PONSONBY NEWS - NOVEMBER '24

Your diary should make for good reading

Summerset St Johns, Open Weekends in November

Situated right in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, Summerset St Johns takes retirement living to a new level with luxuriously appointed apartments, serviced apartments, care suites, an exquisite village centre with a bar and bistro, enviable resort-style facilities and services, and breathtaking views.

There are a range of independent apartments starting from $1,350,000,* and to make it even easier, you can move in this year with a 25% deposit and then – including two years of no weekly

There’s never been a better time to escape to this luxurious haven. But don’t take our word for it, make our Open Weekends in November

Editor/Publisher: MARTIN LEACH M: 021 771 147 martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Distribution Manager: JAY PLATT M: 021 771 146 jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Advertising Sales: JO BARRETT M: 021 324 510 joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz

Advertising Sales/Ad Designer: MELISSA PAYNTER M: 027 938 4111 melissapaynter@me.com

Operations Manager: GWYNNE DAVENPORT M: 021 150 4095 gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz

Fashion & Beauty Editor: HELENE RAVLICH M: 021 767 133 helene@mshelene.com

Graphic Designer: ARNA MARTIN M: 021 354 984 arna@cocodesign.co.nz

Annual Subscriptions: Within New Zealand $99. By cheque or credit card in NZ$. Please note: we do not hold back issues of Ponsonby News. Our archive is all online as pdfs. Please visit www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

that may occur. PONSONBY NEWS is published monthly, excluding January by: ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED, P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144, T: 09 378 8553, www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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P15

THE LEYS INSTITUTE

Please re open Leys Institute. I would be happy to sign a waiver to utilise the building (in case it collapsed in an earthquake in Auckland).

Walking past this magnificent building daily, it is looking unkempt, unwashed, forgotten and left to degrade into a state of disrepair. I have lived in Ponsonby all of my life. I spent afternoons doing homework, attending holiday programmes and with my children Wriggle and Rhyme and gymnastics.

Leys Institute was an incredible hub of activity and gave us a strong sense of belonging. We would eagerly look at the notice board to see what activities were on locally or being hosted there.

If it continues to sit, urban explorers will be in there causing destruction and then the historic Ponsonby building will be demolished.

Please reopen Leys Institute Library to our community and let me sign a waiver in case of an earthquake.

Brenny

WHAT IS WRONG WITH OUR CITY?

I have been working in Ponsonby for over 20 years and recently had visitors from Thailand and decided to take them for a visit up to the Waitakere Ranges which can be seen from my back deck in New Lynn. Two weekends the road access to the Arataki Vistor Centre was Residents Only. As was access to Piha and Bethels. The trip out west was just a long drive around crossing back and forth and in a circle. But the point is, 18 months after damage to the public roads, why is it still not repaired when we are wasting money planning and implementing unwanted strategies in our city costing millions? What is wrong with our city?

Brett Haine

MAGNIFYING GLASS

You publish an excellent magazine but it would be good to read it without the need of a magnifying glass!

Mike Lund

MALEVOLENT FORCE AT PLAY WITHIN AUCKLAND TRANSPORT (AT)

It is hard to avoid the conclusion that there is a malevolent force at play within Auckland Transport (AT).

Recently, upon visiting a local panel beaters (the terrific Hugh Stevens and Son) in Blake Street just off Jervois Road last week to get a repair to the type of damage an elderly local resident causes — I tried to back out of a driveway with the driver’s door open! Duh. I was very surprised to hear the latest example of AT madness from the locals.

AT has continued the ‘war on cars’ by moving to restrict parking in those nearby streets, all in order no doubt to ‘improve safety’ and improve the ability for the local community to use local services and businesses.

The issue is that, as Craig Stevens mentioned, being a panel beaters, where cars are delivered to the business to be expertly repaired, they need short term parking and lots of it. They require to move cars in and out of their workshops for the staff to be able to complete their skilled tasks with all their essential equipment.

Now AT has introduced or are going to introduce ‘Resident Parking’ which requires car by car number plate registration and payment of the annual fees to avoid being towed or ticketed.

So how can a business whose role is to help people look after their cars, and provide a service that inevitably most people will use sometime in their lifetimes, stay afloat and working within such a rigid ‘police state system’?

The answer is, they can’t!

Businesses, their owners and their employed staff are an after thought to AT.

This despite the businesses all paying the rates that AT wastes on billion dollar cycleways, drastically reduced car parks, raised pedestrian crossings, compressed carriageways, bus stops built out INTO the through fares and traffic lights every 200 metres.

What is wrong with AT that its allegedly intelligent staff do not recognise that they are destroying businesses, local communities, people’s lives and the enjoyment of the majority of the population with their ideologically driven group madness?

All it would need is a business sticker – perhaps with a QR code — on the window of Hugh Stevens and Son customers’ cars, for AT to be able to identify and avoid ticketing or towing those affected vehicles.

Has AT considered this? NO!

Why not?

Is there no one within AT who dares tells the powers that be at Auckland Transport, “Hey, the Emperor is not wearing any clothes!”?

Businesses such as panel beaters, dairies, butchers, green grocers, wine shops and fast food outlets NEED car parking compromises from AT that allow the businesses to continue to serve the community.

So here’s the question: When will Dean Kimpton and his team of highly paid executives finally realise that they are ruining our local communities?

When will they instruct, indeed demand, that their underlings design a system that allows businesses to survive (and flourish) and does not impose simple minded single solutions that destroy people’s businesses and therefore their enjoyment of life?

Over to you Dean. Can you do it? Let’s see shall we?

Roger Hawkins Herne Bay

35 YEARS OF PONSONBY NEWS

Wow! Time has gone so fast and have been reading your publication since 1989. I am one of your oldest fans. It was so sad to lose John Elliott, but Martin has continued the high standards he set during his time as publisher. Here is to the next 35 years!

Hugh Williams, Herne Bay

In her feature this month, Ponsonby News scribe Helene Ravlich talks about designing an outdoor living space for summer.

As she says, “When the temperature starts to rise, many of us who welcome the arrival of warmer weather invariably turn our focus to beautifying our home’s outdoor spaces – big or small.”

There’s a little path in Coxs Bay reserve that winds between Parawai Crescent and the bottom of Bayfield Road with native bush and birds on one side and the paddocks of Kelmarna Community Farm on the other. These are the 60-plus Hy-line hens living and laying at the farm. They lay around 50 eggs a day, depending on the season.

Grains recovered from local organics stores also form an essential part of their nutritious diet as well as organic feed pellets to make sure they are getting everything they need all year round.

As they told Ponsonby News, “We’re proud to be able to offer nutritious eggs from hens with a great quality of life.”

The new office for Ray White Ponsonby is now located at 3 Pompallier Terrace. Renowned owner of Ray White Remuera, Megan Jaffe, and her business partner Thomas Farmer, have taken the next step in their real estate journey, opening the new office.

“Ponsonby is such a vibrant and cool area, it’s very positive here – providing a healthy balance to the more traditional and gentrified suburbs that we continue to serve. We love the balance of ages and stages and real estate needs.”

We offer our best wishes to MOTAT, who are celebrating a big milestone and the museum calls on local support to help preserve history.

This year marks MOTAT's 60th anniversary, a remarkable milestone not just for the museum but also for Alan, who has been part of the team since its inception in 1964. As the celebrations unfold, Alan is channelling his enthusiasm into preserving his beloved trams, ensuring they continue to roll for generations to come.

The Adopt a Tram appeal Riding the trams is a firm favourite of the MOTAT experience and provides a free transport service in the local area. After nearly 45 years, the Western Springs Tramway requires essential upgrades to the tracks to continue operating.

For more details on how you can get on board and support the Adopt a Tram appeal, www.motat.nz/Adopt-A-Tram (JAY PLATT & MARTIN LEACH) CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

BRINGING CASUAL ITALIAN DINING TO THREE LAMPS

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

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

photography: Alex McVinnie

Jay Platt & Martin Leach

COXS BAY HELICOPTER APPLICATION

Coxs Bay helicopter application to be publicly notified due to impacts on valuable foraging habitats and potentially repetitive adverse effects on the environment of the surrounding coastal area.

Regular readers will be aware of the resource consent application for private use helicopter activity on a headland in Coxs Bay. Since the application was lodged three years ago, a significant number of Westmere and Herne Bay locals have expressed their concerns to Auckland Council about the potential impacts on endangered birdlife, public safety and the disruption of their peaceful neighbourhoods. Last month, a council-appointed Duty Commissioner, Mr Mark Farnsworth, declared that the Coxs Bay application should be publicly notified. Quiet Sky Waitematā applauds Mr Farnsworth’s careful consideration of the effects on the surrounding natural environment and nearby properties.

Public participation in decision making is vitally important when it comes to private use helicopters in residential areas. If approved, this application could set a precedent that opens the floodgates to multiple more private use helipads around Herne Bay, Westmere, Pt Chevalier and Te Atatu. Public sentiment on this issue is high and over 3000 people have signed a petition asking for an outright ban on all private use helicopters in residential areas.

Helicopters have no place in residential neighbourhoods in Tāmaki Makaurau. They are intrusive, noisy, harmful to the environment, cause mental distress for those living nearby and fly in the face of the vision of a sustainable city. There is a public helipad that is less than a 12 minute drive from St Marys, Herne Bay, Coxs Bay and Westmere. This seems to be a better alternative to damaging natural habitats that are safe havens for our wildlife and disrupting the lives of hundreds of people.

Elena Keith, Westmere www.quietsky.nz

THE WAITEMATĀ LOCAL BOARD: ITS TROUGH RUNNETH OVER

Ah, the Waitematā Local Board, truly a shining beacon of community engagement and integrity. For the past 15 months, it has expertly mastered the art of ignoring pleas from the community trying to save the Newmarket swimming pool complex.

The gallery was packed. The board showed up, again for yet another round of “Can we please get some answers?” But let’s be real, why would the board want to listen when it can enjoy a wonderful game of 'pretend to listen, pretend to care’?

Chair Gen Sage, ever the picture of professionalism, was busy putting on her best performance, complete with her sanctimonious commentary and insincere deference.

Remember, she crossed the floor to snag that chair position two years ago and, boy, has she earned it! Who needs principles when you have blind ambition, right Satan?

Meanwhile, Biker Bonham is doing her best impression of someone who gives a monkeys, while Richard Northey plays Russian roulette with his pen. Hey guess what Northey? Like you, it’s not loaded.

And what’s the latest excuse for not renewing the lease? Oh, they’re talking about structural testing for earthquake proofing. Because nothing screams 'we care' quite like

needing data on quakes both on land and at sea. A quick internet search tells us that’s just what you need to keep a community pool open. Not!

But wait, could this be a clever trick to replace the pool with yet another high-density apartment block? Surely not. That would just be like a real ‘coincidence’ much like the council’s dealings with developers at the ex-Auckland Council building behind Aotea Square, where the only thing paid for so far is lip service. Even John Tamihere called it dodgy.

So here’s to the Waitematā Local Board. May its feckless indifference continue to flourish while the community pool drowns in canine fertiliser.

And well done, Gen Sage, and bravo the City Vision team members in the Waitematā Local Board. Two cheeks of the same backside.

Pete Sake, Concerned Ratepayers Herne Bay

SPRING PLANS

Thanks to the enthusiasm of a few locals who have missed seeing my S-Cargo out and about in the hood and a cycle lobbyist reported her sitting on the road without a WOF. That was the ‘kick-in-the-butt’ required to get ‘Snael’ back on the road.

She was described as “one of the three icons of Auckland” along with the Sky Tower and the Harbour Bridge, by a gargle of K’ Road drag queens just after Lockdown.

Snael comes with a story. The S-Cargo was designed by the head of Japan’s Automotive Design School for Nissan, the Citroën 2CV (their partners), as a play on the word ‘escargot’, and the joke: the snail wanted an ‘S’ on the side of his car so that when he drove by everyone would say “see that S car go!” When I was growing up, my sisters used to call me “Gael Snail” to make me cry, now I love saying, “I’m Gael and drive a Snael.”

So, first step for the WOF was a new tyre from Tyreworx and a battery charge. She was caught on her way there by Jay Platt of the Ponsonby News who took this photo.

As part of my spring cleaning, I’ve also dusted off my design business, ‘Gael Force Design’ and the wind emoji logo will be added to her. The office, for appointments, is 173 K’ Road in Lambs Pharmacy. There are a few design projects percolating, including the Seawall Mural project [June PN].

After all, Karangahape Road is my home-away-from-home and spring is the time to create new plans.

Gael Baldock, GaelForceDesign@gmail.com

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

MEGAN JAFFE REAL ESTATE LTD

LICENSED (REAA 2008)

Part of the Megan Jaffe Real Estate group of offices – proudly representing Remuera, Orakei, and now the Ponsonby community.

Continuing on a legacy of exceptional results in Auckland’s Eastern Suburbs, and now the Inner West - we combine local expertise with the world-class systems and service that have made Megan Jaffe Real Estate No.1 Nationally for 10 consecutive years.

Wherever you are at, on your real estate journey, we would be honoured to have a conversation with you.

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

CHLÖE SWARBRICK

Chlöe Swarbrick is the MP for and the biggest fan of Auckland Central - she is Co-Leader of the Green Party of Aotearoa NZ.

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.

DESLEY SIMPSON

I am a dedicated and approachable Deputy Mayor of Auckland, with a handson approach and genuine commitment to improving local communities and solving issues in Auckland.

GAEL BALDOCK

We each follow our moral compass shaped by training. Mine is sculpting, architecture, sociology, anthropology and betterment of our shared world by community advocacy… and saving trees.

HELENE RAVLICH

A freelance writer and copywriter for almost 20 years, 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.

LISA PRAGER

A life long advocate for community issues, am passionate about protecting and enhancing our natural environment and built heritage.

MELISSA LEE

I have been a National List MP based in Mt Albert for the last 15 years, working hard to deliver outcomes for our community. am also the Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Ethnic Communities, and Associate Minister for ACC.

MIKE LEE

I am the councillor for Waitematā & Gulf. A former seafarer, former chair of the ARC, conservationist, PT advocate, and author.

I have represented the Ponsonby area since 1992.

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 - QSM

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.

SARITA SOLVIG BLANKENBURG

I am a passionate Ayurveda practitioner based in Ponsonby for the last 15 years. Inspiring others to live a healthy and fulfilled life is my higher purpose.

SARISA NASINPROM

Born in Thailand. Aotearoa is now my home. I believe we have but one body, one being, and a duty to care for it and to help others to care for theirs.

SARAH TROTMAN, ONZM

She has been rated the most effective Governor on the Waitematā Local Board. However, we rate her as the most effective community advocate, who led the C&R team from her sole voice on the Board to the majority at the last election, until...

SARAH TROTMAN, ONZM, C&R MEMBER AND ELECTED MEMBER OF THE WAITEMATĀ LOCAL BOARD

AN APOLOGY AND A REVIEW NEEDED FROM COUNCIL

The future of our much-loved important community asset, the Newmarket Olympic Pool and Fitness Centre, has been unclear for over five years. This has caused much distress to the lessee of 30+ years and the 6000+ weekly users.

At the 11th hour, in September, the Waitematā Local Board finally approved the granting of a lease to November 2034, subject to completion of statutory processes and a detailed capital works plan.

The lessee has operated the Olympic without complaint for over 30 years. For over five years they repeatedly flagged their concern at the looming lease expiry, yet Auckland Council’s poor process left key stakeholders in the dark while responsibility for the decision moved between the Chief Executive, Council’s Governing Body and the Waitematā Local Board. Finally, with fewer than two months left on a 30+ year lease, the exemplar lessee now has some clarity on Auckland Council’ s plans for the future. Auckland Council neglected its obligation to keep key stakeholders fully informed and questions must be asked about the poor process undertaken by council.

Good faith – A significant portion of council reports to Waitematā Local Board have been discussed in confidence. The Olympic lessee was essentially left operating ‘blind'. The Olympic did not have the opportunity to respond to matters raised by council officers. This concern was compounded by the apparent near lack of engagement by council officers with the Olympic, including during the recent regional procurement process.

Conflict of interest – Was there any conflict of interest arising between the work done to produce the reports before the Local Board and any negotiations with third parties during the procurement process for region-wide management of aquatic facilities?

Commercially sensitive information – What guarantees are in place to ensure such information remains confidential?

Contingency – What plans were made by council to operate the facility if the lease expired, and the leasers had acted on their obligations to sub-lessees' staff, suppliers and their lease obligations to ensure the property was clear of all the lessees' equipment?

Other community assets – Can council officers assure all 21 Local Boards that other important assets will not face similar challenges?

Obligations of lessor – Why was it left to the community to inform the Local Board of obligations to the 80+ Olympic staff?

In August, the Chair of the Local Board, Gen Sage, had the opportunity to support my Notice of Motion for a 10-year lease or at least my suggestion to grant a short term lease to 31 March 2025, while the matter was being resolved.

The Chair and the City Vision Members did not appear to understand the complexity of this matter. We are elected to make these governance decisions and should have done so.

My concerns are such that I consider an independent review, of the decision making and advice received, in conducting the lease negotiations for the Olympic is required. At the very least we owe this to our community, who rightly shared their frustration by speaking at our Local Board Business Meetings and inundating the Local Board with emails all of which expressed deep concern for the lessee and staff, sublessees and the 6000+ weekly users.

Finally, to local MP Hon. David Seymour, Newmarket Business Association CEO Mark Knoff Thomas and the numerous concerned Olympic users who attended our Business Meetings, thank you for your leadership, clarity of thought and common sense as council scrambled, at the 11th hour, to a logical conclusion.

On a More Positive Note, Three Cheers For Heritage Advocate

Julie Hill has long advocated preserving and recording our important local heritage. At the Parnell Heritage AGM last week, Foundation Member, Julie was awarded Lifetime Membership, bestowed by Co-Chair Roger Burton, in recognition of her substantial contribution over decades. Waitematā Local Board area is well served by many volunteers and community advocates. It’s always a great pleasure to see our volunteers being recognised for their selfless service to our community. Thank you, Julie, for your focus on heritage, particularly Parnell Auckland’s oldest suburb, established in 1841 after the first public land sale by auction held at Government House on 19 April 1841. (SARAH TROTMAN ONZM)  PN

To contact Sarah Trotman, in her capacity as a C&R Member, email her at sarahtrotman@outlook.com and to contact her, in her capacity as an Elected Member of Auckland Council’s Waitematā Local Board, email her at sarah.trotman@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or you can give her a call on M: 021 487 583.

TASTING SLOWLY, WITH GABRIELE MARANGONI, HEAD CHEF, ALLA PROSSIMA

At Alla Prossima, we believe food tastes best when prepared slowly with care using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

While our approach aligns with the international slow food movement (as evidenced by the inaugural 2021 Slow Food Auckland Snail of Approval Award), we like to think we bring our own unique differences.

Slow Food Movement

The Slow Food Movement began in Italy, in 1986, as a response to the rise of fast food, championing traditional, thoughtful preparation of meals. In addition, we honour the distinctive practices of the Emilia Romagna region.

Slow eating in Emilia Romagna

For centuries, the region’s cuisine has embraced ‘slow eating’ through time-honoured traditions, offering rich, authentic flavours that stand in stark contrast to fast food. Its culinary specialties are rooted in small-scale farms and regional markets, which produce deeper and more distinctive tastes. Meals are occasions to share with family, celebrating produce and preserving culinary traditions passed down through generations.

The region’s most celebrated slow food dishes — prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar from Modena — all employ traditional methods and require time. The flavours resulting from this meticulous ageing are deep, complex and balanced.

Slow Food and Fast Cars

Emilia Romagna is known as the land of slow food and fast cars, each evoking a strong emotional response. Both inspire passion and both require the authenticity of personal commitment. For example, we make our pasta by hand daily, in small batches, using fresh ingredients. Every sheet of tagliatelle is hand-cut, often in the restaurant, allowing people to see the hand of the chef behind the dish.

Cooking with Fire, Not Inside Plastic Bags

The same thinking applies to the way we make beef cheeks. Over fire. Sous vide may offer consistency, but cooking beef inside a plastic bag strips the dish of its flavour and soul. Fire is key. We spend hours with fire and pot, gently caramelising and rendering beef cheeks. It takes time, but it's worth it, because you can taste the difference.

We take all the time we need to prepare food for you; we’d like you to take your time enjoying it, savouring the hours of patience and centuries of tradition that go into each.

ALLA PROSSIMA, Abstract Hotel, 8 Upper Queen Street, T: 09 320 1671, www.allaprossima.co.nz

Megan Williams / David Hoskin / James Stewart

09 361 5563 Level 2, 18 Sale Street, Auckland CBD www.swlegal.co.nz

DAVID

HARTNELL:

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

WITH ANIKA BRADLEY

Anika Bradley is a travel consultant for Hello World Travel at the Ponsonby store.

She loves working on Ponsonby Road because of the coffee shops, the friendly faces and all the dogs.

Did you always want to be in the travel business?

I’ve always wanted to be in a job that gets me travelling, is social and has a positive impact on other people. I knew in high school that I wanted to pursue a career in the travel industry, so I decided to study at the School of Tourism to gain more confidence, qualifications and to get my foot in the door.

How did you survive the pandemic?

For the first lockdown was studying tourism. Being someone who is a hands-on learner, I found it challenging to stay motivated and engaged while also being confined to only my house but a part of me did really enjoy being able to stay in bed as long as I wanted and all the movie nights too. I would say that the pandemic changed my life by reminding me of my love for the outdoors we are so lucky to have in New Zealand, how important it is to spend quality time with your friends and it gave me the chance to learn more about myself.

I will die happy if?

If I continue to live life to the fullest and give everything a go. I’ve hilariously got ‘yolo’ tattooed on me (it was my first tattoo) so must live up to it!

Your bucket list?

Experiencing an aurora – one of those ‘see before you die’ kinds of experiences that I dream of.

Most Kiwi thing about you?

Walking around barefoot no matter the terrain.

Best day of your life?

At this point in my life, it would be the 1st of August 2023. I was travelling with my friend Sam in Paris. The night before, we spontaneously decided to book tickets to Disneyland for that next morning as we only had a few hours left before our next destination. We jumped on the earliest train to arrive at Disney as the gates were opening and spent the day unleashing our inner child. We laughed until our bellies ached, rode all the attractions possible and shared a memory that will be with us forever.

See yourself in 10 years – where?

I’d like to say I see myself in a beautiful house by the beach, maybe in New Zealand or somewhere else warm in the world.

If you were reincarnated, what would you be?

I think my friends would agree on this. I would be reincarnated as a monkey. They’re quite cheeky, know what they want and are confident.

Biggest disappointment?

When I finally got the opportunity to have an interview with Emirates for their cabin crew in Dubai but, unfortunately, I did not get through. Although this was disappointing as I was so excited for the opportunity and to finally have a chance at what I thought was my dream career, it led me to where am today and am so grateful. I am thriving and happy being a travel consultant.

How do you chill out?

By going on a drive to a beautiful beach or to a nice nature walk, play some music, bring some good snacks and be in the sun.

Which item of clothing can't you live without?

A jersey/hoodie. I love the heat and feeling warm, so on most days in New Zealand you will find me wrapped up in the warmest and cosiest jersey.

Your most treasured possession?

My memory box. like to collect things like photos, tickets to concerts, wristbands, souvenirs and past projects I’ve worked on.

Greatest fear?

To live a life full of regret and spiders.

What superpower do you wish you had?

It would be teleportation. It would be ideal to be able to travel to Greece or Spain for the weekend.

Which talent would you most like to have?

To play the guitar. practised when I was younger and took a few lessons but didn’t pursue it.

Your comfort food?

The cookie pizza from Pizza Hut. My local store knows how much I love it. I’ve even influenced a lot of my friends and they now share the same love for it.

The best thing your parents taught you?

Take all the chances that come my way.

MOTAT CELEBRATES 60 YEARS AND CALLS ON LOCAL SUPPORT TO HELP PRESERVE HISTORY

For as long as the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) has been entertaining and educating Kiwis, local tram enthusiast Alan Curtis has been a familiar face on museum grounds.

Now 77, lifetime volunteer Alan recalls what ignited a lifelong passion for the iconic museum and its tramway.

"My love for trams started as young as eight or nine. Like any young boy, I was utterly obsessed with anything on wheels,” says Alan, who earned his tram license at the tender age of 21.

“It’s been my home away from home for more than six decades. I’ve watched the tramway evolve from a small track inside the museum grounds to the bustling service it is today, and it gives me such pride to know the joy I've brought to countless visitors over the years."

This year marks MOTAT's 60th anniversary, a remarkable milestone not just for the museum but also for Alan, who has been part of the team since its inception in 1964. As the celebrations unfold, Alan is channelling his enthusiasm into preserving his beloved trams, ensuring they continue to roll for generations to come.

The Adopt a Tram appeal Riding the trams is a firm favourite of the MOTAT experience and provides a free transport service in the local area. After nearly 45 years, the Western Springs Tramway requires essential upgrades to the tracks to continue operating.

Without this essential work, these iconic trams could be confined to MOTAT’s grounds, marking the end of an era for a cherished piece of Auckland's rail legacy.

To rally local support, MOTAT has launched their Adopt a Tram campaign, giving Kiwis a rare opportunity to symbolically adopt

a piece of New Zealand's transport history and help keep the trams on the tracks.

There are seven heritage trams up for adoption, with donors receiving an adoption certificate for their chosen tram and name on the digital supporters' wall. Larger contributions will be acknowledged on a plaque in MOTAT's tram barn, along with a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum's heritage collection, including access to rare and retired vehicles not currently on display.

Alan, who is one of 38 passionate volunteers (ranging in age from 16 to 83 years) in the Tramways Heritage team, is optimistic those who love MOTAT will do their bit to keep to the trams rolling.

“The trams are a much-loved museum experience, with Kiwis holding cherished memories of clambering aboard with family and friends,” says Alan, who remains a friendly fixture behind the controller, operating the museum's tram service on LIVE Days.

"They are rich with stories from a bygone era and it’s important to preserve this heritage not just for documentation, but for the enjoyment of all. I’ve seen firsthand the happiness these tram rides bring to young and old.”

For more details on how you can get on board and support the Adopt a Tram appeal,

www.motat.nz/Adopt-A-Tram

Travel light or heavy?

A bit of both. My friends would say heavy as I pack every essential possible but there’s always an extra 7kg left on my luggage limit for shopping. (DAVID

HARTNELL,

MNZM)  PN

WAYNE BROWN:

MAYOR OF AUCKLAND

The spectacle of people urinating in the doorways of K' Road businesses is pretty unedifying.

Shopkeepers shouldn’t have to turn up and deal with the aftermath of this, and worse, when they prepare to open each morning.

I have a lot of sympathy for the businesses on K' Road. This has become more difficult for them to manage since public toilets were closed as part of the City Rail Link (CRL) construction works.

It’s meant there’s a lack of loos in the area and we’re seeing the results of that now. I tried getting CRL to open the new Beresford Square toilets as part of the Karanga-a-Hape train station earlier than planned.

They gave lots of reasons why it wasn’t possible, none of which are much help to K' Road businesses and residents. Council then promised me an ‘upmarket’ temporary toilet block would be put in place several weeks ago. I was disappointed to learn this wasn’t actioned.

Instead, we ended up with a couple of very unappealing portaloos that are in such a grubby state that many would hesitate to use them. It’s just not good enough on a range of levels.

I don’t think having reasonable public toilet facilities is asking too much. We should be able to do this and do it well. It seems absurd to me that the Mayor of the city needs to get involved in something so basic. But I’m happy to do it and see it through.

It’s also pretty clear there is, at best, mixed support for the permanent toilets council is planning to build in Mercury Lane. There are concerns it will become a haven for all manner of unsavouriness and I can understand that, to an extent.

I’m wary of foisting a solution on the local community that isn’t wanted. It may be the best option but we need to bring

the locals with us and help them understand why, not just tell them this is how it’s going to be.

I’ve had another go at getting council to engage properly with the local community to come up with a solution the majority can support. Let’s see how it goes.

The K' Road district is one of our city’s colourful, vibrant melting pots. I should know – I lived in the neighbourhood myself until very recently.

People from all walks of life gather here and it should be a place where we celebrate our diversity and inclusiveness.

It‘s also a place of contrasts. Amid the fun and colour of the night spots and entertainment, some of our most vulnerable Aucklanders sleep rough on the streets. Some grapple not only with homelessness but mental health and addiction issues.

We need to be taking a compassionate approach to people in this situation. And I don’t think we can sheet home all the issues around public urination to this group.

Antisocial conduct in the area takes many forms – graffiti, drug use, begging, intoxication, violence and other threatening behaviour. People relieving themselves in doorways is only one of the symptoms.

We need to look at how we can help preserve all that’s great about K' Road while reducing the things that may deter some people from going there for a fun time and supporting local businesses in the process.

don’t claim to have all the answers. But I welcome good ideas about what we can do to improve things. And we can get the toilets sorted in the meantime. (WAYNE BROWN)  PN www.facebook.com/WayneBrownAuckland Mayor.Wayne.Brown@Aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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NUTRITIOUS FREE RANGE EGGS AVAILABLE AT KELMARNA FARM

There’s a little path in Coxs Bay reserve that winds between Parawai Crescent and the bottom of Bayfield Road with native bush and birds on one side and the paddocks of Kelmarna Community Farm on the other. It’s a small but perfectly formed slice of country in Grey Lynn.

Completing the bucolic picture are sheep peacefully grazing and chickens gently clucking and pecking around their dedicated paddock.

These will be some of the 60-plus Hy-line hens living and laying at the farm. They lay around 50 eggs a day, depending on the season. Finding those eggs can become a bit of a treasure hunt sometimes, says Chicken Chief Sarah Lilly Moss-Baker. “They really do have free range. We give them a lovely life amongst our paddocks and trees and sell the eggs at the Farm Shop and through the Community Supported Agriculture scheme."

With start-up funding via a grant from the Waitematā Local Board, the whole chicken and egg project aims to be a truly regenerative, low-carbon model for localised egg production. The farm utilises local food waste which reduces the need for industrial chicken feed grown and transported in from elsewhere as well as using food by-products that would normally be considered waste.

‘Closed loop’ and locally sourced feed options include fish heads and frames, whey recovered from milk processing and okara from tofu processing, all providing the essential protein and fat for healthy hens. Sarah-Lilly says they are also collaborating with Daisuke Arao, of Common Knowledge Insect to test growing Black Soldier fly larvae onsite to add to the chicken feed.

Grains recovered from local organics stores also form an essential part of their nutritious diet as well as organic feed pellets to make sure they are getting everything they need all year round.

And of course the chickens forage in the free-range pasture for a variety of greens and are given farm grown fruit and other picked leaves.

The current landscape of egg production in New Zealand is dominated by intensive laying operations with feed production and transport contributing substantially to the global warming potential of poultry systems.

Says Sarah, "We see the potential for our ethical, wasteminimising egg production system to provide a teaching model for aspiring small-scale farmers to participate in, learn from and apply to their local communities elsewhere."

The project has also opened up a wealth of diverse educational opportunities for local schools, community groups and volunteers to engage with regenerative agriculture and food sovereignty.

The eggs are sold in the Farm Shop and via a weekly subscription service known as Community Sourced Agriculture (CSA). It’s a partnership-based model where community members and farmers work together to produce and share food. It’s very similar to the vege box CSA – you pay for the season upfront and then collect your share of eggs and/or veggies every week for the three month season.

"We’re proud to be able to offer nutritious eggs from hens with a great quality of life," says Sarah.

Visit the website or instagram to join the weekly egg and veggie subscriptions and to learn more about Kelmarna Community Farm and volunteering opportunities.

KELMARNA COMMUNITY FARM, 12 Hukanui Crecent, T: 09 376 0472, www.kelmarna.co.nz

HERNE BAY RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (HBRA) SAYS…

The Waitematā Local Board (WLB) has grants of between $3000 and $10,000 available for local Herne Bay organisations, clubs and charities in its January-February 2025 bi-annual funding round. Historically, this funding has not been sought by Herne Bay locals.

Over the 2024/2025 year, the Board has $128,000 for local projects that meet the criteria of Identifying community outcomes through community activities, creative arts, sporting events, public safety ideas, climate change resilience.

To apply, organisations will need to detail what the grant money will be used for, the organisation’s funding history and financial status. Applications will open for a month between January 22, 2025 and February 28, 2025 with a WLB decision made on April 15, 2025 for projects that occur after May 1, 2025.

As far as we can establish, it was this organisation that was the last Herne Bay-based entity that received these grants for a project; in November 2019 we were granted $3750 for evidence preparation that led to the group of Art Deco buildings between Wallace and Salisbury Streets being given Historic Heritage Status. This prevented forever the sites being developed as apartments.

For lesser amounts in what are known as ‘quick response grants’, Herne Bay organisations, the Ponsonby Baptist Church ($3000) and the Herne Bay Racquets Club ($1350) were successful in June last year.

At its monthly meeting in October, the WLB considered 34 applications for funding for one of two 2024/2025 rounds from within its board catchment that extends from the city around to Kingsland, through Grey Lynn and Westmere to Herne Bay and St Marys Bay. Grant applications of $274,000 far exceeded the available funds for this round. Not one application was received from a Herne Bay based organisation. Two applicants were disqualified because one sought more and another less than the specified grant funding amounts.

Applications ranged from Bike Auckland Limited (for a fourday bike festival), the Festival of Live Arts Trust (for a festival), the NZ Indian Central Association (for 96 cricket balls), Dress for Success Incorporated (a very successful organisation that empowers woman to thrive in life), and the Auckland Women’s Centre (funding of self-defence courses).

Greg Moyle, deputy chair of the WLB, has lived in Herne Bay for decades and is passionate about the area. He believes there are many “lost opportunities” for local organisations that are missing out on grant funding. These are organisations such as the local Petanque Club in Salisbury Reserve, the West End Bowling Club at 13 Hamilton Road, the Ponsonby Bowling Club in Jervois Road and the Sea Scouts at Westmere.

“There are also many community organisations around doing excellent work for the community that should be applying for this funding,” he says.

To establish whether your organisation meets the funding criteria, Greg urges organisations to contact the Local Board Grants Adviser on T: 09 301 0101 or email: communityfunding@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

These advisers can provide information on:

How to apply.

Provide information on the best grant to apply for.

Provide advice on how to fill out the on-line application forms.

Assess your application and contact you if further information is required.

Grant advisers will also visit the organisation or meet you at the nearest community centre. You can also visit the WLB office and ask to speak to a grant’s adviser in person. You can also read about community grants on the Auckland Council website under ‘community grants policy’.

It is worth noting before organisations apply that the WLB will NOT fund the following:

Debt servicing or repayments.

Legal or medical expenses.

Activities that promote religious ministries or political purposes.

Public services that are the responsibility of central government, ie, core education and health.

The purchase of alcohol.

Improvements to community buildings before the appropriate consents have been obtained.

Those who are ineligible for grant funding are political parties, local or central government agencies, employees and families of Auckland Council and its subsidiaries.

Limited liability companies can apply but the benefits would need to clearly and directly benefit the community. For example, this would encompass the cost of delivering a free community event or activity, or to subsidise the cost of a charged-for event thereby reducing the fees to enable community access.  PN

www.hernebay1011.nz

CHLÖE SWARBRICK: CO-LEADER OF THE GREEN PARTY AND MP FOR AUCKLAND CENTRAL

On World Homelessness Day this October, Kick Back (an Auckland Central organisation founded on the purpose of ending youth homelessness), Auckland Action Against Poverty and ActionStation released their ‘Duty to Assist’ campaign.

If this was successful, their policy intervention would require state agencies, health professionals and community organisations to actively do everything possible to prevent somebody experiencing homelessness.

Under current policy, someone can turn up to Work & Income on the brink of becoming homeless and be told to come back after they are, indeed, homeless, when they then might be entitled to some help or support. Aside from being utterly dehumanising and trust destroying to reach out for help and have it denied, the current policy settings also mean a bizarre waste of resources – it’s so much more expensive and complicated to try and get somebody off the street and into housing, especially if the services interacted with in the meantime include the Police, than it is to ensure they never get there in the first place.

When asked Aaron Hendry, co-founder of Kick Back, who’s spent years working at the front lines trying to house and support young people in Auckland, about what he thought the biggest misconceptions about the people he worked with were, he said, “A lot of people believe that homelessness is an individual problem. Often, a moral failing. That someone has done something wrong and that’s why they’re there. think time and time again, what we see is people – in our case, young people – who have fallen through every gap that exists in our system, who have often been harmed, who are dealing with really hard stuff in their lives… And when they’ve reached out for the support from trusted adults, professionals, government agencies, they’ve slipped through the cracks.”

If we want to solve homelessness – instead of just moving people along and never actually dealing with the root cause of the issue – we need to house people. That means properly resourcing the fence at the top of the cliff, while also ensuring the ambulance at the bottom is available and ready to go for those who’ve already fallen off over the past few decades of poverty-driving trickle-down economics.

Unfortunately, we’re seeing both the fence at the top and the ambulance at the bottom being ripped away by current Government policy. The Government has chosen to put the brakes on 370 Kainga Ora developments. In August 2023, the number of emergency housing places in Auckland was 804. A year later, it is 138. As has been much publicised, the Government isn’t tracking where those who are kicked out end up. Front-line workers like Aaron tell me they’re seeing growing numbers of desperate people walking through their door.

Politicking, puritanicalism and a sense of being right doesn’t actually mean much when we’re confronted with the daily reality of a growing number of people with increasingly complex needs on our streets. That’s why I’ve been working so consistently across the aisle with Minister of Police, Mark Mitchell, through our inner city safety group, to raise the hopefully non-controversial, rational alarm that the identifiable variables right now in housing insecurity and poverty figures do not paint a rosy picture of what’s to come but, in fact, likely mean far greater social challenges in everything from the immediate to longer term.

Something’s got to give. We can and must have a rational debate – economically, socially and practically, about the costs (human and fiscal) and benefits of the kind of desperately needed long-term, multi-partisan investment in the housing, healthcare, educational and other infrastructure needed for a functional, let alone flourishing, city and country.

(CHLÖE SWARBRICK)  PN

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

A grant from the Waitematā Local Board in 2019 helped save these iconic Art Deco buildings in Jervois Road from future development.

Chlöe Swarbrick & Aaron Hendry

GAEL BALDOCK: AUCKLAND TRANSPORT IS NOT ‘READING THE ROOM’

Rather than gracefully changing tack, in two recent situations AT has ‘doubled down’ and may be left with ‘egg on its face’, or something worse.

Although a diagram on AT’s website still shows the top of Mercury Lane closed to traffic, it did consult on pedestrianising, with 44% local support. However, AT did not consult on change of direction traffic.

That percentage didn’t make sense. AT is expecting 75% of patrons to embark at Beresford Station, so few people will climb the hill. I made a petition, convinced by a commercial business owner [letter p8 Sept PN] and locals I spoke with who wanted Mercury Lane back to how it was.

ACCESS TO MERCURY LANE KARANGAHAPE ROAD PETITION

"We demand that Auckland Council and Auckland Transport reinstate accessibility to Mercury Lane from Karangahape Road once the current services works are completed. Maintain the one way direction of Mercury Lane downhill from K' Road to Canada Street. Keep the road as per previous layout: open 24/7; car parking; loading zones; accessibility to George Courts Building parking via left turn off Mercury Lane; accessibility off Mercury Lane to AC Carpark Building; keep the right turn off Mercury Lane to Canada Street.”

Petition support was overwhelming. After three afternoons and three hours on Saturday evening, 125 business owners and/ or managers signed the petition. One owner signed seven times for each of his venues. A ‘sex-worker’ and a Hollywood ‘movie star’ overheard the petition being explained and insisted on signing. Only three businesses were against the petition meaning less than 2% supported AT’s plan.

K’ Road’s public toilet closed when the CRL started. To back up this street closure, AT planned to install a $100k public toilet in Mercury Lane. When both stations open they will have toilets. There are more convenient locations for the conveniences. closer to the bus stops. Hence a second petition:

KARANGAHAPE ROAD PUBLIC TOILET PETITION

"We demand that Auckland Council and Auckland Transport locate two new public toilets: one at the corner of Karangahape Road Rainbow Bridge and Cobden Street and one at the top of Queen Street adjacent to the steps to Time Out Cafe by the Baptist Tabernacle. Both these sites are accessible for mobility impaired persons and will complement the future CRL public toilets. We do not support the location of an inaccessible public toilet in Mercury Lane.”

Mayor Brown, Auckland Transport, CRL and AC Community Facilities Director met on 3 September to discuss the possibility of opening the Beresford Station public toilet sooner than the station completion. They came up with a compromise, ‘flash port-a-loos’. The Mayor was told they were installed on 4 October. That was a lie. 17 October they installed two ‘bog standard’ port-a-loos with graffiti galore but no sanitiser, bog rolls or door locks. The Mayor was not impressed. Something ‘hit the fan’ and it wasn’t glitter. It certainly seemed like a giant ‘bird’ to the petitions formally presented to the Waitematā Local Board on 15 October.

Another matter that didn’t impress the Mayor was AT’s decision to reduce the Meola/Garnet roundabout to single lane, after they had agreed to keep it two lanes. “A quick chat to a relatively open-minded AT manager has resulted in a minor change to let drivers go straight through to continue their journey on Garnet Road.” Opinion Wayne Brown, Sunday Star Times, 15 September.

On 2 August, a local business owner and I were told by AT that not all the pedestrian crossings would be raised and there was a signal being added. We believed we had already convinced AT to keep two lanes by pointing out the two lanes of seven cars would extend to the next street if there was only one lane.

Glen McKendry, Westmere Butchery manager and had presented to the AT Board asking to keep two lanes. He also said this award-winning business attracts customers from across the city, "On a Sunday we would have 500 to 600 customers, at the moment that is down to 400.” NZ Herald, 7 September, Westmere Butchery’s petition was formally presented to the Waitematā Local Board on 15 October signed by nine out of the 12 Westmere Village businesses. The bakery and the cafe were new to the village and didn’t have the history to choose a side. Apparently AT chose to gazump the Mayor with a petition of five people, teachers from Western Springs College and businesses (there was only one left). Now we have narrowed roads, I’m reminded of the Mayor’s question, “What is the problem we’re trying to fix here?” To which he answered, “It looks like AT are just creating a problem." (GAEL BALDOCK)  PN

GaelB@xtra.co.nz

Sign petitions at Vixen, 191 K’ Road.

MEGAN JAFFE REAL ESTATENOW IN PONSONBY WITH RAY WHITE

Renowned owner of Ray White Remuera, Megan Jaffe, and her business partner Thomas Farmer, have taken the next step in their real estate journey, opening Ray White Ponsonby.

Megan Jaffe Real Estate Limited, which consists of offices in Remuera, Orakei and now Ponsonby has been no.1 nationally for Ray White 10 years running and is deeply committed to bringing the same fantastic service that the MJRE team is known for to the Ponsonby community.

There is a foundation sales team of experienced salespeople and more familiar faces joining the team. Megan said growth of the business with the right people is a focus for MJRE Ponsonby. “Our main goal is to establish the right team, with the right presence in the Ponsonby community — it is all about people,” she said.

“We want to be known in Ponsonby for exactly what Megan Jaffe Real Estate is all about — good people, supporting, contributing and doing what is right for our local community.

“Our salespeople asked us many, many times to do it. Our team reflect the demographic of the area and live and love the lifestyle on offer; increasingly so as the next generation of salesperson joins and builds their client relationships in their chosen geographical area.

“Our clients are actively upsizing, downsizing and cross-sizing throughout Ponsonby. With a refreshed energy thanks to the OCR drops, interest rate drops and lower inflation levels.

“Ponsonby is such a vibrant and cool area, it’s very positive here providing a healthy balance to the more traditional and gentrified suburbs that we continue to serve. We love the balance of ages and stages and real estate needs.”

Megan Jaffe Real Estate – Ray White Ponsonby is located at 3 Pompallier Terrace, complete with a full complement of real estate services to support you.

RAY WHITE PONSONBY, 3 Pompallier Terrace, T: 09 777 7812, www.rwponsonby.co.nz

AUCKLAND TRANSPORT AND THE PEOPLE’S WHARF

The relentless empire and its ambitions for Queens Wharf

Many Aucklanders would have thought Yes!! on hearing Mayor Wayne Brown’s call for the breakup of Auckland Transport. But one shouldn’t get one’s hopes up too high. Same thing with the NZ First private members bill to bring AT under direct control of Auckland Council – just as transport used to be in Auckland and still is everywhere else in New Zealand. As Deputy PM Winston Peters told Parliament, "This Bill is about bringing democratic accountability back to Auckland's transport system"… But when and if this ever becomes law is another matter. I hear the Ministry of Transport is energetically lobbying to protect the monster it helped impose on Auckland 15 years ago. Still, at least the politicians know the public wants something done about AT. That being said, changes can be made to AT right now, if the council was of a mind to, stripping away functions AT has accumulated over and above its statutory roles. I’ve made suggestions to the Mayor’s office about these to at least make a start. We shall see.

Meanwhile, AT, showing no signs of being fazed by any of this, is relentlessly pushing on expanding its empire. Not for nothing does AT get to spend the largest proportion of council’s income, $3.4bn this year.

AT’s latest ambition is to take ownership of a new harbour ferry fleet. Interestingly, ferries in Auckland unlike buses and trains, have always been privately owned. Of course, AT has no intention of re-establishing publicly owned public transport. On the contrary, while its ferry ‘nationalisation’ plan has Auckland ratepayers paying for a new fleet of ferries in addition to the three $20m each ‘zero emission’ (electric) ferries AT is currently having built, AT intends to hand the operation of these and the rest of its intended fleet to Fullers 360, the Scottish-owned near monopoly ferry operator. It’s the standard neoliberal formula, socialise the costs – privatise the profits. As part of this $215m-plus scheme, AT plans to build three-storey-high electric charging units at the eastern outer-end of Queens Wharf.

Now, Queens Wharf was purchased jointly from Ports of Auckland by the Auckland Regional Council and the government in 2009. The ARC’s objective was to open the red fence, which for 90 years had locked Aucklanders out from Queens wharf, to provide much needed waterfront public open space, as well as for a cruise ship terminal. The government had a rather different but compatible enough agenda, to use the

wharf as a fan base, ‘party central’ as the PM John Key called it, for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. I recall the negotiations with the port company were difficult and protracted but in the end we got there. In September 2009 Queens Wharf was opened to the public with PM John Key, and myself as ARC chairman, making celebratory speeches to a crowd of jubilant Aucklanders. I even recall proclaiming Queens Wharf ‘The People’s Wharf’! After a public design competition for a new cruise ship terminal failed to impress, concluded we should instead keep the then dilapidated, but heritage-quality, former cargo shed, Shed 10, and refurbish it as the new terminal. In 2012, former CCO Waterfront Auckland, completed a substantial but cost-effective renovation, enabling Shed 10 to resume its maritime working career as a fit-for-purpose cruise ship terminal.

Since the demise of Waterfront Auckland, AT which has an office building on inner Queens Wharf, has expanded its control over the wharf. At some stage it shoved taxi ranks off downtown streets and onto the wharf. In 2019 it built six new ferry berths along the western side. Now it intends to expand its footprint further with these eight metre high visually intrusive, battery chargers, covering 350 square metres, and hundreds of metres of cabling, and is seeking resource consent to do so. Members of the public, led by the City Centre Residents Group, is opposing AT’s industrialisation of this valued public open space. They argue the chargers should be located on the inner western side of the wharf, much closer to the ferries they are meant to serve. I agree, if this hugely expensive approach is the only feasible option. However, understand there are way more economic and less intrusive ways to charge these ferry e-batteries, as happens in Wellington.

While AT is never reluctant to expand its empire, speaking as a former director, cost-efficiency and accountability to the public, are not qualities I normally associate with the organisation. As Winston Peters aptly put it "AT has been a failed experiment from the start." (MIKE LEE)  PN www.mikelee.co.nz

Waitematā & Gulf Ward city component, as established by the Local Government Commission – elegantly balanced –almost an island.

A LUNCH FOR THE AGES

We are sat at Trivet in Downtown Auckland on chef’s tables around the most awesome raw bar. The square geometry, sleek white lines and gleaming ice.

The bright light enveloping the whole room through palatial street-facing windows gives a feeling and clarity akin to breathing pure oxygen. The senses are certainly heightened.

Chef Wallace Mua, with his ever-present smile, artfully pares his knife into trevally for his truffle, soy and chilli oil infused sashimi. Shayne Hammond of Poppies Vineyard in Martinborough sits next to me, the two of us grinning eagerly awaiting the dish. While Chef puts his finishing touches to the dish, I ask Shayne about the 2023 Poppies rosé. “Well, it's a 100% Pinot noir with a touch of Gabrielle,” he states. With a rueful look he goes on to explain how in February 2023 they were lashed with 15 days straight of torrential rain. Maybe not as devastating as in Hawkes Bay but exceptionally serious. This led to a decision to not produce any reds in 2023, but rosé is a different prospect. Shayne and Poppy are aiming to make New Zealand’s greatest rosé using methods developed in Provence, France.

The greatest rosés – as displayed by the 2023 Poppies rosé – have a hint of under ripeness in the fruit and over ripeness in texture with a gorgeous taste that develops well into the mid palate with body and structure and then lengthens out with hints of spice. This was the perfect pairing to Wallace’s dish complementing the cool fish texture and condiments incredibly. Oh, for a hundred more sashimi pieces!

Wallace talks on a theme ever-present in the best Auckland chef’s – our cuisine is a homage to techniques and styles learnt the world over. Wallace combines ingredients and flare learnt in France with the heartiness and beauty of Samoan food culture. He shows this delightfully with his trevally oka, the fish sitting on top of the most lovely and crusty taro with coconut yoghurt, chillies and capers.

I laugh with Pauline Leray, restaurant manager, as we discuss culture and food. Being French, expect her to tell me how French cuisine is her first love, but she talks on how so many French actually love Italian food. Pauline has been instrumental in getting Trivet match-ready for launch and deserves praise for how well the restaurant runs and feels straight from the get-go.

And, as often happens in sunlit rooms with healthy and fresh food aplenty and delightful beverages to match, the smiles and conversation flow easily. Shayne talks of working and exploring Europe as a ‘Surfer Chef’. Wallace of touring with the All Blacks as their chef during the French World Cup.

The World’s Greatest Vineyards

Pauline of her town close to Versailles. What wonderful stories, wonderful experiences, that, as I hear of them, feel so real, so close. I can vividly visualise them. Oh, for a thousand lives to try it all. But in fact when we listen to others. sharing in their experiences, although you may not own the experience yourself, it does bring you a like you were part of it too. Perhaps the universal experience of sharing is our way of accepting that ultimately we really are all merely ‘One’.

(PUNEET DHALL)  PN

@puneetofponsonby

Poppies Martinborough Rosé 2023

Popp

94 Po

94 Points - Cameron Douglas MS

This i cherr fruits saliva core ow

This is simply delicious, aromas and flavours of fresh red cherry with a lick of maraschino, strawberry and chilled red fruits tea. Crisp, dry, fine chalky-textured tannins and salivating line of acidity with a touch of salt alongside the core of red fruits that reflect the bouquet. A wine perfect on its own or with fresh fare from tuna sashimi or tataki to red beet risotto and fresh cheeses.

MIKE LEE:

Opening the ‘People’s Wharf’, September 2009, Prime Minister John Key & ARC chair Mike Lee talking to media

KIWIS SWIPE THEIR WAY TO $2.4M FOR YOUTH CHARITIES WITH ONE GOOD KIWI

Community-driven app from One New Zealand supports a wide range of youth charities through everyday swipes.

We scroll, we swipe, we tap – it’s part of our everyday rhythm. But what if that simple action could improve lives?

In just two years, One Good Kiwi, an app launched by One New Zealand when it underwent a brand transformation from Vodafone NZ, has revolutionised the way New Zealanders support youth charities. By swiping on their phones, Kiwi has provided koha of over $2.4 million, funding causes that stretch from urban centres to rural communities – covering everything from mental health programmes to sports initiatives, life saving skills and even birthday cakes.

Every month, the One Good Kiwi app empowers users to gift 10 tokens to a range of charities supporting rangatahi. And what’s best, anyone can do it, you don’t have to be a One New Zealand customer. At the end of the month, One New Zealand distributes $100,000 amongst those charities based on their token count for the month, giving everyone the opportunity to support the wellbeing of our youth – without needing to dip into their own pockets.

Susannah Winger, Head of Brand & Loyalty at One New Zealand, sums up the app’s appeal: “One Good Kiwi brings giving into the everyday. We wanted to make it easy, so people can contribute to important causes just by swiping during a quiet moment in their day – whether they’re waiting for a bus or having a coffee. We’ve seen such strong engagement because people love that their small action leads to real impact.”

It’s not just the well-known charities that benefit. Local organisations like Kiwi Christmas Books, which delivers new books to families and kids in low socio-economic communities, have seen the impact firsthand. “I don’t know where we would be without One Good Kiwi support. This funding has given us the ability to grow our reach, to impact many more young lives, to get thousands more books into the hands of kids who would otherwise go without,” says Sonya Wilson, founder of Kiwi Christmas Books.

The range of causes supported by the app is vast. Water safety lessons for young people living near the coast, job training programmes for teens experiencing disadvantage in rural areas, mentorship schemes that pair at-risk rangatahi with positive role models – the range of impact covers every corner of Aotearoa. From urban to rural, from environmental

to educational, One Good Kiwi brings the full spectrum of youth needs into focus.

With 3.7 million tokens distributed and 50,000 active users each month, it's clear that New Zealanders are eager to make a difference. As One Good Kiwi enters its third year, the app continues to democratise philanthropy by helping charities that once struggled for visibility and consistent support.

Beyond financial contributions, charities featured on One Good Kiwi see benefits that extend far beyond the monthly donations. Susannah adds: “For many of the smaller charities, being featured on the app also drives traffic to their websites and increases their social media engagement. In some cases, we’ve seen a 40% boost in website visits during their feature month and charities have reported a significant rise in social media activity.” This added exposure helps grassroots organisations connect with new supporters and donors, creating a ripple effect that lasts well beyond their time on the app.

One Good Kiwi has proven that giving back doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. In an era where many feel financially stretched, this app offers a chance for New Zealanders to make a real impact on their communities – simply by swiping on their phones.

For more information, or to join this growing movement, download the One Good Kiwi app today or visit onegoodkiwi.one.nz

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

Be sure to check out www.coverttheatre.com

You can support all the good giggle’s by donation right here, www.coverttheatre.com/how-to-help

AUTHENTIC GERMAN KITCHENS

OCTOBER

Paying Tax for a Civilised Society

In October, Ponsonby U3A’s guest speaker, Terry Baucher, gave members fascinating insights into taxation over the past 75 years. Clearly the mood has changed and fair taxation is on the lips of many. Terry spoke of the challenges we face as a country and pointed to the possible ways ahead and why we must embrace tax.

With 40 years as a tax specialist, Terry runs his own consulting business, is a frequent commentator in the media and is passionate about teaching people to learn to love tax as indeed he does. Chronicling the evolution of tax systems, Terry canvassed the post-war period of long-term consensus about tax fairness under Fraser, to policy overturn by Rogernomics.

Tax policy is at the intersection of three competing issues –expectations, economics and politics. The last Tax Working Group concluded the tax-take relies on a relatively narrow range of taxes, is not progressive and reduces fairness. It benefits the wealthiest of those in our society. Group members contended we should expand our tax-base to include capital gains from residential, rental investment properties.

Terry’s statistics showed that 87% of all revenue comes from personal tax and GST. Surprisingly, in relation to debt, New Zealand is one of the few countries with a positive financial net worth and private not public debt is the problem. However, if allowed to grow, government debt could become a problem. Governments will need to adjust either by raising taxes or cutting services. And the crunch will come, Terry argues, by the end of this decade.

Compounding the problem is the declining ratio of working people to those over 65 years. Our mix is also changing. Increasingly our population will become browner and more East Asian, but wealth will be locked up in older pakehas.

Many issues are fast piling up – migrants needing housing, older people needing monetary supplements, intergenerational inequality. 697,000 New Zealanders experience persistent disadvantage, with solo parents and Pacific peoples experiencing the highest rates, followed by Māori and people with disability. New Zealand’s egalitarianism is a myth.

Climate change will break the cycle, warns Terry, because it is happening now. So many people need flood protection. Tactically, we could increase tax rates and bring in different taxes. The IMF this year recommended tax reforms including

capital gains tax (CGT), land value tax and changes to corporate income tax. Increasingly there is an appetite for a CGT despite its volatility.

Conflict of interest, observes Terry, is the elephant in the room.

66.5% of New Zealanders own property; 93.3% of all MPs; 75.8% of MPs own more than one property and 52.5% of MPs have three or more.

Terry and economist Susan St. John are working on a tax change called 'Fair Economic Return' to improve our unsustainable system. Susan and Terry estimate that it would bring in about $2.7 billion in a fiscal year. Terry reminded members that in face of the crunch to come, we will all be asked to contribute to a fairer society. We have only one planet and we need to think of what we will leave for our mokopuna.

John Toews, a highly experienced psychologist, gave an entertaining and thought-provoking 10-minute talk on the increasing research questioning the mental acuity of Donald Trump. Using the research criteria, Trump has been labelled by some as demonstrating malignant narcissism. Increasingly, Trumps’ behaviour spells danger for democracy and for a nuclear winter.

Ponsonby U3A welcomes newcomers. If you are interested in attending, first as a visitor, please call President Bronwyn Hughes on M: 021 549 093. (CHRISTINE HART)  PN

NEXT MEETING: Friday, 8 November 2024

GUEST SPEAKER: Bridget Hackshaw: 'The Architect and the Artists'

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

ENQUIRIES: Bronwen Hughes, President, Ponsonby U3A, M: 021 549 093 www.u3a.nz

POP UP SHOP

It’s the Final Month of our Ponsonby Road Pop Up Store.

Come and visit to see all of the new arrivals in store including Turkish Rugs, runners and cushions… PLUS we have a new range of 100% cotton Turkish beach towels just in time for Christmas.

177 Ponsonby Road Wed – Sat 10am – 4pm until end of November. Call 0221 635 300 or visit yuva.co.nz @yuvarugs

NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN MT ALBERT

It was an absolute honour to host the inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium last month, right here in Auckland.

The symposium brought together Government and business, community and industry experts to explore an important topic: the role that our ethnic communities and businesses can play in growing New Zealand’s economy. Focusing on the key areas of trade, investment and innovation, it was a day filled with valuable insights, practical tips and case studies on how ethnic communities can supercharge our economic growth.

A common point that was raised was that New Zealand’s ethnic diversity is a real competitive advantage compared to many other Western countries – so, are we leveraging it to its full potential? Plenty of food for thought and I look forward to seeing the tangible next steps to come out of this symposium.

I’m always aware of what a privilege it is to hold the ministerial portfolios of Economic Development and Ethnic Communities, and the symposium represented the perfect synergy between them. My thanks to the Ministry for Ethnic Communities for delivering such a great event and a shout-out to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment for its significant input too.

The symposium being hosted in Auckland was no coincidence – our city has been ranked the fourth most ethnically diverse in the world. This was backed up by the latest batch of 2023 Census data released last month, which revealed that one in three Aucklanders has an Asian ethnicity.

This diversity is something that should be celebrated. As Ethnic Communities Minister, it’s a real privilege to not only join in, but also champion a range of cultural celebrations as a way to promote social cohesion. We’re now fully into Diwali season and I’ve already been to several celebrations in Auckland and elsewhere in the country – with more coming this month. It’s a real testament to New Zealand’s rich ethnic diversity, which reaches all corners of our country.

As ever, our Government is cracking on with the job of getting our country back on track. It was great to see the FamilyBoost scheme kick in, providing valuable cost-of-living support to families with children in early childhood education (ECE). Eligible families are reimbursed 25 percent of their ECE costs, up to $75 a week. You can find out more at www.ird.govt.nz/ familyboost. Also last month, we rolled out our final quarterly Action Plan for 2024, which has a big focus on making it easier and faster to build infrastructure in New Zealand.

It's astonishing that we’re already into November – where has the year gone! Time really flies when you’re part of a team that’s busy delivering real, positive outcomes for New Zealanders. I’m looking forward to carrying on this momentum as we enter the last couple of months of the year –this Government is laser-focused on getting our country back on track.

Until next time, (HON MELISSA LEE)  PN

National List MP based in Mt Albert

Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington M.Lee@Ministers.govt.nz

If you require any assistance I and my office are always happy and ready to provide advice and support.

Please get in touch on 09 520 0538 or at MPLee@parliament.govt.nz to make an appointment

Melissa Lee

National List MP based in Auckland

MPLee@parliament.govt.nz melissalee.co.nz mpmelissalee

Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

Terry Baucher

HELEN WHITE: LOCAL ISSUES: PRIVATE HELICOPTER USAGE AND EDEN PARK

Happy Diwali! Thank you to those of you who’ve met with me in the last few weeks and to all Ponsonby News readers and locals for the important roles you play in our community.

Recently, I’ve met with residents in Westmere who have shared their views about local helicopter usage. I met with a group called Quiet Skies, who are particularly concerned about a current resource consent application for 28 weekly helicopter movements for a home in Rawene Avenue, Westmere. If granted, these helicopters will land over a public beach.

Quiet Skies has raised several impacts and potential risks that this would impose on both nearby residents and members of the public who use the beach. These include excess noise, effects on the endangered wildlife that inhabits the Coxs Bay mudflats, broader climate and ecological concerns and the safety of members of the public using space near helipads, such as walkers, paddle boarders, kite surfers, kayakers and swimmers.

Broadly, my position is that the sky is part of the commons and should be for enjoyment by all, and we should be cautious about granting private people rights that impact these spaces. I can also see merit in using existing alternatives, such as the heliport at Mechanics Bay.

It might be time to look at the rules in a more general way, such as how many helicopter movements are too many and whether environmental consequences and residents’ concerns are being considered sufficiently. One further issue is the safety of increased usage of the sky. For example, the tragic 2023 Gold Coast mid-air collision killed four people.

Recently, Auckland Council has decided to publicly notify the resource consent application concerning Rawene Avenue on the basis that effects on the environment were considered more than minor. This means that you can now have your say by submitting on the application (submissions close on 26 November, and can be made on the Auckland Council website).

Thank you to those who came to my meeting and participated in my survey about possible increased usage of Eden Park. Recently, the Government announced that the redevelopment of Eden Park is included in Schedule 2 of the Fast-Track Approvals Bill.

This means that if National’s bill passes, the Eden Park Trust can submit its redevelopment project to the Environmental Protection Authority panel, who can then refer it to an expert panel for approval. Items that could be greenlit include the development of a retractable roof, and the ability for the park to host a greater number of events. If this gets rejected by the panel, extra concerts may still be approved through the normal process.

As your local MP, I have been highly involved in working with those affected by Eden Park to develop a path forward for it to best serve our community. I’ve hosted and attended a public meeting, conducted a survey of local residents to hear their views and met with the Eden Park Trust, local iwi, local businesses and other stakeholders.

I have heard loud and clear that there’s a lot of support for increased usage of Eden Park, so long as factors like traffic management and parking are taken into account. Many have shared how their businesses are supported by events, and that they attend events and want stars like Taylor Swift to

be able to perform here. Over 80 percent of 1041 residents near Eden Park support at least a doubling of the number of concerts held at the park.

Given the high level of engagement from local residents, I am disappointed that the Government is proceeding via their Fast-Track scheme, which will bypass the chance for you to have a say. I plan on doing what I can to keep you informed about how this will affect you, including possible changes like a retractable roof.

As always, please get in touch with me or my office if I can be of any assistance to you, your business or your community.

(HELEN WHITE)  PN

helen.white@parliament.govt.nz www.labour.org.nz/HelenWhite

PONSONBY CIVIC SPACE:

THE NEW CIVIC SPACE – NOVEMBER 2024 UPDATE

We are delighted to report the development of the civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road is progressing extremely well, with significant progress being made daily.

Watching this happening through the viewing portholes has become a regular destination activity for many in the community. As the evenings lengthen and the weather improves, strolling along the strip to Ponsonby Park is already becoming an enjoyable routine. Seeing the new civic space emerge from an ugly and unloved site is exciting. The anticipation is growing as we all look forward to its completion and being able to use and enjoy the new civic space. Bravo!

The new boundary fences have been completed and the neighbours are pleased with them. They are already proving effective in reducing (construction) noise and increasing security.

The retained canopy roof is currently being strengthened, with some remedial rust removal from the existing steel structure. The new roof framing with a layer of plywood will then be installed. This is where the photovoltaic panels that generate electricity from sunlight will be sited. It is planned that a digital display, showing the amount of energy the site is generating, will be a feature once the installation is completed. The sustainability ethos of the new civic space extends to both education and implementation, with the project seeking to be an exemplar in this area.

The repurposed toilet block has been delivered to the site and now the new internal fitout work will start. Then the recladding work that will cloak the structure with vertical wooden battens will follow. This is another sustainable repurposing of an existing asset.

The drainage and underground services are underway with some hefty pipework going in, along with the 4000-litre water tank that works for both detention and irrigation.

The foundations for the canopy stairs, ramp and deck are currently being formed with the concrete pour already scheduled to be well underway by the date of publication.

Three local schools have expressed an interest in establishing and looking after a community garden on the site. After the community-led design group advocated for this desired community outcome, the design group actively enabled this in the detailed design plans the Waitematā Local Board approved at their 20 February 2024 business meeting.

Local residents are supportive of this outcome, the wellestablished Sanctuary Mahi Whenua community garden has agreed to ‘umbrella’ the project, and the inimitable Boopsie Maran from ‘Places for Good’ is coordinating the initiative.

We had hoped to provide information about the Waitematā Local Board’s decision-making for this aspect, formally requested by a deputation at the 18 June 2024 WLB business meeting. Unfortunately, we’ve not yet received either confirmation of its approval or an explanation of reasons for not approving the plans we presented. We are following this up. Stay tuned!

But for now, the work on-site is finally realising the community’s aspiration for a world-class civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road with completion scheduled for April 2025. Very soon we will begin planning the opening celebrations. Exciting!

For more information or to contact the CLDG see our website: 254ponsonbyrd.org.nz or our Facebook pages: Ponsonby Park or 254 Ponsonby Road. (JENNIFER WARD)  PN

HOMESICK FOR PONSONBY?

November rain may be average, with less sunshine. Temperatures may be average.

The first week looks cloudy and wet, whereas the second week may be dry with the highest pressures. The third week, typical of a spring full moon, promises both the heaviest rain and the most sunshine. The last week should also be changeable. The best weekend for outdoor activities may be the 16th/17th. The barometer may average around 1017mbs.

For fishermen, the highest tide is on the 17th. The best fishing bite times in the east may be around dusk of the 1st-2nd, 14th16th, and 29th-30th. Bite chances are also good around lunchtimes of the 7th-9th, and 22nd-24th.

For gardeners, planting is best on the 3rd-5th (waxing moon ascending), and pruning is best on the 17th and 18th (waning moon descending). For preserving and longer shelf-life, harvest crops or flowers around the neap tides of the 10th.and 24th.

Allow 24-hour error for all forecasting.

For future weather for any date, and the 2024 and 2025 NZ Weather Almanacs, see www.predictweather.com (KEN RING)  PN

Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News. KEN RING: WEATHER BY THE MOON

For future weather for any date, and the 2024 and 2025 NZ Weather Almanacs, see www.predictweather.com

@ LEYS LITTLE LIBRARY

Kia ora koutou

As I write this, it’s another cold day in October. But am sure the weather would have improved by the time you are reading this. Well, it should, right? Weather complaints aside, this month’s newsletter has an introduction from our new staff member and some practical information on managing your requests.

If you have visited us lately, you will know we have had quite a few changes with our staff. We now have a new manager. Who is our new manager? Ai, and she has written the following introduction:

My name is Ai and am excited to step into the role of library manager at Leys Institute Little Library. Before coming here, I worked at Central City Library where I was involved in organising events for our community. I have a deep love of books and storytelling which has shaped my journey in the library world. Outside of work, enjoy cooking and crafting. I look forward to meeting you all and hearing your stories.

One thing have noticed working at Leys, is the community’s strong literary bent. As a community you are always aware of and excited by new authors and books, you are widely read and curious. So, it comes as no surprise, our community is great at requesting books. But there are a few things that can

happen that will prevent you from picking up your requests. For instance, you are out of town when your requested items arrive and you won’t be back in time to pick them up (we keep items on the Holds Shelf for about a week). Secondly, you are sick and can’t come into the library. Or, alternatively, all your books arrive at the same time and you do not have enough time to read each book. A way to remedy these problems is to ‘freeze’ your holds. What this means is you maintain your place in the queue for an item without moving. You can do this from the Holds section of your library account using the drop-down menu, marked ‘Cancel Hold’. But don’t forget to unfreeze your requests.

Of course, if you are stuck, come into the library with your phone and we will help you. Or, alternatively, if you only need a few extra days to pick up your holds, you can call Library Connect on T: 09 377 0209 to get an extension.

Or if you want to bypass coming into the library to pick up your requests, check out our e-book collection.

That’s it for this month.

Hours Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm. Saturday 9am - 4pm. Sunday

DAVENPORTS LAW:

BALANCING SUCCESSION, WEALTH

AND FAMILY

DYNAMICS

Ken and Trish had spent many years building up their business...

It was incredibly successful, they now employed 50 staff with branches in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch. As well as their family home they had a holiday house in Taupo and owned the commercial warehouses in the three centres that their business was based. The relatively significant income the business generated also had allowed them to build up a substantial share portfolio.

Ken and Trish had three children. Their eldest son, Jack, was now general manager in the business and their middle daughter, Claire, worked in the HR department. Their youngest daughter, Penny, had worked in sales for the company but was now a stay-at-home mother with two small children.

Ken was now in his mid-70s and while he had reduced his hours over time, he was looking at stepping right back so that he and Trish could enjoy more extensive travel overseas and spend more time in the Taupo holiday home. They thought that this was a good time to go and see their lawyer to put in place some succession planning. They knew that both Jack and Claire would be keen to continue to work in the business and take a shareholding, but they also didn’t want to cut Penny out of the opportunities that the business would provide in the future as it really was a great cash generator.

Ken and Trish were also concerned about the stability of Jack’s marriage. He and his wife had been going through a rocky patch and Ken and Trish were not convinced that the marriage would last. They wanted to make sure that whatever they put in place, Jack’s inheritance from them would be protected.

Ken and Trish had set up a trust many years ago. It owned their home, holiday home and share portfolio, but the shares in the business and in the company that owned the commercial property were held in their personal names. They were not sure why they had assets outside of the trust but had just followed the advice of their lawyer who they had been

with from the very early days of the business. That lawyer was past retirement age himself and he recommended to them that they get specialist asset structuring advice for the next stage of developing their generational wealth transfer plan.

The first thing the specialist lawyer said to them was that it’s important to keep all their children in the loop if they could.

She said that she often saw families where the parents didn’t want to share their plans with their children but most often if there was transparency, it would save arguments in the future.

While Ken and Trish had thought they would like to retain all assets in the trust so that all three children could benefit from them, the lawyer suggested they have a good think about the differing positions of their children. One of them may have a large mortgage, and so debt reduction would be more important. One may have an interest in property investment and so having some assets available to be able to leverage off without involving the other two children could be important to that child. The lawyer said that she often saw problems when assets were held together rather than distributed out to children, but that any distributions could be done in a way which would protect any assets for their children and grandchildren.

She said that there would need to be some careful analysis with the business. Ken and Trish would need to decide if the efforts of Jack and Claire had been rewarded in the usual remuneration way or whether they would think that the increased value of the business was because of their efforts and so there should be some recognition of that in the value transferred to them on Ken and Trish’s deaths. Because of the cashflow of the business, it may be that all the children retained a shareholding in the business and benefitted from the cashflow, and Jack and Claire get rewarded well for their actual work in the business.

Ken and Trish had a lot to consider, but they ultimately realised the importance of discussing their plans with their children to avoid surprises and maintain family harmony. They also concluded that setting up separate structures for each child, rather than holding everything in the family trust, would better accommodate their children’s diverse needs. That way they could reduce potential conflicts and ensure that assets were managed in a way that would honour everyone’s wishes.

Protecting Family Assets For Future Generations.

Body copy here..

The protection of assets that we have worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.

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Thoughtfully navigating modern family dynamics when planning your generational wealth transfer helps prevent future conflicts and ensures everyone’s intentions are respected.

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A specialist can guide you in finding the right structure tailored to your needs. Protecting your family’s wealth for generations to come.

Contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist asset structuring and planning advice.

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JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES:

HOW ARE LAND SALES TAXED IN NZ?

(Part A of a two-part article)

There are a range of land taxing provisions in the NZ tax regime that aim to tax various aspects of land sales. While the brightline rule makes it somewhat simpler when dealing with residential land (that you have sold within two years of purchase or is it not your family home) there are increasing levels of complexity depending on whether you are speculating, subdividing or developing. Let’s explore further.

What is a land transaction?

It includes buying, selling, developing and subdividing land (residential and non-residential).

Any liability to pay tax on any gain from a property sale depends on:

The intention at purchase date (this can be a catch all and often overlooked).

Subsequent actions.

Transaction structure.

Who the vendor is associated with (are they associated to the purchaser, ie, are you selling to yourself or a relative).

What kind of purchaser are you?

Are your intentions deemed taxable? (Table below)

There is a need to consider frequency of transactions and continuity of effort.

There may be crossover between these categories (ie, speculators can still earn, own an investment property and earn rental income).

Types of taxable disposals (sales)

Intention is determined when you first acquire the property.

Your Intentions can change over time.

Acquiring the property as a ‘good investment’ does not constitute intention to sell – the same as general disposal provisions.

Sometimes only part of the land is taxable if it was acquired for one or more purposes.

Evidence may be required by IRD to show what your intention was (eg, short-term/long-term financing; how long it’s been rented or held for; was the sale due to a buyer approach).

Any profits made in relation to the points below will be taxable:

Dealing in land – bought and sold multiple properties without changing the land materially.

Developing land/subdividing – bought and sold the property and made physical changes to the land or divided it into separate sections.

Building houses – involved in the building process but not necessarily the construction itself.

Developments or subdivisions begun within 10 years

Many clients are involved in subdividing ie, main home or existing investment property). Whether a subdivision constitutes a taxable activity is subjective.

Subdivisions can be tricky and they can catch you out when you assume that because you are just subdividing a section/s from your family home, any profit from the sale of those sections shouldn’t be taxable. GST can also become a problem when undertaking a subdivision and is often overlooked by many people, this article excludes these issues.

We will explain more about this in our following article. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns regarding your Land or Property Tax issues, do call us, we are happy to talk them through with you.

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.

AUCKLAND’S HIDDEN WORLD: EXPLORING

LAVA CAVES BENEATH OUR FEET

Auckland is renowned for its stunning landscapes, volcanic cones and coastal beauty.

But beneath our bustling city lies a lesser-known wonder: lava caves. Sitting on top of roughly 200 known lava caves, Auckland’s underground world is both mysterious and magnificent. As construction projects increase and drilling tools become more sophisticated, new caves are continually being discovered, adding to the intrigue.

Recently, had the chance to crawl through one of these caves in a resident’s back garden in Mt Eden and, let me tell you, it was no walk in the park! I emerged bruised, sore and feeling as if I’d done a few rounds with Joseph Parker. In fact, I still feel the aches. But the experience left me in awe of these incredible natural features that quietly exist below our city.

The adventure was both exhilarating and physically demanding. I can now officially claim the dubious honour of squeezing my body through a foot-high lava tube and crawling what felt like an eternity in the pitch-black darkness, wriggling on my stomach. Not everyone in our group could do it, and that’s perfectly fine – it was incredibly claustrophobic.

Auckland’s growth is rapid and, as we build new infrastructure, it’s vital that we protect our underground heritage.

Leading the charge in this effort is DEVORA (Determining Volcanic Risk in Auckland), a collaborative research project aimed at understanding volcanic risks and preserving Auckland’s geological features. With DEVORA’s expertise, we’re gaining valuable insights into the underground networks of lava caves, allowing us to pinpoint their locations with greater accuracy.

Auckland’s volcanic past has given us a city built on ancient flows of lava. While these hidden caves might seem distant from everyday life, they hold significant scientific, cultural and environmental importance. Protecting them is not just a matter of geological preservation but also of ensuring that Auckland’s development remains sustainable and respectful of our natural heritage.

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, Level 1, One Jervois Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 361 6701, www.johnstonassociates.co.nz

At times, it felt like the cave was pressing in on all sides. The particular tube we navigated is known as the 'cheese grater' and for good reason. Crawling through it was like inching your way across sharp coral. By the time we emerged, I had a few well-earned ‘ouchies' as battle scars.

This adventure, by the way, wasn’t just a thrill-seeking escapade. As part of a larger effort in conjunction with the Earthquake Commission (EQC), we are working to create a more comprehensive map of Auckland’s lava cave locations. The goal is to ensure that future developments can happen safely without damaging these unique geological features.

In my role as Deputy Mayor, I’ve experienced a wide range of activities, from attending well-dressed functions to daring underground explorations. And while navigating lava tubes wasn’t something ever expected to do, it was a reminder of how remarkable our city’s landscape truly is – both above and below ground.

As Auckland continues to grow and evolve, we must remain conscious of these hidden wonders beneath our feet. They are part of what makes our city so unique, and with the efforts of DEVORA and EQC, we can ensure they are preserved for generations to come.

DESLEY SIMPSON, Deputy Mayor of Auckland www.desleysimpson.co.nz

DESLEY SIMPSON:

FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

With summer on the horizon, Sara Bennett and Andrew Withell have returned to Grey Lynn Farmers Market with their delicious tropical fruit.

Have you always been farmers?

Not at all. Andrew headed up the Art and Design School at AUT and I was a consultant, supporting social good businesses. My PhD was in Community Health.

What prompted the change?

We were in Waipu over the first Covid lockdown and it forced us to rethink our lives. We knew that we wanted to grow something that was a positive response to climate change and was also good for people. We landed on papaya and it has gone from there.

You call yourselves Aotearoa Grown

Yes – it’s not just the fruit, it’s also us. Being of this place, Aotearoa, holds us accountable as kaitiaki, requiring us to operate with aroha and respect for the whenua and our community.

What does that mean for the way you farm?

We follow permaculture and syntropic agroforestry principles. We think about everything in layers, including layers across time, planting a diverse range of crops together to mimic the way they might grow in their original ecosystems. Everything is spray-free — luckily the pests that predate these crops in the tropics are not in New Zealand.

What are you growing in that diverse mix?

Papaya is our hero fruit. We also grow pineapple, sugar cane, passionfruit and nine varieties of bananas — all grown on our farm in Waipu.

How is papaya good for people?

As well as being a delicious treat, it is a super food for the gut biome. One of our most humbling and affirming moments at the market was when a customer with digestive problems told us that our papaya had changed her life.

How do you measure the nutritional value of the fruit?

We have worked with some independent labs, including Callaghan Innovation, to test the nutrient profiles of our fruit. Tests revealed our fruit is full of positive nutrients including: polyphenols, micro enzymes and mood enhancers.

Does your papaya evoke nostalgic memories for some customers?

Definitely. When word got out that we have locally grown papaya, people made a beeline for the market. We knew that

we grow good papaya when a customer, with tears in their eyes, told us that “it tastes like home.”

Sugar cane is also more common in tropical parts of the world

It grows more slowly here than in the tropics, but it grows well. We crush the cane at the market so people can experience fresh juice – it’s full of minerals and vitamins that aid digestion. The balance of electrolytes is excellent as a post exercise drink. And, of course, it tastes delicious. We’re always delighted when people who grew up in sugar cane regions tell us that it tastes just like it does at home – like papaya, sugar cane can be a nostalgic experience.

How is Grey Lynn Farmers Market working for you?

The values and ethics of the market fit closely with ours, and we love being able to connect directly to customers. It’s great to provide so many people access to our fruit — we know that some travel across Auckland to get our papaya.

What new things have you got planned?

We’ve collaborated with a Waipu goat farmer who makes award-winning yoghurt (Belle Chèvre Creamery), to create a yoghurt that is infused with tropical fruit from our farm. And we have worked with Fresh As to produce dehydrated papaya and banana – freeze-drying maintains 97% of the nutrient profile. Look out for them at the market.  PN

www.aotearoagrown.co.nz www.greylynnfarmersmarket.co.nz

BUSTLE – THE POS THAT HELPS YOU DELIVER GREAT HOSPITALITY

This month, we introduce Bustle, the Point of Sale (POS) software and management solution behind many of Ponsonby’s top cafes.

If you’ve seen your favourite barista enter your coffee order on an iPad, chances are it’s Bustle. This crowd favourite is making waves in New Zealand, Australia and the UK’s growing coffee scene.

What inspired Bustle?

Jonny McKenzie founded Bustle while managing his four hospitality venues in Wellington. Frustrated by outdated systems and manual reports, he sought a solution that would improve control, streamline operations and enhance profitability. Bustle evolved from a coffee-ordering app to a powerful POS designed to help venue owners like Jonny thrive.

Are you nationwide and global?

Yes, Bustle is growing worldwide, with a special focus on the UK. We’re proud to partner with Kiwi-founded coffee suppliers like Climpson & Son and Allpress, especially in the UK’s specialty coffee sector.

Do you see your clients as partners?

Absolutely. We designed Bustle to empower hospitality entrepreneurs by simplifying orders and providing insights into their business from anywhere. Tell us about the team behind Bustle. We’re a diverse group with experience in hospitality, software and marketing. Our team understands the unique challenges of the industry and is dedicated to making it easier for operators to succeed and serve local communities. Recently, Bustle hosted an event at Nami Record Bar in Ponsonby for customers to connect, share tips and learn how to help their businesses thrive.

Anything else to share?

Yes – if you’re in hospitality and tired of handing over hardearned margins to giants like Doordash and Ubereats, try our Bustle Online product. It keeps profits local and supports your business to reach a wider audience. Reach out to the team at www.heybustle.com

KNOCKOUTS

Here’s some ab fab wines to sample and stock up for the looming holiday season. Cheers.

Akarua Bannockburn Central Otago Dry Riesling 2023 - $30

Bone dry, with beeswax, lemon squash citrus, bergamot and pink grapefruit. Flinty dry mineral finish. Available: Glengarry, blackmarket.co.nz

Akarua Bannockburn Central Otago Pinot Gris 2024 - $30

Also in a bone dry style. 13.5% ABV, poached pear, honeysuckle, tropical fruit and a hint of spice. Tangy, yeasty dry finish. Available: Glengarry, akarua.com

Rimapere Baron Edmond de Rothschild Plot 101

Marlborough Sauvignon 2023 - $45

Very approachable for the sav averse (eg, me). Aged on yeast lees and 50% barrel fermented. Ripe gooseberry and passionfruit, grapefruit citrus, herbal mid palate. Generous and creamy with a medium acid lengthy finish. Available: akarua.com

Humming Wire Wairarapa Pinot Noir 2023 - $16

5 stars. From Johner Estate, an absolute bargain. Buy before I do! Very smoky, ripe and juicy with umami soy and tar. Ripe blackberry, plum and dark berry fruits. Medium tannic lengthy finish. Available: Dhall & Nash, johner-estate.com

Akarua Bannockburn Central Otago Rosé 2023 - $36

Dry, with hints of red berry fruit, cranberry and toffee apple. Lengthy dry finish. Available: Glengarry and widely.

Santa Ana Reserve Malbec Argentina 2022 - $23

Earthy and savoury, with black tea, umami soy sauce, liquorice, spiced plum and lengthy medium tannic finish. Available: Dhall & Nash, Pt Chev Organic Wines, blackmarket.co.nz

Mollydooker The Boxer McLaren Vale Shiraz 2022 - $41

Absolute classic big ‘n’ bold knockout Aussie shiraz. Hugely ripe and generous, with blackcurrant, boysenberry and

spiced plum compote. 15.5% ABV. Finishes long and strong with liquorice, white pepper, a hint of eucalyptus and vanillin oak. Available: Dhall & Nash, blackmarket.co.nz

No 1 Family Assemblé - $36

5 stars. Total bargain. Creamy and seamless, with a frothy mousse. One of my fave bubblies for any occasion, ie, a day with a Y in it. Apple sauce, grapefruit marmalade, plus yeasty croissant from extended lees ageing. Crisp, tangy mineral finish. Superb. Stock up for Xmas and New Year!

No 1 Family Rosé NV - $49

100% pinot noir predominant rosé. Dry, yeasty and tangy, with cherry almond, creamy mid-palate and a hint of liquorice and anise. Lengthy dry finish.

No 1 Family Cuvée NV - $40

Lively and crisp, with yeasty, tangy brioche and a creamy frothy mousse. Lime citrus, a hint of canned peach and nectarine. Spent 18 months resting on yeast residue. Lengthy tangy finish.

No 1 Family Reserve Blanc de Blanc NV - $98

100% chardonnay in a bone dry and crisp style. Six and half years resting on yeast lees. Pale gold in the glass. Superbly yeasty and creamy, with almond brioche, flinty minerality and lime citrus. Clean and crisp long, tangy yeasty finish. Just 1680 bottles produced.

No 1 Family Estate Reine Cuvée Reserve NV - $63

No1 Reine Cuvée is a tribute to the family’s beloved mother and Mémère, Reine Vautrelle Le Brun. Gorgeous wine. Pale gold, with yeasty bread dough aromas. Made with the classic chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot meuniere blend. Elegant and just nudging dry with heaps of yeasty croissant, canned peach, orange marmalade, Manuka honey, straw and toffee. Available: Glengarry, no1familyestate.co.nz (PHIL PARKER)  PN

www.finewinetours.co.nz phil.parker@xtra.co.nz

Your host, Phil Parker, wine writer

· Boutique tours to Waiheke Island & Kumeu

· Bespoke Fun Wine quizzes by arrangement

E: phil.parker@xtra.co.nz www.finewinetours.co.nz

LYZADIE DESIGN STUDIO

Lyzadie Renault is a New Zealand artist and archidesigner with Pacifica and French heritage.

Born to a French father and Melanesian mother, her upbringing was shaped by two distinct cultures. However, her journey to find where she truly belongs has been unexpected. As a child, Lyzadie spent her holidays in her mother’s village in houses with earthen floors and walls, her curiosity piqued by the materials around her. This connection to natural elements now influences her work. Today, she creates luxury furniture and design pieces using timeless forms, natural materials and exquisite craftsmanship to tell stories through her creations. Lyzadie founded LyZadie Design Studio in Auckland, where she combines New Zealand's natural beauty with a deep commitment to sustainability. Each piece she designs reflects her dedication to crafting functional art while promoting responsibility and giving it back to the community. Her materials are often sourced locally with an emphasis on rescuing, recycling and reusing.

Trained as an architect in New Zealand and at the Architectural Association in England, Lyzadie’s passion lies in creating designs that make people feel connected to the heart of the materials and the story behind each piece. She’s also an advocate for supporting New Zealand made products and the role of women in design, frequently speaking at events and being chosen as a Women to Watch for 2024. She has become a beacon of innovative design in New Zealand, setting new standards in the world of luxury furniture.

As a woman-led studio, LyZadie Design Studio combines the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty with a deep commitment to social and environmental responsibility, creating one-of-a-kind pieces that serve as both functional art and meaningful contributions to a greater cause. The creations are bespoke furniture and lighting with some beautifully unique homeware. Each piece is meticulously crafted to reflect the studio’s core values: exceptional design, sustainability and giving back to the community. Each design is inspired by New Zealand’s landscape, culture and heritage, making each piece not only beautiful but also deeply connected to the environment and people. "We believe that luxury should not only be about aesthetics but also about responsibility," says Lyzadie Renault, Founder and Designer at LyZadie Design Studio.

"Our clients value the uniqueness of our pieces, knowing that each item they acquire is thoughtfully designed and crafted with purpose. This is what sets us apart in the high-end

market." Interior designers and architects can trust LyZadie Design Studio to deliver not only distinctive designs, but also a seamless integration of art and functionality. The studio's pieces are perfect for those who want to offer their clients something truly unique – a piece that tells a story, stands out and embodies the spirit of New Zealand. As a woman architect and furniture designer, Lyzadie is passionate about showcasing New Zealand’s design identity both locally and internationally.

With Lyzadie’s design work, she says it’s simple – she wants to make people “feel alive, feel impassioned, feel the heart of the materials on display, feel the dedication to excellence in each piece.” Because this work is all about passion, a passion for design and for telling a story.

LyZadie Design is making waves in the Ponsonby scene with its latest venture, the luxury development known as Twenty One. This exciting project represents a bold step into the highend market, showcasing Lyzadie’s commitment to elegance and innovation. Each residence is thoughtfully crafted to harmonize modern aesthetics with functional living, ensuring that every space feels both luxurious and inviting. With a focus on exceptional design and quality materials, Twenty

One sets a new standard for upscale living in the vibrant heart of Ponsonby. This development promises to elevate the community while providing future homeowners with a truly unparalleled living experience.

lyzadiedesignstudio.com

GREAT NORTH ROAD CONSTRUCTION DELAYED

Auckland Transport is letting us know that work will start a little later than originally anticipated on the Great North Road Improvements project.

"The tender is nearly closed and once a construction partner is onboard, we can confirm the timing, staging and work details so you know what to expect when we get underway. A focus for us is planning the work and traffic management to keep disruption to a minimum for everyone. We’ll work together with businesses, building managers and owners to help ensure construction runs as smoothly as possible.

"We shared the design plans earlier this year – if you haven’t seen them, you can have a look on the project webpage here."

Parking

"As you may be aware, we’ve been looking at a mix of time restricted and paid parking to provide flexibility for people and to make it easier to find a car park in the area. This includes parking on Great North Road and at the top of side streets. We will share our plans for your feedback once we have completed our review."

Contact us

If you have any questions about this project, please contact us by:

Email: projects@at.govt.nz

Phone: T: 09 930 5090

SIGN UP TO WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO THE GOLD

SIGN UP to receive our latest travel deals and you’ll be in the draw to win! Our Prize for two includes:

• Return Economy ‘The Works’ flights from Auckland to the Gold Coast flying Air New Zealand

• 4 nights axccommodation at the 4.5 star Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise

• Return Airport Transfers

• Daily Breakfast

*T&Cs Apply

YOUR PERSONAL WELLNESS JOURNEY WITH TRADITIONAL THAI MASSAGE

People often ask me why I’m so passionate about traditional Thai massage.

For me, it’s much more than just a massage — it’s a profound journey toward personal wellbeing, one that has been passed down through generations in Thailand. I’m proud to bring this ancient healing art to Auckland, where you can experience its remarkable benefits in a setting of modern luxury.

A Tradition of Healing

Traditional Thai massage is not just about relaxation, it’s about healing. For over 2500 years, Thai massage has been used to restore balance in the body by working along the sen lines — energy pathways that carry life force throughout the body. By using a combination of acupressure, deep stretching and rhythmic movements, this practice helps release blockages, reducing pain and restoring your body’s natural flow of energy. It’s a powerful therapy designed to heal from within and I’m committed to offering this transformative experience to our guests at Sa-Ni.

Tailored to You

One of the things I emphasise at Sa-Ni is personalisation. Each person’s wellness journey is unique, each individual brings their own story and set of needs. That’s why therapeutic Thai massage takes the time to understand what you’re looking for — whether it’s relief from muscle tension after a long week or simply a moment to unwind. Our highly trained therapists are skilled in the art of traditional Thai massage and will tailor your session to ensure it aligns with your body’s needs.

Engage All Your Senses

Your wellness experience starts the moment you walk through our doors. We’ve created an environment designed to calm the mind and soothe the senses. The gentle fragrance of essential

oils fills the air, soft lighting creates a serene ambience and peaceful music sets the tone for relaxation. We believe that every element of your visit should contribute to your overall wellbeing.

During your massage, you’ll feel the expert touch of our therapists as they work to release tension, stretch muscles and realign your body’s energy. The sensations you experience are deeply rejuvenating, helping you feel more connected to your body and at peace in your mind.

Health Beyond Relaxation

The beauty of traditional Thai massage lies in its ability to offer so much more than just relaxation. Yes, you’ll leave feeling deeply refreshed, but the benefits extend far beyond that. Thai massage can improve flexibility, increase circulation and reduce stress. It helps your body heal itself by promoting the flow of energy and reducing tension in both muscles and joints. Over time, with regular sessions, you’ll notice improvements in your overall health both physically and mentally.

A Wellness Journey Awaits You

My goal, for Sa-Ni, is to create a space where you can reconnect with yourself through the powerful, ancient techniques of Thai massage. This is your time — to relax, to heal and to experience true wellbeing. invite you to begin your personal wellness journey with us today. We’re here to help you feel better, inside and out, in a way that honours the rich tradition of Thai healing.

SA-NI MASSAGE AND WELLNESS CENTRE, 8 Upper Queen Street, T: 09 320 1742, www.sa-ni.co.nz

Breathe in Inhale relaxation and luxury, a new sensory experience.

Breathe out Unwind.

Breathe in

A sophisticated luxury spa and legendary Thai massage experience.

Breathe out

Let everything slip away.

Breathe in

This is that Sa-Ni feeling. Try the full effect for yourself.

Sarisa Nasinprom

Co-founder and Director, Sa-Ni Massage and Spa

AYURVEDA – THE ART OF LIVING WELL

Get your Spring Glow with new Ayurvedic Facials.

We recently added facials to our Ayurveda New Zealand treatment menu and are very excited to offer an authentic and rejuvenating experience tailored to your skin type. In Ayurveda, skin types are classified based on the three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Vata skin is typically dry, rough and thin. It may be prone to flakiness and shows signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles more quickly. Hydrating oils and creams, gentle exfoliation and warm, nourishing foods help balance a typical Vata skin.

Pitta skin is usually sensitive, warm and has a tendency towards oiliness and breakouts. It often has a reddish or flushed appearance and can be prone to conditions like rashes, acne and inflammation. Cooling and soothing products, along with a diet rich in cooling foods like cucumber and mintu can help balance a typical Pitta skin.

Kapha skin is usually thick, oily and smooth. It can have a healthy glow but may be prone to clogged pores and acne due to excess oil production and sluggishness. Light, clarifying skin care products and a diet that includes bitter and astringent foods like apples and quinoa can help balance a typical Kapha skin.

Understanding your skin type according to Ayurvedic doshas guides the selection of optimal skincare products as well as making personal lifestyle and diet choices for maintaining a healthy glow.

At our Ayurveda New Zealand clinic in Grey Lynn, an experienced and qualified therapist will start with a thorough assessment of your skin prior to the treatment to determine your dosha specific skin type and help select the most suitable Ayurvedic facial treatment plan.

Each facial begins with a deep cleansing of the face and neck, followed by a scrub with an Ayurvedic herbal paste to exfoliate the skin.

Vital marma points on the face and neck will be massaged with a dosha specific oil to increase energy flow, remove blockages and help to relax facial muscles for a youthful appearance.

Herbal infused steam with organic essential oils will be applied to open the pores for best absorption of the Ayurvedic face pack and medicated oils.

Our Rose facial with its toning and anti-ageing effect is the perfect choice for sensitive and dry skin, while the Navara facial is particularily effective for acne, hyperpigmentation and any skin discolourations.

During the Navara facial, rice filled poultices are applied and gently massaged on face and neck.

All our Ayurvedic products are certified organic and freshly made to achieve best results on the skin.

We have gift vouchers available if you’d like to treat someone special. Use discount code PONSONBY NEWS to get 15% off all facials during the month of November. (SARITA SOLVIG BLANKENBURG)  PN

NEW CRYSTAL JEWELLERY COLLECTION

Take a look at the new range of crystal bracelets now in-store at ASH&STONE.

Each bracelet is unique with an individually made crystal charm. As each crystal bracelet is a one-off, the range changes weekly.

Head over to ASH&STONE at 3 Redmond Street, Ponsonby to take a look or visit ashandstone.online

Almandine garnet

Black tourmaline crystal

Freshwater pearl & apatite crystal

Rhodonite crystal

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO JOIN THE SUSTAINABILITY PARTY

The countdown to summer is on along with the festive barbecues, get togethers and picnics that come with it.

This year, don’t detract from the joy of having fun with friends by stuffing bin liners full of plastic plates and cups. Here’s why partying sustainably might be easier than you think.

Silicone bakeware is everyone’s friend It’s out with greaseproof paper and tin foil and in with silicone muffin trays and baking sheets. Silicone is heat durable, non stick, reusable and does not shed microplastics. Just be careful to keep your bakeware away from sharp utensils. Any silicone that’s reached the end of its life can be dropped to ecostore’s shop at 1 Scotland Street, to be sent off for recycling with their friends at Munch Cupboard.

TIP: If you let your goodies cool on silicone baking sheets, they won’t crisp up. Transfer anything you want to crunch onto a wire rack straight away.

Single-use has had its day

Understandably, most people don’t feel great about using single-use plastics – especially when they can’t be recycled. Why not minimise the need for crockery and cutlery by serving finger foods that can be served on real plates? And for drinks, opt for cans instead of big bottles to share. Not only is aluminium one of the easiest materials to recycle, cans eliminate the need for cups altogether. And if you’re going to use single-use napkins, opt for sustainable materials like bamboo and sugarcane.

TIP: Look for pretty second-hand china and old fashioned serving utensils in your local op shop and then wash and store your unique party ware for next time.

Clean-ups can be ecofriendly too If you’ve just hosted the perfect planet-friendly party, the last thing you want to do is spray harmful chemicals around afterwards. We like ecostore’s Multi-purpose Cleaner to wipe down any surfaces, because it’s plant and mineral based and the bottle can be refilled with a concentrate you water down yourself at home.

TIP: Invest in your own sustainable cleaning pack. Consider washable copper cloths for pots and pans, wooden dish brushes and compostable dish cloths.

The ultimate sustainable summer party Ecostore is having its very own party, from 10am on November 24 at the shop at 1 Scotland Street in Freemans Bay.

Join in the fun to explore great deals on a wide range of sustainable products. There’ll be face painters, popcorn, exclusive deals on products and the opportunity to create your own ecostore label (just in time for Christmas gifting).

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

SKINTOPIA – YOUR SANCTUARY FOR A SKIN TRANSFORMATION

Skintopia is more than just a skin clinic, it's a haven where skin health and rejuvenation take centre stage.

They aim for a visible difference after just one treatment and, with over 100 5-star reviews on Google, they are living up to their promises. Skintopia offers convenient locations in Herne Bay, Mt Eden and Takapuna, making it easy for Aucklanders to find a location that suits their needs.

At Skintopia, every skin is unique with its own set of needs and challenges. The team of dedicated Professional Skin Therapists is committed to providing personalised care tailored to your individual requirements. They take a holistic approach to skin health, addressing both the external and internal factors that contribute to your skin's appearance.

What sets Skintopia apart?

Personalised Skin Analysis: Experience a thorough skin analysis that goes beyond surface-level observations. They delve deep into your skin's history, lifestyle and concerns to create a customised treatment plan that delivers optimal results.

Advanced Treatment Technologies: Skintopia invests in the skin treatment technologies to ensure you receive the most effective and innovative care. From rejuvenating facials to targeted skin concerns, treatments are designed to deliver visible improvements.

Commitment to Results: The team at Skintopia is passionate about achieving exceptional results for every client.

Luxurious and Relaxing Environment: The salon is intentionally designed to provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy a moment of self care as the Professional Skin Therapists work their magic on your skin.

Ready to take your skin health to the next level? Skintopia boasts a membership programme designed to help clients achieve their skincare goals through personalised ongoing care. Its Cult Skin Memberships offer four tiers to cater to different needs and budgets, with starting prices at $20.06 per week. The programme focuses on long-term results with 12-month memberships that include monthly treatments, membership benefits including discounts on additional services and a personalised treatment schedule.

Looking for Glass Skin this Summer?

As the festive season approaches, Skintopia introduces its latest offering: LuminFusion. This innovative treatment is perfect for those seeking a radiant complexion just in time for the holidays. LuminFusion combines the power of LED light therapy and NanoInfusion to deliver glowing, luminous skin.

This treatment is ideal for addressing concerns like dullness, uneven tone and fine lines. You’ll be supercharging your skin’s smoothness and vibrancy with no downtime. With LuminFusion, you can confidently step into the holiday festivities with a refreshed and rejuvenated complexion.

Book your appointment today and let Skintopia help you unlock your skin's full potential. Receive $40 off your first Skin Treatment, simply mention that you saw this offer in the Ponsonby News!*

Skintopia Herne Bay

Unit 3 Jervois Apartments, 165-167 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, T: 09 360 0811

Skintopia Mt Eden 373 Dominion Road, Mount Eden, T: 09 630 7133

Skintopia Takapuna Ground Floor, Partner's Life Building, 33-45 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, T: 09 486 6224

www.skintopia.co.nz

*Offer valid for new clients only. T's&C's apply

OF THE PLANET

The Station Boutique owner Tina Lalande says her experience in retail, which spans more than 30 years, along with her focus on caring for the environment, has allowed her to make well-informed choices when it comes to product offerings.

For Tina, the focus is stocking natural products and garments made with natural fabrics. She believes it’s a better choice for one’s health and for the health of the planet. With a range of skin/body care products by Nudi Point in Kaitaia, all are natural, and a couple are organic. Nudi Point founder and owner Blair Coats says, the range covers skin care for all ages and skin types from medicinal oils to moisturising body butters.

The Station Boutique is also a proud stockist of Veramay women’s fashion wear. Veramay is designed and made in Italy using only superior quality natural fabrics like linen, silk and viscose which are all milled in Italy. These fabrics feature stunning patterns with vibrant colours. Their linen designs feature comfortable everyday wear and include colours that mix and match easily. Veramay silk wear is stunningly elegant, the colours are beautiful and the designs are perfect for all sizes 10 to 18. Because silk is very shear, Veramay has included underlays in the garments using viscose to insure comfort and style.

Tina says, “I am excited about the Veramay clothing, as it is quality and all garments in the range come at very affordable prices.”

Shop online at www.inatthestation.co.nz and redeem your SAVE20 coupon’ to get your 20% discount.

Or when in Rawene, redeem your ‘SAVE20 coupon’ in store. www.inatthestation.co.nz

HELENE RAVLICH:

DESIGNING AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE FOR SUMMER

When the temperature starts to rise, many of us who welcome the arrival of warmer weather invariably turn our focus to beautifying our home’s outdoor spaces – big or small.

It’s a very personal process and definitely the opportunity to expand your indoor style beyond the four walls of your house or apartment, but it’s a good idea to be prepared before jumping on in.

First and foremost, think about how you will use your outdoor living area. One of the best ways to envision your alfresco floor plan is to first think of how you intend to use the space, then make a list of what you would need in the area to accomplish those activities and then plan from there. The number one piece of advice from many designers on how to make your outdoor space great is focusing your attention on making one big statement around a seating area. Perhaps

centre your seating arrangement with views either toward the house or apartment, or outwards, toward the surrounding views, which instantly activates the space and gives guests a beautiful vista to enjoy.

The best way to encourage use of outdoor spaces is to create beautiful and comfortable spots that you’ll want to sit back, relax and enjoy spending time in. However, before you splash out on the likes of premium barbecues and luxe outdoor fireplaces, make comfy seating and set dressing with carefully selected outdoor accessories a priority. If there’s somewhere comfortable to sit and you’re surrounded by beautiful things, you’ll feel more inclined to stay outside long enough to justify

splashing out on those other big-ticket items. And try thinking about pieces that offer flexibility to accommodate varying numbers of people and ones that will work for formal and informal gatherings.

Lastly, while quality is always important when buying any furniture, it’s even more critical with outdoor furniture that will be exposed to the extremes of sun, rain and wind. There have been huge advances in fabric technology and materials since the patio sets of yore, so do your research, explore some local design houses and start getting creative.

FIND YOUR LIGHT

Whether it’s candles, lanterns or the latest outdoor fittings, lighting never fails to add an extra dimension to patio and garden spaces. And these days, outdoor lighting is no longer just about practicalities, it’s a must have aesthetic feature for any home.

It may not be noticeable during the day, but come nightfall, outdoor lighting is the pièce de résistance of your home's exterior. From decorative purposes like highlighting architecture and casting a glow around landscape features, to practical purposes like increasing safety and lighting up a stairway, there are plenty of ways to improve your outdoor spaces with lighting that don’t have to break the bank.

Decorative lanterns, vintage or new, are one of the easiest and most attractive ways to add lighting to an outdoor space. Cluster them on a dining table, group them together

around the edges of the space or line them up on a wall — the possibilities are endless. The best part? You can swap out real wax candles for LED candles or even opt for solar-powered to keep things safe.

You may also like to think about investing in solar lighting, which is rapidly improving in look and functionality, or something more whimsical like resin lamps if you don’t have inquisitive pets or little ones around that may be prone to causing havoc when unattended.

ADD AN OTTOMAN

A simple piece of furniture that was once added as an afterthought, the classic ottoman has come a long way. And in terms of today’s design aesthetic, the humble ottoman can be used as everything from a statement piece to extra seating or a coffee table, making it the perfect addition to any outdoor seating collection. From small ones to oversized ones, ottomans are the hidden gem that may be missing from your outdoor space and there are a plethora of beautiful options out there to suit any aesthetic.

Designed and made in France, Ligne Roset’s outdoor ottomans are specially crafted to remain completely watertight and are upholstered in Swiss-made Stamskin synthetic hide – a material designed to withstand commercial and marine upholstery applications. They are a stylish nod to the traditional Moroccanstyle ottoman but with a thoroughly contemporary vibe. Pop into their Grey Lynn showroom for a look and you just may find yourself grabbing one, or even a pair, to put by your pool.

Ligne Roset’s outdoor ottomans

TAKE SHELTER

When it comes to summertime and enjoying the sun, in Aotearoa it never hurts to take extra precautions to stay protected from our harsh rays and that goes beyond your preferred SPF formula and a hat.

A key element of every functional outdoor living space is shade and that’s where a quality sun umbrella for your patio, garden or outdoor entertainment area that comes with added UV protection is essential.

The number one reason people choose to avoid their outdoor ‘room’ is lack of shelter from the heat and rain. An outdoor shade umbrella will provide a super stylish and impressive addition to your favourite summertime space as well as protect against the sun's harmful rays. From the most dramatic and inviting cantilever umbrella to the simple yet always chic patio umbrella, there’s a shade option for spaces big and small out there ready to be embraced.

THE STATEMENT SIDE TABLE

A cleverly chosen side table will not just prove convenient, but elevate your style when planning the ultimate outdoor oasis. Ligne Roset has some beautiful contemporary options in their showroom right now, as does the always popular Studio Italia. In addition, Kayu Studio, the popular interiors destination, recently opened an expansive new showroom on Westmoreland Street in Grey Lynn, right by Farro. Visitors to the beautifully designed, neutral-toned showroom can experience Kayu’s signature collections like the bestselling Glide and new Engineered Stone Collections, and their pick of side and occasional tables – both indoor and outdoor friendly options – are a joy to behold. I love that all Kayu Studio's pieces are crafted with fair trade practices, whether from the company’s in-house brand or the talented makers they stock online and in-store. (HELENE RAVLICH)  PN

STYLE WITH PURPOSE:

NEW ZEALAND DESIGNERS JOIN FORCES FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH

This summer, Breast Cancer Cure has teamed up with 18 of New Zealand’s leading fashion designers for the biggest 'Tees for a Cure' campaign yet.

Among the designers involved are iconic Ponsonby designers moochi, TUESDAY, Karen Walker, Kathryn Wilson and STORM, each creating exclusive tee designs for the campaign.

“We are all impacted by breast cancer in some way during our lives. Everyone has a deep and personal story and being able to support the cause is important to us. Our tee design serves as both a visual celebration and a powerful statement. It highlights the importance of unity and diversity, offering a hopeful reminder that together, we can make a difference.” moochi

The campaign offers a stylish way to give back, with all proceeds funding vital breast cancer research in New Zealand. These tees, ranging from bold statements, classic looks or something playful, make thoughtful Christmas gifts and must-have summer wardrobe pieces.

"Breast Cancer Cure has been Tuesday’s chosen charity for many years now, and collaborating with them on the Tees for a Cure campaign is a highlight in our calendar. The positive energy this campaign brings is a joy to be involved in; you really can feel it through the imagery they capture. And of course, the results are truly life changing.

I’m incredibly proud of our partnership and being able to design something specially for this cause always feels like the best work we can do," says Biddie Cooksley, Tuesday Founder and Designer.

Breast cancer impacts an overwhelming number of New Zealanders, with two lives lost to the disease every day and a new diagnosis occurring every two to three hours. Every contribution makes a difference in the battle against breast cancer, and purchasing these tees is a meaningful yet simple way to support the cause.

Deborah Caldwell - STORM

“This campaign brings together fashion and purpose,” says Sonja de Mari, Breast Cancer Cure CEO. “By purchasing a tee, you’re directly supporting crucial breast cancer research."

The designers supporting this year's campaign are: Bendon, COOP, Cooper, Curate, Federation, Hailwood, Karen Walker, Kathryn Wilson, Kowtow, moochi, NYNE, Repertoire, Stella + Gemma, STORM, Taylor, Trelise Cooper, TUESDAY, and Yvonne Bennetti.

Tees are available for pre-order until November 10, 2024 with delivery in mid-December. Get ready to support fashion with a purpose!

Pre-order your favourite design today: www.breastcancercure.org.nz/teesforacure

Karen Walker

INSPIRED BY NATURE

Explore Lahood’s New Summer Showroom Displays.

Lahood®Window Furnishings is excited to introduce its Inspired by Nature showroom displays for summer 2024/25.

The carefully curated fabric selection is designed to evoke the beauty of the natural world, with themes inspired by coastal landscapes and lush greenery. Discover the calming coastal and cliff-inspired designs of Hemptech’s Sea Urchin, Sea Drift and Iceland Rocks sheers, the gently swaying grasses of Villa Nova’s Kishi cotton blend and the vibrant foliage patterns of Warwick’s Frida Fiesta and Clarke & Clarke’s Habitat Mineral fabrics.

ECO-FRIENDLY FABRICS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

In keeping with the nature theme, most of the new showroom displays feature sustainable or recycled fabrics and are part of the Lahood Eco-Friendly Fabric Range. Centre stage in the displays is New Zealand brand Hemptech known for its strong environmental focus, using only natural materials like hemp and linen, which have a softer impact on the environment. Villa Nova’s Kishi is an ethereal cotton-blend fabric that holds Oeko-Tex 100 certification, ensuring it meets rigorous environmental standards and The Textile Company’s Lucia Delft sheer is made from over 50% recycled plastic. Lahood’s Eco-Friendly Fabric range also includes other recycled options like Warwick’s Renew, Zepel’s Eco Collection, James Dunlop’s Kumo Recycled, Clarke & Clarke’s Levanto Sheers and Maurice Kain’s Recycled Collections.

SUPPORTING THE ENVIRONMENT

To help shine a spotlight on nature and the environment, Lahood is partnering with the Kaipātiki Project and donating $10 for every new subscriber to their newsletter. The donation will fund a native plant for the project’s bush regeneration efforts in Auckland and each subscriber will receive a certificate for their tree, plus the option to plant it in the future if they wish.

Villa Nova Kishi

Visit Lahood’s showroom at 104 Mt Eden Road to experience the Inspired by Nature displays, or explore these beautiful fabrics in the comfort of your home by booking a free in-home consultation at lahood.co.nz

Elegance Materialised

For over 40 years Lahood has been the name behind transformational window furnishing solutions. Lahood combines their expertise in design, colour and texture to transform rooms, create mood and enhance people’s lives with a touch of elegance.

Hemptech Rings Collection

Sambonet Taste PVD Vintage Cutlery

Spiegelau Perfect Serve Glassware WMF Fusiontec Rose Casserole Philippi Louisiana Lanterns

Philippi Leaf Bowls

Peugeot Line Dark S &

Sambonet Bamboo Wine Cooler Lodge Cast Iron Burger Press

BRINGING THE FUNNY FOR 27 YEARS!

Come the end of November, over at 51 Mackelvie Street in the Covert Theatre, The Improv Bandits achieve a significant milestone.

They’re celebrating 27 years of bringing the funny. Hailed as New Zealand’s most successful improvised comedy act, The Improv Bandits have delighted local and international audiences alike, with their fast paced, high-energy show. And on Friday and Saturday 29 and 30 November, they’ll treat audiences to a special birthday show where all the Bandits will take to the stage in what promises to be a rollercoaster ride of hilarity.

The Improv Bandits are made up of seven Auckland members: CJ Le Mon, Edith Fumarola, Mark Scott, Michael Fletcher, Paul Paice, Tom Kane and founding member Wade Jackson. Jackson is also the founder of the Covert Theatre where the Bandits have made their home.

“I started The Improv Bandits in November 1997 straight after I finished Drama School,” says Wade Jackson. “The only other improv group in town wouldn’t let me play and that’s why we called ourselves the Bandits as we were the young renegades of improv comedy, breaking tradition and doing our own thing. It’s funny that we’re now the golden oldies of improv comedy.”

In 27 years, The Improv Bandits have performed on four continents, won a world championship at the Chicago Improv Festival and have performed with the TV stars of Whose Line Is It Anyway? They have forged a reputation as being masters

of their craft and they pass this knowledge on teaching workshops and classes at the Covert Theatre.

A key part of the Bandits’ magic formula is that they’re always learning and looking to get better even after all these years. They make spontaneous storytelling look easy and come their birthday, they’ll live by their motto of no scripts, no gimmicks, no safety net!

The Improv Bandits 29 and 30 November (Friday and Saturday) 7pm. Covert Theatre, 51 Mackelvie Street, Ponsonby. Tickets: $26 available at eventfinda.co.nz

COME FOR THE PRIME LOCATION . STAY FOR THE PERMANENT VACATION .

Experience the next level of retirement living.

Whether you’re after a central spot you can lock up and leave, or somewhere you’ll never want to, here’s your central oasis for both convenience and comfort.

Take a tour of the state-of-the-art apartments and amenities that put The Helier in a league of its own.

To book a private consultation, call Debbie Little on 09 356 1800. thehelier.co.nz

28 Waimarie Street, St Heliers, Auckland

Another high-end luxury home comes onto the market for sale through one of the city’s top performing real estate agents.

Just two months after listing up the biggest freehold apartment ever built in New Zealand for sale, leading Auckland real estate agent Blair Haddow from Bayleys Ponsonby has dropped another stunning residence into the market for sale.

The stunning 424-square metre colonial style homestead at 26 - 28 Arthur Street in Freemans Bay sits just a few doors down from Blair Haddow’s other high-end listing in Arthur Street.

Blair Haddow’s latest classic gem showcases a magnificent four-bedroom/three-bathroom homestead built in a pioneer homestead style from the early 1900s. The fabulous property has been built across what was previously two addresses, and has a council valuation of $7.5milion. It is being marketed for sale by negotiation with viewings strictly by appointment only with Blair.

The grand three-storey manor resplendent of a bygone era sits on 856-square metres of land including meticulously manicured lawns and gardens and encompasses a substantial open-plan kitchen/lounge/dining room floor plate delivering indoor/outdoor flow to the pool and pergola space, a purpose-built fitness room, wine cellar tasting room, a discreet office with its own kitchen bench, an in-ground swimming pool, an abundance of storage, garaging and additional off-street parking.

With rich-toned polished hardwood floors, the grand residence at 26 – 28 Arthur Street has wrap-round decks on two sides giving views across Victoria Park and further out to the Waitematā Harbour and Rangitoto, with a vista of Auckland’s twinkling CBD towers and lights to the side.

The elegant home gives buyers in the top price bracket a delectable choice to the incredible world-class fivebedrooms/six-bathroom/three lounge apartment at 32 Arthur Street which Blair Haddow listed in August.

Sprawling over three levels, the sleek lined designer dwelling has 170-square metres of six-car garaging and storage space underneath and an elevator linking the lower level to the floors above. All five of the glamorous bedrooms have their own ensuites – with the vaulted ceiling 65-square metre master bedroom featuring an adjoining 28-square metre en-suite emulating the layout and styling you would expect to find in the presidential suite of a five-star hotel in New York or Singapore.

Recognising the potential buyer pool for both Arthur Street homes, Blair Haddow and Bayleys Ponsonby are drawing on the agency’s strong affiliations with international real estate brands Knight Frank and McGrath Estate Agents, to showcase

the pair of ultra high-end locations through the application of specifically targeted digital and social media advertising.

“It’s important to appreciate that the buyers for either of these impressive homes are in an elite buyer dynamic – including high net worth expats coming home to New Zealand, and international business executives coming to Auckland to work in the local branch of global companies,” he said.

Topping off the updated catalogue of desirable Inner-West Auckland homes being marketed for sale, high-profile Blair Haddow is also now selling a gorgeous three-bedroom/twobathroom totally modernised turn of last century villa at 34 O’Neill Street in Ponsonby.

Owned and extensively remodeled over the past few years by renowned architect Julian Guthrie, the attractive 130-square metre home goes under the auctioneer’s hammer through Bayleys Ponsonby on November 13, dovetailing a trend where Blair Haddow is seeing attendance numbers beginning to rise at his weekend open home viewings.

“For example, at the start of October I had open home attendees sitting in their car outside one of my listings some 15-minutes before we officially opened the doors. I haven’t seen that sort of buyer activity in and around Ponsonby, Herne Bay, Grey Lynn, Westmere, St Marys Bay and Freemans Bay for around 18 months,” said Blair.

“At the same time, we have just taken a pre-auction offer on a home for the first time since the end of summer earlier this year. Pre-auction offers are common when a market is running hot as buyers seek to get in ahead of the competition to secure a deal, so these could well be clear indicators that buyer sentiment has evolved into a new phase of the property cycle.”(BLAIR HADDOW)  PN

www.facebook.com/BlairHaddowResidential

Simple style... utter elegance.

HADDOW:

FIVE WAYS TO SMARTEN THE OUTDOORS FOR CHRISTMAS

As November rolls in and the festive season gets closer, it's time to gear up for summer in Auckland and get your garden looking fab for Christmas.

With the warmer weather setting in, your plants are ready to party and so should you. Whether you're prepping veggies for the ultimate Christmas feast or just want the garden to look great for the in-laws, now's the time to dig in.

Here are some handy tips from the team at Central Landscape Supplies Avondale:

Pre-Christmas landscaping. Wooden sleepers are perfect for creating garden beds or seating areas that’ll impress your holiday guests. Or, add some sleek concrete paths and patios – ideal for hosting a Christmas barbecue. Or, let’s be real, a spot for the kids to ride their new bikes. If you're setting up an entertaining space, Feinwerk large-format pavers make a stylish choice for a sunny, festive hangout spot.

Lush Lawn. If your grass tends to go brown faster than leftover Christmas ham, give it a bit of a boost with Prolawn Lawn Booster, making sure you follow instructions to water it in.

Pebble Perfect. Clean up your pebbled spaces with a leaf blower or, if they’re a bit dirty, use an appropriate cleaner

to clean them. A great way to refresh the look is to add a top layer of new pebbles.

Dig in. Planting herbs, lettuces and other vegetables to show off at Christmas? Use Premium Garden Mix in raised beds or large pots; it has all the goodies to get everything looking fab by the time the guests arrive.

Save the watering bill. For true drought-proofing magic, mulch is your best mate. Spread a layer of Reharvest Black Decorative Mulch around your plants to lock in moisture and keep those roots cool. Plus, mulch keeps the weeds at bay –because who has time to weed during Christmas shopping season? A little compost under the mulch adds extra oomph, keeping plants hydrated and happy through the summer heat.

So, whether you're hosting Christmas lunch or just want to enjoy the summer vibes, your Auckland garden will be looking its best and you’ll have more time to kick back with a cold drink in hand. Cheers to that.

CENTRAL LANDSCAPES AVONDALE & EASTERN BAYS, 419 Rosebank Road, T: 09 828 5533, www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

Joanna Joseph at her studio in Wairoa

CHRISTMAS IS COMIN’ TO TĀMAKI MAKAURAU

Get your merry groove on this holiday season at Auckland Philharmonia’s Christmas concerts, which are packed full of joyful tunes, performed live by some of the best musicians in Aotearoa.

Bring the kids along to the orchestra’s Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas Kirihimete concerts for sing and dance-along fun or head to Celebrate Christmas for an evening of more traditional festive music performed by the whole Auckland Phil, together with the incredible voices of tenor Emmanuel Fonoti-Fuimaono and The Graduate Choir New Zealand.

Christmas Tunes for Tamariki

It’s hard to spot anyone without a smile at Auckland Phil’s Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas Kirihimete, and for good reason as these children’s concerts are the ultimate in interactive seasonal fun for little ones. This year, the Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas Kirihimete concert series kicks off on 30 November in the Auckland Town Hall, followed by Takapuna’s Bruce Mason Theatre on 15 December.

Families return year after year for these lively concerts that are specially designed for preschoolers and early primary aged tamariki. Kid-friendly elements over the onehour performances include opportunities to have a go at conducting, sing and dance along with the music, and join a walk through of the orchestra while the musicians are playing to see the instruments up close. Ahead of the performances, free pre-concert activities include face painting, a colouringin competition and a musical instrument show and tell.

Sprinkling this magical performance with her infectious energy will be the award-winning children’s singer and songwriter, Rainbow Rosalind the Fairy. With kids’ crowd pleasers ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’, ‘Jingle Bells’ and ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ on the set list, this will be a cracker of a concert.

For the Auckland Town Hall concerts, most of the stalls seating will be moved to make way for big cushions and beanbags, making it a great, relaxed space for kids to have fun dancing and listening to the music.

There will also be a special performance by 10-year-old Lydia Clark, the 2024 Kōkako Award Winner, who will sing her song ‘Of Love We Are Made’ alongside the Auckland Philharmonia. Presented for the first time at the 2024 NZ Children’s Music Awards, the Kōkako Award nurtures young performers in their endeavours.

These events are a wonderful way to join in the fun and get in the spirit of the season with the youngest members of your family. Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas Kirihimete is delivered by Auckland Philharmonia’s music education programme, Learn & Participate, thanks to the support of Auckland Live, Foundation North and the Margaret Neutze Legacy fund.

Tunes for Tamariki: Christmas Kirihimete

10am & 11.30am, Saturday 30 November, Auckland Town Hall

2pm & 3.30pm, Sunday 15 December, Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna

Booking: aucklandphil.nz/tamarikixmas24

Celebrate the Music of Christmas

If you love traditional Christmas tunes, then head along to Auckland Phil’s Celebrate Christmas concerts, presented by Stanley Street. For this concert, the orchestra will be joined by the marvellous Graduate Choir New Zealand, and outstanding tenor Emmanuel Fonoti-Fuimaono, as they perform seasonal music in the majestic setting of the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Music to look forward to includes excerpts from J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus alongside Leroy Anderson’s ‘Sleigh Ride’ and traditional Christmas carols. Due to popular demand, this year the cathedral’s organ will add to the powerful sound of the orchestra and vocalists – this will be a moving music experience that’s not to be missed.

Stanley Street presents: Celebrate Christmas 7.30pm, Friday 13 December, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell

3pm, Saturday 14 December, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell

Conductor: Stephen Layton

Tenor: Emmanuel Fonoti-Fuimaono

The Graduate Choir New Zealand

Director: Terence Maskell

Booking:

CRUISING WITH ROSS THORBY

Here in Manila, we have all cultures in one city.

The sight that greeted me this morning from my balcony was one that was totally different from any other of the ports I have seen so far on this cruise.

Here is a modern city groaning with skyscrapers, ferris wheels and the sounds from numerous sirens both near and far, greeting me along with a rhythmic chant from Dragon boaters practising just beyond the ship. Paddling their ornate and colourful watercraft back and forth in front of our berth, they added a distinctly Asian atmosphere to the scene. This is Manila, 'The Pearl of the Orient'.

Busting at the seams with a population of just under 14 million, the city is a melting pot of cultures, language and architecture. wondered if this had to do with the invaders who have ruled these islands over the centuries – the Spanish, the Portuguese, the Japanese, the French and, more recently, the Americans.

On the edge of the port, the city sits enticingly. Dotted with examples of classic architecture – Doric columned public buildings sit alongside mirrored glass sky-scrapers while strip malls sit beside traditional temples, parks and even a Spanish Fort.

As soon as the gangplank was lowered, was off on 'shanks pony' for a day of discovery.

Across the Pasig River from the city, is Manila's Chinatown situated in an area called Binodo. The biggest and oldest Chinatown in the world, it was founded in 1594 by the Spanish, built to house the Chinese who were encouraged to convert to Catholicism and cleverly positioned just across the river where the paranoid colonial administration could keep a nervous eye on them.

Binodo is saturated and dominated by large and elaborate Catholic churches, their spires competing with street lamps decorated in Chinese dragons – a living museum of Filipino/ Chinese culture preserved amongst a modern city which is a centre of modern trade and commerce. It is bustling, exciting, chaotic, busy and exactly how I imagined longgone traditional Hong Kong further to the north must have once appeared.

Being one of the few caucasians pounding the streets, I caused quite a stir and there was much fist pumping and greetings from locals as I was allowed to snap them and the environs while I explored. Here, in traditional clothing complete with cone hats

to protect them from the heat, old men and women pushed wooden carts loaded with vegetables and wares, competed on the narrow streets while big dark coloured SUVS, complete with blacked out windows, prowled slowly through the crowds – albeit often overtaken by flimsy looking bicycles piled high with all manner of fowl and fodder.

Above us, strung across the roads, sat a spaghetti collection of wires supplying the power to the innumerable colourful lighting displays decorating every surface moving and stationary. A cacophony of noise, colour and movement which assaulted the senses.

As is common on these short port days, the hours had just slipped by and it was soon time to walk back towards the ship where I chanced across another pearl in Manila’s crown.

The old Portuguese walled city of ‘Intramuros' was originally founded in 1571 by the Spanish Conquistadors. Sitting just outside the modern port’s confines and still untouched by modern life, residents here still live a cosmopolitan life amongst the cobbled streets, open markets, sunlit dappled squares and tempting cafes, just as it was when it was laid out and first established. Amongst the Spanish-styled haciendas and buildings, sits San Agustin Church or 'The Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation and Cincture.

Serving as a concentration camp during the occupation by the Japanese during WW2, it saw many atrocities within its confines, but today it continues to be an influential building in the city. Medieval in atmosphere, both the church and associated monastery, symbolise the majesty and equilibrium of a Spanish Golden Era that persisted in Manila in the 16th and 17th Centuries. Decorated in high baroque including 16 huge french chandeliers and masses of trompel'oeil all through the transept, ante-rooms and ceilings, the church is touted as the most beautiful in the Philippines and was declared a Unesco Heritage World Site in 1993. With just cause.

Sitting in the middle of the Spanish quarter of Manila, you feel as though you have been transported to Spain, which is slightly incongruous considering the country's position in Asia. But well worth the entrance fee.

We might say that in New Zealand we have all seasons in one day, but here in Manila, we have all cultures in one city. (ROSS THORBY)  PN

MISS PEARL NECLIS – what your stars hold for November

Aquarius (the Water Carrier)

21 January - 19 February

Everyone is aware about how much work you put in, especially those closest to you. You’re not expecting praise when the effort is put in. Life is very tough at the moment and your efforts are greatly appreciated, so much so that you will be rewarded someday.

Pisces (the Fishes)

20 February - 20 March

I think you know that your heart lies in your home and perhaps that’s why you don’t feel connected to anything. If you open up about how you’ve been feeling to someone close, they might have a few ideas for you.

Aries (the Ram)

21 March - 20 April

You might have to think about how you communicate lately. You have had a major upheaval in your life and the effects of that episode are now coming out. Don’t brush anything aside but embrace the change.

Taurus (the Bull)

21 April - 21 May

You can achieve what you wish for as long as you work for it. You don’t get anything handed to you on a plate anymore, those days are gone. If you put the effort in you will be rewarded.

Gemini (the Twins)

22 May - 21 June

Learning new skills is something you’re very good at whether it's mental or physical. You have a great capacity to turn something that was once complicated into something that anyone can do. Use these skills wisely and you’ll unlock more of your potential.

Cancer (the Crab)

22 June - 22 July

Being by yourself can expose a lot of your vulnerabilities and you are definitely not one to be exposed like that. You have a better understanding of who you are. Embrace yourself more often, you need it.

Leo (the Lion)

23 July - 21 August

At some point you have to realise that not everyone is as open and loving as you are. Some people will say anything to get on your side. That makes it a lot harder to know what’s genuine and what’s fake. You know though deep down.

Virgo (the Virgin)

22 August - 23 September

You are going to have ample opportunity this month to show everyone what you are made of. You are percolating with ideas and they can’t come fast enough as far as you’re concerned. Think about where you really want to be in 10 years time and go for it.

Libra (the Scales)

24 September - 23 October

Move on if you have to, don’t get stuck in a situation that you’re unhappy with whatever it is. Life should be about experiences and you want to taste so much more. Making a move on the first step is going to be an adventure.

Scorpio (the Scorpion)

24 October - 22 November

Sometimes it’s best to keep the good stuff until last. If you have something up your sleeve and are keeping it for later, now is the time to show your hand. You don’t need competition when you can be side by side. Reveal to the competition what a showstopper is all about.

Sagittarius (the Archer)

23 November - 22 December

Sometimes waiting to hear good news can be exhausting – be proactive and do the talking first. That way the ball is in someone else’s court. Patience is something that you will have to learn.

Capricorn (the Goat)

23 December - 20 January

Try and make life a little easier for yourself by being open and honest about how you feel. The recipient of your feelings feels exactly the same way. Any adjustments you make will eventually get you back on the right path.

Minimum investment of $100,000 Wholesale investors only No costs or fees deducted Returns are pre-tax

investments:

Finbase provides private investors, family offices and high net worth individuals who meet relevant wholesale investor criteria an investment backed by First Mortgage Security.

Investor security:

Funds are utilised to provide First ranking mortgages to commercial borrowers for the purposes of short term property projects, maximum 12 month term of any loan.

Maximum lending of 60% of property value.

Otahuhu, Auckland

Security

Combined

$490,000

Security description: Five bedroom residential home, located on circa 630m² freehold section

iValuation: $1,400,000

Interest rate: 11%p.a. paid monthly in arrears

Purpose of funds: Refinance the existing lender, plus an equity release to repay a debt Exit strategy: Refinance to a main bank in early 2025

Finbase is proud to have never missed an investor interest payment nor suffered a single loss of investor capital.

Victoria, Rotorua

Security description: Circa 100m² terraced home, situated on a cross-lease freehold title

Purchase price: $300,000

Interest rate: 11%p.a. paid monthly in arrears

Purpose of funds: Equity release for renovations on the property

Exit strategy: Sale of property after renovations are complete

We will cover your legal and accounting fees of up to $2,500 to discuss this investment opportunity with your professional advisors, with no obligation for you to invest after doing so.*

Pernell Callaghan

Hayden Thompson

Jordan Evans

Mangere East, Auckland