EastLife August 2016 by Times Media

eastlife.co.nz

OLYMPICS

Main man in Rio

August 2016

Wildlife photographer

ROARING SUCCESS

FASHION SPRINGS FORWARD

Loobieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story

GUTSY MUM

overcomes adversity

Cooking UP THE CLASSICS

Win! GREAT PRIZES

eastlife august 2016.indd 1

29/07/2016 1:18:12 p.m.

MREINZ

total focus

Issue Thirty Eight

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Welcome to Issue No 38 of Eastlife

August really it cannot be surely. This means we have just 4 more editions of Eastlife until Christmas. Which means if you are thinking of selling your home and want to showcase it in this fabulous far reaching magazine then call us now to discuss further and book your space. What better way to get your home out to the passive market, those who would move if the right home came along but are not actively looking in the traditional real estate publications or web sites. We really do have all the bases covered. Take care, keep warm til next month.

Final Call - Auction on site Saturday 6th August @ 1PM

Smart and Sassy in the Village

15B Howe Street, Howick

This property offers buyers an incredible turn-key solution, newly renovated and ready for you to move in straight away. In an elevated position in Howe Street this home provides 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms and a generous open plan kitchen, dining, living area. The deck opens off this space, maximising the exposure to the northern sun. Offering excellent parking with double off-street parking to the rear of home with single off street in the front with single internal access garage. This is a home that will serve you well, whether as a family home, professional couple, downsizers or investment. Practical real estate with so much upside. Unbeatable location, fantastic living, walking distance to Howick Village and good schooling. www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38112 Leigh Roy 021 646 565

Leigh QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“Speech is Silver, Silence is Golden” Thomas Carlyle 1831

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

To have your property featured in Eastlife for next month call one of our team today.

80 Hattaway Avenue, Bucklands Beach The Endless Summer

Summer all year around? We cant guarantee that, but with this home you can have a lifestyle like it’s an endless summer. The clean weatherboards give the home an ‘American Eastern Seaboard’ feel that fits within its surroundings. A renovated kitchen created for the home chef in mind. The master bedroom/ensuite is positioned to capture the winter sun, but remain cool during summer. There’s space for all with three other bedrooms plus another separate bathroom. The beach, shops, cafe’s and bus stop just a stroll away plus a short drive to the ferry completes the picture. This truly could be The Endless Summer! Auction on site Saturday 3rd September (USP) www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38113

Our team!

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Bath

Car

Call Lawrence 021 660 085

The “Real Estate Specialists”

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

David Prescott 021 821 131

2 | eastlife | august 2016

Bed

111 Picton Street, Howick

Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Paul Charlesworth 027 280 9551

Karen Dawson 538 0151

www.tfproperty.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

00792-v7

eastlife august 2016.indd 2

29/07/2016 1:18:10 p.m.

on the cover

1PM

wick

dy for ides 3 e deck cellent e front r as a with so ge and

38112

Loobie’s Story dips its toe into spring waters with the early release of its 2016 spring/summer collection. La Dolce Vita draws on a love of life and Italian aesthetic with a colour palette that focuses on whites and brights washed out a little in the Mediterranean sun. Featuring a range of digital prints, the hero for the season is ‘Positano’, a pattern reminiscent of the iconic cliff-side village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast and seen here in a fresh, feminine dress worn under a luxe denim jacket – perfect before sunny days really make themselves known. See page 37.

ach

e that, it’s an ve the at fits

hef in ned to during other

a stroll es the er!

8113

rence 0 085

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Bev Drake 09 271 8092, bev@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rashna Tata 09 271 8091, rashna@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz Photography: Wayne Martin Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine

Dawson 0151

.nz

DISCLAIMER: Articles published in EastLife do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times Newspapers Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Newspapers Ltd.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Wet month warms heart! It’s raining, it’s pouring and though bed and a good book sounds good, I’m loving putting together these last pages of EastLife’s August edition.

check it out! I also took our guests to Baduzzi Italian Restaurant in the city – now that was a fabulous experience (more next month).

And, despite the rain, it’s not that chilly. Really, with the exception of a couple of short, sharp, cold snaps, it’s been a relatively mild, if wet, winter. Thankfully, I’ve managed to escape the usual coughs and colds – touch wood!

When my guests departed, I managed to finish reading, A Boy of China, by Richard Loseby – absolutely fascinating so I asked for a copy to give away on our WIN page this month – one for the history buffs, and travellers for sure.

With no prospect of another holiday until summer, I’ve had to look elsewhere for cheer and I have, indeed, been cheered many times of late.

This past month I also addressed the Howick Women’s Dinner Club – what a super audience. A miserable night yet some 100 members turned out and I can see why. The meal was so enjoyable and the company too. It was a pleasure to see many faces I knew and to be greeted so warmly. I really did appreciate the friendly welcome and the compliments regarding EastLife.

First, I had visitors from Sydney which prompted a round of eating out. In particular, Family Thai Restaurant in Pakuranga delighted my guests who gave the thumbs up to pork spare ribs, deep fried snapper fillets topped with tamarind sauce and the sizzling seafood plate. I was so pleased our local Thai measured up with these Oz foodies. While there I noted the restaurant had been refurbished, it’s contemporary decor quite a change from the previous look – pop in and

What a treat. We rather expected a cuppa with a couple of sandwiches and a cake or two. Instead, we arrived to an elegant 1920’s scene and sat down to the prettiest floral table setting with a mountain of savoury and sweet treats. I wasn’t a bit hungry by time we went to a birthday dinner at 6pm! The event was so successful Dolphin is planning another and a cocktail evening, too. I’ll be there for sure! As you can see, there hasn’t been a dull moment yet our little team has turned out another EastLife packed with reading, a big focus on food, a hefty raft of prizes, beauty tips, fashion, travel, home decor and more. So, you know what to do, grab a cuppa and enjoy!

A few days later it was my turn, with two other members of the Phoenix Society, to show appreciation of support received many times over from the Dolphin Theatre in Onehunga. With the theatre needing a new roof, the committee planned a day of high teas so we three booked in for the 11am event.

Helen Perry Editor

This month... 6

interview

Former locals stage ‘Strange’ comedies

8-9 community calendar 10-14 Out & about EastLife photographers focus on local events

16-17 Q&A

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, see page 72

On board with Bruce!

18-19 interview

33-44 health, beauty and fashion

David Lloyd – close up with wildlife

20 WIN

45-55 food

• New chef in town • Recipe cheer • Taste

Prizes up for grabs

22-32 lifestyle

• Beautiful Brisbane • Walking Waikiki • Books for kiddies • Puzzle time

• First spring fashions • Beauty counter

56-65 Home • My favourite thing • Fit for as princess

• Out of Europe • Pee on a lemon tree? • Regular columnists

66-69 business

• Right ‘Hon’ Key

70-71 sport

• Corey Main – going swimmingly

motoring

• Mercedes-Benz E-Class eastlife | august 2016 |

00792-v7

eastlife august 2016.indd 3

29/07/2016 1:26:41 p.m.

Civic RS Turbo shown

The all new Civic. Stand out. The Civic built Hondaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s global reputation and redefined the standard when first launched in 1972. Totally re-engineered, the 10th generation Civic is once again set to challenge convention. With a bold coupe-like silhouette, two engine sizes including a new responsive, fuel efficient turbo, luxury interior, class leading space, advanced safety and driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology featuring Apple CarPlayTM and Android Auto,TM the new Civic is a standout, for all the right reasons.

Civic 1.8S from $29,900 Civic Turbo from $35,500

+ORC

www.honda.co.nz

12242

APROPOS 32063

+ORC

4 | eastlife | august 2016

32063 Civic Front Eastlife DPS ad Aug.indd 1 eastlife august 2016.indd 4

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:18:10 p.m.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 5

eastlife | august 2016 |

22/07/16 6:46 AM 29/07/2016 1:18:17 p.m.

Z 2

Nothing to fault at Red Shed

You don’t have to be crazy to work here, but it helps, could be the mantra at popular Drury café, The Red Shed Palazzo. At least, that’s the case when it stages the hilarious Faulty Towers dinner theatre experience. ANGELA KEMP called by to talk to its creator Maree Strange, aka Sybil Fawlty.

• •

Kiwis love the zany comedy about a dysfunctional fictional hotel, Fawlty Towers, so much they voted the British television programme their favourite of all-time.

• • •

• •

Although it first screened more than 40 years ago and only 12 episodes were made, it’s rarely been off the telly since and has become essential viewing in 61 countries world-wide. Our appetite for John Cleese’s manic Basil Fawlty has spawned a number of local spin-offs, one of the most popular being regularly performed south of the city.

Above: Maree Strange aka Sybil Fawlty. Left: Red Shed Palazzo owners, Kristina and Paul Smith. Photos Wayne Martin

Papakura resident, Maree Strange started the Faulty Towers Dinner Show seven years ago and has since appeared in, or overseen, hundreds of performances.

To satisfy audience demand Maree has created a new mystery show, Murder at Hotel Balle Balle. It’s about three eccentric English people who adore everything Bollywood.

She has a pool of 10 actors who appear as Basil, Sybil or hapless Spanish waiter, Manuel and they have been entertaining diners at The Red Shed Palazzo since the awardwinning eatery (Rural Café of the Year) opened nearly five years ago

Customers are encouraged to dress up Bollywood or 1920s style and participate in the Cluedo-esque theatre show.

On the other hand, Maree (47) is a lifetime south Aucklander, her love of theatre stemming from her first primary school role as a fly in Charlotte’s Web. She was later in the first intake of Rosehill College’s drama department and after leaving school, joined Papakura Theatre Group. “I worked for Bluebird Foods as DYC manager of the factory and lab but was acting and singing in my spare time.”

6 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 6

She left to have two children and eight years ago was asked by Drury School to put on a Faulty Towers show to raise funds for a new playground. The show was a great success and Maree and Martin found themselves inundated with requests to do more. “That was in 2009 and we have never looked back,” says Maree. “We’ve now done about 40 shows at The Red Shed and they are always popular. “We have a maximum of 100 guests who enjoy a three-course buffet dinner, a two and a half hour show followed by music and dancing. The show is suitable for all ages and

our audiences range from children to the over 80s. We don’t use a script but rely on improvisation and interaction to create a different show every night. There’s a lot of audience participation.” Maree says no-one is forced to take part but those who want to be in the performance generally make themselves known early in the evening. “It’s important for people to feel comfortable and to be able to laugh at themselves as well as others.” The public’s taste for the Faulty Towers show is still growing and Maree says the troupe gives performances up and down the country. “It’s successful because if our customers are happy we stay employed, it’s as simple as that. It’s our job to make sure they have a good time.”

• •

• • •

• •

As owners of the Red Shed Palazzo, Paul and his wife Kristina agree that people love the shows. “Some people love to dress up, some are really keen to participate and others just come along to watch and that’s respected,” Kristina says.

Th as No ze

“Maree and I work really well together and people love the ambience of the place. They also love a good night out and this is what the shows deliver. So, hey, EastLifers come and enjoy a fun night in the nearby country!”

The next production of Faulty Towers is at The Red Shed on August 12. It will be followed on August 13 by Hotel Balle Balle with return shows scheduled for November and December. If you would like to know dates for further performances see the website www.faultytowersshow.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:18:48 p.m.

BMD0129_ACB_1S2AT_EM

And ,of course, many EastLife readers will know that Red Shed chef (and owner) Paul Smith, first put down Palazzo roots at Palmers Pakuranga in 2002 before the business moved to Drury. The Palazzo menu, especially their speciality cakes, was famous with patrons and still is, albeit south of our district.

This included working at a Parnell restaurant in one of the original spin off Fawlty Towers shows and where she worked with her husband, Martin Strange.

A 7-

1 Re cos offe Ser

ZERO DEPOSIT, 2.99% INTEREST.

Auckland City BMW

Newmarket

TWO STYLISH LITTLE NUMBERS. FROM

$47,200

• NAVIGATION SYSTEM • REAL TIME TRAFFIC INFORMATION • REVERSING CAMERA • PARKING SENSORS • SPORTS LEATHER STEERING WHEEL • LED DAYTIME LIGHTS • AND MUCH MORE

FROM

$50,500

• NAVIGATION SYSTEM • REAL TIME TRAFFIC INFORMATION • REVERSING CAMERA • PARKING ASSISTANT • COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM • LED DAYTIME LIGHTS • AND MUCH MORE

The new BMW 1 Series and the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer have both built reputations as leaders in their own right, by bringing a new level of style and driving pleasure to the class. Now getting behind the wheel of an icon is easier than ever with an unprecedented offer of zero deposit and 2.99% interest per annum3. Offer ends 31/08/2016.

0 DEPOSIT 2.99%

YEARLY INTEREST

BMD0129_ACB_1S2AT_EM

CONTACT AUCKLAND CITY BMW FOR A TEST DRIVE TODAY.

Auckland City BMW 7-15 Great South Road, Newmarket. (09) 524 3300. www.aucklandcitybmw.com 1 Recommended Retail Price based BMW 118i includes GST, excludes on-road costs. 2Recommended Retail Price based on BMW 218i includes GST, excludes on-road costs.3 Finance offer is a fixed interest rate of 2.99% per annum with no deposit and available for a loan agreement with a maximum contract term of 36 months. The offer is available on the BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Model Range excluding the BMW 225xe. An establishment fee of $250 applies. Finance is subject www.eastlife.co.nz eastlifeto | BMW augustFinancial 2016 | 7 Services lending criteria. Terms and Conditions apply. Offer expires on 31/08/2016. Models shown with optional extras.

eastlife august 2016.indd 7

00101-v5

29/07/2016 1:19:22 p.m.

community calendar August 2016 ➤ MUSIC The Rat Pack August 4, from 8pm, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Drive, Auckland City Quite Frank-ly, this concert is sure to delight music fans especially those who will never be ‘board’ of the chairman and his crew to boot. Presenting the music of such swinging sixties superstars as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Junior, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and singers will turn the Aotea Centre into a little piece of Vegas for one night only. See apo.co.nz for more information. Midge Marsden and Band August 5, from 8pm, Hotel Clevedon, 26 Kawakawa Bay Road, Clevedon Once upon a time, it seemed as though wherever there was music, you’d find Midge Marsden. For more than 40 years, Midge has made beautiful music, bringing the blues to generations of Kiwis. To catch this Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, former New Zealand Entertainer of the Year and all-round true blues Kiwi in concert, first contact the hotel (via thehotelclevedon.co.nz) for more information. Midnight Hour – Commitments Tribute Show August 13, from 7.30pm, Howick RSA, 25 Wellington Street, Howick Why wait until the midnight hour to be Feelin’ Alright when this show starts 7.30pm sharp? Presenting music which inspired a movie which inspired a renewed celebration of soulful sounds, this tribute band will Take (us) to the River, Destination Anywhere, or even the Dark End Of The Street, with its set

eastlife august 2016.indd 8

of classic tunes. Contact the RSA (via howickrsa.co.nz) for details, or see or toplineentertainment.co.nz. Pakuranga Choral Society presents Songs for All Seasons August 21, from 2pm, All Saints Church, 17 Selwyn Road, Howick All seasons are set to be celebrated at All Saints as spring begins to bloom. Conducted by Stuart Weightman, this concert is expected to prove a treat for lovers of classical music. More information at pakchoral.org.nz; tickets available at the door.

Howick Library – Family History August 17, from 11am, Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Rd, Howick Historian and author, Lisa Truttman, is set to inform audiences at Howick Library about the history of midwifery, from the late 19th Century until the Second World War, in her illuminating presentation, Filling the Cradles. For more information, contact the library on 09 534 5301.

➤ EXPOS & FESTIVALS

Janice Skinner & Wai Leng Ong exhibition August 5-27 (Fridays-Sundays), 10am-3pm, Green Gables Cottage Art Gallery, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook Street, Howick Works by artists Janice Skinner & Wai Leng Ong are on display in August at Green Gables. Proceeds from sales will help support the South Auckland Totara Hospice. Contact Howick Art Group (via howickartgroup.org.nz).

The Baby Show 2016 August 19-21, 10am-5pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Greenlane No need to grizzle, parents, help is on hand! Showcasing an extensive selection of products and services for pregnancy, maternity, and beyond, The Baby Show has plenty to assist parents – both those full of hope and those long resigned to servitude! With plenty of expert advice from leading parenting and early childhood experts, help is on hand to guide parents through those turbulent early years. See babyshow.co.nz.

Share, Cheat, Unite August 13 – October 23, Te Tuhi Centre For The Arts, 13 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga While there’s no I in team, there is a me... well, in a manner of speaking. Designed to explore the mechanics of how individuals interact with groups, this exhibition questions whether such actions as cheating and lying could be more about creativity than deception. Are we truly free in our thinking or bound by collective convention? Think about it and we’re sure you’ll come up with the right answer! Contact the gallery (via tetuhi.org.nz) for details.

Winter Wine, Shellfish and Seafood Festival August 20, 11am-11pm, Auckland Fish Market, 22 Jellicoe St, Freemans Bay, Auckland City Good shucks could prove lucky for at least one Kiwi competitor during this event! Featuring the inaugural New Zealand Oyster Opening Championship, this festival of all things fishy celebrates some of the finest fare gathered in net, on line or vine. To enter the oyster opening championship (entries close August 10) call 021 477 763, or visit facebook. com/winterwineshellfishandseafoodfestival for more information.

➤ ART & EDUCATION

Baby Show 2016, August 19-21, ASB Showgrounds

➤ THEATRE Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense August 5-20, Dolphin Theatre, 12 Spring Street, Onehunga Join dashing socialite Bertram ‘Bertie’ Wooster and his unflappable gentleman’s gentleman, Jeeves, on a comedic caper inspired by the droll writings of the acclaimed PG Wodehouse. In this performance, a weekend takes a turn for the worse for Wooster. Can he (with help from the wily Jeeves) restore affections between his newt-fancying friend, Gussie Fink-Nottle, and his host’s drippy daughter, Madeline, or will Bertie have to forsake his cherished bachelorhood and marry the ghastly girl himself? See dolphintheatre.org for details. Bad Girls August 6-20, Harlequin Musical Theatre, 563 Pakuranga Road, Howick When Rachel Hicks hits the stony lonesome, the prospect of contending with bad girls of many types – not just other inmates – is terrifying. However, hard time can result in many a twist and turn as this gritty musical, based on the popular British TV show of the same name, reveals. See harlequintheatre.co.nz for show times.

29/07/2016 1:19:28 p.m.

Venus in Fur August 18 – September 18, Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Drive, Auckland With an ‘on the cuffs’ performance, this striking show expects to thrill and entertain. Derived from an infamous novella by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, this titillating tale brings an underworld (which inspired a Velvet Underground) to the surface of sensual politics. See atc.co.nz/ whats-on for details. Little Red Riding Hood & Other Stories August 27, 1.30pm and 3pm, Howick Children’s & Youth Theatre, 29 Granger Road, Howick What’s the time, Mr Wolf? It’s time you gave up on harassing little girls and their grandmothers for a start! Even if young thespians fail to break a leg in the process, audiences can be sure all will be good with the Hood when one particular fairytale favourite comes to life on stage this month. See hcyt.org.nz for details.

➤ FUNDRAISERS

➤ COMEDY

Antique & Collectors Fair August 13-14, from 10am, Clevedon Community Centre, 3 PapakuraClevedon Road, Clevedon Bag a bargain in Clevedon! With proceeds destined to support the good work of Auckland Hospice, this sale is expected to offer everything from knick-knacks and curios to antique furniture, tools, china, linen, crystal, art, glass, silver, clocks, books, jewellery and more.

Trevor Noah September 3, from 8pm, Civic Theatre, corner Queen Street & Wellesley Street, Auckland City Above the sound of ideologies clashing and the ‘Trump-eting’ of American politicians, The Daily Show has long held its own. Despite tackling some of the world’s most serious issues, this US television show has delivered clever, topical humour since the mid 1990s. After recently taking over from Jon Stewart, South African-born comedian, Trevor Noah, will take to the stage in Auckland for one night only. See trevornoah.com or the ‘what’s on’ page at aucklandlive.co.nz.

Tearfund Poverty Cycle August 27, from Ardmore Airport, 511 Harvard Lane, Ardmore As competitors line up to do a good turn (or thousands!) for charity, locals are invited to cheer them along. Designed to help fight human trafficking, this cycle relay winds its way along a 24km circuit from Ardmore Airport to Clevedon, Brookby and back. To enter, make a donation, or sponsor a rider, see povertycycle.org.nz.

Botany Night Market Every Wednesday night, 5.30-11pm, beneath Hoyts, Botany Town Centre Alfriston Country Market First Saturday of the month except January, 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston Trevor Noah, September 3, Civic Theatre.

➤ MARKETS Howick Village Market Every Saturday, 8am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick Classy Crafts Indoor Market First and third Saturday of the month until end of October and then every Saturday until Christmas, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick Pine Harbour Fresh Market First Saturday of the month (winter timetable), 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands Clevedon Village Farmers’ Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon

➤ DANCE RNZB presents Giselle August 31 – September 3, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Dr, Auckland City Giselle’s just a gal who wants to say yes! However, after being courted and captivated by a mysterious stranger, she soon becomes broken

hearted when discovering he is betrothed to another. If romance is indeed a dance, then who better to present this tale than the Royal New Zealand Ballet? See rnzb.org. nz/shows for details including show times. And, see page ?? to WIN a double pass for the Sept 1 show.

Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 PapakuraClevedon Rd, Clevedon Pakuranga Night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm-12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza

www.eastlife.co.nz eastlife august 2016.indd 9

29/07/2016 1:19:33 p.m.

feet first with foot sense podiatry 1

It was best foot forward for Heidi Barton when her new Botany Town Centre studio, Foot Sense Podiatry officially opened in Town Centre Drive last month. EastLife photographer WAYNE MARTIN was in step with guests as they celebrated the successful launch.

1. Wayne Barton, Corry Barton 2. Nick Crowley, Deb Crowley 3. Dianne Stacevicius, Nadia Stacevicius 4. Yvonne Lindsay, Morgan Lindsay 5. Varinder Kaur, Ariu Viliamu, Sam Pritchard, Kylie Whyte, Ahmad Nazari 6. Stefan Barton, Heidi Barton 7. Rebecca Barton, Matt Barton 8. Marc Southgate 9. Belinda Biggs, Preeti Kaur, Gurpreet Kaur

T R

( 7

10 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 10

9 www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:20:32 p.m.

31 Augustâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 3 September ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre BOOK NOW

rnzb.org.nz

The quintessential Romantic ballet

CHOREOGRAPHY BY Johan Kobborg and Ethan Stiefel (after Marius Petipa) MUSIC BY Adolphe Adam ACCOMPANIED BY Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra CONDUCTED BY Marc Taddei www.eastlife.co.nz

SUPPORTED BY

NATIONAL TOURING eastlife | PARTNER

FEATURING august 2016 | 11

13399

eastlife august 2016.indd 11

29/07/2016 1:20:31 p.m.

WINE TIME THAI STYLE Surprised delight greeted the recent launch of three Thai wines from PB Valley Wines, based in Thailand’s Khao Valley. Developed to complement and enhance the flavours of Asian fusion cuisine, the three crafted varietals – chenin blanc, rose and shiraz cabernet sauvignon – were beautifully matched to dishes from well known chef Grant Allen. EastLife photographer JANET KEELING was there to capture guests who had a ‘nose’ for the occasion. The wines, distributed in New Zealand by A-LLURE are currently available at The Grasshopper Thai Restaurant in Auckland and from an online private buyers site. 1. Sophie Maitland, Portia Campbell 2. Jacqui Ansin, Helene Ravlich 3. Danielle Lagos, Sebastian van der Zwan 4. Nicolan Keenan, Greg Sinclair 5. Jane Lyons, Rachel Ramsay 6. Olivia Atkinson, Natasha van der Laan,

Marilynn McLachlan 7. Alice Neville, Lea Worth 8. Anong Klinyoo, J.W. Saw 9. Vic Williams, Julia Lomas 10. Stephen Heard, Jeremy Toth 11. Kuda Chinyanganya

STUDY TO BE A FASHION DESIGNER • Create your own clothing range

• Free trials - experience our difference! • Student loans and allowances available • Option to start your own small home based business • NZQA approved

www.sewtec.ac.nz 13745

12 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 12

0508 327 872 12107-v5

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:20:54 p.m.

12384-v5

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 13

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:21:02 p.m.

MercedesBenz E-Class launch Admiration for European engineering was clear at last month’s launch of the revolutionary new MercedesBenz E-Class at Coutts, Newmarket. Photographer GARRY BRANDON was there to capture reaction to the car’s ground-breaking technology and superior refinements. 1. David DeLacey & Georgie Knight 2. Livia & Tom Kristic 3. Gail & Ross Stewart 4. Bryan & Pat Heron 5. Charles Lockie & Bernard Vincent 6. Pat Carrigan, Pauline Brown & Doug Hitchcock 7. Asha Lal 8. Angus McDougall 9. Trevor Walmsley, Lesley Pope & Stuart Rowe 10. Wijey Kumar & Cliff Kingdon 11. Lina Lumon & Namfon Jessup

T M

+ Car ple o e 2P

0 5 1 $

er r sav Supe rn fare retu

Take your car to Waiheke Island with our Super Saver Ferry Fares

T i s c a

01161-v3

Book now at SEALINK.CO.NZ or call 0800 SEALINK (0800 732 546) * Available on selected sailings. See website for terms & conditions.

14 | eastlife | august 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 14

29/07/2016 1:20:59 p.m.

The all new E-Class. Masterpiece of intelligence. The remarkable all new Mercedes-Benz E-Class takes automotive technology into a new realm of intelligence. Over 100 million lines of code drive technical advancement like never before. Advanced safety features including PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side, PRE-SAFE® Sound and Evasive Steering Assist constantly monitor the world around you reacting to and anticipating potential hazards in the blink of an eye. While a widescreen cockpit provides astounding levels of technical innovation and luxury. As a masterpiece of intelligence, the all new E-Class stands alone. Starting from $99,900*. www.mbcouttsnewmarket.co.nz/e-class *Excludes on-road costs. Vehicle shown includes optional extras.

Buen Retiro Park

Coutts Newmarket | Auckland’s home of Mercedes-Benz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | august 2016 |

2 Great South Road, Newmarket, Auckland 1050, Ph: 0800 267 253, www.mbcouttsnewmarket.co.nz 13357

eastlife august 2016.indd 15

29/07/2016 1:21:00 p.m.

Q&A

with former olympic windsurfer

Will you actually be coaching at the Rio Olympics? I have been coaching in Rio for a few months every year since 2014. Sailors need to spend a lot of time at a venue to know as much as possible about winds and currents which are very complex in Rio. I’ve been working with the Dutch sailing team, along with Aaron McIntosh [also from Bucklands Beach] since 2014. Last year, the Hong Kong windsurf team, which I worked with previously, asked for help too, so I’ve started working with them again, and also the Japanese. It’s been a busy time! However, I won’t be at the Olympic Games as I have other projects planned. As a coach, how does being part of others’ successes (including Aaron McIntosh, Greek windsurfer Nikolaos Kaklamanakis, and your sister Barbara) compare with winning your own laurels? Do you still long to compete? I have competed in yachting events since I retired from racing boards. Winning medals (whether for

16 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 16

Bruce Kendall

myself or by those I’ve coached) has brought more a feeling of relief than satisfaction. In windsurfing, the chance of things going wrong is enormous – possibly more so than in many other Olympic sports. As a coach, I’m competing through someone else. This means less stress, which I am happy about. I don’t miss the stress of competition. Success in this way is a very different sensation. There can be more or less financial reward and generally less recognition. I now prefer to help others win and earn, and I’m very happy living in the ‘now’. 2012 Olympian and former world number one, JP Tobin, qualified for Rio but says he pulled out due to lack of support from Yachting New Zealand. What does this mean for the sport? I’m very disappointed that, for the first time ever, there is no windsurfer representing NZ at the Olympics. Jean Paul was a medal contender in 2012 and could have been this year. It is dissatisfying that Yachting New Zealand was not able to fund JP and Natalia [Kosinska] to the level

required for them to compete. JP has been in the top-performing group in the world since 1997, where he finished fourth at the World Champs. He has received, at times, more funding than I ever did in a single year but never won a world champs or medal. Yachting New Zealand is burdened with more talent than they can afford to fund – a nice problem to have! What can be done to ensure our windsurfers receive the support they need to develop, and how important is financial support in windsurfing and sailing in general? Since 2001, New Zealand Government sports funding agencies have had a policy of not funding development, only high performance. However, most nations that have good development policies are on top right now with well-trained, young talent. I understand Yachting NZ has since found extra funding, and I hope to help develop windsurf racing here in the near future. The levels of coaching and technology are higher than ever before. You can buy knowledge and

faster equipment. Investment from some nations is massive. However, often sailors with less support do better than others with a lot. From 2009, Hong Kong sailors received more financial support than the Dutch sailor who won the gold medal in 2012, for example. New Zealanders have claimed seven Olympic windsurfing medals. Are you confident there is a way through the present doldrums, or is the sport dead in the water? Opportunities are there for young windsurfers and if they, and their parents, can recognise this, I’m confident there could be Kiwis at the 2020 Olympics and possibly on the podium in 2024. Growing up, did you think you’d compete at the highest level of sport? Do you still windsurf locally? What other hobbies do you enjoy? I joked about it with a sailing friend when I was 12, but never expected I would have the skills or the finance to do so. It wasn’t until 1983, when I finished 7th at a pre-Olympic regatta, www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:21:03 p.m.

Photo supplied

Gold and bronze medallist, Bruce Kendall, has come a long way since he first climbed the Olympic Games podium in 1984. However, the Bucklands Beach local and experienced windsurfing and sailing coach remains very much at the centre of his sport. In the lead-up to Rio, EastLife asked Bruce about life on and off the water.

that I realised I had a chance to reach the podium. I still live in Bucklands Beach, but seldom windsurf as I’m too busy maintaining our home, garden and helping my amazing wife, Stephanie, bring up our kids, Katie and Alex. I also have other interests – sailing our family Trimaran (moored at Bucklands Beach) beekeeping, kite surfing, mountain biking and surfing. How beneficial was sibling rivalry with Barbara in preparing for competition? Barbara is three years younger, and I started racing boats and boards well before her. She has only beaten me once on the water. Neither of us wanted to be beaten by anyone, ever! I helped her win her gold medal by organising her 1992 Olympic campaign, and Aaron [McIntosh], Grant Beck and I helped her with speed and tactics. I stopped coaching her after her silver medal in 1996. Equipment failure contributed to you missing out on medals at the ’92 Olympics. How big a disappointment was that and did Barbara’s gold www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 17

balance the ledger? I may always be angry about that. The equipment was supplied by the organising committee. The fin broke through faulty manufacture and I was unable to finish. Placing fourth overall due to someone else’s mistake was crushing. It was so devastating that I struggled to enjoy Barbara’s win as much as I would have liked and was angry that my situation detracted from her being able to enjoy her moment to the full. How did it feel being inducted into the NZ Sports Hall of Fame in 2013? Was that your sporting highlight? It was an honour to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. It felt odd for it to happen many years after winning the medals, but there are guidelines. There have been so many sporting highlights it’s hard to say which was best! I guess being the first Kiwi to win an Olympic class world championship, where I won every race except one (I finished second) is up there. This hasn’t been done before or since. A bonus was that Aaron McIntosh was second overall

and that we managed it on a very low budget – our budget for the whole year was the same as the British sailor spent just for that championship! Overall, I’ve always felt I was only as good as my last performance and usually looked forwards rather than back. What’s the highlight of your life? Doing a 10 day Vipassana silent meditation retreat with Stephanie was difficult and painful, although very rewarding. Our wedding (surrounded by so many amazing friends and family members), each of our kids’ home births, their first steps, going cruising on our boat. Much as I did when competing, I try to live in and enjoy the moment; each moment of each day is a highlight. If you could be Minister for Sport and Recreation for one day, what would you do first and why? Without all the information I’d need, I don’t know what I could do! But I would hope I could help build a healthier, happier population with good potential for high level achievement.

If you could invite any three Olympians (living or dead) to dinner, who and why? Tough choice; I can’t decide! I would invite friends I’ve trained with and competed against so we could laugh about past times, catch up on the present and discuss plans. Barbara, Aaron and I (in particular) share lots of experiences, including sleeping in (and on) cars, wild conditions and friends in common. Friends from other sports, such as Ian Ferguson, Paul McDonald and [boxer] Trevor Shailer, would be on my list too. I’d also like to spend time with some people who have left us. Chris Timms [Olympic gold and silver winning sailor] was always very funny and interesting; I’d invite Muhammad Ali too and he’d be as fun in person as he was on screen. Having visited Marathon and Olympia in Greece, I’ve often wondered what it would have been like to spend time with the first medallists from 776 B.C.E, but I’m guessing conversation with them might be difficult! Sign language needed, perhaps? eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:21:07 p.m.

Pride of Howick,

WILD AT ART

Focusing on the future has never been too difficult for David Lloyd. However, his career took a new direction after travels to Africa. Since then, this talented Howick-born photographer has been on safari to stay, as he explained to JON RAWLINSON during a recent sojourn home. Wherever wild things are, there you’ll find award-winning wildlife photographer, David Lloyd. Despite directions to EastLife’s offices being a little tricky to follow, David surprises me by arriving right at our front desk. I ask him the stupidest question imaginable: “So you found us okay?” He responds with a quizzical look, and who can blame him? Considering this shutterbug has routinely negotiated deepest darkest Africa, locating a magazine office is bound to be a doddle! Born and raised in Howick, David embarked on a career in graphic design which led him to London in the late 1980s, where he still resides. Despite regularly leading photographers of all levels of ability on safari, David concedes that he’s no Bear Grylls. “The first time I saw a lion in the flesh it was quite something, especially with it looking right at me. I can’t quite describe it, but the word, ‘respect’, comes to mind, and there was some a connection between us which I appreciated. The experience definitely offered a ‘wow’ factor, but I wasn’t [scared] because I guess I’m a bit logical in my thinking,” the former Howick College student says.

pragmatically. “At the same time it can be dangerous living in London! It’s just about using common sense.”

“I’ve never really been in a dangerous situation. If you put yourself in danger by interfering with wildlife, then you shouldn’t be there. Lions don’t usually charge people, showing their fangs in real life, so why would I want to take that picture?”

It was earlier trips to Africa, as an enthusiastic amateur, that inspired David to turn his lifelong hobby into a career in 2012. “I was given my first camera when I was six. My father [John] was always active with the Howick Camera Club – he’s now a life member. I learnt the basics from a young age, and I was also interested in wildlife. I’ve also had a lifelong interest in art and design. So, in the end, all those things have come together,” he says.

While wildlife might not frighten David, he says all reasonable precautions must be taken during his travels to avoid any sort of danger that might arise. Yet, just last year he was briefly waylaid in Tanzania by armed ‘police’ demanding money.

“I knew I could take photos and felt I had the opportunity to make some sort of living from it, although it wasn’t going to be easy. I thought if it didn’t work out then at least I had tried. Life’s too short and I didn’t want to die wondering!”

He also avoided a terrorist attack in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, which left at least 67 people dead – David had been at the Westgate shopping mall just days prior. “I try to steer clear of dangerous countries. It comes down to knowing where’s likely to be safe and avoiding where it’s not,” he says,

In just a few years as a fulltime professional, David’s work has netted numerous awards and met with critical acclaim. One shot in particular, A Flick of the Tail – which depicts a giraffe, or its rear end, at least! – brought him a great deal of exposure. Making David a finalist in

18 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 18

the Natural History Museum’s 2011 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, the work also graced the cover of the competition’s book. However, he is ambivalent as to which one of his photos he favours most. “I’ll give an answer, but ask me tomorrow and it’ll probably be a different one! However, there are a few which I particularly like, such as Amboseli Crossing. It’s of an elephant calf surrounded by adult elephants. “Another is the lion portrait on the cover of my book, [As Long as there are Animals], and The Enchanted Woodland [featuring a leopard in a tree] is very satisfying too.” Asked which animals he prefers to capture with a camera, David exclaims: “All of them! But I think everyone has a connection with big cats because of their domestic cousins. That’s what they are; they’re just big ones of those! They behave in much the same ways and have a sentience about them which is quite special. “Having said that, I could watch elephants all day without taking a

DAVID LLOYD single picture; they’re one of the most intelligent creatures on legs, aside from us, and you could say they’re actually less stupid than we are!” David’s photos have received praise for the way they appear to effortlessly convey the personalities of his subjects. And yet, he says effort is most definitely required! “Hopefully, what the pictures show is that each animal is an individual in its own right, as much so as you and I, and they should be understood as such. I don’t really intend to capture personalities; they just come out that way, which is really good. I guess it’s just the way that I see them and it comes through in my work,” says David. “When I see my photos printed and framed or in my book, I’m happy with the result. When I’m out there, I don’t always get it right. But, if not, I know it just means I’ll have to try again.” www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:21:13 p.m.

Digital – a negative invention? In an age of digital photography, it can be tempting to shoot first and edit later. Successful wildlife photographer, David Lloyd, does not subscribe to this theory. “For me, it’s a matter of ethics; if I can’t capture it with a camera alone then maybe I’m just not good enough!” While David may alter contrast or colours in post-production, the former professional graphic designer says he never uses Photoshop. “If I were to remove a leaf because it annoyed me, for example, I might be tempted to remove a twig, a branch, then a tree and so on. It’s a road I don’t want to start down. A very few might imply that some of my www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 19

photos are retouched; it’s actually a compliment in some ways!” David still dabbles in film photography and collects film cameras. In fact, one of his first was recently gifted back to him during a visit home for an exhibition at Howick’s Monterey Art Gallery. Although he says it would be nice to tackle a project or exhibition using film, digital offers more options. “That said, digital can come across as too clinical, too pure and clean. It’s hard to articulate, but film has a certain look and feel; more soul. It has a quality that can’t be reproduced with digital images. “It’s also quite something to hold a slide, thinking that it was in the

presence of that subject at that time; it’s a tangible thing. I think [music] purists would say you get a resonance with records that you can’t with CDs; it’s a similar kind of thing between film and digital photographs.” However sophisticated digital cameras become, David believes there is no substitute for skill or creative vision, and genuine satisfaction comes from the knowledge that he can replicate results.

they’re a photographer is the same as if I were to say ‘I’m a baker’ because I know how to use a bread maker! It’s about having control – a good photographer controls the camera and not the other way around,” he says.

“Modern cameras may not require as much skill but, then again, inexperienced users can’t always replicate the same shot they took the day before. Someone saying that because they can work a camera,

“Anyone can learn how to use a camera but the creative part is a gift from birth. Sure, you can embellish it with what you learn along the way, but it does come down to natural talent. I guess I was just lucky!” eastlife | august 2016 |

Photo Wayne Martin

‘

If I were to remove a leaf because it annoyed me, for example, I might be tempted to remove a twig, a branch, then a tree and so on. It’s a road I don’t want to start down. A very few might imply that some of my photos are retouched; it’s actually a compliment in some ways!”

29/07/2016 1:21:14 p.m.

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.eastlife.co.nz click on the competitions link and fill in the form. One entry per email address / person; entries close August 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

Win! A double pass to RNZB’s Giselle One of ballet’s greatest stories, Giselle is brought to life on the Auckland stage (Aug 31 – Sept 3) in the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s (RNZB) signature production. As part of a nationwide tour, this performance – billed as ‘romantic, mystical and mesmerising’ – tells the tale of a peasant girl who must learn to live (or die) with a broken heart. For details, see rnzb.org.nz. EastLife has a double pass to the September 1 performance to give away. PLEASE NOTE: entries for this competition close August 25; winner to collect tickets from the box office at ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre, prior to show.

Win! A Konka Windows Tablet

WIN! PALMOLIVE OIL INFUSIONS RANGE Essentials oils, extracted from plants – flowers, bark, leaves and roots – have been used for centuries to enhance health and beauty but in recent years their ‘re-discovery’ has sparked an explosion of interest. Now, Palmolive has launched a new, luxurious, Oil Infusions range enriched with an infusion of essential oils and botanical extracts. Available at major supermarkets and leading pharmacies, the range includes three unique fragrance blends: Jasmine with Avocado Oil, Citrus with Jojoba Oil and Rose with Macadamia Oil and includes a body moisturiser, body wash, liquid hand wash and body bar. EastLife has an awesome prize pack valued at $30 including one of each product with different fragrances to give away.

Once upon a time, mankind chiselled images into stone tablets; it seems, the more things change, the more they stay the same! However, modern tablets – such as this 10.1 inch, Windows 10 beauty by Konka – prove that we’ve come a long way indeed. While being light in weight, the KW1022AK is no lightweight when it comes to graphics or performance, thanks to its 1280x800 pixel screen and 1.8 Ghz Z3735G Quad Core Processor. In plain English, it’s fast and good looking too! EastLife has a KW1022AK up for grabs.

N T

Ico and hos Wh ass

Win! A Boy of China

WIN! THREE-PIECE KUMARA FUSION DELI PACK Launched earlier this year in three different flavours – Original, Honey and Chocolate - Kumara Fusion’s healthy, sophisticated alternative to other dips, pastes and spreads, is dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and contains no added preservatives or colours. Enjoy it as a dip, a spread or simply on its own off a spoon! Kumara Fusion treats pair perfectly with fruits, nuts and cheeses and turns simple sandwiches into something nutritious, delicious and exciting. Enter our draw to win a pack of all three flavours – value $23.97. (Each $130g tub, $7.99).

E w p p d a

Maraca’s newest luxury fragrance, Generalife Gardens, was named for the historic Jardines del Generalife (meaning Architect’s Garden) in Alhambra, Spain, and the new scent reflects the gardens’s mist-laden, heavily scented ambiance. The green bouquet features fresh notes of musk and vetiver to echo the garden’s exotic Moorish history, whilst delicately warming notes of green tomato leaf, blackcurrant and wild fig help conjured up the garden’s heady nature during the cooler months. The Maraca Natural Soy Wax Candle – Generalife Gardens (RRP $54.95) and Maraca Diffuser – Generalife Gardens (RRP $54.95), available at selected pharmacies, but EastLife has a gorgeous boxed candle up for grabs.

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 20 | eastlife | august 2016

WIN! MARACA’S NEW LUXURY CANDLE

www.eastlife.co.nz

AUC

TH MID0137_AMG_99_EM

How could the architect of communist China, Mao Tse-tung, have ever ‘lost’ a son? Intrigued by stories of a son given away by Mao and his then-wife, EastLife editor, Helen Perry, couldn’t wait to read this compelling book. She recommends A Boy of China, as offering insights into a world far removed from her own and commends the inclusion of images documenting author Richard Loseby’s journey. Mystified by the ‘official’ explanation of the boy’s fate, Loseby journey alone across China in search of any truth behind an enduring legend and has produced a ‘must-have’ for history buffs or those simply keen on riveting reads. • Richard Loseby: A Boy of China – In Search of Mao’s Lost Son | RRP $36.99 | HarperCollins

This $250

MID0137 A eastlife august 2016.indd 20

29/07/2016 1:21:20 p.m.

NOW YOU CAN AFFORD TO BE DIFFERENT. Iconic, intelligent and exciting at every turn the MINI 3 Door Hatch is the quintessential MINI, and it’s now available on an irresistible finance offer. Made for smart and stylish driving, it hosts a unique interior cockpit design along with the latest in technology and safety features. What’s more it comes with three years of MINI scheduled servicing, warranty plan and roadside assistance. So take advantage of this finely tuned finance offer and make your mark on the road.

$99

Estimated Weekly Payment (EWP)

EWP means our estimate of the weekly cost to you for budgeting purposes of the 47 monthly payments required. An initial deposit and final balloon payment are also required.

OFFER INFORMATION • • • • • •

MINI 3 Door Hatch - Cooper (Automatic) Initial Deposit $9,500 $396 Monthly Payments (Months 1-47) EWP $99 Final Balloon Payment $15,500 (Month 48) Total Amount Payable $43,612 Fixed Interest Rate 4.54% p.a.

AUCKLAND MINI GARAGE. 381-383 Broadway, Newmarket. 0800 548 352. MINI.CO.NZ

MID0137_AMG_99_EM

THE CLASSIC MINI 3 DOOR HATCH.

Thiswww.eastlife.co.nz offer is based on a standard MINI 3 Door Hatch – Cooper (Automatic) with a Drive Away Price of $39,200. Terms and conditions apply. An|establishment fee of eastlife august 2016 | 21 $250 is included. This offer expires 31st August 2016 and is subject to BMW Financial Services New Zealand Limited standard lending criteria. www.mini.co.nz/finance

MID0137 AMG_99_EM.indd 1 eastlife august 2016.indd 21

25/07/16 12:16 PM 29/07/2016 1:21:21 p.m.

Getting ‘Brisy’ with it...

9.5 REASONS TO VISIT BRISBANE

Queensland 1979 – Brisbane International Airport was little more than a tin shed and very, very hot! Since that first visit more than 35 years ago HELEN PERRY has ‘swanned’ in and out on numerous occasions and seen the terminal evolve but she had not gone into ‘town’ properly until a few weeks ago. Queensland has been a favourite holiday spot for our family – Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Port Douglas and more. But the first time I ventured into the State’s big smoke was a year ahead of becoming a mum many years ago. That was a holiday and a half. Not only was it a Queensland first, it was an Aussie first. We had religiously saved $10 a week for a long time and once there took time to wander for 10 days before finally taking a bus tour down to Sydney where we spent another week. It was 10 years before we returned and that’s when our travelling days really began. Since then we have crossed the Tasman many times and seen a great deal of this great country but it was only in June this year that man about the house I managed to snatch a four-day break and head back to Brisbane proper. I’m so glad we did. There is nothing quite like that lovely feeling when the plane soars skywards and all pressures are left behind. We touched down three hours 20 minutes later and were in at our hotel in time for dinner.

22 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 22

Just a short walk from the Queen Street Mall and a few strides from Central Station, the recently refurbished Novotel was ideally located, providing contemporary surrounds, gym, pool, a great bed, good dining – on this occasion we ate elsewhere only on the Saturday night – and the regulatory happy hour when the bar became quite convivial. A keen accommodation deal included breakfast and I was impressed at the way in which kitchen and wait staff went out of their way to accommodate requests. But the real purpose of this trip was just to wander the town and see what was what. We crammed in quite a bit without going hard out so, here are some things we enjoyed and a little extra too! • The city hopper – a free ferry service which runs half hourly from 6am to midnight, travelling side to side along the Brisbane River.

Story Bridge Poor timing meant we missed out on a formal river cruise but free meandering of this lovely waterway was jolly good value. First time round we boarded at North Quay and went just as far as the next stop at Southbank. There we alighted and wandered through the parkland which was originally home to the 1988 World Expo. Today the gardens are stunning with a variety of attractions including the Queensland Conservatorium and the Wheel of Brisbane offering grand views of the city. We called into one of the several cafe/ bars/eateries, ordered sangria and just passed the time people-watching. We used this service again to access Eagle Pier (not far from our hotel by road) where there

was raft of wonderful restaurants overlooking the river with gorgeous views of Story Bridge and city lights. • Hop on Hop off Brisbane Explorer bus. We opted for the 24-hour ticket ($80 each) which gave us unlimited access to the two tours – a 90-minute round trip city tour and a one-hour trip which went further afield taking in the fabulous Botanic Gardens and Mt Coot-tha Lookout. We did the Mt Coot-tha trip first which also gave us a 10-minute lookout stop – spectacular. We returned to the city in time to join the longer inner, city tour. We didn’t do hop on or off, preferring to sit up top in the open air where we enjoyed the ride, the commentary and the outlook. Next time round we will go back to a couple of places which took our fancy.

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:21:29 p.m.

City Botanic Gardens • Eagle Pier. Although just a 10-minute walk from our hotel, we accessed the pier first by ferry having started out in another part of town. While wandering this attractive restaurant precinct we booked Saturday night dinner at George’s Paragon Seafood Restaurant where the menu was half price if patrons were seated by 6pm. Despite the discount, our meal, with drinks, still came to $135 for two and I would have liked it a little less packed. Service was excellent (as it was wherever we went) and the food enjoyable without being extraordinary. The outlook was lovely and I liked the upmarket presentation which included white linen tablecloths. George’s was a good choice but there were a wide variety of venues at the pier and despite Matt Moran’s Aria restaurant showing mains at between $40 and $55, I rather wished we had tried it. It looked stunning. • The Regent Theatre. Although no longer a theatre – only the front facade and foyer have been retained – this is something special. With its plaster castings, high cathedral ceilings and commanding murals (ceiling and walls) it is a mix of

Vietnam & Angkor Wat

Eagle Pier Spanish, Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Now occupied by the Information Centre, it is worth wandering inside and taking five minutes (or more) to sit and reflect on a long gone Hollywood era. • Scout Place and the Cliffs Boardwalk. Located on the Southbank side, this is easily accessed by the City Hopper ferry and features an impressive stone shelter at the top of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs from where visitors enjoy more panoramic city views. It is also a superb spot for photographers wanting to capture the sunset or sunrise. The boardwalk, at the base of the cliffs, is obviously a popular route for walkers and there was also some abseiling going on when we passed by – a lovely river bank spot in the middle of the city. • ANZAC Square, Adelaide Street. We wandered past this heritagelisted town square and war memorial on most days and couldn’t help but admire and respect the Shrine of Remembrance and the Eternal Flame, which burns continuously in a bronze urn. As well as the Women’s War Memorial, which forms part of the

ANZAC Square memorial wall, there are other warrelated statues referring to different conflicts – a restful spot, just a short walk from Queen Street Mall.

French patisserie and more. A place to hop off from the Explorer bus, perhaps?

In addition to the statue in this peaceful square we were constantly astounded by the mix of architecture and the abundance of sculptures and statuary throughout the city. Statues are a feature of many Australian cities, just one of the cultural aspects that endear me to this country. • Queen Street Mall – the heart of city shopping and lively every day we were there. Talented buskers as well as substantial performances from a variety of musical and theatrical groups graced the mall daily. Like so much of Brisbane, the pedestrian walk was well endowed with trees, endorsing the leafy ambience seen throughout the inner city. Brisbane exudes a whole lot of soul and whether one wants to shop, eat, or just be a bystander there’s plenty to please. • The Barracks is home to exclusive specialty shops and exotic restaurants. It is the perfect place to treat your taste buds or pick up something unique. Experience the sensory delights of French Vietnamese cuisine, Spanish tapas, a

Japan Discovery

Cuba & Panama

18 days – 6-23 Nov, 2016 Join us on a vibrant tour of Vietnam, along with a visit to the fascinating and ancient Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

19 days – 6-24 Nov, 2016 Immerse yourself in the unique culture of Japan and enjoy everything from classical gardens to Geisha dancing.

23 days – 28 Feb-22 Mar, 2017 Take advantage of this amazing opportunity to experience the lively and exciting country of Cuba before it changes forever.

From $7,700 pp share twin

From $11,900 pp share twin

From $12,900 pp share twin

• Brisbane parks and there are many, but two we whisked past were the inner City Botanic Gardens and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt Coottha, (about six kilometres outside of the city). We spotted both on our hop-on-hop off tour, upper level seats giving us a healthy glimpse of beautiful landscaping, sculptures and water features. Though desperate to return to one or both, time just ran out. I understand there are many rare trees and plants within these gardens so I’ve earmarked them for a future visit. In the meantime, I’m thinking these are two places of beauty no garden lover would want to miss. Finally, while I’ve listed nine places that took my fancy, there were many others that space just doesn’t allow for. Yet, some very practical umbrella covers I spotted outside The Treasury Casino rated a mention. There, at the door, was a stand from which visitors could take sheath-style plastic covers to slip over wet brollies thus protecting interior carpets and furnishings from drips and drops! Such a practical idea – I loved it!

Specialists in escorted tours to exotic destinations. Join us on our global travels to India, Africa, South America, Tuscany, Eastern Europe, Central Asia and more. Our escorted tours include all items such as airfares, accommodation, sightseeing and transport.

12508-v5

Find out more at www.toursdirect.co.nz • 0800 868 748 (toll-free) • info@toursdirect.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 23

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:21:31 p.m.

Vanuatu remains a paradise Key into Clayderman Roll over Beethoven, it’s time for another piano man to shine! Okay, some might say that Richard Clayderman can’t hold a candle to Ludwig Van, but record sales of 150 million, plus 267 gold and 70 platinum discs don’t lie.

EastLife managing director REAY NEBEN has visited Vanuatu on more than one occasion, the last time, several months after Cyclone Pam wreaked havoc across the tropical paradise. Here she reminds travellers that Vanuatu remains a viable holiday destination with tourism helping to repair the economy. Despite massive damage to infra-structure and homes, visitors holidaying on the main island of Efate can enjoy all the delights expected of a winter-warm Pacific destination.

We also enjoyed a private balcony with ocean view and I must say the restaurant and bar were first class. For adventurers, the Mele Cascades Waterfall is about 15 km away and the hotel organises tours there.

G & FISH

RIT

O SA

ND DIVING

C O S T IS

VO LC

Summer’s here. Only 3 hours away, you can go adventuring on a live volcano, witness land diving, experience incredible fishing and scuba diving. ...Or just laze on the beach and indulge in a great book.

12855

Despite hardships, Vanuatu was as fascinating as ever but best of all were the people. They smiled so readily and were genuinely thrilled by tourists visiting their country. So many told us they needed the tourists to come back and they certainly were. So, for those wondering if this is a good time to visit – from our experience, it sure is.

Food aside I do recommend the local markets – we shopped a lot – and a visit to Tanna Coffee Refinery, housed in the original Catholic church. The coffee is so good it is exported to Australia. While still operating when we were there, coffee beans were in short supply as Cyclone Pam had destroyed many of the bushes. New planting had begun but as each plant takes three years to fruit, it will be a while before full production can be achieved.

We also enjoyed Tilly’s Restaurant at Chantilly’s Hotel. Sitting sea-side, it offered international cuisine including tapas, which really suited us for lunch. Finally, I should mention the restaurant at Paradise Cove Resort – we tucked into a sumptuous dinner there and, again, found it virtually

There’s more to do in Vanuatu

impossible to fault location, views and service.

One place I really enjoyed was Cafe du Village, a fabulous little French eatery right down on the harbour. It didn’t look much from the road but once inside the small courtyard, it exuded French style. Interestingly, the cafe was owned by two Kiwis who did a first class job of food and service.

Tickets on ticketmaster.co.nz – official website: www.pyi.co.nz

This stunning resort had its own private sandy beach, an infinity pool, free WIFI and free kayaking and snorkelling equipment rental. Our apartment was air conditioned with a kitchen although we ate out a lot, trying to do our bit for local business.

Most days we just headed for our favourite place in the sun and settled down to read until midday. Then it was a quick change and off to lunch. Moreover, wherever we went the food was always good and sometimes exquisite.

“In fact, the second Auckland concert was only recently added to accommodate the great response,” Paul says. “And, show-goers are in for a real treat. Richard will play a repertoire of pop standards and classic as well as his own originals. Players from the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra will also play on stage with him.”

We were staying at the lovely Nasama Resort at Pango, just 10 minutes drive from Port Vila and could not believe there had been a cyclone in this part. Situated down the beach with great facilities, it seemed far removed from the island’s difficulties.

Nasama Resort

Howick man, Paul Young, owner of Wow Digital Images & Studio and concert organiser, says although there is still some time before Clayderman rolls into town for concerts on October 14 and 15, tickets are expected to sell out.

When we landed at Port Vila, it was several months after the cyclone and many resorts were operating as usual although a few larger hotels were still undergoing repair.

This French maestro of romantic melodies – born Phillipe Pages but changed his named to avoid mis-pronunciation of his real name outside of France – will soon tug at the heart strings while tinkling the ivories at the Logan Campbell Centre, ASB Showgrounds.

A ISL A

generated at BeQRious.com

REDRET008

www.airvanuatu.com PH: 09 373 34 35 | airvanuatu@airvanuatu.co.nz Like us on Facebook:

24 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 24

/airvanuatu

Don’t wait - come visit Vanuatu! www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:21:32 p.m.

Why Waikiki? GERARD MURPHY from Bon Voyage Cruises & Travel shares his Top 5 favourite free and low cost things to do in Waikiki.

I’ve been to Hawaii quite a few times in the past 35 years but Waikiki is still one of my favourite places. Sure it’s busy, but a very relaxed version of busy.

Honolulu Cookie Company

Shangri-La Islamic Art Centre

Of course, the beach is fabulous but once you’ve had one of your two or three daily swims, what else is there? Here are few of my favourite things. • I’m no shopper but I love Kalakaua Ave, the main street, with shopping until 10pm. There’s everything from luxury brands right down to countless ABC convenience stores selling all sorts from ready-made meals through to ubiquitous T-shirt deals – 5 for $20. TIP 1: Don’t miss the Honolulu Cookie Company with stores every few hundred metres, each with a complete range in large sampling jars – free! Why pay for dessert, I say? • Lobby Loiter! Be a little nosey and check out the famous historical hotels. They are open to the public and, of course, there are many bars and cafes within. The Royal Hawaiian, better known as The Pink Palace, has magnificent gardens and is a must do for brunch on the terrace. The historical Westin Moana Surfrider with its panelled lobby and staircase, opens on to a magnificent courtyard dominated by ancient banyan trees. TIP 2: Linger on the porch at the Surfrider in its old rocking chairs

Westin Moana Surfrider

Cottages at 3027 Kalakaua

– a great spot for people watching especially streetside! • Walk everywhere. There is so much to see around Waikiki. Take the long hike around the base of Diamond Head. From the beach, turn left into Monsarrat Ave and go counter clockwise. As you come back along the coast you take in the best views of cliffside homes then Waikiki itself. At the end of the circuit turn left into Coconut Ave and the start of Kalakaua. TIP 3: Check out the mid-Century designed hotels and apartment

blocks in this area and the darling cottages at No. 3027 Kalakaua. You will find a walkway to the seawall near here too!

and the museum is a must see on its own. You’ll be surprised how many masterpieces are just a stone’s throw from Waikiki.

• One of the highlights has to be Shangri-La, an absolutely stunning, Islamic- styled clifftop residence built in the late 1930s by a wealthy young heiress, Doris Duke, to house her extensive art collection. I won’t tell you more or it will spoil the surprise!

• Finally, every holiday should finish with a bang! Every Friday night, the Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a wonderful free fireworks display! Don’t miss it.

TIP 4: Tour entry just US$25 but early bookings essential. It is operated by the Honolulu Museum of Art. You join the tour here, just beyond Alamoana,

TIP 5: The best spot to watch is at the marina just beyond the Rainbow Hilton, or book a dinner at The Grove – poolside at The Modern Hotel. Great food, no crowds and the fireworks right on top of you.

Island Escape Cruises offer an absolutely unique experience on their 42 metre purpose built catamaran. This is an invitation to explore our majestic World Heritage Site, alongside an onboard ecology guide and just 24 guests. Think of it as a ship-based version of a luxury lodge, combining pristine wilderness, amazing wildlife, luxurious accommodation, exceptional service, and chef-prepared gourmet meals. Choose one of 10 cruises between January and March 2017. Check the inclusions …. l l l l l l l

Return Air New Zealand flights to Queenstown with transfers. One night pre and post cruise at Heritage Hotel, including breakfast. Private Coach transfers from Queenstown Heritage Hotel to Te Anau. Scenic Helicopter flight landing on Island Passage's helicopter deck. Six night private yacht style cruise with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Complimentary full bar with wine, beer, spirits, juices and water. Tours ashore with an Island Escape’s experienced Fiordland tour guide. Flights and/or Coach from Milford Sound to Queenstown.

8 NIGHTS FLY-CRUISE - JAN-MAR 2017 FARES: Per person - Share twin from $6249 Fares in NZD$ per person, based on two people sharing twin. Limited availability - Special conditions apply.

Ph: 0800 266 869 www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 25

Tasman Sea

Auckland Poison Bay

Sutherland Sound Bligh Sound George Sound

Milford Sound

Queenstown

Coach

Caswell Sound Lake Te Anau

Flight

Charles Sound Nancy Sound

Helicopter

Te Anau

Lake Wakatipu

Coach 12045-v4

www.bonvoyage.co.nz eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:21:40 p.m.

Burns survivor made of stern stuff Surviving third degree burns will almost certainly mean disfigurement, multiple surgeries and years of painful rehabilitation – something most people refuse to contemplate. But one Flat Bush woman not only came through such an ordeal but with the Support of the Burns Support Group Charitable Trust emerged a strong, compassionate and motivated person with a fulfilling life as HELEN PERRY discovered. Mata La’Akulu is one of the most courageous and incredibly grounded people I have ever met. Her life took an unprecedented turn when as small baby, asleep in bed, a light bulb shattered, fell on the bed and within minutes the bedding was ablaze. From that moment the probably ordinary childhood envisaged for her by her parents disappeared and baby Mata became another burns statistic in New Zealand. But she wouldn’t remain anonymous. Mata’s story started only weeks before the house fire that changed the course of her life. “I was born in the Cook Islands – a secret baby,” she says. “It was intended that my grandmother raise me but she died suddenly before I came home from the hospital. As is the way on the Cooks, my aunt took me and I became part of her family. She will always be ‘mum’ to me.” With Mata’s family booked to come to New Zealand shortly after her grandmother’s funeral, she too was part of their new life. “We lived in a state house in Otara, my parents both worked and the children shared beds. It wasn’t flash but I had a good childhood despite the challenges.” Those challenges began soon after the family settled into their new home. Mata and an older sister were fast asleep when the light bulb burst setting light to the bed. “My mother rushed in and managed to grab my sister. The fire station was close and I’m told an engine arrived really quickly but by time I was rescued the burns to my face and hands were severe. I had been lying with one arm up to my face, my hand touching my nose. These virtually ‘fused’ and I lost fingers and my nose which was later reconstructed. In fact, my chances of survival were slim.” But survive she did and though reluctant to go too deeply into the many painful aspects of her recovery, Mata admits the long journey,

26 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 26

begun with that emergency run to Middlemore Hospital, has impacted in many different ways. “While there were enormously painful times and countless trips to hospital for grafts and surgeries, I was very protected in my pre-school years. My parents did everything to give me a happy life at home and as a result seldom took me out in public. “But when it came time for school the impact of my injuries really came home and there began a journey which had to do with accepting what had happened and how it had left me. Fortunately, plastic surgeons had rebuilt my nose and although one hand was badly damaged, I had the other so I did okay.” While many people might have shunned public places, Mata remarkably began to embrace life. “Initially, I had no hair and had to undergo three tissues expansions. With each, one my hair began growing a little higher on me head. I had the second treatment while I was at college and would get terrible headaches. It was very hard; I didn’t want to go to school but I didn’t want to miss out either. “After my final expansion my hair was growing normally, all over my head. I was so happy there would be no more tissue expansions!” Mata she was still in primary school when the Burns Support Group Charitable Trust (BSG) was set up and she became involved in its activities. “Staff and volunteers helped build my self-confidence and helped me to understand myself. I progressed such a lot under their direction. “I especially remember them asking my parents it I could go to a camp with other young burns victims. Mum and dad were very hesitant especially mum who always wanted to protect me. She had to be assured and reassured. All I wanted was to be with other kids so when they finally said, ‘yes’, I was so excited, but they

still insisted on taking me there, just in case!” Because she rarely looked at herself in the mirror, Mata says playing a game of ‘touch and feel’ with other campers was a ‘new learning curve’. “We learned to look at each other and at ourselves; to touch and feel our own scars and each other’s. That was the start of a new process of selfdiscovery and self-acceptance.” Looking back Mata admits the camp was the catalyst for her growing into a confident and emotionally strong young woman who today serves of the BSG’s Board of Trustees. “I did other camps and at 10, even went to Disneyland with BSG. By time I left school I was in a pretty good place.” But, then came a new encounter – the working world. Burns victims can suffer innumerable loss due to their circumstance. Not only loss of physical appearance but loss of income, relationships and more. Remarkably, (or, knowing Mata, perhaps not) the teenager showed she had what it took to make her way and find employment . “I started out doing bar work and waitressing both here and in Australia. And why not? I’ve always found it satisfying to be around people and I’ve used that to my advantage. Some people see me as disadvantaged. I never have.” Since those early days of hospitality, Mata has explored various employment prospects and for the past two and a half years has worked for Skids, which operates after school care and holiday programmes. Between her day job, as well as being a BSG board member and a mother of four children, aged 7 to 12 years, she says, matter of factly, “I’m kept pretty much on the go.” “My daughter is very protective of me and wants to fight my battles but I do fine all by myself,” she says. “I’ve always been honest with them; I’ve told them about my scars and I

answer their questions. I want them to feel comfortable knowing who I am and where I have come from.” Although busy, Mata says she is never too busy when it comes to BSG work. “Understandably, I am ardent about safety. I believe smoke alarms should be mandatory in every home and all burn risks outlined to young people, not just fire risk. Did you know one of the highest number of burns come from children heating noodles in the microwave then tipping the bowl over themselves? “Education is imperative and thankfully the BSG is always happy to make speakers available to schools and other groups. Education is the first step in prevention, and if I can help in some way, accidents like mine may be avoided and outcomes like mine prevented. Burn accidents are still way too many in New Zealand; the numbers have to come down.” www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:21:39 p.m.

Mata, a confident and loving mum, with her four children Levron, Jayden, Jaylevan, Mii.

Photo Wayne Martin

Burning issues TACKLED BY TRUST With no government funding, and relying totally on the generosity the public, it could be said the Burns Support Group Charitable Trust (BSG) has enough on its hands just raising the funds needed each year to do its work. But, amazingly, BSG not only manages – sometimes with difficulty – to meet its own needs but has also raised $1.5 million dollars to assist burn units at public hospitals in Auckland and the Waikato. Administrator Michele Henry (one of two part-time employees) says BSG aims to lower the incidence of burn injuries and educate the public about burn risks whilst also supporting and assisting people with burn injuries. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 27

“We take a three pronged approach – prevention, education and care. This includes holding educational seminars, creating burn prevention awareness at community events and working with other community groups such as NZ Fire Service and the Middlemore Foundation to promote injury prevention awareness,” Michele says. “We also provide free burn prevention lessons and resources to schools, kindergartens, Kohanga Reo and other community groups in Auckland and offer free resources and ideas to interested teachers and schools throughout the country. When it comes to supporting and assisting people with burn injuries

Michelle says volunteers visit patients and their families in Middlemore Hospital and fund equipment to help burn patients, over and above that funded by the health service. “We foster the sharing of information between burn survivors, their families, health professionals and other interested parties and help improve patient care by attending appropriate conferences and workshops. “Our volunteers also accompany and support children who have burn injuries when they return to school and our annual Burn Support Children’s camp for 7-17 year olds has been another lifeline for many young people with burn injuries.”

To do all this, BSG, which was started in 1987 after founder Delwyn Tait’s son was Brendon received burns to 40% of his body in a Papakura explosion in 1984, relies on public donations. “Our biggest fundraiser is our sixweek annual telemarketing campaign which, this year, starts on July 27,” Michele says. “We know there are many worthwhile groups seeking assistance but with no government funding, support from the public really is essential and appreciated. “BSG does such great work where it is sorely needed so, we’re hoping this year, everyone will be supportive.” eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:21:44 p.m.

‘ Kidding around Frankie Potts series With flaming red hair, an enquiring mind and an addiction to gobstoppers, Frankie Potts is no ordinary girl. And when she sets her mind to it, it seems no mystery in the village of Tring will go unsolved for long.

Bikini Burglar Juliet Jacka introduces us to a sleuth with a penchant for uncovering the truth. • Juliet Jacka: Frankie Potts and the Sparkplug Mysteries & Frankie Potts and the Bikini Burglar | RRP $11.99 each | Puffin / Penguin NZ

In the first two books, of what expects to be an engaging series (primarily for readers aged 7-10), this indomitable character is on the case of a dog gone from his home, a tattooed grandma and even a burglar who’s bent on pinching a diamond-encrusted bikini!

Charlie & the War against THE Grannies

In Frankie Potts and The Sparkplug Mysteries and Frankie Potts and The

From analysis of its causes, to gathering allies — including Hils,

The grannies started it — when 11-year-old Charlie asked them about a paper round, they sprayed him in the face with chilli sauce!

WIN! To be in to win any (or possibly all!) of these top titles, simply complete the appropriate forms on the competitions section at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address (for each of the above); entries close August 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

All those who’ve put away childish things best drag them back out again because it’s time to celebrate some great (new and recent) children’s books!

Rashid, Peter the Iraqi, and Warren and his magical bike, ‘TwelveSpeed’ — Charlie presents a thoughtprovoking history of a war liable to be told for generations. Readers best set notions of kindly dears aside; in this book, Charlie is well justified in waging war against the elderly... and he didn’t really mean to blow any of them up! • Alan Brough: Charlie and the War against the Grannies | RRP $19.99 | Macmillan Publishers NZ

Fizzy Pop The story of a school girl addicted to

soft drinks and telly, Fizzy Pop reveals that soft drinks can cause much more embarrassing problems than cavities. When Lizzy runs a cross country race, a gaseous, carbonated catastrophe – in the form of a bottom belch of epic proportions – sends her flying to the moon! Can the heroic Max Martin and Lizzy’s other classmates bring her back down to earth? All is revealed as Fizzy Pop – a ‘fantastical tale of friendship, flying machines, fizzy drinks and flatulence – bubbles along. • Emma Vere-Jones and Kate Snushall: Fizzy Pop | RRP $19.99 | Bookhead Press

VISIT OUR WEBSITE PROUD TO BE LOCAL

pakurangaplaza.co.nz

New Website Launched

SEE WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS

28 | eastlife | august 2016

VISIT OUR WEBSITE & YOU COULD WIN A 40” TV Our new website now has seamless content for all your devices Terms and conditions apply.

www.eastlife.co.nz

01450-v7

PPL-Website-Eastlife-Half-Pg-v1.indd 1 eastlife august 2016.indd 28

20/07/16 2:27 PM 29/07/2016 1:21:47 p.m.

Winter Warmers Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner Caryn Mawkes has some suggestions for winter-warming, family dinner ideas. Yes, indeed, it’s that time of year already when the food on your table needs to be just that little bit more warming and comforting.

helpful hints include:

What better way to welcome in the colder months than with a lovely stew, casserole, curry or pie?

• Put the slow cooker on in the morning and dinner will be ready when you arrive home.

When it comes to raising a family, one of the hardest jobs is trying to come up with ideas for dinner every night – let alone trying to find the time to cook!

• Use left over roast meat and turn it into a shepherd’s pie or a frittata.

With everyone having such busy lifestyles and schedules, it may be helpful to meal plan for the week and this will take away the stress of having to think about what to cook each day.

• Pick one night a week to have a designated meal, such as ‘Taco Tuesday’ or ‘Sandwich Saturday’. This will simplify the grocery list.

Why not make meals a family affair where everyone can suggest their favourite meal ideas. With that in mind, we’ve put together a collection of easy, winter meals for delicious dinners.

Winter Warmers: • Macaroni cheese • Potato top lamb casserole • Chicken and leek hot pot • Slow cooked sausages and lentils • Pesto chicken pasta • Cheesy chicken meatball sliders • Creamy fish pie • Fish and corn cakes • Sausage and broccoli frittata • Beef stroganoff • Roast chicken thighs with orange and tarragon • Bacon wrapped meat loaf • Roast vegetable tart • Ratatouille

• Make an extra portion and place it in the freezer.

• Schedule a day each week to plan meals and shopping lists.

• Embrace colourful fruit and veg: children eat with their eyes – the more colourful and fun a plate of food looks to them; the more delicious it will appear. • Citrus fruit, such as lemons, oranges and limes, can be frozen whole. Take them out and grate the zest (still frozen) when you need it for cooking. • You can freeze cheese. It’s best to grate hard cheeses, such as cheddar or parmesan, before freezing. Leftover cream cheese, cottage cheese, ricotta and feta cheese can also be frozen. • Storing onions and potatoes together makes them both spoil faster. Potatoes are best kept in a dark place to stop them going green (away from the onions). The goal is to simplify what should be an enjoyable part of every day.

THE IQ DEBATE NATURE OR NURTURE? Brainstorm Tuition director Bill Porter, BA MPhil, offers his opinions on education in the 21st century.

When IQ tests were devised last century it was assumed that the IQ for any individual was static over time, but in his remarkable book, Does your Family Make You Smarter? Dr James Flynn from the University of Otago, says that: “Intelligence has always been thought to be static. However, the new evidence shows that this is wrong. The brain seems to be rather like a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it gets. That means you can upgrade your own intelligence all through life.” This is something I have observed first-hand in my own teaching. If you challenge students to think in different ways about problems, they will start to solve them on their own. For example, my constant refrain is, “have you drawn a diagram?” It’s amazing how many times I come back to them after a few minutes only to find that they have put all of the available information together and completed the problem. Dr Flynn points out that post Second World War Holland, the average IQ increased by 21 points between 1952 and 1982. Since, as he says, “no one has been machinegunning people with IQ’s under 100 in each generation”, the increase in overall IQ levels had to be caused by environmental factors. He suggests that the increased scientific sophistication forced people to solve more complex

‘

The brain seems to be rather like a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger it gets. That means you can upgrade your own intelligence all through life.”

problems, which stimulated their brains to be more powerful. In today’s world of ubiquitous mobile ‘devices’ we could expect this effect to accelerate. However, with teens using ‘screen technologies’ for many hours a day, they may neglect other activities. For example, physical activity, exploring the world and relating to people face to face instead of via a screen. I have found that modern students have enormous trouble expressing the simplest ideas in writing, even in maths internals. What can parents do? Engage children in conversation. Take them to the library and encourage them to try new books. Provide opportunities to explore the world around them. Make sure they have regular physical activity and seek out intellectual pursuits such as chess, and debates. Younger students (up to Year 10) should also be encouraged to sit some of the maths exams put out by universities such as the ICAS exams, which can be sat in New Zealand. Teach your children well.

Brainstorm Tuition – Cambridge & NCEA Unlocking each student’s potential

Early Learning Centre • Hours 7.30am-5.30pm, full & part time • Positions for children aged 0-5 years • Our family relationships are important to us. Education Review Ofﬁce in April 2014 rated our centre in the top 5%. They stated: Consistent, effective teaching practice; Children happy and settled, with a strong sense of belonging; Children involved in rich literacy, numeracy and science opportunities

WE WELCOME YOU TO VISIT OR CONTACT US: Rockabye Early Learning Centre, 122 Aviemore Dr, Highland Park • Email caryn@rockabye.school.nz Ph 533 0218 • www.rockabye.school.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

01990

Professional Tuition Maths, English and Science Many marks go up by 30% “He has got a lot out of the sessions with you. It makes a huge difference getting help from someone who actually knows how to teach.” Satisfied parent

Visit www.BrainstormTuition.com for more testimomials

Enrol now! Phone: 533-9092 or 021-254-0350 Email: Bill@BrainstormTuition.com 13517

eastlife | august 2016 |

01450-v7

/16 2:27 PM eastlife august 2016.indd 29

29/07/2016 1:21:51 p.m.

hot shops SHOES On PictOn On trend Howick footwear store, Shoes on Picton, knows how to bring style and comfort to heel. Specialising in quality fashion and casual footwear for women, the independent and locally-owned store is staffed by people who live and breathe shoe, the owner having studied shoe design in England in the early 1980s then worked in design, manufacturing and wholesaling ever since. Stocking a wide variety of unique brands from around the globe, Shoes on Picton not only showcases the latest styles but offers personalised, one-on-one service aimed at total customer satisfaction. 79 Picton St, Howick Phone 09 534 3719 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 8.30am-2.30pm

ELEgAnt FABrIC Beautiful textiles, yarns and haberdashery, all at affordable prices, are key to the Elegant Fabric Shop, which opened in Howick 18 months ago. With more and more people discovering this treasure trove of materials, the word has spread to sewers, craftspeople, knitters and more. Owner Linda Li says new customers are amazed to find exactly what they have been looking for. “After discovering our shop one visitor said she was inspired to start knitting and sewing again. I was delighted.” Linda encourages anyone looking for fabric and yarns to pop in for some inspiration. She’s sure they’ll be back for more! 5/10 24 Wellington St, Howick (behind Monterey Cinemas) Phone 09 5358845, www.elegantfabric.co.nz 13667

13669

HOWICK VILLAGE OPTOMETRISTS After 50 years in the optometry business the eyes have it and always will at independently owned Howick Village Optometrists. Offering a comprehensive range of products, including a huge selection of designer and fashionable frames, the professional team is totally focused on providing quality eye care, preventing eyesight deterioration and ensuring clients maintain their vision. We may only get one pair of eyes but Howick Village Optometrists is committed to their good health and employs up to the minute technology to deliver optimum outcomes.

94 Picton St, Howick Phone 09 534 8716 www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

Belle Boutique With an eye for design style that goes beyond the ordinary belle boutique owner, Rayner Bowman has made her focus edgy, contemporary, New Zealand-made apparel with emphasis on quality fabrics. With personal service a priority, Rayner is passionate about helping customers gather together an individual wardrobe perfectly matched to their personality, colour and looks. Also check out stunning accessories including Mooi bags, silk and steel jewellery and scarves as well as Minx, Beau Coops and Catherine Wilson shoes to name just a few. For personal styling please call for an appointment – gift vouchers also available. 21 Picton St, Howick (next to Apothecary Cafe) Phone 09 533 5384 www.belle.kiwi 13610

30 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 30

13665

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:21:54 p.m.

hot shops INFINITY FLOAT CENTRE Floatation Therapy has amazing benefits for stress relief, relaxation and physical recovery. The concept is that you spend an hour in a float tank, suspended in a zero gravity environment with salt-enriched water which is heated to your skin temperature. Six hundred kilograms of Epsom Salts is what allows for your body to float effortlessly, setting it in a naturally relaxed position. With no lights, sound or any other external stimulation your mind and body enter a deep state of relaxation. A typical float is equal to 4 hours of sleep and has been shown to have a significant impact on wellbeing in the following days. 7/2 Bishop Brown Pl, Botany Phone 09 274 2990, info@infinityfloat.co.nz www.infinityfloat.co.nz

PAndOrA A tale of oriental opulence and exotic ocean worlds is brought to life in Pandora’s Oriental Bloom collection, with jewellery that captures the excitement of faraway splendour. Traditional oriental patterns and floral prints in Crimson red and pink tones are illuminated with glossy enamel, glittering stones and sleek sterling silver, set the mood for a stunning season. The wonders of under the sea are beautifully referenced in this oceanic- inspired jewellery series which depicts miniature underwater scenes with shimmering teal and frost mint hues, while colourful tropical fruit and animal inspired pieces add a fun touch of glamour to the mix. The Pavillion, Botany Town Centre Phone 09 278 5550 www.facebook.com/pandorabotany 13725

NO. 5 DESIGN STORE Spring is on our doorstep so ditch the winter blues and call into No 5 Design Store where we will make you feel absolutely fabulous! Discover a huge range of fashion for you, the home and your friends – so much to choose from! What’s more, visit us in August, mention the code words “absolutely fabulous” and we will give you 20% off anything you buy instore. You will also go in the drawer for a bottle of champagne to celebrate No 5 Design Store being in business 11 years.

5 Whitford-Maraetai Rd, Whitford Village Phone 09 530 9333 Find us on Facebook and Instagram

DESIGN STORE

ANNe NAil Silk NAil SPeciAliST

lo u b a F y l e t u l Abso

For many women maintaining elegant nails is one beauty ritual they would never miss and a visit to Anne Nail Salon – a part of the Pakuranga Plaza for more than 11 years – is as routine as visiting a hair stylist. Offering a range of competitively priced treatments – including extensive manicure and pedicure services – Anne Nail also specialises in silk nails, often considered to be the most like natural nails. Flexible, breathable, thin yet strong they are less vulnerable to breakage and look fabulous. Find out more or book your nail service today..... Pakuranga Plaza Phone 09 576 6666 Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 9am-6pm, Thurs 9am-9pm, Sunday 10am-5pm

13738

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 31

13726

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:21:58 p.m.

Puzzle Cryptic Puzzle

time 1

NO. 10025

DOWN

1. A ttend and come out a winner (4). 7. Tough guy a copper is not? (3,2,4). 8. A counter shot (4). 9. A dirty colour? (4). 10. Try to put back time (4). 11. With good reason, the girl’s returned (4). 14. Began “It’s cooked as a pie...” (4,1,5). 16. Routine work of the professional golfer? (5,5). 19. Has made his or makes his confession (4). 22. Intimation of what’s making baby cry? (4). 24. Hit in the scuffle (4). 25. In a deputy, it’s a bad fault (4). 26. Not sure to be changeable (9). 27. Answer to “How much was it, my love?” (4).

1. Of the footballers, is the better (5). 2. Having a romance at one point with a foreigner (5). 3. Came round when phoned (6). 4. Moaned about somewhere in Italy (6). 5. Fifty-first in the index (4). 6. Make one study, effort though it is (9). 12. The assailant was routed by the dogs (9). 13. Mister Green has turned up (4). 15. What a fuss, boy, over nothing! (2-2). 17. Quote it while the Cree rampages round (6). 18. Not just a brunette (6). 20. When upset, I go in to complain (5). 21. Promise the points are to be switched (5). 23. Towed back, we were behind the doctor (4).

8 9 11

18 19

24 25

26 27

Quick Puzzle ACROSS

DOWN

1. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 14. 16. 19. 22. 24. 25. 26. 27.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 12. 13. 15. 17. 18. 20. 21. 23.

Barrel (4) Called up (9) Uncontrollably (4) Blemish (4) Parasite (4) Pool (4) Sadness (10) Stop (10) Profound (4) Dish (4) Yield (4) Jetty (4) Constable (9) Relate (4)

No. 10025

Creep (5) Chide (5) Force (6) Animal (6) Uprising (4) Filtrate (9) Reproduction (9) Warning (4) Grasp (4) Game (6) Nationality (6) Banish (5) Danger (5) Dam (4)

A company that is doubling year after year: Obtaining HUGE results for our clients.

f go

in ink

eastlife august 2016.indd 32

Puzzle answers on page 74

Sudoku

at at! y – ct th t r e e rop e resp p r yw you It’s Botan s urt o c r

32 | eastlife | august 2016

puzzle no. 25

ACROSS

lin sel

eu Giv

ll! a ca

Find out WHY and HOW.

Harcourts Botany Botany Town Centre (Beside Rockshop) Phone 09 261 3575 Email botany@harcourts.co.nz www.preetandco.co.nz 12416-v4

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:22:09 p.m.

It’s what’s underneath Bestselling author on how to look younger without surgery and managing director of Auckland Fashion Week www.aucklandfashionweek.nz DENYSE SAUNDERS outlines why a correct fitting bra is essential. I am passionate about advising women to wear a correctly fitted bra as it simply makes or breaks an outfit. It doesn’t matter how expensive the outer garments, if you are not wearing the right bra, it can all be a waste of money. The shape and size of a woman’s breasts can fluctuate a number of times in her life. This can be due to changes in weight, pregnancy, contraception, medication, activity and diet. It is all too common for many women to wear a bra which is too small in the cup and too big across the back. When a woman’s bust increases in size many women think their back must have increased in size, too. This is not necessarily true and, more often than not, it is simply that the bust has increased a cup size; thus it is essential to have a proper fitting. I can’t stress enough the importance of having a bra correctly fitted by a trained and experienced corsetiere. And, there is never a time when you should purchase a bra off the rack without first trying it on. The corsetiere is sensitive, discreet, respects your privacy and is accustomed to seeing women of all shapes and sizes. She will not be critical of your shape, and only wants to see you looking great and wellsupported. It is time to get over any embarrassment for the sake of your

that really counts

health and looking and feeling great, In a correctly fitting bra you will feel comfortable all day, every day. Correspondingly, self-esteem, confidence and body image will improve knowing you look great and feel great in a bra that fits correctly and comfortably, enhancing your shape and figure. The corsetiere will measure you under the breast tissue and around the ribcage, to give you your bra size (for example, 10, 12, 14 etc.). Then she will measure you around the breast tissue which will give you your cup size (for example, A, B, C, D, DD etc.). Together, these measurements provide the bra size you should begin trying on (for example 14DD).

Signs of an incorrect bra size • Your bra leaves red marks • The underwire digs in • The back of your bra rides up • Your breasts overflow from your bra cup • Your breasts do not completely fill the cups • Your bra causes bulges or cuts into the flesh • The edges of the cups do not lie fat against your breasts

What constitutes a ‘good fit’ in a bra? • The back doesn’t ride up • There is adequate breast separation

Model: Del Samara, DS Models Photographer: James Saunders, Mode

• It produces good breast uplift or support • The cups are large enough to fully support the breasts • The underwire sits correctly against the sternum

• A pleasing cup shape works well with your natural breast shape, and enhances it • Shoulder straps don’t fall over the shoulders, or dig into the shoulders causing a deep groove

1/10 The Terraces, 24 Wellington Street, Howick | Ph 535 9554 Email salon@terraceshair.co.nz | Web www.terraceshair.co.nz

WeOur wantteam you toishave hair that growing

& butlooks we stillGREAT want you

to have that feelshair GREAT

so we have looks GREAT & GREAT people & feels GREAT GREAT products. 00482-v6

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 33

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:22:08 p.m.

SPONSORED

Putting a permanent smile on people’s faces For someone who fainted at the sight of blood as a 16 year old dental assistant, she has come a long way. Her reputation as one of the top clinical dental technicians in Howick, precedes her. It was her love for aesthetics that led Ugie Moodley to put a permanent smile on people’s faces. And, you know you are in great hands as you hear Ms Moodley talk passionately about the state- of-the-art technology she uses to create a smile from prostheses the size of a little finger to that of replacing all teeth. Keeping herself regularly updated by attending workshops and courses, she says it is a blessing to be privy to all the new technology as it updates. “Each course allows us to actually work with new materials and techniques which makes being a dental technician at this time very exciting and rewarding,” Ms Moodley says. “Most partial dentures have anchors called clasps that are used to retain the denture in your mouth. “These can sometimes show and ruin a beautiful smile. “We are now equipped with technology to resolve this. There are so many combinations

At Niche Denture Centre the hot cure process is used to ensure 100% guaranteed quality dentures.

NICHE DENTURE CENTRE OFFERS: • All types of dentures • Repairs while you wait • Relines within 24 hours • 100% guarantee on all new work done Ugie Moodley available, that it is hardly ever the same for each patient. “If light metal frameworks have to be used you can be assured that they are nickel and beryllium-free,” she says. With more than 20 years creating dentures it is no wonder Ugie has local clients and from around the world that sing her praises.

A word from Ugie’s clients: Mae Salvador

Pamela Harrison

42 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 42

Pro tips: ■ If the corners of your mouth are red and irritated with saliva leaking from them, you may have a condition called Angular Cheilitis. This can be treated with a topical anti-fungal ointment but if the condition reappears it may be caused by the reduced vertical dimension of your dentures. ■ Dentures need to be checked on a regular basis, once or twice every two years. It’s very like getting a WOF for your car only your dentures are a part of you and must achieve far greater feats than your car.

“For me a smile is the prettiest thing a lady can wear. But I didn’t always feel that way. I had my previous set of dentures made overseas and I was embarrassed to smile. It was an awful feeling as they didn’t even work properly. When I returned to NZ, I was referred to Ugie at Niche Dental by my sister-inlaw and I can now smile confidently. In fact, I feel like smiling all the time. Thank you Ugie for my beautiful new smile.” – Mae Salvador “I am very happy with the service I received. I got exactly what I needed with great respect and friendliness. The best dental practice yet!” – Pamela Harrison

16 Selwyn Road, Howick, Phone 09 533 0036, Mobile 021 171 3433 Email nichedental@xtra.co.nz www.nichedental.co.nz, www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:22:40 p.m.

Celebrities love it, you will too! If we could all live as long as Weleda Skin Food – and look as good too – then turning 90 would indeed be a celebration.

actives including organic chamomile, calendula, rosemary and wild pansy in a thick base of sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil and organic beeswax .

Amazingly this widely used product was first formulated in 1926 and remains largely unchanged today. What’s more, the awardwinning natural skin care product has, we are told, been a favourite with celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Demi Moore, Rihanna and Joss Stone as well as leading models Helena Christensen, Chandra North, Claudia Barila and Karen Ferrari – to name a few! A deeply nourishing and intensely hydrating whole-body moisturiser, Weleda Skin Food works to restore and protect dry and rough skin and contains a mixture of organic plant

TOP 10 USES FOR WELEDA SKIN FOOD: 1. A pply as a primer to boost complexion and help makeup last throughout the day 2. Protect and nourish lips to keep them smooth and moisturised 3. Protect and replenish skin affected by intensely air-conditioned in-flight environments 4. Massage in and around the nail area for a revitalising and restorative nail and cuticle treatment 5. Protect extremities against the ravages of wind, weather and chafing during outdoor activities

‘

6. Treat a chapped nose due to cold or flu with wild pansy’s healing properties 7. Intensely hydrate to restore and protect hard-working hands. For a nourishing treatment smooth onto hands, cover with cotton gloves and leave overnight 8. Soften and soothe slow healing scars 9. Moisturise stubborn, dry patches of skin such as elbows and knees 10. Use delicately under the eyes and on the outer corner to hydrate, smooth and reduce puffiness • Weleda Skin Food 75ml, RRP $22.90; 30ml RRP $13.90

WIN! WELEDA SKIN FOOD – EastLife has five 30ml tubes of skin food valued at $13.90 each to give away to lucky readers. To enter the draw visit www. eastlife.co.nz. Click on the competition link and complete the form. One entry per email address/ person; entries close August 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Ormiston Weight Loss Service Welcome to the Ormiston Weight Loss Service. Our service is intended to offer our community a surgical choice and clinical support, to assist in taking ownership of your health and moving forward to a greater place of wellness.

food-holding capacity of the stomach so the patient has a feeling of fullness after eating very little. Without hunger pangs, the person tends to lose interest in overeating and is more likely to stick to a low-kilojoule diet.

Bariatric Surgery assists in weight loss and may be recommended as a last resort when diet, exercise and medication have not been successful and if obesity related conditions such as heart disease, asthma, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea and type II diabetes have worsened, among other problems.

When you choose Ormiston Hospital Weight Loss Service for your surgery, you choose the most experienced surgeons, treating you in the wellestablished Ormiston Hospital.

The aim of the surgery is to reduce the

www.ormistonhospital.co.nz

We are dedicated to offering you a complete and comprehensive service with a fixed fee that will provide you with the best level of care through your journey to improved health.

Contact us today on 09 926 5821 or email kirstyp@ormistonhospital.co.nz FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE 125 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush, Auckland 2019 12181-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 43

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:22:42 p.m.

Is it time to change your exercise routine? The fitness industry is both dynamic and exciting… a marketers dream. There seems to be a new ‘Miracle Workout’ or ‘Fitness Fad’ promoted every five minutes. Most of us have set out to achieve an exercise-related goal but our motivation has wavered. Regular variations and new ideas are often required to maintain our enthusiasm. The important truth however is that exercise is dynamic. What is thrown at the body needs to be continually updated to promote change. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy the next offering you see on a late night infomercial; the fundamental principles of exercise stay the same. The key to success is changing what you are doing regularly. A common cry from regular exercisers

is that, “it never gets easier”. Unfortunately, I don’t have the magic bullet to help you on that score. It will never get easier (sorry)… but this is a good thing; it means your body will be forced to change. This is the nature of exercise. By design, we aim to push the body outside its comfort zone so that is adapts to these new demands. Regular changes to your exercise plan will help maintain your motivation and accelerate results. Let’s imagine that a personal trainer gives you the very best programme in the world, the ‘Miracle Workout’ you have been waiting for. In four weeks’ time, you will still need to change it. You will need a new ‘Best Programme in the World’. Our bodies adapt very quickly to new challenges and they adapt on many levels. We master the exercises and become very efficient at performing

them. At this point, even with regular changes in things such as the resistance you lift, or the repetitions you perform, your body will hit a plateau. Periodically, (about every 4 weeks), you need to flip your programme on its head. One of the biggest traps when it comes to exercise is doing what you have always done. The definition of madness is to do the same thing over and over again and expect a different result! Your body needs to be thrown back out of its comfort zone to perform new movements at different intensities. This is an ongoing process in which you continually build upon your improved fitness levels. Every athlete goes through this process and, believe me, you’ll understand that it never gets easier when you see an elite athlete train. They drip with sweat; gasp for

breathe and wish the workout was over just as we regular folk do. So, if you are not getting the same results from your workouts, or are bored with your exercise programme, I encourage you to seek out the personal trainer at your local gym and have a chat about small, regular changes that can be made to your programme to get you back on track and seeing some great results! – This article was submitted by the team at Jetts Fitness New Zealand.

Are you clued up on why to join? E X

NU T H H A Y 4.

S T I

L G

DOWN 1. Exercise makes you ----,---2. Maintain a ------ life

ACROSS 3. -------- is the key to good health 4. Good ---------; healthy eating 5. Jetts will make you -----

Now you have the answers, join with a friend and pay ZERO start up fees* Sign up now at www.jettsonline.co.nz Clubs in your area: Botany, Botany Junction, 44 | eastlife | august 2016 Highbrook, Highland Park and Howick *Terms and conditions apply, refer to www.jettsonline.co.nz/terms. Offer expires 31.08.2016.

eastlife august 2016.indd 44

www.eastlife.co.nz 02156-v7

29/07/2016 1:22:45 p.m.

Slice and spice ‘ For those who crave meals with a flavour bite, then Mr Todiwala’s Spice Box is the cookbook to give core ingredients such as meat, fish, poultry, seafood or vegetables a delectable lift.

An easy way to pepper your life with exciting flavours is to explore acclaimed chef Cyrus Todiwala’s glorious cookbook, Mr Todiwala’s Spice Box, in which he reveals his secrets to spicing up mealtimes.

Known for combining flavours, spices and ingredients in ways no other Indian chef has ever done before, Cyrus loves mixing Western dishes with Indian flavourings to create recipes that make innovative and delicious use of spices. Offering an entirely fresh look

at spices, he takes just 10 of his favourites and bases 120 recipes around them.

Using his special spice box and a selection of fresh ingredients, he conjures up an astonishing range of dishes such as Prawn & Crab Masala Omelette, Venison Kebabs, Garlic & Red Chilli Chicken, Hot Smoked Salmon Tikka and Saffron & Cardamom Crème Brûlée. Here we feature one delicious dish to spur foodies into the kitchen and in front of the stove!

WIN! MR TODIWALA’S SPICE BOX – Here hoping our featured recipe from Mr Todiwala’s Spice Box has readers salivating because we have a copy of this fascinating cookbook, published by Hachette (RRP $55), up for grabs. To enter the draw just visit the competitions page as www. eastlife.co.nz and fill in the appropriate form. One entry per person/email address. Entries close August 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Fresh raspberry, mustard, lime & cumin butter We serve a richer version of this butter with our ostrich steaks at the restaurant, but the simplified ingredients below will give you something equally delicious. Keep it in your freezer so that you have a last-minute enhancer when needed. To use, cut off slices to place on grilled steaks, fish or chicken, or dot over a baked dish or pie. As the butter melts, it releases a wonderful flavour.

ingredients:

METHOD:

Makes 250g

Put raspberries in a saucepan over a low heat and cook slowly, stirring often, for about 15-20 minutes, until well pulped and reduced by twothirds. Set aside to cool.

• 150g fresh raspberries • 3/4 tsp cumin seeds • 250g salted butter at room temperature • 1 tbsp English mustard • finely grated lime zest and juice from 1/2 lime

Meanwhile, toast the cumin seeds in a small, heavy-based frying pan over a medium heat until aromatic, then crush them as finely as possible in a mortar. Put the butter into a bowl, add the cumin and beat well with a wooden spoon. Beat in the mustard, then the lime zest and juice a bit at a time. Finally, gradually incorporate the raspberry coulis. Place an A4 sheet of baking parchment or clingfilm on a work surface with a long side nearest to you. Place 3-4 tablespoons of the butter on it in a row about 5cm (2in) from the near edge.

Extract reproduced from Mr Todiwala’s Spice Box, by Cyrus Todiwala with permission from Hachette NZ, RRP $55. Available where all good books are sold. www.eastlife.co.nz

Fold the parchment or film over it, then roll into a sausage shape. Twist the ends tightly to seal and place on a tray. Make as many more rolls as you can, then freeze. eastlife | august 2016 |

02156-v7

eastlife august 2016.indd 45

29/07/2016 1:22:49 p.m.

TR U

HH HH

ED IN OU T S

Park d n a l h g i H ntre e C g n i p Shop HH HH H

IT N MU

Convenience shopping at your doorstep

We are expanding! ➧ Opening September Cuffs Cafe – Bistro & Patisserie. Award winning chef, food & service. Another great addition to our 12 eateries

➧ Opening October Union Jacks – British Groceries & Frozen Foods

Dine with us at:

• Suzie’s Dumplings • Kitchenette Café • Bamboo Garden Café • Kowi Chicken • Malaysian Kitchen • Hiroba Sushi • Fong Mei Court • La Padella Italian Restaurant • Little Toyko • Sura Korean BBQ • Jabo Scoops • Highland Park Bakery

Also check out our many other retailers and services – two supermarkets, health food shop, organics, pharmacy, beauty therapy, florist, real estate, dry-cleaning, travel, banks, gifts and more.

Phone 09 535 8275 Highland Park Cnr Aviemore Dr & Pakuranga Rd www.eastlife.co.nz www.highlandparkshoppingcentre.co.nz

46 | eastlife | august 2016

13449

eastlife august 2016.indd 46

29/07/2016 1:22:50 p.m.

Culinary tricks up sleeve! Local foodies look set for some refreshing ‘off the cuff’ cuisine when a new restaurant opens in the heart of Highland Park Shopping Centre next month. HELEN PERRY discovered Cuff Cafe aims to reflect the professional air which exudes from an elegant shirt cuff together with the ‘real business’ sensed when cuffs are rolled back ready for a challenge. Having worked in European Michelinstarred restaurants, and sharpened his kitchen knives in the fine dining arena, one might think Eugene Sokolovski, would find settling to a small cafe in Auckland’s eastern suburbs somewhat difficult. Not so. The Moldavian-born chef has mixing bowls and rolling pin at the ready, eager to bring the cream of his patisserie crop to Highland Park along with a cosmopolitan menu reflecting flavours from the culinary march which ultimately brought him to New Zealand. Cuff Cafe – Bistro & Patisserie is set to open in September and Eugene promises that gateaux, pastries, tarts and sweet treats will be worth stopping in for.

‘

What’s more, the district can count itself lucky to have this much lauded chef in its midst. With a career that started in his mother’s and grandmother’s kitchens then took hold in Israel when, at 18, he immigrated there with his family, Eugene has since worked in Italy, Austria, Hungary, Sweden and Romania, his fluency in English, Russian and Hebrew helping him cross borders. Thirteen years ago he and his wife, Anna with 11 month old daughter, Veronica, visited New Zealand on holiday. “We had done some travelling around Asia but were keen to see a country little known in our part of the world,” Eugene explains. “We soon realised the little we had seen in a month just wasn’t enough; we wanted more, so we initiated moves to come here for longer, perhaps even permanently.” Before he knew it Eugene was wielding an egg slide at the British Isles Inn at Rothesay Bay on the North Shore. www.eastlife.co.nz

I remember one night I had cooked a meal (not from the menu) for myself and had just sat down in a corner of the restaurant when a chap came over, pointed at my dinner and said, ‘how much for that?’ I said, ‘put $20 in the till and you can have it.’ And he did! That was amazing to me.”

“This was completely different from anything I’d done before. It was real pub food but it was fun and I had so much fun in the two years I was there before getting residency. “I remember one night I had cooked a meal (not from the menu) for myself and had just sat down in a corner of the restaurant when a chap came over, pointed at my dinner and said, ‘how much for that?’ I said, ‘put $20 in the till and you can have it.’ And he did! That was amazing to me.” Once his residency was settled, Eugene started a new culinary journey in Auckland working across the city for the next eight years. Five of those were spent at The Abbey in Greenlane where he won the national Monteith’s Beer and Wild Food Challenge in 2009. That was his first Monteith’s win (we

Anna and Eugene Sokolovski.

Photo Wayne Martin

won’t count the many times he was a finalist or category winner) and it’s a credit to his creativity that in 2013 he again took out the top title while executive chef at the former Ribier Restaurant in Kumeu. When Ribier was sold last year, Eugene began thinking about a place of his own.

make polenta like my grandmother. Hers was the best! Tastebuds have keen memories, you know, and all of us can probably still recall favourite dishes from our youth that no one else seems able to replicate. I hope some of my dishes will make the same sort of impression.”

“For our five years at Ribier, my wife Anna and I worked shoulder to shoulder. We have both missed this closeness in our lives.

And once locals start tasting Eugene’s food they could be in for a few surprises. As well as his penchant for mouth-watering pastries he says the menu will encompass a meld of flavours including Middle Eastern style dishes and the likes of venison and lamb pie.

“We are still very much in love and very comfortable working together so Cuff will bring us back into the same space – me in the kitchen and Anna front of house as well as looking after the paperwork.” Furthermore, the couple agree that their daughter, now nearly 14, is already a good cook and also willing to help where she can. Perhaps, that’s not surprising. Not only has her dad won many cuisine awards and accolades, his sister is also a head chef in Auckland. “My mother and grandmother were “wonderful cooks”, too,” Eugene adds. “I’m a great chef but I can’t

Initially, Cuff (which will be fully licensed) will open from 8am until 4pm but, once underway, Eugene plans to remain open for dinner from Wednesday to Sundays. “We will have both counter food and menu meals,” he says. “I also want to make better use of the outdoor area, encouraging patrons to use it for relaxation and socialising with food (such as small plates) and drink in the mix. At the end of the day we hope foodies will discover we are different and will want to make Cuff a regular destination.” eastlife | august 2016 |

13449

eastlife august 2016.indd 47

29/07/2016 1:22:54 p.m.

FrenchOnion Soup Eugene Sokolovski, chef and owner of the new Cuff Cafe, Bistro and Patisserie set to open in Highland Park Shopping Centre early September, suggests this favourite French Onion Soup as a winter-warming pleaser.

Ingredients:

Method:

• 2kg onions, thinly sliced • 100g canola oil • 300ml white wine • 2 litres chicken stock • 100g standard flour, browned • 25g salt • 10g black peppercorns • 20g thyme • 5g bay leaves

In a large pot sauté onion until it is golden/brown. Add browned flour. Gradually add in white wine and chicken stock. Add thyme, black peppercorns and bay leaves. Simmer on lower heat for 15-20mins. Adjust seasoning. To serve add 20g croutons, 25g mozzarella cheese and a slice of rosemary bread per portion.

Makes 15 portions

The ultimate kitchen tool for healthy eating! Paderno Spiralizer ‘Zoodler’ 4 Blade

The spiral vegetable slicer is much more than a simple vegetable slicer: it is a unique kitchen tool that allows you to make different cuts very easily and quickly. No need to be a master chef: the result is always a success. IMAGINATIVE COOKING: The Zoodler allows you to create slices, spirals, spaghetti and noodles with vegetables to prepare imaginative and tasty dishes. VEGETABLES & KIDS: Healthy food meets fun for kids. A daily fun food experience and an ideal solution for teaching kids about a healthy diet.

New Zealand’s leading tableware & kitchenware specialist since 1981 www.thestudio.co.nz 5 Harold Street, Mt Eden, Auckland ph 09 638 8082 open 7 days Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.00 Sat & Sun 10.00 - 4.00

48 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 48

great parking right outside the door!

the studio OF TABLEWARE

13720

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:22:57 p.m.

WITH PAN FRIED VEGETABLES, o c u b o s s o Beef FRIED SHALLOT MASH & PAN JUS AJAY ZALTE – executive chef, Waipuna International Hotel and Conference Centre. Ajay is a Pakuranga resident and has worked in leading hotels and first class restaurants worldwide.

INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

• 2 kilo sliced beef shank (ossobuco) • 300g carrots • 200g onions • 300g celery • 300g leeks • 4 bay leaves • 10 sprigs thyme • 12 peppercorns • 1/2 cup tomato paste • 1 cup merlot or cabernet wine • 4 litres water or stock • 12 cloves garlic • 1/4 cup canola oil • 4 peeled Agria potatoes • 100g butter • 1/2 cup cream • 1 red capsicum, diced • 1 green capsicum, diced • 1 yellow capsicum, diced • 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced • 1/2 cup fried shallots • 8 basil leaves • Salt and pepper to taste

Seal the sliced beef shank in a hot pan with oil. Remove and keep aside.

Serves 4

Sauté carrots, onions, celery, leeks and eight garlic cloves until all are golden brown. Add tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, peppercorns and wine. Reduce. Add water or stock then add the seared ossobuco and cook on a simmer for two and half hours or until tender. When cooked, remove and keep hot. Strain the liquid and reduce to make a sauce, adjust seasoning. Boil water and add peeled potatoes with salt and cook until soft. Remove and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or through a sieve. Heat butter in a pot, add cream. Add the hot butter and cream to the mashed potatoes, stir with a spoon till fully incorporated and creamed. Add in fried shallots, salt and pepper to taste. Crush remaining four cloves of garlic and sauté with diced capsicum and tomatoes in a hot pan with oil. Serve the ossobuco hot with fried shallot mash, sauté vegetables and the sauce. Garnish with basil leaf.

• CHEF’S NOTE: Beef ossobuco (sliced shank with marrow) is available from most butchers on request. This is an excellent winter dish and can be enjoyed with any vegetables and potato preparation as per your liking.

58 Waipuna Rd, Mt Wellington. Phone 526 3000. Open 7 days – breakfast, lunch, dinner www.wellingtonsrestaurant.co.nz

Introducing Urban in East, Howick Offering a seasonal and exciting menu with a few twists on some old school favourites, great service and a passion for local & boutique produce • Quality and speciality coffees from boutique roastery Vivace in Christchurch • Family owned and operated Open 7 days, breakfast & lunch 121 Picton Street, Howick themanager@urbanineast.co.nz facebook.com/urbanineast 13764

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 49

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:23:01 p.m.

e l y t s n a i As Chicken Noodle Soup East may be east and west is west but thank God the twain did meet! This culinary creation is just one of the 100 best soup recipes by iconic Kiwi cooks, Simon and Alison Holst. Delicious meals don’t get much easier than this! It’s everything chicken soup should be too — warm, comforting and good for the soul.

Fish of the Month

scallops From Oceanz Seafood, The Hub, Botany Mid July each year marks the start of the scallop season in the North Island with the main commercial areas around Coromandel and Northland. Of course, the other main area for scallops in New Zealand is at the top of the South Island – Marlborough Sounds, Tasman Bay and Golden Bay. While this region has traditionally produced the majority of scallops, it has been closed this year in an attempt to allow the scallop population to rebuild. Scallops are found on sand, silt and mud from low tide level to around 90 metres. However, the majority of scallops are generally caught in depths of 10 to 25 metres. Bivalves with two hinged shells made of calcium carbonate, scallops grow relatively quickly reaching maturity at around five years of age. Scallops are able to swim by clapping their shells together which allows them to escape from predators such as starfish and octopus. Considered a delicacy, they are refined in both texture and flavour. They can be eaten in many different ways, are popular as an entree and are also used to complement mains. Like most seafood, it is important to not overcook scallops. Just sear for 30-60 seconds on each side and do not overload the pan when cooking.

50 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 50

INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups hot water • 2 Tbsp light soy sauce • 2 tsp sesame oil • 2 tsp chicken stock powder • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped • 2-3cm piece fresh ginger, chopped • 2 star anise, optional • 400-500g skinless, boneless chicken thighs • 400-500g Singapore or Hokkien noodles • 3 cups hot water • 1 medium carrot, julienned • 1-2 cups shredded cabbage (or 2–3 baby bok choy), roughly chopped For 3–4 servings

METHOD: Put the hot water in a large pot. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, stock powder, garlic, ginger and star anise (if using). Heat the mixture to boiling, then add the whole chicken thighs. Cover and simmer for 5–10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Lift the chicken from the pot and set aside until it is cool enough to handle. While the chicken cools, place the noodles in a large bowl and cover them with boiling water and leave them to soak for a few minutes before draining. Divide the drained noodles between serving bowls. Add the remaining water to the pot, then add the carrot and the cabbage or bok choy. Simmer for a few minutes longer or until the vegetables are tender. Slice cooked chicken and return to soup. Bring soup to a gentle boil, then ladle it into serving bowls, over noodles. Garnish with a sprinkling of chopped coriander leaves and/or spring onions and serve immediately.

‘

WI! 100 SOUP RECIPES – Sink into dishes (most often) served hot thanks to the talents of Simon and Alison Holst. Offering just what it says on the ‘tin’ this book features 100 of their best ever recipes. From traditional favourites (some with creative twists), such as Creamy Green Pea and Curried Pumpkin & Bacon, to more exotic creations, including Chicken & Chorizo Gumbo, this book makes a meal of sensational soups. To be in to win one of TWO copies, simply complete the form on the competitions tab at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address; entries close August 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

Reproduced from Everyday Easy 100 Soup Recipes by Simon & Alison Holst, published by Hyndman Publishing, RRP$34.99, available nationwide. www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:23:03 p.m.

Cast iron cooking results! and remains family run – the chief executive officer and president are great-grandsons of Joseph.

In this modern era of non stick pans – ceramic titanium, Teflon and more – the cast iron skillet not only holds its own but is a must have for leading chefs.

Lodge is the only remaining cookware foundry in America, its owners proud of their product’s performance with even heat distribution and heat retention making it a versatile cookware product for the stovetop (induction included), oven, grill, barbecue or campfire.

Although. seemingly old-fashioned, the dependable cast iron pan is a kitchen essential for many a domestic cook, its qualities well proven. For example, not only do cast iron skillets conduct heat beautifully, they can go from stovetop to oven (any temperature) with no problem. Importantly, they don’t scratch and will last for decades. In fact, if properly seasoned and cared for, a quality cast iron pan should be non stick and easy to clean. But, perhaps, the best thing about cast iron pans is that they cook food as it should be cooked. Yes, it is possible to create restaurant-quality, homemade meals especially those that need the perfect amount of browning. So, with, US firm Lodge Manufacturing Co celebrating 120

years of cast iron cookware, it seems appropriate to salute the occasion. Still proudly made in its place of origin in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, Lodge cast iron remains largely unchanged to this day. A company as durable as the skillets it makes, Lodge Manufacturing was founded in 1896 by Joseph Lodge

Some would even see Lodge cast iron as being the original ‘green pan’ offering a chemical-free cooking option which is durable and provides an easy cooking surface thanks to the introduction of factory-seasoning, a process pioneered by Lodge using natural vegetable oil. Interestingly, Lodge cast iron pans are a particular favourite of Kiwi chef and restaurateur, Al Brown who says: “Lodge cast iron equipment is the first and only real original non-stick cookware. It takes a beating, gets better with age and will never ever let you down.”

WIN! lodge cast iron limited edition skillet To celebrate 120 years, Lodge has produced a special limited edition, customised anniversary skillet featuring a special imprinted base for the New Zealand market. Now available it can be found at selected quality kitchen and homewares stores throughout the country but, thanks to Lodge, we have a 26cm, Lodge Cast Iron Limited Edition Skillet (valued at $82.50) up for grabs. To enter see competition tab at www.eastlife. co.nz and complete the appropriate form. One entry per person/ email address; entries close August 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Opening 16 August

For listings contact Dean on 021 654 542 or dean@lonestarbotany.co.nz

Botany Town Centre, First floor, opposite Hoyts www.lonestar.co.nz 13722

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 51

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:23:08 p.m.

‘

WIN! FIESTA BULBs POTATO SEED PACKS! Dig into this! Thanks to Fiesta Bulbs, five lucky readers can each win a pack of 10 new Fiesta seed potatoes. Here’s your chance for a taste of Europe and all you have to do to be in the draw is visit the competitions link at www.eastlife.co.nz and fill in the appropriate form. One entry per person/email address, entries drawn August 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

Tasty new spuds

For the chips to be up in summer it’s time to put the spuds in now! And what better time than following Fiesta Bulbs launch of 10 tasty European variety potatoes. Just added to its seed potato range, the new selections contain 10 varieties of early, main and late season cropping, certified seed potatoes set to rival old varieties in both taste and harvest. Some of the new varieties include Anuschka (early season), Nectar (early season), Jelly (main crop),

to rival old!

Kikko (late season) and Cristina (main crop), to name a few. Fiesta Bulbs managing director, John Harrison says: “We have selected varieties that produce higher quality, more disease resistant potatoes with greater yields.

of seed potatoes – by the number of seed potatoes rather than the weight. Each pack has 10 even sized, certified seed potatoes. No more having to guess the number of potatoes in a bag or wondering how many growing bags will be needed.

“We know Kiwis have their favourites but these new potatoes are just as easy to grow and offer a wider range of taste options.”

A staple part of Kiwi diets for generations, potatoes are high in fibre, rich in vitamin B and C, and are surprisingly packed with more protein and iron than any other vegetable!

Fiesta has also taken an innovative approach to selling this new selection

• See tips on growing new Fiesta Potatoes on page 64

together. Pile back into potatoes, drizzle with extra olive oil and return to the oven for 20 minutes or until golden.

vinegar, Worcestershire sauce and 1/2 cup olive oil in a bowl. Whisk together to form a sauce, then add the basil or parsley and season with salt and pepper. Serve the potatoes with the sauce.

Stuffed Baked Potatoes Potato gurus usually know a thing or two about cooking them. Nevertheless, here is one favourite family recipe from Fiesta Bulbs for tasty, stuffed baked potatoes for you to try!

INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

• 6 medium sized potatoes • 30g unsalted butter • 2/3 cup crème fraiche • 4 tbsp grated parmesan cheese • 1/2 cup chopped ham or bacon • 3 shallots/spring onions finely chopped • 3 tomatoes, peeled, seeded, chopped • 1/2 cup olive oil • 4 tbsp tomato sauce • 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce • 3 fresh basil leaves finely chopped

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Wash the potatoes well, then dry and place on a baking tray. Place in middle of the oven and roast for 1 hour.

52 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 52

Remove from oven and cut a small slice off the top of each potato. Scoop out the flesh and place in a bowl with the butter, half the creme fraiche, parmesan, ham, shallots and half the chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper and mix

Meanwhile, combine the tomato sauce, remaining creme fraiche,

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:27:58 p.m.

Taste

Try our latest flavours of the month and experience a range of new products with a real taste difference. EastLife is always on the lookout for new products to tantalise the tastebuds of our readers.

Thai this on for size

Got to pick up a pita or two

When people ‘tie one on’, strange things can happen, but Thai-ing one on is something else again! Although Thailand may not be as well known for producing world class wines as France, Australia or New Zealand, Asian Fusion cuisine has inspired what could well be a match made in the vineyard. Beginning with cuttings imported from France, Thai sommelier Anong Klinyoo developed award-winning wines designed to complement and enhance the flavours of Asian fusion dishes. PB Valley – Khao Yai chenin blanc (RRP $48), rosé ($48), and shiraz cabernet sauvignon blend ($120) varieties are now available online through a private buyers club.

Everyday Lebanese Pita Bread was bound to attract attention. No matter how much gluten-free fanciers may have tried, they couldn’t keep these pita breads under ‘wraps’. Offering the perfect way to bundle up quick and easy, healthy snacks, these new additions to Gluten Freedom’s range can accommodate almost anything the heart (or taste buds) desire, from falafel with hummus, to salad or cold meats. Alternatively, they make for light and luscious bases for homemade pizzas. Gluten Freedom pita breads are available ($6.99 per pack) from specialty food stores nationwide.

Hog heaven for bacon lovers Bringing home the bacon has never been easier thanks to an innovative Kiwi company from the Bay of Plenty. Since Mike Jeffries from The Big Smoke BBQ Co developed his spreadable bacon jam (perfect on toasties, sandwiches or burgers), orders have run hot! While ham fans from the real big smoke of Auckland will need to wait to purchase this product in stores, it can be obtained north of the bridge from 4 Seasons North Shore, or ordered via thebigsmokebbq.co.nz.

NATURALLY BREWED TO BE NUDE BEER FACTS LAID BARE Mac’s beer is receiving a dressing down (of sorts) by dressing up in its birthday suit and letting it all hang out. To celebrate 35 years of beers (at least officially) the popular brand has been celebrating a ‘hoppy’ birthday recently, following the release of its Mac’s Birthday Suit. Available (RRP $14.99 per four pack), this nude brew boasts a whopping... 7.6% ABV. It’s now joined the permanent Mac’s range.

Winter might not be the time to strip bare but there’s nothing rude about a new nude on the block – nakd by name and naked by nature, is a cheeky new range of New Zealand artesian water making a big splash. Perfect for the gym or morning walk, as a sparkling accompaniment to your coffee, or enjoyed with dinner, nakd is naturally stripped and organically enriched to leave only what matters. Rich in revitalising minerals like silica, superior purity and a balanced alkalinity, nakd is available in a 750ml still glass bottle, a 750ml sparkling glass bottle and 500ml still PET bottles. Find it at selected supermarkets, cafes and restaurants across NZ ( 750 ml still and sparkling RRP $4.50, 500ml still RRP $2.99).

STAMPING THE SEAL ON GOOD HEALTH Come winter a store of supplements are not to be sniffed at – rather they can do a good job of keeping the sniffles at bay! And Red Seal knows only too well that antioxidant-rich Vitamin C provides natural immunity support to help strengthen the body’s defences and aid healing. This year Red Seal has added two new fruit flavours to its range – New Zealand Blackcurrant Vitamin C and Strawberry and Echinacea Vitamin C. Red Seal also offers the traditional Orange Vitamin C in a range of strengths. The full Vitamin C range includes: Vitamin C with New Zealand Blackcurrant (500mg RRP $13.75), Vitamin C with Echinacea Strawberry Chewable (500mg RRP $10.98), Vitamin C Chewable (250mg RRP $8.05), Vitamin C Chewable (500mg RRP $13.75). Available at supermarkets nationwide. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 53

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:58:07 p.m.

54 | eastlife | august 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz 02265-v7

eastlife august 2016.indd 54

29/07/2016 1:23:21 p.m.

dining Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$

THAI

Restaurant

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

PALDO KOREAN BUFFET

A local, family-owned and run establishment since 1993, Rossini Italian Restaurant in Howick prides itself on traditional Italian fare served in cosy, warm surroundings. Family-style meals – hearty, rustic and full of flavour. Check out this well-loved favourite offering lively music, friendly service and excellent food. Affordably priced and BYO, Rossini is perfect for a casual week night meal or for that special occasion. Available for functions 7 days, lunch and dinner.

Your favourite Thai restaurant since 1998. After 18 successful years in the heart of Howick, Benjarong is a household name in the east, consistently maintaining its tradition of menu, service and decor excellence.

Adventuresome foodies with a taste for Asia will want to explore bustling Paldo Korean Buffet. Offering a sumptuous banquet of prepared hot and cold dishes encompassing a host of delicious flavours from mild to spicy, it’s all about balance and variety with a touch of tradition and a good dash of contemporary style – discover new taste sensations!

• 20% Off YOUR BILL ON pRESENTATION Of ThIS ADvERT Up TO $50 vALUE

• OPEN SEVEN DAYS – Dinner, $28 pp; lunch, $18 pp; children under two years, free; 2-10 years, their age plus $4.90. • AVAILABLE FOR FUNCTIONS

87 Picton Street, Howick. Ph 533 9568. Lunch Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 4.30pm till late www.benjarong.co.nz

7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, howick. ph 537 5554. Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-11.00pm

LICENSED • BYO

Dedicated foodies will love this Howick jewel which is committed to ensuring customers experience the authentic taste of Thailand, with many contemporary flavours from their homeland to select from.

LICENSED • BYOW

298 Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood. Ph 273 9797. Open 7 days, lunch 11.30-2pm, dinner 5.30pm-late www.paldo.co.nz • Find us on facebook

LICENSED

OCEANZ SEAFOOD BOTANY

INDIaN aCCENt rEStauraNt & Bar

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

From our boats to your plates – At Oceanz we pride ourselves on the consistency and freshness of our seafood and on the awardwinning takeaways we have been serving our customers for more than 10 years.

Indian Accent has scoured India for the best cuisine and now serves up an eclectic range of dishes. The talented team has devised a fascinating menu ranging from dishes once enjoyed by Moghul kings to Indo-Chinese fusion delights. Offering a simple yet cleverly refined culinary style, even the most wellknown dishes encompass a delightful twist.

There’s nothing Szimpla than dropping in at a popular gastro bar for a taste of great food and atmosphere. Stop and linger before or after a flight, and revel in the magic of Szimpla’s beautiful Balinese courtyard and contemporary decor. Close to accommodation and the airport; forget the hassle, just sit back, relax and enjoy the Szimplicity. Weekend brunches from 10am.

• LuNCH SPECIaL – from $12.90, 7 days • HaPPY HOur Mon-Thur 5-6pm – all mains $14.90

• fuNCTION SPACE AvAILABLE fOR hIRE • kIwI CRAfT BREwS ON TAP • yuMMy kIDS MENu AvAILABLE

• CHECK OUT OUR MOST POPULAR TAKEAWAY – the Skippers Meal, featuring two pieces of fish, one serve of chips and two squid rings for only $11.50!

1/451 Ti Rakau Drive, The Hub, Botany. Ph 271 4880 Open Sun-Thurs 9am-7pm, Fri-Sat 9am-7.30pm www.oceanz.co.nz

$ www.eastlife.co.nz

5/308 te Irirangi Drive, Botany South. Ph 09 272 2322. Open 7 days. Lunch 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner from 5pm www.indianaccent.co.nz

LICENSED • BYOW

2 Leonard Isitt Dr, Auckland Airport. Ph 215 1220. Open 7 days 10am-late. info@szimpla.co.nz • www.szimpla.co.nz

LICENSED

$ eastlife | august 2016 |

02265-v7

eastlife august 2016.indd 55

29/07/2016 1:23:22 p.m.

MY Favourit e Thing

As a director of Total Focus Property Ltd in Howick, Leigh Roy well knows selling houses is a seven day job.

A real estate agent for 20 years, she and husband Greg, who is the company’s principal, opened Total Focus 10 years ago and since then have seen the business become an integral part of Howick and surrounds. Leigh’s job – plus a tendency to engage with less fortunate people who have fallen through society’s cracks – keep her on the go but over the years she has found time to indulge her fascination for more than ordinary collectables. From her eclectic cache, EastLife asked Leigh to name her favourite thing and though she came up with one special little book, she could not help but mention a range of items that have taken her fancy over the years. Here’s what she told us: Trying to choose one or even two favourite things from my personal horde is a difficult task. I’m a bit of a magpie; I collect items that some might consider a little odd, and,

56 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 56

perhaps, that sums me up, too!

However, all my treasures have meanings that make me smile and are very dear to me. A few years ago I stumbled across a particularly beautiful book called, Just Above the Mantelpiece, by Wayne Hemmingway, and so began, in earnest, a journey which already had its beginnings in my fascination of 1960’s artist, Joseph H Lynch. After acquiring the Hemmingway book my passion for quirky items accelerated but, first, a look at Joseph Henry Lynch (born October 28, 1911, died January 16, 1989). He was a British artist, better known under his signature of J.H. Lynch and many readers, if confronted with his work today, would instantly recognise his mass reproduced paintings of sultry women. In particular, the sensual, Tina, made him one of the protagonists of mass market art and his works are now collector’s pieces. Well-preserved prints are getting harder and harder to find. Even faded prints are quickly

‘

There is something about artworks from this decade that makes one step back into the comfort of the way it used to be. The problem is I have run out of wall space so I’m constantly re-arranging my walls. Aside from these yesteryear prints I have another passion, or rather, several. I collect old torsos and mannequins, vintage jewellery, fountain pens, board games and retro toys, some of which have really no value except to me.

I am not sure just how many are still in circulation as, I understand, that prior to his death in 1989, he destroyed many of them.

My latest find was a delightful magazine-style book put out by Coca Cola under the cunning disguise of How to Make Flower Arrangements, by Laura Lee Burroughs, published in 1942. I’m still amazed at how effectively a soft drink company has managed to brainwash a greater part of the world – but the book is a brilliant find none the less.

Being a child of the 60’s, I have collected examples of other works by artists of this era – Ward, Tretikoff and Bragolin, as well as a collection of nudes from various artists.

So, you can see how hard it is for me to say, ‘this is my all time favourite’. There just isn’t one but many. However, I can say that collecting really is a favourite pastime!

snapped up, such is his following. Over time, I’ve managed to secure eight framed prints and I’m still looking for more.

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:23:22 p.m.

Chairs for the royal rear As long as her mother-in-law reigns, Kate remains a lady in waiting. However, despite Brexit, little Britain’s former European bedfellows have kindly provided a solution for Ms Middleton by designing her a throne for her very own! Inspired by the Duchess of Cambridge, the ‘Kate’ chair by Duquesa & Malvada has been designed to convey femininity, grace and delicacy through its golden feet and velvet fabric in soft colours. To our knowledge, Kate is yet to set her personality (or posterior) down on this chair, ‘butt’ we bet she’d like to! Duquesa & Malvada’s tag line is ‘Design to Die For’; when this does happen to one or two of Kate’s rellies, this chair could well be fit for a queen.

MASSIVE

FURNITURE OUTLET

SALE!

COLLECTIONS: DINING FURNITURE | LOUNGE FURNITURE BEDROOM FURNITURE | STUDY FURNITURE INTERIOR ACCESSORIES

LE A S E C N A R A E L C S L E FLOOR MOD STOREWIDE 15-60% OFF

PAVING // SCHIST // RETAINING FIREPLACES // BBQ’S // STONES Buy DIRECT and SAVE! Shop from the comfort of your own home, place your order 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, a smart way to order, no time wasting, no queues, no traffic jams!

Delivery Guaranteed. NZ’s Trusted Landscape Supplier. Beautiful Landscape Solutions. Huge Range.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 57

info@landscapesolutionsdirect.nz

www.urbanointeriors.co.nz

landscapesolutionsdirect.nz Massive sale is on selected products. Be quick - while stocks last!

SOLUTIONS DIRECT eastlife | august 2016 |

13389

RBAN INTERIORS

0800 70 80 99 00708-v6

6 Polaris Place, East Tamaki. Ph 272 9165 Open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday closed

29/07/2016 1:23:25 p.m.

French Style Furniture

Let us create something special for you The team at Domani have been working with solid surfaces for over 25 years and are specialists in both commercial and residential work with no job too big or too small. We specialise in custom manufacturing to any size, shape and colour. We work with only the best brands such as Samsung Staron solid surface, Kalon solid surface, Domani solid surface, Accura engineered stone, Silestone and Eurostone. At Domani, we have the unique ability to create custom colours in house. We can replicate virtually any colour you bring in to us so if one of the many colour choices from our suppliers does not suit, we can make you the colour you desire. Come and talk to the Domani team at our showroom and let us create something special for you.

Buy direct from the importer 12 Ron Driver Place, East Tamaki. Open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 11am-4pm. Ph 09 273 8985. www.homeabout.co.nz www.trademe.co.nz/stores/homeabout

5 Rylock Pl, Pakuranga. Phone 576 7241. www.domanibenchtops.co.nz 12955

13196

Factory Showroom 54D Sir William Ave, East Tamaki. Phone: (09) 274 6471. E-mail: info@dlcabinetmaking.co.nz www.dlcabinetmaking.co.nz

QUALITY HAND CRAFTED KITCHENS

CUSTOM MADE TO MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS

QUALITY ASSURED PRODUCTS

COMPLETE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALLATION 12920-v2

58 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 58

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:23:28 p.m.

Colourful spring splash Last month the spring colour forecast from Dulux Colour Trends revealed interiors would be influenced by the ‘60s and ‘70s with a surprising mix of hues comprising shades of blue and green, decadent browns and charcoals as well as light pink, hot red and crisp white.

This month creative consultant and stylist for Dulux, Bree Leech presents style tips for the upcoming spring. • Pink has become an interior staple this year. Lean towards mauve, pair it with clashing colour and nonconventional furniture pieces to give it an edge. • Energise the space with striking graphic features such as simple lines and shapes that reflect retro influences from the post-modern era. • White keeps the look fresh and provides a reference point for the colour combinations. • Choose furniture in sculptural shapes such as mismatched bedside tables. • Break hard lines by introducing plant life. Take inspiration from plants that were popular in the ‘60s and ‘70s that climb and drape or have interesting leaf shapes.

O O BU FF N KS

• Deep Sapphire: A dreamy and deep sea blue / green that is perfect for a casual space or to add an essence of energy and impact. Deep Sapphire is also ideal in a study, a bedroom or even an outdoor room. • Mt Victoria: Bright and refreshing, this bluish green is elegant and will stand out against a backdrop of whites and neutrals. Perfect for casual living spaces or to make an impact in any room. • Colombo Street: Vibrant and daring, this striking red will create a dramatic mood. Colombo Street works especially well in entrances, foyers, formal living areas and hallways. • Mayor Island: An ‘almost black’ with a very slight deep brown undertone, this colour can be used in any space within the home to create a dramatic feel with a dark backdrop. • Titi Islands: A soft and subtle pink with a slightly muted plum undertone, this colour is quite versatile and can be schemed with many other colours of similar shades. It contrasts well with stronger hues.

• Don’t embellish too much. The layers in this look are created with clean lines, shapes and colour. There’s no need to add too many textures or soften the styling.

spring colour trends FROM DULUX:

• Clay Play: A decadent warm brown with a slightly red undertone, this luxurious brown is perfect for formal spaces as well as rooms you would like to warm up and create a cosy ambience. Scheme with lighter, warmer colours or contrast against warm whites with a pop of brighter colour.

• Southern Alps: This crisp, elegant white is very flexible to scheme alongside both bold and subtle shades. Perfect for a blank canvas, this white is bright and airy. For more colour or painting advice, view the Dulux ‘how to projects’ online www.dulux.co.nz

Let me sleep on it!

EVEN IN SLUMBER ONE CAN BE STYLISH SLEEPYboy $1285 $1092

BUNKboy with Shelves $4250

$3612

SLEEPYboy n Sto $2465 $2095

BUNKboy + 2 Drawers $4385 $3727 SALE ENDS AUGUST 31 • SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

DESIGNED AND MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 59

0800 MELUKA • INFO@MELUKA.CO.NZ

983 MT EDEN RD THREE KINGS 13A LINK DR NORTH SHORE 501 TI RAKAU DR BOTANY 4/683 CAMERON RD TAURANGA

11798-v7

Furniture. Simply.

MELUKA.CO.NZ

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:23:32 p.m.

THE

AGENTS

Special Agents 003 IAN BOSWELL, MARK VAN ETTEN & NICOLETTE HALE RESIDENTIAL SALES, BEACHLANDS

Ian 027 285 9314, i.boswell@barfoot.co.nz Mark 027 523 2245, mark.vanetten@barfoot.co.nz Nicolette 027 702 9157, n.hale@barfoot.co.nz www.specialagents003.co.nz This vibrant team puts the fun back into real estate while also achieving outstanding sales results. Now is your time to take advantage of the fantastic service they provide!

42 Wakelin Rd, Beachlands www.barfoot.co.nz

Leigh & greg roy

AREINZ

Principal and Owners

P: 09 538 0151 M: Greg 0274 966 966 M: Leigh 021 646 565 Your Independent Local Specialists – Leigh & Greg Roy With a combined 40 years’ experience selling real estate in the area, you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Providing good old fashioned service with outstanding results and never losing sight of who it is that we are working for is the absolute foundation of our business. Call us if you simply want advice, or are looking to buy or sell your home.

111 Picton St, Howick. www.tfproperty.co.nz

Rachael meyeR

tina waters

LICENSED SALESPERSON

P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com

P: 09 261 3580 M: 021 935 800 e: tina.waters@harcourts.co.nz w: tinawaters.harcourts.co.nz

If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call. “Thanks for thinking outside the box and making us consider options we may not have on our own. I trusted you throughout the process and always thought you had our best interests at heart.” Theodora – Bucklands Beach

Living in Dannemora has built my personal knowledge of the region and I have exceptional experience with real estate in Howick, Bucklands Beach and other East Auckland suburbs. Marketing high profile properties out of our Botany Town Centre office is a joy. I am driven to achieve the best for my clients, especially when I can see little improvements that make a big difference to the sales potential of a home.

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

12 Uxbridge Rd, Howick. www.raywhite.co.nz

60 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 60

Before the makeover – areas in need of repair. See next month for ‘after’ images.

SPEND MONEY TO MAKE MONEY – HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE? – PART ONE This month JANE WILSHER of Elite Property Management presents part one in a two-part article on transforming a neglected rental into a top returning star. This month I want to again share an example of how spending money on an investment property can be a winwin situation. Earlier this year, a retired couple visited wanting advice and help regarding the management of their son’s property. His four-bedroom Highland Park home had been rented for about 10 years. Much to his parent’s dismay, when their son left the country he also left the responsibility of managing his property to them. Over the years, the condition of the home had significantly declined and was no longer attracting quality tenants. Instead of the weekly rent going up, it was going down. By the time I saw the house it was really quite disgusting. There was an active vermin problem, the place was infested with fleas and the tenants’ dog was allowed to urinate on the dining room carpet.

The owner had hoped for a quick clean up but the house was now a health hazard. The carpet needed removing before the house could be fumigated and the vermin dealt with. The kitchen was beyond saving; it was filthy and badly damaged. Over the years, tenants had been allowed to decorate at will so the house was poorly painted with different colours in several rooms. Many walls needed substantial repair. The bathrooms had survived but needed deep cleaning and redecorating. The stained and damaged vinyl needed replacing. Both the property owner and his parents were somewhat wary of all the repairs I suggested but after much discussion I was given the go ahead to get the project underway. Read next month’s column to discover how much the owners spent, the work achieved and the value added.

Are you a landlord short on time? Heading overseas? Or just over dealing with tenants? We are your local specialist property managers based in Howick. Dedicated to finding quality tenants, maintaining your properties and getting you the best return on your investment. 128 Picton Street, Howick. Phone 09 535 0911 www.eliteproperty.co.nz Email: jane@eliteproperty.co.nz or info@eliteproperty.co.nz

00973

Botany Town Centre, Dannemora. www.harcourts.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:23:41 p.m.

Where to start – what first? This month EastLife features the second in a series from G.J. Gardner Homes on building the dream home. Here the focus is on who to first consult when starting a build project.

Do I first find land, or an architect, or a builder, or do I go to the bank, or a real estate agent – what first? Answer: Find the right builder Why? A good builder can help in all these individual areas with insightful advice. Because builders live and breathe these things everyday, they immediately see things that can greatly affect a build that you don’t know to think about. An architect is often not needed, as a good builder can customise or design and build. You may even be saved going to a bank, as builders can have access to preferred finance companies.

Find the right builder For example, G.J. Gardner Homes franchisees have a preferred supplier relationship with Onion Home Loans, which provides an independent service for you. Onion is a specialist in construction finance and will deal directly with the banks on your behalf.

Types of homes and budget • Help with finding the right land and advise you on any issues with sites you like that can reduce or dramatically increase the cost of the finished project/build.

A good building company can:

• In most instances, the cost of an architect can be removed. Otherwise they can advise on a good local architect if required.

• Instantly give you an idea of the real cost to build different types and sizes of homes.

• Provide a good range of plans to inspire your imagination and provide ideas.

Answering all the questions • Help with finance by providing an idea of what mortgage payments could be, and connect you with suitable finance providers. • Answer all your questions, and even ones you didn’t know to ask. • Importantly, make you feel confident you will get the home you set out to achieve by enabling you to deal directly with the team building your home.

12031-v2

MANUKAU/EAST AUCKLAND OFFICE 49F Springs Road, East Tamaki. OPEN Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 61

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:23:40 p.m.

out of europe

Turning to tables MARBLE-OUS CREATIONS: What did Elton John say to his Italian-American friend when handing him a cold drink on a hot day? Use a coaster, Tony Danza! Okay so he probably didn’t, but you’d forgive anyone with a high-end table – such as these from Italian designer, Cupioli – for taking good care of their furniture. The techniques at play in Cupioli’s work follow 17th and 18th century scagliola, which uses a variety of materials (such as marble or slate) which are then inlaid and decorated with coloured designs. Scagliolisti artisans experienced a resurgence in popularity as Italy rebuilt following the Second World War, their work appearing on many items. While these tables may not be to

everyone’s taste – and they’d be more at home in a mansion than an Auckland apartment – grand designs in furniture don’t come much grander than this! Although Cupioli products are not available in New Zealand, they can be ordered direct from the manufacturer – see cupioli.com for details.

Design | Manufacture | Installation

Road Harris

Ruby

Drive

ale

Corro

illiam

angi Dr ive

gs Ro

3ye0ars 1 9 8

We also manufacture ✓ Laundry Units ✓ Vanities ✓ Entertainment Units ✓ Shelving & Storage Units ✓ Counters ✓ Desks ✓ Plus lots more...

www.eastlife.co.nz

Te Irir

Baker

by Drive

Lady Ru

Sprin

nA ve

East Tamaki

rwy

Sir W

62 | eastlife | august 2016

fin Drive

Ave

LISH

ESTA

Ave illiam Sir W

gs Roa d

Lady

Sprin

Mon-Thurs 7.30am-5pm; Fri 7.30am-4pm; Sat by appt

Factory & Showroom, Unit J, 4 Lady Ruby Dr, East Tamaki. Ph 274 8900

• Top quality products • 3D design • Latest technology • Latest trends • Over 30 years experience • Manufacture and install • Manufacture to your plans

Phone 09 274 8900 www.superiorkitchens.co.nz

11795-v7

Superior KITCHENS Qu ality Custom Built Kitchens a nd Ca binets

Drive

nt ce

Ac ive

eastlife august 2016.indd 62

i Road

Tamak

East

29/07/2016 1:23:43 p.m.

Supply tightens ‘ Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on the local real estate market happenings.

Mixed rent market

Sales volumes for the month were down again from the last three months to 163 sales with the average days to sell also dropping to 30 days.”

REINZ figures just released for June show that our local area, Eastern Beaches, had no change in the median from May’s record high of $1,100,000 – a first indication that perhaps the market is finally losing some momentum? Time will tell.

The average weekly rent for a three bedroom home in Auckland during the April to June 2016 quarter was $514, up less than 1% on last quarter and 4.8% on the same quarter in 2015.

Looking back to June last year we saw the median go over the $900,000 mark for the first time hitting $922,500, and in June 2014 the median was a very much more modest $725,500 – the lowest median recorded for 2014.

Barfoot & Thompson director, Kiri Barfoot says three bedroom rentals make up around 40% of his company’s managed properties making them a good measure of the market. “Other property categories generally follow the same trend, albeit at lower or higher price points depending on the number of bedrooms.”

So we are 19% up on June 2015 and 51% up on June 2014. Sales volumes for the month were down again from the last three months to 163 sales with the average days to sell also dropping to 30 days. The situation with available properties is tightening; realestate. co.nz currently shows there are 238 properties for sale in the Eastern Beaches area. This number is continuing its downward trend for the same week in the previous three months of 256, down from 272, and 349 in April. Auckland overall has hit a new high median of $821,000, up from May’s $805,000 and only just over the last record high of $820,000 set in March this year. Auckland’s prices have increased 85% over the past four years.

With homelessness, housing shortages and rents in the news of late, it should be noted that despite rents continuing to increase by about 5% year on year – and the average weekly rent for a threebedroom Auckland home over $500 per week – Auckland house prices are not flowing through directly into the rental market according to real estate company, Barfoot and Thompson.

Nationally, the median price eased slightly to $500,000 down 1% from May’s $506,000. However, four regions, apart from Auckland, achieved new record high median sale prices for the month.

regions seeing falls of greater than 50%. Auckland, Wellington and Hawke’s Bay each have less than 10 weeks supply available. If it’s too hard to buy again people won’t sell, and that’s fair enough.

The Waikato/Bay of Plenty region recorded its fifth record median sale price for 2016, hitting $438,000. Northland recorded a new record median of $360,000, while Otago reached $295,000 and Central Otago Lakes hit $730,050. The national median at $500,000 still represents an 11% increase from the same month last year.

As I write this, the Reserve Bank has just announced its proposed new LVR of 60% for investors and 80% for owner occupiers. One has to question, that with record immigration, has the right thing been targeted here?

Our local lack of listings is a problem shared across the nation. REINZ figures show stocks are falling rapidly nationwide with a 40% decline in properties available for sale year-on-year and six

We are growing our economy on immigration so, is all growth good growth? Or are we adding more branches to an already overloaded trunk and root system? Please feel free to contact me anytime on 0274966966 to discuss your property needs.

One bedroom homes averaged $335 per week (up 5% from $319, April to June quarter 2015), and two bedrooms $428 (up 6.2% from $403). Four-bedroom homes brought in $648 (up 4.2% from $622) and five plus bedroom homes averaged $801 (up 4.8% from $764). The central Auckland apartment market remains the most expensive for smaller properties of one, two or three bedrooms, and the Eastern suburbs maintains position as the most expensive for four or more bedrooms. Looking at rental data from the first two quarters of this year compared to the last two quarters of 2015 (January to June 2016 and July to December 2015), three suburbs broke the mould with three bedroom rental averages increasing 11% or more – Mt Albert, up 14.7%, Parnell, up 11.7% and Sandringham, up 11.6%.

Metalcraft Roofing...Proud to be NZ Made. Metalcraft Roofing...Proud to be NZ Made. ®

Call our Auckland branch now...

We can supply and install a wide selection of Metalcraft Roofing...Proud to onbe NZ Made Call our Auckland branch now... roofing profiles in COLORSTEEL® For a free, no obligation quote anyENDURA® one of our and

We can supply and install a range wideofMAXX®. selection of steel products ... COLORSTEEL® extensive roofing and other roofing profiles in COLORSTEEL® ENDURA® Call our Auckland branch now... For a free, no obligation quote on any one of our and • Longrun Roofing profiles COLORSTEEL® MAXX®. extensive range of roofing other steel products ...roofing and For a free, no obligation quote onand any one of our extensive range of

• Coloursteel fencing systems • Rainwater System solutions • Range of•Metal Tiles fencing systems •• Longrun Roofing profiles Longrun roofing profiles Coloursteel Rainwater system solutions •• Coloursteel fencing systems • Range of metal tiles We are proud to be NZ made and proud to use trusted •We Rainwater solutions are proud toSystem be NZ made and proud to use trusted steelCOLORSTEEL® from New Zealand steel from New Zealand Steel: ENDURA® COLORSTEEL® ENDURA® COLORSTEEL® MAXX®. •Steel: Range of Metal Tiles and and COLORSTEEL® MAXX®. other steel products...

T: 09We 273 2820 are NZ made and proud to use trusted T: 09proud 273to be 2820 steel from NewEast Zealand 26Drive Trugood Drive, Tamaki Steel: 26 Trugood EastTamaki www.metalcraftgroup.co.nz www.metalcraftgroup.co.nz and COLORSTEEL® MAXX®.

T: 09 273 2820

www.eastlife.co.nz

STONEWOODSAUCKLAND130MM76MM12062016.indd 1

COLORSTEEL® ENDURA® 12939

eastlife | august 2016 | 12/05/2016 5:32:59 p.m.

26 Trugood Drive EastTamaki www.metalcraftgroup.co.nz eastlife august 2016.indd 63

29/07/2016 1:23:47 p.m.

Top tips

for growing Fiesta Bulb new seed potatoes With the release of 10 new European seed potato varieties to catch the eye of spud lovers, Fiesta Bulbs offers the following growing tips: • Purchase Fiesta seed potatoes up to 6 weeks before planting out to allow them to begin to sprout. Remove packaging and place them in a warm, dry, airy position to grow and sprout. Ensure they have a reasonable amount of light. Leave them to produce shoots between 2-4cm long. • Select a sunny, free-draining site reasonably sheltered from strong winds. Prepare soil by mixing in organic matter. Also add organic fertilisers such as “Blood and Bone”. Dig a trench about 15cm deep and place seed potatoes approximately 25cm apart, space trenches 80cm apart. Lay potatoes with the shoots pointing upwards and carefully cover back over with soil without damaging the shoots. Potatoes will need plenty

of potato fertiliser or sheep pellets as they grow.

the plants. Watering is especially important at flowering time.

• To grow potatoes in containers or buckets etc, place about 10cm of soil or garden mix in the bottom and lay about five potatoes with the shoots facing upwards on the mix then gently cover with more soil so potatoes and shoots are completely covered (or about 5cm on top of the spuds).

• Flowering is an indication that the potatoes are nearly ready to harvest. Be sure to wait until the flowering is finished before digging them up.

• As the shoots begin to grow above the soil, mound up fresh soil or add extra garden mix to your container each time they reach 5-10 cm above the soil. In frost prone areas give protection with a frost cloth. • Water only the soil and not the leaves to prevent diseases attacking

• Early varieties are generally ready to harvest approximately 90 days (3 months) after planting or when the flowers are fully opened. Main and late crops are ready when the flowers and foliage (leaves) have died back. • Dig up your fresh potatoes using a fork. Carefully remove soil from the top of the row then dig right down under and lift up. Start digging well back from where they were planted to avoid damaging any new spuds,

then work your way into the plant. If harvesting from containers, just tip it over onto the mat or tarpaulin (this makes it easier to clean up) and hunt down your fresh spuds in the soil. Get the kids or grandkids to help – they just love a ‘treasure hunt’. • As soon as they have been dug, dry thoroughly and store in old sacks or paper bags so they can ‘breath’ in a cool dark place that has good ventilation – do not expose to light • Keep a close eye on them and remove rotten ones immediately as these will infect the others. Carefully stored, they can last up to 6 months. • To be in to win one of five packs of Fiesta Seed Potatoes see page 52

Cedar, New Zealand’s premium cladding TimberTECH Director MARK RALPH provides expert advice on your Cedar, email your questions to mark@timbertech.co.nz

Transform, Protect, Maintain Like you, we love Cedar 64 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 64

Cedar is a naturally oil-rich timber, when alive, this oil gives great protection against the weather, insects and mould. Once harvested however, it no longer produces its own oil and over time is susceptible to the effects of the elements and mould. Applying a good quality oil regularly can help protect it from damage and keep it looking great – forever.

12815-v3

Why Your Cedar Home Loves Oil

0800 298 298 | www.timbertech.co.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:28:39 p.m.

Please pee on my lemon tree! When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. How very true, because in efforts to fend off colds and sniffles – all too common this time of year – many of us will turn fruit from our trees into comforting drinks loaded with vitamin C. However, after drowning our sorrows, all that excess liquid will need someplace to go and relief could be as close at hand as our own backyards. In our modern PC (or should that be WC?) world, natural fertilisation of plants has somewhat fallen by the wayside as we turn to processed chemicals to do nature’s work. But watering lemon trees – or with other plants requiring nitrogen-rich soil – urine really does assist in their growth. So, here are a few tips, as well as don’ts and dos, for using ‘number ones’ in the garden:

And ‘it was all yellow’ Urine commonly consists of 90-95% water; it is non-toxic and can be drunk. However it’s probably best not to pass this water over at your next dinner party; it may have a great nose, but your guests are sure to ‘wine’ about its flavour! The remaining five percent of human urine consists of a mixture of salts, hormones, enzymes and

minerals; including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are all valuable nutrients in stimulating plant growth.

The dog did it! It’s a common misconception that animal urine is just as beneficial to plant fertilisation as human pee. However, as the human variety contains higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, it’s always better to BYO-P!

Back to base-ics When applying this fantastic fertiliser, urinate only around the base of the tree, avoiding areas you intend to weed. And, whatever you do, don’t pee on the leaves or fruit, lest guests be unimpressed by the flavours of the fruits of your labour.

Au natural? Those who would prefer not to expose certain bodily regions to the elements when ‘watering’ can use a pot or container to carry the

urine from the privacy of the bathroom. Be sure to transfer the urine as quickly as possible as the temperature of fresh urine makes it more beneficial to plants. Organic solutions use many of the same chemicals as nonorganic substances, only in more natural forms. So, when next the urge strikes, before flushing away a perfectly good fertiliser, get that pee on the tree, and, as an added bonus, you won’t even need to put the seat back down!

Creative ideas start here! We do it all from superscapes to vege gardens – come in and be inspired today!

Landscape & Garden Supplies

Free loan trailers Greenwaste drop off center We take hard fill Waste concrete

352 EAST TAMAKI RD, EAST TAMAKI

Monday - Friday 7am-5pm; Saturday 8am-4pm; Sunday 9am-3pm 13605

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 65

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:23:52 p.m.

Right ‘Hon’ Key In addition to flying visits to Europe and the UK (they’re not the same thing anymore!) to helping Indonesian education programmes get off the ground, Prime Minister John Key also managed to address issues which hit much closer to home recently. The EastLife team reports:

Trade and aid up in smoke?

Around the world in so many ministers

While Indonesia may be shooting for the stars, New Zealand has launched new programmes designed for more down to earth purposes.

From a date with a Hollande in Paris and a Renzi rendezvous in Rome to a May day in ‘little’ Britain, John Key has been clocking up the air miles lately during visits to the UK and Europe.

Mr Key says a new renewable energy agreement will see our government contribute up to $30 million over the next five years to help Indonesia increase renewable energy output. “New Zealand helped build Indonesia’s first geothermal power plant in the 1980s. [We will now] assist Indonesia in increasing renewable energy to 25 percent of its total energy supply by 2025,” he said following a recent meeting in Jakata with Indonesian President Joko Widodo. The announcement coincides with recent criticism by the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union that the Government should not give millions in aid to Indonesia, a nation which spends hundreds of millions on its space programme. Kiwi taxpayers will also contribute an additional $2.3 million a year (to a total of $6.3 million) in training initiatives (including scholarships and English language training awards), and invest a further $4.8 million over four years in an early childhood education project. Although Kiwis with student loans or facing childcare costs might not benefit directly from such investments, Mr Key believes they are part of shoring up a strong and growing trade relationship with our near neighbour. “Indonesia is our 13th largest trading partner. It has a population of over 250 million people and has significant human and natural resources so we see great opportunities to work together more closely in a number of areas,” he said. “That’s why, last year our governments agreed to the target of increasing two-way trade to $4 billion by 2024 – from around $2 billion currently.”

66 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 66

Attending Bastille Day commemorations in Paris, Mr Key discussed the potential effects of Brexit with French president, François Hollande. “The EU is a key trade partner with two-way trade totalling more than $20.6 billion,” Mr Key said. “I reiterated the importance we attach to a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union. [Mr Hollande] was very positive so we came away from this visit very optimistic we are on a good path.” A Free Trade Agreement with the EU was also high on Key’s agenda during his meeting with his Italian counterpart, Matteo Renzi, in Rome, and he also offered congratulations to the United Kingdom’s first post-Brexit PM, Theresa May. “The United Kingdom and New Zealand have a long standing and close relationship. The trade and economic links are already strong and we have shared interests in a number of areas, including global defence and security,” he said. “I am confident we will be able to work together to further strengthen the links between our two countries.”

For Key’s a jolly Goodfellow At his 10th National Party Conference as leader, John Key was in good humour as he thanked the faithful in Christchurch during the party’s 80th birthday bash. “It all starts at the top – so please join me in thanking our hard-working president Peter Goodfellow... Finally, I’d like to thank all of our ministers, MPs, office holders and volunteers... we are busy, energised and focused on delivering a brighter future for all New Zealanders.”

As with any good politician (or comedian), Mr Key opened with a joke: “Eighty years ago, New Zealand was quite a different country... In case you’re wondering, Otago had the Ranfurly Shield, after taking it off Canterbury the year before. For all you Blues supporters out there, it took Auckland another 16 years to win it back!” He was almost right... as a Super Rugby franchise, the Blues have never held the shield. “And finally, New Zealand had a flag with the Union Jack in the corner and the four stars of the Southern Cross. So I guess some things never change!” Ba-dum-dum-dum!

Houses that Nats built... Mr Key claimed to be opening the door on new homes recently. Speaking at the National Party conference, the PM confirmed the Government will offer $1 billion as part of its “comprehensive housing plan” – almost the going rate on John’s Remuera home, some wags would jest! “The Housing Infrastructure Fund will ensure more houses are built

faster in the areas where they are needed most. [It] will be open to councils in high growth centres [including Auckland] – and help bring forward new roads and water infrastructure needed for new housing where financing is a constraint,” he explained. John reassured his party faithful that the Government has the right plan to increase housing stocks. “We want more houses built so first home buyers can get a foot on the property ladder, so people who work hard can reward themselves with a place they are proud to call home and so tenants have more options for good rental properties. And we want more built so our most vulnerable have a safe, warm and dry place to call home to help them get back on their feet and help themselves.” Mr Key claimed such programmes as HomeStart grants (available for homes under half a million dollars), SHAs (special housing areas), and changes to the Resource Management Act to speed building consents have already proved beneficial. “We will continue to build the brighter future we all want for ourselves and for our families. Providing we stick with our successful plan, I’m confident we can continue to deliver great things for our country.” www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:23:54 p.m.

You know what? You are Somebody! Part 1 ‘ Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and Coach, who’s presented in 57 countries so far. www.speakers.co.nz/ our-speakers/all-speakers/bill-potter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToRhF22nARM

Sit up! Here is the news. Lesson first. Nobody is ever, a ‘nobody’. Lesson second. Everybody is always, a ‘Somebody’. Lesson third. Nobody can make you feel like a ‘nobody’, unless you let them. Oh, all right, you can have a lie down. Yes, use wine and/or coffee, if you must. Sheesh. Since you cannot be a nobody, you must be a ‘Somebody’. Know that you are Somebody. Otherwise you would be ‘somebody else’, and that’s impossible. As wonderful American blues, gospel

and jazz singer, actress Ethel Waters once said... ‘I am somebody, cause God don’t make no junk.’ As soon as you return from zzzzzsville each morning and re- enter RealWorld (you know, the one that isn’t on the Internet...), locate the nearest mirror (please don’t cry...) and say these three power words out loud... ‘I am terrific!’ No. You may not do that from your bed. Get up!

Lesson first. Nobody is ever, a ‘nobody’. Lesson second. Everybody is always, a ‘Somebody’. Lesson third. Nobody can make you feel like a ‘nobody’, unless you let them.”

you have heard, read or seen, about them ‘lesser persons’, when you entered this mortal coil... you were terrific. Everyone said so.

Just make this statement and mean it, because you believe it.

You were cute and cuddly. Just the most gorgeous little baby ever born. I know I wuz. I wuz.

And why should you believe it? Because, despite all the nonsense

So exactly why, when, where and how did you change from being a

Somebody, to becoming a nobody? You were, you are and you always will be, inherently terrific. Capicse? Despite we all being ‘terrific’, any number of circumstances, influences and experiences can result in even terrific people doing bad, and often, terrible things. In Part 2 of this EastLife conversation, we will share more about being Somebody, because... we are, OK? Ta. I coach... PATH2© : The All-Rounder Course for 3Percenters, on Skype. It is a personal power course for serious Go-getters, who want to own their tomorrow, today. PATH2© contains world-unique content. Are you a 3Percenter? Contact me... I dare you! Cheers. Bill.

– duitdammit@xtra.co.nz

6.00%

12195-v4

09 535 2239

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 67

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:23:57 p.m.

parting shot

Subway

– I’m olive-ing it!

Yet, when told during a visit that there was a ‘set limit’ on the pickles and olives I could have on my Sub of the Day, I was somewhat taken aback. In fact, you could say this went down like a lead submarine. I must say, staff at other Subway outlets I’ve frequented over the years have been most accommodating of my admittedly strange tastes, so could this be one Subway’s way of suggesting it’s their way or the highway? I contacted the fast food chain’s head office and was impressed by a lightning fast response: “This is an easy one,” the Subway spokesperson began, “No, that is not true. You can have as much

salad as you like! Nothing has changed. There are certain special ingredients that are charged as extra, but the standard salads are included at no extra charge.” Thankfully, my beloved olives and pickles are not considered to be amongst said extras, Mr spokesperson confirmed. “The best thing about Subway is that you can get your sub exactly the way you want it. We love all the different combinations people have, and I don’t think [your order] is weird...I have lots of pickles too!” So, it seems Subway is well on track with customer service and I can continue to enjoy my salad days. And, as for the staff member who gave me the pricker by holding back the pickles, instead of following some new miserly company policy, it seems she was simply just a bit of a ‘dill’! – By Jon Rawlinson

Of humble pies While creative cuisine made the menu at the recent Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Awards, old favourites garnered gourmet gold. “The standard and creativity of this year’s entries was outstanding,” judge, Mark Southon, said of the 5,284 pies entered across 12 categories. “We saw some interesting flavours, such as alpaca and kimchi...there were nostalgic and Kiwi heritage pies like creamed paua, smoked fish and the addition of kumara to some.” However, a humble bacon and egg creation from Tauranga (Patrick’s

68 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 68

Local Authorised Financial Adviser DAVID MORGAN discusses the opportunity to invest on both sides of the Tasman.

We all want greater returns but are often put off by the notion of risk. This is because, intuitively, we associate risk with negative outcomes not positive results.

Burger King famously said: ‘Have it your way’. However, considering its pick-n-mix approach to sandwich creation, Subway – a company which has made an earl’s culinary invention famous – should have more right to this slogan... surely. More than an underground success, Subway has made a meal of advertising that choice of fillings rests with its customers, a clear message offered in a recent TV commercial featuring a suited scooter rider with a penchant for jalapenos, for example.

Managing risk

Pie Group Gold Star Bakery) was named Supreme Winner, with a meat and one ‘veg’ offering (steak and mushroom from Pak ‘n Save, Petone) claiming gold in the Gourmet Meat category. While local entrant, Greenland Bakery & Café (Botany) collected silver for both its Bacon & Egg and Chicken & Vegetable, more exotic offerings were recognised. Blueberry, Spiced Apple & Apricot from Dairy Flat Bakery, Albany, and Smoked Warehou & Tarakihi from Ginger Dynamite, Motueka claimed gold in the Gourmet Fruit and Cafe Boutique sections.

Whilst this may be explained by our tendency to focus on the short-term, even when we’re planning for the future, it doesn’t help us make the long-term decisions that will benefit us most. So what is ‘risk’? And how can we use it to our advantage? At its most extreme, there may be the risk that a company in which you have invested goes bust, leading to the asset being permanently lost. However, when investing in ‘blue chip’ companies, we can largely dismiss this risk as the likelihood of them going into liquidation is profoundly remote. This risk can be further mitigated through research and diversification. The risk of losing your investment altogether is low.

media, the New Zealand share market dropped 5%. Naturally, this makes for an alarming headline but, within a fortnight, the market had bounced back. The NZX50 has gained over 10% year-to-date. A risk of volatility is that the asset has a lower value at the point that you sell it, leading to a loss. But it is the assets that exhibit a degree of volatility from month to month (e.g. company shares) that generally outperform more stable investments (e.g. bank deposits) over a period of years. If you’re investing long term, risk equals reward. When investing for retirement it makes sense to list your objectives in chronological order. This identifies when investments will need to be sold in order to provide money that you will require within 2 years, 2-7 years and in 8 years or more from now.

So, when discussing investment risk, we are really talking about ‘volatility’; the change in the market value of an asset, both up and down, over time. By definition, these changes are short and sharp, and often correct swiftly.

Funds that will be needed sooner should be invested in stable investments to avoid the risk of selling at a loss. For funds that won’t be required until many years from now, volatility is less of a threat. In fact, with time on your side, the more volatile investments are likely to benefit you most.

The recent reaction to Britain’s Brexit referendum was a case in point. With the implications uncertain and the result sensationalised by the

It need only be a small percentage of your total investments, but including the rough with the smooth can pay dividends in the long run.

David Morgan has a disclosure statement that is available on request and free of charge. The information in this article is of a general nature only and is no substitute for personalised advice. To the extent that any of the above content constitutes financial advice, it is class advice only. If you would like advice that takes into account your particular financial situation or goals, please contact your Adviser.

Contact Mark or David, your local Authorised Financial Advisers. Mark Steele E: mark.steele@spicers.co.nz P: 09 337 7824 David Morgan E: david.morgan@spicers.co.nz P: 09 271 1705

A disclosure statement is available on request and free of charge. 11732

www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:24:00 p.m.

You can’t always get what you need

Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community Ever got something that you didn’t want? Window washers at the car intersection are an example. Using jargon, this is an unsolicited service because you didn’t ask for it to be performed.

Elderly people are often at risk because they can be uncertain as to why the contact was made, assume that is genuine, and pay for the goods and services without enquiring further.

However, there are other more subtle ways in which you can be persuaded to pay for unsolicited goods or services.

These kinds of unsolicited goods and services are regulated (but not prohibited) by the Fair Trading Act 1986.

You could be sent goods with an invoice for payment on the basis that you will retain and pay for them.

There are different rules applying to goods and services.

Someone could arrive on your property and start washing your windows or cutting your hedge and then present you with an invoice, expecting payment. Or, if you are in business, you could receive an invoice for an on-line listing that you did not request. Underlying these kinds of unsolicited contacts is often a confidentiality and privacy issue – how did the seller get your contact details in the first place? By buying a confidential customer list, or from a series of random evening telephone calls, or in some other way, without your permission?

In the case of goods, when they are supplied to you as the intended recipient, the supplier has to tell you that you don’t have to pay for them (unless you deliberately damage or lose them) and the goods must be able to be picked up in the next 10 working days. If they are not picked up they are a gift to the recipient, free of any other interests. In the case of services, you don’t have to pay for them and you are not liable for any unintended losses or damage. In each case, the supplier cannot

‘

As with many things, the best protection is to be on your guard against unsolicited goods and services, make it clear that you don’t want them and won’t pay for them and in doing so know your rights as outlined above.”

assert, or appear to assert, that they have a right to payment from you for the unsolicited goods or unsolicited services. The supplier cannot send or deliver to you an invoice or other document that states the amount of a payment for, or sets out the charge for supplying, the unsolicited goods or unsolicited services. The exception is if the invoice or document clearly informs you that you are under no obligation to make any payment for the goods or services. As with many things, the best protection is to be on your guard against unsolicited goods and services, make it clear that you don’t want them and won’t pay for them and, in doing so, know your rights as outlined above.

Retirees caught short? Although many Kiwis have big plans for their retirement, according to a new ANZ survey, some will need to prepare to live life by more moderate means. In wake of a recent survey, Ana-Marie Lockyer from ANZ says it’s time for a retirement reality check. “The reality is that it costs a lot of money to cover daily expenses, run a car and maintain a home. For example, it costs about $4,700 a year to run a car and $7000 a year to cover home repairs and maintenance,” she says. “You’d need to save around $370,000 to allow you to withdraw $300 a week during retirement. Many New Zealanders will fall well short of that based on current KiwiSaver balances and contribution rates.” Commissioned by the bank, the survey of 550 New Zealanders found most are planning to live well during retirement, owning their own homes, driving recent model cars and travelling overseas. “While this is sobering information, you can take steps to make sure you save enough for your retirement,” Mrs Lockyer advises. “The first step is to take a bit of a reality check on whether you’re contributing enough [to Kiwisaver] to meet your goals.”

+ Business and Commercial + Property + Litigation, Mediation & Intellectual Property + Trusts and Asset Management + Family and Matrimonial + Employment + Wills and Estates Wynyard Wood, Highbrook Business Park P: 09 969 0126 E: manager@wynyardwood.co.nz

www.wynyardwood.co.nz HIGHBROOK | AUCKLAND | WARKWORTH 00399

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 69

eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:24:03 p.m.

Corey Main – back in action Diving in at the deep end, in sport and life, is nothing new to Howick’s Corey Main. As the Olympic Games loom, JON RAWLINSON caught up with this elite New Zealand swimmer who’s intent on giving the games his all – to the wall and his last breath. While the build-up to any sporting contest is sure to set even the most seasoned athlete’s mind racing, when swim star, Corey Main, shatters that surface it’s time to get down to business. In fact, concerns beyond pool’s end are like water off a duck’s back.

The 21-year-old has been tracking well, improving on his 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games times in both the 100 and 200 metre backstroke. Since claiming fourth in Glasgow (200 metres), Cory says he has been working hard to build muscle and improve on speed.

“When I race the backstroke I have to be aggressive to my approach,” he says. “I monitor energy levels and how my muscles feel – legs, arms, lungs, and which is burning the most – trying to gauge when to go with the energy levels and whether they’ll hold to the wall.

“I have been working harder than ever in the pool and weight room and I’m feeling confident heading into these games. Glasgow was a great experience. I made both backstroke finals and felt what it was like to represent New Zealand at a big international event. I have built from that experience over the last two years,” he says.

“Every opportunity I get to race is amazing because it doesn’t matter about times, I just need to focus on the guy next to me and making sure I beat him.”

70 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 70

“I think, to medal in the 100m, I’d need a low 00:52 and probably low 01:53 for the 200m. I’m currently

ranked 36th in the world for the 100m, and about 27th for the 200m. So, realistically, I’m looking to make the semi finals in both events (top 16), but I’ve been practicing to make the top eight.” Although New Zealand swimmers have collected just five Olympics medals – compared to Australia with 178 – Corey believes Kiwis still punch above their weight in the water. “We have the same drive, calibre of coaches and access to facilities as the Australians, so it’s ultimately a numbers game. I think, if you were to multiply our population by six [to be roughly even to Australia’s] and leave us to simmer for a couple of years, we would be tapping Australia on the shoulder and making a big dent in their medal haul.”

“As a team, I’m confident with all our hard work we will not disappoint ourselves or New Zealand. I would say Lauren Boyle and Glenn Snyders have a good chance. On the day they could make finals and from there on in it’s anybody’s game!” With the Commonwealth Games (and many other top level swimming meets) now in his wake, Corey is firmly focused on august conquests in Brazil. He says winning an Olympic medal would be the crowning jewel in his sporting career. “It would mean the ‘world’, placing at the Olympics, but just having the opportunity to represent New Zealand, as well as my family and friends, is really indescribable. All I can say is: bring on Rio!” www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:29:04 p.m.

From the home front

‘

We have the same drive, calibre of coaches and access to facilities as the Australians, so it’s ultimately a numbers game. I think, if you were to multiply our population by six [to be roughly even to Australia’s] and leave us to simmer for a couple of years, we would be tapping Australia on the shoulder and making a big dent in their medal haul.”

Photo supplied – University of Florida\Tim Casey

State’s great Kiwi gators East Auckland raised, Corey’s story has long been associated with the water. Well before joining the University of Florida swim team (the Gators), the former Macleans College student had already taken to swimming like an alligator to water. “My parents live close to the beach and a swimming pool. We were always drawn to the water. As soon as we could crawl, my brother, Bayley and I were into swimming lessons to get water safety and confidence engrained in our psyche. It grew from there,” he says. Bayly Main, also a promising swimmer, now competes alongside his older brother with the Gators. While water sports of all sorts – including water skiing, body surfing, www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 71

kayaking and snorkelling – were all on their agenda, swimming would win out and become their passion.

and a half years has helped me grow in so many ways both in and out of the water.”

“I think my greatest highlight in swimming so far would have to be winning the South Eastern Conference as a team for the fourth consecutive year. Winning with the boys really completed my time at Florida; also having Bayley on the team made it that much better.”

Although the facilities at the University of Florida might leave the likes of Lloyd Elsmore dead in the water, Corey adds that passion is just as strong amongst coaches in New Zealand.

Soon to complete his degree in International Business, majoring in sports marketing, Corey says his athletic scholarship has proved invaluable in both swimming and life in general. “My life consists of training, eating, classes, study and sleep!” he laughs, “But living in the US for the last three

“The University of Florida caters for 52,000 students, so there is just more of everything. The complex has two 50m pools, one outdoors and one indoors. “Alongside this are weight training rooms, physiotherapy rooms, doctor, nutritionist, ice baths and cutting edge equipment. The ability to combine both full time studies with swimming is fantastic!”

While all New Zealand is liable to cheer for Corey Main as he cuts through the water in Rio, none will be backing this talented swimmer near as much as his parents, Tracey and David, and younger brother Bayley. “We haven’t made any plans to go [to the Olympics],” Tracey says. “Bayley will be home, so we are planning to cheer Corey on from Howick. We are extremely proud of him, just as any parents would be.” Corey, who left the nest on scholarship a few years ago, and has since been joined at the University of Florida by his younger brother, Bayley, a fellow New Zealand swimming rep. Tracey concedes her boys absence at their Howick home has taken some getting used to. “The biggest issue for me was the distance, their safety and well being. I was excited and anxious at the same time for the boys, even though I knew I would really miss them,” she says. “It’s been tough off and on for them as well as us. But Corey and Bayley have always been the best of friends and are very supportive of each other. It’s great that they are together sharing the same experiences.” When time and tides allow, the boys make their way home, while Tracey and David have made regular travels abroad. Corey will visit home in Howick following the Games but, while he could have a medal, unlike many a student, he won’t have his washing in tow. “He will be back for a couple of weeks and we are really looking forward to that. It would be great if they could both come home on weekends; instead we have a family Skype every Sunday. And, I am pleased to say, both boys are experts with their own laundry!” eastlife | august 2016 |

29/07/2016 1:30:07 p.m.

Luxury and intelligence

Mercedes-Benz is taking the next step into the future with tenthgeneration E-Class. Delivering stylish highlights with a distinct, emotive design and high grade interior, the new E-Class comes with numerous technical innovations enabling comfortable, safe driving plus a new dimension in driver assistance as seen at its Auckland launch at Coutts Newmarket in July.

No.1 in luxury stakes Mercedes-Benz Cars have been confirmed the number one selling luxury vehicle manufacturer in the New Zealand market year to date, according to the Motor Industry Association’s May registration data. Following on from its most successful year ever in 2015, Mercedes-Benz Cars has delivered an even stronger start to 2016, with a total of 986 new registrations. General manager, MercedesBenz Cars, Ben Giffin, said the brand’s start to 2016 reflected the outstanding growth the company had experienced in New Zealand over the past five years. “Mercedes-Benz Cars is up 15.9%

72 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 72

year on year, and we continue to grow across our passenger car range. The enhanced strength of our SUV portfolio has contributed immensely, and bolstered by the arrival of our new GLC, we now offer the most comprehensive luxury SUV range in New Zealand.” In addition, the recently launched GLE, GLE Coupé and GLS models, continue to deliver outstanding value to customers, and have helped solidify Mercedes Benz Cars’ position as the number one luxury brand in New Zealand, Mr Griffin said. He expects the July launch of the pioneering all-new E-Class will only further cement the brand’s position locally.

All E-Class models arrive as standard in New Zealand with a driver assistance package plus widescreen cockpit, KEYLESS-GO with hands free access, 360° camera, steering wheel with touch control buttons, front electric seats with memory function and LED high performance headlights, Stardust effect LED tail lights, nine airbags plus much more. The new E-Class also comes complete with infotainment and control systems offering an all-new experience. Compared with its predecessor, the wheelbase length has grown by 65 millimetres and its overall length by 43 millimetres. As a result the increase in space benefits all passengers.

At launch, the new E-Class arrives in three engine variants, the E 200, E 220 d and the E 350 d with all three models equipped with the new 9G-TRONIC nine speed automatic transmission. The entry level petrol model, the E 200, utilises a 2 L 4-cylinder petrol engine which produces 135kW and 300Nm of torque. The E 220 d entry level diesel model is powered by an all-new 4-cylinder diesel engine, which is more compact, more efficient and more refined than its predecessor. Completing the line-up at launch, the E 350 d utilises a 3 L 6-cylinder turbo diesel engine which produces 190kW and 620Nm of torque. The E 350 d incorporates 20” AMG wheels and air body control air suspension as standard. Furthermore, standard lavish appointments such as the Burmester® surround sound system with 13 speakers, heated front seats, leather upholstery and Panoramic glass sunroof are the embodiment of modern luxury.

The design of the E-Class is characterised by hallmark MercedesBenz saloon proportions.

The manufacturer’s recommended retail price is E 200: $99,900, E 220 d: $102,900, E 350 d: $146,300.

The elongated bonnet, coupled with a coupé-esque roof flowing into a sensual, broad-shouldered tail end, creates an exciting silhouette.

Two additional petrol models will arrive locally in late 2016, the E 300 and E 400 4MATIC and are now available to order. www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:29:37 p.m.

directory Reliability, Integrity, Experience

For aLL your LegaL needs

Rachael meyeR LICENSED SALESPERSON P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com

mullerlaw Level 1, Plaza Tower, Pakuranga Plaza Ph 576 7047 www.mullerlaw.co.nz

00461-v3

00636-v2

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

12 Uxbridge Road, Howick. https://rachaelmeyer.raywhite.co.nz

Kelly Flavell Law

LAWYERS

If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call.

01760

Assisting In Your Success

For all your legal requirements 18 Uxbridge Road, Howick, PO Box 39056, Howick, Auckland 2145 01492E

t: 09 535 2150 f: 09 535 2151 web: kellyflavell.co.nz

HOWICK & REMUERA

WELLS & CO BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

•COMPANIES •SELF EMPLOYED •CONTRACTORS •RENTAL PROPERTIES •GST RETURNS • TAX RETURNS

For all legal services including • commercial • Property • civil disputes

View more details at

cnr Picton st & selwyn rd Howick howick@wellslawyers.com

www.patcallinan.co.nz

01053

or email karenh@patcallinan.co.nz

22 Picton St, Howick. Phone 533-8420

Specialists in Quality Homes

Bishop’s Gate Business Centre 2 Bishop Browne Pl, Flat Bush Auckland 2013

0800 372 100 : www.litehouse.nz

phone 273 9114 email craig@ashbyarch.co.nz www.ashbyarch.co.nz

12540

• Family • employment law • Wills & estates

Design + Build

AK 535 4211 ☎www.wellslawyers.com

Alison Tait, Partner alison’s practice includes commercial and property, trusts, wills and estates. she also has significant experience in issues for seniors such as retirement villages and powers of attorney. 13759

ACCREDITED BUILDING CONSENT AUTHORITY

Building or Buying or Selling?

We can change this… to this

• Residential, Commercial & Industrial Plan Approval and Compliance Inspection Services • Pre-purchase Inspection Reports • Building Advice • Unauthorised Building Resolution Ph 272 2269 Fax 272 2270 Email: info@bldgcert.co.nz

themselves on building all homes to the highest quality. We focus on the right design to suit your requirements.

Ph: 527-6835 Email: K i m kveltman@ihug.co.nz V e l t m a n 49 Pakuranga Road, A r c h i t e c t u r e Pakuranga

BRET ROBINSON Master Builder, Licensed Building Practitioner & Project Manager for your new FOWLER HOME™ TM

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife august 2016.indd 73

www.FOWLERHOMES.co.nz

01304

Phone Bret to discuss your new home requirements - 0800 4 FOWLER

www.kimveltman.co.nz

Unit 23/2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany South, Auckland 2013 PO Box 217 012, Botany Junction 2164 www.compassbuilding.co.nz

eastlife | august 2016 |

00796

Personal & Professional – Fowler Homes pride

29/07/2016 1:24:16 p.m.

directory FROG PUDDLES

Childcare Centre

We are a small local centre which provides a safe, caring and nurturing learning environment for children. We offer a friendly, experienced and professional teaching team who provide varied learning experiences, which support children‛s growth and development. Above regulations ratio!

Ph 537 5744 www.frogpuddles.co.nz 1 Dianne Louise Dr, Half Moon Bay

Unique Venue For Hire The perfect setting for your next intimate party or business gathering. We welcome you to view at 186 Wellington St, Howick. Ph 535 1397 Fax 535 1497 www.howicklounge.co.nz

01479-v4

3 months - 5 years old Call us now to arrange a visit

Jewellery Repairs Hand-crafting Re-modelling Diamond Importing - specializing in GIA certified diamonds Insurance Valuations & Quotations Huge range of wedding band styles

00660

.... ..

JEWELLER ON SITE FOR ALL:

Warm and welcoming homely environment

00174-v2

NZ JEWELLERS

Town Centre Drive Botany Town Centre Ph 277-7746 nzjewellers.co.nz

00340

HOWICK GOLF CLUB INC at Musick Point

S W

Memberships 9 Hole, Weekday FLEXI, Junior

• •

Green Fee Players welcome

• •

13198

01969-V4

02240-v2

Coaching 535 1004

reception@howickgolf.co.nz www.howickgolf.co.nz

Im W

ACCIDENT │ MEDICAL │ SPECIALISTS

260 Botany Road, Howick

• • •

OPEN 24/7

CALL ROB: 534 1337

KITCHEN • LAUNDRY • BATHROOM

No appointment necessary

VISIT OUR INSIDE VISION SHOWROOM 1 Ron Driver Pl, East Tamaki. Ph 09 262 0608

Doctors and Nurses on site 24 hours 11679

Proudly manufactured by

www.stewart-scott.co.nz

Puzzle

Auckland Wide Exterior Cleaning Experts

Phone 277 1516

Because accidents can happen everywhere and at any time of the day or night

00736

11686

www.eastcare.co.nz

time

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 10025 – SOLUTIONS Across –1, Cask. 7, Mobilised. 8, Amok. 9, Spot. 10, Tick. 11, Lido. 14, Melancholy. 16, Standstill. 19, Deep. 22, Stew. 24, Cede. 25, Pier. 26, Policeman. 27, Tell. Down – 1, Crawl. 2, Scold. 3, Compel. 4, Kitten. 5, Riot. 6, Percolate. 12, Imitation. 13, Omen. 15, Hold. 17, Soccer. 18, Indian. 20, Exile. 21, Peril. 23, Weir. CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 10025 – SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Be-at. 7, Man of iron. 8, Chip. 9, Blue. 10, Tes-t. 11, S’ane (rev.). 14, Made a s-tart. 16, Daily round. 19, Owns. 22, Wind. 24, (s)Cuff(le). 25, Vice. 26, Un-certain. 27, Dear. Down - 1, Backs. 2, A-lie-n. 3, Called. 4, Modena (anag.). 5, L-ist. 6, Con-strain. 12, Alsatians (anag.). 13, Emil (rev.). 15, To-d-o. 17, Recit-e. 18, Un-fair. 20, Wh-i-ne. 21, S-w-ear. 23, Dr-ew.

Building Cleaning / House Washing / Roof Washing and Treatments / Gutter Cleans / Prepaint Cleaning / Fence, Walls, Deck and Driveway Cleaning WE ALSO OFFER... Window cleaning • Carpet cleaning • Pest control • Furniture and upholstery cleaning

Ph 0508 932 532 (0508 WE CLEAN), mobile 021 366 615 Email: office@bestpropertyservices.co.nz

www.bestpropertyservices.co.nz

Im • • • • •

02444

74 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 74

Pro www.eastlife.co.nz

29/07/2016 1:24:19 p.m.

R E T N I W R O F S R E F F HOTO

S L A E D $99

Air Fryers

• 1300 watt • Dishwasher safe parts • 30 minute timer

CRAZY!

$99

• 6 speed settings • Dishwasher safe parts • Planetry rotation • 1 year warranty

$99

10 ONLY!

Imprasio Washer Drier

$1199

Imprasio Top Loader

Imprasio Upright Cooker

• Made in Europe • 4 x hi speed elements • 50cm width • Fan forced • 7 functions • 2 year warranty

$699 $699 $299

Imprasio Dishwasher

$499

$99

• 6 litres • 3 way safety system • Keep warm function

• 601 litres • Frost free • Electronic door display • 2 year warranty

$1290

NEW!

Breville Fast Slow Cooker

Imprasio Double Door Fridge

• Massive 10kg washload • Built in drier • 1400rpm • 2 year warranty

• 6kg washload • 6 programmes • Child lock • Detergent dispenser • Auto power off

• 700 watt power • 5 power levels • Great for the lunchroom

NEW!

Sheffield 800 Watt Mixer

CRAZY!

20 Litre Microwaves

• 14 place settings • Top cutlery basket • Finger tip adjustment • Interior light • Quiet 49db

Imprasio Chest Freezer

• 155 litre • Concealed condenser • Drain plug • 2 year warranty

Promotional prices valid till 5pm, August 28, 2016 or while stocks last. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | august 2016 |

75 13753

eastlife august 2016.indd 75

29/07/2016 1:24:23 p.m.

www.eastlife.co.nz 13723

76 | eastlife | august 2016

eastlife august 2016.indd 76

29/07/2016 1:24:27 p.m.