Distributed to homes with welcoming letterboxes in Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill, Castor Bay, Sunnynook, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay, Northcote, Birkenhead, Chatswood, Northcote
A premium industrial investment in a highly exposed position on one of Albany’s main arterial roads, returning $174,568 pa net. The 733 sqm asset features a high stud warehouse, single-level office/showroom, and 12 designated car parks accessed via a dual entry site. Securely leased to a long-standing tenant, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a hands-free investment in a tightly held location.
Cheers without the tears: Managing heartburn and reflux when the bubbles flow
Summer is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. It brings warm days, backyard barbecues, celebratory bubbles, and long evenings spent with friends and whānau. But for many New Zealanders, this period can also bring unwelcome discomfort in the form of heartburn and reflux.
Reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the oesophagus, causing that familiar burning sensation in the chest and throat. Symptoms often worsen over summer as we indulge in richer foods, enjoy a few extra drinks, and stay up later than usual.
Alcohol, particularly sparkling wine, beer and cider, can relax the valve at the base of the oesophagus, often causing reflux. Paired with seasonal favourites like sausages, seafood, pavlova, and spicy marinades, it's easily understood why heartburn becomes a frequent problem.
Fortunately, a few simple strategies can help you raise a glass without the burn:
• Enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation and consider alternating with water.
• Smaller, more frequent meals can reduce pressure on the stomach, while minimising triggers such as citrus and tomato-based dishes.
• Avoid caffeine after midday – it relaxes the valve too.
• After eating, avoid reclining straight away, opt for a relaxed stroll or summer swim instead.
If heartburn becomes persistent, interferes with sleep, or affects your quality of life, it’s worth investigating further. A gastroscopy is a minimally invasive, safe procedure that allows us to examine the oesophagus and stomach using a thin tube with a camera. It is used to identify what’s causing your symptoms and help guide the best treatment for you.
At Waitematā Endoscopy, we aim to make taking a proactive approach to your gut health easy. We accept GP, specialist, and selfreferrals via our website. Our experienced specialists can perform most colonoscopy or gastroscopy procedures for you within seven days of receiving the referral, when you let us match you with the availability of our 20 gastroenterologists and surgeons.
As we near the end of summer, enjoy the bubbles without the burn. With a few simple steps and timely care when you need it, you can savour the last of summer in comfort. Cheers to sunshine, good food, and celebrations without the reflux!
Dr John Perry Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist
Waitematā Endoscopy
With increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy offers greater access to a group of experienced Gastroenterologists and Surgeons, dedicated to providing quality and compassionate care.
Appointments are available within 7 working days for a Colonoscopy or Gastroscopy by matching you with the availability of our Specialists.
Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self -refer via: Or call us on (09) 925 4449
Dr John Perry
ANDREW DORREEN
FEARON HAY MASTERPIECE IN COATESVILLE’S DRESS CIRCLE MAHOENUI VALLEY ROAD, COATESVILLE
This sensational residence, designed by one of NZ's leading architects, Fearon Hay, has been meticulously crafted by Rucon Construction, delivering an exceptional blend of understated luxury with modern family living and a lifestyle of space, privacy and sun.
Positioned on an elevated site of approximately three acres or just over one hectare, it offers some of the best views in Coatesville. The outlook to the north offers a protected reserve green belt. The home takes this in and spans to enjoy a perfect North-West orientation to the pool. Cedar cladding, rendered brickwork and floor-to-ceiling Schüco double glazing sets a contemporary tone, and the twin cedar-clad pavilions create a striking arrival and fantastic separation of living when required.
A serene courtyard centred around a mature cork tree anchors the home’s calm, elegant aesthetic. Light-filled living spaces unfold in an impressive open-plan layout, where a travertine island, Boffi cabinetry and premium European appliances define the designer kitchen. Automated pocket doors open to sun-drenched terraces, manicured lawns, a 15-metre heated pool with integrated spa, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Supplementing the main living areas are a media room, library, sitting area and superb zones for everyday living and entertaining.
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
The main residence offers four beautifully appointed bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms thoughtfully positioned for privacy and comfort, including a private master suite with its own terrace, a generous dressing room and a luxurious stone ensuite. Underfloor heating, ducted air conditioning, French oak floors and soft wool carpets ensure year-round comfort.
Additional practical spaces include a separate laundry, an internal-access double garage, gym, extensive storage and plant equipment for the home’s heating and air-exchange systems.
The second building provides a large games room with a full bathroom and ducted air conditioning, plus an additional double garage currently used as a home office, offering impressive flexibility. Multiple sheds, five water tanks and a private bore support the expansive mature gardens.
This is a landmark property, architecturally outstanding, impeccably finished and designed for an exceptional Coatesville lifestyle.
Contact Andrew Dorreen today for further information and pricing.
This is, without question, one of Auckland’s finest waterfront residences to reach the market in recent years. Positioned on a generous 1,072m² site at the end of Takapuna’s most coveted seaward-side Avenue, “Minnehaha”, this Cape Cod/Hamptons–inspired home has been reimagined by architect Jack McKinney – a renovation spanning three and a half years! Put quite simply, the result is absolutely spectacular.
Spanning approximately 738m² of floor area, including 607m² of interior spaces and 131m² of formed terraces, this gorgeous home is a showcase of craftsmanship and understated elegance and is located in the very best of locations. Uniquely, the site borders a reserve, so it has the benefit of no northern neighbour, making it one of the few beachfront homes on the shore with this feature.
Accommodation-wise, there is a choice of up to six ensuited bedrooms plus a large home office (or five ensuited bedrooms with his and hers ensuites, walk-in robes and two private offices), leaving most families with a surplus of space to sprawl and house guests in complete style. The grand entry foyer with oak heated flooring leads to expansive living spaces framed by panoramic views of Rangitoto Island. A designer kitchen crafted by “Bremich” features a very large island, Bora induction and gas hobs, a pair of Wolf ovens, Liebherr integrated refrigeration and dual wine fridges. The home has two living areas on the main living floor, a lovely blend of relaxed beach, informal living and more formal living rooms to unwind and
relax. There is a large games room set up to house a pool table, and this space also has a full kitchen (including cooking), ideal for entertaining by the pool.
A stunning addition is the eight-seater “certified” home cinema. It is one of only two in NZ at an eye-watering seven-figure cost. All three living spaces flow seamlessly to tiled terraces (ground floor) or terraces overlooking the pool on the mid floor. The views of Rangitoto and its relationship with the water are first class.
The upper bedroom level houses the master suite with a spacious bedroom, two marble bathrooms, two walk-in wardrobes and a private office. Every additional bedroom offers stunning private marble bathrooms with Fantini tapware and excellent wardrobe spaces, integrated sound and televisions.
Perfect for in-home care, guests or perhaps one lucky teenager, is the fully self-contained studio above one of the double garages. This lavish space also offers great close sea views, a marble ensuite, and a full kitchen.
The home has generous off-street parking along with genuine four-car garaging with EV charging. The home is extremely private thanks to raised boundary fencing and while there is direct access to the water, the public if walking by are not visible from the property.
For buyers at the highest end of the market, wanting the best of the best on the shore, they must contact Andrew Dorreen for more information and pricing instructions.
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.
We unashamedly love the Shore!
Welcome to 2026, and our first bumper issue of Channel Magazine for the year, your parochial North Shore magazine.
It’s been a mixed bag so far. Some nice early days of January and some rough days later in the month. Our hearts go out to those affected by the weather events of the second half of January. Particularly to the families and communities that lost loved ones and to those who have had their lives turned upside-down by the severe weather events. Mother nature seems to be getting more extreme, going by what we have faced in recent years.
In this first issue for 2026 we have something for just about everyone. I have enjoyed putting together the features on what Elliot Knight of Knight Crawford and his team are doing in Takapuna, with a focus on their latest project 40 Hurstmere; and also, the chat I had with new Devonport-Takapuna Local Board member Garth Ellingham. Paula Arblaster has done an excellent piece on fun things happening on the Shore in the remaining warm months, and we also chat with key people at our local sailing clubs. Most of New Zealand’s best sailors come from
Publisher/Advertising
the Shore and our wonderful family-orientated sailing clubs.
I continue to be excited about the new Padel courts coming to our Takapuna town square. My ‘hood. The addition of the Padel courts and Knight Crawford opening up 40 Hurstmere eateries to the town square will only enhance Waiwharariki Anzac Square and the overall vibe in Takapuna. Enjoy your FREE February Channel Mag, and everything within, including… health and wellbeing, homes and real estate, out and about, arts and entertainment, dining and eating out, shopping, retirement living, charity events, business, people features, motoring, summer fun, travel, sailing, fitness, optometry, homes and gardens, education, sport, youth, law, building and renovation, community news, history, bowls, grumbles, crosswords –and more!
Have a great February. Spend locally!
Aidan Bennett, QSM
Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder and Managing Director, Benefitz aidan@benefitz.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.
Aidan Bennett, Liz Cannon, Kim McIntosh, Klaudia Wal, Crystal Sharp
Psst… Paula’s Finds
Want to get inspired about what's new north of the Harbour Bridge? In this monthly feature called 'Paula's Finds', we capture our newest team member's enthusiasm for finding interesting happenings around the North Shore.
KICK BACK AND ENJOY MUSIC IN PARKS
Music in Parks is a great part of a North Shore summer, with its free events accessible to so many. The whole family can enjoy an afternoon of pop and rock music at this smoke-free, alcohol-free event in Ashley Reserve (near Long Bay Primary School) on Saturday 21 Feb, 3pm - 6pm. ourauckland. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/2026/02/ music-in-parks-long-bay/
GET ARTY
Was your New Year's resolution to learn a new skill or get off the socials and spend time using your hands? Why not sign up for an art course at Mairangi Arts Centre? You could learn to draw, paint, sculpt with clay or use a potter's wheel. They have both youth and adult programmes catering to all experience levels - so don't let being a beginner stop you. Mairangi Arts Centre, 20 Hastings Rd, Mairangi Bay. mairangiarts.co.nz/
NEW YEAR, NEW TRAINERS, NEW STORE!
JD Sports recently opened its biggest store in New Zealand at Albany Mega Centre. Known as "The King of Trainers", it's a British retailer with a multinational network, known for offering product exclusives from major sports brands. Albany Mega Centre, (next to Animates) jdsports.co.nz
A NEWER LARGER MULAN
I've been told to avoid telling readers about Mulan, because certain people are worried they won't be able to get a table! Fear not, your obsession with their famous steamed buns is safe, because Mulan has moved from Hinemoa Street to larger premises at the ex-bank site on Birkenhead Ave. Mulan serves authentic family-style food inspired by the homestyle cooking of Penang and the flavours of Southeast Asia. 10 Birkenhead Avenue. Mon to Fri, 7am until late, Sat and Sun, 8am until late. mulan.co.nz
PURPLE POPPY DAY
Purple Poppy Day recognises animals who have served and are serving. Come along to Torpedo Bay Navy Museum to celebrate animals that perform vital roles. Meet Vito, the ant detector dog from the Department of Conservation with his handler Adeline Bosman, and listen to RNZN pipes and drums. Pets on a lead are welcome. Note: weather-dependent, as this is an outside event. Sunday 22 Feb, 11am, Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, 64 King Edward Parade, Devonport. navymuseum.co.nz/whats-on/ purple-poppy-day-commemoration/
TEMPURA FANS REJOICE!
Newly opened Hanano Japanese Restaurant is already popular for its lighter-than-air tempura batter and delicious donburis. But honestly, everything we've tried has been delicious. Even the side salad gets rave reviews - we want to know how to make that dressing! 33C Triton Drive, Rosedale, Monday to Saturday, 11am - 2.30pm and 4pm - 9pm Instagram @hanano_tendon
FEELING ORWELLIAN?
When friends say that current events remind them of 'Animal Farm', do you wonder what they mean? This could be your chance to rectify that knowledge gap. A new stage production of George Orwell's novella 'Animal Farm' brings the political satire to life on stage and showcases the hard work of local student actors and director Arlo Feeney. Rose Centre, Belmont 19-22 Feb. 7.30pm, 22 Feb, with a 2pm matinee also. actorslab.co.nz/animal-farm/
SEND SOME CHOCOLATE LOVE
Made your Valentine's Day plans yet? What says love better than chocolate! Devonport Chocolates has been creating quality chocolate for more than 34 years and seems to have a new and decadent flavour every time I visit. Check out the beautiful Valentine's Day range at Wynyard Street, Devonport, Commercial Bay or online. devonportchocolates.co.nz
Photographer: Kathryn Nobbs
Noteworthy Choir and Singers Marin raise the roof
Noteworthy Choir and Singers Marin from Mill Valley, California, raised the rafters of the Holy Trinity Church Hall in Devonport on Thursday 15 January. A collaboration facilitated by Tour Time, the concert fostered musical exchange and brought a vibrant international energy to the evening. Adding flair, Off Broadway Big Band, Papakura, elevated the performance by Noteworthy Choir. Founded in April 2025 by director Chloe Jane, Noteworthy Choir is an all-inclusive singing group based in Devonport that has flourished, building a reputation for welcoming singers of all backgrounds and celebrating connection through song.
Noteworthy Choir, Singers Marin and Off Broadway Big Band
Terry, Jo and Sue Maskell
Kirsty Munro, Keith and Jackie Pemberton and Mark Watts
Stella Moughan, El Mann, Lesley Morrissey and Jane Messer
Emma Johnson, Harriet Kossman, Lou Dudding and Cathy Coulman
Sally King, Pauline Wood and Rixt Brownlow
Sue Shin, Kearoa Mokaraka and Sa'olele Sapa'u
Kaitlyn Miller, Natasha Rudduck, Lisa Wright, Amy Wall and Kerrin Grigg
30 years of Shakespeare in the Park magic!
Shoreside Theatre marks three decades of magic at The PumpHouse’s outdoor amphitheatre on Lake Pupuke –Auckland’s only open-air Shakespeare experience. The opening night of 'Much Ado About Nothing' on Friday 16 January had the full-capacity audience captivated by a talented local cast delivering Shakespeare with energy, humour and heart. Comedy 'Much Ado About Nothing' and tragedy 'Romeo and Juliet' run until Saturday 14 February. With free entry for kids 12 and under, it’s the perfect summer outing for families, friends, and anyone who loves theatre under the stars. Don’t miss this North Shore tradition – book now at pumphouse.co.nz
Eve Galbraith and Siouxsie Wiles
Glenda Pearce and Brent Marshall
Michelle Atkinson, Terri Mellender and Stuart Tupp Raj, Maya and Caroline Selvaratnam Nicky J and Icoa Tiseli
Grant Zent, Emily Cuff, Olivia Peat, Sage Carruthers, Kasey Rule-Jones, Steph Curtis and Jen Bates
Oscar Miller, Nicolle Medda, Matt Goldsbro, Donna Hickmott and James Carrick
Hollie Blackwell, Hugh and Tom Reid and Jo Blackwell
Sir Owen Glenn reopens AUT Millennium's National Aquatic Centre
AUT Millennium has officially reopened the iconic 50-metre pool at the Sir Owen Glenn National Aquatic Centre following a four-month refurbishment, an important milestone in its long-term Aquatic Legacy Project. The pool was celebrated at a reopening event on 27 January, attended by key funders, partners and stakeholders, including Sir Owen Glenn, Auckland Council representatives, Sir Stephen Tindall and leading members of the aquatic community. With the refurbishment complete, the centre is well-positioned to continue its legacy as a hub of aquatic excellence for Auckland, ensuring it continues to deliver high-quality experiences for the thousands who rely on the centre for swimming, water safety, water polo, surf lifesaving, competitive training and community wellbeing.
Rebecca Meder, Henry Williams, Graham Hill, Monique Williams, (Front) - Rance Gower-Winter, Cameron Gray and Erika Fairweather (Back)
John and Nick Cairns and Anna Atkinson
David Kingston, Rick Ellis, Michelle Mitchell and Mike Knell Tui Boteju, Niall Miller and Rob Campbell
Matthew Hawkins and Jacolize Becker
Mike Stanley and Sir Stephen Tindall
Louise Rich, Rhiannon King and Nicole Craig
Sir Owen Glenn
Takapuna’s best-kept secret
If you haven't visited The Emerald - Takapuna Beach in a while or didn't even know it was there, you are missing out on one of Takapuna's most gorgeous hidden gems. It's perfect for business travellers and holiday visitors alike, with a wide variety of boutique self-contained accommodations available.
As soon as you enter the lush, sweeping entrance, you are immersed in a tranquil beachside oasis, surrounded by tropical greenery. From the restorative serenity of the gardens to the tasteful furnishings of the rooms, everything at The Emerald is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Guests awake rejuvenated by a restful night’s sleep to the sounds of native birds in the courtyard garden at the centre of the property.
This beachside oasis is perfectly tucked away in a prime location right alongside the stunning Takapuna Beach – literally, just steps away – making it so easy to explore everything there is to see and do in the area. With free onsite parking, stress immediately ebbs away, and the temptation to relax, leave your shoes behind and stroll barefoot to the famous beach is compelling. Perhaps a picnic on the beach is the order of the day, with many takeaway options available close by. If you prefer to dine out and sample the many culinary and gastronomic delights Takapuna has to offer, it's just a few minutes' walk from excellent cafés and restaurants. Relax and enjoy the lovely autumn days as you soak up the sun, swim in the sea or stroll along the stunning coastal walkway to Milford Beach or Devonport.
The Emerald is all about supporting local and building strong connections with local businesses and residents alike. James, Sam and the team are always happy to welcome you.
For more information about The Emerald or these special offers between May and August, call or email James on 09 488 3500 or info@emerald-inn.co.nz
The Emerald - Takapuna Beach
16 The Promenade, Takapuna 09 488 3500 info@emerald-inn.co.nz emerald-inn.co.nz
Thinking about renovating this winter? Special rates for locals between May and August.
Are you looking for an ideal home away from home this winter? Perhaps you are planning on renovating, building or moving house?
Just for locals, we have special rates between May and August, including long-term weekly deals of just:
• $700 per week for a studio room, OR
• $995 per week for a one-bedroom unit
Both options sleep two people, and the rates include a weekly service.
Bookings are available now, but availability is strictly limited, so book now.
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30 years of Shakespeare in the Park on the Shore
Auckland Shakespeare in the Park at The PumpHouse is a North Shore summer tradition that hasn’t missed a year despite floods and the plague! Channel Mag caught up with one of the unsung heroes of the team, Jen Bates, stage manager for this year’s production of 'Romeo and Juliet'.
Channel Mag: This is the 30th year of Auckland Shakespeare in the Park. Why does his work still connect so strongly with audiences today?
Jen Bates: Shakespeare still connects because the stories are so recognisable and everyone can relate to ideas like love or conflict. Even so, the way they’re staged is always slightly different. Casts are made up of diverse ages and backgrounds, so audiences can enjoy seeing familiar stories told in fresh ways. The fact that these plays can still captivate us and hold our attention for hours shows that Shakespeare’s work really stands the test of time.
This season includes a lot of young people, many working on Shakespeare for the first time. What have you noticed about their growth through the process?
I’ve been really inspired by how many young people have put themselves forward this season. Several of our performers and my assistant stage managers are still at college, and are balancing school while being involved with a show of this scale. It’s been amazing to see these rangatahi step up and grow in confidence as they realise just how capable they actually are. The Shoreside team has done a fantastic job of making everyone feel supported and part of the community.
What does a stage manager actually do?
If you spot someone dressed in black with a headset, tucked into the wings, that’s likely the stage manager. We guide the flow of a performance, follow cues, make sure performers are where they need to be, and step in to solve any problems. A bit like an air traffic controller, keeping everyone moving safely and on time.
What skills does a good stage manager need, and which ones are most crucial on a show like this?
I love being organised, and I’m definitely a planner, which really helps as a stage manager. Friends say I tend to ‘take charge’, and in this role, that can be a good thing! But when things don’t go to plan, I’ve learned to stay calm under pressure and keep a steady presence, which influences the mood of the cast and crew.
Having a 'side-view' of the production, what do you witness from the wings that audiences never see?
I see a very different kind of performance, which includes the moments just before and after a scene. I see the performers’ nerves before they go on and then the relief and excitement when something goes really well. There’s a contrast between the controlled chaos happening behind me backstage and the scripted performance playing out in front of me. It’s a privileged view of all the hard work that goes into creating what an audience sees on stage.
The 30th season of Shakespeare in the Park continues until Saturday 14 February at The PumpHouse Theatre. Tickets from pumphouse.co.nz
Alice Dibble (Juliet) and Grant Zent (Romeo)
Emily Cuff (Benvolio), Forest Cully (Tybalt) and Daniel Coombridge (Sampson)
Jen Bates
DEPOT with Amy Saunders
DEPOT Te Whare
Toi, Devonport
Tēnā koutou, and welcome to 2026! We are excited to present three stunning exhibitions to kick off the year - more info below! The DEPOT Shop and Ceramics Studio at 3 Vic Road are also here for Valentine's Day gifting, so be sure to stop by today to browse or create something special for that special someone!
DEPOT 3 Vic Road
Jean Stewart's Sitting with the Trees continues until 15 February. Capturing the wild pine and native bush that populate Puponga point in the Waitākere ranges where Jean lives, this exhibition is entirely painted outside in an effort to capture what is being seen, while in some way also echoing wider concerns.
The DEPOT Shop | Toi Toa February's Maker of the Month is Eva Kerer, a contemporary jewellery artist based in Whakatū (Nelson). Eva's pieces celebrate the beauty of imperfections. She views the maker's mark not as a flaw but as a distinct, personal touch that reflects the love and effort invested in each piece of handmade jewellery.
You can also come and make your own gifts for Valentine's Day at the DEPOT Ceramics Studio, 3 Vic Road! Book online or pop in and paint by 7 February, and we'll glaze and fire in time for you to give to your special someone. Or stop by on the day for a romantic painting session together before your dinner date!
DEPOT Artspace
Ashleigh Zimmerman's recentlyopened exhibition Whare Ngaro unapologetically addresses the kaupapa of infertility through a wahine Māori lens. Visceral, powerful and confronting, the exhibition leans into the uncomfortable and provokes dialogue about wāhine and their intimate relationship with whakapapa.
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!
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
Summer nights at the theatre
This February at The PumpHouse Theatre, we're celebrating 30 years of Shakespeare in the Park in our enchanting outdoor amphitheatre, which has been reviewed to be "one of Auckland's most atmospheric performance spaces", allowing performances in the open-air setting to feel "expansive and alive". (Blackguard Media Reviews). Shakespeare in the Park audiences often give feedback to us that they've been left feeling like they've been part of something properly special.
Two of the Bard's best plays feature this year. 'Much Ado About Nothing', directed by Michelle Atkinson is set in a punk community and centred around a music venue; this version is loud, witty, and fizzing with live original music. Then we flip the vibe with 'Romeo and Juliet", directed by Steph Curtis. This is a traditional staging that is equal parts romantic and devastating, putting a focus on young people surrounded by adults and systems that fail them.
Late February keeps the emotional stakes high with 'The Last Five Years' - an award-winning musical by Jason Robert Brown. This incredible piece is a rollercoaster of romance, ambition, and what happens when two people fall in and out of sync. Catch it from 20-27 February.
The Creative Talks 2026 programme has just dropped; be sure to add the dates to your calendar:
Frank Graveson: Antarctic Explorer (9 March)
Debbie Dunsford: A History of Milford (20 April)
Catherine George: Demystifying Arts Funding (18 May)
Michael Hurst, ONZM: The Life of an Actor (7 September)
Darrell Daglish: So How Do You Play That? (28 September)
Richard Hills: Why the Arts Are Important (19 October)
Creative Talks are free! RSVP is required on our website.
Kia hari tonu! See you at the theatre soon.
James Bell
BRAND NEW FAMILY LIVING IN LONG BAY
Pricing starts at $1.1m
Welcome to Elementum, a boutique collection of 3 and 4-bedroom townhouses just moments from Auckland’s most beautiful beach, Long Bay. Architecturally designed with modern, high-end materials, each home features dual balconies for effortless indoor–outdoor living and is set among lush gardens and shared green spaces that invite connection and calm. With Long Bay Village’s vibrant community and amenities right on your doorstep, Elementum offers the perfect balance of coastal serenity and city convenience through homes designed for family living, relaxation, and everyday ease. Fully staged homes available for viewing. Visit website for open home times.
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North Harbour Club to host Prime Minister for Lunch
Lexus of North Shore Charity Lunch – North Harbour Stadium, Thursday 12th March
The North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust are thrilled to be hosting the New Zealand Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, for lunch on Thursday 12 March. This continues a rich history of the organisation having the Prime Minister of the day as the guest speaker at its popular fundraising charity lunches over three decades, since 1995.
The Prime Minister will provide a State of the Nation address at the lunch being held at North Harbour Stadium. The lunch will be emceed by Rachel Smalley and will also include an induction into the North Harbour Business Hall of Fame, sponsored by Milford Asset Management.
Christopher Luxon is the 42nd Prime Minister of New Zealand. He is also the Minister for National Security and Intelligence and the Minister Responsible for Ministerial Services. He entered Parliament at the 2020 election as the MP for Botany and was elected Leader of the National Party in November 2021.
Prior to entering Parliament, Christopher was Chief Executive Officer of Air New Zealand from 2013 to 2019. Prior to joining Air New Zealand, Christopher spent 18 years working at multinational consumer products company Unilever, in New Zealand, Australia, the UK, the USA and Canada.
Christopher has a Master of Commerce in Business Administration from the University of Canterbury. He is married to Amanda, and they have two adult children.
Lexus of North Shore Charity Lunch – North Harbour Stadium, Thursday 12th March, from 11.45am. Tickets $169pp plus GST or $1,690 plus GST for a table of 10.
To book visit northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz
AI for Breakfast with guest speaker Justin Flitter
Tuesday 17th February, from 7am at Regatta Bar & Eatery Takapuna
Justin Flitter is the guest speaker at the North Harbour Club’s Business Excellence Network (BEN) Breakfast this month. Justin has been a leading voice in New Zealand's Al scene since founding NewZealand.Al in 2017. Over the last eight years he's helped thousands of Kiwi businesses discover why, where and how to leverage Al through practical workshops and training.
A long-time community builder, Justin also chairs the NZ Tech Marketers Group and helps produce and emcee TEDxAuckland. He's behind initiatives such as the Great NZ Al Roadshow and serves as a director at Business Mentors New Zealand.
Justin will help you move beyond Al theatre and into real business impactleveraging curiosity, critical thinking, and a practical plan to pull the value levers that matter.
You'll see what Al can do today, how Kiwi companies are creating a competitive moat with it, and the tools + workflows to redesign your operating logic so Al becomes how the business runs.
Justin's style is energetic, insightful, and always focused on giving business audiences actionable next steps.
Tickets $69 plus GST per person. Bookings essential. You can book online at northharbourclub.co.nz or via email to info@northharbourclub.co.nz.
Rt Hon Christopher Luxon
Justin Flitter
Shore ON THE Eating Out
Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.
Devonport
Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant
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
Vondel
Independent owner-operated eatery on Devonport’s main street, serving wine, beer and spirits from like-minded small local producers - we champion products by people we know and respect. Our menu has a Korean twist, serving a wide variety of foods suitable for meat eaters, vegans and everyone in between. We host events like winemakers' dinners, fundraisers, makers' markets and live music nights. Follow our socials for updates. Open 7 days, from 10am - late. hello@vondel.co.nz, vondel.co.nz 0275 144 924 instagram Instagram @vondel_akl facebook facebook.com/vondelakl
Regatta Bar & Eatery Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
DEVONPORT
So French Café
Housed in Devonport’s charming Old Post Office, So French Café offers a taste of France with freshly baked pastries, gourmet crêpes and rich coffee. Marylène, Quentin and their team are excited to share their passion for French cuisine, serving homemade breakfast and lunch. Stop by for a delicious experience! Now open for dinner every second Friday of the month.
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
DEVONPORT
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz
Wok 'n Noodle
1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com
Smales Farm, Takapuna
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
SMALESFARM
Gather Eatery
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
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.
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
Tok Tok
Benny's
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!
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Contact the team today WANT YOUR CAFÉ/ RESTAURANT TO BE NOTICED?
Liz Cannon: liz@channelmag.co.nz 021 204 3395
Kim McIntosh: kim@channelmag.co.nz 021 419 468
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
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
Strand Wine Bar
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
Open: 11am - Late - Everyday facebook: Benny's American Burgers NZ instagram: bennysamericanburger.nz bennysburgers.co.nz
French Rendez-Vous
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday (no bookings needed) with traditional and authentic French flavours like beef bourguignon, gluten-free galettes and sweet crêpes.
Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.
2a Manurere Avenue
Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009 facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
Hanoi Haven
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.
An iconic North Shore landmark known for its authentic ‘craic’ and welcoming atmosphere. A premiere destination for: Live entertainment: Pub bands every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights
Hearty fare: Classic menu including Irish favourites, burgers and pizzas
Live sports: Multiple large screens showing major matches
Social vibe: Friendly ‘neighbourhood’ feel with fireplace, indoor/outdoor seating and pub games like pool, darts, along with a comfortable gaming lounge.
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!
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
Taylors on Hurstmere
Yellow Hour
St Marée Bistro
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre. Perfect for private parties, no venue hire! Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night! Winner Lewisham Awards, Outstanding Local Establishment, Auckland North.
Winner Lewisham Awards 2024
Outstanding Local Establishment North 168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510
Licenced Eatery
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
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
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Al Forno
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.
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
Dante’s by Enis Baçova
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."
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
BROWNSBAY
21 Days Bar & Brasserie
Tantalise your taste buds with the best steak experience at this beautiful venue in Browns Bay. Explore the impressive selection of cuts sourced from New Zealand, Australia, and Japan, where great pride is taken in using the highest quality ingredients, matched with a carefully curated wine and beverage list. The friendly team provides top-notch catering services, taking care of your special events, cocktail parties, corporate events, conferences, birthdays, anniversaries, and Christmas functions.
37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz
Long Bay Surf Club
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
I am pleased to announce that I will be joining Skinscape 360, an innovative new skin cancer clinic opening in Takapuna, alongside Associate Professor Richard Martin.
Skinscape 360 represents a significant advancement in skin cancer care in New Zealand, bringing together specialist clinical expertise with cutting-edge technology, including 3D total body photography and artificial intelligence. This integrated approach enables earlier detection, more precise monitoring, and a truly patient-centred experience.
I am excited to be part of a clinic that is redefining how skin cancer is detected and managed, and setting a new benchmark for excellence in care.
Your holiday doesn’t have to be over just because you’re back at work! Summer is still in full swing here in Takapuna. With sunny days, long warm nights, and a heap of interesting activities to do close to home, grab your friends and family and keep the summer vibes rolling.
Hit the beach
Voted one of Auckland’s favourite beaches, Takapuna Beach is the place to go for fun in the sun.
With soft white sand, warm glistening water, and a lush grassy reserve with a super-cool playground for the kids, there’s no better place to relax, unwind and soak up the rays. Pack a picnic, grab an ice cream, and enjoy these spectacular summer days at Takapuna Beach.
Take to the water
Nothing beats a refreshing dip in the ocean on a hot day, and Takapuna Beach is a safe and stunning swimming beach. It’s also the perfect spot for some on-the-water activities. Try something new and take a Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) lesson with Girls Get Out There, or get the adrenaline going by hiring a jetski from the boat ramp from Takapuna Jetski Hire! Or you could head down to Lake Pupuke and enjoy a windsurfing lesson with the team at Madloop. There are so many other fun ways to cruise the water in Takapuna, including kayaking, boating or a good old ocean swim.
Dine outdoors
With stunning sea views, sunshine and fresh air, outdoor dining in Takapuna is a real pleasure. There’s a huge array of dining options, with bars and restaurants covering all types of cuisines. Whether it’s a quick snack to go with a bevvy in the sun, a leisurely lunch or a full dining experience, come down after work or on your day off and treat your taste buds to some fine Takapuna hospitality.
Shop ‘til you drop
For high-end boutique shopping, look no further than Hurstmere Road. Take a wander and enjoy the refreshing sea air while getting your fashion fix. Or if you want to cool down a little, head to the airconditioned Shore City shopping centre for a one-stop shopping experience with over 50 stores conveniently located under one roof.
Use your legs
Takapuna has no shortage of walking tracks for your weekend workout. And if you want to get in a bit of exercise for your furry friends too, why not organise a dog-walking date at Takapuna Beach? Your canine mates will love frolicking in the waves and chasing sticks in the sand. Or get your pedal power on and enjoy the sights of Takapuna from your bike. Cruise down to Devonport for the afternoon along the picturesque Takapuna to Devonport path.
For more information on all the places to eat, drink, shop, entertain and treat yourself this summer, check out our full business directory on our website, as well as all the awesome places to go and things to do in Takapuna: ilovetakapuna.co.nz.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…
Crafting the perfect date in Takapuna
When you need a date night that is destined to delight, there is only one answer: Takapuna. It is Auckland’s seaside dream designed for two. Delivering pure, summer romance with a sparkling view and gentle waves. Everything here is within walking distance, so you can take your date from beach stroll to dining and dessert. Here’s our recipe for a perfect North Shore date night.
Coastal charm
Meet your special someone for a romantic walk on the beach. The clean, white sand and waves are the ideal atmosphere. You might even feel like the star of your own seaside rom-com.
Location tip: Start near the boat ramp end of the beach. This area offers stunning, uninterrupted views across the Hauraki Gulf towards Rangitoto – the perfect photo opportunity (or just an excuse to hold hands).
Beachfront dining
After working up an appetite, transition to dinner without losing that coastal vibe. Takapuna excels at beachfront dining, offering delicious spots right across from the sand. If you’re looking for the “night on the town” dining experience, it’s an easy wander up to Hurstmere Road with every dining option you could want.
Location tip: Choose Regatta Bar & Eatery for a prime table overlooking the water. It offers an upmarket seafood experience, making it the perfect splurge for someone special. (Bonus points if you catch the sunset glow reflecting off your wine glass!)
The town centre stroll
Keep the momentum going. It’s time to explore the town centre. Stroll the shops. Enjoy a slow walk. The quaint streets are a romantic delight, and there are plenty of bars to try out if you fancy stopping for a refreshment along the way.
Location tip: For the classic option, you could catch a movie. Takapuna Beachside cinema (on Anzac Street) offers a cosy, boutique cinema experience perfect for snuggling up.
The sweet conclusion (dessert)
End the date on a sweet note. There’s something undeniably charming about skipping a fancy dessert menu in favour of an impromptu street treat. Thinking ice cream or gelato? Movenpick is open until 10pm every night, and Duck Island is open ‘til 11!
Whatever your plans or interests, Takapuna has everything you need to fulfill your ideas for the best summer date night. If you need more ideas or inspiration, check out our full directory of businesses in Takapuna and the top things to do in Takapuna at ilovetakapuna.co.nz!
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
Regatta Bar & Eatery
Takapuna Beachside Cinemas
Hurstmere Road
Takapuna Beach
Duck Island
Movenpick
#supportlocal the
CRAVEHOME
Remember when you used to leave a sweet note for your love all the time? Then life, and all the little things that take up a lot of time happened. The little love notes are like momentary reminders of our love and connection. Simple everyday little message of love, like: " I appreciate you" or "let's do something fun today!" or even "I'm sorry!” and leave them next to a cup of coffee, on a pillow, or in a car – wherever! So keep the love, leave a note 30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 cravehome.co.nz
LIQUORLAND TAKAPUNA
Hunter's MiruMiru Non Vintage 750ml: RRP $32.99 PROMO Price $27.99. MiruMiru™, meaning bubbles in Māori, exhibits peach and citrus aromas, with an elegant palate blending peach/citrus chardonnay components, followed by light berry fruits of pinot noir.
Boatshed Bay Wines: RRP $17.99 or Buy Two for $25. Choose from three different variants - Sauv Blanc, Pinot Gris or Rosé - classic Marlborough wines. 182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770 takapuna@liquorland.co.nz liquorland.co.nz
YARNTONS
The Elm Blissful Chambray Shirt is soft, drapey and 100% cotton - an easy, flattering wardrobe staple this season. $109.95 18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011 69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 6639 facebook instagram @yarntons yarntons.co.nz
WALLACE COTTON
Embrace timeless layers that evoke a sense of the tropics with our Marrakech bedding. Stonewashed for an incredibly soft hand feel and relaxed look. 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
FLORIENNE
Saying ‘ I love you ‘ with flowers on Valentine’s or just because on any day. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
COSI FAN TUTTE
Bringing storybook whimsy to everyday moments, Danishdesigned Maileg toys are loved for their unique personalities, encouraging children to explore the wonder of imagination. Soft and cuddly, these bunnies are a Cosi favourite.
73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
THE PHOTO HUB – GLENFIELD MALL
DEPOT SHOP | TOI TOA
Our February Maker of the Month is Eva Kerer, a contemporary jewellery artist based in Whakatū (Nelson), whose work is a personal expression of care, love, and effort in handmade jewellery.
3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz, depot.org.nz 10am-4pm, Tues-Sun
Make Valentine’s Day personal. Turn your favourite memories into a meaningful gift. From photobooks and canvas prints to custom mugs and more. A gift they’ll treasure long after Valentine’s Day.
The Photo Hub - Glenfield Mall 09 217 2338 www.thephotohub.co.nz
ART IN MY WARDROBE
Your summer wardrobe awaits. This season, visit Art in My Wardrobe to explore breezy blues, relaxed stripes, and nature-inspired prints. They're perfect for summer catch-ups, sunny afternoons, and every moment in between.
30 Victoria Road, Devonport 022 355 3435 artinmywardrobe.co.nz
THE SHEEPSKIN FACTORY
Perfect 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
STRAND WINE BAR
Get it while you can! Sadly, this will be the last vintage of Grüner Veltliner for the father and son duo behind Eaton Wines. The vines are being ripped up in favour of more Sauvignon Blanc...why?! If you haven't tried Grüner before, this is a beautiful example of the popular Austrian grape and shows grapefruit and white peach flavours with crisp acidity. An easy transition for Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris lovers and a gorgeous wine to drink this summer. Strand Wine Bar, open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays.
4 The Strand, Takapuna, 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz
Investing in Takapuna’s future
Knight Crawford’s latest Takapuna project will further enhance the popular town square
At Channel Mag, it's no secret that we’ve always championed and celebrated fresh energy and investment in our local business areas – supporting local businesses is a key driver for us. So we love it when we hear about exciting new initiatives; when a local company continues to back Takapuna with bold new projects, we’re all in. Knight Crawford, led by Takapuna local Elliot
By Aidan Bennett
Knight, is once again putting its stamp on the heart of Hurstmere Road, right beside the popular Waiwharariki Anzac Square. The latest upgrade at 40 Hurstmere Road will open up the vibrant laneway eateries to the square and introduce a brand-new health and wellness precinct on the first floor, featuring 10 affordable studios designed for health and wellness practitioners.
A TRACK RECORD OF SHAPING TAKAPUNA
Knight Crawford has played a major role in several of Takapuna’s most noticeable highprofile enhancements and improvements in recent years. Notable examples are the refreshed hospitality, retail and office spaces in front of the Bruce Mason Centre at 150 Hurstmere Road, now home to favourites like Wallace Cotton, Daikoku and Café
An artist's impression of how the eateries at 40 Hurstmere will open up to Waiwharariki Anzac Square.
150 Hurstmere Road.
Laneway eateries at 40 Hurstmere.
Botanix. Knight Crawford is also behind the redevelopment at 111 Hurstmere Road, where the Takapuna Surf Club rooftop bar now shines as one of the suburb’s best new social hot spots, along with Premium Real Estate, House of Travel and O-Studio beneath, on the street at ground floor level.
Knight Crawford has also purchased the large corner site on Fred Thomas Drive and Des Swann Drive, where a major redevelopment is underway. The upcoming project includes retail and 10,000sqm of medical-related office space – already 85% leased – with a new Pak ’n Save planned across the road. It’s shaping up to be another strong hub for the area.
Elliot's newest town-centre investment at 40 Hurstmere Road is part of an even bigger vision. An exciting change that will come to fruition in coming weeks is opening up the eateries at 40 Hurstmere to the Takapuna town square (Waiwharariki Anzac Square). The town square has been a popular addition to Takapuna in recent years. The move to have eateries opening up to the square and the introduction of Padel courts (featured elsewhere in this issue) will only enhance its appeal.
A FRESH TAKE ON WELLNESS SPACES
When I caught up with Elliot in late December, he explained how the upstairs floor at 40 Hurstmere has also been cleverly transformed into compact (mostly 30sqm) turnkey health and well-being studios for solo practitioners. These studios suit business owners who want a modern, low risk setup with minimal upfront cost. Shared amenities, including a customer lounge, filtered water, coffee machine, lunchroom and bathrooms, add convenience without cutting into rented floor space.
“It’s a low risk model that minimises capital expenditure (capex) for tenants, offering a 'plug-and-play' fit out, allowing tenants to simply move in and get started,” says Elliot. “And it’s clearly hitting the mark, proving to be popular, with most of the studios already filled.”
OPENING THE EATERIES TO THE SQUARE
As already mentioned, downstairs at 40 Hurstmere, some of Takapuna’s most loved casual laneway dining spots, including El Humero, Hanoi Haven, Dante’s, Glass Sushi, Poke Poke, Roti Bros and Burger Burger, will benefit from extra seating and will open up some of these popular dining spots to direct access to the town square.
“We see this as being a win win for everyone,” explains Elliot. “Waiwharariki Anzac Square has been an excellent addition, already adding so much life to the area. Opening up the eateries to connect directly with the square will only enhance that beachy laneway and town square vibe for customers dining and for the eateries themselves.”
"We are excited about this change, and we know locals are as well. We feel that despite significant frustration and costly delays in obtaining resource and building consent, it will be well worth it in the end."
Plans are also afoot within the Burger Burger space. The team will be staying in the existing courtyard, which will be redeveloped to provide a completely new restaurant offering.
Well done to Elliot Knight and Knight Crawford on continuing to invest in Takapuna’s future. A summary of the businesses located at 40 Hurstmere is included on the following spread.
For more information visit: www.knightcrawford.com
An aerial view of 40 Hurstmere.
40 Hurstmere is right in the heart of Takapuna.
Takapuna Surf Club rooftop bar at 111 Hurstmere Road.
40 Hurstmere Eateries
Ground Floor
TAKIMI MAZESOBA
Offers a modern Japanese noodle experience, distinct from traditional ramen and without heavy broths. Built around Takimi’s signature noodle (whole-wheat and buckwheat) and house-crafted sauces using traditional Japanese techniques, each bowl is naturally higher in fibre and lower in sugar than refined white noodles, with toppings adjustable to taste, delivering a more balanced and satisfying expression of long-held Japanese food culture. Beyond the food, Takimi is known for its calm, Japanese-inspired layout that values privacy and comfort, making it especially welcoming for solo diners as well as couples and small groups.
POKÉ POKÉ
Poké Poké Takapuna is a long-standing local on Eat Street. For nine years, we’ve specialised in poké bowls as a Japanese–Hawaiian fusion style of dining. Poké is a fresh, balanced bowl built around quality seafood, vegetables, fruit and rice. Rather than a traditional set menu, we focus on build-your-own bowls, with ingredients chosen to suit individual tastes and everyday meals. Fresh, simple, and ingredient-led – just made your way, every day.
DANTE'S
Pizza contemporanea and casa pasta – born in Naples, raised in New Zealand. Award-winning pizzaiolo Enis Baçova brings pizza contemporanea to life at Dante’s Takapuna: slowfermented dough, airy crusts, and Neapolitan soul. Signature pizzas and daily house-made pasta meet fine Italian wines. Ranked Top 10 Asia-Pacific, Top 50 worldwide (50 Top Pizza), Silver Winner Caputo Cup 2024 Naples. "We don't serve food – we serve stories, baked in fire."
HANOI HAVEN
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.
GLASS SUSHI
On Takapuna’s sunlit shoreline, Glass Sushi Boutique is where freshness meets flair. From perfectly seasoned rice to premium cuts of salmon and tuna, every piece is crafted with care and consistency. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, catering for the office, or indulging in a relaxed dine-in moment, expect bold flavours, friendly service, and beautifully presented sushi that keeps locals coming back for more. A must-visit for true sushi lovers.
EL HUMERO
El Humero delivers an authentic culinary experience that celebrates the classic, rustic flavours of Colombia. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel as though you’ve been magically transported to Colombia through our mouth-watering, Colombian-style barbecue dishes, freshly prepared over traditional wood-fired and charcoal grills. “Our home is your home” - we promise more than just great food - we offer the warmth, hospitality, and unforgettable flavours of the Colombian people, leaving you with a lasting taste of Colombia in every bite.
Laneway eateries at 40 Hurstmere.
40 Hurstmere Wellness
1st Floor
STUDIO SWEAT
Studio Sweat is a wellness studio offering private infrared sauna and contrast therapy suites designed to restore the body and mind. Rooted in community and care, we offer a calm, refined environment where you can move with intention and return to yourself, physically and mentally. Our offering provides a range of benefits, including detoxification, muscle and joint recovery, and overall immune support. Through heat and cold, our rituals are designed to reduce tension, support circulation, and calm the nervous system - helping you feel clearer, stronger and more resilient. Whether you come to sweat or to chill, our space is here to help you feel your best - one session at a time.
SOCIETY SKIN
Designed for those who appreciate quiet luxury and real results, Society Skin is a Takapuna-based skin studio specialising in advanced facials and skin treatments. Founder Gemma Nilson brings a refined, personalised approach to skin health, blending corrective treatment work with a deeply calming experience for both men and women.
TAHL COSMETICS
Situated in the heart of Hurstmere Studios, Tahl Cosmetics is home to Takapuna’s newest semi-permanent makeup space, thoughtfully designed to deliver the highest quality results in the cosmetic tattoo industry. Backed by over 10 years of experience, founder Tahlia Knowles combines the latest techniques, premium products, and a personalised approach to enhance natural beauty. Renowned for her signature brow enhancements and expertly defined lip contouring, Tahlia’s work is recognised for its artistry, timeless results, and detail-driven approach, leaving clients cared for over the course of their treatment journey.
CACI TAKAPUNA
At Caci Takapuna, we love what we do! We make skin confidence achievable for our customers so they can look and feel their best. Our focus is on providing long-term, resultsfocused solutions rather than short-term, temporary results. Caci customers know they will always receive the best professional care, with our highly trained staff using the best technologies and treatment solutions in the industry. From relaxing facials to advanced skin treatments, body shaping, cosmetic injectables and laser treatments, our team provides tailored solutions to help you achieve glowing, healthy skin in a welcoming space.
VELVAERE LYMPHATIC
Velvaere specialises in lymphatic drainage massage and sculpting rituals designed to restore, rebalance, and reconnect you. A refined approach to body contouring, this treatment combines precision lymphatic drainage massage with cupping and red and near-infrared light therapy to sculpt, smooth, and de-puff the body from within. By enhancing fluid movement, reducing inflammation, and supporting cellular repair, it helps define natural contours while leaving you feeling lighter, tighter, and deeply restored. Each session is intentionally paced and highly personalised, working with the body’s natural rhythms to encourage detoxification, improve circulation, and awaken the lymphatic system. More than a cosmetic treatment, it is a nervous-system-soothing ritual that supports long-term wellbeing, resilience, and radiant vitality. Designed for those who want visible results with a holistic edge. New clients receive a sculpt cup to take home with any treatment to continue their lymphatic care at home.
GLOW WITH PEDJA
Located on Hurstmere Road in the heart of Takapuna, you'll find our top-rated boutique hair salon. Offering a truly elevated beauty experience, artistry and world-class service come together under one artistic, creative canopy. With more than 15 years of experience across Europe and New Zealand, Pedja’s journey from senior stylist to creative director has been inspired by a simple belief - true beauty is not only about how you look, but also about how you feel. At Glow with Pedja, every client is unique and can expect an in-depth consultation, bespoke colour, precision cuts and transformative styling. Our aim is to help you achieve the vision you hold for your hair. We want you to leave our salon glowing inside and out - as we believe that transformation begins with professional connection and then evolves into confidence.
HINT & HEAL
At Hint & Heal, Erin O’Hara combines her knowledge of naturopathy and science to provide an integrative and evidence-based approach to wellbeing. She has a passion for health and has been involved in the health and well-being industry for more than 20 years through extensive study and scientific research. Her functional medicine approach addresses the underlying causes of disease through testing and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence your health and cause disease. Erin provides customised wellness plans based on your medical history, will review and recommend laboratory testing as needed, and provide you with the outline of a health plan, along with nutritional and dietary recommendations as required.
ENJOY THE EASE OF COASTAL LIVING
BRAND‑NEW APARTMENTS READY IN MARCH
Set close to the beautiful Waitematā coastline and beside the wide green spaces of Te Kori Scott Point Park, Keith Park Village blends coastal calm with modern convenience in the heart of Hobsonville.
The last of our parkside apartments will be ready to move into next month, with plans available to view now.
These two and three bedroom apartments have been thoughtfully designed with seamless indoor–outdoor flow, leading to a covered patio or balcony with views over Te Kori Scott Point Park, the Waitematā Harbour, or the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Apartments priced from $695,000.
Discover the Ryman lifestyle.
To find out more call Nicolle on 09 416 0750 or visit rymanhealthcare.co.nz/keith-park
KEITH PARK VILLAGE
3 Scott Road, Hobsonville
Padel is coming to Takapuna’s Town Square
Padel courts under way in Takapuna’s Waiwharariki Anzac Square. Back in our September issue we included a feature on Pacific Padel and their plans to install three Padel courts in central Takapuna, on the town square. As this issue was going to print these were taking shape and are due to open during February.
The three Takapuna Padel courts are being installed as part of the town square site next to the main Takapuna bus stop area and Cousin Scott’s family restaurant and sports bar.
“We are planning to have these three Takapuna courts in action in the second half of February,” said Julian Brown, CEO of Pacific Padel, in late January. “We have had some delays, as often happens with these type of projects, but things are now all go and once in action they will be great for the community and add to the vibrancy of the central Takapuna area.”
Booking a court and playing Padel in Takapuna will be very easy. It will be administered via an easy-to-use global app, called Playtomic. The app will process payments and also includes the facility for players of all levels to develop a ranking score, so they play against other similarly talented (or not) Padel players. So you will be able to book a court to play with friends or book a court to play with players of a similar level.
Julian Brown
…things are now all go and once in action they will be great for the community and add to the vibrancy of the central Takapuna area.
“Padel is played as doubles and it’s faster to pick up than any other racket sport,” added Julian Brown, when talking about the sport he has come to love. “There’s less running, more hitting and longer rallies. The whole game is more suited to general enjoyment than tennis, and it’s also great for racket players who think their playing days are over.
Visit: pacificpadel.com
An artist's impression of the Takapuna Padel courts
#Gramworthy
Our round up of posts from local Northcote spots on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Kirstein from @northartnz
Northart is a leading contemporary public art facility in Northcote Town Centre, located on Ernie Mays Street in the former Northcote Citizens Hall until 2027 with the exciting development of Northcote’s new community hub. The gallery is made possible through generous support from Auckland Council, Kaipātiki Local Board, The Lion Foundation, and Birkenhead Licensing Trust. Kirstein McKendry is the newly appointed Art in the Community Lead at Northart and brings over 15 years of experience across galleries, public art, and community engagement. She’s passionate about connecting people with creativity, strengthening bicultural practice, and making art accessible to all, and talks to Channel about art, social media and what’s on at the gallery.
Channel Mag: Tell me a little bit about Northart, what’s the origin story?
Kirstein McKendry: Northart was established in 1998 and has a long and respected history in Northcote, exhibiting a wide range of local and national artists of notable talent and standing in their fields. Currently, based in our 26m² gallery (a smaller footprint than our previous space) while the redevelopment of Northcote Town Centre is underway, alongside exhibitions in the gallery we are very eager to engage public space, experimenting and collaborating in new locations all over the Kaipātiki area, making art happen in unexpected places. The next big chapter in our history will be Northart moving into the new community hub in 2027.
Is Instagram a source of inspiration for Northart? Who do you recommend following and why?
For galleries and artists it's a fantastic opportunity to get work out, see others' practices, and connect. I recommend following local artists and galleries to stay up to date with what is going on in the visual arts. We recommend @hollimcentegart.studio to keep up to date on what is coming up at Ngakinga, a yearlong public art project growing natural dye plants. Instagram is so helpful for documenting public sculpture in the outdoor setting of an ever-changing garden.
Which other local businesses or artists do social media well?
Matt Liggins (@matt_liggins) and Dr Foothead (@drdfoothead), who exhibited their exuberant drawing practices at Northart in early January, have energetic and experimental social media presences. I've spent many enjoyable hours exploring their unique practices, which have come together in the collaboration 'Double Poutama'. The artwork merges Liggins's architectural expertise with a physical cube that serves as a portal to a captivating virtual reality world crafted by Dr Foothead. This collaboration culminated in an exhibition here at the gallery and drawing activation in the town centre, and we're looking to continue working with these two artists in the public realm in the coming year so please stay tuned.
Lake House Arts is very active on social media. Always with something happening art-wise (@lakehousearts). Moreno café in Northcote’s socials are lovely. Wonderful coffee and amazing Filipino-inspired cafe food, always great (@moreno.akl)
What’s happening at Northart that you want locals to know about?
Ngakinga is a participatory social sculpture created by Holli McEntegart in collaboration with Charmaine Bailie (Te Uri o Hau – Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara) and the local community. The project nurtures interconnectedness, collaboration, and ecosystems of care – a living laboratory for taiao, creativity, and natural dyeing practices. Workshops run until the end of March, and everyone is welcome to visit the garden and create hand-dyed fabric artworks.
The community will be tending the garden until the end of March with an exhibition running that month at Northart. Please visit our website for further information and to sign up to free workshops. You can also follow along on Instagram @hollimcentegart.studio to see the garden's journey unfold.
1 Ernie Mays Street Te Kopua o Matakamokamo, Northcote Town Centre
The team is back and ready for 2026. We love this place and can’t wait for the next meal here.
If you’re looking for a local team for your next event tan or beauty treatment, look no further. Much loved by locals and great regular instagram updates. @_thestudionz
Kirstein McKendry
Making an impact and changing lives
The North Shore RDA is recognised for their good works
In November last year at North Harbour stadium, a new award was announced at the Harbour Sport Excellence Awards: the Community Impact Award. The inaugural winner was North Shore Riding for the Disabled. To help celebrate their achievement, Channel Mag spoke to North Shore RDA’s committee president Christine Fallas, about the award and what’s next for the charity.
Channel Mag: How did it feel to be recognised with this prestigious award?
Christine Fallas: We were thrilled to be chosen by Harbour Sport for this honour. Our programmes, and the fact that they really do change lives, are the result of 50 years of amazing work by so many volunteers and staff. This award is thanks to them, and, even more especially, thanks to our riders, who each give so much when they come to a riding session.
What does the experience you provide mean to your riders?
For our riders, taking part is more than just getting physical exercise; they also feel more empowered as they achieve new goals. Each rider has their own individual goals, with a programme tailored specifically to them, and they are assisted by our coaching team and our purposetrained horses. They really are remarkable horses – we often see a very special bond develop between a horse and a young rider.
One example of this is one of our young riders, Charlotte, who really looks forward to seeing Lenny, the horse she usually rides. Charlotte faces huge physical challenges in her everyday life, spending much of her time confined to a wheelchair, so for her to be able to be high up on a pony is a really special event. She brings real energy and enjoyment to every riding session, and our volunteers who work with her love every minute. Charlotte has made huge progress as a result of her visits to North Shore RDA; she has been both happily stimulated by the exercise and calmed by the interactions with the horse. The rhythmic walk of the horse has helped her improve her posture, and she has worked on her speech so she can now tell Lenny to “move on”.
What has changed over the years at Riding for the Disabled?
In the early days of North Shore RDA, we used various locations for our riding and all of them were leased or loaned, so we had no security of tenure. Around 25 years ago, the committee decided it was time for a more settled location and, primarily through a grant from the ASB Community Trust (now Foundation North), we were able to buy 10 acres of land in Stillwater, where we still ‘work our magic’. In recent years, we have created a car park for volunteers, a sensory trail, and most recently, managed to raise funds (over $600,000!) to put a cover over our riding arena, which means we can operate even when it rains – and we all know how often that happens in Auckland!
What are you focused on next?
Our vision statement is ‘Reach More Riders – Change More Lives’. We expanded our operating hours a few years back and now work four days each week during term times. We would like to add a further day to that, but the barriers are cost, access to even more volunteers, and having an NZRDA-qualified coach available.
How can our readers help?
An ongoing focus is always our funding. Our operating cost for the year is around $180,000, of which we only raise around $60,000 per annum through rider fees, leaving more than $100,000 to find every year. Given that we receive no government funding, it’s always a tough hill to climb. We were excited last year to sign up our first-ever corporate sponsor – Kalmar Construction, a wonderful company based in Takapuna – and we would like to supplement their involvement with additional sponsors who see the value in what we do for the local disabled community. In addition to corporate sponsorship, we have opportunities on our website to sponsor a horse, fund a lesson or a volunteer’s training, gift products or services to us, or donate your trade expertise, among a host of other options. Or you could become a volunteer yourself – volunteers assist our staff with riding sessions, help maintain the buildings and land and help manage the health of the horses. As long as you’re physically fit (we can walk up to 10km per day), there’s bound to be a job we can train you to do.
Use the QR code to donate today, or find out more about helping these young riders at northshorerda.org.
Charlotte and Lenny
Helen Hughes, NSRDA, Bridget Leonard, Chair, Harbour Sport Trust Board, Tim Lofts, NSRDA
The Hibiscus Coast’s premier, luxury, resort-style retirement village
Brand new luxury one, two, and three bedroom villas and apartments. The Botanic’s homes are light-filled sanctuaries surrounded by manicured gardens, ambling pathways, and architecturally designed wellness amenities. Pop into The Clubhouse Café while you’re here – it’s where our community comes to life!
Two bedroom apartments from $945k | Two bedroom villas from $1.295m
Over the Open Weekend we’ll be sharing a number of limited-time offers on selected villas and apartments. As an added bonus, any applications signed before 1 April 2026 will also receive one year of village fees at no cost!
CONTACT MICHELLE AND KATHRYN
We’d love to show you around The Botanic’s available properties and awardwinning amenities. Get in touch to arrange a time for a personal one-on-one tour! 0508 268 264 | hello@thebotanic.co.nz | Find out more at thebotanic.co.nz
St Peter’s restored: Faith, welcome and a
For more than a century, St Peter’s Anglican Church has been part of the Takapuna landscape - a place of worship, music, gathering and care for generations of local people. From its beginnings as a small wooden church in the 1880s, St Peter’s has continued to grow and adapt alongside the community it serves.
In recent years, the church building itself was in need of significant renewal. What began as work to address a leaking roof became an opportunity to undertake a thoughtful and comprehensive restoration, guided by a desire to honour the past while preparing for the future. The completed work has refreshed the building while retaining its familiar character. Improvements include a new roof, upgraded wiring and lighting, improved acoustics and sound system, and a new cork floor. Long-awaited amenities such as bathrooms and a welcoming hospitality area have also been added. The hospitality space includes a small kitchenette and audio-visual facilities with a large screen, making it well-suited for gatherings, meetings and community events. Throughout the project, care has been taken to respect the church’s heritage and preserve its sense of calm, beauty and sacredness.
This restoration has been made possible through the generosity and commitment of many people - parishioners, donors, designers, builders and volunteers - who have worked together with a shared vision of St Peter’s as a place of welcome and service for Takapuna. Looking ahead, St Peter’s hopes to continue offering a space where faith is nurtured, creativity encouraged, and community connections strengthened. The renewed building enables wider use by local groups and musicians, while remaining a place for worship, reflection and celebration. All are welcome to contact the office to enquire about hiring the beautiful new spaces.
To mark this new chapter, the church will open its doors to the community on Sunday 15 March, with an open home from 4pm and a concert of celebration in word, music and song from 7.30–8.30pm. The wider community is warmly invited to visit, enjoy the music, and experience the renewed St Peter’s.
St Peter's Anglican Takapuna 11 Killarney Street office@takapunaanglican.co.nz takapunaanglican.co.nz
fresh new
St Peter's Takapuna Community Celebration - a journey of faith, hope and love
chapter
Sunday 15 March, 7.30pm-8.30pm, with an 'Open Home' from 4pm
Experience the story of St Peter's told through words, images and music - from the little wooden church of 1883 to the beautiful, renewed St Peter's Church of today. All warmly welcome!
Concert of Celebration Words • Images • Music
Sunday 15 March 7.30 – 8.30pm
Open Home from 4pm All welcome
St Peter’s Anglican Church, Takapuna
Rev Nathan de Senna and Penny Roberts
Rev Nathan de Senna, Trudy Warin and Sue Thomas
Rev Nathan de Senna and Emily Chesterfield
St Peter's Anglican Church, 1959
The first St Peter's Church, 1883
By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
The easy way to send passports internationally
Pack & Send Takapuna is your "one stop shop" for all your international freight needs.
We export and import documents, send and return passports: We use express and secure document sending services. Just bring your documents and passport into us and we provide document satchels, arrange the courier, and our services are fully trackable.
Yes, we can assist with visa and immigration documents pick up and return from overseas embassies. We have a dedicated and pretty unique service called ‘Send & Return’ just for passports and important documents.
Have you purchased something online from abroad and need to arrange a courier delivery to New Zealand yourself? Finding eBay shipping too slow? Our import services include collection from almost any part of the globe and delivery to your door here in New Zealand for a competitive price.
Some of you may experience difficulty getting a seller or sender to arrange shipments from overseas because they’re concerned about duties and taxes. Pack & Send can assist with any potential hassles!
Pack & Send knows how to navigate this often-challenging process. Onerous regulations and paperwork can make importing goods from overseas a difficult task. Our import courier service will make these logistics smoother sailing for you or your business. We streamline the customs clearance and other associated details and keep you up to date on your package’s whereabouts every step of the way.
Need an import freight forwarder? Importing goods to New Zealand with us can save you time and money compared to doing this yourself and arranging for a seller to export a product from the country of origin.
Pack & Send provides logistics solutions for large businesses as well as small volume shipments. We ensure a safe and timely delivery of your freight at an even more competitive price than ever before.
When you need to import/export overseas to any country you can rely on Pack & Send's experience to package it and get it delivered, safely.
Pack & Send provides service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles.
Pack & Send Takapuna open Monday – Saturday, 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.
Pack & Send Takapuna
77 Barry’s Point Rd, Takapuna
Phone: 09 486 3355
Email: takapuna@packsend.co.nz
www.packsend.co.nz
(09) 486 3355
By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation
Three generations, one purpose: Giving back to our hospital
This holiday season, we had the pleasure of welcoming the Redford family to North Shore Hospital, giving them the opportunity to see firsthand the difference their generosity over the past few years has made for patients, families and staff. It was a privilege to meet three generations of a family united in philanthropy, whose shared commitment to giving back has directly enhanced care at our local hospital.
The Redford family's support is deeply personal. Their decision to fundraise for North Shore Hospital is a way of honouring the care their loved ones have received, and of acknowledging the vital role our hospital plays in the community. The first project the family championed was the Healing Garden in the new surgical and medical hospital building, which opened in mid-2024. Robyn was motivated to support fundraising for the Healing Garden in memory of her late husband, Lindsay Crocker, who passed away at North Shore Hospital in May 2023. She rallied friends, and soon the whole Redford family had jumped on board.
The fundraising efforts were made especially memorable by Robyn's granddaughter, Camille. Despite living in Australia, Camille was determined to help. At just five years old, she painted 30 artworks, which she sold to friends and family. Camille's enthusiasm inspired the wider family, with her father Scott contributing and persuading all the members of his international sports syndicate to chip in. While visiting Robyn over the holidays, the Melbourne-based Redford family were finally able to visit the hospital and see the Healing Garden they had helped make possible. Eighteen months after opening, the garden continues to nurture the well-being of patients, staff and visitors.
The Redford family's generosity has not stopped there. Most recently, they funded a new AccuVein vein finder for the Emergency Department. This innovative technology helps clinicians better visualise veins, making it easier and less stressful to insert lines or administer medication, particularly for children, older adults, and patients with hard-to-access veins.
It is truly inspiring to see three generations of one family embrace philanthropy and give back. On behalf of everyone who benefits from this support, we are deeply grateful to the Redford family and to all who support our local hospital through the Well Foundation.
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
Robyn, Sylvie, Camille, Scott and Karyn Redford
Accuvein vein finder
Garth Ellingham rang me in the middle of 2025 to ask my advice about standing for the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board.
I was chuffed to get the call and thrilled that a relatively young person was thinking about putting their hand up for the community. My advice to Garth was do it. What I didn’t tell him was that I thought he had no chance of being elected, being a relatively unknown independent candidate. But stand he did, and I was very surprised and also thrilled when he was elected with a very strong mandate.
I have made no secret of my personal belief that local board members should not stand time and time again and become a fixture in the role. I believe it is much healthier for people to do a maximum of two terms (six years) and then let others have a go. It should not be a career. I caught up with Garth during December to see how Local Board life was going, what his aims are for the term, and to introduce Channel Mag readers to one of our newest (and youngest) local board members.
By Aidan Bennett
A chat with (new local board member)
Garth Ellingham
What made you decide to stand and what did you mean by your campaign message… I'm frustrated with politics and the lack of progress. I believe it’s time for younger voices to step up?
That message obviously came from a place of frustration, but also care. I care deeply about people and the environment, and I feel like we aren’t heading in the right direction. Like a lot of people, I see the same issues being talked about again and again, but not enough progress being made.
I’m a big believer that if you’re unhappy with something, you shouldn’t just sit around complaining about it, you should try to do something about it. Too often at the moment we have plenty of keyboard warriors, but not enough people willing to put their hand up, get involved, and take responsibility. For me, that
was the core of my campaign message about choosing to care.
When I talked about younger voices stepping up, it wasn’t about age for the sake of it. It was about bringing in new perspectives, more diversity, and people who are willing to challenge how things have always been done. Politics can feel intimidating, and people are often warned off getting involved, but I felt that using that as an excuse was a cop-out.
Standing was my way of backing my own words. Instead of sitting on the sidelines frustrated, I wanted to step up, do the work, and hopefully encourage others to do the same.
Did you think you would be elected? Yes, quietly I did. I’m confident in my own abilities, so I wouldn’t put my hand up unless I
believed I had a genuine chance of getting in. I looked at the situation and asked myself who I would vote for and what I was looking for in leadership, and a lot of it came from frustration at not seeing what I felt was missing.
You must be thrilled with the result?
Yes, I’m obviously thrilled with the result. Running as an independent and doing this for the first time, I knew I was taking a bit of a risk and probably surprising a few people. I didn’t follow a lot of the usual campaign playbooks, partly because I hadn’t done this before and partly because I had limited time and resources. I just did it my own way, with the philosophy that if it worked, it was meant to be. What made it especially meaningful was realising the result reflected not just me, but my family, my friends, and the connections
we’ve built in this community over many years. There was a real sense of trust from people backing me, and having them come up genuinely excited about the outcome was incredibly rewarding. In a way, it was a really nice reinforcement of hope that doing things authentically can still pay off.
Why do you think you polled so strongly?
I think people were looking for an alternative to the status quo. I wasn’t coming from a political background, and I showed up as myself, which I think came across as genuine. Being independent helped, and I also ran the campaign my own way. Even things like the sign on my car gave people a laugh. It started conversations, and I think a bit of humour goes a long way. I’m not afraid to have a laugh, and I think that made it feel more approachable. At the heart of it, my campaign had a strong focus on the ocean and the coastline. Many people choose to live here because of that connection, and wanting to protect it is something that really resonated. I think that combination of authenticity, humour, and shared values helped people relate to what I was standing for.
What have been your first impressions of Local Board life?
It’s definitely been a bit of a baptism of fire. Coming from outside this space, it feels like being thrown in the deep end, with a huge amount of information and procedure to get
across very quickly. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes that most people never see. Like any new role, it’s full-on at first, but I back myself to learn fast, ask good questions, and make sound decisions. It’s been an intense introduction, but one I’m confident I’ll grow into quickly.
Being independent helped, and I also ran the campaign my own way. Even things like the sign on my car gave people a laugh.
What’s really stood out is the work council staff do. They often get a pretty raw deal publicly, but seeing how they support the board while staying neutral has been impressive, especially given the strong personalities around our table. Balancing that can’t be easy. I’ve also really enjoyed meeting community groups and volunteers doing
incredible work across the area. There’s so much good happening that I wasn’t fully aware of before, and it’s been genuinely inspiring to see the time and effort some people put into this community.
How do you intend to follow through on your election platforms?
I want to be approachable and visible, both out in the community and through channels like social media and my own website. People won’t always agree with my decisions, and that’s okay, but it’s important they understand my reasoning and how I arrived at them. There’s a fine line with engagement, especially online, so my focus is on clear, respectful communication and creating a constructive feedback loop.
Personally, I prefer real conversations. I’m someone who would rather sit down one-onone than go back and forth in a big public forum or online. Over time, I want to make it easier for people to share ideas or raise issues, so we can work on them quickly and make everyone feel like they’re contributing to improving this place.
What do you see as the key issues for the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board area?
I think the number one issue facing the Devonport–Takapuna Local Board area is how we handle urban intensification. Growth here is inevitable, and there’s a lot of opportunity for it, but the challenge is doing it
Garth Ellingham and Aidan Bennett
well. That means planning carefully, making sure infrastructure keeps up, and protecting the character of our neighbourhoods. As intensification increases, green spaces and our beaches become even more important. They play a huge role in community connection and in keeping people connected to the environment.
Closely linked to intensification is infrastructure, and this is a challenge we are already facing. Stormwater, wastewater, and transport are all coming under increasing pressure, and in many ways it feels like we are at a tipping point, particularly with stormwater and transport capacity. Stormwater is a major issue in our area, with sediment, pollution, and flooding impacting our waterways and the marine environment. While the Local Board doesn’t have decision-making authority over stormwater or wastewater, as these sit with Auckland Council, we do have to play an important role in advocating strongly to ensure planning and investment keep pace with growth. Transport is also critical. With changes to how Auckland Transport operates, Local Boards are expected to have more influence locally, and it will be interesting to see what decision-making capability we’re given and how effectively we can use it to manage the impacts of intensification.
The third key issue is cost pressures. Under Auckland Council’s Fairer Funding changes, the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board was one of the boards that was negatively impacted, and that’s something we’re now having to manage. Since taking office, we’ve been asked to reduce costs or find ways to meet our budget allocation. There’s no silver bullet. It means working with the community to be clear about priorities, decide which assets we protect and invest in, and identify where we can do things better. It also means continuing to advocate to Auckland Council to ensure the
funding model remains fair and reflects the real needs and pressures of our area.
Do you reckon we can ever fix Lake Road? Yes, I think it’s possible, but will everyone be happy? Probably not. Fixing Lake Road requires behavioural change. We can’t keep assuming that everyone can sit in a singleoccupancy car and that adding another lane will solve the problem. Lake Road is a constrained corridor. It’s not realistically going to get much wider, and it’s only going to get busier, so we have to use the space we have far more efficiently.
With changes to how Auckland Transport operates, Local Boards are expected to have more influence locally, and it will be interesting to see what decision-making capability we’re given…
I commute most days from Narrow Neck to Milford, and the fastest way for me to get there now is by pedal bike. E-bike and e-scooter technology is improving rapidly, and these options take up far less space than cars, but people still need to feel safe using them. This is the chicken-and-egg problem. We build compromised bike lanes, people say they’re not used, but they’re often not used because they don’t feel safe. At the same time, buses are stuck in the same traffic as cars, which makes them unreliable. If we want behaviour to change, both bikes and buses need clear,
prioritised space so people can see they actually work.
If you look at almost any major city in the world, people use buses, trams, bikes, and shared transport. They deal with hills, rain, and weather worse than ours. The difference is that those cities have made clear choices that prioritise movement over car storage. Change is uncomfortable, but when you’re sitting still on Lake Road and a bus or an e-bike goes past, it will make you rethink things.
What do you do to relax?
Basically anything on the water. It is my happy place. If the wind is up I love to jet off Narrow Neck Beach and wing or kite foil out past Rangitoto Lighthouse, escape and look back on the epic place we live. I also love to get away on a yacht with my friends and family cruising the Hauraki Gulf or further afield…
Favourite holiday destination in New Zealand?
Aotea/Great Barrier Island. It is a magical place to escape to.
Favourite holiday destination overseas?
Lake Garda, Italy. Stunning villages and so many things to do on the water and in the mountains.
What will you be doing over the summer holiday season?
Cruising the coast from the Bay of Islands back to Auckland on a yacht
Complete the following… After my first three-year term on the local I want to…. …be able to look back and say I was bold in pushing for change and delivered tangible improvements for our community and the environment.
Brand new and seriously for sale!
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Why travel agents still matter,
and why it won’t cost you more
In the age of online booking platforms, comparison websites and instant travel deals, it's a question I'm asked often: Do people still use travel agents?
The answer is a resounding yes.
People can also cook at home, yet restaurants continue to thrive, especially when the occasion is special. Travel works the same way. When holidays are meaningful, complex, or simply too important to leave to chance, many travellers still choose professional expertise.
One of the biggest misconceptions about using a travel agent is cost. Many assume it will be more expensive than booking online. In reality, this is rarely the case. Travel agents have access to industryonly rates, preferred supplier benefits, added inclusions and packaged pricing that often isn't visible online. More importantly, we help clients avoid costly mistakes, such as unnecessary upgrades, unsuitable locations, or restrictive booking conditions that can turn into expensive problems later.
But value isn't just measured in dollars.
Time is one of our most precious resources. Planning travel today can involve hours of research, conflicting reviews, confusing fare rules and endless decision fatigue. A travel agent simplifies the process. We listen first, understand what matters to you, and curate options that fit your travel style, budget and expectations. It's not about more choices, it's about the right ones.
Then there's peace of mind. When flights are cancelled, connections missed or plans disrupted, online booking engines offer little more than automated emails and hold music. A travel agent becomes your advocate, someone who knows your itinerary, understands your priorities, and has the industry contacts to resolve issues quickly and effectively. That support extends before you leave,
Celebrating 10 years Bringing the world to the North Shore.
while you're away, and even after you return home.
Travel is deeply personal. No two travellers are the same, and no itinerary should be either. The difference between a good trip and a great one is often found in the details: the timing, the location, the experience you didn't know to ask for.
So yes, people still use travel agents, not because they can't book travel themselves, but because they value expertise, personal service, and the confidence of knowing their journey is in capable hands.
Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
Budapest, Hungary
Family admiring the Geiranger fjord King George Island
South Africa & Victoria Falls
Milford main street full and set for a big year
Welcome to 2026 in Milford. We hope you are relaxed and refreshed after a break over the Christmas/New Year break, and looking forward to a wonderful year. We now have all the stores in the main street full – no vacancies – a sign that at least here in Milford, the economy has turned the corner for the better.
Just before Christmas, Skintopia opened next door to La Tropezienne. Skintopia specialises in results-driven skin treatments, including customised skin treatments, advanced peels, microneedling, IPL and LED light therapy. The studio also offers professional brow and lash services, waxing and relaxation massage — all delivered by highly trained professional skin therapists with a focus on long-term skin health.
The last vacant space, the old Post Office site, will welcome the grand opening of Sills + Co this month, on Thursday 12 February. This is a flagship store for the brand featuring a mini-department store design. A unique retail experience, each Sills + Co store is home to its own labels alongside a curated offering of accessories and homewares to create a truly luxurious life.
Vive La France, Saturday 21 March
Ensure you have this date in your calendar now for our very popular annual ‘French Themes’ market day in Milford, when the Milford and the wider North Shore community really comes alive to celebrate in French style!
Head of Harbour Regatta, Saturday 7 February
The Head of Harbour Rowing Regatta is heading into its 90th year and brings secondary schools from all over the North Island to Lake Pupuke for this all-day event. Organised by Takapuna Grammar School, you’ll see budding rowers, some of whom will no doubt go on to higher things. It’s a great day of rowing action!
The Milford Cruising Club is a popular venue for yachting events, and the club has secured this event for the latest sailing craze –windfoiling. There will be three days of high-speed, Olympic-class
competition from Friday through to Sunday. Elite all-action sailors from New Zealand, Australia, USA, Norway, Hong Kong and the Pacific with more than 40 of the leading domestic and international windfoil sailors.
It’s all go in Milford in 2026! Have a great February.
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
Sills + Co opens new main street fashion store
Sills + Co, the home of New Zealand labels Caroline Sills and Sills, is pleased to welcome Milford as the newest location to its family of retail stores across New Zealand.
A unique retail experience, each Sills + Co store is home to its own labels alongside a curated offering of accessories and homewares to create a truly luxurious life.
Sills + Co was founded by Caroline and Lloyd Sills in 1982, in Devonport, New Zealand. Today, the family business is in very good hands with daughters Toni and Christina heading sales, marketing and retail, and the talented Mandy Villars heading the design department.
Discover the new Autumn/Winter 2026 collections (and more) at the Milford store grand opening on Thursday 12 February.
Sills + Co – 115 Kitchener Road, Milford. www.sillsandco.com
Skintopia arrives in Milford
Skin expert Skintopia has recently joined the Milford neighbourhood, opening a brand new advanced skin studio in the heart of Kitchener Road.
Skintopia specialises in results-driven skin treatments, including customised skin treatments, advanced peels, microneedling, IPL and LED Light Therapy. The studio also offers professional brow and lash services, waxing and relaxation massage — all delivered by highly trained professional skin therapists with a focus on long-term skin health.
Skintopia is known for its high-tech, high-touch approach, combining advanced technology with personalised care to help clients achieve real skin results.
Heading into February can feel like an end to summer holiday fun for many people. Yet late summer and early autumn often gift us with great weather and long sunlit days. So hang on to those holiday fun vibes and fill your weekends (and a few mid-week evenings) with feelgood events. We’ve got all kinds of recommendations for you, both outdoors and indoors, because we won’t let the weather stop the fun on the Shore.
FESTIVALS
A local festival is a great way to join with your community to celebrate the last days of summer.
• Browns Bay Beach Summer Spectacular, 28 February, 10am–4pm; stalls and music continue till 7pm. Browns Bay beach reserve. family fun day includes live music, stalls, pony rides, inflatables, sandcastle sculpture competition and more!
Purchase a kids' activity wristband at the information station on the boardwalk for $10. (Pony rides end at 1pm) ourauckland. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/2026/02/ summer-spectacular/
• Mairangi Bay Food and Wine Festival, 14 March, 12pm–8pm, Mairangi Bay beachfront reserve. Live entertainment, fine wine and craft beers, food stalls from local eateries and food trucks, and kids' games. Not ticketed, but there are limited numbers on site, so don’t leave it too late. Buy a 2026 festival glass at the entry in order to purchase alcoholic drinks. mairangibayvillage.co.nz
FOOD AND WINE EVENTS
Try a new taste sensation at a food and wine event and enjoy eating and drinking outdoors with friends.
• Farro Smales Farm Food Truck Night, 12 February, 4.30pm-8pm. Enjoy live music, a selection of food trucks and a pop-up container bar. eventfinda.co.nz/2026/ farro-smales-farm-food-truck-night/ auckland/north-shore
• Rosé All Day, 21 February, 12pm-4pm. Multiple venues, Takapuna. Collect your wristband, tasting glass and food and wine vouchers from the registration point at Regatta Bar and Eatery, then wander through Takapuna to try the rosé wines showcased by different winemakers at each participating restaurant. Buy your ticket and vouchers at events.humanitix. com/rosealldaytakapuna2026
MARKETS AND EXPOS
Get to an expo or an outdoor market to discover new products, meet makers and try some tasty treats.
• Seniors and Travel Expo, 28 February and 1 March, 10am–3pm, North Harbour Stadium. Over 50 exhibitors showcasing domestic and international travel, health and wellness, retirement living, hobbies, and more. seniorsandtravelexpo.com/ auckland
• NZ Food Expo, 14 March, 10am-5pm and 15 March, 10am-4pm, Eventfinda Stadium, Wairau Valley. Meet the makers, discover new products, enjoy exclusive deals, tastings and demos. foodexpos.co.nz/location/auckland/
• Auckland Baby Expo, 28-29 March, 9am–4pm, Eventfinda Stadium, Wairau Valley. Looking forward to a new baby or have small children to think about? Auckland Baby Expo is here for you with brand new exhibitors as well as favourite brands, giveaways, expo specials, seminars and workshops. Get your free tickets here: babyexpos.co.nz/location/auckland/
Mairangi Bay Food and Wine Festival
Auckland Baby Expo
Browns Bay Beach Summer Spectacular
Colour Dash credit Scottie T Photography
• Smales Farm Sunday markets, 8 February, 8 March and 12 April, 9am2pm. Plant market, 15 February, 9am–2pm. There’s always something new and interesting to see at Smales Farm Sunday Market, and great coffee and goodies to eat. smalesfarm.co.nz/markets/
SPORTS
Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, there are great sports events taking place all over the Shore. Here are a few of our favourites;
• Devonport JETS Run, Wednesday nights February-March, 6pm-7pm. Enrolment at Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, 5.45pm. Run the Devonport waterfront with a choice of 3km, 5km and occasionally 10km routes. Keep it low-key and fun for family, or make it a serious challenge to improve your time. Sign up here: eventfinda. co.nz/2025/devonport-jets-run/auckland/ Devonport
• BNZ Breakers. Watch the BNZ Breakers on their home court at Eventfinda Stadium, Wairau Valley, as they head to the last games of the season.
• BNZ Breakers v South East Melbourne Phoenix, 5 February, 7.30pm, Eventfinda Stadium
• BNZ Breakers v Cairns Taipans, 19 February, 7.30pm, Eventfinda Stadium Get your tickets at eventfindastadium. co.nz/events
• Moana Pasifika v Crusaders, 21 March, 7.05pm, Moana Pasifika starts the season up against Super Rugby Pacific champs Crusaders. Let’s give them some rousing support against the Cantabrians! Tickets on sale soon. Find out more at aucklandstadiums.co.nz/event/moana-
pasifika-vs-crusaders-2026-season
• Ducky Derby, 21 March, 10am-1pm, Western Reserve, Orewa (by the Orewa skate park). The cutest sport on our list, Ducky Derby is a community fundraiser for Orewa Beach Kindergarten. A family fun day with games and entertainment, and the duck race, with 750 ducks down the estuary at 12pm. Find out more: eventfinda.co.nz/2026/ducky-derby/ auckland/orewa
• The Colour Dash, 22 March, warm-up starts at 10.40am, Ngataringa Sports Fields, Devonport. Complete laps of the field and get doused in colour as you go! Dashers begin in white and finish as bright works of art. A new foam zone and bubble tunnel have been added this year. The event is accessible to all and includes a Colour Carnival complete with music and food trucks. Colour Dash is a charitable fundraiser for the Liz Soper Foundation of Care. Find out more and get your tickets at colourdash.co.nz/
• Harcourts Cooper & Co Shore to Shore, 29 March, 9am. A 5.9km fun run or walk from Takapuna to Milford supporting local schools. Shore to Shore starts at Takapuna Grammar, heads past Takapuna beach to Milford reserve, where competitions and food stalls await you. Register to take part, at shoretoshore.co.nz/register/
• Twilight Petanque, Mondays till 30 April, 6-7pm. Stanley Bay Petanque Club. Have you ever tried pétanque? Why not enjoy the evening sun over late summer and participate in a sport that focuses on balance and precision? Find out more: stanleybaypetanque.co.nz/events
ART AND CRAFT
We’re finally getting the message to get off our screens and use our hands and minds for something more creative. Art and craft workshops have become very popular, so here are a few possibilities for you to consider. Make sure to check out the arts centres' websites for other options.
• Kintsugi Workshop, 22 February, 9.30-11.10am, Lake House Arts, Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna. This traditional Japanese art uses a precious metal to bring together pieces of a broken pottery item and create something beautiful. Book at eventbrite. co.nz/o/frost-studio-48114408643
• Flower Candles workshop, 28 February, 2pm–4pm, Winsome Coffee House, 360 Lake Road, Takapuna. Learn the art of crafting beautiful candles using dried flowers. Book at eventfinda.co.nz/2026/flowercandles-workshop/auckland/Takapuna
• Handbuilding Ceramics with Melissa Mead, six-week course starting 16 February, 9.30-12pm, Mairangi Arts Centre. All abilities welcome to learn hand building and glazing with clay. Book at mairangi-arts-centre.live.baluu. co.uk/l/adult-ceramic-other
Auckland Food Expo
Ducky Derby
Ceramic Art at MAC
Stanley Bay Petanque
Devonport JETS
Harcourts Cooper & Co Shore to Shore
MOVIES AND MUSICALS
Fun, free events for you and the family to see a favourite movie outdoors.
• Movies in Parks: A Minecraft Movie, 27 February, 5.30pm-9.15pm, Te Kaitaka/ Greenslade Reserve, Northcote
• Movies in Parks: Moana 2, 14 March, 4.30pm-8.15pm, Luckens Reserve, West Harbour
• Find out more at ourauckland. aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/movies-in-parks/ movies/
For something a little more grown-up, there are also great musicals coming to the Shore.
• The Last Five Years, 20-27 February, 7.30pm, and 3pm Sunday 22 February, The PumpHouse Theatre. A musical love story with a twist – one person’s story moves forward in time while the other’s moves backwards. Book at pumphouse. co.nz/whats-on/show/the-last-five-years/
• Menopause the Musical, 24–25 March, 7.30pm, Bruce Mason Centre. The global hit returns after 10 years; a hilarious journey celebrating “The Change”, set to parodies of classic hits. Book at aucklandlive.co.nz/show/menopause-themusical
• The King of Pop Show, 22 April, 7.30pm, Bruce Mason Centre. It’s the first time New Zealand has had the opportunity to see the world's number one Michael Jackson tribute. Feel the magic as TJ Cappola nails the iconic moonwalk and vocals. Book at aucklandlive.co.nz/show/ the-king-of-pop-show
NATURE
Let’s take the opportunity to get out and about in nature, learn about our environment, and maybe leave things better than we found them!
• Coastal Clean Up Walk, Narrow Neck to Takapuna, 7 March, 8am-10am, Join Restoring Takarunga Hauraki and Pupuke Birdsong Project for a coastal clean-up walk at low tide, and learn about the local environment along the way. Meet by the playground at Narrow Neck Beach. Register at events. humanitix.com/coastal-clean-up-walk
• Guided walk through Te Ara Awataha, 7 March, 10am–11am, Northcote. A relaxed educational walk along Te Ara Awataha, with the ecologist involved in the regeneration of this 1.5km corridor. Beginning at Papa Ki Awataha, the source of the Awataha stream, and following the waterway through to Cadness Reserve. Book at kaipatiki.org. nz/whats-on/guided-walk-through-te-araawataha
• Discover Pupukemoana, 21 March, 9.30am–3pm, Killarney Park. A family fun day from Pupuke Birdsong Project with snorkel and kayak tours, flax weaving and traditional games, as you discover the unique taonga of Pupukemoana. Find out more at pupukebirdsong.org.nz/event-calendar/ It’s worth going across the bridge for…
• Auckland Boat Show, 5–7 March, 10am–6pm and 8 March, 10am–5pm, Viaduct Event Centre and Jellicoe Harbour. It’s the 25th outing of this on-and-off-water boat show, and your chance to see some of the most luxurious boats as well as the more
moderately priced ones! Get your tickets at auckland-boatshow.com/
• Pasifika Festival, 14 March, 9am-6pm and 15 March, 12pm-6pm, Western Springs Lakeside Park. Eight villages with eight stages are set to showcase the best of the 11 Pacific Island nations with world-class traditional and contemporary performances, and over 100 food and craft stalls. Find out more at aucklandnz.com/pasifika
ANZAC DAY
Saturday 25 April is Anzac Day, one of New Zealand’s most important and heartfelt national days, and an opportunity to join your community in honouring those who have served us. Dawn services and parade times haven’t been published as Channel goes to print, but usually take place at:
• War Memorial, Manly Esplanade, Browns Bay
• War Memorial Hall, Takapuna
• Corner of Victoria Road and King Edward Parade, Devonport
Check the RSA national website or your local RSA for confirmed times closer to the date: rsa.org.nz
• Poppy making at Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, 25 April, 10am-5pm, 64 King Edward Parade. Follow the service with an outing to Torpedo Bay Navy Museum in Devonport to continue learning about the Anzacs, and learn to make a traditional red paper poppy of your own. navymuseum.co.nz
Information correct as of 23 January
- please check individual websites for confirmation closer to event dates.
Movies in Parks King of Pop
Coastal Clean Up
Corolla Cross
Plain sailing... the North Shore's sailing clubs
We’re lucky to have a range of sailing clubs that welcome people of all ages and skill levels on the Shore. This month, we talk to five clubs across our region about learning to sail. Whether you’ve got a young one who is interested in learning the basics, want to join community events, or already know a bit about sailing, the North Shore’s sailing community has something to inspire every sailor. Find out more about what’s on at your local club.
Milford Cruising Club
Jess Handley
Jess Handley is a member of the Milford Cruising Club and also the head coach, with a passion for sailing and coaching at Milford. She started sailing at the age of eight in the Optimist class after watching her parents enjoy the sport. After this, Jess went on to sail P-class and starling, then onto 420 and 29er. Jess also joined the Westlake Girls Premier sailing team, where she discovered many other types of sailing and loved it! Recently, Jess has competed in the Youth Sailing Championships in the 29er division, held in Portugal. Jess and the Milford Cruising Club talk about learning to sail at their club.
Is sailing something people of any age can learn?
Channel Mag: Why would you encourage others in the community to give sailing a try?
Jess Handley: Sailing is such an amazing sport that provides many opportunities. Whether you are a competitive person or not, there’s a type of sailing for everyone. It’s also great to be able to get out in nature and enjoy the beautiful waters we have here in New Zealand.
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz SimonWattsMP
Yes. Sailing is a sport for life, which can be learned and enjoyed at any age. There are many different types of boats for everyone! Unlike many sports, it can be taught at any age due to the wide range of boats and the wide range of age groups that participate in the sport.
What does sailing give you that other hobbies don’t?
Sailing gives you the freedom of being on the water, whether it be in a team or by yourself. You learn lifelong skills and make lifelong friends. It also allows you to face the challenges of the wind and learn how to overcome them.
dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz DanBidoisMP
What does a typical day at the club look like, and what can members expect?
Milford Cruising Club: It is such a busy club; we have something for everyone, from our family-friendly restaurant and bar, quiz nights, weekly Takapuna Harriers Run Club, to fleet sailing and junior sailing programme. From an office perspective, each day is very busy with booking enquiries and providing member services, for example, slipway and dinner bookings. Members also receive a discount on Kapiti ice-cream and barista coffee available from our kiosk on weekends. Check out our Facebook page for all our latest updates.
Do you have any events or activities coming up in 2026 that you want people to know about?
We’ve just come off the back of the highly successful PredictWind A Class Catamaran World Championships and are hosting the IQ WindFoil New Zealand Nationals with a host of overseas competitors over Waitangi weekend, Friday 6 - Sunday 8 February. This includes the best in the world. Our Term 1 Junior Sailing Programme commences Friday 13 February for both Optimist and Feva boats. Also on Friday 13 February, we have a pre-Valentine’s evening with dinner and live music by Serene Boulton. On Sunday 1 March, we are working with the Milford Residents Association on the free community barbecue in Milford Reserve.
How do people go about signing up to join your club?
We welcome new members. Please contact our friendly office to discuss membership types, from family membership (junior sailing families, people with boats) to social memberships. You don’t need to have a boat to join our very social club. If you like to have a delicious meal and affordable drinks, just get in touch, and we can get you sorted!
Email manager@milfordcruising.co.nz or phone 09 489 6837.
Jess Handley in action
Takapuna Boating Club
Leanne Cowan
Leanne Cowan is the member coordinator and has been part of Takapuna Boating Club for over four years, looking after memberships and running the learn-to-sail and paddle courses. Leanne loves welcoming new members, seeing people of all ages get out on the water, and watching their confidence and skills grow, saying it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of those moments.
Channel Mag: Why would you encourage others in the community to give sailing a try?
Leanne Cowan: Takapuna Boating Club (TBC) offers an incredibly welcoming and supportive environment to try sailing. Whether you’re brand new or returning after time away, TBC makes it easy to get involved, build confidence on the water and enjoy everything our local coastline has to offer.
What does a typical day at the club look like, and what can members expect?
A typical day at TBC is lively and relaxed: boats being rigged, sails going up, adults learning, and members catching up before or after sailing. There’s a real sense of belonging, with volunteers, coaches and members all contributing to the club’s friendly atmosphere.
Is sailing something people of any age can learn?
Yes, absolutely. Takapuna Boating Club offers sailing for adults aged 16 and up. Our adult learn-to-sail courses use RS Quest dinghies, and for those looking to progress, we offer Level 2 courses where you can learn to sail single-handed boats such as Lasers and Far East 11s. Our coaching and club sailing programmes let you develop your skills at a pace that suits you.
What does sailing give you that other hobbies don’t?
Murrays Bay Sailing Club
Lucas Hebberd
Sailing at TBC offers a unique mix of challenge, teamwork and time outdoors. Being out on the water is both invigorating and grounding,
and the shared experience of sailing builds strong connections with others in the club.
Do you have any events or activities coming up in 2026 that you want people to know about?
In 2026, TBC has a full programme of club racing, learn-to-sail and skill-building courses, alongside social events that bring members together both on and off the water. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re keen to compete, learn or simply enjoy being part of the club.
How do people go about signing up to join your club?
Joining Takapuna Boating Club is easy. Membership information and online sign-up are available through our website, or people are welcome to visit the club, meet our team and see firsthand what makes TBC such a special place.
Lucas Hebberd is the Learn to Sail manager at Murrays Bay Sailing Club, a club focusing on youth centreboard sailing. He has been at Murrays Bay for 10 years, has been coaching for seven of those years and has loved every minute of it!
Channel Mag: Why would you encourage others in the community to give sailing a try?
Lucas Hebberd: Sailing is a really awesome and unique sport. One of the best things about sailing is that it is very much a lifetime sport; you can learn to sail when you’re young and be sailing your whole life after that! There are many different pathways in sailing, and you can choose what boat you want to sail and how competitive you want to be. Kids who learn to sail also often find themselves making friends that will last a lifetime. There’s also no feeling like being out on the water and just going for a sail!
What does sailing give you that other hobbies don’t?
At Murrays Bay, we often find our young sailors developing a lot of independence from sailing. It’s a fairly unique experience for a kid to be out on the water sailing a boat by themselves and making all the decisions about how to sail their boat. It really builds a lot of resilience and self-confidence.
Do you have any events or activities coming up in 2026 that you want people to know about?
Contact members@takapunaboating.org.nz
Currently, we have two Learn to Sail Term programmes available, one on Tuesday/Saturday and one on Wednesday/Sunday. It’s the best way to learn to sail!
How do people go about signing up to join your club? Visit our website www.murraysbay.org
Takapuna Learn to Sail course
Amanda Michel
Wakatere Boating Club
Amanda Michel looks after club communications at Wakatere Boating Club, located at Narrow Neck Beach. Founded in 1926, the club began with a small group of passionate sailors and has grown into something much bigger than a sailing club; it’s a family. From champions to weekend warriors, first-timers to seasoned families, its members sail an exciting mix of centreboard dinghies and foiling classes..
the club deck to unwind and swap stories about the close calls of the day. Outside of Sundays, coaching runs throughout the week, and most afternoons you’ll find plenty happening on and off the water.
Is sailing something people of any age can learn?
Yes! We run Learn to Sail courses for juniors, youth and adults. It’s never too late to jump in. Adult sessions run on Saturdays during term time, offering a relaxed, supportive start for anyone new to sailing. Junior courses begin from age seven, and as a true family club, we love seeing parents and kids out on the water together, whether sailing, supporting different classes, or teaming up as skipper and crew. It’s a fantastic family sport with endless pathways.
What does sailing give you that other hobbies don’t?
It's a special sport full of skills for life, like self-confidence, spatial awareness, sense of direction, weather knowledge, and responsibility.
Do you have any events or activities coming up in 2026 that you want people to know about?
Channel Mag: Why would you encourage others in the community to give sailing a try?
Amanda Michel: Sailing is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, challenging in all the right ways, full of fun, freedom, and a welcome break from our hectic digital lives. You meet great people and build real friendships from all backgrounds.
We are on a regatta roll at Wakatere! The 2026 Sunburst Nationals and Starling Super Series wrapped up mid-January, and next up is the 2026 NZ OK Dinghy Nationals from Friday 6 - Sunday 8 February, followed by our WBC Centenary Regatta from Friday 27 February to Sunday 1 March. We have a century of sailing to celebrate at Wakatere with racing, stories and connections. Details available shortly on our website: www.wakatere.org.nz
What does a typical day at the club look like, and what can members expect?
How do people go about signing up to join your club?
Easy! It's all online. Create an account, choose your membership, and you're in. Or if you're interested in our entry-level Learn to Sail courses, register your interest, and we'll be in touch with the next available booking.
Club days are Sundays during the season, bringing together all classes, all ages for relaxed, friendly afternoon club racing. While there might be a hint of rivalry on the start line, the atmosphere is welcoming for every level of sailor. After racing, members gather on
Torbay Sailing Club
Stephen Knights
Stephen Knights is the commodore of Torbay Sailing Club. He grew up on the coast, learning to sail at a small sailing club in the UK, which started his love of the sport. Since then, he’s become a qualified yacht skipper as well, and likes nothing more than mucking about on the water. Nowadays, Stephen says he does more organising and less sailing, with computers and consulting, but when he does sail, it's the best active relaxation one can get! Stephen says sailing covers a wide community of people of all ages and abilities. “In the Torbay club, we have folk from eight to 80. We have students from schools and universities, we have firefighters, nurses, teachers, air traffic controllers, network engineers, and we have business owners and executives," explains Stephen. He’s passionate about the sport being accessible for all, saying it’s as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it, like any sport or hobby. Stephen talks about the club’s passion and community spirit and how the wider community can join.
Channel Mag: Why would you encourage others in the community to give sailing a try?
Stephen Knights: Getting outdoors into the open is so good for physical and mental health. For all of us, young and old, the challenge and what is so rewarding is that sailing can be done alone or in a small team, but can only be done safely with the support of a community. You are a master of your craft, but you do so with the support of others around you who advise, coach and can (literally) pull you out of the water! To have pitted yourself against the wind, mastered a challenge and then shared that achievement with those who understand it is hugely rewarding, whether you're eight or 80.
What does a typical day at the club look like, and what can members expect?
Safety comes first. Be that a Tuesday night coaching session or on 'game day' Sundays. The day starts with a full briefing on conditions, UV, water and wind state, and the objectives of the day. The coaches and safety team have a separate briefing. Then it's getting rigged and ready. Lots of banter and support to ensure everyone gets into the water safely. On the water, "tide and time wait for no one". It's game face on and concentrating. On a coaching night, there will be things to try and to master. On race days, there is a course to navigate around, with usually three races. The course could be in the bay for the junior fleets with a Crunchie bar for the winners; for the experienced sailors, a race course is set in the deeper water away from the cliffs and swells. After sailing, the barbecues are always on, and the bar is open. Tall tales are told of exploits and stories of epic achievements shared. We have
a wonderful deck and clubhouse that has unspoilt views of the harbour and Rangitoto beyond.
Is sailing something people of any age can learn?
Absolutely! We run Learn to Sail courses across three age bands: kids 8 – 13/14, youth 13/14–18 and adult 18 and up. We have only one strict requirement: being able to confidently swim 50m in open water. What that means in practice is usually being over eight years old and maybe under 80.
What does sailing give you that other hobbies don’t?
We share a huge amount with other sports such as cycling, hiking, kayaking and SUPing. Being outdoors in nature is challenging yourself. A sport you do alone, or in a small team of two to three, but it's way more fun when done with others and with the safety team around you. What's unique? The wind and tide are fickle creatures, and mastering them is a lifelong aim. What seems easy one week isn't the next. There's always something to challenge you.
Do you have any events or activities coming up in 2026 that you want people to know about?
Learn to sail programmes run throughout the year. Our biggest event coming up is the annual Sir Peter Blake Torbay Regatta. This is one of the world's largest youth sailing regattas, and we believe the largest in the southern hemisphere. It runs on the first weekend in December every year. This year will be the 24th time it's run. We expect over 250 eight-18-year-olds to take part in competing in 15 different types of boats across four race courses. Every single New Zealand sailing Olympian and all of the America's Cup and SailGP teams have sailed at "The Blake". If you want to see or be part of New Zealand's sailing future, then this is the event to be at.
How do people go about signing up to join your club?
Our website is by far the best place to go to: www.torbaysailing.club. We'd also love to see you! Come on down on a Sunday between 9am and 11am during school term time and chat to anyone you find who's setting up a boat or is around the clubhouse at 948 Beach Road, Waiake. They'd love to chat with you or point you to someone who can help you.
Visit www.torbaysailing.club for more information.
By Claire Bellingham, Personal Trainer and Nutritionist
How important sleep can be
Being sleep deprived has become a status symbol for being busy and important. But it can seriously affect your health, quality of life and ability to manage your weight. Research has shown that people who consistently get more than six hours of sleep per night tend to carry less body fat than people who get less than six hours of sleep per night. Restricting sleep for even five days can lead to short term weight gain.
Two key hormones affected by sleep deprivation are ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin is the 'start eating' hormone, which tells you it's time to eat. When you are sleep deprived you have more ghrelin, and this can increase appetite by up to 25%. Leptin is the 'stop eating' hormone, which causes you to feel full. When you are sleep deprived you have less of it. More ghrelin plus less leptin tends to equal more eating.
Another hormone stimulated by sleep deprivation is cortisol. Cortisol is a stress-response hormone - in an unfortunate spiral psychological stress can interrupt your sleep at night, and then sleep deprivation creates physiological stress through the day as you struggle to function. Cortisol destroys lean muscle mass (which decreases metabolic rate), destabilises blood sugar levels and predisposes us to carry weight around the middle. Abdominal fat is not only aesthetically undesirable, it also poses greater health risks than fat stored in other parts of the body.
Sleep deprived people tend to eat for fast energy rather than nutritious fuel. Overeating tends to snowball as the day goes on; the later it gets the harder it is to control. Stimulants such as caffeine and sugar further disrupt your sleep, leaving you tired and wired. The longer the day the more opportunities there are to eat.
Sleep deprivation and overeating operate in partnership. So too do exercise and sound sleep. And the good news is that best type of exercise to stimulate good sleep is moderate intensity. You don't need to find a lot of energy, just a little. The best choice is whatever type of exercise you most enjoy.
It can be hard to get organised to exercise when you're overtired and overworked; sometimes just getting out of bed feels physical exertion enough. But skipping exercise is inefficient. As well as improving your sleep, a workout can help process stress hormones, regulate blood sugar and maintain muscle mass. It gets blood to the brain to restore your cognitive capacity. It also gives you a little break from your snacking. As the fog lifts, so too does your ability to make healthy choices.
Our bodies are designed to move through the day and rest through the night. Sleep brings physical, mental and emotional rejuvenation and repair. You need it to arrest the downwards spiral of lethargy and get life back under control. Make it a priority to move your body daily and organise seven-plus hours of sleep every night.
Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna
0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz clairebellingham.co.nz claire@clairebellingham.co.nz
FOCUS ON BARRYS POINT ROAD
New on Barrys Point Road: Ocean Hunter Auckland
Ocean Hunter Auckland has recently opened its doors on Barrys Point Road, bringing a dedicated hub for snorkelling, freediving and spearfishing to the local community. Long known among ocean enthusiasts across New Zealand, Ocean Hunter is a specialist retailer built by people who live and breathe the ocean.
Whether you’re a beginner snorkeller or a seasoned spearo, the friendly and knowledgeable team at Ocean Hunter Auckland is ready to help. As active divers and spearfishers themselves, the staff understand the importance of the right equipment, solid advice and shared experience. Customers are encouraged to ask questions, try on gear, and tap into the team’s first-hand knowledge of local conditions and ocean safety. The store stocks a wide range of highquality equipment for snorkelling, freediving and spearfishing for adults and kids, along with gear for other water activities. Visitors can browse wetsuits, masks, fins and spearguns, find practical footwear for wet environments, or simply stop in for a chat about getting the most out of their time in the water. The shop also serves as a convenient pickup point for Ocean Hunter online orders.
share advice to help customers build skills responsibly.
The business was founded on a deep love for the ocean. From spearfishing and freediving in deep water to snorkelling, underwater photography and kai gathering in the shallows, Ocean Hunter celebrates the connection people have with the moana. The team believes that sourcing food from the ocean can be one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences, and they are passionate about helping others enjoy it safely and respectfully.
Ocean Hunter Auckland first opened 19 years ago in the CBD, before relocating to Albany in 2019 and then to Takapuna in 2025. The store is now owned by Kat Fairweather, who took over in April 2025 after working with Ocean Hunter in marketing and retail.
An avid freediver, spearo and huntress, Kat brings strong community involvement and a shared passion for ocean sports to the role.
Ocean Hunter Auckland offers more than retail. The store provides wetsuit repairs, dive watch servicing, and speargun and equipment maintenance, helping customers keep their gear in top condition. Regular events and information evenings are hosted for those wanting to expand their skills, learn more about ocean activities, and connect with like-minded people in the community. Education is a cornerstone of the business. Ocean Hunter Auckland offers breath-hold courses and study resources designed to prepare people properly for freediving and spearfishing. Safety, knowledge and confidence are key focuses, and the team is always happy to
At Ocean Hunter Auckland, the goal is simple: to provide quality equipment, thorough education and excellent customer service, so locals can enjoy unforgettable experiences in the ocean doing what they love.
Store hours: Mon - Fri: 9am-5.30pm; Sat/Sun: 9am-5pm
Kat Fairweather
1 Gain 427 km of charge in 15 mintues is data obtained from internal tests of G6 RWD Long Range.
2 All technical data are subject to type approval. Data has been obtained during internal testing. The actual range may differ from the calculated WLTP range, depending on the driver’s driving style, speed, number of passengers, vehicle load, outside temperature, use of air conditioning, terrain, vehicle condition, etc.
Vision that keeps up with life
For more than three decades, Nicholls & Associates Optometrists has been proudly caring for the eyes of the Browns Bay community. As a family-owned optometry practice, we believe everyone deserves healthy eyes and clear vision at all stages of life. We combine personalised, compassionate care with advanced technology and stylish eyewear solutions tailored to your individual visual needs.
Nicholls Optometrists spans three generations, beginning with Viv, Bruce’s father, and continuing today with Bruce and, more recently, his daughter Georgia. Over the years, the practice has grown to include a team of five optometrists, while always maintaining a focus on personalised, attentive care. Bruce’s wife, Barbara, also plays a key role, ensuring the eyewear collection is stylish, current, and thoughtfully selected to suit a wide variety of tastes.
We believe that visiting your optometrist is more than just an appointment – it should be an informative personalised experience. Time is taken understand your individual visual needs and use modern diagnostic equipment to check for and manage conditions such as dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
If new glasses are needed, our experienced lens consultants are here to help you choose frames that suit your face shape and personal style, and to guide you through lens options that best fit your everyday needs.
Our focus on individual care continues with children’s eye health, where early assessment and myopia management can help support healthy vision as children grow.
What is Myopia and why does it matter?
Myopia (commonly known as short-sightedness) occurs when the eye is too long or too powerful, and leads to blurred distance vision. Higher levels of myopia exponentially increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life.
Myopia is becoming increasingly common worldwide, with the World Health Organisation estimating that 50% of the world's population will be myopic by 2050. With myopia becoming more prevalent, early intervention is increasingly important.
Myopia control involves reducing the progression of myopia in children, helping to support healthier vision as they grow, learn, and explore the world around them.
Our optometrists are experienced in recommending a range of clinically proven myopia control options, tailored to each child’s needs, including:
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
• Soft contact lenses designed for myopia control
• Myopia control spectacle lenses
• Low-dose atropine eye drops Starting myopia control early gives children the best opportunity to maintain healthier vision long into adulthood.
What is orthokeratology (Ortho-K), and why do families love it?
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, uses custom-designed contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the front of the eye. In the morning, the lenses are removed, providing clear vision throughout the day -without glasses or daytime contact lenses.
Ortho-K offers major benefits:
• Freedom from glasses or contacts during the day, ideal for active children, sport, and swimming
• A safe, reversible option, with the eye returning to its natural shape if lens wear stops
• Proven myopia control, helping slow the progression of short-sightedness
Our team guides families through every step, from precise measurements and personalised fitting to ongoing care and follow-up, ensuring comfort, safety, and the best possible outcomes for your child.
Book your eye care appointment at www.nichollsoptical.co.nz, visit us at 72 Clyde Road, Browns Bay, or call 09 479 2316
Optometrists Georgia and Bruce Nicholls with Barbara Nicholls, Optical Stylist.
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
Hearing loss in women: What makes it unique
Women generally hear more sensitively than men, but their hearing changes in a different pattern with age. Midlife brings bodily changes that can affect hearing, so recognising early signs and taking steps to protect it is important.
Recent research shows that women consistently have more sensitive hearing than men, about two decibels on average, regardless of age or location. This biological advantage reflects differences in hormone exposure and cochlear structure, making women's hearing naturally sharper. Compared with men, women may experience hearing loss later but can also be more sensitive to everyday noise, which can affect sleep, concentration and overall wellbeing.
Unlike men, whose hearing often declines from their 30s, women usually maintain good hearing until around the age of 50. Epidemiological studies suggest that hormonal shifts around perimenopause and menopause can trigger a relatively rapid decline, often beginning in the left ear. This unique timing means women's hearing loss patterns differ from men's and highlight the complex role of estrogen in protecting hearing.
Hearing loss in women can develop gradually, making it easy to miss the first signs. You might notice difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy environments, or needing to turn up the volume on the TV, phone or music. Some women experience ringing, buzzing or hissing sounds in their ears, known as tinnitus. Others find it harder to hear high-pitched sounds, like alarms, doorbells or birdsong. Paying attention to these subtle changes is especially important for women, whose naturally sharper hearing can make everyday noises more noticeable but also mask a gradual decline.
If you notice changes in your hearing, contact us to assess your hearing, identify any loss and recommend next steps. For some women, hearing aids or other assistive devices can make a significant difference, improving clarity in conversations and helping manage symptoms such as tinnitus. In New Zealand, ACC support may also be available if hearing loss is linked to work or injury. Contact us for more info or to book in.
By Kevin O’Leary, General Manager, Business North Harbour
A brighter year ahead
After hopefully enjoying a well-deserved Christmas and New Year break spending quality time with family and loved ones, most, if not all of us that are able to, have now returned to work, ready to take on whatever challenges 2026 may decide to throw at us.
I sincerely hope that the new year proves to be a successful and positive one that businesses and households can enjoy without having their resilience and financial management capability tested to the same degree as they have been in recent years. Indeed, while the economic climate appears set to remain challenging for a little while, I hope that everyone can achieve some positive outcomes during the year, whatever business and personal goals may have been set.
Unfortunately, the predicted economic growth that saw the tag line ‘Survive til 25’ come to the fore in 2024, didn’t eventuate last year, with many businesses and households continually struggling to make ends meet. There is a more positive economic vibe and narrative around at the moment, with a number of economists predicting a brighter year ahead, as an increasing number of people are able to enjoy the benefits of the decrease in mortgage interest rates as their fixed-rate periods at higher interest rates come to an end. The result hoped for from this change is that more people will see an increase in their disposable income, encouraging them to stimulate the economy by being able to spend money on items other than the essentials such as food and power.
… a more positive economic vibe and narrative around at the moment, with a number of economists predicting a brighter year ahead …
Despite this more positive narrative, sustainable economic recovery isn’t going to be plain sailing as we are still facing significant challenges with the costs of food, power, petrol, council and water rates and insurance all generally continuing to rise. In addition to these ongoing costs, higher than usual levels of unemployment and the threat of job insecurity hanging over people mean that many businesses and households still need to remain guarded about their expenditure.
Given that we are now in a General Election year, I’m sure that as the year progresses all the political parties will start trying to convince us that voting for them will bring about a positive upturn in the economy and in our lifestyle in general. Whilst the time to decide on who gets your vote is still quite a way off, I hope that in the meantime we are able to enjoy a more positive, less financially stressful year ahead, as we continue to slowly turn the corner towards economically better times.
In closing, I would again ask you to please keep supporting our local businesses whenever you can.
businessnh.org.nz
09 968 2222
027 479 9563
kevin@businessnh.org.nz
By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote
Welcome to election year!
There’s a famous line from Bill Clinton’s 1992 campaign that still rings true: “It’s the economy, stupid”. The message was simple then and it’s just as relevant now. For families and businesses, nothing matters more than jobs, wages and the cost of living, especially after the tough few years we’ve all been through.
The good news is that 2026 is shaping up to be a much better year for our economy.
The economy is expected to grow by just over 2%, wages are set to rise a little faster than that, prices are easing back toward normal levels, and more people are likely to find work.
We know that when the government focuses on the basics and gets out of the way, communities are stronger, wages rise and opportunities grow.
These are all encouraging signals, but we know that statistics alone don’t make life easier. What really matters is whether people feel that progress in their own homes, pay packets, and businesses.
That’s why our focus this year is simple: making sure the recovery is real, practical, and genuinely felt in everyday life. We want all North Shore families and businesses to see and feel the difference of a National-led government.
When Labour says they “have your back” on the economy, it’s worth remembering what they left behind:
• Public debt more than doubled to $155 billion
• Inflation hit a more than 30-year high of 7.3%
• One of the largest budget deficits, as a share of the economy, in the developed world, and
• An over-reliance on government as the source of truth and prosperity.
National has a different view. We know it’s people and businesses who create economic growth, not politicians. We know that when the government focuses on the basics and gets out of the way, communities are stronger, wages rise and opportunities grow.
That’s what we’re about; fixing the basics and building our future together!
On a personal note, I’m proud to share that I’ve been confirmed as National’s candidate for the great electorate of Northcote. I’ve loved serving our community and I’m looking forward to the campaign ahead of election day on 7 November to secure our community's support for another term.
I look forward to a positive year ahead fighting for our community and country!
See you out in our community sometime soon!
Dan Bidois – MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz
Phone: 09 481 1089
facebook: @danbidoismp instagram: @danbidoismp
All in it together
The Harbour Hospice shops are bustling hives of activity. They generate around half of Harbour Hospice's annual fundraising needs and connect the community with the care that hospice provides for local families. At the heart of them are their volunteers, who play an integral role in their success.
"Without our volunteers, we simply couldn't run the shops," says Harbour Hospice Retail Services Manager Maria Baird. "There are so many people involved in the day of a hospice shop, and what we do would not be possible without each and every one of them."
Two of those kind-hearted individuals are Jenn Aedy and Jane Hodges, who volunteer at Harbour Hospice's Ellice Road, Glenfield, shop, on Thursdays and Fridays. More than three decades separate them in age, yet they never run out of conversation, and that's what they love about volunteering for Hospice, they say. "There are all generations here, from high school students to people in their eighties, and we all get on and enjoy ourselves," says Jane, a retired Westlake Girls High School teacher.
Jane began volunteering at Ellice Rd three years ago, after witnessing the beautiful wraparound care a family member received. "They weren't in hospice care, but after that experience, I began to learn about hospice and the wonderful ways it can support adults and their families. I wanted people to know about it, so I promised myself I'd volunteer for hospice when I retired. I want to help make hospice care possible for others."
Jenn, originally from Canada, joined the Ellice Rd team in June 2025 so she'd have something meaningful to do in between paid roles. She has since found a part-time job but still volunteers two days a week because she enjoys it so much. "I looked around a few different charity shops before I started at Ellice Rd. What I like about Ellice is that it's big and busy and there's lots going on. I love the banter with the volunteers and customers. When Jane and I are working side by side, we compliment people on what they're buying and say things like, 'Oh, that's a beautiful dress'. They get excited, and we get excited; it becomes a whole moment."
"Actually, there's never a dull moment," Jane laughs. "And it feels good to know you're supporting a worthy cause."
The Ellice Rd Harbour Hospice shop needs more volunteers, and so do its sister shops on the North Shore - particularly Birkenhead, Takapuna and Link Drive, Wairau Valley. To find out more or put your name forward, email volunteer@harbourhospice.org.nz. Shifts are three-four hours, and you can volunteer weekly or fortnightly.
Jenn Eady and Jane Hodges.
Take control of your hearing journey
At Ear Health, we believe in the warmth of authenticity, the irresistible allure of a welltold tale and treating you like an individual –because you have a story worth hearing, and every hearing journey is unique. So, please sit back, sip your tea, and let us transport you into a world where quality meets uniqueness and trust takes centre stage.
Hearing aids are more medical than fashionable. But that doesn't mean they can't look stylish while you strut your stuff. Only a full diagnostic hearing test can determine if you need them. It's like a warrant of fitness for your ears. We won't be twisting your arm or convincing you to get something you don't need. It's up to you, your choice, your call.
Whatever your decision, our team will support you every step of the way. Our experienced audiologists and ear nurses will assess your needs with utmost care and attention. We have some information that might help tip the scales if you're at the crossroads.
Your ears connect to your brain, which is housed in your noggin. Now, your brain does all sorts of things, like recalling the last All Blacks winning streak or those wild rock 'n' roll dance moves you’ve still got if the occasion calls for it. But if your hearing goes on the blink, your brain has to compensate, and that might cause a 'glitch in the matrix'. The sooner you get your hearing sorted, the more likely you will maintain a healthy connection between your ears, brain and body. Consider the banter you might be missing out on at your local. Or your mates at the rugby club who've had to shout once too often.
Here's the sticky wicket: getting a hearing aid differs from picking up the latest high-tech gadget from your local retailer. It's a lifechanger, a healthcare solution – a partnership between you and your audiologist. Like anything new, it'll take some getting used to. Some adjustment time is required. However, as with most changes for the better, you'll soon be rolling with the punches.
So, if you're wondering what to do next, don't beat around the bush; get down to your local Ear Health clinic and experience that high-five feeling. We'll have your hearing on the right track faster than you can say "jazzed-up jalapenos!"
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.
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Our beams are provided on request for decking and pavers to avoid brackets.
ROLL OUT ROLL UNDER ABOVE GROUND UNITS
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Above-ground cover roll easy 2 combine strength and discretion to secure existing or new build pools. Available in electric, solar or manual versions.
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COVERSTAR AUTOMATIC POOL COVER
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By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
A confident start to 2026
As we move into the first month of 2026, there is a noticeable shift in confidence across Auckland's residential market, particularly in tightly held coastal suburbs such as Milford and Takapuna.
After a period of adjustment, buyer sentiment has become more settled. Interest rates have stabilised, uncertainty has eased, and many purchasers who paused decisions in recent years are now re-entering the market with clarity and intent. Early enquiry levels suggest that buyers are well prepared, realistic, and ready to act when the right opportunity presents itself.
Locally, Milford and Takapuna continue to benefit from enduring fundamentals. Proximity to the coastline, strong school zones, walkable village centres, and limited supply all contribute to their long-term appeal. These factors provide resilience, even during broader market fluctuations, and help underpin buyer demand for quality homes in these neighbourhoods.
For homeowners considering a move in 2026, the early months of the year can be particularly effective. Buyers tend to be refreshed after the holiday break, family plans are clearer, and competition is often less intense than later in the year. Well-presented properties that are priced appropriately are attracting strong attention, with buyers prioritising lifestyle, location and ease of living.
A confident start to 2026 does not mean rushing decisions; it means being informed, prepared and strategic.
A confident start to 2026 does not mean rushing decisions; it means being informed, prepared and strategic. With thoughtful presentation, clear pricing guidance, and a tailored marketing approach, vendors in Milford and Takapuna are well-positioned to take advantage of improving conditions and make the most of the opportunities the year ahead offers.
Yan Davies is a reliable and trusted adviser, and a longtime North Shore local with a Master’s degree in business administration. Known for her strong high-end client network across both Asian and local communities, Yan is highly professional in her approach and treats every listing as a top priority, striving to deliver a smooth sales process and achieve the best possible result for her clients.
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
First Thursdays: Devonport’s best-kept secret (for now)
If you've been reading Channel Magazine for a while, you might remember me mentioning First Thursdays before. And yes, I'm back again. Not because I'm repeating myself, but because this little event is quietly growing legs and deserves another moment in the limelight.
First Thursdays Devonport has become one of those things people discover almost by accident. You wander into the village on a Thursday evening, notice a bit more life than usual, follow the noise or the lights, and suddenly you're part of something. Next thing you know, you're telling friends, "Have you been to this thing called First Thursdays?"
Held on the first Thursday of every month, First Thursdays brings together local artists, performers, creatives, and businesses for an easy, open evening of exhibitions, live music, workshops, food, and general meandering. Supported by founding partners Depot, the Devonport Business Association, The Vic Theatre, and Creative Programmer Kirst Newton, it's less about a formal programme and more about opening doors and seeing what's happening around the village.
The next one kicks off on Thursday, 5 March 2026, and March is shaping up to be a goodie. There'll be creative house styling workshops with local stylist Kate Alexander, offering practical ideas you can actually take home with you. Artist Anna Tang will be running hands-on paint carving workshops, designed for anyone keen to try something creative, no experience required. Depot Ceramics will also host a Sip n' Paint session, alongside informal knitting and leather workshops popping up around the village.
Add to that Chess by the Sea, stand-up comedy, exhibitions, live music, and plenty of excuses to stay out longer than planned. One of the best things about First Thursdays is that you don't need to commit to a full night. Pop in for one thing, see where the evening takes you, or just enjoy the buzz.
From a Devonport point of view, events like this matter. They showcase the creativity that already exists here and remind people that Devonport isn't just a ferry stop. It's a place to explore, connect, and hang out. If you haven't made it along yet, March is a great place to start. And if you have, you already know why it's worth coming back.
Keep an eye on @firstthursdaysdevo socials or visit firstthursdays.org.nz for details.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and Director at Lake Road Electrical
Kick off 2026 with a safer, smarter home
Another year, and you're probably looking around your place, thinking, "This is the year we finally get those little things sorted." Speaking as a tradie, the best changes are the ones that make your home safer, easier to live in, and totally ready for whatever 2026 throws at it.
Where I always start is the switchboard. So many older Kiwi homes are running on boards that just can't handle today's demands - think heat pumps, induction cooktops, home offices, EV chargers and spa pools. If you're having lights flicker, or the power trips too often, or if you still have those old ceramic fuses, get a pro to check it out. A modern board with the right safety gear is one of those behind-the-scenes things that you forget about, but it's a seriously important upgrade.
Next up, light. Switching out old, tired fittings for LEDs and maybe adding dimmers or sensor lights is a super simple way to make the place feel better and function smarter. Good outdoor lighting is another must-do - safer walkways, better security, and it just makes your home look sharp at night.
If you're planning a reno this year, seriously, bring your sparky in early. It's a million times easier to get the right power points, data cabling, and feature lighting sorted while the walls are open than trying to retrofit it all later. A bit of planning now saves you a heap of cash and hassle down the road.
Ready to get your home safe and future-proofed for 2026? Give Lake Road Electrical a call for a straight-up, honest check and some practical advice on your next best move.
Lewis Rudall
- your friendly local electrician Lake Road Electrical 029 128 7494 lakeroadelectrical.co.nz
Top tips from Amanda Graham, Newhaven Gardens. North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.
Mulch and weed mat alternatives
Traditional black weed mat is not good for your garden. It 'sours' the soil by preventing proper airflow and water absorption, compacts clay and disrupt the soil food web.
Then, after a year or so, you will find weeds growing through the mat. With their roots firmly lodged in the weed mat itself, they become harder to remove and soon you find that what you have is now a mat made of weeds!
The photo below shows this effect on soil. Over the years mulch and soil have built up on top of the weed mat creating a lovely healthy hummus, rich with worms, roots and life. However this layer is cut off from the rest of the soil by a thick layer of plastic weed mat. Below the weed mat where water and airflow is restricted, we get compact, grey clay, which is much harder for plant roots to grow through, and very slow draining.
I recommend using a nice thick layer of bark, straw or mulch to suppress weeds and 'feed' the soil. This mulch will certainly reduce the amount of weeds that grow, whilst allowing air and water to cycle through; it will also encourage worms, beneficial insects, and microbes which work together in giving you much healthier soil and plants.
What if you need a little more help with weed suppression though? There are now quite a few alternatives you can lay on your soil before adding mulch, to help keep weeds at bay.
Traditionally we have recommended using a layer of cardboard or six-eight sheets depth of newspaper, which will form a breathable barrier long enough to kill off weeds, but will break down over a few months adding carbon to the soil. Make sure you cover the bed completely and wet the soil and the cardboard or paper before adding the mulch on top.
Several of my clients swear by the wool linings they get in their food boxes, and indeed in organic gardening old wool carpets are routinely used as weed mat, and even tasked with killing off tough weeds such as kikuyu.
Nowadays you can purchase eco-friendly weed mats such as wool mat or even coconut fibre mats from DIY stores and garden centres. These products will help keep the weeds away without harming your soil the way older 'traditional' weed mat does.
Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz
Westlake Girls in 2025
A snapshot of a year
2025 was shaped by learning, participation, and a strong sense of momentum across school life.
In classrooms, students engaged with their subjects, challenged themselves, and built skills and confidence over the course of the year. Beyond the classroom, they were involved in a wide
range of cultural, sporting, creative, and service activities, bringing energy and commitment to the life of the school and to the wider community.
The year included achievements and milestones, as well as the everyday moments that define school life: collaboration, perseverance, friendship,
and pride in effort.
This photo spread captures a selection of those moments – a snapshot of a year that reflects the character and momentum of Westlake Girls, and the strong foundations carrying us into 2026.
Across the ditch and making waves
Carmel College has made a strong start to summer sport 2026
The 2026 Summer sports season has already started strongly in both volleyball and water polo, with three teams travelling to Australia as part of their pre-season campaign throughout December and January.
VOLLEYBALL
In early December 2025, a Year 10 and Year 11 Carmel volleyball team travelled to the sunny and hot Gold Coast to compete in the Australian Schools Cup. They joined a massive field of 529 teams from 160 schools across Australia and New Zealand. The overarching goal of the trip was clear: to continue the development of Carmel volleyball.
• The Year 11 Team: Competing in the Year 10 Honours division, the girls set a promising tone for the year by placing fourth in their division.
• The Year 10 Team: Competing in the Year 9 Honours grade, these players had an experiential focus, gaining valuable court time and exposure to high-level international competition.
WATER POLO
The momentum continued into January 2026 as our water polo team competed in the Queensland State Water Polo Championships. Playing in the Under 18 White division, our school team, ranging in age from 13 to 17 years, faced tough competition from both club and school
teams across Queensland. After a nailbiting final, the team secured the bronze medal with a thrilling 12-11 victory.
Individual excellence was also highlighted during the tournament:
• Bridget Mihaljevich: Top goal scorer of the division.
• Isobel Houliston: Second-highest goal scorer of the division.
Limited downtime across the days away was maximised with a day at Movie World, outlet shopping excursions, and relaxing by the pool at the team accommodations.
A big thank you goes to the coaches and managers who travelled away with these three teams, as well as the incredible family support crews who cheered the girls on every step of the way. We look forward to seeing this momentum carry through the rest of the 2026 season.
Rangitoto continues to celebrate International Baccalaureate excellence
Rangitoto College’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme continues to set a global benchmark for academic excellence. As a rigorous two-year curriculum designed to prepare students for the modern world, the IB Diploma is widely regarded as the "gold standard" of international education. With IB45 the maximum, students scoring IB40+ are in a select group of academics who score in the world’s highest 10%. Our Rangitoto students will join other New Zealand Top Scholars in Wellington at Parliament in late January to be awarded their Top Scholar Certificates.
The 2025 results further solidify the college's reputation, with students performing significantly above the global average, an impressive feat when measured against IB-exclusive schools worldwide.
International Baccalaureate Top Achievers for 2025 IB44
• Guo (Cael) Sia
• Timea Andrell
International Baccalaureate IB43
• Youran (Yolanda) Zhang
• Katie Huang
• Joshua Lo
• Hanlu (Annie) Wang
• Daniel Wei
• Chuqiao (Judy) Huang
International Baccalaureate IB41
• Zhaoyuan (Alvin) Li
• Mary Haddad
• Di (Judy) Hu
• Davin Chen
• Banghan (Edward) Xiao
• Leo Wang
International Baccalaureate IB40
• Poppy Glasgow
• Diqiu (Rachel) Gu
• Enoch Mun
BILINGUAL DIPLOMA
In an increasingly connected world, Rangitoto College is proud to celebrate 19 students who earned the prestigious Bilingual Diploma. By mastering literature in two different languages, these students have demonstrated exceptional linguistic and analytical skills across seven different languages, including French, Spanish, Korean, Russian, Afrikaans, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
• Alice Knight: French
• Antonella (Anti) Vargas Velasquez: Spanish
• Jeongwon (Chloe) Bae: Korean
• Kseniia (Xena) Pustovit: Russian
• Ania Maritz: Afrikaans
• Marco Castillo-Taira: Spanish
• Linh Nhat (Joy) Luu: Vietnamese
• Sofikuo (Sofi) Krivoshapkina: Russian
• Sofya Shalygina: Russian
• Yunseo (Bella) Chung: Korean
• Zimo (Molly) Liu: Chinese
• Zixu (Tony) Wang: Chinese
• Bailiang (Felix) Guo: Chinese
• Zhuoer (Jewel) Wu: Chinese
• Yun-Chen (Lynn) Ho: Chinese
• Sudi Cai: Chinese
• Jichen (Michael) Chen: Chinese
• Jiawei (Bruce) Sun: Chinese
• Daozi Wang: Chinese.
Chuqiao (Judy) Huang
Hanlu (Annie) Wang
Katie Huang
Youran (Yolanda) Zhang
Cael Sia
Joshua Lo and Daniel Wei
Timea Andrell
Rangitoto Head Students for 2026
We are thrilled to announce our new Head Students for the 2026 academic year: Joshua Wang, Ryen Anderson, Maya Al-Damluji, and Brody Donald. We look forward to the vision, integrity, and inspiration they will bring to their roles as they lead us through 2026.
Rangitoto Boys crowned Australian volleyball champions in Gold Coast thriller
Rangitoto College's Premier Boys volleyball team has achieved a monumental victory, clinching the title at the Australian School’s Cup - Indoor Volleyball Nationals on the Gold Coast.
Following a grueling week-long tournament that saw them play 11 intense games, the Rangitoto boys emerged victorious in a hard-fought final against the formidable Lake Ginninderra side from Canberra.
Despite losing the first set, the Rangitoto team demonstrated incredible character and turned the game around dramatically. They won the next three sets, triumphing with a final score of 3-1. The team showcased exceptional defence and an unwavering fighting spirit.
The Premier Girls' team also performed
well, finishing in a highly respectable fouth place overall, having remained unbeaten until the semi-final stage.
A special mention goes to Joschua Schaller, who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the entire tournament; a fantastic and well-deserved honour.
This incredible success is a perfect send-off for our graduating Year 13 players who have given so much to the Rangitoto volleyball programme. We extend our deepest gratitude and best wishes to the following students:
Your leadership, commitment, and skill have set a high standard, and you will all be greatly missed on and off the court. We wish you every success in your futures.
This outstanding performance from both teams would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of the coaching and management staff. A huge thank you is extended to coaches Johann Timmer, Sam Bell and Adam Watson, as well as managers Josh Bullen and Jamie Sowter who organised the trip to Australia.
Joschua Schaller
Joshua Wang, Ryen Anderson, Maya Al-Damluji and Brody Donald
Jungle Book roars to life at Kristin
"Set the stage, turn the page, and open up the Jungle Book" - and open up the Jungle Book we did at the end of 2025 at Kristin, featuring every student in the Junior School from Kindergarten to Year 6.
This very special production event is unique, as a cast of over 500 young performers took to the Auditorium stage. Bringing the exciting Jungle Book characters to life, our Junior School students worked hard to deliver wonderful performances, showcasing their talents onstage to two sold-out audiences.
Congratulations to all these students for their bravery in stepping onto the stage, some for the very first time! We know the jungle beat will stay with our youngest performers for many years to come.
For Year 7 and 9 – entry in 2027 and beyond
Thursday 12 March 2026, 4:30pm kristin.school.nz
Kristin students excel with exceptional IB and NCEA results
Kristin School is thrilled to congratulate our students on their exceptional academic results of 2025, which collectively represent our best results on record across both NCEA and International Baccalaureate (IB).
Our IB results, released in late December 2025, are highlighted by two perfect scores of 45 out of 45 points, achieved by Ryan Fan and Jacob Johnston. A perfect score is only achieved by fewer than 1% of IB students worldwide, which cements the fact that this is a remarkable feat for both Ryan and Jacob.
Fellow student Won Kim was right behind them with a near-perfect 44-point score. Our students' results continue to impress, with three students securing 43 points, eight students scoring 42 points, seven students with 41 points, and eleven students achieving a score of 40 points. These scores translate to 33% of our Class of 2025 IB students securing a score of 40 points or more compared to the 9.35% globally. This level of achievement qualifies them as IB Top Scholars. Our mean IB score was 37 points, much higher than the global average of 30 points, which further highlights the success of our Kristin students.
Reflecting on his perfect score, Jacob says, "I feel very thankful for these results. Two years of hard work, as well as readily available support from Kristin
and those who worked alongside me, have not only guided me academically but also created many lasting memories." Ryan also highlighted the supportive environment at Kristin as being a key factor for his IB success, "I am endlessly grateful for everyone who helped me at Kristin. Thanks to my teachers' yearwide feedback and support, the friends I studied with, and advice from previous students, IB felt like a challenging but ultimately shared two-year journey."
Overall, our IB students achieved a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma, with 100% of them gaining University Entrance (UE). Many of these students are receiving offers to attend top universities around the world. Senior School Principal, David Boardman, stated, "Our students' achievements strongly reaffirm Kristin as one of the leading IB schools across Australasia and the world. The effort and dedication that these students put in continues to astound me, and I congratulate them all."
In NCEA, our students achieved our best results on record, a remarkable accomplishment that highlights the dedication of our students, staff, and parents. For NCEA Level 2, the pass rate was 99%, with 48% achieving an endorsement with Merit and 39% achieving an endorsement with Excellence. In NCEA Level 3, the pass rate was a perfect 100%, with 55% achieving an endorsement with Merit
and 31% achieving an endorsement with Excellence. Ninety-nine per cent of our Level 3 students achieved University Entrance (UE). To put these results into perspective, the nationwide pass rate for NCEA Level 2 in 2024 was 75.2% and 71.3% for Level 3, with 52% achieving UE.
Kristin Executive Principal, Kim Green, says, "Congratulations to our students on your incredible NCEA and IB results. Through your wholehearted journey at Kristin, you have developed critical thinking skills, deep understandings, analytical abilities, and global perspectives, and you are now truly future-ready." Kristin looks forward to watching our Class of 2025 students continue to excel in the next chapters of their lives.
RESULTS HIGHLIGHTS:
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme:
• 100% pass rate
• 100% UE
• Two perfect scores of 45 out of 45 points (Ryan Fan, Jacob Johnston)
• One score of 44 points (Won Kim)
• 33% of students with scores of 40 points or higher
• Mean score of 37 points (compared to 30 points globally).
NCEA
• 99% pass rate for Level 2
• 100% pass rate for Level 3
• 99% UE
• Merit Endorsement - 48% Level 2, 55% Level 3
• Excellence Endorsement39% Level 2, 31% Level 3.
Jacob Johnston and Ryan Fan
Building confidence and connections at Year 9 camp
Our Year 9 students began their Westlake Boys journey with a three-day outdoor experience on Motutapu Island. The camp gave our new students the chance to step outside their comfort zones, build connections and try activities that encouraged teamwork and resilience.
Two camps were completed in January, and while the third was cancelled due to adverse weather, the first two groups made the most of their time on the island. Students travelled by ferry from Devonport
to Islington Bay before hiking the 5.5 kilometres to the Motutapu facility. Once there, they took part in activities such as kayaking, raft building, climbing and a range of challenge courses, all designed to develop problem-solving skills and confidence.
We hope our students have returned with new friendships, memorable experiences and a stronger sense of what it means to be part of the Westlake community.
Our new Year 9 students enjoyed making new friends and taking part in activities during their stay on Motutapu Island.
Warm welcome for our new international students
In January, we welcomed 56 new international students to Westlake Boys High School, all beginning their studies with us this term. Our new students have travelled from China, Austria, Germany, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and New Caledonia to join the Westlake community. Their first days included orientation sessions, campus tours and introductions to staff and student leaders who helped them settle into life at Westlake. For many, this is their first time living away from home and
their first experience of New Zealand school culture. We look forward to supporting them as they make friends, build confidence and take part in school life. Many international students go on to study at universities here and contribute to the wider economy. Most importantly, the friendships formed between local and international students broaden worldviews and enrich our school.
We are proud to welcome our new students and look forward to the contributions they will make at Westlake Boys.
Students help Auckland win National Ul7 cricket title
Three Westlake boys flew out on 12 January to Christchurch to represent Auckland at the National Under 17 cricket tournament, and the team returned home as national champions. Kian Krause, Liam Kristiffor and Levi Harvey played key roles throughout the week, helping Auckland secure the title. They were joined in the wider squad by Westlake students Jaxon Wilson and Vinay Varadajaran, who were named as non-travelling reserves.
The Auckland side enjoyed an outstanding tournament, with impressive performances from our Westlake players.
• Liam Kristiffor: 117 runs at an average of 39, including seven fours and eight sixes
• Kian Krause: 161 runs at an average of 40.25, including 20 fours
This win adds to a strong run of representative success. Former Westlake students featured in the Auckland U19 side that won the National Tournament in
December. Brandon Matzopoulos (class of 2025) and Luke Harrison (2024) were selected for the New Zealand U19 squad currently competing at the World Cup in Zimbabwe. Jordan Van Zyl (2025) has earned selection for the Auckland A and Development teams, and Bevan John Jacobs (2020) continues to impress for the Auckland Aces in the Super Smash. It is an exciting time for cricket at Westlake Boys, with our players continuing to shine on the regional and national stage.
Matt stars at Global Youth Sevens
Over the summer break, Matt Fleming represented New Zealand U18 at the Global Youth Sevens tournament at Dilworth and delivered an outstanding campaign. He was voted MVP in the final against Australia, which they won 41-10 and was named in the Tournament team, recognising him as one of the top players in the competition. Earlier in December, Matt also won the Sky Fans Try of the Year award for his try against Whangārei Boys High School in the North Harbour 1A Final.
Matt Fleming, third from right, was awarded the MVP in the final and was included in the tournament team.
Celebrating excellence at annual prizegiving
It was a week of celebration and school pride as the Junior and Intermediate schools held their annual prizegiving ceremonies at the end of 2025. These events honoured students who demonstrated outstanding academic excellence and a commitment to their learning throughout the year.
The ceremonies recognised a wide breadth of talent, with awards presented for Catholic Character, sporting achievements, and the Chefs for Compassion initiative. Special congratulations go to Deacon Harrison (Intermediate Dux), Lemuel Joseph (Junior Dux) and Sam James (Intermediate Sportsman of the Year).
Rosmini hosts TOTCUS Symposia
Rosmini College's TOTCUS group recently hosted its third Climate Impact Symposium, a massive global event involving 148 students. The initiative bridged time zones with an "East" session for Europe and Asia, and a "West" session featuring visitors from Singapore's Raffles Institution on their eighth visit to the college. The symposium was a truly international collaboration, featuring presentations from students in eight countries - including Finland, India, and Chile - reaching an online audience across six continents. Participants explored the physical, social, and indigenous impacts of climate change.
A key theme of this year's event was the transition from gathering information to taking tangible action. The microplastics group has expanded its scope from beach sand surveys to investigating tyre tread shedding and the health impacts of nanoplastics in the human body. The freshwater team has deepened its study of Lake Pupuke, while a new "Chiwi" partnership between Chilean and Kiwi students is now evaluating how climate-proof our classrooms really are. These ambitious projects are set to continue their growth throughout 2026.
Junior rugby takes on national stage
Rosmini College's Year 9 and 10 rugby team recently showcased their talent at the prestigious Condor 7s Tournament in Mt Maunganui. As the premier national event for high school sevens, the competition featured the top 32 schools from across New Zealand. The Rosmini squad made an immediate impact, finishing unbeaten on day one to secure a spot in the elite top eight. While injuries tested the team's depth during the day two finals, the boys showed immense grit against the nation's best. Despite three tough losses in the final rounds, their performance proved that Rosmini belongs among the top-tier of secondary school rugby.
Deacon Harrison and parents
Lemuel Joseph and parents
Mischa Thomas makes NZ Olympic team
TGS alumna Mischa Thomas has been selected for the New Zealand Winter Olympic team, fulfilling a lifelong dream. The freestyle halfpipe athlete earned her place after a strong run of qualifiers, including a career best fifth at the Aspen US Grand Prix - her strongest result yet on the international freeski circuit.
Mischa said she was “incredibly honoured and proud” to wear the Silver
Fern and thanked her coaches, family and supporters. Based in North America since mid-December, she navigated a packed schedule of Olympic qualifiers. Her Aspen result followed an impressive World Cup performance at Secret Garden in China, where she finished seventh among 27 of the world’s top freeskiers.
She was also selected as a reserve athlete for the X Games, an exceptional honour with only eight skiers invited to
TGS Dux Daniel Wang achieves rare perfect IB score
Takapuna Grammar School is celebrating an outstanding set of International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma results for 2025, highlighted by TGS Dux Daniel Wang achieving a perfect score of 45 – a distinction earned by fewer than 1% of IB candidates worldwide.
Students achieved a 97.3% pass rate, with 90% gaining 30 points or more and an impressive average score of 35. High achievement was a defining feature of this year’s cohort: 16.2% of students earned 40 points or higher, placing them in the top 8% of IB students globally. Six students reached this elite tier. Takapuna Grammar was the first public school in New Zealand to offer the IB Diploma, and these exceptional results further reinforce its reputation as one of the country’s strongest IB providers. The achievements will be recognised at an awards ceremony at Parliament on 31 January.
each field. “This is the pinnacle of action sports and has been my dream since I first saw the event,” she said. “Receiving the invite was surreal.” A triplet and one of five TGS siblings, Mischa recently appeared on TVNZ Breakfast for the launch of New Zealand’s Winter Olympic uniform, speaking about the discipline behind her success and the sacrifices involved - including spending Christmas away from family.
Top‑achieving teen off to Ivy League university
Recent TGS graduate Gavin Wu is heading to the United States after securing a full scholarship to prestigious Ivy League institution Brown University. The summa cum laude scholar – known for his leadership and wide-ranging talents – was stunned by the news, with Brown accepting just 16.5% of early-decision applicants. Gavin’s time at TGS was marked by exceptional academic success: excellence endorsements across all NCEA levels, NZQA Scholarships in Years 11 and 12, and A+ grades in university papers during Year 13. He excelled as a top table tennis player, performed lead roles in school productions and choirs, and served as both prefect and student representative on the Board of Trustees.
Gavin expressed deep gratitude for the support he received. “I know from my experience on stage singing that so much work goes on unseen behind the scenes, and I appreciate all the teachers, peers, and, of course, my parents who have helped me behind the scenes to get here.” At Brown, Gavin plans to study political science, with the long-term goal of returning to Aotearoa to serve as an MP. Principal Mary Nixon said she was incredibly proud of Gavin’s achievements and that he “was a deserving recipient of the scholarship.”
Mischa Thomas
Daniel Wang
Gavin Wu with Minister of Education Hon Erica Stanford
How to make New Year’s resolutions that actually stick
If you’ve ever watched the countdown to midnight while imagining a 'new year, new me' version of yourself – healthier, more organised, less chaotic – you’re not alone. The new year has a way of bringing out equal parts motivation and selfjudgement. We tell ourselves this is the year we finally get our life together. And then… February hits.
Most New Year’s resolutions don’t fail because we’re lazy or unmotivated. They fail because we set ourselves up with unrealistic expectations and then beat ourselves up when we can’t keep up. The truth is, self-improvement isn’t about overnight transformations. It’s a long game, and it doesn’t have to involve guilt, shame, or burning yourself out. Here’s how to make New Year’s resolutions that actually have a chance of sticking.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION?
The best resolutions are realistic, specific, and connected to your everyday life. A lot of people struggle because their goals are too vague or way too intense. Instead of saying, “I’m going to work out every day”, try something smaller, like committing to walking into the gym and staying for ten minutes. It sounds almost pointless, but it works. Small actions are easier to repeat, and consistency is what builds habits. Once showing up feels normal, you can slowly increase the effort. Sustainable change starts small, not with all-or-nothing energy that disappears after a few weeks.
By Fantasia Nair
HOW MANY RESOLUTIONS SHOULD YOU SET?
Less is more. Aim for three to five resolutions max. The more goals you set, the harder it is to stay consistent, and burnout is real. Each resolution requires daily effort, even if it’s small. Writing them down can also make a big difference. Handwriting your goals helps cement your intentions, increases accountability, and shifts how you see yourself from “someone who wants to change” to “someone who is changing”.
KNOW YOUR “WHY”
A resolution without a reason won’t last. If you don’t know why you’re doing something, it’s easy to give up when motivation dips. Instead of focusing on how you want to look, think about how you want to feel. Eating better might mean more energy and clearer skin. Moving your body could help with anxiety, stress or sleep. A lot of people set goals because they feel like they should, not because they actually want the outcome. If your motivation is based purely on social pressure or aesthetics, it’s harder to stay committed. Ask yourself: Why does this matter to me? If you can’t find an answer, it’s okay to let that goal go.
CHECK YOUR ENVIRONMENT
• Your surroundings play a bigger role in your habits than you might think. Motivation isn’t just about willpower; it’s also about how easy (or hard) your environment makes things. Look around
your space and ask yourself:
• Is this helping or hindering me?
• Would leaving your running shoes by the door make it easier to go for a walk?
• Would better lighting at your desk help you focus?
• Would keeping healthy snacks visible stop you from defaulting to whatever’s quickest?
Small changes in your environment can remove friction and make good habits feel more natural.
PLAY THE LONG GAME
Progress isn’t linear, and that’s okay. Our brains are wired to chase instant gratification, which is why old habits are hard to break. Slipping up doesn’t mean you’ve failed; it just means you’re human. If you don’t tick off every goal by the end of the year, that doesn’t cancel out the progress you did make. Something done imperfectly is always better than something never started. Growth isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, again and again, even when it’s messy.
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.
Refined coastal elegance in a prestigious enclave 46B Clifton Road, Takapuna
Discreetly positioned in one of Takapuna’s most exclusive streets.
This contemporary three-level home offers exceptional coastal living just moments from Takapuna Beach Designed to maximise light, privacy and indoor-outdoor flow, the modern kitchen, dining and lounge form the heart of the home, complemented by a cosy family room. Living areas open to sunny, sheltered decks, perfect for year-round entertaining Upstairs features three generous double bedrooms, including a master with deck, walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, while a fourth bedroom on the ground level suits guests, teenagers or extended family A double internalaccess garage, off-street parking and landscaped gardens complete the home An easy walk to Takapuna Grammar and close to shops, dining and motorway links, this impeccably presented property comes with a builder ’s report available A rare opportunity to secure privacy, prestige and position in one of the North Shore’s most sought-after locations. Vendors are committed to selling.
Auction (unless sold prior) 1 30pm, Thursday 5th March 2026 28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand
Blair Monk +64 21 399 966 blair.monk@bayleys.co.nz Phone for
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.
Midlife challenges: lessons from the sandwich years
Megan didn’t have a very good end to 2025. She and her husband Tim had been going through a rocky patch for the past two years and had made the difficult decision to separate just before Christmas. They told their children, now in their early twenties. They were naturally upset, as they had no idea how unhappy the marriage had been. Afterwards, Megan felt a sense of relief that the marriage was over but was equally upset when she heard through a mutual friend that Tim was already seeing another woman.
Megan thought that she and Tim would be able to work through the details of the separation of their assets amicably without too much need for lawyers. But immediately Tim insisted on keeping the family holiday home and started coming with ridiculously low offers for it. Megan didn’t mind him buying her out of the home (it felt tainted after she heard he had taken his new girlfriend there) but she wanted to be treated fairly. She felt it was time to see the lawyer her friend had recommended to her.
At the same time, Megan’s Aunty Marg was unwell. Aunty Marg had never married or had children. She had always been Megan’s “cool aunty” and they were really close. Megan had noticed that Aunty Marg was getting more eccentric as she aged, but what she hadn’t noticed was her eccentricity was early signs of dementia. When Aunty Marg called her to see if she could bring the wee children round to see her after they were picked up from pre-school, Megan knew something was wrong given her kids were old enough to have kids of their own. Megan went round to see Aunty Marg. The house was a tip and Aunty Marg looked like she hadn’t showered for days.
Megan took Aunty Marg to the doctor, who ran a series of tests. He said Marg should see a geriatrician, but it was clear she no longer had capacity and wasn’t in a position to look after herself in her own home. He recommended she go into care. He asked if Marg had powers of attorney in place. Megan didn’t know, so she looked into Aunty Marg’s legal affairs.
It turned out that Aunty Marg had a very old will, with no enduring powers of attorney. When Megan went to the lawyer about her separation, she also asked the lawyer about how she could be appointed as an attorney for Aunty Marg. The lawyer explained
that she would need to make an application to the court to be appointed. This process would be costly and time-consuming, but it was necessary to allow someone to act on Marg’s behalf and secure the appropriate care. Megan was the obvious person to make the application.
After her meeting with the lawyer, Megan reflected on where she was in life. She’d heard the term “sandwich years”, and it perfectly described her situation: sandwiched between the needs of elderly relatives and her young adult children, while dealing with her own personal challenges that had come with middle age.
Megan came to the realisation that she needed to take more proactive steps now, by keeping her legal affairs in order, to protect herself and the people she cared about. Life in the “sandwich years” was challenging, but with careful planning and the right support, Megan would be ready to face it.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND.
Sandwiched Between Two Generations.
Many in midlife find themselves caught in the “sandwich generation”, supporting ageing parents while also helping adult children. It’s a stage of life that brings emotional and financial pressures, often compounded by complex legal issues.
Proactive planning and clear legal advice can make all the difference. Whether it’s updating a will, putting agreements in place, or restructuring assets after a separation, it is possible to navigate your sandwich years with greater clarity and security.
Contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for expert advice today.
Project Employ - help create futures
Project Employ is proud to host its annual fundraising event, dedicated to raising vital funds and awareness for its employment programme, which helps neurodiverse young adults transition into paid, meaningful work.
Guests will enjoy an evening of connection and storytelling alongside a three-course meal, as well as silent and live auctions by auctioneer Shane Cortese. We will have live music throughout the
evening from local musician Nathan Fry, all contributing directly to the programme’s future. Every dollar raised helps graduates access training, mentoring, and opportunities to take the next steps in their employment journeys.
One of the highlights of the night will be hearing directly from graduates, their employers, and the Project Employ team. Their stories provide a personal and inspiring insight into how meaningful employment can transform lives, resulting in not just financial independence, but also dignity, purpose, and a sense of belonging.
By attending, you will help create stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
As demand grows for access to our employment programme, fundraising events like this are crucial to ensuring Project Employ’s sustainability and growth. By attending, you will help create stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.
Project Employ is very grateful to its sponsors, donors, and partners who are helping make this event possible. So please buy your tickets or table of 10, and join them for a night of inspiration, connection and meaningful change. Together, we are not just raising funds; we are opening doors, creating futures and changing lives.
Join us on Saturday 21 March and be part of a life-changing evening. Purchase your tickets today and help to continue the growth of the programme. Tickets available from projectemploy.nz or via the QR code.
Andre van Nierkirk, Mark Longbottom and Olivia Hunter
Emma Barrett, Angela Bloomfield and Hannah Sykes
Ben Bettany, Shani Gribben and Sarah Dann-Hoare Andre and Patricia Norman
Shane Cortese and Claire Colehouse
Nathan Fry
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
Busy times at our newly renovated community centre
During mid-December, we ran a low-key (due to our renovations) Christmas Bike Ride around Sunnynook Park. We had great weather, and the children enjoyed playing with equipment on the field while parents chatted on the deck.
We talked about how to make a submission for PC120 and had maps for people to look at. We were fortunate to have Ben Zhang chatting to people about making a hornet trap. Later in December, holidayprogramme participants enjoyed playing 'Kiwi Bubble Soccer', which was funded by the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board as part of the 'Out and About' series.
Over January 2026, we ran a very busy holiday programme and youth programme at the Sunnynook Community Centre and Kennedy Park. Even though the weather was challenging, we managed to have a great time. Luckily, the weather was okay for the visit from 'Hungerball', which was also part of the 'Out and About' series.
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction
Our third annual SJ Summer Sounds
We are beyond pumped to announce the return of our third annual SJ Summer Sounds! This year, the celebration carries extra weight as it marks the official opening of our newly upgraded outdoor area: a project we've been dreaming of for a long time.
At Shore Junction, our mission has always been to provide a world-class space where every young person feels they belong. Our latest upgrades are a huge step toward that goal. We have installed accessible decking and custom ramps that lead directly to the green, ensuring our outdoor space is truly inclusive. Whether you're heading outside to soak up the sun or joining a group activity, these improvements mean that everyone - regardless of mobility - can transition seamlessly between our indoor facilities and the vibrant outdoor area of our centre.
Our newly renovated community centre is once again heavily booked for 2026. There are dance classes, language classes, exercise classes, support groups, children's after-school activities, groups for the elderly, art classes, etc. Please check out our website, which will have all the up-to-date information on it. Our walking group has been meeting throughout January, and they would love more people to join them on Wednesday mornings.
On 28 February, we're putting that new decking to good use. SJ Summer Sounds is set to be a high-energy afternoon packed with everything that makes our community special. We've curated a lineup that celebrates local talent and sustainable living. You can look forward to:
Don't forget you can hire the Kennedy Park Observation Post, Beach Road, Castor Bay, for children's birthday parties, baby showers, family lunches, etc. Limited to 35 people, no alcohol, it is a great location for a small get-together. 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
• Live music: A stellar lineup of acts (check our Instagram to see the full lineup).
• Youth market: Support young entrepreneurs and creators as they showcase their unique crafts and businesses.
• Community wardrobe: Our popular clothing swap is backbring a few pre-loved items, find some new gems, and refresh your style.
• Outdoor games and kai: Grab some food, challenge your mates to a game on the green, and enjoy the new layout.
This is a free event for youth aged 13 - 24.
This event itself would not be possible without the incredible support of the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board to make Summer Sounds happen! Their commitment to investing in youth continues to allow us to create a modern, accessible hub that our community can be proud of. We can't wait to see you all on the 28th to celebrate this new chapter for Shore Junction!
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
Coaching our children for challenging situations
I've been thinking recently about the coaching our children receive for various pursuits, whether sporting, cultural, or of an entirely different category. While they are being coached, our children are being taught what to do both when things are going well and when things are not going as planned. They are taught how to recover their composure, how to adjust their approach and how to seek assistance from their teammates. They specifically rehearse for these different scenarios.
So why, I've been pondering, do we not explicitly coach our students for life's (inevitable) challenging situations?
In my household, I've started practising this 'coaching' theory in the car (no eye contact is needed, and there's no escaping the awkward conversation!), and it is done through a series of 'Hey, what if...?' questions, hypothetical scenarios that I pose to my son and allow him to tell me how he thinks he might respond. I'll give a few examples:
• "So what would happen if [insert name] showed you something inappropriate on their phone?"
• "Hey, what would you do if one of your friends were being really unkind to someone?"
• "Hey, what if you got separated from us at the football game; what do you think you would do?"
• "Hey, what do you think you would do if someone tried to talk to you online but you don't know them?"
My test model/son is only nine, so he's pretty open to these conversations, and I'm hopeful that making them commonplace early will be helpful as we move forward into even more complex topics, such as alcohol, relationships and whatever else arises as we navigate our way through to adulthood. I allow him to think and give his answer, and then I offer some ideas around what he might be able to do if he's unsure or doesn't have a solid plan (I'll admit that his plan is often flawed!).
The conversation always ends with some version of "you can tell me anything, there is nothing that you can tell me that will lead me to love you any less, and there is no problem we can't work out together". Now, let me remind you that he is nine, and we haven't hit any major road bumps yet, so I'm not saying that I'll be a model parent when these do arise, but I am hopeful that I will have done enough groundwork for him to trust me, and that he'll have a toolkit of rehearsed responses to call upon if/when necessary.
Our children need certainty regarding our responses to various circumstances. What I've observed from working with teens for the last 20 years is that if they are left to imagine how the adults in their lives might respond to different scenarios, they will almost always catastrophise. Their brains automatically gravitate towards the worstcase scenario; yet if they already have an idea of the response they can expect, they are much more likely to confide in us and receive helpful advice, thereby strengthening their connection with us at the same time.
I hope everyone had a great festive break, and I encourage you to find time and space over the next few months to try out some 'Hey, what would you do if...?' conversations!
By Alison Dymond - Director.
Ali is an experienced lawyer and leads the Property and Commercial team at Schnauer and Co. Ali approaches legal issues with a pragmatic mindset, striving to secure the most suitable business-oriented resolutions for her clients. Her passion for aiding others shines through, and collaborating with her clients to attain their objectives brings her a genuine feeling of accomplishment.
The property market explained: trends, tips and legal insights
Auckland remains the heartbeat of New Zealand’s housing market. If you already own a home or run a small business here and you’re thinking ahead for your children, now is a good time to take stock. This article explores today’s market trends, the impact of election-year uncertainty on property decisions, and the key legal insights every buyer should understand.
Auckland prices: what is changing? After the sharp correction from the 2022 peak, Auckland prices have stabilised. While they are still below previous highs, the market is showing signs of recovery. Experts in the industry expect modest growth of 3–5% in 2026, driven by steady demand and limited new supply. For families, this means a window of opportunity before prices climb again.
Interest rates: a rare advantage: Mortgage rates are sitting around 4.5–5%, thanks to the OCR dropping to 2.25% late last year. This is likely the bottom of the cycle, making current borrowing conditions attractive. If you are considering buying a property, perhaps for your children or as an investment, locking in now could save thousands over the life of your loan.
Why Auckland still leads: Despite recent dips, Auckland remains the economic and cultural hub of New Zealand. Strong employment, infrastructure investment, and population growth underpin long-term property value. For families and investors, Auckland offers stability and future-proof potential that smaller regions can’t always match. However, regional centres like Christchurch and Hamilton are seeing rapid growth because they can offer better value and lifestyle benefits than Auckland, making them attractive for family investments.
Legal considerations: Buying property isn’t just about price and interest rates – it also involves structure and compliance. Here is what to keep in mind:
• Ownership structures: If you are buying for your children, consider trusts or co-ownership agreements to protect assets and simplify succession.
• Bank lending rules: Debt-to-income and loan-to-value restrictions still apply, so structuring your finance correctly is key.
• Future-proofing: With an election ahead, tax and property rules could change. Getting legal advice now helps you stay ahead of policy shifts. Election year dynamics: what to expect in 2026: Election years typically slow decisions rather than derail the market. Buyers, especially investors, often pause to see where tax, lending, and housing policy will land. It is expected that there will be fewer sales leading into the vote, with price growth held back by strong supply and cautious buyer sentiment. Major political parties have flagged potential changes to the bright-line tax rule, and housing density is a key focus, while debt-to-income restrictions are also being discussed as part of broader lending reforms. Even before any legislation is passed, these discussions tend to shape buyer confidence and influence market behaviour.
Parting thoughts: Auckland’s property market is steady, and interest rates are favourable which makes this a prime time to act. The key is to think long-term and plan smart to protect your assets and secure your family’s future.
By Liz Ranger, Trust Manager, Pupuke Birdsong Project
Save the date: Discover Pupukemoana 2026
It’s a new year, and we have so many events coming up. Please have a look below, book and come and get involved.
Discover Pupukemoana 2026, 21 March. Save the date. Our third annual family fun day at Lake Pupuke with something for everyone: kayaking, snorkelling, harakeke weaving, activities for under 10s, sausage sizzle, guided walk, tour of The PumpHouse Theatre, competitions, win a kayak, learn about the ecology of the lake and reserve. Thanks to our fantastic partners, this year will be bigger and better than ever. Check our website for a link to book sessions, and save the date.
What’s on this month:
• Pupukemoana Care working bee, Sunday 15 February, 9:30am - 11:30am. Join us to protect Lake Pupuke. This session will focus on removing invasive plants and rubbish, improving the health of Pupukemoana, and supporting biodiversity.
• Rangatahi Restore Together, Sunday 15 February, 1pm - 3pm. Keen to get outside, learn something new, make friends, and give back to the environment? Join our youth-led group at Patuone Reserve.
• Narrow Neck to Takapuna Beach Walk, Exploration & Clean-Up, Saturday 7 March, 8am – 10am. Join us and Restoring Takarunga Hauraki for a coastal walk. We’ll pick up rubbish along the way, learn about the local environment, and explore how we can help care for this beautiful ecosystem.
• Stream Care, Saturday 7 March, 1-3pm. Join us to help restore William Souter Reserve, supporting a healthier, more floodresilient waterway. We will be removing pest plants and picking up rubbish to improve stream flow and the overall health of the reserve.
Please BYO gloves. Spare gloves can be provided on a nonreturnable 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.
2026 is bringing with it some exciting opportunities and projects, including an upcoming spot in Auckland's Pride Parade. I.Pride, our new programme supporting LGBT+ disabled youth, is excited to be taking part in such an awesome event. This parade is scheduled for 21 March.
We also encourage you to keep an eye out for next month's Open Doors Day (ODD) on 24 March, a day that encourages employers in our community to open their doors to employing young disabled people. It shouldn't be ODD to see disabled youth in employment!
Our I.Drive workshops are travelling throughout the country! In just the first few months, we have workshops scheduled in Auckland's North Shore, Christchurch, West Auckland, Wellington, Manawatū, Dunedin, South Auckland, and Hamilton! The I.Drive licencing programme supports disabled people in gaining their licences by hosting theory workshops that explore the road code in an interactive and comprehensive manner. Want more information about these workshops? You can learn more on our website ilead.org.nz/programs-i-drive-licensing-program/ Registrations are open for I.Power for 2026. I.Power is our 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. Four 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.. This programme takes place on Wednesday mornings at Shore Junction. Keen to learn more? Get in touch with Rebecca at rebecca@ilead.org.nz.
We are excited to continue growing our Te Ara Tāne: The Path of Men community. 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 17 February. 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
ANCAD launches the new LiiFT Aotearoa capability framework
Happy new year everyone! We trust you had a refreshing break and have a clear vision of what you need to do in 2026. ANCAD is looking forward to walking alongside community organisations this year, offering learning, advice and practical support to help you build strong foundations and plan confidently for what's ahead.
LiiFT Aotearoa professional development and training for NFP/community groups/individuals
LiiFT Aotearoa is ANCAD's capability-building framework, supporting community organisations to strengthen governance, leadership, funding readiness, and organisational sustainability across every stage of their development. Explore upcoming LiiFT learning below and find sessions that match your organisation's stage and priorities.
3 February, 6.30pm-7.45pm. On Zoom. FREE.
The Incorporated Societies Act changes: re-register or risk closure. What your society needs to know.
10 February, 6.30pm-7.45pm. On Zoom. FREE.
The difference between governance and management.
12 February, 10am-11.30am. On Zoom. Standard fee.
Leadership in Times of Change series. Trends and challenges 2026: A 90-minute strategic scan for NFP leaders.
For more information and how to register for the above courses go to LiiFT.nz or contact info@ancad.org.nz with your expression of interest.
Time on your hands? Lots of opportunities to get involved
39 The Strand, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz Join the TBC community today – fun, friendship & the ocean breeze await. Plus – Members enjoy 20% off at our bar! Regular social fixtures:
Early days of the East Coast Bays RSA
By David Verran
At a time of high unemployment in the late 1920s and early 1930s, several Returned Soldiers' clubs were formed across the North Shore, including the East Coast Bays in 1933. Their formation was in part to promote local work schemes.
The first President of the East Coast Bays club was James Campbell Rennie, who was born in Auckland in 1890 and was well qualified to start the new organisation. Rennie had enlisted for the First World War in 1916, left New Zealand in the 20th Reinforcement, and served in the Machine Gun Corps on the Western Front. Wounded, he was promoted to sergeant and became an instructor. He returned to New Zealand in 1919 and set up a legal practice. An Auckland Grammar pupil from 1906, he had studied at the Auckland University College from 1908 to 1910. Rennie had an early introduction to the legal system when he was called as a witness in a 1903 court case concerning the death of Sarah Morris in Māngere.
Formerly Epsom residents, the Rennie family moved to Mairangi Bay around 1931 and bought a house called Seven Oaks in Brighton Terrace. Rennie then served two terms as the Takapuna Riding representative on the Waitemata County Council, from May 1932 to 1938. As the local representative, he was the perfect choice to lead the newly formed club.
However, he only served for one year as Club President, as in 1934 he was elected to the Auckland War Memorial Museum Council. He later became president of that council. The Rennie family continued to live in Mairangi Bay until the mid-1940s, when they returned to Epsom. Nevertheless, Rennie continued his links with Mairangi Bay, becoming the honorary solicitor for the Mairangi Bay Ratepayers' and Householders' Association in October 1945. He died in 1978.
Other early presidents include James Hurnall Wemyss, who was born in Doncaster, England, in 1874, served in the South African war at the turn of the nineteenth and twentieth century and then joined the Wellington Regiment in the First World War. Farming in Browns Bay, he was president of the club from 1940 to 1941, and 1945 to his death on 17 December 1946. He is buried in St Mary's Pioneer Cemetery in Torbay.
William Alexander Knowles was born in Wellington in 1877, served in the Otago Regiment in the First World War and lived in Murrays Bay. He was president from 1942 to 1944 and died in 1954.
Alexander Park was born in Aberdeenshire in 1890, served in the Wellington Regiment in the First World War and lived in Clifton Road in Browns Bay. He was president from 1944 to 1945 and died in 1970.
Hugh Kenneth McDermott was born in Cambridge in the Waikato in 1896, although his Army records claim 1893. Formerly a bank employee, he served in the Mounted Rifles in the First World War and from 1938 was the motor camp proprietor in Clyde Road, Browns Bay.
He was president from 1947 to 1948 and died in 1981.
Martin (Marty) Robert Donovan was born in New Zealand in 1917 and was the first East Coast Bays Club President to have only served in the Second World War, in the Third Division of the 2nd NZEF. He was president from 1948 to 1949, 1952 to 1954 and 1958 to 1959, and died in 1974.
Previously meeting in the Progress Hall in Browns Bay (which opened 30 June 1934), the club incorporated in 1945, then purchased land in Clyde Road, and built its first clubrooms in the early 1950s. In March 1977, a new building costing $1.5 million opened on that site, and that was sold in 2017.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
Campbell Rennie
with Lindsay Knight
Harbour bowlers at singles and pairs nationals
The national championship singles and pairs in Christchurch over the New Year holiday period was one of mainly modest achievement for bowlers from the North Harbour centre.
In part, that’s because relatively few bowlers from the northern part of the country made the trip south, the travel and accommodation costs being too prohibitive for most.
But from a Harbour viewpoint there was at least interest on the final day provided by two Black Jacks, Leeane Poulson and Tony Grantham.
Leeane has only just joined the Harbour centre, having played most of her bowls until this season for the Papakura club in the Counties centre.
But she has joined the Takapuna club and was in its colours when playing a memorable match in the women’s singles final. And earlier this season she won the Harbour women’s triples championship playing with her new Takapuna club-mates, Robyne Walker and Hannah Dawson.
Her effort to finish runner-up to Canterbury’s Mandy Boyd, indeed, furthered a remarkable record Takapuna has had in the past four seasons in the national women’s singles event. Selina Goddard, currently playing most of her bowls on an almost professional basis in Australia, won the title in the 2022-23 season, beating another Black Jack Tayla Bruce 21-20 in an epic final and last season Wendy Jensen was a Takapuna member when finishing runner-up.
In fact, the winner in the 2023-24 season was none other than Leeane, as a Papakura member. Despite her loss in this season’s final Leeane emerged with plenty of plaudits, because of her determination in battling Boyd, who with her 21-16 win confirmed herself as one the country’s best-ever women bowlers.
She is now among a small group with at least 10 national titles and also had the distinction of a notable double at these nationals, for earlier she had won the pairs. As well as her considerable ability she had the added advantage of playing at her home green.
Grantham has played most of his competitive bowls in recent seasons for Auckland’s Mount Albert club.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
Leeane Poulson in action
Takapuna's Leeane Poulson was runner up in the singles
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!).
We live in paradise, but…
It’s 2026 and I must report that I had a wonderful holiday in Russell where I go every year. I caught up with a lot of friends, swam at Long Beach, had coffee most mornings with the locals, did a bit of boating, watched a lot of cricket, played a lot of scrabble, normal things I love doing on holiday. We do live in a blessed part of the world when you see the turmoil and dark clouds that are spread over so much of the world.
It was interesting to see a big protest in Whangaparaoa about the stripping of the shellfish from every rock pool in the area. As I mentioned in a column a while ago, the same thing happened in Devonport, particularly on Cheltenham Beach, some years ago. I believe the residents are pretty vigilant now and I also believe the cockles are growing back well on Cheltenham beach, thanks to these vigilant residents. I remember as child exploring the rock pools down on Duder’s Beach and Torpedo Bay. The sea life was immense, but no longer these days. Sometimes a bit of civil rule is a good thing. If you see people stripping the rock pools, it’s good to educate them, which I do quite often.
While talking about that part of the world, I did a count of new construction between Esmonde Road, Belmont and halfway down Bayswater Avenue. Where 16 houses once stood with a total of 16 toilets and enough room to park at least two cars in each property, there have been over 120 new houses built (or currently under construction) in the last year. If you look at 2.5 bathrooms per house, that’s 300 toilets. The houses will attract close to 500 cars and there will be thousands of square metres of roofing collecting rain water to be poured down infrastructure that hasn’t been touched in decades. And this is just the beginning of it.
2026 is election year. Let’s for god’s sake not let Labour, the Greens or the Māori party back anywhere near the Treasury benches. It would be an absolute disaster. It seems like the National, Act and New Zealand First coalition is getting things in order the best they can after the disaster of the last Labour government. Christopher Luxon is probably not the most charismatic person you’ve ever met, but he and his team seem to be doing a real good job. So, it’s up to all of us to keep the coalition government in power. I for one will be retiring at my young age if the Labour party get anywhere near power. It will be an absolute disaster.
We do live in a blessed country when Scott (Razor) Robertson getting the DCM (don’t come Monday) from New Zealand Rugby took up four complete days of television and radio reporting. I thought it incredible when the national news led with the sacking of the All Blacks coach, closely followed by 40 eels being killed in some creek in South Auckland, followed by a cat up a tree and a lost dog. As I said previously, so much of the world is in turmoil.
Again, the cyclonic weather event of last mid-January goes to prove how vulnerable our country can be. At the top of the North Island we are a pretty small slip of land in the middle of a huge ocean. I can’t believe it's global warming or climate change; these events have been happening for a thousand years of longer. All that has happened is that people with vehicles and boats have got in the way. Roads have been constructed in precarious places sitting on the sides of hills with very little base course, 20mm of hot mix and insufficient drainage. Constructed originally for a horse and cart and now expected to take trucks and buses, the structural integrity is not there and very unlikely to be there in the coming years. As I said previously, we are a country of over five million people, with under half of these people paying tax, yet we want the nice things: world class schools and hospitals, stadiums that match what they have in the United States, pension payments, accident compensation payments, unemployment payments, sole parent payments and the list goes on. We want so much but unfortunately the dollar doesn’t go around to cover all of these.
Christopher Luxon is probably not the most charismatic person you’ve ever met, but him and his team seem to be doing a real good job.
We are in paradise when it comes to our beaches, our scenery and our outdoor way of life. Somebody wrote a book once called ‘The Half-Gallon Quarter-Acre Pavlova Paradise’. We’ve let thousands of immigrants into the country in the last 20 years. I believe firmly that at times these were not the right people to build our economy. Too many Uber drivers, not enough doctors; too many dairy owners, not enough engineers; too many with degrees that they are unable to use in this country due to some reason or another. Maybe we do need a population of 10-12 million people. I know the country could hold it. Look at Japan with the same sort of land area and 100 million people. Who knows what the answer is.
By the way, it's 56 years this year since I started working with my great mate Walter Gill. I’m surprised he is still talking to me. It has been a great friendship and a great business partnership. I am a lucky man.
Publisher's note: This article was written prior to the tragic weather events of January.
www.benefitz.co.nz
Benefitz helps bring Michelangelo exhibition to life!
In the latter part of 2025, the Benefitz team undertook a wonderful project that displayed the wide (and impressive) breadth of our capability. This involved producing the large, printed artworks and all the related printing, display and signage items for the ‘Michelangelo – A Different View’ exhibition being held at Tākina in Wellington from 22 December until 22 February.
The items produced by Benefitz for the event included huge printed and framed artworks, custom-printed carpet, directional signs, event programmes and booklets, merchandise, a selfie wall, container wrap, and adhesives for the large venue windows, as well as pre-promotion on the Wellington Cable Car. All items were produced by Benefitz in Auckland and installed on site in Wellington from 16 to 19 December in time for the opening on Monday 22 December.
“This is the second time we have helped the promoters Stewart and Tricia Macpherson of Stetson Group with this event,” explains
Benefitz founder and Managing Director Aidan Bennett. “We also helped back in late 2021 when it was held at the Aotea Centre in Auckland. It was a thrill four years on to get the call to help them again. The items from 2021/22 were not retained, so everything had to be created from scratch once again.
“This event is a real testament to what we are capable of as a business. We are building quite a reputation for events. One of the artworks – The Genesis floor image – is five metres wide by 20 metres long, which we could print in one piece in high resolution. To my knowledge, there is no other supplier in New Zealand that can. There were over 40 high-quality, big images printed and framed/ stretched for the exhibition.
“We produced these in Auckland, they were transported to Wellington, and then a team of four of us spent three days installing them on site at Tākina – along with a range of other support items. Once again, it was very satisfying to see what we delivered for our very happy customer.”
This event is a real testament to what we are capable of as a business. We are building quite a reputation for events.
The Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre is an impressive facility. It is a relatively new purpose-built venue that combines two plenary halls of conference space with a public gallery that hosts an exciting programme of touring exhibitions. Located opposite Te Papa Museum, it is a great venue for 'Michelangelo - A Different View'.
MICHELANGELO – A Different View, on until Sunday 22 February, Tākina, Wellington. Visit www.stetsongroup.com for more information.
DISPLAYS HIGH IMPACT
HIGH IMPACT PORTABLE DISPLAY SYSTEMS
At Benefitz we have a wide range of high impact portable displays that can be produced very economically.
We import or manufacture the hardware and then print and finish the easy-to-assemble displays.
We stock displays from 600mm to 6 metres wide and can also custom-make displays to any size.
• Packing services, and more. 022 024 6753 moving@prontomovers.co.nz • www.prontomovers.co.nz
RENOVATIONS
AUTOMOTIVE
MICHIES AUTOMOTIVE 20 COMO STREET, TAKAPUNA
FOR
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
FL AGS & FAB R I C !
At Benefitz we design and produce just about anything that assists communication. Business Cards, Magazines, Signage, Websites, Books, Brochures, Posters, Banners and lots lots more!
Over the past 18 months we’ve made a massive investment in fabric – and we love it! W ith our state-of-the-art machinery we produce lots and lots of flags and many other items with vibrant printed fabric – like exhibition items, display stands, media walls etc etc
Talk to Aidan Bennett (021500997) or email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz
www.benefitz.co.nz
Phone us on 09 477 4700
Find us on
The Channel Crossword
"An Alphabetical Jigsaw” by Māyā of Auckland
L Pig cutting fat - and port (8)
M 'Transformers' character not for example head nurse (6)
N None are right - distance is neither better nor worse (2,6)
O "Tea, hon?" funnily, this means "ready to mate!" (2,4)
P Defaults from film splitting the Fourth Estate (7)
Q Gag some sesquipedalianists (4)
R Gosh, occupying socialists used to make lists (7)
S Is band playing for mariner? His fortune he's making (6)
T One is in article on all too unlawful taking (8)
U Bring up radium or plutonium to make a big noise (6)
V State twice: very low returns may be exciting to boys (2-2-4)
W Something heading for inevitable precipitation? (4,4,2)
A Hill dweller to run away from horned beast (8)
B Empty bottle to avoid bother of Canadian feast (6-4)
C Makes a U working out sum with Coral (8)
D Easily passed over knock? That's immoral (8)
E Necessitates (brings about) a silent course (7)
F Pipe with 50% chance of magical force (7)
G $1000.00 for target's location (6,4)
H 2 joints - who heard Man's ovation? (3,3,6)
I Tisane may be contained by source of nuclear blast (8)
J Religious betrayer dropping behind left in charge at last (8)
K Bird brought up a rook taking shine to an odd sort (10)
X He's upset about one short immunisation (6)
Y Back from holiday, lend 'and to make high pitched shout (4)
Z 'oot 'orn in last letter if you're tuckered out (6)
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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