PONSONBY NEWS - MAY '23

Hospo Scene

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty (NZSIR) knows how to set the scene when

and style. So we asked two of their ‘classic’ agents about local hospitality and some of their favourite spots.

Keitha McLaren and Patrick McAteer have both lived in the Ponsonby/Herne Bay area for over 20 years so know the well established and the well known places in our favourite neighbourhood.

Keitha’s love for property began with renovating and selling homes in the area. Her successful home staging business led to an understanding of how to market property to its full potential.

Patrick has come up through the ranks of sales and marketing roles, been the MD of an advertising agency, GM of a music TV channel and CEO of a film company. So he believes in doing things with enthusiasm, a bit of bravery and a dash of style.

We asked them...

Great place for people spotting?

PM: Blue Breeze Inn: Set yourself up by the windows and experience the hum of Ponsonby Road. Never fails to impress with food, vibes and service.

KM: Andiamo: No matter if it’s lunch or dinner you get to see plenty of locals and friends pulling up a chair next to you or pulling in to pick up something from the shops.

Best place for a quick stop?

PM: Liquid Lightning: For the healthy morning pick me up, you can enjoy at the traffic lights and between meetings.

KM: Daisy's: A must if you have a canine. Farrah accompanies outstanding coffee with a canine treat that sustains your dog for their morning Westhaven walk. Also Five Loaves always has an impressive selection to suit your tastes.

Best place for doing some mahi over coffee?

PM: Upstairs at Dizengoff: A Ponsonby veteran with the perfect mood. Sneak upstairs, sit by the window and get to work.

KM: Queenies: A little gem slightly off the beaten track with its distinctive ivycovered facade. Cosy in winter. Breezy in summer. Just settle in to a charming spot to tackle emails and calls.

Best place for atmosphere?

PM: Hotel Ponsonby: An amazing fit out that takes you to another era. This historic place combines the vibrancy of after work crowds, whilst letting you imagine New Zealand of old.

KM: Daphnes: Whether it’s a dinner date, entertaining clients, or a slightly rowdy gathering with friends, it’s warm, relaxed and stylish.

Great place for a long lunch?

PM: Mekong Baby: Fantastic food and function rooms, in the middle of the

action, anytime of day. Plus Mekong Baby Pure Lager is pretty hard to beat!

KM: Prego: A classic, consistent, friendly, establishment - it makes you feel part of the community and part of Ponsonby life.

Favourite place from your past?

PM: Tuatara Lounge: As a young man it was a go-to spot for a Kiwi ‘pub’ experience. Cold Steinlager and gastropub food in a great location. Perfect!

KM: SPQR: Like an old friend, it has stood the test of time. Old is gold. Long lazy lunches turn into lovely late nights.

it comes to taste

Local legend and friendly face. Benjamin Mardle, Manager of Andiamo in Herne Bay with Patrick and Keitha.

006 LETTERS & EMAILS

007 FROM THE EDITOR

008 DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

018 MIKE LEE: A TIME OF STORMS

019 PUNEET OF PONSONBY

020 GAEL BALDOCK

022 FROM THE MAYOR - WAYNE BROWN

030 ROSS THORBY: RETURN TO CRUISING

031 CHLÖE SWARBRICK: MP AUCKLAND CENTRAL

032 PONSONBY PARK

033 MELISSA LEE: NATIONAL LIST MP

034 HELEN WHITE: LABOUR LIST MP

036 HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL HOSPITALITY

036 EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

044 FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

054 LIVING, THINKING & BEING

060 FASHION & STYLE

061 LISA PRAGER

062 FUTURE GENERATION

066 PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

067 HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

078 ARTS & CULTURE

088 THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

090 HOROSCOPES

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Connor Crawford

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

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Eat-Drink-Love Ponsonby Restaurant Festival runs from 4 to 28 May. Kol Ponsonby - pictured above is part of the festival.

photography: Josh Griggs

TWO DECADES OF LOCAL

EXPERIENCE

John Wills: Proven Local Expertise

John brings two decades of local sales experience to the table for his clients. He is well known in the world of residential real estate and has seen many market cycles come and go. The current market environment calls for specialist knowledge, strong negotiation skills plus work ethic and perseverance.

If you are planning a property move in 2023, please feel free to get in touch in complete confidence.

John Wills 021 333 053

john.wills@bayleys.co.nz

ARCHIE CAFÉ RENT INCREASES

Johnny Leoung, an award-wining barista owns and runs Archie Cafe inside the Barkers concept store on Ponsonby Road.

He and his wife work together and have built up a very loyal customer base through their good coffee and food and incredibly friendly, warm, kind personalities.

The business supports Johnny and his family. They survived lockdowns and Covid. Barkers proposed to triple their rent, and after Johnny pushed back, have still doubled it. On 10 May they have to close their doors because of corporate greed. They can’t stay open with such a high rent.

This is a story of a big company pushing out an amazing and popular small business owner during a cost of living crisis and looming recession.

Jason, a sad loyal customer of Johnny and Archie.

TRAFFIC INSANITY IS DESTROYING THE INNER CITY!

I live in Upper Queen Street/Eden Terrace, and my business is on the corner of Wellesley and Kitchener Streets with access to the carpark from Wellesley Street. A decade ago, I could simply drive directly down Queen street, turn right into Wellesley street and left into my carpark. This is no longer possible. Cars are not permitted to drive the section of Queen Street between Mayoral Drive and Wellesley Street.

My short approximately one-kilometre trip by the direct route has now become a lengthy trip that includes no less than ten traffic lights. It’s even worse going home at the end of the day. As there is no right turn for cars from Wellesley street into Mayoral drive, I am forced to travel up Grafton Road all the way to Khyber Pass. It’s also illegal to use Grafton Bridge.

One can only imagine the excess emissions caused by hundreds of commuters who find themselves in similar situations all over Auckland not to mention the thousands of man-hours wasted as they navigate circuitous routes and dozens of traffic lights to get to their intended destinations.

I am moving out of the city to Matakana and am in the process of developing a new gallery in Onehunga. I imagine my commute will be slightly longer but at least I will have only

have one traffic light to deal with! And before the Greens tell me to get on a bicycle, I need my car for work.

Gary Langsford, Director, Gow Langsford Gallery

OUR POLLUTED COX’S CREEK

My name is Jack Nazer, I am aged 83 and I have lived in Herne Bay since 1987.

Fourteen years ago, I was a puppy walker for Guide Dog Services and I regularly took the puppies I was training for a run at Cox’s Bay Reserve.

At that time, there was simply a dead tree that had fallen into the creek and was partially blocking the then channel.

At that time, although the water flow was restricted, the water level near the Richmond Road end of the creek was low at low tide. Since that time, the number of dead trees has increased, and the channel has almost disappeared with mangroves expanding, which caused a further blockage.

The result is that there is virtually no water flow at the Richmond Road end where the polluted water remains stagnant.

You will have observed that in recent times Auckland Council has spent a considerable amount of our rate-payer dollars in this area on boardwalks, footbridges, cycleways, new footpaths, also tables and benches; but absolutely nothing on maintaining Cox’s Creek.

I feel it is a disgrace and that the council needs a good stir up.

To get started, I managed to get Greg Moyle, Deputy Chair of the Waitematā Local Board, to accompany me and see for himself what I was on about. He promised that he would put to Auckland Council the urgent need to clean up and restore Cox’s Creek to what it should be.

I am now looking for as many as possible of the local neighbours to support me in putting pressure on the council to get action. What I need is support, not money. If you are happy to provide this, simply send me an email: jacknazerauckland@gmail.com

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

LETTERS CONTINUED P14

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart to report that Johnny Leung and his wife Jenny have decided to permanently close Archies Café on Wednesday 10 May.

After five years in business, the landlord tried to triple their rent which made it no longer financially sustainable to continue. As one local told us, “soon, all we’ll be left with are KFC and vape stores"!

In Jack Nazer’s letter opposite, he is seeking local neighbours to support him in putting pressure on the council to get urgent action to clean up and restore Cox’s Creek to what it should be. What he needs is support, not money. If you are happy to provide this, simply send him an email: jacknazerauckland@gmail.com

After seeing a Facebook post recently showing the Western Springs Lake level being so low that cygnets were trapped and eels were stressed and dying, local resident Linda Hill organised a meeting with Vicki Adams who made the post. Together they arranged a meeting with the Waitematā Local Board Chair, Gen Sage and Deputy Chair, Greg Moyle, to

walk around Western Springs Lake to review the situation. They are still waiting to hear back from either of them as promised.

Often called the single best destination for dining in the whole of Tāmaki Makaurau, in Ponsonby we really are spoiled for choice when it comes to top notch eateries catering to all tastes and budgets. In May the PBA is running their Eat-DrinkLove Ponsonby Restaurant Festival – starting 4 until 25 May. There are 60 Ponsonby restaurants involved offering 3-fixed price menus.

Diary Date: Ponsonby Market Day is back on Saturday 13 May to celebrate Mother’s Day!

We appreciate getting Letters to the Editor each month and we publish as many as we have room for.

(JAY PLATT & MARTIN LEACH)  PN

Jay Platt and Martin Leach

photography: Connor Crawford

*Grey Lynn branch - year ending 31 March 2023

DAVID

HARTNELL:

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH BLAIR HADDOW

Blair Haddow is a real estate agent working out of Bayley’s in the greater Ponsonby area. He is very elegant in his wardrobe selection and his fashion style could grace the pages of men’s Vogue magazine.

How did you get into selling real estate?

I renovated and sold Ponsonby's first million dollar villa in 2003 at 16 Sheehan Street. This led into numerous villa renovations and the relationship I formed with my real estate agent planted the seed for me to think seriously about this as a career.

What area do you live in and what's the best thing about it?

I live in St Mary’s Bay, about 100 metres from the junction of Jervois and Ponsonby Roads. I absolutely adore the heritage feel of the area and proximity to everything that I love about Ponsonby.

What do you like the most about Ponsonby?

I love the village atmosphere and the access to so many wonderful restaurants, cafes and stores.

How have you survived the pandemic and how has it changed your life?

As many people will relate to, it was a reset on what is most important in life, and that is the relationships with family, friends, and community.

What was your childhood like?

Happy, loving and abundant.

Can you complete the sentence: I will die happy if...?

I continue to live my life as the best version of myself.

Who do you think is the most annoying celebrity today? Anyone that calls themselves a celebrity. We have it all wrong! The real stars of the show are nurses, doctors, teachers, emergency responders etc.

Which TV series would you never miss and why?

Don't watch mainstream TV.

Where would your dream holiday internationally be?

Anywhere that an Emirates A380 takes me.

What’s on your bucket list?

A safari with one of my dearest friends and well-known wildlife photographers, and the Antarctic on the French Icebreaker Ponant.

What is the most Kiwi thing about you? My passport.

Do you like an isle or window seat on a plane? Window.

What job would you do other than your own and why? Property renovations, as I love them.

How would you like to be remembered by your friends and family?

As a great loyal friend.

What do you love most about your age?

Life gets better as you get older, more maturity and access to whatever you desire.

Tell us something that you really disapprove of. Arrogance!

What motivates you?

My very early morning training sessions with my amazing friend and PT Oscar.

Have you ever seen a ghost?

Yes, in my previous career as international flight crew for Air New Zealand. In one of our overseas hotels there had been a murder so we never stayed on that specific floor in the hotel. Many crew reported seeing a ghost, which I can attest to.

Give your teenaged self some advice. Be the best version of yourself everyday.

How do you chill out?

In my beautiful home listening to music, lights down and candles on.

Which item of clothing can't you live without? My watch.

What is your favorite time of the day?

5am. My alarm is set for 4.30am weekdays as I’m up and ready to train with my amazing PT Oscar at Les Mills Britomart. It’s the best way to start a day doing something solely for myself and gives me great energy setting me up for the day ahead.

Tell us something very few people know about you. I speak Japanese.

Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person? HUG!

Do you travel light or heavy?

Extremely heavy. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM)  PN

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

CONNOR CRAWFORD

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

DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM

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

HONOUR MITCHELL

I have lived in the Ponsonby area all of my life. I write the column ‘Teen Picks’ which explores everything on offer in the greater Ponsonby area.

HELENE RAVLICH

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

KEN RING

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

LUCY KENNEDY

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

PHIL PARKER

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

PUNEET DHALL

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

ROSS THORBY

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

SOFIA ROGER WILLIAMS

A vegan for over a year and vegetarian for over seven years with a passion for writing. I am a local student reviewing some of Ponsonby’s best vegan eats.

Photography: Babiche Martens

CLARKS BEACH, LESS THAN AN HOUR FROM PONSONBY!

Clarks Beach is a pristine small coastal town nestled on the shores of the Manukau Harbour less than an hour from Central Auckland.

Clarks Beach offers calm tidal beaches, mangroves and mudflats, as well as a range of water birds, and is one of the few beaches scallops can be collected by hand at low tide.

How has 2023 been for you so far?

2023 has certainly been an interesting year so far. We are beginning to see stronger buyer enquiry back in the market place; as always it comes down to a willing seller and a willing buyer. This current economic climate makes it very difficult for both parties as often we are dealing with vast differences in perceived value from both parties point of view. Properties are taking far longer to sell as buyers are extremely particular on what they will compromise on. Life carries on, the process may be taking longer, but there are still many property transaction’s occurring.

We hear you have a listing at Clarks Beach?

Tell us about this.

Yes, this was very much a situation that I was recommending another highly skilled agent, whom is well known at the beach, and the vendors simply said, “sorry, we would really like to work with you.”

Some favourite places to eat, drink and play in Clarks Beach? Activities?

Chinwags Restaurant, Mana Thai, Clarks Beach Takeaway, Clarks Beach Golf Club. Clarks beach offers the ultimate city escape and yet is less than an hour from Central Auckland. The feeling is very community focused. The sunsets are awesome; it offers great fishing and a laid back vibe that is rare in itself.

What do you recommend vendors do to prepare their homes for sale?

Certainly a soft chem wash and garden groom enhance the properties exterior. Always try and depersonalise the property and perhaps store the bigger pieces of furniture

while the property is on the market, this will allow the spaces to really create options in the potential buyer's mind. Always have the property looking at its best and consider smell - a nice candle burning always enhances the feel good factor for all parties.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?

Clarks Beach has that 1970s type feeling. It’s great living in the central city area but certainly being able to grab takeout from Blue Breeze on Ponsonby Road and then head to the beach to watch the evening sunset on the deck while still having hot food is pretty awesome - simple escapes are always a great recharge.

JASON TROWBRIDGE

Spanish vision... 8 Taihiki Road, Clarks Beach

This property offers numerous opportunities!

Calling all visionaries.

The north-western aspect allows the sun to stream in through the arches creating a myriad of options to ponder. The location is simply one of the most sought-after at the beach, so close but yet so private and secluded.

Auction Sunday 21st May, 2pm On site (unless sold prior)

Those evening walks to watch the sunset are only a short stroll away. Conveniently located to shops and cafes.

The bedrooms offer built-in wardrobes, and the central lounge complete with a log burner creates a cosy family haven. Double internal garaging allows for ease of living, this property offers space for the entire family.

View Sunday 2:30-3:15pm Thursday 1-1:30pm or view by appointment

Jason Trowbridge

021 358 888

jtrowbridge.ponsonby@ljhooker.co.nz

in association with LJ Hooker Ponsonby

Why did Waitematā Local Board vote for an unpopular cycleway?

The Great North Road Cycleway plans from Auckland Transport have been kicked around for a while. The vote came before the Waitematā Local Board in the February meeting. The 10 minute deputations were filled with cycle lobbyists - as if they had obviously been given the heads up that this was going to be on the agenda before it was released.

None of those who had previously presented to the board, who were against it or who had alternative suggestions were given that advanced warning, so they could only give 5 minute presentations. That included the Grey Lynn Residents Association, who the WLB had given a $10,000 grant to came up with an alternative design for Great North Road.

The cards were stacked for the cycleway only supported by cycle lobbyists, the minority in the community. Then Councillor Mike Lee conveyed to the meeting the mayor’s opposition to the design. Wayne Brown biked the route on the wide footpath as was reported in the Herald. Mike also expressed his view of service to deep divisions in community to heal deep rifts - Grey Lynn shopping village are fearful of the next stage through their village. People had been vocally against a 24/7 bus lane removing car parking and narrowing of entry side street with speed bumps when many are on hills.

Interestingly, both the chair and the City Vision team chose to vote against the recommendations of their area councillor and the mayor, while the C&R members voted with the community and those further up the chain.

James Bryenton

IN REPLY TO CHLÖE SWARBRICK I WISH TO MAKE THE FOLLOWING COMMENTS:

Auckland City Council is in deep financial trouble mainly as the result of councillors with their own agenda and no responsibility for their decisions, the past mayor (Goff) and the current Green MP.

After reading Wayne Brown's report (April issue Ponsonby News) then Chlöe Swarbrick (April issue) I can now see why Auckland City Council and the country are in financial strife.

How does Miss Swarbrick expect the new mayor to turn the finances around when she is busy disagreeing with the cutbacks and is still in dreamland about her illogical ideas which are crippling not only the city, but the country.

We as Auckland City ratepayers should be getting behind the mayor, so going forward we have a city to be proud of.

When running a business, sometimes we have to make hard decisions, which isn’t always pleasing, but we take a breath and get on with it to get the results needed. Miss Swarbrick might like to be reminded that this isn’t a popularity vote!

Michele Wade, Herne Bay

THANK YOU PONSONBY NEWS FOR SUCH AN INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE APRIL READ. What a refreshing, if concerning, slap of reality to read Mayor Wayne Brown, Mike Lee, Gael Baldock, and Lisa Prager's articles.

They are all a breath of fresh air after so many years of political bloviating, submission processes that felt like a waste

of time, and a local board that often felt like an arm of the council rather than a voice of the community. While our mayor has come under vitriolic attack, it is delightful to have someone who is not a professional petty politician, reassuring and giving a sense of control, while saying nothing. I am impressed to read he actually biked the proposed Great North Road bike route and can speak on practical options. In the past, it has felt that these projects have been designed from Google Maps, without any consideration for the realities and options.

It is reassuring to have Mike Lee back representing us. Mike is a seasoned, experienced Auckland politician who has not relied on the council and specialists to provide information but rather does his own investigative work. He is one of those rare politicians who can give a well-considered contextual summary of the issues, independent of idealist ideologies for people like me to understand. Having captured the core issue, he then suggests a way forward that best serves the community.

Apart from the cost of $18,000 per metre for a Great North bike lane, we all know that in the decade it will take to finish such a project, the final price will be $30,000 plus per metre. I can give you insight into how that works. I know a specialist labourer, honest and hardworking who was subcontracted by a subcontractor of the actual contractor (you get the picture) for one of our major AT projects. What shocked me was that he was quietly told by managers to 'slow down’. This happened on three occasions, he told me. So he did that and joked about how he slowed down and fluffed about. Work that out - if you excuse the pun. It's the kind of dynamic that helps you understand how a 3.45km twin-rail tunnel can cost $5.493 billion with no end date.

In terms of simple math, that is over a billion dollars per km. As there are 1,000 metres in a km, it is indicating over a million dollars per metre. And it continues with council ratepayers over the barrel to big corporations and their PR and technical bluster. The work started in October 2015 when many were working in the city and others felt safe in the central city after dark. How things will have changed in the decade it will take to complete it.

As with the America's cup predictions, don't believe everything these projects are sold on. Mike, we so need you!

I am a cyclist and regular bus rider myself and fully and depressingly aware of global warming. What I resent are the industries and careers that develop around such issues, which suck resources without achieving outcomes.

Chlöe Swarbrick pushes against radical budget changes, yet doesn't offer specifics or smart thinking on how the council can offer services within the reality of its resources. Rather, she promotes more borrowing.

My house rates, with water rates, are now in the vicinity of $7,000 a year. With the regional fuel tax, I can add even more to that. Chlöe, please don't compare council to a private company. We are not shareholders, but ratepayers and citizens of a city, and it is not okay to play the corporate game of rolling credit downgrades and endless hikes of rates. Rather, it feels like corporations are rolling the people, who pay a price that is relentlessly moving to ‘unaffordable’.

Russell Hoban, Ponsonby

CHLÖE SWARBRICK REPLIES…

I’m overjoyed to hear about the interest our community has in Auckland Council’s Annual Budget proposals, specifically the concerns as outlined by Ponsonby’s Russell and Herne Bay’s Michele.

Russell, Michelle and other readers should know I have a strong working relationship with both Mayor Brown and Councillor Mike Lee. As I would hope of all politicians, I take the approach of saying the same things in private as in public; of fighting in office for the same things I did on the campaign trail. For me, those things are strong public services, protection of our environment, flourishing communities and reduced inequality.

Political disagreement is not a death knell for political collaboration. It’s the sign of a healthy democratic tension as elected representation of different perspectives, values and solutions seek to build the mandate for and implement change. Politicians should be judged on how they navigate this: it is our job.

Readers will hopefully understand that a short, monthly column can never provide fulsome detail of everything. Those who are interested in options other than slashing and burning community, conservation, transport and environmental outcomes in Auckland Council’s budget can find my submission guide (prompted by requests from communitymembers) which detailed other ways to raise revenue at www.greens.org.nz/auckland_council_budget_ submissions_guide

They may also be interested in the long-term advocacy the Greens and I have taken on greater revenue sharing from Central to local government, which can be found in innumerable Parliamentary speeches, differing views in Select Committee reports, media comments and campaigns.

Government budgets are not household budgets, and in fact, there is much domestic and international proof that when the state is operating austerely, it’s households who suffer through privatised, neglected and more expensive supposedly public services.

This is why I made the point, signposted for its irony, in my April column that Council’s Budget proposals fail to meet the standards citizens should expect in provision of public services and utilisation of local government balance sheet but also, perversely, falls short of standards that efficient private sector businesses would hold themselves to.

I would love the opportunity to address these views in our community, so as always, encourage constituents to touch base if you’d ever like a chat. More than that, though, I feel that perhaps the Ponsonby News could host a public meeting/debate/discussion, requesting the presence of our Mayor, local Councillor and myself, within the next month or so to be publicly accountable in outlining our views and the evidence for them on this radical Auckland Council Budget.

Swarbrick, Auckland Central MP

ARCHIE'S CAFE IN PONSONBY HAS TO CLOSE!

A message from Johnny Leung with their sad news.

"It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we have come to the decision to permanently close Archies.

"We were not able to come to an agreement with our landlord. The increase in future rent means we can no longer financially sustain the business.

"After surviving the Covid pandemic and what felt like endless lockdowns, we never would have thought that this would be the reason we have to shut our doors.

"Over the past 5 years we have been so blessed to have met so many wonderful people that we not only call our friends but a part of our family. Taking the plunge to own Archies has been on my bucket list, and to be able to tick this off and having my supportive wife Jenny by my side has made this journey one that I will treasure.

"Thank you to our wonderful staff past and present for being such an integral part of our business and for helping us provide a welcoming experience for our customers. We always worked well in such limited space.

"When I first started, we had an average of 10 customers each day, but I saw the potential and had a vision. Now present day, Archies has become a community hub; it’s a dream come true. Many of you have said that it’s like the show Cheers, “where everybody knows your name” and Jenny and myself are “always glad you came”. You all are the reason I get out of bed; seeing you guys everyday makes it worthwhile to come into work.

"It has been amazing to be able to see your children grow, whether it be a new born or a young adult - seeing families grow has brought us so much joy and happiness. Thank you for allowing us to feed treats to your fur babies - it’s a highlight of our day.

"It has been our pleasure and honour to serve the Ponsonby community. As a small family operated business we thank you for your guidance and support throughout the years.

"Our final trading day will be Wednesday 10 May 2023.

"We will be selling our equipment and furniture so if you are interested in a piece of Archie history, please let us know."

Ngā mihi, Chlöe

CAIT MCLENNAN WHYTE: BALLROOMIN

The blues dance scene in Auckland is on the up and up.

Since Rebecca Stewart and Conor Young have reinvigorated their class programme post Covid, this sensual and soulful precursor to the swing dance genre has been attracting learners to weekly classes at Pt Chev Sailing Club – a great local venue where a breather on the deck sees the sunset colour the sky warm shades of rose.

Sliding doors provide air flow to cool bodies that are often, but not compulsorily in close contact. Sure there is a certain degree of inhibition that needs to be left at the door and the close embrace can be a challenge to some, but it is certainly what delivers the sublime, lilting, movement-as-one, that echoes the distinctive rhythms of 1930s jazz and blues. Telling stories of love and longing, loss and sadness, the music reaches across cultures, though it has its origins in the enslaved communities of North America.

In the course of the last century the dance has evolved from where it began in small smoky juke joints in the South where white eyes didn’t see the grounded, down-low and earthy moves. As Black communities migrated from the rural south to industrial cities of the North and the blues developed into a bigger band sound in clubs like Harlem’s Savoy, the “ballroomin” style emerged. Space on the dancefloor enabled dancers to play with more expansive moves in response to the jazz sound.

So the genre has its differentiated techniques - drag blues is long, slow and extended movement, electric Chicago blues, a more jigging up tempo version, one-step strut blues, is fast and furious, and more recent fusion styles integrate elegant tango-esque qualities into the technique. Generally they are all less aerobic than Lindy Hop, pulsing, rather than bouncing to the beat. There is no doubt that you have to let your hips go, but the real thrill is when the pulse reverberates through the entire body in S shaped swirls of movement. There is a global community of blues dancers and almost anywhere you travel; in France, Greece, or Korea you will find a class or a club where you can feel the groove.

Rebecca started her blues career dancing and teaching in Dunedin and was a founding tutor together with Sibby Dillon at the Karitane Blues Retreat – a weekend workshop featuring international tutors. Rebecca has workshopped with some of the leading blues dancers in the world and brings this wide appreciation of the dance form and its history to her teaching.

She recognises that understanding the social context and the background of the culture and development of the dance is an important and enriching part of the experience saying, “I am a guest in this dance, created and nurtured in the States by the African-American community and because of this I find the dance invites me to reflect a lot on my role in making sure that when sharing what I know, I'm honouring the creators and custodians of blues dance.”

Now Auckland based, she teaches with Conor aka Coco, who began his professional dancing life as a contemporary dance artist and brings a technical awareness to his teaching. Together they have created a warm, encouraging and safe space to discover this partner dance form within your comfort zone.

The Auckland Blues Dance Mini Festival 28 to 30 July – three days of teaching by Melbourne dance stars Shob and Andy for beginner to advanced level dancers, with evening dancing and live music – is a mid-winter opportunity to fine tune technique or discover the dance form for the first time. Also on offer will be a virtual Q and A on the blues and its place in Black culture with Kenneth Shipp, a blues dance specialist from the US.

So to gear up proper for the weekend, there are two more block courses of four weeks in May and June, Tuesdays 7am9.15pm. Get along, let loose to the sound of the blues and get your groove on. (CAIT MCLENNAN WHYTE )  PN

www.Facebook.com/aucklandbluesdance

MIKE LEE: ANZAC DAY AND WHAT IT MEANS TO NEW ZEALAND

It is a truism that it is ANZAC Day rather than Waitangi Day that most New Zealanders now consider our true national day.

I suppose it is understandable that a day commemorating national sacrifice rather than the increasingly divisive interpretations of the Treaty should be so valued by ordinary New Zealanders. ANZAC Day by the sheer power of the collective sacrifice it commemorates continues to rise above sectional interest to bring our country together. Despite a trend to promote the bleakest possible view of the history of this nation, there is much to be proud of about the way a people from such a small country rose to the challenges of the great world conflicts of the 20th century.

In the First World War of 1914-18 the New Zealanders of the ANZACs at Gallipoli won a reputation for their courage, dash and discipline. Later, the New Zealand Division fighting on the Western Front from 1916 to 1918 became acknowledged as one of the elite fighting formations of the Allied armies.

Again, in the Second World War New Zealand servicemen and women, the 2nd New Zealand Division in particular, lived up to the exemplary standards of their predecessors.

There is a quotation from Alan Moorehead's book African Trilogy which underlined the exceptional reputation of the New Zealand Division in World War 2. Moorehead was an Australian, an acclaimed writer and historian who served as a war correspondent in the War. The episode he described was in the final months of the North African campaign.

"At last we cut through a field of cactus and beyond the main road north of Sousse. With the main road we saw the New Zealand Division coming head-on towards us in the way the enemy would have seen it coming. They rolled by with their tanks and their guns and their armoured cars. The finest troops of their kind in the world, the outflanking experts, the men who had fought the Germans in the desert for two years, the victims and the victors of a half-dozen pitched battles.

"They were too gaunt and lean to be handsome; too hard and sinewy to be graceful; too youthful and physical to be perfect, but if ever you wished to see the most resilient and practised fighter of all the allied armies, this was he."

But these formidable fighters were citizen soldiers. Their high motivation can be explained by the fact that they believed their country was well worth fighting for.

What was this country? A rather different New Zealand in many respects from that of today. Perhaps an incident just

months before the outbreak of the Second World War can help explain the prevailing egalitarian spirit that so motivated its servicemen and women of that time. The incident must be viewed within the context the national trauma of the Great Depression and how New Zealand had found a way out of it, led by the first Labour government of Michael Savage.

It was prime minister Savage, (the local MP for Ponsonby), by then increasingly ill, who personally led the passing of the government’s Social Security Act through all its clauses in 1938. It was to come into force on 1 April 1939. I quote from the Quest for Security in New Zealand by W.B. Sutch.

“To house the Social Security Department a new office building was approaching completion. For the voter it became the material symbol of the social security framework that universal suffrage had erected. Such were the deep emotions stirred by the parliamentary struggle over the Social Security Act and the tensions of the subsequent elections that the burning down of the unfinished social security building in February 1939 was felt by the majority not only as a national calamity but as the working of the dark forces they felt their votes had overcome. The majority of people had suffered in the depression, they were strongly moved when their leader Harry Holland died; they seemed almost exalted when his party steadily gave them warmth and hope.

The social security building had to be replaced and replaced immediately. While the fire brigade were still on the job the head of New Zealand’s largest construction firm, James Fletcher, put his organisation at cabinet’s disposal and with the Public Works Department… undertook within six weeks to build new social security offices on reclaimed land at Aotea Quay. The government paid for materials and labour. The contractors took no profit and the building trade unions worked two ten hour shifts, night and day, a six-day, sixtyhour week while Wellington citizens visited the job to share, to encourage, and to offer at breaks refreshment to weary workers. Within six weeks the building was completed and on 27 March 1939 it was officially opened by Savage in the presence of thousands of people, in time to mark, five days later, the defeat of poverty.”

Having won that great battle, a few months later a dying prime minister reluctantly and sadly led his people to war.

(MIKE LEE)  PN

www.mikelee.co.nz

PUNEET DHALL: SIDART – ONE OF THE MOST ELEGANT RESTAURANTS IN AUCKLAND

I am sitting in Sidart in Three Lamps, one of the most elegant restaurants in Auckland. Sharp lines, cool tones, epitome of style.

I am with a couple of exceptionally talented people. Owner and Head Chef Lesley Chandra and Front of House Manager, Joe Costello. Laid out in front of me is one of Lesley’s immaculate signature dishes, dry-aged duck from Eastherbrook farm, a local Pukekohe duck and quail specialist. The couple rearing the birds have been doing so for many decades now with the best of philosophy and intent. The duck is pan fried, charred on the skin and the sauce is a mixture of duck fat, spicy date and blood orange oil, lightly sprinkled with hazelnuts and radicchio. The taste is clean with only the merest hint of ‘game’ beautiful tannin, texture and balance between spice and sour notes.

Only a great pinot noir could be matched with such a dish to complement this plethora of flavour components. We are drinking the 2020 Cristom Willamette (pronounced in the same fashion as ‘God damn it’) Valley Pinot Noir, the most iconic pinot producer from the state of Oregon and arguably the entire United States. Why? We like to call it the ‘iron fist in the velvet glove’, translucent in colour, exceptionally supple in tannin but packed with balance and flavour from red fruit to ‘mossy’ and ‘forest floor’. It's almost as if you are in the duck hide blowing on the duck whistle, except you're not, you're actually in a glamorous cityscape setting.

As we swirl our wines and delight in our ‘tucker’ the conversation turns to the unique menu and the impressive people who have designed such an experience. Lesley and Rob are an incredible team. From the R+D in the kitchen, across the pass and onto your plate, every element of the service is refined, precise and sensory. In fact their menu is designed in parts, you choose a series of parts from a mini series comprising nine parts and lasting just over an hour to a complete series of a decadent 17 parts lasting several hours.

Lesley was born in Fiji and came to New Zealand at age ten. In his home he was always surrounded by food - He had a twin passion for rugby and the art of the culinary - we are very pleased indeed that he followed his kitchen karma. Rob is from Ireland and initially came to New Zealand for a short spell, Covid led him to reassess his options and make Auckland his home. I myself am of Indian origin, raised in London. I can relate to Lesley’s upbringing.

The Indian kitchen always has the most amazing spice drawers - fresh cinnamon quills, cardamom, star anise, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric, chill and more and more and more. The kitchen is always busy and the food is both continuous and communal; it fosters togetherness, so it's no wonder so

many talented chefs come from this extraction. Lesley’s focus at Sidart is completely on modern New Zealand tucker done in the most innovative style and taste. He’s done his time with such stellar establishments as The Typing Room in London and closer to home, Cassia and Baduzzi.

Lesley took over the reins at Sidart in 2019 and not long after walked into Covid. One of Auckland’s truly Michelin quality restaurants spent nearly two years in a state of take away service, and then as we move into 2023, Lesley, a father of three and employer of fifteen staff, is faced with the same pressures that we are all facing - a rising cost of goods and services bill in one of the most labour-intensive restaurants in New Zealand.

But this should not deter you; Lesley is determined and exceptionally talented and the experience offered to you at Sidart is second to none - the place is a Ponsonby icon and truly in safe hands. It’s a home for me. When I first came to Auckland plying my wares as a fine wine merchant, Sidart was one of my first ports of call. On many an afternoon while the team in the kitchen - with almost zen-like calmness - prepares the most insanely intensive compositions, I have sat at those tables gazing across the balcony to the Auckland cityscape and feeling blessed to be here.

And as I sit in Sidart with Lesley and Rob now, I take a bite of duck, a swig of pinot and feel glad that I stand together with such strong, intelligent, innovative, compassionate and international characters. (PUNEET DHALL)  PN

@puneetofponsonby

GAEL BALDOCK: ARE AT REALLY INTERESTED IN YOUR OPINION?

Ponsonby Road, Three Lamps

Auckland Transport ran an advertisement in the April issue of Ponsonby News to alert users of roadworks disruption at the Three Lamps end of Ponsonby Road.

This is untimely as the construction of a large complex in that last block will also cause traffic disruptions and change area dynamics. AT’s plan, in the name of ‘safety’ - reduce to one lane the current two left turning lanes into Pompallier Terrace, raise the pedestrian crossings, and move the bus stop out further into the traffic lane. (see photo from Google Earth how its already projected out from the kerb line).

If they had advertised their pre-Christmas ‘consultation’ to our readers, shoppers, commuters, retailers and residents who use this road, there may have been a larger response than just the mere 42 submitters. The most popular comments of those 42 - “waste of money” (by 6 submitters); “unnecessary/not needed” (by 6); “support proposal” (5); “help slow down traffic” (4); “improve safety” (6); “no accidents” there (4). Let’s not forget the council is trying to make savings (including from services ratepayers actually want) while AT are pushing ahead with unwanted changes disregarding the cost to ratepayers.

Great North Road Cycleway

The proposed Great North Road Cycleway has been on the cards for some time.

After receiving a $10,000 grant from the Waitematā Local Board, the Grey Lynn Residents put forward their own proposal but it was withdrawn by their internal vote after years of advocating immediately prior to the critical AT Board meeting. WLB’s ‘red team’ and chair voted to proceed with the AT design, against recommendations from Mayor Brown and Councillor Lee and the vote of ‘the blue team’. That 4 - 3 vote went to the AT Board, being divided on the matter referred it to the Council's ‘Transport and Infrastructure Committee’. After their April site visit and recommendations, AT’s Board will decide whether to proceed in May.

Meola Road and Zoo ‘user-pays’ parking

If AT had genuinely consulted on the changes to Meola Road via Ponsonby News advertising, signage along route, and not doing so pre-Christmas, then dog walkers, commuters, residents, footballers and visitors to MOTAT may have responded to: the narrowing of the Garnet Road roundabout to single lane; potentially stopping traffic 120 times a day by changing currently indented bus stops to ‘in-line’; the removal of 35 healthy mature trees; and all road parking replaced by a user-pays parking only accessible from Motions Road, between 9am and 5pm.

This user-pays parking includes outside the Zoo and its overflow outside TAPAC and Western Springs College. Here, out-of-zone students attend ‘Ngā Puna o Waiōrea’, the ‘school inside the school’ - a Te Reo Māori immersion kura. By driving, students with restricted drivers licences can save two hours a day on long distance travel time. I have asked WLB to investigate an exemption for them of $40 per week parking fee. Hopefully my design of 40 additional parks for dog walkers parking will be included in this cycleway design.

The Mayor rode the route on the footpath following the suggestion of a local cyclist who presented at the T&I meeting. This idea is consistent with AT’s installation further down GNR, opposite the Bullock Track, where the wide pavement is shared by cyclists and pedestrians. This solution ‘in paint’ can save most of the $32M budget. Further suggestions of car-carrier loading zones outside dealers; signalised crossing for Central School walking bus; keeping parking; bus lane only for rush hours to keep the arterial road two lanes wide; not narrowing entry into side streets; connecting with widened Arch Hill cycle trail; upgrading Grosvenor Street cycleway (proposed 4 years ago); and detouring the shared path into Collingwood Street/Williamson Ave to avoid impact on Grey Lynn village are also being considered.

The Strand, Parnell

Another consultation is in progress currently on the ‘qt’, for The Strand in Parnell with a dangerous corner at St George’s Bay Rd. It is an extension of State Highway 16 of freight delivery to the Port, so this is a joint venture of NZTA and AT.

The diagram proposes to widen the street toward the Port to two lanes with trucks and T3 on the inside lane. Yet if freight and containers are railed off the Port, this may be redundant. The left footpath, to be shared between pedestrians and dual directional cycle lane. A better route to access the Quay St cycleway is via Churchill St, Beach Rd and the rail bridge by the Stadium as it is safer to avoid the trucks. The sharp corner at St George’s Bay Rd needs to be signalised with the large pohutakawa in a traffic island so trucks are seperated in a softer corner. The three signalised pedestrian crossing and ‘inline’ bus stops will only disrupt freight. Consultation ended 17 April without a response from NZTA to my request for details addressing my concerns that the road corridor is too narrow to achieve the proposed layout, even with the removal of all street parking and possibly the large mature trees that line the road.

Victoria Street Linear Park

‘The ‘Centre City Master Plan’ was consulted on in 2012. This includes the narrowing of Queen Street which will eventually become a car-free mall. Construction started on 11 April 2023 on the next phase where Victoria Street will become a ‘Linear Park’ extending from Albert Park to Victoria Park.

Vehicle access will be reduced on this main arterial road, becoming pedestrianised with large trees, seating and cycleways. ‘Te Hā Noa’ (Breathing Common) is estimated to cost $34.2M, to be taken from the targeted rates paid by businesses and residents in the centre city. Retailers will not be benefiting from the removal of customer car parking, restricted service vehicle access and cutting the centre into inaccessible quarters. The Governing Body has approved this ludicrous plan led by Panūku, after their closed door meeting, and narrowing vehicle lanes on “Queen Street, from Custom Street to Shortland Street, starting in mid-2023.” Apparently it “ is to ensure efficient movement for people and goods across the city centre.” That’s not how I’ve experienced it.

www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/plans-projects-policies-reports-bylaws/our-plans-strategies/place-based-plans/ Pages/city-centre-masterplan.aspx

infocouncil.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Open/2023/04/20230420_TICCC_AGN_11397_AT_SUP.pdf

Whilst these drawings look pretty, it isn’t practical for an arterial route when businesses need service access and customers. In a future where Auckland has a working public transport system these humps and bumps, and mazes of blocked roads won’t make it ‘world class city’. (GAEL BALDOCK)  PN

GaelB@xtra.co.nz

WAYNE BROWN: MAYOR OF AUCKLAND

There was a tornado in South Auckland recently and it did the usual amount of damage that these things do.

Reporters wrote about the tornado as if it was a rare event linked to global warming, but these unfortunate localised storms have been hitting parts of our country for years and we don’t seem to be learning the lessons from them.

There is not much that one can do to avoid a tornado if it does strike, and the likelihood of one’s own home being hit is in the order of wining Lotto; but there are obvious construction choices that can reduce the impact, both physically and economically. Some forms of construction are more resistant, and others much cheaper to repair. As damage is usually primarily to the roof of a dwelling, that is where the best opportunity to make a good material choice can be made.

There was a very similar tornado that struck near where my father’s house was way back when I was learning to be an engineer and it seems that the lessons offered then have not been learned. Three main types of roof were hit, corrugated iron, concrete roof tiles and a flat roof with a torch-on membrane.

The corrugated roof was lifted up and folded back down over the ridge to reveal a gaping hole into the house which was below the road. This looked bad but within a day it had been refolded and refastened back in place. The concrete tiled house didn’t appear too bad as about 70% of the tiles had stayed in place, however the 30% that hadn’t, had fallen into the house smashing ceilings, walls, furniture and fittings. Repairs took weeks and cost heaps. The flat roof was over a retirement complex and a large chunk lifted up, including ceilings and wall parts, and was dropped outside the building. Sadly, two elderly ladies died in the rubble. This repair was also major, expensive and slow.

The recent tornado showed exactly the same thing happening. Corrugated iron lifted off but was easily and quickly repaired and heavy concrete roof tiles spread around with a large workforce involved in replacing the roof and whatever the unknown damage below was.

Why do we persevere with roof tiles? They performed very poorly in the Christchurch earthquake too.

I just hope things have worked out for those involved in the recent tornado and hope that they were insured. The recent storm showed that far too many people were uninsured and they can’t rely on the rest of us if they have decided to take that risk themselves. Lessons! (WAYNE

BROWN)

 PN

www.facebook.com/WayneBrown4Auckland

KEN RING: WEATHER BY THE MOON

Auckland weather diary, May 2023

May is expected to bring less than average rain, but more sunshine than normal. Temperatures may be cooler than average.

The first week may be the driest and sunniest with coolest nights, the second and third weeks may be changeable, while the last week may be wettest and cloudiest. It should be windiest around 10th. The best weekend for outdoor activities may be 6th/7th. The barometer may average around 1019mbs.

For fishers, the highest tides are on 19th. Best fishing bite-times in the east are around dusk on 4th - 7th, 19th - 21st, and 30th - 31st. Bite-chances are also good for noon of 12th - 14th and 27th - 29th.

For gardeners, planting is best (waxing moon ascending) on 1st - 4th and 23rd - 31st; and pruning on 10th - 18th (waning moon descending). For preserving and longer shelf-life, pick crops or flowers around the neap tides of 14th and 28th.

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

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

ST COLUMBA'S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER 12 & 13 MAY

An annual pottery sale and fundraiser for St Columba Grey Lynn's community work.

A two-day showcase of work by 46 emerging and wellknown New Zealand potters, creating an awesome display of pottery for sale is just in time for Mother's Day (Sunday 14 May).

Come and treat yourself to a unique piece of quality handcrafted pottery that will last a lifetime! Prices to tempt all budgets.

DISTRESSED CYNETS AND DYING EELS

This is St Columba's annual fundraiser to support its community work, the most visible of which is its weekly community lunch for around 50 people (happening since 2017).

Playground open for your littlies: sausages, and Nell's famous jams, chutneys and relishes for sale on Saturday morning; lots of local cafés just around the corner for coffee and delicious food afterwards.

www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087265971210

After seeing a Facebook post recently showing the Western Springs Lake level being so low that cygnets were trapped and eels were stressed and dying, I organised a meeting with Vicki Adams who made the post.

Together we arranged a meeting with the Waitematā Local Board Chair, Gen Sage and Deputy Chair, Greg Moyle, to walk around Western Springs Lake to review the situation. We are still waiting to hear back from either of them as promised.

The other name of the Lake is Te Wai Ōrea - Water of Eels. They are New Zealand natives and need our protection.

Today I received a message from community advocate, Gael Baldock saying that Auckland Council’s staff member, Barry Potter, had told her, “I’ve checked with the team regarding Western Springs. Both weirs were damaged in the flooding and both were temporarily sand bagged. The weir near Motat has now been repaired and the remaining weir (near the zoo?) is currently being repaired. Lake levels are back to normal.”

However, once again the council has opted not to "do it once and do it right". Contractors working on the weir referred to by Barry Potter confirmed this is only a temporary solution. The tree to the right of the weir needs to be removed as the root system is causing issues that will only get worse over a short time. Will the councillors responsible for this Auckland gem listen to the recommendations proposed by the contractors, or we once again have to see our Western Springs Lake and its inhabitants in distress?

(LINDA HILL)

GREY LYNN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION NEWS

Kia ora koutou! We hope you're all doing well and enjoying these warm autumn days. We've been up to a lot this past month, and we wanted to share it with you all.

In April, we had the pleasure of hosting Alf Filipaina on a walkabout of Grey Lynn Village to discuss the impact of major crime and explore potential ways that council could assist. Alf has been appointed by the mayor as his liaison for this and is working closely with council, central government, and the police. We gathered feedback from the community before, during, and after his visit, and he'll be attending one of our upcoming networking events to talk more with our business community.

Speaking of networking events, we held another successful one at Romulus and Remus and we'd like to give a big thanks to the hosts. Our guest speaker was Murray Hill, Manager for Milford Business Association who shared some insights on the benefits of becoming a BID (Business Improvement District). As you may already know, the Grey Lynn Business Association has started working toward becoming a BID for 2024. Murray shared his experience with the journey that Milford undertook as well as the benefits and strategies they have undertaken since.

Becoming a BID means that association activities are funded through a targeted rate paid by commercial premises owners and businesses in the defined district. This greater level of funding and surety of that funding allows a Business Association to better organize and support activity that will enhance the community for all types of businesses including hospitality, retail, office, health and wellbeing, and other premises. While a large part of that funding is focused on promotion to draw more people into the area, there is still a large element of advocacy which falls under the catchment of a BID. Rather than just relying on the small group of voices we have now, the BID environment gives us an easier path to communicate with all who have ‘skin in the game’ so we can DO more and BE more as a community.

We know it's a lengthy process as it requires us to talk to and canvass the wider GL business community and seek their input and approval, but we’re a dedicated team, committed to sustainability, equity, inclusion, innovation and social change, so we’ll be out there talking to more members in the coming months.

FYI: We hold networking events on the first Wednesday of every month, and we'd love to see you there. Keep an eye out for our email or Facebook post for details on the next event or join the GLBA at www.greylynn-around.com

Great North Road

In early April, the Council Transport Committee took a site visit along Great North Road to see for themselves what the AT plan was all about and if they thought it was value for money – and some did it on bikes. GLBA is keen for the development of GNR, whether this includes a cycleway or not, as more residents and businesses move into the area. We don’t want this to be just a transit corridor bringing people from the West to the City. We've always wanted more; a sense of place, a revision of the area making it attractive and usable for all.

Our vision is for increased ground-level cafes, eateries, shopping, and services with trees and seating areas – places to linger once you’ve gotten off the bus or places to shop on your way. Bike lane or none, we’d like to see the area developed and we’d love to know your thoughts too.

We're now looking forward to May and our next event, as well as planning for the BID process. We’d love to hear from you if you’re keen to be an advocate in your area or help out in any other way with ideas and feet on the ground. We're always striving for inclusion and representation for all businesses, celebrating diversity and business innovation, so we're excited about the future of a progressive urban and business environment in Grey Lynn. Perhaps you should join us for our next event to be part of the conversation. Find out more on our social media pages.  PN

www.greylynn-around.com

Alf Filipaina

Grey Lynn Business Association - Murray Hill

@ LEYS LITTLE LIBRARY

Kia ora Ponsonby.

May brings the Writers Festival to Auckland but before that gets underway, you are warmly invited to Little Leys for an evening with author Linda Olsson on Thursday 11 May, 6pm. Linda Olsson is a Swedish-born novelist who lives in Auckland. Published in 2003, her first novel Let Me Sing You Gentle Songs, is an international best seller and has been translated into 15 languages. More recently she has published A Sister in My House, and The Blackbird Signs at Dusk. Linda will be chatting about her books and life. Join us for a glass wine, light refreshments, and a very interesting talk.

Term two is now in full swing. Wriggle and Rhyme is back on Wednesdays for our infants, toddlers and their caregivers. Come along on Wednesdays. We run two sessions, at 10am and 11am, at the Ponsonby Baptist Church Hall (Corner of Jervois Road and Seymour Street). It’s a cheerful morning of music and movement for little ones plus an opportunity for parents and caregivers to meet others in our neighbourhood.

BOOK REVIEW - CLAIRE

Faith, Hope and Carnage by Nick Cave & Sean O’Hagan. Nick Cave, the musician, has an honest conversation with the critic Sean O’Hagan. With over 40 hours of interviews,

which started during Covid 2020 via telephone, the book is in question-and-answer format and is not your normal memoir. Cave’s son Arthur died at the age of 15 after an accidental fall from a cliff. This loss has spurred Cave on to be a better person and he reflects on how things have since changed. From his creative endeavours, past addictions, his work with Red Right Hand Files through to his thoughts on faith and the love of his wife, he talks thoughtfully and with candour. Grief is talked about openly: ‘The loss of my son is a condition; not a theme’.

This book is for anyone interested in the creative process, grief, and the existence of faith.

Claire hosts the Leys Institute Book Chat at 10am on 4 Thursday every month at Ponsonby Community Centre. Come along if you’re looking for a space to chat about books and hear about some interesting and in demand titles while enjoying tea and biscuits with new friends.

Hours: Monday - Friday 9am – 6pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm, Sunday closed. (CHLOË - Manager Community LibraryPouārahi, Pātaka Kōrero ā-Hapori)

COMMANDING VIEWS - FAMILY SIZE!

Executive sub-penthouse residence perched high on the ridge of Freemans Bay. Generous 178m² floor area, with a separate entry door, you can even close off part of this freehold home which is ideal for teenagers or guests to have their own space. Electric car charging to your 2 car parks. Pet Friendly. Big storage locker. Well run, sought after building/location. Enjoy poolside lounging and tennis court time without leaving home. Indulge in al-fresco dining, after-work wine tasting, and breath-taking city views from this unique apartment in Freemans Bay.

Please get in touch today to arrange a time to have a look through.

Aaron Cook

021 612 642

a.cook@barfoot.co.nz City 09 307 6340

LEYS INSTITUTE LITTLE LIBRARY, 14 Jervois Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

PONSONBY U3A: APRIL 2023

Auckland City Mission

Carol Herbert, newly appointed Community Fundraising Specialist at the Auckland City Mission, was the main speaker at Ponsonby U3A’s April meeting.

Carol stepped members through the many iterations undergone by the Mission, from its inception in 1920 (when it was founded by Jasper Calder to help those with the greatest need), to the Mission it is today. The intention has remained the same, but the focus over the years has changed. Prisoner rehabilitation, night shelters, and child trauma centres have given way to the wider issues of housing, hunger, and health. All three are seen as fundamental human rights and delivering related services is in accordance with the values of hospitality, justice, partnership, and compassion.

Homelessness can beset anyone and may result in sleeping rough, living in a car or in unsafe conditions. The City Mission has turned the usual selection model for the housing options it offers upside down. Instead of waiting for clients to be ‘clean and mentally well’ they first get them into housing so that the other things can follow. The Mission offers a wide variety of temporary and residential housing for men and women according to need.

One in five New Zealanders struggles to put food on the table. Money for food is becoming discretionary for many, once mortgage/rent, petrol, power, and medical bills have been paid. The Mission delivers on average per week, over 1000 food parcels for individuals or for a family of four to last four days. As well, it delivers 9000 food parcels at Christmas time and provides a cooked meal for up to 300 people daily from their communal kitchen.

The Mission has set up at HomeGround the Calder Health Centre which offers low-cost access to doctors and nurses. They also reach out to visit rough sleepers. Additionally, a residential withdrawal programme provides support and medical and detox facilities.

HomeGround, built by, for and with Aucklanders was opened in February 2022. It is a dream well realised and a credit to Aucklanders and all the volunteers who contribute.

Ponsonby U3A member, Arthur Valabh was the ten-minute speaker. Former tax partner at Deloitte, he was involved in government policy formulation and the wider economics of the 1980s and 1990s. Arthur outlined the key change drivers needed to understand how the economy can meet our needs. They comprise societal changes like women’s participation in

the workforce, environmental impacts such as sustainability and most of all, demographic changes like life expectancy, urban drift, and migration. This macro view enables us to view our needs and opportunities as a country. And Arthur went on to define these.

Visitors and new members are welcome to Ponsonby U3A. You may be new to the area, a bit lonely or at a point in your life where you are looking for fresh interests and challenges. There is a meeting on the second Friday of each month (except January) at the Herne Bay Petanque Club featuring a guest speaker drawn from diverse spheres of endeavour. Also, a member gives a ten-minute presentation on their life and/or interests.

At the heart of the club are the nearly thirty special interest or study groups that meet once a month. Members are encouraged to choose one or more groups covering about thirty different topics. Usually held in small groups in people’s homes, this is where the learning happens and the friendships are made.

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

NEXT MEETING: FRIDAY, 12 May at 9.30am.

GUEST SPEAKER: Dr Mels Barton, Kauri Rescue.

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

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

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

Carol Herbert

BECOME A FRIEND OF KELMARNA GARDENS FOR AS LITTLE AS $5 A MONTH

LESSONS FROM OUR FUTURE SELF

Sydney, as we all know, has much in common with Auckland – a CBD that faces onto a magnificent harbour, a North Shore, a harbour bridge, beautiful beaches, a temperate climate – and a whole lot of Kiwis!

Sydney's population is around 5.5 million. Auckland will eventually top 4 million. So it isn't much of a stretch to see in Sydney the future Auckland. Or, if we're smart about urban and infrastructure planning in Tāmaki Makaurau, the future Auckland can take the best bits of Sydney, and avoid the pitfalls of the not-so-good bits. Here therefore are some brief personal observations from a recent visit to our biggest Aussie neighbour:

The good bits:

· Light rail in the CBD and central suburbs. Easy to use, looks good, well integrated with other public transport (mainly rapid transit rail and ferries) and 100% reliable. Far cheaper to install than underground rail, because it uses the existing road network.

· Rapid transit passenger rail, mostly underground in the CBD and out to the airport. Faster than light rail in the roading corridor but not as accessible, so better for longer, cross-town journeys. High quality carriages and stations. Both modes – rapid transit rail – which we would have to put largely underground – and light rail in the road corridor surely have a place together in Auckland.

Graffiti, broken street furniture, piles of rubbish, dirty public spaces, overgrown green spaces – almost non-existent, unlike Auckland. Sydney takes pride in itself. If the Auckland Council think it's okay for Tamaki Makaurau to look "third world", we'll soon be third world. Not part of my plan!

Visible Police presence – there is one. The vibe in Sydney at night is far safer than Auckland. No coincidence there.

· Public art installations – "self-pride" on show again. It's not an entirely novel idea – but we could go one better in the Waitematā Local Board area, with an integrated network of magnificent public art – a simple, elegant way of creating walking tour routes that guide residents and visitors into the places that we want them to see (think Newmarket, The Domain, K Road, Ponsonby, CBD) and a great way of supporting the visual arts sector and showcasing our culture.

Thriving hospitality outlets in the CBD. Hospitality = people. People = lifeblood of cities. Simple. How about investing some council money to seed hospitality outlets into the unwelcoming hospitality death zone that is Queen

Street? (Auckland Council, BTW, is not broke – it just spends its money on the wrong things).

· A beautiful waterfront, with (mostly) well-designed public spaces, giving access to the water's edge – and one of the world's iconic examples of destination architecture and civic pride - the Sydney Opera House. Auckland's waterfront is essentially an ugly industrial port zone, fenced off to the public … but the good news is that we have a blank canvas on which to wow the world (cue –let's not waste the opportunity).

· Dual harbour crossings – do we really need to be taught this lesson? Our 100% reliance on Auckland's brittle Harbour Bridge – which has always been one of our best "how not to" examples ("we'll only ever need four lanes") is surely Auckland's, and New Zealand's, single greatest infrastructural risk. Sydney has a bridge and a tunnel, with another tunnel on the way. The Govt has announced that it will fast track Auckland’s second harbour crossing, but the route has yet to be selected. Let’s see some action on this before it’s too late.

The not-so-good bits:

· Pitt Street cycleway – the major blemish in an otherwise well-connected network of cycleways. Has produced total gridlock in the CBD. Just ask the taxi drivers who can't deliver passengers and their luggage to central city hotels. No large-format CBD entertainment/sports facility. These facilities produce huge economic spinoff and, built the right way (fully enclosed and adjacent to existing public transport hubs and hospitality outlets), huge public amenity. Melbourne, not Sydney, teaches us this lesson. I'd rather see Elton John in a beautiful, dry Auckland waterfront stadium, than wearing a rain poncho and gumboots, in tired, old world stadia that I have to trek through suburbia to reach.

… and, last but not least, Sydney's ultimate "OMG what were they thinking moment” – Circular Quay! Functional but "off the dial" ugly. This perhaps provides the greatest lesson from Auckland's future self – don't accept second best if you want to be world class.

Genevieve Sage Chair, Waitematā Local Board

DAVENPORTS LAW: TAX

CONSIDERATIONS WHEN GIFTING, LOANING OR OWNING

George and his partner Sam wanted to buy a house.

As it was their first home, they could use their KiwiSaver and they had each saved enough to have a reasonable deposit, especially now that prices had come down a bit. George’s parents always said that they would help him out when he was looking to buy his first home in the same way they had helped his older sister, Eve, a few years previously.

the bank that it wouldn’t charge any interest to George and Sam. Without that document, the bank would treat the money from the trust as another loan that George and Sam had to pay and that would limit what they could borrow from the bank. George’s parents thought they could have an unspoken agreement that if the house was sold, the trust would get its money back as well as a proportionate increase in value. However, the lawyer trustee pointed out that would be income to the trust and would be taxable in the hands of the trust.

Tammy McLeod

George knew his parents had a trust and that the help to Eve had come via the trust. His parents’ lawyer was a trustee together with both his parents. George knew his parents owned their home and business through the trust and that the business had been doing well over the past few years. He also knew that he was able to ask for more exact financial information under the new Trusts Act. But he also respected his parents and didn’t like to ask too many questions – even though Sam thought he should be asking more questions.

George’s parents said they had talked to their co-trustee and the trust was prepared to invest in the property with George and Sam. They said that their co-trustee had recommended against making a gift directly to George as they wanted to ensure that any funds would ultimately be for the benefit of George only, if he and Sam split. But they said that while the business was doing well, there wasn’t a lot of spare cash, and they did expect to get a return on investment. They couldn’t afford to simply give some cash to George in any event.

An option was to lend the funds to George and Sam. But to do that, the trust would have to sign a document to say to

The last option would be for the trust to own a share in the property. This came with its own complications. Firstly, the bank would require the trust to be a co-borrower on George and Sam’s lending. The banking rules had changed over time, and it wasn’t like the “old days” when banks could lend to only one owner without the other owner having to be a borrower too. Secondly, their trustee said that as the house wasn’t the trust’s primary place of residence, the trust’s share would be exposed to tax under the bright-line rules if the property was sold for a profit within ten years of the purchase.

It seemed that unless the trust was prepared to lend the funds without any interest payable, there was a possibility that tax would need to be paid on the increase in value.

The trustees decided to help on the basis that the title to the property would be in George and Sam’s names only, but there would be a separate document stating that George and Sam would be holding a percentage of the property “on trust” for the trust. The trustees knew that this wouldn’t get around any bright-line tax, but it would mean that they wouldn’t need to be co-borrowers with the bank, and it would more accurately reflect the situation.

Even something as simple as helping a child into a property can have unintended tax consequences and it is always important to obtain tax advice.

Trusts, Assets and Tax Implications.

Trusts are invaluable asset protection mechanisms, which allow a person to hold property and assets on behalf of another for the good of the beneficiaries.

However, when you’re dealing with transferring assets in or out of a trust, it is important to consider the tax consequences. There needs to be careful planning and structuring, often with your accountant and lawyer working together.

To get specialty advice for your situation contact Tammy McLeod or one of her team.

ROSS THORBY: "I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT SORT OF COLT MRS B MIGHT CARRY"

So now the long sea days stretch before us.

Our first port of call will be Hilo and it appears that life on-board the good ship Lollypop has virtually returned to normal. There are few masks and very little coughinganyone with an inclination to cough suppresses it vigorously rather than suffer accusing stares and recriminations in this post-covid environment.

Cunard, for its part, seems to lay on thick a sense of normalcy, especially poignant considering this world cruise is their celebration of the world’s first world cruise in 1923. So it is with normalcy in mind that the dinners and parties have begun once again and tonight’s gala dinner promises to be a grand affair - for it is my dinner with “Mrs B”.

I had first clocked Mrs B (name changed to protect the innocent) in the embarkation line in San Francisco, a few days previously. She, a diminutive figure in a black designer dress, swathed in diamonds and Manolo Blahnik and with a full set of instructions to all those hovering around her. I decided definitely destined for the first class suites. Her taut, tanned skin belying her not insignificant age. She told me later that her face had put many children through college. That much was obvious.

She sat regally in a wheelchair - because of course, why walk when you can be pushed while the officers and staff ran around attending to her every need - bringing her the documents - no standing (or sitting) at the reception counter for her and far be it to collect her own boarding key - that was handed to her by her onboard butler.

I did nothing more than a glance and nod in greeting, I promise, but when I entered my stateroom this morning, I was greeted with an invitation to dine in one of the ship’s private dining rooms, with the lady I was to get to know as Mrs B.

Mrs B, I discovered, was from Akron Ohio where she stated the only claim that the city has to fame is that it’s the Rubber Capital of the US - (her family being instrumental in) and she lives there.

Remembering her finery whilst boarding, there was nothing for it but to don my finest glittery jacket, put on my most obsequious demeanor and proceed as commanded. We were a select table, with the captain’s secretary (the captain had sent his regrets) and one of the senior officers, our only restrictions being no discussion on politics or sex. Both rules were broken once the first bottle of champagne was disposed of.

Fannie, it turns out, was quite the story teller.

After arriving in her suite that first day, she was contacted by the ship’s housekeeper and informed that her Chanel bag and Louis Vuitton luggage had made a close acquaintance with the San Francisco Harbour. Her dresses had survived - if a little damp, however her chocolates and kindle had not.

What followed was a short discussion regarding the merits of dry-cleaning her selection of haute couture and what must have been a mountain of clothing and intimate apparel.

A little later she was contacted again and asked to attend the security office. Here, she was interviewed by SECO himself, asking why she was concealing a weapon and trying to smuggle it aboard.

"A weapon?" gasped our surprised host. "All of my guns have been left at home." (I can only imagine what sort of Colt Mrs B might carry.)

It appeared however, that SECO was not referring to her collection of weapons, but a knuckle duster that had been found in her now saturated Chanel bag.

"Ahh well, yes,” explained our feisty host - all five foot two of her - as she displayed her $50,000 Alexander McQueen handbag with a clasp shaped like a knuckle duster, decorated in diamonds, skulls and the biggest amethyst you have ever seen - "that is quite another story."

Oh, how we laughed. Oh, how she laughed. Oh, how we laughed at her laughing.

Our heroine then reminded security that she used to be a lawyer. Enough said. I might pull back a little on the accusations, Mr Cunard!

Fannie was due to leave the ship in Sydney, but had decided that as all of her houses (!) were closed up for the season, she may as well stay in her $3000 a day suite for the remainder of the cruise. That’s another 74 days. Oh how the other half live!

Dessert was Rum Baba, which was swimming in rum; I had two, so did Fannie.

I love Mrs B - she’s me in a pink frilly designer gown, but somewhat short of her millions. (ROSS THORBY)  PN

CHLÖE SWARBRICK: Auckland Central MP

The highly anticipated independent review of the Auckland Anniversary flood response was published mid-April, laying bare challenges in communication, leadership and responsiveness.

One of the key issues Mike Bush identified - disconnection from the front-line - resonated strongly with my experience that fortnight between the flooding and Cyclone Gabrielle. This was as basic as a central repository of places where people could receive or offer help, which after asking Council and Civil Defence for multiple times to no avail, my team and I hit the phones and created ourselves.

There are 17 recommendations in the report and all of them need to be urgently implemented. We can do more than just prepare better for the next unpredictable emergency, though. We can and must fix the business as usual decision-making systems, which see political leaders presented with information and choices artificially constrained by assumptions about which voices, experiences and outcomes matter.

We can break down the chains of command that see slow movement of critical information and systemic inertia; where no one person can ever be responsible for anything going wrong, because there’s ironically also no space for anyone to take the initiative to ensure something goes right. That recalibration starts as simply as picking up the phone and talking to the people doing the job at the coalface, bypassing gatekeeping of information (intentional or not).

That’s the approach I’m taking to very serious concerns about the safety and operation of our Central City Fire Station. With asbestos discovered in the building towards the end of last month, our firefighters and equipment have been redistributed throughout the city. While Fire and Emergency New Zealand tell me not to worry about response times, frontline firefighters paint a more straight-up concerning picture about the ten plus years they’ve tried to get the asbestos issue looked into, long-term underinvestment in the station and their gear, and frequent dismissal from the layers of bureaucracy. I will continue to work with them on solutions in the short and long term.

Across the road, our local St Johns face similar challenges with long-term underinvestment. I had the privilege of going out with the team on a busy Friday night a few weeks ago and saw first-hand what ‘ramping’ really means - holding patients in ambulances while our hospital emergency rooms are under the pump.

Paramedics told me that alcohol continues to generate many of the situations they’re called out to. Poisoning is one thing, but the association to 26% of suicides (as Otago University research found last year), the fights and injury are another entirely.

Successive governments have commissioned research on what to do about alcohol harm, only to subsequently ignore the politically inconvenient findings.

Criminal prohibition of substances doesn’t work, which, ironically, most of the Western world learnt from the failure of alcohol prohibition. People didn’t stop drinking and alcohol didn’t stop being made; it went underground, where it was unregulated, generating harm, crime and violence. This is why the answer is sensible regulation. You don’t get that by handing over too much power to commercial industry, enabling normalisation and glamorisation and excessive consumption.

You get sensible regulation through the likes of interventions proposed by my Alcohol Harm Minimisation Bill, which was backed by an extensive list of NGOs and councils that represented more than half of the country’s population. Unfortunately, partisan politics proved the winner during its First Reading and Parliament has once again kicked the can down the road.

That said, our advocacy and campaign forced the Government to introduce its own Bill to ensure greater community participation around the control of off-licences, effectively adopting the first half of my Member’s Bill.

The advocacy continues for Auckland Central, for drug harm reduction, a fairer economy, healthy public services and a flourishing environment. As always, these columns couldn’t hope to contain all the mahi, so please reach out if you’re keen to get involved, raise an issue, or need support.

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

(CHLÖE SWARBRICK)  PN

Green Party Co-Leader James Shaw sits with Chlöe Swarbrick & local firefighter Josh Nicholls at the Pitt St station

Photography: Tim D

PONSONBY PARK+ MAY 2023 UPDATE

Good news - Ponsonby Park is progressing well!

The Community-Led Design Group for Ponsonby Park, the new civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road, has had several meetings with council officers tasked with realising the project. It is an exciting time and it is uplifting to finally be making significant headway after so many years of delays and waiting.

The ‘Request for Proposal’ (RFP) has gone out to the shortlisted design practices and these were due to be returned by today, 20 April - press deadline day. There are three design practices vying for this prime project. By the time you read this, the RFPs will have already been returned and undergone evaluation. Two design practices will have progressed through to a face-to-face interview and discussion, and council’s ‘awarding process’ will be concluding. The aim is to appoint the successful design company by the end of the first week in May.

Brilliant!

It has been 23 years since the need for the civic space amenity was first identified in 2000, and 17 years since the site at 254 Ponsonby Road (currently LiquorLand) was purchased to remedy this open space shortfall. It was 10 years ago in 2013 that a petition with over 1200 signatures (calling for the retention of the whole site for the civic space) was presented to the Waitematā Local Board.

The result of this was the establishment of the Community-Led Design Group, which has been working hard to achieve this community amenity since then. The Community-Led Design Group will be part of the ongoing ‘Design Group’ working alongside council officers and will continue to actively advocate for the outcomes you have told us are important.

Ponsonby Park will be a wonderful community amenity, meeting existing needs, as well as being an exemplar of community engagement, design excellence, and delivery. So we’re delighted that the transformation of the neglected

and shabby site at 254 Ponsonby Road into a beautiful and energised civic space for everyone to enjoy is now underway and progressing well.

The Ponsonby Park development will benefit not only the local residents and local businesses but also all visitors to Ponsonby. Ponsonby Park will be a wonderful attractor to the area and will provide both the amenity that Ponsonby needs and the community heart that it deserves.

Be happy - Ponsonby Park is happening!

(JENNIFER WARD)  PN

For further information, or to view the archives of the Community-Led Design process that resulted in the international award-winning Park+ Concept Design by LandLAB, please visit our website 254ponsonbyrd.org.nz

MELISSA LEE: NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN AUCKLAND

With Anzac Day on 25 April, the month is timely to remember the many New Zealanders who have given their lives, careers and service towards New Zealand and democracy across the world.

We celebrate Anzac Day as a special moment when we come together across communities, age groups and cultures to acknowledge those who gave their all in the dark nights on the high seas, in the deserts of North Africa, on patrols in Korea and Vietnam and, of course, in the mud-soaked battlements of the Western Front and dust of Gallipoli. The memory of each of these conflicts is embedded into the New Zealand spirit, not just as a public holiday but as a reminder of the constant need for peace, democracy, and a better world for all.

In recent weeks you may have seen my Anzac newsletter which was delivered out across suburbs Grey Lynn, Cox’s Bay, Point Chevalier, Westmere and Albert-Eden to ensure everyone had the opportunity to join together this Anzac Day. Across Auckland, as of writing this month’s column, there will be upwards of 70 different services held in suburbs and communities from the Bombay Hills to the borders of Northland.

I’ll be commemorating in the heart of the city, at the Dawn Service in Auckland Domain, in commemorations and at RSAs in Point Chevalier, Grey Lynn, Three Kings, and Mt Albert. Where I have the opportunity to lay a wreath or a poppy or make a speech about our ANZACs, I look to my heritage and the knowledge that I was able to live my life away from the fear of war because of the service of the New Zealand Kayforce that went to the cause of freedom in the Korean War.

This year I will specifically be remembering some very special veteran friends who I have lost since last Anzac Day. Wally Wyatt MNZM, lately the final Treasurer of the former New Zealand Korean War Veterans Association, passed away aged 90 a few short weeks ago in February and had remained a key figure for Auckland’s veteran community to his last day.

I will be remembering the late Alice Wylie QSM of Mount Albert, aged 99, (where Alice Wylie Reserve was named in her honour) who every year was an integral figure in the Mt Albert service having personally known many veterans of the World Wars and Korean War that are now long passed due to her many years on active civil service in our community and in her active pursuit of the history of Mount Albert’s contributions to the home front through the Mt Albert Historical Society (mtalberthistoricalsociety.org.nz/wp-content/ uploads/2020/01/2008_07_7_MAHS_Newsletter.pdf)

I will also be remembering those names recorded on the cenotaphs of Auckland and the minds of our community. We can find the names of Auckland’s war dead etched in our community. People like Hector C Porter of 41 Sherwood Avenue ( www.nzwargraves.org.nz/sites/default/files/story_ files/Hector%20Porter.pdf) who fell at El Alamein in Egypt in 1942 and George Arthur Page of the Auckland Mounted Rifles and Grey Lynn resident who lies at Gallipoli’s Canterbury cemetery in ANZAC Cove, aged just 24. Many of us gather to remember grandfathers, fathers and brothers, grandmothers, mothers and sisters or past neighbours not forgotten, and some may remember children, nieces or nephews who have not come home.

Today there are tens of thousands of veterans and their families in New Zealand who alongside those on active service overseas in far flung locations from the Middle East to Korea, Canada and the United Kingdom, remain a constant link to that ANZAC spirit and New Zealand’s contribution to a more peaceful world. So, as we remember each Anzac Day, we remember them, and we pause and give thanks.

As Anzac Day passes, we will still remember them. We will remember them. (MELISSA LEE)  PN

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

E: mplee@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

Melissa Lee ANZAC Day Mt Albert Service

HELEN WHITE: LABOUR LIST MP BASED IN AUCKLAND CENTRAL

A message from Helen White.

The role of government has a great deal of importance. For many issues, the best place and way to govern is locally. All councils, including our own Auckland Council, play a role in promoting the social, economic, environmental, and cultural wellbeing of their communities. These are written into law in the Local Government Act 2002, which includes a specific commitment to the consideration of future generations. This is a long-term view which I think is really valuable.

In 2019, this Government introduced the first ‘Wellbeing Budget’ for New Zealand, founded on the idea that financial prosperity alone is not a sufficient measure of the quality of life. Rather than just a relatively high rate of GDP growth, we also measure and focus on what New Zealanders value – the health of our people and our environment, and the strengths of our communities. Success is making New Zealand both a great place to make a living, and a great place to make a life.

These principles have played out through policies like the Winter Energy Payment, increased mental health support, additional financial aid for families, and funding for support to our wider ethnic communities. The discipline of always asking, ‘how will this improve wellbeing?’ is a great contributor to developing a fairer country when creating any budget.

I understand the desire to keep rates down and I don’t underestimate the difficulties our councils face in determining their budgets. However, I was alarmed by the proposed budget cuts announced by the Auckland Council and particularly the risk they pose to the wellbeing of our city. With that in mind, I recently hosted a public meeting on the subject. I invited councillors to come along and listen to representatives who talked to the value of the work being funded and the impact of some of the proposed cuts.

Kate Anderson, a senior manager from the Auckland City Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), told the audience about the value of the work CAB do. The organisation fears that proposed cuts will detrimentally impact the wellbeing of Aucklanders during times of crisis. For example, if your marriage breaks up, you may need counselling, lawyers, housing, banking or budgeting advice, and CAB can explain how to access this help. In fact, CAB relationship advice was recently valued by a consultancy set up by former Prime Minister Bill English and found to return $13 in value for every $1 invested.

We also heard about the value of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited in nurturing the hospitality sector during Covid-19, and

Sir Bob Harvey talked about the value of libraries and the arts in building our community during a time of need. He discussed our human need for joy and hope, which can be found through fostering human connection in places like our libraries. I couldn’t agree more.

Councillors Julie Fairey and the Honourable Christine Fletcher shared that they saw the draft budget as a starting point rather than a fait accompli, and all the councillors present agreed there was room for significant change. My advice is to actively engage with councillors about your views on the budget, and make sure they know what you value for our city.

(HELEN WHITE, Labour List MP based in Auckland Central) www.labour.org.nz/helenwhite Funded by Parliamentary Service

FOR THE LOVE OF A BUILDING

Being part of the Leys Institute co-design group has made me reflect on how much our community buildings can hold meaning and affection for those visiting and utilising them.

When something happens to a beloved public building it can be traumatizing, but equally, seeing the renewal of the same building with new amenities and purpose attached can be uplifting and create positivity in the community.

In 1999, the Ponsonby Community Centre was hit by an arsonist (unsubstantiated legend has it, with a pipe bomb through a window!). It meant a lengthy temporary closure and relocation of the preschool and hirer activities. I wasn’t working here at the time but I can imagine the community felt the loss keenly.

The front of the building, which included the former CAB office (first Citizens Advice Bureau in New Zealand), the centre office, toilets and foyer were all destroyed. The interiors of the original school halls were also destroyed, but much of the kauri framing survived, albeit singed.

However, when it opened again in 2000 the refurbished and expanded entrance foyer and extra toilets and venue hire rooms gave the centre and the community, a new lease of life.

The plans and ideas I have seen for the refurbished and repurposed Leys Institute buildings are amazing. It's going to be a fabulous asset for Ponsonby and an inspiring ‘new lease of life’ to our post-Covid community. Something for us all to look forward to! (Lisa

Rogers, Manager)

PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE AND PONSY KIDS

PRESCHOOL, 20 Ponsonby Terrace, T: 09 378 1752, www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz

LOCAL HOSPITALITY: CELEBRATING SIX OF THE BEST

Often called the single best destination for dining in the whole of Tāmaki Makaurau, in Ponsonby we really are spoiled for choice when it comes to top notch eateries catering to all tastes and budgets. With that in mind, we’d like to celebrate some of the Ponsonby News team’s favourite hot spots, which unsurprisingly, are almost all on Ponsonby Road.

Daphne’s Taverna

71 Ponsonby Road

Opening just two years ago and consistently packed with diners ever since, delightful Daphnes Taverna was a firm favourite with locals from the moment it first placed its bistrostyle tables on Ponsonby Road and welcomed us in.

The most recent labour of love from hospitality superstars, Clare and Joost van den Berg - the well-known restaurateurs behind Odette’s Eatery and Hugo’s Bistro (which they sold in 2019) – Daphnes was inspired by a blissful four months the pair and their young family spent travelling around Greece in pre-pandemic times.

They returned with a renewed love for the country’s culture and cuisine, and set about filling a gap in the local culinary offering for a modern Greek menu inspired by family-style sensibility. The menu of small, mid-sized and larger sharing plates spans everything from light snacks and nibbles to more substantial dishes, and their cocktails have to be tasted to be believed! The menu changes seasonally too, so rest assured that return trips to Daphnes are never a chore. www.daphnes.co.nz

Daphne’s Taverna, 71 Ponsonby Road

Orphans Kitchen 118 Ponsonby Road

The cool kid on the block when it first arrived on Ponsonby Road almost ten years ago, Orphans Kitchen is now a local institution for so many reasons.

Billing itself as “a partnership between two friends”, the sustainability-focused, always exciting dining destination is the work of Tom Hishon, Executive Chef, and Josh Helm, Manager, also the talented pair behind the incredibly popular Daily Bread and Kingi, in Hotel Britomart.

Their manifesto is a winning one, touching on things like “practically expressing the qualities of purity, simplicity and

Little Bird Kitchen Corner of Summer Street and Ponsonby Road

A long-time favourite amongst the Ponsonby News team, Little Bird Kitchen is the creation of partners Megan May and Jeremy Bennett.

Megan is the chef and creator of the Little Bird flavour and Jeremy, an award-winning architect and designer, is the brains behind the branding. The pair aim to deliver “the best, most healthy, nutritious, freshest, unrefined, nonpasturised, non-pressurised, non-heat treated, pure, delicious

sustainability that we would like to see associated with New Zealand’s food culture”, working with regional produce that is cultivated with care, high in nutrients and holds the unique terroir of its area, and continuing to invent, challenge convention and produce the best dining experiences. The fact that they manage to do the above and more, all within the confines of an all-day brunch menu is seriously impressive, and in addition, their coffee is amongst the best on the strip. www.orphanskitchen.co.nz

wholefoods” from their chic but always-welcoming location, and the ever-changing menu is testament to how clever one can get with plants!

At Little Bird, the team believes food should not only taste amazing, but it should make you feel amazing too. And judging by the streams of regulars filling the café seven days a week, that feeling is most definitely infectious. www.littlebirdorganics.co.nz

SPQR

150 Ponsonby Road

Proudly “serving the people” since 1992, Ponsonby Road would be a much quieter place without the iconic SPQR. Open all year round for long lunches, decadent dinners, a sumptuous snack or drinks, SPQR has become more than just a dining destination for so many locals over the years. It’s a meeting place, and just gets better with age.

Whether you choose to sit outside with a crisp white tablecloth in summer, or just inside the front door in the portico when the weather cools, you can always guarantee a good time will be had and yes, chances are high you’ll see someone you know wandering past and invite them to join you for a glass or two. A true local icon, SPQR bills itself as a “place for everyone, where all are welcome”, and we couldn’t agree more.

www.spqrnz.co.nz (HELENE RAVLICH)

Sidart

283 Ponsonby Road

Created by modern New Zealand culinary icon, Sid Sahrawat and his wife Chand, the divine Sidart is now helmed by Lesley Chandra, owner and executive chef.

Sid and Lesley had closely worked together for many years, beginning in 2014 when chef Ben Bayly recommended Lesley to Sid, who was looking for a head chef to help develop the menu and run the kitchen at his then-new restaurant, Cassia. By 2017 he was working in a research and development role created especially for him at Sidart, then in September 2018, when the Sahrawats acquired Sid at The French Café, they appointed Lesley as head chef there. When it became time for him to branch out into a restaurant of his own, Sidart became available and was the perfect choice.

While Sidart had come to be known as an “Indian fine dining” restaurant, its new ownership under Lesley seeks to steer Sidart in a new direction. He and his team now focus on

local and seasonal produce native to both New Zealand and the wider Pacific region, reflecting flavours Lesley grew up around in both Fiji and New Zealand. It’s a winning formula. www.sidart.co.nz

photography: Alex McVinnie Photography

photography: Alex McVinnie Photography

photography: Babiche Martens

Another regular haunt of the Ponsonby News team, KOL (pronounced ‘coal’ and inspired by the same word) is the work of Chand and Sid Sahrawat, the same masterminds who created Cassia and Sid at the French Café.

With a focus on fire, food and cocktails, KOL is essentially a fun and casual cocktail bar and Indian-inspired eatery, where you might come for a bite of tandoori and some of their legendary vindaloo fries, and end up staying for a drink or two; the list of innovative cocktails designed to beautifully complement the food.

Housed in the iconic villa that occupies the corner of Ponsonby Road and Hepburn Street, the menu is influenced by Indian flavours but also proves that delicious Indian food is more than just a perfectly executed curry. The food is cooked primarily over fire, paying homage to a traditional style of Indian cooking using a chula (a mud or clay stove). Cooking on fire gives the cuisine a truly addictive, smoky flavour, and we defy you to keep walking by when the smells from the kitchen start filling the air and drifting across Western Park! www.kolauckland.co.nz

photography: Babiche Martens

photography: Josh Griggs KOL

23 Ponsonby Road

PONSONBY'S RESTAURANT FESTIVAL

4 – 28 MAY 2023

Ponsonby's month-long restaurant & bar festival is back this May. Over sixty Ponsonby eateries and bars vie for your foodie heart with their standout dishes & drinks across three fixed-price categories: $30 & UNDER | $30 TO $50 | $50 & OVER

Photo: KOL

THAIGER - SUCCEEDING AGAINST ALL ODDS

After an extremely difficult first 6 months, it's great to hear that Thaiger has been able to overcome the challenges and are now hitting their stride.

Paul and Pim tell us, “We opened at probably the worst possible time during the 2022 Covid wave that brought with it chronic staff shortages, supply issues, inflation and shipping delays. Nevertheless, we persevered and focused on solutions to the many challenges, mostly because we had no choice - it was either deal with it or give up and that was something we could not contemplate.”

Paul and Pim were also able to move past the initial stages of relying on family, friends and even neighbours, to help out with waiting tables, washing dishes and cleaning. They were able to do this by becoming employer accredited under the recent New Zealand immigration work visa program and brought in five staff from Thailand - two chefs with 5-star hotel experience, and three excellent front-ofhouse staff.

This meant that Paul and Pim could move from a simple, easy to execute menu to one that is inline with what they intended and that is creating beautiful 5 star quality dishes. This has resulted in a substantial uptick in customers in recent months

and especially pleasing is that most of the returning customers are local.

“Support from the local community has been overwhelming and humbling. We are so grateful to be a part of the Grey Lynn community and we are delighted to be building a strong relationship with the local community and able to deliver a high-quality dining experience with great customer service,” says Paul. That’s why he and Pim are always thinking of ways to improve the restaurant. They are working with an interior designer who has worked with several successful Ponsonby restaurants and are adding more layers to the décor, creating a more inviting and memorable space that combines comfort along with a nostalgic aesthetic that showcases Thai culture.

Paul and Pim have proven, that with dedication, hard work and creativity, you can build a strong foundation for continued growth and success. Come on in and experience all the delights of Thai cuisine at Thaiger!

Best of luck to the team at Thaiger restaurant.

THAIGER, 2 Surrey Crescent, T: 09 360 0695, www.thaiger.co.nz

FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

Cocoa farmer, Floris Niu, is a new face at Grey Lynn Farmers Market.

Where is your farm?

Ms Sunshine Organic Farms is in Samoa where our family has approximately 70 acres of ancestral or customary land in Tuana’i Village near the capital Apia. Our village has been growing cocoa there for four generations - over a hundred years.

How did cocoa come to be grown in Samoa?

There are two stories. One is that in the 1880s the Germans brought cocoa and coffee to grow alongside the coconut plantations but I prefer the story told by my great grandfather that the koko pods were brought to Samoa by way of Peru, along our ancient migration route by our sea-faring ancestors.

Tell me about your farming practice.

We farm using traditional practices that go beyond organic farming. It is about listening to the land to work in harmony with it. We accept that this means we reduce the quantity of our harvest but boost the quality of the beans. Multi-cropping, natural fertilization and composting and following the moon cycles are some of the traditional methods we use on our farm.

What are you growing on your farm?

Cocoa and coffee are our main crops, but we grow a wide range of foods including taro, manioka (cassava), yam, breadfruit, and kumara. We also grow jackfruit, dragon fruit, papaya, pineapple, bananas, moringa, and other medicinal herbs. It’s biodiverse so we are assured of a crop for every season of the year.

What is the difference between cocoa and cacao?

Marketing! There are just different words used for the same plant – cocoa, cacao, or koko is what we call it in Samoa.

What happens to the beans after the pods are harvested?

We keep it simple. The beans are scooped out of their fleshy pods and fermented for 7 days to bring out flavour and unlock nutrients. Then the beans are sun-dried for another 7 days before we lightly roast them to make chocolate snacks, cocoa paste/block, nibs, tea, and candy. Not all our products are available in Aotearoa yet, but we are a main supplier of sundried and roasted beans here.

Is that what you bring to the market?

We sell the beans for people to use in cooking and we also make diabetic-friendly chocolate-coated cocoa beans as a treat. This is sold under our new brand, Koko Beans.

How are the beans different from the cocoa powder people usually buy?

Most commercial cocoa powder has had the cocoa butter and cocoa solids removed. Our beans are complete so they

are more tasty and more nutritious. In Samoa, we love to grind them to a paste and simmer in hot water to create a delicious drink to start our day, and ours is famous for Koko Samoa.

You grew up in Auckland, how did you end up farming in Samoa?

Yes – I was born in Samoa but I went to school and university here. I worked in professional roles and ran a recruitment consultancy until ill-health and the trauma caused by domestic violence stopped me in my tracks. When I returned to Samoa and immersed myself in the land, growing cocoa gave me a sense of purpose. I felt the warmth of my ancestors embracing me, giving me a sense of belonging and healing. As my connection with the land and the community deepened, I developed my planet-conscious philosophy and learnt that growing people is an important driver for me.

You have deep networks across the Pacific. Yes – We need to work together to support each other, particularly to support women who have always worked the land but haven’t always been recognised. I’m a founding member of the Samoa Koko Industry Association (SKIA) and I'm the co-founder of Samoa Women’s Association of Growers (SWAG). I’m also on the board for POETCom Women's Chapter which sits under the international body - Pacific Organic & Ethical Trade Community (POETCom).

Ms Sunshine Organic Farms is also a charitable trust in Samoa and we currently work with Fairtrade Australia and New Zealand on certification for our group of cocoa growers. Somewhere in between the farming and community support work, my work as an international cocoa consultant helps me to pay the bills. I've worked on projects supported by MFAT, DFAT, and UNDESA.

With all that going on, do you get much time to relax? Not a lot - but I live in paradise where other people come for holidays. In fact, we have an agri-tourism side to our business - people stay with us as part of their holidays. And I love to dabble in the kitchen experimenting with new ways to use cocoa. Recently I made a cocoa and jackfruit wine – it is surprisingly good.

If you live in Samoa, how often will you be able to get to the market?

I won’t be there too often but one of my helpers is aiming to be there fortnightly. And I’ll pop in when I’m back in Auckland.

Instagram: @kokobeansltd or @mssunshinefarms

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GreyLynnFarmersMarket www.greylynnfarmersmarket.co.nz

KOL: INDIAN STREET FOOD AND INNOVATIVE COCKTAILS

Ponsonby Road newcomer KOL is fast becoming famous for its contemporary take on Indian street food and innovative cocktails.

Located at 29 Ponsonby Road in the iconic villa on the corner of Hepburn Street, KOL is open Wednesday to Sunday for dinner and Friday to Sunday from midday till late.

This May, during Eat, Drink, Love Ponsonby – Ponsonby’s restaurant festival, (4-28 May), KOL is offering a very special three course lunch (Fridays to Sundays) for $55. That menu includes a smoked fish tostada starter, either tandoori grilled chicken saffron with burnt onion raita, or tender spiced lamb ribs with date puree for the main, and something deliciously sweet for dessert.

Also on the menu and competing in this year’s Great New Zealand Toastie Takeover – national toasted sandwich competition – is the Eel-legal Toastie. Made with smoked eel mixed with fennel, capers, McClure's Pickles and Evansdale Tania smoked cheese on white bread toasted over the fire in an Indian jaffle maker, head chef Vicky Shah says the entry pays homage to the traditional tuna cheese melt which is so popular with Kiwis.

Happy Hour

Head to KOL for happy hour on Fridays and Saturdays from 3 to 5 pm and all-day Sundays. Bar manager Mangesh Shah and the team are constantly innovating with eclectic cocktails made with local, seasonal ingredients. Try the $15 cocktail of the week, aperol spritz and margaritas. Also on the menu, house beer, rosé, champagne. Walk-ins are welcome with a bar menu available between 3 pm to 5 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays – try the popular vindaloo fries aioli, masala coated macadamias or oysters with green chilli mignonette.

Private Dining and Events

KOL’s private dining room is an ideal intimate space for a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends, family or colleagues, and is suited for groups of nine to 20. Located upstairs on level

three of the iconic villa, the room itself has an abundance of natural light and is carpeted for acoustics and comfort. Groups of eight or fewer may order from the a la carte menu while groups of nine to 20 are provided with a set menu ($85pp for 11 dishes – sharing style) which changes with the seasons and is available to view at kolauckland.co.nz. A minimum spend applies to the room and most dietary requirements are catered to.

Bookings essential. For more info see www.kolauckland.co.nz/events

photography: Josh Griggs

photography: Josh Griggs

MOTHER’S DAY MENU AND MORE AT SIDART

There’s a lot happening at fine dining institution Sidart this May (and beyond) with the popular Eat Drink Love Ponsonby annual foodie festival taking place between 4-28 May.

On offer, something a little special to start the evening, whether dining at Sidart or enjoying an evening along Ponsonby Road. For $75 you and a friend can take a seat at the bar in the restaurant’s private dining room and enjoy two signature cocktails and a selection of canapés.

On Sunday 14 May Sidart will open for a very special Mother’s Day four-course lunch with snacks on arrival for $150. Bookings are essential and the menu can be viewed online.

On Tuesday 16 May Sidart welcomes Guy McMaster from Palliser Estate for another instalment in the popular Winemaker Series. Diners will enjoy a specially curated multicourse degustation menu expertly paired with stunning wines from Palliser Estate, Martinborough. Each course will be introduced by Executive Chef and Owner, Lesley Chandra, and the Sidart team with wine pairings by Restaurant Manager, Joe Costello, and Palliser Estate Winemaker and Viticulturist, Guy McMaster.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays each week Sidart invites guests to experience 'A Taste of Sidart', a 4-course menu with canapes on arrival for $100pp. The menu will showcase some current and old favourite dishes as well as new and experimental dishes too.

On offer all week is Sidart’s signature ‘The Series’ menu options, all of which use contemporary cooking techniques to create delicate and artfully plated dishes for an elevated dining experience. The Mini Series (9 Parts), Extended Series (12 Parts), and Complete Series (16 Parts) range in price from $160 to $210 per person.

The updated tasting menus include three drinks pairing options, all carefully selected to complement the dishes by Sidart’s Sommelier and Restaurant Manager, Joe Costello. There are local or international options, including wine, sakes and spirits, as well as a rare and unique pairing showcasing a selection of wines from at home and abroad chosen from Sidart's cellar list.

Diners will find a glimpse of Pacific flavours on both the menu and beverage list, in a nod to Chandra’s early childhood in

Fiji. This includes the cocktail list, where you can find A Glass of Kava, a housemade Kava Liqeuer finished with Bollinger Special Cuvee.

The two hatted restaurant is open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday and for lunch on Saturdays. Bookings are essential. Most dietary requirements are catered to, but must be advised at the time of booking.

Full menu and events information can be found on their website.

SIDART, 283 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 2122, www.sidart.co.nz

photography: Alex McVinnie Photography

Lesley Chandra of Sidart

photography: Alex McVinnie Photography

PASTA, PIZZA, PEOPLE – PANE E VINO

This iconic Italian eatery has been serving authentic pasta, great pizza, and incredible Italian desserts since 2008.

The restaurant has enjoyed great success largely due to the incredible hospitality Pane e Vino is well known for and the ever-evolving traditions of Italian regional cuisine inspired from Tito’s hometown of Vieste, Italy. Tito and his talented team are constantly innovating their authentic regionally inspired dishes.

Even in the face of a pandemic, staff shortages and soaring food prices, they have continued to offer delicious meals at affordable prices without comprising quality. They strive to source the best products locally and import ingredients at competitive prices.

They offer a range of homemade fresh pasta and source game meats for their special boards. Their signature dish, the homemade mushroom and Parmesan cheese served in creamy truffle sauce, is one of their most popular dishes, as is the classic beef lasagna.

When asked about Pane e Vino pizzas, Tito says, “Lots of people believe a pizza should be made just one way, cooked

in a wood fire pizza oven, but at Pane e Vino what counts is dough making. The time, the care and proofing of the dough are what we look to the perfection every time.

"Due to the large orders of our pizza on 2019 we opened a successful ‘pizzeria’ in Kingsland and called 'CIAO BELLI' (503 New North Road). Our love for the pizza brought our eateries to make over 1200 standard pizza weekly and over 600 pizza for children which we deliver to our local primary and intermediate schools."

Like many restaurants who have faced adversity during the past couple of years, Tito and his talented team have rolled up their sleeves, moving forward with determination and continued commitment to bring creativity to the dining experience and to offer the best service.

"At Pane e Vino every dinner you have, you get a 20% discount for the next dinner out. We appreciate customers who often come back for more", says Tito.

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

FIVE MINUTES WITH ANERI NATHU, OWNER OF MUMBAIWALA IN PONSONBY

We asked Aneri Nathu to tell us about her background.

“I was born into hospitality. My parents opened the first Indian restaurant in Christchurch. I remember being five years old and on the shop floor trying to serve customers and telling everyone I wanted to have my own restaurant when I grew up.

“After completing two degrees at Victoria University (Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Tourism Management), I moved to Queenstown to manage one of my parents’ restaurants. It was here when I started to realise a new concept of Indian street food could change the culinary scene in New Zealand. My family come from Mumbai and it was important for us to incorporate our culture into an unique dining experience, an experience that gives the full package from the famous Mumbai street delicacies as well as a fitout and ambience that gives the true feeling of the hustle and bustle of the busy Mumbai streets.

“I moved back to Christchurch to open the first Mumbaiwala with my parents seven years ago. After the 2010 earthquake, it was an opportunity for my family to be a part of the Christchurch rebuild as well as bring our concept to life. After doing this for three years, I moved to London for two years to do my OE. It was when I was travelling I realised I wanted to come home and pursue my dream of creating and owning my own restaurant.

“I made the hard decision to sell my house in Queenstown in order to invest in Mumbaiwala, Auckland. I didn’t know what would come out of it but it was the biggest risk I had ever taken, given the time of Covid and opening during the week of Omicron hitting New Zealand.

“Despite the many challenges, it’s been worth it. I’m proud of the fact that one year later my restaurant is everything I imagined it would be - seeing the community come together, people from all walks of life enjoying an unique dining experience.

“I was 28 years old when I opened Mumbaiwala Ponsonby and a lot of people doubted me because of my age and the current environment. However, I look back at the last year with immense gratitude for the unwavering support of my parents, two sisters, my dear friends, advisers, and the community of Ponsonby.”

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

BFT Ponsonby Gym and making sure I get some sort of exercise to start my day. Ultimately, I feel it is the pride and responsibility

of owning my own business that drives me to get out of bed every day. My father always said to me, ‘you only live once so get shit done’.

The restaurant looks incredible - the toilets are often mentioned - who did the interior design?

I developed the concept, which involved balancing the design language of the Christchurch restaurants and seeking a new look for Auckland. I then briefed a designer to do the building consent plans and I project managed the fitout to ensure I got everything I had dreamed of.

What are some of your best dishes - including a vegan dish?

Aucklanders have wide and varied culinary tastes and are spoiled for choice so it’s fantastic to see them enjoying Mumbai street food. Our Dahi Puri, Sali Boti Lamb Curry and Tandoori Lamb Chops are the most popular dishes and the Cauliflower Manchurian is a vegan staple that even meat-eaters love.

How has the response from locals been?

I’m so grateful for the amazing response from Ponsonby residents. We love our regular customers and locals, who are not just coming in to eat, but are coming in for the experience and appreciating it. Mumbaiwala Ponsonby is for everyone - no matter if you’ve just come from yoga, or if you’ve come from corporate. It’s amazing building and connecting with so many different people. It’s also great to have our customers embrace a different and lighter style of eating Indian cuisine – beyond the staple curry and rice- which is what I always envisioned.

The staff are so good. How has the feedback been?

I get immense satisfaction from giving young people an opportunity, so we hired staff with little experience alongside our seasoned team and they’ve all learned from each other. Our head chef has been with us for over 10 years looking after the kitchen, so we know food is consistent, which is key to why our regulars keep coming back!

You look so busy on Saturday nights. Do we need to make a booking or can we simply try our luck as a walk-in?

We are a 150 seat restaurant and we always try our best to leave some tables for walk-ins. So feel free to drop in whenever you want and I’m sure I’ll be able to accommodate even if we are busy.

BEACHSIDE DINING NEVER LOOKED BETTER

TRINITY HILL BY THE GLASS AT DIDA'S

Wine lovers, show your support by drinking Hawke's Bay this month at Dida's.

With many of our Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne winemakers still trying to put their businesses back together post cyclone, you can offer your financial support by purchasing their fine product.

Trinity Hill is an iconic New Zealand winery celebrating over many decades of world-class winemaking in the famed Gimblett Gravels District of Hawke’s Bay.

True to the roots, Trinity Hill has been crafting especially food-friendly wines made from the classic varieties Hawke’s Bay has become internationally recognised for, these being Syrah, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also produce wines from varieties which are rarely planted in New Zealand, such as Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier and Tempranillo.

Trinity Hill Gimblett Gravels wines are all crafted from vineyards within the small, sub-region. Deposited by the rivers, these unique stony soils create wines of character and personality.

WHERE WINE MEETS FOOD –

Dida’s Wine Lounge - 60 Jervois Road. Convivially yours, the Dida's Wine Lounge encourages

leisurely engagements with the comprehensive wine list and the ever-changing, always-innovative food menu.

The small-plates style cuisine and the superb skills of our talented culinary team work hard to pair perfect morsels with the multiple by-the-glass options of local and imported and hard-to-find wines.

Open Tuesday-Saturday 3pm-10pm.  PN

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

BY THE GLASS TRINITY HILL

SYRAH $10 /GLASS | ROSE $14 /GLASS | CHARDONNAY $16 /GLASS

FRENCH KITCHEN, PRIVATE DINING

www.sidatthefrenchcafe.co.nz sidatthefrenchcafe

“Dense, inky Gimblett Gravels Syrah, high-energy wine. Good Value”

BOB CAMPBELL, MW

Available at:

WWW.SQUAWKINGMAGPIE.CO.NZ

- Gusto Italiano -

GUSTO MEANING

‘TASTE AND ENJOYMENT’

When you dine with us, the focus is on freshly prepared classic dishes, featuring an excellent range of pasta, seafood, meats and our pizza classics.

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

OPEN MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

210 SYMONDS STREET T: 09 377 1911

SIDART, Level 1, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz

263 PONSONBY RD, THREE LAMPS, 09 361 1556 www.gustoitaliano.co.nz

PHIL PARKER: FAB WINES FROM NEW ZEALAND, ITALY, AND THE UNITED STATES

Here we go, folks - another jolly bumper edition, featuring some fab wines.

Main Divide North Canterbury Riesling 2020 - $22

Great value medium sweet, classic riesling from North Canterbury. 12.8% alcohol. Soft acids, beeswax, pineapple, poached apple, ripe mandarin and a hint of crème brulée with a little spritz of CO2. Match with seafood or mildly spicy Asian dishes. Available: Fine O Wine, Pt Chev Organic Wines, pegasusbay.com

Bogle Family Vineyards California Chardonnay 2020 - $29

If you’re a fan of buttery, toasty fruit-led chardonnay (as I am), then this one’s for you. It’s my go-to regular chardonnay at home. Aromas of pineapple, toasty vanilla oak and hint of herbs. In the mouth it’s fresh cut ripe pineapple, peach and spice, toast, creamy yeast, toasted hazelnut and a crisp finish. Nice with creamy pasta and chicken dishes. Available: Pt Chev Organic wines, Dhall & Nash, finewinedelivery.co.nz

Bogle Family Vineyards California Chardonnay 2021 - $29

Slightly softer, with almond croissant, creamy and peachy with slight minerality. But very much on point with the house style from Bogle. Food matches as above. Available: Pt Chev Organic wines, Dhall & Nash, finewinedelivery.co.nz

Main Divide North Canterbury Chardonnay 2022 - $22

Definitely on the funky, reductive chardonnay spectrum. Flinty and crisp, with hazelnut, super-ripe grapefruit, peach, nectarine, with a crisp and dry lengthy finish. Food match: a rich, creamy chowder or seafood pasta. Available: blackmarket.co.nz pegasusbay.com

Sartori Amarone Della Valpolicella DOCG 2018 - $64

Honestly, this is one of the best reds, local or imported, that I have sampled in a long time. Reminds me very much of Montepulciano Brunellos that I was lucky enough to sample in Tuscany many years ago. Soft and gorgeous. Supple, and ripe with spiced cherry, dark plum, baba rhum, almond toffee and a hint of tawny port. Buy now. Before I do. Food match –Italian tomato-based pasta. Or by itself.

Available: Dhall & Nash.

Le Macchiole Bolgheri Rosso 2020 - $56

A very different style from the Sartori, this wine is more savoury and assertively tannic – with soy, cigar, liquorice, and earthy, spicy flavours. Match with spicy tomato based vegetarian or beef dishes. Available: Dhall & Nash.

Main Divide North Canterbury Merlot Cabernet 2020 - $22

Not as intense as the Bolgheri Rosso as above, but a bold red blend with a funky, yeasty nose. Dark plum, cherry, liquorice, leather, soy, truffle and a hint of herbal. Match with slow cooked beef bourguignon or rich ratatouille.

Available: pegasusbay.com finewinedelivery.co.nz

Sartori Rerum Recioto Della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2018 (500 ml) - $56

A intense sweet Veronese red traditionally made from grapes left to dry in the sun on racks before pressing and fermentation.

A blend of obscure native Italian grape varieties is used to make this 13.5% alcohol in a ruby port style. Flavours of black cherry, spice muscatel and toasted almond. Food match: Almond cake, desserts and biscotti.

Available: Dhall & Nash. (PHIL PARKER)  PN

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

TASTING AND EVENTS AT GLENGARRY

Glengarry Victoria Park’s tasting room offers a range of non intimidating informative tastings and events - perfect for the enthusiastic novice, an evening out with friends, or dedicated vino lovers.

The line up over the next few months includes a range of tastings for all tastes. We can’t wait to see you at one of these. To book your ticket go to www.glengarry.co.nz/tastings

If a formal tasting is not your thing, we run casual tastings in all stores Thursday, Friday evenings and Saturday. The details and timing around the Ponsonby area for Jervois Road, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Westmere and Victoria can be found here online www.glengarry.co.nz/tastings

Here’s a selection of what’s coming up…

The New Australia

Through May and June we take a new look at Australia at Glengarry. This tasting will explore the white variety Fiano, small batch Grenache and the biodynamic prowess of Gemtree as well as wines from Maverick, another biodynamic producer, this time focusing on premium old vine wines from Barossa. And to round it off, Katnook from Coonawarra, we’ll be looking at their Cabernet from the Founders Block and Estate ranges.

Tuesday 30 May – Victoria Park – 7pm $29 per person

The Wines of Marques de Murrieta from Rioja, Spain For this tasting, we’ll explore seven different vintages of Marques de Murrieta Reserva. The opportunity to try one of these is not to be missed - this many vintages, just sensational! We will also taste the newest vintage of Ygay Gran Reserva, the impressive 2011 vintage. To start the evening you’ll be greeted with a glass of Rose 2021.

Wednesday 21 June – Victoria Park – 7pm $65 per person.

Burgundy 2020 – New Arrivals tasting

In June, our 2020 Burgundy wines will land. To celebrate we’ll hold a tasting that will explore Pommard, Vosne Romanee, Gevrey Chambertin, Puligny Montrachet, Chambolle Musigny and Chablis. Come along and learn all about Burgundy and explore the new 2020 vintage.

Wednesday 5 July – Victoria Park – 7pm. $89 per person. (LIZ WHEADON)  PN

www.glengarry.co.nz/tastings

Tastings & Events

HEALTH QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Stephen Parsons, the owner of The Health Clinic in Grey Lynn, will be answering readers questions, complaints, health concerns and general queries around health. Please feel free to contact us and ask a question, or let us know what you want to read about.

Q: I have chronic insomnia and nothing seems to work. Does acupuncture and Chinese medicine help with this condition?

How common is insomnia?

Insomnia is a worldwide issue and can affect 10-30% of the world’s population at any one time. In saying this, often people think they have ‘insomnia’ but there is potentially a underlying cause such as work/financial stress, depression, anxiety, excess in diet/social activities. Insomnia can be varied in how it presents.

How can we treat insomnia at The Health Clinic?

Generally speaking, a person will sleep 7-8 hours per day, yet when this sleep is interrupted, unhealthy sleeping patterns can develop. At The Health Clinic and utilising the concept of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) we consider triggers, onset, quality of sleep and any noticeable cyclic patterns. TCM can be rather simplistic at times, so the key diagnostic measure we look for are 1) easy to fall asleep, 2) hard to stay asleep, 3) or no sleep at all. Once we develop a typical sleep pattern for a patient then we can diagnose and work on a treatment plan.

How can TCM / Chinese Herbal Medicine treat Insomnia?

Needles (acupuncture) are lovely and very effective in treating insomniac type patients. In TCM, we view the shen (mind) as the main consideration. In TCM the shen descends and settles into the heart at night and is nourished by qi, blood, yin, and as one wakes in the morning the shen then raises and floats back to the head and becomes the conscious mind again. If a person wakes to early, then shen can return to the ‘mind’ early and then we start to see an overthinking type pattern/complaint.

So, when we needle sleep patients, we focus on calming the mind (shen) we nourish qi and blood, we soothe qi as when qi becomes erratic it can scatter the descending of the shen

at night. When we align this with Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) again we focus on nourishing blood and soothing the liver, as in TCM the liver controls all emotions.

Nourishing blood with lovely herbal tonics such as Bai Shao, Suan Zao Ren, are excellent in helping one sleep. We also have the option of using more anchoring herbs to settle the mind without being heavy like a sleeping pill, such as Zopiclone for example, and the added bonus, our herbs are all natural and not synthetically made.

Summary – so insomnia is an everyday worldwide complaint with so many contributing factors, some/most we can’t avoid at times. However there is a solution and through some gentle changes to life and work, increased exercise, mindful of when our last coffee was, closing the laptop and taking time out can all greatly improve one’s sleep pattern.

Sleep is such an essential part of life; we need to love our bodies to help us deal with everything else that is going on.

THE HEALTH CLINIC, 571 Great North Road, T: 09 360 0738, www.thehealthclinic.co.nz E: stephen@thehealthclinic.co.nz

LUSTRE BEAUTY OFFERS TREATMENTS FOR EVERYONE

The Lustre Beauty Clinic, winner of New Zealand Nail Competition for 2021, has been operating since 2017 offering a wide range of treatments for locals.

We asked them to tell us about their business.

“The original name was Nails on Richmond, which had been in Grey Lynn for 10 years. Due to business exaggeration, the business experienced a store expansion midway through and moved from the original store to the current location, at L1, 483 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn.

“Whether you want to get fabulous looking nails, give your eyelashes a bit more oomph, or need to rejuvenate your skin, we’ve got you covered. Our luxurious and spacious location means that we are now able to offer more advanced treatments from our new skin specialist, while still catering to all of your beauty, nail, and massage needs.

“Our most popular item at the moment is a full body massage, as well as a full manicure in Pure Fiji. At the same time, we provide men's skin care, beauty and body items, as well as the use of various coupons, which can be convenient for guests to order our services for themselves and friends.

“We have some specials for Ponsonby News readers:

1. Whole body massage, $109/ hour;

2. Pure Fiji tropical manicure and pedicure care package, $109/ person. With our experienced and knowledgeable staff, you will know you are in good hands throughout all your treatments.

“We are proud to have collected some awards, ‘The winner of New Zealand Nail Artist Competition, The Dermapen World Gold Treatment Provider since 2021, and we are members of the Registered Beauty Professionals.

“We use the following brands: Environ, Jane Iredale, Pure Fiji, Mesoestetic, Lilash and dermapen4.

“Come in for a visit and an experience like no other.”

The clinic is open from 10am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-5pm on Saturday. Closed on Sundays. If you have any questions, please refer to our website, or contact us.

You can also refer to our website for details of the services.

LUSTRE BEAUTY CLINIC, L1, 483 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 1950, www.lustrebeauty.co.nz

SPECIALS JUST

We stock: Environ, Jane Iredale, Pure Fiji, Mesoestetic, Lilash and Dermapen4. Gift vouchers are available

With our experienced and knowledgeable staff, you will know you are in good hands throughout all your treatments.

BALI SENSES COME TO VICTORIA PARK MARKET

Victorian Bali Spa Auckland – a spa which offers a unique and tranquil experience is now open in the heart of Victoria Park Market.

The spa, designed to transport you to another world with its Balinese inspired décor, creates a warm and serene environment for your complete relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa offers a range of treatments from facials, massages, manicures and pedicures using premium quality products such as Pure Fiji.

The professional and friendly staff at Victorian Bali Spa are committed to providing the best possible experience for their clients, making it a must-visit sanctuary for self-care and pampering.

The spa opened right after the cyclone was over – it was perfect timing to unwind right after the big storm passed.

We asked the team to tell us more about their business. Let me introduce myself. My name is Loli. I'm originally from Bali, Indonesia. I'm co-founder and senior massage therapist at Victorian Bali Spa Auckland. I have past experience in spa and wellness for the last 24 years and reached a milestone of more than ten thousand treatments in my whole career. Our approach is to provide health and wellness goals for individuals in Auckland who have past injury, stress management or relaxation holistic goals.

I have worked in many countries and in international spa hotels around the world in Turkey, Indonesia, Bali and New

Zealand. I love providing holistic massage and feel happy seeing people getting better health and fitness with their overall experience from wellness and spa treatments.

I bring a lot of wellness and spa experience - so get in quick!

What are the most popular treatments on offer?

Our most popular treatments are traditional Balinese massage, full body scrubs, deep tissue and facials.

Do you offer facials and massages for men?

Absolutely. Our range of Pure Fiji products are suitable for all skin types and are for everyone.

Do you have gift vouchers available?

Yes we do. Gift vouchers for your loved ones and your family are live on our website; with a single click you can email the vouchers directly to the special people in your life.

Any specials for our readers?

There is always something special for every lovely reader. They get 10% off on membership sign-up with us. Sign-up membership can be done through our website.

Victorian Bali Spa is open everyday from 9am to 7pm Monday to Sunday.

THE ECOSTORY CONTINUES…

For 30 years, ecostore has been inspired by New Zealanders to create products that are safer for you, your family and our world. It’s this innovative spirit that created a pioneer of sustainable retail back in 1993, and is driving the launch of several exciting new ecostore products today.

Innovation: CONCENTRATES

When you’re trying to save the planet, you really have to concentrate. And that’s exactly what ecostore have done with a range of products designed to reduce plastic, minimise carbon emissions and save you money. Concentrated formulations from ecostore are available in their Multi Purpose Cleaner, Bathroom and Shower Cleaner and Glass Cleaner sprays. Their latest innovation in concentrates is 3X Laundry Liquid which delivers a fresh clean load of laundry with just three pumps.

Innovation: TOOTHPASTE TABLETS

Ecostore have designed out plastic, with toothpaste in a tablet form, packaged in an infinitely recyclable and reusable tin. These innovative new toothpaste tablets are formulated to protect teeth, freshen breath and naturally whiten and due to their no-leak format, they’re a take-anywhere option. The only place these handy packs are not designed to go is landfill. To use, simply chew a tablet and then brush as normal.

Innovation: DISHWASHING BAR

Maybe you’ve heard about ecostore’s nourishing Hair Care

Bars, but did you know that you can make dishwashing plastic free too? In fact, one ecostore Dishwashing Bar is the equivalent to two plastic bottles. This plant and mineralbased bar is available in either Lemon Verbena or Grapefruit fragrance. Just rub your brush on the soap and then over your dishes for a sparkling wash that’s as gentle on your hands as it is tough on grime.

Don’t forget the ecostore birthday celebrations!

As a long time local resident, ecostore would love you to join them for two events in May to celebrate their 30th birthday at their shop, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay.

Pamper Day, with Living Nature

Saturday May 13, 10am-2pm

Free hand massages and make-up consultations. Great prizes and lots of freebies to care for mum.

Ecostore Market Day

Saturday May 29, 10am-2pm

Showcasing the fabulous sustainable brands we stock alongside ecostore in our store.

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

SAYING GOODBYE IS HARD -

DON’T

LET IT BE ORDINARY

Having spent the past six years learning how creativity when dealing with death can help us, Jude Mannion believes it can be more than just helpful!

What is it that happens when we release our creativity at a time when we are in the deepest pain? Is that which elevates us and makes the send-off as meaningful and memorable as possible because we give ourselves permission to celebrate, as well as to honour?

Does such celebration mean hosting the farewell outside at twilight with kids and dogs running around fire pits, the sound of a band playing favourite songs, the presence of our loved ones’ favourite cocktails being shared, and with their most loved Mexican food offered by a food truck parked up for the event?

“There are very few rules,” she said.

One expression of such creativity lies in the 16 handmade caskets going up for sale at Ponsonby Popup from 12 May. These were made to raise funds for charity and 50% of the profits are headed towards Hospice New Zealand.

Imagine a casket covered with beautiful Freda Kahlo fabric, or another in the shape of a wooden sculpture like a dinghy. A friend is already using one as a coffee table with an acrylic top; another is using one as a glory box!

These unique coffins are now half priced; come, throw one in the back of your car, and take it home.

We get to say goodbye just once; if we add some creativity when we do say goodbye to loved ones, we can just make such parting something even more special – something we will feel for the rest of our lives.

TIME FOR AN ABOUT-FACE!

About Face is offering a limited-time deal of three-for-two on their innovative skin treatments which provide a safe and natural alternative to injectables and surgery, helping you achieve youthful, healthy, and glowing skin that lasts.

With over 35 years of experience, About Face offers solutions to address a wide range of skin concerns and goals.

Their top two treatments to target the most common skin concerns are Dermapen4 Skin Needling and Clear + Brilliant Laser. Dermapen4 is a cutting-edge skin treatment designed to boost collagen, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, scarring, pigmentation, stretch marks for the face and body, and even reduces acne.

Clear + Brilliant is a gentle laser that refreshes your skin by creating millions of microscopic treatment zones in the upper layers of your skin, resulting in younger-looking, softer, brighter, and more radiant skin.

As we age, our skin's renewal process slows down, and lifestyle habits and pollution take their toll, causing fine lines, wrinkles, and other skin concerns. With Dermapen4 and Clear + Brilliant, you can achieve amazing results in improving the look and health of your skin.

To get started, book a free advanced skin consultation with About Face's high-tech skin experts. They will provide an in-depth customised treatment plan to understand your skin and its needs. Both Dermapen4 and Clear and Brilliant are included in the three-for-two limited offer.

Get ready to achieve complete skin confidence with About Call our

@ ZEBRANO

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

1. Beth Dress by LaLA - $477

2. Cascade Dress by Deeanne Hobbs - $413

3. Spiral Dress by LaLA - $459

4. Frill Top by Jellicoe - $247

5. Detachable Hooded Coat by Ilse Jacobsen - $423

6. Concave Sweatshirt by Deeanne Hobbs - $299

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LISA PRAGER: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Ponsonby, St Mary’s Bay, Grey Lynn and Westmere, once known as the Western Bays, now called Waitematā, has been my home since I was a teenager in the late 1970s when I walked my Huntaway dog round the hood.

The villas in various states of decay were all different colours then, speaking of a shared time and space, made by craftsmen with handsaws and planes. My father, an engineer, taught me how to use those tools in his workshop, so I appreciated the balance, harmony and beauty in the streets. I walked wideeyed past the hippy houses blasting out Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell as sandalwood incense mingled with marijuana in the air. On I went up round the corner past the Tongan Church where the congregation raised the rafters with hymns.

When I left home at 17 years of age, I rented a small workers cottage in Norfolk Street, where famous artists brawled on the front lawn and musicians whiled away afternoons jamming together in front of the open fire. My love for Tamaki runs deep, which explains why I care about how it is governed.

In 2007, just as the global economic crisis hit our shores, my partner and I started Garnet Station in an old Westmere bungalow. It was a cafe come kitchen shop come campaign office as I was running for mayor against John Banks - an eye opening experience! Over the next 17 years the business grew and grew into a 7day/5 nights a week machine, pumping out coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner. The success of the Pizzeria and Tiny Theatre led us to restructure from a café into a sophisticated local bar with a launch date of March 26, 2020, the first day of lockdown.

We never had that big opening party, and like most others the reassessment of life became the main focus, especially as the arts hit a hiatus, staff couldn’t afford accommodation near by, customer habits changed, our parents aged and the price of living sky rocketed. So we changed our business model to suit our changing world.

Us humans know we need to change in order to live with nature and not continue to rail against her, to cover her in

concrete and think we’ve conquered her. There is a strong theme in science that plants have secrets we need to learn, just because they are silent does not mean they are dumb. Living in harmony with nature is something indigenous cultures have more experience doing. I’d just like to see more balance in how our not so super city approaches its problems.

More people than ever before made a submission on the Auckland Annual Plan, the groundswell is happening. People are speaking out more and more, challenging authority. The tolerance for council created congestion is over, but the real challenge is to stop the idiotic ideological works still in the pipeline. With the resignation of Auckland Council CEO Jim Stabback there is a real opportunity for innovative, cooperative, lateral leadership.

Our elected members only have so much say. The true power in our local government lies with the non-elected officers. It is these folk that Mayor Wayne Brown needs to take in hand, demanding change at Auckland Transport, Eke Panuku (the property arm of council) and the Ports to name a few. Despite the media’s attempts to constantly scapegoat the mayor and blame him for most things, I am totally comfortable with the way he has taken command and requested all Council Controlled Organisations listen to the clear voice of the public demanding more imaginative and cost effective solutions.

Currently the energy of change permeates everyone’s existence and it’s frequently not easy. There is a sense of climate change panic, a sense that capitalism is the problem, a troubled air about just how much we all have to change in order to survive and thrive. We can do it, but it requires us all to question our actions and contemplate deeply the meaning and purpose of being here.

(LISA PRAGER, Westmere)  PN

HONOUR MITCHELL:

THE LIFE OF A PROFESSIONAL PRINCESS

There comes a certain point as a teenager when it’s time to get a job. Last year an email was sent to my school drama class advertising a role performing as a "Fairy Princess”.

Dressing up as a princess each weekend? Could this really be true?

I fondly remember magical fairies coming to my birthday parties and - just like that - I had a chance to become one. I applied asap and was lucky enough to get an interview and then a few days later a job offer from Ponsonby's An Enchanted Party.

I found out pretty quickly there was much more to this career than twirling around in a sparkly dress. What I initially saw as an easy way to make money was far more complicated than my naive brain had factored in. A little girl's birthday party is the highlight of her year, something she dreams about on a daily basis. These special celebrations are planned weeks, if not months in advance, and the mother wants everything to work out perfectly. Huge pressure! My excitement rapidly transformed into terror, could I pull this off? Yes - I decided - but I was going to have to give it my all.

As a first step, like any actor, I had to memorise lengthy scripts. These outline all the criteria that need to be covered for a party lasting up to two hours. Initially I was a bit overwhelmed, as there were different scripts for each princess but once I had committed them to memory I became far more confident. Making sure that I am fully up to date with each princess's quirks and traits is an absolute must. Children can be very inquisitive and love to ask questions! I simply cannot afford to let my guard down for a second. Channelling these princesses is like performing for an audience. Thankfully I have grown up on a stage through dance and drama, making this job the right fit for my strengths. I actually enjoying being someone else for a change.

These parties simply cannot function properly without tight organisation; it truly is all in the planning. I start each week by calling the mothers of the "birthday girls" to go

over the strategy for the day, provide reassurance and answer any questions. This is normally quite brief but it’s key for opening communication channels and establishing a connection with the parents (who quite rightly tend to be a tad nervous about their little one's birthday celebration!).

On party day it’s all about picture perfect presentation. Makeup, hairstyle and of course the job wouldn’t be complete without the spectacular costumes (which are definitely my favourite part). Everything needs to be as accurate as possible, replicating the specific princess outfits almost exactly - an elegant blue gown for Cinderella, a pretty pink dress for Sleeping Beauty, a dazzling, sequinned number for Ariel (which comes with a red wig of course) and a gorgeous, shimmery ensemble for my Fairy Blossom character (which is my personal favourite).

As a little girl I used to dream of wearing the iconic Disney princesses' gorgeous ball gowns, so the first time I tried on the costumes my inner child was over the moon! Long swishing skirts, glittering tiaras and special accessories help enchant the party and create believable characters. Though I do get the occasional weird stare from passing strangers (especially at the traffic lights and when I’m walking through the zoo, or Cornwall Park), I have started actually enjoying people's reactions, to seeing a 'real life' princess! And yes, I’m happy to pose for photos with besotted adults!

This has been quite an ambitious first job. Most people seem to start wiping down tables or working at a checkout. Even though I do get a few pangs of stress as I rapidly change costumes and run from party to party, I’m grateful to work in a role that is fun and brings so much joy for little kids.

If you ever happen to see a princess roaming the streets of Auckland, wave and say hello… we always wave back. (HONOUR MITCHELL)  PN

HELP SHAPE THE DRAFT LOCAL BOARD PLAN FOR WAITEMATĀ

Auckland Council’s local board plans are strategic three-year plans that are developed based on community feedback.

Local boards can now make more decisions about services and facilities in their area. However, the cost of living and providing these services has gone up so we need to do things differently, including prioritising spending.

I want to hear your thoughts on the key aspects that will guide the plan's development.

This will help me understand what matters most to you and your community.

There are five key aspects of our local board plans. They are:

Our people: supporting people in our diverse communities.

· Our environment: protecting our natural environment.

· Our community: supporting community participation with our services and infrastructure.

· Our places: supporting our growth, development, transport and accessibility.

· Our economy: supporting our economic development.

Be part of the conversation early before any important decisions are made. Tell me what is important to you within our five areas of focus.

Email me at sarah.trotman@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or give me a call on 021487583, I’m always up for coffee!

LUCY KENNEDY: MAY BOOK REVIEW

So, what happens after you give me feedback?

· We will use your feedback, along with input from the community and existing plans, to create a draft plan for Waitematā Local Board.

· In mid-2023, we will publish the draft local board plan and seek further feedback on any final thoughts you and the community may have to ensure the plan is heading in the right direction.

· By 31 October 2023 we will report back any final changes based on your feedback and notify you when the plan is adopted.

Thanks for working with us to make Waitematā a great place for all. (SARAH TROTMAN, ONZM) Waitematā Local Board Member, sarah.trotman@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

If Cats Disappeared From The World - Genki Kawamura - 18+

“Like love, life is beautiful because it has to end”.

On the first page of this book our narrator tells us that he will soon die. He has a grade four brain tumor. As he is beginning to lose hope, resigning himself to a slow death, the Devil shows up at his doorstep clad in a Hawaiian shirt and board shorts with a pair of sunglasses to top it off. He has a proposition for our narrator: Banish one thing from the world and gain one day of life. He accepts, making a deal with the Devil, and carries out a bizarre week with his pet cat Cabbage by his side as things begin to disappear from the world around him.

Readers follow the nameless main character as he reconnects with friends, family, and his old girlfriend, examining what went wrong in his relationships and trying to enjoy life, despite taking things from the world.

I would say that “If Cats Disappeared From The World” is a refreshing change of pace from heavier reading, so if you have just finished a longer novel, or want to ease yourself back

into the habit of reading, you should absolutely give this a try. It’s a short book, with just 202 pages, and an accessible and enjoyable examination of life and death, regrets, and what we are willing to sacrifice for our own wellbeing.

I can see why this novel has sold over one million copies in Japan, and the style of writing reminds me of the Before the Coffee Gets Cold series written by Toshikazu Kawaguchi. Overall, I found this book to be a cute and enjoyable quick read, and absolutely recommend it.

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

WHY CHOOSE A GIRLS’ SCHOOL?

Single-sex schools deliver strong academic results.

NCEA and Scholarship results show that students in both boys’ and girls’ single-sex schools consistently achieve higher academic results than their peers in a co-ed environment. At Diocesan School for Girls, students also consistently achieve higher than average when compared to the national NCEA results and are a cut above their co-educated peers nationally in decile 10 schools when it comes to achieving NCEA Excellence.

Principal Heather McRae credits single-sex education as one of the key ingredients for our girls’ consistently high academic achievement and says results are in line with statistics from across the Tasman and in the UK. This difference in results does not mean that girls do not learn in co-ed schools; it means that the opportunities that are provided by girls’ schools enable girls to achieve their full potential.

“In a learning environment that is free from gender discrimination, girls achieve greater academic success, are more confident and assertive and are more likely to study science, technology, and mathematics (STEM) subjects and participate in physical education. Post-school, they are more likely to pursue tertiary study and careers in STEM, hold leadership positions and earn higher wages.”

The fact that girls attending girls’ schools are more likely to take advanced mathematics, physics, and chemistry than girls at co-educational schools speaks to the different environment

that exists in girls’ schools. Gender stereotypes are less prevalent, and students are encouraged to take academically challenging, technologies, and physical science subjects to gain entry to tertiary courses and pursue male-dominated but more highly paid careers in STEM fields.

Indeed, academic outcomes are only one measure of a wellrounded education. Girls fill every single leadership position for every activity in every year level of girls’ schools, from the Head Prefect to Heads of House, Council Heads, Tutor Representatives, to the most junior of sports teams. Girls also play all instruments in the orchestra, stage band or jazz band, from the bassoon and tuba to the drums and electric bass guitar. In a girls’ school, girls lead and participate more freely in discussions, they feel empowered to behave more competitively and to take more healthy risks, such as trying new activities.

The most important factor for classroom learning that distinguishes girls’ schools, however, is that there are no boys in the classroom to distract, discourage or overwhelm girls, and nor are teachers trying to teach two groups who have differing needs and interests. Overall, the differences highlight that while girls learn in other schools, girls’ schools provide greater opportunity to enable girls to achieve their potential.

We acknowledge input from the Australian Alliance of Girls Schools and their eBrief Report on the Advantages of Girls’ Schools. www.diocesan.school.nz

Mia

LOGAN GRANGER: MODERNISING GST – AND YOUR BUSINESS

Rules for “Tax invoices” changed on 1 April 2023 – have you?

A dry but important topic - changes modernising GST invoicing rules and record keeping introduced on 1 April 2023. Fair warning was given, with some changes coming into effect on the 30 March 2022, along with IRD advertising and commentary over the last year reminding businesses to prepare.

The changes provide businesses greater flexibility while supporting e-invoicing, electronic record keeping and complying with New Zealand’s adoption of the Pan European Public Procurement Online (PEPPOL) framework.

PEPPOL is the government mandate for simplified electronic procurement records domestically and across borders, adopting common digital standards to increase efficiencies and reduce costs.

The changes are to make transacting business easier and modernise the system – at the outset it can provide additional complexity, let’s clarify things for you.

Businesses currently compliant in their invoicing, remain compliant with the new rules. Don’t be alarmed if you receive invoices with new terminology from suppliers though and it’s worth understanding the changes.

What are the key changes – wording and values?

‘Tax invoices’ become ‘taxable supply information’ (TSI); ‘debit and ‘credit notes’ become ‘supply correction information’, and ‘buyer-created tax invoices’ become ‘buyer created taxable supply information’.

· The current requirement to ‘issue and hold’ a physical tax invoice, debit or credit note have been retained but are now no longer mandatory going forward. The ‘tax invoice’ provisions are extended allowing provision of information relating to TSI or amendments to the supply (supply correction information). A table summarises the current tax invoice and future TSI requirements below.

The requirement to hold a ‘tax invoice’ to claim a GST deduction, is replaced by a requirement to ‘hold’ business records showing that GST has been borne on the supply.

The requirement to hold records of specified information in relation to taxable supplies is extended to both suppliers and customers.

The low-value threshold increases from $50 to $200, where only limited taxable supply information is needed.

Changes to buyer-created tax invoices (buyer-created taxable supply information), IRD approval to issue them is no longer required, replaced by an agreement in writing between the parties to evidence the use of self-billing.

A valid tax invoice formally required the words 'tax invoice' in a prominent place, however you are no longer required to include the 'tax invoice' wording when providing TSI. There is no need to change your current wording under the new rules to reflect new terms. Businesses can continue to provide TSI in a single document such as a 'tax invoice'.

The TSI required to be provided or be kept depends on the value and type of supply (sale).

The TSI bands are;

1. $200 or less

2. More than $200 and up to $1,000

3. More than $1,000

4. Imported goods & services

5. Second hand goods or services

Further information about what is needed at each band is online at IRD under ''Taxable supply information (currently called tax invoices)'. The table below will help you visualise the changes.

Are your systems ready?

The changes can have wide ranging effects on your systems and are often not discovered until they are an issue. Ensure your systems can send/receive TSI in non-standard formats and store the new information requirements.

Ensure you or your finance team are trained on the new taxable supply requirements.

Review your internal policies & procedures.

Update instructions, notes, frequently asked questions, together with your general terms of trade to ensure consistency with the changes.

Best of luck implementing the new rules. If you would like to contact us to assist you or discuss any queries you may have about the changes, please reach out.

Disclaimer – While all care has been taken, 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.

DISCOVER WHY JOHN AND MARGARET LOVE EDEN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

It was John and Margaret’s daughter who suggested they look at Eden Village.

“We never thought we would move into a retirement village,” says John, but when they first saw their brand new apartment, they knew it was the one. “The sun was shining, it was beautiful. Our daughter said, ‘Look, you just couldn’t turn this apartment down.’”

Village size was key for the couple. “We were looking for something boutique,” reflects Margaret. “We liked that it was small and more intimate.” The tasteful décor and design also appealed, “the place is so light, open and airy,” she tells us.

Margaret and John are enjoying their newly found freedom. “Our house was hard to maintain because of stairs, large grounds, and maintenance,” said John. Now, with plenty of activities to join in, and the time to enjoy them, Margaret says, “we’ve never been so busy!”

Looking for boutique retirement living? You’ll feel right at home at Eden Village.

To find out more about Oceania’s Eden Village, give Rachel a call on 0800 333 688.

EDEN RETIREMENT VILLAGE, 28 View Road, Mt Eden, www.oceaniahealthcare.co.nz/location/eden

ADD VALUE TO YOUR APARTMENT

The Apartment Renovation Company has been operating for more than 15 years and over that time they have renovated more than 1200 apartments and homes.

As a family owned and operated business with nearly 20 years of combined renovation experience in the Auckland apartment market, The Apartment Renovation Company is committed to elevating your property, adding value, and increasing the profitability of your investment. Whether you are a private apartment owner or an investor, the team can help. They offer a wide range of packages and services relevant to the needs of apartment owners.

A one-stop-shop for ALL trades and any type of renovation:

· Kitchen and bathroom design and makeovers

· Interior and exterior painting, plumbing, and tiling

· Electrical work - power point change to smart home system and air conditioning installation

· Licenced builders for permitted work

Architects for creation of your plans for submission to council if required

“Our goal is to provide you with workable solutions with a prompt and efficient service so you can get the most from your property.”

THE APARTMENT RENOVATION COMPANY, Peter M: 021 176 4680 www.theapartmentrenovationcompany.co.nz

BLAIR HADDOW: REAL ESTATE MARKET MOMENTUM CONTINUES UNABATED FOR BAYLEYS PONSONBY

Two outstanding property sales in the past month have highlighted that the residential real estate market in the Ponsonby/Herne Bay/Westmere/Grey Lynn locales is still very much in a healthy and active state – with fantastic pricing levels being achieved off the back of extensive marketing campaigns.

The two Grey Lynn sales – both brokered by leading Bayleys Ponsonby salesperson Blair Haddow – showcase that for vendors employing an experienced and proven real estate salesperson, backed by a major real estate agency drawing on tried and tested processes, the opportunity for selling now can deliver excellent results at a time when others may be struggling to operate in the current market dynamics.

From a purely financial perspective, Blair Haddow’s most recent headline case-study was the sale of 20A Westmoreland Street West in Grey Lynn - a stunning warehouse style conversion featuring a main dwelling encompassing a threebedroom/two-bathroom/two living area New York style dwelling. In addition, the property also consists of a separate three-bedroom apartment, and a two-bedroom apartment.

The property was scheduled to go to auction, but an eyewatering pre-auction offer of around $5million was presented to the vendors ahead of the bidding, and was duly accepted. Meanwhile, from an emotional perspective, Blair recalls the background to the sale in April of 26 Farrar Street in Grey Lynn – a recently extended and remodelled north-west facing four- bedroom/two living room character home directly overlooking Grey Lynn Park, with off-street parking.

Extensive marketing of the property saw seven parties in the auction room seeking to make the highly desirable residence their new home. Five parties engaged in the open bidding process, which opened at $3million and eventually sold under the auctioneer’s hammer for $3,877,500.

For Blair Haddow of Bayleys Ponsonby, the experience was particularly heart-warming as he had been working closely with the successful purchasers for a number of months –counselling and guiding the successful couple through several other auctions where they had been outbid at the final hand-raise.

This time though, Blair was able to share their happiness over a glass of champagne after becoming the new owners.

The pair of successful property transactions rounded out another stellar year for Blair Haddow – notching up $70million in sales across his specialist suburbs of Ponsonby/ Herne Bay/St Marys Bay, Freemans Bay/Westmere/Grey Lynn for the just concluded financial year, and taking his alltime career sales for vendors through Bayleys Ponsonby to $600million.

The 2022/23 sales tally once again placed Blair Haddow in Bayleys’ ‘Top Achievers’ category of salespeople nationwide – qualifying him for the agency’s five-star luxury incentive trip to California and Mexico later this year.

However, while the golden carrot of a luxury week-long trip across the Pacific looms later this year, the process of marketing vendors’ properties for sale is a never-ending circuit for Blair Haddow, demanding his immediate attention.

Replenishing Blair’s portfolio of properties on the market for sale right now are two new additions he is proudly showing to potential buyers at open homes and private viewings over the coming weeks.

The first, at 46 Cumberland Avenue in Westmere is a fourbedroom/two-bathroom north-facing transitional period bungalow. The chic single-level designer-styled residence has an incredible open plan living space, with full height bi-fold doors opening out onto the rear deck for entertaining, and further onto the landscaped tiered private lawn and garden.

And secondly coming up for auction through Blair Haddow is an executive four-bedroom/three-bathroom residence at 3A Umere Crescent in Ellerslie which is being auctioned on 17 May. The spacious two-storey dwelling has an inground swimming pool set amongst a compact private back yard, an office and a separate study, and two-car garaging.

(BLAIR HADDOW)  PN

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

26 Farrar Street, Grey Lynn

WILLIAM GREIG: A SPEAKERS’ CORNER FOR PONSONBY?

There’s a lot of talk about freedom of speech and cancel culture these days.

I attended the ‘Posie Parker’ rally in Albert Park on 25 March, where the protesting crowd were so vocal that self-proclaimed women’s activist, Kelly-Jay Keen-Minshull, had to abort her event and later that day flew out of the country in disgust. The majority of the crowd were elated – few wanted to hear her divisive words – words based in part on media reports, in particular those from her disruptive rally in Melbourne some days prior.

But now, in retrospect, I think we were wrong in silencing the self-proclaimed, 'so called Women's Rights activist from the UK'. We should have let her ‘spew her spiel’, even if many of us disagreed with what was expected to fill the air surrounding the rotunda at Albert Park that day. The atmosphere was at times both celebratory and unpleasant, although not as vitriolic as some of the commentary which followed in the days after.

Anyone who has visited London, might have visited the north eastern edge of Hyde Park on a Sunday morning to listen to, be entertained by, agree with, or heckle at, speakers on soap boxes freely expressing whatever views they wishedall this in orderly fashion. One of the best-known locations for public speaking and debate in the world, the premise is simple: anybody can turn up and talk on any subject they like, as long as it is lawful.

It’s a bastion of free speech. But how did it all begin? Speakers’ Corner comes with an impressive history. It is a symbol of democracy, born out of revolution.

In the mid nineteenth century, riots broke out in the northeastern corner of Hyde Park in reaction to the Sunday Trading Bill, which forbade buying and selling on a Sunday – the only day working people had off. The park was used to protest over workers’ rights, while the more radical Reform League stormed the area in 1866, questioning the control of public space in London.

The Times described the people gathering in Hyde Park to exercise their right to speak out as a “motley crowd” who were interfering with “the enjoyments of those to whom the Park more particularly belongs”. Yet others rejoiced. Marble Arch was becoming an epicentre for the voice of the public.

Pressure on the government meant that the Parks Regulation Act of 1872 granted Park Authorities the right to permit public meetings within its boundaries. And so, a tradition was born, accompanied by legislation. This victory for the common man cemented Speakers’ Corner’s place in history.

All this has given rise to an idea for consideration; Does this city need a Speakers Corner?

I look across at Western Park, the area on the corner of Ponsonby Road and Hepburn Street and can imagine a Sunday morning scene like that of Auckland’s version of Hyde Park’s Speakers’ Corner, albeit on a smaller scale of course.

What do you think? Letters to the Editor are encouraged!

(WILLIAM GREIG)  PN

Newport sofa chair in Ash

Newport sofa chair in Ash

Trenail timberside 3 seat sofa

BEAUTY IS IN THE DETAIL

With winter on the way, Lahood® and Luxaflex® have the best and most stylish solutions to insulate your home from the cold.

Duette Shades are the premier brand of ‘honeycomb’ or ‘cellular’ shades. Their design heritage is founded on innovation for today and tomorrow while taking care to celebrate the beauty in the details.

And right now at Lahood, you can benefit from 15% off Luxaflex Duette® Shades, Roller and Sunscreen blinds, including automation.

Durable, elegant, and versatile, Duette Shades provide the ultimate design with maximum functionality.

With more than 40% of total heat loss from a home through uncovered windows, and around ⅓ of winter energy bills attributed to heating the home, why not gain the benefits of insulating blinds in your home this winter.

Available in a variety of colours and textures, you have the freedom to find something that enhances your space. You can choose from blockout, translucent or sheer fabrics, depending on the level of privacy, sun protection and room darkness you desire.

And in addition to their energy efficiency properties, Duette Shades reduce everyday sound energy. Sound energy is absorbed within the cell, dulling exterior noise by up to 55% - truly the quiet achiever.

Adding automation unlocks the ability to operate your blinds via smartphone, voice control or at the press of a button. Our preferred choice is PowerView®, providing greater convenience, energy efficiencies, security and child safety. With three power options to pick from, including batterypowered via AA battery wand, long-life lithium-ion battery pack or simple plugin DC transformer, Duette’s are simple to operate and maintain.

If you want the best advice, service and support available for your window furnishings and home design ideas, then contact Lahood and see what their 40 years of experience means.

From inspiration to installation, Lahood Window Furnishings do it all.

Duette Shades are made of two or more layers of pleated, reinforced fabrics bonded together and joined at the pleats to form compartments of trapped air.

With a focus on beauty and durability, the Luxaflex Duettes collection offers a range of fabrics to coordinate with today’s interiors.

Feel at home in the heart

Welcome

In the heart of Mt Eden, you’ll find the perfect place to begin your exciting next chapter.

Eden Village is a tight-knit community where friends chat over a delicious dinner or an evening pinot noir. Where they play all the hits on dance nights and plenty of classics on movie evenings. In fact, everyone has a say in how each day comes to life. Dive into your favourite book in peace in the library, or join in on an evening with friends in the lounge.

Of course, we all need a breath of fresh air. Fortunately, there are plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants just a stroll away, including walking trails to hear the birds sing. A drive into town also opens up the bustling waterfront – the perfect spot for a bite to eat and a sparkling view.

Our spacious apartments come in a range of sizes to suit your needs. Look forward to a designer kitchen, open-plan layout, stylish fittings, and an enclosable balcony.

Queen

Was $4,745, Sale Price $3,416

4 DOF Wingen glasses in stock to match. Was $585 each, Sale Price $421 each.

45.7

Was $10,995, Sale Price $7,916

- Was $1,175, Sale Price $846

Super King Bed set - Was $$1,295, Sale Price $932

Queen Duvet cover - Was $975, Sale Price $702

King Duvet cover - Was $1,075, Sale Price $774

1.

1. Lamartine Armchair by JNL, Belgium - stock chair with stainless legs and grey/charcoal fabric. Was $19,295, Sale Price $7,500

2. Luc Objet by Aerin, New York - White marble with brass base. 14cm x 12.2cm x 24.2cm high. Was $2,750, Sale Price $1,485

3. Wingen decanter by Lalique, France - Clear CrystalH 25cm x 12.5cm diam.

4. Magritte Table Lamp designed by Barbara Barry for Baker Furniture, USA -

x 45.7 x 66cmH. One available.

2.

5. Luke Frames by Ralph Lauren Home, Silver plated brass 5x7” - Was $725, Sale Price $522 8x10” - Was $955, Sale Price $688

6. Frette classic bed linen from Italy. Classic Hotel Collection

Bed set

7. Diner armchair by Baxter, Italy - W85, D87 H59cm Designed by Piero Lissoni, Armchair in stock is in Donkey coloured leather. Was $19,995, Sale Price $6,995

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

COOL READS FOR COOLER EVENINGS

Superb New Zealand books selected by Carole Beu from The Women’s Bookshop.

KIND - Stephanie Johnson $37

From our local Ponsonby author, another clever and entertaining novel about lockdowns, survivalists and being kind. Stephanie’s wicked humour skewers New Zealand society, including MPs, and is thought-provoking as well as funny.

Laughing at the Dark - Barbara Else $40

A delightful, heart-warming memoir from a wonderful New Zealand author of plays, novels, and children’s books. Told with lively honesty and the wisdom of experience, it's upbeat, funny, and a great lesson in how not to be a ‘good girl’!

How to Get Fired - Evana Belich $37

A stunning collection of short stories that are linked in clever and subtle ways. Written with ‘insider knowledge’ by a New Zealand author with degrees in law and dispute management, these wry, astute stories explore the nuances of workplace relationships and complexities.

Butter, Butter - Petra Galler $50

Sometimes more is more! This gorgeous book is full of rich, decadent recipes, with European influences, from the pastry chef at Peter Gordon’s Auckland restaurant Homeland. These exotic flavours can be easily achieved by the home baker. Yum!

Make Love Work - Nic Beets $37

This practical guide to relationship success is written by a clinical psychologist and family therapist who has more than three decades of experience in relationship work. Practical strategies help you cope with intimacy, money, parenting, miscommunication, setting boundaries... positive and insightful.

Mumapalooza: A Celebration of Mums

- Sarina Dickson & Ant Sang $20

For ‘Treasured mums, queen mums, and all the in-between mums’ this vibrant, fun, rhyming picture book is a total delight! ‘A sleepy mum, a busy mum, a getting in a tizzy mum; A loud mum, a tall mum, a ’you drive me up the wall’ mum! A joyous gift for Mothers Day.

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

POP UP GALLERY MERGE CELEBRATES DIVERSITY WITH THREE ARTISTS FROM THREE DIFFERENT CULTURES

Ponsonby - A new pop-up gallery is set to open in the heart of Auckland showcasing the works of three talented artists from three distinct cultures.

This exciting event celebrates the diversity of the local community and is part of the Auckland Festival of Photography.

The gallery will feature the work of Steph Nierstenhoefer (OOAK), Dina Nicolaides (Konstant Imagery) and Roberta Queiroga each of whom brings a unique perspective to their art. Steph is a German multi-disciplinary artist and photographer who draws inspiration from her own street photography and converts her original images into illustrations. Dina is an Australian-Greek photographer who explores the beauty of the natural world through her work. Roberta is a Brazilian visual artist who works in a symbiosis with the canvas allowing for her emotion to spontaneously flow with minimum interference when creating.

Coming together in New Zealand, these three artists represent an exciting array of contemporary art from around the world. Their works will be displayed in a dynamic and engaging environment that encourages visitors to interact with the art and explore the different perspectives on offer.

"We are thrilled to be showcasing our work in this pop-up gallery as MERGE. Each one of us brings a unique vision to our art, and we are excited to see how our works will interact with each other and with our visitors."

The pop-up gallery will be open for one week starting from 5 June to 11 June and will be located at Shop 4, Ponsonby Central, 136 Ponsonby Road. Admission is free, and visitors will have the opportunity to meet the artists at the Vernissage on Friday 9 June from 6pm.

Our arts are merged together to express our different cultures. Kua hanumi a mātou toi, ki te whakaputa te rereke i o mātou ahurea.

For more information, please contact Roberta at hello@robertaqueiroga.com

Roberta Queiroga - SYNERGY

OOAK

Dina Nicolaides

250 GALLERY IS A POP-UP GALLERY FEATURING THE WORKS OF TINA FRANTZEN

Tina has successfully exhibited at Railway Street Gallery for several years and continues to do so as a member of the gallery’s collective.

Many of her works are in private art collections including that of James Wallace; in 2015 she was a finalist in the Wallace Art Awards.

250 Gallery provides the opportunity to show a retrospective of all of her varied works, which include paintings, photography, abstract works and books of her paintings and photography.

The gallery also exhibits the works of an invited guest artist. The current guest artist is Kate Hill who is showing a selection of earlier works including some inspired by burnt archives.

In wanting to make her gallery a community friendly space, Tina has offered it as a venue for Auckland Playback Theatre group, who perform monthly on a Friday night at 7pm. Check the notice in the window or their Facebook page (Auckland Playback Theatre). Gold coin koha.

Tina has also been conducting fun art sessions on the second Wednesday of every month. Just letting everyone know that the space has been used for dinner parties and events.

For more details about these please contact Tina: tinafrantzen@gmail.co.nz

250 GALLERY, 250 Ponsonby Road, T: 0274 519 662, www.tinafrantzen.com Instagram: tinafrantzenartist and: two.fiftygallery

@ BERGMAN GALLERY

The Printed Hibiscus

Tabatha Forbes is a New Zealand visual artist. After living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands for 7 years, Tabatha is now based in Taranaki, New Zealand. The Printed Hibiscus is an exploration into botanical study and floral fabric history, with a focus on the stylised hibiscus as it has come to represent / misrepresent the South Pacific. The Printed Hibiscus, by Tabatha Forbes, runs 19 April – 13 May, then followed by Winter Group Show in Bergman Gallery, Auckland.

In the face of adversity; TAUTAHI

Opening Wednesday 19 April, 5-7pm

All welcome

Second solo exhibition of Benjamin Work in Rarotonga. Facial recognition has been used throughout history, not only as a form of cultural expression, but also as a means of identifying individuals. The use of painted faces and intricate designs, such as kupesi (pattern) in Tongan warfare shows how important it was to be able to identify friend from foe quickly. In the face of adversity; TAUTAHI runs May 9 – May 30 in Bergman Gallery, Rarotonga.

Instagram and Facebook @bergmangallery

BERGMAN GALLERY, 3/582 Karangahape Road (Entrance via 2 Newton Road), T: 021 324 984

E: benny@bergmangallery.com Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 11am-4pm, www.bergmangallery.com

Tabatha Forbes, Yellow / Heaven, Screenprint, ink on cotton rag, 500 x 355mm, ed/10 + AP, 2023

Benjamin Work, Matoto, Acrylic on canvas 820 x 810mm, 2023

Tabatha Forbes, Fearful Symmetry, LED Hot pink tiger light on acrylic, 700 x 720mm, 2023

JAZZ WITH ST MATTHEW’S CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

@ ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY

Sunday 21 May 2.30 pm – ‘Rhapsody in Blue’.

Soloist: Daniel Hayles - Conductor: Justus Rozemond. Gershwin, Ellington, and Weill - Come groove with us…

Daniel Hayles is a jazz and groove-centric musician from New Plymouth, and holds a post-graduate diploma in jazz piano (PGDipMus) from the New Zealand School Of Music. When he is not playing at one of the many live music spots in Wellington City, Daniel writes and arranges music for local and international shows, visiting artists and bands, such as the Rodger Fox Big Band, Orchestra Wellington and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Daniel's first album, ‘Eldest Of Five’, was released in September 2019, and his second album ‘Other Futures’ was released on 4 March last year. Daniel currently performs with such wide-ranging and prominent acts as Lord Echo and Hollie Smith.

Guest conductor Justus Rozemond appears with St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra for the third time.

St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra has a huge following and is acclaimed on the New Zealand concert scene.

TICKETS Eventfinda or Door sales. EFTPOS or Cash. Adults $30, Concessions $25, Children under 12 free, Student Rush on the day $15.

The

ST

Sun 21 May at 2.30pm

PROGRAMME

Weill Little Threepenny Music

Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue Gershwin Three Preludes Ellington The River

sure to check out www.coverttheatre.com

SOLOIST Daniel Hayles CONDUCTOR Justus Rozemond

ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY Cnr of Wellesley & Hobson Street, Auckland City

St Matthews - Daniel Hayles

Covert Theatre in Mackelvie Street, Ponsonby is NZ’s homeofimprovisedcomedy. With workshops and shows every night of the week there is something for everyone.

UPTOWN ART SCENE

This year marks a watershed for printmaking in this country, with one of our largest art awards appraising print and paint separately.

The New Zealand Painting and Printmaking Award is in its 22nd year, and in the past has bestowed a $20,000 Award on whichever artwork, print or paint, the judge has deemed most worthy. With the Waikato Society of Arts managing to raise increased funds, the decision was made to split the Award into separate Printmaking and Painting Awards, each of $15,000 alongside Merit Awards of $2,000. This positions the NZPPA as the largest award for printmaking nationwide, while retaining its significance as a major painting prize too.

To collate an exhibition of 60 finalists from over 400 entries, and to select the four prize recipients were judges Dr Carole Shepheard and Evan Woodruffe. Carole Shepheard is a fierce advocate for printmaking in New Zealand, and splitting the Award is the fruition of a decade of her pushing for better equity. Both Carole and Evan quickly decided to choose equal numbers of printmakers and paintings for the finalists, along with one major award recipient and one Merit for each.

The show really mixed up the aesthetics of both, with one painter mimicking the Ben-Day dots of screen-printing, and one printmaker using stretched canvas as their ground. Printmaking is usually relatively small, limited by the size of the

press, and editioned, yet here most prints were unique and the largest work was by a printmaker, and the smallest by a painter.

While the Main Award for Printmaking went to Taranakibased artist Jenny Halli, the other three came back to Tamaki Makaurau Auckland, and surprisingly all three are connected to the AUT School of Visual Arts.

The Merit Award for Printmaking was given to Struan Hamilton, Senior Technician at the AUT Printmaking studios. Recent Masters Graduate and now tutor there, Tony Guo received the Main Award for Painting, with Masters alumni Cora-Allan Lafaiki-Twiss taking the Merit.

EVAN WOODRUFFE, Studio Art Supplies

www.studioart.co.nz

Nontopia by Merit winner Struan Hamilton

Tilt by Tony Guo, chosen for the NZPPA Painting Award

NZPPA judge Evan Woodruffe with Merit winner Cora-Allan Tafaiki-Twiss

AUCKLAND’S LARGEST ART SALES EVENT OF THE YEAR, THE AUCKLAND ART SHOW IS BACK

At The Cloud 18 - 21 May 2023

This art show is a visual extravaganza that showcases a diverse selection of contemporary artwork: sculpture, jewellery, painting, photography, glass, ceramics, and wall art by established and emergent New Zealand artists from Auckland and all over Aotearoa.

Opening Night commences at 7:30 pm, Thursday 18 May. Art lovers have the exclusive opportunity to preview and purchase art before the show opens to the public. The unveiling of the top ten artworks for voting in the Lawson's Dry Hills Wine People's Choice Award 2023 is a highlight of the evening. The Celebrity Choice award will be presented to a winning artist. Canapes, gorgeous cheese boards, live music, a complimentary glass of Lawson’s Dry Hills wine will all be available at the opening night event. All artwork (with the exception of sculpture) is priced from $20-$10,000, and you can take your art home with you to enjoy.

Show Days are Friday 19 – Sunday 21 May, 10am – 5pm. Meet the artists and get the chance to chat about their arts practice. Get a tip from an expert painter while you watch live art demonstrations. You can try your hand at print making with artist Sally-Ann Davies, sustain yourself at the on-site café and bar, and enjoy a day out browsing an amazing collection of New Zealand art.

On the final Show Day Sunday 21 May, the Liquitex and the Winsor & Newton Artist Awards will be presented to two deserving artists. The vote will also be in for Lawson’s Dry Hills People’s Choice Award, as we find out who has been voted the winner of the 2023 Auckland Art Show.

The Auckland Art Show has “Art for Everyone!”. Don’t miss out on visiting this special art event.

Tickets available www.aucklandartshow.co.nz

The Auckland Art Show Opening Night $37 per person *note this is a pre-sale event. Show Day tickets are $7 each online, $12 at the door. Gold card and student ID discounts apply and children 10 and under are free.

SEFTON RANI:

INDUSTRIAL CAMOUFLAGE (THE CHAOS OF HOPE)

Sefton Rani is set to unveil his latest show in a solo gallery exhibition that promises to be a truly transformative experience.

Born in the Cook Islands, Rani's work delves deep into his dual heritage, exploring the rich tapestry of his connections to both Aotearoa and the Cook Islands – opening up new possibilities in visual language along the way. His dark and brooding pieces carry an air of mystery and contemplation, capturing the essence of his roots, while offering an introspective look into his own journey of selfdiscovery and that of his heritage.

But this isn't a ‘dark’ show. Sefton’s latest works are imbued with a sense of hope; perhaps reflecting his resilience in the face of adversity. The recent floods that devastated his Piha home and studio deeply affected the artist, and this experience is palpable in these new works. From clever ‘steel’ floor plates to large-scale paintings, he transforms this raw emotion into a series of artworks that challenge the viewer to confront their own perceptions and understanding of the world. It’s a truly unforgettable and evocative experience.

In the second gallery, I’m honoured to show work by a real hidden gem of the New Zealand art scene, the late Daphne Mason. A project 18 months in the making, it’s something I’ve been working with Daphne’s family on – to showcase a selection of work from the early 1970s onwards. Some of it is rare and truly astounding.

Opens Saturday 20 May 11am-5pm (drinks 2pm-4pm) and closes 10 June.

All welcome! (SCOTT LAWRIE, Director)

SCOTT LAWRIE GALLERY, Shed 10, The Steelworks, 13 Coles Avenue (off Valley Road) www.scottlawrie.com

Sefton Rani, 'Ture', 2023

Sefton Rani, Caution, 2023

AUCKLAND LIVE CELEBRATES NEW ZEALAND MUSIC MONTH

This May, Auckland Live will be celebrating New Zealand Music Month.

During this much-loved annual celebration of the vibrant music scene in Aotearoa, Auckland Live’s venues will be humming along with events right in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau.

Don’t miss five exciting music-themed events happening across the month.

At Quiz Night (Thursday 11 May) join quizmaster Taylor MacGregor from 95BFM’s Freak the Sheep and get ready to flex your New Zealand music knowedge in the classy surrounds of the Wintergarden at The Civic for the great New Zealand music challenge. Gather your mates, hone in on your Kiwi music knowedge and be in to win the ultimate New Zealand Music Month prize pack! There will also be live performances from emerging New Zealand talent: KatieLee Webster, Max Earnshaw and Geoff Ong, who will be debuting his brand new single – ‘Waiting On What To say’. Get amongst!

For all you music historians out there who want to go on a journey through one of Auckland’s most iconic musical venues, the Auckland Town Hall Tours (Sunday 21 May and Saturday 27 May) has you covered. This musical twist on Auckland Live’s fabulous Auckland Town Hall tours is guaranteed to give you the chance to listen to wonderful stories and experiences that have shaped the New Zealand music scene - fun for music lovers, historians and everyone alike!

Looking for something free, fun and framed for the whole family? Then get ready for Pick & Battle (Saturday 27 May)

- an epic performance and workshop led by Projekt team, New Zealand’s premier troupe of wicked street dancers. Here’s the deal, tell us your family’s favourite New Zealand music anthem when you book your FREE ticket, and Projekt team will pick the top 20 songs submitted and, on the day, turn these tunes into a live improvised dance battle. After the show, learn some sweet moves with Projekt team’s mini crew (dancers under 16) supported by Happy Feet one of the coolest street dancers. Come down to the Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall and get your groove on, it’s not to be missed.

On Thursdays – Saturdays (Thursday 4 – Saturday 27 May) come down to Aotea Square and turn the crank lever to open the digital curtain and unlock one of eight Digital Buskers performing virtually on the Auckland Live Digital stage.

You can send emojis or donate to these artists directly through the use of a dedicated webapp; be sure to come down as this is the world premier of a wonderful digital showcase of this experience by DOTDOT. For all you music photography buffs out there, check out FromThePit a specially curated music photography exhibition featuring photos from some of the best music photographers of Aotearoa.

So, whether you are are a music buff, historian, street dance lover, or musical maestro, our venues are the place to be this month!

www.aucklandlive.co.nz

ImageCreditEricaMcQueen

Photography: FromThePit, Sheeps by Nel Barrington

HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS – what your stars hold for May

Aquarius (the Water Carrier)

21 January - 19 February

You might be feeling low because anything financial at the moment appears complicated and overwhelming. It is important that you get things that matter sorted, but don’t stress about it. If you get stuck, there is always someone who will help.

Pisces (the Fishes)

20 February - 20 March

Pretending to be something that you are not can be a dangerous game, especially if you find yourself on the receiving end. Be careful if you start playing games because there is always someone out there who is better at it than you.

Aries (the Ram)

21 March - 20 April

You might feel more sociable and, in the mood, to entertain more this month and this feeling of being generous will spill over into your social circle. Your winter nights will be filled and before you know it those long summer nights will start all over again.

Taurus (the Bull)

21 April - 21 May

Every so often the dreams you have feel like they cross over into the real world. This might be because you wish you were someplace else most of the time. You do need a break. Take it now if you can before you’re forced to.

Gemini (the Twins)

22 May - 21 June

Your inventiveness has been a gift that has served you well over the years but when you want cold hard facts it’s best not to rely on you to much. Prove you can make a decision by basing it on fact not fiction.

Cancer (the Crab)

22 June - 22 July

You’re up and about with a hundred things to do at once, often with the mundane things that you always do. But let’s face it, that’s how you prefer to spend your time, leisurely going about your business rather than forced to stick to a schedule.

Leo (the Lion)

23 July - 21 August

It will do you good to listen when you are told you’re doing a good job. Every month without fail you achieve what you set out to do - you always accomplish your goals. Stop beating yourself up over the trivial stuff and you will enjoy yourself more.

Virgo (the Virgin)

22 August - 23 September

Trying to cope and pushing people away when they are trying to help but are not up to your standard is not the right way to do things. If you feel your efforts up not being productive, it might be you who needs to change expectations.

Libra (the Scales)

24 September - 23 October

Your creative spirit is flowing with energy and you have a physical urge to get a lot done. Try not to mix up the two and as you go about your business you will discover your ability to overcome all obstacles.

Scorpio (the Scorpion)

24 October - 22 November

You might be quite direct in your approach but it could possibly be mistaken for arrogance, although your main focus is to have fun. If you loosen up a little and think about the bigger picture, your friends will be more welcoming.

Sagittarius (the Archer)

23 November - 22 December

It’s okay to indulge the odd fantasy and if you fancy strolling down memory lane that’s fine too. Just make sure whoever you share your memories with is interested in listening in the first place.

Capricorn (the Goat)

23 December - 20 January

You have been quick to point fingers and pass off responsibility lately. Why don’t you hold back and not do or say anything you might regret later this month. Try and relax, and when you establish boundaries both at home and at work you will see your health will improve.