Channel Magazine April 2024

Featured Listings & Recent Transactions

Shoneet Chand & Matt Prentice

Immaculate 2,352sqm Office + Warehouse Option

44 Arrenway Drive, Rosedale, Auckland

2,352 sqm top quality offices

1,012 sqm high stud warehouse (optional)

74 car parks (incl 38 basement)

Potential to divide office area

Activity has picked up late in the first quarter of 2024, with a number of quality of listings across all commercial sectors throughout the Auckland market.

From high density development sites, commercial office offerings, premium industrial assets and well positioned retail, we have presented a number of sale campaigns, both on and off market. Although purchasers are generally being more cautious, quality product is generating good enquiry and we are at a stage in the market where the tide is starting to turn with OCR cuts on the horizon. The Reserve Bank indicated they believe inflation will be approximately 3% by September 2024 and our opinion is that cuts will follow shortly after.

We have sold and leased a number of properties already this year, and are working on many more. If you would like to discuss your requirement, or have a confidential discussion, please do not hesitate to give either Shoneet or Matt a call on their details below.

Shoneet Chand Director | Investment Sales

+64 21 400 765

shoneet.chand@colliers.com

Matt

+64 21 464 904

matt.prentice@colliers.com

Liability insurance: Your shield against unexpected claims

Running a business involves its fair share of risks. The right liability insurance can help protect your business, whether you’re a large company or sole trader, from a wide range of costly and unforeseen risks.

Rothbury offers a variety of comprehensive liability insurance solutions. If you need a second opinion on what risks your business may be dealing with, please contact a local insurance expert like the Rothbury Insurance Brokers North Shore team.

Examples where liability insurance can help protect you:

• Public liability insurance: Employees, or the products you sell or manufacture have accidentally caused harm to someone else or their property. The third party could take legal action against the business to cover the cost of the damages. Repair or replacement costs for the damaged property and legal defence fees can be covered under public liability insurance.

• Statutory liability insurance: An employee of a construction business is operating a forklift onsite when they crash and injure themselves and a colleague. The employee did not have proper training to operate the forklift and the business could be held liable for the injuries of the people involved in the incident and any other damages under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. Legal and defence costs can be covered under statutory liability insurance.

What are the benefits of liability insurance?

Liability insurance can help reduce the financial impact following a liability insurance claim. Depending on your policy, it can cover:

• costs to investigate and defend allegations

• legal defence fees

• repair or replacement costs for damaged property or possessions

• reimbursement of financial loss caused by employee dishonesty or fraudulent acts

• legal and settlement costs arising from a wrongful act claim against the business

• compensation payments for injuries or damage caused by your products or services

In some cases, liability insurance is not just a good idea, but a requirement. It is usually mandatory to have at least public liability insurance before entering into contracts or visiting worksites.

Have you considered management liability insurance?

Management liability is an all-in-one insurance solution, which combines multiple liability solutions into one comprehensive policy. It can help ensure you are protected against a variety of risks that may arise from both the day-to-day management and operation of your company. A management liability insurance solution may include:

• cyber liability

• directors and officers' liability

• professional indemnity

• public liability

• statutory liability

Quality advice from locals

It’s important that your business has the right insurance cover in place. The Rothbury North Shore team is committed to providing personal service and quality advice and has 10 dedicated insurance brokers based right here on Auburn Street in Takapuna.

With local knowledge and insurance expertise, they can tailor an insurance policy to enhance your financial resilience and give your business the best chance to thrive.

If you have any concerns about your current insurance, or want a second opinion about your insurance, contact your local Rothbury North Shore team today.

09 914 9800

Level 1, 7 Auburn Street, Takapuna rothbury.co.nz/branch/north-shore

ANDREW DORREEN

Substantial lakefront home - ready for you!

6 ERIC PRICE AVENUE, TAKAPUNA

For those privileged enough to be at the highest end of the market and who are looking for the pinnacle of lakefront living, the opportunity at 6 Eric Price Avenue cannot be overlooked. Situated on a full site of 749m2 the home has direct access to the lakefront.

Access to the beach is via Audrey Lane just across the road, and this is one of the shortest distances between the lake and sea. The property was extensively renovated in 2015 to a very high standard and offers new cladding, new doubleglazed joinery, and all-new interiors. The home offers a generous floor area of approximately 450m2 arranged over three separate levels, capturing expansive lake views from each level, and providing space and separation.

The top floor comprises the master suite that captures panoramic lake views, with his and hers walk-in wardrobes and a very spacious modern ensuite. Also on this level is a second bedroom with an ensuite bathroom which would suit young families if accommodation needed to be near the master. The mid-level features open-plan living, dining and kitchen, and access to a private barbeque area and courtyard. This area is the heart of the home with a very long feature island bench, top quality appliances including Wolf double ovens and a subzero fridge/freezer.

Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ

Licenced under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

The dining area also has a fitted bar, again with top appliances. Timber flooring and a gas fireplace add a feeling of warmth to this expansive space. There is a guest toilet/ powder room, and another very generous "second master" bedroom, with an ensuite, and the views from this level are outstanding. This gives people the opportunity to live on one level if required. A separate media room and office, both with outdoor flow to the courtyard area, and an internal access double garage complete this level.

The lower level comprises a further two bedrooms, one with ensuite and another separate bathroom, laundry area, kitchenette/bar and third living area. This space can also be closed off from the main house, ideal for extended families. The living space flows out to the pool and outdoor entertaining areas.

The swimming pool area is a magnificent place. Complete with a spa pool, substantial decking, and themed coconut hut bar, it is an ideal space to relax and entertain.

Positioned in a quiet cul-de-sac off the famed Golden Mile, approximately halfway between Milford and Takapuna, everything is within short walking distance. It is zoned for top local schools, both Westlake Boys and Girls and Takapuna Grammar. This is the ultimate in family lakefront living! precision.net.nz/ID #570720

Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / Phone: 021 747 334 / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com

Exquisite lakefront living in North Shore's best address

15 LAKE VIEW ROAD, TAKAPUNA

Built over two years by the current owners with exquisite architectural design and a focus on quality and attention to detail, 15 Lake View Road is quite simply the epitome of waterfront living. Lake View Road is considered one of the North Shore's very best addresses for its large land holdings, sun orientation, unsurpassed privacy and proximity to the CBD.

Constructed of solid masonry with a concrete mid-floor, this idyllic property offers excellent accommodation and a choice of living spaces with a layout that will suit all family demographics.

Five double bedrooms, three sprawling living areas and direct access to Lake Pupuke make this home one of the best lakefront homes to come to the market publicly this decade. The home lies on a 1,244 m² site, which is beautifully landscaped, providing easy access to the water and a large deck and jetty. This magical spot houses a large dining table set and loungers, making a specific area to lunch, entertain, and deploy water toys.

On entry to the dwelling, you are captured by a generous internal courtyard with a heated swimming pool and spa. This brings significant amounts of

natural light back through the home in the afternoon and provides another sitting area sheltered from all winds. The main living offers great open plan space with timeless modern interiors and gorgeous American oak flooring. This area flows out to a louvre-covered deck with a framed view of the lake plus out to the pool in the other direction. Also, on this main living floor, fronting the courtyard, is a large media room with a 120" screen, projector, surround sound and newly installed wet bar.

Above this floor are two bedrooms, which overlook the courtyard from above and share a large family bathroom. These rooms would be perfect for teenage children who want some separation from their parents. On the ground floor, you have a large master suite with a walkin wardrobe and ensuite plus two additional bedrooms which share a family bathroom.

precision.net.nz/ID #550882

Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the golden mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last six consecutive calendar years, Andrew has sold over $100 million each year, at an average of over $5,000,000 per property – one of the highest (in volume and average sale price) residentially in the country. While he is renowned for dealing with higher value properties, Andrew has also carved a niche in the seaward side streets in and around Milford and Takapuna, especially with the lock-up-and-leave market. He sees a strong correlation between larger homes and the downsizer market assisting those vendors with their next purchase. If you are thinking of selling your home or purchasing a new one, please contact Andrew for a confidential discussion.

It’s hard to believe it’s April and a third of 2024 has come and gone. It seems like only yesterday that we were celebrating the new year. Time flies when you’re having fun!

Our April issue is another cracker, filled with lots of good things happening north of the Harbour Bridge.

In this issue we focus on a few key things: Mother’s Day coming up early in May, Autumn Fashion and Style, and Retirement Living.

For Mother’s Day we chat with four Shore mums and get their perspective on what Sunday 12 May will mean to them.

We have many clever people and good businesses in the fashion and style space on the North Shore, and many are included in this issue.

I’m a real fan of retirement villages and enjoyed visiting two of our local villages to talk to men about their retirement lifestyles. And clearly Rob, Brad, Bill, and Leigh are loving it. I am sure you will enjoy my chat with them.

I feel that Anzac Day has become a more important day as the years go on, as we remember those who served to preserve our way of life in conflicts around the world. More and more people are attending the commemorations. We include information in this issue of what is happening on the Shore on Anzac Day, Thursday 25 April.

I had a great deal of pleasure interviewing

Publisher/Advertising

Phil Brosnan, founder of North Shore business Brosnan Construction. I can remember Phil coming to me with the brand-new logo a family member had developed for his business when he was launching back in 2010. Fourteen years on he has built a business that employs over 350 people throughout the country. Brosnan has established a reputation for its expertise in some specialist areas of construction. It’s a great story and one I enjoyed capturing as Phil is now stepping back from the business.

There’s lots to read in this issue covering many topics, including real estate, charities, theatre and the arts, eating out, interior design, shopping, logistics, local government, shopping centres, mother’s day, beauty, fashion and style, footwear, skincare, travel, Pilates, fitness, audiology, dental hygiene, sleeping, Anzac Day, retirement living, insurance, business, electrical, gardening, politics, health, events, motor vehicles, property, youth, schools and education, trusts, accounting and finance, law, history, community news, business association news, bowls, grumbling and more!

Enjoy your April 2024 Channel Mag.

Aidan Bennett, QSM

Publisher – Channel Magazine Managing Director – Benefitz aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Advertising/Content Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz

Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz

Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz

Online and Social Media Klaudia Nam klaudia@benefitz.co.nz

monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz.

x

Liz Cannon, Aidan Bennett, Crystal Sharp, Leanika Starbuck, Kim McIntosh

NZ Sculpture OnShore raises record sum for Women’s Refuge NZ

The Friends of Women’s Refuges Trust hosted a wonderful celebratory event at the Navy Museum, Devonport on Thursday 14 March, at which they announced a record-breaking $350,000 donation to New Zealand Women’s Refuge from the proceeds of the NZ Sculpture OnShore 2023 exhibition. The large-scale exhibition which took place at Operetu Fort Takapuna in November last year attracted 21,000 visitors – the biggest turnout in the exhibition’s 27-year history. Friends of NZ Women’s Refuges Trust chair Rachel Brebner said, "The Trust is extremely grateful for the donation, which exceeds all targets and expectations. Everyone involved was determined to go the extra mile knowing they were helping to create brighter futures for women and children affected by domestic violence.” Women’s Refuge NZ CEO Dr Ang Jury said she has been amazed by the dedication and generosity of everyone involved. NZ Sculpture OnShore, since its inception in 1996, has raised more than $2.6 million for Women’s Refuge NZ. This has been made possible through the long-standing support of principal sponsor Fisher Funds, and gold sponsors Hesketh Henry and Harcourts Cooper & Co. Channel Mag and Benefitz have been honoured to once again support NZ Sculpture OnShore. Huge congratulations!

021 937 470

libby.greenwood@bayleys.co.nz

Libby is grateful to those who have entrusted her to assist them through the selling and buying process of their homes. Together with Bayleys, it is a formidable team.

She is Passionate about achieving results for her clients.

Watch out for Libby’s New Listings coming this month

Residential

Brian Dewar, Penny Hartill, Victoria Holtelius, Sally Dewar, Jenni Ryan

Ian Cunliffe, Martin Cooper

Warren Bias, Fiona Buchanan, Dr Ang Jury

Zeyna Jalil, Ana Atkinson

Alan Sherlock, Rachel Brebner, Dr Ang Jury, Nick Gillies

Jo Eve, Peter Wilson, Megan Botzen

Sally Dewar, Dr Ang Jury

Natalie and Ross Aitken

Trisha Whiting, David Russell-Jones

Paul Walsh, Wendy Carnall, Marcus Wild

Dr Ang Jury, Rachel Brebner

El Schutte, Judy Pullen, Nick Gillies

Big Buddy long lunch at Fantail & Turtle

Popular bar and eatery Fantail & Turtle has once again hosted a long lunch, on Wednesday 20 March, in support of Big Buddy. Travis Field, the big-hearted owner of Fantail & Turtle, is also the chairman of the Big Buddy Trust. The capacity crowd of over 110 guests enjoyed a superb four-course meal matched with a fine selection of drinks, and raised over $50,000 to support boys without their dads in their lives. Speakers included celebrity restauranteur Michael Dearth and Big Buddy CEO Jason Judkins. The crowd also enjoyed hearing from Big Buddy Mark Withers and his Little Buddy’s mum Jody Cooke who has seen first-hand the benefits of the programme on her boy’s life. The charity screens and matches good guys from the community with boys who don’t have their dad in their lives, making a huge positive difference to their resilience and confidence. Another wonderful fundraising event at Fantail & Turtle for an amazing cause, with more to come from Travis and his team!

Jason Judkins

Travis Field

Michale Dearth, Travis Field

Brett Russell, Stefan Young, Will Deihl

David Plummer, Tom Talbot, Sally O’Brien

Christie Stuart, Mark Withers, Jody Cooke

Travis Field, Greg Smale, Jim Speedy, Brett Russell, Grant Fox

Emma Butcher, Angela Evans, Stuart Wellm, Judy Babulal

Brian Funnell, Michael Stanton, Ben Gibbens

Amanda Wilson, Kathryn Robertson

Gala night at the Rose Centre's inaugural RC Rangitahi production

The Rose Centre hosted the gala evening for the opening of the RC Rangitahi's inaugural amateur production on Friday 15 March. Under the direction of the Rose Centre's Geoff Allen, this talented group of local youth aged between 16 and 25 collaborated to perform their version of Shakespeare's timeless masterpiece, 'Twelfth Night'. It was a wonderful evening of culture, entertainment and celebration. The Youth Shakespeare Troupe diligently created, rehearsed and remixed one of Shakespeare's funniest plays to bring this classic comedy to life with true originality. What a fantastic production it was – ka pai to cast and crew!

Janet

Si'ai Faulalo, Māui and Jessie Hitchens, Lisa Brickell

Suzy Sampson, James Bell, Āria Harrison-Sparke Leigh, Margaret, Phia and Lochlan Trembath

Kathy Gent, Sarah Albrecht, Angela Cannon

James Carrick, Chris Smith

Geoff Allen, Stephen Hood Abby Jones, Geraldine Wishart, Rathikka Slick

Maddy Malone, Bobby Catterall, Ann Langis

SEARCHING

Blue Chip business for their next home...

If you own a superbly located commercial property within this area this may be your opportunity to make a direct sale or secure a blue chip long term tenant.

The well-established business looking for this site will consider both options.

Long-term Lease or Purchase

Northern Lincoln Road or Central Park Drive location

Be around 5000 to 6000 square metres

Have great street presence and profile Land to be flat in contour

Dual access onto main road preferred

Can include usable buildings, including large warehouse/s

This business is prepared to purchase or make a long term commitment, so a purposebuilt development will also be an option.

To make contact with the business principal, please email their representative: Paul@GoodwinTurner.co.nz

Please Note: The business is seeking to make contact directly with the property owner in the first instance.

Moxie hosts another fabulous fundraiser

The Anglican Trust for Women and Children was the recipient of a successful fundraising event held at Moxie Restaurant in Birkenhead on Sunday 17 March. The tables were beautifully set for over 80 guests, who enjoyed a sumptuous offering of delicious platters, followed by a main course and dessert. The successful event was generously sponsored by Su Mobley of Barfoot & Thompson, Birkenhead along with Wendy Calder from Calder Lighting & Interior Design. Keynote speaker Tom Webster from Grand Designs wowed the audience with entertaining anecdotes about his grand designs throughout the world. The next fundraising event will be coming soon - book early as these events sell out!

You can count on us every step of the way

Su Mobley, Wendy Calder

Kate Fraser, Tom Webster

Anne Habberfield, Angela Rawson, Geordie Lindsay-Russell

Carol Gilbertson, Dave Winter, Martyn Geary

Gerard Rowe, Pauline Matthews

Mary-Lee and Ross Sale, Steve Hilliar

Nicola Schultz, Jenny and Mel Green

Bridget Hanley, Mike Allan, Pat Kerr

Ian Squire, Phares Ming

Tiena Pratt, Bruce Phythian, Barbara Wright

Cathy Wildermoth, Joan Scott, Jo Meechan, Fiona Hogan

Rob and Rachel Walsham, Mark and Yasman Foley

Victoria Nicol, Paul Wai Poi, Carolyn and Tony Eede

By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation

Final funding drive for healing garden

It’s an exciting time with only a few months remaining before the opening of the new hospital facility, Tōtara Haumaru, on the North Shore hospital campus. As a final push to raise the remaining funds needed for the large-scale indoor healing garden we have two very exciting initiatives to share with you, and we’d love the community’s support.

Join us at Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park

A rare opportunity to explore one of New Zealand's most iconic spots and support your local hospital at the same time! Gibbs Farm is a private property and Well Foundation has been fortunate to secure a visitor day at this spectacular sculpture park spread over 400-hectares of coastal farmland featuring sitespecific artworks commissioned from some of the world’s most celebrated artists.

Join us on Friday 19 April 10am-2pm. Tickets are $85 for adults and $50 for children, with discounted family tickets available. You are welcome to bring your own picnic lunch or simply add a picnic box when selecting your tickets and we’ll have it ready to collect when you

arrive. Only 150 tickets are available so scan the QR code to secure yours today! It’s sure to be a great day out and perfect for entertaining the kids during the school holidays.

Win a super cool UBCO bike

Thanks to UBCO we’re offering the chance to win one of their super cool electric utility bikes worth $7,599! Road-registered and ready for adventure, on and off road, the UBCO 2x2 Adventure Bike is perfect for the urban commuter who dislikes traffic jams, and the weekend adventurer who enjoys the sounds of nature. Raffle tickets are $10 each or three for $20.

One hundred percent of funds raised will support the healing garden project. Visit wellfoundation.org.nz/events to find out more.

Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitakere Hospital info@wellfoundation.org.nz

Well Foundation, 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz

News from The PumpHouse from James Bell

April's arrr-some adventures

As the autumn leaves begin to fall in Killarney Park, The PumpHouse is gearing up for an April packed with excitement, laughter, and a touch of swashbuckling adventure. From piratical escapades to Benedict Cumberbatch fangirls, here's the lowdown of what’s coming to the theatre this month.

First up, from 6–27 April, prepare to be whisked away on a thrilling voyage with Tim Bray Theatre Company's production of The Great Piratical Rumbustification by Margaret Mahy. Shiver me timbers! This rollicking tale promises to ignite the imaginations of young and old alike. Set sail as they bring to life Mahy's beloved story that's sure to leave you shouting, "Yo ho ho!"

Meanwhile, over at Shoreside Theatre, the antics take a decidedly more contemporary turn with Benedict Cumberbatch Must Die by Abby Howells, running from 10–21 April. Join three fans as they hatch a hilariously misguided plan to win the heart of their idol, the one and only Benedict Cumberbatch. With wit, charm, and a healthy dose of obsession, this one-act play offers a riotous exploration of fandom and the lengths we'll go to for love.

Mark your calendars for 22 April for our next Creative Talk featuring Cheryll Martin, QSO. Cheryll is the general manager of Volunteering Auckland – an NGO dedicated to leadership, support, and promotion of volunteering. This event is free; RSVP on our website is required.

And if you're in the mood for some late-night laughs, look no further than Late Night Knife Fight on 26 April. Performed in our Coal Bunker Studio, you’ll get to witness the comedic chaos unfold as three teams face off in a battle for glory and the audience's favour. With improv at its finest, this high-energy showdown guarantees an evening of hilarity.

So, whether you're yearning for high-seas adventure, celebrity shenanigans, or a dose of comedic catharsis, April's lineup has something for everyone. Grab your tīkiti, gather your crew, and head on down to the cutest theatre in Tāmaki Makaurau.

See you at the theatre soon!

James Bell

BOOKINGS: 09 489 8360 or pumphouse.co.nz

DEPOT with Amy Saunders

DEPOT Te Whare Toi, Devonport

DEPOT Shop

As summer draws to a close and we head into autumn we’re very excited to be opening our gallery shop! Supporting local artists and artists from across Aotearoa, we will be selling handcrafted items, including ceramics, cards, jewellery, prints, glassware, toi Māori, homewares, art and art publications. The gallery shop will be open to the public from Friday 5 April, so be sure to visit and support our local makers.

DEPOT Artspace

New Principles

Our second exhibition of 2024, New Principles, is a collection of contemporary furniture from emerging and established makers based in Tāmaki Makaurau. The exhibition includes the work of Emile Drescher, Jeremy Evison, Alex Guthrie, Josephine Jelicich, Raimana Jones and Ted Synnott. This exhibition brings furniture into the public eye not as accessories to a room, but as a highlight. Embracing the high level of craftsmanship that has been developed to create each piece elevates this furniture to objects of fine art.

DEPOT Sound

Depot Sound is proud to present two exciting initiatives in April, including a collaborative and hands-on songwriting workshop for emerging songwriters, and an audio production workshop for female and non-binary musos. With access to Depot Sound’s recording studios and feedback from industry professionals, you’ll expand your skills, confidence, and networks. Visit depot.org.nz/sound for full info on both workshops and to register today

DEPOT Collective

We’re excited to be officially launching the Depot Collective, our new membership programme designed to support our creative community while offering unique benefits for members, including invitations to special events, priority bookings for workshops and classes and a 10% discount on our new gallery shop. If you want to explore our membership options and benefits you can find out more on our website. We would love to welcome you to our creative community.

Stay in touch by subscribing to our newsletter at depot.org.nz to keep up to date with all things Depot, including exhibition openings, live music performances, workshops, creative opportunities and more!

Get involved and shine on stage!

The National Youth Theatre (NYT) is New Zealand’s premier musical theatre training programme for young people aged 7-21, with many of our very own North Shore kids starring in its wonderful productions and attending its holiday programmes. Channel Mag's Liz Cannon caught up with two local lads who've had a wealth of experience at NYT, and who share their insights for those wanting to get involved.

Channel Mag: Tell us about your involvement with NYT.

Seamus Ford: I first got involved with NYT back in 2007, when I saw their production of Alice in Wonderland. As a result of seeing that amazing show, I signed up for one of the NYT holiday programmes. After a few years of performing in the NYT shows, I got the chance to join the direction and teaching team. I haven't looked back since!

Conor Sheridan: I have been a part of NYT for the past nine years and I am now participating in my fifteenth production! I've also been part of the Triple Threat classes which have helped me tremendously.

What's been a highlight for you?

SF: A highlight was the last time I was a cast member when I got the chance to play Pharaoh in our 2012 production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. It was such a fun role in such a colourful, vibrant production, and I’m really enjoying watching it come to life for our show week at the Aotea Centre in June 2024 with this new cast.

CS: The highlight for me in each and every show I've been involved in, is the final weeks of the process, getting to spend more time on the show, seeing the final product coming together, and then performing it all in a fully professional theatre.

What's coming up next for you?

SF: A busy time! We have a jam-packed April school holiday coming up when we run our usual AllStars musical theatre holiday programme at the Rose Centre in Belmont. We are also running a new programme where we are putting together a whole musical in a week, bringing the New Zealand premiere of Diary of a Wimpy Kid to the Dorothy Winstone Centre stage. After the holidays we will be continuing our weekly classes at the Rose Centre, while we keep prepping for Joseph at the Aotea Centre in June.

CS: I am currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in engineering, but I plan to continue to perform in any way I can so I never lose the great memories I’ve made.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get involved?

SF: The best thing anyone who wants to get involved can do is to give it a go! Whether it’s joining a group at school or signing up for one of our many programmes, the best thing you can do is to put yourself out there and try it! If you throw yourself into it with an open mind you’ll be amazed at what you find in yourself.

CS: My best advice for anyone who wants to join NYT or pursue theatre is to give it your all. The most fun you can have is the fun that you find in it!

To find out more about the National Youth Theatre and all the programmes it offers please visit nyt.nz or email info@nyt.nz

Seamus Ford, and as Pharaoh (inset)

Conor Sheridan as Joseph

Seamus Ford, Conor Sheridan

Ahoy, me hearties!

Tim Bray Theatre Company presents a beloved

Margaret Mahy tale

North Shore local leading children’s theatre company Tim Bray Theatre Company is thrilled to introduce the first show in its 2024 season, Margaret Mahy’s The Great Piratical Rumbustification!

Following on from their soldout Christmas extravaganza The Santa Claus Show, the company joyfully brings its unique brand of on-stage joy to delight Tāmaki Makaurau’s youngest theatre-lovers across the region. Continuing its dedication in making theatre accessible for all audiences, the vibrant and engaging performance will head to Takapuna, Manukau and Māngere, starting at The PumpHouse Theatre from 6 – 27 April.

Building on the success of Tim Bray Theatre Company’s 2012 and 2017 productions of The Great Piratical Rumbustification, mayhem ensues in this rollicking, rumbunctious escapade that promises the most fun you’ve had walking the plank in years.

at The PumpHouse Theatre

Shiver me timbers! The pirates are restless, yearning for a grand piratical adventure. “Oh, for a pirate party!” they proclaim. But, as any good sea dog knows, a proper pirate party must be a stolen one. Join our young hero, Oliver Terrapin, as he opens the doors of his oblivious parents’ home for a party – a party with real pirates!

Shiver me timbers! The pirates are restless, yearning for a grand piratical adventure.

Tim Bray Theatre Company continues its commitment to delivering captivating and engaging productions that spark the imaginations of young minds.

This swashbuckling stage performance promises to be a journey filled with laughter, music, and oar-some performers including Dylan Underwood (The Twits, The Santa Claus Show), Kat Glass (The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch, Badjelly the Witch), Terry Hooper (The Twits, The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch), Christian George (The Whale Rider, The Santa Claus Show), Rebecca Ansell (The Santa Claus Show), Francesca Browne (Greedy Cat, The Twits), Grant Zent a former TBTC Youth Theatre actor (The Santa Claus Show), and newcomers to the

company, Kazim Khan and Verity George.

“Perhaps [Tim] Bray’s most noteworthy quality as an adapter/ director of children’s stories is his uncanny ability to find the essence of the works he adapts and to find ways to translate this to the stage. His work with Mahy’s quirky creations is no exception. It’s been my pleasure to see many of [Tim] Bray’s children’s theatre works but I have to say The Great Piratical Rumbustification is quite simply his best effort yet and it’s all down to harmony.” – Lexie Matheson, Theatreview

Accessibility and inclusion continue to be at the forefront of the company’s programming, with Sensory Relaxed, NZSL Interpreted and Audio Described performances available for The Great Piratical Rumbustification so that all young voyagers can come along on this adventure.

If you love Tim Bray Theatre Company and you want to support it even further, you can support its just-launched fundraiser, the Theatre for All Appeal, to combat the challenges facing children's theatre amidst a cost-of-living crisis, economic difficulties, and funding cuts. Find out more at timbray.org.nz/theatre-for-all-appeal/

Catch the show at The PumpHouse Theatre from 6 – 27 April, before it heads to Due Drop Event Centre 30 April – 4 May, and Māngere Arts Centre - Nga Tohu o Uenuku 7 – 11 May.

Book your tickets now for The Great Piratical Rumbustification at timbray.org.nz and get along to this pirate party!

Empowered, confident, humble. Ready.

Now is the time to make sure your teenager is in the best possible environment to maximise their potential.

Kristin Senior School offers NCEA and International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma pathways, allowing students to choose a curriculum to suit their learning styles and career goals. Our small class sizes facilitate focus and excellent levels of one-on-one attention, and our passionate educators provide a positive, inspirational environment for students to thrive.

kristin.school.nz

Kristin is located at 360 Albany Highway, Albany, with dedicated buses across Auckland.

Delivering an authentic slice of Italian hospitality...

A new Italian dining experience has arrived on the North Shore - San Marco Trattoria & Bar, in the heart of Wairau Valley

San Marco Trattoria & Bar is a new dining experience that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, a welcoming place where food is made in an authentic, homemade style and is accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. Benvenuti!

The San Marco team offers their story of departing Italy, travelling around the world, and docking in New Zealand, bringing to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. The idea for the trattoria began with the wish to share the cuisine and customs of their old hometown with their new home, Aotearoa. The menu has so many delightful Italian dishes that you'll be spoiled for choice. Choose from any of the following, and allow your tastebuds to be tantalised with the authentic flavours of Italy.

Fresh pasta: Spaghetti, tagliatelle, ravioli, gluten-free gnocchi, all made by hand with love, like Nonna used to.

Pizzeria: Authentic Roman-style pizza. High hydration and the long resting time of the handmade dough guarantees a thin, crispy base, light crust and a moist and cheesy top. Good quality ingredients finish up the magic: spicy salamé, handcrafted buffalo mozzarella, homemade pork sausage, fresh seafood and more.

Café: Perfectly brewed coffee, fresh juices, smoothies and homemade pastries with delicious breakfast offerings.

Gelateria and patisserie: Creamy gelatos and dairy-free fruit sorbets made in-house, plus cakes and desserts.

The bar and happy hour from 3-7pm: Stocking a wide range of Italian and international wines, beers on tap and cocktails. Our garden is the perfect place to enjoy the sun and sip your afternoon away while nibbling on our snacking menu.

The garden: Our bright and spacious indoor garden is perfect for private functions and events, seating up to 45 people on spacious high tables and comfy bar stools.

Takeaways: The whole menu is available for pick-up. Order via our website, DoorDash, UberEats, or just give us a call.

San Marco Trattoria & Bar - delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our hearts to your table.

231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley

09 216 7163

sanmarco.tamata@gmail.com sanmarco.co.nz

facebook instagram @sanmarcoauckland Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Bookings are available online or call 09 216 7163

Opening hours: Wed-Fri 11am-late, Sat-Sun 10am-late Happy hour 3-7pm. Dinner service starts at 5pm. Kitchen closes at 9pm

Shore ON THE Eating Out

Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.

Devonport

Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant

Offering Persian and Mediterranean cuisine. 5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz

Buona Sera Restaurant

Serving authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz

Cafe Hung Viet

Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. cafehungviet.co.nz

Calimero

Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232.

Corellis

Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafe.co.nz

Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery

The best of Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. 71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz

Devon on the Wharf

Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. 1 Queen's Parade. 09 445 7012. devononthewharf.nz

Flying Rickshaw

Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz

Khana on the Shore

Indian cuisine. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546 /021 689 216. khana.co.nz

Manuka Cafe and Restaurant

Mediterranean inspired cuisine. 49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz

Portofino Devonport

26 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3777. portofinodevonport.co.nz

Signal Hill

Serves classic NZ fare. 24 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0193. signalhill.co.nz

The Kestrel

1/1 Queens Parade, Devonport Wharf. 09 445 1777. thekestrel.co.nz

The Patriot (Pub)

14 Victoria Rd, 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz

Vic Road Kitchen

57-59 Victoria Rd. 09 445 9797. vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar

53/55 Victoria Road. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz

Vondel

Vegan and omni eats, 8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz

Belmont/Bayswater

Daily Bread

Freshly baked loaves and perfect pastries 43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz

XO Takapuna

Asian skewers and street style food. 333 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com

DEVONPORT

Devonport Indian Hub

Classic Indian and Asian fusion cuisine. Be welcomed by owner Kushal and chef Bikram when you arrive at this friendly new restaurant. As a service-orientated establishment, we love meeting and getting to know our guests and are happy to answer any questions. With over 20 years' experience providing authentic Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisine, we love sharing our exquisite meals - allow yourself to be enveloped by aromatic spices, pure meats, and homemade naan and lassi.

Open 7 days a week, 11am-9.30pm 71 Victoria Road, Devonport devonportindianhubnz@gmail.com devonportindianhub.co.nz 09 445 4263

The Kestrel

Located on Devonport Wharf, The Kestrel serves modern New Zealand pub food at its finest and a great range of drinks from a stunning wharf-side location. Our sun-soaked venue is the perfect place to enjoy cocktails, tap beers, wines, a locally inspired menu and live entertainment with views out over Auckland Harbour.

1 Queens Parade, Devonport 09 445 1777

admin@thekestrel.co.nz thekestrel.co.nz

Tuesday: 4pm-9pm

Wednesday-Sunday: 12pm-late

Fantail & Turtle

Fantail & Turtle is a fiercely independent, award winning bar with an offering that proudly showcases local excellence. Expect fresh craft beer & cider pouring from 15 taps, a wine list covering local and far away regions that is synonymous with varietal eminence, a meticulously matched gin list enhanced with botanics picked from on-site gardens & bespoke cocktails that taste as good as they look. Paired with a menu designed to share, showcasing sustainable & locally sourced seasonal produce. If that's not enough, we've even got handbag hooks!

hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz instagram fantailandturtle

Smales Farm, Takapuna

Fantail & Turtle – Popular bar and eatery with alfresco vibe and great food! 09 486 0644 fantailandturtle.co.nz

Shake Out Burgers – 09 489 8223. shakeout.co

Soho Thai – 09 972 2711. sohothaikitchen.com

The Grange Bar & Bistro

A favourite all-day bar and bistro. 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz

Takapuna

Alforno Italian Restaurant

34 Anzac Street. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz

Aubergine Restaurant

European and Mediterranean, 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz

Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar

Italian eatery, Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz

Burger Burger

Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz

Catch 21 Eatery

Serving exceptional coffee, staple café offerings and fine seafood.

33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. catch21.co.nz

Centro Café

447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277

Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta

Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz

El Humero

Colombian-style barbecue. Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz

Florrie McGreals Irish Pub

138 Hurstmere Road. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz

Flourish Café

Coffee with a conscience, service with a smile! Help Project Employ trainees fulfil their goal of gaining employment. 19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz

Francs Bar & Diner

Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. joylab.co.nz/francs

French Rendez-Vous

French bistro-creperie serving delicious traditional French favourites, gluten free galettes and sweet crêpes. 2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009.

french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site

Hops & Claret Drinkery

136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330 hopsandclaret.co.nz

Nanam

Filipino flavours. 178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz

Regatta Bar & Eatery

Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta

Sakebar Nippon

Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style). 32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz

Taylors on Hurstmere

Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar. 168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz

The Elephant Wrestler

138 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 8030. joylab.co.nz/elephant-wrestler

Tok Tok Kitchen

Asian fusion cuisine. 129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3988. toktok.co.nz

Tokyo Bay

Modern Japanese cuisine. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz

TAKAPUNA

Centro

Welcome to our 'home away from home' cosy haven, where smiles abound with friendly service, exceptional coffee and delectable cuisine. Each customer becomes part of our extended family, savouring not only the taste of our offerings but also the heartfelt care that accompanies every visit. Step into our café and let us wrap you in a comforting embrace of hospitality and flavours that delight the senses.

Mon-Sun, 7am-3pm.

No surcharge on public holidays

447a Lake Road, Takapuna 09 200 2277

centroauckland@gmail.com facebook @centrotakapuna instagram @centrotakapuna

French Rendez-Vous

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (to be booked 24 hours in advance) with traditional French dishes like beef bourguignon and also lots of gluten free galettes and sweet crêpes.

Located at the heart of Takapuna. Book at www.french-rendez-vouscaferestaurant.business.site

Or via our Facebook and Instagram accounts: facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna instagram: @frenchrendezvoustakapuna

2a Manurere Avenue

Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna 09 487 0009

Hops & Claret Drinkery

A premium bar with amazing tapas and cocktails. Cool and groovy with a distinctive underground vibe, Hops & Claret provides a refreshing retreat in summer and a cozy getaway in winter. Based on over 60 reviews received, Hops & Claret proudly scores 5 stars for food and 5 stars for service. Perfect for small functions or social occasions, catering for up to 40 people. Opens 3pm Wednesday-Saturday.

136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330

hello@hopsandclaret.co.nz hopsandclaret.co.nz facebook @HopsandClaret

TAKAPUNA

TAKAPUNA

Northcote Point

The Engine Room

115 Queen Street. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz

Clarence Rd Eatery

124 Queen Street. 09 480 9600. clarencerdeatery.nz

Northcote Tavern

One of the best places for pub food on the Shore! 37 Queen Street. 09 480 7707. northcotetavern.co.nz

Birkenhead

Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano

13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz

Birkenhead Brewing Company

17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi

Blitza Pizza

9 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 5006. blitzapizza.co.nz

Burrito House

Mexican food. 17 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 2095. burritohouse.co.nz

Chef Rasa Sayang

Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Road. 09 419 9788

DIT

Dutch Bistro. 3 Birkenhead Ave. 0274613898. ditisit.co.nz

Flourish Café

Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.

19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266

instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz

facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz

Fika With Me

Cosy café serving funky, flavourful Findianinspired food.

5 Birkenhead Avenue. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme

Jose's Cantina

Mexican. 12-14 Birkenhead Ave. 09 218 6162. josescantina.co.nz

Moxie Restaurant

82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz

Mulan Malaysian Restaurant

243 Hinemoa St. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz

Primerose Thai Cuisine

6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz

Real Burger

30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site

Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant

52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz

Thai Yum Food Hut

23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz

The Curry Master

18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead

The Good Home

83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz

Catch 21 Eatery

Milford

Anokha Indian Restaurant

140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz

Bunty's Burgers

NEW! Gourmet burger bar specialising in smash, chicken and veggie burgers.

89 Kitchener Rd. 09 486 5711

Cave À Vin

146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz

La Mexicana

13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz

Monthien Thai Restaurant

142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz

Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford

212 Kitchener Rd. Phone 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz

PYM's of Milford

The popular neighbourhood Milford Village bar & eatery. Excellent drinks selection with simple but great food. 154 Kitchener Rd. pymsofmilford.com

Stanley Avenue

52 East Coast Rd. 09 410 0066. stanleyavenue.co.nz

Talay Thai Restaurant

83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz

The Hub Milford Bar & Grill

145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz

Takapuna’s latest eatery has just dropped anchor with plenty of sunny outdoor seating overlooking Hurstmere Green. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and coffee for dining in or taking away, the friendly 'crew' are all hands-on-deck to serve exceptional coffee, delicious staple café offerings and a number of seafood options, as well as a beautiful range of freshly made cabinet food. Top picks include their signature open lobster burger, seafood chowder, and tasty eggs benedict. Catch 21 is fully licensed and provides a range of beer, bubbles and wine. Open Tues-Sun, weekdays 7.30am-3pm, weekends 8am-3pm.

Shop 8/33 Hurstmere Road 09 484 0005

catch21.co.nz/menu

CATCH 21

Taylors on Hurstmere

Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre.

Yellow Hour

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily

Perfect for private parties, no venue hire!

Te Kano Wine Tasting Tuesday 9th April. $40 inc 6 tasters and antipasti.

Also open Anzac Day no surcharge.

168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz

09 489 9510

Licenced Eatery

Tokki

Modern Korean restaurant. 87 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0888 tokki.co.nz

The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant 7 Milford Road. 09 488 9388 themilford.co.nz

East Coast Bays

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

37 Clyde Rd, Browns Bay. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz

El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery

1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz

Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar

1 Montrose Terrace, Mairangi Bay. 09 478 9610. montrose.org.nz

Paper Moon

437 Beach Rd, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872. papermoon.org.nz

Ristorante La Spiaggia

Italian. 470 Beach Rd, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643. laspiaggia.co.nz

Wairau Valley

San Marco Trattoria & Bar 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley. 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz

WAIRAUVALLEY

San Marco Trattoria & Bar

Delivering a slice of Italian hospitality on a journey that starts from our heart to your table. This is a place that revisits the traditions of Italian hospitality, where food is made in a homemade style accompanied by loving memories of cooking and bonding over food. The team brings to the table combined hospitality skills, as well as secret family recipes passed down from one generation to the other. Eat, drink, feel good - benvenuti!

Wed-Fri 11am-Late; Sat-Sun 10am-Late. Happy hour 3-7pm.

Dinner service starts at 5pm 231 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 216 7163 sanmarco.co.nz facebook instagram @sanmarcoauckland

BROWNSBAY

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas functions.

37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz

Bunty's Burgers

Try our smash burgers, fried chicken, and in-house smoked pork and beef brisket burgers, with plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options available. There is a modern and adventurous wine list and Behemoth beers on tap. This ain’t your ordinary burger joint!

Bunty’s hour 4.30 - 5.30pm daily $10 food & drink specials

Need an event venue? Talk to us about your next function.

Open Tue from 5pm, Wed-Thu from 4pm, Fri-Sun from midday 89 Kitchener Rd, Milford buntys.co.nz

Fika with Me

If you need a reason to visit Birkenhead, you’ve found it! This cosy café is located at 5 Birkenhead Ave serving Altura coffee and has a funky menu. Chef/owner Deepak, originally from Fiji, has designed the dishes to include flavours inspired from his own heritage. If you’re in the mood to try something unique, this is the place to be.

Call 09 418 5508 to book a table.

Open 5 days a week, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

Wed-Thu-Fri 8am-2.30pm

Sat/Sun 8.30am-3pm

instagram fika_with_me facebook fikawithmebirkenhead @fikawithme

MILFORD

PYM's of Milford

We look forward to welcoming you to our fun local venue, with delicious food and drink options, a fabulous music selection and a warm and friendly ambiance.

Join our email list to keep up to date with all of our upcoming events. Pym's is also available for private and semi-private events. We look forward to seeing you here soon.

154 Kitchener Road

Milford

Wednesday - Sunday from 4pm 021 413 850 / 021 446 628 drink@pymsofmilford.com pymsofmilford.com/

MILFORD

By Natasha Geo, Takapuna North Community Trust Manager

Discover Pupukemoana returns for 2024!

Join us at this free event and take part in a range of activities including kayak tours, snorkel tours, learning experiences for your little ones, a native plant market, and much more. Reach out if you would like more information. We’ll see you there!

We’d love to hear from you! Your voice matters, and we want to hear from you about what's important to preserve our backyard. If you have any feedback on how we serve you or would like to share some ideas, please get in touch with us.

… take part in a range of activities including kayak tours, snorkel tours, learning experiences for your little ones …

takapunatrust.org.nz

Facebook/Instagram: @TakapunaNorthCommunityTrust office@takapunatrust.org.nz 09 486 2098

Supported by:

Four reasons to use an interior designer

Working with a professional interior designer may seem like a big move, but it can ultimately deliver a result far beyond what you imagined, infusing value into your home on the way.

1. Creating a vision. An interior designer can help you create or clarify a clear vision for your home and pinpoint your style. This provides a clear frame of reference for all the choices to be made through the project.

2. Saving your time. The range of choices can be overwhelming. But an interior designer knows what products are available, what works and what doesn’t. We make it easy for you, by sourcing the best options and presenting them to you, removing the headache from the decision-making process.

3. Making your budget go further. An interior designer knows how to get you the best quality for your money and the best items for your budget. And we can help prevent costly mistakes by guiding you to confidently make the right choices for your home. Your home is your investment - you want to get it right.

4. A home you love. The end result will be a space you and your family (and your friends!) will absolutely love! The style, finishings and furnishings have been chosen with care from trusted, quality suppliers and selected specifically for you, your family and your lifestyle to enjoy every day for years to come.

Contact Kirsten for tailored design services, from colours and finishes for new builds and renovations to furniture and furnishing selections, window treatments and styling.

KFD Interiors

027 201 9304

kirsten@kirstenforddesign.com, KFDinteriors.com

instagram @kirsten_ford_design facebook @kirstenforddesign

What’s new in Takapuna

It’s a new year and Takapuna is positively bustling – new square, new treats, new studios, oh my! So read on for our rundown of the best of what’s fresh, and make a date to check it out yourself.

Waiwharariki Anzac Square

Out with the car parks, in with a beautiful new public space. Waiwharariki Anzac Square has been a delightful addition to the Takapuna cityscape this summer, replete with an artistically splashy water feature to cool off the summer heat.

This is a special part of Auckland, perfect for cute little festivals and markets. We love how the space flows and makes room for people to hang out, it really ties Takapuna together.

The best new treats and places to taste

Get a little taste of something delightful at Frenchy’s Crêpes. Bringing la touche française to the Takapuna food scene, these sweet and savoury crêpes are très authentique, and so are the staff.

Break out your Year 9 French and have a go ordering in the lingo, and don’t stress – the Frenchy’s crew are super nice.

There’s a new Luna Bakehouse store open on Hurstmere road, bringing their uniquely tasty pastries to Takapuna. Their Supremes are a must, a stylish wheel croissant absolutely stuffed with flavourful filling – and their celebration cakes are every bit as gorgeous.

Lil Ragú (our fave Italian food truck – maybe just our fave Italian) has found a new home, nestled under the verandah of Wallace Cotton. It’s a cute spot for the humble food truck, and one thing’s for sure: the food is as good as ever.

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

New year, new goals, new places for body and soul

January has been and gone, but some of us are still hanging on to those new year resolutions. If eating healthier is one of yours, check out the natural nutrition powerhouse Together Bespoke Catering café over on Hurstmere road.

The smoothies and nourish bowls absolutely pop, and they taste as good as they look. But what’s really cool is that they do meal prep kits as well, so you can take that feel-good glow right out of the café and into your own kitchen.

Keep an eye out for the opening of O-Studio in Takapuna, a new inclusive space for training body and mind. O-Studio offers flotation therapy, sauna, ice baths, massage and more. Sounds like the perfect place to unwind and let off a little back-towork steam.

Now you’re looking good on the inside, Lashury can help you look good on the outside. After all, maybe you want a little more beauty in your new year, too.

Opening a new store in Hurstmere Road (where it’s all happening!) Lashury takes your unique look and emphasises the natural beauty of your eyes, lashes and brows.

And while we’re at it, maybe it’s time to take up a new hobby too.

Did you know…

You can learn to sail right here in Takapuna? The Takapuna Boating Club runs courses and workshops on sailing and paddling for kids and adults. Plus, check out their social breakfasts on the weekend to make new seafaring friends..

Glow up: our Takapuna pamper guide!

What to do when it feels like that work-life is in full swing and the holidays feel a little distant? We say pamper!

Restoke your inner glow and find a little zen in Takapuna, our own little corner of Auckland’s fabulous health, wellbeing and beauty scene.

Relax and unwind

First stop: lose the tension and soak up the warmth.

Slow down in Slöwe Studio’s private saunas in a solo session or with a friend. The clever infrared saunas melt the stress away and leave you feeling bright and light as a feather. Contrast with an ice bath for a sensually shivery experience that’ll leave you charged up and ready for life. First time sweating it out? No problem, the lovely Slöwe team have got your back.

Very soon we’ll be welcoming O-Studio to Takapuna – a new, inclusive wellbeing experience for body and mind.

You can run hot and cold here too with sauna and ice baths, or drift away from your cares and woes with specialty flotation cabins.

Plus, work out those pesky tension knots with a rejuvenating massage.

Speaking of massage, let’s get down to work on those stress points at Relaxology Massage. Whole body, hot stones, neck and back, feet – they’ve got you covered. And with a special “Pamper me” package, it’s like a little vacation right on the table.

More of a Thai massage enthusiast? Sala Thai is here for you with a wonderful traditional experience.

Try the Thai oil treatment and find out why everyone’s calling it the best Thai massage in Auckland!

Beauty up

We’ve nailed our inner glow, so let’s get our outer glow on.

Need that nail art? Lady Pink does absolutely gorgeous work that lasts the distance. Lisa is a total perfectionist with an eye for detail – and it shows. While you’re there, book in for brows and lashes too.

Treat yourself to a luxurious hair and beauty experience at Frenchie & Co. With trend-setting style and class, you’ll leave the salon looking divinely chic.

Thinking of going blonde? Forever Blonde are the experts, with a selection of colour packages for you and your hair needs. Book a premium one-on-one service with a master colourist for an extra special experience.

Brows and lashes need love too! Brow Theory has you looking your best, whether you want to highlight your natural look or go big and bold.

Sculpting, tinting, henna brows and more, the Brow Theory team leave you feeling beautiful and brimming with confidence.

Get those lashes done with the LashnThings team– their work is so so gentle, and the space is super calm and vibey. LashnThings uses vegan-friendly and cruelty-free products, so you can feel 100% positive about your new look.

We’re also loving the new Lashury – only open a few months but already a staple with a fabulous reputation.

Need more beauty in your life? Check out our helpful list of salons and treatments, all right here in Takapuna.

By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and director at Lake Road Electrical

Modernising your kitchen with electrical upgrades

In the world of home improvement, your kitchen is the heart of the action, where culinary magic happens and cherished memories are made. But to keep up with the times and ensure your kitchen remains both practical and stylish, it's time to consider some electrical upgrades. Here's how sprucing up your kitchen's electrical setup can turn it into a modern marvel.

Hardier, more easy-care garden

Native plants which are adapted to New Zealand’s climate can be a great choice for a hardier, more easy-care garden. These are plants that have evolved in New Zealand’s unique climate and so are much more resilient to our weather.

Let's start with lighting. By swapping out those old, energyguzzling bulbs for sleek LED fixtures, you not only brighten up your space but also save on energy bills. Imagine cooking under the warm glow of recessed lights or pendant fixtures – it's like a breath of fresh air for your kitchen's ambiance.

Next up, smart appliances. Picture this: you're on your way home, and with a few taps on your phone, you've preheated the oven for dinner. Smart appliances like wi-fi-enabled refrigerators and voicecontrolled assistants make everyday tasks a breeze, adding a touch of tech-savvy convenience to your kitchen routine.

Now, let's talk entertainment. Why not add some built-in speakers or a home audio system to your kitchen? With music filling the air, cooking becomes a joyous experience, and dinner parties take on a whole new vibe. And if you're feeling fancy, why not throw in a tv or multimedia display for easy access to recipes and cooking tutorials?

Last but not least, power up! With our lives revolving around gadgets, having enough outlets and USB ports in your kitchen is a game-changer. No more battling for charging spots – installing outlets in strategic locations keeps your devices juiced up and ready to go.

So there you have it! With a little electrical TLC, your kitchen can be transformed into a modern marvel, combining functionality with flair.

Lake Road Electrical are trusted Master Electricians servicing Auckland’s North Shore, providing quality residential and commercial electrical work. We can provide expert advice on upgrading your kitchen and home electrics. Call us now for a free consultation.

Lewis Rudall, Lake Road Electrical

09 242 2204

lewis@lakeroadelectrical.co.nz lakeroadelectrical.co.nz

Grasses and flaxes, for example, tend to be very resilient to drought, and there is now a huge choice in colour and size, from deep purples, reds, and browns; to more vibrant greens, yellows, silvers and even pinks.

There are a great variety of hardy shrubs with colourful foliage or flowers, plants such as hebes, coprosma, renga renga, and libertia.

If you want trees with flowers, there are a variety of colours available in different mānuka and kowhai trees.. For statement trees and shrubs its hard to beat the nikau palm, puka and cabbage tree for their unmistakable silhouettes.

For hedging, my personal favourite is the titoki, which looks fantastic when pleached, although five finger, coprosma , ake ake, and most pittosporum also make great hedging options.

Whatever you choose, it’s important to give your plants the best start you can. “It’s better to dig a five-dollar hole for a fifty-cent plant than to dig a fifty-cent hole for a five-dollar plant,” goes the old garden adage and it is true a struggling plant will thrive in good soil, while even a thriving plant will struggle in poor soil.

When planting, dig a hole roughly twice the size of the pot the plant is currently in. This is especially important when planting in clay as it is a lot tougher for roots to work through, add plenty of quality planting mix and compost; a bit of gypsum in the bottom is helpful if it is heavy clay. While you're digging, it's good to have the plant soaking in a seaweed tonic mixture; this helps protect the roots against transplant shock. Make sure to water everything in well once you have finished planting to ensure the soil packs tightly around the plant’s roots.

Amanda Graham

Newhaven Gardens Ltd

021 378969

instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz

Top tips from Amanda Graham, Newhaven Gardens. North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.

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THE SHEEPSKIN FACTORY

Baby essentials - from cosy rugs to adorable shoes, comfy knitwear, cuddly toys and gentle natural skincare.

34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679

thesheepskinfactory.co.nz

9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays

CRAVEHOME

Know a Kindle reader? These clever slip-on straps mean that you can now read your latest book without having to hold on for dear life! Such a simple concept - and such a game changer.

30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz

SPERO CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

New collection from Garcia Born in Italy and raised in the Netherlands Instore now.

19 Mokoia Rd, Birkenhead 09 419 9781 spero.co.nz

PLATYPUS GLENFIELD MALL

‘The most New Balance shoe ever’ says it all, right? No, actually. The 574 has become an icon, worn by everyone and there’s a reason why.

Platypusshoes.co.nz

09 886 7465

RESENE COLORSHOP

FLORIENNE

Welcome to our treasure trove of fresh flowers, custom bouquets, vessels, vases and houseplants

60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz

Get a seamless finish from top to toe in your kitchen. Eco Choice approved Resene AquaLAQ is especially designed for cabinetry, joinery, shop fittings, kitchens and doors and is available in all your favourite Resene colours. Come in and choose your new kitchen colour today at your local Resene ColorShop.

1 Auburn St, Takapuna, 09 489 1540

2 Tawa Drive, Albany, 09 414 6500

8 Croftfield Lane, Wairau Park, 09 444 4387

Project by Mark Bruce Kitchens. Image by Jamie Wright

SHORE PHOTO GIFTS

Perfect gifts for Mothers Day. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz

ECOVASK

Discover Ecovask’s sustainable, chic and totally game-changing solutions for your special someone this Mother’s Day.

Visit our showroom at 56 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna or ecovask.nz

COSI FAN TUTTE

Gorgeous new season The Dreamer Label. The allure of simplicity creating refined yet classic silhouettes.

73 Victoria Road, Devonport, 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz

instagram @cosifantutte_devonport

WALLACE COTTON

YARNTONS

Shop our range of R.M. William boots. These classic boots are crafted for life. See our full range in-store or online!

18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011

69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 yarntons.co.nz

MILLER ROAD FRAGRANCES

Create your own bespoke 30ml bottle of Eau de Parfum at our gorgeous Miller Fragrance Studio located on Auckland's North Shore. 2D Queens Parade, Devonport 09 218 7511 millerroad.co.nz

Create a cosy, comforting home for the cooler months ahead with new bed linen, homeware, sleepwear and loungewear. Designed with love for you and your home, discover sumptuous fabrics and soft textures in moody hues and hand-painted designs to make every day more beautiful. Visit us at 156 Hurstmere Road. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, 09 551 7767

wallacecotton.com

Celebrating Mother’s Day

Sunday 12 May

With Mother’s Day coming up early next month,on Sunday 12 May, we’ve taken the opportunity to chat to some local Shore-based businesswomen and mothers about what the day means to them and how they’ll be celebrating the special day with their families.

Ruth Morse – Well Foundation

Ruth reflects on her important role as a mum

Ruth Morse is the chief executive (interim) for Well Foundation, a charity which harnesses the generosity of the community to support improved patient experiences and outcomes at our two local hospitals; North Shore and Waitākere. Ruth’s married to David, who she met when living in London, and they have two children, Holly (now 20), who was born in London and Charlie (18) who was born at North Shore Hospital. The family has lived in Devonport for 17 years and love their community and the lifestyle the North Shore offers for families.

Channel Mag: What does Mother’s Day mean to you?

Ruth Morse: A time to reflect on the important role mothers play in nurturing the next generation. Sometimes being a mother can feel a little exhausting and so Mother’s Day is a nice time to pause, and to thank my own mum for her endless support and to remember my wonderful mother-in-law.

What do you love most about being a mum?

I just love watching my children go through all the stages in their life from being babies, toddlers, teenagers and now young adults. I’m so proud of them.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your children.

I have such fond memories of lying down with my children and reading a book before bed. My best memories are of simple things like time spent at the beach, having a picnic or family walks.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

It’s such a cliché but your children grow up so fast. One minute they’re babies and the next they’re leaving home. No words of wisdom, just to trust in your motherly instinct; you know what’s best for your children.

What’s your ideal Mother’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

I love the homemade cards my children used to make. Charlie often hastily ripped a piece of paper from his school exercise book, scribbled a funny and endearing message and drew a picture. Holly’s were always well crafted with a loving message. Those cards are treasures; I’ve kept them all.

How do you embrace the day in your role/ workplace?

Well Foundation is closely linked to all the staff at North Shore Hospital, so as a team we are conscious that on Mother’s Day many healthcare workers will be caring for patients and perhaps missing their own family on this special day. We thank them for their care, dedication and sacrifice, it’s so appreciated.

wellfoundation.org.nz

Treena Nixon

Family first for Treena

Treena Nixon is a perfumer and owner of Miller Road Fragrances in Devonport. She’s also a mother of three girls; Claudia (27), Georgia (29) and Courtney (32) and nana to two beautiful grandsons. Treena says she loves being a mum first, but she has always

needed something else to keep her brain busy. She founded the Milford Plunket Toy Library back in 1992 when Courtney was a baby with a group of amazing local mums who she met through Plunket, and those mums remain some of her closest friends today. Being a mum was always and still is her priority. It wasn’t until 2013 when they had all grown up that she began her journey as a perfumer and started Miller Road Fragrances (Miller is her maiden name).

Channel Mag: What does Mother’s Day mean to you?

Treena Nixon: Mother’s Day to me is a family day, I’m so lucky to still have my mum and mother-in-law around so Mother’s Day becomes a day where we all come together for brunch, high tea, or dinner. Now that my eldest daughter is also a mum we have lots of generations to celebrate. Mother’s Day is also our busiest time of year in my business so I’m grateful that my daughters organise our Mother’s Day get-togethers.

What do you love most about being a mum?

I love the close family unit that my husband and I have created. Our three daughters have grown up to be best friends with each other and with us. They are just the best.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your children.

Our daughters are big Swifties so we were really lucky to secure tickets to Taylor Swift's Eras tour in Sydney last month. Claudia lives in Bondi, so Lance and I and the three girls spent the weekend together and it was like a throwback to their childhood, being just the five of us, as usually there are husbands, fiancés and grandchildren who we adore but it’s quite rare for there to be just the five of us.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

The best advice I was given was by my interior design teacher, Nanette Cameron. She said make sure you sit at the dining room table and eat together while your

Ruth Morse with daughter Holly and son Charlie

children are growing up. We followed her advice, we always sat around the dining table with the tv off and talked. We wished we had a dinner cam recording some of those dinner chats – they were just the best. The girls definitely fought when they were younger like most siblings and I always said when they were fighting, your friends will come and go but you will always have each other and they are so close now, which I love.

What’s your ideal Mother’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

I have always loved receiving candles and fragrances which is why I started Miller Road Fragrances. I started making candles in my kitchen for gifts after seeing a Mother’s Day promotion to win a gift basket that had a candle in it. I remember thinking surely I can learn to make a candle. We offer the best scent experience at Miller Road Fragrances where you can create a scent memory which is a great way to celebrate the day. I get to spend the day with my daughters, my mother,

mother-in-law, and now my grandsons too! This year we will be enjoying the amazing high tea at the Cordis.

How do you embrace the day in your role/ workplace?

At Miller Road Fragrances, we are all about creating moments and scent memories that last a lifetime. Our bespoke fragrance making workshops are the perfect Mother’s Day activity.

millerroad.co.nz

Mary

Buckley

Mary instills a love of travel in her family

Mary Buckley has been the managing director of Shore Travel (previously Helloworld Travel Milford) since 2015 and in the travel industry for over 20 years.

She’s also a mum of two daughters, Grace (19 and studying at Otago University) and Chloe (17 and in her last year at Rangitoto College). Travel is a passion for the whole family, Mary’s husband Jason works for Flight Centre in their head office.

Channel Mag: What does Mother’s Day mean to you?

Mary Buckley: The path to becoming a mum wasn’t easy for me so I am very grateful to be a mum to my girls.

What do you love most about being a mum? I’m so very proud of my daughters and try to set the best example that, with a bit of hard work and determination, they can achieve whatever they set their mind to.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your children.

Jason and I have passed on our love of travel to our children from a young age, so they are very well travelled. We have shared a number

Mary Buckley with husband Jason and daughters Chloe and Grace

Treena Nixon with her husband Lance and three daughters, Claudia, Georgia and Courtney

of adventures together, including soaking up the culture of Japan, canal boating through France, roundtripping and hiking through some beautiful American national parks and coastlines.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

I’ve learnt, with having daughters, to support them to be confident in who they are, to nurture friendships and try to always focus on the positive, even when challenges are thrown their way. Our daughters were teenagers when Covid hit and our business (and livelihood) was drastically impacted by the closing of international borders. As a family, we learnt to focus on the things we could control as we navigated our way through the Covid years.

What’s your ideal Mother’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

Breakfast in bed is a treat for me because I’m usually the first up in my household.

How do you embrace the day in your role/ workplace?

I enjoy going to work every day and am thankful to work with a wonderful team. You can’t help but have fun at work when your job is to create tailormade trips for our customers to explore the world.

shoretravel.co.nz

Susan Nicholls

Susan’s appreciation for Mother’s Day

Susan Nicholls is a mum of two and married since 1992. She owns SkinSense in Devonport. She studied beauty therapy, graduating in 1990 then working in a busy

salon in St Heliers before purchasing SkinSense. Susan says her passion is anti-ageing. She has two daughters. Laura lives in Auckland with her husband and has a marketing degree. Charli is in her final year studying fashion design in Wellington. She has recently returned to New Zealand after studying for six months in the UK on exchange.

Channel Mag: What does Mother’s Day mean to you?

Susan Nicholls: Mother’s Day to me is family time together and the celebration of the maternal bonds between a mother and her children. It’s a time to reflect on the memories we have created as a family and appreciation of the love between mothers and their children.

What do you love most about being a mum?

I had always desired to be a mother, and love being a mum to my girls. When they were little we would take them everywhere with us; I enjoyed seeing them learn and experience new things. My favourite memories were seeing the smiles and excitement, their little facial expressions, the cuddles would always come next which was a bonus. We would have a holiday each year and cherish our time together. Now it’s very rewarding to see my daughters grow into the beautiful young talented and confident women they are today and super excited to see what their future holds.

Describe a treasured memory or experience that you’ve had together with your children.

One of the most treasured memories was when we went to Disneyland in LA. Charli was just tall enough to go on all the rides –just as well as she wasn’t afraid of the roller coasters! We took a town car for the day

and explored LA, all the tourist attractions. The time we had together was very special to me and we still talk about that trip and the memories we created.

Any words of wisdom on parenthood for others?

As they say, there is no manual that comes with having a child. Always trust your instincts, you will never go wrong this way. Set a good example, communicate well and cherish your relationship.

What’s your ideal Mother’s Day gift and how do you celebrate the day?

My ideal Mother’s Day gift is just to be together, relax, eat, drink, laugh and talk. We always get together every year and just enjoy each other’s company.

How do you embrace the day in your role/ workplace?

The lead-up to Mother’s Day is a very busy time at SkinSense. Leading up to the day, our gift vouchers are ever-popular, either online or over the counter. Everything is prepared in advance so we are organised and ready.

skinsense.co.nz

Susan Nicholls with daughters Charli and Laura

NEWX5

#Gramworthy

Our round up of posts from local businesses on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Nicole Harvey from @iamperfectlypolished

Nicole Harvey runs Perfectly Polished Nail Studio in Mairangi Bay. Her Instagram account is packed full of beautiful nail art inspiration and we think a voucher from Perfectly Polished would make a very nice Mother’s Day gift. Nicole talks to Channel Mag this month about the inspiration she and the team get from social media and the passion that the team has for making their clients nails look amazing. Nicole says Perfectly Polished is so much more than a job; it’s a family and they love what they do and their clients.

Channel Mag: Tell us about your business and how it came about…

Nicole Harvey: Perfectly Polished Nail Studio is a premier destination for nail enthusiasts seeking expert care and innovative designs. With a commitment to quality and creativity, our studio offers a personalised experience to every client, ensuring they leave feeling pampered and polished. Our staff have been with us for years and we love working together; it’s a work family not just a job for us. We LOVE what we do and we love our clients!

Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you? Who do you recommend following and why?

Instagram serves as a vibrant source of inspiration for Perfectly Polished, showcasing the latest nail trends, techniques, and designs from around the world. We recommend following @nailitmag, @nailsmagazine, and @nailpromagazine for their diverse array of nail art, tutorials, and industry insights. These accounts provide valuable inspiration for both nail professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Which other local businesses do social media well?

In our local community, several businesses excel in leveraging social media to showcase their talents and show customers what they offer. Laura Eve, who offers lashes, makeup artistry and brows, does social media exceptionally well and her page is so aesthetic! She also works out of Perfectly Polished now!

What’s next for your business?

The future holds exciting opportunities for Perfectly Polished Nail Studio, with plans to expand our offerings and engage our audience further on Instagram. Our Instagram feed will continue to be a hub of creativity and inspiration for nail lovers everywhere.

@iamperfectlypolished • perfectlypolished.co.nz

Autumn is here and Mikko has so many cool looking options, the perfect gift for mum this Mother’s Day too.

@mikkoshoes

There’s a beautiful gift for mums of all ages and interests here. We love the look of these and the ceramics in store.

@cosifantutte_devonport

This looks like the place to go for jewelleryloving mums this Mother’s Day. @bellorofinejewellery

Indulgent, luxurious style from Mikko

There’s something that feels extra stylish about being wrapped up in layers, and with the cooler months descending we’re looking forward to the decadent and cosy wardrobe options that autumn and winter always bring. In honour of the seasonal shift, we spoke with Michaela Longstaff, founder of Mikko Shoes, to learn about what’s in store for AW24.

Channel Mag: Michaela, can you tell us how you would describe this season at Mikko in five words?

Michaela Longstaff: We have an incredible collection at Mikko this AW24 that we’re thrilled to share. To describe it, I’d say it’s deeply sophisticated, luxurious, warming, wearable and refined.

What’s the colour palette we should be embracing?

We’ve been particularly drawn to the indulgent warm palette that has emerged after a year of cooler, icier tones. Cocoa brown features in beautiful textures, fresh cream for brightness, and an ultra-gorgeous collection of rich reds, from cherry and plum to Bordeaux. Very vintage inspired. We love the way this particular family of reds pairs with neutrals. We’re also loving the innate elegance of navy and have ensured we offer a breadth of styles in this timeless tone.

And what are this season’s must-wear silhouettes?

As always, we look to bring in a wide variety of options to cater to the breadth of lifestyles our customers live. A non-negotiable for us is to ensure we are balancing the latest seasonal trends with practicality, comfort and quality. In silhouettes, we’ve embraced

the fashion world’s deserving love for the loafer. At once luxurious and versatile, there’s everything from minimalist, modern options to highly embellished, head-turning styles. It’s part of our ‘Curated Poetry’ collection which is romantic, reflective and contemporary.

'Urban Nomad' pairs moody tones with heavy-duty accents; think the classic lug sole boots with lace-up fronts and zipper details, though this time, a little softer than seasons past. Finally, we have what we are calling the ‘Refined Futuristic’ trend; glamorous and textural, it features bold metallic finishes, high-shine prints and unexpected textile hybrids. Super luxe.

Are there any new brands we should look out for?

Actually, a returning brand, back by popular demand! Handmade in Spain, Toni Pons is back on the shelves at Mikko this season after a short hiatus, and we couldn’t be more delighted with their collection – they make the most beautiful quality footwear. We particularly love their polished take on the humble rain boot this season. A true must for the field side-line, or for running errands in the rain!

Get your dose of inspiration for cool weather dressing and visit the friendly, expert team at Mikko Shoes this season. You’ll find them at 121 Kitchener Road, Milford, or see their new season catalogue online at mikkoshoes.nz

Mikko Shoes

121 Kitchener Road, Milford 09 972 2354 mikkoshoes.nz

Circus by Arche Pearson by Pikolinos

Shield by Hispanitas

Lumiere by Luca Grossi

Yovela by Clarus

Ear Health, Devonport

82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck

SkinSense Beauty Therapy & Day Spa Retreat

53b Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 7077

skinsense.co.nz

Use CM10 to claim your 10% discount

THETA CHAMBER: treatment for concussion, PTSD, dementia, insomnia, depression and more…

“It’s like therapy without the talking” - client, Sept 2022

SOQI Bed, Deesse Pro LED mask, Bioptron lights, RF inner cleanse.

Shop 5, The Arcade

15 Victoria Road, Devonport 027 7555 109

devonportwellness.co.nz

info@devonportwellness.co.nz

Seasonal tapas menu

Wines by the glass Garden bar

Retail wine shop

Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar

53-55 Victoria Road, Devonport

Open 7 days |

Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5pm Sat & Sun: Closed www.earhealth.co.nz | 09 242 0866 Camera.

| 09 445 0194

AUTUMN ROSÉSEASONAL SPECIAL

A fresh collection of warm autumnal-toned flowers with the optional pairing of Peregrine Rosé

Beautiful Flowers, Plants and Giftwares FREE

63 Victoria Rd, Devonport 09 445 8350

devonportflowers.co.nz

Book a drain inspection before you buy a house You’ve booked a building report, but have you considered a drainage inspection?

From only $240+gst we complete a CCTV inspection to check for blockages and breaks, and that everything is flowing as it should. Drainage repairs can be expensive and annoying due to unforeseen issues with poor underground pipe works, hidden leaks, broken fixtures or pipes, and poor maintenance.

Due diligence involves carrying out inspections before you purchase your future house. Consider drainage inspection tests and inspections a part of your investment that could save you substantial time and money.

SkinSense - at the forefront of professional skin and body treatments

Special offer for Channel Mag readers - use code CM10 to receive 10% off any treatment

With more than three decades of experience in the beauty industry, SkinSense is at the forefront of professional skin and body treatments.

With highly qualified and trained therapists to cater for all your beauty needs, the quality of the beauty salon services offered is nothing short of exceptional. SkinSense provides a vast range of services from facial treatments, waxing, eyelash tinting, eyebrow shaping and tinting, eyelash lifts, manicures and pedicures, as well as Vichy hydrotherapy, massage therapies and sunless spray tanning. SkinSense specialises in advanced anti-ageing facials, including the ever-popular Rezenerate facial, micro lifting, de-pigmentation treatments and collagen induction therapy.

SkinSense maintains only the most premium services that the beauty salon industry has to offer. Its therapists also provide a range of maintenance services such as electrolysis, skin tag, milia and red vein treatment, IPL, leg waxing, eyebrow waxing, bikini and Brazilian waxing, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, lash lifts and spray tanning.

Susan and her team take pride in their consultation process, and practise a simple approach: they listen carefully to their clients' needs and requests. Whether you know exactly what you want or have no idea at all, they work with you to ensure the results you wish to achieve are met, leaving you calm and rejuvenated.

Whether you're simply ducking out for a quick eyebrow wax or having a complete day spa experience of pure luxury, SkinSense will cater to your every need and make you feel special every time.

So come into this exceptional beauty salon, call to make an appointment or book online, and be sure to ask about their monthly beauty salon specials.

SkinSense is also pleased to offer online gift vouchers along with professional skincare and delivers New Zealand-wide.

Special offer for Channel Mag readers: use code CM10 to receive 10% off any treatment.

SkinSense Beauty Therapy & Day Spa Retreat, 53b Victoria Road, Devonport 09 445 7077, skinsense.co.nz

Open Tuesday – Saturday 9am-5pm (late nights Tue & Thurs 'til 8pm)

MOST COMMON SKIN QUESTIONS WITH MEL FROM FACETIME

Advanced Skin Therapist and expert Melissa Gladding from FaceTime Skin Clinic answers the most commonly asked skin questions.

What causes acne?

There are so many underlying factors as to why we see acne present on the skin. Big players are not often what you think – although good skin hygiene is important, the main cause behind acne that we see tends to be internally related with drivers such as hormone imbalances, dietary indulgences and the skins natural microbiome being off kilter. As acne can be so individual, we recommend having a skin consultation to look into effectively treating what we see on the surface as well as treating the source of the issue internally.

What’s the best way to handle sensitive skin?

Often people are convinced their skin is sensitive and more often than not it is actually just “sensitised”. This can be changed! By re-establishing the skins microbiome and barrier function as well as turning down the skins inflammatory response and improving immunity. Suddenly the sensitised skin becomes calm, strong and resilient. This is usually best sorted with some key home prescriptives such as DMK Enbioment, Beta Gel, Seba-e oil and clinic treatments such as Healite II Light therapy and DMK Enzyme facials.

How do I fix an uneven skin tone?

Depending on what has caused the discolouration we would look at different plans of attack. All of which begins with prepping the skin with tissue brighteners and tyrosinase inhibitors. These work away on existing pigment and put a blocker in the process of your skin forming new pigment. This is normally done through regular application of home prescriptives such as DMK Melanotech Drops, DMK Superbright, DMK EFA Ultra and COOLA Silk Drops SPF30+. Clinic treatments such as M22 IPL skin rejuvenation, DMK Enzyme treatments and peel programs will be recommended based on what type of pigment we see and what has caused it.

How do I know if a product is right for me?

Get advice from a skin therapist from a reputable clinic who has spent time asking you questions and establishing a regime that is right for you. Building a relationship with a clinic and a therapist who gets to know your skin and how to push it is vital for long term results and progress.

What are the most important parts of a skin routine?

Removal: a good twice daily cleanser to prep the skin for your actives to follow. Removal of dead cell build up like a home peel weekly as well.

Rebuilding: In clinic treatments monthly that are specific to your skin needs. If you have a skin condition you want to hit hard, we recommend kicking things off with a tailored skin programme (usually 6 treatments spaced 2 weeks apart) as a skin revision course then maintaining with 4-6 weekly treatments.

Maintaining: Treatment serums and active ingredients are what packs a punch when it comes to results. Having a targeted ingredients with good delivery systems to get action where we need it.

Protecting: Sun protection – a good SPF30+ applied 365 days! Ideally one that combines environmental protection and digital protection (I’ll get to this a little later)

How can I prevent aging skin?

Protection is the best prevention. The most aging element on our skin has always been then sun and our environment, so it’s been drilled into us to wear sunscreen and antioxidants daily. We tend to spend more time exposed to devices, screens and blue light than what we do in the sun. This is vast becoming a huge cause of premature aging which is why digital protection has become equally as important as UV protection. Secondly, having regular in clinic treatments as well as gaining the right advice for your individual skin needs is vital in maintaining a healthy skin that’s strong against other aging factors.

Suna Pilates is re-energised under new ownership

Located at 1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna

Suna Pilates fitness and wellbeing studio has been a fixture on the North Shore since its inception in 2000. After 23 years, Susie Cleland, Suna Pilates founder and a pioneer in the New Zealand Pilates industry, passed the baton to a dynamic American duo with fresh energy: Jim and Norie Bregman. They made the permanent move to New Zealand in 2022, and are positively brimming with enthusiasm for their new venture.

Jim and Norie share a passion for fitness and healthy living. Norie is a lifelong student of ballet, and Jim is a keen sailor and surfer. Over the years, the couple has run a variety of small businesses, including a ballet studio and a squash club. Through Suna Pilates, they are combining their business experience with their love of fitness and wellbeing.

Since taking ownership in late August last year, the Bregmans have focused on upgrading the studio’s equipment and appearance. “We love the Suna method and class structure and aren’t changing any of that, but we wanted to improve the aesthetics and functionality of the studio to enhance the experience for members,” Norie explained. “It’s all about making sure our members are happy and getting the best workouts at the times they want them.”

Suna Pilates is open every day, excluding holidays, with over 100 classes and private sessions each week. The facility has two large, bright and airy workout studios. One studio is for Reformer Pilates and the other is for Pilates Fit, a unique-to-Suna variety of mat Pilates that incorporates additional Pilates equipment to provide a complete workout that is fat-burning, body-shaping and stress-reducing. The facility also has three smaller rooms for individual or small-group personal training. These sessions attract people recovering from injuries, those wanting to achieve their fitness goals more quickly, and those who might feel self-conscious about working out in a group.

The instructors at Suna are extensively trained and extremely knowledgeable about Pilates, and are constantly honing their skills with professional education throughout the year. In fact, people fly in from all

over the world to train as Pilates instructors at Suna. All classes are fully supervised and directed by a Suna trainer, and the Suna team truly understands how to assist each client to work at their optimum level and to safely rehabilitate injuries. As Jim put it, “We are so proud of our trainers both as amazing human beings and as exceptional teachers of strength, wellness and health. They really care about our members and know how to motivate them to achieve their goals!”

The Suna method of Pilates emphasises proper breathing and posture throughout each workout because, as Norie remarked, “When your breathing and posture are correct, you get so much more out of each exercise.” The Suna method also includes dynamic interval training to improve both heart health and overall health. At Suna, you will never do the same class twice because the trainers are constantly adding variations to the exercises and the workout focus changes every four weeks.

You can begin your journey to a healthier, fitter you by purchasing a Suna Intro Pack, which gives you four classes for only $30.

Suna Pilates, 1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 489 1987 info@sunapilates.co.nz sunapilates.co.nz

Libby Jeyes, Sonje Tokley, Anna Erwood, Norie Bregman, Spike Grogan, Georgina McIvor, Jim Bregman

Brooke Baker, Charlie McKenzie-Linnell

Introducing dermal needling

With advanced Meso-Glide (MG) serum and ÜBER Pro Peel at Takapuna OFF & ON

OFF & ON is excited to introduce the advanced Meso-Glide (MG) serums or the ÜBER Pro Peel to your dermal needling treatment.

Dermal needling is a procedure which creates micro-injuries which stimulate the body's natural wound-healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production. Dermal needling is considered the most popular skin appearance treatment due to impressive results with little to no downtime.

When the Meso-Glide (MG) serum is combined, clients have an enhanced dermal needling treatment. Specialised formulas with a blend of active ingredients target different concerns including hydration, fine lines and wrinkles, acne, rocasea, spots and pigmentation.

With the ÜBER Pro Peel, clients receive a professional-grade chemical peel that exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and stimulating cell renewal. This powerful treatment helps to improve skin tone and texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a more radiant complexion.

Visit Takapuna OFF & ON at 99 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna or book online at offandon.co.nz.

To celebrate the launch of these exciting new treatments, OFF & ON is offering a special promotion. Receive $100 off a fullface single session of dermal needling. This offer is available until 30 April 2024, so don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the benefits of dermal needling with advanced MG serums or ÜBER Pro Peel. Terms & conditions apply.

Embark on a journey of discovery at our spectacular Africa event! Whether you’re an Africa enthusiast or simply curious about this rich and diverse continent, this event promises an unforgettable evening.

Date: Wednesday 22 nd May 2024 from 6.00pm for a 6.15pm start.

Venue: Huapai Golf Club, Coatesville Riverhead Highway.

RSVP today at nadee.perera@travel.helloworld.co.nz for Westgate, or sandy.theron@travel.helloworld.co.nz for Takapuna. Or call 09 419 1799 for Westgate or 09 257 0883 for Takapuna.

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• 11 nights’

• Private transfers.

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By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist

Pregnancy fitness

Staying active and mobile during pregnancy has many positive aspects for both mother and baby. Research shows that women who exercise during pregnancy are more likely to have healthier weight gain, shorter labour and reduced risk of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. There is also increasing evidence that exercise in pregnancy provides the child with long term health advantages in terms of body composition.

The benefits of being fit in pregnancy are so well recognised that increasing numbers of clients are joining the gym prior to becoming pregnant. They want to optimise health in preparation for their journey. Having a base of fitness allows you the inevitable slowing or stopping of exercise in the first trimester. There’s no reason not to exercise gently in the first 12 weeks, but morning sickness and exhaustion often prevent it. Going into pregnancy with a high level of fitness and strength gives you a good base to build from when you return to exercise in the second trimester.

The gym is a great environment for a pregnant person. You’re close to all the things you need – cold water, bathroom, fans, seats, medical attention and lots of chit chat! General strength is very important in pregnancy. It holds you in good stead for the endurance event of labour.

Pregnancy weight gain changes your centre of gravity which can compromise balance. Exercises done on an unstable surface in a controlled environment, for example sitting on a swiss ball, encourage you to keep a sense of where you are in space and use your stabiliser muscles to stay balanced. These are important skills if you lose your footing out in the street. Weight gain can also affect posture so strengthening of the upper back is very important. You’ll need strong postural muscles for the many hours you’ll spend holding your baby.

There are several things to be cautious about in your exercise. The most important thing to avoid is overheating because baby can’t self-cool in the womb. Keep the pace sensible, stay hydrated and dress for success with cool, comfortable clothing.

Changes in blood pressure can be a challenge during pregnancy. It’s important to warm up and cool down thoroughly and change positions gradually. Standing still and lying down for prolonged periods are not recommended, especially beyond 20 weeks.

Another area to be aware of as pregnancy progresses is increasing levels of the hormone relaxin. It softens muscle fibres and ligaments in preparation for birth. This makes it easy to overstretch and tear muscles. Therefore, it’s important to avoid high impact activities, quick direction changes and over-enthusiastic stretching.

Abdominal exercises are another area to watch. Avoid any exercise that places significant load on the abdominals or pelvic floor including abdominal curls and hovers.

Appropriate exercise intensity will depend on the level of fitness prior to the pregnancy and of course health and mood on the day which can be extremely variable! It’s ok to start an exercise programme in pregnancy even if you were inactive prior to pregnancy but the intensity must begin at a low level and progress very gradually. Intensity, pace and volume of all exercise should be set according to your ability to keep good form, core stability and even breathing.

The theme of all guidelines is the same: pregnancy is not a time to push through pain. It’s a time of gentle exercise, ideally a little and often, always mindful of the primary purpose which is to build a strong incubator. Always keep the most important goal in mind – a healthy baby and a healthy mummy through pregnancy, birth and beyond.

Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna 0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz

clairebellingham.co.nz, claire@clairebellingham.co.nz

By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.

Hearing and memory

Hearing loss and memory have been in the media recently, with the Aged Care Commissioner’s recent report advocating for an increase in funding for hearing aids to make this technology more accessible. Hearing loss means you miss out on hearing sounds and voices, but it is also linked to a range of health issues, including dementia.

One of the top researchers in this area, Dr. Francis Lin, director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health at the Bloomberg School at Johns Hopkins, talks about brain strain, brain shrinkage and isolation, as some of the impacts of hearing loss.

This group is also leading a study exploring whether hearing aids reverse this trend. Early data suggests hearing aids help, particularly for people with other health problems. Final data will be published within the next few months.

If you, or someone you love, seems to be having hearing problems, book in for a hearing check. If hearing loss is confirmed, look into getting some hearing aid technology. The earlier you start the better, in terms of brain benefits, getting used to them, and managing them. There are lots of discreet, affordable and comfortable models available.

Call today for an appointment with the team at Teresa Burns Hearing on 09 475 9849.

Call 09 475 9849

admin@teresaburnshearing.co.nz

Unit B, Level 1, 25 Apollo Drive, Rosedale teresaburnshearing.co.nz

By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH

Battling bad breath: Causes, treatment and prevention

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common oral health issue that can lead to embarrassment and social discomfort. While poor oral hygiene is a major contributor, other factors such as dry mouth, certain foods, and underlying health conditions can also play a role.

Causes and treatment

• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing, interdental cleaning, and tongue cleaning can lead to bacterial buildup, resulting in bad breath. Regular oral hygiene practices and professional cleanings can help combat this.

• Dry mouth: Saliva helps clean the mouth and neutralise acids. Dry mouth, often caused by medication or medical conditions, can contribute to bad breath. Staying hydrated and using salivastimulating products can help.

• Underlying health issues: Gum disease, tooth decay, and poorly fitting dental appliances can harbour bacteria and lead to halitosis. Treatment by a dental professional may be necessary to address these issues.

Prevention

• Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush with fluoride toothpaste, interdental clean daily, and visit the dental hygienist regularly.

• Avoid tobacco and alcohol: These substances can contribute to dry mouth and bad breath. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can help.

• Healthy diet: Foods like onions and garlic can contribute to bad breath. Rinsing the mouth after eating and maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent this.

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep the mouth moist and prevent bad breath.

Halitosis is a common issue that can be managed with proper oral hygiene and lifestyle habits. By understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures, you can enjoy fresher breath and better oral health.

Mint Dental Hygiene is a Southern Cross easy claim provider.

“Thanks to you and your team for hosting our wedding in Januar y. We had a great time , and the Takapuna Boat Club was an amazing venue . ” Rochelle and Brian.

By Kirsten Taylor, Naturopathic Sleep Specialist, Managing Director, Founder

Why we don't sleep well

It seems like every second person isn’t sleeping these days. Why don’t we sleep well anymore?

The latest international surveys calculate the number of people struggling to get a good night's sleep is almost 50% of the world's population. With lack of sleep negatively impacting every cell of our body and contributing to every disease from cancer to diabetes, obesity, anxiety and depression, such high rates of poor sleep should have health departments frantically instigating new positive sleep policies. The trouble is sleep is a series of complex processes that rely on multiple pathways being in balance all at once. With 80 medically recognised sleep disorders, it's fair to say every person has trouble sleeping for a different matrix of reasons. The SleepDrops team has been researching sleep for over 20 years and has discovered the following ten reasons are the most common sleep disruptors:

Stress. Chronic stress can cause sleep disruption for up to 18 months, and episodic stress can cause problems for six months or longer if left untreated.

Not prioritising sleep. FOMO is making people stay awake long after they should be in bed taking advantage of the rejuvenating powers of sleep, which are best before midnight

Circadian rhythm disruption. Night shift, travel, and pulling all-nighters at work or university can reprogramme our body clocks adversely, which we then have to reset.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Our ancestors rotated their crops, remineralised the soil, and got all the nutrients they needed. Modern agriculture doesn’t provide this. A healthy functioning nervous system needs 400mg of magnesium. These days we only get 200mg even if on a raw food, green leafy diet.

Hormones play a huge role in sleep. Estrogen is a master hormone and assists the body to drop in temperature during slowwave sleep, which is when we repair. Conversely, too much estrogen can cause insomnia.

Medications. Many medicines people take every day for pain, heart or blood pressure conditions and even insomnia, list insomnia as a side effect. Be sure to check your medication and if possible switch to one that doesn’t cause insomnia. One thing is for sure –lack of sleep will make your condition worse.

Medical conditions. Many health issues have poor sleep associated with them. Pain is the most common. Pain and sleep have a significant bi-directional relationship with each making the other worse. Bad sleep causes the body to produce 'bad' pain and good sleep creates 'good' pain. Treating pain with natural pain relief and reinforcing sleep at the same time will support a better outcome.

Kids, pets and loved ones. We love them, but they can destroy our sleep. When it comes to kids, we need to be able to wake up and tend to their needs but get back to sleep fast so we are ready to face the day. Pets can be kept in another room and partners snoring is easy to fix too. Either support their sleep so they don’t snore or

make sure you get healthy sleep so you can’t hear them!

Age. Medicine recognises sleep gets harder as we age, but not the why. Again it's complicated, but it can be overcome. Our team has been helping people in their 70s, 80s and 90s sleep better. Addressing melatonin pathways and supporting the absorption of co-factors which aid in its utilisation such as magnesium, zinc, B vitamins and vitamin C is essential.

Alcohol. I have to reluctantly address the elephant in the room. Alcohol is a killer of a good night's sleep. Whilst it can help us fall asleep faster, it completely ruins the rest of the night, changing sleep brain waves and making it very difficult for our bodies to achieve deep, slow-wave sleep which is where we repair. Solution? Moderate levels of lunchtime socialising so we have time to process it before sleep.

SleepDrops is New Zealand's leading sleep expert with a comprehensive portfolio of very specialised sleep support supplements to address all ages, life stages and sleeping challenges. Every product we develop is devoted to fulfilling a deep need for our customers. We meticulously research ingredients and their efficacy to offer something quite spectacular. Whether it be superior absorption for ultra-fast response, specialised formulations, or flexibility of dosing, our products can be combined to create a unique sleep support programme that matches your individual needs for impactful, life-changing sleep.

Channel Magazine publisher

Aidan Bennett has enjoyed a close association with Brosnan founder Phil Brosnan since his arrival on the North Shore two decades ago. They are both past presidents and trustees of the North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust. Aidan has watched Phil launch, lead and grow the hugely successful Brosnan business to the point where he has recently stepped away from the dayto-day running of the business and is ‘retiring’ to a lifestyle property near Queenstown. During March, he sat down and talked to Phil about his two decades on the Shore.

A chat with… Phil Brosnan

Life on the Shore, building and business, making the move south

Phil Brosnan’s early ambition was to be a chef in the navy. It was work as a teenager helping his brother-in-law on building projects that led him to taking a building apprenticeship with Dunedinbased construction company Naylor Love in 1985. It was the start of a career in the construction industry that has culminated in the development of the impressive North Shore headquartered business that carries his surname, and now employs 350 people across the country. Not bad for someone who admits to having been useless at school.

Young Phil Brosnan clearly demonstrated strong leadership qualities early on, came off the tools and was eventually promoted to become Naylor Love’s Dunedin manager. In 2004, an opportunity with the business brought him to Auckland and the North Shore.

“Naylor Love expanded into the Auckland market by acquiring the remnants of the business that was Akita Construction on the North Shore in 2003, and I was asked to come north to run it,” says Phil. “When I arrived, the

Naylor Love Auckland base was in Parity Place (Glenfield) but I had aspirations for better premises. So, I started talking to local commercial real estate agents and was fortunate to meet Daryl Devereux. He gave me a great piece of advice about getting to know people on the Shore and that was to join the North Harbour Club. I have thanked him for that ever since. The North Harbour Club was a great way to build friendships and a local network. At club events I met many people, one of those being Takapuna accountant Evan Henning who encouraged me to join Takapuna North Rotary, another organisation that gave me a great deal.”

Phil Brosnan became a leader in both organisations. He was president of Takapuna North Rotary for a term and a long-serving trustee and president of the North Harbour Club from 2018 through until 2022.

Phil says the North Shore has given him plenty – not only in business, but also personally. It was where he met Michelle, who was born and bred on the Shore, now his wife of 16 years. They met in 2006 and married in 2008. Together, they have a blended family of five adult offspring.

In 2010, with Michelle’s support, Phil Brosnan made the move to launch Brosnan Construction. He says he set up Brosnan with the purpose of making a positive

difference and an aim to build a sustainable business that would last for generations. His Christchurch-based brother Craig became a partner in the business along the way when Brosnan launched in the South Island.

“When I started it was during the GFC [global financial crisis]. While that hit in 2007/08, there is always a lag before the full effects are felt in construction. By 2010 it had well and truly hit.

“The remediation building sector in New Zealand was tightly held. However, I had some good contacts in that area of the industry so that was our obvious entry into the market. Most others were not keen on remedial work because it’s not easy.

“From our very first project, which was the Mon Desir apartments in Takapuna, our mission has been to understand and deliver on each client’s unique needs. I believe this has established Brosnan’s reputation as the only true specialist in remediation, upgrades, and refurbishments on multi-unit residential and non-residential buildings. We’ve all heard the saying, ‘work smarter, not harder’, and for us, that means competing on our unique offering.

“It wasn’t all smooth sailing in those early days though. We were so focused on getting the Mon Desir project right that we weren’t paying enough attention to what came next.

Phil Brosnan as President of the North Harbour Club

Phil Brosnan

So there were sleepless nights when that project was nearing completion. We were starting to run out of money! I can remember working 18-hour days pricing for new work. We priced five projects in a very short time hoping to get one or two. We got them all, so we were well on our way.”

“While there has been a lot of hard work and long hours, we have also made sure we are thinking years into the future, ensuring that we have been strategic, to drive Brosnan’s success.

“For me, that meant identifying and mentoring my successor early. In 2018, we appointed Geoff Nash, who had worked with us since 2012, as general manager. In 2020, we established an independent board of directors and promoted Geoff to CEO. Since then, we’ve experienced remarkable growth, and I rest easy knowing the company is in safe hands.”

Today, from its North Shore base, Brosnan operates nationwide with offices in Queenstown, Christchurch and Wellington (and of course in Auckland on the North Shore) – with an office opening soon in

Tauranga. They’re delivering projects all over New Zealand – from Whangarei to Te Anau. Brosnan employs over 350 people across the country – 184 of those people are based out of the North Shore office.

A high profile local North Shore project that Brosnan recently completed was the Spencer on Byron in Takapuna. The 21-floor building had weather tightness issues with the cladding system. Brosnan became involved early on and carried out two pilot projects to help identify defects and assist the design team in developing a solution. Understandably, the body corporate wanted to minimise the impact of construction on the hotel and the building’s occupants. That meant that only 24 rooms – two floors – could be vacated at any given time.

“We were able to devise a programme and methodology around these constraints that would allow us to carry out work two floors at a time,” explains Phil. “The traditional way of remediating the building would have been to erect scaffolding from the ground up that encapsulated the building, but that would have been disruptive and visually unacceptable. Our team came up with a unique suspended scaffolding system that allowed us to carry out the work without the traditional scaffolding.”

While the North Shore remains an important part of the Brosnan business, change is in the air for Phil and Michelle. Having handed the reins over to others, they are building a new home at Dalefield, near Queenstown, in Central Otago.

“In my 20s I almost followed my brother-in-law when he moved to build in Queenstown. Being born and bred in

Dunedin from five years of age I spent most of our holidays in Central Otago and came to love the place. I have always had an ambition to end up there one day. That day is coming. We will not be departing the North Shore completely. Michelle and I will still have a place on the Shore and will spend time here. I will maintain my governance role with Brosnan so will be at head office regularly for board meetings.

“The North Shore and wider North Harbour region has provided a wonderful lifestyle over the past 20 years and the people have been wonderful. I felt welcome from the day I arrived fresh off the boat from Dunedin. Looking back, I remember meeting people who had a range of interesting roles, much wider than where I had come from. Suddenly, I was meeting and dealing with people working on international projects in a city of significance. I have loved building my network and meeting new people through business, the North Harbour Club, Rotary and many other things I have been involved in. The area will always be part of Phil Brosnan’s life.”

Phil remains active in governance with the Brosnan business and also sits on the Registered Master Builders Association (RMBA) board, is a board member and deputy chair of the Building and Construction Trade Fund, and was recently appointed as a director for Master Build Services.

A high profile local North Shore project that Brosnan recently completed was the Spencer on Byron in Takapuna

Phil and Michelle Brosnan

Phil (left) and his brother Craig with a young Brosnan team member

Brosnan CEO Geoff Nash (left) with Gary Monk and Phil Brosnan

Phil and Craig Brosnan biking near Queenstown

WHAT’S TRENDING

Typo

Zodiac Candle - $19.99

The ideal gift for that beautiful person born in April. Grab the star sign you need from Typo Glenfield. Each has their own scent and star sign meaning printed on the front and comes in a cute box to match.

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This traditional Lottie Trench Coat from Cotton On is the most on trend coat this season. Featuring a long line fit, twin hip pockets and waist tie to keep the cold out. Spacious enough to wear with your favourite jumper.

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Pink Swan Raincoat - $55.00

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Farmers SALT&PEPPER Duet Cake Stand - $59.99

Take your entertaining to the next level with this cake stand, delicately crafted from hand blown two-tone pastel glass and designed with a curved, modern shape. Both colourful and playful, it looks great on its own or combined with other pieces from the Duet range.

Autumn colours are upon us

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AUTUMN School Holidays

APRIL 13TH TO 28TH

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SOME ACTIVITIES WILL BOOKINGSREQUIRE OR HAVE COSTS INCLUDED

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WWW.GLENFIELDMALL.CO.NZ SUBSCRIBE FOR UPDATES OR FOLLOW US ON:

Vinnies volunteers

- enriching the lives of those in

The Society of St Vincent de Paul opened a new shop in Barrys Point Road, Takapuna in October 2023. This shop complements the existing shop in Ellice Road, Glenfield, in providing affordable pre-loved and repurposed goods to the community.

Dedicated to assisting individuals regardless of their beliefs, culture or gender, the society, though closely affiliated with the Catholic Church, extends its support to anyone in need. Membership is open to all, reflecting the inclusivity and diversity of its outreach.

The Vinnies shops play a pivotal role in funding and supporting the society's charitable work. Through the generous donations of goods, time and money, including proceeds from shop sales, the society sustains its impactful works in the community. In north Auckland alone, the society provided 1,800 food parcels and visited 400 households in the last financial year 20222023. Assistance spans various needs, including rent, school expenses and utility bills, in addition to vital food support.

need

Volunteers are the backbone of the Vinnies shops; they contribute

their time and skills, enabling the work of the society to flourish and to continue. Their dedication ensures sustainable recycling practices, minimising landfill waste and maximising community benefit.

To further its mission, the society welcomes people to join as members of the society.

If you're able to spare a few hours a week to contribute by volunteering, please reach out to takapuna.vinnies@gmail.com.

Together, let's continue the legacy of compassion and service embodied by the Society of St Vincent de Paul, enriching the lives of those in need within our community.

Vinnies Takapuna

25 Barrys Point Road 09 482 3017

takapuna.vinnies@gmail.com

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-4pm, Sat 10am-2pm

FASHION SHOW

MILFORD CENTRE PROUDLY PRESENTED ITS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED 2024 FASHION SHOW ON SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH

This event welcomed a notable influx of fashion enthusiasts of all ages. Featuring an impressive lineup of renowned brands including Blue Illusion, Bras N Things, Coco & Belle, Ella + Eli, Flo & Frankie, Hatch Baby & Child, Identity, Lorna Jane, Marlow, Max, Merchant 1948, Mischief Shoes, Moochi, Papinelle, Repertoire, Seasalt Cornwall, Sportscraft, Storm and Taking Shape, the runway exhibition showcased the latest trends with elegance and flair. At the event, four lucky winners also received prizes thanks to the Milford Business Association and sponsors including Mercedes Benz North Shore, Peugeot, Riverside Matakana and House of Travel Milford, which made for an overall fabulous event.

MILFORD CENTRE RETAIL EXPANSION CENTRE

Milford Centre is thrilled to announce a fashion-led retail exp ansion, encompassing over 2,500 m2 of additional retail space. Driven by an ongoing demand for top-tier retail experiences, this expansion marks an exciting chapter in our centre’s evolution. The new development will house 16 retail tenancies alongside a modernized customer toilet facility, seamlessly connecting the North and East wings of Milford Centre. Furthermore, we eagerly anticipate the opening of CityFitness Gym within the center later this year.

Your monthly update from Murray Hill, Manager of Milford Business Association.

We’ve got Europe covered

Europe is a travel destination that should be enjoyed over a number of visits to appreciate the protracted history, different cultures and varied scenery. So where do you start? The Shore Travel advisors have extensive knowledge of all things Europe and will assist you to plan an itinerary personalised to your travel preferences.

Here are some of our Europe highlights:

Scandinavia and Baltic: Explore the must-sees of this beautiful region with an ocean cruise while uncovering the rich insights on offer. Experience the storybook towns and chic design capitals of the Baltic and Scandinavia; glide through shimmering Norwegian fjords as you learn the incredible story of the Vikings; immerse yourself in the magnificent natural beauty of Iceland and Greenland; search for the aurora borealis in winter or experience the long daylight hours of the midnight sun.

Mediterranean: Experience a living legacy of Renaissance riches, ancient ruins and culinary pleasures; enjoy tapas in Barcelona; explore Istanbul’s majestic Blue Mosque, Jerusalem’s gold-plated Dome of the Rock and Granada’s enchanting Alhambra; indulge in the perfect French Riviera luncheon paired with chilled rosé and sea views. Be swept away by Italy’s charm: the echoing chime of church bells in grand piazzas, the vista of Tuscany’s rolling hills covered in vineyards. Watch the stunning sunsets in the village of Oia on

Santorini. Complete your Mediterranean exploration with a trip to Croatia to experience the old towns with cobbled streets, fabulous views and lovely beaches.

United Kingdom: Visit Northern Island where 'Game of Thrones' was filmed; attend one of Edinburgh’s festivals; hike or bike the stunning landscapes of the Lake District; take a walk around Stonehenge; visit a number of the magnificent castles or palaces open to the public.

Central Europe: Immerse yourself in European culture with a river cruise through Central Europe. Unpack only once and enjoy your allinclusive floating hotel, just bliss! Sail through the picturesque views of the Wachau Valley and the dramatic Rhine Gorge.

Eastern Europe: Prague offers a glimpse of medieval Europe with its Gothic churches and old Baroque buildings. Budapest is one of Europe’s most fascinating and beautiful capitals with grand 19th century architecture and multiple signs of communist history located on a sweep of the Danube River.

From gaining new perspectives, embracing new cultures and environments, to creating lifelong memories with the ones we love, travel is a chance to leave our comfort zones, explore the world and truly live.

Phone: 09 489 2597 or email: hello@shoretravel.co.nz

Paris, France

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Cologne, Germany

Anzac Day on the Shore

As Anzac Day approaches at the end of the month, many Shore locals prepare to take part in Anzac Day commemorations. Christine Young takes a quick look at some local military reminders and connections, and talks to representatives from local Returned and Services Associations (RSAs) about their plans for 2024 commemorations.

Anzac Day as we now know it began to take shape in New Zealand soon after news filtered through of the landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey on 25 April 2016.

Within a few years core elements of the day had been established, memorials erected in communities up and down the country, books (from serious histories to illustrated picture books for young people) have been written, and the tradition of a dawn service and a military parade has evolved over the years, attended by not just returned service men and women but increasingly by families remembering those who fought and died at Gallipoli, and those who have fought in subsequent conflicts from World War II, to Korea, Vietnam and in the Middle East and elsewhere.

Here on the Shore, the Anzac tradition is strong. Though there may not be as many RSAs as there once were, the three that remain are active and together plan complementary Anzac commemorations.

I think that schools, parents and community groups understand the importance of remembering those who have served and fought for New Zealand.

In Devonport, home to the New Zealand Navy since 1841, those who attend the annual Anzac Day parade can also take time to reflect on other conflicts in which the navy and the country have been involved, and on the strong military links in the suburb. On the commemorative sea wall a plaque celebrates the end of the Boer War in 1902. On King Edward Parade, the majestic Elizabeth House at number 5, now apartments, serves as a reminder that it was requisitioned during WWII to house the Wrens (Women's Royal NZ

Naval Service). Further along the waterfront a plaque commemorates the murder of the commanding officer of the naval base and his family, and further yet, just before the Navy Museum, is Torpedo Bay, where torpedo boats docked as the country anticipated a conflict with Tsarist Russia in the 1880s.

But back to 2024. Devonport Anzac commemorations centre around a parade marching from Fleet Street to the Devonport War Memorial (see side bar for details).

Devonport RSA President Muzz Kennett says the parade is well attended by Devonport RSA veterans and members, representatives from the local board, Royal New Zealand Navy, the public, Sea Cadets, Air Cadets, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, local schools, Devonport Volunteer Fire Brigade, and representatives from many other community groups.

Like other areas, Devonport has noticed an increase in numbers attending over the years. “I think that schools, parents and community groups understand the importance of remembering those who have served and fought for New Zealand. Many wear medals awarded to their parents, grandparents or great-grandparents. I think it gives us all a sense of nationhood and acknowledges the sacrifice of those who have served and are serving.”

While the Anzac Day focus remains on the

horrific loss of life at Gallipoli, the emphasis is slowly changing. Muzz Kennett thinks, “Anzac Day will always be embedded in the WWI and WWII history. However more recent conflicts are now acknowledged at the ceremonies. Devonport RSA places special focus on recent veterans at our Remembrance Day commemoration ceremony in November.”

Other commemorations also broaden the focus: “In addition to Anzac Day and Remembrance Day commemorations,” says Muzz, “Devonport RSA has recently introduced Purple Poppy Day commemorations into our calendar. Purple Poppy Day commemorates the animals that served [during conflict]."

Alisdair Martin, President of East Coast Bays RSA, says East Coast Bays commemorations are attended, as in Devonport, by a wide cross section of the community, and that there has been a similar increase in numbers attending. “There has of course been a notable reduction of the numbers of veterans that attend each year. However, there has been a large increase in the numbers of the public and community groups attending. It is also well supported by current serving members of the NZDF and emergency services, cadet units, local schools and community groups.

Devonport RSA President Muzz Kennett with granddaughter Poppy

Maurice (Muzz) Kennett, President of Devonport RSA

“There has been a greater number of younger people attending commemorations,” he adds, “and this has always been the case in East Coast Bays. It has actually always been well supported by younger people and all age groups for that matter. I believe it is because local schools and community groups actively encourage keeping the memory alive of the reason we have Anzac Day. The ECB RSA is also very active in the local community and supports multiple charities and local groups. In doing this it also keeps the ECB RSA in the forefront of the local community.”

Easy Coast Bays RSA commemorations start early, with a 5.30am parade and dawn service at 5.45am. This is the combined Anzac Day service which is also attended by Devonport and Birkenhead RSAs.

A citizen’s parade in Brown’s Bay follows at 8.15am (see side bar for details).

“In our services we commemorate everyone not just WW1 and subsequent wars,” says Alisdair. “Anzac Day should encompass all wars, conflicts and those who have been forever changed by their experiences. It is very important to recognise everyone for that matter, not just at an individual level but also at a family level, who may also have been forever changed by their experiences.”

The early parade marches along Beachfront Lane to the Brown’s Bay War Memorial, where the service takes place, before participants adjourn to the Bays Club for breakfast rolls provided by ECB RSA. This is primarily for veterans, former and current service men and women, RSA members, uniformed personnel, medal wearers, and people who took part in the service (Long Bay College students and guardians, who sang at the service, Ode, and Rangitoto College students and guardians, who spoke at the service). Other local cafes open early for the general public, and ECB RSA encourages

everyone to support these local business owners.

The 8.15am citizen’s parade follows the same route, with the service also taking place at the War Memorial. The Bays Club and Speakers Corner Ale House open as meeting venues after. ECB RSA has booked live music at The Bays Club: 3Decibelles from 9am to 11am and Sandy from 11am to 2pm.

Weather permitting, a pre- or post-parade walk in the Bays, as in Devonport, can also remind you that no part of the Shore has been spared close contact with military operations. The family-friendly walk along the Castor Bay to Kennedy Point walkway is rich in military history: though the entire coast from Torbay south was fortified with defenses, including pillboxes along the coastline and hills, and barbed wire ditches, the largest fortification in East Coast Bays was the Castor Bay (Kennedy Point) battery and camp, which was disguised as a state housing project, evidence of which can still be seen today.

Alisdair Martin firmly believes that “the focus on Anzac Day will not change and the memories of WW1 and Gallipoli and other campaigns will always carry on in the minds of all New Zealanders for future generations to come”.

So whether you attend one of the parades or services on the Shore, or simply take the opportunity on Anzac Day to get outside and contemplate the rich reminders we have in

the area of a more turbulent and terrifying past than the era we now live in, Anzac Day is a day for reflection on how much so many have done to protect New Zealand and our way of life.

Anzac Day details

Note: Road closures will be in place fort all Anzac Day parades and services – check with Auckland Council for details.

DEVONPORT

10.30am Muster in Fleet St

10.45am Parade march off 11am Service at the Devonport Memorial of the Untidy Soldier. Veteran and children's seating available in front of the memorial.

TAKAPUNA

8.30am Parade assembly – Sanders Ave

9am Service at 1-7 The Strand. Light refreshments after at Takapuna War Memorial Hall

NORTHCOTE

10.15am Parade assembly – Queen St near Bridgeway Theatre

10.45am Service at Northcote War memorial Hall, Rodney Road

BIRKENHEAD

9.30am Parade assembly – Mokoia Road between Huka Road and Colonial Road

10am Service at Birkenhead War Memorial Park Cenotaph

GLENFIELD

11.10am Parade assembly – Ross Avenue

11.30am Service at Glenfield War Memorial. Light refreshments after at Takapuna War Memorial Hall

EAST COAST BAYS – DAWN PARADE

5.30am Parade assembly – corner of Anzac Road and Beachfront Lane. 5.45am Dawn Service.

6.30am: Bays Club /Speakers Corner Ale House – breakfast

EAST COAST BAYS – CITIZENS PARADE

8.15am Parade Assembly – corner of Anzac Road and Beachfront Lane

8.45am Citizens Service.

10am After service venues – Bays Club/ Speakers Corner Ale House

Devonport Anzac Day Parade 2023

Bagpipers at the East Coast Bays Anzac parade 2023

In this issue we’re highlighting retirement living. To find out first-hand what retirement living is all about, Channel Mag publisher Aidan Bennett was despatched to two of the well-known local villages to discover how the menfolk cope with life in a lifestyle village. He visited Rob Arblaster and Brad Meurant at The Poynton in Takapuna, then Bill Scott and Leigh Elder at William Sanders, Devonport.

Rob and Brad at The Poynton

Rob Arblaster and Brad Meurant are well-known north of the Harbour Bridge. Rob was captain of the Tall Blacks back in the early 1970’s and was also a first-class cricketer for Auckland. Brad was one of New Zealand’s leading rugby coaches. Coaching North Harbour, the Chiefs in Super Rugby and also overseas in South Africa, Ireland, Japan and Georgia.

Rob and Brad were relatively young in the scheme of things (in their late 60s) when they decided on a move to The Poynton with their wives. Rob and his wife Robyn have been at The Poynton for nine years, while Brad and Helen Meurant for four years.

“We had sold our Milford home and trialled apartment living for a year in Takapuna before choosing The Poynton for a range of reasons,” explained Rob Arblaster. “Robyn was rehabbing from spine surgery so the one level, easy access apartment was perfect. I also liked the fact there would be no lawns to mow, no maintenance to do and no body corporate calls to worry about.”

“Helen and I had an older house in Glenfield and also considered apartment living,” added Brad. “The fact there was no body corp with the retirement village option really appealed to us as well. We were probably considered a little bit young to make that move, but four years on we have absolutely no regrets. We love it!”

Those who knock retirement villages often point to the loss of 20-30% of the capital and the fees as negatives, but that is not the case with Brad and Rob.

“We accepted the front-end loaded loss and rationalised that this, being our ‘final home’, was part of the future cost of this

lifestyle, but to be enjoyed right from the beginning. We signed up fully aware,” adds Rob. “As our final home, when we have both gone the loss isn’t going to be our problem." (He laughs.)

What we have here in many respects is an oldfashioned community. There is lots of fellowship with people shaking hands and looking one another in the eye.

Both Rob and Brad agree that the fixed fee deal they have makes things very easy, as they know what their ongoing costs will be. That is most often not the case with a body corporate situation or owning your own home. Brad says a mate of his has just had to spend about $60,000 on replacing a roof on his home. Ouch!

“What we have here in many respects is

an old-fashioned community”, explained Brad Meurant. “There is lots of fellowship with people shaking hands and looking one another in the eye. An early concern for us was about living with so many people, but that hasn’t materialised, as our spacious apartment is our own space and we all socialise in the social areas. Having interesting people around – and there are lots of people here who have done really interesting things with their lives – means it’s always interesting.”

Rob has taken to bowls and is in the Poynton gym and/or pool most mornings as well enjoying the occasional game of table tennis and darts with visiting grandchildren.

Brad also makes regular use of the gym and loves snooker which is particularly popular with the men. He’s leaving bowls to his wife Helen, a recent convert to the game. Helen also plays petanque.

Brad Meurant says retirement village living is an easy lifestyle.

“The bus is close, so we use our AT cards a lot, going over the bridge etc. We also do lots of walking to Milford and Takapuna. Socially we still do a lot outside of the village as well.”

Rob Arblaster and Brad Meurant at The Poynton Retirement Village

Rob Arblaster, Brad Meurant

The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand Retirement Villages

Whether you’re actively researching retirement villages or simply considering your options for the future, this booklet is your tool to understanding everything there is to know about retirement village living in New Zealand.

In this guide, you’ll receive:

• An overview of entry costs, exit costs, weekly fees and other financial considerations.

• An introduction to contracts and paperwork to help you better understand the application process.

• An understanding of what happens when you leave the village or transition to higher level care.

• Maps of retirement villages in your area.

If you’re considering moving into a retirement village, this booklet is for you.

To download your FREE copy, scan the QR code or visit villageguide.co.nz

Bill and Leigh at William Sanders

Locals will remember the controversy around Ryman building its William Sanders Retirement Village in Devonport. A few years on that’s mostly forgotten; it is now the wonderful home for many, covering independent living and assisted living options as well as having a rest home, dementia care and hospital facilities.

Two men who are enjoying the independent living lifestyle at William Sanders are Bill Scott and Leigh Elder.

Bill Scott first moved to Devonport in 1975. On retirement from the textile industry he first moved to Katikati. He then came back to Devonport to a home on Old Lake Road, before moving (around 500 metres away) into the three bedroom Williams Sanders apartment with wife Barbara three years ago.

Leigh Elder is relatively new to Devonport. Born and bred in Taranaki he has moved around a bit in a career that has included being a PE teacher, a financial planner, a rest home owner and a life and business coach. Leigh and wife Kate moved into their two-bedroom Williams Sanders apartment three years ago.

“We made the move into the village for all the benefits it has delivered,” explained Bill, when quizzed about the decision. “No maintenance was a big one; our home was getting harder to maintain. All our worries as we are getting older are taken care of. Living in an institution did take a bit of adjusting to, but we have.”

For Leigh and Kate Elder the two bedroom William Sanders option proved to be a good one.

“We wanted to live in Devonport so a brand new apartment at William Sanders made sense. The price was good, we would still enjoy independent living but with the opportunity to meet new like-minded friends. And that is exactly what has happened. "There is great camaraderie and support, and people are always looking after one another.”

Leigh started the quiz group at the village and also plays billiards regularly. He plays golf regularly and enjoys getting out to walk around Devonport. There is a bridge club which he also enjoys. Bill Scott supports

North Shore Rugby and still plays golf at the Waitemata Golf Club, just a stones throw away, being a member of the 20-plus Friday ‘Poes’ group. Old fellas golf. He’s a regular user of the pool at William Sanders (four-five times a week).

Both Leigh and Bill say they enjoy the bar at William Sanders that is very well run and open four days a week from 4-8pm with a happy hour on Thursdays. They say the café is also popular.

Both see William Sanders Retirement Village as their last move and are happy with their move to the village.

No maintenance was a big one; our home was getting harder to maintain. All our worries as we are getting older are taken care of.

“We are looked after very well with everything here that we need,” says Bill. “Being so comfortable and secure removes the pressure from our children as we get older.”

“The fixed fees we enjoy make things easy as well,” adds Lee. “These are fixed for life, so we know what the lifestyle is costing us now and in the future.”

As was the case with Rob and Brad at The Poynton, Bill and Leigh have no issues with losing the percentage of capital value when their apartment is eventually sold.

I know what I’ll be doing in my retirement – Bill, Lee, Rob and Brad have got it good!

Bill Scott and Leigh Elder at William Sanders Retirement Village

Bill Scott, Lee Elder

By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote

“Success

is not the work of one, but the work of many” ~ Māori proverb

Restoring law and order to make our communities safe is a key goal of the Coalition government.

We have started down this path with our 100-day action plan with steps such as giving police greater powers to stop and search gang members and introducing legislation to crack down on serious youth offending.

A Young Offender Military Academy will be established and trialed in Auckland from June this year. This programme, based on the Limited-Service Volunteer scheme, will be delivered by Oranga Tamariki alongside other government departments to ensure it is a well-rounded programme.

The programme will provide youth with discipline, structure, mentoring and guidance to help give them a way out and a hand up in life.

… we are very fortunate to have impactful community organisations focused on wellbeing, crime prevention and empowerment.

We know that efforts to reduce criminal offending will take time to bear fruits. And the solutions are not to be found solely by government either.

Community organisations help to break the cycle of offending at a local level. They provide reintegration programmes for youth and use a social investment approach to target effective support towards young people at risk.

In our community, we are very fortunate to have impactful community organisations focused on wellbeing, crime prevention and empowerment. These groups provide vital support through initiatives such as community patrol, truancy services, youth development and mentoring. Steps to Success, a programme run by the Kaipātiki Community Facilities Trust, empowers and up-skills our youth to help them find meaningful jobs.

Outside our local area, there are some positive organisations including Genesis YouthTrust which provides wrap-around support to keep at-risk youth on the right track to success. Vanguard Military School provides personal responsibility and comprehensive pastoral care, empowering young people to enter the work force with motivation and self-confidence.

We all know a community thrives when you don’t lose touch with the people in it. Our government’s approach is to back communities and impactful community organisations to make a meaningful difference on crime prevention.

Our government alone can’t make our communities safer but together with local organisations and local solutions we can.

Please feel free to contact my office if there’s anything we can help with.

See you in our community!

Dan Bidois – MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz

Phone: 09 481 1089

facebook: @danbidoismp instagram: @danbidoismp

From DTLB Chair, Toni

Frantic start to the year

van Tonder

Happy easter! This year my birthday fell on Good Friday which meant a day of rest with plenty of chocolate. Can’t ask for much more than that. It was a welcome break after what has been a frantic start to the new year.

Consultation on the Long-Term Plan has now closed and the Local Board is awaiting local results that will help inform the views we present to the Governing Body. We’re incredibly wary of the fairer funding proposal that’s built into the LTP, as under both the central and the pay less get less scenario, we’re due for big cuts to our capital budgets. This is going to mean (if the Governing Body approves it) fewer renewals of our parks, community buildings and houses, walkways and coastal assets. In the pay less scenario, it’s a 58% cut to capital budget.

The other proposal that’s currently being worked through at Council is the reorganisation proposal that contemplates the amalgamation of local boards where there are two boards in a ward. If this proceeds it means a blending of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board with the Upper Harbour Local Board under the Albany Ward, as well as a blend of the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board with the Kaipātiki Local Board under the North Shore Ward. As representatives of the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, we feel that this is a problematic approach to improving engagement and cutting cost. Rather than improve engagement, what we think we’ll see is a further distancing of elected members from their communities, and a dilution of our local voice at the decision-making table, as the DevonportTakapuna Local Board will only occupy five seats on a new 12-seat board. It will be mid-year when a reorganisation proposal goes out for public consultation. I’ll keep you posted.

… we recently opened the Allenby Reserve playground in Devonport alongside 1st Devonport Scouts and what a beauty it is.

In some positive news, we recently opened the Allenby Reserve playground in Devonport alongside 1st Devonport Scouts and what a beauty it is. Built to fit in the leafy environment, we’ve used more natural materials and included heaps of climbing ropes that challenge little bodies. We’ve also included a wheelchair accessible spinner and basket swing.

We’re also excited that we’ll soon see a new concept design for the Knightsbridge playground renewal. The majority of residents who live in this area are of Asian descent and so we’ve done some robust consultation with community groups and it’s looking like it’s going to be an exciting dragon-like design.

We’re still trying to work towards a happy outcome on the Kennedy Park stairs, and we’re hoping to get geotech reports soon that will tell us whether or not these can be renewed. We know they’re important to our community in Castor Bay, so let’s all keep our fingers and toes crossed we can get the approval and the budget to get them renewed.

Have a great April everyone.

Toni van Tonder, Chair, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board

Email: toni.vantonder@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna

Sending art somewhere?

Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one stop shop" when you need to send artwork, sculptures, ceramics and antiques – anywhere. No matter how large, awkward, valuable or fragile the item is, you can rely on Pack & Send's experienced operators to package it and get it delivered, safely.

Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna, have a "No limits" approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems around art and antiques. "Many of the items we have dealt with are valuable," says Jeremy.

"Not only in the monetary sense but because the pieces may have been handed down through the family for generations. It's irreplaceable on so many levels."

It doesn't matter where it's going, New York, London, Sydney, Dunedin – the same care and attention is given to every consignment.

"We'll collect it, package it, take care of the documentation, track it right through to the destination and get it signed for," says Jane.

As well, Pack & Send customers can use their Freight Plus warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mindsomething not generally available when freighting artworks.

For those really delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack & Send can use its state of the art "Foam in Place" packaging system, which forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.

"We also produce custom-made boxes and cases to any size or shape," adds Jeremy.

"Because we treat each consignment as unique, designing packaging and the freight solutions to suit, we're finding that more and more people benefit from our services."

Pack & Send provides service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles.

Total protection

• For delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack & Send Takapuna can use its state of the art 'Foam in Place' packaging system.

• Foam in Place forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.

• Use the Freight Plus warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind - something not generally available when freighting artworks.

Pack & Send Takapuna open Mon – Sat, located at 77 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna with exclusive and convenient parking outside.

Ph 486 3355 or email takapuna@packsend.co.nz and let them make sending easy.

Prime Minister kicks off busy quarter for North Harbour Club

The North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust’s year continues to be a busy one with lots on through the months of April, May and June. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is the guest speaker for the sold-out lunch at North Harbour Stadium on Thursday 11 April, and there are plenty of other events as well.

'Believe It or Not’ Quiz Night

– Thursday 23 May, at the B:Hive Smales Farm

The North Harbour Club is hosting a Believe It or Not Quiz Night on Thursday 23 May at the B:Hive at Smales Farm. Doors open at 5pm with the quiz starting at 5.30pm sharp.

The night consists of teams of six battling it out to become the North Harbour Club Quiz Champions for 2024. Believe It or Not is a great quiz format with multimedia – it’s all on the big screen. Prizes are up for grabs for winning team, runners up and last-person standing.

Just $160 plus gst gets your team of six entry. If you want to come along and be allocated into a team the price is $25 plus gst for members and $35 plus gst for non-members. Pricing includes quiz, pizza, snacks and drinks. All NHC members and their guests are welcome.

Numbers are limited and this event will sell out so book early. Book your tickets by Friday 17 May at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz

BEN BREAKFAST with William Pike

– Tuesday 28 May at Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna Adventurer, educator, author and businessman William Pike is the speaker at the North Harbour Club’s Business Excellence Network ‘BEN’ Breakfast on Tuesday 28 May.

William Pike is a Kiwi on an extraordinary journey – from overcoming the loss of a leg in a volcanic eruption to launching a nationwide youth development programme, exploring Antartica, to inventing a prosthetic device that’s helping amputees around the world.

This will be a breakfast presentation not to miss. The former Westlake Boys student motivates and inspires by sharing his miraculous survival story on Mt Ruapehu. He will talk about his William Pike Challenge programme, encouraging youth to step beyond their comfort zones. William has also written an autobiography ‘Every Day’s a Good Day’ and his work developing the prosthetic device 'Pro Armour’ is hugely interesting.

William is a sought-after motivational speaker who will be very inspiring and entertaining. Get in quick as this breakfast event with sell out.

Visit: northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz

AIMES Awards Gala Dinner

– Friday 7 June at the Bruce Mason Theatre

Join us for ‘A Night in Paris’ as we celebrate our 2024 AIMES Award recipients at our gala night of the year at the wonderful Bruce Mason Theatre. The venue will be transformed for the themed event. This enchanting evening promises to be an Olympic-sized celebration, recognising the outstanding achievements of our talented young individuals in the North Harbour Region. Come adorned in your finest 'Black Tie Beret’ and indulge in a sumptuous three-course meal complemented by exquisite wines.

Book now for this fabulous gala event. Secure your seat early as tickets will be limited for this extraordinary celebration! Email info@northharbourclub.co.nz

Other upcoming North Harbour Club Events in 2024

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

Downsizing considerations

Downsizing the family home can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and consideration, it can also be a liberating and rewarding experience. Here are some key factors to consider when embarking on this journey.

First, assess your current needs and lifestyle. How much space do you actually use on a daily basis? Can you identify any areas that are rarely utilised? Consider your future and whether your new home needs to accommodate any potential changes, such as ageing or accommodating frequent visitors.

Next, declutter ruthlessly. Downsizing is the perfect opportunity to streamline your belongings and purge items you no longer need or love. Be mindful of sentimental items, but also be realistic about what you can take with you to your new, smaller space.

When searching for a new home, prioritise location and amenities that align with your lifestyle goals. Consider factors such as proximity to family and friends, access to healthcare facilities, recreational activities, and public transport. Additionally, think about the maintenance requirements of the property.

When searching for a new home, prioritise location and amenities that align with your lifestyle goals.

Financial considerations are also crucial when downsizing. Calculate your budget carefully, factoring in not only the purchase price of your new home but also ongoing expenses such as rates, body corp fees, utilities, and maintenance costs. Keep in mind that downsizing can also free up equity in your current home, providing additional funds for retirement or other financial goals.

Finally, enlist the help of professionals to guide you through the downsizing process. A real estate agent experienced in working with downsizers can help you find the perfect home. Consider hiring a professional organiser for decluttering and organising your belongings.

In conclusion, downsizing the family home requires careful planning and consideration. By assessing your needs, decluttering mindfully, choosing the right home, managing your finances wisely, and seeking professional assistance, you can successfully downsize and embrace the next chapter of your life.

Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is a straight talker who enjoys an open communication style and ethical business model. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Masters degree in business and administration and speaks English and Chinese fluently.

Yan Davies 燕

021 585 590

yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz

Licensed under the REA Act 2008

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management Barfoot and Thompson Milford

How to find a good tenant

Finding a good tenant is crucial for landlords who want to maintain their property's value and ensure a positive rental experience. It all starts with presenting a well-maintained property that appeals to potential renters. Here are some key steps to follow to find the perfect tenant.

Property presentation: A clean, tidy, and well-presented property will attract more tenants. Before listing the property, ensure it is in top condition. This includes: house washing, gutter cleaning, tidying gardens, mowing lawns, and cleaning both the interior and exterior thoroughly.

Accurate pricing: Research comparable properties in the area to determine a fair rental price. Overpricing may deter potential tenants while under-pricing could lead to missed revenue. If you’re not getting solid interest in the first seven to 10 days, this often means the asking rental is too high.

Modern amenities: Tenants are drawn to properties with modern kitchens, bathrooms, and ample storage space. Using areas like a garage or shed for storage of the landlord’s possessions is not recommended. Homes in modern condition have the most demand and attract premium rents.

Effective marketing: List the property on multiple platforms to reach a wider audience. High-quality, accurate photos and clear, detailed descriptions in advertising are essential.

Include maintenance: If the property has a feature garden, spa or pool, include maintenance and upkeep in the rent to attract more tenants, while ensuring specialised maintenance is undertaken.

Property viewings: Schedule viewing times appropriately for working professionals, taking into account location and traffic. Arrive early to viewings and be prepared to answer any questions potential tenants may have.

Streamline applications: Make the application process straightforward, while collecting all the information you need, and act promptly on vetting potential tenants. Conduct thorough background, reference, and credit checks to ensure the suitability of applicants.

Clear communication: Keep lines of communication open with tenants throughout the letting process. Ensure the terms of the tenancy agreement, including deposit and bond collection and tenant responsibilities, are clearly understood by both parties.

By following these steps and prioritising the needs of both the property and potential tenants, landlords can increase the likelihood of finding a reliable and responsible tenant for their rental property.

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management

Barfoot and Thompson Milford 027 431 9536

milford.rental@barfoot.co.nz

By Fantasia Nair

Navigating the uncharted waters of university

The pivotal decision to embark on when enrolling in university this semester was strenuous but precise. I felt conflicted at the crossroads of my future, assessing my interests while also promising a bright future in terms of possibilities for job growth, which is necessary given the society we live in.

I had a sobering awakening that I had grown up, which was tough for me to accept. I realised that I no longer had someone leading me through my education and that it was up to me to succeed, which is what you would expect from an only child. The realisation that the decisions I make now are the foundation of my future frightened me and put heaps of pressure on me. I started questioning myself whether I was prepared for university, and if I had seen enough of the world to gain exposure. My thoughts oscillated between making my father proud and making something out of myself. For me, university was an opportunity to repay my parents for sacrificing their own lives to ensure that I could experience a better life, with better education, surroundings and possibilities. This was juxtaposed with concerns over my degree choice and the drastic lifestyle changes that university necessitated. I felt the pressure of not being able to balance working and upholding myself financially while simultaneously adapting to a new learning environment, managing my time effectively, and interacting with family and friends. After months of bottled emotions, I still remained apprehensive about the journey upon which I was about to embark.

One of the most immediate differences I encountered attending university was the shift in academic expectations and responsibilities. Unlike the structured environment of high school, with teachers closely guiding the academic journey, university offers a landscape of intellectual freedom that demands a higher level of self-discipline and initiative. From sitting in a class with 30 students I was sitting in a lecture theatre of 400 students from different age groups and diverse ethnicities. I found it easy to adjust to the change of academia as being independent comes naturally to me, but a difficulty that I found was that I tend to ask questions about my work to ensure that it is up to standard.

I found that seeking out resources like tutoring and study groups and embracing the freedom to explore subjects deeply and independently is beneficial. You may have a stigma of it being ‘nerdy’ but I ended up making new friendships, which allowed us to ask questions amongst ourselves.

During this shift, my social landscape experienced a similarly substantial transition, with new environments encouraging the formation of diverse and long-lasting relationships. From my experience in high school, friendships have taken years to strengthen. My friends from primary school have grown up with me, forming new friendships and doing stupid things together. However, because we were all confronted with university, with some of us travelling abroad and others moving away from Auckland, we were forced to venture outside our comfort zones and form new connections while remaining in touch. University introduces a sea of new faces from varied backgrounds, offering the chance to build a diverse network of friendships. 'O week' is something I encourage everyone to attend, with different themes each night in town, social activities held at the universities, and opportunities to join clubs of your interests.

The emotional aspect of this transaction cannot be overstated. For me, university was and still is a period of self-discovery, filled with highs and lows. I suggest being attentive to noticing what your mood and behaviours are, and managing your stress levels. Something that stresses me out is submitting my assignments at the last minute. I know it's annoying and you

can't be bothered and you may claim that you work better under stress, but my advice to you is to be ahead of your lecture notes and assignments, in order to be prepared. Self-control and management are extremely important aspects in university that high school necessarily doesn’t prepare you for; therefore the transition, shock and realisation can be nerve-racking. The best thing you can do is look after yourself and prioritise your mental health. I am not implying that this will be an easy process, but I am saying that if you get into good habits now, it will follow you throughout your journey in university. Something that worked for me is writing a ‘todo list’ on my notes of the tasks I need to do every day, so that I am on top of things daily, and also creating a calendar to which I add when my lectures are and the study I need to do for them.

The transition from high school to university is an important turning point of transformation. It's time to embrace change, explore passions, and carve a path to future goals. While the shift might be difficult, it also provides unrivalled chances for growth and self-discovery. Take it slow and enjoy every moment, don’t forget to socialise with your friends and family, and have fun!

Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Ellie Brown bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.

The magic of Camp Week

As long as one can remember, week 4 of Term 1 has always been Camp Week at Kristin. A major highlight on the calendar and a week that provides so much for students, Camp Week is part of the ingrained fabric at our school and is eagerly anticipated every year.

Students from Years 7 to 13 pack their bags and embark on a fun-and-challenge-filled week-long adventure with their year group peers and teachers. Destinations are spread far and wide, with locations including Waipu Cove, Raglan, Lake Karāpiro, Mahurangi, Taupō Bay, Motoura Island, Whananaki, Kai Iwi Lakes, Tongariro, Tāwharanui, and Central North Island rivers, as well as our Tertiary Futures Year 13 camp which visits

universities in Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. Having a vast range of locations means students get a completely diverse camp experience each year.

Organisationally, it is a massive logistical exercise involving a lot of planning and preparation to help ensure the week goes smoothly, and after the challenges that were strewn across this special week last year by Cyclone Gabrielle, the skies were clear this year and around 1280 Middle and Senior School students jumped onto buses and headed off to their various camp locations.

Whether it’s catching a wave for the first time, hiking a mountain, conquering a fear of heights on a high rope course, kayaking a white water river or cooking a meal on an

open fire, there is an abundance of unique experiences and activities that our students embrace whilst on camp.

Not only do students encounter these golden, memorable moments, but they learn so many valuable lessons along the way. Teamwork, confidence, leadership, encouraging others, overcoming fears, getting out of their comfort zones, developing new skills, growing fresh desires to explore or discovering a love for certain activities that they would have never considered trying. Camp Week provides it all. New friendships are fostered, and cherished memories are created, both of which are then carried on or recounted for years to come.

Camp Week is a magical time of year.

Debating champions

Congratulations to one of our outstanding debating teams which recently won the Auckland Schools’ Seasonal Championships debating competition. Our team of Matthew Zheng, Nicole Wong and Catherine Chen took on schools from around Auckland and went undefeated to win the overall Championship Division title. Not only did they succeed as a team, but Matthew was crowned the best speaker of the entire tournament, with Catherine second and Nicole fourth – exceptional results ahead of the Auckland Regional Championships in late March.

Year 7 students provide items for Ethiopian children

This year, two of our Year 7 classes had the opportunity to support a Kristin family travelling to Ethiopia to volunteer at a home for orphans and vulnerable children, working for an organisation called Aerie Africa.

Students put in a mammoth effort and collected many items to send to the Wolaita Soddo region of Ethiopia to help this organisation in its fantastic work. Donations included backpacks, shoes, hats, sports equipment and school and craft supplies, all of which will be invaluable for these students. Well done to the family and students involved, as well as the Aerie Africa organisation, for making a real difference.

Catherine Chen, Nichole Wong, Matthew Zheng

Rangitoto College’s Kotahitanga Day builds connections in kura

Kotahitanga Day is an annual celebration that promotes a sense of community for our students new to the kura. On Wednesday 13 March, Year 9 students had the opportunity to participate in team building exercises to help them create strong bonds and unity within their classes and to further develop a sense of belonging here at Rangitoto College.

It was a fantastic event enjoyed by over 800 students. Supported by our student leaders and peer support leaders, Year 9

students rotated through 13 fun stations where they were challenged to problem solve and work as a team to complete the activities and earn points for their class. Over the course of the term, peer support leaders worked with their tutor classes to create a chant and paint a class flag which they proudly displayed during the day. Initially, we had light rain, but the day turned out to be filled with sunshine. We were so proud of our students for

their excellent behaviour and positive engagement. Feedback from the Year 9 cohort was very positive. A huge thanks to Lexi Gallagher-Parkinson for the huge amount of effort put into organising the day. We appreciate the time and energy put in by teachers and deans involved in the day. A special mention also to our student leaders for their superb support in leading activities and being exceptional role models for our Year 9 students. We are so proud of you all.

Linda He

“It was fun, we learnt to collaborate better with my classmates. The tug of war was my favourite event because everyone was trying their hardest and all working together.”

Emily Long

“It was good to hang out with friends, and great to compete in different houses. Volleyball was my favourite as it was a good sport to play different teams. I made new friends by versing other classes. Our tutor class chant was great.”

Our exceptional Pacific Committee Leaders

First Pacific hui unites community

Kia orana, Nisa bula vinaka, Talofa lava, and Malo e lelei,

On Wednesday 28 February, the Pacific tutor class at Rangitoto College hosted its first whānau hui. The Year 13 Pacific leaders, Charlie Hodge and Ben Bibbie, hosted a successful evening with over 180 people in attendance. As the first of its kind, the Pacific hui allowed our students, their families, and their teachers to come together to celebrate the announcement of the Pacific Committee leaders, watch a beautiful siva dance performance, and hear about the exciting academic initiatives in this space. After the evening, Year 12 student Rosita Misipati was looking forward to the year because it will give her an opportunity to choreograph more siva performances for everyone to enjoy.

One of our new initiatives is that we will provide Year 11 students with a study space where study skills will be shared with them by our academic leaders. This will be a bridge, a stepping stone from the familiarity of Year 10 to help students approach the Rangitoto Diploma with confidence. Year 11 student Mikey Sykes, is excited to promote this space after having attended

the first session. One-on-one mentoring and support options will still continue for our Year 12 and Year 13 students. Our attendance at Polyfest and the Polynesian Panthers workshop serve as a catalyst for increasing and strengthening the bonds within our Pacific cohort. Year 11 student, Terily Taua looks at these events as amazing and fun ways to connect with her culture and learn about other cultures. All these exciting initiatives and events allow our students to lead by example and create an environment where every Pacific student feels empowered to step into the greatness they are capable of.

Amidst laughter, smiles, music, delicious food, and dancing, the Pacific whānau hui was a resounding success. The evening was a testament to the power of our Pacific community in coming together and succeeding as a community.

A big thank you to our PA tutor class for decorating, hosting the evening, and packing up afterwards. Thank you to our Deputy Principal, Olivia Newman, and PA tutor teachers, Diana Tuisalega and Carmelita Maletino for their dedication in growing this space in our kura.

We look forward to hosting our next hui in Term 3.

The night was hosted by students Charlie Hodge and Ben Bibbie

Lavalava added to school uniform

We have just marked a historic moment at Westlake Boys after introducing the formal lavalava to our school uniform.

Pasifika student leader Jarlon Lesatele wrote to Headmaster Mr David Ferguson in January asking if the Pasifika students could wear the formal item of clothing with the traditional school uniform. Mr Ferguson said he should put in a proposal which he did.

“We had a discussion within school on this and then the Board approved it so it was straightforward as that,’ said Mr Ferguson.

Jarlon said he shared why it should be a part of the uniform, “including how it expresses our culture within the school, increases the diversity, and how it’s good for our school to take steps forward in enhancing our Pasifika culture”.

“I got a few notes from all the other boys who were part of it as well, just basically why I wanted to do it.”

Lavalava is the most formal attire in Pasifika culture. It is a modern rendition of a traditional article of clothing, known also as a sulu va taga in Fiji, a Ie faitaga in Samoa and a tupenu in Tonga.

Mr Ferguson said if you speak to the boys great that they're proud about wearing traditional Pacific clothing.

“We have a formal number one uniform that all the boys wear every day and occasionally boys would wear the lavalava on special occasions at school, but it will in future just be part and parcel of the regular uniform.”

Students will wear their own plain black or dark grey lavalava until an official

school lavalava becomes available, Mr Ferguson added.

Mr Che Muller, Pasifika dean, said the reaction to students wearing lavalava as part of the uniform had been “overwhelmingly positive”.

“It's quite noticeable when the boys are walking around school,” he said.

Students show mana and pride

The annual House Haka is a highlight at our school and this year was no different with each house performing with mana and pride on Friday, 8 March.

In the end, Murchison House led by Deputy Head Boy and Te Manutaki Māori Charlie Buchanan took first place. Kei runga noa atu koutou!

This year the competition was held in honour of student Samin Lee and longserving teacher Mr Simon Smith who passed away last year.

Head Boy Matt Young spoke about his friend Samin, who would have been a prefect

this year and whose birthday was on the day of the House Haka competition..

"Samin is the definition of what it means to be a Westlake student and what it means to be a good person. He is the embodiment of our values of Virtute Experiamur and of kindness and of excellence."

"If I can pass on any lesson for you boys sitting here today, it is that if you put your name down to do things and give your best in all rounds of endeavour, there's no way that you can truly fail, you can only learn."

As a tribute to Samin and Mr Smith, the whole school performed Te Haka o Ururoto

at the end of the competition. It was a powerful display from 2500 students.

Thank you to Mātua Johnny Waititi who organised the event and to the staff, judges and boys for all their efforts in making the competition such a success.

Pasifika students Ezra Morgan-Tafea, Jarlon Lesatele and Chinedu Isichei proudly wear their lavalava

Smale House haka leaders give a powerful display

Pupuke House

Deputy Head Boy Charlie Buchanan

Blake Lidgard leads Hood House

Westlake productions return with two blockbuster shows!

Hold onto your hats, folks, because Westlake Schools’ productions are making a triumphant return with not one, but two sensational shows guaranteed to thrill audiences!

Brace yourselves for swashbuckling action with The Three Musketeers, where swords will clash, and heroes will rise in an epic production that’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Then, get ready to be swept off your feet with the delightful rom-com musical, Crazy for You, featuring toe-tapping tunes performed by an award-winning Westlake student cast and orchestra.

Last year, Westlake Schools’ production of Into the Woods took Auckland by storm at the prestigious Auckland Live Showdown Awards, clinching seven awards, including the coveted title of Auckland Live Best Production of 2023. With a track record like that, you can rest assured that these shows will be nothing short of spectacular!

Crazy for You kicks off the excitement on Tuesday 30 April, followed by The

Softball champs

Our softball team entered the National Secondary School Champs at Rosedale on Monday, 18 March in high spirits for the week ahead.

Three victories and one loss during round-robin play, saw the team advance to the play-offs in second spot. The first playoff game was against Mt Albert Grammar in the 2 v 3 match-up, with the Westlake side grinding out a 5 – 2 victory. This meant a 1 v 2 showdown with Alfriston College, the only team who defeated them in the early stages, with the winner going straight to the national final. The talented Alfriston team got the better of our boys once again, with a 6 – 2 win, and with it a direct path to the final. The loss meant a fresh challenge against St Peter’s College who emerged through the play-offs. MAGS started the better in this elimination game, but the Westlake side reeled them in to record a 5 – 2 win and set up a grand final match-up with Alfriston.

The national anthem followed by stirring haka by both Westlake and Alfriston set the stage for a tense decider. Neither side gave much away in the early

Three Musketeers on Wednesday 1 May. Both shows are at Westlake Boys High School, and run until Saturday 11 May.

Tickets are available to purchase from iTICKET.

stages, with runs scored until the bottom of the third when a Morgan Seymour drive generated a game-changing two-run lead for Westlake. Taine Wilson immediately followed this up by driving Seymour home, before a Cooper Watson hit almost added further to the scoreboard.

Tight pitching from Tai Rhodes and flawless fielding by the Westlake team made it difficult for Alfriston to create any momentum, scoring was nullified until the bottom of the fifth innings when an explosive hit from Demetrius Sanft propelled him into scoring position, before Morgan Seymour did the rest, to ensure a 4 – 0 lead for Westlake.

The heroics continued in the sixth

inning when Korban McKinlay hit an in-field home run, before Corban Dudley and Demtrius Sanft capitalised on some Alfriston errors to end the game at 7 –0. Westlake Boys are National Softball Champions for the first time since 1984.

None of this would have been possible without the efforts of an outstanding coach and management team. Thank you to Mr Wayne Rhodes and Mr Logan Esau for their coaching and guidance of the team, to Mrs Tamarin Seymour for her planning and organisation to make this season happen, and to our incredibly committed and supportive softball parents. The returning group will look forward to defending their title in 2025.

The two production crews go over their routines during a four-day camp at Marsden Bay.

Athletics Day

On Friday 1 March, our entire school went to AUT Millennium for our 2024 Athletics Day. It was a superb day in the sun, and everyone had a fantastic time. Congratulations to all the students who took part.

Clubs & Activities Expo

This year, Westlake Girls has a staggering number of clubs and activities to join – nearly 80! The annual expo was held in our covered courts. It was a great success, and we’re looking forward to seeing all the groups’ news as the year progresses.

Visual Arts Trip

In February, the Year 10 visual arts cohort enjoyed a morning at Long Bay Beach reserve. The primary goal of the trip was to steer students away from online image searches and immerse them in nature. The students also enjoyed a weaving workshop run by former student Emma Ormsby.

Westlake welcomes Japanese students

On Monday, 4 March, a group of 18 Japanese students from Shinagawa Junior High School in Tokyo arrived at WGHS for a two-week study programme. While here, they divide their time between studying with their student buddies and visiting Auckland.

Rocky Surprises

The Year 12 biology cohort visited Long Bay Regional Park to study rocky shore community patterns and collect data for the 2.6 Internal. They discovered a rich ecosystem teeming with diverse life forms, from barnacles to oysters and snails.

Students explore science behind hāngī

A group of Rosmini College food technology and earth & space science students recently joined forces to learn about and prepare a traditional Māori hāngī as part of their internal assessment.

The hāngī experience was not just a lesson in science and culture, but also a lesson in teamwork and collaboration. Students worked together to prepare the hāngī, rose at 4am to dig the pit, layered the food, and covered it with earth to cook. It was a hands-on learning experience that allowed them to see the fruits of their labour and appreciate the effort that goes into traditional Māori cooking, while learning about the principles of heat transfer.

Of course, the highlight of the day was tasting the food, and there were many requests for second helpings!

Rosmini College Open Day

On Thursday 16 May 2024 Rosmini College will open its doors for prospective new students in 2025. Families are invited to come along from 1.30pm–3pm to listen to a presentation in the auditorium and take a guided tour of the school.

The online application form for enrolment in 2025 is available on the school website.

Enrolment queries to Eunice 09 488 3750 or email enquiries@rosmini.school.nz.

Students enjoy learning to sail

Rosmini College annual Year 7 sailing day in early March was a fantastic experience for the newest students to the school. As well as learning a new skill, the boys had the opportunity to bond with their peers, create memories and appreciate the natural environment on their doorstep.

It's great to hear that they had a fun and enriching day on Lake Pupuke.

Rosmini well represented in national water polo

Water polo is strong at Rosmini College as a number students have been selected to represent New Zealand at upcoming international tournaments.

Deputy Head Boy Ethan McKolskey has been named in the New Zealand U20 water polo squad as goalie, and Year 11 Louis McFarlane has been named in the New Zealand U16 water polo team travelling to the world championships in Malta during June. Ed Wescott has also been named as a non-travelling reserve.

These students add to Rosmini’s other New Zealand representatives, Mathew Mihaljevich and Mason Stewart, who are about to travel to Barcelona in April as members of the New Zealand U18 men’s squad.

We Will Rock You is coming soon!

Anticipation is building as the school prepares for its production of We Will Rock You, set to hit the stage at the Bruce Mason Centre from 6 – 8 May.

The show follows Bohemian misfits and rebels as they struggle to claw back their creative freedom and identity in a futuristic world controlled by the Globalsoft corporation and its ruthless leader, the Killer Queen.

Enter Galileo – an accidental hero who discovers his ability to inspire and unite the Bohemians with the forgotten music of Queen. Together, they draw upon the power of song to overthrow the evil masters of their dystopia.

Show director and Head of Drama at Takapuna Grammar, Bruce De Grut, says the show is a crazy journey of humour,

contemporary references and infectious music. “What I love about this show is that it celebrates an incredibly important message around the value of creative freedom and personal expression, but at the same time it doesn’t take itself seriously at all. It’s been wonderful to see how much fun our students are having as they explore and refine their characters and performance.”

Head of the performing arts faculty, Lauren Raby, agrees the cast and support crew are primed to deliver a stand-out show saying, “The collaborative process of pulling together a school production is always incredibly gratifying. The input of all 300 students involved, from the cast and band members, through to the dancers and all the back of house teams, has been outstanding.

We are all very excited for show time, and we know the audience is going to have a ball.”

Promotional teasers for We Will Rock You are available to view online now on our Takapuna Grammar School website or the TGS Performing Arts Facebook page. The performance season includes three evening shows and one matinee; tickets can be purchased on Ticketmaster.

Education outside the classroom

School camps are events that stay in students’ memories well past their time at Carmel College

Year 8 Camp

Year 8 students experienced camp, held at Finlay Park, Cambridge during the week of 26 February. Students took part in a range of fun activities, from paddle boarding to archery. There were also some challenges including squelching around in kneedeep mud, or making dresses out of just newspaper and string. Students, staff and parents made the Year 8 camp experience engaging and memorable.

Year 12 Camp

Year 12 students started their camp week recently at National Park with torrential rain, sub-ten-degree temperatures and cloudy skies. As the week progressed the weather made a slight turn for the better which meant daily activities could be enjoyed, including the Tongariro Crossing

and the alternative Old Coach Road walk. Students, teachers and parents enjoyed beautiful walks with clear skies and spectacular views. As well as a camp concert, students took part in biology, geography, history, English, retreat or amazing race activities during the week.

Geography field work on Milford Beach

Recently 50 of Carmel’s Year 11 geographers visited Milford Beach. The aim of the trip was to test the cleanliness of Milford Beach. The students sampled 23m2 of beach across three sample sites, testing for macro and micro plastics. Sadly, the research confirmed what we feared: the beach is not clean. The students identified 1446 pieces of plastic, averaging 63 pieces per square metre; the majority being micro plastics, measuring between 1-4mm.

Valuing confusion, conflict and collision in teenagers

Thoughts from Francis Joung, Principal

When introducing Harbour College, a question that is most frequently asked is also the one that is asked of every educational organisation: “How is this school different?”

While there are many answers to this, I feel that the key difference is how we value and handle the 'three Cs' that all children must face as they grow; confusion, conflict and collision.

It may seem counterintuitive to feel that we value confusion, conflict and collision that can occur with our students, as it seems like something that we should not want our kids to experience. Some parents certainly go to excessive lengths to protect their children from these necessary experiences of learning. They could not be more wrong. Growth, in every facet of human development, doesn’t just happen in a consistent linear manner; it occurs in layers, and every layer is marked by an event of confusion, conflict or collision.

Maths – arguably students’ least favourite subject – is a great example, as each topic

has defined learning outcomes. If students are not experiencing any confusion or moments of uncertainty, this means that they already know the topic, i.e. there is no learning involved. If the students are truly learning, there MUST be a period of confusion that leads to further attempts to understand the topic, before gaining insights and proficiency. And unlike many other subjects, mathematics is much more black-and-white when it comes to the experiential learning pathway of confusion → resilience → practice → proficiency.

However, all learnings actually take the same pathway. The greatest learning of all for teenagers is social proficiency, where thoughts and behaviours are formed through the resolution or non-resolution of lived experiences of various personal conflicts. And our children need close guidance from adults – i.e. teachers – to resolve conflicts so they can move to the next layer of learning. Non-resolutions can, unfortunately, lead to the adaptation of

unhelpful behaviours, or a persistent state of confusion/conflict. Helping our teens to resolve conflicts is not an easy task at all. In fact, due to the ambiguous, complex, and subjective nature of social conflicts, combined with limited resources, many schools either don’t have time for it or revert to a punitive approach where some students are named as naughty or unruly.

But these are the times when teachers (and in fact parents) can make the most profound difference in our teens. When they are struggling due to confusion, conflicts or collision, that is the opportunity for the teachers to step up, make genuine connections, and do their job so the students can truly learn the perspective of valuing adversities in life. Although they may often look like they don’t want adults' help, we have never seen a student who did not value genuine non-judgmental interventions from the teachers at times of challenge. And that’s the difference at Harbour College.

Francis Joung, Principal

The costly consequences of inadequate legal advice

Peggy and Thomas had been in a relationship for several years. Peggy had three children from an earlier marriage and they had one child together. For the first few years, they kept their assets separate and then when they decided that this was going to be forever, they agreed to pool their assets and buy a home together. That extended to eventually a bach in Mangawhai as well.

Peggy was CFO in a large company based on the Shore. When Peggy and Thomas purchased their bach, their lawyer told them it would be a good idea to think about putting their assets into a trust. He said that because of Peggy’s quasi-director role and the fact that she was potentially an officer of the company for health and safety purposes, it was wise to ensure that their assets would be protected in a trust. Even though Peggy had more cash to put into the trust assets and children from a previous relationship, the lawyer said that just one trust between the two of them would be fine. He said that they didn’t need to over-complicate things.

He also went on to say that the cash going into the trust to purchase the home and bach should be lent to the trust. He said that while we no longer had gift duty in New Zealand, it was best to be conservative and leave the amounts going into the trust owed to each of Peggy and Thomas. He said that this would mean if they separated, they would be able to get their original amounts out of the trust. He was also not a big fan of gifting.

Thomas had a nagging thought at the back of his mind that this didn’t seem to be quite right. He wondered whether he should go and get his own independent advice but didn’t say anything as he really wanted to show unity with Peggy. But he did remember some friends talking about this and saying sometimes with blended families one big joint trust was not always a good way to go. He also wondered about whether he and Peggy needed to do new wills, but the lawyer didn’t say anything, so he didn’t raise it. Thomas knew that he and Peggy would be marrying soon anyway, and he thought that would change things when they were husband and wife.

Once the estate planning exercise was completed, Thomas was owed $250,000 by the trust, being the equity that he had brought to the relationship and Peggy was owed $1,050,000. Their wills remained the same and said that if one of them died, the other would receive all the assets and then once they both died Peggy’s children and their joint child would share in all the assets. They had also done a memorandum of wishes advising the trustees that all assets would be held until they both died and then distributed to all the children equally.

Sadly, not long after the trust was established and after Peggy and Thomas had married, Peggy had a massive heart attack. She was on life support for three days and then died. Thomas was devastated but felt a sense of relief that they had addressed their asset planning position before they had got married.

Thomas went to see the lawyer that he and Peggy had gone to, who was a bit blasé about the whole thing. One of his friends recommended he go and see a lawyer that specialised in asset planning and trusts.

When Thomas went to see the lawyer, he was horrified to find that when he and Peggy married, by law, their wills become null and void. This meant that Peggy’s will was invalid and her estate would be governed by the Administration Act. Thomas was relieved for a moment because all their assets were in the trust, until he remembered that the trust still owed Peggy $1,050,000 because the previous lawyer didn’t agree with gifting. Under the Administration Act this mean that Thomas would be assigned $150,000 of the debt owed by the trust to Peggy as well as 1/3 of the balance and the remaining 2/3 ($600,000) would be owed to Peggy’s children who could demand payment of the debt. This would mean that the trust would need to sell the bach to pay out Peggy’s children and pay tax on the increase in value given the bright-line test rules. This was far from the outcome Thomas and Peggy had envisaged when they first went to the lawyer for advice.

It is so important to seek specialist asset planning advice. Often people don’t think that their circumstances are complicated but there may be legal twists and turns that you don’t think of that a specialist will be able to help you navigate.

Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law

09 883 3282

DAVENPORTSLAW.CO.NZ

Tammy McLeod (BA LLB) is the managing director at Davenports Law and a trust and asset structuring specialist. Tammy leads the Davenports Trust Team and enjoys providing clients with advice and assistance on a broad range of issues involving the structuring and establishment of asset plans, interpretation of trust deeds, the management and administration of trust funds and trust disputes. An important part of Tammy’s practice is reviewing existing asset holding structures to ensure they achieve the needs and requirements they were established to meet. She is also experienced in Property (Relationships) Act issues and advises clients on both contracting out agreements and separation.

Asset Protection. Considering Everything Together.

The protection of assets that we have worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people. Trusts provide protection of those invaluable assets, which allow a person to hold property and assets on behalf of another - for the good of the beneficiaries.

It is just as important to ensure that other forms of asset structuring are up to date and considered in relation to your trusts structure. These include your will and enduring powers of attorney.

Contact Tammy McLeod or one of the Trust Team for specialist asset structuring and planning advice.

CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND.

Accountancy with Mike Atkinson of Bellingham Wallace

IRD - Reviews, BCPs and audits

With the tax year at an end, The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) will be looking at ensuring that all tax returns and necessary information have been declared and correctly reported.

IRD is responsible for collecting and administering taxes in New Zealand. The Commissioner of Inland Revenue has various powers and responsibilities to ensure that taxpayers comply with their tax obligations. One of the Commissioner's powers is to request and obtain any/all tax information from any taxpayer in New Zealand through various intermediaries such as banks, immigration and the land office to name a few. Another power is the ability to impose various penalties on taxpayers who breach the tax rules. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of some proactive reviews and steps that the Commissioner can initiate.

Risk reviews

The IRD conducts risk reviews to identify and address potential tax risks and issues. Risk reviews are not audits, but they may lead to an audit if the IRD find evidence of non-compliance or discrepancies. Risk reviews can be initiated by the IRD based on various factors, such as:

• Data matching and analysis

• Information from third parties or other government agencies

• Industry or sector trends and benchmarks

• Taxpayer behaviour or history.

The IRD may contact taxpayers or their representatives to request information or documents, or to arrange a meeting or a visit. Taxpayers are expected to cooperate with the IRD and provide accurate and complete information within the specified timeframe. If taxpayers do not cooperate, the IRD may escalate the matter to an audit or use other powers available by statute to seek taxpayer compliance.

Basic compliance package (BCP)

A new strategy was implemented by Inland Revenue in 2012 to enhance the compliance of significant enterprises generally based on a turnover threshold or personal wealth of a taxpayer in some instances.

As part of this strategy, all significant enterprises are required to submit a basic compliance package (BCP) every year, which consists of information on group structure, financial statements and tax reconciliations. These documents are then scrutinised by Inland Revenue. The level of compliance intervention is determined by the risk rating from the BCP review, past history and other intelligence. The intervention can vary from no action to further review or a full audit if needed.

Audit

The IRD conducts audits to verify the accuracy and completeness of taxpayers' tax returns and records. Audits can be triggered by risk reviews, information from third parties or other sources, or random selection. Audits can vary in scope and duration, depending on the complexity and nature of the tax issue.

One of the Commissioner's powers is to request and obtain any/all tax information from any taxpayer in New Zealand through various intermediaries such as banks, immigration and the land office to name a few.

The IRD will notify taxpayers or their representatives of the audit process and expectations. The IRD will also assign an auditor who will be the main point of contact for the audit. The auditor will request information or documents from taxpayers or their representatives, and may also conduct interviews, site visits or inspections. The auditor will analyse the information and documents provided and seek internal and external support as necessary.

The auditor will then issue a draft audit report, which will outline the findings and conclusions of the audit, as well as any proposed adjustments or penalties. Taxpayers or their representatives will have an opportunity to review the draft audit report and provide feedback or comments. The auditor will consider the feedback or comments and issue a final audit report, which will confirm the outcome of the audit and any actions required by taxpayers. Where there is disagreement between the parties, there is a formal dispute resolution process that sets out taxpayer rights to challenge the IRD position. This process is largely legalistic. We recommend that where taxpayers are concerned with a tax position taken or want to correct an error, they explore the route of a voluntary disclosure.

Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any enquiries regarding Inland Revenue reviews. Our tax team at Bellingham Wallace has the expertise and experience to assist you with any tax related matters.

Visit: bellinghamwallace.co.nz

By Natasha Williams, Senior Associate

Schnauer

Understanding changes for incorporated societies

The Incorporated Societies Act 2022 (“new Act”) came into force on 5 October 2023 and replaces the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 (“old Act”). The new Act affects all incorporated societies in New Zealand and makes significant changes in the requirements surrounding governance, general meetings, dispute resolution, financial reporting and auditing. Also, to support the implementation of the new Act, the Incorporated Societies Regulations 2023 were issued on 4 September 2023.

A key requirement of the new statutory framework is for every incorporated society by the 5 April 2026 to reregister under the new Act unless they are in liquidation. If an incorporated society fails to reregister by the deadline, then it will become ineffective, cease to exist and the Registrar becomes the decision maker, not the members. Another important change is that an incorporated society must have a new constitution that complies with the new Act and adopt a dispute resolution process. If any of the constitution contravenes or is inconsistent with the new Act, then the constitution shall have no effect.

Should an incorporated society not reregister the consequence is that it will become an unincorporated society which may mean the loss of the ability to enter into new obligations such as leases, a reduced likelihood of receiving funding, and members exposed to personal liability. If the deadline is missed there is a mechanism for an incorporated society to be restored but this should not be relied on as members would have had since 5 October 2023 when the reregistration process began, to organise themselves. Also, purposefully not reregistering to defeat any creditors’ claim or hide from claims would not be successful as liquidators and creditors may restore an incorporated society.

As the reregistration process may take at least six months, incorporated societies should endeavour to reregister as soon as possible to avoid the consequences of failing to reregister within the prescribed timeframe. So, whether your incorporated society is a musical society, sports club, play group, toy library or cultural group now is the time to act and familiarise yourself with the new Act and hold a general meeting to present options, including whether to reregister or bring the incorporated society to an end or restructure to establish a charitable trust should the constitution allow for this.

As the law relating to incorporated societies has been majorly reformed you should reach out to your lawyer or accountant to seek advice on your rights and obligations under the new Act. If you are unsure of the next steps, the team at Schnauer & Co are happy to help.

Schnauer & Co,

1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177

schnauer.com

The algorithm of life

As a school principal working alongside adolescents, I frequently ponder the pop-culture influences (and influencers!) of the time and the impact these have on the development of our next generation.

Recently, I have been considering that the algorithms of social media and those of life share almost no resemblance. This is somewhat problematic when many of our students are unaware of the level of manipulation they are subject to within their online world and start to expect that life, in reality, will mimic this equation.

Social media algorithms gather data such as past behaviours, likes and dislikes, as well as the popularity of posts, and use a complex set of rules and calculations to prioritise the content that the user will most likely engage with. It’s all very clever, and if you have the fully developed brain and life experience of an adult, you can hopefully use your skills of discernment to see this for what it is: a very sophisticated marketing machine that delivers what I like to refer to as a rainbows and unicorns experience.

My concern is that in real life, there is no algorithm to automatically bring us more of what we like, and we certainly can’t cheat the system to get what we want (usually not ethically or legally, anyway). I have frequently spoken with the Middle School students about ‘squiggly line lives’. These are lives with ups and downs, great successes and the inevitable rejections, times of health and times of potential challenges. We cannot pay our way out of the dips in our trajectory nor create an equation that will do this for us. The only way to successfully navigate the algorithm of life is to build resilience.

The only way to successfully navigate the algorithm of life is to build resilience.

While resilience is a word touted frequently in education at present, what it means to us here at Kristin is helping our students to become ‘response-able’, to build tangible skills so that they can maximise the good times and know how to respond thoughtfully and use the resources at their disposal during times of challenge. This happens both formally through our Friends Resilience programme but also through everyday interactions with teachers and peers. While it is tempting to shelter our children from the bumps in the road, I encourage you instead to help them navigate these and see them as an opportunity to grow and learn, normalising the juxtaposition between the ups and downs.

I, for one, am proud to be a part of this Kristin community, where we prepare our students not for sheltered and protected lives but for the full and diverse futures that await. Our greatest hope is that they emerge from their schooling years with the knowledge that they can achieve greatness while simultaneously and resourcefully encountering life’s inevitable challenges.

at

and Co Lawyers, before being admitted to the bar in 2013 she had been practicing law in England and Wales. With a background in property and estates she developed an interest in Trust law and is passionate about delivering advice and assistance to clients.

The Lake House 1899 - 1920

Following the Government's Mahurangi Purchase of land from Māori, on 1 February 1845 William Smellie Grahame (1813-1894) purchased a government Crown Grant for Allotment 81 in the Parish of Takapuna. That allotment originally stretched from around present-day Earnoch Avenue to The Strand and was bordered to the west by Hurstmere Road and to the east by the Rangitoto Channel. The land area of 24 acres, 3 roods and 21 perches was sold in 1845 for 305 pounds 15 shillings and 11 pence.

After some land conveyances and mortgages occurred on parts of the land in 1864 and 1865, the remainder was sold to William Alexander Hunt (who died in 1900 in Sydney) in 1868. On 14 July 1876, Hunt sold to David Limond Murdoch who transferred the ownership to his wife Eliza Murdoch in July 1885. The land was then split up into six lots, and taking advantage of the expansion of Takapuna at that time as a holiday area they were sold off between 1889 and 1899. Lot Three (of one acre 1 rood and 27 perches) was almost opposite what was at that time Katrine Street (from 1916 renamed Anzac Street) and was sold to John Gordon on 10 July 1896 for 300 pounds. Eliza died in 1901 and David Murdoch in 1911. Until around 1899 Lot Three may have been used for grazing or cropping, but otherwise remained empty of housing.

By David Verran

In February 1913, the building was described as having a total of 24 rooms. Those rooms included a bathroom, scullery, stove room and a wash house. There was also a linen press, hot and cold water was available (likely by a coal or wood-powered boiler) and the wash house had copper tubs. There was also an ironing stove, a workshop, a wood and coal shed, and two bathing sheds with fresh water showers. At that time, the Sheppards were again trying to sell the boarding house, but were unsuccessful.

In November 1904, the Lake House was described as having being built on Lot Three five years before (1899) as a single storey boarding house, of 468 square metres with 23 rooms. On 5 June 1900, the building had been leased to Mary Elizabeth Harvey, but there is a suggestion that it was previously leased to a Mr Wright. John Hughes was an early resident.

On 1 September 1905, Gordon sold Lot Three and the Lake House to Newson and Clara Blofield Sheppard (husband and wife) as tenants in common. Ruth Scanlen (1860-1941) was proprietor of the Lake House from January to July 1906. She was married to Winslow Scanlen (1847-1929).

In September 1906, tenders were called for alterations and additions, with the building closed until early November 1906. These added another 117 square metre storey comprising four extra bedrooms and a staircase, to total 585 square metres. The building now provided 17 bedrooms. In February 1908, the Sheppards offered the building for sale, but this didn't eventuate. In 1909, following the fire which destroyed the nearby Lake Hotel, a one-inch water main was installed.

The new tramway had opened in 1910, developing Takapuna as a residential suburb of Auckland. In November 1917, 'furnished apartments' at the Lake House were now being offered but at that time there were no changes requiring a building permit from the Takapuna Borough Council (formed 1 July 1913). In March 1919, after the building had been used as a hospital for the November 1918 influenza epidemic, Lake House was described as having 24 rooms and offices. It was now being offered for subdivision or conversion to flats.

Newson died on 27 August 1919 (he was born in 1856) and on 6 September 1920 his widow, Clara, sold to three women as tenants in common: Hannah Gertrude Winstone (1881-1961, wife of George Winstone), Violet Matilda Winstone (1879-1948, wife of Percy Winstone) and Clarice Julia Arthur (1883-1961, wife of Thomas Buddle Arthur). George Winstone (1848-1932) was at that time chairman of W. and G. Winstone, who were contractors, shippers, cement manufacturers and miners. Percy Winstone (1880-1948) was a son of George and also worked for that company. Clara Newson died in 1937.

david.verran@xtra.co.nz

T8148, courtesy Auckland Council Libraries Heritage Collections. The Lake House dated 1906

By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager

New Zealand Claims Resolution Service here to help

In early March I was invited to attend the North Shore Stickered Group session in Albany. I was very interested to hear a presentation from the New Zealand Claims Resolution Service.

They offer a wonderful service that I know a lot of people could make use of after the flooding. Need independent help resolving your natural disaster insurance claim? Dealing with residential insurance claims after a natural disaster can be complex and confusing. The New Zealand Claims Resolution Service (NZCRS) supports homeowners with residential insurance claims after natural disasters to avoid disputes and resolve issues. Services provided through NZCRS cover: advice, case management, legal advice, engineering services, wellbeing support, and mediation. Contact them for free, independent advice: Ph: 0508 624 327 nzcrs.govt.nz

Services provided through NZCRS cover: advice, case management, legal advice, engineering services, wellbeing support, and mediation.

Come walking with us:

Join us on Wednesday mornings for a weekly walk (approx.one hour). Enjoy the company of others and a cup of tea or coffee afterwards. Meet at 9am for a 9.15am departure in the foyer of the Sunnynook Community Centre.

Sunnynook Community

Centre book library:

Located next to our food pantry. Help yourself to a book or two. Book donations welcome.

Don’t forget you can hire the Kennedy Park Observation Post, Beach Road, Castor Bay for children’s birthday parties, baby showers, family lunches etc.

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability

Wow, what a month March has been!

As the sunny days were overtaken by clouds and rain, I.Lead was hard at work with our busiest month yet. We are excited to have expanded our I.Drive programme into the south Auckland region, due to high demand.

This allows I.Drive the opportunity to reach more young disabled people in need of our services. Depending on interest and if there is enough demand, we will also be able to run I.Drive workshops in West Auckland.

We were thrilled to host our 2024 I.Lead Conference on 26 and 27 March. More than 40 young disabled people were invited to Wellington to attend the event. The conference gave these young disabled people a safe space to be able to speak their minds regarding topics and policies relevant to them. Our ‘hot topics’ for the conference were education, employment, health, transportation, mentalhealth, sport and recreation,housing, and emergency/ crisis management.

Throughout the two-day conference, we hosted four keynote speakers, who were Cam Calkoen, Paula Tesoriero, Minister Penny Simmonds, and Loren Savage.

On the afternoon of the second day, the participants in the conference had the opportunity to present their thoughts regarding the topics to a group of guests, including ministers.

The conference gave these young disabled people a safe space to be able to speak their minds regarding topics and policies relevant to them.

This was such an exciting event to host, and we can’t wait to do it all again in 2026.

I.Lead is continuing its programme I.Connect, which is a weekly event hosted on Facebook through our messenger group. We chat about weekly topics that are current and relevant to the young people we support. If you are interested in connecting with new people and being part of a casual discussion about what is happening in New Zealand, you can join I.Connect through Facebook page I.Connect and be invited to the messenger call.

yesdisability.org.nz, ilead.org.nz Facebook- facebook.com/ileadconferencenz Instagram- instagram.com/i.leadnz/

sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.

First Birthday Party at Kennedy Park

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction

Shore Junction turns three:

Celebrating three years of empowering youth!

In March, Shore Junction was thrilled to celebrate a momentous milestone – our third birthday! Since opening our doors in 2021, we've striven to provide a safe and supportive space for young people in our community.

Looking back, we're incredibly proud of the impact we've made. We can point to over 3,500 young people who have walked through our doors, participating in a diverse range of programmes. These programmes, from song writing to entrepreneurial skills, have fostered the development of leadership skills and self-confidence and the acquisition of new skills and hobbies in countless young individuals.

Beyond these programmes, the centre itself has become a safe space for young people and we have seen over 24,000 visits to our amazing space during this time. It's a place where young people can build friendships, receive support, and explore their interests in a positive and encouraging environment.

This success wouldn't be possible without the dedication of our incredible team, community partners, supporters and donors. Their enthusiasm and belief in the work we do has played a vital role in creating a space where young people feel valued and heard.

Of course, the journey continues! As we celebrate three years, we're also looking forward to the future. We're committed to expanding our programmes and services to reach even more young people in the community and with the amazing support from the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, granting us the lease to the adjoining bowling green, we have such an opportunity to expand our offerings.

The third birthday celebration was a chance for us to come together, reflect on our achievements, and look forward to the exciting possibilities ahead. Here's to many more years of empowering the youth of Shore Junction!

To learn more about these sessions please email info@shorejunction.nz

ANCAD:

By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead

Free drop-in sessions for NFP groups in the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board area

Also, free - how to get ready for the Incorporated Societies Act

Free drop-in session for Hibiscus and Bays NFP community groups and organisations: April 9, 10am to 12pm. Come and have your questions answered about anything to do with funding matters, or finances and accounting matters, or governance and management matters. To schedule a time for yourself or others on your team, contact Simon on simon@ancad.org.nz.

LiiFT Aotearoa professional development

There are some practical and helpful professional development and training sessions for NFP and community groups, in April and continuing throughout the year.

• April 10, 10am–11.30am, on Zoom: Let’s do a meetings makeover (part of the bi-monthly Resourcing Leaders in Times of Change series). Subsidised cost $25. Presenter Aly McNicoll.

• April 16, 6.45pm–7.30pm, on Zoom: How to get ready for the Incorporated Societies Act. Free. Presenter: Carol Scholes.

• April 30, on Zoom: Once you’ve got the grant; then what? Presenter: Stephanie Maitland.

To find out more about each of these sessions and to register, head to ANCAD’s dedicated training website found at LiiFT.nz

Come and have your questions answered about anything to do with funding matters, or finances and accounting matters, or governance and management matters.

2024 Funding Guide

ANCAD has produced this latest edition of the Funding Guide with lots of useful and helpful information for NFP groups and those seeking funding. Available as hard cover $45 or PDF version $25 from the ANCAD website (shop page) ancad.org.nz/shop/

Community accounting services

ANCAD's Community Accounting programme is a free and confidential service which offers support and assistance on accounting matters to community organisations within Aotearoa. If your organisation would like to make use of these free services, contact us on email eva@ancad.org.nz for more information.

For more about what ANCAD is doing and how we can help, visit ancad.org.nz facebook @ancad.org.nz instagram ancadinc LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz 0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz

By Richard Thorne, Devonport Business Improvement District Manager

Devonport – Come Climb Our Mountain

It almost beggars belief that just a month ago any thoughts about exercising outdoors were based around avoiding the sun’s heat, and inevitably led to the question of which Devonport peninsula beach to visit for a cooling dip.

With April’s arrival the appeal of ocean swimming has considerably diminished, and getting out and about on foot or cycle is a sun-wise option any time of the day. While the beaches continue to offer plenty of great options for dog walking, quick dipping and sociable strolls, the autumn and spring seasons are ideal for climbing Devonport’s number one tourist attraction Takarunga/Mt Victoria.

From Kerr St, just above Devonport’s shopping strip, to the top of the highest volcano on the North Shore has to be one of the most rewarding 20-minute walks you can take anywhere in Tāmaki Makaurau. The well maintained track which winds clockwise around to the northern side before cresting near the famed toadstool tableau, includes just over 100 easily managed steps, no hiking boots or even sports shoes needed.

Younite projects, well underway

By Laura Mackenzie, Executive Board Member of Younite 2024

Kia ora North Shore!

My name is Laura Mackenzie (she/her), and I am incredibly honored to be Younite’s journalist for this year. I am a Year 11 student at Westlake Girls High School, and have lived in the Devonport-Takapuna area since 2014. My passion for community service and youth empowerment prompted me to join Younite’s board in August 2023. I feel immensely grateful to be part of such a wonderful team. This is going to be a very exciting year, so read below to find out about Younite’s plans for 2024!

With the year well underway, Younite is beginning to plan events for the coming months to promote youth voices in our community. A few of the upcoming events we hope to host soon include Open Mic Night, Youth Art Exhibition, and more.

Moreover, we will be working closely to include aspects of the Auckland Council Long Term Plan into our projects, especially those which relate to the environment and young people. Having a say in the decisions which will affect our wider community is vital to creating a well-rounded society, so we hope to encourage more youth voices to speak up and be heard. All citizens, regardless of race, gender or age, have been given the opportunity for their opinions to be considered, and we wish for all ideas to be respected. Younite is excited to support Council’s objectives to create a positive impact on the leaders of tomorrow.

International visitors certainly know about the maunga; on a recent visit a busload of tourists passed animatedly chattering on their way down, while a video crew of three was filming around the summit. Among the locals enjoying Takarunga some were exercising their dogs, others actively exercising themselves. A delicately beautiful white-faced heron was using the path to scout for worms along the grassy edge, with other more native birds playing noisily among the trees.

Needless to say the 360-degree views from the summit are exceptional, no matter what the time of day, or what the Auckland weather is doing. The red and white painted toadstool vents make it almost fantastical, a place of delight for young families.

If you have just an hour to spare then you get half of that time to enjoy the views because the trip back down via the roadway is just a 10-minute stretch. Reward yourself with a hot coffee, ice cream or flavour-filled gelato from one of Devonport’s cafes before jumping back onto the ferry or into your car. It will be an hour happily remembered.

Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz

… we will be working closely to include aspects of the Auckland Council Long Term Plan into our projects, especially those which relate to the environment and young people.

Additionally, we will soon have our very own website! It is being created by the Web Development Consulting Club (WDCC) from Auckland University. The WDCC is a programming club which creates websites free of charge for non-profit organisations. Younite’s website will include: details for upcoming events, information about the board, meet the team, mental health support sources, our goals/values, and more. While the website won’t be fully completed before the end of the year, a subpage on the Shore Junction site is being created for use in the meantime.

If you would like to make any suggestions or have any queries, please feel free to contact us at younitechair@gmail.com or have a look at our Instagram page: younitedt

Simon Gundry is a Devonport and North Shore identity, and character, who is known for calling a spade a spade. He is a director of contracting company Gill & Gundry, is an enthusiastic sailor (past crew-member of Ceramco New Zealand, Lion New Zealand and Shockwave) and is a life member of the North Shore Rugby Football Club. Simon was awarded a QSM for services to the community in 2013. More recently, he was inducted into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame. He has been writing this thought-provoking column for Channel from the very first issue (over a dozen years ago!).

A letter by a friend, plus a few questions and grumbles

Here’s a letter written last year by a good friend of mine, with regards to weather events last year which he sent to his local Member of Parliament.

“Dear Sir

For the fourth time this year a weather event has made landfall in New Zealand without sufficient warning.

I have also become aware that NIWA have intentionally or unintentionally lost or hidden records of historic severe weather events. This was recently uncovered by Ian Wishart in his book “Climate of Fear”. The suspicion is that this record manipulation has allowed NIWA to spread fear that these events are unprecedented. The potentially life harming effect is that governments and councils have based their decision making around housing based on faulty information.

It is possible NIWA especially, and possibly Met Service are becoming politicized and are weaponising data in the name of an impending climate crisis.

So, I have done a quick research of who works at NIWA and Met Service and to my horror found they have a combined staff of over 900 people.

By comparison, a similar size country like Sweden, do not have a met service at all, instead buy their weather forecasting off Norway.

Closer to home Team New Zealand, which I have been a member of, contracted a meteorological expert based in NSW to do all their forecasting at a much more accurate and more frequent rate.

This is all possible because all forecasters acquire their information from three computer models based in the Northern Hemisphere.

Now I am sure NIWA will have some accounts showing they invoice out their time to outside entities. I am equally sure that most of these entities will be other government tax funded agencies. I am also sure that NIWA and Met Service could be combined into one entity with a staff of 9 and we would not know the difference.

Now some may say what happens to the 891 staff that would be displaced. Well from my view many of these are foreign nationals who have found their way to NIWA and Met Service because we have one of the most bloated and underworked agencies in the World.

I would like National, who I support, to announce a convergence of Met Service and NIWA if they were to become Government in October with efficiencies and savings that everyone would understand.

I have not researched this to a political level so I suggest reaching out to people like Ian Wishart for a better understanding.”

It would be really interesting to know the combined salaries of the NIWA and Met Service staff. The CEO of NIWA is paid $715,000 per annum and there is a team of eight executive members that receive a combined salary of $2.7m. It is my estimate that the combined NIWA and Met Service team are being paid in excess of between $90,000,000 - $100,000,000. Somebody can correct me if I’m wrong. Surely there’s some savings to be made there.

While we are talking about NIWA and Met Service, I’d like to

… why are we using around 130,000 disposable coffee cups per day? These single use disposable coffee cups work out to add up to around 47 million cups per year. That’s a lot of landfill. Answer me that question, if you can.

know why we have over 300 people down at Scott Base in the Antarctica. Why do we need so many people down there and what are they doing? Just one man’s question.

I understood one of the new Government’s plans was to get rid of some of the unnecessary speed restrictions on our roads, including the 30km limit around the suburbs. I’d like to know when this is going to happen.

I have it on very good authority from one of my men at the coal face that somebody has requested from Auckland Transport under the LGOIA (Local Government Official Information Act) information on the cost of the crossing outside St Leo’s School. So far, he has been told AT still don’t have all the invoices in from the contractors, but the budgeted figure for that crossing was $539,000. I have told by my impeccable sources that there is still believe it or not, an ongoing rental for the 20 waratahs and the high viz safety netting that is protecting people from walking on the newly sown grass seed. This weekly rental is over $300 per week.

And here’s one for you in our green clean country, why are we using around 130,000 disposable coffee cups per day? These single use disposable coffee cups work out to add up to around 47 million cups per year. That’s a lot of landfill. Answer me that question, if you can.

I thought it was pretty close to home with the reports of the container ship hitting the key bridge in Baltimore last month. I’ve talked about this before, how vulnerable our city would be if any damage occurred to our Harbour Bridge. As I said also, it’s well past time that we had a second crossing in place.

I hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing and peaceful Easter break.

Artificial bowling arms in the spotlight

Thanks to the many successes this season of some of its exponents, Browns Bay’s Lindsay Gilmore being a prime example, much of the spotlight in Bowls North Harbour this season has been on the use of artificial bowling arms.

Deciding to use one because of his worsening arthritis, Lindsay believes it has revitalised a bowling career which started in 1972 at Auckland’s Carlton club. So far this season Lindsay has won the Browns Bay club’s championship singles, beating former Nambian international Jean Viljoen, who in the semi-finals had ousted the club and Harbour legend, Colin Rogan.

Lindsay also won the Brent Turner Memorial tournament at Browns Bay early in the New Year with another club-mate Brian Wilson and Riverhead’s Steve Cox; as well as three hams in extended tournaments before Christmas.

Adding to the rarity of his deeds with the arm is the fact that after many years bowling with his left arm despite being a right hander he has reverted to bowling with his natural arm. That has enabled him to add to his talent as a draw bowler an ability to play upshots and weighted shots which he found too difficult bowling left-handed.

The reason he switched to his left hand early on his bowls career is also a diverting one, for he came to lawn bowls from an unusual background. As a youth he spent much of his time 10-pin bowling, even managing a 10-pin alley in Glen Innes, and playing for New Zealand.

Because of his 10-pin bowling, with a very wide backswing. Lindsay struggled to adjust to the slower, more deliberate pace used in lawn bowls, even though as a first-year player at the then powerful Carlton club he won the first-year singles.

Bowling left-handed, Lindsay compiled a grand record at Carlton, playing with some of the game’s illustrious names, like Ivan Kostanich and the Marsic brothers, Ivan and Wally. He even won an Auckland junior pairs title and the open champion of champion triples.

The game back in the 1970s, he recalls, was slightly different from today. Dress codes were strictly enforced and on the weekends there were invariably four full rinks being used and some players being balloted out for roll-ups.

Lindsay moved to Harbour nine years ago and has played at both Browns Bay and Riverhead, having won four centre titles all with his left hand. With his new bowling arm and despite being 73 he is now optimistic of gaining an elusive fifth title to give him a coveted gold star.

LIndsay Gilmore hasn’t been the only bowler to be successful with the bowling arm. His severely disabled Browns Bay clubmate Lloyd Sinton has become a centre folk hero, and a former team-mate Grant Keats has been ultra consistent in Takapuna championships.

But use of the artificial arms hasn’t been accepted by all the game’s purists. It has been argued that it can provide unfair advantages. Users of the arm don’t have to lower their bodies as those bowling naturally have to do. And once a line is found a bowling arm can be gun-barrel straight and prone to less error.

The counter-argument, though, is that it enables those with disabilities, injuries or just arthritis to continue playing, even at a high level as the likes of LIndsay Gilmore and Grant Keats are doing. And, of course, bowling arms are welcomed by green-keepers as protection against those bowlers, who, unwittingly in many cases, dump their bowls on what are fragile surfaces.

bowlsnorthharbour.com

Lindsay Gilmore at the Browns Bay Bowling Club with his artificial bowling arm he uses to compete. The use of the arms enable those with disabilities, injuries or arthritis to continue playing.

POWERED BY SOLAR

Benefitz is committed to being a leader in sustainability

We’ve been part of the North Shore community for a long time. 2023 is our 35th year of business. When it comes to producing items to help people communicate we reckon we have a pretty good formula. A strong track-record, a dedicated team, a constant focus on the latest technology, a range of solutions, we give back, and to top it all off we’re powered by solar.

For more information contact Aidan Bennett, email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz or visit www.benefitz.co.nz

Proud to publish Channel Magazine for the North Shore

Robert signs off after three decades with Benefitz

WELL KNOWN DEVONPORT RESIDENT ROBERT JOHNSON RETIRED FROM BENEFITZ AT THE END OF MARCH AFTER THREE DECADES WORKING WITH THE NORTH SHORE BASED BUSINESS, PUBLISHERS OF CHANNEL MAG. FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS HE WAS A SHAREHOLDER AND DIRECTOR OF THE BUSINESS.

Robert first started his career in the printing industry as an apprentice Letterpress operator with York Pelorus Limited. He qualified as a printer, but his warm personality meant he was always much more suited to sales and account management.

Robert spent a few years overseas on his OE in the UK before relocating to Sydney in Australia and establishing a reputation in the music industry with Polygram Music. He spent eight enjoyable years traveling throughout Australia in his role with Polygram Music.

“It was a crazy and fantastic time for a young person,” said Robert, reflecting on his time across the Tasman. “I survived, with highlights including working on tours for Elton John, John Mellencamp as well as many others.”

Returning to New Zealand, Robert went back into printing, working in sales for his brother-in-law’s North Shore business, Promotional Print.

Around that time Robert met his future wife Lesleigh and also first came into contact with Benefitz founder Aidan Bennett.

“It was a great time in my life and proved to be the making of me really,” explains Robert. “Lesleigh was always a lot of fun and gave my life structure when it was needed. We have never really looked back. We are hugely proud of what we have achieved together, especially raising our two daughters Sammy (30) and Madison (27). They are much cleverer than their dad, that’s for sure! They take after their mum.”

The Shore has been home for Robert and Lesleigh Johnson since they married. First living in Birkenhead,

then moving to the Devonport peninsula in the mid-90s.

“I used to call on Aidan as a print rep for Promo Print and we got on well. A year or two after he started Benefitz I also started my own business and was able to share space with the Benefitz crew. I think there was only Aidan, then Dallas (his brother) and one or two others back then.”

“Together we ended up buying another offset print business in the mid-90s that became one of the key ingredients of the Benefitz business today. In mid 2000s we ended up consolidating the business, purchasing our premises on Constellation Drive, and adding a wide range of print and signage capability. This business has grown and grown ever since.”

“I am really proud that we have remained a family business, it is neat that virtually all of our family members have worked in the business at some stage.”

So, what is Robert Johnson going to do in retirement?

“Aidan has asked me to be a ‘Benefitz Ambassador’ which means I get to turn up for events! (he chuckles). I will certainly be staying in contact and will help out where I can. They call it old muscle! Lesleigh and I love living in Devonport and are lucky to have a wide circle of friends in the area. Many are also slowing down. So, we will be busy. Golf at Waitematā (for both of us) will feature largely in our plans, as will be getting away to our bach at Whangamatā more often. Maybe a bit of fishing. Sammy lives in Feilding so we will visit more frequently.”

Farewell Robert from the Benefitz team. You will be missed!

Aidan has asked me to be a ‘Benefitz Ambassador’ which means I get to turn up for events! (he chuckles). I will certainly be staying in contact and will help out where I can. They call it old muscle!...

Robert and Lesleigh Johnson

Benefitz at NZ Open

Producing all the signage required for the 2024 NZ Open held at Millbrook in Central Otago was a new project for Benefitz in January and February this year.

All the signage for the event was produced using solar power in our North Shore factory and shipped to Queenstown for installation.

We produced tee signage, green and fairway signage, printed fence mesh, directional signage, and decals for a range of requirements including 100 vehicles, large fabric prints for the hospitality, large banners for the exterior of marquees, also for around the TV camera towers and for cladding temporary grandstands and other structures. We also produced cylinders to brand the moving ropes around the course. We produced and supplied fabric media and sponsors' backdrops. There was also

a range of printing required, such as scorecards, menus etc.

Three interesting structures that we created which really made an impact at the event, were the life-sized 3D ‘103’ displays (it was the 103rd NZ open), two huge fabric archways to create branded entry areas and a temporary archway for sponsor Manuka Doctor, using an existing footbridge to clad onto.

Members of the Benefitz signage installation team were on hand at Millbrook in late February to assist with installation and application prior to the event. We loved being a part of such a great event!

BACKDROPS EVENT & MEDIA

AT BENEFITZ WE HAVE THE COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR ALL YOUR EXHIBITION AND EVENT DISPLAY REQUIREMENTS.

We import or manufacture the hardware and then print and finish the easy-to-assemble and transport displays.

A key ingredient for most events is having a Backdrop that can be used to provide high impact branding for Event Sponsors. As stage backdrops, photographic backdrops or a prominent wall for sponsor acknowledgements.

We have units that can be rented for events, or purchased for ongoing use.

Due to our wide range of large and grand format printing capability we can provide many different options. These include rigid panel backdrops and fabric backdrops. Sizes are around 2.3 to 2.4 metres in height by similar widths, but these stands can be supplied at virtually any width required. For more details visit our website or contact us to talk to a Benefitz Account Manager.

2.4 X 2.4 RIGID EVENT & MEDIA WALLS

We have 2.4 x 2.4 metre transportable backdrop structures available to rent or purchase. These Walls can be totally branded by Benefitz printing two 2.4 x 1.2 metre rigid sheets that are adhered to the stands with Velcro or double-sided tape. The stand is only available to rent with panels produced by Benefitz. We can deliver and pick up the rented structures in the Auckland region.

FABRIC MEDIA & EVENT WALLS

We import a range of aluminium structures to create Fabric Media & Event Walls. These are lightweight, easy to assemble and pack down into very transportable bags. Standard height of these stands is 2.35 metres and they can be made to virtually any width – from 2 metres wide to 6 metres wide.

BACKLIT OR CURVED MEDIA & EVENT WALLS

We can also supply backlit Fabric or Curved Media & Event Walls at similar sizes.

Benefitz at Homegrown

Benefitz big printing capability was on show once again at Jim Beam Homegrown held on the waterfront in Wellington in March. It is an event we have been assisting annually for many years.

This is a massive music festival that requires big images for a range of purposes. It consists of five stages along the Wellington waterfront from Waitangi Park to Frank Kitts Reserve.

915 metres of printed fence scrim was required for the fencing to create the ticketed venue. We also produced large decals on the gables of all the stage tents. In addition, we printed rigid directional signage, bar menus and instructions for all the entrances. Large printed mesh banners were printed for wrapping all VIP structures. Printed mesh banners also covered all large speakers on the sides of the stages. Printed mesh banners also covered all the scaffold structures with these

being over 17 metres x 4.4 metres.

All the printed mesh was finished with reinforced double-stitched edges with lots of eyelets to withstand the Wellington weather. Sure enough, there was a storm on the Friday just prior to the event and everything stayed in one piece.

A big project, but one we love doing. Being able to print up to 5 metres wide and virtually any length makes things easier as well.

BIG PRINTING POWER

PRINTING NZS BIGGEST IMAGES TO 5 METRES WIDE!

For over two decades Benefitz has been one of the very few in the New Zealand market to be able to print 5 metres wide. This is set to continue well into the future with the recent installation of the brand new Fujifilm Acuity Ultra R2 UV Printer – 5 metres wide!

BRAND NEW!

ACUITY ULTRA R2 5 METRES WIDE UV PRINTER

Brand New 2024 powerful roll-to-roll inkjet superwide format printer.

THE BENEFITS…

• Prints up to 5 metres wide and just about any length.

• LED UV inks with 3.5 picolitre drop size, superb quality!

• Prints big Billboard skins and PVC Mesh banners in no time.

• Also prints on Fabrics, Backlit and a wide range of substrates.

• High resolution for both Outdoor and Indoor prints.

• Powered by Solar.

For more information visit: www.benefitz.co.nz

The new Benefitz Acuity R2 is a highly automated machine.

Benefitz team members Blake Douglas, Stuart Fausett, Dallas Bennett and Gerrard Zohs with the new machine.

The Channel Crossword

“Not 10 across” by Māyā of Aotearoa (mayaofauckland.substack.com) No. 96

Across

8 Note those who quote those who stir the emotions (8)

9 Fictional repository of unsolved cases uses emery board (1-5)

10 Man, artist, provides penetrating photograph (1-3)

11 Anaphrodisia as parity, that's without question (10)

12 Piltdown man, Hitler's Diaries and the Cottingley Fairies found in a shoe box (6)

14 No longer living in a tent? Remarkable! (8)

15 Polish master control programme for tic-tac-toe (7)

17 Nice of digits to be treats for alcohol or drug dependence (7)

20 Rap - yeah, right - MP's supposed employer (8)

22 Actress Liz not right for writer of dystopia (6)

23 Topless escort returned in film to get cocktail shaker (10)

24 High point of mirror (4)

25 Couple swap ends, having no dinner jacket (6)

26 Is option oddly fashionable - a substance that poisons your own species? (8)

Solution to last month's crossword

Down

1 Our daft Bill's fond of his wife (8)

2 Constant - variable - playful sprite! (4)

3 Leaves bridge partners for the Ewings, for example (6)

4 Flower I placed by comic book hero (7)

5 Pardon disheartened Eric demanding to be employed (6,2)

6 Love letter to bullied comic (6,4)

7 Church official rejected tune (6)

13 One backing (with a measure of acid) medals given to those who are meritorious racists (10)

16 No little marsupial accepts my raising figure of speech? (8)

18 Interpretation of record of brainwaves by lead characters in "Every Sperm is Sacred" (8)

19 Handyman's firm construction object (2,5)

21 Farewells the German in Australia (6)

22 That boy holds container with lid (6)

24 Article about nerve fibre (4)

This month's crossword will also be uploaded to the creator’s blog at: channelcrossword.wordpress.com There, Mãyã will kindly attempt to answer any questions or comments that may arise from the crosswords each month.

Note to solver - A certain letter appears in every answer. This is ignored in the wordplay, so if the letter is 'R', "SPRAY" could be clued "Chatters about atomiser".

Tent tickles...

Musings from an old camping pro... with teenagers in tow

By James Carrick

School holidays - loved by children across the country. What’s not to love? Thinking about this question, I firmly believe that children like the idea of a break from school. Young children that is. The older the child, the harder it is for them to enjoy this enforced break. They’re studying like fury and catching up with coursework. Between bouts of furious industry, there are bouts of less furious sleep and the ever-present screen. They sit and watch streamed footage of people they don’t know having a great time.

This is the routine. Every term. Every holiday. Unless of course, there is parental intervention in the form of a trip away.

My kids would love me to hear me say, “OK kids, pack your bags, we’re going to Europe!” Come to think of it, that would be good, but all the while we still have to feed them, they’ll have to put up with good oldfashioned Kiwi camping!

I love camping, as does my partner. We have a camper van named Basil, that has all the home comforts we could ask for, apart from a toilet, a comfortable bed, a shower, and room to move around. Along with our trusty, rusty steed, we have more camping gear than we can shake a tent peg at. There’s the obligatory housing estate tent that could sleep a family of refugees, and every other kind of tent down to the humble bivouac. There are things to keep you cool, things to keep you hot, and gas-driven gadgets to keep you guessing.

We pack everything in with the solid intention of leaving around seven the next morning. After a lazy brunch and loose discussions about who’s feeding the cat, we round up the kids. They pack and we leave around one. I make sure we’re a good hour into the journey, with spirits high and music

pumping, before quietly announcing that the place we’re going to has no internet.

After that lead balloon crashes to the floor, it’s a pretty quiet journey. I discover that the car games of old no longer entertain. Comments like, 'I spy with my little eye something beginning with sulky teenager,' garner no giggles. To get back in their good books requires snacks. But I don’t like stopping.

Once at the campground, so begins the construction of our temporary accommodation. Tents are unpacked, and the thaw begins. It’s a slow process. The first few minutes start with screen withdrawals. Desperate pacing, one hand in the air, begging for just one bar of reception. This subsides with a request for music. They want their music, though, not my 80s and 90s nonsense, or so I think. The sound of early hip-hop drifts across the site and a sense of camaraderie ensues. They begin to work together and even start to have fun. This is good. They’re connecting. They’re communicating! I feel a sense of something very close to pride.

And so it continues. Even a break of a few days sees a reset. Books are read, chess and backgammon are played, along with endless rounds of cards and silly scrabble - our very own family version of this staple family game that actually makes it enjoyable for all. We go for long walks, and we talk. And it’s real conversation too; they start to use words and sentences, all joined together. I’m conscious of making it sound super wholesome, but it’s by no means perfect. There are still arguments about who's washing up, and who’s turn is it to cook, but these are short-lived.

Before we know it, the trip is over. The tent is taken down and the site is cleared. We begin our journey home and as soon as we start to get coverage, the dings, pings and not-so-silent vibrations make their way into the car and the moment is lost.

The things I wish I knew? I wish I knew how to bottle the feeling the kids have when they reconnect as a family, engaged and enthused. I wish I knew why I only instigate this kind of event a couple of times a year. Family time is precious and there’s never enough of it. I wish I had more. Happy camping, hi dee hi and hi dee ho, val dah ree, val de r'AGHHHH! and all that good stuff! Enjoy your school holidays, folks!

Charlie, Harry and Billy Brown, James Carrick

Harry, Billy and Charlie Brown, James Carrick, Liz Cannon, Ellie Brown

James Carrick, Liz Cannon

Charlie and Harry Brown, Liz Cannon, James Carrick

REINZ data shows increased activity in housing market

Welcome to our April 2024 issue of the Property Channel. The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) released its February 2024 data in mid-March showing a significant increase in listings and an expansion in stock levels, providing options for buyers.

REINZ Chief Executive Jen Baird says with the combination of high listing numbers, elevated stock and shifts in the median sale price we are seeing increased activity.

“There was a substantial rise in listings nationally, indicating heightened activity in the housing market. New Zealand's stock levels saw a year-on-year increase, resulting in a growing inventory of available properties for sale. Coupled with median sale price growth in some regions, agents are seeing more investors and first-home buyers out there at open homes."

The national median sale price has increased by 3.1% from $766,000 to $790,000 year-on-year. There was also an increase of +3.9% from January 2024 $760,000 to $790,000. New Zealand, excluding Auckland, also increased month-on-month, +3.6% from $685,000 to $710,000 and up year-on-year by 2.6% from $692,000 to $710,000.

Auckland's median sale price has bumped back up over the $1 million mark to $1,026,000 in line with the last few years where the month of February also sat over $1 million.

North Shore’s median house sale price for February 2024 was $1,295,000, that was up from January 2024 ($1,167,000) and also ahead of February 2023 ($1,230,000). 275 homes were sold on the Shore in February 2024, up from 134 homes in January 2024 and 164 homes in February 2023. The 2023 figures were affected by the problematic weather events in January and February.

Listings increased by 60.4% from 7,347 to 11,788 nationally month on month and by 44.8% from 8,143 to 11,788 year on year.

The median days to sell increased by 1 day month-on-month from 50 up to 51 days and reduced nine days year-on-year, down from 60 to 51. The current median days to sell in Auckland is 50.

Overall, the data paints a picture of a more active housing market in New Zealand, characterised by increasing listings, robust sales activity, expanding stock levels, and growth in property prices.

“We are looking at the back of the

government’s 100-day plan, and the changes to the bright line test back to two years, and the latest reintroduction of interest deductibility on investment properties for landlords. With a significant increase in property listings, the rise in the total number of properties sold, and an increase in the median sale price, some buyers are holding out for the ‘right’ property while others are getting ‘into the market’ before competition rises as investors return. This buoyancy is a positive sign that we haven’t seen for a while,” added Jen Baird.

The house price index (HPI) for New Zealand, stood at 3,700 in February 2024, a 1.1% increase compared to the previous month and a 3.2% increase for the same period last year. The average annual growth in the New Zealand HPI over the past five years has been 5.9% per annum, and it is currently 13.5% below the peak of the market reached in 2021.

Long Bay - where you belong

Long Bay is a place to treasure and protect. A place to call home. It’s where you belong. The homes here express the character of the environment as shaped by the vision of the developers, the imaginative insights of architects, and the care and skill of the builders.

Coastal Long Bay abounds in natural beauty and recreational opportunities. A perfect place for superior homes where families flourish. Dwellings are planned with forethought and care and well-served with good amenities. Preservation, security and sustainability are prioritised. It’s a place you’ll love calling home. A place where you belong.

Long Bay boasts one of Auckland’s best loved beaches and its most popular regional park. Those lucky enough to live there will enjoy the very best that Auckland has to offer.

A kilometre-long stretch of smooth-packed white sand forms a safe beach that’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, diving, kayaking and boating in pristine waters. The shoreline offers panoramic views across the Hauraki Gulf. Long Bay Regional Park, an expansive, grassed area shaded by groves of majestic pohutukawa, is a popular spot for family recreation, outdoor barbecues and relaxing in the sun. This is Auckland at its finest.

The planning, the roads, the dwellings, the retail precinct, the atmosphere, all speak of a commitment to shelter, safety and sustainability. Long Bay is a place that cares for, nurtures and protects families and all that you hold dear.

Above the park is Long Bay Village, an excellent shopping plaza surrounded by cafés and specialty stores. Have a drink in one of Auckland’s finest coastal bars or sit down to a meal at one of the village’s many restaurants. There’s an excellent supermarket, gym, medical centre, pharmacy, dentist, beauty therapists and other speciality stores.

All this is right on your doorstep. It’s a place your children will love as they walk or cycle to the excellent primary and secondary schools nearby, play in the parks or beside the streams, watch the birdlife, explore the reserve surroundings or stroll down to the beach after school.

It’s an environment designed for family enjoyment and protection, sustainability and convenience. The residential streets, with wide footpaths, cycle ways and indented parking bays, form a network of shared public spaces liberally planted with broad dividers. Street planting blends seamlessly into the front yards, making it seem that the roads belong to the homes themselves.

It’s a place where you belong. A place for your family. A place to call home. To search for this treasure all you need to know is that home is 8P8R+58. Visit once, you’ll fall in love. Visit twice, you’ll never want to leave. Because home is where you belong.

Templeton Group has the full range of residential solutions in Long Bay, with pricing starting at $595k for sections and $694k for apartments. Visit longbay.co.nz for all the details

Angela

Rory

angela@prestigerealestate.co.nz

Angela

angela@prestigerealestate

Milford

Mairangi

Rothesa

Milford

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

Downsizing considerations

Downsizing the family home can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and consideration, it can also be a liberating and rewarding experience. Here are some key factors to consider when embarking on this journey.

First, assess your current needs and lifestyle. How much space do you actually use on a daily basis? Can you identify any areas that are rarely utilised? Consider your future and whether your new home needs to accommodate any potential changes, such as ageing or accommodating frequent visitors.

Next, declutter ruthlessly. Downsizing is the perfect opportunity to streamline your belongings and purge items you no longer need or love. Be mindful of sentimental items, but also be realistic about what you can take with you to your new, smaller space.

When searching for a new home, prioritise location and amenities that align with your lifestyle goals. Consider factors such as proximity to family and friends, access to healthcare facilities, recreational activities, and public transport. Additionally, think about the maintenance requirements of the property.

When searching for a new home, prioritise location and amenities that align with your lifestyle goals.

Financial considerations are also crucial when downsizing. Calculate your budget carefully, factoring in not only the purchase price of your new home but also ongoing expenses such as rates, body corp fees, utilities, and maintenance costs. Keep in mind that downsizing can also free up equity in your current home, providing additional funds for retirement or other financial goals.

Finally, enlist the help of professionals to guide you through the downsizing process. A real estate agent experienced in working with downsizers can help you find the perfect home. Consider hiring a professional organiser for decluttering and organising your belongings.

In conclusion, downsizing the family home requires careful planning and consideration. By assessing your needs, decluttering mindfully, choosing the right home, managing your finances wisely, and seeking professional assistance, you can successfully downsize and embrace the next chapter of your life.

Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is a straight talker who enjoys an open communication style and ethical business model. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Masters degree in business and administration and speaks English and Chinese fluently.

Yan

021 585 590

yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz

Licensed under the REA Act 2008

Louise Benson, Head of Property Management Barfoot and Thompson Milford

How to find a good tenant

Finding a good tenant is crucial for landlords who want to maintain their property's value and ensure a positive rental experience. It all starts with presenting a well-maintained property that appeals to potential renters. Here are some key steps to follow to find the perfect tenant.

Property presentation: A clean, tidy, and well-presented property will attract more tenants. Before listing the property, ensure it is in top condition. This includes: house washing, gutter cleaning, tidying gardens, mowing lawns, and cleaning both the interior and exterior thoroughly.

Accurate pricing: Research comparable properties in the area to determine a fair rental price. Overpricing may deter potential tenants while under-pricing could lead to missed revenue. If you’re not getting solid interest in the first seven to 10 days, this often means the asking rental is too high.

Modern amenities: Tenants are drawn to properties with modern kitchens, bathrooms, and ample storage space. Using areas like a garage or shed for storage of the landlord’s possessions is not recommended. Homes in modern condition have the most demand and attract premium rents.

Effective marketing: List the property on multiple platforms to reach a wider audience. High-quality, accurate photos and clear, detailed descriptions in advertising are essential.

Include maintenance: If the property has a feature garden, spa or pool, include maintenance and upkeep in the rent to attract more tenants, while ensuring specialised maintenance is undertaken.

Property viewings: Schedule viewing times appropriately for working professionals, taking into account location and traffic. Arrive early to viewings and be prepared to answer any questions potential tenants may have.

Streamline applications: Make the application process straightforward, while collecting all the information you need, and act promptly on vetting potential tenants. Conduct thorough background, reference, and credit checks to ensure the suitability of applicants.

Clear communication: Keep lines of communication open with tenants throughout the letting process. Ensure the terms of the tenancy agreement, including deposit and bond collection and tenant responsibilities, are clearly understood by both parties.

By following these steps and prioritising the needs of both the property and potential tenants, landlords can increase the likelihood of finding a reliable and responsible tenant for their rental property.

Louise

milford.rental@barfoot.co.nz