Arrenway Drive, Albany, Auckland
Burns Avenue, Takapuna, Auckland
Over the past 12 months, the North Shore commercial property market has demonstrated impressive resilience, with continued demand from both owner-occupiers and investors despite tight economic conditions. Quality office and retail properties have remained highly sought after, with well-located retail and hospitality assets with strong tenant covenants continuing to attract solid enquiry. Looking ahead to 2026, we expect confidence to strengthen as interest rates stabilise, businesses plan for growth, and investors return to the market seeking secure, long-term opportunities.
I would like to sincerely thank all my clients for their ongoing support, trust, and partnership throughout the year. It has been a privilege to work alongside you, and I look forward to helping you achieve your property goals in the year ahead.
For many, the thought of having a colonoscopy or gastroscopy can be a time of anxiety and uncertainty, which is why choosing a trusted provider is essential to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
At Waitematā Endoscopy, genuine patient experience is the most meaningful feedback and powerful form of endorsement. We deeply value the trust patients and referrers place in us during these vulnerable moments, and authentic feedback reminds us of the responsibility we carry and how care is felt.
It is expressed by a few of our recent patients who have shared the following:
“From the very minute I walked in I was so impressed with how friendly and helpful all the staff were. They went above and beyond and I loved the little touches like putting on a heater for me and lots of smiles and great instructions. My doctor John Perry was very good and informative and I felt I had a very professional procedure to the highest standard. All the nurses were so friendly and helpful and I had the best experience. Thank you for your hard work and I really appreciated it all.”
“I know it sounds very strange to say you had a positive experience having a colonoscopy but that is how the staff here make you feel. From the time I walked through the door everyone was so kind and caring. From the receptionist to the nurses, and the lovely Dr Pandey, everyone was very professional and everything was well organised. Lovely touch at the end when I was having my sandwich and coffee and they brought my friend who had come to pick me up through to sit with me. Sent me home with a full report and lots of helpful literature to provide more information. They managed to make something that is inherently very stressful into a very calm and positive day. Thank you.”
“What a great experience from the team – fully prepped for my colonoscopy (yikes!) I turned up early – a day early it turns out. I was met without judgement and with incredible kindness and they fitted me in without it feeling like they were. Six-star service when it was my responsibility for mixing up the days – so grateful.”
These speak to our level of clinical excellence and affirm that our purpose, to provide exceptional endoscopy care at every opportunity, matters.
With a commitment to continuous quality improvement, we also regularly survey our patient’s experiences, and are delighted that in our most recent results, over 99% said they would recommend us to a family member or friend needing an endoscopy.
At Waitematā Endoscopy, we aim to make taking a proactive approach to your health easier. Our experienced team will help put you at ease when it comes to your endoscopy. Take a virtual tour of the patient journey and our clinic for an insight of what to expect at www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/locations
Noho ora mai (Stay well).
Sarah McNamara Quality Coordinator & Endoscopy Nurse
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: www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/referrals
WE have you covered from 'Top to Bottom'
Located on one of the North Shore’s most exclusive and tightly held streets in New Zealand, 24 Minnehaha Avenue is one of only a few true north-facing, absolute beachfront properties that exist on the Shore. This is one of the most exceptional and unique homes to come to market in the past decade.
Designed by award-winning New Zealand architects Patterson Associates, this striking home is set on a generous 1,080m² site that extends from the roadside all the way to the sands of Thorne Bay Beach offering direct access via large gates. The house is built as two separate buildings, one housing just guest accommodation which is located above the three car garage carport. This is ideal as work from home, studio or live in care.
The use of permanent, high-quality concrete materials is evident immediately as you approach via the sweeping driveway, an engineering marvel of concrete piles that float over the site. This design theme continues throughout the property. The house has an industrial feel, constructed with rendered, partially exposed concrete block and reinforced concrete. It still feels modern and timeless, despite being built in 1999. The solid concrete walls provide the perfect backdrop for an art collection — creating a gallerylike setting that allows your pieces to take centre stage.
Beautifully landscaped, with wide pavers creating a welcoming pedestrian access that takes in stunning views of Rangitoto Island as you approach the home.
Upon entering the home, a large atrium with a bridge leading to the master bedroom greets you, while the soaring voided ceiling in the living area creates a spectacular space for entertaining. This main living area is located on the ground floor and consists of three defined but inter-connected spaces. The kitchen is adjacent to the main living area and is tucked into the rear of the property. It faces out towards the beach and leads into the dining room, which also offers high vaulted ceilings and sweeping views of the outdoor living area and the ocean beyond. There is a lovely library or second lounge with built-in study space and a picture window offering water views.
Stepping outside, you’re greeted with a wide waterfrontage that ensures excellent privacy and a dramatic landscape. The north-facing orientation ensures the property enjoys incredible sun, especially in winter when it will hang over the front of the house till late in the afternoon.
The outdoor spaces are perfect for entertaining, with expansive areas located on both the eastern and western sides of the property. Direct beach access is offered via a gate on the western side, offering seclusion as the home is a few properties east of Thorne Bay Beach.
The home offers three generous bedrooms in total , each with an ensuite, with the master suite occupying the entire width of the upper level with panoramic views.
For Sale By Negotiation
Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com
Phone: 021 747 334
Over $1.6B Billion total sales
Perfectly positioned just one property back from the golden sands of Milford Beach, this stunning architectural home combines design, quality fittings and finishes, and a superb lifestyle. Designed by Gerrad Hall and completed in 2019 by builders Page and Daley, this award-winning home offers the ultimate in modern coastal luxury.
Adjacent to the reserve at the northern end of the beach, the home is oriented to capture light, privacy, and sweeping views without risk of being built out.
The exterior is finished in a striking combination of insulated block and vertical cedar weatherboard with a bespoke colourway. Inside, the interiors offer clean lines, high stud ceilings and layered textures to create a sense of sophistication and understated luxury.
Entering the home, an impressive double-height entry and open staircase lead to a beautifully designed kitchen with Miele and Liebherr appliances, bespoke cabinetry and an open-plan living area, which is the heart of the home. Heated natural stone floors run throughout the living spaces. Entertaining is effortless, with seamless indoor-outdoor flow to outdoor living spaces and a 9-metre heated saltwater pool.
The thoughtful layout includes two bedrooms and a full bathroom on the ground floor, ideal for guests or family and a separate dining area or media room. Upstairs, the master suite enjoys panoramic beach and reserve views, a luxurious ensuite, and a fully fitted walk-in wardrobe, creating a private retreat for relaxation. There is a further double bedroom and bathroom, as well as a generous second lounge with bar, gas fire and study work area, which opens to a spacious deck providing flexibility for family living and entertaining options.
There is an internal access double garage, separate laundry and gated offstreet parking perfect for storing your Sealegs! Sustainability has also been considered, with solar panels and battery storage helping to offset energy costs.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to secure one of Milford’s finest homes in this tightly held Milford beach location.
Deadline Sale Closes 4th March 2026
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.
Well, 2025, that’s a wrap! It has been a good year for the team at Channel Mag, with this being our 11th 100-page-plus issue of the magazine for the year.
I want to acknowledge our Channel Mag and wider Benefitz crew who put this magazine together every month. It’s not an easy task, but it is made easier with the passion we all have for our home patch –the North Shore. Telling positive stories about people and organisations doing wonderful things.
I also want to thank those entities who continue to support the magazine with commercial support (advertising) and content. Without that support, we couldn’t do what we do.
What we do is provide value. Every month we produce 22,000 copies of the magazine, and these all get distributed via homes, businesses and our magazine stands scattered
Publisher/Advertising
throughout the North Shore. We also have a very strong readership online via our website and social media channels.
Both Channel Mag and our business (Benefitz) continue to defy the trend of the industry sectors we operate in. 2025 has been one of our very best due largely to our dedicated people and our ongoing investment in our business, and a continued focus on playing a strong part in our community. Channel Mag is a key ingredient.
Enjoy your December/January issue of Channel Mag. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. See you in 2026! We’ll be back with our first issue in early February.
Aidan Bennett, QSM Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder and 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.
CHRISTMAS WITH SUZY
Sing some of your favourite Christmas carols with Suzy and the Auckland Philharmonia this December at the Bruce Mason Theatre. Kids can have a go at conducting and a walk through the orchestra to see the instruments up close, as well as have fun with face painting and arts and craft activities before the performance. 'Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas' with Suzy – Sunday 14 December, 2pm and 3.30pm Tickets available at aucklandphil.nz
SANTA PHOTOS FOR THE LITTLEST
Many of us have in our possession a baby photo with Santa, where we are crying! You can create a much nicer memory for your baby’s first Christmas with a gentle photo session at Glenfield Mall especially for babies under 12 months. It’s aimed to be as stress-free as possible, spots are limited. Standard Santa photos also available, Saturday 6 to Wednesday 24 December. Find out more at glenfieldmall.co.nz
THIS CHRISTMAS, YOU COULD GIVE THE GIFT OF BLOOD
Did you know that one blood donation can save up to three lives? An incredible outcome from just one act of charitable Christmas spirit. The brand-new NZ Blood donor centre at 65 Constellation Drive makes the experience easy and convenient. This location replaces the Albany mobile blood and plasma drives. See opening hours and book your donation online at nzblood.co.nz/constellation-drive or check out the other North Shore locations at nzblood.co.nz/booking
If the school camp didn’t happen this year, or your child would like more overnight camping fun, Sir Peter Blake Marine Education and Recreation Centre in Long Bay is running a three-night Albatross camp, for 11 to 13 year olds, or a Petrel camp for 7 to 10 year olds, which can be one or two nights. Includes both land and ocean-based activities, with a focus on exploring marine science and developing confidence. Check it out at enrolmy.com/merc
A Doggie Day Out is a community initiative in Northcote to celebrate our most loyal friends. Head along to play lots of games and meet other local dogs and dog owners, organised by Northcote Together – a group of Northcote locals helping to make the area more fun and connected. Greenslade Reserve, Saturday 24 January, 10am – 2pm. audo.co.nz/community/a-doggie-day-out
BRUNCH IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA
Whether you need sustenance the morning after the Christmas party or you’re in the mood for a beautifully curated brunch with friends, new eatery Gather in Takapuna is a great choice. We highly recommend the Turkish Eggs with homemade flatbreads, soft eggs, garlicky labneh and chilli butter. gathereatery.co.nz.
CELEBRATE NEW YEAR LIKE THE IRISH
Florrie McGreal’s, the iconic Irish pub on Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, is a great place to ring in the New Year if you fancy live music and some great craic (fun) and maybe a Guinness or two (or three or four!). Their famous NYE party is back this year with live music from 9.30pm featuring the Level One band. 138 Hurstmere Road. florriemcgreals.co.nz
Although they’re not allowed to stay up till midnight, it’s a great idea for kids to celebrate the end of the year, too. Long Bay Surf Club comes to the rescue with a New Year's Eve Family Day. From 2pm there’s face painting, candy floss, goody bags and outdoor games, and at 3pm a kids’ flurothemed NYE Rave. longbaysurfclub.co.nz/events/new-years-eve.
Waitematā Endoscopy (WE) has marked a significant milestone, celebrating 18 years of providing high-quality endoscopy services with an education evening for GPs and prescribers. The event also featured Colin the Colon from Bowel Cancer NZ, a giant inflatable colon, for guests to step through, representing WE’s action-oriented interpretation of “endoscopy” as “getting to the guts of it”. "With fit-for-purpose facilities and experienced specialists, we are helping solve the problem of timely access as a barrier to having a colonoscopy or gastroscopy, with our ability to offer appointments within seven days of a referral to the group in most cases. Plus, also increased wider treatment options with advanced endoscopy,” says Clinical Director Dr Ali Jafer. Southern Cross Healthcare CEO Chris White says its success reflects the organisation’s wider commitment to investing in healthcare services, with a focus on improving access for patients so they can access the care they need, when they need it.
021 937 470 libby.greenwood@bayleys.co.nz Residential
‘Properties Wanted’ Thinking of selling 2026?
I have downsizers and families looking for property in Birkenhead Point, Takapuna & Milford Contact me today For a no obligation market chat #4 Bayleys North Shore FY 2024/2025
The sun was shining on Waitematā Golf Course as players enjoyed a day of golf, camaraderie and good humour, all in support of Well Foundation, the official charity for North Shore Hospital. Hosted by North Shore Rotary Club for 24 years, the tournament was another resounding success, with 25 teams taking to the greens and experiencing the best of Rotary hospitality. Money raised will contribute to funding an ultrasound training machine (Ultrasound Mentor), to support ongoing education for senior and junior doctors and midwives at North Shore Hospital. This training tool will ultimately benefit every woman of childbearing age in our region, approximately 150,000, ensuring they can access the best care when they need it most. A special thank you goes to North Shore Taxis, returning once again as principal sponsor. Gratitude also goes to the generous North Shore businesses that provided sponsorship and to North Shore Rotary for organising yet another fantastic event.
Auckland Breast Centre centre dedicated to providing personalised care, advanced breast imaging and diagnostics along with specialised surgical solutions where required.
We are excited to have opened a second North Shore clinic at 50 Greville Rd, Pinehill to enable us to increase appointment availability.
This brand new facility is co-located with Canopy Imaging and Shorecare Urgent Care, and offers the same state-of-the-art care and commitment patients will have experienced at our Shakespeare Rd clinic.
Auckland Breast Centre’s advanced tomosynthesis technology offers a clearer, more detailed 3D view of the breast, helping detect breast cancer earlier and with fewer false alarms.
Whether you’re a new patient due for a routine mammogram, or simply want peace of mind, the wonderful Auckland Breast Centre team is here to support your breast health journey. For patients over 40, no referral is needed to book a mammogram.
Phone 09 488 9179 | Email abc@aucklandbreastcentre.co.nz
www.aucklandbreastcentre.co.nz
Rangitoto College held its seventh Annual Golf Day at Pupuke Golf Club on 21 November, and it was a sold-out success! A full field of 36 teams (144 golfers) joined us, supported by our incredible community sponsors. Together, we raised an amazing $26,718! These funds will assist students facing financial challenges and enhance resources for our technology department – helping us bridge essential gaps for students and staff. A huge thank you to our food and beverage partners, especially The Merchant Pub Co, Pita Pit, and Gilmours North Shore, for keeping everyone refreshed. We’re deeply grateful to our sponsors, alumni, and parents – your generosity made this day unforgettable!
The 2025 Westlake Girls Nine-hole Golf Day was a hole-in-one success! On Friday 7 November, Pupuke Golf Club came alive as more than 20 enthusiastic teams hit the greens for an unforgettable day of golf, fun, and fundraising for our Empowerment Fund. Playing in teams of four, participants tackled the Ambrose format across the front or back nine, competing for fantastic prizes including Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive, Best Dressed, and of course, Winning Team. The incredible Deb Cachopa returned as both MC and player, keeping the energy high throughout the day. Our generous sponsors elevated the experience with activations, delicious food, live music, and even a luxury car experience featured in the silent auction. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and supported this amazing cause – you made the day truly special!
Congratulations to our winners: Front Nine: Team Tuckr, Back Nine: Dynasty Sport, Best Dressed: The Birdies.
Comprehensive General Dentistry
Invisalign clear plastic aligners
Digital Dentistry ( 3 Shape Trios & CBCT scanning)
Teeth Whitening
Cone Bean CT guided surgical implant placement
Dentures
Cosmetic Dentistry
Emergency Dental Care
Free WINZ quotes
Free Teen dentistry (13-18 year olds)
Gulf Rise is proud to unveil its final release of our stunning apartments. Thoughtfully designed and perfectly positioned on the beautiful Hibiscus Coast, these new homes offer the ultimate in North Shore retirement living.
This is your last chance to secure a brand-new apartment—don’t miss out.
Call Adelina on 09 892 6902 adelinad@metlifecare.co.nz 89 Symes Drive, Red Beach gulfrise.co.nz
Apartments
behalf of the residents.
* Available for three-bedroom apartments only.
Apartment features
Warm timber flooring throughout living areas
Quality kitchens fitted with whitewashed oak cabinetry
Private garden patios or balconies with stunning views
Some apartments with scullery, walk-in wardrobe, 2 bathrooms*
Final release — new apartments selling now
Choose from a limited selection of newly released one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, each with premium finishes and the option of a private garden patio or upper-level balcony.
Apartments from $690,000^
Held at Operetu Fort Takapuna in November, this beloved exhibition is the biggest fundraising event for Women's Refuge NZ. It is the largest outdoor sculpture event in the county, attracting over 20,000 visitors – one of the biggest turnouts in the exhibition’s 29-year history. Friends of NZ Women’s Refuges Trust chair, Rachel Brebner, said, "The donation will support Women’s Refuge NZ's programmes, including the all-important counselling service and the Sievwright Fund." Women’s Refuge NZ CEO Naomi Ogg thanked the event sponsors, patrons, artists, trustees, small management team, 300+ volunteers, and everyone who came to the event. Channel Mag and Benefitz have been honoured to support NZ Sculpture OnShore once again. We look forward to the next NZSOS in 2027!
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
Tēnā koutou, and welcome to December! We are excited to announce our upcoming DEPOT Day Out on Saturday 6 December - more info below! Also, the DEPOT Shop and Ceramics Studio will be open throughout the holiday season, so come and see us at 3 Vic Road for beautiful handmade gifts or make your own personalised ceramics!
DEPOT Day Out
Join us across our spaces to celebrate creativity at Christmas time. We have lots of fun and exciting things on offer, including resident artists at 3 Vic Rd hosting open studios and a mini Makers Market, plus ceramic Christmas tree decoration painting in our ceramics studio, followed by a staff exhibition opening at Clarence St, and to end the night, a live gig and EP release with folk band hoop, starting at 7pm. We’re looking forward to sharing the Christmas cheer, so save the date and we look forward to seeing you on the day! Visit depot.org.nz/depot-whats-on for full info and to book your spot in a ceramic painting session.
DEPOT 3 Vic Road
Anna Victoria’s 'Time Well Spent' continues until 14 December. Spotlighting local architecture and community spaces, this exhibition invites us to reflect on all the memories and stories these places hold.
Our December 'Maker of the Month' is Poppy + Sage. Anieszka Banks is an illustrator and a furniture designer, making handmade beeswax candles, including her adorable stacking Christmas trees.
DEPOT Artspace
Sarah Cowie’s 'The Moon Looked at Me Funny' continues until 19 December. In this exhibition, Sarah uses puppetry and fabric sculpture with digital photography and videography to activate puppet creatures as they inhabit lush fabric worlds.
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!
December at The PumpHouse always feels like stepping into a sun-soaked storybook! One where cicadas hum, pōhutukawa trees frame Pupukemoana with grace, and every corner of Killarney Park buzzes with Kirihimete magic. This month, we’re making the most of all three of our performance spaces, filling each one with its own kind of festive sparkle.
This Christmas, our lakeside home transforms into seasonal mischief, and it all begins on 6 December, when a tiny hero with an even tinier wingspan starts her mission. If you wander through the courtyard in December, you might just hear the flutter of a certain determined pīwakawaka. From 6–23 December, 'Piri the Pīwakawaka Saves Christmas' will be lighting up our stage in a joyous Kiwi adventure filled with music, sparkle, and giggles. This show will have the entire whānau in full festive spirit!
Just when the mid-month sun reaches its golden best, the outdoor Amphitheatre comes alive on 14 December with our annual beloved Christmas Carols! This year, not only does the classic 6pm session return, but a brand-new twilight gathering joins the celebration at 8:30pm.
And as the month deepens, it’s the perfect timing for a visit from three rather famous ghosts. In the spooky atmosphere of our Coal Bunker Studio, an intimate telling of 'A Christmas Carol' will take place from 18–21 December! No big set, no flashy tricks, just masterful actors and Charles Dickens’ timeless reminder of generosity and heart.
We’re welcoming 2026 in true theatre style: with Shakespeare! From 5-9 January, our popular Shakespeare in a Week holiday programme gives young people aged 12–18 the chance to experience the bard’s world and create something extraordinary.
Then the celebrations continue as we mark 30 years of Shoreside Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park, Auckland’s only outdoor Shakespeare experience. As the sun dips behind Lake Pupuke, you’ll be treated to powerful performances from a stellar local cast. Whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare lover or brand new to his stories, it’s a magical night under the stars. Plus, with free entry for children 12 and under, it’s the perfect summer night out for families! This season features two of the bard’s best: 'Much Ado About Nothing' and 'Romeo and Juliet'.
The PumpHouse is the place to be! Where Christmas spirit meets summer warmth, theatre magic meets community joy, and stories take flight like a certain fearless little pīwakawaka. Our office and box office will be closed from 24 December and reopen on 5 January, but you can still book tickets online anytime at pumphouse.co.nz.
See you at the theatre soon! Mauri ora,
James Bell
This contemporary coastal residence of solid masonry construction captures all-day sun and breathtaking sea views, offering effortless seaside living. Light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas flow to the lap pool and terrace, with remote louvres and blinds providing easy comfort. Designed for entertaining and everyday living, it enjoys views to Rangitoto. Featuring three bedrooms, three ensuites and a guest WC, the master includes a tiled ensuite, office area, sea views and walk-in wardrobe. Additional features include a lift, double internal-access garaging and off-street parking. Located in one of the North Shore’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, close to beaches, cafés and shops. A rare opportunity in Mairangi Bay.
Our roll over swimming pool safety cover offers an impeccable barrier that effectively prevents unauthorized access to your pool, made with corrosion-resistant materials.
For new builds requiring wet pit area.
Comes with stainless steel shaft pulse activating remote side plates supplied for fibre glass pools.
Premium Materials
High-grade PVC or Polycarbonate materials with unique joint groove mechanism for secure interlocking.
Heat Retention
Efficient heat retention system with robust end caps for continuous connection and protection.
Beams
Our beams are provided on request for decking and pavers to avoid brackets.
Above-ground automatic slatted cover combining robustness and compactness with a wide choice of terminal colours.
Above-ground cover roll easy 2 combine strength and discretion to secure existing or new build pools. Available in electric, solar or manual versions.
Installation Features
Quick and easy installation
Smaller footprint
Adjustable feet
Mast supported by bearings.
Customizable Options
Choose from a wide range of terminal colours to match your pools aesthetic while enjoying robust and compact design.
In pool
For pools that cannot have a wet pit area or existing pools. Come complete with beams & all stainless steel panels.
Temperature Control
Maintains consistent pool temperatures and minimizes evaporation, effectively extending your swimming season. Protection
Preserves your pool from dirt, dust, and leaves while significantly decreasing pool heating expenses.
Our swimming pool safety covers have the capacity to support the weight of an average-sized adult, offering complete assurance that your pool remains secure at all times. Coverstar
Fabric
Available in 11 standard colours, the premium Ultraguard lll fabric has an advanced vinyl formulation for maximum chemical and UV protection and is backed by a seven year limited warranty.
Heat-Sealed Webbing
15 times stronger than sewn cover webbings, heat-sealing eliminates corner tearing and makes detachable ropes possible.
Ropes
PowerFlex ropes act like a shock absorber and self-adjust during operation for a more reliable performance. They are the only ropes that come with a two-year no-break guarantee.
Two Inch Stainless Steel Pulleys Pulley size determines rope life. Two inch double-row, sealed, stainless steel ball bearing pulleys provide five times the load bearing capacity of the commonly used pulleys and the result is uncommonly long rope life.
The mechanical torque limiter controls the pressure that can be placed on the system, protecting it from costly damage.
competitive systems.
Perfect for both construction and renovation projects, available in solar or electric versions. The electric version features exclusive bollard lighting to enhance your pool and garden.
Design Features
Modern and innovative design
Slim bollards for elegance and discretion
Optional Bluetooth® speaker
DEL lighting for bollard enhancement
Customization
Selected colors for garden integration
Available in electric and solar versions
Perfect for new builds or renovations
are completely
and submersible, allowing for continued safe use regardless of
or
are also available.
A choice of 3 end-stand colours for a perfect integration in your garden.
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.
Open 7 days, from 10am - late. 0275 144 924 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
Strand Wine Bar
4 The Strand. 09 485 3888. strandwinebar.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
Gather Eatery 09 212 4466. gathereatery.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
Good Town Burgers
89 Kitchener Rd. 09 485 3877. goodtownburgershop.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
Milford Motel
1A Shakespeare Rd. 09 486 0314. milfordmotel.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
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
A locally owned and operated bar upstairs in the iconic building at Hauraki Corner with the best view in the neighbourhood.
Enjoy an excellent selection of beer, wine and cocktails with delicious shared food. Family friendly with regular events including Tuesday Quiz Nights, Wednesday Kids Specials, Thursday Live Music and Happy Hour weekdays until 5pm.
335 Lake Road, Hauraki Corner hello@haurakisocialclub.co.nz
Open Tue-Sun from 3pm @haurakisocialclub on socials
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
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
Gather is a new eatery that celebrates simplicity done well: seasonal ingredients, authentic flavours, and meals to share, savour and remember. Open for breakfast and lunch, Gather offers a warm, comfortable setting where everyone is welcome, whether solo, meeting friends, or gathering with family. Expect dishes with a fresh twist, served in a relaxed, elegant space designed to foster conversation and connection. Food that’s good for the soul, in a space that feels like your own. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat/Sun 8am-3pm. 09 212 4466 gathereatery.co.nz bookings@gathereatery.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
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
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
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 60 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
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!
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
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
At Street Organics, it’s all about good food, great coffee and even better people. Our crew brings the warmth, our kitchen brings the flavour, and together we serve up wholesome meals, tasty treats and good vibes. Come by for some nourishment and smiles!
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
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
Fantastic food served in a charming, relaxed Italian atmosphere and suitable for every occasion. All our food is made using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, using traditional recipes with a modern spin. We are passionate about the history and legacy of Italian food, and proud to bring you an authentic Italian and Mediterranean dining experience in Takapuna. Fully licensed, with a great selection of wines and other beverages to choose from, our friendly team will do everything to make your dining experience as enjoyable as possible.
34 Anzac Street, Takapuna 09 488 0179, alforno.co.nz facebook instagram @alfornonz alfornorestaurant@outlook.com
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
NEW OPENING! Strand Wine Bar is Takapuna’s fresh new local - a relaxed, locally owned spot to sip great wine, share delicious plates, and browse a great selection of bottles to take home. With a sunny outdoor area, a stellar drinks list and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind day or night.
Open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays. Strand Wine Bar
4 The Strand, Takapuna 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz instagram @strandwinebar
Pizza Contemporanea & Casa Pasta - born in Naples, raised in NZ. Awardwinning pizzaiolo Enis Baçova brings Pizza Contemporanea to life at Dante’s Takapuna: slow-fermented dough, airy crusts, and Neapolitan soul. Signature pizzas and daily house-made pasta meet fine Italian wines. Ranked Top 10 AsiaPacific, Top 50 worldwide (50 Top Pizza), Silver Winner Caputo Cup 2024 Naples. "We don't serve food – we serve stories, baked in fire."
Mon 5–9pm, Wed–Sun 12–3, 5–9pm 40 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna, 09 486 3668, dantes.co.nz facebook instagram @DantesNZ and @enisbacova
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
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
Just minutes from Auckland’s stunning Long Bay Beach, Long Bay Surf Club is the place to be this summer. Drop in for long, lazy lunches, sunset sessions with friends or a casual drink by the beach. Join us for Sundowner Sessions from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays and enjoy tap beers, house wines and club cocktails at unbeatable prices. With all-day dining, refreshing summer drinks, and the doors open 7 days a week, there’s no better place to settle in this summer.
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
This time of year in the North Shore feels a little special. Long, languid afternoons that turn into beautiful warm nights, time for yourself, your friends, your family.
It’s the perfect time for post work treats and a little fun before calling it a night. We get that sweet long summer, December to April, so let’s make the most of it!
Ice cream and summer evening walks on the beach – try and name a better combo. Duck Island Takapuna delivers in spades (scoops?), with top notch cones, old-school ice cream sandwiches and milkshakes. Going gluten free? Ditched the dairy? Duck Island has you covered with deliciously clever vegan and allergy friendly options.
Get the kids out of the house and hit the epic playground at Takapuna Beach Reserve once the heat of the day has passed. It’s always been great, but if you haven’t been here in the last few months you’ll need to check out the new additions like the wheelchair accessible swing, bouncy car and seesaw. Very cool. And maybe if the kids are good, round out the evening with a cheeky fish ‘n’ chips on the beach.
Takapuna Beach is arguably our biggest drawcard, and there’s really nothing quite like sitting down to a meal or some snacks and a refreshing beverage with friends or family, overlooking the sand and sea. There are three fantastic establishments – Regatta Bar, Tokyo Bay, and Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina – sitting right on The Strand, looking out past the pōhutukawa to the beach, Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf. And then of course there’s the fave local casual coffee, food and gelato spot, Takapuna Beach Café
Sun? Sand? Seriously good ice cream? Check, check, check. Nothing beats catching the last rays of the day with a creamy Mövenpick in hand. Soak up the rays and enjoy the delightful crunch of the classic Mövenpick freshly baked waffle cone.
Refresh yourself with a drink, nibbles some live sport on the big screen, or some old school arcade games, pool and fooseball at Cousin Scott’s. Chat the night away and watch as the afternoon heat gives way to a delightful balmy evening.
Are you a serial overloader? Or a tactful taste maker? Making your own KiwiYo dessert is the perfect indulgence for a long summer evening. Start with a base of yoghurt, then carefully (or carelessly, we’re not the boss of you) add the fruits, lollies, sauces and sprinkles of your choice.
Yeah, sometimes the heat is all a bit too much. A nice, dark, cool cinema is the perfect escape. With a broad mix of blockbuster hits and indie darlings, Takapuna Beachside Cinemas is the place to be. And when you bowl out into a lovely warm evening, you might just feel like a little drink…
In our books, summer time is mojito time. But you might be more of a piña colada person, or perhaps a rum old fashioned in the sea breeze is just what you need. We recommend starting at The Strand and wandering Hurstmere Road to pick out the vibe that suits you. Order your cocktail of choice at perennial fave Regatta Bar & Eatery and soak up the lovely ocean views. Hops & Claret does a coconut margarita that will have you feeling positively tropical.
New kids on the block, and the recently reigning Taste of Takapuna People’s Choice Award winner for Best Drinks, Takapuna Surf Club does an tantalising Spicy Peach Margarita with green-chilli infused tequila that is sure to knock those jandals off your feet!
Feeling more like a Sauv? Taylors on Hurstmere has an impressive selection to satisfy any wine aficionado, and Takapuna Bar is rocking a classic range of Kiwi wines and beers.
For more amazing places to eat, drink and explore in Takapuna these long summer nights, head to our website: ilovetakapuna.co.nz and check out our full business directory!
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
Take your Christmas wrapping and decorating to the next level. We have an inspiring range of wrapping paper, ribbons, gift tags, cards, napkins, decorations and more in our pop up shop, now open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, right up until the 23rd of December. 235 Archers Rd, Wairau Valley 09 479 3070 ribbonandblues.co.nz facebook instagram pinterest
Give the gift of bubbles this festive season with this elegant Taittinger Champagne Gift Pack. Each set includes a bottle of beautiful Taittinger Champagne paired with two stylish flutes — all presented in a premium gift box ready for under the tree. A classy, effortless present for colleagues, friends, family… or anyone who deserves something a little special. Strand Wine Bar, open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays.
4 The Strand, Takapuna, 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz
Cubic Zirconia Heart Jewellery Set
A timeless sterling silver set featuring a sparkling heart pendant and matching stud earrings. Elegant, refined, and the perfect Christmas gift.
Find it at Michael Hill, Glenfield Mall. 09 442 1026
Festive seasons greetings and happy summer holidays from all at Florienne.
60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
Goodbye bulk. Hello space.The Fox and Leo leather case has been designed to fit prescription glasses and sunglasses in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Big and small. So you can use one case to interchange between your glasses and sunnies. The case is slim. Slim when you use it and slim when you don't. Freeing up your head space trying to figure out how the fox you're going carry all the things you need on the go.
30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
Celebrate the season in style with Moët & Chandon and Mumm Champagne gift boxes – the perfect touch of luxury for festive gatherings and summer celebrations. Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut Gift Box 750ml - $65.99 Classic Champagne with notes of apple, citrus, and a toasty finish. Ideal for celebrations. Mumm Grand Cordon Gift Box 750ml - $54.99
A bold, elegant Champagne featuring vibrant fruit and fresh citrus notes. Perfect for every occasion.
182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770 takapuna@liquorland.co.nz liquorland.co.nz
BEGGS XL Plus
Enjoy summer in style and the right fit from Beggs XL Plus. See our latest collections, designed exclusively for men XL to 8XL. Style without limits. Visit our store or shop online.
121 Wairau Road, North Shore 09 377 4190, beggs.co.nz Check website for holiday hours
Our December Maker of the Month is Poppy + Sage. Anieszka Banks is an illustrator making handmade beeswax candles, including these adorable stacking Christmas trees.
3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz depot.org.nz
10am-4pm, Tues-Sun
Your festive summer wardrobe awaits. This holiday season, visit Art in My Wardrobe to explore breezy blues, relaxed stripes, and nature-inspired prints. Easy to wear and beautifully crafted, they’re perfect for Christmas catch-ups, sunny afternoons, and every festive moment in between.
30 Victoria Road, Devonport 022 355 3435 artinmywardrobe.co.nz
Perfect Christmas gifts - sheepskin footwear, possum merino, rugs and more!
34 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 486 2679
thesheepskinfactory.co.nz
9-5pm Mon - Sat, 10-5pm Sundays
We’re here to stir things up. Step into our fresh new look online and explore a curated collection of kitchen, cookware and travel essentials, including the stunning MUD Australia porcelain, perfect for creating a Christmas table that wows. Think bold design, timeless style, and gifts that impress. homeessentials.co.nz
Berlin shirts - perfect for the holiday season, and so many prints to choose from! Shop the range now at Yarntons.
18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011
69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 6639 facebook instagram @yarntons yarntons.co.nz
Rose & Hibiscus Gin. Inspired by India and crafted on the North Shore, this bright aromatic gin blends rose petals and hibiscus with smooth citrus notes. Beautiful with tonic or soda, it's a vibrant sip for any summer celebration. Find Moksha at select local stockists or order online at mokshadrinks.com to receive a complimentary gift box for Christmas gifting. Visit mokshadrinks.com and follow Moksha on Insta @mokshadrinks
Discover relaxed coastal style in beautiful blue hues designed for easy and versatile styling. Our Tidal Duvet Cover Set is a fresh beachy design in a two tone stripe perfect for every home and holiday home. 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
Perfect gifts for family and friends this Christmas. Check out our other amazing photo gift ideas at: shorephotogifts.co.nz
Make this stunning rafia bag by Parisian textile artist, Sophie Digard, your must-have fashion accessory of the season. Beautifully designed, utterly unique pieces that are literally wearable works of art. Find a gorgeous collection at Cosi Fan Tutte. 73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
We love highlighting good news for the North Shore, and the government's announcement in late November that they will be investing in the Devonport Naval Base is great news for the Shore and Devonport.
This announcement comes three years after the government confirmed the home of the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) would remain in Devonport. An initial investment of $25 million has been announced by the government for design and planning on the first tranche of works.
The $25 million will be used for planning and design on specific and immediate infrastructure challenges on the Base. These include training facilities at Narrow Neck, a replacement Sea Safety Training complex, transitional office space, and replacement dry dock gates for which additional budget will be provided over the next 3-4 years based on individual business cases being developed.
The announcement was made by Associate Defence Minister, Chris Penk, who said the planned long-term development would enable capability, provide RNZN personnel the facilities they need to train, live and operate, and strengthen our national security.
Local MP and cabinet minister Simon Watts was also on hand to support this boost for his home patch.
“The Devonport Naval Base is a cornerstone of our nation’s security and a proud part of our North Shore community,” said Simon Watts. “For more than a century, it has anchored New Zealand’s naval capability, but just as importantly, it has anchored families, careers, and community life right here on the Shore.
“The men and women who serve at Devonport, along with the civilian staff who support them, make an extraordinary contribution. They work hard, often quietly and without fanfare, to keep New Zealand safe. Many of them live locally, raise their families here, and volunteer in
our schools, clubs, and community organisations. They are not just part of our defence force, they are part of our neighbourhood.
“As the local MP, I’ve been clear from day one that supporting the base means supporting its people. That’s why I’ve strongly advocated for increased investment, particularly in naval housing and infrastructure, to ensure personnel and their families have the standard of living they deserve.
“I’m pleased to see real progress being made. This investment is not only good for the Navy, it’s good for the North Shore. It strengthens our national capability, boosts local jobs, and reinforces the long-term future of the base in our community.
"To everyone who serves, works, or lives in connection with Devonport Naval Base, thank you. Your contribution matters, and you have my continued commitment and support.”
Deputy Chief of Navy, Commodore Karl Woodhead, welcomed the announcement as an indication of the government’s commitment to address sea water rise and the Base’s ageing infrastructure – much of which was built in the 1940s.
“But it’s also an acknowledgement of how critical the Devonport Naval Base is to New Zealand’s national security,” he said.
“With the funding now available to immediately begin planning and design work on the first stage of infrastructure improvement, this is a really tangible first step in what will be a complete modernisation of the Base.”
The final cost to transform Devonport into a fit-for-purpose, operational naval facility is estimated at $4 billion and scheduled to take 35 years to complete.
Great news for the North Shore!
Our round-up of posts from local Devonport spots on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Jake from @fireflylightdesign
Firefly Light & Design is a family business established in 2006, specialising in high-quality lighting. It’s now owned by lighting designer, Jake Henderson, who has been part of the team since inception and delights in all things ‘lighting’. Jake draws on his qualifications in both spatial design and lighting engineering to offer expert advice on lighting and interiors. He talks about his inspiration on Instagram and about the business in general.
Channel Mag: Tell me a little bit about Firefly. What’s the origin story?
Jake Henderson: Firefly started out specialising in European lighting, but we have evolved over time, adding an extensive selection of New Zealand lighting as well as furniture, textiles and wallpaper to supply a broader range of design-related pieces.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for you in your work? Who do you recommend following and why?
We use Instagram to promote recent lighting jobs and new products, and to keep tabs on what is happening with our suppliers (such as @ davidtrubridge, @makerdesignstudio, @switchlightingnz). It’s also a great way to see what some of the local interior designers we work with are doing (@chromainteriorsnz, @kirsten_ford_design, @inherentdesign). Facebook also comes in handy by allowing people to get a virtual view of our showroom. Our time-lapse ‘assembly’ videos, showing different lights being put together, are very popular.
Which other local businesses do social media well?
I really enjoy @dezeen, which is absolutely loaded with inspiring content, and locally we get great support on Instagram from @devonportvillage, which does a fantastic job showcasing what is going on across Devonport.
They’re a Devo classic and this festive season’s offerings are just as good as we’ve come to expect. The team has recently opened a store in Commercial Bay, a short ferry ride from Devonport. @devonportchocolates
What’s happening at Firefly that you want locals to know about?
The big news from Firefly is that we’re relocating. We’ll be leaving our cherished home in Devonport in mid-December and opening a new showroom space early next year, but fear not… fireflynz.com will remain open, and Jake is available for lighting design consultations in the meantime.
22 Wynyard Street, Devonport • 09 446 0934 fireflynz.com • instagram.com/fireflylightdesign
Aside from the impressive collection of local artists, Flagstaff Gallery has an array of art prints perfect for gifting this festive season and beyond. @Flagstaffgallery
We love these beautiful ceramic flowers made locally by Cheltenham Beach Ceramics. Find these and many more New Zealand-made items at their Devonport store. @Mixtnz
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Summer is the perfect time for fresh starts, whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating for work. If you’re planning a move across the North Shore, Auckland, or anywhere in New Zealand, Pronto Movers is the trusted name to make it happen smoothly and without the stress.
With over 20,000 successful moves, a fleet of seven modern trucks, and 490+ five-star Google reviews, Pronto Movers has earned a reputation for professionalism, reliability and care. Founded seven years ago, this local company has become the go-to choice for North Shore residents and businesses looking for impeccable service.
Why choose Pronto Movers?
Pronto Movers offers a full suite of services designed to take the hassle out of moving:
• Local and nationwide relocations,
• Packing and storage solutions,
• Urgent deliveries,
• Single-item moves to full household or business relocations. Every job is handled with precision and respect – your belongings are treated as if they were their own. Their team is trained, friendly and efficient, ensuring your move is completed on time and without stress.
What sets them apart
• Punctuality and transparency: They show up when they say they will – no delays, no excuses. Plus, you’ll get clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees.
• Specialist care: From antiques and artwork to electronics and heirlooms, Pronto Movers offers custom crating for fragile and high-value items.
• Fully accredited: WINZ (MSD) approved, GST registered, and fully insured for public liability and carriers’ coverage.
for
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country this summer and into 2026, Pronto Movers is ready to help. For a free quote in under 20 minutes, visit prontomovers.co.nz or contact Antonio directly on 022 024 6753 or moving@prontomovers.co.nz.
Pronto Movers 022 024 6753 moving@prontomovers.co.nz prontomovers.co.nz
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
This year has once again highlighted the remarkable impact our community has in enabling advancements for our local hospital. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, 47 important initiatives have been enabled, each one helping improve patient care, comfort, and the overall hospital experience. Together, we’re making a meaningful difference for everyone, from newborns to older adults.
Community generosity has helped transform hospital spaces into environments that promote healing and calm. The peaceful Healing Garden now offers families a quiet place to pause and find comfort during stressful moments.
Meanwhile, the new children’s therapy gym and outdoor playground bring joy and motivation to young patients undergoing physiotherapy after injury or serious illness.
Donor support has also funded innovative clinical equipment, giving healthcare teams the tools they need to provide exceptional care. Upgraded transport ventilators now support paediatric transfers between hospitals, while the small but effective 'Buzzy Bee' device is easing needle anxiety for young patients in the Emergency Department. Each item, big or small, helps the thousands of people who walk through the door of our local hospital each day.
Beyond equipment, your donations support advanced training for doctors, nurses and allied health staff, helping them continually refine their skills and stay up to date with best practices. And during challenging moments, thoughtful items such as sleep packs, toiletries, clothing, and other essentials remind patients that they are supported and cared for.
None of this would be possible without our generous community of donors, individuals, families, businesses, and local groups whose generosity drives meaningful change.
Thank you for your unwavering support of your local hospital charity this past year. As we look ahead, we invite you to continue this journey with us so we can do even more to strengthen and advance healthcare for everyone. The Well Foundation team sends its warmest wishes for a wonderful Christmas and New Year with family and friends. Stay safe and enjoy the summer, and we look forward to connecting with you again in 2026!
Donate here today - wellfoundation.org.nz Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals 09 447 0138 info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna have a "No Limits" approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems. Now you have a better alternative to NZ Post to get your Christmas sending sorted – stress free. “It’s a busy and stressful time of the year for many so we make it quick and easy to send your special items,” says Jeremy.
Pack & Send Takapuna has a wide range of courier services for the seasonal period. Pack & Send is a better alternative to the post shop with competitive courier rates. Enjoy the convenience of getting a park right outside, and no queuing with others paying bills. Deal with experts who specialise in packing and freight solutions.
Whether you have one small gift or a mountain of goodies for Santa’s sleigh, Pack & Send has a service that will fit your needs. From low-cost traceable courier to precision, sensitive freight services. Around New Zealand or the world they have a service for your needs.
Unfortunately, the elves in the shopping malls do not wrap your gifts to stand up to the rigors of freight. Pack & Send can safely pack your gifts into one of their super-strong cartons with bubble-wrap for maximum protection while they are travelling to their final destination. “We also sell packing materials if you choose to pack it yourself to take full advantage of our Christmas pricing,” says Jane.
Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one stop shop" for all your packaging, courier and freight solutions. Pack & Send also has an online self-service solution for pre-packed items weighing less than 30kg with a value under $1000 that doesn't need the full personalised service you would receive in-store. This can be used for sending packages internationally as well as around New Zealand. This is a DIY courier service option, where you manage the process in your own home or office – rather than have it done for you. It’s as simple as one-two-three. Visit the website packsend.co.nz and start with a quote.
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.
486 3355
We all want to have an unforgettable Shore summer this year – and to help make that happen, there are myriad events and activities taking place! From Christmas and New Year through to the end of January, we’re all hoping for long, perfectly sunny days to enjoy them. Whether you’re planning on relaxing on the beach or building up a sweat taking part in a sports event, summer is the best time of year to make memories outdoors.
The annual Christmas parade or carols in your local area delight the kids and are a great way to see the people and groups who play an active part in our communities.
• Birkenhead Village Santa Parade and Christmas Market, Sunday 14 December from 11am. villagesantaparade.nz
• Christmas Carols in the Amphitheatre at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna, Sunday 14 December; 6pm and a twilight session at 8.30pm. Tickets available from pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on
• Carols in the Park at Albany Lakes Civic Park, Sunday 14 December, 6-8pm. Free
By Paula Arblaster
admission. carolsinthepark.nz
• The Great Christmas Concert at Lake House Arts, Takapuna, Saturday 13 December, 6pm. Take a picnic to the gardens of Lake House Arts to enjoy a Kiwi Christmas with the North Shore Brass Academy. Food stalls and a cash bar on site from 5pm. Entry by koha. lakehousearts.org.nz/event/thegreat-christmas-concert-2025
SHOP THE SHORE AT OUTDOOR MARKETS
Sun on your shoulders, the scent of doughnuts and popcorn in the air, the happy buzz of children seeking a sweet treat, a trove of bright delights on sale around you... Yes, summer is outdoor market time!
• Devonport Collective Pop-Up Market, Saturday 13 December, 10am-2pm, Devonport RSA. Meet the makers and designers as they showcase their products, ideas and artistry in person. From handicrafts, ceramics and jewellery to fashion and textiles, you can shop Christmas and shop local at the same time. devonport.co.nz/events
• Smales Farm Markets with the Market Collaborative, Sunday 14 December, and Sunday 8 February, 9am - 2pm. smalesfarm.co.nz/event/the-marketcollaborative-at-smales-farm/ SUMMER
Need an adrenaline fix after too much Christmas cheer? Here are some summer race events you could take part in. Push your boundaries and achieve a personal best or just head along to watch the action and the drama from the sidelines.
• Harcourts Cooper & Co Beach Series, Takapuna, Tuesday 9 December and Tuesday 16 December, registration from 4pm. Resumes Tuesday 3 February. Includes swims, stand-up paddleboarding and the sandbox fitness challenge. Enter online at beachseries.co.nz/pages/events
• Barfoot & Thompson Swim and Run Series, Takapuna, Wednesday 10 December, Wednesday 21 January, Wednesday 4 February, registration from 5.15pm. Run by North Harbour Triathlon Club for anyone 12 years and above; each race offers a different length. Enter
online at events.barefootsport.co.nz/ event/1516
• Harcourts Cooper & Co Run Devonport, Sunday 18 January, Navy fields, Ngataringa Bay, from 8am. A classic summer run on the Devonport waterfront. 5km, 10km or 15km distances with a 2km fun run for the kids. Enter online at rundevonport.werun.nz
• Auckland Urban Amphibian Swimrun on Saturday 31 January, registration from 6am. With four length options, the longest of which is the 40km Takapuna to Long Bay return. Enter online at amphibianswimrun.co.nz/pages/ auckland-urban-amphibian
Sun on your shoulders, the scent of doughnuts and popcorn in the air, the happy buzz of children seeking a sweet treat…
Auckland is called the City of Sails but there are many kinds of watercraft we love to see out on the Hauraki Gulf or Lake Pupuke!
• Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta, Monday 26 January. From optimists at Murrays Bay Sailing Club through to
windfoiling and kitefoiling at Takapuna, and Sea Scouts sailing at Narrow Neck Beach, there is so much happening on Anniversary Day. Head over to Maungauika / North Head to watch the iconic harbour events. The classic launch race starts at 11am, and the classic yachts at 1pm. Check it out here regatta.org.nz/regatta-participants/ schedule-of-regatta-events
• Head of Harbour rowing regatta, Saturday, 7 February, Lake Pupuke. Rowing clubs from across Auckland and further afield will gather at Lake Pupuke again this February to compete in the 90th edition of this famed event, the largest rowing regatta in Auckland. Hosted by Takapuna Grammar School, this short-course regatta plays an important part in school-aged rowers’ preparations for the Maadi Cup (held next March in the South Island). Pride is at stake as crews contribute points for the overall ‘Head of Harbour’ and aim to wrest the title from 2025 winner St Kentigern’s College. Refreshments available at the Sylvan Park end of the lake, where spectators can also get an excellent view of the finish line. Check it out here tgsrowing.org.nz
• Takapuna Beach Cup, Friday 13Sunday 15 February. This three-day Aotearoa Waka Ama event attracts national and international paddlers. Get along to Takapuna Beach to see a sport that has its roots in Pacific culture
and is open to rangatahi (youth) and pakeke (adults). See the schedule at takapunabeachcup.com.
Interested in trying waka ama?
See wakaama.co.nz/clubs
You might now be inspired to get out on the water yourself, getting a feel for the waves and the wind with a small boat under your control. If you don’t have the necessary skills, we have experts on the Shore who can help you, with classes desinged for children through to adults.
• Sir Peter Blake Marine Education and Recreation Centre at Long Bay offers BOLD, a sailing programme for 10 to 13-year-olds to learn about themselves and leadership through sailing, 12-16 January. Find out more at merc.org.nz/ holiday-programmes
• At Lake Pupuke, you can learn Hobie Getaway, Laser or Open Bic sailing. Madloop Windsurfing partners with Meltemi Beach Cats to offer instructed sailing lessons and sailboat rentals. Check out madloop.co.nz/sailing
• Or choose something more highpowered: hire a jetski at the Takapuna Beach ramp from Auckland Jet Ski Rentals. They ensure that every rider is outfitted with an appropriate life vest, as well as a training session on New Zealand boating rules and regulations, and the safe use and operation of the jet ski being hired. jetskirental.co.nz
Summer is a great time to get outdoors with the family in whatever ways appeal to you! You might have a beach day, go fishing, get out on a boat, or take some time to explore our coastlines, lakes, rivers, parks or bush walks. It’s all about spending time together, getting out in the fresh air, and opening your eyes to see the landscape and the community around you. If you have children in the family, or are feeling young at heart yourselves, there are some special events you can get involved in:
• Several fun family events are happening in Northcote, supported by volunteers from the Northcote Together group, a group of locals who help make more fun things happen in the area. Check out Northcote Crafty Christmas, Saturday 20 December 10am-2pm in Norman King Square. Kids can get crafty and make their own handmade Christmas cards, decorations and wrapping paper, as well as ideas for upcycled Christmas presents. northcotetogther.org
• Northcote Topsy Turvy Town, Saturday 7 February, 10am-2pm, Pearn Place. A family activity day where the town revolves around its youngest community members. Kids can make some crazy food at the bakery, get junior fire-fighting training at the fire station, post playful letters at the post office, and more! northcotetogether.org/event-detailsregistration/topsy-turvy-town
• Wipeout Waterpark is scheduled to be in Browns Bay, Mairangi Bay, and Killarney Park this summer. Lots of hilarity and fun for those 5 years and up (9 years and under must have a participating adult). See the schedule and buy tickets at wipeout.co.nz/buy-tickets
• XRace: Devonport, Sunday 25 January, 10am at Windsor Reserve, Devonport. XRace is an adventure race where a parent and child (6-14 years old) race together, solve mystery challenges, and compete against the clock and other family teams. Tickets at xrace.co.nz/ pages/Devonport
• How about getting the kids involved to give a helping hand to nature this summer? You can participate in a conservation effort like Streamcare with Pupuke Birdsong Project. Pupuke Birdsong Project works in the northern suburbs of the Devonport- Takapuna Local Board area, eradicating pests and restoring local native habitats. pupukebirdsong.org.nz/get-involved-inyour-local-area/
Enjoy the summer sun with a picnic at one of our beaches or parks. It’s a great way to explore a spot you haven’t tried before. Any of the Shore beaches are a good bet; other favourites are Killarney Park, Little Shoal Bay, Chelsea Heritage Park, Operetu Fort Takapuna, Takarunga/
Mount Victoria, Maungauika/North Head and Devonport Domain. If you don’t want to pack a picnic, you could have a wide choice of delicious taste sensations from a host of different cuisines at a food truck event – complete with live music and a pop-up bar serving craft beers and local wines. See here for their scheduled dates at Torbay, Milford, Takapuna and Birkenhead foodtruckcollective.co.nz
There’s a special kind of magic in dancing with a crowd on a summer’s afternoon, to a band with a groove that gets everyone moving, particularly if good food and great drinks are also involved!
• Sunsetter Festival, Windsor Reserve, Devonport, Saturday 31 January, 1-9pm, R20+ Sunsetter 2025 made a big debut in Devonport earlier this year and proved that the Shore can party with the best of them! Now it’s returning to blow multiple of your senses this January with great sounds, delicious food and drinks and a fabulous vibe. It includes local and international music acts, such as Super Disco Club, DJ Spen and Sgt Slick, as well as food vendors, wineries, breweries and a range of creative cocktails. Tickets at sunsetterfestival.co.nz/purchase-tickets
Information correct as of 21 November – please check individual websites for confirmation closer to event dates.
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Milford has welcomed the arrival of summer with the warmth and unity that define our coastal community. As the days grow longer and the pōhutukawa burst into colour, the village has enjoyed a vibrant start to the season through a series of events that brought locals, visitors, and businesses together in true Milford fashion.
A wonderful start to summer
This year’s early-summer calendar offered something for everyone, and each event added its own spark to the community.
• Milford mall magic
The festive season officially began inside Milford Centre, where the mall has once again transformed into a cheerful hub of Christmas joy. With enchanting decorations, Santa visits, and hands-on activities like cookie decorating, families enjoyed a welcoming and relaxed space to slow down, connect, and begin their holiday traditions. The response from the community was warm and enthusiastic - a clear sign that this beloved event continues to bring people together year after year.
• A-Class Catamaran World Championships
Milford had the privilege of hosting the prestigious A-Class Catamaran World Championships along our stunning coastline.
Spectators lined the shore to watch world-class sailors glide across the water in a spectacular display of skill and teamwork. The foil racing added a dynamic energy to Milford, and many locals expressed pride in seeing such an international sporting event take place right here at home. It was a special reminder of how unique our location truly is.
• Early summer shopping and local highlights
Local retailers are embracing the season with beautiful displays, warm service, and creative touches that are encouraging the community to shop local. From beach-themed windows to thoughtful gift ideas, Milford businesses helped spark the festive spirit and created meaningful moments of connection with customers. The early buzz in the village set a hopeful, positive tone for the months ahead.
community that makes summer shine
More than anything, these early-summer moments highlight what Milford does best: community. It’s the friendly conversations outside cafés, the families gathering by the beach, the shop owners greeting familiar faces, and the volunteers working quietly in the background that make our area feel like a true village. As these events unfold, they remind us how much Milford thrives when people come together, whether to celebrate, to explore, or simply to enjoy a beautiful day by the water.
ahead with gratitude
With a strong and spirited start to the season behind us, Milford now looks toward the rest of the summer with gratitude and optimism. The shoreline, the shops, and the people who bring this place to life have already made the first chapter of summer memorable. If the past few weeks are anything to go by, the season ahead promises to be full of warmth, connection, and the simple joy of being part of a community that cares.
It’s the friendly conversations outside cafés, the families gathering by the beach, the shop owners greeting familiar faces, and the volunteers working quietly in the background that make our area feel like a true village.
Christmas things to look out for:
The Benefitz (and Channel Mag) team love getting into the Christmas spirit, so when we were asked to assist Ray White Milford with design, printing and signage for their ‘Christmas Wonderland’ initiative, we jumped at the chance.
What they created was something very similar to the Smith & Caughey Christmas experience that sadly ended with the closure of the iconic department store. Ray White Milford Christmas Wonderland dominated the impressive real estate office from 20 November to 1 December.
“Each year, we run a campaign at Christmas called Little Ray of Giving, a charity initiative fronted by our mascot Little Ray, where members of the public are invited to donate gifts under the Christmas tree for families in need,” explained Kris Cunningham of Ray White Milford. “This year, we wanted to take it to another level and transform our front of house and auction room into a magical Santa’s Grotto to become a destination on
the Shore to take a photo with your family and create an experience like Smith & Caughey previously offered.”
I popped down to Ray White Milford in late November and had my own photograph with Santa. What was created with the help of our print and signage was very special. You really did get that ‘Smith & Caughey Christmas buzz’ with the friendly Ray White team adding to the festive feel.
The Benefitz team helped with exterior signage on the windows, internal display signage for the walls and Santa’s Grotto. Also, a special-shaped temporary archway was made to create the entrance to the 'North Pole'. A sleigh was created for Santa, as well as an exterior A-frame for outside the office.
Ray White Milford wanted this to be a standout Christmas experience on the Shore, and they certainly achieved that and more. A great example of a local business giving back to its community.
By Aidan Bennett
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As the year draws to a close, we’d like to take a moment to thank our wonderful clients and community for their continued support and trust in Shore Travel. It’s been an incredible year helping so many of you plan unforgettable adventures.
Looking ahead, we’re already dreaming of 2026 and beyond. With global travel now back in full swing, it’s worth remembering that popular cruises and tours often book out one to two years in advance, especially with the strong demand from U.S. travellers who plan well ahead. So, if your bucket list includes a Mediterranean voyage, a luxury rail journey, or a small-group adventure through Africa or Asia, now is the perfect time to start planning.
At Shore Travel, we love nothing more than turning your travel dreams into reality. Whether it’s crafting a tailor-made itinerary filled with unique, off-the-beaten-path moments or matching you with the perfect cruise, we take pride in creating seamless, memorable journeys designed just for you.
Celebrating 10 years
Bringing the world to the North Shore.
Our team’s own travel experiences this year have been just as inspiring. Mary explored the Greek Islands and Southern Italy with Regent Seven Seas, then embarked on a luxury African safari with Adventure World. Anne-Marie enjoyed a Viking Ocean Cruise from Barcelona to Rome before discovering the wonders of Turkey with Innovative Travel. Renee adventured through Africa with Viva Expeditions, cruised up the Danube with Avalon, and joined a Backroads tour in Portugal. Collette indulged her passions with a tailor-made art and cuisine journey through France. Karen and her family soaked up the warmth of Samoa, while Rinku travelled through India with loved ones. Sylvia cruised to Australia with Princess and explored Eastern Europe with family, and Dave combined his love of travel and sport, journeying through Europe and attending the Singapore Formula 1.
… it’s worth remembering that popular cruises and tours often book out one to two years in advance …
Travel keeps us inspired, connected, and full of life, and we can’t wait to share that energy with you in 2026. Because when you skip winter, you’re never really running out of summers. Let’s plan your next adventure – together.
Shore Travel – your Europe experts Flights • Accommodation • Tours • Cruises • Tailored Experiences Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
By Christine Young
When the new Devonport-Takapuna Local Board was sworn in at The PumpHouse on 4 November, it comprised a mix of conservative and progressive members, representatives of both main groupings that had put forward a team for election, and independents. It included two newbies to local politics, one of whom was subsequently chosen as deputy chair. Christine Young spoke to the new deputy chair Scott Macarthur, town planner turned politician, to get his perspective on his move into local body politics, and on how he and his fellow board members will face the next three years.
On the new board alongside Scott are veteran politician George Wood, Gavin Busch (first elected in 2022), Terence
Harpur (also back for a second term), Trish Deans (previously on the local board from 2019-2022, and a long-time community advocate), and independent and political newcomer Garth Ellingham. It could be a recipe for the kind of infighting the board experienced a while back, with all political views and factions vying for their perspective to take precedence.
More likely, according to Scott, despite some reported infighting over the selection of chair and deputy chair, it is a board open to working together, to debating issues, and coming to consensus on what they want –and what it is possible for – the board to achieve.
Scott brings with him nearly 20 years’ experience as a town planner, most
recently with his company Urban Planning Consultants. He has worked in roles including resource consents and compliance for Council, transport planning roles for Auckland Transport, and as a team leader in the resource consents department. He has also worked as a planning consultant both early in his career and at present. Pre-election he said he would bring his “particular and very relevant skill set... to the table. I will invest my time in improving our city whether that is better urban design, more effective public transport or better planned and upgraded parks and coastal boardwalks.”
Scott is pleased to have emerged with the deputy chair position, if for no other reason than financial considerations, as he knows
he will have to reduce his consultancy commitments. He and Trish Deans will share the chair and deputy roles, with Trish bringing her previous experience to bear as chair in the first half of the political term. Scott will use that time to get fully to grips not only with local issues, but also with the various pieces of legislation that impact on local body politics. Scott believes Trish is well-suited to the chair’s role, and that “we can all work well together. There are no tensions and we can all work through issues collectively.”
With the first local board meeting post-election focusing on budget issues, he believes the biggest challenge facing the board is that ”a lot of the information we receive from Council staff is quite opaque, with not a lot of detail, for example on budget. We want to get more detail.”
He recognises the tension between local decision-making and the “straitjacket of policies” as well as between regional and local priorities, but also comments that while Council wants to empower local boards, little has been delegated to date. He cites as an example the Devonport Claystore – an asset with no budget, that is also designated as a heritage building that needs to be maintained.
He also cites local issues such as traffic on Northboro Road, about which he says he has “bombarded” Auckland Transport (AT). He’s gratified that AT has acknowledged his concerns and has said they are looking into it. But in this, as in other issues, he says, “We want progress and action.”
Pre-election, Scott was bold in his ambitions for the Devonport-Takapuna area and for Auckland as a whole, stating that Council needs “to do better in managing the man-made city. That means better architecture, a more balanced approach to transport, and investment in beautifying parks and town centres”. He says that over his years running his own planning consultancy he’s noticed a shift from developers buying a site they want to develop and getting an architect involved, to development now being more driven by developers without any input from an architect. “Unfortunately, over time, the architects are gone… and the results are challenging.” He’s referring to some of the poorer quality, high-density developments not just in the local board area but across Auckland. “Development should be adding to the community, rather than detracting from it,” he says, commenting that the “rules-based, technocratic” approach of the Resource Management Act further exacerbates this trend.
As a local board member, he knows his influence may be limited, but he is
determined he’ll make the most of his opportunity to advocate for the improvements he’d like to see. He says the DTLB is united in its efforts around advocacy for the area in the consultation currently under way regarding intensification and Plan Change 120. “We want developments to go to an urban design panel for approval,” he says. He adds that prior to his election, he attended meetings where the Council planning team presented to the local board and asked for feedback. Despite the previous board providing that, none of their feedback was included in the final consultation document. As an independent town planner, he says he finds that “frustrating”.
He says the DTLB is united in its efforts around advocacy for the area in the consultation currently under way regarding intensification and Plan Change 120.
He knows “we don’t have decisionmaking power” in regard to overall city planning, but is keen to make to most of the relationships the board has with councillors Richard Hills and John Gillon, and that they can build with Council officers.
On a local scale, Scott has a few targets in his sights. He’s keen to see a complete, quality, cycle path along the south-western coast from Devonport to Akoranga Drive. At present, as he points out, there is “no consistency”, with the cycle path disappearing entirely in some places and changing from gravel to an unworkable, narrow, concrete shared space for cyclists and pedestrians in Plymouth Reserve in Bayswater. He suggests the board could start small, at the southern end, and
allocate budget to start to link up sections of the shared path in a meaningful way. And while there is no budget for the much-longed-for bridge from the bottom of Francis Street to Esmonde Road, he suggests that as Watercare is planning a “massive watermain project” that could disrupt parts of Lake Road over the next few years, perhaps they could consider building the bridge to carry the water main, rather than impacting on the already stressed main road.
Similarly, on a think-small scale, while the local board cannot impact materially on the 10-15 minute frequency he desires for public transport, the local board could help make bus travel more appealing by using some of its budget for bus shelters at every bus stop. And as for beautification, he’s an advocate of more trees – natives, or flowering – enhancing streets and parks. Watch this space.
Scott Macarthur is looking for action, and is prepared to speak out for the things he believes are important to the area and to the city. He’s grateful to everyone who voted for him, and thinks that his election might have been due in no small part to his town planning background, and practical and pragmatic approach. “I was willing to stick my neck out and say what I want to do.” He notes that Garth Ellingham, who is also new to the board, and Mike Single who missed out as the seventh highest polling candidate, are both engineers, with equally pragmatic perspectives.
He realises he has a lot to learn but says he and political running mate Terence Harpur “ don’t want to say no to everything”. That approach might risk saying yes to too much, he concedes –but for Scott, one senses that would be preferable to the negative or conservative alternative.
As the year draws to a close and we enter 2026, we’re well into festive season and holiday mode. We catch up with some familiar faces who share how they’re spending their summer break, from family traditions and community events, to the ways they plan to relax and enjoy what the Shore has to offer.
Suzy Cato is a Kiwi icon and Shore resident who is preparing for her 'Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas with Suzy' concert, playing at the Bruce Mason Centre in December. Suzy joins the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra for Christmas singalong favourites, including ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ and ‘Jingle Bells’, alongside merry orchestral music, and Suzy’s beloved original songs, ‘Sprinkle a Little Sunshine’ and ‘See Ya, See Ya Later’. The Kiwi entertainer says her schooling in the Far North town of Kaikohe made it very easy to make the North Shore her eventual home; the beautiful beaches lining the coast, the easily accessible bush tracks throughout Birkenhead, the wide stretches of parks, and how quickly you are able to find yourself back in farmland. It’s a beautiful second home, according to Suzy.
Channel Mag: What does celebrating the festive season mean to you?
Suzy Cato: Family, first and foremost, and the treasured time spent together. Love and laughter while making memories. Good food, good music and a good ol' movie or two.
Do you have a summer or Christmas tradition that's unique to you and your family?
We have several. One tradition we make the most of when the
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz SimonWattsMP
weather and tide are right is a trek to our favourite little sheltered bay with a platter of fresh fruit, a bottle of soda water, a selection of our favourite charcuterie board treats, a frisbee and our togs! Some years the bay is packed, other years we have it almost to ourselves. Bliss! Are you staying local this summer or heading away? Where do you go to take a break?
We’re home this summer. Auckland is amazing in summer, but I’ll also be very busy filming a brand-new project! We’re in the studio on 5 Jan - what a way to start the new year!
What would your ultimate North Shore summer day include? Family, as well as food, laughs, games, the volume turned up, and the BBQ turned on. A trip to that wee bay with friends to enjoy a refreshing drink and a BBQ feast.
What’s top of your New Year’s resolution list?
I don’t have a New Year's resolution list, to be honest. I don’t have a bucket list either; mine's more of a barrel list! There are so many places to go and things to do within Auckland and New Zealand, that give you the opportunity to live your best life, that we just need to step out the door and start doing them whenever we can.
Do you have something fun, local, or community-focused you’d love to try in 2026?
So much of what I do is community and child-focused, and I love that. I have a regular Bub’s Club event at Shore City, and a monthly Sounds Fun music event for kids and families at The Tuning Fork. I get to do so much with schools across Tamaki Makaurau with the Auckland Philharmonia, and I have so many invitations to visit schools and preschools across the city. 2026 is about building a community around my new project and touring to support its launch, and I can’t wait!
Tunes 4 Tamariki: Christmas with Suzy 2pm and 3.30pm, Sunday 14 December, Bruce Mason Theatre 10am and 11.30am, Sunday 21 December, Auckland Town Hall Bookings at aucklandphil.nz Recommended for ages 6 and under
James Bryant is the owner of Takapuna Beach Café, the busy restaurant at the end of Takapuna Beach that’s always bustling with locals and visitors to the area. The team has recently launched their Fish & Chip Shop offering for the summer months, which is the perfect option for customers wanting to enjoy the delicious food at TBC in a casual setting like the beach or local park (we also suggest grabbing some of the award-winning gelato while you’re at it!). The café has recently begun offering a selection of expertly selected wines and beers, which pair perfectly with their dinein food menu. James talks about summer at the café and the other Shore spots he frequents on a rare day off.
Channel Mag: What does celebrating the festive season mean to you?
James Bryant: As Takapuna Beach Café is open through the summer, it means hosting customers and being available for those summer catch-ups and celebrations.
What's your go-to order at TBC over the summer?
Fish & Chip Shop, our summer pop-up at Takapuna Beach Café. It's a great way to have a casual catch-up with friends and family, especially those with kids or visiting from overseas.
Dan Bidois is the local Member of Parliament for Northcote and is also a qualified butcher, economist, proud NZ Warriors fan and occasional runner. Dan, who lives in Birkenhead, is currently the Deputy Chair of Parliament’s Transport and Infrastructure select committee and a member of the Finance and Expenditure select committee. Dan’s married to Courtney, with their dog Mylo and their son Noah. He’ll be spending the summer break locally and plans to visit Waiheke and enjoy some quality family time.
Channel Mag: What does celebrating the festive season mean to you?
Dan Bidois: The festive season to me is all about spending time with family and putting life in perspective by looking back on the year that has been and looking forward to the year ahead.
Do you have a summer or Christmas tradition that's unique to you and your family?
My wife goes all out on Christmas decorations around the house, which is a nice tradition we are continuing for our son. My traditions over summer are a bit more dull; I choose two books to read to help me frame up the next year, and I always manage to give the house a good waterblast.
Do you have a summer or Christmas tradition that's unique to you and your family?
Opening Takapuna Beach Café on Christmas morning. For some customers, coming to the café has become a Christmas family tradition. We're open for takeaway coffee, pastries and gelato only, so the service is relaxed, everyone's in a good mood, and our team have a great time spreading the Christmas cheer.
What would your ultimate North Shore summer day include?
Our go-to coffee is Allpress, but on a day off, we'd drop into Tob Coffee Roasters in Rosedale. Then we'd take Murphy the Labrador on a walk at a beach or a parkwe're spoilt for choice on the North Shore. We'd wind down the day with a wine at Bon Pinard in Birkenhead, one of Sarah and Jordan Macdonald's great hospitality venues along Hinemoa Street.
Do you have something fun, local, or community-focused you’d love to try in 2026?
We'd love to see if there are ways for Takapuna Beach Café to give back to the North Shore community in tangible ways... Watch this space!
takapunabeachcafe.com
22 The Promenade, Takapuna
Are you staying local this summer or heading away? Where do you go to take a break?
Apart from a week's trip to Waiheke Island, we are staying local this year. I am looking forward to disconnecting before a big election year next year, and to giving my backyard a proper clean-up.
What would your ultimate North Shore summer day include?
A morning dog walk along Narrow Neck or Takapuna Beach, followed by brunch in Hinemoa Street, then a midday jog down Onewa Rd and back, followed by family time at home, and then an afternoon ice
cream from Gelato Workshop in Birkenhead Village, and finally a home-cooked meal with my family.
What’s top of your New Year’s resolution list?
Win the right to represent the great electorate of Northcote for another three years at the 2026 general election!
Do you have something fun, local, or community-focused you’d love to try in 2026?
I would love to take my wife on a date night to Live Wire in Birkenhead - it looks like a lot of fun!
Paul Ego is a Devonport Resident of 25 years and a veteran New Zealand comedian, radio guy, TV guy and the voice of the iconic Pak ’n Save ‘Stickman', which will be very recognisable to most readers! Paul and his family live in the house that his wife grew up in, which their sons have now also grown up in, which he says is pretty special. Paul talks about the festive break, including a Love Actually viewing at Christmas time and preparing for his 2026 comedy tour.
Channel Mag: What does celebrating the festive season mean to you?
Paul Ego: Time with friends, enjoying a slower pace, and just turning off the brain for a bit. The only work I wanna do is working my way through the incredible Christmas cake my mum makes every year.
Do you have a summer or Christmas tradition that's unique to you and your family?
We invite our closest friends round every Christmas Eve to watch Love Actually. It’s more of a lip sync session really, 'cos we’ve all seen it at least 10 times.
Are you staying local this summer or heading away? Where do you go to take a break?
I’m not falling for that, you’ll burgle my house! Maybe I’m going to Pauanui, maybe I’m not. If I have a vicious cat, I’m leaving it here, so you’ve been warned.
What would your ultimate North Shore summer day include?
A licorice ice cream from Takapuna Beach Cafe then a pie and swim at Narrow Neck.
The only work I wanna do is working my way through the incredible Christmas cake my mum makes every year.
Do you have something fun, local, or community-focused you’d love to try in 2026?
What’s top of your New Year’s resolution list?
I resolve not to make any changes - I love my life.
Well, I’m embarking on my first ever solo standup comedy tour next year. I’ve been doing comedy for 30 years, so it’s about time. The tour’s called ’STICK’ so keep an eye out for it.
By Hon Simon Watts, North Shore MP
Safety in our town centres is something locals have raised with me often. No one should feel unsafe walking down Hurstmere Road or worry that their business will be the next target of retail crime. That is why this government is taking decisive action to restore law and order right here on the North Shore.
Takapuna now has a dedicated beat team back on the streets. This team of six constables and a sergeant is strengthening the North Shore police presence and working alongside the existing community policing team based at Anzac Street. Their role is to provide a visible presence in busy areas, engage with locals, and respond quickly to incidents. The goal is clear: reduce crime and give people confidence that police are there when needed.
This initiative is part of a nationwide plan to deliver 500 extra police. Next year, 51 additional officers will be redeployed to Auckland, eventually increasing to 63.
The beat team is focused on Takapuna, Albany, and Glenfield, as well as patrolling the Northern Busway to increase visibility and safety across key transport hubs. They will work closely with other community teams to ensure maximum coverage across the Shore.
This initiative is part of a nationwide plan to deliver 500 extra police. Next year, 51 additional officers will be redeployed to Auckland, eventually increasing to 63. These officers will be highly visible in the public places people care about most: main streets malls, and transport hubs. We have listened to the community, and the police have too.
This is just one part of what we have done to restore law and order. We have banned gang insignia in public places, introduced dispersal notices to break up gang gatherings, and have reinstated 'three strikes' so repeat offenders face tougher consequences.
This government is focused on results. After years of rising lawlessness, this government is taking serious action so North Shore communities can feel safe again.
Hon Simon Watts — MP for North Shore Minister of Energy, Climate Change, Revenue and Local Government
Email: simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
09 486 0005
facebook: @simonwattsmp instagram: @simonwattsmp
This Christmas, Harbour Hospice will care for around 500 local families. Day or night, 24/7, its specialist teams will be there for families and whānau so they can celebrate in whatever way is meaningful to them. For Judy and Peter, that means keeping things simple.
For some families, Christmas is all about the traditional turkey dinner. For others, it’s a bbq on the beach or enjoying an afternoon nap. For Judy and Peter, the magic lies in simplicity. “In 52 years of marriage, we’ve had all kinds of Christmases, but what works best for us is keeping things simple,” says Judy.
There’s still a special meal – king salmon served with pan-fried vegetables, plus meats, cheeses and desserts that the family has brought. And there are presents for the grandchildren, of course. But when the couple’s son told them he loved Christmas at theirs because he could relax, they knew they’d got the formula right. Judy sums up: “Christmas for us is just another day, but with a bow.”
The couple, who came under hospice care in June 2022 after Judy was diagnosed with terminal metastatic cancer, says knowing hospice is only a phone call away over the festive season brings reassurance. “It’s like hospice is sitting right here on our shoulder, but we don’t feel their weight. Like Christmas angels,” Peter says.
When Judy was first told she was terminal, she appreciated frequent visits from hospice’s community nursing and medical team. Now the visits are less frequent as the couple has settled into “what works for us”. They’ve also taken comfort in hospice counselling sessions.
Facing Judy’s mortality has taught them many lessons. Perhaps the biggest lesson, that it’s the little moments that matter. “It’s not the trips overseas or spending money on a new car,” says Peter. “It’s living our lives the way we like to, enjoying each day with nature around us.” Judy adds, “Being in this situation has helped us realise that what’s important to us is to feel special at home. Because being at home is comforting when you’re dealing with discomfort.”
“Every morning we wake up together is a blessing,” Peter says. “It’s Christmas Day every day.”
Please donate today to help families focus on what truly matters this Christmas harbourhospice.org.nz/donate/appeal
With WBB Chartered Accountants now joining Andersen, we are expanding what is possible for local businesses, individuals, and families.
Combining world-class experience with down to earth kiwi practicality - Andersen provides access to a wide range of capability and a team backed by decades of experience across complex and everyday business challenges.
• Chartered accountants
• Business advisory services
• Corporate finance
• Tax advisory
Beyond the numbers – Andersen delivers solutions that fit, guidance you can trust, and partnership focused on helping your business grow. Contact our North Shore team for advice tailored to your business, your budget, and your goals.
Let’s Grow Together
By Mike Atkinson, Managing Director, Andersen.
As 2025 draws to a close, Andersen New Zealand stands at the threshold of a new era, one defined by bold transformation, strategic growth, and a renewed commitment to empowering clients. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by milestones that have reshaped our identity and set the stage for future opportunity.
On 10 March, Bellingham Wallace proudly announced its transition to a full member of Andersen Global, rebranding after three years as a collaborating firm. This was more than a change of name; it was a commitment to excellence, global reach, and client-centric service. By aligning with one of the world’s most respected professional services brands, Andersen has strengthened its ability to deliver world-class accounting, growth partner solutions, tax, and corporate finance services, while remaining firmly rooted in the local market that clients know and trust.
The Andersen name carries a legacy of quality and integrity. Bringing it back to New Zealand was a deliberate choice, made with our clients and our market in mind. Consequently, we are positioned to compete at the highest level and support New Zealand businesses in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
So far in 2025, we completed two acquisitions, welcomed new team members, including senior leaders whom we recruited from the big four accounting firms, rebranded from Bellingham Wallace to Andersen, and established a dedicated offshore team. Each step was taken with a clear vision: to serve our clients better, to innovate, and to build a future that reflects our ambitions.
As a result of taking stewardship of the Andersen brand in New Zealand, we prompted a deep reflection on our strategic direction. We challenged our thinking, collaborated closely, and after several iterations, landed on a future pathway that requires us to grow with purpose. This was a great reminder that it’s critical for all of us to stop and challenge our thinking on a regular basis, and to also be prepared to make a step change. “If you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got.” This quote, often attributed to Henry Ford, reminds us that growth requires stepping outside our comfort zones.
We made the move to step outside our comfort zone to rebrand our business, develop a strategy for growth and embark on acquisitions, so what bold step will you take in 2026 to move closer to your vision? We encourage you to dream big, set your sights high, and know that Andersen stands beside you, ready to support, empower, and celebrate every step forward. If you need a partner to assist, guide and support you on your strategic journey, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Adding to an already dynamic year, we are thrilled to announce the integration of WBB Chartered Accountants, effective 1 December 2025, into Andersen. WBB is a highly respected boutique accounting and advisory firm based in Takapuna, Auckland, known
for “Delivering Extraordinary Care” a philosophy that resonates deeply with Andersen’s own values. This partnership expands our client base, brings additional expertise, and strengthens our presence on Auckland’s North Shore. Most importantly, it reflects our commitment to growth through strategic partnerships that enhance our capabilities and broaden our reach for your benefit. The expansion of Andersen onto the North Shore marks a significant and exciting milestone in our journey. Establishing a presence in Takapuna not only brings us closer to our clients but also reflects our commitment to serving the vibrant business community in this dynamic region. The North Shore is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and growth, and we are thrilled to be part of its future and to cement our roots on the North Shore once again, with both Matt Bellingham and myself serving as past presidents of the North Harbour Club, and a number of our team living on the North Shore. We, alongside the team from WBB, look forward to contributing to the North Shore’s continued success and becoming an integral part of its thriving professional landscape.
The Andersen Global network now gives us access to best practices, technical depth, international connections, and resources that help us deliver even greater value to our clients. Combined with the talent and experience of the WBB team and our new colleagues, we are well-positioned to accelerate our growth strategy in 2026 and beyond. Our focus remains on empowering and supporting business owners, providing innovative solutions, and driving success in a rapidly changing environment.
This time of year is special; it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the people who make our journey meaningful. On behalf of the entire Andersen team, I want to wish you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished moments. May your holidays be a time of rest and renewal, surrounded by those who matter most. Whether you’re celebrating with family, reconnecting with friends, or simply enjoying a welldeserved break, know that we are grateful for the trust you place in us and the relationship we share.
For those considering a new advisory partner, Andersen offers a unique blend of local expertise and global perspective. Our team is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals, navigate challenges, and seize opportunities. Now is the perfect time to consider becoming a client of Andersen, where your ambitions are matched by world-class expertise and a genuine commitment to your success.
From our Andersen family to yours, merry Christmas and happy New Year.
470 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland
09 309 7851
nz.Andersen.com
By Nova Edgcombe BSc RDH
“Even the cleanest-looking smile can hide build-up below the surface – just like a boat’s hull beneath the waterline.”
There’s nothing more satisfying than a freshly polished boat gleaming under the summer sun, gliding effortlessly across the water. Yet below the surface, barnacles quietly begin to form. They cling hard, dulling performance, slowing movement, and robbing the hull of its natural shine.
Our teeth tell a similar story. What looks clean in the mirror can hide a layer of plaque and mineralised deposits beneath the gumline. This hardened build-up, known as calculus, is the dental equivalent of barnacles; stubborn, rough, and impossible to remove with brushing alone. Over time, it traps stains, irritates gums, and disrupts the balance of your mouth’s ecosystem.
Reset before you set sail
A professional dental clean is the only way to remove the 'barnacles' and surface stains that accumulate over time. Think of it as seasonal maintenance, restoring smoothness, brilliance, and flow before summer fully arrives. Whitening treatments work best after this reset, revealing an even, luminous finish that lasts long after the holidays.
Summer habits that stick
The festive season brings its share of indulgences, long lunches, sparkling drinks, citrus and sweet treats. It’s the perfect storm of acid, sugar and dehydration. To keep your enamel strong, sip plenty of water, avoid continuous grazing, and wait half an hour before brushing after acidic foods or drinks.
If your teeth feel sensitive or chalky, look for toothpaste containing nanohydroxyapatite to help rebuild enamel and reduce irritation; a simple, effective way to counteract summer wear.
Because, like a well-kept boat, a radiant smile depends on what’s cared for beneath the surface.
Nova Edgcombe BSc, RDH
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
The first weekend of December often signals the derailment of the wellness regime. The weather continues to change, routines shift, and the balance of work, family and health gets tested. The chaos can create opportunities to try out exercising at a different time of the day.
Morning exercise gets it done before the day gets in the way, and it increases metabolic rate for the hours ahead. Morning provides the opportunity to do fasted cardio, often a good way to burn body fat. Many gym-goers shift to early morning sessions in December to free themselves up for post-work functions.
Evening exercise can be a good time for weight training because strength, flexibility, co-ordination and stamina often improve as the day goes on. Many people find it helps to have a couple of meals on board over the day before attempting intense exercise. And being at the gym is a great way to avoid spending evenings eating festive treats.
Middle of the day exercise can be a useful way to break up the work day, particularly if you have a sedentary job. Circulating blood to your brain improves cognitive functioning. It can help avoid an afternoon energy slump and the associated snacking. A middle-ofthe-day workout is even more efficient if you can time it for off-peak gym times (late morning or early afternoon). You can zip around with minimal interruptions and be back to work for an efficient afternoon. While you have your carpark at Les Mills Takapuna you could even do a bit of off-peak Christmas shopping.
Your personal temperament plays a big role in the ideal time of day for exercise. We all have an individual chronotype or body rhythm. Some people are natural larks and easily get out of bed for their morning exercise. They find it puts them in a good frame of mind to make healthy choices for the rest of the day. Other people are natural owls and find it more difficult to rise early. Often they enjoy an evening workout to blow off steam after a busy day at work.
Going against your natural temperament can make it more difficult to maintain momentum, particularly if you’re losing sleep to do it. Rest is necessary for your body to renew, repair and regulate hormones. If you’re under stress and sleep-deprived then getting up early could be counter-productive. It could also potentially overstimulate your appetite for the remainder of the day. If you’re somebody who struggles to wind down at night then getting your heart rate and adrenaline up close to bedtime could make it more difficult to get a restful sleep, particularly if you’re prone to overheating.
Everyone has a different temperament and a different set of responsibilities, so everyone’s scheduling solution is unique. The important thing is to get a mix of cardio, strength and flexibility exercise in a sustainable manner. Most people end up needing to exercise at a variety of times of day to fit everything in. There are always times of the week, month and year when it’s easier to push back against your natural inclination. If you’re an owl trying to be a part-time lark it makes sense to experiment with the type of exercise you find least unpleasant. Save the more onerous components of the exercise mix for the times when you have the most energy.
Ultimately, your festive fitness needs to fit in around your life, not your life around your fitness. No scheduling solution is perfect, but your summer vitality is worth the effort.
Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna 0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz clairebellingham.co.nz claire@clairebellingham.co.nz
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Summer brings sunshine, swimming, and outdoor activities – all potential culprits for common ear issues. Whether you're hitting the beach or the backyard pool, it's crucial to prioritise taking care of your ears.
One of the most prevalent summer problems is impacted earwax. Water exposure can cause existing wax to swell, leading to a feeling of fullness, reduced hearing, or even pain. Avoid using cotton swabs, which often push wax deeper and risk injury to the eardrum. A safer, professional solution is microsuction. This gentle procedure uses a medical vacuum to safely and effectively remove excess wax under direct visualisation with a microscope, providing immediate relief without the risks associated with irrigation. Book in for a 20-minute appointment with us to clean out your ears before the holidays.
For those who rely on hearing aids, summer presents another challenge: moisture. Sweat, humidity, and accidental splashes are the enemies of delicate electronic components, potentially causing damage and affecting performance. Moisture can also affect sound quality – be sure your hearing aids are in top working condition leading into holiday social activities. We offer an in-office dehumidifying treatment with our specialised Redux system, which uses warm air and a vacuum to extract moisture deep within the device. Wireless earbuds can also be put in the instrument. Treatment takes about 10 minutes and gives a reading on how much moisture was removed. Pop into our clinic any time during business hours for this $25 treatment, all makes and models welcome!
Teresa Burns Hearing is a locally owned and operated, independent audiology clinic. Our audiologists, Teresa and Anne, both have Doctorate of Audiology degrees and each has 25+ years of experience. Book in or come by the clinic today to ensure your ears are summer-ready.
Friday draw
Club dinners
Quiz nights
Club Days
All ages welcome
Social and active memberships
Social committee
Time on your hands? Lots of opportunities to get involved
By Le Visage Skin Clinic. Milford’s trusted
Summer in Aotearoa is all about sunshine, salty air and being outdoors, but it’s also the season when pigmentation loves to make an appearance. Whether it’s freckles that suddenly multiply, patches of melasma that deepen, or uneven tone that feels more noticeable, pigmentation is one of the most common concerns we treat at Le Visage. So, what’s actually happening in the skin?
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation is caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment our skin naturally makes to protect itself from UV exposure. Melanin is produced by melanocyte cells, which sit deep in the epidermis. When they’re triggered by sunlight, heat, hormones or inflammation, they become more active.
How it travels to the surface
Think of pigmentation like tiny parcels of melanin that collect deep in the skin. Once produced, these parcels are transferred upward through your skin cell cycle. Over several weeks/ months/years, they reach the surface, appearing as dark spots, patches or general unevenness. This is why pigmentation often shows up after summer, even if you’ve been careful.
What we can do about it
Reducing pigmentation is absolutely possible, but it requires a combination of prevention, correction and consistency, especially through the warmer months.
1. SPF 365
Your daily non-negotiable. broad-spectrum SPF protects against UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays, preventing new pigment from forming. At Le Visage, every SPF we stock is TGA-approved and designed for daily wear.
2. Topical brightening serums
This is where the real groundwork begins. When used consistently, these serums help keep pigment formation under control and improve clarity.
• Ultraceuticals Ultra Brightening Serum uses powerful tyrosinase-inhibiting ingredients to help reduce excess pigment formation while brightening the overall skin tone.
• SkinBetter Science Even Tone Correcting Serum works beautifully for stubborn or hormonally driven pigmentation and is gentle enough for year-round use.
destination for pro-ageing skin treatments.
3. Targeted in-clinic treatments
Winter is traditionally the peak season for deeper pigment-removal treatments.
• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is our go-to modality for lifting visible sunspots, freckles, redness and mottled sun damage. It works best when UV levels are lower, and results can be transformational.
But summer doesn’t mean you can’t treat your skin. This is where gentle, intelligent, brightening treatments shine.
Our newest treatment is designed specifically to keep skin bright, clear and calm through the summer months without downtime. It features:
• The Ultraceuticals Brightening Peel (with lactic, mandelic and kojic acid)
• A boost of Ultra Brightening Serum
• A refining dose of Ultra A Perfecting Booster Serum
• LED light therapy
• A relaxing hand and arm massage. And because summer lips often become dry, tight and dehydrated, this facial also includes a hydrating and plumping lip treatment – a gentle lip exfoliation followed by a hyaluronic hydrogel lip mask, finished with a hyaluronic acid lip balm to leave lips soft, smooth and juicy.
*Normally $330, now $169 for a limited time.
It’s the perfect seasonal treatment for anyone wanting to maintain clarity, minimise pigment activation and keep their skin glowing all summer long.
For over a decade, Le Visage Skin Clinic has been Milford’s preferred destination for advanced pro-ageing treatments, including specialised pigmentation correction. We combine science-backed technologies with a personalised, caring approach to help every client feel confident in their skin, no matter their age or stage.
If pigmentation is on your mind this summer, we’re here to help guide you with honest advice, tailored plans, and resultsfocused care.
The team at Le Visage Level 1, 161 Kitchener Road, Milford 09 486 6880
levisage.co.nz instagram: le_visage_skin_clinic
Gemma Neuendorf’s journey to becoming a counsellor is shaped by a rich background in teaching and life experience that brings warmth, patience, and understanding to her work. Before counselling, Gemma spent years in education, where she learned firsthand about the complexities of family dynamics, diverse cultures, blended families, separations, and everyday stresses, all impacting children and parents in different ways.
“When I was a teacher, I heard parents talk about their challenges, from separations to job stress. It gave me an insight into what families are going through day-today,” Gemma explains. This insight guides her counselling practice, where cultural sensitivity and respect for every family and client’s unique story are central.
Gemma also credits her deep patience and empathy to her upbringing, especially growing up with an older sister who has a disability. “That experience taught me resilience and a real sense of empathy and responsibility, which has shaped not only my teaching and family life, but now also my counselling work with clients.”
For many, taking the step to see a counsellor can feel intimidating. Gemma makes this easier by creating a space that clients truly feel belongs to them. “It’s not about what makes me comfortable; it’s what makes the client comfortable. They can sit wherever they want, be themselves, even do a handstand if they like! The more authentic they are in the room, the better.”
Gemma sees herself as an “open book counsellor,” tailoring her approach to each client by mixing various counselling methods to meet their individual needs. “There’s no rigid structure,” she says. “Clients own the space, and I’m their teammate, walking alongside them in their journey.”
One story Gemma shares is especially inspiring: a young client struggling to leave their home and experiencing feelings of worthlessness reached out to Gemma while on a wait list elsewhere. Over time, through counselling and family involvement, this client began to regain hope. Their family, who desperately wanted to support them, also attended counselling sessions and learned tools and skills to take home, as well as how to address external agencies and organisations to get their child the best support they could. Over time, this client was able to leave the house, reconnect with their family, pursue an education, and even travel. They still regularly check back in with Gemma to give her a small life update. Gemma smiles, “Seeing someone go from that dark place to building a fulfilled life is what makes counselling so powerful, and ultimately the reason I keep doing this job!”
For those who are curious about counselling but unsure if it’s right for them, Gemma’s advice is simple: “Come and see me! It’s your story to tell, and the counsellor is just there to walk with you while you write it. If I’m not the right fit, there are many others. Don’t be afraid, give yourself the chance. It’s not as scary as you think.”
You can book an appointment with Gemma by visiting northspanwellbeing.org.nz
Northspan Wellbeing
400 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 419 9853
hello@northspanwellbeing.org.nz northspanwellbeing.org.nz instagram facebook and Linkedin: @northspanwellbeing
Northcote Takapuna Methodist Church
09 489 4590, office@takapunamethodist.org.nz, puriricentretakapuna.org.nz
Takapuna Methodist
The Puriri Centre, 427 Lake Road
Sunday 21 Dec: Fourth Sunday of Advent (Theme: Love), 10am
Christmas Day: Family Service, 9.30am
St Luke’s Methodist
16 Greenslade Cres, Northcote
Christmas Eve: Christmas Eve Service, 9pm Christmas Day: Family Service, 9.30am All welcome!
Joseph’s Church
10 Dominion Street, Takapuna, 09 489 6486, ea@stjoseph.org.nz, takapunacatholic.org.nz
Christmas Eve: 6pm, preceded by carols at 5.30pm
Midnight Mass: 12am, preceded by carols at 11.30pm
Christmas Day: Christmas Day Service, 7.30am and 10.30am, preceded by carols
New Year’s Eve: Mass, 10.30pm
New Year’s Day: Mass, 10.30am
St Vincent de Paul Church
Cnr Fenwick Ave and Shakespeare Rd, Milford
Christmas Eve: 6pm, preceded by carols at 5.30pm Christmas Day: Christmas Day Service, 9am
New Year’s Day: Mass, 9am
168 Lake Road, Belmont, belmontbaptistnz.org
Sunday 14 Dec: Carols on Westwell, 5.30pm
Christmas Day: 9.30am
90a Victoria Road, Devonport, connectchurchdevonport.co.nz
Sunday 21 Dec: Join us as we gather for our Christmas Celebration Service, 10am
2a Albert Road Devonport, 09 445 0078, office@devonportcatholic.org.nz, devonportcatholic.org.nz
Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass, 5.30pm, and Evening Mass, 9pm. Carols will start 30 mins prior to each of these services.
Christmas Day: Christmas Day Mass, 9.30am
Cnr Lake and Owens Roads, 09 445 6801, families@devonportmethodist.org.nz
Christmas Eve: A Kids’ Christmas, 4-5pm Perfect for preschool and primary kids and their families in the garden behind the church, inside if wet. Come on an adventure to get ready for Christmas. Join us for a sausage sizzle at the end.
Christmas Eve: Carols by Candlelight, 8pm Christmas Day: Christmas Breakfast, 8am. Join us for a special Christmas breakfast. To book a seat, email families@devonportmethodist.org.nz
Celebration Service, 9.15am
2, The Terrace, Takapuna (opposite Shore City Mall), 09 489 5689, office.stgeorges@xtra.co.nz, stgeorgestakapuna.com
Christmas carols, peace and hope!
You are warmly invited to join us for two special Christmas services, filled with music, hope and peace. Christmas Eve Night Service: Come and sing treasured carols together during this short, beautiful service. Doors open at 11pm with a time of musical reflection. The service starts at 11.15pm and concludes outside with a Christmas toast.
Christmas Day Service: Celebrate with us and sing a few more carols at our short morning service. Service starts at 9.30am.
All are welcome to fellowship in hope, peace, joy and love!
A remarkable piece of New Zealand’s history has just surfaced in Wellington: a rare ‘Resolution and Adventure’ medal dating back to 1772–73, linked to Captain James Cook’s second voyage to Aotearoa. These medals were originally presented and traded among Māori communities during Cook’s explorations, symbolising early encounters between European navigators and tangata whenua.
What makes this find extraordinary is its rarity. Fewer than a dozen examples have been unearthed across the country in the past two centuries, making this one of the most significant numismatic discoveries in New Zealand’s history.
Adding a strong North Shore connection to this national story, the medal was entrusted to Aventine Coins and Bullion, a Devonportbased numismatic firm renowned for its role in repatriating the first Reserve Bank of New Zealand banknote back to our shores. Aventine’s involvement highlights the depth of expertise found right here in our local community.
Fewer than a dozen examples have been unearthed across the country in the past two centuries…
Aaron Mackesy, recognised as a specialist authority on Resolution medals and one of only 15 government-licensed Taonga Tūturu dealers in New Zealand, described the find as "exceptional", noting the rare survival of its original suspension loop. He explained that its preservation was most likely the result of an incredibly fortunate combination of environmental conditions, given that the specific alloy used in its original manufacture was prone to decay.
For North Shore residents, this story is more than a fascinating
footnote in maritime history; it’s a reminder of how our local expertise contributes to safeguarding national heritage. Devonport, with its rich naval history and vibrant arts and heritage community, is an apt home for a firm playing a pivotal role in authenticating artefacts that connect us to our earliest cross-cultural encounters.
The medal will soon be donated to an appropriate New Zealand public institution, ensuring that this taonga remains accessible for future generations. Its journey, from Cook’s voyages to Māori hands, through centuries underground, and finally to authentication in Devonport, reflects the layered narratives that shape our identity as a nation.
Fun facts about Cook’s medals
• Why were they made? Cook commissioned these medals as diplomatic gifts to Māori and other Pacific peoples during his second voyage (1772–75).
• What do they show? One side features the bust of King George III; the other names Cook’s ships: 'Resolution' and 'Adventure'.
• How rare are they? Fewer than 12 have been found in New Zealand since the 1800s.
• Material matters: They were struck in brass, which corrodes easily, making intact examples extremely scarce.
• Historic purpose: These medals symbolised goodwill and alliance, marking some of the earliest European–Māori exchanges.
Aventine Coins and Bullion Coins | Banknotes | Gold & Silver Bullion Level 1, Unit D, 31 Bartley Terrace, Devonport sales@aventine.co.nz aventine.co.nz
Step inside Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar and it quickly becomes clear this is no ordinary wine bar. Nestled in the heart of Devonport, the space was previously a shoe shop for over 80 years, the shelves of which have been repurposed for wine shelving, and the wood panelling and brick exposed to create a cosy, distinctly European vibe.
Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar was set up to be a place where wine could be enjoyed without pretence. Harriet, Emile and the team love helping customers explore the wine list and seeing them try something new. The New Zealand wine industry has, in recent years, diversified into different grape varieties, with the high-quality wine produced in a number of regions increasingly finding export markets and adding to our sauvignon blanc success and reputation. “It seems a shame for the New Zealand public not to even see some of these wines, as we have some incredible wine-makers doing incredible things here,” says owner and wine enthusiast Harriet Shields. The team has cultivated close relationships with small producers, family-run vineyards and boutique wine-makers, many of them practising sustainable and organic methods. Knowledgeable staff can provide guidance for both the extensive glass pour offering and full bottle selections for drinking or taking away.
The bar itself is a delightful place to sit – inside with warm brick and shelves full of bottles to look at, or outside with its European-feeling courtyard tucked away from the noise of the street. The drinks menu not only offers customers a glass of wine from the ever-changing list (changed every couple of weeks to keep things interesting) but also flights of wine tastings, so you can compare varietals and explore nuances. There is even a Blind Wine Tasting Challenge, which invites players to guess different New Zealand grapes. This is a fun, lively experience that has already crowned five or six winners, with a new lineup of wines being introduced whenever someone cracks it. The drinks menu extends to beers on tap, cocktails and non-alcoholic selections.
Knowledgeable staff can provide guidance for both the extensive glass pour offering and full bottle selections for drinking or taking away.
Despite the size of the kitchen, the food menu is impressive. Plates are inspired by flavours of Spain and the Mediterranean and are designed to be enjoyed as nibbles or combined for a full meal. The dishes also change with the season – at the moment chef Paul has fresh asparagus and Curious Cropper heirloom tomato dishes on
the menu (with an amazingly creamy salted buffalo curd) alongside the firm favourites (baked brie with nectarines, smoked fish paté with pickles and meatballs with mozzarella). And with live music in the courtyard every Sunday afternoon – this is our pick for summer!
The space lends itself well to private functions, corporate events and Christmas parties with the option to book a table or take the whole space. They also cater for wine tastings for larger groups and can tailor these to suit a theme or interest.
Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar has established itself as a popular hangout for locals and a place where wine can be enjoyed in a relaxed environment. The combination of fun wine bar design, stories behind the wines, playful tastings, and excellent food makes it a venue that draws people back time and again.
So next time you’re in the neighbourhood, settle in for a glass, a tasting flight or a long lunch – your new favourite wine bar is ready to welcome you.
Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar
Open six days from midday for lunch and dinner
09 445 0194
vicroadwinebar.co.nz
By Aidan Bennett
Long-time North Shore resident and identity Rod Slater recently celebrated a milestone birthday. At his birthday event held at Olle Restaurant in Milford, family and friends celebrated Rod’s lifetime of achievements. By all accounts, it was a wonderful afternoon. One of his good mates, a mutual friend, told me about the birthday celebration and what he had discovered about Rod’s life achievements. I decided I had to do something for Channel Mag. I caught up with Rod Slater for a chat shortly after his birthday bash in November.
I have known Rod Slater myself for over 25 years, mainly through our mutual involvement with the North Harbour Club. He has also been involved in many other community initiatives where our paths have crossed.
Rod Slater spent his early years in the Mt Albert area. He attended Avondale College, leaving at 15 to work with his father, Des, in his Mt Albert butchers shop, which was located right next door to the family home. This started a career of 60 years in the meat industry.
Young Rod Slater was also keen on Rugby League, playing for the Mt Albert club to senior level. Rod says he was quick, but not big or hard enough. “I played mainly in the second row. I started off in the centres, but as I got slower, I went into the forwards. I loved League and ended up refereeing for many years.”
Rod Slater moved to the Shore when he
married Lesley, his wife of 55 years.
“We got married in 1970. Lesley was born in New Zealand but grew up in Australia. We saw the Shore going ahead. It was really opening up in those days, so we bought a section in Chatswood. That section cost $6,000. The house we built on it cost us $15,000!”
During his tenure as Beef and Lamb NZ CEO, Rod Slater was responsible for some of New Zealand’s most iconic campaigns and programmes.
By that stage, Rod had completed his butchery apprenticeship, done his ‘OE’, and owned his own butcher shop in New Lynn. He was commuting from Birkenhead to New Lynn for a six o’clock or earlier start.
During his career, Rod became known in the meat business for marketing and innovation. His next business move would have contributed in a big way to that skill set. Rod was an early business partner in The Mad Butcher business with probably New Zealand’s most famous butcher (and League fan), Sir Peter Leitch.
“Peter was already known as the man,” says Rod. “He had the shop in Mangere, Rosella Meats. Many will remember that he used to ring up the radio and banter with Geoff Sinclair and Tim Bickerstaff. They coined the phrase, ‘Here's that bloody mad butcher again’ – and the name stuck.
“During that time, he and I were involved in butchery politics. We were both on the board of the Auckland Master Butchers Association, so we got to know each other. Given his profile then I was keen for Peter to change the name of his business to The Mad Butcher which he eventually agreed to. We opened our first branded shop in Takapuna in 1981.
“Peter was a marketing genius. He didn't know how good he was, but he was brilliant. He did all the promotion. He had the ‘gift of the gab’, and radio announcers on all stations loved him. He was a pioneer. Nowadays, everybody's promoting their own business using themselves. He was one of the first to do that.”
Rod was in partnership with Sir Peter for many years. They grew to have four very good stores when Rod sold out in the early 90s. He then started another career adventure that he enjoyed immensely.
By this time, Rod and Lesley Slater had moved to a property at Holiday Road on Milford Beach and were bringing up a son (Daniel, now 49) and a daughter (Victoria, now 47). They then lived near the lake in Takapuna, then Bayswater and are now back in Takapuna.
“In 1993, I was asked to go into Beef and Lamb NZ, which was an industry group responsible for domestic promotion of beef and lamb. Membership is voluntary, and funding comes from New Zealand farmers, retailers and processors. The organisation represents the whole supply chain: farmers, processors, wholesalers and retailers. When I went in there, they really wanted me to close it down as it wasn’t financially sustainable; there were big issues and no money coming in! The longer I stayed there, the more I realised that there was a future for the organisation. What started as two weeks turned into 27 years!
“I was called in by the chairman of the organisation - they had some trouble with the CEO. And I said, 'Well, look, I'll give you two weeks. I'll go in and do it.' I wasn't doing anything. To be honest, I was looking for another business at the time.
“There was one challenge after another. What I found in the first week, when I went there to close it down, was that the phone didn’t stop ringing from sectors interested in the initiatives that the organisation had championed. I thought, well, you know, the industry thinks that we’re finished, but the consumer doesn't. So we came up with a scheme to seek industry support. I approached the Meat Board and did a deal with them that if I could raise one dollar out of the marketplace, they'd back it up with one dollar. Over the next 12 months, I went around the entire industry, and we got 100% commitment from all the meat producers in the country. I got $1.5 million out of the industry and the same out of the Meat Board - $3 million total. We were on our way.
During his tenure as Beef and Lamb NZ CEO, Rod Slater was responsible for some of New Zealand’s most iconic campaigns and programmes. This included the ‘Iron
Maidens’ campaign with Olympic athletes, including the Evers-Swindell twins, Sarah Ulmer, Lisa Carrington and Sarah Walker as 'Red Meat Ambassadors'. The campaigns with Ulmer and the Evers-Swindell sisters literally hit gold when they won gold medals at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Rod says there were two great spin-offs from the association with the athletes – young and successful athletic women representing New Zealand products to consumers, and farmers, butchers and meat workers identifying with the sports stars.
Another Rod Slater initiative has been ‘The Butcher's Challenge’. This started as a meat version of the Bledisloe Cup – New Zealand versus Australia – in butchery, and kicked off in Christchurch in 2011.
“I had this idea that we could have a side of beef, a whole lamb, a side of pork and some chickens, and give these competing teams a certain amount of time to turn that into a full window display,” explains Rod. “And the interest was unbelievable. It just caught on with social media. This has been held annually since 2011 and became the “World Butcher's Challenge” in 2015, with the most recent event held in Paris in the same auditorium as the Olympic weightlifting. They had 3000 people watching it, and 18 countries competed.”
At Rod Slater’s birthday event, Tanya Hart, who was Marketing Manager at Beef and Lamb NZ for 14 years, made mention of the ‘Quality Mark’ initiative he introduced.
“One of Rod's pioneering innovations was the introduction of the New Zealand Beef and Lamb Quality Mark back in 1997 – a groundbreaking programme that set rigorous standards for taste, safety, animal welfare and traceability. The 'Mark' assured consumers they were getting the best grass-fed, free-range New Zealand product,
debunking myths about 'export-only' quality and building trust in local supermarkets and butchers. Under Rod's guidance, it evolved into a symbol of excellence, with campaigns and retailer partnerships that boosted domestic sales and positioned our meat as world-class right here at home.”
Rod Slater won ‘The Christie Award’ – a lifetime achievement award in 2012. The award is presented to a member of the New Zealand meat industry who has contributed to the promotion, growth and strength of the New Zealand meat industry. The Christie Award is presented to those who stand at the pinnacle of the industry.
Rod’s standing on the world stage is very clear. An award has recently been established called ‘The Slater Award’. Named to honour Rod, this is an international award that will
be presented annually to acknowledge outstanding achievement globally in the industry.
While he loved running Beef and Lamb NZ, family has always been big for Rod Slater, as has giving back to many organisations over the years. This has included the meat industry, Murrays Bay Sailing Club, Waterwise, Rotary, Diabetes New Zealand and Yes Disability.
Rod had developed an interest in sailing from the age of 13 when his father, Des, bought him a P-Class. It is an interest he passed on to his son Daniel, who has gone on to forge a career in the sport as a top international sailor and now coach. On the Shore, they first sailed at Takapuna Boating Club (Bayswater) and then at the Murrays Bay Sailing Club. Rod has been on the committee, Commodore and is the current President, which he says is largely an honorary role. Yachting has subsequently taken Rod all over the world. He was the manager of the New Zealand Yachting Team at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1996.
“I learnt that Olympic sailing is very stressful. It’s not until you are in the middle of the Olympics that you realise how much pressure there is on the athletes. It's unbelievable, especially for the favourites for medals.”
He was also a respected yachting commentator for a period.
“That started when I used to call in and report on yachting events to Murray Deaker’s show on ZB on a Saturday. Deaks used to encourage clubs to ‘call in and promote your club’. So I did. I started ringing up on a Saturday, then on Sunday, covering what was happening at Murray's Bay with the racing. I got to know Peter Montgomery as he occasionally stood in for Murray. Then, when the America’s Cup was coming up in San Diego, I got a call one night at home. It was PJ inviting me to go up to San Diego and do the commentating on the radio. I only had to be asked once! As a result, I was probably the go-to guy for yachting on radio in New
Zealand for about seven or eight years on Newstalk ZB and a range of other stations. I enjoyed it immensely.”
Rod also did a stint of seven to eight years on the board of the Auckland Maritime Museum prior to it being amalgamated into Auckland Council.
When his kids were at school, he was also on the board of Waterwise North Shore, an organisation founded by his good friend, John Algie. Rod was involved when Waterwise North Shore built a training centre along with a wharf and jetty on the shores of Lake Pupuke. Primary and secondary school children are still taught how to sail and be ‘water-wise’ in this facility today. A highlight of that time was Prince Charles and Lady Diana coming to open the new facility during their visit in 1983. Rod’s job was to look after Lady Diana during that opening event.
Rod has been diabetic for close to 30 years. As is the Rod Slater way, he has contributed a great deal to the diabetes cause over the years. He says his challenge with diabetes began after the 1996 Olympics.
“During the Olympics, I remember the doctor of our team saying to me one day, 'Have you ever been tested for diabetes?' 'No. Why would I do that?' 'I think you should.' So when we came back to New Zealand, I had to do a full medical for a life insurance policy, and that's when it was picked up.
“I was approached around 10 years ago to go on the Auckland diabetes committee. I was hesitant, but I had a specialist who'd been really, really good to me, and I thought if I could give back a little bit, I could pay him back. So I said yes, and that's what happened. I have since joined the Diabetes New Zealand board."
With his yachting contacts, Rod Slater has organised three very successful diabetes fundraisers around the most recent America’s Cup events staged in New Zealand. There were lunches in 2018 and 2019 that each raised around $50,000. The highlight was a third event involving Sir Ben Ainsley, Dean Barker and Jimmy Spittle, which raised over $500,000.
“We couldn’t get access to Team New Zealand, so we called on the challengers – three fantastic guys. Jimmy is one of the most outstanding humans I've ever dealt with. He couldn't do enough. The dinner was held at Shed 10 and ended up raising half a million dollars.”
As a member of Takapuna North Rotary for 15 years, Rod has been involved in many community initiatives. He says he made many lifelong friends through Rotary, and the community projects have been hugely rewarding. One that stands out is the Yes Disability Centre.
“Hugh Stedman and Dave Purdy put the hard word on me to take on the Yes Disability Centre project. I said no at first, then they talked me into it. The challenge was to find $3 million to fund their new building in Albany.”
Rod was the chair of Yes Disability Centre for 10 years and says the big breakthrough came when a young guy called Cam Calkoen got involved.
“Someone said there's this guy with cerebral palsy - he speaks brilliantly - so we approached him, and I can recall, we applied to the ASB Trust for $1 million. We had to go and present to them. Cam came along, I made my speech, and the board was as cold as buggery. Then Cam got up and just had them eating out of his hand, due to the way he delivered his speech. Within a week, we had $1 million!”
Rod has twice been awarded by Rotary as a ‘Paul Harris Fellow’, for services to the community.
Rod Slater retired from Beef and Lamb NZ in 2020. Family remains a big part of his and Lesley’s life. They have four grandkids who are growing up fast. They’ve had a family bach at Te Ngaere Bay in the Far North since 1998, which they escape to as much as they can. He currently serves as Chairman for the National Party North Shore Electorate.
Rod has been a busy boy. We love celebrating Shore people like Rod Slater!
WEB DEVELOPMENT
DISPLAY & EXHIBITION DESIGN
SIGNAGE
OUTSIDE THE SQUARE PROJECTS
We call it Future Thinking.
At Benefitz we are constantly innovating and investing to ensure we have the most versatile visual communications toolkit in New Zealand. Our state-of-the-art resource means we can usually deliver even if the request is outside of the box.
In fact we love those interesting and challenging projects.
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE...
66 Barry’s Point Rd, Takapuna 0622 | 09 486 0141 info@cryohealthsolutions.com cryohealthsolutions.com | @cryohealthnz
Gentle Waves, based at 65 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna, was founded by two lifelong friends, Erica and Summer, who share a deep love for animals and understand the heartbreak of losing them.
As pet owners themselves, they’ve experienced the joy pets bring and the pain of saying goodbye. From their personal journeys, Gentle Waves was born, with a simple mission: to provide families from the North Shore and Auckland-wide with a farewell service that reflects the love, dignity, and respect their companions deserve. Erica and Summer explain, "We combine compassion with care, creating a place where pets are honoured as family and their memories are cherished." Offering private cremations, personalised pet farewells, and a beautiful range of handcrafted urns and keepsakes, Erica and Summer support and care for their guests with compassion, respect and dignity, every step of the way.
What is Gentle Waves?
Gentle Waves is a local end-of-life and water-based cremation service for pets that helps families say goodbye to their beloved pets in the most gentle and respectful way. As the North Shore and Auckland region's first water cremation service, Erica and Summer are pioneering a water-based process that's gentler not only on the animals themselves, but also the planet.
What is water cremation?
Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or Aquamation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. It uses a gentle, water-based process to return the body to its natural elements.
The benefits
• 90% less energy is used than flame cremation;
• 5% fewer carbon emissions;
• No harmful gases or smoke are released;
• Clean, natural ashes are returned;
• Flame-free, gentle process.
Why choose Gentle Waves?
• Complete end-of-life care package options.
• Private farewell room.
• Personalised memorial options.
• Real-time updates and direct communication.
• Free pick-up within 10km.
• Afterpay options.
• 1% of every sale supports canine cancer research.
Testimonial
"Six days ago, we lost our much-loved Skitty Cat at the age of 16. Following his passing early on Sunday morning, Summer collected him at lunchtime and prepared a beautiful memorial service the following day. The grief was (and remains) raw and distressing. Heartfelt thanks to Erica and Summer for their kindness and compassion. Today, Skitty was returned to us with a lovely sympathy card, framed photo and paw print, which now has pride of place in our home. We want to say thank you so much for your care of Skitty and the kindness you showed us. Igor, Wayne and Skitty." – Igor J.
Gentle Waves - Pet Water Cremation
A farewell as gentle as your love.
65 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 020 4010 7800 and 020 4010 5891 info@gentlewaves.co.nz, gentlewaves.co.nz facebook instagram: gentlewaves_nz
Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm; Saturday and Sunday: 10am-3pm
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
As the 2025 market draws to a close, many homeowners are already looking ahead and asking the big question: Is early 2026 the right time to sell? For many, the answer is shaping up to be a confident yes.
Across Auckland’s North Shore, we’re seeing clear signals that the first quarter of 2026 could offer a sweet spot for vendors. Interest rates are expected to stabilise, and buyer enquiries have been steadily strengthening. Combined with limited quality stock coming to market, well-presented homes are likely to stand out and achieve premium attention and price.
If you’re considering selling, now is the perfect time to begin preparing. Early planning allows time for pre-sale maintenance, staging ideas, and strategic timing around the key buyer surge that traditionally starts from late January and builds through March. Vendors who map out their campaign early often secure the advantage – launching ahead of competing listings and attracting serious buyers motivated to make a move before winter.
Engaging an agent early also gives you a clearer read on where your property sits in the current market landscape and what small improvements could significantly elevate your final price.
Early planning allows time for presale maintenance, staging ideas, and strategic timing around the key buyer surge that traditionally starts from late January and builds through March.
A final note for 2025
This being my final commentary for the year, I want to extend heartfelt thanks and warm wishes to all my past, present and future vendors. Your trust, conversations, and support throughout 2025 have been truly appreciated. I look forward to sharing with you another dynamic year of real estate in 2026. Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season and a successful year ahead.
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
Tabitha Coleman, General Manager
Devonport Business Association
After the festive flurry of Christmas, summer settles over Devonport in that effortless way only our village can offer. Warm evenings, kids biking to the beach, cafés spilling onto the footpath, and a community that genuinely feels alive. It’s one of the best times of year to be here – and this season brings an outstanding line-up of events on our waterfront.
Here’s what’s coming up this summer, with many of these events taking place at, or finishing in, Windsor Reserve, so expect plenty of activity and energy throughout the village.
Harcourts Cooper & Co Run Devonport, Sunday 18 January 2026, Navy fields, Ngataringa Bay
Start your year with a classic Devonport summer run along the water. Choose from 5km, 10km or 15km distances (walk or run), along with a fun 2km option for kids. Every finisher receives an exclusive medal, and as part of the North Shore Run Series, it’s a brilliant way to ease into the new year feeling active and outdoors.
NZHL XRace Devonport, Sunday 25 January 2026, Windsor Reserve
A favourite for families, XRace pairs parents and kids as they take on mystery challenges and compulsory tasks across a short course. Nippers (under 6) start at 9.30 am. Main event starts at 10.00 am. Prizegiving is around midday. Teams collect their t-shirts, transponders and challenge cards 90 minutes before starting. It’s a lively, colourful morning with plenty of teamwork, problem-solving and laughs.
Sunsetter Festival, Saturday 31 January 2026, Windsor Reserve
After a spectacular 2025 debut, Sunsetter returns to transform Devonport’s waterfront into a boutique summer festival. Expect world-class music, fine wine, craft beer, creative cocktails and delicious food from some of Auckland’s top eateries. With local and international acts, vibrant performers and the harbour setting, it promises to be a major highlight of the summer.
The New Zealand Coastal Challenge, Saturday 14 February 2026, finishing at Windsor Reserve
Now in its twenty-fourth year, the Coastal Challenge remains one of Aotearoa’s most scenic endurance events. Participants can choose from a friendly 6km walk right through to a full 33km coastal adventure along the North Shore. Every entrant receives a finisher’s medal, and watching competitors arrive into Windsor Reserve after tracing the coastline is always an inspiring sight.
Summer is when Devonport truly shines – and this year’s line-up is one of the best reasons to stay local, bring friends over on the ferry or simply explore the village. Beyond Christmas, think Devonport for your summer plans.
You can find all upcoming local events at devonport.co.nz.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and Director at Lake Road Electrical
As Kiwis gear up for another classic Kiwi summer - think backyard bbqs, beach days, and Christmas lights twinkling under the pōhutukawa - it’s also the time to make sure your home’s electrical setup is ready for the season.
At Lake Road Electrical, we see plenty of callouts over the summer months, from overloaded power boards to dodgy outdoor plugs. With all the gadgets, decorations and gatherings, it’s easy for your home’s electrical system to be pushed to its limit.
Start with your festive lighting. Check that your Christmas lights are rated for outdoor use if you’re hanging them outside, and make sure cords and plugs aren’t frayed or cracked. Avoid running extension leads through doors or windows where they can get pinched or damaged, and always switch lights off before heading to bed.
If you’re setting up outdoor entertaining areas, now’s the time to make sure your power outlets are weatherproof and your lighting is up to scratch. Installing sensor lights or LED strips around decks and patios not only adds atmosphere but also improves safety when guests are coming and going.
Heading away over the holidays? Switch off non-essential appliances, check your smoke alarms, and consider a timer or smart plug for security lighting to keep things safe while you’re away. This summer, keep things bright, festive and safe.
For help with your holiday lighting or outdoor electrical setup, get in touch with Lake Road Electrical – your local Master Electricians.
Lewis Rudall
- your
North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.
Native plants which are adapted to New Zealand’s unique climate can be a great choice for a hardier, more easy-care garden. These are plants that have evolved in New Zealand’s unique climate and so are much more resilient to our weather.
Grasses and flaxes, for example, tend to be very resilient to drought, and there is now a huge choice in colour and size, from deep purples, reds, and browns, to more vibrant greens, yellows, silvers and even pinks.
There is a great variety of hardy shrubs with colourful foliage or flowers, plants such as hebes, coprosma, renga renga, and liibertia.
If you want trees with flowers, there are a variety of colours available in different manuka and kowhai trees, while for statement trees and shrubs its hard to beat the nikau palm, puka and cabbage tree (ti kouka) for their unmistakable silhouettes.
For hedging, my personal favourite is the titoki, which looks fantastic when pleached, although five finger, coprosma, and akeake, also make great hedging options.
Whatever you choose, it’s important to give your plants the best start you can. “It’s better to dig a five-dollar hole for a fifty-cent plant than to dig a fifty-cent hole for a five-dollar plant” goes the old garden adage and it is true, struggling plant will thrive in good soil, while even a thriving plant will struggle in poor soil.
When planting, dig a hole roughly twice the size of the pot the plant is currently in. This is especially important when planting in clay as it is a lot tougher for roots to work through, and add plenty of quality planting mix and compost. A bit of gypsum in the bottom is helpful if it is heavy clay. While you're digging, it's good to have the plant soaking in a seaweed tonic mixture; this helps protect the roots against transplant shock. Make sure to water everything in well once you have finished planting to ensure the soil packs tightly around the plant’s roots.
Amanda Graham
Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz
Our annual Premier Awards evening honours Rangitoto College's most distinguished students of 2025. This special Year 13 awards ceremony wasn't just about recognising the outstanding hard work and dedication of these young adults – it is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate their parents, caregivers, teachers, and the supportive community that has championed their success.
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 Dux recipients.
Our NCEA Dux for 2025 is Michael Yang; a student who has consistently proven to be an academic powerhouse. His achievement is a testament to his quiet, humble dedication and exceptionally talented approach to learning.
Our International Baccalaureate Dux for 2025 is Youran (Yolanda) Zhang, whose phenomenal work has already earned her a reputation for possessing university-level quality in writing, referencing, and critical analysis.
We applaud these two phenomenal students, along with the following recipients of our top prestigious awards:
• Sir John Allum General Excellence Trophy - Eliana Heard
• Proxime Accessit - Elena Lim
• International Baccalaureate Proxime Accessit - Cael Guo Sia
• Summa Cum Laude (Awarded to students with the highest academic excellence) – Chaei Kawk, Sofia Malveda, Yunseo Kim, Xingyi (Ellis) Luo, Jiasheng (Jason) Luo, Chloe Seo, Eric Zhu, Jasmine Liu, Xinyue (Aria) Hua, Eliana Heard, Carly Fear, Taein Jung, Luke Burkett.
• International Baccalaureate Summa Cum Laude – Joshua Lo, Mary Haddad, Daniel Wei
• Summit Cup for Wider Contribution to the College – Olivia Taylor
• Allan Peachey Cup for Leadership – Nyla Spencer
• Frank Tucker Trophy for Service – Lucas Wang
We wish all our graduates the very best and success in their exciting future endeavours.
It is with sincere gratitude and a touch of sadness that we announce the departure of our esteemed principal, Mr. Patrick Gale.
Mr. Gale has been a pivotal figure at Rangitoto College for the past eight years, guiding our community through numerous triumphs and challenges. Staff, students, and the wider college community have all been privileged to benefit from his dedicated leadership
and insightful guidance throughout the past decade.
We are delighted, however, to share that Mr. Gale has accepted the prestigious appointment of Headmaster at King's College, a role he is eminently qualified for and truly deserves.
We extend our deepest appreciation for his service and wish him every success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter.
The heart of our campus has gained a powerful new focal point: E Tipu e Rea (Grow and Flourish), our new statue, now stands proudly beneath the sweeping canopy of the pōhutukawa in the main bus bay. This sculpture is a testament to the unwavering spirit of collaboration that defines our school community.
The original idea, created by student Michael (Mikey) Te Paa, was brought into the digital realm by artist Ruben Jooste, who transformed the initial concept into a finished design, with technical assistance from Ben Pollard. The resulting sculpture perfectly captures the meaning of its title: a call to every student to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
This installation is a legacy project, illustrating the deep value we place on partnership and cultural connection. We extend our gratitude to our dedicated staff for their tireless work in supporting and championing this initiative. It is a symbol of partnership, a celebration of student creativity, and a perpetual reminder to Grow and Flourish.
Kristin's Senior School Prizegiving provided an opportunity to honour outstanding student achievements from throughout the year. Among the many academic awards handed out are our Prestige Awards, which recognise excellence among Senior School students. This year's winners were:
• Foundation Cup: Zaid Al-Sakini
• Stevens Award (NCEA Dux): Clementine Kirby
• Claudia Wysocki Memorial Trophy (IB Dux): Won Kim
• Gifford Shield: Cecilia Lin
• Sir Denis Blundell Trophy: Grace Luvale
• Appreciation Cup: Sebastian Stichbury
• The Anna Fuller Trophy: Sylvie Macfarlane
• Amos Cup (for Head Boy): Jayden Wang
• Wright Cup (for Head Girl): Cecilia Lin
Congratulations to all of our winners.
Congratulations to this year's winners.
After our end-of-year Senior School Prizegiving, Kristin carried on with one of our cherished traditions: the Graduation Walk. This momentous event honours our departing Year 13 students as they take a lap around the school, greeted by a guard of honour consisting of students from all year groups, staff, family and friends. This experience is always a very wholehearted and emotional farewell as these students move on from Kristin life to embark on the next chapter of their lives. We wish our Class of 2025 all the best for their future endeavours.
What started as a Year 6 exhibition project for now Year 12 student Klara Collett has now grown into one of Kristin’s most impactful service initiatives. Since 2019, this initiative has brought smiles to over 5,000 tamariki in care across Auckland, and over $46,000 has been raised externally. This year, the drive will bring Christmas joy to at least 1,500 tamariki across eight Oranga Tamariki sites in Auckland.
This year, we introduced the theme of ‘Children Giving To Children,’ highlighting the significance of establishing a heartfelt connection between Kristin students and children in foster care. Demand surged in
2025, reflecting the growing challenges families are facing and the strain this places on family units. The number of children in foster care is at record levels, and the need and purpose have never been greater.
As the presents poured in from the community, the Kristin Chapel turned into Santa’s workshop, with students from leadership teams across the entire school getting involved in the wrapping process. Social workers and staff from Oranga Tamariki also came to help prepare and wrap gifts, which was a special opportunity for our students, who were able to learn more about the foster care system and the background stories of the children for whom they were
wrapping presents. The students took a lot of time learning about the child and their interests, and then matched them with the perfect items. Many commented on how it helped them understand even more why this Christmas drive is so important, and learned that without our presents, these children would receive nothing on Christmas Day.
We would like to thank the many members of the Kristin community and organisations involved for their generosity. This not only demonstrates your power and caring nature but also how profoundly we can transform the lives of others when we come together for a common cause. Merry Christmas, everyone!
By Billy Brown
December and January in Aotearoa are different from the other months of the year; it’s more than just the end of the school year and kicking back. It’s a mix of all the mad scrambles to get everything sorted before the holiday season, paired with wondering what the date actually is as the days roll by into endless sunkissed afternoons. For so many reasons, December and January in Aotearoa feel different from the rest of the year. It’s also the season that reminds us it’s all about the people.
Regardless of your definition of what family is, Christmas brings out whatever family means for you. Perhaps it's the people in your family that you get to spend Christmas with, who are the ones you meet only once every year. Perhaps it is your chosen family, the people who accept you for who you are. December is the time of the year that we are all reminded to stop and take notice of them.
Traditions throughout the summer make life easier. Each year, the whole family might go on an adventure to the beach, where inevitably the best games of backyard cricket are held, eventually winding down in arguments over whether the batsman was out. Road trips where singing off-key is drowned out by the music playing during day-long or late-night drives. It is the small things, like making yummy platters of food, wrapping presents at the very last minute, or lounging on the couch after a long, hot day, that make the memories you hold dear.
It’s easy to get consumed by the stress that life brings us every year through work and school. So much taken in, in such a short period of time, that we forget the significance of the years we are living. Our reset button is the summer. It’s the season that brings us the opportunity to take a moment to pause and
take notice of the people who stood by us in all the hardest moments. To spend time with the people we love is the best reward we could ask for in a world that is already too busy. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that summer is the best time of the year. Christmas can also be very stressful. It’s not always simple being members of the same family. Not all the traditions work out the way we want them to; time schedules conflict, and moods can sometimes soar along with the rising temperatures. Yet the season encourages us to get in touch and find the moments with the ones we are most connected to.
Take time out for people who are significant to you during the summer: organise a barbecue for your friends, head to the beach along with your brothers and sisters; make space for some fun-packed time with your grandparents,
send a message to a friend who’s been on your mind who you haven’t seen in ages. Feel free to make plans. Stick to them. Or, in fact, since the summer season is all about being free and relaxed, reschedule plans without feeling the least bit guilty.
Because you won’t remember the beautifully boxed presents or the perfect sunsets for the years to come. It will be the warm sand in your toes, the late-night conversations, the laughter that hurts your stomach, and the quiet feeling of being together that you will remember. January and December remind us that we are not supposed to go through life alone. It’s supposed to be in every moment that we bring each other closer together. It’s supposed to happen in the warm feeling of the summer night or in the loud, chaotic feeling of Christmas.
That’s the magic of the season. Enjoy it!
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.
Senior Musicianship Cup: Romy Lee
Junior Musician Cup: Zoe Gan
Outstanding Contribution to Music Cup (Senior): Helena Lee
Outstanding Contribution to Music Cup (Junior): Amelia Devlin
Chelsea Devine Cup: Amber Lee
Liturgical Music Cup: Yoana Ho
Spirit of Carmel Music Cup: Helena Lee
On Friday, 14 November, we celebrated academic achievement and leadership at our Senior Prizegiving. Headmaster Mr Paul Fordham reflected on his first year leading “New Zealand’s best school” where we excelled in the classroom, on the sports fields and on stage.
He also thanked Associate Principal Mrs Becky O’Gram for her significant contributions before she leaves for a teaching fellow role.
"We're losing one of our best," he said. "Throughout her time at Westlake, she's been someone others have turned to for advice. She is one in a million."
Board chair Mr Paul Mahan spoke about the proud legacy of Westlake Boys, highlighting the leadership qualities of Headmaster Mr Fordham – the first Westlaker to hold the position. He also congratulated our prizewinners for their hard work and commitment, saying: “You are showing your peers and those still to
come what it means to lead, to persevere, and to grow.” In closing, he added: “As we honour achievement, let us also celebrate not just what we’ve done, but who we’re becoming, because that, to me, is the true legacy of Westlake Boys High School.”
Congratulations to all our senior prizewinners and prefects named for 2026. The top awards went to:
• Jack Freeman – Te Taonga Peri Award
• Ray Dutt – Award for Special Endeavour
• Matt Donaldson – Pursuit of Excellence Award for Cultural Activities
• Travis Findlay – Memorial Award
• Aaron Shi – Award for contribution to and advancement of school culture
• Aryan Thakkar – Memorial Award for Effort, Involvement and Loyalty
• Constantine Mataafa – Award for Outstanding and Selfless Contribution to Westlake Boys High School
• Jason Tao – 1st in Year 13
On Thursday, 23 October we celebrated our annual Sports Awards Dinner. A huge thank you to all our sportsmen, parents, staff, coaches, sponsors, and supporters who helped us mark another outstanding year of Westlake Boys sport. We were privileged to have Westlaker Jack Salt (class of 2013) as our special guest. Jack won the NCAA Division 1 Basketball Championship in 2019 with the University of Virginia.
He spoke about “staying in the fight”, resilience, and overcoming adversity. He also highlighted powerful stories of the challenges he faced (including receiving death threats) and the hard work that helped
his team win a national championship. Congratulations to all our individual award winners and Year 13 Colours recipients.
2025 Sports Awards
• Jack Buckley (rowing) Sportsman of the Year
• Senior Eight Rowing - Team of the Year
• Andy Hay (rowing) - Coach of the Year
• Ollie Davies (cricket and rugby) Top Allrounder
• Tanner Kusch (hockey) Sportsmanship
• Dylan Henderson Attitude and Sportsmanship
As 2025 draws to a close, we celebrate an extraordinary year at Westlake Boys High School. Early in the year, we celebrated an extraordinary academic achievement: 312 scholarships, including 42 at Outstanding level. This is a record for Westlake Boys. Among these, Thomas Raybould stood out with seven scholarships, five of them Outstanding.
In sport, Westlake Boys was named the country’s top sporting school by the New Zealand Herald. We claimed the Maadi Cup in rowing for the first time in 41 years, and our premier basketball, rugby, football, and hockey teams all finished in the national top four. We also secured national titles in distance running, cycling, and sailing.
The arts flourished, too. We staged two major productions, including 'Mamma Mia!', which played to sold-out audiences, and Nicau Alexander earned the Best Male Lead award at the Auckland Live Showdown Awards for his role in 'Three Birds Alighting on a Field'. Our music faculty won three of six national awards at The Big Sing, while our instrumental groups shone at the KBB Music Festival.
These achievements are made possible through the support of our commercial partners and community trusts. We extend our gratitude to SAS Sport, North Shore Toyota, Archibald & Shorter North Shore, Shakespeare Orthodontics, Flooring Xtra North Shore, Oceanbridge Shipping, Exedy,
Sportsman of the Year Finalists
• Cooper Richardson - BMX,
• Harry Shannon - Cycling,
• Rajat Rai - Golf,
• Taiga Stenton – Gymnastics.
Team Roberts, Mytona, Barfoot & Thompson Milford, Shore Legal, Vitamin C Lipo-Sachets, Cricket Express, and Just Hockey. We’re looking forward to another great year in 2026.
It was a fantastic night celebrating the academic excellence and commitment of senior students at the Rosmini College 2025 Academic Prizegiving. The event was filled with talent, featuring performances by the kapa haka group, chamber choir, orchestra, and a solo by Karl Castro. Head Boy Joseph Wolfkamp gave an inspiring speech and Benji Bryce led the school prayer in te reo.
As was the case in 2024, several students achieved excellence across all subjects. Therefore, the 2025 Dux and Proxime Accessit cannot be named yet, but they will be announced once final exam results are in. Special Awards went to:
• Pasifika Leadership: Nathan Tofilau
• Maori Leadership: Benji Bryce
• Head Boy’s Prize: Joseph Wolfkamp
• Headmaster’s Award: Toby Morgan
• North Shore MP’s Excellence Award: Jairus Joseph
• Milne Bland Award for Work in Social Justice: Joseph Wolfkamp
• Antonio Rosmini Cup for Catholic Character: Rafael Austria
• May Gore Cup for Dependability in the College: Coen Tyler
• John Stevenson Memorial Cup for Determination: Chris Huang
• Catcheside Memorial for Involvement and Responsibility in the College: Anthony Angelo
The Rosmini Pasifika Parents Komiti hosted the Pasifika End of Year Celebration and Awards Evening to celebrate the academic, sporting, artistic, and character achievements of Rosmini’s Pasifika students, and to farewell the Year 13 cohort. Guests heard from Pasifika student leader Nathan Tofilau, Old Boy and MC Lui Poe, and guest speaker Inspector Sila Fagaesea Siaki – a proud Samoan leader with over 25 years in public service.
Following a delicious buffet dinner, the evening featured a lively Samoan Fa'ataupati, an emotional school haka for the departing students, and the presentation of awards. Congratulations to the special award winners:
• Pereira Stewart Cup for Leadership: Nathan Tofilau
• Selani Poe Cup for Service to the Community: Jeremiah Afu
• Arts Fusion Cup for Achievement in the Arts: Patrick Lemeki
Rosmini College celebrated its athletes at the annual Senior Sports Awards. The evening's theme, "Honouring everybody who wore the Crest on their Chest", was a tribute to every student who participated in 2025, as well as the dedication of coaches, managers, volunteers, sponsors, medical staff, and supportive parents.
The ceremony also highlighted specific major achievements, including Sporting Performance of the Year, which went to the Junior Rugby 7s Team that won the North Harbour Junior 7s Shield for the first time since 2012 by defeating Westlake in the final. The two main individual awards went to:
Sportsman of the Year: Matthew Dalton, who was honoured for representing premier basketball for three consecutive years, including his debut this year for the Auckland Men’s Tuatara National Basketball League team. Mattie also served as the college's dedicated Sports Captain in 2025, and picked up the Basketball Premier Player of the Year trophy.
Junior Sportsman of the Year: Sebastian Unga (Year 9) was recognised for outstanding success across basketball, volleyball, tag, and rugby.
Head Boy Joseph Wolfkamp and Deputy Head Boy Te Wharekōkōwai Pāora-Chamberlin each picked up a number of awards
• Chris Ireland Cup for Outstanding School Spirit: Benji Bryce
• Pasifika Academic Award: Lachlan McDougall
• Maori Academic Achievement Prize: Te Wharekōkōwai Pāora-Chamberlin
See the full list of winners and photos at rosmini.school.nz/news
• Rudi Wulf Cup for Most Promising Sportsman: Nathan Tofilau
• Dr Laupepa Va’a Award for Academic Endeavours Across the Curriculum: Lachlan McDougall
The Rosmini Junior Premier volleyball team has had a stellar season, with consistent highlevel performance in recent competitions.
In the Harbour Super League, the team had an excellent run, finishing in second place out of 26 teams and earning the silver medal.
This was followed by the bronze medal at the highly competitive Auckland championships, where they competed against 48 teams. Their medal run included a tight three-set semi-final loss, but they displayed determination in the third-place playoff, defeating Rangitoto College to secure the bronze. Congratulations to Miguel Castro and Tate Sun for making the tournament team. The North Island Championships represented a significant step up in competition, competing against 54 teams from Australia and New Zealand. The team played some of their best volleyball, eventually finishing in fifth place overall.
The Class of 2025 has signed off their secondary education with a formal graduation ceremony at the Bruce Mason Centre. A total of 354 Year 13 students proudly crossed the stage to receive their certificates, marking the culmination of years of dedication and achievement. We are pleased to highlight some of this year’s most outstanding award recipients and acknowledge this year’s hardworking Head Boy, Head Girl and deputies:
In the visual arts at Westlake Girls High School, it’s been a year of imagination, experimentation, and confidence in 2025. The senior exhibitions displayed a remarkable range of media, from painting, photography, and sculpture to digital and mixed-media works, all demonstrating technical skill and thoughtful reflection.
For our Year 13 students, these final portfolios marked the culmination of years of artistic development. Teachers in the visual arts faculty encourage strong foundations while supporting students to take creative risks, express their ideas and explore complex themes. Across our specialist studios, young artists examined subjects such as identity, environment and transformation, producing work that was both refined and deeply personal.
A distinctive feature of the programme is its connection of art-making to the world beyond the classroom. In August, students visited Bastion Point Reserve, 'The Lighthouse' by Michael Parekowhai on Queens Wharf, Lisa Reihana’s digital installation 'Māramatanga' at the University of Auckland, and the Auckland Art Gallery’s 'A Century of Modern Art' exhibition. Seeing artworks in context helped students understand how artists communicate ideas through place, culture and time.
For a select group of students, that connection extended across the Pacific. Over 13 unforgettable days, 21 students and three teachers travelled through New York City and Los Angeles on a visual art and art history tour. From Times Square and Central Park to the masterpieces of MoMA and the Met, students encountered works by Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Monet, Kehinde Wiley, Judy Chicago and Amy Sherald. Their sketchbooks filled with new ideas, and every gallery visit sparked lively discussion.
In Los Angeles, the pace changed, but the curiosity didn’t. Students visited UCLA and the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena to explore future study options, and discovered cultural landmarks including Olvera Street, Chinatown and the Grand Central Market. At The Getty Center, they reflected on the relationship between art and place, and in Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Room, they experienced the immersive power of contemporary installation art.
“This trip was truly life-changing,” said trip leader Elyse Heslop. “The students were an exceptional group – curious, kind, open-minded and full of creative spirit. Their willingness to embrace each moment and support one another made the journey even more memorable.”
This year, our Year 10 art students created an installation for the NZ Sculpture Onshore exhibition. Our students collaboratively created an installation titled 'Kaimoana Relics' – a collection of organic papier-mâché forms. We are thrilled to say that their work received the High School Award!
From the walls of our own galleries to those of New York and Los Angeles, this has been a year defined by exploration, collaboration and inspiration. Westlake’s young artists continue to demonstrate that creativity thrives when curiosity, skill and courage come together.
For our Year 13 students, these final portfolios marked the culmination of years of artistic development.
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.
Sam and Anna had been together for a couple of years. Anna was pregnant with their first child, which they were both excited about. Sam also had two young children from his previous marriage. His separation had been messy, with lots of fighting over who had the children, and a lengthy property settlement, which required Sam to apply to the Court to resolve matters. Now that was behind them, Sam and Anna were looking forward to spending more time with Sam’s children and preparing for the arrival of their first baby together.
Using the proceeds from his matrimonial settlement, Sam had purchased a home which he and Anna were now living in. Anna had some money saved and she was looking at using that to buy into the property and help reduce the mortgage. They were also going to do a contracting out agreement at the same time to recognise Sam’s greater contribution to the purchase of the property, as well as the value of the shares in his business.
after he separated from his wife, his enduring powers of attorney had never been updated, and his ex-wife was still his attorney.
However, biking home from work one evening, Sam hit a pothole on the road, was thrown over the handlebars, where he landed on his head, knocking him unconscious. His head injury was severe, and the recovery time was unknown. The doctors said that they would keep Sam in an induced coma to allow the swelling to come down and to give his brain and body time to heal. They warned Anna that when he did come out of the coma it might take a long time before he would be able to regain full functionality.
… his enduring powers of attorney had never been updated, and his ex-wife was still his attorney.
The doctors asked Anna if Sam had enduring powers of attorney in place. Anna wasn’t sure but knew that was one of the things that she and Sam were going to sort when they went to the lawyers regarding her buying into the family home. A very distraught Anna rang the lawyers to find out. It turned out that while Sam had changed his will
Anna didn’t know what to do. The implication was that Sam’s exwife was now able to appoint herself as a director of the company. Anna also felt very vulnerable as it also meant that Sam’s ex-wife had decision making powers in relation to the family home. She also had access to all of Sam’s bank accounts. The powers of attorney had stated that she was able to benefit herself from Sam’s funds as they had been done when they were still married. This left Anna in a very precarious position.
Having enduring powers of attorney in place is incredibly important. Even if you have them, it is important to review them at regular intervals ensure your wishes are carried out exactly as you intend. Especially if you have changes in your circumstances – in particular a separation or death of a partner.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.
If you have a will, but not assigned anyone to act as your Enduring Power of Attorney, you could inadvertently be putting your assets at risk.
An Enduring Power of Attorney will look after both your property and personal care and welfare should you become incapacitated to make your own decisions while you’re still alive.
If you have not put in place an Enduring Power of Attorney, contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist advice.
North Shore and New Zealand-owned and operated company Brosnan took home three major wins at the Australasian Concrete Repair and Remedial Building Association (ACRA) Awards held in Sydney, Australia in October.
As the only New Zealand company represented at the awards, Brosnan stood out among fierce competition from the Australian remedial building industry.
The company’s work on the $160 million Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort project earned top honours in both the Multi-Residential Building and Mega Project ($10 million+) categories, as well as the coveted Michael Rutherford ACRA
Remedial Building Excellence Award for overall winner.
Brosnan’s team delivered a complex remediation of the 161-room lakefront apartment and hotel complex, overcoming alpine conditions, live hotel operations, and a challenging scope. The project included expert witness investigations, concrete repairs, waterproofing, structural strengthening, and full refurbishments.
“These awards truly mean a lot to us at Brosnan,” said Geoff Nash, Brosnan’s CEO and North Shore local. “It’s been a privilege to be here alongside our peers and be recognised for the unique work we do in the remedial sector that often goes unseen within the wider construction industry.”
The ACRA Awards acknowledge the technical complexity and collaborative delivery of the works, which included full re-cladding, re-roofing, joinery replacement, and internal refurbishments. The building remained operational throughout construction, with over 75% of rooms available to guests.
The finished project result is a worldclass asset to the building owners and Queenstown community, and a proud achievement for the whole nationwide Brosnan team.
Well done Brosnan. We love seeing our local businesses achieving on the international stage!
“It’s been a privilege to be here alongside our peers and be recognised for the unique work we do in the remedial sector that often goes unseen within the wider construction industry.”
TAKAPUNA BEACH • 10am – 7pm Music • Food • Activities • Games Saturday 24 January 2026 10am – 3pm
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
We would love to see you at our Christmas Family Bike Ride around Sunnynook Park on Sunday 14 December from 5pm to 7pm. Dress up in a Christmas costume. Bring your bike/scooter, helmet and a picnic tea; children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet by the Sunnynook Community Centre playground.
We are so happy with our newly renovated community centre, it is looking great. Thanks to Auckland Council and its contractors for doing such an amazing job.
It has been another busy year at the community centre, and I would like to thank all our supporters, user groups, early learning centre, holiday programme and youth programme families for your continued use of our fantastic facility (even with the renovations taking place during November/December). Special thanks to Sunnynook Scouts and the Glenfield Rugby League Club for accommodating some of our groups while the hall floor was being replaced.
We are so happy with our newly renovated community centre, it is looking great. Thanks to Auckland Council and its contractors for doing such an amazing job.
We wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. Our office is closing at 4pm on Wednesday 17 December 2025 and will reopen at 9am on Monday 12 January 2026. Keep an eye out for the 2026 Term 1 newsletter – it will be filled with wonderful information on the classes that are run from the Sunnynook Community Centre and Kennedy Park Observation Post.
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
2025 has been one of transformative growth and recordbreaking engagement for Shore Junction, cementing our status as Auckland's premier hub for rangatahi. We successfully scaled our services, ensuring we continued to provide a safe, collaborative and creative space, while dramatically expanding our reach in the community.
Membership surged, with the centre proudly surpassing the 5,000-member mark in January, and now stands at just under 6,500 members in late November. This response was quantified by 18,600 total member check-ins over the preceding 12 months. Beyond youth use, we have hosted 866 external events for community groups, businesses and schools, highlighting our value as a wider community asset, continuing our commitment to the non-profit sector by donating over $100,000 in hireage hours since founding in 2021.
Key milestones of the year included the triumphant fourth birthday celebration in March, which provided a moment to reflect on a legacy that has generated over 48,763 cumulative visits and provided over 121,908 hours of free access to young people since opening. We launched a dedicated e-sports room with ten new PCs, and moved our band room to the new space outside, creating two new dedicated rooms. Our music programmes thrived, with a revamped recording studio and the launch of the successful "Core on the Shore" metal event. Programmes like 'Upstge' and 'SJ Records' continued to nurture emerging artists, and we released new tracks on Spotify each term.
During term breaks, the team delivered crucial skill-building workshops on topics like CV writing and interview practice. A popular working bee saw youth repair broken bikes, which they were then able to keep. We were also able to provide valuable academic support during exam periods and celebrated Māori language and culture with an observance of Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori in September.
We close for the Christmas break on Saturday 20 December and re-open on Tuesday 6 January. We are so excited for the year ahead and to see what 2026 brings for Shore Junction.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
As the end of the year approaches, many of us feel both excitement and exhaustion. The school term has been filled with learning, sports, performances and community events. While these bring joy and growth, they also use up our energy. Holidays are more than just a break from routine; they are an essential part of wellbeing. They give us the chance to reset, reconnect and rediscover who we are beyond the busyness of daily life.
Research consistently highlights the value of downtime for both children and adults. The American Psychological Association (2021) found that regular rest and unstructured time help lower stress hormones, boost creativity and improve emotional regulation. Similarly, studies from Harvard’s Centre on the Developing Child show that when young people have time to play, relax and connect socially, their brains consolidate learning and strengthen neural pathways related to attention, memory and empathy. Rest makes us smarter, happier and kinder.
At Kristin, our wellbeing framework draws on the five forms of mana, which offer a powerful lens for understanding how holidays support the whole person, their mind, body, and spirit.
• Mana Whānau reminds us that belonging and connection are vital. Holidays give us time to strengthen relationships through shared meals, adventures, or simply being together without rushing.
• Mana Ūkaipō encompasses comfort and grounding. The sense of returning to a place where we are known and loved. Whether it’s a familiar family routine or a quiet moment at home, this sense of ‘home’ restores balance.
• Mana Motuhake is about identity and individuality. With more freedom and less structure, children can follow their interests, express creativity and rediscover what makes them unique.
• Mana Tū reflects courage and agency. The energy we find when we step outside our comfort zone. Holidays offer a chance for new experiences and challenges that build confidence and resilience.
• Mana Tangatarua highlights the ability to balance different worlds – home and school, work and play, effort and rest. Time away from the rush helps us see that balance isn’t indulgent, it’s essential.
How parents can support a restful, reconnecting holiday:
1. Protect unstructured time. Resist the urge to fill every day with plans. Boredom can be a gift; it can spark imagination, problemsolving and creativity. Children need time to rest their minds and rediscover what brings them joy.
2. Prioritise connection over perfection. Holidays aren’t about creating picture-perfect moments but about being present. Shared experiences like cooking together, walking the dog, watching a movie and going to the beach strengthen Mana Whānau and Mana Ūkaipō.
3. Model balance. Let your children see you relax, say no to overcommitment and make time for what matters most. This teaches and strengthens Mana Tangatarua, which is the ability to move between effort and ease. It is important to remind our children that rest is a vital part of success. Happy holidays.
By Senior Solicitor - Maria Vergara-Oesterle.
Maria is an experienced Trust and Estate Planning lawyer and offers strategic guidance on all aspects of trusts, from establishment to ongoing management, compliance, and eventual distribution or wind-up. She takes a holistic approach to estate planning, considering the unique circumstances of each client to provide tailored solutions.
When we talk about “asset planning”, many assume it’s only for the wealthy, something to consider later in life, or a topic to be avoided because it’s not easy to confront mortality. But planning ahead is important, regardless of income, age, or relationship status.
Asset planning is about protecting your home, your savings, and the people you care about, and reducing the risk of difficult and expensive disputes after you’re gone.
Start with a will: Asset planning begins with understanding what will happen to your property when you die and help ensure your intentions are carried out. A will is the cornerstone of asset planning. It lets you decide who inherits your property, who cares for minor children, and who administers your estate. Without one, rigid legal formulas apply, which may not reflect your wishes. But note that jointly owned assets pass to the survivor automatically and trust assets are not owned by you so don’t fall under your will.
On death, a surviving partner can choose between receiving in accordance with the will, taking their share of relationship property or if there is no will then receiving as per the intestacy provisions. However, where a spouse/partner or children consider they haven’t been adequately recognised they may also bring a Family Protection Act claim.
Consider a contracting-out agreement: For couples, asset planning means understanding how the Property (Relationships) Act affects pre-relationship assets. Contracting-out agreements can help define what property sits outside the relationship property pool and how it is to be treated upon separation or death. This is especially important where there are second or later life relationships or the need to ring fence pre-relationship assets.
Regularly reviewing your agreement i.e. five yearly, ensures that it still meets your expectations as your relationship evolves.
Consider a trust: Trusts remain a valuable tool in asset planning, particularly for those who want to protect assets for future generations, manage family wealth, provide for vulnerable beneficiaries or minimise exposure to relationship or business risks. Trusts can help separate personal ownership from long-term stewardship of assets which are held and utilised for the benefit of identified beneficiaries. However, trusts must be properly structured, administered, and aligned with your will and other estate planning documents. A trust is not a 'set and forget' tool. It requires careful thought and ongoing management to ensure it actually achieves what you intend.
Asset planning is about peace of mind: Ultimately, asset planning is about caring for those you love. With the right documents in place and a clear understanding of the law, you can minimise conflict, reduce costs, and ensure your legacy goes where you want it to. Planning now can save significant emotional and financial cost later.
How we can help: At Schnauer and Co Lawyers, we can help you navigate asset planning with clarity and confidence, from wills and contracting-out agreements to relationship property, trusts, and estate matters. If you’d like tailored advice, our team is here to help you protect what matters most.
Schnauer & Co, 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177 schnauer.com
Justin Flitter has been a leading voice in New Zealand’s AI scene since founding NewZealand.AI in 2017. Over the last eight years he’s helped thousands of Kiwi businesses discover why, where and how to leverage AI through practical workshops and training.
Justin will be the guest speaker at the North Harbour Club’s first Business Excellence Network (BEN) Breakfast of 2026, taking place on Tuesday 17 February.
A long-time community builder, Justin also chairs the New Zealand Tech Marketers Group and helps produce and emcee TEDxAuckland. He’s behind initiatives such as the Great NZ AI Roadshow, and serves as a director at Business Mentors New Zealand.
At this not-to-be-missed breakfast, Justin will share the latest best practice and practical advice to help you and your business leverage this remarkable technology:
1. The capability of AI today,
2. Showcase how Kiwi companies are creating a competitive edge,
3. Demonstrate tools and workflows to supercharge your potential with AI.
Justin’s style is energetic, insightful, and always focused on giving business audiences actionable next steps.
Tickets $69 plus GST per person
You can book online at northharbourclub.co.nz or via email to info@northharbourclub.co.nz. Be quick, this breakfast will sellout.
Waitemata Golf Club, Derby Street, Devonport Thursday 26 February 2026; day begins from 11.15am, ends 7:00pm
Step right up for the most laughter you’ve ever had on the golf course – a carnival of clubs, chaos and cheeky competition… with more fun holes than you can shake a club at!
Join the North Harbour Club and Milford Asset Management for a wildly entertaining 18-hole Ambrose tournament that is golf with a twist, with laughter on tap and memories to be made mid-swing!
Entry $600 per team of four people – includes golf entry/ fees; bbq lunch; buffet dinner; fun prizes – including for the best dressed team! Hole sponsorships available as well. As we went to press there were only a few spaces left in the field – be quick… info@northharbourclub.co.nz. Or Visit: northharbourclub.co.nz
BREAKFAST
‘AI’ with Justin Flitter Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna Tuesday 17th Feb 2026, from 6:45am
CIRQUE DU GOLF
Hosted by: Milford Asset Management Waitemata Golf Course Thursday 26th Feb 2026, from 11:15am
Hosted by: Next Sponsors
Location: Stanley Bay Petanque Club Thursday 5th March 2026, from 5:30pm Visit:
By Liz Ranger, Trust Manager, Pupuke Birdsong Project
Some good news from a Castor Bay local: "For four nights I have heard kākā, and tonight I definitely saw two flying close and low over my home in Castor Bay. I have lived here for 30 years and have never seen nor heard them here. I am familiar with them as there is a large colony of them in Onetangi on Waiheke. I believe this to be a most encouraging sign of rare natives recolonising."
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability
But summer is here, and so are the weeds. Why do they always grow faster than the flowers and veggies? The more invasive ones can take over your garden, and they can do the same in our reserves. It’s easier to tackle them before they get too wellestablished. If you’re wondering how to identify them, and how to get them out of your garden, there are some tips some help tackle the worst of them. More information is available through our website at pupukebirdsong.org.nz/resources/. There is information about invasive weeds, how to remove them so they don’t come back, and ideas of what to plant in their place.
What’s on this month: Pupukemoana Care working bee Sunday 14 December, 9.30am - 11.30am. Join our first working bee to protect Lake Pupuke. This session will focus on removing eel grass that has gathered along the lake edges, helping to restore the health of Pupukemoana and support biodiversity. Please BYO gloves. Spare gloves can be provided on a non-returnable basis. Please take them home and bring them with you to subsequent events.
A big thank you to Auckland Council, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, and Healthy Waters for their ongoing support.
For more information and to book 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:
Our I.Drive x VTNZ testing day was a huge success! I.Drive partnered with VTNZ to bring their portable testing units to Takapuna (North Shore, Auckland) in late November. Fourteen attendees registered to attend this event. These testing days help participants to pass their learner's licence without the stress and overstimulation of taking the test in a traditional testing venue. We have also confirmed I.Drive workshop dates for 2026! Want to see when and where we will be hosting I.Drive workshops? Keep an eye on our website.
In November, the I.Lead national committee had its final meeting of the year. They met in Auckland and discussed numerous governance topics and solidified plans for next year’s I.Lead events across the country. During their stay in Auckland, Yes Disability hosted its AGM, where the national committee met with the Yes board to discuss their mahi.
On 3 December 2025, I.Lead’s Auckland committee hosted a world record attempt for the 'Longest Moving Line of Wheelchairs'. The record attempt occurred at Eden Park, dubbed New Zealand’s national stadium. Deliberately aligned with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, this event celebrated resilience, solidarity, and the strength of community. With the existing record of 400 wheelchairs held by India, this event aimed to get 600 people in wheelchairs to Eden Park.
I.Power is our new, fun, supportive programme designed to help young adults gain confidence, build life skills, and discover their next steps. If you’ve left school early and are looking for direction, I.Power is here to help you grow, connect, and thrive. For young people aged 16-20 of all abilities, I.Power is a dynamic programme designed to equip young adults with the essential skills and connections needed to thrive independently. Aimed at young people who have left school early, due to various reasons, and who need some pathway direction, this programme will take place on Wednesday mornings at Shore Junction. Keen to learn more? Get in touch with Rebecca at rebecca@ilead.org.nz.
I.Lead is excited to share Te Ara Tāne: The Path of Men with you. 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. Our next meeting date is October 21. Any inquiries or to learn more, 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
Are you an incorporated society or association? Re-registration is required soon. Find out more on our free online training.
LiiFT Aotearoa professional development and training for NFP/ community groups/individuals:
9 December: 6.30pm to 7.30pm. FREE online (Zoom). The Incorporated Societies Act Changes: Re-register or risk closure; What your society needs to do now.
Are you an incorporated society or association? Did you know the new Incorporated Societies Act has come into force? Membership societies and associations will need to decide if they wish to re-register as an incorporated society under the new act by 5 April 2026 or risk your society ceasing to exist. The process for change requires consultation with your members, so it can take some time to go through the re-registration preparation. Join us at this online session to find out what you need to know for this transition and how to get your decision process moving. There will be one more session of the above on 10 February, 2026.
Membership societies and associations will need to decide if they wish to reregister as an incorporated society …
For more information and how to register for the above course, go to LiiFT.nz or contact info@ancad.org.nz with your expression of interest.
An exhibition held in the Takapuna Library.
Have a wonderful Christmas and holiday period, everyone. We look forward to seeing and hearing from you in the new year!
Visit ancad.org.nz facebook @ancad.org.nz instagram ancadinc LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz 0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz
to Aidan Bennett (021500997)
The front cover of this beautifully produced and well written book depicts a painting by Tony Ogle. His ‘Coach House Balcony Original’ dates from 1996 and shows a view from a balcony of the Lake House on its old site overlooking Takapuna Beach, framed by pohutukawa trees and with Rangitoto in the distance. It really sums up the nature of the book: respect for the historic building, acknowledgement of the old site and the encouragement of artistic expression.
Progressing through the book, individual people and families come to the fore. Land owner David Murdoch is followed by John Gordon (who had the Lake House built), the Scanlen family, the Sheppard family, the Winstone family, the Arthur family and then sister and brother Dorothy and Francis Gray. Developer Bob Green then enters the story (really stories), along with painter Tony Ogle and other residents of Lake House, while it was still located on Takapuna Beach.
By David Verran
Part Two of the book features the rescue and revival of the Lake House, at that time also known as the Coach House, between 1995 and 2000 when it was eventually settled on its current site.. This also includes details concerning the formation of the Lake House Arts Trust, the restoration, the parties and the “garden gurus”.
The chapter entitled “Opening Day” brings Genevieve Becroft deservedly front and centre, as the real driving force behind the Lake House’s rebirth as an arts centre for Takapuna and the surrounding area. She served as a North Shore City councillor from 1989 to 2001 and was also active with The PumpHouse Theatre. We also learn about the addition of the barracks building at the current site and enjoy general photographs covering the 1995 to 2000 period.
The book has four appendices. The first is a well-warranted tribute to Genevieve, the second a poster for the 1995 ‘End of an Era’ exhibition, the third a 1920s watercolour of Partington’s Windmill painted by Lake House resident Mrs. Godden and the last a wonderful collection of reproductions of more recent artworks featuring the Lake House. These are from the Lake House Arts permanent collection and were on display in the Angela Morton Room on the mezzanine floor at Takapuna Library.
The book is available from the Lake House at $99.95, well worth it alone for the beautiful reproductions on quality paper at the end of the book.
Following on from my July 2025 column discussing the distribution of population across the North Shore in 1925, I decided to look at more recent polling booth data for further population trends.
From 1925 to 1928, the numbers of people voting at the various booths did not change much but I did note in 1928 there were new polling booths at Campbells Bay and Browns Bay. From 1935 there was also a new polling booth at Torbay and in 1938 at both Castor Bay and Mairangi Bay. Certainly, the Bays were to see a lot of growth from 1928 to 1945, transitioning from holiday residences to suburbia.
Takapuna Borough (at that time excluding Castor Bay) had a 19.67% population increase between the 1926 and 1936 census, but mainly in central Takapuna and Milford rather than Bayswater and Belmont. On the other hand, for the same period, numbers in Northcote and Devonport Boroughs decreased. As of 1 April 1938, the total population of the four North Shore boroughs (Birkenhead, Northcote, Takapuna, and Devonport) was around 23,100. This excluded the growing numbers in the surrounding Waitemata County, which included Glenfield, Albany, and the Bays.
In 1945, the total population of the four North Shore boroughs was 28,391, and the inclusion of Albany, Glenfield and particularly the East Coast Bays would have pushed that beyond 30,000.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
One of the big challenges bowls administrators face is balancing the needs of the various strands within the sport, particularly those playing at the elite levels compared with those playing for recreation, the so-called rollup bowlers, who in many cases provide clubs with their backbone and most of the volunteer base.
Another area of conflict has been in determining which is the best format for inter-club competitions, and whether that's the pennants system which has been introduced in recent years, with varying success, or the more traditional “sevens,” which comprises a singles player, a pair and a four.
Pennants is usually made up of nine players split into three triples, with the winner decided by the overall shots aggregate. Thus in pennants the winner may actually lose two of the games, by narrow margins, but by winning the third by a lopsided margin win the entire contest.
However, fitting pennants into an increasingly congested calendar became a problem both for clubs and the centre and more priority was given to the longer established sevens inter-club competition, which also had the advantage of leading, through qualification at centre and zone levels, to a national title, a distinction which occasionally has been achieved by a few Harbour clubs.
But the pennants still had its advocates, and during the 2018-19 season winning the pennants premier grade was made an official centre title, though this was quickly discontinued by an overwhelming vote against by clubs at a subsequent centre annual meeting.
This season the centre continued with the pennants competition, but with a slightly amended structure and switching from weekends to early season dates on Fridays in October. And rather than many divisions it was limited to the just the one. To save travelling too far teams were allocated into four zones, with venues allocated as far as possible on a home-and-way basis. In addition, instead of a men’s and women’s competition teams could be of any gender combination.
While it may not have been perfect, generally the new concept appeared to be a success. Four strong clubs as zone winners emerged for the final day, Orewa (north), Mairangi Bay (east), Riverhead (west) and Birkenhead (south).
among these teams were some excellent players, many with centre titles to their credit, even gold stars, the likes of Steve Cox and Tony Garelja (Riverhead), Elaine McClintock, Theresa Rogers, Sheryl Wellington and Jan Gledhill (Mairangi) and even a Black Jack international, Wendy Jensen (Birkenhead).
In a dramatic and tense final Riverhead won the title from Mairangi Bay, with Birkenhead winning the third-fourth play-off from Orewa. Others in the winning Riverhead team were Duncan Whittaker, Duane McDonald, Bruce Baker, Keith Wood, Doug George, Peter Signal and Jeanine Browns. And though they missed the title, Mairangi’s Leon Wech, Jan Gledhill and Gordon Jenkins won every match.
Meanwhile, if the standard of the pennants finals day is an indication both the men’s and women’s inter-club sevens competitions, scheduled for 28 February, 1-7 March should be just as closely fought. Several clubs have been bolstered by transfers and new arrivals, Birkenhead, especially, in both men’s and women’s. And the always-formidable Brown’s Bay, with Neil Fisher, Colin Rogan and John Walker at its core, should be even more so with last season’s national men’s singles champion Matt Berry having moved there from Auckland.
Another recent national women’s singles champion, Leeane Poulson, has moved to Takapuna from the Counties-Manukau centre.
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!).
I can’t believe where the year has gone. So much for the promises of a great recovery in 2025. In my 55 years of contracting I have never gone through a tougher year. It has been very hard to keep everyone employed. We have managed to do so, but it has been hard. But then you look on the positive side of things and what we have to look forward to.
Spring time is coming along, summer holidays are on the horizon and we're living in the greatest country in the world with so much to offer. And then thoughts of what I am going to buy my grandchildren for Christmas. I’ve recently read a good book about fishing: catching fish, different sorts of fishing rods, how to bait a fishing line and the grand prize of it all, how to cook the fish. So, I bought half a dozen copies and they will be distributed among my grandchildren. I can promise you something, I certainly won’t be buying them any plastic toys or crap like that.
I’d like to give congratulations to the St Leo’s Primary School board of trustees, teachers, parents and volunteers for their wonderful fair held in late November. This fair has been going on for as long as I can remember and does a fantastic job of raising funds to pay for the extra bits and pieces for the primary school.
I was brought up in a different world as so many of us were, creating our lives of fun and adventure down at the Devonport Yacht Club, Duder's Beach and Torpedo Bay, sailing beaten-up old boats until the sun came down. Having fun with our mates up the road and lucky to have the occasional milk shake across the road from the clock tower at
the bottom of Church Street to wet our whistle. The halcyon days that I so wish could return for the kids of a modern generation.
Recently in Devonport all the flower beds from the top of Victoria Road to the foot of Victoria Road (near the statue of the untidy soldier) bloomed with spring growth. Beautiful to behold, they gave the village a stunning fragrance of an oncoming summer. Then the council came along, ripped them all out and dumped them on the back of a truck. Much to the dismay of the locals, who asked why the hell would the council do this to dozens of square metres of beautiful gardens in the prime of their beautiful lives? And there the flower beds lay, a desert of nothingness. God only knows how these councils work.
I’d like to give congratulations to the St Leo’s Primary School board of trustees, teachers, parents and volunteers for their wonderful fair held in late November. This fair has been going on for as long as I can remember and does a fantastic job of raising funds to pay for the extra bits and pieces for the primary school. It’s a tradition in Devonport and long may it go on. People helping themselves to get ahead.
Election year next year is going to be interesting. I do firmly believe the current coalition government has got us going in the right direction. But it is going to take a few more years until we can enjoy the fruits of our hard work. I personally think we should stick with the current government and believe there are some really good people working hard, especially in the agriculture fields. Our farmers are currently keeping us all going and I think their lives are a lot easier without the hindrance of a useless Labour government.
I know the new council has only been in for a couple of months but I still haven’t seen any improvement on Lake Road and I’m resigned to the fact that I never will in my lifetime. The more times the council allows new construction close to the road, the more unlikely we are to ever see the road being widened.
So, let’s just forget about all this drama and uncertainty in the world. Let’s just enjoy the next month or so the best we can. Walk the beaches, enjoy the sunrises, enjoy time with your family and friends, and don’t spend too much on the kids because they don’t need it. Stick to the basics and enjoy your life in this most beautiful country. We’ve got it good compared to so many in the world.
Enjoy your Christmas and festive season and hopefully going into 2026 economically things will improve.
JI MM Y O’BR I E N
General Manager | Director
M 021 979 001
E jimmy o’brien@colliers.com
JA NET M A R SHAL L
Director | Commercial
M 021 684 775
E janet.marshall@colliers.com
M A TT PRENT I C E
Director | Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 464 904
E matt.prentice@colliers.com
SH ONEET C HA N D
Director | Investment Sales
M 021 400 765
E shoneet.chand@colliers.com
The past year has seen steady activity across the North Shore commercial market, with solid enquiry from tenants, owner-occupiers and investors. Our recent transactions reflect this strength, from the sale of larger assets such as 26E William Pickering Drive and 32 Kell Drive, Albany to strong lease and buyer demand for well-located office and industrial units across Albany Takapuna and the Wairau Valley.
Thank you to all our clients for your continued support throughout the year. We appreciate the trust you place in the Colliers North Shore team and look forward to working with you in 2026.
Janet Marshall Director | Commercial
R YA N DE Z WA R T
Associate Director
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 575 001
E ryan dezwart@colliers.com
JA C K TU S O N
Associate Director
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 027 448 1148
E jack.tuson@colliers.com
M IK E R YA N
Broker
Industrial Sales & Leasing
M 021 402 461
E mike.ryan@colliers.com
N I C K RECORDO N
Broker
Commercial Sales & Leasing
M 027 230 6751
E nick.recordon@colliers.com
132 Hurtsmere Road, Takapuna, Auckland
This centrally located Takapuna building is an exceptional opportunity for businesses seeking a well-connected office location. Positioned just minutes from Takapuna Beach, this property offers not only a fantastic work environment but also easy access to a wide range of cafés, restaurants, retail outlets, and essential services.
Landlord offers generous incentives to assist your business relocation.
Call Janet Marshall to arrange a private viewing or for further information.
Janet Marshall 021 684 775
janet.marshall@colliers.com
For Lease
61 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland
Looking for professional office space in the popular Constellation Drive area? Various high quality office options available - excellent opportunities for your head office.
Very efficient layout and lift in the building, plus cafe on site and next to the Northern Busway park and ride. Easy access to East Coast Bays, motorways North, CBD and Western. These are exceptional office opportunities.
Please contact office specialist Janet Marshall for further information and/or to arrange a viewing.
Janet Marshall
021 684 775
janet.marshall@colliers.com
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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Mon-Fri 7:30am-5:30pm, Sat 8:00am-1:00pm, Sun Closed P 09 486 2029 E michies@supershoppes.co.nz W www.autosupershoppes.co.nz/shoppes/michies
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"A
Solution to last month's crossword
Veneer found in Chef Academy (6)
Persian ruler elevated relations with King (6)
Spread-eagle in descent (7)
Half jumps over 42 21 and angles towards performers (13)
Console, or maybe go mad? (4,3)
Mention solar emanations escaping trap (5)
Demon starts to grow horns on upper lip (5)
Perpetual party-goer dreamt that he conformed
Right on time? Early signs indicate that's nonsense (3)
Totalled like a judge before the jury retired (6,2)
Beth scrambled to finish second problem for early
Neatness found in a bakery? (5-3,5)
Heather's hesitation before the International Clarinet Association, initially (5)
See 42 Across
Huge mass of fat, as things turned out, dumbfounds? (12)
So, rising to get a spirit from Ancient Egypt - port? (5)
Solver will bound, so to speak, for a season (8)
Disentangle from Cockney pursuit - drink (7)
Could make you forget one French and two English articles (7)
Stick to how Seb might be heard to answer the phone... (6)
...and how he returned to following Greatest Hits? (4-2) Sphere is authentic and minute (5)
Lift the lid on animal feed, being more curious (5)
Bobby, take a look at the conference! (3)
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.
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