EastLife December 2016 by Times Media

eastlife.co.nz

December 2016

FOX

TO THE

FORE hot looks

POOLSIDE

Win! GREAT PRIZES

E ssential

CHRISTMAS GIFTS

MREINZ

total focus

Issue Fourty Two

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Welcome to Issue No 42 of Eastlife

Not long now until we close the door on yet another year. And what a year it has been in the real estate world. From soaring prices to frenzied auctions we have seen it all. So from the entire team we would like to thank you all, past present and future clients for choosing total focus property as your agency of choice and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and may 2017 bring with it much laughter, joy and happiness. Safe travels Leigh

Build Your Dreams

Build your dream home on this superbly located section in sought-after Cockle Bay. Enjoy walking to the beach via the reserve walkway at the end of the street. Become a regular at the nearby Windross House Restaurant. Cockle Bay shops and Howick Village minutes away, bus stop just down the road and excellent schools - Shelley Park School, Somerville Intermediate, and Howick College For sale by Expressions of Interest There are concept plans available for you to use or adapt. Or bring your own ideas and creativity to this rarely available opportunity. Call me today for further information or to arrange a site visit.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH “In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years”

www.tfproperty.co.nz Ref: TFP38123

Abraham Lincoln

Lawrence Roy 021660085

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

9 Seymour Road, Mellons Bay Hidden Treasure

Snuggled amongst landscaped gardens is a classic family home, featuring three separate living spaces giving you flexible living options creating space for all the family to spread out, plus a modern kitchen with formal and informal dining areas. You will love entertaining on these stunning summer days enjoying the sparkling in-ground pool in a truly magical outdoor setting with alfresco dining around the outdoor fire while the sun slowly goes down. If schooling is a priority its only a short stroll to Mellons Bay Primary school plus in zone for Macleans College. This stylish home in a dream location is available for viewing by appointment www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38122

Our team!

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Bed

Bath

Car

Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

The “Real Estate Specialists”

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

David Prescott 021 821 131

2 | eastlife | december 2016

Living

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

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on the cover

Sad times glad times Christmas is now upon us and still we wait for the summer weather to settle in. I do hope those planning to escape come Boxing Day, or shortly after, are blessed with a rise in temperatures and clear skies!

Long time EastLifers may remember the Moontide factory shop in Marua Rd, Ellerslie. The company has since come a long way and is now represented in 50+ countries. Despite spreading its wings globally, Moontide remains passionate about swimwear, its aim to give beach confidence to all its customers. The latest collection is no exception, displaying beach and poolside elegance as seen in our cover shot – the very stylish Sail Away swimsuit in navy and white, sizes 8-16 with cup size up to size F (RRP $139.99).

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz Advertising Manager: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz

I hope skies will remain clear in the south too as the massive job of restoring infrastructure on the South Island’s east coast continues. Yet, again, we in the north can feel so lucky not to be dealing with the devastation and the ongoing aftershocks of the earthquake, made worse for it being Christmas time. I cannot help but feel somewhat superficial as I reflect on the happy times I’ve had in my own special corner of the country – the joyful wedding of my niece (she and my daughter were born just eight weeks apart); a special family day at the recent Parnell Festival of Roses; my little grandsons, aged 7 and 4 years, achieving in sport; and tucking into a yum Spanish banquet at Cuff Cafe in Highland Park Shopping centre – Eugene, you’re a culinary genius! And so the list goes on! But I was saddened by the passing of 60’s pop star Ray Columbus. How I remember him on TV shows such as Happen Inn and at local

4-9

Out & about

astLife photographers E focus on local events

Sales: Rashna Tata 09 271 8091, rashna@eastlife.co.nz

10-11 community calendar

Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz

12-13 Q&A

Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine 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.

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trying to tackle my shopping list but I’ve spent more time relishing some early holiday treats that have come my way, in particular, the latest Jack Reacher book by Lee Child. Just released into book stores, I know my son-in-law would love Night School too but he’ll have to wait until I’m finished – the sun lounger awaits!

Now, while I didn’t want this last chat of the year to be gloomy I just have to mention that little Pavia Italian Restaurant, which stood on the corner of Ussher Place and Gossamer Drive in Pakuranga for almost 20 years, is no more. Owners Tim and Maria Pechev have retired and while Pavia might not have been a Josh Emmet humdinger or a Ben Bayly Lollapalooza, it served my family very well over the years.

Finally, I’m sure readers can take some time out from the own festive duties to enjoy the latest EastLife featuring plenty of Christmas gift ideas, summer drinks (just in time for the holiday season), chances to win all sorts of prizes, and, of course a close look at locals who deserve our admiration.

I loved Maria’s Fettucine Alfredo, her generous helping of veggies, that wonderful bacon and mushroom sauce and her lattice-style garlic pizza bread – to think I’ll never taste them again! Indian Restaurant Pahadi Pearl has taken over the premises and I have yet to try. But in the meantime, it’s goodbye and a big thank you to Tim and Maria; we will miss you both (and the grappa!).

And, warmest thanks to all our wonderful advertisers and our readers, especially those who have told us how much they enjoy EastLife – to you all a very blessed Christmas and a New Year of health and happiness to follow. Cheers

Helen Perry Editor

As the festive season nears I’m

This month...

Sales: Jackie Underhill 09 271 8092, jackie@eastlife.co.nz

Photography: Wayne Martin

dance halls in the early days. While She’s a Mod was his most famous song I am sure there’s many a 60’s teenager (female) who swooned when he sang Till We Kissed – it’s still a favourite with me. So many memories! I am sure others, like me, feel a little part of that idyllic age has died within us.

Ma-vellous efforts by developer

14-15 interview

Heroic deeds honoured

16-18 essentials

Great ideas for Christmas

19-28 lifestyle

• Holiday swaps around the country • Ryan Fox chips in • Glamour camping • Kids books • Summer reads • Puzzle time • WIN!

glamping – page 22-23 29-41 h ealth, beauty and fashion

• Moontide swimwear • Beauty Counter • Ellis fashion • Naga jewellery • Weight loss surgery • Columnists

42-54 food • Cooking with Husted • Xacuti on move • Bliss balls • Dining Hot Spots • Summer drinks

55-67 Home • My favourite thing • Creative colour • Out of Europe • Birds and bees • Daltons giveaway • Regular columnists

65-69 business

• Right ‘Hon’ Key • Columnists

70-72 motoring

• Mercedes E200 • Parting shot eastlife | december 2016 |

big turnout for burn support charitable trust Once again the Burn Support Charitable Trust’s annual Raceway Fundraising Evening at Alexandra Park was an outstanding success with guests keen to promote the Trust’s invaluable work on behalf of burn survivors. Photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there.

1 1. Charlie & Nicola Marii, Sandy O’Neill 2. Melanie Kindley, Rebecca McGrath 3. Ashley Taylor, Shari Kauri 4. Allissa & Jack Dragicevich 5. Ben Hogan, Paul Dragicevich 6. Carol Anderson, Trish Keith 7. Delwyn & Alan Breslau 8. Tanya Beckett, Jackie Dragicevich 9. Tayla & Michelle Henry 10. Karina Jackson, Lisa Topley-Bale 11. Kristy Wallace, Chuck Slogrove

BEETHOVEN TO BOWIE (AND LOTS IN BETWEEN)

2017 Season Subscriptions now on sale! Visit apo.co.nz or call APO Ticketing 09 623 1052

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4 | eastlife | december 2016

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inner wheel celebrates 25 years in howick Photographer TINAZ KARBHARI captured the joyful mood of members celebrating the silver anniversary of the Inner Wheel Club of Howick at Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre recently. Inner Wheel is one of the largest, voluntary women’s service organisations in the world being established in some 100 countries with 55 clubs across New Zealand, Fiji and New Caledonia. 1. Robyn Fox, Ian Fox 2. Hazel Hunter, Joan Swift 3. Dawn Johnston, Jane Williams 4. Adrienne Davies 5. Jack Davies 6. Jeanette Roberts, Peter Hawkins, Maureen Hawkins 7. Richard Osborne, Laurice Holland, Martin Holland, Russell Clarke 8. Colleen Moller, Margaret Drake

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Made MadeFor ForYou You Paul Taylor Paul Taylor Managing Managing DirectorDirector

11/14 Basalt 11/14 Place Basalt Place East Tamaki, East Tamaki, Manukau Manukau 2013 2013 New Zealand New Zealand E: ptjewel@xtra.co.nz E: ptjewel@xtra.co.nz P: 09 265 P: 09 1169 265 1169 F: 09 265 F: 09 1179 265 1179

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WeWe manufacture manufacture andand repair repair on the on the premises; premises; anything anything from from repairing repairing a chain, a chain, to designing to designing andand creating creating a ring a ring thatthat maymay Paul Paul H Taylor H Taylor become become a family a family heirloom. heirloom. WeWe alsoalso have have a large a large range range of of ManufacTuring ManufacTuring Jewellers Jewellers quality quality jewellery. jewellery.

Re-modelling Re-modelling Experts Experts What What treasures treasures lie lie hidden hidden at the at the bottom bottom of your of your jewellery jewellery box? box? A family A family keepsake, keepsake, treasured treasured but,but, sadly, sadly, worn worn out.out. An An old old favourite favourite youyou used used to wear to wear ‘always’ ‘always’ – now – now so dated. so dated. Why Why not not bundle bundle up up youryour neglected neglected valuables valuables andand let let us us design design Highland Highland Park Village Park Village Taylor Paul Taylor andPaul and manufacture manufacture a new a1/503new heirloom heirloom youyou to wear to wear andand enjoy. enjoy. Managing Managing Director Director Pakuranga 1/503 Pakuranga Rd, Howick, Rd, for Howick,for Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand New Zealand Treasured Treasured memories memories – re-invented –E:re-invented – just – just for for you. you. ptjewel@xtra.co.nz E: ptjewel@xtra.co.nz P: 09 537 P: 09 5656 537 5656 F: 09 537 F: 09 5616 537 5616

★★ ★★ ★ Park Highland ntre Ce Shopping ★

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eastlife | december 2016 |

vip’s sparkle at brownsons jewellers Valued customers and guests turned out for Brownsons Jewellers end of year VIP evening to enjoy a little Christmas cheer and to toast the store’s 21 years of trading. Photographer TINAZ KARBHARI was there too.

1 1. Grant Paitry, Jane Auret 2. Dianne Bennett 3. Emma Green, Fleur Paitry 4. Ritesh and Anjana Raniga 5. Kate Inkster, Sam Nobilo 6. Olivia Stevenson, Anjana Raniga 7. Joan Bielby 8. Bianca Loplesah, Mihoela Mliholache

Celebrating our 21st Christmas in Pakuranga Diamond Jewellery

Handmade Jewellery

Brownsons Jewellers

S173 Pakuranga Plaza, Auckland Ph 09 576 3818 • brownsonsjewellers@gmail.com 14438-v2

6 | eastlife | december 2016

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LET YOUR INSTINCTS DRIVE YOU.

MID0117_AMG_Clubman_EM

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The all new MINI Clubman has been intuitively designed down to the last detail. Featuring distinctive split doors at the rear, top shelf finishes in the deceptively spacious interior, the latest communications technologies and a clever array of safety features, it is the perfect combination of urban practicality and sophisticated style. Trust your instincts and book a test-drive at Auckland MINI Garage today. AUCKLAND MINI GARAGE. 381-383 Broadway, Newmarket. 0800 548 352. MINI.CO.NZ

THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

teeing off for LIFE EDUCATION TRUST 1

The Rotary Club of Half Moon Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Ambrose Golf Day was a resounding success with more than 30 teams competing at the Pakuranga Golf Club. The tournament raised in excess of $16,000 for Life Education Counties Manukau, Photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there.

1. Brenda Stuart, Ian Thomsen 2. Jochen Zirfas, Bruce Besley 3. Liz & Don Sykes 4. Marvin Duffy, Peter Steel, Lesley Gascoigne 5. Nic McIlroy, P Merrick, Warren Best 6. Michelle Kidd, Stephen Glading 7. Rob Evans, Nic Mackesy 8. Ray Baddock, Terry Daniell 9. Jaap Groenowegen, Tony Johnson

WORKING IN YOUR COMMUNITY FOR YOUR COMMUNITY Another successful fundraiser by the Rotary Club of Half Moon Bay Inc. Funds raised to go back into the community with Life Education Trust as the masthead charity.

rotaryhalfmoonbay.club 14610

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new premises for mike pero real estate office A great crowd turned out to congratulate Suzanne McDowell and her team at Mike Pero Real Estate Highland Park on their move into new premises within Highland Park Shopping Centre. Photographer SARAH MOROVIC captured the celebrations.

1 1. Grace & Josephine Kinsella, Mike Pero 2. Eugene Sokolovski 3. Keith Burney, Suzanne McDowell 4. Darren Pratley, Ian Keightley 5. Jackie Watson & Nik Brown 6. Tracey Cameron, Robyn Mackey 7. John Keating, Jacqui Reen 8. Lauren McDowell, Fran Kent, Tony McCrystal 9. Crystal Dalton, Ann Chung, Amy Li

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eastlife | december 2016 |

community calendar december 2016 ➤ chriStMAS Alexandra Park & Ellerslie christmas at the races Now-December 22, Alexandra Park Raceway, Greenlane Road West, Epsom, and Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Avenue, Remuera Don’t forget, Christmas at the Races continues to run almost right up until the big day. See theraces.co.nz. the Opening night before christmas December 6-22, The Basement Theatre, Lower Greys Avenue, Auckland City While Joey Ramone might have been reluctant to go down to the basement, theatre fans have long embraced the opportunity to do so. And, with Christmas almost here, now’s as good a time as any, daddy-o! After exhausting every Christmas topic over the years, this time around audiences will be treated to a ‘behind the scenes’ look at what it takes to perform a Christmas theatre show... or break a leg trying! For more information (and show times), see basementtheatre.co.nz. christmas Morning tea December 7, from 10am, Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Rd, Howick More than just food for thought will be on offer as the Howick Library offers tea for many more than just two, home baking and carol singing from The Melody Makers. Everyone Welcome. Call 09 534 5301. the great kidscan Santa run/walk (Auckland central & Auckland South) December 7 & 8, from 6.30pm, Victoria Park,

Victoria Street West, Auckland City, and Barry Curtis Park, Stancombe and Chapel Roads, Botany Downs Join in the fun as Santa Claus, Saint Nick, Pere Noel, Viejo Pascuero, Dun Che Lao Ren, Kerstman, Joulupukki, Weihnachtsmann, Kanakaloka, Mikulas, Babbo Natale, Hoteiosho, Julenissen, Swiety Mikolaj, Ded Moroz, Jultomten and Father Christmases from many walks of life suit up during a run/walk to raise funds for KidsCan. Details for all 19 events is available via lacticturkey. co.nz/SantaRun. celebrate christmas with APO December 9-10, from 7.30pm, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell If you can handle a little Handel, would like to try some Tchaikovsky, or would say ‘you bet!’ to Schubert, then this event’s for you! As we frantically battle shops ahead of Christmas, solace will be at hand in Parnell as the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra remind us that there is so much more to the sound of Christmas than the jingling of Jingle Bells. See apo.co.nz/whats-on. coca-cola christmas in the Park December 10, from 7.30pm, Auckland Domain, Park Road, Grafton Sleigh bells ringing, children singing and a fat man in a suit? Who could ask for anything more for Christmas? But, of course, one of New Zealand’s biggest festive bashes offers plenty more than this, including entertainment by some of the best Kiwi performers in the business. For a full schedule of this year’s show, see coke.co.nz/ christmas-in-thepark.

➤ chriStMAS

Eastgate christian centre christmas walkthrough December 18-23, from 7pm, 5 Ben Lomond Crescent, Pakuranga Heights Follow the intrepid Detective Frost and a host of other quirky characters as they seek to serve kawakawa bay christmas in the Park December 11, 6-8pm, Village Green, Kawakawa Bay Festive tidings will be delivered by the sack full as Kawakawa Bay lays on its annual Christmas celebrations, featuring music, refreshments, games and more. See kawakawabay.org.nz for details. Polish christmas workshop December 11 & 18, Polish Heritage Trust Museum, 125 Elliot Street, Howick Christmas eastern European style comes alive locally this month. Complete with a presentation of Polish Christmas Stories (no doubt we can expect a ‘Polished’ performance!) and tastings of Pierniki, a spicy ginger biscuit, this workshop offers locals the chance to make decorations the Polish way. See polishheritage.co.nz or call 09 533 3530 for more information; bookings are required. christmas comedy night December 14, from 7.30pm, The Apothecary, 27 Picton Street, Howick If laughter is the best medicine, get

a wise man who has lost his way. This 25 minute production is suitable for visitors of all ages. Face painting, a photo booth for family Christmas pictures and refreshments will also be on offer. For more information, see eastgatecc.org.nz. ready to ingest one heck of a dose as comedy infects locals in time for Christmas. Howickian comedian, David McCartney, hosts a show featuring top Kiwi comedy talent including Jeremy Corbett (of 7 Days fame) and 2014 Billy T award-winner, Guy Montgomery. See theapothecary. co.nz/events for details and, to read more about David, see our November issue (e-edition via eastlife.co.nz). carols by candle light December 18, from 8.15pm, Stockade Hill, corner of Mellons Bay Road & Picton Street, Howick Howick will celebrate Christmas in song, once again, as sing-alongs, choirs and bands take centre stage on Stockade Hill – great family entertainment. Operatunity’s 15th Anniversary gala December 20, 11am-1pm, Picton Centre, 120 Picton Street, Howick From musicals and music hall, to skits, panto and more, Operatunity presents a birthday bash and Christmas concert featuring a variety of performances. More information via daytimeconcerts.co.nz.

Pakuranga choral Society christmas concert December 11, from 2pm, All Saints Church, 17 Selwyn Road, Howick Come all ye faithful to All Saints Church on December 11 for a feast of beautiful music thanks to the talents of the Pakuranga Choral Society. In addition to the low notes of baritone, Clinton Fung, uplifting voice of soprano, Christina Orjis, and many more, audiences will be treated to the in-spire-ational vocals of the Howick Primary School choir. Tickets available at the door; for details, contact Pakuranga Choral Society via pakchoral.org.nz.

➤ MuSic clash of the titans January 6, Powerstation, 33 Mt Eden Road, Grafton Rockers of (near) god-like proportions will soon be ready to rumble at an iconic Auckland venue. Legendary band, Dragon, will (most likely) roar out a rendition of the classic April Sun in Cuba – those who’re ‘Old Enough’, will definitely know that tune! What’s more, they’ll be up against Mi-Sex and The Feelers during a ‘battle of the bands’ style evening. For more information, see powerstation.net.nz.

➤ fEStivAlS, fAirS & fEtES Silo Park – Summer Season Now – January 29, Silo Park, Beaumont Street and Jellicoe Street, Auckland City From movies al fresco to markets and more, Silo Park is celebrating summer on the waterfront. For a full schedule of events, see silopark.co.nz. hunua villages Summer fete December 10, 11am-4pm, YMCA Camp Adair, 2487 Hunua Road, Hunua Whether engaging in a little daring-do on a famed obstacle course or simply perusing market stalls and enjoying a wide range of entertainment, fete awaits those who visit Camp Adair this month. See facebook.com/ HunuaFete for more information. Joseph and the Amazing technicolor Dreamcoat December 9-10, times vary, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre,

50 Mayoral Drive, Auckland City Hey, Joe, where you going with that coat in your hand? Into the city to see the National Youth Theatre Company perform one of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s iconic masterpieces perhaps? The cream of the crop of the next generation of Kiwi thespians will take to the stage soon to rock this musical epic inspired by the most popular book of all time. See nytc. co.nz for showtimes. cynthia fortitudes farewell – her Second December 10 (from 7.30pm) and 11 (from 2pm), Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Drive, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga Diva, Cynthia Fortitude, will need to draw on every ounce of stamina which her name suggests she possesses when tasked with writing an opera for the Rugby World Cup. However, it’s bound to be a ‘Balls-up’! Despite her best efforts, Cynthia’s aptly titled work, Balls,

➤ fEStivAlS

could fall flat when musical mishaps, misunderstandings and mayhem ensue. For more information, see hlt. org.nz/whats-on.

➤ nEw yEAr’S EvE Motel california - Eagles tribute December 31, from 8.30pm, Howick RSA, 25 Wellington Street, Howick Locals will extend a welcome to the Motel California one of these nights as this tribute band takes it to the limit one more time. So, while you can check them out (almost) any time you like, there’s no point waiting until after the thrill is gone. Contact the RSA (via howickrsa.co.nz) for details. wondergarden December 31, 2pm-12.30am, Silo Park, Corner of Beaumont and Jellicoe Street, Auckland City While many an Aucklander may descend on the Coromandel or Northland for New Year’s Eve, those who choose to avoid beachside riots (oops! We mean celebrations, of course!) will still find plenty of entertainment in the heart of the city. Billed as a musical and visual celebration, Wondergarden will feature artists, musicians and even children’s entertainment. See wondergarden.co.nz for details.

➤ Art & thEAtrE

➤ SPOrt

Small painting exhibition Now – December 17 & January 6-29 (Fridays-Sundays), 10am-3pm, Green Gables Cottage Art Gallery, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook Street Howick When it comes to art, there are no small paintings. However, in one way, of course, there are! During Howick Art Group’s latest exhibition, smaller works take centre stage. Sales will help support South Auckland Totara Hospice. See howickartgroup.co.nz for more information.

barfoot & thompson twilight Summer night December 7, 3.30-11.30pm, Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera An evening of thoroughly thrilling thoroughbred entertainment awaits behind the gates at Ellerslie Racecourse. In addition to witnessing horses on course, trackside entertainment is also on offer, including The Champagne G.H Mumm Garden Party. For more information regarding this, and many other summer season race events, see ellerslie.co.nz.

Auckland live Summer in the Square Now – December 23, Aotea Square, 50 Mayoral Drive, Auckland City It’s hip to be (in the) Square this summer as entertainment of all sorts takes centre stage. From music to arts, street performers

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and workshops, this series boasts a lunchtime concert with New Zealand Opera and even a street ballet using supermarket trolleys performed by The New Zealand Dance Company. And, after a break for Christmas, festivities will resume. Full details available via aucklandlive.co.nz.

Q&A

with property developer

Charles Ma ‘

Breaking new ground in business is not so easy, even for veterans. And yet, aged just 26, Flat Bush resident, Charles Ma, is already no stranger to groundbreaking. This month, we pose a few questions to this Howick-born entrepreneur about his new housing development (Auranga, near Drury) and views on Auckland’s housing shortage.

You graduated from the University of Auckland at end of 2014. Just two years on, you’re the MD of a multi-billion dollar project portfolio. How did such a rapid fire rise up the corporate ladder come about? ‘Pursue what is worthy, and don’t settle for less’ – this is my motto. I have an unwavering Christian belief in the potential of good people, which is why I’ve surrounded myself with good people – a community of people really – who have all shaped who I am today.

I think it’s a reality of modern, urban living in all large cities, but that doesn’t mean quality needs to be compromised. Apartment living can and should be of a high quality. Could Auckland become ‘the world’s most liveable city’ or is that just meaningless jargon? With the right people doing the right things collectively, I think this is achievable and something to which we should all aspire.

What does a qualified engineer (particularly one so young) really know about how people want to live their lives?

There’s been a lot of talk about ‘affordable’ homes. What price would you say is affordable to most and what proportion of the homes your developments will be affordable?

While civil engineering taught me how to build buildings and bridges, I believe there is an inherent need for people to feel good, to feel worthy and feel that they belong – these are the basics for a satisfying life. I am passionate about creating great places that give people choices and opportunities for great living.

Under the legislation, 10 percent of SHA [Special Housing Area] homes must be affordable, but we’ve decided to increase that by 50 percent, so more than 200 homes at Auranga [near Drury] will be affordable.

Are central and local government doing enough to support developers in resolving the housing shortage? The Special Housing legislation has been significant in helping increase housing, but the Government, Council, CCOs [Council Controlled Organisations] and private developers need to work together to make sure quality developments are supported by quality infrastructure. Is Auckland becoming too built up, or do we need to get used to apartment living, leaving the quarter acre dream behind? Not only is Auckland New Zealand’s largest city, it’s also growing into a cosmopolitan city on an international scale. Unfortunately, density is just one of the realities of growth in all large cities.

12 | eastlife | december 2016

Affordability is defined as 75 percent of the Auckland median price as published in September of the year resource consent is sought. This means the value of our affordable homes will change, but our first affordable homes will be priced in the $580,000 region. How important is it to balance green spaces and public facilities with housing and businesses? Extremely important. At Auranga, we’re providing for parks, reserves, wetland areas and access to the sports park and water’s edge, as well as paths, boardwalks, and cycleways, so people can easily experience the outdoors, get fresh air, exercise, meet people and have places to enjoy and relax. Auranga is way more than just rows of bricks and mortar. It’s about people and a community with a heart.

I didn’t take study overly seriously until about the seventh form – I was at the bottom class! But I got it together and because I had a passion for creativity, I pursued a civil engineering degree at the University of Auckland.”

What other developments have you led, and are any more in the planning stages? I am the managing director of Sugartree, a 650 plus apartment complex in Auckland’s CBD, project director for a 400-plus section suburban development at Flat Bush and 30-plus lifestyle rural sections in Whitford. My focus is entirely on Auranga for the moment. My dream is to make it the best urban development in New Zealand and quite possibly one that will be internationally recognised. Were you as successful at school as you are now in business? I didn’t take study overly seriously until about the seventh form – I was at the bottom class! But I got it together and because I had a passion for creativity, I pursued a civil engineering degree at the University of Auckland. To create meaningfully, I realised I also needed comprehensive business, management and leadership skills, so I completed a business degree (also at Auckland) and as part of my goal to keep learning and challenging myself, I recently completed an executive leadership programme at Stanford Graduate School of Business in California. Over the years I have had many great teachers, who have advised and supported me on my journey. www.eastlife.co.nz

Charles Ma focused on developing the Auranga Estate on Drury land (pictured above.)

I understand you support Auckland Uni’s Dean’s Leadership Programme. What does this involve and how important is it for successful people to ‘give back’? My wife and I sponsor the Auckland University Engineering School and their efforts to develop leaders of tomorrow. I strongly believe in the leadership potential of the next generation and have been involved in mentoring engineering students through their internships as well as contributing to the planning of the Dean’s program and speaking at university events. One of the most important lessons my mum taught me was that it is more blessed to give than to receive. We live in a society where separation, loneliness and brokenness are common. I want to give back in a way that reconnects people and provides opportunities to reach our potential as individuals and as communities. Together, people can be stronger and will achieve more. If you could be Minister of Housing for one day, what would you do first and why? I would keep extending the SHA legislation and get council to continue with the housing accord. However, I would be more discerning about who has the privilege of that legislation so developments are of a higher standard across the board. If you could invite any three people to dinner (living or dead) who and why? I’ve thought about this a lot. I’ve narrowed it down to Elon Musk of SpaceX and Tesla Motors – his vision is changing the world and humanity, Microsoft founder, Bill Gates – his business and philanthropic endeavours are legendary, and Martin Luther because I admire his devotion to truth and theology. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

A tale of two survivors –

honours for local heroes Hundreds of people from across New Zealand were nominated as Kiwibank Local Heroes and, at the recent Auckland regional awards’ night, Howickians, Alan and Delwyn Breslau, patrons of the Burn Support Charitable Trust, were recognised for their contribution, sacrifice and commitment to the community. HELEN PERRY spoke to the couple whose selfless work for burns survivors has sprung from personal tragedies.

Alan and Delwyn Breslau’s irrepressible energy and their dedication to helping burn survivors is catching. Five minutes with this extraordinary couple and I am full of admiration not just for the hurdles they have overcome in life but the way their conquering of adversity has inspired so many people. I am not in the least surprised they were both nominated (individually) for Kiwibank local hero awards or that they were both recipients. Yet, humble in their acceptance, the couple agree they continue their work with the Burn Support Charitable Trust in New Zealand and The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors in the USA because there is great need. They see their age is superfluous – Alan is 90, Delwyn 70 – and both dismiss compliments about their

boundless enthusiasm for helping others. “We believe, or rather know, it is possible to turn a tragedy into a positive experience and because we have both experienced firsthand how burn injuries damage more than the body – they scar the spirit and the soul – we want to encourage others. We also know life is about choices,” Alan says. “Those who have been disfigured by burns or other traumas can go on to be happy, to live better and more fulfilling lives, doing things they might never have done or achieved otherwise. We have both chosen to be happy!” US-born Alan is himself a burn survivor. In 1963, the plane he was in left Rochester, New York

in poor weather and immediately, encountered a tornado, crashing on to the runway and breaking in two. The 35 passengers in the rear section survived. Seven of the eight people in the front section – crew and Alan’s colleagues – died. Alan was that eighth person. Pulled from the wreckage but horrifically burned, he spent the next five years in hospital undergoing 52 surgeries (he has now undergone more than 70), dying twice and, finally, emerging badly disfigured. Many people might not have found their way back from such an experience but this courageous man refused to be a victim. Always full of hope and expectation that life could still be good he went on to recover his life, albeit with a new ‘formula’ and

words of encouragement Alan Breslau’s story would fill a book. In fact, it has. His first, a biography was entitled, The Time of My Death. Now, as before, his latest book, The Beauty of Disfigurement – How to Cope with Looking Different, is not a tale of tragedy but one of optimism and gratitude. It has won many accolades with readers soon realising that Alan is not only comfortable with himself but exudes pride and confidence. His many inspirational words of encouragement to others in similar circumstances include: • I n a society where physical beauty is prized, keep in mind that high self-esteem and a positive attitude will never fade with time. • Look on every day as a celebration and instead of waiting

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for happy endings – open your eyes to the wonder of life and see the humour and magic in each moment. Delight in the ways things always turn out and be amazed at the beauty of it all in the process. • Life is all about choices – CHOOSE to be happy; choose your attitude. Let each day be fun, which is a unique ability with which we humans have been blessed. • Remember there are three great healers: Time, Purpose and Love. Give yourself some time, find a purpose and find someone to love. • The old person will never be there again. You will never look the same, feel the same or be the same and you have to grieve that loss, give up that person and not

keep looking for that person or trying to be that person because you never can. Instead you are reborn; you must look to the future and build a new life. • We who are disfigured from burns or other traumas get a second chance in life. We are not only changed physically by our long and terrible ordeals but emotionally as well....but our accidents have given us an edge and an opportunity to live life more intensely than before. • We are victors of circumstance not victims – what we have now is life and life is everything. If readers would like to assist or donate to the Burn Support Charitable Trust they can contact: michele@burns.org.nz or visit the website www.burns.org.nz where bank account details are available.

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Those who have been disfigured by burns or other traumas can go on to be happy, to live better and more fulfilling lives, doing things they might never have done or achieved otherwise. We have both chosen to be happy!”

in 1972 formed The Phoenix Society when there was no psycho-social support at all in the USA for burn survivors. The Phoenix Society quickly went global and today remains a driving educational, peer support, advocacy and fundraising force of which the World Burn Congress is one of its most important annual events. The 1988 Congress was also the catalyst for Alan and Delwyn’s meeting and later their marriage. Delwyn’s story is somewhat different. It began in February, 1982 when her eight-year-old son, Brendon, sustained burns to 40 per cent of his body in a Papakura explosion. He was hospitalised for two months and also underwent skin grafts on his hands, shoulders, lower back and leg. He was fortunate that his face was spared disfigurement. Delwyn’s anguish watching her young son lying immobilised on a hospital bed with only an ankle spared from being covered with dressings is something most people cannot imagine although, at the time, other mothers certainly identified with her distress. “It was while Brendon was having his surgeries that I gained such a lot of support just from talking with the father of a little girl who had also been burned and had endured numerous surgeries over several years. “After Brendon was finally discharged I told the nursing staff that if other parents of burned children would www.eastlife.co.nz

Alan and Delwyn Breslau – keeping hope alive for others.

like someone to talk to, who truly understood their situation, I would be happy to help.”

Delwyn wrote back asking who was organising it and would there be some funding available for the trip.

The calls came in and there began Delwyn’s journey. In time this led to the founding of the Burn Support Charitable Trust which supports burn survivors with a wide range of activities such as support meetings, annual children’s camps, special events and opportunities to attend the World Burn Congress. It has no government funding and relies on donations and the fund-raising efforts of people such as Delwyn and Alan.

“I was told it was The Phoenix Society and given the address for its executive director, Alan Breslau. I wrote to him explaining that I was the mother of a burned child and in the throes of establishing a national burn support organisation here.

While both accidents were highly publicised at the time, as the years passed that might have been that – Alan in the States carrying on his work with The Phoenix Society and Delwyn in New Zealand working to establish the Trust. Until one event set them on a new path together. In 1987 Delwyn received a letter – ‘quite out of the blue’ from a social worker in Brisbane who had heard about her work and wanted her to talk about it at the first World Burn Congress to be held in Philadelphia the following year. www.eastlife.co.nz

“He replied and said he’d scheduled me as a speaker! His beautifully written letter, together with newspaper clippings detailing how he lost the top of his head, his nose, an eye, an ear, thumb and fingers in the plane crash and his subsequent recovery and determination to be (in his words) a victor of circumstances not a victim, left me thinking, ‘wow this is some guy!’ “There were several more letters as arrangements were made and with each one I felt a just a little bit fizzy.” Delwyn and Alan eventually met seven months later in the hotel lobby and both say they felt a ‘connection’. By the end of the congress – four

days later – Alan had told Delwyn he was going to marry her. That was the start of a five-year, long distance courtship which resulted in their US wedding on March 13, 1993. But marriage came only after Delwyn insisted on the five years to ensure the feelings they had instantly felt, would prove long lasting. “Of course, I also took into account that we lived thousands of miles apart, there was a 20 year age difference and that my two sons were a bit too young to leave behind if they didn’t want to live in the States. “But our passion never waned. We communicated regularly, eagerly anticipating each other’s phone calls and letters – no email in those days – and when we married it was in the very picturesque Simon Butler Mill House in Chalfont. “However, our wedding day also saw the area hit by the biggest snowstorm of the century and those guests who managed to get through were all totally snowed in! Luckily it was a B&B so everyone was accommodated!”

Photo Sarah Morovic

For the next 10 years the Breslau’s remained in the USA, lecturing all over the country and being actively involved with The Phoenix Society, establishing the first camp for burned children in Pennsylvania, World Burn Congresses and other related activities. In 2003, they decided it was time to make their home New Zealand and on their return settled in Half Moon Bay. But there was no slowing down in their burns work. While Alan doesn’t travel quite as much as in the past, Delwyn can usually expect to have at least one speaking engagement a month not to mention input into many other activities for Burn Support. “As long as there is a need and we can fulfil it, we will,” she says. “When Alan formed The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, he named it after the mythological bird that burns up in its nest and rises reborn, even more beautiful than before. He has always worn his scars proudly, as badges of courage; we will encourage others to do the same.” eastlife | december 2016 |

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Make Christmas shopping easy on yourself – EastLife’s range of stunning festive Essentials takes the hard yards out of finding those special gifts for people you love. Check out our suggestions and wrap up your gift buying in no time at all!

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Many locations and various bach options to choose from on Holiday Swap.

Photos supplied

Bach swaps way to see country Annual vacations at the family bach is something of a tradition for many Kiwis but sometimes visiting the same place, year after year, can wear thin. HELEN PERRY talked to an enterprising local who has launched Holiday Swap to give bach and home owners opportunities to take their breaks around the country. Mel and Ketan Buddhdev’s Northland bach couldn’t be in a more lovely coastal location overlooking Bream Bay. They have owned the property for the past four years and it fulfils their idea of a halcyon holiday escape within easy travelling from home. Leaving the ‘old country’ behind eight years ago, Mel says on coming to New Zealand she was astounded at how many Kiwis owned a ‘bach’, the term quite new to her. “In the UK, it is generally the very wealthy who have a holiday home but here we discovered many ordinary families owned baches or homes in beautiful parts of New Zealand,” she says. “We had come here attracted by what is largely a safe country with beautiful, natural scenery and a better way of life. It offered the kind of environment where we wanted to raise our two sons, Josh and Jake.” The Buddhdev’s settled at Bucklands Beach and four years ago they bought their northern idyll which has consistently provided them with a retreat the whole family enjoys, Ketan, Mel and their sons, now 12 and nine years old. “We go north as often as we can and love having friends come too but when my sister visited us from England for the second time we wanted to take her somewhere www.eastlife.co.nz

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We’ve had some enquiries from overseas but my idea, at least at this stage, is to give New Zealand home or bach owners access to likeminded people who aren’t looking for international swaps but want to make the most of their own country.”

different without going to huge expense,” says Mel. She started posting on online looking to find people in the same boat who might be interested in swapping baches (or houses). After a long struggle a Facebook contact turned up trumps. “Between us we arranged a swap – our Langs Beach place for theirs on Waiheke Island and it worked out extremely well. We spoke a few times over the phone and arranged it all – simple and easy. It was so successful, I started thinking about how I could make it easy for other people to arrange similar exchanges and the idea of Holiday Swap was born.

The Buddhdev family (from left) Ketan, Josh, Jake and Mel. “For a lot of Kiwis, going on holiday is about relaxing in a home away from home – staying in a clean, comfy place where there is space for the whole family, sometimes, pets, too.” Initially, putting up one web page touting the idea and asking for expressions of interest, Mel soon had 700 enquiries on her hands. That prompted her to develop a full website and formally start Holiday Swap. Launched three months ago it already has more than 100 properties listed from around New Zealand with new ones being added daily. “We’ve had some enquiries from overseas but my idea, at least at this stage, is to give New Zealand home or bach owners access to likeminded people who aren’t looking for international swaps but want to make the most of their own country.” Holiday Swap provides the first year of membership free and thereafter it will cost members $49.95 annually. During the year members can swap

Photo supplied

as many times as they like. Site visitors can see properties but cannot contact members to arrange a swap until signing up. “We are the first port of call but after we put home owners in contact with each other it is up to them to make their own arrangements for a swap,” explains Mel. “Obviously, members can turn down a request or offer to swap if a property doesn’t suit but, hopefully, people will be open to different experiences and the emphasis will be on experiencing new local destinations whilst still having their own bach available when wanted.” And, the idea is definitely latching on as this comment from one user suggests: “I swapped my home as we don’t own a bach. I loved my holiday swap experience, it was the cheapest and simplest way to travel in New Zealand and it was much more costeffective than having to book a bach or stay in a hotel. I am recommending it to all my friends and family!” – J. Hitchcock. eastlife | december 2016 |

Fox on hunt for Ironically, Ryan Fox, doesn’t often have time to stop for tea. However, during a short lull between tee-times, the professional golfer did manage to catch up for chat with JON RAWLINSON.

Dating back to the 14th century, golf is not a young game. And, considering many a Masters’ win has been claimed by players in their 40s, it’s not necessarily a young man’s game either. Aged 29, Beachlands’ golfer, Ryan Fox, could still have a long career ahead of him. Most recently, he tied for 4th at the Australian Open and tied for 11th (with teammate, Danny Lee) at the World Cup of Golf. As EastLife went to print, Ryan (ranked 131 as at Dec 2) was showing good form at his first Australian PGA Championship. I ask, realistically, how high he could climb in the world rankings; could he ever become number one? “I’ve never actually been asked that question!” he pauses. “I don’t know, really. I can’t say it’s not a goal but being in the top 50 is realistic. It’s almost easier – almost – to stay in that top 50 than to break into it. More opportunities open up and you can play all the bigger events, make more money and improve your chances of climbing the rankings.” Ryan may not quite be on par with the world’s best, at least not yet. However, after recently securing a spot on next year’s European Tour, a rise could be on the cards. Cautiously optimistic, he believes a winning run in Europe certainly couldn’t harm his chances of securing a spot on the prestigious PGA Tour. “The dream has always been to be on the PGA Tour. It’s probably not something you’d set out to do while [playing] in Europe. I just need to focus on playing well there and if the opportunity arises, take it. Winning tournaments will pretty much deal with that though. “With team sports, you can play badly and win or you can play well and lose but, with golf – particularly at the top level – there’s nowhere to hide. In the first couple of rounds especially, you’re just trying to beat the course.” Since competing at his first Major (the British Open in 2015), opportunity has been knocking for Ryan. Although disappointed by his 39th placing

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s e l g a e

at the Rio Olympics, he rates the experience highly. “There were a lot of top 50 guys at the Olympics. I haven’t played many events with fields of that calibre, so the important thing was that I didn’t feel out of my depth. It was encouraging,” he says. “Looking at my performance objectively, it wasn’t quite as I would have liked. I let a couple of scores slip and let myself down a little, but I played some pretty nice golf as well, and I added to our family legacy a little bit, which is pretty cool.” Competing as part of a wider New Zealand team was especially precious and one he would like to repeat at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, he adds. “Rio was a huge success for golf and, as it’s highly popular in Japan, the event’s only going to get bigger and better. Golfers usually just play for themselves, but at the Olympics, we really are representing our countries.” Of Ryan’s Olympic teammates, Lydia Ko claimed silver and Danny Lee finished tied for 27th. Could this trio be driving a local revival of the game? “Everyone remembers Bob Charles in the 60s, but when Michael Campbell first went on tour, we also had Frank Nobilo, Greg Turner and Phil Tataurangi. The late 90s to early 2000s was a golden era. We’ve probably had some lean years since Cambo won the US Open [2005] but Danny and Lydia have started a bit of a resurgence.” Michael Hendry is also one to watch. “Mike’s done really well on the Japan Golf Tour and we have others who are close to that next step up. Between me, Danny and Mike, we probably have the biggest three golf tours in the world covered [PGA Tour, European Tour and Japan Golf Tour respectively] so we’re going well and here’s hoping more will join us.” Recently, basketball’s Steven Adams secured a contract worth NZ$140 million over four years, becoming NZ’s highest paid sportsman, well ahead of Lydia Ko, IndyCar’s Scott Dixon, and rugby’s Daniel Carter.

Ryan Fox – competing at the Northern Ireland Open which he won earlier this year. Photo supplied Asked how he rates when it comes to the ‘rub of the green’, Ryan appears sincerely unsure. “I would tell you but it’s hard to know exactly because [unlike in team sports] we have to take our own costs into account. Put it this way, though, I’d be comfortably shy of Steven!” he laughs. “Top golfers make A LOT and not just from prize money. There are probably 10 or 15 players these days who actually make considerably more off-course than on.” It seems a pragmatic approach is required for golfers, who effectively operate as small businesses. “I love playing golf, but I do go through patches – during a bad run – when it’s hard to get the money out of my head. Same as with anyone else; when everything’s going well you don’t really worry about how much things cost,” he says. “At the end of the day, if I could retire knowing I had made a career out of something I love, I’d consider that a success.” Ryan and his partner, Anneka (who works for a sport marketing company involved with the European Tour) will soon enjoy a family Christmas in Beachlands before returning to the UK. Ryan will then be into the swing of things once again, playing one of the world’s oldest sports. “It’ll be nice to have a Kiwi summer and some time off. We have no real season any more; it’s pretty full-on year-round. I could play up to 44 weeks of the year, if I really wanted to, but that’s a little too much travel and, as much as I love it, too much golf!” www.eastlife.co.nz

A most exclusive club Sport is a passion shared by the Foxs of Beachlands. Professional golfer, Ryan Fox, fondly remembers the day he first defeated his father (All Black great, Grant) on the green. “I think the first time I beat him in anything – bar table tennis and pool, which don’t really count – was when I was about 15 and we played Formosa Golf Course. I don’t think he liked it much!” he grins. “You have to be competitive (which we both are) to play sport at the highest level. There’s always been a lot of ‘friendly’ competition between us, and we both enjoy winding each other up.” But there’s more to Ryan’s sporting pedigree than that offered by his famous father. Ryan’s mother, Adele, was an accomplished tennis player, and her father, Merv Wallace, captained the New Zealand cricket team in the 1950s. It’s fair to say that sport is in Ryan’s genes. “Our family has always loved sport. When I was little, my granddad [Merv] made wooden clubs and I’d whack balls around the back yard. I also remember him bowling to me when I was about three, barely old enough to hold a bat. And, of course, we used to kick rugby balls around all the time,” he recalls. “However, the most important thing I learnt from them was that success in anything comes down to hard work. I play golf most days, probably about 300 rounds a year, including practice. You can’t just rely on natural talent; if you don’t put in the hard work, you’ll be left behind pretty quickly in this game.” Despite playing first-five for his First XV, following in Grant’s boot prints was always unlikely for Ryan. He pursued a number of sports but golf would prove the winner. “I probably had a few too many concussions to even consider carrying on with rugby and I certainly didn’t have the same passion for the game as Dad. Cricket was my number one sport for a time but I soon found I enjoyed golf more. “I caught the bug, as people say, when I was a kid. On weekends or school holidays I wanted to play golf with my mates, although my first decent tournament wasn’t until I was 18. Considering Lydia Ko was world number one by that age, it was a late start.” While no longer on his bag, it seems proud dad, Grant, remains in his kid’s corner. “Dad absolutely loved caddying for me. But, from the beginning of 2015, he stepped away. It was getting a little hard because we were both almost too invested in my performance; a professional can be a lot more objective,” Ryan explains. “I couldn’t put a price on having Dad around, and both he and mum have always been very supportive. He understands the game really well and, obviously, is a great help with how to deal with the psychological side of sport.” www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 | Photo Wayne Martin

An island to yourself for Christmas? When Cliff Richard sang, “We’re All Going on a Summer Holiday” back in the 1960’s he couldn’t have imagined the kind of exciting 2016 family vacation Kiwi super-mums and camping enthusiasts Liz Henderson and Sonia Minaar have come up with. Knowing all too well the hassles that often come with camping out, the Wellington pair started Canopy Camping eight years ago – chic camping sites offering off-the-grid ‘glamour camping’ experiences around the country.

BOTANY

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Running every day over the Xmas-New Year holiday period (27 Dec to 3 Jan)

It took some hard graft as they approached land owners around the country – farmers, small block owners, lifestylers and others for use of their land. By 2012 their glamour camping enterprise was in full swing helped along by an episode of Country Calendar on their first camp site. Intended to deliver the wonders of camping in nature but none (or, almost none) of the hassles, these novel holidays could save campers a lot of time, money and effort. “We both love camping but at this time of year, as all mothers know, it’s such a huge chore packing and organising food and bedding and then unpacking it all at the site – it’s enormous,” Liz says.

“With glamour camping you can turn up in beautiful New Zealand wilderness and your luxury tent or accommodation is all laid on with beds, blankets, food and comfort – in some cases you’ll even have an en suite. It’s the ultimate, off-the-grid, digital detox experience without any effort.” At this time of year, glamping sites book up rapidly which is why Liz and Sonia are offering Christmas glamping vouchers. What’s more, there are some special sites including a shrub-covered Hobbit home in the Waikato, a retro caravan in Nelson, an exclusive Kapiti Island glamp and vast, open, ocean, hill-top tents in the Wairarapa. And, now, there’s an extra special addition – a private island retreat. Slipper Island has just been added to their selection. “It’s a small, private island, just three kilometres to the east of the Coromandel Peninsula and easily accessed via a short, 15-minute water taxi ride from Tairua or

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Check out the reviews on www.tripadvisor.com 22 | eastlife | december 2016

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Pauanui,” Sonia explains. “It’s a taste of island paradise with two-room luxury tents just a few steps from a beautiful, white sand beach with sensational ocean views.” While many sites are booked for Christmas there were a few new locations still available as EastLife went to print including sites at Lake Tarawera, Northland and Waiheke Island.

‘

For information about Canopy Camping Escapes – a collection of glamping and off-grid huts around New Zealand visit www.canopycamping.co.nz www.facebook.com/canopycamping Email: hello@canopycamping.co.nz Ask about glamping vouchers, too.

the unpacking that goes with it. And for those who can take their breaks down the track a glamping voucher could be just the ticket especially for those who love camping but dread the inconvenience of loading up the trailer twice over and all

Vouchers include either a two night stay at any site or are available in denominations of $200 which can be put toward any glamour camping holiday.

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eastlife | december 2016 |

Win! Great kids books thE AwESOME bOOk Of rAP, rhyME AnD PutriD POEtry If this book offers what it says on its cover, children and the child-like are in for a treat! From the bestselling author of The Fartionary and Andy Jones & the Funky Monkey comes another enticingly funny book. EastLife has THREE copies of this book up for grabs. See the competitions section of our website, eastlife.co.nz, to be in to win. One entry per person/email address; entries close December 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email. • Andy Jones: The Awesome Book of Rap, Rhyme and Putrid Poetry | RRP $16.99 | HarperCollins NZ

wOrD Of MOuSE The pitter-patter of tiny feet heralds the arrival of Patterson’s latest hero. After making his escape from a mysterious laboratory, Isaiah sets out

to find his family. Word of Mouse tells the story of one lone (and unique) rodent in an often hostile world.

• James Patterson: Word of Mouse | RRP $19.99 | Young Arrow / Penguin Random House

With the help of an equally unusual and lonely human girl, Isaiah must encounter cruel cats, hungry owls and terrified people during his epic adventure.

thE cAt in thE cAgE AnD OthEr grEAt StOriES fOr kiDS

EastLife has a copy of this book up for grabs. To be in to win, simply complete the competition form at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address per book; entries close December 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

The wealth of wonderful children’s books on the market should make Christmas giving easy but in reality there are so many fine titles it can be difficult to know just what is relevant and wholesome reading for youngsters. The Cat in the Cage and Other

Great Stories for Kids is an exciting collection of stories packed full of adventure for children to read by themselves or with their family. These brand-new stories are funny, exciting, and full of good ways to handle the problems that every kids can have. Parents – while your children are reading these entertaining stories, they’re also learning about developing self-esteem, dealing with fear, making choices, living in blended families, and many other issues – so suitable for today’s modern society. Available from the Adventist Bookshop presently in Ben Lomond Drive, Pakuranga but thanks to the shop we also have a copy to give away. To be in to win, simply complete the competition form at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address per book; entries close December 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email. • Jerry D Thomas: The Cat in the Cage and Other Great Stories for Kids | RRP $12.99 | Pacific Press Publishing

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24 | eastlife | december 2016

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Summer fun

has begun! Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner Caryn Mawkes suggests ways to make the holidays fun.

• Take a tour of your local police or fire station. Since most locations don’t have set visiting hours, call ahead to arrange an appointment. • Build a backyard obstacle course with hula hoops, skipping ropes and other items found in the home. • Many factories offer tours so kids can see their favourite products being created from start to finish. • Get up early, pack some tasty food and have a sunrise breakfast. • Create a treasure hunt for the kids (leaving clues around the house). • Have a water balloon fight, let the kids toss them at each other or you. • Visit the public library, these often offer free summer reading programmes. • Listen to a concert in the park. Many parks have free summer concert series day and night. • Set up your own camping holiday in the back garden. • Take a picnic lunch and head to the airport and watch the planes landing and taking off. • Go on a bush walk – take some old

s talls Free ine life for t h sea t! of t he

...Is yours? Have your car seat installed by a certified child restraint technician at Baby On The Move – Botany.

Wow, the temperature is starting to rise and another school year has come to an end. Over the Christmas break we certainly all want our children to keep learning, exploring and, of course, have fun. If you’re looking for some activities for your kids, then check out our list of ideas for keeping them busy over the holidays! From walks to messy activities we’ve come up with 20 cheap and cheerful activities that will have kids craving to head outdoors this summer.

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OPEN Monday to Saturday, 9.00am - 4.30pm. Sunday, by appointment.

bread to feed the ducks, there are plenty of tracks around the city. • Check out a local ‘Farmers Market’ – most tend to be on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. • Visit strawberry fields and pick your own strawberries. • Climb one of Auckland’s many volcanic mountains. • Set up a slippery slide in the garden with black rubbish bags or polythene. • Go sand-boarding at a beach and zoom down the sand dunes. All you need is a cardboard box as a base. • Explore the tunnels at North Head in Devonport – don’t forget your torch. • Watch a free outdoor movie at one of your local parks. • Have a cake and lemonade stand to fundraise for a local charity. • Family bike ride – there are plenty of bike paths and tracks around the city. Don’t let your kids be bored this summer! Get moving and be creative. Have fun this summer!

Unit K, 301 Botany Road, Golflands, Auckland OPEN Monday to Saturday, 9.00am - 4.30pm. OPEN Monday to Saturday, 9.00am - 4.30pm. Sunday, by a Sunday, by appointment.

09 274 5313 / 0800 222 966 www.babyonthemove.co.nz 14708-v2

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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

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A new leaf for summer ‘ Whatever is one to do to pass the time during those lazy days of summer? Fortunately, bookish sorts need never be left short of ways to pass the time, thanks to these top new and recent releases.

The Princess Diarist

As the daughter of Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie was destined to be a Hollywood princess living amongst the stars. However, few would have envisaged she would become a princess in a galaxy far, far away! Fresh from reprising her most famous role, Carrie Fisher provides a candid account of life behind the scenes of the iconic Star Wars film series in this, her latest book. From the insanity of celebrity, to the absurdity of life, The Princess Diarist boldly goes where no book has gone before... not even ones about that certain other star-studded series! • Carrie Fisher: The Princess Diarist | RRP $40 | Bantam Press / Penguin Random House

The Award Steel yourself for another epic tale from the pen of one of the world’s most popular storytellers! In a matter of months, 16-year-old Gaëlle de

Barbet sees her father and brother killed, her mother descend into madness, and her closest friend sent to a detention camp in the wake of the Nazi invasion. During a saga which spans both sides of the Atlantic, Danielle’s heroine must struggle against her country’s invaders and, later, the past itself.

• Danielle Steel: The Award | RRP $37 | Bantam Press / Penguin Random House

cold Blood Nick Stone may be as hard as nails but even he could crack when faced with a murderer operating from within. In this page-turner – the latest from the author of Bravo Two Zero – Nick must muster all his skills during his mission to the North Pole. When veteran soldiers he’s accompanying begin to fall victim to foul play, only Nick can save the day! • Andy McNab: Cold Blood | RRP $37 | Bantam Press / Penguin Random House

WIN! To be in to win one (or possibly all) of these books, simply complete the competitions forms at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address per book; entries close December 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

The Chocolate Tin First she gave us perfume, now author, Fiona McIntosh, has another gift in mind. Following her bestselling novel, The Perfumer’s Secret, Fiona presents a tale of love, loss and a mysterious message. From the battlefields of northern France to York, The Chocolate Tin shows just how bittersweet life can be. • Fiona McIntosh: The Chocolate Tin | RRP $37 | Michael Joseph / Penguin Random House

I’ll Take You There Monday nights at the movies have

never been quite this exciting! When film scholar, Felix, sets up a film in the projectionist booth of a former vaudeville theatre, life soon begins to mimic art. With the ghost of a silent film director as his guide, Felix revisits and relives scenes from his past through the cinema screen during a story which explores feminism, family secrets and the power of women. • Wally Lamb: I’ll Take You There | RRP $37 | Hutchinson / Penguin Random House

Tom Clancy’s True Faith and Allegiance Jack’s back and tough as ever! In his latest adventure, Tom Clancy’s unsinkable agent is out to thwart the maniacal machinations of shadowy forces intent on dragging the USA into a ground war with ISIS. From Tehran to Jakarta, Maryland to Macedonia, this page turner takes Jack Ryan through a story of action-packed intrigue with Navy Commanders and CIA and FBI agents thrown in for good measure. • Mark Greaney: Tom Clancy’s True Faith and Allegiance | RRP $37 | Michael Joseph / Penguin Random House

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26 | eastlife | december 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

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 December 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

win! vEggiE SPirAliZEr Every chef appreciates a helpmate and George Foreman has punched out the perfect kitchen companion – a standalone, electric spiralizer ideal for creating vegetable and fruit ribbons, noodles, slices and spirals. Black with a chrome trim, it features dishwasher safe parts, a 1.35L container (with lid), four blades and a motor, which performs up to four times faster than manual spiralising to make meal preparation easy. The good news is EastLife has one George Foreman Veggie Spiralizer (RRP $189.99) up for grabs – will you be the lucky winner?

win! $100 cuff cAfE vOuchEr Holidays, long summer evenings, a desire to relax are all good reasons for eating out – no prepping the evening meal and no washing up! So, foodies who like the idea of escaping the kitchen can be in with a chance to win a $100 voucher to dine at Cuff Cafe in the Highland Park Shopping Centre. Cafe by day, licensed restaurant by night, Cuff’s evening menu offers a culinary adventure with many innovative flavours and textures. So don’t miss your chance to be in the draw – the winner’s sure to say, ‘Yum!’

win! $260+ MAnukA hOnEy PAckS How sweet is this giveaway? Thanks to the wonderful folk at Crown Range Cellar, we have not one, but two prize packs which are fit for a king! Our lucky winners will each receive three 500g jars of Manuka honey (three varieties), two bottles of Manuka drinks and a pack of Blackcurrant Power – total value more than $260! To read more about this range (available at Farro Fresh markets and via crownrangecellar.com) and learn how to make Blackcurrant and Manuka & Lemon Honey Bliss Balls) see page 45.

win! gOrgEOuS trilOgy gift triO The Trilogy Limited Edition gift pack of Repair & Protect with Rosapene (RRP $54.99) is perfect for anyone who enjoys luxurious skincare. This gorgeous, certified natural and cruelty-free trio is beautifully packaged and includes a full size Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+, Trilogy Cream Cleanser (30ml), and Trilogy Vital Moisturising Cream (20ml). Enriched with Trilogy’s potent antioxidant complex Rosapene™, it offers everything you need to cleanse, repair and protect skin for a radiant result. Best of all we have one to giveaway – perfect for keeping skin in prime summer condition.

win! nEw ZEAlAnD winE by wArrEn MOrAn From Central Otago to Kumeu, Waipara to Wairarapa, Kiwis have been developing wines of note for more than half a century. And, during this time, geographer and wine enthusiast Warren Moran has followed the development of the industry, talking with its people and sampling their wares. The result is a book which is as much about the rich and colourful nature of our landscape and the people who inhabit it as it is about the tipples they’ve created for our tables. EastLife has a copy of this book to give away. • Warren Moran: New Zealand Wine – the land, the vines, the people | RRP $69.99 | Auckland University Press

win! fibrE OnE SnAck PAckS New, low-calorie Fibre One Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Lemon Drizzle Squares are snack time treats that aim to keep waistlines trim but won’t let you down in the hunger department. With just 90 calories per square, these naturally high in fibre, soft-baked squares are big on the yum factor! Chocolate Fudge Brownie is packed with chocolate flavoured fudge pieces and chocolate flavoured drizzle, while Lemon Drizzle Squares feature lemon flavoured pieces and lemon flavoured drizzle. If that has you salivating, the good news is we have two prize packs to give away, each one includes two boxes of Fibre One treats – Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Lemon Drizzle Squares.

for last month’s Eastlife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

Cryptic Puzzle

time 1

NO. 10029

ACROSS

DOWN

6. All gone, all right (7,4). 7. A house, or stable (4). 8. Continuations of the hankypanky (6-2). 9. Does he order people about in the bank? (6). 10. Flashy and fishy? (6). 12. Because the players are inside, whispers (6). 15. The drunken sot in the vehicle gets the wheel (6). 17. An associate one is at home with (4-4). 19. A demure grey (4). 20. Does he give breakfast to the boss, then invite you to have a drink? (5-6).

1. Tripped over a pole and fell (8). 2. Feel the fringe is wrong (6). 3. Urging one to put on the left gaiter (6). 4. There’s much more to it than meets the eye! (4). 5. Sees the ring in turn and bends over (6). 6. One’s wrong about one sound (5). 11. During the breaks, Jack gets it going again (8). 13. Takes pictures of fires (6). 14. From various viewpoints, slopes (6). 15. Foreigner who has come out of a trance (6). 16. The alternative cover is different (5). 18. The fellow has caught nothing but carp (4).

Puzzle answers on page 74

Sudoku

puzzle no. 29

Quick Puzzle

NOW OPEN!

ACROSS

DOWN

6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 12. 15. 17. 19. 20.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 11. 13. 14. 15. 16. 18.

Considerable (11) Gasp (4) Hallucination (8) Holding (6) Lax (6) Behind (6) Unmarried (6) Musical instrument (8) Open (4) Abandonment (11)

No. 10029

Obscure (8) Walk (6) Horn (6) Peck (4) Permits (6) Tremble (5) Fruit (8) Robust (6) Agile (6) Inflexible (6) Master (5) Grain (4)

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28 | eastlife | december 2016

14720

Puzzle

www.eastlife.co.nz

Suited for summer With temperatures starting to rise and sunny days on the cards, readers will soon be in the swim but not before checking out new season swimwear styles! The Moontide 2016/17 collection is designed to fit, flatter and give beach confidence with poolside elegance a priority. This season’s prints and textures have been inspired by global traditions. Tropical Florals can be found paired with contrasting prints creating the illusion of texture in mid tones of paradise or

majestic jewel shades. The magnificent hues of the ocean fading to the more serene blues and greys of lapping waves are showcased in Raw Coast while Stark Shadow pays attention to simple shapes. With minimal styling, the monochromatic prints of the latter work perfectly with the return to sporting aesthetic. Finally, Tribal Shibori sees traditional elements updated and paired with textures for a contemporary tribal twist.

➊

➋

➌

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1. Botanical Twist u/w Ruched Front Suit, RRP $149.99. 2. Vintage Rose u/w Vintage Long Line Top, RRP $114.99, 50’s Pant, RRP $69.99. 3. Brush Work Mesh High Neck Top, RRP $79.99. 4. Flora Belle u/w Twist Top, RRP $94.99, High Rushed Front Pant, RRP $74.99 5. V Neck Crochet Cover, RRP $69.99. www.eastlife.co.nz

➎ eastlife | december 2016 |

Biba Sleeveless Dress RRP $149.95

Cross It Off Dress RRP $149.95

eless T imversatility!

Marsha Sleeveless Dress RRP $149.95

Effortless, Everyday, Style – fashion label, Elm’s mission is just that simple and perfectly sums up its new season collection. Offering an easy, relaxed approach to summer, the latest range features pops of colour, flattering cuts with clean lines and a dash of layering especially when it comes to knits.

Indie Off The Shoulder Top RRP $99.95

Iris Trapeze Dress RRP $149.95

Attractive to a broad market, inspiration has been taken from art and homewares, appealing to those who look for pattern and style spontaneity. Fresh, easy-care, cool and comfortable, Elm takes summer in its stride – available at various outlets including Flo & Frankie Newmarket.

Beautiful jewellery at fabulous prices!

14431

30 | eastlife | december 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

➊

➋

Go bohemian

➌

➍

1. Louie Halter Tank RRP $189. 2. Amelie Bo Top RRP $189. 4. Dylan Top RRP $159. 3. Bowie Cami RRP $189. Etoile Dress RRP $239.

with Ellis

New local women’s wear label, ELLIS, aspires to offer Kiwi women effortless, transitional pieces that are feminine but will provide easy luxe comfort for everyday wear or special occasions. ELLIS’ design director, Ellis Hong says her team was inspired by the relaxed L.A. street vibe, where girls are effortlessly dressed with an air of casual coolness about them.

in order to produce garments of a high standard which reflect current trends. “It will also allow ELLIS garments to stay purely New Zealand-made from conception through to production and distribution,” says Hong.

“We wanted every day to be easy for ELLIS girls,” she says

“We want to ensure each piece is special and ethically made with love and we hope this will give shoppers something to look forward to as we develop more exciting designs in the future.”

After the release of its initial six pieces in November, ELLIS plans to follow up with monthly drops of two to three new pieces in limited fabrics

ELLIS will be exclusively sold through retail partner, Ellis & Friends, as part of the outlet’s growing portfolio of designer brands.

➎

Check out our website www.terraceshair.co.nz

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells Christmas time,

Jingle all the way... mistletoe and wine..

00482-v8

We’d like to say thank you to all our clients and wish you some moments of comfort and good cheer at this busy time.

HOLIDAY HOURS Mon 19 Dec Dec 9am 9am to 8pm Mon 21 to 8pm Tues 20 Dec 9am to 8pm Tues 22 Dec 9am to 8pm Wed 21 Dec 9am to 7pm Wed 22 23Dec Dec 9am to 8pm Thu 9am to 8pm Thur Dec 8:30am to 2pm Fri 2324 Dec 9am to 5pm Sat 24 Dec 9am to noon We’re taking a break until... We’re taking a break until… Tues 4 5 Jan Jan Open at 9am Wed Open at 9am

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

Beauty counter HATCH INTO YOUR SUMMER BODY! Summer’s coming, time to get your beach body ready. GO Healthy’s new GO Slim Garcinia Gold is intended to help you manage your weight. This stimulant-free formula supports healthy fat metabolism, helps manage appetite and cravings and is a natural energy booster. It combines three key ingredients: 1) Mangosteen, the rind of which contains a powerful blend of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins.; 2) East Indian Globe Thistle to support healthy levels of the hormone adiponectin, which aids fat management; 3) Garcinia cambogia, containing hydroxycitric acid, shown to support healthy brain levels of serotonin, which helps manage emotional eating and cravings. GO Healthy GO Slim Garcinia Gold (60 caps RRP$34.90 60 Caps and 120caps RRP$59.90), available at major pharmacies and health stores.

TRANSFORM YOU SKIN Here’s the easy way to achieve a beautiful, even skin tone! Osmosis CC Cream is a natural-looking, colour correcting makeup which offers UV protection and gives the skin a bright, even tone with lifting and hydrating benefits. Featuring ‘True Tone Technology’ this natural makeup is encapsulated in micro-capsules which burst on application to provide perfect pigments, transforming into your own skin tone when applied. Light lifting effects diffuse skin discoloration while giving the enhanced appearance of a brighter, more youthful complexion. Available in four shades to match skin tones with ease (RRP $93). www.osmosisskin.co.nz

COLOURFUL CHRISTMAS GIFTS! Put a little colour into your Christmas giving with Living Nature’s new permanent line gift packs offering the perfect solution for the lipstick lovers in your life (or treat for yourself!). Housed in a gorgeous gift box, Living Nature’s Lipstick Packs (RRP $75) each contain three certified natural/organic lipsticks in complementing shades. For a touch of glamour, romance and warmth, check out: the Colour Me Vibrant pack of Pure Passion, Wild Fire & Coral Sea; the Colour Me Romantic pack of Bloom, Laughter & Summer Rain and the Natural Collection with Warm Wood, Sandstone and Precious. Living Nature’s Gift Packs are available at participating stockists and online at www.livingnature.com

Nourishing path to all-day dewy skin Fresh on the market Dermalogica’s feather-light, Phyto Replenish Oil is designed to strengthen and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier, shielding against environmental stressors, smoothing visible lines, and locking in critical moisture. With its many phyto-actives to solve dehydration and dryness, Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil works in three phases; the first to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier with camellia and tamanu oils; the second phase is to hydrate with orchid flower and chia seed oils; and the third to create a luminous antioxidant shield against free radical damage using extracts from sunflower, rice bran and rosemary. Available from some 120 authorised Dermalogica stockists and dermalogica.co.nz (RRP $139).

Southern Man inspired by nature Those men with a sense of adventure and love for the great outdoors should be keeping their skin in prime condition with Southern Man, a revitalising range inspired by the natural elements of New Zealand’s South Island. Created by Matakana Botanicals using locally-sourced Manuka honey, harakeke and olive oil, the Southern Man fragrance combines notes of basil, sage and cedar wood, and is ideal for today’s active man or a special gift for a special beau!

32 | eastlife | december 2016

PARTY SEASON MUST-HAVE When it’s time to remove every trace of makeup then look to Trilogy’s Make-Up Be Gone Cleansing Balm to leave skin smooth, soft and perfectly cleansed! Softening on contact with warm skin and massaging easily onto the face, it removes foundation, mascara and lipstick, even long-wear and waterproof formulations. With skin-soothing mango butter and pure oils of coconut, sunflower and rosehip, this balm is a single step to clean, hydrated, supple skin. Its rich texture makes it a great option for dry skin in need of extra moisture and the all-natural ingredients list reads like a delicious cookie recipe! Trilogy Make-Up Be Gone Cleansing Balm (80ml RRP $39.99) available from Farmers, pharmacies and health stores. www.eastlife.co.nz

Allure of the exotic!

Women who love jewellery designed with exceptional flair will surely find the striking array of necklaces from Naga by Nevara irresistible.

confidence. Hand-selected content also incorporates rare and special beads that are yours and yours alone, making these pieces unique

One of a kind, exotic necklaces composed of hand-selected materials from all over Asia they feature creative use of sterling silver, jade and semi precious stones.

These â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;go everywhereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; necklaces constantly attract compliments, their individuality and eye-catching designs taking their cue from the markets of such diverse countries as Nepal, Africa, China and Burma and many more.

Each stunning piece is individually designed and constructed here in New Zealand with a sense of the dramatic to be worn with the

www.eastlife.co.nz

www.nagabynevara.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

33 14580

Taking a makeup rest

Beautiful textiles, yarns, haberdashery and much more, all at affordable prices

This month Vivo Hair & Beauty, Howick focuses on resting and nurturing your skin

5/10 24 Wellington St, Howick (behind Monterey Cinemas) Phone 09 5358845, www.elegantfabric.co.nz

13669

MARINA PLASTIC SURGERY “SURGERY BY THE SEA”

The biggest trend of the year by far was the #nomakeup movement, which is swiftly gaining momentum across the world. The makeup-free movement has empowered women, and, of course, going makeup-free can also help the skin.

■ Facial Plastic Surgery for skin cancers, treatment of melanoma, BCC (Basal Cell Carcinoma), SCC (Squamous Cell Carcinoma) and various skin lesions ■ Cosmetic Plastic Surgery – Face lifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, breast augmentation, reduction and reconstruction, abdominoplasty, liposuction and liposculpture, hand surgery, injectable dermal ﬁllers etc

Vivo senior beauty therapist, Sue, suggests taking a couple of days off a week from makeup. “Even two days of no makeup a week can give your skin a huge breather, just don’t forget your moisturiser and sun block.”

■ Mole Checks

As the weather warms it is also of utmost importance to up SPF usage – “while it is important to protect your skin through all seasons, Sue advises that summer is the time to up your SPF level.

Marina Specialists

Martin Rees Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive & Hand Surgeon

A new year is just around the corner and that means changing up routines and making lifestyle changes. Now is also the best time to start switching up your beauty regime.

First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina Ph 534 4040 • Fax 537 0147 www.plassurg.co.nz • EDI: marinasp

urgery”

“High quality s

01219

Sue’s product of choice? Aspect Envirostat Dry Touch sunscreen, which is water resistant, fragrancefree and non-greasy, so it’s ideal for makeup or makeup-free days. In addition, its small size means you can take it with you on the go – perfect for a summer beach day out!

Beauty therapist, Jasween, who makes a point of opting for makeupfree days says her best accessory is her eyelashes and eyebrows. “Eyebrows are what I like to call, face-framers. So, find the shape that works for you and run with it; you’d be surprised at how a simple tweak to eyebrow routine can switch up your face completely.” Jasween suggests having eyebrows professionally shaped and revised every four to six weeks depending on hair growth. “If you want thicker and fuller lashes, I recommend using LiLash & Librow. Both are products I swear by; they give great results and they make great gifts too!”

We are dedicated to your personal well-being through dental health

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Taking medication? Dr Katharine Martin MB.BS, DRCOG, MRCGP from Howick House Medical discusses the importance of taking medication correctly.

This month we welcome Dr Yaw Moh (pictured) to the practice. Dr Moh is an experienced GP who grew up in Howick, was educated in Pakuranga, and graduated from Auckland Medical School in 1995. He will be working two days a week and will be pleased to accept new patients. Dr Moh’s special interests are paediatrics, minor surgery and all things general practice! He lives locally with his pharmacist wife, Jessica, and two young sons. This month I would also like to talk about medication. Did you know that a third of us do not take a course of antibiotics as they are prescribed? More startling is that more than half of us do not take long-term medication as we should. This figure increases if the condition being treated does not have symptoms such as high blood pressure or raised cholesterol. It is very important to tell your doctor if you have stopped taking your medication. Experiencing side effects is a common reason for not

Feeding the skin with skin-loving peptides jody burke, owner of About Skin is a CIDESCO and Cibtac qualified beauty therapist and a qualified advanced skin trainer with more than 20 years experience. Here she talks about giving your skin a work out. Developed by award-winning skin scientist, Dr Peter T. Pugliese, in conjunction with New Zealand skin therapists, the ‘Firming Peptide Enzyme’ is a unique dermal treatment that delves deep into the skin to increase cellular activity of aged and mature skin.

taking medication. There is often a different medicine that will agree with you and won’t result in side effects.

By occluding and delivering a complex of skin-loving peptides and building blocks that our cells yearn for, combined with highly active botanicals, we are able to stimulate the skin safely, help oxygenate it through vasodilatation and supply anti-glycation (sugar detox) components which reduce the chaos that sugar creates in the skin.

It is important that you know why you are taking each medication – your pharmacist or doctor will be able to tell you if you are not sure. It is also easy to become muddled if taking more than one or two medications. But, fortunately, it is possible to have tablets packaged in a blister pack by the pharmacist. This makes it easy to taking the right amount of tablets and the right time of day. Once tablets have been dispensed by the pharmacist they cannot be re-used so tablets not consumed across the whole of New Zealand is very costly to the health service.

There is no down-time with this treatment yet it has a very healthy, stimulating effect on the skin. The treatment takes approximately 45mins in the form of a mask being gently brushed on after a skin analysis and cleanse. As the mask dries it activates the skin and sets. With its soybean and a dried honey powder base, the mask creates a lifting effect, delivering deep into the skin powerful immuno-stimulants, beta-glucan, glumatic acid, energystimulating L-carnitine and aspartic acid, as well as anti-glycation L-carnosine.

With Christmas fast approaching can I remind everyone taking regular medication to ensure they have enough to last throughout the holiday period. If you know or think you may fall short, order a repeat prescription well in advance so that your surgery has time to issue it.

The activator used to mix with the professional formula includes antioxidant green and white tea, antimicrobial and calming agent witch

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The overall effect is like taking the skin to the gym for a work out but all the ingredients do the work – oxygenation, lymphatic drainage, delivery of complex peptides, and firming and toning the skin to leave a lighter, brighter and smoother complexion, all for only $99.

hazel, and well as a complex of other anti-inflammatory and flavonoids including chamomile, marigold flower extract, horsetail and comfrey leaf extract. The overall effect is like taking the skin to the gym for a work out but all the ingredients do the work – oxygenation, lymphatic drainage, delivery of complex peptides, and firming and toning the skin to leave a lighter, brighter and smoother complexion, all for only $99. Finishing formulas are customised then applied to each client for the eyes and face followed by a SPF sunscreen. About Skin is a specialised skin care clinic which provides customised treatments for each client on the basis of their skin type, age and environment. Contact us to maximise the benefits of our advanced treatments for your skin.

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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. “It is a blessing to be privy to all the new technology as it updates. “Each course attended allows us to actually work with new materials and techniques, which makes being a Clinical Dental Technician at this time very exciting and rewarding,” she says, keeping herself updated by regularly attending workshops and courses. “Most partial dentures have anchors called clasps which are used to retain the denture in your mouth. “These can sometimes show and ruin a beautiful smile. “Now we are 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, Clinical Dental Technician B Tech Dent Tech (Natal). PG Dip Clin Dent Tech (Otago)

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

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

36 | eastlife | december 2016

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

Suffering from foot pain? Stefan R. Edwards FNZCPS MChS, Podiatric Surgeon Dip.Pod. Surg.B.Sc.(Hons)Pod.Med.M.NZ.C.Pod.Surg. International Affiliate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

Treating bunions:

increasingly prominent.

Even though bunions are a common foot deformity, people suffer unnecessarily with painful bunions for years, avoiding treatment that historically has earned a poor reputation in causing extreme pain and failed results.

Bunions are most often caused by an inherited faulty mechanical structure of the foot. It is not the bunion itself that is inherited but certain foot types that make a person prone to developing a bunion.

Thankfully, advances in the understanding and the treatment of this deformity are changing this reputation for the better. A bunion is often described as a bump on the side of the big toe, however, a bunion is more than that. The visible bump actually reflects changes in the bony framework of the front part of the foot. They begin with a leaning of the big toe, gradually changing the angle of the bones over the years and slowly producing the characteristic bump that becomes

before

after findings, age and your activity level.

Symptoms can include pain, irritation with footwear, inflammation, burning sensations or numbness, pain at the ball of the foot, arch cramping, midfoot pain and infection.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a variety of surgical procedures available. The procedures are designed to remove the bump of bone, correct the changes in the bony structure of the foot and correct soft tissue changes that may also have occurred. The goal of surgery is the reduction of your pain and the deformity.

Bunions are progressive and will usually get worse over time however, not all cases are alike and some bunions progress more rapidly than others.

The length of the recovery period will vary depending on the procedure performed and will depend on factors that include: the extent of your deformity that is based on x-ray

Although wearing shoes that crowd the toes will not actually cause bunions, they can worsen the progression of the deformity.

The majority of my patients return to weight-bearing activity three to four weeks post-operative with no need for the use of general anaesthetic, hospitalisation or casting. They also report post-operative discomfort rather than pain that resolves 48 hours after surgery. If you do have any questions relating to your bunion or foot problem, please feel free to contact my rooms and we will do our best to help.

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Bariatric surgery benefits (also known as Weight Loss Surgery) Morbid obesity is a serious form of obesity which poses multiple risks to health and life. It is the biggest cause of cardiovascular diseases and premature death. Weight reduction surgery, with lifestyle and dietary modifications, will reverse most obesity related diseases including diabetes (type 2), mellitus, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnoea, asthma and incontinence. Arthritis and joint pain also improves. Weight loss surgery can reduce the risk of developing certain cancers

such as uterine, prostate, colon, breast, gall bladder and lung. We also see an improvement in hormonal balances in both men and women when this type of surgery is carried out. In women, it can reduce anovulation (lack of ovulation), infertility, hyperandrogenism (excessive male hormones causing facial hair) and polycystic ovarian syndrome. In men, it may improve hypo-gonadotropic and sexual functions including libido and erectile dysfunction. Weight Loss Surgery also improves

varicose veins, lower extremity venous issues and lymphatic oedema. Surgery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Improves surgical outcomes by reduction in postoperative complications such as wound infection, post-operative pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Habib Rahman With so many health issues improved, bariatric surgery is often referred to as the Surgery for Life. So, if you are considering Surgery for Life, talk to your doctor or visit the OWLS website www.ormistonhospital.co.nz

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mr Habib Rahman is a General and Bariatric Surgeon. He consults at Ormiston Surgeons, Ormiston Hospital, Botany Junction and can be contacted on (09) 277 8249.

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. 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. The aim of the surgery is to reduce the 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. When you choose Ormiston Hospital Weight Loss Service for your surgery, you choose the most experienced surgeons, treating you in the wellestablished Ormiston Hospital. 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.

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Black fillings A feast for

your eyes

a toxic subject

YVONNE VANNOORT, from Sanctuary Dental, Bishop Dunn Place, Botany talks about mercury fillings.

Kristine Jensen, Owner-Optometrist of Eyes of Howick talks about keeping your eyes beautiful with a diet rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids.

Black fillings – should they be removed and replaced with white ones? This is a frequently asked question. The answer is not as black and white as one might think. There are a number of factors to consider. The science, however, is clear – black (or silver) fillings are 50% mercury, and mercury is a highly toxic substance. There is some evidence that mercury may come off fillings especially when drinking hot beverages or when you eat. There is a very interesting video that shows this. It can be seen on You tube, search for, Smoking Teeth. Our bodies are complex systems that remove toxic substances continuously but when these systems become overwhelmed, or less efficient as we age, things can start to go wrong. Some people’s bodies are better at removing toxins than others so, the effects of mercury is likely to be different for each individual. Fillings are not the only things that expose us to mercury; there are other sources to which we are exposed in our environment such as seafood.

There is resounding evidence that eating your greens protects your macula (the central retina in the back of your eye) from age related degeneration. This helps preserve your central vision – so precious as this enables you to recognise the faces of your loved ones, read that pile of books or enable you to keep driving.

they can promote cracks in the tooth structure surrounding the filling. These cracked corners of tooth become sore to bite on and also sensitive to hot and cold drinks and foods. In fact, the amalgam filling can actually last longer than the tooth that it is filling. Replacing the filling and cracked tooth with modern materials helps hold the remaining tooth together and prevents further corners cracking or breaking off.

For instance; lutein and zeaxanthin are present in high concentrations in a healthy macula and are also associated with health of the eye’s crystalline lens. It is the job of these antioxidants to mop up any damagecausing free radicals that occur during normal cell metabolism.

So, if you are considering having amalgam fillings removed, talk to us. We will take care to ensure you don’t swallow any pieces or breathe in any vapour during the process.

The good news is we can bolster our macula’s antioxidant level with our diet:

We use a cover over the tooth (a rubber dam) while the filling is being removed so that small pieces don’t fall into your mouth and we also check that you don’t breathe in the mercury vapour that comes off the tooth as we remove the filling.

• Lutein and Zeaxanthin – rich dietary sources include kale, spinach, silverbeet and don’t forget; peas, cos lettuce, pumpkin, brussel sprouts, broccoli, corn, beans and even eggs. Other nutrients which support good macular health and their dietary sources include the following:

Feel free to give us a call if you have any concerns about old amalgam fillings and want them removed.

Another reason for removing mercury amalgam fillings is that

• Zinc – found in oysters, nuts and legumes

Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not to be used as a substitute for further professional, personalised advice. The views are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor.

• Vitamin E – from nuts, wheatgerm and other whole grains

• Vitamin C – plentiful in citrus, berries, capsicums and tomatoes • Selenium – found in meats, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts, especially Brazil nuts Furthermore, omega 3 fatty acids contained in oily fish, such as salmon, trout, sardines or tuna (or for vegetarian options; chia and flaxseeds), are anti-inflammatory power houses which help with conditions such as dry eye, macular degeneration and glaucoma. Free radicals and inflammation are considered responsible for a number of diseases such as cancer and heart disease. A diet rich in the nutrients mentioned above helps your body to be in peak working order and therefore able to neutralise those free radicals previously mentioned. If your diet is lacking, consider taking a supplement in consultation with your eye or health care professional. Otherwise, make these changes and your plate won’t just look and taste good but your eyes will be able to see clearly as well! If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration or you want more specific information please visit my blog post. https:// www.eyesofhowick.co.nz/kjs-blog/

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Healthy eating

Tips for the festive season The weeks leading into Christmas can be a very busy time of year. There are office parties, festive catch-ups and family gettogethers to attend or organise. Most of these social occasions are filled with temptations such as rich foods, alcohol and sugary treats. So, here are some healthy tips to help you negotiate festivities:

Fuel up at home beforehand Try to eat a small, healthy snack before heading out to a party or celebration so you are not too hungry when you arrive. This can help you avoid eating too much or craving sugary or salty treats.

Buffet style eating Never underestimate the visual power of food and how if effects the appetite. We generally eat more at buffets because

we like to try a bit of everything and too often we pile more than we can eat on one plate. Therefore, try and choose a smaller plate to help you pick smaller portions and opt for one, two or more small servings rather than a massive pile-up. That way it is easier to avoid over indulgence.

Festive Foods Make a conscious effort to balance your plate with plenty of bright fruits and vegetables to keep it colourful. If you are taking food to a party, why not take a salad full of seasonal vegetables. Summer is a great time of year for fresh fruits and vegetables and they make deliciously tasty, healthy party food for the whole family. – This article was submitted by the team at Jetts Fitness New Zealand.

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eastlife | december 2016 |

41 14585

City chef gets fresh In the highly competitive restaurant game, it’s not unusual to see crows circling, metaphorically speaking. However, Auckland’s Scarecrow appears to be thriving thanks, in part, to the enthusiasm of its head chef and former local, Damian Husted. JON RAWLINSON explains.

While he can certainly stand the heat, Damian Husted is no Gordon Ramsay. Instead, the talented head chef at Auckland City’s fashionable Scarecrow restaurant prefers to maintain a steady hand, and temper in the kitchen. “Some chefs have become famous for being aggressive, abusive and angry. No one performs at their peak when being screamed at, nor can a love of cooking be developed in such an environment,” he explains. “Fostering curiosity and talent is essential to making chefs realise their potential and want to perform better.“My best meals have been ones where I either had no idea what I was ordering, or I had given the chef carte blanche to cook whatever she or he wanted. Passionate chefs appreciate being trusted and will reciprocate exponentially when given the opportunity.” This approach has served Damian well, from earning him an extra small sized chef’s jacket (aged 13) to taking on his current role earlier this year. Bulgarian-born and Danish-raised, Damian moved with his family to Bucklands Beach in 2005. Now living in Auckland City, he has worked at such acclaimed restaurants as Bracu, DeBretts Kitchen and TriBeCa. Aside from some recent studies in food science and biology, the former Macleans College student has had little in the way of formal culinary education. Ironic, considering his parents’ shared occupation. They are both business professors at the University of Auckland. “I have been ‘lucky’ to attend a lot of academic events throughout my parents’ careers, such as conferences, dinners and inaugurations. I think that was a contributing factor to my diminished curiosity towards academia,” he laughs.

42 | eastlife | december 2016

Damien Husted – takes an ethical focus and loves to use organic produce. “I dreaded wasting time learning things already learnt in the kitchen just to obtain a diploma affirming skills I’d already acquired. The pure adrenaline, pace and atmosphere in the kitchen is near impossible [for me] to escape for longer than six to eight hours between shifts. Such raw energy is hard to switch off in order to sit through hour-long listening sessions in a classroom.” However, Damian asserts an education in the culinary sector is essential for some and does not

consider his own skills to be ‘self taught’. Instead, he believes that we all draw on the knowledge of others. He rates his parents as his most influential mentors. “They have always encouraged me to perform at my peak and constantly improve. I often chuckle at how much I have taken after both of them and I’m still learning from their drive, determination and tenacity.” From his early days at Copenhagen’s Olsen restaurant – where Damian

Photo Wayne Martin

had to stand on a bucket to reach the broiler! – the inquisitive cook became ‘addicted’ to preparing quality cuisine. “There wasn’t any one thing that made me decide to be a chef. It was all kind of addictive. The smell of the overnight braise and the chef’s cigarettes, along with the ‘danger’; adrenalin and pressure made an addictive combination I found very difficult to escape. “Good cooking is very physical and, www.eastlife.co.nz

to a certain extent, self-abusive. It’s interesting to see how far you can push yourself through both the physical and mental pain.” Since taking the reins at Scarecrow (which operates as both a restaurant/ cafe and market rolled into one), Damian’s enthusiasm for fresh ingredients and an ethical approach has grown. He says the atmosphere, produce and passion are fantastic. “An ethical focus and use of organic produce is not just advertised here, it’s practised; almost religiously. We have the freshest produce I’ve ever encountered in Auckland which we prepare with respect. An ethical

kitchen respects every person involved and each ingredient.” For New Zealand to establish its place on the world stage as a purveyor of fine dining, local chefs and customers must embrace fresh, seasonal ingredients from our own backyard, Damian says. “Although some products improve with age, most deteriorate, so [chefs] rely heavily on our growers and farmers. But, the only way to truly control freshness is by growing, killing and foraging our own produce. It also gives us a higher appreciation for the sacrifice of life behind each plate and increases our respect for nature.”

Cured duck If your goose isn’t cooked come Christmas, there is a cure. However, as good things take time (up to eight months in this case), it always pays to think ahead! Thanks Scarecrow head chef, Damian Husted, for this handy little recipe.

• 4 wild duck breasts • 300g raw sugar • 300g sea salt (no iodine) • 100g thyme • 250g good red wine (remember, good wine = good food!)

Mix salt, sugar and thyme by hand to a semi-uniform consistency. Cover duck breasts with a thick layer of the cure and leave for 48 hours.

Restaurant kitchens are not a place for the faint of heart. The heat, the intensity, and the noise are enough to give any novice chef the blues. Established to nurture emerging talent, the Blue Apron Collective (baC) helps apprentices develop their skills alongside seasoned professionals.“I started baC in 2014 when, lacking a creative outlet for my own food, I became convinced there were others that had the same passion and desire to challenge the public with our food,” Damian Husted explains. “The name draws on the old, French

tradition that apprentices wear blue aprons; only the ‘chef’ wears white. However, even senior baC chefs remain in blue, signifying that we are all constantly learning.”Through a variety of initiatives, including pop-up restaurants, baC provides budding chefs with opportunities to learn from their peers while taking their talents to the streets. “I don’t base the success of the baC on which chefs become famous or not. In our industry, it’s impossible to master every technique. Nobody cooks the best eggs every way. We aim to foster each other’s ideas and creativity in a ‘ten minds are better than one’ way.”

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eastlife | december 2016 |

Meating Christmas! This month local Aussie Butcher, Andrew Beatson, who proudly sells fresh pork, beef, lamb and chicken of New Zealand origin, talks about Christmas feasting and summer barbecues.

Take time out to visit

Thyme Cafe We live in a country of coffee lovers, but these days there’s more to the cafe business than a coffee and a scone as JOHN WINTERS discovered. A cafe with a unique blend of delightful location and free entertainment for children is ringing the changes in Highland Park.

Helen has a passion for serving good food and excellent coffee. Her two goals when taking over the cafe was to spruce it up and provide somewhere for parents to take the kids with the needs of both well served.

“There’s an enclosed play area for the little kids where they can amuse themselves while their parents enjoy a leisurely coffee.”

The Aussie Butcher Botany, on Ti Rakau Drive/Torrens Rd, is packed with premium meats including cooked hams on the bone, cooked champagne hams, cooked NZ freerange hams, cooked boneless hams and raw hams on the bone. So, ham it up – there’s one for every situation! What’s more our Manuka-smoked hams are smoked in the store itself.

Those who plan to have the barbecue going on Christmas Day and all summer long, should also check out our great selection of barbecue meats and sausages – or come along to one of our in-store cooking demonstrations being held throughout this month. “It’s a great place we have here,” she says. “People can sit outside and enjoy the many flowers and plants in the garden centre while having a coffee and trying the various items we have on our menu. It’s an idyllic setting.” To step up the homemade content of the food at Thyme, Helen has been joined by Debbie Naeff from Ti Tuhi Cafe, Pakuranga, It’s Debbie’s job to focus on making cakes, slices and cabinet food.

She’s now plans to arrange an event for youngsters during each school holiday break and has already invited “The Bee Lady” along to talk to a large group of children and parents about bees and how they make honey.

“I do hope visitors to the garden centre will delay their departure to pop in and try what we have to offer,” Helen says. “They will find there’s always a warm welcome here and great food if they make time for Thyme!”

And, remember, we can provide all meat products for corporate functions, staff Christmas parties and

family feasts. But if you are intending to escape the city to the family bach or campsite, here at the Aussie Butcher we can vacuum pack meat packs for easy transport and storage. When the big rush of Christmas Day is over and you’re looking ahead at New Year’s Eve followed by a summer of entertaining, the barbecue is bound to be a big player whether it’s at home or the beach! However, when the heat is on, it is really important to use fresh, high quality meat. So, just head to the Aussie Butcher where customers are guaranteed the best meat products available. And because we are supplied by reputable New Zealand meat producers this means you’re supporting local farmers as well as the New Zealand economy – now’s that’s a Christmas present our farmers will appreciate! Finally, it’s a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all! Thank you to all our loyal customers and a warm welcome to those who have yet to discover the great meat available in store and the great team here at The Aussie Butcher – Ti Rakau Drive.

Top quality meat at everyday low prices!

NZ grass-fed wagyu beef our specialty Droewors, biltong, boerewors & a variety of game meats Ask about our speciality meats and special cuts

ORDER NOW – PH 274-0995. 312A TI RAKAU DR, BOTANY andrew@theaussiebutcher.co.nz | theaussiebutcher.co.nz

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What’s more, entertaining little children is in Helen’s blood – she was a teacher at Farm Cove Kindergarten before buying the cafe.

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Now we are down to just a few weeks until the big day and, of course, the start of holidays so, there’s no time to waste.

Customers will also find we have fresh and frozen turkeys, boneless stuffed turkey roasts, fresh ducks and rolled chickens, boneless rolled pork and lamb, rolled scotch fillets and eye fillets, butterflied lamb legs and shoulders.

Thyme Cafe at Palmers Garden Centre in Pakuranga Road has recently been refurbished under new owner, Helen Shaw.

“I want to make it a family cafe to appeal to all ages not only through what we offer, but also by arranging special events in the area outside the cafe,” Helen says.

Last month I talked about preparing for Christmas and ensuring orders were in early for Christmas hams and other meats for the festive table.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Eat yourself more

bliss... For this reason, Crown Range Cellar (makers of some of the world’s finest wines) is drawing on the remarkable qualities of these two superfoods for its new range of drinks and honeys. The range features: Blackcurrant Powder (RRP $49.90); Blackcurrant & Manuka, and Manuka & Lemon drinks ($15 each); Manuka Honey UMF10+ ($89.90); Manuka & Lemon Honey, and Manuka & Ginger Root Honey ($45.49 each). All of these products are available at Farro Fresh markets and via crownrangecellar.com.

CHRISTMAS EVE BORSCHT As the first star appears on Christmas Eve, fasting finishes and feasting begins in Polish households. Then it’s time to get ‘Wigi’ with it! Thanks to the good folk at Howick’s Polish Heritage Trust Museum, we have this traditional recipe for Wigilia, the Christmas evening meal.

Some honey is as good as gold. Then again, considering the health-giving properties which magnificent Manuka honey provides, sometimes gold pales in comparison. And, yet, New Zealand has another superstar to offer. Thought to have the highest level of anthocyanins and antioxidants, while being rich in Vitamin C, supportive of cardiovascular and brain function, immunity, circulation, vision, and muscle performance and recovery (the list goes on!) the humble New Zealand blackcurrant is worth much more than its weight too.

POliSh rEciPE

ingrEDiEntS: To be in to

BLACKCURRANT AND MANUKA & LEMON HONEY BLISS BALLS Christmas bliss can continue yearround thanks to this recipe from Crown Range Cellar.

ingrEDiEntS:

WIN

one of two Manuka honey prize packs (valued at more than $260 each) see page 27.

MEthOD: • 1/2-1 tsp Crown Range Cellar Blackcurrant Powder • finely grated zest and juice of 1 small lemon • 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachio nuts for rolling, or toasted coconut

MEthOD:

• 1/2 c raw (natural) almonds • 1/2 c Medjool dates, pitted • 1/4 c shredded coconut or coconut chips • 3 tbsp New Zealand walnuts, toasted • 3 tbsp pumpkin seeds, toasted • 1 tbsp sunflower seeds, toasted • 2 tbsp Crown Range Cellar Manuka & Lemon Honey

• 1 kg unpeeled beetroot • 400 grams sour/tart apples • 4 onions • 1/4 celery root • 4-5 dried mushrooms • 3-4 cloves of garlic • A bay leaf • A few grains allspice • A few grains of juniper

Place all the ingredients except the pistachio nuts in a food processor and process until combined, but the mixture still retains some texture. Roll mixture into even-sized balls, then roll in the pistachio nuts. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Makes 15. Serve and enjoy!

DID YOU KNOW? Well, we’ve all heard of merry Christmas, even cheery Christmas and some folk may know about beery Christmas but there’s a good chance only a few EastLifers know Stella Artois is often touted as the first Christmas beer.

Wash beetroot well, place in boiling water, cook until tender. Wash mushrooms, soak a few hours, then salt and cook in the same water. After approximately half an hour, add chopped celery root and onion. Strain mushrooms and chop finely. Peel cooled beetroot, grate, salt, cover with boiling water and bring to boil. Wash, peel and grate apples. Add to beetroot and seasoning while broth is still cooking. When stock begins to boil, remove from the heat. Pour in mushroom and vegetable stock. Chop garlic and mix with salt, then add to soup. Leave for about 30 minutes to an hour. Before serving, strain borscht through a thick sieve. Serve very hot with mushroom-filled pierogi.

Stella Artois was originally brewed as a festive gift for the citizens of Leuven in Belgium. The batch proved so popular that it was kept in the brewery schedule and named ‘Stella’ after the Christmas star – stella being Latin for star. The makers ay Stella Artois remains a fitting festive beverage, the subtle Saaz hops used in the brew creating a crisp, flavour profile that complements the rich flavours of Christmas day fare from roast chicken or duck, through to glazed ham or roast vegetable salad. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

Food Glorious Food! An international food wonderland all in one place

Cuff Cafe Bistro – Patisserie

534 4495

Bamboo Garden Cafe European & Singaporean

The New Kiwi Chicken Korean style

537 8282

Fong Mei Court Chinese menu range

Little Toyko Japanese Cuisine

537 2829

Hiroba Sushi Now open 7 days a week!

Suzie’s Dumplings Fresh, handmade, tasty

534 0888

Sura Korean BBQ Restaurant

534 5338

535 0260

532 9982

535 3351

La Padella

Rindu Malaysian Kitchen

Scoops Ice Cream Parlour

Kitchenette Cafe European/Kiwi fusion

532 9686

551 0961

The New

Highland Park Liquor Shop

537 2099

Highland Park Bakery Coffee/Food Takeaway

532 9911

and Bubble Tea

534 5305

Union Jacks The British Shop Now open 7 days a week!

537 8679

South African Shop Open 7 days

International Beer/Wines/Spirits

537 1643

535 4929

FUNCTIONS – PARTIES – GROUP SPECIALISTS

HH HH

Park Highland ntre g Ce Shoppin HH HH H

505 Pakuranga Road, Highland Park

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ED IN OU ST

– your next treat is waiting for you now!

TR U

DINE IN OR TAKE OUT

Italian/Pizza Restaurant/Takeaway

IT M UN www.eastlife.co.nz

Xacuti and Uxbridge

The cafe at Uxbridge Arts and Culture is up and running under the direction of a well-known Howick chef and restaurateur whose reputation for excellence is right up there – HELEN PERRY went along to see who’s in the kitchen and what’s coming up on the menu.

– the perfect fit!

I’m so excited – one of my favourite Howick restaurants has just undertaken a move which I think fellow foodies will love. What? Who? Where? I hear you ask! Well, if you haven’t already clicked (the headline is a dead giveaway) it’s Xacuti – that wonderfully innovative, Portuguese/Goan restaurant which has been applauded for its deliciously sophisticated cuisine and for the considerable talents of its owner and head chef, Rasika Dabhade. Xacuti has spent the past 12 months tucked away next to the Picton Centre, but when given the opportunity to operate the new, bright and airy, contemporary cafe at Uxbridge Arts and Culture, Rasika says she just couldn’t resist.

“One of my favourites from the new menu is the deconstructed tuna cerviche with macerated melon, chilli lime dressing, elderflower, cucumber, olive soil and micro coriander will be among them but that’s just one!” she says.

“I just loved the sense of light, the high ceiling and the full height, wraparound, north-facing windows that let the sun flood in while also allowing patrons to sit and watch the world go by. The neutral decor and light oakcoloured flooring plus a few touches of our signature shade of orange ensure a clean, fresh ambience. There’s a peep of the sea, too.”

“I’m really looking forward to presenting Uxbridge diners with some mouth-watering summer options using seasonal fruits and vegetables and, of course we’ll be doing healthy shakes too for those just out of some of the Uxbridge classes!”

Superb as the venue is, at the end of the day, it will be deeds that make the real impact here. And, such is Rasika’s skill in the kitchen that diners are sure to love her new and extensive menu – breakfast from 8am (light and healthy, big and hearty, too) – lunch with a mix of menu items, cabinet food and new, exciting tapas dishes

Chef Rasika Dabhade – loving the new venue. ranging from $6 to $9 each as well as a $15 express lunch (Monday to Friday) which includes a main and beverage (tea, coffee or soft drink). Initially, the restaurant – now named

Photo Wayne Martin

Xacuti Cafe & Bistro – will be open 8am to 5pm, Monday-Saturday, but at the end of January it will open for dinner Thursday to Saturday and the menu will include a selection of Rasika’s signature dishes.

Personally, I can’t wait, either. Rasika has a gift for tantalising dishes (applauded by some of Auckland’s finest food reviewers), which are beautifully presented and incorporate many intriguing elements generally encountered only at top end venues – lucky, lucky Howick!

CAFE & BISTRO 35 Uxbridge Rd, Mellons Bay Phone 534 3051 Mob 027 555 7786 Email rasika.jesil@gmail.com

www.xacuti.co.nz

NOW OPEN @ UXBRIDGE ART CENTRE Fresh, Creative, Exciting Summer Menu

SPECIAL MENU FOR CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS Open Monday-Saturday 8am-5pm 14611

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

vintage roundup

rich and satisfying Wine columnist and connoisseur, DENNIS KNILL, gives his view on new releases and awardwinning vintages.

At Sacred Hill the focus is on family. Either the dynamic David or Mark Mason is always at the cellar door with one of their employees to greet visitors.

the best grapes to create his exceptional blends. Here are two you should try.

Go batty over blood (orange) this summer when you taste the latest liqueur to hit the market. La Maison Cointreau, leading house in fine liqueurs introduces the authentic and elegant Cointreau Blood Orange, a new expression extension of Cointreau. Adding a vibrant, new twist to summer refreshments don’t be fooled by the name – this delicious liqueur in which blood oranges from the island of Corsica provide an intensely aromatic character, is crystal clear!

When David and Mark started making wine more than 30 years ago it was because they enjoyed a challenge and they had the determination and passion to actually give winemaking a go. Today Sacred Hill is one of the most accomplished and successful award-winning wineries in the Hawkes Bay region. Following the success of the 2013 vintage Sacred Hill recently released its special selection of red wines from the Gimblett Gravels Vineyard.

Cointreau Blood Orange – the summer cocktail maker!

And it is the perfect foundation for refreshing cocktails on a summer afternoon.

Cointreau Blood Orange Bold Fizz, While perfectly delicious on the rocks, this gorgeous cocktail could well become essential when entertaining friends. • 1/2 Cointreau Blood Orange • 1/2 soda water • Juice of 1/4 fresh lime and ice Or, you might enjoy it through the evening as a ‘Cointreau Red Light’ (served in a big wine glass) – try: • 1/2 Cointreau Blood Orange • 1/2 cranberry juice and ice – yum! • Cointreau Blood Orange ($65 each) now available at leading bars, restaurants and liquor stores nationwide.

2014 Sacred Hill Brokenstone merlot/ malbec/syrah/ cabernet/franc RRP $50

The Jive Turkey

Rich and satisfying in colour and flavour this is an example of how best to prompt an air of complex aromas. Will cellar well.

With its summery flavour, the Jive Turkey makes for an ideal tipple during festivities on the beach.

Winemaker Tony Bish told me that this year’s vintage has an intense purity of flavour that epitomises grapes grown in Gimblett Gravels.

2014 Sacred Hill Helmsman cabernet/ merlot/franc RRP $85

Mix, in a tall glass with ice:

On sampling these wines I quickly came to the conclusion that they are one of the most remarkable collections of red wines available in New Zealand. Tony Bish is the master blender having taken

An outstanding tripartite with bold flavours that is immediately appealing. Full in richness with a depth of intensity and supple tannins make this a clear headed wine. Ready to drink now.

Characterised by richness and depth of flavour, the three wines which make up the selection, each come with intense ripe fruit and a freshness that is the hallmark of great wines.

• 30ml Wild Turkey bourbon whiskey • 15ml Southern Comfort • a dash of lemon juice • top with cranberry juice

The hero of this drink, the humble cranberry, is as synonymous with Christmas as turkey – wild or otherwise. And, because cranberries are a favourite food of cranes, turkey and ‘crane’-berries really are birds of a feather. However, be sure to drink responsibly, lest these birds take you higher than expected!

open for lunch 7 days from 12pm For listings phone 271 2456 or listings@lonestarbotany.co.nz

Botany Town Centre, First floor, opposite Hoyts www.lonestar.co.nz 14137-v2

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www.eastlife.co.nz

CAFE - BISTRO - PATISSERIE Calling all dining buffs – check out Cuff Cafe, Bistro and Patisserie, tailored to foodies seeking local charm, Euro style, gourmet cuisine

t h ig n y b t n a ur ta s e r t Cafe by day... elegan Here’s what our customers say:

Open Christmas Day

– Bookings essential – Phone 534 4495

❝

Amazing food... Staffing, service fantastic... Like dining with the stars... Quantity and presentation superb...

Breakfast served 7am-11am Christmas Degustation Lunch 10.30am-2.30pm

❞

Sounds too good to be true? Try and see for yourself!

fference and Experience dinner with a di ean cuisine enjoy our unbeatable Europ GROUPS OR PARTIES CATERED FOR – ASK ABOUT OUR DESIGNER MENU Open New Year’s Eve from 5pm till the last person leaves – make your own party! Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner during throughout the holiday season

Christmas Lunch Degustation Menu

, n mousse, parsnip chips Manuka smoked salmo b bar rhu grilled parsley, and tch filet, sorrel crème, Aged and cured beef sco rd, and musta reddish d b rack, cabbage, smoke Black garlic glazed lam almond, and peas olate mousse, Angel cake, white choc macerated strawberries

to 2.30pm Available from 10.30am r head pe 5 $4 Degustation on request by le ilab ava n tio Vegetarian op prior arrangement

ED IN OU ST H

TR U

Closed December 26 and January 1-3

HH HH

T NI

MU www.eastlife.co.nz 14564

Highland Park Shopping Centre, 505 Pakuranga Rd

LICENSED • BOOKINGS PHONE 534 4495

Park Highland ntre g Ce Shoppin HH HH H

eastlife | december 2016 |

Hot Spots THE LOUNGE Hidden away in the Howick Valley, The Lounge is a fully licensed boutique function centre with a difference. Our eclectic dēcor and nostalgic feel are inviting, making The Lounge a comfortable relaxing venue for your next function, Christmas party or intimate gathering. Need a break from cooking? The Lounge has you covered! We hold regular My Night Off Wednesday dinners (bookings essential). Tell us about your next function, The Lounge could be your ideal solution. 186 Wellington Street, Howick Phone 535 1397 www.howicklounge.co.nz

chocolate boutique

Shop 1, 323 Parnell Road, Parnell. Phone 09 377 8550 www.chocolateboutique.co.nz

CHOCOLATE

BOUTIQUE

CAFÉ

Good things come in small boxes and that’s certainly true at the Chocolate Boutique in Parnell which has Christmas wrapped up with its mouth-watering, handmade chocolates made from the finest Belgian chocolate. Choose from more than 100 individual gourmet chocolates, truffles, liqueur, non liqueur, nutty rochers, and pralines as well as other sweet treats and have them packed into beautifully presented boxes of varying sizes – some not so small! Ideal for festive giving, or for under the Christmas tree. Open 11am to 10pm, 7 days.

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Christmas at highwiC Looking for something new this Christmas? Refresh your decorations at the Highwic Christmas shop. Heirloom or ‘Scandy’, we have it covered. We also offer a range of amazing retro toys and games that provide a nostalgia hit for older kids at heart, and a fascinating allure for younger kids, as well as a host of other heritage-themed gifts suitable for all ages. People are amazed at the eclectic range we have, including items you won’t easily find anywhere else. Highwic is beautifully decorated for the festive season and well worth a look through. Open 7 days till Christmas Eve, 10am-5pm. Mortimer Pass, Newmarket, Phone 09 524 5729 highwic@heritage.org.nz www.highwic.co.nz

FISHER HOUSE Fisher House is East Auckland’s premiere dining destination. Situated in large park-like grounds, Fisher House was once home to the founder of Fisher & Paykel – Sir Wolf Fisher. It also was the site of the once famous Ra Ora Stud – home of many great race winners. Now it has been purposely refined to cater for drinking, dining, conferences and weddings. Fisher House is open on Christmas Day from 11am-4pm for a sumptuous buffet – bookings are essential! 117 Kerwyn Ave, Highbrook Phone 09 271 1066 Email info@fisherhouse.co.nz www.fisherhouse.co.nz 14646

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www.eastlife.co.nz

Hot Spots red shed palazzo Recommending this cafe is easy for two good reasons: the food and service are that good and directions couldn’t be more straight forward: head along Karaka Rd and look out for the big... red shed! Along with their team, Paul (a chef with 30 years’ experience) and Kristina Smith serve quality food amidst beautiful, family and animal friendly, garden surrounds. Creative breakfasts, morning and afternoon teas, gourmetstyle lunches and moreish cakes and desserts are all on offer at this fully licensed slice of rural paradise, open 8.30am-4pm. Closed from December 24, 2016. Reopen January 6, 2017. 64 Jesmond Rd (just off Karaka Rd), Drury Phone 09 294 6687 www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Red Shed

Palazzo

FARM COVE CHRISTMAS MARKET Join us on Sunday 11 December from 10am-2pm for the Farm Cove Christmas Market! Hosted by The Burbs Cafe and XO Home, this year’s market is going to be even bigger and better than last year. A selection of different stalls including organic produce, fresh honey, illustrations, olive oil, candles, flowers, sausage sizzle, jewellery, face painting and The Moustache Milk & Cookie Bus! We’ve heard a rumor that Santa will be joining us too. The market will go ahead rain or shine, be sure to bring cash and please park on the road. We look forward to seeing you! 190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove Search Farm Cove Christmas Market on facebook for more information

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turanga creek

LONE STAR BOTANY Texan to a T, Botany Town Centre’s new Lone Star Restaurant has corralled foodies who love the rustic ambience and prime location with sundrenched deck, upstairs next to Hoyts. And to top it off the famous Lone Star menu, with many original favourites, offers classic size meals for hearty appetites and lighter, medium size meals for those who like to enjoy a couple of courses – and a kids’ meals too! Open daily, 12 noon-late for lunch and dinner. Perfect for families but when the kids are in bed, the mood invites a more mature clientele. Ride on in for pre-Christmas socialising – you’ll feel right at home! Botany Town Centre, 1st Floor, opp Hoyts Phone 09 271 2456, www.lonestar.co.nz

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

14615

A fantastic place to relax and enjoy fantastic wine and food. The farm’s stables have been turned into a restaurant, function room and cellar door – the rural environment persuading head chef Barry Armstrong, to leave the city and bring his skills to the country. Producing great food ranging from nibbles and platters to a seven-course degustation menu there is food for everyone and every occasion. Great for families, couples and groups to spend a few hours Open Wednesday to Sunday with late nights Thursday to Saturday. Closed from Christmas Day and reopening Wednesday January 4. 133 Whitford Park Road, Whitford Phone 09 530 8936 www.turangacreek.co.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz 13890-v4

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Taste

‘Drinking in the sun’ is one thing, ‘drinking, in the sun’ is quite another! To help those who indulge in the latter, this month we focus on a bevy of beverages liable to quench the thirst which the former will likely encourage.

Mama mia what a brew!

Coke – red, all about it...

Thunderbolts and lighting might be very, very frightening (Gallileo Figaro – magnifico-oh-oh-oh-oh), but now that the warmer weather’s here, we shouldn’t need to worry about them for a while. Instead, thanks to Mac’s Bohemian Raspberry (as opposed to a Bohemian Rhapsody), we can sit back and savour summer. At 2.5 percent ABV, this raspberry-flavoured wheat beer is designed to deliver note-able flavours without knocking us sideways. Available in six-packs (RRP $14.99), Bohemian Raspberry is available for a limited time.

While God may love a trier, Coca-Cola is hoping everyone will love a ginger this summer! That’s right, no longer will the ‘strawberry blondes’ have to hide away from the sun because, thanks to new, limited edition CocaCola Ginger, it’s their time to shine during this summer’s get-together. Billed as offering that ‘great Coke taste with a refreshing new twist’ this beverage is available (four packs of 355ml cans, RRP $5.99 or 1.5 litre bottles, $5.50 from retailers nationwide until February or while stocks last. It could well prove that ginger is a winner!

Chilli-ing out Despite what the doctor might say putting the lime in the coconut might not necessarily make for a great taste combination. On the other hand, introducing ‘L&C’ into L&P sounds like a great idea! Intended to spice up summer, L&P’s limited release Chilli & Lime is on shelves until March in 1.5 litre AND 600ml bottles, and four packs of 330ml cans.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Rice, nice baby? No matter how many times we sing it this summer, there will be no green bottles (on the wall or otherwise) for those who partake of Steinlager’s newest brew! However, Steinlager Tokyo Dry is more than just a beer of a different colour. By mixing New Zealand ingredients with the Japanese style of brewing, Steinlager aims to

deliver the best of both worlds with a pale golden lager featuring a clean, crisp, light and dry taste. Tokyo Dry is available from liquor stores (RRP $26.99, for 12 packs bottles) and on tap and in 500ml cans (RRP $3.99) at selected bars.

On the vod... Kiwis ‘Russian’ into liquor outlets in anticipation of summer celebrations could well walk out with more than they bargained for! However, while some vodkas may contain all sorts of preservatives, Smirnoff Pure is as pure as the driven snow. Well, not quite, but she’s definitely a natural beauty. Available in Classic Lime & Soda, Cranberry Apple & Soda, Ginger Lime & Soda, and Passionfruit & Soda varieties, Pure (APV 4.5%, RRP $12.99 per four pack) features natural flavours and colours, and no preservatives.

How sweet is summer? Settle, Grettle, Hansells has summer covered! Hansells All Natural Fruit

Syrups are cool, old school drinks which come in four fantastic flavours and can be enjoyed with water or a dash (or several) of gin, vodka or Pimms. With no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, and no preservatives, these fruit-filled cordials are available (RRP $6.99 per 750ml bottle) from supermarkets nationwide.

Rebel, rebel serves up the best! If there’s no milk in the fridge, there’s no need to have a cow... man! While cows aren’t always in the moo-d to produce, the milkman can always deliver thanks to products from Rebel Kitchen. Perfect for lunchboxes, or even just for sipping by the pool this summer, Rebel’s range of organic coconut milk features chocolate, orange chocolate, banana, coffee, chai, matcha green tea and vanilla bean flavours, which are suited to children or adults. Gluten, nut and soy-free with no refined sugar, Rebel coconut milks are available for RRP $3.99 (250ml) or $5.99 (330ml).

eastlife | december 2016 |

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

PALDO KOREAN BUFFET

STAMPEDE BAR & GRILL

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

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!

Stampede Bar & Grill is the premier nightspot and function venue. Stampede is an authentic Western style bar and restaurant and boasts an exciting western saloon style environment.

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.

Folks are coming from miles to eat from the mouth watering menu on western saddle seats. • Kids eat FREE (Mon-Wed). Conditions apply • $10 lunches every day until 3pm • Tuesday – All You Can Eat Ribs $24.95

• 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 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

238 Great South Road, Papakura. Phone 09 297 8991 Open 7 days, 9am-late www.stampedenz.com

LICENSED

• 20% Off YOUR BILL ON pRESENTATION Of ThIS ADvERT Up TO $50 vALUE 7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, howick. ph 537 5554. Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-11.00pm

LICENSED • BYO

INDIaN aCCENt rEStauraNt & Bar

THYME CAFE

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

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 no time like now to visit lovely Thyme Cafe located inside Palmers Garden Centre, Pakuranga. New owner Helen Shaw has refreshed the decor and is intent on providing a relaxed environment where patrons can enjoy the idyllic setting, surrounded by plants and flowers. A children’s play area will keep youngsters happy while parents enjoy a leisurely coffee and a bite to eat – check out the delicious range of homemade cakes, slices and tempting cabinet food – everyone welcome!

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 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

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• CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR DAILY DEALS

• SET ChRISTMAS MENu AvAILABLE NOw • LARGE fuNCTION SPACE AvAILABLE fOR GROuPS Of uP TO 100 • kIwI CRAfT BREwS ON TAP

189 Pigeon Mountain Road, Pakuranga (inside Palmers Garden Centre). Ph 534 0654. Open 7 days 8.30am-4.30pm

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

LICENSED

$ www.eastlife.co.nz

MY Favourit e Thing Everyone has something they value and love for its special meaning. Over the past year EastLife has featured the favourite, and very diverse, items of many well known local residents. We round off 2016 by featuring acclaimed dancer director, Brigid Carter Chan whose grandmother’s rings were all about love.

Brigid Carter-Chan – guided by grandparents devotion and hard work.

Photo Wayne Martin

Dance has never been far from Brigid Carter-Chan’s life. As a child she embraced Highland and tap dancing, ballet and jazz, enjoying 14 years of competitive dance before progressing to the Northern Ballet Company as a professional dancer. During that time she started her own dance studio in Howick which she has operated for 26 years. Today the Carter Chan Dance Performance Centre (now in Botany) is the longest established studio in the area. However, Brigid says if it hadn’t been for the support and care of her grandparents she might not have been where she is today. “My grandparents, Nick and Val Carter raised me and my three siblings in Howick from a young age and that was no easy task at their time of life. We were two girls and two boys and all of us were encouraged and supported in our various interests – dancing for my sister and I, sports for my brothers. In effect, they were our parents and we called them mum and grandad.” Proud of her hard-working grandparents and full of respect for the upbringing they gave her and her siblings, Brigid says one of the things her grandmother valued most were her engagement, wedding and eternity rings brought during the hard times of the Depression. “I remember my grandfather explaining how such ‘luxuries’ required a lot of hard work and careful saving. The story made me appreciate more than ever how hard they both worked all their lives and how much they cared for each other and for us. “This instilled in me an extremely hard-working ethic which has stood me in good stead for all I have achieved in life. When ‘mum’ passed away some 12 years ago I inherited the rings which I hold very dear.” www.eastlife.co.nz

And, the rings are, indeed, beautiful. The engagement ring features two large diamonds in a unique setting with smaller diamonds either side; the gold wedding band is encircled with diamonds and the gold eternity ring is a very beautiful band inset with rubies and diamonds. “They have become prized possessions and though I don’t wear them a lot, or any jewellery

for that matter when I am teaching, I do love to show them off when I am going somewhere special,” Brigid says, “They really are lovely and one day they will go to my own daughter.”

first year of architecture at Auckland University and 15-year-old Cameron as well as a daughter, Shania, who is 10. Both boys are New Zealand dance champions and also teach in the studio.

Like her grandparents Brigid is a proud parent who has encouraged her children’s interests.

“Looking back I think my grandparents influence on my life is also reflected in the way I have raised my own family. Hopefully, they too will value the efforts of hard work and hold precious some of the special things from their childhood.”

“And, amazingly, they all dance,” she laughs. “I have two boys, Brandon who is 18 and just completed his

eastlife | december 2016 |

Magical bedrooms for children If there’s one thing youngsters love it is a bedroom which is all about them. And, if there’s one thing most mums love it is creating those special bedrooms to thrill their children.

dining suites – recycled elm and American oak – as well as occasional tables, dressers and stylish lounge suites, especially Italian lounge suites from Natuzzi – buy from in-store stock or order your favourite colour in leather or fabric.

That’s why a visit to Windmill Kids at Urbano Interiors is a must. Fabulous furniture, wonderful stick on/peel off wallpapers and many delightful extras offer plenty of reasons to re-invent a room. The Windmills Kids range is located upstairs at Urbano’ Polaris Place showroom in East Tamaki where parents will find a charming range of novelty beds for girls and boys – fire engines, racing cars and princess beds – to make bedtime magical.

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ST O O FF CK

With complementary desks, dressers and fun accessories – from contemporary styles to pretty and funky, too –there is plenty to beautifully furnish a child’s dream bedroom. In particular, clever bunk

bed combinations incorporate, storage, desks and contemporary features to maximise space.

many smaller items that make great gifts and will add a special touch to existing bedroom decor if a complete makeover isn’t in the plan just yet.

Or, for that individual touch, wallpapers can be printed with your own photographs – have fun creating personalised family decor or use the wall to show off your child’s photography skills!

With kiddies catered for, managing director, Sara Guo says Urbano also offers a multitude of furnishings styles and accessories for refreshing the home ahead of summer guests.

With Christmas to the fore, there are

Check out the eclectic selection of

Urbano Interiors is packed with top quality furniture plus innovative decor ideas that will give new and old homes the wow factor but, also visit Urbano’s upbeat Newmarket store where a superb curtain making service is available – in-home consultations a breeze. So, forget the talking; snap into action – and give your home the Urbano look. Urbano Interiors, 6 Polaris Place, East Tamaki. Ph 272 9165. Open MondaySaturday 10am-4pm. Sunday closed. www.urbanointeriors.co.nz Shop online at www.windmillkidsfurniture.co.nz

HOTsummerSALE

SLEEPYboy $1285 $1028

SLEEPYboy n Sto $2275 $1820

DRAWERrobe $1655 $1324

BUNKboy with Shelves $4250 $3400

CHESTYboy 1 Bay 6 High $1420 $1136

LIMITED TIME • SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

DESIGNED AND MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

56 | eastlife | december 2016

MELUKA.CO.NZ 0800 MELUKA • INFO@MELUKA.CO.NZ

11798-v11

Furniture. Simply.

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

www.eastlife.co.nz

OUT OF EUROPE

Turn for the better

Amble Hanging Chair

Loop Bench

StEAMy DrEAMS: While some furniture designers might not be able to see the wood for the trees, that doesn’t appear to be the case with England’s Tom Raffield. After years of experimentation, Tom went against the grain, dreaming up a new steam bending method, which makes this marvellous handcrafted

wooden furniture possible. From his base in Cornwall, this award-winning designer produces innovative furniture and lighting created to celebrate the natural, intrinsic beauty of wood. While some products are suited for indoor use, others – in particular,

the Amble Hanging Seat, Chaise Lounge and Loop Bench – practically demand a place in today’s fashionable outdoor rooms during summer. Although this handcrafted furniture is not currently available in New Zealand, shipping enquiries can be made via tomraffield.com.

Chaise Lounge

CONNECTING WITH OUR COUNTRY’S COLOURS New Zealand’s beautiful countryside is at the forefront of Dulux’s latest campaign which brings the colours of our diverse landscape into the home.

“Our new look draws on the emotional connection to our colours, the landscapes and urban areas that inspire us,” says Dulux colour and design specialist Davina Harper.

“The natural beauty of colour can enrich lives and for that we can take inspiration from the many hues that radiate across this beautiful land of ours.”

Re-launching its iconic Dulux Colours of New Zealand collection, Dulux says the 2016 campaign has a more contemporary look focused on the outdoors.

She says the aim of the re-launch is to encourage New Zealanders to discover bold new trends, designs and styles and bring the beauty of New Zealand into their own homes.

“From the rich reds of Kaitaia to the deep blues of Lake Tekapo and neutral shades such as Narrow Neck or the soft pinks of Alexandra, it’s all right there to energise us.

www.eastlife.co.nz

“Dulux is not just about paint, it’s about the way colour reflects who we are, where we are and how we want to live,” Davina says. “As we head into summer it’s a great time to think about how more colour can be incorporated into our lives.” The Dulux Colours of New Zealand range comprises more than 1,000 contemporary shades. eastlife | december 2016 |

Richmond, Mt Wellington – where a new community is growing A strategic approach to landscaping – combining Auckland’s cultural heritage with functionality and design – has been taken at the new master planned, Richmond residential development in the Auckland suburb of Mt Wellington culminating in an abundance of green. Over 370 trees and 14,000 plants are to be put in the ground at Richmond for the first stage of 99 homes. Importantly, the landscaping design and vegetation selection will follow design principles of community and sustainability. The Richmond development is being constructed in seven stages over the next three to five years resulting in approximately 600-700 homes in a safe and inviting community. Building of stage one has already begun with two ‘pocket parks’, currently being erected. These are centred amongst those homes.

The first park is themed to show the arrival of Maori in Mt Wellington. There will be stone columns and a wall sculptured to resemble waka which brought the early iwi to the area.

In addition, home sections will be planted with fruit trees such as citrus, apple and feijoa with the intention of fruit being shared by the community thereby adhering to the principles of creating a warm ‘community’ feel.

Meanwhile, the second park is themed to show the arrival of colonial settlers and will feature exotic and herb plantings and a rosemary hedge. The pocket parks are designed to have a substantial amount of grassed open space for playing on.

Richmond, stage one, will feature 99 terrace homes being completed throughout 2017. These homes come in two, three, four and five- bedroom configurations across eight plan types. Homes start at $680,000, with premium five bedroom homes

starting at $955,000. Homeowners will enjoy welldesigned, internal and external spaces with private courtyards and landscaping. Stylish kitchens with modern SMEG appliances will add character to living and dining areas. Every home will come with warranties for builders, weather tightness, materials and appliances. For more information please visit our website: richmondauckland.co.nz

UN DE RC ON ST RU CT IO N

Richmond - Central Auckland 3-5 bedroom freehold homes from $760,000* Right now, a selection of brand new, high-quality terraced houses are being built in Richmond. Just 12kms from Auckland’s CBD, minutes from Sylvia Park and with community amenities and transport hubs close by, this area is on a major rise. Richmond will be a living and breathing pet friendly community; from the pocket parks with shared herb gardens and fruit trees, to the green bins and worm farms that will recycle green waste to nourish the neighbourhood gardens. Be a part of this growing community with families of all ages. Enjoy shared parks, beautiful landscaping, recreational areas and welcoming neighbours. It’s your new place to live happy. Construction is underway with first homes completing from March 2017 - these homes are selling fast. For more information please visit richmondauckland.co.nz *Price subject to availability

JULIE PRINCE julie.prince@bayleys.co.nz | M +64 21 894 071

HARRY CHENG harry.cheng@bayleys.co.nz | M +64 21 230 6877

These marketing materials have been prepared prior to the commencement of construction of the development. They illustrate the proposed development but as design and construction progresses changes may be made. We reserve the right to make these changes without notice or obligation. All details should be rechecked carefully with us as construction proceeds and up to date information becomes available, and in particular before entering into a sale and purchase agreement. They are intended as a guide only. *Subject to availability. 14673

58 | eastlife | december 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

MASSIVE XMAS SALE 20-60% OFF STOREWIDE

CHRISTMAS SALE

American Oak Extension Table 180-240cm Was $2250 Now $1695 Industrial Quality Gray Linen Bar Stool Was $339 Dining Chair Now $199 Was $375 Now $199

Reclaimed Elm Round Table 120cm Was $1950 Now $1565

Gifts • Homeware • Furniture Oak Chateau Table 210cmx110cm Was $3450 Now $2650

Reclaimed Elm Farmhouse Table 210cm Was $2250 Now $1650

Shop 402 Pakuranga Plaza Cnr Ti Rakau Dr and Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga. Ph 09 576 5998. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm, Late night Thurs 9am-9pm

URBANO INTERIORS

www.urbanointeriors.co.nz

00708-v10

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

www.homescene.co.nz 14375-v2

QUALITY HAND CRAFTED KITCHENS CUSTOM MADE TO MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS QUALITY ASSURED PRODUCTS COMPLETE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALLATION

www.eastlife.co.nz

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Factory Showroom 54D Sir William Ave, East Tamaki. Phone: (09) 274 6471. E-mail: info@dlcabinetmaking.co.nz www.dlcabinetmaking.co.nz eastlife | december 2016 |

Something old – something new! After several seasons of neutrals being at the core of home decor, colour is finding its way back into homes abroad. This UK Sofa, inspired by the famous Chesterfield sofa, is admired for its style and its stunning colour.

It is said that chesterfields – leather settees with a distinctive deep buttoned, quilted leather upholstery and seat low base – were designed in the United Kingdom in the early 18th century. Now, Portuguese furniture brand,

French Style Furniture

Bessa, has redesigned this icon to create a unique and elegant chesterfield for contemporary living. Interestingly, the UK Sofa appears to be levitating; this refreshing look comes from the exquisite brass tube foot while the use of velvet adds a

touch of opulence by accentuated by the bright colour with moving lights. The originality of the UK Sofa is in the innovative details while remaining familiar to the original design – a fabulous Millennium piece that evokes memories of the past.

DONT MISS OUT ON

BEAUTYREST IGNIGHT BEDS INSTORE NOW!

AVAILABLE IN

SOFT MEDIUM & FIRM

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

BEDPOST BOTANY AT THE HUB

451 Ti Rakau Drive, The Hub, Botany. Ph 273 8088. E: bedpostbotany@clear.net.nz HOURS: Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-5pm.

13196

60 | eastlife | december 2016

WE ACCEPT Q CARD

12 Months Interest Free Available* *On in-store purchases $200 and over. Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. 14538

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East Auckland’s best-kept secret... From $973,000 your luxury lifestyle in Pine Harbour awaits!

NEW SHOWHOME OPEN

DEPOSIT

Luxurious, architecturally-designed homes perfect for an idyllic Pine Harbour lifestyle. Beautifully built by Jalcon Homes - Auckland’s most awarded builder. NORTH QUARTER TERRACES from $973,000 Homes now under construction! Sophisticated terrace style homes with open-plan living and spacious rooms. WEST QUARTER APARTMENTS from $1,300,000 8 boutique apartments - only 2 left! 2 and 3 bedroom apartments designed with form, function and lifestyle in mind. VISIT OUR SHOWHOME: 185 Jack Lachlan Drive, Pine Harbour Wednesday to Sunday 11:00 - 3:00pm Christmas closing from 24 December Reopening Wednesday, 18 January 2017.

Auckland’s Most Awarded Builder - 66 Awards

0800 52 52 66

www.jalcon.co.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

61 14540

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

It’s been an interesting year in real estate. We have seen some dramatic movement in prices and plenty of changes to the dynamics of the market. Sales statistics just released by REINZ for our area – Eastern Beaches – reveal a continuing ongoing change in the market. Firstly, sales volumes for October were a low 144 for the month, but up on last month’s 137; secondly, we hit a new record high median price of $1,120,000 and, thirdly, the spread of the sales values continued to swing more towards the upper end of the price range. Finally, the days to sell increased slightly from the usual early 30’s to 38 days.

Also interesting is the number of properties now showing for sale in the area. This week Realestate.co.nz is showing 450 properties currently for sale – up from 330 last month and 294 from the month prior. The median at $1,120,000 is $13,000 higher than last month’s record and represents an increase of 15% from a year ago, 39% from 2 years ago and 101% from 5 years ago! Yes, we have doubled the median in five years. And just to cement with you what part of the market is really moving consider this – in October 2015 total sales of more than $1million

Sale statistics for Auckland overall showed a similar picture. Auckland hit a new record high median at $868,000, up $119,750 or 16% from a year ago. Sales volumes were low at 2135 for the month, 16% down from the same month last year and down from September’s 2424. Nationally, three other regions, besides Auckland, recorded new record median sale prices in October. Northland reached $399,000, Waikato/Bay of Plenty increased to $460,750 and Southland, $225,000, which equalled its last record high set in January 2008. The national median price was $510,000, up 11% from the same month last year, but down 1% on the record $515,000 set in September this year. Sales volumes for the

nation, at 6727, were also down 9% from September and 14% from the same month last year. All this data points squarely to the impact of the new LVR lending rules which is dropping sales volumes, particularly in the lower price ranges which in turn pushes up the point of the median sale price. It is certainly not an indication of a lift in sale prices but more a shift in the market price region that is selling. Please feel free to contact me anytime on 0274966966 to discuss your property needs.

Builders Ho ter us as

GOLD AWARD

•

2016

e Year f th eo

Registere dM

So what does all this mean? Sales volumes have averaged 157 per month for the last 12 months and

196 per month for the 12-month period prior to that so, 144 at a time of the year when it’s leading up to Christmas is a slow month.

represented 47% of the market compared to 58% for this October but sales over $1.5million represented only 9% of the market in October 2015 whereas in October this year it has reached 24%.

‘

In October 2015 total sales of more than $1million represented 47% of the market compared to 58% for this October but sales over $1.5million represented only 9% of the market in October 2015 whereas in October this year it has reached 24%.”

•

Top end strong

A u c kla n d

h o m e s f o r t h o s e w h o a p p r e c i at e q u a l i t y

w w w. litehouse. nz 14371-v2

62 | eastlife | december 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

Words for birds and bees Don’t suggest we tell you about the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees, and asking old Mr Cole is a waste of time too! However, ask Ian Morton from Creative Woodcraft for a few tips about attracting birds and bees into the garden and you won’t be left to figure it out on your own. • Going native: native plants can help turn your garden into a veritable larder for bees. In turn, they will keep you fed by pollinating fruit trees and vegetables. • Go, go bio: beneficial insects, which prey on pests, can clear the way for bees to feed. Consider introducing lady bugs (for example) which gobble down such nasties as aphids, mites, white flies, and scale insects. • Location, location, location: warm homes, house happy (and productive) bees. As bees pollinate early in the day, houses should be situated where they will receive early

morning (but not all day) sun. Mount houses on a stable surface – such as a wall or fence. • Feed their needs: it’s a common misconception that birds benefit from a little daily bread. This is best avoided. Birds’ dietary requirements can vary depending on their species; sugar water being particularly good for nectar feeding birds such as tui, bellbirds and waxeyes, for example. • Right at home: birds of many a feather will flock to your garden if appropriate shelter is provided. Install bird houses and water baths to attracted more feathered friends. • Safety first: cats can climb trees and birds aren’t exactly besties with these beasties! Ensure bird houses and feeders are beyond the reach of cunning felines. For more hints and tips, as well as plenty of hand-crafted bird and bee houses, see beegap.co.nz and creativewoodcraft.co.nz.

Akarana Timbers nails the job! Leading independent manufacturer of pre-nail frames and trusses, Akarana Timbers is a one-stop building supply shop for the trade. We make it our business to be a cut above the rest, stocking a wide range of timber, fencing, decking and landscaping products. We also source other building materials such as hardwood timbers, concrete, blocks, pavers, scaffolding, safety nets, mesh and reinforcing. Rental site toilets and bins also supplied. We serve greater Auckland, Rodney and Franklin with a fleet of specialist delivery vehicles rangings from long reach crane trucks to flat deck and tipper trucks. Our reach extends from Warkworth in the north to Te Kauwhata in the south with account managers constantly on the road. • FTMA member • Mitek fabrication plant • Buildlink Group member

• Full estimation and in-house quoting service • Knowledgeable, friendly trade desk • Mandarin-speaking account managers and support staff

28 Trugood Dr, East Tamaki Phone 0508 AKARANA sales@akaranatimbers.co.nz www.akaranatimbers.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

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eastlife | december 2016 |

THE

AgEnTS

MANAGING TENANCIES OVER CHRISTMAS This month JANE WILSHER of Elite Property Management reminds landlords about managing properties over the holiday period.

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.

With Christmas upon and many people set to take holidays – including landlords and their tenants – I am conscious that rental properties still need to be managed.

They assume their automatic payment has gone through and that everything is fine. By informing them straight away, they are usually able to sort it out.

In addition to religious celebrations, we all know this time of year is about gathering with families and friends for feasting and fun. It’s a time when we also exchange gifts and go on holiday but all this comes at a price. It’s very easy to over spend and suddenly one can find there’s not enough money in the bank to pay ongoing bills.

If this isn’t done then not only will the landlord be short of rent for the month but the tenant will think payments are up to date and will get a nasty shock when they discover they are not and they may need to pay double down the track.

Tenants we manage are set up with automatic payment of their rent but that, of course, only works if there’s enough money in the bank to cover the payment when due. As property managers, checking rent payments is part our daily routine. We have a sophisticated software system that allows us to upload all bank payments and allocate them to the appropriate tenant. A new “paid to date” is automatically calculated. This means that we can see at a glance if any of our tenants are in arrears. We also put a lot of effort into selecting the right tenants. We don’t just sign up the first people who come along so, generally, rent arrears are not a problem. That said, around this time of year funds can be pretty tight for many folk so we make sure any non-payments are dealt with swiftly. Mostly, tenants don’t even realise that their rent has not been paid.

If you are signing up a fixed term tenancy at this time of year you may want to vary this term from the standard 12-month period. No one really wants to move at Christmas time so instead of having an end date in December perhaps agree on a date in January. Finally, even though it’s a busy time of year for all, carrying out routine property inspections and dealing with maintenance is still essential to having a well-run tenancy. Putting off these tasks can lead to additional unnecessary expense. If tenants are going away, it also makes sense to keep an eye on the property during that time – if a property looks vacant it can become a target for theft or vandalism. If you are a DIY landlord and don’t have the time to check your rent payments, carry out inspections and organise maintenance for your investment properties, you should consider taking on Elite Property Management to look after things for you.

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

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

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

64 | eastlife | december 2016

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

Deciding on your needs

do’s and don’ts to maximise resources and budget too, even at the expense of sacrificing your favourite fittings or shaving a little off the bedrooms. You can always upgrade taps and vanities but it’s not easy to enlarge a bathroom while a cluttered en suite can be frustrating to use.

In this month’s series from G.J. Gardner Homes on building the dream house, it’s all about maximising your budget and considering compromise. No doubt those embarking on a building project will have a budget in mind for the new home and will want to stick to it as closely as possible. However, some compromises may be needed along the way and, if that’s the case, it’s best to compromise on things you can change later. For example, settle for less expensive fittings such as a particular type of bath or taps rather than cut corners on things you can’t change such as the size of a room, extra garaging or a scullery to the kitchen. It is often helpful to sit down with someone you know and trust who has built a home themselves. Go over what they did or didn’t do and what they might do differently should they build again.

• Be sure to include the living space you want. For example, a walk-in wardrobe or a spare guest bedroom. Decided what is more important when it comes to special features or finishes versus spacious rooms.

• Be sure your builder checks out the section thoroughly to ensure it is suitable for building the kind of house you want and that your plans are achievable within council regulations or development covenants.

first thing most people look at and comment on when they’re buying a home. Real estate agents universally agree that it is the most important area in the house and can often dictate the value of the home.

• Be aware of other sections around you and how homes to be built might affect the value of your home.

• Take care with the living rooms. Whether it’s an all-purpose family room or formal living room, make it a functional size and even consider a higher ceiling. It’s a place where people gather so a sense of spaciousness can make a huge difference to the overall feeling of the house.

• Get the layout right – build for the sun, views, natural advantages, indoor/outdoor flow and privacy where it’s needed. Spend time reviewing the layout and seek good advice from experienced people. • Never skimp on the kitchen. It’s the

• Bathroom and master bathroom (en suite): make these a functional size

• Storage and space: Never underestimate the value of a storage space – large wardrobes, utility cupboards and room for sports gear, hobbies or a workshop. Consider the need for extra parking for boat, campervan or another car. • Energy efficiency: Orientation to the sun and quality insulation as well as heating and cooling appliances can all affect ongoing costs and comfort of your living environment. • Plan for your hobbies from soundproofing to added storage – the time spent planning up front will pay off in the long run.

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Here are some extra pointers to help decide on which things are the most important.

• Don’t commit to buying a section until it’s been closely looked over by a builder. Location is everything but sometimes site issues can outweigh location. Booking a geotechnical report is an important way to start as is accurate measurement of any slope.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2016 |

Boost for

Dan’s Ti2p0s16 December

woeful gardens! There’s nothing like a happy gardener and gardeners can be very happy now they can get their hands on the ultimate fertiliser.

It’s a full-on growing time, so with a few simple garden tasks completed, you can put your feet up and enjoy Christmas in your own piece of paradise! In the Vegetable garden • Leek Planting Tips – Digger prefers the newspaper wrapped seedlings from Awapuni Nurseries: www.awapuni.co.nz/online-shopping. It is best to drop leek seedlings into deep holes around 20cm deep and let the soil gradually fill in the hole by itself. By planting so deeply you are blanching the leeks (creating the white part). Old gardeners tip: cut off half the green foliage straight after planting • Watering is best done daily, or minimum three times a week at the roots of your vegetable plants. Adding straw or other organic mulches around edibles reduces the amount of water required • Herby heaven – imagine a table at Christmas groaning with the weight of smart salads packed with lots of herbs – that’s perfect because basil, coriander, mint and dill are fast-growers and need constant harvesting! • Potatoes – Continue to hill up the ones that are mid-season ripening, but look out for the yellowing tips of the early season spuds – you might get a feed in time for Christmas Dinner! • Get your bug-life in balance – there’s a lot of leafsucking and munching going on, so control whitefly, aphids, scale and mites with the all-organic Aquaticus Bugtrol.

The Ornamental Garden • Water as a feature – the hotter it gets, the more we appreciate water outdoors. Birdbaths, bowls of water lilies or other aquatic plants are an easy way to enjoy water in the garden. A good design effect can be achieved with a ‘dry riverbed’ – usually this is a serpentine path of stones with curving base giving the effect of sides of a riverbank • Red is traditionally the Christmas flower colour (a la Pōhutukawa in flower), but any garden looks great with hot shades of pinks, reds and corals – colours of geraniums, petunias and impatiens – annuals that are easy to grow and flower quickly • Deadheading roses, giving spent lavender flowers a trim and cutting back spring flowering shrubs – all give the summer garden an instant makeover! 14033-v3

66 | eastlife | december 2016

Exclusive to The Warehouse, new Daltons Controlled Release Fertiliser with 7in1 organics aims to take the fuss and hassle out of monthly fertilising by delivering plant nutrients efficiently over a six-month period. Using specialised manufacturing techniques, 7 organic ingredients have been combined into one unique pellet which is mixed in with Osmocote and wetting agent, Zeolite (nature’s own nutrient sponge). With its nutrient-rich blend of sheep, horse and chicken manure plus blood and bone, organic matter, dolomite lime and seaweed extracts, this is a safe and easy to use fertiliser. Whether you are veggie gardener or a flower gardener, Dalton’s Controlled Release Fertiliser is suitable for both areas and is packed with goodness to help make your garden flourish. Apply it to all plant types to stimulate strong, healthy growth, bumper crops and beautiful blooms.

‘

WIN! DALTONS FERTILISER – EastLife has three tubs of Daltons Controlled Release Fertiliser (RRP$18 each) to give away to lucky readers, PLUS winners will also receive a pair of comfortable, versatile Red Back gardening gloves from Omni Products www. omniproducts.co.nz. To be in to win complete the form at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close December 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

Have a mango, man! As the warm weather sets in, there are some sweet little numbers out there bound to make a man-go crazy! According to Mungo Jerry, “In the summertime when the weather is fine you can chase right up and touch the sky”. That’s all well and good but as long as we can reach up high enough to pick ourselves a juicy, juicy mango, that’d do nicely. Succulent and delicious, mangoes bring an aromatic magic to the summer season, as our thoughts and topics turn to the tropics. Requiring frost-free conditions, mangoes can be grown in the subtropical climate of New Zealand; however, this is one little Indian who likes it hot! While a wide variety of these fleshy stone fruits are cultivated worldwide, the most widespread, and typically consumed fruit, is the common or Indian mango (Mangifera indica).

In India the juicy, juicy mango is representative of fertility, love, abundance and good fortune and, along with the leaves and flowers of the mango tree, plays an important part in many religious ceremonies. The fruit of the mango tree is classed as a superfruit as it is loaded with vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants. In addition to its fruit, the mango tree produces fragrant flowers bringing a light, sweet aroma which contributes wonderfully to the atmosphere of summer evening in the garden. In chilly air, mango trees will always develop cold feet! They should be grown in areas where evening temperatures will not drop below 10 degrees Celsius, and only after frosts and spring rains have past. They can be planted out from late spring to early summer. www.eastlife.co.nz

Season’s Greetings from us at Central Central Landscape and Garden Supplies East Tamaki is on the move to a fresh new site near to Mitre 10! From January 2017 you’ll find us open for business at 29 Bishop Dunn Place. Spruce up those outdoor areas with our wide variety of barks and mulches to really make those outdoor areas pop!

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm, Saturday 8am - 4pm, Sunday 9am - 4pm www.eastlife.co.nz | december 2016 | 67 www.centrallandscapes.co.nz • 09 273 9271 • 29 Bishop Dunn Place,eastlife East Tamaki. 14204-v3

2017-2019:

The Perilous Period 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 You do know that we love to ask questions, right? Hello? Sadly, we are not usually keen to answer them. Doing that, can remind us of such experiences as... ‘getting into trouble’, interviews or exams. Even having to tell ‘porkies’, when that was the convenient option. This next Triennium (2017-2019), I have named... ‘The Perilous Period’. For those of us ‘thinking people’ (i.e. ‘EastLife’ readers), these last 4 weeks of 2016, are a critical time for us to determine, how we can ensure the Good Life journey for ourselves, and our loved ones. It is high time to use the internet, and especially social media, to properly acquaint ourselves with our world and, our place in it. Here is one ‘key’ word to consider in your investigation... ‘competent’! Are you? In a world of increasing mediocrity, ‘competence’ will make you stand out! Many ‘personal development’ courses lead with the question... ‘Who am I?’ That can keep you busy enough to run out of ideas, and your money. Since we are all born terrific, I choose to start with ‘Who I

am!’ Much more positive, powerful and ultimately... more rewarding. The maths involved in ‘more people’ and ‘fewer jobs’, is not a good thing. In this so-called ‘Information Age’, too many of us are poorly informed on things that really matter. The future is not something you meander aimlessly into, just because it keeps on arriving every day. Our challenge must be... to plan and accomplish... a deliberate pilgrimage, to Best Life. So, potential achievers, here is my ‘burning’ question that you should ask yourself, each day, without fail, starting tomorrow morning as you wake up... Where to now? Enjoy a great New Year with family. I coach... PATH2© : The Personal Power Course for 3Percenters, online. This journey is only for serious Go-getters, who want to own their tomorrow, today. PATH2© contains world-unique content. Triennium 2017-2019 : The Perilous Period... is here! Are you ready? Contact me... I dare you!. Cheers. Bill. – duitdammit@gmail.co.nz

Busted businesses The days of insolvency practitioners playing fast and loose with the law could be numbered if Government plans prove effective. “Concerning gaps in standards and ethical behaviour” by organisations overseeing liquidation, receivership or administration have prompted the introduction of a new licensing system, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister, Paul Goldsmith, recently announced. “There are insufficient effective sanctions against ‘self-interested’ practitioners who overcharge for their services or carry out unnecessary work in order to obtain larger fees, or against ‘debtorfriendly’ liquidators who fail to

68 | eastlife | december 2016

comply with their statutory duty to protect the interests of creditors,” he says. “The current regime is too loose. For example, a person can be convicted of tax evasion or other serious forms of knowledge-based criminal offending, yet still operate as an insolvency practitioner, a position that relies on trust.” Recommended by the Insolvency Working Group, headed by Mr Goldsmith, the new licensing system is expected to result in a higher level of trust and transparency. More information is available via the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment website, mbie.govt.nz.

Invesment markets a lot like children! Local resident and Authorised Financial Adviser Mark Steele talks about the behaviour of investment markets. It’s not often that investment markets can make you smile, but from a slightly ‘lighter’ perspective, don’t the markets sometimes remind you of children? I love analogies, and I’ve been thinking on this one since becoming an investment adviser 7 years ago – it has been confirmed, in my mind, by recent share market behaviour. Children and share markets both depend on adults to invest time and money into them. The younger the child, or the market, the more volatile and susceptible they are to tantrums, compared to the older more established peers who take a lot more to upset. However, if upset, that older group can take longer to recover. Younger ones tend to grow more quickly, but often in spurts. Both young and old markets are constantly listening to everything we say, and will often overreact to words they like or dislike and both love to follow their peers simply for fear of being left out. I can think of many examples to demonstrate these comparisons, but probably the most relevant at present relates to the recent US elections and reaction to them. When Donald Trump became President Elect of the USA, his success shocked the world, but his first speech didn’t send markets into the turmoil expected. Instead, there

was an upward spike of positivity. The highly analytical reason for this was ‘the tone’ of Mr Trump’s voice – and his calming message of unity – which gave people confidence about future investments. What happened to price-to-earnings ratios, growth forecasts and the management strategy of a company? (We could just as well ask, in relation to children, what happened to the decile rating, teaching standards and co-curricular programme of a school?) None of these important issues matter if the parents and investors want to keep their child (or money) at home on the day. I have written before about basing investment decisions on a strategy that learns from the past and caters for the anything the future may hold rather than using the past as a prediction of the future. (Has anyone had a child who was an angel to the age of two then became a terror child?) When compared to investing, you might say a similar strategy could work as a parent? Invest both time and money and have a long-term plan. Don’t give up on them because of what someone has said, or because they didn’t do what you thought they would do. Keep them accountable, but encourage some risk. Finally, learn from the past and make sure you are ready for the future. I hope markets and children behave over New Year. Merry Christmas!

Mark Steele 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

Matters of trusts and a check on clawback ‘ Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community

The Justice Department has just released a draft Trust Bill. It builds on extensive work done by the Law Commission and is designed to modernise the law of trusts. This is a very important legal area. For a long time, New Zealanders have had a love-affair with trusts – there are up to half a million trusts in existence holding 15% of our housing stock. The Trustee Act 1956 governed some aspects of trusts. However, court decisions are of equal or even greater importance. This is especially the case for relationship property. For trustees and beneficiaries it is difficult to know what the rules around trusts are at any particular time. So, it is time for a change based on many of the recommendations of the Law Commission. The Bill sets out clear trustee duties and it provides rules for the supply of information to beneficiaries. It defines, extends and regulates

trustee powers. It deals with changes to trusts. It provides pathways for their liquidation. It sets out an easier process for removing and appointing trustees and, it deals with important questions of trustee liability and indemnity from the trust assets. Overall, the Bill and resulting Act is intended to provide a practical, modern, understandable and, thus, usable legal framework for trusts. Two comments. First, the Bill does not deal directly with the vexed question of relationship property and the degree to which trusts can (or should) shelter property from relationship claims. Secondly, the degree to which trusts are really needed by the average New Zealander is not challenged. Outside genuine asset protection for those at personal risk of liability, trusts can raise unrealistic intergenerational expectations and sense of entitlement. In many instances, they may be more trouble than they are really worth.

Outside genuine asset protection for those at personal risk of liability, trusts can raise unrealistic inter-generational expectations and sense of entitlement. In many instances, they may be more trouble than they are really worth.”

The consumer lending area is also an important practical area of the law, impacting on New Zealanders daily, as borrowers and lenders. The policy behind the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 (which regulates this area) is truth in lending. Before a borrower is committed to a loan they have to know what the deal is and have a cooling off period so that they get out of the loan if they have second thoughts. The Act has been progressively amended, most recently by the addition of lender responsibility rules and dispute resolution processes. As a consequence there extensive (and very technical) disclosure

requirements are placed on a lender when making the loan and when varying it.

Currently, if a lender gets disclosure wrong (even on a technicality) they can’t enforce the loan until the correct disclosure is made. More than that they cannot recover the costs of borrowing for the period before the correct disclosure was made (see s 99(1A) of the Act). So all the interest paid on the loan potentially has to be paid back even though the borrower has had the benefit of the credit. Potentially this has an unfair impact on lenders and so there is a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment Discussion Paper (November 2016) looking at ways to improve the balance between encouraging lenders to make correct disclosure (through the penalty of non-recovery of borrowing costs) and ensuring that borrowers do not get a windfall from an inadvertent and possibly not particularly material failure to disclose. Watch this development – no doubt a change to the current law will occur with significant impact for lenders and consumer borrowers.

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eastlife | december 2016 |

Look Ma, no hands EastLife motoring correspondent ALISTAIR DAVIDSON is accustomed to driving some highly sophisticated automotives but the new MercedesBenz E200 with it’s Driving Assistance package Plus and many safety features was always likely to impress.

Driving Assistance package Plus has Drive Pilot which will keep the car in its lane, including turning the steering wheel for you. It’ll brake when the car ahead slows, and accelerate to the speed you’ve preset when the road ahead is clear. If the system brings the car to a complete stop, it will get you going again with no driver intervention.

My wife Sharron and I are gliding along the Southern Motorway in the luxury and comfort that’s the new Mercedes-Benz E200. As we approach a sweeping right-hand bend at 100km/h I take my hands off the steering wheel and fold my arms.

“I really do wish you’d told me that this car drives itself,” says Sharron. Why would I do that? Of all my hobbies, winding up my wife is one of my favourites and this was an opportunity that was too good to miss.

“What the hell are you doing,” hollers Sharron, “are you mental?”

The helpful PR bloke at MercedesBenz is quick to point out that the E200 isn’t an autonomous ‘self drive’ car, although it’s pretty darn close.

I tell you what, it’s the weirdest feeling, and it was a huge leap of faith to take my hands off the wheel. Mercedes Benz doesn’t recommend it, and neither do I because at this stage it’s a safety feature rather than convenience.

You can’t punch a destination into the nav system and have the car take you there, with no input from the driver. What you can do is activate adaptive cruise control (between 20km/h and 210km/h), set the following distance to the car ahead, and away you go.

But, lightly holding the wheel and feeling it move as the car negotiates a corner is pretty cool The E200 will also change lanes for you, without any steering input. With cruise control on, all you need do is indicate. The car decides if the lane you want to

I turn to her, taking my eyes off the road. “Don’t worry, it’s all good, everything’s under control.” Everything was under control, except for Sharron of course; she’s freaking right out. The Mercedes takes the bend, and I retake the steering wheel.

70 | eastlife | december 2016

go in is clear, then goes ahead and completes the manoeuvre. It’s also cool feature, but more of a novelty than something I’d use every day. I’ll tell you what’s even more amazing: this advanced technology, which is a first on any Mercedes Benz model, is standard on the entrylevel E200. That’s right, this is the base model and it’s priced at under $100,000. But wait, there’s more... Slide into the comfortable and roomy cabin (the wheelbase is 65mm longer than its predecessor’s) and there’s a real sense of occasion. The architecture, quality of the materials, fit and finish is simply superb.

‘

EastLife’s test E200 came with an optional metallic paint finish, 19” alloy wheels, heated front seats and the Vision Package (sunroof, heads-up display and upmarket audio), taking the price to $109,380.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Left, Emergency Stop Assist brings the vehicle to a standstill within the lane if drivers fail to respond to repeated warnings by the hands-off warning signal that reminds them to put their hands back on the wheel. Right, The last of Mercedes’ models to get an extreme makeover, this tenth generation all-new E200 is a perfect blend of C- and S-Class styling. Photos Alistair Davidson There’s not a single stitch out of place, the gaps are precise, and it’s classy and understated despite the two big 12.3-inch glass display screens (for virtual instruments and nav/infotainment) that look all virtual reality. I wouldn’t describe the controls as being totally intuitive, but they’re not hard to figure out. Once I had it sussed I found everything simple to navigate, from the customisable instrument display to operating the awesome sound system.

There are two thumb print size touch pads on the steering wheel for swiping through various commands a la smart phone, another first for E-Class. These are supplemented by a touch pad and rotary control on the centre console, which is flanked by buttons for quick access to the main functions such as the ‘home’ menu. There are enough gadgets to keep the most avid technophile occupied for hours. E200 comes loaded with safety

features over and above the Driver Assistance package Plus, from nine airbags to crosswind assist and seat side bolsters that move occupants further away from the point of an impending side impact. Being the entry level model, E200 has a two-litre petrol engine coupled to an excellent nine speed transmission. With 135kW and 300Nm on tap it’s no rocketship, but there’s adequate acceleration and it’s a relaxed and capable longdistance cruiser.

The car feels balanced and well controlled, even though the handling is more comfort than performance orientated. Mercedes-Benz E-Class hasn’t just shifted the goalposts, it’s a game changer. Yes, it oozes advanced technology out of every pore, and it can be as complicated or as simple as you want. But all this wizardry hasn’t come at the expense of enjoyment, proving that safe doesn’t always mean boring.

parting shot

labour slams pumpkin patch – Merry Christmas, Mr Bunt While approximately 170 workers from East Tamaki’s Pumpkin Patch head office will be home for Christmas (including director, Mellons Bay resident, Luke Bunt), recent tidings have not given them much cause for comfort or joy. JON RAWLINSON reports. Confirmation by receivers, KordaMentha, that redundancy payments would be denied to workers at Pumpkin Patch’s local head office has earned the ire of the Labour Party. “Workers can’t be the last cab off the rank whenever a company goes down,” Labour MP, Iain LeesGalloway (Workplace Relations), says. “These are people who’ve committed themselves to Pumpkin Patch’s success; they must get what they’re entitled to.” Pumpkin Patch’s corporate structure sees its parent company (which employs head office and warehouse staff), effectively crying poor and unable to meet www.eastlife.co.nz

obligations, despite a subsidiary (employing retail staff) busily selling off stock. Mr Lees-Galloway suggests the company may have intentionally designed its structure to avoid contractual obligations to some of its employees. “The company has separated its head office from its retail operation... [it] has deliberately constructed itself to avoid obligations, which raises serious questions about honesty and fairness during negotiations. Labour [would] make sure the interests of working people come ahead of the few at the top.” Across the ditch the news is better, because Australian employees

of this Kiwi company will receive their entitlements. Under the law there, employees are paid out before other creditors, with no cap on entitlements, and they are protected by a government scheme if the company has no assets. So, should our workers be similarly protected? Paul Goldsmith, Minister for Commerce and Consumer Affairs (currently heading a review of insolvency laws) would not venture a personal opinion as to whether our law should be changed to protect workers from being shortchanged in such a way. “It is not uncommon for businesses to be structured in a similar fashion to Pumpkin Patch. Businesses may do so for efficiency and tax reasons,” he says.

“In Australia, the government provides... financial support to eligible employees who lose their jobs due to their employer entering liquidation. “There is no equivalent taxpayerfunded regime in New Zealand [and] there are no current plans for such a regime.” Where does all this leave the 170 or so employees, some of whom have already been sent home? Unless First Union is successful with legal challenges, they’re essentially up the creek without a paddle or (perhaps more apt) at Christmas dinner without a turkey, or a pumpkin for that matter. Either way, I guess all affected (including Mr Bunt) will have little to celebrate during this season of goodwill. eastlife | december 2016 |

Right ‘Hon’ Key While the USA may prefer to choose a property developer to run their country, here in God’s own, we tend to leave politicking to the professionals. However, while building walls (or watching them fall down) might make headlines, much of John’s work is overlooked. So, once again, we take a peek at the daily grind of our current Prime Minister, Mr John Key.

Shaken, NOT Deterred The sky didn’t fall following the US election, but the ground sure shook here in New Zealand. As EastLife went to print, the PM announced plans for urgent legislation aimed at getting quakeaffected areas back on their feet. Initiatives to date include tax relief for affected businesses, a wage-subsidy support package for businesses in the worst-affected areas, and a $5 million rural support package. “I’ve visited the affected region three times since – there’s an incredible amount of damage but I’m impressed at how stoic, brave and resilient the locals have been,” he said. “The response and recovery efforts continue and the Government remains committed to standing behind affected communities.” Thankfully, Mr Key wasn’t standing behind the people of Kaikoura when the quakes hit, otherwise he might still be there! However, he was on deck to salute Task Force Commander, Steve Lenik, and the RNZN’s disaster relief task force.

Coming up... Trump Early last month, John congratulated the USA’s new President-elect. “The American people have spoken and I congratulate Mr Trump on his victory,” he said. “Our two countries share a strong relationship and I look forward to that continuing. Over the coming months we will be looking to build close ties with the incoming Trump administration.” Whether or not Mr Key then called his accountant for a closer look at his stock portfolio is unclear.

(Asia Pacific Economic Co-operation) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Mr Key announced the launch of negotiations to upgrade the New Zealand-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA). “It has been eight years since our FTA with China came into force and it has exceeded all expectations. It has an enviable record and showcases to the world the importance of trade liberalisation,” he said. “The upgrade will be an opportunity to deepen and broaden our comprehensive strategic partnership. It will ensure that our FTA continues to drive our relationship forward.” He confirmed negotiations will begin during the first half of 2017 and will be geared to improving the existing agreement while also addressing newer areas such as competition policy and e-commerce. China is one of New Zealand’s largest export markets. In the year ending June 2016, the value of goods and services exports totalled $12.2 billion, Mr Key confirms. In Peru, Mr Key met with a number of political leaders. This year’s APEC meeting was focused on initiatives such as more effective trade in services and trade liberalisation – something a certain American property tycoon is firmly against. “The Asia Pacific region accounts for almost three quarters of our total trade and is home to some of our most important international partners,” Mr Key said. “APEC provides a valuable opportunity to promote New Zealand as a good place to do business and invest in.”

Jordon on his mind...

While the world waits on the Donald to decide which way the new winds of trade will blow, Mr Key was busy cutting his cloth to suit.

Barry McGuire sang: “Even the Jordan River has bodies floatin” so it’s not so strange that, at a time when many believe we are indeed once again on the eve of destruction, His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan would seek allies even on these distant shores.

During a visit to Peru for the APEC

As EastLife went to print, John Key

Trade winds change

72 | eastlife | december 2016

‘

It has been eight years since our FTA with China came into force and it has exceeded all expectations. It has an enviable record and showcases to the world the importance of trade liberalisation,”

was preparing to welcome this right royal visitor. “King Abdullah’s visit will be an opportunity to hear Jordan’s important perspectives on Middle East issues, including Syria, the Middle East Peace Process, Iraq and efforts to counter ISIL,” Mr Key said soon before laying out the red carpet. “New Zealand and Jordan have a strong bilateral relationship, one which has grown even closer through our time serving together on the Security Council last year.” In addition to various state occasions, King Abdullah (a former military pilot and Special Forces’ commander), was also expected to visit a Battle Training Facility in Ardmore.

The PM congratulates Commander Steve Lenik (Commanding Officer, HMNZS Te Kaha), for the navy’s earthquake relief efforts. Photo supplied We are unaware whether or not Mr Key attempted to use the occasion to sell said king any obsolete military hand-me-downs from the USA, however.

On the home fund Apparently, opening doors for those locked out of the Auckland property market does require a... Key. Early last month, the PM unveiled a $300 million emergency housing package to provide up to 1400 more emergency housing places in areas of high demand nationwide. “Over recent months, it’s become clear that demand for emergency housing has increased, especially in Auckland, and we’re committed to meeting that need,” he said. “This latest package will make a real difference to the lives of some of New Zealand’s most vulnerable people and families.” www.eastlife.co.nz

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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

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