NORTH SHORE’S MONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR NEWS, VIEWS, EVENTS AND PEOPLE
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Bowel habits change with the seasons -
When is it normal and when is it not?
Have you ever noticed your bowel habits change with the seasons? What’s normal for summer might not be the same in winter, and sometimes these changes are worth paying attention to.
Seasonal shifts in bowel habits, influenced by diet, travel, activity levels, and stress are common and often nothing of concern. However, sudden or ongoing symptoms that don’t improve with usual habits may point to something more serious, making awareness of early action important.
A colonoscopy is a safe and effective procedure that allows us to examine the inside of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It can help identify issues such as inflammation, polyps, or early signs of bowel cancer. A colonoscopy can offer reassurance and peace of mind when symptoms persist.
At Waitematā Endoscopy, we aim to make taking a proactive approach to your gut health easy. We accept GP, specialist, and self-referrals via our website. Our experienced specialists are able to perform most standard colonoscopy and gastroscopy procedures within seven working days of receiving the referral. Take a virtual tour of
are introducing...
Dr Anthony Brownson
Dr Anthony Brownson
Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist
Gastroenterologist & Endoscopist are introducing...
Waitemata Endoscopy is delighted to share that we are further increasing capacity to be able to offer you greater access to exceptional endoscopy care with Dr Brownson.
Appointments are available within 7 working days for most Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy procedures by matching you with the availability of our Gastroenterologists & Surgeons*
Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self-refer at:
www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/referrals
WE have you covered from 'Top to Bottom'
Dr Anthony Brownson Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist
ANDREW DORREEN
Positioned in the highly sought-after seaward side location, within a short flat walk to Milford Beach, Milford Mall, local shops and eateries, 44 Milford Road has everything quite literally on your doorstep.
Set on a freehold 481m² site, this beautifully renovated residence features trusted rendered brick and cedar construction, complemented by new double-glazed joinery and all-new interiors.
The home presents a relaxed yet very contemporary coastal aesthetic, with fresh white décor, shutters, and oak flooring, adding both warmth and practicality. The ground-floor living layout is perfect, with two separate areas that offer flexibility for families and those who enjoy entertaining. The kitchen features gorgeous marble benchtops, double ovens, a gas hob and an open scullery, offering additional preparation and storage space – a superb space!
A generous open-plan dining and living area can be closed off from the kitchen space when desired. The living rooms both open to a louvre-
Electric driveway gates and security cameras enhance privacy and security, making this an exceptional lock-up-and-leave or permanent residence. PRIME
Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ
Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008
covered deck complete with an outdoor fireplace and side screens, creating a private, sheltered, year-round entertaining zone. Steps lead down to a flat artificial lawn ideal for young families, grandchildren or small dogs to enjoy with no maintenance. To the rear of the kitchen is an additional deck area featuring a spa pool and outdoor shower – perfect after a morning swim at the beach. A separate guest toilet, internalaccess double garage with integrated laundry and roof storage completes the lower level.
Upstairs are three generous double bedrooms, all with ducted air conditioning, ceiling fans and newly fitted wardrobes. The master suite is well-proportioned, with its own balcony and beautiful ensuite bathroom. A study nook area provides an ideal work-from-home space, while a newly renovated family bathroom and separate toilet service the remaining bedrooms.
Wake to the sound of waves, the sunrise over Rangitoto and simply panoramic views from one of Milford’s most coveted seaward-side addresses. Perfectly positioned on 715 m² of prime beachfront land, this substantial 474 m² Cape Cod-inspired residence delivers timeless elegance, privacy, and direct beach access.
The home underwent a complete refurbishment ten years ago under the careful eye of master builder Glover Homes. The home was extensively modified and improved with new cedar cladding, new double-glazed joinery and all new interiors with the addition of air conditioning for the first two levels as well as the master suite.
Elevated and privately set behind a substantial stone wall along the beach walkway, it offers both seclusion and privacy along with the unmatched, uninterrupted views.
Inside, exquisite interiors showcase high-quality finishes throughout. The thoughtfully designed main level features two generous lounges flanking
a stunning, expansive kitchen, truly the heart of the home and perfect for family living and entertaining. It also has a nice butler's pantry for food preparation and extra storage.
In terms of accommodation, the home offers:
• Up to five spacious bedrooms (or four and an office as it is currently configured). All bedrooms have sea and Rangitoto views, with the master having its own balcony.
• Three separate sitting areas, including a games room on its own floor, perfect to house a pool table and lounge for the children.
• Three beautifully appointed bathrooms, including a lovely ensuited master.
• Generous two-car garaging (8.7m), additional off-street parking (ideal for a boat), and the security of an electronic driveway gate.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to secure one of Milford’s finest beachfront residences.
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.
On the cover: Top left: Richard Guerra and Bruce Powell. Top right: Albert Henry Shaw, 1914, 23rd Reinforcements, Auckland Infantry Regiment, A Company, with his identity tag, thanks to Robyn Arblaster. Bottom right: Anzac Day Service in Devonport.
Welcome to our April 2026 issue of Channel Mag. Your FREE magazine highlighting all that’s good about living on the North Shore.
In this issue, we honour Anzac Day. Our striking cover, designed by our clever Channel Mag and Benefitz designer Crystal Sharp, is a beauty. Paula Arblaster and our team have put together an excellent Anzac Day feature, speaking with local people involved in commemorating the day and exploring what it means to them, and providing information on events happening on the Shore and how the community can get involved. Every year on 25 April in New Zealand, workplaces and schools close in recognition of those who serve and have served New Zealand in times of war, conflict and disaster, but also in remembrance of a specific World War I campaign that happened over a hundred years ago at Gallipoli.
Included in this issue is also a special feature focusing on 'Money matters: Financial insights and advice on how to handle your money in today's fiscal climate'. Channel Mag’s Liz Cannon speaks to Katie, David, Jess and Liam – four local experts who share their views and advice on how to strengthen your financial position, build monetary confidence and be money-savvy as we move into the new fiscal year ahead.
Christine Young was tasked with finding out why a number of our national SUP (Stand
Up Paddleboarding) champions are Shore people. Last month, at the conclusion of the New Zealand SUP championships at Takapuna Beach, the six overall championship podium places, plus other awards, were won by North Shore paddlers. Christine spoke to three of the winners for this issue.
World Parkinson's Day is held annually on 11 April to raise global awareness of Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological disorder affecting over 10 million people worldwide. Held on the birthday of Dr James Parkinson, the day focuses on education, reducing stigma, funding research for a cure, and supporting those living with the condition. This takes on more significance for me in 2026, as I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in October. Since that time, I have been coming to grips with what the challenge of living with Parkinson’s looks like for me going forward. I’m not sure that I can beat it, but I am determined to do everything I can to keep it at bay. Remaining active is very important. I trust you will enjoy your 100-page-plus April Channel Mag. There really is something in here for everyone. Have a great April.
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.
EXPERIENCE ITALY IN DEVONPORT
Enjoy a night of fine Italian wine, beautiful food, and live music at the iconic Stone Oven Café in Devonport, where the legendary JeanJacques Bourvis will guide guests through a carefully selected range of Italian wines – sharing the craft, character and stories behind each bottle. All expertly paired with food by acclaimed chef Brendan Kyle. Friday 17 April, 6.30pm, Stone Oven, Devonport Tickets at spiritofdevonport.co.nz
DOES YOUR FUR BABY NEED A NEW FRIEND?
Lazypaws, the new boutique pet shop in Takapuna, has the cutest range of Paws Up pet toys. They’re tough, fun and have cheeky personalities! Bring your fur baby in to choose their new toy buddy. They also offer an exclusive cat litter brand that revolutionises the litter box, handmade dog treats, and a doggy day care. 447 Lake Road, Takapuna, lazypaws.co.nz
HELP OUT YOUR BUDDING YOUNG AUTHOR
Sign up your creative kid for a three-day school holiday writing camp for 9- to14year-olds. Professional author Brian Falkner (author of many popular kids' books like 'Northwood', 'Brainjack' and 'The Tomorrow Code') will be teaching students to create, develop, and write great stories. Kristin School, Tuesday-Thursday, 14-16 April. Sign up here writelikeanauthor.com
GUESS WHO’S BACK?
What’s better than a girls' night out with Meryl Streep, recapturing the glamour and bitchiness of her 2006 role as Miranda in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'! Book now to secure your place at the Bridgeway in Northcote Point, where your Girls Night Out ticket also gets you a glass of wine, a goodie bag packed full of treats, and the chance to win spot prizes. Wednesday 29 April 6.30pm, 122 Queen Street, Northcote Point. bridgeway.co.nz/girls-night-out
CLIMB YOUR WAY THROUGH THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Have your kids ever bouldered? Bouldering is a form of climbing without ropes, across walls with rock-shaped 'holds'. It’s a great way to get mentally and physically challenged as you complete a planned route. Northern Rocks is a bouldering and climbing gym in Wairau Valley for all ages, offering a school holiday programme for 8-14-year-olds. Sign the kids up and consider having a go yourself; they offer a fun foundation class for beginners. 101-111 Diana Drive, Wairau Valley, northernrocks.co.nz
THE HARMONY OF A GREAT PAD SEE EW Soft chewy noodles and crispy duck, that harmony between salty and sweet… new Southeast Asian restaurant Ju Zu in Takapuna does a mean Duck Pad See Ew. The chicken dumplings are also something special! Ju Zu Restaurant, 458 Lake Road, Takapuna, Tues-Sun 5-9.30pm, lunch Thurs-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm. juzu.co.nz
UP FOR AN AUTUMN SWIM?
The Round North Head Classic is a fixture for those who love an open water swim. It’s a 2.7km course around North Head from Windsor Reserve to Bath Street Reserve on Cheltenham Beach, with prizes for the fastest swimmers in each category, plus spot prizes at the end.
Register at raceroster.com/ events/2026/115138/the-2026-round-northhead-classic-swim. Saturday 2 May, 8am, confirmations open 6.30am at Windsor Beach Reserve.
THE COLOURFUL HISTORY OF MILFORD
The PumpHouse Theatre’s Creative Talks series is a fun and informative way to bring people together to learn from our creative community. April’s talk sees historian Debbie Dunsford discussing the colourful history of Milford in the 1910s to 1950s, when fading Victorian rules about proper behaviour were challenged by younger generations, and crowds flocked to revel at Milford’s entertainment venues. Monday 20 April, 7pm, The PumpHouse. Register at pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/ show/creative-talks-debbie-dunsford
Stars sizzle at local book launch
The launch of North Shore writer Johanna Emeney’s new book, 'Horses & Us: True stories of horses and their humans', drew a lively crowd at Takapuna library on Thursday 12 March. More than 120 guests mixed and mingled, including horse trainer and stunt double Dayna Pomare Pai. Local literary figures and rising equestrian talent Ben Weir also attended. Emeney spoke with bestselling author Stacy Gregg about their shared love of horses and storytelling. Paper Plus Takapuna’s Christopher Zhang sold lots of books, while live piano music and generous catering from the Friends of Takapuna Library added to the atmosphere; a vibrant celebration of community and creativity.
Photo credits Ben Raoult and Emily Pauling.
Stacy Gregg and Johanna Emeney
Nicola Legat, Stacy Gregg, C. K. Stead, Johanna Emeney and Dayna Pomare Pai
Judy and Peter Blakey, Michael Gifford and Jill Worrall
Erica, Ezra and Bruce Wills
Ben Weir and Vaughn Jefferis
Johanna Emeney and Dayna Pomare Pai
Ben Weir and Johanna Emeney
Jenny Farmer, Zoe Chamel and Lynette Herbke
Neville Vette, Rochelle Vette-Smith and Charlotte Smith
Celebrating International Women's Day at 'Give to Gain'
March was the month we celebrated International Women's Day. On Thursday 19 March, a group of lucky ladies was privileged to attend a special workshop, 'Give to Gain – Time for You'. Facilitated by Kate Birch, director at Thrive Together, and Purnima Trasi, yoga and Ayurveda coach specialising in perimenopause, the attendees were supported to create time to slow down, prioritise their wellbeing and learn tools for clarity, strengthening confidence, and building practical strategies for everyday mental health. All proceeds were donated to Women's Refuge, and the workshop was sponsored by BNZ Partner Services, Empower Her Community, Better Tea Co, and Abundant Soul Co.
For more information, contact Kate at thrivetogether.co.nz and Purnima at purnimatrasi.com.
Karen McKinlay, Debbie Barnett and Ursula Makasini
Chizo Chukwujama and Kirsten Macfarlane Emiko Morimoto and Tracy Gench
Liz Cannon, Ursula Makasini and Debbie Barnett
Kate Birch, Charlotte and Purnima Trasi
Charlotte, Kate Birch, Purnima Trasi, Ursula Makasini, Karen McKinlay and Debbie Barnett
Women in Business: Wendy Petrie
This year's first Business North Harbour 'Women in Business' speaker series was held on Friday 20 March at Harbour Hockey, Rosedale. Wendy Petrie was the entertaining keynote speaker, presenting an inspirational talk titled 'Have the courage to back yourself and embrace change'. After decades in the media spotlight, Wendy reinvented her career and stepped boldly into the world of business. She shared her powerful message about backing yourself when life takes an unexpected turn, with over 100 guests who gained insight into resilience and change as top-performing women in local business. Business North Harbour has a full calendar of events and presentations scheduled for 2026. Visit businessnh.org.nz for details.
Jane Francis, Nicole Donahoe, Catherine Hackett, Stacey Smith and Kimberley Tewari
Katrina King, Lexi Fletcher, Wendy Petrie and Stevie McBride
Joanne Fairley, Belinda Van Zyl, Martha Dobbie and Kira Beck
Vicky McAllister, Liz Cannon, Robyn Maxwell and Sophie Woodger
Tina Tan, Hannah McLaren and Amanda Chambers
Sandra Masters, Anita Hing, Lisa Hill and Lizelle Uys
Janet Marshall, Wendy Petrie and Debbie Cannon
Klaudia Wal, Kathleen Sando, Char Oliver, Jennifer Lees, Maggie Hanna and Karen McKinlay
Sam Jones, Kristina Behn and Kate Lawson
Sunny Lin, Elizabeth Viljoen and Gay Sowter
NZ Sculpture OnShore raises record sum for Women’s Refuge NZ
At a special event on Wednesday 25 March, Friends of Women’s Refuge Trust announced a record breaking $400,000 donation to NZ Women’s Refuge from the proceeds of the NZ Sculpture OnShore 2025 exhibition. The biennial exhibition of over 130 outdoor sculptures created by more than 120 New Zealand artists is the biggest outdoor fundraising event for the charity, and the largest of its kind in the country. The event held last year attracted 25,000 visitors – the biggest turnout in its 29-year history. Since its inception in 1996, NZ Sculpture OnShore has raised more than $3million for NZ Women’s Refuge. The most recent donation to NZ Women's Refuge will continue to support women and children fleeing situations of domestic violence and abuse. The next event will be held in November 2027. Photo credit: Kathryn Nobbs Photography.
Martin Cooper, Dee Paranihi, Naomi Ogg, Nick Gillies, Robyn Conway, Rachel Black and Hana Kakoi
Rachel Black, Judy Bailey ONZM, Naomi Ogg and Hana Kakoi
Brian Dewar and Trisha Whiting Trish Deans, Nikki Revell and Hannah Peary
Trisha Whiting, Kathryn Todd and Rachel Brebner
Dee Paranahi, Rachel Brebner, Naomi Ogg and Sally Lush
Natalie Aitken, Lisa McCloskey and Sandra McLachlan
Blake Harnett and Robyn Conway
Expanded access to medical imaging
Canopy continues to grow across the North Shore, with five clinic locations now offering advanced medical imaging services closer to home. Trusted care. Greater access. Local expertise.
209 Shakespeare Road, Milford
50 Greville Road, Pinehill
P 09 487 2555
E bookings@canopyimaging.co.nz
www.canopyimaging.co.nz
P 09 488 9179
E abc@aucklandbreastcentre.co.nz www.aucklandbreastcentre.co.nz
Tadpole Productions has secured the rights for the New Zealand premiere of an exciting new play, 'The Queen’s Nanny'. Melanie Tait has constructed a superbly written, witty, insightful and poignant play examining the power, sacrifice, hurt and betrayal of a time in history when loyalty was demanded, the barriers of class strictly defined and the right to tell one’s own story was non-existent. Marion Crawford was affectionately known as Crawfie during her 16 years in the position and director Simon Prast steers this personal drama, a commentary on class and the monarchy, into an unmissable night of theatre, with an exceptional cast. Prast is well known in theatre circles as the founder/director of Auckland Theatre Company in 1992 and was also responsible for launching the first new Auckland Arts Festival AK03, in 2003.
Anna Jullienne plays Crawfie, balancing the humour with her eventual heartbreak as her loyalty is questioned. The Queen Mother role is undertaken by Laura Hill, expertly defining the machinations of the House of Windsor, both funny and at times faintly ridiculous. The third cast member is Jack Buchanan, who has the task of portraying seven characters throughout the play led by the narrator steering the action almost as a ringmaster. He also manages to be a butler, an American editor, Crawfie’s fiancée and even a young Elizabeth!
Crawfie was initially hired in 1933 as a governess for the two young daughters of the then Duke and Duchess of York (later King George and the Queen Mother) for what she expected to be a six month summer job. She remained in the job for 16 years, two years after the elder daughter (who went on to become Queen Elizabeth II) married the Duke of Edinburgh in 1947. Crawfie delayed her own wedding and sacrificed her chance of a family of her own to remain with the royal family. In spite of approval given to publish a number of interviews in the American 'Ladies Home Journal' and the UK 'Woman’s Own' magazines, when she published a book, titled 'The Little Princesses', in 1950, she was cut loose by the Royal family and they never spoke to her again, in spite of the content being flattering but candid. One has to wonder what the Queen Mother would have done regarding the publications by her own great grandson in this generation…
Do not miss this exceptional play.
The PumpHouse Theatre Takapuna 14 to 24 May, preview 13 May. Bookings pumphouse.co.nz
Phone 09 489 8360
Director Simon Prast
Depot Te Whare Toi: 30 years of creativity in Devonport
For thirty years, DEPOT has steadily helped shape the creative heartbeat of Tāmaki Makaurau. Nestled in the seaside village of Devonport, just a short ferry ride from Auckland city, DEPOT has grown from a grassroots initiative into an established and inclusive creative hub, where artists are supported, ideas are tested, and pathways into meaningful creative careers are sustained.
As DEPOT marks this 30-year milestone, it’s a chance to recognise the many artists, collaborators, and communities who have been part of that journey, and the role DEPOT continues to play within Aotearoa’s creative landscape, while acknowledging the energy and opportunities that continue to grow from the work happening there.
From the very beginning, DEPOT has been about people. Artists at every stage of their journey have found support there, from those taking early steps to those developing established
practices - musicians such as Kimbra, Bic Runga, Gin Wigmore and Finn Andrews, alongside thousands of visual artists whose work has been shared across DEPOT’s galleries, studios and programmes. That focus on people shapes how DEPOT operates day to day. Access has always been central to what happens there. Creativity is something to be shared, explored and lived, whether through a first workshop, a debut exhibition, or time spent recording and making.
The Creative Careers programme sits at the heart of DEPOT, supporting around 200 people each year to move from the Jobseeker Benefit into sustainable creative employment. With tailored guidance and practical support, participants build pathways into meaningful creative careers, strengthening the wider creative ecosystem. This work reflects a shared belief that creativity is not just a passion, but a viable and rewarding career path, bringing together creative practice and social impact in a way that continues to shape DEPOT.
In recent years, DEPOT has entered a new chapter. Following a major flood at the Clarence St Gallery in 2024, DEPOT took over the former Council Borough building on Victoria Road, transforming it into a multi-purpose creative space within the Devonport community. Today, this reimagined space reflects both resilience and ongoing vision, bringing together a gallery, retail shop, and working studios that support artists while offering visitors a way to connect with and purchase work from across Aotearoa.
At the centre of the 3 Vic Road space is a ceramics studio that invites people to make. Whether shaping clay for the first time or building on existing skills, the focus is on slowing down, connecting, and creating something tangible. Upstairs, artists work within shared studio spaces, forming a community grounded in daily practice, collaboration and experimentation, where ideas are shared, skills are developed, and new work is continually taking shape.
It acts as a meeting point for artists and audiences, professionals and beginners, locals and visitors.
DEPOT continues to expand its programme of term-time classes and workshops, creating opportunities for people of all ages to engage with creativity in supported and structured ways. These programmes reflect an ongoing commitment to accessibility, lifelong learning, and supporting the next generation of creatives.
Across DEPOT’s sites, activity is ongoing. From DEPOT Artspace, DEPOT Lounge and DEPOT Sound to Whare Toi and 3 Vic Road with the DEPOT Shop | Toi Toa, there is a constant flow of exhibitions, workshops, performances and creative activity. In 2025 alone, DEPOT delivered 26 exhibitions, 106 workshops and public events, and supported nearly 250 artists, reflecting a space where culture is actively created and shared.
What makes DEPOT special is its ability to bring people together. It is a meeting point for artists and audiences, professionals and beginners, locals and visitors. Participation ranges from attending exhibitions and workshops to recording music or simply stepping through the doors to see what’s happening.
Director Amy Saunders explains, “DEPOT is about people. It’s about making space for artists to take risks, build skills, connect with others, and create thriving careers. It’s also about building community, because together we are greater than the sum of our parts. We want Devonport to be a vibrant creative destination where creativity is part of everyday life, and a strong calling card for visitors from across Aotearoa and overseas.”
Looking ahead, DEPOT will continue to grow its reach and share more of what happens there, ensuring more people can access these opportunities while remaining focused on supporting artists and creative communities across Aotearoa.
As part of the anniversary programme, DEPOT will host the New Zealand String Quartet on Saturday 2 May, offering an intimate, world-class performance within the Victoria Road space. Visitors will also be able to explore the artist studios upstairs during the interval.
DEPOT is about people. It’s about making space for artists to take risks, build skills, connect with others, and create thriving careers.
Visitors can explore and shop artworks online at www.depot. org.nz or join the DEPOT Collective, receiving member benefits including discounts at the DEPOT Shop | Toi Toa. DEPOT also welcomes new partners, supporters and collaborators.
Thirty years on, DEPOT remains a place where artists develop their practice, ideas take shape, and creativity becomes part of everyday life. It is a space where art is lived and shared, and where people are always welcome. The invitation remains open to the wider community to spend time in the spaces, sign up for a class, learn a new skill or support an artist by buying their work.
Every community needs spaces for creativity. For 30 years, DEPOT has shown how these spaces can support people, practice, and connection, enriching communities over time.
By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction
The North Shore’s best-kept secret?
Shore Junction celebrates five years of youth innovation
Get your theatre fix
It has been five years since Shore Junction first opened its doors in the transformed Takapuna RSA building. In that time, it has become hugely popular with young people, with membership numbers reaching over 6,700. Surprisingly, many local parents still don’t realise this world-class facility is right on their doorstep. As Shore Junction reaches this five-year milestone, the mission remains clearer than ever: to provide a free-to-access ‘innovation space’ for young people aged 13–24. A space where youth feel safe to grow their potential and navigate the world as their authentic selves.
Often, the gap between school and the dinner table is a period of passive downtime hours spent simply consuming content. Shore Junction transforms that time into a high-energy launchpad. Shore Junction has indoor and outdoor hangout areas, an e-sports room, band rooms for rehearsing and songwriting, a recording studio, a dance studio, a creative space with sewing machines, study pods, meeting rooms, a computer suite, and a workshop. The space is run by a team of youth workers who are always around for a yarn or to offer support.
FAQs: What parents need to know
• Is it really free? Yes, membership and use of all equipment is completely free. Shore Junction is a charity that is funded through grants, Local Board funding, and donations.
• Is it safe? Absolutely, we have youth workers on site, all members must check in on arrival, and we have high-definition cameras throughout the facility.
• Who can join? Any young person aged 13-24. They just need to register online at member.shorejunction.nz or in person on their first visit.
• What hours are you open? Tuesday to Saturday from 10am-6pm.
• When can young people be at Shore Junction? Young people are welcome outside school hours. If they do come during the day and are enrolled at school, we will check with either parents or the school to confirm the absence.
If your teen hasn’t discovered Shore Junction yet, now is the perfect time to get them involved. Whether they are a budding 3D printer, a future musician, or just need a safe place to study, Shore Junction provides the tools for their future, at no cost to your family.
To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz
April at The PumpHouse Theatre is doing the absolute most, in the best way! School holiday fun, bold adaptations, a bit of local history, and something quietly heartbreaking to round it all out. Honestly, it’s a bit of a theatrical buffet for everyone to feast on!
First up: School holiday magic with 'Badjelly The Witch' (8-11 April). This one is gloriously silly, a little bit spooky, and packed with the kind of imagination that kids adore and adults suddenly feel very nostalgic about. You can expect big belly laughs and a genuinely lovely whānau theatre experience.
Hot on its heels in the second week of the school holidays is 'The Worm' (14–19 April). When a giant bird nabs his mum, one very determined little worm sets off on a surprisingly epic rescue mission. You won't want to miss this incredible family show packed with live music, oddball charm, and some beautiful magic that makes you go “Wait… why am I emotional about a worm?”
Our next Creative Talk for the year is with Debbie Dunsford (20 April), who will be delving into Milford’s past. Creative Talks are free (yes, free!), with tea and coffee provided.
Then things get deliciously dramatic. Our faves, The Barden Party, are back! If you haven’t had The Barden Patry experience, then trust us, you do not want to miss this. They’re bringing 'Macbeth: Blood and Bluegrass' (22–23 April) to our outdoor amphitheatre: Shakespeare’s dark tale with a live Americana soundtrack and a whole lot of theatrical swagger. It’s high-energy, a bit rowdy, and apparently award-winning for very good reason.
Right after, The Barden Party brings 'Heracles: Of Men & Beasts' (24–25 April) to our main stage. This show blends Greek mythology with 1940s Hollywood and a live-looped score.
And finally, we get beautifully dramatic with 'The Glass Menagerie' (29 April–3 May), an intimate and quietly devastating portrait of a family living with hope, frustration, and unspoken longing.
So yes. April’s stacked. Cancel everything else and book those tickets!
Mauri ora, James Bell
News from The PumpHouse from James Bell
Held up to the light: 'The Glass Menagerie' at The PumpHouse Theatre
Tennessee Williams' 'The Glass Menagerie' has been an audience favourite since it premiered in 1944. This month, it comes to The PumpHouse in a new production from Foolish Wit Theatre.
Tom Wingfield is stuck. He works a job he hates, goes to the movies just to get out of the house, and comes home to his suffocating mother, Amanda, and his fragile sister, Laura. Into this already unsettled household comes a gentleman caller for Laura, invited home by Tom at his mother's insistence.
"It's one of those plays where you can see yourself in every character, even when none of them is particularly likeable," says the play's director, James Bell.
Williams called it a memory play, and James has taken that seriously. With no specific period costumes and imaginary food (a stage note from the original script), the production doesn't try to be realistic. It moves fast, the world slightly dreamlike, leaning into both the memory metaphor and the universality of the Wingfield family's experience. Audiences should expect to laugh, and then feel the ground shift under them before they've noticed it happening.
The four-person cast brings a range of experience to the production. Taku Chiketa, who played Mr Wickham in Foolish Wit's 'Pride and Prejudice', takes on the central role of Tom. Shivaun Statham, who impressed audiences as midwife Elizabeth Luke in Foolish Wit's 2023 production of 'The Welkin', plays the formidable Amanda. Tash Allen takes on the quiet Laura, and Chris Wheeler rounds out the cast as Jim, the gentleman caller. Both Tash and Chris are returning to the stage after a break from acting, bringing a freshness to the material that James says has been a real asset in rehearsal. With a short rehearsal period, the pressure to be off-book early is real, but the cast has thrown themselves into it. They've been helping with props and heading out op-shopping with the costume designer to find pieces that fit the world the design team has created.
"It's a real actor's play," James says. "There are no big moments. It's all in the subtle expressions and reactions, the things that don't get said."
James has been making theatre on the North Shore for over twenty years, directing for Shoreside Theatre, Mairangi Players and the company he co-founded, Foolish Wit Theatre. The company was founded in 2015 with a straightforward ambition: to make great theatre and pay the people who make it, even if it's only a modest amount. The profit-share model extends beyond the cast to the technicians, stage managers and designers who make a production work. In ten years, the company has tackled everything from Arthur Miller and 'The Vagina Monologues' to 'A Christmas Carol', with recent productions including 'The Welkin', 'A Doll's House', 'Little Women' and 'Pride and Prejudice', all at The PumpHouse Theatre.
'The Glass Menagerie' plays at The PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna, from 29 April to 3 May, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Don't leave it too long. Tickets from pumphouse.co.nz
The Glass Menagerie Cast - Taku Chiketa (Tom), Shivaun Statham (Amanda), Chris Wheeler (Jim) and Tash Allen (Laura).
James Bell, director
Compassionate, eco-friendly water cremation and personalised memorial options for your beloved pet. 65 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna
Behind every hospital experience are moments patients rarely see but deeply feel
One of those moments is something as simple and essential as inserting an IV line. Almost every person admitted to hospital will need one. It enables fluids, antibiotics, pain relief and life-saving treatment. Yet for many patients, this can become a distressing experience, involving multiple attempts, delays in care, and unnecessary discomfort. We recently caught up with Dr Richard Webster, an Anaesthetist and Medical Education Fellow at North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals. He shared with us that some patients have to endure five, six or even more attempts before a line is successfully placed. Each attempt is painful. Each delay can mean waiting longer for treatment, sometimes at
This is why Well Foundation is proud to support a new ultrasoundguided cannulation training initiative across North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals. Using ultrasound technology, clinicians can see veins beneath the surface, dramatically improving success rates and reducing the need for repeated attempts. With just a small amount of training, success rates can rise to over 90%. But what makes this initiative truly powerful is its ambition. Rather than relying on a small group of specialists, this programme aims to up-skill nurses and doctors across every ward. It means the right skills and the right equipment are available at the bedside when patients need them most. Fewer delays. Fewer failed attempts. Better care, delivered sooner.
The impact spans the entire hospital. From a child in emergency needing urgent medication, to an elderly patient with fragile veins, to someone undergoing cancer treatment, this approach transforms what can be one of the most challenging parts of their care. And there is something else here that should make us all proud. If fully realised, North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals could be among some of the first health institutions in the world to provide this level of ultrasound-guided care across all wards. A locally driven initiative with the potential to lead internationally. That is the kind of innovation your support makes possible.
Over the coming months, we are seeking to raise $175,000 to bring this vision to life. Because sometimes, the most powerful improvements in healthcare are the ones patients never see, but always feel. You can donate today for this project by scanning the QR code or going to our website.
Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals 09 447 0138, info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz
Ultrasound-guided cannulation training in a clinical setting
By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and Director at Lake Road Electrical
Autumn style in your home
As the days grow shorter and that first cool snap rolls in off the Waitematā, there's something about autumn on the North Shore that makes you want to come home to a space that actually feels good.
And here's the thing, refreshing your home for the new season doesn't have to cost a fortune. This autumn, the trend is all about warmth, mood, and doing more with what you've already got.
Layered lighting is having a major moment right now. Think warmtoned bulbs, dimmers in the living room, and a bedside lamp that actually flatters the space. Moving away from harsh overhead lighting and creating zones of light throughout your home instantly makes rooms feel more considered and more inviting. It's the kind of change that looks expensive but doesn't have to be.
Smart power and energy efficiency are also trending in styleforward homes this season. Upgrading to smart switches or installing a timer on your hot water cylinder are small investments that can noticeably reduce your power bill over the cooler months, with zero compromise on comfort.
Lewis's autumn tip: Before winter hits, it's worth having a quick check of your switchboard and any outdoor lighting. Autumn is the ideal time to catch small electrical issues before the wet weather arrives, and a little preparation now saves a lot of stress later.
Ready to make your home work harder for you this season? Call the team at Lake Road Electrical today, your local North Shore electricians, trusted by families across the Shore. We'd love to help.
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.
The benefits of autumn planting
While traditionally we tend think of spring as the optimum planting time, in most of Auckland we are fortunate enough to miss any winter frosts and so are able to take full advantage of autumn planting!
Planting in autumn when the soil still has residual warmth from the summer, but the weather is cooler and wetter is a great way to get a good head start on the next spring. These gentler weather conditions coupled with the time of year when there is much less pressure on the plant to grow above ground means with the right planting care and fertilising, the plants can focus all their energy into strong root structure establishment. While growth will still generally slow over winter, it means the plants are established and fully primed for growth when spring hits.
For most shrubs and trees the root-ball is the engine of the plant. A strong healthy root-ball means lots of power to push healthy growth above ground when the growing season hits; coupled with healthy soil and the correct nutrients, this leads to strong healthy resilient plants.
This early start also means plants are in a much stronger position once the heat and drought of summer arrive. Stronger, healthy plants are also much better at coping with pests and diseases.
When selecting, always look for strong, healthy and vibrant specimens, ideally from a reputable nursery or garden centre. Make sure your planting hole is twice as large as the root-ball and give the sides a good ‘roughing up’ with the spade so roots can find places to break through. If planting in clay or sand be sure to add lots of lovely organic matter such as sheep pellets and compost mixed into the soil to help improve water flow and soil structure.
I always like to soak my plants in seaweed tonic before planting as it helps to protect against potential transplant shock and give the plants a good overall start. Weekly watering with seaweed tonic will help with plant health and resilience as well.
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
Catch A Coffee
4 Cambridge Terrace. catchacoffeenz@gmail.com
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
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
53/55 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz
Vondel
8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz
Belmont/Hauraki
Belmont Bar
148 Lake Rd. 09 445 3765. nzbelmontbar@gmail.com
Caffé Santini
63c Lake Rd, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com
Daily Bread
43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz
Hauraki Social Club
Level 1, 335 Lake Rd, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz
XO Takapuna
333 Lake Rd, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com
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.
The Northcote Tavern has been part of Auckland’s North Shore since the 1800s. As you will discover in our history section, there has been a pub on the Northcote Point site since the 1850s. 160 years on ‘The Tav’ is still a place for people to have a drink and hang out with friends and enjoy themselves – as it has always been. But it is now so much more – sport, food, family and community are the key ingredients.
Centrally located right by Auckland’s iconic Harbour Bridge 37 Queen Street, Northcote Point 09 480 7707 hello@northcotetavern.co.nz
DEVONPORT
DEVONPORT
Regatta Bar & Eatery
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta
Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina
Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna
The Curry Master 18 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 7211. thecurrymaster.co.nz/birkenhead
The Good Home 83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz
East Coast Bays & Long Bay
21 Days Bar & Brasserie 37 Clyde Rd. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz
El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery 1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz
Founded on friendship with offerings that acknowledge our fierce independence and appreciation of artisans. Expect fresh and local craft beer, real ale and cider flowing from 15 taps, a wine list covering near and distant regions synonymous with varietal excellence, an extensive gin list enhanced with botanics fresh from our on-site gardens, bespoke cocktails to sip into the evening, and a modern seasonal menu designed to share, focusing on showcasing sustainable and locally sourced produce. Supreme Winner – NZ Gastropub Awards 2024 hello@fantailandturtle.co.nz fantailandturtle.co.nz instagram fantailandturtle
Gather is a new eatery that celebrates simplicity done well: seasonal ingredients, authentic flavours, and meals to share, savour and remember. Open for breakfast and lunch, Gather offers a warm, comfortable setting where everyone is welcome, whether solo, meeting friends, or gathering with family. Expect dishes with a fresh twist, served in a relaxed, elegant space designed to foster conversation and connection. Food that’s good for the soul, in a space that feels like your own. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat/Sun 8am-3pm. 09 212 4466 gathereatery.co.nz bookings@gathereatery.co.nz
Long Bay Surf Club 4/56 Bounty Rd. 09 473 0908. longbaysurfclub.co.nz
Modern Asian cuisine takes you on a journey through the vibrant flavours of the Philippines, blending traditional recipes with innovative techniques. Our award-winning menu features Asian- and Spanish-inspired tapas, signature dishes, carefully curated wines and cocktails, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Recognised in Metro Top 50 and New Zealand’s 100 Best Restaurants by Cuisine, Nanam is proud to be a neighbourhood favourite. Don’t miss our summer lunch special for just $35! 178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 488 9976, nanam.co.nz nanam.reservation@gmail.com
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.
Discover the Tok Tok experience in Takapuna. Unwind, indulge and savour the vibrant flavours of modern Asian fusion at Tok Tok Takapuna. From fresh, bold dishes to creative cocktails, every bite is a celebration, with vegetarian, vegan and GF options available. Perfect for date nights, group gatherings and those unforgettable moments. Book your table today and taste the extraordinary!
Tokyo Bay is situated seaside, Takapuna Beach. You can dine and watch the cruise liners sail out after a day in Auckland. Open seven days a week with a casual lunch menu featuring light bites to a range of bento box-styled selections. Then from 5pm a more extensive evening menu is available, featuring modern Japanese cuisine. Bookings essential.
The Travellers’ Choice Awards 'Best of the Best Restaurants for 2024' have been announced, with Tokyo Bay Takapuna in the top ten for the fourth year running. Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. tokyobay.co.nz
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.
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
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.
If you've been in lately, you’ve probably seen our cabinet full of treats. Most of what you see is handmade here in our kitchen, using alternatives to refined sugars. We love creating options that feel like an indulgence but still align with your wellness goals, like our raw slices or keto-friendly treats. It’s nice to have something sweet that doesn’t come with the usual sugar crash. Pair with your morning coffee and take a moment for yourself!
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
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre. Perfect for private parties, no venue hire!
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV $85 per bottle between 5-7pm daily
Yellow Hour! Bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night!
Winner Lewisham Awards 2024 Outstanding Local Establishment North
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
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
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.
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
Cousin Scott's
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."
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
LONGBAY
Long Bay Surf Club
Just minutes from Auckland’s stunning Long Bay Beach, Long Bay Surf Club is the place to be all year round. Drop in for relaxed lunches, after-work drinks, or an easy catch-up with friends any day of the week. Join us for Sundowner Sessions from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays and enjoy tap beers, house wines, and club cocktails at great prices. With all-day dining, drinks to suit every season, and the doors open seven days a week, there’s always a good reason to settle in at Long Bay Surf Club. Open Mon-Sun 11am-late. 09 473 0908 4/56 Bounty Road, Long Bay info@longbaysurfclub.co.nz longbaysurfclub.co.nz instagram facebook: @longbaysurfclub
MURRAY'SBAY
Waygu short rib and market fish
TAKAPUNA
TAKAPUNA
Mystics Goal Competition
HOW MANY CAN YOU SCORE IN 30 SECONDS?
Shore City Centre Court | 1pm | 10 April 2026
WIN EPIC PRIZES FROM:
Plus plenty of spot prizes up for grabs!
Scan the QR code to register your interest
What's happening in Takapuna this April
Looking for some free, family fun to keep the kids entertained this month?
Takapuna has you covered. There are so many things to do in Takapuna that are perfect for family and school holiday adventures. Check out our handy list of ideas below, or check out the activities page on our website: ilovetakapuna.co.nz for some other fun things to do!
Why not make a day of it? Treat the kids to lunch at a fantastic whānau-friendly spot like Burger Burger, Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina, My Fried Chicken, JAM Café or Street Organics.
Or treat them to a sweet, refreshing, frozen treat from KiwiYo, JoyLato, Duck Island, or Mövenpick after a great time running around the Takapuna Beach playground!
If the weather’s nice, why not pack a picnic or grab some takeaways from one of the epic cafés, and find a sunny spot on Takapuna Beach reserve and build some sandcastles? Or relax on the grassy shores of Lake Pupuke and explore around The PumpHouse.
If you’re after a spot of shopping, you’ll also find lots of toys and things to keep the kids entertained from places like Farmers, Smiggle, ChockaBucket, Retrospace, Paper Plus, Kids N More and Whitcoulls!
If you still need more inspiration, check out all the fun events and things happening in Takapuna this month:
Takapuna Activity Trail
We’re running our famous Easter Activity Trail all school holidays long! How to play:
1. Register and pick up your map from Shore City (Level 2, Customer Service desk, at the top of the escalator).
2. Follow the map around Takapuna and complete the activities at each location to receive a stamp.
3. Make your way back to the Shore City Customer Service desk to receive your Easter treat!
The activity trail will be running between 10am3pm every day of the school holidays (29 March–19 April).
You can complete the map at any time over the school holidays, so you can start it one day and finish it another.
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
Discover Shore City
Everything you need under one roof. Get your steps in while you check out the major retailers, fashion finds and toy stores. Thirsty? Take some time for a long, unhurried coffee break at one of many excellent cafés while you send the kids to find their treat of choice at the food court.
Live entertainment at the Bruce Mason Centre
10-11 April: Dazzlehands by RNZB Dazzlehands, the awardwinning story of the persuasive pig who won’t take no for an answer, by Wellington author Sacha Cotter and illustrator Josh Morgan, is a hot favourite with young audiences, on the mat at pre-school and as a much-requested bedtime story. Now, RNZB Principal Joshua Guillemot-Rodgerson and education and community engagement manager Lauren Byrne are thrilled to have turned Dazzlehands into a moving and grooving ballet bash for six performers plus narration, with enchanting original music by William Phillipson and laugh-out-loud character costumes by Victoria Gridley.
Enjoy a staycation at The Spencer Hotel!
Sometimes the best holidays don’t need a boarding pass. Come and stay at The Spencer Hotel, right in the heart of Takapuna. It's close to the beach, great shopping, the movies, and some of the Shore’s best cafés and eateries. While you’re there, soak and warm up in the outdoor spa pool, keep your workouts on track in the gym, or challenge the kids to a game of tennis. The rooms are spacious and set up for families to relax in comfort. Parking is available on-site (subject to availability), and everything you need is just a short walk away. There are a range of ways to save on your stay at The Spencer Hotel, so check out the special offers page on their website. If you’re after a relaxed school holiday escape that’s close to home but feels like a proper break, they’d love to have you.
Live shows at The PumpHouse Theatre
9-11 April: Badjelly the Witch
Badjelly the Witch bursts delightfully onto the stage in this hilarious, slightly spooky, and wildly silly whānau theatre adventure. When Tim and Rose set off to rescue their
GOLD SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…
missing cow, Lucy, they wander deep into an enchanted forest and straight into the clutches of the baddest witch of all. Adapted for stage by Alannah O’Sullivan from Spike Milligan’s beloved classic, this fast-paced production is packed with outrageous characters, big laughs, and imaginative storytelling that children love and parents and grandparents will fondly remember. Perfect for the school holidays, this is quality live theatre designed to spark joy, creativity and shared family experiences. StageAntics presents the story with energy, heart, and a strong commitment to accessible, high-quality theatre for young audiences in Aotearoa. Bring the whānau, bring a school or holiday group, and step into the enchanted forest for an adventure full of magic, mischief, and mayhem you’ll be talking about long after the curtain falls.
14-19 April: The Worm
When a giant bird pokes its beak through the ceiling and swoops away with his mum, a determined little worm sets off on a heroic adventure to save her! This surprising tale from acclaimed company Nightsong is funny, exciting, and delightfully offbeat, featuring live music by Carnivorous Plant Society’s Finn Scholes. Can one tiny worm wriggle his way past dastardly critters, tricky puzzles, and wild encounters to save his mum?
the Coffee Club that includes a coffee, biscuit and ticket for just $15 between 10am–5pm, Monday-Thursday.
Thrillzone | Escape Quest
Check out the epic school holiday programme on offer, or just head in to 28 Hurstmere Rd for some Tactical Laser Tag, Escape Games, VR experiences and Race Car Simulator fun for all ages!
Takapuna Library April School Holiday Programme – EcoFest
Join us for an eco adventure at Takapuna Library this school holidays! We’ve got a whole line-up of activities perfect for crafty kids and curious minds, from rainbow clay art to popcorn and movies to DIY workshops. Come along, make something amazing, and learn new skills with us! Check out the event schedule or visit the Takapuna Library Facebook page for all our events and workshop details!
Become a Squash Star at North Shore Squash Club
7–17 April, North Shore Squash Club
All-weather fun at Takapuna Beachside Cinema
Check out the Sunday Markets in the town square
Get the kids and family up and out for a little market browsing on Sundays. The fantastic Takapuna Sunday Market is on every Sunday from 8am–1pm in the Waiwharariki Anzac Square (behind the bus stop on Lake Rd). Enjoy a range of performances while you browse through the different goods for sale, while njoying a beverage from your favourite café. Or grab a little breakfast at one of the nearby spots, or come down a little later and grab a snack for lunch, then head to the beach for an afternoon of sun, sand and playground fun!
Treat the family to some delicious lunch or dinner out
Itching to get the family out of the house? Have someone else do the dishes, treat yourself (and them!) and take them out to one of Takapuna’s buzzing, family-friendly, kid-friendly and tasty-licious dining establishments. We’ve got cafés, restaurants, takeaways and desserts for everyone in your whānau. Check our website for all our suggestions and more.
Come visit the cinema during the school holidays for the latest family movies, classic cinema combos and great entertainment that won't be ruined by the weather. Plan for some fun, book now, and visit us at the big blue building in the heart of Takapuna. Parents – check out the specials and combo deals the cinema is running, like
If you joined us over the summer, you already know how much fun our Squash Stars Holiday Programme is – loads of energy, heaps of friends, and so much more than just squash! Squash for all levels, arts and crafts, games and activities. Whether your child is returning or trying it out for the first time, we’d love to have them with us these holidays. Come along for active days, new skills and plenty of fun! More info and booking, contact Lisa: admin@northshoresquash.co.nz Let’s make these holidays another great one!
Enjoy the sunshine and spend an afternoon at the incredible Takapuna Beach playground with a refreshing sweet treat
Just visiting town? Long-time admirer, firsttime player? Looking after someone else’s kids and need something awesome to burn off some energy? If you haven’t been here yet, you should remedy that asap! First thing you’ll notice is the massive tower. Kids (and adults, let’s face it) have an in-built need to be at the top of towers. Release them, and they’ll be up the ladders in a flash, and popping out of the three slides (five if you count the wee ones on the bottom level). The best way to reach the top is to climb up the ropes on the neighbouring A-frame and cross through the tunnel made of netting – it’s hard to beat for beach views!
PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…
DEPOT SHOP | TOI TOA
Our Maker of the Month is Sally Tagg, a multidisciplinary artist who works across sculpture, ceramics and photography. Tagg explores ceramic forms combining glass and clay alongside large-scale photographic light-box works.
3 Victoria Road, Devonport toitoa@depot.org.nz, depot.org.nz 10am-4pm, Tues-Sun
BEGGS
Comfort, warmth and style in the right fit. European brands designed exclusively for men, XL - 8XL. New autumn and winter collection in-store and online now. Style without limits. Fast delivery and click and collect. Fitting service, easy returns. 121 Wairau Road, North Shore 09 377 4190, beggs.co.nz
FLORIENNE
Custom, creative, bespoke and just for you is what we love to do at Florienne. We are your on the shore local florist and plant shop in the heart Takapuna. 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz
STRAND WINE BAR
Looking for something special this month? Oraterra Chardonnay is well worth your attention. The second vintage from acclaimed winemaker Wilco Lam (formerly of Dry River), it shows the pedigree and precision you’d expect. Balanced citrus and stone fruit with subtle oak influences and a refined finish. A serious yet approachable Chardonnay in a beautifully presented bottle. Strand Wine Bar, open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays.
4 The Strand, Takapuna, 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz
LIQUORLAND TAKAPUNA
Special offer for Channel Mag readers! Misty Cove Sauvignon Blanc - $18.99, or a case of six for $100 (RRP $24.99 each). Misty Cove’s Landmark Sauvignon Blanc is deeply influenced by old-world winemaking techniques. Lovingly handcrafted in small batch quantities, it was crafted to reflect the attributes and characteristics of the Fareham Lane vineyard from which it originated. 182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770
takapuna@liquorland.co.nz liquorland.co.nz
YARNTONS
Thomas Cook Wynyard boots. Comfortable, colourful gumboots at only $79.95. They come in eight colours.
A beautifully presented body cleansing bar that brings a touch of everyday luxury to the bath or shower. This triple-milled bar gently cleanses while leaving skin soft and refreshed. Enriched with shea butter and jojoba oil for a creamy, non-drying lather, and delicately scented with white florals and French pear. Designed with gifting in mind, this flower gift box requires no wrapping and makes a lovely choice for birthdays, thank-yous, or moments of simple indulgence.
Bold and understated, familiar but never predictable. Wally brings together 60+ global and local labels, including Nude Lucy, Mossman, Checks Downtown, Summi Summi, Stolen Girlfriends Club, Lioness, Gramicci, Butter Goods, Rollas and Abrand. Curated for the way you actually live. New arrivals daily, in-store and online. 53 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna wally.co.nz instagram: @wally.co.nz
LAZYPAWS PET STORE
We offer small, personalised dog daycare services. To ensure highquality care, we limit our daycare to a maximum of four dogs per day. Dogs will enjoy a variety of treats, enrichment activities, and two daily walks. Daycare pricing ranges from $20 to $60. Spend $200 in-store and receive one free day of daycare. Open Mon-Sun, 10am-7pm, 027 860 1106 getintouch@lazypaws.co.nz, lazypaws.co.nz
NOVO SHOES –GLENFIELD MALL
Autumn style staple. Rich espresso tones are having a moment this season, and the Caritas ballet flats make the trend effortlessly wearable. Sleek, elegant and easy to style, this pointed-toe silhouette brings a polished finish to everyday dressing and is the perfect update for autumn. Find it at Novo, Glenfield Mall 09 444 3526
WALLACE COTTON
Discover a new collection of bed linen, homeware, sleep and loungewear thoughtfully designed to make every day more beautiful. Crafted from natural and sustainable fabrics and produced in small, considered batches. Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see and shop new collections in person. .
Polynucleotides (PNs) are not sperm, and this is not a facial. Originally developed for treating traumatic wounds, scars, and burns, PNs are pure DNA fragments derived from salmon or trout, known for regenerative properties. In Aesthetics, restore function, collagen, inflammation, circulation, and strengthen barriers for healthier, resilient, radiant skin overall. 46D Lake Road Northcote 027 867 8077 facebook instagram
COSI FAN TUTTE
Founded in 1986, Eribé knitwear comes from Melrose in the Scottish Borders. Putting a contemporary spin on traditional Fairisle knitting techniques, and a love for natural lambswool fibres to keep you truly warm and cosy with the change of season. 73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport
#Gramworthy
Amy Johnston is the sales and event coordinator at Eventfinda Stadium. She says she’s typically the main person handling an event from enquiry to doors closing at the end of the event. Eventfinda Stadium is Auckland's original indoor venue; Amy says it's a super versatile venue that can adapt to any type of event, going from a rock concert one night to a community basketball tournament the next day. It hosts a wide mix of events including community sports tournaments, expos, international sports games, awards dinners, cultural concerts and even smaller-scale meetings and conferences. Amy says that the great thing about her role is that no two days are the same. She’s always been the organiser in her friend group so events felt like a natural fit, and after coming home from the Walt Disney World Cultural Exchange Program in 2020, she decided to study event management.
Channel Magazine: Is Instagram a source of inspiration for Eventfinda Stadium? Who do you recommend following and why?
Amy Johnston: I like using Instagram to check out what other people in the industry are doing and take a lot of inspiration from them. @thegrounds for bold and creative venue/event styling and @lucyseventhire does some pretty cool things and has a great personal touch to posts.
Which other local businesses do social media well?
@onelovelydaystyling for beautiful, cohesive event setups and @motiveeventsnz for strong largescale event production and execution.
Our round up of posts from Glenfield businesses on IG that we’ve double tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Amy from @eventfindastadium One of our favs in the area, this place does great coffee,
What’s happening at Eventfinda Stadium that you want locals to know about?
We have the Auckland Tuatara season starting on 11 April and the first Mystics home-awayfrom-home game on 26 April. There's always a lot happening at the stadium, people can check out our website for more upcoming events. We also have great meeting and conference spaces available for hire with optional catering or use of our private bar which is perfect for post-event drinks and networking. A really good option for businesses wanting something a bit different from a standard meeting space.
We can’t go past an ice cream whatever the weather and this chocolate cookies and cream looks incredible. New Zealand made and family owned goodness. @muchmoreicecream
Meet Wally: Takapuna's new favourite store
There is a particular kind of shop that is hard to define but is instantly recognisable when you walk into it. The kind where the edit feels considered rather than commercial, where you discover something you did not know you needed alongside a brand you have been quietly obsessed with for years. That shop is now on Hurstmere Road.
The result is a 280sqm store that holds more than 60 brands of women's and men's fashion, accessories, beauty, fragrance and homewares. The curation sits squarely in the mid-market sweet spot: elevated enough to feel special, accessible enough to shop regularly. You will find Stolen Girlfriends Club alongside Mossman, Nude Lucy next to Rollas, and Checks Downtown sitting beside Gramicci, Butter Goods and Lioness. Curated for the way you actually live.
Wally opened its doors in October 2025, and in a short time has become one of the most talked-about new retail spaces on the Shore. Co-founders
Staci Scott and Dave Malcolm bring more than 28 years of combined experience in retail and e-commerce to the venture, and it shows. Every decision, from the fixtures thoughtfully repurposed from the Smith and Caughey's closure to the carefully negotiated brand mix, reflects a deep understanding of what a great independent store should feel and function like.
"We wanted to build something that felt warm and welcoming, but never predictable," says Staci. "A space that feels as good to be in as the pieces we stock."
As autumn arrives, the store has hit its stride. New season's stock is
landing daily, and the shift in palette and weight that comes with cooler months suits Wally's aesthetic particularly well. Think considered layering pieces, rich textures, and the kind of transitional wardrobe essentials that earn their keep from March through to July.
For those who cannot make it into Takapuna, the full range is available at wally.co.nz, with free delivery on New Zealand orders over $80. New arrivals drop online alongside instore, so the website is worth checking regularly.
Staci and Dave have made no secret of their ambitions. Wally is designed to grow. But for now, the focus is simple: giving the North Shore a store it is genuinely proud of.
Dave Malcolm and Staci Scott
Your home for all things mortgages:
Strategic lending for the life you’re building
Introducing Jess Barlow - Director and Mortgage Adviser, The Mortgage Supply Co, Browns Bay
On Auckland’s North Shore, property ownership isn’t just about securing an address; it’s about anchoring your family, building long-term wealth, and creating a legacy in a community you love. And when your lending needs go beyond the basics – multiple properties, business ownership, complex structures, strategic investing – you need more than a rate. You need a strategy.
Meet Jess Barlow: North Shore local, business owner, mum, paddleboard enthusiast, and the driving force behind the boutique, award-winning team at The Mortgage Supply Co, Browns Bay. After returning to the Shore four years ago, Jess has been warmly embraced by the community, and she’s made it her mission to bring a higher level of clarity, structure, and strategy to North Shore homeowners and investors.
Strategic lending for high-performing clients
With more than 14 years' experience, Jess has seen the clear difference between transactional lending and truly strategic lending, and she’s built her practice around that distinction. Her team specialises in working with established professionals, business owners, and growth-minded families who want lending that supports their long-term vision. Her clients aren’t simply buying property; they’re:
• expanding investment portfolios,
• structuring lending across trusts and multiple entities,
• managing cash flow for business and home,
• refinancing to unlock growth,
• protecting wealth while building more. This level of lending requires nuance, experience and foresight, and that’s where Jess's expertise shines.
Boutique service, award-winning expertise
As an award-winning adviser based in Browns Bay, Jess has intentionally built a boutique, female-led team known for empathy, thoughtful guidance and sharp strategic structure. While large firms can feel impersonal or transactional, Jess’s team operates differently: direct access, responsive communication, and custom-tailored lending structures built around your goals, not a bank’s template. Their North Shore roots run deep, and they understand the rhythms of this community; the lifestyle, expectations, aspirations and the property landscape.
Relationships first, transactions second
For Jess, the relationship doesn’t end when a loan is approved. It’s often just the beginning. Because life changes. The market changes. Your financial goals evolve. Her team walks alongside clients for every stage, from first home to upsizing to investment growth, and eventually, helps clients support the next generation into property. Annual structure reviews, portfolio stress-testing, and forward-focused planning ensure that your lending keeps pace with your aspirations.
The true value of smart lending advice
In higher-value or complex lending, even a small structural decision can dramatically impact long-term financial outcomes. A well-designed lending strategy can:
• improve financial flexibility,
• reduce long-term interest exposure,
• protect cashflow,
• support tax-efficient structures (in collaboration with your accountant),
• unlock or preserve borrowing capacity for future opportunities. Jess’s expertise lies in crafting lending frameworks that support the life – and legacy – you’re intentionally building.
A team that cares – deeply
Behind every recommendation is a team that leads with warmth, clarity and genuine care, balanced with strong negotiation skills and deep banking relationships. They celebrate client wins, support through challenges, and show up consistently, because your success is their success. For North Shore families and professionals seeking thoughtful, strategic mortgage advice, Jess and her team invite you to experience lending done differently.
Starting in May, Jess joins Channel Mag with a monthly column packed with expert advice. If you have questions, get in touch, and Jess will help with informed, expert guidance.
The Mortgage Supply Co, Browns Bay – your home for all things mortgage and the possibilities they unlock.
Jess Barlow, Director L2 15 Anzac Road, Browns Bay 021 5377 01 jessica@mortgagesupply.co.nz jessbarlow.mortgagesupply.co.nz
Jess Barlow
Financial insights and advice on how to handle your money in today's fiscal climate
This month, our key feature focus is on 'Money matters: Financial insights and advice on how to handle your money in today's fiscal climate'. Channel Mag's Liz Cannon speaks to four local experts based here on the North Shore. They share their views and advice on how to strengthen your financial position, build monetary confidence and be money-savvy as we move into the new fiscal year ahead.
KATIE WESNEY, ENABLE ME
Katie Wesney is the national coaching lead at enable.me – where New Zealanders go to get serious about their financial future – with 25-plus years spanning Big Four accounting, London investment banking, and her own business, chartered accountant, financial adviser, active property investor and regular Stuff columnist. enable.me
DAVID GREEN, ADVICEHQ
Based on Hurstmere Road in Takapuna, David Green (BBus, CA) is an independent mortgage adviser helping North Shore residents secure their futures. Formerly a chartered accountant, David combines expertise with a passion for our local community. His sompany, adviceHQ, provides independent advice on mortgages, insurance, KiwiSaver, business and commercial lending. Whether you’re buying in Milford or scaling a business in Albany, David’s "finance first" approach ensures you understand your numbers to unlock your best options. advicehq.co.nz
JESS BARLOW, THE MORTGAGE SUPPLY CO
As a mortgage adviser for 14 years and part of the finance industry for more than 25 years, lending is truly Jess's passion. Based in Browns Bay, she's a multi-award-
winning adviser supported by a highly experienced team. Together, they focus on delivering thoughtful, strategic advice and achieving exceptional outcomes for their clients. Their approach goes beyond simply arranging lending – it's about helping people structure their loans well, stay aligned with long-term financial goals, and feel confident in the decisions made along the way.
jessbarlow.mortgagesupply.co.nz
LIAM BRATTON, NAKED FINANCE
Naked Finance is an Auckland-based, fullservice financial advisory firm focused on delivering clear, practical, and client-first advice across every stage of the financial journey. The team assists clients with home loans, business finance, insurance solutions (life, health, income protection), KiwiSaver and investment planning, debt consolidation, and cash flow structuring, along with UK pension transfers/advice. Their approach is transparent, jargonfree, and tailored, helping clients make confident decisions and build long-term wealth. By combining lending, insurance, and investment expertise under one roof, Naked Finance provides a seamless, holistic service that cuts through complexity and genuinely puts clients first every single day. nakedfinance.nz
Channel Mag: What are the most common financial concerns you’re hearing from clients, and how are you addressing them?
Katie Wesney: The big three right now are mortgage pressure, the rising cost of simply living a normal life, and a creeping anxiety that retirement is closer than they feel ready for. What I find is that behind each of those concerns is often the same thing: people know what they should be doing (mostly), but life keeps getting in the way of doing it. Our job is helping them close that gap between knowing and doing – with a plan that’s realistic, not just aspirational.
David Green: The most common theme is navigating the ups and downs of the property market. Our mantra is always 'finance first'. Before you look at buying or selling, you must understand your numbers to see what options are actually on the table. We address this with a quick, 10-minute phone call to assess each client's unique circumstances.
Jess Barlow: Most clients are currently concerned with interest rates and getting the best deal. Clients are expressing fatigue with having to count pennies, and want a loan structure that still builds equity while allowing room for living. A large part of our business currently is restructuring lending
David Green, adviceHQ
Katie Wesney, Enable Me
to realign loan structures. Splitting lending into different rate terms is hugely popular right now due to uncertainty and volatility overseas.
Liam Bratton: The biggest concerns we’re hearing are cost-of-living pressure, mortgage rates, and general market uncertainty. Our role is helping clients focus on what they can control: cashflow, debt structure, and long-term investment strategy. When people have a clear plan rather than reacting to headlines, their financial confidence improves quickly.
With ongoing fluctuations in interest rates and living costs, what are the biggest financial planning opportunities people might be overlooking right now?
Katie Wesney: The Reserve Bank has signalled that interest rates could lift again from here, which means now is exactly the wrong time to sleepwalk into simply re-fixing at whatever your bank offers. Use this moment to make sure your mortgage structure is working for you: the right split between fixed and floating, the right term, and critically, a plan to pay it off, not just service it. KiwiSaver is another opportunity worth revisiting: with contribution rates rising to 3.5% from April, it’s worth checking your fund type still matches your timeline. The people who’ll look back on 2026 as a turning point are the ones who used the uncertainty as a prompt to get their financial house in order.
David Green: The biggest opportunity is harnessing the 'eighth wonder of the world': compounding interest. When interest rates drop, one of the most effective tricks is to keep your repayments at the previous, higher level; this increases your principal repayments and can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
Jess Barlow: Don't merely refix with your bank just because it's the easy option. The point when your loan comes up for refixing is when you should be proactively reassessing budgets and progress. It also allows you to adjust loan terms if desired, and split the lending into different rate terms.
Liam Bratton: Periods of uncertainty often create the best planning opportunities. We’re seeing chances to restructure mortgages, review KiwiSaver and investment strategies, and improve cashflow efficiency. The people who benefit most are those who act proactively rather than waiting for everything to feel 'certain' again.
Most households are carrying at least one or two expenses on autopilot that no longer serve them.
For North Shore households feeling financial pressure, what are the first practical steps you recommend to regain control and confidence in their money?
Katie Wesney: Start with a clear-eyed look at where your money is going – not where you think it’s going. Most households are carrying at least one or two expenses on autopilot that no longer serve them. From there, prioritise ruthlessly: high-interest debt first, then building even a small buffer, then making sure your KiwiSaver is working as hard as you are. Small, consistent moves
compound faster than people expect – and feeling in control of your money is itself a kind of wealth.
David Green: Seek advice early. The sooner you ask for help, the more options you have. Our team is happy to help, while local services like the Citizens Advice Bureau or North Shore Budget Service are excellent resources. Be wary of short-term fixes like mortgage holidays, which can impact your credit rating; always ask how a temporary solution affects your long-term goals.
Jess Barlow: Review your accounts. Look back on three months of bank statements and see what subscriptions and expenses are coming out. Too often, clients are surprised at outgoings, having thought they’d deleted certain insurances or subscriptions. It's also way too easy to spend via PayWave nowadays, so separating suffixes for spending, bills, and loan payments is always a great way to budget.
Liam Bratton: Start with clarity –understand exactly where your money is going each month. From there, review your mortgage structure and focus on rebuilding a financial buffer where possible. Even small changes to spending or debt structure can significantly reduce financial stress.
How should local families and business owners be thinking about investment strategy in the current market: more defensive, more diversified, or something else?
Katie Wesney: Neither purely defensive nor recklessly growth-focused; what the current climate calls for is intentional diversification with a clear time horizon in mind. If you won’t need the money for tenplus years, volatility is noise, not a crisis. For business owners, especially, I’d be looking
Liam Bratton, Naked Finance
Jess Barlow, The Mortgage Supply Co
at whether the business itself is properly protected and whether there’s a personal investment strategy running alongside it – because relying on the business as your retirement plan is a concentrated risk most people underestimate.
David Green: We encourage 'time in the market, not timing the market'. For business owners specifically, it is vital to diversify your banking relationships; having more than one option ensures that if one bank gets 'tough' during lean times, your business remains resilient.
Liam Bratton: Rather than becoming overly defensive, the focus should be on diversification and long-term discipline. Many New Zealand investors are heavily exposed to property, so broadening investments across different asset classes can improve resilience. The key is building a portfolio designed to perform across different market cycles.
Consistency is key, whether it's optimising your mortgage structure or increasing your KiwiSaver contribution from 3% to 6%.
What trends are you seeing in property, mortgage behaviour, or debt management this year, and how should people respond?
Katie Wesney: More people are coming to the table earlier in their mortgage journey, wanting to understand strategy, not just rate, which is genuinely encouraging. And for those wondering whether now is the right time to buy, a flat market can be an opportunity if you go in with your eyes open. When prices aren’t racing away from you, there’s more room to buy well, negotiate, and let leverage work in your favour as part of a broader financial plan – rather than simply riding a rising tide and hoping for the best. The keyword is part: property works hardest when it sits alongside other investments, not instead of them.
David Green: Now is a fantastic time for Shore residents to review their position. With interest rates below long-term averages and favourable bank servicing tests, a strategic restructure or refinance now can set you up well for the next interest rate cycle.
Jess Barlow: For first home buyers, we’re seeing a lot more parental support with deposits, with clients really putting in time
to understand different options. Guarantors are no longer quite so desirable, and options like Deed of Debt, Gifting or Loans are much more common.
Liam Bratton: We’re seeing more borrowers choosing shorter mortgage terms to maintain flexibility while rates remain uncertain. There’s also a noticeable shift toward strengthening balance sheets and reducing debt rather than aggressively leveraging. Property is still important in New Zealand, but increasingly it needs to sit within a broader financial strategy.
What financial habits best set people up for long-term resilience in a period of economic uncertainty?
Katie Wesney: Spend less than you earn, invest the difference, and review it all regularly; it’s unglamorous advice, but it’s the foundation everything else is built on. Beyond that, I’d add: protect what matters (the right insurance is worth every dollar), talk about money openly in your household, and don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. The people I see build real financial resilience aren’t the ones with the most sophisticated strategies –they’re the ones who show up consistently.
David Green: Consistency is key, whether it's optimising your mortgage structure or increasing your KiwiSaver contribution from 3% to 6%. Beware of 'lifestyle creep'. As your income or business profits grow, resist the urge to simply spend more and instead direct that surplus toward your future.
Jess Barlow: Using different suffixes for budgeting; staying away from short-term debts (buy now/pay later, credit cards, personal loans, etc); having savings set as an automatic payment; increasing repayments over and above the minimum repayment amounts.
Liam Bratton: Consistency is one of the most powerful financial habits: regularly investing (dollar cost averaging), maintaining a cash buffer, and reviewing your financial plan. Avoiding lifestyle inflation as income grows also makes a significant difference over time. Resilience tends to come from steady habits rather than one big financial decision.
For those approaching major life milestones, what key advice would you give in 2026?
Katie Wesney: Get advice before you make the big decision, not after. Whether you’re buying your first home, investing, planning for retirement, or stepping into business ownership, the cost of good financial counsel at the decision point is almost always far less than the cost of correcting a poorly structured move later. And whichever milestone you’re approaching, make sure your security is in place first – have a buffer and protection; income, health, and life insurance are the
scaffolding that holds everything else up when life doesn’t go to plan.
David Green: Know your numbers. We recently helped a client who felt stuck with limited options from their own bank by finding two alternative solutions that opened up their entire future. Also, remember that a 'financial/property coach' is not the same as a qualified financial planner.
Jess Barlow: Speak to a professional before the event. Often, finances need preparation, so speaking to an adviser early means you have time to make any necessary adjustments or changes to finances ahead of the event.
Liam Bratton: Major financial milestones shouldn’t be approached in isolation. Whether buying a first home, preparing for retirement, or starting a business, the key is making sure the decision fits into a broader long-term financial plan. Getting advice early can significantly improve both the financial outcome and peace of mind.
What’s one piece of financial advice you wish every New Zealander understood earlier, and why?
Katie Wesney: Don’t wait for the perfect time, because it doesn’t exist. The sooner you start, the easier it gets – time does the heavy lifting that willpower alone never can. But here’s the equally important flip side: it’s never too late. Where you’ve been is not a predictor of where you can get to with a good strategy behind you. Have a plan, execute it, tweak it as life changes, and get on with living your best life. Money is a means, not the destination.
David Green: Independent financial advice is the key to personal success. If you only deal with one provider, you will only ever have one option; independence gives you the power of choice.
Jess Barlow: The number of times I hear clients say they got a credit card or car loan to 'build a credit file' breaks my heart! It’s the new age-old wives' tale! Credit reporting is so sophisticated now that everyone already has a credit file by the time they apply for a mortgage. Getting debt doesn’t build a credit file; it tells lenders that you couldn’t save for what it was you were buying. And too often, financial literacy in younger New Zealanders means that a credit card isn’t managed well and can lead to damaging an individual's credit file. The best advice? If you want it, save for it and then buy it.
Liam Bratton: Time is far more powerful than timing. The earlier people start investing and planning, the more they benefit from compounding over decades. Building wealth is usually a slow and deliberate process, not something that happens overnight.
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.
Financial wellbeing in the community
Dr
Abid Al-Atafi,
mentor director and senior financial mentor at North Shore Budget Service explains
North Shore Budget Service empowers people to take control of their finances using a strength-based, whānau-centric approach. We see financial management as a journey of change, involving clients in understanding their challenges and actively participating in solutions. Our service has been supporting the community for 34 years, and during that time, we have helped thousands of people navigate financial challenges. Our dedicated team of 15 staff works together to support the community with practical financial guidance and care.
Our free, confidential services include budgeting advice, financial mentoring, advocacy and negotiation with creditors, and support to manage debt and bills, with an emphasis on education and practical solutions. For clients who are unable to manage their finances independently, our Total Money Management programme ensures essential expenses – like rent, power, and food – are paid and managed on their behalf, providing stability and peace of mind. We also have a customised software system that provides monthly statements to our clients.
the services they offer.
We notice many clients come to us without a clear financial plan or goals. A key part of our work is educating people on how to use 'SMART' goals to guide their finances, with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objectives. When clients follow the financial plan of action we provide, we often see them begin to recover, reduce debt, and regain control over their money.
Recently, we’ve observed several current trends affecting households. The rising cost of living is a major pressure, with higher prices for essentials like food, utilities, housing, and petrol making day-to-day expenses harder to manage. Job loss and reduced working hours are putting additional strain on many families. Many people are accessing KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals to cover immediate needs, while growing levels of personal debt, including credit cards, personal loans, and car loans, are adding further strain.
A few years ago, the majority of people seeking our help were unemployed or receiving benefits. Today, we are increasingly meeting lowand medium-income earners who are working, but struggling with the rising cost of living and the challenge of paying everyday bills. We are also seeing increasing enquiries for Kāinga Ora (Housing New Zealand) support, and in some cases, people face the risk of mortgagee sales when loan repayments become unmanageable.
When clients follow the financial plan of action we provide, we often see them begin to recover, reduce debt, and regain control over their money.
One of the most important pieces of advice and messages we share is that it’s always better to get advice before problems become unmanageable. Financial issues rarely appear overnight, and early support can provide more options, reduce stress, and make challenges easier to navigate.
We also recommend that anyone needing guidance contact MoneyTalks, a free and confidential helpline run by FinCap that connects New Zealanders with trained financial mentors across the country, including North Shore Budget Service. Reaching out is a positive first step toward regaining control and building greater financial security.
You can contact North Shore Budget Service directly on 0800 300 577, or book online at nsbs.co.nz
Dr Abid Al-Atafi
Our roll over swimming pool safety cover offers an impeccable barrier that effectively prevents unauthorized access to your pool, made with corrosion-resistant materials.
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Navigating our country through these challenging times
“We cannot control global events, but we can make sure our systems are ready to respond.”
– Finance Minister Nicola Willis
As conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global oil flows, the coalition government is focused on limiting the impacts of this on the New Zealand economy. In the short term, this means the impact on fuel prices and supply.
With roughly 20% of the world’s oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the conflict’s most immediate impact for New Zealand is not geopolitical alignment but vulnerability to fuel disruption, inflation, and slower growth.
Our government’s first step has been coordination. A ministerial group has been established to oversee fuel security and ensure a whole-of-government response.
Fuel security sits at the centre of that planning. At the time of writing, New Zealand currently had about 50 days of fuel supply, including shipments already on its way. However, prolonged conflict could disrupt refinery supply chains in Asia, which depend heavily on Middle Eastern crude.
To respond, our government is temporarily allowing fuel that meets Australian specifications to be supplied to the New Zealand market. However, we will need to prepare for the worstcase scenario, with fuel rationing to prioritise essential services such as emergency response and freight. Treasury’s projections suggest inflation will rise, though still within a relatively contained range compared to past crises. Nicola Willis has signalled that any government intervention – such as relief at the petrol pump – would be targeted, timely, and temporary, reflecting lessons learned from earlier crises like Covid-19.
Any government interventions need to balance the need for immediate support against the long-term costs that are put on future generations. That was the lesson from the Covid-19 years, where debt increased by $100 billion, the economy overheated and inflation skyrocketed to more than 7%.
Kiwis are still dealing with the fallout from this now and in the near term.
We cannot go back to major spend-ups that create long-term pain for a short-term sugar rush. Our disciplined fiscal approach to-date has seen inflation and interest rates fall, and growth come back to the economy.
With a cautious approach, where we monitor closely, hope for the best but plan for the worst, and act carefully if required, I know New Zealand will come through and thrive in these uncertain times.
Happy Easter and 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
Bold act of kindness
Last December, Danielle Fifita shaved her head to raise funds for Harbour Hospice. She did it in honour of her mother, Elizabeth Apiata, who died in Harbour Hospice care in May 2024, and raised just over $6700.
As a doctor at Whangārei Hospital, Danielle had known about hospice before Elizabeth began receiving hospice care and referred patients to its services. But it wasn’t until her mum was under Harbour Hospice care that she realised how unique and compassionate those services were. “I had expected that I would do everything for Mum. But hospice allowed my sister Moana and me to just be her daughters, and that was such a gift. We could just hold Mum and witness her being cared for so beautifully and respectfully.”
Danielle’s fundraiser took place 18 months after her mother died – a testament to how deeply touched people are by hospice care, and how connected to hospice they remain. “We can’t put a price on the care and love hospice showed Mum and our whānau,” Danielle says. “My wish is that the money raised will help ensure that the beautiful team can provide the same care to other whānau.
“In the last two years of Mum’s life, hospice provided in-home reviews, round-the-clock phone advice, doctor reviews, transport to appointments and social groups, respite care in the Inpatient Unit, and they even helped us arrange our last celebration of Mum’s life for her 60th birthday. The most special gift of all was allowing us to care for our mum in her last week of life the way we wanted to, within their space.”
It was during that week that Danielle decided she’d fundraise for Harbour Hospice. “Through talking with the nurses and asking, ‘How do you get your funding?’, I was gobsmacked when they told me hospice only receives around half its funding from the government. I was amazed they could continue to operate.”
It's thanks to the support of people like Danielle that hospice can continue to provide free specialist care to local families. Health New Zealand funds 49% of its operating costs; Harbour Hospice relies heavily on the community to help raise an additional $10 million each year. It needs the community as much as the community needs it. To add your support, visit harbourhospice.org.nz/donate/newsletter/.
Danielle beforehand (front row, second from left)
Danielle, post head-shave, with her sister Moana
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From kindy visits to community barbecues
How Rosedale Retirement Village stays connected
On Friday mornings at Albany’s Rosedale Village, the arrival of a small bus brings a refreshing burst of life. Disembarking are a dozen or so exuberant four- and five-year-olds from nearby Lollipops kindy, and within minutes the village hums with new energy. Residents are armed with pool noodles, the children are given balloons, and a cheerful chaos erupts, followed by songs, artwork and, eventually, morning tea for all. For village coordinator Jolene, it’s one of her weekly highlights. “It’s very precious when you see the smiles on the residents' faces when the kids arrive,” she says. The visits began last November and are now an important fortnightly part of the village’s wider approach to maintaining strong connections with its surrounding North Shore community. Other activities include two 'happy hours' a week with entertainers from the neighbouring community, and weekly K9 pet visits.
The residents have opportunities to go out often, too – trips to local malls, scenic bus trips, days out to nurseries and cafés, and resident choice days (often to nearby thrift stores). Tuesdays are for barbecues on the deck, and there’s weekly karaoke, movie nights, bingo, exercise sessions, arts and cooking games. Feeding the tūī and fish helps residents stay connected with nature.
For 'Meaningful Moments' assistant Shirley, helping residents stay engaged is personal. She has worked across a wide range of roles, but caring for family members with Alzheimer’s drew her into aged care. “I’m very familiar with residential facilities as I’d go in and out to visit my dad and aunties,” she says. “Being on the family side of it gave me
a real understanding of how much good care and connection matter.” Shirley’s role is to help residents continue to enjoy the things that matter to them, even if life has changed. “We work as a team to bring out the best in people,” she says.
For residents like Helen, that support makes all the difference. Helen, who will soon turn 90, moved to Rosedale Village from Greenhithe about a year ago after a series of falls which had her and her family worried. She and her daughter visited several retirement villages before choosing Rosedale. “Some of the other places felt a bit like hotels,” Helen says. “But when we walked in here, I felt the cosiness and the warmth of people straight away.” Helen has embraced village life. Stretch classes, happy hour and social activities keep her busy, and she especially enjoys the kindergarten visits. “I've got a lovely apartment too, with a balcony. I sit out there and enjoy the view of the forests,” she says.
From shared activities and outings to visits from local children and everyday catch-ups over tea, life at Rosedale Village helps residents stay connected to the world around them, with a little extra support in the background.
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By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna
Sending art somewhere?
Pack and Send Takapuna is your one-stop shop when you need to send artwork, sculptures, ceramics and antiques – anywhere. No matter how large, awkward, valuable or fragile the item is, you can rely on Pack and Send's experienced operators to package it and get it delivered safely.
Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack and Send Takapuna have a 'no limits' approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems around art and antiques. "Many of the items we have dealt with are valuable," says Jeremy. "Not only in the monetary sense, but because the pieces may have been handed down through the family for generations. They're irreplaceable on so many levels."
"It doesn't matter where it's going: New York, London, Sydney, Dunedin – the same care and attention is given to every consignment. We'll collect it, package it, take care of the documentation, track it right through to the destination and get it signed for," says Jane.
As well, Pack and Send customers can use the Freight Plus warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind –something not generally available when freighting artworks.
For those really delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack and Send can use its state-of-the-art 'Foam in Place' packaging system, which forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.
"We also produce custom-made boxes and cases to any size or shape," adds Jeremy. "Because we treat each consignment as unique, designing packaging and the freight solutions to suit, we're finding that more and more people benefit from our services."
Pack and 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.
Total protection
• For delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack and Send Takapuna can use its state-of-the-art 'Foam in Place' packaging system.
• Foam in Place forms a protective mould around the item for safe transport.
• Use Pack and Send's Freight Plus warranty cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind - something not generally available when freighting artworks.
By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.
New options to support tinnitus
Imagine a few minutes a day on your phone helping your brain tune out that ringing in your ears. New digital programmes are making tinnitus management more accessible, giving people practical ways to reduce its impact at home.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when there is no external source. Some people hear ringing, buzzing or hissing sounds. For some, it’s mild, but for others it can affect sleep, concentration and overall wellbeing. While there isn't a simple 'cure', the brain plays a major role in how we experience it. Treatment often focuses on helping the brain learn to filter the sound out – a process called habituation.
There are many treatment options available to support people with tinnitus. Different options suit different people, and it is important to rule out medical issues or even something simple like wax before starting treatment. The first step is seeing an audiologist for a wax and hearing check. If we find something suspicious, we might recommend a full hearing evaluation or referral. We can also discuss and help you choose which treatment suits you best.
way logistics should be done.
We have recently started recommending two digital treatment options which combine relaxation, mindfulness and practical strategies to help reduce the impact of tinnitus. One uses a schedule of only 10 minutes a day, the other is a more comprehensive 90 minutes a day. Both are backed by research showing benefits for eligible participants. Yet another option combines sound and nerve stimulation for a bimodal approach.
Tinnitus is highly individual, so a combination of approaches –including information, digital programmes, sound therapy, hearing aids, and stress and sleep management – often works best. When hearing loss is present, hearing aids can be particularly effective, improving hearing while providing masking sounds or adjusted amplification to make tinnitus less noticeable. If tinnitus is affecting your sleep, concentration or daily life, give us a call and make an appointment.
ENJOY THE EASE OF COASTAL LIVING
BRAND‑NEW APARTMENTS NOW OPEN TO VIEW
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 are now complete, and the show homes are open to view.
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 $699,000.*
*Reflects the lowest available price at time of publication. Availability and pricing subject to change.
Discover the Ryman lifestyle.
To find out more call Nicolle on 416 0750 or visit rymanhealthcare.co.nz/keith-park
KEITH PARK VILLAGE
3 Scott Road, Hobsonville
Experience More Than a Showroom.
The Home of Mercedes-Benz on the North Shore.
New Zealand’s largest Mercedes-Benz showroom, right here in Takapuna. Explore the latest cars, SUVs, and vans, plus a large selection of Mercedes-AMG vehicles onsite at our AMG Performance Centre.
From new and pre-owned vehicles, vehicle finance, genuine parts and expert servicing. Visit the multi-award winning team at Mercedes-Benz North Shore, for a world-class experience at every step.
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16 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna
The adventure you live for awaits –Antarctica with Seabourn
For many travellers, Antarctica represents the ultimate journey, a place of raw beauty, extraordinary wildlife and landscapes that feel almost untouched by time. With Seabourn, exploring this remarkable region becomes an ultra-luxury expedition designed to inspire curiosity and awe.
In the 2027–2028 season, Seabourn’s purposebuilt expedition ships, Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture, will sail extraordinary itineraries ranging from 10 to 25 days. These voyages explore some of the most remote and spectacular regions of the Southern Hemisphere, including South Georgia, the Chilean Fjords and the Falkland Islands. Guests can encounter vast penguin colonies, towering ice shelves and some of the most dramatic scenery on earth.
Life on board blends exploration with exceptional comfort. Each day begins with briefings from the expert expedition team, sharing insights into wildlife, weather conditions and the day’s planned discoveries. Informal 'fireside chats' offer the chance to hear stories from seasoned explorers and scientists, creating a deeper connection to the landscapes you’re experiencing.
Signature expedition moments make these journeys unforgettable. Adventurous guests can take the
A Hosted Ultra Luxury Antarctica Expedition Like No Other
11 Night Antarctica Expedition Cruise Tour
The Great White Continent
exhilarating 'polar plunge' into icy waters, while the elegant 'Caviar on the Ice' experience invites travellers to enjoy champagne and caviar surrounded by glittering glaciers.
Shore Travel is delighted to offer an 11-night hosted Antarctica expedition departing 14 February 2028, with a voyage aboard Seabourn Pursuit. Personally hosted by Jason and Mary Buckley, owners of Shore Travel, this special journey combines the expertise of Seabourn’s expedition team with the warmth and reassurance of travelling alongside experienced hosts.
With fares from $25,625AUD per person (share twin), the hosted cruise includes a pre-cruise hotel stay, with optional post-cruise extensions available.
For travellers seeking extraordinary destinations with exceptional comfort, and the reassurance of expert guidance, Antarctica with Seabourn offers the adventure of a lifetime.
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Phone: 09 489 2597 or email hello@shoretravel.co.nz
From: AUD$25,625* pp (share twin), dep 14 Feb 2028
Seabourn Pursuit is one of Seabourn’s newest ultra luxury, purpose-built expedition ships designed specifically for exploring remote destinations like Antarctica in unmatched style and comfort.
You will be personally accompanied by Jason & Mary Buckley, owners of Shore Travel, o ering warm hosted experiences, and expert guidance throughout this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
* Flights are Additional. Includes 1 night pre cruise hotel. Post Cruise extensions available on request. Additional booking terms and conditions apply
The charm of France was in full swing on Saturday 21 March: Vive La France was an outstanding success!
Celebrating the very best of French culture, cuisine and style across Milford, the town came alive with the atmosphere of a bustling French village, filled with entertainment and experiences for all ages, delicious eats, local market stalls, live performances, and so much more! Thanks to everyone who came - we hope you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed holding it.
BE IN TO WIN A WEEKEND AWAY IN MATAKANA
and this year's regatta at Lake Pupuke will include sailing, rowing, kayaking and land-based outdoor activities with all attendees camping in tents at Sylvan Park. Ablution facilities will be brought to the site, and a marquee will be erected for meals, which will be catered by Awataha Young Mariners.
Drive there in style with a Mercedes-Benz
Senior 'Seat-izens' need your support!
Mother's Day in Milford
Milford is the place to come to if you want to get mum the gift she deserves. While you are there, remember to enter her in our great giveaway! A big Mother’s Day promotion is on this month across Milford town centre. Entry forms are available in participating stores to win a weekend away at the idyllic Riverside Matakana with the use of a new Mercedes-Benz from the wonderful people at MercedesBenz North Shore. Enjoy staying in your own chalet amongst the grape vines, with excellent guest facilities and only a short distance from the Matakana Village and all its attractions. Also, check out Milford's social media, where there will be two campaigns with prizes for mum on both the Milford Shops and Milford Shopping Centre platforms. Mother's Day is on Sunday 10 May.
Young Mariners National Regatta, Lake Pupuke, Thursday 2 to Monday 6 April
Young Mariners of New Zealand Inc (YMNZ) is a national organisation which provides girls aged 8 to 18 with opportunities to build skills in water-based and outdoor activities, particularly sailing and camping. The focus is on building confidence and independence, developing new skills and having fun. It comprises units located in Auckland, Whangarei, Cambridge, Tauranga and Rotorua. Our local unit is Awataha Young Mariners, which has been sailing on Lake Pupuke for nearly thirty years, and before that was based in Birkenhead. Each year, YMNZ organises two regattas, which are an opportunity for all units to come together in a fun and competitive environment. The Easter regatta is for YMNZ units only,
Fill in the form and drop it into the Centre Court entry barrel located in Milford Shopping Centre.
This April, we’re asking the people closest to The PumpHouse to help us care for the seats that have been here longest. In 1992, 123 new blue seats were installed in the Genevieve Becroft auditorium. They’ve been there ever since, through every performance, every excited child, every standing ovation and every quietly emotional night at The PumpHouse. When one breaks, it needs to be welded back together. Sometimes a new part has to be fabricated from scratch. And the seat keeps going. They are our 'Senior Seats', and we’re fundraising to make sure we can give them the TLC they deserve.
If you’d like to support a seat, each of the 123 seats has a suggested donation between $1 and $123. Browse the seating plan, pick a seat (or a few), and make your donation. You’ll get a digital certificate, a donation receipt, and your name on our supporters’ list. Donations of $5 or more qualify for a 33% tax rebate, so a $100 donation costs you $67, and a $123 donation costs you $82. To donate, visit https://pumphouse.co.nz/support-our-senior-seats Supporting a seat is a donation to The PumpHouse Theatre and does not guarantee reserved seating at performances.
Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV
Your monthly update from Murray Hill, Manager of Milford Business Association.
BE IN TO WIN A WEEKEND
AWAY IN MATAKANA
Drive there in style with a Mercedes-Benz
Fill in the form and drop it into the Centre Court entry barrel located in Milford Shopping Centre.
T&Cs apply. Scan the QR code for full details. Entries close 30 April 2026.
Takapuna Grammar School turns 100 A
century of stories and a weekend of memories not to be missed
The countdown is officially on to Takapuna Grammar School’s 100year celebrations, with registrations now open for what will be the school’s largest reunion to date.
In less than a year, Takapuna Grammar School will commemorate a century since that day in February 1927 when the doors to the grand brick building opened for the first time and more than 200 pupils were welcomed inside.
Over Easter weekend in 2027, past and present staff and students, along with people connected to the school will come together to acknowledge the history of TGS and its place on the North Shore.
School Principal Mary Nixon said it was an honour to lead the school into such a significant milestone.
“This is a special time for Takapuna Grammar School, and we would love for all former students, teachers and members of the community with a connection to our school to come along and mark this occasion.
“We are honoured to celebrate our history and excited to showcase TGS now.”
The centenary weekend will feature a full programme of events across the school grounds.
Plans include official welcomes and performances, guided school tours, guest speakers, exhibitions, alumni sports games and a range of social gatherings throughout the weekend.
Attendees will be able to explore school buildings and grounds, view historical displays and memorabilia, take part in official year and decade photographs, and reconnect with classmates and teachers.
A commemorative centenary book and exclusive merchandise will also be released to mark the occasion.
WHAT REGISTRATION INCLUDES
• An official Takapuna Grammar School centenary lanyard
• Entry to the Reunion Welcome Drinks
• Access to all free events, including:
• Pōwhiri / Official welcome
• School tours
• Tower Room exhibition
• Official photographs
• Early pupil's morning tea
• SportsFest
Registration also provides priority access to ticketed events, with first option to book the Hāngī Lunch and the Centennial Gala Dinner.
REGISTER NOW
Registrations are now open, with early bird pricing available in 2026. Early registration is recommended to secure a place and receive updates as further details are confirmed.
Register via the TGS website: takapuna.school.nz/centenary
From humble beginnings
Takapuna Grammar School opened on 7 February 1927 with a roll of 218 pupils - 100 girls and 118 boys. As the first coeducational high school on Auckland’s North Shore, it served a growing population from Devonport to Takapuna at a time when secondary education in the area was limited.
The first year was full of challenges. Writing in the school magazine at the time, headmaster C.M. Littlejohn described learning conditions as “arduous.”
“For the first two terms we were surrounded by workmen, both inside and outside the school, the noise and din of the building operations making teaching very difficult indeed, and at times practically impossible.”
One hundred years on, Takapuna Grammar School is a very different place.
The school has more than 2,200 students enrolled and the restoration of the original Main Block in 2020 ensured the school’s historic heart remains in
use - carefully upgraded for contemporary learning while retaining its heritage character.
From its opening day in 1927 to its centenary year in 2027, Takapuna Grammar School has strived to evolve while maintaining a strong sense of pride in its past.
The centenary celebrations will recognise that history - and the people who have shaped it - over the past 100 years.
Introducing our sponsors
Our wonderful sponsors have partnered with us to support the Takapuna Grammar centenary
Hi Well Charitable Foundation: Established in 2013, Hi Well Charitable Foundation supports the social, educational and recreational wellbeing of people in New Zealand. Through targeted donation programmes, the Foundation supports talented students in secondary and tertiary education by providing scholarships and financial assistance, and provides vital resources to organisations serving people with disabilities.
Respond Architects: Respond Architects design and deliver projects spanning high-end homes, multi-unit developments, education, remediation and commercial buildings. We approach architecture as a response to site, context, culture and purpose, shaping outcomes that are considered, enduring and connected. Collaborating with private and public clients, we integrate design rigour with technical expertise to deliver buildings grounded in the New Zealand context.
Swiftsure Vineyards – A Journey South. A bold new collection from the makers of Man O’ War, Swiftsure explores New Zealand’s south through alpine vineyards in Marlborough and Bannockburn, anchored by a bistro in Arrowtown. On sub-alpine hillsides and river terraces shaped by jagged greywacke and ancient schist, these sites are carefully chosen for the purity and power they bring to the wines. Family-owned and off-piste in approach, Man O’ War and Swiftsure share a sense of place.
Peninsula is proud to support the Takapuna Grammar School Centenary Reunion Welcome Drinks in 2027.
Summerset Retirement Villages: Summerset is one of New Zealand’s leading retirement village operators, creating vibrant communities where people enjoy peace of mind, connection, and the freedom to live life their way – with the comfort of knowing help is there if needed. With eight resort-style villages across Auckland and one under development at Shoal Bay, Summerset offers a choice of living options, from independent homes to serviced living, care and memory care.
We’re on the lookout for more event sponsors to help us make the TGS Centenary truly special! Please get in touch if you’d like to discuss further: Mel Weeks | alumni@tgs.school.nz
TGS Centenary Merchandise
Limited edition TGS centenary merchandise is now available! Go to the TGS website to purchase: takapuna.school.nz/centenary
• Takapuna Grammar School
- Celebrating 100 Years: A beautifully presented, strictly limited-edition and specially commissioned history book. Pre-order your copy now for delivery in early 2027
• TGS/Swiftsure twin bottle gift packs: South Island sister to the famed Man O’ War vineyard, Swiftsure Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, with a commemorative TGS100 label.
• TGS handmade mugs: Porcelain mug with a lion crest and TGS 100 stamp - each one is unique and handmade by local potter Ann O’Sullivan.
• TGS Lion: Get in quick to secure your cute soft toy lion, complete with his own TGS striped scarf!
• TGS ‘art series’ tea towels: White cotton tea towels with three different designs, each with a unique link to TGS. Available to purchase as a set of three, or separately.
OUR SPONSORSHIP FAMILY
SUPPLIERS / SUPPORTERS
PLATINUM
GOLD
DIAMOND
Experience the ultimate food and business lunch with Ben Bayly, Michael Dearth, Kelli Brett and Judith Tabron
Join us on Friday 15 May 2026 at North Harbour Stadium for the Lexus of North Shore Food and Business Charity Lunch, proudly hosted by the North Harbour Club. Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon with celebrated chef Ben Bayly, renowned restaurateurs Michael Dearth and Judith Tabron, and MC Kelli Brett as they share insights into New Zealand’s evolving food and business scene. Indulge in a gourmet lunch, connect with North Shore leaders, and experience foodie activations with prizes and surprises – all while supporting a great cause.
The speakers and presenters:
• BEN BAYLY – Award-winning chef and restaurateur behind Ahi, Aosta, and Ahi Organic Garden and Farm, showcasing Aotearoa's flavours through sustainable, creative cuisine.
• MICHAEL DEARTH – Owner of Baduzzi and The Grove (now closed), respected restaurateur and former MasterChef NZ judge, known for his passion for hospitality and mentoring.
• JUDITH TABRON – Owner of First Mates, Last Laugh and founder of Soul Bar and Bistro, a pioneer in New Zealand dining and advocate for women in hospitality, recognised with top industry honours.
• KELLI BRETT (MC) – Editor and publisher of Cuisine magazine, championing local producers and sharing stories that celebrate New Zealand’s vibrant food scene.
Lexus of North Shore Food and Business Charity Lunch – North Harbour Stadium, Friday 15 May, from 11.45am. Bookings essential, visit www.northharbourclub.co.nz or email info@northharbourclub.co.nz.
Upcoming North Harbour Club Events in 2026
Friday
See
Tuesday
Tuesday
Visit www.northharbourclub.co.nz for further information.
Lexus of North Shore Food & Business Charity Lunch
15th May, North Harbour Stadium
article on this page.
BEN Breakfast with Eric Faesenkloet
26th May, Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna
BEN Breakfast with David Schnauer
28th July, Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna
Hotel
The Power of Alignment
Why the Parker and Marmont partnership feels less like strategy and more like inevitability
For years, Jackie Parker and Kristina Marmont operated in the same real estate landscape on Auckland’s North Shore, often just minutes from one another.
Both had strong reputations. Both had strong opinions. And both had a quiet awareness of the other.
In an industry where competition is constant, that proximity does something interesting. It builds respect – not just professional acknowledgement, but the kind earned from watching how someone works under pressure, how they treat the people around them and how they carry themselves through the highs and lows of a long career.
Ask either whether they are competitive, and both will likely smile before answering. The answer is yes, but in their case, competition was never about ego. It was always about standards.
While their personalities are distinct, their values are remarkably aligned. Both are known for high standards, fearless leadership and an unwillingness to do things halfway. Outside real estate, they share something equally grounding – a genuine love of life, strong family values and deep loyalty to the people closest to them.
Today, they represent exceptional residential property under the Sotheby’s International Realty banner, a natural environment for two professionals whose careers have been shaped by decades of experience, discretion and an understanding that property is ultimately about people.
She listens carefully before she speaks and when she does her words carry clarity and purpose.
A global perspective with a designer’s eye
Jackie Parker’s path into property began in the United Kingdom more than two decades ago. Before entering real estate, she built a professional foundation in interior design, a background that continues to influence the way she views and presents homes today.
That early training instilled a refined understanding of space, proportion and the subtle ways people interact with the environments they inhabit.
It is a perspective that distinguishes her approach.
Where others might focus on measurements or surface presentation, Parker reads a home in a more layered way. She considers how natural light moves through the property during the day, how interior spaces connect with the landscape beyond and how a home might evolve with the people who live there.
Clients often notice this difference early.
She sees possibilities others overlook. Balance. Flow. Perspective. A home, in Jackie’s view, is not simply a structure. It is a composition.
Her design background allows her to recognise the deeper qualities that elevate a property beyond its surface features. It informs how she advises vendors on presentation, how she communicates the story of a home to buyers and how she positions
a property within the wider market.
Alongside this design sensitivity sits another defining strength. Negotiation.
Across her career Jackie has been involved in thousands of auctions and competitive sales environments where composure and judgement matter enormously. Those experiences have sharpened her ability to read buyer behaviour, understand market psychology and guide negotiations with calm authority.
Those who work with Jackie rarely describe her style as forceful. Instead they speak of quiet confidence. She listens carefully before she speaks and when she does her words carry clarity and purpose.
Much of Jackie’s work has centred around waterfront, coastal and lifestyle properties where land, outlook and long term value intersect. Years of exposure to these environments have given her a sophisticated understanding of what makes a home genuinely exceptional.
“You have to understand what you are standing on,” Jackie explains.
“The setting, the view lines, the way light moves through a property and the way people will live in it. Those things matter far more than surface features.”
Jackie Parker
Deep roots and generational relationships If Jackie brings global perspective and design sensitivity, Kristina Marmont contributes something equally powerful: deep local knowledge and relationships built over generations.
Kristina grew up on Auckland’s North Shore, where property and community have always been closely connected. Her parents, Lorraine and Wayne Marmont, were respected figures in the local real estate market, and she began her career working alongside them. Those early years shaped a philosophy that still guides her work today.
Reputation matters. Relationships matter more.
Watching her parents conduct business in a close-knit community instilled a clear understanding that every property transaction carries lasting consequences. People remember how they are treated during important life moments, and they remember the honesty and guidance behind the advice they receive.
That philosophy has remained central to Kristina’s approach throughout a career now spanning more than two decades.
During that time, she has guided thousands of families through significant property transitions, including upsizing, downsizing, relocation and major life changes. In many cases, she has worked with multiple generations of the same family, something she considers one of the most meaningful parts of the profession.
Families she once helped purchase their first home often return as their lives evolve. Sometimes years later. Sometimes decades later.
As children grow, circumstances change or new opportunities arise, Kristina frequently finds herself guiding the same clients through the next chapter of their property journey.
People often remark on her ability to make complex property decisions feel manageable. Her calm manner and attentive listening allow clients to feel understood long before contracts are discussed, while her industry knowledge and understanding of compliance ensure every transaction is handled with precision and care.
“Real estate is rarely just a transaction,” Kristina says. “Often it is a moment of change in someone’s life. My role is to guide people through that moment with confidence and quiet assurance.”
Clients return not simply because she achieves strong results, but because they trust her to manage the entire process with honesty, patience and sound judgement.
When
alignment becomes inevitable
Where Jackie brings global perspective, design intuition and negotiation expertise, Kristina contributes deep community relationships and decades of local market knowledge. Together, they offer something rare: international perspective combined with generational trust.
Alongside them, Deanna Barber as brand and marketing manager and Alona Winstanley as operations manager bring their own expertise and commitment to everything the partnership represents. It is a team built on the same principles that define Jackie and Kristina’s client work – precision, care and an unwavering attention to detail.
Their work centres around Auckland’s most desirable residential environments, properties that require thoughtful representation and clients who expect guidance, strategy and discretion from the people entrusted with their most significant assets.
For Jackie Parker and Kristina Marmont, those expectations are not aspirational. They are simply the standard.
Sotheby's International Realty, Takapuna 159 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna nzsothebysrealty.com
Kristina Marmont
Deanna Barber, Kristina Marmont, Jackie Parker and Alona Winstanley
Anzac Day 2026commemorations across the Shore
Anzac Day is a time for Kiwis (and our Aussie cousins) to reflect, remember, and come together out of respect for all those who have served for our country. This month, we speak with local people involved in commemorating the day and explore what it means to them, and how the community can get involved to continue the spirit and significance of commemorations. Our interviewees reference current world events in reflecting on the importance of Anzac Day, and they provide interesting insights and details on local events happening this year.
simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz
The Navy Museum
Jane Cotty is the communications and engagement manager at the Navy Museum, where permanent exhibitions showcase the story of the Navy’s contribution in New Zealand. She has worked at the museum for nearly nine years and is a local, living in Belmont with her family.
Channel Mag: How are you preparing for Anzac Day this year?
Jane Cotty: Anzac Day at the museum is a very special day for our visitors and us. This year, the museum is preparing by making sure all the bits to make our traditional paper poppies with the public are cut out and ready to go. Our educator Emma will be working with local schools, talking about Anzac Day, the significance of the poppy and making poppies with the children. We also make poppies before Anzac Day with naval personnel on the base and with the Navy’s newest recruits, which we plant in our Remembrance Field.
What role do you play in shaping the services and commemorations held on the Shore each year?
Our role on Anzac Day is to provide a space for our community and veterans to come and remember their fellow sailors, meet friends and family and share stories. We make traditional paper poppies with visitors all day to plant in our Remembrance Field, which sits in our remembrance space. Some visitors choose to recognise individual family members who have served when they plant their poppy.
Our front-of-house team enjoys talking with visitors about Anzac Day and taking short tours of the galleries. Over the years, we’ve noticed increasing numbers of recent arrivals, new Kiwis, who like to visit the museum on Anzac Day to gain an understanding of the commemoration and connection to their new home.
We make traditional paper poppies with visitors all day to plant in our Remembrance Field…
What message would you like to share with Channel Mag readers about remembrance, community and supporting veterans today?
The museum offers a safe space for veterans to meet their families, friends and to share their personal stories. We recognise the service of past and present service people and create meaning and connection for our community with Anzac Day. We invite our community to come down to the museum after their local Anzac Day service to remember and honour those who have served and join us to make a paper poppy.
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, 64 King Edward Parade, Devonport. navymuseum.co.nz
Authorised by Hon Simon Watts, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
Jane Cotty, communications and engagement manager, Navy Museum
East Coast Bays RSA
Ali Martin is the president of the East Coast Bays RSA. He also works as an IT consultant and runs his own business, Digital Redesignz. Ali has been part of East Coast Bays RSA for more than 15 years, and this is his fourth year as president. Originally from Devizes in Wiltshire, England, Ali has called New Zealand home for 24 years and is married with two adult daughters. Before settling 'down under', he served in the British Army with the Royal Corps of Signals in Germany (BAOR).
Channel Mag: How are you preparing for Anzac Day this year?
Ali Martin: Our Anzac Day planning actually starts back in November. It’s a big undertaking and involves a huge amount of time and dedication, especially from our vice president, Donna Stewart. There’s coordination with Auckland Council, local schools, bands, and all the moving parts that go into both the dawn and civic services. It takes many hours of volunteer work to make sure everything runs smoothly. Running the only North Shore dawn service makes it even more important that we get it right. We also work closely with the Devonport and Birkenhead RSAs to ensure consistency and support across the Shore.
What role do you play in shaping the services and commemorations each year?
My main role is organising the after-events at Speakers Corner Ale House and the Bays Club. It’s our way of saying thank you to everyone who supports us each year, and it also helps us continue supporting local businesses, something we’ve done for a
long time. Donna is the key organiser for both the dawn and civic parades, working alongside Auckland Council. There’s a mountain of paperwork, permits, logistics, and coordination involved, including speakers, singers, pipe bands, cadet units and parade planning... the list goes on. Good planning is absolutely essential.
Every year is meaningful. Everything the RSA stands for comes back to honouring our veterans.
What makes this year’s commemorations meaningful for your members and the wider North Shore community?
Every year is meaningful. Everything the RSA stands for comes back to honouring our veterans. Even though we no longer have clubrooms, we still have a strong presence in the North Shore community. Our involvement in the Poppy Appeal and Anzac Day remains as active as ever. These events are at the heart of who we are.
North Shore RSAs each have unique histories. What local stories or traditions matter most this year?
The East Coast Bays area has a rich history of service, with strong connections to both world wars and many active serving members today. For us, it’s not about highlighting something ‘just for this year’, it's about consistently recognising and honouring that history every year. It’s part of our identity.
How do you engage younger generations to ensure the legacy of remembrance continues?
We’ve always worked closely with the local cadet units, and we support them each year with ongoing donations. They’re a vital part of our legacy and the future of remembrance. Our services also include local schools, with students giving speeches and performing. We’ve noticed a strong turnout from younger generations at both the dawn and civic services, which is encouraging. We always remind people that Anzac Day isn’t just a day off; it has meaning, and it’s important to understand why we gather at 6am to remember.
What message would you like to share with Channel Mag readers about remembrance, community, and supporting veterans today?
It’s important to remember our history and why Anzac Day exists. Gallipoli may be long past, but Anzac Day is a time to reflect on all wars and all who served. We only need to look at the news to see how fragile peace can be. WWI was meant to be ‘the war to end all wars’, yet here we are. We need to learn from the past and work toward a world where people and nations can live side by side in peace. Anzac Day shouldn’t be treated as just another public holiday. It takes only a couple of minutes at dawn to stand, reflect, and honour those who never came home and the families who never saw them return. It’s also a time to support those who are serving today, protecting New Zealand’s interests and helping preserve the freedoms we enjoy. We would like to say to all Channel Mag readers that if you are a veteran, or if you know a veteran who needs some support, contact your local RSA or ECB RSA on 09 478 8033 or ecbrsa@xtra.co.nz .
East Coast Bays RSA: ecbrsa.co.nz
Ali Martin, president of East Coast Bays RSA
Birkenhead RSA
George Coffin is a life member and currently the welfare delegate of the Birkenhead RSA. He has been a member of the RSA for 32 years, serving as president, vice president and committee member for the last 24 years, and was previously involved from age 18 in the Kaitaia RSA, where his father was a life member. George is also a nominated member of the Poppy Foundation committee, a subsidiary of the Ranfurly Veterans’ Trust. George has a great deal of experience and knowledge, having served in the Royal New Zealand Navy, the hospitality industry, education and the property maintenance arena. His family has belonged to the RSA movement since the end of the Second World War, with his father and uncles having served.
lives so we could live free of oppression. In addition, to pass on this history to our younger people.
North Shore RSAs each have unique histories – what local stories or traditions are important to highlight this year?
Channel Mag: What role do you play in shaping the services and commemorations held on the Shore each year?
George Coffin: For the last four years, I have organised Anzac Day for the Birkenhead RSA by liaising with the Kaipatiki Community Facilities Trust, the Birkenhead RSA section manager, the Birkenhead RSA executive committee members and the Birkenhead RSA’s women’s section. It’s a varied event with roles to cover including poppy stands, parade marshall, band, colour and catafalque party, liaising with politicians, wreaths, transport and more.
What makes this year's commemorations meaningful for your members and the wider North Shore community? Every year, it is important to remember those who have fallen who gave up their
The Birkenhead Returned Services Association was first conceived at a meeting of interested people in the rooms of Dr J.W. Craven at Highbury in 1929. This led to the formation of the Birkenhead Returned Services Club, which had its first AGM on 30 August 1930 in what was then the RAOB Hall at Highbury. The committee elected at that AGM developed the initial rules/constitution of the organisation, which was to be a sub-branch of the Auckland RSA. Birkenhead RSA currently has one member who is 100, and another who is 107. This 107-year-old was the guest speaker at the Birkenhead RSA Armistice Day commemoration last year, and he spoke very eloquently.
Every year, it is important to remember those who have fallen who gave up their lives so we could live free of oppression.
How do you engage younger generations to ensure the legacy of remembrance continues?
We endeavour to visit local schools and work closely with Birkdale Primary School. We currently engage students from the Vanguard Military School to participate in the Anzac Day parade as our colour and catafalque
party. We also encourage local scouting groups and children from kindergartens and schools to march in the Anzac Day parade. Every year, we drop off poppy boxes at all the schools within our designated area.
What message would you like to share with Channel Mag readers about remembrance, community and supporting veterans today?
Poppy Day is the time when we reach out to the public for their support in raising funds for our veterans. Along with further support from the Ranfurly Trust, we are able to take care of our veterans' health and needs.
Birkenhead RSA: birkenheadrsa.com
George Coffin, welfare delegate of Birkenhead RSA
Devonport RSA
Muzz Kennett is a current serving member of the Royal New Zealand Navy and the recent president of the Devonport RSA. He has just passed the baton to a new president. He joined the Navy two days after his sixteenth birthday and has served for an impressive 51 years!
conflicts and acknowledge the sacrifices that those who are currently serving make.
North Shore RSAs each have unique histories. What local stories or traditions are important to highlight this year?
Channel Mag: How are you preparing for Anzac Day this year?
Muzz Kennett: A service is planned to commence at 11am, with a street march from Fleet Street at 10.45am to the memorial. The RNZN Pipes and Drums band will lead the parade, followed by the veterans platoon, then the platoons of the newest Naval recruits, the local area volunteer fire brigade, scouts, schools and others.
What role do you play in shaping the services and commemorations held on the Shore each year?
I generally help plan the event with the assistance of the RSA committee and the events manager from Auckland Council.
What makes this year's commemorations meaningful for your members and the wider North Shore community?
Anzac Day is a time to remember those who have fought and died for New Zealand in all wars. It is also time to reflect on current
This year, we will be telling the story of Lt John Walker, RNZN, WWII Devonport resident who was killed on active service in the English Channel on 26 December 1944 aged 33. His son is still alive, served in the Navy and is a current member of the Devonport RSA.
How do you engage younger generations to ensure the legacy of remembrance continues?
We make a point of involving the youth of Devonport; we engage a young person to recite the ode in te reo, the RSA Takapuna Grammar School youth ambassador reads the Anzac dedication, Devonport Primary School students read a prayer and a bible reading, 11 year old Celine Wu plays the last post and reveille, Sea Cadets provide the catafalque guard and flag bearers, and the newest Naval recruits parade.
What message would you like to share with Channel Mag readers about remembrance, community and supporting veterans today? The Devonport community consistently
shows strong support for the Devonport RSA and its veterans. In turn, the RSA gives back by donating to youth groups, and recently started a youth volunteer group. Veterans from previous wars and current conflicts rely on RSA assistance, especially as more individuals returning from overseas are suffering from PTSD or are experiencing difficulties and seeking help. Your generous contributions to the annual Poppy Appeal are greatly appreciated.
Devonport RSA: devonportrsa.co.nz
Muzz Kennett, recent president of Devonport RSA
The 23rd Reinforcements, on board the World War I troopship Ruapehu.
relating to World War I. Ref 14-061230-F.
The enduring impact of Anzac Day
Every year on 25 April in New Zealand, workplaces and schools close in recognition of those who serve and have served New Zealand in times of war, conflict and disaster, but also in remembrance of a specific World War I campaign that happened over a hundred years ago at Gallipoli.
On 25 April 1915, around 20,000 soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in what is now Türkiye. Turkish resistance was strong as Ottoman soldiers fought to protect their homeland, and their attack from higher ground with heavy artillery was ultimately successful in preventing any significant Allied advance.
There were some moments of success for the Allied forces, such as a now-famous New Zealand effort that briefly captured some high ground at Chunuk Bair. However, for the most part, it was eight long months of incredibly harsh living conditions and devastating battles against the Ottoman forces.
The Allies made the decision to withdraw, and all troops were evacuated from Gallipoli by early January 1916. By that time, more than 130,000 men had died, including more than 8,700 Australians and 2,779 New Zealanders. (Data from nzhistory.govt.nz)
WHY WAS THIS CAMPAIGN SO IMPORTANT TO US?
The Gallipoli campaign was New Zealand’s first significant international battle in World War I. Those who fought as part of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps were said to have shown great courage, commitment, comradeship and integrity. These are qualities New Zealanders were proud to accept as part of our national character. It created a high bar of conduct, one that many New Zealanders aspire to, and it is why we are proud to continue to think of ourselves as 'Anzacs'.
The day became an official public holiday in New Zealand in 1920 to commemorate those who gave their lives in World War I for ‘the Empire’. The focus has long since widened to include the many who have served New Zealand in other wars, conflicts and disasters, recognising that the Anzac spirit we celebrated after World War I has endured, and that the people who have served since also deserve to be honoured.
EMBLEMS OF REMEMBRANCE
The timing of the dawn parade on Anzac Day reflects the early morning landing of the first ANZAC troops at Gallipoli. The dawn parade makes visible to the community those who serve and have served, even though their service may have taken place
far from our shores.
A wreath is laid, containing poppies which symbolise the sacrifice of bloodshed. After hymns or songs and solemn readings, the Last Post is played, followed by one minute’s silence. The Last Post is a traditional military bugle call once used to signify the end of day; at military funerals, it signals that a soldier has gone to their final rest and on Anzac Day, it is a final farewell to all the fallen.
The impact of Anzac Day for you may be because you or your family felt first-hand the devastation of the loss of loved ones in service, or have someone who serves or has served, or it may be that you have learnt of the historic actions of others and want to take pride in the name Anzac and the courage and tenacity that word has come to represent. However you come to Anzac Day, come prepared to honour the past, the present and the future of the Anzac spirit.
Neill, Gordon Kirkpatrick Negatives
Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington
Albert Henry Shaw, 1914, 23rd Reinforcements, Auckland Infantry Regiment, A Company, with his identity tag, thanks to Robyn Arblaster
Our 107-year-old veteran and the importance of memorials
Bruce Powell was born in England in 1918, some six months before the end of World War I and served in World War II in the British Army in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. He began his service career in July 1939 as part of a technical workshop with the Anti-Aircraft Command, known as the "Ack-Ack Command."
The AAC, alongside maintaining artillery, also looked after searchlights and, in the early days of the war, hearing devices. “Remember, this was before we had radar. The hearing devices didn’t really do much!" Bruce says.
In 1939, Bruce was sent to France as part of a mechanised cavalry workshop, where he was primarily repairing tanks that might have been hit or had a mechanical failure. “Often it was just a flat battery," Bruce says. “They had the radio and the engine attached to the same battery, so that if they had to make a lot of radio transmissions, it would drain the battery. It was not a very useful set-up.”
When the regiment was on the move along the Belgian frontier, Bruce’s job was to ride a motorcycle beside the tanks. That was so that if the tank came off its track, often when the driver turned too sharply, Bruce was on the spot and able to put it back on. Bruce would have been at Dunkirk with his regiment if he hadn’t been evacuated a few days earlier with meningitis. He was in a hospital bed listening to the radio when he heard the reports of the German invasion of northern France. He knew his regiment would be on its way to meet those forces. It was also via the radio that he first heard of the Dunkirk evacuation and of the men he knew who
ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS
had died. Post recovery, Bruce went on to serve in North Africa until 1946.
In 1955, Bruce moved to New Zealand with his family, where he built his own home on Wairau Road in Glenfield. Being part of the Glenfield community was important to him, and he became the chairman of the Glenfield Community Centre. In 1990, he found his walk to the centre would take him up Hall Road past the War Memorial Hall. He was dismayed by the state of the hall and its memorial. Overgrown grass, beer cans, and other rubbish had proliferated. The two brick columns of the memorial were beginning to cave in, and the bronze plaques they held, each with the names of local Glenfield men who had given their lives in World Wars I and II, were covered by weeds and damaged with verdigris.
“The reality of a war memorial is that it is a grave. The majority of those men had no known grave – so this memorial is their resting place,” he says. Bruce joined with the Hillcrest Lions Club to save the hall, doing much of the work on the hall himself, along with other volunteers. They reused the bricks from the existing memorial to build a new one. The bronze plaques were restored and put in place on new columns. With assistance from the council and fundraising, they even made an addition. Bruce had the original plans from 1932, which included a supper room. That room was built to those plans and is now named the Bruce Powell Supper Room.
Bruce attends the Anzac Day services every year. Well, actually, he attends two services: the Birkenhead service, because he is a proud member of the Birkenhead RSA, and the service he initiated at the Glenfield War Memorial Hall. Bruce says,
“Anzac Day is a day of honour. It’s important to remember those men we lost and everything they did for us. That’s why we say ‘Lest we forget’.”
Thanks to Birkenhead RSA and Richard Guerra, Veterans Welfare Officer, for introducing us to Bruce.
At the time of printing, some Anzac Day commemoration times hadn’t been finalised. Please check with your local RSA, the national website rsa.org.nz, or your local community groups, for confirmed details closer to the date.
Birkenhead War Memorial Park, Mahara Ave Parade: unconfirmed at time of printing Service: unconfirmed at time of printing
Devonport War Memorial, King Edward Parade
Parade: 10.45am, from Fleet Street. Service: 11am
Glenfield War Memorial Hall, Hall Road, Glenfield
Parade: 11.20am from Ross Road into Hall Road, Service: 11.30am
Browns Bay War Memorial, Manly Esplanade
Combined North Shore RSA Dawn Parade and Service
Parade: Fall in 5.15am, corner of Anzac Road and Beachfront Lane, Browns Bay Service: 6am at the War Memorial, Manly Esplanade
East Coast Bays Memorial Parade and Service
Parade: Fall in 8am, corner of Anzac Road and Beachfront Lane, Browns Bay Service: 8.45am at War Memorial, Manly Esplanad
Richard Guerra and Bruce Powell
Part of the Glenfield Memorial
Glenfield War Memorial Hall
Women's championship winners fight it out around a buoy: Brianna Orams in front, followed by Rosara Davis and Maddie McAsey.
Local SUPers paddle to the podium
By Christine Young
2026 NZSUP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION WINNERS
MEN
• Fergus Dunlop (Takapuna), gold in the Overall Men’s, and in the Over 19 divisions
• Jordan Zagonel (Red Beach), silver in the Overall Men’s and gold in the Over 40 division
• Bruce Curson (Bayswater), bronze in the Overall Men’s competition, and gold in the Over 50 division.
WOMEN
• Maddie McAsey (Chatswood) gold in the Overall Women’s and in the Over 19 Women’s division
• Briana Orams (O19, Torbay), silver in the Overall Women’s division
• Rosara Davis (U19, Takapuna / Takapuna Grammar), gold in the Under 19 and bronze in the Overall Women’s divisions
There must be something in the local water. Last month, at the conclusion of the national Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) championships at Takapuna, the six overall championship podium places, plus other awards, were won by North Shore paddlers. Christine Young spoke to three of the winners.
But first, a few details about the competition, which attracted 66 entries from New Zealand and overseas. To win any of the ‘overall’ titles, competitors raced in three disciplines that test the athletes’ all-round prowess. Sprint racing took place on Friday 6 March, a short, high-speed race with buoy turns. On Saturday attention turned to technical racing – a challenging 900m course, with seven buoy turns, featuring beach chicanes and a three-lap final. Sunday was devoted to distance racing.
“The three disciplines are completely different, and each one has its own challenges,” says Jordan Zagonel. “For the sprints, nailing the starts is fundamental, since the race is only 200m long and takes
one minute. For the technical race, being good at turns gives you an upper hand since we do lots of turns (we had 18 turns at the final). And finally for the long distance, technique and endurance are key.”
Bruce Curson is a self-described “50-yearold amateur”. “The long-distance race was definitely most gruelling,” he says, “an 11km grind after two days of racing. The technical is probably most challenging but also most fun, with a bunch of different elements involved. Beach starts, mid-race portage (beach run with board) and a ton of turns.”
It seems SUP is a relatively informal sport, with few organised clubs – until you get serious about it. But even at competitive level, it’s largely up to individual motivation and training.
Bruce became involved through a social paddle board club in Devonport, and took part in “casual weekly racing. I’m attracted to the sport by my love of all things ocean and my competitive nature. And the local SUP crew. A top bunch of blokes and girls.”
He says he “very loosely” belongs to the
casual Cheltenham Paddleboard Club, which has “largely faded of late as everyone has gone wingfoiling instead”. He mostly trains, two to three times a week, from home in Bayswater and with the Takapuna SUP group at Takapuna Beach.
Jordan started paddling on an inflatable board in 2015. When he moved to Orewa, he bought his first race board, and “started to paddle almost every day, before or after work (this was my gym). Then I met a group of paddlers who would train every Saturday morning in Orewa, and racing was kind of the next step, since it gives you a goal.
“I don't really belong to any club. Sometimes I train with the group that paddles in Takapuna, but most of time I'm on my own up at Red Beach, where I live now. I try to be on the water all year round (three to four times a week is the goal, not always achievable), but in the weeks prior to the nationals I tend to focus on skills like beach starts and turns, and keep the momentum going. “
Takapuna Grammar student Rosara Davis is a multi-sport athlete, also excelling in cycling and kayaking. She got into SUP racing as she grew up watching her parents race, but “soon fell in love with it through paddling at Takapuna and quickly loved the mix of endurance, skill and ocean conditions. Every race is different depending on wind, swell and tactics, which makes the sport really exciting.
“I train mostly at Takapuna Beach or Lake Pupuke locally with a group of North Shore paddlers, known as the Taka SUP Squad. We’re lucky to have a really motivated group who enjoy training hard together, and local paddler Steve Dunlop often helps organise our Saturday morning sessions.”
Rosara, like the other two women on the Championship podium this year, has represented New Zealand internationally. She’s aiming to compete at the ICF Stand Up Paddleboarding World Championships in Italy in October this year, as it is her last year competing as a junior in the U18 category. She has previously competed in the ISA SUP worlds in 2022 in Puerto Rico and the ICF SUP worlds in Thailand 2023. “I am buzzing to get back into the racing scene overseas which is massive, as there are so many strong junior and open women paddlers which makes awesome competition!”
Locally, she’s also driven by the paddlers around her: “I was thrilled to win the 11km distance race. It was a very close and tough race with Maddie McCasey and Brianna Orams, which I loved. We were still together with about 500m to go before I managed to pull out a final sprint to take the win.
“I also really enjoy technical racing. I won a bronze medal in the Under-19 technical race at the World Championships in
Thailand in 2023. The final technical race [in the national championships] had around 18 buoy turns and very tight racing. My start didn’t go to plan and Brianna blocked me well early on, but it was great fun racing so closely. Maddie definitely had the edge on the day to take that win.
“I love SUP racing because it is so diverse. You need to be able to have a good sprint but also be able to hold a fast pace over a long distance race and have the technical skills of balance and timing in the technical race which is sometimes in the waves, which adds to the diverse skill set you must have especially well, being on narrow boards.”
Jordan has also competed internationally, but currently has no plans for future international events. “I went to Thailand a couple of years ago to do the ICF World Championship,” he says. “It was amazing to be amongst all the athletes I usually see on the internet, and it was pretty interesting the see the level of organisation required to put together such a big event (there were just above 1000 paddlers of all ages and categories).”
Most of the local paddlers take part in the summer-long 14-event Takapuna Beach Series (a 4km technical race every Tuesday night), and Jordan and Bruce also entered the mammoth 26km Cambridge to Hamilton race on the Waikato River at the start of summer, where Bruce finished second to Jordan.
The paddlers Channel Mag spoke to all mentioned the training benefits of, as Bruce puts it, “paddling in everything”. Rosara comments that training at Takapuna “helps prepare for different conditions because it gets lots of different conditions which I paddle in – wind, crosswinds and often some swell – so you learn to adapt quickly. “
Jordan is perhaps a little more considered in his approach. “I always try to have similar training conditions that I know I'll find during a certain event. For example, for the Cambridge to Hamilton race, I try to do longer paddles on the Puhoi River, close to home.”
Whatever the approach, it’s clear there’s special about the local SUP community, creating some outstanding paddlers. Bruce attributes the success to the “close knit paddling community who paddle regularly together out of Taka Beach”.
“I think the Saturday training sessions associated with the Beach Series are responsible for keeping people active,” adds Jordan. “There were other groups like the one in Orewa that slowly thinned out and disappeared, but the Takapuna one continues strong.”
Rosara agrees. “North Shore paddlers did really well overall and I think that’s because we have a strong local paddling community. A lot of us train together regularly and push each other, which really helps everyone lift their performance.”
And with at least one of our national podium winners heading to offshore competitions later this year, watch this space…
Jordan Zagonel leads one of the men's races ahead of Bruce Carson
Fergus Dunlop, men's championship winner, rounds a mark near the Takapuna boat ramp
Jordan Zagonal leads Bruce Curson and Fergus Dunlop in close racing off Takapuna
Ear Health, Devonport 82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5pm Sat & Sun: Closed www.earhealth.co.nz | 09 242 0866
A hidden gem in the heart of Devonport
Tucked away in one of Devonport’s most beautiful corners, Waitematā Golf Club is so much more than a golf club. With a warm and welcoming café, a kitchen that comes alive on weekends, a stunning events space with views across the fairways; this is a destination the whole community is invited to enjoy.
Great coffee, great food, great company
At the heart of the clubhouse is a café serving Chiasso coffee – one of New Zealand’s most loved roasters – alongside a selection of cabinet food and snacks to keep you going whatever the time of day. Whether you’re a member popping in after a round or a local looking for a relaxed spot to catch up with friends, you’ll always find a warm welcome here.
From Friday through the weekend, the kitchen fires up a full menu, making Waitematā Golf Club the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a relaxed dinner with a view. Fresh, honest food in a setting that feels a world away from the hustle – yet right on your doorstep.
A space for the whole community
Want to make the most of everything the club has to offer? Social memberships are available, giving you access to the café, kitchen, bar and events space, without needing to pick up a club. It's a great way to become part of the Waitematā community - and the team would love to welcome you.
That spirit of community extends to the events space, too. The clubhouse and its beautiful balcony – with gorgeous views out over the fairways – can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it an ideal venue for everything from birthday celebrations and corporate functions to private dinners and community gatherings. The team
offers full catering menus to suit every occasion, taking the stress out of event planning so you can simply enjoy the day.
Come and see for yourself
Whether you’re curious about membership, looking for the perfect venue for your next event, or simply in need of a great coffee and a bite to eat, the team at Waitematā Golf Club would love to see you. The club is proud to be part of the Devonport community and looks forward to welcoming many more locals through its doors.
By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd
Navigating uncertainty:
Why Takapuna and Milford still shine
In times of uncertainty, it’s natural for both buyers and sellers to pause, observe, and question what lies ahead. Market shifts, interest rate movements, and global influences can all create a sense of hesitation. However, one thing remains consistent: quality locations continue to perform.
On Auckland’s North Shore, Takapuna and Milford stand out as enduring favourites. These coastal suburbs offer more than just homes; they deliver a lifestyle that is increasingly sought after. With beautiful beaches, a vibrant café culture, excellent school zones, and convenient access to the CBD, they continue to attract strong buyer interest, even in a changing market.
What we are seeing today is not a lack of buyers, but a more considered and discerning approach. Buyers are taking their time, doing their research, and focusing on properties that truly meet their needs. Well-presented homes in prime locations are still generating solid enquiries and, in many cases, competitive interest.
What we are seeing today is not a lack of buyers, but a more considered and discerning approach. Buyers are taking their time, doing their research, and focusing on properties that truly meet their needs.
For vendors, this means strategy is more important than ever. Pricing, presentation, and targeted marketing play a crucial role in achieving a premium result. For buyers, it presents an opportunity to enter these desirable suburbs with greater confidence and less pressure than in previous peak periods.
Uncertainty is part of every property cycle, but so is opportunity. And in Takapuna and Milford, the fundamentals remain strong, making them consistently attractive places to call home.
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
@ Bayleys Takapuna
Tabitha Coleman, General Manager Devonport Business Association
The ripple effect of Sunsetter
New data from Sunsetter 2026 shows what happens when an event doesn’t just arrive in Devonport, but connects with it.
We recently received independent electronic transaction data analysed by Marketview for Sunsetter 2026, and it’s the kind of reading you don’t mind sitting with for a minute.
On Saturday 31 January, spending across Devonport village businesses reached $421,740 across just over 9,000 transactions. That’s an 18.7% increase on the average January Saturday – or roughly $66,000 in additional spend in a single day. Devonport is no stranger to a busy summer weekend, but this is something else. The numbers point to a clear uplift tied to the event, rather than just good weather and a full ferry.
Hospitality, in particular, had a standout day. Cafés, restaurants and takeaways saw a 41.3% increase in spend, alongside a 49.5% jump in transactions. In simple terms, people didn’t just come for the event – they came early, stayed late, and made a day (and night) of it.
A number of local businesses hosted after-parties and reported strong trade well into the evening, which is exactly the kind of flow-on effect you hope for when an event lands well in a place like Devonport. What’s also encouraging is the year-on-year growth. Spend was up 6.3% on Sunsetter 2025, with transactions increasing by 4%, suggesting this isn’t a one-off spike but something building momentum.
For us, this kind of data is useful. It helps move the conversation beyond “events feel busy” to something more concrete. It shows what’s possible when an event integrates with the village, not just physically, but in a way that encourages people to explore, linger, and spend locally. Devonport has always been a strong host for events, but Sunsetter is a good example of how that relationship can work at its best – creating energy, supporting local business, and giving people a reason to stay a little longer than they planned.
Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz
Sunsetter Festival - photo by Robin Smith
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Counselling without the wait.
A t N o r t h s p a n W e l l b e i n g , o u r F a s t T r a c k s e r v i c e o f f e r s
s a m e o r n e x t d a y a p p o i n t m e n t s w i t h q u a l i f i e d p r o f e s s i o n a l
c o u n s e l l o r s .
W e s u p p o r t i n d i v i d u a l s , p a r e n t s , c o u p l e s , f a m i l i e s ,
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c a r e .
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A u c k l a n d .
W e c a n h e l p w i t h :
A n x i e t y a n d d e p r e s s i o n
S c h o o l c o n c e r n s
E f f e c t i v e c o m m u n i c a t i o n
C o p i n g s k i l l s
G r i e f a n d t r a u m a
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@ n o r t h s p a n w e l l b e i n g
Supporting your journey, together.
F a s t T r a c k
133 years of care and a new chapter for mental wellbeing
Kelly Olsen, Chief Executive
Some organisations are woven so quietly into the fabric of a city that their presence is felt more than it is seen.
For 133 years, Wingspan has been one of those constants – walking alongside Aucklanders through life’s more difficult chapters. This April, as the charity marks another year, a new initiative creates a new milestone, continuing its legacy and acknowledging modern life:
Northspan Wellbeing.
Life today moves fast. Between family, relationships, work, finances, economic pressures, global uncertainty and the constant of obligations and expectations, it can feel like there’s little room to pause – let alone ask for help. The need to talk, reflect, and regain perspective has never been more present.
That need isn’t new. When Wingspan was founded in April 1893, Auckland was a very different place, but today the heart of the work is the same. Established as the New Zealand Society for the Protection of Women and Children, Wingspan began with a simple yet powerful purpose: to stand beside people during moments of vulnerability and to advocate for care, dignity, and wellbeing when few systems existed
Over more than a century, Wingspan has adapted as society has changed – through wars, economic shifts, evolving family life, and changing attitudes to mental health. Names have changed, services have evolved, but the underlying commitment has remained constant: everyone deserves access to professional support, regardless of
Today, Wingspan expresses that commitment through counselling services that support individuals, couples, whānau/families, children, and young people across Tāmaki Makaurau. And now, it is also practised through Northspan Wellbeing – a new chapter shaped by the realities of modern life, and grounded in manaakitanga (care and
A contemporary space for today’s lives
Northspan Wellbeing was established with today's societal demands in mind. Based in Takapuna on Auckland’s North Shore, it offers a welcoming space where people can step out of the noise of daily life and into empathetic, professional care. It supports people navigating everything from work stress and burnout to relationship changes, parenting pressures, anxiety, grief, and the quiet sense of being 'a bit lost' that can creep in when life is full but feels unbalanced. The environment is contemporary and accessible, designed to be comfortable, not clinical – a place where arriving as you are is enough. Northspan Wellbeing is deeply connected to Wingspan’s long-standing values.
Care that extends outward
What makes Northspan Wellbeing different is not just how it feels, but how it functions; it operates as a social enterprise and charitable subsidiary of Wingspan Trust. Every counselling session contributes not only to the wellbeing of the person in the room, but also to the wider community. All profits are reinvested back into Wingspan, helping to continue to fund low-cost and voluntary-contribution counselling services for those who may otherwise struggle to access support. In simple terms: choosing Northspan Wellbeing means looking after yourself,
while also helping ensure someone else can receive manaakitanga (care) when they need it. It’s a model that reflects a shared understanding: that wellbeing is a collective right, and if achieved for everyone regardless of circumstances, our communities are stronger and safer.
FastTrack support, when life doesn’t wait
For many people, recognising the need for support is a significant step. Waiting weeks for an appointment can be the barrier that stops them from taking the next step. Northspan’s FastTrack counselling service was created for those moments when support is needed right now. Offering same-day appointments with experienced counsellors, FastTrack removes the waitlist and the hesitation that often accompanies it. Whether it’s a sudden work crisis, emotional overload, relationship strain, or simply the feeling that everything has become too much, FastTrack offers timely professional support, helping people regain perspective and stability when they need it most. It’s a practical, compassionate response to the reality of modern pressures, and one that aligns with Wingspan’s belief in early intervention and accessible care.
Professional care, human at its core
Across both Wingspan and Northspan, counselling is delivered by trained, qualified professionals who bring skill, integrity and warmth to their work. Sessions are grounded in evidence-based practice, always led with empathy and respect for each person’s story and situation. This shared clinical foundation creates continuity across services, while allowing each organisation to play its role: Wingspan as a charitable provider ensuring affordability and access, and Northspan Wellbeing as a contemporary, supporting service ensuring continued sustainability and wider reach.
Looking forward, grounded in legacy
Reaching 133 years is more than a celebration of longevity; it is a reflection of relevance – of an organisation willing to evolve while staying anchored to its purpose. From its beginnings on the streets of 19th-century Auckland to its place in today’s conversations about mental wellbeing, Wingspan has continually asked: How do we meet people where they are? Northspan Wellbeing is the latest answer to that question. As Wingspan celebrates its 133rd birthday this April, the message is reassuring and emphatic: the care continues, the values endure, and mental wellbeing support remains accessible to all – one conversation at a time.
Northspan Wellbeing 400 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 419 9853
hello@northspanwellbeing.org.nz northspanwellbeing.org.nz instagram facebook and Linkedin: @northspanwellbeing
Northspan Wellbeing, 400 Lake Road, Takapuna
A new home for music and drama
Westlaker Don McGlashan spoke about the value of arts when he officially opened our new Music and Drama Centre on Thursday, 26 February. As one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed musicians and songwriters, he spoke about how the arts build connection and curiosity and can help drive positive change.
The new $5.2 million facility, which includes our International department, three classrooms, and dedicated music and drama spaces, was opened in front of guests from across our community. Headmaster Mr Paul Fordham spoke about the significance of the centre for the school and for future generations of Westlake students. Kaumātua Jerry Norman then blessed the building before Don cut the ribbon. Guests enjoyed performances from our music and drama students before Don reflected on his own time at Westlake in
the 1970s, and the teachers who helped shape his early journey in the arts.
Don also spoke about the importance of creating and sharing our own work in New Zealand, despite being a small country. “It’s so important to make our own stuff and get it out there.” Speaking about the current political climate, he highlighted the ability of art to reduce division. “Politics thrives on labelling and dividing people. But art helps people feel more alive, more like themselves and less like a label. It helps people take the steps that bring positive change.”
He concluded by noting the role this new facility will play in nurturing future creative talent. “If this space helps young people answer that calling, then that is something to be very proud of.” The project was made possible with the generous support of the Trillian Trust, Milestone, NZCT, and Westlaker Ben Jung, who funded a new piano.
Lantern Festival brings community together
We enjoyed hosting members of our community on Monday 2 March to celebrate the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival. To start the morning, our premier barbershop quartet performed at assembly, and then Headmaster Paul Fordham spoke to our students about the Year of the Fire Horse, which is traditionally linked to fast-paced change
on both global and personal levels. He urged our students to focus on their goals for the year ahead. “It’s a good time to think about how we can embrace positive change ourselves, setting goals and taking opportunities to grow.”
Mr Fordham also spoke about the importance of diversity at our school. “We have 88 nationalities at Westlake, and our
diversity adds to our vibrancy and success. We are a reflection of our community, and we are fortunate to learn alongside people from all over the world. In the future, you will need to work with people from diverse backgrounds, and being part of a community like ours helps prepare you for that.” After assembly, our guests joined us for morning tea, a chance to chat, and a group photo.
Don McGlashan
House Haka strengthens Westlake connections
Our annual House Haka competition is a highlight on our calendar, and this year was no different, with students bringing energy and pride to the main field. Each house added its own touches while performing Te Haka o Te Kura in front of the judges and the wider school community on Friday,
6 March. Murchison, led by Senior PrefectPhoenix Naera, delivered another strong performance to claim its third consecutive win, finishing with the formation of a giant M on the field. A special moment came when Westlakers (alumni) stepped forward to perform in front of our students, before
the event closed with the entire school coming together for a whole school haka. Following the competition, Westlakers and their sons currently at the school gathered with Headmaster Paul Fordham at a special event. Thank you to everyone who came along to tautoko the competition.
Silver performance at Polyfest
Our Fijian group won a silver award in its Oceania division at Polyfest on Friday, 20 March. They performed four items on stage, with Metuisela Vakaloloma doing a great job as leader. The group brought together students from Fiji, Tonga and Samoa, as well as students from across the school who wanted to be involved. A huge vinaka vakalevu to choreographer Laisa Rasovo, the parents, staff and volunteers who supported the boys and helped celebrate Pasifika culture.
Student Leaders appointed for 2026
The 2026 Rosmini College prefect team, led by Head Boy Max Barry, has settled quickly into its role as the first term draws to a close. Elected by staff and peers for being a respected all-rounder, Max is already working to turn his vision of "brotherhood" into a reality at the college.
"I aim to strengthen not just fellowship among students, but a true sense of brotherhood – particularly between juniors and seniors," Max says. "I hope to further develop our Christ-centred school into a place where students form a genuine bond – where our boys feel connected, supported, and simply good mates to one another." Working alongside Max are:
• Deputy Head boys: Marlow Winder and Nathan Craig
• Catholic Character: David Siby
• Academic: Max Wong
• Arts & Culture: Patrick Lemeki
• Māori Leader: Kane Te Whiu
• Pasifika Leader: Matthew Poe
• Sports: Hunter Johns
From the sports fields to the classroom, this team is already proving that they aren't just leaders by title, but by action. As the year progresses, the college looks forward to seeing this team continue to inspire their fellow students.
Annual beach and sailing days welcome new students
Rosmini’s newest students dived straight into the 'Rosmini Brotherhood' with the annual beach day at Long Bay, where they tackled everything from sandcastle competitions to beach cricket, alongside their Year 13 peer support leaders. The energy continued on the water during the sailing days on Lake Pupuke, where they attempted to master windsurfing and paddleboarding. These two actionpacked days are a great way to help the 'new boys' settle into school life and form friendships through fun in the outdoors.
Lively Athletics Day fosters school spirit
Athletics Day 2026 was a massive day for the school, with students in Years 7 to 13 participating in as many events as possible to compete for house points. The track was matched by the energy on the sidelines, where house chants fuelled the competition and fostered a great sense of school spirit. Congratulations to the boys who went on to qualify and compete at the Auckland athletic champs in March. Special mention to Luke Te Tana for placing third in the Intermediate Boys shot put with a distance of 13.86m, and Jayden Modigh running his personal best time of 23.32s in the 200m Dash Intermediate, coming in fourth.
Max Barry Marlow Winder Nathan Craig
Education outside the classroom: Adventure and discovery at Carmel
From Year 8 and Year 12 camps to Level 2 and 3 sports science experiences, Carmel students are developing resilience, teamwork and real-world learning beyond the school gates. 'Education outside the classroom' is an important part of the Carmel College experience, giving students opportunities to extend their learning through real-world experiences. This year, students across several year levels stepped beyond the classroom to challenge themselves, build confidence and strengthen friendships.
YEAR 12 CAMP
From 2–6 March, Year 12 students travelled to Tongariro National Park for a week that blended outdoor adventure with immersive learning in history, media studies, biology, and geography. They tackled challenges like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and explored the Old Coach Road, all while reflecting and connecting during a thoughtful retreat.
YEAR 8 CAMP
On Tuesday 24 March, the Year 8s departed for camp at Finlay Park for three nights. It was an unforgettable adventure, where students pushed their limits, forged new friendships, and displayed incredible teamwork every step of the way.
SPORT SCIENCE - WHITEWATER RAFTING AND SURFING DAY
On Monday 16 February, Year 12 sport science students travelled to Wero Whitewater Park in Manukau to participate in whitewater rafting. The purpose of whitewater rafting was to analyse risk management strategies in a challenging outdoor activity for an internal assessment task. “...I was quite nervous but was excited to face my fears and meet my personal goal, which was to have fun and challenge myself out of my own comfort zone. As soon as we started rafting, my nervousness turned into absolute enjoyment. Our class had an
absolute blast and also achieved our class goal; to develop confidence in a new physical activity and have fun.” – Isabella Boocock
On Friday 20 February, the Year 13 sport science class travelled to Tawharanui for a surfing day. As part of an internal assessment, students reflected on the impact of the experience on their personal wellbeing and their future engagement with the activity.
Whether exploring the outdoors, working as a team, or applying scientific knowledge in practical settings, students embraced the chance to learn in new environments and create lasting memories.
Westlake Girls' Athletics Day
– a day of celebration and participation
The Westlake Girls' Athletics Day was a vibrant celebration of the school’s top athletes, strong house spirit, and the importance of participation, held at the AUT Millennium track and field stadium. Nearly 2,000 students proudly wore their House colours and took part in a wide range of track and field events, from highly competitive championship races to more social participation events. Throughout the day, students demonstrated determination, teamwork, and outstanding school spirit. The whole-school event ran smoothly thanks to the efforts of staff, student helpers, and officials, who ensured events were well organised and kept to schedule.
Many impressive performances were recorded, with several students achieving personal bests and earning valuable points for their Houses, like Miya Riseborough’s record-breaking Intermediate girls' high jump leap. The 2026 Champion titles were claimed by three exceptional athletes. Deputy Head Girl Charlotte Mawston delivered a standout all-round performance across multiple events to secure the Senior championship. Sadie Bishop dominated the track events to win the Intermediate title, and Year 9 student Kylie Lu impressed with a commanding performance on the track to to take out the Junior championship.
Building pride, connection and leadership through te ao Māori
Now just a few months into its journey, Te Puna o Hiwa-i-te-rangi (Te Puna) has become a valued and visible part of life at Westlake Girls High School. Te Puna was created to provide a safe, supportive space where ākonga can engage with tikanga and Māori concepts in everyday ways.
“It’s great to have a space to be Māori and feel proud to be Māori in a mainstream education system. To have the ability to practise waiata, haka and mihi with likeminded students. I enjoy going to form time now.” Ākonga Olivia Retimana
Te Puna has strengthened the presence of te ao Māori throughout the school. We are seeing greater confidence in the use of te reo Māori, tikanga becoming more visible in events and routines, and stronger connections between ākonga, kaiako and whānau. Most importantly, many students are developing a stronger sense of belonging and tūrangawaewae within the kura. Te Puna combines support with high expectations. Guided by manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, kaitiakitanga, and pono, it encourages students to act with care, integrity, and
responsibility while striving for success in their learning and leadership.
For ākonga, Te Puna strengthens identity and confidence. For kaiako, it deepens engagement with te ao Māori and culturally responsive practice. For our wider community, it reinforces that Māori culture sits at the heart of who we are as a kura. The foundations are now firmly in place, and the direction is clear. Te Puna strives to shape the inclusive, purposeful, and culturally grounded school we are becoming.
New Zealand Under-17 call-up for Imani Rasmussen and Katie Moors
Congratulations to Katie Moors and Imani Rasmussen on their selection to the New Zealand Under-17 basketball team. Both athletes have been standout performers for Westlake Girls High School, helping to secure a historic fourth consecutive New Zealand Secondary Schools Championship last year. Their hard work, skill, and leadership have now earned them a spot on the world stage at the FIBA Under 17 Women’s World Championship in Brno, Czech Republic, from 11–19 July 2026, where they will face elite young players from powerhouse nations including the USA, Australia, Spain, France, and Canada.
Katie and Imani are among New Zealand’s brightest rising talents. Their combination of height, rebounding, defensive impact, scoring, versatility, and leadership will be vital as they represent Aotearoa. We wish them all the best as they take their game to the world.
Katie Moors
Imani Rasmussen
Kotahitanga Day: Building bonds beyond the desk!
Kotahitanga Day proved to be a standout event for our Year 9 cohort and peer support leaders, blending high-energy excitement with meaningful growth. The day was packed with a diverse lineup of challenges that pushed students to explore new talents.
Whether it was a test of raw power or a puzzle requiring sharp logic, the variety, ranging from the grit of tug of war to the digital strategy of Minecraft, offered every student a chance to shine in their own way.
Beyond the games, the day served as a hands-on introduction to our core principles: Pride, Integrity, Respect, and Courage. Students quickly realised that victory wasn’t about individual effort, but about how well they could synchronise with their team mates. This spirit of collaboration turned daunting tasks into
shared triumphs and made the entire experience much more rewarding.
Kotahitanga Day broke down the walls of the traditional classroom, giving the Year 9s a unique space to connect. The lighthearted (and often soaking wet) nature of tasks, like the frantic struggle to plug a leaky bucket, created a low-pressure atmosphere. In these messy, joyful moments, students found it easy to spark new friendships that might never have started in a quiet hallway.
The 2026 celebration was a definitive win for our school community, cementing the importance of resilience and peer support. As the Class of 2030 carries this momentum forward, we look forward to seeing them uphold these traditions and pass this vibrant school spirit on to those who follow in their footsteps.
Lunar Festival celebration
Our Chinese and Korean student committees recently hosted our annual Lunar New Year celebration! It was wonderful to see people from all cultures enjoying traditional games and food while making the most of the beautiful weather.
Summer tennis students shine at Champ of Champs
It was an incredible outing for our tennis programme at the recent College Sport Champ of Champs, where our athletes showcased exceptional skill, grit, and sportsmanship. Facing off against some of the best talent in the region, our students rose to the occasion, bringing home an impressive haul of medals
Our junior and intermediate teams dominated the courts, securing top spots across multiple categories:
Student(s)
Hunter Pang & Shenmu (Jack) Yan
Aviva Kurtovic
Hunter Pang
Katherine (Katya) Horrocks
Yanpei (Raymond) Huang
Category
Junior Boys Doubles
Intermediate Girls Singles
Result
GOLD (Champions)
(Champion)
Junior Boys Singles SILVER (Runner Up)
Intermediate Girls Singles
Intermediate Boys Singles
SILVER (Runner Up)
SILVER (Runner Up)
Girls’ tennis titles
At the Auckland Secondary Schools’ Tennis Championships in early March, our Year 9 stars, Emily Chen and Lucy Chang, were crowned Junior Girls’ doubles champions. The duo delivered a clinical performance, storming to a 6–0, 6–1 victory over ACG Parnell.
The success didn't stop there. Lucy Chang, entering as the tournament’s number one seed, backed up her doubles title by claiming the junior singles
championship. In a repeat match-up against ACG Parnell, Lucy’s power and precision proved too much to handle, securing a 6–2, 6–2 win. Lucy’s incredible run of form has earned her a prestigious selection for the New Zealand U14 team. She will represent her country at the World Junior Tennis Championships in Malaysia this April.
Later in March, our Premier Girls’ tennis team was crowned the A2 Auckland
Secondary Schools’ champions. After a flawless 6–0 win over Diocesan School in the semi-final, the girls continued their dominant form to defeat Saint Kentigern College 6–0 in the grand final. Congratulations to Isabella Gu, Lucy Chang, Emily Chen, Cathy Deng, Elly Wen and Jessica O’Malley. This victory qualified the team for the Top eight New Zealand Secondary Schools’ teams finals, an amazing feat!
Butterfly House opening
We recently welcomed some wonderful new members to the Kristin campus: monarch caterpillars. A new wasp-proof butterfly house has been built, supported by the Kristin Korean Parents Group and the Kristin Family and Friends (KFF) Dove Seed Fund, with the team at Settlers Lifestyle Village generously providing plants, caterpillars and expertise.
Our Year 4 students blessed their arrival with a beautiful waiata and karakia, and the event was attended by all those who supported the project. Students are excited about the opportunity to see butterflies up close and
learn more about their lifecycle. This house will protect our butterflies from wasp predation, which is responsible for a 90% decline in populations this year. This project was inspired by the efforts of the Upper Waitematā Ecology Network and Jacquie at the New Zealand Butterfly and Moth Trust.
In recent years, efforts to raise monarchs away from predators, plant nettle for red admirals and promote gardens with butterfly-friendly food have grown. Kristin is excited to be part of this wider effort in our community to increase the biodiversity in the Albany Basin.
Lucy Chang and Emily Chen
Kristin Premier Girls' Tennis team
From the archives: Kristin’s Foundation Day
Foundation Day is the special occasion that unites our entire Kristin community. A collective birthday, it celebrates the unique creation of our school and the enduring philosophy that continues to guide us. Why is it so important to remember this day? Our origins tell a compelling story of overcoming impossible challenges with resilience and strength of spirit; inspiring today’s students to live out Kristin’s guiding values of 'Progress with Vision, Integrity and Love'.
Time-travel back to 1972, an election year: politics dominates New Zealand’s only tv channel. Split Enz performs their first live gig, and cholesterol runs high with a butter-heavy diet (margarine requires a doctor's prescription). Then comes the blow: St Anne’s, the North Shore independent school based in Takapuna, will close by year's end.
A small group of parents refuse to lose access to independent education for their children and unite with a bold plan. To create a family-focused school, grounded in Christian values, that will educate the whole child. In partnership with teachers and parents, students will be valued as individuals – learning how to think, not just what to think.
So the Kristin story begins: no campus, no teachers, no money – just fierce determination and a three-month deadline. With no idea how to build a school, but no time to waste, Kristin's founders leapt into action. A flurry of public and tense education board meetings followed. A temporary campus at an old abandoned Methodist Health Camp in Campbells Bay was secured. Tireless volunteer working bees ensued, transforming the site into
what would soon be a functioning school.
How do you furnish a makeshift school with no money? In true Kristin founder fashion, obstacles like these were viewed as challenges to be outthought. In an era long before TradeMe bargains, the school’s furniture and classroom supplies were scavenged from the recently closed St Anne’s and the founder’s own homes. Against all odds, the dream was becoming reality. When Kristin optimistically opened its doors in February 1973, five teachers expected at least 100 students, but only 62 showed up. Undeterred, Kristin's founders held fast to their vision. A school ahead of its time, Kristin was sometimes viewed as ‘alternative’. Old buildings, barefoot kids, bushcraft lessons, a roaming pet goat and swimming lessons just a short walk to the beach all defined its unconventional spirit.
In defiance of critics who dismissed it as merely an ‘alternative’ school, Kristin consistently upheld high academic standards. As a result, the school quickly gained popularity among Auckland parents who recognised that Kristin offered something truly unique: an education that nurtured both academic and cultural growth. By the end of 1973, enrolment had doubled to 135, and the numbers continued to climb year after year.
Today, we celebrate Kristin's enduring success by honouring our founders and reflecting on those humble beginnings. A small group of parents, driven by a dream, achieved what many thought impossible –creating the place we know and love today.
Foundation Year 1973
Kristin Foundation Day 2026
Olympic pole vaulting alumni inspire new wave of female athletes
TGS alumni and pole-vaulting stars Eliza McCartney and Imogen Ayris continue to inspire a new wave of female athletes at school. Recently selected to represent New Zealand at the World Indoor Athletics Championships in Poland, the pair’s success is encouraging for young girls forging their own path in the sport. Club nights at Takapuna Athletics Club have given younger athletes a front-row seat to high-level vaulting.
Imogen and Eliza’s visibility at training and love of the sport are motivations for Year 12 athlete Jess Lathwood and Kate O’Connell, Year 10. Both girls are coached by experienced pole vaulter Hannah Ayde. Jess took up pole vaulting two years ago after club coaches noticed her ability across long jump, high jump and hurdles.
“I had been around Imogen at Takapuna Athletics, and I knew that she was a pole vaulter and had done events like I was
doing, so I was very interested in giving it a go,” Jess said. Jess has recently won first place in the Open Girls pole vault at the Auckland Schools championships, second in the under-18 division at the New Zealand Athletics championships, fourth in the under-20 division, and second at the Auckland Athletics championships.
“It is very inspiring to watch Imogen and Eliza jump on the world stage and be at our club nights,” she said. “It makes the thought of going to the Olympics achievable, as they are normal people and have been where I am now.”
Newer to pole vault, Kate O’Connell has made an impressive start, recently breaking the under-14 pole vault record at the New Zealand Secondary School championships. “I was definitely inspired by Imogen Ayris and Eliza McCartney to try pole vault, especially knowing they both went to Takapuna Grammar School like me,”
Kate said. “I also look up to them both on a personal level and think it’s amazing how they give back by coming along to Takapuna Athletics Club nights and inspiring the next athletes coming through.”
Imogen said that hearing she inspires young girls coming through TGS is special. “It feels like yesterday I was looking up to the big girls, wishing I could be like them and copying what they do. There’s nothing more fulfilling and inspiring than to know that I’m now one of the big girls. Ten years ago, I was one of the ‘young girls’ at TGS just starting out on my journey, and I’m now an Olympian who gets to travel the world doing what I love.”
Eliza says it was an honour to be seen as a role model and encouraged young female pole vaulters to “find the joy” while embracing the challenges of the sport. “Pole vault is a difficult sport; it will challenge you, but if you love it, then you’ll be able to work through the hard times,” she said.
Grab your tickets - Legally Blonde: The Musical
Rehearsals are buzzing as the cast and crew at TGS bring 'Legally Blonde: The Musical' to life. With bold costumes, a great set and big laughs, this feel-good show follows Elle Woods as she heads to Harvard Law School (circa 2001) to prove she’s more than just a stereotype. Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and libretto by Heather Hach, the show's story arc is faithful to the original Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture. The music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin inject a whole new energy that will appeal to people of all ages. Catch the show at the Bruce Mason Centre, 5-6 May 2026. Tickets available now at ticketmaster.co.nz.
Imogen and Jess
Jess, Eliza and Kate
Jess Lathwood
Kate and Coach Hannah Ayde
A strong year underway at Albany Senior High School
From inspiring student leadership to outstanding academic success and community connection, Albany Senior High School is proud to celebrate a positive start to the year.
Student leadership in action
Albany Senior High School is proud to recognise its 2026 Head Students: Bon Bravo Kezimana, Carter Bucknell, Damia Wood, Isabella Green, Jeremy Ouwejan, Mia Woods, Nyah Ng and Natalie Osmond.
This outstanding group represents the very best of ASHS: kind, capable and grounded young people who lead with positivity, build strong relationships, and are committed to uplifting others.
Already, they are making a meaningful impact across the school, supporting ākonga, championing school values, and helping to foster a positive and inclusive culture.
Outstanding Scholarship success
Albany Senior High School is celebrating exceptional academic achievement, including its highest-ever NCEA Level 3 achievement rate of 83.4% – well above the national average.
The school is also celebrating two 2025 graduates, Kirsten Bentley and Yahya Hayat, who have each been awarded Outstanding Scholarships – one of the highest academic honours in Aotearoa. Kirsten received an Outstanding Scholarship in biology, alongside Scholarships in chemistry and physics, while Yahya achieved an Outstanding Scholarship in technology.
These achievements highlight the depth of talent and aspiration within the ASHS community.
Calling community mentors for Impact Projects
Albany Senior High School is inviting members of the community to support its innovative Impact Projects programme, held every Wednesday.
As project hubs continue to grow, the school is keen to connect with people who can share real-world experience, mentor students, and help bring learning to life beyond the classroom.
The school is particularly interested in hearing from those with experience in conservation and sustainability, as well as electronics, engineering, robotics or remote-control technologies.
No teaching experience is required, and involvement is flexible – whether that’s a one-off session, a few Wednesdays across the semester, or a more regular commitment.
Anyone interested in getting involved can contact Cristina Casey at ccasey@ashs.school.nz.
Back Row: Damia Wood, Jeremy Ouwejan
Middle Row: Carter Bucknell, Bon Bravo Kezimana, Isabella Green, Mia Woods
Front Row: Nyah Ng, Natalie Osmond
Kirsten Bentley
Yahya Hayat
Dressing like you:
Finding your style in a feed full of trends
If your TikTok feed has ever made you question your entire wardrobe, you’re not alone.
One minute it’s 'clean girl aesthetic', the next it’s 'Y2K baddie”, then suddenly everyone’s dressing like they’re in an indie film. Trends move fast, really fast, and for a lot of us, it feels like we’re constantly trying to keep up. But in a world where everyone’s copying everyone, personal style can start to feel kind of lost and not personal.
SO HOW DO YOU ACTUALLY FIND YOUR OWN STYLE?
First, stop thinking you need to fit into just one aesthetic. That’s one of the biggest myths social media pushes. You’re not a Pinterest board; you're allowed to like multiple styles at once. Some days you might want to dress minimally; other days, boldly or in a vintage style. That doesn’t make you inconsistent; it makes you human.
A good place to start is your saved posts. Scroll through what you’ve liked or saved – there’s usually a pattern. Maybe it’s baby tees, bold tones, low-rise jeans, or statement accessories. That’s your taste starting to show. The key is to build from what you like, not what’s trending.
But here’s something we don’t talk about enough: sometimes the best way to find your style is to step away from social media. When you’re constantly consuming other people’s outfits, it’s easy to lose sight of your own preferences. Try putting together outfits without checking your phone first. Pay attention to what feels comfortable, what makes you feel confident, and what you
naturally reach for in your wardrobe. That’s where your real style lives.
Look around you for inspiration instead. Friends, people on the street, old photos, and even your parents’ wardrobe.... Style existed long before algorithms. Thrifting, mixing old pieces with new ones, or reworking clothes you already own can help you create something that actually feels original.
Also, don’t underestimate trial and error. Not every outfit is going to look the way you imagined, and that’s fine. Finding your style is low key... just experiment until something clicks. Confidence doesn’t come from wearing the 'right' thing; it comes from wearing something that feels like you.
At the end of the day, style isn’t about chasing trends; it's about expressing identity. And the best part? It’s allowed to change. Because in a world full of trends, the real standout is originality.
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.
Turning empathy into action
Local charity Chefs for Compassion scales up to help more school children manage pressure
At a time when increased pressures on school-age children are on many minds, a North Shore-based charity is helping make a real difference by helping young people translate empathy into action.
Having run successful programmes at Rosmini College, Glenfield Intermediate and Crimson AGE School, and with Avondale College coming on board in 2025 as it builds its West Auckland presence, the Chefs for Compassion Trust (CfC) is pleased to welcome Northcote Intermediate this year, and has two other North Shore intermediates in the pipeline for 2027.
“The programme has had a huge impact,” says Eleanor Morfett, senior college learning coach and an English and psychology specialist at Crimson Age School. “Students have built confidence, learning what self-compassion looks like as well as how to show compassion towards others.” A Year 9 student at her school adds that the programme "helped me see how small acts of kindness can change the mood of our whole class”.
Founded in 2010, Chefs for Compassion Trust started with the simple premise of helping children draw on the power of compassion, working with students to prepare banquets for families who had overcome adversity, says Marty Smith, its founder and associate chairman. . It has since delivered more than 96 community banquets, helped 650 students complete programmes
and celebrated over 400 students at its events. Along the way, it has also won enthusiastic support from educational experts and psychologists.
A CfC programme co-leader, Professor Selina Tusitala Marsh, co-director of the University of Auckland’s Centre for Arts and Social Transformation and inaugural Commonwealth Poet Laureate, says, "It shows what happens when empathy becomes everyday leadership.”
Dr Dougal Sutherland, clinical psychologist and CEO of Umbrella Wellbeing, who has developed and co-leads CfC's Champions for Compassion programme, says its approach is based on six core compassion pillars: my compassionate heart; no blame; improve; appreciate; connect; and protect, helping young people translate empathy into practical action when tensions rise – at school, online, or at home. “It’s like strengthening compassion from the inside out,” he says.
A related pilot, the Rotary Champions for Compassion 100-day Challenge, launched on 26 March at Glenfield Intermediate with the welcome support of a Rotary Birkenhead regional grant. For 100 school days, students will practice small actions that build a stronger, kinder Glenfield.
At a time when high numbers of our school children report being bullied, one action children will learn is how to speak up safely if someone is being picked on.
Marty Smith says CfC is working for a social shift, “leaving people kind, clear and accountable, especially when under pressure. Moving from ‘Blame-battle' to 'no blame-improve’.” And, says Professor Marsh, positive change often begins with students learning to be kinder to themselves. “My gran used to say you can’t pour from an empty cup. And you can’t prepare a feast for others if you haven’t first nourished yourself. That’s where we begin with self-compassion, because tenderness towards ourselves is the wellspring for everything that follows.”
To find out more, please visit: chefsforcompassion.org.nz
CfC programme co-leader, Professor Selina Tusitala Marsh, “What happens when empathy becomes everyday leadership?”
The high price of skipping legal advice at the start (and end) of a relationship
Zara and Alex had been together for five years. They lived in a property that Alex had purchased before their relationship began. Zara and Alex shared the bills – the power, internet, groceries etc. – but Alex continued to pay the mortgage. Alex did earn a lot more than Zara and, as well as paying the mortgage, was contributing 8% to KiwiSaver. The KiwiSaver account was growing nicely. Zara hadn’t yet started a KiwiSaver account. It was just one of those things that she had never got round to. She was also enjoying having a bit of extra money with not having to pay any rent but would sometimes pay for dinner when she and Alex went out as a trade-off.
After a while Zara and Alex’s relationship began to break down. Alex was ambitious and driven, keen to purchase a rental property now that the mortgage on their home was getting manageable. Zara was a life-styler. She wanted to spend any extra money on going out or travel. This became a bit wearisome for Alex after a while and they decided to separate.
property without dealing with Zara’s claim. Alex was naturally horrified and went to get legal advice.
Because the house was in Alex’s name and Zara had made no financial contribution, there didn’t seem to be anything that they needed to sort out. Alex suggested writing an agreement between them, but Zara just didn’t see the point. She had nothing of her own, and everything Alex owned was his.
Twelve months later, Zara had a new partner, Sam. Sam had some friends who were lawyers and one night when they were out Zara told one of Sam’s friends about her relationship with Alex. Zara said that she had left the relationship, but that because the house had been Alex’s there was nothing for her anyway. The lawyer friend told Zara that because Alex’s house was considered the “family home”, Zara would have a claim for 50% of the equity in the property. They also said that Zara would be entitled to half of Alex’s KiwiSaver saved over the course of the relationship. The fact that Zara had spent all she had earned during that time was of no relevance. The lawyer friend suggested that Zara get some legal advice.
Four weeks later, Alex received a letter from Zara’s new lawyer stating that Zara was making a relationship property claim on Alex’s house and KiwiSaver. The letter asked Alex to disclose all bank accounts and investments owned at the time the relationship ended. It also said that Zara was putting a notice of claim on Alex’s property. That meant that Alex wouldn’t be able to sell or re-mortgage the
Alex’s lawyer said that as Zara and Alex weren’t married, Zara could make the claim within two years of separation and she was within that two-year window. The lawyer said that Zara’s claim was also valid and was within what the law would provide for Zara. Alex should have entered into a contracting out agreement when the relationship with Zara began, or at the very least insisted that they enter into a legally binding separation agreement at the end of the relationship, when Zara was amenable to agreeing that the property was solely Alex’s and that she had no claim.
Alex assumed the situation was straightforward because the property was in his name. However, under relationship property law, the family home and other assets can still be subject to division when a relationship ends. Taking legal advice early, both at the start and end of a relationship, can help provide clarity and avoid costly disputes later.
Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law
CRAFTED LEGAL ADVICE FOR PEACE OF MIND.
Understanding Relationship Property.
The protection of assets that we have all worked so hard to acquire is an important consideration for most people.
Income, property, KiwiSaver, intermingled inheritances and gifts from third parties are all considered relationship property when in a de facto relationship — unless both parties have entered into a Contracting Out Agreement. Without one, relationship property would be shared equally upon separation, or even the death of one party, regardless of what anyone’s will said.
Know when your relationship is considered a de facto relationship under New Zealand legislation and protect your assets with a Contracting Out Agreement. Contact our Trusts and Wealth Protection Team for specialist advice.
Equipping our tamariki for the global stage
Recently, our Kristin Junior School came alive as we celebrated the rich cultural diversity of our community through our International Day Parade and assembly. We enjoyed some super original representations of cultural influences, including some very proud Kiwis! It was wonderful to see so many of our students confidently sharing the diverse cultures and countries that have contributed to making them who they are. For some, this meant celebrating the countries where they were born; for others, it was an opportunity to honour the rich heritage of their parents and grandparents, or to share stories of places they have visited or lived in.
What does it truly mean to be a global citizen, and why does it matter? Recent events continue to reinforce the reality of globalisation and its impact on our everyday experiences. At the heart of global citizenship is identity. By helping our children develop a full understanding of all the unique influences that have shaped them, we help them build a strong sense of pride and confidence in their own cultural identity.
Crucially, this strong foundation of personal awareness enables us to teach them to develop genuine curiosity about the influences that have shaped their peers' identities. In this way, we build a culture of deep respect for one another. Our school has always been committed to a culture that empowers its community to understand and value differences, and to celebrate diversity. It is why we attract so many families with cosmopolitan backgrounds who are seeking a school where they can feel truly ‘at home’.
By helping our children develop a full understanding of all the unique influences that have shaped them, we help them build a strong sense of pride and confidence in their own cultural identity.
As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, fostering this inclusive environment is not an afterthought; it is integrated into the very fabric of our school life. A key strategy for preparing our students for global citizenship is developing the attributes contained within the Learner Profile. Every day, we actively support our students in being inquirers, open-minded, caring, communicators and reflective thinkers.
By nurturing these attributes and encouraging a deep, empathetic respect for one another, we are underpinning what it means to be truly internationally aware. Ultimately, we are equipping our young people to take their place as global citizens, confidently contributing to a better and more peaceful world for us all.
By Senior Solicitor - Maria Vergara-Oesterle. Maria
is an experienced
Trust and Estate
Planning
lawyer and offers strategic guidance on all aspects of trusts, from establishment to ongoing management, compliance, and eventual distribution or wind-up. She takes a holistic approach to estate planning, considering the unique circumstances of each client to provide tailored solutions.
Are
you a trustee? Understanding your duties and responsibilities
Family trusts are widely used in New Zealand for asset protection and estate planning. People often establish trusts to safeguard assets from risks such as business liabilities or relationship property claims, and to assist with succession planning and provide for future generations.
Many people agree to act as trustees without fully appreciating the responsibilities involved. It is common for trustees to rely heavily on professional advisers to manage trusts without realising that they themselves hold significant legal and fiduciary duties that cannot be delegated.
The Trusts Act 2019 sets out mandatory duties for trustees. These include knowing the terms of the trust, acting honestly and in good faith, and acting for the benefit of the beneficiaries. These duties cannot be excluded by the trust deed.
While professional advice from lawyers or accountants is often essential, obtaining advice does not replace a trustee’s responsibility. Trustees must consider the advice they receive and ensure decisions are properly discussed and documented.
Trustees must act unanimously when making decisions, unless the trust deed provides otherwise. Trustees cannot simply defer to one trustee or to professional advisers. Each trustee must actively participate in decisions affecting the trust.
Trustees should also be aware of potential personal liability. When acting properly in the administration of the trust, trustees are generally entitled to be indemnified out of the trust assets for liabilities incurred in their role. However, trustees who act dishonestly, engage in wilful misconduct, or are grossly negligent may be personally liable for losses suffered by the trust.
Conflicts of interest may also arise in family trusts, particularly when an individual acts as settlor, trustee, and beneficiary at the same time. While this is permitted, trustees must ensure that their personal interests do not override their fiduciary duties. Decisions must always be made in the interests of the beneficiaries as a whole.
Good trust governance requires active engagement by trustees, including regular trustee meetings, proper documentation of decisions, and periodic reviews of the trust structure to ensure it remains fit for purpose and compliant with the Trusts Act 2019.
At Schnauer & Co Lawyers, we regularly advise trustees on their duties and responsibilities, as well as on the ongoing administration and governance of trusts. Whether you are acting as a trustee, settlor, or you are a beneficiary, our team can help ensure that your trust is properly managed and continues to achieve the asset protection and succession planning objectives for which it was established.
With more than two decades of experience in accounting, tax, and strategic business advisory, Andersen Partner, Brett Mathers, works alongside business owners seeking clarity, confidence, and long-term success. This column shares perspectives for leaders navigating growth, risk and performance in New Zealand.
Understanding business risk in 2026
Anyone responsible for business performance in New Zealand will recognise the current mood: cautious, watchful, and quietly demanding.
Inflation has eased; interest rates have softened and talk of recovery is back in circulation. Yet across many organisations, confidence remains fragile. Costs are sticky and demand uneven. For leaders steering businesses through this period, 2026 feels less like a clean rebound and more like a recalibration. Geopolitical tensions and the Middle East war continue to bring global uncertainty into local operations.
Many organisations are moving through the phases of survive, revive, thrive – sometimes all three simultaneously. What differs this time is the complexity. These phases now overlap and navigating them depends less on optimism and more on discipline, visibility and flexibility.
At the centre of that conversation sits cashflow – or more specifically, working-capital headroom.
The economic backdrop leaders are operating within
New Zealand’s economic environment remains restrained. While inflation has returned to target ranges, household spending is subdued, and consumer confidence slow to recover. Operating costs continue to rise across labour, utilities, insurance, compliance and freight.
The New Zealand dollar remains weak, and insolvency practitioners forecast elevated business failures into mid-2026. For mid-sized organisations – particularly those turning over $5–$20 million – relatively small shifts in demand, cost timing or credit can disproportionately impact liquidity.
This is why 'cash is king' feels inadequate. Many businesses are profitable on paper but constrained in practice. The issue is not viability, but capacity to absorb shocks while funding growth.
The risk themes shaping decisions in 2026
Demand and margin pressure
Soft domestic demand continues to test pricing power, particularly in discretionary categories. Competitive intensity is increasing as new global entrants arrive and customers become more value driven. The second half of 2026 may bring further hesitation as electionyear uncertainty slows approvals and major purchasing decisions –although early campaign spending could provide selective uplift.
Supply-chain exposure and global volatility
Despite some stabilisation, global supply chains remain fragile. Oilrelated fragility is real. Freight disruptions, shipping cost volatility and geopolitical tension continue to influence availability and pricing. Many organisations are still holding more inventory than they would prefer, with a full return to just-in-time models some distance away. Periphery impacts – such as shipping lanes affecting urea supplied, or reduced refinery by-products flowing through to plastics and packaging – continue to present challenges. Some offshore suppliers may not survive.
People, capability and capacity constraints
Skills shortages persist, particularly in technical and specialist roles. While wage growth has been muted recently, competition for highquality talent is expected to intensify as confidence returns. Employees are increasingly weighing culture, flexibility and development alongside remuneration – shifting the nature of retention risk.
Technology, digital transition and cyber exposure
Investment in digital tools – including AI-enabled systems – is accelerating. Technology now represents both an opportunity for productivity gains and a source of risk. Cybersecurity, data protection and governance have moved firmly into board-level discussions. Those that delay adoption risk falling behind; those that rush without oversight risk exposing themselves in new ways.
Cashflow and balance-sheet resilience
Tight margins and timing gaps between profit recognition and cash receipt continue to pressure liquidity. Seasonal slowdowns, particularly around the festive period, can compound this strain. Poor debtor management remains one of the most common and least visible threats to otherwise healthy businesses, particularly as failures elsewhere create flow-on effects.
Poor
debtor management remains one of the most common and least visible threats to otherwise healthy businesses…
Why this matters beyond ownership
These pressures are not confined to shareholders. They are felt by general managers balancing growth expectations, finance leaders managing liquidity, operational heads dealing with supply uncertainty, and people leaders navigating workforce stability.
Risk in 2026 is not a single event to be manage away; it is an ongoing operating condition. The organisations that navigate it best treat risk as part of everyday decision-making – embedded into forecasting, investment, supplier relationships and people strategies.
Crucially, this does not require pessimism. It requires clarity: over cashflow, exposure, and alignment between strategy, capacity and funding.
Looking ahead
The businesses that revive and thrive over the next 12-18 months will balance ambition with realism. They will plan for growth but not assume it. They will invest with an eye on timing and return. And they will view resilience not as a defensive posture, but as a competitive advantage.
In periods like this, success rarely comes from bold moves alone. More often, it comes from consistent, informed decisions made with a clear view of risk – and the discipline to act early rather than react late.
More than accountants
Locally
Let’s plan what’s next
So much fun at Discover Pupukemoana
We had picture-perfect weather at last month’s Discover Pupukemoana 2026. Much fun was had by all, from learning to snorkel and kayak, flax weaving, creating with cardboard and potting herbs, to learning about the ecology of Lake Pupuke and its surrounding Killarney Park. To top it off, there were delicious homemade sausages and baking on offer to fundraise for plants and our youth group, Rangatahi Restore Together. Congratulations to the three lucky kayak package winners sponsored by Auckland Council’s biosecurity team. Thanks to our fantastic partners: Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, Auckland Council, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust and Fantail and Turtle.
What’s on this month:
• Care and Connect, Wednesday 8 April, 9.30-11.30am
• Stream Care, Friday 10 April, 9.30-11.30am
• Discover Lyford Reserve, Tuesday 14 April, 9.30-11.30am
• Discover Takapuna Reef, Wednesday 15 April, 11am-12.30pm. Learn about the wonderful sea creatures living on Takapuna’s shores.
• Pupukemoana Care, Sunday 19 April, 9-11am
• Rangatahi Restore Together, Sunday 19 April, 1-3pm. Keen to get outside, learn something new, make friends, and give back to the environment? Join our youth-led group at Patuone Reserve. Please BYO gloves. Spare gloves can be provided on a non-returnable basis. Please take them home and bring them with you to subsequent events.
A big thank you to Auckland Council, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board and Healthy Waters for their ongoing support. For more information and to book, scan the code, go to our website, or give us a call.
I.Lead’s Showcase Days are an opportunity to celebrate, connect, and grow our disabled youth-led movement across Aotearoa. This roadshow of events is designed to introduce new members, partners and supporters to I.Lead, while highlighting the impact, leadership and advocacy driven by disabled young people in our communities.
Each Showcase Day reflects our commitment to youth leadership, inclusion, and collective action. Whether you’re a disabled young person wanting to build confidence and create change, or an organisation wanting to better engage with disabled youth, I.Lead Showcase Days are a place to start. There will be 10 locations: Auckland on Thursday 14 May, Christchurch on Thursday 21 May, Blenheim on Monday 8 June, Whangārei on Monday 15 June, Dunedin on Friday 17 July, Tauranga on Wednesday 22 July, Invercargill on Friday 14 August, Waikato on Thursday 20 August, Manawatū on Wednesday 16 September, and lastly, Wellington on Wednesday 21 October.
Our Open Doors Day campaign was a huge success! On Tuesday 24 March, International Day for Achievers, YES Disability Resource Centre partnered with companies and organisations from around the country to encourage them to open their doors to a disabled employee for a day. A dozen youth signed up to gain experiences in a bunch of different industries, including IT, youth work, retail, hosting radio, mental health, design, and more! This allowed I.Lead members from across the motu the opportunity to enter an industry they are interested in, volunteering their time for a day. In return, these companies and organisations experienced the benefits of having disabled employees first-hand. With a focus on empowering both rangatahi whaikaha and businesses, Open your Doors Day (ODD) will be an annual initiative, proving that hiring disabled people does not have to be scary or odd.
i.Power intake two is open now! At i.Power, we believe that 'transition' shouldn't be a passive process that happens to a young person. It should be an active journey directed by them. The i.Power programme is designed to empower young adults through essential life skills, community connection, and employment readiness! Find out more by emailing ipower@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. Our next in-person meeting date is Tuesday 21 April. We now also offer online sessions! 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
Strengthening community from the inside out
Behind every strong community organisation are people doing their best to navigate governance, funding, people, and growing expectations, often with limited time and resources. At ANCAD, our focus is on strengthening that capability, so organisations are not just surviving but building for the long term.
Through LiiFT Aotearoa, we support boards, leaders, and teams with practical learning that connects directly to real challenges, from making good governance decisions and understanding legal responsibilities, to building positive team environments and measuring what matters. These sessions are designed to be immediately useful, helping organisations apply learning straight back into their work. Contact simon@ancad.org.nz for more information.
Alongside this, our community accounting programme provides hands-on support through volunteer accountants and students, helping groups strengthen financial systems, reporting, and confidence. For many organisations, this becomes a turning point, moving from uncertainty to clarity in how they manage and plan their resources. Contact ANCAD’s Eva Chen for more information at eva@ancad.org.nz.
We also continue to invest in tailored initiatives such as Talanoa Tupuaga, working alongside Pasifika communities to build leadership, capability, and connection in culturally grounded ways. Contact clark@ancad.org.nz for more information.
Strong organisations create stronger communities. When capability grows, confidence follows, and with it, the ability to respond, adapt, and lead well. ANCAD offers tailored support through consultancy opportunities. If you’re looking to strengthen your organisation this year, ANCAD is here to support that journey. For more information and how to register for any of the sessions and support provided by ANCAD, go to LiiFT.nz or contact info@ancad.org.nz with your expression of interest.
By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager
New developments and events at Sunnynook Community Centre
Term 1 has flown by, and we are now preparing for the April school holidays. We continue to have a huge waiting list and are now prioritising families that live in Sunnynook/Forrest Hill/ Totaravale.
Congratulations to English Language Partners, which has now got its own amazing venue at Windsor Park. They have been using the Sunnynook Community Centre for many years, and we wish them all the best for the future. Contact by emailing northshore@ englishlanguage.org.nz or phone 09 489 2078. We will look at restarting an English conversation class at Sunnynook Community Centre in the near future and will advertise this on Facebook and in our newsletter.
CMA North Shore has also closed its Sunnynook group and moved the participants to Glenfield or Mairangi Bay venues to help with costs associated with running the groups. You can email their office at info@cmans.org.nz if you want information about their companionship and activities for seniors. They also do assessments for Total Mobility cards – contact them by phone 09 4898954 or email manager@cmans.org.nz to book an assessor (a charge applies).
We have some exciting community events planned for the second half of 2026 and are very excited to see the progress of the new skatepark next to the basketball court in Sunnynook. This was requested before the supercity and is finally being built. We are very keen for a pump track in Sunnynook Park and hope that this can be fast-tracked, as we already have some community funding available for this project and lots of keen members of the community who would love to assist.
The next Kids' Market will hopefully take place during the July school holidays.
I would like to give a huge thanks to Debbie, Ruth and Rose for keeping the centre running smoothly while I have been on sick leave. I would also like to acknowledge the amazing care that has been provided to me by North Shore Hospital (particularly Dr Kate Rapson and her team of amazing co-workers) as I navigate my journey through breast cancer. We have ‘Look Good Feel Better’ running sessions at the Sunnynook Community Centre, and it is a real eyeopener as to how common breast cancer is. All I can say is please remember to get your mammogram when it is due or get checked out if you notice something is not right.
Our condolences to Sarah Clark’s family (local Forrest Hill residents) after the tragic accident that took place on 11 March 2026 outside the William Souter Café. Sarah worked for Windsor Park Church and was an extremely valued member of our community.
If you would like to go on the online mailing list to receive our community newsletters, please email snook.com.cen@xtra.co.nz.
LiiFT’s grant-seeking and writing workshop drew many attendees.
Takapuna’s ‘Golden Triangle’ 1958-1989
By David Verran
Until 1910, shopping in Takapuna was limited to just the Halls Corner area. From then on, the growth of the ‘golden triangle’ of Anzac Street, Lake Road and Hurstmere Road was greatly encouraged by new tram lines down Hurstmere Road past Anzac Street towards Milford, and the nearby Lake Road-based tram shed.
In the 1950s, the Takapuna Borough Council decided that the existing shopping area should be developed to meet the challenges of the forthcoming Auckland Harbour Bridge. In 1955 the council commenced planning for the provision of parking for 224 cars, the demolition of the old North Shore Transport bus sheds, and allowed consent for a two-storey department store and other shops on the triangle. In 1954, chain store Milne & Choyce opened a branch in Hurstmere Road, and both Rendell’s and Woolworth’s joined it in November 1958. MacKenzie’s menswear shop arrived a little earlier in 1958, or possibly late 1957. To allow for even more shops, planning began to move St Peter’s Anglican Church from its long-standing home in Anzac Street to the site of the old Brett homestead in Killarney Street. Takapuna was readying itself to become the leading retail area on the North Shore, with the Auckland Harbour Bridge opening on 30 May 1959. Takapuna became a fullyfledged city on 5 October 1961, with a population of 20,415.
Traffic lights came to Halls Corner in Takapuna in March 1961 and between 1960 and 1963, no less than 70 new shops and office buildings were opened along Anzac, Hurstmere, and Lake roads. By 1964, Takapuna had new branches of Hill & Stewart Ltd, Bond & Bond Ltd, Kean’s Ltd, Maple Furnishing Co, Irvin & Stern Ltd, Modern Bags Ltd and ‘Charles Begg & Co, amongst others. Ian G. Brickell became the North Shore stockist of the iconic Crown Lynn crockery and pottery, and the words Crown Lynn Tableware Centre are still visible above what was his shop at 102 Hurstmere Road.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the Takapuna central business district retained its status as the premier retail, commercial and administrative centre for the North Shore. In fact, planners projected that central Takapuna would ultimately have a workforce of 8,000 people; well up on the approximately 3,000 people who were working there in the late 1970s. Further expansion of Takapuna’s retail and entertainment outlets was
then Takapuna City, developed a series of block sheets for its Land Information Memorandum (LIM) team. The sheets cover the whole of the Takapuna area and provide a lot of information including the footprint of both individual houses and commercial buildings, and structural materials used for those buildings. They are available online on the Auckland Council archives website.
david.verran@xtra.co.nz
Takapuna City Council LIM Block Sheets, 1958-1989, TCC 002, part Number 50, (798304), courtesy Auckland Council Archives.
with Lindsay Knight
Mairangi Bay's incredible treble
Of the many fine achievements by North Harbour bowlers this season, the effort which has perhaps been the most exceptional has come from Mairangi Bay in the centre’s recent inter-club competitions.
The club achieved a remarkable treble by winning all three of North Harbour’s sevens titles: the Men’s Open, the Women’s Open and the mixed second division. For the men’s and women’s teams, that meant winning the right to represent Harbour at this month’s national playoffs in Wellington.
It was the third year in a row the women’s team has won the Harbour sevens title, a notable feat itself and, adding further lustre to both that performance and that of the men’s team, was that both titles were won in the most dramatic circumstances.
The women won an exciting final over Birkenhead, which had not only the advantage of playing at home but was coming off a narrow semi-final win over a strong Takapuna team, which had at least three players from that club’s own recent major triumph. That was in the previous week when at Mt Maunganui, Lisa Dickson, Lauren Mills and Anne Dorreen all capped their illustrious careers by being in the Takapuna four, which won in convincing fashion the national fours title.
In the winning Mairangi Bay team were Elaine McClintock, Sheryl Wellington, Jan Gledhiil, Theresa Rogers and Colleen Rice, all of whom have won multiple Harbour titles, plus two of the centre’s most promising juniors, Julie Chhour and Jodie Cottier.
Another relatively new player, Michael Thomas, emerged as the hero of the men’s Mairangi Bay team, which won a spine-tingling final over a more fancied Birkenhead, which included four current Harbour representatives, Nick Thompson, David Eades, Daymon Pierson and Brian Wilson.
After Birkenhead had comfortably won the fours from Mairangi Bay’s Leon Wech, Allan Langley, Bruce McClintock and Brian Rogers, it seemed almost certain that Birkenhead would win, particularly as it had in-form players in Thompson in the singles and Pierson and Eades in the pairs. A Birkenhead win became even more likely when Thompson jumped away to a 12-2 lead in the 21-shot game. But the slightly-built Thomas, just 31 and only a sixth-year player, made an astonishing comeback to eventually overhaul the deficit and go on to a 21-16 win. It was not a case of Thompson suddenly playing badly, but simply one of Thomas being able to go one better on the draw, even when Thompson had bowls close to the jack.
Largely unknown outside Mairangi Bay, Thomas has put work commitments ahead of his bowls and as a junior had only an occasional representative involvement. He was also a reluctant singles player, only taking up the role when Gordon Jenkins was unavailable because of injury and after he had won the club singles title 21-20 over David Payne. The latter, however, was another of Mairangi Bay’s heroes, along with Phil Chisholm, in winning the pairs from Pierson and Eades. Birkenhead seemed to have overcome Thompson’s surprise loss when coming to the last end of a thrilling pairs match,
Pierson and Eades led 18-16. But with superb draw bowls, Chisholm and Payne survived Pierson’s efforts to disrupt the head to pick up three shots and a 19-18 win, a result literally decided on the last bowl. Mairangi Bay’s depth was shown by the equally meritorious second division title win. Members of this team were several club stalwarts, Ian Coombe, Barry McCrystal, Peter Orgias, Larry Cain, Rosemary Nicol, Lorna Donald, Glenda Rountree and Judi Farkash.
bowlsnorthharbour.com
Women’s Division 1 team
Men’s Division 1 team
Mixed Division 2 team
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!).
In a muddle, with all sorts of things going on around our ears
Welcome to April, it’s a third of a way through the year. Only eight months until Christmas and don’t we find ourselves in a muddle at the moment with all sorts of things going on around our ears?
A couple of years ago, in fact back in 2023, Gill & Gundry Concrete Construction was again asked by the Restoring Takarunga Hauraki environmental group to help with one of its projects at Achilles Reserve in Devonport. We as a company have previously helped them on several occasions over the past few years, predominantly at the area adjacent to the North Shore United playing field on Lake Road Devonport. The area was full of rubbish, huge toi toi bushes, rats and all sorts of rubbish that had been tipped there over many years. We got a couple of big Hitachi diggers in there and cleaned it all out for them, saving them weeks of work as they intended to do it all by shovel and wheelbarrow. We did all this work for free as I firmly believe this environmental group are doing a fantastic job around the peninsular, growing natives in their nursery and transplanting to many projects. The whole project keeps a lot of retired people busy during the week, sharing their skills and friendships. A marvellous concept, I believe.
I also note that there has been a huge drive for constructing a new skate park in Devonport for a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars. This I believe should be looked at again.
At the Achilles Crescent project, we were asked to excavate out and stock pile a large area of hard fill so they could replant it with natives. We duly did this in good faith. I believe this was either a previous tennis court or bowling green. Auckland Council staff firmly believe that it was an old bowling site and subsequently put forward a budget of approximately $100,000 to clean up the area. This has now climbed to $220,000 since the job was authorised last September. These required works include the removal of the stockpile of base course that we were asked to leave.
The Auckland Council staff recently sought extra budget at a local board workshop saying that over $70,000 was needed for the project's professional services, leaving not enough for
the physical works to be done as planned this financial year. Local Board Chairperson Trish Deans was recently quoted in the Devonport Flagstaff saying that the group planting in this area was well meaning but it was unclear who was responsible for the 'cowboy' effort with the digger. I would like to inform Trish Deans that the 'cowboy' effort was a Gill & Gundry excavator being driven by a very experienced operator, not a cowboy. I would like a public apology from Trish Deans for referring to our staff as cowboys.
We as a company are hugely proud of our ability to help local projects and we have on numerous occasions over our 55 years of business. I refer back to the bike pump track we constructed without cost to anybody at Woodall Park. That project has taken at least five years, involving hundreds of machine hours, hundreds of man hours, thousands of dollars of material, all for free for the community. I do love going down to the pump track on a Saturday afternoon and watching the kids having so much fun.
I also note that there has been a huge drive for constructing a new skate park in Devonport for a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars. This I believe should be looked at again. Could someone tell us what is wrong with the skate park in the middle of the reclaimed area of Ngataringa Bay? Do we need to be spending a million dollars on a new skate park? I remember several years ago they built a beach volleyball facility at Woodall Park for a cost of nearly $40,000. I commented at the time that to dig the volleyball area out, fill it with sand, put up a couple of poles and a net would have been $7,500, if you were lucky. The rest was consultant fees, environmental fees, council fees etc.
Recently there was a car crash into a heritage bus stop at the top of Clifton Road, opposite the BP Clifton. Some driver, full of the joys of life, ploughed into it and took the left-hand side out of the building. I believe there have been quotes of over $100,000 to repair it. Again, this is absolute madness. The building would be lucky to be 10sqm which equates to $10,000 per square metre to repair and make good. I know one of my sons could repair that building on his own in a week using a bunch of timber from ITM. We are taken for a ride in this city at times and God knows where it is going to end. I believe Auckland Council has got a war on waste at the moment. I would like to know where this is happening.
I am so looking forward to the club rugby season in North Harbour, although I am sad to hear that a couple of the clubs are paying premier players within the club system. May I say to these clubs, and you know who you are, please desist from doing this as it will be to the detriment of your club. You cannot afford to keep paying players on an ongoing basis. You will falter and you will fall. You all know who you are. Be warned.
SERVICES ON THE SHORE
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22 Concerning importance surrounding Curie letter from abroad for Stonehenge, perhaps? (7,8)
23 Rages of Eliot initially bridging divide (6)
24 Nice thou art, to throw broadcast - they happen every week (8)
Down
2 Characteristic of Le Pen to go first? (5)
3 Issues Damon with doubts (7)
4 Bookmakers can turn out facts to order (4,11)
5 Less aged whisky finally gone by midFebruary - wasted! (7)
6 How likely are we to get a manifestation at the seance? (1,5,2,1,6)
7 Hornblower's sound I'm told to betray (3-4)
8 Reminders seem retrospective about soldiers taking on western borders (9)
13 A new donor badly depressed (2,1,6)
16 What's in forge? (7)
17 Coaster may support vessel (4-3)
18 What Alice did filled me with terror, or vice versa (7)
21 In McCartney's case, single - in ABBA's, repeated three times (5)
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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