes.

Construction well underway. Completion Q3, 2020.

1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments. Prices from $645k to $2.9m Call 0800 217 838

Email steve@urbancollective.co.nz

Showroom at 28 Norwich Street Check website for times

FOR MORE INFO VISIT

59FRANCE.CO.NZ

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

A NEW LIGHT In our April issue, we introduced you to the modular and tailormade furniture for your home by Swiss manufacturer USM. Architectural in style and timeless in nature, USM is not only a great choice for your home but also offers many applications for commercial spaces. In a time where retail and offices are ever evolving, some truly inspirational executions can be found of the versatile system including temporary exhibitions and pop-up stores.

Recently, Paris Fashion Week saw the design duo of Coperni showcase their minimalist and graphic collection using a customised USM display.

The pair discovered the USM installation at Salone del Mobile in Milan last year. Investing in a modular configuration to suit the Parisian gallery, which was later transported and adapted at the Cercle Lebrun, the setting displayed 90 garments in a futuristic and innovative style that attracted much interest from passersby.

photography: Alecio Ferrari

Examples of how USM Haller has become a sought after choice in the retail and hospitality industry, including installations at florists, tattoo parlours and cafes, suggests a piece that goes beyond the status quo. The offer of a tailored solution that transforms with the space over time makes USM an undeniably contemporary choice. With a selection of 14 different colours and metal, glass or acoustic panels, the only limit to the configuration is by your imagination.

This month, ECC welcomes the new Haller E which offers the option of integrated LED lighting the shelves and the surrounding space as well as accommodating USB chargers. With its strong visible presence and longevity in its design, we will be anticipating more displays and collaborations from this iconic brand.

For more information or to view the Haller displayed in-situ, contact ECC at info@ecc.co.nz or visit their Auckland Showroom.

More case studies are available online at www.usm.com/en-au/make-it-yours/overview ECC, 39 Nugent Street, Grafton, T: 09 379 9680, www.ecc.co.nz

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Celebrating 110 years in business

Classic, like us

USM Haller, 1969.

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Caren and Muriel at Summerset Retirement Village

MUM USED TO WORRY ABOUT ME, THEN I STARTED WORRYING ABOUT HER When you’re growing up, it’s hard to imagine that one day you’ll be taking more responsibility for your mum or dad.

You’re focused on your career, living your life and possibly becoming a parent with your own children. But often situations arise when adult children need to support their elderly parents making big life decisions.

It’s a hard conversation. Often triggered by a health scare or the parent having trouble managing household tasks or maintenance of the family home. But it’s reassuring to know there is a solution to help rebalance the relationship and restore harmony. 95-year-old Muriel Henderson and her family found a serviced apartment at Summerset Retirement Villages the perfect solution when they were confronted with Muriel needing extra support.

The family looked at a number of options, trying to find a living situation that would let Muriel retain her independence while offering the day-to-day support and care when needed.

In the end, a Summerset serviced apartment proved to be the best of both worlds.

“The staff were so friendly and welcoming,” says daughter-in-law, Caren. “We explained Mum’s circumstances and they completely understood... showing us beautiful, spacious, serviced apartments where Mum could have as much or as little help as she wanted.”

The apartment that caught their eye had a large bedroom, ensuite, separate open-plan living area and kitchenette, great storage, and was well-located within the village centre. “At first I felt a little guilty about moving Mum, but by the end I wanted to move in there myself.

It was wonderful!”

Caren says the family loves knowing Muriel always has someone to talk to and that she can select the meals she wants when she chooses not to cook.

Muriel as a young mum

“It’s also a weight off my mind to know if Mum was ever ill, the on-site staff could keep an eye on her and look after her.”

Not that Muriel’s planning on being sick or needing support. She’s got a life to lead.

And she’s in the right place for that. Her village has its own cafe, bar, and barbecue area; lounge areas, a library, organised activities and movie room where residents can relax; and facilities where residents can exercise and play including a gym, swimming pool, bowling green and pool table.

But she’s not confining her adventures to the village, “I’ve been on more outings in the last six months, than the past six years... to Hamilton, Thames, Devonport, fashion shows and more,” Muriel remarks.

“We’ve loved the way life hasn’t stopped for Mum when she moved into the village,” says Caren. “In fact, it’s better. We can enjoy her company and she can enjoy being a mum again.” Muriel agrees, “I no longer have a list of jobs for Caren and the other kids to do when they pop in, we can just enjoy our time together.”

For more information about Summerset serviced apartments call 0800 334 442 or visit summerset.co.nz/servicedapartments

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ORIGINALITY, QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP - DISCOVER THE PORTERS' DIFFERENCE IN KINGSLAND We welcome you to our new flagship Porters Showroom in Auckland which opened late November.

This new purpose-built showroom situated in the up and coming designer precinct of New North Road, Kingsland, has been designed to showcase a variety of Porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning colours and finishes.

This inspirational space is for designers, architects, painters and consumers to visit and bring their clients for one on one expert advice on all things Porters. At Porters, we hand-make our paints and finishes in small batches, combining the latest in paint technology with time-honoured traditional methods and the finest raw materials for a superior finish.

Innovation, tradition and a commitment to quality have all played a part in the development of our range of paints and finishes, from modern interior and exterior wall paints to traditional lime and cement-based products, unique reactive metallic finishes and many more.

Our beautifully rich colours cannot be copied or matched due to our unique tinting system, where we often use five or six colourants to ensure that colours correctly compliment and cleverly contrast.

Offering unrivalled choice of colour for your project, whether it be commercial, residential or a furniture refresh, you can see the difference for yourself.

Make sure you visit next time you are in Kingsland. We are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm - say hi to Anoushka, who is managing the showroom, and see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new in the stunning and innovative world of Porters Paints.

Parking at Dulux, 60 George Street, Kingsland (around the corner).

Chip card samples, product and application information cards are available, and a brush out service is available for larger sampling. Our comprehensive hand-painted fan deck is available for purchase also.

PORTERS PAINTS, 348 New North Road, T 0800 672 468, E enquiries@porterspaintsnz.co.nz

Specialised assistance, custom colour creation and technical advice.

Visit porterspaints.com or call 0800 672 468 for stockists and samples, or visit our new showroom at 348 New North Rd, Kingsland.

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@ ECC

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1. Magis Puppy 2. Foscarini Binic Table Lamp 3. Nomon Mini Merlin 4. Foscarini Lumiere XXS Table Light

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6. Rina Menardi Triangolo ECC, 39 Nugent Street, Grafton. 09 379 9680, www.ecc.co.nz

@ MELUKA

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1. DRAWERrobe; 2. STUDYboy 3 Crate; 3. CHESTboy 2 Bay 3 High MELUKA, 938 Mt Eden Road, Three Kings, 13a Link Drive, North Shore and 260 Oteha Valley Road, Albany, T: 09-625 3900, www.meluka.co.nz

Let me SLEEP on it! 15% OFF Beds & Bunks COSYbunk $2595

SLEEPYboy n Sto Queen $2360

$2206

$2006

BUNKboy King Single $3499

$2974

Mattresses and accessories sold separately

Furniture. Simply.

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meluka.co.nz

D E SI G N E D A N D MA D E I N N Z

T H RE E KIN G S 98 3 M T ED EN R D N O RT H S H O RE 13A LI N K D R ALB AN Y 2 60 OTEH A VA LLEY R D B OTAN Y D O W N S 501 TI R A K AU D R H AMILTO N 15 MAUI ST

TAU RAN G A 156 C H A D WI C K R D TAU PO 2 9 TOTA R A ST H AS T IN G S 810 HERETAUNGA ST PALME RS TO N N O RT H 699 M A I N ST LO W E R H U T T 2 8 R U TH ER FOR D ST

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS Luxaflex Duette Blinds can be completely cordless making your home safer

LOVE AFFAIRS WITH LIGHT AND SPACE NEED NOT COMPROMISE ON WARMTH Our love affair with open-plan living and extensive indoor-outdoor flow is all about blending the boundaries between inside and out, while not sacrificing privacy or comfort.

Designers and architects have long known which blinds work best in vast windowed areas without compromising on style or insulation properties.

“Luxaflex Duettes have been a very popular choice with designers and architects over the last few years but aren’t as well known with the general public,” says Susan Brookes, Lahood’s senior design consultant.

Duettes are a blind option specifically developed to meet the demands of leading designers. They are premium, elegant blinds that offer incredible insulation properties due to their honeycomb construction.

“The engineering behind the blind is really clever,” says Susan.

“The hollow design gives the blind really good insulating properties, trapping and reducing the flow of warm air, in or out of the home.”

When up to 40% of heat or cold in homes is transferred through windows, a window covering that is well fitted and insulating can make a significant difference. Duette honeycomb blinds, are an excellent option because they can be made to fit snugly to large window or unusual window frames and can be easily motorised so there are no cords.

“Duettes were first developed about 30 years ago, and since then have been continually innovative in design, style and performance,” says Susan. “They now have a honeycomb within a honeycomb

structure which offers the ultimate in heat loss reduction and in keeping your home cool in summer.

"The latest in the designer series are Duette Achitella Menage which have a triple honeycomb construction, with six layers of fabric and five insulating air pockets. “Achitella Menage offers the best insulating properties on the market, and loads of design flexibility,” says Susan.

Known as the designer’s answer to double glazing, Duette blinds are able to work top down or bottom up, have dual day/night shades in one blind and can even be used on skylights.

“The colour ranges are expansive and the ability to create custom shapes means we can do so much creatively,” says Susan.

This month, save 15% OFF on any Luxaflex Duette Pleated and Blockout blind orders.

LAHOOD, 104 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 638 8463, www.lahood.co.nz

CURTAINS • BLINDS • INTERIOR DESIGN SHUTTERS • ROLLER SHADES • UPHOLSTERY

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KITCHEN DESIGN — STANDING THE TEST OF TIME A new kitchen typically has a lifespan of at least 10-15 years, so it’s a big investment; not only in terms of cost, but also with regards to the commitment you have to make to its look and its functionality.

This is especially true in today’s open-plan living environments, where the kitchen has such a huge influence on the aesthetics of the rest of the home.

With over 30 years’ experience, Kitchens By Design leads the field in terms of kitchen and bathroom design in New Zealand. Collectively, its designers have won over 60 nationally recognised awards by the NKBA (National Kitchen & Bathroom Association). Who better, then, to ask about future-proofing the design of your kitchen for the years ahead?

We sat down with the design team at Kitchens By Design and asked them to give us just one design detail each that will not only look great, but will also stand the test of time. Here’s what they told us:

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Creating ‘hidden’ service areas, such as breakfast stations and bars, is something designer Shane George tries to integrate into his designs, where appropriate. “Hiding these areas behind foldaway doors gives the whole space a clean look. They’re not only very practical, but also a bit of fun for the client when they first show their friends. I also like to make the interiors a contrasting colour or texture to the exterior – this adds to the surprise,” he says.

Marianne Gailer, from Kitchen By Design’s Takapuna showroom, says that using the benchtop material for the splashback simplifies the material palette and creates harmony and flow. “It’s a sophisticated and timeless look. You can go a step further by adding a waterfall end, grounding the kitchen and adding a line for the eyes to follow.”

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Designers Sean Monk and Michelle Gillbanks are both using custom steel tubing to create frames on walls and benchtops, and even to support larger elements such as extractor units. Depending on how they are used, they can give a space a semiindustrial, or a very contemporary look.

Introducing timber highlights not only looks good, but because it’s a natural material, it makes it inviting to touch, says Jane Fergusson. “Be sure to choose your material from a sustainable source, though.

A great choice is bamboo - it’s hard and durable, and its colour and texture give quite a different look to wood,” she adds.

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KITCHENS BY DESIGN’S showrooms can be found at 7 Melrose Street, Newmarket, T: 09 379 3084, and 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna, T: 09 488 7201.

The showrooms are open Monday - Friday 10am - 4.30pm, Saturday 10am - 2.30pm, or by appointment. www.kitchensbydesign.co.nz 1.

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Hidden service area, by Shane George Single benchtop material, by Marianne Gailer Custom steel tubing, by Michelle Gillbanks Timber highlights, by Jane Fergusson

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Visit one of our showrooms today.

Newmarket 7 Melrose Street, Newmarket (09) 379 3084 Takapuna 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (09) 488 7201

A striking combination of deep turquoise and slate.

kitchensbydesign.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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COMING OF AGE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ARCH HILL One of the most exciting things about the historic precinct of Arch Hill has been its evolution over recent years from cityside â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;flatsvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to a family neighbourhood with home owners who have a strong commitment to their homes and the area itself.

Since we started selling on the Hill over 10 years ago, we have seen that, as part of the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development, more and more people deciding to stay, rather than using their property as a stepping stone areas nearby. Now we witness traditional villas and cottages on the Hill being altered and expanded, so as to accompany families though the different stages of life as they occur. Walk down any street and the buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bins, Portaloos and trade vehicles are all jostling for position.

Spoilt for choice when it comes to what the location has to offer, very few owners of these renovated properties are deciding to sell, instead choosing to stay to enjoy the fruits of their labour. That is why number 29 Cooper Street is rare. Leading the pursuit of quality, uncompromising attention to design and detail, it is available for immediate purchase - still shiny from the box!

The list of those for whom design is business, both local and from further afield, gives a hint of the sum of the parts. Jones Architects and Rhombus Construction head the list, with Artedomus, B&O Casa, ECC, Aalto paints, Form Design, Blum, Miele and many more contributing.

Cooper Street has long enjoyed Special Heritage protection, and this home reflects all the glamour of the age, cleverly combined with the essentials for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle. With the location so close to everything a citysider could want or need, it all adds up.

We invite those who seek community, neighbourhood, location, heritage, design, practicality and, above all, value, to view this new benchmark home. If you know someone who is thinking about selling a property, please give them our contact details.

Call Keith 021 877 905, or Sandy 021 877 804, keithandsandy@customresidential.co.nz

@ ECOSTORE

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1. Oral Care Range $4.99 - $7.99 Flash SALE time! Save 15% between 15 and 31 May 2019 including refills. Our new Oral Care range uses safer, naturally derived ingredients and plant plastic. Our toothpaste and mouthwash harness the power of nature, including magnolia bark extract and kanuka oil to clean teeth, freshen breath and help protect gums.

15 - 31 MAY

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2. Ecostore Dish and Cleaning Range $3.95 - $64.95 Flash SALE time! Save 15% between 15 and 31 May 2019 including refills. Healthier plant and mineral-based products for sparkling dishes and a clean home. Our range of powerful plant-based cleaners helps you get the job done; for a spotless finish without nasty chemical residues.

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ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz

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MARY KELLY KILIMS, contact Mary, 021 211 890, E: mkelly@xtra.co.nz, www.marykellykilims.co.nz

Kilim rugs and runners, saddle bags, cushions, decorative pieces, leather and kilim weekend and handbags.

Sale

May 16-18, 10am - 6pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Grey Lynn Library Hall, 474 Great North Road

For further information please phone Mary on 021 211 8904, mkelly@xtra.co.nz, www.marykellykilims.co.nz

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@ DAWSON & CO TOLV - Danish heritage dictates a simple, honest design approach, where good quality and usability are intrinsic.

TOLV offers a collection of well-made products for the modern world; classics that will mellow and improve with age, and are destined to become favourites. Available now from Dawson & Co. 1. INGRID chair in Harness Brandy Leather by TOLV - $3149 2. CHERRY sofa in Westlake Diamond Fabric by TOLV - $4639 3. ODD bar stool by TOLV - $509

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4. INLAY chair by TOLV - $569 5. PENSIVE sofa in Montana Anvil Leather by TOLV - $6099

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DAWSON & CO, 115 The Strand, Parnell, or 38 Constellation Drive, T: 09 476 1121, www.dawsonandco.nz

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welcome to the autumn 19 collection Seasons change and we look to our indoor spaces with the confidence to tap into the drama of a star statement piece that can instantly change a room's vibe with it's provocative lounge appeal or just simple cosiness and wrap around comfort.

Clockwise from top left - Brooklyn Dining Table by Matte RRP $ 5699.00, Shabby Sectional Sofa in Destroyed Black by Timothy Oulton RRP $ 15,137.00, Ace Armchair in Olive Green fabric by Matte RRP $ 2099.00, Westminster 3 seater Button Leather Sofa in Buckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d n Brokâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n by Timothy Oulton RRP $ 10,315.00

Ph. 09 476 1121 info@dawsonandco.nz www.dawsonandco.nz

North Shore Showroom 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland

Parnell Showroom 115 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland

DAW S O N & C O .

HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN One of the best investments I’ve made for my garden is a birdbath.

I imagine that some people think it’s not worth the effort. It’s essential to change the water out regularly and clean the dish. If you don’t, you run the risk of your feathered friends becoming sick.

Water contaminated with faeces, rotting debris, and mould is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can spread diseases to any bird that takes a drink. Even if just one sick bird sips from the bath, the water can be contaminated and dangerous to other birds. Stagnant water also attracts insects that can transmit diseases between birds or even to other wildlife, pets and humans.

Recently, I’ve noticed that one of our dominant male tui birds has decided to monopolise our birdbath. This particular tui simply loves to bathe. He has a very prolonged and elaborate bathing technique and doesn’t wish to be disturbed. He dives in and thrashes around for a while, then he hops out, sits on the edge of the dish and spin dries. It’s the funniest thing to watch. All that blue and green plumage seems to rotate and slowly becomes fluffy. The tui looks enormous when he’s doing this. What I find most amusing is that once is never enough. This wash and spin dry routine is repeated over and over again. Sometimes this can go on for 20-30 minutes.

If my tui image entices you to get a birdbath, keep something else in mind. Cats! The position of your birdbath is important. Birds are less wary while bathing or drinking, giving a cat, or other predator, time to strike. I advise placing the birdbath at least a metre away from shrubbery and the higher it is, the safer it will be.

While we’re on the subject of size and height, there will be birds that you may not be able to cater to. Kereru will come and drink from our birdbath, but it’s not big enough for them to bathe in. However, they have their own special bathing arrangement.

One rainy afternoon, I noticed a kereru in our pohutukawa tree. This kereru was almost wedged in between the branches. It looked stuck but, in fact, it was lying across one of the branches so that it could twist and turn without falling out of the tree. Kereru love the rain.

I watched as it tilted back and forth, raising one wing and then the other. It looked like some kind of bathing rotisserie on a branch.

I think it is worth the effort to have a birdbath. It certainly attracts birds, not just in the summer months but all year round. It allows you an opportunity to see birds up close. Here’s my list of the birds that come and visit. They either drink, bathe or both. Tui, waxeyes, kereru, doves, blackbirds, song thrush and one very determined pukeko.

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

T: 378 9560 M: 0274 746 507 E: Phillipa@hotpropertyrentals.co.nz 1/1 Franklin Road, Ponsonby www.hotpropertyrentals.co.nz

“TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF BEING A LANDLORD – CALL US”

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@ ROSE & HEATHER

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1. Newport desk available in kauri or oak - 150cm long x 75cm deep 2. New Tumblehome bedside shown in honey - whitewash finish 3. Newport hall table made to size at 150cm long. Shown in black and whitewash finish.

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ROSE & HEATHER, 406 Great North Road, T: 09 376 2895, www.roseandheather.com

At Rose & Heather we make the pieces youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll only buy once. t i m b e r w i t h a h i s t o r y . . . f u r n i t u r e f o r a l i f e t i m e.

www.roseandheather.co.nz 406 Great North Rd | Grey Lynn | t: 09 3762895

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REAL ESTATE UPDATE: KAREN SPIRES Auckland has retained its podium finish among the world’s top cities when it comes to quality of living.

For the eighth consecutive year, Auckland has been ranked third by Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey, which assesses the living standards for expatriates across 231 cities worldwide.

The cities are ranked according to a number of different criteria including housing, economic environment, natural environment, public services and transport, schools and education, recreation, and sociocultural environment.

Auckland shares its ranking with Munich in Germany and Vancouver in Canada. Austria’s capital city Vienna tops the list for the 10th year running, closely followed by Switzerland’s Zurich.

The next highest-ranked New Zealand city is Wellington, which placed 15th. Australia’s top ranking city was Sydney, which achieved 11th place, followed closely by Melbourne in 17th place.

Mercer chief executive Martin Lewington said the top contributing factors in Auckland’s high ranking were quality housing, a highly stable political and social environment and strong medical and health services. However, he noted Auckland’s ongoing issues with traffic congestion was an area which would need improvement.

“While our high ranking is certainly something to be proud of, Auckland’s traffic congestion and a nationwide low score on the availability of international flights and international schools are holding us back from rising even further,” he said.

This year, the survey included a separate ranking for cities based on personal safety, which took into account a city’s internal stability, crime levels, law enforcement, limitations on personal freedom, relationships with other countries, and freedom of the press.

Both Auckland and Wellington were ranked in ninth place, with Luxembourg named as the safest city in the world. When it comes to purchasing a property in Auckland, location and school zones continue to be the most important factors for home buyers. Purchasing a

property in Auckland has become more affordable over the past 12 months as average prices in many of the regions have flattened out.

We have seen a resurgence of first-time buyers in the market, bolstered by the continued low-interest rates, lower asking prices and employer confidence.

The average sales price for Auckland decreased by 2.7% in March, and is now sitting at $856,000, according to the latest statistics from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand. For Auckland City, the average sales price fell 3.2% between February and March, and is now sitting at $981,000.

REINZ chief executive Bindi Norwell suggested that prices in the Auckland market had found a new normal for the time being as average values had hovered around the $850,000 mark for nearly three years now.

While the volume of sales increased between February and March, the number of sales was significantly down compared with the same time last year.

Much of this has been attributed to the uncertainty surrounding legislative changes, notably the proposal to introduce a capital gains tax, and also difficulty securing finance.

The number of properties sold in Auckland fell by 18.2% in March compared with the same time last year. This drop was even more pronounced in Auckland City, where sales fell by 27.5%.

Ms Norwell said vendors had been focusing on realistic pricing, and that more houses were being advertised with an asking price than had been for a long time.

Towards the end of the month there was more consistency in the market with buyers showing genuine interest and vendors who were PN more inclined to meet the market, she said. (KAREN SPIRES) F

Karen Spires AREINZ, M 027 273 8220, E karen.spires@bayleys.co.nz, www.karenspires.bayleys.co.nz

@ OREXART

Richard McWhannell 'Truth or Consequences’ 11 - 31 May, opening Saturday 11 May 11am - 3pm.

In 2018, Richard McWhannell made a trip to New Mexico and visited a town called Truth or Consequences.

It was a catalyst for this body of work. Truth or Consequences, it’s a name that conjures images of the old west - of Kit Carson and Wyatt Earp, of Geronimo, of fearsome Apache, Comanche and Arapaho, of cougars, rattle snakes and coyotes. In truth, it’s a town named after a 1950s radio game show. Truth, consequences, strange goings on.

Trees bending over, cows lying down. Like a Gothic perspective on Arcadia. Pastoralism with a sidecar of unease.

Richard McWhannell was born in Akaroa, New Zealand in 1952, graduated from Ilam, University of Canterbury in 1972 and has been a practising and exhibiting painter for the past three decades. He is represented in public collections in New Zealand including Auckland Art Gallery Toi a Tamaki, Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna Waiwhetu and, in 2016, he was the subject of a major retrospective of his work at Pah Homestead, Auckland. F PN OREXART, 15 Putiki Street, T: 09 378 0588, www.orexart.co.nz

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A Picture for Oum Kalthoum

Sunday School Picnic at Sandy Bay

RICHARD McWHANNELL

Truth or Consequences

11-31 May, Opening Sat 11 May 11am-3pm 1/15 putiki street, arch hill, auckland open tues-sat, 09 3780588

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE @ WHITESPACE Jack Trolove: Tenderise, until 24 May Jack Trolove has certainly not appeared out of the ether, but some say his paintings have. His practice thus far spans 20 years of working with the body, as political site and poetic substance.

While the social and theoretical influences in Trolove’s work have long been weighty (inter-generational trauma and healing, queer-trans feminisms, de-colonisation and critical whiteness studies) these days his work sounds, and lands, more like poetry than politics.

This is not to say that’s what’s happening. It seems he’s been learning the art of catching bees with honey. His paintings have certainly become a kind of honey. Without a doubt, they’re shameless celebration in part, but it took me a minute to realise, that’s just the hook.

His decision to make often luscious, sometimes horrific, figurative paintings, is born from a deep commitment to champion space for the non-rational world. Making paintings ‘about feeling’ is his way of corrupting masculinity’s stakes in ‘knowing’. His is a practice of thinking through the body not about the body. The artist uses figurative painting to center embodied knowledge. To support direct intuitive communication between bodies - through that live space between the body in the painting and the body of the viewer.

He makes paintings that remind us how quickly and potently we can feel. F PN WHITESPACE, 20 Monmouth Street, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz

@ THE GREY PLACE Guy Needham is a photographer whose world view was shaped by growing up on the East Coast of New Zealand.

As a travel photographer, Needham specialises in indigenous tribes, primarily drawing on themes of identity and place within cultural narratives.

In the dry season of 2018, Neeham spent time with the Hadzabe tribe in northern Tanzania, observing them hunt, cook and live in their unforgiving environment.

This exhibition is a testament to their subsistence way of living. Each portrait has been deliberately treated with a brown-hued grittiness to echo the rocks, dirt and bush of their surrounds, against a backdrop of baobab trees and volcanic boulders.

The Hadzabe of Tanzania is the fifth in Guy Needham’s Tribal series which to date has included indigenous peoples in Africa, Asia, the Pacific and South America.

A member of the Royal Photographic Society, the Photographic Society of New Zealand and the World Photographic Organisation, with images exhibited nationally, internationally and printed in numerous publications, Grey is privileged to be showing this series. All welcome to the opening event Tuesday 28 May, 5pm-7pm. F PN THE GREY PLACE, 37 Scanlan Street, M: 021 987 766, www.thegreyplace.nz

Sentinel, 2019

28 APRIL – 24 MAY 2019

JACK TROLOVE TENDERISE

20 Monmouth St, Grey Lynn, AKL whitespace.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Rob Joass - Pencarrow Rob Joass is a compulsive songwriter and touring musician. The Wellington resident is well known around the country for his numerous bands, Hobnail, Too Many Chiefs, and The Shot Band.

However, his latest tour sees him celebrate his third solo album, Pencarrow.

inviting Kim Bonnington to sing and Tony Burt to play dobro, two very well-known and respected Wellington musicians.

During an appearance on National Radio's Friday Live, host Jim Mora called Rob the hardest-working musician in New Zealand. He's a little embarrassed by this as he knows people who work harder, but he appreciates the compliment.

As if performing, writing and fronting multiple bands wasn’t enough for Rob, he also found the time to produce Kim Bonnington’s latest record and play in her touring band.

Born in Sydney, he moved across to New Zealand 25 years ago and has since recorded 10 albums in various configurations. He’s been a regular in folk music circles in the country ever since and a multipletime finalist for the New Zealand Music Awards. Twice he was given the finalist nod for Best Country Song and once for Best Folk Album.

Graham Reid has said of him, “Accomplished, powerfully beautiful, well focused songs."

Pencarrow comes five years after his deeply personal, second solo record, Black and White, and sees Rob in a much better place.

Containing eight new original songs, and a reworking of his own Best Country Song finalist ‘Baggage’, the record would not have been complete without his version of Paul Kelly’s ‘When I First Met Your Ma’.

Rob has surrounded himself with an excellent band, as would be expected. They call themselves The Small Mercies and feature Hamish Graham, Alan Norman and Murray Costello. That would have been excellent, but Rob had to add some more spice and star power,

Hobnail is having a huge year, celebrating its 25th anniversary with a national tour and ‘Best Of’ album planned, shortly after its seventh record in 2017.

Phil Taylor speaks of Hobnail, "This album has reached new heights and illustrates the evolvement of very good musicians who keep getting better.”

2018 was supposed to be a year of planning, preparation and recuperation (with regular shows thrown in, of course), but Rob had these songs that were demanding to see the light of day, so it was off to the studio once again.

Pencarrow is now available with a tour taking in Sydney, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and points in between. Rob will be sharing the stage with Mark Laurent at Cafe one2one on Saturday 18 May. No rest in sight then, and Rob wouldn't have it any other way.

PN (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F www.robjoass.hobnail.co.nz

118 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE

UPTOWN ART SCENE The dialogues we strike up with paintings take all shapes, from strong, direct narratives to unpicking secret symbols, to what author Susan Sontag called 'dynamic contemplation'.

We don’t need much to get the dialogue started - a little time to think about what we might be looking at. In Christina Pataialii’s work at Tim Melville, graffiti-style gestures suggest an urban environment, the pale blue-grey and dirty whites a wall where previous tags have been overpainted. Yet in ‘Islands In The Stream’, modulated greens become hills and the cool pale colours the sky like a pastoral landscape that is in a cover/uncover negotiation with the urban one.

A strong seam in the canvas runs through the centre of the painting like a horizon line, also covered in flat paint, yet uncovered in its obvious escarpment.

Pataialii, recently graduated from Whitecliffe’s MFA degree, has been busy: this is her first show with Tim Melville and comes hot on the heels of an acclaimed exhibition at Te Tuhi and a public project with last year’s Auckland Art Fair. We look forward to seeing what comes next.

Christina Pataialii - 'Islands in the Stream'

'On the Lam'

Matthew Browne - 'The Tilt Shift'

'Midsummer'

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Matthew Browne’s work at OREXART takes a different conversation.

The velvet matte intense colours of his geometric abstraction deny reference to the world outside their borders, preferring to encourage the painting as a thing in itself. Like any good conversation, we can argue back, making associations with textile and product design, but really it’s the play of colours that takes over the talking. These colours are sure of themselves and jostle with their neighbours.

Hovering on a raw linen ground, they turn from solid to transparent as the shapes bump atop one another. In each work, a thin band of colour moves through the shapes like a line of thought amongst chromatic concentration.

When asked how long is long enough to look at a painting, the artist Agnes Martin (1912-2004) replied, “about three minutes.” Like small talk, after three minutes we can walk away or delve deeper. The important thing is to take a few moments to engage.

PN (STUDIO ART SUPPLIES) F www.studioart.co.nz

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Official New Zealand Music Month Summit New Zealand Music Month is upon us! An opportunity for New Zealanders to get out and support local music as often as they can.

Celebrating our awesome performing artists and venues, the theme for New Zealand Music Month 2019 is Discover Live - focused on New Zealanders discovering their new favourite, homegrown live act and supporting the local live music scene across the country.

Aotearoa has an abundance of world-class talent that you can see on stages across the length and breadth of the country. In clubs and pubs, community centres and RSAs, theatres and school halls, and so many other venues, there is no shortage of live music happening every week around New Zealand.

The OfficialNew Zealand Music Month Summit makes a welcome return this May with an impressive line-up of panellists speaking on the most exciting aspect of the music industry - live performance.

Whether you are watching an emerging artist in one of the fantastic grass-roots venues around Aotearoa or soaking up a headline performance in an illustrious New Zealand theatre, there is nothing quite like the experience of seeing amazing music live.

The summit is an opportunity to listen to experts within the music industry discuss touring, performing, self-care on the road and answer questions about their own experiences. It will be held at the Herald Theatre, Aotea Square on 25 May from 10am. It will feature four separate panel sessions with industry leaders discussing every aspect of the juggernaut which is live performance.

Attendees can expect thought provoking discussions and conversation, invaluable insight and information, and there will be a chance to have any burning questions answered at the end of each session.

will tackle ‘Looking after yourself on the road’ are two of our most well-travelled artists - Tami Neilson and Julia Deans.

With a rigorous international touring schedule, Tami Neilson plays sold-out shows across North America, New Zealand and Europe.

A true force to be reckoned with, Tami has been described as "A red-hot honky-tonker, somewhere between Patsy Cline and Wanda Jackson with perhaps just a little bit of Peggy Lee sophistication.”

As the sassy and beguiling front woman for Fur Patrol, at the turn of the century, the past decade has seen Julia Deans transition from iconic rock chick to glorious songbird. With Taite, Silver Scroll and NZ Music Award nominations under her belt, she also has vast experience touring.

Chris Taite has over 20 years’ experience in live sound reinforcement.

He is an award-winning, live-sound engineer and he is regularly sound man for the top international touring acts.

Joining him to talk about production and what makes a good live performance is Tom Anderson. Tom could be found stage managing, promoting, in charge of live sound, studio recordings, and a plethora of other positions.He is the man to call for many of the biggest promoters in the country.

Mel Parsons, award-winning songwriter and self-managed and independent touring artist, will be joined by Harry Petit to talk about the promotion and marketing that goes into putting on a show and touring the country.

Four subjects have been revealed with a star-studded line-up of speakers.

Finally, joining the panellists, will be some of the top festival bookers from around the country, giving insight into what artists can do to get booked for their festivals.

Going on tour sounds like a lot of fun, and certainly appears glamorous to those who aren’t in the know. It is one of the best experiences, but it is not without its risks, problems and stress.

Touring can take a toll on artists' health, wellbeing and relationships and it is far from a guaranteed money maker! The two speakers who

Tickets are available now through Ticketmaster and are only $10, thanks to New Zealand Music Managers Forum and New Zealand Music Commission. 100% of all ticket income will be donated to MusicHelps, a charity dedicated to changing lives through music.

PN (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F

120 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2019

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

AUCKLAND TRIO GETS INTO THE FOLK MUSIC SWING Auckland Trio gets into the folk music swing with Hungarian music in its concert for First Tuesday at St Matthew-in-the-City on Tuesday 4 June.

The string trio ensemble of Elena Abramova - violin, Callum Hall - cello, and Greg McGarity - viola, play music which is guaranteed to engage and entertain. They are an ensemble that plays both the classic repertoire and exciting gypsy-tango-Irish folk music and are known for their passion and engagement in performance.

St Matthew’s is a good room for sound. It has both a rich reverberant acoustic and a clarity which suits string playing. “It is one of the best spaces in Auckland to hear strings,” says cellist and First Tuesday programmer, Mary Grieg-Clayton.

Auckland Trio’s programme includes Intermezzo by Kodaly, a String Trio by Borodin and concludes with Ernst von Dohnanyi’s Serenade in C. These three works showcase the performers and the early 20th Century string trio genre.

July’s First Tuesday concert features Music Association of Auckland with traditional and contemporary Chinese choral music.

First Tuesday in August and September will feature two organ concerts played on the great Henry Willis organ. “Mid week, lunch-hour organ concerts are a rarity and likely to attract a good audience to hear both the power and the delicate sweetness of the beautiful Willis organ,” says Tim McWhannell, another of the programmers for this growing series of concerts. F PN www.stmatthews.nz

ARTS + CULTURE @ ST MATTHEW’S CHAMBER ORCHESTRA In concert with talented Mezzo-Soprano Catrin Johnsson (R. Strauss, Mahler & Tchaikovsky).

Conductor Michael McLellan - Sunday 19 May 2.30pm. Feel the buzz - be there!

If you have not heard St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra play, then you are missing one of the finest musical experiences in Auckland.

Gillian Ansell (NZ String Quartet) says, “St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra’s players play highquality music, bringing their audiences much joy." Come and hear for yourself. For the already converted, this will be a wonderful concert. Looking forward to seeing you there. www.smco.org.nz.

Our soloist, Swedish born mezzosoprano Catrin Johnsson, is described by Norway’s NRK as a ‘queen in every way’. She trained at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and the Royal Academy of Music in London. Awards include the prestigious Christina Nilsson Award and ARAM (Associate of the Royal Academy of Music).

Catrin Johnsson

During her illustrious career, Catrin Johnsson has performed many lead operatic roles including the title role in The Duchess of Malfi for English National Opera and Dido in Dido and Aeneas for Opera Holland Park.

She is well known on the concert platforms of Europe, Scandinavia, the UK and New Zealand.

Now living In Auckland, Catrin teaches voice and stagecraft at the University of Auckland, is language and vocal coach for Voices New Zealand Chamber Choir, Auckland Chamber Choir and Auckland Choral Society and is Principal of Faculty and Curriculum for the 2019 New Zealand Singing School. F PN TICKETS Eventfinda or door sales cash only. Adults $30, Concessions $25, children under 12 free. ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY CHURCH corner Wellesley and Hobson Streets, www.smco.org.nz Auckland Trio - Greg, Elena & Callum

Auckland Trio

Sun 19 May at 2.30pm

Eastern European Exuberance Tuesday 4th June, 12.10-12.50pm Elena Abramova (violin), Gregory McGarity (viola) & Callum Hall (‘cello) perform string trios by Kodaly, Borodin and Dohnanyi.

Entry by koha.

PROGRAMME

R Strauss Serenade for Winds Op 7 in E flat Mahler Songs of a Wayfarer Mahler Oft denk’ich, sie sind nur ausgegangen Mahler Rheinlegendchen Tchaikovsky Symphony No 6 Op 74 in B minor, Pathetique SOLOIST

Catrin Johnsson Michael McLellan

CONDUCTOR

ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY Cnr of Wellesley & Hobson Street, Auckland City

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PONSONBY NEWS OUTLETS 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 FREEMANS BAY Ecostore, 1 Scotland Street Glengarry, Corner Sale and Wellesley Streets New World, Victoria Park 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 Ripe, 172 Richmond Road Tapac, 100 Motions Road Vetcare, 408 Great North Road HERNE BAY Herne Bay Post & Stationers, 240 Jervois Road Five Loaves, 206 Jervois Road Icing on the Cake, 188 Jervois Road KINGSLAND Atomic, 420c New North Road K'ROAD K'Road Business Association, 59 Pitt Street MT EDEN Citta Outlet Store, Corner Enfield & Normanby Road Sabato, 57 Normanby Road Studio Italia, 25 Nugent Street

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