Times Digital - 30 May 2024

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‘THE BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE IN THE WORLD’

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Steve Maserow believes his real estate salespeople are the best in the country and he’s got the silverware to back that up. He came away from Barfoot and Thompson’s glitzy blacktie national awards night with the trophy for Branch Manager of the Year 2024, while his Howick branch was named Branch of the Year 2024.

Given the company has about 80 branches nationwide it’s a major honour both for Maserow and his team, and he’s rightfully proud of their success.

“We’re an award-winning branch and for last five to six years we’ve finished in top 10, which is quite an achievement. This year is a personal best as it’s the first time we’ve achieved number-one best branch in Barfoot and Thompson.

“It feels amazing and it’s nice to be awarded, but it’s not where we want to stop. We aren’t getting complacent.”

Maserow says his branch’s mission is to be the “best real estate office in the world”. It’s focused on getting good outcomes for its many vendors, buyers, and salespeople.

“We want to do good stuff and make good things happen for other people,” he says. “I’m just blessed to have such talented and amazing people surrounding me

because whilst I got the accolade, I’m highly indebted to my team of salespeople and property managers. They really are some of the best salespeople in the country.

“A famous person once said, ‘culture eats strategy for breakfast’, and we’re big on our culture here. We’ve got a culture where we’ve learned that learning is earning. We’ve gone around the world

and found the best real estate coaches and trainers and we’ve brought them here and put time into working on our business and our skills and being able to offer that to our vendors, which has given them a great experience.”

Maserow says his branch’s second underlying theme is that all of its work has to make good things happen for other people.

“We’ve come to learn that when we do that good things happen for us, so that’s really the culture we drive, and we’ve got the right mindset. We really care and try to be the client’s trusted advisor. We try to have proper, deep relationships with people.”

What makes Maserow so successful as a branch manager, he says, is having an entrepreneurial mindset.

He doesn’t think of his role as just a “job” and he’s proud to work for Barfoot and Thompson, which he says is New Zealand’s leading real estate agency and an “iconic brand”.

“My overnight success has taken 20 years,” he jokes. “When I took over this branch we were 44th in the rankings. The accolades and awards are fantastic, but we’re playing the long game and we want to be the best.”

He says the skills required to be successful in the role are to always start with really wanting to get to know a person, whether it’s a vendor, buyer, or salesperson.

“What brings them joy, what stresses them, and what do they need, and then see if I can tailor a solution specifically for them.

“When I look at our team I think we’ve got the best real estate salespeople in the country. I also think we’re a group of ordinary people achieving extraordinary results.”

Barfoot and Thompson Howick manager Steve Maserow, left, with the company’s managing director Peter Thompson. Photo supplied

‘WE WANT CLIENTS TO HAVE AN EXPERIENCE!

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Al Moseley took a major risk opening a barbershop in east Auckland during the Covid-19 pandemic but it’s paying off big-time.

The proud local opened the doors of his BarberShopCo in Howick’s Picton Street in early 2022. It’s a spotless, well-lit, warm and welcoming space and boasts a small team of experienced and friendly barbers.

“What we want is for clients to have an experience and when they walk out they’re looking, smelling, and feeling amazing,” Moseley says.

“Generally our cuts are about 25-30 minutes. Some customers want the full service so that might take up to an hour. The other difference is we take our time. Our clients are not rushed or hurried.

“I know time is important for customers and they’ll tell us if they’re in a hurry, but we don’t do cuts in 15

minutes. That’s not us.”

People wanting their hair cut can just walk in or book beforehand using the barbershop’s helpful queuing app.

“They pick Howick as their closest store and it only takes a couple of minutes to sign up,” Moseley says. “They join the queue and say they’re on their way and it gives an estimated time, so if we’re busy people aren’t spending an hour in here waiting. It’s a game-changer for us and people are loving it.”

Moseley’s barbers talk to each customer about what they want done and following the haircut they can move to the wash station for a wash and rinse before being soothed with a eucalyptus-scented hot towel on their face and head.

The business also sells high-quality styling products including from The Bowery in New York City.

“We stock New Zealand-made products with no chemicals and all-natural ingredients for natural

skin,” Moseley says.

“We cater for all ages from three to 99. The community has really come out and supported us, which is really cool. Being a new brand I was a little bit nervous but people seem to enjoy what we’re doing and they keep returning. That’s what it’s all about.

“Finding the right shop was really important to me. First and foremost being on the main street and having it be spacious and modern.”

Men’s cuts cost $40 and children, students and senior citizens are $35. There’s also pricing for specialised cuts such as patterns, Moseley says.

“It’s more about an experience than a quick 10 to 15 minute cut.”

BarberShopCo is at 98 Picton Street, Howick.

Al Moseley

‘WE’VE GOT TO GET THE COUNTRY TURNED AROUND’

National Party leader and Botany MP Christopher Luxon campaigned during last year’s general election on the message of, “Get NZ Back on Track”. Almost six months after becoming Prime Minister he talked to the Times about how he rates his Government’s performance so far and whether he believes he’s delivering as promised.

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Christopher Luxon has had a pretty busy last six months.

He’s moved at pace to address the major challenges he inherited from the previous Labour Government including ballooning debt, rising inflation and a cost of living crisis, gangs running amok and major problems in health, education and law and order.

“I think we’ve gone incredibly fast,” Luxon says. “Our work plan for the next three years is very clear, but obviously we’ve been very focused on making sure we’re rebuilding the economy by lowering inflation and the cost of living.”

He says his second main focus is on is restoring law and order and the third is delivering better health and education.

“What we’ve done is set some targets for 2030 as to where we need to be and that’s focusing with all Government ministers and the public service to deliver against those goals. So the first 100 days, we had 49 actions. Our quarterly plan we’ve got finishing on June 30 has another 36 actions and in that period of time I think we’ve moved

incredibly fast.

“We’re working incredibly hard because we know New Zealand’s in a really tough spot and New Zealanders are doing it really hard but we also know we need a good plan and good management to be able to take the country forward.”

With the coalition Government’s first Budget being delivered on Thursday Luxon says it isn’t possible to correct six years of problems in one year.

“The key thing is we want to be able to get rid of the wasteful spending that’s been going on.

“Make sure we take that money and ensure it’s invested in frontline services in health and education and law and order and disabilities, so there will be more money going into those places. And also giving people tax relief. Low- and middle-income New Zealanders, people who are working incredibly hard and still can’t get ahead.

“The reason is they haven’t had tax relief for 14 years yet inflation’s gone up over 40 per cent in that time. We’ve got a big focus on education, infrastructure, regulations, international connections, science, technology and innovation.

“We got rid of the RMA (Resource Management Act). We’ve introduced the Fast-Track concessions so we can get things built in a much faster period of time.

“We’ve started our work on gang laws and committed to 500 more police officers in the next two years. We’ve got our work on young serious offenders coming out very shortly and Three-Strikes has been brought back.”

His Government has also stopped several large infrastructure projects that he labels wasteful spending.

“We’ve got a very good infrastructure plan which [Pakuranga MP and Transport Minister] Simeon Brown is leading,” Luxon says.

“Fifteen Roads of National Significance, four big public transport projects, and then Roads of Regional Significance as well.

We’re re-orientating our transportation around our roading network to make sure it’s in good shape.”

He also points to changes in education, including banning mobile phones in schools and introducing an hour of reading and writing each day in primary and intermediate schools.

“We have work going on with structured literacy where we train about 8500 teachers to teach kids to read the same way. “We do another 8500 teachers next year and that means by the end of next year we’ll have all of our year 0-6 teachers really confident teaching reading consistently to our kids.

“That’s the key thing we need to get right in education. It’s been really busy. We’re all working very long hours, seven days a week, because we understand we’ve got to get the country turned around.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, far right, says his Government is working incredibly fast to address the country’s challenges. Photo supplied

ICONIC BUILDING RECEIVES AWARD FOR ARCHITECTURE

One of east Auckland’s most iconic but little-known buildings has been recognised for its unique design.

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

The Te Kahui Whaihanga

New Zealand Institute of Architects’ (NZIA) recent 2024 Local Architecture Awards named the Musick Point Memorial Radio Station as one of two winners in its Enduring Architecture category. The building was constructed by the Public Works Department in 1942.

The awards citation for the building describes it as “iconic” and says it was supervised by Government architect John T Mair, but specifically credited to John Blake-Kelly, who later became a Government architect.

“Named after aviation pioneer

Captain Edwin G Musick, the building has served as an aviation and maritime radio communications hub, notably as a key facility during World War II. The building has also been enjoyed by the public for more than 80 years.

“The aviation connection is reflected in plan and siting; the building was not only to be experienced from the ground but also from the sky.

“The design encompasses the formal landscaping to create the impression of a flying boat and its jetstream or landing wake.

“With its central tower, curved two-storey projection and single-storey podium, its strippedback form is an early and

well-preserved example of the Modernist or Functionalist style in Auckland.”

A history website run by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage states the building, which served as Auckland’s new radio receiving station, was opened by Prime Minister Peter Fraser in January, 1942.

“In 1965 the Department of Civil Aviation moved most of its operations to the new Auckland International Airport at Mangere.

“Auckland Radio ZLD continued operating from the Musick Point site until 1993.

“A lengthy controversy over the ownership of the site was resolved

by an agreement between Telecom and the Crown which saw ownership of the land passing to the Crown while Telecom retained a lease on the building.”

Unitec School of Architecture lecturer Cameron Moore, who grew up in east Auckland, says the building’s approach, massing and planning are all traditional, “with the main axis derived from the entry road, and the semi-circular form responds to the incredible views”.

“The central tower is well proportioned to welcome the visitor and the detailing is stripped back as was common with Government buildings of that time.”

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Musick Point Memorial Radio Station Times photo Chris Harrowell

NO JUSTICE FOR VICTIM INJURED IN HIT-AND-RUN

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

At about 3.15am on July 3, 2022, a person sustained serious, “life-changing” injuries in a hit-and-run on an east Auckland road.

Despite an extensive police investigation the person driving the vehicle at the time has not been identified. The crash happened on Chapel Road, near the intersection with Baverstock Road in Flat Bush.

The victim, who was heading south, had pulled his Subaru vehicle over and stopped. He got out of it to retrieve his mobile phone which had fallen under the seat. A passing vehicle then struck him, leaving him badly injured and his vehicle damaged. Both of his legs required multiple surgeries as a result of the impact.

The vehicle that struck the victim slowed down following the collision but then left the area.

About a month after the crash, Counties Manukau East Police said the public’s help was being sought in identifying the vehicle of interest.

“Despite extensive enquiries and analysis of CCTV, police have not yet been able to identify the vehicle involved in this incident.”

Police also published CCTV footage of the incident on Facebook and appealed for anyone with information on the hit-andrun to come forward. The incident was featured on the TV programme Ten 7 Aotearoa in September, 2022.

The  Times reported on the incident in November that year.

A statement from a police spokesperson said Chapel Road was not busy at the time and was well-lit when the injured motorist pulled over, believing it to be a safe position to do so.

“While kneeling to retrieve the item [from inside his car] another vehicle travelling down Chapel Road has struck the victim and his vehicle. The impact folded the victim’s driver side door right back

THERE IS ALWAYS THE CHANCE THAT THE DRIVER INVOLVED HAS HAD ENOUGH TIME TO REFLECT ON THE INCIDENT AND IS READY TO DO THE RIGHT THING BY COMING FORWARD.”

against the bonnet.

“The suspect vehicle has continued down the road.

The victim’s shocked partner starts to run after it heading south on Chapel Road, but unfortunately it disappeared before she can get the registration.”

Police said the woman returned to her injured partner, who was lying on the ground, and rendered first aid to him. She was helped by people from nearby houses. A person phoned emergency services on 111.

The victim was hospitalised for two weeks and had several surgeries to both legs. He was looking at three months in a wheelchair before he could start learning to walk again using crutches, police said. “The physical, financial and psychological effect on the victim and his family is huge.

“It’s clear from CCTV footage there may have been other factors on why the driver didn’t stop, but this shouldn’t deter them from coming forward now and letting the victim and his family know why this happened.”

Police said people may know who drove the offender’s vehicle, or worked on it, or had seen it in the Botany area.

The Times recently asked police for an update on the case.

Counties Manukau East Police area investigations manager, detective senior sergeant Dean Batey, says police conducted extensive enquiries into the crash. The victim suffered extensive injuries in the incident which meant he required medical treatment.

“He is a private individual and we will respect that in terms of the level of detail around the injuries he suffered,” Batey says.

“Ultimately and disappointingly, we couldn’t identify the make, model, or registration of the offending vehicle. It’s meant the case could not progress.

“The incident also occurred very early in the morning, and there were no other vehicles or witnesses nearby at the time.

“Despite the incident being captured on CCTV, the vehicle’s registration details are not visible from footage.”

Batey says police carried out an extensive area canvas at homes and businesses but no additional footage was obtained.

“From reviewing CCTV footage of the incident, it is clear the driver of the offending vehicle

slows down and pulls over.

“Given the impact and their actions immediately afterward, they have then made the choice to drive away from the scene.”

Publicising the incident on the Counties Manukau Police Facebook page and on  Ten 7 Aotearoa  resulted in information being received from the public, Batey says.

“Despite this we had conflicting information on the make and model of the vehicle. What we do know is that it is a sedan with four doors. Given the extensive damage to the victim’s vehicle, the front left of the offending vehicle will have sustained noticeable damage at the time.

“We would always welcome anyone who might have information to help to contact police.

“There is always the chance that the driver involved has had enough time to reflect on the incident and is ready to do the right thing by coming forward.”

People with information can visit www.police.govt.nz/use-105, using My Report, referencing file number 220703/2421, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The Subaru vehicle the victim was driving was badly damaged in the incident.

Photo supplied

ADVOCATES URGE TO CRIMINALISE STALKING AFTER BRUTAL MURDER

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Pressure is building on the Government to pass a law that would make stalking a criminal offense following an east Auckland man’s brutal stabbing murder of a young woman.

Labour Party police spokesperson Ginny Andersen has drafted a Bill that would add stalking to the Crimes Act. She says stalking should be a crime. It can make a victim feel extremely unsafe and insecure, as well as in some cases result in serious assault or even death, she says.

“In the case of Farzana Yaqubi, the Independent Police Conduct Authority found more should have been done to follow lines of enquiry in her case. There’s a chance her death could have been prevented.”

Andersen says stalking would have been committed if a person causes someone to fear violence will be used against them, or causes alarm or distress to the extent it has an adverse impact on their day-to-day activities.

“This could include following, watching, monitoring, tracking or

THIS BILL WILL HELP ENSURE THE SAFETY AND SANITY OF PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY, AND ENSURE POLICE ARE TREATING STALKING JUST LIKE ANY OTHER CRIME.”

Farzana Yaqubi was fatally stabbed by an East Tamaki man who was stalking her.

spying upon a person; contacting, or attempting to contact, publishing material, monitoring, loitering, obstructing, interfering with property; or using a third party – individual or other entity – to harass or intimidate a person.

“The murder of Farzana Yaqubi is a public case that could have been prevented, but there are plenty of other cases that go unreported. This bill will help ensure the safety and sanity of people in our community, and ensure police are treating stalking just like any other crime.”

Andersen’s Bill comes in the wake of the 2022 murder of Yaqubi by East Tamaki man Kanwarpal Singh. The pair had met during a chance encounter, which led to Singh stalking and harassing the 21-year-old law student.

He continuously messaged her via social media and threatened to kidnap her and throw acid in her face. Singh also followed her at an Auckland shopping centre, sent her a video taken outside her home, and had a pizza delivered to her property. She reported him to police on multiple occasions as his

behaviour continued to escalate.

The situation culminated in Singh stabbing Yaqubi to death while she was walking home on December 19, 2022.

She received 12 stab wounds as well as defensive injuries including a partly severed thumb. Four of the stab wounds would have been individually fatal.

He was arrested and charged and eventually sentenced to serve life imprisonment with a minimum term of 17 years.

The Coalition for the Safety of Women and Children has published an open letter to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith on stalking that’s backed by a petition signed by more than 7000 people.

It states New Zealand is seeing a “dramatic increase” in online stalking and harassment.

“This dangerous, harmful behaviour is illegal in Australia, the United States, the UK, and Europe, but not in New Zealand.

“Our current laws are piecemeal and inadequate. They often make it impossible for victims/survivors to be safe. This has to change for the peace of mind of all New Zealanders.”

REPLACEMENT ON THE WAY FOR STOLEN PLAQUE

By CHRIS HARROWELL

A plaque recently stolen from an east Auckland reserve is set to be replaced.

The bronze plaque was fixed to a low brick plinth in Fencible Walk Park in Howick’s Picton Street as part of the commemorations of the suburb’s 175th anniversary.

It was unveiled by Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon and Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown at a community event on November 17, 2022.

Its disappearance was raised by a person who posted a photo of the bare plinth to a Facebook community page on March 12, saying she’d noticed it missing during her walk in the area.

The plaque is believed to have been stolen the previous night.

Its inscription notes the arrival of the Fencible families who sailed from Britain to Auckland in the “hope of creating a secure and prosperous future for themselves and their descendents”.

Former Paper Plus Howick

store owner Katie Treneman, who served as the 175th committee’s treasurer, previously said the damage caused to the plinth during the plaque’s theft was “ugly”.

“We’re devastated. We can’t just leave it looking like that. The committee is disbanded and there’s no money in the coffers to fix this. It’s really disappointing and it was a beautiful plaque.”

Treneman made a public appeal for whoever had the plaque to return it.

“It’s for the community to enjoy and be aware of and it is part of our heritage.

“We envisaged it would be in the park for everyone to enjoy for years to come.

“It’s meant to have tamper-proof screws so whoever’s done it has gone to some effort.

“It’s a nice bronze plaque for the community that’s worth thousands of dollars.”

Howick Police community services supervisor, sergeant Brett Meale, said the plaque may have

„

Photo supplied

EASTERN BUSWAY’S FINAL STAGE

FACING MAJOR FINANCIAL HURDLE

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

The final stage of the Eastern Busway has a large hurdle to overcome with Auckland Council not including funding for it in its recently passed 10-year budget.

Auckland mayor Wayne Brown has publicly expressed disappointment with the coalition Government’s move to axe the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax (RFT).

He’s said the tax was helping to fund projects such as the Eastern Busway.

The busway’s final stage runs from Ti Rakau Drive Bridge in Pakuranga to Botany Town Centre.

It will run down Ti Rakau Drive, move left over a new bridge around the back of the Chinatown complex and onto Burswood Drive.

It then moves along the back of businesses in Torrens Road, continues in a straight line past Bunnings, onto Burswood Drive, and back out into Ti Rakau Drive.

News media quoted Brown as saying the council has to reconsider its capital progamme following the axing of the RFT.

Multiple projects have been subsequently cut from the council’s budget including the busway’s final stage, which is no longer funded.

been stolen to sell for scrap.

“You’d like to think any scrap dealers would adhere to the legislation and be aware it is not scrap metal, with the information that’s on it about the 175th anniversary, and they have to record who’s sold it to them.”

Howick 175th committee member Marin Burgess has been working with Treneman since the plaque was stolen to rectify the situation. The 175 Trust had a mock plaque made up prior to the first one being made and it’s being used as a copy to make the replacement, Burgess says.

When Pakuranga MP and Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced the regional fuel tax was being stopped as of June 30, he said as of September last year about $780 million in revenue had been raised from it, with about $341m remaining unspent.

“I’ve discussed the unspent funds with Auckland mayor Wayne Brown and signalled our intention they are to be spent on projects which are of mutual priority to the Government and Auckland Council.

“These projects include the Eastern Busway, City Rail Link electric trains and stabling, road corridor improvements, and

“It was stored at Howick Historical Village never to see the light of day until 2021.

“No one ever contemplated a theft. Once the theft was discovered I was able to alert most of the ambassadors who worked with us and one of those was able to convince his group to partfund a new plaque.

“We then had the ability to tell another group their contribution would make it all happen.”

The result is a foundry is making a replacement for the stolen plaque and it’s expected to be ready in the coming months.

some growth-related transport infrastructure.

“Legislation removing the RFT will require Auckland Transport to only be able to use the remaining RFT revenue and unspent funds towards delivering these projects.

“The coalition Government is committed to working with Auckland Council to ensure we build the infrastructure Auckland needs, and at the same time unlock the funding and financing tools they need to help fund their share.”

The Times recently asked Auckland Transport (AT) for an update on the work of the final stage of the busway given it’s not being

funded in the council’s 10-year budget.

A spokesperson says: “We are taking the Eastern Busway as far as we can, until we know what the connection is going to look like to the airport (Airport to Botany project).

“The proposal in the RLTP (regional land transport plan) still includes many of the wider benefits, including 4.5km of new busway and 0.5km of bus lanes, providing a rapid bus connection between Pakuranga and Botany.

“AT will continue to investigate funding and options for the remainder of the project.”

Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon, left, and Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown unveiled the plaque in November, 2022. Times file photo

The man who runs the Bake Town Café at the shops opposite Howick Intermediate School gives out free food to pupils.

GENEROUS BAKER GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND

The Times is recognising the many wonderful people in our local east Auckland community who go out of their way to help others with our regular Community Hero award.

This week’s recipient is the amazing man who runs the Bake Town Café at the shops on Botany Road opposite Howick Intermediate School.

Ludene Lefevre sent us the following message about him on May 22:

“I would like to put forward this lovely little bakery and cafe for the Community Hero award. As I was waiting in the car park today, I witnessed this very generous man take out a wide selection of freshly-made sandwiches and rolls for the students passing by just on 3pm today.

“There were dozens of students passing by and choosing what they would like at no cost. I posted this onto the East Auckland Grapevine Facebook page and to my astonishment parents were commenting how this is an ongoing occurrence and how their chil-

dren often enjoy their afterschool snacks from them.

“I am overwhelmed by their incredible act of generosity and love for our community.

“The gentleman in the photo gave his permission for me to take the photo and to post on Facebook, however a lovely lady suggested I forward this to you as they certainly meet the criteria.

“I wish them all the best and I hope they get the acknowledgement they deserve. It was so refreshing to see such a kind selfless act. It’s not something we get to see very often anymore. Thanking you kindly, Ludene Lefevre.”

> If you know someone who’s doing amazing things in our community please email information about them, with a photo, to chrish@times.co.nz.

Sponsored by New World, each Community Hero featured here will receive a $50 New World voucher. To arrange collection of your voucher, please email info@times.co.nz.

HOWICK VILLAGE GEARING UP FOR ARTISTIC EVENTS

„ By KATIE TRENEMAN, Interim Village Manager

It’s been a busy few weeks for the Howick Village Association with a lot happening in and around our beautiful village.

Matariki Flags have been a collaborative effort in conjunction with Arts Out East, artist Chantel Matthews, and students from Owairoa and Mellons Bay Schools. Māori New Year is a time to connect and reflect on our past, remember loved ones, celebrate the present, and plan for the year ahead.

Four bold and beautiful designs have been selected for the flags. They’re inspired by Mythical Creatures transformed into Matariki Kaitiaki/Guardians with the help of local Tamariki – this has been a truly community-driven project.

Keep an eye out for our Howick Tea Towels and Tote Bags now on sale at Poppies, Cinnamon Brown and 101 Home. They are stunning and make lovely gifts.

We recently welcomed as a new Associate Member Chris Kentsley from Life Coaching East Auckland. He joins other Associate Members Flex Fitness, Champs Boxing, Derek Barwood Orthodontist, Howick Enterprises Ltd, Shamrock Cottage and Monterey Cinemas who operate outside our BID zone but are an integral part of our community.

Our Associate Members are listed in the business directory on our website, and promoted through our Chimes newsletters and social media. We are supporting our chairperson Gerald Patterson, who’s cycling from San Francisco to New York to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease NZ, and increase awareness of this destructive disease.

Donations will help MNDNZ fund research, improve care and provide support for people with MND, their families and carers. You can track Gerald’s progress at www.mnd-new-zealand-fundraise.raisely.com/gerald-patterson

Photo supplied

DEMOCRACY OR DYSFUNCTION?

DECISION MADE ON WAR MEMORIAL HALL

The Howick Local Board has taken about three years to decide how to manage the Howick War Memorial Hall.

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

The Auckland Council-owned Howick War Memorial Hall in Picton Street is better known as Howick Information Centre. It was closed along with most council facilities in the first half of 2020 when New Zealand went into its first Covid-19 lockdown.

An expression of interest process was subsequently begun to allow groups interested in managing the facility to make their case.

In late 2021 council staff recommended the local board appoint the Howick Village Association as the preferred applicant to manage it. Council staff had made the recommendation to the board at least three times in recent years and each time it failed to receive sufficient support to pass.

The council has been managing the building as a venue for hire.

The facility was on the local board’s agenda yet again at its monthly business meeting for May.

A report provided to the board states the item is to formalise proposed changes to the building’s operating model.

It says council staff recommended that from July 1 the hall formally move to a venue-for-hire

delivery model with relevant fees and charges, which will generate a modest revenue.

“A permanent shift to venuefor-hire allows the EOI process to be officially closed and interested parties and community to be informed of the future direction for the hall. Staff propose to implement this change via development of the 2024/2025 Howick Local Board work programme and recommend a schedule of fees.”

Recommendations put to the board are that it approve the building operating as an official venue for hire managed through the standard council venue booking systems and for officers to apply hire fees and charges to the building in line with a specified framework.

Before voting on how to manage it, the board heard from people including Howick Ratepayers and Residents Association chairperson Janet Dickson, HVA committee members, community volunteer Margaret Hawkeswood, Howick Community Hub member Peter Bankers, and Barry Dreyer on behalf of Howick RSA.

Following the deputations from the public, board member Katrina Bungard said she wanted to move an amendment changing the wording of the recommendation so the facility would be operated as a venue for hire until further notice. She also wanted to have the council run a new expression of interest process to have interested groups make their case to manage the facility.

Board member David Collings said he would second Bungard’s amendment as long as its wording was changed, which led to the pair conferring for about 30 minutes.

Their board colleagues then had the chance to question Bungard about her amendment.

After much discussion and debate it was voted down with four votes in support and five opposed.

Member Mike Turinsky said he wanted to make an amendment to the original motion so the facility would be operated as a venue for hire but without fees or hire charges being applied to users.

Board members questioned him on the amendment before it was voted down with three votes in favour and six opposed.

During the discussions on the proposed amendments, several board members reminded their colleagues about how long the process had been going for and said the matter needed to be resolved.

The board voted on and passed the original motion and thanked applicants in the expressions of interest process for their involvement to date.

> Disclosure: Howick Local Board deputy chairperson Bo Burns is the owner of the Times

09 215 9930

49 Picton Street

Responsible lending criteria and checks, terms and conditions apply. See mtf.co.nz/terms

Writing a Will isn’t morbid, it doesn’t foreshadow anything, and it’s not tempting fate. It is, however, a prudent, responsible act of future-planning. One that your family will deeply appreciate. For the months of May and June 2024 we’re offering 10% off all Wills for new clients. Come see us, we’re experts at ensuring your Will both represents your wishes, and can withstand legal scrutiny.

James Donovan Solicitors 22 Picton Street, Howick. Tel: 09 53 47169 info@jamesdonovan.co.nz donovanlawyers.com

PINK RIBBON FUNDRAISER

A HUGE SUCCESS

The Good Home Howick held its 10th Pink Ribbon Fundraiser on Sunday, May 26, and were blown away by the generosity of sponsors and guests this year. We raised a whopping $4358 through raffles, auctions and donations.

All this is achieved by donations from our very loyal Howick, Whitford and Clevedon businesses.

Our MC Frith from Howick Village Optometrists made sure the day went smoothly with lots of laughs. Our Fashion Show from Brave & Be, modelled by a few locals was hit and best dressed paraded about like a flock of flamingos! Trading tables by Nanny & Co and Mumma J’s were available for purchases.

NZ Breast Cancer Assoc was represented by Jo Norcott, who shared extremely important knowledge and how to support families when needed. A massive thank you to all involved, without you this event would never happen. – Barry and The Team at The Good Home Howick

Bangers & Mash – Mustard mash potato, caramelized onion, red wine reduction

Chicken Breast – Chicken breast, creamy mash potato, seasonal greens, jus

& Guiness Pot Pie – Served with creamy mash potato, garden peas, pastry top DESSERT Mini Pavlova – Strawberry cream, kiwifruit, meringue, berry coulis Cheesecake – Flavour of the day

EATERY SERVES UP HOTDOG CHALLENGE

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Local hospitality legend Ted Waters has introduced a new item to one of his menus and he believes it’s the longest example of its kind currently available in the country.

The co-owner of The Apothecary Licensed Eatery in Howick is offering brave diners the chance to take on an American hotdog that measures an impressive 60cm. It’ll be a blackboard special available for $30 and is designed to satisfy individuals with an equally large appetite or a family wanting a tasty meal.

“It’s just to be different from the rest and for a bit of fun,” Waters says. “The toughest part has been finding a butchery that would produce it, which is a bit surprising.

“It’s either an eating challenge or a family meal. You can add sauces and sauerkraut and pickles and whatever you want.”

Waters says he’s unsure if

someone could eat the whole hotdog on their own but he’s got a couple of mates who could give it a go. He says if it turns out it isn’t the longest hotdog currently for

sale in New Zealand “then we’ll go longer – we’re competitive”.

And his challenge to anyone who’s tempted to try it but isn’t sure they’re up to it is simple: “Don’t be a Nancy”.

To help gauge the hotdog’s popularity he recently served it up to New Zealand cricket star and Apothecary regular Colin Munro and his children Chloe and Connor.

The hotdog arrived from the kitchen inside an equally long bread roll. It was adorned with tomato sauce, mustard and cheese and accompanied by caramelised onion, sauerkraut and gherkin.

It didn’t take Chloe and Connor long to cut it up and get stuck in and based on their expressions it appears the hotdog is going to be a winner.

Colin Munro’s children Connor and Chloe with Ted Waters and the 60cm hotdog. Times photo Chris Harrowell

WHAT’S ON OUT EAST

NEW HORIZONS SINGLES SOCIAL AND FRIENDSHIP CLUB FOR 50’S UP

Looking for new members. We generate our own fun and entertainment. If you’re looking for company to enjoy outings, dining out, walks, movies, summer BBQ’s etc contact Rachel 021 026 91679 or Mike 021 840 141 or www. auckland-singles-social-club. org.nz.

GARAGE SALE

The June Barn Sale at Trinity Methodist Church, 747 Pakuranga Road will be held on Saturday, June 2, from 8am. Golf clubs available as well as a variety of nursery wares and bedding and a lot of children’s clothes.

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING

Easy dancing with friendly group, first and second Wednesday of each month. St John’s Ambulance Hall, Highland Park. 1.30pm–3.30pm. For more information phone Roz 09 576 8261.

MINDFULNESS

The Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga invites you to attend a session on Mindfulness and Meditation, Friday May 31, 10am to 12pm at Howick Local Board Room, Pakuranga Library Building. Mindfulness – Facilitated by Parvin Kapila. Meditation – Facilitated by Sister Devi. To register; email: settlement.pakuranga@ cab.org.nz or ph 09 576 8331.

LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES

READY TO STRIKE A NOTE

Starting on May 24, get ready to be swept off your feet by a musical extravaganza featuring top performance talent from numerous local schools.

Taking part in the  Fridays@ Twelve concert series are Botany Downs Secondary College, Howick College, Elim Christian College, Pakuranga College, Saint Kentigern College and Santa Maria College.

To be held at the Uxbridge Theatre in Howick, the

much-anticipated  Fridays@ Twelve series of music concerts is a springboard for upcoming talent.

Music lovers will be treated to a blend of classical jazz and diverse musical genres.

The secondary schools lunchtime series promises to transport the audiences to a realm of musical bliss as gifted young performers take the stage to unleash their talent.

As always, the  Friday@ Twelve series is an opportu-

FREE TAXATION ADVICE CLINIC

Our adviser is available for advocacy for all taxation issues or tax-related matters. This is a 15-minute guidance session to inform clients of next steps (is not a consultation). To book phone: Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga 09-576 8331 or call/ text WhatsApp 028 438 2188, or email enquiries.pakuranga@cab. org.nz

FREE COUNSELLING CLINICS

Online (zoom) and face-to-face counselling service to help you deal with life’s challenges including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships, stress,

nity to witness the dedication of both the teachers’ and students ‘hard work they pour into creating extraordinary music.

There will be $5 door sales.

CONCERT SCHEDULE:

Howick College – May 31 Elim Christian College – June 7 Pakuranga College – June 14  St Kentigern College – June 21  Sancta Maria College – July 5

EVENTS UPCOMING

sexuality and more. Sessions are client-led and structured to individual needs. Adults (16+) of all genders, cultures and abilities can book. (No couples counselling available at this time). +65 Counsellor available. To book phone: Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga 09-576 8331 or call/ text WhatsApp 028 438 2188, or email enquiries.pakuranga@cab. org.nz

FREE HEALTH COACH CLINIC

Want to transform your health but don’t know how? Become the best version of you and transform your health, wellness and happiness. A health coach can offer personalised support and guidance, utilising theories of behaviour change to empower the client to set achievable goals, develop strategies for self-determination and self-efficacy, and navigate obstacles. To book phone 09 576 8331 or call/ text WhatsApp 028 438 2188, or email: enquiries.pakuranga@ cab.org.nz

GENEAOLOGISTS

The next meeting of the Howick Branch of the NZSG will be held on Saturday, June 8, at St Andrews Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick, at 1.30pm. David Munn will be speaking on his website “Cherished Memories” and how he can assist people with telling their stories. Door charge $5. Visitors welcome. Further information phone 09 576 4715 or 09 576 5400.

MEET THE GRADUATE MAKING WAVES

„ By HAYLEY CLARK

ITC and Study From Home are special education providers for many reasons.

One of those reasons is because we care about our students so much that we stay in touch long after they graduate. Sometimes we hear from graduates who blow us away with their success.

One example is Annie Shields, who’s working two part-time jobs for Weta Workshop as a tour guide and for AJ Hackett at the Bridge Bungy. We had to get in touch and learn more about her amazing journey so far.

Why did you choose ITC Study From Home?

I chose ITC study from home because I was moving from Hamilton to Auckland as well as working part-time so I needed a lot of

flexibility at that time. I went to Go With Tourism and learned about the opportunities people got through ITC and decided it was the perfect choice for me.

Where do you currently work and what does your job entail?

I currently work casually at Weta Workshop Unleashed in Auckland as a tour guide and I work parttime at AJ Hackett Bridge Bungy Jump.

What are the role’s highlights?

I love speaking to people from other places and getting to talk about our amazing country and contribute to their trip.

Has any of the study content been valuable in your current role?

Study content I learnt at ITC has really helped me, it built my knowledge as well as my confidence.

Destination New Zealand and communications was especially helpful.

What does your current study/ work routine look like?

I work at AJ Hackett three days a week and two other days at Weta but I would be there every day if I could.

Do you have any words of wisdom for others out there wondering if they should Study From Home?

It’s an excellent choice if you need flexibility, I was pleasantly surprised by how much support was offered the whole time. What are your career aspirations

or what are you excited about using these qualifications for in future?

I have applied for the Disney internship program so excited for that. My dream has always been to be a tour guide and I feel very on track for that thanks to ITC Study From Home.

Contact us today to learn about our courses, and how they can kick start your career!

Campus Study – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868 747) or www.itc.co.nz/contact-us/

Annie Shields is a Study From Home graduate working for Weta Workshop and AJ Hackett.

WE’RE LISTENING, WORKING, AND TAKING ACTION

Welcome back to the Times! We’re pleased to see this vital community service continuing as an important source of local news, history and events.

WE’RE RESPONDING TO YOUR FEEDBACK

The Howick Local Board has been busy advocating for the best outcome for local residents in the Auckland Council’s Long-Term Plan.

The draft 10-year plan for the city went out for public consultation in February and March this year with strong local support for better transport and water infrastructure.

Thank you to everyone who submitted online, on paper, in local libraries or at one of the in-person events.

We considered your feedback, along with the briefings we’ve received, as we formalised our own input into regional topics.

We took the opportunity to strongly advocate for the Flat Bush Community Centre and

Library to be built sooner.

We also asked Auckland Council to do everything in its power to ensure appropriate infrastructure is in place before approving housing intensification.

We’re also using the public consultation input to help prioritise our own local work programmes, building on the successes of our previous activities while balancing the limited budget we have available.

We heard clearly that you want us to focus on delivering tangible outcomes – more details to come once these have been finalised in June.

WE’RE PROVIDING FOR OUR COMMUNITIES

Last year we saved Kauri Kids Early Childhood Education from

closure and asked staff to find a new operator.

We recently voted to extend the deadline until the end of September to allow this process to be completed.

Faced with the pending closure of Marina Fitness, we recently voted to extend the lease to allow staff to complete investigations into alternative options.

We’ve also formally moved the Howick War Memorial Hall into a venue for hire, closing out a threeyear process exploring options for community management of the building.

We appreciate it’s taken longer

than we’d all hoped and we’re grateful for all the applicants who have been extremely patient while we worked this through.

This decision delivers the clarity the public have been asking for and allows the community to continue to activate the building through a well understood, fair and transparent process. To reduce the impact on existing users, we’ve kept it free to hire until January 1, 2025.

FIND OUT MORE AND STAY IN TOUCH

Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/howick

Facebook: facebook.com/HowickLB

Monthly eNewsletter: https://bit.ly/42kdAlK or scan QR

Chair of the Howick Local Board Damian Light

By the time you read this, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and our team will have finalised the coalition Government’s first Budget.

Let me tell you a little bit about the challenges we face and how Budget 2024 is a key part of our plan to rebuild the economy, restore law and order and improve our public services.

Kiwis have had it tough recently with the high cost of living, made worse by the poor outcomes they get for the taxes they work hard to pay.

We will deliver tax relief for hardworking people through the Budget, and we’ll do this by adjusting the tax brackets for the first time in 14 years.

In 2011, the median full-time wage and salary worker earned

$48,000 – and paid 15.5 per cent of their income in tax. Today, the median full-time wage and salary worker earns $73,400 – and pays 20.6 per cent of their income in tax.

We think that after 14 years of no change, Kiwis deserve relief. That’s what we’re delivering through Budget 2024.

Over the past few years, Government spending has risen markedly but outcomes have worsened.

So, we have made a series of careful decisions in our first Budget that mean we can get the books back in order and focus spending on where it’s needed most.

From the Prime Minister

Christopher Luxon

We’re redirecting savings from across the public service back into the frontline where that investment can have the greatest benefit to the services Kiwis rely on.

The taxpayer money we spend will be focused on achieving ambitious targets like shorter waits in emergency departments and for surgery, fewer victims of crime, and more kids in school and

Later this year, the coalition Government will introduce and pass legislation to implement roadside drug testing, in order to improve road safety and restore law and order.

Alcohol and drugs have long been the highest contributing factor in fatal road crashes in New Zealand, contributing to 200 fatal crashes in 2022 alone.

This Government won’t sit idly by when more can be done to save lives on our roads.

With the number of alcoholand drug-related road fatalities remaining high, something has to change.

Our legislation will give police the power to randomly screen drivers for drugs at the roadside using oral fluid-testing

MP for Pakuranga Simeon Brown

devices, similar to drink-driving enforcement.

The previous Government tried to introduce roadside drug-testing during their second term, but the legislation was unworkable as the tests needed to be suitable for evidentiary standards instead of screening standards.

This essentially prohibited the

use of oral fluid drug tests, leaving police without a suitable roadside screening device.

Oral fluid tests are a common tool used for drug screening in countries like Australia, and can be used to establish with high accuracy whether a driver is under the influence.

To ensure an even greater degree of accuracy, lab testing will be used in addition to roadside testing so police have the evidence they need to hold the driver accountable.

As part of this change, we will also set police a target of administering 50,000 oral fluid tests a year, to catch as many drug drivers as possible before they do serious harm.

This Government is commit-

achieving at or above where they should be in maths, reading and writing.

New Zealand has so much going for it. We are located in the fastest growing region of the world, we have a stable democracy, a beautiful environment and hardworking people. But we need to strengthen the foundations for future economic success.

Budget 2024 will show the Government to be a good steward of public money.

One that respects taxpayers –the people who get up early in the morning to go to work and earn money for their family.

And one that thinks the right measure of success is not how much money you spend, or how much you say you care, but results that are achieved for New Zealanders.

OUR BUDGET 2024 WILL DELIVER FOR ALL KIWIS GOVERNMENT TO ROLL OUT ROADSIDE DRUG TESTING

ted to saving lives on our roads by targeting the highest contributing factors in fatal road crashes, increasing the level of road maintenance, and delivering safe and new Roads of National Significance.

We expect to introduce the roadside drug-testing legislation within the next couple of months and intend to have it passed and made law by the end of 2024.

NAVIGATING HIGH INTEREST RATES:

STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING YOUR MORTGAGE

Experienced financial advisor STEPHEN ROBERTSON’S regular My Money column offers practical advice and solutions to help people manage their finances.

Many homeowners are grappling with the burden of high interest rates on their mortgages and while it may seem daunting, there are proactive steps you can take to manage this financial challenge effectively.

Strategies for managing high interest rates on your mortgage:

• Moving to interest only for a period can reduce the cost and help manage the family budget. Some banks have reduced the hurdles to approve this and will help make this transition easy. This will add further time to the length and total cost of the loan.

• Refinancing your mortgage can be a powerful tool for combating high interest rates. By refinancing at a lower rate, you can reduce your monthly payments and potentially save thousands over the life of the loan. The new bank will offer a cash incentive to switch. You must weigh the costs associated with refinancing, such as legal costs and fees, and cash contribution repayment against the potential savings to ensure it’s a financially prudent decision.

• Accelerating your mortgage payments by making additional contributions toward the principal can help offset the impact of high interest rates. Even modest extra payments can shave years off your mortgage term and save you a substantial amount. Consider allocating windfalls, such as bonuses or tax refunds, toward paying down your mortgage principal to expedite debt repayment and mitigate the effects of high interest rates.

• Review your budget to identify areas where you can cut expenses and redirect funds toward mortgage payments. Prioritize debt repayment and consider consolidating high-interest debts to lower overall interest costs. Work with a financial advisor on a tailored financial plan encompassing savings goals, investment strategies, and retirement planning.

If your loan is coming up for renewal this year, make a note to get in touch with us about 3-4-months in advance of your term coming to an end. We will undertake a free financial review and provide you with advice about options.

To book your free financial review, email stephen@ mymoney. net.nz with the subject ‘free financial review

Stephen Robertson Financial Adviser FAP FSP 332966

P: 09 377 4433

M: 0275 408 900

E: stephen@mymoney.net.nz

W: www.mymoney.net.nz

PM ENCOURAGES TECH STUDENTS TO AIM HIGH

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was full of praise for an east Auckland education business in his electorate during a visit with its tutors and students.

The MP for Botany took time out from his hectic schedule to help officially open the Skill Samurai coding and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) academy on May 24.

It’s based at the Botany Town Centre and provides classes in coding, programming, 3D printing, robotics, and artificial intelligence from an academic and critical-thinking point of view.

Luxon met with the academy’s coaches and students, learning centre director and franchisee Anand Patil, and Skill Samurai Australia/New Zealand chief executive Jamie Buttigieg.

He was given a tour and shown examples of what the students were being taught about 3D printing and robotics before helping to cut the ribbon to officially open the business.

Luxon thanked Patil and Buttigieg for what they’d built with Skill Samurai in Botany and told the young students they were lucky to have such an opportunity.

“It’s incredible what you and the amazing coaches have done so congratulations on what you’ve achieved. It’s so important

because amongst you guys [the students] we have future doctors, future engineers, we have great computer programmers, software engineers, all sorts of things.

“It’s amazing what you guys are going to go off and do with your big brains and what you’ve learnt here at skill Samurai, so it’s pretty awesome.”

He said he wanted the students to learn a lot about maths and robotics “and get those really good, cool jobs down the road, so that’s what it’s all about”.

“Congratulations to you guys for what you’ve built with the business. It’s so important and it’s awesome to see great young people getting involved and inspiring this new generation as well.

“It’s really exciting and I just wish I’d been able to do this when I was your age. I might have been doing a different job if I’d done that.

“It’s really good because we want you to get well educated and get really good at maths so you can take on engineering jobs and build rockets and do whatever you want to do.

“That’s what it’s all about. I hope you know you’re really lucky to come to a place like this where you can learn special skills.”

Buttigieg and Patil presented Luxon with a plaque in recognition of his “unwavering support of education and initiatives that empower our youth”.

PM Christopher Luxon, left, cuts the ribbon at Skill Samurai with franchisee Anand Patil and Australia/NZ chief executive Jamie Buttigieg.

HRV’S MISSION: TRANSFORMING HOMES OUT EAST

Our mission at HRV East Auckland, which has been under new management since 2018, is dedicated to helping the people of East Auckland improve the well being of their homes.

Since then that passion has grown and we continue to make it our goal to transform cold and damp homes, helping make them warmer, drier and more comfortable to live in. With more than 500,000 homes in NZ using HRV we are the market leaders in total home solutions.

Condensation? Damp home?

Crying windows? Mouldy walls?

HRV East Auckland is a total home solutions company providing home ventilation, individual room or whole home heating/cooling options. This one-two punch helps protect your home by first drying out the dampness in your home and then our bespoke heating and cooling solutions help give you a better quality of life all year round.

No roof cavity? No problem. HRV has a ventilation system to suit your home or minor dwelling.

Currently one in seven children in New Zealand suffer from asthma, and while we don’t claim to hold the cure, our products are endorsed by the Sensitive Choice programme which is dedicated to helping Kiwis breathe pure, clean, fresh air while reducing allergic reactions. Our partnership with Allergy NZ gives you more certainty that our products help reduce the effects of pollen, dust and hay fever triggers in your daily lives at home.

HRV is the winner of Trusted Brand Home Ventilation for 2022, 2023 and 2024.

We are locals, helping locals, and endorsing affiliates such as Pakuranga United Rugby Club, Auckland Cancer Society, Barnardos and I Am Hope Foundation. As part of our ongoing mission we are supporting the next generation to live healthier and longer lives.

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME?

Call us direct on 09 356 7547 or visit us at 739 Chapel Road, Dannemora. Mention you’re looking for the “Perfect’s Deal” to unlock the real deal in Heat Retention and Ventilation with HRV.

READY TO TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL?

JACOB STANSFIELD, digital marketing expert, shares insights on the power of online presence for east Auckland businesses.

It’s no secret that having a strong online presence is a must. Whether you run a café in Howick, a trade service in Botany, or a consultancy in Pakuranga, leveraging your social media channels can quickly and cost-effectively boost your visibility and attract new customers.

Outdated websites, inactive Facebook pages, and very few Google reviews can make a poor first impression.

Don’t let your hard-earned business be dismissed by customers simply because of a low online presence, or worse, don’t lose them to competitors that might be doing a few of the things we’ll outline below.

This is where the power of social media comes in: Imagine a local café using Facebook Ads to promote their new menu, targeting food lovers within a 5km radius. The results will quickly mean wider brand awareness and more foot traffic.

Now imagine a trade business using Instagram Ads to showcase their latest project with good photography, reaching local homeowners who might be looking to do some renovations, and just need a bit of visual inspiration to kick-start the process.

But social media isn’t just about advertising; it’s about building a community. An engaged community can greatly amplify your brand reach.

For instance, posting a video that highlights a client giving your product or service a glowing review. A clip like this that receives significant attention and engagement will turn viewers into fans, and customers into advocates for your brand!

In a special community like east Auckland, where businesses thrive on local support, strong online visibility can make all the difference. By investing resources into social media, you’re not just advertising your business, you’re building lasting relationships with your local network.

Let’s get social!

Michael Chong, HRV East Auckland Franchise owner, with Harvey.

BEAUTY COUNTER

PAMPER, PREP AND PROTECT

TOP THREE FACE MASKS FOR INSTANT GLOW INTO THIS WINTER SEASON

Looking for face masks that deliver an instant glow and keep your skin radiant over time? You’re in the right place. Dive into these top three multitasking face masks that cater to different skin types and concerns. Plus, find out how they benefit your skin and see which one is right for you.

GO-TO THE REPAIR SHOP MASK

Discover Ultimate Skin Hydration

The Repair Shop Mask offers a deep drink of hydration to all skin type, specifically ideal for sensitive, dehydrated skin. Its unique jelly-like consistency, powerful hydration and nourishing properties make it a winner. Sodium Hyaluronate draws water into the skin and maintains balanced hydration levels. Ceramide NS, supporting water retention in your skin. Provitamin B5, acting as a moisture magnetic to soothe and smooth skin. Mecca RRP $55

Your Go-To Detox for Oily Skin

This little gem is renowned in the beauty world for its detoxifying properties and is a perfect match for those with oily complexions or incorporating an exfoliating product into an existing routine. Containing kaolin clay, to draw out excessive oils and reduce puffiness. Camphor to calm and decongest skin. Lastly, a droplet of Honey to supply nourishing and protective antioxidants. Mecca RRP $43- $165

KARUNA HYDRATING + SHEET MASK

Minimalistic

Glow Up

This sheet mask is perfect for anyone wanting an instant pre-special occasion glow. Alos, ideal for anyone with an existing active skincare routine who wants a quick pickme-up. Sheet masks are convenient to give your skin some extra love without the fuss. This mask is pre-soaked in a combination of beneficial ingredients which exfoliate and provide deep hydration. Niacinamide softens skin texture, fine lines and strengthens skin. Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and smoothness. Peptides banishing inflammation and stimulating regeneration. Mecca RRP $15

For full face mask details and application guide, head to our Bonita Article. www.bonitartistry.co.nz/post/pamper-prep-and-protect

EVE LOM RESCUE MASK

YOUR WINTER FASHION FIX THE ART OF LAYERING

In the world of fashion the debate continues, do you chase the latest trends or rely on timeless classics to build your wardrobe? Here TESS LEWIS highlights a couple of styles to inspire your layered looks – and which pieces are worth investing in.

“Layering” is one of those terms in fashion that tends to be over-used but with winter quickly approaching, the art of layering becomes essential for both fashion and function. For maximalists, it may be the layering of different textures, colours, patterns, prints and sizes; for minimalists it may be about the smaller details like the bottom of a skirt peeking out from under a long coat or a turtleneck emerging from the top of a cozy sweater. Embracing an array of textures and weights when styling your winter outfits can transform a basic look into a statement of sophistication while still keeping you snug. Layering spans beyond the visible, it encompasses both the concealed and the intentional. On one end, there’s wearing a thermal base layer that will ever see the light of day or wearing tights under trousers for added warmth. Then there’s deliberate visible layering, a conscious choice that adds depth and interest to your outfits such as layering contrast-

ing lengths or elevating your outfit with the addition of a scarf or hat. Start by building your foundation with lightweight merino knits; a go to choice for their ability retain warmth without adding bulk. Layer them beneath a lightweight top or dress to create a solid base. For versatility and effortless style, look no further than tailored pants and straight-leg jeans, these wardrobe staples provide comfort, timelessness and endless styling options. Then introduce the essential element of any layered look, the middle layer. This adds depth and dimension into your outfit while maintaining the delicate balance between warmth and adaptability. Whether your preference leans towards a woollen vest or a button up cardigan, prioritize medium weight pieces that seamlessly accommodate the shifts in temperature, allowing for easy removal when entering warmer environments or responding to the changing weather conditions. For added warmth and style, consider topping off your look with an

TIMES’ TOP PICKS

Marlow CASHMERE CLASSIC CARDIGAN – 101 Design $399

Cooper CUFF IT DRESS – Belle Boutique $479

Hinza HINZA BAG – 101 Home $75

Me the label HEART DROP PEARLS GOLD – $99

Kathryn Wilson BREE SLINGBACK – Belle Boutique $329

Lee Mathews FLORENTINE COCOON COAT – Muse Boutique $1950

Sills + Co STAFFORD PANT – Belle Boutique $269

Me the label PEARL LINK NECKLACE – $149

Sills + Co AINSLEE BOYFRIEND TEE – Belle Boutique $229

Status Anxiety LET IT BE BELT – 101 Home $79.95

oversized woollen coat or trench, a must have for the winter season.

To make the most of your winter wardrobe, consider investing in key pieces like a classic woollen coat, a selection of knitwear and a few accessories that can be mixed and matched to create a range of stylish outfits effortlessly. Accessorising plays a pivotal role in transitioning looks from day to night, work to weekend. By simply swapping an on-trend shoulder bag for the ever-versatile Hinza tote, you not only convert your look but

ensure practicality; easily accommodating everything from your laptop to muddy soccer boots in style. Consider incorporating tan and taupe hues into your accessories, not only do they complement a variety of colours, but they assist in transitioning your wardrobe between autumn and spring seamlessly.

Experiment with unexpected combinations, play with proportion and let your winter wardrobe reflect your own unique style, after all fashion should be fun.

The iconic GeoCUBE® collection from Coeur De Lion features unmatched styles and colours. Complete your spring outfits with this contemporary jewellery from David Fels Jeweller, handcrafted using cracked rock crystals.

SHOWCASE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC STUNNERS

An eye-catching array of photographic works captured by talented locals is set to go on public display.

The Howick Photographic Society, in conjunction with the Auckland Festival of Photography, is proud to showcase a large selection of images by its award-winning and emerging photographers.

The society has been active in east Auckland since being formed in 1956 and seeks to foster the love and teaching of photography.

It’s been operating for almost 70 years and caters for all types of photographers from absolute beginners to the more experienced.

A range of activities are provided including competitions, workshops, speakers and outings.

It welcomes new members and offers teaching programs to help them along their photographic journey.

Meetings are held in-person and online by Zoom on the first, third and fourth Mondays of each month from February to November in the basement of the Howick Bridge Club, Howick Leisure Centre, 563 Pakuranga Road.

It’s a friendly, social group with the more experienced members keen to help and mentor others.

For more details, check out its website at www.howickphoto

graphicsociety.org.nz, or go along to one of the Monday meetings.

The photographs in the exhibition have been chosen from members including beginners and cover all styles.

It’s on from June 4-22 at Uxbridge Arts and Culture at 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. Opening hours are 8.30am to 4.00pm, Monday, Friday and Saturday, and 8.30am to 9.00pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

All photos are for sale so choose something special for yourself or as a gift for someone special.

Gannet Pair Preening by Margaret Jones

Frozen Elegance by Sharon Duncan

Alpine Wetlands by Doug Mitchell LPSNZ

Sunrise in Wanaka by Shona Kebble FPSNZ

ARTIST AWARDED 2024 IRIS FISHER SCHOLARSHIP

KIM IRELAND HAS BEEN NAMED THE RECIPIENT OF THIS YEAR’S IRIS FISHER SCHOLARSHIP

The prestigious $5000 award is given out annually by the Te Tuhi contemporary art gallery in Pakuranga to support an outstanding postgraduate student in the final year of a visual arts/fine arts course of study.

Te Tuhi says the work of Ireland, who’s based in Nelson in the South Island, is driven by the examination of a fragmented past and the desire to explore the cultural and social mechanisms that form New Zealand’s history.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Media from NMIT, Te Pūkenga, and is completing her Master of Maori Visual Arts at Massey University.

Through her work, she asks, “what are the complexities that every individual faces in a bicultural society? How did our tīpuna (ancestors) survive the dominance of a colonial system and what is my part to play?”

Ireland’s most recent solo exhibitions include  Kei hea a Tiki? (2022) at Refinery ArtSpace, Nelson;  24 (2022) at The Gallery, Nelson; and push/pull (2021) at Ardern, Nelson.

On being awarded the scholarship, she says: “I am very grateful to be awarded the Iris Fisher Scholarship.

“This award will support me

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FIRST QUALITY AT FACTORY PRICES

in continuing my art practice. I would especially like to acknowledge Kura Te Rawiri and the rest of the kaiako (teachers) from the Masters of Māori Visual Arts at Toioho ki Āpiti for their tautoko (support) with my toi mahi (craft).”

Since 2007, Te Tuhi, with the generous support of the Lou and Iris Fisher Charitable Trust, has supported the development of emerging New Zealand artists with this annual award.

The scholarship is named after

Iris Fisher, who was a founding member of the Pakuranga Arts Society and the driving force behind the creation of the Fisher Gallery, which later became Te Tuhi. Her original bequest has fostered contemporary visual arts practice and art education. It’s envisaged the funds will be put toward fees, materials, travel, or a purpose which will enable the recipient to successfully complete their final year of postgraduate study.

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Image supplied Kim Ireland

SPOILT FOR CHOICE WITH ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE

Just 10km as the crow flies: within that area are three remarkable institutions celebrating contemporary art, enlivening history and heritage, and supporting creativity and local community participation.

„ By LEXIE PALMERGAPPER, General Manager, Howick Historical Village

You may be surprised to know that this is all in east Auckland - not the CBD - and all a 25-minute ride on the 72.

Te Tuhi, situated in Pakuranga, Howick Historical Village nestled in Lloyd Elsmore Park, and Uxbridge Arts and Culture centrally located in Howick all provide access to world-class arts, culture, and heritage.

Outside the CBD, these three key cultural stakeholders situate east Auckland as one of the most unique areas in the motu.

Now, we are thrilled to present an arts/cultural/heritage column in the new digital publication of the Times!

We will share stories, thoughts, and feedback on arts and culture. In the middle of each month will be a What’s On section for the next month, highlighting all things creative in the East Auckland area.

Should you wish to share an activity or event, please email it to: EastAucklandArtKete@

gmail.com by 11.59pm on the first day of each month.

Your blurb must be 60 words or less, and must include your organisation’s name, address, and hours of operation.

Something like: XYZ Gallery presents Thinking Through Paint, an exhibition of extraordinary new work by contemporary artist John Smith. The show runs November 2 - December 13. Opening reception is Friday,

BASED ON THE ARTS-POSITIVE FEEDBACK HOWICK LOCAL BOARD RECEIVED LAST YEAR DURING THE “AK HAVE YOUR SAY” CAMPAIGN, WE ARE SO GRATEFUL TO KNOW HOW MUCH OUR COMMUNITY VALUES OUR WORK. WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

November 2, 5-7 pm, with an Artist Talk at 6 pm. Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 am-1 pm. Location: XYZ Gallery, Ti Rakau Drive,

Pakuranga.

Please also include a high-res image, although it may not be chosen for publication.

JOEL NICHOLLS

AN EAST AUCKLAND ARTISTIC GEM AND FRISBEE ENTHUSIAST

Who is Joel Nicholls? He’s the quintessential creative spirit, seamlessly integrating his love for leisure and art. While you might find him tossing a frisbee through the parks of New Zealand for fun, his true passion lies in his art studio. There, he meticulously crafts unique masterpieces that have found their way into homes across the nation.

We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Joel, a renowned artist from east Auckland, for a brief Q&A just before he set off to create his next great work. For those curious to see Joel’s stunning art, his creations are available for viewing and purchase at his Etsy shop, ArtistJoelNicholls.

What inspired you to become an artist Joel?

I was born with an artistic talent. Drawing was one of the only things that would keep me still as a child. I just had to have the maturity to nurture the natural talent as I got older.

What is your artistic style?

Hard to say! I still am not sure how to describe it to people because I like to do so many different things. Whatever it is, hopefully it’s recognisable.

What does your creative process look like, from concept to finished piece?

Most ideas are in my head. Some can sit there for years and I’ll change things in my mind and then one day I’ll bring them to life.

Who’s your biggest influencer or inspiration?

God, The creator, mother nature, whatever you want to call it. No one can blend a colour better than a sunset sky.

Joel’s favourite piece of work to date

What advice would you say to 10-year-old Joel Nicholls now?

I would say “you can do it, don’t wait for someone to validate you or see what you see, show them!”

What’s been the best day of your life so far?

I wish I had a single day that I could say was best! I don’t have

children or anything like that ha ha. But probably selling my first thousand-dollar painting. That was pretty emotional.

What’s on your bucket list?

I want to be able to travel anywhere because of my art. Whether that’s from the sale of it or for exhibitions and work somewhere. That would be a dream that would make a 10-year-old me very happy!

If you could paint anywhere in east Auckland where would it be?

Hard to go past Howick even though I already have heaps of art there.

Where is your favourite place to visit in east Auckland?

Howick again! It’s where I started being an artist and it’s about people. There are lots of good people who have supported me and brought my work. It’s still a village vibe which is cool too, especially with all my murals around town.

While she awaits the release of her second novel, she’s already finished writing a third book, and is halfway through writing a fourth novel.

The local author’s first novel,  The Tui Has Landed, was packed with hilarity, disastrous dates, and terrible pick lines, all cleverly wrapped in a grittier plot.

It was an Insta Live series delivered by author Marian Keyes on ‘How to write a novel’ that helped the aspiring poetwriter discover there were lot of stories in her waiting to be told.

Released in February 2023,  The Tui Has Landed was a finalist in international book competition The Wishing Shelf Awards.

“The competition is open to writers from around the world and is judged by regular readers based in London and Stockholm,” Shelley says.

“I was delighted to learn my debut novel had reached finalist status.”

If the success in the awards is anything to go by, prospects are optimistic for her next novel, described as “hilarious and heartbreaking in turn”.

When a friend described  A Thousand Paper Cups as “a humorous Kiwi novel about family violence,” Shelley was struck by the unique combination she had forged in her latest contemporary Kiwi novel.

She says: “It did give me cause

AUTHOR’S TALE OF FAMILY HARM AND HOMOPHOBIA

An executive coach focusing on leadership development who delivers seminars by day and is a serial writer by night, Jodie Shelley is excited about the launch of her second novel, A Thousand Paper Cups.

to reflect. The book is about a family, and touches on family harm and homophobia.

“While there are some sombre and delicate topics addressed, humour is weaved sensitively into the story.”

A Thousand Paper Cups is the story of the Lewis family.

Three brothers, Will, Liam and Benjamin, are each grappling with unique challenges.

Will finds himself working for an unpleasant CEO which drives him toward a radical career change. Liam is grappling with his desire to be seen and valued by his father.

And Benjamin is struggling with the response from his father to the news he is gay.

Benjamin coming out is the catalyst for discontent.

It resurfaces trauma from their father’s childhood that ultimately causes a rift between his brothers.

Meanwhile, their sister-in-law Emma is a new teacher who, at the insistence of the school principal, finds herself thrown into conducting parent-teacher interviews on a far more frequent basis.

Dealing with the Year Five children is challenging enough, dealing with their parents is an uncomfortable task she is not fond of.

Asked about the origin of the title, Shelley explains  A Thousand Paper Cups is named in honour of Benjamin.

“He has an adorable way of

getting his sayings mixed up. From ‘death by a thousand paper cups’ to ‘the fruit of my groin’, it is great fodder for gentle brotherly ribbing.

“While the novel explores some serious themes, humour bubbles up in the cheeky banter between characters, the various failed parent teacher interviews and in the mangled idioms uttered by dear Benjamin.”

PUZZLE TIME

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8156

ACROSS

1. Manage to get something for the priest to wear (4).

7. She creates a stir in the country (9).

8. Wine you have in the garden (4).

9. Make for the cape (4).

10. See you celebrate on return (4).

11. Old American man (4).

14. Travelling - in a rep company? (2,3,5).

16. Notes the daily earnings? (5,5).

19. Understands it’s returnable (4).

22. Go back for the fish (4).

24. I don’t believe it! A table! (4).

25. Dad, dad, dad! (4).

26. Agree there’s no damage to the car the fool went into (3,6).

27. Sending the beans back does surprise one (4).

DOWN

1. The island, good gracious, has a Chinese name! (5).

2. Over a quarter are artificial (5).

3. About that cover; it’s supposed to be menacing (6).

4. Can’t just sit still while you commit a crime (6).

5. Fill on the way to work (4).

6. Experienced, but not enough, had left (9).

12. What the merchants fell out over? (5-4).

13. Had performed and had been adequate (4).

15. “Dallies,” or is it “dollies”? (4).

17. Gold in bulk is soft (6).

18. Observing the inn had got renovated (6).

20. For once, the performance is flawless (5).

21. “Mark is the name,” I interject (5).

23. Clothes in a box (4).

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8156

ACROSS

1. Swelling (4)

7. Building (9)

8. Language (4)

9. Adore (4)

10. Decrease (4)

11. Assist (4)

14. Dismal (10)

16. Banter (10)

19. Fur (4)

22. Branch (4)

24. Want (4)

25. Facts (4)

26. Harmful (9)

27. Yield (4)

DOWN

1. Redden (5)

2. Replica (5)

3. Powerful (6)

4. Excellent (6)

5. Dish (4)

6. Ape (9)

12. Advantageous (9)

13. Additional (4)

15. Article (4)

17. Boost (6)

18. Accumulate (6)

20. Angry (5)

21. Card (5)

23. Colour (4)

BLUES’ STREAK ENDS AS CRUSADERS TURN A CORNER

The Blues bumbled a golden opportunity in Christchurch on Saturday to keep 14-time Super Rugby champion Crusaders out of the playoffs after losing 29-27.

Despite the Crusaders enduring their worst season since the concept started in 1996, the plucky Southerners were fighting for their lives in front of a bewildered public not used to losing week after week.

Under-pressure Crusaders coach Rob Penney finally experienced being on the right end of a tight finish. The former number-8 endured a tumultuous lead-up week when he was triggered by a reporter’s line of

with JIM BIRCHALL  SPORTS THOUGHTS

questioning over his future with the club.

The encounter, more awkward than bumping into your ex in the street, could have spiralled into a PR disaster and led to Penney circling the job ads had they again come second.

It was a game they simply had

to win, and now sitting on 19 points, and despite their 3-10 record, if they can beat Moana Pasifika next week as expected, they could still sneak into the semi-finals should the Fijian Drua fail to topple the Rebels in Lautoka.

For the Blues, the decision to rest Saint Kentigern College old boy Dalton Papalii, along with the in-form Caleb Clarke under the guise of “load management” was criticised in some quarters.

Those who believe in playing your best team against the best may have a point given Saturday’s result. However, with the finals two weeks away the exclusions were probably justified,

but selection cohesion needs to be implemented at the business end starting with round 15s challenge from the Chiefs.

The close loss would have stung and done nothing to erase the memories of the 52-15 massacre in last year’s semi-final at the hands of the perennial foes.

But in an interesting coda, the two-point deficit earned them a bonus point which nudged them ahead of the Hurricanes to leave the Blues atop the table.

In quarterfinal rugby, the top finisher plays the eighth. Should results go the Crusaders’ way, they could well be playing the Blues again at fortress Eden Park. Now that’s a scary thought.

PREMIERS BOUNCE BACK IN WIN OVER EDEN

„ By GRANT HENSON

Coming off their first loss of the season and travelling away against Eden, the Pakuranga United Rugby Club Premiers were expecting a tough encounter last weekend. They started well after some welcomed physicality from Pasqualle Dunne but an error let Eden off the hook early and a big clearing kick by the home side showed ‘Ranga what was to come if they didn’t control the football.

Eden kicked a penalty to make it 3–0 before ‘Ranga came back

hard. Constant pressure and large phases with good ball control and great ruck work saw an amazing try to George Sims. A missed conversion and the score was 5–3 Pakuranga. Eden converted a penalty for offside play to make it 6–5. Two minutes later Pakuranga were awarded a scrum penalty in a kickable position.

Michiale van Wyk converted to make the score 8–6 at halftime.

Another attack from the backs had Ezekiel Wye pop up on off his left wing to receive an inside pass to score followed by a van Wyk conversion to make it 15–6. Eden

kicked the ball to five metres out and the ensuing lineout had them over for a try, which was converted to make it 15–13 to Pakuranga.

Eden then infringed 40 metres out and directly in front. Van Wyk stepped up to have a shot but the ball drifted. Eden converted a penalty to make it 16–15 but Pakuranga didn’t panic.

The insertion of Gafatasi Su’s at hooker for Lotu Finau all game was timely. Combined with loosehead Oscar Cowley-Andreas and Jerry Samania the ‘Ranga scrum became lethal.

Phases built from a lineout in

Eden territory and Sean Carter crashed over for what some saw as a controversial try. Sims stepped up to convert it to make it 22–16. Pakuranga finished the game with a chance to go for a maul and a bonus point or take a shot at goal. Sione Takai rightly chose the latter option. The final score was 22–16 to Pakuranga. Senior rugby takes a break this weekend to celebrate King’s Birthday. Everyone’s welcome along on June 8 to support the boys versus Waitakere where they hope to secure their position in the top two of the competition.

SOLO SMALL BOAT FISHING ADVENTURES

PIERRE TROLLIP knows his way around a fishing rod and line. He’s keen to share his knowledge with Times readers in his new fortnightly column.

As an enthusiast rather than an expert, I find myself amidst the lively discussions at boat shows and tackle shops, absorbing tips on lures, rods, methods, and more.

Despite feeling somewhat out of my depth, my modest budget operation has yielded thousands of fish over the past few years.

When I retired I pledged to venture out every week, summer or winter. While I won’t dispense advice on how to fish – as there are countless more experienced resources – I’ll share my journey armed with budget rods, reels, and tackle.

My go-to tackle includes a twohook ledger rig with TOP CATCH Pilchard dead baits, stray line rigs, and a trawling lure. I also carry various gimmicks, though some remain untouched despite their “deadly” promises.

In terms of fishing locations, I reminisce about the trenches south of Rocky Bay, where I initially discovered the thrill of fishing during my sailing days.

Now, it remains a go-to spot, guaranteeing snapper catches alongside encounters with small hammerheads and other sharks. Sergeant’s Channel and around

The Noisies are also favourites, consistently delivering good snapper hauls over the years.

Where are all the big snapper? As most now know, reasonable size snapper have been extremely hard to find in and around the Gulf this summer.

I’m no scientist, but suspect the warmer water and increased number of fishos out there may have contributed?

Recently, I parked the Haines Hunter SF545 near three different charter boats. None of their punters were shouting “Fish onnnn” with a bent rod. So I don’t feel entirely useless at this fishing lark.

However, we have had fresh snapper for dinner more than a few times this summer, but it’s been a while since I caught my quota. Then again, I’m comfortable not taking the maximum catch every time. The Admiral and I are quite happy with two 36-45cm snapper pannies. Fresh fish for dinner once a week, and leftovers for a few lunches is just perfect.

The small snapper have been abundant though. And healthy. I think the “milky, soft, mushy” fillets are a thing of the past.

This winter will see these small healthy snapper a bit more grown up. Yay, at $54.99 per kg at the supermarket, it only takes a few reasonable sized pannies to cover the fuel bill. Despite the lack of sizeable pannies, it’s been great to be afloat.

Our Gulf is simply stunning, even sending dolphins to check me out. And the various small islands are out of this world.

To share the excitement of my angling escapades, I’ve ventured into the world of YouTube. From cringe-worthy beginnings, my channel has grown to over 1000 subscribers and 126,000 views. Everything discussed above comes to life in my videos, offering a visual peek into my fishing endeavours.

Search for “OutSmart - The Fishing Pensioner”. Like, share,

and subscribe to join me on this thrilling fishing journey.

The Haines Hunter SF545 I’m now using is part of a 25 boat fleet available via a subscription from SKIPPERI. These boats are available fully serviced and in the marina – on a walk-on berth. The monthly fee is dirt cheap. Perfect for my style of budget fishing.

Check out any of my recent videos for details, and a discount if you subscribe via my YouTube channel. As Ned Stark said: “Winter is coming.” There are signs the snapper are coming back. Although its still hard work to catch a feed.

I’ll be out there later this, and every, week. If you see me on the water, cruise by and shout “Fish onnn!” Keep an eye out for the next episode on YouTube. I’d love to bring you along.

THE MOON, THE SUN AND

THURSDAY 30 MAY

Sun: Rise 7.22am Set 5.12pm Moon: Rise 11.48pm Set 12.46am High Tide: 12.15pm

FRIDAY 31 MAY Sun: Rise 7.23am Set 5.11pm Moon: Set 1.15pm High Tide: 12.50am 1.11pm

SATURDAY 1 JUNE Sun: Rise 7.23am Set 5.11pm Moon: Rise 12.58am Set 1.42pm

2.44am 3.13pm MONDAY 3 JUNE

Rise 7.25am Set 5.10pm

Rise 3.19am Set 2.36pm High Tide: 3.42am 4.16pm TUESDAY 4 JUNE

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

Drumm Nevatt & Associates 09 5344382

Helpful Hands, Ph Sheryl 0212982786

AERIALS

Horizon Aerials, Kais Toma 09 534 5888

Jack Khidhird Dawood – TV Aerials 09 532 8723

ALTERATIONS & REPAIRS

ASP Fencing, Julie 021 0369767

Sewing Machine Repairs &

Sales Howick 0275220223

HANDYMAN 0274 945447

Carpet Laying & Repairs, Terry 021 927921

SOS Appliance Repairs 021 369881

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN & BUILDING

BuiltArt Ltd, Ph Darren Elmes 0211443479

AUTOMOTIVE

Thompson Automotive Ltd 027 2887831

Auto Super Shoppe Pakuranga 09 273 7310

BANKING – MORTGAGES – INSURANCE

Loan Market – Geoff Peterson 029 637 8344

Kingbird Mortgage Broker and Finance 021596340

My Money, Ph Stephen 027 5408900

BBQ & OUTDOORS

Briquette, Ph Simon 0272 329 266

BLINDS/AWNINGS

NZ Blinds and Awnings, Ph Chanelle 0211038737

BUILDERS & TRADES

Made to Last, Ph Aurelian 09 21722174

ASP Fencing, Julie 021 0369767

Concrete Sealers, Ph Daryn 021 509115

Tailored Building Solutions 021 311999

Tradie Socials 021 1977600

Absolute Fencing, Ph Dean 021 2788087

Magnet Investments Ltd, Kerry Chalk 021 148 1076

Brick and Block, Ph Roland 021 533866

All Building Handyman Services 021 2750255

Dream Doors 09 5336956

HANDYMAN 0274 945447

AJ & SJ Contractor 09 5356227

Keith Hunter Builders 021 939253

BUSINESS SERVICES

WorkStore 09 2737440

David Kerr Photography 0274 750725

The Marketing Baker 021 1591215

Kaleidoprint, Ph Clint 09 3204395

Helpful Hands, Ph Sheryl 0212982786

Fundraise Factory – Fundraise Smarter, Not Harder! 0800 784785

Promo Factory – Branded

Uniforms & Merchandise 0800 784785

CAFES, BARS & RESTAURANTS

Daikoku 09 2738222

Botany Commons 09 2712001

Lone Star 09 2712456

Nando’s www.nandos.co.nz

Waterdrop Teahouse 09 2744880

Vin Alto Restaurant and Functions

Venue 021 2897776

Urban in East 021 1783381

The Stables Whitford 09 5308866

The Corner Kitchen & Bar 027 3687787

Sunkist Bar and Kitchen 027 2086942

Posto Howick 09 2133675

Porterhouse Grill 09 5763030

Pine Harbour Eatery 09 5366206

Pepperjacks Kitchen & Bar 09 5364659

Olea Café & Eatery 09 2173927

Marina Cantina 09 5352276

John Hill Estate Vineyard & Restaurant 09 2924929

Hawthorn Dene Historic Country Café 09 2739117

Grangers Taphouse & Kitchen 09 5330950

Gorkha Eastern Beach 09 5331020

Golden Olive Restaurant & Pizzeria 09 5760057

Foreshore Indian Restaurant & Bar Maraetai 09 5365023

Food Culture Café 09 6003480

Fisher House 09 2711066

Corner 38 09 6501577

Beach Café Maraetai 09 5364522

Bayleaf and Beyond 09 2738500

Applejack’s Bar & Eatery 09 5373334

Ambrosia Bar and Restaurant 09 5364151

9 Bowls Eatery 09 2713380

Goode Brothers 09 2724516

Indian Kitchen Howick 09 5375116

The Corner Bar 09 5340592

Thai Passion 09 5331900

The Chefs Indian 09 6002270

Bucks Bistro 09 2158435

Zabr’one 021 331123

Minos 09 5355282

Rombus 09 5353284

Basalt 09 5330081

CELEBRANTS & MC’s

Katherine Mitchell 027 4260323

CHILDCARE

Learning Ladder 09 5343567

CLEANING & HOUSE EXTERIOR Brown’s Waterblasting and Softwashing 027 2326274

The Window Bros 022 3752564

The Prospect 09 5343199

GARDENING, LANDSCAPING & MOWING

Eco Farmfet 027 5680661

The Gardening Guys 021 1845671

DS Trees Ltd 021 537171

Greenman 021 570409

BRANCH MANAGER 021 2799118

Inkster Landscapes 09 5347361

Rapid Property Group 0800 789248

Grasshopper Lawnmowing 021 766611

Terry’s Landscapes 09 5359155

HEATING/COOLING

Briquette, Ph Simon 0272 329 266

Celsius Heatpumps 09 5341244

HOME & DÉCOR

David Kerr Photography 0274 750725

HOUSE MAINTENANCE & POOLS

Pukka Pools – Swimming Pools

Maintenance 021 0304784

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

James Lee 021 682262

Garry Nicholls 021 371370

Vinson Yu 020 41978496

Nikola Worral-Bader 021 067 5980

Gary Stone 027 4786639

Peter Sheerin 021 908 633

Jenny Rowsell 021 721 123

Sue Rossiter 027 451 8880

Kevin Richards 027 341 9959

Fazilat Rashid 021 108 7176

Toni Osborne 027 533 9383

Johnson O 021 166 8049

Sue Mooy 021 263 7920

Brij Mathur 027 493 1211

Alan Martin 021 944 681

Desai Link 021 717 739

Christopher Kentsley 021 786 923

Benifer Irani 021 037 7262

Ausaga Imoa 022 426 5561

Penelope Henning 021 026 09678

Gloria Gardner 022 352 5144

Jannette Brown 021 075 7687

Kevin Berry 021 666 473

KITCHENS

Dream Doors 09 5336956

MARKETING SERVICES

The Marketing Baker 021 1591215

The Prospect 09 5343199

Tradie Socials 021 1977600

Promo Factory – Branded Uniforms & Merchandise 0800 784785

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

Kenny’s Painting Crew 021 897 445

Muzza Decorating/Maintenance 027 677 0294

Andrew Bradley Paperhanging 021 460 0048

Seab Ltd 027 622 4490

A1 Chinese Painters 021 1353388

PHOTOGRAPHY

David Kerr Photography 0274 750725

PHYSIO & MASSAGE

Massage Heaven & Hell 021 2745626

PLASTERERS

Thompson Plasterers 021 521 403 PLUMBERS

Allen Harriman, Ph Allan 027 546 05553

L.A Plumbing 0211694957

Tradie Socials 021 1977600

John Brooke Plumbing 027 492 0772

Hill Plumbing, Ph Brett 09 5343562

Bradshaw Plumbing 09 527 3053

On-Tap Plumbing Services Ltd 09 535 1111

AllGo Plumbing Ltd 09 534 5286

PRINT & PROMOTIONAL

Kaleidoprint, Ph Clint 09 3204395

Fundraise Factory – Fundraise Smarter, Not Harder! 0800 784785

Promo Factory – Branded

Uniforms & Merchandise 0800 784785

RETAIL

Dr Toot 09 533 3330

ROOFING

Rainaway – Spouting Services 0800 505052

Total Roofing 0800 805 580

Total Home Works Ltd 021 0798 166

Custom Fascia and Spouting 027 539 9851

SALES, MARKETS, GARAGE SALES

Classy Crafts, Ph Cathy Hawley 021 254 3174 SCHOOLS

Mrs Priestley ICT, Ph Jordan Priestley 0211298689

SHOPPING CENTERS

Howick Village Association 021 224 4225

Pakuranga Plaza 09 978 9100

Ormiston Town Centre 09 553 7075

Botany Town Centre 09 272 3888

SPORTS CLUBS

Howick Badminton Club 021 2097613

Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre 09 5347571

Pakuranga Golf Club 09 5343818

Howick Tennis Club 09 5349152

Howick Hornets League 021 02465908

Howick Bowling Club 09 5345331

Fencibles United AFC secretary@fencibles.org.nz

Bucklands Beach Tennis Club 09 5354897

Pakuranga Rugby Club 09 5767928 Cockle Bay

sbennettk63@gmail.com

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

QUICK NO. 8156

Across - 1, Bump. 7, Structure. 8, Urdu. 9, Love. 10, Wane. 11, Help. 14, Lugubrious. 16, Persiflage. 19, Mink. 22, Limb. 24, Lack. 25, Data. 26, Injurious. 27, Cede.

Down - 1, Blush. 2, Model. 3, Strong. 4, Superb. 5, Stew. 6, Orangutan. 12, Expedient. 13, Plus. 15, Item. 17, Fillip. 18, Accrue. 20, Irate. 21, Knave. 23, Blue.

CRYPTIC NO. 8156

Across - 1, Cope. 7, Ch-rist-ina. 8, Rose. 9, Head. 10, Peek (rev.). 11, US-Ed. 14, On the stage. 16, Paper money. 19, Sees (rev.). 22, Lin-G (rev.). 24, Rot-a. 25,

Pa-pa. 26, No-d ass-ent. 27, Stun (rev.). Down - 1, Cor-Fu. 2, Past-E. 3, Th-re-at. 4, Fiddle. 5, St-op. 6, Under-gone. 12, Scrap-iron. 13, Done. 15, Toys. 17, M-or-ass. 18, Noting (anag.). 20, Ex-act. 21, Sta-I-n. 23, Gear (-box).

NO DEPOSIT FROM JUST $193 PER WEEK*

The Mitsubishi Triton GSR auto, diesel double cab is ready to work and with savings of OVER $10,000 you will want to act fast to secure your new Ute. Limited units available and once they are gone there are no more, so be quick to enquire! Features:

• 2.4L MIVEC Intercooled Turbo Diesel Engine

• GSR comes with the Black-out as pictured

• 18 Inch Black Alloy Wheels

• Super Select 4WD System with Off-Road Mode & Hill Decent Control

• 7 Inch Touch Screen Smartphone Link Display Audio (SDA) System

• Dual-Zone Climate Control

• Forward Collision Mitigation & Lane Departure Warning

• 6-Speed Automatic with Sports Mode

• LED Headlights & Daytime Running Lights with Front Fog Lamps

• Keyless Operation System with One-Touch Push-Button Start

• Front and Rear Parking Sensors

• Braked Towing Capacity 3,500kg

• 10 year/160, 000km Engine and Powertrain Warranty

• 5 year/130, 000km Full New Car Warranty

• 5 year Roadside Assistance JUST $38,990 + GST + ORC* For just