PONSONBY NEWS - SEPTEMBER 2018

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PUBLISHED FRIDAY, 7 SEPTEMBER 2018

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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THE NEW BENCHMARK A vista for the visionary.

There’s a laid-back allure to 30 Madden. It’s made for those not willing to compromise on location, with a taste for high-end leisure. As the new heart of Auckland city, Wynyard Quarter is where you’ll find what it is you’ve been looking for.

Gourmet experiences, live entertainment, and all the recreational trimmings lie within this waterfront community.

With apartments, maisonettes and penthouses available from $635,000, there’s a layout to suit your lifestyle.

The sophisticated interior is met with a phenomenal outlook, and has a dedicated concierge service to match.

Your every need will be met at 30 Madden.

Visit our display suite on the corner of Madden & Daldy Streets.

Open 12pm – 2pm weekdays, 2pm – 4pm weekends, or by appointment.

Louise Stringer – 021 628 839 – l.stringer@barfoot.co.nz Mike Thorpe – 021 877 351 – m.thorpe@barfoot.co.nz 30Madden.co.nz

2 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

It’s more important what other people say!

Thanks for the magnum of deliciousness and lovely flowers, Luke! It’s been a pleasure selling my house through you. I can hand-on-heart say that I have never had a real estate agent work as hard as you did on my behalf (and I’ve been buying and selling property for 18 years). You got in and got the job done in record time and up against some fairly hefty challenges....very impressive! I will definitely sell through you again.

— Lisa Gerrard, Chief Legal Officer, REINZ

Luke Crockford Real Estate outside the square.

Call me to discuss your property needs today.

Luke Crockford 021 2778 565 luke.crockford@bayleys.co.nz

Bayleys Real Estate Ltd, Ponsonby, Licensed under the REAA 2008

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH

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P29: Icon is a much overused word. But not when you’re discussing someone like local dentist and ex-All Black, Keith Nelson.

Keith is pictured with daughters Vikki on left, Deanna on the right and old dentist friend, Dean Paddy, on extreme right.

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

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EAT DRINK & BE MERRY VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE FASHION & STYLE LIVING, THINKING & BEING HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH

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HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS

FUTURE GENERATION

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

4 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Thinking Real Estate?

Think Chris Batchelor.

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

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34 Herne Bay Road (Off Market Sale) Herne Bay

21 Picton Street Freemans Bay

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

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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LETTERS + EMAILS WESTERN SPRINGS LAKESIDE PARK PROPOSED CHANGES

BY WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD I'm so pleased that WLB is going to clean up the lake. They commissioned a report that says that the nitrates from further up the steam are the main source of pollution making it the second worst type of polluted waterway, 'supertrophic' with a rating of 5.5. It goes on to say that bird poo and feeding bread into the lake worsens the problem and birds can suffer from botulism as a result.

Then it takes a giant leap into blaming the birds and suggesting a major cull. Let's bear in mind that most people are highly satisfied with the park just as it is, a bird park. I went to the lake on Sunday and chatted with the visitors and locals enjoying a sunny day and had that confirmed. The playground was packed and an upgrade with more equipment and seating for parents will be welcomed.

The idea of the opening up to MOTAT for tea and scones could be pushed a little further with boat hire on the lake like Pukekura Park.

Turning the grungey pond on the zoo side of the path to a wetland and recognising the native eels as an important aspect of the park by making it an eel sanctuary is fabulous. The were many people feeding the eels from the dip in the iconic double-hump bridge. This is loved by the park goers. To contemplate removing it for a standard bridge is folly instead of adding to it, like in my sketch, of a triple hump bridge either side. So that all three have access to the water and the eels while 'traffic calming' the flow of people around the park.

People love the interaction with the wildlife, so the proposed lowering of the lake by a metre and planting to stop people being near the birds, when there isn't a health and safety issue, is not a conducive environment for learning about nature. On that note, the signage is long overdue.

LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY I would like to know why whoever is in charge of the Auckland Council Library system has gutted the Leys Institute Library. Half of the shelving has been removed, and with it the books that used to be there. There is now nothing worth reading, particularly in my areas of interest. Spirituality, (Dewey no. 133) has nothing at all of any merit, and science fiction/fantasy is filled with cheap and trashy pot boilers.

Where are the great writers who have something to say about the human condition? I would not be bothered with crime writers or rubbishy modern novels or cook books or other non fiction. In fact there is nothing there for me anymore and I’m wondering why.

Have those in charge of policy decided that everyone reads online books now and they don’t have to bother supplying anything on paper?

They are completely wrong in that assumption. Have all the books been taken away to new libraries in outlying suburbs to save money?

As an Auckland rate payer for 50 years, I fail to see why the library system should be run down like this until there is nothing left for people to borrow. Is the council perhaps trying to curtail library patronage so they can close the Leys Institute down? A fine way to treat a generous gift from one of the city fathers. I am completely disgusted at the paltry rubbish on offer. This is no reflection on the staff who are likely struggling on as best they can. I see this as the outcome of some twisted thinking from further up amongst the policy makers - selling off the books they do have and replacing them with trash. Whoever is in charge is no lover of books and learning, and is only fit to supervise a council rubbish bin which the library system is rapidly becoming if the Leys Institute is anything to go by.

L. M. Sales, Freemans Bay Views in Ponsonby News reflect the authors’ and not those of Alchemy Media.

I would like to see signs teaching the behaviour of the birds, especially when they are protective of their young in the breeding season and that people are visitors to their home as well as stopping bread feeding in the lake. The proposed bird feeding areas are tiny and rather amusing; I'm left wondering if the birds will get the memo?

Maintenance of the park is long overdue, repairing the lake flushing system and the reopening the loos with the fabulous murals. Another toilet block over the quarry side of the park wouldn't go amiss.

The two things I wouldn't want to see, are the planned widening of the paths for more vehicles and cycles, or more events like Pacifika that have a huge impact of the reserve. This is a lovely sedate oasis in the middle of a busy city where people stroll quietly while communing with nature in this unique bird park.

Where families with prams and small children learning to ride bikes come mostly to feed the birds, especially in spring to show them the cygnets from the 'Ugly Duckling'... so stop the killing of the birds and don't "make room for big events," they belong over the other side of Stadium Road. Gael Baldock, Westmere

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FROM THE EDITOR

Photography: Deirdre Thurston aka Annie Leibovitz

In this issue Pippa Coom reminds us of the 9th anniversary since Ponsonby Road was slowed to 40km. We support this move and suggest a few other streets that could benefit from a slower speed, eg: College Hill and Richmond Road.

This month we have a column on our long-time local body member, Mike Lee, including his criticisms of the Super City. John Elliott’s interview with him outlines problems which Lee has identified and offers some solutions. We at Ponsonby News thank Mike for his many years of toil for Auckland.

If the resource consent application to remove the pine trees from Western Springs forest is approved, John Elliott’s column about the replanting in native trees is an important read.

Our cover star this month is clothing label Huffer promoting its collaboration with Tom Gould featuring Action Bronson. Huffer’s development over the past few years has included the label opening a flagship store on Ponsonby Road that was previously occupied by the New Zealand Fire Service. Huffer is sharing the space with Juliette Hogan’s fashion business.

As promised to readers over a long period of time, we are continuing to call for the banning of spraying the poisonous herbicide glyphosate, the active ingredient in RoundUp. Our campaign has been assisted by a jury in California which has found Monsanto, producers of RoundUp, guilty of promoting a human carcinogen. An open letter in this issue calls on the Government to urge the environmental protection authority to ban glyphosate in New Zealand completely.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

L to R: Gwynne Davenport, Joanne Barrett, Melissa Paynter, Martin Leach and Jay Platt Last month we featured the rugby career of local dentist Keith Nelson, which culminated in him becoming an All Black. This month John Elliott attended his farewell after 60 years service to the dental profession. He was so humble in his retirement speech with his two daughter dentists on either side and tears flowed down his cheeks.

A gentle giant of a man who has served his community so well.

It’s good to see local businesses promoting recycling and we hope that other Ponsonby businesses will follow the lead set by Ponsonby Central and recycle and upcycle and collect recyclable materials.

(MARTIN LEACH) F PN

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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IN A CLASS OF HER OWN

Exceptionally tuned in to what’s happening in your area, Karen’s expertise, network and personalised marketing will ensure your outstanding result.

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

Karen Spires 027 273 8220 | bayleys.co.nz

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

Re si de n ti a l / Com m erc i a l / R u ra l / Prop er t y S er v i ces BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW Maggie Mo has worked at Pommes Frites in West Lynn for a little over a year.

What do you like best about Ponsonby?

I love the design of the whole area, super stylish and the range of gourmet restaurants.

Your favourite time of the day?

When the sun starts to warm up the day, especially during winter!

How did you get your job at Pommes Frites?

The owner is actually a close friend of our family! I had mentioned to my mum that I wanted to have my own source of income so she recommended this job to me.

Tell us about your dream home?

I’d love to have a well decorated, ‘aesthetic’, modern home with a white interior.

Who do you think is the most annoying celebrity today?

Canadian rapper/singer Drake. #inmyfeelings challenge anyone? I mean they’re entertaining to watch but they can certainly get slightly annoying.

What was your childhood like?

I enjoyed it a lot. I do miss being a child; attending primary every day was definitely extremely fun.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

I hope to be a midwife and let’s hope I accomplish that desire of mine!

Which TV series would you never miss?

Shortland Street, the melodrama is super addicting.

Where would your dream holiday be?

I’d love to travel the whole of Asia. Experiencing all the different cultures and tasting all the different variety of affordable street foods.

Your most treasured passion?

Shopping!

The most Kiwi thing about you?

I absolutely love pineapple lumps.

Aisle or window seat on a plane?

Window, I tend to get travel sick very easily, therefore admiring the view always helps.

Your favourite movie?

Incredibles 2! I mean who didn’t enjoy it? I may sound immature but we waited 14 years for this and it was amazing.

If they were to make a movie about your life who would you like to play you?

A famous Chinese/Turkic actress, Dilraba Dilmurat What do you most dislike about your appearance?

My slightly lopsided eyes.

What’s the best thing about your age?

Still young and a lot of time to experience many fun things.

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

Salted caramelly depresso expresso sweet chocolate chip!

Something you really disapprove of?

Definitely lying, dishonesty.

What motivates you?

My best friend and good things.

What do you think happens when we die?

You’re in a space of nothingness.

How do you chill out?

I watch TV shows or sleep all day.

Which item of clothing can't you live without?

Skirts/dresses.

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What are you insecure about?

My looks, especially my weight.

Tell us something very few people know about you?

Despite how Asian I may look or dress, I’m actually really Kiwi and white washed!

What is your greatest fear?

Losing loved ones or doing horribly at school.

Who is your favourite hero of fiction and why?

Spiderman. Childish? Yes, I know. He’s such and interesting man who shoots out webs and saves people. Isn’t that fascinating and cool?

What superpower do you wish you had?

Invisibility; wouldn’t that be cool?

Which talent would you most like to have?

The ability to dance! I enjoy dancing. However, it’s not something I’m very good at.

What cliché do you most hate?

Fortunately, I don’t really have any I hate.

What gizmo can you simply not live without?

My phone, of course.

Your greatest weakness/indulgence?

I’m someone that has a very low self esteem and I lack self motivation.

Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person?

For sure, hugs!

What is your comfort food?

Rice! Rice is a food that I can honestly just munch on whether it’s plain white rice or accompanied by side dishes.

Your dream guest list for a dinner party and why?

My close friends and family.

Do you have a party trick?

Nope.

Do you travel light or heavy?

Heavyish, lightish.

Your all time favourite movie and why?

I don’t really watch movies but would TV shows count? Netflix series?

I loved watching Stranger Things.

If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?

Legal driving age. I find that it could possibly be around 14/15 as children grow rapidly nowadays and they should be mature and capable of driving. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) F PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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coastnewzealand.com The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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PIPPA COOM: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT September marks the 9th anniversary since Ponsonby Road was slowed to 40km.

Now in response to a road safety crisis that has seen deaths and serious injuries (DSi) increase by 67% since 2013, Auckland Transport is following that ground-breaking lead by proposing speed limit reductions across the region. In Waitemata, 77% of all DSi involved vulnerable road users, people walking or cycling. This is the highest percentage among all local boards.

The project to lower the speed limit along Ponsonby Road started in 2004 with a Walk Auckland survey in which 65% of people indicated they would like the traffic along Ponsonby Road to slow down. It took campaigners such as Hamish Keith and Andy Smith and the members of the former Western Bay Community Board five years of hard work to turn this into a reality.

One of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to reduce road danger is to implement speed reduction measures. A drop of just 10km/h can make a huge difference to the safety of our streets.

Reducing a 50km/h local street to 40km/h reduces the risk of pedestrian death from 60% to 25%. Speeds of 30 km/h are the maximum any vulnerable or unprotected road user can withstand without sustaining death or serious injuries. In fact, lowering speeds is the most valuable move any local authority can make if we are serious about saving lives. The World Health Organization has concluded that a 5% reduction in average speed can result in a 30% decrease in traffic fatalities.

In 2014 New York City, following the adoption of 'Vision Zero', lowered its speed limit to 25 mph (40km). It has resulted in a 25%

decline in traffic fatalities. The Mayor of London recently announced a Vision Zero goal ambition - the elimination of all deaths and serious injuries from London’s streets by 2041. The Waitemata Local Board was the first to support Vision Zero in our plans. Vision Zero is a longterm goal that creates a more people-centred transport system. At its core is a moral imperative that no loss of life on our road network is acceptable or inevitable.

The Vision Zero approach also accepts that everyone makes mistakes and therefore all parts of the transport system need to be strengthened through a safe road environment, safe speeds, safe vehicles and safe road use, so that when mistakes occur, it does not lead to people dying or being seriously injured.

In April the Associate Transport Minister Julie Anne Genter announced the development of a new road safety strategy with a bold Vision Zero target. This was followed up with additional funding for safety improvements. Auckland Transport is now also aligned with a commitment to create a road network free of death and serious injury.

Work is currently underway to identify areas and roads around the Auckland region to set lower speed limits. These roads will be added to the Schedule of Speed Limits and drafted into the bylaw. The bylaw will be consulted on Auckland-wide. From the feedback I receive I know locals want safer and healthier streets that encourage walking and cycling. Far more streets and neighbourhoods are likely to join PN the example established by Ponsonby Road. (PIPPA COOM) F

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

Hamish Keith and Andy Smith with local board members mark the 3rd anniversary of 40km on Ponsonby Road

Hairdryer speed enforcement organised by Walk Auckland to mark the 8th anniversary of 40km speed limit on Ponsonby Rd

As reported last month, a new playground is under construction at Vermont Reserve

12 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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MIKE LEE: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF How ego, ignorance and groupthink sabotaged two sensible rail plans for Auckland.

People may have noticed a subtle change in the wording of the latest official publicity about the proposed $3.5b light rail to Auckland International Airport project. Mysteriously the word airport’ has been airbrushed out. ‘City to Airport’ has been replaced with ‘City to Mangere’. What can this mean?

It would appear that the idea of trams providing a feasible ‘rapid transit’ (average speed 23.3km per hour) solution to and from Auckland airport has been grudgingly accepted by officialdom as unrealistic. Not that they would ever admit this. It’s just the latest twist in Auckland’s light rail saga, which tragically has become dominated by political egos, technical ignorance and groupthink instead of being about Aucklanders’ needs and reducing traffic congestion.

It wasn’t always so. As recently as May 2015 I was able to write in Ponsonby News: “Auckland Transport’s announcement in January that it was seriously investigating a light rail solution for Auckland as a part of the draft Regional Land Transport Plan, came as a surprise to a lot of people but it’s the best news on the transport front for Auckland since the go-ahead for rail electrification.

“Auckland Transport (AT) has taken this remarkable step - leap more like it - because its modelling and number crunching in the City Centre Future Access Study kept pointing to the inescapable conclusion that by 2021, the recommended maximum of 130 buses per hour on key city corridors like Symonds Street will be seriously exceeded - even with the City Rail Link. This means chronic gridlock.

“AT is therefore scoping a modern Light Rail Transit (LRT) system comprising four lines, Dominion, Sandringham, Mt Eden and Manukau Roads, converging on Queen Street and Symonds Street, with the first stage a 7km Wynyard Quarter, Queen Street, Dominion Road line.

Much more modest than Auckland’s historic 72km electric tramway but, in our time, without doubt a bold and visionary concept.”

Sadly that original sensible approach, phasing in modern trams to replace buses on congested arterials, well supported by Aucklanders at the time, was received with behind-the-scenes anger by the National Government. In response, Auckland Transport senior management ditched the previously agreed future heavy rail link to the airport, proposing instead a single tramline via Dominion Road. They also quietly dropped original plans for a Melbourne-style modern tram

network for the Auckland isthmus and inner city. Excuse the pun, but things went off the rails from then on. In late 2015 Phil Goff, after briefings from AT, announced light rail to the airport as a key policy of his mayoral campaign. In June 2016 the Board of NZTA voted to exclude any future heavy rail connection to Auckland International Airport. A couple of weeks later the board of AT followed in lockstep with only one director voting against - me. A few months later AT demolished the Neilson Street overbridge replacing the road at grade, thus blocking the rail corridor from Onehunga to the airport.

In 2017, taking the cue from his old political mentor, Labour’s Phil Twyford took up the policy of light rail to the airport - taking it over completely when Goff, after commissioning another secret report, this time from AT, and evidently being frightened by what he read, appeared to lose interest. Ironically, responsibilty for the light rail project has been taken off AT and placed in the hands of NZTA which has always been a roads agency.

No matter, NZTA appears to have the requisite enthusiasm. In a recent Herald opinion piece, its CEO Fergus Gammie extolled the “transformational”, “rapid” light rail plan as a “game changer,” etc.

But our politicians and bureaucrats have been too clever by half and have got themselves into a strategic muddle. Servicing Auckland airport and reducing road congestion the original primary objectives are being downplayed, the new motivation for light rail, as Mr Gammie enthusiastically announced, is as a catalyst for more residential housing investment and ‘growth’. Graphically underscoring just how removed from the practical realities of public transport and the best use of light rail our decision-makers are, they intend to replace 20 existing bus stops in the Dominion Road corridor (south of New North Road) with only eight tram stops. Residents and business owners in the Dominion Road area after putting up with prolonged disruption from construction, can look forward to having a rather long walk to catch a tram. This can only mean more use of cars and so added congestion.

This does not mean the powers-that-be are now open to a separate solution for the 25 million passengers predicted to use Auckland International Airport by 2028 - namely a 6.8km fast electric train connection from Puhinui. No. Long-distance passengers with their baggage not willing to take the slow, crowded tram will have to take a bus (perhaps one day a tram) to and from Puhini train station.

“Transformational”? $3.5b and counting is a huge amount of money just to sabotage two very sensible transport plans and turn them into PN something quite dysfunctional. (MIKE LEE) F

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

PONSONBY NEWS+ OCTOBER FEATURES Gardens and Outdoor Living CREATING BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACES FOR SUMMER

Travel and Accommodation PLANNING FUN HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES

Copy deadline: Thursday 20 September Published: Friday 5 October

14 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Showroom now open at 36 Pollen Street, Ponsonby www.jihome.nz | home@ji.net.nz | 09 930 6268 The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

15

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Waitemata Councillor Mike Lee Sometimes when I bemoan something from the past that I wish had not disappeared, I am told not to live in the past. "Get into the 21st Century," I’m urged. Well, I’m 80, and I do know one must be careful not to live in the past.

But here’s the rub. I asked Mike Lee, long time local body politician, and current Waitemata & Gulf Ward Councillor if he ever feels that heat, and he’s a much younger man than me.

are a property-owning democracy, but the structure of the Super City makes it much less accountable to its citizens, over major decisions in transport and public assets.”

Mike Lee knows that feeling of having his experience completely ignored. This is a very disappointing revelation, because Lee’s local body involvement stretches back over 25 years, and part of that time he was a very successful Chairman of the Auckland Regional Council. I have heard Mike several times talking about his efforts to pull together all members of that regional body and have them behave in a bipartisan way. He was mostly successful.

Mike Lee also worries about wasted ratepayer money, including outsourcing traditional council responsibilities such as parks and reserves to big overseas corporations. He also says that the system allows massive amounts of ratepayers’ money to be funnelled into the private sector. He reminded us that we had no chance to vote on this Super City proposal, whereas at least Wellingtonians and Northlanders have been able to vote and reject a similar plan. “It started with the non-democratic decision to impose a Super City without asking the people of Auckland and it looks like it will get worse before it gets better,” maintains Lee.

I asked Lee if he made a mistake deciding to stand again in 2016, when he was personally inclined to retire. I was one who urged him to stand again. He has no regrets about standing again. “Many people asked me to stand,” he told me, “and I had unfinished business to attend to.

I felt I should use my experience for another term - I had more to offer.”

Lee has known Phil Goff a long time. He briefed him several times when Goff was Labour leader, then as Labour party spokesperson for Auckland when Mike was Chairman of the Auckland Regional Council.

He briefed Jacinda too.

Auckland Transport has copped a lot of the criticism of the Super City, and I personally think that criticism is well justified. They have behaved like a secret society, answerable to no one. So, when Mayor Goff removed Mike Lee and Chris Fletcher from the board of Auckland Transport they were both irate. Those two councillors were the only conduit to ratepayers Auckland had, and their removal just encouraged AT to thumb its collective nose to Auckland Council and ratepayers. In my opinion there has been outright corruption at AT, and Mike Lee says that was a symptom of a bad corporate culture “some of which to be fair was inherited, but the organisation needs to be more accountable to the people who pay for it.”

I think it’s fair to say that Mike Lee’s relationship with Phil Goff took an irreparable turn for the worse at that point.

When I asked him if it was a thankless task being a politician, Mike laughs, “Well we were never promised a rose garden. I’m just proud to have the support of the people of Waitemata and Gulf.” It is a thankless task, and Councillor Mike Lee has seen and heard it all for over 25 years, and although disappointed in many ways with how Auckland City has turned out, he remains optimistic about our future.

That is why he is still there, grinding away on issues of concern.

“I’m obviously not in Mr Goff’s in-crowd. My job is to speak out on behalf of individual citizens - many of them at their wits end with frustration about how they are treated by an increasingly unacceptable bureaucracy.”

He’s a man of principle, with integrity as his second name. Auckland is better off from having a man of Mike Lee’s stature as our man on council. We at Ponsonby News thank you Mike, for your many years of toil for Auckland, and assure you that you have far more supporters than detractors in Waitemata. How else could a committed left winger survive in what has become a Tory stronghold?

Not even Jacinda Ardern could wrest Auckland Central away from Nikki Kaye, so Mike Lee must take the plaudits for his longevity and PN his continued success in central Auckland. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

photography: NZ Herald

I asked Councillor Lee why it seemed so hard to run Auckland Council well. “Short answer,” he replied, “the organisation is simply just too big. It is way past critical mass to be efficient.” He said “The council and its CCOs are becoming dysfunctional. There are a myriad empires within, and declining accountability,” Lee alleges. Lee: “We

Mike Lee was born in Wellington, but came to Auckland at 21 with his mother, an Auckland girl, who always reckoned Auckland was a better place to live. And so it was. Lee says he still loves "this great city," but he worries about its future.

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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For your free information pack, call 0800 SUMMER. Or visit summerset.co.nz/lakeview

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

The Legendary Hard to Find Bookshop Iconic is a much overused word, but it is perfectly applicable to Warwick Jordan’s Hard to Find Bookshop.

When Warwick began in 1983, his secondhand bookshop was a weekend hobby in his rented garage in John Street, Ponsonby.

He moved to Onehunga in 1984 and right from the start called the shop ‘The Legendary’ although it was then in its infancy.

The shop went from strength to strength, and people began coming from far and wide as the reputation grew and the ‘legendary’ title was earned.

Then last year came a huge blow. They lost their Onehunga premises and had nowhere to go. The business is commercial, but it is also part hobby, part lifestyle, and partly Warwick’s baby. It pays its way, including staff, but makes a meagre profit. They could not afford a high rental.

In his inimitable style, Warwick set out to find a new home for his 90100,000 books. He had almost given up when he had a brain wave.

He wrote to the Catholic Bishop of Auckland, saying he was seeking a miracle. He believed that the church was in the business of miracles!

The Bishop was sympathetic but not too reassuring when he told Warwick he would hand over the brief to an assistant.

Now, Warwick was not a Catholic and told the Bishop that. His wife and children were, however, of the faith.

About six months ago Warwick was staggered to find that the church would consider leasing him the old building in St Benedict Street which had been empty for several years, and was very run down.

This building had been the home of Mary McKillop, a famous early Auckland Catholic teacher and, now, saint.

As Warwick and his team set about getting the building in shape, they built a pulpit in honour of Mary McKillop, with books and memorabilia of her time making up the display.

18 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

A few of the original shelves from Onehunga are still in the new shop.

It is a lovely rabbit warren of a building - Hard to Find Books would be totally out of place in conventional spaces.

The old Catholic confessional door and window are on display, where parishioners came each week to seek absolution.

Warwick is not religious, but he has faith that the church will not kick him out any time soon. He is respectful of the space his shop occupies.

At one time there were nine Hard to Finds throughout New Zealand.

There is still one more in Dunedin, and it is to here that Warwick sends books to be sold over the internet. No, as far as sales are concerned he is not living in the past, but he does bemoan the Amazons of this world who have very few staff (automation), no physical community presence and view books only as a profitable product.

Warwick Jordan calls himself an ‘enabled hoarder’. He buys deceased estate books, often taking a couple of days to help sort shelves of books lovingly kept for years. Often family can’t use them or have no space for them anyway.

It was my first time in the St Benedict Street shop. I used to visit and sometimes buy in Onehunga. My visit reminded me that you need more than a few minutes to peruse a fraction of Hard to Find’s collection.

It struck me that the books looked in good order, and Warwick confirmed that he spends time repairing deserving books with archival materials - something inconceivable to Amazon.

Go visit The Legendary Hard to Find Bookshop and introduce yourself to Warwick and his staff. Don’t schedule anything else that day!

In another 40 years take another pilgrimage to Hard to Find, and you may see a bust of Warwick Jordan on display at the legendary Hard to Find (but worth the effort) quality secondhand bookshop. He may PN have retired, but he never left the premises. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Western Springs native plant urban sanctuary We have not yet had our submissions to council heard regarding the resource consent to cut down the pines in Western Springs Forest, which I have already written about.

As I said in my submission, I support the resource consent application, but with some significant concerns. How the felling is undertaken, where the logs fall, and how many are left lying in the forest are important issues to resolve. So is the avoidance of erosion.

I am increasingly worried, that although council’s plan is to replant with natives as soon as the pines are removed, time might go by, and the way the pines were felled might leave a hell of a mess, limiting space for native plantings. It is steep in places, and quick replanting will help to stop erosion.

However, my major concern is the quantity and size of the natives to be used, plus the ongoing maintenance of the forest.

My suggestion is to apply to the Minister for Regional Development, Shane Jones, and ask for some money to buy and plant native trees.

Originally, the Government was committed to planting mostly exotic pines, but has been persuaded to plant at least half the land available, in natives. The idea is to restore as much of our indigenous forest cover as possible.

One of the constraints is finding enough land to plant on, so pinching a bit of urban land would make sense. It would also fit very well with the Government’s plan for a predator-free New Zealand by 2050. If the cost of plants was taken out of the equation, our council would only have to find the cost of planting and maintaining the natives. It could also allow larger size plants to be used, so the urban forest could grow more quickly. Natives actually do grow faster than many people realise.

I would suggest that once plants are secured and planted, a Guardians of Western Springs Urban Sanctuary be set up, with the initial task of predator eradication, and then ongoing weed control.

This guardians group would be a local voluntary group under the Council’s Parks and Reserves.

I could see this urban sanctuary maturing quite quickly, bringing back many of our endangered bird species, including my favourite kokako.

How about a return of the dawn chorus to inner city Auckland?

If the decision is made to fell all remaining pines in the forest, then the second part of the programme, replanting in natives, must be planned and managed carefully. Perhaps with the help of Shane PN Jones. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Gardening and the weather With all this climate change business, gardening is going to change. Plants that grew easily might struggle as the temperature warms, others might thrive in a warmer climate.

Nothing will be the same, and there will be lots of trial and error.

I have always been able to grow good carrots, and that pleases me because I’m told commercially grown carrots get buckets full of herbicides and pesticides during their growth. But my carrots this winter are painfully slow. They are growing, but slowly, which makes a difference for succession planting. If a vegetable is an extra month ripening, the next crop can’t go in.

I need to have all my winter crops out or under control before spring veggies go in - beans, tomatoes, courgettes, lettuce, rocket,

20 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

spinach. The above vegetables all grow easily in Auckland from about September on.

A couple of September tips - compost ready for spring veggies, and space plants well, don’t crowd them to try to get too many in your garden. With tomatoes, stake them properly and remove laterals as they grow. If you have room against a wall, try some climber beans they fruit well and last longer than their dwarf cousins.

Lastly, I’ve noticed the ground drying out now, so remember to water your vegetables when the weather gets warmer and, hopefully, more PN settled. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Auckland Showroom 373 New North Road, Kingsland, AKL 0800 00 23 00 forteflooring.co.nz

The Timber Flooring Specialists The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Visit the AKL Showroom to view over 100 timber interior options + the brand new Millboard Decking range

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21

LOCAL NEWS PONSONBY PARK UPDATE - A LONG AND WINDING ROAD The Boffa Miskell report produced in 2000 confirmed the wider Ponsonby area was under-supplied with public amenity space.

Consequently, the land at 254 Ponsonby Road was approved for purchase by Council in September 2006 for the creation of a civic open space. Within the decision to purchase the land was the statement that the rear portion of the site was earmarked for potential sale. This statement was made both:

(That the LandLAB design is currently shortlisted in the prestigious international competition, World Architecture Festival, in the Future Civic Category: www.worldarchitecturefestival.com/civic-future-project, is testament to the quality of the design).

• to enable funding of the future civic space and

Numbers of people involved in the Community-led Design process

• because it was deemed surplus to any such planned development - at that time (2006).

• 1243 signed the initial petition for a ‘whole of site’ open space development • 698 responses to the WLB’s initial 254 Ponsonby Road consultation • 190 respondents to the 1st CLD consultation • 115 respondents to the 2nd CLD consultation

Auckland Central Population Growth In July 2013 the Waitemata Local Board (WLB) produced the Draft Ponsonby Road Masterplan, that included the open space project at 254 Ponsonby Road, and sought public consultation to guide further thinking. A key finding from this consultation was the intense interest in the planned development of the site.

In 2014 a petition with over 1240 signatures specifically requested the ‘whole of site’ civic open space option. This resulted in planning for the 254 Ponsonby Road site being “de-coupled” from the Ponsonby Road Masterplan process and a project specific consultation was carried out from September - December 2014.

Over 77% of respondents (533 of the total 698) to the site-specific consultation chose the ‘whole of site’ option for the development of the civic open space at 254 Ponsonby Road.

In March 2016 the project was devolved to the communuty by the WLB, who established a group of local stakeholders with the brief to: ‘Develop a design concept with an indicative budget, for the whole of the site civic open space using Community-led Design principles’.

Applying Community-led Design principles, a series of needs based enquiry cycles were undertaken with the community including analysis of the responses from the Ponsonby Road Masterplan submissions.

Informed by this work, a series of discussion concepts were created in conjunction with Auckland University’s School of Architecture students, based on the needs and aspirations of the community. The public responses to all of these enquiry cycles led to the creation of the Design Brief which was taken up by 14 professional and volunteer landscape designers.

A clear majority of the 1208 final consultation process respondents chose the design submitted by LandLAB for the whole of the site, civic open space development at 254 Ponsonby Road. This consultation process included a physical exhibition, as well as an online virtual exhibition, of all the submitted designs.

The LandLAB design was then formally presented to the WLB as the community’s chosen design along with an indicative budget.

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

• 1208 respondents to the 3rd CLD consultation This shows significant and sustained engagement by the Community.

The WLB then selected the whole of the site, civic open space at 254 Ponsonby Road project as their “One Local Initiative (OLI)” for inclusion in the 10-year plan. It received strong support with 60% of local residents, who responded to the 10-year Plan, expressing support for the OLI. Council Officers have now been tasked with preparing an assessment as to whether the decision to sell the rear portion of the site should be revisited.

The assessment is required to base the evaluation on two of Council’s guiding documents being the: • Parks and Open Space Acquisition Policy June 2013, and • Open Space Provision Policy 2016.

The Community-led Design group has analysed both of these guiding Council documents and presented their report to the WLB at last month's local board meeting on Tuesday 21 August.

The overall conclusion The guidance of both the ‘Parks and Open Space Acquisition Policy 2013’ and the ‘Open Space Provision Policy 2016’ support and uphold the ‘whole of site’ development option for 254 Ponsonby Road.

Further to these policy documents, Council has, over the past several years, repeatedly engaged in consultation with the local community presenting the ‘whole of site’ development as an option - one that has consistently been selected by the community as their preference.

The decision to reconsider the retention or sale of the rear portion of the site now enables Council, with the support of the community and the Waitemata Local Board, to revisit this historical option.

Therefore, the Community-led Design group has made the following recommendation.

Recommendation Revisit the 2006 resolution and amend it to: Retain the entire site and develop it into a ‘whole of site’ civic open space as soon as is practicable.

If you would like to read the CLD report, please see our website www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz and search CLD Policy guidance report. F PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY U3A: AUGUST 2018 St Marys Bay resident Christine Hart was elected president of Ponsonby U3A at the Annual General Meeting in August. She replaces Collene Roche who has stood down after two years as president. Former secretary Sally Parker has become vice president.

Janet and Douglas Williamson (pictured) were honoured with life memberships at the meeting.

Janet had recently stepped aside from the position of vice-president. In her time of U3A she established a number of special interest groups, such as Armchair Travellers, Antiques and Collectibles, Poetry and Ukulele. She is a well-known local artist, exhibiting regularly and plans to spend more time painting and with Douglas.

New committee members include Barbara Bailey (secretary), Marianne Willison, Lois Greenslade and John Childs.

Christine Hart said she was looking forward to playing an active role in U3A. “It is the most popular local group for those in their third age, providing ‘stressfree’ learning opportunities through special interest groups, leisure activities and warm and friendly meetings with interesting speakers. The special interest groups are regarded as the lifeblood of U3A, providing lifelong learning, involvement and participation and fostering a positive attitude to life and living.”

Speakers co-ordinator, Marianne Willison, organises speakers from a wide range of fields, always with a pertinent message. The August guest speaker was international policy economist with 50 years’ experience, Dr Robert Myers. He describes himself in his curriculum vitae as a concerned citizen and policy note writer. Over the years his work has taken him to many different countries, mainly Africa, also Yugoslavia and Hungary.

He entitled his talk, “Is our Economic Prosperity Sustainable.”

He broke his talk into three parts: What’s the Problem?

What’s Fair? and What’s to be Done? He used mainly New Zealand data, giving a range of examples. He said that if we still had the distribution between labour and capital of 1980, the average worker would be earning $14,000 more in today’s money.

In the What’s to be Done? section he outlined four policy initiatives interventions - in four categories.

These increase the countervailing power of workers and/or reduce the economic power of corporations. However, he said, the Government can’t simply mandate a less skewed income distribution.

Ponsonby U3A meets on the second Friday morning of the month at the Herne Bay Petanque Club rooms. As well as a guest speaker there is a ten-minute speaker drawn from the membership, whose topic may be anything they have a interest in, their career or often some family history. These talks, coupled with the special interest groups, mean that members soon get to know each other and many new friendships form.

Visitors are welcome to attend a U3A meeting, but are asked to first contact Christine Hart, T: 027 289 5514.

Next month’s speaker is Tina Payne - “Financial Forensics”. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F PN NEXT MEETING:

10am Friday 14 September at Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Street Reserve, Herne Bay.

ENQUIRIES:

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

AUCKLAND HERITAGE FESTIVAL EVENT:

Home and Family - Celebrating 125 years of history with opera @ MOTAT. In 1893, English immigrant Henry Wilding co-founded ‘The Society for the Protection of Women and Children’. The aim was to discuss the plight of women and children, and to advocate for law changes to better protect the many vulnerable at the time. Concerned citizens joined in and lobbied for law changes.

The result was laws that better protect all New Zealanders today including the criminalisation of incest, raising the age of consent from 14 to 16, the establishment of the Youth Court, and female police officers.

Auckland life has radically changed since then, and 125 years later, they are New Zealand’s second oldest charity, and now known as ‘Home and Family Counselling’. Whilst the service has changed since they first opened their doors, their commitment to supporting and helping families, couples and individuals in our communities has not. They make a real difference for families, couples and individuals by delivering professional, accessible counselling services to reduce risk, increase safety, and improve emotional wellbeing and resiliency to anyone seeking our support

regardless of their situation. No one has ever been turned away from their doors.

This year also recognises 125 years of Women’s Suffrage. Home and Family Counselling’s past shows they are a resilient organisation demonstrating passion and commitment to the social welfare of our most vulnerable people.

As part of the Heritage Festival and to celebrate bygone times, they have an entertaining evening of light opera and heritage which will be performed at MOTAT. Opera will be performed by ‘The Shades’ and you’ll also be able to browse through memories of the past with visual displays. You can even wear fashion from your favourite era, as there will be great prizes to be won, too. F PN When: Thursday 11 October, 6pm - 9pm Where: Cropper House, MOTAT - 805 Great North Road, Western Springs.

Tickets: include venue entry, opera performance and food.

Drinks available for purchase.

HOME AND FAMILY COUNSELLING. 344 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, Enquiries T: 09 630 8961 E: connie.miller@hfc.org.nz www.homeandfamily.org.nz

24 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS HUFFER: CONQUERING NZFW, CHINA AND BEYOND Since hitting the stores in 1997 as an underground snowboard label, Huffer has grown exponentially, in particular over the past three years when the sky has been, quite simply, the limit.

Huffer's mission has long been to exist in that sweet spot where fashion and functionality meet, delivering seasonal collections through to technical outerwear and print stories that graphically represent the brand. It’s a formula that works, and has seen its clothing worn - and loved - by people all over the world, whether they are grabbing coffee or hitting the slopes. Its speedy development over the past few years has included the label opening a flagship store on Ponsonby Road in the space previously occupied by the New Zealand Fire Service, and the HQ now sits pretty on the floor above.

It’s where you’ll find Huffer co-founder Steve Dunstan when he’s not on the road preaching the gospel of Huffer to the (mostly) converted; the latest trip being a very special one to Sydney. Extending its reach far beyond just clothing and great parties, the brand teamed up with acclaimed, New Zealand-born but New York-based photographer Tom Gould for the DECADE exhibition. To celebrate 10 years of living in New York, Gould captured 10 locals from the Bronx neighbourhood, including rapper Action Bronson and producer The Alchemist (along with a bunch of other characters), all wearing Huffer in their own style. “We had some great people turn up to celebrate with us and they seemed really engaged with the work,” says Steve, “and having photos that were focused on personalities rather than a campaign was a really great initiative for sure.”

This year celebrates 21 years in the business for Huffer, and when we speak Steve is in the countdown to its New Zealand Fashion Week show, which has been designed to both celebrate and educate guests, followed by a party at iconic Mount Eden music venue, The Powerstation. “We really loved the idea of having a show and party at The Powerstation,” explains Steve, “because it’s a venue that is really close to our culture. A lot of Huffer people would have had amazing, emotional experiences and good times watching artists on stage at The Powerstation over the years, so it just made perfect sense as a place to show our collection and celebrate. There’s a bit of sticky carpet but hey, it’s all good!”

The venue has hosted some pretty legendary acts over the past 21 years, and Huffer was on track to welcome yet another one onto

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

the stage when Steve and I speak. “I can’t say who it is until the contract is signed,” he says with a laugh, “but they are pretty huge internationally and we are seriously excited about having them perform at our show.” Influential Australian musician, producer and photographer Ta-ku is scoring the show and has also worked on a collaborative digital piece with the brand that has been curated especially for the event.

But what is particularly special about this year’s Huffer show is that it officially kicks off a unique partnership with the Mental Health Foundation. A key part of the show’s messaging is shining a light on mental health and suicide prevention in particular, which is a subject so real for many Kiwis. “We’ve always been involved with charities over the years,” says Steve, “but we’ve never had an alignment with any one in particular. Suicide prevention is hugely important to me, and I think that the market we’re in means that we should have a voice of some sort and try to work together to bring about change.”

To mark the special collaboration, a limited range of beanies and t-shirts will feature in the show and will be available to buy immediately after, with proceeds going to the foundation. “It’s just the start of a journey that we’re going to take with the Mental Health Foundation, supporting them all the way,” says Steve.

On a commercial level, the show will also be special in that the event will be live streamed in New Zealand and Australia. “The looks we are putting together will be really succinct and totally Huffer,” says the brand’s co-founder, “like great technical clothing and streetwear that we’re proud of. We don’t want to put any crazy spin on it but just do us, really well. We always take a more targeted approach when we enter new markets and this show will definitely be focused on that.

I can’t wait.”

By the time you read this I am sure the locally based, globally minded company will have succeeded in both wowing the people and raising awareness for a seriously worthy cause with their latest NZFW outing.

I think it’s pretty safe to say there was also one hell of a party - happy PN birthday Huffer, 21 and ready for anything. (HELENE RAVLICH) F www.huffer.co.nz

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PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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DEIRDRE THURSTON: ON MY MIND

People, people, people We’re an odd lot, short, tall, round and flat. Blonde, brunette, red - or as a red-headed friend says: “not red, dear, Titian.” Okay.

I get to talk to a wide and varying range of people each day as I work. And one thing is certain - everybody has a story. Some of us have many. My work allows me the privilege of hearing these stories from those I speak with. My heart breaks and soars in equal measures listening to the people who allow me into their inner sanctuaries filled with angels, demons and ghosts. I am humbled by humanity during these conversations.

penalty stalwarts, that everyone deserves compassion and empathy. “What about a child rapist?” they ask. I know, I know... that’s a difficult one but then I believe we can feel compassion for that person without any condoning of their actions. I always wonder what has occurred in their lives to have rendered them so brutal and emotionally damaged that they could commit such a horrendous crime.

One chap told me the other day he had witnessed three suicides and was deeply afraid for a member of his family.

Smiling’s good. I generally find if I smile at a person on the street, they will smile back.

People want connection. We need it. We need hugs, and laughter and love and to cry together and help one another. You certainly find out who the people around you really are when you are down and out, heartbroken, depressed. Sometimes it isn’t the ones you have assumed will have your back at all. People can and do surprise.

“What do you blame for these tragedies?” I asked.

“Social media pressure and a broken heart.” He answered without even the slightest pause. Yep, I thought, that’ll do it.

Later that day I had a long chat with a woman with a terminal illness about her rescue chooks and what joy they brought her. I understood; I was in love with my rescue chooks when I had them. Sylvie and Veronica. Clever, charming, affectionate creatures with red and brown feathers gleaming russet in the sun, that intrinsically understood my veggie garden and strawberry patch were out of bounds. I gratefully fed them strawberries in season and allowed Sylvie on my desk upstairs as I worked. Veronica preferred to nap in one of the dog’s beds in the laundry. The woman told me her chooks knew when she was experiencing a ‘bad’ day. “Their voices change and they hang around me more.”

Sometimes people are initially curt with me - prickly pears. It’s just fear. Fear of opening up and being judged. Fear of feeling things they know might have to be felt in order to get through whatever they need to deal with. Fear of who and what they assume I might be. Another thing I know about people for sure is, laughter is medicine. A good, hearty chortle with a stranger is a great way to build trust and release those endorphins.

Everyone can laugh. Although sometimes, depending on what has happened to you in life, it can take a while to ‘feel’ that laughter again.

People are inspiring, disappointing, kind, nasty, judgmental, disassociated, too in-your -face and boundary-less, sincere, fake, loving, generous... we all embody these and many other traits. We move in and out of all these things to differing degrees. I believe everyone is born pure. I also believe, and it has gotten me into arguments with death

People are simple. People are complicated. People are selfish. Others are givers. Some would say those types are selfish because of what they get in return. Is there such a thing as selfless giving? In giving we get back the warm fuzzies.

‘As you give so shall you receive’. On the positive side of that, the kind and generous giving, it is all about expectation. Or rather lack of it. If nothing is expected in return then that giving is a selfless act. Warm fuzzies and all.

People amaze me. Their bravery and tenacity, their elegance and wit. Their vulnerability.

Their stupidity also amazes me and their lack of moral compass and sense of entitlement and snobbery. When people I know speak so callously and coldly about others less fortunate than themselves, like those people are lesser beings, I could cry. People annoy me, and delight me. I love them. I do not love them. I can’t live without them. I can’t live with them. The best people wrap their arms around you when you aren’t so lovable. Can we ever truly understand another person? That deep, special, unknown essence we all have?

People have the unfortunate ability to be lonely in a crowded room. In my experience, that is lonelier than being alone. I have been lonelier in a relationship than when by myself. And that’s saying something.

People, people, people... Weird and wonderful beings.

PN To quote Jim Morrison: “People are strange.” (DEIRDRE THURSTON) F

LUCIA MATAIA: LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY NEWS Kia ora koutou, check out our monthly Book Chat recommendations and if you’re feeling glum because the film festival is over, then come along to our new classic film screenings held in our Reading Room.

The Auckland Heritage Festival starts at the end of this month with evening talks in the library and guided tours of this beautiful historical library.

Heritage Booklet for talks, guided walks, food and other events online courtesy of the Ponsonby Business Association www.iloveponsonby.co.nz under Auckland Heritage Festival.

Book Chat group First up is American humourist David Sedaris, who has a new book, Calypso. Along with his regular cast of characters, namely his family and his partner Hugh, there’s also a tumour-eating snapping turtle and a fox named Carol. Like all of Sedaris’ books, Calypso is extremely funny, but there’s also some darker topics such as death and ageing. Final verdict: A great read.

Heritage library tour See timetable below for guided tours of this beautiful historical library. We also have a photographic exhibition of special images of Ponsonby and Herne Bay. You can book your place for the tour online at iloveponsonby.co.nz or in-person at the Leys Institute Library or by telephone 09 377 0209. (LUCIA MATAIA) F PN

AJ Finn is the pen name for former book editor Daniel Mallory. His new crime novel The Woman in the Window is about Anna, a boozy agoraphobic who witnesses something horrible happening to one of her neighbours. One of our Book Chats group described the book as an entertaining, fast-paced quick read. Movie buff may enjoy this book too, with its many references to old movies, including Rear Window.

Wednesday 3 October 2pm-3pm Saturday 6 October 1pm-2pm Wednesday 10 October 2-3pm Saturday 13 October 2pm-3pm Open hours; Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm and Saturday 9am-4pm

Heritage events held in the library The Auckland Heritage Festival 29 September - 14 October. We are pleased to host a series of evening talks held in the library. Don’t forget to check out the Auckland

LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

26 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

Improving our education system National is proud of lifting educational achievement over the previous nine years, particularly for some of our most vulnerable New Zealanders.

In 2016, 85% of 18-year-olds achieved NCEA Level 2 or equivalent, an overall lift in achievement of 17 percentage points since 2008.

- and Pasifika We saw a particularly sharp improvement in Maori achievement, with 75% of Maori and 80% of Pasifika 18 year olds achieving NCEA Level 2 or equivalent, up from 57% and 65% respectively in 2011. Under National the education budget increased every year we were in office and the overall education budget went from $8 billion to over $11 billion. We established National Standards, the Education Council of New Zealand, Communities of Learning and the Investing in Educational Success Initiative. Last year we also announced a $3 million package to help increase teacher numbers, with a focus on Auckland. This brought the total amount of government funding committed to improving teacher supply to almost $20 million over two years.

However, due to the Canterbury Earthquakes and the Global Financial Crisis we were limited in doing more. There is still more work for us to do to improve our education system. We also recognise that part of opposition is about considering new policies and changes to previous policies.

Simon Bridges and I recently announced National’s commitment to increasing the number of primary teachers to reduce class sizes and give children more teacher time. Teacher quality matters a lot, but we also believe that simply having more teachers will make a difference to young children.

Schools currently get one teacher for every 29 nine and 10 year olds.

It’s lower than that for younger children. We want to reduce those ratios to ensure that all our kids can get the individual attention they deserve. This is important to us because with the right education we can overcome the challenges that some children face purely because of the circumstances they were born into. These ratios affect the workload of teachers as well.

The new Government has billions more cash than we did, but primary and secondary education has not been prioritised as they have spent $2.8 billion on tertiary students with their fees-free package, $3 billion on Shane Jones’ slush fund and huge amounts of cash on diplomats. The proportion of the vote in Budget 2018 going to secondary and primary education has shrunk.

During the election campaign, Labour built up high expectations around pay rises and working conditions for teachers. They have not delivered and we have seen the first primary teachers’ strike in 24 years, which has caused disruption to children’s learning and to some parents who have struggled to put in place adequate supervision arrangements.

The Government must reach agreement with primary teachers to avoid more strikes. My hope is that the Government prioritises teachers and reaches a settlement which raises teachers’ salaries and addresses the other issues with workload and conditions that are also part of their claim. It is important that parents and families do not experience further disruption.

National will spend the next two years working with teachers, parents and communities on the details of the education policies that we will take to New Zealand in 2020. We’ve got a multi-year process to run the ruler over our existing policies, and propose new ones for 2020.

This year is about listening to our communities, next year about getting feedback on the ideas we put forward and 2020 about delivering the concrete plans that show New Zealanders we are ready to lead.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Every government gets faced with a different set of challenges and it matters how we respond to those challenges. My hope is that over the next two years I can continue to hold the Government to account, work with the Government where possible to strengthen education policy and provide a strong vision and set of policies for education PN for the future. (NIKKI KAYE) F If you have any local or national issues or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me or my office on 09 378 2088 or send me an email on mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz Authorised by Hon Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay. www.nikkikaye.co.nz

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

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

Drop In Constituency Clinic: 48C College Hill, Freemans Bay September 28, 10-11am

Funded by the Parliamentary Service.

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

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LOCAL NEWS THE COMBINED PROBUS CLUB OF PONSONBY After our last mid-winter Christmas lunch meeting, we are back to our normal meeting plan, with a guest speaker, Dr Craig Marshall, and perhaps his wife Nicky, who will be telling us about their great experience on the 'Peking to Paris Rally'.

They will speak briefly about the rally beforehand and then show a 20-minute video on the rally itself.

The Marshalls have a 1915, 14.5 litre American La France Speedster (three spark plugs per cylinder). We are looking forward to these speakers with a great deal of interest.

Next month our 'outings' team of Laurie Holloway and Geoff Wrigg have come up with a little larger trip, which departs at 9am and travels to Kaiwaka for morning tea and then on to The Kumara Box in Dargaville where we will have a fun-filled presentation by 'Ernie The Kumara King' followed by lunch, a trip in the kumara train and time to view the museum and its displays. Then back home, arriving at around 5pm.

One of the great things about a 'combined' Probus club is the fact that being a male and female club one does get a lot more speakers and events in a broader range of interest.

We meet at the Ponsonby Petanque Club on the third Tuesday of each month; with the exception of December and January which are considered to be the holiday months.

We welcome visitors to any of our meetings and if you enjoy the visit you are very welcome to apply for membership.

Feel free to ring me on my home line 09 378 7922 or my mobile 021 0636 344 if you have any questions that you would like to ask.

(BARRY CLAPHAM, PRESIDENT, THE COMBINED PROBUS CLUB OF PONSONBY) F PN

FREE SENIORS YOGA CLASS STARTING IN SEPTEMBER! Ponsonby Community Centre, the Waitemata Local Board and Four Winds Yoga have joined forces to provide a free yoga class for local seniors.

Taught by Iyengar certified Francesca Hopkins from Four Winds Yoga, the class will focus on strength and balance, with an individual-based approach for those who need help in particular areas.

No registration is required to begin with - just turn up!

(If we reach our capacity in the hall we will start a registration list).

We look forward to seeing you!

Ponsonby Community Centre and the Leys Institute Gymnasium Hall is available for hire. F PN For more information, please visit www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz

WE NEED YOUR EXPERTISE! FREE SENIORS* YOGA

Proudly supported by

The Ponsonby Community Centre, including Ponsy Kids FOUR with Francesca Hopkins Community Preschool, is looking for community WINDS minded people with professional skills to join our Board. YOGA Wednesday’s 10:30am For more information please email the Manager on at the Ponsonby Community Centre lisa@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz 20 Ponsonby Terrace @thePonsonbyCommunityCentre First session:19th September | 20 Ponsonby Tce www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz | 378 1752 BRING YOUR GOLD CARD!

*65+ YEARS Please contact at julie@ponsykids.org.nz or on 376 0896 for more information form mation m ation

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

An open letter to Eugenie Sage re glyphosate Dear Minister, A jury in California has just awarded a lifetime user of Monsanto’s RoundUp, who has terminal cancer, $289 million, declaring glyphosate responsible for DeWayne Johnson’s non Hodgkinson’s lymphoma.

Monsanto has said it will appeal the decision. DeWayne Lee Johnson is one of some 5000 plaintiffs across the US who are now likely to take many more cases against Monsanto.

In 2015 a World Health Organisation group of international scientists, concluded that glyphosate was ‘a probable human carcinogen’.

Eugenie, as Minister for Conservation, you owe it to New Zealanders to keep them safe from the poisonous contents of RoundUp herbicide.

Our Environmental Protection Agency is simply failing to protect New Zealanders. Against overwhelming evidence they continue to take their cue from the US EPA, which for years has been corrupted by close association with Monsanto.

In her recent book, Whitewash, (which I reviewed in a recent Ponsonby News), Carey Gillam exposes the deceit inside Monsanto and the EPA, and the collusion between the two.

I have written about this issue for a couple of years, (others like Stefan Browning and Hana Blackmore for much longer) and the evidence has continued to mount, associating glyphosate with various cancers, especially non Hodgkinson’s lymphoma, and yet our EPA continues to ignore the evidence.

I have had a close association with the Waitemata Local Board here in Auckland, and they are moving to eliminate the use of products containing glyphosate when controlling weeds in our parks and reserves. They are starting by banning its use in Albert Park, Myers Park and Western Park. Auckland Transport has been controlling weeds on our berms and road sides, often using more glyphosate than they claim, but later this year that work will be handed back to the Council Parks and Reserves committee.

I’m hopeful that the Waitemata Ward will be the first Auckland ward to go glyphosate free.

However, it’s my earnest belief that you, as Minister, should exert your authority and demand that our EPA behaves more responsibly, and bans herbicide products containing glyphosate.

Rachel Carson was responsible for getting DDT banned in America in 1972. DDT had been the most effective and widely used herbicide since the 1890s. Later in New Zealand we tolerated the use of 24D and 245T for far too long. They were both carcinogens too.

The government was at pains to support Ivan Watkins Dow of New Plymouth who produced and distributed 24D and 245T. I used both those products to spray gorse and willows during my university holidays, working for Rudnik Helicopters. We used no gloves, masks or any other protection.

For the good of our nation’s health, all products containing glyphosate PN must be banned. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Ponsonby’s double icon - Keith Nelson Icon is a much overused word. But not when you’re discussing someone like local dentist and ex-All Black, Keith Nelson.

I had the privilege of attending Keith’s farewell from dentistry last month. It is nearly 60 years since Keith Nelson began his dentistry training in Dunedin.

Amazingly, he combined dental school with senior rugby duties from his first year in Dunedin, 1959. He captained Otago, who famously beat the visiting Lions that year, and Keith Nelson scored a try. He played for NZ Universities, and in 1962 he made the All Blacks. He also married Aldyth Lloyd, Dunedin Festival beauty queen. Quite a year!

His old dentist friend, Dean Paddy, a long time associate at the Glen Eden practice, called him ‘a double icon’, and he was right.

Passionate and caring, this gentle giant of a man always strove to provide the best possible solutions for his patients' needs.

His first practice was in Glen Eden. The historical loyalty was on display on that farewell afternoon. A gathering of friends, family and staff celebrated Keith’s long service to his community.

Keith’s old friend Dean Paddy gave an emotional speech, extolling Keith’s virtues. The big man was embarrassed and in tears. His loving daughters, Vikki and Deanna, both dentists following in their father’s footsteps, were there at his side to comfort Keith. It was a moving sight.

Keith Nelson travelled and worked overseas in the US and England, and brought back progressive ideas for his practice.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

He was one of the first dentists in New Zealand to use nitrous oxide sedation, and one of the first to do dental implants.

A good example of his caring community involvement came when he introduced before and after work care for his Glen Eden patients, so workers would not have to miss work to have their teeth fixed.

A family video delighted those at the farewell. It spanned Keith’s entire career, and featured the background song, Bad to the Bone.

Daughter Deanna is my dentist, sometimes Vikki if Deanna is away, but I’m told one of Keith’s qualities has always been his gentle touch with his huge hands. The two women are rightly extremely proud of their father’s achievements over all those years.

What a legacy to leave behind. I hope it makes Keith Nelson realise that his work will carry on in the capable hands of his two dentist daughters.

Keith will now have more time to indulge his other great love - rugby football. He is the patron of the Ponsonby Club.

My last image of that farewell party as I left, is seeing Keith sitting pouring over old photos with two elderly ladies - two of his original Glen Eden staff, come to honour and celebrate with their former boss.

PN It was a delightful scene. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

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30 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NEW ZEALAND SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Since 1744, Sotheby’s Auction house has been renowned for the sale of some of the world’s most precious items including fine art, antiques, jewellery and historical artefacts.

It is now one of the largest art business’s in the world. In 1976 Sotheby’s International Realty was founded with the same commitment to exceptional service. Today it is the world’s largest luxury real estate business.

In 2005 the brand opened in New Zealand and New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty (NZSIR) has subsequently achieved record sale prices across multiple sectors and regions of our markets.

With Herne Bay and the surrounding suburbs being amongst the most desirable areas to live, we have created an experienced team of five, dedicated to providing a superior level of service to your area. This elite team brings knowledge-based experience with utmost professionalism. Action, ethics, and trust-worthiness are the key qualities and the promise of high value service to our clients. This is all backed up by trained, superior, negotiation skills for when it counts.

“A results-focussed agency with a large international reach, NZSIR is unique with many benefits for our clients. The boutique nature allows us to provide a bespoke approach to each listing which includes advice in the presentation of your property and specific, tailored strategies for local, national and international markets aimed at generating a premium result.

“This attention to detail ensures your home is set apart from the rest to make a strong and lasting impression on buyers. We provide comprehensive access to the best marketing avenues, effectively and affordably.

“There has been a lot of discussion about the upcoming changes to off shore markets with law changes potentially closing some sectors of the market. We note, however, the exemption to Australians, Singaporeans and circa one million New Zealand expats globally.

Our relationships with our global affiliates in these markets is second to none so we offer unprecedented access to these markets on behalf of our vendors. An access offered like no other company in New Zealand.”

Sotheby’s International Realty is the world’s largest and pre-eminent luxury residential real estate company with over 22,000 licensees, 950 offices worldwide and global sales of $120 billion.

Their exclusive marketing channels, made accessible to their vendors (such as Sotheby’s luxury publications www.sothebysrealty.com, the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, London Telegraph to name but a few, allow them to showcase your property to the world like no other New Zealand real estate company. www.sothebysrealty.com is the world’s number one ranked luxury residential real estate website with over two million unique visits per month. This is more than double their nearest major competitor.

“There is very strong demand from buyers both currently living in and wanting to move into your area to enjoy the special lifestyle offered in Herne bay and the greater Ponsonby area, so if you are considering selling and want expert advice from an expert PN team, please call us.” F NEW ZEALAND SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY, 160 Jervois Road, T: 09 360 7777, www.nzsothebysrealty.com

The Science Behind Successful Real Estate Results Stewart Morgan BSc(Hons) M +64 21 933 305 stewart.morgan@nzsir.com Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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MEKONG BABY - A PONSONBY SUCCESS STORY When Mekong Baby opened its doors on the site of the old GPK pizza site five years ago, restaurateur Dominique Parat felt nervous but confident that his new venture would be a success.

The entrepreneur, who had been in the vanguard of the movement to bring European-inspired fine dining experiences to Auckland in the late 80s and then on to enjoy great success with gourmet pizzas, had spotted a gap in the market.

While visiting a friend living in Phnom Penh in Cambodia, Dominique fell in love with the fresh, unique flavours of the local cuisine. He was inspired, too, by the way that meal times in Cambodia were noisy, happy occasions that featured a range of smaller dishes shared by everyone at the table. It was all very different from the traditional ‘entree-maindessert’ template that typified restaurant dining in New Zealand.

On his return to Auckland, Dominique began the process of meticulous research and planning that have become the hallmarks of all his restaurant developments. His research indicated the convergence of a number of trends that convinced him even more that he was on to something.

Younger restaurant patrons were increasingly eschewing the more formal dining experiences that had been the preference of their parents, where expensive dishes were served in darkened, hushed rooms in strict order.

The New Zealand palate was continuing to evolve and becoming more sophisticated - and adventurous. There was a growing desire for new and different combinations of flavours and a greater willingness to try new things. Eating out was becoming more social, we were eating out more often and, consequently, we were looking for value for money as well as quality. At the same time, the dining options available were fairly limited, and largely comprised either smaller, cheap ethnic ‘takeaway’ style food or expensive, formal dining.

Meticulous attention to every detail has always been a hallmark of Dominique’s restaurants. His vision was for a space that would complement his interpretation of Asian-fusion cuisine and which could cater for couples out on ‘date night’ through to large corporate groups, and everything in between.

And, after a two-year gestation period, Mekong Baby - that unique and unmistakeable blend of East and West - was born. And became an instant hit with Auckland’s young, and not-so-young, fashionable

set. Five years on and Mekong Baby has become a Ponsonby institution and continues to set the standard for others to follow.

But, overnight success is one thing, achieving longevity in the restaurant trade is far more difficult. While the exquisite food is the undoubted hero of the piece, Dominique knows all too well that delivering a superior dining experience requires constant, and consistent, attention to every aspect of the business.

Maintaining the high standards that his customers have come to expect, means using only the freshest ingredients to produce the incredible flavours and textures that Mekong Baby is known for.

(In this writer’s humble opinion, in a menu boasting an incredible breadth and depth of dishes, you will not find a better example of pork belly anywhere in Auckland.)

Longevity requires a dedicated and professional team of people who understand and can anticipate the needs of customers. It means investing in a sommelier who can scour New Zealand and the world for wines of exceptional quality and diversity. It means having bar staff skilled in creating mesmerising and memorable cocktails. It means investing in lush and exotic artwork, fittings and décor to provide an appropriate setting that complements the exquisite and dramatic presentation of the cuisine.

Dominique Parat is a constant and dynamic presence at Mekong Baby. The restaurant trade is in his blood and lives for the constant challenges of the business. He never sits still for long and is always striving for ever greater levels of excellence. He travels regularly, searching the world for new ideas and emerging trends. Every two months he holds an in-house ‘tasting session’ where the kitchen is encouraged to present new ideas. It is a demanding and rigorous process that encourages innovation and experimentation, but only the very best will ever make it on to the menu.

These then, are the reasons why Mekong Baby has maintained its place as one of Auckland’s top restaurants and continues to be a leader in the evolution of simply superb Asian fusion cuisine.

Whether its meeting with friends for dinner and drinks on a Friday night, or looking to book one of the restaurant’s three banquet rooms, Mekong Baby can make it happen for you. F PN Open six days Tuesday to Sunday. www.mekongbaby.co.nz

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FACES@ GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET Ronan Guilloux and his childhood sweetheart, Adeline, can be found at Grey Lynn Farmers Market selling gorgeous crêpes and galettes.

What brought you to New Zealand?

We spent a year working in Japan making Belgium waffles and we wanted to experience another new way of life. Australia is too big but New Zealand is a better size and we’d heard how beautiful it is here.

How did that lead to making crêpes?

I have a degree in French cuisine and spent nearly two years working at the crêperie, O11ze (pronounced Onze, which means Eleven) which is about 20 minutes from Paris. I was looking for an opportunity to set-up a crêpe business here.

How did you decide on a food truck?

I spotted the Fab Truck on Trade Me. It was perfect. Fab had set it up with all the right equipment for making crêpes; he helped me optimise the way I use the space, and he introduced me to the Grey Lynn Farmers Market.

Where did Captain Crêpes come from?

Adeline is a graphic designer so she gave me three options for revitalising the look of the truck and Captain Crêpes was the winner.

It is very playful - “Work like a captain, play like a pirate”. The new red look really stands out.

Are you using the same recipe that Fab had?

No - I’m using my own recipe and I’ve made a few innovations like serving sweet crêpes in a cone. I use buckwheat flour to make the savoury galettes, which makes them naturally gluten-free. We have plenty of vegetarian options but I can’t make them vegan because I use eggs and milk.

Where do you get your ingredients from?

I get as many as I can locally and from other stallholders at Grey Lynn Farmers Market. The ham comes from Grey Lynn Butchers, the cheese comes from Il Casaro, and the eggs come from Nature's Corner.

I hear you had a bit of trouble with eggs recently...

Yes - it was terrible! Carl left me a stack of eggs and I didn’t notice it when I was parking the truck. All but three trays of eggs were smashed. It made a big mess. Luckily I got lots of help to clean it up.

What have you enjoyed about Captain Crêpes?

The support from other stallholders has been wonderful. I love that New Zealanders are much more patient and polite while they are waiting, compared to what I’m used to in France.

What has given you the most joy?

The delight of children who love crêpes in cones. I remember a dad with three children. One of the children ordered a chocolate crêpe.

When it arrived, the other two sang out “I want it, I want it”. F PN facebook.com/captainecrepes www.glfm.co.nz

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY 5 Fort Lane, CBD T: 09 379 9702 cassiarestaurant.co.nz

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

BECOME A FRIEND OF KELMARNA GARDENS FOR AS LITTLE AS $5 A MONTH Your regular donation will help connect more school children with nature, empower people all over Auckland with sustainable living choices and develop and maintain a therapeutic garden.

Join now at: www.kelmarnagardens.nz/donate

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DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY TWO ISLANDS CHOCOLATE PANCAKES Breakfast recipes Sometimes, a protein shake just won't quite hit the spot. Other times, pancakes full of refined white flour won't either. When you're having a day when both of those things combine (or just really want some good pancakes), this is the recipe for you! Made with Two Islands Co. protein powder, the brainchild of cookbook author, sister duo Julia and Libby, these pancakes are full of delicious wholefood ingredients and pack a great protein hit!

Why should you add a protein powder to your diet?

Most of us do a great job of meeting our protein needs through our wholefood diets alone. If you're very active though or even having a busy day and struggling to fit in a nutritious meal, a protein powder can help you meet your daily protein requirements.

Little Island Co. chocolate pancakes INGREDIENTS 1 serving of Two Islands Co. chocolate protein powder (or try their new salted caramel) 1 organically grown banana 2 organic eggs Âź teaspoon cinnamon

Heat a skillet or fry pan on medium heat and add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Once the oil has melted, pour Âź cup of the mixture into the pan.

TOPPINGS Maple syrup, fresh organic fruit and your choice of yoghurt

Cook until bubbles appear on top. Flip pancake and cook until golden brown on the underside. Repeat until all the batter has been used.

Method Add all the ingredients (except the toppings) to a blender and blend until smooth.

Serve warm topped with fruit, yoghurt and maple. F PN www.huckleberry.co.nz

+

PONSONBY NEWS

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

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

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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

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

Keep up to date with whats happening in Ponsonby!

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

SUGAR CLUB AT SKYCITY WELCOMES TALENTED CHEF Josh Barlow, former head chef at Cuisine three-hat restaurant The Grove, has made an impressive impact since his appointment as executive chef of Peter Gordon’s iconic Sugar Club at SKYCITY Auckland.

Having left The Grove at the end of 2017 to spend time with his young family, Barlow says it was a case of ‘right place, right opportunity’ that arrived sooner than expected.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed joining SKYCITY and the Sugar Club team.

It’s been a fresh challenge working with Peter Gordon and learning about his fusion cuisine. I believe there’s lots of room to grow in this restaurant, and it’s where I want to develop my cuisine,” says Barlow.

Set on level 53 of the Sky Tower, The Sugar Club couples Peter Gordon’s internationally renowned fusion cuisine with spectacular views over the city and Hauraki Gulf.

Chef Peter Gordon says Josh has brought an impressive drive and huge amount of talent to The Sugar Club.

“When Josh’s CV came across my table, I was thrilled. It is exciting to have such a talent in Auckland, especially as he has worked in restaurants I admire both here and in the UK. Fortuitous timing has led us to start working together, which is going to be a lot of fun.”

At just 30 years old, Barlow is already an experienced New Zealand chef. After working seven years abroad, first in Australia and then in Michelin starred restaurants in the UK, Josh returned to Auckland in 2015 to make his mark on the restaurant scene here. He started as senior sous chef at the award-winning The Grove and in 2016 took over as head chef.

Josh has already made a significant contribution to the Sugar Club since starting in May. He has played a key role in the refreshed winter menu that launched in June and has been well received.

“Our winter menu was designed around the best of the seasonal ingredients and trying to work with as many local and small producers as possible.”

The Wild Shot Venison dish comes from herds of red deer that roam the National Park in Fiordland. This dish is served with burnt cream, confit carrot and a sauce made of venison bones and finished with

smoked beetroot juice and dark chocolate. Available on the a la carte and the chefs tasting menu.

The special plating of some unique snacks brings a new form of art to the menu. Crispy pig head with parsley mayonnaise is served with pine needles on top of a large piece of tree bark.

The restaurant is a premium dining destination and one that New Zealanders are fond of, with its roots dating back to 1986. Earlier in August, the restaurant celebrated its fifth birthday of the restaurant inside the Sky Tower. F PN www.skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/the-sugar-club

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY CHOCOLATE AND COFFEE - NAME A MORE ICONIC DUO Get ready for the ultimate cheat day, as The Chocolate & Coffee Show celebrates its fifth birthday.

New Zealand’s finest coffee purveyors, chocolatiers and culinary masters are converging on Tamaki Makaurau for a spectacular two -day event.

The Cloud will be transformed into a wonderland of tastes with an offering of live demonstrations, exclusive masterclasses and of course an abundance of sampling opportunities.

Let yourself go as you enter a world of tantalising aromas, tasty treats and smiling chefs ready and waiting to make your wildest caffeine and confection dreams come true.

Now in its fifth year, The Chocolate and Coffee Show is New Zealand’s largest celebration of chocolate, coffee and tasty treats.

GROUNDED CAFE FOR BRUNCH LUNCH OR FUNCTIONS Grounded Cafe’s variety of high-quality food offers satisfying choices that stimulate clients’ appetites.

Featuring over 80 exhibitors representing the crème de la crème of New Zealand’s artisan chocolatiers, coffee roasters and purveyors of delectable morsels, The Chocolate & Coffee Show is a requisite event for any foodie. F PN THE CHOCOLATE & COFFEE SHOW, The Cloud Queens Wharf, 6 & 7 October, 9am to 5pm TICKETS: General admission $17.50, Masterclasses $45 https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/the-chocolate-and-coffee-show2018-tickets-46059609532 www.chocolatecoffeeshow.co.nz

Encapsulating the Spirit of Ponsonby Cafe Culture UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

The brunch menu offers options priced from $6.50 through to $20 - toast with homemade preserves, fresh fruit salad with rhubarb honey compote, quinoa toasted with maple syrup, granola, seeds, berries, cream yoghurt, free-range eggs on toast, eggs benedict with bacon/smoked salmon, crispy bacalao cakes, spinach and tomato omelette with bacon/smoked salmon and there’s more.

For lunch there are soups of the day with freshly made bread, corn fritters with salad, or the chefs special curry dish, gluten-free pancakes and various vegetarian dishes including calzone and mushroom quiche. Finish with Organico or Velo coffee. For catering and corporate lunches, choose from a selection of delicious small-bite platters.

To see the full brunch, lunch and catering menus go to www.groundedcafe.co.nz “Whilst we live in Titirangi,” says owners Sam and Janeka Perera, “our daughters go to St Mary's College, so this is great for us to have our cafe located just up the road in Three Lamps.

CATERING FOR FUNCTIONS AVAILABLE Open: Monday to Friday 7am - 3pm Saturday to Sunday 8am - 3pm 2 Pompallier Terrace, Ponsonby

“We love the Ponsonby vibe. It has a unique feel to it that no other suburb will bring you, this is shown through the cultural diversity and friendly environment.” F PN To discuss your lunch or corporate function contact GROUNDED CAFE, T: 09 376 0460, M: 021 190 2010, or email groundedcafeponsonby1010@gmail.com

40 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

Ph: 09 376 0460 | M: 021 190 2010 or E: groundedcafeponsonby1010@gmail.com PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Experience the magic of Matakana, stay at one of our luxurious new Plume Villas and enjoy the superb food and À QH ZLQH DW 3OXPH 5HVWDXUDQW &RXQWU\ OLIH VWDUWV KHUH A one-hour scenic drive north of Auckland and 5 minutes from 0DWDNDQD WRZQVKLS \RX ZLOO À QG Plume Restaurant, an oasis for gourmet travellers in a coastal country setting. Recognised for its superb cuisine, and as the cellar door for Runner Duck Estate 9LQH\DUG¡V À QH ZLQHV 3OXPH Restaurant has gained quite a reputation.

Now, 12 new luxury Plume Villas, ranging from 1-3 bedrooms, have been added within the grounds.

These all share a swimming pool and are within a relaxed stroll of the restaurant. No matter the season or the length of your stay, you will À QG 3OXPH 9LOODV D FRPIRUWDEOH place to base yourself while enjoying the many delights nearby, including the fabulous food and wine at Plume Restaurant. $OUHDG\ ERDVWLQJ D SULYDWH OLJKW À OOHG function room, Plume Restaurant has just become the perfect venue for weddings, conferences, meetings and private events set within a peaceful country location.

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Cellar door Plume Restaurant 09 422 7915

GARY STEEL: VEG FRIENDLY

One step beyond burger The second part of our interview with Lord Of The Fries’ Bruce Craig.

A lot of people just don’t get the point of mock meats, but the fact is there’s a worldwide food revolution towards plant-based food that looks and tastes quite a bit like the flesh of animals. Because I don’t like the taste or texture of meat, I’m in the minority that quite happily substitutes with protein-rich alternatives like lentils or tofu, but most of us are raised to love meat and it’s drummed into us from an early age.

Mock meat may not be for me, but it’s hugely useful for the legions of humans who have been deeply conditioned by their parents to adore the taste and texture of animal flesh but want to transition to eating a more environmentally sustainable and ethical food source.

There have been questions lately about the origin and efficacy of mock meat, however, so it’s great to be assured that all Lord Of The Fries products are carefully sourced.

“We don’t uses any of the Chinese mock meats because a lot of them have chemicals in them that we’ve never heard of,” says Bruce Craig, New Zealand owner of Lord Of The Fries. “Not that they’re necessarily bad, but we try to keep it as pure as we can for the taste and consistency we need. Ours are all either made by us or made by a couple of big companies, one in South Africa and one in Canada. The South African one makes the hot dogs and that’s a fries factory. And Lord Of The Fries patties are made by a Melbourne vegan company that have been supplying LOTF since it opened.”

Bruce is clear about what LOTF is not, however, and that’s health food. “We’re doing it by stealth if you like, we’re not trying to change people’s eating habits, we’re just trying to offer them the same comfort foods but from a plant-based source. Obviously there are lots of places that do amazing raw and healthy food. I just call our food ‘healthier’, because it’s healthier than going to get a McDonald’s burger or a beef and cheeseburger, and there’s no GMs or dodgy chemicals. I think that the key is... part of our ethos is that it’s comfort food, and it’s plant-based comfort food, but it’s still not... don’t live off it every day! You’re going to get fat!”

Then there’s their optional Beyond Burger with its very realistic-looking patty that, while it doesn’t actually drip ‘blood’ like the infamous American Impossible Burger, does manage to exude a pinkish colour (apparently derived from beetroots). I tried one and it was so meaty that I almost gagged.

For Bruce, LOTF presents a challenge to New Zealand meat-and-milk-based agriculture: “Veganism is something we believe in, and as a country and a world if we don’t transition to plant-based proteins we’re going to be screwed, and I want to do my part and this is a good way to do it. And what we’ve proved is that we just can’t produce enough protein out of animal husbandry to feed everyone. I think over the next five or 10 years New Zealand should look very strongly at what we’re doing with our primary agriculture, because we PN can’t just keep going. Even dairy should change to plant-based milks.” (GARY STEEL) F Gary Steel is an Auckland-based journalist who runs online vegetarian resource www.doctorfeelgood.co.nz.

He can be contacted via beautmusic@gmail.com

@ SABATO The Pons family have been pressing olive oil for four generations.

Based in Lleida, near Barcelona, Spain, the family have 250 hectares of land mostly dedicated to organic crops.

One of the best loved products here at Sabato is the Pons black truffle infused oil. This oil is a versatile ingredient made with extra virgin olive oil and slowly infused with real black truffles. Below are a few of our favourite uses: • For a luxurious breakfast, use Pons black truffle oil to cook softly scrambled eggs and finish with a pinch of truffle salt or powder.

• Add a drizzle of truffle oil to any mushroom-based pasta or risotto dishes for an added flavour boost.

• Wrap asparagus spears with prosciutto and brush lightly with extra virgin olive oil.

Flash under a grill or quickly barbeque and season with salt, pepper and a drizzle of truffle oil to serve.

• Blanch broccoli or cauliflower florets for a couple of minutes and arrange on a baking tray. Drizzle over the truffle oil. Top with a grating of Parmigiano Reggiano. Bake in the oven on high till crisp and golden.

• Dress El Navarrico large white beans with a splash of truffle oil and verjuice whisked together. Crumble over some crisped prosciutto and chopped parsley and serve with crusty bread.

• Quarter small, new potatoes and place in a roasting pan with a peeled and thinly sliced onion. Add a little extra virgin olive oil over, season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat and cook for 40 minutes at 180°C or until potatoes are lightly browned and cooked through. Drizzle well with truffle oil and serve.

• Black truffle oil is perfect also when used to finish mashed potato, polenta dishes or pizza - a decadent way to enhance your cooking!

Sabato will celebrate with 25% OFF the Pons range, both in-store and online, from 1-14 September 2018 (excluding Pons wine and trade purchases).

For more recipe ideas and ingredients visit us in-store or on our website www.sabato.co.nz SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 8751

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz

Retail, restaurants and recreation all on your doorstep ™ ™ ™ ™ ™

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

HUNGRY & FEELING THIRSTY? We are spoilt for choice!

THERE ARE NOW 254 PLACES IN THE WESTERN BAYS, WHERE YOU CAN EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY. They are all listed in the Ponsonby Little Black Book... ponsonbynews.co.nz/ponsonby-little-black-book The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

Sicilian wine It’s Italian time at Glengarry in September, with a host of promotions and tastings all around Italian wine.

Whilst all the usual suspects will be there, Chianti, Barolo and Amarone, there will be a lot of new wines as well.

Last year we started to import the wines from Terrazze dell’Etna, who are nestled on the slopes of Sicily’s Mt Etna, and this year we have further extended our range of their wines, as well as more from Sicily.

Sicily is an ancient viticultural region, grapes on the island far before the Greeks were. Much of the recent excitement around the wines from Sicily is based around the volcanic soils at the base of Mt Etna on the western side of the island. Though historically it was Marsala that Sicily was known for.

Marsala is a fortified wine that, sadly, along with its cousins port, sherry and Madeira, is not experiencing the best of times, with Marsala the hardest hit of all. You see, Marsala is far more than a fortified wine for glazing the pan with after frying your pork steak.

It’s a spectacular fortified wine, with the very best sitting alongside the finest wines in the world. There are many grape varieties used in the production of Marsala, the most prominent is Grillo. Grillo can also be found as a still white wine, which is a fascinating, rather oily, charming white wine.

There are different classifications for Marsala, the first being colour.

Oro has a golden colour; Ambra, an amber colour which comes from a grape-based sweetener than adds the colour; and Rubino, which is red, coming from red grape varieties that are added to the wine.

The next classification is the ageing one. There is Fine, which is aged for at least one year; Superiore, which is aged for at least two years; and Superiore Riserva, which is aged for at least four years.

The next designation is the use of a solera or not. There’s a raft of classifications that then follow the solera aged Marsala. Marsala can be enjoyed in much the same way as a great port or beautiful sherry.

Historically the prominent red variety was Nero d’Avola, a hearty red that is the most popular non-fortified style on the island. A great example of this variety from Sicily is the Terrelíade Nero d’Avola. With an ability to ripen without roasting and retain acidity at the same time, this variety is well-suited to Sicily’s sun-drenched vineyards. The resulting wine is rich, pungent and earthy, with a plush and beguiling sweetness.

Though there are still great Nero d’Avola wines made on Sicily, it is the reds from the indigenous red variety Nerello Mascalese that are gaining a lot of international interest. This variety, along with Nerello Cappucino, produces wines that are generally light in colour with vibrant acidity. Wines from these varieties grown at the base of Mt Etna are often referred to as Italy’s answer to Burgundy. At Terrazze dell’Etna the terraces were established in the 1800s, with current owner, Nino Bevilacqua, purchasing the property in 2006 and transforming it into one of the area’s most sought-after producers.

Everything is done by hand, with no irrigation other than what drains down off the mountain itself. Thanks to the harsh volcanic ground, the viticulturalist needs to cut the roots of the, sometimes centuryold, vines to stop them growing sideways.

Whilst Nerello-based wines are what the area and Terrazze dell’Etna are known for today, historically it was sparkling wine production that reigned supreme. In September we have arriving some of the exceptional sparkling wines from Sicily and we can’t wait. They are super interesting high-quality wines.

Throughout September, as we celebrate all things Italian, we’ll have instore tastings and a host of tasting events around the Glengarry PN stores. (LIZ WHEADON) F For all details www.glengarry.co.nz/events

Y A TA S TE O F S IC IL

TERRAZZE DELL ETNA CARUSU ROSSO 2013 T E R R A Z Z E D E L L E T N A C U V E E B R U T M E TA D O C L A S S I C O T R A D I T I O N A L E TERRELIADE NIRA NERO D’AVOL A 2013 F LO R I O M A R S A L A TA R G A 1 8 4 0

FINE WINE DELIVERED SINCE 1945 | WWW.GLENGARRY.CO.NZ

44 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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P: 0800 733 505

| E: SALES@ GLENGARRY.CO.NZ

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TINA PLUNKETT: PONSONBY CENTRAL

KEEPING IT GREEN From the first day of conception, Ponsonby Central has striven to create a environment that is kind to our Earth. From recycled and upcycled building materials through to how our waste is managed.

Ponsonby Central works closely with sustainable packaging companies like Innocent packaging to make sure your food is packaged into the right products, any disposable containers are biodegradable and, where possible, plant-based.

We also compost food scraps, organic waste and spoiled foods through the guys at We Compost.

In conjunction with our sustainable food and packaging drive there are new bike stands installed and two new bus routes operating making it easier and more accessible to get to Ponsonby Central.

Our restaurants and cafes have also embraced this change in hospitality direction, small but important changes like no plastic straws, less packaging, using paper bags, bamboo-based utensils and of course the best and easiest way, encouraging eating in with zero waste.

• All of our cafes use and encourage permanent cup systems, whether it’s a keep cup or just a old mug with a cat on it from the staff coffee cupboard.

• Recycled cooking oil: All used cooking oil is collected and made into bio-diesel.

• All cardboard is collected and recycled into new packaging.

• All our glass bottles, tin cans, and hard plastics (1-7) are also collected for recycling.

• Our restaurants know and follow the ethical supply chain with their protein and meat products. Sourcing through Neat Meat there is a simple chain ensuring that the ingredients sourced are organic and cruelty free. Only the best.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY?

I see red. (I see red, I see red) Red wines for spring Spring is pretty well in the air now. The magnolias are blooming, the daffs are out and spring lambs are gambolling in the paddocks. But it’s still a good time for red wines.

Before we segue into summer temperatures, it’s good to enjoy some hearty reds or even a lightly chilled rosé.

Here’s a selection of some great reds that I have sampled recently.

Coopers Creek Huapai Rosé 2016 - $21 Made from a blend of malbec and merlot from Cooper’s estate vineyard in Huapai, northwest Auckland. Very fresh and hugely drinkable. Typical strawberries and cream aromas. And unlike the current trend for bone dry acidic rosé, this one is just nudging sweet with a fruity ripe palate of red berry fruit and cranberry with a crisp finish.

Drink with chicken, salads or seafood.

Availability: cooperscreek.co.nz Scott Base Central Otago Pinot Noir 2017 - $29.99 From the Allan Scott family winery, one of the first independent wineries to be established in Marlborough in 1990. Aromas of ripe cherries and raspberries with a hint of smoky spice. Soft, medium palate of red fruit, black cherry and a hint of tar. Drink with duck, lamb or ratatouille.

Widely available at supermarkets and Glengarry.

Wolf Blass Gold Label Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 - $27.99 Wolfgang Blass was born in Germany. He studied winemaking in Germany, moved to the Barossa Valley in 1961 and just five years later, he launched what was to become one of Australia’s most famous labels.

This wine smells of cassis, plums and cellar dust. Typical big Aussie red, with a ripe plummy palate of blackcurrant and black cherry compote and medium tannic finish. Drink with pepper steak, venison or rich tomato-based pasta.

Availability: Widely available at supermarkets and Glengarry.

Vidal Legacy Hawkes Bay Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot 2016 - $64.99 Vidal Estate is part of the Villa Maria portfolio, producing premium wines under renowned winemaker Hugh Crichton. With vineyards in the Gimblett Gravels appellation, the focus here is sturdy red wines.

This one: plums and spice on the nose. Opens up with firm grippy tannins as big bold wine. Flavours of Christmas cake, tobacco, dark fruit and plums. Definitely one to put away for two-three years. Drink with steak, or a hearty beef casserole.

Availability: Widely available and at Glengarry. (PHIL PARKER) F PN

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

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

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

Boutique tours for small and large groups.

E: Phil@finewinetours.co.nz

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

www.finewinetours.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

THE HIDDEN CORNERS OF NORTH AMERICA Canada and the US are overflowing with well-beaten paths to the big cities and theme parks, but if you step off that path in search of a little quirkiness here, an undiscovered gem there, you are actually spoilt for choice!

Here are a few of our favourite hidden corners of North America: Matanuska Susitna Valley, Alaska The towering mountains and huge glaciers aren’t the limit of all things big in this corner of south central Alaska. Alaska’s long summer days, with up to 20 hours of sunlight a day, give rise to some freakishly large vegetable crops which have to be seen to be believed. Take time to discover quaint frontier communities, and time your visit for the Alaska State Fair in August/September to marvel at the giant specimens.

Victoria, Vancouver Island, BC Canada Beautiful as they are, there’s more to Victoria than Butchart Gardens!

Getting there is half the fun - our pick is a 25-minute float-plane ride, but there’s a new leisurely three-hour boat service from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria which allows whale-watching en route! Once there, there are beautiful beaches, incredible foodie tours of bohemian eateries, bike tours (its flat), a thriving craft beer scene and so much more.

Molokai Island, Hawaii Hawaii’s fifth largest island, Molokai remains true to its island roots with no traffic lights, no high-rises, and a slower pace - you could say it’s the 'original' Hawaii. “Talk story” with the locals and you’ll hear legends and lore of days gone by. Swim or snorkel in the sparkling turquoise-blue waters at Papohaku Beach or enjoy unique shopping and museums in the charming town of Manaloa.

Quebec City, Canada Although a major city such as Quebec could never be described as 'hidden', many travellers never make it to Eastern Canada, and that’s a crime! Quebec City is the oldest walled city in North America and the absolute heart of French Canadian culture. Steeped in history, Quebec City is over 400 years old and most of the original

architecture has been lovingly preserved - the entire old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best explored on foot, head for the Petit Champlain district’s cobblestone streets with their bistros and boutiques, or linger in a sidewalk cafe to enjoy the lively musicians and street theatre on summer days.

Banff, Alberta, Canada Banff is a mountain resort town with more souvenir shops than you can shake a stick at, but wander off the main street and you’ll find a wilder side to Banff. The surrounding 6500km2 of Banff National Park are home to wildlife including elk and grizzly bears - it's no wonder the local tourist board’s slogan is “This Place is Alive!”. Spend your days hiking, biking or soaking in the world-famous hot springs, then dine in one of the towns many eateries - you can’t go wrong with Alberta beef! Just don’t be surprised to find an elk wandering down the street on your way home.

PN (CAROLINE CLEGG, WORLD JOURNEYS) F

GRAND RAIL CIRCLE TOUR All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train for a round-trip from Vancouver to explore Banff and stunning Lake Louise. Experience the best of BC and Alberta as you travel the Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies and the alpine resort of Whistler.

13 DAY TOUR WITH ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

CANADA BY RAIL The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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ROSS THORBY: SEA FEVER

Hilo's 1946 tsunami

Hilo's tsunami siren

Little did we know that the lava bubbling just below the fragile crust was ready to explode so spectacularly in 2018.

The beautiful island chain of Hawaii is renowned for its landscape - extensive forests, swaying palm trees and clear waters with frothy surf crashing onto white sandy beaches - however, that landscape can be changed within a matter of minutes by a single cataclysmic event - a volcanic eruption.

Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano, situated on the Big Island of Hawaii just above the town of Hilo, has been erupting since 1983 and when we visited during the World Cruise in 2017, little did we know that the lava bubbling just below the fragile crust was ready to explode so spectacularly in 2018.

Two million visitors a year come to see Hawaii’s 'les enfants terribles' - Kilauea Volcano and, if you are lucky enough to leave port at night, you can sometimes see terrific displays of the lava exiting subterranean tunnels and seeping into the sea in an explosion of steam and bubbling water.

But while others from the ship raced to see the lava flows and steam vents of the Kilauea Volcanic Park, a group of us opted for a walking tour of another of Hilo’s natural threats.

Situated on a funnel shaped bay, the sleepy community of Hilo is trapped between the volcano on one side and the equally destructive Pacific on the other. The only protection, a huge breakwater protecting the fishing boats and port area. The long sail-in along the waterfront affords a leisurely view of the subtropical vegetation growing up from the black soil and ancient volcanic flows punctuated by the flimsy looking clapboard residences and buildings of Hilo’s outlying suburbs.

The 'Big Island' has always been vulnerable to the sea and Hilo in particular has had two devastating tsunamis in the last 80 years.

One, caused by an earthquake off the coast of Chile in1960, causing a 35 foot wave to race at 400 miles an hour towards Hawaii. It hit Hilo killing 61 people and the other previous and more famous one, hit on April Fools Day, 1946. That was caused by a smaller 7.1 magnitude quake in Alaska. It killed 159.

Smaller it may have been, but it created a much larger 50-foot wave which travelled down from Alaska and completely swamped the CBD, obliterating the railway line and first two blocks of businesses

Hilo's sedate waterfront

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

that lined the waterfront. The remaining shops all the way back to the foothills were flooded and 159 people lost their lives from the onslaught of the seven following waves which battered the community over an agonising and desperate 15-minute period. Curious crowds of people who had come down to the waterfront to watch the event were swept away in the ensuing waves including one resident who was washed out of her home and was found by the Coast Guard floating out to sea on her screen door - alive but shaken.

The complete landscape of the town was changed permanently and the destroyed area has now been turned into parkland, partly in memoriam to those killed and partly as a buffer zone for future events. The town now boasts an extensive flood relief system of drains and dykes built by the army for a town that nervously awaits the next big one.

What were once secondary shops behind the main area, have now found themselves in the forefront of the commercial district - the landscape which is mainly older-style buildings, is not sullied by developers or cheap modern constructions, it seems as though the developers have stayed away and the area now basks in its early century retro feel of markets, old wooden shop fronts and art deco concrete buildings that managed to survive the various floods and waves.

Here also, is The Tsunami Museum which is located in an old bank building that survived both events, it is well worth the visit with an extensive array of photographs and recordings of survivors recounting their experiences. It is a heart rending and sobering experience and you can’t help being moved, especially considering our own vulnerability and threats from Mother Nature here in New Zealand. The museum includes several interactive exhibits where you can experience tsunami and its after-effects giving the experience even more poignancy.

Whilst some ships have cancelled calls to the port, other more adventurous tourists have travelled to the area to fly over and view the latest volcanic flows - where you can also look down and see the altered landscape from the Big Island’s other looming threat...

PN Hilo, visit it before the next big wave... of tourists. (ROSS THORBY) F

Hilo's Tsunami Museum PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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1-3. Jonny 4higher, Ponsonby’s favourite mural painter, recently returned from painting murals in the Orient. Here I am photographed enjoying the magazine in BANGKOK, HONG KONG, and the ancient city known as the 'Venice of the East' - Suzhou, CHINA. 4-5. Ian Towning outside Bourbon Hanby, CHELSEA and also pictured Ian Towning and Claudiu.

6. Michael Dow has been to Greenwich Park with his Ponsonby News as the park has a lovely view of LONDON. 7. A big thank you to British artist Duggie Fields for sending us a photo of him with the July issue of Ponsonby News. Duggie Fields has lived in the same flat in EARLS COURT since the 1960s when he shared the flat with Pink Floyd founder Syd Barrett.

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8-9. We wanted to share some holiday pictures with the PN readers.

We went on a trip of a lifetime safari to KENYA and TANZANIA in July.

We have included two pictures, one is of us showing some local landmarks like St Matthews in the city in to a lovely Maasai family and the other is us enjoying a 'picnic' in between safari drives at Ngorongoro crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and one of the best places to see the big five. We booked through Gaynor at Ponsonby House of Travel so if you could please give them a shout out, they did a great job. Thanks heaps, Rebecca and Philip Lee from Grey Lynn.

Dear readers, please keep sending us your holiday snaps reading your favourite magazine, we love getting them! Photos need to be in high resolution (300dpi), so please email them to info@ponsonbynews.co.nz without reducing the size.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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FASHION + STYLE @ DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND 1

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@ STEP INN SHOES 2

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Step Inn Shoes Auckland, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby

4. Gabor Gay available in black and silver - $229

Ph 09 360 5512

5. Hogl Rosie available in floral silk, exclusive to Step Inn Shoes - $365 6. Lesana Lana available in denim, green, orange and pewter - $195 7. Mephisto Daniele exclusive to Step Inn Shoes - $420 8. United Nude Rico available in 3 colours - $299

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

MONDAY TO FRIDAY: 9am to 5pm SATURDAY: 9am to 4pm SUNDAY: 11am to 3pm

Step Inn Shoes www.stepinnshoes.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE WHAT’S BEHIND THE BLUEDOOR...?

Bluedoor was inspired when Sarah Oxley stumbled across a character-filled space tucked away in Blake Street, Ponsonby.

Bluedoor is a carefully curated celebration of New Zealand design, where fashion and homewares are sold alongside an evolving creative workspace.

Sarah is not new to New Zealand fashion following a 15-year career in the film industry, she moved to Kerikeri to raise her four children.

At that time, Northlanders had nowhere to buy New Zealand designer clothing, so in 2004 Sarah opened RIVER (www.riverclothing.co.nz) in her backyard shed, stocking top New Zealand designers: Standard Issue, Cybele and Nom*d to name a few.

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When Sarah moved to Auckland, RIVER moved with her and is now a popular store in the heart of Parnell.

Despite moving to the city, Sarah still holds the same ethos from the original RIVER backyard shed and that history has shaped much of bluedoor’s curation.

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To complement the well-known names of New Zealand designer clothing, Sarah looked for local homewares with genuine stories behind them, digging for those best kept secrets - the garden shed makers and creators. Her ceramics come from Peter Baigent on Waiheke Island, who makes moulds for his vases from living lancewood and nikau. Handwoven throws and blankets come from Hohepa Rose Weavery in the Hawkes Bay, and the art pieces are made by Jasmine Clarke in Arrowtown, who works with natural and found materials. Beautiful George Street Linen complements our quality homewares.

Ultimately, bluedoor represents everything that Sarah is passionate about. New Zealand designer clothing alongside locally sourced homeware, with room for creation in the workspace out the back. All this presented in a relaxed and welcoming space where she looks forward to people dropping in for a browse and a chat. F PN BLUEDOOR, 1 Blake Street, Ponsonby T: 09 218 2222, E: shop@bluedoor.co.nz, www.bluedoor.co.nz

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1. Hohepa handwoven throw; 2. Ceramic dishes by Peter Baigent; 3. Organic cotton Turkish towels by Ottoloom; 4. Kowtow building block boat neck top; 5. Linen/cotton blend Lucky Skirt by Nyne and Nikau Vase by Peter Baigent; 6. Natural shampoo/soap bars by Dirty Hippie

FASHION | HOMEWARE 1 BLAKE STREET, PONSONBY

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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FASHION + STYLE NEW SEASON DESIGNS INSTORE

@ MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING

Magazine Designer Clothing offers a range of beautiful designer clothing from size 10-26 which is predominantly New Zealand designed and made, including our own label ‘Magazine’.

From casual lifestyle clothing through to fabulous special occasion wear, specialising in mother of the bride and groom and guests.

It’s all happening at Magazine... perfect trans-seasonal pieces have arrived from their fabulous designers and labels - something for every spring and summer occasion including subtle floral prints, beautiful silks, beautiful lace detailing, and of course lashings of colour. ”Magazine has a fabulous range of special occasion through to contemporary lifestyle and casual wear - instore now. The selection available is superb - we are excited with our latest exclusive collections and know you will be too.“ Magazine also carrys an exquisite range of accessories including jewellery, fascinators and bags to complement every outfit.

The Magazine Designer Clothing experience is about helping you find your perfect style, no matter your size, age or the occasion you’re shopping for. It stocks a stunning range of flattering and feminine contemporary looks, with 10 stores across New Zealand. The expert in store stylists will work with you to really understand your needs and ensure you look and feel fabulous every time you shop with Magazine. F PN

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937 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 5354, 4 Byron Ave, Takapuna, T: 09 488 0406, (Two customer carparks), www.magazineclothing.co.nz Other Stores: Pukekohe, Mt Maunganui, Hamilton, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Christchurch. Outlet Stores: Onehunga, Taihape

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Zaket and Plover Floral Kaftan Mis Euphoria Play Top Chocolat Powder Room Honey Tunic Dress Lemon Tree Harper Top and Singlet Chocolat Bungalow Dress

MAGAZINE DESIGNER CLOTHING, 4 Byron Avenue, Takapuna, T: 09 488 0406, 937 Mt Eden Road, T: 09 630 5354, www.magazineclothing.co.nz Sizes 10-26 available.

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE @ CARATS

A selection of Carats Jewellery's beautiful creations from past and present.

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

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FASHION + STYLE

JULIETTE HOGAN’S NEW PONSONBY ADDRESS Juliette Hogan has opened the door to a new Ponsonby Road store, showcasing her summer 2018 collection.

Joining Huffer at the redeveloped Ponsonby Fire Station, 182 Ponsonby Road, the stunning new space takes inspiration from the clean and modern lines of the Juliette Hogan Wellington store and reflects the ease, elegance and refinement of her latest collection.

The store was designed by Juliette herself, alongside Nat Cheshire, with the fit-out managed by interior designer Pip Maxwell. New Zealand design is showcased in the space with furniture from Simon James and fixtures by Mark Antonia. The space is at once modern and inviting with oak accents lending warmth and a salon feel.

The bright and spacious new store is just a short stroll along the street from the original Juliette Hogan store. The original character filled corner site served the business well over the last 11 years.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Juliette reflects fondly on a time when the workroom was run from the space above the store, and she was living a stone’s throw away in her first apartment on Collingwood Street.

As the business grew over the past decade, the JH workroom was moved to Mt Eden, and the upstairs space was then converted to a showroom for the brand's bespoke bridal service. While it has been emotional to say goodbye to a location that has been such an integral part of the brand (and designer’s) history, the new location at 182 Ponsonby Road certainly reflects the luxury and detail that Juliette Hogan is now synonymous with.

Discover the new Juliette Hogan summer collection in its new Ponsonby location at 182 Ponsonby Road, www.juliettehogan.com

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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FASHION + STYLE @ ZEBRANO

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1. Jungle Maxi Dress from Zebrano - $299; 2. Banana Blue - Dress in Cactus Print - $437; 3. Chocolat - Powder Room Honey Duster - $397 and Powder Room Honey Dress - $397 4. Euphoria - Gogo Dress - $419; 5. Hissy Shift Dress - Curate - $179; 6. Lemon Tree - Shelby Denim Jacket - $227; 7. Obi-Springs Maxi Dress - $299; 8. Megan Salmon - Masterpiece Tulip Dress - $479; 9. Siren - Pink Denim Jacket - $169 ZEBRANO, 10 Kingdon Street, Newmarket, T: 09 523 2500, www.zebrano.co.nz

56 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HEALTH + BEAUTY

CLEAN BEAUTY IS HERE We’re all aware of what we eat (organic where possible) and exercise when we can (even if it’s a struggle), try to moderate our alcohol intake (yes, there are antioxidants in red wine) because we care about our wellbeing. But did you know that your skin is your largest organ?

Every time a product comes into contact with your skin you are exposing it to the potential toxins that lie within. Scary, right?

Some scientists have suggested a possible connection between the potentially harmful ingredients in some antiperspirants with breast cancer.

Forme Spa & Wellbeing is really conscious to provide products and services that not only make you look and feel good, but that are also good for your wellbeing. It investigates to see what products contain and aim to bring you the best of nature plus science, avoiding the ingredients not largely considered clean, without compromising the effectiveness of the products.

With an assortment of natural, organic and clean products there are plenty of options. At this time it is conducting a major audit with a view to move to an even more clean offering in the future. The current line-up contains a number of nutritional supplements to promote skin health and wellbeing from the inside as well as what is applied to the skin topically.

According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress is linked to the six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide. More than 75% of all doctors office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.

Going back in time, a visit to the ‘beauty parlour’ was seen as a frivolous luxury where ladies went to pamper themselves.

Nowadays, it is much more the domain for men and women to not only rejuvenate their appearance, but even more importantly, manage their stress levels.

With more and more people living in isolation, social contact and human touch is often overlooked. An hour of massage can help reduce tension and stress levels and also create that nurturing

human connection that many miss in their lives. It’s not an indulgence, but just another part of your wellbeing toolkit.

As a way of making spa visits more accessible, Forme Spa & Wellbeing has come up with a clever concept called Belong. It’s easy to sign up with just a $10 joining fee, and in return you receive a monthly facial or massage at a heavily discounted price from just $59.

You only need to commit to three months, so it’s a great way to make a commitment for your own health and wellbeing.

Looking after your wellbeing and clean beauty is a way of life that consists of one day at a time, making good choices when possible and nurturing yourself with kindness. F PN

FORME SPA & WELLBEING, 39 Spring Street, Ponsonby (next to Eco Store), T: 09 378 8682, plus six other Auckland locations, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch, www.formespa.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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HEALTH + BEAUTY BODY AND MIND FOR LIFE Are you overweight, stressed or unhappy?

If your answer is yes, here’s the good news: You can make a change for the better by taking charge of your body and mind. Toxins, bad eating habits, sedentary and stressful lifestyles are a major contributor to obesity, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, depression and much more. For you to be well - in body and mind - you need to address all of that.

Anita Hollerer-Squire, founder of Body & Mind For Life, has made it her mission to help people with just that. She draws on her skills and international experience as a Clinical Weight Loss Practitioner, Wellness Coach, Personal Trainer and Life Coach and uses a holistic approach that will have you feeling better, looking better and being more energetic in no time at all.

Her coaching sessions are popular for a reason - they are engaging and deliver enduring results. Her clients achieve transformations that last a lifetime. She was recently asked to assist Auckland Sports with their Green Prescription programme, which resulted in rave reviews and requests for further input.

Best of all, her programmes are open to anybody who wants to make a change and create the life they truly love.

Mention this article and get the first life or wellness coaching session absolutely FREE. Get in touch with Anita - chances are it will be one of the best decisions you will ever make! F PN Anita Hollerer-Squire, Founder of Body & Mind For Life, M: 027 607 3090, E: info@bodymindforlife.com, www.bodymindforlife.com

AVAILABLE AT SHOUT HAIR...

Spring brings a lightness of spirit and energy. Good time to loosen up your hair cut or look at reinventing your hair colour. Gold and strawberry tones work well in spring.

Try Kevin Murphy's Sugared Angel conditioner for beige/gold, or Autumn Angel for an PN apricot/rose. F

58 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HEALTH + BEAUTY TRUE PILATES WELCOMES ROSE CASTRO-CASTILLO Spring is here and summer isn’t far away, so if you’ve lapsed into inactivity over winter, now is the perfect time to get back into a fitness regime to revive your body and mind for the beach season.

That’s where True Pilates can help. Conveniently located in the heart of Herne Bay, this bespoke studio teaches the authentic method of Pilates. It’s renowned for its speciality private lessons, with duet and group classes also available.

The True Pilates team is delighted to welcome a new face to the studio.

Instructor Rose Castillo hails from the stunning country of Chile and now calls New Zealand home after travelling the world working as a dancer, Zumba instructor and actress.

SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER...

New clients to the studio...

.. _hk Z ikboZm^ Û klm e^llhg (Normally $85) September 2018 only

Contact Lisa to book

info@truepilatesnz.co.nz | 021 202 4034

Rose connected with Pilates while studying circus arts to help her gain strength, control, balance and confidence, and it’s these benefits that Rose wants to transfer to her clients.

Passionate about Pilates, Rose thrives on helping others to live happier and healthier lives, and her vibrant and easy-going personality has already attracted a devoted following.

If you are new to True Pilates and would like to book your first session with Rose, talk to us about our spring offer. F PN TRUE PILATES, 155 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, M: 021 027 751 98, www.truepilatesnz.co.nz

The Accent Is On YOU! Cosmetic Dentistry, Hygienist, Family Dentistry, 1- Hour Crowns.

Over 100 Google Reviews from happy clients: “If you are looking for the best dentist in town, look no further, ring Accent Dental and ask for Matt now!” – Melanie H

BOOK ONLINE

Visit: bit.ly/bookapptonline

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DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

59

HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY

Heavenly Spring Spa I am unashamed to say that I have never met a Spring Spa location I haven’t fallen in love with at first sight and the still relatively new Spring Ponsonby is no different.

All the Spring destinations are most definitely of the 'happy place' variety, and I recommend them to everyone I meet who is looking for some dedicated 'me' time, be they in Bali, Queenstown or now, on Ponsonby Road.

A totally serene and caring environment amidst the hustle of the main strip, the new Spring destination is based on the concept of a social spa, like its sisters, and a move away from traditional spa formalities. Officially taking the title of Spring’s largest spa, the new space next to Prego (perfect for popping in for a pedicure pre- or post-meal?) is not only home to all the traditional Spring treatments, but a selection of new ones too and exciting additions are being added to the menu all the time.

Designed by Hannah Warren, the space is warm and welcoming, with just the right balance of neutral tones and pops of colour to keep guests chilled and happy. As well as a spacious waiting area, there are eight treatment rooms, social areas for the likes of reflexology, manicures and pedicures, a state-of-the-art, custom-designed spray tan facility that I can’t wait to try, and shelves dripping with the tried and true cult products that are used in many of their services. Brands on offer include Votary from the UK and luxe haircare name Oribe, which plays a key role in a scalp massage that is part of their current Winter Luxury Escape promotion.

Spring is the stroke of genius of the always-charming and ridiculously clever Ina Bajaj, the creator of the world-renowned East Day Spa. So despite the fact that they are quite a different beauty destination to East, they provide the same high standards of treatment and superior levels of service East is famous for, but with what they call “a Spring spin”.

Both spa-focused brands offer decadent and efficacious Codage facials, which is what I last visited the space for one hurried Monday afternoon.

Codage is a Parisian beauty house that believes beauty isn’t only skin deep, with a holistic and all-round approach towards skincare mixed with a touch of French chic.

Inspired by traditional French apothecary, the brother and sister team behind Codage has created a line of products with innovative, active ingredients that are selected to calm redness, improve pigmentation, resurface and balance skin. As well as offering facial treatments, Spring Spa carries Codage’s collection of 'prêt-a-porter' serums that each offer a blend of two or three active ingredients to help solve different skin issues, as well as an assembly of cleansers, masks and creams with the same clean, natural formulations that eschew parabens and other known allergens and toxins.

My booking on the day was for a Codage Anti-Ageing Facial, which Spring calls their “supreme anti-ageing treatment”. It is designed to stimulate cell renewal and reduce fine

60 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

lines, dark spots and blemishes and includes a micropeel with combined AHA, BHA and fruit enzyme action to lighten and soften. Super nourishing as well as transformative, it aims to deliver an end result that is “youthful, uniform and glowing,” and who am I to argue with that?

My facialist Kadek - the first male therapist that has ever worked on my skin - took one look at my reactive tendencies and decided to change things up a little from the usual protocol, reducing the strength of the peel by watering it down slightly, and applying it strategically and carefully at every step. The end result was amazing - and the plumpness and dewiness lasted long after I left the room, making it a great choice if you have something special on and want to do you, with a little extra. That’s what happens when you have a trained skin specialist on hand rather than someone that has just learned the ropes - his intuitive approach meant that I got a bespoke facial all of my own and the best result on the day. Added on was a Codage Bright Eyes eye-contour treatment to target the likes of fine lines and erase traces of fatigue, with gentle massage and a serum used around my eyes that also faded my dark circles and reduced the puffiness from sitting in front of a screen for hours on end.

I’ve loved every minute of the time I’ve spent in Spring Spas around the country and in Bali, and the Ponsonby destination is no different. A hugely welcome addition to the strip and already one of the most-recommended beauty names in the ‘hood, visits to my local Spring are a new habit that I’m looking forward to embracing wholeheartedly.

(HELENE RAVLICH) F PN www.springspa.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HEALTH + BEAUTY

BROWS THAT TURN HEADS With life getting busier and eyebrows getting thicker, it’s no wonder that semi-permanent make-up is on the rise.

Microblading (also known as feathering) is a form of semi-permanent tattoo which mimics real hair using strategically -placed, detailed stroke work. The result?

Full, symmetrically shaped brows, or as the young ones would say - “brows on fleek”.

Trained in the fashion and beauty Mecca of Los Angeles in microblading, as well as a New Zealand-qualified clinical prescribing optometrist, Jason Dhana combined his passion for detailed artwork with his steady hand to create Blade.

“Even subtle changes to your eyebrows can make all the difference to your appearance and make your morning routine just that little bit easier. Gone are the days of faded, permanent and discoloured eyebrow tattoos. We’re all about natural low-maintenance eyebrows with beautiful shape, proportions and colour to match the client’s facial architecture. An advantage is that this procedure is semi-permanent, lasting around 18 months depending on your skin type, before fading away.” says Jason As a self-confessed perfectionist, Jason’s artistic skills are further complemented by his background as a health professional. “This is probably what sets me apart from other microbladers. I’m used to dealing with the eye area, which is delicate. I understand skin anatomy, healing and any complications, which are relatively rare but are important to know about.

Jason also welcomes male clientele who would like enhancement to their brows or correction of asymmetry and gaps.

BLADE, (Jason is based at Mood Skin Clinic), 653 Manukau Road, Royal Oak and is a member of the NZ Association of Beauty Professionals.

Visit www.bladebrows.co.nz or BladeBrows on Instagram/Facebook to book PN an appointment. Complementary consultations are welcome. F Make an appointment before the 31st October 2018, mention this offer and get $100 OFF your microblading session.

ONLINE S G N I K O O B 24/7 VISIT OUR WEBSITE

KEITHNELSON.CO.NZ THE DENTAL FAMILY FOR YOUR FAMILY The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

CONTACT US 09 378 0877 103 FRANKLIN ROAD FREEMANS BAY DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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HEALTH + BEAUTY NICOLA ROCHELLE LIFE COACHING Brand new to the Ponsonby area, Nicola Rochelle Life Coaching, now based in Westmere, works with people who are struggling to find their purpose in life, have lost a sense of meaning or are experiencing feelings of anxiety.

Life is full of pressure, pressure to be the perfect person, pressure to be fit and active, pressure to have a successful career, pressure to be in a happy and perfect relationship.

This pressure can potentially lead you into a career you don’t really want, living a life you don’t find fulfilling. Pushing these emotions away can lead to anxiety and feelings of low self-worth.

Everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life, but often achieving this is not straightforward. Life coaching can help you identify areas of your life causing you to feel unfulfilled. Nicola can work with you to develop your goals to make significant changes in your life, challenging your way of thinking and opening your mind up to new opportunities.

If you are overwhelmed, feeling stuck or lacking balance in your life, then it is a good time to think outside the box and look into coaching and the benefits it can have on your life.

Through coaching sessions with Nicola Rochelle Life Coaching, your values and life purpose are identified. Achievable action plans are created together to help you move towards a more fulfilling, balanced and happy life.

Living a life in alignment with your true purpose and values will give you meaning and purpose. This will help to alleviate the pressure and feelings of anxiety.

With a Graduate Diploma in Psychology and a registration with the International Coaching Federation, Nicola Rochelle Life Coaching offers holistic coaching sessions that involve all aspects of your life.

Contact Nicola at Nicola Rochelle Life Coaching to find out more about coaching or to PN arrange a FREE 60-minute session. F NICOLA ROCHELLE LIFE COACHING, M: 021 354 012, E: Nicola@nicolarochellecoaching.co.nz, www.nicolarochellecoaching.co.nz

@ ECOSTORE 1. Bulk Ultra Sensitive Glass Cleaner 5L, RRP $45.95 Promotional value $36.76 Save 20% between 3 and 16 September 2018.

Effective, fragrance-free formulation for a gleaming, streak-free finish on glass. Excellent results guaranteed every time. ecostore glass cleaner contains no added fragrance or unnecessary ingredients.

The easy-to-use trigger is also fully recyclable, as it contains no metal parts.

2. Ultra Sensitive Range available from ecostore Freemans Bay shop Save 20% between 3 and 16 September 2018.

A complete range for the home and body, formulated for sensitive skin. For the half a million New Zealanders with asthma, and the one-in-three with allergies, the Sensitive Choice® Blue Butterfly identifies products that have been rigorously assessed by an independent panel of health professionals, which is why we developed our Ultra Sensitive fragrance-free range to be extra gentle and just as effective - they’re a better choice for those with sensitivities.

021 354 012 nicola@nicolarochellecoaching.co.nz www.nicolarochellecoaching.co.nz

62 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HEALTH + BEAUTY COOLSCULPTING YOUR FAT AWAY AT PRESCRIPTION SKIN CARE TM

Reducing your body fat by simply freezing it sounds too good to be true. Yet it really is that easy.

In just one session of CoolSculptingTM at Prescription Skin Care, patients are able to reduce the amount of fat by 20% to 30%. There is very little to no discomfort, no anesthetic, no needles and no downtime.

Prescription Skin Care brought CoolSculptingTM to New Zealand seven years ago after hearing of this successful and safe fat-reduction method from their plastic surgical colleagues in America. Prescription Skin Care’s plastic surgical nurses are the most experienced at fat freezing in the country. They have trained in the latest CoolSculpting techniques in San Francisco and have treated thousands of patients successfully here in New Zealand.

CoolSculpting was developed by Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Scientists and is considered the Gold Standard in non-surgical fat reduction. It is FDA and TGA approved. That means it is approved for use in America, Australia and New Zealand by the medical governing authority.

The process • The patient attends a 45 minute complimentary consultation with one of the nurses at Prescription Skin Care in Ponsonby or Remuera.

• Once the patient is approved for treatment the patient chooses a date and time to suit them for treatment. Both clinics are open six days a week with some late nights.

• The patient lies on a bed and the area being treated is positioned into an applicator which holds the fat as the machine cools to the required temperature to initiate fat apoptosis (fat cell death). Treatment takes 30 to 45 minutes and the patient can read, sleep, watch a movie or talk on their phone.

Here’s how CoolSculptingTM works The CoolSculpting procedure targets and cools fat cells to temperatures that trigger fat cell apoptosis. No change to the appearance of nerves or other tissues because lipids in fat crystallise at a warmer temperature than water in other cell types.

Following treatments, fat cells enter an apoptosis weather sequence and are gradually removed by the body’s natural waste elimination process through the urine and lymphatic system in the next few weeks and months.

At three months post treatment the thickness of the fat layers is significantly reduced by 20% to 30%.

Some of the most popular areas treated: • Under the chin • Abdomen and back • Upper thighs • Upper arms Cost The initial consultation is free of charge. The cost of the procedure is evaluated and discussed at this consultation. It depends on what areas and how many as to what the final cost will be. Treatments start from $1000. Package and finance options are available and are discussed at the consultation.

Results from treatment at Prescription Skin Care

• When the applicator comes off the body, the area is massaged for a few minutes and the treatment is complete.

• Patients are asked to return three months after treatment to assess the area and view before and after photos of themselves.

Who is CoolSculptingTM for?

• Anyone who can’t get rid of areas of fat when diet and exercise hasn’t worked.

Before and after treatment of upper arms, 46-year-old female

• Mums wanting to get back into pre-pregnancy jeans.

• Those of us who want to reduce our double chin or reduce the wobble in their upper arms.

• Women planning a summer holiday where they want to look their best in a bikini. Yes, you can attain a thigh-gap.

• Anyone wanting to decrease the fat anywhere on their back or abdomen.

Before and after treatment to waist ‘love handles’, 76-year-old male.

PRESCRIPTION SKIN CARE, Ponsonby: 197 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 0400, E: ponsonby@prescriptionskincare.co.nz, Remuera: 243 Remuera Road, T: 09 529 5784, E: info@prescriptionskincare.co.nz, www.prescriptionskincare.co.nz

ELIMINATE STUBBORN FAT WITHOUT SURGERY OR DOWN TIME 4 MILLION SUCCESSFUL TREATMENTS WORLDWIDE FDA & TGA Approved

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Find out if coolsculpting is right for you...

Book a free consultation with a registered nurse at the Ponsonby or Remuera clinic Email: ponsonby@prescriptionskincare.co.nz T: 09 360 0400 | 197 Ponsonby Road www.prescriptionskincare.co.nz

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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JOHN APPLETON: ON HEALTH

Can we eat our way out of prison?

Our Minister of Justice Hon Andrew Little has laid out a vision for criminal justice reform saying “New Zealand needs to completely change the way criminal justice works.

"We know the majority of those in prisons have issues other than they are nasty people.

If we spent a bit of time on those things we can stop the offending.”

I wonder if the Hon Mr Little has put nutrition on the top of the list when it comes to spending time on the many health-related issues that are almost certainly related to criminal offending.

Our prison system is known as the ‘Department of Corrections’ yet I struggle to believe how it might be possible to correct the behaviour of our prison population by locking them up and feeding them crap. If there is any truth in the saying 'we are what we eat', surely the penny should have dropped by now and we should be investing heavily in what it takes to address anti-social behaviour with appropriate nutritional interventions.

Many studies have confirmed what ancient spiritual wisdom has taught us for millennia. Food affects your mood, emotions, thoughts and behaviour. Dr Stephen Schoenthaler, associate professor of sociology and coordinator of the Criminal Justice Studies Programme at California State University conducted studies over eight years which involved thousands of juvenile and adult prisoners. The results clearly show the relationship to diet and criminal behaviour with a 61% drop in violence and anti -social behaviour when the ‘junk’ that is passed off as food was replaced with complex carbohydrates and fresh fruits and vegetables. I think it would be true to say that our entire prison population in New Zealand is severely malnourished and this goes back to way before they were incarcerated.

Back in the 70s Dr Bill Walsh, an American scientist, studied mineral levels in the hair of 24 pairs of brothers. In each case one brother was ‘good’ and the other a ‘boy from hell’. The results stunned him. The ‘good’ boys had normal mineral levels, but the delinquents had two distinctive patterns. One group had very high copper and very low zinc, sodium and potassium and the other group had very low zinc and copper and very

high sodium and potassium. Interestingly the troublemakers had high lead and cadmium levels which were three times higher than their well-behaved brothers. Walsh extended his research to include adults, half of which were incarcerated criminals and half lawabiding citizens. He discovered behavioural traits that matched each mineral pattern.

People with very high copper and low zinc would have violent tendencies but later feel remorse. The people with the low copper, low zinc and high sodium and potassium were mean and cruel and they had no remorse.

It turned out that the violent kids were born with a metal metabolism disorder and as a result they had an inability to process minerals. An analysis of 207 patients with behavioural disorders treated at Dr Walsh’s clinic in Illinois showed that 92% who followed the prescribed diet improved significantly and 58% completely eliminated this type of behaviour.

Instead of having our prison population ‘sewing mail bags’ wouldn’t it be a really good idea to involve them in learning about nutrition and growing the foods that could provide the ‘ticket’ out of prison where they could perhaps look forward to a better life as responsible citizens.

If our Department of Corrections wants to live up to its name, our Minister of Justice could act on his words and 'completely change the way criminal justice works'. If we really want to reduce the prison population and avoid spending billions to build more prisons, now would be a really good time to invest in key issues that are linked to offending.

As to how this could happen, type 'Gangsta Gardener' into Google and watch this heartwarming story of how one citizen has embraced the need for change.

(JOHN APPLETON) F PN APPLETON ASSOCIATES, T: 09 489 9362, appletonassoc@xtra.co.nz, www.johnappleton.co.nz

HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS WHAT YOUR STARS HOLD FOR SEPTEMBER

♍ Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September

You’re always ready to try something new and you get so engrossed in what you’re doing that you forget what’s going on around you. Forget about the trivia and concentrate on the truth.

♓ Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March

When the time comes for you look after someone else, you first need to make sure you are looking after yourself. Take the first step on your journey to being a better person.

If you’re in front it means you’re more aware than you thought.

♎ Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October

♈ Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April

♏

♉ Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May

Have you ever felt like you’re pushing against the crowd or swimming against the tide?

You are able to avoid any obstacles that are in your way with ease. Think about the choices you’re making now. They’ll stay with you.

Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November If you happen to fall back into doing what you do best then so be it. Say what needs to be said now and you will get the freedom to be completely open and honest about your feelings in the future.

♐ Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December

I don’t think it will matter much if you’re wrong as long as you don’t keep insisting that you’re right all the time. You end up wasting valuable time and that is something you don’t have much of.

♑ Capricorn (the Goat): 23 December - 20 January

You are able to settle any disputes this month as you have the ability to reason even in the most trying of circumstances. You should feel at peace if you can take time just to get away from any drama that is surrounding you.

♒ Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February

You must accept that you do have rules to follow, whatever they are. You have a strong character that will serve you well. Don’t just dream about doing something when you have the capabilities to actually do it.

64 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

Don’t do anything rash if you’re feeling under pressure. Take a look at what you are doing and what needs to be done and prioritise. Don’t snap, just push yourself in a different way.

Something from your past seems to be haunting you and even making you feel guilty. And something from your present seems to be making you feel lonely even when you have people around you. It’s not always about quantity but about quality.

♊

Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June If you can let your emotions out it might be the only way that you can ease the tension that’s around you. Thinking about the past is a reminder of where you are today.

Embrace the feelings and let it go.

♋

Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July You have a great ability to help people, whether it’s emotionally or spiritually and occasionally you can feel drained and slightly used. Don’t run the risk of having your vulnerabilities on display as these can be used against you.

♌

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August Compromise is something that you need to start mastering the art of if you want things to run smoothly. Accept who you are and what your capable of and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. Focus on your own strengths.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HEALTH + BEAUTY

BARREFIGURE Barrefigure is a chic boutique fitness studio in Ponsonby offering targeted body-sculpting classes that fuse principles of ballet barre, Pilates, yoga and strength training.

The 60-minute classes target all muscle groups and effectively tones, strengthens and lengthens them, creating a leaner longer -looking and more graceful physique. Each muscle group is worked to exhaustion then subsequently stretched out for relief.

Founded by Marysa Theiler in 2014, Barrefigure is now a community favourite and attracts a dedicated group of members from all over Auckland. Marysa started her love affair with fitness at the tender age of six in Christchurch as a budding ballerina. She went on to become a member of the Royal New Zealand Ballet and danced professionally for 10 years in New Zealand, Australia and New York City.

Marysa is passionate about helping her clients reach and exceed their goals and with her unique knowledge and experience, Marysa and her team bring something truly exceptional to the Barre format. This really is a workout like no other.

Barrefigure studio offers 36 classes each week with eight different class types to choose from (barrefigureSIGNATURE, barreBEGINNERS, barreADVANCED, barreEXPRESS, barreCARDIO, barreSTRETCH, barreBABY and barreYIN).

Pre-and post-natal fitness is a special focus for the Barrefigure team with Marysa having had both her babies since she set up Barrefigure. The Barrefigure team is passionate about creating a safe and supportive atmosphere for expectant mums to workout safely. F PN

What Barrefigure fans say...

“Thank you again for your help in pushing me to have a body I never dreamed of having. I am stronger, fitter, and leaner than I ever dreamt I could be.” - Millie

BE INTO WIN a x5 class PACK WORTH $130 Come and try a class before the end of September and mention ‘Ponsonby News Prize Draw’ and we’ll put you in the draw to win a x5 class pack worth $130.

“Every muscle in my body was screaming at me, even picking up my toddler was a challenge. What a wake-up call that the other exercise I do clearly doesn’t work my body this much.” - Tania BARREFIGURE, 166 Richmond Road, (by Ripe cafe), Ponsonby, T: 09 361 2083, www.barrefigure.co.nz

©

Barre

+

Pilates

+

Yoga

Find your best self at Barrefigure!

Intro Offers for New Clients!

2-4-1 for $28 + 30 Days Unlimited $150 166 Richmond Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 09 361 2083 • www.barrefigure.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

65

MEET THE TEACHER Michaela is a New Entrant teacher at Bayfield School - Tukitukimuka who has recently been appointed to a K-ahui Ako Within School Teacher position.

Tell us about a day in the life of a New Entrant teacher?

Busy! Before school is spent preparing for the day ahead and as soon as the first child arrives I don’t have a minute to spare until they have left at the end of the day. Each day varies and includes lots of hands-on activities and learning through play. We love to sing and dance! Five-year-olds are hard work but it is worth it. Such huge progress is made in the first six months of school life and helping them transition from Early Childhood to school is hugely rewarding.

What is a Within School Teacher and what do you do in this role?

A WST is a new leadership role that gives the teachers appointed time to connect with - Ako and lead an inquiry within their school to promote best other teachers in the Kahui -teaching practices. Bayfield School’s focus is on promoting student agency in writing in order to raise achievement and success in this learning area.

What else are you balancing with your new role?

I have been reading more literature, working with other teachers and speaking with more students to hear their voice. I am also working towards my Masters in Education Practice, as well as coaching and playing hockey.

Why do you like about the K-ahui Ako (Community of Learning)?

Making connections between local schools, as well as helping the transition from primary to intermediate, to secondary will have huge benefits for students as well as teachers.

I think that the best form of professional development is the discussions and observations between teachers and the COL allows this to happen.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Weekends are often spent going out for breakfast and playing and watching hockey. I am looking forward to summer and spending time at the beach with friends. I love to travel but after spending eight months travelling around the world last year it probably won’t be happening again for a while!

Did you grow up in this area?

No, I grew up on the North Shore and attended all of my local Glenfield schools. I was even Head Girl at Glenfield College. Before I got this job I barely knew my way around this side of the bridge! I am still a Shore girl at heart though I do love this area, particularly the shops and cafes. Maybe one day I could afford a house here? You can’t beat strolling down to Westhaven Marina and walking along the waterfront.

Why do you think being a teacher is such a great career?

I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I was a little girl and was inspired by my own primary teachers. Every day is different in the classroom and there are many moments of joy and happiness. Teaching is such an important job as you are setting children up and preparing them for lifelong learning. Children give you unconditional love (even if you’ve been a bit grumpy!) and can cheer you up no matter what your mood.

Seeing them succeed every day keeps you going. It’s a job that never stops as you are constantly thinking about what you could do better to help them progress and enjoy the love of learning. F PN

ST MARY’S COLLEGE - KBB MUSIC FESTIVAL SUCCESS In the second week of August the St Mary’s College Music Department took part in the KBB Music Festival at Holy Trinity Cathedral.

The festival is always a highlight of Auckland’s musical calendar. The students performed admirably, with a real sense of joy and commitment in their playing.

Of the three groups who performed, the St Mary’s Chamber Orchestra and Senior Orchestra received Gold Awards, and the Concert Band received a Silver Award. The Chamber Orchestra was also one of four groups in their category to be selected to perform at the Gala Concert.

Notably, this was St Mary’s first-ever Gold Award from KBB for the Senior Orchestra, which was a testament to their hard work and dedication. A special congratulations to Jane Wright, Director of Orchestras, for her efforts in preparing the group.

The judges wrote that the Concert Band delivered, “a delightful programme which highlights the marvellous work you have done. Your ensemble is very aligned rhythmically, with acute attention to rhythmic groupings across the sections.”

The Chamber Orchestra had “Great musical playing - open and communicative. Such a beautiful sound and consistent musicianship. Please play a longer programme next time!” The judges gave the ensemble impressive marks of 14/15 for Presentation and 22/25 for Musicianship.

The orchestra performed an “expertly prepared programme which was a real pleasure to listen to. Brass and winds play as one sound - excellent tone and balance. String sections unified in approach.” The orchestra was nominated for “Best Performance of a Romantic Work” for Tchaikovsky’s Waltz of the Flowers, and “Outstanding Soloist” for Year 13 Antonia Grant’s violin solo on Monti’s Czardas.

St Mary’s College wishes to congratulate all students and teachers for their hard work throughout the year preparing for the festival. This was a great representation of the musical efforts and achievements of St Mary’s College students.

Rachel Snelling, HOD Instrumental Music and Ben Zilber, HOD Academic Music. F PN ST MARY’S COLLEGE, 11 New Street, Ponsonby, T: 09 376 6568, www.stmaryak.school.nz

66 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION

A MONTESSORI EDUCATION “One test of the correctness of educational procedure is the happiness of the child.” - Maria Montessori The Montessori curriculum includes practical life, sensorial activities, language, mathematics, culture, science, art and music. These are all part of the curriculum at Little Engines Montessori Preschool in Grey Lynn.

Little Engines Montessori is a modern, well-resourced and well established Montessori centre, situated next door to Grey Lynn Primary School. Little Engines Montessori offers a vibrant learning community with an all-day indoor/outdoor flow, a spacious outdoor area and a well-prepared, meticulously kept indoor environment.

Centre Manager and Curriculum Leader Mamatha Kumar, has been a part of Little Engine’s journey from its foundation seven years ago, and continues to lead the experienced and passionate teaching team at Little Engines Montessori. ”We believe that each child has the potential to reach amazing heights, given an optimum environment, and it is the goal of Little Engines Montessori to provide this environment, to nurture the love of learning

and cultivate a belief in themselves, an independence, grace and courtesy and an understanding of the world in which they live.”

The teachers at Little Engines are all trained in the Montessori philosophy, where passion for this way of learning and genuine love for children is fully embraced. The centre’s license of just 50 children provides plenty of opportunity for children to work freely and independently, with gentle and respectful guidance from teachers. The high ratio of Registered Teachers at Little Engines ensures that the excellent quality of Education and learning is maintained at the centre.

Little Engines has strong links within the Grey Lynn Community, and as part of this, serves the community by providing an enriched programme in partnership with their families, collaborative relationships with parents, whanau and teachers to ensure the best possible outcomes for the children.

We welcome you to visit for a guided tour. Excellent education and care for children aged 2.5 - 6 years of age. Open 8.45am - 3.30pm.

LITTLE ENGINES MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL, 56 Surrey Crescent, (next-door to Grey Lynn Primary School), T: 09 378 9502, E: manager@little-engines.co.nz, www.little-engines.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

67

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

ADRIAN’S SCARY START TO LIFE Thousands of animals find themselves in harm’s way each year and need someone to intervene on their behalf to rescue and care for them. This is Adrian’s story.

Adrian was stuck in a river on a cold winter's night, desperately gasping for air and struggling in freezing water. Adrian was weak and in shock, he had a painful injury on the side of his face and was hypothermic. He was so starving his tiny little ribs were protruding out of his fur.

Adrian had to be pulled out of the river and was taken to SPCA. He was then transferred to the intensive care unit at SPCA, so he could receive round-the-clock care from staff.

Adrian was shivering terribly from spending so long in the ice cold and rapid water, he was warmed up with a hairdryer, towels and hotties. He then received his first gentle and warm bath; for the first time ever - he was no longer in pain and had a full belly.

Adrian then had to have X-rays to check he had not sustained any serious injuries from his ordeal, such as water on his lungs. Luckily, they came back all clear and so he began on his long road to recovery, under close monitoring from the SPCA team. Because he was so tiny and vulnerable, Adrian was put on an IV drip shortly after being rescued to keep hydrated and bring down his temperature. The medicine he was put on began to work and day by day he grew stronger.

As we go to print, Adrian is enjoying some yummy food, and lapping up cuddles from staff. His personality is beginning to shine through. He loves being around humans and constantly purrs.

Adrian adores under the chin and belly rubs and is just the sweetest kitten. He is a little fighter, and everyone is determined to give this little man the happy life he deserves. F PN If you would like to donate to Adrian’s care and other animals just like him, please visit: www.spca.nz/protectanimals

68 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

@ SPCA – PLEASE CAN I COME HOME WITH YOU? Many beautiful animals are looking for a loving and forever home.

Adopt an SPCA animal and in return you will be rewarded with a lifetime of unconditional love. www.spcaauckland.org.nz/adopt

CALENDAR COMPETITION Is your pet picture perfect? Help put their best paw forward by entering the 2019 SPCA Calendar Competition!

Everyone thinks their pet is the cutest and here is your chance to prove it! Snap your best shot of your pet and enter them on our website.

Every pet entered is guaranteed a spot in the calendar with 12 chosen as 'pets of the month' and a lucky cat, dog, and small or farm animal as the cover stars.

The entry fee is just $25 per photo and every entry gets a free calendar. All proceeds go toward helping the injured, abused, and abandoned animals of New Zealand. Plus, thanks to our friends at PURINA, we have some great prizes to give away!

Carl Barker

If your dog is chosen as the cover star, you will win a year's supply of PURINA ONE Cat or Dog food. If your cat is chosen as a monthly winner, you will receive a bag of PURINA ONE cat or dog food.

Pancake and Waffle

Don't have a cat or a dog? If your rabbit, guinea pig, goat, or another animal companion of yours is chosen as the cover star, you will win a NÉSTLE hamper to the value of $300.

And if they are chosen as a monthly winner, you will win a Prezzy card voucher.

You can enter as many times as you like. So, get snapping, enter your best photo by Sunday September 23, and help animals in need! F PN Enter now by visiting here: www.spca.nz/calendarcomp

Is your pet picture perfect?

Rubin

Upload your photo to the SPCA Calendar Competition!

Enter at www.spca.nz

Minnie The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

69

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

report card 2 0 1 7

report card 2 0 1 7

name: A r c h i e W a t s o n

name: P o r t i a o f V e n i c e W i l l i a m s

breed: S c h n o o d l e

breed: S h i h T z u

age:

11 years

age:

class: l Woodbury Park

10 years

class: l Colehill Cottage

Overall Behaviour

Overall Behaviour

best achievement

Leading by example in the manners department.

best achievement

Leading by example in the manners department.

needs some work

Developing confidence around the more boisterous students.

needs some work

Following instructions from their teacher when asked to head outside with the group.

core subjects

physical education

social studies

core subjects

physical education

social studies

manners

A+

ball & tug

A-

gregarious / outgoing

A

manners

A

ball & tug

C

gregarious / outgoing

B-

attentiveness

A+

chase & wrestle

A+

amiable / charming

A+

attentiveness

B

chase & wrestle

B+

amiable / charming

B-

attitude

A+

interactive games

A

reliable / thoughtful

A+

attitude

A

interactive games

B

reliable / thoughtful

A-

best friends

best known f for or

best friends

best known f for or

Barra Cadario,Harry Amor,Oz

Showing the younger ones

Archie Hall,George McNamara,Poppie

Always being the best dressed

Thompson,Cloudy Brown,Bailey

how it’s done in the manners

Wilson,Charlie Bourke,Marley

department.

Tanner

Steele,Kookie Boomert,Pipi Broom,Pixie Morris,Bella Macartney,Tofu

in tots.

Marangoni,Kimi Marangoni

overall comments

overall comments

Archie is top of the class in the manners department and makes

Portia is top of the class in the manners department and makes

the pawfect teacher’s pet by helping show the younger ones how

the pawfect teacher’s pet by helping show the younger ones how

it’s done. With the best manners and the most lovable loyalty,

it’s done. She loves snoozing in her favourite spot but is often

Archie is the pawfect student.

reluctant to head outside with the rest of the class when asked.

With the best manners and the most lovable loyalty, her is the pawfect student.

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

70 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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

report card 2 0 1 7

report card 2 0 1 7

name: S p r o c k e t G r e e n

name: L e x i B a k k e r

breed: C a i r n T e r r i e r x P o o d l e

breed: M i x e d B r e e d

age:

4 years

age:

SOCI A L

3 years

PL AY F U L

class: l Budleigh Gardens

class: l Colehill Cottage

Overall Behaviour

C A R EFR EE

Overall Behaviour

best achievement

Being top of the class when it comes to cuddles.

best achievement

needs some work

Developing confidence around the more boisterous students.

needs some work

Understanding that they don’t need to jump all over their teacher to say hello.

Recognising the importance of not shouting at their classmates and teachers.

core subjects

physical education

social studies

core subjects

physical education

social studies

manners

A-

ball & tug

C+

gregarious / outgoing

B

manners

B

ball & tug

A+

gregarious / outgoing

A+

attentiveness

B

chase & wrestle

C+

amiable / charming

A+

attentiveness

A-

chase & wrestle

A+

amiable / charming

A+

attitude

A-

interactive games

C+

reliable / thoughtful

A+

attitude

A+

interactive games

A

reliable / thoughtful

A-

best friends

best known f for or

best friends

best known f for or

Jessie Gillam,Minnie Fox,Poppie Steele,Benji

Their superstar manners and

Arthur Jimenez,Becca Boulton,Cooper McNearney,Falcon

Always having plenty to say!

adorable face.

Groves,Ricky Kauffmann,Bunty Sneddon,Ernie Maisey,Ruby

Meyer,Coco Kenny,Buster Bell,Bella Powell,Oscar Thompson,Pipi Broom,Doug Slater,Bella Lord,Norman Borland,Coco-Bella Beca,Rosie Wagstuff,Pontus Staples,Chilli McDougall,Poppy Wilson

Bakker,Rocky Morton,Sarge Hedley,Henry Padgett,Rumble Seewald,Charlie Agnew,Grace Barnard,Cooper Stokes ,Bear Chakravarthy,Max Murphy,Odin Jenkins,Poppy Wyatt,Buttercup Daly,Meg Begg,Jack Duff Dobson,Pluto Waller,Freja Gurney,Leonard Walsh

overall comments

overall comments

Gorgeous Sprocket has had another great year, a real teacher’s

Wow Lexi look at you go! Full of energy and enthusiasm, there’s

pet who just loves her snuggles and is always first in line for a

never a dull moment when Lexi is at school. While she could

treat. While she loves a cuddle or silly game with the teachers,

work on curbing her love of barking at any kids playing ball, we

she is encouraged to build confidence even further by joining in

love Lexi and are glad she’s had an awesome year.

on group games and activities. With the best manners and the most lovable loyalty, she is the pawfect student.

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

BARKLE Y MANOR 2 0 1 7 - 1 0 T H Y E A R A N N I V E RS A RY

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

71

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: METROLAW Got a legal question? Ask michael@metrolaw.co.nz

Q:

A new apartment development is being built in an area I’ve always wanted to buy into. I looked over the specifications and I really like the modern look of them. I want to put a deposit down because I think that they are selling out quickly. I’m a little nervous that I haven’t seen the finished product before committing to a deposit, what do you think?

A:

I am coming across this more and more as developers scramble to keep up with Auckland’s housing demands.

When you buy an apartment off the plans even if you are using the REINZ/ADLS standard form there will usually be amendments to the form and extensive further terms. Yes, this means that you need to get legal advice and yes this means that the advice is likely to be more expensive than if you were buying an existing house on the standard form. It would be useful if there was a standard form given the amount of new builds and new apartment buildings that are coming onto the market but currently there isn’t one. If you are buying a car you get an AA check so why, when you are spending the better part of a million dollars, shouldn't you start trying to find a mate to give it a once over?

While there is no substitute for going and seeing your lawyer I do have some useful tips.

First, it doesn’t really matter what is on the agreement if you have chosen the wrong person to do business with. I recommend looking up the developer and seeing if there is anything in the news about them. Have they done this type of development before? If not, what

developments have they done? Have they ever been adjudicated bankrupt, is there any adverse publicity on them? If they have done similar developments in the past, go and look at them see how they turned out. There is a wealth of information on the internet and in New Zealand we have a great resource of free available information from the Companies Office www.companies.govt.nz and the Insolvency and Trustee Service www.insolvency.govt.nz You should always check what happens with the deposit. Ideally it will be held until settlement by the developer’s solicitor in their trust account. Settlement should only occur after a code compliance certificate and a new title has issued for the apartment. You want to be clear that the deposit does not get released until you know that settlement will go ahead.

Check the sunset date and how it works. If the development is not completed by this date then you have the right to cancel the agreement and get back your deposit with any interest earned. Note that the developer can also cancel the agreement at this time. If the development is cancelled on this basis then you are likely to feel aggrieved as your deposit will have been tied up for a long time and you may have missed out on other opportunities. Ask the developer or the agent about their progress with resource consent, whether they have a fixed price building contract in place and who is the builder. (MICHAEL HEMPHILL) F PN Disclaimer - This article is for general information purposes only. If you have a legal problem you should seek advice from a lawyer. Metro Law does not accept any liability other than to its clients and then only when advice is sought on specific matters.

METRO LAW, Level 1, 169A Ponsonby Road, T: 09 929 0800, www.metrolaw.co.nz

BECOME A FRIEND OF K ELMARNA GARDENS KELMARNA G A R D E NS FOR AS FOR AS LITTLE LITTLE AS AS $$55 A M MONTH ONT H Your regular donation will help connect more school children with nature, empower people all over Auckland with sustainable living choices and develop and maintain a therapeutic garden. Join now at: www.kelmarnagardens.nz/donate

72 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PONSONBYPROFESSIONALS: PROFESSIONALS: LOGAN LOGANGRANGER GRANGER

Changes to PAYE Filing The IRD has introduced a new way of filing PAYE which will become mandatory from 1 April 2019. Key changes are outlined that will make it simpler and faster for you to meet your business tax obligations.

Improving the administration of PAYE to benefit businesses and employees Currently, your employees' income information is reported to the IRD on a monthly basis. This means the information used to calculate customers' tax obligations and entitlements they receive from the Government is often out-of-date and doesn't accurately reflect their current financial situation.

In 2018, the Government passed legislation that will save businesses time and make sure the IRD receive more timely and accurate information for calculating customers' tax and entitlements. This aims to give New Zealand families more certainty about what support they're entitled to and what their payment obligations are.

Employers and payroll intermediaries will be required to submit employment information every payday instead of monthly. This replaces your: • Employer monthly schedule (IR348) if you use ir-File, or • Employer schedule (IR348) if you're a paper filer.

Payday filing - key points • Payday filing is voluntary from 1 April 2018 and mandatory from 1 April 2019. It's a good idea to start thinking about how you'll make payday filing part of your payroll processes before this becomes a requirement.

• You'll also be required to provide address details for new employees, and their date of birth if that information has been supplied by the employee.

• If your PAYE/ESCT (employer superannuation contribution tax) is $50,000 or more a year, you'll have to file electronically through software or myIR from 1 April 2019. If it's less than $50,000 a year, you can payday file on paper if you choose, but only from 1 April 2019.

Contact the IRD on 0800 377 772 to start using the following two options: 2. Upload to myIR in the Payroll returns account (if supported by software provider).

3. Onscreen in myIR in the Payroll returns account.

• PAYE payment dates and methods of payment remain the same - all that is changing is how often you provide your employment information.

If you are filing electronically (either through software or myIR), you have to submit employment information within two working days of paying your staff, or within ten working days from 1 April 2019 if you're a paper filer. There is a twice-monthly filing option for those who submit their employment information on paper.

• When you begin payday filing, you will no longer file an IR348. You'll begin payday filing from the beginning of the month, because your final IR348 must cover a full month. Until you begin payday filing, continue to file your IR348 as usual.

• For the time being you'll need to continue filing an Employer deduction form (IR345). The due dates for the IR345 and payment haven't changed.

Filing options Increasingly employers are using software to manage their tax filing. Research shows that using technology such as software in business is reducing compliance costs. There are three different options for electronic payday filing - here's how to get started: 1. Direct from software (if supported by your software provider). This service lets businesses file their payroll information without having to upload the file in myIR. You don't need to do anything to elect to use payday filing.

What to do next • Start thinking about how you'll make payday filing part of your payroll processes before it becomes compulsory in April 2019.

• Talk to your payroll software provider about when they will offer the software you need. The IRD is working with the software industry so that more providers will offer payday filing by the time it becomes compulsory.

• If you use an in-house payroll system, make sure your IT team is aware of what's changing in April 2019.

(LOGAN GRANGER) F PN Disclaimer - While all care has been take, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the content of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, 202 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 6701, www.jacal.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

73

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU Facebook can be a great way to keep up with what your friends and acquaintances have been getting up to.

While you’re there, you could get some shopping done too.

“If you buy goods or services from someone via Facebook, then what your consumer rights are pretty much boils down to whether the seller is considered a professional trader or not,” says Margaret Antunovich of Citizens Advice Bureau Auckland City, Grey Lynn/Ponsonby Branch.

A trader is bound by the Consumer Guarantees Act and the Fair Trading Act for goods or services sold by a trader, even if you bid for it in an auction. If the seller is not a trader, then it’s classed as a private sale, which means you don’t have much protection.

In general, if someone is selling a lot of items online, then they are a trader. If you’re not sure about a particular Facebook seller, check out their Facebook page. If they seem to sell a lot of similar kinds of items, and have sold a lot of items in the past, then they are probably a trader rather than an individual just having a household clear out.

Margaret Antunovich says there are things you can do to minimise your risk when considering buying from a private seller, for example if at all possible try to inspect the item before you hand over your money; ask the seller a lot of questions about the item so you know what to expect; look for feedback from past customers; for the expensive items (like a car) it would pay to check the Personal Property Securities Register in case it has been used as security for someone’s debt. Also, pay by credit card or, if it’s going to a New Zealand account, by Internet banking rather than by cash or

Your FIRST

telegraphic transfer so your payment can be tracked. Lastly, it makes good sense to get the full name and address of the seller in case the trade goes pear-shaped and you need to track them down.

“If you have a problem with something you’ve bought, it’s always best to talk to the seller first. But if you haven’t been able to sort it out by talking to them, come and see us at 510 Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn. We’re open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm and Saturdays 10.30am-12.30pm. You could also phone us on 09 376 0392 or toll free on 0800 367 222, or send us an email ponsonby@cab.org. nz. We also have information about consumer rights on our website www.cab.org.nz.”

Citizens Advice Bureau is an independent community organisation offering a free, confidential and independent service of information, assistance and referral from 90 locations stretching from Northland to Invercargill. Last year volunteers received over 500,000 enquiries on issues ranging from electricity, immigration, housing and employment to consumer rights, health and family.

For more information, please contact Margaret Antunovich, manager Grey Lynn/Ponsonby branch Citizens Advice Bureau, 021 369 404 or 09 376 0392. F PN www.cab.org.nz

CALL for a wide range of free,

up to date and confidential information about: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Consumer rights Budgeting Legal clinics Employment rights Justice of the Peace Health & welfare issues House & tenancy issues Unemployment problems Education & training Personal & family issues Immigration needs Local & general information Photocopying & faxing

Citizens Advice Bureau

0800 FOR CAB or 09 376 0392 510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn www.cab.org.nz

74 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME RENOVATION

SOWING THE SEEDS FOR BIODIVERSITY IN NEW ZEALAND Koanga Institute urgently needs your help.

• Fundraising $26k for a seed tunnel • Needed by September to ensure a fruitful seed collection • Donate via Givealittle The Ponsonby Red tomato, Ruapehu cauliflower, Hawke’s Bay Yellow tomato, and many more are under threat of extinction as the team at Koanga Institute urgently seek funding for a new tunnel house to produce heritage seed crops this spring.

Koanga Institute founder, Kay Baxter, explains the concern isn’t that we’re short on seeds, it’s the unpredictable weather patterns around the time of harvest which has the potential to cause devastation to these heritage seed varieties.

“Unpredictable weather conditions are particularly problematic for seed collection.

Periods of very wet weather can seriously impact production, sometimes resulting in complete loss of seed if the wet weather occurs around seed harvest time.

“As climate change continues to disrupt our weather patterns, it is of extreme importance that we not only continue to preserve seed biodiversity, but that we also increase the amount of seeds produced to ensure nationwide accessibility. For the Koanga Institute, a tunnel house will ensure produce is well-protected from the elements, ensuring our heritage seed biodiversity is protected for generations to come.

“Until recent-times, saving seeds was an integral part of the gardening year for green thumbs from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Over generations, their dedication helped to create a rich diversity of plant varieties, adapted to suit the local soil and climate, many of which have been donated to Koanga over the years. Today, knowledge of how to save seeds has largely been lost by amateur gardeners, with many of Kiwis opting buy seed packets from large multinational seed companies instead."

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Kay continues, “The diversity in our seed stock is as endangered as a panda or cheetah.

The packet seeds we buy in the supermarket and garden centres are mostly F1 hybrids and CMS seeds, bred for high yields and commercial advantages such as attractive appearance, transportability and long shelf life. Most of these seeds will produce one nice-looking crop with a reasonable yield in the first year, but results with the secondgeneration plants are wildly unpredictable.

“As a result, each year the gardener has to go back to the seed company to buy a new packet of seed. That means the future of most of the food we grow ourselves now lies in the hands of multinational companies.”

For over 30 years, the team at Koanga Institute has been developing and nurturing a precious collection of over 800 types of New Zealand heritage seeds, which have been selected and saved over the centuries to nourish people, and to be part of an evolving regenerative ecological system. Koanga Institute is one of the only organisations in New Zealand who grows seeds locally, mostly in the Hawke’s Bay, offering varieties adapted to local soils and climates.

Unlike commercial seeds, Koanga seeds are selected for qualities gardeners are looking for, such as long cropping season, great taste, nutrient density, disease resistance and suitability for organic biological growing systems.

The tunnel house will be used to grow New Zealand Heritage lettuces, including: Odell's, Lightheart, Half Century and Mignonette tomatoes including Kings Gold, Hawke's Bay Yellow, Ponsonby Red, Dalmatian Oxheart and more.

To donate to the purchase of the seed tunnel, please donate through: givealittle.co.nz/cause/koanga-institute-tunnel-house-fundraiser

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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FACES AT THE MARKET - WHITNEY AND WHITNEY

Tucked away in the corner of the Grey Lynn Farmers Market you will find Whitney Wainui and Whitney Nicholls-Potts selling their specialty brews and offering tastes in small pottery cups.

9,6,7 285 :(%6,7( )25 /DWHVW QHZV UHFHQW LVVXHV DGYHUWLVLQJ 3RQVRQE\ /LWWOH %ODFN %RRN 3RQVRQE\ 1HZV 5HDGHUV DUH HYHU\ZKHUH DQG PXFK PRUH

www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

HOME RENOVATION

INTRODUCING EUROPEAN-INSPIRED DÉCOR TO LIVING SPACES All too often designers and home renovators limit their use of tiles to kitchens, bathrooms and swimming pools.

Whilst these are the most obvious spaces to use ceramic products, trends in New Zealand are starting to move towards the Spanish and Italian way of decorating.

Using tiles in living and dining spaces creates a cleaner, healthier environment, especially in homes with pets and young children. Artisan has noticed a shift in where its clients are using tiles and has brought in some new ranges from Europe, selected to look stunning in any room.

The ‘Carpet’ range, for example, is patterned to look like a distressed rug, and these tiles would create a very cool and contemporary lounge space, teamed with a real distressed rug to add warmth and softness.

Mosaic tiles don’t have to be limited to swimming pools or bathrooms. Artisan has a beautiful range of Onix Mosaic tiles that would look stunning in lounges, dining areas, sun rooms and kitchens.

With so many more stylish and unique tiles now available, call in to the Artisan showroom in Mount Eden to discuss tiles for your renovation. You’ll find some beautiful distressed rugs there too. F PN ARTISAN COLLECTIVE, 31a Normanby Road, Mount Eden, T: 09 302 2499, www.artisanflooring.co.nz

A stunning new tile collection from Europe, now available at Artisan.

31a Normanby Road, Mt Eden artisancollective.co.nz

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HOME RENOVATION

@ CITTA 1. Plaited Rug from $790 This beautifully natural, undyed rug creates a relaxed vibe at home and is ideal for visually breaking up your floor space.

2. Hand Woven Grid Linen Grid Cushion Cover - $79.90 This cushion cover features a classic geometric pattern, softened through the gentle process of hand-weaving.

3. Oval Full Length Mirror - $429 A strategically placed full-length mirror will help small spaces feel larger, lighter and more open.

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4. Limited Edition Cinderblock Print - $189 This bold, geometric print was designed and screen-printed right here in New Zealand to liven up your wall space.

5. Knitted Storage Baskets - $119.70 This set of storage baskets is perfect for storing away household necessities and displaying pot plants.

6. Anglepoise Original 1227 Mini Desk Lamp - $520 This iconic Anglepoise Lamp's perfectly balanced modernist form is a timeless addition to any home or office setting.

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www.cittadesign.com

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It’s not often we receive such nice praise from a client before a campaign has finished…

“Hi Anah, I am more than happy with what you’ve done so far to market the property.

You continue to be optimistic and professional throughout.

Wow - whatever the outcome. Thank you so much.” Glennie

ANAH JORDAN Everything I touch turns to SOLD M 022 127 9080 | E a.jordan@barfoot.co.nz B 09 376 3039 | barfoot.co.nz/a.jordan

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

our spring 2018 collection in stores & online now

BOTANY • GREY LYNN • MT EDEN • NORTHWEST NEWMARKET • TAKAPUNA CITTADESIGN.COM

HOME RENOVATION

KITCHENS BY DESIGN - MICHELLE GILLBANKS Family-oriented, carefully considered.

Following closely in the footsteps of her mother - the multi-award-winning designer Sue Gillbanks - Michelle Gillbanks is quickly making a name for herself designing beautiful kitchens at Kitchens By Design.

A great example of the designs Michelle has worked on lately is this large, contemporary kitchen she completed for a busy family as part of a major renovation of their large classic-style home. She says that one of her client’s primary requirements was for a multi-zoned space where individual members of the family could work independently or come together as a group for entertaining or events.

“As well as the normal kitchen functions, a breakfast/snack station for the teenagers, a coffee-prep area for the husband, an integrated laundry/wet area, and an entertainment area for the grown-ups were all asked for,” she says. “And it all had to have excellent flow from the internal access garaging through to the open-plan living area.”

Accommodating all these needs required some intricate space planning and lateral thinking - not least was the design of the large kitchen island that cleverly steps down into the lounge, extending the bench space, creating a ‘leaner’ area which contains a drinks fridge and storage for glasses.

Adjacent to the other end of the island is the teenagers’ snack area, concealed behind full-height bi-fold cabinetry. And around the corner is the walk-in scullery that contains the coffee-making centre, laundry and access to the garage.

“Budget was also important to my clients,” says Michelle. “Keeping to it, with such a large space, required careful and selective material choice. As such, only areas directly on show were given the more expensive finishes - the splashback and island front in a marbled porcelain, the overhead cabinetry in stained oak veneer, and island benchtop in Corian.”

This is just one of the many styles of kitchen Michelle has designed for her clients; each tailored to their specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a new kitchen, why not pop into talk to Michelle or one of the other five designers who work out of Kitchens By Design’s two Auckland showrooms.

KITCHEN BY DESIGN’S showrooms can be found at 7 Melrose Street, Newmarket, T: 09 379 3084, and 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna, T: 09 488 7201.

The showrooms are open Monday-Friday 10am-4.30pm, Saturday 10am-2.30pm, or by appointment. www.kitchenbydesign.co.nz

80 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

GREAT KITCHENS DON’T JUST HAPPEN...

THEY HAPPEN

BY DESIGN.

VISIT OUR AUCKLAND SHOWROOMS NEWMARKET SHOWROOM: 7 Melrose Street, Newmarket | 09 379 3084 TAKAPUNA SHOWROOM: 3 Byron Avenue, Takapuna | 09 488 7201 kitchensbydesign.co.nz

HOME RENOVATION

CREATE YOUR PERFECT HOME WITH MELUKA Meluka's new COSYbunks are more than just cosy - they're fun and practical too.

Perfect for young kids and even better for parents who make up the top bunk! They're lower to the ground, making them safer and more user-friendly, ideal for small rooms and are easy to clean and maintain.

performance and arrives fully assembled. All furniture is assembled to order using state-of-the-art computerised manufacturing systems, ensuring the highest levels of quality.

Meluka furniture is simple, timeless and manufactured in New Zealand

by Danske Mobler. Meluka furniture is built tough, designed for lasting

Shop online at www.meluka.co.nz to find out more or visit your nearest DANSKE MOBLER store.

Here’s the LOWdown!

TVboy 3 Bay 2 High $1832

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Limited time - see website for details

meluka.co.nz Furniture. Simply.

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D E SI G N E D A N D MA D E I N N Z

T H RE E KIN G S 98 3 M T ED EN R D N O RT H S H O RE 13A LI N K D R ALB AN Y 2 60 OTEH A VA LLEY R D B OTAN Y D O W N S 501 TI R A K AU D R TAU RAN G A 4/68 3 C A M ER ON R D

H AMILTO N 15 MAUI ST TAU PO 2 9 TOTA R A ST H AS T IN G S 810 HERETAUNGA ST PALME RS TO N N O RT H 699 M A I N ST LO W E R H U T T 2 8 R U TH ER FOR D ST

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME RENOVATION

FOR THE LOVE OF BEAUTIFUL HOME LIVING Home Renovations – Gardens and Outdoor Living

LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICE Contact joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz www.ponsonbynews.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME RENOVATION

@ DAWSON & CO 1. Loafer lounge chair by &tradition - $4359 The SAS Royal Hotel turned to Space Copenhagen founders Signe Bindslev Henriksen and Peter Bundgaard Rützou, who designed a chair that would look lovely in the hotel - and actually anywhere.

2. Palette Console JH9 by &tradition - $5459 “In a world where everyone is rushing around mega multitasking, to sit at an ordinary desk feels so static,” says Spanish artist/designer Jaime Hayon. “I felt compelled to design a desk with a feeling of motion, inspired by the kinetic sculptures of Alexander Calder. Balancing various shapes and materials at various heights supported by a metal frame. In theory it’s like a mobile but in reality it’s a desk.”

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3. Lato side table by &tradition - $1279 At first glance, Lato resembles a sculpture, with its slim, oval or round table top balanced by an oval-shaped base.

Striking, graphic and poetic, its purity of form is proof that simple is sophisticated. The initial inspiration for Lato started with the idea of a lollipop turned upside down.

4. Pavilion chair by &tradition - $999 Located on the castle grounds of Copenhagen’s Kastellet overlooking the waterfront promenade that is home to the Little Mermaid, The Langelinie Pavilion stands with a resilient spirit. The first Pavilion was built in 1885. The second was built in 1902 for the Royal Danish Yacht Club but was sadly destroyed during World War II. The current Pavilion was built 1958 by architect couple Eva and Niels Koppel in homage to modernism. Echoing its namesake's ability to endure is the Pavilion chair by Andersen & Voll.

DAWSON & CO, 115 The Strand, Parnell and 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, T: 09 476 1121, www.dawsonandco.nz

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HOMESICK FOR PONSONBY? If you, your friends or family are missing Ponsonby, why not subscribe to New Zealand’s best read community magazine?

An annual subscription is only $49 and can be posted anywhere in New Zealand. +

Visit ponsonbynews.co.nz or email jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz for more information.

Photography: Everall Deans, Ponsonby Business Association

84 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

NEWS + LOCAL POLITICS + FASHION + STYLE + CELEBRITY + EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY + TRAVEL + LIVING, THINKING + BEING + PETS + FUTURE GENERATION + SPORTS + HOME + REAL ESTATE + ARTS + CULTURE

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

DAW S O N & C O .

HOME RENOVATION

@ DESIGN WAREHOUSE 1. Concrete Dining Set Create a modern and sophisticated dining set with the Design Warehouse line of raw concrete tables. These pair brilliantly with our Batyline® Mesh and #316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel Chairs. Design Warehouse has over 150 styles styles of dining chairs and 50 styles of dining tables to choose from, create the set that will fit your space and style.

2. Metell Side Table The Metell Accent Table is elegant, chic and has a little mid-century vibe. It features with a gold aluminum top and striking black base. We love pairing it with simple black accessories as shown. It will add style to your indoor or outdoor space.

3. Lincoln Club Chair This chair will define the style of your living space, it is chic and graceful, yet strong and sturdy. It has that mix of style and structure that is appealing to many different tastes. And not only is it stunning, it is extremely comfortable and comes with the free Sunbrella® cushions as shown.

4. Oasis Sofa Create a relaxing outdoor living space that is inviting and interesting. The Oasis Sofa combines rope, teak, powder coated aluminum and Sunbrella® cushions. It has an easy style that allows you to rest and enjoy the view.

DESIGN WAREHOUSE, 137/147 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 377 7710, www.designwarehouse.co.nz

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Because we all deserve freedom SAFE helping animals out Help us fight cages

86 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

safe.org.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME RENOVATION

@ ROSE & HEATHER

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1. Newport nine-drawer in clear oak (also available in kauri and various finishes) - $6690 2. Large Tumblehome coffee table - $5980 3. A range of Newport and Tumblehome coffee tables is available. Built for your special requirements from $3220 4. Tumblehome nine-drawer chest - $4690 ROSE & HEATHER, 406 Great North Road, T: 09 376 2895, www.roseandheather.com

BIG, small

or

Ta l l

take your pick..

www.roseandheather.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

406 Great North Rd | Grey Lynn DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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HOME RENOVATION

SPRING IS IN THE AIR September hails the start of beautiful new fabrics arriving at COAST. We are excited to be stocking Sunbrella's every-increasing range of fabrics, which are perfect for interior and exterior purposes. The wide selection of colours and textures lends itself to upholstery, cushions, curtains and, of course, our range of COAST beanbags which we can make to order in a huge range of Sunbrella colours. After 15 years of working with Sunbrella, we know just how well it lasts in New Zealand’s challenging climate. Sunbrella fabric is also available cut by the mitre. F PN Open daily. Customer parking on Colin Shaw Lane.

COAST, 77 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 3544552, www.coastnewzealand.com

88 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME RENOVATION

@ MAL CORBOY DESIGN

25 YEARS OF AWARD WINNING DESIGN Mal Corboy Design Kitchens, Bathrooms & Interior Design 021 322 599 60 College Hill Freemans Bay www.malcorboy.com

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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IN VERY GOOD HANDS If the name Wishbone Construction has a familiar ring to it, it’s probably because you’ve seen its signage outside many homes undergoing significant renovations in and around the streets of Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, Westmere, Grey Lynn and Ponsonby.

Wishbone Construction is run by two Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) Wayne Fletcher and Graeme Hannah, who between them have over 40 years construction experience in delivering the kind of precise detailed work that villas and bungalows require.

As technical specialists, Wayne and Graeme work closely with their clients to simplify the daunting process of renovating, and have built a reputation for eliminating the typical pain points and problems most others encounter.

With an enviable mix of creative design expertise coupled with solid building experience, clients’ ideas can be delivered as effectively and economically as possible, helping save a lot of time and money.

In practice, this means Wayne and Graeme manage everything from start to finish. Typically this process starts with helping clients translate their ideas into creative yet practical designs, doing all the heavy lifting and liaison to meet council and engineering requirements.

Managing director, Wayne Fletcher, says, “A common early stage problem facing our clients is the costly conflicts arising from the gap between what they want and design or site complexities, or building code compliance and local bylaw stipulations.

“By helping to mould plans at the start through insightful and innovative practical construction techniques, we simplify the planning and engineering requirements, which means a reduction in overall project costs, as well as shortening delivery timeframes.”

Once plans are signed off, Wayne and Graeme then project-manage all facets of the build process, including the managing of all sub contractors. This effectively makes them a single point of contact for clients from start to finish, which means they can quickly and simply solve all the complexities that arise at different stages in the project process with no delays.

tilt-slab and timber construction and can build everything from simple retaining walls to pools, large scale historic renovations and entire new builds. As Wayne says, “No job is too simple or too complex. If you’re unsure, just give us a call and we’d be happy to chat more.”

They offer fixed price quotes and are committed to meeting timings and price.

What their clients have to say: “Wayne is an excellent problem-solver who ensured the project ran smoothly from start to finish. He also added extra value to the project with his creative solutions. His skilled and trustworthy Wishbone team are great to work with. We are happy to recommend Wishbone to anyone considering a house renovation or build.”

Pippa Coom - Grey Lynn On-time and on-budget! We were most impressed with Wishbone's professionalism, high level of communication and incredible workmanship throughout the entirety of the project - from an excellent structural understanding to a minute attention to detail and finish.

They have exceptional skills in project management, additionally we found Wayne and Graham very able to suggest innovative and costeffective solutions when asked. We have full trust in their workmanship and integrity and would recommend them without hesitation.

Matt & Kimberly Sumner - Herne Bay You’ll be in very good hands with Wishbone Construction.

Wayne says, “It’s important to us that we leave no stone unturned.

This method of working ensures our clients are 100% happy with the results. We project-manage a job from start to finish - any delays with sub-contractors do not stop us meeting the agreed completion date, or the agreed fixed-price budget. Delivering a project on-time and to budget is what we do. It might seem old school, but we pride ourselves in the way we work and in delivering on what we promise.”

Given the nature of its clients’ requirements, Wishbone Construction is adept in carrying out earthworks, footings, steelwork, concrete,

WISHBONE CONTRUCTION, Contact, Wayne Fletcher on M: 021 239 9093, www.wishboneltd.co.nz

90 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME RENOVATION

@ STEPHEN CASHMORE DESIGN STUDIO

Furniture ૛ Interiors ૛ Objects ૛ Art ૛ Consultancy 30 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay, Auckland ૛ 021 265 8113 Mon-Fri 10-6 ૛ Sat 10-4 stephencashmoredesignstudio.nz

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1. Lewis & Art flip wallet, made in New Zealand; 2. Lewis & Art leather glasses case and cleaner, made in New Zealand; 3. Maori maidens 1910, Whakarewarewa; 4. Cast plaster figure; 5. Architectural plaster STEPHEN CASHMORE DESIGN STUDIO, 30 Jervois Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 524 8553, www.stephencashmore.co.nz, www.stephencashmoredesignstudio.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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HOME RENOVATION

Reinstated Epsom home veranda by Salmond Reed Architects

LICENSED BUILDERS

ADDITIONS + RENOVATION SPECIALISTS

www.findmycar.nz nigel@findmycar.nz 027 606 3821

92 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

BUILDING WITH PASSION AND PRIDE

021 771 171 ямБxbuilders PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME RENOVATION

THE CLIMATE REVOLUTION Italian design brand 24Bottles has collaborated with British designer Vivienne Westwood as part of her Climate Revolution Campaign.

Together they have developed a carefully designed and reusable stainless-steel bottle by way of meaningfully reducing the use of plastic bottles once and for all.

Featuring the iconic 'Climate Revolution' graphic, Vivienne's war cry is to act now and stop climate change; the bottle is presented in a clean metallic gold finish, printed with a deep royal blue. The wide mouth is perfect for filling with ice and ease of cleaning.

By becoming part of the Worldwide Reforestation Project, the brands are fully committed to offsetting the overall amount of CO2 in the life cycle of every single bottle produced. Creating a lush forest of cacao, orange, coffee, avocado and mango trees in five countries, among others - this ever-growing woodland helps make the whole lifecycle of Clima bottles entirely carbon neutral.

You can do your part too and join the movement for a more sustainable future!

Every time you refill your Clima Bottle, instead of buying a disposable plastic water bottle, you save 80g of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere.

Clima merges form, function and environmental awareness. Its authentic, sleek stainless-steel design makes it perfectly convenient and easy to carry on any occasion, from office to the gym. Keep your hot drinks hot for 12 hours and your cold drinks cold for 24. Clima bottles are not only good for the planet but look great too! F PN Free shipping New Zealand wide - 24Bottles available from www.dayandage.co.nz

www.dayandage.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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IN THE HEART OF PIHA

43 Garden Road

This lovely house is well positioned in Garden Road. Just four minutes walk to Lion Rock and beach, and a similar stroll to the Piha store, cafe and library, yet tucked away in a quiet sheltered setting.

It offers a great layout for first home buyers, families or a holiday home with flexible spaces. It has a safe and secure fenced front yard with a tropical feel, perfect for children, pets and long summer lunches.

Two bedrooms upstairs, a well-appointed kitchen, open living room and heat pump are just some of the features of this property. Extra bunk room space downstairs (sleeps four or more) with its own toilet for the kids or for those extra summer guests. And there’s a view too, just walk up the path to the 'sunset seat' where you can check the surf, enjoy the panoramic vista and watch the sun going down behind Lion Rock. It has road level easy access without a steep driveway and plenty off-street parking spaces right next to the house.

If Piha is your destination then you want to be in Garden Road where you can walk to everything that this beautiful community has to offer, or if it’s just being able to carry your board to the beach, this is a must-see property.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Land area 900m2 - floor area 90m2 Two bedrooms/one bathroom - two toilets Plus, rumpus/bunk room with toilet Spacious separate kitchen Open living/dining areas with lots of light Fenced tropical garden - ideal for children and pets Sunset seat with lovely views to the beach and Lion Rock Heat pump Lock up storage Outdoor shower Laundry area Plenty of off-street parking

Sale price: low $800,000s Sherie O’Neill-Johnson M: 027 4755 055 E: sherie@pihaproperty.co.nz

Maria Fontes M: 027 327 3495 E: maria@pihaproperty.co.nz

Taken from a seat on the property

Call now for additional information or to book a viewing and have an opportunity to be on Garden Road. www.pihaproperty.co.nz/a-stroll-to-anywhere PIHA: Only 45 minutes-drive from Central Auckland, Piha is a place of tranquil power and beauty, with a long beach of fine black iron-sand, spectacular rugged and historic coastline populated by a small environmentally sensitive community. A mecca for swimmers, surfers and picnickers, Piha is the place where people go to ‘get away from it all’.

94 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

THE STORY OF 2A BAYFIELD ROAD A fabulous renovated Herne Bay home.

What was the ‘brief’ and what were you trying to achieve?

The brief was to create a versatile home with amazing spaces, whilst keeping the heritage facade. It was a very run down 1920s California bungalow with no off-street parking and heritage protection.

Demolished and dug out the back, put in new foundations and moved the front façade back to create an off-street car park.

Due to the rotten boards, it ended up being a ‘complete’ new build - the only original items remaining are the stained-glass windows which were re-sashed by McNaughton’s Joinery, and the curved bell of the house (the triangle by the road at the front). The result is a heritage Herne Bay home with the added advantage of internal modernisation.

How long did the renovation take?

18 months.

Who was the architect/builder/interior designer?

Architect: Greg Jones - he did a great job with a tricky site!

Builder: John Kearney Builders Ltd. Interior Designer: Janey Larsen.

Interior style?

Contemporary classic.

Best buy?

Handmade pendant lights.

Biggest investment?

The kitchen.

Top interior tip?

You can’t go wrong with light colours.

What was the building process like?

Complex. It was a tight site to work with, and last year's weather was super wet which caused a few delays.

Favourite room in the home and why?

The open plan upstairs living area - the tropical green outlook from the big sliding glass doors.

Any budget blow outs?

What budget?

Best tip for people planning a new build?

Do a detailed budget in advance. F PN

To view this fabulous home at 2A Bayfield Road, Herne Bay, contact Carl Madsen on M: 021 953 152, Barfoot & Thompson Ponsonby.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

AN AGENT OF CHOICE Blair Haddow’s clients and colleagues share why they enjoy working with him and continue to recommend their colleagues, friends and family members to Blair when selling their homes.

After almost a decade selling residential real estate throughout Greater Ponsonby, Blair’s passion continues to be assisting his clients in their property journeys at each stage of the property cycle.

Most of all, Blair is proud to support his local Ponsonby community.

He is a Bayleys Super Giver and personally donates to Make-A-Wish New Zealand - a wonderful foundation that supports and grants the special wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

Here, existing clients and colleagues share their experiences working with him.

Why did you choose Blair to market your home?

JAKE OLSEN - existing client I was introduced to Blair through a mutual friend. After the initial meeting with him, my wife and I felt very comfortable that he would be working in our best interests and subsequently we cancelled the following meetings we had with other agents. In our view, what makes Blair and his team stand out over other agents is their transparency and professionalism.

How do you find working with Blair consistently?

DANIEL COULSON Bayleys National Residential & Auction Manager We work in a marketplace that is quite dynamic. Someone who has been in the marketplace for quite some time like Blair has is always learning, always changing and always adapting. With Blair, there are

no surprises. It means we are always running with the same strategy and things always come before they are needed and I think that is testament of his dedication and anticipation of what people’s needs will be when selling.

Would you use Blair again?

GRETCHEN WILLIAMSON Craigs Investment Partners and existing client I recommend a lot of my clients to Blair. That for me is a very important thing to do because it is a trusted relationship I have with my clients that I then on-trust to somebody else. I think that just lets you know exactly how much confidence I have in him and his ability to deal with them professionally.

Why did you choose Blair to sell your Grey Lynn home?

SERISH KHAN & TANVEER ADAM - recent client From the moment we met Blair there was just something special about him. Any reasonably qualified agent can sell a property in a booming or buoyant market, but it takes great skill to sell a property at a time when the market is changing. Blair’s an intelligent agent with a deep understanding of his properties, the market and his demographic. He’s never boastful, though his sales and reputation speak for themselves. The foundation of any great and lasting relationship is ultimately trust and integrity and this is exactly what you get when you sign on with Blair. F PN

*To watch Blair’s video: Why I Do What I Do, please go online to: bit.ly/2PIQtfW

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Ryman Peace of Mind Not all retirement villages are the same...

Full continuum of care - keeping care at the heart of everything we do

Fixed weekly fee* - providing certainty about your living costs

Logan Campbell Retirement Village

*Terms and conditions apply plyy

%

Deferred management fee is capped at 20%

For more information phone Taryn or Lucy on 636 3883 187 Campbell Road, Greenlane

8642

Only ďŹ ve two-bedroom apartments left!

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COOL CHARACTER WITH BLACK & WHITE Black & White Property Management Ltd is Auckland city’s commercial character leasing specialists.

Company director Carolyn James says, “We specialise in placing cool companies into unique, quirky and bespoke spaces, not the usual boring corporate office. Tenants want spaces that invigorate and inspire them, somewhere that their team want to come to everyday and that showcases the dynamic companies they are.”

She says that cool spaces attract cool people, sometimes vital for the creative industries that tenants work in.

“Creative people want to work in a fun workplace. We only list properties we are excited and passionate about and that we ourselves would want to come to work in every day.

“Suburbs in Auckland in demand include Ponsonby, Herne Bay, Grey Lynn, Kingsland, Freemans Bay, Victoria Park, Parnell and Britomart. With that in mind we bring you this very funky space in the iconic Kiwi Bacon Factory building.”

Thanks to several stages of extensive renovations to create an exciting mix of vintage and new elements which includes a full seismic upgrade, the Kiwi Bacon Factory is now the much-loved home to some seriously cool creative and high-end executive companies. It is complete with a buzzing onsite cafe that offers some of the best food and coffee in the area as well as a full liquour licence for those summer business lunches.

On offer here is a gorgeous renovated Industrial Style 300m2 tenancy complete with soaring cathedral ceilings, huge exposed wooden beams, bathed in natural light from its abundance of skylights and large steel windows and views to the Waitakere Ranges. Polished concrete floors complete the picture of a true New York-style space to inspire and delight and showcase your business.

A slick makeover of the common areas sees an offering of stunning kitchen and bathrooms complete with showers and an amazing light-filled atrium and living walls.

The current tenants in the building love being on the fringe rather than in the city as it gives their staff and their clients the benefit of the ample onsite parking (as well as free street parking) and close proximity to buses and the train station The spinning giant Kiwi may be gone from the roof but keep an eye out for him in the cheeky artwork showcased on level 1.

To view call, Carolyn James, M: 021 734 189 or email carolyn@blackandwhite.net.nz; blackandwhite.net.nz REAA 2008

98 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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bayleys.co.nz | vipaucklandapartments.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN It’s the time of year when we start to yearn for the warmer, lighter days.

We want to see an end to those bleak grey skies and the artificial light. The first official day of spring has arrived and if you step outside, you will notice that as each day passes, you feel the flicker of sunshine on your face. There’s a sense of anticipation, renewal, growth, energy and new life.

I’m not quite sure what inspired me to write that first paragraph because, at the time of writing this, I’m only getting a sense of 'are we there yet', 'are we there yet?' It could be my imagination of course, but I seem to be surrounded by avian grumpiness. Well, to be fair, it’s a couple of birds, not all of them. You see, there’s a male tui which has been coming here for many years now. I’ve named him King Tui. His feisty behaviour has stepped up a notch, probably because he’s anticipating competition come springtime. King Tui has become so territorial that even I have to watch out for his manic swoops. The moment I step outside with his favourite fruit (orange) he appears out of nowhere and seems to skim the top of my head deliberately.

My other notable, regular visitor is a kereru. This bird sits and observes the activity here for most of the day. Sadly the berries on the nikau tree have all been eaten, but he still comes every day, just in case some more magically appear.

The thing I love the most about these two birds are the colours in their plumage. When the sun shines, the colours can only be described as iridescent. Simply stunning. Bring on spring. I simply can’t wait.

HEIDI PADAIN) F PN

To see some of Heidi’s other photographic work, go to www.flickr.com and type Heidi Padain into the search box, or, you can contact Heidi by email hidihi@xtra.co.nz, or look her up on Facebook... Heidi Padain Photography.

PONSONBY NEWS+ OCTOBER FEATURES Gardens and Outdoor Living CREATING BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACES FOR SUMMER

Travel and Accommodation PLANNING FUN HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES

Copy deadline: Thursday 20 September Published: Friday 5 October

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

APARTMINT: IN THE HEART OF PONSONBY Since its inception at the start of 2016, ApartMint has been the leader of new-build apartment sales in Ponsonby and the neighbouring city-fringe suburbs. “We’ve been very successful at building close relationships with some of the key players in the business and it’s fair to say that we’ve worked on almost every major development in the area,� says Nigel King.

The portfolio certainly makes impressive reading and includes Citizen, 59 France, SKHY, North, Crest, ParkView, Western Park, Hereford, Atelier, Nixon Central, Pollen Street, SOMA, Uno Duo, Nexus and Lot 22, as well as The International in the central city.

A division of Mint Real Estate, ApartMint prides itself on its boutique status and its commitment to a high-quality service, apartment expertise and knowledge of the market. The company has also expanded beyond its new-build roots to sell more existing stock and is more than happy to provide free appraisals for clients. “We are genuinely specialists in our field and act more as consultants than salespeople. We’re here to advise and recommend the best strategies for those looking to sell as well as listening closely to buyers’ needs before recommending the best apartment solution,� adds King.

ApartMint is supported by the other brands of Mint Real Estate, the DevelopMint division which sources and sells land for new apartment developments and ManageMint which provides long and short-term rental management. “There’s a clear synergy between the divisions, with each assisting the other to achieve their objectives. We also have a dedicated in-

Apartmint's latest project - 59 France, Eden Terrace house broker to provide financial expertise. In effect it’s a one-stop shop for both buyers and sellers.�

With a brand-new office in the prestigious Vinegar Lane development ApartMint has cemented its place as a key player in the apartment market and is now looking for new recruits to help grow the business further. “It’s a job that requires 100% focus and commitment and we won’t PN compromise on quality. We only want the best,� says King. F It certainly seems like a good time to be joining this apartment specialist. www.mintre.co.nz

Real Estate Career Beckoning?

JOIN THE LEADERS IN CITY FRINGE APARTMENT SALES.

Covering the key fringe locations of Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Freeman’s Bay, Eden Terrace and Kingsland, Mint Real Estate has established itself at the forefront of Auckland’s dynamic new build apartment market.

9KVJ C DTCPF PGY QHƂEG KP 8KPGICT .CPG 2QPUQPD[ YG CTG PQY UGGMKPI CP CFFKVKQPCN UCNGU RTQHGUUKQPCN to play a key role in the future development of the business. Ideally you will already have your real estate salesperson’s licence, but a hunger to succeed and a strong work ethic are the key requirements.

Initially we will provide you with the stock to sell, your role will involve sourcing, meeting and advising buyers on the best apartment opportunities that match their requirements.

Positive and enthusiastic, with well developed written and verbal communication skills, you will need to be disciplined, organised and have the ability to develop relationships quickly and easily.

This is your opportunity to learn from the best in the business in the most dynamic sector of the real estate industry and earn the money you deserve. We’ll teach you the skills, you just bring the desire and commitment.

Like to know more? Call Nigel King for an informal discussion.

NIGEL KING Licensed (REAA 2008)

Ponsonby’s Apartment Specialist

M: 021 055 2355 E: nigel@mintre.co.nz

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A HOME IN THE NEW HEART OF AUCKLAND, WYNYARD QUARTER Situated near one of the world’s most beautiful harbours which is set to host the 36th America’s Cup, 30 Madden’s modern apartments enjoy an abundance of nearby public spaces, parks, restaurants and cafes.

30 Madden offers an undeniably unique waterfront lifestyle within a diverse and vibrant community.

Designed by Studio Pacific Architecture and developed by Willis Bond & Co, 30 Madden has been crafted by an award-winning team with an exceptional track record. All details and specifications have been thoughtfully and thoroughly considered.

30 Madden comprises a mixture of studios, one, two and three bedrooms, maisonettes (two-storey apartments) and four exclusive penthouses.

Adorned with the finest fixtures and fittings, the apartments benefit from relaxed, open-plan living. Spacious bedrooms, beautifully tiled bathrooms, and kitchens finished with European appliances create the perfect environment for entertaining or unwinding.

The timeless yet contemporary exterior of 30 Madden perfectly complements the stylish and elegant interiors. Beyond the building, residents can find a sanctuary to read a book or a place to engage with family and friends in the versatile gardens of the private courtyard.

With a view of the city lights, the courtyard or the Waitemata Harbour, you will never be far from a stunning outlook.

Visit the open home at the 30 Madden display suite, located on the corner of Daldy and Madden Streets, Monday-Friday 12noon-2pm or Saturday-Sunday 2-4pm.

For further information please contact: Louise Stringer, PN M: 021 628 839 or Mike Thorpe, M: 021 877 351. F Visit us online at www.30madden.co.nz

102 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

A very approachable property expert with over 26 years in Auckland Real Estate

2017 TOP Salesperson Barfoot & Thompson, Grey Lynn branch Year ending 31 March 2017

Over 26 years selling Auckland real estate has awarded Repeka a substantial knowledge base and 26 years of shining testimony

027 499 0855 I r.lelaulu@barfoot.co.nz

APARTMENT LIVING – THE MODERN LIFESTYLE New Apartment Developments – Apartment Furnishings and Home Décor

LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT Contact joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz www.ponsonbynews.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

CAT RESCUED BY THE GREY LYNN FIRE SERVICE There was good news last month when a local cat was rescued from a tree in a Grey Lynn back garden.

As the owner explained, "I have no idea how long that poor cat had been in the tree, but he was clearly distressed. The fire service arrived with their fire engine and managed to get him down from a very difficult situation."

Successfully Selling Brilliant Homes In Your Neighbourhood FOR SALE BY AUCTION

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13 Reimers Avenue, Mt Eden • Substantial 756m2 level site, offers fantastic potential for expansion of this home.

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• Graden studio a real bonus.

From March to August I have successfully sold ALL my auction campaigns - five under the hammer and three within 24 hours of the auction.

Take confidence in my proven track record and expert negotiation skills to get your home sold for the best price possible.

Felicity Scott BBS | Residential Sales M 0274 522 241 B 09 376 3039 E f.scott@barfoot.co.nz | barfoot.co.nz/f.scott

104 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

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CREATIVE LIVING Premium apartments from the multi, award-winning combination of local developer, Urban Collective and Paul Brown Architects.

Located in the heart of Eden Terrace for chic city

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1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments. Prices from $565k to $2.6m Selling now, off the plans Call 0800 217 838 Email steve@urbancollective.co.nz Showroom at 28 Norwich Street Check website for times urbancollective.co.nz

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59FRANCE.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE UPDATE: KAREN SPIRES Auckland escaped the worst of the winter chill this year, as residential house prices remained largely stable amid a seasonal decline in sales volumes and supply levels.

The latest data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) has revealed that while sales volumes across the Auckland region fell by 25% between May and June, average sales prices increased by 0.5%.

For Auckland City alone, average sales prices increased by 4.3% between May and June, despite a 21.8% decline in the volume of sales.

REINZ Chief Executive Officer Bindi Norwell has spoken out about the lack of housing supply, which has continued to put pressure on prices across the country.

“The lack of housing supply continues to put pressure on prices in the majority of regions across New Zealand, with 12 out of 16 regions seeing a price increase since June last year,” she said.

“Until we solve the supply issue, house prices are likely to continue rising, particularly as the Official Cash Rate (OCR) remains low and the banks continue dropping interest rates.”

Norwell’s thoughts are echoed by Kiwibank’s chief economist Jarrod Kerr, and senior economist Jeremy Couchman.

Kerr and Couchman said in their latest Property Insights publication that there would not be any sharp falls in house prices while such a large supply and demand imbalance remained.

“There is a shortage of over 100,000 homes,” they wrote.

“Supply has not kept pace with demand. Demand is still growing, capacity constraints are being hit and Kiwis need more affordable dwellings.”

Kerr and Couchman are predicting that property prices in Auckland will continue to consolidate, before gaining traction into the mid-2020s.

The level of stock on the market is expected to pick up shortly, as spring commonly brings a surge of new listings to the market from those who have held off from selling over the winter months.

The number of houses on the market for sale peaks around October before slowly tapering off, as many people choose to conclude their property transactions before the start of the Christmas holiday period.

Last year, the traditional ‘spring surge’ failed to eventuate due to a number of challenging conditions. Uncertainty surrounding the upcoming election, coupled with poor weather conditions and buyers reacting to the banks tightening lending conditions, meant the market was sluggish to pick up at the beginning of spring.

Throughout the winter months this year we have seen positive political and economic conditions, with a return to a more stable housing market. This has meant we are no longer seeing the major price hikes or drops which have occurred in the past few years.

Buyers and sellers have had to adjust to the new norm where the value of a house is no longer likely to increase at a rapid speed, and sellers have had to be more realistic on their price expectations.

Across July, which is traditionally when prices reach their lowest point for the year, average property values across Auckland decreased only slightly by 0.1%, according to the latest figures from Quotable Value.

Regions bucking this trend included Central Auckland, where property prices increased by 0.5%.

QV senior consultant James Steele said while there were lower levels of activity over winter, sellers had been able to adjust their price expectations and had been more open to negotiation in order to achieve a sale.

All signs point to the real estate market setting itself up for an active spring, with a good demand for, and supply of, good PN quality homes. (KAREN SPIRES) F

Karen Spires AREINZ, M 027 273 8220, E karen.spires@bayleys.co.nz, www.karenspires.bayleys.co.nz

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Michal Martyniuk The name Michal Martyniuk is fast becoming known in the jazz scene. A pianist, Michal splits his time between his native Poland and New Zealand.

Having just placed second at the prestigious ‘Made in New York’ Jazz Competition in New York City, Michal has just released a brand new album of eight self-penned compositions.

The new album, entitled Nothing To Prove, was recorded earlier in 2018 at Poland’s Cavatina Studios and is being released off Polish based label SJ Records. The album features saxophones, guitar, double bass and drums, alongside Michal on piano. Two New Zealand-based artists, percussionist Miguel Fuentes and vocalist Tama Waipara make for surprise guests on the record.

Ponsonby News asked Michal a few questions about his musical background and his time performing alongside legendary New Zealand saxophonist, Nathan Haines.

What was your first musical experience?

“My granddad was a classical concert pianist. He was my first inspiration and piano teacher. My dad would play a lot of music at home and he had a huge CD collection. Music has always been around since I can remember.”

When did you move to New Zealand?

“I moved to New Zealand with my family in 2007. My parents say it was their best decision. I agree!”

What drew your to jazz as a musical path?

“Hearing jazz records played by my dad at home was a start. I fell in love with Pat Metheny Group, Weather Report and Miles Davis. Later at music school I met older students who played jazz and I remember hearing different chords that were different to classical music - 'jazz chords' and I was hooked. I went to the best jazz college in Poland and focused entirely on jazz. I also came and studied at the University of Auckland.”

How did you come to work with Nathan Haines?

“I met Nathan at the University of Auckland. He was teaching there at the time. We quickly become friends and musical partners. I remember when I broke my leg he would pick me up from home out west in his

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Porsche 911 and bring me to school - that was cool! Since then we have played a lot of music together and I was a regular in his band.”

How did you get to the competition in New York and what was it like?

“New York was great fun and an amazing experience. My girlfriend pushed me to sign up for the competition. It was an international competition judged by the best in jazz, Randy Brecker, John Patitucci, Mike Stern and Lenny White. I really didn't think I would win a second place and go to New York City to play my original music with those guys at the Gala concert. It was a mind-blowing experience! We spent a week there but it wasn't enough.”

How long has Nothing to Prove been in the works?

“I recorded it over four days in Poland last year. I brought it back to New Zealand and worked on it for a couple of months in my studio in Ponsonby. I also recorded Tama Waipara and Miguel Fuentes in New Zealand. It was mixed and mastered in Poland.

What does a day of composing look like for you?

“Writing and composing comes quite easy to me. I often start with chord progressions then the melody comes naturally. When is time to write something new I just sit at the piano and often I find something to work with. Sometimes it is just an idea but I don't have trouble coming up with new themes. I would really love to write for other people too. Writing and composing is my passion, perhaps even more than playing.”

How did you come to Ponsonby?

“Nathan had a studio in Ponsonby. When he moved it to his home I took the space. I was lucky!”

Michal is currently touring through Europe on the release of Nothing to Prove. He will return to New Zealand to release the album and play shows in the summer. (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F PN www.michalmartyniuk.com

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Holly Arrowsmith - Words on A Dawn I Remember Holly Arrowsmith has just released her second album, A Dawn I Remember. Ponsonby News spoke with Holly before the release, and talked songwriting, touring and recording.

Two American tours and many shows have been the story for Holly Arrowsmith in between her debut record, For The Weary Traveler, and this new one. A Dawn I Remember would take shape over two years and was written amidst a time of transition for the Arrowtown-raised, New Mexicoborn singer.

Holly spoke to the writing of the record, “I wrote the first song, or even the first couple of songs, ‘Winter Moon’ and ‘Farewell’, the week after I released my first album. I wonder whether that will happen again to me. It seems I get writer's block when I’m focusing on a project and as soon as that’s done, it’s relief.

“I wrote the songs here and there, it didn’t feel like it was over too long a period of time, although the process has been stretched out, just with life. I feel like this album, because it was written in a shorter amount of time than the last one, feels more cohesive thematically. It was written in a specific period of my life.”

This is where the transitions come in, Holly’s constant movement, travel and touring. She acknowledges the ironic nature of writing like this, “It’s the classic musician’s thing, writing about life on the road.

I don’t do it explicitly on any of these songs, but it was definitely during that period of time.”

‘Farewell’ the second single from the album is beautiful. She introduces it live with the nod to Auckland being quite an influence on the song. The imagery of Holly’s writing, the influences she takes so clearly from nature - valleys, mountains and rivers, is still present in ‘Farewell’ but you can hear the scorn for its opposite, the ‘big city’.

Its derision of individuals, and it’s lack of beauty.

“I’m going to a forest where the river is black with sin.

Will you welcome me in? Or spit me out again?”

A normal day of writing for Holly doesn’t really exist, it depends on her mood, her location and whether she’s had inspiration.

“I probably rely on my feelings a bit too much when writing, and just do it when I feel like it! Or if I feel inspired by something.

Actually, what really works for me is leaving town, booking an Airbnb somewhere nice and having a purpose to go and write. That’s how I wrote ‘Love Together’.”

A Dawn I Remember was recorded in two parts, firstly with Steve Roberts and Tom Lynch in Colac Bay, before Holly went to the home of the indie-folk sound in New Zealand, Ben Edwards and The Sitting Room.

108 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

“I started in Colac Bay with Tom and Steve, and we were there for two weeks. We got heaps done, the whole bones of the album, it was really fun and really productive. Because I’d come off a three-month tour, my voice was really strong, I felt like I was getting things after the first couple of takes, and that felt good. Then life happened, and the people I was working with weren’t able to finish it with me.”

Ben Edwards has recorded many award winning albums in recent years and is probably best known for his work with Nadia Reid, Aldous Harding, Marlon Williams and Tami Neilson. His studio, The Sitting Room, has put Lyttleton on the map as the place to go to record and produce an album.

“I contacted Ben Edwards and he really liked it and I wanted to keep it moving. I think I had another two weeks with him. I’m so grateful it worked out this way because he brought something entirely different to the album that I don’t think would have happened without him.”

Most of the work with Ben was on production, but they recorded ‘The Gardener’ and re-tracked ‘Slow Train Creek’, as well as added more layers and instruments with the likes of Anita Clarke (fiddle), Ryan Fisherman (bass) and tour-mate Zach Winters adding in banjo and harmonies from Oklahoma.

The final moments of ‘Love Together’, the lyrics, the imagery and the feelings that Holly crafted are the purest on the record.

“One day we’ll have our own home / Wooden, small and warm / We can grow our food on the wild lawn / On the lawn are wild children/ They look like us / We’ll teach them a little / but mostly they’ll teach PN us.” (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F www.hollyarrowsmith.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

CELEBRATING

10 YEARS

AT 35 CRUMMER RD

ARTS + CULTURE A DECADE IN GREY LYNN In 2008, Studio Art Supplies moved from Parnell, where we’d been well over 30 years, to Grey Lynn.

For all staff, our commute was happily now on foot, and we felt at home in our new warehouse conversion, which stocks New Zealand’s most exciting selection of artists' materials.

While the neighbourhood has always been arty, the past 10 years have seen most of Auckland’s dealer galleries move in just up the road - a dozen within a few minutes’ walk, and many more not-for-profit spaces! We’re proud to be in the middle of such a culturally rich area and seeing that more people than ever are being creative, in modest ways and grand.

Studio Art Supplies has assisted beginners and professionals with expert advice since 1974. Our store manager, Michael Mitchell, is proud of the SAS Team - between us there is no material problem too difficult or strange that we can’t tackle. We have the time and the expertise to work with artists, illustrators and all creative people on any project no matter how large or small.

The large store is jam-packed with a huge variety of art materials including extensive brush, paint and paper sections, as well as our amazing Custom Stretched Canvas department.

Your LOCAL Art Store

Open Mon-Fri 8.30-5.30 Sat 9.00-4.00 info@studioart.co.nz (09) 360 1238 The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Dean Tercel is our chief canvas craftsman, a perfectionist who has turned out more than 25,000 tailor-made canvases, from the tiny to the epic - each one special. We source cotton and linen direct from Europe and US, and stock a wide range of specially designed, locally made stretcher bars.

Our staff are actively involved in the arts community, through exhibitions, teaching and making sure you’re looked after in store. Evan Woodruffe, Dean Tercel, Wendelien Bakker, and Patrick Lundberg work with Michael to make Studio Art Supplies a creative and engaging place that welcomes all levels of creative endeavour. F PN Visit STUDIO ART SUPPLIES at 35 Crummer Road, Grey Lynn for a real fix of arty goodness! www.studioart.co.nz

Dean Tercel stretching another large canvas DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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ARTS + CULTURE @ ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY

First Tuesday Concert Ensemble East plays Beethoven for violin, cello and piano Beautiful Bounteous Beethoven 2 October 12.10pm There has been lots of excellent music at St Matthew over the past few months. The new concert grand piano arrived and, to dedicate it, Michael Houston performed an exquisite version of the Chaconne in D minor Bach/Busoni.

A few days later Lisa Chou played a short concert of Chopin, Schubert and Messiaen to thank donors of the instrument. She received a standing ovation for her beautifully crafted programme and searching interpretation.

On Tuesday 2 October Lisa Chou will be back performing with two colleagues in an allBeethoven concert as part of First Tuesday. The 40-minute programme includes some rarely heard Beethoven gems such as two sets of variation for cello and piano.

The theme of the first from Handel ‘See the conquering hero comes’ and the second Mozart. To conclude the concert Beethoven’s sonata no 3 for violin and piano, this although written in trying times for the composer, displays a carefree, vivacious quality.

The new Shigeru piano is a limited-edition, high-quality concert grand, the sound of which is perfect for the acoustic of St Matthew-in-the-City. Firm and full bass registers, melodic middle and sweet higher sounds allow for the sound to fill the space. It is also subtle enough to be both an accompanying and a solo instrument as necessary. F PN www.stmatthews.nz

Kathryn Stevens in studio

@ WHITESPACE

Kathryn Stevens: Switch Opening Sunday 9 September, on until 28 September The material and conceptual possibilities of ‘the fold’ permeate Kathryn Stevens’ latest series of works in her exhibition, Switch, Whitespace 9 - 28 September, 2018. Through composition, colour, line and surface, Stevens generates a conversation on each twodimensional surface that moves back and forth between concept and concrete space.

Stevens’ practice involves a sequential act of folding flat planes of paper to produce a range of intricate, small-scale assemblages, using these to examine, in the artist’s own words, ‘a map of possible planes’.

This conceptual approach creates a subtle tension in the spatial field of each painting.

Layers of gesso, acrylic and oil paint add material thickness that extends into the viewing space beyond each surface. Simultaneously, variations of tone, light and line work away from a sense of material depth through depictions of suspended, illusory space.

A palette of crimson and ruby, violet and azure is layered to create spatial recession while exposing the process of spatial illusion through the painted surface.

The works on show for Switch leave us to ponder spatial possibilities as ideas or physically defined, and the concept of folding as a generative process of becoming.

Kathryn graduated with a BFA painting from the Elam, University of Auckland in 1999.

WHITESPACE, 20 Monmouth Street, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz

110 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING @ THE GREY PLACE

@ OREXART

In her new collection Deborah Moss invites viewers into the beauty, mystery and energy of the native New Zealand forest.

There is a cultural tendency to inscribe land as either feminine deity or something to be both worshiped while, being broken, cultivated and fertilised. Both tendencies believe the inherent contradictions that exist between the romances of tenderness and care and the realities of possession and control.

Chorus of the Forest - Deborah Moss 18 - 29 September Celebration: Saturday 22 September, 2 - 4pm

A deep communion with the forest surrounding her countryside studio translates into expressive and colourful paintings charged with emotion.

In the past five years the Wainui artist’s green horizon has been transformed by North Auckland’s rampant urbanisation - a catalyst for creating a potent body of work that explores love and loss, questions around land guardianship and the contemporary PN environmental tragedy of development. F THE GREY PLACE, 37 Scanlan Street, Grey Lynn, T: 021 98 77 66, www.thegreyplace.nz

Wes Fieldhouse - In You the Earth 8 - 29 September Opening: 8 September 1-3pm

The works in this exhibition, while largely driven by paint and process, with no didactic intent are, in some ways, also a reflection on all of this - on our environmental uses and abuses. As for the genre, landscape painting has long been neglected for more contemporary modes.

To make a landscape painting in the 21st Century seems to be an almost quaint and useless endeavor. Yet, at a time when our environments are increasingly threatened, making space to revisit the genre seemed worthwhile. (Wes Fieldhouse, August 2018) Please contact rex@orexart.co.nz for details.

OREXART, 15 Putiki Street, Arch Hill, T: 09 378 0588, www.orexart.co.nz

Deborah Moss, Listening to heaven

Deborah Moss, Wainui

18 – 29 SEPT 2018 Celebration 22 SEPT, 2 – 4pm

Deborah Moss ‘Chorus of the Forest’ The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

37 Scanlan St Grey Lynn www.thegreyplace.nz

8 - 29 September

15 putiki street, arch hill open tue-sat, 09 3780588

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ARTS + CULTURE

OF THIS EARTH

A botanical offering by Katherine Throne and Felicity Jones Allpress Studio, 30 October - 9 November Oil paint and foraged flora are combining in a botanical celebration that guarantees to feed the soul.

Grey Lynn locals, artist Katherine Throne and botanical stylist Felicity Jones’s upcoming collaborative exhibition Of This Earth at Allpress Studio explores our connection to the natural world. Their message is simple: slow down, notice the simple but breathtaking natural beauty around us, and connect to the grounding energy it offers.

The exhibition follows on from the duo’s successful collaboration Wallflower at Allpress Studio last year. As well as the painting collection and floral installation, this year’s exhibition features two floristry workshops in the studio where Felicity will be passing on her secrets of creating a gorgeous bouquet and styling a fabulous centerpiece. Spaces will be limited so bookings are essential.

Both artists believe our relationship to the earth is essential for human wellbeing. Felicity believes that our connection to the botanical world is instinctive. “It’s in our DNA,” she says. “Often people don’t realise how important it is, then they receive flowers and are surprised by the joy they bring.” Tapping into this emotional connection is primal and vital, they believe, the faster and more complex our lives become.

Katherine adds that our alignment to the botanical world is fundamental to human life on earth. “Trees, plants, flowers, healthy soil - they are essential for our human survival.” The problem, she says, is when we don’t care about what we don’t know about. Although their materials are different, the artists are united in their goal of highlighting the botanical and arousing an emotive response that leads to increased knowledge and interest in gardens and green spaces.

Slowness is also a big factor. For Felicity, that means growing her own flowers without chemicals, or supporting local growers if she needs more than her small garden can provide. Her commitment to sustainable floristry practices has led to a refusal to use floral foam - a particularly toxic product prevalent in the floristry industry.

For Katherine, it’s about looking and noticing - the parts of the garden that are left to ramble or the way light refracts through layers of undergrowth. “I’m interested in the energy the botanical world surges with and translating that into marks on a canvas,” she says. “That energy in a painting can have a profound impact.”

Of This Earth runs from 30 October to 9 November at Allpress Studio in Freemans Bay. Floral workshops on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 November, email info@felicityjones.co.nz for bookings. F PN Follow me on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/katherinethrone 027 532 1975 - @katherinethrone www.katherinethrone.com

112 PONSONBY NEWS+ September 2018

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE

UPTOWN ART SCENE Over 30 years ago and as a much younger man, I remember being perplexed by Philippa Blair’s wild paintings with their riots of mark and colour on canvas often cut into crazy shapes.

It was equal parts youthful ignorance of art and wonder at how the perennially positive, smiley woman buying paints at Studio Art Supplies could turn into a whirling wheel of wild gestures. In the mid-1980s, Philippa had regular shows at Auckland’s RKS where I grew to enjoy her free, almost reckless approach to abstraction. There was a joyous cacophony in her painting, like being at a noisy, happy party.

In the 1990s, Philippa moved to Los Angeles, and began showing in the US and Europe. She continued showing regularly in New Zealand, but mostly outside Auckland, so I guess I missed the inimitable character I now associated with the paintings and her work moved off my radar.

Philippa Blair 'Nomad' at OREXART

Philippa moved back to Grey Lynn a couple of years ago for family, and immediately announced her sunny disposition in the store, re-stocking her painting supplies and getting straight to work in a new studio. It was a real pleasure to check out her works in the Journeys exhibition at OREXART a couple of weeks ago (also featuring Richard McWhannell and Tony Lane) and see that her obvious delight of movement and colour had intensified with age.

Anything hasty about her mark-making has matured into a focused vigour: ‘Nomad’ waltzes along, a tangle of black and blue on a split yellow and orange background. There’s more than waltzing going on in ‘Bandeon-ista’ - this is a self-confessed tango painting, all quick turns, dips, poise and drama.

It’s great to welcome Philippa back into the neighbourhood - artists help keep the culture of our area dynamic and colourful, and even perplexing for some, as someone in their seventies continues to conduct merry chaos on her canvas. (WILL PAYNT, STUDIO ART SUPPLIES) F PN

Philippa Blair 'Defence' at OREXART

Philippa Blair 'Bandeon-ista' at OREXART The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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Clothing Alterations

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