Father’s Day 7 September Chelsea & Lily North Shore Youth MPs
22, 000 Copies monthly
Proudly published by
Distributed to homes with welcoming letterboxes in Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill, Castor Bay, Sunnynook, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay, Northcote, Birkenhead, Chatswood, Northcote Point, Birkenhead Point, Hillcrest and to businesses, shopping centres and
Accelerating success.
ON CONSTELLATION - OFFICES 150 - 580 SQM
Looking for professional office space in the popular Constellation Drive area? Various high quality office options available - excellent opportunities for your head office.
Very efficient layout and lift in the building, plus cafe on site and next to the Northern Busway park and ride. Easy access to East Coast Bays, motorways North, CBD and Western. These are exceptional office opportunities.
Walking distance to the cafe and only minutes to Takapuna ensures an excellent working environment. Flexible lease terms available. colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67033152
Chris Palmer 021 558 355 chris.palmer@colliers.com
Happy birthday, Hanoi Haven
Celebrating one year of Vietnamese culinary magic in Takapuna
North Shore foodies, it’s time to raise a glass (or a chilli margarita!) to one of Takapuna’s most beloved dining destinations, Hanoi Haven, as it celebrates its first anniversary of bringing the vibrant, bold flavours of Vietnam to Hurstmere Road.
This modern Vietnamese eatery has quickly become a local favourite, and to mark the occasion, Hanoi Haven is unveiling a fresh wave of exciting new dishes that promise to take your taste buds on a whole new adventure. Think crispy prawns coated in young green rice flakes, tender stuffed chicken with a golden crust, Asian greens and oyster sauce, beef short ribs in black pepper sauce, and pan-seared scallops with chilli garlic butter – each dish a celebration of texture, flavour and culinary creativity.
coffee with condensed milk and coconut cream. What truly sets Hanoi Haven apart is its warm, welcoming atmosphere, impeccable service, and prime location at the gateway to Takapuna’s Eat Street on Hurstmere Road. It’s the kind of place where every detail – from the plating to the post-dining feels – is thoughtfully curated.
With a menu that caters to gluten-free and vegan diners, and a commitment to blending traditional Vietnamese flavours with a modern twist, Hanoi Haven is more than just a restaurant – it’s a destination.
So here’s to one incredible year, and many more to come. Happy birthday, Hanoi Haven! We can’t wait to see what delicious surprises you have in store next.
But don’t worry, the classics aren’t going anywhere. Hanoi Haven’s signature Bo La Lot – chargrilled beef wrapped in fragrant betel leaves – remains a must-try, and a proud staple of the menu.
The bar brims with personality, offering a playful and exotic lineup including the delicious chilli margarita. Whether you're after a bold cocktail, a refreshing mocktail or a crisp wine or beer, there’s something for every palate. And for those who love Vietnamese coffee, another must-try is the divine coconut coffee, a blend of rich, freshly brewed
Hanoi Haven
– exotic flavours with a modern twist 40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393
hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz
Open 7 days, 11am till late
Crispy prawns coated in young green rice flakes
Tender stuffed chicken with a golden crust, Asian greens and oyster sauce Pan-seared scallops with chilli garlic butter
Spicy margarita
Signature dish: Bo La Lot - chargrilled beef wrapped in betal leaves
RARE LAKEFRONT OPPORTUNITY
An exceptional opportunity to secure this architecturally designed home with clean classic lines, positioned on a private 842m² site on the edge of beautiful Lake Pupuke.
The home provides exceptional privacy, natural light, stunning lake views from almost every room, and direct lake access. Set at the end of a unique, private right-of-way, this home offers level access and the convenience of single level living with the master suite and main living areas all on one floor.
• Four spacious double bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a master suite with lake views and an ensuite.
• Expansive northwest-facing open-plan living captures the sun and provides both formal and informal zones, flowing effortlessly to a generous deck designed for lakeside entertaining as well as shelter from Auckland’s prevailing easterly and south westerly winds.
• A separate downstairs living area includes a dedicated office space, lake views, and outdoor flow to the 10-metre in-ground swimming pool.
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
• Triple-car internal access garage, large 5x3m workshop with external access. Boat and Kayak shelter for watercraft and toys at the lake edge.
• Upgraded and modernised in recent years with the original cedar cladding replaced, new roof installed and fully ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning for year-round comfort.
This thoughtfully designed property is ideal for families and professionals alike, offering an enviable lake side lifestyle of relaxation and recreation.
After many years of enjoyment, the current owners are ready for their next chapter creating a rare opportunity to secure this property and transform it into your dream lakefront home.
Our vendors welcome all realistic offers to be presented on or before the deadline date.
Located on the waterfront at the southern end of sought-after Hamana Street, this charming Cape Cod-inspired home was completely reimagined by renowned Devonport architect Julie Stout. This stunning home offers a rare turnkey lifestyle opportunity in an enviable seaside location.
Uninterrupted sea views stretch over the lush, manicured lawns framed by beautiful Pohutukawa trees, creating a picture-perfect setting that captures the very essence of relaxed waterfront living. With its classic “white-on-white” palette, this home radiates understated elegance. Inside, the home features four spacious double bedrooms, including three on the ground floor and a dedicated home office. Two bedrooms and the office enjoy sweeping sea views and flow effortlessly to the outdoors, where expansive cedar bi-fold doors open to a full-width deck.
This outdoor space is cleverly designed with two separate entertaining zones, one of which features a spa pool and is the perfect spot to unwind while watching ships pass through the harbour.
The main living space combines style and comfort, with vaulted rafted ceilings, timber-panelled walls, and a beautifully appointed kitchen complete with a butler’s pantry and casual seating area. Gas central
heating and double-glazed cedar joinery ensure year-round comfort. The fourth bedroom, tucked away at the southern end of the home, includes its own ensuite and private street access, making it an ideal guest suite or semi-independent space for extended family. A second lounge adjacent to this bedroom, lined with built-in bookcases, would make the perfect library, den, or media room. This area flows to a paved courtyard with cottage gardens, mature planting, an outdoor shower, and is positioned perfectly to capture the afternoon sun. There is also a large family bathroom to serve the two bedrooms and an office on this level. The luxurious master suite on the top level enjoys breathtaking sea views, its own private deck with a shower, walk-in wardrobe, and ensuite bathroom, creating a perfect retreat.
Completing this exceptional residence is a large double garage with ample space for two vehicles and additional storage, plus there is also extensive attic storage.
Call us now to arrange your private viewing of this exceptional home.
Andrew specialises in marketing homes on the golden mile between Milford and Takapuna and around the waterfront. In the last eight 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.
Welcome to our August 2025 issue of Channel Mag, your free community magazine that unashamedly highlights positive things happening in our little slice of paradise. Not too much comes free these days, but your 100-page Channel Mag does, thanks to the commercial support of our valued advertisers.
What we love about putting Channel Mag together is it keeps us involved in our community – interacting with people doing wonderful things.
On a sad note, this month we learnt of the passing of Tim Bray, QSM. As is covered by Gail Rotherham’s tribute in this issue, Tim was a wonderful man who leaves a massive gap and a big legacy. The Tim Bray Theatre Company was based on the Shore, and their children’s shows at The PumpHouse were extremely popular. I was personally captured by Tim’s goal of giving as many young people as possible the opportunity to experience their kids shows – even those who came from backgrounds where the cost or disability was a barrier. RIP Tim.
Peter Wolfkamp features on our cover this issue with our focus on building, renovation and related things. Christine Young has done an
Publisher/Advertising
Advertising/Content
interesting feature with Peter. Paula Arblaster talked to Chelsea and Lily, who are two of our North Shore Youth MPs, getting the opportunity to taste national politics, understand what our elected MPs do, and how things happen at The Beehive in Wellington.
Our aim with Channel Mag has always been for it to be a ‘people’ magazine, and with that in mind, I enjoyed the two interviews I did with people from my ‘hood for this issue. Bob Gentil is an interesting fellow, and you couldn’t meet two more positive and community-minded people than Sharon Boyd and Nick Farrelly of Edgecity Builders. The catch-up with them tied in nicely with our building and renovation focus; the added and very special ingredient is how passionate they are about their industry and community.
Enjoy your free August Channel Mag – it’s just one of 22,000 we produced and distributed this month.
Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media
Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz
CHANNEL MAGAZINE is published monthly (on the first Friday of the month) by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. 09 477 4700, benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine visit channelmag.co.nz or contact one of our team detailed above.
Klaudia Wal, Liz Cannon, Kim McIntosh, Crystal Sharp, Aidan Bennett
Psst… Paula’s Finds
Want to get inspired about what's new north of the Harbour Bridge? In this monthly feature called 'Paula's Finds', we capture our newest team member's enthusiasm for finding interesting happenings around the North Shore.
THE ICONIC PIE
We know that Tina and Vong at Mairangi Bay Bakery have won pie awards before, but this one’s a little bit different – they’ve just been included on Auckland’s 100 Iconic Eats list for their Beef Short Rib pie! They might just be the friendliest bakery in Auckland, too! 366 Beach Road, Mairangi Bay, and Pie2Go, 770 Beach Road, Browns Bay.
HEAVENLY PIZZA AT MASTER & MARGHERITA
This bar and restaurant is buzzing, and the smell of pizza baked in a traditional Vesuvian oven is quite frankly irresistible! Famous in Grey Lynn for years and now open on the Shore in a beautiful space in Birkenhead, the reviews are stellar, the service is super friendly, and I just want to come back here again when the sun’s out to try that lovely courtyard. 6 Rugby Road, Birkenhead, mmpizzabar.co.nz
AUTHENTIC KIWI STREETWEAR BRAND COMES TO ALBANY.
Got a streetwear fan in the family? Check out this successful Kiwi brand that’s just opened its latest store in Westfield Albany, near the Kmart entrance. Lower started in Mount Maunganui in 2001 with roots in hip hop culture and is still going strong. You’ll find designs with attitude, bold graphics, and casual comfort. Look out for their mystery boxes – they sell out fast, so watch their website or socials. lower.co.nz
DOES YOUR KID BEAT YOU AT CHESS?
Would they like a fresh challenge, and to win a certificate or even a trophy? The North Shore Sarapu Cup is played at East Coast Bays Bridge Club once a month. This is a fun, social chess tournament for players aged 4 -18. Whether they’re taking their first steps in chess or are already a chess whizz, there’s a division to suit them. Registrations are essential. chesspower.co.nz/sarapu-cup-faq.html
WINTER NIGHT FOOTY
Did you know that Albany has the only purpose-built, all-weather football centre in New Zealand? It’s got all-weather 4G turf, so there’s no mud to ruin the game. (Laundry is easier, too!) They have mixed, men’s, and over-35s leagues, a women’s-only game on Wednesdays, plus a women’s league that will be back in Spring, as well as casual pick-up games you can access through their ‘Multiplay’ app. There’s also kids coaching, birthday parties, and corporate event options. footballfix.co.nz/locations/albany/
GIFTS, ART AND MORE IN TAKAPUNA
A new bright spot at Shore City is Gecko in the Village, a gift shop extraordinaire. The brand originated in Titirangi and has since expanded to ten stores across Auckland, Hamilton, and Mount Maunganui. It has gifts, Kiwiana, souvenirs, art, homewares, and jewellery, with a range of price points to suit a variety of budgets. geckointhevillage.co.nz
ICE AND STEAM AWAY YOUR ACHES IN DEVONPORT
The Recovery Room Devonport is the brainchild of Jack, a Takapuna Grammar student and personal trainer, who has created a wellness studio using hot and cold therapy via an ice bath and a sauna. Jack aims to keep prices accessible, so he has some great deals. He also sponsors the school football team with weekly ice bath and sauna sessions. Open weekends and some evenings – book at recoveryroomdevonport.com
The best of British at the Last Night of the Proms
The British 'Barmy Army' turned out in force to celebrate Auckland Symphony Orchestra's 'Last Night of the Proms' held at the Bruce Mason Centre on Saturday 28 June. Always a wildly fun night, this year was particularly special as the ASO celebrated its fiftieth jubilee. The enthusiastic audience waved flags, threw streamers and balloons and joined in for loud, emphatic renditions of 'Land of Hope and Glory' and 'Jerusalem'. The evening was mc'ed by our very own North Shore talent, Will Martin, who performed beautiful renditions of music by Brit pop icons Elton John, The Beatles and Pink Floyd. With a cast of over 100 performers onstage, led by conductor Emma Featherstone, ASO and Will were also joined by Harbour Voices choir, The City of Sails Pipe Band and the Auckland Regional Highland Dance Company.
Liz and Tim Large, Justin and Sarah Moxon
Shellee Arnold, James Carrick, Braydon Priest and Liz Cannon
Joanne Alexander, Liane Taylor and Susan Rooney
Mick McMahon, Karen Rowe, Paul and Sonja Hill, Angela McMahon and Phil Rowe
David and Jan Spitz, Isla Fletcher-McGrevy, Gail Carran, Alastair Fletcher, Jura Fletcher-McGrevy and Christine Hayes
Clyde Strickett and Jane Wheater
Courtney Wilson and Gretha Smith
Anne Stewart and Teresa Ash
Depot discusses Devonport architecture
Depot hosted several events on Saturday 19 July in support of its current architectural exhibition series, including the exhibition opening of Tate Agnew’s 'Takarunga: A Natural History' at 3 Vic Road, a Meet the Makers kōrero supporting the Whare Toi residency Building (Under the Volcano), and the ‘Provoking Architecture Devonport’ panel discussion at Devonport RSA. The panel discussion explored the evolving character and future of Te Hau Kapua – Devonport as village, suburb, and living ecosystem, informed by two of Depot's current exhibitions: 'Urban Adaptations – Te Hau Kapua Mō Apōpō' / 'Devonport Tomorrow and Building (Under the Volcano)'. Over 100 guests attended, and the evening encouraged vibrant and meaningful discussions, opinions and ideas for the future of Devonport.
Winter 2025 special
Comprehensive General Dentistry
Invisalign clear plastic aligners
Digital Dentistry ( 3 Shape Trios & CBCT scanning)
Teeth Whitening
Cone Bean CT guided surgical implant placement
Dentures
Cosmetic Dentistry
Emergency Dental Care
Free WINZ quotes
Free Teen dentistry (13-18 year olds)
Katie Richebœuf and Tate Agnew
Richard Reddaway, Kate Linzey, Heather Galbraith and Matt Liggins
Kate Linzey, Henry Qiu, Matt Liggins, Simon Jo, Antony Lu, Alexander Wong and Richard Reddaway
David Slack, Rau Hoskins, Duncan Ecob, Jade Kake, Kate Linzey, Joanna Theodore and Matt Liggins
Speaker Kate Linzey and panellists
David Slack, Jade Kake, Rau Hoskins, Duncan Ecob, Kate Linzey, Joanna Theodore and Matt Liggins
PHILIPS Zoom Teeth Whitening
North Harbour Club AGM (& After5) at the B:Hive
The annual North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust AGM was held at the B:Hive HQ on Wednesday 23 July. Once the formalities were over there was an After5 get-together for members. Members and their guests also had the opportunity to tour the recently opened all-new B:Hive+ Workspace in the AIA building at Smales Farm. The 2025 AGM signalled a changeover in leadership for the club with Murray Lockwood (MSC) stepping in to the President’s role which was vacated after three years by Mike Atkinson (Andersen NZ), who stays on the trust as Immediate Past President. Two new trustees, Alicia Glass (ASB) and Serjit Singh (Andersen NZ) replaced outgoing trustees Lloyd Kirby (RSM) and Becky West. Outgoing president Mike Atkinson reported another very strong year for the club that is celebrating 30 years in 2025. Visit: northharbourclub.co.nz
Aidan Bennett and Matthew Bellingham Patsy McCook, Jo-Anne Thomas and Michael McCook
Gary Monk, Murray Lockwood, Blake Douglas and Michelle Bennett
Mike Atkinson and Murray Lockwood
Wendy Stedman, Marcus and Sue Kohn-Taylor and Hugh Stedman
Mike Atkinson, Alicia Glass, Serjit Singh and Murray Lockwood
EXPLORE OUR COASTAL VILLAGES
Whatever age, whatever stage, life is for exploring. At Ryman our villages offer the freedom to choose your ideal retirement lifestyle. Ryman villages offer independent living in townhouses and apartments, assisted living in serviced apartments, and a range of care options, all set among beautiful gardens within easy reach of the coast.
Our villages feature amenities such as a heated indoor swimming pool, an all-weather bowling green, hair and beauty salons, a cinema, a village café, and more.
Discover a retirement filled with opportunity.
Scott Road, Hobsonville, 09 416 0750
2 Rangatira Road, Birkenhead, 09 483 2226
Ngataringa Road, Devonport, 09 445 0909
3
KEITH PARK VILLAGE
BERT SUTCLIFFE VILLAGE
WILLIAM SANDERS VILLAGE
Final Remaining 4-Bedroom Homes
This is your final opportunity to secure one of the last remaining 4-bedroom homes in Light-Box Long Bay, a limited collection of awardwinning homes architecturally designed by Novak+Middleton and developed by Templeton Group.
Combining striking architecture with everyday practicality, Light Box offers a clever balance of open-plan flow and separate living zones, ideal for modern family life.
Priced to sell from $1,415,000, this is your chance to secure a lowmaintenance, coastal lifestyle in Long Bay.
Every detail has been considered to elevate daily life:
• Designer kitchen with stone benchtops and full scullery
• Spacious open-plan living and dining, plus a separate lounge
• ‘Light-Box’ atrium – injecting light into the heart of the home
• Four generous bedrooms, including a master with ensuite
• Flexible layout: Three bedroom + study configuration available
• Family bathroom plus separate powder room
• Study nook perfect for work or study
• Internal access garage with laundry and ample storage
• Direct access to Rydge Park, and an easy walk to Long Bay Beach
Your extended family will love staying at The Emerald this summer
Summer on the North Shore is our little slice of paradise, and a special time to share with our extended families visiting from around New Zealand and the world.
If you’re expecting family over the summer holiday season, but you can’t accommodate them all – or, just between us, you enjoy having your own space – then The Emerald at Takapuna Beach will be their slice of paradise and home away from home.
The Emerald offers boutique accommodation in a subtropical setting with the best of the North Shore at its doorstep. The beach is just steps away, and the lively café and dining scene is just around the corner.
“Our location doesn’t get any better, especially in summer. Being right by the beach, guests can enjoy the water, stroll along the beach or relax on the grass. And the magical sunrise over Rangitoto makes it a really special place to stay,” says The Emerald manager, James Botting.
There are also plenty of options for eateries and entertainment nearby. Your family will love Takapuna Beach Café for a morning coffee or evening fish and chips, and the recently opened Takapuna Surf Club for dinner and drinks or watching the cricket on the balcony.
Summer will be here before we know it, so now is the time to book, as rooms over Christmas and New Year are filling up. The Emerald has a variety of studios and onebedroom and two-bedroom suites to choose from, as well as the luxurious Emerald Penthouse. It also has an outdoor heated pool, bbq, laundry facilities and free parking, making it a convenient place for families to stay.
“We love hosting family members and helping to make it a relaxed and memorable holiday,” says James. “With a handful of rooms left, we want to make sure our local residents and their families are being looked after, so we recommend booking as soon as possible.”
To book accommodation for the summer holidays or to find out more about The Emerald, call or email James on 09 488 3500 or info@emerald-inn.co.nz. You can also book and find more information at emerald-inn.co.nz.
The Emerald - Takapuna Beach
16 The Promenade, Takapuna 09 488 3500 emerald-inn.co.nz
We love hosting family members and helping to make it a relaxed and memorable holiday.
Takapuna Beach Café
Authorised by Hon Simon Watts, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
Prepare to be dazzled!
Bored of boring? Craving some entertainment? Come in from the cold and join us this August at The PumpHouse Theatre. We’d love to welcome you into our warm and cosy space, where a lineup of incredible events awaits!
Wang Zi, a pantomime actor and founder of the Da Ding Drama Society, creates imaginative, original work blending clowning, ventriloquism, and pantomime with a bold, cartoon-like style, and now he's bringing his internationally acclaimed show to The PumpHouse Theatre on 9 August, after appearances at festivals like Edinburgh, Wuzhen, and Tianjin.
After selling out nationwide, Petra Bagust and Niki Bezzant are bringing their hilarious, heartwarming, wisdompacked show 'Hot Mess' to the theatre on 14 August! Full of laugh-out-loud stories, real talk, and practical insights on navigating midlife and menopause with confidence. Grab your menoposse and book now. Seats are limited!
The third instalment of StageAntics’ 'eXpect the uneXpected' cabaret is on stage on 16 August. uNpredictable, uNstoppable, and uNapologetic!
Packed with beloved songs reimagined in bold new ways, this fiercely female showcase is full of surprises, laughs, and a few gaspworthy twists.
Need a breather? 'Journey Along the Silk Road' is your passport to a sonic adventure. The North Shore Concert Band takes you through Greece, Persia, Japan and beyond with lush, cinematic soundscapes. Join us for an afternoon of absolute musical delight on 17 August.
Join psychic medium Sean Collyns on 31 August for an afternoon of live spirit communication, where heartfelt messages from the other side bring healing, connection, and powerful moments of both laughter and tears, even for those who don’t receive a direct message.
Grab your tickets and let The PumpHouse work its magic! We’ll see you at the theatre soon.
James Bell
Depot Te Whare Toi, Devonport
Tēnā koutou, and welcome to August! We’re excited to showcase new exhibitions, workshops and events, as well as a new Maker of the Month in the Depot Shop | Toi Toa. Read on to find out more!
Mason: 'The Boundary of the Intelligible' opens 2 August, 2-4pm and features a series of finely rendered canvas paintings, forming a continuous horizon along the exhibition walls. Inspired by Plotinus, the exhibition reflects on the soul’s position at the boundary between the physical and intelligible realms – the horizon as a symbol of longing, where knowledge and truth remain just beyond reach.
Depot 3 Vic Road
Depot 3 Vic Road’s current exhibition, 'Takarunga: A Natural History' by Tate Agnew, is open until 23 August. Agnew examines Takarunga’s (Mount Victoria) endemic lichen and moss species, microbial footprint, and topographical features, uncovering hidden ecological narratives that shape Takarunga’s identity.
In support of our architectural exhibition series 'Urban Adaptations - Devonport Tomorrow' and 'Building (Under the Volcano)', we facilitate a series of architecture lectures including 'Density and Liveability: What this means and how to deliver it' in which George Weeks, principal transport advisor at Auckland Council, presents a personal professional viewpoint, and talks about urban intensification with examples of local and international best practice that would be relevant to Devonport. Join us at Harmony Hall, 4 Wynyard Street, Devonport, on Wednesday 13 August, 7pm.
3 Vic Road visitors can also browse the Depot Shop | Toi Toa collection for all your gifting needs, including our Maker of the Month for August - Wild Love, whose range of healing skincare and herbal teas connects the magic of plant medicine with everyday rituals of wellbeing.
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!
Depot Artspace
Jennifer
Depot with Amy Saunders
Takarunga: A Natural History The Boundary of the Intelligible
Tim Bray QSM - He gave the gift of theatre to so many
This crisp July has felt heavier than most. On Sunday, 6 July, I learned that my former Director, Tim Bray, QSM, had passed away. I’ve since said my final goodbye at a celebration of his life; a service I think will stay with me forever. The love felt in that room was palpable, a true reflection of this man of great mana.
Since then, I’ve found myself reflecting on the impact he had. Not just on me, but on so many others. He wasn’t just a boss. He was a friend.
He led with kindness, steadiness, and a genuine care for the people around him. Even now in a different career and industry, I still find myself drawing on the lessons I learned while working with Tim. Because Tim didn’t just lead. He built.
By Gail Rotherham
As Founder and Artistic Director of Tim Bray Theatre Company, he shaped an organisation that truly valued people. He dedicated his life to creating theatre for children, bringing joy to hundreds of thousands of audience members over more than three decades. He was committed to ensuring all children could access his work, whether through NZ Sign Language-interpreted performances, audio description, sensory relaxed shows, or the Gift a Seat programme that sponsored tickets for children who might not otherwise have experienced live theatre.
Sadly, Tim Bray passed away on Saturday, 5 July 2025, at the age of 61. His loss is felt deeply, not only by his family and closest friends, but by creatives, colleagues, and audiences. He wasn’t just a director and playwright; he was a passionate advocate for inclusion and access in the arts.
I first worked alongside Tim in 2012 as Event Manager for the 50th Jubilee celebrations, where the company performed Hairy Maclary to the now King Charles and Queen Camilla, along with hundreds of school children. After that, I took on the role of Business Development Manager with Tim Bray Theatre Company. It was a privilege to work alongside him for twelve years and when we wrapped up the Company, I went in search of a different role where I could still carry our values. I found that in the Takapunabased financial advice firm EriksensGlobal, where some of my new colleagues have shared their joyful memories
of going to Tim Bray theatre events with their own children. It shows me that his work lives on in many more ways than I knew.
We sometimes forget how deeply a great leader can shape us. I feel incredibly lucky to have experienced and learned from Tim’s leadership. I’m thinking of his family, his loved ones, and all of us who were fortunate enough to work alongside him.
Rest peacefully, Tim. Thank you for all you brought to our community.
He dedicated his life to creating theatre for children, bringing joy to hundreds of thousands of audience members over more than three decades.
From the publisher: Tim Bray, QSM, was indeed a wonderful man who has been taken far too soon, and leaves a massive gap and big legacy. His cancer diagnosis led to the closure of the Tim Bray Theatre Company in 2024. At Benefitz (and Channel Mag) we saw the difference Tim and his team were making. We were proud to work with Tim, Gail and the TBTC team for many years as a supplier and sponsor, helping them stretch their marketing and advertising dollars as far as they could. I was personally captured by Tim’s goal of giving as many young people as possible the opportunity to experience their kids shows – even those who came from backgrounds where the cost or disability was a barrier. Tim gave a great deal and the Tim Bray Theatre Company worked hard to engage sponsors to ensure cost was removed as a barrier of attendance. Tim’s passing is a huge loss. Rest in peace Tim – Aidan Bennett.
Tim Bray and Gail Rotherham
Tim Bray and Gail Rotherham at the Royal Performance of Hairy Maclary
A simple test that can offer reassurance
By Mr Shahed Yassaie, Colorectal Surgeon and Endoscopist
Noticing fresh bleeding after going to the toilet can be concerning, and it’s something many people experience at some point. While haemorrhoids are often the cause, it’s important not to make assumptions without proper assessment.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy, also known as a Flexi-sig for short, is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that examines the lower part of the bowel. This is the area where most causes of bright red bleeding and rectal symptoms arise. Unlike a full colonoscopy, it doesn’t require a lengthy bowel prep or sedation. A simple enema beforehand is usually enough.
For suitable patients, this test can offer rapid clarity. It not only helps to rule out more serious conditions but can also provide an opportunity to treat haemorrhoids at the same time. Techniques such as rubber band ligation or injection can often be performed during the procedure.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy isn’t always the right test for every patient, but for those with bright red rectal bleeding or persistent symptoms, it’s a focused, low hassle, and often a faster way to get seen for answers and your peace of mind.
If you’ve been putting off getting checked, this might be a straightforward first step worth discussing with your doctor.
At Waitematā Endoscopy, taking a proactive approach to your health is easy. If you or your family doctor are concerned, we accept GP, specialist and self-referrals via our website. Our experienced team will put you at ease when it comes to your endoscopy. Take a virtual tour of the patient journey and our clinic for an insight of what to expect at waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/locations
Mr Shahed Yassaie, Colorectal Surgeon and Endoscopist.
With new Specialists and increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy can provide greater access to timely and quality care Our experienced team are dedicated to providing exceptional endoscopy care at every opportunity
are available within 7 working days for most standard Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy procedures by matching you with the
Colorectal
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
Persian and Mediterranean cuisine.
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
Authentic Italian food. 99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
Vietnamese cuisine. 101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. caféhungviet.co.nz
Calimero
Real pizza, great taste! 163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. Corellis
Home-style fare. 46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafé.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
Indian cuisine. 97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz
Manuka Cafe and Restaurant
Mediterranean inspired cuisine. 49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz
Vondel
Independent owner-operated eatery in Devonport. Serving food to suit every diet, alongside craft beer, natural wine and small-batch spirits. We hold weekly specials, winemakers' dinners, as well as private and charity events. Sign up to our mailing list or follow our social channels to keep up to date.
Hong Kong and Cantonese-style Chinese cuisine for eat-in and takeaways.
41 Victoria Road. 09 200 0683
The Patriot (Pub)
14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.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
So French Café
Housed in Devonport’s charming Old Post Office, So French Café offers a taste of France with freshly baked pastries, gourmet crêpes and rich coffee. Marylène, Quentin and their team are excited to share their passion for French cuisine, serving homemade breakfast and lunch. Stop by for a delicious experience! Now open for dinner every second Friday of the month.
NEW locally owned and operated bar and eatery. Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Sheppards Corner
Authentic TexMex - a slice of Texas on the North Shore. 131 Lake Road, Belmont. 09 447 4377. sheppardsnz.com
XO Takapuna
Asian skewers and street style food. 333 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com
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
Hauraki Social Club
A new locally owned and operated bar and eatery located upstairs in the historic Corner Store building at Hauraki Corner (entrance up the dedicated alleyway at the rear).
Enjoy an excellent selection of beer, wine and other drinks alongside a range of delicious shared plates.
No membership necessary.
335 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner @haurakisocialclub on socials hello@haurakisocialclub.co.nz haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Open Wed-Fri from 3.30pm and Sat-Sun from 12pm
DEVONPORT
HAURAKI
DEVONPORT
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. 8 Anzac Street. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce.
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
The best of California's vibrant coast and LA street scene. Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
Sakebar Nippon
Traditional Japanese (Isakaya style).
32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz
St Marée Bistro
Serving fresh, local and seasonal seafood. 8/33 Hurstmere Road. 09 484 0005. stmaree.co.nz
Street Organics
Making and serving real food, with love and care. 09 216 5991. 1 Byron Avenue. streetorganics.co.nz
Takapuna Beach Cafe
Views of the beach from a sun-drenched deck and lightfilled dining room.
22 The Promenade. takapunabeachcafé.co.nz
Taylors on Hurstmere
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar. 168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz
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
Wok 'n Noodle
Asian restaurant - tasty, nutritious food cooked right in front of you.
1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com
French Rendez-Vous
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday (no bookings needed) with traditional and authentic French flavours like beef bourguignon, gluten-free galettes and sweet crêpes.
Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.
2a Manurere Avenue
Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009
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.
Welcome to St Marée - Takapuna’s newest seafood bistro, inspired by the timeless allure of the New Zealand ocean. Our name comes from the French word for “tide” - a nod to our love of fresh catches and the ever-changing bounty of the sea. The menu is built around local and seasonal seafood, always focused on what’s fresh. Whether you’re after a cosy breakfast, a relaxed lunch or dinner, or just a top-quality coffee with friends, we’re here for fresh seafood, good coffee, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Open Tuesday - Sunday 7.30am until late. 8/33 Hurstmere Road, 09 484 0005 stmaree.co.nz
Discover the Tok Tok experience in Takapuna. Unwind, indulge and savour the vibrant flavours of modern Asian fusion at Tok Tok Takapuna. From fresh, bold dishes to creative cocktails, every bite is a celebration, with vegetarian, vegan and GF options available. Perfect for date nights, group gatherings and those unforgettable moments. Book your table today and taste the extraordinary!
Tokyo Bay is situated seaside, Takapuna Beach. You can dine and watch the cruise liners sail out after a day in Auckland. Open seven days a week with a casual lunch menu featuring light bites to a range of bento box-styled selections. Then from 5pm a more extensive evening menu is available, featuring modern Japanese cuisine. Bookings essential.
The Travellers’ Choice Awards 'Best of the Best Restaurants for 2024' have been announced, with Tokyo Bay Takapuna in the top ten for the fourth year running.
Indulge in Australia's iconic burgers, now in New Zealand! Fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet creative flavour, craft beer, and expertly crafted cocktails. From classic beef to gourmet vegetarian and vegan options, our menu boasts an impressive range of burgers to satisfy every craving. Each patty is carefully cooked to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavourful bite every time. Toppings and condiments are carefully selected to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavours of our ingredients.
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Takapuna, where the vibrant flavours of Vietnam intertwine with contemporary elegance. At Hanoi Haven, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while embracing a modern twist. With years of experience in renowned kitchens across Vietnam, our chef brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Hanoi Haven, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Modern Asian cuisine takes you on a journey through the vibrant flavours of the Philippines, blending traditional recipes with innovative techniques. Our award-winning menu features Asian- and Spanish-inspired tapas, signature dishes, carefully curated wines and cocktails, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Recognised in Metro Top 50 and New Zealand’s 100 Best Restaurants by Cuisine, Nanam is proud to be a neighbourhood favourite. Don’t miss our summer lunch special for just $35! 178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 488 9976, nanam.co.nz nanam.reservation@gmail.com
Lunch: Wed–Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm
Dinner: Tues–Sat, 5pm-10pm Closed Sun/Mon
100 Hurstmere Road, 095585775 Open: 11am - Late - Everyday facebook: Benny's American Burgers NZ instagram: bennysamericanburger.nz bennysburgers.co.nz
Hops & Claret Drinkery
Boasting monthly cocktail specials and a finely curated tapas menu, Hops & Claret is Takapuna's best-kept secret. Nestled amongst the liveliness of Hurstmere Road, it emulates a speak-easy vibe perfect for functions for up to 40 people. Offering an extensive wine list and a cosy atmosphere, the intimate drinkery is your new favourite bar to meet friends over sharing plates, soak up the ambience, and relish in outstanding service as proven by its 5-star rating. Open Wednesday-Saturday. 136 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6330
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre. Perfect for private parties, no venue hire! Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night! Winner Lewisham Awards, Outstanding Local Establishment, Auckland North. Going to Chicago the Musical? Pop in for a pre or post show drink and dinner! Bookings essential.
Loved by locals, DoDo Sushi brings authentic Japanese flavour to Takapuna with a fresh, modern twist.
From beautifully prepared sushi and hearty donburi to comforting ramen, udon and freshly made bento, every dish is made with care and quality. Dine in or takeaway. Simply delicious.
448 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 488 7527
Monday to Saturday 9.30am-7.30pm (Wednesdays until 7pm) instagram dodosushi.takapuna facebook DoDo-Sushi-Donburi
Street Organics
Treat dad to something special!
At Street Organics, we make and serve real food with love and care and no added nasties, catering for all dietary styles and allergies.
Book now for Father’s Day and we’ll have a secret treat for dad! Limited bookings, get in quick!
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.
Welcome to Cousin Scott's Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar in Takapuna — your local honky-tonk hangout! Enjoy mouthwatering American eats with a southern twist, like Nashville hot chicken and our famous Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. Choose from six heat levels, if you dare! With 20 TVs for live sports, pool tables, and arcade games, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with an ice-cold brew. Here, everyone’s family!
A/486 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 485 3822
Open Mon-Thu 11:30am-12am, Fri-Sat 11:30am-1am, Sun 10am-10pm cousinscotts.co.nz
Takapuna Beach Café
Perched on the water’s edge, Takapuna Beach Café offers beachfront dining with panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. This North Shore staple is known for its fresh, seasonal menu ranging from gourmet breakfasts and lunches and now an expanded evening offering that runs until 8pm. Complementing the all-day service is a selection of premium New Zealand wines and beers. Open 7 days, it's the perfect spot for locals and visitors to enjoy delectable pastries, Allpress Espresso coffee and award-winning gelato. Open 7 days, 6.30am-8pm (including public holidays with a 15% surcharge) 22 The Promenade, Takapuna info@takapunabeachcafé.co.nz takapunabeachcafé.com @takapunabeachcafé
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
The Curry Master 18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead
Just minutes from Auckland’s stunning Long Bay Beach, Long Bay Surf Club is the perfect spot to kick back with good food, great vibes and a drink in hand. Loved by locals and a must-visit for tourists, this family-friendly venue serves up elevated pub classics, refreshing cocktails, and offers live sports, weekend entertainment, and weekly specials.
Open Monday-Sunday, 11.30am - late 4/56 Bounty Road, Long Bay 09 473 0908
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
BIRKENHEAD
Tasty Tiny Thai
Good food, great drinks and even better company. Are you looking for the perfect spot to catch up with friends or celebrate a special occasion? Look no further! At Tasty Tiny Thai restaurant, we serve up authentic Thai dishes and delicious drinks in a welcoming atmosphere you'll love. Book a table or order online at tastytinythai.co.nz
Open Mon to Thurs: 12-3pm, 4-9pm Fri and Sat: 12-9:30pm Sun: 12-9pm
Ristorante La Spiaggia
A popular and long-established familyfavourite restaurant facing Murray’s Bay beach, serving authentic and delicious Italian and European dishes. The extensive dinner and dessert menu is available for dine-in. On offer for dine-in guests is a wide range of delicious wines and beers to accompany your meal. Buon appetito!
Opens from 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay 09 475 5643 info@laspiaggia.co.nz laspiaggia.co.nz
Opens from 5pm Tuesday to Sunday
MURRAY'SBAY
Waygu short rib and market fish
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Sending something overseas?
Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one stop shop" for all your international packaging and freight needs. When you need to send overseas to any country you can rely on Pack & Send's experience 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, from a sensitive document to difficult fragile and valuable items to send. "Many of the items we have dealt with are considered too difficult for general freight," says Jeremy.
Sending overseas is complex and Pack & Send makes it easy. “We prepare all the items for sending, make inventory lists and prepare customs documentation,” says Jane.
Many of these items are valuable so Pack & Send customers can use their 'Freight Plus' warranty to cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind – something not generally available when freighting goods of high value.
We prepare all the items for sending, make inventory lists and prepare customs documentation…
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 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 is experienced at sending personal effects and excess baggage, and assisting with personal relocation for work or family.
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.
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.
Bringing innovation to maternity care: How you can help
At North Shore Hospital, the maternity team is committed to delivering exceptional care for our community. As medical technology evolves, it’s crucial to enhance the tools and training available to dedicated clinician teams. With your support, we’re aiming to bring cutting-edge clinical training technology to our local hospital.
The Well Foundation is currently fundraising for an advanced ultrasound simulation training tool called the Ultrasound Mentor. This cuttingedge technology will revolutionise hands-on training for midwives, nurses and doctors, allowing them to refine their skills in a virtual environment without involving patients.
Ultrasound is a vital part of day-to-day obstetric care, and access to timely scanning supports improved diagnosis and early treatment planning, particularly for women experiencing pregnancy complications or acute symptoms.
The Ultrasound Mentor will enable clinicians to practise and perfect their skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to perform timely, point-of-care scans during antenatal visits and emergencies. Realtime bedside scanning can lead to faster diagnosis, quicker treatment decisions, and enhanced outcomes for both mothers and babies.
This initiative is part of the Well Foundation’s broader mission to support clinical innovation, advanced clinical training, and patient wellbeing at our local hospital. By bringing this advanced training technology to North Shore Hospital, we can ensure our maternity team is equipped to provide the best possible care for our community.
We need your help to make this vision a reality. Our fundraising goal is $150,000, and every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to achieving it.
How you can help:
• Donate: Visit wellfoundation.org.nz to make a contribution.
• Share: Spread the word about this project with friends, family and colleagues.
• Get involved: Contact us to discuss larger gifts, sponsorships or legacy opportunities.
With your support, we can ensure our hardworking maternity team has access to the latest training tools, improving care for mothers and babies across our community. Together, let’s bring innovation to maternity care.
Well Foundation is the official charity for North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals. 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
Auckland’s hidden secret: Men’s fashion in Takapuna
Ready to ditch the drab and embrace the dapper? Men, Takapuna is your next fashion frontier. This coastal hub offers everything you need to update your wardrobe, from sharp business looks to relaxed weekend vibes. Get ready to explore your personal style.
A quick guide to dressing better
Looking good isn’t just about the clothes. It’s about confidence, comfort and understanding what works for you. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t look or feel good. Here are a few principles for personal style:
Fit is king: This is the golden rule. Clothes should flatter your body, not swamp or pull awkwardly. Don’t be afraid of tailoring; any piece can look fine with the right fit. Rembrandt in Takapuna is where your wardrobe ascends to royalty.
Start small, build up: You don’t need a whole new wardrobe overnight. Focus on upgrading one or two key pieces at a time. Build your wardrobe around versatile, well-made staples like plain t-shirts, classic denim and crisp shirts. These pieces can be mixed and matched endlessly. Sometimes, even your socks need a touch of Kiwi luxury. Visit Rod & Gunn for quality that stands the test of time.
Give yourself enough time to try on multiple options: It’s easy to underestimate how much time and energy it takes to find the right clothes. Resist the temptation to get in and out quickly. Dare we suggest it, but: fellas, go to multiple stores.
Shop online for staples: If you prefer curating your closet from your home, Farmers is just a click away and offers direct-to-yourdoor delivery. This is especially convenient for stocking up on staples like underwear and t-shirts.
Where to park in Takapuna
Dress for the occasion (and the destination): Always consider the event, the environment, and the company. Life for Men excels at providing garments that blend classic style with modern trends, perfect for Takapuna’s beach vibe or a city meeting demanding a sharper edge.
Pay attention to details: Small things make a big difference. Think clean, polished shoes, a well-chosen watch, a good belt. Take the time to make sure your clothes are ironed and free of stains. These subtle touches speak volumes. Platypus Shoes is your destination to step your style from the ground up.
Get a second opinion: Sometimes you need a fresh pair of eyes. Don’t be afraid to ask a mate, or someone who works in the store, if an outfit looks good. Three Wise Men prides itself on providing expert advice and impeccable craftsmanship, making its team an invaluable resource for honest feedback on your chosen look.
Dress to Impress (yourself!)
Feeling good in your clothes is the best trend of all. So go ahead, speak your style and hit your stride – Takapuna’s got your back. Need some more inspiration on where to shop in Takapuna? Check out our full range of men's fashion spots, and all our other fantastic retail stores around Takapuna in our online directory at www.ilovetakapuna.co.nz.
Did you know there are over 4,000 carparks in Takapuna?
So if you're stopping by for a takeaway coffee, picking up a few items, staying for lunch or dinner, or spending the day at the beach – visiting Takapuna is a breeze!
We have collated all the parking options in Takapuna into a handy web page for you, but here are a few of the main options:
• Quick visits: All around Takapuna, on-street parking is free for the first 10 minutes!
• Shore City Shopping Centre: has 860 spaces with two hours free parking for Shore City shoppers.
• Toka Puia Car Park: off Northcroft and Huron St, with 420 carparks, free on weekends, and so much more!
• Killarney Street Car Park (Bruce Mason Centre): 270 spaces, updated pricing and open 24/7.
• Anzac Street carpark: 150 spaces available, including 12 P10 spaces. This carpark is busier than usual, is pay and display, but free after 6pm, Sundays and public holidays.
Check out all the parking options, including pricing, on our website: ilovetakapuna.co.nz/discover/parking-options
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
Life For Men
Platypus Shoes
Rembrandt
Farmers
Your guide to the North Shore’s best hot chocolate
Winter has arrived and there’s nothing quite like hot chocolate. It’s a simple pleasure. A good hot drink melts away the chill, one delightful sip at a time. Get ready to discover Takapuna’s best chocolate.
Takapuna’s top spots for hot chocolates
Here are the best places to get your hot chocolate fix in Takapuna:
Power potion: Jam Organic Café. Jam’s ethos revolves around delicious, wholesome food made from scratch using organic and locally sourced produce. This ethos extends to their beverages and hot chocolates.If you want to spice it up, try an elixir on the menu from Misty Day Plant Potions. We recommend a spoonful (or two) of 'Power' potion powder added to a hot chocolate. It’s beetroot-based with cacao, ginger, and adaptogenic mushrooms. It’s delicious. 33-45 Hurstmere Road
Natural goodness: Street Organics. Street Organics is a top choice for those who appreciate a truly wholesome approach. This whole foods café prides itself on crafting delicious, nutritious, and healthy food and drinks using local organic ingredients. You can expect any beverage from here to align with their commitment to natural goodness. It’s an ideal spot for a moment of mindful indulgence. Ground Floor, 1 Byron Avenue
including classic, dark and white chocolate. Ground Floor, 52 Anzac Street, Shore City
Shopping break: Majestic Café. Tucked inside Shore City, Majestic Café offers sanctuary from your shopping spree. Beyond their array of 35 different teas (let us know if you want a deep dive on the best tea in Takapuna), Majestic serves a standout hot chocolate crafted with real Belgian chocolate,
The art of the hot chocolate
Top-notch presentation: Mimosa café. This charming café offers an intimate setting that makes it perfect for quiet conversation or a moment of solitude with your warm drink. The crew here have a special knack for the little details that make your drink Instagram-worthy. 460 Lake Road
Warm hands and a beach view: Takapuna Beach Café. Enjoy your hot chocolate with one of the best views in Takapuna! Every sip is made sweeter by gazing out at the beautiful coastline and Rangitoto Island. But it also tastes incredible because it is made with Valrhona fair-trade cocoa. It’s your turn to watch the waves roll in and let your winter worries melt away with every rich, chocolatey sip. 22 The Promenade
Tried and true: Starbucks. Sometimes, you just need a reliable hot chocolate. When everything is chaos, Starbucks stands as a café of calm. It’s a comforting and familiar experience that will always be there for you. Plus, there’s free wi-fi. Top tip: Explore the seasonal flavours for a delightful twist on your favourite drink. 50 Hurstmere Road
Sweetness is a choice. Hot take on hot chocolate, treat it like coffee. If you want it sweeter, add sugar to taste. This can help you tailor the flavour and appreciate the subtle notes.
Temperature is key: The ideal hot chocolate should be warm enough to be comforting, but not so hot it scorches your tongue. This depends on your personal preference but the right temperature (52-60ºC) allows the complex flavours of the chocolate to truly shine.
Consistency is crucial: Is it thick and decadent, or light and milky? A good hot choccy finds that perfect balance.
To marshmallow or not to marshmallow: Do you prefer the simple elegance of a plain hot chocolate or a cloud of fluffy marshmallows (toasted or otherwise)? Marshmallow in the drink or on the lid? Only you can decide, but we do like to keep an eye out for cafés with a jar of marshies on the counter.
Chocolate quality matters: Ask what brand of chocolate your local café uses. Don’t be shy! High-quality chocolate makes all the difference to the depth and richness of your drink.
Feeling adventurous? Ask your barista about different flavours and spices. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, a hint of star-anise, or even a touch of Chinese five-spice. Baristas are often passionate about their craft and may even have secret ingredients. P.S. Please don’t ask for special requests during a rush; wait for a quiet time of day.
Savour the experience: The way you drink your drink matters. There is an interesting study that says even the colour of your cup can influence your experience. What about the material of the cup; do you prefer glass, ceramic or paper takeaway? Take your time and ask (nicely) for what you really want.
However and wherever you like to enjoy your hot chocolate or winter warmer drinks, Takapuna has the perfect place for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Your Takapuna hot chocolate date awaits. For a list of all of the amazing places to eat and drink in Takapuna, check out our online directory at ilovetakapuna.co.nz!
Visit the I Love Takapuna website to stay up to date with everything happening in Takapuna from events and giveaways, to the best places to eat, shop and play - and sign up to our newsletter to get this information straight to your inbox! Visit ilovetakapuna.co.nz for all things Takapuna.
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
Meet the stamp man
Harbour Hospice volunteer Paul Hopley has found a unique way to stamp his mark on his volunteering role.
If you’d asked Paul Hopley 10 years ago what he knew about postage stamps, he would have said “nothing”. But that was before the Harbour Hospice retail volunteer of 15 years and his shop manager discovered a big pile of old stamp albums out the back of their store. Fascinated, Paul took them home and began systematically sorting and cataloguing them. He read everything he could about what made a stamp valuable, and a year later, he knew enough to begin selling to collectors. Today, Paul will tell you he knows “a million times more” than he did back then, and the Hospice Retro and Books store in Birkenhead, where he volunteers, has become the only place in Auckland that collectors can go to get good-quality stamps for a great price.
The former stationer has sold well over 350,000 stamps in the last 10 years – a mix of mint stamps (brand new) and good-quality used – and made tens of thousands of dollars for Harbour Hospice patient and family care. Every donation and sale is recorded in a notebook he keeps, and his notes help him recognise stampcollecting patterns and trends. The collecting of virtual stamps is one trend he’s now seeing grow.
Paul has regulars he deals with directly when new stamps come in that he knows they’ll be interested in. “Some are a little bit like miniature works of art,” he says, “and stamps become very soughtafter when they’re rare, or when only one is needed to complete a series or set.”
The day we visited Paul, he was very excited about a collection of stamps from Papua (its name was changed to Papua New Guinea in 1972) he’d put together from the early 1900s. He’d already called one of his regulars and was confident they’d buy the lot. With most stamps selling at around 15 cents each, it’s practical to sell them in bundles. Paul has sold the odd individual stamp for $100 or more, though, and always has his eye out for those very rare and valuable stamps that would sell for thousands through a dealer.
“We charge about a third of what a dealer would, though, because dealers buy their stamps and we get them donated,” he says.
Paul is fortunate to have a great supply chain for donated stamps, but he’s keen to connect with new customers. “Very few people send letters now, so I’m hoping that means stamps will become even more sought after. They’re even more of a scarcity.”
If you’re a collector or keen to start collecting, give Paul a call at Hospice Retro and Books on 09 480 2522, or pop into the store at 1 Hammond Place, Birkenhead. All money raised from Hospice shop sales goes directly into patient care.
By Hon Simon Watts, North Shore MP
Getting local government back to the basics
Earlier this month, I introduced legislation in Parliament that will return local government back to the basics – providing quality services while keeping rates as low as possible.
We know Aucklanders are still doing it tough with cost of living challenges. In central government we continue to do our bit –inflation is down, interest rates are down, and we are seeing positive growth in the economy.
But local government must also do its bit. When councils were consulting on current long-term plans, rates were identified as a driver of household inflation. Rates had risen the fastest in 20 years and were forecast to rise again by an average of 15%.
We
want to ensure ratepayers see real results for what they pay. We want councils to get back to the basics – and do them brilliantly. That means focusing on the essentials that are the top priority, like our water services, infrastructure, roading, and rubbish.
There have been too many instances around the country where councils have lacked fiscal discipline and spent far too much on things that most people do not consider core activities of local government. We want to ensure ratepayers see real results for what they pay. We want councils to get back to the basics – and do them brilliantly. That means focusing on the essentials that are the top priority, like our water services, infrastructure, roading, and rubbish.
That’s why our new legislation will remove the four ‘wellbeing’ provisions in the Local Government Act, while requiring that councils prioritise core services when managing finances and setting rates.
On top of that, we are currently looking at a potential rates capping model.
We are serious about ensuring ratepayers are getting value for money, with average rate increases in 2024 of 9.6%. With rates being a key driver of inflation, we have to make changes.
We will have more to say about potential rate caps at the end of the year – but for now, we are making sure councils know what New Zealanders expect from them.
Hon Simon Watts — MP for North Shore Minister of Energy, Climate Change, Revenue and Local Government
Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz 09 486 0005
facebook: @simonwattsmp instagram: @simonwattsmp
Paul Hopley
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
Getting ready for summer
The last Sunday in September is the start of daylight saving and the beginning of the shift towards summer. It’s often a time for optimism; however it’s also common for people to feel worse before they feel better. It can be helpful to understand why this time lag exists. If you’re aware of the factors around the 'spring slump', you can manage your expectations and activities accordingly.
The first reason for the spring slump is the time change. The move to daylight saving can throw out your circadian rhythm, the 24 hour internal clock that’s running in your brain’s hypothalamus. This clock is very reliant on light for cues. A sudden change, even just an hour, can disrupt healthy hormone production, particularly when combined with the sleep deprivation associated with moving into daylight saving. Many people experience challenges to mood, appetite and metabolic rate following the shift. It’s common to feel tired, demotivated and prone to overeating.
The second reason for the spring slump is seasonal allergies. Pollen counts tend to be particularly high on breezy days and this can send your body’s defences into overdrive. This can create itchy, watery nose and eyes. It can also cause headaches and fatigue. Many people with minor allergies don’t give their symptoms much thought initially, possibly blaming a cold or being generally run down. If you suspect you might be suffering spring allergies there are apps you can use to check the allergy forecast and track your symptoms against the environment.
The third reason for the spring slump is the change in routine. Many people are very reliant on daily routines. An extra hour of daylight can be great if you’re eating al fresco in January. But in early October the extra hour is often an additional imposition to adjust to. When the clocks change, we tend to close up the house for the day a bit later, so there’s more time doing jobs. Children expect to stay up later. It’s very easy for the admin part of the evening to lengthen, and the hibernating part of the evening to shorten. This can be demoralising.
When you’re in a spring slump it can be challenging to find the motivation to exercise. But when you feel like it least, you need it most. Exercise helps with the mental grogginess associated with the shift to daylight saving.It helps regulate your confused clock by supporting the appropriate release of the hormones needed for settled sleep. It also promotes the production of the happy hormones that improve your mood. You can’t exercise away your seasonal allergies but getting your heart rate up promotes blood circulation, improving the removal of allergens. Blood circulation promotes general immunity against a spring cold.
Many people like to view September as the new January. There’s still a quarter of a year to go, and plenty can be accomplished in the season associated with growth and renewal. Focus hard on your health to push through the spring slump. Everything will seem easier when the sun comes out.
Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna 0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz clairebellingham.co.nz claire@clairebellingham.co.nz
Want to meet people and be social?
Friday draw
Club dinners
Quiz nights
Club Days
New to the area?
Come down and meet new friends
All ages welcome
Social and active memberships
Social committee
Time on your hands? Lots of opportunities to get involved
39 The Strand, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz
Gentle Bob’s in his happy place
By Aidan Bennett
You most probably wouldn’t know Bob Gentil by sight. But it is highly likely you would recognise his voice. Bob’s one of New Zealand’s premier voice-over artists, whose voice features in lots of different ways in the New Zealand media scene. It has for decades. Bob’s neutral silky New Zealand accent sees him being used for multi-market campaigns and lots of different voice-overs.
Growing up, I remember Bob Gentil being one of the ‘cool’ DJs we listened to on radio. Pre-internet, I loved listening to him. His broadcasting heritage goes back to the early days of the history-making, with Radio Hauraki – the pioneers of private radio in New Zealand.
I also remember Bob being a champion promotor of disc (frisbee) golf in New Zealand. He’s now an International Hall of Famer and a life member of the sport in New Zealand.
These days the Takapuna father of three specialises in voice work; in fact that’s the name of his business. He also spends many a morning walking, swimming and socialising on Takapuna Beach. I caught up with Bob for a chat in late July.
How long have you lived on the Shore?
Bob Gentil: Pretty much all my life. I was born in Milford at the old obstetrics hospital that used to be on Beach Road. My three brothers and I grew up in the family home on Minnehaha Avenue. Thorne Bay was our playground. After leaving school I flatted for years on Takapuna Beach.
The first house I brought was actually in Mt Eden, but I couldn’t wait to get back over the bridge. The first Shore home I owned was an old villa on Birkenhead Point. I then brought a hunk of Fern Glen Native Gardens on Kauri Road in Birkenhead off the Fisher family before they bequeathed the rest to the city. We built a steel and glass house there where we raised our boys. In 2017 it was time to downsize, and I shifted back to my ‘happy place’, Takapuna. Just up from the beach!
What do you love about the Shore that has kept you here for so long?
Possibly because it’s the spot where I arrived on the planet, it just feels like home, it’s my village, especially Takapuna. I love
this community. The beach and the sea is my happy place. To me the Shore has a laidback feeling about it.
I’ve chucked frisbee as far back as I can remember. The flight of the piece of plastic has always intrigued me. It was always just a game up until I was doing a yacht delivery to the US back in the late 70s.
I’ve read that you’re still mad about disc golf. How did you get into it, how often to you play and why do you enjoy it so much?
I’ve chucked frisbee as far back as I can remember. The flight of the piece of plastic has always intrigued me. It was always just a game up until I was doing a yacht delivery to the US back in the late 70s. While in Hawaii I heard an ad on the radio promoting the Hawaiian Champs hosted by the International Frisbee Association. I attended, met global movers and shakers, and came away with a whole new enthusiasm as my ‘game’ had just evolved into a ‘sport’.
Upon my return to New Zealand, I formalised the New Zealand Frisbee Association which became the New Zealand ‘Flying Disc’ Association. Frisbee is a brand name. Now there is NZU (New Zealand Ultimate, the team sport) and NZDG (New Zealand Disc Golf), both standalone associations. We’ve held 47 annual NZDG championships, and I’ve attended every one.
When we started, we’d only have 15-20 competitors, but the sport has grown so fast we’ve now gone to two courses and tee times to cope with the numbers. Even then, most events have a wait list. At this
stage we have six public plus a few school courses in Auckland with just one on the Shore at Rosedale Park. But… watch this space. Every month in New Zealand there are new courses going in the ground. There are already over 100 courses throughout the country.
I read that you were inducted into the Professional Disc Golf Hall of Fame. How did that come about?
Yeah! It was a real honour. At that stage there weren’t too many people outside the USA in the DG HOF. The induction ceremony was at the 2012 World
Bob Gentil on Takapuna Beach
Professional Disc Golf Championships in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was very special. It seemed more people than I realised had an idea of the time and energy I’d put into getting the sport up and running in New Zealand.
I still play disc golf very casually once or twice a week and play a few tournaments. In fact I won my division at the ‘Aussie Masters’ last month, but most of the chucking I do is on Takapuna Beach with a couple of buddies. We were chatting about it the other day and realised we’d been doing it for 53 years. Same guys, same beach.
I have a website with a lot of New Zealand disc golf history on it along with discs etc. for sale (discgolf.co.nz).
Have you always been an action and sports-mad man? I see your other interests I are sailing, fishing and skydiving.
Yeah! Even a good game of tiddlywinks will grab my attention. I guess that’s ‘sports mad’. I’ve spent most of my life sailing, mainly blue water with my brother. Our last adventure was the South China Sea coast off Borneo. Gotta love the tropics over our winter.
I also enjoy getting the tinny out. The Shore gives us easy access to the most amazing harbour. I enjoy fishing, but to me it’s really just a great excuse to get out on the briny. If I come in from a day on the water and have caught dinner, that’s a bonus.
I got addicted to jumping out of planes back in the 80s when it was suggested I jump in a radio station promotion – a big dig on Milford Beach. I was only planning on just doing the one jump, but it was 20 years and 1500 jumps later before I tamed the adrenalin rush. I still think about it from time to time.
You obviously still do voice work. Is that still fulltime?
I’m still used quite a bit for voice work. I’m in the studio two or three times a week doing everything from TV and radio commercials to docos and sales presentations.
I was the voice of Sky Sport for many years from its launch in 1990, and then TV2. My voice has been really good to me over the years. At one stage I was flying to the States regularly to voice international campaigns for the likes of Air New Zealand.
Do you still do any radio these days? Yup! 56 years on I still love the great medium of radio. I’ve tried to retire a
couple of times but still seem to be doing shows on Media Works, on their adult brands ‘Magic’ and ‘The Sound’, pretty much every day. I consider myself blessed having had a five-going-on-six decade career that I’ve loved every day of. It’s not really a job, it’s a way of life.
Did you train to achieve your silky voice or were you born with it?
Ha! Na! I never had any formal broadcasting training. For me it was just a matter of being a 16-year-old at the right place at the right time when Radio Hauraki needed a gofer (go for this go for that). It was a totally accidental career.
How often are you on Takapuna beach? I’m at my ‘happy place’ every day. Starts with a walk, a coffee at Takapuna Beach Café and a swim most days. Then more often than not when the tide’s out you’ll find me chucking disc with my buddies or whoever I can find.
Where do you love to go on holiday in New Zealand and overseas?
I love holidaying here in paradise. It’s always great to head south and experience the alpine environment of Central Otago. I had a brilliant holiday a while back in the Marlborough Sounds, but being a salt water and sand on my feet sort of dude my most memorable holidays are in the warmth of the winterless north. In saying that I’ve tied holidays in with disc golf events all over the world and for heaps of years escaped the worst of winter by
joining my brother on his yacht in the tropics and had some amazing adventures.
What are your favourite eateries on the Shore?
There are so many great restaurants and cafes on the Shore. A trip to Devonport for dinner at Café Hung Viet never disappoints and Botticelli in Takapuna is always a great night, especially when they have live music, and is there a better way to start the day than breakfast or brunch with the view at Takapuna Beach Café. Oh! If the call is for pizza we’ll happily head to Highbury to dine-in or takeaway at Blitza.
With the benefit of decades of life experiences, what key piece of advice would veteran Bob give to teenage Bob of many summers ago?
Stand tall, be confident but respectful, be honest, especially to yourself, treat everyone as you would like to be treated and never give up on finding your happy place.
Complete the following; A perfect day for Bob Gentil is to…
…get up with the sun and head out for a fish on the outgoing, on return a stop at the Beach Café for coffee and brunch, before jumping on my bike and heading back to the beach for the low tide to catch up with mates for a beach frisbee session and a swim, and… maybe a beer! Then home to sit at the table with the ones I love for a fresh fish dinner. Doesn’t get much better than that. Chur!
Bob Gentil in Disc Golf action, winning the Aussie Masters in June
WHAT’S TRENDING
The Photo Studio
Digital Prints from - $0.29
Print your favourite memories on premium 260GSM Photo Paper. Sizes from 6x4 to A0 available, perfect for albums, frames or gifts. Order online, pick up in-store at Glenfield Mall in just 24 hours. Fast, simple, high-quality photo printing made easy.
Smile Dental - Glenfield Mall
Dental Examination (excl. X-rays) - Free
Looking for a trusted dental practice you can count on?
Look no further! At Smile Dental, your smile is their priority. Whether it’s your routine check-up or any dental care you need, they are here to provide friendly, professional service you can trust. Book your next appointment today!
Turn heads this season with the ultimate statement piece. This bold boxy-fit jacket features luxe faux fur in a playful cow print, with functional jet pockets and a soft feel, it’s fashion meets function. Layer over basics or style up with boots for full impact.
Embrace refined simplicity with these stunning sterling silver hoop earrings. Designed with a classic 25mm half-round profile and a radiant polished finish, they o er timeless appeal and everyday versatility. Perfect to complement any outfit — from casual to formal.
Cotton On Cow Print Faux Fur Jacket - $129.99
Michael Hill
25mm Hoop Earrings in Sterling Silver - $ 149.00
Advocates for our future
– meet two of our North Shore Youth MPs
What are Youth MPs?
Every three years, the Ministry of Youth Development organises Youth Parliament, a two-day event where young people, aged 16-18 years, take their places in the Beehive as Youth MPs. At Youth Parliament, they have a unique opportunity to influence government thinking and decision-making through speeches and debates, questions posed to Ministers, and proposed solutions to current issues. A youth press gallery also takes part, with hopeful young journalists quizzing the Youth MPs and reporting on their proposals.
The event in Wellington is just one component of a four-month programme where Youth MPs get involved with their local MP in their electorate, learning about the day-to-day tasks and challenges they face, the work done by electorate staff, and the concerns of their constituents. They also meet and collaborate with their working groups over this period to create the proposals they will present in Parliament.
Let’s meet two of our local Youth MPs who recently represented their electorates in Wellington.
CHELSEA BROWN – WORKING WITH HON. SIMON WATTS, MP FOR NORTH SHORE
Chelsea was already an active leader before she decided to become a Youth MP. A Year 13 student, she is one of two head girls at Carmel College, with the responsibilities and workload that go with that role. She’s also a top student, has been involved in debating for many years, plays netball and hockey, coaches year seven netball and performs service hours as part of the Carmel College programme. And then she decided to become a Youth MP!
As a year nine student, Chelsea was fascinated with the impact a leader could have in her school community, as she saw head girls act as role models to younger students and play a part in school decision-making. The wider world of politics was already of interest to her; Chelsea credits her family for some of this, as it was a normal part of daily life at
home to discuss current events, with everyone encouraged to put forward their views and where ideas could be debated positively.
When she was only 14, in 2021 Chelsea participated in the Yale Model Government programme run by Yale University. She had to stay up until 1am to participate in the online programme and then needed to wake up a few hours later to get ready for school. There was a lot to discover about the other countries represented and the many different ways their political systems are structured. That year, she also participated in local politics with the Raise Your Voice UN Youth event, where youth representatives engaged with Auckland Council.
Chelsea is particularly passionate about youth mental health. When she saw the Youth Parliament advertised, she immediately thought youth mental health was a topic she could bring up in the general debate – a great platform to raise some key issues she felt were not being addressed. She’d had some experiences with friends who had shown her weak points in the current system and the way young people are taught about mental health.
Before going to Youth Parliament, Chelsea canvassed other young people for their thoughts and ideas and spoke with the cochairs of Younite for their input. She wanted to represent more than just her own opinions.
Chelsea would go on to make a speech about preventative strategies for early intervention in youth mental health through workshops in high schools, as well as access to pathways to get support and advice for both yourself and the network of friends around you.
Chelsea says that Youth Parliament was an eye-opening experience. “It was fascinating to discover all the work that goes on behind the scenes, and it was affirming to meet a lot of other young people who also care deeply about politics and making a difference.”
They were a diverse bunch who represented a wide array of backgrounds and political positions. Although Youth Parliament intends to have non-partisan Youth MPs, some people are already members of political parties, and this can add to the rigorous debate.
Chelsea also had the opportunity to spend a day shadowing her electorate MP, Hon. Simon Watts, on a day that was full of meetings with local businesses and consultations around solar energy use.
“It was wonderful that someone so busy, with ministerial responsibilities as well as electorate MP duties, would take the time to get me involved and help me learn so much about an MP’s work.”
Attending Youth Parliament and learning about an MP’s job in the electorate has made Chelsea even more keen to pursue politics as a career in the future. She likes the idea that it’s a career where you work with a huge variety of people and do a lot of problem-
Chelsea Brown
Chelsea Brown with Hon Simon Watts
solving. There are also a lot of skills to learn – from understanding the backgrounds and concerns of your constituents, legislation and parliamentary processes, to considering how your proposals are going to be presented in the media.
Chelsea considers that she will be a better political candidate after having some more life experience and work experience, and is planning to pursue a qualification in law or business in the immediate future.
LILY FOSTER – WORKING WITH DAN BIDOIS, MP FOR NORTHCOTE
Lily is another student leader, deputy head girl at Birkenhead College, with a long-term interest in politics. She is a keen debater, which has helped her become proficient at public speaking. Debating teaches you to listen carefully, formulate ideas quickly and then express those ideas persuasively. Key competencies for a career in politics!
But it is the passion behind the ideas that shows that Lily is more than just an accomplished speaker. She is passionate about betterment, about helping the most vulnerable in New Zealand and in the global community.
Lily also plays the violin and is a slam poet. Slam poetry, for those who haven’t encountered it before, is spoken word poetry designed to be performed in front of a live audience. If you watch some on YouTube, you will find it is incredibly visceral stuff! You can check out Lily’s slam poetry on 22 August, National Poetry Day, at Birkenhead Library, 6.30-7.30pm.
In addition to being deputy head girl, Lily is a student board representative. It was attending board meetings that gave Lily her first insight into how central government plays a critical role, even in the school community around her. The experience of board meetings where the principal, teachers, student
representatives and parent representatives worked together on issues showed her that a diverse group of people with different points of view still had large areas of common ground that allowed them to work well together.
Lily first heard about Youth Parliament when Dan Bidois visited to speak at an assembly. For someone already considering how to get involved in politics and concerned about New Zealand’s role in world matters, the opportunity was a perfect fit. Lily realised this was both a learning opportunity and a chance to build connections with other politically-minded people. She loved meeting and listening to the other Youth MPs, learning how they were informed by different backgrounds and life experiences, and then interacting together with them in groups, critically thinking through issues and formulating ideas.
Lily realised this was both a learning opportunity and a chance to build connections…
For someone who follows politics, being inside a working parliament created some 'star-struck' moments. Like saying hello to the person you’re passing on the stairs, then they turn and say hello to you, and it’s Chlöe Swarbrick!
Youth MPs get a chance to use their public speaking skills in this unique environment, watched the whole time by the press gallery, other Youth MPs and actual electorate MPs. The standard of presentation skills was high, and it could be intimidating to know that
you might go on straight after an especially compelling presentation. However, the nerves settled as soon as Lily began her speech, and she was swept up by her subject.
Lily’s speech was about the need for investment in 'Third Spaces' for youth. Third spaces refer to the third most important space in your life, after home (your first space) and work (your second space). It’s an informal and relaxed space where you can interact face-to-face with peers and develop a sense of connection. Youth third spaces usually have arts, music and sports equipment to encourage participation and the development of new skills. For many of our youth, these kinds of spaces either don’t exist or are not easily accessible, and they miss out on the mental health benefits that such spaces can provide.
Lily also had the opportunity to work with her electorate MP, Dan Bidois, by going to events and meeting constituents with him. She says Dan is genuinely connected to his community, knows a huge number of people he sees walking down the street, and is very engaged with their issues.
She summed up her takeout from spending time with Dan: "To be a good politician, it’s clear you can’t be power-hungry. You have to care about the people around you because ultimately it’s the people in New Zealand that matter the most, not your ambitions.”
Lily plans to pursue university next, possibly in law and global studies, as her dream is to work for Manatū Aorere – the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
We will be hearing more from Chelsea and Lily in Channel Magazine as they will each pen an article for us. We look forward to hearing more about their innovative ideas and understanding some of the experiences they and other young people have in our community.
Lily Foster with Dan Bidois.
Lily Foster.
SHORE
PHOTO GIFTS
Four passport sized prints on a single sheet of photographic paper, suitable for official documents or just for fun... Add stickers, decorations and colour filters to your snaps – just remember not to smile if they are for your passport! shorephotogifts.co.nz
DEPOT SHOP | TOI TOA
Our Maker of the Month is Wild Love, whose range of healing skincare and herbal teas connect the magic of plant medicine with everyday rituals of wellbeing.
3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz depot.org.nz, 10am-4pm, Tues-Sun
CRAVEHOME
Whether indoors or outdoors, standing or hanging – the small, portable LED light Ole sets the perfect scene for your home and garden. With a fully charged battery, Ole provides up to 108 hours of light and never misses a beat: whether for garden parties, camping holidays, beautiful evenings on the terrace or as atmospheric light throughout the house – with its practical handle, Ole can simply be taken anywhere.
Elevate your everyday look with the Sakura Penelope Sneakers. Featuring a 4cm flatform heel, sleek finish and cushioned comfort, these sporty-chic kicks offer the perfect mix of style and ease — designed for all-day wear, wherever life takes you. numberoneshoesandhannahs.co.nz 09 444 6519
YARNTONS
Yarntons is having its 'Big Winter Sale'! Up to 50% off on beloved brands like Elm, Orientique, Vassalli and more... This Elm Puffer Reversible vest is now $91 (previously $129.95). Find more deals like this at Yarntons!
Featuring a hand-painted design created inhouse, In Bloom bed linen showcases the beauty of delicate dahlia flowers in soft blush pinks, greens and white. Crafted from certified organic cotton in a versatile reversible design.Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see and shop our brand new collections in person. 156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com
THE SHEEPSKIN FACTORY
Travel in comfort: Sheepskin car seat cover. 34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679 thesheepskinfactory.co.nz
9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
COSI FAN TUTTE
Spoil dad this Father’s Day at Cosi Fan Tutte. We have perfect gift ideas, including Durance Men’s Bath and Body, La Rochère glassware, and Solmate Socks for warm and toasty feet. So much to choose from! 73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
LIQUORLAND TAKAPUNA
Special of the month for August is Clan MacGregor Scotch 1l. Perfect for scotch-loving dads this Father's Day, Clan MacGregor is skillfully blended from a selection of Scotland's finest malt and grain whiskies with hints of fruitiness and Speyside malts. A high-quality, light and fragrant whisky with a well-balanced, smooth, mellow taste, it resonates with modern whisky drinkers across the world. Special price for one: $52.99
FLORIENNE
We are your local treasure trove of beautiful flowers and houseplants, vessels and vases, candles and cards. We deliver or come visit our store in the heart of Takapuna Beach. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
Special price for two: $95 182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770 takapuna@liquorland.co.nz liquorland.co.nz
SHORE PHOTO GIFTS
Perfect gifts for dad this father's day. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz
MOKSHA DRINKS
Spice of India Gin – an award-winning contemporary gin inspired by the bold, warming flavours of masala chai. Crafted for sipping or mixing with dry ginger ale or ginger beer, it’s perfect for cooler winter months and Father's Day gifting. Visit mokshadrinks.com for a list of local stockists or to purchase online.
#Gramworthy
Our round-up of posts on IG from local Hauraki and Belmont spots, that we’ve double-tapped (liked), and a Q&A with Adrian from @haurakisocialclub
Adrian Wills began his career as a designer and software developer, working in the tech industry for a little over 10 years before dipping his toes in hospitality. Although he still does a bit of tech work, the Hauraki Social Club is now where he spends the majority of time, and he says it's been a crazy ride to land here. Adrian and his wife moved to Hauraki around eight years ago and now have two daughters at Hauraki School. “We love the neighbourhood with the locals and friends we've met here,” explains Adrian. He talks about running Hauraki Social Club and social media.
Channel Mag: Tell us about Hauraki Social Club…
Adrian Wills: Having been in hospitality for a few years, I'd often discussed with my wife, friends and locals about having a great little place to socialise over a drink or a bite that was walking distance from the neighbourhood. When the space in the iconic old Corner Store became available, it seemed like a great opportunity to create a warm, welcoming environment for local families and neighbours to get together and enjoy themselves; somewhere we'd go ourselves if we wanted to head out for a date night or take the kids on a lazy afternoon. From there, it was a process of creating a brand that resonated with that goal, designing a fit-out that felt comfortable to customers, and building a following by engaging in the community in person and online.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you? Who do you recommend following and why?
Yeah, I try to keep across the wider social media platforms to stay engaged with customers and use trends to create content that catches people's attention. I find it difficult, but it's definitely necessary these days. I'm not sure there are any specific accounts that I take inspiration from. For any small, local business like ours, I recommend following your customers first and foremost to see who they're following and what they're posting. It's also important to follow other businesses around you, particularly suppliers and those like-minded organisations that you can collaborate with.
Which other local food businesses/restaurants/cafes do social media well?
As a former designer, I love accounts that nail a solid aesthetic. Even in the short time they've been open, Stone Oven in Devonport has done a great job of turning the physical space they've created into a cohesive brand online and on social media. Kinship does a great job too – you can really feel every bit of the personality of the business, and it shines through on their Instagram feed, which is hard to get right. On a slightly grander scale, Duck Island executes beautifully on who they are as a business; you immediately get a feel for them as a brand the moment you hit their feed.
Favourite thing on your menu and why?
Not that I'm allowed to have a favourite… BUT if I had to name a couple, I think we do a pretty good classic chilli margarita, the buffalo wings are great, and the pepperoni pizza, though unconventional, is a great local favourite.
Level 1, 335 Lake Road, Hauraki • haurakisocialclub.co.nz • @haurakisocialclub
Great tips from this well-known barber in Belmont and a variety of other suburbs around the Shore. We recommend Barbershop for kids, too. @barbershopco.nz
We’re long-time fans of XO and love their spaces for hosting groups big and small. Another special place in the Hauraki mix.
@xotakapuna
Looking for quality residential building managers on the Shore? Look no further than this team based in Belmont. @eyefordetail_nz
Adrian Wills
By Kevin O’Leary, General Manager, Business North Harbour
Please keep supporting local
The run of consecutive cuts in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) which we had enjoyed over recent months came to an end in July, with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) keeping the OCR at 3.25 per cent, citing the current global economic uncertainty and the need to keep on top of inflation as two of the key factors in their decision. Most economists had predicted that this was the likely outcome, but many are hopeful that there are more cuts ahead, which the RBNZ has indicated is a possibility in the coming months. Should any further cuts in the OCR materialise, it will be interesting to see how the banks react and just how far they are prepared to lower their mortgage and business loan interest rates in response.
Our local business districts, town and village centres play a vital role in supporting our local communities and our local economies.
With the cost of food, power, Council and water rates still on the increase and economic growth continuing to be a struggle, it’s little wonder that our businesses, like many households, are still doing it tough. Empty commercial premises have become a far too familiar sight in our business communities, with the holy grail of sustained economic recovery still proving to be elusive for too many of our local business operators. Consequently, it remains of paramount importance that, as far as is practicable, each of us continues to support our local businesses as much as we can. Our local business districts, town and village centres play a vital role in supporting our local communities and our local economies. They offer local employment opportunities to local people and offer us all the convenience of local accessibility, which will become even more important when, not if, time of use charging is introduced on our road network.
One-Stop
I fully understand that levels of disposable income have reduced significantly for too many people over recent years and that many household budgets are now tighter than ever, but I would encourage you to keep shopping locally and using locally available services. If you can manage to maintain your support for your local businesses, it will hopefully mean that we won’t see a further increase in the number of commercial premises lying vacant as more businesses weren’t able to survive the extremely difficult economic climate that has already claimed so many.
While our economic recovery remains somewhat laboured, there is a general feeling that the positive economic outlook for the current year, which was in 2024 heralded in the mantra of "survive to 2025'" will come to fruition next year. Please feel free to make your own catchphrase to rhyme with 2026.
While we still search for that holy grail, thanks in advance for your continued support of our local businesses.
businessnh.org.nz
09 968 2222 027 479 9563 kevin@businessnh.org.nz
Whether you’re selling, renting, or upgrading, we make your home stand out.
Cryo Health Solutions: Welcome to a new era of wellness
Channel Mag: Tell us about your background.
Jill Somerville: I graduated in 2003 with a Master's in Physical Therapy from Mount St. Mary’s in Los Angeles. Since then, I've studied a variety of techniques over the years and draw on my multi-modal practice in treating patients. I first became interested in cryotherapy in 2016 after my husband and I tried it for the first time, for overall wellness. The benefits of cryotherapy made perfect sense to me, and I found that it naturally complemented the manual and hands-on work that I practise as a physical therapist.
What's your approach?
A strong hands-on approach! Using my wide base of knowledge and passionate advocacy for each patient’s wellbeing, I ensure all patients experience the most effective and positive rehabilitation at our state-of-the-art Takapuna clinic. It's a beautiful, calm space, packed full of the latest in cutting-edge technologies to help clients on their journey to optimum health and wellness.
What exactly is cryo?
Cryotherapy is a non-invasive, hyper-cooling process that exposes clients to cold, dry air for up to three minutes, promoting natural healing at a cellular level. The extreme cold triggers a systemic anti-inflammatory response and can be used in many ways, including whole-body exposure for therapeutic health benefits, or locally to treat a variety of skin or deeper tissue issues, and is often used to prevent or relieve muscle pain, sprains and swelling after soft tissue damage or surgery. Although relatively new to New Zealand, it's been used for decades to accelerate recovery in top athletes, and is now accessible to all to provide benefit for many issues for all kinds of people and their specific needs.
What services do you offer?
At Cryo Health Solutions, we address physical, physiological and emotional stressors that can lead to dis-ease or chronic conditions, and my team and I have additional training in exercise prescription, healthy ageing and nutrition, which means better overall results for our clients. We offer a wide range of services: cryotherapy, infrared sauna, oxygen therapy, vitamin IV Infusions, red light therapy, cryo T-shock fat freezing treatments, compression therapy, chiropractic and celluma face LED light therapy for a variety of issues, including pain relief, healing, health, wellbeing and anti-ageing.
What's the 'why' for you?
Helping clients to simply 'be well'. That's it! We are committed to helping our clients achieve wellness inside and out with services that aid injury recovery, stress management, and so much more. Make an appointment to see us for whole body cryotherapy, local cryotherapy, cryotherapy beauty treatments, infrared saunas and physical therapy. Or just pop in for a chat, and I can advise you on all the amazing therapies and treatments we offer, and how they can help you achieve optimal health and wellness.
Cryo Health Solutions: Committed to helping you achieve wellness inside and out, with services that aid in injury recovery, stress management, and so much more.
Cryo Health Solutions
- cutting edge technologies for health and wellness 66 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 0141 info@cryohealthsolutions.com cryohealthsolutions.com facebook @cryohealthnz instagram @CryoHealthNZ
Founder Jill Somerville is a dedicated, thoughtful, passionate, intuitive physical therapist professional who has been practising in her field for 20+ years. Channel Mag chats with Jill at her beautiful Takapuna studio located at Barrys Point Road.
Jill Somerville
The journey inward: Where travel becomes transformation
In a world that rarely pauses, true luxury is taking time to breathe, connect and reset. At Quay Travel, we’re seeing a growing desire for journeys that nourish the mind, body and soul. From jungle hideaways in Bali to medical-grade healing in Thailand, today’s wellness escapes are personal, immersive, and transformative.
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary
One of Asia’s most respected holistic wellness retreats, Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, offers tailored programmes designed around stress, burnout, sleep enhancement and emotional balance. Set on the coastline of Koh Samui, Thailand, Kamalaya embraces traditional Eastern healing and contemporary luxury that allows guests the chance to reconnect with themselves.
Como Shambhala Estate
Tucked into the Balinese jungle near Ubud, Como Shambhala Estate is one of the world’s leading holistic wellness destinations. Daily yoga, ayurvedic treatments, nutritionist-designed menus, and riverside therapies come together to create a retreat where wellbeing is at the core of your experience.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
RAKxa
For a more medical-meetsmindful experience, RAKxa offers a fully integrative approach to wellness. Their original property is located in the lush, green island of Bang Krachao, Thailand. Here, guests are guided towards wholeness through a unique fusion of advanced diagnostics and ancient healing therapies that aim to achieve harmony between the body and mind. Expanding their philosophy to Europe, RAKxa at Castelfalfi brings wellness expertise to Tuscany. In collaboration with the Castelfalfi estate, this new offering provides a curated spa experience enriched with Thai wellness wisdom and Italian serenity.
The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan offers a soulful immersion into Balinese healing and hospitality. With sunrise meditation, sacred river rituals, and spa treatments inspired by local tradition, the experience is both grounding and uplifting and is set within a lush river valley sanctuary.
Whether you’re seeking stillness, healing or a fresh perspective, let us craft a wellness journey that meets you where you are.
QUAY - travel connects us
Your North Shore travel agency, specialising in all things luxury 2/49 Apollo Drive, Mairangi Bay 09 477 0212, info@quaytravel.co.nz quaytravel.co.nz
Travel Connects Us - QUAY
The importance of a well-fitting bra
Wearing a properly fitted bra is essential, not only for comfort and support but also for enhancing the way your clothes fit and feel. A great bra does more than support; it complements your overall shape and style, helping you feel confident throughout your day.
At Rich Lingerie, we offer a personalised fitting service designed to help you find the perfect bra for your body and lifestyle. We take the time to listen to your preferences and ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your choice. Our goal is to make sure you’re happy with how your bra feels and looks under your clothing.
We carry a broad selection of bra styles including full cup, side support, balcony, t-shirt, strapless, and wire-free options. Our size range includes cup sizes from C to LL and band sizes from 6 to 30…
We understand that bra fittings can sometimes feel daunting, which is why we strive to create a welcoming, relaxed, and enjoyable experience for every customer who walks through our doors.
Our extensive range of sizes and styles means we can cater to a wide variety of body shapes and preferences. For example, we often assist customers with narrow shoulders and have learned which styles offer the best fit and support in these cases.
We carry a broad selection of bra styles including full cup, side support, balcony, t-shirt, strapless, and wire-free options. Our size range includes cup sizes from C to LL and band sizes from 6 to 30, ensuring that every customer can find something that suits them.
Rich Lingerie proudly stocks high-quality bras from trusted brands such as Elomi, Goddess, Fantasie, Freya, and more. One of our most popular choices is the Elomi Morgan full cup bra, known for its exceptional support, comfort, and beautiful colour options. It’s available in sizes 10–24 and cup sizes DD–LL.
Other customer favourites from Elomi include:
• Matilda – a semi-sheer plunge bra offering both support and style,
• Sachi – a unique and eye-catching design,
• Energise – a versatile sports bra often worn daily,
• Smooth – a t-shirt bra that provides a sleek silhouette with excellent support.
Goddess offers both underwired and wire-free bras up to a K cup.
Popular styles include:
• Kiera and Kayla – supportive underwired full cup bras,
• Celeste and Katarina – comfortable wire-free options.
Fantasie specialises in bras with side support, which help create a more defined, narrower shape. Their designs are elegant, supportive, and consistently well-loved. The Rebecca Essentials t-shirt bra is another standout, offering everyday comfort and a flattering fit, especially for those with narrow shoulders.
Freya brings a youthful energy to our collection, with standout t-shirt bras like Idol and Offbeat, which combine style and practicality.
At Rich Lingerie, we believe your bra should be like a trusted friend – supportive, reliable, and always close to your heart.
Lots of wide smiles in Milford
Thanks to everyone who came an enjoyed Build-A-Bear in Milford during the school holidays. The response was amazing; there was a real buzz in the mall with this activity. It was great to see so many happy children leave Milford with wide smiles and their own personal crafted bear.
Also, congratulations to the winner of the Auckland Botanics Garden Landscaping competition run in the Milford centre mall, Lea France. I am sure she will be amazed and very happy with their new design.
Mercedes-Benz North Shore Taupo Track Day Promotion
By the time you read this column, the winner will have been announced and only have a few days before taking up their prize. They will be staying overnight at the Hilton Taupo and have a day at Taupo International Motorsport Park, test driving the latest MercedesBenz models. Thanks to Mercedes-Benz North Shore for providing this wonderful opportunity.
We hope you enjoyed the ‘set’ we produced in conjunction with Benefitz, publishers of this fine magazine. The promotion leant itself to creating something different with the Mercedes-Benz North Shore display in the centre court and added a bit of theatrics to it. Watch out for our next one.
Win in Milford’s August Ski Turoa promo
Well, August is in the height of the Ski season, so we have teamed up with Pure Turoa and come up with a fantastic package. You’ll get four 2-Day Ski passes (training provided if required) on the newly opened Turoa Ski field, plus travel there in a new GLE Mercedes-Benz and spend two nights at the Powderhorn Chateau in Ohakune.
Come and see the ‘set’ for this promo from Wednesday 6th August and enter to win. Our partners at Benefitz have come up with another ski-themed design and local businesses The Roof Rack Shop and Ballistics Wave & Snow have kitted out the Mercedes-Benz 4x4 SUV range with all the accessories you need for your skiing adventures.
Wet Weather – No Problem shopping in MILFORD!
Gee, haven’t we had a lot of wet weather lately. Well, you can still come shopping in Milford as we have over 400 covered car parks under the Milford Centre. Recently, I came to the mall on one such day and was amazed at how busy it was. So, there’s a little tip!
Have a great August.
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
Your monthly update from Murray Hill, Manager of Milford Business Association.
All-new Haval H6 Hybrid Delivers more oOOoH
From $42,990 + ORC
Formulated and engineered with safety, tech, economy and a sleek design, the all new Haval H6 HEV is built for a better driving experience and delivers more features than ever before.
GWM North Shore
16 Fred Thomas Drive
Takapuna, Auckland 0622
gwmnorthshore.co.nz 09 442 3306
Every Haval H6 Hybrid features:
• 1.5L Turbocharged Hybrid engine
• 14.6″ Colour Touchscreen Infotainment
• 19” Alloy Wheels
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• 360 Around View Camera
• Roof Rails
• Wireless charging Test drive today at GWM North Shore.
From desert sands to Aegean shores
By Mary Buckley, owner – Shore Travel
Our July escape kicked off with a vibrant 24-hour stopover in dazzling Dubai. We packed in the highlights – ascending the iconic Burj Khalifa, exploring the massive Dubai Mall, and embarking on a thrilling desert safari. From camel rides to quad biking, dune bashing and sunset sand surfing, it was the ultimate taste of adventure.
We stayed at the Sofitel Jumeirah Beach, ideally located for beach access and dining. The heat was intense (think 41°C!), but with plenty of chilled water and enthusiastic guides, it was an unforgettable start to our holiday.
Next, we headed to Spain for six sun-soaked nights on the island of Ibiza. Our first three nights were based in Ibiza Town, where we danced the night away at Ushuaïa’s epic Calvin Harris party and took a dreamy day trip to the postcard-perfect island of Formentera. Then we retreated to the peaceful Catalonia Resort in Santa Eulària des Riu for three days of poolside relaxation. A hire car gave us the freedom to explore hidden beaches and charming towns – driving was easy, and parking was a breeze with a little planning.
Then it was off to Rome, where we explored the 'eternal city' under the blazing Mediterranean sun. We stayed at the Glam Hotel – perfectly located and stylishly comfortable, with a breakfast that fuelled us through busy days. A highlight was our early morning Vatican tour (yes, still busy at 8am!) followed by a breathtaking climb up the Dome (tough in 36-degree heat but absolutely worth it for the panoramic views) and Colosseum, where we opted for a self-guided audio tour – perfect for the summer temperatures.
Our adventure wrapped up with a seven-night MSC cruise aboard MSC Divina, taking in Mykonos, Ephesus (via Kusadasi), Santorini and Naples. The itinerary was stunning – waking up to these iconic destinations each morning never gets old. The onboard experience offered great entertainment, standout specialty dining (loved the Japanese and steakhouse options), and some lively themed nights like the white party and silent disco. My tip? Book the Yacht Club experience for added comfort and exclusive access to cruise events.
From the golden dunes of Dubai to the party and peace of Ibiza, the rich history of Rome, and the sun-drenched Greek Isles – this journey had it all. If you're dreaming of a summer packed with culture, adventure and crystalblue seas, Shore Travel would love to help you make it happen!
Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
FREE EXPO TRAVEL INFORMATION EVENING Tuesday 12 August 5.30pm - 7.30pm
Join us for an inspiring evening showcasing the world of travel from luxury cruises and river journeys to rail expeditions and guided tours across every continent.
Do you get a sharp twinge when drinking something hot or breathing in cold air? You’re not alone. Winter often amplifies tooth sensitivity, even in otherwise healthy mouths, but you don’t have to just put up with it.
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the inner layer of the tooth (dentine) becomes exposed. This can result from gum recession, enamel erosion, clenching, overbrushing, acidic foods, or even certain whitening products. Cold air and hot drinks trigger pain by stimulating the nerve channels inside your teeth.
At Mint Dental Hygiene, we focus on identifying the underlying cause before recommending treatment. Often, it’s a combination of factors, so simply switching to a new toothpaste may not be enough. We offer Sylc powder polishing, a high-tech air-polishing treatment using Novamin (calcium and phosphate particles), which seals exposed dentine instantly. This provides immediate relief and continues working after your visit. It’s only available in select clinics across New Zealand. We also apply professional desensitising pastes, containing active ingredients like calcium phosphate or potassium nitrate, to help strengthen and protect sensitive areas, especially following deeper cleaning or whitening.
Home care that helps
• Use desensitising toothpastes* such as Sensodyne, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief or Pronamel. These contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which help block nerve signals and reduce discomfort over time. Consistent use is key for results.
• Switch to soft-bristled brushes and brushing with a light touch to avoid further enamel or gum damage.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks like citrus, sparkling water, and fruit teas, which wear down enamel over time.
• Try fluoride-free alternatives if you're reactive to standard pastes. We’ll help you choose a safe, effective option.
• Wear a night guard if clenching is contributing to your discomfort, especially if sensitivity is worse in the morning.
• Sip warm (not hot) water from an insulated bottle to avoid sudden temperature shocks during winter.
If cold mornings are making your teeth ache, let’s fix it. Sensitivity can usually be managed, and relief starts with a personalised hygiene assessment.
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Smarter hearing aids: How AI is changing the way we hear
It might sound futuristic, but artificial intelligence (AI) is already at work in many modern hearing aids. These devices don’t just make sounds louder – they help make sense of the world around you, so you can hear more clearly and naturally than ever before.
AI in hearing aids refers to computer-based learning systems that process sound. A key advancement is the use of deep neural networks (DNNs), a form of AI inspired by the human brain. These systems are trained on thousands of real-life listening situations. That means your hearing aids can better distinguish between a noisy café and a quiet living room, and adjust automatically to suit each environment.
Designed to hear what you want: Noisy settings are often the most challenging for people with hearing loss. Traditional hearing aids amplify all sounds, including background noise. AI-powered devices do things differently. They focus on what you want to hear, like speech, and reduce what you don’t, such as traffic or clattering dishes. Some can even learn from your preferences over time. Many newer hearing aids can now respond in real time, adapting to your surroundings, movement and listening needs. This makes sound feel more natural, less effortful and less tiring to follow.
A glimpse of the future: As AI continues to develop, we’re likely to see even more intelligent hearing technology. Features like fall detection, language translation and health tracking are already being explored in some models. Future models could become wearable companions that support not just your hearing but your well-being too.
Curious about AI-powered hearing aids? We’re always happy to talk you through the latest technology and what might suit your needs. Book an appointment to learn more – no robots required!
Pronto Movers – trusted, professional, local
Moving made easy, whether you are moving locally or across the country
- Pronto Movers can tailor a solution suited to your needs.
When it comes to moving, the North Shore trusts Pronto Movers for fast, reliable and stress-free service. Backed by years of experience and countless 5-star reviews, our friendly team takes pride in handling every job with care, respect and efficiency. Whether you're moving across town or relocating further afield, we offer tailored solutions, honest pricing, and a hands-on approach that puts your needs first. From expert packing to smooth coordination, we make moving feel easy.
Why choose Pronto Movers
• Professional and reliable
Our team shows up on time, every time - no surprises, no delays. We treat every job, big or small, with precision and care.
• Customer-focused service
Known for being friendly, respectful, and easy to work with. We listen, adapt, and go the extra mile to ensure your move is stress-free
• Expert packing and handling
We use smart spatial thinking and protective techniques to pack efficiently and move safely. Your belongings are handled like our own - with care and attention to detail.
• Transparent and honest pricing
No hidden costs, no surprises - just fair, upfront pricing. We provide quotes tailored to your specific needs.
• Experienced local team
We know Auckland and the North Shore inside-out - navigating local logistics, narrow streets, and home, apartment, and office moves with ease. Our team brings years of combined moving experience to every job.
• Fast turnaround
Need to move on short notice? We’re known for efficient, fast service without compromising quality.
• Highly rated by locals
Backed by dozens of 5-star reviews - our reputation speaks for itself. Many of our clients are repeat customers or referrals.
• Flexible moving solutions
Residential, commercial, long-distance, partial moves - we handle it all. We’re happy to work in stages if needed and accommodate unique requirements.
SPECIAL OFFER for Channel Mag readers
Book one month early and save 10% Contact Antonio and the team for details, terms and conditions.
Edgecity Builders: Living and working in their community
In this issue of Channel we have a focus on building and renovation. It is very fitting that we are also featuring one of our local building companies, which places a strong emphasis on giving back to its community and industry. That business is Edgecity Builders, who are celebrating 25 years of business over the next 12 months.
Edgecity Builders is owned and passionately operated by Takapuna identities, and husband and wife team, Nick Farrelly and Sharon Boyd. They are long-time residents of Takapuna and have their business based close by in the Wairau area. They are proud to be living and working in their community.
The day I popped in to their Wairau Valley factory for a chat, it was ‘grandson Thursday’ – the day of the week when Nick and Sharon look forward to the task of looking after their 17-month-old grandson, Carter. He loves poppa's toys at the factory!
Edgecity Builders specialises in high-end residential new builds, renovations and light commercial.
Nick and Edgecity Builders are members of the New Zealand Certified Builders Association, founded 26 years ago. Nick was an inaugural member. 26 years on, Nick is the Chair of the association that has offices in Wellington, Christchurch and a National Support Office in Tauranga.
Nick clearly has a focus on industry leadership and ensuring standards are high.
“I am proud of the leadership role we play in New Zealand Certified Builders Association. The association provides business support to members and their apprentices, and is the only builder association in the country where the minimum entry requirement is a recognised trade qualification in carpentry.”
Accordingly, Edgecity only employs trade qualified builders and provides pathways for all, with two former Westlake Boys High School students currently being trained as apprentices by the firm.
“At Edgecity, we are supported by many business partners, merchants and suppliers, and in turn this enables us to provide leadership which includes supporting the likes of ‘MATES in Construction’ who give back to the sector,” adds Nick. “We had a recent morning ‘smoko’ that provided the opportunity for MATES in Construction’s Slade MacFarland, who’s well known on the Shore, to chat to the crew on one site and have them take time to complete a survey to help the industry.”
MATES in Construction is a national organisation with one simple aim – to reduce the number of lives lost to suicide in the construction industry. In 2019, construction had the highest male suicide rate for any occupational group.
By Aidan Bennett
Nick and Sharon’s support extends beyond their industry into the community. They are both active members of the North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust (annual AIMES Youth Awards), and they have also supported and sponsored highly ranked New Zealand BMX racer Leila Walker since 2014.
In recent times two local projects they have been involved with have warmed their hearts. These were the construction of the ‘Whare’ at Westlake Girls' High School, and assisting Abilities Group after the wellpublicised fire that resulted in the devastating loss of their Hillside Road premises early this year.
Whare at Westlake Girls High School
Edgecity has been assisting Westlake Girls High School (WGHS) with building maintenance and repairs work for a decade. It’s work they love doing.
During the Covid lockdown period, Nick and Sharon took the opportunity to qualify as Ministry of Education approved contractors, enabling them to tender for larger projects as part of the government public sector procurement process. This led to them winning a WGHS gymnasium weather tightness remediation project and a sports department refurbishment project for work that commenced in 2022.
“We were thrilled to get these projects, which led to us then tendering and winning another very special project at WGHS,” said Sharon. “This was to build their new ‘Whare’ – their Māori meeting house. For us this was a start of a wonderful journey of working closely with a range of entities and people, to bring this new facility to life.
“The WGHS Whare was formerly known as M9, a classroom within the music block. The task was to transform the classroom into a Whare, removing all the existing flat roof structure and re-pitching it with a steep-pitched roofline. We enlarged the existing concrete
Edgecity Builders premises in the Wairau Valley, North Shore
Nick Farrelly and Sharon Boyd
foundation to extend the footprint. There were then some solid timber laminated beams running along the spine of the building which cantilevered out to create the front entrance.
“The project was led by WGHS and the Ministry of Education, it was designed by Houston Architects, and included a project management team from Octa. Our Edgecity team worked closely with this group to bring the project to life. Fortnightly meetings were held to ensure we met all the build aspects of the contract and together all cultural aspects were met.
“We always said this was not just another build,” adds Sharon. “What we helped to create was a well-used community and school facility which will be a landmark for the future.”
Sharon says they engaged with Matua Hudson of the school very early on. Mr Eddie Hudson is WGHS Head of Department for Te Reo Māori.
“Nick and I understood Matua Hudson’s vision some years in advance, which was to have a Whare within the school. When we were awarded the tender, we invited Matua Hudson to our Edgecity base to present to our crew on the cultural journey for our build project. We were then invited to the dawn service for the soil turning before construction commenced. The build started in June 2024 and was completed in February 2025. The official opening was a very special event held on Wednesday 7 May this year.”
WGHS Head Prefect, Julia Wilkins, had this to say about their new Whare at the opening: “This is a place of relevance. A place of love. And it’s just become even more special. Here is where cultures can come together. Where respect can flourish. Where we can feel the heart of Westlake, thumping proudly through the earth.”
WGHS Whare Head Prefect, Anahera Petera, included this in her address: “This Whare is so much more than a classroom, it shapes rangatahi. It gives them purpose. A place to be themselves. A sense of belonging. Te manawa o hinekahukura. The beating heart of our school.”
At the completion of the project Matua Eddie Hudson voiced his satisfaction with the part Edgecity played. “It has been such a cool journey having Edgecity involved with the project. Right from the start their passion and commitment was evident from the invitation to their business, presenting a power point which expressed the meaning, importance, and function our Whare Āhuru Mōwai (Place of Shelter) was to have for Westlake Girls High School.”
WGHS principal Jane Stanley had this to say about the efforts of Edgecity: “Nick, Sharon and all at Edgecity Builders, from day one through to completion, your passion and care for our Whare has been evident in everything you have done. It has been a privilege to work with you. Thank you.”
Sharon says that these community/school projects are more than just structures, our grandchildren can be told Edgecity built them.
The Whare is now in use by the school with all cultural art and carvings to follow.
Helping in Abilities Group’s recovery
During May, Nick and Sharon were approached by an industry partner and friend, Lance Spalding, to see if Edgecity were able to provide assistance following the Abilities Group fire. Abilities had been donated a building in a neighbouring street to the home of
Edgecity and they needed 21 tables to be built to enable their staff to return to work – their place of community and belonging.
Nick and Sharon reached out to their New Zealand Certified Builders Association ‘extended family’ as an opportunity to network whilst working together on a voluntary community project. It was a plan that resonated with the members as well as many other suppliers and supporters.
Materials were donated by Mitre 10 Wairau, facilitated by Roz Harvey of Mitre 10 Trade, lunch was supplied by Hirepool (thanks to Shaun Owen, Marketing Manager) using their Sizzle Shack, morning tea was supplied by Hillside ITM (Des Smith), and staff care packs were donated by Bunnings Trade Glenfield.
“It was heartwarming to see our building industry community come together,” said Nick. “We colour-coded a material cut sheet and drew the table plans enabling the build crew to work fast and efficiently on the day, and to minimise waste. We set up a working space within Abilities Group’s new premises with cut stations and work stations.
“Volunteers turned up on Saturday 14 June for an 8am start. The day commenced with a health and safety and general briefing, then worked commenced with me being one of the two project managers for the day. I was assisted by Peter Headland (also NZCB) assigning cut stations and roles for the day. We had qualified builders, a ‘rusty hammer’ (a retired NZCB member!), facilitators, merchant partners and Abilities staff and families throughout the day.
“It was a fantastic day that was enjoyed by everyone who took part, with lots of fun and banter and great networking. A highlight was when staff, families and build crew shared lunch together. This was also an opportunity for all to share some words of their own on what the day meant to them. Thanks were provided by Abilities Group, explaining what having tables in their new workplace meant for them.”
As Channel Mag was completing this issue the crews returned to Abilities Group for their community ‘thank you’ morning tea.
At a time when the building industry is in recovery it is great to see people like Sharon and Nick still loving what they’re doing and giving back in many different ways.
Contact Nick and Sharon at Edgecity Builders
3d Target Court
Wairau Valley, North Shore, Email: office@edgecitybuilders.co.nz or Phone: 0275 821369
Visit: edgecitybuilders.co.nz
Matua Eddie Hudson outside the completed Westlake Girls Whare
Nick and Sharon with MC Petra Bagust at the NZ Certified Builders conference in June
The team involved helping with the Abilities Group table project
Warm, dry and comfortable homes
Tips for successful building alterations and renovations from an expert
By Christine Young
Peter Wolfkamp is well known as the “Resident Builder” on Newstalk ZB, he built a profile as the site foreman on the now-departed The Block NZ on TV3, and is a highly regarded speaker on pretty much anything to do with the building trade. He lives in Devonport and has not only worked on other people’s houses but also renovated one or two of his own. Who better to interview then, when Channel was looking for advice on approaching a DIY renovation, alteration, restoration or new build? Christine Young hears what she should have done when she renovated her home.
Peter is no longer “on the tools” as much as he was, and says he’s now focused on reading and developing his knowledge of “building literacy”. He’s keen to introduce ideas around better building science to the general public. Building science? That may sound daunting, but it’s something all of us should think about as we plunge into whatever DIY project we think will improve our homes.
Is your first consideration the aesthetics of the finished result, or core issues of energy efficiency? “If you’re going to work on your home,” says Peter, “you should focus on it being energy efficient, and making it more warm, dry and comfortable rather than just on the aesthetics.”
He’s concerned that too much focus goes on how a house looks, ahead of its performance. There are challenges in renovating any house, he notes, and even if you decide to insulate where there’s previously been no insulation, you can inadvertently make matters worse: done wrong, walls can become saturated, and the inside of the house ooze mould. Well, maybe not quite. But the point he’s making is that you need to be aware of the latest technology and get good advice.
“There’s lots of good literature around on building science,” he says, strongly advocating that anyone considering a renovation should head to their computer before they pick up a hammer. BRANZ (Building Research Association of New Zealand) publishes a series of articles and fact sheets available to any DIYer on www.branz.co.nz/pubs. The Superhome movement, of which Peter is a
supporter, is a charitable trust made up of architects, designers, engineers, builders, trades, and suppliers, who share the aim of helping people live in “better, healthier, more energy-efficient, and environmentallyfriendly homes”. Superhome focuses on “reducing the effect of poor housing on the environment and improving the health of our communities”; to this end it publishes material available to the general public, including webinar guides relevant to both new
builds and renovations, for building better and more sustainably (www.superhome. co.nz/superhome-webinars). And Peter’s own website and You Tube channel have blog posts on anything from insulation to painting and general building, as well as on products that advance his ethos of building better and more sustainably.
“If you have your own home,” Peter also advises, don’t wait until major work is required. “Set aside time for maintenance,
Peter Wolfkamp, encouraging homeowners to balance DIY with good building advice
which often doesn’t get done.” Maintenance delayed simply leads to more significant projects to tackle.
Maintenance or major project, Peter suggests research to ensure you know what work you can do without needing a Building Consent. Make sure you know what you can and can’t do. This is all controlled by the Building Act. A “reasonable amount of work” can be done by DIYers, Peter says, primarily maintenance and minor repairs, but you should check the ins and outs in Schedule 1 of the Act. And while Peter encourages anyone to be active in their renos or new builds, he warns that amateurs need to be aware of their limitations. “Understand how much skill you have,” he advises, and whether you have the equipment or knowledge to make the job a success. He cites a small job he did (repairing a fence), that required an impressive list of gear, including skillsaws, batteries, extension cords, drills, ladders, and more – all of which he has, but which many home owners do not. And while you learn from mistakes, mistakes in a building project can be costly.
“If you’ve built up a garage full of tools and equipment, that great” – and even better, if you’re prepared to share with, or can borrow from, family, friends or neighbours. But if you don’t have the skills or access to gear, he advocates for sweat equity, working alongside your builder: “Talk to your builder about helping prep the site, dealing with the waste, etcetera. That helps reduce costs.”
Oh, and another barrier for the uninitiated is that even work you can do without a building consent needs to be done to the Building Code. Peter quotes a daunting number of calculations required for the specs and spacing of piles, joists and bearers even for a small deck, and references the New Zealand Standard for timber framed buildings (www.standards.govt.nz/shop/nzs36042011) but notes that while homeowners can look all this up, it’s not always straightforward.
“I find myself in tension between wanting to encourage people to do what I love, but I add a note of caution: there is skill involved… and it takes a long time to build that knowledge and experience.” He’s spent
decades developing the expertise he is now able to apply and pass on. But even small jobs are not always as simple as they look. He suggests that having a good relationship with your builder can be a valuable way to balance your enthusiasm with the builder’s experience.
An anecdote illustrates the point: At one stage, he worked on a deck addition in which he did the piles, bearers and joists. The homeowner was taking over from there, ordering the decking timber and rounding up a group of mates to help to nail it down. The budding deck builder rang Peter when the timber arrived; it was poor quality. Peter says the home owner had gone for the cheapest option, one he (Peter) would never have ordered in the first place. Peter, fortunately, was able to access appropriate timber at short notice, in time for the planned working bee.
The most successful projects are those where the designer, builder and customer collaborate.
“I’m a big fan of engaging with your builder early on if you’re planning renovations or additions,” he says. “Someone with experience can add practicality to a project.” He’s also a great fan of collaboration between your designer or architect and your builder from the start, rather than taking your plans to the builder after they are complete, when suggestions from the builder about some of the practical aspects (including cost) may require a change of design or materials. “The most successful projects are those where the designer, builder and customer collaborate.”
But back to where our conversation started, with building science and sustainability. In any new build or renovation, Peter says that getting the insulation, ventilation and extraction right is “really, really important…. There is a science to how
buildings perform. The danger is in only looking at the aesthetics and not at how a building works.
“If you are about to do a renovation or alteration, focus on [ensuring your home is] warm, dry and comfortable. Use BRANZ and Superhome and the Homestar tool.” (In addition to being a Licensed Building Practitioner, Peter is a New Zealand Green Building Council Homestar practitioner.)
The Homestar tool, he says, allows anyone to enter information about their house (old or new) to assess its Homestar rating, a measure of additional performance and sustainability requirements above and beyond the New Zealand Building Code, which he and many others believe is woefully inadequate.
Peter’s advocacy of the need for warm, dry, sustainable housing is based on both environmental and very real health benefits. “Getting buildings right is often about the small things,” he says – well-fitted insulation, good vapour control, well-fitted windows properly sealed, high-performance joinery, the placement and orientation of windows, as well as shading to manage temperatures inside the house. In addition, solar panels, especially if combined with a storage battery, offer cost savings and sustainability benefits. Ditto rainwater retention or detention tanks, now commonly required to cope with excess stormwater runoff, but also advantageous in making savings on the ever-increasing cost of water.
“Houses are there to serve us, yet New Zealand has a history of poor quality housing resulting in poor health outcomes. The challenge for homeowners is that [unlike in rented homes] there is no law about meeting Healthy Homes standards.”
When planning your renovation, take Peter’s advice, take a long-term view of your home, and aim for “better buildings that use less energy and generate less waste”.
“Kiwis have a DIY attitude, and want their buildings to be simple and straightforward. But buildings are complex interconnected structures. When you get it right, you have a fantastic place; get it wrong and it’s cold drafty and damp. I’ve seen how improving cold, damp, mouldy houses improves family health. All these things can be fixed.”
Peter Wolfkamp in his workshop
An automated pool cover ready for spring and summer!
The warmer months are just around the corner, so it’s probably time to order your new automated cover to keep the warmth in and get the most out of your pool.
A swimming pool spells fun for everyone. Adding an automated pool cover can extend that fun to throughout the year. An automated pool cover makes things super easy – minimising maintenance, as well as keeping it warm, clean and affordable.
Covers4Pools is a family business, run by Charles, Paulene and Shayne Olliver. They offer one of the most extensive ranges of automated pool covers in New Zealand, being the sole distributor for the internationally popular Coverstar Eclipse brand.
“Coverstar Eclipse covers can take the weight of an average sized person, offering peace of mind that your family is always safe around your pool,” says company manager Charles Olliver.
“Our new ‘Roll Out Roll Under' Slatted' cover has quickly become a big seller for us," he adds. "These covers feature a polycarbonate profile that actually heats the pool via the sun’s rays throughout the summer months and retains heat during the colder months, therefore extending your swimming season and substantially reducing your heating costs. We are proud to assemble these covers here in New Zealand.”
Charles also explains that automated covers also play a big part in reducing cleaning and maintenance by keeping unwanted items out of the pool. “They really are a game-changer. Our advanced covers keep dirt and leaves out of the pool and also eliminate up to 90% of evaporation. This avoids wasting thousands of litres of water and reduces chemical use by up to 70%.”
Covers4Pools has good stocks of both Coverstar Eclipse covers and Roll Out Roll Under Slatted covers so will have one to suit your pool. They will come to your property and do a free measure and quote and provide advice on the best solution for your requirements.
Do it today!
Contact Charles, Paulene or Shayne today. They will make it very easy and affordable.
Charles: 021 66 3854, Paulene: 027 663 8605
Shayne: 021 023 73214
Phone 09-426-0625, email sales@autopoolcovers.co.nz or visit covers4pools.co.nz
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
Tips for selling in the cold, wet winter months
Selling your home in the heart of winter can feel like a challenge, but with the right strategy, you can still attract serious buyers and achieve a great result. In fact, winter often brings more motivated purchasers and less competition from other listings, giving your home a chance to shine.
First impressions count, especially on grey days. Ensure your home’s exterior is clean, tidy and well-lit. Clear gutters, sweep paths, and add some colour with winter-hardy potted plants near the entrance to create an inviting welcome.
Inside, focus on warmth and light. Turn on heating well before open homes so the space feels cosy and dry. Use lamps to brighten dark corners and consider pulling back curtains even on cloudy days. If your home has a fireplace or underfloor heating, highlight these desirable winter features.
…price and marketing are key. Choose a skilled agent who understands winter selling and can tailor your campaign to attract the right buyers. Quality photography, especially with warm lighting, can make your home stand out even on stormy days.
Buyers spend more time inside during colder months, so attention to detail is vital. Eliminate damp smells with ventilation and dehumidifiers, use soft furnishings to add comfort, and make sure windows are clean to maximise natural light.
Finally, price and marketing are key. Choose a skilled agent who understands winter selling and can tailor your campaign to attract the right buyers. Quality photography, especially with warm lighting, can make your home stand out even on stormy days.
Selling in winter may require a little extra effort, but it’s absolutely possible to achieve a strong sale.
Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. She is an active Milford Cruising Club member. She works hard for her clients, driven by a sense of duty to provide a high level of service. She holds a Master's 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
唯一 华 人中介@ Bayleys Takapuna
Small fixes, big gains:
By Steve Deacon
Smarter plumbing for Kiwi homes
When upgrading your home, it's easy to focus on what you can see: new cabinetry, splashy tiles, or fresh paint. But often, the biggest gains come from what’s behind the scenes – your plumbing.
… even small issues like drips, weak pressure, or outdated water heaters can cost you over time. Left unchecked, these can lead to serious damage, and serious bills.
In Aotearoa, where shifting weather and mineral-rich water are hard on plumbing systems, even small issues like drips, weak pressure, or outdated water heaters can cost you over time. Left unchecked, these can lead to serious damage, and serious bills.
Planning a reno? It’s the perfect chance to future-proof your plumbing. Upgrading to an energy-efficient hot water heat pump or modern pipework can cut energy costs, boost performance, and give you peace of mind. Kitchen or bathroom upgrades are also ideal times to update fixtures and ensure what’s under the surface matches your home’s new look and feel.
Don’t forget the outdoors. Fixing leaking hose taps, checking for hidden leaks, or adding a second outdoor tap or even an outdoor shower can improve both property value and lifestyle.
The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to make a difference. Simple upgrades like pressure-limiting valves or replacing ageing fittings can help avoid costly problems later.
Whether you're renovating or just want things running better, a quick plumbing check can save you stress, water – and money.
Call Seal Plumbing today on 021 797 912 or visit sealplumbing.co.nz to book your upgrade.
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and director at Lake Road Electrical
Smarter, safer homes start with the right electrical upgrades
When we think about upgrading our homes, it's usually the splashy stuff that comes to mind: fresh paint, new kitchens, flash appliances. But it’s what’s behind the walls that can really future-proof your home.
Better systems mean fewer outages, lower power bills, and a setup that works seamlessly with the way you live now.
At Lake Road Electrical, we’re seeing more Kiwi homeowners opting to bring their electrical systems into the 21st century. It’s a smart move; many older homes across the Shore and wider Auckland are still running on ageing switchboards, never designed to handle the demands of heat pumps, EV chargers, or the mountain of tech we rely on daily.
Upgrading your switchboard or rewiring part of your home isn’t just about safety – although that’s a biggie. It’s also about performance and efficiency. Better systems mean fewer outages, lower power bills, and a setup that works seamlessly with the way you live now.
Smaller upgrades can also go a long way. Think extra power points, USB chargers, outdoor sensor lighting, or even dimmable LEDs to create the right vibe. And with smart home tech on the rise, we’re helping more households set up app-controlled lighting and heating for convenience and energy savings.
Winter’s the perfect time to sort outdoor power and lighting too, so your BBQs and backyard hangs are ready to run smoothly from sunset to starlight, whatever the weather.
We’re local, reliable, and always up for a yarn about what’s possible. If you’re thinking of making your home smarter, safer, or simply more suited to modern living, give us a bell.
Lewis Rudall
- your friendly local
electrician
Top tips from Amanda Graham, Newhaven Gardens. North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.
The Savill Garden
This July Amanda was able to visit Windsor Great Park, and one of Britain's greatest ornamental gardens: The Savill Garden, created by Sir Eric Savill in 1932, under commission from King George V.
A considerable garden of 35 acres of woodland and gardens, sitting within the larger Windsor estate, everything here is on a grand scale, starting with a structure of mature oak trees, giant redwoods, and a stunning willow-leaved podocarp amongst other large trees, which provide the backbone to the gardens, separating the garden sections and guiding both pathways and lines of vision.
Mass planting of beds echo the grand scale of the trees, accented by huge swathes of gunnera that swamped us. With our visit being in the northern summer, the beds were awash with colour as a multitude of annuals and perennial flowers took centre stage.
Further in, we were treated to a huge number of gardens within the gardens including the Hidden Gardens, Spring Wood, the Summer Gardens, the New Zealand Garden (which had a great selection of hebes, manuka, coprosma, pseudpanax etc). Later, we were also able to visit the Summer Wood, and The Glades.
The Dry Garden – the first of its kind in the UK – was planted with a Mediterranean feel and tough drought tolerant plants, with conifers, olives, citrus and strawberry trees doing the heavy lifting, giving space to hardy drought tolerant shrubs such as grevillea and lomatia. Xeriscaping is a subject that has become more urgent in both the northern and southern hemispheres as the summers become increasingly dry and harsh.
The award-winning architecture of the visitors' centre fits beautifully; in particular, the grid shell roof, which was created in a modern take of a traditional pavilion roof, but is also mirrored beautifully in the mass plantings of lavender.
It was an absolute pleasure to be able to enjoy such a mature and beautifully designed and kept garden which felt so well balanced and in harmony.
Ōkahukura – Albany is Fletcher Living’s latest North Shore development. Tucked away, this exclusive neighbourhood offers a rare sense of seclusion, elevated from the roadside and surrounded by greenery that enhances its peaceful, retreat-like feel. Discover our moder new 1-5 bedroom homes today.
Priced from $689,000 we have options to suit everyone.
Explore our range of modern new 1-5 bedroom homes today!
Sandy
027 570 1309
Megan Saunders msaunders@frl.co.nz
027 267 9721
There are homes that follow the rules — and those that rewrite them
I work exclusively with clients who see their spaces not as assets, but as art. Those who crave the eccentric, the alchemical, the soulful. Those who are deeply attuned to texture, balance, and symbolism — and who dare to make their homes a mirror of the inner self.
My work is where design intuition meets hands-on expertise — every concept grounded in craft. From hand-sketched ideas to the final polish on a brass inlay, I lead a tightly-knit team that executes each detail with precision and soul. No outsourcing. No diluted ideas. Just one vision, fully realised.
Our team handles everything: layout transformation, material sourcing, structural works, finishes…
My clients speak a language of instinct. They reference sculptural light, burnt timber, velvet walls, meditative spaces, rituals, planets, poetry. And we respond — not with trend decks, but with tailored solutions that are as precise as they are profound.
This is not just about good taste. It’s about resonance.
Our team handles everything: layout transformation, material sourcing, structural works, finishes, and even specialty cabinetry from our own factory. Sustainability and longevity are built in — quietly. Every detail, from acoustics to flow, is designed to hold energy.
As one recent client shared:
"I didn’t just get a new kitchen. I got a new feeling."
If your dream space exists outside the bounds of Pinterest — if it deserves to be made with care, intuition, and wonder — I’d love to listen.
Because I don’t just renovate houses. I translate people into space.
Free consultations by enquiry, contact Nicole 020 4057 3576
Father’s Day is knocking at the door – on Sunday 7 September. It’s a great day, when we celebrate the important role that dads play in our lives. This month we decided to do things a little ‘in-house’ by celebrating four young fathers on the Benefitz team. Benefitz is the business that publishes your monthly Channel Magazine. We interviewed Blake, Dale, Rhys and Wayne – all Shore based dads – about what 7 September will bring for them, what they love most about fatherhood and even their best dad jokes!
Fatherhood, Father’s Day and dad jokes
Wayne’s world has Hope at the centre!
Wayne Brown and his wife Kim (who works in training for an electricity service provider) emigrated to New Zealand about seven years ago and he says through all the ups and downs, their biggest highlight has been welcoming their three-year-old daughter, Hope. Wayne, who manages Benefitz busy signage division, has been in the print and signage industry for over 26 years and outside his day job, he enjoys spending time with his family, camping, and outdoor life.
Channel Mag: What do you love most about being a dad? Has fatherhood changed your perspective on anything in your life?
Wayne Brown: Picking up my daughter Hope from school. She is always happy to see me, always ending a hard day’s work in happiness. The chats we have, and time spent together are priceless.
Fatherhood has changed every part of my life for the better, except my lack of sleep! But that aside, I am privileged to be a dad. The joy Hope brings to my life makes it easy to be a father.
If you look at your favourite characters in popular culture or sport (fictional or real), is there a dad or father figure that you look up to and why? It would have to be Robert De Niro. Both in real life and the movies, he always plays an excellent dad!
How will you celebrate Father's Day this year?
For Father’s Day this year, I plan to try and join a Father’s Day beach clean-up with my daughter Hope, to give a little back to the community, help keep our beaches clean, and show her what good, kind men are supposed to be! Hopefully my family will shout me a dinner out afterwards too!
What’s your best dad joke?
Why was the sand wet? Because the seaweed!
Wayne Brown with wife Kim and daughter Hope
Dale enjoys life outdoors with his boys
Dale Simpson is a production supervisor in the Benefitz signage division. He’s the proud dad of two boys, Dillon (5) and Darcy (3). Dale says he fell into the hands of the Benefitz team when he left the timber joinery and glass industry after 18 years for a new career path. Dale says it was a huge shift. He started as the driver and has worked his way to become a leader in the signage division. Dale and his wife, Danielle, live on a five-acre property just north of the city, with the whole family enjoying the outdoor life together.
Channel Mag: What do you love most about being a dad? Has fatherhood changed your perspective on anything in your life?
Dale Simpson: I love being able to teach Dillon and Darcy new skills, show them new experiences and encourage them to try something new. Since becoming a dad, it has shaped the way we do things as a family.
If you look at your favourite characters in popular culture or sport (fictional or real), is there a dad or father figure that you look up to and why?
I was very fortunate to have many different male role models growing up. A father, uncles, granddads, and close family friends to teach me life skills. All these experiences have helped shape me to who I am today.
How will you celebrate Father's Day this year?
That's a great question and I hope my wife's reading this! A day spent with the family creating new memories. She’d better get planning!
Favourite dad joke?
What did the bison say to his son when he left the ranch? Bye son!
Rhys prioritises time with Lilah and Ryder
Rhys Lloyd is a senior sales account manager at Benefitz. He’s been part of the team for long time, 16 to 17 years. He has two children, Lilah (10) and Ryder (8). Rhys co-parents his children and has them half the time and says both he and their mum make it work, ensuring good communication and putting the kids first. Rhys says that they've embraced suburban life on the Shore with him and rural life with their mum. Sport is a big part of their lives with Saturday mornings now very busy with kids’ activities. Lilah loves horse riding and Rhys says Ryder is a typical boy who just wants to kick a ball around and have fun.
Channel Mag: What do you love most about being a dad? Has Fatherhood changed your perspective on anything in your life?
Rhys Lloyd: I get a real buzz out of watching my kids evolve. Sometimes it’s a bit scary how quick they grow up, but every stage in their life from babies to toddlers, kids and adolescence is a fun new chapter. And yes, it has changed my perspective. I’m pretty sure I’m much more conservative than I was in my twenties!
If you look at your favourite characters in popular culture or sport (fictional or real), is there a dad or father figure that you look up to and why?
I recently listened to a podcast with Grant Fox (All Black legend) and a quote from that really resonated with me: “How do you spell love to your kids? –T.I.M.E”. But the person I try to emulate the most would be my own dad. In my opinion, he is the best dad and has given me the perfect blueprint.
How will you celebrate Father's Day this year?
Hanging out with my kiddies and catching up with extended family. Maybe doing something on the day to make sure Lilah and Ryder are spoiling their dad.
Favourite dad joke?
What vegetable is cool, but not that cool? A rad-ish.
Dale Simpson with wife Danielle and sons Dillon and Darcy
Rhys Lloyd with Ryder and Lilah
Blake looks forward to movie night as much as his kids
Blake Douglas is now a shareholder and leads the sales team at Benefitz. He’s been part of the business for 20 years, starting as the driver and now a key leader. He and his wife Kellie have two children, Rocco (7), and Stevie (almost 5). He says that the kids are at very busy ages but they have a strong support system of friends and family which is a big help, and they prioritise their own family traditions and routine.
Channel Mag: What do you love most about being a dad? Has Fatherhood changed your perspective on anything in your life?
Blake Douglas: I love our weekend routines we have as a family. Beach walks and fun family activities in the afternoon, movie nights etc. It’s hard to remember life prekids, but I guess I had more time and less grey hair! I love our weekends, usually starting with pizza Friday nights, Saturday morning beach walk and Sunday family movie night. I reckon I look forward to the movie nights just as much as the kids. The change in perspective is probably slowing down to enjoy the smaller moments.
If you look at your favourite characters in popular culture or sport (fictional or real), is there a dad or Father figure that you look up to and why?
I don’t really have an answer for this but Phil Dunphy from Modern Family does make me laugh!
How will you celebrate Father's Day this year?
Hopefully I will have a round of golf with mates who are also dads and then spend the
afternoon with the family… We'll probably have Sunday movie night because we love our routines!
Favourite dad joke?
Why did the gym close down? It just didn’t
It’s hard to remember life pre-kids, but I guess I had more time and less grey hair!
Stevie, Kellie, Blake and Rocco Douglas
Bridgestone Tyre Centre Target Road celebrates 20 years of tyres
Back in 2005, Craig Biddulph started up the Bridgestone Tyre Centre at 144 Target Road to help serve customers of North Shore Toyota, owned by the Jago family. Over the past 20 years, the business has significantly grown under Craig’s effective management, even though the store has no road frontage, and you need to know where to go to find them down the lane next to North Shore Toyota. That’s surely a sign of a great business when new customers are making the effort to seek you out!
Craig joined us to talk about this significant anniversary.
What do you think has been the biggest contributor to 20 successful years?
We wouldn’t be here without our customers. Many of them have shown such loyalty to us over so many years; it’s a unique thing to see that kind of loyalty in a difficult market.
And what do you contribute that loyalty to?
We put the customer first every time. It’s something I emphasise with the team daily: our job is about the relationships we develop with the people behind the vehicles as much as knowing the tyre trade. We look after customers while they’re here with a nice waiting room, good coffee, and we deliver great service promptly. Customers often comment on how fast we’ve completed a tyre change – we can do it while they wait, because we know their time is precious.
What do your customers want from you?
No two customers are ever the same! We have both retail and commercial customers – some of the customers we’ve had the longest have vehicles nationwide, and we organise all the tyre services for them through the Bridgestone network. We service all the North Shore Police cars and motorway patrols here at Target Road; that’s 90 cars that we’re making sure get quickly back on the road with their drivers fully able to trust their tyres.
What makes Bridgestone Tyre Centre Target Road different to competitors?
We have a great team that delights in giving great service. We’re a cheerful bunch, and we take the time to talk to our customers and often have a laugh with them. And Bridgestone is a great brand – it’s just been awarded New Zealand’s most trusted tyre brand for the ninth year in a row – that’s some kind of a record! Our customers trust the products, and they trust our service. We take that very seriously.
I understand the business has won a few accolades?
We’ve won Bridgestone dealer of the year twice over the past 20 years – that’s a nationwide award and it’s not just for sales growth but for customer satisfaction, professionalism and presentation amongst other things.
Who would you and your team like to thank?
All our customers are valuable to us, and we’d like to thank everyone who has been a customer over the past 20 years! While we can’t name everyone, we’d like to highlight some of the customers we’ve had for the longest time and thank them for their loyalty:
• North Shore Toyota
• Benefitz
• Gill and Gundry
• Hanlon Plumbing
• North Shore Police and Motorway Policing
• ANZOR Fasteners
• Harbourside Homes Building Contractors
• Cook European
• Petermark Automotive
• Lexus North Shore
• AA Auto Centre – Wairau Park, St Lukes, Hobson St, Newmarket
Craig Biddulph, Logan Holloway, Garry Milham and Michael Hernandez. Absent: David Wigg
24 Victoria Road, Devonport Open 11:30am – late everyday 09 445 0193 | info@signalhill.co.nz signalhill.co.nz
Chapman Jones is proud to call Devonport home. Founded more than 30 years ago by Alan Jones, the firm was established with a simple goal: to provide trusted, approachable legal support to local people and businesses. Alan, originally from the South Island, brought with him a wealth of experience as a court lawyer, handling everything from commercial disputes to family matters and criminal trials. He saw an opportunity to create a law practice that would become part of the fabric of the Devonport community.
Meet the team
That vision is now shared with Lesley Chapman, a partner at Chapman Jones and a commercial solicitor with a law degree from the University of Westminster, London. Lesley’s career spans both private practice and in-house roles, including time as sole legal counsel for a major Auckland healthcare provider. Both Alan and Lesley live locally and have raised their families here. Alan enjoys a famously short commute, while Lesley cycles to work and knows all the best scenic routes around the peninsula.
Community at heart
with genuine care and combine legal know-how with a people-first approach. Over the years, the firm has advised three generations of clients in the local community.
For Alan and Lesley, being a local lawyer is about more than just giving legal advice. It’s about being someone people feel comfortable talking to, someone who can make the legal side of things feel simple and manageable. They’re on first-name terms with many local business owners and stay connected with what’s happening around town.
“Devonport really is the best little place in the country,” Alan says. “We’re lucky to work where we live. Our friends and our families are part of this village – and that makes our work even more meaningful. We’re community-minded.”
A people first approach
The Chapman Jones team reflects its leadership: anchored, calm and experienced. The staff support one another and their clients
Here to help
Whether you’re starting a business, buying a home, wanting a will or facing a legal challenge, Chapman Jones is here to help. As lifelong locals, Alan, Lesley, and their team are committed to supporting Devonport with practical, down-to-earth legal advice.
Contact Chapman Jones to find out how they can help you and your family.
Chapman Jones Law 11D Wynyard Street, Devonport • 09 445 6225 info@chapmanjones.co.nz chapmanjones.co.nz
Kate Jones, Carol Allen, Lesley Chapman, Alan Jones and Winnie the dog, Maria Perrett, Rachel Burrows
Making Father's Day a day to remember: DIY gifts and projects to share
Father's Day is fast approaching – Sunday 7 September. Be prepared and surprise him with something truly special.
Father’s Day is not necessarily about going all out with some grand gift; it’s about spending quality time with those who care for and look out for us. It can be quality time with or meaningful gifts for your dad, stepdad, granddad, or whoever the father figure is in your world.
This is your opportunity to show him just how much he means to you, not necessarily with a bought gift, but with a thoughtful handmade item showcasing your very own craftsmanship, or just creating something together and gifting your time to him. This year, forget boring last-minute gift cards or socks. These crafty ideas are hands-on, enjoyable and meaningful, as a surprise gift or as a craft activity with your dad or male loved one on the day, creating cherished memories together.
CONSTRUCT A BACKYARD BIRDHOUSE TOGETHER
Building a birdhouse is an excellent and fun way of creating some hands-on action in your backyard, both for you and for our feathered friends. Begin with some off-cut timber and nails or screws lying around, or grab a DIY kit at your local hardware store. Construct it beforehand as a surprise, or make it your Father’s Day activity by working on it together. Paint and decorate it, christen it, then install it in a spot where you can sit back and enjoy watching as birds make it their home.
PERSONALISED 'DAD AND ME' MEMORY FRAME
Choose a blank frame at your local $2 shop, op shop or craft store. Decorate it in your dad's favourite colours, or use stickers, pictures, or emoticons of your dad's favourite things or activities, like rugby, fishing, playing guitar or baking. Complete it by inserting a photo of a happy memory of you both together and gift it as a surprise, or make it together and 'serve' the finished gift with shared hot chocolate and treats.
THE 'BIG BREAKFAST' CHALLENGE
Rather than soggy WeetBix for breakfast, challenge your dad to a morning cookoff. Select a yummy dish each – perhaps
By Billy Brown
pancakes versus eggs on toast – and go head-to-head to create the tastiest Father’s Day feast. Ask your family to vote for the winner, or take the competitiveness out of it by simply enjoying the process and laughter together. Make sure you clean up afterwards – your dad will definitely appreciate a break from doing the dishes (depending on who wears the pants in your parents' relationship!).
CREATE AND CONSTRUCT YOUR OWN BACKYARD GAME
Make a yard game using recyclables such as scraps of wood, canned items, a piece of rope for a ring toss, giant dominoes, or a bean bag target board. Decorate it with bright colours with your names or team colours, and when complete, grab your equipment and head outside, challenging dad to some rounds. Ideal for a sunny afternoon and better still, with your whole family.
'10 THINGS I LOVE ABOUT YOU' JAR
Hand-write 10 of your favourite things you enjoy about your dad, or love him for. Here are some prompts to start you off: He's great at helping with homework, he listens to you really well, or he comes up with the world’s cringiest one-liners or 'dad jokes'. Roll up
each comment, store them in a jar or small container, and seal with pictures or a bespoke sticker, such as 'Open when you need a smile'. It is a little gift with massive power that goes a long way, and will be a lasting tribute to how special your dad is to you.
More than just a gift. You really don't have to be out of pocket to make this Father’s Day memorable. If you make time to build, cook, create, or simply relax together, it's the time and thought that truly matter. So, this Father's Day, roll up your sleeves, grab some tools, and craft him something he will cherish; not because it is impeccable or perfect, but because you created it for him, or even better, with him.
As we farewell Ellie before she departs overseas, we welcome her brother, Billy Brown, as our new Channel Mag youth contributor, along with Fantasia Nair, who'll continue to bring a fresh monthly feature 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.
Billy Brown, and step-dad, James Carrick
Is your teen dreaming of an overseas adventure?
AFS Intercultural Programmes New Zealand has helped over 20,000 Kiwi students swap their New Zealand school for a lifechanging study abroad experience.
The choice is yours
Programmes range from four weeks for a short, intercultural deepdive, to 11 months for long-lasting full immersion. With over 50 destinations, AFS has the globe pretty well covered. From Asia to Europe, Africa to the Americas — AFS can take you there!
Scholarships
and grants
AFS is a mission-driven organisation and believes that intercultural exchange should be accessible to as many students as possible. A range of scholarships and grants is available to provide financial support where needed. It does cost money to go on an exchange, but don't think for a moment that it isn't doable!
The AFS experience
Participants on an AFS programme don't just visit places; they live life in a new country. They become part of a volunteer host family, attend a local high school and form lifelong friendships. Prepared through comprehensive orientations, looked after by robust support structures and accompanied by sound educational content, AFS participants become active global citizens.
• Adrien, who spent a year in Finland, says, "My time in Finland completely changed me... I have new goals and aspire for more."
• Tui said this after her year in France: "I made new friends, I learned a whole new language, and discovered who I am as an individual. The person who arrived in France is not the same person who left it, that's for sure."
Why AFS?
AFS Intercultural Programmes is a volunteer-driven non-profit organisation that has been operating in New Zealand since 1947. With over 75 years of experience, world-leading educational standards, 24/7 support and partners like the UN and the University of Pennsylvania, AFS has the expertise you need!
Round the World Student Exchange Expo Sunday 24 August 2025, 2pm - 6pm
Taitamariki Hall, 8 Auburn Street, Takapuna
This is your chance to meet many returnee students who have lived the AFS experience first-hand. They'll be available to share their stories, answer your questions, and offer insights into their host countries and the profound impact their exchange had on their lives. Whether you're curious about a high school study abroad programme, a short intercultural summer programme or hosting a student in New Zealand, come along and get advice directly from the people who've done it!
This expo is the perfect opportunity to envision your teen's global future. afs.org.nz
On Wednesday 25 June, Rosmini College celebrated its annual Rosmini Day, beginning with Mass in honour of their founder, Antonio Rosmini, followed by a shared morning tea and House Chant competition, led by the Year 13 cohort. It was a great way for the youngest students
to interact with their elder brothers.
After an extended lunch and sausage sizzle raising money for the Cancer Foundation, the school gathered to watch the popular Teachers versus Prefects football match. It was a very physical game, and the support from the crowd was
fantastic. For the second year in a row, the Teachers claimed the cup! Beyond the day's festivities, the prefects extended their efforts throughout the week by organising a food drive for De Paul House, exemplifying the school's guiding principle: Charity Fulfils the Law.
New aviation project at Rosmini
A five-year chapter in Rosmini College's history recently closed as the studentbuilt aircraft, a kitset Savannah, departed for its new home in Rangiora. Over the next three to five months, the aircraft will be completed, a testament to the dedication and hard work of 50 students under the guidance of teacher John Smith. "As a project, the Savannah build was probably the most successful thing I’ve ever been part of, in terms of student outcomes," says Smith. In fact, 35 students went on to train as engineers, eight as pilots, and one as a rocket designer. While the Rosmini community will miss witnessing its progress, another exciting aviation endeavour is already on the horizon.
Through the Royal Aero Society's Project Frankenplane, students are challenged to design, build, and fly planes using only free, recycled parts. Rosmini is one of nine Auckland schools participating, with students collaborating with aviation volunteers and engineering students. The project culminates in a Term 3 holiday competition for a cash prize. Students must construct balsa wood aircraft that can perform manoeuvres, carry a handball, and land accurately. Resourcefulness is key, as parts must be "begged, borrowed, invented, acquired, or bought" in that order.
Beyond the technical aspects, students learn about plane mechanics, flying, and repairs, fostering teamwork and collaboration. Rosmini currently has two teams, with plans for nationwide expansion of this 'One Foot in the Clouds' initiative, supported by the Royal Aero Society, Aerospace New Zealand, and universities.
Rosmini awarded at The Big Sing 2025
Rosmini Chamber Choir recently performed at the Auckland regional final of The Big Sing Competition. As part of Chamber Choir’s repertoire, they performed 'What Was I Made For?' by Billie Eilish, which is a song from the Barbie movie. This slow, reflective song, along with the choir’s subtle choreography, caught the attention of the adjudicator, and the choir was awarded an Adjudicator Award at the evening Gala Concert. With limited awards given out, this is a huge honour for the boys.
TGS Rowing named Club of the Year
Takapuna Grammar Rowing Club has been awarded the prestigious "Club of the Year" title – an historic first for the school. “This is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and passion of everyone involved in our club,” head coach Sam Grant said. “From our rowers achieving success at national, club and school championships to those representing at the international level, this recognition celebrates not just results, but the effort and commitment behind them.”
Medals at the New Zealand National Club Championships, strong performances at the Maadi Cup and North Island regattas, and international representation in both traditional and coastal rowing
helped the club earn the coveted Auckland Rowing award. The club also made significant strides in para rowing, supporting a neurodiverse athlete through her development journey and contributing to national adaptive rowing initiatives.
Takapuna Grammar Rowing Club operates as a club within a non-fee-paying state school and has built a sustainable model prioritising accessibility and inclusion. Holiday rowing camps and intermediate school programmes were launched this year, opening the sport to more on the North Shore. “In a region filled with outstanding clubs doing great things for the sport and their communities, it’s a real privilege to receive this recognition,” Sam said.
TGS chorale success here and abroad
Takapuna Grammar School alumni have continued the school’s proud tradition of choral excellence, with Matthew Spooner and Tausala Faulalo part of the New Zealand Youth Choir (NZYC) – recently crowned Choir of the World at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales. The choir also won the Grand Prix of Nations at the European Choir Games in Denmark, scoring an extraordinary 97.5 in the Folklore category.
Tausala, a talented alto, has trained in classical piano and voice, sings with the Auckland Chamber Choir, and is part of
TGS dancers in top form
the New Zealand Young Conductor training programme. Matthew, a talented tenor in his third year studying Classical Voice at the University of Auckland, performs with the Auckland Chamber Choir, Holy Trinity Cathedral Choir, Harbour Voices, and the vocal quartet Mayday. Their success is a testament to the strength of Takapuna Grammar’s choir programme, which continues to thrive in 2025. Leonessa, the school’s premiere treble voices choir, has once again been selected for the New Zealand Choral Federation’s Big Sing Finale. Only 24 were chosen from 200 choirs to perform at this
prestigious event, to be held in late August at the Dunedin Town Hall. The Takapuna Grammar Chorale, the school’s mixed voices choir, has been invited to Cadenza in Rotorua – a finale-style event where choirs refine their skills through workshops led by internationally recognised choral specialists.
TGS Fulbright Award winner, New York bound
TGS dancers have impressed adjudicators once again. At July’s prestigious Velocity Inter-School Dance competition, our premiere company Cactus placed second in the highly competitive Open Teams section. Our Chinese Dance Group earned third in the NDC schools’ Variety section with a stunning traditional performance, also receiving a special award for artistry. Next month’s Dance Showcase will be a highlight of the year, featuring our competition teams alongside non-auditioned clubs and classroom groups. Many performances will be student-choreographed, showcasing styles from contemporary and hip-hop to lyrical and jazz. Audiences are set to be blown away by the range and skill of our dancers.
Phoebe Johnson, a proud Takapuna Grammar graduate, has been awarded a 2025 Fulbright New Zealand General Graduate Award – one of only five recipients nationwide. In January, she’ll head to New York to begin her Master of Fine Arts in performer/composer at The New School, a globally respected hub for creative arts. Fulbright Awards are highly competitive and support outstanding New Zealand graduates to study or research in the United States. Phoebe’s selection reflects her exceptional talent and dedication to music. A TGS student from 2011 to 2015, Phoebe was deeply involved in the school’s music scene, performing in the Jazz Band, Chamber Orchestra, and vocal groups Leonessa and The Foxy Pitches. She went on to earn First Class Honours in jazz performance from Te Kōkī, The New Zealand School of Music.
Matthew Spooner
Tausala Faulalo
TGS was part of the NZ Beach Sprint Team in Malta
Phoebe Johnson
Game changers: Inspiring the next generation of women in sport
At Westlake Girls High School, sport plays a central role in school life. From earlymorning trainings to Saturday fixtures, it’s where many of our students find connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
While we’re hugely proud of our competitive success – and particularly proud of the five Westlake alumnae who represented New Zealand at the 2024
Olympic and Paralympic Games – our approach to sport is broader than just high performance. We offer more than 40 codes, ranging from mainstream to niche, with opportunities for students at every level – from social teams to elite squads.
Our facilities, including two covered courts and an all-weather turf, mean that sport can happen year-round. And importantly, our culture encourages participation. We
want students to stay active, feel supported, and enjoy the many benefits that come with being part of a team – especially during the teenage years, when girls’ involvement in sport tends to decline.
Sport has always been a powerful tool for developing leadership, resilience, and teamwork. At Westlake, it’s also a space for students to express themselves, take risks, and learn to back themselves – lessons that
often last far longer than any final score.
"With aroha, mana, and integrity, we teach and coach with purpose – inspiring excellence through hauora, movement, and meaningful connections." — Leisen Jobe, Head of Faculty, PE, Health and Sport
“At Westlake Girls sport, we foster a culture where participation is celebrated, and excellence is pursued with integrity and compassion. Our sports staff is dedicated
to go above and beyond, to ensure every student’s love of sport thrives and continues well beyond their school years. We are New Zealand’s largest school for young women, and ranked second-top girls’ school for sport in the country for 2024. We are fortunate to have a principal, Jane Stanley, who supports the empowerment of women in sport passionately.” — April Ieremia, Director of Sport.
With aroha, mana, and integrity, we teach and coach with purpose…
Rock and Rocky Road: Our annual rock showcase!
What do you get when you mix a darkened auditorium with café-style seating, two stages, epic lighting, stage smoke, and even a spark machine? Add in seven rock bands, three duos, four solo acts, a whole heap of talented techies, and four incredibly
entertaining hosts, and you've got a recipe for an unforgettable night!
This year's annual rock showcase was, once again, a raging success, delivering "delicious slabs of rock road" to a very appreciative audience. From the moment the
lights dimmed, the energy was electric, with performers giving it their all and the crowd cheering for more. It’s clear this winning formula keeps getting better every year, proving that our school knows how to rock!
A symphony at the Arvida Knightsbridge community
Rangitoto’s chamber programme recently visited the Arvida Knightsbridge community, offering residents two delightful Sunday afternoons of musical entertainment. These performances were met with an enthusiastic turnout from the village community, and a welcome presence of parents and siblings of the talented young musicians. In addition to these chamber concerts, a vibrant Thursday afternoon saw three visiting choirs grace the stage, sharing their impressive Big Sing repertoire. The joy these events bring is yet another demonstration of the thriving relationship between Rangitoto College and Arvida Knightsbridge.
Our dancers shine brightly at National Dance Challenge
Rangitoto is immensely proud of our talented dancers who brought their A-game to the National Dance Challenge (NDC) at Westlake Girls High School. Our five co-curricular dance groups performed their hearts out, making our community incredibly proud and bringing home some truly fantastic results.
Their success is an example of the countless hours of dedication, commitment, and resilience these young performers pour into their craft. We extend a huge thank you to all our supporters and the wider dance community who came out to cheer on our students. Your presence made all the difference!
CELEBRATING OUR
RESULTS:
Theatre Company — Secured fourth place in the highly competitive Variety section. Magnum Troupe — Dazzled their way to second place in the Jazz section and also earned a well-deserved Student Choreography Award. Hip Hop Mega Crew — Brought the house down with their energy, landing second place in the Hip Hop section and taking home the Best Energy Award.
Magnum Company — Showcased their artistry with a brilliant first place in the Contemporary section!
Overture Ballet Troupe — Absolutely soared to first place in the Lyrical section, also receiving a Student Choreography Award, the prestigious Rise Up Award, and a Wild Card nomination to perform at the highly anticipated Finals Gala!
A STAR ON THE RISE
A special congratulations goes out to Bella Iti, a Year 13 student, who was awarded a fully funded summer scholarship to Village Nation in Sydney! What an incredible opportunity for a truly dedicated dancer.
OUR AMAZING STUDENT LEADERS
We also want to give a huge shout-out to our incredible team of student leaders. These dedicated individuals worked tirelessly behind the scenes on choreography, rehearsals, costuming, music editing, and teaching their groups. Their leadership was instrumental to our success. A big thank you to: Kira Morgan, Mia Rajratnam, Riley Weber, Izzy Katipa, Hayley Stirling, Eric Taylor, Lily Danks, Kiera Solomon, Jessica Zhu, and Bella Iti.
Finally, a massive thank you to National Dance Challenge New Zealand for hosting such a fantastic event that truly celebrates the talent and hard work of our dancers and the wider dance community!
Mānawatia a Matariki
Matariki, while recognised by many in Aotearoa as an additional public holiday, holds profound significance in te ao Māori (the Māori world) as a powerful symbol of new beginnings. It is a time for deep reflection, acknowledging loved ones who have passed, contemplating the past year, and setting aspirations for the future.
This period fosters a vital connection to all aspects of the world around us and strengthens bonds among people. It's a moment to look ahead and reflect on our ancestors (tüpuna) under the blessings of the Matariki star cluster, encompassing gratitude for our food, health, and future hopes. In Aotearoa, Matariki was celebrated as a public holiday
on Friday 20 June 2025. The Rangitoto College community actively participates in this significant cultural observance the dawn before, celebrating annually with a traditional hāutapu ceremony. This custom involves feeding the stars, a symbolic act that embodies the core tenets of Matariki: remembrance, reflection, and setting intentions for the year ahead.
Kristin garments wow at Wearable Art Showcase
Thirteen students recently represented Kristin at the annual TOI Wearable Art Showcase at the Aotea Centre, competing against 218 entries from across Auckland. Having excelled in our Kristin competition, they earned the opportunity to showcase their talents on the Auckland runway. Throughout the day, they participated in workshops, posed for photos and rehearsed, often seen making last-minute adjustments with hot glue guns.
We are thrilled to announce that all four Kristin entries received technical awards:
• Innovative Use of Materials: Holes in Perfection by Yiyi Chen, Eva Xia and Dora Zhang; and Woven Together by Michaela Miles, Zoe Coward and Sarah Bryne.
• Outstanding Stage Presence: Reverie Timekeeper by Emily Wang, Meilin Mao, Cynthia Chang and Rebecca Shi.
• Creative Concept: Si Chuang, Lisa Yang, Avrille Zhong and Elisha Wu.
Our students also won a prestigious 'Star of the Night' trophy for Holes in Perfection, a garment symbolising life’s imperfections and the resilience needed to overcome challenges. The students dedicated countless hours to designing and refining their garments, making the awards a well-deserved achievement.
Inspiring Year 7 creativity in arts and languages
At the end of Term 2, our Year 7 students immersed themselves in a vibrant two-day Interdisciplinary Unit (IDU) experience, co-delivered by Kristin School teachers and practising, reputable artists from Corban Estate Arts Centre. Workshops were held both at Corban Estate and on-site at Kristin, with all sessions led collaboratively by our teachers and the Corban tutors, who brought real-world expertise and passion to every activity.
What made this experience truly special was the authenticity and depth of learning. Students engaged directly with professional artists whose work is respected in the fields of movement, music, and visual arts. Every workshop across both days integrated these art forms with learning of te reo Māori and Māori culture, allowing students to explore storytelling, vocabulary, and creative expression in a uniquely meaningful context.
By learning alongside artists who
actively contribute to Aotearoa’s cultural landscape, students gained firsthand insight into the power of the arts and the richness of te ao Māori. This authentic, collaborative approach fostered creativity, intercultural understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the connections between language and the arts. The IDU culminated in an unforgettable interdisciplinary performance event in the Dove Theatre, showcasing the learning and creativity that had taken place over the two days.
Senior School student heading to Scrabble Youth World Championships
Senior School student Cooper Ashley (Year 11) will represent New Zealand at the World Youth Scrabble Championship in Kuala Lumpur from 30 August – 1 September this year. Cooper always liked playing Scrabble as a kid, now and then, but one day stumbled across an American Scrabble grandmaster’s YouTube channel:
“I didn't even know people played Scrabble competitively. I thought that looked really interesting, so I watched all the videos, then downloaded the training software he was using, and used it to learn words to get an edge against my family. My mum got sick of losing, so she suggested we see if there was a Scrabble club I could join, and we found one in Mt Albert. Once in the club, I was encouraged to start playing tournaments. I always like the competitive side of things, so I thought that sounded amazing,” says Cooper.
In less than a year of competitive play, Cooper has remarkably risen to be the number one ranked youth player in New Zealand, the category for players under 18;
Cooper is only 15, so it's something he is “pretty pleased with”.
The Youth World Championships in Kuala Lumpur are something he is really looking forward to testing himself in:
“I haven't had much global experience yet, so this opportunity will allow me to see what the game is like at this high level. I am quite excited to be playing in a tournament of this calibre for the first time,” says Cooper.
The competition will be held in a large school hall, a far cry from the Bridge clubs where most of his games are played in New Zealand, and will consist of 24 games across three days. To prepare, Cooper studies the Collins Dictionary and uses special software programmes that allow you to do anagramming with different word lists.
Scrabble is more complex than some might think, but it’s the words that Cooper really enjoys:
“A lot of people like it for the strategy, but I have always been a big fan of the words. Although it is categorised as a word game,
some players like to downplay how much of a word game it is and say it’s more about maths and probability, and it is a lot of those things, but for me it’s just so exciting to play a really weird and obscure word and think ‘wow I can’t believe I found that’,” says Cooper.
Over King's Birthday Weekend, Cooper competed at the New Zealand Association of Scrabble Players (NZASP) National Championship, where he lived up to his number one ranking by winning the youth category, a fantastic confidence boost before heading to Malaysia.
Carmel Day 2025: Celebrating our Catholic and Mercy tradition
On Thursday 26 June, Carmel College came together to celebrate Carmel Day, honouring the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel – the patroness of our school and the Sisters of Mercy who founded it. This special day united students, staff, and the wider community in prayer, reflection, and celebration of our core Mercy values rooted in compassion, service, and faith.
CARMEL DAY MASS
The day featured a meaningful Carmel Day Mass and the presentation of our annual Mercy Awards, recognising those who have exemplified Mercy in Action throughout the year. This year, our Community Award winners were:
• John Waters: For his long-standing dedication to Waterwise and his mentorship of students through sailing.
• Beth Railton: For her unwavering support of Carmel sport, consistently leading with kindness and efficiency. And our Staff Award winners were:
• Grant Julius: For his invaluable behindthe-scenes work that keeps our school
running, always with a problem-solving attitude and generous heart.
• Anne-Marie Davis: For her outstanding teaching and pastoral care, and her steadfast encouragement that helps our young women flourish.
We thank each of you for truly embodying Mercy in Action.
CARMEL DAY CONCERT
The celebrations continued with the muchanticipated Carmel Day concert, where the school tuned in to “Carmel Radio,” enjoying high-energy performances themed around music genres including Kiwiana, rock, country, R&B, house and techno, and hip hop. It was an amazing showcase of talent, with epic performances and killer dance moves lighting up the stage.
FAREWELL FATHER MARK
We also bid a heartfelt farewell to Father Mark Napa, who has served as Carmel College’s chaplain since 2022. His presence has been a source of kindness, guidance, and spiritual strength for our community.
We thank him for his ministry and support, and we wish him every blessing for the road ahead.
“Thank you, Father Mark, for walking with us in faith, kindness, and gentle leadership.”
Carmel Day remains a cherished tradition that connects us to our rich heritage, strengthens our community spirit, and inspires us to live the values that define us.
Grant Julius and Anne-Marie Davis John Waters and Beth Railton
Father Mark
Beyond the classroom: How ASHS is redefining success
At Albany Senior High School, learning goes beyond traditional classrooms – it’s an active, empowered journey within a modern learning environment designed to prepare young people for a complex and ever-changing world. With a bold, future-focused approach, ASHS is challenging outdated assumptions and creating real pathways for every learner to thrive.
OPEN MINDS, OPEN SPACES
Our open-plan modern learning environment is more than a design choice –it’s a deliberate strategy to foster the skills students need to succeed beyond school.
By removing traditional walls, we encourage collaboration, self-management, and adaptability – essential abilities in today’s complex world. Teachers work in teams, modelling communication and cooperation, while students benefit from a shared sense of purpose and ownership over their learning. This vibrant, flexible space empowers young people to lead, question, and thrive in an environment built for modern challenges.
LEARNING THAT LEADS SOMEWHERE
Future-focused learning isn’t just a philosophy – it’s embedded in how we operate. Programmes like Impact Projects allow students to step beyond the classroom and pursue meaningful, self-directed work
that connects to the real world.
Guided by values like curiosity, creativity, and the belief that how you are bright matters, we foster critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability. Through personalised learning and a deep commitment to student agency, young people leave with the tools they need to shape their futures with confidence and purpose.
SUCCESS STORIES SPEAK VOLUMES
Academic excellence and career success thrive within our modern learning environment, where diverse talents and aspirations are nurtured.
Our students have gone on to study and build meaningful careers across a wide spectrum of fields, from accounting, finance, and law, to teaching, engineering, marketing, and commerce. Many credit their time at ASHS for developing the confidence, independence, and critical
thinking skills essential to succeed at university and beyond.
By fostering self-directed learning, realworld inquiry, and personalised support, ASHS prepares young people not only to achieve academically but to pursue purposeful and fulfilling futures.
In-zone and out-of-zone enrolments are now open.
Ready to experience the future of education? Seize the opportunity to enrol and let your rangatahi begin a journey of limitless possibilities. Visit ashs.school.kiwi.
Westlake Boys launches game development partnership with Mytona
The global video game market is currently valued at nearly $300 billion, making it larger than the combined film and music industries. It’s a sector offering huge career and business opportunities for many of our students at Westlake Boys. We’re proud to announce a new partnership with Mytona, one of New Zealand’s largest gaming companies and a major international mobile game developer. This collaboration has led to the creation of one of Auckland’s first structured, fully sponsored game development programmes in a high school, with a longer-term plan to develop into a curriculum offering in following years. This initiative is also a meaningful step toward supporting Auckland’s vision to become a leading tech and innovation hub – by investing in local talent pipelines and creating stronger bridges between schools and industry.
Offered initially as an after-school course, the programme introduces students to game development fundamentals. It covers everything from coding and design to teamwork and project management. The course has already seen strong interest, with over 130 students signing up – a clear indication of the growing demand for game development education among youth.
"We’re excited to partner with Mytona to bring real-world software and game development experience into Westlake Boys. This collaboration allows our students to showcase their creativity, build real-world skills, and learn from industry professionals – turning their interests into meaningful opportunities with future pathways," said Simon O’Brien, who leads the course at Westlake Boys. “What
sets this course apart is direct access to Mytona’s expertise. Students will benefit from mentorship, feedback, site visits, and guest talks from industry professionals."
Mytona recently visited Westlake, joined by two Westlakers who are now part of the company. Wade Kirkland (class of 1995), now Mytona’s finance director, spoke about the company’s growth from twin brothers in Siberia to more than 600 employees globally, with its headquarters in Auckland and main offices in Singapore, Kazakhstan, and Thailand. Joseph Choi (class of 2009) shared his journey from studying engineering to pursuing his passion for game design. He also spoke about some of Mytona’s most successful titles, including Cooking Diary and Seekers Notes — both ranked among the top three highestgrossing games in their genres worldwide. Westlake students also visited Mytona’s offices overlooking Takapuna beach for a behind-the-scenes tour, where they learned about the many elements that go into bringing a game to life.
“In addition to our core mission to make iconic games, Mytona is driven by an important goal: to share our knowledge with young talent, to inspire and educate, and in doing so, bring added value to the community,” said Sasha Baisheva, Executive Director of Mytona.
“Westlake Boys already has significant experience in game development education. After meeting with the school’s leadership, we learned that students have been creating their own games for several years, developing their skills through hands-on practice and laying a strong foundation for game development within the school. We truly value this practical approach and the enthusiasm shown by both students and teachers. We believe that our support – both financial and expert –can help these students fully unlock their creative and technical potential.
“After spending more time with the students, our team was impressed by their motivation and genuine passion –keen minds and passionate spirits! This resonates deeply with our own approach to creating games. Together, WBHS and Mytona are building a meaningful pathway from the classroom to the global games industry,” said Sasha.
This partnership represents a new step in bridging classroom learning with global industry, giving students a head start in one of the fastest-growing creative fields in the world. It also reflects Auckland’s broader ambition to position itself as a hub for world-class creativity, innovation, and technology – with initiatives like this laying the foundation for the city’s digital future.
Mytona visited Westlake Boys and our students then visited their Headquarters at Takapuna Beach where experts gave them a deeper understanding of game development.
Mytona Finance Director and Westlaker Wade Kirkland (1995) chats with students at his old school.
Chinese Night takes centre stage
The annual Westlake Chinese Night took place on Friday, 27 June at our auditorium, with over 1000 in the audience from both schools and the community supporting the event.
It was an amazing night filled with energy, showcasing a mix of traditional and modern
Chinese performances on stage. Since the beginning of Chinese Night, which was 14 years ago, we have donated part of our proceeds to local charities and both schools. This year, we’re proud to be donating $1,500 to the Boys’ First Foundation, $1,500 to Westlake Girls’ High School, as well
as $1,500 to the charity group Amnesty International. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event –we can’t wait to bring you an even more spectacular show next year!
Thomas Wang (2025 Chinese Night committee co-leader)
Raising emotionally strong teenagers
As part of our Parent Education series, we’re pleased to welcome wellbeing specialist and educator Caroline Black for a special session with parents and whānau. Our guest speaker will explore timely and practical strategies for supporting our teens’ emotional development. Her presentation, on Thursday 14 August, will focus on:
• Naming and normalising emotions;
• Understanding stress, anxiety, and the developing brain;
• Building inner resources for selfawareness;
• Tools to support emotional regulation.
This is a valuable opportunity for parents navigating the ups and downs of the teen years and is aimed towards the wider North Shore community.
Parent Evening with Caroline Black – Thursday 14 August, 5:30pm in the staffroom
Tickets: $10 (students and children free). Scan the QR code to purchase a ticket.
Hockey Prems win Worner Shield
Westlake Boys’ Senior Premier hockey team has just won the Worner Shield – a league-format competition featuring six of the top hockey schools in New Zealand. Earlier in the season, Westlake defeated both Whangārei Boys’ High and St Paul’s Collegiate, setting them up well heading into the final round at St Paul’s in Hamilton. There, they continued their strong form, notching solid wins over Christ’s College and St Bede’s College. On Monday 14 July, they faced Timaru Boys’ in what was described as one of the best schoolboy hockey matches seen in years. Westlake led twice, but Timaru pulled back to win 3-2 with a late penalty corner. The result meant it all came down to goal difference – and when Whangārei failed to win their final match by a big enough margin, Westlake was crowned Worner Shield champion.
More than 1,000 people attended Chinese Night. This year $4,500 was donated to various charities.
The Senior Hockey Prems with the Worner Shield
Tammy is the Managing Director at Davenports Law and leads the Trust Law and Wealth Protection team. She is a trust and asset structuring specialist with over 25 years legal experience specialising in the areas of personal asset planning, trust law and Property (Relationships) Act. She 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. She is only one of a handful of lawyers nationally who specialise solely in the area of trusts and asset planning, and is one of the leading lawyers in her field. Tammy is a past president of the Auckland Women Lawyers’ Association and past vice-president of the North Harbour Club, a charitable organisation on the North Shore. Tammy is a member of The Law Association Continuing Legal Education and Committee and is on the panel of interviewers for those looking to practice on their own account for the New Zealand Law Society.
Sandwiched between two generations
Kate had a group of friends from university who she caught up with on a regular basis. Six of her friends, who had all returned to the North Shore after their study, met every two months, taking turns to host the friends. It was a time to reminisce, but also to share their day-to-day highlights and trials. Over the 30 years since they had graduated, they had shared stories of new relationships, marriages, children, promotions, redundancies and, tragically, the early death of one in their group.
Whenever Kate came home from the uni group catch up, it took her a while to unwind, but when she came home last night, she lay awake for ages thinking about the various situations that the women in the group were now in. One of her friends, Rachel, laughingly had said that they were now the “sandwich generation”, in their mid 50s, sandwiched between elderly parents and children who were no longer reliant on them for the day to day, but reliant on their parents to support them into the next stage of home ownership and having children. Kate reflected on this and then thought about the friends within the group.
not the case and Nicola and her mother had been to see a lawyer to help them make an application to the court for Nicola’s mother to be a property manager for her husband.
There was Rachel who had made the sandwich generation comment. Rachel’s parents were in their late 70s, and Rachel had spent many hours visiting various retirement villages with them before finding one which was appropriate for the needs of her mother who was unwell and would soon need hospital care, but also her father who was young for his years and needed a lot of social interaction. Coupled with that, Rachel’s older daughter was looking to purchase her own home with her partner. Rachel and her husband were looking to help their daughter and her partner into their home, but while they were asset rich, they were cash poor and needed some advice as to how they could help their daughter without compromising their own position.
Nicola’s father had recently been diagnosed with dementia. Nicola’s mother had been looking after him at home and neither Nicola nor her brother had realised how bad her dad actually was. No one had thought about the legal documents that might make things easier to deal with her dad’s assets. While Nicola’s parents owned their family home jointly, all their investments were in her dad’s sole name. At the last doctor’s appointment, the doctor had said that Nicola’s dad no longer had capacity to make his own financial decisions and queried whether powers of attorney were in place. Nicola’s mum had looked at the doctor blankly. She had always just assumed that she would be able to access their assets or at least sign on behalf of her husband. They soon learned that was
Mel and her husband had recently separated. Kate had always thought that they had seemed happy enough, but Mel had recently confided that this was not the case. They were now going through a messy separation – Mel’s husband had a new partner already and while Mel had thought they would be able to sort things out amicably, that did not seem to be the case. Mel and her husband had multiple trusts with various assets and now her children who were in their mid 20s had taken advice as to their rights within the trusts. The dispute between Mel and her husband had now become a family dispute which was incredibly upsetting for Mel.
Kate reflected on the situations her friends were in, and was grateful for her own relatively calm life, but worried for her friends. The sandwich generation had so much going on, it felt like a mix of legal advice and life advice. Then Kate remembered that she and her husband had never made wills – they had drafted them when they purchased their first home all those years ago but had got stuck on who would be guardians of their then toddler children. Those children were now in the mid 20s, and the wills were still not finalised. Kate vowed to make an appointment with their lawyer the next morning.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
PARENTS, PARTNERS, ADULT KIDS – AND ASSETS
Navigating The Sandwich Years.
FREE SEMINAR
Caught between supporting aging parents and helping adult children find their feet? Separating or entering into a new relationship? You’re not alone.
Join Tammy McLeod and Stephanie Irons for an informative seminar covering midlife legal, financial, and personal considerations that come with ‘The Sandwich Years’.
We’ll cover:
• Asset structuring
• Navigating separation and divorce
• Helping adult children into property
• Guiding aging parents
9TH SEPTEMBER 2025
6:00PM - 7:30PM
North Harbour Lounge, Level One North Harbour Stadium
seminar.
By Nicolene Botha - Senior Associate
Are you sitting on untapped efficiency?
How our bookkeeping service unlocks time and cost savings for growing New Zealand businesses
In today’s fast-moving business environment, many small to medium sized businesses in New Zealand are focused on growing sustainably, yet one area often overlooked in that pursuit is bookkeeping. For many, what started as a basic compliance function has grown into an operational burden, slowing decisionmaking, creating inefficiencies, and wasting resources that could be better spent on building the business.
Understanding the bookkeeping bottleneck
As businesses grow, bookkeeping becomes more complex and often more costly. Here are some of the most common challenges we see:
• Manual processes that result in errors, rework, and lost time;
• Delayed or inconsistent reporting, making it harder to make timely, informed decisions;
• Internal resourcing pressure, with staff who aren’t trained bookkeepers trying to ‘make do’;
• Limited financial visibility, preventing confident, proactive business planning;
• Uncontrolled cost creep, with fees that rise as things become more complex.
These issues are rarely due to negligence: they are symptoms of systems that have not evolved alongside the business. In many cases, business owners know there is a problem but are not sure what the right next step looks like.
A smarter, scalable bookkeeping solution: Introducing GPS This is exactly why we created our GPS team: Andersen’s Growth Partner Solutions.
Built specifically for growing New Zealand businesses, GPS offers a fully outsourced or hybrid model, to deliver cost-effective, scalable bookkeeping and virtual CFO (vCFO) services without compromising on quality or accuracy. At first glance, many people assume that because Andersen is a globally recognised name, our services must come with a steep price tag. That’s simply not true – especially when it comes to GPS. We’ve specifically designed this department to offer affordable, practical support for growing Kiwi businesses.
Whether you’re a tradie, a property manager, a start-up, or a multientity group, we work with businesses like yours every day – businesses that need reliable, accurate bookkeeping without the big-firm price.
This is a smarter way to manage the financial backbone of your business, ensuring it works for you, not against you.
Whether support is required for day-to-day bookkeeping, strategic financial oversight, or something in between, GPS is designed to flex and grow with business needs. Partnering with GPS can unlock several tangible benefits:
• Free up your time to focus on running and growing your business;
• Reduce admin pressure on your internal team;
• Get timely, accurate financial reports so you know exactly where you stand;
• Improve compliance and reduce the risk of missed tax obligations;
• Make better decisions with clearer, real-time financial insights;
• Save money compared to hiring, training, or managing in-house bookkeeping staff.
Benefits of this model are already evident. Our bookkeeping team is fully operational and integrated into our systems and processes, enabling efficient scaling, quick response to client needs, and maintenance of a consistently high standard of work. This means you get quality and cost-efficiency, without having to choose between the two. Many clients are surprised to find that outsourcing to our GPS team costs less than hiring a parttime bookkeeper – and delivers a far higher standard of work.
Could GPS be a fit for your business?
If curiosity exists around our ability to streamline your bookkeeping and improve financial control, a conversation is welcomed. In a short, no-obligation meeting, it is possible to explore whether our team is the right step for your business. Our team is made up of real people who take the time to understand your business, speak your language, and deliver a service you can trust.
Sometimes, the solution is simply uncovering a more efficient way to manage existing processes, allowing a shift in focus from admin to growth.
We understand that changing the way your bookkeeping is done can feel like a big step, but it might just be the one thing holding you back from your next phase of growth.
Let’s have a chat. No pressure, no sales pitch – just a short conversation to explore whether we’re the right fit. Even if you’re not quite ready to switch, we can share some insights into improving your current processes or identifying gaps.
Sometimes, it’s not about doing more, it’s about doing things better.
How Andersen supports smarter financial management
At Andersen, the mission is to help SMEs build resilience, scale with confidence, and maintain financial clarity. The GPS department represents an extension of that commitment; we combine the rigour and technical quality of a professional firm with the flexibility and practicality that New Zealand businesses need. We meet you where you are – and help you go further.
From one-man bands to larger enterprises, we work across industries, including trades, real estate, logistics, and hospitality. We know the challenges, the seasonality, and the cashflow pressures that many New Zealand businesses face. Our goal is to make your financial admin simpler, smarter, and more affordable.
Ready to take the next step?
Let’s find out whether GPS is the right next step for your business. Book a brief discovery call or try our quick online calculator to get an estimate.
470 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
09 309 7851
nz.Andersen.com
Is your child nearly five?
Here's what I think really matters
As a parent, I remember well the mix of emotions that comes with your child turning five. There’s pride and excitement, of course, but also a little uncertainty. Choosing where they will begin their formal schooling can feel like a big decision, because it is one.
In my role as Junior School principal, and as someone who has spent many years teaching this age group myself, I often speak with families navigating this very moment. One thing I like to offer is a gentle shift in thinking: instead of asking “Is my child ready for school?”, perhaps the better question is “Is the school ready for my child?”
Young children are already amazing learners. They’re naturally curious, creative, and constantly making sense of the world around them. The best schools don’t try to standardise them; they build on what’s already there, nurturing that confidence and individuality. So, what does a school that’s truly ready for five-year-olds look like?
Young
children are already amazing learners. They’re
naturally curious, creative, and constantly making sense of the world around them.
At Kristin, our answer starts with people. All our Year 0 and Year 1 classrooms have both a fully qualified teacher and a dedicated learning assistant, allowing for rich small-group teaching and the individual attention this age group needs to thrive. Class sizes are small, on purpose, to ensure foundational skills are deeply embedded from the beginning. This isn’t just theory; it’s something I’ve seen work again and again in practice. Our approach leads to confident learners with strong early literacy and numeracy, and a lifelong love of learning. Parents who visit often comment on the calm “buzz” in our classrooms; focused, happy children engaged in meaningful work, with a quiet confidence that speaks volumes.
So, if your child is turning five in 2026, now is the right time to start exploring your options. Visit schools, ask questions, and trust your instincts. You’ll know when you find a place that feels right for your child and for you.
Further information:
Kristin is a co-educational independent school in Albany, offering a seamless education from Kindergarten to Year 13. From the earliest years, our students learn through the world-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum; a forward-thinking, innovative framework designed to nurture curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. It’s a proven approach that prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Our Years 0-1 team works closely with Kindergarten to ensure a gentle, relationship-based transition. From day one, children benefit from small classes, dedicated learning assistants, rich outdoor learning, and specialist teachers in PE, music, drama, art, library, te reo Māori, and Chinese. We are now accepting applications for our 2026 intake. Limited spaces are available. Visit kristin.school.nz to learn more or begin the application process.
By Olivia Crum – Law Clerk.
Olivia has a keen interest in advocacy and is passionate about the different kinds of interpersonal relationships and issues that the law often deals with. Olivia has joined our family law team and will be assisting in all areas of our family law practice. Olivia will be admitted to the Bar in September 2025.
When “equal” is not fair
The Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (“PRA”) was designed with good intentions: to facilitate the just division of relationship property between spouses or partners when a relationship ends, whether by separation or death. Historically, a just division was synonymous with an equal (50/50) division. However, in the nearly five decades since the PRA was enacted, societal expectations around roles and financial dynamics between couples have evolved – highlighting that an equal division is not always fair. This article examines how the PRA can address these disparities by allowing for an unequal division of property in certain cases – specifically, by compensating parties for non-financial contributions where there are significant differences in earning capacity between partners (“economic disparity” or a “section 15” claim).
The starting point is an equal (50/50) split of relationship property which can include, bank accounts or shares, KiwiSaver, vehicles, properties, and chattels just to list a few. While liabilities can include any debts or loans accumulated by either or both parties during the relationship.
Even when the net equity of relationship property (assets minus debts) is substantial, dividing it equally may not redress the imbalance that may have occurred during the relationship. This is especially true when one partner has sacrificed their earning capacity to focus on other aspects of the relationship, enabling the other partner’s career to move ahead. In these instances, adjustments may need to be made after relationship property is divided but before it is distributed.
While the parties can reach their own agreement, the Court can direct compensation by way of a payment of a sum of money or the transfer property from one party’s share of the relationship property to the other party but only if the Court considers it ‘just’ to do so. However, the Court needs to be satisfied that following the end of the relationship, one partner is likely to have significantly higher income and living standards than the other, due to the division of functions during the relationship.
Factors that influence the Court’s decision as to whether there should be some form of compensation include the likely earning capacity of each party, the ongoing responsibility for any children of the parties, and other relevant factors such as the parties’ age and qualifications; whether the decision for one party to remain out of or delay returning to paid employment was made jointly; whether one party’s employment limited the other’s opportunities (such as relocating overseas); and whether the higher income of one party is attributable to separate property rather than relationship property.
If you find yourself navigating the end of a relationship, it's always good to know where you stand. Speaking to an experienced Family Lawyer who will be able to provide you with clarity and peace of mind, can help you make informed decisions. Whether you've focussed on delivering the non-financial contributions to your relationship or want to safeguard the separate property you brought into it, the friendly Family Law team at Schnauer and Co can help you understand your rights under the PRA.
North Harbour Club Auckland FC Lunch – Wednesday 3rd September
Has a brand-new sporting franchise ever captured the imagination quite like Auckland FC did in 2024 and 2025? Join us this early September at the Lexus of North Shore Charity Lunch for a unique opportunity to gain insider insight into how this remarkable success story was made possible.
Auckland FC CEO Nick Becker and Head Coach Steve Corica will be joined by two of their players as guest speakers for this North Harbour Club Lexus of North Shore Charity Lunch. The MC will be media personality Jason Pine, the voice of Football in New Zealand, as host of NewstalkZB Sport and Sky Sport’s lead Football commentator.
Nick Becker has more than two decades of experience as an international sports executive in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Prior to leading Auckland FC he worked at Arsenal FC, Manchester City FC, Melbourne FC as well as Nike and Puma.
Auckland FC’s inaugural coach Steve Corica was a player of some note, playing 430 games, scoring 67 goals and playing 32 internationals for Australia. He won the inaugural season of the A-League when he was captain of Sydney FC. Steve is no stranger to success, going on to win two A-League Championships as a player as well as one premiership. As a coach he has also won two A-League Championships and one Premiership.
Music Bingo on Wednesday 13th August
THIS WILL BE LOT OF FUN FOR EVERYONE!
Lexus of North Shore Auckland FC Lunch – Wednesday 3rd September, 11.45am for 12pm start. Venue: North Harbour Stadium – Tickets will sell out: Email info@northharbourclub.co.nz or visit northharbourclub.co.nz
It’s Bingo with a twist! Instead of numbers on your Bingo card it’s song titles. Complete a line and feel the thrill of shouting BINGO!
Get a team of six together or join a team on the night. Members pay $30 per head, non-members $40. Team of six pays $200. Pricing excludes GST. Includes Bingo, Fish & Chip Platter for the Table.
Music Bingo – Wednesday 13th August, from 5pm (Bingo starts 5.30pm). Venue: Regatta, Takapuna. Tickets limited: Email info@northharbourclub.co.nz or visit northharbourclub.co.nz
Auckland FC captain Hiroki Sakai and manager Steve Corica celebrate with the A-League Premier's Plate
Jason Pine
Nick Becker
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
Sunnynook Community Marathon and more
Our Sunnynook Community Marathon is on during September. We are now taking enrolments for the marathon, so get your group of friends/ workmates together and sign up today. The idea is that you walk around Sunnynook Park (or your neighbourhood) throughout the month of September and see how many marathons you can do. A marathon is 42km. Email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz to join in.
Community Association Meeting: Reminder: the Sunnynook Community Association will be holding a meeting for interested community members on Thursday 14 August at 7.00pm in the Sycamore Room (Sunnynook Community Centre) to discuss community projects, Neighbourhood Support and Crimewatch issues.
The Sunnynook Community Centre is undergoing renovations from early November 2025 for several weeks.
Shore Winter Food Drive: This August, we are collecting food items for the Shore Winter Food Drive. Some ideas for food donations: canned meats (tuna, corned beef), canned soups, baked beans, spaghetti, canned pasta sauce and canned tomatoes or other canned veggies, rice, pasta, and spreads such as peanut butter or jam. Non-food items: soap, dishwashing liquid, deodorants and shampoo. Items can be dropped off at the Sunnynook Community Centre office, Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 4.00pm.
Renovations: The Sunnynook Community Centre is undergoing renovations from early November 2025 for several weeks. Our regular hall hire user groups are looking for alternative venues from early November. If you think you have something that might be suitable, please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz and let us know the availability from early November to mid- to late December 2025. Please check out our website for up-to-date information about our classes and events. If you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our community newsletters, please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz.
At Shore Junction, we genuinely believe our volunteers are amazing. We know their time is precious, and we truly value every one of you who commits a few hours a week to working with young people. Your dedication makes a profound difference in the lives of the young people we work with.
For young people, knowing that members of their community are there for them, understand their issues, and want to help them excel, helps springboard them into the next chapter of their lives. The consistent presence of our volunteers and their willingness to listen, guide, and support provide an invaluable sense of stability and encouragement. Whether they're helping with homework, building a new bike together, or simply offering a friendly ear, their efforts create a positive and nurturing environment where our rangatahi can thrive.
…their efforts create a positive and nurturing environment where our rangatahi can thrive.
We are incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse and dedicated group of volunteers. This includes our amazing intern students from America, who bring fresh perspectives and an abundance of enthusiasm, enriching Shore Junction and broadening our horizons. We also deeply appreciate our youth work interns, who are gaining invaluable experience while contributing significantly to our daily operations and the well-being of our youth.
Every hour they give, every smile they share, and every piece of advice they offer help shape the future of young people. To find out more about volunteering at Shore Junction, contact info@shorejunction.nz or enquire online at shorejunction.nz/volunteer-at-shore-junction/.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
POWERED BY SOL AR
We’ve been part of the North Shore community for a long time. 2025 is our 37th 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
technology, a range of
we give back , and to top it all off we re powered by solar For more information contact Aidan Bennett , email: aidan@benefit z co nz or visit ww w.benefitz.co.nz
By Liz Ranger, Trust Manager, Pupuke Birdsong Project
Important work continues in August
July was a big month for Pupuke Birdsong Project. We celebrated Matariki and planted over 1,800 native seedlings across our local reserves – and the weather kindly helped by watering them all in! A huge thank you to everyone who braved the mud to plant, weed, or clear rubbish. Your mahi is appreciated, and we hope you feel proud of what we achieved together.
After such a full-on July, August will be a little quieter on the ground, but there’s still important work happening behind the scenes. Read on to learn how you can support our wider community.
Shore winter food drive
Winter can be tough. Many whānau across the Shore are feeling the pinch, and demand for support is rising. Emergency food banks and other frontline services are working hard, but most receive no government funding and rely on the generosity of our community.
Grace Samuelson from Pupuke Birdsong Project says, "The groups we partner with can distribute non-perishable food, toiletries, and cleaning products to those who need them most. If you're able to donate this August, please visit one of our 19 collection points across the Shore. Monetary donations are also welcome and go straight to the distributing organisation.”
The food drive is run by the Food Security Network (managed by Pupuke Birdsong Project) and Auckland Church Network. To find a drop-off location or donate online, visit: aucklandchurchnetwork.nz/ shore-winter-food-drive
Join our new youth-led park care group for ages 14–24. Please BYO gloves. Spare gloves can be provided on a non-returnable basis. Please take them home and bring them with you to subsequent events. Meet at the end of Auburn Street.
Stream care – Tree planting at William Souter Reserve, Sunday 31 August, 1 – 3pm
Join us in caring for the stream and reserve, and planting native seedlings. Please BYO gloves. Spare gloves can be provided on a non-returnable basis. Please take them home and bring them with you to subsequent events. With thanks to Auckland Council for the plants and the Healthy Waters team.
To book any of these events, scan the code, go to our website, or give us a call.
Tabitha Coleman, General Manager Devonport Business Association
Meet the faces behind the places
Ever wondered who runs your favourite Devonport business? Who’s behind the perfect flat white, the clever window displays, or the quiet consistency of a shop that’s been here longer than most of us have had email
One of the things I love most about Devonport is how personal it feels. It's not just a collection of shops and cafés — it’s a village of stories. Generations of families have built their livelihoods here. Others have taken bold leaps to try something new. Some are hidden gems. Others are local icons.
Devonport isn’t defined by the views or the villas. It’s defined by its people. And we think it’s about time they got the spotlight.
At the Devonport Business Association, we’ve recently launched a new Q&A series called Meet the Faces Behind the Places, a story-led celebration of the people who make this village tick. The interviews live on our Devonport Village Instagram and Facebook pages and offer a glimpse behind the scenes of the businesses we walk past every day.
So far, we’ve met the faces behind two of Devonport’s thriving Pilates studios: Victoria Homer from The Reformer Yard and Jeneal Rohrback from Frank Pilates. Different backgrounds, different styles, but both driven by a love for movement, community, and helping people feel their best. These kinds of businesses don’t just offer products or services, they shape our sense of place. And in a world that’s increasingly fast, flat, and digital, that’s something worth celebrating. If you’re on Instagram or Facebook, head to @devonportvillage to follow the series. And if there’s a local business owner you think we should feature — someone doing great things behind the scenes — email me at manager@devonport.co.nz. We’d love to hear from you. Because at the end of the day, Devonport isn’t defined by the views or the villas. It’s defined by its people. And we think it’s about time they got the spotlight.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
I.Lead and Yes Disability are go, go, go
Following the I.Lead 2025 Conference in June, our regional I.Lead committees around the country have had meetings to debrief from the conference. There were extensive discussions surrounding what attendees loved about the conference, what we could add to the next one, and our future goals.
Last week, a team from Westpac came to Shore Junction in Takapuna to meet with I.Lead Auckland members and deliver a financial literacy workshop. With the inequities in employment and financial independence that rangatahi whaikaha face, financial stability is a priority for many of them. One of the I.Lead attendees stated that this workshop "made me think about my spending in a whole new way".
As part of the commitment by Auckland One Rail (AOR) to making Auckland's train network more accessible for all customers, AOR recently invited I.Lead to attend a ‘Try before you Ride’ event at Panmure Station. I.Lead members were given a demonstration of how staff can assist disabled passengers and were shown ways we can use these services independently. Afterwards, the I.Lead members put together a list of ways AOR can continue to develop this accessibility initiative to make public transport accessible to everyone.
Participants of the I.Lead x William Pike Challenge went to SonSk8 Indoor Skatepark to give skateboarding a go. The participants enjoyed themselves and loved trying something new. Multiple participants discussed how they had been too scared to try skateboarding previously. However, the support of the SonSk8 team and I.Lead staff made them feel comfortable enough to give it a go. I.Drive once again hosts a North Shore workshop this month. I.Drive also continues to spread throughout the country, with workshops also being hosted in Waikato, Wellington, Dunedin, and Christchurch. The I.Drive licensing programme supports disabled people in gaining their licences by hosting theory workshops that explore the road code in an interactive and comprehensive manner. Check out our website to see when our workshops will be happening.
Yes Disability continues its Disabled Men’s Mental Health Group. We invite disabled men 18+ years old – who don’t often get to connect with other disabled men – to join other disabled men in discussing their mental health. This group was created by disabled men, for disabled men and aims to normalise the discussion of mental health challenges among disabled men. The sessions will occur once a month. Interested? Email Abdulla at abdulla@ yesdisability.org.nz.
For more information about our programmes and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz/ • facebook.com/ileadconferencenz instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • tiktok.com/@i.lead linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org
By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead
Meet the candidates - public meeting
Meet the candidates in Glenfield.
Meet and hear from local candidates for the Kaipatiki and Devonport-Takapuna Local Boards in the Auckland Council elections 2025. Know the candidate’s positions on the issues. Make wellinformed decisions when voting in this year's local elections. This event is hosted and organised by ANCAD, serving communities since 1974.
Date: Tuesday 26 August. Time: 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Venue: Glenfield Community Centre (Hall). A light supper will be available from 6pm. RSVP on Humanitix. Search ‘Meet the Candidates’. For more information, contact info@ancad.org.nz.
LiiFT Aotearoa professional development and training
Check out the LiiFT website for more information about sessions coming up for the NFP community.
Know the candidate’s positions on the issues. Make wellinformed decisions when voting in this year's local elections.
ANCAD's 2025 AGM
Date: August 20. Time: 12pm to 2pm. Venue: Harcourts Cooper & Co. Takapuna Auction Room. Light refreshments will be served.
We extend a warm welcome to all to attend the ANCAD annual general meeting. Join us as we reflect on a year of impact, share highlights from our programmes, and look ahead to new possibilities in our community. Hear from a guest speaker and join in some networking.
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
Population distribution on the North Shore 44 years ago, and today
The Takapuna area had sufficient population to became a city in 1966, with East Coast Bays in 1975 and Birkenhead in 1979, while Devonport and Northcote remained as boroughs. The earliest publicly available meshblock data for local population numbers and density is from the 1981 census, when the North Shore had a combined population of 135,505. As of June 2024, the estimated population of the North Shore was 258,697.
In 1981, Narrow Neck had a population density of 21.7 people per hectare (a hectare is around 2.47 acres), while Mount Victoria (Takarunga) had 28.3 and Stanley Bay 20.7 (including Devonport Naval Base); Devonport as a whole averaged 23.4. In 1956 Devonport Borough was the only borough on the North Shore to see a drop in population, and at that time had a population density of around 25 people per hectare, while Takapuna had just 14. Back in 1936, Devonport Borough had a population density of around 22.45 people per hectare.
By David Verran
By 1981, most Takapuna suburbs had now reached a similar population density to Devonport. Results for central Takapuna (20.4 density) now echoed that in Belmont (19.2) and Bayswater (23.6), along with Hauraki (26), Milford (25.9) and Westlake (a 10.5 density but the area included the Takapuna Golf Course, three secondary schools and North Shore Hospital). Elsewhere in the Takapuna area Crown Hill had 28.3 and Castor Bay 20.4. Access to the Auckland harbour bridge on and off ramps, and the Northern motorway, were now key factors, rather than close proximity to Takapuna or Milford Beaches.
In 1981 both Birkenhead and Northcote presented a complete reversal of the situation in 1925, when most of the population lived close to the ferry wharves. Around 67% of Northcote residents now lived north of Onewa Road, while around 64% of Birkenhead City residents now lived in either Beach Haven or Birkdale.
As with Takapuna, the East Coast Bays, to the east of East Coast Road, now had a similar population density to Devonport. Castor Bay had 20.4, Torbay 19.5, Waiake 21.4, Browns Bay 18, Rothesay Bay 16.4, Murrays Bay 17.9 and Mairangi Bay 24.5. The exceptions were Campbells Bay (including Centennial Park and the Pupuke Golf Course) with only 11.8, and undeveloped Long Bay at 0.5.
What is also interesting in 1981 is the growth of new suburbs. These included Wairau (16.4, including the industrial zone), Target Road (13.8, also including the industrial zone), Forrest Hill (24.6), Sunnynook (28.4) and Sunnybrae (17.7). Further west, there are Kaipatiki (23), Eskdale (15), Manuka (16.7), Hillcrest (29.2) and Glenfield Central (30.3). Northwards, rural Albany had just 1.1 (north) and 0.7 (south), while Greenhithe had 1.8. It wasn't until the 1990s that Albany and Greenhithe were opened up for suburban development.
At the 2013 census, the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board area had a population density of 26.3 people per hectare (over 30 in Hauraki and Sunnynook), while Kaipatiki had 24.4 (over 30 in each of Beach Haven, Eskdale, Bayview, Glenfield and Hillcrest). In comparison, across the harbour the Albert-Eden Local Board density was 33.4 and inner city Waitematā 39.8.
Today the population growth in both the Devonport-Takapuna and Kaipatiki Local Board areas has now plateaued, or even dipped slightly. The Auckland population is now expanding further north, as well as to the north-west and to the south.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
1423-0099, courtesy of Auckland Libraries Heritage's Rob Tucker Collection - Bayswater, Belmont and Hauraki in the 1980s, or 1990s.
with Lindsay Knight
Walker well equipped to tap the Harbour’s Bowls potential
John Walker, in his new role as representative team director, has been pro-active already in spearheading Bowls North Harbour’s resolve to achieve greater success at national team levels.
Walker, one of Harbour’s official “legends” and with 31 centre titles plus two national successes to his credit, is well equipped to tap the potential of those aspiring to higher honours. He especially has welcomed the challenge as he believes BNH has several very promising men and in particular women bowlers who can compete successfully against any other centres.
To do so he has recruited a strong team of well performed bowlers, many of whom are experienced as well as coaches, for the various selecting roles. Walker said he had been encouraged by their enthusiasm for the task ahead.
Takapuna life member, Murray Mathieson, and the centre’s most decorated player with 39 titles, Colin Rogan, have been appointed to the men’s open team, Charlie McDonald, from Milford, to the men’s development and Orewa’s Warren Seeque to the men’s one-to-five representatives.
Bob Telfer, from Takapuna, and Browns Bay’s Rona Turner, another with a gold star, have been appointed to the women’s open team, Grant Keats to the women’s development squad and Northcote stalwart Greg Taylor to the women’s one-to-fives.
Assisting with the women’s teams will be Judy McSweeney, Penny Wakelin and Keiko Kurohara.
The appointees have all enjoyed playing success at club, centre and even at national levels.
Mathieson has a Harbour gold star for winning five centre titles, and McDonald has a gold star from the Counties centre and has a Harbour title.
And many have played or coached at high levels in other sports. Mathieson was a New Zealand hockey representative in the 1960s, Keats has been a low handicap golfer and a teaching professional, and Telfer coached many top rugby sides, including Southland in the national provincial champion first division in 1998-99.
Walker is confident the team he has assembled share his vision of successfully building teams and creating an environment that players want to be part of. “To have so much experience now available is a real boost,” he says.
While he says not everything will be turned around overnight but with structures and support in place he’s expecting improved performances in the coming season.
The development teams will now be limited to one-to-ten-year bowlers; this had been essential to having the selection team working together because there were many players capable of playing in all three divisions.
In its 40 years existence as a centre, North Harbour’s successes in the national inter-centre competitions have been sparse. Indeed, its one and only win at open level was as far back as 2006 when the centre was boosted by the likes of Rowan Brassey and Danny O’Connor moving from Auckland.
There was a double that season with the men’s Development team winning the national title.
The one-to-eight-year representatives then had back-to-back wins in 2016-17 in the now discontinued national development competition. The Harbour women’s open team has also been close in recent years, generally thwarted by the strong Nelson teams led by two of the game’s greats, Jo Edwards and Val Smith.
Missing from the new coaching-selection team is Graham Dorreen, the winner of many “coach of the year” accolades. But for the coming season Graham, also a member of the Pauanui club, has opted to help his old friend Tim Preston with a Thames Valley development programme targeting high performance.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
John Walker
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 15 years ago!).
Oh, the wastage!
After last month’s column talking about the cycle path in Northcote, it was drawn to my attention that millions of dollars of houses were purchased by New Zealand Transport Agency (or it might have been Auckland Transport) for the foolish Labour Party plan of building the SkyPath.
The SkyPath was a bridge that was to be constructed beside the existing Auckland harbour bridge to take cyclists and pedestrians, at an estimated cost of one billion dollars. Another flawed plan by the Labour Government that we had to put up with for some six years. God what a sad period that was.
Anyway, these houses were purchased from the owners and then, according to my men in the field, when the SkyPath was cancelled, the properties were offered back to the previous owners at a reduced cost. I’d like to be corrected here but I believe that no one took up the repurchasing of them. According to my men at the coalface, one of the houses was severely damaged during Cyclone Gabrielle and I believe the demolition cost to remove the house from the site was $600,000 –an astronomical cost. But I may be corrected on these figures slightly so I would be interested if anyone knew the actual costings.
Looking at Queen Street it looked as if every concrete obstacle had been used to keep cars and people out of the place. And it has worked. It has absolutely strangled the CBD and brought businesses to their knees.
While we are talking about costings, I see in Narrow Neck Beach, Devonport, Auckland Transport is spending another $1,000,000 to build a slightly raised pedestrian crossing outside the Wakatere Boating Club. This is after Auckland Transport told the people of Devonport there would be no more raised crossings constructed in the foreseeable future. Again, a million dollars for a couple of weeks work, 4-5 truckloads of concrete, several square meters of tactile paving and of course the obligatory road control for several weeks. I can’t believe how a million dollars gets racked up and according to my sources you can hardly feel driving over it. So, what good it's done God only knows. We keep on having to put up with this stupidity all around town.
Let’s break these figures down to something we can all understand:
• Labour: six men working 10 hours a day is 60 hours per day.
• 60 hours per day multiplied by 15 working days is 900 man hours.
• 900 man hours at $100/hour – $90,000 labour
• 50 lineal meters of curbing – $5,000
• 50 square meters of red concrete chip – $5,000
• 15 square meters of tactile paving – $4,500
• 20 meters of ready-mix concrete, including black oxide – $7,000
• Line marking – $3,000
• Various consumables (allowing for excavation and existing tar seal removal) – $10,000
• Road control for three weeks (at $3,000 a day) – $60,000
• Other - $25,000
So that takes my rough budget to about $210,000. Maybe I’ve forgotten something else, so let’s add on another $100,000 which takes it to $310,000. Someone tell me why the budget is $1,000,000 according to my men in the field? I’ve been told by good authority that after they have constructed this raised crossing between the carpark and the sailing club at Narrow Neck, they intend to do another one some 100m away on the corner of Seabreeze Road and Old Lake Road, adjacent to the north end of the beach. Watch this space please.
I recently had to drop some documents to a lawyer’s office at the top of Queen Street. I decided to get dropped off as I didn’t know how long it was going to take and then wander down Queen Street and get the ferry back to Devonport. It was so sad walking down Queen Street and seeing the closed Smith & Caughey department store that had been in business some 140 years; surviving two world wars, the Great Depression and numerous economic downturns. Unfortunately, in the end it couldn’t survive the endless central rail line construction and the Covid lockdowns. Ending with Ardern’s 104 day lockdown of Auckland, the Auckland Transport maniacs who have laid waste to Queen Street and I guess people's changing buying habits.
Looking at Queen Street it looked as if every concrete obstacle had been used to keep cars and people out of the place. And it has worked. It has absolutely strangled the CBD and brought businesses to their knees. As I wandered back down Queen Street to the ferry buildings I was staggered by the empty shops and the homeless that lurked in doorways. One group looked like they had set-up a permanent camp in an empty store entrance. Across the road someone was having a screaming episode and numerous threatening looking individuals were wandering around presumably looking for trouble. To be honest it reminded me of the first scene out of Blade Runner with a gloomy rain in the neon signs. I felt mildly embarrassed as some tourist walked by and I wondered what they must be thinking about the state Queen Street.
I must admit Commercial Bay at the lower end of Queen Street is a wonderful development. Although I do wonder who shops there now that the number of international tourists has definitely declined. As I wandered back into the ferry buildings to catch the early evening ferry to Devonport it occurred to me that the demise of Queen Street and Smith & Caughey is a reflection of where New Zealand sits in 2025. For many reasons I doubt that Queen Street will return to its glory days and I am starting to wonder if our great little country will ever get back to where it used to be. Hopefully it will.
See you next month.
JIMMY O’BRIEN
General Manager | Director
M 021 979 001
E jimmy.o’brien@colliers.com
JANET MARSHALL
Director | Commercial
M 021 684 775
E janet.marshall@colliers.com
MATT PRENTICE
Director | Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 464 904
E matt.prentice@colliers.com
SHONEET CHAND
Director | Investment Sales
M 021 400 765
E shoneet.chand@colliers.com
RYAN DE ZWART
Associate Director
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 575 001
E ryan.dezwart@colliers.com
JACK TUSON
Associate Director
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 027 448 1148
E jack.tuson@colliers.com
MIKE RYAN
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 402 461
E mike.ryan@colliers.com
NICK RECORDON
Commercial Sales & Leasing
M 027 230 6751
E nick.recordon@colliers.com
BLAIR SMITH
Broker
Retail Sales & Leasing
M 021 294 0655
E blair.smith@colliers.com
Impressive momentum in property market
The North Shore commercial property market continues to show impressive momentum, with strong interest across both sales and leasing. Investor confidence remains high, driven by robust demand across a range of sectors.
Among the standout sales are two notable Albany transactions: 5 Beatrice Tinsley Crescent and 1-5 Cebel Place, demonstrating ongoing appetite for quality commercial assets in strategic locations.
Leasing activity has also been brisk. Gulf Harbour Montessori has taken up space at 37 Killarney Street, while the Co-Operative Bank is set to establish a new customer hub in Lake Road, Takapuna. Meanwhile, Immerse Care’s recent lease at 3 Ceres Court in Rosedale underscores the continued expansion of the education, health, and community services sectors.
Retail demand is gaining traction too, with several new leases finalised in Browns Bay, reflecting renewed confidence in local high street retail.
These recent deals highlight the depth and diversity of the North Shore market, which continues to attract occupiers and investors alike across key growth industries.
For any enquiries, please contact us or drop by our Colliers office located on Level 1, 129 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna.
Janet Marshall Director | Commercial
Janet Marshall, Director - Commercial
SOLD 1/1-5 Cebel Place, Albany SOLD 5 Beatrice Tinsley Cres, Albany
Lake Road, Takapuna - 684 sqm
Clyde Road, Browns Bay - 175 sqm
William Pickering Dr, Albany - 283 sqm
Killarney Street, Takapuna - 75 sqm
SERVICES ON THE SHORE
Interested in advertising in our Services on the Shore section? Contact:
15/12 Engineer? He's left mess found in corner of square (5,5,)
17 Indulgence of Lancelot losing head, excitedly embracing Queen (9)
20 Knight and beast having change of heart? "Cut!" (7)
21 Song in China, for example, unseemly after day ends (7)
25 Mad, bad, about 51, spontaneous (2-3)
26 Buck's firearms cocked (4)
27 Biblical figure drowned in cheese sauce? (4)
This month's crossword will also be uploaded to the creator’s blog at: mayaofauckland.substack.com
There, Mãyã will kindly attempt to answer any questions or comments that may arise from the crosswords each month.
The C-Class Sport Edition.
From $89,900 driveaway for a limited time*.
With its Night Package exterior accents, panoramic sunroof, AMG spoiler lip, and AMG 19” multi-spoke alloy wheels, the C-Class Sport Edition has a commanding presence. Refined yet dynamic, it’s as exciting to drive as it is to admire.
Discover the C-Class Sport Edition at Mercedes-Benz North Shore today.
