The Hobson - September 2014

september 2014

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the father’s day gallery • a parnell wedding local news, views & informed opinions

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Important Paintings and Contemporary Art: November 27th Consignments Now Invited Contact Ben Plumbly, Director of Art ben@artandonject.co.nz 021 222 8183

Colin McCahon Homage to Ingres (detail) gouache and ink and wash on paper, 1954 490 x 620mm Provenance: Gifted by the artist to Don Wood, founding Director of the Ikon Gallery and the artist’s dealer from 1960–1965, on the occasion of his wedding.

Realised $87 935 (August 2014)

www.artandobject.co.nz

Showroom Located at

Web Gladstone Road / 76Parnell - Auckland / BromheadDesign.com /

Email Info@BromheadDesign.com

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The September Issue

10

the village Movers and shakers on Parnell Rd, local students honoured by the Sir Peter Blake Trust, a shout-out for ’60s clothes, and more

15

the plan Hamish Firth considers what makes the cut as “heritage”

16

the candidates Seven men and women want to be Epsom’s next MP. The Hobson questions them all

20

the boards Waitematā Local Board chair Shale Chambers and Orākei’s Desley Simpson on local matters

21

the opinion Epsom list MP Paul Goldsmith’s regular column

22

the district diary What’s going on in the neighbourhood this month

26

37

27

40

the suburbanist Tommy Honey has his allen key ready for IKEA the arts Put aside your preconceptions and consider The Walters Prize

28

the GALLERY We celebrate Father’s Day with a special portfolio starring local dads and their offspring

33

the wheeze Stuck for Father’s Day gift ideas? Eloise Grace to the rescue!

34

the handsome Smell good and look smooth this Father’s Day

35

the wellbeing Cholesterol isn’t all bad, says Lee Parore

36

the investment Warren Couillault considers share price volatility

the journey Adrian Barkla explains why Omaha, Nebraska, was his travel destination the wedding Amber Whitecliff and Elroy Pinto marry in style in Parnell’s historic Catholic Church of St John the Baptist

44

the cinema Our newest feature — what we want to watch this month

45

the bookmark An eclectic mix for dads or anyone

46

the sound The best, the coolest, the incomparable ....

47

the plot Get sowing now for an abundant supply of veges

48 the pause

Sandy Burgham and the modern dad

win a

bmw

luxury weekend with

and

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W

in your dad (or a very special person in your life) a weekend of total luxury in our deluxe Father’s Day competition. The Hobson’s friends at Jerry Clayton BMW are handing over the keys* of a new BMW for a whole weekend. Enjoy driving pleasure as you set the nav for The Black Swan Hotel in Rotorua. The hosts of the Black Swan, a sophisticated five-star boutique hotel fronting the lake, are offering two nights for two in a luxury room, and breakfast. Relax and recharge in this tranquil spot before easing back into the driver’s seat and heading home again. To enter, email “Luxury Weekend” in the subject line to business@thehobson. co.nz by 5PM Friday September 19. A winner will be chosen at random. *By entering, you understand and agree with the following: that the BMW driver will be over 25 and has a full NZ driver’s license. No smoking or pets in the car, an insurance excess of $2500 applies.

The car can be collected from Jerry Clayton BMW, 445 Lake Rd, Takapuna, on a Friday and returned on the Monday. The BMW and accommodation package at the Black Swan must be taken at a mutually agreeable date before December 1 2014. Car pictured not necessarily the same model as the vehicle to be provided.

Newmarket 6A Teed St | Remuera Cnr Remuera Rd & Clonbern Rd | Ponsonby 59 MacKelvie St | Online www.gregory.net.nz

H

issue 11, september 2014 Editor & Publisher Kirsty Cameron editor@thehobson.co.nz Art Direction & Production Stephen Penny design@thehobson.co.nz Advertising Inquiries business@thehobson.co.nz Writers This Issue Kirsty Cameron, Josie Desmond, Zac Fleming, Eloise Grace, Melissa Williams-King Proofreader Fiona Wilson Intern Josie Desmond Columnists & Contributors This Issue Sandy Burgham (The Second Act), Peter Bromhead, Warren Couillault (The Investment), Andrew Dickens (The Sound), Paul Goldsmith (The Opinion), Hamish Firth (The Plan), Tommy Honey (The Suburbanist), Lee Parore (The Wellbeing), Caitlin McKenna (The Cinema), Leigh Melville (The Arts), Paul Thompson (The Plot), Melissa Williams-King (The Handsome), Gail Woodward (The Bookmark) and Shale Chambers, Paul Goldsmith, Desley Simpson

appy Birthday to us! The Hobson celebrates its first anniversary with this issue. It’s been a fast year since we launched — a print publication leaping boldly into a digital world. But what we wanted to do with The Hobson was never about matching your online reading for speed and newsbreakingability. Our aim was to create a local magazine with a neighbourhood connectiveness that can’t be found online. A magazine which connects, informs and entertains our community, a place to share and celebrate what goes on around here. Ten issues in, we think we’ve done that, but of course the magazine will continue to evolve — we make changes and tweaks to every issue.

This month, we introduce our new film page, The Cinema. The page is supported by a new advertiser, Rialto Newmarket, but the films selected for inclusion, and opinions of them, are our those of our new film writer, Caitlin McKenna. Caitlin lives in Remuera and recently graduated with a BCom/BA majoring in film and TV studies, sociology and marketing — more about her in the next issue. Our recent readership survey (thank you to all who participated) turned up some interesting findings and feedback that we’ll be acting on, as you’ll see over the next few issues. Generally, you’re reading pretty much everything in the magazine and enjoy our regular columnists (missing from this issue is psychologist Dr Amrit Kaur, who will rejoin us in October).

“We make an effort to support businesses who advertise in The Hobson,” commented one survey respondent. Thank you — for without them, The Hobson does not exist. To all the businesses and services who choose to advertise with us, a special birthday salute. Cheers to us all,

Kirsty Cameron, Editor

We’d like to thank the Academy ... our March edition, left, is a finalist for “Best Cover” in the upcoming Magazine Publishers Association awards. Pleased!

Photographers Anna Allport, Todd Eyre, John Harris, Stephen Penny, Max Wilson

Congratulations to Natasha Buchanan and Joshua Leckie, winners of Spyder ski jackets from Newmarket’s Snow Centre in our July-August issue competition

Cover Chris Dickson and daughters Rose, left, and Grace photographed by Todd Eyre on Hobson Bay. See page 28 The Hobson is published 10 times a year by The Hobson Limited, PO Box 37490 Parnell, Auckland 1151. www.thehobson.co.nz F: TheHobsonMagazine T: @thehobson Ideas, suggestions, advertising enquiries welcome. editor@thehobson.co.nz Or via Facebook: www.facebook.com/ TheHobsonMagazine The content of The Hobson is copyright. Our words, our pictures. Don’t steal, and don’t borrow without checking with us first. We aim for accuracy but cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies that do occur. The views of our contributors are their own and not necessarily those of The Hobson. We don’t favour unsolicited contributions but do welcome you getting in touch via editor@thehobson.co.nz to discuss ideas.

She’s back: Our girl about the neighbourhood, Eloise Grace, left, returns in this issue to opine on Father’s Day gifts. The Wheeze, page 33.

The Hobson is Remuera and Parnell’s community magazine. We deliver into letterboxes in these neighbourhoods and copies are also at local libraries, cafes, and at businesses including Vicky Ave and White Heron dairies, and Paper Plus Parnell.

For more about us, visit www.thehobson.co.nz or TheHobsonMagazine on Facebook.

Distribution by

This publication uses vegetable based inks and environmentally responsible papers.

202

PARN E L L

ROAD

Occupying one of the most prominent positions on Parnell Road For Lease •

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Comprehensive building refurbishment with seismic to 100% NBS

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A new owner who has an absolute long term view of investing in Parnell

Murray Tomlinson 0274 937 927 City Commercial | m.tomlinson@barfoot.co.nz

The Columnists

Left to right from top row:

The Hobson’s cartoonist, Peter Bromhead MNZM also writes for the New Zealand Herald. A long-time Parnell resident, his Gladstone Rd-based business, Bromhead Design, retails contemporary furniture.

Sandy Burgham (The Second Act) is a brand strategist and an executive coach with a special interest in midlife change and transformational behaviours. She runs a central Auckland practice. www.sandyburgham.com Remuera resident Warren Couillault (The Investment) is a partner in and director of Richmond Investment Management, the manager of a boutique fund of hedge funds. He is a shareholder in and director of Generate Investment Management Ltd; manager of a registered Kiwisaver scheme and an adviser to S.AG Private. www.richmond.co.nz Andrew Dickens (The Sound) is the host of Andrew Dickens’ Sunday Cafe on Sunday morning, from 9am, on Newstalk ZB. He is also the music reviewer on Jack Tame’s Saturday morning show on Newstalk ZB. He grew up in Remuera.

Hamish Firth (The Plan) lives and works in Parnell. He is principal of the Mt Hobson Group, a specialist urban planning consultancy. mthobsonproperties.co.nz Urban design critic Tommy Honey (The Suburbanist) of Remuera is a former architect, now Dean of College at Parnell’s Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design.

Leigh Melville (The Arts) is the art department manager at ART + OBJECT auction house. She has worked for several Auckland galleries and is currently co-chair of the Patrons of the Venice Biennale.

Lee Parore (The Wellbeing) is an expert in executive health. A qualified naturopath and a personal trainer to elite athletes and executives, he works with both men and women at his wellness clinic in Newmarket. www.leeparorehealthlab.com Paul Thompson (The Plot) is behind www.podgardening.co.nz, and a passionate proponent of edible gardening.

One of New Zealand’s leading beauty and lifestyle editors, Remuera’s Melissa Williams-King (The Pretty/The Handsome) is a former editor of Fashion Quarterly.

Gail Woodward (The Bookmark) is the senior book buyer for Paper Plus Newmarket. A “forgiving reader” across genres, she belongs, and advises on selections, to book clubs.

the hobson 8

PAUL GOLDSMITH NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN EPSOM

107 Great South Road, Greenlane PO Box 26 153 Epsom, Auckland 1344 P: 09 524 4930 E: paul.goldsmith@parliament.govt.nz W: www.paulgoldsmith.co.nz facebook.com/PaulGoldsmithNZ SISAL FLOORCOVERINGS

Funded by Parliamentary Service and authorised by Paul Goldsmith 107 Great South Rd Auckland

www.national.org.nz

96 ST GEORGES BAY RD, PARNELL. ARTISANSISAL.CO.NZ

the village

Town & Around Power Players The newly-formed PR and communications consultancy of Graham Brewer Simich & Associates has the tagline “Promote, Protect, Connect”, but it could be “Promote, Protect and Connected” given the partners’ networks, especially on the blue side of the political ledger. Carrick Graham, son of former Minister of Justice/Treaty negotiator Sir Doug, is a well-experienced reputation and issues management consultant. The Brewer is Cameron, current Auckland City councillor, former staffer to then-PM Jenny Shipley; Rodney Hide and John Banks; and bright young thing of the right. The Simich is Ricardo, son of now-retired National MP for Tamaki, the Honourable Clem. He has a publicity background and is one of the most connected — and well-turned out — men in town. They’ve opened for business in Parnell a stone’s throw from NSP, although they insist there will be little time Shooting the breeze: Brewer, left, Graham and Simich in their new Parnell headquarters. for social schmoozing (although Carrick has discovered their WiFi works from ELLE’S Belles NSP’s front bar). Their local credentials run deep: they live respectively in Remuera, Meadowbank and The latest pop-up installation from the innovative New Zealand Parnell. Graham was at one time chair of Parnell’s business body, Fashion Museum opens at Britomart this month. “ELLE and the and Brewer the CEO of Newmarket Business Association. “We’re Youthquake: The changing face of fashion” looks at the youthfocusing on promoting and protecting individual, business and driven style of the 1960s through the eyes of Kiwi designer Wendy Ganley and her ELLE label. Fashion Museum founder Doris du brand reputations,” says Brewer of the power partnership. p Pont is still keen to hear from people who may harbour ELLE designs in their personal archive, and also from young designers You’re looking swell, ELLE. (Image below right courtesy of who may like to take part in a shop that will run concurrently with The Waikato Times, 1969). the exhibition. Email doris@fashionmuseum. org.nz for further information. ELLE and the Youthquake will run from September 27 until October 19 at the Nathan Gallery, Britomart (with thanks to sponsors Cooper & Co). p The Epsom Candidates in Person Polling day is September 20 and the Remuera Residents Association will host a “Meet the Candidates” evening on Wednesday September 10 at 7.30pm at the King’s School hall, Remuera Rd. The event will be moderated by retired High Court judge, the Hon Peter Salmon, who is deputy chair of the Residents Association. All welcome. p Breast Cancer Seminar at King’s Very short notice for this edition, but the Breast Cancer Network NZ will host a day-long seminar at King’s School, Remuera, on Saturday August

the hobson 10

30. Speakers will include several medicos with special interest in cancer prevention, including Canterbury Professor of Toxicology Ian Shaw on environmental and food risk factors. There are also speakers addressing the role of chronic stress in cancer.

For further information email admin@bcn.org.nz or call Heather Moore, 021 239 4639. p Au Revoir Remuera Under the supervisory eye of Remuera community constable Tye Tahuriorangi, Air France country manager Darren McGregor and House of Travel Remuera assistant manager Geoff Leslie drew the winner of Remuera’s “French in July” festival prize. The lucky entry slip belonged to Shirley Sidnam of Remuera, who won the trip for two to Paris courtesy of Air France, with a week’s accommodation at La Demeure, thanks to House of Travel Remuera. Shirley had put her entry form in at Jeni’s Hair Studio in the Village Green. p

Darren McGregor, left, and Geoff Leslie get ready to make the prize draw at the House of Travel office.

Sir Peter’s Young Leaders Since 2005, the Sir Peter Blake Trust has awarded prizes of special recognition to young New Zealanders in memory of the late Kiwi sailor and environmentalist Sir Peter Blake. Primary and intermediate students are nominated by their schools, and are, says Trust CEO Shelley Campbell, children who “demonstrate positive leadership in their schools and communities” and who “work hard to make their goals and dreams happen”.

These are all qualities that Blake himself valued, and the Sir Peter Blake Trust, in partnership with Westpac, aims to keep inspiring young Kiwis to acquire skills of leadership and commitment.

“We hope that receiving a Young Leader Award will help to develop [a student’s] self-confidence even further and inspire them to keep on achieving,” says Campbell. “Recognising and celebrating their success also shows other students what great leadership looks like, so they can aspire to do the same.” The 2014 recipients of Young Leader’s awards in The Hobson’s area included: 4

the village

ORGANIC RED QUINOA w i th t

C R A N B E R RY SALAD S rv Se r es 4 -6 6

Antonio Adzievski, Newmarket School Katherine Nicholls, Parnell District School Daniel Woud, Mt Hobson Middle School Cameron Daugherty, Remuera Intermediate Hugh Marshall, Auckland Normal Intermediate Thomas Wynne, Mt Carmel School Emma Hamilton, St Cuthbert’s College Victoria Hutt, Diocesan School for Girls Lara Johns, Diocesan School for Girls (Junior) Benjamin Lemer, Saint Kentigern Boys’ School — Josie Desmond p

250g cooked red quinoa 200g blanched broccoli owerettes 100g cranberries 1 Lemon juiced and zest roughly 200g grated carrots 20g fresh mint roughly chopped 200g diced tomato 1/4 cup olive oil 1 tsp pepper

Place quinoa in ample cold water.

Bring to boil and reduce to simmer.

Stir, cook till tender (approx 15 mins).

Drain and set aside to cool.

Soak cranberries in water for at least 30 mins.

Drop broccoli owerettes into a pot of boiling water for 3 mins.

Drain and drop into iced water for 5 mins, drain and place in fridge.

Toss grated carrot, quinoa, broccoli, mint, cranberries and tomatoes.

Place in bowl, dress with olive oil and pepper.

Salad at its best served chilled..

Recipe by Peter Chaplin

All ingredients available at

10 Clonber n Road Mon thru Sun 7am till 11pm www.newworld.co.nz/remuera

Parnell District School Year 8 student Katherine Nicholls received her Young Leader Award from Westpac Parnell’s Sheila Lal. Photo courtesy of the Nicholls family.

Everybody Loves Good Neighbours The food wholesalers and agents James Crisp Ltd will move for the second time in the company’s 96-year history when they take possession of 202 Parnell Rd. The building, formerly owned and occupied by the Real Estate Institute of NZ, has been somewhat controversial in recent years, with locals and the neighbouring Catholic church of St John the Baptist upset about the REINZ’s plans to develop the site. But that’s all history and plans are now proceeding (resource consent has been issued) for renovation to the building to create offices on the first floor for the 40-plus staff of James Crisp, and retail or a showroom in the 575m2 at street level. “We’ve been on Anzac Ave for 40 years,” says Richard Hall, who with brother Henry, owns and directs James Crisp, which was founded by their great-uncle. “We had been looking for a standalone building on a nice block of land for a while. When the REINZ put this on the market, we couldn’t believe it.”

Hall, who also lives locally, says the development of the Parnell rail station was another incentive to move to the area. “We are dedicated to presenting a good looking building.”

The Parnell Community Committee agrees, awarding the development “the Parnell tick”.

“They consulted widely with the community and the design will enhance the building,” says PCC chair Luke Niue. “It’s architecturally well-designed and it’s respectful of the trees in front.

It’s certainly much better than the four-storey monstrosity proposed by the Real Estate Institute four or five years ago that would have drowned the church in shade.”

The project will be managed by Beca and work includes earthquake strengthening to 100 per cent of the National Building Standard. Leasing enquiries should be directed to Murray Tomlinson at Barfoot and Thompson Commercial, 0274 937 927 p

202 Parnell Rd, before and after. The “new” building will extend out to create retail space at street level, but the building’s height remains the same. And the new neighbours will have new neighbours too: the restaurant/bar next door at 196 Parnell Rd is currently being developed by restaurateur Mark Wallbank, the man behind Ponsonby Central’s Blue Breeze Inn.

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the village Farewell Brian Brian Rapana, the man who lived in the Rose Gardens for quite some time — no-one knows exactly, it could have been five years or more — died suddenly in late July. A familiar sight with his black rubbish bags of possessions marking his preferred bench looking out over Gladstone Rd to the sea, he was a gentle presence in the community. After his death of a suspected heart attack, locals left flowers, notes and momentos including coffee and a piece of toast. A remembrance ceremony conducted by an Auckland City Mission deacon was held in the Rose Gardens, with Parks staff planting a scented camellia in his memory. p Brian Rapana, photographed two months ago by Auckland student Max Wilson. Photo courtesy of Max Wilson.

Retiring on Rawhiti Faced with falling membership, Remuera’s Rawhiti Bowling Club has sold, with reported plans for a retirement community on the 5954m2 property. The $8.1 million sale by tender to BeGroup Ltd was conducted

by Bayleys’ David Rainbow. We were not able to contact BeGroup’s Guy Eady, who told the Herald he grew up “100 metres away from the bowling club” and wants to develop highquality dwellings for retirees. p Baching It Parnell’s Leslie Preston has opened new offices at 5 Akaroa St, Parnell, for her burgeoning Bachcare business.

Set up by Preston 10 years ago to look after bach owners’ needs in the Coromandel, the company now books, maintains and manages close to 1000 holiday homes nationally. p

the plan

A

Our Built Heritage & What We Value

constant concern in Parnell, Newmarket and Remuera is that buildings that we regard as having heritage value are not protected, and are being demolished at an alarming rate. It may be some comfort that the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan has put in place a higher threshold of what may be protected, allowing for an assessment against specific criteria of pre-1944 dwellings before demolition or removal can occur.

Heritage is a difficult concept to define and most people will have an idea of what heritage is. It is self-defining and focuses on the intrinsic value we place on things. Choices are made every day about what to conserve and what to discard, what memorials to preserve and what to let go. And views of what is “heritage” change over time. Heritage is a term often used to describe buildings that are old, rather than buildings that have heritage merit. Auckland Council has lost a number of court cases when defending the protection of “old” buildings.

In some cases, our desire to protect may be a combination of the fear of losing our colonial history, and the greater fear that the rate of change and the replacement ­­— being “modern art” — is out of place. But is protecting all old buildings from demolition the

The Parnell Baths were Auckland’s first saltwater baths.

Constructed at Judge’s Bay by Auckland City Council, the baths have become an iconic and well-loved location for swimmers of all ages. While the outdoor public swimming facility dates back to the 1880s, they have been highly modified over the years. The first saltwater baths were built in 1914. Further modifications and improvements were made until the 1940s.

A major redevelopment was undertaken in the 1950s when a lido atmosphere was created. Renovations in 2003 and 2010

answer? Do we believe that every worker’s cottage and bungalow is sacred, and that the present has nothing to contribute to the fabric of our built form?

There is a popular interest in building conservation and there are wonderful examples and areas where the protection and conservation of our built form add to the vibrancy of our city. On the other hand, there are new award-winning buildings that will become the heritage of our future.

Being able to connect one’s self to the past, and to the collective past of others, increases our cultural capital. However, society must be able to progress, and grow, and change and this means that we must make judgement calls on when to protect and what to protect.

An example of when we protect can be demonstrated no better than the Parnell Baths. Should we have protected the 1914 form? Or the 1940s upgrade? No, we decided the 1950s upgrade was where the line was drawn in the sand. The pictures on this page paint a wonderful history of an asset in use that sits on our waterfront today.

By the way, it is our guess at Mt Hobson Group that we would never get resource consent for the Parnell Baths today. Thank goodness for our forebears’ foresight. — Hamish Firth

strengthened the 1950s style of the baths and conservation work reinstated the quality of original detailing, materials, spatial arrangement and colour scheme. Facilities now include the main pool for lane swimming, water playground and toys, partially heated children’s pool, three hot pools and a cafe. While the Parnell Baths are a Scheduled Category B item in Auckland Council’s District Plan (Isthmus Section), they are considered to be a heritage site of Auckland. Photos: Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries

the hobson 15

the candidates

We, The People

The Hobson’s home electorate of Epsom has seven candidates wanting our vote on September 20, so writer Zac Fleming put some illuminating questions to each nominee. Answers have been edited for length and presented in alphabetical order. The candidates are: Julie Anne Genter, Green (list MP since 2011); Paul Goldsmith, National (list MP since 2011); Grace Haden, Independent; Pat O’Dea, Mana; Christine Rankin, Conservative; David Seymour, ACT; Michael Wood, Labour.

In 50 words, where have you come from and where are you going? genter I grew up in Los Angeles, then studied at Berkeley. I fell in love with New Zealand and made it my home, working as a transportation planner.

I became an MP for the Green Party because I want to help our country, Auckland in particular, be ready for the 21st century. goldsmith I come from around here.

My wife and I have raised a family in the Epsom electorate these past 13 years. We love the community and the schools, and we’re here to stay. I’m looking to make the best contribution that I can. haden I left the police as a police prosecuting sergeant to be a mother. I later became a private investigator and stumbled on serious public corruption that the government has concealed. I was taken to court, denied justice or a defence, and through this I have become an anticorruption campaigner. o’dea I’m of European Irish ancestry, originally from Orakei. I went to school at Dilworth, grew up in this area and still have friends here. I still spend a lot of my leisure time here, especially in beautiful Cornwall Park. I began with Mana at the protest against the subdivision of Bastion Point. rankin I have been the CEO of Work and Income and The Sake of our Children Trust, a child advocate, a Families Commissioner, a local body politician, the CEO of the Conservatives. With the support of the voters, I will be the next MP for Epsom, representing Epsom values in Parliament.

From top: Julie Anne Genter, Paul Goldsmith, and Grace Haden

seymour I’ve come from extraordinary luck, to live in New Zealand, in 2014, from a nurturing family.

the hobson 16

Any one of those is to hit the jackpot. To have all three is extraordinary. I believe that these factors are owed to good public policy, so I’ve devoted my career to improving it. wood I’m a proud Aucklander, husband, Anglican, and dad of two. At different times I’ve worked in retail, as a negotiator, and now as a local board member. I believe that change is always possible and want to be part of building a New Zealand that is prosperous, fair, and sustainable.

What do you think Epsom voters want? genter To live in a city with a proper, modern, integrated transport system, and vibrant, people-friendly streets. goldsmith For John Key to remain prime minister and National in government, because we’re making good progress as a country. They also expect a strong National voice from Epsom in Parliament. haden Representation and a voice in parliament, attention between elections, an MP who cares about the community and not just votes, accountability of government, honesty and transparency, and an MP who acts on their behalf. o’dea What all people want, they want to have the freedom to make their own choices freely, openly, without pressure, and without manipulation. rankin Epsom voters are savvy and strategic. They have the intelligence and common sense to vote for the person that best represents their views and is best able to achieve their aims. seymour To build our lives, families, homes and businesses in a stable environment, without government

haden Because of my career and personal experience I am well-versed in the ways of government and the public service. I have the ability to help, support, and as a resident, represent the people of Epsom. o’dea By convincing the good folk of Epsom not to vote for ACT, and instead vote for the party that they best think represents their values and aspirations. rankin I have a track record of service throughout my career. I have never been known to shy away when things get tough and I am not afraid to pursue things 110 per cent that I know to be right. I believe my record in this case speaks for itself. seymour Right now the most important goal is to retain the current government. The alternative looks deeply unfit to govern and would be highly destabilising if they implemented their various promises.

Top: Pat O’Dea, and below; Christine Rankin

imposing high taxes and sudden changes on any of the above. A society that gives equal opportunities and preserves our natural environment. wood To be treated with respect. An end to deal-making designed to prop up the ACT Party, and to once again have honourable representation in Epsom.

How will you achieve that? genter Campaigning on smarter transport spend so Auckland can catch up with other cities. The first step is the Auckland City Rail Link, which will double the capacity and efficiency of our rail network. Designing infrastructure so people can walk and cycle safely is a cheap and easy way to reduce congestion, and create a happier, healthier city. goldsmith By working hard for every party vote for National in September.

rankin Our policies on law and order for several reasons; I am continually horrified by the increase of violent and other serious crimes in New Zealand and believe that it is time that governments took this seriously, rather than trying to hide this in the statistics. I am serious about getting tough on crime. seymour ACT’s partnership school policy is all about innovation and equality.

The future economy will increasingly reward skills and, where the state’s onesize-fits-all approach has failed too many, we are expanding opportunity from the few to the many. wood Economic policy lies at the heart of any government’s program.

Labour’s economic upgrade is the policy that will make the biggest long-term difference to New Zealand. A strong economy that puts people first is the best way to prosperity and fairness. 4

wood Strongly focusing on ending the political deal-making. We believe that Epsom deserves better. Encouraging people to vote according to their own beliefs, not in accordance with a deal to prop up ACT. Of your policies, which is most important to you personally, and why? genter Definitely transport, because I grew up in Los Angeles and then lived in Europe. The contrast is stark – it’s so much nicer to live in a city where you don’t have to be stuck in a traffic jam to go most places. goldsmith Building a strong and competitive economy, because much of what we value depends on it. haden Accountability of Government. The public sector is being used for self-enrichment of a few. We pay, they profit. We must have access to fair impartial courts. Corruption destroys lives while secrecy conceals the perpetrators. o’dea I was unanimously elected spokesperson for climate change for Mana. It’s an issue I’m deeply concerned about and that I feel will badly impact future generations.

the hobson 17

Top: David Seymour, and below; Michael Wood

the candidates What sets you apart from the other Epsom candidates? genter I’m a young, professional female who uses a beautiful bicycle to get most places in Auckland. goldsmith I’m a sitting member of Parliament, chair of the Finance & Expenditure Select Committee and part of a successful government. haden As an independent, party politics don’t influence me. I can vote on issues according to the wishes of the Epsom constituency. o’dea Nothing, we’re all human beings. rankin I provide voters with a real choice, a choice to vote for a candidate like them who represents their values.

Epsom will get two things by voting for me; a representative that will help deliver a stable center-right government, and a strong woman who will fearlessly and passionately advocate for the important issues based on the will of the people. seymour I started campaigning fulltime in February, I want it more. I have deep roots in this community, having gone to school, coached rugby for five years, volunteered for Lifeline, lived, worked, and socialised here for much of my life.

I am committed to the real end result of politics, public policy. wood I know what the real world is like. I haven’t spent my adult life in a foreign think-tank or parliament. I’ve worked, got married and had kids, bought a house and got a mortgage, and been involved in the community. When people talk to me about the issues they are facing in their lives, I understand where they’re coming from.

If I wasn’t running for Epsom I would be… genter Back in the private sector working as a transportation economics consultant. goldsmith Writing books about successful Kiwi entrepreneurs. haden Writing books and blogs to help and support people in gathering,

collating and assembling information for their defence in court. Highlighting the dirty tactics which are used to pervert justice and showing people how to check on what their lawyer is doing.

I’m a cricket nut (and a cricket purist) and going to that hallowed turf would be a dream come true.

o’dea Happier if I didn’t have to do this.

genter Anything from Little Bird Organics in Ponsonby.

rankin Campaigning hard for the five per cent, however running in Epsom was my first choice.

goldsmith Butterflied leg of lamb cooked above Manuka embers at our bach in the Waitakeres.

seymour Working at a public policy think-tank. I’ve done this for most of the past seven years, it’s a good preparation for politics.

haden Something over the top and outrageous – if it were my last why would I want to count calories or worry about possible health issues?

wood Getting my garden into shape!

The roses need pruning, the vege patch is totally overgrown, and a hundred other jobs around the house and section await my attention if only I had a free weekend!

o’dea Steamed pudding and custard.

It was my favourite dessert when I was a boarder at Dilworth.

You just won an all expenses paid overseas holiday, where are you going and why? genter Back to the States to visit family, and hopefully get in some hiking or hit the slopes while I am there. goldsmith Chile. I’m keen to work my way around the Pacific Rim, and I’ve never been to South America. haden Cruise the Mediterranean — I went on my first ever cruise last year and loved it. Mediterranean because there are so many interesting ports of call and I would also have time to relax. o’dea I’d buy a ticket to Egypt, then bus across the Sinai desert to the Egyptian controlled crossing at Rafah and return to Gaza which I first visited in 2010. I’d then do everything in my power to try and save the children, and stop the shelling and bombing. rankin I would go to Italy. I love everything about it, great food, great people and great climate, great shopping. seymour China, they say that Shanghai today is like New York 100 years ago and it’s awesome to see a country really taking off. wood Watching test cricket at Lords.

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What would your last meal be?

rankin Odd question. Who eats when they know they are about to die? seymour McDonalds. You know exactly what you’re getting, every time. wood I find it hard to go past a good roast dinner — some lovely New Zealand lamb, crispy potatoes and kumara and all the trimmings.

You can swap places with anyone in the world (can’t be a politician) for a week, who? genter A competitive skier, rock climber or sailor. goldsmith Lorde on tour. That would be interesting. haden A senior archivist in parliament. o’dea I would not swap with anyone. I am perfectly happy as myself. rankin No one, I am truly happy with where I am at. seymour Definitely Nigella Lawson, her glass is always 100 per cent full. wood Walking is a great passion and I’ve always wanted to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in France and Spain.

The whole walk takes about a month; I’d happily do a week of it in place of someone else. p

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the boards

Ward Rounds Orākei Local Board chair Desley Simpson and Waitematā Local Board chair Shale Chambers discuss what is coming up in their respective wards desley simpson

shale chambers

One of the important roles of the Waitematā Local Board is to On behalf of the Orākei Local Board, I’d like to thank everyone in advocate on behalf of our communities, and to do this successfully Remuera and the wider Orākei Local Board area, for your support we actively seek public input on all that we do. Most recently we and feedback on our draft Local Board Plan. have been putting a great deal of effort into promoting the Waitematā It is a time of budget restraint and your feedback gives us a vital draft Local Board Plan and the importance of feedback and support. mandate to continue our advocacy to the mayor and governing body The plan reflects the aspirations of our community members for project funding. and sets our strategic direction for the next three Protecting our heritage buildings and years and beyond. acknowledging our history is always a key priority We sought input and encouraged awareness for many residents. Remuera has much to be proud through various means; we advertised in local of in this area. It is one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs publications, we attended public meetings and and contains many character houses, beautiful leafy presented on what the draft plan was proposing, 13 streets and a fascinating history. Remu-wera was the drop-in sessions were held at community venues former name of Mt Hobson and literally translates throughout Waitematā, social media was used, and to “burnt edge of kilt”. there was regional advertising.

At the request of the Remuera Business Thank you to all who submitted to the plan.

Association we previously funded the external We received over 80 official submissions from lighting of the current Remuera Library, originally community groups, businesses and residents. opened in 1926, and are in the final stages of doing Collecting feedback is an important stage in the same for the old Remuera post office (now the Desley Simpson creating a plan that aligns with what are priorities ANZ bank building) on the corner of Remuera for the area. Feedback collected through the submission process Rd and Victoria Ave. We have also placed heritage plaques on the will now go through an analysis process, and hearings for those buildings where the first Remuera Fire Station and our first Remuera that chose to speak on their submission, after which the plan will Library were located (both in the Village Green). They have QR be finalised, and approved by the end of October. codes on them, which via your smartphone QR Some locally relevant highlights include: reader, will take you to a website to learn more • Commencement of the revitalisation of about their history.

Parnell’s Point Resolution Tauarua Reserve, as well Built in 1907, the Remuera Train Station on as coastal walkway wayfinding signage Market Rd is the oldest surviving train station • Improvements to our local areas which in Auckland, and the best preserved. Remuera reinforce their character including implementing Heritage have requested support for an internal a Newmarket Laneways Precinct Plan, which will upgrade of the station to include community space, upgrade the retail hub and displays of rail memorabilia.

• The commencement of the redevelopment of If you’d like to learn more about Remuera’s Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall in the history, go to aucklandcouncil.govt.nz and select city centre as a community hub “Heritage” under the “News, events and culture” • Completion of stage one of the Myers Park tab. In the right-hand column of that page you will upgrade in time for the centenary celebrations early find the “Remuera Heritage Walk” PDF. Or drop Shale Chambers 2015, and a concept plan for how to connect the into the Remuera Library for a copy. park with Aotea Square Our new Orākei Walkway is now open and providing a valuable • Establishment of a multi-board resource recovery centre safer link to the train station for students and commuters. The • Continued restoration of Symonds Street Cemetery cultural history of Hobson Bay has been acknowledged through • Continued ecological restoration of urban bush and Waipapa design, with some of the rails reflecting the nearby former pa site.

Stream Student artwork has also been incorporated to showcase our local I am very pleased to welcome our newly appointed Youth school talent. Join us at the official opening: 3.45pm on Sept 16.

Advisor, Isabella Lenihan-Ikin. Isabella is a student at Western If you or your group would like to help preserve our heritage, Springs College, where she is already honing her skills towards there are a number of ways to help. You can nominate a site for a career in politics by running political literacy workshops for inclusion in the Heritage Schedule, get involved in a heritage students. Isabella brings to the Youth Advisory Panel her passion survey, apply for funding, or get practical help and advice with a for environmental issues, and drive to ensure youth have a say in heritage project. Go to the council website and search “Protecting shaping society. She challenged the Mayor at her inauguration to Auckland’s Heritage” or email heritage@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz invest in cycling; a priority of the Waitematā Local Board. for more information. the hobson 20

the opinion

Campaigning in Epsom I

’m writing this article in my Wellington office on the last sitting day of Parliament, before returning home to Epsom tonight to start the campaign proper.

Like every National candidate in every seat, my task is to maximise the party vote for National, because it is only through delivering the strongest possible party vote that National voters will return National to government.

The Epsom electorate, which includes the suburbs of Parnell, Remuera, Greenlane, Epsom and parts of Mt Eden, is, of course, unique.

The Prime Minister has indicated that we will encourage National party supporters to give their electorate vote to the ACT candidate in Epsom. ACT has a history of working with National, and with the Māori Party and United Future all four parties have maintained stable and successful government since late 2008.

My name will be on the ballot paper as the National candidate for the electorate vote so that Epsom voters have a choice, but my personal focus will be on maximising the party vote.

This does not diminish in any way the passion I have to continue to serve this electorate, as I have these past three years as a National list MP. My family and I are proud to be part of the community and we enjoy living in this great part of Auckland. I’ve never

missed an opportunity to voice the concerns of Epsom residents, local businesses and schools to my colleagues in government; and I’ve made sure they have been heard.

As chairman of parliament’s Finance and Expenditure Select Committee, I’ve advocated strongly for discipline and effectiveness in government spending and for economic policies that encourage enterprise. I hope to make a further contribution in the next parliament.

This election, I encourage everyone to take the chance to have their say by making sure they and their families are enrolled and that they vote.

Under MMP, a party vote in Epsom is as valuable as any in the most marginal seat. In effect, the country is one electorate. If people want John Key to remain Prime Minister they give their party vote to National, and if National receives 50 per cent of all the votes, or close to it, it wins. Simple. Every vote counts.

I’m very proud to be a member of John Key’s National-led government because we are focussed on the issues that matter to Kiwis. New Zealand is moving in the right direction; our goal is to keep it that way. — Paul Goldsmith Paul Goldsmith is the National Party list MP for Epsom

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the district diary - september

monday

1

First Day of Spring

tuesday

wednesday

2

3

thursday

4

Book Group 10 - 11am, Parnell Library Glennie at Olympus Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra perform at the Auckland Town Hall, visit www.apo.co.nz for more information

8

Advance Voting Facility 10am - 4pm, Parnell Community Centre, Jubilee Building, 545 Parnell Rd Until Sept 19

15

Parnell Heritage Inc. Executive Commitee Meeting 8pm, Kinder House

9

10

Meet the Epsom Candidates hosted by Remuera Residents Assoc, 7.30pm, King’s School hall, Remuera Rd

16

Playdate Morning at St Cuthbert’s Junior school Register at stcuthberts.school.nz

17

U3A Monthly Meeting 9.30 - 11.30am Parnell Community Centre

Orākei Walkway Official Opening 3.45pm Phone Orākei Local Board for information: 521 7021

22

23

11

18

Parnell Heritage Inc. AGM Quality Hotel, Gladstone Rd, Parnell. enquiries@ parnellheritage.org.nz Opening of the Centennial Centre for Wellbeing and launch of St Cuthbert’s Centenary Year, St Cuthbert’s College

24

25

Italian Film Festival Opening night at Rialto Cinemas Newmarket, until Oct 12 Children’s Book Club 3.30 - 4.30pm Parnell Library

29

Daylight Saving Begins Clocks go forward one hour

30

Parnell Community Committee Meeting 7.30 - 9.30pm Parnell Community Centre

Got an entry for The District Diary?

Community groups, schools, special events welcome.

Email details to thehobsondiary@gmail.com

the hobson 22

friday

5

saturday

sunday

6

7

Parnell Farmers’ Market 8am - 12 noon every Saturday Jubilee Building car park, 545 Parnell Rd

Father’s Day

La Cigale French Market Every Saturday 8am - 1pm La Cigale, St Georges Bay Rd

La Cigale French Market Every Sunday 9am - 2pm La Cigale. St Georges Bay Rd

12

13

14

19

20

21

Auckland Grammar Art Expo Preview evening 6.30pm Main Hall, Auckland Grammar, Mountain Road, Epsom Until Sept 7

King’s Rocks! The King’s School annual rocking musical night out, tonight and tomorrow. Tickets $85, email theshow2014@kings. school.nz

Summerset NZ Young @ Heart Chorus with the Remuera Intermediate choir and cheer squad, 7.30pm, SkyCity book at iticket.co.nz

Election Day Booths open 9am, Parnell Community Centre, local schools ACG Parnell College Open Day 10.30am - 2.30pm Remuera Bowling Club Start of Summer Season 11am

26

27

28

They’re off again: Term 3 ends

Waipapa Cleanup Parnell Heritage Inc. seeking volunteers, contact enquiries@ parnellheritage.org.nz

Festival Italiano 11am - 4pm Osborne and Kent Streets, Newmarket

Civic Events Presents Sara Bareilles 8pm, Holy Trinity Cathedral

NZ Fashion Museum’s ELLE and the Youthquake Opens at Nathan Gallery Britomart, until Oct 19

Remuera Intermediate’s choir and national-award winning cheerleading team will share the spotlight with performers many times their age at SkyCity this month when they take to the stage with the Summerset NZ Young @ Heart Chorus. The Chorus is a rock and pop-singing choir of over-70s, directed by Chris Bevan. Her sister, Pip Faulknor, is head of the arts at RI and the school’s choral and cheerleading squad director, so the September 13 “Celebration” concert will be a family affair, as well as multi-generational. Book at iticket.co.nz or visit nzyoungatheartchorus.org.nz

the hobson 23

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the suburbanist

I Want Ikea

Visitors to these shores are often stumped by our obsession with IKEA. In their home countries, it can be a synonym for cheap, and the sign of a lack of imagination. So why do we love it so? What’s not to like? It is cheap – and don’t we all love a bargain — but it is certainly not nasty. It has more than just a veneer of Scandinavian design (as some knock-offs do); most of their products are welldesigned and, certainly in New Zealand, have no competition.

Perhaps it is this – the lack of choice – that drives us to crave what we don’t have. In Europe, the UK and the US, their markets are so huge that there are plenty of brands and products operating on this space, so that choice is possible and competition fierce.

Here in New Zealand, our choices are limited while our appetite for good design grows and is not easily sated. And while it would be great if our locally designed products for the home were abundant, they will never be cheap, due to the expense of manufacturing and the limited market. Far easier to leverage off the massive volumes of giants like IKEA than get traction with locally sourced items.

The tyranny of distance bites hard.

In Australia, where IKEA has been established for years, it is hardly surprising that the pervasive influence of this flatpack giant has found its way into the visual arts. In 2012 the University of Technology in Sydney held an exhibition curated by Holly Williams called Swedish for Argument. It used IKEA as a departure point to examine ideas of production, ownership, ubiquity and need. Here in Auckland we’re still looking for IKEA as a point of arrival.

If they build it, we will come. — Tommy Honey

There are 349 Ikea stores across 43 countries.The store above opened in April this year in Samara, Russia the hobson 26

PhotograFFF/Shutterstock.com

I

t has been said that we now live in an age where one in 10 Europeans were conceived in an IKEA bed. And yet such romantic beginnings for New Zealanders remain elusive.

Rumours about an Auckland IKEA store cycle around every few years but nothing seems to come of it. The latest was in February this year where Stuff online reported that “New rumours have surfaced that Swedish furniture chain Ikea is planning to set up shop in New Zealand”. So desperate are we, that the article was headlined “Renewed hope for NZ Ikea”. One would hope that we might have greater hopes.

Talk is that it when it arrives, it will be in Hobsonville – international experience shows that IKEA loves an outer suburb.

There is even a “Bring IKEA to New Zealand” Facebook page with more than 15,000 likes. Because that is how IKEA strategises their next store opening.

One of the reasons mooted for their failure to arrive is that there simply aren’t enough people in Auckland to sustain an IKEA. To which the response can only be Bunnings, Mitre 10 Mega, Placemakers. Do a head count at any of these on any given Sunday, and tell me there aren’t hundreds of thousands of Aucklanders desperate to part with their cash every weekend … Go out to the airport and ask a customs officer how many beds, chests of drawers and entire kitchens they see being jammed through the x-ray machines just after a Sydney flight. Visit myflatpack.co.nz, the first of many IKEA resellers in New Zealand, and they’ll tell you of the demand here.

the arts

A

Prize Opportunity

uckland Art Gallery is currently playing host to the Walters Prize 2014, and it is a must to visit for anyone who is interested in contemporary art. Established in 2002, the biannual Walters Prize is named in honour of the superb New Zealand artist Gordon Walters (1919 – 1995). It is awarded for an outstanding work of contemporary New Zealand art produced and exhibited anywhere in the world during the preceding two year period.

Participants are selected by a jury of curators and artists, and the winner is chosen by a visiting international judge, who this year is Charles Esche, Director of Van Abbemuseum in Eindhoven, Netherlands. The prize is generously underwritten by a number of long-term philanthropists who really believe in supporting excellence in contemporary art by New Zealanders.

Branded as “New Zealand’s toughest art prize” it fulfils that mantra on many levels. In many cases it is tough on the viewer, as it presents leading contemporary art which more often than not, requires us to visit with an open mind and put aside our expectations of what art might be or look like.

It is almost always controversial in its selections, and gets people talking about and debating art. It is frequently tough on the artists, as they are requested to reformulate an exhibition they conceived somewhere, some time ago.

However the prize carries a rich reward — $50,000 — for the winner, who will join the ranks of some of New Zealand 12Yvonne July — Todd. art’s most well-known and successful names such as Peter Robinson, Francis Upritchard and 12 October

The Walters Prize 2014 New Zealand’s toughest art prize

Who will win this year’s Walters Prize? Visit the exhibition to see the four shortlisted artworks – they’re challenging, edgy and socially minded.

12 July – 12 October

Founding benefactors and principal donors Erika and Robin Congreve Dame Jenny Gibbs Major donor Dayle Mace Principal Donor

Founding sponsor

Major Sponsor

Supported by

On now Free entry

This year’s selection includes work from four outstanding young practitioners, who are remarkable for the depth of their ideas, their dedication and creativity. “They are all willing to test the boundaries of self and society and to question just where art begins and ends,” said the jury of selectors in a statement. They continued, “We believe these artists’ practices raise issues that are relevant to our lives, and that they are vitally contributing to and advancing discussions about the nature of art at this time.” The shortlisted artworks are by Simon Denny, who is nominated for the second time and will represent New Zealand at next year’s Venice Biennale, Maddie Leach, Luke Willis Thompson and Kalisolaite ‘Uhila.

Coordinating curator Stephen Cleland says “the Walters Prize has a mandate to provide strong and challenging works of art and we have had a strong response to the varied nature of the four selections.”

One of the most interesting aspects of this year’s Walters Prize is the extensive public visitor programme that Auckland Art Gallery has clearly worked hard to put together. Included are talks by artists, curators and the visiting judge, and these are a great way for us all to join in the debate. Taking part in conversations and forums with artists and curators enables us to learn some more about the artists and remove the mystery from the exhibitions. You can see the visitor programme online via aucklandartgallery.com The Walters Prize culminates in an awards dinner with the announcement of the winner by Charles Esche. It is impossible for us to tell how a judge like Esche will view the four selections, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to hear the views of an international curator. The Walters Prize exhibition continues until 12 October. — Leigh Melville

the hobson 27

the gallery

On Fatherhood

We celebrate local dads, and their offspring, in this special portfolio photographed by Todd Eyre

the hobson 28

“We like having them around — they’re good boys. Quite often people of my generation go,‘Oh it’s great, all the kids have gone now, we’ve got the house to ourselves and it’s awesome’. I’m like, oh, I actually quite like having them around. They’re quite helpful, they cook a bit, they’re funny.” — Nick Tresidder, photographer.

Nick Tresidder, seated, and his four sons at his Nick-T Studio, Parnell.

From left, Freddie, 16, Joe, 21, Matt, 24, Oliver 19.

the hobson 29

the gallery

“How does it work? I agree with everything he says. Really, we never argue about anything, whether it’s personal or business, or anything.” — Michael Lum. “We try not to.” — Jack Lum Jack Lum, with son Michael, outside Jack Lum & Co in Clonbern Rd, Remuera. Michael joined his parents’ business straight from school.

the hobson 30

“When you grow up as one of four boys, and go to a boys’ high school as I did, and sail with a lot of blokes, it’s not until you’re married with a wife and two daughters that you discover there’s a whole other race of human beings out there.

When a dad goes to a ballet school for the first time, you realise where all the girls were while you were growing up!” — Chris Dickson, sailor, businessman.

Chris Dickson, with daughters, Rose, 12, and Grace, 15 this month, on Hobson Bay in the family’s Sealegs craft

the hobson 31

the gallery

“The more kids come along, the more love you’ve got. I would have thought when the first one arrived, the second one would somehow be different, but it’s not. Then you get your third, then you get your fourth ...”

— Paul Goldsmith, list MP for Epsom Paul Goldsmith with, from left, Eliza, 10, Oliver, 13, Olympia (Lollie), 4, and Violet, 7, at the family’s Remuera home.

the hobson 32

the wheeze

Making the Old Fox a Sartorial Tiger This year we must ask ourselves, says Eloise Grace, how much longer you can expect your dad to look thrilled and surprised with socks for Father’s Day. Here, she discusses some ideas to add style and everyday panache to all types of dads Firstly, does your dad resemble National Lampoon movie antihero Clark Griswold?

Is the photo album of his 20s riddled with that dark cloud of the ’80s, the piano tie?

Well, mourn no longer. Burn the clownthemed ties and embrace the Prince of Wales tie sold at Working Style ($149). It’s regal, it’s stylish, it’s like having Prince Charles sitting across from you at the dinner table. Let’s be honest, Charlie might not be our favorite royal from Buck House, but he sure has had some great ties! Your only concern after this should be the possibility that your dad’s girlfriend dresses like Camilla. Working Style, 523 Parnell Rd, Parnell

Now that we have covered his “unique fragrance”, let’s tackle the predictable lack of grooming. Do you ever go into a café in Remuera or Parnell, and sitting next to you is a devilishly handsome male? No matter who he is, or his age, he’s always wearing beautiful clothes that look like they were sewn by angels, his hair is always wavy

Does your father neck protein shakes? Is his wardrobe mostly things with swooshes or three stripes? If he spends his “me time” running, speed walking, or even more embarrassingly, is a Troga devotee (treadmill yoga), give him a break from all the paleo propaganda and deliver him the joy of a fresh cream doughnut ($5) from Little and Friday. Remind him that daddies are better to hug when there’s more to love! Little and Friday, Melrose St, Newmarket.

Along the same theme, it’s difficult to be honest with dad about his outfit choices. Luckily, I have a pretty honest mother, so I didn’t have to do the dirty deed in telling my father that not only were tight white jeans never to be worn before Labour Day, but also never by a 45-year-old male. If you struggle to break it to him about the aqua shirts with the red shorts, the fedoras with the feather detail, or the too small, yellow Mr. Grumpy t-shirt, buy him a shirt from the Wayward collection at Rembrandt ($129). He will love it, and it will add some style to his regular outfit rotation. Rembrandt, 288 Broadway, Newmarket.

Olga_Angelloz/Shutterstock.com

Did you think that your mother is chopping onions, only to discover that her eyes are watering because dad’s taken off his shoes? I bet when your mum was lusting over Grey’s Anatomy’s McSteamy, it wasn’t quite the same steam that your dad produces. Give your mother and the rest of the house a helping hand with a gift of Triumph and Disaster body wash ($45).

Infused with rosewood oil, it will no longer be a fight for freedom when he tries to hug you. Order from triumphanddisaster.com

owns, only with a small hint of man underneath it. If he is going to support Movember (and why not, it’s a fantastic cause), get him some help. Kiehls makes a two-in-one shaving gel and facial cleanser called Facial Fuel ($50) that is sure to be a hit with dads who don’t like more than one step in their beautification process.

Kiehls sold at Smith & Caughey’s, Newmarket.

and combed back, his eyes are as blue as Charlie Sheen’s personal life, and his skin is perfectly smooth. Basically, he’s Jeff Bridges (The Fabulous Baker Boys Jeff.

Not The Dude). And then … there’s your dad. He’s maybe an accountant for Grant Thornton, or he’s a well-respected lawyer or academic, but he may have missed some elementary grooming tips, especially if every November his face looks like one of those fluffy rugs that your grandmother

the hobson 33

Finally, we come to the last kind of dad. These are the dads that send us YouTube videos of babies dancing to Beyoncé, Buzzfeed links as to why children are actually just tiny drunk people, and does the world’s greatest impression of mum when the attractive male gardener accidently saw her naked. These are the dads that it would be a crime to try and change… however a little cultural improvement never hurt anyone. C’est Fromage does a croquemonsieur ($7) which is a much more sophisticated version of the old spaghetti and cheddar toasty that dad loves so much, or god forbid, a cheese roll. (Note: a cheese roll is a Dunedin “delicacy” of cheese, packet onion soup mix and bread. It is mainly used as a tool by Mainland women to considerably reduce the lives of their husbands for as little as $1 per roll). C’est Fromage, 5 McColl St, Newmarket.

the handsome Linden Leaves Rugby set, $37.50. Footy fans will appreciate this handy set of shampoo, shower gel and face moisturiser, all naturally fragranced with essential oils.

Daddy Cool

Melissa Williams-King picks new scents and treats perfect for Father’s Day YSL L’Homme Sport, from $84. An update on 2006’s classic, the new Sport variant adds a burst of freshness with bergamot and verbena but keeps its spicy, sensual heart.

Rocawear Evolution, $132. A rich, woody scent from hip hop mogul Jay Z – for excellent value, snap up the gift set with the same size EDT plus shower gel and shave balm for $135.

Bulgari Aqva Amara, from $82. Inspired by the Mediterranean, its name means ‘bitter water’. Neroli and Sicilian mandarin give this an appealing citrus tang.

Giorgio Armani Code Ice, from $128. A new spin on Armani Code, this version bursts with intense citrus notes, tonka bean and tangy peppermint.

Zegna Uomo Father’s Day Set (EDT & Hair & Body Wash), $80. Suave and oh so Italian – this crisp fragrance blends bergamot, violet leaf, cedar and vetiver to perfection.

Z Karl Lagerfeld, from $85.

The reigning king of fashion has put his style stamp on a brand new creation, an aromatic fougere with green apple and amber. *GIVEAWAY

Mont Blanc Emblem, from $80.

As elegant and sophisticated as the namesake pen, this modern mix features black pepper, bitter grapefruit and spicy cinnamon leaf.

Burberry Brit Rhythm, from $81. Inspired by the energy of live music, this bold fragrance features notes of spicy cardamom, warm cedarwood and even black leather. *GIVEAWAY

Lab Series Maximum Comfort Shaving Gel, $38 and Daily Moisture Defence Lotion SPF 15, $90. Two daily essentials from the global leader in men’s skincare *GIVEAWAY

*GIVEAWAY We are taking care of Dad this issue: Like our issue post on The Hobson Facebook page and be in to win either the Brit Rhythm EDT, the Karl Lagerfeld EDT or the Lab Series skincare set with Maximum Comfort Shave Gel and Daily Moisture Defense Lotion SPF15. the hobson 34

Calvin Klein Eternity Summer limited-edition, $69.

If Dad’s an Eternity fan, this lighter twist on the classic will be perfect to ring in spring.

All products available from Life Pharmacy Remuera (Wylies) and at 277; Smith & Caughey’s and Farmers, Newmarket. Linden Leaves available at Linden Leaves, 317 Parnell Rd.

the wellbeing

Not Such a Bad Thing A

Goodluz/Shutterstock.com

re you concerned about your cholesterol? You should be, for it’s an essential molecule without which there would be no life. If you’re a male, cholesterol is the stuff that when you get it right will keep you potent. If you’re a female, cholesterol keeps you juicy, with that graceful glow.

We’ve been bombarded over the years with information about cholesterol and how it is a bad thing, and that less is better. In truth, cholesterol is a major structural molecule, a framework on which other critical substances are made. Without it we wouldn’t have vitamin D (to help modulate your immune system) or steroid hormones (including sex hormones), which are cholesterol based.

Life as we know it cannot go on without cholesterol, for it is a basic raw material made by your liver, brain, and almost every cell in your body. It makes up a major part of the membranes surrounding all your cells and the structures within them.

Cholesterol is a problem if it’s oxidised (damaged). Damaged or oxidised LDL (the so-called ‘bad’ cholesterol) sticks to the lining of the arteries and starts the process of inflammation. This is the true cause of heart disease. And this inflammation is initiated by damage from free radicals (oxidative stress) that inflict enormous damage upon your cells and DNA that’s akin to a ‘rusting from within,’ as the inflammation directly oxidizes your plasma.

The concept of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol is outdated. What’s important to know is what’s called: ‘type A or B’ of LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol. What you want to know is whether you have a pattern LDL-A, which is a buoyant, fluffy molecule that does no harm, or a pattern LDL-B, which is a hard, dense molecule that promotes atherosclerosis (thickening of the artery wall). A pattern of high LDL-A is the most beneficial, for it’s the LDL receptors that clear the plasma of small dense LDL and oxidized LDL that suffocates your blood.

The Heart Foundation (heartfoundation.org.nz) has published an absolute risk calculator that uses a ratio of total cholesterol to HDL, a much better predictor of coronary artery disease risk than is the total cholesterol alone. Another important ratio to consider is your triglycerides and HDL (the so-called ‘good’ cholesterol).

So, what can you do to prevent heart disease? Well it seems the big five are don’t smoke, drink a little red wine, engage in moderate-vigorous exercise for 30 minutes a day, maintain a healthy bodyweight, and eat a low-sugar diet with plenty of omega-3 fats.

Yes, that’s right, nothing about lowering cholesterol.

A serious note to men reading this: endothelial dysfunction has the same acronym (ED) as another condition that you may be concerned about: erectile dysfunction. The endothelium is the inner-most layer where the damage to your arteries starts, and is a key event in the development of heart disease. It seems that a healthy, functioning endothelium is essential for … more than just the heart!

So with heart disease, my read is that it’s primarily caused by cellular inflammation that begins in the gastrointestinal tract (gut), and is heavily influenced by your hormonal response. Pregnenolone, the mother of all hormones, is usually the first to go, a sign that your cells are not making enough of this critical building block from LDL cholesterol. — Lee Parore

Lee Parore is a naturopath and fitness trainer: for medical advice, always consult your GP

the hobson suggests

A Smart Guy’s Top 5 Go straight to the top when it comes to your appearance with a discreet visit to Prescription Skin Care, a team of doctors and nurses who use only the latest effective, safe, and proven remedies.

1. Stop Excessive Sweating Large, wet, patches under your arms are never a good look, especially when presenting in the boardroom.

Botox is an effective way to treat this issue.Treatment is quick and fuss-free.

2. Ditch the Pot Belly Stubborn abdominal fat makes you look older and less fit. This is not a womens’ only treatment: Coolsculpting is a proven, popular and non-invasive way to reduce unwanted bulges of fat.

3. Reduce Facial Redness and Sun Damage The outdoor lifestyle of the Kiwi male doesn’t do skin favours. Prescription Skin Care safely and efectively removes signs of sun damage, veins, redness and brown spots with effective laser treatment. No recovery time is required.

4. Permanently Remove Unwanted Body Hair Excess back, shoulder and chest hair are no match for the Cutera laser, the most effective of its kind when it comes to eradicating body hair. Our registered nurses are highly-trained in this treatment.

5. Neutralise an Angry Frown or Forehead Creases Frown lines can make you look grumpy, and older.

Botox for men will keep your masculine-looking brow, but lose the heavy lines for a more vital, youthful look.

If you are interested in taking action on any of of our “Top 5” men’s treatments, book an appointment today, and consider it handled.

Led by Plastic Surgeon Stephen Gilbert FRCS, FRACS (plastic). 243 Remuera Road, Remuera.

Phone 529 5784

the investment

The Importance of Volatility I

was unpacking some boxes a few weeks ago and came across an old text book from my university days. I think the book was for my third year econometrics paper (econometrics being the exciting combination of mathematical economics and statistics).

Flicking through the pages reminded me of how much I have forgotten since 1989, but I can be forgiven as that is 25 years ago!

One term I saw which I do however remember, is “autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity”. Don’t you love it! But as riveting a topic as that might be, I won’t detail it here. It did though, prompt me to write about the important topic of volatility.

Everyone knows that the prices of most types of financial assets, eg stocks, bonds, funds etc, move up and down over time (preferably up) and at times these movements can be quite large.

This price movement — called volatility — is a very important feature of financial markets, and has important implications for your savings and investments.

Further, volatility is not stable, it too changes over time. During some periods, prices of financial assets go up and down quickly, and perhaps by a large amount, while during other times they barely move at all.

In finance, volatility is a measure for variation in the price of a financial instrument over time, and I usually think of it as the “riskiness” of return. Note, volatility does not measure the direction of price changes. Rather, it is a measure of the dispersion of these price changes over time.

Two distinct securities with different volatilities may have the same expected return, but the security with higher volatility will have larger swings in values over a given period of time.

For example, stock A may have an expected return of 7 per cent, with low annual volatility of 5 per cent. This would indicate expected returns ranging from approximately -3 per cent to 17 per cent most of the time. Stock B with the same expected return of

7 per cent but with higher annual volatility of 20 per cent, would indicate returns from approximately -33 per cent to 47 per cent most of the time.

I’d prefer to own stock A. Investors should care about volatility for lots of reasons, including those I list here.

The wider the swings in an investment’s price — ie the greater its volatility — the harder it is to not worry about that investment.

For example, I’d worry if my portfolio, or a significant chunk of it, declined significantly in value in a particular period.Will it recover? How long will it take to recover, etc?

Volatility of a security should be carefully considered in determining its size in an investment portfolio. We can handle bigger swings in returns on smaller parts of our portfolio. As an example: if I were to need, say, $250,000 in the middle of next year for significant purchase (to fund a house purchase perhaps), I’d be in a bit of a spot if my portfolio declined significantly in the meantime, thereby putting my purchase in jeopardy.

When certain cashflows from selling a security are needed at a specific future date, higher volatility means a greater chance of a shortfall. For these reasons in particular, lower volatility securities are usually preferred, all things being equal.

But higher volatility is not necessarily always a negative.

Higher price volatility can provide opportunities to buy securities cheaply (you’ll often hear financial commentators saying a stock is currently “oversold”).

Now in case you were wondering about that lovely term “autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity” … It is used with reference to securities prices which, over time, exhibit periods of heightened price swings or volatility followed by periods of relative calm … and vice versa. — Warren Couillault

Arrange a visit today Phone 09 520 8814

the hobson 36

BR-j8362

514 Remuera Road

the journey

Why I Went To ...Omaha, Nebraska Remuera New World owner-operator Adrian Barkla shares why he chose to travel to Omaha, Nebraska, for the “Genius of Warren Buffett”, a three-day course about the work of the legendary investor/philanthropist. Run by the University of Nebraska business school, it was challenging, and not without a few surprises to the health-conscious Barkla.

Adrian Barkla spoke to Kirsty Cameron

How do you get from Auckland to Nebraska? You fly from here to LA, on to Denver and then to Omaha, which is only an hour and a half — it’s in the very centre of the Midwest. I think five of the top Fortune 500 companies are based in Omaha, Nebraska.

It’s amazing. Buffett’s there to get rid of the noise of the horse track. That gives him the ability to think — he grew up there, it’s his town. On the course we had his daughter, Susie Buffett, talking to us. She told us what he does in 24 hours, and it’s quite funny. Everyone knows he plays bridge, but he can play bridge generally until two in the morning. And he gets up at six in the morning. And even what he has for breakfast, which was Oreos. He has the worst diet in the world!

Why did you choose to spend your time off at a “Genius of Warren Buffett” conference? Because the more I get to know about him, the more I like how he does business. So I wanted to go and learn how he did it and his principles, which are basically all based on integrity, and openness, and being candid.

Did you have to supply any kind of credentials to be able to do the course? You apply, and you had to describe Warren Buffett. I took 10 days to do it. I put, “He was a simple man with integrity.” I was pretty proud about that, because they said that was right, he is a simple man, with integrity.

Was it an expensive trip? No. The earlier you book, the cheaper it is. Then there’s flights and your hotel (see the next page for further information).

Oreos? The biscuits? Warren Buffett does not know what a vegetable looks like. He has Oreos for breakfast.

Sometimes he may have popcorn as well, and potato chips. And if he’s really hungry he might have a ham sandwich with mayonnaise on it first, and then he’ll have potato chips. That’s what he has for breakfast.

How does the course run? It’s hosted by the University of Nebraska.

On the Sunday night the dean talked to us, then [conference director] Robert Miles, who wrote the book, The Warren Buffett CEO: Secrets from the Berkshire Hathaway Managers, and they put a meal on. You meet Robert, and then you meet who else is doing the course, and everyone has to stand up and give a little intro about themselves. There were about 30 in the class.

Did you have to do anything before you turned up? We had to read The Warren Buffett CEO; The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham, and the Berkshire Hathaway Letters to Shareholders

by Warren Buffett — that’s unbelievable reading. The last time I did some pre-reading was for the Foodstuffs owner/manager 4

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the journey

What do you learn from the required reading? With Buffett CEO it was all about the businesses he buys, and how he treats the business owners. He’ll buy a business without even seeing it. All he wants is the last three years’ financials, so that he can be rational. So he doesn’t necessarily want to talk to the CEO because the CEO — if it’s for sale — he’s going to try to convince Warren to buy it, so he’s going to tell him anything he wants to know, so Buffett’s not interested. And he buys businesses that he understands, and that’s that. And like anyone else, he likes to buy at a discount. Then he talks about a thing called a moat — what is the point of difference?

What protects this business from others? So, the moat is like a moat around a castle. Coke, for example: its moat is its brand name, and its saturation throughout the world.

Tell me about the course, and the people on it. You hear great speakers, it’s amazing. And being surrounded by people that are Buffett devotees. Everyone who goes there are people who want to do business honestly. Profit’s definitely not a dirty word, but we’re not going to dump on people. We’re not going to rip them off, but we’re going to make money. And we’re going to do it ethically, which is different to a hell of a lot of people.

I understand there’s a whole lot of other events going on at the same time, as the course is scheduled to accommodate international “lifelong learners” attending the Value Investor Conference and Berkshire Hathaway AGM the following week, which draws a crowd of around 40,000. I believe you got to go to a pretty famous dinner that’s part of “Buffett Week”. I’d met up with some people from the southern states who said I had to go to Gorat’s Steak House for dinner with them, and sit at their table. They said “we’ve got a really good table.” So I went, and we sat down, and we could see the back door. There’s a security guard there — Warren Buffett comes through the back door, then there’s Bill Gates, [Berkshire Hathaway Corp vice-chair] Charlie Munger, and all the board. I had the whole of Omaha, Nebraska! I’m sitting at the second-best table in the world — the old dumbo grocer from New Zealand.

It was so funny.

n

course at the Icehouse about six years ago. So that’s the second time since school!

Open 7 days from 7.30am, dinner Wednesday - Saturday Catering available for your parties, events, corporate functions.

Talk to us now about Christmas.

Phone: 520 2900 info@remueralocal.co.nz

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What else did you do in Omaha before you left? You don’t get much time, and bloody hell, your brain is fried after the course! But I did go to [the Buffett-owned] Nebraska Furniture Mart, which is the largest single-site furniture market in America. On the Monday of “Buffett Week”, it does more turnover than the next six biggest competitors in America does in a month.

What did you take away from the experience? Everyone goes there to learn how to be a good investor. I don’t go as an investor — I go as a business person thinking if these are the geniuses that are the best investors in the world, and this at what they’re looking at before they buy a business, I have to make sure I’ve got all that, that I tick all those boxes. And I can honestly say I don’t.

Registrations are now open for the 2015 Genius of Warren Buffett EMBA, April 27 - 29 2015. Early enrolment course fee (to Sept 30) is US$2,995. For information on the content and accommodation options, visit http://cba2.unomaha.edu/ ExecMgmt/BuffettGenius or www.valueinvestorconference.com

SPRING SUMMER 2015

WOMENS WEAR AND ACCESSORIES AVA I L A B L E O N L I N E N O W

H A R M A N G RU B I S A .CO M

the hobson suggests: the dressing room

The Dressing Room presents Your Bespoke Wedding at The Department Store Your wedding is a day like no other. It deserves a uniquely tailored approach and everything should be carefully curated to reflect what you, the bride, has always dreamed of. The Dressing Room at The Department Store, Takapuna, works with the beauty experts at Lucy & the Powder Room, the hair stylists at Stephen Marr, and Bo & Luca gowns to offer you a customised wedding experience that covers just about everything a bride needs.

B

ridal beauty starts with beautiful skin, nourished from inside and out. As part of our bridal service at The Dressing Room, we arrange for a Lucy & the Powder Room consultation for a full skin analysis, treatments and a personalised makeup plan with Lucy’s top makeup artists.

PRE-WEDDING MUST-HAVES Skin — Osmosis Polish, $90. A mild exfoliating enzyme mask, this polish gives the skin a smooth, healthy appearance and a gentle, firming effect with each application.

Body — Sans [ceuticals] Activator 7 Oil, $60. A potent and reparative oil containing active vitamin A to stimulate cell repair, increase collagen production and boost skin thickness and elasticity. Vitamin A in precise levels is critical in normalising any skin condition and decreasing enlarged pores. Rich baobab phytolipids, Omega-3, 6 and 9, and vitamin E are highly recommended in treating sun-damaged areas of the body, including scarring and stretchmarks.

Nutritional — Bestow Beauty Oil, $40. This is an edible cosmetic that feeds your skin from the inside out. You’ll radiate with a smooth and velvety glow thanks to high levels of Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) in a blend of organic, unrefined, extra virgin seed oils cold-pressed from flax and golden flax.

Hair — Sans [ceuticals] pH & Shine Corrector, $65. The ultimate health boost for achieving silky smooth and detangled hair, pH & Shine Corrector restores hair to its virgin state by correcting pH activity through a unique combination of B vitamins and fruit enzymes. It works to brighten and enhance your hair, creating incredible natural shine by flattening the cuticle to reflect light.

Beauty — BECCA, $54 - $90. We’ll help you match your skin tone to our BECCA makeup range, which is focused on revealing your natural beauty. These lightweight products begin with a flawless base and go on to highlight your favourite features, and also offer dramatic amplification should it suit your wedding look.

Call the Dressing Room’s bridal co-ordinator Hannah EvansScott on (09) 488 0585 to make an appointment to discuss your needs, or email weddings@thepowderroom.co.nz. Powder Room Parties, price on application, call (09) 488 0585.

GIVEAWAY: Sign up to our newsletter at dressingroomnz.co.nz and go into the draw to win a Specialist Manicure for you and a friend, valued at $95!

Nourishing beauty inside and out: recommended treatments for brides.

Above, a Bo & Luca gown, exclusively available at The Dressing Room.

the wedding

Come Together

Amber Whitecliffe and Elroy Pinto’s Parnell wedding celebrated love, culture, history, art — and basketball photography: anna allport

T

he wedding of Amber Whitecliffe and Elroy Pinto brought together everything that was special to the couple.

The church they chose, the historic Catholic Church of St John the Baptist on Parnell Road, had special meaning for fashion designer Amber — her mother, Michéle, and late father, Greg, started their career journey in Parnell as founders of the Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design. And the service was rich with references to Elroy’s Indian and Amber’s Māori heritage. Elroy’s mother, Lorraine, wore a traditional sari, and Amber made her mother’s dress from lace sent from India for the occasion. Amber’s koro, Viv Hata, blessed the ceremony with a karakia, and one of her brothers, artist Laken Whitecliffe, presented Elroy with pounamu he had carved from family stone. At the reception, the couples’ passion for basketball was a motif: guests were seated at tables named after NBA players, and each received a personalised basketball singlet. “Everyone at the wedding really enjoyed the mix of cultures and the way we chose to represent them,” says Amber, who wore a traditional red sari at festivities the day after the wedding. “Creating the event together was a lot of fun,” says Elroy, a kindergarten teacher. “It was so cool seeing our vision come together on the day.”

Just married — the happy couple on Parnell Road after their wedding ceremony. Above, Father Glenn Lowe, Elroy’s uncle, conducts the service. St John the Baptist was built in 1861 and is Auckland’s oldest surviving Catholic church.

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the wedding

Left to right, from top: Amber on the terrace of the Whitecliffe family home in Epsom.

A paintbrush was tucked in her bouquet to represent her late artist father, Greg; Amber with brothers Laken and Hayden, mother Michéle and Rima the dog; and with her koro, Viv Hata, and godfather, Bob Skinner, who gave her away; Amber and from left, Gemma Medforth, Jacinda Calkin, Jessica Da Silva, Johanna Bilkey, and flowergirl Shanel Digges; the Pinto family, with parents Roy and Lorraine, right, outside the church; a basketball hoop at the reception was a fun reference to the couple’s NBA passion — created by Elroy’s uncle Harry, the ball descended to reveal port glasses.

The cake featured edible flowers made by Elroy’s mother, Lorraine.

the hobson 42

the wedding party Bride & Groom: Amber Whitecliffe and Elroy Pinto Bridesmaids: Jacinda Calkin (maid of honour), Johanna Bilkey, Jessica Da Silva, Gemma Medforth Groomsmen: Jaideep Franklin (best man), Hilary Carvalho, Kevin Machado, Alastair Malcolm, Mark Radford Flowergirl & Pageboy: Shanel Digges, Zac Kelso Masters of Ceremonies: Hayden and Laken Whitecliffe

the fine details Bride’s dress and fur shrug: Xian Bridal Earrings: Natalie Chan Headpiece: Natalie Chan, Amber Whitecliffe Shoes: Mi Piaci Bridesmaids’ and flowergirl dresses and jackets: Designed and made by Amber Whitecliffe Hair: Bride: Amy Thomsen, Total Care Remuera, Bridesmaids: Patty Pinto Makeup: Deanne Pinto Groom and Groomsmen: Jackets from Politix, Newmarket, trousers from Barkers Decorations & Theme: Flowers: Amber and Michéle Whitecliffe, Sally Caudwell. Gold, cream and white were chosen as the palette for the event. At the reception, guests were given chalkboards for messages and encouraged to Instagram to #amberandelroy Photographer: Anna Allport Photography Videographers: Scott Kelso & Bevan Jones Reception: Held at Kumeu Valley Estate. Indian dishes were incorporated into the meal, and a lolly station featured. Cake by Amy’s Kitchen with decoration by Lorraine Pinto

The wedding party stopped for photos near Kumeu Valley Estate; The mens’ outfits were selected by Elroy. From left, Kevin Machado, Alistair Malcolm, Elroy, Jaideep Franklin, Mark Radford, Hilary Cavalho; dancing bridesmaids — as the night cooled, the bridesmaids wore tailored gold jackets, designed and made by Amber. “We had such a magical day,” says Amber. the hobson 43

the cinema

Movies to Entertain Dads

Before I go to Sleep — director Rowan Joffe, rated M. If your wife wants a movie night and suggests a girly flick, this is the film you counter with. Based on the novel by S.J. Watson and starring Colin Firth and Nicole Kidman, pictured above right, this is a film men can watch without becoming bored, and women will want to see because Mr Darcy’s in it. The plot centres on Christine Lucas (Kidman) who has permanent anterograde amnesia, unable to remember the events of her life. A truth is revealed that makes her question everything she thinks she knows, and everyone she believes she loves.

Wish I Was Here — dir. Zach Braff, not rated. From Zach Braff, the director of cult hit Garden State, and star of TV series Scrubs, comes this fan-funded family drama. When struggling actor/father/husband Aidan (Braff) questions his choices in life, he launches a quasi-quest to find his true identity, beginning with home-schooling his equally offbeat kids (pictured above). Featuring a well-established cast including Kate Hudson and Mandy Patinkin, this is very much the little movie that could, and definitely does.

The Skeleton Twins — dir. Craig Johnson, not rated.

The tried and true pairing of comedians Kristin Wiig and Bill Hader

reunite for this little gem as estranged siblings Maggie and Milo. After years of indifference, the twins, both struggling with depression and self-loathing, are drawn together and made to address the issues that brought about the end of their relationship. As the duo is driven to reconnect, they realise that all their problems may disappear if they can just learn to get along. Heart warming, funny and relatable, it premiered to critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival this year, earning the award for Best Screenplay for writers Craig Johnson (True Adolescents) and Mark Heyman (Black Swan).

Sin City: A Dame to Kill For — dir. Frank Miller & Robert Rodriguez, R16. If explosive violence, salty language and the barely-clothed Eva Green (Bond girl Vesper) and Jessica Alba (needs no explanation) interest you, this sequel to Sin City is bang for buck. Featuring Sin’s Alba, Rosario Dawson, Bruce Willis and Jamie King, there’s also fresh blood to the franchise in the form of Green, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, James Brolin and Mickey Rourke.

Special note to dads: probably not a date night movie, and its R16 rating rules out the kids, so unless your older teens are up for it, make it a lads’ night out. Happy Father’s Day! — Caitlin McKenna All films listed will screen at Rialto Newmarket this month

A series for lovers of FILMS FOR

fine

food and film

17 September

German Film FeStival

10 September

Join us at Rialto Cinemas each month to enjoy a glass of wine, light food from a local cafe or restaurant, a preview movie screening and a gift bag!

Film Club members*

$33 bOOK Online *Sign up for free in cinema!

the bookmark

Pick & Mix Choices for Father’s Day VAGABOND — Gerald Seymour (Hachette). It was a dirty job in a dirty war.

Returning to the territory of some of his greatest thrillers, Seymour is one of the modern masters of the craft.

ACT OF WAR — Brad Thor (Simon & Schuster). After a CIA agent mysteriously dies overseas his top asset surfaces with a terrifying claim, but no one knows if she can be trusted. Thor’s thrillers are as plausible as they are frightening.

WAR AND GOLD — A Five-HundredYear History of Empires, Adventures and Debt — Kwasi Kwarteng (Bloomsbury).

A captivating study exposing a pattern of war-waging and financial debt stretching from the French revolution through to the modern-day emergence of China.

SOUTH SEA VAGABONDS — J.W. Wray (Harper Collins) In this classic true adventure at sea, Johnny’s gripping, and often hilarious, account sailing the South Pacific has inspired readers since its first publication 75 years ago.

SHADOWS OF THE ROAD — Life at the heart of the Peloton, from US Postal to Team Sky — Michael Barry (Faber & Faber). Weeks after announcing his retirement, this veteran cyclist testified against former teammate Lance Armstrong.

Early in his career, as a young, idealistic cyclist, he was compromised by a sport in crisis.

THE FORBIDDEN GAME — Dan Washburn (Allen & Unwin). In China, just because something is banned, doesn’t mean it can’t boom. Award-winning journalist Washburn follows the lives of three men intimately involved in China’s bizarre golf scene.

SMOKED — Jeremy Schmid (New Holland) We enjoy the sweet/salty qualities of smoked meat and fish, but the range of foods that can be smoked is limitless, as chef Schmid shows in this delicious collection. A must have for any man serious about food.

— Gail Woodward

the sound

I

David Bowie is the Coolest Person on the Planet

’m sorry Bryan Ferry. You’ve run a good race and you are immensely cool, but David Bowie is the epitome of supreme coolness on Earth.

I have found in my time as a music reviewer and broadcaster that I have become a little dispassionate about musicians and their creations. I can still get pretty into it, such as with the recent albums from Lorde and Arctic Monkeys. But it has become a rare occasion when I get truly excited.

Except for David Bowie.

Whenever I hear of a release

by David Bowie I go all slobbery teen fanboy on it.

So it was when I discovered that Mr Bowie is to release a four-CD box set called Sound and Vision later this month. It has all his hits up until 1995. But it’s not a normal greatest hits compilation because many of the tracks are demos, live recordings, rarities, remixes and B-sides. Seventy songs from four decades and 21 albums.

There is a lot to digest when something like this comes out, and I’m enough of a Bowie nut to happily digest it. As I have been doing all week long. I have 96 Bowie songs on my iPod and I’ve been slamming through them on shuffle.

It’s been a while since my last Bowie listening marathon, and so I was a little taken aback to be so blown away by it all. My God the man’s a genius.

As I write Aladdin Sane is playing on the computer. Aladdin Sane was my passport to Planet Bowie. Back in ’79 I hadn’t been bitten by the Bowie bug. “Ashes to Ashes” was riding high and I knew the classics like “Life on Mars” and “Space Oddity”, but they were just hits on the radio.

My good mate Andrew Hawthorn lived on Seaview Rd, and downstairs he had a room that had three things in it. An 18-by-6 snooker table, a record player and a record collection. So every day after school we rocked out and played ball. One afternoon he put on Aladdin Sane and music was never the same for me.

All the jagged edges mixed up with do-wop and avantgarde piano and guitar solos. It also helped that my Grammar English teacher at the time, John Hayes, decided we should study the lyrics of “Time” for modern poetry. I was hooked.

So it was straight on to Ziggy Stardust, Pin Ups, Hunky Dory, Young Americans and Diamond Dogs. I realised I had missed a

trick not going to see Bowie at the Springs in 1978, so I bought Stage, the live album of the tour. That album introduced me to the Berlin-inspired albums Heroes and Low and of course Station to Station, featuring Bowie’s last great character, The Thin White Duke.

When Bowie came to Auckland to film Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence I swore I could feel his energy in town. An urbane David did a charming interview with Radio with Pictures revealing a new sound was on its way, simple and stripped down; and within a year “Let’s Dance” dropped and went massive.

By 1983, there was no way I was going to miss the “Serious Moonlight” tour at the Springs.

Still New Zealand’s biggest single concert. Bowie had reinvented himself again as mass market showman. And what a showman.

These days whenever I get on my Bowie jag I’m straight to YouTube. I’ve spent hours this week watching him perform in all his remarkable incarnations. I’ve heard the songs morph along the way, but no matter how he decides to perform them they remain timeless and undated. And the man is just so amazingly beautiful for a snaggle-toothed Limey with a wonky eye. Plus he has impeccable manners. He always thanks his band so politely.

Now the Sound and Vision box set has been released before, and the latest one is an update and that’s got me thinking. It was first released in 1989, and Bowie decided to tour to retire his greatest hits once and for all. I was off on my OE and I was in LA. So on May 26, 1990, I found myself in the back row of the third tier of Dodger Stadium with all of LA glittering on the horizon as David Bowie launched into the single greatest concert I have ever seen.

Then the box set was re-released in 2003 just before Bowie’s fateful final tour.

So I find myself now thinking — in the afterglow of his surprise return with his excellent The Next Day album — could this be a sign? A sign that the man who fell to earth might be considering one last return to the stage? Let it be so. That would completely blow my foo foo valve. Warn my bank manager. And as I write that, “Heroes” has just come up on the iPod. That’d be Bowie’s doing. Freaky bastard. — Andrew Dickens

Photo courtesy of Warner Music the hobson 46

the plot

Spring into Action

S

eptember sees the start of a busy new season in the garden and things can be fairly pacey from here on. In fact you can feel a little dizzy, as a rush of potential spring and summer plantings all come at once! Seeds of fastgrowing salads like lettuce ‘Tom Thumb’, mesclun mix, mizuna and the super-fast rocket can be sown anytime now for a harvest in as little as four weeks.

Kids can be lured outdoors with a packet of mixed radish seeds – sowing them into the shape of initials can be fun. Heavy cropping summer favourites like climbing beans, aubergines, capsicums, tomatoes, pumpkins and zucchini can all be sown now. Seeds are usually started off in trays and punnets that are given warmth and indoor protection, before being planted out after Labour Day. If you are feeling lucky and you live in a really sheltered part of town, then you might get away with sowing some directly outside.

Once the impetus of seasonal change sees us all planting and sowing in earnest, it’s worth remembering how good it is to be able to enjoy a continued harvest for as long as possible. This means not planting an entire crop at once as this can result in a glut of produce, and then just as quickly you have a scarcity in the garden.

It can help if you first plan your beds and containers (try a quick scribble on a piece of paper). Decide what crops will go where and how much space you’ll give them – mark this out so you have a visual record. Then sow or plant a row or a half row every few weeks, until you have filled the allocated spaces over a period of time. This will produce a staggered harvest. From now on if you sow or plant fast growers such as beetroot, coriander, carrots, dwarf beans, lettuce, mizuna, parsley and peas in this way, you should be enjoying fresh and tasty vegetables and herbs from now through to autumn and winter.

To beat any temperamental bouts of bad weather and slugs with re-awakened appetites, sow your first run of fresh herbs like basil, coriander and parsley into containers. Scatter seeds into a layer of fine seed raising mix – about half a finger deep – over some enriched planting compost in your containers. Keep soil moist and thin seedlings as they start to grow.

In a few weeks, as the weather settles, you can sow further batches out in the garden that will be ready to take over when your potted crops have been exhausted. — Paul Thompson.

Photo John Harris

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the pause: fatherhood

Dad as His Own Man

Sandy Burgham on the faces of modern fatherhood

M

y daughter recently posted on Facebook a meme showing a toad-like creature with a grumpy face, and a headline that read: “How you feel when your mum comes home and all the fun and relaxation comes to an end”.

One of the unexpected outcomes of maturing while previously-adorable children like my daughter morph into typical teenagers, is that my husband could now be my favourite person in the household (excluding my lovely pet spoodle of course).

This wasn’t always the case. When a household is juggling two careers, children going in opposite directions, pets, mortgages and various other commitments, it is easy for the working mother to start managing the household as one might a company division. I often thought, and probably expressed, in those earlier years, that everything would be fine if everyone just shut up and did what I said. Rest assured that they didn’t.

Lists were issued to an unimpressed husband who pretty much missed most of his KPIs (“key performance indicators” for those who haven’t suffered the tedium of a corporate performance review). Several other primary bread-winning mothers I know have also been accused of treating their husband like staff — issuing helpful tips on how tasks should be executed, as well as the benefits of an improved attitude. This easily spilled over into what fatherhood “needed” to look like.

Often what drives women’s behaviour to change men is not just practicalities, and some unfounded belief that we know what makes them happy, but a desire to fit into social norms.

We are inundated with media images that portray either “dunce dad” (central figure on animated sitcoms), “failed dad” (usually action movie heroes), “traditional dad” (who Len Brown was trying to be) and now “perfect dad” (middle class yuppie in bicultural family as seen in advertising campaigns nationwide).

Note that what is deemed acceptable behaviour changes over time — my own dad used to nip into the pub while we waited in the car, relatively common behaviour in the 1960s.

The social norm of fatherhood is now trapped somewhere between being the main breadwinner, sharing household duties including Jamie Oliver skills in the kitchen, some basic psychological understanding of a woman’s psyche, inborn DIY ability, willingness to be a coach for a kids sports team, and all of it delivered with masculine stoicism blended with a unique feminine sensitivity. On a Sunday morning, our local park is inundated with 30-something Bugaboo-pushing dads displaying “perfect dad” traits, presumably while mum sleeps in or goes to yoga.

It is also becoming increasingly common to see a stay at home dad at the school gate. I applaud these guys for willingly stepping back from their working lives to prioritise fatherhood. Often they are making a conscious decision to play a supporting role in a spouse’s career.

This is still a big call for a man to rise above the social pressure to be in fulltime paid employment.

Despite the “perfect dad” framework on one hand, men are often trapped in success narratives which give work and pay centrality.

Many men 50-plus, like my husband (they don’t make ‘em like they used to, thank god), could not imagine willingly stepping back from their careers to prioritise being the primary caregiver.

I call this “early man” social programming, and to counter this, I often rave on in a coach-like fashion that it is being “your own man” that really counts. Whatever that looks like.

Recently our daughter and I drove past my husband as he was taking a leisurely (versus lycra-clad) bike ride along the waterfront in the afternoon sun. Old habits die hard. Just as I felt irritated by his ineffective time-use — surely he could have been trimming the hedge — she remarked: “Dad is the happiest person I know. He is one of the few people who doesn’t feel the need to fit in. He’s a great role model”.

Jeepers, I thought, lucky he didn’t listen to my attempts to reprogramme his upbringing and change his personality. I better throw him a few extra brownie points this Father’s Day.

the hobson 48

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