HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS
www.eastlife.co.nz
February 2014
TO
have AND TO hold
Turkey
LAND OF MYSTERY
Colin Prentice
founding principles OUT & ABOUT | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY | FOOD | ART | HOME | MOTORING | EVENTS | TRAVEL www.eastlife.co.nz
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eastlife | contents
on the cover
Bonza start to year Welcome back to the first edition of EastLife for 2014! With the year already into its second month, New Year greetings seem a bit superfluous but acknowledging the year’s exciting start, certainly doesn’t. And what a start we’ve seen especially in the sports and entertainment arenas.
New Year celebrations, Valentine’s Day and the holiday mood often spark a round of marriage proposals that soon need to be followed up with wedding plans and bookings. This month’s EastLife includes The Bride Guide complete with wedding planner to keep couples on track as well as some sensible advice aimed at keeping stress to a minimum, happiness on a high and ensuring the big day runs smoothly.
The thrill of 17-year-old Auckland teenager Lorde winning two Grammys and performing at the glittering event in Los Angeles was an outstanding achievement; three New Zealand films have been selected to screen at the Berlin International Film Festival; the New Zealand Black Caps took out the one-day international series against world champions, India with our own Pakuranga man Mitchell McClenaghan, contributing to those wins; the three Wells brothers, Jossi, Byron and Beau-James, all made it into the New Zealand Winter Olympic team competing in Sochi and another Auckland lass, Lydia
Ko has shown that within weeks of turning professional she is a golfing force to be reckoned with. That may mark the beginning of 2014 but what fun and games ahead? It’s election year and, undoubtedly, that will mean more than a few shenanigans. Although the local body elections came and went last year, the coming months will see just what our new council has on the agenda other than mayoral affairs. I’m sure there will be plenty to talk about and a lot of it will be rubbish – literally. For anyone who saw the launch of TV’3s new Paul Henry Show, an item that suggested householders could soon pay for disposal of household waste by weight sparked dismay in our office and is sure to cause ongoing debate.
readers plenty to think on. It’s exciting to be back exploring our community’s ‘assets’ and bringing to you all, people and places, food and fashion, beauty, home decor, motoring and wise words from our columnists. Remember, EastLife is available from dropboxes in our local centres and can be viewed digitally on line at www.eastlife.co.nz. So here’s to a challenging and rewarding 2014 – stay with us! Cheers,
Yes, I can see there will be much to talk about in the year ahead and I’m sure EastLife, too, will give
Helen Perry Editor
This month... Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Caroline Boe 09 271 8091, caroline@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Gina McNeill 09 271 8020, gina@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz Photography: Wayne Martin Manager: Karla Wairau 09 271 8083, karla@eastlife.co.nz Managing Director: Reay Neben 09 271 8012, reayn@eastlife.co.nz Publisher: Times Newspapers Ltd 50 Stonedon Drive, East Tamaki, 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 newspaper. All the material in this newspaper 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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6 10 questions in 10 minutes Publishing entrepreneur and Whitford resident Dame Wendy Pye
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out & about
Around the town
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interview
Our governing bodies, Jami-Lee Ross and wife Lucy Schwaner
14-15 profile Couple with sway compete in Paris
16-17 profile Lessons learnt – former college principal reflects on his career
23-33 the bride guide • Tying the knot • You’re invited • Jewellery • Reception venues • Honeymoon choices • Wedding planner
34-44 Lifestyle
• Game goes global
turkey • The best of the Med • Glorious Turkey • Buying a piano • Essentials
45-53 health, beauty and fashion • Making the most of sales • In the pink • Male pampering
54-61 food • Porterhouse Grill opens • Enterprising Prenzel pair • Summer dining guide
62-72 home
• Huntingwood – a heroic effort • Tom O’Neill – I’m a country boy now • Margaret’s a driving force • Regular columnists Bill Potter, Richard Galbraith, Greg Roy and Nick Neben
73-78 drive We look at Ford Ranger, Nissan deals, Kia GT4 Stinger, Ssangyong range and BWM’s X5 SUV www.eastlife.co.nz
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eastlife | interview
10 TEN
Ten questions in ten minutes with
Dame Wendy Pye
Dame Wendy Pye, who lives locally on a Whitford lifestyle block, is known for her publishing company, children’s educational books and international literacy programmes. Here she addresses a few questions about her work. Where does your love of the written word come from? From my mother, she loved books, stories and also taught me how to use my imagination. You have said that if allowed to assist the New Zealand education system, every child would read within a year. How would you implement this type of learning? Work really hard to ensure every child attends school on a regular basis, especially during their early years. (Many children attend school just three or sometimes only two days per week. Friday and Monday are days often missed.) Make sure everyone has access to digital and print in a learning environment. Ensure the proven packages offered are fun and engage every child. We have proven through our product with extensive research that every child will learn to read in the first two years of school. New Zealand’s recent child poverty statistics are worrying – how important would you say literacy is in breaking the cycle of poverty? Very important. Without the essential skills of literacy children just will not progress. The first three years of schooling are important and that is our focus. Without the enjoyment of learning and also the necessary skills, by age 10 we are beginning to lose the child. How sad that with all the success we have had overseas, that we don’t all get together and make this happen. It seems simple to me that the Government and private companies should pool their resources to create success. But there is a reluctance by the Government to undertake any movement on this. Wonder why? What are your thoughts on charter schools and would you like to see your reading programme introduced in NZ charter schools? Not sure on charter schools but, as they say, the jury is out. I work extensively with charter schools
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overseas in various ways. I did try to work with the foundation team in New Zealand but for some reason they didn’t want to know about our experience. I wish them well but the main issue is ensuring children come to school on a regular basis. Children’s literacy is close to your heart but what about adult literacy? You once mentioned our prisons were full of people who couldn’t read. Would you consider implementing a reading programme for prisons or other marginalised groups? We have worked on programmes for adult literacy, in fact, our 10-week programme “This Is It,” was very successful when trialled by Northland and South Auckland WINZ offices but maybe it was too successful as all the people undertaking the programme either went on to advanced courses of learning or finished the course then secured jobs. Often successful programmes are not adopted. In fact, this programme, despite its hugely successful results, was not given any further consideration. We are also working in prisons with a programme for literacy to try to encourage adult men to read to their children when they visit the prisons. Do you think publishers can survive the digital age and the rise of the e-reader? Digital is the future, but it is still in a very early phase. The business models are still being developed. The Internet is seen as a free resource, so when people charge there is a challenge. I believe that it will happen, but we still need to blend this with print. Do you personally prefer to read a hard copy book or use an e-reader? A hard copy book... but I must try with the e-readers. I just love print for myself; as I get older I find it is easier. But again, it’s because I have not taken that step. In my lunch room at work I see all staff using e-readers so I am the last in the team. I have promised myself that on my next
flight I will try using the e-reader. It is a matter of making it happen. What’s a day in the life of Dame Wendy Pye like with your finger in so many ‘pyes’? Up early, thank goodness for my young life on a dairy farm. A typical day is up at 5am or earlier, working to follow up on emails etc. I stop at around 7.30am for a swim. I have a pool house and love to swim every morning for exercise but also for reflection. I also do all my calls to America and other places at this time. Then breakfast with my husband Don at 8am, before dressing and tackling the motorway just after 9am. I often work late too as I may need to follow up people in Asia at around 10pm or later. But I have one hour off when I come home to prepare dinner, eat and hopefully watch the Australian or some other international news. I’m a bit of news junky. I like to spend time at home if I am around, love cooking and have a large cupboard of preserves. I will never
starve nor anyone else who visits. If you could be Prime Minister for a day what would you do? Think hard about a long term strategy and share this. Never be afraid to share the good and bad news. If you could invite any three people to dinner, dead or alive, who would they be and why? Five actually – Nelson Mandela, who I worked with over 30 years ago in South Africa, setting up the important and successful Non Governmental Organisation that today works with thousands of children and teachers. He will never be replaced, but his legacy lives on. Also, Paul Hamlyn, a great world publisher, clever and crafty! Richard Branson (he may be a bit over the top), President Barack Obama (to have a serious discussion on what is wrong with American education and what he could do about this) and Rod Stewart (I think he still can sing; loved his life story). Now that would be a combination! www.eastlife.co.nz
groovin’ in the grapes Music aficionados and wine connoisseurs turned out in droves for some glorious sunshine and lively music at Turanga Creek’s Groove in the Grapes festival in Whitford last month. Photographer JANET KEELING soaked up some of the sunshine. 1. Steph Brasell and Sam Brown 2. Jennifer Spellman and Karla Kimi 3. Mike & Anne Stockton 4. Laura Gemmel and Rochelle Gill 5. Michelle Vogt and Tracey Leef 6. Jenny Anderson and Kristy McCarthy 7. Julian Howearth
8. Jan Deadman 9. Kay Reiber, Cheryl Waite and Peter Paganuzzi 10. Joe, Cameron & Avalon Rhodes 11. Nicky Litchfield and Theresa Johnson 12. David Kelly and David Holloway
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eastlife | out & about
change of scene Howick’s art circles gathered at the Monterey Art Gallery last month to farewell owner and curator, Sandy Starr, who has been at its helm for more than seven years. Moving on to seek more creative pathways, she welcomes new owner, Maureen Crombie, who shares her love of art. EastLife photographer WAYNE MARTIN was there.
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1. Jos van Druten, Paul Evans, Sandy Starr, Susan Evans, Gaye van Druten 2. Helen and Graham Hamblin 3. John Cornaga, Graham Hoffmann 4. Sandy Starr and new owner Maureen Crombie 5. Sandy Starr, Lynne Hodges, Peter Hall 6. Kylie Williams, Jon Williams, John Starr 7. Sandra McGowan, Emma Topping, Paul Prestidge
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HAPPY DAY CELEBRATION OF COLOR
While scores of eastern residents flocked to the city on Auckland Anniversary Day, a huge number headed south to Pukekohe Park Racecourse where a crowd of almost 9,000 Color Runners – all dressed in white running gear – completed the 5km course around the track during which they were showered with pink, blue, yellow and green coloured powder (100% natural, food grade corn starch). This is the first time New Zealand has hosted The Color Run and the event culminated in a family-friendly ‘Finish Festival’ of music, entertainment and stunning mass group throws of even more coloured powder. Almost 3,000kg of colour was used across the day.
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eastlife | events
February 2014 ➤ valentine’s day Movies in Parks: Silver Linings Playbook February 14, 7.30pm-10.30pm, Lloyd Elsmore Park, FREE Who says Valentine’s Day has to be commercial? The best things in life are free, and so is the screening of last year’s Academy Award-winning blockbuster, Silver Linings Playbook. Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro, this a romantic comedy about an eccentric former teacher hung up over his ex-wife and what happens when he meets a dancer. Give Your Partner the Stars February 14, 7pm-11pm, Stardome Observatory Choose an unforgettable Valentine’s Day date this year with a romantic virtual tour of the Stars in the Planetarium dome at Stardome – and give your sweetheart his or her very own star! Tickets include a romantic planetarium show and a gift box containing a bottle of bubbles, two champagne flutes, chocolate hearts and your very own adopt-a-star ($60 value). Arrive early to explore interactive exhibits and gallery while enjoying a complimentary glass of bubbles and nibbles. Tickets $140 per couple; www.stardome.org.nz.
Valentine’s Day Sunset Dinner Cruise February 14, 6pm-9pm, Viaduct Romance is in the sea breeze thanks to the Olympic Spirit, a cruising catamaran docked in the Auckland harbour. Utterly unforgettable, this beautiful sunlit evening is the perfect chance to celebrate love. A threehour cruise with canapés, dinner and dessert, it’s an experience even Cupid will struggle to match! Tickets $150 per person; phone 0800 BUY TIX.
➤ SPORTS BMW NZ Polo Open 2014 February 23, 10am-late, Auckland Polo Club, Clevedon Relax in the beautiful surroundings of Fisher Field, soak up the excitement, enjoy the pace of the game on the field with world class players, and later, revel in the elegant, off field atmosphere well into the evening. Dress to the nines for the Fashion Lawn and win prizes for best dressed. Tickets from $35 to $65; see aucklandpolo.co.nz for more info.
➤ fashion Fashion sets Sparrow free Saturday, March 1, Elim Christian Centre, Botany Rd The ‘My Name is Sparrow’ Fashion Show is a collaboration between worldwide charity TEAR Fund and anti-trafficking organisation, Nvader to raise awareness of human trafficking and highlight the new partnership between the two groups. It features guest speaker Daniel Walker, founder of Nvader and a former police detective. A pre-loved clothing pop-up shop will be set up in the church gymnasium from 11am-6pm and the fashion show will begin at 3pm. All proceeds go to TEAR
Fund’s anti-slavery and exploitation programme supported by Nvader in Thailand. Tickets, $20; ph 538 0360.
➤ MUSIC Music in Parks: Banda Latina February 9, 3pm-6pm, Cockle Bay Reserve, FREE Chill out under the sun with the lively, fluid Latin American sounds of salsa and meringue, the provocative, sensual bachata, the romantic bolero, or the emerging new sounds of cumbia. An unforgettable experience featuring the exotic sounds of congas, timbales, huiro, maracas and bongos. The Classic Hits Winery Tour February 15, 5pm-10pm, Villa Maria Estate Winery, Mangere Be serenaded by a stellar line up of talent amongst the vines of Villa Maria Estate. This year sees musical legends The Exponents take to the stage as well as superstar Stan Walker and electronica trio Breaks Co-Op. Tickets, $75 plus booking fee, available from winerytour.co.nz. Catch a bus for only $10 return from local pub GBS – leaving at 4pm. Ph 534 3199 to book.
Splore February 14-16, 9am, Tapapakanga Regional Park, Pohutukawa Coast A celebration of love, life, music and individuality, This three-day festival boasts a colossal line up of international artists such as Ebony Bones and Adam Freeland and locals such as Tama Waipara, The Drab Doo Riffs, and Eden and Jol Mulholland. Tickets from $255, from iticket.co.nz Elvis in the Gardens February 23, 12pm-6pm, Auckland Botanic Gardens, FREE Jive to Jailhouse Rock, and bask in Love Me Tender as the 2012 World Champion Memphis Elvis Tribute Artist, Ben Portsmouth and other impersonators of the King, bring the best of Elvis Presley to the beautiful setting of the Auckland Botanic Gardens. Bring a picnic and enjoy an afternoon of timeless music. There will be bouncy castles and face painting for children, and ladies can even indulge in a vintage makeover for $20. Proceeds of a bucket collection will go towards the Heart Foundation. See elvisinthegardens. co.nz for more info.
➤ RECREATION Highbrook Model Airpark Open Day February 9, 9.30am-3pm, Highbrook Park, FREE Attention all model aircraft owners! Bring your radiocontrolled chopper, plane, jet, glider, racer or novelty model to a public open day in East Tamaki and showcase some high-flying aviation skills with a group of like-minded enthusiasts. There is
plenty of air space and a runway for fliers as well as grassy knolls for spectators and displays, so bring the whole family for a fun day out.
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events | eastlife ➤ fESTIVALS Heroic Gardens 2014 February 22 & 23 Mercy me, Auckland’s heroes are back in business! For 18 years, the Heroic Gardens tour has brought some of Auckland’s finest gardens into the limelight, raising funds for worthy causes in the process, and the 2014 incarnation is expected to be no exception. With 21 gardens on show, from Titirangi to Whitford, the festival – hosted by Mercy Hospice – will again include many open to the public for the first time. Visit heroicgardens.org.nz for more information. Howick Lions in the Park Military Tattoo February 23, 9am, Lloyd Elsmore Park, FREE March into the swing of things at this annual military parade event which has become a fun day for the old and young alike. Featuring music from the Smokin’ Bandits, food and craft stalls as well as rides and entertainment for the children, there’s plenty of action to be had. Check out the popular Highland Games and Strongman Event along with Highland and Scottish country dancing. Be entertained by a marching group
of brass and pipe bands, military re-enactments of the New Zealand Armed Constabulary and 65th regiment, Romans and gladiators, and mock battles. Finally, witness an awards ceremony courtesy of the Howick and Pakuranga Times. Lantern Festival February 14-16, 5pm-10pm, Albert Park, CBD, FREE The Lantern Festival is back to ring in the Year of the Horse, one of the most successful and auspicious animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Sample delicious Asian delicacies and picnic on the grass surrounded by beautiful light installations and exotic lanterns. Promising entertainment for the whole family, this year’s line up includes the Tang Dynasty rock band from Beijing, an all-girl Butterfly music group from Hangzhou and Jiangzhou drummers from Shanghai. Pakuranga Village Market Day February 15, 10am-2pm, Pakuranga Park Retirement Village, Pakuranga Rd A popular annual event open to the public, Pakuranga Village’s Market Day has much to offer in the way of fresh food and drinks. Stalls feature home baking, handmade jewellery, Devonshire teas and coffee, jams
and pickles, handicrafts, garden delights from Kings Plant Barn and much more. Join in the fun and excitement with all proceeds going towards disaster relief organisation , ShelterBox. Japan Day February 23, 11am-7.30pm, ASB Showgrounds, FREE There’s more on offer at the annual Japan Day than just sushi. This popular event will feature the best of Japanese culture, food and music for the whole family. Sample interesting and delicious Japanese delights, watch stage performances, and participate in martial arts demos, tea ceremonies, origami, calligraphy and card play. A dedicated children’s corner will be having a line up of fun activities and, as the event draws to a close, a huge, traditional dancing circle will be formed as people dance the night away.
➤ Markets Howick Village Market Every Saturday and Sunday, 9am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick Classy Crafts Every Saturday, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick
Aotearoa Crafts Every Saturday, 9am-4pm, Sunset Tce, Botany Town Centre, Botany Pine Harbour Fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands Clevedon Village Farmers’ Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 PapakuraClevedon Rd, Clevedon Pakuranga Night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza
Ormiston Hospital
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Open Day – Saturday, February 22, 2014 – 10am to 3pm Ormiston Hospital A private surgical hospital accommodating your ACC, Private Health Insurance or Privately Funded Surgical Needs 125 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush, Ph 09 250 1157 Email enquiries@ormistonhospital.co.nz Website www.ormistonhospital.co.nz We are opening our doors to our community and we invite you to take a tour through our beautifully appointed hospital. You will be taken into an Operating Theatre and shown state of the art equipment and have the opportunity to view the warm surroundings of our Ward. Our staff will be on hand to answer questions and you will experience first-hand the friendly, helpful and caring environment that we foster at Ormiston Hospital. Our Vision “To be the preferred private surgical hospital in our region through clinical excellence and superior service” E510106-v5
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eastlife | interview
Coming up Rosses Last year was nothing short of eventful for one local MP and his wife as they juggled political duties, careers and being first-time parents to their young son. To top it all off, the family recently celebrated their first New Year in a new home. NATALIE BRITTAN finds out how they did it. Most would never dream of moving house with a baby in tow, but Botany MP Jami-Lee Ross and his wife, Howick Local Board member, Lucy Schwaner, aren’t most people. “We’ve been together for seven years and this is our fifth house,” says Jami-Lee. This time, however, the civic-minded parents will be staying “for a while”. With the arrival of their firstborn, Henry Schwaner Ross, in 2012, the couple’s former home in Flat Bush no longer felt roomy. “We realised that our old house was quite tight especially when Henry started moving around so we started looking for a bigger place with more living space,” says Lucy. And with two cats and a dog in tow, more outdoor space was also needed. Not wanting to stray too far from their local roots, the serial movers didn’t have to go very far in their quest for a new home. In fact, it was “just up the road” from where they were, says London-born Lucy. From a three-bedroom home with combined kitchen and living areas the young family moved to a four bedroom double-storey with two living rooms, a study, and a dedicated kitchen and living room. “We definitely don’t need more space!” says Lucy. The move took place middle of last year, but the couple admits they are settling in “slowly”. “I went back to work pretty quickly after we moved,” says Lucy, a police fingerprint analyst. “We have some of it sorted but we’re still waiting for more furniture to arrive.” A chaotic “junk room” is apparently lurking somewhere, but on the day of my visit, everything is immaculate. There are no strewn toys in sight,
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not even in Henry’s playroom, and the contemporary decor boasting neutral, earthy tones exudes a warm, welcoming feel. Naturally, more warmth emanates from 20-month-old Henry, a cheerful, bubbly young chap who dances animatedly to last year’s tongue-incheek hit, What Does the Fox Say. With a ready smile and dimples to match, the dark-haired youngster is very much like his father, says Lucy, a natural brunette. “He’s been a lot easier than we imagined,” says the former Macleans College girl. Jami-Lee adds: “He’s healthy, happy, big and strong – we can’t complain at all. He has no allergies and no illnesses. He’s perfection!” While Henry’s easy-going nature is a boon, the career-driven parents still have a lot on their plate. “It can be hard,” says Lucy. “But my work’s pretty flexible and I have a very good boss. Henry’s looked after by a very flexible carer.” For everything else, there’s Henry’s great-grandmother, Sharron Martin, who also raised Jami-Lee. “Jami’s grandmother helps out a lot
and she’s fantastic. We can just call her at the drop of a hat and she’ll come over and look after him. She loves looking after him,” says Lucy, for whom most days begin at 5.30am in the morning. After getting Henry ready and dropping him off at his caregiver, she arrives for work at Auckland Central Police Station at 7.30am, working till 3.30pm. On some days, she then shoots straight off to local board meetings or workshops. Despite such a full-on routine, the soft-spoken 34-year-old has no plans to relinquish any of her roles. “I do need a day off every now and then but the local board is a commitment and I love my job. We just find time to fit everything in.” In fact, Lucy entered a new term in local body politics after being re-elected last year, proving that motherhood has not swayed her focus. The local elections which saw controversial chairman Michael Williams ousted from his position brought a new chapter for elected board members. “It’s been quite positive and we’re all getting along really well,” says Lucy. “There’s a different air about the board now – the atmosphere has changed.”
Meanwhile, Jami-Lee divides his time between the Beehive in Wellington and his Botany office. The year 2013 was an equally big year for the former Pakuranga boy who was the youngest MP to be elected into Parliament nearly three years ago and is now the third National Party whip. “It was a really good year,” he says. “The Prime Minister gave me a small promotion and so I’ve been busy in Parliament.” And it’s about to get a whole lot busier with elections coming up in the middle of this year. Whilst campaigning for re-election will take up most of his time, the doting dad’s focus is on his son. “My goal this year is to try to spend more time with Henry. That’s what I’d like to do. If I was looking for a New Year’s resolution, that’s probably it.” As for Lucy, her aim is to finish the house and she also has plans for the veggie patch. After a low-key Christmas and holiday season spent in their new home, Jami-Lee and Lucy are enjoying “playing tourist in their own city” and visiting new places with their little pride and joy. “Henry is the focus of our life now,” says Jami-Lee. “He is our family and everything we do is all about him.” www.eastlife.co.nz
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What started off as a hobby in Pakuranga is now a Parisian dream come true for national dance champions Shae Mountain and Samantha Gemmell.
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eastlife | profile
Thanks to their winning performances at last year’s New Zealand Dancesport Championships in Christchurch, the pair flew to France last December to compete at the World Dance Council’s Amateur League Championships (WDC-AL), the most prestigious awards in the international dance arena. Thought to be the youngest contestants to represent New Zealand for Latin and ballroom dancing, it was an opportunity of a lifetime for the long-time locals.
Samantha, 18, had always danced as a child. “I used to do hip hop but a girl I knew was doing ballroom and Latin and talked to my mum about it. “I said ‘no, I don’t really want to dance with boys!’ ” she laughs. But the former Pakuranga College girl gave it a go anyway, and the rest is history. “I just like performing in front of people,” says Samantha, adding that she enjoys other aspects such as costumes and makeup. Shae thrives on choreography, but they both agree their strength is in their partnership. “We’ve known each other for so long and pretty much grew up together. You grow with your
“It was amazing. Just watching world champions, you learn more than you do actually dancing for the competition,” says Shae. They may not have twirled their way to the top but Shae says they did not have very high expectations as competitive dancing in New Zealand is still a fledgling sport compared to other countries such as Russia. “This is the furthest we’ve been to compete and we weren’t expecting anything great but we did quite well.”
WIN with
Competing in eight events over the course of three days, Shae and Samantha’s best performance was in the Disney Cup Adult Ballroom category where they reached the third round, ranking 36 over an overall 54. For 19-year-old Shae, dancing began back in primary school, inspired by a teacher who was a social dancer. “It started off just as a hobby, but the more I did it, the more I enjoyed it,” says the former Botany Downs Secondary College student.
www.eastlife.co.nz 14 | eastlife | february 2014
This led to formal classes at the Let’s Dance Studio in Pakuranga where he met and paired up with Samantha eight years ago.
partner and you merge styles – we gel really well.” Under the tutelage of Kingsley Gainsford and Nerida Cortese (of Dancing with the Stars fame), Shae and Samantha now hone their art at a North Shore Dance School. They practise whenever they can or when busy schedules permit – Shae works at the Specsavers’ Sylvia Park store and Samantha studies www.eastlife.co.nz
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Retire in style. Live with ease. Retirement should be a time to do all the things you like. At Dannemora Gardens we make that happen. In this wonderful East Auckland village you will enjoy elegant living and a vibrant community atmosphere. It is a place where there are always fun activities going on and there are a great bunch of people to enjoy them with. However, you can still enjoy complete privacy and peace in the comfort of your own home.
‘
It was amazing. Just watching world champions, you learn more than you do actually dancing for the competition. This is the furthest we’ve been to compete and we weren’t expecting anything great but we did quite well.”
psychology at the University of Auckland. The duo admits dancing has not been the most economical of pursuits but the support of family and friends have made it possible. In fact, Shae’s employer put $2000 towards the Paris trip, lightening their financial burden. “It’s pretty rare to get that kind of
The great location also makes life easy. Botany Town Centre is literally just down the road, which means getting to all the shops, services, eateries and entertainment is a breeze. In fact, you could walk over, drive there in a minute or make the most of the regular village shuttle service! It really is so easy - which is just how retirement should be.
backing from your boss, so Samantha and I are touched and over the moon that Specsavers is supporting our dreams to this extent.” Meanwhile, the seasoned performers are working towards similar goals. “I definitely want to be a professional when I’m older so I can teach and judge,” says Samantha.
TO VIEW
Shae agrees, adding that he would like to “travel a lot and get as far as I can before I’m old.”
Call Peter on �� ��� ����
When he does grow “old”, however, Shae can look forward to the dance achievements of his younger brother, Nicholas, who is following in his footsteps and also won the youth category at the national championships in Christchurch.
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“He’s got a very good eye, and he’s coming up really fast. He’s not too far off from our level.” Backed by his brother’s experience, Nicholas could well be dancing his way to Europe too.
Dannemora eastlife | february 2014 | 15 RHM����
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eastlife | profile
Macleans College – of founding principal(s) When asked about their school days, many a local would confess that they didn’t really turn out bad. And founding principal of Macleans College, Colin Prentice, would agree, as JON RAWLINSON discovered.
At just 35 years, Colin Prentice became the first principal of Macleans College in 1980. More than 20 years after leaving the school, he is adamant that the Macleans’ vision is alive and well. “I think when you leave an organisation, you have no right to tell people how to do their jobs, but it’s gratifying to see Macleans going from strength to strength. It’s in good hands, and I’m still proud. I have no doubt that the school’s future is looking bright.” While he says academic standards are always important, from the outset Colin’s vision for Macleans was to develop well-rounded individuals. “We wanted to educate every child to the best of his or her ability; that was our mantra. We were schooling pupils to gain qualifications but we didn’t
have a huge emphasis on exams. Top effort results in good results anyway. “It was about developing minds. When I was teaching English and the question was ‘what does a poem or a play mean?’ I wouldn’t tell my students what it meant. For Heaven’s sake, the only way to learn is to ask searching questions!” Colin says he considered participation in the classroom and beyond as important as achievement. “Students were strongly encouraged to do something for their school. I think most parents were thrilled we pushed for children to be in a sports team or cultural activities because the worst thing for teenagers is idleness. Most parents know it’s good to keep them busy!” With the country moving away from
corporal punishment (abolished in 1987), Colin implemented an alternative penalty at Macleans – the infamous Prentice Run – whereby students, lead by Colin, went on a boot camp style run, complete with exercises. “It seemed to me a very positive alternative,” he says. “If you had done something fairly serious, you would go on the run. It was tough, but there was camaraderie and a sense of redemption, a chance to earn back respect. “I’ve always found it hard to see how one earns back respect from an hour’s detention but if you had to sweat it out with Prentice and the boys, it tended to make one think, ‘I won’t do that again!’ ” However, a near disaster almost cut short both the Prentice Run
and Colin’s career. “Early on, a boy was really not well. I praise God that I didn’t drive him on; he was determined to keep running and didn’t tell me. When he did, we stopped immediately, but he had to go to hospital – it was an unexpected asthma attack. “As a result, I offered to resign but the board wouldn’t accept. However, I then introduced very stringent measures which meant nobody was forced to go – the alternative being detentions – I had a teacher with me on every run and prefects to exercise leadership. Also, we always checked regarding medical conditions and the like.” Following a scholarship to London focused on improving school effectiveness, Colin decided to leave Macleans in 1989 to take up a new posting at his former high school.
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16 | eastlife | february 2014
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Bright local pupils – vision for future
All rounder – Colin Prentice
“When I left school, I had a couple of dreams – to be a principal as young as possible and to be principal of Mount Roskill Grammar.
Founding principal of Macleans College, Colin Prentice, says while the education industry will always face challenges, local parents can expect quality education for their children.
“After starting at Macleans, the second of those dreams almost disappeared. But it was re-awakened in London where I visited schools in underprivileged areas and saw they were doing far better than imagined.
“Our teachers do a blooming good job! I understand employers who say, ‘they can’t read, they can’t spell’ and so on, but that’s a perennial cry. That comment was made when I started teaching and it’s still being made now!
“I came home thinking that I was working at a privileged school so I had better put my money where my mouth was!
“Everybody wants a higher standard from the kids and I’m all for it. Overall, though, we do it well! I have grandchildren who will go to school in New Zealand and I’m not at all terrified about what they’re facing.”
“The principal’s role at Mount Roskill Grammar became available 18 months after I returned home. My faith would say I was being lead on; there was a call to return to Roskill!” At Mount Roskill, Colin was faced with new challenges. “I stepped from decile 10 at Macleans, to decile two. Whereas Macleans kids aimed and expected to reach the top, I felt a number of Roskill students had almost given up before they started. One actually said, ‘you came to bring the glory back to Mount Roskill, didn’t you?’ “Every school is different. The motto of Mount Roskill Grammar is Sursum, which means ‘to the heights’. The goal was to become the best multicultural school in New Zealand. It was very hard work, but I think we largely achieved that.” After five years at Mount Roskill, Colin’s career took him on a new direction from Rwanda to Kosovo as CEO of World Vision, the largest aid agency in New Zealand. “I managed to get overheads down and I’m proud of the efficiencies we made without imperilling the quality of work,” he says. “I naively thought people would hear about Rwanda and queue up to give us money; well that was absolute rubbish! To get money for the cause I had to write to them, plead and say, ‘do you realise how many people are dying? Look at all these orphans!’ ” www.eastlife.co.nz
‘
While some postings may attract better teachers, Colin believes the best teachers will naturally gravitate to where they can most make a difference.
We wanted to educate every child to the best of his or her ability; that was our mantra. We were schooling pupils to gain qualifications but we didn’t have a huge emphasis on exams. Top effort results in good results anyway.”
In 2000, Colin returned to education. “Out of the blue, the chancellor of Auckland University rang and said, ‘I have a job for you.’ I said ‘I already have a job,’ he said, ‘I know you have a job, you beggar, you keep writing to me and I have to give you money!’ “The end result was I headed up the Schools’ Division Partnership Office. It was destined to improve the relationship between the university and secondary schools. “We introduced scholarships and mentoring schemes whereby we sent university students to lower decile schools to show pupils what they needed to do to get to Uni.” Looking back on a lengthy career, Colin says a commitment to leadership and learning was always his guide.
“I went into teaching simply because I was taught by brilliant teachers. I saw how amazing they were. My time as head prefect at Mount Roskill made me realise I loved leadership and there’s a strong leadership element in being a good teacher.” Since moving on from Macleans, Colin’s legacy remains and he often returns to the school. “I go back for major functions and I live close by, so I often take visitors to the grounds and, if there are teachers about, they’re happy with me showing off the school.” One such return visit was the 2013 senior prize giving, where Colin presented the Prentice All Rounder Cup for Girls to student Naa EunKim. “In many respects I think the All Rounder is the most important cup because it says that the winner has worked hard at their studies, while involving themselves in sport, arts, culture, leadership and service. “Nothing you do is going to be of great worth unless there’s an element of service attached to it.”
“Some will be drawn to more attractive areas, but there’s a category of teacher who says, with that missionary fervour, ‘I’m going teaching to look after kids from underprivileged areas,’ so I don’t think it’s straightforward. Most teachers I’ve known have gone into teaching to make a difference.” Colin also believes there has to be constant research about how to get the best people teaching in the right areas. “I’ve watched all kinds of incentives and they work, to an extent. What our country stands for is a quality of teaching which allows even kids from impoverished backgrounds to be inspired to achieve.” While decile ratings are an important guide when it comes to allocating resources and exam results indicative of overall standards, Colin says schools should be judged on more than numbers. “I think exam results are a useful indicator, but I’m a great one for saying, ‘go and see’. The best test is to watch students as they leave, or take a tour and observe the level of supervision. Get a feel for what the kids are like. And, of course, it’s always interesting to ask them how they feel about their school.” eastlife | february 2014 |
17
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Honwin shen and son, edwin
From the horse’s mouth The Chinese zodiac is serious business with birth rates soaring or plunging depending on the year. NATALIE BRITTAN finds out what implications it has for a Howick man born in the Year of the Horse. He may work like a horse, and was born in a Year of the Horse which looms again for 2014/15, but Honwin Shen has never ridden a horse in his lifetime. Arriving from China with his family in his late teens, the 35-yearold, however, did see a few horses when he lived in the nearby rural town of Waiuku. Now at home in suburban Somerville, Honwin says the Chinese zodiac wasn’t central to his growing up and in his family life. “It’s not a big thing for us – maybe I’ve spent too much time in New Zealand!” However, the father of two young sons does have certain ‘horse’ traits. “Horses are generally hardworking and diligent and I think I do fit that description. I’m also quite active – I like exercise and running.” Wife, Cailing chimes in, saying her husband will exercise whatever the weather. “Even when it’s raining, he’ll still be out there!”
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Although she doesn’t share his love of the outdoors, Chinese-born Cailing says they get along really well. Born in the Year of the Chicken, she says her
best friends tend to be horses too. Although people born in the Year of the Horse tend to be more outgoing, Honwin says it’s the ‘horse’ work ethic that is probably more prominent in him. “I’m quite determined and never give up and that’s what helps me in work. When I do things I tend to see them through,” says the Auckland Council transport engineer. If he runs into any issues he will adopt a can-do, positive attitude. “There are always problems along the way but you find ways to solve them.” And when it comes to finances, this horse is a little more cautious, bucking the spendthrift traits of other equine folk. “Honwin is the finance minister in this house!” jokes Cailing. “But he’s very generous with friends and family – only tight with me.” Seriously speaking, however, Honwin says family takes precedence over everything else. “I’m a family man; horses like to stay together as a family and like them I’m very focused on my children.” www.eastlife.co.nz
Horses for courses stakes. Because of such dominant qualities, they can be stubborn and insubordinate – breaking in is required! Colleagues of horses, take heed.
There’s certainly no horsing around when a stallion or mare enters the stables whether at work, play, or at home. And as Chinese New Year rings in the Year of the Horse, it brings to mind some horsey attributes that are likely to make equine ones a mate for life or a mate for strife.
• Easy-going – Despite the latter, this majestic beast can also be surprisingly downto-earth and caring. Its kind and perceptive nature is conducive to forming strong relationships. Here’s a lover who’s a keeper!
Conflict aside, those born in the Year of the Horse – 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, and from the middle of this month onwards – should celebrate the result of their good breeding with these qualities:
• Positivity – Generally robust and optimistic, horses make great communicators and are known for their leadership, management and astute decision making qualities. However, being a hot blooded creature, it can often be impulsive and be more flamboyant especially when it comes to finances. Those yearning for a fast and furious life would do best to
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• Perseverance – settle down with a horse; and those looking for a slower pace had better put those blinkers on when one trots past.
• Energetic – Powerful, dynamic, and active, a horse is the life of any party. Constantly champing at the bit and wowing crowds with its vivacious sense of humour, this show pony comes out tops in the popularity
chinese new year | eastlife
Lunar festivities The Lunar New Year is celebrated by many eastern cultures, not just the Chinese. Join in the festive mood at the Lunar New Year Colourful Gala to be held at the Howick Library, Uxbridge Road on Saturday, February 15, from 11am-1pm. Witness a vibrant union of colours with Korean percussion, Mulan boxing, lion dancing, Chinese games and food to celebrate this special occasion.
Nothing rivals the stamina of a horse, and this leads to the pursuit of success in all endeavours. Showing remarkable endurance, a horse never gives up, resulting in the achievement of many great things. There be no modest mice, only high horses!
Bring the littlies to a fun, bilingual wriggle and rhyme session at the Botany Library, Chapel Road on Thursday, February 13, from 10.4511.15am.
With all that said, there’s no holding a horse from ringing in Chinese New Year – so giddy up and enjoy the ride!
Finally, watch Albert Park in the city come to life with the annual Lantern Festival on February 13-16, 2pm-9pm.
Engage in English and Mandarin and see the youngsters have a ball.
eastlife | february 2014 |
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eastlife | sport
Local lifts medals, weights When EastLife last spoke to Daniel Holliday, the Pakuranga powerlifter was busy training for the Commonwealth and Oceania Powerlifting / Benchpress Championships. Following the event, he again spoke with JON RAWLINSON. Since picking up powerlifting little more than a year ago, Daniel Holliday has quickly risen to the top of the sport in New Zealand. Despite late setbacks leading up to the recent Commonwealth and Oceania championships, he says he was reasonably happy with his performance. “I came away with 4 medals. I secured second place in my deadlift, third in benchpress, third in my squat and placed third overall in the Commonwealth,” he says. “I was a bit disappointed things didn’t go entirely right for me on the day; I suffered from severe cramps, which stopped me from lifting to my potential.” And, an unorthodox injury hampered preparations making it difficult for Daniel to put his best foot forward.
20 | eastlife | february 2014
“I burnt the bottom of my feet! I was going fishing and I had to run through a car park but the sun was so hot that it had actually melted the tar and it stuck to my feet. It was quite painful.
next competition a much leaner and stronger lifter!” Daniel’s next major challenge will be the IPF RAW Classics Powerlifting Championships in Johannesburg in June. He says he intends to carry on pursuing his dreams of becoming the strongest Raw Powerlifter in New Zealand.
“Because my feet were badly blistered, I wasn’t able to complete my strength peaking programme correctly so, unfortunately, I didn’t go into the competition at my strongest.
Meteoric rise
“But under the circumstances I did all right. I tried my best and I still came away with four medals.” Looking ahead, Daniel is actually intending to lose weight, in order to gain it. “There’s going to be a slight change in direction for me during the first few months of 2014. I’ll be changing my routines and hopefully I’ll go into my
daniel holliday
Born in Durban, South Africa, Daniel moved with his family to New Zealand, aged 13. The former Pakuranga College student turned his talents to powerlifting a little over a year ago. “It’s a huge sport in America and Australia and becoming more popular here,” he says. “Hopefully I can become a professional in New Zealand.”
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eastlife | competitions
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 February 28, 2014. Winners notified by phone or email.
WIN! LANOCORP BY NATURE PRIZE PACK The good earth does wonders for plants but can wreak havoc on our hands so Lanocorp’s By Nature beauty brand is good news for keen gardeners and those who want their skin to look its best at all times. This skin-enriching range has it all – quality products exquisitely formulated with restorative natural ingredients such as organic Rosehip Oil, Argan Oil, Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E. By Nature products are natural and uncomplicated and free of parabens and harmful preservatives. Available from The Warehouse you can be in to win the range by entering our draw for the Hydrating Day Crème, SPF 15, Replenshing Night Crème, Firming Eye Serum, Bee Venom Face Crème valued at just under $45.
WIN! BUTTERSCOTCH LOVERS DELUXE GIFT BOX Lace your coffee or dress up your desserts when you take home this Butterscotch Lovers Deluxe Gift Box from the Prenzel Tasting Room at Whitford Village. Thanks to mother and daughter team of Mavis Griffiths and Sarah Dodson, from Prenzel of Whitford, EastLife has one box to give away to a lucky reader. It contains one bottle of Prenzel butterscotch cream liqueur, one bottle of Prenzel butterscotch schnapps, two liqueur glasses with paua shell design and a bottle of liqueur truffles valued at $137.50 – what a prize so enter the draw or to check out more gourmet gifts visit the shop in Whitford Village. See story page 55.
WIN! MAISON THERESE PRESERVES Here’s a chance to really ‘relish’ summer barbecues and picnics with tangy Maison Therese preserves. Enter our draw and be in to win four 330g jars of these fabulous products – Kiwi-style Tomato Relish, sweet Balsamic Onion Relish, lively Beetroot Relish and scrumptious Piccalilli. All four quality products are gluten and dairyfree, and contain no artificial flavours, preservatives or colouring. Maison Therese products are available from supermarkets and specialty food stores nationwide.
WIN! FAMILY PASS FOR FOUR TO A HOYTS CINEMA When it comes to a night at the movies the summer season is offering something for everyone from animated masterpieces through to tearjerkers, comedy and plenty of rough and tumble. What’s more, here’s a chance for one lucky family to win four passes to a Hoyts cinema where they can enjoy a movie of choice. So, enter the draw because next month family night could mean family night at ‘the flicks’. However, we’ll leave you to decide who wants to see what!
WIN! FOR THE LOVE OF VEG BY BRYN WILLIAMS With the services of TV chef extraordinaire, Bryn Williams, at our disposal, here’s a chance to fill up on glorious, home-grown fruit and veggies? In his latest work, Bryn provides a plethora of healthy recipes designed to make the most of in-season garden fare. Yes, there are a few cuts of meat included here and there to keep the dishes interesting but in For the Love of Veg, it’s fruit and veggies that play the starring role and these recipes are indeed stars! So enter the draw for a copy of For the Love of Veg by Bryn Williams, published by Kyle Books, Distributed in New Zealand by New Holland. RRP $59.99
WIN! SPECIAL EDITION BLUEBERY BODY PRODUCTS With Valentine’s Day looming here’s a prize draw courtesy of The Body Shop that shouts love and indulgence – new Special Edition Blueberry Body Care products including Blueberry Body Butter (RRP $36) packed with the oil of 500 bouncy blueberries, rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids to provide long-lasting moisturisation and skin nourishment; Blueberry Body Scrub-Gelee (RRP $34.75) and a bonus mini jar of organic blueberry chutney for good measure.
For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 22 | eastlife | february 2014
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THE
Bride
tying the
GUIDE
knot
Once in awhile, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale. – Anonymous
When the love of your life pops that all important question, “will you marry me?” it doesn’t take long before bridal plans take over from engagement excitement.
At that point some grooms may make a beeline for the bloke’s shed at the bottom of the garden leaving blushing brides to make all the arrangements.
After all the wedding day is the most significant event in a couple’s life.
But not everyone is content to leave the dreaming, the planning, the ordering and the buying to the bride. Not even the bride in some cases. The idea of bringing everything together successfully can be daunting, and for some a wedding planner could be the answer.
Of course, in that first delirium of love and exhilaration, nothing seems more wonderful than organising the event but by the time the big day arrives, joy may well have turned to tears on several occasions. That’s why having a plan, or even a planner, from the very start is a wise move when there is a mountain of issues to think about – wedding and reception venues, dress, shoes, flowers, celebrant, photographer, attendants (male and female), invitations, transport, entertainment, wedding favours, cake, family configurations, speeches, the honeymoon and much more. Once past the all important purchase of the engagement ring and the announcement to friends and family that there are wedding bells in the air, the real planning begins.
invites | rings | venues | honeymoon | essentials
In many cases a planner will mean savings on time and costs, no fruitless running around after items that may prove unsuitable and no worrying about whether bookings have been confirmed, deposits paid or items picked up.
bridal couples and their families free to enjoy themselves on the big day. But whatever one decides the key is to start early and that could be a whole year in advance of the wedding day. So, for couples who have just committed to tying the knot, it’s time to make plans. Hopefully the following pages will set those plans in motion, making the journey easy whilst providing a taste of wedding day bliss.
Better still, no panic if an unexpected hitch arises and, importantly, no budget blowouts. But, best of all, a neutral party who can calm family tensions, which are likely to arise from time to time, and ensure everything runs to timetable leaving
Fisher House, an enchanting & timeless wedding venue Treat your loved one to our Valentine’s Day 6-course degustation menu specially prepared by our top European chef. Only $79 per person.
Includes glass of selected wine each Bookings essential
117 Kerwyn Avenue, Highbrook For bookings call us on (09) 271 1066 email: info@fisherhouse.co.nz • www.fisherhouse.co.nz E510249
www.eastlife.co.nz
eastlife | february 2014 |
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eastlife | weddings
eastlife | weddings
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There’s nothing quite like a wedding invitation to arouse excitement about a day of love and marriage but which also signals a fun and glamorous event for guests too.
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576 8689 View our website for terms and conditions.
www.brightwhite.co.nz E512062
Indeed, a wedding invitation doesn’t just advise date, time and venue, it is an essential clue as to what type of wedding it will be and what sort of dress is expected. There’s an enormous range of stationery available and most couples will easily find something to suit their style, budget and personality.
E510223
. Hand Crafted Rings . Direct Diamond Importers . Duty Free Agents . Finance Options Available . Insurance Quotations . All Jewellery Repairs
24 | eastlife | february 2014
But wedding stationery isn’t limited to invitations and envelopes – it can also cover pew cards, order of service, hymn/song sheets, place cards, gift registry cards, RSVP cards, cake bags, thank-you cards and albums. While ready-to-go invitations are readily available and there are numerous printers and graphic artists who can cater for special requests, many modern couples now prefer to make their own wedding invitations.
“And think not that you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.” – Khalil Gibran’s The Prophet send them to relatives and family friends you know can’t attend. In the past, invitations were usually formally written in the third person and were extended by the hosts of the wedding, traditionally the bride’s parents. But these days many couples prefer to extend the invitation themselves and opt for a more informal approach in the wording. However, regardless of how the invitation is formatted, remember to include:
In fact, the choice of materials and ideas can be overwhelming. Shopping around will help you to compare value, quality and different styles.
♥ who is marrying ♥w ho is invited to (ceremony and/or reception) ♥ date and time ♥ venue details ♥ type of reception (cocktails, dinner) ♥ dress code ♥R SVP details (date should be four to six weeks before the date of the wedding)
Many people have design packages on their home computers for printing invitations, place cards and the likes. Others may want to use craft materials to create something special or to fit a theme – the ideas are endless.
Include a map with easy directions to the ceremony location and reception venue, and a list of accommodation options close by for out-of-town guests. You may also want to include a note about your venue’s policy on confetti.
Whatever you choose, be sure everyone on the guest list is sent an invitation – many people like to keep them as souvenirs. You should also
Finally, try to post all your invitations at once – you might offend someone who receives a invitation much later than someone else! www.eastlife.co.nz
weddings | eastlife
With this ring, I thee
Wed
Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction. – Antoine de Saint-Exupery So you’ve found the girl of your dreams, proposed marriage in a romantic location and, unlike come guys, you resisted the impulse to buy a ring in advance. Good for you!
interests, culture or an element of romance personal to them.
Some brides will choose a classic, round stone in a timeless design – the solitaire and three stone settings are as popular today as they ever were – but modern couples now tend to explore contemporary settings, multiple stones, combining different precious stones and also taking the cut into consideration. Some options include:
While some would-be grooms may have risked picking the perfect stone and setting, in today’s modern world many couples prefer to do the choosing together. In particular, brides may have a personal preference when it comes to design, the type of stones used and the cut. The size and shape of her hands may also influence her choice. Some couples will even order their wedding rings at the same time ensuring they are a match or that style of the bride’s wedding ring sits well with her engagement ring.
♥ The Radiant – a princess cut but with hexagonal corners. ♥ The Baguette – a longer, more rectangular stone once used on either side of a main stone but now coming into its own as a central stone. ♥ Coloured stones – aquamarines, emeralds and sapphires – are popular choices and there is a growing preference for more working of metals to provide added detail to mountings. When shopping for an engagement ring, ask about the clarity, colour and
‘
The first exchange of wedding rings was about 5000 years ago in Egypt where they were regarded as a never-ending circle of eternal love. The hole in the centre symbolised a gateway leading to the new and unknown. The Egyptians believed that the fourth finger of the hand contained a special vein that led directly to the heart so this finger became the official ‘ring’ finger.”
the grade of stones. Remember that two stones can be the same size and weight, yet due to the difference in grade, they may be vastly different in price. Like everything, buying the engagement and wedding rings should not be done in haste. Take time to look around and seek advice before making your final choice then wear it/them with pride.
E510101
Although most jewellers offer a cabinet of rings to choose from today’s discriminating young couples may well opt to have wedding rings made in order to reflect their special
♥ The Ascher – a traditional emerald cut with a longer, more octagonal shape and more facets for extra sparkle.
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eastlife | weddings
Your wedding
Your Way at the Lounge A hidden gem, The Lounge is an intimate, boutique function venue, located in Howick Valley. The décor is eclectic and creates a wonderful ambience for a remarkable wedding and superb backdrop for your wedding photography. The Lounge is available to hire in its entirety so is ideal for your ceremony and wedding reception, engagement party or to renew your wedding vows. We offer function options ranging from stand-up canapé and cocktail reception to a formal wedding breakfast.
Because your event is limited only by your imagination let us help you create your perfect celebration @ The Lounge. Seated meal capacity 60 Total venue capacity 100 186 Wellington Street, Howick www.howicklounge.co.nz
perfect partner Couple The Lounge experience with Valley de Sol accommodation, where we can offer you a complete package for the bride and groom or your guests. Valley de Sol is a stylish private Home and Studio designed with the same charm, wit and love you will find at The Lounge. Valley de Sol’s surroundings are glorious, accommodating up to 12 guests, so perfect for your out of
town friends and family. We can provide you with fully serviced accommodation or self catering. A tranquil setting ideal for wedding photography, as well as being the perfect place to unwind before your big day. www.valleydesol.co.nz
Unique Venue For Hire The perfect setting for your wedding with the ambience that will create lifelong memories. We welcome you to view at 186 Wellington St, Howick.
Valley de Sol in the heart of Howick offers you stylish accommodation for the bride and groom or your guests and is a unique option for intimate weddings.
www.howicklounge.co.nz Phone: 535 1397 Fax: 535 1497
VA L L E Y
d e
S O L
www.valleydesol.co.nz email: info@valleydesol.co.nz Phone: 0274 949961 E510033-v5
26 | eastlife | february 2014
www.eastlife.co.nz
weddings | eastlife
weddings | eastlife
Magic venues a matter of Setting a wedding date may seem straight forward but before one can say, ‘here comes the bride’ there’s the not so small question of a wedding venue and reception lounge. In some cases they may be one and the same and, depending on the setting couples have in mind, their choice may well influence the date. Questions to ask are what dates are available, what other events are planned or booked around your desired wedding day, how many guests can the venue accommodate, what is the charge and is it inclusive of food and refreshments or are caterers needed, how long will you have the facility for and is there on-site parking? Popular venues need to be booked well in advance especially if planning to marry on a Saturday during summer. If there is another big event planned for that day consider how it might impact on yours. The type of wedding planned will usually dictate the style of reception
Choice
so ask yourself, will the wedding be a lavish, seated affair with set courses and traditional seating arrangements or will it be a mix and mingle celebration with finger food? While a small, classy restaurant is perfect for an intimate soiree with close friends and family, larger weddings usually require a venue which specialises in wedding functions and can provide everything from a choice of menus and drinks to tableware and wait staff. Be sure the size of the venue will accommodate your guests (and entertainment plans such as stage or dance floor) but it shouldn’t be oversized either and be clear as to what is covered in the hire fee. As many venues are set in beautiful grounds, couples may also decide to hold the ceremony close by or even at the venue itself. This arrangement means guests have only one venue to drive to and have no need to move from one location to another. Alternatively, bridal couples could
hire a hall or clubrooms or ‘borrow’ a friend’s gorgeous garden. This will mean organising a catering firm but with plenty to choose from, everything from pre-dinner canapés through to elaborate buffets or casual barbecue style, is available. If hiring a hall or marquee, you may need to decorate such venues yourself and hire tables and chairs.
However, wedding speeches don’t need to be stomach-churning events or full of long pauses. Follow a few guidelines and apprehension will turn to confidence. Firstly, remember to consider who you are talking about. For the groom it is essential to compliment the bride and perhaps share a few special courtship moments. www.eastlife.co.nz
Finally, an overseas venue can’t be ignored in this modern age. Exotic island locations have become hugely popular for weddings with receptions on the same resort site. Consult a travel agent for advice or if you have a particular island destination and resort in mind contact the management there.
Vineyards have become increasingly popular for ceremonies and receptions but if choosing an outdoor location be sure to have a back-up plan in case of rain. Should the day be wet, many al fresco settings
Many Pacific (and Asian) resorts have their own wedding planners. Such weddings can be a wonderful way to combine wedding and honeymoon and include time with family and friends.
Town
For some reason guys who can talk their heads off about the rugby, cricket or sailing are speechless on their wedding day especially when it comes to confidently acknowledging family and friends and the beautiful bride!
Also remember to ask if sun umbrellas are provided should the sun beat down.
If marrying in a church, with the reception venue far away, hiring a bus to shuttle guests to and from the venue will ensure no drink driving, and a fun atmosphere guaranteed!
talk of the
Mention wedding speeches and you’ll hear a variety of reactions including a few groans from the men.
have inadequate covered space for ceremonies.
“Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”
– Emily Brontë
When acknowledging parents, focus on the qualities you love best eg dad’s endless patience and understanding, mother’s constant care, father-in-law’s good humour or mother-in-law’s sense of fun.
Finally, speeches are far less formal and fewer in quantity than in the past. It is no longer necessary to reply to every speech; what once took two or three speeches can often be encompassed in one speech.
Have ready two or three funny/ romantic/endearing stories about those people you need to mention eg Mum’s always been renowned for her baking but I remember the time…. And remember real life stories are better than tired jokes.
Also, women no longer defer to the ‘male only’ tradition for speeches. Very often both bride and groom will address guests and mothers of the bride are just as likely as their husbands to say a few words.
Use notes but resist the urge to write a speech in full. Rather, list a few key trigger words to remind you of points to mention. A ‘skeleton’ speech on a series of small cards will help make delivery sound natural and heartfelt. Speak
slowly and look up as much as possible. Don’t worry if you overlook something. Just retrace your steps and make light of it. The main thing is to have fun – talking to a crowd is no more difficult than talking to a group of friends.
Being that it is your wedding day the speeches can be as many or as few as you want but those traditional thank-yous should not be dispensed with. Remember, everyone will be in the mood to share in your joy and special thoughts so just relax and enjoy. eastlife | february 2014 |
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For personal assistance contact Michelle Gain, Wedding Coordinator on (09) 526 3029 or spec.events@waipunahotel.co.nz www.waipunahotel.co.nz
28 | eastlife | february 2014
www.eastlife.co.nz
E510198-v2
register your
weddings | eastlife
Wedding List at the studio of tableware A wedding list at The Studio of Tableware has become part of many of New Zealand’s most successful weddings since its introduction more than 30 years ago. On display in the showroom is a spectacular collection of dinnerware, cutlery (New Zealand’s largest quality range), glassware and crystal, cookware, kitchenware, linen and gifts with parking at the door.
‘
The Studio of Tableware offers quality, design and selection. A wedding list at The Studio of Tableware will enhance your wedding.”
Register your Wedding List with us and enjoy the benefits . . . Quality, Design, Selection - world famous brands with many exclusive to us in NZ Flexibility - most of the items in our sets can be purchased individually Delivery - complimentary delivery service within Auckland
Compiling a list of gift suggestions for guests to choose from is a thoughtful way of ensuring an enjoyable experience as there is no guess work and the guest knows that the gift will be truly appreciated.
Gift Wrapping - exquisite complimentary wrapping On Line Register - display your Wedding List online and your guests can purchase online, in store or by phone Service - friendly well-trained consultants to assist you and your guests Special Incentives - gift voucher and discount card, plus superior European brands
For the bridal couple there is no risk of duplications and they can cherish the gifts that commemorate their special day.
The Studio consultants are happy to assist with the wedding list at any time. Attentive assistance is given to each guest when they visit the showroom to view the register and complimentary gift wrapping reflects the superior service provided.
The Studio’s expertise includes a prearranged delivery service and meticulous documentation (to assist with acknowledgements) and gives the couple the assurance that every aspect of their register is being overseen by professionals. The Studio of Tableware 5 Harold Street, Mt Eden Ph 638 8082, www.thestudio.co.nz
Howick Historical Village
Step back in time
1850s church ceremony or marry at one of the many charming outdoor locations within the Village. Superb photographic opportunities. A rare chance to blend the past with the present. We’ll make your wedding day a successful and memorable one.
Photography by Unique Wedding Photography Ltd
www.eastlife.co.nz
Howick Historical Village Phone 576 9506 www.fencible.org.nz
This famous American company has over 120 years experience, “from the White House to your house”. View their unique display of Presidential dinnerware in our showroom during February. Lenox tableware portrays quality and style. See our comprehensive collection of bridal giftware, glassware, crystal and tableware - from contemporary to the luxurious.
We look forward to seeing you in store to discuss your Wedding List requirements.
the studio
OF TABLEWARE
NZ’s leading tableware specialist since 1981
www.thestudio.co.nz
5 Harold Street, Mt Eden, Auckland ph 09 638 8082 parking right outside the door open 7 days Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5.30 Sat & Sun 10.00 - 4.00
E510234
A small card can be provided to inform guests that the wedding list has been registered at The Studio of Tableware and that it may be viewed online at www.thestudio. co.nz.
E510220
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eastlife | weddings
setting out on the
Honeymoon Dreams of a petal-strewn, king-size bed in a secluded Pacific bure or waves lapping at the edge of an over-the-water bungalow may be perfect honeymoon idylls for some couples. Others may see themselves at a luxurious chateau relaxing in front of an open fire with brandy and chocolates after a day on the ski slopes. The reality is, honeymoon destinations are often governed not only by personal desires but by time, budget, weather and distance.
And while overseas destinations have become increasingly popular for honeymoon escapes (and weddings too), don’t discount a New Zealand sojourn – this country offers its own beautiful locations. Remember, it’s the honeymoon destination for many overseas couples! In being practical, first off think about budget, then how far you want to travel and your time frame before settling on a location.
This is why the head sometimes has to rule the heart when planning that special time together when first becoming man and wife.
If seeking a holiday in the tropics, then consider a winter wedding here but if the time frame demands a summer wedding in New Zealand, yet sun and sand is still a priority, then look locally for your honeymoon.
When considering the honeymoon there’s absolutely no point booking a trip to Greece if the time frame is just a few days or the budget will stretch to a week in Queenstown at the most.
Cyclones and extremely high humidity often make the Pacific Islands unpleasant during our summer. Better to luxuriate there when our weather cools.
Also consider whether you want a secluded honeymoon location or one offering sightseeing, sports, adventure or other leisure activities. For some folk, a cruise which visits several destinations, and offers plenty of on board entertainment and activities, may be the answer. Although the Mediterranean or Asia may beckon, shorter cruises leaving from Brisbane, to visit several Australian ports before taking in New Zealand’s scenic coastline, could be the perfect solution.
Of course, these days with many couples having already built a home together, one option to help honeymoon dreams come true is to request a ‘honeymoon donation’ from guests instead of other gifts. This has become perfectly acceptable in recent years and can add the ‘icing to the getaway cake’. Some travel firms will handle such monetary gifts for you. But whatever you decide, be sure to plan wisely and book early. This way you’ll enjoy the aftermath of the wedding day as much as the event itself.
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eastlife | weddings
Wedding
essentials
Prepare for your big day with Gaia Day Spa
Wedding Celebrant Hi, my name is Malcolm and I’ve been a celebrant for 15 years. Let me help make your day a special occasion that is unique and personalised. I’m based in Auckland and am a member of the Celebrants Association.
At
Leathersmiths
we can colour match shoes for that ‘finishing touch’ We can match to fabric samples with an almost unlimited palette and speciality top coats.
Personalised packages available
Malcolm Sweetman J.P. Ph 09 535 9014 Mob 021 0812 7081 18 Camwell Close Bucklands Beach, Akld
Leather, vinyl, silk or satin shoes $65 a pair
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We do bags and hats too!
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Ph 534 3390 www.gaiadayspa.co.nz
LEATHERSMITHS LTD
Gaia Day Spa Level 1, Unit 8 Marina Compass Complex Half Moon Bay
29A Sir William Ave, East Tamaki. Ph 273-4940. www.leathersmiths.co.nz email leathersmiths@xtra.co.nz E512129
ROCHELLE FLEMING
Ask in store about our Wedding Registry Harvey World Travel Botany Town Botany Town Centre Phone: (09) 277 2010
seats up to 120
Contact Donna 09-2711042 donna@sweetmotif.co.nz www.sweetmotif.co.nz
E512134
www.howpres.org.nz
HWT3144
Phone 09 535 4403
Spa Party
Mineral Skin Spa 335-c Ti Rakau Drive mineralspa.co.nz
With Bridesmaids 09-2715294
IS YOUR BACK Warm, friendly, relaxed and professional SCREAMING PAIN? – the perfect Celebrant for your perfect day
Kathy Bigwood
Let us organise your celebration favours and make your special day memorable with our personalised chocolates and wedding favours
VOWS4U 21B Southern Cross Rd, Kohimarama, Auckland
Divine Indulgence Spa Package Includes: - Mineral Salt Smoothing Back Scrub - Warm Oil Back Massage - Hydrating Radiant Facial Only - Eye Brow Shape valued at $215
$99
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32 | eastlife | february 2014
E512131
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Personalised Wedding Favours
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Ph 533 7852 / 021 273 3968 rochelle@nzcelebrant.co.nz nzweddingcelebrant.co.nz
Or talk to us to create your own package
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Ph 521 7143 Mobile 021 432 855 Email kbigwood@xtra.co.nz
www.vows4u.co.nz
E510219
Fully restored historic chapel available for weddings
will tailor a ceremony, reflecting your story, filled with fun, warmth and personal touches – your perfect ceremony
www.eastlife.co.nz
THE
weddings | eastlife
Wedding
“There is nothing half so sweet in life as love’s young dream.”
Planner
6-12 Months ♥ Decide on the type of wedding, number of guests and prepare a budget.
♥ Decide when and where you would like
3-5 Months ♥ By now the wedding gown should be
organised or purchased, the style of the groom’s suit chosen and booked or purchased.
your ceremony and reception to be held, check availability of venues and book.
♥ Best man and groomsmen’s suits, and
♥ Choose and book a celebrant or meet with the
♥ Choose and order invitations, write and send.
minister or priest of your chosen church.
♥ Choose a photographer or videographer and
1-2 Months ♥ Have a trial hair and make-up session. ♥ Contact celebrant, minister or priest, check
all is in order and arrange rehearsal date with all people concerned.
attendants’ dresses should be organised.
♥ Meet with photographer and discuss
♥ Final fittings for all bridal party members. ♥ Apply to the Registrar of Births, Deaths and
Marriages for a marriage licence. (Valid for three months from issue.)
book.
arrangements, photo preferences, locations.
♥ Contact the people you would like as your
♥ Decide on accessories for the wedding party. Book florist.
of numbers attending. When finalised, consult your caterer.
♥ Choose a colour scheme or theme for your
♥ Finalise your guest list.
♥ Order wine and finalise the menu with
bridal attendants, best man, groomsmen, etc.
wedding.
♥ Begin the search for the wedding gown. If you decide to have one made, choose the designer and dressmaker.
♥ Draw up a provisional guest list.
♥ Choose and order cake. ♥ Book make-up artist and hairdresser.
and flowers for church and reception finalised.
♥ Re-confirm all arrangements, eg honeymoon, photographer, car hire, hair and make-up, suits, dresses, flowers, venues, caterers, etc.
♥ Wear in your wedding shoes (bride and groom). ♥ If you’re having a hens’ or stags’ night, do it now – not the night before the wedding!
♥ Confirm with attendants, best man, family or
friends, things that need doing after the wedding (eg returning hired clothing, taking care of the bride’s gown, storing wedding gifts, etc) and decide who’s doing what.
caterers.
♥ Arrange reception seating plan and place cards.
♥ Choose wedding rings. ♥ Learn wedding dance.
2 Weeks ♥ Visit your florist to have detailing of bouquets
♥ Check the RSVPs from guests and keep a list
1 Week ♥ Don’t panic. ♥ Hold a full rehearsal of the ceremony. ♥ Do a dummy run through the journey at the
same time and day of the week as the ceremony to be sure transport and timing is correct. Plan an alternative route in case of delays on the day.
♥ Arrange for any hire items to be collected.
Check List Wedding venue Reception venue Celebrant Photographer Musicians and entertainment Wedding gown Caterers Florist
♥ Have a facial, massage, manicure and pedicure.
Transport
♥ With the preparation over, you can now relax
Wedding night accommodation
and enjoy your wedding day!
♥ Those giving speeches should be planning what to say!
Honeymoon destination The cake Rings Make-up artist Hairdresser Groom’s suit Best man/groomsmen’s suits Hire equipment (tables, chairs, etc) Attendants’ dresses Invitations
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eastlife | february 2014 |
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lifestyle Local game goes global
leisure | travel | books | history | essentials
Frustrated with commonly available word games, Julia created her own. Proving a local hit, the boardless board game is now going global and is set to become an idea one can truly take from the Banks, as JON RAWLINSON recently discovered. Bored with the board, long time local, Julia Banks, changed the rules of the game, inventing her own. Similar to Scrabble, but played without a board, with cards and more focused on participant interaction, Squabbles is due to be distributed overseas. The Cockle Bay resident (pictured right) says, with thousands of sets sold in New Zealand and Australia and another run due, a win is on the cards for her and Holdson games. “Simon Holdsworth [managing director for manufacturer/distributor, Holdson] says it’s doing very well. It was only at the beginning of last year that I knew for sure it was even going to be made, much less sold overseas.” Terms are agreed for distribution to the UK and Ireland and plans are in place for entry into other European, American and Canadian markets. “They’re interested, they’re all wanting it!” says Julia. And, locally, the game has also met with positive results, as illustrated
during Howick’s Midnight Madness. “I did a promotion outside Paper Plus where people came and played. By about 10.30pm the Paper Plus manager said they had run out of stock, so I brought some more sets from home. Next morning, they rang and asked for even more; it was just romping out, it was brilliant! “Now, when I pop into The Warehouse, for example, there’s Squabbles, on the shelves right next to those other well-known games, it’s always quite a thrill!” Looking to the future, the experienced teacher says more markets await, but she has no plans to develop other games at this stage. “I would be delighted if, teaching wise, it went to non-English speaking countries such as France, China and places such as Holland where English is taught in every school. While the game is designed for having fun, it’s also educational. “I’ve only just developed it so I have
no plans to invent any more just yet. I wasn’t even really planning to do this one; it just invented itself, really.” However, should the game become an international sensation, Julia says she will not be cashing in her chips and leaving Howick in her wake; well, not for long. “How could we find a nicer area to live than Cockle Bay?” When Julia approached Holdson with her new board game, Simon explained the difficulties of taking such an idea to market. However, after playing the game with her, he was sold! “We’re presented with lots of word games, but Julia’s Squabbles really stood out,” he says. “It’s very fast and one can be victorious with words
of few letters, so adults not as skilled with words and children can all be competitive. It’s suited to a much wider age range – aged 8 and over.” While Holdson has sold other locally invented games abroad in the past – principally Australia, the Pacific Islands and the Far East – Simon saw potential for success for Squabbles further afield. “I felt this game could work well because word games are a popular genre in the industry and language is essentially universal,” he says. Although Simon confirms it is too early to tell if the game will take the world by storm, it has made a great start in the Australian market and he expects Squabbles to be warmly welcomed elsewhere.
College
Open Day
Applications close for College on 10 April
Please register to attend:
www.saintkentigern.com 34 | eastlife | february 2014
BR-8019-05
E512093
Wed 5 March
Scholarships available
www.eastlife.co.nz
travel | eastlife
Mediterranean musings World Journeys director KATE GOHAR has long loved the beauty, history and excitement of the Mediterranean and her account of just some of the many attractions is sure to inspire readers to enjoy their own World Journey to these parts. The silliest of grins takes over my face the minute I set foot in Venice. No matter that I’ve been there countless times, it can even start during the water taxi ride from the airport! Picture-perfect scenes of ancient bridges, tiny balconies jutting out from centuries old palaces, battered and peeling houses jostling against each other beside the lesser canals and a lively pulse in the city all collide to make Venice so mesmerising. Just one of my favourite places in the Mediterranean, nay the world!
‘
A close runner up is the masterpiece that is Florence. The Gothic-style Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo) took 140 years to complete; its ‘Brunelleschi’ dome is an architectural miracle and even today it remains the largest brick dome ever constructed. Ponte Vecchio, spanning the Arno, is the oldest bridge in Florence dating back to the 1300’s. It has glittered with all things gold since the 16th century when the Medici family ordered the original butchers of the area to leave due to the appalling smell! It is also the only Florentine bridge saved from destruction by the Germans in 1944 – a real treasure. The charm of Barcelona is endless. The soaring spires of La Sagrada Familia pierce the skyline, the banter of the artists and ‘con artists’ on Las Ramblas endlessly amuse and the mountains of colour and fragrance in La Bouqueria Food Market always leave me salivating. Add this to the quirky delights of Park
The charm of Barcelona is endless. The soaring spires of La Sagrada Familia pierce the skyline, the banter of the artists and ‘con artists’ on Las Ramblas endlessly amuse and the mountains of colour and fragrance in La Bouqueria Food Market always leave me salivating.”
permitting spectacular views of the coastline and its sprawl of villages. Guell where Gaudi was let loose with rampant and enchanting energy, the old Gothic Quarter with its array of wonderful shops and buildings, opportunities to enjoy Catalan cuisine, sangria, the engaging spirit of the locals and you have a pretty special destination. For a real feel of ‘Old Town Europe’ I head for Dubrovnik. The staunch façade of the city wall encircles baroque buildings; a gleaming pedestrian thoroughfare bursts with churches, cafes, museums and shops.
A delightful small harbour at one end provides a tantalising peak at the glistening Adriatic with the promise of lush landscapes and crystal beaches. And what is there not to love about the Cinque Terre? These five charming villages cling to cliffsides backed by hills so steep that a coastal road was impossible. The villages are connected by train, a good option on a hot day when walking is not for the faint hearted, but my favourite way is by ferry,
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e nt to !
go
Explore the Cinque Terre and Lake Como, then cruise with Holland America Line from Venice to Dubrovnik, the Greek Isles and Rome, ending in Barcelona for a taste of Spain!
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small group hosted cruise journey, May or Sept 2014
Touring the Cinque Terre and Lake Como is followed by a 12-night Holland America Line cruise from Venice to Barcelona. Fully escorted from New Zealand, this is the kind of journey where the silliest of grins would be entirely appropriate at any point.
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The Best of the Med’
Combine all of these delights of the Med’ then add on time at Lake Como, and you have World Journeys’ small group tour aptly named “Best of the Med”, departing in May and September 2014.
26 days from $10,689pp including ights Taxes and tipping additional
Contact your Travel Agent or World Journeys Tel 360 7311 Email info@worldjourneys.co.nz Web www.worldjourneys.co.nz E513097-v5
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eastlife | travel
Discovering Turkey Calder & Lawson Tours have been organising tours to Turkey for a number of years and these have been amongst their most popular. What is it about this country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia that attracts so much interest from New Zealanders? Calder & Lawson tour manager GERALD BAILEY explains why. Were those experiences really packed into three weeks? So many memories, so many highlights and still so much to discover in Turkey. The Anzac connection is one of many drawcards. For many Kiwis, a pilgrimage to Gallipoli is an essential element of their O.E. Already, there is huge interest in attending the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings next year, 2015. A visit to Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair graveyards will live in our memories. Many held back tears, aghast at the waste of young lives in what is, today, a peaceful landscape. It was strange to see mention of New Zealand so far from home – ours was a quiet bus on the return to Istanbul. It was strange, too, for a party of New
Zealanders to visit archaeological sites thousands of years old. Many were discovered by accident, centuries or millennia after they were abandoned or simply built over. We explored theatres that once held hundreds of spectators, tiered so that everyone could enjoy an unimpeded view. The wonderful acoustics were ideal for our rendition of Po Kare Kare. A visit to the Cappadocia region is an essential element of any Turkish Discovery tour. Our two days there were packed with unforgettable experiences. For example, the unique “fairy chimneys” (ancient volcanic cones in the shape of pillars) are best seen from a hot air balloon. A 4.15am wake-up call was a shock, with drizzle and low cloud making lift-off uncertain. However, we received the
all clear and took off with dozens of other balloons – what a sight. Another treat was a performance by the famous Whirling Dervishes, in a restored caravanserai – structures erected centuries ago built to provide shelter and accommodation for men and camels. The Whirling Dervishes owe their origin to the founder of Sufism and the ceremony we saw was something of a religious ritual.
Five men, each with a tall head-dress and large flared skirt, performed an almost non-stop series of what must have been well over 100 anticlockwise twirls on a very small stage, with never a hint of a stumble! They performed in a trance-like state, seemingly oblivious of the audience. In Cappadocia, we also visited a family who lived inside one of the fairy chimneys. Their rooms (on
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It’s all about you United Travel Manukau will help you to make sure your wedding day and honeymoon are a dream come true. Imagine saying ‘I Do’ with your close family and friends by your side, celebrating your marriage in the location of your dreams. From bridal registries to overseas weddings and honeymoon packages - we’ll make it all about you! Contact us today at enquiries@manunited.co.nz.
three levels) were shaped out of the rock. Floors and walls were covered with Turkish carpets and the kitchen contained all “mod cons” with cupboards situated in convenient recesses carved into the rock. We crossed the Taurus Mountains after leaving Cappadocia, reaching the Mediterranean coast near Antalya. Cloudless days awaited and earlier cold and rain became a distant memory as we headed along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. We had to pinch ourselves as we sat on a hotel balcony in Bodrum quaffing cocktails while watching the sun set over a rich, blue Aegean. The hillsides were covered with houses, apartments and hotels all painted compulsory white. Off shore, there were islands as far as the eye can see. The coastal towns were tourist Meccas with places, such as Kusadasi, catering for cruise ships. For our party, Kusadasi was a place of contrasting experiences. A visit to the site where the Virgin Mary is reputed to have lived was followed by a fashion show of leather clothing. We also joined the thousands who throng to Ephesus daily, marvelling at restoration work being carried out yet mindful of the fact that only 18% of the site has so far been excavated. Of course, no trip to Turkey would be complete without visiting the carpet shops. Our party did their best to contribute to the Turkish economy. But it was Istanbul, where we spent the first three and the last three days of our tour, that will live longest in our memories. On the bus ride to the city from the airport, where we were greeted by magnificent tulip gardens (our Turkish guide put us right –
it’s the Turks, not the Dutch, who introduced tulips to the world) we passed hillsides peppered with Judas trees – just enchanting. It was fascinating to learn Istanbul is split between two continents. Surprisingly, the first of two suspension bridges across the Bosphorus, linking the two parts of the city, was only constructed in the 1970s. Furthermore, the city has more mosques than schools, and more imams than teachers. The famous Blue Mosque was magnificent – a huge, beautiful and tranquil structure.
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No less impressive was the Topkapi Palace, formerly the residence of successive sultans, and the Sancta Sophia, built as a church, later converted to a mosque, and now, like the Topkapi Palace, a museum. Then there was the mosque of Sultan Suleymaniye the Magnificent, the Chora Museum, built as a church in Byzantine times with wonderful frescoes and mosaics, and the Dolmabahce Palace, official residence of the last six sultans which rivalled Versailles in its opulence. With the country becoming a republic in the 1920s, we were curious about the fate of what was the Turkish equivalent of the royal family. Was there was a sultan-in-exile somewhere? But it seems the line ran out when there were no male heirs. For those who haven’t been there, give a trip to Turkey some serious consideration – it is unforgettable! Calder & Lawson Tours run a range of fully esorted small group tours. For further information, contact them on 0800 853 276 or visit www.calderandlawsontours.co.nz. 54395
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eastlife | children
Books for Childcare on your terms
09 215 8335 / 021 338 639
Stephanie@bluebells.co.nz / www.bluebells.co.nz
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Bluebells provides quality In Home Education and care in safe and nurturing environments. We offer 20 years of teaching experience to build your childs individual learning programme
It is well known that without essential literacy skills it’s impossible to progress in school and although formal instruction doesn’t usually begin until children are about five years of age, fostering a love of books can begin in babyhood. Early familiarity with books, supported by parents reading to their children, will provide those first steps which can lead to a life-long love of reading, good vocabulary and a thirst for learning. Baby’s World of Play is the fourth title in the popular Baby World series of durable, non-toxic books for infants. Perfect for infants under six months, this new book again offers bold, graphic, black and white illustrations for young eyes learning to focus.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CARE ...IN THE HOME!
Other books in this affordable series include Baby’s World, Baby’s World of Shapes and Baby’s World of Nature. • Baby’s World of Play, published by Penguin Group (NZ) RRP $12.99, is available later this month from all good bookstores.
Quality home based childcare & education for children from birth to starting their school journey A friendly network of experienced & dedicated Educators
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WIN A COPY Thanks to Penguin Group EastLife has SIX copies of Baby’s World of Play to give away to lucky readers. To enter the draw visit www. eastlife.co.nz then click on the competitions link and complete the form. One entry per person/email address; entries close February 28. 2014. Winners notified by phone or email.
baby names in 2014
Free professional development opportunities for Educators Access to stimulating & educational learning resources Administration support & contractor payroll service
This year one celebrity cub is sure to ‘bear’ the brunt of jokes with his animal-inspired name, but at least he escaped his father’s name, Rocknroll.
Personalised learning journals & individual plans for each child Local regular weekly events and outings Contact us for FURTHER INFORMATION about becoming an In Home Educator, or meeting your childcare needs!
533 3512
admin@connectionsinthehome.co.nz www.connectionsinthehome.co.nz
‘CONNECTING CHILDREN, HOMES AND OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION’
Actress Kate Winslet’s December arrival, Bear Winslet, definitely saw the year out with a bang following other crazy names such as North West and Cricket. Globally, names such as Madison,
Addison, Noah, Jacob, Aiden, Jayden and Ava topped last year’s naming charts. At home we chose the more conventional Samuel, Lucas, Jack, James, Oliver, Emily, Charlotte and Sophie. So what’s on the cards for 2014? Princes and revolutionaries such as George and Nelson could rank high, but EastLife thinks it’s highly unlikely Bears will be leading the pack!
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children | eastlife
Dolphin’s plight wisely worded ‘ Home grown authors are responsible for many acclaimed fiction and non-fiction children’s books in our schools, libraries and book stores.
about Maui’s dolphin and its cousin the Hector’s dolphin, as well as outlining what can be done to help them survive.
Maria Gill is one such author. She has written more than 30 non-fiction children’s book for educational markets and makes a point of visiting schools and libraries around the country to promote New Zealand books.
Yet again, Maria Gill has balanced fact with fiction to produce an immensely readable book which is relevant to New Zealand children as well as a wider audience.
Her latest book, The Last of Maui’s Dolphins, is an engaging story about a young dolphin, Hiriwa.
whilst also highlighting, in terms children can relate to, the plight of the critically endangered Maui’s dolphin.
The new calf is warned by the pod of Maui’s dolphins about the dangers of going near the dark shapes (fishing boats) and although Hiriwa heeds their warning, one day the bottom-set gillnet from a fishing trawler catches his friends and it is up to Hiriwa to do all he can to save them.
It is well known that commercial fishing techniques pose a great risk to the survival of the species and although the Government proposes to extend the marine mammal sanctuary along the west coast of the North Island, many people believe this is not enough.
This book, beautifully illustrated by Bruce Potter, is a winner, being both a delightful story (based on fact)
Commendably, this picture book includes a double-page spread with environmental and behavioural facts
Bruce Potter is an international, award-winning illustrator of more than 100 children’s books. His Whale Rider (illustrated edition) has been translated into many languages. Bruce, known for his realistic style and fine detail, also produced the realistic illustrations and caricatures in Maria’s book, New Zealand Hall of Fame, which was Children’s Choice at the New Zealand Post Children’s Book Awards, 2012. Maria, a qualified teacher, lives in Matakana and is available to present workshops and talks at schools.
WIN A COPY Maria Gill’s latest book, The Last of Maui’s Dolphins will be released in book stores this month. The good news is, thanks to New Holland publishers, EastLife has two copies to give away to readers. To enter the draw just visit www.eastlife. co.nz then click on the competitions link and complete the form. One entry per person/email address; entries close February 28, 2014. Winners notified by phone or email.
• The Last of Maui’s Dolphins by Maria Gill, Illustrated by Bruce Potter. Published by New Holland. RRP $19.99
Experienced Parents & Teachers
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39
eastlife | music
Key to a good piano One of the most popular instruments of choice for a beginner’s musical journey, the piano strikes a chord with many households. Piano expert Peter Parkinson from Music Planet, Botany Town Centre, highlights some important notes to consider when buying one. The basic design and mechanics of the piano has remained largely unchanged for more than a century. Although there are more digital and electronic versions today, there is still nothing quite like the real thing. Useful in family environments, a piano can be a friend to the children and is always there for them. It also draws out emotion, encourages human interaction and, of course, has entertainment value at dinner parties and gatherings. These days, some parents are using it as a form of distraction from electronics such as the TV and the computer. In fact, studies have shown that children who learn a musical instrument will certainly perform better academically and in other areas of life.
In purchasing a piano, people have to consider the following: • Price – A decent, new piano will cost at least $5000. The golden rule of thumb is to go as high as your budget will allow. It is false economy to choose the cheapest; the sound is often inferior and if children are learning to play music they will only get one chance and an inferior sound may cause them to lose interest. • Investment – Generally speaking, a good quality piano is a good asset – a good investment. Over time, it is not only likely to hold its value, but actually increase. This is because the final 20% of manufacturing can only be done by human labour. The final tuning, toning and voicing cannot be done by a robot or mechanics so a good quality piano will be increasing in value all the time.
• Height – Pianos range greatly in height as it determines the length of the string which, in turn, influences the sound – the longer the string the better the sound. A good beginner’s piano should start at around 115cm. Even 6cm more in height can make quite a significant difference – creating a richer and fuller-bodied
tone. In a grand piano, the strings can be even longer, up to 7 feet long, thus improving the sound. • Colour and fashion – Choose a colour that will match the decor or consider a versatile colour if you move house or revamp the furniture regularly. Most people choose ebony
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music | eastlife
• Guarantee – When buying from a reputable dealer, new pianos are often supplied with a warranty in writing for a period of 10-12 years. • Tuning – A piano should be tuned at least once a year. A new piano should be tuned at least twice in the first year as its strings will expand and stretch.
because it goes with everything. Grand pianos or baby grands often feature as statement pieces for the home – they never go out of fashion.
• Placement – Back in the day, pianos had to be placed against an interior wall, but these days, homes have better insulation and it may not be such a concern. More importantly, pianos have to avoid sunlight as it can cause them to go out of tune.
• Country of origin – The best pianos are made in Japan or Germany. The Kohler & Campbell brand, for example, features German
• Accessories – Some pianos come with adjustable piano benches, particularly useful for children or for optimum comfort. Other benches
have storage which can be useful for keeping music and other things. The addition of soft close piano lids in recent years has been very handy. • Age – Most pianos have a life expectancy of between 20-40 years. • Buying used pianos – The age or condition of a piano can be hard to detect, especially when its owner may not have been the first. They end up guessing at its true value which can be far off the mark. What’s more, sometimes the piano may be damaged in such a way that it simply cannot be tuned. So, always engage the services of a professional to inspect a piano before buying one. Finally, it’s a matter of personal taste. Is the sound of a piano pleasing to both the player and purchaser? It will be a sound that both parties will have to live with for many years. Those who learn to play will find each step rewarding and the numerous therapeutic values and enjoyment a piano offers is far above any price tag.
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engineering assembled in South Korea. Schimmel, on the other hand, is handmade in Germany and the sound it produces is simply amazing – crisp as a bell and deep as the ocean. It’s sheer perfection.
A store within a store
Welcome to Music Planet BOTANY (our 10th store) located inside the Danske Mobler building at Botany Town Centre.
present a representative range of pianos in order that all families can experience the joy and satisfaction of making music.
A dedicated piano, electronic piano, and keyboard store we are committed to providing the finest quality pianos from around the world, presented in a peaceful environment where quality products complement each other, providing the perfect setting to explore, listen, experience, and imagine the sound and visual impact of the piano of your choice in the home environment.
Accurate, honest, qualified information and advice is happily and courteously given by our on-site veteran of the N.Z. piano industry PETER PARKINSON.
Since 1980 Music Planet has helped thousands of families select the perfect piano, enabling children and families to learn and develop musical knowledge and skills which last a lifetime. A carefully selected range of products from international piano companies which have earned the reputation for producing quality instruments available to families at affordable prices, we strive to
A qualified teacher with a lifetime of involvement and success in professional entertainment, church music, classical studies, Peter’s experience and knowledge is freely available to all who wish to make an informed and knowledgeable decision when purchasing a piano. As passionate about pianos as ever, Peter is worth talking to when you are choosing which piano might be best for you and your family. Choosing a piano that is ‘right’ for you is a big decision requiring advice, information and often a significant amount of money. Your children’s musical education
www.musicplanet.co.nz GRAND PIANOS – Always a fine selection of KOHLER & CAMPBELL grand pianos. UPRIGHT PIANOS – KOHLER & CAMPBELL, WEBER, SCHIMMEL, YAMAHA, KAWAI, quality and performance guaranteed, 12 year comprehensive warranty on all new pianos.
ELECTRONIC PIANOS & KEYBOARDS – KORG, KURZWEIL, the world’s best, all here for you to play, compare, enjoy. ORGANS – The amazing ALLEN TH 300 Theatre Organ (the only one in NZ, and it’s here!). Call in and let Peter show you round this truly magnificent instrument.
will last a long time - it is important that you make the choice which will help them to learn, grow and enjoy the music on the piano you choose.
good old fashioned service with a smile, a genuine willingness to help, and a sincere desire to turn every customer into a ‘happy’ customer.
A casual friendly welcome is given to all - no pressure, no gimmicks, no ‘slick’ sales tactics.
When it comes to pianos, electronic pianos, keyboards, come to Music Planet BOTANY.
MUSIC PLANET BOTANY – Best advice, best product, best service, best prices!
(inside Danske Mobler building), Botany Town Centre, 501 Ti Rakau Drive, BOTANY. Phone: 265 0230. Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10.00am - 5.30pm. Saturday and Sunday 10.00am - 5.00pm. Closed Monday. E510230
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eastlife | essentials
Essentials Personal and household essentials are many and varied and no two are a fit for every home. Some are determined by practicality, some by need and some by pure desire. Essentials may be about making the workload easier, providing for health and wellbeing or simply ensuring the total look be it fashion-wise or décor directed. Take a look at this month’s EastLife Essentials.
ADDING TO THE MIX For the Valentine foodie, the Electrolux Turbo Pro Multi is an amazing wee gem, a welcome gift for the foodie in your life. It includes a mini chopper, double whisk, one litre mixing jug, chopper (to crush ice) and SO much more for the perfect blend! Electrolux Turbo Pro Multi – RRP $299.95
SURPRISE YOUR LOVED ONE ON VALENTINE’S DAY! The Oriental exoticism and romance that is Shanghai, is perfectly captured in this opulent, natural soy wax candle. Housed in a decorative art deco-inspired, red glass jar, this alluring fragrance combines dark wood and musk, with just a hint of vanilla These gorgeous notes are wrapped with a fresh composition of bergamot and lemon and encased in a rich, floral heart of jasmine, ylang ylang and rosewood – not only perfect for Valentine’s Day but ideal when celebrating Chinese New Year. ECOYA is available from department stores and boutiques nationally. Decadence by ECOYA Candle – Zhou – RRP $59.95
FOCUS ON BEST TIMES Capture every loving moment this Valentine’s Day with this compact, lightweight and high quality camera from Fujifilm. It is in line with Fujifilm’s strong X design and, for the first time, Fujifilm has introduced a more varied range of colours to the mix. Available in red, blue and black. Fujifilm X-A1 camera – RRP $999.99
PORTRAIT OF A GENIUS CAPTIVATE YOUR MAN Put him under your spell with this amazing new fragrance from Benefit Cosmetics. Noelle is an exotic and glamorous, woody, floral scent that will bewitch any man. Under My Spell Noelle Edition Eau De Toilette Spray from Benefit Cosmetics – RRP $68
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Jony Ive’s collaboration with Steve Jobs would produce some of the world’s most iconic products, including the iMac, iPod, iPad and iPhone. From Jony’s early interest in industrial design through to his education at Newcastle Polytechnic and meteoric rise at Apple, this book offers a detailed portrait of a creative genius, based on interviews with his former colleagues and extensive research. Jony Ive: The Genius Behind Apple’s Greatest Products by Leander Kahney – RRP $37 (Paperback) www.eastlife.co.nz
essentials | eastlife RINGS ON MY FINGERS Nothing says ‘I love you’ more than a piece of beautiful jewellery. So why not treat your sweetheart to one, if not more, of these gorgeous sterling silver rings from Pandora. Pandora sterling silver rings with stone – RRP $65 each
A ‘DARLING’ NEW RANGE AT WALKER AND HALL
FLESH AND BLOOD MUSIC The John Butler Trio’s latest album, Flesh and Blood, is described as being much more direct than previous studio albums and more akin to the several live albums released by the trio, including their remarkable set at Red Rocks, Colorado in 2011. The new album captures the John Butler Trio working up old strengths and finding new ones even at a time of change. John Butler Trio’s latest album ‘Flesh and Blood’. Release date February 7 – RRP $20
LAUGHTER AND LOVING This Valentine’s Day, be inspired to celebrate love, to say it loud and write it bright with kikki.K’s gorgeous Live, Laugh, Love quote book. It’s filled with unique illustrations and quotes about love and life. Live, Laugh, Love quote book from kikki.K – RRP $29.90
‘
Jewellery is everyday magic. We tell stories with our hands, our wrists, our necks, and with the things we choose to bedeck and bedazzle ourselves. Moxie, Gala Darling’s first collection for New Zealand Mint, is about how we can harness the power of language to help us construct reality. A selection of enchanting words – Darling, Imagine Magical, Babe, and Dreamer – are inscribed on each piece. Gala Darling’s first collection, ‘Moxie’, is available from Walker and Hall Botany 09-271 0390 and Manukau 09 262 3433
Romance? What is romance? Is it when I give you flowers? When I give you a gorgeous dinner? Or is it when I simply say, I love you.” - Anonymous
WAR TIME REVISITED The complete story of New Zealand’s involvement during the First World War is brought to life in dramatic detail in Damien Fenton’s book, New Zealand and the First World War: 1914-1919. The book features over 500 images, many previously unpublished, and includes a host of memorabilia all dynamically illustrating 50 key episodes of our wartime life. New Zealand and the First World War: 1914-1919 by Damien Fenton – RRP $75 (Hardback)
UPLIFTING AROMATHERAPY FRAGRANCES Made with the essential blend of rose, patchouli and ylang ylang, these two divine products from The Aromatherapy Company, will infuse your environment with warmth, love and sensuality. Rose works to boost confidence and positivity, while patchouli, with its earthy, sweet aroma, uplifts your mood. The sensual and euphoric aromas of ylang ylang are there to induce feelings of joy and hope. The Aromatherapy Therapy Diffusion Set (250ml) in rose, patchouli & ylang ylang – RRP $39.99. The Aromatherapy Company Candle in rose, patchouli & ylang ylang – RRP $29.99 www.eastlife.co.nz
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eastlife | history
Name honours humane militarian Local resident and history buff CHRISTINE MILES gives the low down on the history behind some of our thoroughfares. General George Augustus Elliot (1717-1790) was a man of order, skill, and compassion. Described as a true militarian, he is remembered for his study of warfare including an understanding of weaponry and strategy, as well as lifestyle and attitude training. Not for Elliot a life of military experiments and loose living – he trained his men so successfully that other regiments adopted his methods; he was vegetarian; he was teetotal, and he never slept more than four hours at a time. The general wanted his men as abstemious, hardy, and vigilant as himself, and this they achieved without feeling it to be hardship. Nor was he cruel. His acts of humanity softened the horrors of war. Abstinence, discipline, and preparation for the hardships of siege resulted in a successful defence of Gibraltar for which he was thanked by Parliament and honoured by King George 111 with a peerage – he was formally installed as a Knight of the Bath in 1788. The previous year he was created Lord Heathfield, Baron Heathfield of Gibraltar.
Garden
Just two years later Elliot was dead. He died (while returning to Gibraltar where he was governor) in the Aachen area of Germany of what is believed to be a stroke.
elliot street In its early days, Howick’s Elliot Street had its own disciplined and humanitarian resident. Just as General George Elliot defended the ground for his people, so was James White determined to better the lot of the Fencibles. According to great-great-grandson, Doug White, James was a communityminded man. He spoke out strongly for the Fencibles in letters to dignitaries as well as in public letters to the editors of The New Zealander and Southern Cross newspapers. “He was largely responsible for a successful petition to the Government that the Fencibles receive the
NZ’s BEST Gardening Website
promised single unit houses instead of the miserable and crowded ‘siamese’ cottages that they then lived in,” Doug says. James White’s correspondence was that of a well-educated man using excellent and well-constructed English of ‘a gentlemanly nature’. However, there was more to his life than petitioning and letter-writing. James owned some of the first cows in Howick and hired out a horse and cart; he was at the leading edge of village development. He also served for almost 17 years as Clerk of the Court, and was the
first postmaster in Howick, as well as operating a general store and holding several community positions. Interestingly, in 1851 Howick was seen as a struggling village, The New Zealand Journal (vol 10) reporting it to be a “perfect failure” with the recommendation that it “ought to be abandoned as soon as possible”. The report referred to the villagers as “victims”, but it it would seem that James White could be seen in a similar light to General George Elliot: a man of order, skill, and compassion who did much to ensure the continuance and success of Howick.
MONTEREY ART GALLERY • Regular exhibitions • In-home consultancy Runner up Best Retail Business, Howick 2013
Garden
The ultimate online resource for the gardening community garden-nz.co.nz offers information and advice on home gardens, fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, trees and shrubs. It also includes great giveaways, competitions and a comprehensive directory of products, services and more.
WWW.GARDEN-NZ.CO.NZ 44 | eastlife | february 2014
Shirley Cresswell
A Day at the Beach February 21March 14 Preview Opening
6pm, Thursday, 20 February 5 Cook St, Howick. T: 532 9022. E: info@montereyartgallery.co.nz
www.montereyartgallery.co.nz E510225
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HEALTH BEAUTY
& fashion
trends | style | beauty | health | fitness
No fail sale
– making most of SALE time Christmas is done and dusted and the fashion world’s summer season is drawing to a close but we know what that means.... it’s end of season SALE time! So, how do you make the most of sale period and remain level headed amongst a sea of ‘percentage off’ signage and not to be missed specials?
simple; do you love or like it? If you love it, great, but if you only like it – why don’t you love it? Be rational, and stop hoarding clothes for those ‘just in case’ moments.
Well here are a few simple tips.
Price
The three W’s
Markdowns and price reductions can be a cruel mistress. In a short space of time, want takes over need and you start to make emotional purchasing decisions. This is not where you want to be.
You may have always dreamed of owning a turquoise blue kaftan, but just because you stumble across one with 50% off the retail price doesn’t mean you have to have it. Before buying anything ask yourself the three W’s. • What will I wear this with? Don’t forget to factor in footwear and accessories – if you don’t have the right shoes you can’t create the outfit. • When will I wear this? If you can’t think of at least one occasion on your upcoming calendar for which this item would be perfect then put it back. If you have an event coming up, shop as close to the day as possible. Not only will you have less time to change your mind, but you’ll also be more up to date with trends and styling. • Why would I wear this? That’s
When facing the emotional blackmail created by price consider... would you have purchased this item at full price, yes or no? If your answer is no, then you need to consider if the amount you are saving is enough to overlook any of the things which prevented you from paying the original price. Remember, if you weren’t 100% sold on the print or if you didn’t like the sleeves, reducing the price isn’t going to change that!
Size matters Knowing your size is one of the most important things about sale
shopping and, remember, that even though the price has shrunk, you have not! By the same token, unless you’re a whizz on the sewing machine don’t buy clothes that are too big with the intention of having them ‘nipped in’ at your local alteration shop. There is about a 5% chance that the item will actually make it there and when it does, you’ll be so horrified with the price you’ll wish you had saved your money and bought the new season version which fits.
It may seem that we have taken the no-nonsense approach but by asking yourself a few simple questions you’ll not only build a practical and functional wardrobe that you’ll use every day, you will have made the most of those end of season sales. Lastly, it’s better to buy two items you absolutely love even if they are full price, than five items just because they are on sale. Remember, at the end of the day it’s not about how much you pay for something, it’s how often you wear it!
NEW ZEALAND FASHION ONLINE
WWW.FASHIONZ.CO.NZ
NEW ZEALAND FASHION ONLINE
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eastlife | fashion
OBI • PAULA RYAN • DAVID POND • SILLS REDHEAD • LOOBIE’S STORY • LOUCHE
Summer Daze Sale
Style radar
Repertoire’s Style Director, Meghan Maher, answers questions about fashion and style from EastLife readers.
30-50% OFF Designer Clothing
Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm
114 Main Highway, Ellerslie.
Ph 579 3535 E510144-v4
Q: It is important to me to look
skin tone. I find revealing too much skin particularly legs and cleavage, becomes more difficult as we age.
A:
Be selective with the colours you choose for your wardrobe. A well chosen colour can take 10 years off your age, whereas another can totally wash you out.
great but age appropriate. Do you have any tips to give me confidence to achieve this? There is a lot of information surfacing on how women of today are ageing so much better than ever. Our clothing and how we wear it can have a big impact on how we feel about ourselves and people’s perception of us.
COLLECTION
I have many clients and have read a lot about how women can feel lost and invisible when trying to dress ‘their age’ according to society’s stereotypes and norms.
IN STORE NOW
My recommendation is to find styles that flatter your body shape and emphasise your positive attributes. Be careful with how much skin you reveal; this is, of course, totally dependent on your
I strongly recommend being fitted with good underwear and great bodyfitted basics. This will give a strong foundation for your new look and you will find your clothes fit so much better – it’s an instant confidence booster. If feeling a little lost with how to dress for your body shape, I strongly recommend seeing a fashion stylist who can steer you in the right direction with some personal advice and guidance to achieve this new look.
Champagne & Shoes... Kiwi footwear designer Kathryn Wilson has created a limited edition heel named The Ponsardin in honour of Madame Clicquot Ponsardin, ‘The Grand Dame of Champagne’. The Ponsardin has been designed for one of the most celebrated fashion events of the year, the 2014 BMW Polo Open at Clevedon. E510058-v3
The majority of your child’s learning is through vision
With a stunning application of gemstones decorating the heel’s
leather upper, this glittering shoe is inspired by Veuve Clicquot’s shimmering bubbles and will no doubt be the must-have accessory at the glamorous event to be held from February 21-23. Veuve Clicquot will have a team competing at the polo. Available in nude, black and cobalt blue, The Ponsardin will be available for purchase at kathrynwilson.com and Kathryn Wilson stores from February 2014 for $329.
25% OFF
ALL CHILDREN’S FRAMES Until end of Feb – Includes students with valid ID
We carry one of New Zealand’s largest selections of frames If you hold a community services card talk to us about the Spectacle Subsidy
94 Picton St, Howick. Ph 534 8716. www.howickoptometrists.co.nz E510229
46 | eastlife | february 2014
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fashion | eastlife
Tickled ink P
This February we are Tickled Pink! Why? Well we’ve just found our new favourite colour. It’s bold and fun and sure to stand out in the crowd. So whether you want to be daring in top-to-toe hot pink or wish to brighten up your look with a splash of colour – push the boundaries, think pink!
➌
➍
➊ ➋
www.eastlife.co.nz
1. Carlson – Studio 54 Dress RRP $699 2. MAX – Colourblock Shift Dress RRP $139 3. Saben – BabyLaken RRP $205 4. Le Specs – Cheshire frames RRP $69.95 5. Andrea Moore – Jumpsuit RRP $450
➎
eastlife | february 2014 |
47 E510239
Julie Martin
eastlife | beauty
M.A.B/Th (NZ), I.T.E.C (Eng), Confederation (Eng)
• Remedial Skin Therapist • Electrologist • Thermologist
Residents in Pakuranga and Howick are now very fortunate to have the services of an experienced beauty therapist, electrologist/thermologist on their very door step. With 20 years of New Zealand and International experience, registered beauty therapist, electrologist/ thermologist, Julie Martin specialises in the embarrassing issues of unwanted hair.
By Emma Smith
there is no excuse for not to cleansing the face, morning and night.
When it comes to skincare and skincare products, magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide are overflowing with articles targeting the female audience.
Julie says a lot of her clients come to her quite confused and disappointed when unwanted hair growth and skin issues such as acne, congested skin, premature ageing, rosacea, eczema, pigmentation damage aren’t resolved. Julie is a specialist in electrolysis and thermolysis, an electrical treatment proven over 80 years to remove unwanted hair growth by dissolving the hair follicle using heat and a naturally produced chemical action. Electrolysis is found to be more comfortable and more permanent than laser treatments and Julie is able to adjust the intensity to suit her clients’ needs. She is able to treat any area of the body and most commonly treats her clients’ face, chest, underarms and bikini lines. Julie also has a practice in Westmere where her clients have complimented her on her communications so they understand what is happening and receiving highly professional confidential treatments .
Sadly, they tend to forget about the other half of our society – men! I don’t claim to be an expert on the topic of skincare for men, so I’ve enlisted help from a few of my closest male friends and asked them to share with you, some of the products they love and can’t live without. They came back with the low-down on cleansers. Now, Kiwi blokes generally spend a lot of time outside braving the elements, whether it’s summer or winter. But, during the hot summer months, when men sweat more than usual, oil and dead skin cells become trapped under the surface of the skin leading to skin irritations such as black heads and white heads. Yes, that’s right, unsightly and often painful pimples.It’s very important to keep skin clean and I, for one, believe
Julie offers all her new clients a complimentary and confidential electrolysis and skin consultation during which their issues can be discussed in depth and a tailormade treatment plan formulated to suit their needs. She recognises her clients lead busy lives and offers evening and weekend appointments. For an appointment, please phone 09 5278159 or 021 02294638.
For smooth operators That goes for men, too, which is why this month’s beauty page is all about cleansers. • Nivea for Men Deep Cleansing Face Wash is a refreshing, soap-free, foaming gel containing provitamin B5 and vitamin PP that leaves skin cleansed, refreshed and comfortable. RRP $9.99 (100mL) • Thalgo Men Cleansing Gel is a non-aggressive facial cleanser that purifies the skin and removes excess oil. The skins natural protective film is preserved. RRP $59.90 (150mL) • Triumph & Disaster Ritual Cleanser is formulated to work without drying or irritation for the most sensitive of skins. Healing tamanu and peppermint oils gently exfoliate and cleanse. RRP $33 (150mL) • Clarins Men Active Face Wash Foaming Gel is a refreshing foam cleanser. It is recommended for all skin types. RRP $39
Valentine’s Special Special ends February 28, 2014
E512126
3 Dayspring Way, Pakuranga Phone: 527 8159, Mobile 021 0229 4638 Email: julie@juliemartin.co.nz Clinic Hours: 10am-9pm Monday to Friday
www.juliemartin.co.nz
For Her & Him
Cocoon Heavenly Body 120 Mins
$159 ($300 for couple)
30 mins Body Scrub 60 mins Aromatherapy Massage 30 mins Facial
Anti Aging Ginger Facial Peel Off Masks 60 Mins $85
– Anti-Aging – Oxygenates – Antioxidant – Prevents cutaneous aging – Helps cellular renewal – Improves skin elasticity – Anti-inflammatory – Refreshes skin
2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 180 Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga. Ph: 577 2998. 2/166 Chapel Rd, Botany South. Ph: 274 9489.
www.thaispa.co.nz
E122204-V7
48 | eastlife | february 2014
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health & beauty | eastlife
How much toxic material are you carrying in your body?
CLIVE PLUCKNETT, Naturopath, P.G.Dip. Anti Aging Medicine, P.G.Dip. Cancer Nutrition, P.G.Dip. Mental Health Nutrition, MBA, BA, P.G.Dip Science
Would you carry around a cocktail of chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, bad bugs, putrefying material and encrusted undigested food in your pocket. Probably not, yet this is exactly what we do with our bodies.
E510013-v7
I recently had a client who lost three kilos during a detoxification programme, three kilos of toxic waste from her bloated belly. Nearly all of us are carry around varying degrees of toxic waste in different parts of our bodies and it comes at a cost to our health. It leads to many insidious diseases. The body was never meant to process much of what we put in/on our mouths, skin, hair. Normally it would be peed or pooed out, but with toxic overload, the body struggles to deal with the onslaught of chemicals, radiation, fumes, herbicides, pesticides, additives, preservatives, solvents, protectants, alcohol, cigarette smoke, drugs, junk food and more. It does the very best that it can, but often it is just so overwhelmed that it stores toxins in fat, bone and tissue, just to get rid of them. As a result we are walking depositories of some pretty yucky stuff. Some of the effects of a toxic body include an inability to lose weight, chronic fatigue, hormone disruption, depression, recurrent headaches, muscle ache and weakness, recurrent infections, infertility, menstrual disorders, allergies, digestive disorders, skin disorders and more.
The good news is that our bodies can detoxify, if given the right things in the right order, based on individual need. At the same time, specific functions need to be supported. It is not about moving toxins around the body or turning them into a more dangerous form. It is about systematically removing them from key areas, nullifying them and getting them out of the body. This protocol is at the basis of many alternative cancer and disease therapies. Our website explains this in more detail. We spring clean our houses, we refresh our wardrobes, we replant our gardens, but we forget our bodies. At Be Well, we conduct a variety of tests to gauge your toxicity. We design a plan to detoxify your specific toxins and support your body to detoxify into the future.
Be Well Clinic – Unleash Your Wellness Potential 730 Whitford Road, Whitford Village Ph 530 8143, 021 490 801 bewell@clear.net.nz www.bewell.net.nz www.eastlife.co.nz
LOOK YOUR BEST – THIS YEAR’S ABOUT YOU! Free consultation available
Elsewhere pay up to $600
From
$100 per area
■ Evens out skin tone ■ Repairs sun damage ■ Removes freckles ■ Treats rosy checks and broken veins ■ No more sun spots About Skin is now affliated with Dr Greg Taylor, one of NZ’s top plastic surgeons
E122202-v7
5 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga, East Auckland. Ph 576 1550. info@aboutskin.co.nz • www.aboutskin.co.nz eastlife | february 2014 |
49
Have your dentures crafted by an award-winning Clinical Dental Technician with over 25 years experience.
www.beautybible.co.nz
Using the highest quality materials from Europe and the latest techniques to ensure you have the smile you deserve... Full dentures Partial dentures Denture cleaning Mobile service (Ak) Denture repairs/relines Implant retained dentures Mouthguards
Make an appointment Leah Taylor RCDT, PGDipCDenTech (Otago) to come and see us: 2 Edgewater Drive Pakuranga Auckland 2010 t: 09 576 6987 e: info@pdpdenturestudio.co.nz www.pdpdenturestudio.co.nz
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E512016
• • • • • • •
MARINA PLASTIC SURGERY “High quality surgery” Martin Rees Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive & Hand Surgeon
“SURGERY BY THE SEA” ■ 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
■ Mole Checks
Marina Specialists First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina Ph 534 4040 • Fax 537 0147 www.plassurg.co.nz • EDI: marinasp E512000
50 | eastlife | february 2014
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beauty | eastlife
THE TEAM AT PDP DENTURE STUDIO
Word of mouth... STILL YOUR BEST BET! Local business PDP Denture Studio’s services have set tongues wagging in Pakuranga and as far away as the remote island of Tokelau. The denture specialist team share some highlights. In this world of computers, technology and big-budget marketing, it’s refreshing to hear that ‘word of mouth’ is still alive and well at PDP Denture Studio Ltd. “It constantly amazes me how people hear about us!” says Leah Taylor, principal clinical dental technician at this busy Pakuranga denture clinic. “We had one client that came all the way from Tokelau! He sailed for 24 hours on a boat and then flew here from Samoa to see us!” The grateful patient, a well-known Tokelauan artist, loved his new smile so much that he handcarved a traditional canoe as a gift for the clinic.
“He heard about us through word of mouth! We’ve had clients from all over New Zealand, Australia… even from as far as the US. “We care about our clients and their wellbeing, and they sense that,” says Darlene Mulder, the friendly office manager who’s there to greet clients on arrival. “It’s what makes our clinic different; it’s what makes us special… They keep coming back and they send their friends and family.” PDP Denture Studio has moved late last year to its newly fitted, customdesigned clinic at 2 Edgewater Drive, Pakuranga. From the moment you arrive, Leah and her team will set you at ease and make the process of having your dentures designed, adjusted or fitted a pleasure. “During the excitement of the America’s Cup, we even had clients come in early for their appointments to watch the races and enjoy a freshly made coffee
in our lovely waiting room,” says Darlene. “If you have dentures, then it’s time to come and experience the PDP Denture Studio difference,” says Leah, an award-winning clinical dental technician, with more than 25 years’ experience in prosthetics in Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand. “Our boutique denture clinic offers high-quality, aesthetically pleasing full and partial dentures, vitallium and valplast dentures, implant-retained dentures (in conjunction with oral
surgeons and dentists) and mouth guards. Most importantly, we offer a personalised, friendly service – and satisfaction is 100% guaranteed!” With the latest European materials and techniques, together with years of experience, Leah and her team are ready to work with you to give you the smile you deserve! Call in and experience the PDP Denture Studio difference. Phone 576 6987 for a free, no-obligation consultation or visit their website at www.pdpdenturestudio.co.nz.
2 Edgewater Drive, Pakuranga. Phone 576 6987. Email info@pdpdenturestudio.co.nz. www.pdpdenturestudio.co.nz
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eastlife | february 2014 |
51
YOURSELF YOURSELF eastlife | YOURSELF fitness
conditions conditions apply conditions apply and are and apply available are and available areatavailable www.jetts.co.nz at www.jetts.co.nz at www.jetts.co.nz or at your or at local your or atclub. local yourclub. local club. members members from members the fromsame the from same household the same household join household the joinsame thejoin same club. the same club. Membership Membership club. Membership fees may fees vary may feesbetween vary maybetween vary individual between individual club. individual club. Jetts Jetts Fitness club.Fitness Jetts terms Fitness terms and terms and and only available only available onlyto available people to people over to people the overage the over ofage 16. theof~Family age 16.of~Family 16. membership ~Family membership membership optionoption is available option is available isto available immediate to immediate to family immediate family or when family or when twoororwhen two more ortwo more or more debit debit transaction transaction debit transaction will incur will incur a will $1.50 aincur $1.50 ezidebit a $1.50 ezidebit administration ezidebit administration administration charge charge ^12charge month ^12 month ^12 membership month membership membership options options are options paid are apaid year areapaid inyear advance ainyear advance in andadvance and and *Fortnightly *Fortnightly *Fortnightly membership membership membership options options are options based are based on area based recurring on a recurring on adirect recurring direct debit direct debit from afrom debit nominated afrom nominated a bank nominated bank account account bank or credit account or credit card or and credit cardeach and cardeach direct and direct each direct
www.jetts.co.nz www.jetts.co.nz www.jetts.co.nz 08000800 JETTS 0800 JETTS 247 JETTS 247 247
Are keeping to DO DO DO ITyou ITFOR IT FOR FOR your New Year goals?
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09 09 213213 097469 213 7469 7469
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Olly Coffey is the National PT491 Manager forPakuranga Jetts Road Unit 37B, Unit 37B, 277 37B, 277 Te277 Te Irirangi Te Irirangi Irirangi Drive Drive Drive 309309 Botany 309 Botany Botany Road Road Road Unit 491 Pakuranga 491 Pakuranga Road Road Fitness New Zealand. He is a REPS-registered Skills Jetts Jetts Fitness Jetts Fitness Fitness Botany Botany Botany Junction Junction Junction Jetts Jetts Fitness Jetts Fitness Fitness Botany Botany Botany Jetts Jetts Fitness Jetts Fitness Fitness Highland Highland Highland Park Park Park Active Assessor and plays an important role in ensuring our personal trainers are fully equipped to meet the diverse needs of all Jetts members. The summer holidays are a fantastic time of year. They provide opportunities to share with friends and family and a time to slow down, take stock and set new goals. As we return to our busy lives and regular routines, we need to remind ourselves of the promises we made for the New Year that lies ahead. Time will, of course, fly past in the blink of an eye. January has come and gone already. To ensure you achieve your goals, you need to start making them a reality now.
ISISHERE ISHERE HERE TODAY TODAY TODAY TOMORROW TOMORROW TOMORROW Abraham Lincoln said, “If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend six hours sharpening my axe”. Rather than blindly rushing off towards your new goals, take the time to create a plan.
TOMORROW IS HERE TODAY
- - - Access Access Access to 50 to 50 to clubs 50 clubs clubs across across across New New Zealand New Zealand Zealand - - about - Nowhat No lock No lock in lock contracts in contracts in contracts or or cancellation cancellation or cancellation fees fees fees If you are unsure you need - - Your Free Free membership Free membership to mibodycoach.com to mibodycoach.com to mibodycoach.com to do, ask for- advice. chances ofmembership success improve when - - significantly - Free Free one Free one hour one hour PT hour PT session PT session session you have key action points entered Includes: Includes: Includes: into your diary. It is too much to hope
that you will arrive at your destination without mapping out the Goroute. Go into Go into the into the draw the draw draw to to win to win awin one a one a year one year year free free membership. free membership. membership.
Plus: Plus: Plus:
The second step is equally as joining fee fee of fee of $69.00. of $69.00. $69.00. important –joining a plan isjoining only effective when it is realistic to follow. So, - pay - pay - only pay only only $19.95 $19.95 $19.95 per per f/n per f/n membership* f/n membership* membership* and and aand once a once a once offoffoff highlight any potential stumbling blocks in your plan. This allow once once once offwill off joining off joining joining feefee of fee of $45.00 of $45.00 $45.00 each. each. each. you to call on support or to create - pay - pay - only pay only only $19.95 $19.95 $19.95 per per f/n per f/n membership* f/n membership* membership* and and aand a a alternative options that will fit into your lifestyle. advice on how to adapt your plan to on how to get there. You should also Excuses come when you are ill meet your needs is as important as aim to have some alternative routes prepared. You should aim to have a the plan itself. in case the main trunk line is blocked. contingency plan for those barriers This level of planning will ensure you that prevent you completing a task Before you begin, be sure to have a arrive safely and also allows you to before they even occur. Asking for clear destination and a mapped route enjoy the journey.
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Join Join Join with with with a friend a friend a friend
This This This month’s month’s month’s special special special deal: deal: deal:
STOP STOP STOP SAYING SAYING SAYING TOMORROW... TOMORROW... TOMORROW... START START START TODAY! TODAY! TODAY! STOP SAYING TOMORROW... START TODAY! This month’s special deal: Join with a friend - pay only $19.95 per f/n membership* and a once off joining fee of $45.00 each.
Just you - pay only $19.95 per f/n membership* and a once off joining fee of $69.00.
Plus: Go into the draw to win a one year free membership. Includes: Free one hour PT session Free membership to mibodycoach.com No lock in contracts or cancellation fees Access to 50 clubs across New Zealand
DO IT FOR YOURSELF 52 | eastlife | february 2014
Jetts Fitness Highland Park 491 Pakuranga Road 09 213 7469
Jetts Fitness Botany 309 Botany Road 09 215 9370
Jetts Fitness Howick 2/2 Fencible Drive 09 215 2450
Jetts Fitness Highbrook 60 Highbrook Drive, Highbrook Business Park 09 213 7257
0800 JETTS 247 www.jetts.co.nz
Jetts Fitness Botany Junction Unit 37B, 277 Te Irirangi Drive 09 215 7867
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*Fortnightly membership options are based on a recurring direct debit from a nominated bank account or credit card and each direct debit transaction will incur a $1.50 ezidebit administration charge ^12 month membership options are paid a year in advance and only available to people over the age of 16. ~Family membership option is available to immediate family or when two or more members from the same household join the same club. Membership fees may vary between individual club. Jetts Fitness terms and conditions apply and are available at www.jetts.co.nz or at your local club.
www.eastlife.co.nz
E510052-V4
health & fitness | eastlife
beauty | eastlife
Summer foods GINNY MCARTHUR – Outlook for Life. Ginny is not only a nutritionalist and personal trainer but also a marathon runner and regular on Newstalk ZB.
I popped into the local market after work last Saturday and stocked up on lots of summer goodies which turned out to be excellent value and so fresh too! I bought cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, beetroot, baby eggplants, a giant cos lettuce, capsicums, sweetcorn, mushrooms, apricots and berries, all for a fraction of what they would cost in a supermarket. Then I headed down to my local butcher and stocked up on some venison burgers – $6 for 4 big patties of pure lean meat (no fillers or rubbish) – chicken breasts and lean sausages. All the veggies and meat were bought with money from my change jar! Now the kids have grown I
can use it for the markets rather than for their pocket money. Sadly, I looked around me and wondered if body fat was taking New Zealand over. I watched as people walked past the veggie stalls straight to the doughnuts and hot dogs. On a positive note, on the drive home I saw more people out jogging, walking, running, biking, boot camping, playing in the park and heading towards our local outdoor pool than ever before. The summer vegetables I bought were packed with nutrients and so tasty. I love threading cherry tomatoes with bite sized pieces of
‘
This is a great time of year for socialising and you don’t need to feel guilty about it. Fill up on fresh and healthy produce and have treat foods and alcohol in moderation – you’ll definitely feel better for it”
capsicum, eggplant, mushrooms and courgettes onto skewers and grilling or barbecuing them. Summer salads and grilled
vegetables with fresh herbs are a favourite of mine as well as fresh sweetcorn cooked in its husk. Lean meats marinated and barbecued (but not burnt) are ideal for healthy summer eating too. This is a great time of year for socialising and you don’t need to feel guilty about it. Fill up on fresh and healthy produce and have treat foods and alcohol in moderation – you’ll definitely feel better for it.
Renew and recover Summer may be at its peak but people need to be in tip-top form to embrace it. If a sudden adoption of an active lifestyle, fuelled by New Year’s resolutions, has left bodies sluggish and muscles aching, then it’s time to seek professional help. The team at the Peak Pilates & Physiotherapy studio in Botany Rd studio is here to help people embark on new fitness programmes safely and to treat any injuries sustained from the recent holiday season. Whether it’s skiing or snowboarding overseas, or surfing and biking here at home, any kind of physical activity can throw even elite athletes out of action. Fortunately, the Peak Pilates team eases individuals into a tailored fitness routine taking into account fitness goals, levels and any history of injuries.
With a strong focus on strengthening the core, correcting posture, increasing flexibility, and rehabilitation, the exercises prescribed will whip clients into ship shape for summer. With more than 600 Pilates exercises involving stretching, balancing and learning proper breathing patterns, the benefits
are long-lasting and, best of all, reduces further risk of injury. Clients don’t need a referral from their doctor and subsequent treatment may be subsidised because Peak Pilates physiotherapists are ACC providers. So, shape up, recover and climb new heights at Peak Pilates today! E510214
www.peakpilates.co.nz ACC Registered (No referral needed) HOURS Mon to Fri 7am-8pm, Sat 7am-2pm BOTANY 309 Botany Rd (next to Jetts Gym). Ph: 274 6000. ST HELIERS 347 Tamaki Dr. Ph: 575 6418. ST JOHNS 69 Merton Rd (Scarbro Tennis Centre). Ph: 950 6102. www.eastlife.co.nz
eastlife | february 2014 |
53
food Pakuranga hits bull’s eye
recipes | profile | reviews | pantry | dining guide
Pakuranga has been something of a culinary desert when it comes to contemporary Western cuisine but a fresh new oasis has sprung up, quenching locals’ thirst. NATALIE BRITTAN calls in to Porterhouse Grill to test the waters. Being a meatarian, the man in my life often craves a good hunk of steak. So, when the grass rustled bearing news of a stampede to the new steakhouse in Pakuranga Plaza, we just had to join in. Although it was a mid-week night, people were flocking steadily into Porterhouse Grill, situated by the mall entrance opposite the library. Peering past a wooden foyer and through glass doors, we saw a bright, trendy and inviting space. Once inside, it was clear the owners had done well with the previous interior. From hair salon to chic saloon, there were high-backed chairs, banquette seating, and a mixture of high tables and bar leaners fitting comfortably into an open, spacious layout.
We were here for the steak, but my, what a tough decision it was. The well-endowed menu covered everything from American favourites such as Buffalo wings, popcorn prawns and clam chowder (not seafood, hooray!), right through to prime cuts of meat, burgers, ribs, pork belly, lamb shanks and schnitzel – a butcher’s playground. We pounced quickly on the Buffalo wings and crumbed mushrooms for starters but the call of the wild was more lumbering. After much hemming and hawing we settled on the lazy aged Porterhouse, and the Roquefort fillet. Sorely regretting his enormous lunch, my normally ravenous husband had to forego the 1kg option which he would normally devour easily and could have earned him a free pint on the house. Next time, he vowed.
Light creams and woodgrain melted seamlessly with dark chocolate trimmings, complemented by a heavy timber door linking the mall (which was then closed) to the establishment.
Initially torn between the mushroom cheddar melt, and the scallop and sirloin, I just couldn’t hold the ‘fort’ when thoughts of blue cheese laid siege.
They practise service with a smile here, and how lovely it was to be greeted by cheerful and enthusiastic waitresses.
Orders locked in, our eyes roved over other tables, catching a golden loaf of bread dripping with cheese and fluffy-looking, thick-cut chips.
By the time our wings and mushrooms arrived we were salivating. My wing man dived into the chicken nibbles dripping with a tangy, fiery sauce. He declared them “second best” in New Zealand – second only to his own! Coming from a self-made Buffalo wing craftsman, this was high praise. The crumbed mushrooms, too, delivered. Juicy little balls of flavour exploded in my mouth, oozing garlic cream cheese and mushroomy perfection. And the dipping sauces went hand in hand. That was just the start. My bovine friend arrived with its well-chosen mates – slightly melted blue cheese, fig jam, crispy fried bacon and rustic onion rings. The flavours, textures, and degree of cooking were
composed beautifully; not a note was out of place. My better food snob wholeheartedly agreed; his plainer, though no less flavourful, 500g sirloin was dressed simply in a black peppercorn sauce and accompanied by garlic mash. Stuffed, we shared a dessert – death by chocolate. Light and not too rich, it was just right after such a heavy meal. This bull has well and truly kicked the local dining scene into action and is so unbelievably good I want to shout it out from the rooftops of Pakuranga all the way to Stockade Hill until the cows come home. We’ll be back, and, next time, we will be charging forward with a whole herd.
Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
10 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga Plaza
Fully Licensed
Ph 576 3030 www.porterhousegrill.co.nz E512120
54 | eastlife | february 2014
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entrepreneurs | eastlife
Santé – to health and long life! There’s no better place for a spot of cheer than the Prenzel Tasting Room in Whitford Village where a spirited family partnership has come full circle. HELEN PERRY talks with the two ‘schnappy’ entrepreneurs who have made Prenzel a ‘must’ in the kitchen. Coming up 10 years ago, the mother and daughter team of Mavis Griffiths and Sarah Dodson made a bold move and opened a Prenzel Tasting Shop in the heart of tiny Whitford Village. With hard work and creativity, the pair soon attracted customers not just from the surrounding district but from much further afield. The fledgling business thrived. “Many saw the short drive from Howick as a country outing and a visit to Prenzel, a revelation,” Mavis says. “They soon discovered a wealth of quality spirits, liqueurs and schnapps as well as culinary condiments. And, with Prenzel’s philosophy of backing its range with recipes, advice, gift wrapping, a corporate service and more, the shop took off.” For the next four years the business
ticked along, a popular destination with group tours, local residents and companies seeking novel ideas to thank their clients. So passionate were Sarah and Mavis about the variety and versatility of the Prenzel range that in 2008 they opened a second shop in Botany Town Centre and for the next couple of years worked both locations. Award followed award. In 2007 the Whitford shop won the food and beverage category of Top Shop and in the same year it was awarded the Excellence in Tourism Award at the Westpac Manukau Business Excellence Awards. Then in 2010 the Botany shop took out Top Shop’s food and beverage category and was also named the overall competition winner. But did it
dine | eastlife
stop there? No, in 2012 the Whitford tasting room again topped the food and beverage category of Top Shop. “However, recently we decided to consolidate and it seemed appropriate to give up Botany when our lease expired then put all our efforts into Whitford which has remained our first love.” So four weeks ago Sarah and Mavis farewelled the big mall environment and headed ‘home’. “Because we no longer have to stretch ourselves between two locations, we can concentrate on making the tasting room at Whitford the number one destination for people who appreciate Prenzel’s product range and also want exceptional service,” Sarah says. “We send out a monthly newsletter packed with recipes and interesting snippets and we welcome enquiries about the best way to use products. We love sharing ideas and are more than happy to put together gifts to suit a theme or special interest.”
sarah and mavis And for those who have never seen what these girls can do, then it’s time to find out. They have a knack for creating the exceptional. What’s more for a taste of what Prenzel of Whitford can come up with Mavis and Sarah have supplied EastLife with two delicious recipes using Prenzel products (see page 57) and we have a Prenzel prize pack up for grabs on our competitions page (see page 22). Better still take a drive to Whitford and see what a top Prenzel tasting room is all about.
Established 2004 and still going strong! ✶ A fun shopping experience ✶ Bring your friends and visitors ✶ Gifts for all occasions ✶ Tastings and treats ✶ NZ made and natural www.theprenzelshop.co.nz Open 7 days 10am-5pm 7 Whitford Wharf Road, Whitford Village E510188-v2
A stylish restaurant and bar, with great atmosphere featuring delicious Thai cuisine.
to sell
Book now for Valentine’s Day Dinner 7 nights from 5.30pm Easy parking nearby Private function room Fully licensed/BYOW 590 Dominion Rd, Balmoral Ph 09 638 9516 www.tusk.co.nz
WIN WIth
www.eastlife.co.nz
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eastlife | dining
A little taste of Japan
Some restaurants can be a bit of a squeeze, but as EastLife’s NATALIE BRITTAN discovered recently. sometimes, it’s a case of the cosier the better.
It’s the littlest things that surprise. And Little Tokyo, a charming new addition to Highland Park Shopping Centre, has much to offer in the way of surprises. Keen to check it out, my partner and I decided to pop in on a week night. Situated on the eastern side of the complex, facing the standalone Countdown, it was a little hard to find but, once there, what a joy to behold! Housing an open-plan kitchen and no more than 10 tables, the colourful eatery was adorned with a faux cherry blossom canopy, cute Polaroid collages, paper lanterns, potted plants, and other endearing touches. A few couples and small families were already dining there, and just before a young couple left, the waiter snapped an instant photo of them and hung it on the wall. A place to capture happy memories – how delightful! On the menu were traditional Japanese favourites such as bento boxes, sushi, tempura and teppanyaki. Service was efficient and food arrived in a continuous flow (perfect for sharing!) creating a relaxed atmosphere.
We opted for the chicken katsu meal which was simple but tasty, and beautifully crispy. It was exquisitely presented too, which made a difference. Accompanied by miso soup, a bowl of rice, and a refreshing salad drizzled with ponzu dressing, this dish was a real steal at just $14.90. Next up, the teppanyaki sizzled and the meat was coated in a sticky, savoury sweet sauce – delicious. Full of flavour, the yakitori skewers made for perfect snacking material. Generously seasoned and smothered with a savoury umami sauce, it was as tasty as could be. With more to try such as sushi, sashimi, salads as well as other
yummy morsels such as takoyaki and soft shell crab, there was plenty to dream of savouring next time. Capturing the best and most vibrant flavours of Japanese cuisine, these light and fresh meals will work a treat with the summer palate. But, best of all, were the prices. We ate like kings for less than $45 – a rarity in this day and age.
Cheap, cheerful and casual, Little Tokyo is a great little neighbourhood restaurant with more than meets the eye.
Highland Park Shopping Centre
www.highlandparkshoppingcentre.co.nz
CORNER AVIEMORE DRIVE & PAKURANGA ROAD
Seal your love this Valentines with the intricate flavours of romance from one of our international restaurants or eateries LUNA TEA and RINDU MALAYSIAN KITCHEN
E510007-v6
56 | eastlife | february 2014
www.eastlife.co.nz
Chicken with Cucumber y c i p S and Cashew Salad
recipes | eastlife
dine | eastlife
Prenzel products can give that special touch to cooking. In particular, cucumber and mint combine as a stunning flavour match making this dish using Prenzel Garlic-infused Rice Bran Oil refreshingly different. Serves 4
Ingredients:
• 8 boneless chicken thighs – trimmed and cut in half • 3 tbsp fish sauce • 2 tbsp Prenzel Garlic-infused Rice Bran Oil + more to drizzle on pasta • 1 or 2 red chillies, finely chopped • 2 tsp sugar • 3 tbsp lime juice • 2 tbsp caster sugar • 200g angel hair pasta or vermicelli • 2 small cucumbers, halved and thinly sliced • a handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped • 4 spring onions, thinly sliced • 2 tbsp crushed cashews – salted or plain as you prefer
Method: To make the marinade – whisk together the fish sauce, chopped chillies, Prenzel Garlic-infused Rice Bran Oil and 2 tsp sugar in a bowl.
Put the chicken in a separate bowl and pour over half of the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20-30 mins. Be sure to toss the chicken in the marinade a couple of times. Keep the rest of the marinade to one side. To prepare/cook the chicken – heat a large frying pan over a medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken (in two batches) for about 5 minutes each side until golden and cooked through. To make the dressing – while the chicken is cooking, add the lime juice and castor sugar to the remaining marinade. Whisk well until the sugar is dissolved to make the dressing.
To prepare the salad – cook angel hair pasta until al dente (alternatively prepare the vermicelli according to the packet). Drain and toss through a good drizzle of Prenzel Garlic-infused Rice Bran Oil (to stop the pasta sticking) – allow noodles to cool. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl and add the cucumber, mint, spring onions and cashews. Add the dressing and toss well. Serve with sliced chicken on top of salad. VARIATIONS: If you enjoy the flavour of lemongrass, use the Prenzel Asianinfused Rice Bran Oil to drizzle on the pasta.
Lemon Honey & Ginger Cheesecake Quick, easy to make and super delicious, this cheesecake recipe will become a regular in your dessert line up. Featuring the delicious Ma Prenzel’s Farmhouse Lemon Honey and Ginger cordial, it simply zings. This is a great recipe to try with other flavours too. Experiment with chocolate or blackcurrant. See variations below. Serves 6 - 8
Ingredients:
• 240g digestive biscuits • 100ml Prenzel Butter-infused Rice Bran Oil • 600g cream cheese • 280 ml thickened cream • 150g icing sugar • 1/4 cup Ma Prenzels Farmhouse Lemon, Honey & Ginger
Method:
Butter and line a 23cm spring-form pan or 4-5 small spring-form pans. Process biscuits to a fine crumb and mix with Prenzel Butter-infused Rice Bran Oil. Press biscuit mix firmly on www.eastlife.co.nz
MENUS
DAY
Beat cream cheese and icing sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth. Add cream and mix until combined. Fold Ma Prenzels Farmhouse Lemon, Honey & Ginger through the filling.
Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set. Serve from the fridge – this makes it easier to cut. Drizzle a little Ma Prenzels Farmhouse Lemon, Honey & Ginger cordial over the top.
SUMMER
BOOK NOW VALENTINE’S
the base of the pan. Refrigerate for 20 minutes.
Spoon the filling onto the biscuit base, smoothing towards the centre from outside edges, ensuring no bubbles are present.
NEW
February 14 SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Use Prenzel Lemon-infused Rice Bran Oil as an alternative to Butter-infused Rice Bran Oil. Use Chocomulu/Butterscotch Cream/Cappuccino Cream or Espresso liqueur as an alternative to Ma Prenzels Lemon, Honey & Ginger.
CNR WHARF RD & HATTAWAY AVE BUCKLANDS BEACH
FULLY LICENSED OPEN 7 DAYS & 3 NIGHTS
57 533 7810
eastlife | february 2014 |
E513030-v7
Taste eastlife | pantry
Try our latest flavours of the month and experience a range of new products with a real taste difference. EastLife is always on the lookout for new products to tantalise the tastebuds of our readers.
LIVE A LITTLE LIGHTER With summer blooming and festive feasting behind us, now’s the time to live a little lighter with the new Little Harvest range of lighter, lower alcohol wines. Featuring three wines – a Gisborne Moscato, a Rosé from Hawke’s Bay and a Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, these Little Harvest wines offer aroma and flavour but they’re much gentler than the average 12 or 13 per cent wine. The Moscato has six per cent alcohol content while the Rosé and the Sauvignon Blanc each have an alcohol content of only nine per cent – perfect for those who know less is more.... refined! Available from select New World supermarkets and independent wine retailers – RRP $19.99 per bottle.
NEW CEREAL RANGE FOR KIDS Hubbards has launched a new range of kids’ cereals providing all the energy children need to enjoy an active summer. And every box is funpacked too! The insides are plastered with jokes, facts, ideas for experiments and games. But best of all this range features the yummiest flavours including: Hubbards Banana Bugs’n’Mud, Hubbards Berry Tricks Mix, Hubbards Super Pops and Hubbards Cookies & Cream Rumbles – crunchy cookies & cream-flavoured rumbles; wholegrain goodness and fibre too! On supermarket shelves now. RRP from $5.49.
PASTA COULD MAKE YOUR SLENDIER! If holiday excesses have you searching for the latest diet and swearing off pasta for good then don’t despair! A new range of pasta products made from an ancient Asian root vegetable means you can have your pasta and eat it too! Slendier’s delicious, new range of pasta is made from Asian food staple Konjac. The Slendier Konjac Spaghetti and Slendier Konjac Angel Hair Pasta are gluten-free, contain no fat, sugar, flour or eggs. They are low in carbohydrates and a good source of fibre, ideal for anyone keen to lose weight, as well as those with food intolerances, coeliac disease, or diabetes. Both products are pre-cooked for quick preparation. Slendier Konjac Spaghetti (RRP $4.99) and Slendier Konjac Angel Hair Pasta (RRP $4.99) are available from selected Countdown, Pak’n Save and New World supermarkets.
CEC’S MUESLI SMART START TO DAY Cec’s Smart Start Gluten-Free Muesli is sure to delight Kiwis with special dietary needs, particularly those with diabetes and gluten-intolerances. A light, deliciously moreish, fruit-free muesli, low in sugar, it contains sunflower, sesame and pumpkin seeds, almonds and cashews, puffed rice, rice bran oil, honey, cornflakes, vitamins, desiccated coconut and quinoa. For those who crave a little fruit, there’s Autumn Harvest Homestyle Muesli, made with oats, sunflower, sesame and pumpkin seeds, dried currants and cranberries, almonds and cashews, canola oil, honey and desiccated coconut. Cec’s Smart Start Gluten-Free Muesli, 400g (RRP $13.99), Cec’s Autumn Harvest Museli 500g (RRP $13.50). Available from specialty food stores and participating supermarkets.
DOING THE CASTLE ROCK! ENJOY SUMMER IN A BOTTLE! Nicknamed ‘nature’s medicine chest’ the elderflower is rich in antioxidants, its healing properties having been used for centuries to boost the immune system and treat numerous ailments. Made from hand-picked 100% New Zealand elderflowers, the Addmore range of sophisticated, non-alcoholic elderflower drinks includes Elderflower Cordial, Sparkling Elderflower Rose and Sparkling Ginger White Tea and Elderflower. Perfect for summer days and nights, serving suggestions are many and varied. Addmore Elderflower Cordial (375ml, $12.99), Addmore Sparkling Elderflower Rosé (750ml, $10.99), Addmore Sparkling Ginger White Tea & Elderflower (330ml, $4.49). Available from supermarkets and specialty food stores nationwide.
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Those looking for a taste of the good life are sure to favour the flavour of the Castle Rock range of vinegars, sauces, dressings, jams, relishes and chutneys. Produced by Coromandel Peninsula husband and wife duo, Andy and Shelley Corles, these products are made from fresh, local ingredients. Shelley says the secret to the success of the range has been “care, love and small batches.” Castle Rock features such innovative varieties as gin and grapefruit marmalade, chilli lime chutney and strawberry lemon vinegar. Products are available online via the Castle Rock website (castlerockcafe. co.nz) or from selected Farro Fresh outlets in Auckland. www.eastlife.co.nz
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summer dining
Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$
CASA TUA RESTAURANT
ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT
AMPHORA RESTAURANT
If you’re looking for tasty Italian fare, then look no further. Cosily tucked away in Farm Cove, you’ll find Casa Tua Restaurant & The Tapas Room. We’re open Tuesday-Sunday every evening where you can dine in our main restaurant, enjoy tapas in The Tapas Room or grab takeaways on your way home. BYO Wine is available when dining in the main restaurant. Full bar available in The Tapas Room. We’re also the perfect venue for private functions.
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.
Mediterranean/Italian restaurant in Botany Junction. Award winning chef and former NZ Beef & Lamb Ambassador. Indoor and outdoor seating. Open 7 nights for dinner, lunch Monday-Friday.
• DAILY HAPPY HOUR 5-6PM 190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove. Ph 576 3739. Open 6 nights, Tues to Sun Bar from 4pm, Restaurant 6pm-late www.casa-tua.co.nz
BYO • LICENSED
• Spend $100 and receive a $20 voucher for your next visit 7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, Howick. Ph 537 5554. Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-late
$$
LICENSED • BYO
$
• $14.50 LUNCHES – Also check out our special on Sunday-Wednesday nights Shop 20a, 123 Ormiston Rd, Botany Junction. Ph 271 6416. Open Lunch Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 5.30-late www.amphorabotany.co.nz
BYO • LICENSED
$$
E
The lephant Thai Restaurant
DUM MAST INDIAN RESTAURANT & BAR Specalising in the Muhglai-Hydrabadi-style of Indian cooking. Our idea to life is to be simple and happy. This is how we cook our food, this is how we like to serve and finally this is how we want our guests to feel before they leave us. Simply happy. • SUMMER SPECIAL – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday – mains $9.99 (excludes seafood). Dine in and takeaway. 44 Fortunes Rd, Pakuranga. Ph 576 8327. Open 7 days. Lunch Wed-Sun 11.30am-2.30pm Dinner Mon-Sun 5pm to late. Free home delivery (conditions apply) www.dummast.co.nz
BYO • LICENSED www.eastlife.co.nz
$
THE ELEPHANT THAI RESTAURANT
NA NA THAI RESTAURANT
With its blend of traditional and modern techniques The Elephant Thai Restaurant offers guests a magnificent dining experience whether enjoying an evening out or a working lunch! Its vast range of South-East Asian cuisine makes it the place to relax and enjoy foods of Thailand. All dishes available for takeaway so enjoy the renowned cuisine at home with a 15% discount!
In Thai ‘Na Na’ means variety and that’s what you’ll be offered when you dine with us! A delicious variety of traditional Thai cuisine to suit every taste at the best price. Group banquets available. Winner of the ‘People’s Choice Award’ for best restaurant.
• SPECIAL – 3-course meal (chicken, lamb or vegetarian) $23.90, (fish, prawn, squid or mixed seafood) $26.90. Valid till March 30, 2014 1 Moore St, Howick. Ph 534 0588. Lunch Tue-Sun 12-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 5.30-10.30pm www.theelephant.co.nz
BYO • LICENSED
$$
• BOOK NOW FOR VALENTINE’S DAY. Open for lunch buffet 11am-2pm and dinner from 5.30pm. Unit 4/308 Te Irirangi Dr, Botany South. Ph 274 9990. Dinner 7 nights 5.30pm-late, Lunch Fri-Sun 11.30am-2pm www.nanathai.co.nz
BYO • LICENSED
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eastlife | dine
summer dining
Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$
THE LIGHT HORSE
BeEr Table ‘n’ Kitchen
“Instagram us and you could win a $100 bar shout!”
BASALT
THE APOTHECARY
See Highbrook in a new light at The Light Horse. Stunning new bar and restaurant. Casual and relaxed atmosphere. Convenient location linked to motorway. Bar snacks, pizzas, delicious cocktails. Corporate parties and evening soirees. Book your annual function today.
Basalt has been the heartbeat of Howick for 10 years, and with its new addition of Gazebo makes the perfect place to enjoy great food this summer. With 180 degree views of Howick and beyond, this is a real locals’ bar with a lively atmosphere and creative menu.
• SUMMER SPECIALS: Saturdays – half price steak from 5pm, Sunday sessions with acoustic guitarist Jarrad Lee 1pm-3pm.
• VIEW THE DAILY SPECIALS ON WWW.BASALT.CO.NZ
The Apothecary goes Italian! A licensed eatery in the heart of Howick, The Apothecary is a lively wine bar and a daytime cafe open 7 days with evening bistro dining on Wednesday to Saturday nights. Button-back leather seats and vintage paraphernalia set the mood. Available for private functions.
THE LIGHT HORSE
60 Highbrook Dr, East Tamaki. Ph 271 5811. Open 7 days, 11am-late www.thelighthorse.co.nz
LICENSED
$
• CHECK OUT OUR NEW ITALIAN MENU!
Cnr Picton & Moore Sts, Howick. Ph 533 0081. Open Mon-Fri 11am-late, Sat 10am-late, Sun 9am-late. www.basalt.co.nz
LICENSED
27-29 Picton St, Howick. Ph 535 9661. Cafe open 7 days for breakfast and lunch, Bistro dining Wednesday-Saturday www.facebook.com/theapothecaryhowick
$$
LICENSED
$$
CELSIUS
PORTERHOUSE GRILL
buCkLaNDS ESprESSo LouNgE
Celsius is a purpose-built bar, restaurant and function facility located at Botany Junction. The perfect place for catching up with friends, Celsius offers great service and an extensive range of food. Celsius is East Tamaki’s hot spot for after-work drinks, casual lunches, or your next business meeting or event.
At Porterhouse Grill our dedicated team aim to bring you superb meals, served with a smile, in a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere. We strive to serve great steak and a variety of other mouth-watering dishes, as well as delicious desserts. We are fully licensed and offer a comprehensive selection of beverages to suit a variety of tastes. All ages and appetites welcome... Porterhouse Grill is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The award-winning cafe has launched its new Kiwi-inspired summer menu as well as an updated wine and beer list. Sample fresh food made on-site in a bright and breezy outdoor setting. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available and children are well catered for with the kids’ menu. Taste the best of fresh, local produce today!
• VIEW THEIR DAILY SPECIALS ON WWW. CELSIUSBAR.CO.NZ 125 Ormiston Rd, Botany Junction. Ph 271 4822. Open 7 days, Mon-Fri 11.30am-late, Sat-Sun 11am-late www.celsiusbar.co.nz
LICENSED
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• PERFECT VENUE FOR CORPORATE BREAKFAST OR LUNCH 10 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga Plaza. Ph 576 3030. Open Mon to Sun 9am-late www.porterhousegrill.co.nz
$$
LICENSED
$$$
• NEw DINNEr mENu – book Now Cnr wharf rd & Hattaway ave, bucklands beach. ph 533 7810. open for breakfast & lunch – 7 days, Dinner – Thursday-Saturday
LICENSED
$$ www.eastlife.co.nz
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summer dining
Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$
THE VILLAGE BAR & KITCHEN
wELLINgtoNS rEStauraNt
URBAN SOUL CAFE
The Village Bar offers you a great vibe and delicious food. Come along and soak up the atmosphere in the bar or all-weather garden bar and enjoy casual dining prepared by our experienced kitchen staff. Our authentic Italian home baked breads and sourdough pizza bases make our pizzas a very popular choice!
Wellingtons Restaurant is located within the Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre and overlooks Auckland’s picturesque Panmure Lagoon.
Summertime delight: grilled lamb salad served with Israeli couscous, hummus, seasonal greens and tangy raita dressing. Savour this stunning lunch paired with a glass of crisp chardonnay. More light and fresh options on the menu as well as a new set dinner menu, check it out on the website. Available for evening private functions for those special occasions.
• SET mENu $40 VALENTINE’S SpECIAL 3/272 Ti Rakau Dr, pakuranga. ph 274 5656. Email pakuranga@thevillagebar.co.nz mon to Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat 10am-late www.thevillagebar.co.nz
LICENSED
$-$$
Come and dance the night away in Auckland at our Saturday Dine & Dance, with resident band, Tall Order, bring the girls in for High Tea, or join us on Sunday evenings and bring the kids for a night of fun and surprises with award winning magician, Alan Watson! waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre, 58 waipuna rd, Mt wellington. Ph 526 3000. open 7 days – breakfast, lunch, dinner www.wellingtonsrestaurant.co.nz
LICENSED
$$$
• Now reopen for Friday night set menu dining. Treat your Valentine by day or night. Dinner bookings essential. 652 Great South Rd, Manukau. Ph 262 2435. Open Mon-Thurs 7am-4.30pm, Fri 7am-late, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm www.urbansoul.co.nz
LICENSED
$
gooDE brothErS
TE MARORO RESTAURANT
SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR
Goode Brothers – Goode Gourmet, Great Everyday. Relax over a delicious meal and a drink on the extensive new sunny deck, in the new bar area or in the lively restaurant. Enjoy fresh creations from the open kitchen perfect for the family or get-togethers with friends.
Experience Te Maroro Restaurant, winner 2013 ‘People’s Choice’ NZ Beef and Lamb and 2011 Culinary Fare ‘Restaurant of the Year’. Located at Jet Park Hotel, just 5mins from Auckland Airport, enjoy an excellent range of seasonal dishes reflecting a fusion of local and international cuisine. Open for dinner, lunch, and breakfast daily. Executive Chef, Nancye Pirini and team take pride in creating a superb experience for the most demanding diners.
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.
• VIEW thEIr DAILY SPECIALS oN WWW.gooDEbrothErS.Co.NZ Shop 36, town Centre Dr, botany town Centre. Ph 272 4516. open 7 days 11am-late www.goodebrothers.co.nz
• SPECIAL – Receive 25% off the total bill up to the value of $40 when quoting this advert. Jet Park Hotel, 63 Westney Rd, Mangere. Ph 275 4100. Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch, dinner, 6am-10pm. www.jetpark.co.nz
LICENSED www.eastlife.co.nz
$$
LICENSED
$$$
• VALENTINE’S DAY MEAL PACKAGES – Friday, February 14, bookings essential. • QUIZ NIGHT – last Wednesday of the month. 2 Leonard Isitt Dr, Auckland Airport. Ph 215 1220. Open 7 days 10am-late. www.szimpla.co.nz
LICENSED
$ eastlife | february 2014 |
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Step into my garden How many kinds of sweet flowers grow in an English country garden? Hunting for an answer to this little lyric could be tricky.
involved. Raising funds for Hospice also has a personal meaning, as my husband received their specialised care at home.”
However, there’s no need to fly to the upside down end of the globe to find out, thanks to Huntingwood, a classic English country garden situated in rural Whitford.
Thanks to the event now featuring the gardens of other Mercy Hospice supporters as well as those of the gay and lesbian community, Doreen expects this year will offer an even wider variety of gardens.
Doreen Follas, from Huntingwood says, when approached by organisers of the 2014 Heroic Gardens Festival, she was quick to accept the invitation to participate. “I knew about the Heroic Garden Festival and I was happy to be
“I think it is wonderful that it has evolved and now all supporters of Hospice can be involved,” she says. Looking ahead to the festival, Doreen confirms Huntingwood will provide visitors with an abundance of blooms, including a likely second flush of French lace roses.
doreen follas flowers growing in her Kiwi country garden is a discovery that is, at least for now, reserved for those who embark on this iconic garden tour.
Continued overleaf
However, the exact number of sweet
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Howick hails its heroes It can be all too easy being led down the garden path with promises of good things to come. However, when Mercy Hospice leads the way, presenting some of Auckland’s most interesting gardens, it’s a festival atmosphere that shouldn’t be missed!
owned by gay and lesbian people in the Auckland area, this year Geoffrey Marshall, one of the event’s founding organisers, says he’s pleased the gardens of other Mercy Hospice supporters will be included.
In its 18th year, the Heroic Gardens Festival is set to provide visitors with a real treat as some of the finest gardens in greater Auckland open their gates from February 22-23.
“It has always been our desire to present the highest quality of gardens we could, while introducing a good proportion of new gardens each year,” he says. “It became increasingly difficult to do this when drawing only on the gay community. The pool of new, quality gardens didn’t keep pace with our needs.
Although the tour was originally designed to showcase gardens
“Rather than see the standard of the festival drop, leading to less money ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT
‘
It has always been our desire to present the highest quality of gardens we could, while introducing a good proportion of new gardens each year.”
raised for charity, it was decided to open the event to all gardens in order to widen the pool of potential participants.” There are 21 gardens on show this year and the eastern region will be well represented by beautiful properties including: • Huntingwood, Whitford • Ayrlies, Howick • Zen Garden, Beachlands • 29 Gracechurch Drive, Flat Bush • 34 Orangewood Drive, Northpark • Foggydale Farm, Hunua Visit www.heroicgardens.org.nz for tickets or more information.
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eastlife | profile
A little bit country Forget the fictional ‘Good Life’, this is the real O’Neil! Yes, roll over Tom and Barbara; it’s Tom and Sarah who have found the green, green grass of home, as Tom explained to JON RAWLINSON.
Tom, tim and Sarah O’Neil
Escaping the rat race, Tom O’Neil – personal development specialist, author and motivational speaker – and his wife, Sarah, an author in her own ‘write’, discovered country life south of Auckland offered more time with the family, but also posed many challenges. Tom, who spent his formative years in the Howick/Pakuranga area, says trying to sound professional with goats and sheep bleating or the rooster crowing when on a business call can be problematic! “It happened once during an interview with The Economist in New York. The interviewer laughed so much. It was a real ice breaker but you have to wonder what impression that gave him of New Zealand! “And, if it’s not the animals, it’s the kids. To my shame, I once told a client my office was next to a day-care; but that’s not stretching the truth too far, I suppose!” After Tom married sweetheart Sarah, the couple soon sought greener pastures. Armed with little farming, or even gardening knowledge, Tom and Sarah upped sticks to head to the sticks – a splendid three-acre block in Aka Aka – and away from the big smoke in 2007. “At the time we were living in Mt Wellington with 20,000 cars going by our house every day. It was not fun, especially with our six-month-old developing his lungs at the time,” says the Saint Kentigern old boy. “Almost seven years on, we can see that God has blessed us; moving to the country has positively transformed our lives in every way.” While Tom is largely focused on bringing home the bacon, with the farm work Sarah’s domain, he says both have learnt a lot about establishing a healthy work-life balance when living on the land and they are both keen to help those new to the country.
64 | eastlife | february 2014
“I’d suggest that new lifestylers don’t overload themselves with cows, sheep, alpacas or crops too early; settle into the property first and get some good advice from neighbours,” says Tom. “Many people want to live the dream, but get stressed feeding cows and sheep at 6am, while still having to drive to and from the city, often with tough business days thrown in. But it doesn’t have to be that way if you take time to settle in.” Expertise gleaned from studying psychology, a background in recruitment, and a career in personal development have all helped Tom make the adjustment, however there is still much to learn. “Before moving, I drove past a lifestyle block once in the late ‘90s; that was about it! My knowledge of lifestyling could have filled a thimble. On the other hand, funny stories about electrocuting myself, rescuing goats from drains and almost being struck by lightning could now fill a library!” With Tom away on business approximately one to two days every fortnight, Sarah is left to hold down the home front without his assistance.
‘
Living in Cockle Bay was one of the highlights of my life. I’d certainly love to move back one day because it’s such a beautiful place and I miss the beaches terribly. Here, however, we do have the rural lifestyle, and to find three acres in central Howick would be a bit of a challenge these days!”
“She copes very well, bless her heart, but she’s quick to make me dig on demand when I am home, though. Sarah inspires me by what she manages to achieve, it’s amazing! Plus her book [The Good Life] is outselling mine three to one, so it’s clear she needs no motivation from me!” Tom’s philosophy, as outlined in his second book, The 1% Principle, focuses on implementing positive ‘micro changes’ every day to improve life. “Be patient and remember that good things take time,” he advises.
“Be organised; things fall apart very quickly when you don’t plan ahead. And do the little things right and the big things will look after themselves. “At the end of the day, it’s all about finding a good life balance. It’s pointless living on a beautiful lifestyle block if you are too stressed at work and never at home to enjoy it.” Despite finding themselves in an idyllic part of the country, Tom says he and Sarah regularly visit friends in East Auckland and a return to the area where he spent his childhood years could be on the cards in the future. “Living in Cockle Bay was one of the highlights of my life. I’d certainly love to move back one day because it’s such a beautiful place and I miss the beaches terribly. “Here, however, we do have the rural lifestyle, and to find three acres in central Howick would be a bit of a challenge these days!” Tom’s books – The 1% Principle and Selling Yourself to Employers – are both available at bookstores or through his website, tomoneil.com. He is also available for speaking engagements. www.eastlife.co.nz
Custom-sized KitChens at sensible PriCes
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Visit our showroom open 7 days Inside Danske Mobler, Botany Town Centre. Open 7 days. Ph 271 3131. www.jagkitchens.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz
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Acacia Cove is a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula.
Who could ask for more? For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and new gym.
Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in. If you’re aged 55 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer. A right to occupy dwelling at Acacia Cove Village is unsecured.
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66 | eastlife | february 2014
Unlock the true potential of your backyard! StudioXtra can make dreams of a home-based office, extra bedroom, beauty therapy clinic, hobby or music room come true providing you with the additional living, guest accommodation or your own private escape. The studio is under 10m2, so no building consent is required in most areas. But wait, there’s Xtra... we have 1 & 2-bedroom options available too. •s Affordable •s Quality finishing •s Saves time •s Priced from $11,980
Phone Malcolm on 027 492 8504 to talk about an affordable option for you or to arrange a viewing
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Going the ‘xtra’ mile Land may be drying up in Auckland but there are ways of discovering untapped potential even in the smallest of backyards. In fact, one locally-owned company has come up with a versatile solution that can be converted into an office, a music room, bedroom, study room, or art and crafts studio – the sky’s the limit. Owned and founded by experienced builder Malcolm Lusby, StudioXtra opens up a world of options for those with enough space for a 10m2 studio. Malcolm says the modern-day studio leaves most clients amazed with its practicality, flexibility and usability. “The units are surprisingly roomy, as people have told me. An en suite with a toilet, vanity and shower cubicle can be added making it completely self-contained. It’s ideal for guests, homestay students or elderly parents.” Studios are available in three options: (1) kitset packages, (2) built on-site to a closed-in stage, or (3) built on-site to completion. Being 10m2, the studios do not require a building consent in most areas; however, when an en suite is added a building consent would be required. A lot of people would rather go down the DIY route or enlist the help of other contractors, says Malcolm. “We’re happy to accommodate different needs and customers decide just how much they want to be involved.” Incredibly flexible and innovative, Malcolm’s team can even make www.eastlife.co.nz
changes to existing homes to create a seamless flow to the studio. StudioXtra also supplies 1 and 2-bedroom self-contained minor dwellings as kitsets, built on-site to closed-in stage, or built on-site to completion. For those who require something larger, a building consent is needed. Everything is done in accordance with council regulations and building regulations and special consideration is given when building in a sea spray zone as exterior fixings and roofing have to comply with the Building Act.
Explore a range of options from the versatile 10m2 studio right up to a 1 and 2-bedroom minor dwelling. They can be used as extra accommodation for farm workers and guests or as a hobby room or office.
With more than 40 years’ building experience under his belt, Malcolm, a Bucklands Beach local, has overseen and constructed some of Auckland’s most prestigious homes. Malcolm has a team of Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) building the studios and minor dwellings. All projects built by StudioXtra to completion are covered by a five-year guarantee. Using quality materials from selected suppliers, StudioXtra delivers a product that stands the test of time. An investment for life, these studio
and self-contained minor dwellings can be potential income earners and can add significant value to properties. So, experience flexible living and enquire today. StudioXtra offers FREE on-site consultations and really goes the extra mile for its clients.
Ph Malcolm on 027 492 8504 Email malcolm@malricgroup.co.nz www.studioxtra.co.nz eastlife | february 2014 |
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eastlife | home & garden
One for all the
lonely hearts out there! FLOATING ON A CLOUD CUSHION Perfect for the beach, bach or boat, these new Giant Cloud Cushions are designed to make the most of summer downtime. Oozing comfort and style, Giant Cloud Cushions are all the rage for relaxed lounging, inside and out – teens and their friends love them too! New Zealand-made, they are filled with soft polyester fibre, feature a carry handle and corner zip pocket, perfect for storing within easy reach everyday items such as sunglasses, iPhone and magazines. Available in a range of contemporary colours – dark taupe, dark pink, dark purple, dark navy, frosty, parma and grey – the cushions are covered with soft and luxurious marine fabrics, world-renowned for their 5-Year Fade Warranty and ability to withstand rain, hot, cold, mildew and even corrosive salt water. Giant Cloud Cushions have waterproof inner liners that protect the spongy fibre from moisture. This means covers can be removed and machine-washed. They come in two sizes: 1.3m x 1.3m (RRP $595) and 1.3m x 1.7m (RRP $725).
While Valentine’s Day may be a time when hearts are in bloom, for the lovelorn, it can easily cause them to break. There are many plants with names synonymous with love, and at EastLife, we thought we’d take a closer look at one more suited to the broken hearted – love-liesbleeding (Amaranthus caudatus). Featuring long, drooping tendrils, and available in a range of colours and sizes, love-lies-bleeding can provide quite the contrast to many other plants in the garden. Generally an annual – in most locations – it has been grown for centuries and was a particular favourite in Victorian gardens, where it became a symbol for hopeless or unrequited love – so it’s probably not the perfect selection for wedding flowers! However, the name Amaranthus caudatus actually has no connection to this plant’s common name. It comes from the Greek for ‘unfading tail,’ due to the duration and shape of its blooms. Love-lies-bleeding has also been seen as a symbol for sacrifice, in reference to Christ’s suffering for the sake of humanity.
‘
While this plant is most often grown for aesthetic reasons, similar to many other varieties of Amaranthus it is also edible, with seeds and leaves used in a variety of dishes throughout the world. “
While this plant is most often grown for aesthetic reasons, similar to many other varieties of Amaranthus it is also edible, with seeds and leaves used in a variety of dishes throughout the world. Amaranthus was even a staple grain for mezzo-American peoples, including the Aztecs and Incas. While seeds should be sown in
early spring, after the last frost, in the Auckland region they can be started earlier indoors. To plant, select a sunny, warm spot in the garden with free-draining soil and sow seeds to a depth roughly three times its diameter. Plants should have approximately 40-60cm of space in which to grow. As a final note, for those without someone special to cling to on Valentine’s Day, remember that we’ve all been there and love, much like a garden, will grow again. That said, if it doesn’t then, hey, at least you don’t have to fork out for presents!
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68 | eastlife | february 2014
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profile | eastlife
Tours now second nature Margaret Nalder has always called a spade a spade but, as HELEN PERRY discovered, her job encompasses more than just straight-talking dialogue delivered from behind the wheel of her tour van. When Bucklands Beach resident Margaret Nalder pulls into a West Auckland vineyard there’s little likelihood she’s there to stock her wine rack or taste the latest vintage. Rather, with six to 10 people in tow she will be introducing them to a ‘growing’ aspect of just one of the region’s tourist attractions. Having operated Auckland Wine and Garden Tours for 12 years, Margaret has made it her business to know where the best gardens can be seen and which vineyards offer tastings and on site sales in picturesque surrounds that can make an Auckland visitor’s day. While gardens and vineyards make up the crux of her business Margaret also ferries visitors on city sightseeing tours and occasionally heads out of town on request. “I started out years ago driving for Eastern Shuttles and had the 4am shift with morning airport run,” she explains. “Eventually, early rising was getting the better of me and then my husband was made redundant. It seemed a good time to set up our own tour company with the idea of keeping it small and friendly.” That was in 2001 and initially Margaret set out with the idea of hosting only garden tours. “I didn’t even know of any gardens let alone have a route planned,” she laughs. “But it’s amazing how
quickly you learn. Now I know most of the gardens across Auckland but I can still be surprised. Out of town clients call with requests for places I haven’t visited and I am happy to oblige.” With the Heroic Garden Festival set to bloom again this month Margaret and husband, Richard are readying their two coaches – a 7-seater and an 11-seater – for the event. “This is a favourite of mine and I have regulars who book a seat every year. They like being ferried right to the gate, and then picked up again. There’s no difficulty finding a place and no parking hassles; that’s a bonus when you’re trying to see several gardens in a day.” Margaret has always had a soft spot for the Heroic Garden Festival because as well as benefiting Mercy Hospice, she believes it shows a side of the gay community which many people are unaware of. “Gay gardeners have some of the city’s most beautiful, and different, gardens. I never tire of visiting them and because there are so many, I vary the route so regulars don’t see the same gardens every year. This year, Hospice has widened entries to include the whole community so there will be even more choice.” And if she never tires of the festival the same could be said of the many other gardens Margaret has visited repeatedly over the years.
“I can call in with a group one week then return six weeks later and the garden will have changed completely. It’s amazing how the seasons and growing cycles of plants can make such a difference. What’s more I’ve learnt such a lot about gardening from both garden owners and my clients.” While garden visits remain a favourite part of her business – “more like a lovely pastime than work” – Margaret says the wine tours are probably more popular and appeal to a very wide age group.
lunch. What’s more because they don’t have to drive, there are no worries about that extra tipple.” After more than a decade of exploring gardens, vineyards and the sights of Auckland, Margaret has no thoughts of retiring – yet. “I never know what to expect from my clients; I meet people from all walks of life with very different views on what we see. I’ve also met the most amazing garden and winery hosts who always make me welcome and go out of their way to ensure guests have a great time.
“People love the opportunity to taste before they buy and when we head west there’s also a real scenic element to the tour.
“You could say that having done the spadework, and there was plenty of that in the early days, I’m reaping the benefits when it comes to a wonderful working environment.”
“More than ever, groups of friends are getting together for a wine tour so they can stock up on wines, enjoy socialising and possibly share a
Auckland Wine & Garden Tours Phone 534 2158 margaret@auckland-tours.co.nz www.auckland-tours.co.nz
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eastlife | february 2014 |
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eastlife | comment
Christmas in Paris ‘ Nick Neben is a director of specialist renovation company Smith & Sons Howick and a time-served builder of more than 30 years experience.
It is not until you travel that you realise how special home is. While it is an exciting adventure to experience new cultures and visit wonderful sights, it is also amazing to return home, knowing you have great memories to look back on. I was fortunate this Christmas to have my summer, or should I say winter, holidays in Europe.We left a warm, sunny Auckland on the Sunday prior to Christmas destined for our first port of call, Paris. Described by many as the most romantic city in the world, it did not disappoint. The city was a-buzz with market stalls lining the ChampsElysee, sparkling lights strung across the streets from building to building and thousands of people everywhere. It was cold, but the excitement
of being in such a wonderful city dismissed any trepidations we had about winter weather marring our sightseeing. Sharing the experience with my fiancee, Diane, was better than any Christmas gift imaginable. The French people were delightful in their dress, enthusiasm for life and an acceptance of two Kiwi tourists challenged when it came to conversing in French. “Bonjour, parlez-vous Anglaise?” (Hello, do you speak English?) was just enough to let the locals know we were foreigners and they generously accommodated us. The one disappointing aspect of visiting Europe in the winter was that many of the major tourist attractions were closed for maintenance. Fortunately, in Paris, most things
It was cold, but the excitement of being in such a wonderful city dismissed any trepidations one had about winter weather.”
were open although we did miss out on visiting The Louvre. We thought Christmas Day would be quiet on the streets of this remarkable city, but we were amazed to find it was even busier than the day before. Apparently most French celebrate Christmas Eve as their family get-together and Christmas Day is for going out. For Christmas lunch we found a prominent cafe and settled in to enjoy the French specialities of Chablis wine, foie gras and escargot. Sitting at a pavement table, underneath very warm gas heaters, the afternoon just
flew by as we people-watched and enjoyed each other’s company. That evening we dined at ‘58’, the restaurant situated up the Eiffel Tower. The food was amazing but the weather put paid to enjoying views from the observation deck or doing our romantic river cruise on the Seine. The following morning we woke early and headed to the Palace at Versailles, a 30-minute bus ride from our hotel. For those visiting Paris, I heartily recommend this side trip. When one looks at the history surrounding Paris, it’s hard to imagine how it came to be the most romantic city in the world. Countless invasions, the plague, the French Revolution and two world wars are hardly romantic but these events have moulded a passion in its people which is reflected in their love for life. I know I promised readers I would start the year with a few building tips, but I am out of space and just back in the country – next month, I promise!
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Neighbours… should be there for one another Fencible Law Director, Lawyer & Entrepreneur, RICHARD GALBRAITH, with his take on current legal & business issues affecting our community. Although 2014 is only a few weeks old, our team is back and flying into another busy year. Over the years I have been incredibly heartened by how few neighbourhood disputes come through our office. I see it as fundamental to the Kiwi way of life that people try to establish great neighbourly relations. Good neighbours help give a strong feeling of community and safety making the ‘nest’ feel more secure.
If, despite best efforts, you do end up having a dispute with your neighbour, try to talk things over as early as possible as neighbourhood matters can fester and ultimately lead to another TV episode of Neighbours at War. Often a short phone call to your lawyer can help you understand the legal position which can be used as a last resort. However, it is always handy to know where you stand legally when you enter into polite
discussions with your neighbour. There are many New Zealand laws dealing with neighbourhood matters including:
• The Health Act – can be invoked in relation to unpleasant smells or accumulation of neighbouring rubbish.
• Fencing Act – which sets out procedures around the cost of building or repairing fences.
• Fencing of Swimming Pools Act – deals with the safety aspects of swimming pools.
• Property Law Act – which can be used to protect views that are being blocked by neighbouring structures or trees.
Other neighbourhood issues can arise in respect of buildings, excavations, water run-off, trees and easements (where one party has a legal right over neighbouring land).
• Dog Control Act – helping to keep dogs properly contained (something my dog stretches to the maximum!). • Resource Management Act – deals with noise and other nuisances.
Remember the best remedy is to resolve things between yourselves. If required, a lawyer can help appoint a mediator to facilitate discussions between you and your neighbour.
My life in five cartons Part I Bill Potter – the Business Maverick. Bill is a Speaker, FriendCoach*, blogger, author and... The 3Guy*. www.speakers.co.nz/billpotter.html www.btob.co.nz/the-business-maverick May 2014 – launch your Terrific Triennium 2014-2016. Proper people plan their lives in three-year cycles (they do.). This is different from the Government, which only plans until next Tuesday! I wish for you and yours, safety, wellness and abundance, the core of ‘Best Life’.
Well, get a pen, then! This is your opportunity to achieve much, from a single concept. It is simply known as, ‘unclutter’. Unclutter is defined as...‘clear of obstructions’.
Now unclutter your spaces, starting with your home, office and car.
Yes, they are all a mess. If you don’t believe this, you suffer from ‘cleanophobia’. Nasty. Once you have uncluttered your mind, home, office and car, you are almost ready for Step 03. But first, you have to take two ‘courage pills’. They are black. Well, courage is not easy, you understand.
documents and ‘stuff’, that represent much of your past life. Now it is time to bring your past... back to life. You don’t have to throw things out or give stuff away... but you can. Record key bits of info as you go through your boxes, like names, dates of experiences you may have forgotten, ‘long-lost’ items and so on. Upload this info onto Word Docs and store them on a securely located USB.
First, unclutter your mind (you still have one, yes? Great.) From a huge Get a new exercise book and pen. Part II of this adventure arrives in menu of options, choose to focus Write, ‘Unclutter’ on the cover. Now the March issue. Don’t miss the W • SPORTS LA What exciting thing can you do, as on those actions that will give you, you are ready. Yes, you are. Allocate IES‘shocking’ ING • Cheers. • LENDending. KYLIE ET • CI NG SO DI & IL S BU UB to open... all • part of your Journey 2014? You have ‘Best Life’ (It can happen if you read several days month H •aCL RAIT PROMISES AJ • ELDER AMENTARY CHARD GALB TEST N •boxes TATE W a long list of such activity, right?TY • WIL‘EastLife’, Ta.)S • RI those stored of photos, letters, NYA DU–NR duitdammit@xtra.co.nz FA JA LS • ESOK? TY • LAVA TION • SA PACI FENCIBLE LA
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eastlife | real estate
Auctions
On Site Auctions vs In Rooms Auctions
favoured sale method
Some say ‘tomayto’ while others say ‘tomaato,’ what’s the difference; they’re both tomatoes! ‘On site’ or ‘in rooms’, what’s the difference, they’re both auctions!
Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on the local real estate market happenings. Welcome back! The 2014 real estate market seems to have started with some strength. We are listing new properties and are getting good numbers through open homes. People are making buying and selling decisions very positively. I was speaking with one local solicitor who had 28 agreements come through his door for processing in his first week back. Looking back at our local market in 2013, and using the median sale price as the benchmark, the market had a big movement upwards in value. In January 2013 the Median was $636,000. This moved steadily upwards to peak at $740,000 in August – representing a 16.4% increase, settling back to $727,000 in December – representing a 14.3% increase from January (figures from REINZ for “Eastern Beaches”). The introduction of the Reserve Bank’s LVR on October 1, came a couple of months after we hit our market high – but, this said, other parts of Auckland were still rising and continued to do so even after October.
SOLD
Of interest, the average price for all of New Zealand rose 10% to $466,022 from January to December 2013 (figures from QV). Auckland Transport has been busy on the new train and bus terminal in Panmure. The centre was officially opened in January and its aim is to make it easier to commute to the city from out east and encourage more people on to public transport. The next step is a bus lane that will run from there down Lagoon Drive to Pakuranga and eventually on to Botany Town Centre. With the commute to the city sometimes being the difference between families settling in Howick or another part of Auckland, this new option, combined with the existing Half Moon Bay ferry service, gives workers a chance to get out of their cars and even enjoy a stress-free commute. Bravely predicting forwards for 2014 we are expecting a market that will still be buoyant but with a better and easier pace in which people can make selling and buying decisions with a lot less pressure than was present throughout last year. Prices are still predicted to rise but certainly not at the same rate as they did in 2013.
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
Well, that depends on what vendors are looking for when selling a property by public auction which could be considered similar to tomatoes. They either flourish and bloom or they wither and die depending on the marketing efforts of the selling agent, interest in your property, its type and location and the auctioneer! Not all properties sell at auction but those that don’t often sell shortly afterwards if the vendor is willing to meet the market which may be above or below expectations. Crunch time comes when vendors have to decide to accept or reject the highest auction offer or that which is put on the table shortly thereafter! The offer at auction is cash but the offer presented after auction may be conditional!
One way to gauge whether you will have many bidders is if your property is not at the beginning or at the very end of the day’s schedule. Why? Because auctioneers worth their salt will pepper the programme with an early auction they think will sell to get the audience going. They’ll also finish on an auction they think will sell so as to keep buyers on site when auctions don’t look likely to sell. With an ‘on site auction’ participants are there to either bid for your property or to find out what happens with your property. They are there for your property alone either as genuine buyers or sticky beak neighbours! Personally, I like on site auctions as I feel they have a bit more integrity and are a true reflection of market interest in your property. Bring back the 90’s I say when on site auctions were a street event.
In rooms auctions can hide poor marketing results because there will be several auctions, all listed as commencing at the same time.
It was a spectacle when the auction went off and a disappointment when it didn’t but if a SOLD sign went up a few days later everyone knew that the vendors must have received more than the highest bid refused on the day!
Your auction may be the first or it may be last; whichever way, you won’t know who’s there to bid on your particular property until the bidding starts. Even though the room may be full of people none may be there for your property!
However you look at it, on site gives a better reading of the audience because it’s clear who’s there for you. But if you don’t care who’s there for your property an ‘in rooms auction’ may work. I prefer ‘on site!’ – Eric Chase, Re/Max Zest
SOLD
SOLD
ON THE MOVE FOR 2014?
Let my expertise help you achieve your dreams At Barfoot & Thompson, we work as a team with no boundaries or restrictions, so any one of our 1,400 plus salespeople can sell your property. That’s just one of the reasons we’re Auckland’s market leader.
Contact me today, and get the whole Barfoot & Thompson team working to deliver a premium price for your property.
Eric Koh AREINZ, B.Sc. (Hons) M: 021 388 383 | AH: 09 929 4433 E: e.koh@barfoot.co.nz O: 09 271 6199 | www.barfoot.co.nz
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drive Ranger on a roll Ford Ranger has seen by far the greatest year-on-year growth of any of the top five vehicles sold in New Zealand in 2013 – a 75 per cent increase over 2012 sales figures. Managing director of Ford New Zealand, Corey Holter, attributes the growth to a number of factors, the first being that the Ford Ranger has fundamentally changed just what a ute means to New Zealanders. “While still classed in the industry as a commercial vehicle, customers have found the Ford Ranger to excel equally on the job-site or at home providing a comfortable, safe vehicle for the family,” said Holter. “It’s great around town, on the farm or heading to the beach with the boat in tow.” Holter also attributes the success of the Ford Ranger to having better supply in 2013, but he adds that it was still not ideal.
news | review | new models
“We had a healthier supply in 2013 to help meet customer demand. That said, there were some variants of Ranger where demand outstripped supply, including our hero model – the Ranger Wildtrak.” The ability to take the family on holiday after a tough day on the job has also meant a shift in what New Zealanders look for in a ute. Safety is now a must, and, with the Ford Ranger, there is no safer ute. It’s still the only ute in New Zealand’s top five utes to have a 5-Star Euro NCAP and 5-Star ANCAP safety rating across the entire range, including the most popular variant in the segment – the double cab. The double cab ute accounts for more than 80 per cent of all sales and the Ford Ranger has a 5-Star safety rating for both 4WD and 2WD versions.
A group from the Heart for Youth Trust, which aims to teach youth and young adults life skills, self-esteem and encourage personal growth.
Mazda helps out Schools, charities, clubs and conservation programmes have benefited from a massive $51,000 plus donated by the Mazda Foundation to 20 individuals and groups around New Zealand. In its final funding round for 2013, the Foundation has, among others, assisted Heart for Youth, an Auckland-based charitable trust that aims to teach youth and young adults life skills, self-esteem and encourage personal growth. As part of what they do the trust takes groups of young people away on “kiwi camping” holiday experiences which focus on outdoor pursuits such as bush walking and tramping.
The camping trips aim to teach the students about self-esteem, how to build their confidence and also educate them on the environment. The Mazda Foundation grant will be used to purchase a trailer to transport tents and camping equipment to each destination. A contribution from the sale of every new Mazda in New Zealand goes to the Foundation which has now distributed more than $1,500,000 to 410 recipients since being established in 2005. The closing date for the next round of Mazda Foundation applications is March 31, 2014. www.mazdafoundation.org.nz
Precision through experience.
For specialist independent Porsche servicing 1/1 Brisbane St, Grey Lynn, Auckland. Tel 09-360 7951 Email peter@motorscience.co.nz
www.motorscience.co.nz
Paul Reynolds
Jono Munro
Peter Booth
Glen Robson
E513099
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eastlife | motoring
When buying a new car makes sense 2013 was a bumper year for the new vehicle industry, which saw record numbers of new vehicles sold in New Zealand.
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“New vehicles offer far superior safety features than the average five-year-old vehicle, and with a new car warranty, running costs are also dramatically reduced.” While many people look at the headline investment only, Mr Spicer
says motorists need to evaluate the cost of owning a vehicle over a certain number of years, including running costs and the likely value when moving it on. “And, you can’t put a price on safety – ABS, ESP and multiple airbags should be something buyers refuse to compromise on.” Nissan in particular has started 2014 very strongly, reporting sales well ahead of expectations. Mr Spicer adds. “With an amazing interest offer across the entire range, it’s no surprise really. For a limited time Nissan are
“Case in point is a new 2014 Nissan Micra; these are on special at Manuaku Nissan for only $18,990 plus on road costs. When you consider this vehicle’s features, and the value of a new car warranty, buying new is logical.” Another popular offer is the midsize Nissan X-Trail SUV, Mr Spicer says. This is currently on special starting from $31,990 plus on road costs and also qualifies for the 1% finance offer. Manukau Nissan is New Zealand’s newest Nissan dealership and is open seven days a week. Experience the brand new showroom on Cavendish Drive, featuring a spacious customer lounge, and a full suite of Nissan demonstrators.
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eastlife | motoring
All in a day’s work Be ready to meet the demands of your active life, on the job and off, work and play. Do you need to move the kids, pull the boat, pick up the in-laws and their luggage, get away for that well-earned break or take your business to the next level?
It is all in a day’s work for GVI Group, the home of Auckland SsangYong and its latest range. This Korean vehicle brand is focused on delivering innovative, high quality SUVs and utes, that are affordable and perfect for the Kiwi lifestyle. GVI Group is also the home of Auckland LDV. The LDV V80 cargo van (Leyland DAF), is one of Europe’s most recognisable commercial vehicle brands. In 2009, Shangai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC) acquired the commercial vehicles division of the British Motor Corporation and from this SAIC LDV was born, operating in China, UK, Europe, Japan, Australia and now, New Zealand.
‘
Rexton W 4x4 diesel
GVI Group not only cares about providing solutions for lifestyle requirements but also takes the “ouch” out of financing with quick and easy finance solutions on site, while you wait.”
Actyon Ute
Are you in the market for a vehicle that delivers style, comfort, economy and safety as well as fitting the budget? GVI Group has a vehicle to meet all your lifestyle requirements. Take a look at the SsangYong Korando range with its Italian styling. This true urban SUV has been developed for dynamic driving on and off road. Comfort and ease of access make it easy to slide straight into the driver’s seat and get away for that overdue break. The Korando is an affordable, stylish SUV, the ideal tool for promoting your business. It stands up to the all-important requirements of your reps and their life on the road, delivering comfort and safety with an ‘energywise’ fuel economy rating of 4.5 stars. Maybe your active life requires moving kids and their friends, as well as pulling a boat or the horse float. If that’s the case, then the luxurious SsangYong Rexton W range is worth looking at. The Rexton W 4x4 diesel is the SUV flagship for SsangYong with a towing capacity of 3,200kg, up to seven seats, stylish and sporty with a big heart under the hood.
76 | eastlife | february 2014
LDV V80 Cargo Van However, if none of the above meets your requirements and you want to find a solution for the high demands of the job, GVI Group offers the SsangYong’s 4x4 Actyon ute and the LDV V80 cargo vans to help take your business to the next level without breaking the bank. SsangYong Actyon double cab, 4 x 4 diesel ute features a 2.0L e-XDi engine, with maximum torque of 360nm/1,500rpm. It has a deep sided cargo bed with a carrying capacity of 2 cubic metres and is built for tough times on the job and off. It has a towing capability of 2,500kg. Should you wish to move more than the concrete mixer, motorbikes, work tools and camping gear, take a serious look at
the LDV V80 cargo van. It has all the features, safety, economy and space to make the work day enjoyable plus a solid design with great versatility, and a strong engine and driveline. The product range boasts of a ‘BIG’, ‘BIGGER’ and the ‘BIGGEST’. The cubic capacity is from 6.420cbm to 11.620cbm, kg capacity of 1260kg to 1400kg. Dual sliding doors and rear barn doors make it easy to load and unload pallets. LDV has had sales success as a cargo and passenger van accommodating up to 12 seats. It has won numerous international awards and is the vehicle of choice for the British Government for use by the Royal Banks, Royal Mail and as travel vehicles for the British Royal family.
Korando At GVI Group, they not only care about providing solutions for lifestyle requirements but also take the “ouch” out of financing with quick and easy finance solutions on site, while you wait. A fully equipped GVI Automotive Service Centre takes good care of vehicles, developing that all-important trusted, long-term relationship. A modern clean customer lounge, and free courtesy car are available if required. Give GVI Group a call and book a test drive, 0800 443 684 or call in for a visit, have a coffee and get to know the team. GVI Group 575 Great South Road, Penrose www.aucklandssangyong.co.nz www.genuinevehicleimports.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz
motoring | eastlife
KIA SURPRISES WITH MIGHTY GT4 SPORTS CAR The unveiling of the powerful Kia GT4 Stinger concept vehicle at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show revealed a racy, timeless vehicle designed to turn heads. With plenty of grunt, thanks to a 235kW (315hp) race-bred engine that relays its power through the rear wheels, the GT4 Stinger underlines the sporting credentials of the Kia brand. It’s about purity, simplicity and timelessness combined with power.
With its ‘shrink-wrapped’ appearance, the body panels appear to be formed around the chassis instead of merely welded to it. The long bonnet melds into the massive glass area that makes the car appear as if it is wearing “wrap-around sunglasses”, before swooping to a fastback rear with powerful wheel-arch bulges over the rear wheels and large, twin exhausts set into the valance. Inside, the Kia GT4 Stinger has an
BACKING HENRY
TV3’s The Paul Henry Show, launched last month, brings the controversial broadcaster back to our small screen in a big way. equally powerful presence, with moulded leather, race-inspired buckets seats and instruments set into a simple dash. Kia says that while there are no plans to put the concept into production, the company does have a history of building vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to concepts.
Thanks to sponsor, Kia Motors New Zealand, viewers can enjoy a new approach to late news; topical – not typical, outspoken – not out-dated as the irrepressible Henry focuses on a different angle to the news, weeknights at 10.35pm. Liz Fraser, from MediaWorks TV says Kia’s brand position, ‘The Power to Surprise’, makes the firm a perfect fit with the new show. “The Paul Henry Show is entertaining and surprising. It’s fantastic to have a sponsor as forward thinking as Kia.” Kia Motors NZ general manager, Todd McDonald, says the opportunity to be a part of a new approach in late night news was too good to pass up. “What’s more, we have worked with the team to include a few surprises.”
KIA VALUE
AT ANDREW SIMMS BOTANY
TOP SELLER INCREDIBLE VALUE SUV Value at
$31,800
+ $950 ORC RRP is $34,240 + ORC
OB1915NZH
Pre-registered Kia Sportage Urban LX 2.0
Finance Example: Pay $8,000 deposit then just $130 per week for 60 months with a final residual payment of $8,000. Lease Example: Lease for 45 months / 60,000 kms for just $480 + GST per month, non-maintained operating lease.
• Economical 2.0 litre, just 8.8 litres / 100km • 6 speed sport mode automatic. Immediate delivery • 16” sport alloy wheels,keyless entry, Bluetooth, reverse sensors, fog lamps and much more • Seven airbags, ABS, ESC, 5 star safety rating • Kia 5 year warranty and roadside assistance
350 Ti Irirangi Drive, Botany Ph (09) 523 7270 • www.andrewsimmsbotany.co.nz • OPEN 7 DAYS www.eastlife.co.nz
eastlife | february 2014 |
77
eastlife | motoring
All downhill from here The media launch of BMW’s X5 SUV took motoring correspondent ALISTAIR DAVIDSON on the nerve-wracking ride of a lifetime that, nevertheless, left him feeling exhilarated. I’ve experienced some pretty freaky things in automobiles. Riding shotgun in a drag car, sideways at 150mph, rated highly on my list of weak-knee moments.
‘
Likewise, being a passenger with Carlos Sainz and John Bowe (the former on dirt, the latter around Sandown racetrack in Australia) at full noise were butt-clenchers.
I was about to drive a $174,000 X5 M50d over a long, steep, grassy bank. It was raining, hard. The slope was slipperier than a politician during a corruption investigation.� Getting back to the serious off-road stuff, no doubt you’re waiting to read how I barrel rolled the BMW three times and took out 100 metres of fencing in the process. Sorry to disappoint you. It was effortless. Nerve-wracking, yes, but dead easy. I never knew that Hill Descent Control (HDC) works in reverse gear. Thankfully it does.
There have also been some ‘oh my God’ moments when I’ve been behind the wheel; some planned, some unplanned. Most of the planned ones have been at car events where driver trainers had you doing things that put you way outside your comfort zone. Most of it involved skid control, on closed roads/tracks and under strict adult supervision. My doctor says I’m not allowed sharp objects, but I’m always the first in line at a skid pan. Normally I just mumble to myself, ‘what can possibly go wrong?’, and go for it. I took the same approach at the recent BMW X5 media launch when I was about to drive a $174,000 X5 M50d over a long, steep, grassy bank. It was raining, hard. The slope was slipperier than a politician during a corruption investigation. I’m not sure if it was a lack of recent off-road driving or the value of the car, but I was packing myself. Oh yeah, I know why I was freaking out. We were about to launch over the
edge backwards. Yep, that’s right, in reverse. You’ve got to hand it to BMW NZ. Talk about faith in its product. We had close to one million dollars worth of luxury SUVs on shiny big alloy wheels, the kind of vehicles that rarely see offroad use. Yet, here we were, tackling challenging, hilly terrain and fording deep creeks on a farm near Raumati in the central North Island. ‘What, you want us to go through that muddy creek, rocky approach and all?’ ‘Yep, go for it.’ ‘And we’re going to the top of that hill? It’s steep, grassy, it’s raining and we’re on road tyres.’
‘Just take it easy, you’ll be sweet.’ And we were sweet, due in a small part to my uncanny off-roading ability and mostly due to the clever driving aids that are standard on an X5. X5 pioneered the luxury performance SUV, cleverly melding real off-road ability with impressive on-road performance and handling. The new third generation X5 builds on those strengths, according to BMW. I know this to be true because we got to fang (I mean ‘carefully evaluate’) both the M50d and the $129,000 30d in Napier’s morning traffic, on flowing sealed rural roads, over the ‘Gentle Annie’, on rutted gravel, then to Raumati for the serious off-road stuff.
HDC takes care of everything except steering. You ease the vehicle over the precipice, take your foot off the accelerator and don’t touch it, or the brake, the entire way down. The vehicle maintains a predetermined speed, which you can adjust using the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel. It takes real willpower not to use the brake. Because once you do, HDC switches off and you’re back in control. Or completely out of control, depending on your ability. HDC’s nothing new, and BMW didn’t fling me, and its swish new X5, over a cliff to showcase the system. Rather, in demonstrating how good this SUV is on and off-road, BMW wasn’t backward in coming forward.
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www.eastlife.co.nz
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eastlife | february 2014 | 79
directory
Maria Stephens
KNOW HOW
to maximise the value of your property Carolynne Scott Licensee Branch Manager Ph DDI: 09 538 1208 Mobile: 0274 991 466 Email: carolynne.scott@raywhite.com
0800 008 018
Consult
m.stephens@barfoot.co.nz www.mariastephens.co.nz
“Smarter “SmarterBuilding BuildingSurveying” Surveying”
Maria believes delivering a dedicated and professional service is the foundation for establishing trust and building longterm relationships with her clients.
ExpErt AdvicE • Pre-purchase inspections • Insurance valuations • Weathertightness 021 458 375 artpropconsult@gmail.com
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EastLife is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations: Botany Botany Information Centre, Conservatory, Botany Town Centre Botany Library, Level 1 Sunset Tce, Botany Town Centre Jag Kitchens, inside Danske Mobler, Botany Town Centre Harvey Norman, 500 Ti Rakau Dr Munn’s the Man’s Store, 451 Ti Rakau Dr
80 | eastlife | february 2014
Pakuranga Golf Club, 199 Botany Rd Eves Pantry, 309 Botany Rd Botany south Hot Spring Spas, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl Art and Framing, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl Mitre 10 Mega, Bishop Dunn Pl Columbus Coffee, Homebase Botany, 16J Bishop Dunn Pl
Bucklands Beach Bucklands Espresso Lounge, Cnr Wharf Rd and Hattaway Ave Bucklands Beach Veterinary Hospital, 340 Bucklands Beach Rd Farm Cove Mon Bichon, 190 Fisher Pde Half Moon Bay Sealink Ferry Terminal, 1 Ara Tai Dr
Marina Fitness, Compass Building, Ara Tai Dr A&J Cafe, Promenade Building, Ara Tai Dr Highbrook Fisher House, 117 Kerwyn Ave Highland Park Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Dr Highland Park Shopping Centre, Central Pavillion, www.eastlife.co.nz
directory MEGANZ School of ViSuAl ArtS
Sale now on!
House that breathes is the house that lives. Live a healthy life and keep sicknesses away.
Classes begin Saturday, February 8 For age 10 to adults – 9.30-11am, 11-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm, Thursday 3.30-5pm Drawing, cartoons, painting, mixed media, book illustration, sculpture and more College art board, Uni portfolio help 6 students per class
Exterior Chemical Wash removes fungi, moss, etc that attract pests such as flies, cockroaches, mosquitoes etc to breed. It also protects the paint and increases its life considerably. We use latest ‘state-of-the-art’ mister technology for even spray of pesticides both inside and outside the house.
Ph Megan 537 2292 meganz@vizart.co.nz www.vizart.co.nz
FURNITURE – ART – ORNAMENTS – LIGHTING – PLUS MUCH MORE 350 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland | PH: 522 2626 | www.countrytheme.co.nz
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Visit our website to check our sale items
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ph: 534 1823 mob: 021 123 5650 lynn@fusionlandscapedesign.co.nz www.fusionlandscapedesign.co.nz
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Inner Concepts, 186 Wellington St Westpac Howick, 19 Wellington St Shamrock Cottage, 73 Selwyn Rd Pakuranga Frames Today, 421 Pakuranga Rd Pakuranga Plaza Information Desk Pakuranga Library, 7 Aylesbury St Brownson’s Jewellers, Pakuranga Plaza
Howick Historical Village, Cnr Bells Road and Lady Marie Drive, Lloyd Elsmore Park Howick Little Theatre, Sir Lloyd Dr Placemakers Pakuranga, 481 Pakuranga Rd Pine Harbour The Jolly Roger Pub, 190 Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina Whitford Prenzel of Whitford, 7 Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford Village
EastLife is published on the first week of each month excluding January. Copies will go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets. An electronic version is also available at www.eastlife.co.nz.
eastlife | february 2014 |
81
directory BEAUTY CLINIC Hydrating Facial (including exfoliation, ONLY
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82 | eastlife | february 2014
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motoring | eastlife
2WD/4WD
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eastlife | february 2014 |
83 E512107
RESULTS Another great reason to go with RE/MAX Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX
David Hilliam 021 925 996
RE/MAX Zest (Howick) 3/15 Cook Street, Howick ph. 09 538 0020 Zest for Realty Limited. Licensed Under the REAA (2008).
Rob Hewison 021 284 3629
Graeme Kidd 021 0824 0061
RE/MAX Zest (Remuera) 322 Remuera Road, Remuera ph. 09 524 5242
E512053
Matt Clark 0273 811 733