EastLife December 2015 by Times Media

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

eastlife.co.nz

December 2015/January 2016

DISHING

up summer

HIGH STAKES

racewear

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

MREINZ

total focus

Issue Thirty one

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Welcome to Issue 31 of Eastlife

Seeing Is Believing 1/58 Union Road, Howick The scene is set for hot summer days lazing on the veranda, or maybe a snooze under the Cherry tree. Dining outdoors is a breeze with easy flow through French doors from your dining and kitchen. Or maybe relaxing around the fire is more your style, either way this home ticks lots of boxes. Call to view now

Another year comes to a close. And what a year its been in the real estate market. At Total Focus we have some super homes available for you, with something for everyone. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous and happy 2016. We hope you will take some time out to enjoy a break with friends and family over the holiday season. Until next year, take care. Leigh

For Sale Negotiation Bath

Car

Ref: TFP38092 Leigh Roy 021 646 565

Greg Roy 0274 966 966

Crème de la crème - The Penthouse Apartment 201/24 Wellington Street, Howick Often sought, seldom found this luxurious top floor, corner suite with wrap around decking really does not get much better. Beautifully presented with attention to detail and situated in the very heart of the village. This home will easily exceed your expectations, so don't waste another day, sell the lawnmower, get rid of the pool boy and start living the life you deserve.

$879,000

QUOTE OF THE MONTH “The thing about Christmas is that it almost doesn't matter what mood you're in or what kind of a year you've had - it's a fresh start.” Kelly Clarkson

Bed

Bath

Car

Ref: TFP38091 Leigh Roy 021 646 565

Greg Roy 0274 966 966

The Beach House 16 Churchill Road, Cockle Bay Situated high above Cockle Bay we have stumbled across a rather dishy little number. Totally understated from the road this is a home that will truly captivate you from the moment you step through the front door. A true entertainers dream with pretty sea views, and a simply stunning pool. Don’t wait - let us show you around today.

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

For Sale by Auction (usp)

Merry Christmas from the team!

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Bed

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

David Prescott 021 821 131

2 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

111 Picton Street, Howick

Bed

Bath

Car

Ref: TFP38086 Leigh Roy 021 646 565

Greg Roy 0274 966 966

The “Real Estate Specialists”

Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Paul Charlesworth 027 280 9551

Karen Dawson 538 0151

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

RW1231-v7

on the cover

Year races to end Unbelievably, this is the last edition of EastLife for 2015 and the next isn’t until February but hopefully we have packed enough reading into this issue to keep readers occupied over early summer.

Fashion filly: This eye-catching outfit is our hot favourite for Auckand’s Summer Racing Carnival, a sure-fire winner in the fashion stakes. Bold, floral and vibrant, it’s the kind of frontrunner that pays dividends. So, take a punt, head for the races in your finest livery over the coming weeks and enjoy the atmosphere. Cover Credits: Photographer: Award winning international fashion photographer James Saunders www.jrs-photographer.com Dress & Coat: Designer, Ingrid Brook Hat: Roz Willmott-Dalton Design Milliner Makeup & Hair: Coutoa Makeup Model: Tayla from Denyse Saunders Model Management www.dsmodelmanagement.nz

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Bev Drake 09 271 8092, bev@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz Photography: Wayne Martin Manager: Karla Wairau 09 271 8083, karla@eastlife.co.nz Managing Director: Reay Neben 09 271 8012, reayn@eastlife.co.nz Publisher: Times Newspapers Ltd Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine DISCLAIMER: Articles published in EastLife do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times Newspapers Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Newspapers Ltd.

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It’s been quite a year and the magazine has featured some fascinating locals from many walks of life. We hope readers have enjoyed the chance to win some great monthly prizes, have appreciated beauty and fashion updates and have taken time to try some of our recipes. We end the year on a high note with a focus on the fun side of summer racing at Ellerslie, which carries over from December through January – if you’ve never been to the races, make a date this year.

strongly debated these past months, we thought it timely to ask people in the know what they thought of the year that’s been and to speculate on the year ahead. Managers from five local Barfoot & Thompson branches have each answered some of our questions (see pages 72-73) and, happily, they are optimistic about the future on most property fronts. I, too, am extremely optimistic about our building project. So far, it’s been all fun perusing interior/ exterior trends although not nearly as much fun trying to decide where I can compromise. Fortunately, I’m fairly easy to please although I’m not compromising on the size of my wardrobe, the loos, a large walk-in shower and a scullery.

Whether you go all out to dress for the occasion and reserve a place in one of the fabulous hospitality locations or opt for leisurewear and the buzz of public areas, there’s sure to be plenty to get the adrenalin racing.

Come to think of it, there’s no budging me on the size of the lounge, the type of carpet I want or the internal laundry. Did I say I was easy to please? Oh well, I am sure the team at Signature Homes Pukekohe are adept at making clients’ wishes come true without us having to pay too high a price!

With the active property market

House and home aside, it’s now

time to let down the hair and enjoy the festive season and then take a few days to kick back, relax and rejuvenate. Because we cover this month and next, I first wish you all the blessings of Christmas and hope that this traditional family celebration will be full of joy and harmony. Then, as the festivities move to the New Year, I hope 2016 brings fresh challenges, renewed vigour and optimism for a more stable global future with cultural understanding and tolerance. I thank you all – readers and advertisers – for your support this past year; may you benefit from the season and prosper in the months ahead. Health, happiness and peace to all, Cheers

Helen Perry Editor

This month... 4-5 community calendar Sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson

6-7

interview

Mitre 10’s Easy As host nails our Q&A

8-11 OUT & ABOUT Town and around

12-13 interview Take a leaf out of author Lyn Bowring’s books

16-7 interview Going the rounds with an upcoming young boxer

18-32 Lifestyle • Local street history • Sydney showcase • Dress Up time comes to an end • Clevedon Show • Puzzle Time

Rolling out summer recipes, pg 48

33-45 health, beauty and fashion

• Going to the races? Dress to the nines • In the swim • Beauty counter

60-73 home • My favourite thing • Out of Europe • Realty leaders have their say • Regular columnists

46-59 food

74-77 business

• Cooking up a treat • Pizza please • A refreshing summer • Dining guide • Taste

• Right ‘Hon’ Key • Paying your dues

78-79 Motoring

• Boost for Mazda

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

December 2015 January 2016 ➤ Christmas Twilight Magic December 5, 6-9pm, Howick Historical Village, Lloyd Elsmore Park Bells Rd, Pakuranga Sinter Klaus is coming to town... or to our historical village at least. With music and dancing, a sing-a-long to Christmas carols, tasty treats and more than just a spot of shopping on offer, Howick Historical Village’s Twilight Magic is set to help us enjoy the festive spirit. More information see fencible.org.nz. Annual Santa Parade and Christmas@Sunkist December 5, midday-9pm, Sunkist Bay Reserve, Beachlands Don’t be a sad sack! Join Santa as he ho-ho-hos his way around Beachlands ahead of his Christmas commitments. Howick Library Christmas Morning Tea December 9, from 10am, Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Rd, Howick Designed to suit fans of baking and Christmas carols to a ‘tea’, this event celebrates the loyal support locals give our library throughout the year. For full details contact the library on 534 5301. MOTAT Nights Christmas Lights December 11-13 and 18-24, MOTAT, 805 Great North Rd, Western Springs With live entertainment and tram rides to traditional festive fare such as mulled wine, MOTAT is getting stuck into the Christmas spirit this month as the museum comes alive under lights. See motat.org.nz.

Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park December 12, from 7.30pm, Auckland Domain, Domain Dr, Grafton This annual, magical, musical extravaganza is set to pop once again and features Australian pop star, Jessica Mauboy, along with musicians, dancers, singers, a fireworks finale and more. Whether or not you’ll be home for Christmas, there’s still plenty of time for a little joy to the world before the day is come at this festive extravaganza! See coke.co.nz/christmas-in-the-park.

➤ christmas

Howick Santa Parade December 6, from 2.30pm, Picton St, Howick We love a parade, especially at Christmas, and parades don’t get

Pakuranga Choral Society – The Joy of Christmas December 13, from 2pm, All Saints Church, 17 Selwyn Rd, Howick Joy to the world, the saints are marching in! In the grand finale of the society’s 2015 season, guest conductor Lynne Anderson will lead an All Saints, all star line-up in a performance of Alan Wood’s cantata, This Joyous Night. Contact the society via pakchoral.org.nz for details.

Snow White & the 3½ Dwarfs December 18, 11am-1pm, The Picton Centre, 120 Picton St, Howick With Christmas around the corner, it can be tough finding seven hardworking thespians who can fit the bill as Snow White’s gallant entourage. However, while Operatunity may take short cuts during their ‘slightly twisted’ version of this popular panto’, audiences will certainly not be short changed when it comes to performance. See operatunity.co.nz.

A Very 80s Xmas December 17, from 8pm, The Howick Club, 107 Botany Rd, Howick Thursday evening will sound a lot like a (forever) Tuesday Morning, with a New Day Dawning as the Howick Club celebrates Christmas 1980s style. Featuring irrepressible Mockers’ frontman, Andrew Fagan, A Very 80s Xmas is set to remind us about a decade best forgotten... except for (some of) its music, that is. From Simple Minds and Duran Duran, to Bowie, Blondie and more, if you like pina coladas (yes, they’re on offer!) you’ll feel right at Home Again! See howickclub.co.nz.

The Frost Files December 18-23, Eastgate Christian Centre, 5 Ben Lomond Cres, Pakuranga While, (baby) it might not be cold outside in New Zealand during the festive season, thanks to the good folks at Eastgate, it’ll at least be a little Frost-y, although not of the snowman variety. Figured it out yet? If so, you’d be as suitable a sleuth as Detective Frost, the hero of this quirky walkthrough production. Join Frost and friends as they attempt to help a lost Wise (but obviously not too wise!) Man find his friends. For details see eastgatecc.org.nz.

4 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

much better than when locals deck the halls and sleigh ride their way down Picton Street. Do they know it’s Christmas? We do! See howicksantaparade.co.nz.

➤ sport & fitness Colour Dash December 6, 9am-2pm, Barry Curtis Park, 163 Chapel Rd, Flat Bush Dust off those running shoes and show your true colours in support of Ronald McDonald House. Essentially a 5km fun run or walk, this event has a major difference – participants are splashed with colourful dust along the way. See colourdash.co.nz. SRAM Tour de Ranges January 16, from 8am, starts and finishes at Clevedon A&P Showgrounds, 107 Monument Rd, Clevedon To predict who will be first across the line during this event would be foolish because, of course, the wheels still in spin. However, one thing’s for certain, cyclists from all walks of life and levels of ability (110km or 30km distances) are likely to enjoy the rolling hills of the Hunua Ranges, followed by the stunning sea views of the Hauraki Gulf as country roads lead them home. More information available at tourderanges.co.nz.

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Ellerslie summer season Dates and times vary, Ellerslie Racecourse and Event Centre, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera From Christmas and Boxing Day to New Year’s Day races, there’s plenty on track this summer. And don’t forget the Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Summer Series, or the highstakes, fast-paced action wrapped up in a million dollar party, which is the Karaka Million (January 24) either. With numerous events on offer, Ellerslie is the place to be! Full details of all events at ellerslie.co.nz. run for Breast cancer January 31, 10am-5pm, From Howick College, 25 Sandspit Rd, Howick In any race, it pays to (at least) keep abreast of the competition! Designed to raise funds to assist The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation, this event consists of a 5km run or walk followed by a sausage sizzle and raffle. Supporters are welcome to attend (and to wear pink), while participates should contact organisers via the school (Ph 534 4492) before January 10, as places are limited.

➤ MuSic & thEatrE auckland Mandolin orchestra December 6, from 3pm, Uxbridge Creative Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick Armed with a repertoire covering a wide variety of musical genres – from classical, baroque and ethnic/folk, to contemporary – the acclaimed Auckland Mandolin Orchestra is expected to deliver a performance of Captain Corellian proportions. Details at uxbridge.org.nz. i love Paris January 19, 11am-1pm, Picton Centre, 120 Picton St, Howick Those who love Paris in the springtime, will positively adore it in summer as Operatunity Daytime

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Concerts presents an event designed to transport us to a city where there’s much amour to adore! A ménage à quatre (of sorts) – comprising Cameron Barclay, Susan Boland, Bonaventure Allan-Moetaua, and violinist, Jessica Hindin – is expected to seduce, enchant and capture the essence of French passion in song. Details via daytimeconcerts.co.nz.

➤ fEtES, fairS & fEStivalS Summer in the Square December 2-20 and January 11 – February 19, Aotea Square, Queen St, Auckland City Come alive to scintillating sounds of live music and DJs, and enjoy a rich array of entertainment at the heart of the Super City this December. And, just to prove we can’t get enough of summer, the carnival atmosphere will resume in January. See aucklandlive. co.nz/summersquare. hunua village Summer fete December 6, 11am-5.30pm, YMCA Camp Adair, 2487 Hunua Rd, Hunua Do you dare to take on some of the YMCA camp’s toughest challenges?

Well, even if you lack the confidence, there’s plenty more to enjoy as Hunua’s Camp Adair opens its gates during its Summer Fete. From local entertainment to market stalls, games, Devonshire tea, a mudslide and more, your fete awaits! Call the camp (09 292 4886) for more details. auckland fair December 6, 10am-4pm, Shed 10, Queens Wharf, Auckland City Some may argue that nothing’s fair in Auckland, but they’d be wrong. Because, despite our traffic woes, overpriced and undersupplied housing market, runaway rates and extortionate water bills, we at least have the Auckland Fair at Queen’s Wharf to look forward to. Billed as one of the biggest design, art and craft markets in New Zealand, this event seems to offer a fair deal. Tickets $5. See aucklandfair.com.

➤ art green gables cottage art exhibition December 4-20, 10am-3pm (FridaySunday), Green Gables Cottage Art Gallery, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook St, Howick

➤ MarKEtS howick village Market Every Saturday, 8am-12.30pm, until further notice, Picton St, Howick classy crafts First and third Saturday of each month, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick 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

➤ MuSic

The Chills Echo festival January 11-12, Mahuhu Cres, Auckland City Having Martin Phillips dripping sweat on his audience is enough to give fans... The Chills – music enthusiasts of the Gluepot era, should know what we mean! But when this leather jacket-loving

Forget Anne of Green Gables, in December it’s all about artists Len Cullinane and Malcolm Booth, as their original artworks are exhibited for sale. With proceeds set to assist the South Auckland Totara Hospice, this exhibition offers a great chance to pick up original art for someone special this Christmas. Contact the gallery (via howickartgroup.org.nz/ green-gables) for details.

legend ‘Heavenly Pop Hit-s’ the vector stage he’s sure to inspire, as well as perspire. But there’s much more for music fans during this festival, which features more than 40 acts from the Flaming Lips to Mel Parsons, The Datsuns, and even Australia’s Alison Wonderland. See echofestival.co.nz for details.

Pakuranga night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm-12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza Botany night Market Every Wednesday night, 5.30-11pm, beneath Hoyts Cinema, Botany Town Centre alfriston country Market First Saturday of each month except January, 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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Q&A

with mitre 10’s

Stan Scott

If DIY really is in our DNA then Stan’s a man replete with the substance! Although originally from the Manawatu, Mitre 10’s DIY guru of television and web fame spent his formative years in east Auckland. This month, we posed a few questions to DIY’s great Scott.

In general, do Kiwis really have DIY in their DNA? Bloody oath they do! We come from a long line of hardworking do-ityourself people. Right from the first settlers, we’ve had a do-it-yourself or die attitude! Where did you attend school and were you good at woodwork, metalwork etcetera? When did you leave the area? I lived in the Manawatu until I was four, and then moved to the big smoke. I went to Riverina Primary school, then Pakuranga Intermediate and Edgewater College. I loved woodwork at school; it really was a great place to get creative. For example, one of my projects was coffin coffee table! I finished my apprenticeship in Pakuranga, and then built about six houses out Botany way. I moved to Grey Lynn in about 1990 and bought a house with my flatmate. You’ve worked both in front of and behind the camera on numerous shows. How did you come to be involved with the TV industry and what shows have you worked on? I started working behind the scenes on many DIY shows a number of years ago, and then got the opportunity to be host/builder/presenter on DIY Rescue, The Fence and Trade Wars. I operated an underwater camera on Celebrity Treasure Island in Fiji and Island Wars in the Cook Islands. I also worked as a builder and third camera on a stunt/adventure show Going Straight, as a builder/project manager and second camera on The Palino Job and have been a lighting assistant on a multi-million dollar movie and camera assistant on the NZ drama series, Burying Brian. What have been the highlights, and any new shows in the pipeline? One of my highlights was building

sets on a deserted, tropical island in Fiji for Celebrity Treasure Island. I was on the island for two months as a builder and underwater cameraman; it was a one-in-a-million job! An on-screen highlight? Geese, that would be hard to say, but I did have a lot of fun on What Now many years ago. As for shows in future, Mitre 10’s keeping me pretty busy for now!

Mitre 10’s DIY guy and host of Easy As Stan Scott.

Photos supplied

Despite 30 years’ experience as a builder, have you now well and truly ‘gone Hollywood’? Definitely not! I’m much more a builder than a TV guy. My role with Mitre 10 does means I’m not building full time, but it’s really the dream job – I get to meet lots of people, teach adults and children to build and I still work on great building projects. While I’m not building as much as I used too, I’ve not given it up. How did you become presenter of Easy As and how successful has it become? I had a call from a former colleague who now works at TVNZ. I wasn’t actually sure what the role entailed and thought it was for a one-off advert. I’m told they picked me as I’m a genuine builder who could talk about the job while doing it at the same time. Mitre 10 Easy As has been successful because it’s a really helpful way for people to find the information they want. Kiwis have a ‘can do’ attitude and generally want to have a go at DIY, but they might be a bit unsure of how to tackle

6 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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How popular are Mitre 10’s Ladies’ Nights, and, in general, how good are Kiwi ladies at DIY?

What’s planned for future episodes of Easy As?

They’re hugely popular! Often 5001000, ladies show up. Many are really capable, and those that aren’t or are lacking in confidence are really willing and eager to have a go and learn.

You name it, we’re doing it! At the moment we’re shooting: how to attach a pergola to your house, how to make exposed aggregate pavers, how to put up guttering, and loads more.

Mitre 10 is sponsoring a Ladies’ DIY Championship at the Rural Games in

SUMMER OF DIY 1399

If you could be Minister of Housing for one day, what would you do first and why?

It’s a search for the nation’s top female DIYer. We know women stack up to the blokes with DIY, but sometimes they lack confidence, and because it’s typically been a male domain, some of the guys aren’t quite ready to move over and let the ladies show off their abilities. We’re hoping to showcase Kiwi ladies’ skills and we reckon the Rural Games is a great place to do this.

Make it mandatory that every house has a W.O.F, so everyone would be living in a warm, dry, healthy house.

189

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Truper Chalk Box Set

Truper 12” Industrial Hacksaw Frame

$ 99 Truper Metal-Base Revolving Sprinkler

3 rotary aluminium arms. Work pressure: 40PSI to 50PSI. 990941

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4999

Truper 4-Tine Spading Fork

Truper 2 in 1 Fibreglass Shovel/Edger

30 inch North American ash lacquered handle with D-grip for balance and control. Clear-coated grey-steel finished heads. 990507

Cnr Te Irirangi Drive & Bishop Dunn Place Phone 09 272 8777 megabotany.co.nz

Mitre 10 MEGA Henderson

186 Lincoln Road Phone 09 836 7700 megahenderson.co.nz

Opening Hours

Includes bimetal 18tpi blade. Durable and lightweight aluminium frame. Injected TPR handle. Allows 45” and 90° blade positioning. 990803

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Mitre 10 MEGA Botany

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Truper Magnetic Torpedo Level

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Lastly, my granddad – or, as we called him, ‘Grumps’. He passed away about 30 years ago; he was one good bloke! He could fix anything, could arm wrestle giants, had hands like spades, feared nothing and loved his grandkids!

936029

Bob Dylan, because he has written pretty much the best songs and lyrics of all time – I’m not sure we would get a huge conversation out of him, but you never know.

Mate, I can’t wait; she’s gonna be a ripper! It will be so much fun with heaps for the public to have a go at. The Running of the Wools is a must see and, because [former legendary axeman David] ‘Sonny’ Bolstad was my hero growing up, I will be watching a fair bit of wood chopping. The gumboot throwing will also be lots of fun.

$ 99 Includes chalk line reel, chalk and level set. High visibilty blue chalk. Length: 15m (50ft)

Bruce Springsteen, because he can entertain the guests and just because he rocks!

Are you looking forward to the games and what’s on your ‘must see’ list?

Rubber end caps for shock absorption, abrasion and impact resistant bubble vial. Length: 9inch (23cm).

If you could invite any three people (living or dead) to dinner, who and why?

Monday to Friday: 7.00am – 7.00pm Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: 8.00am – 6.00pm Late Nights: 7.00am – 9.00pm (Monday, 21 December to Wednesday, 23 December) Available from Monday 30 November, 2015 – Sunday 31 January, 2016, while stocks last. Stock may vary between stores.

KW0413

tasks. Easy As addresses this and helps people see their projects through successfully.

Queenstown over Waitangi weekend, which you will be hosting. What will this involve?

15 gauge, heavy-duty blade with extended step for comfort and control. Lifetime warranty. 991867

HENDERSON & BOTANY eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Thumbs up for Madness night Some say Midnight Madness 2015 was the best ever and the smiles of these happy shoppers, captured on camera by photographer, WAYNE MARTIN, confirm the buoyant mood that was evident throughout Howick village during the annual event. Visitors were entertained by a variety of performers and the precinct’s retailers reported a highly successful night.

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

saf d n a l

YOUR MONTHLY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE The EastLife office will be closed from Friday, December 18 and reopen on Monday, January 11.

a u o y ng

ishi

der n o w ll

8 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Be in our Febuary issue

Copy deadline January 20, 2016. Distributed first week of February

fashion week 2015 Auckland Fashion Week 2015, held at Alexandra Park, Greenlane, not only saw a turnout of fabulous garments on the catwalk but attracted a prestigious gathering to make it one of the most successful events this spring thanks to AFW founder and managing director Denyse Saunders. Photographer James Saunders was there to capture the action. 1. Sophy Chau, Fan Zhang, Shan Li 2. Jennifer Blakeman, Jo Creelman, Melanie Vink 3. Campbell and Kirtsee Forlong 4. Nancy Nightshade 5. Prianka Govender 6. Ian and Kristin Sutherland

7. Johanna Neuhauser, Monika Neuhauser 8. Kate and Cameron Brewer 9. Ruth and Dr Robert Beulink 10. Denyse Saunders, Barry Doody, Dominique Dowding 11. Sobia Mughal

9 www.eastlife.co.nz

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vintage FASHION FUNDRAISER Old-fashioned hospitality from Coutts Mercedes-Benz in Newmarket, home of superb vehicle craftsmanship, provided the perfect environment for a vintage fashion exhibition by Hilaire to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Guests viewed a fascinating display of garments from the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, while also enjoying canapés, refreshment and a close up view of Mercedes-Benz models. 1. Trudy Ingham, Bruce and Jan Monk 2. Julie Carter 3. Claire Cooper 4. Jan Vetter, Tania Rupapera-Cuelho 5. Rose Jackson, Dean Gordon 6. Deirdre Ross Chris Sadler 7. Jenni Goulding, Judy Mitchell 8. Paris Mitchell , Malcolm and Lizzie Leuchars 9. Rose Jackson, Hilaire Field, Stacey Beatson

Christmas Collection Share the joy of the season with classic symbols – emblems of sweet bliss celebrating the spirit of Christmas. Ruby red, shiny sterling silver and traditional motifs evoke memories of cosy Christmas eves with family. There are also pretty bows, twinkly stars, stunning snowflakes, crystallised florals and sparkling icicles. Pandora Botany has everything to make your Christmas shopping a breeze.

Kiosk SPK103, The Pavillion, Botany Town Centre Ph 278 5550 • www.facebook.com/pandorabotany RW1347-v2

10 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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an instinct for beauty The opening of sophisticated new nail studio, Beauty Instinct, brings a taste of Parisienne splendour to Chapel Rd, Flat bush. Owner, Nutthida Boonprasert has delivered an elegant environment in which clients can relax and be pampered. When guests turned out to celebrate the opening, photographer WAYNE MARTIN was there too. 1. Nathan Wong, Michelle Jamieson, Anirudh Bansal, SurJit Dhaliwal 2. Nutthida Boonprasert, Cheryl Cooke 3. Charlotte Barrow, Sheryl Castell 4. Lina Idham, Eliza Lam, View Boonprasert 5. Diane Fisken, Anna Cullen 6. Karyn McGrath, Ian Taylor 7. Gill Bradley, Chris Taylor, Nutthida Boonprasert, Rob Fasher

KIDS ACTIVITY CENTRE! Safe, Secure, Supervised. PROUD TO BE LOCAL pakurangaplaza.co.nz

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Visit our secure, supervised and, most importantly, fun activity centre for children ages 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11 years. Bring the kids in for up to an hour of entertainment so you can concentrate on your Christmas shopping (or just have a coffee break!).

Mon - Fri, 7 - 24 December 10am - 2.30pm, $2 per child Next to Sierra Cafe in mall. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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From paper dreams comes print success Lyn Bowring aka Rochelle Carlton spends most of her day keeping 60 acres, five horses, three dogs (sometimes puppies too) and five cats as well as countless chickens in good fettle. But for an hour or two she escapes to her office to attend to ‘paperwork – not the accounts or tax but still paperwork. Three years ago the 54 year old mother of two adult children, dog breeder, and two cats shy of being officially labelled a cat lady, began penning her first book. “I’d been very involved with my daughter’s interest in competitive western riding and, of course, spent a lot of time outdoors on the land. I found I was busy but not thinking – I needed brain stimulation. So one day I said I’d write a book.” With a vague outline in mind, Lyn started on her writing regime although she says there were times she felt out of her depth with the size of the emerging novel. But two years down the track she finally finished The Quilt Unravelled, written under the pen name of Rochelle Carlton – a combination of her children’s middle names. Elated at achieving what she set out to do, Lyn decided to self-publish through Amazon. “I’d gone into it [writing] very blunt, very naive. I just assumed someone [a publisher] would come along, see the book, like it and want to buy it. But it’s not like that at all.” But even when publishing with global online book giant, Amazon, there were many challenges. “Firstly, I was shocked by the number of people out there willing to give ‘advice’ for a reasonably hefty sum. On investigation it seemed, to me, that sums quoted were almost impossible to recuperate especially as books on Amazon sell mostly for between $4 and $12 dollars and from that the author receives only a percentage of monies.” Lyn says, luckily, she stepped away quickly but has seen other budding authors invest as much as $7000 in marketing with only small returns. “When I started I just thought, ‘yes,

12 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

put my books on Amazon and they’ll sell.’ Then I realised there were tens of millions of books on the site and that it was very hard to attracts readers and buyers. But when 90,000 page reads in a month put Lyn’s first book number one on the World Literature: Australia and Oceania category for several weeks she was elated. “However, that can change by the day so I was extremely lucky to maintain the position for two to three weeks. But, this is best achieved if one can invest in some legitimate advertising and bring a book to the attention of readers.” Having learnt much from her first book, a saga which took two years to complete, it took some time before Lyn felt ready to embark on a second novel. “When I first started writing again I had to stop, I just hadn’t got my head out of The Quilt. Walking away from that book, which took such a lot of me, was like breaking up from a relationship. I had to give it time and get away for a bit before starting over.” In hindsight Lyn says The Quilt Unravelled, set in New Zealand, as is second book Crumbs to Caviar, could have been fine-tuned a bit more but, nevertheless, it has received positive comment. “Crumbs to Caviar is quite different. A romantic suspense, set in New Zealand, it took just under 12 months to complete and is the first in a series of five.” Impressively, Crumbs hit number one for page reads in the same World Literature: Australia and Oceania category as her first book, just two weeks after its October publication. Lyn adds she has particularly appreciated the mentoring of Beachlands cartoonist and author, Dylan Horrocks and also the talents of graphic arts director, Clare McGillivray who has designed the covers for both books. While both The Quilt Unravelled and Crumbs to Caviar have, in terms of Amazon’s huge library of books, met with success, Lyn warns that writing,

self-publishing and marketing is no walk on a Pohutukawa Coast beach. “Fitting writing in with my lifestyle has been quite difficult. I try to sit down daily but that’s not always realistic yet if you aren’t disciplined, it’s easy to fall out of the habit. Then, when you finally finish you can’t just pop it on to Amazon and expect big results. “And, if you go into this thinking it’s an easy way to make money or a quick route to becoming a well known author, it’s not.” While commending the Amazon team for its helpfulness and huge support throughout the whole process, Lyn admits she should have done more research – “I realise now a marketing plan is essential.” “There are definitely ways to become better promoted – other than paying someone heaps of money that can’t be recouped – but it still costs and the monetary rewards can be slow.” Despite her cautionary words, Lyn is not one to be easily deterred. She clearly recalls a high school English teacher halting her literary aspirations with scathing comments on a piece written by Lyn. “She told me young girls of my age didn’t use words, like that, implying it was someone else’s work or influence. I was devastated because it just wasn’t true and what’s more she was virtually calling me a cheat.” It took the young scribe some time to get over that rejection but in the end self-belief won out over teacher cynicism although Lyn says she still doesn’t truly think of herself as an author. “It’s not that I’m not proud of my work but as a new self-publishing author I feel my books haven’t reached that status required by a publishing company before they are picked up by them. “While this may, of course, not even be true – there are so many authors, so many books, and obviously not enough publishers and buyers to go around – until I achieve that extra step I’m a writer.” www.eastlife.co.nz

Photo Wayne Martin

EastLife editor HELEN PERRY has a long career in journalism, her work covering many genres but never once, despite the urgings of others, has she considered writing a book. So when she encountered a two-time Beachlands author who fits in writing between a myriad of chores, she was full of admiration.

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WIN! A COPY OF THE QUILT UNRAVELLED AND CRUMBS TO CAVIAR – Eastlife has a copy of both of these books to give away to one lucky reader. To enter the draw visit www.eastlife.co.nz. Click on the competition link and complete the form. One entry per email address/person; entries close January 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Photo Wayne Martin

lyn bowring

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.eastlife.co.nz click on the competitions link and fill in the form. One entry per email address / person; entries close January 31, 2015. Winners notified by phone or email.

WIN! NATURAL INSTINCT BEAUTY BOX If your instinct for luck is working you could be in to win this gorgeous gift box of Natural Instinct skin care products which can be shared by the whole family. Powered by active anti-ageing, plant-based ingredients and 100% free of toxic chemicals all Natural Instinct’s face, body, hand, hair, baby and sensitive skin products are animal friendly and 100% vegan. Packaged in recyclable materials they are available at selected pharmacies, health food stores, grocery and department stores but our fabulous Natural Instinct prize includes 125ml Facial Scrub, 110ml Foaming Cleanser, 125ml Cream Cleanser, 25 Hydrating Cleansing Facial Wipes, 125ml Moisturiser, 110ml Night Cream and 25ml Rosehip Oil.

WIN! HANDCRAFTED PLANTERS FROM COLLECTED When gardens go to pot then it’s time to pot your garden especially when outdoor space is limited or full-on gardening just too arduous. And thanks to Collected in Mt Eden, EastLife has two fabulous hand-crafted ceramics pots up for grabs. Standing 17cm high and 16cm in diameter, these black and white striped beauties will look great indoors or out. Enter our draw or to see more on novel containers from Collected turn to page 66.

Win! La Mav Cranberry Bio Exfoliating Scrub Providing simply Mav-ellous skincare, La Mav’s Cranberry Bio Exfoliating Scrub is designed to ensure skin remains silky smooth all summer long. Formulated with bamboo and cranberry seeds (which remove excess oil, dirt and impurities without upsetting natural pH balance), this cleansing facial scrub helps avoid those all-too-common warmer day breakouts. And, thanks to Ascophyllum nodosum (seaweed) extract, skin should feel dewy and soft. This certified organic scrub is available (RRP $36.95/60ml tube) at Health 2000 stores and other selected retail outlets. However, EastLife has FOUR tubes up for grabs!

Win! A TORUS dog bowl

Win! A Maraca fragrant candle The nose knows what it likes, and when the EastLife team caught a whiff of this delightful scented candle our minds (as opposed to our noses) were blown! Although those with good ‘scents’ have long recognised how certain aromas can affect our moods, these fragrant candles from Maraca New Zealand are sure to enlighten even the most sceptical sorts. Available in a wide range of scents, these luminous lovelies are available (RRP $49.95-$54.95) from pharmacies, specialty stores or via maracanewzealand. com. What’s more, EastLife has a Maraca Roseraie scented candle up for grabs.

Here’s a product canines will be salivating over like dogs in heat! Water in conventional bowls can dry up fast under the summer sun and needs to be regularly replenished. However, because TORUS bowls store water in their reservoir walls and automatically dispenses it to the bowl, working dogs and pampered pooches alike can access clean, cold, filtered H2O when needed. EastLife has one of these NZ-designed bowls (RRP $59.95) to give away.

Win! Big-leaf Rhododendrons Enjoying gorgeous blooms can almost be a religious experience for many, and this is especially true since the release of Big-leaf Rhododendrons by Glyn Church and Graham Smith. In this good book, big-leafed beauties abound, complete with detailed descriptions and advice by a pair of renowned rhododendron experts. Versatile and evergreen, with bountiful foliage, big-leaf species (Falconera and Grandia) take centre stage in this book proving great things come in big packages too! • Glyn Church and Graham Smith: Big-leaf Rhododendrons – Growing the giants of the genus | RRP $59.99 | David Bateman

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 14 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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Focused pugilist on the brawl Even champions need to start somewhere. This month, JON RAWLINSON provides a blow by blow account of a recent bout (interview) with an up-andcoming boxer as quick of wit as he is with his fists.

Big, burly, sweaty, Rocky, Mountain men may appear stock and trade in the ‘squared circle’, but Pakuranga’s Rakai Kirkwood Junior, doesn’t fit this ‘box’. Instead, the determined fighter explains that success in his sport begins and ends as much with the top two inches as with the clenched mitt. “Boxing really is like a chess match, only you’re getting punched hard in the face at the same time!” he quips. “It’s not all physical; it’s a combination of physical and mental agility and endurance. I perform better when I’m in a good mental state and boxing is all about performance.” Unfortunately, a checkmate wasn’t on the board for this 16-year-old at the recent New Zealand National Championships. With the tournament scheduled to begin the same day as a big exam (IGCSE ‘Cambridge’ exam in Information and Communications Technology), he was unable to attend and defend his national title. “It was a bit of a letdown, but exams are what are important right now. I had no say in it; otherwise I might have skipped my exam!” he laughs. “But I know it’s important and what mum says goes, so I didn’t [put up much of a fight]. And, without education, what would I have to fall back on?” I ask about career plans but before the question can be qualified with, ‘aside from boxing,’ the former Pakuranga Heights student beats me to the punch:

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In the ring you’re on your own. When rugby players get tired, they can pass the ball to their mates, but in boxing every decision is up to you... it all comes down to you or the other fulla doing the business in the end.”

“In the ring you’re on your own. When rugby players get tired, they can pass the ball to their mates, but in boxing every decision is up to you. Coaches can help you prepare but, in the end, it all comes down to you or the other fulla doing the business.” First lacing up the gloves approximately six years ago, Rakai – now attending Destiny School in Manukau – learnt the ropes from a more than able ex-amateur New Zealand champ, Caine Warren, with the help of his father, Rakai Kirkwood senior. “Dad used to do kickboxing; he’s a fan of fighting, but I was actually quite soft growing up. I started boxing because he wanted me to, but came to love it straight away,” he says. “When [Destiny] church pastor, Caine Warren, opened a boxing gym and dad took me along, it all went from there. Caine’s had plenty to teach me since.” Having a father as coach can cause some conflict in the Kirkwood house, he adds.

“Boxing! I would like to open a business when I’m older – anything to do with chocolate or sweets. As we have to make weight constantly, most fighters tend to be addicted to food!”

“He tries to switch from coach to dad at home, but that doesn’t always work. He’ll tell me I can’t skateboard in case I get injured, or I shouldn’t eat this or that, so we’ve had some fights. But it’s not a problem, really.

Overall, Rakai says it is the one-onone nature of the sport which he enjoys most.

“When you wholeheartedly dedicate yourself to boxing, it becomes your life; there’s no overlap, it just is.”

16 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

Rakai Kirkwood Junior www.eastlife.co.nz

Upstart’s fight stuff Whether or not Pakuranga’s Rakai Kirkwood Junior has what it takes to foot it with the pros remains to be seen. However, this rising star’s commitment is beyond question and his goals are clear. Primed by a string of successes, including three national titles, Australasian Golden Gloves’ gold (2013) and silver (2014) and numerous regional wins, the young lightweight is confident of selection in the New Zealand team for next year’s AIBA World Boxing Championships. However, during his first ‘Worlds’ in Saint Petersburg, Russia (September this year), Rakai fell victim to a split decision against Czech, Adam Trncak; victory was not on the cards that time round. “I was disappointed; it was probably the worst feeling ever, especially knowing I was so close, actually winning on one of the [three] judges’ scorecards. In a way, winning can [get old], but losing never gets any easier, that’s for sure!” But he says the tournament provided a valuable learning experience. “I definitely learnt from it. I pick up things from other boxers all the time: training styles, ways to throw punches, mindsets too, and attitudes. Every boxer is different, though, so I tend to take on board techniques that work for me. It’s going to be a different story next time.” Rakai will need to be selected for the next world championships, again in Russia, in the Youth, rather than Junior grade. Should he continue to meet with success, the prospect appears likely. And he is already considering Commonwealth or (possibly) Olympic Games laurels and even a professional career. “That’s the plan; I’ll just be old enough to compete [aged 18] at the Commonwealths. I’d probably turn pro’ even if I can’t win medal, but it is important achievement to reach before turning pro’. “Until then, I’ll be building towards Russia, and looking at training camps overseas, mainly in Aussie and America. My coach will sort all that out, though; I’ll just stick to the boxing.” www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 | Photo Wayne Martin

Essentials wraPPing uP chriStMaS further 10 per cent discount for Eastlife readers! While New Zealand basks in summer sun, the northern hemisphere shivers! Those sending gifts to colder climes will find a superb selection of Possumdown Knitwear – garments and accessories – at The Factory Knitwear Shop, East Tamaki. This gorgeous jacket hints at Maori culture in which the Korowai cloak is described as a ‘mantle of prestige’. The fabric’s drape and texture, teamed with a luxurious black possum fur collar, emulating the feathers of the Korowai style, is a sophisticated garment for most occasions. Fasten two ways or wear open for casual appeal. See full range at The Factory Knitwear Shop. nEw aDDrESS: 59b Sir william ave, East tamaki. weekdays 9am till 4.30pm, Saturdays 9am-2pm Ph 09 273 9669; www.possumdown.co.nz

guylian original chocolatE SEa ShEllS with PralinE filling The World’s Favourite Belgian Chocolate Sea Shells. Each carefully crafted sea shell is a bend of delicious white, milk and dark Belgian chocolate, made from the finest cocoa beans and filled with the delicious Guylian roasted praline. Perfectly sculptured into delicate seashell shapes, these distinctive marbled chocolates are the favourites of chocolate connoisseurs everywhere.

thE StarS arE out frEE gift! receive a sterling silver freshwater pendant (worth $60) frEE with any purchase of $150 or more. while stocks last. one gift per customer per qualifying purchase. A precious treasure that she can wear every day, this glistening pearl pendant is a beautiful gift. This piece is crafted in sterling silver and features a shining white freshwater pearl. Pendant rests on a fine 45cm sterling silver chain. available at walker & hall Botany, Botany town centre. Ph 09 271 0390. www.walkerandhall.co.nz

BEautiful intEriorS

Plaza gift carD Give the gift of choice this Christmas from Pakuranga Plaza. Gift cards presented in small box with a choice of ribbons. Redeemable at participating stores throughout the Plaza and available from Customer Service. Pakuranga Plaza, cnr ti rakau Dr and Pakuranga rd, Pakuranga

MAS FAMILY HOW!

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FREE FACE

Give your home a fresh decor touch – Habitat can change your interior in a flash. Pictured right, are just a few ideas from our stunning range of instore products: Hand-Painted Bone Inlay Pattern Adwita Wood Cabinets $895; Stoneware Table Lamp with linen shade, white $175; Mandarin Glass vase, medium $66; Mandarin Glass vase, small $53. Shop 402, Pakuranga Plaza, cnr ti rakau Dr & Pakuranga rd, Pakuranga. Ph 09 576 5998. Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm, late night thursday 9am-9pm. www.homescene.co.nz

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

for all your chriStMaS EntErtaining & giftS!

a night out with aucKlanD thEatrE coMPany Surprise someone with a night at the theatre this Christmas! Auckland Theatre Company’s 2016 season has just been released and gift vouchers are available for individual shows or season passes. Some of the season highlights are the stage version of Harper Lee’s classic To Kill a Mockingbird, another hilarious comedy from Roger Hall – You Can Always Hand Them Back – and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time. for vouchers or a free 2016 subscription brochure ph 09 309 3395 or visit www.atc.co.nz

New items and super specials in store now – beautiful complimentary gift wrapping. For the best selection of dinnerware, glassware, linen, kitchenware and cookware, gifts and NZ’s largest range of quality cutlery (stainless and silver). Dedication to service, combined with fantastic parking right outside the door, makes The Studio of Tableware Auckland’s easiest and most enjoyable shopping experience. 5 harold St, Mt Eden, Ph 09 638 8082 www.thestudio.co.nz

nEw froM zEalanD – thE PlacE to inDulgE! Stock up your pantry with festive foods or fulfill a loved one’s wildest foodie dreams with a gourmet gift basket, award-winning, premium wines, spirits and liqueurs, honey for your honey, superior beauty and health products such as Clean Paleo, Manuka Crunch and Royal nectar masks at wholesale prices, infused oils and culinary concentrates from Love Manuka, Prenzel, Nelson Honey, 8@Night plus many more. Pricing starts from $40. new from zealand, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl, Botany South. Ph 09 215 1862. www.newfromzealand.com open Mon-fri 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm

clicKEty clicK! coME in anD SEE our aMazing art! Mention this advert and we’ll give you 15% discount off custom framing and selected artwork. Bring in your memories today and we’ll make them works of art or choose a special piece in store. Our expert and dedicated staff are eagerly waiting to assist you. Merry Christmas from Phil, Robyne, Chequers and Toffee. howick frames and gallery, cnr wellington and Elliot Sts, howick. Ph 09 534 1307. www.framesandgallery.co.nz

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Change the look and colour of your glasses with these great click-on/click-off frames exclusive to Howick village Optometrists. From $480 you get one frame plus the choice of one added ‘click-on’ frame. Extra ‘click-ons’ can be purchased at $85 each or $150 for two! Whether you want a new image or a change of look for that special occasion or even to match an outfit, these removable frames are just the ticket. See them in store – only at: howick village optometrist, 94 Picton St, howick. Ph 09 534 8716. www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Fairy tale world going to auction When HELEN PERRY heard that a local, well-known fancy dress business was about to close after nearly two decades, she popped along to talk with owner Gloria McNeil about the reality of saying good-bye to a world of make believe and the beautiful costumes that have taken many a party-goer’s fancy.

Dressing up has always been child’s play but when the grown-ups turn into party animals it can mean there are wolves in sheep’s clothing, bunny girls, bumbling bears or perhaps a frogman or two! And over the past 18 years Gloria McNeil, owner of Dress Up Costume Hire and Accessories in Pakuranga, has seen it all – Draculas, zombies, Day of the Dead brides, Abba impersonators, Beatles look-alikes, French maids, Antoinettes, Alices in Wonderland, Mad Hatters, Men in Black, and much more including all sorts of fantasy figures which have emerged from the imagination of movie makers and cartoonists. Now, it’s all coming to an end. After Gloria’s business partner Marion

Wood retired two years ago due to ill health, Gloria carried on. However, with questions about her own health, she says it’s time to call it a day. But what a task ahead! The Ben Lomond Crescent warehouse, which is home to Dress Up, is packed with hundreds of fascinating costumes, many painstakingly made by Marion. There are also vintage garments gleaned from the annual vintage fair while others have been picked up from theatre companies short on storage – the very first costumes came from the Harlequin Theatre where both Marion and Gloria had been volunteers in the wardrobe department. “Closing down will be a mammoth

20 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

task and I will be so sad to see some of these beautifully-made costumes go,” Gloria says. “I have wonderful memories of outfitting themed weddings, P parties – S and F too – Rock ‘n’ Roll nights, 60s, 70s and 80s celebrations, themed corporate functions and so many other fanciful events. “We did one wedding where the men in the bridal party went as the Three Musketeers and for another, a ‘horror’ wedding, the bride wore black and the guests went as ghouls and ghosts. There have been many medieval weddings too.” With Santa costumes, elves and fairies in demand leading up to Christmas, Gloria plans to trade as

usual until the end of December. “The lease expires in March so for the first three months of next year I will be in sale mode then everything is going to auction. “Of course, I have a few regulars with a penchant for particular costumes and anyone who wishes to purchase something special can just come and chat with me. “I’m known as the fairy godmother to many folk, so hopefully I can play the role a few times yet!” And when it’s all over Gloria says she’s taking more time for her craftwork. “I’m into recycling and re-using www.eastlife.co.nz

Gloria McNeil – saying goodbye to a magical lifestyle.

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Photos Wayne Martin

“We did one wedding where the men in the bridal party went as the Three Musketeers and for another, a ‘horror’ wedding, the bride wore black and the guests went as ghouls and ghosts. There have been many medieval weddings too.”

products,” she says indicating an array of necklaces created from silk neck ties and packs of colourcoordinated infant bibs backed with shower curtaining discarded when a nearby manufacturer closed down. “I like creating quirky items and, perhaps, when I’ve had time to draw breath I’ll pop up at some of the local markets, but for now it’s all about sending off Dress Up in style. “I need to ensure my costumes and thousands of accessories – wigs, hats, fake nails, fishnet stockings, boas, masks and so much more, find homes where they’ll be loved.” www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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Botany Town Centre, 501 Ti Rakau Drive, East Tamaki Phone 09 273 8887, Open 7 Days 8am-10pm 22 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 SC3567

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Father Walter McDonald Local resident and history buff CHRISTINE MILES gives the low down on the history behind some of our thoroughfares and well known places.

Religious experiences are usually the domain of the church, but at the bottom of Stockade Hill, where Mellons Bay Road and Ridge Road merge with Picton Street, there is modest street that has godly connections. Walter McDonald Street is a culde-sac, crowded, these days with vehicles, their owners visiting health specialists of one sort or another. Ironically, at the entrance to the street is an undertakers – a dead end, health specialists and undertakers all on one short street has to be one of Howick’s unique quirks. Add to this oddity, Walter McDonald Street is named for a worthy fellow, Revered Walter MacDonald – one could say a good man to have around in light of the locality’s business! Reverend Walter arrived in New Zealand in 1855 as a deacon but became private secretary to Bishop Pompallier in Northland for nearly 15 years. He was later transferred to Auckland where, due to his efforts as an administrator, St Patrick’s Cathedral was enlarged, and the spire built.

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Walter McDonald Street is a cul-de-sac, crowded, these days with vehicles, their owners visiting health specialists of one sort or another. Ironically, at the entrance to the street is an undertakers – a dead end, health specialists and undertakers all on one short street has to be one of Howick’s unique quirks.

In 1882, one Bishop Luck was assigned to the Auckland area. It has been speculated that the English bishop had a problem with the Irish McDonald, resulting in the good father’s removal from St Patrick’s

Cathedral to the parishes of Panmure and, yes, Howick. Other accounts, probably more accurate given their source and McDonald’s life to that point, suggest that, as the Pope had made Father Walter a Monsignor, it was not suitable to his dignity to hold an administrative position at St Pat’s. Whatever the reason, the people of Auckland town protested vehemently, with a contingent of men visiting the Bishop in an attempt to change his mind, followed by (for the first time in history) a contingent of women. Neither party was successful. However, Father Walter’s life was a

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full and varied one – he was popular at the races, dashing on to the track on his old horse if a rider fell, anxious that comfort be provided regardless of belief. He inspected schools, befriended the children (reputedly with an neverending, pocketful of lollies), and attended a convicted murderer in the days before the poor unfortunate was hanged. Life was certainly not about ritual services on Sunday. Father Walter died in 1899 but his story lives on. In Ellerslie, a school was built in his memory. And, in Howick, we have Walter McDonald Street. Sources: paperspast.natlib.govt.nz; teara.govt.nz

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sanctuary beckons One minute kiddies are clamouring for the holidays; next minute, they’re bored! As the weeks wear on, creating fun distractions will test even the most imaginative carers. So, why not take advantage of summer to explore the harbour and gulf with Fullers? Sister company, 360 Discovery operates regular journeys to Tiritiri Matangi, wildlife sanctuary for endangered birds and reptiles and home to some 300,000 native plants. Just a 75-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland (via Gulf Harbour), this amazing reserve has seen many visitors entranced by the lush native bush and the serenade of gentle bird song. Meaning “tossed by the wind”, Tiritiri Matangi is an Open Scientific Reserve managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) in partnership with the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Inc. It’s ‘open sanctuary’ status allows 150 ferry visitors daily from Wednesday to Sunday onto the island. There, they can swim or picnic at Hobbs Bay, see one of New Zealand’s oldest pohutukawa trees, (about 800-1000 years old) and take in the Tiritiri lighthouse built in 1864. There is a gift shop which sells cold drinks and chocolate with free tea and coffee provided. But visitors should take a water bottle and a packed lunch.

While there it is possible to join the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi on a guided walk which includes the best spots to see exquisite bird life. The 90-minute walk finishes at the Tiritiri Visitor Centre where there are displays plus the gift shop. All profits from the shop go to the island’s conservation and education programmes. Working in conjunction with the Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, 360 Discovery can facilitate participation in the island’s range of activities. Guided walks are: Adults, $10; children $2.50 and walks should be booked in advance at the 360 Discovery ticket office, phone 09 307 8005, or on line. Wear good walking shoes and take sun block, a hat, swim wear and a light jacket if rain looks likely. For a rare experience, it’s also possible to stay overnight with the chance to observe New Zealand’s nocturnal wildlife emerging as the sun goes down and wake up to Tiri’s world famous dawn chorus. The little penguin, and the little spotted kiwi, are just some of the wildlife visitors might see. To book overnight accommodation visit www.doc.govt.nz/ tiritiribunkhouse or call DOC (Department of Conservation), phone 09 425 7812. To book ferry transport to the island call 360 Discovery, 09 307 8005.

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Never a dull Despite regularly hopping across to Sydney for many years HELEN PERRY says there are always new places to discover in this everchanging city, bounded by one of the world’s most beautiful harbours.

New city reserve bangs! Environmentalists, walkers, gardeners and anyone who enjoys the outdoors must surely appreciate inner Sydney’s fabulous new Barangaroo Reserve bounded by the sea. Named after Aboriginal woman, Barangaroo, partner of Bennelong (his name was given to the point where the Sydney Opera House is situated), this six-hectare foreshore park overlooks the inner harbour. Travelling by water taxi from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour, we passed close to the reserve and were impressed by its terraced gardens, magnificent slabs of sandstone and the shoreline walkway, all easily seen from the water. Apparently, Bennelong and Barangaroo were of the Cammeraygal people, who made first contact with the British colonists when they arrived in the Land Down Under in 1788.

time to explore this new treasure, landscaped with thousands of plants, it is on my ‘to do’ list for next time.

Buttons, Buttons, Buttons We did an awful lot of walking on this Sydney visit and, naturally, visited The Rocks including the Nurses Walk, created in 1979 in honour of the nurses who worked in the precinct’s hospitals between 1788 and 1816. The nurses were actually selected convicts who weren’t paid for their work but were supported at the public’s expense. Today, the Nurses Walk wends its way through a network of cobbled lanes and it was there that I discovered Buttons, Buttons, Buttons. Tell me to button up if I rave on about this fascinating shop with virtually wall to wall, ceiling to ceiling buttons.

Barangaroo is said to have been a skilled fisherwoman and regularly paddled the waters around the site of the new park, officially opened just a few weeks ago.

Offering vintage and modern buttons, it attracts sewers, crafts people and interested visitors from all over, the array of buttons covering a myriad of colours, shapes and sizes. There are children’s buttons, floral buttons, special interest buttons and buttons that are truly works of art.

It includes the Wulugul Walk and is, I’m told, a sculpted, hollow hill with a multi-cultural space inside, called The Cutway. While we ran out of

And don’t just think of six or seven down the front of a cardigan or coat. The tinker, tailor, soldier, sailor days of buttons are no longer in the count

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24 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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‘ moment in Sydney but in the countenance! Feature buttons, many in groupings, create visual art on cushions, bags and clothing – I loved the rabbit holding a bunch of button balloons. Appropriately, (it being October 31) there were Halloween buttons too – a card of orange pumpkins, black cats, witches hats and others cost $19. I am not really a sewer or a knitter but I fell in love with these buttons and felt I could definitely find a use for them even as a gift to friends who sew or are artistically gifted. So, if wandering The Rocks, be sure to step out along the Nurses Walk

where Buttons, Buttons, Buttons is one of several captivating shops.

The Alpaca Barn Adjacent to the button wonderland, The Alpaca Barn was another intriguing shop ‘pac-ed’ with wares made from Alpaca wool. I was so very tempted by a feather-light wrap but having already spent a bomb, I decided to leave purchasing until my next trip, closer to winter. Beautiful scarves, wraps, jackets, sweaters, socks, and other clothing items aside, the throws and colourful wall hangings caught my eye – the latter so different and extremely eyecatching. For those who appreciate

the softness and warmth of alpaca wool then I recommend checking out this is lovely store but don’t expect bargain bin deals. Prices reflect the exquisite quality of the goods.

Opal card Travellers who haven’t visited central Sydney for some time will surely appreciate the Opal Card which makes getting around the city super easy. This excellent transport card covers buses, trains, and ferries including the train fare to and from the airport. There is no actual cost for the card which has a shelf life of eight years but the initial purchase is $40 (all

The newly opened Barangaroo Reserve is a far-seeing move by the City of Sydney Council showing a commitment to maintaining green spaces and leisure opportunities in the heart of vibrant, cosmopolitan city.

yours for travel purposes). Easy to use, commuters just tap the card on a special disc when entering and leaving any form of transport but don’t forget to tap both ways otherwise you’ll be charged twice the next time around. When card funds are depleted, just top up with whatever sum you choose. I also noticed that when using the Opal Card, fares were cheaper than when buying them individually without a card. I used the Opal card constantly on this trip not just in the central city but on a couple of train journeys out to the suburbs for shopping. Great stuff, wish we had the same here.

Waiheke Express Pine Harbour to Waiheke Island Relax in the heart of the Hauraki Gulf Just a short ferry trip from Pine Harbour is Waiheke - Island of Wine. Enjoy the beautiful scenery whilst indulging in award-winning wines!

Sailing Schedule DEPARTING

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Savour Sydney! No matter how often HELEN PERRY visits Sydney – and it’s usually about twice a year – exploring new restaurants and revisiting old favourites never fails to delight. Last month four heart of Sydney venues dished up the goodies.

360 Bar and Dining, Sydney Tower Our second night in Sydney and the plan was to meet up with four girlfriends for a night at 360 Bar and Dining, the exceptionally swish, revolving restaurant high in the Sydney Tower. While there is another tower restaurant, buffet-style, 360 is the tower’s premier restaurant and it certainly lived up to its reputation for modern Australian cuisine, and even more, for outstanding service which never faltered in its attentiveness and courtesy. We started with drinks in the stylish bar from where we enjoyed uninterrupted views of the city. And, right from the first, we were treated like celebrities (as was everyone). Ushered to our table 30 minutes later we took time to continue savouring the bird’s eye views of the city and beyond. Still daylight, we had fun picking out landmarks and places we had visited. As the evening wore on and night fell, the city was a glow with lights and the outlook extremely beautiful from all directions. With its high culinary standards – we enjoyed the two-course option of $65 per person – and a sound wine list covering a wide price range, this restaurant impressed me no end, partly because I didn’t really go there with high expectations. As it turned out, we all loved the contemporary flair displayed in the decor, food and polished service. Frankly, I came away thinking Orbit Restaurant at Auckland’s SkyTower, has a lot of catching up to do.

Opera Bar, beneath the Sydney Opera House Not just one of my favourite spots but extremely popular across the board. Outdoor, sun-drenched seating under umbrellas was virtually all taken when we arrived around 2pmish. www.eastlife.co.nz

However, with temperatures at 28 degrees celsius we were glad to sit in the air conditioned inner bar from where we could still glimpse the water. Sharing a plate of calamari nicely seasoned with salt and rosemary, accompanied by a romesco sauce plus a bowl of perfect polenta chips and, of course a glass and more of a tantalising, dry riesling, we could have lingered there till dinner time. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this relaxed yet sophisticated bar, just below the Sydney Opera House, is a winner. Again, the menu was diverse, prices well within our budget (only 360 Bar and Dining stretched our pockets) and although we indulged only in bar snacks, they were among our favourite bites while away. With so many great dining/wining venues, across many culinary styles, the hardest part about eating out in Sydney is choosing. It is a dilemma, indeed, but here’s hoping these bitesized evaluations will help EastLifers, head Sydney-side.

Lowenbrau Keller, Argyle Street, The Rocks German-style hospitality did us proud on this trip coming up trumps when, on the last day of October (also Halloween night), we headed for a very old favourite, Lowenbrau Keller at The Rocks. With its true beer hall seating (long

tables, bench seats), cave-like interior, informal outdoor tables (awnings with clear dropside curtains for inclement weather) and, on this occasion, a traditional Oompah band to wrap up Oktoberfest, we loved the buzzy environment. We also enjoyed the stream of Halloween characters that passed by throughout the evening. In fact, wherever we went that day we met dramatic-looking Halloween groups having fun. Even bar and store employees were dressed to kill! As for our meal at Lowenbrau – it nearly killed me ....with kindness. Super big, tasty, and very, very filling, it had me beat. A yum schnitzel – what else does one have at a German restaurant? – plus sauerkraut and creamy, whipped mash, it may have seemed simple enough on the menu but it was a mammoth effort to get anywhere near the last mouthful. No dessert for us! Averagely priced, with lots of imported German beers on offer, this was a dining environment with a big heart. Staff wore traditional folk style dress and service was excellent despite every table being full. It was a real pleasure to return here after an absence of several years.

Bavarian Bier Cafe, Manly Wharf No dirndl or lederhosen here but I’m convinced at the end of a jolly night of socialising it would be all too easy

to raise your glass just one more time and say, Prost! Located right on the wharf, overlooking the water at Manly Cove, the Bavarian Bier Cafe is one of several in a chain. This one, just a short ferry trip from Sydney central, (gorgeous on a fair-weather day) offers a relaxed ambience where patrons are encouraged to sit back and down a lager (or preferred drink), especially appreciated when the weather is as warm as it was when we wandered that way. Hot and sunny, we had done some walking in the city and were ready to quench our thirst and enjoy a bite of lunch. But with a night on the town planned, we decided to share a platter, the Bavarian Delikatessen Charcuterie ($20). This consisted of potted chicken liver pate, baked ham, Black Forest smoked pork, spiced cured salami, Lyonnaise sausage, and schmalz (a rendered goose or chicken fat used as a spread). We also ordered garlic sour dough bread ($8.50) plus a glass of wine each. With open sided decks that extend right indoors this light and airy venue appealed enormously. Although sharing a platter, we didn’t expect it to be big as it was and couldn’t quite manage it all. Generous and tasty, it did the trick for lunch and we did so enjoy the friendly service, the lovely outlook and the overall Bavarian beer hall charm. Very cool.

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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Summer reading – gift ideas ‘ When it comes to selecting the perfect pressies, books are tops in many people’s, well, books! So, if you’re making a list, no need to check it twice, just take a leaf out of our book and consider the following releases.

Midnight Sun (Blood on Snow 2)

In a town so far north that the sun never sets, Jon is running for his life. In the hotly awaited sequel to Blood on Snow, former Norwegian premier footballer, turned author, Jo Nesbo, continues the compelling story of a man desperate to escape his past. Will a notorious crime lord, known as the fisherman, land his catch? Or can Jon find sanctuary underneath the midnight sun? • Jo Nesbo: Midnight Sun | RRP $35 | Harvill Secker/Penguin Random House

The Gentlemen’s Club Billed as gritty and honest, Jen Shieff’s debut novel suggests psychological thrills at every turn. Following the fortunes of a hairdresser by day, madam by night, a Hungarian immigrant, a sixteenyear-old girl seeking an abortion,

and a promiscuous, opportunistic chaperone to three young orphans, The Gentlemen’s Club is expected to be the first in a crime fiction series set in Auckland between 1957 and 2017. • Jen Shieff: The Gentlemen’s Club | RRP $30 | Mary Egan Publishing

Precious Gifts Steel yourself for another ripping read! When Veronique Parker’s former husband dies suddenly, he leaves her and their three daughters a stunning inheritance including: a painting of mysterious origin, a French château, the freedom to pursue their dreams, and a shocking revelation from the past. In a stirring story of love and loss, veteran author, Danielle Steel, reveals that some gifts are best never received! • Danielle Steel: Precious Gifts | RRP $37 | Bantam Press/Penguin Random House

Depraved Heart

While working on a suspicious death, medical examiner Dr Kay Scarpetta discovers surveillance film revealing frightening secrets about her niece which will raise dangerous legal implications. In the latest of a series of bestselling thrillers, this story is packed with shocking twists. Will haunting videos from the past destroy Scarpetta’s entire world and everyone she loves? All becomes clear in Patricia Cornwell’s latest book. • Patricia Cornwell: Depraved Heart | RRP $36.99 or $44.99 (hardback) | HarperCollins

Tom Clancy’s Commander-in-Chief Jack Ryan, Jr. is up against it again in this geopolitical thriller by Mark Greaney. Russian president, Valeri Volodin, is again threatening world peace, moving chess pieces around

Win! Because it’s good to receive as well as give, EastLife has copies of all of the above to give away. So, if patience is your virtue, enter to win at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close January 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

the board while isolating Ryan from the rest of the international community. In another page-turner, Mark tells a tale of intrigue set across Central Asia, Europe and Washington, D.C. But if you think his hero will let the baddies (particularly a guy named Valeri) beat him, you don’t know Jack! • Mark Greaney: Tom Clancy’s Commander-in-Chief | RRP $38 | Michael Joseph/Penguin Random House

New Service ferry good Weekend passage from Pine Harbour to Waiheke – or the other way around – has just become easier with Sealink’s new express passenger ferry service between Pine Harbour and Matiatia. Launched at the end of October, the new service will operate on demand throughout summer offering a ‘hassle free’, low cost harbour crossing of just under 30 minutes. What’s more FREE parking is available at Pine Harbour Marina. Whether departing from Pine www.eastlife.co.nz

Harbour for Waiheke to experience beautiful scenery, great food and award-winning wines, or departing Waiheke for Pine Harbour in anticipation of a taste of France on the Pohutukawa Coast at the weekly Fresh Market, the convenience and comfort provided by this service has been welcomed. At $28 return for adults and $20 return for children, this is the weekend day trip people have been looking for AND it will operate on public holidays too! Call 0800 732 546 to book now.

Sailing Schedule – Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: • Departing Matiatia, Waiheke at 9.30am, 10.30am, 4pm and 5pm • Departing Pine Harbour at 9am, 10am, 3.30pm and 4.30pm eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

clevedon A&P a great day The sun shone, the music played, out came the baking and preserves, farm animals and pets too. Yes, the annual Clevedon A&P Show was a huge hit – young and old, exhibitors and visitors, performers and organisers all had a ball. Photographer JANET KEELING was there.

n Photography by Janet Keeling | For orders email jk.photography@xtra.co.nz | www.facebook.com/jkphotographynz

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30 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Tis the season Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner CARYN MAWKES has some helpful tips to make the festive season a homemade affair. Keven Mealamu and Josephine Sim

Christmas is undoubtedly one of the most exciting times of the year especially for children. It’s a time for sharing, giving, gathering with family and friends so why not make it a handmade affair? Here are some suggestions to get started.

HEARTY TALES WARM THE HEART

chriStMaS craftS – Make decorating the Christmas tree a family affair by encouraging children to create their own decorations. Here are some child-friendly and practical decorating ideas. • Handmade Christmas wrapping paper using your child’s art work • Use cut out shapes of your hands to form a shape of a wreath or Christmas tree • Create your own snow globe using an old jar and a special family photo

BaKing – Everybody enjoys receiving yummy Christmas treats. Here are some fail-proof and easy recipe ideas. • Make salt dough decorations for the Christmas tree • Christmas shortbread • Bliss balls • Strawberry santas

giving – This time of year is perfect for teaching children about the spirit of giving. Whether it’s thanking the postman, baking for a neighbour or generally giving in some way, it is the little warm fuzzies that mean a lot. • Cookie mixture in a jar (this is all the ingredients and a recipe in one) • Homemade Christmas decorations • Create your own calendar with personalised photos

chriStMaS in thE arEa – There are always plenty of exciting Christmas events happening. Here are a few in our local area. • Howick Santa’s Snow Cave – open most evenings (weather permitting) • Drive down to Little Bucks (Bucklands Beach) to see one of the houses all lit up and decorated • Christmas light show – Eastgate Christian Centre – Ben Lomond Crescent

chilDrEn’S chriStMaS StoriES – We all know how much children love listening to stories and what better time to treat your child to a new Christmas story. After collecting a new book each year, it won’t be long before you have your own library of Christmas books. • Slinky Malinki – Christmas Cracker • A Pukeko In A Ponga Tree • A Kiwi Jingle Bells • All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth We hope your holiday season is fun and festive and your house will now be filled with many exciting new home made Christmas treasures.

Christmas is all the merrier when children are at the heart of family gatherings and for youngsters those colourful parcels under the tree are an especially happy part of the festivities. This year parents or grandparents could make a child’s day extra special by gifting a copy of newly published, Home Sweet Home and Seven Hearty Tales, the latest book from the Barfoot & Thompson Young Authors Challenge. The book features stories from three local students, Josephine Sim from Cockle Bay School whose story Home Sweet Home was the supreme winner and was part of the title; Jenna Hainsworth, Beachlands Primary School and Caleb Palmer, Elim Christian School.

Josephine’s story was illustrated by All Black great Keven Mealamu, Jenna’s (My Family, My Home), by graphic artist Erika Pearce and Caleb’s (Spotty’s New Home), by a seven-year-old Starship patient Kake Diprose who suffers from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. All proceed from the book go the Starship Foundation. It can be purchased at www.barfoot.co.nz/ storybook for just $20.

CHRISTMAS WISHES FULFILLED while some sorts might still wish for Santa baby to slip a sable under the tree, the christmas wishes of 68,000 Kiwi kids are much less extravagant. So, to ensure these children – who would otherwise be left un-wrapped with christmas – have a little something to brighten their day, Kmart with the help of the Salvation army is marshalling its best efforts with the Kmart wishing tree appeal. the appeal, which is new zealand’s largest and longest running christmas gift appeal, has raised more than 420,000 gifts for those in need, including 41,000 in 2014.

Early Learning Centre • Hours 7.30am-5.30pm, full & part time • Positions for children aged 0-5 years • Our family relationships are important to us.

Rockabye wishes you all warmth and good cheer, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year ENROL NOW FOR 2016 Rockabye Early Learning Centre, 122 Aviemore Dr, Highland Park • Email caryn@rockabye.school.nz Ph 533 0218 • www.rockabye.school.nz

to participate simply visit any Kmart store with your wrapped gift in tow (used or second hand goods not accepted) before December 24. visit kmart.co.nz/wishingtree for more details. well done to Kmart and the Sallies on this excellent effort in extending goodwill this festive season.

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Puzzle Cryptic Puzzle

time 1

NO. 10018

DOWN

7. Like the circular the postman put in without knocking? (3,5,1,3). 8. Having been, at heart, vanquished (6). 9. The bird-lime I’m dropping in the little shell (6). 10. A chorus of “Don’t!” (7). 12. Shut, it’s stuffy (5). 15. Pierce with a piece of wood (5). 16. A real card and that’s a warning (7). 18. He knows his stuff (6). 20. For sun, wants leisure wear (6). 22. How the jumper goes on is hard to understand (4,4,4).

1. Sticking together, which is comprehensible (8). 2. Tease the fool (4). 3. Between times the rain’s trickling into the passage (7). 4. Mop in a jar (5). 5. Does it provide a little support for the arm? (8). 6. The stone work is by a learner (4). 11. Didn’t forget having been removed from office (8). 13. One with a souped-up engine? (5-3). 14. Criticises you in German for going in to get flowers (7). 17. Worry about the family (5). 19. Nothing bitter, perhaps, about it? Oh, yes there is! (4). 21. Pale after a throw (4).

14 15

16 17

18 19

Quick Puzzle ACROSS

Puzzle answers on page 81

Sudoku

puzzle no. 18

ACROSS

7. 8. 9. 10. 12. 15. 16. 18. 20. 22.

Fabric (5-2-5) Haphazard (6) Currency (6) Raisin (7) Spiteful (5) Singer (5) Shooting-stars (7) Selected (6) Noted (6) Mean (12)

No. 10018

DOWN 1. Riches (8) 2. Copied (4) 3. Unyielding (7) 4. Nut (5) 5. Feign (8) 6. Skin (4) 11. Garment (8) 13. Winding (8) 14. Slavery (7) 17. Caper (5) 19. Expect (4) shops, have fun 21. Predominant (4)

Volunteer in our charity whilst supporting the work of Hospice.

Join a friendly team at the heart of your local community in one of our Totara Hospice shops. Our dedicated and caring volunteers need more help! Turn kindly donated goods into much needed support for our patients and their families. Full training is provided, a great chance to meet new friends - and there are many ways you can help.

Volunteer in our charity shops, have fun whilst supporting the work of Hospice.

32 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 Join a friendly team at the heart of your local community in one of our Totara Hospice shops. Our dedicated and caring volunteers need more help!

Please contact Wendy Stanmore now if you can help on: (09) 2983108 or wendy.stanmore@hospice.co.nz Totara Hospice, 140 Charles Prevost Drive, Manurewa www.eastlife.co.nz

Summer at the races ‘ The race is on! Or rather the races are on – all summer! And while punters at Ellerslie Racecourse will be backing their horses to pass the winning post first, many a racegoer will be betting on a winner in the fashion stakes. While racing events at Ellerslie are rampant throughout December and January, the big Christmas Carnival covering the days of December 26 & 28 and January 1 are among the most popular and are sure to attract huge crowds.

Katie McGillivray, (right) of Beachlands, and her cousin Samantha McGillivray, make a day at Ellerslie Racecourse a glam affair.

In particular, Ellerslie’s Boxing Day Races are an institution on Auckland’s social calendar and provide a magnificent day of high fashion, entertainment, socialising and premier thoroughbred racing. In addition to track excitement, there’s plenty more action as men and women dress in their racewear finest, many vying to take out the Fashions in the Field competition offering fabulous prizes. Of course, there’s numerous ways to soak up on-course action with plenty of thrills for children too.

But it doesn’t stop at Boxing Day, race fever continues on Monday December 28 and then again at the

New Year’s Day races where, yet again, the fashionistas will be out in force. To make the most of these

Champagne events ensure your wardrobe – and your purse – are ready for the excitement.

Race on for one million dollar purse! The glitterati of the racing world – and the social set – are set to turn out in January for international showstopper, the New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million at Ellerslie Racecourse. Featuring New Zealand’s richest race with a purse of $1,000,000, this is an evening of fast-paced,

high-stakes racing with the top 14 qualified youngsters from the 2015 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales racing head-tohead. Throughout the evening horses entered in the 2016 Karaka Million – January 24, 2016 – will be competing for: • $1 million Karaka Million 2YO

(Res.L) 1200m – Open to Karaka Million nominated horses sold at New Zealand Bloodstock’s 2015 National Yearling Sales Series. • $250,000 Karaka 3YO Mile (Res.L) 1600m Open to Karaka Million nominated horses sold at New Zealand Bloodstock’s 2014 National Yearling Sales Series.

• $100,000 Karaka Stayers Cup 2200m Open to all Karaka Yearling Sale graduates. The three remaining undercard races at the Karaka Million Twilight Meeting will each have the prizemoney increased to $50,000, from $40,000, in 2016.

Check out our website www.terraceshair.co.nz

Christmas time, mistletoe and wine..

Mon 21 Dec Tues 22 Dec Wed 23 Dec Thur 24 Dec

9am to 8pm 9am to 8pm 9am to 8pm 8:30am to 2pm

We’re taking a break until... Tues 5 Jan Open at 9am E510481-v7

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

HOLIDAY HOURS

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Take a punt on race wear fashions Summer race-goers are expected to sport some show-stopping outfits during the upcoming Auckland Summer Racing Carnival – dressing to the nines means there will be as many winners in the stands and marquees as there are on the track. In particular big, bold, beautiful florals are back in vogue – packed on to fab frocks, they’re sure be a blooming success for those who want to blossom but keep accessories simple. Dressing up is also about dressing to suit so consider your own particular style. Block colours, for example, are a loud and proud tradition, which make for a confident look. On the other hand, it’s hard to surpass the classic flair of monochrome combinations – black and white could well be the staple of this season’s race days.

Keep bags small – just big enough for those few, all-important cosmetics – no totes or super size carry-alls here! And, remember, the races aren’t an after-five affair (well, they might be on some occasions!) so keep the glitter low key. Fashionable males will be well suited for the occasion – dare to be dapper in a coloured, soft jacket teamed with tailored cotton trou or alternatively a beige washed-cotton jacket atop tan or navy tailored trousers sporting a modicum of stretch. Race days are a chance for males to be a little more exuberant and to show their peacock colours but for some the classic, well-cut, twopiece suit does the job. However, add individual style – shine in the shade – with a coloured shirt, pocket handkerchief or a tie that stands out in the crowd. Menswear: Strangely Normal. Model: Jono

Importantly, go racing – the fun and games are set to begin.

Menswear: Strangely Normal. Model: Michael

On the catwalk in vogue menswear for race days.

Photos James Saunders

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And don’t forget the all-important accessories – hats, fascinators, hatinators – are a must. Take care, too, that you are ‘well-heeled’ – shoes

should be the perfect fit in every way.

34 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Keeping pace with the race! The summer racing season is upon us and what better way to step out in style than wearing a fabulous outfit from Kevin Moore in Howick. Renowned for his stunning special occasion wear – race days, mother of the bride or groom, after five and the kind of individual panache that will take you to the captain’s table when cruising or the corporate tent at the polo – Kevin knows how to dress women well. Whether sipping champagne in a sponsor’s tent or entering Fashions in the Field during this year’s Boxing Day and New Year’s Day races at Ellerslie, you can feel superbly confident in a Kevin Moore design. For trend-setting, designer elegance be dressed by the best!

Open: Mon to Sat, 10–4pm Phone: 09 534 8614 • Mobile: 021 178 1543 Web: kevinmooredesign.co.nz • 1 Seymour Rd, Mellons Bay

BE0217

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

It’s all in the detail... Racing and fashion are synonymous with style and glamour and there is no better time to dress up than the Auckland Racing Carnival as founder and managing director of Auckland Fashion Week, Denyse Saunders explains.

• Svelte-fitting under garments are vital too. • Book a date with your hairdresser ensuring she/he creates a style that will suit your hat. • Jewellery is important from your earnings to bracelets and rings.

It is important to be totally co-ordinated from top-to-toe when dressing for the races.

• Designer sunglasses will complete the overall look. • Your makeup and finger and toe nails should also be perfectly groomed and the colours coordinated to your overall outfit!

For the ladies, a hat that matches your dress or outfit is de riguer. Colour co-ordination with shoes and hand bag plus perfectly groomed hair, makeup and nails, complete the picture.

• Before you leave the house spray yourself with your most expensive fragrance and go out and enjoy!

For the men, a suit and tie is essential. Be appropriately dressed in new season colours co-ordinated with stylish shoes, belt and cufflinks. Pay attention to well-groomed hair and facial hair and don’t forget to wear a gorgeous designer fragrance.

For men: • Book, now, with your hairdresser and skin therapist for a cut, shave and wax. • Start with one of the new season suits and do be guided by the menswear store experts.

Preparing for the raceS For women:

• Your tie is key to a stylish look, as is the correct shirt.

• Book a facial for the day before so your skin looks youthful and dewy and book in for a spray tan at least one day beforehand. • Book NOW for a champagne breakfast with friends at one of Auckland’s top cafes; splash out and start the day in style but not so much that you are inebriated before you even arrive at the races! • Book a taxi or limousine before they too are booked up and you are left

Designer: Red Button Design. Model: Sinead

hobbling home in sore feet at the end of the day! •P lan your outfit from top-to-toe. It is in the detail that really matters! For ladies the dress is the first piece to look for; Buy it, or if you want something unique, go to an haute couture designer for that one only outfit that no one else will have!

• Wear dark coloured socks and shiny smart shoes.

• Then it is off to the milliner to have a hat designed and made to match your gorgeous outfit.

• Cufflinks complete this stylish look as do designer sunglasses and perhaps a fabulous hat!

• Next look for high shoes and a handbag/clutch that should coordinate with your dress and hat. In fact, you may need to have them dyed to attain the perfect match.

• And, there is nothing sexier than a great smelling man – choose a designer fragrance with care; wear it with style! www.denysesaunders.com

Celebrating 20 years in Pakuranga Diamond Jewellery

Handmade Jewellery

Brownsons Jewellers

BAROMETER

ALTIMETER

C O M PAS S

S173 Pakuranga Plaza, Auckland Ph 09 576 3818 • brownsonsjewellers@gmail.com E510467-v3

36 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Beach pleasers! Chasing waves this summer? Make a splash with Boohoo’s all-encompassing holiday collection. With a paradise of options on offer, you’ll be proud to be seen on the beach this season. Mix it up with Boohoo’s beachy bikini separates including twisted bandeaus and classic triangles. Get in the swim of things and wear matchy-matchy from head to toe in one of boohoo’s bikini sets, which are bursting with colour and pattern this season.

Feel confidently cool with figure-flattering one pieces designed to suit every shape. Get in the swim of things this summer with every girl’s go to www.boohoo.com – this summer’s going to be a scorcher!

1. Nepal Bandeau and High Waist Brief Bikini $24. 2. Catania Tie Front Ruffle Hem Bikini $25. 3. Morocco Jungle Deep Plunge Cut Swimsuit $25. 4. Tonga Tie Front Strap Bikini $25. 5. Boracay Triangle Contrast Edge Bikini $25. 6. Bali Ethnic Print Gold Trim Triangle Bikini $30. 7. Santorini Twist Front Bikini $30.

5 www.eastlife.co.nz

7 eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Following beauty instincts – NEW STUDIO OPENS

However, despite her diverse skills, Nutthida Boonprasert, daughter of well know Cocoon Thai Spa owner, Gaye Fasher, has decided to focus on those areas in which she can give an instant result – hands and feet, nails, makeup, spray tanning, waxing, eye brow and lash tinting and eye lash extensions. Having followed in her mother’s footsteps from a young age, learning, absorbing and attending classes first in Thailand, Nutthida furthered her studies in New Zealand by completing a Diploma of Hospitality at Auckland University of Technology and a Bachelor of Business Marketing and Design. She then trained as a nail technician in New Zealand before attending the L’Oreal Academy in Thailand to train as a makeup artist. For the past year she has managed

Cocoon Thai Spa in Pakuranga while Gaye has overseen the spa in Chapel Road but when an opportunity arose to purchase a unit just a few strides from the Chapel Road spa, mother and daughter couldn’t resist.

With a huge selection of nail and nail enhancements to choose from, those who value beautiful hands or are tired of split, broken or chewed nails, can have hands and nails to be proud of.

The result? Beauty Instinct – Nutthida’s stunning Parisienne-style studio where she is eager to stamp her design flair on the market.

Nutthida is also a talented freestyle nail artist, loving to give nails that extra pizzazz. “I know people can buy decals but I like to do my own work which means clients can have something that is personalised or matched to an outfit. Furthermore, there’s virtually no limit to the designs one can have on just one or two nails or on every nail.”

“While I enjoyed the Pakuranga management experience where the tranquillity and calm of the spa was good for the soul, as a young person, used to being among people, I was keen to work in a more active environment.

With Beauty Instinct offering comprehensive nail, makeup, eyebrow and lash options plus waxing, spray tanning, standard manicures and pedicures for both women and men, and Cocoon Thai Spa just a few steps away, clients of both studios have countless beauty therapy opportunities at their fingertips.

“I’m also a person who loves to see instant results. Skin care is an on-going regime whereas a client coming to Beauty Instinct for makeup and nails leaves a short time later looking transformed. In fact, all our treatments are about seeing change more or less straight away.” And the wide range of treatments means clients can be prepared for virtually any situation from weddings and special occasions through to looking sleek and tanned for an overseas holiday.

nutthiDa BoonPraSErt

New Studio Now Open

120mins

Christmas Special

$159*

Cocoon Heavenly Body

• • • •

• 30 mins Body Scrub • 60 mins Aromatherapy Massage • 30 mins Facial *Valid until January 31, 2016

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 180 Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga. Ph: 577 2998. 2/166 Chapel Rd, Botany South. Ph: 274 9489. www.thaispa.co.nz

38 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

“This is the kind of work I revel in,” says Nutthida. “Seeing clients walk in needing a lift in one or more ways and then seeing them depart looking fabulous.”

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Nails • Nail Enhancements Eyelash Extensions Makeup • Waxing • Tinting St Tropez Spray Tan

148 Chapel Road, Botany South Phone 09 274 6850 Email info@beautyinstinct.co.nz www.beautyinstinct.co.nz

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For centuries women have explored the secrets of long-lasting beauty, discovering many ways to preserve and enhance their looks. Now, it seems one local has an instinct for the art of nurturing skin, hair, nails and those facial features that need special attention.

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Jewellery the perfect Christmas gift David Fels, owner of Showcase Jewellers, Howick, says jewellery is all about love – true love, friendship, families, even pieces you’ve fallen in love with. That’s why he and his team love hearing your stories and making your dreams come true.

Stripes are at home anywhere while soft paisley prints fondly reference times gone by but have been adapted to current silhouettes.

But the festive season is the perfect time to acknowledge the people close to us for the cherished position they hold in our lives. Whether they are family or friends, we often take them for granted, so, why not acknowledge their importance with an appropriate gift?

Whether it’s an inexpensive momento or a more exclusive diamond piece, jewellery is a clear expression of the special place the recipient holds in the other’s life. One of the things I love about the jewellery industry is that our clients are usually celebrating joyous, exciting events and they are giving us the opportunity to share in their happiness. Helping our clients choose a gift that reflects the occasion is an honour we don’t take lightly. Our store has a wide selection of merchandise, which includes colourful fashion jewellery, watches, and special items – rings, earrings,

Latest leisurewear from Ruby is a ‘shore’ thing when you planning lazy days by the sea. With plenty of 50s-inspired looks, modernised for the New Zealand beach lifestyle, these cool numbers are suited to all sorts of summer outings. Based on a coastal colour palette of blues, dramatically contrasted with classic black and white, there is a freshness and contemporary elegance to these styles which Ruby does so well.

Christmas is looming large on the calendar so it is the ideal opportunity to reflect on the many blessings we enjoy. Busy lives are often filled with stress and worry which takes our focus away from the reason of why we do what we do.

Jewellery is suitable for many different people and is traditionally popular for a variety of reasons, not least because it offers an emotional connection between the giver and receiver that few other items can express.

Ruby – fashion jewels

pendants and more – set with precious gems in gold and silver. We would love the opportunity to share our knowledge to help you find the perfect gift for the important people in your life.

As with all Ruby collections, garments are perfectly complemented by great accessories, chic sandals and cool eyewear – just the incentive needed to take Ruby (and friends) on Resort Seabright Crop Top, Bird Shirt a summer holiday. & Seabright Short

One jewellery range which is extremely popular at this time of year is “Coer de Lion”, exquisitely made in Germany with beautiful Swarovski crystals. This is an exciting and colourful range ideal for any occasion or to add the finishing touch to your Christmas Day outfit. And if by some chance the gift isn’t perfect we are happy to exchange it for something that is. I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and to say “thank you” for supporting our business throughout the year. It has been a lot of fun. We always enjoy catching up and look forward to seeing you shortly.

Resort Teardrop Halter Dress

Resort Sugar Ruffle Jacket & Bennett Playsuit

Your Diamond Specialist LOOBIE’S STORY • BAZAAR • SILLS DAVID POND • TOBY • PAULA RYAN • OBI DEANNA HOBBS • RANDOM • SILVER LINING NEW LONDON JEANS • CHALET • HOLIDAY Supporting NZ Designers

Seasons Celebration Style

PREZZIE IDEAS – Jewellery, Scarves, Bags In Store Now – Gift Vouchers Available

David Fels Showcase Jewellers 53 Picton St, Howick Ph: 09 537 2347 howick@showcasejeweller.com

114 Main Highway, Ellerslie SHOWCASE JEWELLERS

KW0406-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-4pm Ph 579 3535 • www.sashaboutique.co.nz RW1304-v3

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Dip into stream of wellness coping comes more naturally,” says Melanie.

As young people find their place in the world, sometimes they can fall into a dark hole. NATALIE BRITTAN shines light on a new service offering a helping hand.

Support Stream aims to equip its clients with these tools over the course of eight weeks. “We’re here to get results. We’re not going to drag sessions on forever. There’s a beginning and definite end and boxes need to be ticked in between.”

People in dark places often need a hand to hold on to, and Melanie Grey gladly offers that hand. The wellness coach is part of Support Stream, a new mobile mental health service that brings people like Melanie to the doorstep of teens and adults battling issues such as depression, anxiety and stress brought on by events such as exams, bereavement, separation, and unemployment. The Pakuranga mother of two teenagers will graduate with a master’s in counselling at the end of the year and has been working for over a year with mothers (of babies up to a year old) suffering from post natal depression. Support Stream was launched by community mental health organisation, Affinity Services after it spotted a gap in the market for affordable counselling at home. Armed with a diploma, a bachelor’s and a postgraduate diploma in areas such as health science, education and psychology, Melanie has studied extensively. Ironically, many of her clients are students who can’t cope with pressure from the education system. “They live and breathe in their bedrooms, they don’t get out of bed, they can’t attend university or school

As a mother of a 13-year-old and 15-year-old, Melanie is well-versed with the troubles that afflict youth. She says parents need to be able to heed warning signs.

Melanie Grey anymore because they’re quite unwell,” says the former Pakuranga College student.

“Something’s wrong when they’re no longer doing things that they used to enjoy. It can be not spending time with friends, even if that’s online.”

Through Support Stream, Melanie helps create a personalised wellness plan and strategies to help them return to where they want to be. She says finding out what they want and need is important. “It’s about walking alongside them while they put their own goals into place.”

The most rewarding part of Melanie’s job is seeing people recover and realise how far they’ve come.

And sometimes all they need is someone to be with them. For example, Melanie accompanies one of her students to university before the start of the semester so he can gradually remember what it’s like, and to ease him back into academia.

Her biggest hope is that more people will hear their story. “People who have recovered, moved back into employment or have children and are now living healthy lives need to share their stories so people can see that it’s okay and you will recover.

“We take it bit by bit, day by day,” she says. “We’ve written strategies for when he goes back to university again.” These plans help the client recognise any signs of distress and puts coping mechanisms in place. “When you get into a panic you don’t think so clearly. So when it’s practised [the strategy]

Local

experience and expertise you can

trust

Other clinic locations: Botany Junction, Glenfield, New Lynn, Papakura, St Heliers

40 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

But being holed up in a room is just normal teenage behaviour, she laughs. “Spending time in the room is normal and I wouldn’t worry about them sleeping a lot. I think they actually need to!”

“It can happen to anyone. There’s no face, no economic status, age, no race that defines mental health.” Support Stream is offered for clients 13 years old + and available MondaySunday 7am-8pm.

‘

If you or anyone you know is in danger of hurting themselves, please urgently contact the organisations below: • lifeline – 0800 543 354 • Depression helpline (8 am to 12 midnight) – 0800 111 757 • Suicide crisis helpline (aimed at those in distress, or those who are concerned about the wellbeing of someone else) – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) • youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline. co.nz

Our experienced East Auckland team of cardiologists are at Middlemore Hospital and provide a private cardiology service with the Auckland Heart Group at Ormiston Hospital offering a wide range of on-site cardiology services. Should you have any heart problems or concerns, ask your doctor for a referral to us. The Auckland Heart Group is an Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society and has Healthcare Partnerships with nib and Sovereign.

To find out more, talk to our team on 09 623 1020 or 09 623 4731 ahg@heartgroup.co.nz www.heartgroup.co.nz 125 Ormiston Rd, Botany Junction, Auckland RW1341

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Beauty COUNTER hanDy anD nouriShing One of the hand-iest items in a woman’s handbag is her hand cream and LaMav’s gorgeous rich, non-greasy Nourish Hand Crème is just the thing for all skin types. Whether you need a nightly boost or suffer from cracked skin, La Mav’s formula of hyaluronic acid, coenzyme Q10, vitamin E and shea butter gives hands the love and care they need. The combination of sweet almond, jojoba and macadamia oils provides long lasting moisture and promotes natural radiance, while aloe vera leaf juice restores hydration. La Mav Nourish Hand Crème (RRP $36.95) available at participating Health 2000 stores and selected retail outlets.

founDation for a flawlESS coMPlEXion! Oasis Beauty’s NZ-made BB cream is designed to provide a flawless complexion. Suitable for all skin types, cruelty-free BB Cream is designed as an all-in-one moisturiser, mineral foundation, concealer, anti-ageing/skin correcting treatment and sunscreen. It is available in three tones; Bardot – light, Monroe – light-medium and Hepburn – medium. Its light consistency works to smooth lacklustre complexions with full coverage without clogging pores. A blend of vitamins B5, C and E, pomegranate, red grape skin extract, hyaluronic acid, jojoba, rosehip, calendula and apricot kernal help correct skin imperfections over time while also helping to hydrate, firm and

protect skin from free radical damage. Oasis Beauty BB Creams (RRP $49.90 ea) available at selected health stores and pharmacies.

MaKE-uP BE gonE clEanSing BalM – claSS vaniShing act The last thing to do at night is to dispose of the remains of the day’s make-up but some removers can be harsh on the skin. Fortunately, Trilogy has the answer with Make-Up Be Gone Cleansing Balm, designed to remove make-up (from foundation to mascara and lipstick) while cleansing, toning and moisturising at the same time. So, there’s no longer any need to go over the top when removing that war paint. Trilogy Make-Up Be Gone (RRP $38.90 80ml jar) available at pharmacies nationwide.

givE a littlE liP Summer brings out the bold in us so get a little lippy with Designer Brands two new lip products, Longwear Matte Lip Colour and Invisible Lip Liner. Designed to last all day, Matte Lip Colours come in five fab shades while the formula contains aloe vera extract, peptide complex, green tea extract and vitamins A, C and E to keep lips supple while looking and feeling flawless. Also check out the new Invisible Lip Liner, which primes and defines lips, contouring to prevent lip colour bleeding. Creamy and long-lasting, the new Lip Liner is the perfect base to any Designer Brands lip product. Products are cruelty free and vegan certified.

SEnSE-Sational chriStMaS gift Our luxurious, natural hand soaps are infused with pure and fragrant organic essential oils. Blended with New Zealand cold pressed oils, purified rainwater, and calming vegetable milks, these exotic bars cleanse, moisturise and uplift the senses. Packaged as the perfect gift for Christmas with a frEE Bamboo Face and Body Cloth. (RRP $29). Available in three gorgeous blends: Cedar, Ylang Ylang and Oat Milk; Patchouli, Orange and Almond Milk; Peppermint and Coconut Milk. order online or contact Karyn at www.worldorganic.co.nz/karyn

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Personal enhancement procedures Respected plastic surgeon, MARTIN REES from Marina Specialists addresses the desire by many people to improve on biological features they were born with or changes that have occurred through ageing.

‘

Human nature is such that many of us are not content with how we look or ‘who we are’ for some reason. Nearly all of us have an aesthetic sense that we use to recognise what is beautiful in life; a flower, a bird, child or one’s partner; even one’s self! Equally there are some creatures, sights or people that we do not like to look at as our aesthetic sense of beauty is offended, which is an unpleasant experience. We all have a strong sense of personal identity from seeing ourselves in photos (as other people see us) or in the mirror as we usually see ourselves ( the reverse of how we actually look!) Some people are unfortunately born with features that are outside the ‘normal range’ (biological variation). Some of us as we age change considerably and become something we are not used to seeing...a face or body reminiscent of our mother or father! That person looking back at me is no longer ‘me’ as my brain remembers but the image of an old man or woman. So many patients tell me things like this. The photos taken at a family wedding often catch one unawares, ‘side-on’ showing that humped or hooked nose, or a thick, fat neck that isn’t obvious from the front when looking in the mirror. This may precipitate a person into seeking professional advice from a

What is vitally important is to engage with a plastic surgeon you feel comfortable with; someone whose integrity you can trust, who has many years of experience with well-honed surgical skills to produce consistently good results with a minimum number of unwanted side effects.”

plastic surgeon as to what can be done to ‘reverse the clock’ or take 20 years off the face. Some people like to ‘grow old gracefully’ and simply accept themselves as they are. They are perfectly content with themselves and their lives. Others struggle with the effects of ageing and want to fight against it as strongly as possible.

What is vitally important is to engage with a plastic surgeon you feel comfortable with; someone whose integrity you can trust and who has many years of experience with well-honed surgical skills to produce consistently good results with a minimum number of unwanted side effects.

Modern surgical techniques and medical advances can produce some astounding transformations for the better. Big improvements are often possible; sometimes subtle changes are all that are needed.

This person must be able to offer high quality surgery and be available for post-op care and support. No one regrets buying quality. Going for the cheapest price with a

holiday thrown in at a distant and exotic destination may be a good idea at the time but I’ve seen many complications and bad results from ‘cosmetic tourism’. It is much better not to go to someone whose credentials, skills and training cannot be easily ascertained. At Marina Specialists we offer quality surgery in a quality facility with quality after care by highly skilled surgeons with many years of training and surgical experience to produce results you will be pleased with and we can be proud of!

Martin Rees FRACS Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon Marina Specialists, First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina, Bucklands Beach Ph 534 4040, EDI: marinasp, www.plassurg.co.nz, www.marinamedical.co.nz

42 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Kiwi kids get smart

Fiona Mawley, manager of the society’s Daffodil Enterprises, says the intention behind this programme is to help ensure children stay SunSmart this summer. “We are hoping to encourage schools to place a strong focus on educating children about sun protection – reducing sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and of course, using sunscreen,” she says. “Skin cancer is alarmingly common

“It’s so important to us that children know how to protect themselves, and by doing so, help reduce the incidence of this awful disease.” She adds that sunburn in childhood increases the risk of melanoma in later life. The society is sending its sunscreen to ‘SunSmart Schools’. To become accredited in this respect, schools must have shaded play areas, policies to ensure children wear hats outdoors, have sunscreen available, and are committed to educating the school community about the risks of Uv radiation and the importance of skin protection. More information for schools wishing to become SunSmart is available at sunsmartschools.org.nz.

60 CAPS RRP $49.90

39.90

When mentioning this advert

Win!

Thanks to the good folk at the Cancer Society, EastLife has a sunscreen pack (includes: 200ml Kids Pure and 100ml Everyday) up for grabs! Enter via the competitions page at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close January 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Breakthrough Science Combines Nature and Innovation Nutritional Support to Leave Grey Hair Behind

etAwayGrey is an all-natural, healthy Super Premium Formula featuring a carefully developed proprietary blend of the highest quality ingredients to help prevent and reverse grey hair from the inside out! The Super Premium GetAwayGrey vitamin, mineral and herbal formula contains an ultrahigh concentration of the clinically studied Catalase enzyme to help combat grey hair whilst also combining additional vitamins, minerals and herbs to bring lustre and thickness to your hair. Scientists have found that a build-up of hydrogen peroxide is the main cause of greying hair. Hydrogen peroxide is naturally produced by the body and Catalase has the unique ability to break it down. As we age, there is a drop in the production of Catalase (Catalase stops hydrogen peroxide from breaking down melanin, our hair and skin pigment) and if our body does not produce enough Catalase, the hydrogen peroxide will

bleach natural hair colour to grey. GetAwayGrey has been developed to restore Catalase to help halt or slow the grey hair process! Nutritional deficiencies , stress, smoking, medical conditions as well as ageing can cause greying. This formula contains B Vitamins such B6, Biotin, Folic Acid, PABA which are essential nutrients for hair nourishment and pigmentation. A deficiency in any of these nutrients may be related to greying. Other herbs such as Horsetail (high in silica), Nettle Root, Barley Grass are also included for their tonic, antioxidant, detoxifying and adaptogenic actions. Just take two GetAwayGrey capsules, once a day, after a meal. Customer experiences have shown, that in some individuals, results may be seen as soon as 8 weeks while others may take up to 12 weeks. This depends on individual levels of Catalase and ability to absorb and build these levels.

AVAILABLE AT:

ED IN OU ST

HH HH H Park Highland g Centre Shoppin H

Shop 33, Highland Park Shopping Centre, Howick. Phone/Fax 534 0445.

HH HH

So, to make sure some of the most vulnerable Kiwis are protected, The Cancer Society is giving away more than 100,000 tubes of its SPF50+ sunscreen to early childhood centres, primary and intermediate schools nationwide.

and yet largely preventable. Both New Zealand and Australia have the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

TR U

Just as a spoonful of sugar can help the medicine go down, a mere 5ml of sunscreen (per adult-sized limb) can ensure we stay safe under the summer sun.

M UN

RW1354

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Time fix your skin But, it’s only To finally

pimples…

Let this be your year!

Come to About skin and receive a free consultation to solve all of your skin issues.

We provide the latest, most effective treatments available at an affordable price. 5 Reeves Road, Pakuranga Phone 576 1550

Before

Beth was 16 years old and for her, it wasn’t a case of “only pimples”. It was a major disaster in her life. She explained how the kids at school made fun of her, she felt excluded and hated her nickname of “pizza face”. I listened to Beth’s journey of skin peels, laser treatment and antibiotics, which had given temporary, but no permanent solution.

After

info@aboutskin.co.nz www.aboutskin.co.nz

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We at About skin believe that everyone deserves great skin!

CLIVE PLUCKNETT, Naturopath, P.G.Dip. Anti Aging Medicine, P.G.Dip. Cancer Nutrition, P.G.Dip. Mental Health Nutrition, MBA, BA, P.G.Dip Science

Beth listened as I gave her my pimples talk. I explained that while pimples were very common in the western world, they were virtually unknown in indigenous cultures and in our own history. Recently, hormones have been given a bad rap as the cause of pimples and while they do play a part, pimples are driven by other factors.

Make the right choice about your dental care

Pimples form because there is an overproduction of oil, which combines with dead skin and skin debris, causing a blockage. Behind the blockage, bacteria breed away. The immune system gets into the act and then there is inflammation, pus and pain. Voila, pimples! You shouldn’t squeeze or scrub pimples as it can result in scarring and more infection but when you are 16, and have a date pending, this may be the least of your concerns.

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

Beth just wanted the pimples gone, but it was really important that she understood what was driving them so that she knew what she had to do to get rid of them.

• Teeth whitening • All ceramic tooth ﬁlling materials using Cerec3 cad-cam, 3D technology • Permanent tooth replacements with dental implants • For gum health and maintenance call our hygienist Shelley Chadwick • All aspects of general dentistry

• Testosterone drives the production

of excess oil (but what is driving the testosterone?) • The thing that normally binds up the testosterone so it doesn’t cause mischief is normally reduced (but what is driving the reduction?) • There is a substance that stimulates the skin cell growth (what is driving that?) • The major bacteria is something called P Acnes (what does it feed on and how do you get rid of it?) We carried out some tests to see what the answers were in Beth’s case. The answers were clear. At the second consultation I explained to Beth what was going on in her body leading to the factors driving the acne. We then went through the treatment plan to get her skin back to where she wanted it. It consisted of diet changes, lifestyle changes, nutrients and some basic skin care. She listened intently and then asked the big question, “How long?” She did not like my answer, “several weeks. We need to work with your body. You will get the results, but it will not happen overnight”. Beth did achieve her goals and in the process became the confident and outgoing person she was destined to be. If pimples are messing with your life, you may want to identify the causes and fix them.

Call us now on 530 8461 or 530 8271 Whitford Village, Whitford, Auckland David Cain B.D.S(UK) • Rick Parﬁtt B.D.S. • Shelley Chadwick

E522335

Evening appointments available BeWell Clinic – Unleash Your Wellness Potential 730 Whitford Road, Whitford Village. Ph 530 8143, 021 490 801. bewell@clear.net.nz. www.bewell.net.nz Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not to be used as a substitute to professional, personalised advice. The views are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor.

44 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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E J S W S S

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Staying trim over summer Talk to the team at your local Jetts club for more health tips and exercise information. This article is provided by Olly Coffey, Development and Support for mibodycoach.com, and consultant to Jetts 24-Hour Fitness. At this time of year it is all too easy to over indulge and when that happens it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long before the swimsuit no longer fits and summer wardrobes start bursting at the seams! For those trying to rein in some of the partying and who want to ensure additional wining and dining doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take an unacceptable toll, then grab your diary, highlight all planned Christmas events, shopping trips, baking marathons and end of year deadlines, on top of your normal commitments. This alone will bring on a sweat! Next, seriously consider how to fit an exercise regime into your preChristmas schedule and the following holiday weeks regardless of how busy they are â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a lot can be achieved in 20 minutes.

You can travel to the gym or park, complete an effective exercise session, and have a shower, in less than an hour and this would be ideal. However, if this really does become too difficult then think power workouts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; short, sharp exercise sessions where you move swiftly between exercises, limit your rest, and maintain a challenging intensity. In an effective â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;power workoutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, you need to push yourself to achieve as much as you can in 20 minutes while pacing yourself so that you are still standing by the end of the session. The challenge is to juggle how hard you are working with how long you need to last. Where this is just too strenuous because of age or health difficulties try increasing your outdoor activity instead. Give 30 minutes in the day

EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH A SINGLE STEP

to a brisk walk, a jog or even time out in the garden where you are required to bend and lift. If walking (or jogging) mix up the routes and terrain. This way you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get bored with the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;same old, same oldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Add a hill or a staircase so the physical demand on your body is increased. Try running on sand too. Where possible, add in some resistance-based bodyweight exercises â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whilst walking do some squats, press-ups, lunges, crunches and pull-ups. Exercise â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;equipmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; could come in the form of a park bench or playground jungle gyms and some walking tracks even have dedicated exercise bays with the appropriate equipment in place. Cycling is also a fantastic way to exercise and a great mode of transport. Try cycling to work, school or around town. At family gatherings include games and fun sports â&#x20AC;&#x201C; friendly cricket, touch, tiggy, or other activities that require a little effort, and make exercise fun.

Exercise in any form, will help improve health and wellness but keep an eye on festive eating too. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the season of goodwill end in disappointment over gained kilos or that heavy feeling of lethargy. If you would like more advice on how to enjoy being more active, visit your local gym or make an appointment with a qualified exercise professionals.

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

* Fortnightly membership options are based on a recurring direct debit from a nominated bank account or credit card. 12 month memberships are paid a year in advance. Family membership option is available when two or more friends or family members join the same club. Joining fees may vary between clubs. Jetts Fitness terms and conditions apply and are available at www.jetts.co.nz or at your local club.

45 E510383-v4

Raising the pizza bar Sardinia’s stunning coastline, rugged mountains, diverse history, ancient architecture and its legendary bronze-age stone structures make it hard to understand why one would leave this Mediterranean gem but talking to a talented young pizza chef from the island, HELEN PERRY appreciated his desire to explore lands down under. Unlike many young men with wanderlust, Gianluca Deidda’s mature focus on learning and enhancing his culinary career whilst also seeing the world is a little startling. No late night drinking parties for this young man but rather a passion to excel in what he does and, perhaps, to one day own land away from the big cities where he can grow enough vegetables to sustain his own needs. But for now it’s all about his career and within two days of arriving in Auckland earlier this year he had scored a job as pizza chef at Passito Italian Restaurant in Ti Rakau Drive. He started two days later taking no time off to ‘holiday’. Eight months later he placed third in the pizza making competition at the Auckland Food Show, quite a feat for a relative newcomer to the art. “I was really surprised because there were at least 30 other pizza makers in the competition and all more experienced than me. I didn’t expect to place as I hadn’t been using that particular flour for very long so my dough was not perfect, but I am happy all the advice I had received from back home helped me to a placing.” Young as he is – 25 years old – Luca, as Kiwi mates call him, has worked in hospitality for nearly 10 years, initially completing five years at an Italian hospitality school – three years general training then two years specialising in front of house. While he has largely worked on the floor in restaurants, various part time jobs while training and then later, also provided kitchen experience. However, it wasn’t until Luca headed for Australia that he became increasingly enamoured with the art of making quality pizza dough.

‘

I became more and more fascinated in the art of making the pizza dough. The raising and the stretching of the dough are really important; it needs to be kept light and easily digested. Hydration also has to be taken into account.”

“My family had moved to northern Italy, near Venice, but the time had come to challenge myself and see if there was more for me in the world. I don’t like big cities and I don’t like the cold so I headed for Australia where I thought I would be surrounded by nature and it would be warm.” Luca started out in Sydney working in a variety of Italian establishments before heading to Byron Bay where he had a farm job in keeping with his working holiday visa. From there it was on to Ipswich in Queensland, where he had a chance to further his pizza-making skills. “I worked in the same Italian cafe for 18 months doing almost everything but namely making pizza. The head pizza maker taught me so much and I became more and more fascinated in the art of making the pizza dough. The raising and the stretching of the dough are really important; it needs to be kept light and easily digested. Hydration also has to be taken into account.

46 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

gianluca deidda “Of course, there are different types of dough but I still like a thin, crunchy base which means it must be cooked slowly. But naturally, chefs adapt their recipes to suit clientele.” At The Food Show, Luca entered Passito’s best-selling pizza with a relatively simple topping of tomato sauce, cured Parma ham, cheese, rocket, cherry tomatoes and a balsamic glaze with a sprinkle of parmesan. “It was all about the dough. The judges weren’t interested in the topping only the dough. First they checked the temperature, then they assessed how we did the stretching; next came the cooking and finally the quality of the end result – just the outer crust of the dough and how well it had risen.” Luca admits that these days pizza can come with many different toppings and he is aware of the strong demand in New Zealand for gourmet style pizza featuring flavours from various countries. “At home if I put barbecue sauce or chicken on a pizza I would be killed,” he laughs. “But here both are really popular and, realistically, we make what sells.” As for Luca his favourite remains the

traditional, thin-based margherita pizza. “It’s what I grew up with. My father was a baker and even now the smell of flour reminds me of my childhood and time spent in the bakery. Maybe making dough is in my blood and that is why I have settled on perfecting my pizza skills.” During his time in Australia Luca says he also started studying nutrition more closely. “This made me make changes to my diet and lifestyle. I now lean much more towards fresh vegetables and eat less red meat and processed foods and no sugar. But I still enjoy a pizza!” The more time he spends in the southern hemisphere the more Luca says he can see the advantages of settling this way but there’s no mention of pizza parlour dreams; rather the call of the land hovers close. “I had already decided I liked Australia; I even spent time up around Cape Tribulation living with no electricity. But I haven’t seen much of New Zealand yet. Everyone tells me the South Island is very beautiful and I want to buy a van then do some travelling; nature and the outdoors is what I really love so, who knows, I may end up staying!” www.eastlife.co.nz

Make this Christmas merry one with our great range of delicious a

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

47 RW1328-v2

d e r e w e k S Pizza Roll FOR THE Dough:

method:

• 250ml water • 400/450 grams of ‘00’ flour per pizza • 4g fresh yeast or alternatively 2g dry yeast • 1/4 tsp honey (optional) • 15g sea salt • 10ml extra virgin olive oil

To guarantee maximum digestibility, taste and fragrance, make dough one day in advance. Dissolve yeast in a bowl with the water. If using dry yeast, add a little bit of honey to activate the yeast.

for the fillings: • 1/2 cup tomato sauce • 80g of mozzarella cheese • Pinch oregano • 50g champagne ham • Handful of fresh rocket • 30g shaved Parmesan

Add 1/3 of the flour and mix until it’s a smooth and lumpless consistency. Add salt, olive oil and the rest of the flour, adding the latter slowly. Keep kneading and pushing the dough, over and over again, folding it on itself. The dough is ready when it is compact, smooth and elastic. The exact quantity of flour depends of the brand used. If the dough is still wet and sticky, add a little more flour but very carefully; the dough needs to be kept soft and a bit humid. At this point, leave the dough to rest inside the bowl for at least three hours at room temperature. Ensure the bowls is covered with a wet tea towel or cling wrap. Later it can be moved to the fridge, where it can stay even for a few days if necessary.

48 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

This fresh take on pizza comes from Gianluca Deidda, award-winning pizza chef at Passito Italian Restaurant on Ti Rakau Drive, East Tamaki, is a great party appetiser.

The next day take the dough from the fridge and allow it to warm up for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 220 degrees celsius. Place dough on a flour-dusted surface and start to push it by hand. Then stretch it with a rolling pin, to create a regular rectangular shape. Line baking tray with foil and lay the stretched dough on the tray. Prick the base several times with a fork then place in oven for just three minutes; enough to pre cook. Remove from oven and spread with tomato sauce, a pinch of salt, oregano, and mozzarella cheese. Place tray back in oven and cook for a further for 12-15 minutes – you will know your own oven best. Towards end of cooking time check the bottom of the pizza carefully, lifting it with a fork, but, to avoid oven losing heat, do not leave the door open too long. Remove pizza from oven when it is almost, but not totally, cooked. Allow pizza to cool before proceeding with the next step.

When cool, cut the edges of the pizza, to make a perfectly even, rectangular shape. Place ham along the longest half the pizza, covering only half. Top the ham with parmesan and rocket. Then, starting on the side with the ingredients, roll up the pizza tightly like a kebab. Be careful it doesn’t break. Once fully rolled, cut into “pizza rings” 2/3 centimeters thick. Stab each ring with a bamboo toothpick to keep it firmly closed. Decorate the pizza skewer by putting one olive, a cherry tomato and a 1/4 artichoke along this tip. Put them back into oven under the grill for 2 1/2 minutes or, alternatively, keep in the fridge, for a special appetiser or aperitivo with an Italian spritz. CHEF’S TIP: To roll the pizza properly in a kebab style you need to keep the dough soft and at least half centimetre thick.

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ni fried fish with a zingy citrus Malvaand chardonnay salad Rasika Dabhade, director and head chef of Howick’s Portuguese/Goan restaurant, Xacuti says this recipe symbolises her grandmother’s cooking skills which were all about flavours and simplicity.

Serves 2-3 people

for fish coating:

For Salad dressing:

Salad vegetables:

For marination:

• 1.5 cups (or about 200g) semolina • 2 egg yolks • 1 cup rice flour • Salt to taste • 2 tsp crushed black pepper • Oil for frying

• 100ml chardonnay vinegar • 100ml extra virgin olive oil • Juice of one lime • 2 tsp honey • 2 tsp grain mustard • 1 tbsp chopped coriander

Method:

• 1 carrot cut Julienne style • 2 thinly sliced radishes • 1 medium beetroot cut Julienne style • 200g spring onion cut length wise • 1 mandarin peeled and segmented • 1 grapefruit peeled and segmented • 1 tbsp crushed, roasted peanuts

Heat oil in a pan. Mix salt and pepper with rice flour then first coat fish fillets with rice flour, recoat with beaten egg yolks, then roll in semolina before shallow frying both sides of coated fish over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes depending on thickness of fillets. Serve with the citrus salad.

Blend all the ingredients in blender.

• 500g snapper or tarakihi fillets • Juice and zest of one lemon • 1 tsp turmeric powder •2 .5 tsp red chilli powder (mild version – kashmiri chilli powder) • 2 tsp coriander powder • 2.5 tsp chopped ginger • 2 tsp chilli flakes • Salt to taste

Method: Marinate fish fillets in all of the above ingredients above for at least half an hour in the fridge.

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Method: Mix all ingredients in salad bowl then lightly toss in prepared citrus dressing. Serve with the spicy Malvani fried fish fillets. Chefs tip: Make gluten-free by replacing semolina with polenta.

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Pum pkinPie Ajay Zalte – executive chef, Waipuna International Hotel and Conference Centre. Ajay is a Pakuranga resident and has worked in leading hotels and first class restaurants worldwide.

This recipe makes 1 medium sized pie.

For the Pie:

For the Pastry:

• 1 cup cooked and mashed pumpkin • 2 eggs • 3/4 cup white sugar • 1 level dessertspoon flour • 1/2 tsp salt • 1 tsp ginger • 1/2 tsp cinnamon • 1/4 tsp cloves • 1 cup milk

• 5 1/2 cups flour • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 450gm butter • 1 egg • 1 tbsp vinegar

Method: Add salt and baking powder to flour and stir. Cut in butter till fine crumbs are formed. Beat egg in cup, add vinegar. Take 3/4 cup of water and mix with flour/butter mixture till dough rolls out nicely. Roll in a baking pie tin.

Method: Mix sugar, flour & spices and add to pumpkin. Add beaten egg and milk. Pour in to unbaked pie shell. Bake at 165 degrees C. for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean.

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Mum’sBread and Butter Pudding RINTOUL RAMSAY is head chef at Drury’s Red Shed Palazzo, whose owner Paul Smith, operated the Palazzo Cafe inside Palmers Garden Centre, Pakuranga for many years before heading south.

Ingredients:

Method:

Bread Layer • 15 slices thick white bread • 1/2 cup raspberry Jam • 60g butter • 2 cups of desiccated coconut

Preheat oven to 160ºC.

Custard • 6 eggs beaten • 1 cup milk • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 tsp vanilla essence Meringue • 8 egg whites • 250g sugar • 1 tsp cornflour • 1 tsp white vinegar • 1 tsp vanilla essence

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Bread Layer: Spread butter and jam over each slice of bread. Make sure each slice is entirely covered right to the edges. (Personally I like using heaps of butter and jam). Spray an oven proof baking dish with cooking spray. Then do one layer of the buttered, jammed bread and sprinkle generously with coconut. Repeat until all the bread is used and finish off with a final sprinkle of coconut.

Custard: In a large bowl mix eggs with milk, sugar and vanilla until sugar is dissolved. Mix until the mixture is well blended. Pour over layered bread. Meringue: In a clean mixing bowl, whisk egg whites on high, until soft peaks form. While the egg whites are whisking slowly add sugar. Then add cornflour, vanilla and white vinegar. Once mixed in, pour the meringue over the bread layers. Spread right to the edges of the baking dish. Bake pudding in a pre-heated oven at 160ºC fan-forced for 30 mins or until set and golden on top.

Serve with thickened pouring cream and enjoy. Serves 6 Chef’s tiP: For variety, swap coconut for sultanas or raisins or both. Or for a chocolately treat use chocolate spread instead of jam.

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Sheds ahead for awards Stylish cafes are often associated with the inner city suburbs where suits and ties buy coffees boasting elaborate names. And yet, if the NZ Cafe of the Year Awards is anything to go by, regular Joes are just as up to preparing a flash cup, with a splash of sophistication.

WIN with

George Barton

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George Barton from Aroma Shed Cafe in Highland Park says reaching the finals (Classic Kiwi Cafe – Auckland region) was quite the ‘pick-me-up’.

December 7, George is hopeful Aroma will enjoy the sweet smell of success, which he believes comes down to doing the simplest of things just right.

“We never thought anything like this could happen, it’s unbelievable! We’re quite excited about the prospect that we could win.

“We believe in honest, quality, homemade food at an affordable price which is served in a welcoming, relaxed environment,” he adds.

“Our fingers are crossed, however, there are some wonderful cafes out there that could have a better chance at winning than our little place, but I think getting this far is an achievement of its own.”

Another cafe with local connections set to impress is Red Shed Palazzo (Rural Cafe section). Operated by former east Aucklanders, Kristina and Paul Smith, the Drury business features a spacious cafe – in a red shed! – surrounded by splendid gardens.

In addition to category titles and other perks, finalists will feature on a Top Cafés of New Zealand microsite. Winners of the coveted Supreme Award will receive prizes including a $40,000 magazine editorial package, a $10,000 tour of Melbourne cafes and a year’s use of a Renault Kangoo.

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“It was a big surprise for us to be chosen. My husband, Paul, and I are feeling very privileged to have such a wonderful local community which has helped make this happen. We certainly couldn’t have made it this far without the hard work from our amazing team!

“Making the finals will mean more exposure across a wider area. It is real vindication for all the hard work we’ve put in, from the cafe and gardens to the marketing as well.” The pair acquired and renovated the business a little more than four years ago, after moving to the Franklin region from Pakuranga where Paul operated the former Palazzo Cafe inside the Palmers Garden Centre on Pakuranga Rd for many years. While their escape to the country provided a labour of love, it was certainly no walk in the park! “We bring together a good mix of skills,” says Kristina, a former graphic designer. “I largely tackle the marketing and front of house, while Paul [an experienced chef and cafe owner] is the chef; we’re both keen gardeners with an eye for design. But our success really has come down to a lot of hard work and, of course, that of our dedicated and amazing team.”

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Superb food ON THE GO Ever heard of zoodles? Bliss balls? Chia puddings? Not just buzz words, these delicious offerings are becoming an essential part of a healthy, wholesome lifestyle. To help foodies and health advocates on their journey, Kiwi health supplement provider Go Healthy has now introduced a range of antioxidant-packed superfoods – in a convenient scoop/sprinkle powder/tablet form! Health junkies will love the new range with a rainbow of exotic superfoods from spirulina to beetroot and acai berry – nature’s superstars minus the prep, washing, grinding and blitzing.

While some are already wellknown, others such as maca, maqui berry, chlorella and camu camu are lesser known. However, with such powerful antioxidant properties there’s no reason they shouldn’t be on everyone’s shopping list. For example the camu camu berry contains 60 times more vitamin C than an orange, the maqui berry has the highest level of antioxidants compared to any other berry, and barley grass

balances and alkalises our bodies which need to be slightly alkaline to be healthy. Go Healthy ambassador and journalist Carly Flynn is enthused about the new line of superfoods which are all organic with no additives, and says it’s in line with her busy lifestyle as a mum of two. And if it’s good enough for Carly, we think it’s good enough too! Check out the recipe below and give it a GO!

fiSh of thE Month

YELLOWBELLY FLOUNDER From Oceanz Seafood, The Hub, Botany With summer approaching yellow belly flounder are back on the menu in many fish shops around the area. These flounder are a favourite among connoisseurs of New Zealand seafood due to the taste and texture of the flesh.

SUPER BERRY RAW COOKIE SANDWICH Makes 8 serves

MEthoD:

ingrEDiEntS:

Blend all the cookie ingredients in food processor or high powered blender until thoroughly combined creating a soft cookie dough texture. Take a heaped teaspoon of mixture and roll into a ball.

for the cookies: • 1 cup chopped dates • 1 cup nuts (almonds or cashews) • 1 tbsp almond butter • 2 tbsp coconut oil • 3 tbsp GO Cacao Powder • 1 tsp of honey for the filling: • 3/4 cup of cashews • 1 -2 tsps of honey • 4 tbsp of coconut oil (melted) • 2-3 tsps of GO Acai Berry powder • 1/4 tsp of GO Superfood – optional • Beetroot powder for a vibrant pink filling www.eastlife.co.nz

Flatten the dough between the palms of your hands to make a round cookie shape approx 40-50mm diameter & 70mm deep. Press onto a tray lined with baking paper. Place in freezer for half an hour to set while you make your filling. Blend cashews and melted coconut oil, to form a butter/ paste consistency. Add Acai berry powder and 1 teaspoon honey and

They are a shallow-water fish and locally they are caught in the Firth of Thames and in the Kaipara and Manukau harbours, most commonly in set nets

blend for a further 5-10 seconds. Taste test and either omit or add the extra teaspoon of honey for your preferred level of sweetness.

Flounder fish biology is very unusual. They hatch offshore as a normal looking fish and swim in the water column. However, during the larval stage the left eye migrates around to the right side of the fish.

Once happy with flavour, stir through the optional 1/4 teaspoon beetroot powder for a vibrant pink berry colour and added antioxidant boost.

This takes around six to 10 weeks and when complete the baby flounder settle on the bottom as a recognisable flatfish.

Spread a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of one cookie and sandwich together with another cookie on top. These are best served refrigerated for half an hour but can also be consumed straight away. Will keep in fridge for 1-2 weeks. • Go Superfood products are available at major supermarkets.

They are short lived and reach legal size around two years old with few surviving more than five years. This is made up for by the fact they are prolific breeders. Cooking flounder is simple. Just dry the fish, dust with seasoned flour and fry in a hot pan coated with half butter and half olive oil. Cook until the skin crisps on the first side, then flip and cook the other side for the same length of time. eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Serious summer drinking Whether during the morning after or the night before, a little fluid thinking is a must throughout summer. This month, we’ve assembled some of the best, recently-launched tipples designed to tempt the palate.

Put DE Straw in Da coconut While people may be marvellously creative in mixing up various liquids, Mother Nature is among the best in the business when getting fresh, so the good folk at vita Coco figured ‘why mess with a winning recipe?’ Refreshingly simple, vita Coco contains water from fresh, young coconuts... that’s it! What’s more, coconut water is fat-free, low in calories, cholesterol-free, and rich in minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes. RRP $4.49/1L from supermarkets.

gEtting fruit-tEa! While tea for two or many more might be just the ticket, it’s twice as nice on ice during summer! Designed to provide a cool brew for a hot day, Bell’s new range of fruity-infused green and fruit teas are perfect (especially for tea-totallers) when it comes to ringing in the New Year. With a range of flavours, including: Zesty Green Pink Grapefruit & Lime, Zesty Blackberry & Pear (RRP $3.90), Fruit Tea Raspberry & Lime, and Fruit Tea Orange & Mango (RRP $3.40), Bell’s new varieties are available from supermarkets.

haPPy nEw BEEr! cucKoo for coconutS Extending more than just a little milk of island kindness, Little Island Coconut Creamery has released a range of dairy-free coconut milk drinks. While these creamy beverages can be enjoyed straight from the bottle, they’re also great in smoothies, cocktails, on cereal or even in baking. Little Island’s Coconut Drinking Milk is available in chocolate (RRP $7.99/1L) or original ($5.99/1L) from supermarkets and specialty stores.

With its (par-rum-pum-pum) Rum Barrel Sour, Tripel Sauvignon and Sour Grapes, the Kiwi brewer has the pick of the bunch with this new trio of festive beers. Rum Barrel Sour is loosely based on a Flanders red ale and aged in rum barrels for a sherry-like, slightly tart taste; Tripel Sauvignon mixes grape and grain to create a refreshing blend with fruity flavour; and some brewers are bound to be jealous about Sour Grapes’ Belgianstyle, wheat-based recipe. RRP $9.99/375ml bottle from selected supermarkets, liquor stores and bars.

PouraBlE yoghurt – So gooD, no Bull! Cow-a-bunga! The Collective has launched two new, udderly delicious Kefir Tummy Love Pourable Yoghurt flavours – Kefir Blueberry and Kefir Unsweetened Coconut – designed to keep tummies ship-shape. With loads of nutrients, protein, probiotics and no added cane sugar combined with The Collective natural smooth yoghurt, these ‘bubbly’ drinks are great for inner health – especially following festive ‘celebrations’! Full of millions and millions of live probiotic cultures plus real blueberries or coconut, these mocktail-like elixirs combine fruit with effervescent kefir – active cultures made from yeast and bacteria fermented with milk. RRP$6.29/1L at supermarkets and specialty food stores.

cruiSing through chriStMaS Let diminutive scientologist thespians worry about impossible missions; thanks to our great estate, being on a Mission this festive season is an easy ‘Fête’ to master. From Mission Fête Hand Harvested Cuvee (RRP $20) and Mission Estate Rose ($16.50), to Mission Reserve (Merlot 2013 and Chardonnay 2014, both $29.00 a ‘pop’), as well as Mission Huchet (Chardonnay 2013, $89, and Syrah 2013, $129), Mission Estate celebrates with corking gift ideas for Christmas and the New Year.

54 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

esigner

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Z: 1.00

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

Last Saved: 29 May, 2013

Printed: 29 May, 2013 16:58

Fabric:

THE HOTEL CLEVEDON

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

CASA TUA RESTAURANT

The Wairoa Brasserie at The Hotel Clevedon has a varied menu and smart modern decor. Try all you can eat pizza and pasta for $20 on Monday nights or the popular Sunday roast with all the trimmings. Check out the family friendly garden bar with plenty of outdoor furniture. Private function area available.

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

If you’re looking for tasty Italian fare, then look no further. Cosily tucked away in Farm Cove, you’ll find Casa Tua Restaurant & The Tapas Room. We’re open Tuesday-Sunday every evening where you can dine in our main restaurant, enjoy tapas in The Tapas Room or grab takeaways on your way home. BYO Wine is available when dining in the main restaurant. Full bar available in The Tapas Room. We’re also the perfect venue for private functions.

• BOOK NOW – With doors opening to a private marquee area The Hotel Clevedon is the perfect venue for your Christmas function. 26 Clevedon Kawakawa Rd, Clevedon. Ph 292 8783 Brasserie open Wed 5-9pm, Thurs-Sun 11-1am. Bar meals Tues-Sun from 5pm www.thehotelclevedon.co.nz

LICENSED

• SET ChRISTMAS MENu AvAILABLE • fuNCTION SPACE available up to 100 people • NEw SuMMER MENu OuT NOw

• DAILY HAPPY HOUR 5-6PM

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

190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove. Ph 576 3739. Open 6 nights, Tues to Sun Bar from 4pm, Restaurant 6pm-late www.casa-tua.co.nz

LICENSED

BYO • LICENSED

Red Shed

Palazzo

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

 RED ShED PaLazzo CoUNTRY CaFE

1981 BAR & RESTAURANT

OCEANZ SEAFOOD BOTANY

Tucked down Jesmond Rd, just 1km from the motorway off-ramp at Drury, Red Shed Palazzo is a stylish eatery nestled amongst beautiful country gardens. Family (and dog) friendly with a children’s playground, the tranquil environment offers relaxed indoor/outdoor dining and is perfect for special occasions.

Located just off the Southern Motorway, 1981 is Manukau’s busiest nightspot. For those wanting to dine in or simply socialise with a few after work drinks then 1981 has it all. An all day brunch and full dinner menu caters for all ages. Fully licensed with two function rooms, three outdoor decks and ample room for walk-ins, come check out our tasty bourbon ribs, homemade pizzas and more. Contact us for more information.

From our boats to your plates – At Oceanz we pride ourselves on the consistency and freshness of our seafood and on the awardwinning takeaways we have been serving our customers for more than 10 years. The freshest seafood delicatessen in town – check out our huge range of fish and shellfish along with ready to eat seafood and mouthwatering, fresh takeaways – the best catch in town!

• FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE – FREE HIRE

• TAKING CHRISTMAS ORDERS NOW!

• CHECK OUT OUR NEW SUMMER MENU

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

• MERRY ChRISTMaS & haPPY NEW YEaR – Red Shed Palazzo will be having a Christmas break from Thursday, December 24 and reopening Friday, January 8. Happy holidays. 64 Jesmond Road, Karaka. Ph 09 294 6687. open 7 days, 8.30am-4pm. www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

LICENSED

56 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

712 Great South Road, Manukau. Ph 263 9696. Open 7 days from 12pm www.1981.co.nz

LICENSED

$ www.eastlife.co.nz

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

THAI

Restaurant

PASSITO ITALIAN RESTAURANT

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Come in and try our award-winning wood-fired pizza or gourmet pasta from our NEW SUMMER MENU!

After 16 successful years in the heart of Howick, Benjarong is a household name in the east, consistently maintaining its tradition of menu, service and decor excellence. Now, a stunning new makeover and a Monday to Thursday Happy Hour with the most delectable snacking plates and low, low prices, is providing dedicated foodies who love the exotic with scores of reasons to dine at this Howick jewel.

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

• OPEN LUNCH EVERY DAY • AWARD-WINNING WOOD-FIRED PIZZA – Take-away available • NEW SUMMER MENU • GOLF MEMBERS 10% OFF: Pakuranga Golf Club, Howick Golf Club. T&C apply • CATERING OPTIONS AVAILABLE • PRIVATE FUNCTIONS AVAILABLE – We create menus to suit your needs and budgets 298B Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood. Ph 273 9797. Open Monday-Sunday 11.30am-late www.passito.co.nz • Find us on facebook

LICENSED

• HAPPY HOUR MON-THURS – $6 beers and house wine from 4.30-6.30pm 87 Picton Street, Howick. Ph 533 9568. Open Lunch Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 4.30pm till late www.benjarong.co.nz

LICENSED • BYOW

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

LICENSED • BYO

RESTAURANT & BAR

DooLaN BrothErS BotaNy

THE APOTHECARY

XACUTI RESTAURANT & BAR

Doolans Botany serves a fine array of pub food, encompassing NZ’s freshest produce. Our kids’ meals all come with a wee surprise to keep the little ones occupied whilst you enjoy your meal. Sundays are a great day to spend relaxing at Doolans. With a live acoustic duo and outdoor cocktail bar serving fruit daiquiris in our sunny beer garden, it’s worth giving the beach a miss.

COME IN and TRY the NEW MENU at The Apothecary Licensed Bar and Eatery!

Xacuti is Auckland’s first Goan-Portuguese restaurant. It celebrates the cuisine and culture of Goa which was colonised by the Portuguese for more than 450 years. Its culinary style is largely seafood-based and symbolises a harmony of flavours from East and West. Intense spices especially chilli, as well as chicken and coconut milk, are also typical of this unique cuisine.

• rEStaUraNt QUaLIty FooD @ PUB PrICES – 2 courses for $34.95 or 3 courses for $39.95 from 5pm weekdays and all day weekends. 588 Chapel road, Botany town Centre Ph 271 2001. open 7 days, 9am-10pm www.doolanbrothers.co.nz

LICENSED www.eastlife.co.nz

• NEW BREAkfAST AND LUNCH MENU – Café OPEN 7 days from 7am • TRY OUR NEW SMALL PLATE DINING MENU – Wednesday-Saturday, 6pm till late • THE CELLAR HAPPY HOUR – 4-6pm Wed-Sat, $5 wine and beer, $9 cocktails Planning a function? Choose The Apothecary for your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday! We’ll make your function one to remember! Email info@theapothecary.co.nz

• CUISINE BEYOND BOUNDARIES Eat. Live. Enjoy. • NOW OPEN FOR LUNCH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

27-29 Picton St, Howick. Ph 535 9661. www.facebook.com/theapothecaryhowick

124 Picton St, Howick. Ph 534 3051. Open Tuesday-Sunday 6pm till 10.30pm www.xacuti.co.nz

LICENSED

LICENSED • BYO

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Taste

PEP uP SuMMEr EntErtaining! Fabulous food of the premium kind is one of life’s great delights. That’s why Food Snob’s quality range of cheeses and antipasto additions are a must when entertaining. Now, another cheeky wee number has joined the family. Food Snob’s Bell Peppers are deliciously crisp morsels filled with smooth cream cheese – the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, spicy and sweet. Great on a well-crafted cheese board, they also go beautifully when tossed into summer salads, grilled or barbecued on vegetable skewers or atop bruschetta. Alternatively, just eat them straight from the pottle! Food Snob Bell Peppers filled with Cream Cheese in the deli section of supermarkets nationwide, RRP $5.59.

SwEEt littlE raw DEal If Chantal is expecting to catch more guys (and girls) with vinegar, they’re on the right track! Offering a crisp cider flavour designed to complement the summer table –

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.

particularly as a salad dressing or in marinates – Chantal Organics Raw Apple Cider vinegar is a versatile pantry staple. What’s more, as it’s thought to alleviate heartburn, bowel irregularity and aid in digestion, while improving blood sugar levels, apple cider vinegar appears to be a healthy choice too. Chantal Organics Raw Apple Cider vinegar is available (RRP $6.49/500ml) at specialty stores and supermarkets.

EaSy PEaSy... croStini! Let’s raise a little toast to honest ABE! And while charging our glasses, it’s only fitting to nibble an hors d’oeuvre or two, thanks to ABE’S Bagel Bakery’s latest offering of these classy crostini – Natural or Rosemary & Sea Salt. Literally translating as ‘little toast’, these traditional Italian nibbles are ideally topped with cheese, prosciutto and a slice of peach, or goat’s cheese, vine-ripened tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette – the options are endless. To tuck into a taste of Italy, pick up a pack (120gm – RRP $4.49) from New World and Pak ‘n Save.

58 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

corny? SurE iS! Holidays are just around the corner and it’s soon time to leave a snack out for Santa that he will actually want to eat – providing the kids don’t eat the whole bag first! Delicious, New Zealand Kettle Korn comes in three addictive flavours and is allergy-friendly – it really is a treat the whole family can enjoy, even your vegan rellies and friends. Available in snack-sized, family-sized, and sturdy Santa-sized tins, New Zealand Kettle Korn is in all leading supermarkets nationwide.

two for tEa? Many of the finer things in life take two, baby. However, despite their name, Marcel’s Tandums, buck this trend... or do they? You see, these fluffy pancake-like snacks take two parts to party (top and bottom layers) but they’re actually available as singles (RRP $1.79) or in six packs (RRP $8.50). Individually wrapped and available from the freezer departments of New World and specialty food stores, these

treats simply need to be thawed for consumption – no heating is required. Featuring chocolate or passionfruit flavours and filled with creamy mascarpone, Tandums are certain to sell like hotcakes!

whEat-frEE oatcaKES anD oat BiScuitS Good things come in small packages or, as the Scots would say, “Guid gear comes in sma’ bulk” which is so true of Nairn’s natural, wheatfree Oatcakes and Oat Biscuits with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Check out Nairn’s Organic Oatcakes, Scottish Oatcakes, Dark Chocolate Chip Oat Biscuits, Mixed Berry Oat Biscuits and Stem Ginger Oat Biscuits and enjoy in a ploughman’s lunch, as canapés, on antipasti platters, or as a base for a guilt-free cheesecake! Packed with low GI wholegrain oats, Nairns Oatcakes are high in soluble fibre and great for digestion while Nairn’s Oat Biscuits have 40% less sugar than the average sweet biscuit. Available at supermarkets (RRP around $4.70, depending on pack size). www.eastlife.co.nz

Look who’s back at the stove! Good news for Casa Tua regulars especially those who remember former head chef, Mike Cook who headed for Queenstown more than two years ago.

lemon – is anything to go by (so, so good) then there’s every reason to taste the former, ASAP! Risotto is a hard dish to get right but Mike’s version pans out perfectly.

Mike’s back in the Casa Tua kitchen and in just a couple of weeks has worked a bit of menu ‘saucery’ including making minor changes to the restaurant’s famous pork belly now served with green peas in lemon and garlic with a pinot jus and still the best crackling ever (so says me!).

Cleverly melding old favourites with new concepts, the chef’s return is welcome, not that the kitchen team hasn’t been doing a great job.

A new lamb rump dish, with its novel medley of broad beans, Portobello mushrooms, peas and pancetta in a mint salsa, tastes pretty damn good and three different people, in one night, praised the risotto with crispy chorizo, peas, goat’s cheese feta and lemon. What’s more, if the market fish – oven-baked snapper served on a bean and asparagus risotto with fresh

I think each one stepped right up to the mark but it’s always nice to see an injection of fresh ideas coming into play. And, it’s not just the mains that have received a boost. Attention has been paid to each section of the menu including desserts – pannacotta, topped with berries, finished with a biscuit and served in a glass – is a suitably light finish to an evening meal although patrons might be hardpressed to fit in one more mouthful after enjoying a generous a Casa Tua main. – Helen Perry

Mike Cook

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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KING NOW TA FOR ORDERS 2016

MY Favourite Thing The name Val Lott has been synonymous with New Zealand beauty pageants for almost 30 years. Although now retired as director of the Miss Howick contest, which she started n 1987, her home still houses various memorabilia of the glamorous event including the original Miss Howick crown.

Crowning beauty! Mention beauty and pageant in the same breath and you just have to add the name, Val Lott, Howick’s own ‘queen of beauty.’

Val was also director of Miss Asia Pacific New Zealand, Miss North Harbour and Miss Counties. Although she finally said ‘enough’ two years ago’ it didn’t mean she could put the limelight totally behind her. Former contestants and pageant queens still visit her regularly and among her favourite things are memorabilia from different contests including gowns, programmes, photos and, most importantly, the Miss Howick crown. “The crown holds a multitude of

val lott memories and has special meaning to me,” Val says. “It was donated by Neville Burke who, for many years, owned Burke’s Traditional Jewellers in Picton St. “The crown really is the prettiest thing even though it is now showing signs of its age. Rhinestones were a given in these glittering tiaras but the addition of elegant drop pearls made this one different. “I can’t think how many lovely young heads it has sat on including the first contest winner, Nicky Gillett, who

framestoday@gmail.com

60 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

Photo Wayne Martin

was crowned way back in 1987. Since then it’s been proudly worn by the likes of Angie Bruce, Tanya Marsh, Nicola Brighty and Sarah McIntyre who went on to be my assistant and also co-ordinated Miss Auckland for several years.” Val says she also has crowns from other contests but the Howick diadem will always be one of her favourite possessions. “It’s a reminder of a very happy time in my life and of so many poised young women who went on to

open mon-fri 9-5 sat 10-2

achieve in other areas of life, too. I was particularly proud that such a lot of the Miss Howick contestants won their way through to major pageants such as Miss Auckland and Miss New Zealand and did extremely well. “That many girls actually live nearby and still call in is really amazing. We can have a laugh over all those incidents which made the events so memorable and, from time to time, I still take out the crown to reflect on the wonderful Howick people who supported the pageants, helping to make them such a success.”

PICTURE FRAMING . CANVAS PRINTING . NZ ART

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Not only was Val the founder and long-standing director of Miss Howick for 25 years, she was also director of Miss Auckland for 17 years, before being appointed New Zealand national director for the Miss Universe organisation, a position she held for her final six years with beauty pageants before retiring.

www.eastlife.co.nz

ADVERTORIAL

Meluka arrives at Danske Mobler Botany

Walk into the Danske Mobler store at Botany and the fresh, vibrant look of its new brand, Meluka, makes an instant impact.

have it as part of the Danske Mobler offering and to have Stu Bowman (originator of the Meluka brand) on our team driving it forward.”

The display is bright and light, colourful and eye-catching. The Meluka look is instantly recognisable as clean and contemporary and reinforces Danske Mobler’s intention to remain at the forefront of furniture design trends in New Zealand.

The Meluka fit-out at Botany is part of a bigger plan to make the furniture available at all Danske Mobler stores and follows the introduction of Meluka at the store’s Three Kings showroom.

So what is this Meluka brand all about? Well, it was started in Ponsonby by the same people behind the Apartmento furniture brand which, over the past 20 years, has been known for its high quality, beautifully hand crafted, contemporary furniture. Meluka was purchased by Danske Mobler in March of this year. It is a www.eastlife.co.nz

full range of furniture which is now manufactured exclusively at Danske Mobler’s factory in Three Kings Auckland. Allan Winter, owner of Danske Mobler, says: “We had been aware of Meluka and had watched with interest as it carved out a pretty nice niche for itself. We’re excited to now

All Meluka furniture comes fully assembled with Danske Mobler’s 10 year structural and workmanship guarantee. It’s fresh, clean look is backed by the strength of Danske Mobler’s 58 years of furniture manufacturing in New Zealand. Stu Bowman says: “It’s really exciting to see Meluka at Danske Mobler which is an absolute icon in the New Zealand furniture scene.

“I am delighted to join them and be part of the growth of something I’ve been involved with from its humble beginnings. It is very satisfying and I’m certain that the Meluka story will be enhanced even further now that Danske owns it and is getting behind the brand”. It’s very clear that Meluka is a great new addition to the Danske Mobler brand and is certainly making an impact at the Botany showroom.

Meluka – Danske Mobler Botany Town Centre 501 Ti Rakau Dr, Botany Ph 09 274 1998 www.meluka.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

EXPLORE OUR EXTENSIVE

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‘Rye’ Queen Bed Frame.

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‘Marvin’ Queen Bed Frame.

‘Summit’ Queen Bookend Bed Frame.

‘Ashley’ Outdoor Corner Lounge Setting.

‘Leon’ Fibre Cement 5-Piece Outdoor Dining Setting.

‘Ocean’ Outdoor Corner Lounge Setting.

‘Como’ 6-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting.

‘Portsea/Freya’ 3-Piece Leather Lounge Suite.

‘Centro’ 5-Seater Leather Corner Lounge Suite.

‘Taylor’ 2-Piece Fabric Lounge Suite.

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Create your dream home with stunning lounge suites, outdoor furniture, bedroom suites, kids furniture and accessories with Harvey Norman. See in store for details on special pricing.

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Shop online or mobile: harveynorman.co.nz or call 0800 464 278 (0800 GO HARVEY)

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62 | eastlife december 2015 / January 2016 on |Quality, Value and Service.

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Packing punch FRUITFUL SUMMER: Forget coke light, the bright sparks at DelightFULL have developed ‘pineapple light’! Part of the Portugal-based lighting designer’s Essentials Collection, the Miranda Pineapple reminds us that the golden days of summer are almost here again! Inspired by another of Portugal’s greatest exports, the tropicalbonneted singer, Carmen Miranda, this brass lamp is just one of DelightFULL’s ‘must have’ designs for this summer. See delightfull.eu/en for details.

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re-designing bedrooms The bedroom is more than just another room in your home, it’s a place of peace; a retreat. It’s that special space where you escape to for a little ‘me’ time, to relax, rejuvenate and wash away the worries of the day with a good night’s sleep. For children, it is also a safe haven where they not only rest but can read and play to their heart’s content. But everyone loves a fresh look, a revitalised ambience and one way to achieve this is to re-design your bedroom from a wide range of stylish, contemporary or modern furniture. At Harvey Norman, choose from beautifully crafted timber, gloss white contemporary styling, country elegance, retro designs, upholstered bed frames and much more. Alternatively consider New Zealandmade which can be customised to suit the size of your space and your personal interior style. RW1288-v3

www.eastlife.co.nz

Shop your style from a wide range of luxury manchester and bedroom décor to add finishing touches – Harvey Norman has everything you need to make your bedroom stunning! And don’t forget the kids. Check out funky bedroom furniture and bunk beds that will turn the kiddies’ bedroom into a truly magical sleeping space. Visit Harvey Norman Mt Wellington & Manukau and start re-designing your bedroom space! eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

French Style Furniture direct from the importer

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

64 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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www.eastlife.co.nz

So cherry, cherry lovely It has been said that cherry blossom, admired the world over yet steeped in moving symbolism, standing for both life and death, its brief blooming representing the short-lived beauty of life.

School groups, families, company gatherings and neighbourhood networks, in fact, people of all description, set out to picnic under the cherry blossoms or sakura as they are known in Japan. It is a time when the Japanese people celebrate with food, dance and music. From the genus, Prunus, there are several varieties of cherry blossom but, in particular, the Japanese cherry, Prunus serrulata, is one of the most beautiful. Thought to be a native to the Himalayas, it has, nevertheless been in Japan since at least 700 AD, if not before, and is now widely distributed around the world. It is also evident here in New Zealand with the township of Te Awamutu being just one place where the spectacular spring display of cherry blossoms in the main street attracts visitors from all over the country. Despite its name, most varieties cultivated for ornamental use do not produce fruit – edible cherries generally come from cultivars of the related species Prunus avium and Prunus cerasus – although cherry blossom is closely related to other Prunus trees such as the almond, peach, plum and apricot and more distantly to apples, pears and roses. There are many traditions surrounding the cherry blossom. For example, they are seen to represent a woman’s beauty – blossoming for a short time before ageing and passing away. In the past, Samurai soldiers – and other fighting men of Japan, for whom an early death was generally expected – the ‘sakura’ was www.eastlife.co.nz

celebrated as symbol of a life that was short and powerful. This was also evident in the Second World War when kamikaze operations were launched and Tokkotai pilots affixed cherry blossom branches to their uniforms and also painted blossoms on the sides of their planes. Apparently, a cherry blossom painted on a bomber symbolised the intense and ephemeral nature of life with some people seeing the falling cherry petals as a representation of the sacrifice of youth in those missions. The first kamikaze unit had a sub-unit called Yamazakura, or wild cherry blossom, and it is believed that the then government even encouraged people to believe that the souls of downed warriors were reincarnated in the blossoms. Cherry blossoms are also edible. For example the blossoms are pickled in salt and umezu (ume vinegar), and used for coaxing out flavor in wagashi, (a traditional Japanese confectionery), and oranpan, (a Japanese sweet bun). Salt-pickled blossoms steeped in hot water are called sakurayu, a drink used to replace green tea at festive events such as weddings. The most common variety of cherry blossom tree in New Zealand is the Yoshino cherry, often called the Awanui cherry, which forms an upright, vase-shaped tree and will grow in most average soils although deeply worked compost will help ensure healthy growth. It does need wind protection and should be pruned heavily in the dormant season and fertilised in spring when its masses of pink buds open to single white flowers. For those lucky enough to have a flowering cherry blossom in their garden, spring should be a time of wonderment.

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Cherry blossoms were in full bloom at the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple where Micky Liao was celebrating the recent Diwali Festival of Lights.

Photo Wayne Martin

Every spring when delicate pink and white cherry blossoms burst into bloom in Japan, the annual round of cherry blossom viewing – called Hanami – begins.

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Pot luck! With more people opting for apartment or terraced house living, hanging planters have gone to the ‘top of the pots’ for being both attractive and space-saving although stands and wall planters are also an option for green-fingered gardeners who no longer have a yard but want an element of greenery in the home. Here are just some pot and planter ideas from Collected in Mt Eden. In particular, the 1960’s look, raw leather hanger (left) by Lightly, and the Lightly magenta and aquamarine leather plant hangers (right), provide a fresh take of creating a hanging garden when short on standing room.

www.collected.co.nz

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66 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Looking out (BEYOND) MY BACKDOOR Forget bringing the outdoors in, this summer’s set to see more Kiwis take the indoors out as one of the hottest home trends continues. With the old patio or deck consigned to the dustbin of fashion, outdoor rooms have become the ‘must have’ for modern homes. However, simply creating indooroutdoor flow (from open-plan kitchens and living rooms) is not enough; design flair must follow with function and form working in harmony. Fortunately, the latest outdoor furniture ranges (such as Mitre 10’s new 2016 collection – see photos) are being developed to suit. From ‘mix

and match’ furnishings – particularly cushions – to wider colour palettes, ranges appear to be embracing our wish to carry our home’s style beyond the back doors. Because today’s outdoor rooms are not just for soaking up the rays on lazy, summer days, but also spaces in which to turn up the heat when entertaining, new heating and cooking options (beyond the battered barbie!) are available too. And, as these are rooms designed to show us at our best, those old broken picnic chairs won’t cut the mustard! Yes, stylish furniture may cost a little extra, but it is built to last and withstand the outdoor elements for longer.

JB’s

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May your homes be filled with Laughter, Love & Peace for the Christmas season. Best holiday wishes to your & your families. Thank you to all of our customers over the past year. Please note that we are closed from 12pm, Wednesday 23rd December & re-open on Tuesday 5th January 2016. We look forward to seeing you in our Manukau or Pukekohe or branches next year. 4/21 Ronwood Ave, Manukau 09 2620048 153b Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 09 238 2954 Hours: 8.30am-5pm Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday kat4194

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Trowels to the fore

Auckland’s green-fingered residents – as well as gardeners from around the country – will be positively uplifted now that the City of Sails is set to again host an international garden show. It seems Bastion Point, on Auckland’s waterfront overlooking the harbour, will be blooming when the inaugural New Zealand Flower & Garden Show takes place November 23-27 next year. Multi award-winning designer and international judge Kate Hillier will be part of the experienced flower and garden show management team and says it will be huge for Auckland. “New Zealand has a very strong pedigree in garden design and this will give our top talent an opportunity to demonstrate their skill in an event of international standard,” Kate says.“Our objective is to create a show that will attract national and

– new garden show for Auckland

international exhibitors and visitors to Auckland, and to put New Zealand back on the world stage of garden and floral design.” The show aims to reflect changes in international trends, with organic and edible gardens becoming a feature. Organisers expect there will be more than 100 horticultural displays with another 200 exhibitors from the industry. Importantly, international names are already registering their support for the event, with Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winning South African, Leon Kluge, and Singapore Garden Festival winner, Aussie Jim Fogarty, sending enthusiastic messages of support. “I’m sure that many Australian designers will be very excited to come over to see this new show, and I certainly look forward to seeing you there too,” said Fogarty.

Wayne Pihema, chair – Whai Maia Ltd, speaking for Ngati Whatua Orakei says that Iwi is excited to see the land used for the show. “The Ngati Whatua Orakei have a very strong connection with the land. We are committed to the preservation and restoration of the flora and fauna

on our whenua (land) to a state where the mauri, or life force, of the land is thriving,” he says. “It is fitting that Bastion Point should be a meeting place for designers of all nations who share our love of the visual and spiritual properties of plants.”

Win!

Ken Ring’s New Zealand Weather Almanac 2016 Whether the weather will be fit to play ball, if the fish will be biting, or the time right for planting in six months, or even a year, is a little tricky to predict.

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However, forecasting the future of weather patterns up to a year in advance, with sometimes staggering accuracy, can be done, as Ken Ring has shown in the past.

68 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

From rainfall levels to king tides, Ken again provides detailed information about the way the weather is likely to affect us. Particularly useful to anyone keen on gardening, fishing, hiking or skiing, Ken’s new 2016 weather almanac for New Zealand is out now and available online via predictweather.co.nz.

form. One entry per email address/ person; entries close January 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email. To read more about Ken, see EastLife’s Dec 2013 issue at eastlife.co.nz.

To enter the draw to win a copy visit www.eastlife.co.nz. Click on the competition link and complete the

• Ken Ring: Ken Ring’s Weather Almanac 2016 | RRP $43.99 | Predictweather www.eastlife.co.nz

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eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 | Clevedon

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SPEND MONEY TO MAKE MONEY – HOW’S THAT POSSIBLE? JANE WILSHER, from Elite Property Management, talks about investing in renovation for a better return.

Rachael meyeR LICENSED SALESPERSON

P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call. “Thanks for thinking outside the box and making us consider options we may not have on our own. I trusted you throughout the process and always thought you had our best interests at heart.” Theodora – Bucklands Beach

VAL AND COURTNEY STEVEN THE REAL ESTATE LADIES

P: 534 9042 M: 027 293 9093 or 021 118 6477 E: v.steven@barfoot.co.nz Val, and her daughter Courtney work as an effective partnership in the Highland Park branch. Together with the essentials of negotiating, honest communication, marketing and a wealth of experience, their aim is to make the process of buying and selling as straight forward and stress-free as possible. For a family team committed to results, call The Real Estate Ladies.

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

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

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

Ian 027 285 9314, i.boswell@barfoot.co.nz Nicolette 027 702 9157, n.hale@barfoot.co.nz www.specialagents003.co.nz This vibrant team puts the fun back into real estate while also achieving outstanding sales results. Whether developing advertising for your property or taking you to view homes they leave an impression not easily forgotten. Now is your time to take advantage of the fantastic service they provide!

Cnr Pakuranga Rd & Dunrobin Pl, Highland Park. www.barfoot.co.nz

greg roy AREINZ Principal/Owner

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

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

70 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

It’s no secret that throughout 2015 rents have continued to rise across Auckland, a result of increased demand for rental accommodation. While we don’t see an end to this trend soon we also need to look at ways of keeping landlords happy and guaranteeing better returns. One way to maximise your property portfolio’s performance could be adding value by renovating. Banks are advertising great interest rates with many deals well below 5%. By taking advantage of this situation you could renovate your property, add value to it and also increase rental returns. Here are a couple of examples of how our forward thinking owners have benefitted from our advice and done exactly that. • Example 1 – a small, three bedroom home on Ferndale Rd, Mt Wellington was very much in its original state. The tenants living there were fine. They paid their rent and kept the home clean and tidy but when they left we suggested to the owner that it was a good time to tackle a host of jobs and give the place a full makeover. With our trusted team of contractors the renovation took place including a new kitchen, new bathroom, redecoration, new floor coverings and even a new hot water cylinder. The cost was around $28,000 and the result was an increase in rent from $360 per week to $495 per week – an increase of $135 per week. A 5% loan on interest-only basis would cost less than $27 per week. • Example 2 – a stand-alone property with one bedroom plus a study on

Reelick Ave, Pakuranga. The long term tenants were moving on and, as the property was in really poor condition, we advised the owner to do a full renovation. The state it was in meant attracting new, quality tenants would be very difficult if not impossible. For under $14,000 we worked with our team to do a major renovation including new kitchen, bathroom upgrade, full redecoration, new floor coverings and new blinds throughout. The rent was increased from $210 per week to $320 per week, an increase of $110 per week. On an interest-only basis at 5%, a loan of $14,000 would cost under $14 per week. The benefit to the owners of these properties is clear. The extra rent can only be a good thing. The additional benefits of the properties being fully renovated and increased in value should not be ignored. Increasing the value of your property will help you access additional lending if you are aiming to grow your portfolio. A full renovation may not be necessary. A simple paint job, or new carpet, can make a huge difference. Whatever your property needs, hopefully this column has inspired investors to do what is needed to present their rental properties in the best light. By maximising a property’s performance you will improve cash flow and also attract better tenants. If you want to improve your returns but are too busy to take on this work yourself then we would be glad to help. Our aim is always to achieve the best result for clients so, if this is what you are looking for, give us a call.

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

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

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

As we approach Christmas the Auckland market has shown some signs of easing off. It’s been reported that the number of buyers attending open homes has decreased, that the rate of homes at auctions selling under the hammer has dropped, and overall sales numbers are lower than usual for this time of the year. However, there are mixed signals about whether prices are moving down. In fact, the October median price for our Eastern Beaches area showed a rise over September. Figures from REINZ show that Eastern Beaches struck a record high median in August this year at $977,500 dropping slightly to $965,000 in September then in October bouncing back to $975,000, almost the record high. Sales volumes for the past three months are 184 for August, 211 for September and a noticeable drop in October to be down to 157. By comparison October 2014 saw 200 sales with a median of $805,500 so the market for Eastern Beaches has moved up 21% in the past 12 months. Looking at Auckland overall, sales volumes for October, as for the Eastern beaches area, were less than normal for this time of year. They were down 15% compared to September. The drop in the number of sales in Auckland overall for October is most likely a combination of the effect of the new IRD and bank account rules introduced at the start of the month, and a natural softening of demand after a period of sharply rising prices. This is reflected in the median for Auckland with there being a drop in the median price from September’s $771,000 down to $748,250 for October. www.eastlife.co.nz

When you take care of your cedar, it’ll reward you by looking spectacular for many, many years.

Love your cedar home? Protect it from the sun TimberTECH director MARK RALPH provides welcome advice on how to keep exterior cedar looking its best at all times

New Zealand has the harshest UV rays in the world – worse than Africa! So when the adverts come on TV exhorting us to slip, slap, slop, most of us pay attention. Clever us!

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The drop in the number of sales in Auckland overall for October is most likely a combination of the effect of the new IRD and bank account rules introduced at the start of the month, and a natural softening of demand after a period of sharply rising prices.

Nationally, excluding Auckland, a new record national median price of $370,000 was set in October – representing a 1.4% increase over September and an 8.4% increase from October 2014. Sales volumes nationally at 7,838 represented a drop of 4% from September but an increase of nearly 19% on October 2014. As we roll into the Christmas period I have found some nervousness from potential sellers that 2016 could bring with it a big swing downwards in the local and overall Auckland market. However, all the driving forces of supply and demand are still present – low interest rates, a rising population and shortage of new homes being built. So, we will just have to wait and see.

taking care of your own precious skin. All it takes is a regular coating of good quality cedar oil to replace the oil it has lost over time.

Now put yourself in your cedar home’s shoes for a moment – figuratively speaking, of course. It has to endure the same harsh rays all summer long that you cover up for. That’s a big ask. It may sound crazy, but your cedar home gets the equivalent of severe sunburn every summer if it’s not protected with a deep penetrating oil. It’s really no different from the same ageing and roughening our skin gets from over-exposure.

How to spot a sunburnt home Cedar’s “sunburn” symptoms are similar to ours too. Peeling of the top layer followed by sensitivity of the exposed layer below. This exposed layer in cedar is an open door for insects, mould, mildew and lichen. Not only do the sun’s UV rays dry out the surface of your cladding, they also suck out the interior oils that do so much to make cedar a “wonder wood” – insect and parasite repellent and resistant to warping or cracking. The good news is that protecting your cedar home from the sun is as easy as

How can you tell when your cedar is due for a recoat? If it has a tinted oil, you might notice a distinct colour fade. Another good indicator is a loss of ability to ‘bead’ water. In any case, it pays to have an expert assess the state of the timber every two years or so.

Another hot tip for a great looking cedar home Here’s another hot tip for keeping your cedar house looking great. Once a year, between recoats, give it a good clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled (not firm) brush. Dirt is a common cause of discolouration on all timber cladding – and a simple clean can work wonders! When you take care of your cedar, it’ll reward you by looking spectacular for many, many years. For most cedar home owners, this is one of the things they love most – that well-maintained cedar looks so much more elegant than any other cladding. If you have any questions about taking care of your cedar home, call us on 0800 298 298 or email me: mark@timbertech.co.nz

Call us for a free quote! Contact us today!

0800 298 298 | www.timbertech.co.nz

Wishing you all a merry Christmas and prosperous 2016. eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Local agents talk property As 2015 draws to a close, Aucklanders can look back on a year in which a galvanised real estate market saw sale numbers, and prices, soar including in our own Eastern Beaches area. With some agencies now reporting a sight slowing down, EastLife questioned five local Barfoot & Thompson branch managers about the year that’s been and what lies ahead. Here’s how they saw it. Is this eastern area becoming too built up, or are people starting to welcome town houses, apartments and terrace housing?

Grant Paitry, Pakuranga: A question of great debate and differing views! Whether supported or opposed, the forces behind this type of property development are not set to subside. Residents living in areas of freestanding family homes cherish the lifestyle and do not want to give it up. Others wishing to enter the area but do not have the budget are accepting of purchasing an infill home on a smaller site. Both parties are happy in their homes so in essence there is no right or wrong answer. What’s good for the goose doesn’t always suit the gander. What we do know, for sure, is New Zealanders need a diverse range of housing choices. Future population growth will increase the demand for housing. However, the projected long-term decline in the size of households means that housing needs are changing and the demand for apartments with ‘lock up and leave’ ability are becoming sought after. Increased amenities of all types, with close proximity to services, or well serviced via public transport, are highly valued and the sign of an evolving city.

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www.eastlife.co.nz

Which areas of the Eastern Beaches has been the most attractive to buyers in 2015 and why do you think this is? Of the new developments what are the ‘must live’ suburbs?

Suzanne Maclean, highland park: Bucklands Beach, Eastern Beach and Half Moon Bay have had the highest number of property sales in the Eastern Bays area, proving to be the three most popular suburbs for buyers in 2015. During the year ended October 2014, Bucklands Beach, Eastern Beach and Half Moon Bay had 309 sales, with an average sales price of $947,479. This increased to 363 sales (up 17.5%) with an average sales price of $1,079,250 (up 14%) for the same period ended 2015. These areas are popular because of the school zoning, and being close to beaches, amenities and major arterial routes. Beachlands seems to be the new ‘must live’ area for buyers, with the largest growth in sales for new houses for the year. The area has witnessed a renaissance including new infrastructure and new developments already underway. Many buyers have commented that they wish to move there to get away from the bustle of the busier suburbs to simply enjoy the quieter lifestyle that Beachlands coast, bush and golf courses offers.

It’s been said overseas buyers have snapped up Auckland homes as investments only. From your experience, is this the case and how is the market looking for 2016? Are we liable to see a ‘cooling off’, a plateau in sales prices or even a bursting bubble?

Grant Sykes, dannemora: The Barfoot & Thompson auction rooms appear to be attracting more buyers looking to live in New Zealand rather than just invest. The majority of the ‘overseas’ buyers we see, are actually New Zealand residents who are buying homes for their families. A lot of these buyers have been educated here, have a good job and now want to move on with their lives. Some of these buyers may be assisted by family who don’t live here, but that’s no different to many Kiwis who have mum and dad help them buy a first home. With a recent increase in listings and a seasonal listings surge expected in late January, I believe the market is looking very strong for 2016. Buyers certainly have a bit more choice now and the frenzied type of buying of the last year has changed. There are multiple properties available in a variety of price ranges and a more consistent flow of properties coming on to the market. We expect an increase in the number of days a property is on the market but prices and number of sales will remain strong. In terms of bursting bubbles, the measures the Government and Reserve Bank have taken will make any drop a lot softer than in the recent past. They have taken the learning of previous cycles and made the sector sounder; therefore major fluctuations in the market seem unlikely.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Is it still possible to purchase a cost-effective investment property locally or are locals looking out of the area and if so what would be the areas you’d most often recommend?

Linda Fitzpatrick, meadowlands: Properties in the Eastern Beaches area remain of high interest to investors and, for some, the area continues to be their preference. Investors come in a number of different guises – ‘mum and dad’ investors looking to secure a retirement plan; renovators buying, doing up then selling; experienced property investors buying and holding for capital growth or cash flow. An investor’s purchasing decision is dependent on budget and future plans. The increase in local properties prices has encouraged investment in other Auckland suburbs, where money goes a little further. The South Auckland market is a good example of cost-effective investment for a variety of reasons. Rental demand is high in this area and buyers can also secure more house and often more land, which may in turn be developed. The improvement in public transport, development of motorways and easy access to the airport are all big attractors to the area. South Auckland also offers property choice, with options to purchase new builds or acquire property on the traditional quarter acre section. Investors are able to consider options that suit their investment requirements a little easier in suburbs located further from the central city. We’re also seeing investors look far out of Auckland, with the areas of Hamilton and Pokeno being a popular investment choice.

Is it still viable to purchase a lifestyle block in the Whitford to Maraetai areas or is price and/or growing urbanisation making this more difficult? In your experience, how long do lifestyle block purchasers last before selling up? What do buyers want from a lifestyle property in this area? Are they happy with back to basics or do they want mod cons?

Russell Joblin, beachlands: In the past two years a number of subdivisions have become available for the lifestyle buyer and more are expected, giving new home buyers greater opportunities. Whitford lifestyle properties are still selling for a premium over other southern lifestyle areas, with bare blocks from 0.4 ha selling around $800,000, and newer well-specified homes selling for over $2 million. The Whitford area is not for the ‘back to basics’ lifestyler, but for those seeking all mod cons. Given the increase in nearby residential values, the relativity between the lifestyle and residential has not changed significantly, other than where land is being rezoned for residential use. Most lifestyle buyers stay in the area at least while their families grow up. Few are here for a short duration. Many Whitford buyers move within the area and have had a long association with Whitford. While some buyers are looking for enough land to graze a horse or two, now a significant proportion are just looking for a country home with space, privacy, and room for the pool and perhaps a tennis court plus good shedding. It has now become more countryside living than lifestyle. eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Them’s the breaks IN BUSINESS! Why should we learn from our mistakes, whether in life or in business, when surely a better idea would be to learn from the mistakes of others!

This book explains how to make all that happen.”

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Despite success in the business arena, including significant roles with Ernst and Young Consulting and Southern Cross Healthcare, Mike ultimately set out on his own.

During his career, founder of The Breakthrough Co, Dr Mike Ashby, concedes he has made a few errors. However, thanks to his new book – Breakpoints: How to Shift Your Business to the Next Level, the Farm Cove resident believes others can avoid pitfalls all too common on the road to success.

EastLife has FIvE copies of this book up for grabs! To be in to win, complete the form at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close January 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Frustrated by the slow pace of change at corporate level, the doctor of International Relations established a business which would ‘morph into’ The Breakthrough Co., which is focused on helping small businesses grow.

“I wanted to document for others what I’ve learned from running my own business and working with hundreds of business owners over the years,” says Mike.

“Most coaches and speakers are sole traders, and there’s a world of difference between talking about it and doing it,” he says.

“It’s about the moments in a business owner’s career when things change forever. There are four broad things a business owner needs to do: get a life, get clear, get free and get help.

“I’ve worked for big corporates; I’ve been a partner at an international consulting firm, so I know what I’m talking about. As much as anything, my insights come from running my

own business. I understand the challenges of running a business, and I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.” Grounded in both theory and practice, Breakpoints, brings together lessons Mike has learnt during his career. “It’s about the things that business owners struggle with. It’s a must read because there are ideas

in it that will make a significant and permanent difference in how the business owner operates. There will a bunch of lightbulb moments for any open-minded, growth-oriented business owner. These are ideas that work!” • Dr Mike Ashby: Breakpoints – How to Shift Your Business to the Next Level | RRP $30.99 | Wiley

RATINGS SCHEME A STAR! With 600 plus supermarket products now sporting Health Star Ratings, Food Safety Minister Jo Goodhew is positively salivating over the success of the labelling scheme. She says as more than half are supermarket own brand products, it shows strong support from both manufacturers and retailers. “This initiative is one of the ways we are working with the food industry to improve food labelling and make healthy choices easier

for consumers. Our two major supermarket owners, Foodstuffs and Progressives, are beginning to display the ratings on their bulk food bins, and over 500 of their own brand products will be carrying the ratings by the end of the year”. Members of the New Zealand Beverage Council recently agreed to phase in the rating system as they update their labels and Mrs Goodhew says this will impact on more than 95 per cent of all juice and non-alcoholic beverages sold in New Zealand.

“The food industry has an important role to play in the Government’s plan to reduce childhood obesity. As a result of this rating system businesses are looking more carefully at their recipes to see where there is room to reformulate and improve the nutritional content.” The Health Star Rating system is a voluntary labelling system using a star rating scale of 1/2 to 5 stars to help people choose the

healthiest item when comparing similarly packaged foods, such as breakfast cereals. The system is not designed to compare items across different product ranges, for example breakfast cereals and yoghurt. More information on the Health Star Rating system can be found on the Food Smart website; information about the Childhood Obesity Plan can be found at www. health.govt.nz.

“WE WILL PAY OFF OUR MORTGAGE IN FIVE YEARS RATHER THAN 30 THANKS TO ENABLEME” – Kirsten and Mike Mason – as seen on Fair Go KILL YOUR MORTGAGE FAST AND SORT YOUR FUTURE WITH YOUR OWN FINANCIAL PERSONAL TRAINER! enableMe have a patented mortgage repayment system that will help you save thousands in interest costs. Imagine if you could pay off your mortgage in 5 years instead of 30, while still having a life! The sooner you start to plan, the better – it’s not too late – your financial personal trainer will set you on the right track.

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For more information visit www.enableme.co.nz 74 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

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Taxing time on parties and gifts It’s almost that time of year when planning for staff Christmas parties and rewards is in full swing. While the office party is great for morale, companies should take into account tax considerations?

employees can’t choose when and where to enjoy the benefit. However, the rules for entertainment expenses will apply. Inland Revenue’s Entertainment expenses guide (IR268) will help.

It may be possible to claim events such as Christmas functions or giving gifts to employees as business expenses, but it might not be possible to claim all of the costs, which may also be subject to fringe benefit tax (FBT).

If employees are given vouchers for entertainment, meals or gifts and the employee can choose when or where to enjoy the benefit – and you’re not giving the benefit as a necessary part of their work duties – then these are subject to FBT.

Companies may be able to claim 50% of party expenses in their GST and income tax returns if the expenses are related to the business. But there’s also a significant private element.

Check out Business.govt.nz’s new tax and finance section for more on FBT.

Party expenses of which 50% can be claimed include: • Venue hire • Food and drink • Entertainment Generally, one can claim 100% of the cost of gifts, such as food baskets or event tickets, as a business expense. But there may be a requirement to pay FBT on such gifts. If other types of goodies such as

Charity at Christmas accommodation in a holiday home, use of a corporate yacht or lunch at a restaurant are provided, then these come under entertainment expenses and are 50% deductible as long as they’re business expenses. Business entertainment rules are outlined in the Inland Revenue’s Entertainment expenses guide (IR268). If you give your employees some sort of entertainment – such as a voucher

to use at any time – you may need to pay FBT. There are detailed rules about FBT, including for entertainment expenses. There are some thresholds, so companies may not always have to pay FBT if only minimal fringe benefits are provided. Check Inland Revenue’s Fringe Benefit Guide (IR409). If Christmas food and drinks are provided at a local venue, the cost is not subject to FBT – because

Are you thinking about some Christmas charity? You can deduct 100% of the cost of entertainment you give to the general public for charitable purposes. For example, if your company donates food for a Christmas party at a children’s hospital, that expense is 100% deductible. And if you or an employee plan to use a business vehicle for a private trip over the festive period, check to see if you have to pay FBT on this benefit.

be ready for Christmas closedown The Christmas shutdown, is no longer the steadfast tradition it once was but many companies still close their doors for a couple of weeks, some even longer. However, if shutting up shop for the Christmas holidays, business owners need to be sure the company is actually ready to take a break. This checklist provided by Business Government NZ is a good place to start. Tick off tasks as the festive season approaches.

Premises • Check insurances are up to date so they are valid over the holidays. • Test smoke alarms and replace batteries if necessary. • Let the landlord or property www.eastlife.co.nz

manager know when how long you will be shut down.

a thorough clean while the premises are empty.

• Turn off heating, lighting, appliances and computer equipment.

• Order supplies needed in January in time, and ensure delivery isn’t during the closedown.

• Clean out perishable food from the fridge.

Finances, leave and pay

• Give indoor plants an extra good watering (or take them home if you have green thumbs). • Put out the rubbish. • Notify businesses that regularly deliver to you of your closedown dates, eg the water cooler company and the sanitation equipment company. • Put a hold on any newspaper deliveries. • Notify the office cleaner of closure dates, and consider organising

•M ake there are enough funds in the business account to cover automatic payments for salaries and other regular bills. •E nsure all tax requirements (GST, PAYE, student loans and other employer deductions) are in order if they have to be filed during the holiday break. •C alculate holiday pay ahead of time.

• Clarify with staff what their leave breakdown is – what’s compulsory leave and when they’re due back at work.

Clients and suppliers • T ell clients when you’ll be closing and reopening – post this on your website, in out-of-office replies, on your answerphone, and if appropriate on the front door of your business premises. •P ay suppliers’ invoices. •S end out your own invoices.

•G ive employees 14 days’ notice if you have an annual closedown, eg the office or workshop closes over Christmas and no one is to work.

•S hare emergency contact details with staff and clients who might need them. eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

Right ‘Hon’ Key This year, we’ve covered some of our PM’s more memorable moments. Yes, we have been taking the ‘pith’ now and then, but what’s a few pithy (or, some may justifiably claim, pathetic) pot shots and praises between friends? As the year shudders to an end, we include a rundown of some of our favourite political machinations (recent and from throughout 2015), seen, as always, through the eyes of the EastLife team.

toDay Eu, toMorrow thE worlD! Sometimes the most dysfunctional groups can make beautiful music together – just ask Fleetwood Mac!

THE PM’S GREATEST HITS

Along these lines, John Key appears hopeful NZ will soon be on song with the EU, provided European Council President, Donald Tusk, will just say that he wants us, that is.

• flag referendum: dumb move or solid issue to ‘raise’? Either way, it’s always a shrewd move in politics to invent an issue rather than have to solve one...

“I am pleased that we are able to announce a critical first step towards a FTA [Free Trade Agreement] that should provide greater access to European markets, and make it easier for Kiwi and EU companies to do business with one another,” Key said following the launch of negotiations with Brussels recently.

• home is where the investment is: some say Key hasn’t done enough to unlock the residential market to first home buyers; others believe he has. At EastLife we think he’s at least doing a ‘Little’ more than the Labours of others have. • ‘wiz’ kid: all right, John, you’re accessible, we get it, but please stop regaling us with tales of your bathroom adventures... TMI, mate!

“We look forward to working with the EU and to starting formal negotiations as soon as possible.”

• Pulling it off: well done to John for dodging scandal during ‘ponytail gate’. Seriously, though, considering the exploits of a certain Sewel-dwelling English Lord earlier this year, Key was always going to look laughably clean by comparison.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of the TPPA (Transpacific partnership agreement), a somewhat controversial move designed to break down trade barriers closer to home. Key emphasised the importance of the European market to the Government’s plans for improving economic ties worldwide. “The EU is a key trading partner with two-way trade totalling over $19 billion. It is also our second-largest investment source, as well as our largest research and development partner. “[We] share a strong and close bond, and discussions have underlined our mutual desire to further strengthen our relationship.”

• you’re un-bear-able! what’s black and white and red all over?

thiS Much iS truDEau Keeping his friends close (and his enemies... well, Key doesn’t really seem to have any enemies, abroad at least!), the PM recently voiced congratulations to his new Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau. “I look forward to speaking with Mr Trudeau soon to congratulate

76 | eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016

A communist panda. Well done to John for offering audiences (aka voters) the best ‘will they, won’t they’ since Ross and Rachel! • So ‘freaking’ special! China, Canada, Australia, England, the USA... the list goes on. Great to see John’s keen to expand our range of ‘close’ and ‘special relationships’ with more and more countries. After all, everybody should be special, shouldn’t they? • Key for two: While Malcolm Turnbull may prefer Kiwi ‘crims’ are ‘home’ at Christmas, he was full of praise for John recently, referring to him as a role model. And Obama barracked no objection, saying he and our PM were ‘good friends’. • living in Syrian: obviously millions don’t wanna live like refugees, so right ‘Hon’ John for not blocking up the doorway... too much so, anyway. • hills alive with sound of iSil: some say ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq

him personally. I am sure that the close relationship between our two countries will continue under his leadership,” he said. However, the election is not all good news for ‘JK’ considering Mr Trudeau and his Liberal party do not appear quite as besotted as Key with the recent, controversial TPP (Trans Pacific Partnership) trade deal.

and Syria), you say ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant). What’s the difference? Aside from ISIL sounding like the name a popular musical character (Liesl), not a lot. But, either way, it doesn’t make it any easier to solve the problem in old Syria! • Pass the tP(P): flushed with success, Key stood up to ensure our little piggies (and the rest) will still go to market. Perhaps the most important issue for the PM (and team) this year. It wasn’t going to please everyone, but at least it address some s-pacific issues. • final thoughts: John was amongst the first to congratulate the All Blacks on their Rugby World Cup win. While most of us watched from our living rooms, John, no doubt, enjoyed his seat in the stands. However, considering how some fans tackle such ‘adrenalin’ fuelled events, it’s probably better our most sober servant was there to wave the flag... whatever flag that might be.

Perhaps hedging his bets, content to dance to any tune, or simply shoring up relationships, John added: “I would also like to acknowledge [outgoing PM] Stephen Harper whom I had the pleasure of working alongside for many years. He was a strong leader for Canada and I wish him all the best for the future.” www.eastlife.co.nz

Society and Me. Say, Wot! Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and Coach, who has presented in 57 countries. www.speakers.co.nz/ our-speakers/all-speakers/bill-potter www.btob.co.nz/the-business-maverick

Part 2 I open my email In-box. The first message comes from Facebook. It is in the usual impersonal, autoformat. It is short. Simple. It reads... ‘Bill, (Name) wants you to ‘Like’ (same Name)’. Duh! Exactly what has (Name) done, to ‘deserve’ my endorsement or my time? Is ‘lovelessness’ on the rise? The secret of happiness, is to remove the poisonous condition known as...

‘It’s all about Me’. Mostly, because it isn’t! It should only be, ‘somewhat’ about me’. No more. No less. I must decide how much I should devote to ‘Me’, and how much to everybody and everything else, in my society. I owe it that. Liken it to the pre-flight safety briefing, which mentions ‘the appearance of oxygen masks’. Wot? It is suggested that you put your assigned mask on first. Then you are able to help those nearest to you,

Risky business Insurance is a risk product. For the payment of a premium the risk is covered. Some recent developments illustrate aspects of this simple concept.

There, the concept is different: the payment of rent is deemed to include insurance cover by the landlord. The insurer can’t step into their shoes and pursue the tenant.

First, a recent High Court case overturned the long-standing rule that residential tenants are liable if they accidently cause damage to the premises that they rent. This is in contrast to commercial tenants.

As a matter of statutory interpretation of the residential tenancies and property law legislation, the High Court considered that the same result should apply to both commercial and residential tenancies.

especially children. This is a good example of how you should interact with your future world.

good oil team... ‘Some are more indispensable, than others’. Take the lead. Not much good can happen for you, while you’re begging to be ‘Liked’!

Firstly, become competent. Believe in yourself. That will make you confident. Now you can initiate stuff that will take you closer to your dreams. Be different, because... ‘different is usually better, than better’. Be persistent, because persistence often beats talent. Prove that you really are unique! Society needs the capable you. So share the ‘best you’ with your community. Become capable in various activities. If you’re good, everybody wants you. Apparently, ‘nobody is indispensable’. Really? Here’s the

I coach... PATH© : The All-Rounder Course for 3Percenters, on Skype. It is power for serious Go-getters, who want to own their tomorrow, today. PATH© contains world-unique content. We have just one... 3 PATH© Courses for ONE Fee ‘special’, available. The deadline to enrol, is midnight on Friday December 11 2015. This could be a turning point for 3 of you! Have a great 2016. Cheers.

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Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community The decision is being appealed to the Court of Appeal as it involves important matters of principle.

policy covered them generally or whether, as sculptures or ornaments, they had to be specifically itemised to be covered.

Another case simply illustrates the importance of disclosure to the insurer. An insured client lost very valuable porcelain figurines in the Christchurch earthquake but did not itemise these in the proposal form. The figurines were lost and the question was whether the insurance

The High Court held that they did and there was no cover. The lesson is that insurance contracts require good faith disclosure for risk assessment so, if in doubt, disclose, identify, itemise and value to avoid future claim problems.

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

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

parting shot

Driving Auckland Nines

Good sports chew the fat Kiwi sports stars have rallied to help fight obesity. The Government has assembled a star-studded line-up for its public awareness campaign featuring: Black Caps captain, Brendan McCullum, Warriors’ and Kiwis’ scrum half, Shaun Johnson, Silver Fern captain Casey Kopua, All Black, Israel Dagg, and Olympian, Valerie Adams. Or, to put it another way: Georgie Pie (New Zealand Cricket sponsor), Wendy’s (Warriors), Pita Pit (Silver Ferns), CocaCola (All Blacks and Rio Olympics) and McDonald’s (Rio Olympics). Health and Sport and Recreation Minister, Jonathan Coleman, says the campaign is one of 22 initiatives in the Childhood Obesity Plan, designed to encourage people to make healthy lifestyle changes. “Obesity is a serious issue and starting

Kia New Zealand is now an official sponsor of the Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines as well as the official vehicle and automotive partner for the tournament.

with small changes is one we can all get behind,” Dr Coleman prescribes. “There are some easy small changes we can make such as substituting unhealthy snacks with healthy snacks, rewarding kids with activities instead of food treats [McDonald’s, Georgie Pie etc?], and making water [as opposed to Powerade or coke?] the first choice.”

Coming up at Eden Park on Saturday and Sunday, February 6 & 7, 2016, the hugely popular Nines competition is set to attract a sell-out crowd and ticket holders should brace themselves for plenty of on-field action as well as a carnival atmosphere.

If this trend continues, could we soon see motorsport stars speaking out against drunk driving fresh from racing Jack Daniels-emblazoned V8 Supercars around the track?

This epic, nine-a-side, knockout tournament, which hosts all 16 NRL teams, boasts $2.6million in prize money.

Seriously, EastLife would like to extend a bouquet for this initiative – and sport needs to source money somewhere – but maybe the good doctor deserves a brick bat for mixing up the messages here. – J. Rawlinson

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Kia breeds a hybrid Kia’s Niro is an all-new, low emissions Hybrid Utility vehicle (HUv) that marks the development of the company’s first dedicated eco-car platform. Niro will maintain all the practicality and appeal of a compact SUv, while offering greater fuel economy. Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, its attractive, modern styling will help the car stand out in a traditionally conservative sector. The main focus for the engineering team was to deliver class-leading fuel economy in the compact SUv segment.

with a downsized hybrid powertrain, pairing Kia’s 1.6 litre ‘Kappa’ gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine (78kW of power and 147Nm of torque) with a 1.56 kWh lithium polymer battery pack and 32kW electric motor.

‘

Niro will boast a brand new design, with a sporty aerodynamic body, subtly sculptured surfaces, and styling details that enhance the car’s modern new look.

The powertrain’s combined power output and torque will be applied to the road through a highly efficient, six-speed, double-clutch transmission.

targeting a 25 per cent improvement to average corporate fuel efficiency over 2014 levels.

The development of an all new platform and bespoke powertrain for the Niro will contribute to the brand’s ambition to becoming a leader in the low emissions car market by 2020. In the next five years, Kia will expand its current green car line up from the four current models to 11, and is

Niro is due to be unveiled globally next year, with production for overseas markets scheduled to start late 2016. Kia Motors New Zealand is yet to decide if it will offer the Niro as part of its model line up, needing to assess the market closer to the time of its launch.

The Kia Niro will combine a stylish SUv design with greater fuel economy than its rivals, with a target CO2 emissions rating of under 90 g/ km (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle). The car will achieve its low emissions levels and impressive fuel economy

BOOST FOR MAZDA CX-9 Mazda’s all-new CX-9 is the company’s first model to feature its new SKYACTIv-G 2.5T directinjection turbocharged gasoline engine.

the modern family, CX-9 offers a comfortable and well-considered cabin space, together with advanced safety features, and allwheel-drive on some variants.

CX-9, which was unveiled at last month’s Los Angeles Auto Show, is a three-row large crossover SUv.

The new turbocharged 2.5-litre engine was developed to realise dynamic performance with exceptional fuel economy. It boasts powerful acceleration and linear

Designed to meet the needs of

response in the low-to mid-rpm range where CX-9 drivers spend the majority of their time. Traditionally, turbocharged engines have suffered from poor dynamic performance at low revs, including turbo lag and disappointing, realworld fuel economy. SKYACTIv-G 2.5T overcomes these problems with its Dynamic Pressure Turbo, the world’s first turbocharging system that can vary

the degree of exhaust pulsation depending on engine speed, and has a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. This allows the engine to maintain an ideal air-fuel ratio over a wider output range. Full specification and pricing will be announced closer to launch in the third quarter of next year.

Unlike current CX-9 which shares a Ford platform, the all-new model is 100 per cent Mazda. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | december 2015 / January 2016 |

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