Milford Investment - Asking $1.68m + GST (if any)
Substantial Wairau Industrial Facility + Yard FOR SALE FOR SALE / LEASE
151 Kitchener Road, Milford, Auckland
37-41 Poland Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland
Shoneet & Matt have completed some significant deals across Auckland over the last quarter and have now achieved over $400 million in sales year-to-date. Highlights include the sale of the ex- Finance Centre in Auckland’s CBD for over $104 million and Woolworths Lincoln Road for approx $24m, both clear signs of renewed investor confidence in quality stock.
The first half of 2025 saw the New Zealand economy officially emerge from recession, with GDP growing 0.8% in Q1 and inflation easing into the Reserve Bank’s target band. This has allowed the RBNZ to cut the Official Cash Rate by 125 basis points to 3.00%, with further reductions expected before year-end. Lower borrowing costs, combined with resilient commodity exports and the Government’s new “Investment Boost” tax incentive, are set to encourage business investment and support steady growth through the remainder of the year.
Shoneet & Matt have also been jointly awarded the REINZ ‘Overall Commercial & Industrial Salesperson of the Year Award’ for 2025. This is the third year in a row that we have won this prestigious award, which is judged against all agencies Nationwide. A big thank you to all our loyal clients and hard working colleagues for their support each day. If you have any questions about the market or would like to discuss your requirements, please contact Matt or Shoneet on their details below.
Shore Surgery Specialist Day Hospital is one of the longestoperating and leading specialist day-stay hospitals dedicated to providing the North Shore and Rodney communities with highquality medical services.
For more than 27 years, the patient has been at the heart of everything we do at Shore Surgery. The hospital prides itself on delivering exceptional outcomes through a strong team of experienced specialists and nurses. This commitment has driven remarkable growth in both ophthalmic and gynaecology procedures over the past decade.
Ophthalmology patient numbers have increased from 1,029 in 2017 to 1,233 in 2025 – a 20% rise – with much of this growth coming from the more complex ophthalmic procedures. Gynaecology has seen the most dramatic growth, with patient numbers soaring from 87 in 2017 to 216 in 2025 – an exceptional increase of 148%.
Conveniently located on the Milford throughfare of Shakespeare Road, Shore Surgery offers a wide range of specialties, including diagnostic, interventional, and surgical procedures.
The suite of facilities includes two operating theatres, an admission suite and a five-bed recovery room fully equipped to meet the requirements of modern surgery. Combined with bespoke specialist equipment, Shore Surgery can perform 50 – 100 procedures per week, covering a wide range of specialties – from gastroenterology and endoscopy to ophthalmology, gynaecology, and cosmetic surgery.
The hospital is proudly part of Evolution Healthcare, a group
committed to improving access to high-quality healthcare. This forward-thinking approach ensures Shore Surgery remains a top choice for those seeking expert, patient-centred care. When you choose Shore Surgery, you're choosing a hospital with a proven track record of excellence and a clear vision for the future of private healthcare in the North Shore.
Speaking of the future, Shore Surgery is poised to continue its tradition of growth and innovation – with some welcome investment. That’s why we’re excited to announce that initial plans are underway to replace Shore Surgery with a brand-new, purpose-built facility that will even better service the Northshore and Rodney areas. Watch this space for more details on timelines and locations.
Until then, nothing changes at Shore Surgery with our commitment to providing you the very best in care.
We look forward to seeing you.
Occupying an elevated, private position on one of Takapuna’s most tightly held beachfront addresses, 26 Blomfield Spa offers an unrivalled blend of seclusion, convenience, and spectacular sea views.
Completed in 2020 by Lindesay Construction, this Sumich-Chaplin-designed residence is an extraordinary example of beachfront living at its finest. Crafted with meticulous care and precision, this masonry and STO home also features a concrete mid-floor, ensuring both architectural elegance and long-term durability for the most discerning buyer. The home is still under Lindesay’s 10 Year warranty.
The home comprises five air-conditioned double bedrooms, including a ground-floor guest suite and four bedrooms upstairs. The spectacular
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
master suite is a sanctuary, complete with its own lounge with tea and coffee facilities, lavish marble ensuite with a picturesque bath with a view, and breathtaking sea views over Takapuna Beach.
Two stunning living areas provide excellent separation for family living and entertaining. The main dining and lounge space flows seamlessly to a beachfront terrace wrapping around both sides of the home, where a fully tiled marble pool and spa offer resort-style relaxation. High-stud ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glazing flood the interiors with natural light, while the second lounge offers the perfect media room or teenage retreat.
The open-plan kitchen is an entertainer’s dream, centred around a striking marble island and complemented by a generous butler’s pantry, premium
Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com
Phone: 021 747 334
Over $1.24B Billion total sales
Sub-Zero and Miele appliances and impeccable detailing. A dedicated office caters to those working from home.
Offering a blend of unparalleled comfort and style, with superb attention to detail, underfloor heating throughout the lower level, stairs and bathrooms, stone-tiled entryway, high-end architectural joinery, exquisite cabinetry, Chant hardware and finishes with uncompromising quality.
The property also includes a boat shed for kayaks, paddleboards, and small yachts, secure gated entry, a double internal garage, and additional off-street parking.
Providing an uncompromised beach lifestyle, walk to the beach, shops, cafes, and the mall, and with easy access to motorway and Auckland CBD, making it equally perfect for a luxurious full-time family home or a highend, lock-up-and-leave retreat. Call us for a viewing today.
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.
It’s September and things are warming up! We are proud to present another hot issue of Channel Mag. 108 pages full of reading – with something for everyone!
As usual we’ve got great interviews with loads of Shore people. There are some of the very best retirement lifestyle villages located right here on the Shore. In our Q&A feature for this issue we talk to four active residents about their hobbies and retirement lifestyles.
Christine Young has done an interesting interview with Devonport architect Julie Stout. Her recent efforts around conveying ideas for the future of Devonport village are very interesting.
Paula Arblaster has done an excellent piece on Shaun Quincey who has put up his hand to succeed Fantail & Turtle’s Travis Field as chair of the Big Buddy charity. Well known for rowing the Tasman as a young fellow, Shaun has enjoyed success in business and is now giving back. It’s heartwarming.
I’ve caught the “Padel bug”. For this issue I was tasked with interviewing Julian Brown about his growing Pacific Padel business
Publisher/Advertising
that will install three Padel courts in central Takapuna in coming months. I visited their existing courts in Albany and had a hit – and I’m hooked. This will be a wonderful addition to the vibrancy of Takapuna.
During my short political career the future of the Takapuna Boating Club’s Bayswater facility was something we were always keen to solve. I was involved in early discussions with MP Simon Watts three or four years ago about the need to change legislation. It is a thrill to see that this has now been achieved at long last, which means the building can be commercially leased and restored. I talk to Simon Watts and Takapuna Boating Club Commodore Wendy Baker about this change and the club’s plans for the landmark building. Well done Simon on making this happen!
Enjoy your FREE Channel Mag and have a great September!
Aidan
Bennett, QSM Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder & Managing Director, Benefitz aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Advertising/Content Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz
Advertising/Content Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz
Designer Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz
Online and Social Media Klaudia 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.
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.
Zero Waste Wairau Hub, at 9 Porana Road, Glenfield, has just extended its Secondhand Saturday hours; they're now 9am to 4pm. Support the recycling and upcycling movement and find yourself some treasures! Zero Waste Hub recycles and upcycles items donated or picked up in collections, so they can then be reused by community groups or sold in their onsite shop on Saturdays. Localised.nz/ our-enterprises/wairau-zero-waste-hub.
Support the Silver Ferns on 21 September at Eventfinda Stadium in Wairau Valley as they play the South Africa Proteas in the Taini Jamison Trophy series. Tickets have sold out, but if you missed out, make sure you follow the game on Sky. Sign up so you get pre-sale notifications next time at silverferns.co.nz And keep an eye on what’s happening at Eventfinda Stadium eventfindastadium.co.nz/events.
DYSTOPIAN?
It’s always worthwhile checking out upcoming events at Takapuna Library. This month they have visiting US author Bonivon Dyer, speaking about her dystopian novel ‘Lest they have eyes’ on Sunday 7 September, 3-4pm. There’s a raft of other monthly group events like Crochet Corner, Meditation group, Senior digital class, as well as the one-off author events. Check out aucklandlibraries.govt. nz and search for your local library to see what else is happening.
The Sherwood Reserve parkrun is a volunteer-run, free community event that happens every Saturday at 8am at Sherwood Reserve, 145 Glencoe Road, Browns Bay. It’s open to everyone to walk, jog, run, or simply watch. Bring the kids and the dog (dogs on a short leash, kids under 11 within an arm's reach!) You won’t be too old or too slow; they have participants in their 80s, and even the tail walker will normally complete the 5km course in a little over an hour. You need to register first at parkrun.co.nz/ sherwoodreserve and once you’ve tried the event, maybe think about volunteering too.
The Northcote Tavern – lovingly known as The Troff – is world famous on the North Shore, in my opinion, and now you can have even more fun alongside the great food and drinks served in this historic pub. Every Thursday night from 7pm, the tavern comes alive with karaoke hosted by the one and only Brodie – a great way to liven your spirits as you end the working week. facebook.com/northcotetavern/
DREAD HOLIDAYS?
School holidays are almost here again! If you’ve got a Legoloving kid aged 5 to 12, consider a Bricks 4 Kidz Lego Steam holiday programme at the Takapuna Creativity Centre, 34 Barrys Point Road. Kids get to explore Lego challenges, robotics, coding, science experiments, and more. Check it out at bricks4kidz.co.nz/auckland-lns/
Get your pooches ready for Auckland’s number one dog event taking place in Takapuna town square (Waiwharariki Anzac Square) on 18 October, 10am-3pm. Barking Mad is a dog day out complete with a dog show, dog races, a market filled with doggy delights, and live music. Check it out at eventfinda.co.nz/2025/ barking-mad-in-takapuna-2025/auckland/ north-shore.
Photo credit: Nomad Media @shenomads
It’s been great to see so many Auckland Instagrammers crossing the bridge and queuing up to try the Bakel’s Supreme Pie award-winning Potato Top Pie at Rosedale Bakery and Café, 215 Rosedale Road. Well done to Samraksmey So and the team, and if you’re visiting to try the pie, make sure you get a legendary sausage roll as well!
The PumpHouse Theatre held its AGM on Wednesday 20 August – a warm reminder of why this special place means so much to the North Shore community. It was a reflective evening, with chairperson Peter Burn stepping down after many years of service, and also a celebration, with the honouring of new life members, Tessa Duder CNZM OBE, Frank Graveson, and Jilly Thomas. Business manager James Bell and his team were acknowledged for another successful year of delivering a range of shows and programmes, which keep The PumpHouse the most thriving, vibrant and well-attended community theatre on the North Shore. Patrons Tina Cross ONZM and Sir Roger Hall KNZM QSO were in attendance. Sir Roger gave a fascinating talk about his life, creative wisdom, and thoughts on the future of theatre, which left everyone inspired for the year ahead. His inaugural play, 'Glide Time', celebrates 50 years since its first production next year. A special anniversary extended production will grace the boards of The PumpHouse in September-October 2026 to mark this huge theatrical milestone. For details and tickets, visit pumphouse.co.nz/glide – this will be a sell-out!
& Dedicated to securing the right buyer for your propertydelivering the best outcome for my vendors.
Visitors to the AFS Intercultural Programmes student exchange expo on Sunday 24 August were quite literally taken 'round the world'! The event was visited by a wide range of Auckland students and parents, as well as some travelling from further afield. New Zealand's original student exchange organisation put on a fantastic display of intercultural exchange opportunities for young Kiwis. Returnee students showcased their experiences in over 20 countries, from Asia to Europe, and Africa to the Americas. There were presentations, food, and lots of inspiring conversation. AFS believes in the power of cultural exchange to create a more just and peaceful world, and its mission is to inspire the next generation of global citizens. Visit afs.org.nz
With your support I will continue to secure investment in our community, protect our environment, action your requests and ensure we plan for the next generation.
Learn more ➡ www.richardhills.org.nz
Authorised by Richard Hills contact@richardhills.org.nz
Shore Travel hosted a free travel info evening on Tuesday 12 August at the Pupuke Golf Club, attended by nearly 100 locals. Everyone enjoyed a relaxed yet vibrant evening with delicious nibbles and drinks while exploring exciting travel opportunities. Exhibitors offered valuable insights into future adventures, with expert advice and inspiring ideas shared throughout the night. Happy guests left feeling informed and inspired, ready to plan their next journey with confidence. It was a successful and fun evening of connection, discovery and travel inspiration.
Some of the best moments are shared over food. Swiping biscuit dough when Grandma’s not looking, trying to master Dad’s famous cheese toasties, or laughing with friends at Sunday brunch – these are the memories that last.
That’s why, we’re giving you 10,000 New World Dollars when you sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse by 30 September 2025.*
We’ll cover the grocery bills, so you can spend less time worrying about what’s in the trolley and more time enjoying who’s around the table.
And because life at Ryman means less home maintenance, you’ll have even more time for the things you love.
10,000
*Participating villages only, promotion terms and Clubcard terms and conditions apply.
1 Bedroom Apartments from $625k
2 Bedroom Apartments from $800k
Welcome to Elementum, a collection of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments just a stone’s throw from Auckland’s best beach, the beautiful Long Bay. Thoughtfully designed with natural, raw materials, dual balconies for ‘through living’, and lush gardens with communal spaces, Elementum fosters serenity to relax and socialise. With the amenity and community of Long Bay Village right on your doorstep, it’s the perfect place for the ultimate city–coastal lifestyle.
Fully staged apartments available for viewing.
Visit website for open home times
This spring, The PumpHouse stage becomes The PumpHouse shed as Phoenix Theatre brings Michelle Amas’ acclaimed comedy The Pink Hammer to life. A Kiwi favourite with warmth and hilarity, the play takes audiences into the world of four women who sign up for a carpentry class, only to discover that their tutor has disappeared and the only one left to pick up the pieces and lead the workshop is the reluctant Woody, a gruff carpenter.
The humour comes not only from the clash of personalities, but from the deeper stories each character brings with them. Beneath the gang-nails and ginger crunch, 'The Pink Hammer' is about reinvention, resilience, and the surprising ways people can build each other up when life takes them apart.
For Phoenix Theatre, producing the show is both a chance to highlight a sharp and witty New Zealand play and to celebrate the strength of community theatre. With a cast of five stacked with Shore locals, the production balances quick-fire comedy with moments of real poignancy that may even catch audiences off guard. It is a play that will make you laugh out loud, but it also touches on themes that stir genuine emotion and connection.
Director Kate Birch and the creative team has leaned into the play’s workshop setting, with a set designed to feel like a real backyard shed, complete with tools, workbenches, and the half-finished projects of life. It is a world the audience can almost smell: sawdust, paint and old engine oil.
'The Pink Hammer' is a timely reminder that while life may not come with a manual, there is
strength to be found in humour, resourcefulness and connection. Much like carpentry, it is often about working with what you have and finding a way to make it fit.
The
humour comes not only from the clash of personalities, but from the deeper stories each character brings with them.
Phoenix Theatre invites audiences to join in the fun at The PumpHouse, Takapuna from 30 October to 8 November. Tickets are on sale now, and as any carpenter will tell you: measure twice, cut once, and don’t miss the chance to see this Kiwi gem brought to life on stage.
The Pink Hammer, pumphouse.co.nz 30 October – 8 November
Spring has arrived at The PumpHouse Theatre, and just like the park that surrounds us, we’re bursting with colour, energy, and a little bit of mischief. Inside our gorgeous brick walls, stories are about to blooooom!
We kick off September with a free Creative Talk featuring none other than Jackie Clarke, MNZM – a diva, a dynamo, and a legend of the Aotearoa entertainment industry. Later in the month, on 22 September, our next free Creative Talk features retired policeman turned novelist Dave Andrews, who will share tales about his journey of becoming an author and his first published book, 'Time and Time Again'.
But the entertainment doesn’t stop there. On 13 September, Grupo Sa-Son will turn up the heat with 'Latin Orchestra Showcase' that’s all rhythm, rumba, and reasons to dance. And the very next day, 14 September, Linn Lorkin’s dazzling one-woman show 'Hey Piano Bar Lady!' sweeps us to the smoky bars of 1970s New York for an afternoon of fascinating and humorous stories.
Then comes the school holidays, when the theatre practically fizzes with chaos (the good kind). From 23–27 September, bring the whole whānau to 'It’s Alive!' – a fully improvised show for kids with live puppetry and real science experiments! From 25–28 September, dice decide the fate in 'Can I Get an Underground Location and a Mythical Creature?', a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired improv hit. And from 30 September – 4 October, nursery rhymes get shaken, not stirred, in 'Ispy', a zany spy musical where Humpty Dumpty is more villain than victim.
So whether you’re craving Latin grooves, a piano-bar confessional, or family-friendly enjoyment, spring at The PumpHouse has got it all. See you at the theatre!
Mauri ora.
James Bell
Depot with Amy Saunders
Tēnā koutou, and welcome to September! This month we're excited to announce our new partnership with My Art, a new exhibition at Depot Artspace and Maker of the Month in the Depot Shop | Toi Toa. Read on to find out more!
We are excited to announce our new partnership with My Art, a non-profit organisation offering art collectors interest-free loans and returning profits to the community via charitable donations to art organisations around Aotearoa. Visit myart.co.nz for more info and to apply for your loan today!
Depot Artspace
Siah Finai: 'Vānimonimo' opens 20 September, 2-4pm. This exhibition features a collection of sculptural and painted works that explore the Sāmoan concept of Vā, the sacred relational space that binds people, land, ocean and ancestry. Stretching across vast waters, this space is not empty, but alive with memory, movement and meaning. For tāngata Pasefika, the ocean is not a void; it is a connective tissue, a vast blue pathway through which histories flow and futures are imagined.
Jennifer Mason: 'The Boundary of the Intelligible' is on until 13 September, and features a series of finely rendered canvas paintings which reflect on the soul’s position at the boundary between the physical and intelligible realms. Be sure to come check it out while it's still on!
Depot 3 Vic Road
September is the busiest birthday month of the year, so pop down to our gorgeous shop and gallery at 3 Vic Road, where you can find quality, unique and locally made gifts. Perfect for Father’s Day is our September Maker of the Month, Colin McKay, whose range of watercolour prints shares a deep fascination with the beauty and variety of fish – in all their colours, shapes and sizes!
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!
In today’s fast-paced world, driving is more than a convenience – it’s a vital life skill that opens doors to independence, employment, and personal freedom. For residents of Auckland’s North Shore, Focus Driving School has become a trusted name in driver education, known for its personalised instruction, experienced instructors, and commitment to creating safe, confident drivers for life.
A school built on experience and trust
Located at Smales Farm in Takapuna, Focus Driving School offers a comprehensive range of driving lessons for learners of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a teenager preparing for your first licence, an adult needing an overseas licence conversion, or someone seeking a truck licence for career advancement, Focus Driving School provides expert guidance every step of the way.
What sets Focus apart is its team of highly qualified instructors, each bringing a wealth of experience and a calm, supportive teaching style that puts learners at ease.
Meet the instructors
Peter Mcgaffney is the school’s lead instructor for truck class 2 and 4 licensing and Class 1 car lessons. With 14 years of experience as a New Zealand driver licensing testing officer, Peter holds NZTA qualifications for heavy vehicle instruction across Classes 2 to 5. His deep understanding of road safety and vehicle operation makes him an invaluable resource for students pursuing truck licences. Known for his calm and patient manner, Peter ensures that even the most nervous learners feel supported and capable Tania, another standout instructor, is praised by students for her clear communication and relaxed teaching style. One recent review described her as “very calm and easygoing”, adding that she made the process of preparing for a full licence “stress-free and enjoyable”. Tania’s ability to connect with learners and build their confidence is a cornerstone of the school’s success.
Lessons tailored to you
Focus Driving School offers both automatic and manual driving lessons, allowing students to choose the transmission type that best suits their goals. Manual lessons are ideal for those seeking greater control and versatility, while automatic lessons provide a smoother learning curve for beginners. Lesson options include:
• Single auto or manual lesson – $80.
• Weekday special (auto/manual) – $70 (available Monday to Friday, 9:00am–3:00pm).
• Five-lesson packages – $320 for either auto or manual lessons This is a special price until 30 September 2025.
Lessons are available weekdays and weekends between 8:00am and 6:00pm, with flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lives. Students can meet instructors at Smales Farm or opt for pick-up and drop-off services for added convenience.
For those looking to expand their driving qualifications, Focus Driving School offers Class 2 and Class 4 truck licensing, taught by Peter Mcgaffney. These courses are ideal for individuals entering the transport industry or upgrading their existing licences. With Peter’s extensive background in licensing and instruction, students receive thorough training that prepares them for both the practical and theoretical components of truck driving.
Preparing for success
Focus Driving School doesn’t just teach students how to drive; it prepares them to pass their tests with confidence. The school offers:
• Learner theory sessions, covering essential road rules and safety practices.
• Mock tests and feedback, helping students understand what to expect and how to improve.
• Guidance on test readiness. Instructors provide honest, constructive feedback to ensure students are fully prepared.
Learning to drive can be daunting, but Focus Driving School creates an environment where students feel supported and encouraged. The instructors are not only technically skilled but also emotionally attuned to the needs of their learners. Whether it’s calming nerves before a test or patiently explaining a tricky manoeuvre, the team is committed to helping each student succeed.
As a locally owned and operated business, Focus Driving School is deeply invested in the safety and wellbeing of the North Shore community. Their mission is to create responsible drivers who contribute positively to the road environment. This community focus is reflected in their personalised approach, flexible scheduling, and commitment to excellence.
The school’s reputation is backed by glowing testimonials. One student shared: “Tania was excellent during the process leading up to me going for my full licence. She was very calm and easygoing. Overall, Tania is a great instructor. Five-star service; couldn’t be happier”
Another praised Peter’s professionalism and depth of knowledge, noting that his experience as a licensing officer gave them confidence in their training and test preparation.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your licence, Focus Driving School is ready to guide you. With expert instructors, flexible packages, and a supportive learning environment, it’s no wonder they’re the North Shore’s premier choice for driver education.
To learn more or book your first lesson, visit focusdrivingschool.co.nz or call 021 220 4645. Take the first step toward confident, safe driving. With Focus Driving School, you’re in expert hands.
Well regarded for bringing good governance and a professional approach to local decision making, A Fresh Approach are a highly-skilled six-person team of local leaders ready to serve the community.
Scott MacArthur: A qualified town planner and certified hearings commissioner, Scott is skilled at navigating the regulatory processes and legislative rules that underpin development. As our area grapples with growth, he’ll be a strong advocate for community and a champion of quality urban design.
Kimberly Graham: A project manager with Access Matters Aotearoa and advisor on universal design, Kimberly brings a unique lens to the table, having raised a child with acute needs requiring the use of a powerchair. She knows the importance of accessible, safe and inclusive public spaces, so that they work for everyone.
Terence Harpur: Current Deputy Chair of the Devonport- Takapuna Local Board, Eventfinda Stadium trustee and CEO of ‘I Love Takapuna’, Terence is well regarded for his professional, no-nonsense approach to getting things done. With his eyes always on the dollar, he is a squeaky wheel for careful spending. He cares deeply about the place his family calls home and looks forward to another three years serving the community.
Karin Horen: Author, life coach, and passionate paddle boarder, Karin cares about building resilient communities. Bringing skills in strategy, change management and public-facing leadership, she’s ready to advocate for those still feeling the impacts of the Auckland Anniversary floods.
Lewis Rowe: Local business owner and TGS Alumni, Lewis understands the challenges and opportunities facing small enterprises. Known for building trusting relationships he cares deeply about localism and creating local opportunities for young and old alike.
Karleen Reeve: Former Chairperson of the Devonport Community House and founder of the North Shore Blue Greens, Karleen is devoted to the environment. In particular she hopes to champion sustainable fishing practise in the Hauraki Gulf, and promoting environmental stewardship at a neighbourhood level.
It’s time for a new era in leadership and we’re asking for your vote. 6 ticks for A Fresh Approach means:
Quality professional governance: A highly skilled board who will work constructively with the Council to get more done – we are about governance, not politics.
A healthy environment: Protecting and enhancing our natural environment, parks and waterways, and reducing our contribution to climate change.
Community wellbeing: Supporting events, sports and the arts, celebrating diversity, removing barriers to participation and increasing opportunities to learn and connect.
Thriving economy: Vibrant town centres supporting a variety of local businesses and economic opportunities that everyone feels proud of.
Financial responsibility: Sensible spending of public money.
Universal Design: Ensuring inclusivity is championed within decision making, as well as creating and enhancing spaces for people of all abilities to enjoy.
Learn more about us by scanning the QR code or visiting our website www.afreshapproach.co.nz www.facebook.com/afreshapproachDTLB
Vote A Fresh Approach.
Now from $64,990 + ORC
Super-charged value for all with Savings of $5,000 off RRP $69,990. Offer ends 30th September 2025, only while stocks last.
New Zealand’s first-ever full hybrid 4x4 ute just got even more electrifying. Now available with a powerful Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) variant, the all-new Cannon Alpha is rewriting the rule book once again.
Test drive today at GWM North Shore. 1060km
Let’s be honest, a colonoscopy probably isn’t top of your list of “fun things to do.” The thought of the procedure, the preparation, and the waiting can often feel overwhelming. But it’s a small step that can make a big difference to your health, your future, and you and your family's peace of mind.
Early detection often leads to better outcomes, and we understand that waiting for a procedure can be a stressful and uncertain time on top of any symptoms. Hence we have been working really hard to solve the problem of timely access and are proud to be able to offer confirmed appointments within seven working days for most standard colonoscopy and gastroscopy procedures, when you let us match you with the availability of our 19 experienced specialists.
With a focus not just on reduced wait times, but also on providing exceptional endoscopy care, a valid question might be, "Is a colonoscopy, just a colonoscopy anywhere?". At Waitemata Endoscopy, we regularly undertake audits of our colonoscopy quality against international standards for every endoscopist in our group. Against key performance indicators for clinical quality including polyp detection rates (for abnormal growths), our results consistently exceed these benchmarks by 10-15%. So, the decision is yours, in terms of who you would prefer to perform your colonoscopy if you have to have this procedure, ideally just once!
Just as important as clinical quality, the quality of our patients' experience of our care also matters to us. From the results of our most recent patient survey, over 99% of responses said that they would recommend us to their family and friends if they needed an endoscopy, which reflects our dedication to excellence and passion for what we do.
From our bookings team, to our endoscopy nurses, and experienced team of gastroenterologists and surgeons, our team is passionate about supporting you through each stage of your endoscopy procedure with empathy and professionalism. So, take action for your health, and let us help you 'get to the guts of it' within seven working days for your peace of mind.
To take a video tour of our clinics and the patient journey, head to our website at waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/locations
Ngā manaakitanga (best wishes).
Sarah McNamara
Quality Coordinator, Waitemata Endoscopy.
With increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy is able to offer timelier access to a group of experienced Gastroenterologists and Surgeons
Appointments are available within 7 working days for most Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy procedures by matching you with the availability of our experienced Specialists* Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self-refer at:
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz
Buona Sera Restaurant
99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz
Cafe Hung Viet
101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. caféhungviet.co.nz
Calimero
163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. calimero.co.nz
Corellis
46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafé.co.nz
Devonport Indian Hub - The Asian Eatery
71 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4263. devonportindianhub.co.nz
Devon on the Wharf
1 Queen's Parade. 09 445 7012. devononthewharf.nz
Flying Rickshaw
97 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7721. flyingrickshaw.co.nz
Manuka Cafe and Restaurant
49 Victoria Rd. 09 445 7732. manukarestaurant.co.nz
Portofino Devonport
26 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3777. portofinodevonport.co.nz
Signal Hill
24 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0193. signalhill.co.nz
So French Café
10 Victoria Rd. 09 963 9218. sofrenchcafénz.com
Stone Oven
5 Clarence St. stoneoven.co.nz
Taupo Indian Cuisine
The essence of Indian hospitality, flavours and culture. 161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546. taupoindian.co.nz
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 and 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.
Opening hours: Tues-Fri 4pm-late
Saturday & Sunday 10am-late 09 446 6444
hello@vondel.co.nz www.vondel.co.nz
instagram Instagram @vondel_akl facebook facebook.com/vondelakl
The Kestrel
1/1 Queens Parade, Devonport Wharf. 09 445 1777. thekestrel.co.nz
The Next Station Chinese Cuisine
41 Victoria Rd. 09 200 0683
The Patriot (Pub)
14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz
Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar
53/55 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz
Vondel
8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz
Caffé Santini
63c Lake Rd, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com
Daily Bread
43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz
Hauraki Social Club
Level 1, 335 Lake Rd, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Sheppards Corner
131 Lake Rd, Belmont. 09 447 4377. sheppardsnz.com
XO Takapuna
333 Lake Rd, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com
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.
10 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 963 9218
sofrenchcafénz@gmail.com sofrenchcafénz.com facebook instagram #sofrenchcafédevonport
Opening hours: Tues to Sun 8am-3pm
Alforno Italian Restaurant
34 Anzac St. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz
Aubergine Restaurant
129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz
Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar
8 Anzac St. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz
Burger Burger
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 390 5348. burgerburger.co.nz
Centro Café
447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277. centrocafe.co.nz
Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta
Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz
DoDo Sushi & Donburi
448 Lake Rd. 09 488 7527
El Humero
Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz
Florrie McGreals Irish Pub
138 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz
Flourish Café
19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz
French Rendez-Vous
2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caférestaurant.business.site
Hanoi Haven
40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz
Hong's Korean Kitchen
Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz
Hops & Claret Drinkery
136 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 6330. hopsandclaret.co.nz
Nanam
178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz
Regatta Bar & Eatery
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
Sakebar Nippon
32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz
St Marée Bistro
8/33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. stmaree.co.nz
Street Organics
1 Byron Ave. 09 216 5991. streetorganics.co.nz
Takapuna Beach Cafe
22 The Promenade. takapunabeachcafé.co.nz
Taylors on Hurstmere 168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz
Tok Tok Kitchen
129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3988. toktok.co.nz
Tokyo Bay
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz
Wok 'n Noodle
1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com
Fantail & Turtle 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 09 972 9060. thegrangetakapuna.co.nz
Anokha Indian Restaurant
140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz
Cave À Vin
146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz
Khu Khu Eatery
91 Kitchener Rd. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz
La Mexicana
13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz
Monthien Thai Restaurant
142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz
Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford
212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant. co.nz
PYM's of Milford
154 Kitchener Rd. 021 413 850. pymsofmilford.com
Stanley Avenue
52 East Coast Rd. 09 410 0066. stanleyavenue.co.nz
Talay Thai Restaurant
83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz
The Hub Milford Bar & Grill
145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz
The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant
7 Milford Rd. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz
Clarence Rd Eatery
124 Queen St. 09 480 9600. clarencerdeatery.nz
Northcote Tavern
37 Queen St. 09 480 7707. northcotetavern.co.nz
Stafford Road Wine Bar
141 Queen St, Northcote Pt. 09 480 2690. staffordroadwinebar.co.nz
The Engine Room
115 Queen St. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz
Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano
13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz
Birkenhead Brewing Company
17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi
Blitza Pizza
9 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 5006. blitzapizza.co.nz
Broke Boy Taco
32 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead. Brokeboytaco.com
Burrito House
17 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 2095. burritohouse.co.nz
Chef Rasa Sayang
Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Rd. 09 419 9788
Duo / Osteria Uno
138-140 Hinemoa Street. duoeatery.co.nz 027 213 8591/027 421 6401. osteriauno.co.nz
Fika With Me
5 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme
Moxie Restaurant
82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz
Mulan Malaysian Restaurant
243 Hinemoa St. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz
Primerose Thai Cuisine
6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz
Real Burger
30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site
Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant
52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz
Thai Yum Food Hut
23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz
The Curry Master 18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead
The Good Home
83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz
21 Days Bar & Brasserie 37 Clyde Rd. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz
El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery 1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz
Long Bay Surf Club 4/56 Bounty Rd. 09 473 0908. longbaysurfclub.co.nz
Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar 1 Montrose Terrace, Mairangi Bay. 09 478 9610. montrose.org.nz
Paper Moon 437 Beach Rd, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872. papermoon.org.nz
Ristorante La Spiaggia Italian. 470 Beach Rd, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643. laspiaggia.co.nz
Hanoi Haven brings bold Vietnamese flavours to Hurstmere Road. Celebrate Hanoi Haven’s one-year anniversary with exciting new dishes, signature cocktails and warm hospitality. From crispy prawns to coconut coffee, it’s a vibrant dining experience with gluten-free and vegan options. Open daily at the entry to Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna.
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
40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna | 09 263 6393 | hello@hanoihaven.co.nz | hanoihaven.co.nz Open 7 days, 11am till late
Hanoi Haven – exotic flavours with a modern twist
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
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.
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!
1/129 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna. 09 489 3988, toktokkitchen@gmail.com, toktok.co.nz facebook toktakapuna Opening hours: Mon 5pm-late, Tues-Sun 12pm-late
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.
100 Hurstmere Road, 095585775
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. Supreme Winner - NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz instagram fantailandturtle
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. Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. tokyobay.co.nz facebook tokyobaytakapuna
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 hello@hopsandclaret.co.nz hopsandclaret.co.nz facebook @HopsandClaret
Open: 11am - Late - Everyday facebook: Benny's American Burgers NZ instagram: bennysamericanburger.nz bennysburgers.co.nz
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.
Christmas bookings now being taken.
168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510
Licenced Eatery
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.
40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz
Open 7 days, 11am to late.
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
facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna
Real food that feels good. Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. At Street Organics, we serve real food with clean ingredients you can recognise. From fresh veggies to house-made goodies, everything is prepared with care. Gluten-free, vegan, keto or simply hungry, there’s something here for you. Come eat, feel nourished and enjoy!
Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm; Sat-Sun 8am-3.30pm 1 Byron Avenue, Takapuna 09 216 5991 contact@streetorganics.co.nz streetorganics.co.nz facebook streetorganicsnz instagram @streetorganics_nz
Flourish Café provides training and work experience for young adults with learning differences. When you order your favourite coffee and choose from our delicious, fresh cabinet food, you will always be served with a smile. Support our trainees by coming into Flourish Café. Catering available.
19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266
instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz
facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz
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.
447a Lake Road, Takapuna 09 200 2277 centroauckland@gmail.com facebook @centrotakapuna instagram @centrotakapuna
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 facebook: @stmaree.co.nz instagram: @stmaree.co.nz
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
Contact the team today WANT YOUR CAFÉ/ RESTAURANT TO BE NOTICED?
Sign up for your 6th-page ad for the year for just $120+gst per issue. Full-page feature reviews can be booked for $990+gst (normally $1,450+gst)
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz 021 204 3395
Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz 021 419 468
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
info@longbaysurfclub.co.nz longbaysurfclub.co.nz instagram facebook: @longbaysurfclub
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
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
52d Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 418 4999, tastythai52@gmail.com tastytinythai.co.nz
instagram: tasty_tinythai
Open Mon to Thurs: 12-3pm, 4-9pm Fri and Sat: 12-9:30pm Sun: 12-9pm
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
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
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
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 seven 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
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one stop shop" when you need to send artwork, sculptures, ceramics and antiques – anywhere. No matter how large, awkward, valuable or fragile the item is, you can rely on Pack & Send's experienced operators to package it and get it delivered, safely.
Jane and Jeremy Bain, the local franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna, have a 'No limits' approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems around art and antiques. "Many of the items we have dealt with are valuable," says Jeremy, "not only in the monetary sense but because the pieces may have been handed down through the family for generations. It's irreplaceable on so many levels."
It doesn't matter where it's going – New York, London, Sydney, Queenstown – the same care and attention is given to every consignment.
"We'll collect it, package it, take care of the documentation, track it right through to the destination and get it signed for," says Jane.
As well, Pack & Send customers can use their Freight Plus warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind –something not generally available when freighting artworks.
For those really delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack & Send can use its state of the art 'Foam in Place' packaging system, which forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.
"We also produce custom-made boxes to any size or shape," adds Jeremy. "Because we treat each consignment as unique, designing packaging and the freight solutions to suit, we're finding that more and more people benefit from our services."
Pack & Send provides service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles.
Pack & Send Takapuna is supporting our client NZ Art Promotions at the Art in the Park exhibition again this year from 18-21 September. Held at Eden Park, Art in the Park is a world-class contemporary art show in Auckland's cultural calendar. Over 100 of New Zealand's best artists will exhibit, and 1000 pieces of art will be on display and for sale. At this year's show, go behind the scenes with the artists, hear them talk, watch them create, and be inspired. Tickets start from $19 and can be purchased from artinthepark.co.nz
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.
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
Just over a year ago, a very special space was unveiled at North Shore Hospital’s new Tōtara Haumaru building – the Hospital Healing Garden. Since then, this garden has quietly worked its magic. It has become a sanctuary at the heart of the hospital; a place where patients can pause and breathe, visitors can find comfort, and staff can step away from the demands of their day to restore their energy.
This first anniversary is not only a milestone to celebrate, but also a moment to say thank you. The Healing Garden exists because of the generosity of people in our community and is a gift that continues to nurture the wellbeing of thousands who pass through the hospital each week.
We’d love to hear your story. If the Healing Garden has been part of your hospital stay or visit, please share your experience with us at info@wellfoundation.org.nz
Join us at Gibbs Farm to support your local hospital If you fancy a great outing, please join us for a day at one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, Gibbs Farm, on Friday 26 September in support of your local hospital. There are a limited number of tickets remaining. Scan the QR code and use WF20 for a 20% discount.
Bring the whole family along – it’s the perfect school holiday outing! Tickets are $85 with the promo code applied.
486 3355
Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals 09 447 0138 info@wellfondation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
Football boots, famous faces, and a whole lot of heart will take centre stage in Birkenhead on Sunday, 14 September, as the community gears up for Battle of the Boots, a celebrity football match raising funds and awareness for Multiple Sclerosis Auckland.
Held at Birkenhead United Football Club from 1–5pm, and in conjunction with Harcourts Cooper & Co, the event marks the official launch of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week and promises an afternoon of high-energy entertainment for all ages. With all proceeds going directly to support Aucklanders living with MS, organisers say the event is about more than just football—it's about making a meaningful difference. “This is a game where the scoreline takes a back seat to the cause,” says Nicola Bitossi, general manager of Multiple Sclerosis Auckland. “We’re bringing together well-known faces and everyday heroes to raise awareness and funds for a complex, challenging condition which affects one in 1,000 New Zealanders.”
Beyond the match itself, the day will feature:
• Half-time entertainment for kids
• Live music
Two teams – Team Orange and Team Teal – will face off in a 60-minute match coached by none other than Sir Graham and Lady Raewyn Henry, bringing their legendary leadership to the soccer pitch! MS Auckland Ambassador, funnyman Sam Smith will referee the match and non-stop entertainment. The player roster includes a mix of celebrities, prominent community figures, and sports stars. One
• Tongue-in-cheek prize giving
• Raffles, a live auction, and giveaways
• Food trucks and refreshments.
Organisers expect a strong turnout, with the event designed to appeal to families, football fans, and anyone passionate about supporting a good cause.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition affecting over 1,200 people in Auckland. Often diagnosed when people are in their 30s, MS is known as a “prime of life” disease – striking individuals in the midst of careers, parenting, and personal growth. It remains the leading cause of non-accident disability in young adults.
Funds raised from Battle of the Boots will go directly to Multiple Sclerosis Auckland, helping provide essential services, advocacy, and support for those living with the condition and their whānau.
Takapuna’s approach to wellness is as diverse as its coastline, offering options for active exploration and quiet reflection.
Wellness can be found in the way we move through the world, like cycling scenic routes or taking a few moments to breathe on a busy day. And when it’s time to unwind, the North Shore has havens for relaxation, from cosy cinemas to yoga studios.
Being near the sea is good for us – this could look like a swim, a deep breath of ocean air, a stroll on the sand with coffee in hand. The natural beauty of Takapuna Beach is freely available to all.
Warning: Prolonged exposure to Takapuna’s ocean beach may result in excessive happiness and a general lack of stress.
The way we travel can influence our wellbeing. Give yourself the gift of extra time and take the longer route when you can. While a day off might be dedicated to hiking or cycling, even a work commute can have moments of wellness. How can you carve out a few extra minutes to decompress before arriving at your next destination?
Walking: Recharge your senses with a walk. Your brain (and body) will thank you for exploring on foot. If you have the time, the Takapuna to Milford walk is amazing.
Cycling: Clear your mind by cycling. Try cruising along the Takapuna to Devonport path, it’s 12 km of pure enjoyment and fresh air. If you keep an eye out, you might discover hidden gems along the way.
Driving: Even when time is limited, consider parking a few blocks away and walking to your next destination. Use this time to transition and arrive with presence.
Public transport: Turn your commute into a moment of calm. Use the bus or ferry to read, listen to music or simply observe the scenery.
Wellness takes many forms and Takapuna offers a diverse range of ways to unwind. It could be the solitude of a movie, the community of a group activity or the tranquility of yoga.
Here are some local spots to help you relax:
O Studio: This is your sanctuary for a curated journey to wellbeing. Soak in the sauna and ice bath, find deep relaxation in float therapy and cultivate community with a yoga class.
Spas: You deserve to be pampered. You could indulge in the therapeutic benefits of massage or the skin-enhancing effects of
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
facials. Try a unique enzyme spa experience at Ikoi Day Spa. Or slow down the pace of your day at Slӧwe Studio. We invite you to explore Takapuna’s spa scene and curate your ideal day of rejuvenation. Takapuna Beachside Cinemas: Trade the stress of the day for the comfort of a couch and the convenience of food and drinks served to your seat. Sometimes, watching a movie can create a truly restorative evening.
Check out the What's Hot section on our website for more suggestions on places to enhance your wellness in Takapuna!
Takapuna’s got heaps to offer, especially if you’re looking for healthy food. It doesn’t have to be hard to eat out with friends while you’re eating healthy. You can have food that tastes good, looks good and makes you feel good! Check out these healthy cafés and restaurants to treat your tastebuds. These are the kinds of places that can help you hit your macronutrient targets, and that take care of any special dietary requirements.
Take a walk on the beach with a smoothie in hand. Or nourish your body with a nutrient-dense dish. Street Organics is the perfect place to support your health goals. The team makes food from scratch and specialises in catering to diets and allergies – paleo, vegan, gluten free and low FODMAP foods.
Our recommendation: Green protein smoothie – spinach, kale, banana, vanilla protein powder.
Poké Poké is a choose-your-own adventure-style eatery. You can mix and match any combination you desire. Make it colourful, make it delicious. Maybe you want white and purple rice. Maybe you want salmon, seaweed and beans. Or chicken, salad and avocado with a garnish of edible flowers.
Our recommendation: Kimchi aioli sauce with salmon.
Fatimas makes food with fresh herbs and punchy citrus. We love the pitas, chawarmas (served in a wild wheat bap).
Our particular favourite is the Nu-Shiek Salad with baby spinach, lettuce, red cabbage, green slaw and more. Our recommendation: Add extra falafel to any dish for a tasty plant-based protein boost.
Sam’s Mediterranean is like a mini vacation in Italy, Greece, and Turkey all at once. Think sunshine, good times, juicy grilled meats and homemade salads. These recipes have stood the test of time and bring a taste of the Mediterranean Diet to Takapuna.
Our recommendation: Halloumi salad.
You can have food that tastes good, looks good and makes you feel good! Check out these healthy cafés and restaurants to treat your tastebuds.
Voted Best Cafe and Best Coffee in the last two Taste of Takapuna People’s Choice Awards – you can’t go wrong with stopping for a bite or drink at JAM Organic Cafe. Picture this: summer sips of coffee (why not try one of their alternative latte’s with tumeric or beetroot?), delicious and nutritious, made-from-scratch food, and sun streaming in while enjoy both in the middle of Takapuna with the sound of the ocean in the distance.
Our recommendation: Summer Bircher Bowl with seasonal fruit, honey and yoghurt (dairy-free options available) – or Burrito Bowl for the savoury-fiends.
Check out every single amazing place to eat and drink in Takapuna (because believe it or not, there are plenty more!) in our 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…
Back in 2023, Christine Young wrote a feature for Channel Mag on Takapuna resident Julian Brown’s plans to bring the sport of ‘Padel’ to New Zealand. Two years on, those plans have firmly become a reality with the establishment of four brand new courts at Albany and the news that three courts will also be installed in central Takapuna in the next few months. Channel Mag’s Aidan Bennett went along to Albany during August and reckons he may have caught the ‘Padel bug’.
I have known Julian Brown for quite a few years as an identity on the North Shore. His career has included success in property investment and development, he did a great stint for the community as chair of the Takapuna Beach Business Association a few years ago, and I was aware that his new passion was padel and a related business he had set up with others, Pacific Padel. On the back of the news that they were setting up three courts in my 'hood, central Takapuna, I thought it was time to discover a bit more about the sport of padel, and Julian’s business, Pacific Padel.
The three Takapuna courts will be installed as part of the town square site next to the main Takapuna bus stop area and Cousin Scott’s family restaurant and sports bar.
“These three Takapuna courts will be installed before Christmas. We are aiming to have them in action during November,” says Julian, CEO, Pacific Padel. “They will be great for the community and add to the vibrancy of the area.
“Booking a court and playing will be very easily administered via an easy-to-use global app, called Playtomic, the same way players currently book at our site in Albany will be used for booking throughout New Zealand The Playtomic app will process the payment and also includes the facility for players of all levels to develop a ranking score, so they play against other similarly talented (or not) Padel players. So you will be able to book a court to play with friends or book a court to play with players of a similar level. It’s a very social game.”
On a Saturday afternoon in mid-August, I ventured north to Albany, near the Tennis Northern/Albany Tennis Centre complex and the BMX track on Oteha Valley Road, to
meet with Julian and discover the new Pacific Padel courts. I was impressed! It was a cold winter's day, but the courts were all busy. There are currently four courts at Albany, with plans for up to eight on the site. Pacific Padel has exclusive distribution rights to these Padel Galis courts in New Zealand and the Pacific.
Julian says he first discovered the game of padel in Europe 20 years ago. He explains that Spain is the epicentre of the Padel phenomenon; apparently, it’s now their second biggest participant sport, behind football. He also played when living in London at courts at a local gym there, but reconnected with the game in South Africa after the pandemic.
“I was convinced to bring it to New Zealand after seeing how it was booming when I was visiting friends in South Africa. I got back to New Zealand, and there were no courts here. After about six months of waiting,I thought, ‘Right, I'd better do it myself.’ I had the padel bug!”
Padel was actually first developed in Mexico back in 1969 and is now very popular worldwide. Julian says it has developed
substantially since the early days when he played in Spain on courts with concrete walls and floors, and the bats weren't as good as the solid carbon-fibre ones used now.
Padel is now played on a glass-and-cage enclosed court that’s about one-third the size of a tennis court, but with much the same relative dimensions. The rules are essentially the same as those in tennis, but the game is played with a shortened racket (38mm thick, with a polystyrene inside and coated with carbon-fibre), and a tennis ball that is nine percent softer than a regular ball. Serving is an underhand serve, which, along with the softer ball, slows the game down, resulting in longer rallies than in tennis. An added dimension to the game is that the ball can be played off the end glass walls as well, similar to squash.
I didn’t intend to play while I was there, but Julian introduced me to Jorge Goiko, a young Spanish lad who is one of his Pacific Padel certified coaches (and apparently a gun!), who encouraged me to have a hit with him. I’m glad I did. It’s a lot of fun; it was easy to see why it is becoming the game of choice for players of all ages and abilities. When there are three of these courts in Takapuna, I’m all in!
“It’s faster to pick up than any other racket sport,” explains Julian. “There’s less running, more hitting and longer rallies. The whole game is more suited to general enjoyment than tennis, and is great for racket players who think their playing days are over. That hasn’t stopped the development internationally of a couple of well-financed and highly competitive professional tournament circuits.
“Padel is mostly played as doubles and in New Zealand, through Pacific Padel. We’re setting up the whole environment and ecosystem around it – coaching, tournaments, pro-shop, merchandise and refreshments.”
Julian sees it as a privilege to introduce this totally new game to be enjoyed by a wide cross-section of people. He gets a buzz out of introducing people to padel, because he’s confident they’ll love it
As well as the three new courts in Takapuna, construction is underway on four new courts at Merton Road, Glen Innes, in Auckland, and four are also being built at Wilding Park in Christchurch.
The company aims to operate 50 courts across 12 to 14 clubs, with Julian Brown aiming for 100 courts nationwide eventually. He adds that Pacific Padel's Auckland club
already has 500 members in its WhatsApp group, and people are loving it.
Pacific Padel’s community and club manager, Adam McDonald, has witnessed first-hand the impact that the new sport has made in a very short time.
"Padel is unlike any sport I’ve ever played – how addictive it is and how quickly you get hooked after your first try,” says Adam. “It’s growing fast all over the world for a reason. What I love is how simple it is to pick up. You can be laughing through rallies within minutes of stepping on court. Compared to tennis or other racket sports, it’s much easier to progress to higher levels with just a little practice and coaching.
“For us at Pacific Padel Albany, the best part has been watching a real community take shape. People come down to get active, but they end up making friends too, and you can see the positive impact that has on their wellbeing.
"It's faster to pick up than any other sport," explains Julian. "There's less running, more hitting and longer rallies."
“It’s also been brilliant for corporate groups. Padel is easy for beginners, inclusive and just the right mix of fun and competitive. We’ve had teams turn up not knowing what to expect, and within an hour they’re highfiving each other and already planning their rematch."
After my hit with Jorge in Albany, I’ve well and truly got the ‘padel bug’. And there’s soon to be three courts about 300 metres away from my front gate!
Check it out in Albany (325 Oteha Valley Road), keep an eye out for the courts opening in Takapuna, get the Playtomic app, or visit pacificpadel.co.nz for more information.
Visit: pacificpadel.com
Harbour Hospice volunteer Kelly Townsend is a “passionate planner”. “Set things up properly from the start, and the rest will flow,” she says.
So, naturally, Kelly is all over it when it comes to planning for the end of life. As a funeral celebrant and facilitator for Death Without Debt, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to ensure Kiwis can have an affordable and dignified farewell, Kelly knows what she wants for her send-off, and has written her will.
She wrote her will in 2019, then amended it recently, in both cases taking advantage of opportunities to create a free will using lawyers in partnership with Harbour Hospice. September is Wills Month, and that same opportunity is being offered by lawyers Denham Bramwell Lawyers, Simpson Western North Lawyers and Paxton-Penman et al, who will create or amend a simple will for you, free of charge, when you include a gift in your will to Harbour Hospice.
We will need services like Hospice that provide specialist palliative care…
Kelly says she is very happy to leave a gift in her will to Harbour Hospice because she volunteers for the charity at its gift-wrapping station at Silverdale Mall every Christmas and used to be a volunteer life story writer; she understands the impact it has in its community. She has also had a good friend cared for by Harbour Hospice, “who couldn't speak highly enough about their care”.
She adds, “I’m also aware that over the next 10 years, the number of deaths is estimated to rise significantly. We will need services like Hospice that provide specialist palliative care, and support people to die at home.”
When you leave a gift in your will to Harbour Hospice, you’re ensuring that hospice care can continue for generations to come. A gift in will can be any amount you like; it all makes a difference to hospice patients and their families. To arrange your free will or learn more, contact Harbour Hospice Planned Giving Manager Suzie Smith on 021 226 2741 or suzie.smith@harbourhospice.org. nz or visit harbourhospice.org.nz /gift-in-your-will/
By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
Those words from Malcolm X ring true in every community across New Zealand. Nothing is more important to the future of our country than giving our children the best possible start to life through education.
As a father, I think a lot about the kind of education my son will have when he goes to school. Like every parent, I want him to have the best start in life, with a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy, the right support when he needs it and opportunities to discover his potential.
… we are making the biggest set of changes in decades to uplift education outcomes.
For too long, our education system has not delivered. Too many young Kiwis were leaving school without the basics in literacy and numeracy. That’s why this government has gone back to basics – we are making the biggest set of changes in decades to uplift education outcomes.
This includes:
• structured literacy and structured mathematics;
• banning mobile phones in classrooms;
• banning new open-plan classrooms to ensure focused learning;
• adding new learning support coordinators in every primary and intermediate school;
• overhauling Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) funding to ensure that every student with high and complex needs receives the support they need.
When your child finishes school, we want them to leave with a qualification that means something. That’s why we’re making big changes to NCEA:
• All students will sit foundation tests in Year 11 in reading, writing and maths.
• At Year 12 and Year 13, students will earn new certificates that are easier for parents and employers to understand.
• We’re working with employers and industry to create better vocational pathways, so students leave school with skills that lead to jobs.
• More assessments will be online or submitted directly to NZQA, making the process faster and more straightforward.
These reforms will ensure students leave school not only with a qualification, but with the skills to succeed in whatever path they choose. Even if they want to reach for the stars!
See you out in our community sometime soon!
Dan Bidois – MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz
Phone: 09 481 1089
facebook: @danbidoismp instagram: @danbidoismp
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
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 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 an 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 from 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
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
By Aidan Bennett
The Takapuna Boating Club’s Bayswater building (at 17 Sir Peter Blake Parade) looks set to be restored at long last after local MP Simon Watts has played a significant role in getting a 102 year old law changed through parliament. The boating club owns the land and buildings. The law was a key obstacle in the boating club being able to invest in the restoration. During my short three year stint on the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board this was an issue I was keen to see resolved. Unfortunately the stumbling block was the Auckland Harbour Board and Takapuna Borough Council Empowering Act from 1923. The land upon which the Takapuna Boating Club’s Bayswater clubhouse sits was bought under this act. I talked to Simon Watts and Takapuna Boating Club Commodore Wendy Baker about this during August just after the amendment to the act had passed.
Simon, when did you first discover this problem existed that was preventing progress with this lovely old building?
Simon Watts: It was first brought to my attention in 2020. As a local it was pretty obvious to me that something had to be done to change things. The late Ralph Roberts was very keen to see the building
restored and I worked together with him and others to understand the issue and find the solution. Once we knew the change required we put things in motion to achieve the desired outcome. I’m sure Ralph would have been thrilled with our achievement.
In a nutshell, what has been the issue?
Simon Watts: The land upon which the Takapuna Boating Club’s Bayswater clubhouse sits was bought under an act of Parliament in 1923. As a condition of the purchase, the land could only be used for community purposes, such as boating, swimming and socialising, rules which were encapsulated in old act.
The act also stated the property could only be leased for nominal rent to clubs and societies not operating for commercial gain.
The uses permitted by the act have over time become largely redundant with the swimming baths ceasing operation in the 1950s and the club moving to new premises in the 1960s. The stipulation that any use of the building may not be for private gain means the club is unable to enter into complying commercial leases with tenants who could provide the club with the income necessary to upgrade and maintain the building. Without any income, the Takapuna Boating Club couldn’t afford to maintain
the building, and it fell out of use and is in a dilapidated state.
What had to be done to correct things?
Simon Watts: The amendment marks a major milestone for the Takapuna Boating Club and the wider Bayswater community. This long-awaited legislation will now enable the restoration and revitalisation of the historic clubhouse, ensuring it remains a valuable space for both community and commercial purposes. This lifts outdated restrictions from the 1923 act, allowing the club to generate commercial revenue to fund much-needed repairs and ongoing maintenance for the nearly 150-year-old building. Previously, financial constraints limited restoration efforts, leaving the building vulnerable to deterioration.
This will allow the club to make more than nominal rent – perhaps from a café –to reinvest into the building’s upkeep. The club would be a great spot to take the family on an afternoon for an ice-cream or maybe a coffee.
The intent here is to enable, not to restrict further. The original 1923 legislation had good intentions, but without change, the clubhouse would remain underused and unmaintained. What happens next for the Bayswater clubhouse
will be up to the boating club and our community. The possibilities are now, for the first time in many years, truly open.
Wendy, what does this mean for your club?
Wendy Baker: This is a defining moment for our club and the Bayswater community. The Bayswater clubhouse has long been a cornerstone of local history, and with this legislative change, we can bring it back to life while continuing to serve our community.
Takapuna Boating Club, established in 1920, has a rich legacy of fostering sailing, paddling, and ocean sports, hosting worldclass regattas, and providing a home for local clubs and athletes. The amendment will allow the club to lease part of the
building for commercial purposes, ensuring the financial sustainability necessary to maintain its historic structure.
What are the next steps for the club in relation to the building?
Wendy Baker: We will be stablishing a Bayswater Restoration committee to oversee the restoration project. We intend to engage with local stakeholders and the community for input and will also be seeking funding opportunities and potential commercial tenants.
After so long this must be wonderful news for the club?
Wendy Baker: Yes, we are incredibly grateful to Simon Watts MP, his assistant in
parliament Jack Bolter, Auckland Council and Devonport Takapuna Local Board (who supported the act amendment), and all our supporters who championed this bill and ensured its passage. Our past commodores James Jordan and Andrew Snell also worked tirelessly to see this happen. Their dedication has helped secure the future of this historic clubhouse.
With the bill now passed, Takapuna Boating Club looks forward to revitalising the Bayswater clubhouse, creating a space that will continue to support sailing, community engagement, and social activities for years to come.
Well done to all involved in achieving this great outcome for the community.
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The appearance of relaxed, washed stripes offers a classic coastal feel in every season. Riverton bed linen is crafted from a linen/cotton blend for a beautifully soft look and feel. 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
Ruby Red Shoes is a very aware hare who enjoys an adventure. She particularly loves exploring Devonport – a favourite place to picnic is North Head, looking out to sea to the magnificent Rangitoto Island. If you would like your own Ruby to explore with, or one of the Ruby Red Shoes books, come and visit us at Cosi Fan Tutte in Devonport. 73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
From bold sauces to gourmet salt grinders, we've got the flavor magic your kitchen's been craving. Spice up your meals, one twist at a time! Shop Hunt & Gather at Cravehome. 30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
Spring is in the air and we certainly have a spring in our step. Check out our socials for more spring flowers. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
New Zealand-made – perfect for gifts and souvenirs! 34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679
thesheepskinfactory.co.nz 9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
Our Maker of the Month is painter Colin McKay, whose inspiration comes from closely observing the natural world and translating what he sees into intricate, expressive watercolours. 3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz depot.org.nz, 10am-4pm, Tues-Sun
$21.99 EACH $100 FOR A CASE
Barossa Black Shiraz and Cabernet - $21.99 each, or $100 for a case of 6 (saving $32). A full-bodied shiraz showcasing rich dark fruit flavours, hints of chocolate, and a peppery finish. A fine example of Barossa Valley winemaking. A robust cabernet sauvignon with flavours of blackcurrant, cassis, and a touch of mint, supported by firm tannins and a lengthy finish. 182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770 takapuna@liquorland.co.nz liquorland.co.nz
Tan Pop Up Wallet by Moana Rd. Sleek, smart, and practical – this wallet features an automatic pop-up card holder and comes beautifully boxed. The perfect Father’s Day gift. Find it at Elements, Glenfield Mall. 09 442 1117
Zaket & Plover's 'My Happy Jumper' $209.95. My Happy Jumper will brighten up your day. Featuring contrasting sleeves, one with flowers and a heart and the other with stripes. Just what we need for the nippy weather! Available now at yarntons.co.nz.
18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011 69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 facebook instagram @yarntons, yarntons.co.nz
Dreamed up and distilled right here on the North Shore, this beautiful range of gins is crafted with care and character. Daydream Gin - Botanic is a perfect balance of botanicals including rosemary, thyme, sage and lavender, lifted with hints of citrus and spice. Bright, refreshing, and just perfect for a spring gin and tonic! Visit thenzrumco.nz
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
North Shore locals Juergen and Kerry Rosenitsch are passionate about electric biking and are keen to get more people in the region discovering e-bikes. As the local MeloYelo agents for the North Shore area, Juergen and Kerry love getting out on their MeloYelo e-bikes and meeting others keen to do the same.
Juergen says, “What we like about being part of the MeloYelo team is that we believe in the bikes that we sell. They are well priced in the market, have good componentry, and being an agent, we can spend time with our customers to help work out the right bike for them.”
Being a qualified electrician and life-long bike fan, Juergen is also well-placed to provide the bike maintenance and servicing needed to get the most out of your bike for years to come. This includes the first free service check that comes standard with any MeloYelo bike purchased – just one of many differences that set the MeloYelo brand apart.
If you’re keen to take a test ride, come and see Juergen and Kerry at their upcoming demo day at Bike Hub Forrest Hill on Sunday 14 September, between 10am and 2pm. There, you’ll be able to check out the MeloYelo range, take a safe test ride on any or all bikes that you’re interested in, and benefit from Juergen and Kerry’s friendly advice.
As an added incentive, everyone who buys a new MeloYelo e-bike by the end of September will receive e-bike accessories worth a massive $750, including a suspension seat post, bike tracker, car charger, trunk bag, wide saddle, folding lock and more. With this nationwide promotion finishing this month, heading along to meet Juergen and Kerry at Bike Hub Forrest Hill could be time well spent.
MeloYelo E-Bikes 021 250 4093 northshore@meloyelo.nz meloyelo.nz/dealers/north-shore/
Our round-up of posts from local Milford spots on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Todd Treadwell from @wellhungbutcher1
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you?
Todd Treadwell is the owner of Well Hung Butchery in Milford. He’s been a butcher for 32 years and has owned Well Hung for about a year, continuing the great work of the previous owners. Todd says he’s worked mostly in retail but with wholesale and home kill as well. Butchering is the only job he’s ever had, so he knows a thing or two about the craft. Well Hung is well known in the community and for good reason. He talks about his favourite cut of meat and running the business.
Channel Mag: Tell us a little bit about Well Hung Butchery…
Todd Treadwell: Well Hung was set up as a gluten-free shop that specialises in dry aged meats. We have over the years started making easy preparation products that you can just bake in the oven for around 30 minutes to keep things easy and simple for our customers. We like lots of flavour and easy to cook meats.
I do follow a few Australian Instagram accounts. I really like exploring new tips and finding ideas to try something new. I follow Thompson Butcher in Tauranga, as Kurt was my apprentice previously. We swap ideas at times so that’s great.
Favourite cut of meat and way to cook it?
My favourite cut of meat is a 30-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye. You sear on each side for about three minutes then put in the oven on 200 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes depending on the size. One of these serves two people and I season it with flaky sea salt. Delicious!
210 Kitchener Road, Milford wellhung.nz @wellhungbutcher1
We love a trip to Milford Motel, fantastic food and kids play area too. Something for everyone big and small! @milfordmotel
Long time fans of Dear Friend over here and this strawberry matcha slice is on our list to try next! @dearfriendmilford
Looking for a beautiful setting to get your lashes and brows done? Look no further than Nude & Co in Milford. @nudeand.co
There’s nothing quite like escaping the winter chill with a sunny getaway – and treating yourself to new swimwear makes it all the more special.
At Rich Lingerie, we’ve been stocking swimwear year-round for many years. But thanks to growing demand, we’ve recently expanded our range to offer even more styles, sizes, and options to suit every body.
We stock swimwear from trusted brands like Elomi Swim, Fantasie Swim, and Freya Swim, many of which also create swimwear to complement their lingerie collections.
“You’d be surprised how many people realise – often at the last minute – that they need new togs! Having a wide selection of styles and sizes on hand has been a lifesaver for many of our customers.”
As with lingerie, well-fitting swimwear can make a world of difference. Whether you’re lounging poolside or hitting the beach, the right fit helps you feel confident, comfortable, and fabulous.
We understand that fittings – whether for lingie or swimwear –can feel a bit daunting. That’s why we aim to make every visit to Rich
Lingerie a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Our expert team offers the same personalised fitting service for swimwear as we do for lingerie. Most of our swimwear is underwired, comes in cup sizes, and – unless it’s a one-piece – you can mix and match tops and bottoms.
We stock swimwear from trusted brands like Elomi Swim, Fantasie Swim, and Freya Swim, many of which also create swimwear to complement their lingerie collections. This means we can offer a wide size range – from cup sizes C to K and back sizes 6 to 24.
Fantasie Swim is a customer favourite, especially its elegant swimsuits, which are regularly released in fresh new colours. Many styles also come with matching kaftans or sarongs.
Freya Swim is our go-to for stylish bikinis.
Elomi Swim offers a full range of swimsuits, tankinis, and bikinis –perfect for fuller figures.
To keep things fresh, we also bring in styles from the Northern Hemisphere, so you’ll often find new arrivals even outside the New Zealand swimwear season.
And it’s not just swimwear that’s new in-store. Since our last update, we’ve welcomed two stunning new bras from Elomi – the fashion-forward Reja, with its sparkly detailing, and the ever-popular Smooth t-shirt bra, now available in a rich emerald green.
More new arrivals are on the way from Goddess, Freya, and Fantasie – so whether you’re after new togs or beautiful lingerie, it’s worth popping in or browsing online. Our stock is always changing, and we’d love to help you find your perfect fit.
Change is inescapable, says architect, academic, urbanist and activist Julie Stout. She believes it is important to consider how change might happen, and to engage communities in talking about a positive vision for the future. Christine Young talked to her about her recent initiative in exhibiting a concept plan for the future of Devonport, the all-important conversations that generated and that she hopes will continue to take place as Auckland adjusts to changing realties.
By Christine Young
Julie was always interested in architecture, and a degree in architecture at the University of Auckland was an inevitable step. Having gained her degree, she took a job in an architecture practice where she met David Mitchell. She and David set up their own practice, Mitchell & Stout, and became life partners, but not before Julie had spent some time working in Fiji on a women’s community centre, and in Hong Kong.
During the course of her career, Julie has amassed an impressive array of awards,
has a number of notable public and private architecture projects to her credit, and has driven initiatives that aim to ensure good design is embedded in planning as the city develops. Together, she and David garnered many of New Zealand’s major architectural awards, including, in 2001, the New Zealand Institute of Architects’ highest honour, for Auckland’s New Gallery. However, she demurs when asked to name any specific buildings she is proud of, saying that whatever the project, “the reward is in seeing people enjoying the environment” she has created as an architect, and knowing that “the solution fits the problem”.
Among other awards, Julie was made a Distinguished Fellow of Te Kāhui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects in 2017, and in 2021 was the first woman honoured with that institution’s Gold Medal, acknowledging the rich contribution she has made not only in the buildings she has designed, but also in her role as a mentor and architectural ambassador, and her impact on the shape of Auckland itself.
The aim, she says, is to make Devonport more sustainable, and to attract people to live, work and visit.
From her undergraduate days, Julie’s architecture practice has encompassed not just the buildings, but their impact on and relationship to the environment in which they are situated. And despite accusations she may face from stalwart heritage advocates as she promotes development as part of the future of Devonport, she has also fought to retain much of what is good. Early in her career, for example, she became involved in the fight to save Auckland’s heritage Courtville apartments in the central city, and more recently was the public face of the fight against the incursion of Ports of Auckland wharves into the Waitematā Harbour. As chair of NZIA Auckland Urban Issues Group
from 2002-2004, she was involved in lobbying Auckland Council to promote and plan a better built environment for Auckland City, and in 2005 she was appointed to Auckland mayor Dick Hubbard’s Mayoral Task Force on Urban Design.
Julie was an adjunct professor at Unitec Institute of Technology, and is now a professional teaching fellow in the masters programme in the School of Architecture and Planning at Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland. In both these roles, she has relished mentoring students in both architecture and urbanism. “Teaching is great,” she enthuses, “because with the students, you get to deal with ideas.”
“It’s increasingly critical,” she adds, “ that students have an awareness of the urban environment, and how it has the be designed; the integration of disciplines…” Architects, with their training to solve problems with design, are well-placed to build bridges between communities, the environment, planners and engineers, she says.
Which is where the Devonport project comes in. For several years now, she has assigned students the task of envisioning what a more intensely developed Devonport might look like. This year, working with fellow Devonport award-winning architect and academic Ken Davis, she took the assignment a step further, and created an exhibition of the students’ work, complete with concept drawings as large posters, and a scale model incorporating each student’s plans for a specific site. They also initiated conversations with Peninsula Capital, a private equity firm that first purchased the old Devonport Borough Council building, and followed that up in 2023 with the purchase of another 15 properties on Devonport’s main street and the surrounding block.
It was time to have a “really good look” at the future shape of Devonport, she says. She knew Peninsula Capital wanted to work within a wider vision, and with their encouragement, involved her students and the wider community in conversations around “what’s needed, [and] what’s possible”. A series of “community conversations” took place in July and August, looking at “what people valued, what was not working, what they wanted to see changed, and how they would like to see Devonport in the future”.
Julie believes that without change, Devonport, where she has lived for the past two decades, is dying. Fewer than 100 people live in the central business area, and the population is ageing. Shops and businesses need more people, and more younger people, living and working locally if they are to thrive.
Eighteen students were each assigned a site in the central Devonport precinct, and the resulting scale model demonstrates, says
Julie, some of the development concepts and ideas. These include a revamped supermarket, with carparking underneath and apartments or business space above, as well as an extended covered carpark that allows for public space above and an adjacent market space. Also incorporated were better use of existing laneways; apartment buildings; revamped retail buildings with apartments above; a high-end hotel on the waterfront; and backpacker accommodation to cater to the Te Araroa walkers who pass through the suburb rather than staying. Oh, and buildings with recording studios, a performance theatre, a public art gallery, two levels of tertiary education facilities, and a kohanga reo.
Modelling from the work undertaken shows the suburb could accommodate 650 more people living in apartments into central Devonport. The aim, she says, is to make Devonport more sustainable, and to attract people to live, work and visit. Their vision doesn’t stop with the buildings. It’s important, she says, to develop the stories of Devonport; to create awareness of the geology, and a history that includes Māori, settlers, and the maritime industries, for example. And, of course the changing environment: “So much is about how to work with the environment and climate change,” she notes.
Undertaking the exhibition was a huge extra workload for Julie, Ken and the students, for whom the exhibition was not part of their assignment. But, she says, people started to understand that heritage buildings would be retained. And, importantly, with proposed buildings going to four or five stories, “the idea was to test how much area you get for that and the impact on the overall form of Devonport”, including views
For several years now, she has assigned students the task of envisioning what a more intensely developed Devonport might look like.
of Takarunga (Mount Victoria) and issues of accessibility for supermarket deliveries and general traffic flow
Julie says the exercise was like doing strategic plan for Devonport. Of course, the model is just that. It’s not a design blueprint, nor is it fixed in any way. But, she emphasises, Devonport is going to change. “Change should happen within agreed community values and understanding,” she says, “so there is mutual surety. Devonport of the future could be an exemplar of a sustainable and innovative urban village.”
She hopes that the work to date could become the start of a “citizen’s initiative for a precinct plan” that could also expand to encompass consideration of and ideas for facilities and development on the wider Hauraki-Devonport peninsula. “I believe with the power of people and people’s love of the place that we’re just starting the conversation and giving them something to think about….”
“Cities are organic,” she says, so whatever you say is not hard and fast. But the important thing is setting down shared values, for the built and cultural heritage to come through, and for a diversity of ages, backgrounds and perspectives to be involved. To date, she admits, it’s a local community discussion. But she’s ever the optimist. “If we could become the repository of an initiative…” she dreams. She’d like to create something that can continue conversations with all parts of the community, and continue beyond election cycles.
Whether it’s Devonport, elsewhere on the Shore, or in greater Auckland, “We all know a place we love being. We have to plan and manage so we don’t lose the special charms we’ve got.”
Many local businesses have faced tough challenges recently, so it's a joy to celebrate a North Shore success story – Devonport Car Company has proudly served the community for 30 years! Channel Mag’s Liz Cannon caught up with owner/operator Lewis Rowe to reflect on the journey.
It began back in April 1995, when the business was known as 'Point Cars'. Derek Rountree purchased the yard, rebranded, and spent 20 years building a trusted local dealership for the Takapuna–Devonport peninsula. Fast forward to 2007, and a fresh-faced 15-year-old, recently arrived from the UK, started washing the cars after school and on weekends while attending Takapuna Grammar School. That teen was Lewis Rowe. On 1 January 2016, at just 24 years old, Lewis bought the business and set out to re-ignite its proud legacy.
Lewis is, in a word, lovely. Full of energy, quick to laugh, and always up for a chat, he makes you feel like you’ve known him for years. But behind the banter is a deep passion for people and community, alongside his love of all things cars.
“Derek was all about local connections and supporting the North Shore,” Lewis says. “That’s what I learned from him, and it’s the foundation I’ve built everything on. Community spirit is key.”
Let’s be frank – words like honest, trustworthy and genuine aren’t always associated with used car dealers. But Lewis breaks that stereotype with ease. His passion, integrity and infectious enthusiasm have earned him recognition with clients and within the industry; he was awarded the prestigious BuyerScore’s 2024 'Top 3 Regional Dealership' and 2025 'Top 5 Regional Salesperson' (Auckland region). Based on real customer reviews, the accolades prove that Lewis’s positive approach is the driving force behind his success. Around 60% of sales stay local – who doesn't love the iconic 'Sales Sold To Date' sign on Lake Road, with kids and adults alike keeping tally as they drive past: “3,514 cars sold to locals now!” The remaining 40% of sales are from happy customers across Auckland and New Zealand.
Business success aside, what makes Lewis most proud? “Being locally focused and community-based,” he says without hesitation. A familiar face at local events, Lewis is a generous supporter of Bayswater Primary School’s Matariki Festival, and actively gets
involved with community, school, sport club fundraisers and charity events, like the Devonport Santa Parade. “The community has supported this business for 30 years. I’ve been lucky to be in the driver’s seat for the last 10. Giving back is my way of saying thank you.” What’s next for this local legend? Just in case you haven't seen Lewis's face pop up on all the billboards... "I'm sure locals will be seeing quite a lot of me in the coming months!" he grins. And from a business perspective, “More of the same. I’d love to secure the local location on a long-term basis. Rising lease costs are a real challenge for small businesses.
Owning the land would give me the stability to keep serving the community for decades to come.” And for some R&R, when things settle back down, he’s planning some well-earned adventures. “I love a good Kiwi roadie – it combines my two biggest loves: cars and travel!"
Lewis is proud to carry on the three-decade legacy and keep Devonport Car Company at the heart of the community. He's always up for a chat, so whether you’re considering buying a car or just passing by, you’ll always be greeted with a warm and genuine smile and a few laughs, too.
Happy 30th birthday, Devonport Car Company! We’re lucky to have you local, here on the Shore.
Devonport is known for its seaside charm, heritage architecture and vibrant village life. Now, one of the village’s most central sites has been given a new lease of life.
The building at 30 Victoria Road has been refreshed by Dreven Investments to support local business and bring new energy into the heart of the village. The upgrade respects the building’s character while creating a modern base for a mix of tenants, bringing fresh energy through premium accommodation, retail, art and design, adding new services and creativity to the village.
Together they reflect both continuity and change: established names alongside newcomers choosing Devonport as the place to grow, live, create and belong. It is this mix that gives 30 Vic its renewed sense of purpose. From accommodation to professional services, from art and fashion to cultural connection, the building tells a bigger story about Devonport itself – a village that continues to evolve while staying true to its character.
30 Vic is also home to Stay Devonport Auckland, a luxury executive apartment that sets a high standard for short-stay accommodation in the village.
The apartment accommodates up to six guests across three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with a generous 300sqm balcony providing space to relax, entertain or take in the village atmosphere. Elegantly designed and fully equipped, it is an ideal option for families, groups of friends or business travellers looking for quality accommodation in a central location.
With its location just a few minutes’ walk from the Devonport ferry terminal, guests are only a scenic 10-minute ride from downtown Auckland while enjoying the peace of the seaside village. On the doorstep are boutique shops, cafés, beaches and cultural landmarks, making the property a perfect base for both leisure and work.
For locals, Stay Devonport also fills an important gap, providing high-quality accommodation to recommend for visiting friends and family. Stylish, spacious and convenient, it reflects the growing appeal of Devonport as both a destination and a place to stay, and adds a new dimension to 30 Vic. staydevonport.com
In 2022, what began as a small, heartfelt experiment has grown into something far deeper: a living story of heritage, human connection, and the enduring beauty of craft. It all started in a quiet village in India, where artisans still work the way their ancestors did: with patience, devotion, and a reverence for detail that is rare in today’s world. Watching them at work was transformative. The rhythm of their hands, the intimate knowledge of materials, the pride in every finished piece – it was artistry in its purest form. This became the foundation of a brand that refuses to compromise on authenticity.
Each creation is unique, not because it strives to be, but because no two hands, no two moments, are ever the same. Whether it’s a handwoven textile or a delicately embroidered accessory, each piece is crafted in limited numbers using techniques so rare they risk being lost to time. There are no factories, no mass production. Instead, each piece is named, given a story, and made slowly, as if time itself is stitched into the fabric. The result is more than a product; it’s a keepsake. Something to be worn, cherished, and perhaps even passed on.
Each creation is unique, not because it strives to be, but because no two hands, no two moments, are ever the same.
For those who crave more than trends, for those who seek meaning in what they wear, this is fashion reimagined: soulful, timeless, and profoundly personal. Because true beauty isn’t made by machines. It’s made by hands, hearts, and histories.
And now in September 2025, Art in My Wardrobe is proud to be launching its first store at 30 Victoria Road, Devonport. artinmywardrobe.co.nz
Rounding out the tenants is Time Capsule Gallery, a space that transports visitors back in time.
The gallery is built around a collection of 19th-century European paintings, with works spanning floral still-lifes, sweeping landscapes and portraits of women that carry stories from another era. Pieces come from France, England, Scotland, Italy, Germany and the former AustroHungarian empire, each offering a glimpse into the past.
The gallery is built around a collection of 19th-century European paintings…
Beyond the paintings, the gallery hosts twice-weekly lectures (Tuesdays and Thursdays) exploring rarely discussed corners of art history. It is part gallery, part classroom and all heart.
Time Capsule adds cultural richness to 30 Vic, reinforcing Devonport’s reputation as a village where art and history live side by side. timecapsulegallery.net
Thank you everyone for shopping with us in July and giving us the second highest sales increase for the month in Auckland. As I write this there is another busy month happening during August. It is wonderful that our community values our local businesses and appears to be shopping local like never before. This is great for everyone!
But our work is never done. There is lots happening over coming months that will increase foot-traffic with visitors from near and far. Milford is also a destination. As we feature in this issue, we have a world class yachting event happening here in October and November (details on these pages), and Milford is now the home of Yachting NZ, as it has moved into the building by the roundabout leading to the marina –at 11 Omana Road.
Milford winners! Congratulations to our prize winners. Simon O’Connor won the Mercedes-Benz North Shore Track Day competition and ohmyfoodiegoodie won the $200 voucher for Foodies Month.
New shops in the mall. Three new stores have opened in the new wing of the mall. These are Blak; Bed Bath and Table; and Stella & Gemma. I understand there are more in the pipeline so the refurbishment of the mall is proving extremely inviting to new tenants.
New associate member business. Holmes Plumbing and Gas has signed up as a new ‘Tradie’ associate member. Robert, the owner, lives locally, has years of experience and will provide excellent service. Look him up on our MilfordShops website.
Milford Emergency Response Management Group initiative. Milford was one of the few areas in Auckland that had not created such a group. So the business association offered to facilitate a meeting to create a group to respond to any emergency situation that occurs in our area. This meeting was held in late August and details will be sent via newsletters to residents from us (sign up on the home page of our MilfordShops website), Milford Cruising Club and Milford Residents Association. Between our three organisations we have a combined database of over 10,000 people. If you are not on any of them, please ensure that you join, so that you are area able to be contacted with what to do in the next emergency situation.
World A-Class Catamaran Championship
Get ready for this international event coming to Milford. Activity will start in late October when the boats and the sailors begin assembling and getting practice sessions in on our world-class sailing waters. Many of the sailors and their families/supporters will be staying locally in Milford.
This is an event where we will be able to showcase the Milford community spirit and interact with the sailors and their supporters while seeing world class athletes sailing off our local beach.
About the event: The A-Class Catamaran Championship is a prestigious sailing event that showcases the world’s most advanced single-handed multihulls. It attracts sailors both locally and from around the globe, combining high-speed racing with cutting-edge technology.
The A-Class event is being organised by the Milford Cruising Club in conjunction with the New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club, renowned for delivering world-class sailing events, including the prestigious PIC Coastal Classic.
The event is on from Milford Cruising Club over nine days, including a twoday pre-Worlds event and opening and closing ceremonies.
Key event dates:
• Saturday 8 November – pre-Worlds regatta
• Sunday 9 November – pre-Worlds regatta and prizegiving
• Tuesday 11 November – opening ceremony
• Tuesday 11 to Sunday 16 November – A-Class Catamaran Championship
• Sunday 16 November – prizegiving and closing ceremony
Have a great September.
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
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Our small group travelled through some of the most picturesque corners of southern Italy – places you may not find in the guidebooks. Highlights included a hands-on cooking class at a buffalo mozzarella farm and a dreamy dinner in the countryside at a local agriturismo. These kinds of authentic encounters would have been nearly impossible to arrange independently, and they made the trip truly special.
Accommodation throughout was of a consistent 3–4 star standard, offering comfort without compromising on charm. I was pleasantly surprised by the makeup of our group, which skewed younger than expected – mostly in their late 50s to late 60s—and many were on extended European adventures, linking several Backroads tours together. It’s a style of travel that really suits active explorers, with plenty of walking, exploring, and connecting with local life.
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By Paula Arblaster
“I enjoy what I do, and there’s no way I’m giving it up yet!”
Meet Margaret Richardson, possibly the only 90-year-old full-time retail store owner and manager on the North Shore. Margaret is a stunning example to us all that entering your twilight years doesn’t necessarily mean giving up on your business dreams. Margaret is a knitting legend and a successful craft retailer, winning a Business North Harbour Award in 2023. She single-handedly manages her bricks-and-mortar store, as well as its social media presence. Her determination to continue as an entrepreneur into her nineties is driven not just by tenacity, but also by the joy she takes in creativity, her curiosity, and her desire to keep trying new things.
As a small girl in South Africa, she was taught to knit on a pair of six-inch nails, as knitting needles were scarce during World War 2. Then, as an adult, alongside helping with the family farm, she ran a basketweaving business, supplying her son’s craft shop. She developed her craft knowledge from a hobby into expertise and was taught to dye wool by a master dyer.
In 2004, Margaret migrated to New Zealand, originally living in Canterbury, where she began importing the best quality
kid mohair from her contacts in South Africa. Kid mohair is a fine, almost silky fibre created from the wool of Angora goats. In the case of Margaret’s kid mohair, it is then mixed with mulberry silk. The resulting mohair is known for its exceptional softness on the skin, as well as warmth, and is ideal for delicate garments. It can be mixed with other fine fibres, such as merino, to get the best of both elements. Margaret originally sold her mohair items through specialty stores in the South Island, but many of them struggled and closed after the 2008 recession. After moving to Auckland, Margaret – now 86! – decided she should open her own store.
In February 2021, Margaret opened Amy Maria Kid Mohair, a specialist mohair and merino knitting store located behind the Ramada Hotel on Kaiapoi Lane in Albany, selling Margaret’s hand-dyed kid mohair skeins as well as hand-knitted clothing and woollen items. The store feels like an extension of her home, filled with oak furniture, mirrors, and rugs, as well as the kaleidoscope of colours made from the mohair skeins lining the walls and the racks of beautifully knitted clothes.
Margaret enjoys the creativity and
challenge of making a range of knitwear tailored to a specific person in both colour and style, so the store originally focused on knitting clothing items to order. However, she soon recognised there was an opportunity to increase her offering – customers were beginning to ask her to create specific colours of mohair skeins for their own knitting. Back at home, Margaret set up a dyeing factory in her garage. She repurposed a big stainless-steel vat from its farming life, where it once held artificial semen (!), to become the big mixing pot. Here, Margaret continues to hand-dye skeins of mohair into a range of extraordinary and bespoke colours. Margaret has a handwritten “recipe-book” for her many colours and experiments, and this is a great treasure trove of knowledge at the heart of her craft business. The beauty of a handmade product is that the result always varies, each colour batch is unique even though the recipes remain the same – this lends excitement to the process, much like a vintner producing a wine!
So many years have been devoted to honing her talent and creating beautiful work, as well as running a successful business. Margaret is an inspiration to all of us.
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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.
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
By Paula Arblaster
Shaun Quincey, a man who’s fond of a challenge, talks to us about his achievements, why mentors matter, and his latest involvement on the board of Big Buddy.
Ask someone on the Shore whether they know Shaun Quincey, and you’re quite likely to hear “Yeah”. They’ll tell you he coaches their kid at rugby, or they’ve done surf lifesaving alongside him, or they see him every month at the Mairangi
Bay Fishing Club he founded. Maybe it’s through business; they’ll tell you about the retail finance company he started and sold, or Simfuni, the company he’s built that provides back-end software to the insurance industry. Or perhaps they’ll hark back to the most famous of his exploits: “Isn’t that the guy who built a boat and rowed the Tasman?”
But if you’re one of the folk who don’t know Shaun Quincey, now is a good opportunity for us to introduce him to you. Big Buddy Mentoring Trust recently announced Shaun’s appointment as the new chair of the board of trustees. We spoke to Shaun about his achievements and what motivated him to work with Big Buddy.
First of all, what do people usually remember about you?
“The most memorable event has got to be crossing the Tasman back in 2010.”
Shaun was inspired to become the second person to row across the Tasman by his father, Colin, the first person to achieve that feat back in 1977. Colin left from Opononi, and it took him 63 days using just a sextant for coordinates to
reach Marcus Beach in Queensland. Being pre-mobile communications, the people of Marcus Beach didn’t know Colin was coming. He had to convince them he had just rowed across the Tasman and wasn’t the local thief the police were looking for!
Things were a bit different 33 years later when Shaun made the crossing. The technology had improved, but it was still an extraordinary challenge for a young man to take on. Shaun was 22, straight out of university, and had yet to decide on a career. Nearly broke at the time, he lived in his brother’s garage so that every cent he made could go towards building his boat – Tasman Trespasser II – named after his father’s boat Tasman Trespasser. He also needed to raise all the rest of the funds for the journey, seeking corporate sponsors and becoming a persuasive salesman in the process!
On 20 January 2010, he left from New South Wales and rowed to Ninety Mile Beach. It was a 2,200km journey, although Shaun reckons he probably rowed 4,000km, as winds and storms took him away from the planned route. It took 54 days; he capsized twice, was hit by three cyclones, his water-making machine broke, and he even rowed into the side of a whale! At one point, he considered giving up. The boat had capsized, battering him about in the tiny sleeping cabin in the process, and it didn’t
right itself for 20 minutes. Twenty minutes must seem like forever when you’re stuck underwater!
If you don’t know this incredible story, you should look in the library for Shaun’s book Tasman Trespasser II (you can also read his father’s book, Tasman Trespasser by Colin Quincey) or listen to Shaun being interviewed recently on the Between Two Beers podcast.
Big Buddy is about helping young boys in sometimes difficult situations. What kind of childhood did you have?
“I was a Navy kid. We moved house a lot, and then my parents divorced when I was six years old.”
Shaun doesn’t see this part of his story as negative; he got used to a lot of change from the many moves, and he always knew he was loved.
“The whole time I had wonderful stepparents, coaches, and teachers. Then, as I hit my teenage years and perhaps got a little bit lost, surf lifesaving became like a second family and gave me a lot of stability. They wouldn’t have realised they were having such an impact, because on the outside I looked like I was succeeding, but they really made a huge difference to me.”
Having good people around you obviously made a difference. Would you consider them as mentors?
“Where I am today is because of all the input people had into my life. People gave me a lot of their time, and their knowledge and experience. I think at the most basic level, having a mentor is just knowing there is someone who gives a damn about you. Someone who knows you and wants the best for you. Particularly when things get tough. At those times, so many of us are privileged in that we can turn to someone, somewhere and say “What the **** do I do now? But not everybody has that supporter or that mentor in their life.”
Is that what motivated you to work with Big Buddy?
“I could see that one of the problems we have in this country is that if you’re a kid who doesn’t have any structure or stability, if you don’t have a good role model or somebody to learn from, then you don’t have a solid foundation for becoming the person you want to be. A lot of kids have very little in the way of social capital – no networks to ask, no one with a different idea that might change things. If those of us who have received a lot from good role models, mentors and supporters can now turn around and put some time aside to give back to others, that input can build better, more confident people.”
That positive impact will help more than just one person; it will continue to build and help others. Big Buddy wants to target young men to become better dads, sons, uncles, husbands, and partners; to become people who impact their families and communities positively, too. There are currently 490 Little Buddies (U18) and Big Buddies actively supported across New Zealand, and a waiting list of 130 boys who really want their own Big Buddy. All prospective Big Buddies are thoroughly screened to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the match.
What makes a good Big Buddy?
“It’s not about having all the answers or trying to solve every problem. Showing up for the kids is what it’s all about. Knowing someone is going to turn up to watch that special game, be there when they need to ask a question. A Big Buddy gives a little of themselves – your unique experience and wisdom – it might be some ideas about confidence, about talking to people, maybe some ideas about being smart with money.”
“The average length of a Big Buddy relationship is 3.2 years. It’s not a step-in and step-out transaction. It’s a consistent, stable influence over a reasonable period, demonstrating there are good people who’ll hang in there with you. Big Buddies often say they get more out of it than the Little Buddy. They say it helps them to become better parents themselves, and they get a new perspective from listening to their Little Buddy.”
What do you want to achieve for Big Buddy?
“That waiting list of kids needs Big Buddies, so we need to attract a bunch of suitable men to put their hands up and enter the selection process. We have a strategic framework we’re working hard to implement, too, to turn Big Buddy into a scalable resource to extend its reach, and that will continue developing from the good work of Travis Field, the previous director.”
You’ve also taken on some challenging business projects. Working with start-ups is another one?
“I’m on the board of Icehouse Ventures, where we aim to invest in brave Kiwi founders building global companies. I have some common ground there. I left the corporate world to start my own business, Genoapay, when I realised I needed to drive my own outcomes, and I didn’t have the patience to wait. Building a business was the way to do that.
“I had learnt from organising and funding the Tasman Challenge that so much is achievable if you want it hard enough and are willing to work hard and persevere long enough to achieve it. At the same time, my experience in financial services taught me that you need to understand your risks, you need to have a plan that addresses those risks, understanding what you can manage and what you can’t, and you need to have controls measuring those things. We want to see more Kiwi business founders get successfully through those hurdles and achieve global success.”
There’s a lot on your plate. What keeps you motivated and up for a challenge?
“There’s always a new challenge because sometimes the biggest risk in life is not taking any risks at all! When I was young, long before the Tasman Challenge, one of my mentors said to me, “When are you going to do your life’s work?” It made me stop and think. Life is short, too short not to be working towards your life’s purpose. Remembering all the people who helped me along the way, and being thankful for the impact they had, makes me want to get involved and be part of making that impact on others.”
If you feel like you have something to give back, consider becoming a Big Buddy. You can find out everything that is required here: bigbuddy.org.nz/one-to-onevolunteer-mentor/
At Channel Mag, we love seeing people enjoying their retirement lifestyles in the wonderful range of retirement villages we have north of the Harbour Bridge. The residents seem to have so much fun at these villages, taking part in so many pastimes. For this issue, we’ve talked to interesting people from four different villages, Janet, Angela, Nancy and Leigh, who are making the most of their retirement years – they look to be living the dream while still indulging in things that keep them busy and fulfilled.
The Poynton Retirement Lifestyle Village, Takapuna
Janet Newport was born and bred on the Shore, growing up in Murray’s Bay. She did all her schooling locally, and she says the family spent lots of time at Murrays Bay Beach during their childhood; her Mum would bring lunch and an umbrella. Janet now lives at The Poynton in Takapuna, a Metlifecare Village. Her sister also lives in the same village (with her husband), and they have a brother who lives in northern NSW with his family. Janet says she started playing tennis at a young age at Browns Bay and later at Mairangi Bay with many of the club’s members now living at The Poynton. Janet is a keen knitter and spends lots of time making items for charity.
Channel Mag: What prompted you to begin knitting?
Janet Newport: Mum taught us to knit at a young age as an activity in the school holidays.
What's your proudest knitting moment?
Seeing my daughter as a baby in outfits I had knitted.
What do you enjoy about life at The Poynton?
Location, security and convenience were factors in choosing The Poynton as my home, but it offers so much more. We have a great cafe culture and also dining each week. The residents committee provide excellent entertainment and guest speakers, and there are a multitude of sporting activities and craft groups.
What's the best life advice anyone has ever given you? Take advantage of any opportunity in front of you if possible.
Northbridge Residential Village, Northcote
Angela Antony has lived on the Shore for over 60 years (Northcote, Takapuna and Milford). In her early years, she spent time in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington and London. Her family is very involved in the arts, with her children working in the entertainment industry, and John, her late husband, was a founder of Tadpole Productions. Angela’s working life was in arts marketing, administration, advertising, research, public relations, design, journalism and promotions. She’s worked with numerous arts organisations and councils. Hobbies and work have always intertwined for Angela – she got involved in musical theatre, where she met John. Angela has also served as a Takapuna Community Board member and as a Justice of the Peace (JP).
I never imagined I would live in a retirement village. But circumstances changed, and I moved to Northbridge Village last year when the right apartment became available. It has definitely been the right decision…
Channel Magazine: Where did your passion for theatre come from, and what's your earliest memory of it?
Angela Antony: My wider family were all connected to the arts in some way – film, dance, singing, painting. The arts were a part of my life from as young as I can remember. And it continues, our daughter Rachel is CEO of Greenstone, the TV production company and our son Todd is an international photographer based in London. I am a Life Member of North Shore Music Theatre, The PumpHouse Theatre, The Lake House Arts Centre and Tadpole Theatre Productions. I also have a Civic Award for arts services and a 1997 Queens Service Medal (QSM) for services to the arts and the establishment of the Bruce Mason Centre.
Tell readers about your involvement in Tadpole productions.
My husband John Antony founded Tadpole Productions with Louise Wallace back in 2011, and I did their admin, costumes and helped with marketing, etc. In 2015, after John died, I went onto the Tadpole Board as their administrator and continue in this role today.
What do you enjoy about life at Northbridge?
I never imagined I would live in a retirement village. But circumstances changed, and I moved to Northbridge Village last year when the right apartment became available. It has definitely been the right decision, with my family out of the country so much. Most of my closest friends are here; there is always something happening, and it is so close to everything I am still involved in.
What production have you been involved in that you were particularly proud of, and why?
Having passed my second 40th birthday, there have been too many things I have been involved with to single out just one, but I am proud of initiating the Bruce Mason Centre project and my role as founder director and original board member. Also, as Chairman of Arts Advocates Auckland and as a former Patron of The PumpHouse Theatre.
What is your favourite theatre production or movie of all time and why?
My fondest is the musical 'The King and I'. I met John on stage in the Wellington Operatic festival production in 1961. Then I was dancing in the same show at His Majesty’s Theatre in Auckland in 1967 when we got engaged. In 1972, we did the show for North Shore Operatic, and I was pregnant with our first child, who then became a dancer in the same role I had done when John produced the show in 1993!
Nancy Drake lives at Lady Allum. She’s a mother of four and a lively creative with a passion for spinning yarns and creating woollen items, which is something she has done for 58 years. Nancy has lived a very interesting life, growing up on a dairy farm on Porana Road on the Shore. After marrying her husband, John, his teaching career took them throughout New Zealand, and it was then that she began spinning and creating with wool. Nancy and John lived in Tirau for a time and created the iconic big sheep landmark, a corrugated iron sheep sculpture. The town is now known as the 'Corrugated Iron Capital of New Zealand'. Along with this, some of Nancy’s spinning work is archived at Te Papa. She tells Channel Mag about her varied life, her three years at Lady Allum and her passion for spinning.
Channel Magazine: How did you first get into spinning?
Nancy Drake: When my husband was working in the Wairarapa, I was taught to spin by the wife of a head teacher of another school. After we had lunch with them one day, she was spinning with the wool from her farm, and she asked if I wanted to have a go. My husband bought me a spinning wheel for my birthday, and I have now been spinning my own yarn for 58 years.
In many ways, living here feels like I’ve come full circle. I went to Milford Primary as a child, and now, all these years later, I’m back in the same community at Lady Allum.
Any knitting clubs at Lady Allum, and what do you enjoy about living there?
How do you dye the wool, and what sort of products do you make with it?
After it’s been washed and the lanolin is removed, you put it in a pot and dye it. I have a particular brand of dye I like. I won a major prize for an Afghan rug, which I dyed the wool for; it also has some crochet on it. The rug was bought by the Q2 Arts Council, and it’s now at Te Papa archived, which is nice.
What item that you’ve made are you most proud of?
Hard question, but I like making jerseys and spares of socks. I recently made two blankets that I started knitting out of different scraps of mohair, angora, and alpaca - my sister-in-law wants one of these!
I love living at Lady Allum. One of the highlights of my week is joining the craft group – it’s a wonderful mix of people who enjoy crochet, knitting, and crossstitch. We meet weekly, and it’s a great way to connect, create, and share our love of crafts. In many ways, living here feels like I’ve come full circle. I went to Milford Primary as a child, and now, all these years later, I’m back in the same community at Lady Allum. I really enjoy the independence I have here. The staff are supportive and kind, the location is great – and it’s reassuring to know that care is available on-site if I ever need it. It truly feels like home.
Best piece of advice someone has given you?
Follow your dreams.
Leigh Elder started off as a physical education teacher and has lived a varied life since. He’s been involved in life coaching, rest-home ownership, column writing, and with the Eat For Keeps programme, helping thousands of people with weight and diabetes problems. He now happily lives at the William Sanders Ryman Village in Devonport.
Channel Magazine: You have lived an active life. Why is that important to you?
Leigh Elder: I was really fortunate to be able to play a number of sports, including golf, tennis, table tennis, cricket and basketball at rep or senior club level. I’m kind of still hardwired to keep challenging myself physically and realise the importance of doing this to retain my overall physical abilities into old age.
What inspired you to write your books on ageing?
I’d had two other popular health books published about my Eat For Keeps programme. Having seen so many people achieve life-changing results by making a few permanent changes to their food and lifestyle choices, it seemed like a natural progression to write a book on aging well.
How long did it take you to write the books, and what was the writing process like for you?
It probably took a year for each of the first two books. “Don’t Act Your Age – Living younger can be age-defying” is the title of this new one, and it’s been a fascinating journey over the past couple of years. Quite a privilege to be able to meet and write the life stories of incredible super-agers like legendary athletics coach Arch Jelley, who at 103 still does 100 squats a day and walks a few kilometres. I’m hoping readers will be motivated, inspired and learn ways to lead their best possible lives. It’s being launched at our village on 19 September, and I hope locals will come along and meet some of these super-agers.
You worked as a physical education teacher. What advice would you pass on to younger generations today when it comes to health, fitness and wellbeing?
You have been gifted with this once-in-alifetime opportunity on planet earth and your incredible human body, which performs
miracles for you every day. Make sure you do your very best to look after it!
Do you lead or participate in any wellness activities at the village?
I’ve run a couple of physical functionality groups and a three-month wellness challenge so far, and happy to continue with others. My new book has an excellent lifestyle challenge in it, and I’m hoping that lots of people will give this a go.
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz SimonWattsMP
For further information and to complete an online application www.tps.school.nz
Closing date for applications is Wednesday 8 October 2025
Ballot (if reqd) drawn Wednesday 15 October 2025 Results emailed within 3 school days.
dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz DanBidoisMP
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This spring, North Shore Heat Pumps is helping homeowners across Auckland’s North Shore tackle seasonal challenges like lingering dampness, the effects of coastal humidity, and pollen making its way indoors. While insulation and heating are important, proper ventilation is the key to creating a fresh, dry, and healthy home.
We recommend Mitsubishi Electric’s Lossnay Ventilation System. It can work as a stand-alone solution providing effective ventilation or be integrated with a ducted heat pump system, so you get heating, cooling, and fresh filtered air delivered throughout your home.
Why ventilation matters
New Zealand homes are often built to hold warmth in, but without the right airflow, moisture from cooking, showers, and even breathing builds up inside. Over time, this can lead to condensation, mould growth, and poor air quality. Not only is this uncomfortable, it can also impact your family’s health and damage furnishings.
How Lossnay works
The Lossnay system uses efficient heat recovery ventilation to improve indoor air quality while helping maintain a comfortable temperature. Instead of letting valuable warmth escape through open windows, Lossnay brings in fresh, filtered outdoor air while recovering up to 86% of the heat from the outgoing stale air and using it to pre-warm (or pre-cool) the incoming air, so your existing heating or cooling system doesn’t have to work as hard to achieve the desired temperature.
The benefits
• Fresh, dry homes – no more cold draughts from traditional ventilation.
• Healthier air – reduces allergens, dust, and pollutants.
• Lower power bills – keeps warmth in so you’re not reheating cold air.
• Lossnay wi-fi control – see and feel the difference with real-time heat recovery insights and filter change reminders.
We’re your local Mitsubishi Electric specialists
North Shore Heat Pumps has been installing and servicing Mitsubishi Electric systems for over 16 years. We understand the unique needs of North Shore homes and can recommend the perfect heating, cooling, and ventilation solutions for your space. From first consultation to final installation, we make the process seamless so you can breathe easy and stay comfortable in every season.
This spring, make your home healthier, drier, and more comfortable with Mitsubishi Electric Lossnay Ventilation and ducted air conditioning from North Shore Heat Pumps. Book your free in-home consultation today.
Phone: 09 915 0796
North Shore Heat Pumps Ltd, a division of ARA Ltd 112 Sunnybrae Road, Glenfield, sales@northshoreheatpumps.co.nz, northshoreheatpumps.co.nz
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
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
When a family home becomes part of an estate, emotions and memories often run high – especially when multiple siblings are involved in the sale. While the property may represent a valuable financial asset, it’s also a place of shared history, which can make decision-making complicated.
One of the biggest challenges is reaching consensus. Siblings may have differing opinions on whether to sell, keep, or rent the property. Even when all agree to sell, disagreements can arise over pricing, marketing strategies, or the choice of a real estate agent. These differences can stall the process, sometimes for months, which may affect the eventual sale price.
A practical way forward is to appoint one sibling as the decision-maker or engage an independent executor or trustee to manage the sale process.
Another hurdle is financial expectations. One sibling might push for a quick sale to access funds, while another prefers to wait for optimal market conditions. Disputes can also occur over who covers maintenance, rates, and staging costs during the sales period.
There’s also the emotional weight of parting with a property tied to childhood memories. Clearing belongings and preparing the home for viewings can be stressful, particularly if the family isn’t on the same page.
A practical way forward is to appoint one sibling as the decisionmaker or engage an independent executor or trustee to manage the sale process. This helps keep decisions objective and timelines on track.
Ultimately, selling an estate property with siblings requires clear communication, respect for differing viewpoints, and a focus on the shared goal: honouring the past while making the best financial decision for the future.
Yan Davies, a long-time North Shore local, has amassed a wide network of quality clients and superior knowledge of the area. Recently, she has sold a few estate properties and managed sensitive transactions with care, professionalism and empathy. 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
By Steve Deacon, Director at Seal Plumbing and Gas
North Shore is one of Auckland’s most desirable places to retire. From golden beaches to vibrant cafés and community spaces, it’s a lifestyle built around comfort and ease. For many retirees, that comfort starts at home, with reliable plumbing and gas systems that keep life running smoothly.
Regular maintenance can catch small leaks before they become costly repairs…
At Seal Plumbing & Gas, we know how important it is to have peace of mind in retirement. Whether you’re in a modern apartment or a classic coastal home, reliable hot water, safe gas heating, and well-maintained bathrooms all play a huge part in everyday wellbeing.
Tip for retirees: One of the simplest ways to avoid plumbing issues is to schedule an annual plumbing and gas check. Regular maintenance can catch small leaks before they become costly repairs, improve water pressure, and ensure your hot water system is working efficiently. This not only saves money but also gives you the reassurance that everything is safe and dependable.
North Shore living is about enjoying the little things: morning beach walks, family dinners, or relaxing evenings at home. With Seal Plumbing & Gas, you don’t have to worry about plumbing hassles getting in the way. We’re proud to bring honest, reliable, and friendly service to our local community, so you can focus on enjoying your retirement.
Ready to make the most of your North Shore home?
Call Seal Plumbing & Gas today on 021 79 79 12 for expert plumbing and gas solutions tailored to you. sealplumbing.co.nz
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and Director at Lake Road Electrical
There’s a lot to love about North Shore living, from the coastal walks and laid-back lifestyle to the strong sense of community that makes it perfect for families and retirees alike. But while it’s easy to fall for the beachside vibe, it’s the behind-the-scenes stuff that really powers comfortable living, and that’s where Lake Road Electrical steps in.
Proudly based on the North Shore, Lake Road Electrical is your local sparkie crew, trusted by Shore locals for reliable residential work done right the first time. Whether you’re sprucing up a character home in Takapuna, building new in Bayswater, or getting your place retirement-ready, Lake Road Electrical's team brings practical know-how and genuine Kiwi care.
Retirement at home should be safe and stress-free. Lake Road Electrical can help with things like sensor lighting, accessible switch positioning, and full safety checks – small upgrades that make a big difference to day-to-day living. No cowboys here, just down-toearth experts who treat every home with respect.
Kiwis love a good DIY reno, and if you’re modernising, the team offers smart solutions like energy-efficient LED lighting, underfloor heating, and future-ready wiring for smart homes, all while keeping your power bill in check.
Owner Lewis leads the team with a focus on honest service, high standards, and local pride. He’s all about clear communication – no techy jargon – and delivering quality work that lasts. Lake Road Electrical is also big on safety, especially in older homes, offering wiring inspections and upgrades to give you peace of mind.
If you're looking to get the most out of North Shore living – whether it’s comfort, safety, or a fresh new look – Lake Road Electrical is the local to call.
Back your backyard. Support local.
Lewis Rudall
- your friendly local electrician
Lake Road Electrical
029 128 7494
lakeroadelectrical.co.nz
Just as updating or staging the interior of your home can make a world of difference to buyers, so spending a little time on your gardens can make a world of difference and greatly boost your kerb appeal.
You don't have to go to huge lengths though; there are some very simple and straightforward ways to make a huge difference. Most buyers will be concerned with the house and its location first and foremost, but they will certainly appreciate a garden that looks open, attractive, neat, and easy to care for. Here are the main steps you need to take to get your garden ship-shape:
Tidying – Remove any garden debris, perished trees and shrubs or broken or tired looking furniture. Rake up leaves, prune and dead head your shrubs.
Trimming – Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed back away from gutters and windows. Give your hedges and shrubs a nice sharp trim and if you have trees or shrubs along your driveway make sure they are trimmed back as much as possible so the driveway and paths feel more spacious and open.
Weeding and mulching – Weed all garden beds and if possible cover with a nice thick layer of bark or mulch. This will not only keep the weeds away for longer, it really neatens the look of a garden, making everything look fresh, tidy and healthy.
Lawns – A freshly mown lawn is a must, while a wild unkempt lawn just makes buyers think of lost Sunday afternoons.
Cleaning – Give decks, paths and driveways a good wash or water blast. Now is also a great time to check for repairs to hard assets such as decks, fences, and retaining walls.
Additions – If your outdoor furniture is tired, broken or nonexistent it would be good to buy or borrow a nice fresh set, so buyers can envision themselves relaxing in their new home. You can add a simple pop of colour with some seasonal flowers, or an outdoor mirror or sculpture can really finish off an entrance or make a gloomy corner much brighter and more inviting.
Amanda Graham
Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz
When Kelly Olsen stepped into the role of chief executive at Wingspan Trust in January 2024, she knew she was joining a well-respected organisation with a proud 131-year history of strengthening whānau and supporting children in Tāmaki Makaurau. With a strong business background and experience in the disability sector, Kelly’s skills were well-matched to guide Wingspan into a new era. What she couldn’t have predicted was just how quickly the funding landscape for non-government organisations would change.
Like many charities across the country, Wingspan suddenly faced significant uncertainty. Political shifts were reshaping how community services were supported, and vital funding streams that had always sustained the organisation became less reliable.
Rather than be daunted, Kelly saw a challenge. “It was disappointing at first,” she admits, “but I’ve always believed that when one door closes, another one is waiting to be opened. The key is finding it.”
For Wingspan, that new door turned out to be Northspan Wellbeing – a bold, forward-thinking social enterprise launched in the heart of Takapuna.
A new way forward
Based on Lake Road, Northspan Wellbeing is more than just a modern, fee-based counselling practice. It is the official charitable partner of Wingspan Trust, built on the principle of paying-it-forward. Every session held at Northspan contributes directly to subsidising counselling support at Wingspan. In other words, when you look after your own wellbeing through Northspan, you’re also helping someone else in the community to access vital mental health care.
The newly renovated Northspan centre is already home to a dedicated team of 12 counsellors, including a creative arts therapist, each bringing unique expertise to their practice. From children and young people to couples, families and individuals, the Northspan team supports people from all walks of life to navigate challenges with empathy, skill and trust.
Kelly describes the model as a win-win. “New Zealand is one of the most charitable and generous countries in the world. We’re consistently ranked among the top 10 globally for our communityminded nature. Northspan Wellbeing gives people an opportunity to take care of themselves, while also ensuring vulnerable whānau and children can access the support they desperately need.”
Strengthening community, one session at a time
At its heart, this new enterprise is about sustainability. Kelly and her team know that relying solely on uncertain donations and fluctuating funding is no longer enough. By creating a social enterprise that feeds directly back into community programmes, Wingspan Trust is taking control of its future and ensuring its services remain available for generations to come.
This approach also reflects a deeper cultural value many New Zealanders hold dear: manaakitanga – the idea that caring for others
is a responsibility we all share. When someone books a session with Northspan, they’re not only investing in their own wellbeing, but also demonstrating care for someone else who may not otherwise afford the same opportunity.
ahead
As Kelly puts it, “This new chapter is about resilience and innovation. We’re not just waiting for change to happen, we’re creating a model that works for everyone.”
With Northspan Wellbeing now firmly established, the wheel is back in Wingspan’s hands. By steering their own course, they’re proving that in times of uncertainty, creativity and community spirit can open doors to lasting solutions.
Northspan Wellbeing 400 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 419 9853
hello@northspanwellbeing.org.nz northspanwellbeing.org.nz instagram facebook and Linkedin: @northspanwellbeing
By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH
Did you know you can see a dental hygienist without a dentist’s referral? At Mint Dental Hygiene in Takapuna, we believe access to oral care should be simple, personal, and preventative – not dependent on a gatekeeper.
We welcome patients directly, whether you're due for a routine clean, concerned about bleeding gums, managing braces or implants, or simply want brighter teeth.
Modern dental hygiene is about far more than a quick polish. Research shows strong links between gum disease and systemic health, including heart disease, diabetes and pregnancy complications. That’s why we focus on prevention, early detection, and gentle, evidence-based care.
Our services range from standard maintenance to deep periodontal cleaning, with tailored support for children, pregnant women, orthodontic patients, and those with implants. We use nonabrasive techniques for implant care, and provide detailed reports to your own dentist when needed, so you remain fully in control of your care.
We also offer low-level laser therapy for gum inflammation, desensitising treatments, and both in-chair and take-home whitening options for a safe, effective glow.
For those wanting consistent care, our simple membership plan includes regular hygiene visits and savings on additional treatments, making it easier to prioritise your health without surprise costs.
Taking care of your mouth shouldn’t be complicated. We’re here to make it simple.
Edgcombe BSc, RDH
Dental
Hygienist
424 Lake Road, Takapuna 021 2306517
info@mintdentalhygiene.co.nz
mintdentalhygiene.co.nz
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
At its heart, audiology is about people. It’s about listening, understanding and finding the right hearing solution for each individual. But not all hearing clinics are set up the same way.
Independent audiology clinics, like ours, are free to focus on what really matters: the needs of the person in front of us. We’re not owned by hearing aid manufacturers or large overseas chains, and that makes a difference.
Instead of being limited to one brand or a handful of models, we can offer a wide choice of hearing aids from multiple manufacturers. That means more flexibility to match the right technology to your hearing loss, lifestyle and budget – not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Just as importantly, our advice isn’t influenced by sales targets or corporate guidelines. We take the time to understand your hearing needs, explain your options and support you to make an informed decision – without pressure. And the care doesn’t stop after you’ve chosen a hearing aid. We continue to adjust, fine-tune and support your hearing over time, so your devices keep working for you as life changes.
We’re locally owned and operated, with strong ties to our community and the people we help. While some providers may appear local, they can actually be part of larger national or international groups. Choosing an independent clinic means supporting a genuinely local business – one that’s here for the long haul and focused on your long-term hearing health.
Whether it’s helping you choose the right hearing aids, supporting you with tinnitus or simply offering honest advice, being independent means we can always put people first. And if you ever need us, we’re here – no pressure, no strings attached.
After Brent McMurchy’s wife, Catrina, died, there were a lot of “difficult firsts”. His young son Campbell’s first birthday without his mum, the family’s first Christmas, and his and Catrina’s wedding anniversary.
But as difficult as these “firsts” were, he was able to guide Campbell through them, with the support of Harbour Hospice. On Sunday 17 August, Brent took the stage as guest speaker to share his story at Harbour Hospice’s twenty-eighth Vintners’ Brunch at the Pullman Hotel in Auckland.
He told the packed room that the bereavement support Hospice gave him after his wife had died in hospice care in April 2024 had given him the tools to navigate those firsts. He talked about how safe Hospice had made his family feel, and how surprised he had been to find that the counselling sessions he’d taken up during Catrina’s illness continued after she passed away. He was also invited to join a hospice bereavement group, which he still stays in touch with regularly.
“We are not just here for families during their loved one’s illness, but also afterwards to support them in their grief and loss,” says Harbour Hospice Chief Executive Amanda Fowler. “Last year we provided 800 in-person counselling sessions for bereaved family members and reached out over 2000 times, by way of phone calls, in-person conversations and ongoing support, alongside all the care we extend to patients.”
Amanda says Sunday’s event was all about ensuring that this bereavement support and Hospice’s other vital support services can continue for local families. “While we are fortunate to receive around
half the funding we need from Health NZ, we rely on the generosity of our community for the rest.”
Vintners’ Brunch is Harbour Hospice’s largest annual fundraiser, connecting guests through ten exceptional food and wine pairings created by some of Auckland’s best restaurants and New Zealand’s finest wineries. It has always been wellsupported by generous local businesses, and this year saw the addition of many new faces, ensuring that vital community support continues. Money raised will help fund Harbour Hospice’s often unseen work in the community, as well as ensure that support for local families can continue. The winning food and wine match, as voted by guests, was Café Hanoi and Saint Clair Family Estate, who served farmed kingfish crudo with a lemongrass, palm sugar and ginger dressing, Thai basil oil, and toasted rice, paired with a 2023 riesling, Pioneer Block 9 'Big John'.
The event was co-hosted by broadcaster Pippa Wetzell and wine expert Vic Williams, with North Shore auctioneer Robert Tulp expertly guiding the room through an exciting live auction. Guests bid on 116 live and silent auction items.
“We know we provide an integral service, and we know we can continue to provide it with the generous support of our community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in Vintners’ this year,” Amanda says.
Local business owners, if you’d like to be part of this incredible community event next year, please contact Jodi Preston-Thomas at Jodi.Preston-Thomas@harbourhospice.org.nz.
It has been a big week for our First XV. Fresh off winning the North Harbour 1A final, the team backed it up with a 29–24 victory away at King’s College in the Blues final. This result puts our first XV into the Top 4 National finals, to be held in Palmerston North.
The journey to the Blues title began with our First XV rugby team winning its fifth consecutive North Harbour championship with a 39–18 win over Whangārei Boys’ High School at North Harbour Stadium
on Saturday, 16 August. The scoreline did not reflect the tight game for much of the afternoon, with our First XV only pulling away in the final minutes. Standout moments included a spectacular 50m diving try from centre Matthew Fleming and a strong performance from blindside flanker Solomone Tu’itupou, who was named player of the day. Late tries from Luke Lemalu and Travis Findlay sealed the result in front of a 2,500-strong crowd. The victory continues Westlake’s
remarkable record in the competition, with 22 championship titles since 1985 and just two losses in their past 20 finals.
On top of the Blues final win, our 1R (U85kg) rugby team won its Auckland final for the first time, while our U14 Black team won its North Harbour division. We’d like to thank Archibald & Shorter North Shore, SAS Sport, Gavin Roberts – Auckland House & Properties and Exedy NZ for their ongoing commitment to our school rugby programme.
Our premier football team faced a highstakes clash against St Kentigern College on Friday, 15 August, needing a win to secure the league title.
The team rose to the challenge in style, racing to a 4–0 lead within the first 30 minutes thanks to goals from Charley Mueller, Billy Higgins, Yassin Ayoub, and Kai Barrett. The scoreline remained unchanged, sealing an emphatic victory and the championship. This is the third year in a row that Westlake Boys High School has taken out this title. The trophy they won was first presented in the 1920s and is likely the oldest Auckland school sports trophy. Across 14 matches, Westlake Boys delivered consistency and attacking flair,
finishing the season with ten wins, two draws, and just two losses, alongside an impressive +34 goal difference. This record highlights not only their dominance on the pitch but also their resilience and composure under pressure.
The team has been expertly guided by head coach Callum Simmonds, whose leadership has fostered a culture of excellence and unity. His tactical insight and ability to bring out the best in his players have been key to the side’s success. He has been well supported throughout the season by assistant coach Mr Dale, manager Mr Douglas, and physio Georgie Carroll. The passion shown by the players in the Westlake Boys shirt reflects the role football
plays in shaping character, building lifelong friendships, and performing at the highest youth level in Auckland. This success continues the proud legacy of Westlake Boys football, made possible by the dedication of coaches, administrators, parents, and the wider school community. We’d like to thank our football partners North Shore Toyota, Oceanbridge Shipping and SAS Sport for their continued support.
Westlake ensembles once again impressed audiences and judges at the KBB Music Festival, held from 11–16 August at Holy Trinity Cathedral and St Mary’s in Parnell. Across six days of competition, our students delivered several memorable performances, earning four gold awards:
• Westlake Symphony Orchestra (with Westlake Girls) – Gold, Best Performance of a Romantic work (Poet and Peasant Overture); Best Performance of a work in an “Other” style
• Westlake Concert Band (with Westlake Girls) – Gold, Best Performance of a New Zealand work (Luke Ding’s Piano Concerto)
• Westlake Big Band (with Westlake Girls) – Gold, Best Performance of
a work in an “Other” style ('What About Me?' by Snarky Puppy)
• Westlake Boys Camerata – Gold, Best Performance of a work in an “Other” style (Century One Tusonic)
Other results:
• Chamber Orchestra (with Westlake Girls) – Silver
• Symphonic Band – Silver
• Stage Band – Silver
A special thank you to our directors: Mr David Squire (Symphony Orchestra), Mr Eddie Hare (Stage Band, Big Band), and Mr Warwick Robinson (Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Festival Director). Congratulations to all our talented musicians on another outstanding KBB Festival.
Rosmini College's peer support programme is a cornerstone of the school's culture, offering new Year 7 students a successful and invaluable transition. The programme pairs Year 13 students with their younger peers, creating a mentorship rooted in the school's strong sense of brotherhood. Over six months, the senior students dedicate many hours to mentoring the Year 7s, acting as older brothers. Year 13 peer supporter Toby Morgan describes his experience as both a "privilege and a blessing".
"From Orientation Day to Beach Day and right through to the final session, being part of peer support has been an amazing journey," Toby says. "It allowed me to connect with
younger students, share what I've learned, and help them confidently find their way through their first year, making them feel like they truly belong."
"Peer support is so much more than just a programme," Toby explains. "It's about
introducing our juniors into our Rosminian brotherhood. I'm so thankful for this chance to contribute to such a positive environment and to make a real difference in these younger students' lives, just like they've made a difference in mine."
The last few weeks have seen remarkable achievements from Rosmini's young athletes, with several teams and individuals clinching top honours.
Takapuna Tipu Invitational Champions
The Year 7 & 8 football team proved to be an unstoppable force at the inaugural Takapuna Tipu Invitational. They had an incredible day, going undefeated with a perfect record of six wins in six games. The team's dominance was clear with a goal tally of 14 scored and only one conceded. A special shout-out to Nathan France, who was named tournament MVP.
Hockey Harbour Championships
Rosmini's hockey teams had an exceptional season in the North Harbour Intermediate competition. The Rosmini Red team finished at the top of the A Grade, sharing the title with Kristin. The Rosmini Blue team also had a brilliant run, tying for third place with North Cross.
Harbour Rugby Youth 16 Champions
The Rosmini Youth 16 team secured a thrilling victory in a nail-biting final against Mahurangi. The game came down to the wire, with Rosmini emerging victorious with a final score of 22-19. The winning moment came from a clutch 40-plus-metre penalty kick by Kayden Godbold.
Podium finish at Climbing Series
On an individual level, Leo Goffinet demonstrated incredible skill and focus at the 2025 Auckland College Climbing Series, finishing with an impressive third place finish in the Junior Male category.
Rosmini College had two ensembles performing in the KBB Festival this year: Rosmini Orchestra and Rosmini Big Band. Both ensembles performed exceptionally well and also enjoyed listening to and supporting other ensembles from schools around Auckland.
At the gala concert at the end of the week, awards were given out to each of the 156 ensembles that performed. Rosmini Big Band received a bronze award, and Rosmini Orchestra was awarded a highly
commended. Rosmini Big Band last performed at the festival around six years ago, so receiving a bronze award in its first year back was a great achievement. A surprise award for the Rosmini Big Band at the gala concert was the Peter Goddard award. This award is for “an ensemble whose performance, presentation or behaviour embodies the values that Peter Goddard held” in “recognition of the support given by Peter Goddard during his lifetime to the development of young musicians".
TGS alumna and Commonwealth Games diver Maggie Squire has just completed her first year as a student athlete, diving and studying Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Princeton University - an experience she calls “next level.”
Back home for the college break, Maggie says getting to the Ivy League wasn’t easy. She credits much of her success to support from Takapuna Grammar and the school's Director of Sport, Joshua Choice, whose guidance helped her navigate the complex U.S. athletics and admissions system. “I reached out to Josh and he was a huge help,” she says. “The U.S. system is so different, and having someone who knows the ins and outs was invaluable.”
American-born Josh, a former footballer for Winthrop University in South Carolina, has helped dozens of TGS students secure athletic scholarships and aid to study overseas. His advice saved Maggie from paying recruitment companies - with no guarantee of successand helped her connect directly with coaches. “Princeton doesn’t offer athletic scholarshipsit’s all need-based,” Maggie said. “I’m not paying anything, which is pretty insane because we
worked out it would cost around $1 million over four years.”
She was drawn to Princeton’s broad, hands-on engineering programme and knew it was the right fit the moment she arrived. “I walked in and just knew—it was next level.”
The university’s rich history and stunning architecture also left an impression. “Einstein taught here. The buildings have massive windows, archways, and ivy climbing up the walls—it’s pretty incredible.” Campus life is vibrant. Maggie describes the “orange bubble” where students live on campus all four years. “There are always festivals, free food trucks - cheesecake on a stick, shaved ice, Philly cheesesteaks.”
Despite a demanding schedule - training and studying from 6am to midnight - she’s found ways to unwind. “There’s an ice rink, a pottery studio, mocktails, and painting nights. You can even skate on the lake when it freezes.” Looking ahead, Maggie hopes to combine her love of sport and engineering in a career with high-performance teams like America’s Cup or Formula 1. “Mixing the competitive nature of sport with engineering would be a dream.
Takapuna Grammar School has introduced a full-length skirt option for 2026 – a first in its nearly 100-year history. Designed for comfort and warmth, the ankle-length skirt has been warmly received by students. Principal Mary Nixon said many are excited to start the new school year in the updated uniform.
“Our students take pride in their uniform and wanted a skirt that reflects that,” she said. “They were after something suitable for both formal and informal occasions, and they’re eager to showcase the new look.”
This change is part of a wider uniform refresh. From 2026, all students will wear the current two-pleat senior skirt in either ankle-length or just above the knee. Both options, along with the existing trousers, pair well with the increasingly popular school blazer.
Some of New Zealand’s top comedians entertained guests in Te Poho at Takapuna Grammar, helping raise over $10,000 for the school.
Hosted by the PTA, the event featured a stellar lineup including 7 Days head writer Nic Rado, comedy favourite Justine Smith, the deadpan cowboy Wilson Dixon, and Irish comic David Stuart. A live art auction, led by local real estate agent and sponsor Michael Swarbrick, was a highlight –featuring sought-after items like Bold Blue Day by artist Greer Clayton, a weekend getaway, and a private cinema hire.
At Westlake Girls High School, we believe that every student, regardless of their background or personality, has the potential to lead. We don't define strong leaders solely by the traditional traits of confidence, sociability, and decisiveness. Skills that may be less obvious are just as valuable, like listening skills, intuition, objectivity, and patience. This inclusive approach to leadership ensures that every
student who is willing to step up, contribute, and make a difference has the opportunity to lead.
Our leadership pathway starts early, with opportunities in the classroom, through cultural groups, sports teams, service initiatives, clubs, at assemblies, and House activities. By the senior years, students can hold a wide range of formal roles, from Prefects and House Captains to cultural leaders, sports captains, and
committee chairs. We are especially proud of our Tuākana – select Year 13 students who mentor Year 9s from their very first days at Westlake in a deeply caring 'big-sister, little-sister' relationship. These diverse roles develop skills that last a lifetime – communication, decision-making, empathy, and resilience – while making a tangible impact on our school community. We encourage leaders to initiate projects, champion causes,
and mentor younger students, all while balancing academic commitments.
The diversity of our leadership opportunities reflects the diversity of our student body. We value leaders who bring fresh ideas, who listen, who are inclusive, and who aren't afraid to roll up their sleeves. Whether it's on the field, on stage, or behind the scenes, Westlake leaders know leadership is about lifting others, not seeking the spotlight.
“We are proud of the lived evidence of our mission to empower the young women who pass through our school. We are all leaders, and it is wonderful to see the myriad ways that leadership is expressed in all different levels and many different areas of our school.”
Nicky Whitham Blackwell Associate Principal, Westlake Girls High School
The diversity of our leadership opportunities reflects the diversity of our student body.
Under a starry Winter Wonderland theme, Rangitoto College's biennial Summit Academy Awards Gala Dinner took place on Friday 8 August. This event is dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of chosen alumni. The event brought together our Rangitoto community for an evening of recognition and reminiscence.
The 2025 honourees, Chloe Gong, Connor Archbold, Dr Jane Alsweiler, Bryony Botha and our "Rangi Hero", David Goldfinch, were lauded for their outstanding leadership, professional excellence, and positive societal impact. The Alumni Committee meticulously selected these individuals, reflecting the college's commitment to fostering wellrounded and influential citizens.
RANGITOTO COLLEGE PROUDLY PRESENTS:
Chloe Gong
A New York Times best-selling author, Chloe Gong is an accomplished novelist specialising in young adult fiction. Her debut novel, 'These Violent Delights', was published when she
was just 21 and became a breakout success, showcasing her immense talent and creativity.
Connor Archbold
Connor Archbold is the co-founder and co-CEO of Tracksuit; a software company in New Zealand that helps brands track their performance. His background includes working as a corporate lawyer and launching Auckland's first accelerator programme, Lightning Lab.
Dr. Jane Alsweiler
Dr. Jane Alsweiler is a highly respected professor and clinical neonatal paediatrician at the University of Auckland and Auckland City Hospital. Her work focuses on critical research into neonatal health, particularly glucose homeostasis and growth in newborns. Her dedication to improving the lives of infants makes her a truly deserving honouree, demonstrating the impact one can have in the scientific and medical community.
Bryony Botha
A celebrated New Zealand track and road cyclist, Bryony Botha has made a name
for herself on the world stage. She has represented her country with distinction, winning a silver medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in the team pursuit. Her accomplishments highlight her incredible athleticism and dedication, making her an inspirational role model for current and future students.
David Goldfinch
A New Zealand Police constable, David Goldfinch was named a "Rangi Hero" for his bravery after he was seriously injured in the line of duty on June 19, 2020. He was shot four times while responding to a traffic stop. His partner, Constable Matthew Hunt, was fatally shot. Goldfinch survived his injuries and later gave evidence that helped convict the man who shot them both. He was awarded the New Zealand Bravery Medal for his actions.
This evening was a phenomenal success and a testament to the long-lasting impact of our thriving Rangitoto community. Thank you to all who were involved in making this event the wonder that it was.
New Zealand's youth sailing talent was on full display at the recent ILCA Youth World Championships, with two young sailors delivering exceptional, world-class performances. At just 15 years old, Arran Begic competed in the Youth Men's division, while Chloe was crowned the Under 17 World Champion in the highly competitive ILCA 6 class.
In Los Angeles, Chloe took on a formidable field of 80 of the world’s best Under 19 female sailors from 33 countries. Her consistent and composed sailing over six days of racing saw her finish a remarkable 14 points ahead of her closest rival from Switzerland. This stunning victory at her first ILCA class youth world championship earned her the title of Under 17 World Champion. Chloe also secured an impressive 13th place overall in the Under 19 championship.
Also making his world championship debut, Arran Begic, the youngest competitor on the New Zealand team, faced off against 140 sailors. His determination and focus on growth paid off as he qualified for the prestigious Gold Fleet finals. In his final race, he achieved a spectacular 12th place finish – the highest placing for any New Zealander in the finals. This is a monumental achievement for the young sailor, who was competing in his first full season in this class of boat. His maturity and positive attitude both on and off the water were a testament to his rising potential.
Rangitoto swimming had a fantastic year, showcasing incredible talent and reinforcing our reputation as a top swimming school. The team dominated at several key competitions, including the Champ of Champs where they won 30 medals and the Individual champs where they secured 24.
The season's highlight was at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Swimming Championships. Our 28-swimmer squad successfully defended the title of Top CoEd Secondary School for an impressive sixth consecutive year. The team also secured the Top Girls Relay School title,
further adding to our legacy.
At the championships, swimmers brought home a total of 15 individual and six relay gold medals, along with 12 silver and 13 bronze. Standout performances included Grayson Coulter with eight individual golds, Monique Wieruszowski with five, and India Vaughn with two. Grayson and Monique also set a combined nine New Zealand age group records, with Grayson single-handedly breaking eight of them.
Ania Maritz, Grayson Coulter, and Monique Wieruszowski were also medal winners at their recent swimming competition in Italy. Congratulations to all who attended.
These amazing achievements wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated parent managers, Michelle Wyatt and Annabelle Chou, and all our parent helpers. A huge thank you to our departing Year 13 swimmers, Ania Maritz, Alexis Buissinne, Kezia Buissinne, and Monique Wieruszowski, for their significant contributions to the team.
Our Kristin Premier Netball Girls’ team has gone back-to-back, winning the North Harbour Premier competition for the second year in a row. Remarkably, the girls had an undefeated season, winning seven out of seven competition matches before heading into the finals.
The second half was a nailbiter, with both teams going goal for goal right up until the last couple of minutes.
Up against last year's finalists, Westlake Girls High School, in the semi-final, the girls put on a clinical performance to win 28-22 and book their spot in the grand final
against Rangitoto College. The grand final took place on Saturday 16 August, on the indoor court at Netball North Harbour, and there was an immense amount of support for both teams in attendance, with the stands and sidelines packed with cheering fans of all ages. The match did not disappoint; it was an absolute heart-stopping affair with incredible skill, stamina, courage and sportsmanship on show throughout its entirety. Our girls had to dig deep and found themselves behind by as many as five points in the first half. However, they rallied back to
trail by just a couple at halftime. The second half was a nailbiter, with both teams going goal for goal right up until the last couple of minutes. With the clock ticking down, our Kristin team found another level to get themselves in the lead and hold on for a pulsating 36-34 victory. With many Year 13 girls in the team, this was a fairytale finish as they represented Kristin on the court for the final time. Congratulations to both teams for a fantastic final; you both played sensational netball, doing yourselves and your schools proud.
Our Middle School production of 'Guys and Dolls Jr.' brought the golden age to the Kristin stage in early August. Around 100 Middle School students were involved on and off the stage to bring this classic stage show to life for three packed-out performances in the Kristin auditorium.
Full of catchy hits, big accents, brilliant lines, fantastic dance numbers and stand-out performances, these students delivered an unforgettable experience that transported the audience straight into 1950s New York. Well done to all our students and staff who were involved, and a big thank you to everyone who came and supported another successful Kristin production.
During the Term 2 holidays, Kristin Head Prefect Cecilia Lin travelled to Suva, Fiji, as part of the Pacific Sister Project – a youth-led initiative that she founded to support girls and young women living in communities vulnerable to the impacts of drug addiction and public health challenges. Fiji plays a key role as a transit point in the South Pacific drug trade, with many trafficked narcotics directed towards New Zealand. Supporting transnational community resilience isn’t just about helping others; it also contributes to safeguarding our communities. During her visit, Cecilia delivered 260 of 1,000 health kits in partnership with the Fiji Red Cross, guided by the Fiji Ministry of Health. These included essential items like sanitary pads, condoms and HIV selftesting kits, along with educational resources about drug harm prevention (partnered with Drug Free World New Zealand).
To begin, she donated resources to Survivors Advocacy Network (SANS), a safe house for sex workers facing addiction and violence. She assisted SANS and Drug Free World Fiji with their outreach efforts at the Fiji Showcase, the biggest annual trade show in Fiji. Cecilia presented her project and future proposals at the biennial Red Cross National Youth Forum, which gathered elected youth leaders from all 16 branches of Red Cross Fiji. She also worked with Aruka Fiji, a local NGO protecting street dwellers, to distribute materials along the streets of Suva. Toward the end of her trip, Fiji National University also got in touch with her to propose a collaboration through their new FNU Association, and she has since been invited
to speak at their upcoming open day, with over 20,000 estimated attendees across campuses.
For now, Cecilia continues to work with the Red Cross executive to reduce barriers in customs for donated goods, and she is also shipping the rest of the 1,000 health packages to Fiji.
“What struck me most was not only the resilience of these young girls, but the warmth and strength of the communities rallying around them. Their strength reminded me that meaningful change starts with compassion, humility and a willingness to listen,” says Cecilia.
Kristin is incredibly proud of Cecilia and the amazing service work she is doing as part of her Pacific Sister Project initiative.
The past few weeks have been a feast of creativity and talent at Carmel College, with our drama and music students taking centre stage in a series of outstanding performances. From Shakespearean comedy to symphonic brilliance, our performing arts students have showcased passion, skill, and teamwork in abundance.
Our Year 11 drama students lit up the Colleen Roche Theatre with a vibrant production of Shakespeare’s 'Twelfth Night'. Audiences were treated to a whirlwind of mistaken identities, tangled love triangles, clever wordplay, and side-splitting comedy. A huge thank you goes to our drama teachers, Elizabeth van Geffen and Adam Middleton, whose creativity, guidance, and encouragement were instrumental in shaping such a polished performance. Bravo, Year 11 drama – until the next curtain call!
On Thursday 31 July, the music department hosted its much-anticipated Annual Showcase – an evening that celebrated the depth and breadth of musical talent
at Carmel. The audience was treated to a vibrant programme featuring the orchestra, Carmini and Carmelites choirs, B4 Tomorrow, jazz band, flute choir, and string ensemble. From traditional folk melodies to the sounds of Bon Jovi and Norah Jones, there was something for everyone.
The music celebrations continued with our Years 7 and 8 choir taking part in the Junior Treble Voices Festival, held at Westlake Girls High School on Friday 1 August. After a day of workshops and rehearsals with guest clinicians, the girls joined other Auckland choirs for a joyful evening concert. They sang with confidence, energy, and heart – representing Carmel beautifully. Special thanks to Mrs Mandy Verdonk and Whaea Kelly for their wonderful support of the students.
In August, our orchestra, directed by Mrs Bev Brockelbank, and jazz band, directed by Carmel's new HOD music, Hayley Barker, proudly represented Carmel at the KBB Music Festival. The KBB Music Festival is one of Auckland’s most prestigious secondary school music events and is the highlight of the year for large ensembles. Both groups performed to an exceptionally
high standard, impressing adjudicators with their musicianship, energy, and ensemble playing. The festival not only provided valuable performance experience but also highlighted the hard work and dedication of our talented student musicians and their directors. The Carmel Orchestra was awarded a bronze award, for the second year in a row, which was accepted on behalf of the orchestra by Oceane Stanfield at the festival gala concert.
We congratulate all of our performers for their commitment to excellence, thank the families and whānau whose support makes these opportunities possible, and celebrate the way Carmel’s performing arts continue to inspire, entertain, and showcase the incredible talents of our students.
Going back to uni after a break can feel like hitting a brick wall made of due dates, 8am lectures and group assignments that somehow always end up being solo missions. Suddenly, your free time vanishes, your to-do list triples, and your energy? Gone. Whether you’re dragging yourself to campus or powering through online classes in bed, here are some tips and hacks to lift your mood when life gets a bit chaotic.
One of the biggest sources of stress for me is the feeling of falling behind, whether it’s missing a lecture or juggling too many shifts at work alongside struggling to keep up with university demands. The most effective way I’ve found to manage this is through proactive planning. Using a journal, digital calendar, or weekly planner to record important deadlines, lecture schedules, and key commitments not only keeps everything organised, but also creates a clear visual roadmap of what’s ahead. This reduces uncertainty, helps prioritise tasks, and ultimately makes it easier to stay on top of responsibilities while maintaining a healthier work–life–study balance.
Establishing a consistent morning and evening routine can be a game-changer for reducing daily stress. While it may sound like advice your mum might give, waking up a little earlier to create space for yourself before the day begins sets a positive tone. Whether it’s taking a refreshing shower, doing your makeup, choosing an outfit you love, or preparing and enjoying a proper breakfast, these small rituals provide a sense of control and calm, helping you start the day without the chaos of rushing. The same principle applies at night. Having a
By Fantasia Nair
wind-down routine, such as reading a book, watching a favourite show, or sipping a warm cup of tea, signals to your body and mind that it’s time to relax. These intentional moments of self-care not only improve your mood but also contribute to better overall wellbeing. Making time for fresh air and socialising can be surprisingly powerful in breaking the monotony of daily life. It’s easy to fall into the cycle of work, uni, home, then repeat without realising how draining that routine can be. Stepping outside for a walk, catching up with a friend over coffee, or even having a quick chat with a flatmate can provide a welcome mental reset. These moments act as small but effective distractions from stress, helping to shift your focus and re-energise your mind. Even just 20 minutes outdoors or in good company can boost your mood, improve concentration, and make the rest of your day feel more manageable.
Here is a list of other mood boosters or relaxants:
• Mindfulness – meditation, yoga, a bath/ shower and journalling.
• Creative outlet – draw, paint, journal, visit an art gallery, bake, or try a craft project.
• Music therapy – listen to your favourite playlist or upbeat tracks to shift your mood.
• Digital detox – take a break from your phone and social media.
• Treat yourself – make a warm drink, enjoy a snack you love, light a scented candle or diffuser.
• Laugh it out – watch a funny video, show, or talk with someone who makes you laugh. At the end of the day, uni will always bring deadlines, early mornings, and the occasional curve ball, but how you manage your mood can make all the difference. By building small, intentional habits into your routine, you can create pockets of calm and joy that help you stay grounded, even when things get hectic. Whether it’s planning ahead, getting fresh air, or indulging in your favourite little rituals, remember: looking after your wellbeing isn’t a luxury, it’s the fuel that helps you show up, do your best, and actually enjoy the journey of uni.
Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Billy Brown, bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.
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.
Rose and Ben met through mutual friends. Rose had been divorced from her husband for many years, and Ben’s wife had died a few years before. They immediately got on well and very quickly became a couple. Their respective children were delighted for their parents and were supportive of their relationship.
Both Rose and Ben were living in properties that were too large for them. They decided that it would be a good idea to pool their resources and buy a home together. They put their own homes on the market and went looking for a new home to buy together. Rose’s house sold for more than Ben’s but because of the value of the house that they purchased together, they were able to put equal dollar amounts into the new house.
When they went to see the lawyer, he suggested that they might want to think about a contracting out or “pre nup” agreement. Neither Rose nor Ben were that keen. They felt that they were putting equal amounts into the property, so if they separated it would be split 50/50, and any other money they had was before the relationship, so provided that was kept in separate bank accounts, if they separated neither would have a claim on the other’s funds.
One thing that they were concerned about was to make sure that if one of them died, the other would have the ability to continue to live in the house. They thought that they would provide each other with a right to occupy the home until the survivor of them either met someone new or had to move out as they could no longer live there or had died. They were keen for this rather than leaving the whole of the property to the survivor as they still wanted to make sure that they left their assets to their children. They thought that this may change over the years but knew that they should review their wills every three to five years or earlier if circumstances changed.
Sadly, after they had been living in their new home for only 18 months, Ben suffered an unexpected heart attack and died. Ben’s daughters, who had until he died, been supportive of his and Rose’s relationship, turned nasty, turning up at the house and demanding items that had been their father’s. Rose came home one particular day to find one of Ben’s daughters in the study, going through
various financial papers. She had let herself in with a key Ben had given her in case of emergency. Rose was furious. She decided to go and get her own legal advice on the life interest situation, as she was keen to know if she could extricate herself from it so that she would no longer feel beholden to Ben’s daughters.
Rose went to see a lawyer who had been recommended by a friend. The first thing the lawyer did was a title search – this showed that Rose and Ben had owned their home jointly. The lawyer said what this meant was that Rose had inherited the whole of the property by survivorship. The life interest provisions in Ben’s will were irrelevant as Rose now owned the whole property. Rose was shocked. The lawyer who had acted on the purchase of the property had not done the job properly. If the title had been registered correctly, then there was an option for Rose to negotiate a buy out of the life interest, so that she could pay Ben’s daughters out now on their share of the property, at a calculated discount.
However, Rose was a good person – the fact that she now owned the whole property, she knew that was not what she nor Ben had wanted to happen if one of them died. She asked the lawyer to write to Ben’s daughters, pointing out that Rose now owned the whole of the property, but that she would honour the life interest provisions in Ben’s will and offer to buy them out of their share in the property.
This situation points out the difficulties of dealing with wills in blended family situations and the necessity to get good, robust legal advice. It is also important to keep assessing your legal documents to make sure they are doing their job and to deal with changing family dynamics.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
It is recommended to review your will every five years, or whenever your circumstances change.
When you make a will you are creating a lasting legacy for your loved ones, with the opportunity to have your say.
Significant milestones such as marriage, separation, death, a change in your assets, or expanding your family can affect your assets being distributed in the way you want them to be.
Ensure your final wishes are respected and get advice that reflects your personal situation. Contact our Trust and Wealth Protection team to review your will.
By Mike Atkinson, Managing Director, Andersen
Some days you’re the pigeon, some days you’re the statue. This humorous saying (popularised by David Brent from 'The Office') captures how running a family business can feel. One day everything goes your way, and the next day you’re dealing with unexpected challenges. But when it comes to eventually stepping away from your business, you don’t want to leave it up to chance which day it will be. That’s where succession planning comes in – and why you should start thinking about it now.
Why plan your succession? Succession planning means preparing to hand over the reins of your company to someone else – whether that’s your children, employees, or an outside buyer. If you’ve poured years of hard work into building your business, you want to see it continue thriving after you step back. Without a plan, the odds aren’t in your favour: studies show most family firms fail to survive leadership transitions beyond the first generation. Lack of planning can lead to chaotic scrambles, family conflicts, or even the business collapsing when an owner retires or faces an unexpected crisis. In short, a well-thought-out succession plan is key to protecting your legacy and the livelihoods of employees and family members who depend on the business.
It’s a journey, not a one-time event. Many owners put off succession planning. It’s easy to think “I’ll deal with that in a few years,” especially if retirement feels far away or you assume a big buyer will one day swoop in with an offer. In reality, succession is a gradual process, not a single event. It can take years to groom a successor, get the business ready for sale or transition, and work out finances and roles. Starting early lets you drive the process on your own terms, rather than being forced into a rushed exit by health issues or market changes. And even if you do hope to sell the company eventually, having your house in order with a succession plan will make your business far more attractive to buyers.
What does a succession plan include? At its core, a good succession plan answers “What happens to this business when I’m not running it?” It typically involves:
• Defining your goals and timeline: Do you plan to retire at a certain age? Keep some ownership or step away completely? Identifying your objectives will guide the plan.
• Choosing a successor (or successors): Will a family member take over, or an outside manager? Perhaps you’ll sell to key employees (a management buyout) or merge with another company. Weighing these options is crucial.
• Business readiness: A frank assessment of your company’s current state. Are there gaps in leadership skills? Does the business rely too
heavily on you personally? Shoring up any weaknesses early will make for a smoother handover.
• Valuation and finances: Determining what the business is worth and how a transfer might be funded. This could involve setting a fair price for shares, planning for estate taxes, or arranging financing if, say, your children will purchase the company over time.
• Training and knowledge transfer: If your daughter, son, or protege is going to run the company, they might need mentoring or new expertise. Slowly passing on your knowledge and relationships gives the next leader confidence and credibility when the time comes.
• Contingency planning: Life is unpredictable. A good plan covers “what-ifs” – e.g. if the chosen successor decides to leave, or if you face an earlier-than-expected exit. This often means grooming more than one person or having a backup strategy.
• Family dynamics and communication: In a family firm, emotions and relationships run deep. It’s vital to communicate plans openly to avoid resentment or confusion. Many succession plans establish clear roles for family members (who will own shares vs. who will manage daily operations) and use written agreements to prevent misunderstandings.
Don’t let “shoestring syndrome” hold you back. Unfortunately, too many small and mid-sized business owners keep putting off these steps. They might assume things will “go back to normal” if the economy has been tough, or they simply hate thinking about giving up control. This “dig your toes in the sand” reluctance can be risky. Without preparation, you could end up with limited options – for example, if a would-be successor (like a son or daughter) gets frustrated at the lack of progress and leaves to pursue their own career. We’ve seen business owners who overvalue their company or avoid hard conversations, only to find no one is willing or able to take over when they’re finally ready to exit.
Time to take action – what’s your next step? Reading this, you might be thinking about your own company. Maybe you’re not planning to retire for another decade, or maybe you’d like to pull back next year. In either case, now is the time to start the conversation and sketch out a plan. Succession done right can take years, and starting early never hurts. Begin by engaging in some frank discussions with key stakeholders (family members, business partners) about the future. Talk to your accountant or a business advisor about your options – for example, Andersen’s advisors specialise in helping business owners navigate this journey. Identify potential successors and start involving them in more aspects of the business. Even small steps, like delegating more responsibilities or organising your financial records, can make a big difference down the line.
Don’t leave your business’s fate to chance. You’ve worked too hard to see things fall apart when you step aside. Start your succession plan today. Planning ahead will give you peace of mind and ensure your business – and legacy – continues to flourish for generations to come. If you need guidance on where to begin, the team at Andersen is here to help. Reach out for a friendly chat about how to protect the future of your family business – you’ll be glad you did.
470 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 09 309 7851 nz.Andersen.com
Recently, Chris Clay, a partner and director of 'We Create Futures', spoke to our Kristin staff about future planning as we start to consider Kristin's next strategic plan. He raised the point that the future only exists in our imagination and that we can only speculate about what will come, rather than plan with any certainty. While most things have a near-certain probability, such as the sun rising tomorrow, many things, such as the takeover of AI and the impact of climate change, are less clear.
We know from history that significant changes have come before and that the arrival of new technologies can disrupt the status quo with benefits for some and calamity for others. By way of example, the invention of the internet was seen by some as a passing fad and by others as a mechanism by which many of the inequities would be corrected and universal harmony would be fostered. Neither of these has transpired. So, without wanting to get myself wedged into a rabbit hole, I got to thinking about what things we know, with near-certain probability, will still be valued skills and dispositions regardless of what is in store for future generations.
AI doesn’t possess the ability to truly understand the nuances of a complex situation or to generate truly innovative and creative ideas and solutions…
While many came to mind, there are just a couple I’ll share. The first is the ability to communicate and connect purposefully with other human beings. We need to empathise, take our lived experiences, and create meaningful relationships. AI doesn’t possess the ability to truly understand the nuances of a complex situation or to generate truly innovative and creative ideas and solutions; it follows a set of rules and predictable patterns, using only what has already been developed. But genuine relationships, ones that nurture community, foster imagination, spark debate and critical thinking, and exercise ethical judgement, will never be surpassed by a bot.
The second that surfaces is the ability to genuinely value diversity and to collaborate with those who hold different world views. With all that is transpiring in the world at the moment, it is evident more than ever that the ability to see worth in difference and to accept that we might just be wrong every now and then is crucial to solving big, worthy problems by finding common ground amidst our contrasts.
So, while I feel excited about planning for our best estimation of what the future holds and ensuring our students do have the skills to be future ready, I am also feeling heartened that the art of communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and compromise are being taught and fostered daily through our programmes of learning here at Kristin. Our students are confident, wise, and preparing to take on whatever the future holds with a humancentred approach, which will never be outdated.
By Alison Dymond - Director.
Ali is an experienced
lawyer
and leads the Property and Commercial team at Schnauer and Co. Ali approaches legal issues with a pragmatic mindset, striving to secure the most suitable business-oriented resolutions for her clients.
Her passion for aiding others shines through, and collaborating with her clients to attain their objectives brings her a genuine feeling of accomplishment.
If you have browsed Auckland property listings lately, you've likely noticed a rise in townhouses for sale. And not just in fringe suburbs either – these multi-level homes are popping up everywhere from Milford to Hobsonville.
This isn’t just a trend. Townhouses are fast becoming the new norm for urban living in Auckland. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a downsizer, or an investor, it’s time to take them seriously.
Rethinking the Kiwi dream: Back in the day, the Kiwi dream meant a standalone house on a quarter-acre section. For many Aucklanders, that’s no longer realistic. But this doesn’t mean compromising on lifestyle.
Modern townhouses often feature contemporary layouts, improved energy efficiency, and access to central suburbs once considered out of reach. With lower maintenance requirements and proximity to transport, shops, and motorways, they offer a convenient, simplified lifestyle.
Even sellers are taking note. Many buyers are happy to trade a large backyard for a better location and an easier way of living.
Why townhouses are taking over: The reasons are straightforward – land is scarce, demand is high, and Auckland’s Unitary Plan encourages higher-density development. Developers can now build multiple dwellings on sites that once held a single home, and some are responding with townhouses.
Unlike apartments, townhouses often come with their own entrance, private outdoor space, and no Body Corporate fees. They strike a balance between space, affordability, and ease of upkeep. For many, especially younger buyers, townhouses offer a more accessible way onto the property ladder.
What to consider before buying: Not all townhouses are equal. Some developments focus on quality and design, others on cost-cutting. Before buying, evaluate the layout: does it suit your lifestyle? Consider natural light, privacy, and noise control. Investigate the materials used, the developer’s reputation, and whether any Residents’ Association fees apply (a common alternative to Body Corporate levies in newer builds).
Title type is another key factor. Some townhouses are freehold, others are on unit titles. This could impact resale, insurance, and your legal obligations, so getting sound legal advice is essential.
Are they a smart investment? Townhouses offer solid lifestyle and affordability benefits, but they may not match the long-term capital gains of stand-alone homes. Land typically drives value growth, and with townhouses, the land share is smaller or communal.
If you’re purchasing primarily for investment growth, a standalone property on its own title may still outperform a townhouse over time, especially in high-demand suburbs. That’s not to say townhouses can’t grow in value, but expectations should be realistic and grounded in the property's location, quality, and surrounding development.
The new normal? Townhouses aren’t just a compromise between apartments and houses – they are reshaping what "home" looks like in Auckland and offering a more attainable way to stay close to the city.
In a market where affordability, lifestyle, and practicality must align, townhouses deserve a closer look – not just as a backup plan, but as a smart, modern way of living.
Schnauer & Co, 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177 schnauer.com
Diane Foreman is the speaker at the North Harbour Club’s Business Excellence Network (BEN) Breakfast at Regatta Bar & Eatery on Tuesday 14th October.
Back Yourself, Even When Others Don’t – Diane often emphasizes the power of selfbelief—especially as a woman in male-dominated industries. She talks about tuning out doubters and trusting your instincts, even when you’re the only one in the room who sees the opportunity.
Buy, Build, Sell – with Precision – Known for scaling Emerald Foods into a global ice cream empire, Diane teaches the value of strategic acquisition and exit. Her tip: buy undervalued businesses, build them with clear focus and operational excellence, and only sell when the timing maximizes value.
Surround Yourself with People Smarter Than You – Diane’s leadership style centers around hiring exceptional people and letting them shine. She encourages leaders to drop the ego and create teams where expertise trumps hierarchy—because that’s how companies grow fast and smart.
Diane is one of New Zealand’s most successful entrepreneurs, having risen from leaving school at 15 and single motherhood to building a global business empire. She grew Trigon Packaging, founded the Emerald Group, and took New Zealand Natural ice cream international. Her accolades include EY Entrepreneur of the Year and induction into the NZ Business Hall of Fame. A mentor to women in business, she co-founded International Winning Women and authored In the Arena. In 2020, she married broadcaster Paul Henry.
This will be a very interesting breakfast.
Diane Foreman BEN Breakfast – Tuesday 14 October 2025, from 7am, at Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna Beach. This will sell-out, for tickets email info@northharbourclub.co.nz. Or visit: northharbourclub.co.nz
Are you familiar with the North Harbour Club?
You may be surprised to learn that it’s not connected to rugby, or any sport, but it has supported a lot of the greatest North Harbour based sportspeople since 1995 – Lydia Ko, Eliza McCartney, Michael Brake, Zoe Hobbs, Jacko Gill – to name a few…
The Club is made up of prominent North Harbour businesspeople who seek to give back to the community while enjoying the outstanding events and networking opportunities available through the Club.
With over 250 members currently, the Club aims to expand on this to further support the youth of the North Harbour region demonstrating excellence in the fields of Art, Innovation (Science & Technology), Music, Education, Sport, and Service to the Community and Sustainability, through the annual Youth Awards programme.
Mike Atkinson, Director at Andersen and Immediate Past President, has hugely benefitted from his involvement with the club.
“For me personally, being a member of the North Harbour Club allows me the privilege first and foremost to support the very talented youth in the North Harbour Region to achieve excellence. Its hugely rewarding, humbling and exciting to be present at the award ceremonies that the Club runs to see the quality of our future leaders, and indeed the outstanding achievements from our more experienced award winners via the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame.
“Professionally, the North Harbour Club has given me access to
the who’s who of the North Harbour region and enabled me to lift my profile with likeminded people who unashamedly support and reward excellence,” says Atkinson.
The Club provides a unique offering to its membership with no other club in the country like it.
“No other Club provides great member engagement opportunities via a raft of events, with the purpose of the Club to foster networking of its members, support, and reward excellence with youth and those who have achieved outstanding things in business and the community via the Business Hall of Fame. The Club can provide as much or as little as you want, however the more you put in, the more you will get back,” he said.
Corporate membership opportunities have benefitted many businesses throughout the North Harbour region. An array of outstanding Club events are held throughout the year with members enjoying exclusive benefits.
“For Andersen, the corporate membership has enabled us to host clients and other key contacts at quality events. Our guests always leave the events awestruck by what the North Harbour Club does. Our guests get the opportunity to hear from interesting and inspirational speakers, whilst enjoying a wonderful meal and a drink or two. Our association with the North Harbour Club is seen by our clients and our staff as an extremely positive and valuable association.”
Keen to learn more about becoming a member?
Visit the North Harbour Club website at northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz to find out more.
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
After many months on pause, the Sunnynook Community Association has relaunched – bringing together past, present, and new members to shape the future of Sunnynook and Forrest Hill.
Ideas old and new are back on the table: better lighting at Sunnynook Park, a skate park and pump track, flood-damaged land solutions, issues with waterlogged park areas, bus station accessibility and refurbishment, safer streets, and stronger neighbourhood connections. Got a vision for Sunnynook/Forrest Hill? Step up as a community champion and make it happen! Contact snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz and check our Facebook page: Sunnynook Community Association. Marathon update: We hope your walking/running/ cycling marathon is going well. It is great to see so many locals out in the park participating. It’s not too late to sign up (email: snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz).
The idea is you walk, run etc around Sunnynook Park (or your neighbourhood, retirement village, etc) throughout the month of September and see how many marathons you can do. A marathon is 42km.
A huge thank you... to Parklane Retirement Village for supporting the Shore Winter Food Drive. We really appreciate the support that you all give to this wonderful community. Thank you also to the other fabulous local residents who supported this. Neighbourhood Support New Zealand. Creating safe, resilient and connected communities. For more information and to sign up, please check out their website neighbourhoodsupport.co.nz November renovations. Reminder: The Sunnynook Community Centre is undergoing renovations from early November 2025 for several weeks. We will be open for some of our groups; others will be operating from different venues. The early learning centre will remain open during this time.
Due to these renovations, the playgroup will finish for 2025 on Wednesday, 10 September. We will restart in 2026 and advertise the date on our Facebook page.
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.
sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction
Exams can be a high-stress time for some young people, and finding a quiet, dedicated space to study is key. At Shore Junction, we understand this. That's why, during exam season, we make it our mission to ensure our upstairs area is ready and waiting for young people.
We make sure the environment is consistently quiet and free from distractions, so young people can fully immerse themselves in their work. Whether they're hitting the books, reviewing notes on a whiteboard, or collaborating with a study group, they can count on finding a calm and focused atmosphere during exam times.
We make sure the environment is consistently quiet and free from distractions, so young people can fully immerse themselves in their work.
We also know that feeling a sense of community can help during stressful times. Our staff is on hand to offer support and ensure the space remains a productive one for everyone. The upstairs area is intentionally kept available for exam prep. Young people can arrive with confidence, knowing they have a reliable spot to focus.
We're committed to giving young people the resources they need to succeed, and that starts with providing a peaceful, accessible space where they can get the job done. Young people are able to access our facilities from 10am-6pm Tuesday to Saturday during exam time, so they can pop in before or after exams to study.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
Members of the East Coast Bays RSA and local Rotarians recently honoured the passing of Ronald (Ron) Taylor, who died at the age of 103.
A World War II veteran and honorary member of Rotary Kaipātiki, Ron was widely respected for his lifetime of service – to his country, community, and family.
Born in rural South Taranaki in October 1921, Ron was the middle of five children. He completed his primary and intermediate education in country schools and later attended New Plymouth Boys’ High School as a boarder.
In 1938, he moved to Wellington to work for the National Dairy Association as a laboratory assistant in the chemical division, earning £1/10 shillings per week. More than 40 years later, he retired as the company secretary.
Ron married Lola in 1950. In 1975, they relocated from Wellington to Auckland, where Ron joined the Glenfield Rotary Club (District 9910). He served as president in 1992–93 and received a mayoral Civic Award for leading a school exchange initiative with Japan.
Ron’s early experience as a farm boy, with a driver’s licence, saw him tasked with transporting men and munitions as the New Zealanders pushed north from Taranto to Bari on the Adriatic coast.
On his 70th birthday, he was honoured as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Glenfield club, and received a sapphire pin from Rotary Kaipātiki in his 100th year. A dedicated member of the Rotary Caravan Fellowship for over 43 years, Ron continued driving his campervan well into his 90s.
But Ron’s service to his country extended far beyond Rotary. In 1941, at the age of 20, he was called up to the New Zealand armed forces. In 1943, he sailed to Egypt and then joined the 2nd New Zealand Division, part of the British Eighth Army, as they advanced through Italy after the fall of North Africa. He landed in the Allied-held port of Taranto in October 1943, alongside his younger brother.
transporting men and munitions as the New Zealanders pushed north from Taranto to Bari on the Adriatic coast. As the Americans struggled at Cassino, Ron was among those who drove overnight through the Italian alps to deliver critical reinforcements. He later recalled seeing Mt Vesuvius steaming under a star-lit sky.
He was present for the liberation of Florence, Venice, and Trieste, and witnessed the final surrender of German forces in Italy in May 1945. After a well-earned period of leave in the United Kingdom, Ron returned to Trieste and was finally demobilised in January 1946.
Ron’s early experience as a farm boy, with a driver’s licence, saw him tasked with
More than 60 years later, Ron was invited back to Trieste with fellow veterans for a civic ceremony honouring their wartime service, where they were granted the Freedom of the City. He remained the oldest member of the East Coast Bays RSA, surpassing the next by nearly a decade.
A lifelong sportsman, Ron took up golf in 1933 and was a member of the North Shore Golf Club for 40 years, playing to an eight handicap. He continued to play twilight rounds with his Rotary mates into his 90s — and often won, thanks to his steady play down the centre of the fairway. He once quipped that he wasn’t enjoying golf as much lately — because the others insisted on golf carts while he still preferred to walk.
Ron’s beloved wife Lola passed away in 2011. He died peacefully on Tuesday 29 July 2025.
Ron Taylor leaves behind three children, eight grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren — and a legacy of service, humour, and strength that will not be forgotten.
By Liz Ranger, Trust Manager, Pupuke Birdsong Project
It’s been a hectic time for planting – here are some pictures of a very recent event in Sylvan Park. Do go and have a look if you are there. And a reminder to keep a lookout for the work of the Milford Storm Recovery Project storyboards around the Milford area. Either click the QR codes on the storyboards or visit milford.thinkport.nz/get-involved/.
Please also check the link below for our upcoming events. All the rain means more clean-ups are needed, and the weeds are out there growing as I write!
School holiday events this month:
We're planning some guided walks for families over the Term 3 school holidays. They are a chance to get to know more about a local reserve: what’s growing there, what lives there, and what we can do to keep it a healthy and thriving natural environment. Check on events.humanitix.com/ host/pupuke-birdsong-project
To book any of our events scan the code, go to our website, or give us a call,
pupukebirdsong.org.nz
Facebook/Instagram: @Pupuke_Birdsong_Project office@takapunatrust.org.nz, 09 486 2098
Supported by:
Tabitha Coleman, General Manager Devonport Business Association
As the days stretch out and the air feels just a little warmer, there’s no denying that spring is on its way. And this year, Devonport village steps into the season with a spring clean.
The spring clean will take place on Saturday 6 September – a chance to refresh our shared spaces and give the village a lift ahead of the busy months to come. The Devonport Business Association has been working with partners and volunteers behind the scenes to make it happen. Over the course of one day, we’ll tackle the planter barrels, shared garden beds, and key corners of the village that could do with some extra care with weeding, replanting, mulching, and tidying – the kind of work that makes a visible difference almost immediately. We’ll share the “before and after” photos once it’s all done, and we can’t wait to show the results.
Pulling off a project like this takes more than good intentions; it takes real backing and practical help. We want to give a huge thank you to Ventia, which has come on board in the most generous way. They’re donating plants, soil, and mulch, and providing multiple teams of staff to roll up their sleeves alongside us on the day. Their support has been invaluable and will make the project not just possible, but impactful.
We also want to acknowledge Resource Recovery Devonport, which is supporting us with skip bins for the day, making sure all the old soil, broken planters, and green waste can be dealt with properly. Their backing has also been key in helping us look at practical solutions for some of the tired barrels around the village.
A big thank you as well to Lance and the team at Restoring Takarunga Hauraki, who are contributing tools, spades, and their talented crew to help power the mahi on the day. Having their expertise and energy alongside us adds even more momentum to the project.
And finally, special thanks to Jenelle Chitty, a qualified landscape designer who has generously shared her time and knowledge with us. Jenelle has guided plant choices and helped us plan layouts so that what goes in will be both beautiful and sustainable.
The spring clean is about more than just tidying up. It’s about showing pride in Devonport, creating a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike, and reminding ourselves of what can be achieved when we collaborate. The effort may be concentrated into a single Saturday, but the results will last well into the months ahead. So if you’re in the village on 6 September and notice people in high-vis with wheelbarrows and spades, you’ll know what’s going on. Give them a smile or a wave – and keep an eye out for the transformation photos we’ll share after the day. Together, with the support of our partners, we’re giving Devonport village the spring refresh it deserves.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
Members of Auckland’s I.Lead committee attended the Health Coalition Aotearoa Healthy Futures Summit at Te Māhurehure Marae in Auckland. This event was a unique opportunity to collaborate with public health leaders, policymakers, community organisers, rangatahi, and researchers to design interventions to create a healthier future for our communities.
I.Lead’s national committee chair, Amy, facilitated the youth panel at the event. It was a powerful kōrero dedicated to creating a healthier, more equitable Aotearoa.
Our I.Drive/VTNZ testing days are back in Auckland! I.Drive is partnering with VTNZ to bring their portable testing units to Takapuna (North Shore, Auckland) in November and Papatoetoe (South Auckland) in September. Our previous testing days were a huge success, helping participants to pass their learner's licence without the stress and overstimulation of taking the test in a traditional testing venue.
A successful attendee of one of our previous testing days stated, "I wouldn't do the test any other way. I think doing the test in a relaxing environment gave me the space to be around people that I know, a place that I'm familiar with – definitely reduced the nerves quite a lot. They were really accessible in terms of disability. I think this partnership is fantastic!"
In August, we hosted I.Drive workshops in North Shore, Auckland and Wellington, with a South Auckland workshop following in early September. I.Drive also continue to spread throughout the country, with workshops being hosted in Waikato, 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. We have had ten I.Drive attendees pass their driving tests so far this year! Check out our website to see when our future workshops will be happening.
I.Lead/William Pike Challenge participants went on an accessible outdoor nature walk in Henderson! It was a great bonding experience for this cohort, allowing them to get to know each other better. The next outdoor challenge with be accessible biking, facilitated by Adventure Works!
I.Lead is excited to announce its newest programme: Te Ara Tāne: The Path of Men: We’re creating a space where disabled men (18-30) can come together, be real, and have honest kōrero about the ups and downs of life – the stuff people don’t always talk about. Whether it’s about identity, relationships, mental health, or just everyday challenges, this is a space where you’ll be heard and understood. This group was designed by disabled men, for disabled men – no pressure, no judgement, just a chance to connect, listen, and be yourself. “Come along. Your story matters. Your voice belongs here.”
Our next meeting date is 23 July. Any inquiries or to learn more about Te Ara Tāne – The Path of Men, please contact Abdulla: 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 for the Hibiscus & Bays and Upper Harbour Local Boards in Albany.
Meet and hear from the candidates for the Hibiscus & Bays and Upper Harbour local boards and Albany Ward, in the Auckland Council elections 2025. Know the candidates' positions on the issues. Make well-informed decisions when voting in this year's local elections. This event is hosted and organised by ANCAD, serving communities since 1974.
Date: Thursday 18 September. Time: 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Venue: Marist North Harbour Rugby clubrooms, Albany. A light supper will be available from 6pm. RSVP on Humanitix (see image for link). For more information, contact info@ancad.org.nz.
LiiFT Aotearoa professional development and training for NFP/ community groups/individuals
Xero Day by Day: Unlock the full potential of Xero with this hands-on (online) training programme. Starting from the basics, you’ll quickly learn to navigate Xero’s dashboard, set up your organisation, and manage day-to-day finances with ease. Advance your skills with invoicing, bills, and bank feeds. Then discover the power of Xero for automation.
Emphasis is placed on practical, step-by-step exercises, realworld scenarios, and best practices for accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. By the end of this programme, you will be able to confidently set up and manage a Xero account, process and troubleshoot day-to-day transactions. Interactive 90-minute weekly sessions combining live demonstrations, guided practice, and realworld exercises, supported by many resources and a weekly “Ask Me Anything” forum. Contact simon@ancad.org.nz with your expression of interest.
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
NZG-19110726-0029-01 courtesy of
On 8 August 1912, Birkenhead Borough Council created and changed a number of street names in the Birkenhead Point, Highbury and Glenfield areas. Formerly collectively known as Main Road, Hinemoa Street, Hauraki Street and Glenfield Road were all separated out. Hinemoa Street was defined as being from Birkenhead ferry wharf to Elson's shop. George Edward Elson was variously described as a chemist, druggist and pharmacist and most likely his shop was just down from what became the Birkenhead South Post Office, just north of the corners of present-day Maritime Terrace, Bridge View Road and Hinemoa Street. Stephen Roberts had a grocery store in that area from 1904 and that's shown in photographs of the time. Hauraki Street then continued from Elson's shop to Highbury, and from 1968 Hauraki became an extension of Hinemoa Street. In 1912, Glenfield Road, (from February 1967, Birkenhead Avenue), then continued on the borough boundary at now Pupuke Road. That was the boundary with Waitemata County. In 1912, Lake Road (the Birkenhead part) became Pupuke Road.
As well as those major changes, there were also changes in what were then the side roads. Bath Street became Arawa Street in 1912, and from February 1967, Awanui Street. Northcote Terrace became Marama Street (later Terrace) and from 1968 Maritime Terrace. Valley Road retained that name in 1912, but in February 1967 became Glade Place. Le Roy Terrace was formerly Carlton Terrace until 1967 and was developed in the early 1940s for the first state houses in the borough. Northcote Road became Onewa Road in 1912, or rather the Birkenhead Borough part. Northcote Borough didn't rename its part of Northcote Road as Onewa Road until 1914, and I can't determine when Waitemata County renamed the middle part. Of course from 1959, Onewa Road
By David Verran
became a little busier with the Auckland harbour bridge.
On the west side of Hinemoa and Hauraki, Tizard's Road was renamed Akarana Road in 1912. However, this was reversed in the 1920s and a local land agent, as well as having a host of other titles and duties, Edward Fawconer Tizard and family are still remembered. They actually lived for a time in what is now Maritime Terrace, but also had land on the Point. Telephone Road (where the telephone line reached the sugar works) became Rugby Road in 1912, while that part of Palmerston Road to the north of Telephone/Rugby was renamed Tennyson Street.
That area housed a number of sugar workers, with sugar company loans, enabling them to easily walk to work. However, in 1935 Tennyson became again an extension of the existing Palmerston Road. Albert Road off Rugby became Maunganui from February 1967. Harbour View Road retained that name in 1912, but was renamed Bridge View from February 1967. Weymouth Road also retained its name in 1912, but was renamed Wanganella from February 1967. The Crescent also retained its name in 1912, but was renamed Mariposa in 1968.
In Highbury, Hall's Road was renamed Rawene Road in 1912. The Hall family lived at the bottom of that road by the sugar works. Mokoia Road was the new name for what was Robert's Road and that stretched from Highbury Corner to "Hadfield's" (from 1912 the start of Waipa Street). Stephen Roberts opened a second grocery store at what is now 243 Hinemoa Street around 1915 (the facade is still there). His private address was in what was Roberts Road on the south side, just before present-day Huka Road (Hutton Road until February 1967) and opposite present-day Birkenhead Primary School. Stephen died in 1931.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
Mairangi Bay life member
John Mills is the latest from the North Harbour centre to further offer evidence that lawn bowls is synonymous with a life of longevity.
John celebrated his 100th birthday last month, on 19 August, and to mark this notable milestone the Mairangi Bay club made him guest of honour at its 21 August triples tournament, in which a full field of 18 teams competed on the club’s artificial green.
In recent years at least two other Harbour bowlers have exceeded the century. Helensville’s John Wills, who during his long career won several Harbour titles, was aged 103 when he passed away in 2021.
Takapuna past president and life member Bob Porter was also 103 when he passed away last year.
Another Takapuna member, noted as an immaculate draw bowler and winner of a centre title, Eddie Earwaker, was 99 at the time of his death in 2017 and earlier this year Milford life member, Zelda Bridgens, died aged 98.
And John Mills is not the only Mairangi Bay member in the longevity ranks. Husband and wife Ron and Alison Rennie are also in their 90s, as is another member, Graham Ward, and as are former leading members and centre title-holders, husband and wife Ray and Raewyn Parker.
John has no doubt that his longevity, apart from having had good family genes, can be attributed to the 40-plus years he has spent on the greens and, especially, his involvement with the Mairangi club. He has described the club as his second home and its members as his second family. And he extols the virtues of bowling and the benefits it brings to not only senior citizens but also to those with disabilities. Besides being an excellent physical exercise it provides friendship and companionship.
John himself had only a limited role at his centenary tournament but in the last round managed a few ends. But up until recent times he has continued to be an active bowler and in the 202021 season, when a few months away from his 96th birthday, he partnered with Caryl, his wife of almost 60 years, to win the
Caryl, now in her late 80s and also hale and hearty, has been the family’s most accomplished bowler and has won 18 North Harbour titles, in doing so adding two bars to her gold star awarded for winning five. Such was her prowess, according to Mairangi Bay’s match committee chair Alan Daniels, that at the former women’s club there was a reluctance to enter championships because of her dominance. While John hasn’t had the same centre success as Caryl he has won his share of club titles and apart from playing has been a major contributor to the club, particularly with his greenkeeping skills. It was mainly for these, and his other volunteer work, which some years ago won him life membership.
John’s first sporting love was badminton, and with typical modesty he describes himself as a moderate player. But he must have had some ability, which apparently he passed on to his son, also John, who became a New Zealand badminton representative.
Originally from Kent in England, John (senior) came to New Zealand, marrying Caryl soon after, in 1967, having just retired as an aircrew member with the Royal Air Force. That’s another of his distinctions: he’s one of the last survivors of those who served in World War II.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
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!).
Back by no popular demand, the Mr G’s mate from the pub returns, but fear not readers, the inimitable award winning columnist will return next month.
Firstly some excellent news, and well done to our local MP Simon Watts for shepherding through Parliament an amendment to a 1923 bill which severely restricted the use of the old Takapuna Boating Club building in Bayswater, effectively stopping them from generating income from the club house. With this amendment the club can potentially lease out parts of the building for commercial use, i.e. a café, offices etc while maintaining the large hall area for club and community use. The income generated will be used to restore the sadly dilapidated but amazingly still structurally sound building to its former glory so once again it will be a terrific asset for the Takapuna Boating Club and for the entire North Shore community.
The government has copped plenty of flak lately, some welldeserved, like the butter price fiasco. We all know that export prices have always driven what we pay domestically, whether that be a lamb chop or a block of cheese.
Around our area we have numerous large plane trees, and yes, they look ok in summer but in autumn/winter the fallen leaves are everywhere; they’re large and don’t readily break down or even mulch that easily. The leaves block drains, and definitely increase the risk of flooding. I’m regularly cleaning away piles of them from the four drains I’ve adopted since the Council appears to have abdicated responsibility for drain maintenance. With so many possibilities, what type of tree do you think Council arborists have chosen to plant on some nearby berms? Yes, more plane trees. They’re not native and require major pruning every year which must cost a fortune, and the fine hair on the leaves and seeds are known to irritate the eyes and cause respiratory problems. They damage infrastructure like pavements and drains and they’re incredibly messy. So, not really a tree we need more of.
I hadn’t intended to mention national politics, but I will. The government has copped plenty of flak lately, some well-deserved, like the butter price fiasco. We all know that export prices have always driven what we pay domestically, whether that be a lamb chop or a block of cheese.
There have been successes, such as getting Robbo’s parting gift of 7% inflation back to 2.7%, the bold and long overdue education initiatives, personal income tax reductions, the slow but mostly encouraging rebuild of the health system and my personal favourite, returning the speed limit to 50kms on Seacliffe and Williamson Avenues.
This government has not been nearly courageous enough; they were voted in because people wanted change after witnessing the monumental failure of the Ardern/Hipkins social experiment for which we will continue to pay an extraordinarily high price. In cricket parlance, they have simply not put enough runs on the board and now have roughly 12 months to deliver some tangible results, not projections for 2030 or further announcements of announcements. While some aspects of the government’s performance have been disappointing, the alternative of a return of Labour with its partners Te Pati Māori and the Greens should be of real concern to everyone. Make no mistake, at this point Labour would need these two parties to form a government and that would undoubtedly be disastrous for our country.
I was dismayed to learn of Watercare’s plan to run a new water pipe along Lake Road. It is still pending final approval, but scheduled to commence early 2027. Watercare acknowledges it will cause major disruption with traffic being reduced to single lane sections for around 18 months, most likely longer. We all remember what happened when Vector recently ran new underground power cables along Lake Road. If this new proposal is implemented as presented it will mean next level traffic disruption. It is hard to understand why two utility companies couldn't have discussed their future plans beforehand and who knows, perhaps power and water could have been done at the same time? Local Board members have quizzed Watercare on whether they had considered alternative routes such as from Esmonde Road across to Francis Street, around Shoal Bay and up beside O’Neill Point Cemetery to Bayswater Avenue. Watercare said they had considered other routes, but it seems they naturally decided on the one guaranteed to cause maximum disruption as their favoured option. I have no doubt this upgrade is necessary, and I’m not a banner waving, protesting sort of chap, but if Watercare is committed to this plan, there should be some solid community pushback and they must be directed to seriously investigate any possible alternative routes away from Lake Road. We cannot have the main road into and out of Devonport essentially down to less than half capacity for what will likely be a couple of years. This not only affects workers, businesses in Devonport, school children and Navy personnel but also emergency services such as fire, ambulance and police.
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Interested in advertising in our Services on the Shore section? Contact:
Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz, 021 419 468
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz, 021 204 3395 channelmag.co.nz facebook instagram
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By co-chairs of Younite, Rachel Gu and Laura Mackenzie
Kia ora koutou kātoa.
July was a busy month for Younite! During the school holidays, the arts and culture group worked tirelessly to prepare for the annual Rangatahi Art Exhibition. It was truly an amazing event, with over 50 pieces of art from youth artists across the Shore, showcasing the incredible talents of rangatahi!
The arts and culture group spent many hours putting up artworks, decorating the room and making sure the event ran smoothly! On behalf of Younite, we would love to give a special shout-out to Lake House for providing us with the venue and a special thanks to Charlie Thomas for coming along and speaking to the youth artists! It is truly wonderful to have the support of the community and the local board!
On behalf of Younite, we would love to give a special shout-out to Lake House for providing us with the venue and a special thanks to Charlie Thomas for coming along and speaking to the youth artists!
Want to know more about uni life? Scholarships? Or do you just have burning questions about what courses to take or future careers? UniChat is perfect for you! Unichat is an opportunity to hear from alumni about their experiences, advice, and ask them any questions you have regarding uni! We have a range of speakers from universities in New Zealand and Aus to universities in the States!
This event is happening on 25 July from 6pm-8pm at Shore Junction, so sign up here: https://forms.gle/Rbjm3gfBTx7FDhYB8. We’re so excited to see you there!
If you have any questions or would like to get in touch, feel free to email us at younitechair@gmail.com. You can also find us on Instagram @younitedt
1 Soothing 3 11 1 down locked in part of cell (7)
5 Knocking heel against a collection of cheap trinkets (3-1-3)
9 Dreaded one overthrowing one such as Ivan the Terrible (5)
10 In drink, 21 overcoming resistance of jetty fluid (6,3)
11 See 3 Down
12 V&A's on my line-up for a practitioner of 3 11 (5,5)
14 Relocate note with excellent sound (7)
15/23 Writer's over tame animals, odd bits of hoeing and vacuous Kipling (7,4)
16 The slyness of spilling the salt? (7)
18 Sir Keir made a mess of being less conservative (7)
21 No creator has initially instigated an affair in space, or vice versa (3,7)
23 See 15
25 Under arch tanks unaffected by flames (9)
26/22 At first, not give an inch of wetland to writer (5,5)
27 Has Daniel's pet hippo swallowed her? (7)
28 Virginal's very big in dioceses on the Sabbath (7)
1 A clever representation or neologism? Yes, maybe (7)
2 Don't start tilting the sack (7)
3/11 One hairy assortment of dark deeds down under (4,4)
4/24 I bet Hazel misguidedly criticises vocal writer (9,4)
5 Repeated action of French philosopher's return to being absent (5)
6 Across answer grasped by buoyant Queen, in short (10)
7 Play winning card - heart I held - for grand slam (7)
8 Sheltered, conned, consumed and reduced in size (5,2)
13 Jade discussed getting a degree to go for a practitioner of 3 11 (4,6)
15 Love songs are dry and fruitless before litter is raised (9)
16 Turn sees you're announced (7)
17 Menu in Dutch he's regularly ignored for 28 chaps (7)
19 One with German took food to ape (7)
20 Places doctor ignores? (7)
22 See 26 Across
24 See 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.
of dollar value sold so far this year in 2025 has been to offshore buyers within our franchise in annual global referrals in 2024 (NZD) $275B in global sales volume in 2024 1,100 84 offices in countries & territories