FROM THE EDITOR

In this month’s issue local scribe Helene Ravlich gives her take on the growing apartment/townhouse market.

When we relocated to Auckland in 2001 very few of our friends would consider apartment living… and now apartments are everywhere we look. Auckland is being intensified to help deal with the city’s growth. Location is the key when it comes to apartment and townhouse living, with many inner central residents looking to downsize and find joy in a more low maintenance space after years in a villa.

The people of Auckland Central, Waitematā, owe Keith McConnell a debt of gratitude. For three years, until his recent death after a short illness, Keith attended every monthly Waitematā Local Board meeting. There are only two constituents who have attended full board meetings every month this term, Keith was one of them. Rest in Peace Keith and thank you for being a mainstay of democracy. You are an unsung hero.

Covid-19 has sadly seen some businesses close but there are opportunities with new places to try. Firstly, Inca has opened in the new Ponsonby Central building. Serving Peruvian and Japanese cuisine, chef Nic Watt has a winner on his hands. Then, Lucky 8, serving Chinese inspired tapas, has opened above Tatty’s. Not to mention Bhana Brothers, who have new owners, - the business now called My Grocer. They have made some changes and the selection is greatly improved. A local told me the fruit and veges are extremely well priced. And for fashionistas I can report that on 1 May, Nudie Jeans will open their first dedicated Ponsonby store. Next month will also see Silky Otter, Ponsonby’s new cinema, open. We have never had so many letters to the editor before. This month there are eight on all kinds of issues. Peter Calder has made his views clear about AT’s work on cycleways and the West Lynn Village. “If you are going to give Lisa Prager and Gael Baldock a full page each to rant against the AT work on cycleways and the West Lynn Village, the least you might require of them is that they make some practical suggestions for improvement rather than simply howling about ancient history. How might Prager and Baldock improve, say, the slope up to the pedestrian crossing? Lower the street or raise the footpath? Both would cost millions and neither would solve the gradient challenge.” (MARTIN LEACH)  PN

Jay Platt & Martin Leach

SINCE 1996

CONNOR CRAWFORD

I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective. I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.

DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM

For the last 53 years I’ve been a freelance entertainment journalist and author. I’ve lived in the Grey Lynn area for nearly three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.

FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

I work as a booker, promoter and festival programmer. Active in all areas of the music community; folk music is my specialty. KEN RING

My yearly NZ Weather Almanacs began in 1999. During the tragic 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, my work created international interest. I currently live in Ponsonby.

KERRY LEE

I’ve been a freelance writer for a year now, and what I love most are the wonderful people I’ve meet along the way. #best job.

LUCY KENNEDY

I am a young local writer who loves to read! Each month you will find my reviews of new books for people who love to read as much as I do.

HONOUR MITCHELL

I have lived in the Ponsonby area all of my life. I write the column ‘Teen Picks’ which explores everything on offer in the greater Ponsonby area. PHIL PARKER

Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.

HELENE RAVLICH

A freelance writer and copywriter for almost 20 years, I have written for publications all over the world and couldn’t imagine myself in any other job. PIPPA COOM

I am Councillor for Waitemata and Gulf Ward on Auckland Council. Formerly, Chair Waitemata Local Board.

JOHN APPLETON

I have a keen interest in nutritional medicine and how it may be used to support people with chronic illnesses. ROSS THORBY

I have had a wanderlust for travel ever since I was old enough to own a passport. Since I discovered cruising, I have become unstoppable.

JOHN ELLIOTT

I am the founder of Ponsonby News and write for the magazine. My career has included politics, education and publishing. My interests include the environment, the economy and social justice. SOFIA ROGER WILLIAMS

A vegan for over a year and vegetarian for over seven years with a passion for writing. I am a local student reviewing some of Ponsonby’s best vegan eats.