Times February 28 2025

Sallies’ shops are staying

„ By PJ TAYLOR

Salvation Army charity shops associated with its East City Corps are not closing and there’s no decision yet on the future use of its property in Howick.

The Salvation Army (Te Ope Whakaora) has explained more about its surprise withdrawal of East City Corps from operations and social and worship services in Howick after 38 years, after the Times last week reported on the impending shutdown.

In a statement to the Times, reported on February 20, the Salvation Army’s chief secretary Gerry Walker said from its Wellington headquarters: “We can confirm that we are withdrawing from the East City Corps on Friday, March 14.

“This is due to our work at that location becoming unsustainable. It’s important to note the building is not being demolished,” Walker said.

Last week’s Times story generated high readership interest and an outpouring of sadness on social media.

There were also questions raised about the

future of the Salvation Army property at 37-45 Wellington Street, Howick; of the charity shops in Rices Mall at Howick Village and Ti Rakau Drive; and of social services provided by East City Corps.

The Times had already sent follow-up questions to the Salvation Army and spoke with its lead Auckland area officer David Daly over the past week.

He confirms the Salvation Army owns the land and building in Wellington Street. When asked will the building be closed completely, or will the Sallies look to lease it, Daly said: “This decision has not yet been finalised.”

He said the two charity shops will continue trading and accepting donations

and contributions from the community. “There is no impact to the stores.”

Three part-time employees are impacted by the East City Corps closure and Daly confirms the Salvation Army is working with the staff members on the employment matters.

“We found the centre was unsustainable and needed to rationalise our delivery of [social and fellowship] services.

“Services that have been provided from the Wellington Street site are no longer sustainable, so those will conclude,” Daly said.

A notice in the windows says the Salvation Army Howick foodbank finishes serving the east Auckland community on Friday, February 28.

Sunday church worship services finished in early December, with the congregation down to less than 20 people.

“Attendance had diminished to a point where it is unsustainable to keep these functioning,” Daly said.

It’s been a very hard decision to withdraw East City Corps from operations and providing help to people in east Auckland, Daly said.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the support, mahi [work] and aroha [love] over the years our services have been operating in Howick.

“We have been in Auckland for over 141 years and will continue to respond to human need as best as we are able with the resources made available to us. Our support may look different within Howick at this time. However, our wider services are still available to the community.”

Daly further explained that the Salvation Army has also been impacted nationally by a “drop-off” of food contributions from “corporates”, and less donations being received in the Sallies’ annual Red Shield appeal since the Covid era.

The Salvation Army has had a strong presence in the Howick community for 38 years. Times photo PJ Taylor

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Community Comments

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POLICE ALERT FOR ANY MORE PRIDE EVENT

DISTURBANCES

(Times, February 20):

James Bremner

Stay away from the kids. What is hard to understand about that?

Jemma Allen

There is a big difference between accepting and enjoying the diversity in our communities (which is what Pride is about) and protesting against people’s rights to safety and equality in the law (which you call anti-gay). Being neutral isn’t possible when it is about human rights and dignity/safety.

Erin Cook

Destiny Church can stay away! We don’t need you protesting in an area where Pride is welcome… it’s you that’s not welcome Destiny Church!

PROTEST AT CHILDREN’S PRIDE MONTH EVENT CONDEMNED

(Times, February 17):

Kim Paterson Destiny Church needs to be reined in. We live in a country who teaches acceptance (obviously the part of the Bible they’ve missed). What they did was completely unacceptable. If they want to

protest, do it in their own space without shaming individuals!

Donna Leckie

They have a right to protest – definitely. Stand outside, wave signs, sing songs. All good. Forcefully enter a community venue and intimidate staff and visitors is not okay.

Pamela Woolley

It’s a disgrace for a church to behave like hooligans … no respect, they should be reported and take responsibility.

Carl Barbour

Why do drag queens need to read to children? If they want to help the community then why not read in a retirement village?

PUTTING THE CARE IN AGED CARE

Dazzling display of autos

„ By PJ TAYLOR

It’s one of the mustgo-to extravaganzas on the east Auckland events’ calendar and this weekend’s Brit and Euro Classic Car Show promises to be as large and interesting as past editions.

The free-entry show is staged this Sunday, March 2, at Lloyd Elsmore Park, with cars driving in from daybreak.

Organisers say the variety of motor vehicles aged from more than a century old to modern-day hi-tech autos will be proudly exhibiting in the great outdoors, along with high participation from the various classic car clubs and their owners.

“The yearly event welcomes quintessential classics like speedy Mini Coopers, fierce Ferraris, luxury

BMWs and Italian supercars,” say Brit and Euro Classic Car Show organisers.

“The family show floods the Pakuranga park with colour with more than 1200 cars in attendance all supported by owners’ stories of ownership, family history and road trips.

“Attendance for 2025 is expected to be over 10,000, with food stalls providing delicious catering options.”

At this edition of the event, organisers say the Revival Show centrepiece will be themed Red Roadsters.

“It will celebrate opentop motoring options from the likes of manufacturers Jaguar, MG, Triumph, Ferrari, Sunbeam and more.

“Roadsters have always had a strong link as classic cars and can generally be described as a two-seater

car with emphasis on sporting appearance or character.

“MG with their MG ‘B’ and Midgets, once a regular sight on New Zealand roads, are sure to put in a strong appearance this year.

“Always a favourite, the Revival Grid attracts race cars of all genres, open wheelers, sports cars, rally and touring options, both formal race and tribute reproductions.”

The organisers say there are “notable anniversaries this year”, with the TR Register, Porsche, and Alfa Romeo car owners’ clubs all celebrating 50 years with special display zones.

“Theming of club stands is actively encouraged which leads to some interesting displays such as the Monte Carlo arrival podium in the Mini Car

Club of Auckland area.

“Whether you’re a lifelong lover of classic cars, seasoned collector, or just fancy a look at some beautiful classic and vintage vehicles, then dust off your maps and head on down between 10am and 3pm on March 2.”

The team of active and committed volunteers from east Auckland’s popular community radio station, East FM, will also be in attendance as they have since the annual show started, and will be broadcasting live from the event.

East FM can be heard on local east Auckland frequencies 88.1FM and 107.1FM, at www.eastfm. nz, and the station is on the iHeart Radio app.

For more information about the Brit and Euro Classic Car Show, see www. briteurocarshow.nz.

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Pak’nSave Highland Park Formal Opening

Photos supplied Howick Photographic Society

More than 100 people turned out at dawn on February 25 to celebrate the formal opening of Pak’nSave Highland Park with its owner-operators Wade and Diana Brown. Among those on hand were Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, Foodstuffs North Island chief executive Chris Quin, members of the Howick Local Board, and local school principals and business owners. The ceremony included a karakia, blessing and speeches before the supermarket’s doors opened to the public at 7.30am.

$5.5m grant for sports development

An east Auckland sports club has received more funding to help it achieve its goal of building a high-quality facility to cater to the wider community.

Pakuranga United Rugby Club (PURC) wants to provide indoor sports courts plus associated facilities including an expanded gymnasium, new change rooms, toilets, storage, and administration rooms at an expanded facility to be named the Howick Pakuranga Community Sports Centre (HPCSC) at its premises in Lloyd Elsmore Park.

The club’s celebrating the news Auckland Council is awarding it a further $5,571,061 towards the development.

“It’s relatively unprecedented to receive a grant of this amount and goes

to show Auckland Council understands our vision and potential to be a real community hub in east Auckland,” PURC chairman and HPCSC spokesperson Robert Neil says.

The new funding adds to $2,423,939 the project received late last year, taking the total amount received to $7,995,000.

HPCSC currently encompasses the Lloyd Elsmore Park grounds and facilities which are home to PURC, Pakuranga United Netball

Club, Pakuranga Touch Rugby module, Lloyd Elsmore Park Badminton Club, affiliate sports clubs Tamaki Lighting American Football Club and Howick Pakuranga Baseball Club.

It’s recently become the new hospitality venue of the Howick RSA.

The new funding is going towards adding additional space and indoor mixed-use courts to expand the centre’s ability to cater for more sports and community groups.

Neil says he’s grateful for the council’s confidence in the project and while the funding is a “critical step”, he emphasises the project is far from complete and requires a further $4m of financial support from the community.

A fundraising campaign is set to be launched, inviting businesses, supporters and community members to contribute to help bring the vision to life.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring something special for east Auckland.

“With your support, we can turn this vision into reality.”

• For more information on how to support the development, contact PURC general manager Mike Bongiovanni –

Book details life inside Gloriavale

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Aformer member of the high-profile New Zealand sect Gloriavale has written a book about her life and she’s launching it at an event in rural east Auckland.

Theophila Pratt, who was named Honey Faithful at birth, was born and raised in the fundamentalist Christian community located on the West Coast of the South Island.

It was founded in 1969 by Australian evangelist Neville Cooper, who was known as Hopeful Christian.

Despite various high-profile court cases centred on allegations of sexual abuse and worker exploitation, the community is still in operation.

Pratt says she found herself questioning the “hostile and controlling environment” in which she lived, where a “small contingent of men held all the power”.

At 18 years old, having been sheltered from the outside world, and with no

knowledge of how society operated, she was forced to leave Gloriavale, she says.

Pratt says she wrote the book to not only give her own story a voice but also to help others who have lived in controlling environments to feel seen and heard.

“Eight years on from leaving, I often find myself thinking back to the teenage girl in Gloriavale who looked around and wanted to scream for help so often,” she says.

“The young woman who longed to be heard without judgement and seen as the valuable female she was.

“None of those things were possible during my 18 years spent in the rural West Coast community.”

In her book Pratt talks about daily life in Gloriavale. She says she left school when she was 15, which is the age up to which females in the community are educated.

“I was then rostered full-time on one of the four teams of women which ranged from girls as

young as five to women in their sixties. Our workday started at 4am.”

Pratt, who lives in Auckland, is a qualified occupational therapist and owns her own home.

She’s motivated to tell her story to unveil the community’s secrets and to empower other survivors to “break free of the cycle of abuse”.

Her experience was explored in the TVNZ documentary Escaping Utopia, in which she was filmed travelling overseas to visit her sister, who lives in a Gloriavale community in India.

Theophila Pratt’s book on her life in Gloriavale is intended to inspire other survivors to share their own stories.

“I want everyone in Gloriavale, even the people of my mother’s generation, to realise their life can be so much more than that place,” Pratt says.

“Sometimes, when people see or hear our names, they put us in a box. By doing this, they make it even harder for us to leave Gloriavale behind.

“While living inside Gloriavale, we didn’t have a voice. Now we’re on the outside, there’s a group of us who have banded together and we’re showing the leaders the power that’s held in the voices of women. We will not be silenced.”

Pratt’s 224-page book is for sale for $39.99. It’s being launched at Hallertau in Clevedon, with a book signing, from 6.30pm-8.30pm on March 7.

For more information, see www.theopratt.com.

Photo supplied

Luxury automotive brand arrives

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

One of the world’s top luxury automotive brands has arrived in east Auckland with the launch of its newest dealership.

More than 100 people, including Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon, Japanese Consul-General Shinji Matsui, and Toyota New Zealand chief executive Tatsuya Ishikawa, turned out to celebrate the recent opening of executive director Rick Armstrong’s Lexus of East Auckland on Ti Rakau Drive.

Luxon told the attendees it was going to be an “absolutely outstanding showroom to showcase a premium product to many

Kiwis, which is fantastic”.

“As the local Botany MP, what a great place to invest in. A great place for Rick to put his money into and we appreciate you doing so.

“It’s going to create jobs and growth for our local economy and, again, congratulations to all of you.”

Lexus New Zealand says the dealership is an “exciting development in the growth of the Lexus brand and experience in New Zealand and provides an important opportunity in east and south Auckland for Lexus customers”.

“Sitting on a generous

7,000 square metre site, the 600sqm showroom will host a large customer lounge, a full barista café, dining area, plus business areas for customers.”

Armstrong’s chief executive officer Troy Kennedy says the development marks a significant milestone for Armstrong’s as it continues to expand its footprint in the Auckland region.

“Our investment in a new Lexus dealership in east Auckland reflects both our confidence in the region’s growth and Lexus’s ongoing dedication to innovation and sustainability.”

Lexus New Zealand vice president Andrew Davis says the new dealership strongly reflects where Lexus as a car marque is heading in New Zealand.

The new Lexus of East Auckland dealership sits on a 7,000 square metre site on Ti Rakau Drive. Times photo

Celebration as new Latter-day Saints’ temple opens its doors

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

There are few buildings in Auckland as jaw-dropping as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ (LDS) new temple.

The massive structure is rising high on a hill overlooking the Southern Motorway in Manukau and took five years to build.

It was designed by Walker Community Architects and built by Westland Construction NZ.

LDS members consider their temples to be a “house of the Lord” and the most sacred place of worship on Earth.

On February 24 the temple’s doors were opened to news media for a walkthrough and the chance to talk to senior church leaders including General Authority Seventies member Elder Steven Bangerter, Elder Brett Nattress, and Elder Peter Meurs, the church’s Pacific area president.

LDS members carry out a two-year overseas “mission”, and Meurs, who’s Australian, served part of his mission in Howick when he was 20 years old.

The former engineer says back then he had no idea he’d one day return to Auckland to celebrate the temple’s completion.

“I had no concept of that at all. I had first-year engineering before my mission and didn’t know where that would take me.

“All the things that have happened since then have been quite amazing.

“I’m so delighted things

have turned out as they have and I get to be here for this glorious day when there’s a temple in Auckland. It’s such a blessing.”

In every room of the multi-storey building are impressive paintings or furniture or other objects to ponder.

The design features motifs familiar to Kiwis including of kowhai, Pohutukawa, manuka,

kauri, and silver fern. Its blue and green interior colours represent the paua shell, with accents of gold.

The floor is white marble and the carpets are 100 per cent New Zealand wool.

There are large paintings depicting Bible scenes, stunning crystal chandeliers hanging in multiple rooms, a large pool for baptisms, dressing rooms for changing into white clothing, and stunning stainedglass windows.

One space allows church members to watch videos telling LDS stories while nearby the high-ceilinged “Celestial Room” is intended as a place of quiet contemplation.

There’s also a room for brides to get changed into their wedding gown as well as a room specifically for couples to be “sealed” to each other in marriage.

Once the new temple is dedicated at a ceremony in April, only faithful members of the LDS church will be able to enter it.

People can take part in free 30-minute tours of the building, which must be booked in advance, until March 22.

Elder Peter Meurs and his wife Maxine were among the LDS church members who assisted with a tour of their new temple in Manukau on February 24. Times photo

Community patrollers happy with new ride

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

The dedicated members of a local community crime-prevention group have upgraded their tired and worn-out patrol vehicle for a new set of wheels.

The Howick and Pakuranga Community Patrol (HPCP) recently acquired a 2024 MG ZS. It’s powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine and equipped with the technology of a brand-new vehicle.

The group’s previous patrol vehicle, a Nissan Qashqai, had travelled more than 200,000km and needed to be replaced. It’s been donated to a patrol group in South Auckland.

HPCP chairperson Garry Shearer says the new patrol vehicle cost the group about $23,000.

“The funding came from Pub Charity. There’s about five patrol groups in the Counties Manukau district that belong to a Trust.

“They get funding from the council and they put in about $10,000. Also, we got funding for the light bar

[on the vehicle’s roof] and we chipped in some money ourselves from our own funds.”

Shearer says the MG is “a lot more modern and reliable” than the group’s old Nissan.

“We have two cars. The Howick Police station is locked up at night so one car is kept at a member’s house so the night patrollers can access it easily.

“The two cars get used equally. This nice white patrol car at a glance looks like a police car, so any offenders get a bit nervous when they see it.”

Member Godfrey Huckle

STEWART SURVEYING

says the group’s patrollers go to places the police often don’t, such as local side roads. “The police haven’t got time to patrol every corner, so we do all the side roads, and we often find old wrecks of cars, or damaged or stolen cars.”

Howick Police community services supervisor, sergeant Brett Meale, says the patrol group is an “extra set of eyes and ears for the police, helping to prevent crime in the area”.

“The best thing is they provide reassurance to people in the community just by seeing them in the area.

“I hear it all the time.

People love seeing the community patrol going around the streets.”

Shearer says the group is always seeking new patrollers. “We’ve got about 45 active members, but we do three shifts. We do morning, afternoon, and night patrols, five to six days a week. We struggle to get people who want to do weekends and we’re also fairly low on night patrols. A lot of our patrollers are retired people.

“We’re getting a lot of members who are a bit younger. We’re trying to attract Asian members to the patrol and we’re getting quite a bit of success.”

Patrollers must be over 18 years of age and have no criminal record.

“We’ve got a training programme they go through and online training,” Shearer says.

“We give them training patrols and take them out three times until they feel comfortable.”

People interested in joining the group can visit www.hpcp.org.nz or email membership@hpcp.org.nz.

With the new Howick and Pakuranga Community Patrol vehicle are, from left Howick Police sergeant Brett Meale and patrollers Bill Connor, Godfrey Huckle, Garry Shearer and Brian Armstrong.

Making great compost

Why go out to a plant shop to buy potting or garden mix when you can do it yourself, using the materials in your backyard?

It’s so simple, if you know how to make it. Good compost needs nitrogen, carbon, air, and water.

Too much nitrogen can let ammonia form, and it can heat the compost up to excessively high temperatures.

Too much carbon can make the compost stay cold and not break down.

Greens, or nitrogen-rich materials, include grass clippings out of the lawnmower, coffee grounds, food scraps, or crushed eggshells.

Weeds are also rich in nitrogen, and weeds are always destroying your lush grass!

Dry leaves, old newspapers shredded up, and plant stalks are all examples of browns (carbon-rich materials). Make sure to add a little bit of both of these items.

Now to talk more about food you can put in and what food you can’t.

Things such as banana skins provide plenty of

potassium, which is a great fertiliser, and will help make your compost extra nice.

Carrot shavings, avocado skins, strawberry tops, and even corncobs are examples of other food scraps great for your bin.

Some things to avoid are meat, fish, bones (bone meal’s okay), dairy products, glossy paper, plastic, herbicide-treating plants or grass, fats, greasy foods, and plastic stickers on banana skins. These cannot decompose and will leave plastic in your soil. Who

wants that!

You’ll need a compost bin to start. Mitre10 and Bunnings have some great ones, and I recommend a 240-litre compost bin. Too small will disable the heating process, which is what makes it decompose.

Make sure it has small holes and a lid, so the operation is aerobic, not anaerobic.

Once you’ve got your bin, put it on some soil in the backyard against the fence or something, just not next to the house, so worms can get up and help decompose the compost even more.

Start by piling some hay or grass clippings into the compost until it’s about ⅛ full.

Place your food scraps into the compost, making sure they aren’t adjacent to the edge of it.

Pile more grass clippings into it. Some dry leaves will add the carbon to it.

Keep piling that onto the grass clippings until it’s half full. Use a hose to wet the compost pile and make it soaked.

Add some more browns and greens, making sure to add even amounts of both brown and green compost.

HOWICK

RIO CARTER

The reason I said to put food scraps lower is because otherwise it may attract rats.

It still may, which is why I said to put it away from the house. Stay aware of this and be careful not to ruin your soil.

Once it’s at least a metre high, you can water it more until it’s all wet. Put the lid on, and water regularly.

At six weeks since you started it, use a stick to turn the compost so the decomposed stuff goes where the non-decomposed stuff was.

Do this regularly (every six or so weeks) and after four to eight months it should be ready!

Anything like bones and meat, put into your Auckland Council food scraps bin and put it out on your collection day.

Hope you can manage to make great compost like I managed to!

• Rio Carter is in year 8 at Bucklands Beach Intermediate School

Dry leaves are among the materials people can use in their compost. Photo supplied Rio Carter

Jewellery giant to open showroom

One of the world’s largest jewellery brands is coming to east Auckland within the next six months.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds is set to open a “flagship” showroom at the Botany Town Centre, as well as locations in Hamilton and Wellington, as part of its $75 million retail expansion into New Zealand.

The move follows a free trade agreement signed between the governments of New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The company says five per cent of profits will be allocated to a range of health, housing, education and other initiatives locally.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds is the sixth largest jewellery retailer globally

with more than 375 showrooms in 13 countries.

Its arrival here is aligned with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between the United Arab Emirates and New Zealand, which fosters increased trade and economic collaboration between the two countries.

“As a globally-recognised jewellery retailer managing its international

operations from the UAE, the CEPA between the UAE and New Zealand significantly bolsters our efforts to enter this new market,” Malabar Group chairman M.P Ahammed says.

“By capitalising on the opportunities presented by this bilateral trade agreement, Malabar Gold and Diamonds marks a significant milestone in our overarching vision to become the world’s number-one

jewellery retailer.”

As this country’s first Indian international jewellery retailer, Malabar Gold and Diamonds will offer an extensive collection of ethically-sourced gold and diamond jewellery, showcasing the world-renowned craftsmanship of Indian artisans.

“In line with the brand’s time-tested commitment of providing customers with an exceptional and transparent jewellery shopping experience, customers will also enjoy the Malabar Promise, which includes assured lifetime maintenance globally, 100 per cent value on gold and diamond exchange, certified diamonds and a host of other benefits,” the company says.

Mortgage relief welcome, but...

Every night on the 6pm news, the political media in Wellington seems to focus on a different sideshow.

Each week when I return from Wellington to Pakuranga and speak with my neighbours and community members, I’m reminded the single largest concern for ordinary Kiwis is the cost of living.

A major part of our living costs come from housing, and in particular, interest rates.

Mortgage holders have felt the sting of rising rates in recent years, while renters may have noticed their payments creeping up as landlords try to cover their own increased expenses.

But there’s reason to be hopeful. The Reserve Bank recently cut the Official Cash Rate by another

Parmjeet Parmar

0.5 points, and banks responded by cutting interest rates.

The Reserve Bank makes its decisions independently, but all of us contribute to the context in which it acts.

Households contributed by tightening their budgets in the face of mounting expenses.

These efforts have helped curb inflation, which is why the Reserve

Bank has had confidence to deliver relief for mortgage payers.

Then there’s the role of politicians. Government spending, like household spending, contributes to inflation and interest rates.

The Government has made moves to cut Labour’s wasteful spending, and to reduce bureaucracy in Wellington, as advocated by ACT.

This has helped, but more action is possible, and is needed, to give households relief.

The people paying the bills deserve leadership that reflects their own financial discipline.

We cannot expect to see interest rates keep dropping without persistent effort from Wellington.

Consider this: the cost of

just the interest on Government debt is forecast to hit $9.2 billion in the 2024/25 fiscal year. That’s enough to build ten Puhoi to Warkworth motorways, just to service one year of borrowing costs.

This burden stems partly from elevated interest rates and growing debt levels. Without substantial spending cuts, these payments could soon outstrip investments in education, policing, defence, and other essential services.

By slashing waste and easing interest pressures, we enable firms, farms, and families to retain more of their income.

This gives them the freedom to direct resources where they see fit, paving the way for genuine prosperity and growth.

Your input needed so we can deliver

From Friday, February 28, until Friday, March 28, public consultation will be open on the proposed annual budget for Auckland Council and Howick Local Board.

We’re focused on delivering the next year of our strategy, responding to the changing needs of our diverse and growing communities.

Protecting and restoring the enviroment remains a high priority, and we’re looking at ways to improve how we measure progress.

Targeted monitoring of water quality and pollution will help ensure our investment is achieving the outcomes our awa (waterways) need.

We’re also responding to the demand for a dump

station in Half Moon Bay and proactive surveillance to tackle illegal dumping in Flat Bush.

We’re proposing a modest increase in investment into our youth and local economic development to support our businesses as they recover from a challenging period.

This includes youth upskilling, more crime-prevention funding, and refreshing our tourism and heritage plans, which were last updated in 2016.

To accommodate the massive population growth in Flat Bush, we’ve been advocating to build the critical Flat Bush Community Centre and Library, and the Pool and Leisure Centre.

We’re pleased funding has been allocated from

next year, but even with this funding, delivery is still some years away, so we’re exploring ways to accelerate them both including potentially a targeted rate. Cost pressures remain

so we may need to adjust our existing programmes to fit within our constrained budget.

We welcome feedback on areas you think may be a lower priority if we need to reduce our spending.

Your input into this process is invaluable, helping ensure we focus on what’s important to our community.

You can have your say at your local library, online, or in person at the Auckland Brit and Euro Classic Car Show this Sunday, March 2, in Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga.

FIND OUT MORE & STAY IN TOUCH

Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/howick

Facebook: facebook.com/HowickLB

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

ACT List MP

Howick Local Board Chair Damian Light

Pharmac decision increases access

There’s been some good news from Pharmac this month.

The agency has announced its decision to fund medicines for a further five health conditions, including cancers, from March 1.

This follows our Government’s $604 million funding uplift to increase access to cancer medicines.

Delivering access to timely, quality cancer care in New Zealand has been a focus of this Government, which is why it’s one of our five key health targets, and why we’re making a record investment in health.

• Widening access to atezolizumab (Tecentriq) and bevacizumab (Vegzelma) for liver cancer that can’t be removed by surgery.

• Widening access to bevacizumab (Vegzelma) for advanced ovarian cancer.

• Funding lanreotide for neuroendocrine cancers, bowel blockages caused by cancer, and for a growth disorder called acromegaly.

As Minister of Health, I’m focused on ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare.

That means ensuring better access to more cancer medicines, better cancer management driven by our faster cancer treatment target, and earlier detection of cancers through screening programmes.

It’s encouraging to see improvement in our efforts to provide faster cancer treatment, with more patients receiving their first treatment within 31 days in the first financial quarter than in the previous quarter and more cancer treatments available.

We want to build a

• Funding a new brand of bevacizumab (Vegzelma).

MP for Pakuranga Simeon Brown

world-class health system, and that requires worldclass medicines.

Our Government has also announced funding of more than $14m to replace the main water supply and ring mains in the main building of Auckland City Hospital.

The over 20-year-old pipes are in poor condition, and the current design means burst pipes cannot be turned off without also switching off the hot water supply to the whole building.

This system has already

failed twice in the past six months, most recently on January 26, when the entire hot water supply had to be shut off to repair an isolated leak.

Fixing this problem is a priority for me as access to hot water in our hospitals is a basic necessity for patients and staff, and the day-to-day running of clinical services.

That’s why I’ve approved funding to replace the main supply line and ring mains, the first of three stages to replace the existing piping with copper pipes.

The first phase of work is expected to take place over 13 months with a carefully planned approach that will minimise disruptions to clinical care.

The Government’s record $16.68 billion in funding for health will help ensure Kiwis have access to timely, quality healthcare in hospitals that have fitfor-purpose infrastructure.

Interest rates are coming down

For many Kiwis, the past few years have been challenging. High interest rates, inflation, and the cost of living have hit households and businesses hard.

But the latest announcement from the Reserve Bank – a 50-basis point drop in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) – is welcome news. It’s the third reduction since last August, and it brings the OCR down to 3.75 per cent.

In simple terms, it means people will see more money in their pockets in the coming months.

From the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon

percentage points over six months could make a tangible difference in what families and businesses can do with their finances. It’s also a sign of growing confidence among businesses.

A stable and more predictable economic environment encourages companies to invest, expand, and hire.

Survey shows confidence has surged 68 points since July 2024 – the largest improvement since the question was first introduced in 2016 – reflecting new optimism within the sector.

Looking ahead, we want to keep driving this momentum.

For many, this drop is not just about relief in the short term, but also a sense of stability.

A drop of almost two

For homeowners with mortgages, lower interest rates are likely to bring down repayments.

Last week, the BNZ and Business NZ reported that manufacturing growth had risen its highest level since September, 2022 – a clear sign that confidence is returning.

The latest Federated Farmers Farm Confidence

There’s still work to do, but we’re committed to delivering the best outcomes for New Zealanders.

Economic growth is how we reduce the cost of living and help you and your family get ahead – and that’s what our Government is focused on doing.

YOUR MOVE MADE SIMPLE

RETIREMENT LIVING SEMINAR

WEDNESDAY 5 MARCH, 1.30PM

Are you considering retirement village living? Join us for an insightful event where you’ll gain expert advice on everything you need to know.

Gain insights on the property market from experienced real estate agent Richard White from Harcourts* and hear from Richard Galbraith of Fencible Law as he sheds light on the legal matters. Finally, hear from one of our residents about their moving experience and tips on transitioning into village life.

Don’t miss the opportunity to plan with confidence for your future.

*Licensed Agent REAA 2008

RSVP is essential Call Rose or Jackie on 09 535 0225

Richard White

Richard is a seasoned real estate professional and auctioneer with over 15 years of experience in the Auckland real estate market.

Richard Galbraith

Richard has been involved in the legal profession since 1990 specialising in Property Law and has worked with many clients helping them set up EPA’s, draft Wills and assist with ORA’s.

BRUCE MCLAREN VILLAGE

795 Chapel Road, Howick

Public Opinion

Madeleine Kearns, 8, Year 4

“The 55th jubilee is like a school birthday. Lots of mums and dads and families will be coming here to visit and celebrate.”

Audrey Henderson, 8, Year 4

“Sunnyhills School started in 1970. My mum and uncle came here as students. I really like learning and playing with my friends.”

Sunnyhills School, the primary where the sun shines all the time because it’s in Sunnyhills, celebrates its 55th jubilee in 2025. PJ TAYLOR, with the school’s and parents’ permission, asked students what they’re learning for the anniversary. Jubilee story, page 22.

Luca Sutherland, 8, Year 4

“Sunnyhills School opened in 1970, and we have been looking through old photographs and working out in what decades they were taken.”

Lakyn Church, 8, Year 4

“In our class, we have been looking at the old photos and have been working out where in the school they were taken.”

Ranger Davis, 8, Year 4

“Our theme for this year 2025 is in te reo Maori language: ‘Titiro whakamuri, kokiri whakamua’.”

Octavia Everest, 8, Year 4

“The English language translation for our theme is: ‘Look back and reflect, so you can move forward together’.”

World leading Rotarian’s legacy

OBITUARY

A true humanitarian with a pronounced focus on fresh water and literacy, Bill Boyd passed away towards the end of January leaving a legacy for others to follow.

He was born in Christchurch, schooled in Wellington, before moving to Whanganui where his parents had purchased a bookshop, and then Hamilton to a new bookstore.

He attracted the attention of publishers and distributors Gordon and Gotch and was invited to go to Wellington where he became magazine department manager, progressing to New Zealand circulation manager, and then to Wellington branch manager.

Bill Boyd QSO, CNZM (1933-2025), Rotary International World

President 2006-2007

In 1985, Bill and his family moved to Cockle Bay due to his promotion with Gordon and Gotch.

Bill joined the Wellington Rotary Club in 1971, became president of the club in 1978, and followed

on to become district governor for the lower third of the North Island in 1983.

On the family’s move to east Auckland, he transferred his membership to the Pakuranga Rotary Club in 1985 where he continued until his passing.

Due to his involvement in many aspects of Rotary, Bill was appointed a director of Rotary International and elected to World President for 2006-2007 at a convention attended by 45,000 attendees in Chicago, USA.

He conversed with many world leaders. During this time, Rotary was determined to be a major part in ridding polio from the endemic countries around the world and was able to negotiate with the Bill and Melinda Gates

Foundation which donated more than $200 million to the cause.

Rotary worldwide is made up of 1.16 million members in 36,500 clubs.

Literacy was Bill’s passion and through a trust set up in his and his wife’s name, around 230,000 copies of the Usborne Illustrated English Dictionary have been distributed by Rotary clubs to Year 5 children in New Zealand’s low-decile schools – worth approximately $7 million.

During a lifetime one meets many people, and many good people.

It’s a rare privilege to meet a great person. It was indeed, to many, a privilege to have known Bill, for he was a great man.

– Alan Davies, Pakuranga Rotary Club

TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY NEW STORE. OPENS SOON.

TUESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY NEW STORE. OPENS SOON. IT’S ABOUT TO GET SAVEY IN HERE!

ABOUT TO GET SAVEY IN HERE!

NEW STORE. OPENS SOON. IT’S ABOUT TO GET SAVEY IN HERE!

STORE. OPENS SOON. IT’S ABOUT TO GET SAVEY IN HERE!

‘We

are the ones you can trust’

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Russ Wilkinson knows what it takes to keep his customers happy and coming back on a regular basis.

The owner of Botany Pak’nSave works alongside a highly experienced management team of 14 people, with an average length of time in the business of more than 20 years.

He says they’re dedicated to providing their more than 40,000 shoppers each week with access to New Zealand’s lowest food prices, the freshest product, and great customer service.

“We’ve grown to be one of the top three stores in the country in terms of sales and we’ve been able to get to the top through our performance and continuity.

“We haven’t been given

Botany Pak’nSave owner Russ Wilkinson, front, with his highly experienced management team.

that reputation. We’ve earned it through 30 years of hard graft.

“We’re the ones you know you can trust, and we have 30 years of experience in serving our local southeast Auckland community.”

Wilkinson says the supermarket’s been refurbished, updated and modernised with new equip-

photo

ment and layout as part of its drive to stay clean and tidy and free flowing for customers.

The store has new racking, a new polished concrete floor, brand new seafood ice deck and a new chiller for lunch offers.

It’s also got plenty of free parking right outside the front door and a Pak’nSave

fuel station on-site.

“We have the Botany Town Centre right next door,” Wilkinsons says. “It offers lunch, dinner, and entertainment options for everyone. It’s all right here at the Botany Town Centre.”

The supermarket is offering special discounts on Pak’nSave fuel from February 24 to March 9.

Customers who spend $100 at Botany Pak’nSave in that time will receive 10 cents off per litre of fuel and people who spend $200 will get 20 cents off per litre.

“That’s an example of the savings people get here that aren’t just food savings,” Wilkinson says.

“Fuel is the second biggest cost most households have so we’re looking after that as well.”

Times

Business sales market update

Daren Leng, Senior Business Broker, ABC Business Sales

With a certain air of optimism in the economy and what 2025 looks like, I thought I’d share some insights into the current business sales market. I often hear people say, “Oh, it must be tough out there trying to sell businesses at the moment”. Well, my answer is the opposite and here’s why. These are some key facts taken from ABC Business Sales Quarterly Market Intelligence Report, recently released.

Buyer interest is at record levels  with 23,750 potential purchasers signing confidentiality agreements in the past year, a 39 per cent increase from 2023.

Business sales are up six per cent nationwide over the past 12 months, driven by two key buyer groups, namely new migrants and former corporate employees.

Valuation multiples have increased by seven per cent (3.39x to 3.64x EBITDA), proving demand remains strong for well-performing businesses.

Businesses for sale have seen a 14 per cent decrease nationwide (-1 per cent with ABC) meaning fewer businesses to choose from.

We expect that with falling interest rates this will fuel buyer confidence and with a shortage of businesses for sale, this will see stiff competition from buyers. This will drive business values as we see no letting up on buyer enquiry coming through.

If you’re keen to read the full report, or would like to discuss selling your business, give me a call or send a confidential email.

For expert advice, contact Daren Leng, Senior Business Broker at ABC Business Sales Ph 021 0278 6045 or email darenl@abcbusiness.co.nz

I provide lifeboats

Risk Insurance Advisor Steve O’Connor helps people ensure they have the right insurance cover when they need it most.

Last week, I had the privilege of hearing Nigel Latta speak at an insurance seminar. Many of you will know Nigel as a respected clinical psychologist, renowned for his true-crime documentaries and psychologyfocused TV shows.

Eight months ago, Nigel received the devastating news he had terminal stomach cancer. His presentation was a moving, deeply personal account of the emotional journey he’s been on since that day.

One message Nigel repeated throughout his talk stood out: Gratitude for insurance advisers.

When he first learned of his diagnosis, the first call he made wasn’t to family, friends, or colleagues – it was to his insurance broker. In the depths of despair, that call brought him something invaluable – relief.

Nigel admitted: “I know insurance brokers aren’t high on most people’s agendas,” yet he shared his heartfelt thanks for the work they do. “You gave me a lifeboat,” he said. “Without it, I would have sunk. Thank you for doing the job you do.”

Thanks to his insurance cover, Nigel and his family have financial certainty. More than that, he has access to the best cancer treatments and medications available in New Zealand. He firmly believes that without the options his insurance provided, he wouldn’t be here today.

Let’s have a chat. I provide lifeboats. Would you like one?

Look back, move forward

„ By PJ TAYLOR

Turning 55 is a significant milestone and the students, teachers and community of Sunnyhills School are getting excited about its upcoming jubilee activities.

As well as staging 55th anniversary events in early April, pupils of the east Auckland primary school are discovering how its evolved since opening in 1970.

“This term all of the students are learning about different aspects of our rich history and will be contributing to the schoolwide displays, jubilee activities and presentations,” says long-time Sunnyhills School teacher and convenor of its jubilee committee, Vanessa Cammell.

She arrived at Sunnyhills in the early 1990s and when the Times visited the school she was with teacher and team leader Caitlin Davis, who has a daughter Ranger attending; and teacher and board member Stephanie Trembath, who said her first involvement with the primary was when her boys went there as students.

They say all the chil-

dren are getting involved and enjoying the different learning topics for the jubilee.

Year 6 students are studying school camps, Year 1 pupils are visiting the Howick Historical Village to get an understanding of the early days of this east Auckland area in the 1900s, while Year 4s are looking at how playing games has evolved through the decades.

Year 3s are involved in music and dance, while most of the young ones will also learn of how the local area of Sunnyhills and connecting neighbourhoods and suburbs have developed over more than half a century.

Cammell says Sunny-

Where Children and Learning Matter

hills Primary is also “reaching out to those who have had a past association with the school and may wish to reconnect – past pupils, parents, staff members and friends of the school”.

There are two main jubilee events, says Cammell: The Mix ’n Mingle on the evening of Thursday, April 3; and the Open Day on Friday, April 4.

The Mix ’n Mingle, from 6-8pm, is a chance to reminisce, an “opportunity to take a trip down memory lane, reconnect with school friends from the past and maybe even some teachers, view multi-media displays, photos and momentos from 55 years of life at Sunnyhills”, she says.

The Open Day, from

10am to 3pm, will provide visitors the chance to “see 21st century education in action”, says Cammell.

“Pop into the classrooms to see the children at work or better still join one of our student-led guided tours to hear about and experience school life in 2025.”

There’ll also be a morning tea when guests can meet with teachers or be with their children or grandchildren, and at midday there’s a picnic lunch planned.

“Feel free to bring your own lunch and once again enjoy that school lunch eating experience in our vibrant grounds or pick up a pre-ordered picnic lunch,” says Cammell.

The special Celebration Assembly at 1.30pm on Open Day in the school hall will “showcase the students and their learning around our theme for the term – titiro whakamuri, kokiri whakamua – look back and reflect, so you can move forward”.

• For more information about and to register for the Sunnyhills School’s 55th jubilee events, send an email to jubilee@ sunnyhills.school.nz or phone 09 576 8031.

The colourful old wooden boat has been decorated in an art project led by local artist, Amber Adams. Times photo PJ Taylor

PRINCIPAL IN PERSON With Dale Burden, Howick College

What’s the best thing about being an educator and principal?

I got into teaching to make a difference to young people based on my own experiences. I was lucky to have been taught by my mostly hardworking teachers who wanted to make a positive difference. The best ones did not accept mediocrity, had high expectations and while they were friendly, they were firm and demanding of students.

For me, the thing I enjoy the most is when your efforts as a teacher result in learning happening in the classroom. The look in a student’s eye or the expression on their face when they “get it” is worth all the hard work to get them there.

Of all the roles in a school the classroom teacher is the most important. In education good teachers get promoted out of the classroom into offices as heads of faculty and then senior leaders. As I’ve moved up the promotion ladder, I’ve not changed my main driver to make a difference.

These days as a principal I enjoy working with

other adults to get schoolwide improvements.

So, the joy of making a difference is still there, it’s just on a larger scale and to achieve this you need a team of adults on the same page working together and going in the same direction.

This is a lot more complicated than doing what I did as a teacher and sports coach, when I just had my students or football team to work with.

Because as in any organisation not everyone gets on board right away and change takes time. But when it does happen, as I’ve experienced in every school I’ve led, it’s a great feeling to see the difference it can make across an entire school.

What makes Howick College special?

In my experience most New Zealand secondary schools have about 75 per cent of things that are the same.

The special character, socioeconomics, location and teacher expectations are those things that involve the type of culture that exists at the school.

Howick College therefore is very similar to many New Zealand schools.

What’s special about it is that for a large school – 2300 students – it has a small school feel about it. This is helped by its location close to the Howick Village and coast. It has a positive feeling where students are happy and feel known. It’s also a college that has a very diverse cohort of students.

While it’s not particularly multicultural there are many cultures, interests, and students with a wide range of abilities. The special thing about this is how well all students’ needs are met no matter ability level or interest. We do not have deficit thinking and have high expectations for all of our students regardless of backgrounds.

What improvements would you like to see in the education and school management sector?

Many things, however, the absence of any long-term plan in the education sector that’s established by people that actually understand each sector of educa-

tion and don’t come with a political agenda would be really useful.

The last three governments have caused huge upheaval in secondary schools with their political agendas. The previous government under Jacinda Ardern took us way too left and now we’re in a period of adjustment.

Keeping politicians and politics out of education would be a big step forward. Secondary education is not that difficult to manage. The removal of political agenda from our schools would make them so much easier to lead.

• Read full interview at www.times.co.nz

BARRY DREYER Q&A

The new president of the Howick Returned and Services Association talks to PJ TAYLOR about RSA activities and his life before taking up the role.

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND GREW UP?

Born in Whangarei at the end of WWII, and the family moved back to Hamiton before I started school. Grew up there and in sleepy Raglan where there was a family house and bach.

WHEN DID YOU JOIN THE NEW ZEALAND ARMY AND WHY?

I joined the Army at 16 from the end of sixth form, heading to the Royal Military College Duntroon in Canberra for four years. I had enjoyed School Cadets and with plenty of sport and outdoor living and some family military background decided on a career as a Regular Force Army officer. My graduating class is gathering back in Canberra in December to mark 60 years since our graduation in December 1965.

HOW LONG DID YOU SERVE IN THE NZ DEFENCE FORCE?

I had 15 years in the Regular Force. Within five months of graduating, and after some rapid training and exercising in New Zealand, I was deployed to the Republic of Vietnam, with about 24 other soldiers, and a couple of extra guns and Land Rovers, taking 161

Battery from four to six guns. I served there for 15 months in a variety of roles, including a period as Executive Officer of a US Artillery Battery, then running the gun group of 161 Battery for 11 months. We started with 173rd US Airborne Brigade and then joined the 1st Australian Task Force when it deployed. Apart from Vietnam, I had quite long deployments to Singapore and Malaysia, Thailand, and Australia. After my Regular service I spent time in the Territorial Force, and as Commanding Officer 16 Field Regiment, was closely involved in the re-equipment of the Regiment with guns, gun tractors and counter mortar radars. More recently, I held the Honorary role of Colonel Commandant of the Royal New Zealand Artillery from 2010 to 2017. This involved a couple of visits to South Korea and two to Australia, as well as plenty of work in New Zealand, and some in the UK.

YOU’VE BEEN THE NEW HOWICK RSA PRESIDENT FOR ABOUT SIX MONTHS. HOW IS THAT GOING?

The team at the RSA is working hard to centre our activities around the welfare and support of veterans and servicepeople in our community. We’re also determined to protect the cash and investment assets that have come from the support of the people in the greater Howick region during the Howick RSA’s 92 years of existence. During the Covid period the organisation lost a lot of

its membership base because the clubrooms in Wellington Street were closed. This led to zero income and the need to sell the hospitality site. The work we’re doing will see all our assets devoted to welfare activities in our region through three registered charities. Firstly, we look after returned veterans and their dependents who are in need, through our Poppy Trust. Our second welfare trust is the Community Trust which supports RSA members and the general community, providing help to anyone in need, and support for our youth through tertiary education scholarships and grants for youth development activities. The third charity is the Sale Street Trust which provides accommodation for those in need, particularly returned and servicepeople and their dependents. We’ve now also employed a specialist welfare officer and an administrative officer to help us achieve our aims, and we’ll have about nine times more welfare income to support the wider community. The RSA will continue to focus on civic commemorative activities such as Anzac Day. We’ll also continue to be very dependent on the generosity of the community in supporting us

over the annual Poppy Day week. Our main drive now is for members. We’d be very pleased to talk to anyone in the community on the benefits of membership of our RSA.

YOU’VE SIGNALLED A CHANGE TO THE PRIORITIES OF THE HOWICK RSA, A FOCUS ON GETTING BACK TO CORE

BUSINESS. HOW IS THAT PROGRESSING?

The changes are going well so far, and we should meet the reorganisation and financial targets for the end of March that we set ourselves at our AGM. We have just agreed our next set of plans to be achieved by August this year, and for our activities after August. We’ll also work hard to meet both these sets of targets.

WHAT

DID

YOU

DO

FOR A CAREER ON LEAVING THE DEFENCE FORCE?

I joined Challenge Corporation

in Wellington from Army General Staff and worked in HR and communications. My final role was heading the staff function and the communication/PR activities. After the merger of Challenge, Tasman Pulp and Paper, and Fletchers, I was the group personnel manager. I then took a six-month sabbatical in Europe with wife and kids and came back to Peat Marwick in Auckland as a management consultant before becoming self-employed as an owner in a management consultancy in Auckland for around 30 years. This work involved major consulting work across New Zealand and in Australia, Thailand and the Philippines, as well as in China, Japan and the UK.

WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES IN EAST AUCKLAND?

I have to say the Village itself. It has character, history and great amenities, and only gets better by the year. The Howick region is also blessed with lovely beaches, hidden gems of bush, a great sense of citizenship and a lively and interesting population.

Barry Dreyer, with Madeleine East, left, of the Howick RSA executive committee, and scholarship recipients Vina Lomawai and Stephanie Ly.

This is a shared arts column space put together by Howick Historical Village, Te Tuhi, and Uxbridge Arts and Culture.

PUZZLING OUT THE POLLINATOR NETWORK

„ By FRANCESCA LOLAIY, operations manager, and LUKE SOUTHERN, heritage gardener, Howick Historical Village

Hidden in the trees and gardens at Howick Historical Village, interactive art pieces and handcrafted emblems of birds, bees, and creatures are waiting to be discovered.

Part of a temporary installation created by the village’s heritage gardener Luke Southern, The Pollinator Trail highlights the vital role these creatures play in our ecosystems and the delicate balance of all living things in our environment.

Pollinators help plants reproduce. To put this in perspective, they’re responsible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food. Without them, agricultural economies, our food supply, and surrounding landscapes would collapse.

Crafted in timber using pyrography (woodburning) with colour and resin added, Luke’s dynamic pieces include giant mobiles and puzzles, optical illusions, totems and hanging pendants.

Working on art pieces of native birds during the lockdown in 2021 inspired Luke to create a fully immersive trail, one that would take visitors through various natural settings in the village’s sevenacre landscape.

Each site is connected to the beneficials – creatures and organisms good for the garden – found in those habitats.

The tui are in the kowhai; lizards in

pohutukawa, as they love its sweet nectar; monarchs over nettles as some butterflies lay eggs in the stinging plants for protection; and moths in dark areas of bush.

The trail ends with a giant jigsaw featuring many plants and insects.

It’s a metaphor for the interconnectedness of everything in Te Taio – the natural world that contains and surrounds us.

“Healthy ecosystems are about a multitude of pollinators and creatures working together,” Luke says.

The puzzle needs every piece of the pollinator network brought together in order to be complete.

This trail is about an understanding of the interdependence of all its elements and a relationship of respect and

Interactive art pieces are on show at Howick Historical Village.

understanding the natural world.

“Let the landscape tell you want it wants to do.”

Luke’s ethos as a gardener is to work with nature rather than to force a plan onto it. His top tips to create healthy environments for pollinators, beneficial insects, and animals to thrive:

• Limit spraying

• Don’t be afraid to leave a mess! A pile of leaves is an essential habitat for bugs and beneficials

• Where possible let flowers and plants run for their full cycle (go to seed etc)

The Pollinator Trail runs Saturday, March 1 to Wednesday, April 30 at Howick Historical Village, Bells Road, Pakuranga. Tuesday to Sunday 10am-4pm. Free with regular admission. historicalvillage.org.nz/eventslivedays

Photo supplied

On show

PAINTINGS BY DECORATIVE DESIGNER

The newest exhibition at Uxbridge Arts and Culture in east Auckland showcases work by experienced and versatile Howick artist Peter Hall.

Entitled Take Five, it opens at the facility in Uxbridge Road, Howick, on March 1 and is described as a survey of his sixdecade career.

It includes 16 paintings “demonstrating his eclectic oeuvre, genre hopping across landscape, architecture, representational and the abstract”.

“The exhibition at Uxbridge gives me an opportunity to show a selection of my different styles,” Hall says. “It’s a real pleasure to have the chance to show my diversity in my paintings.”

That diversity can be traced to a career in design. After graduating from the Royal

College of Art in the 1960s, Hall worked for many decades and in numerous countries as a fabric designer for fashion and home-furnishing products.

Exhibition curator Zoë May has selected paintings from Hall’s extensive career, a particular challenge given the breadth of his practice and the scale involved in many of his works. She hopes audiences will enjoy the interplay between Hall’s various modes.

“There’s a delightful contrast between Peter’s decorative and abstract work, driven by a career in the design industry, with his own stylised approach to contemporary landscape and representational painting,” May says.

Hall agrees with the sentiments, saying: “I am a decorative designer who also paints pictures.”

Unifying the exhibition is Hall’s love of jazz, acknowledged through the Take Five. The well-known jazz tune performed by the Dave Brubeck Quartet provided a suitable reference to both Hall’s passion for music, his virtuosity as an artist, and the desire to seek a challenge.

Uxbridge director Paul Brobbel says: “I was pleased to arrive at Uxbridge in 2023 and see Peter coming up in the programme. You can see his wonderful textile designs at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London so it’s a thrill to see a larger picture of his practice here in Auckland.”

Take Five runs from March 1 to April 19 and is open 10am-4pm every day except Sundays. Hall will deliver a free artist talk at Uxbridge on Saturday, April 5, at 11am.

This week’s Community Hero is Pragna Patel

The latest recipient is Pragna Patel.

She’s nominated by Bruce Kendall, who writes: “Pragna has been involved with organising community event stream clean-ups, general rubbish clean-ups, and plantings for a number of years. It seems like if I go to an environmental event, she’s there. She’s also been teaching kids to sail. Her passion for the environment and young people is clearly evident in her actions. She wasn’t born in New Zealand and she clearly loves the New Zealand environment. I find her inspirational.”

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.

If you know someone who’s doing amazing things in our community please email 50 to 100 words describing why they deserves this recognition, highlighting specific actions they’ve taken to benefit our community, with your and their contact details and a high-resolution photo of them if possible to chrish@ times.co.nz.

Be sure to include details about what they’ve been doing, the impact they’ve made, and how long they’ve been involved in these efforts. The award is sponsored by New World Howick. Recipients will receive a $50 New World gift card.

Get along to our amazing Cultural Food Festival

„ By KATIE TRENEMAN, Village Manager, Howick Village Association

What a wonderful weekend to be living in east Auckland. The Cultural Food Festival is on in the Village this Saturday, with the Auckland Brit and Euro Classic Car Show on Sunday at Lloyd Elsmore Park in Pakuranga. Picton Street will be closed on Saturday for our Cultural Food Festival event.

We’ve invited dragon and lion dancers, belly dancers, bagpipers, and Chinese drummers. We’re really excited to be bringing you fire dancers for the first time

this year and they’re due to perform at 11am. We have a dedicated family area set aside in Fencible Walk with child-friendly eateries and old-fashioned games.

The highlight has always been the Great Goblet race at 12pm down the hill through the crowds. Let’s see if Tyler from Urban in East can retain his crown of two years.

Put in your diary the East FM Vinyl Sale, on Saturday, March 8, from 8.30am-2.30pm in the War Memorial Building. Also, did you know that Unichem and Life Pharmacy offer a free app? You can order repeat

prescriptions, receive reminders for when to take medications, and manage the medications of others you care for.

We can’t wait to let you know who’s moving into what was the Vanilla premises at 65 Picton St. We’ll have an announcement for you shortly. We’ve also been advised that 60 Picton St (formerly Tremor Audio) has been leased – more detail to follow.

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We’re aware of prime premises on Picton St, approximately 100 square metres, coming available in the coming months. Email manager@howickvillage.co.nz.

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WHAT’S ON

PAKURANGA CROQUET CLUB

Come and try croquet, a great form of exercise. To be enjoyed by all young and old competitive or social. We play 9am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Mallets and coaching available. Contact Eileen Taylor 027 948 8925 for further information.

GARAGE SALE

Over the past few weeks, the Barn has been the scene of a series of break-ins and vandalism, which has resulted in quite severe damage to both the building and the stock. For this reason, therefore, we regretfully need to cancel the sale due to be held on March 1. At this point we are not sure what the future holds, but are hopeful we may be open for trading again in April.

ZONTA CLUB

The Zonta Club of East Auckland invites you to celebrate International Woman’s Day at the Howick Club on March 4 at 6pm. We will hear about Ruhi Kirin PhD and her work in ‘levering wearable technology for health monitoring’ as she discusses the feasibility of smart watches in clinical decision making. This will be an exciting evening as we learn about an area of digital health transformation. For more details email Barbara at eastauckland@zonta.org.nz.

INFORMATION SESSION

Citizens Advice Bureau Pakuranga is hosting a free information session on wills and enduring power of attorney on Friday, March 7, from 10.30am to 12pm

What’s On is a free community noticeboard for non-profit groups. Send notices of less than 50 words to chrish@times.co.nz. Due to space restrictions there is no guarantee your notice will run.

at Te Tuhi, 21 William Roberts Road, Pakuranga. It’s facilitated by Auckland Community Law Centre and will cover how to create a simple will/enduring power of attorney and risks of doing it wrong. Registration is necessary. To register email settlement.pakuranga@ cab.org.nz or text 022 308 9337.

GENEALOGISTS

The next meeting of the Howick Branch of the NZSG will be held on Saturday, March 8, at St Andrews Church Centre, Vincent Street, Howick at 1.30pm. The

talk will be on ‘Journeys to New Zealand in the 19th century’. Door charge $5. Visitors welcome. Further information ph 576 4715 or 576 5400.

FUN WALK AND RUN

The Rotary Club of Howick’s annual Fun Walk and Run event is at 9am on Sunday, March 16, at Stockade Hill. This is a Howick charity event with all proceeds going to Howick Coastguard. Register online at www.howickfunwalkrun.co.nz. Spot prizes and BBQ. You can also register on the day.

Cartoonist Roger Smith provides his witty take on important local, national and global issues.

SATURDAY 1 MARCH 2025 9AM-2.30PM

DISCOVER RARE PLANTS AND GARDEN INSPIRATION

Tucked away in the rolling countryside of Whitford, Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands is a haven for garden lovers. For two days this March, it becomes the ultimate destination for plant enthusiasts.

From 9am-3pm on March 14-15 the much-loved Ayrlies Plant Fair returns, bringing together 20 top specialist growers in one of the country’s most stunning private gardens.

Whether people are searching for rare and unusual plants, timeless favourites, or expert gardening advice, this is an event not to be missed.

“This isn’t just a plant sale – it’s a chance to explore an incredible garden, meet passionate growers,

and take home something special,” Jacqueline McConnell, daughter of Ayrlies founder Bev McConnell, says.

A UNIQUE PLANT-SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

The fair is a treasure trove for gardeners, offering everything from hard-to-find perennials and irises propagated by a world-renown breeder to native plants and collector’s varieties people won’t see in big-box stores.

The growers on site aren’t just selling plants – they’re there to share their knowledge, helping people choose the right plants and care for them long after they take them home. Visitors can grab a cup of tea and a homemade treat from

AT AYRLIES PLANT FAIR

the on-site café, then relax to the sound of live music in the beautiful garden setting.

AN EVENT WITH PURPOSE

The $20 ticket price helps maintain the 60-year-old Ayrlies Garden and Wetlands, with proceeds supporting vital conservation work. With plenty of on-site parking included in the ticket, getting there is easy.

People who are going with friends or family are encouraged to consider carpooling as it’s a great way to make the day even more enjoyable.

Ayrlies Garden & Wetland, 125 Potts Road, Whitford – www.ayrlies.co.nz

EVENTS UPCOMING

OUT EAST

COASTAL TWILIGHT MARKET

Friday 1 March, 3-7:30pm, outside The Franklin, Beachlands

The Coastal Twilight Market offers a vibrant evening featuring artisan crafts and gourment food from the fantastic array of stall holders, music and family-friendly entertainment. Chill at The Franklin, Beachlands and get a nice cold beverage while the market is on.

NZ HOLI

Saturday 8 March, 12-7pm, Barry Curtis Park

Holi, the vibrant “Festival of Colours,” celebrates good’s triumph over evil and renewed relationships. This global festival unites communities with music, dance, food, and colourful festivities. A premier cultural event, it will draw a diverse audience eager to experience Indian traditions.

BRIT & EURO CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Sunday 2 March, 10am-3pm, Lloyd Elsmore Park

The Auckland Brit & Euro Classic Car Show is a chance for people of all ages – from littlies to those in their twilight years – to get up close and personal with some of history’s most beautiful vehicles. Hundreds of classic cars will be parked up and ready to be admired with free admission.

BEE GEES TRIBUTE SHOW

Sunday 9 March, 2-6pm, Turanga Creek Winery

Voted “M Resort” Las Vegas most popular show with 2 sold out performances, join Turanga Creek for a Bee Gees Tribute Show. Bring a picnic blanket for an outdoor concert set up and picnic food. Just $30pp – Kids Entry is free.

VINTAGE

roundup

Winecolumnistandconnoisseur DENNISKNILLgiveshisviewsonfour winesfromAstrolable

Compared with the vineyards in Europe, our wine industry is comparatively young. Although the first quality grapes were planted in Hawkes in 1861 by the missionaries, it was not until the mid70’s that Marlborough came into being. Today Marlborough is leading the way with ingenuity and entrepreneurship and long surpassed Hawkes Bay as the hub of our growing wine industry.

One of Marlborough’s success stories is Astrolabe, a family owned winery of two generations led by Simon and Jane Waghorn. Simon is the winemaker and is highly respected for crafting high quality wines. Over the last four decades

Simon has established a benchmark style of sauvignon blanc that reflects the climate, soils and intensity of grapes grown throughout Marlborough.

Here are four Astrolabe sauvignon blanc wines that are making their mark on New Zealand’s dynamic wine scene.

Astrolabe Taihoa Vineyard sauvignon blanc RRP $45 Lively aromatic flavours of fresh citrus that is dry, deep and delicate showing excellent concentration.

Astrolabe Kererengu Coast 2011 sauvignon blanc RRP $38 Crisp and

Tuesday to Sunday

Enjoy $7 house beers everyday at Despensa! Think Corona, Sol, Heineken, Speights....

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fresh with a lingering fruity finish, a finely integrated acidity that’s nicely balanced on the palate.

Astrolabe Awatere Valley sauvignon blanc RRP $31 Fruity flavours that are dry and fresh and a balanced complexity that is well-rounded with an appetisingly crisp finish.

Astrolabe Province Marlborough sauvignon blanc RRP $28 Displaying classic mouth filing fresh citrus flavours that are strong, aromatic and refreshingly dry on the palate.

Celebrate any occasion!

From intimate birthday bashes to grand corporate gatherings, our doors open to a world where every occasion is infused with authentic Indian flavours and a festive vibe

ZANA DELIVERS THE TRUE TASTE OF THAILAND

Many Kiwis love devouring a hot and spicy Thai dish and east Auckland locals are lucky to have an outstanding Thai restaurant in this community in Zana at the Ormiston Town Centre.

Diners are invited to indulge in a symphony of flavours, from aromatic curries to sizzling stir-fries, crafted with care to honour Thailand’s culinary heritage. Zana proudly serves Halal meats and offers refreshing smoothies and juices made from the freshest ingredients.

Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or a captivating dinner, experience a serene escape at Ormiston Town Centre. Zana’s extensive menu features a wide range of dishes with something to satisfy all tastes.

It has numerous entrees including chicken satay, Thai curry puff, spring rolls, money bags, spicy kebab and chicken nibbles.

People after something tasty but not too heavy can choose from four Thai salads, or four soups, including the always popular Tom Yum and Tom Khar Hai. There’s the traditional range of curries as well as the super tasty chicken, lamb or beef sizzler, snapper, stir fries, fried rice, noodles, drinks and extras.

Coconut milk is a key ingredient in many Thai dishes, contributing a rich, creamy sweetness to curries, soups, and desserts. The spices and herbs used in Thai cooking are integral to its unique flavour and include chilli, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil and coriander.

Thai food is popular for its bold, vibrant flavours and its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. People are drawn to its complexity and how each dish can pack a punch with distinct flavours that all harmonise beautifully.

Curries are a big part of Thai cuisine, with variations like green, red, yellow, and massaman, all varying in heat, flavour complexity, and spice content. Thai food is adored for how it manages to combine such powerful ingredients in a way that feels exciting and harmonious.

Ormiston Town Centre has been master-planned as the vibrant heart of Ormiston.

So much more than just a shopping centre, Ormiston Town Centre has been designed for community and convenience, relaxing and getting stuff done, entertainment and easy living.

Ormiston Town Centre has everything you need right on your doorstep – daily essentials or special treats, a coffee on the run or a relaxed meal out, a gym workout or some well-earned time out

At Ormiston Town Centre we’ve created a place that’s yours

It’s your place to be.

240 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush, Auckland

APRICOT ALMOND CAKE

INGREDIENTS

• 6-8 medium apricots, stoned and quartered

• 125g plain flour (1 scant cup)

• 150g ground almonds (1.5 cups)

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 150g granulated sugar (three quarter cup)

• 3 medium eggs (room temperature)

• Zest of 1 lemon, or an orange or a lime!

• 70g melted butter

• 1 tsp good vanilla essence

• Half cup milk

METHOD

Preheat oven to 150°C fan bake (175-180°C without fan). Grease and line a 23cm (9incb) round or square tin with baking paper. In a medium bowl, combine together the plain flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a stand mixer, (you can even use a food processor) whisk the sugar and eggs for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest, butter and vanilla essence. Add the milk and stir in gently.

Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until only just combined. Don’t over mix. Stir in the milk until smooth, then pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Arrange the fruit pieces in a circular pattern pressed into the batter, with a few more on top and sprinkle withsliced almonds if you have some. Bake for 35- 45 minutes until just cooked through. Test with skewer.

Howick Club is pleased to announce the 40th anniversary of the club’s official opening. Events will be held from 1-9 March. All club members and their invited guest are welcome to join in on the weeklong celebration. Details of all events can be found on the Howick club website.

OPENING CEREMONY

Club members and their guest are welcome to come to the opening ceremony of the 40th anniversary week. There will be a historical display of the club dating back to 1985 along with a sausage sizzle for lunch.

MUSIC ON DECK

After the opening ceremony, Dave Shanhun will be playing on the deck. Club members and their guests are welcome to enjoy this talented guitarist and vocalist playing 80s, Acoustic, Classic Hits, Pop, Top 40.

40 YEARS OF HISTORY

Guest speakers will share their memories and experiences from 1985, giving you a glimpse into how the Howick Club has developed into what it is today. Open to club members and their guests.

HAVE A GO DAY

Have a Go Day is a great way for members to explore club sections and get involved. They include darts, snooker, 8 ball, touch rugby, golf, fishing, table tennis, indoor & outdoor bowls, wine tasting, and a lady’s group.

Become A Member

Join the Howick Club for a vibrant community experience with exclusive access to dining, events, and recreational events for all ages!

www.howickclub.co.nz/membership

WHAT WE’RE WATCHING

NOTEWORTHY PODCASTS NETFLIX

• American Murder: Gabby Petito

This three-episode series examines the case of missing young American woman Gabby Petito, which gripped millions of people around the world in 2021. The aspiring YouTube travel vlogger set off on a road trip with fiancé Brian Laundrie, who later turned up back at his Florida home without Gabby. Her body was eventually found in Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming.

DOCPLAY

• Beyond Utopia

This gripping award-winning documentary is directed by Madeleine Gavin and follows South Korean Christian Pastor and human rights activist Seungeun Kim, who risks his life to help North Koreans flee their country’s brutal dictatorship. The film features hidden camera footage shot inside North Korea and the Asian countries through which defectors must travel as part of their gruelling journey to freedom.

TVNZ+

• The Gone Season two of this popular thriller series centres on the fictional Irish detective Theo Richter, played by Richard Flood, who learns Irish crime reporter Aileen Ryan, played by Carolyn Bracken, has vanished. Flood and Kiwi detective Diana Huia, played by Acushla-Tara Kupe, investigate the case in a story set in the town of Mt Affinity.

WATCH READ LISTEN

AVAILABLE FROM HOWICK PAPER PLUS

BLACK HANDS: A FAMILY MASS MURDER

This Stuff podcast shines a spotlight on the murder of five members of the Bain family in Dunedin in Otago in 1994. Killed at the ramshackle property were husband and wife Robin and Margaret Bain and three of their children, Arawa, Laniet, and Stephen. The only survivor was David Bain, who was imprisoned over the murders and later acquitted at a high-profile retrial.

MR ASIA: A FORGOTTEN HISTORY

This new six-part podcast series by the New Zealand Herald and Bird of Paradise Productions explores the story of one of the most infamous crime syndicates in New Zealand’s history, known as ‘Mr Asia’ and which operated during the 1970s. It details the relationship of crime figures Marty Johnstone and Terry Clark and the killing of Johnstone on Clark’s orders.

THE LOST

Radio New Zealand’s Paloma Migone presents a podcast series investigating some of New Zealand’s most mysterious unsolved disappearances, including those of Kirsa Jensen, Judith Yorke, Jim Donnelly, Jefferie Hill, and Francesca Martin. Donnelly lived in Dannemora with wife Tracey Donnelly and their two children when he went missing while working at Glenbrook Steel Mill in Waiuku on June 21, 2004.

WE ALL LIVE HERE

RRP $38, Paper Plus Howick Our Price $32.99

From the bestselling author of Someone Else’s Shoes, Jojo Moyes, 30 years after Lila’s father ran away to Hollywood, he’s back to wreck – or save – her life. Lila Kennedy has a broken marriage, two wayward daughters, a house that’s falling apart, and an elderly stepfather who seems to have quietly moved in. Not to mention a once promising writing career that’s now in freefall. When her real dad, a man she’s barely seen since he ran off to Hollywood 35 years ago, appears on her doorstep wanting to make amends, it feels like the final straw.

NEMESIS

RRP $38, Paper Plus Howick Our Price $32.99

The Sunday Times bestselling hero Orphan X is back in his biggest adventure yet in this novel by Gregg Hurwitz. Evan Smoak is a lone wolf operator. It goes with the territory for a former off-the-books government assassin. He can’t afford to go up against one of the few people he likes and trusts. But Tommy Stojack, a gifted armorer and gunsmith whom Evan relies on, has crossed a line. When Evan confronts him, he comes under attack. Now it’s war.

THE GHAN ADVENTURE

YOU’LL NEVER FORGET

Ever wondered what it’s really like to travel on The Ghan? Step aboard one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys and experience Australia like never before!

Here’s a peek into what it’s like to travel on The Ghan Expedition across the Outback from Darwin to Adelaide, from the breathtaking views to the exceptional service that’ll make you feel right at home.

This luxury, all-inclusive experience is a perfect blend of exceptional onboard service and unforgettable off train experiences, making it one of the world’s top train journeys.

Julia Bozich, head of Australia and South Pacific for House of Travel, recently travelled on the train and shares her experience.

LIFE ON BOARD THE GHAN

The social atmosphere on this journey is one of its highlights, making it especially enjoyable for solo travellers. Rory, our barista-turned-bartender, kept the drinks flowing and the conversation lively from morning to night, a highlight for solo adventurers and groups alike

GOURMET FEAST ON THE TRACKS

I was invited to the dining carriage for lunch and got my first taste of the incredible meals served throughout the journey, each complemented by an extensive wine selection. Each meal

was served à la carte and designed to showcase the local produce of the regions we passed through.

STARRY NIGHTS AND BBQ DELIGHTS

One of the highlights was the outdoor Aussie BBQ, with a live band, at the historic Telegraph Station in Alice Springs. But the highlight of the evening was a short stargazing talk given by an astronomer from the local observatory – a truly memorable moment under the vast Outback sky.

OFF-TRAIN EXPERIENCES

Before the journey, we were invited to choose from a range of experiences at each stop. Once again, I was impressed with the crew’s seamless coordination, managing to disembark 36 carriages (almost 1km of train) and guide everyone to their chosen activities.

GORGE CRUISE IN NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK

I loved my choice of the gorge cruise in Nitmiluk National Park, near Katherine. Gliding along the river as our local guide

shared stories and pointed out ancient rock art, it was hard to grasp the sheer age and history of this land.

WALKING TOUR IN ALICE SPRINGS

In Alice Springs, I chose a walking tour – ideal for walking off some of the incredible food we’d been enjoying. The West MacDonnell Range was breathtakingly beautiful, with endless photo opportunities of the red desert landscape and billabongs.

VISIT TO COOBER PEDY

Our next stop was the fascinating opalmining town of Coober Pedy, where much of the population lives in underground homes. We returned to the train at the Manguri siding, where a bonfire and flowing bubbles awaited us as the sun set over the Outback, a perfect close to our last night aboard.

Ready to explore Australia’s heartland on The Ghan.  Packages for The Ghan Expedition 2025 Darwin to Adelaide, six nights including rail and sightseeing from $5309 per person.

Pepper & Me Level Up Man Grind Salt

Flakes $12.95 Pepper & Me Schmack

Burger Sauce $12.95

LOUIS & MAX louiseandmax.co.nz

Becca Project Room Spray –Wildflower $65 101 HOME 101home.co.nz

All polished up & looking amazing – Free jewellery cleaning @ KENT MORGAN JEWELLERY kentmorgan.co.nz

Xlab Conscious Dress $359 BELLE belle.kiwi

Rosie Shoulder Bag – Merlot $449 101 DESIGN 101home.co.nz

Hollows Bangle – Gold or Silver $99 MÉ THE LABEL – methelabel.co.nz

EOS Melbaa available in blush or white $239.90

SHOES ON PICTON shoesonpicton.co.nz

BONITA ARTISTRY

BEAUTY MEETS AUTHENTICITY

Founded on the philosophy that makeup should enhance – not mask – your natural features, Bonita Artistry is redefining the standard of beauty by celebrating individuality, confidence, and self-expression.

THE BONITA ARTISTRY DIFFERENCE

At Bonita Artistry, we believe makeup should be a reflection of who you truly are. Unlike traditional beauty services that focus on heavy transformations, our approach is about elevating your natural beauty in a way that aligns with your personal style and complexion.

Whether you love a soft, radiant glow or a more defined yet effortless look, our expert artists customise every application to harmonise with your unique features, skin tone, and preferences.

WE SPECIALISE IN:

• Naturally enhanced makeup – subtle yet striking looks that complement your true beauty

• Personalised hair styling – elegant, effortless, and tailored to your vibe

• Special event and bridal services –bringing out your most radiant self for

life’s biggest moments

• Editorial and commercial work –collaborating with brands to create impactful visuals

• Mobile beauty services – a traveling team of skilled artists, bringing beauty directly to you

MEET THE FOUNDER: A VISION ROOTED IN PASSION

Bonita Artistry was born from the personal journey of our founder, Sarai Elora, a passionate artist who understands the power of feeling seen and celebrated.

Growing up, the struggle of not fully connecting with cultural roots and beauty standards led to the creation of a space where everyone could feel empowered in their own skin.

With a background in artistry, a love for self-expression, and a commitment to inclusivity, Bonita Artistry was founded to bridge the gap between professional beauty services and a deeply personal, transformative experience.

MORE THAN JUST MAKEUP – A MOVEMENT

Beauty is deeply personal, and Bonita

Artistry is more than a service; it’s a movement toward self-love, selfexpression, and confidence.

We celebrate diversity, honour individuality, and create looks that feel like ‘you’ – just elevated.

• Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a model, a brand seeking artistry for your next campaign, or someone who simply wants to look and feel their best, Bonita Artistry is here to bring your vision to life.

LET’S CREATE MAGIC TOGETHER

Follow us on social media for beauty inspiration, behind-the-scenes moments, and client transformations: Instagram: @BonitaArtistry Website: www.BonitaArtistry.com For bookings and inquiries, reach out today! Because your beauty deserves to be seen, honored, and celebrated.

Strengthen, recover, thrive: Expert Pilates in Botany

Looking to improve strength, recover from injury, or prevent future issues?

Peak Pilates and Physiotherapy in Botany offers expert-led classes designed to help you move better and feel stronger. With fully trained Pilates instructors, you can trust you’re in expert hands. Peak Pilates and Physiotherapy specialises in rehabilitation and injury prevention, using tailored movements to enhance mobility and build core stability.

Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to refine your technique, they offer introductory assessments to help you find the right approach for your body. In addition to Pilates, their Botany location also offers physiotherapy services, including pelvic floor therapy, helping clients regain confidence and improve overall wellbeing.

Pilates is a low-impact exercise system that focuses on strengthening muscles, improving posture, flexibility, and overall body awareness. Its health benefits include improved core strength, increased flexibility, better posture, enhanced balance and co-ordination, stress relief, muscle tone and endurance, rehabilitation and injury prevention, and improved breathing.

People who practice Pilates will also benefit from increased mind-body connection and better weight management. While Pilates is not as intense as cardio exercises, it helps improve overall muscle tone, which can contribute to higher metabolism and weight management.

Take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced body. Whether you’re new to exercise or an experienced athlete, Pilates offers a variety of benefits for both physical and mental health. Visit peakpilates.co.nz to book your introductory session today.

318 Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood

Phone 09 274 6000

Email botany@peakpilates.co.nz www.peakpilates.co.nz

TOP TIPS FOR BETTER SLEEP

MICHELLE KEENAN empowers people and organisations to achieve optimal wellbeing by providing customised wellness coaching programmes tailored to their unique goals.

Are you one of the 25 per cent of Kiwis who have a chronic sleep problem? It can be absolutely debilitating for many, with negative impacts on relationships and quality of life, and increased risk of heart disease, depression, and weight gain. Both quality and quantity of sleep are important, with seven to nine hours being recommended. If you’re averaging less than this, read on for my top tips to getting a great night’s sleep and waking up feeling fresh and focused.

> SET YOUR SLEEP SCHEDULE. Aim to have a similar bedtime each night, and a similar waking time each morning. Our body clocks need routine to release the right hormones at the right times to help us go to sleep at night, and to feel alert and productive during the day.

> GET DAYLIGHT EXPOSURE FIRST THING. If possible, spend 10 minutes outdoors in the morning light. If it’s still dark when you get up, turn on bright overhead lights, and get some real daylight as soon as you can.

> MOVE YOUR BODY. You could combine number three with a 15-minute (or more) walk, or perhaps you prefer to get on your yoga mat or hit the gym. Whether you do it in the morning or later in the day, daily exercise has been shown to significantly improve sleep for chronic insomniacs.

> SLOW DOWN IN THE EVENING. Aim for quieter, more relaxing activities for 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Turn your phone off, dim the lights, and do something that settles your nervous system. Reading, journaling, gentle yoga, or meditation are all great choices.

> LAST, BUT DEFINITELY NOT LEAST, MANAGE YOUR STRESS. Change what you can that’s causing stress in your life, and learn techniques like mindfulness to help you settle a busy mind when it’s preventing you from dropping off into dreamland.

www.michellekeenan.com

GREY LYNN | PARNELL | MILLWATER | ST JOHNS | ST HELIERS

COCKLE BAY’S PARKS, RESERVES AND BEACHES

„ By DAVID MALLOWES

We’re very fortunate in east Auckland to have many beautiful parks and reserves. This walk features 20 in Cockle Bay so walk part or all at your leisure, an adventure for children too. 6km or 8km, hilly, fast walkers about one hour and 15 minutes, slower maybe two hours.

Set out from the site of the Howick Markets on Picton Street next to Hancocks Cafe, head east to Cook Street. You’ll loop through Paparoa Park down to Cockle Bay, over to Howick Beach with an optional detour, and back up to Howick Village for lunch or a coffee.

You’ll pass by or through Howick Village Green (opposite the start), Hawthornden Reserve, Evelyn Park, Bert Wilson Park, a grass walkway from Bemrose Place, Paparoa Park, Bella’s Park, John

Gill Park, Cockle Bay Domain, Cockle Bay Reserve, Cockle Bay, Cockle Bay playground, Tainui Reserve, Waikiteroa Reserve, the Nun’s Walk, Star of the Sea Historic Place, Howick Beach, Nixon Centennial Park, Howick Library, Garden of Memories, and Fencible Walk Park.

Toilets – Howick Village, Cockle Bay, Howick Beach. Playgrounds – John Gill Park, Cockle Bay,  Selwyn Road Nixon Centennial Park. Dogs – Yes, all dogfriendly, must be on-leash.

Volunteering – Would you like to assist from time to time maintaining some local parks and reserves? Volunteers meet weekly and some Saturdays to improve and replant the Page Point and MacDonald Walkways and the McLeay Reserve bush in Mellons Bay. Visit the Facebook page ‘MellonsBayWalkways’ for more details or phone 0275 277 667.

The Howick Tramping Club are very welcoming - www.sporty.co.nz/howicktramping/Home, meet on the third Wednesday of each month at Pakuranga Croquet Club rooms.

There’s also an excellent group led by Barry Wood who work weekly vastly improving the Cockle Bay Beach walkways, Facebook page ‘Cockle Bay Residents and Ratepayers’.

To see details and printable maps, visit www.facebook.com/ walksouteastauckland, or use the QR code to an online route map.

CLUB SUPPORTING CARDIAC SURVIVORS

The Cardiac Club meets fortnightly on Thursday mornings at Highland Park Community House in Aviemore Drive. Members enjoy morning tea, activities including guest speakers and exercises, and time for shared stories and enjoying empathetic and supportive company.

The club’s Gay Gallagher says when people first experience a “heart event”, it’s not unusual to be shocked and fearful.

“There’s a lot of information to understand. Suddenly, life may change with limits to what you’re used to doing. As a member of the Cardiac Club says, ‘it’s like being a possum in the headlights!’ This is when the Cardiac Club becomes a wonderful support network, offering a safe place to share experiences, concerns, knowledge and to find reassurance ‘there is a future’.”

A local group is dedicated to helping people who suffer heart-related medical issues

Gallagher says the future has been very fulfilling for the club’s retiring leaders. Joyce Norton has co-ordinated it for the last 25 years and Avis Pointon is stepping back as treasurer after 24 years.

“These ladies experienced their first ‘heart events’ over 25 years ago,” she says.“Joyce, the first point of contact for the group, is renowned for her genuine kindness and interest in Cardiac Club members, especially when new members reach out. The club would like to thank both women for their commitment and care.”

Gallagher says the club caters for people aged 44-95, and for those from diverse backgrounds.

“Such diversity ads to the richness of the club. Jean Walker, who first had a heart attack in 1999, was advised to

connect with a support group. Her initial response was reluctance as she didn’t wish to spend her time with ‘people moaning and groaning about their health!’

“However, she describes her involvement with the club as an eyeopener, meeting such positive thinkers, and ‘just the nicest group of people. It is this, plus the laughter, reassurance and acceptance that has kept her active in the group for 25 years. And like so many in the group, she’s ‘young at heart’. The newest members in the group also comment on these features of it.”

The club acknowledges the “wonderful support” of Highland Park Community House manager Jennie McCormick. If you would like to get involved with the Cardiac Club phone 021 145 1574.

Joyce Norton

Join Holly as she searches east Auckland for love and connection.

IN WHICH HOLLY GOES TO THE MOVIES

I don’t like Nicole Kidman. Couldn’t really tell you why, Reader – there’s just something about her that annoys me. I’m not the only one. A friend feels the same, and her husband admits a similar distaste for Sarah Jessica Parker. Another finds Will Smith odious, for no particular reason.

Naturally, Nicole herself doesn’t (and shouldn’t) care about my opinion, but try as I might to be fair to her, she just gives me the icks. On an ick scale of one to 10 (one being people who forget to say “thank you” and 10 being presidential allies who throw Nazi salutes) for me, Nicole Kidman is a solid four.

This being the case, I was in two minds about my recent date’s movie choice –Babygirl starring Kidman and directed by Halina Reijn. I was curious, however, to see how the subject matter would be handled. BDSM tends to get mixed treatment in cinema.

The ubiquitous Fifty Shades trilogy is the example that many people would think of first. It’s a terrible one, because the relationship portrayed is abuse, dressed up as romance and kink. Let’s face it –Christian Grey is a creep and a stalker who only gets away with it because he’s rich and hot.

Other films, such as Secretary (2002) or Sanctuary (2022) handle the subject in

better and more original ways. I hoped Babygirl might join these ranks.

We settled into our seats at the Monterey. The cinema wasn’t crowded, a dozen people in front of us and another couple right at the back. A trio of female friends sat almost directly behind us. Since we had plenty of time before the movie started, my date ducked out to the concession stand to grab a beer.

Reader, have you ever tried not to eavesdrop on people and failed? I couldn’t (and wouldn’t) tell you who these women were, since they were behind me. I will, however, recount their conversation, since I was the topic.

“Do you think this will be dirtier than a Holly column?” asked one. “I hope so!” laughed another. The third friend chimed

in. She reckoned that the writer of Sex And The Suburbs wasn’t even a woman, but a man. She’d bet that Holly, Harry or whoever they were was “just some journalist”, probably not even an east Auckland local.

“No, she is!” interrupted one of the others. Apparently, someone she knew had figured out who Holly is – a younger Chinese Kiwi woman they’d met through their netball club, who loved writing. “I don’t think so,” one of the other voices said.

Holly must be, she claimed, a suburban cougar, probably someone they’ve seen a dozen times at Piggy and never even noticed, or someone they’ve driven past in the early hours of the morning, emerging from a party at a certain central Howick address.

Here, my date returned, and I was able to make conversation with him to cover theirs. After all, as the saying goes – what other people think about you is none of your business. Hopefully, believing this is something Nicole Kidman and I share...

Read Holly’s full column here

Email holly@times.co.nz

Yours in love,

EXOTIC CAULERPA –AVOID SPREADING IT

Exotic caulerpa is a fast-growing seaweed that is threatening Auckland’s coastal areas. It has been found in parts of Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Islands and Coromandel.

Keep your boat and gear free of any seaweed before moving locations:

• Avoid anchoring or disturbing the seafloor in infested areas: caulerpa can get caught up in anchors, chains or fishing and diving gear and be accidentally taken to a new area.

• Each time before you move: check the anchor, chain and fishing or dive equipment for any attached seaweed.

• If you find any seaweed, remove it, bag it and bin it onshore. If you can’t do this, return it to where it came from; do not move it to a new location.

If you plan to visit the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana, you need to be aware of restrictions in place to help stop the spread of the invasive seaweed exotic caulerpa.

Botany Hunting and Fishing marketing manager James Speirs says the store will donate used fishing gear to keen local youngsters.

Donated fishing gear to inspire the next generation

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

An east Auckland business is working to inspire local youngsters to put down their device, get outside, and pick up a fishing rod.

Botany Hunting and Fishing is calling for donations of used fishing gear.

The store spruces up the gear to then distribute to keen local youngsters aged 12 and under for free as part of its ‘Fish for Everyone’ initiative.

“The idea behind it is we, as fishermen, accumulate gear over the years and end up with a pile of stuff in the corner of our shed doing nothing,” the store’s fishing manager Zac Andrews says.

“Instead of it sitting there collecting dust, it would be really good to get it into the hands of kids, especially those who would love to get into it but can’t quite muster it.”

and it’s just to give kids the gear to use to go fishing. It doesn’t matter if it’s old as long as it’s in a functional sort of state.”

The store’s marketing manager, James Speirs, says several other local businesses, including Top Catch at Half Moon Bay Marina and Big Fish, have “jumped on board” to collect donated used gear.

“We’re looking at doing a little fishing event for the start of the next school holidays. Somewhere local where the kids can come along and those ones who don’t have the gear, we’ll have gear for them.

“Depending on how much we have we will be able to offer them some gear to use on the day and then take with them.”

For more information, check out ourauckland.nz/stopthespread

Andrews says the store has been collecting fishing rods and reels as well as some tackle.

“We’ve collected a few from some of our suppliers who have donated it.

“There’s a whole pile from customers and staff

Once the store is ready to start distributing the fishing gear, youngsters will be able to collect it from Botany Hunting and Fishing, located in Te Koha Road.

People can keep an eye on its Facebook page for an announcement.

In the meantime, people are also welcome to drop off unwanted fishing gear at the store.

Times photo

Call for entrants for Fun Run Walk

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

East Auckland locals seeking a fun afternoon blending socialising and exercise are encouraged to enter the Rotary Club of Highbrook’s 2025 Fun Run Walk.

The fun annual charity event is being staged in Highbrook on March 12 and draws hundreds of participants and spectators.

It’s in its 12th year with funds raised to be donated to the Middlemore Foundation and Totara Hospice. Last year’s event raised more than $20,000 for charity.

People can take part with a team or individually and they don’t need to work in Highbrook to enter, club president Stephen Passmore says.

“Companies come down

and maybe bring a gazebo and make an event of it.

“We provide a warm-up with a local physio and then there’s a 10km run, a 5km run, and a 5km walk. All the entry fees go to charity.”

The circuit covers a 5km loop around Highbrook Park and provides something of a cross-countrystyle race.

People who enter the 10km race will complete two circuits and each team is comprised of four people.

“People of any age can enter and we get a lot of businesses putting in teams,” Passmore says.

“Our major sponsor is Goodman Property. There are prizes for the winning team in the 10km run, the first person back in the

10km, and the winning team in the 5km run.

“We also have a ‘Healthy Hearts’ run. They come and walk the 1km and it’s for people looking to get fit and achieve a target.”

Passmore says the event is inclusive and while the race is timed, not everyone who enters will be focusing on how fast they complete the distance. “We have plenty of people who walk it and a few even bring their dogs along.”

The $30 entry fee includes a sausage sizzle and refreshments. The event is from 5.30pm on Wednesday, March 12, at Highbrook Park in Pukekiwiriki Place. The race starts at 5.45pm.

Register by February 28 at www.highbrookrotary. org.nz to take part.

Howick Tyres & Alignments

Michael Johnson and Buster with the team.

All welcome at inclusive, friendly football club

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

The Bucklands Beach Association Football Club (BBAFC) prides itself on being a friendly club that turns no one away, which may help to explain how it’s got 1200 players on its books.

With the new season approaching, the club’s calling for players to register.

Its teams play at Rogers Park in Eastern Beach or at Lloyd Elsmore Park in Pakuranga.

Club president Rachel Penney says it’s dedicated to providing a range of programmes for players of all ages and skill levels, ensuring they have an equal opportunity to improve, excel, and cultivate a deep love for football.

“At the heart of BBAFC is our First Team and U23s, a dynamic group of young men who serve as role models for aspiring footballers,” Penney says.

“Led by the remarkable Neil Finnigan, the First Team includes Sander Waterland, our director of

football, who’s clinched the Golden Boot for three consecutive years at the Conference level.

“The team is composed of many homegrown BBAFC players and long-serving members.

“This year, the U23s are under the guidance of Tony Gillion, who’s committed to developing these players into future First Team stars.”

Club vice-president David Pasco says it does “the little stuff” to ensure its players enjoy the expe-

rience.

“It’s not all about that game of football and winning. It’s about making friends and parents on the sidelines supporting their kids and having that sort of community identity.

“We’ve got one team and some of the guys are dads in the 40s or 50s and they’ve got their 18-, 19-, 20-year-old sons in the same team. That’s cool.”

The club’s grassroots programme for children aged five-eight years old is on Wednesday afternoons.

Its new Football Development Academy operates up to three days a week during school terms and focuses on honing technical and tactical skills.

The club’s involvement in the Northern Region Football (NRF) competition spans from championship level down, from ninthgrade teams through the senior ranks and over-40s teams, Penney says.

“We have junior and youth and boys and girls teams who compete in the NRF league, travelling to face other clubs with similar abilities,” Penney says.

“Additionally, tournaments and festivals are a highlight, giving players the opportunity to showcase their skills in a celebratory environment.”

The club’s expanded its football programmes for girls and women. Young girls can join girls-only teams as early as the fifth grade.

New senior women players can join the club’s community team without paying the club fee.

Register online at www. bbafc.org.nz.

David Pasco, left, and Rachel Penney encourage new players to register with Bucklands Beach Association Football Club. Times photo

New leadership of school 2025 netball programme

Howick College’s netball programme is in safe hands as former head coach of the premier-one team, Adelita Sotutu, steps back to focus on her expanded role as the school’s director of sport.

With increasing participation across all sports at the college, Sotutu’s shift allows her to oversee the continued growth and development of all codes, ensuring the success of Howick College’s broader sports programme.

Stepping up as the new director of netball is Tania Tuinukuafe, an experienced and highly respected coach within the programme.

Tuinukuafe has played a key role in Howick College’s recent netball successes, serving as head coach of the premier-two team, which won its competition last year, and as assistant coach of the premier-one team, which claimed the Auckland Secondary Schools Championship, Upper North Island Secondary Schools

Championship, and New Zealand Secondary Schools Championship respectively in 2024.

With 27 years of coaching experience, including at Saint Kentigern College, and St Peter’s School at Cambridge, Tuinukuafe is well placed to uphold the strong legacy of Howick College netball.

Now in her fifth year of coaching at the school, she also oversees the Howick College Netball Academy, which launched in 2024 and has expanded this year into a year-long programme supporting Year 9 and 10 players.

“My greatest contribu-

tion has been the mana I uphold for myself and the nurturing, strengthening, and uplifting of the mana of those I work with – students, players, whānau, and colleagues alike,” she says.

Tuinukuafe is committed to ensuring that Howick College netball continues to thrive.

“I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and accept it with respect. I look forward to working alongside our players, their whānau, and the wider netball community to uphold and strengthen the programme for the future.”

Sotutu is confident the

programme will continue to flourish under Tuinukuafe’s direction.

“Howick College netball has gone from strength to strength, and I have no doubt that under Tania’s leadership it will continue to thrive,” says Sotutu.

“Her experience, dedication, and passion for the game make her the perfect person to guide our programme forward, and I look forward to seeing our players continue to develop and succeed.”

With a strong leadership team in place, Howick College netball is well positioned for continued highlevel achievements.

Howick College netball players and coaches, from left, Zermahnia Manu (Year 13), Ayva-Leigh Gelling (Y9), Tania Tuinukuafe, Adelita Sotutu, Jin Leaunoa (Y10), and Cloe Pratt (Y13).

Photo supplied

PUZZLE TIME

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8174

ACROSS

1. A very bad stand-in! (4). 7. How the drunkard answered when asked this? (4,1,4). 8. Dopes and weakens (4). 9. A girl a month (4). 10. Therefore repeated “Not very good” (2-2). 11. Reversing too, one notices (4). 14. Set about you - and on the outskirts of London (3,4,3). 16. Looking down on them, or possibly impartial about (4,3,3). 19. Bananas are popular with many animals at the zoo (4). 22. Not a bark from a small animal! (4). 24. Blooming wine! (4). 25. Again it is a back row (4). 26. Give credit to, which is characteristc (9). 27. Not all of his lefts land (4).

DOWN

1. The vessels are few, the sea’s rough (5). 2. Manage to catch a second in the wood (5). 3. By no means a great time (6). 4. The dope took the woman to Switzerland (6). 5. A twit holding gently things that shouldn’t be held (4). 6. It’s not I that can’t get on with the child in it (9). 12. Free from the crate, it goes off (9). 13. Stop and spring (4). 15. Revolve round the act (4). 17. By this, the man again gets near to (6). 18. Since the collections are one’s possessions (6). 20. The ones, ourselves, who let the fool in (5). 21. He’s always ribbed (5). 23. Very tired, it is to be assumed (4).

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8174

ACROSS

1. Musical instrument (4)

7. Vegetable (9)

8. Dry (4)

9. Insect (4)

10. Fat (4)

11. Measure (4)

14. Charge (10)

16. Misleading (10)

19. Orderly (4)

22. School (England)(4)

DOWN

1. Vagrant (5)

2. Man’s name (5)

3. Liqueur (6)

4. Free (6)

5. Repast (4)

6. Right (9)

12. Childish (9)

13. Rear (4)

15. Try (4)

17. Frolic (6)

Admin Rescue can assist with all your bookkeeping needs:

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WINDOW CLEANING

Maintenance Assistant Job Description (PFT)

Job title: Maintenance Assistant Reports to: Facilities Manager Contract: 35 hours/week, early start time/leave time preferred. Salary: up to $53,000/year, commensurate with experience. Help keep Howick Historical Village in the best shape of its life! This role is perfect for someone who is handy, who is retired or about to retire, or is looking for a position in a non-pressured environment. You will be part of the team responsible for general maintenance of an extensive collections of early settler history buildings in New Zealand. For more about the role, please see: www.historicalvillage.org.nz/jobs. Closes 5pm Monday 24 Feb 2025

Property Assistant / Labourer

We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed Property Assistant / Labourer to join our Property Team. This is a permanent, full-time position of 40 hours per week, 52 weeks of the year. For more details about the position and how to apply, please email employment@ pakuranga.school.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

PART TIME LANDSCAPE GARDENER

We are looking for someone who is experienced in the above, to assist with maintaining our 2 acre property in Whitford. It would entail mowing lawns, gardening, trimming and general property maintenance. All necessary tools supplied. You would need to be fit, healthy, have a good understanding of plants and an appreciation of maintaining gardening equipment. You would be required to work 2 x 5 hour days per week. No weekend work.

Part-Time Contract Salesperson Role Available

Plymouth Publishing is a division of Alpine Print providing not-for-profit organisations throughout New Zealand with quarterly and annual publications. This role would suit mature individuals that enjoy sales or customer service, seeking flexible work hours with the ability to work from home, earn excellent remuneration, and support community organisations.

The ideal candidate will be a people person with excellent communication skills, proficiency in using computers and email, and enjoy helping community organisations. To discuss this opportunity further, please email your CV and a brief cover letter to sales@plymouthpublishing.co.nz

PUBLIC NOTICES

DRIVING MISS DAISY FRANCHISE FOR SALE IN PAKURANGA

This is a going concern Franchise with four cars and an established turnover. If you are looking for a new challenge and wish to make a difference in your community, join one of NZ’s fastest growing franchises. Enquire online today at www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz/buy/

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

QUICK NO. 8174

Across - 1, Tuba. 7, Courgette. 8, Arid. 9, Gnat. 10, Lard. 11, Pint. 14, Accusation. 16, Fallacious. 19, Tidy. 22, Eton. 24, Veto. 25, Sank. 26, Albatross. 27, Yell. Down - 1, Tramp. 2, Brian. 3, Cognac. 4, Gratis. 5, Meal. 6, Starboard. 12, Infantile. 13, Tail. 15, Test. 17, Cavort. 18, Obtuse. 20, Image. 21, Yokel. 23, Near.

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.

SITUATIONS VACANT

ATTENDANCE LIAISON

Part Time

Howick College is a school with high expectations where personal excellence and outstanding educational outcomes for our students are a shared value between students, sta and our community.

We have a new and exciting opportunity that focuses on analysis and identification of trends to enhance student attendance. The ideal candidate is someone who understands the important link between school attendance and academic achievement. Other qualities include, but not limited to, excellent organisation and communication skills, analytical skills and solutions-based thinking, strong interpersonal skills and positive working relationships.

This role is term time only, 30 hours per week (neg).

Please send CV, cover letter and completed application form to employment@howick.school.nz by 4pm Tuesday 4 March 2025.

ARTS COORDINATOR

Howick College is a school with high expectations where personal excellence and outstanding educational outcomes for our students are a shared value between students, sta and our community. We have an exciting opportunity for a passionate supporter of the Arts to join our well-established Expressive Arts team with administration and other behind the scenes work. We are looking for someone who has the following skills:

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail

• A passion for the Expressive Arts and education

• Excellent communication skills and interpersonal abilities

• Experience in event coordination and promotion.

CRYPTIC NO. 8174

Across - 1, Vice. 7, Like a shot. 8, Saps. 9, June. 10, So-so. 11, Sees (rev.). 14, The E-a-st E-nd. 16, F-rom the air. 19, Nuts. 22, S-cow. 24, Rose. 25, Ti-er (rev.). 26, Attribute. 27, (h)Is-le(fts). Down - 1, V-ases 2, Cop-s-e. 3, Minute. 4, Gen-Eva. 5, As-p-s. 6, C-on-son-an’t. 12, Ex-tricate. 13, Stem. 15, Turn. 17, He-re-by. 18, As-sets. 20, U-nit-s. 21, Serge. 23, Worn.

This role is 30 hours per week and is predominantly term time only. Hours of work to be negotiated with some flexibility for events that occur outside of school hours.

Please send your CV, cover letter and completed application form from our website: www.howickcollege.school.nz/career-opportunities to: employment@howick.school.nz by 4pm Tuesday 4 March 2025

NOMINATE A

If you know someone who’s doing amazing things in our community please email some information about them, with a photo, to chrish@times.co.nz. The award is sponsored by New World Howick and recipients will receive a $50 New World gift card and will be featured in our new digital publication.