Times January 17 2025

Nadine

Lucy

Mohit

Harman Khosa

Medical advocate named in New Year Honours List

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Denise Astill is dedicating her life to raising awareness of the risks anti-seizure medications pose to pregnant women and their unborn babies.

The Bucklands Beach resident has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2025 New Year Honours List for services to the prevention of foetal anticonvulsant syndromes.

It’s an issue her family knows well, as her twin 23-year-old daughters have Foetal Valproate Spectrum Disorder.

“I asked the right questions of two health care professionals and was ill advised,” Astill says.

“Hence they now have the syndrome and will be affected for the rest of their lives.”

Astill is chief executive of Foetal Anti-Convulsant Syndrome New Zealand (FACSNZ), a not-for-profit organisation she founded in 2015 and which provides support, awareness and prevention services for

foetal anticonvulsant syndromes.

In 2016 she helped ACC develop the ACC FACS Prevention Team, which has since circulated prevention booklets for healthcare professionals and consumers.

Her role at FACSNZ, which she’s undertaken since 2015 in a voluntary capacity, involves attending educational sessions at schools and support groups, arranging conferences, speaking at medical events and attending ACC reviews.

Among her key achievements is successfully advocating for warning labels for pregnant women on boxes of the medication Epilim in 2017.

Astill says people may be prescribed anti-seizure medication for epilepsy, mental health conditions, migraine or general pain.

“If you get pregnant, and you’re of child-bearing potential, and are on one of these medications and it crosses the placenta, it can affect the baby while you’re pregnant.

“The baby can be born with a lifelong disability.”

She says it was “very exciting” to learn she’d be in the New Year Honours List.

“It came out of the blue. It was absolutely fantastic and a real acknowledgment of the work I’ve done.”

Astill’s role is focused on education, awareness, prevention and support for people affected by foetal anticonvulsant syndromes.

She says she’s driven by a desire to prevent other people from experiencing what her family has.

“People aren’t told their medication can be a risk to the baby they’re carrying.

“They should be told that even prior to getting pregnant and prior to starting the medication.

“If I can prevent one other family from having to go through the heartache our whanau has been through, I will have made a difference.

“It’s a moral thing for me. I couldn’t sit there and know that others are affected, or could be, and I could make a change.”

Robert Johnstone & Kevin Kelleher

Bucklands Beach local Denise Astill has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Times photo

NEWS ROOM

Editor Chris Harrowell 027 404 1512 chrish@times.co.nz

PJ (Phil) Taylor 021 644 923 phil@times.co.nz

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Community Comments

Check out a few of the latest comments from our socials below. Want more? Dive into the conversation at www.facebook.com/timesonlinenz

PERSON SUFFERS SPINAL INJURY JUMPING OFF WHARF (Times, January 2):

Amanda Napier

There are multiple signs saying not to jump off but people are always taking the risk.

David Mallowes

Has there been discussion re closing this wharf? Very rarely used by boats. St John are often called to. Whatever the future, this wharf is a historic feature of Maraetai. More railings?

Matthew Brajkovich

People do silly things and this wharf was closed a few years back for works

and people have been injured themselves off it for decades.

COUNCIL HINTS AT FURTHER RATES INCREASES (Times, January 2):

Matthew Brajkovich

Really who would have thought. Even after the slash and burn budget cuts, how bad is it? $10 mil is small, $5 a head.

Anthony Littlejohn Poll tax time in Auckland?

Everyone living here needs to pay for this.

Stephen Huckle I’m paying way too much

for the services I don’t use. And my rubbish collection is extra fee. Water has more than doubled per month.

YOUNG FOOTBALL STARS EYE FUTURE WITH WELLINGTON PHOENIX (Times, January 5):

Nick Leack

That’s a fantastic achievement, well done.

Kathryn Kelly

Well done Joe, the boys will miss you I’m sure! Good luck.

Roscoe Mcgahan

Congratulations to the both of them.

DISCOVER A HOME

AWAY FROM HOME

National accolade shared

„ By PJ TAYLOR

Reay Neben accepts her King’s Service Medal (KSM) on behalf of not only herself but also husband Brian, their family, the east Auckland community, and the “thousands” of people who have worked for them over five decades.

She received the KSM for services to print media and the community in the New Year Honours.

When the Times visited Reay and Brian Neben on December 31, when the Honours were made public, they were receiving many messages of congratulations from well-wishers here in east Auckland and across the country.

“It’s not an honour just for me,” says Reay. “It’s for all the people – family have been involved forever, and all the thousands of people who have worked for us, who have been passionate as well about this community, because it wouldn’t be anything without everybody – all our delivery kids, too.

“There was an expectation they were doing it for the community. The team that worked with us gave us that.

“It’s 52 years of loving both things – the community and media – I was lucky enough to share those.”

Brian says: “All the journalists, the characters we’ve had down the years, all those people were so loyal to us, and we appreciated every bit of it.”

The past few years, especially from the Covid era, have been tough for Reay and Brian. They’ve both had serious health issues to contend with, and then had to close Times Media last April, a casualty of the economic downturn.

Brian says: “One of the hardest things we’ve ever had to do was walking away from the business.

“We have received so many messages from people in this area when we closed down expressing their sorrow.

“When we got word, Reay and I sat down and thought we really can’t accept that [the honour]. Our company’s just gone under.

“So, Reay wrote and said we feel we may not be able to do it,” Brian says. “They wrote back and said of course you can, and we want you to. That to us was so important. I felt bad say-

ing to Reay I don’t think we can do this.”

Reay says: “They can’t take away 52 years.

“What’s pleasing is of all people, it always had to be Bo Burns to follow on,” Reay says, of the new owner of Times Media, who resurrected the news media business last April.

“What she did is bring it back in print [in August]. The advertisers realised when it was gone what they had lost.

“They [readers] love it now and it’s a new genera tion of people loving it.”

Reay and her first hus band, Roger Smith, started the Howick and Pakuranga Times in 1972, as Auckland east of the Tamaki River was about to increase sig nificantly in population.

It’s remembered as “a nappy valley” in the 1970s, and old Auckland expres sion.

“It really was. There was a Howick Post that covered Howick, but we realised there was going to be an eastern city. So, we had to make it Howick and Pakuranga. Had to embrace that,” says Reay.

“We started with true news-

paper philosophy – hard news – and it was the perfect time because it [the area] was changing.

“The first papers we delivered were to 8000 homes, and that included Beachlands and Maraetai.”

Reay is remembered delivering the Times with daughter Emma in the pushchair.

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

HOWICK & REMUERA

Reay Neben, KSM

California fires impact Kiwis

„ By PJ TAYLOR

Musicians – Justin Devereux, Ted Brown, and Greg Johnson – have corresponded with the Times this week and their accounts are hard reading, as has been the viewing of all the images of the catastrophe.

Undoubtedly, people in this area and country are feeling for Los Angeles, a sister city of Auckland.

Ted Brown, a guitar player who has worked a lot with Los Angeles-based New Zealand singer-songwriter Greg Johnson, lived in Pakuranga when growing up and studied at Edgewater College. It’s where he learned to play guitar.

On Sunday, Brown posted: “Thanks to everyone who has messaged us to make sure we’re safe.

“Our house is covered in ash and the fire (just for now) is still a couple of

New Zealanders based in Los Angeles with east Auckland connections have communicated the horrors they’ve witnessed of the destructive fires in California over the past week.

miles away. Some friends have not been so lucky –heart-breaking.”

Brown then told the Times: “I’m in line at the pharmacy with three people who lost their homes in the Palisades. We’re still concerned we’re going to be in the evacuation zone.

“This has been a scary time. I’ve lived in West LA for 23 years and never seen fires like this,” Brown says.

“We’re used to fire season, usually fuelled by the

bone-dry Santa Ana Winds we get October to January.

“But these were different, super strong gusts that could knock you off your feet. The fires just exploded through the Pacific Palisades, about four miles from here.

“My favourite hiking trail, Temescal Canyon Park, is gone. Restaurants I visit regularly in Malibu with my family.

“But we’ve been lucky, still about a mile out-

side the evacuation zone, although we’re packed and ready to leave our home if we’re told to,” Brown says.

“LA is really a lot of different cities, spread out over a large geographic area, so the Eaton fire and the Palisades fire are a long way apart.

“But Angelenos have been amazing, and the sense of giving and community is incredible.

“Donation centres have popped up and been inundated, food trucks are 100 per cent free – people are coming together to help their neighbours and strangers alike.

“But 5200 structures destroyed in the Palisades alone, thousands more in Alta Dena. Not sure how we come back from this, probably the worst fires in California history and they’re still burning.

“I guess we’ll just all be dealing with it a day at a time,” says Brown.

Johnson, the award-winning Kiwi musician who has been based in Los Angeles for the best part of this century, played a concert at Uxbridge Arts and Culture in Howick just under a year ago.

He posted on social media of the fires in and around Los Angeles: “Truly apocalyptic couple of days here.

“Multiple good friends

have lost everything, but thankfully we are all alive and safe. Our apartment is right by the ‘t’ in Santa Monica on the map. Thanks for all the dear friends that have checked in. Love to you all. LA is many things but dull it is never.”

Justin Devereux, of Howick, who moved with wife Maria and son Oliver to Los Angeles two years ago, told the Times they’ve been “humbled by the amount of people checking in on us”.

“Luckily, we’re back in New Zealand visiting our parents for Christmas and the holidays. But it’s been an anxious and upsetting time,” says Devereux.

“It’s hard to believe really, and it’s been quite emotional watching it unfold here.

“I just can’t believe the scale of it all and how much iconic history has been lost. And there’s nothing we can do but check in on friends and our cat Sophie, who’s at an animal hotel nearby.

“Maria and I were at the Fourth of July parade at the Palisades last year. And now the high school and the whole town is gone. It was such as a beautiful place and unique to Los Angeles.

“Art deco buildings and grand mid-century homes amidst a lush coastal backdrop bathing in the sun-

shine and Pacific breeze,” Devereux says.

“It was the kind of place we really wanted to live in, and now it’s gone. It’ll never be the same.

“We’ve been checking our fire watch apps and a lot of our friends have their ‘go bags’ packed and ready to move.

“Our home was in the red zone last night with another fire close to home, so we’re getting notifications to evacuate but there’s nothing we can do.

“Our friends posted videos from their windows of fire burning just up our street. We just feel for them. It will be very scary. Those fires were moving so, so, fast.

“It’s far from over too. The whole valley is just so dry. It literally has not rained for half a year and

the Santa Ana Winds are fierce this time of year,” says Devereux.

“I just know we’re going back to a different place and the impact of this event is going to change people and the city forever.

“Suddenly, there’s 100,000 extra people without a home.

“And all the insurance claims and the cost of replacing the homes alongside the massive cost of living is going to drive people to different cities and states, I feel.

“We’re cutting our trip short and heading back early, but obviously waiting for it to be safe.

“Logistics are going to be interesting, and the aftermath will be a long haul. We’re getting texts about not drinking the tap water so…”

A photo of the California fires taken by a neighbour of the Los Angeles-based Devereux family, of Howick. Photo supplied

Ice cream factory tour satisfies

My family and I recently went to the Tip Top Ice Cream Factory.

We got to do a complete tour of the factory and see the machines ice cream is made in, including the process of making an ice cream and the rich history of the Tip Top Ice Creams in New Zealand.

We arrived a few minutes early, as we were asked to arrive ahead of time. We waited in a beautiful room, with colouring sheets and templates for someone to design their own ice cream.

The children could easily entertain themselves with various options, including a movie that was playing in the background.

Some of the people who came for the tour were

watching the movie, some were on their phones and others chit chatted away.

There were 34 people taking the tour including my family.

As the tour guide took us through the factory, everyone on the tour were astounded by the process of how this mouth-watering ice cream is made.

We learnt that the inside of the factory didn’t look anything like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.

There were no chocolate rivers or Oompa Loompas, but you know what!

There were heaps of huge cylindrical steel machines making … ICE CREAM, adding flavours and mixing different ingredients day in and day out!

We went through the time from 1936 with our guide. She told us that was when Tip Top made its first appearance.

We travelled from 1937 all the way to the 2000s, it was a fun and interesting history lesson!

The tour took around one hour to complete and at the end we were treated with a finger-licking ice cream each from the chest freezer; there were so many flavours to choose from.

I just couldn’t pick one, so I ended up picking the Strawberry Milkshake Trumpet, as it was one of Tip Top’s latest releases in the Trumpet category and it tasted DELICIOUS!

While we were savouring the awesome ice cream our tour guide played a short movie, rounding up what she had told us and adding a few extra bits and bobs to the information we had gained from the tour. It was A-AMAZING and super FUN! • Pia Grover is in year 8.

09 534 3590

• Pakuranga Leisure Centre, 13 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga (entrance through William Roberts Rd), 09 261 8391

Final weeks to have your say on the future of our playgrounds

Auckland Council services

Rubbish and recycling

The council collects recycling (yellow top bin) every two weeks and rubbish (red top bin) every week. Visit a

Howick Local Board is asking for the community’s feedback on how to improve playgrounds in its area for all ages and abilities.

1 to find out when your collection day is.

The consultation is open for feedback until Sunday 9 February 2025.

Water

The board oversees and maintains more than 70 playgrounds in the area, but rising costs make it difficult.

• how easily can they access information about council playgrounds, play areas and amenities like toilets and seating areas.

For water supply information, inquires, and issues, go to w a t e

After the consultation closes on Thursday 9 February 2025, feedback will help the board consider how they provide and manage playgrounds in Howick.

n z or contact

Watercare on 0 9 4 4 2 2 2 2 2 .

The development of larger playgrounds (currently these include Howick Domain and Cockle Bay Reserve) has become popular destinations for families, with many other Howick communities asking for something similar in their area.

Public transport

Board Chair Damian Light states, “We recognise the need for more accessible, inclusive, and engaging play options across Howick, Pakūranga, Botany, and Flat Bush. However, with a limited budget and rising costs, maintaining existing facilities is a challenge. As our population grows and evolves, it is essential that we adapt our playgrounds to meet the changing needs of our communities.”

The area is served by a bus service. There is a ferry service between city and Half Moon Bay. Timetable and service information at

Where to walk your dog

Many of our parks and beaches allow you to walk your dog without a leash but there are some exceptions so check out the handy search function at

To deliver a plan that ensures their play spaces are creative, inclusive, unique, and caters to all ages, East Aucklanders can have their say on:

• what they use playgrounds for

Reporting a problem

• how well they think the playgrounds in the board area (includes Pakuranga, Howick, Botany, Flat Bush and East Tāmaki) provide play options for different age groups

• which activities they regularly take part in when they use council-owned open spaces and parks

or when in doubt, phone

Take part and have your say:

If you see a maintenance issue, something is broken or the rubbish bin is overflowing, at one of our local parks, beaches, maunga (volcanic cones) or community facilities go to a u

• if they prefer skate parks and bike pump tracks next to, or separate from, other play areas

• go online - https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ howick-local-board-playgrounds

• pick up and complete a feedback form at a library with council services

• post your completed form to: Howick playgrounds, Freepost 190198, Auckland Council, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142.

For general inquiries, including dog and noise control, call Auckland Council on 09 301 0101. Contact us

Visit: aucklandcouncil.govt.nz |

Follow: Facebook.com/HowickLB

Phone: 09 572 0148

Enquire: howicklocalboard@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Write: Howick Local Board, 1 Aylesbury Street, Pakuranga 2010

Mission Heights Reserve, 104R Jeffs Road, Flat Bush.

Photo supplied Auckland Council

Blyton Lane Reserve, Pakuranga Heights, is one of fourteen playgrounds that are fully or partially fenced.

Ka - inga Ora pauses public housing development

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

Public housing agency Kāinga Ora says it’s pausing a development that would have seen 15 new one-bedroom walk-up apartments built at a site in east Auckland.

The new homes would have been situated at a property in Pakuranga Road adjacent to Fairburn Reserve and over the road from Pakuranga Plaza.

They were initially intended to be ready for tenants to move into in October this year.

However, an update on the Kāinga Ora website

states the project is “currently on hold pending future budget decisions”.

The Times asked the agency why the development has been paused and when it plans to announce if it’s going ahead or is being cancelled.

Kāinga Ora regional director central and east Auckland John Tubberty says: “We’re continuing to work our way through decisions about future social housing development with a focus on priority locations and best value

for money.

“We expect decisions on where we will deliver houses through to June, 2026, will extend into the middle of this year.

“In relation to the site at 105 Pakuranga Road this site remains under assessment and as decisions are made we will continue to keep the community and stakeholders informed.”

Kainga Ora is building, or has completed, new homes in Bucklands Beach Road, Gills Road, Cascades Road, Cardiff Road, Opal Avenue, Reeves Road, Edgewater Drive, Aurea Avenue, and Gossamer Drive.

This property in Pakuranga was to contain more than a dozen new public housing apartments. Times photo

Public Opinion

Zoran Livada, visiting from Serbia

“I wish for health and happiness for my grandchildren. It’s my first time in New Zealand. I love the way of life here, the environment, and friendliness and calmness of people.”

Diane Kruger, visiting from South Africa

“I don’t usually make resolutions. I’m going to stick to my healthy diet because I’ve been sick. It’s my first time here, and it’s special to see my grandchildren – a very good time.”

The new year is under way and with it comes the usual air of optimism and energy, especially in this summer weather. PJ TAYLOR talked with people at Botany Town Centre about new year’s resolutions and how they think 2025 will be for them.

Alex Pope, of Howick

“I’m a youth pastor at Birkenhead Community Church and started here at Eastview. This year’s resolutions are to read the Bible more constantly and focus on my faith.”

Chris Kentsley, of Howick

“Health and wellbeing of my family. Last year was fine, and this year will be better. I want to focus on doing the things I do and catching up with people more often in person.”

Wei Huang, of Flat Bush

“This year my resolutions are to be more focused on schoolwork and studies, and to be involved in extracurricular activities such as badminton and in debating.”

Connor Riley, of Howick

“Yes, I make resolutions. This year’s first is to get my rowing goal of seven minutes and 30 seconds for the two-kilometre distance. I also want to have better fitness in 2025.”

Happy New Year from the Board

Congratulations to the recipents of New Year Royal Honours, in particular Reay Neben for her King’s Service Medal for services to print media and the community.

FREE EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

We hope you continue to enjoy summer and get along to some of the free community and council-run events happening in your neighbourhood.

Gather at Barry Curtis Park this Waitangi Day for a fantastic whānau-friendly day out brought to you by Auckland Council.

Come along from 10am for kai, weaving workshops, craft stalls, kōrero, and live music. Enjoy activities for tamariki, including face-painting, banner- and

Howick Local Board Chair

Damian Light

poi-making and more.

The Auckland Brit and Euro Classic Car Show returns to Lloyd Elsmore Park on Sunday, March 2, from 10am.

Run by a charitable collective of classic car clubs, this annual event attracts hundreds of classic cars in a family-friendly environment and all for free.

We’re proud to continue to support this event

through our event partnership fund.

We’ll be there talking to locals about where we should focus our efforts this year so look out for us.

The regionally-funded Music in Parks will bring Kiwi soul, pop, and funk to Lloyd Elsmore Park the following week Sunday, March 9, from 1pm.

Headlined by Rikki Morris and supported by party-starters Automatic80s, newcomer Oni Kidman, and Brother Sister.

And there’s plenty happening in your local park with Out and About Auck-

land activations funded by the Howick Local Board.

From skateboarding at Barry Curtis Park, to gymnastics in Lloyd Elsmore, and Ako Hoe Waka and Ako Kemu Māori (Māori Games) at Bucklands Beach, there’s something for everyone and all free! Check out www.facebook.com/OutandAboutAKL/ for up-todate information.

And our wonderful libraries continue to provide a wide range of activities, including children’s summer reading programmes through till the end of January.

FIND OUT MORE & STAY IN TOUCH

Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/howick Facebook: facebook.com/HowickLB eNewsletter: https://bit.ly/42kdAlK or scan QR

What to expect in 2025

In my first column for 2025 I wanted to start by wishing you all a Happy New Year.

I hope you’ve had a chance to take a break and reset over the holidays as we look forward to the year ahead.

The holiday break is always a great time to reflect on the past 12 months, and while I’m proud of the work our Government undertook in 2024 to get New Zealand back on track, I know there’s still more work to do to rebuild the economy, restore law and order, and deliver better public services.

Many Kiwis continue to struggle with the cost of living, but we’re seeing positive signs in the economy.

Inflation is down to 2.2 per cent, wages are grow-

ing faster than inflation, and we’ve delivered hardworking Kiwis tax relief.

Our focus for 2025 will continue to be on getting our economy not just moving again but thriving in the years ahead.

We have a fantastic team working hard to lay the foundations so we can hit the economic accelerator pedal and create more jobs, higher incomes, and afford the public services Kiwis expect and deserve.

This year will also see some major progress for our community in Pakuranga, with critical work being done on the Reeves Road Flyover in preparation for its expected completion in early 2026.

I know construction around the Pakuranga

Plaza has caused frustration for local commuters, with increased congestion and reduced access to retail spaces in the area.

There was always going to be some short-term pain while this important piece of infrastructure was built, and while there’s likely to be further disruption this year, I’ll continue to work with Auckland Transport (AT) to ensure it’s minimised and you’re kept informed at all times.

The other major change coming for Pakuranga this year is the reversal of the blanket speed limit reductions that were made under the last Labour Government.

Speed limits on major roads like Pakuranga Road and Ti Rakau Drive are

MP for Pakuranga Simeon Brown

set to be restored to their previous higher limits of 60km/h, which will help get east Auckland moving again.

AT is required to make these changes no later than July 1 this year, so expect to see some work on this soon.

My office in Pakuranga is now open for 2025, so if you’re in need of any assistance or have questions or concerns you wish to share, please get in touch by calling 09 572 0000 or emailing PakurangaMP@ parliament.govt.nz.

Focus on growing economy

Welcome to 2025! I hope you and your family enjoyed the Christmas break and had some time over the New Year to relax and refresh. I was lucky to spend some time relaxing with family and friends, and now I’m ready to get stuck in.

Our main focus in 2025 continues to be rebuilding the economy.

We know that inflation has dropped from 7.3 per cent to 2.2 per cent, interest rates are finally coming down, and wages are growing faster than inflation again.

Our budget last year delivered tax relief to 3.5 million Kiwis, with more money staying in your

From the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon

pocket where it belongs.

This year, my team and I will be travelling the world, working to expand trade opportunities and grow the economy.

Our focus is to double our exports in 10 years.

We can only become a richer and more prosperous nation by expanding

our relationships with the world, and we will be working hard to open up new opportunities for Kiwi businesses and exporters.

Another key piece of our economic recovery is through our Fast Track legislation, which became law in the last week of Parliament in 2024.

This marks an important next step in the approval process for projects that will help rebuild the economy, improve energy security, address our infrastructure deficit, and provide jobs and growth across New Zealand.

We’re seeing results in law and order, with ramraids falling and increased police foot patrols.

We’ve banned gang patches, so that after years of lawlessness, we’re turning the page and helping to make communities safer.

When school starts back up, teachers will be helping our kids read and write using the structured literacy approach, and the new math curriculum will be up and running.

We’ve put the focus back on the basics: reading, writing, and maths.

Our phone ban has also ensured kids aren’t distracted and are learning.

I am proud of what we achieved last year, and my Government is refreshed and ready to keep delivering for New Zealanders in 2025.

Universities on wrong track

Many young Kiwis are now looking ahead to the start of the university year.

Three or more years at university involves real cost. Students will accumulate significant debt and sacrifice years which could have otherwise been spent earning money and gaining skills in the workforce.

We owe it to these young people to ensure their time studying maximises their potential to build better futures for themselves while contributing to New Zealand.

ACT is concerned our universities are on the wrong track.

The University of Auckland will this year introduce a new compulsory course for all first-year students focused on the Treaty of Waitangi and tikanga Māori (indigenous knowledge).

The compulsory nature of the course means students will have less time to focus on their chosen areas of specialisation, or to explore elective papers that add joy and variety to the university experience.

Those studying medicine or engineering may find little direct relevance in tikanga Māori for their professional development.

The course will hold even less relevance for international students, who study here for careers abroad, paying full fees and effectively subsidising university for locals.

ACT has consistently stood for choice and variety in our education system. New Zealand’s collective knowledge is in fact stronger when different people have different learning experiences.

Young people can take

their varied knowledge into the world and engage in healthy disagreement and debate, pitching different knowledge systems against one another.

The push to put tikanga Māori at the centre of study is not limited to the University of Auckland. The Council of Legal Education is implementing compulsory tikanga Māori courses for law students at universities across New Zealand.

The downstream effect will be to infuse every part of our legal system with tikanga, enabling judicial activism that undermines the intent behind legislation passed by our elected Parliament.

Privileging indigenous knowledge systems will undermine academic freedom. It threatens open inquiry and evidence-based approaches such as the

scientific method. And it makes our collective knowledge base narrower and less relevant internationally.

Universities have the freedom to set their own policies, but they are publicly funded and deserve scrutiny.

At the very least, prospective students and their families should be fully informed about an increasingly dictatorial approach to the instruction of politically sensitive topics like the Treaty. ACT will continue to stand for choice, not compulsion, in education.

ACT List MP Parmjeet Parmar

Empowering learners

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

The experts at Kip McGrath Howick know what it takes to empower young learners to succeed as they mature into focused and educated adults.

Director Theresa Bosch is an experienced education professional, having held senior roles at Baradene College and Saint Kentigern College, two of the country’s best secondary schools.

She says Kip McGrath Howick, located in Moore Street, has a legacy of more than 40 years in educational support and serves as a “beacon of hope and excellence” for students striving to reach their full academic potential.

It provides personalised tutoring that caters to each student’s unique needs by offering tailored programs in mathematics, English, reading, and comprehension.

“Our experienced and passionate tutors use proven methods and innovative tools to help students from primary to secondary school levels,” Theresa says.

“Every student who comes here does an assess-

ment. Then based on that we load those activities into our customised lesson plan, and that means you’re targeting the learning gap.

“We focus on helping students transfer their learning into long-term memory. When they are reassessed, the knowledge should be well-embedded, allowing them to successfully complete the task or assessment. This approach enables us to clearly track and communicate their progress to parents.”

Kip McGrath Howick’s tutors are experts in their respective fields. They provide a supportive and encouraging learning environment and work

closely with students to build their confidence and academic skills. “We incorporate a variety of interactive tools and resources to make learning engaging and effective,” Theresa explains.

“From our digital platforms to hands-on activities, our approach ensures students remain motivated and interested. Parents are kept in the loop with regular progress reports and feedback sessions. This transparency helps in tracking the student’s improvement and making necessary adjustments to their learning plan.”

Kip McGrath Howick fully understands the

importance of education to the culturally diverse Howick community. About 25 per cent of its current students are Asian Kiwis.

“We’re committed to providing a supportive and culturally sensitive environment,” Theresa says.

“We recognise the high academic standards and aspirations within the Chinese community and strive to meet these expectations through our rigorous and comprehensive tutoring programs.

“Our centre is equipped to support students who may be transitioning from different educational systems or who require additional help with language proficiency.”

Theresa knows that Kip McGrath works as she’s seen it transform so many of her students’ lives.

“I had a mum say to me, not too long ago, “Theresa, you have changed my child’s life forever!’.

“I said ‘no, it’s not just me, it’s the programme, the tutors, everything that works together’.”

Contact Kip McGrath Howick on 027 271 1013 or book a free assessment online at www.kipmcgrath. co.nz/howick.

Theresa Bosch is franchisee and director at Kip McGrath Howick.

PRINCIPAL IN PERSON With Kelly Slater-Brown, Bucklands Beach Primary School

How long have you been an educator, and where did you train?

I’ve been an educator long enough that the children of my first class are in the same year 12 class as my middle child! I taught my first class in 1997.

When did you become principal of Bucklands Beach Primary School?

I had the pleasure of becoming principal in 2017.

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

Working with our most precious resource in Aotearoa, our tamariki. We get to watch them learn educationally, socially, learn about themselves and help them find their unique talent or passion and be proud of themselves. Every day is different. If I’m feeling stressed, I go and hang out with the five-year-olds who always want a cuddle or give lots of compliments. If I need to laugh, or some honest feedback on something we’re doing, I’ll head to the other end of the school.

What’s special about Bucklands Beach Primary School?

We have wonderful staff who are like a family, who are also happy to learn, adapt and are a very special multicultural community. We’re innovative, using research as our base and work on a model developed in the hi-tech high schools in America, where all learning is centred around authentic projects that serve either the school or wider community. This is really motivating for our students and in a selfie world, teaches our students how important it is to contribute to the bigger picture, to make life better for everybody,

whether that be people or the environment. I’m very proud of the amazing learning that happens in our school. Students often surprise us with what they have learned along the way.

Is there anything you’d like improved in the education/school management sector?

Funding primary schools, so we’re not trying to fundraise, get grants and find other ways to make our school run well, while trying to focus on our core business of teaching and learning. As long as I have been in management, the one thing we have asked for is money to meet the

needs of all students, or much smaller class sizes to allow teachers to do this effectively. This includes having access to people available like counsellors, psychologists and teacher aides. The current model is slow to access and has a medical model approach, assuming that students will be ‘fixed’ after a 12-week intervention, when often their brains just work differently and so accommodations need to be made for the student and supports put in place until the student no longer requires them.

How is the relationship between Bucklands Beach Primary Schools and its immediate local community?

We have a very supportive multicultural community. Recently, we had an international evening, with parents cooking and selling their traditional food. Groups of students worked with teachers to prepare items from different cultures. The performances ended with a wonderful dragon dance.

Kelly Slater-Brown with students Angela and Cooper Yang. Photo supplied

Why buying a business could be your smartest move

DAREN LENG, Senior Business Broker, ABC Business Sales

Why build a business from scratch when you can buy one that’s already thriving?

With an established business, you get instant cash flow, loyal customers, and brand recognition – assets that take years to develop.

Buying means skipping the start-up grind.

You inherit proven systems, supplier contracts, and a trained team, allowing you to focus on growth, not setup.

Plus, lenders prefer businesses with a track record, making financing easier.

Think buying limits your creativity? Think again. Acquiring a business gives you the freedom to innovate while building on a solid foundation.

Having started up businesses myself and sold many across multiple industries, I’ve seen how smart acquisitions give buyers a head-start with less risk.

You’re not just buying assets – you’re buying time and opportunity.

At ABC Business Sales, we help connect buyers with businesses primed for success.

If you’re ready to explore opportunities, reach out, I’d be happy to guide you through the process.

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

Stress-free borrowing

TONI DAWSON, a fullyqualified Mortgage Adviser with more than 15 years’ industry experience, shares her expertise.

It’s with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my wonderful P.A., Jo Young. My thoughts and love are with her family at this incredibly difficult time. She died peacefully at home earlier this month.

Jo was a wonderful support to me and my business. Her warmth, dedication, humour and positivity left a lasting impression with everyone she dealt with, including myself. She will be sorely missed. Fly high Mama Jo.

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2025

Recent data shows house prices are stagnant, as are interest rates. We didn’t see much trickle through after the Reserve Bank’s Official Cash Rate (OCR) announcement on November 27, 2024 (final one for the year), but we’re expecting interest rates to fall further this year as the recession continues to bite. So all in all, it’s still a good time to buy. Next OCR announcement is on February 19.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

We’re here to make borrowing stress-free and give you advice and support along the way. Whether you’re thinking about purchasing a home, investment property, or holiday home, or planning renovations or a new build, we can help!

We can also help you manage your existing lending, offering tailored advice on interest rates, structures, and more, and taking the hassle out of dealing with the banks. Best of all, our services are often free of charge. We’re proud to work with a wide range of clients, including first-home buyers, seasoned investors and business

Whatever your goals, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help!

Toni Dawson

NZCFS Level 5, BBS, GradDipBusStuds (Personal Financial Planning) FSP1000506

027 646 9269

loanmarket.co.nz/toni-dawson ToniDawsonLM

tonidawsonloanmarket

What’s the vibe in 2025

„ By CHARLES MILLER

People have always tried to predict the future – it’s a natural response to uncertainty. Whether individuals, businesses, or societies, we attempt to prepare for life’s curveballs.

In 1925, professor Archibald Montgomery Low predicted the radio alarm clock, personalised news broadcasts from a family loudspeaker, and the ability to see friends across the Atlantic during a call. By 1935, he foresaw video communication within half a century.

Incredible foresight!

History shows that after global shocks, be they pestilence, famine, or war, society undergoes seismic

shifts in trade, economies, health, and technology.

Economically, the global outlook is for modest growth, around three per cent, constrained by fiscal limitations, tariffs, and structural weaknesses.

Reliance on primary exports and tourism remains a bottleneck for scaling our economy.

To reposition as a tech-

nology leader, New Zealand needs more high-tech successes like Rocket Lab and Dawn Aerospace.

E-commerce continues its ascent, driven by subscription models and digital payment systems like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Artificial intelligence will dominate headlines, moving from experimentation to scalable monetisation. However, it also raises urgent challenges in governance, privacy, and ethics.

Wearable technology is revolutionising health, with non-invasive monitoring, smart bandages, and AI-driven individualized cancer treatments.

Sustainability demands, coupled with tech-driven supply chains, are reshaping the food industry.

Content creation continues to democratise media, empowering individuals to shape wider narratives.

Subscription models thrive here too, meeting the demand for constant access to information. However, misinformation remains a profound threat, challenging societal cohesion and trust.

To some, these shifts feel like a leap forward, offering opportunity and innovation.

To others, they seem like steps back, threatening rights and equity.

Regardless of perspective, 2025 demands that we face reality head-on.

Let’s change the tone, embrace where we are individually and engage constructively with others.

MANDEEP KAUR Q&A

With her family, she runs an iconic convenience store in east Auckland and talks to PJ TAYLOR of their philosophy of operating a small business in their community.

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND GREW UP?

I was born in Rajasthan in northwest India. It’s personified by its historic palaces and immense desert.

RAJASTHAN MEANS LAND OF KINGS. HOW WAS IT LIVING THERE?

Very simple. No one was in pursuit of money or fame. People were very content with what little they had, and it was a very happy place. Every neighbour was like family. Everyone would share food and items daily even when they had little or nothing to give. The community was like no other. Rajasthan has an immensely rich culture formed from centuries of royal ruling – it’s a popular tourist spot to learn about the heritage of India for tourists worldwide. I’m the youngest of six siblings who kept me grounded but also competitive and my parents both tried their absolute best to give us the best life they could with Dad retiring from the army to open a welding business.

WHY

DID YOU LEAVE INDIA AND WHEN WAS YOUR NEW ZEALAND ARRIVAL?

I got married to my husband Narender in 1991. He was already settled in New Zealand. I remained in India for the next two years completing my Masters of Commerce degree and arrived here in 1993.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN OWNEROPERATORS OF FOUR SQUARE COCKLE BAY?

We took over in mid-2008, in the middle of the Global Financial Crisis –fantastic time to invest in a business! – joking. Prior, I worked in the office at Pak’n’Sav Glen Innes and Narender was a merchandising/beverages specialist at Mainland. Our son and daughter helped us in this business in between their school and university days. Currently, my husband, son and I work alongside our fantastic team. Our son and daughter were born and brought up in east Auckland. They finished their education at Auckland University and have settled in Auckland.

WHAT’S

YOUR APPROACH TO BEING AN ACTIVE SMALL BUSINESS IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

Being active in the community is simple. The community supports us and has done so for many years, so we support the community back in every way we can. We supply schools for both food and monetary donations, supply the Howick Santa Parade, feed those in need free of charge via multiple in-house programmes, and support many official charities such as Give a Kid a Blanket, SPCA, Leprosy Foundation, Starship, and Guru Nanaks Kitchen who feed the

homeless of Auckland every month. It’s important to us that we remain present in the community, and in the off chance we aren’t working we’re trotting around Howick or Cockle Bay supporting our local businesses.

IT’S THE 100TH SUMMER OF FOUR SQUARE STORES IN NEW ZEALAND. THEY’RE A BUSINESS CULTURAL ICON. HOW ARE YOU CELEBRATING THE CENTENARY?

We have four exclusive products from your household names such as Fruju, Cookie Time, Watties, and Behemoth in store now. We also have Four Square hundy merch (caps, drink bottles, tote bags and playing cards) to celebrate this amazing milestone. Four Square is one of New Zealand’s most iconic brands, a pillar of multiple communities up and down the country and is proof Kiwi owned and operated can compete with major global organisations!

IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE TIMES DURING THE LEAD-UP TO CHRISTMAS, YOU GENEROUSLY GAVE AWAY FIVE FOOD PACKAGES A WEEK TO LOCAL FAMILIES. WHY DID YOU DO THAT?

Mandeep Kaur (right) and her husband, Narender Singh have run Four Square Cockle Bay for 16 years.

Times photo PJ Taylor

To give back to those in need in the community. Times are hard, but we think no one should go to bed hungry. In addition to the food packages, we also put cartons of food in our local food pantry on Whitford Road, weekly in the lead-up to Christmas, for the same reason. This ties into my childhood and community I was in Rajasthan, based on sharing and helping your neighbour, something I’ve carried with me throughout my life. My life mantra is: “You always can share a pinch with others of whatever you had in your hand.”

OPENING A CONVENIENCE STORE

OCCUPIES A LOT OF YOUR TIME. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY WHEN NOT WORKING?

Taking our dog, Junior, on walks around east Auckland. I love cooking and my family loves eating, so this occupies much of our time. In saying that, we work seven days a week. We wouldn’t be able to do that if we didn’t absolutely love what we did and who we do it for. Listening to our community tell us about their day, or tell a joke, makes the job so much easier.

WHERE ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES IN THE EAST?

I love going to Musick Point, Point View Reserve, Mellons Bay Beach, and of course, Cockle Bay Beach with the pup. We also love heading out to local cafes and the Howick Village Market on Saturday mornings.

IF THERE WAS ANYTHING YOU’D LIKE CHANGED IN NEW ZEALAND SOCIETY, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

New Zealand is the most beautiful melting pot of backgrounds and cultures. I’d love to see this grow and acceptance for others grow too. One thing that concerns me in recent years is the crime and violence amongst Kiwis. We have been victims to multiple break-ins and ram-raid style robberies which is disheartening after putting your heart and soul into the business seven days a week, year after year. I hope we can do better to understand one another’s pains to find direction for this misled youth, so we can feel safe in our own homes and workplaces. I know it’s possible. Kiwis can do anything we put our mind to!

EAST AUCKLAND ART KETE

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

JANUARY-FEBRAURY 2025

EVENTS:

Friday, 17 January: Uxbridge presents School Holiday Kids’ Films: Shrek (with free popcorn). 11am. 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. $6.

Friday, 24 January: Uxbridge presents School Holiday Kids’ Films: Frozen (with free popcorn). 11am. 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. $6.

Saturday, 25 January: Ring in the Lunar New Year at an outdoor Chinese music concert at Howick Historical Village! Featuring musicians from New Zealand Blossom Art Troupe. Bring a chair or blanket and a picnic. 12pm-2pm. Bells Road, Pakuranga. Free with general admission prices.

Thursday, 6 February: To mark this day of reflection, Howick Historical Village offers 50 per cent off admission prices on Waitangi Day. 10am-4pm. Bells Road, Pakuranga.

Saturday, 8 February: Te Tuhi presents a participative workshop, Ways of Viewing, by Seoul-based artist and choreographer Lee Yanghee. 1.30pm-3pm. 21 William Roberts Road, Pakuranga. Free (limited spaces).

Saturday, 8 February: Join Te Tuhi for an opening reception to welcome five new exhibitions featuring work by local and international artists including Lee Yanghee, John Vea, Theo Macdonald, Fa’amele Etuale, and Soil of Cultures. 4pm. 21 William Roberts Road, Pakuranga. Free.

Sunday, 9 February: Join Howick Historical Village for their Victorian Valentine’s Live Day. Learn about the traditions of the holiday! 10am-4pm. Bells Road, Pakuranga. Live Day admission prices.

ONGOING:

Every Saturday morning: Uxbridge hosts The Art Cupboard, a casual drop-in art space for families. 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. Saturday 10am-12pm. Gold coin donation.

17 January to 24 January: Uxbridge offers its summer Holiday Programme for kids. 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. Schedule and prices available at www.uxbridge.org.nz.

Now until Saturday, 15 February: Explore the push and pull of the cosmos as Uxbridge presents multidisciplinary artist Karen Sewell’s otherworldly Celestial Numinance. Malcolm Smith Gallery, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. MondaySaturday 10am–4pm. Free.

Now until March: Arts Out East presents Howick Frames installation bom dia! by Brunelle Dias. Second instalment now on display. 61 Picton Street, Howick. Free.

Now until Saturday, 19 April: Uxbridge presents Estelle Ruijne’s collection of

expressive paintings in Metamorphōsis. The Wall Gallery, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick. Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm. Free.

From 31 January: Arts Out East presents Neighbourhood Stories, a podcast led by Anju Desai aiming to shine a light on the contributions of east Auckland people who are making a positive impact in their community. Online. Free.

NOW:

Arts Out East presents Speak Out East (Community Poetry), a project aimed at utilising unused wall spaces throughout Botany Town Centre to showcase poetry from various community groups. The first featured poem is Half Moon Bay by Fu Jinzhi. More to follow. Free.

Interested in having your non-profit’s or charity’s events or activities appear here? Email info to: EastAucklandArtKete@ gmail.com by 11.59pm on the first day of each month. May be edited for clarity and space.

Holiday programme classes at Uxbridge Arts and Culture.

Photo supplied

WIN!

COOKBOOK DELIVERS DELICIOUS NOSTALGIA

Long-time east Auckland local Maree Robinson-Olsson is a whiz when it comes to whipping up delicious treats to satisfy all tastes. She’s excited to have recently released her stunning new cookbook, entitled Sweet Nostalgia.

It’s packed with dozens of recipes her family used while she was growing up in New Zealand including those for her mouth-watering Russian Fudge, Cherry Pie, Mini Cheesecakes, Cinnamon Scones, Chocolate Cake, and more.

“I love to bake,” says Maree, who used to own and operate the popular Quirk Dessert shop in Howick’s Picton Street. “It reminds me of a whimsical

FAMILY PASS TO THE CAT IN THE HAT

childhood where kitchens were filled with delicious smells and happy faces. Where you hung around your mum’s feet, hoping to be the one that got to lick the beater!

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a ‘sweet tooth’. I get it from my Dad. We both still love to crunch away on lollies and sweet treats. As a child, when we got treats, I would scoff them straight away, as opposed to my brother, who would savour his, and then slowly eat them in front of me. Big brothers!”

ALL ART IS THERAPY

A time to let the world go and focus on the inner-self and what is exactly in front of you. At MEGANZ School of Visual Arts we delve into drawing, painting and sculpting techniques, to help you create what you want to explore. Various class times available for students age 10 through to adults. Maximum eight students to a class. Contact Megan on 0211085419 to make a time to meet before the classes begin from 28th January. Explore students astwork on Instagram - @meganzsva

Check our website for details – www.vizart.co.nz

Maree says the cookbook is a collection of sweet recipes from her Nanna, Grandma, Aunty Kay, Aunty Midge, and her Mum.

“There are also some recipes I’ve adapted. I believe food should be a celebration. There’s something about coming together to share in nostalgic treats and desserts, and something super special about giving away homemade preserves and treats to others. I hope people enjoy making these simple, nostalgic recipes from growing up in New Zealand.”

Painting by 10 year old

Preston Ashton

Maree RobinsonOlsson (right) with Jacqui Harding at the recipe book launch at Poppies.

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 highresolution 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.

This week’s Community Hero is Rachael Cooper

Rachael was nominated by Nichola Painter, who writes: “Rachael has been volunteering her time teaching yoga at Ormiston Primary School every Saturday morning for the past seven years, running two one-hour classes catering to both beginners and more advanced students.

“Her investment in the community deserves acknowledging as over the past 18 months attendance has increased significantly, with up to 60 students participating each weekend.

“Encouraging students to reach their potential, Rachael’s classes are rooted in the science and biomechanics of yoga, emphasising physical strength and flexibility through mindfulness and Hatha/Vinyasa practices.

“Her sessions inspire a sense of gratitude and compassion towards

oneself and others, guiding students towards deeper self-awareness and fitness, and help foster social connections.

“Saturday mornings wouldn’t be the same without Rachael’s dedication and commitment to our ever-growing community.”

EXCITING TIMES AS NEW BUSINESSES MOVE IN

„ By KATIE TRENEMAN, Village Manager, Howick Village Association

There are some exciting changes within the Village. We welcome to the Village Howick Trading Post, a unique small business offering a wide selection of brand-new items sourced directly from auctions of businesses going into receivership.

Their inventory includes everything from clothing, home goods, electronics, tools and kitchenware, all at unbeatable prices. Every product is carefully inspected for quality, ensuring customers receive the best value for money.

Whether you’re looking to furnish your home, upgrade your wardrobe, or find a one-of-a-kind item, Howick Trading Post has something for everyone. Visit them at 14 Moore Street and discover treasures others have left behind, all while saving big!

Subway Howick has a new franchisee, Supinder Jot Kaur, who is also the owner of

Subway Highland Park.

Wendy Hannah is a renowned colour and light artist, known for her vibrant reflective sculptural forms. Her design work is blurring the lines of fine art with collaborations with commercial designers globally. Her new working art studio XCollective.Space will open at the end of the month, located in Central Terrace (in the previous Times Media location).

Also, we’re very excited about another new business coming to the Village. Howick Village Vets is opening on March 3 with a brand-new clinic in the heart of Howick at 14 Moore Street.

The former Vanilla Plant Based Kitchen premises at 65 Picton Street have been

leased and builders are on-site refurbishing it so watch this space.

We would like to acknowledge Reay Neben, who’s always been an advocate of our Association. Reay founded the Howick and Pakuranga Times newspaper in 1972. She was recently honoured in the New Year Honors List with the Kings Service Medal (KSM) for services to print media and the community.

We are all watching in horror at the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. Something that’s struck me is the grief for the loss, of not only homes, but communities as well. It makes me feel so grateful for the wonderful Village we have.

Our next big event is the Cultural Food Festival from 9am-2.30pm on Saturday, March 1. Our market will be running, we have many international food trucks coming, an exciting range of dancers and entertainment, and Picton Street will be closed.

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS WHAT THEY SHOULD INCLUDE

An employment agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee and is a record of what’s been agreed to about the employment.

Every employee must have a written employment agreement. It’s legally binding, which means if one party doesn’t do what they’ve agreed to, the other party can enforce the agreement through a disputes process and the Employment Relations Authority, if necessary.

By law, an employment agreement must cover:

> the employee’s job title

the employee

> a description of the employee’s duties

> what type of employment agreement it is, for example permanent, fixed term, casual

> the location of work

> the employee’s hours of work including guaranteed hours of work and availability clauses (if relevant)

> how much pay the employee will receive

> how to resolve any disputes between the employer and the employee

> entitlements relating to public holidays

Times_160W_115H.pdf 10 09/01/2025 4:24 PM

> the names of both the employer and

> what will happen to the employee if another business takes over as

their employer.

The employment agreement must also have a space for the employer and employee to sign.

The Employment Agreement Builder on business.govt.nz is an online tool for employers to write their employment agreements. It covers what’s required by law and sets out common mistakes made by employers and how to avoid them.

This Solutions Column has been compiled by Vani and is a regular Times editorial from the Pakuranga Citizens Advice Bureau. Email enquiries.pakuranga@cab.org.nz or call/text WhatsApp 028 438 2188, visit us at the Library Building, Pakuranga, phone 576 8331 and at Botany Citizens Advice Bureau, rear food court entrance, Botany Town Centre, phone 09 271 5382 or 0800 367 222 for free, confidential and informative help.

AUCKLAND

NEW ZEALAND TEMPLE

OPEN HOUSE

27 FEBRUARY - 22 MARCH (EXCLUDING SUNDAYS)

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY AND PEACE OF THE AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND TEMPLE.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE AND RESERVE YOUR VISIT.

WHAT’S ON

MEET NEW PEOPLE

u3a Pakuranga is for 55yrs+ looking to meet new people, and offers 30+ interest groups. First meeting for 2025 is Monday, 3 February. Guest speakers and socialise with members over afternoon tea. Join us at St Andrews Church, Vincent Street, Howick. 1.45pm.

KIWI BUBBLE SOCCER

Rogers Park, 178 Clovelly Road, Bucklands Beach, Thursday, 23 January, 10am-12pm. Free admission. Bubble Soccer is a hilarious combination of traditional sports and big Bubble suits. While your upper body is safely enclosed in a huge inflatable Bubble, players are sent flying through the air and tumbling on the ground. Supported by Howick Local Board. Suitable for kids and adults. Minimum age is five years.

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.

10AM-3PM 2025 SUNDAY 02 MARCH

Cartoonist Roger Smith provides his witty take on important issues.

EVENTS UPCOMING

OUT EAST

VANTAGE BLACKSTICKS WOMEN VS USA TEST 2

Sunday 19 January 3pm, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga

Cheer on Oceania’s top junior hockey teams at the World Cup Qualifiers in Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga. Exciting matches, future stars — don’t miss it!

GYMNASTICS IN THE PARK

Wednesday 22 January 9.30-11.30am, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga

Join us for Gymnastics in the Park at Lloyd Elsmore Park! Enjoy a fun, free outdoor session for all ages and skill levels. Don’t miss this exciting community event– see you there!

LIGHT OFFERING DHARMA SERVICE

Sunday 19 January 9-11.30am, Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, 16 Standcombe Rd, Flat Bush

Join us for a joyous celebration of the Chinese New Year! Participate in the Light Offering Dharma Service, receive auspicious red packets, and enjoy delicious vegetarian dishes at our vibrant food stalls.

KIWI BUBBLE SOCCER

Thursday 23 January 10am, Rogers Park, 178B Clovelly Road, Bucklands Beach

Get ready for action-packed fun at Kiwi Bubble Soccer in Rogers Park! Bounce, laugh, and play in this exciting event for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to join the fun – just turn up, no booking required.

Kiwi & Aussie Gin Distillers

The Cloud, Queens Wharf, Auckland. Tickets: www.ginevents.nz

BBQ DONE THE MOO MOO WAY!

Barbecue isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience – at Moo Moo Smokehouse.

Nestled in the heart of Ormiston Town Centre, this smoky haven brings the art of barbecue to Aucklanders with passion and authenticity.

The pitmasters at Moo Moo take their craft seriously, embracing the low-andslow method to create melt-in-yourmouth masterpieces.

Their secret? A combination of handblended spices, a perfected smoke profile, and family recipes that have stood the test of time.

The menu is a carnivore’s dream: tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone short ribs, juicy pulled pork, succulent lamb,

as $22, with premium options like the smoked brisket platter at $38 for the ultimate feast.

Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a takeout feast to enjoy at home, Moo Moo Smokehouse is where serious BBQ meets incredible flavour.

and handmade jalapeño cheddar pork sausages that pack a punch. For steak lovers, their specialised cuts are a must-try.

Meals come at great value, with hearty portions priced to satisfy both your appetite and wallet. You can indulge in signature BBQ dishes from as little

For your next culinary adventure, think about heading to Moo Moo Smokehouse at Ormiston Town Centre, Shop F21, and taste barbecue done the Moo Moo way!

Ormiston Town Centre, at 240 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush, is the place to be for food, fun and entertainment.

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

VINTAGE

roundup

Wine columnist and connoisseur DENNIS KNILL gives his views on three new wines from St Hugo

South Australia has a wealth of wine riches with the quality of their reds becoming more evident.

Although the wine regions are spread right across the state, the Barossa and Coonawarra will always be worthy of a place in the Kings Court.

With over 700 wineries, one of these is St Hugo, a household name producing award-winning wines that capture all that is great about Aussie reds.

Over many decades St Hugo has built a legacy crafting fine wines from two of Australia’s most famous wine regions.

Although Barossa is the acclaimed wine destination, not to be outdone Coonawarra with its dense concentrated red terra rossa soil produces some of the best and richest reds in South Australia.

Here are three lovingly crafted wines from grapes harvested from both regions.

’20 St Hugo cabernet sauvignon. RRP $40. This popular regional blend is bold and earthy with concentrated fruit and aromas that are clean and fresh on the nose. Ready to drink now. Pair with beef, lamb, pork and venison.

Spicy House CHINESE RESTAURANT

’23 St Hugo grenache/shiraz/mataro.

RRP $40. A classy trifecta with fresh and vibrant flavours combined with mineral undertones and light tannins that flow onto the palate. Will cellar well. Best served with roast beef, lamb and game.

’21 St Hugo shiraz. RRP $40. ‘Gold medals’ says it all. Fermented in French oak, this clean and powerful wine, with its fresh fruity flavours, will saturate the plate. The perfect summer wine for the BBQ. Pair with beef and gourmet sausages.

Mon-Fri 11.30am-2:30pm; 4.30-10pm. Closed Tuesday Sat & Sun 11.30am-10pm

Indulge in the vibrant, authentic tastes of China right here in Howick Dine in or takeaway

4/87 Picton St, Howick Ph 09 532 8368 Text 021 242 1668

Tuesday-Sunday

Enjoy our family fiesta meal

– for just $99 you’ll enjoy:

• Guacamole & tortilla chips

• Mexican fried chicken

• Any 4 taco’s

• 2 x churros & icecream!! Such good value! Available anytime!

MOVIE REVIEW

BY JACK WATSON

CONCLAVE

> DIRECTOR: Edward Berger

> STARRING: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow

> GENRE: Political thriller

> RATING: 3 stars

Conclave is a look into the scandalous and political world of religion that’s fascinating to watch.

The film’s greatest asset is its visual presentation. It looks magnificent and that’s down to the cinematography, costumes, and the positioning of characters. The men are dressed in red and look great with how sharp and symbolic it is among the neutralcoloured set pieces.

WATCH READ LISTEN

AVAILABLE FROM HOWICK PAPER PLUS

THE HIDDEN GIRL

The build-up to the elections isn’t my favourite portion of the film, but once the voting commences, the politics of it all captivates me.

We learn about each candidate through conversations between Fiennes and Tucci and this can distract from being immersed among the bickering Catholics, which I enjoyed.

The film offers a dry sense of humour that subtly worms its way into the script. This is a peek behind the curtain into a world people tend not to think about with a thought-provoking ending.

East FM is east Auckland’s community radio station now in its 16th year.

The She’ll Be Right on Saturdays Show with PJ Taylor is a platform for New Zealand musicians to exhibit their talents by playing recordings and talking about their musical careers.

In the podcast area of www.eastfm.nz, there are presently 106 features from the She’ll Be Right Show on Kiwi music artists, for example:

> No. 104 – country-pop by Miranda Easten, a star on the rise with new album Concrete and Honey.

> 97 – NZ music great Rikki Morris, who headlines Music in Parks Pakuranga on March 9.

> 90 – Aussie-Kiwi music legend Kevin Borich talks about his 60 years of blues rocking.

> 80 – Sarah van Zyl, and 83 – Raging Flowers, two singer-songwriters of east Auckland.

> 87 – Howick drummer Taylor Griffin talks about his first solo album In Green

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

A breathtaking new story from the international #1 bestselling author of the Seven Sisters series, Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker. Sweeping across two generations, from the ghettos of Europe during the Second World War to the enclaves of New York’s Fifth Avenue, The Hidden Girl traces the life of Leah Thompson, who rises from humble beginnings in rural Yorkshire to take the modelling world by storm. But her fateful association with the Delancey family dominates her life.

RRP $37.99, Paper Plus Our Price $32.99 IN TOO DEEP

The much anticipated 29th book in the Jack Reacher series by acclaimed thriller writers Lee and Andrew Child. Reacher had no idea where he was. No idea how he had got there. But someone must have brought him. And shackled him. And whoever had done those things was going to rue the day. That was for damn sure. The last thing Reacher can recall is the car he hitched a ride in getting run off the road. The driver was killed. His captors assume Reacher was the driver’s accomplice and patch up his wounds as they plan to make him talk. A plan that will backfire spectacularly.

RRP $38, Paper Plus Our Price $29.99

BEAUTY COUNTER

THE SUMMER ROUTINE

Spend more time at the beach with our minimalistic summer skincare routine!

TOWER28 SOS DAILY RESCUE FACIAL SPRAY

Keeps skin hydrated and soothed before and after a long day at the beach with a spritz of this after your cleanser. This facial spray also doubles up as body mist catering to sunburns, eczema, rashes and more. Mecca RRP $52.

COLLAGEN GLOW 100 PER CENT MINERAL PERFECTING PRIMING LOTION

This multitasking SPF is a winner for a minimalistic skincare routine. It’s got you covered from treatment, moisturiser, SPF and primer. Mecca RRP $53.

GLOW RECIPE AVOCADO CERAMIDE MOISTURE BARRIER CLEANSER

For a thorough and gentle cleanse, melting away SPF, make-up, and excess oil and dirt without causing dehydration. This creamto-foam texture assists in keeping your skin feeling calm all summer long with hydration and nourishing ingredients. Mecca RRP $52.

We love to empower you with personalised beauty advice. For more beauty tips and product recommendations follow us on social media @bonitartistry; bonitaartistry.co.nz/blog.

From the team

1/10 At The Terraces, 24 Wellington St, Howick www.attheterrace.co.nz

As New Year’s Day draws to a close, I’m wondering what the year ahead will bring. Reader, 2024 was really rough… even for a girl who likes it rough.

I refer, of course, to embracing life’s rich tapestry of challenging experiences… why, what did you think I meant?

There were some interesting projects (like this column) that came my way, but generally speaking the year was a wreck.

One thing that I was blessed with in 2024 was new relationships. I had some fun dates.

I met the Bulgarian, now considered a dear friend with benefits, and two wonderful travellers, whom I now consider comets (a comet is someone who “orbits” in and out of your romantic atmosphere, for whatever reason – in this case, distance). I’m proud to know all three of these gentlemen and aware that I’m a very lucky girl.

The best luck, however, often follows intention and action. No relationship is effortless (except, perhaps, the unhealthy ones).

Therefore, I like setting intentions around what I want or need, and how I show up for the people I care about. Feel free to borrow an idea, if you think one of these might help your connectedness in 2025.

1 – USE MY PHONE MINDFULLY

I intend to have one completely phonefree evening each week, and at least two more when I use my phone only as a phone – to call family and friends, instead of scrolling.

I’m a huge fan of pebbling (sending sweet or funny memes to let someone know you’re thinking of them), but a recent call with one of my comets reminded me how much I love hearing someone’s voice.

2 – SPEND QUALITY TIME

I intend to continue dating busily, but to also schedule a weekly date night with someone important – myself. The pressures of the year meant that self-care slipped a bit in 2024… time to recapture the magic.

3 – DATE CLOSER TO HOME

I do enjoy a city date, but I’d like to support local businesses more when I’m dining out. I’m also a Howick girl through and through, so I think seeing the local spots I love could help someone know me better.

Reader, do you have any ideas to share? If so, email holly@times.co.nz or leave a comment on Times social media. Admittedly, if my phone-free intentions go to plan, it might take me a while to see it. Wishing you all the best for the year ahead.

Email holly@times.co.nz

Yours in love, Holly

Read more of Holly’s columns here

MORNING MAGIC

TO FUEL YOUR DAY

„ By MICHELLE KEENAN

A few tweaks to your morning routine will set the tone for a more enjoyable, productive, energised day. My top tips:

1. Your morning starts the night before – Getting enough good quality sleep means you’re far more likely to wake up feeling clear-headed and rested, rather than groggy and slow.

2. Avoid your phone first thing – Give yourself the gift of 30 minutes of screen-free time to start your day.

3. Practice mindfulness – A few minutes of mindful awareness can help you start your day feeling calm and centred. Find a short guided meditation to follow, or simply focus on your breath for a minute or two.

4. Move your body – Whether it’s a full workout, yoga, or even a few stretches, movement in the morning increases blood flow and releases endorphins.

5. Get daylight exposure – Exposure to early morning light helps set your body clock, which impacts energy, sleep quality, and overall wellbeing.

www.michellekeenan.com

The Pilates practice that’s second to none

Jason and Lorna opened Peak Pilates and Physiotherapy in Botany more than 20 years ago, pioneering the integration of Pilates with physiotherapy. They were one of the first studios to combine the principles of Pilates with a physio practice, giving clients a holistic offering of clinical Pilates for injury rehab, and conditioning Pilates using high-end reformer machines, for overall well-being.

Jason, a former pro-tennis player, developed his interest in Pilates after a back injury. He trained at the Pilates Institute in London and with Stott Pilates before creating his own Stability Plus Pilates method. Lorna, a former athlete and physiotherapist, manages the Botany studio, ensuring top-tier training and gold-standard treatments.

Peak classes are small, with a limit of eight people per class. “We purposely keep classes small, it makes for a good experience for everyone,” says Jason. Many of the instructors are physiotherapists, ensuring clients receive personalised attention. They are highly attuned to body stress and micro-adjust positions to ensure alignment, proper breathing, and core engagement. Instructors also explain the muscle groups worked during exercises, helping clients understand how their bodies function.

Each sequence is structured and low-impact, offering subtle yet intense movements like C-curves and bridges for spine health, Pilates hundreds to strengthen the core, and sprinter and side lying exercises for the glutes. The studio is equipped with a range of Pilates tools – hand weights, circles, boxes, and balls – keeping classes varied and engaging. Stretching sequences conclude each session, leaving clients feeling accomplished.

“It’s important to keep your body moving,” says Lorna. “My dad comes twice a week to rehab an injury, and he loves it.” Clients often see a change in their body shape after just a few sessions. For more details or to book a class, visit www.peakpilates.co.nz.

Jason and Lorna

GREY

EXPLORING THE WORLD

ITC Botany graduate Fleur describes her amazing adventures overseas, having been promoted to a managerial level at AJ Hackett.

What’s your new job title and what are the changes or new responsibilities that comes with this type of role?

I’m a Nevis site controller. My role covers pretty much everything across the whole Nevis site – compliance, HR, health and safety, maintenance, you name it.

Tell us some of the highlights since we caught up with you in 2023?

I took my first solo overseas trip to Canada. I met up with a friend who used to work at AJ Hackett, which inspired me to take on a new role working on the mountain. I’ve done two full seasons of snowboarding and I’m absolutely loving it!

What were the key things you did in your first role that made AJ Hackett consider you for your new role?

I applied for the supervisor role when I was still just shy of 18 and didn’t get it, which was a disappointment. I took it on the chin, kept learning from my team, and applied again a few months later, and this time, I got the role.

What are you excited about the most about the new challenge?

NEW YEAR ~NEW YOU~

might be diving into the financial side or helping the team.

What advice do you have for people who’ve just entered into a new tourism role to help them get opportunities for advancement?

The chance to take on more responsibility and be involved in everything happening across the Nevis site. One day I’m working on compliance or safety and the next I

Stay curious and always look for ways to learn. Tourism jobs are fast-paced and there’s so much to pick up, so the more you know about how everything works, the better.

NEW YEAR ~NEW YOU~

TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE

This is your year to drop bad habits, adopt new positive ones, and become a better version of yourself.

The phrase “New Year, New You” inspires us to embrace fresh opportunities and discard what no longer serves us. It’s about progress, not perfection, and there’s no better time to start your journey of transformation than the New Year summer period.

East Auckland is blessed with some of the best beaches in the country, so get out and make the most of them during the warm and sunny weather.

Walk along the beach or go for a swim and then sit in the shade and read a good book. Try to give your phone a rest as we don’t need to be constantly plugged into our devices.

Start each day with a period of mindfulness. Envisage what you want to get done, or what your priorities are from top to bottom.

You could also dedicate five to 10 minutes each morning and evening to journalling. Write down what you did that day and what emotions you felt. What went wrong? What went right? Go a bit deeper and explore what challenges over the past

private healthcare, closer to

Ormiston Hospital & Healthcare has proudly been a member of the Southeast Auckland community for over 15 years.

As the only private surgical healthcare provider in Southeast Auckland, we aim to be the healthcare hub of excellence chosen by you.

We strive to create an environment that delivers outstanding patient care – from our world-class facilities, to our talented and caring team who bring our vision to life.

the

year shaped you and what achievements made you proud. List your goals, celebrate your accomplishments, and be proud of yourself.

This is also a great time to finally join a gym and make the most of everything it offers, whether that’s exercising at your own pace or in one of its group classes.

Try to consume less alcohol or give up smoking, eat more fresh fruit and vegetables, read one book a month, and spend more time with people who inspire and uplift you.

Life is short so give it everything you’ve got.

with a deeper

NZ Warriors 2025 preview

OPINION

„ By HENRY LEE, AUT Journalism Student

After a shock retirement from one of the One New Zealand Warriors’ greatest players of all time, the upcoming season has taken quite a sharp turn.

Tohu Harris played 117 times for the Warriors and was the side’s current captain.

His retirement opens up salary cap space, but it’s unlikely the Warriors bring in a high-quality signing this close to the season.

It leaves the Andrew Webster-coached side in a sticky situation that will likely result in a season of rebuilding.

The team’s attack in 2024 was predictable and lethargic and often became the reason last season was so underwhelming.

Webster stuck with the same game plan that worked in 2023, hoping and praying fortunes

would remain.

It didn’t happen, frustrating for fans who had such high hopes heading into last season.

The ever-present question about where star back Roger Tuivasa-Sheck played in the backline continued to haunt throughout the year, as it was clear the change to centre wasn’t working.

Mitch Barnett will likely step into the captaincy role this season, with the help of other experienced players like Tuivasa-Sheck and James Fisher-Harris.

The biggest news for Warriors fans this year is the addition of four-time premiership winner Fisher-Harris from the Penrith Panthers.

The Kiwis captain will

bring a wealth of winning experience to a team that’s lacked it in recent times.

Two Gold Coast Titans 2024 squad members, Tanah Boyd and Erin Clark, have also made the move over the ditch to join the Warriors.

Webster’s side will struggle without the firepower and class of many other NRL teams, which will hopefully leave space for up-and-coming young backs like Moala Graham-Taufa and Ali Leiataua to develop and grow into seasoned NRL players.

It’ll also be interesting to see how much young forwards Jacob Laban and Demetric Vaimauga feature in the opening rounds, two players who have clear promise.

Howick Tyres & Alignments

Michael Johnson and Buster with the team.

Tohu Harris. Photo supplied One New Zealand Warriors

Young athletes aim high

„ By CHRIS HARROWELL

There’s a new national school athletics champion in east Auckland.

Pakuranga College pupils Jordan Viljoen, Amelia McKenzie and Veronique Koole were among the standouts in the junior girls category at the recent New Zealand Secondary Schools Athletics Association Track and Field Championships.

Jordan won gold in the final of the 80 metres hurdles to be named national champion.

The 14-year-old blitzed the field with a winning time of 12.31 seconds, a new personal best (PB).

She also finished second both in the high jump with a best of 1.64 metres, and the 300 metres hurdles in a time of 45.94 seconds.

The Pakuranga Athletic Club representative says she had the mindset of being able to win the 80m hurdles.

“I’d done trainings the week before, strength and conditioning, and running some races at club nights.

“In the heats I did a major personal best (PB) of 12.11 seconds and in the final I did 12.31. I was very

happy with the gold.”

Jordan may have surprised some by finishing second in the 300m hurdles final given she was new to the race. “I’d only done it previously in the heats,” she says.

Amelia finished fourth in what’s possibly the most difficult and technical of track and field sports, the pole vault, with a height of 2.20 metres.

The 15-year-old admires Kiwi Olympian polevaulter Eliza McCartney and has a long-term ambition to represent Auckland and then New Zealand.

“Currently my goal is to jump over three metres, so

in the next year I want to do that at the North Island nationals.

“I haven’t been doing it for very long. The nationals [in the South Island] were my first competition doing pole vault.

“I think once I did a comp and get over my nerves, the development every year will be quite big.”

Veronique finished sixth in the javelin with a best throw of 27.51 metres.

The 15-year-old had been suffering from a shoulder injury leading into the competition.

“My goal was to throw above my personal PB,

which is 32 metres, but I came short and not everything went right on the day.

“I went down there and got to throw and made it into the next round with the top six.”

She became interested in the javelin from seeing it on television and her father used to compete in the sport.

Veronique also competed in the 300 metres hurdles at the school national champs, making the semi-finals.

“Javelin is more about technique,” she says. “Some people can throw with their upper body, but if you want to get distance it’s mostly from your legs and the momentum you get from the run-up.

“I’d love to keep doing both [javelin and hurdles] but in terms of where I go in future, I think javelin is the best option for me.”

She loved taking part in the competition alongside her two schoolmates.

“I find it really comforting that we’re the same age and are all girls going down and showing we can do it and represent our school.

“It’s not always about the other sports. Athletics is also pretty big.”

From left, Amelia McKenzie, Jordan Viljoen and Veronique Koole.

“Act of love” blesses odyssey

„ By PJ TAYLOR

An adventurous woman who has sailed 16,000 nautical miles over 18 months has made east Auckland her temporary port for rest and repairs.

Jacqueline Evers, of The Netherlands, set off from her homeland in July 2023 on what’s intended to be a three-year single-handed yachting journey around the world.

She was always going to sail to New Zealand and the reason she’s been berthed at Half Moon Bay Marina since last month is because she’s needing repairs made to her yacht’s mast and equipment.

After arriving from Tonga, she docked at Marsden Cove in Northland and saw Independent Riggers, who suggested for the work she was requiring to her yacht, Loveworkx, that she visit their yard near Half Moon Bay Marina.

The 55-year-old has become a welcome and popular visitor at the marina and Bucklands Beach Yacht Club, where she’s been helped by people including Kevin Turner, the well-known window cleaner.

Jacqueline Evers, of The Netherlands, has been sailing the world’s high seas for 18 months, and has made Half Moon Bay Marina in east Auckland her stopover port for rest and repairs to her boat, Loveworkx. Times

She’s enjoyed good times on route, and it’s disappointing to report the first real trouble she’s experienced has been in Auckland waters.

Times Online reported last week that she and her visiting son Sem had been attacked by a male in another yacht in Oneroa Bay, Waiheke Island, on Christmas Day.

On January 7, police said “a 63-year-old man is facing four charges of committing a dangerous activity involving ships, one charge of theft, and three charges of intentional damage following an incident where he allegedly rammed a number of boats

anchored at Oneroa Bay, Waiheke Island, on Christmas Day”.

Despite the frightening episode, Evers has appreciated her stay in Auckland.

Evers says her amazing global odyssey would not be possible without the blessing of her caring and understanding life partner Mark, and Sem.

She became a psychotherapist 20 years ago and her land-based work at Loveworkx in The Netherlands is all about finding practical solutions to problems couples are having in their relationships – encouraging better ways to communicate and be in stronger unions.

It’s a little contrary to her everyday work life that for someone who promotes togetherness will be away from her partner for three years.

But she says Mark’s attitude echoes the words of Sting’s song of the 1980s – if you love someone set them free.

“It’s an act of love,” Evers says, with a joyful tear explaining Mark’s philosophy. “He said for me to follow my dream.”

She started sailing as a child in Holland at age 10, continuing until she was 25, then had a few years away from it.

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

photo PJ Taylor

PUZZLE TIME

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8171

ACROSS

6. Where he (Pat) bumps into the old hag in the book (7,3). 8. Blinking, set to work with the needle (4). 9. The dog watch, we’re told (4). 10. Prick up the ears oddly when I enter (5). 11. Consequently taking, myself, part off it (4). 12.It may wind up in your house (9). 16. Human error? (6,3). 20. The top bow (4). 22. The defence is that the Arab has a double (5). 23. “Die, man!” you say (4). 24. Take a close look at the small container (4). 25. Meant to give some thought to (10).

DOWN

1. A warning that soldiers will be put in (6). 2. That’s nothing to the help I could be to a girl (7). 3. Notes the doctor in charge is he (6). 4. Issues duplicates (6). 5. Yields the best players, we’re told (5). 7. One’s best suit –and cap (5). 13. Notes the look (3). 14. Looks furiously at the radiators (7). 15. Give one the strength of two (5). 17. A bird, a duck, one the Loire swimming (6). 18. At three fifty goes by, in a hat (6). 19. Light that’s put out when I get in (6). 21. Useful in telling you how the hydrant opens (5).

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8171

ACROSS

6. Loyalty (10)

8. Differ (4)

9. Border (4)

10. Feather (5)

11. Vegetable (4)

12. Reptile (9)

16. Stylishly (9)

20. Girl (4)

22. Unrefined (5)

23. Test (4)

24. Bawl (4)

25. Usual (10)

DOWN

1. Aircraft (6)

2. Implore (7)

3. Clear (6)

4. Yearly (6)

5. Raze (5)

7. Nationality (5)

13. Anger (3)

14. Surround (7)

15. Officer (5)

17. Boat (6)

18. Fat (6)

19. Heavy (6)

21. Fragment (5)

ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA

BUILDERS

BUILDERS

PAINTER

JK PAINTING

PLUMBING

Receptionist

We are looking for an enthusiastic and organised receptionist to work within our administration team.

This is a permanent, part-time position working term time only (secondary school term time). The position commences 20/01/2025 or by negotiation. For more details about the position and how to apply, please refer to our website: www.pakuranga.school.nz.

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

Pakuranga Park Village

Sunnyhills School Year 0-2 Structured Literacy Support Teacher (0.5)

We are looking for someone who is passionate about teaching structured literacy and supporting our learners to make accelerated progress in reading. This is a part-time position Monday-Thursday (12.5 hours per week) working with small groups of students in a withdrawal space.

The successful applicant will need:

• To have participated in structured literacy professional development with a Ministry approved provider (Little Learners Love Literacy preferred)

• Use structured literacy as core/foundation in teaching reading, writing and oral language in the context of curriculum.

• Have a commitment to reporting, monitoring and evaluating student progress

This is a fantastic opportunity to join our team and help our youngest children achieve their potential. Applications close Monday 20 January.

For an application form please contact Principal Mark Keenan, markk@sunnyhills.school.nz

Public notice of application for an alcohol licence Under section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

object to the issue of the licence, may file a notice in writing of their objection. The objection notice must be filed no later than 25 working days after this notice has first been published online. Any objections must be in relation to matters specified in section 102(4) or 105(1) or section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

Address your objection to: The Secretary of the District Licensing Committee.

Mail to: Private Bag 92300, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142.

Email to: alcoholobjections@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

This application has been/will be published online on the following date:

First notice: 20 December 2024

Any person who is entitled to object, and wishes to

Second notice: 16 January 2025

SITUATIONS

VACANT

Full Time Funeral Director

Resthaven Funerals has built a reputation for offering excellent service and genuine caring assistance to families in our local communities in Auckland for many years. We love what we do, each family is special to us and we are committed to providing exceptional support and care for them. An opportunity has arisen for a full time Funeral Director to join our team and service families through our two locations in Howick and Manurewa.

• Are you great with people and do you have a positive can-do attitude?

• Do you have great customer service skills that could be applied to our unique and special industry?

• Can you work proactively and productively in a tight knit team?

• Are you physically fit and have no problem with heavy lifting?

• Are you mentally fit and can manage other’s grief?

• Do you have exceptional attention to detail, proven time-management skills and are great at meeting multiple deadlines?

• Are you IT literate and confident using different IT programs and AV equipment?

The role has a high degree of responsibility as you will be providing all the necessary advice, guidance and support to bereaved families and you will be responsible for the efficiency and dignity of the funeral arrangements. The position requires the candidate to be a positive team player, have excellent communication skills, along with high standards of integrity and personal presentation. You will have the ability to offer a professional, empathetic, and compassionate approach to our families. You must be able to work rostered duties, including after hours and weekends and have a full clean driver’s licence and be a confident driver. Whilst previous experience is preferred, we will provide full training, support and guidance to help establish you in what will be an extremely rewarding career where you will be able to make a valuable contribution to your local communities. If this sounds like you, then please submit your CV and covering letter, outlining your background and relevant skills for the role.

Raewyn Proctor – Location Manager raewyn.proctor@resthavenfunerals.co.nz

Drivers Required Driving Miss Daisy Pakuranga

We are looking for motivated companion drivers in the Pakuranga area. You will require a passenger licence and a first-aid certificate or be willing to obtain these. Flexible work hours and some weekend work may be available.

Please contact Anne McClean Ph: 09 537 1452 Mob: 027 472 9921 pakuranga@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

POLITICIANS

HOWICK LOCAL BOARD:

• Peter Young JP

– Board Member 027 587 4888

• Mike Turinsky

– Board Member 021 804 742

• Adele White

– Board Member 021 284 3843

• John Spiller

– Board Member 021 286 7666

• Bruce Kendall, MBE

– Board Member 021 198 1380

• David Collings

– Board Member 027 576 2350

• Katrina Bungard

– Board Member 0800 528 286

• Bo Burns

– Deputy Chairperson 021 197 5849

• Damian Light

– Chairperson 027 276 3822

MPs:

• Parmjeet Parmar MP Parmjeet.Parmar@parliament.govt.nz

• Simeon Brown Pakuranga MP Simeon.Brown@parliament.govt.nz

• Christopher Luxon Botany MP Christopher.Luxon@parliament. govt.nz

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

• James Lee 021 682 262

• Garry Nicholls 021 371 370

• Gary Stone 027 478 6639

• Peter Sheerin 021 908 633

• Jenny Rowsell 021 721 123

• Sue Rossiter 027 451 8880

• Kevin Richards 027 341 9599

• Fazilat Rashid 021 708 7176

• Toni Osborne 027 533 9383

• Sue Mooy 021 488 749

• Brij Mathur 027 493 1211

• Alan Martin 021 944 681

• Desai Link 021 717 739

• Chris Kentsley 021 786 923

• Benifer Irani 021 037 7222

• Ausaga Imoa 022 426 5561

• Gloria Gardner 022 352 5144

• Jannette Brown 021 075 7687

• Kevin Berry 021 666 473

• Brian Stocking  0274 859 054

• Ian Gibson 0272 084 664

CHARITY SHOPS

• The Charity Boutique

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

QUICK NO. 8171

Across - 6, Allegiance. 8, Vary. 9, Edge. 10, Plume. 11, Leek. 12, Crocodile. 16, Elegantly. 20, Lass. 22, Crude. 23, Exam. 24, Roar. 25, Accustomed. Down - 1, Glider. 2, Beseech. 3, Limpid. 4, Annual. 5, Level. 7, Greek. 13, Ire. 14, Envelop. 15, Major. 17, Launch. 18, Grease. 19, Leaden. 21, Scrap.

CRYPTIC NO. 8171

Across - 6, C-hapte-r one. 8, Darn. 9, Peke (peek). 10, Ra-I-se. 11, Some. 12, Staircase. 16, Mortal sin. 20, Arch. 22, Ali-bi. 23, Wane (Wayne). 24, S-can. 25, Deliberate. Down - 1, Th-RE-at. 2, O-pheli-a. 3, C-E-Dric. 4, Copies. 5, Cedes (seeds). 7, Trump. 13, Air. 14, Glowers. 15, Brace. 17, O-riole. 18, Tri-L-by. 19, Ignite (anag.). 21, H-and-y.

- 65 Picton St, Howick

• Hospice Shop Howick

- 61 Picton St, Howick

• SPCA Op Shop Howick

- 6/15 Cook St, Howick

• Hato St John

- 7/219 Moore St, Howick

• Howick Presbyterian Church Op Shop - 11 Vincent St, Howick

• The Barn, 474 Pakuranga Rd, Half Moon Bay

• Hospice Op Shop - 42A Ben Lomond Cres, Pakuranga

• Eastgate Centre - 9 Ben Lomond Cres, Pakuranga

• Garage Op Shop - 96 Udys Rd, Pakuranga

• St Columba Op Shop

- 480 Ti Rakau Dr, Botany

• The Hope Shop - 219 Burswood Dr, Burswood

• Salvation Army Family Store - 287 Botany Rd, Golflands

• SPCA Op Shop Botany - Unit 43/277 Te Irirangi Dr, Flat Bush

• SPCA East Tāmaki ClearanceCnr Springs Rd & Kerwyn Ave, East Tāmaki

• Salvation Army Ti Rakau298 Ti Rakau Dr, East Tāmaki

• Luckys Book Shop - 27 Lady Ruby Dr, East Tāmaki

• Habitat for Humanity - 8 Ormiston Rd, Ōtara

• Twice Loved Op Shop - 102 Maraetai Drive Maraetai

• Coastal Treasures - 41 Third View Ave, Beachlands

• SPCA Op Shop Beachlands - 42 Kouka Rd, Beachlands

•

•

•

FIND YOUR AGENT

HAPPY NEW PEARS