EastLife September 2013

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

www.eastlife.co.nz

out & about | eastlife

September 2013

ELLE & JAKE creating high tea experience

Howick adventurer

CLIMBING EVER HIGHER Discover

Vanuatu OUT & ABOUT | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY | FOOD | ART | HOME | MOTORING | EVENTS | TRAVEL www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | september 2013 |

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 eastlife | out & about

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SIX

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                            

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         

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      

quote >>>     Check out our blackboard at the office for more inspirational quotes or drop by and tell us your favourite. 

  

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  2

 | eastlife | september 2013

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 out & about | eastlife



        

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where people matter eastlife  | september 2013 |

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eastlife | contents

on the cover

From a lad who once gazed dreamily at the Hauraki Gulf from a Macleans College window, former Howickian Kevin Biggar has gone on to cross oceans in a plywood dinghy, battle the elements of Antarctica and to climb to great heights. This year New Zealanders have watched him tackle many a challenging journey in his TV series, First Crossings; this month EastLife provides a little insight into this adventurer extraordinaire.

See page 17.

Cover photo supplied

Highs and lows What a fascinating month for the Eastlife team which has encountered so many interesting people – locals who have done and are doing remarkable things in the world.

I wonder if readers knew Kevin Biggar, from First Crossings, was a former Macleans College student? I am constantly amazed at how many of the district’s young residents go on to achieve highly in their adult lives, making a mark on the national and international arenas.

While the month has held many highlights it has also been one of great sorrow here at EastLife and in our parent company. The tragic death of Kurt Williams, elder son of colleague Diane Andrew, in a Western Australian mining accident, has shaken staff members who have felt Diane’s loss keenly. We know there are many people in the community who knew Kurt and also know Diane well – the support shown to her and her family goes a long way in helping them deal with

what will seem insurmountable.

While we may feel totally inadequate in our efforts to ease her pain, how glad I am there are so many to surround her with love.

On a different note, September 23-29 marks the International Year of the Deaf with its theme of equality focusing on the linguistic, artistic, social, political and cultural contributions and accomplishments of deaf people. Personally, I cannot imagine a world of silence and I am so admiring of those in both the deaf and hearing worlds who can sign proficiently to bridge the communication gap.

Today, technology is developing all the time but when I was young, the daughter of a family friend was deaf and I recall how isolated she often was. Later, when I met my husband, I found, thanks to his great-grandmother, he could sign to some degree but it is a skill that has faded with time and lack of use.

Now, I am again reminded how easy it is to get on with life and forget the challenges facing others. I am also aware that many will, at some stage, suffer from reduced hearing, perhaps work-related or from ageing in general. So, don’t be complacent; consider your own hearing and have regular checks so you can stay tuned to our wonderful world of sounds.

Finally, this month also marks Blue September, the nationwide awareness campaign run by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ. We have more about that on page 33 delivering a message all men should heed.

And, that’s it from me.

Helen Perry Editor

This month...

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz

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INTERVIEW

Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz

10 questions in 10 minutes with stuntman Allan Poppleton

Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz

10-11 what’s where

Sales: Nicole Marshall 09 271 8092, nicole@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz

Local happenings around and about

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PROFILE

Manager: Karla Wairau 09 271 8083, karla@eastlife.co.nz

2011 Masterchef NZ winner Nadia Lim launches Food Bag project

Managing Director: Reay Neben 09 271 8012, reayn@eastlife.co.nz

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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.

4 | eastlife | september 2013

EastLife social photographer scoops award

18 syndication Tracking syndicate success with Jack Poppleton

20 win!

Loads of prizes

21-27 Lifestyle

• Local ad man clever with words • Reay Neben discovers Vanuatu

• Essential items for home and personal use

the chris tate forest house 28-36 health, beauty and fashion

• Well spotted • Spring into colour

• Blue September – prostate cancer awareness

• Path to happiness

• Weighing up carbs

37-50 home

• NZ seeds sprout in holy land • Chris Tate – new angles on architecture

• A good night’s rest

• Regular columnists Bill Potter, Richard Galbraith, Greg Roy and Nick Neben talk business

51-55 food • Brothers in cafe arms • High Tea with Jake and Elle at Stamford Plaza

58 motoring • BMW’s M6 Gran Coupe – mind-numbing performance www.eastlife.co.nz

out &Teamabout McMillan | eastlife BMW

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eastlife | interview

10 TEN

Ten questions in ten minutes with

Allan Poppleton

Let’s face it, pain heals, chicks dig scars and glory lasts forever, and perhaps none know this better than Howick’s own stuntman, Allan Poppleton. During a 20-year career, Allan has battled his way from set to set, working on films and TV shows including Avatar, The Hunger Games, Evil Dead, The Wolverine, The Expendables, and The Chronicles of Narnia. Allan is currently in Europe working on Hercules: The Thraican Wars, but he still took time to speak to EastLife who interviewed the stunt and fight co-ordinator... from a safe distance!

Why did you become a stuntman?

I didn’t go looking for this career, it found me. Back in 1993 stunt coordinator, Peter Bell came to my martial art club looking for a trainer.

My instructor, Martin Lindgren, told me to help Peter out and I was hired to train Amazon women for Hercules and the Amazon Women TV movie. I actually played one of the Amazons, so my first job in the industry involved wearing a bird mask and fighting as a woman!

What’s the most dangerous stunt you’ve performed?

One of the most dangerous was for Street Legal. I drove a security car and just as we were stopped, a large fork hoist slammed into the car. I had to duck under the forks as the window smashed; the hoist hit the side, pushed the car across the road and then picked it up. Timing was the key for that one.

What’s the worst injury you’ve suffered?

I have been lucky (or careful) over the past 20 years, touch wood! The worst injuries were a torn lower abdominal muscle and a sprain or two.

Are there actors you’ve worked with who handle their own stunts?

Jason Statham does a lot. He used to be a high diver; he actually came to the 1991 Commonwealth Games in Auckland! He has excellent body awareness and is great at doing his fight scenes. Hugh Jackman is also amazing, as is the entire cast from the Spartacus series – I admire them for getting stuck in.

When working, does being separated from your wife (Erika Takacs – former True Bliss star) put a strain on your relationship and when together, does she ‘sing your praises’?

6 | eastlife | september 2013

I’m the luckiest man to be married to Erika. Yes, she does sing my praises (that was pretty bad, by the way hahaha!) as I do hers. Actually, Erika has worked with me for more than six years and we make an awesome team. She is our stunt department co-ordinator with a host of jobs. We have raised my two youngest children within the industry and we all travel together which is great. Erika still sings and does TV commercials but she is super busy looking after our kids and working. We are expecting my 4th and our 3rd child around the end of September which will be amazing.

Aside from your Emmy nomination (for Outstanding Stunt Coordination for Spartacus: Gods of the Arena) what has been a career highlight?

I’ve also had six world stunt award nominations, but I think my career itself is the highlight. I work with some of my best friends, travel the world, meet very cool people (and some fools too – FYI!) and best of all, I work with Erika.

How vital is it for Kiwis to be involved in making films and TV shows?

It’s obviously very important and because of producers such as Rob Tapert, Chloe Smith and Tim Coddington, our local industry has had some incredible years with shows such as Hercules and Xena, and films including The Chronicles of Narnia, which have helped develop the expertise of Kiwi crews. Kiwis have a great name in international filmmaking circles. They offer a great work ethic, are easy going, have a ‘give it a go’ attitude and good old Kiwi ingenuity.

Ridley Scott on Kingdom of Heaven; Andrew Adamson on Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, and Prince Caspian; and James Cameron on Avatar. Ridley knows what he wants and can pretty much edit the film for you as you look at his monitors. Andrew is a perfectionist and it rubs off, making you want to give 120%. James is just off the chain! On Avatar he produced, wrote, designed every animal and plant, directed, camera operated and edited the entire film; he never ran out of ideas! All three are brilliant.

Who are the most interesting filmmakers you’ve met?

What is the first thing you would do if you had control of the NZ Film Commission?

I’ve been lucky to work with great filmmakers, but three come to mind:

Establish bigger studios and filming facilities in Auckland and get the

Government to sort out better incentives for offshore productions to come to NZ. If you could invite three people from the film industry to dinner – dead or alive – who would you ask?

Kevin Sorbo, because he was the first actor I worked with and is a super nice guy. The Pevensies (the children from the Narnia films). I did three movies with the four children, William, Skandar, Anna and Georgie and watched them grow. Finally, Andy Whitfield, an absolute legend. He was a wonderful dad, husband, actor and all round great guy. He is sorely missed. It would be great to catch up with them and their families by having a good old chat and a feed. www.eastlife.co.nz

out & about with carmen bird | eastlife

gallaher shield triumph It was celebration time last month when Pakuranga United won the Gallaher Shield for the first time beating University 55 to 12 in the Auckland Rugby Union’s premier competition. That night saw members and friends in a jubilant mood at the clubrooms.

Howick photographer CARMEN BIRD captured the excitement.

1. Graeme Heaphy, bubs and Jon Heaphy 2. Kelly Lambert, Courtney Rowsen, Janine Nathan, Bianca Peters, Adele Hunkin 3. Gareth Arlidge, Oliver Day

4. Tonica, Megan, Pita and Trey Alatini 5. Paul Hoverd, John East 6. Namatahi Waa, Paul Feeney, Wayne Pivac 7. Dylan Marais, Kirk Eveleigh

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8. Wesley Malua, Malakai Fekitoa, Graeme Heaphy, David Whitecliffe-Davies 9. Richard Galbraith, Kyle Cattermoul 10. John East, Paul Feeney

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n Photography by Carmen Bird | For orders email carmen-marie@xtra.co.nz | www.carmenbirdphotography.co.nz

Want a career in REAL ESTATE? Do you have passion – enthusiasm – motivation – and a drive to succeed?

WE OFFER •great office culture • coaching and mentoring • an earn while you study programme • supportive non-selling manager • main street Howick office location Contact in confidence: Jon Simpson OWNER/MANAGER 021 618452 | email: jon@fnhowick.co.nz Licenced REAA

09 538 0105 www.fnhowick.co.nz E512052

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | september 2013 |

7

eastlife || out out && about about with with carmen carmen bird bird eastlife

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out & about with carmen bird | eastlife

Farewell to veteran vet After 30 years of outstanding service, esteemed vet and owner of Pakuranga Vet Clinic & Cattery, Ian Scandrett, has decided to retire from practice, leaving the business in the hands of the clinic’s main vet and new owner, Sasha Nowell. More than 100 people turned up at the clinic to farewell and celebrate the service of the likeable personality.

KNOW HOW to maximise the value of your property

1. Ian Scandrett and Sasha Nowell 2. Christian and Carissa Hahn 3. Sam and Linda McCallum 4. Ray and Dawn Linkhorn 5. Ian and Bev Laywood 6. Linda McCallum, Anya Kean, Heather Gudsell, Sasha Nowell, Katherine Harris, Melissa Laywood

Carolynne Scott Licensee Branch Manager

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Phone DDI: 09 538 1208 Mobile: 0274 991 466 Email: carolynne.scott@raywhite.com

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6 n Photography by Carmen Bird | www.carmenbirdphotography.co.nz For orders email carmen-marie@xtra.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

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eastlife | September 2013 |

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eastlife | events

September 2013 SEPTEMBER ➤ CHARITY Howick Gala Auction Evening September 28, 7.30pm, Prospect of Howick Calling for all valuable items past and present! The good people at the Prospect of Howick are looking for any items from the community that can go towards its auction to aid Howick Village Radio’s quest to buy a mobile caravan. All welcome, donation at door and there will be entertainment and nibbles. For donations or to book a table, contact Erica or Donna on 534 3199 or email admin@theprospect.co.nz

➤ ENTERTAINMENT Looking September 7-28, 8pm, September 8 & 15, 2pm, Howick Little Theatre Val is a nurse, Andy is in the storage business, Nina is a police officer and Matt is a morning radio show host – all middle-aged, single and looking.

Then, Val agrees to meet Andy after answering his personal ad and their friends Nina and Matt are coaxed into offering moral support, producing a result that is surprising, unexpected and hilarious. Dash along to see the Auckland premiere of this romantic comedy directed by Julian Harrison.

Tickets www.iticket.co.nz.

Live Day – Treasure September 15, 10am-4pm The villagers at Howick Historical Village are harbouring treasures of the most interesting kind. Curious?

Well, nosy along to this event and the good people will open up their homes to all who knock on their door.

There’s something for everyone at this family-friendly gathering. See www.fencible.org.nz for more info.

Wicked – The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz September 17 – October 15, Civic Theatre Celebrating its 10th year on stage, the notoriously Wicked musical will premiere at The Civic this month. Depicting the events set in the fictional city of Oz before the well-known story of Dorothy of Oz took place, Wicked is a bewitching tale told with plenty of pomp and circumstance plus superb dancing, singing, and acting. Played by an Australian cast, see this defining musical and be whisked away into the magical world of Oz. www.the-edge. co.nz for tickets.

Disco Nights: The Australian Abba and Bee Gees Tribute Show September 19, 8pm, Howick Club Let your hair down and watch the professionals dance the night away in the ultimate dance-off between Abba and Bee Gees! Watch world class acts ABBA Rebjorn and The Ultimate Bee Gees come to life at the Howick Club.

Tickets are $49 per person; to book phone 0800 BUY TIX.

➤ FESTIVALS ATAMIRA Maori in the City September 6-8, 10am, Viaduct Have some kai, listen to some

Festival Zen Garden Cherry Blossom Festival September 22, 12pm-4pm in full full bloom bloom surrounded surrounded by by the the fabulous fabulous See the gorgeous hues of spring in Whitford. Admire Admire the the flowering flowering cherry cherry blossom blossom setting of Zen Garden in Whitford.

Japanese way way with with aa variety variety of of food food stalls stalls trees and celebrate spring the Japanese Shuttle buses buses will will be be available available to to pick pick up up from from and entertainment on offer. Shuttle www.zengarden.co.nz for for more more info info and and tickets. tickets. several locations. See www.zengarden.co.nz waiata, and be entertained by traditional and contemporary kapahaka performances in the culture, city. A celebration of Maori culture, ATAMIRA will unfold at The Cloud and Shed 10 at Auckland’s Viaduct over three days. This free, familybest friendly event will showcase the best Maori of Maori with art exhibitions, Maori arts and crafts including sculpture and weaving, stage performances, and sports, film, fashion, food stalls and business cooking demos as well as business networking. www.atamira.org.nz.

Auckland Heritage Festival September 28 – October 13 Here’s a chance to embrace the magic of Auckland with plenty of things to see and do around our with City of Sails. Discover the ports with free public sailings on the William CC Daldy steam tug from Hobson Wharf Wharf West (near the National Maritime Museum in the Viaduct) at the weekend. For more info go to www. www. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

➤ EXPOS New Zealand Zealand Fashion Fashion Week Week New September 2-8 2-8 September Feel the the buzz buzz and and tingle tingle of of excitement excitement Feel coming from from Auckland’s Auckland’s hottest hottest coming fashion runways runways at at the the Viaduct’s Viaduct’s fashion Events Centre.

Centre. For For one one week, week, the the Events world’s media, media, buyers, buyers, and and New New world’s Zealand’s trendiest trendiest crowd crowd congregate congregate Zealand’s to celebrate celebrate homegrown homegrown labels labels with with to hair and and beauty beauty seminars, seminars, goodie goodie hair bags and and fashion fashion shows shows galore. galore. This This bags year sees sees Fashion Fashion Weekend Weekend extended extended year to Friday, Friday, making making itit aa total total of of three three to days of of fashion fashion indulgence. indulgence. Ticket Ticket days prices to to the the weekend weekend range range from from $15 $15 prices to $35, $35, see see www.iticket.co.nz. www.iticket.co.nz. to Howick Antiques Antiques & & Collectables Collectables Fair Fair Howick September 29, 29, 9am-3pm, 9am-3pm, Howick Howick September Recreation Centre Centre Recreation Pick Pick out out beautiful beautiful and and collectable collectable treasures treasures to to take take home home from from the the fair. fair. Find Find aa rare rare cornucopia cornucopia of of china, china, silver, silver, dinnerware, dinnerware, furniture, furniture, books, books, exquisite exquisite jewellery, jewellery, as as well well as as dolls dolls

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

events | eastlife and stamps to add to the collection.

Entry is $4 and free for children; for more info, phone Diane 021 609399.

Digital Nationz September 28 & 29, 10am-6pm (Saturday) 10am-5pm (Sunday), Vector Arena See robots wrestle, listen to talks from the world’s best techxperts, game developers and have a go at 3D printing at Auckland’s first digital entertainment expo. A must for gamers, technophiles and gadget gurus, this interactive event will also host a History of Video Games Museum showcasing every console ever made, a Digital Artz Gallery exhibiting Kiwi game art and a widescale LAN tournament. For info and tickets visit dnz.tinsoldier.net.nz Auckland Pet & Animal Expo September 28 & 29, 10am-5pm, ASB Showgrounds Bring the whole family to an exhibition of the best products, services and entertainment for pet and animal lovers. A fuzzy, happy show for all, the Auckland Pet & Animal Expo will appeal to even the fussiest of pet lovers. For the benefit of all, show organisers encourage show goers to leave their pets at home. See www. petanimalexpo.co.nz.

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Waiheke Island of Wine Expo September 17, 4pm-6.30pm Step into The Floating Pavilion in the Viaduct to taste wines from 17 different Waiheke Island vineyards including Cable Bay, Destiny Bay, Man O’ War, Mudbrick and Stonyridge. Artisan Waiheke Island food producers will also be on-site showcasing their produce. Tickets $25; go to www.eventfinder.co.nz.

➤ SPORTS P6 – Six Hour Adventure Race September 7, 9am Thrill seekers, pay attention! P6 is a six-hour adventure race for all levels mainly designed to be an introduction to adventure racing, but is also set to challenge hardcore adventure racers.

With pedal, plod, pursuit, paddle, plan and puzzle activities lined up, feel the adrenaline pumping like never before. Held at a secret location less than 60 minutes from the centre of Auckland, all will be revealed the week of the event. See www. lacticturkey.co.nz for more details.

The Edge Series – Extreme Edge Panmure September 7, 8.30am-4.30pm Limber up and set sights high! The Auckland Sportclimbing Club and

from

8395

pp share twin in a Window Suite

DEPARTS: Set departures from Mar-Dec 14. *Price based on 08 Nov 14 departure INCLUDES: APT Exclusive! Explore the rooms and gardens of Burg Namedy Castle at your leisure, before a lavish royal banquet. All meals, beverages*, and entertainment onboard; sightseeing and shore excursions; transfers, Wi-Fi, port charges and tipping.

House of Travel Botany Junction 09 273 3330 | botanyjunction@hot.co.nz

J008223

➤ Markets

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

Howick Village Market Every Saturday, 8.30am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick

Pakuranga Night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza

Classy Crafts Every Saturday, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick

Ormiston Community Market Every Saturday, 8am-1pm, Ormiston College, 275 Ormiston Rd, Flat Bush

DO URO DELIG HT S

15 day River Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa

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The Crank September 13, Friday, 6am-6pm, The Cloud Following last year’s inaugural event youth charity CanTeen has brought its mass indoor cycling challenge to The Cloud. CanTeen is aiming for 1500 fitness enthusiasts, corporate and sports teams to hop on RPM bikes and cycle their hearts out.

Event registration covers the cost of the event and money raised will go towards activities to support, develop and empower young people in NZ suffering from cancer. Six and 12-hour challenges and solo options are available. Visit www.thecrank.co.nz.

European RIVER cruising SUPER deals

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Extreme Edge Climbing are running a series of fun climbing competitions for all ages with cool spot prizes from North Face, Mountain Designs, Macpac, Bivouac, Black Diamond and other sponsors. Tickets are $15 for students and $25 for the public.

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DEPARTS: Set departures May, Jun & Sep 14 *Price based on 28 Jun 14 departure INCLUDES: Enjoy a delicious lunch and glass of port at the 14th century Alpendurada Monastery. 3 nights in Lisbon, 7 night river cruise from Porto to Barca d’Alva & 3 nights Madrid. All meals, beverages*, and entertainment onboard; sightseeing and shore excursions; transfers, Wi-Fi, port charges and tipping.

AIR CREDIT

v RECEIVE x $1150pp air credit

House of Travel Howick 09 535 4559 | howick@hot.co.nz

CONDITIONS: Valid for new bookings only until 31 Oct 13 or until sold out • Prices are correct as at 17 Jul 13 but may vary on subsequent tax, fees & surcharge increases or exchange rates • Prices include port charges, gratuities and sundries • Offers are not combinable and may be withdrawn at any time • Amendment and cancellation fees apply • First non-refundable deposit of $1000pp is due within 7 days of booking being made. Second deposit of $2000pp is due by 31 Oct 13. Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure • *Complimentary beverages exclude French Champagne, premium spirits & selected wines • FLY FREE: Valid on a selection of cruise/tours departing 2014. Available year round on selected departures in suite Cat. E &D. Available in all other suite categories for departures in Mar & Oct-Dec 14 • Flights must be booked

by APT • Airfares are economy class with Singapore Airlines (or an airline of APT’s choosing) from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, subject to availability of airline and booking class • Prices include air taxes to the value of $200pp • $1150pp AIR CREDIT: Air must be booked by APT • Credit cannot be redeemed for cash and is not transferable • We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance to be taken at the time of paying a deposit • To be read in conjunction with APT Europe River Cruising 2014 brochure which passengers are bound by • Please ask your House of Travel consultant for full details.

For agent’s reference, Prices based on EUMC15: 8 November 2014 (Cat. E), EUPDCLM14: 28 June 2014 (Cat. E), EUCDR15: 30 March 2014 (Category D), EURC15: 6 November 2014 (Cat.E).

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eastlife | september 2013 |

11

eastlife | out &KITCHENETTE about –

THE ISRAELI KITCHEN Yay...spring is almost here and what better way to enjoy these sunny days than having a great coffee and yummy food with friends and family?

So come and try our unique and tasty food, we only use the best ingredients and freerange eggs/bacon/ chicken. NO processed food here so you can rest assured your meal here is not just tasty but healthy as well...

drama & art | eastlife SEPTEMBER SPECIAL FREE reg' coffee with your breakfast meal Make sure to mention EastLife when you place your order

Check out our newly launched website at www.highlandparkjewellers.co.nz See examples of rings, pendants and charms. Read the inside story of our workshop and discover our extensive range of services including laser welding repairs.

Highland Park Shopping Centre – beside Westpac. Ph 551 0961.

Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch & dinner Shop 1, Highland Park Shopping Centre, 505 Pakuranga Highway, Highland Park. Ph 537 5656.

Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.30pm, Saturday 9am-5.30pm

WORLD TRAVELLERS Planning your travel to Europe?

Enjoy new route, new comfort by BOEING 787 and new fun in Guangzhou!

From NZ $1769*/pp (tax included) for the flight fare, and NZ$189/pp for a 2 day stopover tour package in Guangzhou!

Contact Miss Cecilia, World Travellers, Shop 16, Highland Park Shopping Centre, Pakuranga Highway, Highland Park. Ph 535 8588. www.worldtravellersea.co.nz

THE NATURAL HEALTH CO. ORGANIC STORE Come in and see our new range of organic, raw products including • Little Bird Range • Crackers • Granola • Chocolate • Honey (unheated). We also have a range of different types of Couscous and Dukkah.

Try our delicious range of Organic Bees Blessing cordials: • Mulled Lemon Honey • Elderflower Check out our organic Trade Aid products.

Did you know we sell Organic Surge Skincare – at the moment we have a fantastic price – all products only $9.90 across the range.

Don’t forget our great range of organic fruit and veges plus our frozen foods range (Fry’s, Linda McCartney).

ACTUELLE BEAUTY THERAPY At Actuelle, we understand that you don’t have a lot of time, but want great results for your skin. It’s a priority for you to look and feel great, as you lead your busy life. We can help you achieve this and have amazing skin – hassle free!

Did you know that 80% of your skin’s results comes from what you’re doing to it!

Highland Park Shopping Centre, Pakuranga Highway, Highland Park.

Ph 535 4076, open 6 days – 3 late nights

Shop 27, Highland Park Shopping Centre, Pakuranga Highway, Highland Park. Ph 534 0445.

CORNER AVIEMORE DR & PAKURANGA ROAD www.highlandparkshoppingcentre.co.nz

12 | eastlife | september 2013

www.eastlife.co.nz

Nadia’s journey

profile | eastlife

It’s been more than two years since Nadia Lim was crowned MasterChef New Zealand, but it seems entrepreneurial ambition comes naturally to the wholesome cook. NATALIE BRITTAN caught up with her in between recipes to see how she copes with everything on her plate including her latest project, My Food Bag. Nadia Lim has launched a cookbook and a business, authored hundreds of recipes, worn numerous hats and squeezed in a wedding and honeymoon amongst countless other things in the space of two years.

However, the famous face of food delivery and recipe service, My Food Bag, is not convinced she’s done enough.

“I haven’t done much,” she insists.

“I still want to do way more! I’ve only ticked two or three things off my list.”

This, of course, is not counting the fact that the trained dietician has just completed her second book, Nadia’s Good Food Cookbook. It will be released at the end of the year and follows her first bestselling book, Nadia’s Kitchen.

In the midst of it all, Nadia also has a weekly nutrition column in the New Zealand Herald as well as various other media commitments.

In fact, a month ago things were so busy with the book, My Food Bag, travelling and various food consulting stints that the 27-year-old simply did not have time to cook.

“It didn’t feel right,” says Nadia.

“I had two or three weeks where I did no cooking. I hated that period; I didn’t feel myself. It can stifle creativity.”

Luckily, husband and business partner Carlos Bagrie was there to ensure his willowy wife did not waste away.

“He’s a good cook!” says Nadia, who adds that living in Gulf Harbour means foodie inspiration is just outside their door. “The fishing is good and Carlos is quite the fisherman. We’re good friends with the neighbours and he goes hunting on their farmland.”

Although 40 minutes from My Food Bag headquarters in Ponsonby, this little slice of rural paradise is just what Nadia needs when things become hectic. For the first few months after the launch of My Food www.eastlife.co.nz

Bag, the bubbly brunette was holding the fort with only Carlos by her side.

And those who have had the My Food Bag experience will appreciate this is no mean feat. Nine new recipes have to be produced each week and they are labour-intensive – food has to be weighed and measured, instructions written, photography organised, and the recipe tested.

“It’s been really full on. For four to five weeks I was doing 120 plus hours a week. It almost killed me; my head almost exploded.”

Thankfully, the pressure didn’t last too long. Now Carlos and Nadia have a team of 12 staff, as well as parttimers covering various aspects of the business, with Carlos overseeing marketing and Nadia looking after food.

With the backing of the four other directors – Theresa Gattung, ex-Telecom CEO; Cecilia and James Robinson from Au Pair Link; and Mike Wales from Nosh; it seems the My Food Bag production line is one smooth operation.

‘

I want to get Kiwis to eat better in a fun, vibrant way and change the misconception that healthy food is boring. Healthy eating is freaking delicious!”

Of course, it helps that Nadia felt right at home with the concept. “It was a good fit for me because I’ve been waiting for something that would fit with my ethos.”

The healthy eating advocate even considered starting the business herself a few years back. “I’d thought about it numerous times and even looked into it with a friend from the horticultural industry but she said the logistics side would be huge.”

But not impossible, as Nadia later discovered. She says it all boiled down to the meeting she had with My Food Bag founder Cecilia Robinson and her husband James, just before she and Carlos flew to Europe last year. “It was good timing. If I hadn’t gone to that meeting, it wouldn’t have happened because we were overseas for a month and they wanted to get the ball rolling.”

Not that food-obsessed Nadia needed help getting started. “Food always inspires me. It’s like it talks to me. It’s my friend, it tells me what to do. It says ‘you should put me with that, and I would be really nice with a drizzle of this, or this spice would be nice with me!’ ” Ultimately, My Food Bag is helping Nadia achieve her goal to spread the message of healthy eating.

“I want to encourage Kiwis to eat better in a fun, vibrant way and change the misconception that healthy food is boring. Healthy eating is freaking delicious!”

And it’s not just Nadia raving about My Food Bag, but families too – Nadia’s own family, to be exact.

The gourmet option feeds her brother and parents, despite being only designated for two people – a sign of how generous portions are.

And customers have only good things to say. “Everyone says they’re eating healthier now. We’ve not had a single new customer who’s signed up and not enjoyed it.

“It’s changed their lives and they feel really proud and empowered. We constantly hear wives say that their husbands want to cook instead!”

And as for children and the sweettoothed wondering whether puddings will be in the bag, Nadia says it hasn’t been ruled out.

“We’d love to offer dessert. I do have a bit of a sweet tooth so there’s definitely a good chance of that coming.”

And with such a sweet personality behind the brand, there can only be sweet success in the bag!

• Read about Natalie Brittan’s Food Bag experience on page 53. eastlife | september 2013 |

13

eastlife | award

Watch the Birdie!

A photo capturing a special young girl has received national acclaim and led to a gold award for Bucklands Beach resident and EastLife’s social photographer Carmen Bird. NATALIE BRITTAN zooms in on the story behind the shot.

Carmen Bird had photographed Eva Mitchell hundreds of times, but from the moment she snapped the sick five-year-old in her Starship hospital bed, wearing a tutu and holding her doll, she knew it was special.

Entering the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photographers’ Iris Awards (2013), the photograph was last month awarded the gold award in the photojournalism category – a first for the professional photographer of just three years.

little Cure Kids ambassador who has defied all odds by staying alive for as long as she has.

“Her only chance of a cure was a transplant of several organs but an international team that visited her last year said this is just not possible so Eva has a terminal condition and nobody knows how long she has,” says Carmen.

“I was so pleased. I didn’t really expect it – there are some pretty amazing photographers out there!” says the former Howick College girl.

Reflective of her life, Eva can often be seen injecting, attaching tubes and syringes and placing bandages on her doll Zoe.

However, the image wasn’t just about photographic skill. A good friend of Eva’s mother, Tiff Mitchell, Carmen has a close relationship with Eva and visits her in hospital every week.

Her mother Tiff wrote to Carmen describing how she felt about her photo in a Facebook comment:

“Eva’s so special to me and it’s really cool I have that rapport with her,” she says.

“Long after gastrointestinal failure wins you will have given me so many beautiful moments captured forever to relive time and time again. This picture takes my breath away; you have caught the essence of Eva, of life, of fighting this cruel illness and of the strength she puts into fighting it.

Underneath it all she wants to be like

Born with half a diaphragm, Eva suffers from gastrointestinal failure and has virtually lived in Starship from the time she was born. Every day is a battle for survival for this

all little girls in fairy dresses with babies. Thank you for giving me so much more than you realise and doing it with the honesty, love and fun you show.”

Eva’s story has touched thousands of New Zealanders around the country and Carmen is responsible for managing her Facebook page which has more than 26,000 likes.

“People just love her. She’s such a darling. She has the toughest life of any five year old I know but she is the most inspiring, cheeky, cute, clever, funny and lovable five year old I know. I am so blessed to have Eva and her family as my buddies and photography models!” www.carmenbirdphotography.co.nz www.facebook.com/babyevamitchell

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eastlife | out & about

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Of ‘Biggar’ adventures...

Kiwis may be familiar with Kevin Biggar from the TV1 show, First Crossings. However, before embarking on extreme journeys of New Zealand explorers, the former Howickian had many other rivers (and oceans) to cross, as JON RAWLINSON explains.

How do you wish a man well who’s trekked across Antarctica, rowed the Atlantic and says climbing Everest is on his ‘bucket list’? Despite Kevin Biggar being ‘as seen on TV’, it probably isn’t a good idea to suggest he ‘break a leg!’

Although his sense of adventure has taken him to all corners of New Zealand and beyond for the filming of First Crossings, Kevin says his passion for adventure originally developed at home in Howick.

“Macleans College always had that fantastic aspect, looking out over the Hauraki Gulf. Every day, for five years, I’d look out to the sparkling blue ocean and it certainly had an effect on me.”

Following his school years, Kevin travelled to new heights in the company of Sir Edmund Hillary, when he travelled to Nepal to help build a school for the Himalayan Trust.

“I was just a shy 18 year-old, but the most lasting impression of [Sir Ed] was that he was a normal guy. Hanging out with him was like hanging out with a great uncle. He had a great sense of humour, he loved listening to and telling jokes and playing games.

“There’s a great quote from his book, High Adventure: ‘People do not decide to become extraordinary. They decide to accomplish extraordinary things.’ I think that sums up Sir Ed perfectly.”

In 2003, Kevin teamed up with his future First Crossings’ co-host, Jamie Fitzgerald, for the Trans-Atlantic Rowing Race, undertaking the 5000km voyage between the Canary Islands and Barbados in a plywood dinghy. It was an adventure he later regaled in his book The Oarsome Adventures of a Fat Boy Rower.

Kevin says although relationships during such expeditions, even between best mates, can become strained, there are always ways to lighten the mood.

“The rule is that if we want to give ‘advice’ to the other person then we www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

There’s a great quote from his book, High Adventure: ‘People do not decide to become extraordinary. They decide to accomplish extraordinary things.’ I think that sums up Sir Ed perfectly.”

do it in a fruity German accent: ‘Jamie yew row lyke eine lettle girl! Schnell!’ he laughs.

Another major expedition followed in 2005 when the duo trekked 1200km to the South Pole. Kevin says the feat, which fewer than 50 people had achieved, was tough, but not nearly as difficult as convincing [his] fiancée, now wife, that it was a good idea!

“We spent a lot of time trying to imagine what the hardest parts were going to be and preparing. We knew Antarctica was going to be cold, so we took warm clothes. But then we got there and it was really cold!

“We were trying it the hard way, trekking unsupported. We couldn’t take all the food we needed because we simply couldn’t move the weight.

So we starved ourselves on the way to the Pole. Aside from the intense cold, there were the insanely heavy sleds, the heavily furrowed snow tripping us, crevasses and the

whiteouts – and we still had to walk 1200km and climb 10,000 feet!”

top of Everest, recreating the ultimate first crossing by a New Zealander.

Adventures of late have come thick and fast for Kevin and Jamie. Using equipment and wearing clothing only available at the time of the original crossings, the pair faced many challenges in duplicating the various journeys for their television show.

“That would be a huge achievement.

I trekked to Base Camp once and was horrified at how hostile a place it was.

There was barely enough air to just walk around and it was desperately cold. It’s ridiculously risky too.

“We originally tried wearing space suits, but it didn’t look right!” Kevin quips.

“Documentaries where presenters wear modern gear don’t feel quite right. I think it’s helpful when they experience [the conditions] too.

“So, a big part of our show involves wearing the old clothes, carrying uncomfortable swags, and scrabbling round in ridiculously heavy and impractical hobnail boots!”

Looking to the future, Kevin says he would love to follow Ed’s steps to the

“Some people write it off as a rich man’s midlife crisis, but it’s still a monster climb, and things can go badly wrong. Nevertheless, Everest is definitely on the bucket list!”

While the world may offer many more adventures, Kevin says he still remains a local at heart.

“I’m not sure that you ever really leave Howick,” he says, “your trips into town just last a bit longer!”

See the ‘Win’ page for a chance to secure a copy of Kevin’s latest book, covering his exploits during the filming of First Crossings. eastlife | september 2013 |

17

eastlife | syndication

On track, with Jack Last month EastLife looked at the popularity of harness racing syndication and then attempted to get the low down direct from the horse’s mouth. However, with requests for interviews rebuffed with ‘nays,’ JON RAWLINSON instead went to see a man about a horse.

Long time Howick local, Jack Poppleton is no millionaire but he says his life has been enriched by a personal stake in harness racing.

“I didn’t have lots of money, and buying a horse was too expensive.

But, if there’s 10 or so in a syndicate, many people can afford it,” he says.

Jack has accumulated a fair share of horse sense, particularly since joining syndicates – gallopers in 1975, harness racing in 1988. His passion for horses was first fuelled in his native Yorkshire.

“My grandfather was a bookie, so my love of racing goes back to that. I first went to a racecourse when I was six and made my first bet at 11,” he says.

“I wanted a shilling on a horse, but the bookie wouldn’t give me a ticket, he just didn’t want to be caught out!”

A love of horses is perhaps most important when joining syndicates.

“First of all, people have to be interested in horses,” Jack says. “The main issue is to work out how much you can afford, and it does pay for those starting off to go to a few races and get a feel for it.”

Syndicates have enabled Jack to have more than just a passing interest in racing. However, a third share held in a horse for $2000 (rather than a syndicate, typically including

approximately 20 owners), delivered some of his fondest memories.

Pacer, Facta Non Verba (Deeds, Not Words) won 27 races and half a million dollars, living up to his name.

But it was Facta’s character that made him so unforgettable.

“I’ll never forget, when he was being broken in. His trainer, Mike Berger, would take a spare pair of underpants, because when the horse drew near a bend he would go straight for the fence and stop just inches away!

“Another thing he used to do, when a truck came into the stables to pick up horses for the races, if he wasn’t put aboard, he’d just about kick the stall down. And if he had a strange driver, he would turn around and tip

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18 | eastlife | september 2013

‘

Jack’s most successful syndicate was in ownership of a trotter named Lyell Creek, which he says won approximately 56 races and more than three million dollars.’

the driver right out of the sulkie! I suppose I just liked his spirit, really.”

Jack’s most successful syndicate was in ownership of a trotter named Lyell Creek, which he says won approximately 56 races and more than three million dollars. However, as the syndicate – including roughly 20 people – bought an eighth share in the horse, it didn’t make him a wealthy gent.

Yet, however small the share, Jack says because membership in syndicates adds a little extra interest in the sport, they are well worthwhile.

“Particularly as you get older, it keeps you going,” he says. “And you get to have a good time, a few beers and a chat with nice people from all sorts of different walks of life along the way.”

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interview | eastlife

Back on the saddle with friends Many talk and some walk the walk, but JON RAWLINSON recently discovered that, when it comes to helping those in need, there are a few who answer the call by riding the ride.

The father of three boys began cycling 10 years ago when an Achilles injury put an end to his rowing aspirations.

“I was a competitive rower for many years. I rowed for Saint Kent’s and then at West End Rowing Club where I won titles in different grades.

“Initially I got into cycling to ride with www.eastlife.co.nz

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www.eastlife.co.nz my son, but after the injury it became more of a rehab thing.”

While cycling provided Greg with a means for bonding with his son, Taylor (17), these days he mostly rides with friends.

“Taylor, who’s the middle lad is a mad cyclist. He cycled for Saint Kent’s. I try not to ride with him anymore because he kills me, to be fair!

“As I get a bit longer in the tooth, I’ve found a number of my friends and business colleagues have taken to cycling. There’s certainly a social aspect to it as well as a level of competitive rivalry when we race.”

Greg first took part in Poverty Cycle last year, riding with the team from photocopier company, Ricoh.

“I thought we did quite well last year,” he says. “I’m with them again this year, for my sins! Mike Pollok [managing director of Ricoh New Zealand] is a long time friend and we tend to meet up regularly in Clevedon and go riding there.”

Of course, the road to a better world, which on September 7 will wind its way through Clevedon, is paved with the best of intentions and when the wheels start turning many keen cyclists will be doing their level best to try and keep up... with the Jones!

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“I’ve lived in Howick since I was a little fellow. I’ve recently moved to Point View Drive, but I used to live in Mellons Bay, right on the cusp of all those hills to ride. I ride about 200kms per week, training pretty much every day, either inside or out in the hills.”

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And, in that number, when the cyclists come riding in, will be Mellons Bay resident, Greg Jones.

Greg says the local landscape has provided the perfect training ground during preparations for the race.

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To help break the chain of poverty experienced by millions worldwide, aid and development agency, TEAR Fund, is running a five lap, 20km circuit road relay race. Funds raised from the event will aid in the rescue and rehabilitation of children caught up in human trafficking in Nepal, mothers and babies in India and at risk youth in Auckland.

“I think these events are very important because, in today’s society there are countless worthy causes that don’t receive the recognition or support they need.”

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Breaking the chain is something most cyclists would prefer to avoid, but that’s exactly what riders of the Poverty Cycle Challenge will attempt to do.

“It’s so easy for people to take what they have for granted,” he says, “Participating in an event such as this does offer a reality check, remembering that others might not be so lucky. There are so many people out there who are far worse off than many of us.

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www.stemsfromhome.co.nz eastlife | september 2013 |

19

Win! 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 September 30, 2013. Winners notified by phone or email.

WIN! A DOUBLE PASS TO THE LOST SPRING Soaking in the atmosphere of The Lost Spring, Whitianga is a most enjoyable experience, as EastLife’s Jon Rawlinson reported in last month’s issue. However, a quick dip is not an option for the winners of this prize – an all-day pass to one of Coromandel’s most special (and worst-kept) secrets. Valued at $120, this pass will enable our winners to treat themselves to a day of luxury, swimming in the resort’s thermal pools. Full spa treatments, cocktails and meals are also available at additional cost.

WIN! A CLASSIC MY FOOD BAG Cook up a yummy feed for 4-5 people for 5 nights using premium ingredients, fresh NZ-grown produce, and free-range dairy and meats following nutritionally balanced recipes by celebrity chef, Nadia Lim. The Classic Bag features wholesome, convenient recipes with a twist, and is ideal for busy families who want healthy food and delicious recipes delivered to their door. Simple. Healthy.

Delicious. Valued at $179 www.myfoodbag.co.nz

WIN! DOG TREATS FOR THE FUSSIEST CANINE! New Harrington’s Dog Treats, packed with vitamins and minerals, promise to support your pet’s health ‘naturally’.

Made without artificial flavours, colours or preservatives, they are a great food solution for man’s best friend. Now, thanks to Harrington’s, EastLife has five prize packs each containing four packets of the various dog treats to give away. Each prize pack is valued at close to $28 (individual packets of dog treats retail at $6.99 each), a great way to cheer up your doggy’s day!

WIN! STAMFORD PLAZA HIGH TEA FOR FOUR Sibling contestants Jake and Elle Harrison from the last series of My Kitchen Rules have devised a new, colourful and creative high tea menu at the Stamford Plaza which will run from September 14 until just prior to Christmas (see story page 52). The good news is, thanks to Stamford Plaza management, Eastlife has two fabulous high tea prizes up for grabs. Each prize package is a Jake and Elleinspired high tea for four people at Stamford Plaza in Auckland’s CBD – what a way to enjoy a special celebration. So, don’t waste a minute, enter the draw for one of these delicious prizes valued at $156 each.

WIN! A STEAMPUNK NECKLACE Do you have the time? FunkyGlam Jewellery sure does... time to create handcrafted treasures, that is! This unique pendant from Funky’s Steampunk fashion range is up for grabs – perfect for women who love to clock up the latest looks; enter the draw today and view our Essentials page for more information.

WIN! FIRST CROSSINGS BY KEVIN BIGGAR Kevin and Jamie don’t just take the same routes, they wear the same clothes, use the same gear and try the same food as early Kiwi explorers. While fascinating, this approach leads the pair to uncomfortable and even death-defying situations in their popular TV show, First Crossings. Now, the TV presenters, explorers and authors present a new book bringing their exploits to the printed page. See page 17 for EastLife’s recent interview with former Howickian, Kevin Biggar. First Crossings – Historic NZ adventures brought to life,

by Kevin Biggar and Jamie Fitzgerald. Published by Random House New Zealand. RRP $45.00.

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 20 | eastlife | september 2013

www.eastlife.co.nz

lifestyle Advertising down to a tea!

Success is seldom measured by a cup half empty or a cup half full and no one knows that better than the owners of Dilmah Tea where the cup overflows...with tea so fine it claims 30 percent of the New Zealand market. Importantly, Howickian, Daron Curtiss’ clever advertising skills have contributed to that success as HELEN PERRY discovered.

Those now famous words, “do try it” have become synonymous with Merrill Fernando, the founder and public face of Dilmah Tea.

my good fellow’,” was Daron’s reply and therein lay the start of a business relationship which today has its professional and its personal side.

There will be few New Zealanders who have not seen and heard this quiet, dignified man issue those words a hundred times on their TV screens, but there will be more than a few who have no idea that the line came from local ad man, Daron Curtiss, who has worked with Merrill and Dilmah since 1994.

“From the first I was struck by Merrill’s unwavering passion not just about sales and dollars earned but for the importance of quality, tradition and for discussing his tea in detail.

Now, as the tea company celebrates its diamond jubilee, Daron, too, can be proud that a small Auckland advertising company can claim to be part of the Dilmah success story.

It all came about nearly 20 years ago when his company, originally Waves Communication, now Curtiss & Spence, was on a roll with local and international clients such as the Tourist Hotel Corporation, Audi, Go Holidays and more.

“Then, out of the blue came a call I first thought to be a prank: ‘hello, my name is Merrill Fernando do you do good advertising?’ ‘Of course, I do,

“During those early discussions and during my first visit to Sri Lanka, Merrill’s repeated phrase was, ‘you must try it’. From there I developed the slogan, ‘do try it.’

But convincing Merrill to become the face of his brand was another thing.

It took some doing especially as Sri Lankan singer, Kamahl, already filled that role. Eventually the tea maker was persuaded but then came the coaching to slow down his delivery and to pitch his voice lower, thus capturing the true essence of the man.

“I was always confident we had a living legend in the making but from the outset I was under no illusion that if it didn’t work, I was out,” Daron says.

– continued overleaf

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | september 2013 |

21

eastlife | lifestyle

From previous page “Merrill is a caring, compassionate man but he is also a trader – tough but honest. He told me straight out, if the campaign failed he would get someone else. Obviously I was keen to succeed.”

The rest, we all would say, is history.

Since then Daron has remained involved with Dilmah’s New Zealand advertising campaign but there’s more to this ad man than just tea.

He says he doesn’t fit the image of a typical advertising executive.

“I’m not the sort to be seen at every social occasion in town. I set my style a long time ago and it’s not all about my image. To me the client is the hero, not the advertising agency although job success obviously gives me great satisfaction.”

Though many assignments have given Daron pleasure, he says apart from Dilmah, a contract which brought three companies, Wishart, Whirl-Wide and Alpine Helicopters

under one banner – The Helicopter Line – was particularly satisfying.

Strangely, his entry into advertising was more by accident than design and you could say there were gremlins in his career works!

Originally from Gisborne, Daron, like many young men of the ’60s, was into the ‘new age’ music sparked by the rise of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and other great British bands.

A guitarist, he was invited to play lead with Howick band, The Gremlins, (started by Glyn Tucker who still lives locally). Daron headed north then, for several years, enjoyed the music scene touring the country and playing

‘

I was always confident we had a living legend in the making but from the outset I was under no illusion that if it didn’t work, I was out.”

at local dances and clubs. When the group finally disbanded, he had to think seriously about the future.

“I was talking to Bob Kerridge [now executive director of the SPCA Auckland] who had his own advertising agency. He suggested I go into advertising. I went for it and, as a result, Bob taught me everything I know. Waves, launched in 1979,

and Curtiss & Spence was a natural progression.”

Having retained many of his original clients despite the world’s changing fortunes, Daron also retains his ardour for work and his gift for creativity.

“I just can’t imagine retirement and I admit I would sorely miss working with the Fernando family especially overseeing this ‘changing of the guard’ campaign and seeing Merrill’s sons Dilhan and Malik making their mark in the family business.”

And, of course, Daron says in his line of work there’s nothing quite like a cup of tea when the pressure’s on, a Dilmah cup of tea!

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travel | eastlife

It’s all about the journey Chris Lyons – Director and Tour Host, World Journeys If group travel conjures up images of hordes of tourists following a guide’s upheld umbrella, think again!

Small group travel today can be the ultimate way to travel to some of the world’s most exciting, challenging and exotic countries.

I am in the enviable position of hosting small groups of Kiwi travellers each year to the likes of South America and Africa, and can honestly say it’s the way to go!

You may not have friends who share your particular ‘bucket list’ of travel desires, but don’t like travelling alone. Perhaps tackling a foreign language is too daunting, or you simply don’t have the energy to do it all yourself.

Booking a small group tour takes care of all of that. There is company to share the experiences with, all the nitty gritty details are taken care of by someone else, and your host or escort is there to smooth the way should anything unexpected happen.

World Journeys creates and operates over 20 small group tours each year, selecting our most-loved destinations such as the game parks of East Africa, the colours and culture of India, and the epic ports of the Mediterranean.

‘

Travel is all about the journey, but it’s also about sharing the experience, and that’s the beauty of travelling with a group.”

popular, as is Canada and Alaska, with its soaring Rocky Mountains and rustic coastal villages.

New for 2014 is a ‘Hawaii, Oregon and Washington’ itinerary, enjoying stopovers in Hawaii, a small ship cruise on the beautiful Columbia and Snake Rivers, and tastings at Oregon’s famed boutique vineyards and breweries.

Some of these journeys are based around a cruise, often including some unique touring at either end, such as a sojourn at Lake Como.

Food and wine is always a highlight of our travel, and we often include a farewell dinner at a ‘hidden gem’ favourite restaurant enjoyed only by those ‘in the know’.

Other journeys take roads less travelled, such as our tour through Japan. The Mediterranean is ever

Most of all, I love the conviviality of travelling in, and hosting, a small group. There’s always company if

you want it, or time to go and do your own thing every now and then.

And every person brings something to the mix. There may be a keen photographer in the group who you can follow to get the best shots, or a fashionista who will call upon my haggling skills to buy jewellery or textiles in the markets.

Many life-long friendships have been forged on tour, and many return again

Journeys 2014

to travel with us in subsequent years.

Travel is all about the journey, but it’s also about sharing the experience, and that’s the beauty of travelling with a group.

We do hope you can join us at the launch of our new Journeys 2014 brochure, in Ponsonby on September 10 – just give us a call for details and to register. Or simply ask your local travel agent for a copy of the brochure.

Journeys 2014 Guaranteed small group hosted

tours

Guaranteed departures, small groups, escorted Africa, South America, Canada, India & more…

Early booking savings!

Travel evening 6pm Tues 10 Sept (call us for details) For a brochure contact your Travel Agent, or World Journeys

(09) 360 7311 www.eastlife.co.nz

E513097

Email. info@worldjourneys.co.nz

EUROPE / THE MEDITER RANEAN / AFRICA / THE MIDDLE EAST / INDIA JAPAN / CANADA & USA / ANTARCTICA / SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA

Web. www.worldjourneys.co.nz eastlife | september 2013 |

23

eastlife | travel

cruising Glennis Kneale is definitely a local girl. She has lived and worked in Howick for many years, her local knowledge helping her to understand client needs.

Having recently joined the United Travel Manukau team as Cruise Specialist, Glennis is a CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) agent.

With 35 years in the industry, she has travelled extensively and spent many enjoyable hours on board some fabulous ships.

“Cruising is a chance to get away from everyday life; to be indulged and pampered with great food and entertainment,” she says.

Glennis made the move to United Travel because the company is customer-focused and firmly believes that service is the key. The team at United consists of Bruce Arnold (owner/operator), Kay McKirdy, Ruwani Amarasinghe, Michele Slipper, Janeane Park and Margaret Wilson (broker).

WIN with

Discovering Vanuatu The Pacific Islands have long provided regular holiday destinations for REAY NEBEN but this year she visited Vanuatu for the first time and was enamoured by the relaxed charm of this island escape.

My love affair with Fiji has been sorely threatened since visiting Vanuatu for the first time.

made this sunny, warm day, perfect.

We were picked up at the airport by the resort shuttle and taken on about a half hour drive up huge hills with only the hint of sea in the distance before arriving at our beautiful resort, The Havannah.

Our friends had the villa next door but because of the intense privacy we had two choices for contacting each other – phone or walk around a wall of the pool. A resort for adults only, there were just 15 villas, spa and as many activities as guests required.

There we were met by our hosts, Frederick and Victoria Maclean and sat down in the outside courtyard with cool towels and refreshing fruit drinks. Best of all was the view from where we sat. It looked right out over the harbour to the bay entrance – just magnificent.

Every day Frederick tried to entice us into the various snorkelling or diving trips on offer but the thought of sunshine, lounger, our own private part of the pool and, of course, a good book meant the four of us were content to laze in our own patch of paradise.

We were then taken to our villa, one of five with its own poolside entry. Two loungers, a large double daybed in the shade and then just three or four steps into the pool

We did, however go out on one sunset cruise which left from the little jetty by the outdoor dining area. Looking back at the resort, tucked around the golden beach,

I must say, after our first day, most of the staff addressed us by name making the four of us feel very special. Staff members at The Havannah were locals and their happy, smiling faces greeted us in the dining room every time we sat down to a gourmet meal – three times a day. The menus were written

Cruise Cunard’s 3 Queens 2014

INDEPENDENT PAKURANGA

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VOTE

*Conditions. Conditions. Sales end 30 Nov 2013. Flying Qantas & partner airlines in Economy class from Auckland. Based on oceanview stateroom category ED. Prices per person in NZD & subject to availability. Strict deposit, payment, cancellation fees & conditions apply. Valid for new bookings, correct at the time of printing & are subject to change without notice. Events beyond our control such as currency fluctuations may result in price variations. Product is supplied by suppliers with their own terms & conditions, please contact us. UT1614

United Travel Manukau (09) 262 1829 652 Great South Road 53506

24 | eastlife | september 2013

Throughout our stay it was the little things that endeared us to the resort. For example, every night one of the housekeeping ladies left a handwritten message addressed to us personally together with our towels folded in the shape of animals.

ROWAN HEGLEY ROWAN

per person, twin share.

Flight departs Auckland 15 May 2014.

Three voyages, one ultimate holiday.

www.eastlife.co.nz

we realised just how lucky we were to find this jewel. Then, looking out to the harbour entrance, the sunset was amazing. We saw this view every night from our villa but on the water, it was extra special.

VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE

travel | eastlife Bigfala Kaikai / Main Courses Titi blo faol wetem blu chis, apol sos mo potato kratin Chicken breast with a blue cheese sauce, glazed apples, gratin potatoes Nie blong sip sip oli kukum wetem wain mo karot sos I go wetem potato oli smashem Lamb shanks in red wine and carrot sauce, mashed potato

in both English and Pidgin English which we had fun trying to translate.

While we seldom strayed far from The Havannah we did learn that a new Italian restaurant has been built close by and had just opened the week we were there. So, one evening we arranged to be picked up and taken to try the delights of Shanti Havannah. There we were met by the owner Francesca and enjoyed a truly Italian meal. The night out was lovely.

We also headed into Port Vila on one occasion and spent the time looking at the shops as well as some of the tourist spots. For the young there was plenty to do but for us (a little more on the mature side) The Havannah was all we needed.

However, one morning after a discussion at breakfast, we decided that a bit of exercise really was

needed so, we headed along a path leading to the local village. We were told it was a 15 minute walk but in reality, it was more like half an hour.

As we approached the village we were met by one of the girls from the resort who recognised us and then proudly took us in hand and showed us around.

Edna was extremely proud and rightly so as the village was well kept and organised with schools and, surprisingly, four different churches.

The resort was the main employer of locals.

Interestingly, I didn’t know until this holiday that during the Second World War, Port Havannah was strategically the second most important harbour for the American allies after Pearl Harbour, with the New Zealand, Australian, and US Navy based there.

At a small village museum, local man Ernest had collected all kinds of memorabilia found around the harbour. Among those he showed us was a huge collection of coca cola bottles dated back to during the war – fascinating.

From left; an excerpt from the dual English/Pidgin menu; sunset on the sea; the view from our villa.

All too soon it was time to leave this Eden and head back to the real cold world of Auckland and that’s left me dreaming about Vanuatu in the sun.

Howick ’s Cruising Specialists Come in store & ask our cruising experts all those questions you have about this fantastic way to see the world!

If you are looking for a holiday that offers great value for money, plenty of time for relaxation and is completely hassle-free, then consider navigating the world on a cruise holiday.

Cruiseabout consultants have travelled the globe, so they understand the importance of booking the perfect holiday and can offer advice on everything, from finding cruises that suits your needs to finding extra arrangements, making your holiday a complete package.

Plus, they have access to all of the latest cruise deals, discounts and savings in the travel industry, which guarantees you’re getting the best price available.

At Cruiseabout…

Where there is a river or an ocean, we can find the perfect cruise to suit anyone, retired travellers, singles, couples or families...

We’re experts in all types of cruising: River cruises Family cruises Luxury cruises Ocean cruises Adventure & expedition cruises

We can help with all your travel needs: Cruises Flights Hotels Tours Travel Insurance and more

Cruiseabout Howick 16 Moore Street, Howick www.eastlife.co.nz

0800 224 694 www.cruiseabout.co.nz eastlife | september 2013 |

25

*Sail FREE Terms & Conditions: Applies to genuine cruise quotes from all cruise lines and registered travel agencies and websites. Quote must be in writing and must be presented to us prior to booking. Fare must be available and able to be booked by New Zealand passport holders and New Zealand residents when you bring it to us. Fares available due to membership of a group or corporate entity or subscription to a closed group are excluded. Quote must be for same dates and cabin category. We will beat price by minimum $1. For full terms and conditions see www.cruiseabout.co.nz/sail-free CAH1126724

E50116

eastlife | essentials

Essentials Personal and household essentials are many and varied. 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.

THE SECRET’S OUT...

Join the curl revolution and get the curls you’ve always wanted, with the new VS Sassoon Curl Secret™. So, how does it work? Well, hair goes in, curl comes out. It’s that simple! RRP $249.99

WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM! Whether you’re an avid foodie or just want to spoil your family and friends with something a little special for dessert, the possibilities are endless with the all-new Ice Cream & Yoghurt Maker from Russell Hobbs. Unlike other products on the market it features a built-in compressor cooling system that chills your creations in an hour or less, so there’s minimum waiting time. It also features an automatic “keep cool” function, keeping your treats chilled while you clean up. This versatile machine produces 1.5L of delicious frozen dessert and 110 ice cubes. For yoghurt lovers, it also heats up to 42°C to create the perfect consistency of smooth yoghurt from scratch. RRP $549.99

‘

Win or lose, we go shopping after the election.”

– Imelda Marcos

DRINK IN WARHOL-INSPIRED LABELS As part of its 150th anniversary this year, Perrier has released limited edition bottles inspired by pop artist Andy Warhol who produced a series of works featuring the sparkling water brand in 1983. Based on the original prints Warhol created in the 80s, these exclusive bottles feature four different label designs with colourful backgrounds and paint effects in his signature style. Look for the limited edition Perrier Andy Warhol bottles, available in 750ml and 330ml sizes, at participating supermarkets, bars and restaurants nationwide.

NEW FRAGRANT CANDLES ECOYA have just released two new Limited Edition fragrances into their collection; Black Tulip & Kakadu Plum and Kowhai & Cedarwood. The beautiful new fragrances were created by world-renowned perfumer and ECOYA nose, Isaac Sinclair. They draw inspiration from the rich heritage of the unique Australasian flora. Each candle has an 80 hour burn time and is presented in an eye-catching coloured box of Kowhai blossom yellow and plum purple.

RRP $49.95 each

26 | eastlife | september 2013

LIMITED EDITION SILK & STEEL FOR MOOI A collaboration by New Zealand designers Mooi and Silk & Steel has produced a stunning collection of handmade bags incorporating semiprecious gemstones and charms.

RRP $275 www.eastlife.co.nz

essentials | eastlife

EYEING UP OAKLEY JUST BEACHY Forget about lugging around those old, heavy beach towels this summer.

Why? Because Ottoloom towels are super absorbent, light weight, soft, quick-drying and, most importantly, don’t hold sand due to their flat weave.

They are hand-made by families in southern Turkey who have weaved for centuries and each family weaves a specific style on their own traditional wooden loom. So, this means every towel you buy can be traced back to its maker. How cool is that! The towels use 100% GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified cotton or linen, and are finished with natural vegetable dyes. Prices range from $49.95 - $64.95 for organic cotton and $99 for natural linen. www.ottoloom.co.nz

Keep your eyes protected with the latest offering from Oakley.

FROGSKINS® LX combines classic cool with the comfort of a handmade frame honed from lightweight yet durable acetate. Sculpturally integrated hinge mechanisms give it a modern touch, and as an added plus all lenses are made of pure Plutonite® that filters out 100% of all UV, not just UVA and UVB. Polarised RRP$269.95 & Non Polarised RRP$209.95

DECOR FOR DAD’S OFFICE Check out these stunning Sheyne Tuffrey limited edition prints, original art for the unique bloke @ Frames Today, Pakuranga

DEFUSE IT

WELL-OILED WITH WELEDA Weleda’s Wild Rose Body Oil is the perfect skin pick-me-up to prepare your skin for the warmer and more skin-revealing weather. Ideal for everyday use and all skin types, it’s bursting with a subtle composition of antioxidant-rich plant oils including organic Macadamia Oil and Jojoba Oil. These oils work together to revitalise the skin’s natural elasticity and suppleness while providing skin with protection from moisture loss and helping to optimise absorption.

‘

Designed to delicately and safely fragrance your home, this beautiful room diffuser from Banks & Co is 150 mls of pure indulgence. Just leave the reeds in the bottle and flip every few days to refresh and waft delicate fragrance throughout your living space. Hibiscus Flower Room Diffuser RRP $33.35

ONE TO WATCH...

Money doesn’t bring happiness – that’s why I just went shopping to get rid of it all.”

– Anon

www.eastlife.co.nz

These days, particularly when juggling families and careers, it’s often hard for busy women to find time. Fortunately, one Christchurch jeweller has actually saved time... in a pendant!

With modern design combined with eternal elegance, FunkyGlam Jewellery’s Steampunk pendant range features unique pieces lovingly handcrafted in New Zealand. Retailing for $65-85, the range is available from www.funkyglam.co.nz. View our Win page to go into the draw for one of these timeless time pieces. eastlife | september 2013 |

27

, h t l a e H beauty

&FASHION

Well spotted If you’re looking for a fun, feminine trend this season then Polka Dots are for you. This classic print really has stood the test of time and it’s never been easier to be Well Spotted this season.

➍

➌ ➋

➏

➊

➎

1. Sideline Shirt RRP $300, Katherine Pants RRP $280, Twenty Seven Names 2. Urban Precinct Shirt, Farmers RRP $44.95 3. Spot Cardi, Urban Precinct RRP $49.99 4. Blair with Glitterbug and Pink Cheetah side, Saben RRP $380 5. Boardroom, Trelise Cooper RRP $399 6. Madonna Truth or Dare, Hannah’s RRP $179.95 7. Beauty Spots Tunic, Trelise Cooper RRP $399 8. Spot Dress, State of Grace RRP $429

➐

➑

EFTJHOFS DBTVBM FTTFOUJBM GBTIJPO TJ[FT +

spring collections arriving now

Newmarket Auck also Wellington Lower Hutt Auckland Christchurch

28 | eastlife | september 2013

E510090

www.eastlife.co.nz

fashion | eastlife

Style radar

Be striking this Summer

Repertoire’s Style Director, MEGHAN MAHER, tells EastLife about the one piece which women should absolutely have in their wardrobe this winter.

Q:

I have heard that wearing black can make you appear slimmer.

Can anyone wear the colour black?

wrinkles on the face and can make a light skin look paler.

A: Black is fabulous, it is a

My recommendation if you have medium to light skin is to wear black on your lower body and lighter colours on your upper body. By wearing low necklines and showing lots of your décolletage you also keep the colour as far away from your face as possible.

great neutral that can effortlessly tie a wardrobe together. It is safe, sophisticated, chic, elegant and powerful.

Dark colours recede making the area it is worn on appear smaller. So yes in comparison to light and bright colours dark colours, especially black, can make you appear slimmer.

Unfortunately black is not easily worn by everyone especially when it is placed near the face. Black causes shadows to settle into lines and

I recommend adding more depth to your makeup, particularly stronger eye definition and lip colour.

Colourful scarves and jewellery are an easy way to break up the effects of black against your face. Colourful scarves are a key accessory this summer - so invest and enjoy!

EMBRACE SEASONS OF SUN, FUN AND SOCIALISING

E510058

In celebration of Scandinavia’s lustrous summer beauty, new season shoes from footwear brand ECCO® have been created on a palette of sun-faded pastels, strong bold hues and earthy rough tones to make feet the focal point of every social event.

Northern Light embraces relaxed elegance; the Clean Cut collection pays homage to the retro fashion eras of yesteryear; Rebel Nature caters to rebellious types whose style juxtaposes rough and dirty with a soft, natural touch.

Inspired by window-shopping on vintage bicycles, forest walks and windy coastlines, the Northern Light collection is all about sunfaded pastels such as white, rose, emerald and dusty grey, coupled with hand-made detailing making this a fabulous range for men and women.

If retro fashion is your idea of footwear heaven, ECCO®’s Clean Cut collection is the ultimate style reference to the 1950s and 60s – footwear that represents a www.eastlife.co.nz

funky yet polished elegance, with a sophisticated edge.

NEW ZEALAND FASHION ONLINE

Taking inspiration from the Pan Am époque, the glamorous world of pilots and flight attendants, pillbox hats, pencil skirts and waist-cut jackets of the 50s, this range follows through to the hippies of the swinging 60s, reflected in bright, unapologetic colours and tones.

ECCO®’s Rebel Nature collection pays tribute to the forces of nature, its rustic edge, with references to work wear and handcrafted elements, lending an industrial vintage angle. It features strong hues of cognac, dark clay, and black.

This new season collection from ECCO® really celebrates the fun that can be had with footwear without having to compromise on quality or comfort.

E513023-V4 E513023-V4

ECCO®’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection is defined by three key trends; Northern Light, Clean Cut and Rebel Nature.

NEW ZEALAND FASHION ONLINE

WWW.FASHIONZ.CO.NZ eastlife | september 2013 | 29 QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

eastlife || fashion fashion eastlife

Spring into

colour

DAVID POND • LOOBIE’S STORY • SILLS =:OB= IHG= EHH;B>ÃL LMHKR LBEEL PAULA RYAN • OBI • MEREDITH • REDHEAD I:NE: KR:G H;B F>K>=BMA K>=A>:= ARTSTYLE • SIZES 8-18 :KMLMRE> LBS>L 1&*1

colour

Fun spring/summer styles ?ng likbg`(lnff^k lmre^l to brighten your wardrobe mh [kb`am^g rhnk pZk]kh[^ Layby now!

E:R;R GHP

➊ ➊

open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm Hi^g Fhg&?kb 2',)Zf&.if% LZm *)Zf&-if

114 Main Highway, Ellerslie. Ia .02 ,.,.

Ph 579 3535 **- FZbg Ab`apZr% >ee^kleb^'

The easiest way to brighten up your The easiest way to brighten up your wardrobe is investing in accessories wardrobe is investing in accessories featuring favourite colours. Nothing featuring favourite colours. Nothing lifts those darker hues like a vibrant lifts those darker hues like a vibrant red or a pop of blue. Use accessories red or a pop of blue. use accessories to bring your outfit together and to bring your outfit together and update your look in between seasons. update your look in between seasons.

E510067-v4 E510067-v4

➋

Add a splash of colour!

E510055

➌ 1. Kardashian Kollection rrP $69.99 1. Kardashian Kollection RRP $69.99 2. Kagi Scarlet combo rrP $686 2. Kagi Scarlet Combo RRP $686 3.

3. Hayley in Flame, Number one Shoes ayley in Flame, Number One Shoes rrP $59.99 RRP $59.99 4. Scarf loobie’s Story rrP $99 4. Scarf Loobie’s Story RRP $99

➍

Howick | 52 Picton St | www.jeanjones.co.nz |

➊

DESIGN STORE Smart Smart Gifts Gifts & & Gorgeous Gorgeous Things Things

WHITFORD WHITFORD VILLAGE VILLAGE Phone Phone 530-9333.

530-9333. OPEN OPEN 7 7 DAYS DAYS

E513061-v2 E513061-v2

Clothing: Clothing: San San Cerre Cerre -- SpencerLacy SpencerLacy -- Brave Brave & & True True Interiors: Interiors: Citta Citta -- Maytime Maytime -- French French Country Country -C.C. C.C. Interiors Interiors For For Him: Him: God God Jocks Jocks -- Triumph Triumph & & Disaster Disaster Jewellery: Jewellery: Hayley Hayley Inder Inder -- Fabienne Fabienne -- Stilen Stilen -Four Four Corners Corners Accessories: Accessories: Saben Saben -- Mooi Mooi & & Hermes Hermes Bags Bags Scarves Gloves Trouser Scarves - Gloves - Trouser Socks Socks

1.

1. B Burberry Metal urberry Metal Frames, Frames, Sunglass Hut Sunglass Hut rrP $435 RRP $435 2. riley Blue 2. Riley Blue Bucket, Saben Bucket, Saben rrP $430 RRP $430 3.

3. S Scarf loobie’s carf Loobie’s Story rrP $149 Story RRP $149 4. Kagi Turquoise 4. Kagi Turquoise combo rrP $273 Combo RRP $273

➋ ➋

➍ ➍ ➌ ➌

YOURS S173 Pakuranga Plaza 576 3818 S173 Pakuranga Plaza 576 3818 Meadowbank Shopping Centre 521 6188 Meadowbank Shopping Centre 521 6188

30 | eastlife | september 2013 30 | eastlife | september 2013

TRULY collection collection

E510131

E510131

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

beauty | eastlife

120mins

Normally $194

Special at $139*

Give Dad a special treat

Heaven & Wellness

• One hour of Bliss Reflexology • Followed by a one-hour aromatherapy massage • Warm herbal ball applied to relieve joint stiffness and pain in parts of your body, especially the shoulders, wrists, knees and ankles, also helps your skin look younger

Lipstick on your...

top teeth!

If you love wearing a bold lip colour but you don’t love the way it will, more often than not, end up on your teeth then knowing how to give lip the stick is essential!

There’s nothing more embarrassing than discovering lipstick smeared across your ‘pearly whites’, especially after you’ve been chatting to someone important and you have been totally unaware of your colourful grin.

it into some petroleum jelly and rub over your front teeth. This will form a barrier and prevent colour sticking to your teeth. Perfect!

And remember if you’re out and about and do notice someone else with lipstick on their teeth let them know. They may be embarrassed at first but they will end up loving you for your honesty. Honestly!

After applying lipstick blot your lips.

Then, using a cotton bud, remove any lipstick that’s made its way onto your teeth. Once this is done, take the other end of the cotton bud and dip

New key ingredients include hyaluronic acid (helps skin hold onto www.eastlife.co.nz

E122204-v5

SHOPONLINE www.beautybible.co.nz Your favourite brands online including

E513015

QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

September Special FAMOUS COSMEDIX MEDICAL SKINCARE TIMELESS PEEL

Dramatically different moisturising makeover

The Clinique team has spent six and a half years getting the new formula just right, and their mission? To provide barrier strength and boost the moisturising power of the original formula.

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 180 Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga. Ph: 577 2998.

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This nifty trick is used by celebrities and it’s a goody.

So, how does one avoid this beauty blunder? Well, here’s a ‘most know’ beauty tip to share.

Forty five years ago Clinique introduced its iconic, Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, to the world and even though it has been a top-seller, it was decided to go ahead and give this little wonder product a makeover.

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moisture), glycerine (attracts moisture to the skin) and urea, a naturally occurring moisturiser. So, mission accomplished!

But, before anyone thinks this new formula will affect everything loved about the original product, think again.

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The world-wide popularity of this amazing peel comes down to outstanding results and the lack of down time in using the product.

Dramatically reducing visible signs of aging, Cosmedix Timeless peel contains 30% chirally-corrected L-Retinol A to generate immense activity in the skin. This enormously effective deep peel works to restore growth of healthy, young skin cells, increase cell turnover and remove layers of dead skin. Timeless peel also increases the skin’s moisture level to give an age-defying, smooth textured complexion and has achieved incredible results in acne. Down period is minimal and can be done in your lunch hour. It works in the skin for up to a month and can be repeated every two to three weeks and for best results a course of three treatments is recommended.

*One treatment per person. Only available to new clients.

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5 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga, East Auckland. Ph 576 1550. info@aboutskin.co.nz • www.aboutskin.co.nz eastlife | september 2013 |

31

eastlife | health & beauty

Motivation to succeed Olly Coffey is the National PT Manager for Jetts Fitness New Zealand. He is a REPS-registered Skills Active Assessor and plays an important role in ensuring our personal trainers are fully equipped to meet the diverse needs of all Jetts members.

Tracking fitness progress as you improve is a fantastic way to stay motivated. You feel immense satisfaction as small milestones are achieved.

Very often, your ultimate goal feels like a distant dream and it is hard to imagine what it will feel like when you actually get there. Experiencing milestone successes along the way will help maintain your momentum.

Some simple guidelines when choosing a goal: • Choose a goal, which you can measure.

• Break down your goal into shortterm goals.

• Choose a range of measures in

order to track progress.

In weight loss, for example, the ultimate goal is likely to be based on how much weight you lose.

Realistically, a goal of 5kg would take up to 10 weeks. This is a long time to stay motivated.

By breaking this down into five 2 week blocks, you will be faced with losing 1kg in 2-weeks, this seems less intimidating and more realistic.

Aim to use more than one measure.

Why are you trying to lose weight? Is it more about how you want to look rather than how much you want to weigh?

‘

Experiencing milestone successes along the way will help maintain your momentum.”

any other area, where you would like to see change. Then by monitoring these circumferences, you can see if your body is changing shape.

Also monitor practical goals such as how many times you exercise each week. This allows you to accurately monitor your success, and will help you to stay motivated, even if the scale tells you otherwise.

You could measure the circumference around your middle, your hips and

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32 | eastlife | september 2013

*The mibody challenge and the joining offer is not available at new or opening clubs. Joining fees and ongoing membership fees apply. Jetts terms and conditions are available at www.jetts.co.nz.Terms and conditions for the mibody challenge can be found at www.mibodycoach.com/mibodychallenge-terms E510052

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health | eastlife

Blue September BEAT PROSTATE CANCER Facing up to bad health news is never easy but everyone knows regular medical checks can result in early detection and prevent the worst outcome.

But do we always do what we know is best? No! And some of the worst offenders are those menfolk who find the issue of prostate cancer difficult to broach.

So, this month is all about guys who want to stop avoiding the issue and get serious about confronting prostate cancer. Yes, it’s Blue September, the nationwide awareness campaign the Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ runs the entire month.

Designed to raise prostate cancer awareness and promote early detection, Blue September delivers serious messages about prostate cancer in a fun way with high profile ambassadors.

Every Friday during Blue September is Blue Friday when friends, family,

businesses, clubs and other groups are encouraged to go blue – paint your face blue, wear blue and run a fundraiser or awareness event.

Register or check out other blue events at www.blueseptember.org.nz But, most importantly, get tested! If you’re over 40 ask your doctor for a PSA blood test – it may save your life. Remember, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand men and the figures make grim reading: • One in 10 will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime!

• More than 550 New Zealand men per year are dying from prostate cancer

that from the age of 50 men should consider being checked annually for prostate cancer by both the PSA blood test AND digital rectal examination (DRE).

So if this is something you’ve been avoiding the first step is to see your GP – it could be a life-saving decision.

Secondly, you can text ‘BLUE’ to 4847 and donate $3 (active until November 19, 2013) or make an online donation at www.blueseptember.org.nz All funds raised from Blue September go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ, a registered charity which

receives no government funding.

Part of the foundation’s role involves supporting research and all funds raised in New Zealand stay in New Zealand. Donations here are used for: • Providing support via the 0800 4 PROSTATE helpline • Educating the public about prostate and testicular cancer • Funding medical research of prostate and testicular cancer This is too big an issue to ignore so make Blue September 2013 the year to help avoid a senseless death.

Yet, many of these deaths could be prevented by early detection and healthy lifestyle choices.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation encourages all men over 40 to have that annual prostate check and also recommends

MARINA PLASTIC SURGERY “High quality surgery” Martin Rees Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive & Hand Surgeon

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33

eastlife | health

AS� LESLEY

Bay Audiology’s Lesley Hindmarsh answers your hearing health questions

“What is that ringing sound in my ears?”

Answer: Ringing in your ears, or Tinnitus, affects most people at some time. It is a noise which is heard in your head or ears, but which doesn’t come from an outside source. It can be described as a ringing, buzzing or hissing sound, waves, or cicadas. It can be faint or loud, occasional or constant, steady or pulsing, and range from not bothersome to very annoying. It is often noticed more at night or in when you are somewhere very quiet, and can be more of a problem when you are tired or stressed.

What causes Tinnitus? A lot of the time, Tinnitus is linked with hearing loss; in fact, around 80% of people with Tinnitus also have some hearing loss! Hearing loss changes the on and off information being sent between the ears and the hearing centres of the brain, so we end up with too much on and not enough off. For some people, the brain simply ignores this imbalance, but for other people, this mismatch of on/off is picked up as an unknown sound to which the brain pays attention. This kicks off a stress response in the body which makes tinnitus become more and more noticeable.

While there are no instant cures for tinnitus, there are a number of effective options to help deal with it. Over time, the brain can ‘tune out’ the sound of Tinnitus in much the same way that a person living next to a train track can tune out the sound of the trains going past.

We can help this process by changing and improving the sound going into your ears with hearing aids and sound therapy.

If you are dealing with annoying Tinnitus, you should come and see one of our Audiologists, who are trained in tinnitus management. We can then talk to you about what may be causing your Tinnitus and work out the best treatment plan for you.

If you would like to know more, simply phone Bay Audiology on 09 534 0944 to book a free initial appointment. We have solutions to suit individual needs, lifestyles and budgets.

Lesley Hindmarsh is an experienced Audiologist at Bay Audiology’s Howick clinic. Bay Audiology has clinics throughout Auckland, including Howick, Pakuranga, St Heliers, Mt Eden and Manukau.

Be happy...

The Dalai Lama said happiness is not something ready-made, it comes from your own actions but often in seeking happiness our actions take us on a course too difficult.

For those trying hard to manufacture happiness by emulating celebrities such as Kate Moss, Angelina Jolie or, perhaps, Taylor Swift then a new book by internationally-acclaimed New Zealand spiritual author Marnie McDermott could relieve the pressure of living up to unrealistic goals.

Beyond Happpiness: The 12 Principles of Enduring Bliss is designed to help Kiwi females find inner peace without comparing themselves to A-Listers who make juggling many demanding roles appear easy.

McDermott’s US award-winning memoir, covering her 12 guiding principles of how to achieve happiness, is based on a deeply personal account of her own experience.

Inspired to write the self-help book after a devastating house fire saw her lose everything she believed defined her McDermott says the incident was both traumatic and liberating, as it allowed her to simplify her life and discover her true pathway to happiness.

“For a long time I was caught in the ‘manufactured’ happiness trap, where I thought having luxury items would make me happy. This has almost become an epidemic in the western world.

“I obsessed with finding happiness through attaining things, and I would make constant plans about when and how I would be happy – by buying a bigger home, having flasher clothes, or earning more money.”

As she continued to upsize her life McDermott says she just became more miserable.

E513059

Phone 09 534 0944 to book your

FREE hearing check

or visit bayaudiology.co.nz bayaudiology.co.nz 34 | eastlife | september 2013

“I worked my way up to earning six figures and I had the wardrobe full of shoes and clothes, but somehow I still felt empty. I kept convincing myself that if I did and had more I would be happy someday.”

The author, who, today, is also a professional life coach, Reiki master teacher and chartered energy kinesiologist, says she kept adding

distractions to her life, effectively blocking herself from happiness, rather than just pausing to realise it was already within her.

In addition to the terrible house fire which took everything but her life, McDermott endured death, divorce and increasing despair, before unlocking the key to what had seemed like a life-long search for happiness.

“I started to study health and mindbody principles, and discovered that I’d been looking for happiness in all the wrong places. Once I learned to embrace my true self and find balance in my life I was able to find inner peace.”

In Beyond Happiness, McDermott aims to help other New Zealand women battling feelings of desperation.

“It’s the book I wish I’d read 10 years ago, as it would have saved me a decade of my life spent searching for happiness. I wrote it for my former self, and all the other New Zealand women who are struggling to find the key to creating the life they really want.”

‘Beyond Happiness: The 12 Principles of Enduring Bliss’ recently won the US-based 2013: National Indie Excellence Award in the mind, body, spirit category.

• Beyond Happiness: The 12 Principles of Enduring Bliss by Marnie McDermott. Published

by Balboa Press. Available from selected Paper Plus stores, online bookstores such as Amazon.com and the BookDepository.com, via the publisher and directly through www. marniemcdermott.com. www.eastlife.co.nz

health | eastlife

Marnie McDermott’s Five Essential Daily Happiness Habits Breathe Focusing on every breath in and out, take deep, big, relaxing belly breaths.

Depending on how deeply you breathe, you may complete between 5 and 10 cycles of breathing.

Give Thanks Now you’ve cleared your mind, allow that new space to be filled with everything you are thankful for. Take a moment to jot these things down in a journal.

Let Go Take all those people, situations or events that are bothering you and let them all go. Combine this with your breathing for optimum success.

Visualise Tomorrow See it flowing perfectly, see all you have planned unfolding, see yourself

gliding effortlessly through your positive day. Diffuse some mental clutter by making a to-do list if need be.

Give Love Fill your heart and every inch of your being with big, beautiful love. Let it nourish you, allowing it to bring a smile to your heart and your soul.

The 12 Principles of Happiness • Create Perfect Order • Choose Beautiful Thoughts • Express Your Gratitude • Love the Physical You • Nourish Yourself Well • Rejuvenate Your Energy • Free Yourself From Hurt • Choose to be Loved • Make Today Beautiful • Cherish Your Peace • Be True, be You • Live With Purpose

‘

Once I learned to embrace my true self and find balance in my life I was able to find inner peace.”

Marnie McDermott

Ormiston Hospital

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35

eastlife | health

Indulge in carb-free nights GINNY MCARTHUR – Outlook for Life. Ginny is not only a nutritionalist and personal trainer but also a marathon runner and regular on Newstalk ZB.

Will eating carbs at night stop me from losing weight? In a word, “no”.

exercise. That’s why if you do a low carb diet you may feel brain-fogged and have palpitations.

A moderate portion of low glycaemic carbohydrate at dinner time is a very good idea.

Low glycaemic carbohydrates release their sugars slowly, keeping you feeling full and avoiding a blood sugar spike that may leave you feeling hungry later in the evening.

Examples of suitable carbohydrates are kumara, pumpkin, basmati or brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat or a wholegrain bread roll. A moderate serve of carbohydrate is your fist size or a quarter of your plate/ meal.

Indeed, carbs at night are essential if you intend to exercise for more than 90 mins continuously the following day. If I hadn’t used carbohydrates the night before the two marathons that I have run so far this year they would have been a disaster.

Carbohydrate is the body’s preferred source of fuel. Our brain uses 20% of our calorie requirement in a day and likes to run on carbohydrate.

Our muscles, including our heart muscle, also like carbohydrate and carbohydrate is used to refill your glycogen stores too.

Glycogen looks a bit like runny honey and is glucose and water which we store in our muscle cells and liver.

This fuels the muscles for their work the following day giving the energy to

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out & about | eastlife

Carbs at night only prevent weight loss if you eat too many of them!

Most people eat too much at night and any excess energy, no matter where it comes from, will be turned into fat.

After all you are just going to bed, your metabolism is slowing down so that you can sleep, and you are not going out to run a marathon.

Many evening snack foods, such as chips, crackers or lollies are carbohydrates and it is easy to form the habit of mindlessly eating these in front of the telly without realising how much you are consuming. It is also easy to eat a huge serving of rice, potatoes, pasta or bread and consume far more calories than one thinks.

‘

Should I try taking carbs out at night? I have many clients who do this during the week to control their calorie intake. It stops them from filling up on the aforementioned chippies, crackers and bread. It also encourages them to fill up on fibrous vegetables, which has to be a good thing and is a useful way of maintaining or controlling weight.

Why are low carb diets popular?

Because removing carbs removes

Carbohydrate is the body’s preferred source of fuel. Our brain uses 20% of our calorie requirement in a day and likes to run on carbohydrate, our muscles, including our heart muscle, also like carbohydrate.”

water too and looks great on the scales, it doesn’t however mean that you have lost fat.

Eating the majority of your carbohydrate intake at breakfast and lunchtime provides energy for the day. Unless they are over eaten they won’t be stored as fat.

Eating a smaller meal at night may help you to sleep better and allows you to build and repair tissue rather than spending the night digesting and storing a huge meal.

It also encourages the body to burn fat as a fuel while you sleep which has to be a good thing, right? So, indulge in some carb-free nights or moderate carbs at night, unless you are an endurance athlete. I do my first Ultra at the Kepler Challenge this year – so watch this space.

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September 2013

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home Kiwi saves seeds for holy land Food writer Tamara Rubanowski is a keen gardener who harvests seeds from her ‘hero’ plants, to propagate and share the best crops. Some of her seeds have even started sprouting in Jerusalem.

We love our little Farm Cove garden in East Auckland, which produces aromatic herbs, fresh vegetables and juicy fruit all year round.

vegetables. You must allow the fruit and seed to fully mature, so wait until near the end of the season to save fruit for seed.

Some of the seeds from our harvests are always saved for future plantings and a small batch is set aside for my daughter Jasmin, who currently lives in Israel where she is involved with a community garden project.

Seeds are mature when flowers are

‘

I have sent her sunflower, pumpkin, basil, parsley, sage, rocket, tomato and carrot seeds, which she has propagated successfully in Jerusalem.

New Zealand’s strict customs regulations means Jasmin can’t send seeds to me instead, I receive regular updates and photos from her garden.

Seed saving is a great way to maintain heritage vegetables and flowers and the best part is: It’s free of charge! Seed packets from your garden also make unique personal gifts for family and friends.

How to save seeds When saving seeds, always harvest from only the very best fruit and vegetables. Choose disease-free plants with qualities you desire. Look for the most flavoursome and biggest

jasmin in jerusalem garden faded and dry or have puffy tops.

Plants with pods, such as beans, are ready when pods are brown and dry.

seeds is putting the dry seed heads into paper bags that will catch the seed as it falls out.

Allow the seed to dry as long as possible on the plant. Complete the drying process by spreading inside a cardboard box, or on a screen, in a single layer in a well-ventilated dry location.

Save seeds from pumpkins and tomatoes by carefully washing the pulp off, then drying them on paper towels. You can place tomato seeds on paper towel strips for drying, leaving a 2cm gap between seeds.

As the seed dries, the chaff or pods can be removed or blown gently away. Another good method for small

Store these strips in paper envelopes and when ready for planting, simply place the paper strips (seed side up)

Some seeds from our harvests are always saved for future plantings and a small batch is set aside for my daughter Jasmin, who currently lives in Israel where she is involved with a community garden project.”

in the prepared vegetable garden and cover with good soil. It’s an easy way to plant a whole lot of seeds in one row and the paper will slowly disintegrate.

• Top Tips: Stored seeds in a dry, dark, cool place. Be sure to label all envelopes or paper bags with seed type and date. Store labelled seed envelopes in a wooden box or tin, to keep safe from mice and other seed eaters. Most seed will keep up to three years.

E512005

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eastlife | architecture

Chris Tate entrepreneur

DESIGNS ANGLE FOR PLACE IN ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY In the world of architecture those lauded as visionaries number but a few – greats such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Philip Johnson and Alden B Dow, spring to mind. However, after viewing some of Chris Tate’s projects HELEN PERRY believes this progeny of Pakuranga will have a formidable impact on future landscapes.

Chris Tate often refers to his buildings as monsters – that’s because they usually change a streetscape entirely.

But perhaps they can, like the very word, be defined as something of unnatural size, shape or quality, a prodigy, an enormity, a marvel – a cause of wonder and amazement.

His forest project of 2005, built in amongst Titirangi’s dense, native bush, has been featured in architectural and design publications around the world.

So intriguing the design, and enterprising the project, it has left even the most experienced and talented industry experts agape. The very concept of a home enveloped by greenery, and the thought of glaziers

working tentatively around massive trees to fix windows just inches away without accidents, is still mindboggling.

But Chris’ works are as much an engineering feat as they are a design triumph. “I’ve always been interested in the engineering side and I do all my own structural designs before sending plans to the engineer.”

In fact, it seems the more difficult the site the more enthusiastic Chris becomes. Where one might say he has been challenged by his projects and their location, I venture to say he has been exhilarated.

He is definitely a student of modernism and that engineering bent

is evident in his use of the modular.

However, while he describes many of his residential projects as ‘bachs’ for the most they are contemporary homes which make exceptional use of every inch of space, their point in common often that difficult site.

Some are steep; some flood-prone; one is perched above three waterfalls – the house will be cantilevered out above the water and the underside

mirrored to make it virtually invisible from below – another nests on sand; several are defined by all-embracing native forest which, needless to say, come, with building restrictions.

Have they fazed Chris? Not a bit.

“It’s all about working with the environment not competing with it.”

Working on his own ‘bach’, actually, future home, at Palm Beach on

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38 |TI eastlife | september 2013 Pakuranga Phone: 09 274 9808 298 Rakau Drive, Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5.30pm Sat 9am – 5pm Sun 10am – 4pm

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home | eastlife The Fire Pit House, far left and the Forest House, below. Chris, wife Fiona and son, Fergus outside his Huia project right.

Waiheke, it is immediately evident this is another assignment destined to set the design world talking.

Nestled amongst a wetland, which has influenced the design, Chris says The Fin House has taken five years to design and after some 13 months of construction is nearing completion.

“Because of the complexity of the angles, the inclusion of beams and the need to maximise every centimetre of space, I had to re-think the plans at least 20 to 30 times.”

Yet despite the perplexities of this assignment, Chris has welcomed other equally difficult projects, several in the commercial arena, a blend of retail and apartment living that has his creative juices flowing.

“There are some pretty bad

apartments around,” he says.

“That’s not where I fit in. I have great opportunity to challenge people’s perspective of the apartment living experience whilst also leaving landmark buildings on the cityscape.”

And, it seems, with this statement the public can expect dramatic buildings with creative use of space and, an overall look that sparks discussion.

And, all this from a man who has no formal architectural degree, just an insatiable love of buildings, space and creative design.

“I started out as a community worker in South Auckland but I also had a bit of involvement in the construction industry. One day I decided what I most wanted to do was design buildings and thought there was no better time to start than now.”

So Chris Tate social worker became director of Chris Tate Architecture and in just 10 years he has designed some of the country’s most talked about buildings. The forest house was his first and the ingenious design went ‘viral’– publications all over the world picked up on it and it has won many awards.

they initially envisaged.”

It was a hard act to follow but Chris has been up to it. Projects such as the Fire Pit House, The V House and the Concrete Bunker, are typical of his streamlined, modular leanings.

Married to former Howick girl, Fiona, and now dad to 15-month-old Fergus, Chris has his hands full.

He admits not everyone likes his work. “Architecture is a subjective thing but I like challenging clients about what they think they need. I get the biggest thrill when they take ownership of a design and have complete confidence in its success even when it might not have been as

And on Waiheke right now, The Fin House is taking shape and is already attracting comment. “When we first submitted the drawings there was a bit of hesitation but Waiheke is forward thinking and more readily embraces originality.”

The Palm Beach house was intended to be a holiday home but after five great years living in the heart of the city Chris says he’s now confident Waiheke will be home for the family.

And, I’m confident this latest project will become another Chris Tate triumph which will do New Zealand’s architectural community proud.

��������� � ��������� �� ���������

E510004

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39

eastlife | beds

Bunking down Moving into your first home is a big step and while it’s easy to start accumulating implements to make life a breeze without a mum at the sink, perhaps the first item to think about should be the bed.

The old adage, ‘you’ve made your bed, now lie in it’, loosely translated to mean, ‘you’ve made your decision now accept it’ is, strangely enough, appropriate for new householders buying their first few ‘sticks of furniture’.

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Make the wrong decision and you may regret it within a year or two; choose wisely, especially when it comes to the all important bed, and you’ll reap the benefits.

That’s because sleeping and relaxing are essential to wellbeing.

First and foremost, buy quality wherever possible – a lot of time is spent in bed and good support is essential to maintain correct posture and to avoid aching backs.

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unaffordable just now, that doesn’t mean buying at the bottom end either.

However, wending your way through the options – plush, super plush, ultra plush or body plush, dual comfort pod, sensorzone or elite, beautyrest, torquezone, king coil or posturepedic – well, it’s obvious everyone needs to know some bed basics.

Poorly sprung, sagging in the middle beds can result in sore backs, posture problems and roll together. Similarly, a hump in the middle of the bed is unlikely to be your partner – a centre ridge and sloping sides will definitely have bedmates not rolling around but rolling apart!

If partners are of vastly different size and weight there are beds that adjust to accommodate those differences,

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beds | eastlife

some allowing head and knee areas to be raised to relieve pressure points.

Innerspring mattresses are perhaps the best known and use the hourglass or continuous coil spring to give support.

Pocket spring mattresses feature individual small springs housed in separate fabric pockets. The springs work independently to respond to individual body weight.

These spring systems can be made using different grades of wire to provide the core of your mattress with superior support, eg middle and edge zoned with a firmer spring – support where you need it.

Pocket springs eliminate the ripple effect through the mattress and provide minimal partner disturbance.

This system is particularly suitable if there is weight or size variation between bed partners. There is little

Pocket springs are considered more luxurious than the standard coil spring, also made from wire but are held together by a single wire in a wire frame. The quality of the mattress may depend on the number of coils but coil springs are usually considered the cheaper option.

Because the standard coil springs move as one unit, a restless sleeper is more likely to disturb his or her partner and the coils are more likely to wear out faster than pocket springs.

New technology in foam production has resulted in memory foam and memory and gel which contour to the body and have the ability to absorb heat, keeping the bed at a more even temperature.

‘

during sleep. It also helps to maintain correct posture and align the spine horizontally when lying on one’s side.

It is good for no partner disturbance, no roll-together and for relieving pressure points.

These visco-elastic mattresses (memory foam) have become increasingly popular. Because body heat softens the foam, the mattress moulds and re-moulds to body contours.

Premium mattresses also have natural materials such as wool, silk and cashmere quilted into the fabric.

Pure latex rubber is another quality mattress material. Because it can disperse moisture and is considered anti-bacterial, it is suitable for people who suffer from allergies. Pure latex is mould-free and dust-free with excellent orthopaedic support.

Memory foam offers good support and enables natural movement

Over the past decade, technology has changed beds to sophisticated

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Another aspect is the comfort layers and pillow-tops. The latter aren’t for everyone, especially lightweight people who might not compress the foam enough to take advantage of the underlying support system.

But a very firm bed may not be good either. Too firm a bed can create pressure points (mostly around the hips and shoulders) and won’t provide correct spinal alignment.

This is where pocket springs are recommended.

With so much to consider do your research and ask advice. Some stores will even allow a trial period.

Beds for children should also be purchased with care and always remember it’s the inside that counts.

The spring system and the comfort layers are what you pay for and the heavier the bed, the better the quality.

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sleeping platforms. Even the top cover (mattress ticking), has been developed as a smart textile with the ability to keep you cool by temperature control using similar technology to sportswear. Carbon and silver are also used to remove static electricity from the body.

Pocket springs eliminate the ripple effect through the mattress and provide minimal partner disturbance. This system is particularly suitable if there is weight or size variation between bed partners.”

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Of course, mattresses come in various compositions with pros and cons to each. If compromises have to be made, seek advice as to which bed will best serve your needs without compromising health. Try to buy the best bed your budget can afford.

partner disturbance and generally no roll together.

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A good solution here is to have two mattresses and bases joined together with zips. The beds can be made with different degrees of firmness but dressed as a one-piece bed.

eastlife | september 2013 |

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architecture | eastlife

Transforming your home Architectural design skills, strong project management capability and professional building expertise are critical to successfully transforming dated housing into modern, attractive homes. Design and build specialist Lite-House now provides a one-stop solution in our area.

With decades of experience and dozens of awards for design and build projects, Lite-House was previously based just a short ferry hop away on Waiheke Island, where they scoped, designed and built bespoke renovations and new homes throughout New Zealand.

Business owner, Bryce Ardern, says expansion into the eastern suburbs has been an exciting and refreshing move and the Lite-House team is already hard at work on a transformation in Farm Cove.

“The ways in which we create spaces for families to grow has really changed in the last 20 years and many homes in this area were built in the 1970’s and 80’s, decades not renowned for taking advantage of outdoor spaces.”

Alfresco rooms or loggias are something Bryce is passionate about and says people often think they don’t have the option for brighter, more flexible living options with their current home. However, he believes with smart design almost anything is possible.

“There is so much you can do with a room that can be opened up in summer or closed in winter. You can create great spaces for a growing family or to entertain.”

For most of us, undertaking a major renovation can be as daunting as it is exciting.

A 1980’s modulock home was redesigned using the existing structure, raising the roof ridgeline and increasing the width of the building to create a contemporary symmetrical structure. The home was opened up to the outdoors with floor to ceiling glazing and inside interior living became open plan with exposed steel beams.

Liaising with architects or draughtsmen, navigating the council regulations and processes and then finding a reliable, cost effective builder to actually fill the job is a headache for anyone without a good deal of experience. What Lite-House does is take care of all those stresses by managing the entire project.

“It’s our job to take the worries away and make the journey as hassle-free as possible. That’s the advantage of having a personalised service with one point of contact from concept to completed construction.”

Equipped with decades of experience in the building industry, Bryce credits his career evolution from quantity surveyor to architectural designer and master builder with giving him the insights to turn design dreams into reality.

bryce ardern www.eastlife.co.nz

residential and commercial builds, he says the sense of satisfaction and achievement in being involved in a project, from an idea or sketch through to the completion, has not diminished over the years.

He has also enjoyed the privilege of visiting more than his fair share of top quality build projects during his 10-year tenure as a judge for the Master Builders House of the Year Awards.

In 2010, and then again in 2012, the tables were turned as LiteHouse earned a clutch of House of the Year Awards for several homes, including a national winner’s award for a shared home and office space which, at the time, set new standards for sustainable building.

Lite-House is offering a FREE onehour consultation to discuss new major renovation opportunities.

E info@lite-house.co.nz, P 0800 372 100, www.lite-house.co.nz

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eastlife | landscape

Designs on landscaping Landscaping is no easy task especially for homeowners short on time, knowledge and creativity. Vice president of the Landscape Industries Association, Lynn Cairney, from Fusion Landscape Design Ltd, Howick, says engaging the services of a professional when thinking about or carrying out landscaping can save mistakes. She writes: Whatever the landscaping work required, by employing an accredited member of the Landscape Industries Association, also known as Landscaping New Zealand, means you can rely on professionalism and proven expertise.

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All of these attributes are part of the vigorous assessment that we go through to become accredited members. And, yes, it is a lot to comply with but we pride ourselves on being professional. Our accreditation differentiates us in what is an unregulated industry.

projects the difference between functional, aesthetically-pleasing spaces that you love being in and a mish-mash of ideas and styles that do not work on any level, is a plan. An overall plan is even more important if the work is to be carried out in stages over a period of time.

One of the biggest mistakes I regularly see is decking or patio areas that are too small, the wrong shape and occasionally too large – all are a waste of money.

We all know places and other people’s homes that we love and say there is a great feel to the area. But to achieve this ambience and look is no accident. It is the result of good design and forethought.

With the costs involved in quality decking and paved/concrete areas it takes an error of about one square metre to exceed the cost of having had a landscape designer look at it before construction.

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So if tackling a landscaping project of any size, my advice is: do it right, consult a professional, decide on a plan. That’s the best way to avoid disappointment and also to really see the possibilities of what can be achieved.

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Custom sized KitChens at sensible PriCes

At Jag Kitchens we specialise in custom-sized kitchens designed and built to a variety of budgets.

We have a complete range of materials covered by our 10 year warranty.

Ask about our sophisticated 3D computer design program (see how your kitchen will look before it is built).

Whether you are building a new home or simply planning to replace an existing kitchen contact Jag Kitchens. Our showroom is open seven days a week or a visit to our website will give you lots of information and photographs.

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

eastlife | september 2013 |

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eastlife | history

A tale of tails What’s in a name – or to be more precise – what’s in the names of our local streets? CHRISTINE MILES from the Howick Historical Village gives the low down on the history behind some of our thoroughfares.

Howick’s main thoroughfare, Picton Street, was named after Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Picton (17581815) a man whose life has been endowed with a few tall ‘tails”.

According to the facts, Picton was known as a ‘brave and wholehearted man, but temperamental and with a reputation for being a hard and even brutal taskmaster’.

His life came to an end at Waterloo.

While leading his final charge he was shot through the temple by a musket ball giving him the ignominious status of ‘highest ranking victim of the battle on the allied side’.

However, according to folklore – much of it unsubstantiated – Picton had travelled ahead of his luggage as Napoleon’s march into Belgium began more quickly than expected.

Reportedly, Picton found himself fighting in tails and a top hat and, it

is alleged, he may have been shot by one of his own men who did not recognise him in the heat of battle.

Family folklore contends the military man did not ride out in tails, but in his nightshirt and top hat because he had overslept and that he died at the hands of one of his own men who shot him in the back of the head because he was so hated amongst his troops. As to the truth of the matter, perhaps we’ll never really know.

Over the past century, men of all kinds have walked Howick’s main street but Frank Rishworth, proprietor, was one of the precinct’s characters – a wholehearted, entrepreneurial citizen.

Rishworth’s, as his store was known for more than 80 years, was the first recorded shop in Picton Street.

Signage indicated it to be a draper, but Frank and wife Evangeline also sold haberdashery, clothing, boots,

fine china, crystal, toys, magazines, and loose tobacco. Frank even produced his own hand-developed postcards of photographs of Howick.

25 years and were required to pass stringent tests before they could receive the then one pound and ten shillings per month.

He was also the proud owner of a covered area, making the store the perfect bus stop. The Town Board even tarsealed the road outside to prevent stones being thrown against the windows by departing buses.

Of course, other good people came to inhabit Picton Street, some of whom are still represented among today’s businesses. Observant wanderers will find plaques and murals depicting those bygone times and people.

Ultimately, the businessman also took on payment of old-age pensions as the postmistress didn’t appreciate scruffy folk in her polished rooms!

Interestingly, pensions were paid only to the ‘deserving’ poor who had to have lived in New Zealand for

But, they will no longer find Rishworth’s – the building was demolished in 2004, and the site developed for Barfoot & Thompson.

– Researched from the archives at Howick Historical Village

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comment | eastlife

Good old fashioned values The next day the client phoned, thanking me for a great job and to let me know she had left my payment in the newly renovated letterbox for me to collect.

Nick Neben is a director of specialist renovation company Smith & Sons Howick and a time-served builder of more than 30 years experience.

I think I’m pretty lucky that my parents taught me the meaning of values right from an early age.

Learning to value and respect yourself is not always easy in this fast-paced, global frenzy we call life.

We tend to become somewhat complacent and accept things whilst ignoring those core values and events that mould our lives. Recently, I read a weekend newspaper article asking its readers what they would take with them if their house was on fire.

As I looked around our house, it really made me think. Yes, there were lots of things with a monetary value but only a handful of things I really valued and wouldn’t want to lose.

Goods are only worth what somebody is willing to pay for them, which leads me to a story I want to tell you.

The first job I ever did when I went out on my own as a self-employed builder taught me one of the most valuable lessons I have ever learnt in business.

Young and full of enthusiasm I had placed an advert in the classified section of our local newspaper. I didn’t have to wait long before the phone rang and I was out the door to look at my very first job. In hindsight, the phrase “no job too big, no job too small” probably wasn’t the best to use.

The elderly client greeted me like an old lost friend and, after several cups of strong tea and yummy homemade shortbread biscuits, I was shown my first job – a rickety, old wooden letterbox, minus a flap to contain any letters and minus any numbers.

A visit to Spillers Hardware saw me back on deck with new hinges, catch and a couple of shiny brass numbers.

You wouldn’t think such a small job would offer so many challenges, but after three hours of running around picking up materials and getting the job done, I was finished.

My client by this stage had headed down to the recreation centre for her afternoon bingo session. Wanting to impress, I went down the road and bought a ‘thank you’ card that I left in the newly renovated letterbox thanking her for engaging my services and also asking her to pay me what she thought the job was worth.

Later that day I went to collect my payment. Upon opening the new and freshly painted flap I was greeted with a parcel wrapped in newspaper and an envelope with a card inside, very similar to the one I had given her the day before.

To my amazement it was the same card with my words twinked out and her special wishes emblazoned in large capital letters. To my disbelief, my payment was a large, king-size bar of chocolate that had not fared too well in the hot summer weather.

I have moved on since then and have put a value on my time and my expertise. Whilst I still hold strong values, I urge all of you to take a look at your own values. Appreciate yourself and walk away from situations that are not good for you.

E513056

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | september 2013 |

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real estate | eastlife

First signs of levelling off?

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

Dramatic rises in the local median house price, particularly since the beginning of this year, have shown the first real sign of possible slowing.

The median price for the local area, after hitting a new record high of $720,750 in June, has dropped back to $705,000 for July. But at $705,000 it is still above all other preceding months and, being above the $700,000 mark, is still impressive.

Looking at the median from July 2012 we are up 19% – a staggering increase for a 12-month period whatever way you look at it.

The big upward swing in house prices, particularly in the Auckland and Christchurch markets, is a cause of concern to many, including the Governor of the Reserve Bank, Graeme Wheeler, who has announced new measures to try and keep the residential real estate market in check.

From October 1, 2013, banks will be subject to restrictions on high loan/ value ratio (LVR) housing mortgage loans. This means banks will be required to restrict new residential

mortgage lending at LVRs of over 80% to no more than 10% of the dollar value of their new housing lending flows. There has been a lot of debate on whether this will help or hinder the perceived “right or wrong” buyer in the market.

Already banks are producing packages that have mechanisms to work within the new rules but allow, for example, first home buyers to still get on the property ladder with relatively low savings to contribute as a deposit.

Locally, the number of first home buyers is considerably less than some parts of Auckland. However, on the flip side we have a good number of recently arrived immigrants keen to settle locally who often arrive with relatively small home deposits but have high paid jobs.

I am sure the Reserve Bank will be watching closely how the new measures affect the market and you can be sure, that if needed, they will be more than ready to step in with other measures such as raising interest rates.

The childrens toy cupboard is one place to start decluttering.

Time to declutter The idea of living a simplified, uncluttered life with less stuff sounds attractive to many people.

They will have considered the benefits of owning fewer possessions: less to clean, less debt, less to organise, less stress and more money and energy for their greatest passions.

These folk are ready to declutter because it will make life easier.

Others need to declutter because they are putting the house on the market, have already sold the home, are down-sizing or are moving abroad and want a lot less to transport. However, many are stumped by the very next question… where in the world do I begin?

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and defeated at the idea of decluttering a house. But it doesn’t need to be painful. In fact, there are a variety of creative ways to get started.

Early in your journey towards simplicity, try fun and easy decluttering techniques such as grabbing a large rubbish bag and seeing how quickly you can fill it – perhaps set a time limit.

You can fill it with trash you really need to throw away or you can provide a bag for ‘goodwill’ – fill it with items you no longer need or want, such as toys or clothes, but are still useful, and then donate it to a worthy cause.

No matter how you choose to start, the goal is to take your first step with excitement behind it. There is a beautiful world of freedom hiding behind that clutter. How you remove it is up to you.

For more tips check out Joshua Becker’s book on www.amazon. com: Simplify – 7 Guiding Principles to Help Anyone Declutter Their Home and Life.

Sell your property with me and get Auckland’s most successful real estate team behind you.

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

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | september 2013 |

49 E510126

comment | eastlife

‘Mum & Dad, will you

‘go guarantor’?

Fencible Law Director, Lawyer & Entrepreneur, RICHARD GALBRAITH, with his take on current legal & business issues affecting our community.

With house prices skyrocketing we are seeing a greater number of parents having to come forward and provide a guarantee in respect of home loans being made available to children purchasing their first home or buying a business.

If you are asked to sign a guarantee, never take this on lightly. They are potent documents, totally enforceable by the courts and there have been numerous cases where

the guarantors have lost either huge sums of money or possibly even their home. I’m strongly of the view that if ever asked to ‘go guarantor’ for any party, you consult your lawyer and take your time before answering.

As lawyers, we always have a slightly different take on the situation and can consider all parties’ points of view objectively. In many cases other options can be explored before a guarantee is signed. Unlimited

guarantees should be avoided, if possible. It’s better for a guarantee to be limited to a certain amount so you know the worst if things go wrong.

It’s important to have a close relationship with the parties who are borrowing the funds. You need to understand what the loan is for and the circumstances are behind the guarantee. Your lawyer will explain the consequences of the guarantee and that if the debtor cannot pay the debt, the responsibility will immediately pass to yourself as guarantor. You must consider the worst scenario as guarantees are not easy to ‘get out of’ if the debtor

has not built up sufficient resources to borrow in their own right. As guarantor, you should always be thinking about the release and therefore keep in regular contact with the debtor to monitor progress.

I can see guarantees becoming a greater part of ordinary Kiwi life as they can enable great things to happen within families. In particular they can help keep the Kiwi home ownership dream alive. However, it’s important that the position of all family members, including your own, is carefully considered before you answer, “sure, that’s not a problem sweetheart – we’ll do that for you”.

Personality, poisonality, you choose – 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 This is a basic definition of ‘personality’. ‘Personality’ is...‘the combination of characteristics or qualities that form an individual’s distinctive character.’ Do you, um... have one? Hello? It is only the key ingredient of your life fulfilment, as a human bean. That’s all.

motivating. Or, you can be cold, pessimistic, angry, withdrawn, arrogant, self-righteous, bullying, conceited or condescending.

(until they are 35)!

Both conditions decide your success, relationships (or lack of them) and your impact. Strange people still say, ‘you’ll just have to accept me as I am, warts an’ all’. Actually, no! If there is no ‘give and take’, I’m going to ‘give’ you the finger, and ‘take’ orf!

Besides, who wants to be into warts?

Altogether... Yuk!

well-built (obviously) piece of human architectural magic, and become immortal with us. Yes, yes, spend big.

Now is good!’

Apparently, if you are of... the ‘beautiful people’, you can have the personality of a Komodo Dragon with B.O., and still be ‘special’. If you don’t believe this, just check tonight’s TV fare.

No mucking about! You either have a ‘personality’ or a ‘poisonality’.

Your ‘personality’ has almost A positive, vibrant and interesting And, true to form, most of the nothing to do with your physical ‘personality’, usually beats out media, movies and game makers, appearance. This is contrary to most the short-term ‘artificials’ of this Yes, you can be gorgeous, hunky, are in an unrequited love affair, advertising, ‘reality shows’ (Barf!), world. It ensures that... you don’t brainy, funny, interesting, smart, with ‘poisonalities’. Is ‘bad’ slowly too many magazines, movies and just get ’15 minutes of fame’, TS LAW • ORthis, G • SP caring, considerate, friendly, becoming the ‘new good’? Is it now many shops. ‘Come hither, you sexy, IESbut a lifetime. about NDINMore • LE ET DING • CI IL SO BU & • S ES IS OM‘Eastlife’. knowledgeable, educated, warm, Heaven, for the ‘morons’ and the D GALB hunky, gorgeous, totally handsome, in your Cheers.

H • CLUB PRnext RAIT TARY • ELDER EN AJ AM NR AR ST DU TE CH • A RI T (of course), TES TY organised, useful, confident or TY • WIL‘mediocres’.

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NSTR T • CA CING • Y • FAMIL LBRAITH • CO IT TITLES • CONVEYAN EMPLOYMEN W • CUSTOD ING • KIM GA ULLOUGH • NDOR NANCIES • UN • FAMILY LA NC CC TE D M FE L EL • Y IA FI LL NT NS NI KE IO DE SS LAW • VE • TO IS SI S NE IV IP RE SI • BD SH BU SU ES • ON • E AG TI E NC LA TG RN S GE RE OR BO UB LI T M DI • OS CL UL • E E ES AD T EN KYLI T • DU ITH • CENC KATE TENN RICT COUR LEASES • LI ARD GALBRA • ESTATES • AMENTARY SFER • DIST SEMENTS • LAW • RICH TY • WILLS TION • TEST TITLES • EA ER • LAND TRAN EC E N OP OT AS IO PR LE AT PR • S Y TR IL NG IS A DUNRAJ • M CI IN NY FA M AN • CROS • VA EY AD Y LA NV • OD OF ST • CO LETTERS • INCAPACITY W • CROSS LEASE ILY LAW • CU NCIBLE LAW M ON TI FE FA • • PROBATE • UC D D TR EL EL LA FI • CONS IBLE S • TONI W • TONI FI TENANCIES ATS • FENC GALBRAITH WARRANTIE • SPORTS LA SIDENTIAL MENT • CAVE NCING • KIM S • LENDING TGAGES • RE • BUSINESS H • EMPLOY OR ISIONS • FE E M IV UG • NC BD LO & SOCIETIE GE ES SU LI UL • CC E DI CENC • BUILDING S • KELLY M COURT • DU RICHARD DUNRAJ • LI IP • A CT S SH NY RI TE ON VA ST PROMISES TA TI DI LA • LA • • ES TRANSFER • ADULT RE TY • WILLS TS • LEASES ECTION ER ND EN OT LA M OP • PR SE PR N • Y EA IO ELDER LAW IL • AT M E CING ADMINISTR STODY • FA LIE OSBORN CONVEYAN TION CU OF • • UC S W W TR ER LA LA TT NS Y LE LE IL TITLES • KY CO • M NCIB • PROBATE • FENCING • NI FIELD • FA W• COURT • FE ES NS Y LA TO TL IL IO • TI LE M IS W IB IV IT FA LA • NC BD UN • TS IES SU • FE ING • SPOR • CAVEATS OSBORNE • OBATE OR WARRANT ND T E PR LI LE ND • EN • KY M VE S • ES • IE OY TL W ET PL LA DING IT TI UBS & SOCI LOUGH • EM ISES • BUIL NCIES • UN LS CL UL IL • OM NA W H CC • TE PR IT M L Y OR RA RY IA LL NT KE ENTA VEND GALB ES • RESIDE ONSHIPS • NESS LAW • ENT • TESTAM • MORTGAG ULT RELATI RAITH • NCE • BUSI AD ES LB • GE • KATE TENN NC GA W LI DI CE M LA E LI KI R • • T • DU TES • ELDE LEASES • FAMILY RICT COUR ILLS • ESTA • INCAPACITY SEMENTS • • CUSTODY SFER • DIST OPERTY • W E TITLES • EA FAMILY LAW • LAND TRAN ANCING • PR NCING • KIM • N EY D FE IO • NV EL CROSS LEAS AT FI NS CO TR • NI IO H • TO LAW ADMINIS E • SUBDIVIS ORTS LAW RN • FENCIBLE MCCULLOUG T Y SP BO • LL UR OS G • LETTERS OF KE E IN CO • LI Y S ND KY IES • FAMIL LATIONSHIP ES • CIETIES • LE BUILDING • • RE AG SO T & ES TG UL S IS OR • WARRANT AD UB M OM • • ES LAW ENTARY PR LBRAITH • CL ES • LICENC AJ • ELDER COURT • RICHARD GA ENT • TESTAM ENTS • LEAS • DISTRICT VANYA DUNR • KATE TENN TRANSFER ES • EASEM PACITY • LA TL ND OPERTY CA TI LA E IN PR • • • AS N LE ON NG PROTECTION IO TI S CI AT LAW • CROS ADMINISTR • CONSTRUC • CONVEYAN W• H LE W OF IT LA IB S LA Y RA ER NC IL LE LB M TT FE IB • GA NC • FA • LE ATS IONS • PROBATE Y COURT • FE • TONI FIELD ENT • CAVE E • SUBDIVIS IES • FAMIL ORTS LAW • EMPLOYM • UNIT TITLES RN NT SP S BO • IE RA G OS AR NC IN E W NA LI ND OR TE KY LE S • L • ND IP IA S NG VE IE NT SH • DI ET DE W IL ON CI • BU SO LATI RESI NESS LA PROMISES • ADULT RE H • CLUBS & NCE • BUSI ELDER LAW ASES • D GALBRAIT STAMENTARY DUE DILIGE MENTS • LE A DUNRAJ • S • RICHAR NNENT • TE SE NY TE TE EA VA TA • TE LA ES • ES KA • • TL • LAND TI CITY N E TION PA IO Kim Galbraith ILY PRKylie Osborne Kelly McCullough Richard Galbraith Lavanya Dunraj Toni Field Kate Tennent • WILLS AS EC AT CA LE OT IN TR S • IS CROS TION ADMIN Y • FAM S OF IBLE LAW NSTRUC ER IBLE LAW • NC CO TT • FE NC LE H • CUSTOD FE • IT T Accountant Legal Executive Lawyer Director Lawyer Legal Executive Legal Assistant • E RA S UR AT AT OB Y CO KIM GALB TS LAW • MENT • CAVE TITLES • PR IES • FAMIL OR IT OY NT SP PL UN • RA • FENCING • • G EM S AR • IN IE W ND NC ULLOUGH W • VENDOR NG • NTIAL TENA CIETIES • LE LA DI IL DE SO SS SI & BU NE • S RE • KELLY MCC • SI UB ES IS • CL E • BU MORTGAGES TARY PROM • ELDER GALBRAITH E DILIGENC EN D AJ DU AM • AR NR ST T CH DU LICENCES • TE UR RI • A CO ENT VANY3539 www.fenciblelaw.co.nz phone 533 • ESTATES • ES • DISTRICT KATE TENN PACITY • LA TRANSFER S LEASE TITL ERTY • WILLS OTECTION • TION • INCA LAW • CROS CING • PROP • FAMILY PR CONSTRUC LE • Y IB H OD IT NC ST RA FE • CU LB • CONVEYAN ATS Y LA 50 | eastlife | september WIV•ISIONS • FENCING • KIM GA www.eastlife.co.nz • FAMIL2013 MENT • CAVE TONI FIELD H • EMPLOY CCULLOUG RNE • SUBD M Y BO LL OS KE E • LI S KY IP SH ON TI T RELA LAW • ADUL

0800 fencible

E513062-v2

“Make it happen! ”

FOOD Pukka taka!

Earlier this year Bucklands Beach Espresso, which had been a day-time cafe, launched an evening menu Thursday to Saturday. HELEN PERRY went along to find out if it was as good as others said.

When a friend expressed surprise at how good the dinner menu was at Bucklands Beach Espresso I said I wasn’t even though I hadn’t yet dined there at night.

As it turns out Matt Taka has many years hospitality experience mostly front of house but these days his ‘other job’ is as a local fitness trainer operating his own business.

“How so?” she asked. “Easy,” I replied. “The chef’s Nathan Taka and I’ve experienced his culinary efforts elsewhere; just the best!”

Well, I must say the Swiss ball and I have never been friends but I could be inspired by this dashing young man to become reacquainted with my roly-poly foe – especially after we feasted so well.

Then I forgot all about the conversation until recently when man about the house and I decided we really had to try this peninsula charmer people have been talking about.

So, off we set and, surprise, surprise, I did get a surprise – not the food – it was tops, just as expected. But there front of house was another Taka, Nathan’s brother Matt.

Bucklands Beach Espresso is definitely onto a winner with this matched pair – one working wonders in the kitchen the other working wonders front of house.

While well aware of Nathan’s culinary background including past success in the Monteith’s Beer and Wild Food Challenge, I didn’t know much about his sibling.

The perfect setting for your next intimate party or business gathering.

We welcome you to view at 186 Wellington St, Howick.

A charming host, who obviously doesn’t over indulge in his brother’s very fine cooking, nevertheless, Matt does ensure service at Bucklands Beach Espresso is as sweet as a chai latte.

And in the kitchen Nathan has lost none of his flair for preparation and presentation. I did so want to try the fish of the day – hapuka served stackstyle and accompanied by a dainty seafood pie but didn’t think I could manage it and the other half was all for ordering the tasting plate of the day. So we did.

Because my man and cheese don’t mix we swapped the kikorangi blue portion of the plate for mushroomtopped bruschetta drizzled with a lime and hollandaise – fungi fabulous!

MATT AND NATHAN TAKA This dish also came with calamari (as good as any) as well as perfectly done, melt in the mouth, crispy-edged pork belly. Hard to beat Nathan’s take on that one.

Initially we had thought to follow up with the leek and potato soup with pancetta but in a rare shift from virtually never wanting dessert, hubby was won over by the idea of peach and apple crumble. And for once we each had our own.

What can I say? This peachy concoction with its crispy crumble topping came daintily served in a ramekin accompanied by a whisk of whipped cream, a spoonful of ice cream and a splash of raspberry

coulis – so, so good. And this was just one temptation.

From where I was sitting I couldn’t help but note the many wallmounted, celebrity-signed plates including one from that famous English chef Jamie Oliver who had simply written, “Pukka Tukka”. But you know what I say? Yes, you’ve guessed it, our night was pure “Pukka Taka” New Zealand style!

P.S I have since been back for the fish – blue cod when we next visited and it was every bit as good as it looked. What’s more we were three and we all ordered the same. The verdict? Let’s go back for more... next week!

Unique Venue For Hire

BOOK NOW for our next Sunday Session – a medley of music for everyone, Sunday, September 22, 2pm-6pm Ph 535 1397 Fax 535 1497 www.howicklounge.co.nz E510033-v3

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | september 2013 |

51

14 AN TH & LA U D M 15T NCH EE H T J SE ES A K PT E CO & EL ME LE !

eastlife | dine

High tea

with Jake and Elle

The Stamford Plaza Auckland has made high tea a signature event at the prestigious hotel and now Jake and Elle Harrison from My Kitchen Rules fame are adding their own creative touch to the menu.

You couldn’t get a better blend – Stamford Plaza and Australian culinary siblings Jake and Elle Harrison putting on a high tea that’s set to surpass all others.

of award-winning chef Michael Meredith’s high tea menu at the hotel. During the past four months his take on the experience has attracted thousands of appreciative guests.

Yes, the brother and sister team, who wowed viewers on Australia and New Zealand’s high rating television series, My Kitchen Rules, have packed up the cake mixer and are heading to the Stamford Plaza Auckland this month. There, they’ll be treating guests to a high tea inspired by the colours and flavours of spring.

Now it is the turn of the celebrated MKR Harrison siblings who will be here mid-month for two days to launch the menu and greet guests.

Renowned for their adventurous style, this will be high tea as only Jake and Elle can do it – beautifully presented and mouth-wateringly delicious.

General manager, Paul Evans says welcoming Jake and Elle to the Stamford Plaza is fantastic for the hotel.

“They are both so vivacious and cheeky and their food speaks for itself. Our high tea is really popular but we like to keep it current and fresh, so we are delighted that Jake and Elle will be behind this latest experience.”

The Stamford Plaza has gained a reputation for pushing the boundaries when it comes to the ‘traditional’ high tea especially after the success

“The menu is a true collaboration of our cooking styles,” says Elle, “Jake tends to be more laid back and enjoys entertaining guests as much as the actual cooking. He can also be a little more controversial than me, but he always pulls out show-stopping dishes.”

Jake adds: “Elle is definitely more straight down the line than I am. Her dishes are presented beautifully, with real detail given to the colour and the composition of what’s on the plate.”

Launching on Sept 14 and 15 at just $39 per head, the new high tea menu will be personally prepared by Jake and Elle on that weekend. Guests on those days will also have the opportunity to meet and chat with the pair. Thereafter Jake and Elle’s high tea will feature at the Stamford Plaza until Christmas.

Reservations are essential and can be made by booking at www.knightsonalbert.co.nz.

JUST $39 PER PERSON

Book your space on Sept 14 & 15 and meet the stars of My Kitchen Rules themselves!

Only at the Stamford Plaza, 22-26 Albert St, Auckland.

To book visit www.knightsonalbert.co.nz 52 | eastlife | september 2013

www.eastlife.co.nz

E510118

F ood’s out of the bag! food | eastlife

dine | eastlife

Dining in or out used to be the only options available to Aucklanders.

But now, tired cooks or strapped wallets can dive into a whole new bag of tricks. Wanting a taste of this novel concept, novice cook NATALIE BRITTAN blew the dust off her kitchen bench and pulled something out of My Food Bag.

It’s an age-old discussion. Eating in is supposedly cheaper than eating out.

But if time is money and households with busy lifestyles have to buy groceries, plan meals and cook, it can end up more difficult than anticipated – especially when price is involved.

In my house, it is certainly more cost-efficient to eat out than it is to eat in. Too many times we have fallen for the ‘let’s do a weekly shop’ ruse and ended up with all the fresh vegetables and meat in the bin, food and dollars wasted as a result of no time or motivation to cook.

But as much as I love eating out, it’s neither healthy nor ultimately economical. So, it was in desperation, that I said to my husband, “let’s try My Food Bag”!

will be coming into their home to help with the cooking, but it’s not a personal chef service!

After explaining this to the hubby, who dutifully acknowledged our dining issues, he had, within a few minutes, signed us up to a Gourmet Food Bag for two which costs $139 and covers four main meals.

The other option was a Classic Food Bag which feeds a family of four for $179 and includes five meals.

“Apparently Nadia says you must have all these staple ingredients,” he enthused. “She’ll deliver the bag on Sunday and it’s free delivery!”

Each week, customers receive a bag filled with fresh ingredients and step by step recipes formulated by MasterChef New Zealand 2011 winner Nadia Lim.

Those who have seen the TV ad may have the impression that Nadia

These ‘holes’ may appear in the form of unlabelled or missing items or, perhaps, instructions which seem a little vague, but can be quickly rectified via social media where customers are well taken care of.

Sunday arrived and so did our food bag – minus Nadia, of course. We excitedly pulled out some choice cuts such as pork shoulder and blue cod as well as fresh fruit, vegetables and condiments provided by reputable suppliers such as Ceres Organics, Saveur Duck and The Village Press – it felt as if we had just done a big shop at a gourmet food market where everything was free range or organic.

Best of all, there was no exorbitant price tag. Some brief estimates (with the help of the Countdown website and various specialist shops online) revealed that the food we received would have cost $106.95.

Considering that these were hard to find products such as fennel and pomegranate molasses requiring several shopping trips, it really wasn’t that far off the $139 mark.

www.eastlife.co.nz

A month into the My Food Bag experience, and I can safely say that I haven’t had any disasters, except maybe an over-caramelised bok choy.

The cooking process is relatively simple, but experience or food knowledge will come in handy for when there are ‘holes’ in My Food Bag or when unconventional foods are introduced.

Launched earlier this year, My Food Bag is a rapidly growing food delivery concept conceived by Au Pair Link founder, Cecilia Robinson.

Up until recently, My Food Bag was available only to central Auckland, but now our eastern shores of Howick, Whitford, Beachlands and Maraetai can have a taste too. And last month marked the debut into homes of shaken Wellingtonians.

And once time was factored in, along with the fact that we could build an entire folder of tried and tested recipes, we agreed this was far better value than we had bargained for.

For the most part, I have managed to plate up some fairly decent (some even restaurant quality!) meals and believe I’m a better cook for it.

Portions are generous and I often end up with lunch the next day much to the envy of workmates.

As for the fussy hubby, his plate is clean every night – a good sign.

However, he has remarked that he would like to see heartier, wintry meals, as opposed to fresh salads.

But I just love the vivid colours and eating healthier is effortless. Each recipe is accompanied by nutritional information for calories, carbs, protein, and fat. There are even wine matches for discerning wine drinkers.

The ultimate in convenience, affordability, and health, this brilliant concept ticks all the right boxes – now, that’s our kind of bag!

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| september 2013 | 53 eastlife533 7810 E513030-v3

eastlife | pantry

Taste

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

Get Ready-to-Roll with Queen Icing!

Queen Fine Foods has again come to the aid of home bakers with its new range of Ready-to-Roll icings.

Famous for its vanilla products, essences and icing decorations, Queen’s new, handy icing packs are easy to use and look fantastic on cupcakes, cookies and cakes. Available in Classic White or a Coloured pack featuring three colours – red, black and yellow – simply open the pack, knead the icing and start to roll.

Queen Ready-to-Roll Classic White Icing (600g) RRP $7.49 and Queen Ready-to-Roll Coloured Icing (375g) RRP $7.49 available at participating supermarkets.

New Fresh Up Apple & Nectarine Fruit Drink!

Summer’s coming and when the heat’s on, the best way to quench your thirst is with new Fresh Up Apple & Nectarine fruit juice drink. This delicious fruit drink is just one of the new flavours from iconic juice brand, Fresh Up. New Fresh Up Apple & Nectarine fruit drink contains 24% juice; other new flavours are Harvest Red Apple, Apple & Pineapple and Apple & Sum…Ahh Fruits. But, if old habits die hard, there’s still those favourite originals, the Fresh Up Classic range, including Apple & Orange and Crisp Apple – 100% juice and delicious! New Fresh Up fruit juice drinks start at 355ml (RRP $2.50), 500ml (RRP $3), 1L bottle (RRP $2.59) and 3L (RRP $4.99). Available from supermarkets nationwide.

stocked with flavour New Zealand Masterchef judge Simon Gault has been busy in the commercial kitchen and now his Simon Gault Home Cuisine range of stocks is available in four fabulous flavours - No Bull Beef; Don’t be Chicken; Farmers Market worth of Veggies and, coming in October, Off the Hook Fish. These quality concentrates come in a 100ml pouch which makes 2 litres or 8 cups of mouthwatering stock. Once open the stocks last in the fridge for 3 to 4 weeks and can also be frozen. Gluten-free, with no added preservatives, no added salt and no MSG, they are also 99% fat-free. Available at Countdown and FreshChoice supermarkets; 100ml pouch – RRP $5.99.

Coffee to sweep you off your feet

Now, that’s a smart cookie!

Mmm, a scrumptious baked treat has come out of the oven meaning pregnant mums, healthy dads, and clever kids can have their cookies and eat them too! The Totally Devoted cookie range is wheat and dairy free, contains bundles of essential vitamins and minerals, is low GI, and delicious!

• Pregnancy Cookie – A unique mix of herbs, chia seeds and ginger helps reduce effects of morning sickness.

• Feeding Cookie – An age-old herbal remedy of fenugreek and fennel helps promote healthy lactation.

• Clever Cookie – This brain-boosting combination of linseed, ginkgo, biloba and bacopa helps enhance memory and increases circulation.

• Family Cookie – contains immunity-boosting properties thanks to kawakawa leaf extract and blackcurrant syrup.

RRP $5-5.95. Available at selected health food shops.

54 | eastlife | september 2013

When you don’t have the time to visit a cafe, wait for the plunger to do its thing, or have a fancy coffee machine in your home or at work, what do you do?

You make yourself a cup of Avalanche coffee of course! Full of flavour, Avalanche Duo, combines freeze-dried instant coffee and finely milled roast and ground coffee beans. The end result is a cup of delicious coffee with full-bodied taste and a rich aroma. Available in medium and dark roasts at supermarkets nationwide. RRP $9.49 (100g jar), with 90g refill packs available.

making soup of mushrooms Some may think of mushroom soup as a rustic dish, however it turns out, when prepared by some, it’s actually a work of art, or Artisano, at least! Rich and creamy, Mama’s Portobello Mushroom Soup (RRP $4.99), by Artisano is easy to prepare, filling and nutritious too. Recently making a meal of this, along with a fresh baked loaf from Bread and Butter Bakery and Cafe, an EastLife team member served up a magical meal to his missus. Unfortunately, said femme saw through his hocus pocus because she knew that’s how Mama makes it! www.eastlife.co.nz

recipe | eastlife

Salmon carpaccio with manuka honey dressing Serves 4

Ajay Zalte – executive chef, Novotel Auckland International Airport. Ajay is a Pakuranga resident and has worked in leading hotels and first class restaurants worldwide.

INGREDIENTS: • 360 grams Ora king salmon fillet (skin out/boneless ) • 1 tsp dill • 2 tsp diced carrot • 2 tsp diced cucumber • 2 tsp diced red radish • 3 tbsp Manuka honey • 5 grams crushed garlic • 5 grams finely chopped ginger • 1 tbsp palm sugar • 1 tbsp coriander leaves ( finely chopped ) • 1 tbsp lime juice • Salt and pepper to taste

When Jet Park Hotel management put aside one day for staff members and their families to decorate cupcakes in support of the SPCA national Cupcake Day, EastLife’s own ‘cupcake queen’ Natalie Brittan joined the party.

Jet Park’s kitchen team, headed by executive chef, Nancye Pirini, baked 1200 cupcakes, which were then decorated by participants. All decorative materials were provided by the hotel and the cupcakes were then sold on behalf of the SPCA at Jet Park’s Takapuna stand on Cupcake Day itself. The cakes sold in no time.

METHOD: Season the salmon fillet and rub with dill. Roll salmon fillet in plastic cling wrap and freeze for one to two hours.

In a small bowl add ginger, garlic,

pet project

palm sugar, honey, lime juice and finely chopped coriander; whisk and season. Thinly slice the salmon fillet and arrange it on the plate.

Toss the vegetables together and place in the middle of the salmon carpaccio. Drizzle the dressing on top of the salmon and serve.

• Above, EastLife writer, Natalie Brittan (left) and Jet Park receptionist Janelle McClintock, from Bucklands Beach do their bit for Cupcake Day.

A stylish restaurant and bar, with great atmosphere and cosy fireplace featuring delicious Thai cuisine.

Dinner 7 nights from 5.30pm Easy parking nearby Private function room Fully licensed/BYOW Cosy fireplace 590 Dominion Rd, Balmoral Ph 09 638 9516 www.tusk.co.nz E510136

www.eastlife.co.nz

E513101

eastlife | september 2013 |

55

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FROG PUDDLES Childcare Centre

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Under two‛s – small group of eight children taken care of by a team of three wonderful, nurturing, qualified teachers Over two‛s – a dedicated and professional teaching team offering interesting and varied learning experiences which support children‛s growth and development

Warm and friendly homely environment Call us now to arrange a visit Ph 537 5744 www.frogpuddles.co.nz 1 Dianne Louise Dr, Half Moon Bay

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The perfect reminder of everything Howick. 100% cotton teatowel. Buy one for yourself, give to friends or send abroad.

Unique Venue For Hire The perfect setting for your next intimate party or business gathering.

Available from Times Newspapers, 50 Stonedon Drive, East Tamaki. Phone 271 8000

We welcome you to view at 186 Wellington St, Howick.

Ph 535 1397 Fax 535 1497 www.howicklounge.co.nz

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(Limited Spaces) Above regulations ratio

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 Prenzel of Botany, Shop 21 Town Centre Drive, Botany Town Centre Munn’s the Man’s Store, 451 Ti Rakau Dr

56 | eastlife | september 2013

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 Country Theme, Homebase Botany, 2 Bishop Croke 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

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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 | september 2013 |

57

MOTORING Under the matte

EastLife motoring correspondent ALISTAIR DAVIDSON checks out BMWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s M6 Gran Coupe

Calling a four-door sedan a coupe just seems wrong. A coupe has two doors.

Prestige brands stick â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Granâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in front of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Coupeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to try and justify it, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a four-door that looks like a coupe, albeit with a useable rear seat.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to say that BMWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s M6 Gran Coupe isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t good looking; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sensationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; immediately springs to mind. Unique M sculpted wheel arches and gorgeous 20â&#x20AC;? M double spoke wheels enhance Gran Coupeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already stunning proďŹ le.

M6 is the kind of car that anyone could get in and drive (apart from the price barrier), yet it will also reward an enthusiastic driver with performance thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost mind numbing.

Add slightly more aggressive frontal styling and a carbon ďŹ bre â&#x20AC;&#x201C; yes, carbon ďŹ bre â&#x20AC;&#x201C; roof and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got something pretty special going on.

With a chassis thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basically M5 in size and conďŹ guration, M6 Gran Coupe has the same stonking 412kW, 680Nm twin turbo 4.4-litre V8 under its long bonnet. With most of those 680Nms available from just off idle, acceleration is linear and relentless.

And while you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really pick it from inside, it sounds damn sexy in the process.

M6 Gran Coupe is BMWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ&#x201A;agship, which is reďŹ&#x201A;ected in the hefty $281,000 ($273,100 plus options) price tag. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also reďŹ&#x201A;ected in the superb interior.

Whether you want to explore the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s limits (youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d need a racetrack to ďŹ nd them) or impress your pals with the occasional straight line squirt, M6 Gran Coupe wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint.

Although performance orientated (it is part of the legendary â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Stable after all), the roomy cabin is a lesson in luxury and good taste, with a bit of daring thrown in for good measure.

The driver can either deliver his passengers to the golf course in a relaxed manner, or scare them silly,

M6 is a near perfect blend of luxury, technology and performance, without compromise. If you have a spare quarter-of-a-million-plus in your back pocket, order a M6 Gran Coupe with the optional $7000 matte paint; it highlights the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lines like you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe.

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58 | eastlife | september 2013

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- PUKEKOHE - MANUKAU eastlife | september 2013 | 59 - BOTANY E510107

REAL

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At RE/MAX our professional agents will take the time to guide you through the entire process, help resolve any issues that come up and ensure that your home sells for the optimum price in a timely manner. Because taking real care of our clients is something we've always taken pride in.

Another great Reason to go with RE/MAX Thinking of selling your property in the near future?

Discover a new love of professionalism, insight and understanding and contact one of our Local RE/MAX agents today.

Call:

David Hilliam 021 925 996

Rob Hewison 021 284 3629

Graeme Kidd 021 0824 0061

RE/MAX Zest (Howick) 3/15 Cook Street, Howick ph. 09 538 0020

RE/MAX Zest (Remuera) 322 Remuera Road, Remuera ph. 09 524 5242

E512053

Matt Clark 0273 811 733