CMAG301405-web

Sir Roger Hall Celebrating 50 years of 'Glide Time'

IN THIS ISSUE:

NORTH SHORE’S MONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR NEWS, VIEWS, EVENTS AND PEOPLE

22 , 000 Copies monthly

Distributed to homes with welcoming letterboxes in Devonport, Cheltenham, Stanley Bay, Stanley Point, Vauxhall, Narrowneck, Bayswater, Belmont, Hauraki, Takapuna, Milford, Westlake, Forrest Hill, Crown Hill, Castor Bay, Sunnynook, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay, Northcote, Birkenhead, Chatswood, Northcote Point, Birkenhead Point, Hillcrest and to businesses, shopping centres and foyer/reception areas in these areas and Shore-wide. We also have many magazine stands throughout the North Shore.

Proudly published by

AUGUST 2026 ISSUE 177

Arts & Entertainment • Out & About on the Shore • MS - Battle of the Boots NZ Blood - Donate for Life • Spend time on Father's Day • Education Updates

Accelerating success.

SHONEET CHAND & MATT PRENTICE

Featured Listings & Recent Transactions FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Quality Central Takapuna Investment

Long Term Investment - Woolworths Orewa

20 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, Auckland

3 Moenui Avenue, Orewa, Auckland

Returning $737,314 p.a. net

Dual main street frontage

1,153m² freehold site

SOLD

128 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna

Returning $1.241M p.a. net

Final lease expiry in 2081

SOLD

140-146 Sunnynook Road, Sunnynook

SOLD

Metroplitan Centre Zoning

4 Beatrice Tinsley Crescent, Rosedale

SOLD

Woolworths, Greenlane

4,089m² large-format supermarket

Significant underlying landholding

SOLD

Unit 14, 56 Apollo Drive, Albany

SOLD

387-391 Hibiscus Coast Hwy, Orewa

Over recent months, we have continued to see steady enquiry from investors and owner-occupiers seeking to secure quality industrial assets across Auckland.

While occupier demand has become more measured and vacancy levels appear to be decreasing, the industrial market remains well supported. Demand continues to be focused on quality assets in established locations, with buyers taking a longer-term view as confidence gradually returns.

This demand is reflected in the transactions completed to date, with notable sales including 320-346 Great South Road, Greenlane for $35.9 million, 128 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna for $9.25 million, and 387-391 Hibiscus Coast Highway in Orewa for $10.25 million. Leasing activity has also remained active, with recent transactions completed at 16 Cowley Place and 14 Omega Street in Rosedale.

We continue to work with a broad range of investors, occupiers and developers across Auckland, with a number of quality opportunities currently being marketed both on and off market.

Please feel free to contact Shoneet or Matt on their details below.

Licensed REAA 2008

Shoneet Chand Director | Investment Sales +64 21 400 765 shoneet.chand@colliers.com

Matt Prentice Director | Industrial Sales & Leasing +64 21 464 904 matt.prentice@colliers.com

HEALTH AND WELLBEING: WAITEMATĀ ENDOSCOPY

Heartburn isn’t always “just heartburn” Almost everyone experiences heartburn from time to time. After a large meal or a spicy dinner, that familiar burning sensation in the chest can seem like nothing more than an inconvenience.

But when reflux becomes frequent, it may be your body’s way of telling you that something more significant is happening.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the oesophagus. Common symptoms include heartburn, acid regurgitation, chest discomfort, chronic cough, hoarseness, excessive throat clearing, or a sensation of food sticking. While medications can provide excellent symptom relief, they do not always identify the underlying cause or detect damage that may already have occurred.

Long-standing reflux can lead to inflammation, narrowing of the oesophagus, or a condition called Barrett’s oesophagus, where the lining of the oesophagus changes over time. Although Barrett’s oesophagus does not usually cause additional symptoms, it is recognised as a risk factor for oesophageal cancer. Fortunately, when detected early, appropriate surveillance and treatment can significantly reduce this risk.

Not everyone with reflux requires further investigation. However, symptoms that persist despite medication, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, anaemia, or recurrent vomiting should be discussed with your GP. Depending on your individual situation, an upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) may be recommended. This simple procedure allows a specialist to examine the oesophagus and

stomach directly, diagnose the cause of symptoms, and identify problems at an early stage.

If reflux is affecting your quality of life or has become a regular part of your routine, don’t ignore it.

Speak with your GP or specialist about whether an assessment is appropriate.

A gastroscopy offers peace of mind for patients and their whānau by providing the opportunity to detect and treat important conditions before they become more serious.

At Waitematā Endoscopy, we’ve been working hard to reduce wait times, and can offer most standard Gastroscopy and Colonoscopy appointments within seven working days of receiving a referral. We accept GP, specialist, and self-referrals via our website.

Mr Suheelan Kulasegaran Upper GI, Bariatric, Laparoscopic, General Surgeon and Endoscopist Waitematā Endoscopy (09) 925 4449

are dedicated to exceptional patient care With new Specialists and increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy can provide greater access to timely and quality care.

As a Surgical Endoscopist, Mr Kulasegaran offers both medical and surgical intervention to aid with the management of reflux.

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/book WE have you covered from 'Top to Bottom' Mr Suheelan Kulasegaran

*Visit our website to find out more

Upper GI, Bariatric, Laparoscopic General Surgeon & Endoscopist

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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ANDREW DORREEN

SEAWARD-SIDE LIVING AT ITS FINEST 23 MURITAI ROAD, MILFORD Positioned on one of Milford's most tightly held seaward-side streets, just moments from Milford Beach, 23 Muritai Road presents a rare opportunity to secure a substantial near-new architectural residence that perfectly balances family functionality with effortless coastal living.

Designed by renowned Auckland architect Alan Shanahan, this beautifully crafted 350sqm home has been thoughtfully configured to maximise natural light, privacy and year-round entertaining. Every aspect of the design has been considered, creating a home that is equally suited to growing families, professionals or those seeking a future-proofed layout without compromising on luxury.

A striking double-height entrance immediately sets the tone, leading to expansive ground-floor living where generous proportions and seamless indoor-outdoor flow define the home. Two separate living areas provide excellent flexibility, with a dedicated large media room featuring a gas fireplace opening through to covered outdoor entertaining beneath a louvre roof. Alongside the open-plan living, dining and designer kitchen extend effortlessly to a sun-soaked patio and level landscaped lawn, complete with a swim spa, creating an exceptional setting for entertaining, relaxing and enjoying Milford's renowned outdoor lifestyle.

Large-format tiled flooring enhances the sense of scale throughout the living areas, while ducted heating across both levels and underfloor heating in the bathrooms provide exceptional comfort in every season.

One of the home's standout features is its intelligent floor plan. A generous ground-floor bedroom, currently set up as an office, enjoys excellent late sun and direct outdoor connection, making it equally ideal as a work-from-home office, guest accommodation or fourth bedroom. Serviced by a beautifully appointed full bathroom, the layout also provides the option of single-level living in the future if required.

Upstairs, accommodation is exceptional. Three generous bedroom suites each enjoy their own walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, an increasingly rare feature that offers privacy and independence for family members or guests.

The master suite is an exceptionally spacious retreat, complete with a sitting area and a glimpse of the sea and Rangitoto Island.

Positioned two back from Milford Beach, an easy stroll to Milford Village, boutique shopping, cafés and restaurants, this is a home that delivers an exceptional lifestyle every day. Combining architectural pedigree, premium finishes, a superb family layout and an unbeatable coastal location, 23 Muritai Road represents one of Milford's finest seaward side opportunities.

Andrew Dorreen / Precision Real Estate Ltd MREINZ Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008 Email: andrew@precision.net.nz / precision.net.nz / andrewdorreen.com

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Phone: 021 747 334 Over $1.6B Billion total sales

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

ANDREW DORREEN

MILFORD'S ULTIMATE BEACHFRONT RESIDENCE 29 CECIL ROAD, MILFORD Positioned on one of Milford Beach's most coveted stretches of absolute beachfront, 29 Cecil Road presents a truly rare opportunity to secure one of Auckland's premier coastal homes. Occupying a superb due north position with no western neighbour, this remarkable residence combines exceptional scale, outstanding privacy and direct sand frontage in a package that is seldom available and will suit a large family.

Constructed from solid concrete block and spanning more than 500sqm, this substantial residence has been built to endure. Recently renovated to an exceptional standard and internally meticulously maintained throughout, it offers the perfect balance of timeless construction and contemporary luxury, allowing the next owners to simply move in and enjoy.

From the moment you arrive, the home makes a lasting impression. A dramatic double-height foyer and sweeping staircase create a grand sense of arrival. The generous layout has been thoughtfully designed to maximise both family living and effortless entertaining.

The beautifully renovated kitchen forms the centrepiece of the home.

Completed approximately three years ago, it features a substantial island, premium appliances, a large butler's pantry and exceptional workspace, flowing effortlessly into the dining and living areas. Large doors connect

seamlessly to an elevated beachfront terrace, capturing magnificent views while maintaining excellent privacy and shelter.

A separate western lounge provides a wonderful retreat to enjoy the afternoon sun before opening onto a generous entertaining patio complete with a heated lap pool. The absence of a western neighbour allows natural light to flood the living spaces from morning until evening while creating a level of privacy rarely found on beachfront properties.

The outlook is simply breathtaking. Watch boats enter Milford Marina while enjoying panoramic views stretching across the Hauraki Gulf to Castor Bay, Whangaparāoa Peninsula, Rangitoto Island and, on clear days, Great Barrier Island.

Accommodation is equally impressive, comprising five generous double bedrooms, each with its own beautifully appointed ensuite. This is an exceptionally rare feature in homes of this calibre, providing true comfort and independence for family and guests alike. A large ensuite bedroom on the ground floor, currently utilised as a home office, offers outstanding flexibility for multigenerational living or visiting guests.

Upstairs, the luxurious master suite is a true sanctuary, featuring an expansive bedroom, lavish ensuite with a separate WC, walk-in wardrobe and private balcony overlooking the Hauraki Gulf.

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.

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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CONTENTS 62

42

30

Features 16 28 30 32 42 58 62 66 80 96

Sir Roger Hall: Celebrating 50 years of 'Glide Time' Shop the Shore Spend time on Father's Day Gramworthy Q&A: Gardens, homes and DIY in winter NZ Blood - Donate for Life MS - Battle of the Boots Channel Youth North Shore History: David Verran The Channel Crossword

Out & About 07

Out & About on the Shore

Eating Out 20

Eating Out Guide

Takapuna Beach 26

Takapuna News

16 Devonport Devonport News

79

Arts 14 18

18 19

Auckland Philharmonia DEPOT

The Vic Devonport The PumpHouse

Milford 54

Education 64

Birkenhead College

67

Carmel College

68

Westlake Girls’ High School

70

Rangitoto College

72

Rosmini College

73

Takapuna Grammar

74

Kristin School

76

Westlake Boys’ High School

Milford News

Visit Us In-store!

CURTAINS | BLINDS | SHUTTERS | ACCESSORIES

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

8b Link Drive, Wairau Valley, Auckland 0627 OR 86 Lunn Ave, Mt Wellington, Auckland 1072

harveyfurnishings.co.nz harveyfurnishings

From the Editor

BAYLEYS NORTH SHORE

NO. 1

COMMERCIAL

AGENT 2017-2026

Aidan Bennett, Liz Cannon, Kim McIntosh, Klaudia Wal, Crystal Sharp

Excitement for August!

As I write this in late July, I’m eagerly looking forward to August. Yes, we’ve produced another fantastic monthly issue – but my excitement pertains to the trip Michelle and I will be embarking on to South Africa. A chance for us to tick a couple of things off our bucket list. To follow the mighty All Blacks on tour and visit some game parks. Exciting times!

Our Benefitz Channel Mag team has turned out an exceptional issue for August 2026, led by Liz Cannon’s cover feature on Sir Roger Hall, who is celebrating 50 years of 'Glide Time' in 2026. It was on 11 August 1976 that a new Kiwi play opened at Circa Theatre in Wellington. Liz’s feature is timely in advance of Phoenix Theatre's production of 'Glide Time' at the PumpHouse from 18 September to 2 October.

Paula Arblaster gets us ready for Father's Day on Sunday 6 September. Paula’s Father’s Day feature provides some great ideas on how you can celebrate these special men in our lives.

We also highlight Bayleys Real Estate’s investment in a new purpose-designed North Shore headquarters in central Takapuna.

This new facility is great for Taka and brings Bayleys North Shore commercial, industrial and residential teams together on one site. The strongest businesses invest with a long-term view, recognising that the quality of their people, workplaces, and client experience ultimately shapes their competitive advantage. Well done, Bayleys.

Christine Young talks to two Shore blood donors who have each clocked up an impressive number of donations, and finds the process is both straightforward and rewarding. North Shore Hospital used 5,000 units of red blood cells in the past year, along with hundreds of units of other blood products, such as platelets, plasma and plasma-derived products, in lifesaving and life-preserving procedures. All that blood is donated. Red blood cells only have a shelf life of 35 days, so constant replenishment is vital.

For our Q&A feature this month, the theme is ‘Gardens, Homes and DIY in Winter’.

We chat with four Shore people who are professionals in their particular fields and are well qualified to provide interesting advice for our readers.

As a team, we love putting together our popular regular features in the magazine.

Our ‘Out & About’ photo pages have been an integral part of every issue over 16 years, as has our ‘Eating, Drinking & Dining on the Shore’ guide. It is important that we support our local hospo businesses as it’s a tough gig right now.

All this and more in your FREE Channel Mag! Have a great August – go the mighty ABs! Aidan Bennett, QSM Publisher, Channel Magazine Founder and Managing Director, Benefitz aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Publisher

Aidan Bennett 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Advertising/Editorial

Liz Cannon 021 204 3395 liz@channelmag.co.nz

Advertising/Content

Kim McIntosh 021 419 468 kim@channelmag.co.nz

Designer

Crystal Sharp crystal@benefitz.co.nz

Online and Social Media

Klaudia Wal klaudia@benefitz.co.nz

MATT MIMMACK 021 229 5878

matt.mimmack@bayleys.co.nz

Director and Shareholder Call for an updated market appraisal COMMERCIAL NORTH SHORE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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.

The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise – without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies & manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Feature | Paula's Finds

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 Paula's enthusiasm for finding interesting happenings around the North Shore.

Trish Day NEW HOME CONSULTANT

027 561 6556 trishday@signature.co.nz

Do you have a section sitting ready?

Whether you’re planning a design and build from the ground up, or your current place is ready for a knockdown and rebuild, I’ll help you get the most out of your land.

DESIGNED FOR FUN Cairnbrae Reserve playground, at 48 Topliss Drive, Northcross, has been recently renovated with a new shade sail, updated and more interesting play equipment, better surfacing, and new plants and landscaping. It’s giving local kids more reason to head out for active fun.

ART AND INSPIRATION As part of DEPOT's 30th anniversary programme for 2026, DEPOT Artspace presents 'Paintress', a solo exhibition by artist Jessica Pearless.

Through carefully constructed surfaces, spatial interventions and textile-based works, 'Paintress' considers painting as an embodied act of making.

The exhibition's title reclaims the historic term 'paintress' once used to distinguish women painters, transforming it into a contemporary declaration of artistic agency. 22 August – 3 October. Admission: Free. DEPOT Artspace, 28 Clarence Street, Devonport. depot.org.nz

CRAVING GREAT SHOPPING I’m so excited to find one of my favourite gift and homewares stores has recently opened a second location in Milford, a companion to the original store in Birkenhead.

Cravehome is packed with elegant and beautiful pieces that you’ll love to own or give as a gift. From must-have accessories, gorgeous baby clothes and toys, candles, lotions and sweet scents, through to those artistic homeware pieces that add a designer's touch to your home. Weekdays 9.30am – 5.30pm, Saturday 9.30am – 4.30pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm.

150 Kitchener Road, Milford. cravehome.co.nz THE MOST SCENIC MARATHON North Shore Marathon is possibly New Zealand's most scenic marathon with sections along Milford, Takapuna and Cheltenham beaches and a circuit around historic Maungauika/ North Head. It’s on again on the first Sunday in September, which is also Father's Day! Options include marathon, half-marathon, quarter marathon, 5kms or kids mile. Sunday 6 September.

Register to run at northshoremarathon.co.nz.

Let’s start the conversation.

Scan to start your new home journey!

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AUTHENTIC BBQ Smokeland BBQ has brought its “low and slow” cooking to the North Shore with its latest smokehouse restaurant opening in Belmont. They use real fire and wood smoke to make you those melt-in-your-mouth smoky flavours. Whether you’re craving brisket or ribs, pulled pork, burgers or loaded fries, they have you covered. Open Wednesday-Monday, 11.30am – 8.30pm, 131 Lake Road, Belmont. smokelandbbqbelmont.co.nz

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

RELEASE THE STRESS Stress Be Gone, a Westlake Girls Y13 business studies group, has some great ideas to relieve pressure during challenging times. Their Stress Relief Kit is designed to help you relax and recharge with a stress ball, a fidget toy keychain, joke cards to lighten up your day, and textured pencils for comfort while writing. Prettily packaged, the kits cost $12, and while originally conceived for busy students, they can support wellbeing for anyone. Contact them on Instagram to order or enquire: @_stress_be_gone

Out & About | On the Shore

RESIDENTIAL & WATERFRONT SPECIALIST

Community support for historic Takapuna Boating Clubhouse restoration Around 50 local residents gathered at Belmont Racquets Club on Thursday 23 July to hear about plans to restore the historic Bayswater clubhouse. Takapuna Boating Club Commodore Wendy Baker shared the building’s history, outlined the restoration work required, and presented the vision for its future. Guests also heard the findings of a recent community survey, revealing what locals would like the restored clubhouse to offer. A lively Q&A session followed, along with refreshments and opportunities to meet restoration committee members and neighbours.

The evening highlighted the strong community support for preserving and revitalising this much-loved local landmark.

021 937 470 libby.greenwood@bayleys.co.nz

Currently seeing Lowest level of Listings On North Shore for sometime Alasdiar Tarry, Wendy Baker, Greg Boland, Sally Marchant, Emelia Lake and Nicole DeSonier-Agnew

Thinking of selling?

Make the most of The active buyers With Less Competition.

High Visibility.

A great time to bring your home to market.

Sonja Austin and Brianna Parkinson

Ray Welson, Wendy Baker and Alasdiar Tarry

Contact Libby today

Residential Hayden Adams, Robert Nicholls and Lachlan Trembath

Eva McLean and Nate Hallman

BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, TAKAPUNA, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Out & About | On the Shore

BEN Breakfast: Insights for New Zealand’s future North Shore business leaders gathered at Regatta Bar & Eatery in Takapuna on Tuesday 28 July for a thought-provoking Business Excellence Network (BEN) Breakfast featuring David Schnauer, co-founder of Schnauer and Co and one of the original founders of the BEN Breakfast series. Drawing on decades of experience in law, economics and business leadership, David shared perspectives from his new book examining New Zealand’s economic performance and the challenges and opportunities ahead. The event sparked lively discussion around the key issues likely to influence the 2026 election cycle, while providing valuable networking opportunities in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Andy Ruzich, Murray Lockwood, David Schnauer, Darren Bird, Geoff Wilson, John Javier, Andy Brown, Ali Dymond and Erin Marmont

Sarah Lowe and Ali Dymond

John Berry, John Cobb, David Edlington and Wade Downey

David and Trish Schnuauer, Ali Dymond and Murray Lockwood Marcus and Sue Kohn-Taylor, Amanda Billington, Sarah Lowe and Glenn Read

John Bailey, Liam Robertson and Eloise Smit

Nina Bowden and Andy Brown

Chris Booth, Sharon Boyd and Nick Farrelly

Craig Offwood and Mark and Claire Talbot

Addie Wang, Grace Wee, Haydn Wood, Scott Garratt and James Doyle

A retail experience, for aging adults Livewell is a modern store with stylish, practical solutions that support independence at home.

Come Visit Us 12/2 Tawa Drive, Albany, Auckland 09 869 6760 | hello@livewell.co.nz

Wheelchairs | Mobility Scooters | Walking Aids | Bathing Aids | Daily Living | Home Safety

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

Out & About | On the Shore

WIN an Escape in Luxury

Mary-Lee Sale, James Bratton, Su Mobley and Wendy Calder

Celebrating great design at Moxie Calder Interiors and Barfoot & Thompson Birkenhead hosted another successful Architectural Movie Night at Moxie Restaurant in Birkenhead Point. Guests enjoyed presentations from architectural designer Cameron Aitken, who showcased a selection of stunning residential projects from Mangawhai, Birkenhead Point, Castor Bay and Mangawhai Sands. Adrienne Joyce followed with an entertaining look at Harry the House, the charming children’s book inspired by the real-life journey of a relocated St Heliers home to Mangawhai. The evening’s feature film explored the design and construction of world-renowned golf courses Te Arai and Tara Iti. Proceeds supported planting at Brassey Road Reserve, before guests enjoyed a memorable dinner by James and Amy Bratton.

Jesse Sale and Elias Williams

Sonia Bolger and Wendy East

Averil and John Ryan

Four nights and premium trackside hospitality at the 2027 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.

Book your appraisal by 31 August to be in to win.* Tony and Judy Easton

Jane and Lloyd Macomber

Blake Allnutt Wendy Calder, Cameron Aitken and Su Mobley

Bruce and Tina Pratt, Barbara Wright

M +64 27 21 48 173 blake.allnutt@nzsir.com

Rosemary Erlam and Julia Gatley

Chris and Carole Fraser

* Terms and conditions apply.

View at nzsothebysrealty.com/escapeinluxury Each office is independently owned and operated.

Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Out & About | On the Shore

From Noteworthy, with love The PumpHouse Theatre was positively brimming with excitement on the evening of Friday 3 July. A total sell-out concert, Noteworthy Choir delivered an exceptional evening comprising a symphony of stories, sung in the language of love, where every note told a story and every voice contributed to a larger, heartfelt narrative. Over 200 audience members loved the immersive musical journey that explored many beautiful facets of the human heart through the power of collective song. Inspired to sing? Join Noteworthy Choir in Devonport or Orewa, and be part of the wonderful world of music and song! Find out about upcoming concerts and feel-good vibes on FB and Insta @noteworthychoirnz

Kelly Maire, Sharon Zollner, Liz Cannon and Rixt Brownlow

Dorothee Ecke, Adrian Greshoff, Mo Cameron and Emma MackieWatts (Back: Ruben McMenamin and Aria Duncan)

Dorothee Ecke, Jamie Everett and Kirstie Hilke

Sarah Christie, Dorothee Ecke and Laura Scarlett

Rixt Brownlow, Lauren Smith, Maureen Merrick and Sarah Christie

Sava Wolfgram, Joanne Fae, Mikayla Exton, Nevaeh Apineru, Chloe Jane (Director), Kendall Wright, Hayden Ruka, Zara Ruddock and Freya Wall

El Mann, Stella Moughan, Rebecca Davidson, Rachel Longstaff, Christine Cronin, Carmel Barnao, Jane Messer and Amanda Hillon

Frances Parkinson, Heidi Baker, Dorothee Ecke, Xanthoula Mich, Mel Roberts, Tina Frantzen and Kaitlyn Chandler

Dorothee Ecke, Anna Rawhiti-Connell, Rachel Longstaff and Rebecca Davidson

Rixt Brownlow, Adrian Greshoff, Dorothee Ecke, Mo Cameron and Emma Mackie-Watts

FIND YOUR VOICE. FIND YOUR PEOPLE. Sing the MUSIC YOU LOVE NON-AUDITIONED branches in DEVONPORT and OREWA Perform with a LIVE BAND EMAIL US TO SECURE YOUR SPOT!

noteworthychoirnz@gmail.com

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

In your little part of the big city Find your new home in one of our 11 villages across Auckland, from Orewa to Pukekohe.

Call 0800 000 290 or visit ryman.co.nz

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Little steps towards a wholehearted future.

Nestled in the grounds of Kristin School, Little Doves Early Learning Centre is a haven for exploration, learning and play for our youngest children, aged 6 months to 4 years.

To book a tour or for more information, visit littledoves.nz

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

Out & About | On the Shore

Casey Jenkins, Thomas Madigan, Owen Roberts, Nikau Moses, Ari Tipler and Max Jaakola

Matariki Kapa Haka festival Hosted by Murrays Bay Primary School, local students came together on Thursday 2 July to celebrate te ao Māori at the annual Matariki Kapa Haka festival. Through waiata, haka and cultural performances, tamariki proudly represented their schools while strengthening connections to their culture, identity and language, with opportunities to engage with te ao Māori and experience positive cultural role models. The event highlighted the importance of integrating Māori cultural practices and fostering whanaungatanga, and was a wonderful celebration of connection, community and Matariki.

Beatrice Muir-Bailey and Penelope Sadler

Better with Bayleys

Carter Tana

Lihan Luts, Oliver Xiao, Evan Meng and Oscar Burt

Violet Cooper Ross, Katie Hoffman and Mikayla Gooltawat

Chelsea Docking Residential Sales 021 196 5373

chelsea.docking@bayleys.co.nz

MJ Manalo, Lulu Zhao, Charlie Thornton, Otylia Jiang and Havana Brown

Jade Huang, Katie Hoffman, Sophia Peng, Capri Harold and Sophie Field

BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, TAKAPUNA, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Takapuna local, Chelsea combines powerful digital marketing savvy with sharp real estate expertise and with over $20m in sales last year, she’s the name clients trust.

Laurence Jiang and Clark Wu

Nina McMennamin, Kenzi Prout, Georgia Murray and Emma Stuart

Deia Herzog and Ava McDonald

“Working with her was a pleasure, from the presentation of a professional marketing concept, preparation of the advertising, to closing the deal. She is an excellent and enthusiastic communicator.”

Seller, 19/47 The Strand

Residential Lena Sowerby, Dawon Moon, Brooke Lanning and Amaia Randall

Brooke Lanning, Amaia Randall, Elsa Feng and Mia Yu

BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, TAKAPUNA, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: AUCKLAND PHILHARMONIA

Prehistoric TV pals join Auckland Philharmonia in new children's show Gather your mini music-lovers and preschool palaeontologists and head to Auckland Philharmonia’s 'Kiri and Lou in Concert', a fun-filled interactive show that brings children's TV series 'Kiri and Lou' to the big screen with a live orchestra. With just two performances in Takapuna’s Bruce Mason Theatre on 22 August, don’t miss this dino-tastic gig the whole whānau will dig!

Beloved by tamariki across the motu, 'Kiri and Lou' is an awardwinning New Zealand-made animated series that follows the adventures of two prehistoric creatures, Kiri (voiced by Liv Tennet) and her friend Lou (voiced by Jemaine Clement), in an Aotearoa forest as they explore the world of feelings through laughter, song and play. Through a combination of quirky humour, original songs and emotional intelligence, the series explores friendship, empathy, selfexpression and childhood emotions.

Auckland Phil’s production of 'Kiri and Lou in Concert' features the orchestra performing a selection of delightful songs written by Don McGlashan and Harry Sinclair, reimagined for orchestra, alongside stunning stop-motion visuals from the 'Kiri and Lou' episodes. Tamariki will love this uplifting concert, presented by Liv Tennet, that’s packed full of seriously singalong tunes, such as ‘Yum Yum Baronies’ and ‘Kiri and Lou’ish’, plus magical track ‘Shine Your Light’ and dance-along fun ‘Hoobie Hoobie’.

'Kiri and Lou in Concert' is a collaborative endeavour between Auckland Philharmonia, Orchestra Wellington, Dunedin Symphony

Saturday 22 August

'Kiri and Lou in Concert' is an enchanting show that preschool and primary-aged tamariki, and their grown-ups, will remember for years to come. Join the fun and book now at aucklandphil.nz Kiri and Lou in Concert 11am and 2pm, Sat 22 August Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Recommended for ages 3 and above.

Bruce Mason Centre

Time to have fun!

PRESENTER Liv Tennet

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Orchestra and Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, delivered in partnership with Stretchy. Auckland Philharmonia’s performances of this concert are delivered thanks to the orchestra’s core funders Creative New Zwaland, Auckland Council and Foundation North, and the generous support of the Stout Trust proudly managed by Perpetual Guardian, and Auckland Live.

Esther Stephens, producer of 'Kiri and Lou in Concert' and Auckland Philharmonia’s artistic administrator, says, “It’s been so exciting to create a brand-new orchestral concert with these beloved characters and songs, and share this work with our partner orchestras so that tamariki across Aotearoa can enjoy the thrill of live orchestral performance with the magic of 'Kiri and Lou'. This concert celebrates local artistic excellence in multiple creative industries, and we can’t wait for Auckland whānau to experience this wonderful homegrown production.”

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Feature | Sir Roger Hall

Sir Roger Hall

50 years of 'Glide Time' and a lifetime of laughter

By Liz Cannon

Sir Roger Hall

Sir Roger and his wife, Dianne, recently hosted Channel Mag’s Liz Cannon in their beautiful home overlooking Takapuna Beach. With the walls adorned with fine art, it felt like an afternoon in an intimate gallery. Seated in the inner sanctum of his beloved home office, Liz chatted with Sir Roger about his recollections of 'Glide Time' and the excitement surrounding its fiftieth anniversary revival.

On 11 August 1976, a new Kiwi play opened at Circa Theatre in Wellington.

Rather than being set in a traditional English drawing room or with a Shakespearean landscape backdrop, it was set inside a common-or-garden Kiwi government office, complete with filing cabinets, fluorescent lighting and the familiar rhythms of public service life. That play was 'Glide Time'. Its writer, Sir Roger Hall, went on to become the most prolific and successful playwright in New Zealand history.

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Written at a time when contemporary, local stories were still carving out a place on New Zealand stages, 'Glide Time' broke new ground. A reference to the flexible work schedule enjoyed by government sector workers, 'Glide Time' was a sharp, funny satire of the public service, inspired by Sir Roger’s own experience working within the education, insurance and government sectors. Fifty years on, it’s widely regarded as a defining moment in New Zealand theatre – the point at which Kiwi audiences truly began to see themselves reflected on stage, with truth, humour and a healthy disregard for local government culture.

Wellington in 1959 was Sir Roger’s initial Kiwi stomping ground. As a newly arrived 19-year-old originally from Pinner in northwest London, his ambition was to write sitcoms for the BBC. He sent a London-based agent a 30-minute comedy script, which received a scathing response.

Undeterred, an early turning point came when he received a travel grant requiring time in the USA. Robert Lord (1945–1992), recognised as one of New Zealand’s first professional playwrights, insisted he attend the highly regarded Eugene O’Neill Memorial Playwrights Workshop. Sir Roger recalls the experience, saying, “A few of the plays being workshopped weren’t any good at all.”

Chuckling, he adds, “I thought I could write a far better play than the ones I was seeing.”

So, he sat down to write one set in a Kiwi public service office, focusing on authentic, funny dialogue between the 'working hard/ hardly working' banter of relatable characters. Over several weeks and many drafts, the play, originally and ironically titled ‘Hard Day at the Office’, took shape and became 'Glide Time'. Asked about whether he expected Sir Roger Hall and the Governor General, 2019 such immediate

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

success, Sir Roger says simply, 'Yes. Most Kiwi plays back then were about New Zealand history, and had nothing to do with the present. It just took off straight away."

A PLAY THAT CHANGED THE KIWI STAGE When 'Glide Time' premiered in 1976, it struck a Kiwi chord instantly. Set in the stores branch of a Wellington government department, it captured with razor-sharp wit the small frustrations, quiet ambitions and human quirks of office life. Its authenticity set it apart. Sir Roger was writing what he knew, and what many others recognised. At the time, the public service shaped the working lives of thousands across the country. The result was a work that reflected not just a workplace, but a culture, and the response was immediate.

Pride of place on Sir Roger's study wall is the framed original ticket sales sheet from opening night. The premiere, performed at Circa Theatre on Wednesday 11 August 1976, was a complete and unexpected sellout, with “Full house!” scrawled across the sales sheet, and a waiting list for tickets exceeding one thousand. Sir Roger recalls the evening clearly, describing how the audience reacted as they entered. “People came into the theatre and started laughing before the play even began. They recognised what they were seeing on stage, and they loved it.” That shock of recognition became central to the play’s success,

'Glide Time' opening night bookings, 11 August 1976

Programme from the original 'Glide Time' production, 11 August 1976

proving that everyday Kiwi life was worthy of the stage. "A full house was quite something back in those days," Sir Roger reminisces.

"It changed live theatre by opening up local theatre to normal, everyday people."

The production quickly outgrew its original one-hundred-seat venue and transferred to larger theatres, drawing thousands. It wasn’t just a hit; it marked a cultural turning point.

Audiences wanted stories reflecting their own lives – their workplaces, relationships and realities – rather than imported narratives.

From that moment, Sir Roger Hall’s career took off.

FROM STAGE TO NATIONAL ICON 'Glide Time' soon evolved beyond the stage.

First came a radio version, then a television adaptation, and ultimately the TV show, 'Gliding On' (1981–1985); in a pre-streaming era, it became New Zealand's most successful locally produced sitcom. Running for five seasons, the hugely popular series expanded its familiar cast (Jim, Beryl, John, Hugh, Michael, Wally and ‘The Boss’) into a national institution, capturing everyday working life with affectionate but sharp observation. “Almost everyone was a public servant in the 1970s,” Sir Roger says, reflecting on the era. That shared experience helped it resonate deeply.

The humour was gentle but incisive, poking fun at bureaucracy while still celebrating the humanity within it; a balance that became the Roger Hall hallmark.

Across his work, he has explored themes that shape everyday lives: marriage, work, ambition and ageing, through characters who are flawed, funny and deeply human. Asked how he achieved this, he says, “Well, I could write funny lines. I knew what would work.”

Prompted further, he reflects, “I don’t know.

Maybe being brought up in a class-ridden UK, where one did keenly observe others’ behaviours and the way they spoke. But New Zealand wasn't so class-conscious. It was great to move away from such innate class consciousness.”

Over the decades, Sir Roger built an extraordinary body of work: more than 40 plays, alongside television, film, books and pantomime. His ability to capture New

The orginal 'Glide Time' script, 1976

Zealand life with wit and honesty became his signature. His second play, 'Middle-Age Spread', cemented his reputation, going on to a successful West End run and major awards, proving that stories rooted in Kiwi life could travel. His achievements were formally recognised in 2019 when he was made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM). He is the first New Zealand playwright to be knighted, following earlier honours including a QSO (1987) and CNZM (2003). Beyond his writing, he has been a passionate advocate for theatre, including helping establish New Zealand Theatre Month and serving as the Patron of the PumpHouse Theatre. When asked about his greatest achievement during his illustrious career, Sir Roger states, "Converting Kiwi audiences to New Zealand plays."

It changed live theatre by opening up local theatre to normal, everyday people

WHY GLIDE TIME STILL RESONATES Fast forward fifty years, and the North Shore is preparing to celebrate this milestone moment with Phoenix Theatre bringing 'Glide Time' back to the stage at the PumpHouse Theatre, just minutes from where Sir Roger now looks out across Takapuna Beach.

Although a man of prolific written words, he is sparing but precise in his spoken words.

Asked about how he feels about his first play being revived so close to home, he says simply, “It means a lot.” Encouraged to elaborate further, with a rare but warm smile, he adds, “I’m enormously flattered… I’m really thrilled.”

Curious about how 'Glide Time' will land with modern audiences, he has already bought himself and his family tickets to the opening night at the PumpHouse on 18 September.

“Things have changed enormously. That’s

The TV show, 'Gliding On' (1981-85)

what I’m going to find so interesting… what a contemporary audience will get out of it.

I hope they'll still laugh!” Workplaces may look different today, but something more fundamental endures. “The companionship is very important… that human connection.”

That thread gives Glide Time its lasting appeal. Beneath the satire are characters navigating relationships, responsibilities and identity. Take Beryl, the lone female role; a quietly poignant figure representing a generation shaped by different expectations.

“They’re still good characters,” Sir Roger says.

“They’re all quite different.”

Today, the fiftieth anniversary feels especially meaningful here on the North Shore. Sir Roger has lived locally for many years, and his connection to Takapuna’s PumpHouse Theatre runs deep. The venue, a not-for-profit community theatre on Lake Pupuke, is a cornerstone of the local arts scene. “It's a huge asset for the North Shore.

It’s often booked every night,” he notes. “That shows what demand there is. There is a huge North Shore audience, which Auckland city theatres are foolish to ignore." While acknowledging the challenges theatre has faced, particularly post-Covid, he remains optimistic. “There’s something different about theatre,” he says. “Each night… It’s always slightly different.”

As 'Glide Time' returns to the stage, there is a sense of something coming full circle: a play born from everyday life in 1970s New Zealand rediscovered by a new generation, in a theatre just minutes from the playwright’s home. For Sir Roger, there is one lingering question: Will it still resonate? His answer is a characteristically understated, “I hope so.”

And so, what’s next? “Alas, the muse seems to have deserted me. Recent attempts to write a new play have come to a very quick halt. But after fifty years, maybe it’s not surprising,” he says with his signature wry smile.

Tickets are on sale now for Phoenix Theatre's production of 'Glide Time' at the PumpHouse Theatre from 18 September to 2 October. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Paint, Create and Make It Yours Looking for a fun and creative activity? DEPOT Ceramics Studio is the home of Paint Your Own Ceramics in Devonport.

Choose from a wide range of ceramic pieces, unleash your creativity, and we’ll professionally glaze and fire your masterpiece.

Visit us at 3 Victoria Road, Devonport.

DEPOT Ceramics Studio 3 Victoria Road, Devonport 10am – 4pm, Tuesday – Sunday depot.org.nz

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AUCKLAND’S VINTAGE PICTURE THEATRE

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18 September @thevicdevonport •

@yazagelato

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: THE PUMPHOUSE THEATRE NEWS

News from The PumpHouse from James Bell

A swan-derful August

Kia ora e te whānau! August is a wonderful time to wander down to The PumpHouse. Whether you're coming for a show or simply enjoying a stroll through Killarney Park, there's always something happening.

Keep an eye out for this year's fluffy baby cygnets gliding across Lake Pupuke, soak up the peaceful winter scenery, and pop next door to French Rendez-vous Café for the ultimate "dinner and a show" experience. There aren't many places where a lakeside walk, a delicious meal, and live theatre are all just a few steps apart.

This month we're celebrating an Aotearoa theatre legend, and one of our greatest storytellers, with a very special evening marking 50 years since Sir Roger Hall's first play, 'Glide Time', premiered. On 11 August, exactly 50 years to the night, Phoenix Theatre hosts an evening of stories, tributes and conversation celebrating the playwright whose sharp wit has seen years of Kiwis laughing at themselves. It's the perfect curtain-raiser before Phoenix returns with a season of 'Glide Time' in September.

The next few weeks also see hundreds of young performers bring boundless energy to our stages. Northcote Intermediate's production of 'High School Musical JR.' promises plenty of singing, dancing and infectious enthusiasm, while later in the month the North Shore Scout Gang Show returns with 'Game Time Live', a nostalgic trip back to the colourful game shows of the 1990s, packed with laughs.

August isn't just about performances, either. Our Annual General Meeting takes place on 19 August at French Rendez-vous Café, where theatre lovers can enjoy drinks, nibbles and hear from special guest speaker Simon Prast. If you’d like to attend our AGM, email info@pumphouse.co.nz by 10 August.

There's always a reason to visit The PumpHouse Theatre.

We’d love to see you soon!

Ngā manaakitanga, James

Hon Simon Watts MP for North Shore

simon.watts@parliament.govt.nz simonwattsmp

Dan Bidois

MP for Northcote dan.bidois@parliament.govt.nz danbidoismp

Authorised by Hon Simon Watts, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

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channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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YOUR GUIDE TO

EATING, DRINKING AND DINING ON THE SHORE

Eating Out THEON Shore

Takapuna Alforno Italian Restaurant

Here at Channel we're proud to support our local hospo businesses in our monthly eating out guide. Try somewhere new this month.

34 Anzac St. 09 488-0179. alforno.co.nz

Aubergine Restaurant

129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3104. aubergine.co.nz

Devonport

Stone Oven

Akdeniz Bar Cafe Restaurant

The Kestrel

Botticelli Restaurant & Wine Bar 8 Anzac St. 021 910 999. botticelli.co.nz

5 Clarence St. stoneoven.co.nz

Centro Café

447a Lake Rd. 09 200 2277. centrocafe.co.nz

5/15 Victoria Rd. 09 600 2125. akdenizdevonport.co.nz

1/1 Queens Parade, Devonport Wharf. 09 445 1777. thekestrel.co.nz

99 Victoria Rd. 09 445 8133. buonasera.co.nz

The Next Station Chinese Cuisine

101 Victoria Rd. 09 446 3368. caféhungviet.co.nz

The Patriot (Pub)

El Humero

163 Victoria Rd. 09 445 2232. calimero.co.nz

Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar

Florrie McGreals Irish Pub

4 Cambridge Terrace. catchacoffeenz@gmail.com

Vondel

Buona Sera Restaurant

448 Lake Rd. 09 488 7527

41 Victoria Rd. 09 200 0683

Calimero

14 Victoria Rd. 09 445 3010. thepatriot.co.nz

Catch A Coffee

53/55 Victoria Rd. 09 445 0194 vicroadkitchen.co.nz

46 Victoria Rd. 09 445 4151. corelliscafé.co.nz

Curry Cloud

161 Victoria Rd. 09 445 1546. currycloud.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 10 Victoria Rd. 09 963 9218. sofrenchcafénz.com

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Eat Street, 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9973. elhumero.co.nz 138 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 6330. florriemcgreals.co.nz

Flourish Café

19 Como Street. 09 489 2266. projectemploy.nz

8 Victoria Rd. 09 446 6444. vondel.co.nz

French Rendez-Vous

2a Maurere Ave. (next to The PumpHouse). 09 487 0009. french-rendez-vous-caférestaurant.business.site

Belmont/Hauraki

Hanoi Haven

40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 263 6393. hanoihaven.co.nz

Belmont Bar

Hong's Korean Kitchen

Caffé Santini

Ju Zu

148 Lake Rd. 09 445 3765. nzbelmontbar@gmail.com 63c Lake Rd, Belmont. 0221 872 491. espressosantini@gmail.com

Nanam

Daily Bread

178 Hurtsmere Rd. 09 488 9976 nanam.co.nz

43 Eversleigh Rd, Belmont. dailybread.co.nz

Regatta Bar & Eatery

Hauraki Social Club

Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0040. joylab.co.nz/regatta

Rosie's Red-Hot Cantina

Level 1, 335 Lake Rd, Hauraki. 09 802 2554. haurakisocialclub.co.nz

Main Beach, The Strand. 09 488 0016. starsocial.nz/venues/rosies-red-hot-cantina-takapuna

Sakebar Nippon

333 Lake Rd, Hauraki Corner. 09 486 0003. xotakapuna.com

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Shop 5, 62 Hurstmere Rd. 09 200 0217. hongskoreanrestaurant.co.nz 458 Lake Rd. 022 632 9003. juzu.co.nz

XO Takapuna

So French Café

Eat Street. 40 Hurstmere Rd. 09 486 3668. dantes.co.nz

DoDo Sushi & Donburi

Cafe Hung Viet

Corellis

Dantes Pizza & Casa Pasta

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32 Anzac Street. 09 486 2249. sakebar.co.nz

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So French Café

Northcote Tavern

Fantail & Turtle

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.

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

10 Victoria Road, Devonport 09 963 9218 sofrenchcafénz@gmail.com sofrenchcafénz.com facebook instagram #sofrenchcafédevonport Opening hours: Tues to Sun 8am-3pm

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Centrally located right by Auckland’s iconic Harbour Bridge 37 Queen Street, Northcote Point 09 480 7707 hello@northcotetavern.co.nz

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Milford

Chef Rasa Sayang

8/33 Hurstmere Rd. 09 484 0005. stmaree.co.nz 4 The Strand. 09 485 3888. strandwinebar.co.nz

Anokha Indian Restaurant

243 Hinemoa Street. 09 217 8558. claphams.co.nz

1 Byron Ave. 09 216 5991. streetorganics.co.nz

Cave À Vin

138-140 Hinemoa Street. duoeatery.co.nz 027 213 8591/027 421 6401. osteriauno.co.nz

St Marée Bistro

Strand Wine Bar Street Organics

Malaysian food. 25 Mokoia Rd. 09 419 9788

Clapham's

Duo / Osteria Uno

140 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 1499. anokha.co.nz

Takapuna Beach Cafe

146 Kitchener Rd. caveavin.co.nz

Fika With Me

22 The Promenade. takapunabeachcafé.co.nz

Good Town Burgers

168 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 9510. taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz

Khu Khu Eatery

129 Hurstmere Rd. 09 489 3988. toktok.co.nz

13 Shakespeare Rd. 09 282 0392. lamexicana.co.nz

89 Kitchener Rd. 09 485 3877. goodtownburgershop.co.nz

Taylors on Hurstmere

Mulan Malaysian Restaurant

La Mexicana

Tokyo Bay

Main Beach, The Strand. 09 390 7188. tokyobay.co.nz

Wok 'n Noodle

Milford Motel

1A Shakespeare Rd. 09 486 0314. milfordmotel.co.nz

Monthien Thai Restaurant

142 Kitchener Rd. 09 488 0409. monthien.co.nz

1/7 The Strand. 09 485 3259. woknnoodle.com

Smales Farm, Takapuna

Musashi Japanese Cuisine Milford

212 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 5977. musashirestaurant.co.nz

PYM's of Milford

154 Kitchener Rd. 021 413 850. pymsofmilford.com

Fantail & Turtle

Talay Thai Restaurant

09 486 0644. fantailandturtle.co.nz

83-85 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 9568 talaythai.co.nz

Gather Eatery

The Hub Milford Bar & Grill

09 212 4466. gathereatery.co.nz

145 Kitchener Rd. 09 489 4480. thehubmilford.nz

Shake Out Burgers

The Milford Cafe, Bar & Restaurant

09 489 8223. shakeout.co

7 Milford Rd. 09 488 9388. themilford.co.nz

Northcote Point 124 Queen Street, Northcote Point, 09 480 9600 sfera.co.nz

Birkenhead Brewing Company

Broke Boy Taco

32 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead. Brokeboytaco.com

Burrito House

17 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 2095. burritohouse.co.nz

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Tasty Tiny Thai Restaurant

52d Mokoia Rd. 09 418 4999. tastytinythai.co.nz

Thai Yum Food Hut

23 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 6799. thaiyum.net.nz

The Good Home

83 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 0066. thegoodhomebirkenhead.co.nz

The Bays and Albany

M

5-7 Corinthian Drive, Albany. 09 448 5757. khunpun.co.nz

IL

Montrose Cafe, Bistro & Bar

1 Montrose Tce, Mairangi Bay. 09 478 9610. montrose.org.nz

Paper Moon

437 Beach Rd, Mairangi Bay. 09 479 8872. papermoon.org.nz

Ristorante La Spiaggia

470 Beach Rd, Murrays Bay. 09 475 5643. laspiaggia.co.nz

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Khun Pun Thai Restaurant

4/56 Bounty Rd. 09 473 0908. longbaysurfclub.co.nz

9 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 5006. blitzapizza.co.nz

115 Queen St. 09 480 9502. engineroom.net.nz

30 Birkenhead Ave. 021 085 95485. realburger.site

Long Bay Surf Club

17 Birkenhead Ave. 09 320 5055. bbc.kiwi

Blitza Pizza

The Engine Room

Real Burger

1 The Esplanade, Campbells Bay. 09 475 5772. elgreco.co.nz

13 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 4202. abruzzi.co.nz

141 Queen St, Northcote Pt. 09 480 2690. staffordroadwinebar.co.nz

6 Mokoia Rd. 09 418 0555. primerosethaicuisine.co.nz

El Greco Greek and Italian Eatery

37 Queen St. 09 480 7707. northcotetavern.co.nz

Stafford Road Wine Bar

Primerose Thai Cuisine

37 Clyde R, Browns Bay.. 0800 21 3297. 21days.co.nz

Abruzzo Ristorante Italiano

Sfera

10 Birkenhead Ave. 09 480 2806. mulan.co.nz

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

Birkenhead

Northcote Tavern

Moxie Restaurant

82 Hinemoa St. 09 419 9082. moxierestaurant.co.nz

91 Kitchener Rd. 09 600 3327. khukhu.co.nz

Tok Tok Kitchen

5 Birkenhead Ave. 09 418 5508. @fikawithme

AP

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Gather Eatery

La Mexicana

Khun Pun Thai Restaurant

Gather celebrates simplicity done well: seasonal ingredients, authentic flavours, and meals to share and savour. Open for breakfast and lunch, Gather offers a warm, comfortable setting where everyone is welcome, whether solo or with friends or family. Dishes with a fresh twist are 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.

For private event bookings, email events@gathereatery.co.nz Open Tues-Friday 7.30am-3pm Sat and Sun 8am-3pm bookings@gathereatery.co.nz 09 212 4466, gathereatery.co.nz

Born from a passion to bring the true flavours of Mexico to Milford, La Mexicana serves authentic tacos made the traditional way. Enjoy nixtamal corn tortillas made fresh every day, slow-cooked meats and handmade salsas crafted from real ingredients and family recipes. Genuine Mexican food, made from scratch with corazón. A local Kiwi-Mexican family business, run with pride and passion.

Discover Khun Pun Thai Restaurant, where cherished recipes meet bold innovation and the freshest ingredients to create a truly memorable dining experience.

Celebrating 20 years of serving the local community, enjoy authentic Thai cuisine with a modern twist. An extensive menu caters to vegan, gluten-free and halal requirements, with ample parking available.

Open 7 days a week, 5-9pm, plus Sat & Sun brunches, 10am-2pm.

13 Shakespeare Rd, Milford info@lamexicana.co.nz lamexicana.co.nz

Enjoy 10% OFF dinner using code CHANNEL10 when you book by phone on 09 448 5757 or online www.khunpun.co.nz Valid to 30 August 2026 (T&Cs apply)

7 Corinthian Drive, Albany khunpun.co.nz facebook: khunpunthaialbany

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Tokyo Tok Tok Bay

Benny's

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!

Tokyo Baythe is situated seaside, Takapuna Discover Tok Tok experience in Beach. YouUnwind, can dineindulge and watch cruise Takapuna. and the savour the liners sail out after a day in Auckland.

Open vibrant flavours of modern Asian fusion seven a week with a casual at Tok days Tok Takapuna.

From fresh,lunch bold menu featuring light bites toevery a range dishes to creative cocktails, biteofis a bento box-styled selections. Then celebration, with vegetarian, veganfrom and GF 5pm a more extensive evening menu is options available.

Perfect for date nights, available, featuring modern Japanese group gatherings and those unforgettable cuisine. Bookings essential. moments. Book your table today and taste Theextraordinary!

Travellers’ Choice Awards 'Best of the the Best Restaurants for 2024' have been announced, with Tokyo Bay Takapuna in the 1/129 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna. top489 ten for the toktokkitchen@gmail.com, fourth year running.

09 3988, Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' 2021, 2022, toktok.co.nz 2023 and 2024. facebook toktakapuna Opening hours: Mon 5pm-late, tokyobay.co.nz Tues-Sun 12pm-late facebook tokyobaytakapuna

Indulge in Australia's iconic burgers, now in New Zealand! Fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet creative flavour, craft beer, and expertly crafted cocktails. From classic beef to gourmet vegetarian and vegan options, our menu boasts an impressive range of burgers to satisfy every craving.

Each patty is carefully cooked to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavourful bite every time.

Toppings and condiments are carefully selected to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavours of our ingredients.

178 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 488 9976, nanam.co.nz nanam.reservation@gmail.com Lunch: Wed–Sat, 11:30am-2:30pm Dinner: Tues–Sat, 5pm-10pm Closed Sun/Mon TA K

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100 Hurstmere Road, 095585775 Open: 11am - Late - Everyday facebook: Benny's American Burgers NZ instagram: bennysamericanburger.nz bennysburgers.co.nz

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Flourish Café

Strand Wine Bar

French Rendez-Vous

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.

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 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.

19 Como Street, BDO Towers, Takapuna 7am–3pm, Monday – Friday 09 489 2266 Instagram flourish.takapuna /projectemploynz Facebook Flourish Café /Project Employ projectemploy.nz

Open 6 days from midday.

Closed Mondays.

Strand Wine Bar 4 The Strand, Takapuna 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz Instagram @strandwinebar

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Located in the heart of Takapuna with a Lake Pupuke view, we are fully licensed with different ranges of French wines.

2a Manurere Avenue Next to The PumpHouse, Takapuna frenchrendezvous.booking@gmail 09 487 0009 facebook: FrenchRendezvousTakapuna Instagram: frenchrendezvoustakapuna

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Hanoi Haven

Street Organics

DoDo Sushi & Donburi

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.

There's enough to organise when you're hosting an event – let us take care of the food!

Loved by locals, DoDo Sushi brings authentic Japanese flavour to Takapuna with a fresh, modern twist.

Our delicious, nutritious catering includes plenty of options for all dietary styles, preferences and allergies, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. We'd love to be a small part of your next meeting, celebration or gathering.

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.

Mon-Fri 7am-3pm Sat-Sun 8am-3.30pm 1 Byron Avenue, Takapuna 09 216 5991 streetorganics.co.nz contact@streetorganics.co.nz @streetorganics_nz

448 Lake Road, Takapuna 09 488 7527 Monday to Saturday 9.30am-7.30pm (Wednesdays until 7pm) Instagram dodosushi.takapuna Facebook DoDo-Sushi-Donburi

40 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 263 6393 hello@hanoihaven.co.nz hanoihaven.co.nz Open 7 days, 11am to late.

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Social vibe: Friendly ‘neighbourhood’ feel with fireplace, indoor/outdoor seating and pub games like pool, darts, along with a comfortable gaming lounge.

138 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna 09 486 6581 florriemcgreals.co.nz

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Hearty fare: Classic menu including Irish favourites, burgers and pizzas

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An iconic North Shore landmark known for its authentic ‘craic’ and welcoming atmosphere. A premiere destination for:

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Simply delicious.

Taylors on Hurstmere

St Marée Bistro

Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason Theatre.

Perfect private parties, no venue hire!NV VeuveforClicquot Yellow Label

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

Yellow Hour

Yellow Bottle of Veuve5-7pm Clicquotdaily $85 perHour! bottle between Champagne only $85 from 5pm to 7pm every night!

Winner Lewisham Awards 2024 Outstanding Local Establishment North.

Sunday Roasts are back every Sunday in July and August! Bookings essential 168 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna taylorsonhurstmere@gmail.com taylorsonhurstmere.co.nz 09 489 9510 Licenced Eatery

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YOUR GUIDE TO

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Fantastic food served in a charming, relaxed Italian atmosphere and suitable for every occasion. All our food is made using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, using traditional recipes with a modern spin. We are passionate about the history and legacy of Italian food, and proud to bring you an authentic Italian and Mediterranean dining experience in Takapuna. Fully licensed, with a great selection of wines and other beverages to choose from, our friendly team will do everything to make your dining experience as enjoyable as possible.

Welcome to Cousin Scott's Family Restaurant and American Sports Bar in Takapuna — your local honky-tonk hangout! Enjoy mouthwatering American eats with a southern twist, like Nashville hot chicken and our famous Philly Cheesesteak sandwich.

Choose from six heat levels, if you dare! With 20 TVs for live sports, pool tables, and arcade games, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with an ice-cold brew. Here, everyone’s family!

Pizza Contemporanea & Casa Pasta – born in Naples, raised in New Zealand.

Award-winning pizzaiolo Enis Baçova brings Pizza Contemporanea to life at Dante’s Takapuna: slow-fermented dough, airy crusts, and Neapolitan soul. Signature pizzas and daily house-made pasta meet fine Italian wines. Ranked Top 10 AsiaPacific, Top 50 worldwide (50 Top Pizza), Silver Winner Caputo Cup 2024 Naples.

"We don't serve food – we serve stories, baked in fire."

Mon 5-9pm, Wed–Sun 12-3, 5-9pm 40 Hurstmere Rd, Takapuna, 09 486 3668, dantes.co.nz facebook instagram @DantesNZ and @enisbacova

34 Anzac Street, Takapuna 09 488 0179, alforno.co.nz facebook instagram @alfornonz alfornorestaurant@outlook.com MU

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Waygu short rib and market fish

Ristorante La Spiaggia

21 Days Bar & Brasserie

Long Bay Surf Club

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!

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.

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.

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

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37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay 0800 213 297 21days.co.nz

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Open Mon-Sun 11am-late. 09 473 0908 4/56 Bounty Road, Long Bay info@longbaysurfclub.co.nz longbaysurfclub.co.nz Instagram facebook: @longbaysurfclub

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ILOVETAKAPUNA: NEWS

Goldie’s Bar and Yard

Kayu Studio

Roti Bros

Takapuna trending: NEW this winter The last few months have seen a serious influx of fresh talent to the North Shore.

Check out these new hole-in-the-wall snack spots, design stores and spaces to unwind.

And don’t miss the headline act: our own home of Southern US-style comfort food, complete with bar, dance floor and entertainment.

Next level flavours: Roti Bros Forget everything you know about traditional pastry. Roti Brothers wraps slowcooked, gourmet fillings like butter chicken inside soft, flaky, golden roti sheets. It’s the sort of delicious that will completely ruin other pies. You have been warned. Find it: 40 Hurstmere Road

Get your dance on: Goldie’s Bar and Yard Takapuna just got a massive dose of Southern soul. This is a modern honky-tonk serving up cocktails, ice-cold beers and comfort food with a serious kick. There’s live music and line dancing to turn the dance floor energy up.

Find it: 138 Hurstmere Road

Rest and reset: Redroom Takapuna A sanctuary dedicated to movement, recovery and contrast therapy. Featuring a heated Pilates studio designed to deeply activate muscles. Alongside private infrared saunas and ice baths to reset your nervous system. Find it: 40 Hurstmere Road (upstairs)

Elevate your space: Kayu Studio A dedicated source for slow-made designs.

Kayu Studio brings beautifully curated, globally inspired homewares and furniture to Takapuna. For those looking for a sense of calm and organic texture in their home. Find it: 5/138 Hurstmere Road

Get stretchy: StretchLab Great workouts need proper recovery: enter Stretch Lab. You work one-onone with an expert Flexologist who uses assisted stretching techniques to unlock your range of motion and improve your posture. Find it: 1 Byron Avenue

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

Indulge in your health: bowler bowler are totally into salad bowls – but we can see why! These tasty, nutritious, epic bowls of awesome, are now open on Eat Street, with the perfect outlook into Waiwharariki Anzac Square. bowler offer simple, clean, tasty options for your lunch, dinner or afternoon pick-me-up, whether you’re sitting in the square enjoying some winter sunshine, or picking up on-the-go, down to the beach, or off on your day.

The bowler crew are also renowned for their acai bowls, cookies and smoothies.

Keep those summer shred goals on track, and check out bowler – your new go-to Taka lunch spot.

Find it: 12/40 Hurstmere Road

GOLD SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Gold sponsors…

HND Holdings

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Authentic eats: Katsu Tei Takapuna Perfect crispy crumbed pork coming your way! Katsu Tei specialises in katsu and udon. This authentic restaurant uses panko breadcrumbs, house-made sauces and a signature, unique curry blend udon.

Find it: 62/78 Hurstmere Road

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Redroom Takapuna

StretchLab

Katsu Tei Takapuna=

Check out the new eateries, stores and wellbeing hubs now open!

Don’t bin it, fix it: Service House Trusted since 1953, this Huron Street staple for appliance and coffee machine repairs is under fresh new ownership. They fix everything from your home coffee maker to mixers and vacuums, keeping your favourite household gadgets running smoothly. Find it: 4 Huron Street Fruit and vegetables: Farm to Fork Swing by to stock up on fresh seasonal fruit, vegetables and essentials. Shopping locally makes it easy to skip the supermarket lines, and think of those big, juicy, well-priced veggies!

Find it: 3/4 Huron Street Iconic eats: Mussel and Chip You’ve heard of fish ‘n’ chips, now try Mussel and Chip! Just opened at the corner of Anzac Street and Hurstmere Road, this family business is serving up iconic green-lipped mussels from their Coromandel farm. Have ‘em fried with chips, or dabble in something a little more exotic like the steamed mussels in the shell with Paris butter and wine, or Vietnamese broth.

Find it: 2 Anzac Street

Mussel and Chip

Bowler

Coming soon: Yomi Get ready to customise your own dessert bowls with gourmet toppings and fresh fruit, in a space built for both healthy cravings and social vibes. Yomi is a self-serve frozen yogurt and açaí bar. Find it: 51 Hurstmere Road

PLATINUM SPONSORS: The Takapuna Beach Business Association appreciates the support of our Platinum sponsors…

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CRAVEHOME

the #supportlocal

The new yeseco v2 dish brush that proves everyday essentials can be both beautiful and brilliantly designed. Thoughtfully designed to simplify your daily routine while reducing waste—because sustainable living starts with the little things.

Available now in store and online.

30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead 09 419 9535 150 Kitchener Road, Milford 09 489 8888 cravehome.co.nz

WALLY

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

DEPOT SHOP | TOI TOA

GALA STUDIO

Paper, Reimagined.

Transform an ordinary bottle into something beautiful. Handcrafted reusable paper vases that wrap around a bottle or jar in seconds.

Steve Bolton is an Auckland-based painter, printmaker and cartoonist whose imaginative works blend humour, history and everyday life. Discover expressive prints in store, then experience his exhibition 120, opening at DEPOT Lounge on 4 September.

3 Victoria Road, Devonport 10am – 4pm, Tuesday – Sunday depot.org.nz

www.galastudio.nz @galastudio.nz

YARNTONS

Your destination for iconic R.M. Williams boots. Shop in-store and online!

18 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead, 09 418 4011 69 Victoria Road, Devonport, 09 445 3479 facebook instagram @yarntons yarntons.co.nz

LIQUORLAND TAKAPUNA

Mission Reserve range, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

RRP $26.99 per bottle.

SPECIAL OFFER to Channel Mag readers: Two for $40 182 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1770, liquorland.co.nz takapuna@liquorland.co.nz

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STRAND WINE BAR

Moristel is Somontano's native grape and is rarely seen outside northern Spain. Bodega Pirineos' Principio is one of its finest expressions. Unoaked and unfiltered, it's full of character; ripe plum and redcurrant flavours with a savoury edge and lively acidity keeping it fresh. A striking, foodfriendly red worth discovering.

Strand Wine Bar, open 6 days from midday. Closed Mondays.

4 The Strand, Takapuna 09 485 3888 strandwinebar.co.nz

LAZYPAWS PET STORE

A must-have for vegan pet lovers!

Now available at Lazypaws, Maks Patch vegan dog chews are made with sweet potato or soy, blended with fruits, vegetables and peanuts. Bursting with natural flavour and available in fun, unique shapes, they're the perfect healthy chew for your furry friend!

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-7pm 027 860 1106 getintouch@lazypaws.co.nz lazypaws.co.nz

COSI FAN TUTTE

Such an inspiring book, full of colour and ideas to enhance your plans for spring planting, and incorporating flowers in a myriad ways in your home.

Find this wonderful book at Cosi Fan Tutte.

73 Victoria Road, Devonport 021 247 2469 cosifantutte.co.nz instagram @cosifantutte_devonport

ELEMENTS GIFTS – GLENFIELD MALL Find the perfect gift for dad with the tan Pop Up wallet by Moana Rd. Featuring an automatic pop-up card holder, a zipped coin pocket, and a sleek, compact design, it's a practical gift he'll use every day.

Discover this and many more great gift ideas at Elements Gifts, Level 3 Glenfield Mall.

09 442 1117

FLORIENNE Early spring vibes.

60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 6438 florienne.co.nz

WALLACE COTTON

Get a jump on Father’s Day with thoughtful gifts made for dads. From our Sawyer Apron for the home cook to a range of practical gift ideas, find something he’ll love using long after Father’s Day. Visit our Takapuna location at 156 Hurstmere Road to see new pieces in-store now.

156 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 551 7767 wallacecotton.com

ART IN MY WARDROBE

Wrap yourself in timeless style this August with our beautifully handcrafted embroidered jackets, luxurious cashmere stoles, and effortlessly elegant dresses.

Visit us in store and enjoy special offers all throughout August on artisan-crafted pieces designed to be loved for years to come.

30 Victoria Road, Devonport 022 355 3435 artinmywardrobe.co.nz channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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Feature | Father's Day

This Father's Day, let's spend time together

By Paula Arblaster Father's Day, Sunday 6 September, is fast approaching, and I’m determined that this year we’ll think of something better than socks! One of the best things we can gift the special people in our lives is our time, so why not consider gifting Dad a shared experience or family fun day. Of course, you can choose to celebrate any special person at this time of year – honouring grandparents, mums and others who’ve played a special role.

Your “day out with dad” may take place on Father's Day itself or any suitable day following; just tell him all about the plans in his Father's Day card. Be sure to take photos of your adventures on the day as those images will evoke memories in the future.

IS HE A SPORTS MAD DAD? Does Dad live for the result of the big weekend match? Whether it’s rugby, cricket, basketball, netball or anything else, a family day together watching his favourite sport is bound to be memorable. Give him a chance to explain the rules and strategies to the kids, while you all eat hot chips and fizzy drinks and make some noise supporting your local team. Check out what’s coming up at eventfindastadium.co.nz and aucklandstadiums.co.nz/whats-on Maybe Dad’s sport of choice is golf. If you have slightly older or adult kids, a day on the golf course can give them time to talk with each other as well as offering Dad a chance to share golfing tips. If you’re new to golf, consider gifting Dad and yourself

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joint coaching sessions; you will learn a new sport and have a new shared interest to enjoy. We have beautiful golf courses on the North Shore, all of which offer coaching sessions. Check out pupuke.co.nz or waitematagolf.co.nz for options.

OR THE KING OF THE BARBECUE? It takes skill and patience to create delicious low and slow barbecue. If Dad has a taste for smoky flavours, why not join him in a masterclass?

Barbecueing is a hobby all of its own, with many styles and types BBQWar Wairau Valley of equipment with which to experiment, as well as festivals you can attend together. Spend a delicious and fun day with award-winning pitmasters 'BBQWar' and acquire skills you can use again and again to impress (and feed!) your family and friends. Check out their BBQ Shop for equipment and supplies and their Facebook page to sign up for one of their monthly masterclasses.

8A Kaimahi Road, Wairau Valley bbqwar. co.nz Facebook: Team BBQWAR Instagram: teambbqwarnz

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Mead Ceramics Albany

IS HE A CRAFTER OR GOOD WITH HIS HANDS? A crafty dad would love to join you in learning to make something new, especially if it’s informal and fun. Making mistakes together while you’re learning can be hugely funny, and when you do manage to craft something correctly, you can both feel proud. Why not make cups together at Mead Ceramics, which hosts a 'Date with Clay' session that is all about the fun of squishing clay and giving the wheel a go. (Minimum age 15, up to six people) 8 Henry Rose Place. meadceramics.com You can also check out the range of classes at Lake House Arts Centre and Mairangi Arts Centre for other classes that might appeal to him. lakehousearts.org.nz or mairangiarts.co.nz

Thrillzone Takapuna

experienced guide. Tours range from 1 to 3.5 hours. (Minimum age 16 years old for driving a jet-ski, 8 years old for a passenger with their legal guardian) sea-auckland.nz

D:STIL Project Rum School

OR A PIRATICAL RUM-LOVING DAD? Does Dad love the complexity of flavours in a good rum? Spend a few hours together at Rum School (or Gin School if he’s a gin drinker) with D:STIL Project in Coatesville. They have an amazing range of botanicals and copper alembic stills for making rum along with clear instructions and advice to help you. And you get to take your masterpiece home to show off to your friends! dstilproject.nz DOES HE LOVE TO GET OUT ON THE SEA? If you’re a family with a boat, gift Dad a new fishing lure and head off for a fishing day.

Make it a competition and award certificates or prizes – for younger kids you might want funny awards like the smallest or ugliest fish, or a prize for the best baiter of hooks and the best fishing spot finder. If you haven’t got a boat, consider our great North Shore wharves. Pack up a lunchbox, fishing gear and bait and make sure Dad tells you his most whopping fish stories. Find out more about wharf fishing here: fishing.net. nz/fishing-advice/general-articles/aucklandstop-spots-techniques-for-wharf-fishing A more adventurous option for a dad who has older or adult kids is a jet ski tour from Sea Auckland at Bayswater Marina.

See the harbour or the Hauraki Gulf from a new perspective and experience the thrill of speeding through the water alongside an

IS HE A HISTORY BUFF? Does Dad love finding out more about days gone by? Spend an afternoon together on a guided tour of North Head/Maungauika.

Run by the Auckland Coastal Defences Historical Trust, the tours explore a complex of tunnels, guns, searchlights and fortifications. One of the most interesting items is the eight-inch disappearing gun built in 1886. Either book a private tour (minimum of 10 people) or make a date for the Auckland Heritage Festival, where there will be set tours (26 September–11 October) on Saturdays and Sundays at 10am or 2pm. (Tunnel tour is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs) Find out more: forts.org.nz/north-head OR A GAMER DAD? Computer gaming doesn’t have to be a solitary pursuit; you can have a hilarious 'gaming afternoon' for Dad in your own lounge with the family participating in younger-focused games or have your teenagers teach Dad their favourite, harder to master game. Then there’s the whole wide world of board games. Set up a retrothemed board game day in your lounge and play games Dad remembers from his youth like Monopoly, Scrabble and Twister, accompanied by a feast of his favourite classic snacks.

If Dad and the kids have energy to burn and are amping to compete, why not try something with a little more adrenaline?

Thrillzone in Takapuna offers laser tag, VR games, racing car simulators and escape room adventures, to name a few of their many options. Thrillzone at 28 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna. thrillzone.co.nz IS HE BUSY WITH LITTLIES? Spending time playing, laughing and

joining in with your under-10s is special because these young years really do pass so fast. With a little organisation, playtime can be turned into a Father's Day event, rather than just a regular weekend morning. Involve the kids’ creativity and humour in your plans, and get them to create a backyard sports day for Dad after his special Father's Day breakfast. They can set an adventure course to compete on against Dad, following their own rules, jumping through hoops, balancing on a board, and hopping through a chalk-drawn hopscotch, for example. Or host your own World Cup of backyard soccer, cricket or basketball, or gift Dad a yard game like Finska, Kubb or Cornhole and crown a champion after a few practices! It’s an easy way to get everyone outdoors laughing and bonding, and the games can come out again at the next family gathering.

Don’t have a backyard? You can play frisbee golf for free at Rosedale Park (find out more at udisc.com), or head for an exciting game of mini golf at Gloputt at 28 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna. gloputt.co.nz OR AN ELDERLY DAD? If the dad you’re celebrating is frail or infirm, it can be hard to think of activities they would like to do that are both safe and comfortable for them. A great option is to spend time reflecting on happy memories, going through old photo albums, and asking them to explain the stories behind the photos or treasures they’ve collected. Why not gather the whānau for a shared meal, have some of Dad’s favourite foods, and let him be the guest speaker for a ‘show and tell’ of family memorabilia?

There are just a few days a year where we celebrate and honour parents. Whether you spend it having an exciting adventure, learning a new skill or hobby, or doing something quieter and more poignant together, you’ll be creating a memory that is longer-lasting than a tangible gift.

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#Gramworthy Our round-up of posts from local Browns Bay spots on IG that we’ve double-tapped (liked) and a Q&A with Robin from @21daysbrownsbay Robin Lee, owner of 21 Days Bar and Brasserie, has called the North Shore home for the past 26 years. A lifelong passion for great food inspired him to open the Browns Bay restaurant nine years ago, creating a welcoming, family-friendly destination for exceptional steak. Specialising in wagyu and dry-aged beef, 21 Days takes its name from the twentyone-day ageing process used for most of its premium cuts. Robin and his team are passionate about quality, boasting one of only three American broilers in New Zealand and the country's largest selection of wagyu cuts.

Channel Mag: Is Instagram a source of inspiration for 21 Days Bar and Brasserie? Who do you recommend following and why?

Robin Lee: Instagram is a great way for us to stay connected with the suppliers and producers we work with.

Westmere Butchery is well worth a Robin Lee, 21 Days follow – they supply some of our beef and their behind-the-scenes content shows the craft that goes into quality meat before it ever reaches a restaurant.

Which other local businesses do social media well?

Not a local business, but the Browns Bay Business Association does a great job of storytelling, showcasing what's happening locally and the businesses around us.

What’s happening at 21 Days Bar and Brasserie that you want locals to know about?

Our menu changes seasonally, and there's always a monthly special dish worth coming in for. We also run regular wine tastings hosted by international wine expert Gavin 21days.co.nz Hubble, which have become a 37 Clyde Road, Browns Bay favourite with our regulars. @21daysbrownsbay

Some supportive motivation from a popular local Pilates studio that we reckon readers will love. @your_pilates_spot

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For a beautiful selection of unique and ethically produced gifts, look no further than this local store. @bathboutiquenz

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

A new website for this salon in Browns Bay – hairdressers who also have expertise with curls. @theexclusivenz

The Gables – A Takapuna Icon Takapuna 207 Hurstmere Road

A timeless legacy on the golden mile

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An address of enduring distinction, The Gables is one of Takapuna’s most treasured residences. Positioned along the prestigious Golden Mile, this remarkable 1928 home presents a rare opportunity to own a residence of genuine character, provenance, and architectural significance. Beautifully preserved over almost a century, its native kauri craftsmanship, intricate leadlight detailing, and timeless design reflect the exceptional quality of a bygone era.

Set within established gardens on an impressive 1,035sqm freehold site, this substantial five-bedroom, four-bathroom residence offers a refined sense of space, privacy, and grandeur. Generous living areas, elegant proportions, and a wealth of original character create a home that is both impressive and deeply inviting.

Homes of this calibre and historical significance are seldom offered to the market.

Brown Gables stands as one of the North Shore's enduring landmark residences, offering an extraordinary opportunity to secure not only an exceptional home, but a lasting legacy within one of Auckland's most tightly held coastal addresses.

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Set Sale Date (unless sold prior) 4pm, Wednesday 26th August 2026 Phone for viewing times Nicky Joyce 027 522 5560 nicky.joyce@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, TAKAPUNA, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Matt Clifford 021 516 515 matt.clifford@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, TAKAPUNA, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1451943

Moments from Takapuna Beach, the vibrant Hurstmere Road precinct and within sought-after school zones including Westlake Boys’, Westlake Girls’ and Takapuna Grammar, Brown Gables represents a rare legacy opportunity. More than a residence, it is a significant piece of Takapuna's history, an iconic home with a timeless appeal to be cherished for generations.

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BUSINESS FOCUS: BARRYS POINT ROAD

PACK & SEND: TAKAPUNA

By Jane and Jeremy Bain, franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna

Sending something overseas?

Compassionate, eco-friendly water cremation and personalised memorial options for your beloved pet.

65 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday: 10am - 3pm Contact: info@gentlewaves.co.nz • 020 4010 7800 & 020 4010 5891 www.gentlewaves.co.nz • & : gentlewaves_nz

Pack & Send Takapuna is your 'one-stop shop' for all your international packaging and freight needs. When you need to send overseas to any country, you can rely on Pack & Send's experience to package it and get it delivered safely.

Jane and Jeremy Bain, the franchisees at Pack & Send Takapuna, have a 'no limits' approach when helping customers solve packaging and freight problems, from a sensitive document to difficult, fragile and valuable items. "Many of the items we have dealt with are considered too difficult for general freight," says Jeremy.

Sending overseas is complex, and Pack & Send makes it easy. “We prepare all the items for sending, make inventory lists and prepare customs documentation,” says Jane.

… Pack & Send customers can use Pack & Send's Freight Plus warranty to cover against loss or damage…

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Many of these items are valuable, so Pack & Send customers can use Pack & Send's Freight Plus warranty to cover against loss or damage to secure that extra peace of mind – something not generally available when freighting goods of high value.

For those really delicate items like fine antiques or ceramics, Pack & Send can use its state-of-the-art 'foam in place' packaging system, which forms a protective mould around the item, for safe transport.

"We also produce custom-made boxes to any size or shape," adds Jeremy. "Because we treat each consignment as unique, designing packaging and the freight solutions to suit, we're finding that more and more people benefit from our services.”

Pack & Send is experienced at sending personal effects and excess baggage, assisting with personal relocation for work or family.

They provide service, systems and packaging to make your freight experience as simple and smooth as possible. You don't need to open an account; they send anything, anywhere and take care of the hassles.

Pack & Send Takapuna, open Monday–Saturday, at 77 Barrys Point Rd, with exclusive and convenient parking outside.

Phone 09 486 3355 or email takapuna@packsend.co.nz and let them make sending easy.

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PACK & SEND TAKAPUNA 77B Barrys Point Road, Takapuna.

09 486 3355 | takapuna@packsend.co.nz www.packsend.co.nz/takapuna

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Y G R E EN R E T A E R G RINGING

B

A N U P A K TO TA

INTRODUCING B AY L E Y S C O R N E R The new home of Takapuna Residential and North Shore Commercial NORTHCROFT STREET AND LAKE ROAD

0800 BAYLEYS | bayleys.co.nz LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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BAYLEYS NORTH SHORE COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

Bayleys’ new architecturally designed North Shore headquarters signals the firm’s enduring confidence in Takapuna’s regeneration and the value of investing in quality workplaces

Bayleys builds confidence on the North Shore The strongest businesses invest with a long-term view, recognising that the quality of their people, workplaces, and client experience ultimately shapes their competitive advantage. Bayleys Real Estate’s investment in a new purposedesigned North Shore headquarters in central Takapuna embodies that thinking, bringing its commercial, and industrial and residential, teams together in a landmark architecturally designed building.

The project, dubbed ‘Bayleys Corner’, has transformed a dated commercial property into a contemporary workplace which contributes to the ongoing regeneration of Takapuna while reinforcing Bayleys’ commitment to the North Shore.

Bayleys Auckland Commercial general manager, Scott Campbell, who led the project, says the investment echoes a broader strategy centred on investing in people and the environments that support them.

“Property has always been a relationship business. While technology has changed how we work, it hasn’t diminished the importance of bringing talented people together, creating spaces where ideas are shared, and clients can engage with specialists in a way that isn’t possible through a screen.”

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Scott says Bayleys’ continued investment in bricks-and-mortar assets comes at a time when many organisations remain cautious, reflecting the firm’s long-term conviction in both quality real estate and the workplaces that support its people. “We advise clients every day about the value of investing in quality real estate, and we’re demonstrating the same conviction ourselves.

The environments we occupy become an expression of our standards and the confidence we have in the future of our business.”

Scott says Bayleys Corner builds on recent investment in the firm’s Remuera office, with further workplace projects planned across Auckland. “We’re creating places where people genuinely want to work because culture, collaboration and pride directly influence client outcomes. We’ve also seen these environments become an extension of the communities they serve, strengthening local connections and reinforcing the Bayleys brand.”

The approach also shapes how clients experience the business. Bayleys North Shore Residential’s branch manager, Kathryn Robertson, says integrating the firm’s residential, commercial and industrial specialists creates a more seamless experience by bringing specialist expertise together under one roof.

“Clients increasingly value advisors who can support every stage of their property journey. Bringing our residential, commercial and industrial specialists together allows clients to access broader expertise through one trusted team.”

The building itself has been designed to encourage that connection. Positioned on the prominent corner of Lake Road and Northcroft Street, Bayleys Corner incorporates a public café adjoining the auction room, creating a welcoming space that extends beyond the office and into the wider community.

For Bayleys North Shore Commercial and Industrial general manager, Simon Farland, the project also reflects Takapuna’s growing momentum. He says the vision from the outset was to create a workplace capable of supporting the business for decades while contributing positively to Takapuna’s ongoing transformation.

“Bayleys’ investment mirrors the growing confidence evident across Takapuna, where current and future developments, including Knight Crawford’s Takapuna Surf Club, Willis Bond’s Takapuna Central and HND Holdings’ The Strand, are helping to redefine the town centre.”

Simon believes Bayleys Corner is indicative of a broader shift underway across Takapuna.

“When businesses are prepared to invest in quality developments, it creates momentum.

We’re creating places where people genuinely want to work because culture, collaboration and pride directly influence client outcomes.

It encourages further investment, strengthens confidence in the precinct and ultimately contributes to building a town centre people want to work in, invest in and spend time in.”

North Shore Commercial 2-8 Northcroft Street, Takapuna 09 489 0999 northshorecommercial@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/offices/north-shorecommercial Takapuna - Residential 2-8 Northcroft Street, Takapuna 09 489 1999 takapuna@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/offices/takapuna-residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd, Takapuna Licensed under the REA Act 2008

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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New G6 Ultra Smart Coupé SUV From $59,990 +ORC. Up to 427km of charge1 in 15 minutes

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

64 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna 09 442 3314 www.xpengnorthshore.co.nz

MORTGAGE ADVICE: THE MORTGAGE SUPPLY CO, BROWNS BAY

BAYLEYS RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE: YAN DAVIES

By Yan Davies, Takapuna Residential Bayleys Real Estate Ltd

The price gap: Why buyers and sellers still aren’t aligned One of the defining characteristics of today’s property market isn’t a lack of buyers or sellers; it’s the gap between their expectations.

Many homeowners still remember the extraordinary prices achieved during the peak of the market a few years ago.

Understandably, those sales remain a benchmark in their minds.

Buyers, however, are making decisions based on today’s lending costs, greater property choice, and current market conditions, not yesterday’s headlines.

By Jess Barlow - Your home for all things mortgages

A market that rewards preparation Home values, the latest OCR increase, and practical tips to help you make confident property decisions.

The latest Cotality Home Value Index shows national home values eased by 0.2% in June; the national average now sits at $806,512.

While Auckland and Wellington continue to influence the national picture, the North Shore market remains resilient, with the average property value sitting at $1,262,274.

The Reserve Bank increased OCR by 0.25%, taking it to 2.25%.

While rate increases are never welcome news, they reinforce the importance of having the right lending strategy rather than simply chasing the lowest rate.

For sellers, the key is entering the market with a strategy built on current evidence rather than historic results.

This difference in perspective can result in properties remaining on the market longer than expected. Often, it’s not because there is anything wrong with the home, but because buyers simply don’t see enough value at the asking price.

The good news is that well-priced, well-presented homes continue to attract strong interest and, in many cases, competitive offers. Buyers are still prepared to pay a premium for quality, location, and homes that have been thoughtfully maintained. What has changed is that they expect pricing to reflect today’s market realities.

For sellers, the key is entering the market with a strategy built on current evidence rather than historic results. Accurate pricing, professional marketing, and expert guidance remain the most effective combination for achieving a successful outcome.

For buyers, today’s market presents opportunities; greater choice and more time to make informed decisions allow purchasers to focus on long-term value rather than reacting to pressure.

As the market continues to find its balance, success will belong to those who understand where today’s market is, not where it has been.

Yan Davies is a reliable and trusted adviser, and a longtime North Shore local with a Master’s degree in business administration. Known for her strong high-end client network across both Asian and local communities, Yan is highly professional in her approach and treats every listing as a top priority, striving to deliver a smooth sales process and achieve the best possible result for her clients.

Yan Davies 燕 021 585 590 yan.davies@bayleys.co.nz Licensed under the REA Act 2008 唯一华人中介@ Bayleys Takapuna

One of the most common conversations with clients right now is around loan structuring. Rather than fixing an entire mortgage for one term, many homeowners are splitting their lending across different fixed-rate periods. This can provide greater flexibility, reduce exposure to future rate movements, and create opportunities to review lending as the market evolves.

It's important to think beyond today's interest rates. With an election on the horizon, now is a good time to speak with your mortgage adviser and accountant about long-term plans. Understanding potential changes before they happen puts you in a stronger position to make informed decisions. Banks are currently offering faster turnaround times on pre-approvals. Knowing your borrowing capacity early allows you to act confidently when the right property comes along.

A myth I often hear is that young adults need a credit card or personal loan to "build a credit history." In reality, lenders place far more value on consistent savings, sensible spending habits and good account conduct than on unnecessary debt.

Every client's situation is different, which is why strategy matters just as much as securing a competitive interest rate. Whether you're buying, investing, restructuring lending or planning ahead, I'm happy to help put together a plan that supports your long-term goals.

Jess Barlow Jessica@mortgagesupply.co.nz : @jess.mortgagesupplyco jessbarlow.mortgagesupply.co.nz Jessica Barlow gives financial advice under her company La Casa Group 2026 Ltd Trading as The Mortgage Supply Co

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Feature Q&A | Gardens, homes and DIY in winter

Gardens, homes and DIY in winter

Winter is the perfect time to refresh, repair and reimagine your home. Whether you're planning a renovation, tackling a DIY project or giving your garden some seasonal care, there's plenty of inspiration to be found close to home. This month, we chat with North Shore businesses that know homes, gardens and DIY best. They share their expert tips, seasonal advice and fresh ideas to help you make the most of the months ahead.

Florienne

opportunity – for nature and for your own enjoyment. So many plants and trees provide year-round interest and colour.

With decades of international experience as a floral designer, teacher and display artist, Franca Logan brings creativity and botanical expertise to every arrangement she creates. The Dutch-born owner of Florienne, the much-loved florist on Hurstmere Road in Takapuna, opened the business in 2009 and has built a loyal following through her passion for flowers and exceptional design.

Channel Mag: Tell us about your business and what you love most about working on the North Shore.

Franca Logan: Florienne is a florist in Takapuna specialising in fresh flowers and plants. We custom-make bouquets for both instore customers and deliveries, and we create floral arrangements for weddings, events, funerals and all occasions. We love being part of the North Shore community and helping people celebrate life's special moments through flowers.

How does winter typically shape the kind of work or projects you're involved in at this time of year?

Winter often sees me teaching seminars in New Zealand and overseas. I have also just returned from participating in the Singapore Garden Festival, which is always an inspiring experience.

What small, achievable projects can make a big difference before the warmer months arrive?

If you have a collection of vases, bottles or containers for cut flowers – whether they're from the florist or your own garden – give them a thorough clean. I use sterilising tablets for those that aren't easy to scrub by hand. Flower vases should always be clean enough to drink out of, as cut flowers don't thrive in bacteria-filled water.

Franca Logan

What are the top floral projects readers should tackle now to be ready for spring?

I like to get my planter pots cleaned, refreshed and filled with fresh soil, ready for new herbs, seeds and plants when the weather warms up. I also plan which flowers I'd like to grow for cutting so I can enjoy beautiful homegrown bouquets throughout the season.

Are there any common mistakes you see people making when preparing their homes or gardens during winter?

Not planting food sources for wildlife and pollinators throughout winter is a missed

Are there any trends or popular upgrades you're seeing locally this season?

Planting to attract pollinators, while incorporating more edible plants alongside flowers that are ideal for cutting, is becoming increasingly popular. It's something I've been developing in my own garden since we moved to our current home in 2019.

When you're not working, what are your favourite ways to enjoy winter on the Shore with family or friends?

Enjoying dinners out with friends and spending as much time as I can in the garden. florienne.co.nz 60A Hurstmere Road, Takapuna

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Covers 4 Pools With more than 25 years of experience in the pool industry, Paulene Olliver is part of the family team behind Covers 4 Pools and G.B. Pool Supplies, specialists in the supply and installation of automatic pool covers for both new and existing pools.

Are there any common mistakes you see people making when preparing their homes or gardens during winter?

Yes. A lot of clients leave their pools in winter mode for too long, which means there's a lot more work to do when spring arrives.

Channel Mag: Tell us about your business and what you love most about working on the North Shore.

Paulene Olliver: We travel throughout New Zealand installing our automatic pool covers, but our business is based in Helensville, where we manufacture and supply our products. The North Shore is such an easy area to work in, especially with our close proximity to Helensville, and we enjoy working with so many local customers.

What small, achievable projects can make a big difference before the warmer months arrive?

Tidy up around the pool area and keep your pool and cover well maintained throughout winter.

How does winter typically shape the kind of work or projects you're involved in at this time of year?

Winter is a busy time for installations, and it also gives us the opportunity to catch up on all those smaller jobs before spring arrives.

What are the top projects readers should tackle now to be ready for spring?

For pool owners, winter is the perfect time to clean your pool and cover so everything is ready to go for the warmer months.

A lot of clients leave their pools in winter mode for too long, which means there's a lot more work to do when spring arrives.

Are there any trends or popular upgrades you're seeing locally this season?

We're seeing plenty of new builds, as well as existing pool owners choosing to upgrade to

Paulene Olliver

automatic pool covers. With the touch of a button, you can open and close the cover – no more manually winding it in or dealing with cumbersome roller systems.

When you're not working, what are your favourite ways to enjoy winter on the Shore with family or friends?

Spending time with family over dinner, catching up on the gardening, and generally keeping warm! covers4pools.co.nz

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Ready to welcome you.

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Feature Q&A | Gardens, homes and DIY in winter

Newhaven Gardens Amanda Graham owns Newhaven Gardens, a local gardening and plant care business that she started after moving from England with her husband, Paul, in 2003. After more than a decade working in the finance and insurance industry, a move from Sandringham across the bridge in 2012, and welcoming her daughter, Matilda, in 2015 (the family now also includes rescue cats Yuzu and Noodle), Amanda was ready for a change. Gardening had always been a lifelong passion, so she began studying horticulture with the goal of starting her own business.

Channel Mag: Tell us about your business and what you love most about working on the North Shore.

Amanda Graham: I started Newhaven Gardens in 2018. We're a boutique garden care company with an organic approach, committed to using environmentally friendly tools and practices. We cover the entire North Shore, from Devonport to Orewa, so I get to drive through our lovely neighbourhoods every day, meeting wonderful clients and visiting truly stunning gardens.

How does winter typically shape the kind of work or projects you're involved in at this time of year?

Winter is typically all about pruning and planting for us. We clear away old, damaged or diseased wood, shape and reinvigorate existing plants, and add new plants while the ground isn't too dry and the temperatures aren't too harsh for them to establish.

What are the top garden projects readers should tackle now to be ready for spring?

With a 'Super' El Niño forecast for spring and summer, it's potentially going to be a very dry, hot season. Installing drip irrigation or ollas is a great investment. At home, we're

installing a rainwater harvesting system from our roof. It's a little tricky because you need to estimate the roof area feeding each downpipe and calculate average rainwater flows, but it will make a huge difference if we experience drought conditions this summer.

We have such a contrast between dry summers and wet winters that it's easy to accidentally waterlog your garden beds if you forget to reduce watering times.

Amanda Graham

Are there any common mistakes you see people making when preparing their homes or gardens during winter?

Adjusting irrigation timers always seems to catch people out. We have such a contrast between dry summers and wet winters that it's easy to accidentally waterlog your garden beds if you forget to reduce watering times.

Skipping pruning is another common issue.

Problems can quickly compound if pruning is neglected for a year, and pruning also gives you the chance to get up close to your plants and spot early signs of pests or disease.

What small, achievable projects can make a big difference before the warmer months arrive?

Mulching your garden beds to help conserve moisture would be top of my list. If you have heavy clay soil, it's a good idea to spread some gypsum and compost first to help improve the soil structure. When mulching, aim for a generous layer of at least 60mm, and please don't use weed mat, as it reduces airflow and water penetration into the soil.

Are there any trends or popular upgrades you're seeing locally this season?

Native plants continue to be popular, and more and more varieties are coming onto the market, giving us some fantastic choices.

We're also noticing that clients are becoming much more knowledgeable about – and more open to – organic gardening practices, with a stronger focus on soil health and plant resilience.

When you're not working, what are your favourite ways to enjoy winter on the Shore with family or friends?

Mairangi Arts Centre always has something happening, and its gift shop is excellent for finding thoughtful little presents. November Café is a go-to for brunch. Of course, we love walking along the beautiful beaches, but somehow the wind often seems to blow us into Papa Brizio or Paper Moon on the way home for a bite to eat or a nightcap. newhavengardens.co.nz

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

www.goodtitle.co.nz hello@goodtitle.co.nz

Lake Road Electrical Lewis Rudall is the owner of Lake Road Electrical, a North Shore-based electrical contracting business. Originally from the UK, Lewis has called New Zealand home for many years and enjoys helping homeowners and local businesses with reliable, highquality electrical solutions. Outside work, he’s a proud dad of two who enjoys keeping active and spending time with family.

What are the top home projects readers should tackle now to be ready for spring?

Winter is a great time to upgrade old lighting to LEDs, check smoke alarms, service bathroom extractor fans and take care of any electrical jobs that have been put off. It’s also worth checking outdoor lighting and power points before everyone starts spending more time outside.

Channel Mag: Tell us about your business and what you love most about working on the North Shore.

Lewis Rudall: Lake Road Electrical specialises in residential electrical work, renovations, maintenance, lighting upgrades, EV chargers and small commercial projects.

I love working on the North Shore because of the strong sense of community. Many of our customers become repeat clients, and it’s rewarding knowing people trust us with their homes.

Are there any common mistakes you see people making when preparing their homes or gardens during winter?

The biggest mistake is ignoring small electrical issues. Faulty switches, ageing smoke alarms, poor ventilation and overloaded power boards are all things that should be addressed early before they become bigger or more expensive problems.

How does winter typically shape the kind of work or projects you’re involved in at this time of year?

Winter is one of our busiest times. We see a big increase in heating installations, extractor fan upgrades, lighting improvements and electrical faults caused by damp weather. It’s also a popular time for indoor renovations before spring arrives.

What small, achievable projects can make a big difference before the warmer months arrive?

Simple upgrades like LED lighting, sensor lights, new power points or replacing old switches can make a home feel more modern, improve safety and reduce energy costs. If you’re thinking about buying an electric vehicle, it’s also a good time to plan for home charging.

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Lewis Rudall

Are there any trends or popular upgrades you’re seeing locally this season?

We’re seeing more homeowners investing in EV chargers, energy-efficient LED lighting, improved bathroom ventilation and outdoor lighting. People are also looking for practical upgrades that improve comfort while helping to reduce power bills.

When you’re not working, what are your favourite ways to enjoy winter on the Shore with family or friends?

Most of my free time is spent with my two young kids, whether that’s getting outdoors, exploring local beaches and parks, or finding a good café. I also enjoy keeping fit through the gym and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is a great way to unwind after a busy week. lakeroadelectrical.co.nz

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ROLL OUT ROLL UNDER 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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Choose from a wide range of terminal colours to match your pools aesthetic while enjoying robust and compact design.

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THE POOL COVER EXPERTS YOU CAN TRUST Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

COVERSTAR AUTOMATIC POOL COVER Our swimming pool safety covers have the capacity to support the weight of an average-sized adult, offering complete assurance that your pool remains secure at all times.

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ABOVE-GROUND AUTOMATIC SLATTED COVER Perfect for both construction and renovation projects, available in solar or electric versions. The electric version features exclusive bollard lighting to enhance your pool and garden.

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sales@autopoolcovers.co.nz Charles Olliver 021 663 854 | Paulene Olliver 027 663 8605 www.covers4pools.co.nz channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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HOMES & GARDENS: LAKE ROAD ELECTRICAL

By Lewis Rudall, Master Electrician and Director at Lake Road Electrical

Top tips from Amanda Graham, Newhaven Gardens.

North Shore hedge trimming, garden tidy ups, planting, pruning and garden maintenance.

Home, gardens and DIY – the electrical upgrades that make life easier

Getting your garden ready for open homes

Brought to you by Lake Road Electrical August is the month when many of us start thinking about spring projects, the jobs we’ve been putting off, the spaces we want to refresh, and the little fixes that can make home life run more smoothly. And while DIY is great for the garden shed, painting, or a weekend declutter, there are some jobs best left to the professionals. Electrical work is one of them.

The good news? A few smart upgrades can make a big difference to how your home feels and functions. Outdoor lighting is a great place to start, especially if your garden is getting more use as the days begin to stretch out. Well-placed lighting can improve safety, highlight features in your landscaping, and make entertaining outside feel that little bit easier.

Inside the home, under-cabinet lighting, new power points in the right places, and modern switchgear can all help a house work better for the way you live. If you’re tackling a laundry, garage, or sleepout update, it’s often the electrical details that take a project from nearly there to properly finished.

Lewis’s tip: Before you start any DIY project, check whether it involves wiring, switchboards or power outlets. If it does, get a qualified electrician involved early; it can save time, money, and a fair bit of stress later on.

If your spring to-do list includes an electrical upgrade, Lake Road Electrical is here to help. Get in touch with the team today and let’s get your home ready for the season ahead.

Lewis Rudall - your friendly local electrician Lake Road Electrical - available 24/7 – available 24/7 029 128 7494 lakeroadelectrical.co.nz

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HOMES & GARDENS: NEWHAVEN GARDENS

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

Just as updating or staging the interior of your home can be useful, so spending a little time on your garden can make a world of difference and greatly boost your curb appeal.

You don’t have to go to huge lengths though; there are some very simple and straightforward ways to make a huge difference. Most buyers will certainly appreciate a garden that looks open, attractive, neat, and easy to care for. Here are the main steps you need to take to get your garden ship shape: Tidying: Remove any garden debris, perished trees and shrubs, broken or tired looking furniture. Rake up leaves, prune and dead head your shrubs.

Trimming: Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed back away from gutters and windows. Give your hedges and shrubs a nice sharp trim and if you have trees or shrubs along your driveway make sure they are trimmed back as much as possible so the driveway and paths feel more spacious and open.

Weeding and Mulching: Weed all garden beds and if possible cover with a nice thick layer of bark or mulch. This will not only keep the weeds away for longer, it really neatens the look of a garden, making everything look fresh, tidy and healthy.

Lawns: A freshly mown lawn is a must, while a wild unkempt lawn just makes buyers think of lost Sunday afternoons.

Cleaning: Give decks, paths and driveways a good wash or water blast. Now is also a great time to check for repairs to hard assets such as decks, fences, and retaining walls.

Additions: If your outdoor furniture is tired, broken or non existent it would be good to buy or borrow a nice fresh set, so buyers can envision themselves relaxing in their new home. Add a simple pop of colour with some seasonal flowers, or adding an outdoor mirror or sculpture can really finish off an entrance or make a gloomy corner much brighter and more inviting.

If you’d like help getting your gardens ‘sale ready’ get in touch with Amanda and the team.

Amanda Graham Newhaven Gardens Ltd 021 378969 instagram.com/newhavengardens/ amanda@newhavengardens.co.nz newhavengardens.co.nz

All-new electric ORA 5 SUV From $36,990 +ORC.

Available now at GWM North Shore.

North Shore

16 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna 09 442 3306 | www.gwmnorthshore.co.nz channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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LEGALLY SPEAKING: SCHNAUER & CO

By Alison Dymond - Director.

Is waiting to buy the best idea?

There’s an old saying in property: the best time to buy was yesterday; the second-best time is today. It’s a sentiment that feels particularly relevant in the current market. Across Auckland’s North Shore and beyond, many buyers and investors are waiting for the “perfect” moment, when confidence returns, prices begin rising, and the market is clearly on the move again.

The problem is that by the time a recovery is obvious, much of the opportunity has often already been captured.

Historically, quieter markets can offer some of the best buying conditions. With less competition, buyers typically have more choice, more time to carry out due diligence, and stronger negotiating power. Sellers may also be more open to flexible terms, creating opportunities that can be difficult to find when demand is high. For residential purchasers, this can mean securing a family home at a more favourable price than may be possible once confidence returns. For investors, softer conditions can provide the chance to acquire quality assets before increased competition pushes values higher.

The same principle applies to commercial property. While economic uncertainty can make some investors hesitant, experienced buyers understand that long-term success is usually driven by buying well rather than trying to perfectly predict market cycles. Strong locations, quality tenants, and sound fundamentals remain important regardless of short-term market sentiment.

Many property owners are also delaying a sale while they wait for prices to improve. While this can be the right strategy in some situations, a stronger market often benefits buyers and sellers alike. If you plan to sell and purchase another property, a softer market may actually create opportunities to upgrade, downsize, or reposition your portfolio more effectively.

Ultimately, the key is making decisions based on your goals, circumstances, and long-term plans, rather than trying to time the market perfectly. Property remains one of New Zealand’s most trusted pathways to building wealth, and successful buyers are often those who recognise and act on opportunities when they arise. At Schnauer & Co, we help clients navigate property transactions with confidence, providing practical guidance through every stage of the buying and selling process. Because when it comes to property, the right advice at the right time can be just as valuable as the property itself.

Thinking about your next move? We’d be happy to discuss your options and help you make an informed decision in today’s market.

1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna 09 486 0177 reception@schnauer.com schnauer.com

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

HEALTH MATTERS: WELL FOUNDATION NEWS

By Ruth Morse, CEO, Well Foundation

Nothing matters more than being close to your child when they are in hospital No parent expects to find themselves spending the night in hospital beside their sick child. But for hundreds of families across the North Shore every year, that's exactly where they end up.

What many people don't realise is that the Rangatira Children's Ward at Waitākere Hospital is the dedicated children's ward for the entire Waitematā region. Unless a child requires highly specialised care at Starship Hospital, this is where children from the North Shore, Rodney and West Auckland come for treatment.

Lie-flat overnight chairs allow parents to remain comfortably by their child's side

When a child is frightened, unwell or in pain, having mum, dad or another loved one close by provides comfort that medicine alone cannot.

A familiar face helps children feel safer, calmer and less anxious during what can be an overwhelming experience. The challenge is that while children have a bed, many parents are still trying to get through the night sitting upright in a chair, grabbing only moments of broken sleep before another nurse arrives, another alarm sounds or another comforting cuddle is needed.

Sarah, a local mum, shared her experience in Waitākere Hospital with us. "Being able to use the lie-flat chair bed when my little boy was in hospital recently made a huge difference. By the time you’re admitted to the ward when your child is sick, you’re already sleep deprived, so having somewhere comfortable to rest right next to your child’s bed is really important.”

That's why Well Foundation is raising funds for 18 new lie-flat overnight bed chairs. These specially designed chairs provide comfortable seating during the day and transform into a proper bed at night, allowing parents to rest beside their child without leaving the ward. Better rested parents are better able to support their children, children feel more secure, and the calmer environment benefits everyone, including the clinical teams caring for them.

Several generous local businesses have already funded chairs, but we still have more to go. If you'd like to help ensure no parent has to spend the night sleeping upright while caring for their child, we'd love your support.

To find out more or make a donation, visit wellfoundation.org.nz/beds. Together, we can help make hospital stays a little more comfortable for local families.

Well Foundation is the official charity of North Shore and Waitākere Hospitals 09 447 0138, info@wellfoundation.org.nz wellfoundation.org.nz

HEALTH AND WELLBEING: AUDIOLOGY WITH TERESA BURNS

By Teresa Burns, Doctor of Audiology, Director and owner of Teresa Burns Hearing Ltd.

Are you cleaning your ears the right way?

“How do you clean your ears?” is a question we sometimes ask in clinic. The answer is often, “I don’t. I was told not to clean them at all.”

There is a lot of confusion around ear care. While it’s true that you shouldn’t put anything inside your ear canal, that doesn’t mean your ears should be left completely untouched. The outer part of your ears can be cleaned just like the rest of your face.

A warm, damp facecloth with a little soap is all you need to gently clean around the outside of your ears and behind your ears.

This helps remove everyday build-up from skin oils, sweat and hair products. It is suitable for most people, unless you have been advised by your doctor to keep your ears dry or you have had ear surgery.

Avoid directing water straight into your ear.

The key is not to put anything inside your ear canal. Cotton buds, hair pins and other objects can push wax deeper into the ear, irritate the delicate skin and even cause injury. Your ears are designed to clean themselves naturally, so the aim is to support that process rather than interfere with it.

Ear wax is an important part of ear health. It helps protect the skin inside the ear by trapping dust and debris and preventing the ear canal from becoming too dry. Some people naturally produce more wax than others, and hearing aids can also contribute to build-up. If you notice blocked ears, muffled hearing or discomfort, we can check your ears and remove excess wax using microsuction.

Considered the gold standard for wax removal, our experienced Doctors of Audiology perform the procedure using a microscope for precise and gentle treatment.

Mention this Channel Mag column when booking and receive $10 off your ear wax removal appointment.

Call: (09) 475 9849 Unit B, Level 1, 25 Apollo Drive, Rosedale admin@teresaburnshearing.co.nz teresaburnshearing.co.nz

BUSINESS NORTH HARBOUR: NEWS

By Kevin O’Leary, General Manager, Business North Harbour

Economic resilience continues to be tested The ongoing geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East that reigns as I write this article continues to affect economies around the world, with New Zealand, despite our somewhat remote location, feeling the economic pressure as much as most. We’ve had some positive indications in recent times that our economy is picking up, but it seems that every time some positivity is identified, someone somewhere else in the world makes a decision that sets us back again.

I have some sympathy for the economists who are trying to predict the economic landscape that lies ahead, as their role has been and remains almost impossible due mainly to circumstances beyond their control. In the same vein, the Reserve Bank Of New Zealand (RBNZ) has the unenviable task of setting the Official Cash Rate (OCR) during these volatile times, as they continue to grapple with inflation which is also being fuelled largely by happenings offshore.

In July, the RBNZ decided to increase the OCR by 25 basis points to 2.5%, which was the first increase in three years, and further increases later this year which had previously been signalled as likely, now seem certain to happen. As these expected increases are implemented, it remains to be seen how interest rates at the banks will be affected, with many already building in increases prior to these future announcements.

For many businesses and households, the financial pressures they have been under for a long time show no real signs of easing by any significant degree, as the cost of living still bites into household budgets, restricting consumer spending. The knock-on effect of this for many businesses, as their income reduces and cashflow becomes more restricted, is that they have to remain in survival mode for longer, or any plans to expand or invest are put on hold.

With all that’s happening, it’s not difficult to see why our economic recovery has been and remains difficult and slow. Indeed, the financial pressures that people are encountering have probably been further exacerbated by the recent 7.9% average increase in household rates and the average increase in commercial rates of around 9.8%, especially when added to the increase of around 7.2% in water rates.

Many of Business North Harbour’s not-for-profit members report an increase in the demand for their services, particularly food rescue services and budgeting advice, further evidence if it were needed that an increasing number of people are struggling to make ends meet despite their best efforts.

I sincerely hope that we soon see a significant decrease in these financial pressures across the board and would again ask you to keep supporting our local businesses whenever you can. businessnh.org.nz 09 968 2222 027 479 9563 kevin@businessnh.org.nz

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OWN THE MOMENT. The GLE 300 d SUV, now from $129,900 driveaway, or just $362 per week with an Agility Loan from Mercedes-Benz Financial*.

Spacious and versatile for the daily commute, yet powerful and refined for longer journeys, it blends exceptional comfort with innovative cabin technology. With limited availability, the time to experience the current-generation GLE SUV is now.

Visit Mercedes-Benz North Shore today before this limited opportunity comes to an end.

Welcome home.

Mercedes-Benz North Shore, 16 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, 09 443 3808.

Advertised rate is based on the current promotional Drive Away price of $129,900, available on a new GLE 300 d 4MATIC sold and delivered before 30 September 2026, unless offer extended or while stock lasts. The Drive Away Price includes GST, pre-delivery costs, warrant of fitness, registration, full fuel tank, 3,000km of road user charges, and excludes the tyre stewardship fee. Offer excludes build-to-order, pre-owned vehicles, leasing products, fleet, government and rental buyers. Total amount payable $152,654.39, based on an upfront 15% deposit, final payment/residual value of $76,700 and finance at 7.85% interest p.a. plus PPSR fee of $10.35 and documentation fee of $395.00. Payments made monthly. Restricted to approved customers of MBFSNZ Ltd on a 36 month Agility Loan. Standard credit assessment and lending criteria apply. Guaranteed Future Value is Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz subject to Fair Wear & Tear return conditions and Excess Kilometre charges calculated at $0.50/km in excess of the 15,000km per annum allowance.

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SHORE TRAVEL MILFORD

Mid-winter inspiration:

Where will your next journey take you?

As the cooler months settle in, there's no better time to dream about your next escape. Whether you're planning a relaxing beach holiday, an unforgettable adventure, or the journey of a lifetime, the world is full of incredible experiences waiting to be discovered.

Today's travel options are more exciting than ever. Cruise lovers can choose from intimate expedition ships exploring remote coastlines, luxurious small ships, all-inclusive voyages, or the vibrant atmosphere of larger ocean liners.

River cruising continues to grow in popularity, offering the perfect 'floating hotel' experience, as you unpack just once while sailing through some of the world's most fascinating cities, villages and landscapes, stepping ashore each day to experience local culture, history and cuisine.

If you're seeking authentic cultural experiences, small group touring offers a wonderful way to travel. Expert local guides, likeminded travellers and carefully crafted itineraries take you beyond the tourist hotspots, connecting you with local communities and hidden gems while taking the stress out of planning.

Perhaps it's time to tick off a bucket-list adventure. Witness the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica or the Arctic, experience an African safari, explore the vibrant cultures of South America, or discover Europe's timeless charm.

Closer to home, Australia and the Pacific Islands remain favourite choices for an easy getaway, while Thailand, Bali and Vietnam offer exceptional value with rich cultures and tropical warmth. North America also promises unforgettable experiences, from Alaska cruises and the majestic Rocky Mountains to California's sunshine, New York City's iconic sights, spectacular national parks and magical winter holidays.

If you're looking for inspiration, expert advice and the latest travel trends, join us at Shore Travel's upcoming Travel Expo evening (details below).

Meet leading cruise lines, tour operators and travel specialists, discover exclusive offers, and start planning your next unforgettable journey.

Shore Travel Flights • Accommodation • Tours • Cruises • Tailored Experiences Phone: 09 489 2597 Email: hello@shoretravel.co.nz

The Travel Lounge FREE Mid-Winter Travel Expo Evening Thursday 20 August | 5pm – 7pm Pupuke Golf Club, Drop in anytime Join Shore Travel for an exciting evening of travel inspiration. Meet leading travel experts, discover incredible destinations, and start planning your next journey.

Cruises | Tours | Expeditions | Tailor-Made Trips Attendees go in the draw for door prizes.

Register at: hello@shoretravel.co.nz or Phone: (09) 489 2597 www.shoretravel.co.nz

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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MILFORD SHOPS NEWS

Your monthly update from Murray Hill, Manager of Milford Business Association.

What’s new in Milford this month This month we welcome Cravehome to our main street. It’s a store with a great reputation, having been in Birkenhead for some time. Here’s how they describe themselves: "Inspiring homeware and gifts".

Cravehome is a contemporary homewares store packed with all the finishing touches you need to beautify your home, gorgeous gifts for the ones you love and special treats for you.

Inside you'll find stunning home design and inspiring handpicked home decor pieces, .

Come and welcome them – located on the main street, in the former premises of Arazzo Back for another year is our Track Day promotion in conjunction with our premium partner, Mercedes-Benz North Shore. This year the event will be held at the Hampton Downs circuit in November, so get dad in the draw and give him this awesome prize for his Father's Day gift. Or if you love the performance vehicles – a benchmark of the Mercedes-Benz range – bring your loved one shopping in Milford.

While you enter the draw, see the vehicles on display in the centre court of the Milford Centre mall.

…bring your loved one shopping in Milford.

While you enter the draw, see the vehicles on display in the centre court of the Milford Centre mall.

I was lucky enough to be invited to last year’s event, and I have to say it was an exceptional experience, driving all types of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in a variety of different situations. The best was the G-Wagon experience of turning it 360 degrees on its own axis. Incredible technology. Just what you would expect from the automotive leader, which celebrated 140 years in business this year.

David Schnauer, a well-known local Milford identity, has written a book called ‘Uncomfortable Economics’ where he looks beyond election cycles and short-term fixes, and calls for a renewed national focus on savings, housing, public debt, productivity and long-term policy discipline. He challenges both politicians and citizens to lift their sights and demand more from our economy. It was launched at The Booklover, Milford at the end of July and is available there and in all good bookstores. Check it out – it’s a great read!

What’s On in Milford – August 2026: Milford Motel • Quiz Night every Tuesday.

• $25 Steak Night with sides every Wednesday.

• $25 Sunday Roast, Sunday from 3pm (until sold out).

• $15 Spritz from 4pm-6pm, Tuesday–Sunday.

La Mexicana • Weekend brunch at La Mexicana, Saturday and Sunday 11am-2pm.

• Dinner seven days a week.

Milford Cruising Club • Live music with Serene Boulton, Friday 21 August.

• FREE weekly quiz or Bingo, Thursday nights.

• Restaurant open, Thursday and Friday evenings, from 5.30pm.

• Family friendly, locals are welcome to visit and sign in as a guest.

• Check their FB page for more details.

Milford Shopping Mall – 3 exciting activations • From Runway to Milford.

• Made for Dad. • Father’s Day Track Day. Murray Hill, Manager, Milford Business Association manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz facebook milfordshops Instagram milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV

T H E M I L F O R D B U S I N E S S A S S O C I AT I O N A P P R E C I AT E S T H E S U P P O R T O F : GOLD

SILVER

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

NOW OPEN IN MILFORD • NEXT TO COLLEEN MURPHY FLORIST FATHER'S DAY IDEA

SHOP TO WIN A

THANKS TO

A Track Day

Test driving the Mercedes-Benz Range

We've teamed up with Mercedes-Benz North Shore to give you the chance to win Dad and a mate an awesome experience at Hampton Downs, experiencing the Mercedes-Benz range. More information is available on our Instagram and Facebook page.

Follow @milfordshopsnz for the latest updates!

channelmag.co.nz Issue 177 - August 2026

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BUSINESS FOCUS: DEVONPORT

AVENTINE Coins & Bullion

N e w Z e a l a n d ’s R a re C o i n & Banknote Dealership Global Public Auctions Outright Purchases

Roasted locally, since 1997

I n s u r a n c e Va l u a t i o n s E s t a t e Va l u a t i o n s & Handling Authorised Dealer by NGC & PMG

3 1 E B a r t l e y Tc e D e v o n p o r t 0 6 2 4 • S a l e s @ Av e n t i n e . c o . n z

Visit us in Devonport 20 Wynyard Street, Devonport Mon-Fri 7:00am-2:00pm Saturday 7:30am-1:00pm - Closed Sundays chiasso.co.nz

Waitematā Golf Club

New crew member

NOW SERVING CHIASSO COFFEE OPEN 7-DAYS A WEEK 7AM-2PM

We’re welcoming Louise to our team and the village.

Your local lawyers for general law since 1990 chapmanjones.co.nz

Modern bar & eatery.

Iconic setting.

24 Victoria Road, Devonport Open 11:30am – late everyday 09 445 0193 | info@signalhill.co.nz signalhill.co.nz

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

Ear Health, Devonport 82 Lake Road, Narrow Neck Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5pm Sat & Sun: Closed www.earhealth.co.nz | 09 242 0866

FOCUS ON DEVONPORT Fresh batch off the roaster

The Chiasso crew, off duty

Find the sign on Wynyard Street, Devonport

Roasted right here on the Shore For nearly 30 years, the smell of freshly roasted coffee has drifted from a small roastery on Wynyard Street. Chiasso Coffee Roasters has been part of Devonport’s morning ritual since 1997.

“We’re local, we’re independent, and we’ve been at this since 1997.” That’s how the family-owned roastery sums itself up. Brendan McKellar started the business back in ’97; today it’s run by his stepson Jono Norton, Jono’s wife Jaime and their business partner Ryan Murray, with Brendan still working in the roastery some days. Beans are roasted in small batches across two Shore sites: the original Wynyard Street store, home to a New Zealand–made Stonka roaster, and a dedicated Hillcrest roastery, where a custom Italian roaster, handmade in Occhiobello, was added a decade ago as demand grew. Either way, every bag is roasted right here on the Shore.

“We’re not a big corporation, and we’re not chasing volume,” says owner Jono. “We’re here because we genuinely love great coffee and want more people to experience it. Nothing is rushed. We take as long as it takes to get every roast exactly right.”

The sourcing is just as uncompromising: nothing gets roasted unless it earns its place. It shows across six signature blends: Milano, the mostawarded all-rounder; Metro, the original ’97 blend built for milk; Il Capo, “The Boss”, an old-school espresso; dark and smoky Forte; and two certified organic blends, Dolce and Pascolo. “Anyone can claim organic, and plenty do,” says Jono. “We went and got BioGro certified to prove it.”

The Wynyard Street shop is part espresso bar, part working roastery and part brew-gear treasure trove, with everything from hand grinders and stovetops to serious espresso machines, plus barista training and wholesale support for cafés across New Zealand.

Dedication to quality has earned Chiasso Coffee a 4.8-star rating

from more than 250 verified customer reviews.

Ryan Murray joined the business initially as the Devonport manager and is now general manager and part-owner, heading up an amazing team that knows its regulars by name and prides itself on quick, friendly service: great coffee, served fast, always.

August is midwinter, the season to slow down a little and savour every last sip. It suits slower weekend brewing: filter machines and stovetops for unhurried mornings, and Caravan hot chocolate to keep the kids happy while the grown-ups linger over a second flat white.

“Devonport has been good to us for nearly 30 years,” says Ryan.

“Every bag of Chiasso coffee is roasted here on the Shore, just days before it reaches you, not months. You can taste the difference.”

The full range, including subscriptions and nationwide delivery, is at chiasso.co.nz.

Whether it’s a flat white at the counter, beans for home or gear for the serious enthusiast, the focus hasn’t changed since 1997: fresh, consistent coffee that tastes good every day.

And Channel Mag readers get a head start: 10% off your online coffee order with the code CHANNEL. Chiasso Coffee Roasters 20 Wynyard Street, Devonport Mon–Fri 7am–2pm. Saturday 7:30am–1pm.

Closed Sundays and public holidays 09 445 1816 coffee@chiasso.co.nz chiasso.co.nz

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Interview | NZBlood

Donating for life

By Christine Young

North Shore Hospital used 5000 units of red blood cells in the past year, along with hundreds of units of other blood products, such as platelets, plasma and plasma-derived products, in life saving and life preserving procedures that range from cancer treatments, to operations and emergency trauma situations. All that blood is donated. Demand fluctuates – and red blood cells only have a shelf life of 35 days, so constant replenishment is vital; nationwide, the country needs around 27,000 donors each year. Christine Young talks to two donors who have each clocked up an impressive number of donations, and finds the process is both straightforward and rewarding.

Finn Grigor is more aware than most of us of the need for blood donations. He is a nurse in public healthcare, and has been registered with NZBlood (New Zealand Blood Service) for a decade. “I work in the operating rooms, and I've seen many accidents and traumatic surgeries where life-saving measures are required. Surgically we can do so much, but without blood products available it would be for nothing. I donate because I know it's essential for helping our population and country Seeing [blood] used to save a life, knowing there are family, friends, kids, waiting to see our patient on the other side is a huge motivator to donate and that there are always blood products available.”

A secondary motivator: his dad also donates, “and I'm determined to keep up with his number of donations; he's well over 200 so I still have a way to go!” Finn donates plasma rather than whole blood, and has given 129 plasma donations.

Finn explains that donating whole blood is generally a shorter procedure. In a blood donation all the cells (red, white, and platelets), and the fluid (plasma) is taken. “These cells can only be donated every three months,” he explains, to allow the body to replenish them. “Plasma is a longer procedure, sometimes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Plasma is the ‘liquid gold’ flowing through us.

It's primarily

Lewis Catterall

58

Peter Fraher gives his 109th blood donation

water, but filled with the electrolytes, nutrients, and proteins that keep our body running and balanced. When plasma is donated, the whole blood is taken in smaller quantities, centrifuged to separate the plasma from blood, and the red blood cells and platelets are returned to your body. Since smaller quantities are taken and returned, there are a number of cycles required to extract enough plasma to help others. It also requires a bit more set up compared to whole blood…. Plasma is easier for the body to replace though, and allows for donations every two weeks.”

We as individuals donate for the betterment of the country and the individuals within it. It's a selfless act that only takes a small amount of time and can save lives.

Finn donates plasma due to his blood type. “I'm AB+ [AB positive], which is quite an uncommon blood type (around 3% of the population). Only certain blood types can be safely donated to other blood types. With blood donations, O negative is a universal donor, able to give their blood to everyone with very low risk of reaction. With plasma donations, AB+ is the universal donor, able to give their plasma and blood products to everyone. Since I'm AB+, and being able to donate every two weeks, it seemed the most logical way to help the most people.”

“For me, the donations take around one hour,” says Finn. ”The first 10 minutes or

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

Finn Grigor gives a plasma donation

so are interview and setting up the machine to take the plasma, and then 40 minutes for donation, and a small time at the end where the dressing is applied and I finish my snacks!”

Finn believes that New Zealand has a “fantastic process to make sure we have some of the safest blood products worldwide.

There are some requirements, such as height, weight, having a stable haemoglobin level, and not having blood illnesses that may be infectious or cause abnormal clotting. You can walk in to an NZBlood centre (or go to the website), ask, and you'll get a questionnaire for eligibility about donating blood.”

Donating is voluntary and unpaid. “I think if we were paid to donate, it would take away from one of the quintessential values I hold about Aotearoa…. We donate because we care, not just about ourselves, but for those who need help. If money was offered, more people may donate, but that would mean the money has to come from somewhere too.” That said, NZBlood offers rewards for reaching milestones. Finn has earned an umbrella, a backpack, sports bag, beanie, socks, and a limited edition print. “Even without these rewards I would donate, but they really do give an incentive!”

But above all, he says, “We as individuals donate for the betterment of the country and the individuals within it. It's a selfless act that only takes a small amount of time and can save lives. I've donated with my partner, my sister, my dad, some of my coworkers. Going together can make it more enjoyable [while] doing something that helps everyone. To those who have never donated or haven't in a while, take a book, take a friend, listen to a podcast, take half an hour to an hour out of your day,

and make a difference to someone needing it.

Feel better knowing you can make others feel better too. If you can donate, do it for those who can't.”

Peter Fraher is another long serving North Shore blood donor – sufficiently long serving that he’s vague about when he first donated, but says it was perhaps in the late 1960s. He displays the tally of 109 donations on his NZBlood app, that updates every time he donates, and alerts him when he's due to donate again.

Channel Magazine recently talked to Peter as managing director of Abilities.

Clearly Peter’s commitment to community goes beyond the work he does with people with disabilities. As far as Peter is concerned it was and is simply a matter of his being healthy enough, and “a good community thing to do, if you can”.

Peter says that one of the benefits as he heads into his late seventies is, if nothing else, the quarterly prompt to have his health checked. Once you’re a senior, there’s a regular process of checking blood pressure, iron levels and filling out a general health questionnaire. A while ago, when his iron levels dropped, he had to stop donating for a while. Once they recovered, he resumed his regular donations. It’s just part of what he does, though he’s currently on a mission to change the rule that there is an age limit (looming in a couple of years for him) for

Lewis coordinates plasma donors like Emma.

donors. The ability to donate should, he believes, be based on your state of health.

Not age.

Peter can’t imagine why anyone healthy enough wouldn’t donate. Just think if you needed blood urgently, he says. It’s only 40-45 minutes, “sometimes quicker”, once every three months at the most.

Peter is an advocate for donating as part of a group, as Finn often does, and applauds Lewis Catterall, donor relations coordinator for NZBlood on Lake Road in Takapuna for an initiative that aims to give people “a bit of a nudge” to begin (or continue) donating.

‘Team Red’ is designed to encourage regular donors, like Peter, to get a team together and donate blood as a group. Peter has set up the ‘Reluctants’, enlisting a small group of new donors to enjoy the camaraderie of donating together, and the post-donation tea and biscuits. He’d like to double the number in his group, noting that increasing the group by even one member increases the number of donations by four times each year. He exhorts others to set up their own workplace or social groups to emulate his efforts.

As Peter points out, if you need a blood transfusion, through accident or illness, artificial blood is not an option; it must be the real thing. In donating blood, you’re helping someone who needs it, and feeling good about contributing to community at the same time.

SOME QUICK FACTS: More than 7000 people from the North Shore currently give blood, but donor relations coordinator Lewis Catterall says they’d love to see that number go up. “We're especially keen for more plasma donors, as demand for plasma has increased over recent years. The most common and in-demand blood groups are A+ and O+; however, all blood groups are important, so it's crucial to keep them all in stock.”

Plasma is used to create up to 11 different products and treat up to 50 illnesses. When you donate plasma, you donate using a special machine where the red blood cells and platelets are returned to your body and the plasma only is collected into the bag.

Platelets are small cells in the blood, and are used to prevent bleeding. The platelet donation process is similar to donating plasma where NZBlood uses a machine to just take the platelets and return the rest of your blood back to your body.

NZBlood has a range of eligibility requirements, including age, health, weight, and travel-related criteria, to protect the health of both donors and recipients. You can check whether you meet the basic criteria using the quiz on the NZBlood website – “but please note your eligibility is ultimately determined by our nurses before your donation,” Lewis says.

Donate plasma at 441 Lake Road, Takapuna.

Book at nzblood.co.nz

Together they save lives.

NZB8117 April Plasma Lewis and Emma_A4.indd 1

22/04/2026 12:21 PM

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Simon Watts National Party MP & Candidate for North Shore

I’m proud to serve the North Shore and I’m focused on practical solutions that help local families get ahead.

Delivering for the North Shore National is getting things done for the North Shore electorate: Helping ease cost of living pressures through responsible economic management.

Backing North Shore businesses to strengthen our local economy.

Supporting stronger action on crime to keep our communities safe.

Supporting higher education standards so our children can succeed.

Advocating for better transport connections and investment to reduce congestion across the Shore.

Championing frontline health services for North Shore families.

Protecting the Hauraki Gulf and North Shore coastline for future generations.

www.national.org.nz/team/simonwatts 60

Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

Authorised by S Watts, simon.watts@national.org.nz

I’m proud to serve as your Member of Parliament for North Shore. This is my home, where my wife Shannon and I are raising our two children, and it’s a community I’m deeply committed to.

Like many on the Shore, I’ve balanced work, family, and community commitments, and I see the pressures households are facing right now. That’s why I’m focused on delivering practical results that make a real difference.

I’m working to grow our local economy, ease the cost of living, and ensure the North Shore gets the investment it needs to thrive.

Before entering Parliament, I worked as a chartered accountant and held senior roles in global banking and markets, both in New Zealand and overseas. After returning home, I trained as a paramedic and continue to serve as a volunteer with St John.

I later served as Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Health NZ - Waitematā, gaining hands-on experience managing large, complex organisations and public health services.

Since being elected in 2020, I’ve worked hard to be a strong local voice for the North Shore, while also serving as Minister for Energy, Auckland, Climate, Local Government and Revenue.

Dan Bidois National Party MP & Candidate for Northcote The Northcote electorate is the best place in New Zealand to live, work and raise a family. I am aspirational for our community and want it to be even better in the future – for you, our children and our grandchildren.

I ask for your support and vote in this year’s election to continue being your local voice and champion as part of a National-led government. I love this place and will continue to work hard for you, our community and our country.

National is delivering for our community by: Growing the economy and household incomes Improving outcomes in education and health Ensuring our community is safe Reducing congestion and improving public transport Responsibily managing the government’s finances

As a local resident, I have a real passion for improving our community, local business and environment.

I was born, adopted, and raised in Auckland to working class parents. After dropping out of high school at 15 years of age, I completed a butchery apprenticeship.

In my 20’s, I graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) before being awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to attend Harvard University, where I gained a Master of Public Policy in Economics.

Originally elected in 2018, and again in 2023, I am the current Deputy Chair of Parliament’s Finance and Expenditure Select Committee and a member of the Transport & Infrastructure Select Committee.

Prior to Parliament, I worked as an independent management consultant, a senior executive and in economist roles for the OECD in Paris, several economic think-tanks and Deloitte.

I live in Birkenhead with my wife Courtney, my son Noah and dog Mylo.

www.national.org.nz/team/danbidois Authorised by D Bidois, dan.bidois@national.org.nz

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Interview | MS Awareness Week

Sam ready to referee

Battle of the Boots

Anita Hedges

By Christine Young

Christine Young talks to MS Auckland (Multiple Sclerosis Auckland) ambassador Sam Smith and MS Auckland board member Anita Hedges (both of whom are from the Shore) ahead of MS Auckland’s Awareness Week in September, during which both feature as players in the ‘Battle of the Boots’ event at Birkenhead UFC. Sam is a comedian, MC, podcaster, children’s author, television star, musician, and raconteur extraordinaire. He has poor vision, part of his experience of multiple sclerosis, which he was diagnosed with just over a decade ago. Anita was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2023. After tests and a referral to a neurologist, Anita, like Sam, now receives an infusion every six months, which has stabilised her condition and has allowed her to not only continue working as an IT consultant implementing Salesforce for a global sustainability consultancy, but also to challenge herself physically, taking on two Hyrox competitions in the last couple of years. “It’s not always easy as there are side effects like fatigue, pins and needles, and managing stress, but it’s manageable. And most importantly, it works.” (Read Anita’s full story at msakl.org.nz/ stories/anita-hedges) Sam and Anita agree that when someone is diagnosed with MS, it affects their whole family. MS Auckland works hard to develop a strong community feeling with events such as Battle of the Boots, and through its network of support workers. Sam says that in connecting with MS Auckland he felt he had joined a gang.

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“I didn’t choose to join it, but once I was part of it, I felt I belonged.”

They both say that getting the diagnosis can be scary, especially if you know nothing about MS at the time. But they have positive advice for anyone in their situation: “Focus on doing the things you want to do, and don’t slow down,” says Sam. “Take one day at a time,” says Anita. “It’s overwhelming at the beginning; try not to get overwhelmed by all the information coming your way. Be kind to yourself. I read up on everything I could so I knew what to expect, and then got on with living life… I’ve got a young family; I’ve got one life, and I put my focus on living that life.”

As Sam explained when Channel Mag talked to him two years ago, multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of the nerves. MS is different for each person. For some it impacts their ability to walk; others lose, as Sam initially did, sensation in different parts of the body. For Sam, it resulted in his losing most of his vision – not that this stopped him refereeing the first Battle of the Boots event last year, though he confesses he may not always have been the ideal ref.

Battle of the Boots is a fun and fund-raising day for MS Auckland, an idea floated by Sam a couple of years ago. Remember – he’s a comedian, and he made the suggestion only semi- (if that) seriously at a meeting where the MS team was looking for a fundraiser. As he tells it, Birkenhead United had been running

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bingo nights to support MS Auckland at the club for many years. He suggested a football match and suddenly found himself not only with a widely accepted great idea – but the great challenge of finding players to take part.

Last year, and again this year, he leaned heavily on his comedy and media mates. The talent he (and others) attracted was, he says, “Better than I thought it would be!”

Sam also found (or appointed?) himself as referee. He confesses he had to “ask who kicked the ball out, and rely on the linesmen occasionally”. He also “awarded a penalty that was apparently a bit suspect”. Oh, and there was a quiet word to the ref from one of the team coaches at one stage. Sam acknowledged the advice with a casual, “Thanks Ted.” (Ted? Yes, the coach in question was the great Sir Graham Henry. His wife, netball luminary Lady Raewyn, who coached the opposing team, is an MS Auckland ambassador alongside Sam.) Anita was also in the line-up as a player last year, and has put her hand up to take part again. She was on Sir Graham’s team and is pleased she will be again this year. Anita became involved with MS Auckland after her diagnosis, as did Sam. Both say there is a powerful sense of community and support for those diagnosed, and their families. One of the community mentors learned that Anita had a young family, and dropped off age-appropriate literature to help Anita’s children understand what was happening to their mother’s health.

“The support MS Auckland has given me is incredible,” Anita says, and when she was asked to speak about her experience at a

fundraising lunch hosted by Raewyn Henry, she was pleased to contribute. And when the opportunity came up to run for the MS Auckland board a few months ago, “I put my hand up and was elected”. Later this year, she’ll take part in the international Oceans of Hope – five days sailing around the Hauraki Gulf, in which the the entire crew has MS. She claims she is currently in “listening and learning” mode as far as the MS Auckland board is concerned. But just as when she was approached to speak last year, so she jumped at the opportunity when she was approached to play in the inaugural Battle of the Boots last year. It may have helped that one of the things she had focused on after her diagnosis was building her fitness. Last year she took on a Hyrox relay challenge and this year entered as one of a doubles combination.

It’s a case of been there, done that as far as Hyrox is concerned, as it was tougher than she had anticipated – and the recovery period was longer due to MS. But a football game?

How hard could that be? “It was the first ever football match I had played in,” she says, “– and it will be the second ever this year.”

She loved it, and says “It was awesome to be able to meet New Zealand celebrities who were also playing.” But it was a case of in at the deep end. “There were no training sessions, we collected our kit, and then it was game

Battle of the Boots in action 2025

day!” Anita was on Sir Graham Henry’s team, and pre-game he put down a few rules about playing and staying safe. “He said we weren’t professional athletes and had to remember we had to work the next week!”

As for the aforementioned referee, well – he was on the field, but Anita reports that he was filming for social media as he was reffing.

No wonder there were some dubious calls.

Perhaps that’s why Sam’s “handing ref duties to a proper ref” this year.

Sam is still very much involved – this year as a player as well as talent scout. “I can still play a fuzzy game of football,” he claims. “The team colours are orange and teal, so I can see who to pass the ball to.”

As for his fellow teammates, "Well, I’m the selectors,” he says. “I call all my celebrity mates, comedians, actors and people involved in MS Auckland.” He name-drops a few: Jono of Jono and Ben fame, Shane Cortese, Pax Asadi, Bree Tomasel (New Zealand-based Australian radio host, television personality and author, perhaps best known here as a ZM presenter, described by Sam as a “secret football hooligan”), and Taskmaster Paul Williams.

Sam promises spectators will see “quality celebrities and quality football”.

“We get celebrities who come to have a kick around and have fun, but the comedians rise to the competitive element introduced by ‘serious’

players.” Perhaps the presence on-field last year of Auckland Football Club (AFC) chief executive Nick Becker or a first-grade Chilean footballer contributed to that. “To have that in our little game is incredible,” says Sam. The fundraising side of the game is crucial to keeping MS Auckland “alive and functioning", says Sam. “It makes a massive difference to the society.” The players get sponsorship from people (or companies) who then get their names on the player’s shirt. Then there’s a raffle, auction and spot prizes, with prizes and auction items donated by a range of sponsors, organisations and individuals. Sports paraphernalia is high on the list; last year, AFC season tickets were on offer, among many other items.

“It’s such a great day,” Sam enthuses.

“Musicians perform in the clubrooms afterwards. And there’s the bar… The Birkenhead UFC set-up is so good; there’s a great view out over the grounds.”

Battle of the Boots, Sunday 13 September, Birkenhead United Football Club, 1-5pm msakl.org.nz/events/battle-of-the-boots-2026

Anita Hedges assesses her 2025 game-day shirt

Sir Graham Henry offers referee Sam Smith a few tips

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BIRKENHEAD COLLEGE NEWS

David Burton

Birkenhead College welcomes our new principal Birkenhead College is delighted to welcome Mr David Burton as our new principal starting in Term 4.

For Mr Burton, this is more than a new role; it's a return to a school and community he knows and values. Having previously spent almost six years at Birkenhead College as assistant principal and deputy principal, he is excited to be back leading the school into its next chapter.

Mr Burton is passionate about creating a school where every student feels known, supported, challenged, and inspired to achieve their personal best.

Most recently, Mr Burton has been associate principal at Westlake Girls High School, where he helped lead significant improvements in student achievement and learning. His commitment to high expectations, innovation, and ensuring every young person has the opportunity to succeed contributed to the school receiving national recognition for excellence in educational leadership.

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What makes this appointment especially meaningful is Mr Burton's strong connection to our local community. He lives on the North Shore with his family, his children attend Kauri Park School, and he serves on its board. You'll also find him supporting his children on the sports field at Birkenhead United and Northcote Rugby. He understands what local families value because he is one of them.

Mr Burton is passionate about creating a school where every student feels known, supported, challenged, and inspired to achieve their personal best. He believes Birkenhead College has enormous potential and is committed to working alongside students, staff, whānau, and the wider community to build on the school's proud traditions while embracing exciting opportunities for the future.

"My time at Birkenhead College was among the most rewarding of my career, and returning as principal is a tremendous honour.

As a local parent and resident, I'm passionate about ensuring every family can have complete confidence that their local college provides outstanding opportunities for every young person to thrive."

HEALTH & WELLBEING: NORTHSPAN WELLBEING

Turning exam stress into confidence: One young person's journey "I realised I couldn't change everything that was happening around me," Sam* says now, looking back. "But I could change how I responded to it." Those words come from a 13-year-old who, only months earlier, could barely bring himself to walk through the school gates.

Sam had been dealing with ongoing bullying, the kind that doesn't always show up as a single dramatic incident, but wears away at a young person's confidence day by day. It affected his focus in class, his sense of self, and, as exams drew closer, his ability to cope at all.

By the time he came to Northspan Wellbeing, his anxiety had reached a point where even getting through the school day felt like a battle.

What struck his counsellor most, though, wasn't the difficulty Sam was facing; it was his determination to do something about it.

A safe space to be heard Working alongside a Northspan counsellor, Sam began a series of individual counselling sessions built around a strengths-based, traumainformed approach. Rather than focusing only on the problem, the sessions helped him build resilience, recognise the early signs of stress, and develop practical, real-world strategies for the moments that felt hardest to manage.

Session by session, Sam and his counsellor explored his personal strengths, his goals, and better ways to navigate the pressures piling up around him: schoolwork, social dynamics, and the quiet weight of just trying to get through each day. It's slow, deliberate work. And it's exactly the kind of work that, over time, adds up to real change.

Building confidence, one step at a time As the weeks went on, Sam started to notice the shift himself. He began to understand how his thoughts, feelings, and behaviours were connected, and, more importantly, what he could actually do about it.

He learned to spot the early signs of stress before they took hold, and to respond to difficult moments in healthier, steadier ways.

By the time exams arrived, something had changed. Sam felt equipped, not because the pressure had disappeared, but because he now had the tools to meet it. He'd also started identifying the goals and values that would help guide his choices going forward.

His counsellor, Gemma Neuendorf, has seen this shift many times before, and it never gets any less meaningful. "One of the most rewarding parts of working with young people is watching them recognise their own strengths," she says. "Sam gained real confidence in his ability to manage challenges, and started to see a future for himself that wasn't defined by the difficulties he'd been through."

Not every challenge disappears overnight. But these early gains gave Sam something durable to build on: a foundation for continued growth, wellbeing and success.

Why early support matters Here's something we wish more families knew: young people don't need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling.

Often, the most powerful support is the kind that arrives early, before stress, anxiety, or emotional difficulties have the chance to snowball. Timely help doesn't just ease the moment. It hands young people tools they'll carry with them for life.

At Northspan Wellbeing, we see this play out again and again.

Early intervention helps young people build resilience, grow their selfconfidence, strengthen their coping skills, and lift their overall wellbeing.

And sometimes, the biggest outcome of all is simply helping a young person realise they're not facing life's challenges alone.

Supporting our school communities It's this belief that led us to launch a koha-based pre-exam wellbeing programme for secondary schools across Auckland.

Held as interactive evening sessions, the programme runs parallel presentations for students and parents. Students learn practical strategies for managing stress, anxiety and feeling overwhelmed during exam season. At the same time, parents gain insight into adolescent wellbeing and emotional development, along with simple, everyday ways to support their young person through demanding periods.

The response has been heartening. Schools across Auckland have already shown strong interest, a clear sign of just how much appetite there is for professional wellbeing support within our school communities.

Need support?

Whether you're a parent noticing changes in your child, a young person navigating stress or anxiety of your own, or a school looking to support your wider community, Northspan Wellbeing is here to help.

Our experienced team provides professional, caring counselling and wellbeing services for children, young people, adults, families, workplaces, and communities across Auckland. As a social enterprise connected to the Wingspan Trust, every session booked with us also helps fund vital community mental health support, meaning your visit helps others access care too.

To learn more, book an appointment, or enquire about our school wellbeing programme, visit Northspan Wellbeing or get in touch with our team today.

Because every young person deserves the chance to thrive, not just survive.

For more information or to book an appointment, go to northspanwellbeing.org.nz *To protect his privacy, we've given this young person the name 'Sam'.

His story is shared with permission.

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Feature | Channel Youth

Internship ready:

By Fantasia Nair

How to stand out from the crowd Landing an internship can feel like a full-time job in itself. With hundreds of students applying for the same opportunities, it's easy to wonder what makes one application stand out from another. The good news? You don't need years of experience to impress employers.

A well-prepared application, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn can go a long way.

The first step is making sure every application is tailored to the role. It can be tempting to send the same CV and cover letter to multiple employers, but recruiters can quickly tell when an application has been copied and pasted. Instead, take the time to read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experiences that best match what the employer is looking for. Even small changes can make your application feel more genuine and show you've done your research.

Many students also underestimate the value of their existing experience. You don't need to have worked in an office or completed a previous internship to be a strong candidate. Part-time jobs, volunteering, sports teams, student clubs, and university projects all help build transferable skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership and time management. Employers know interns are still learning; they're often more interested in your potential than your experience.

Research is another way to stand out.

Before applying or attending an interview, spend some time learning about the organisation. Read about its values, recent achievements, and the work it does. Being able to explain why you want to work for that specific organisation shows genuine

interest and helps you answer interview questions with confidence.

Speaking of interviews, preparation is key. Many employers ask behavioural questions, such as "Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team," or "Describe a challenge you've overcome." Think about examples from your work, study, or extracurricular activities before the interview, and use them to demonstrate your skills. It's also a good idea to prepare a few thoughtful questions of your own. Asking about the company culture, opportunities to learn, or what a typical day looks like shows you're engaged and curious.

Networking can also play an important role in finding internship opportunities.

Attending career expos, connecting with professionals on LinkedIn, or speaking with lecturers and alumni can introduce you to

opportunities that aren't always advertised.

Building professional connections might feel intimidating at first, but every conversation is a chance to learn and grow your network.

Finally, remember that rejection is a normal part of the process. It's disappointing to receive a "no," but it doesn't mean you're not capable. Many successful professionals applied for multiple internships before securing the right opportunity. Every application helps you improve your CV, strengthen your interview skills, and gain confidence for the next one.

Internships are designed to help students learn, so don't wait until you feel 'qualified enough' before applying. Believe in your abilities, put your best foot forward, and don't be afraid to take a chance. The internship you apply for today could be the first step towards the career you've been working towards.

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.

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Education | Carmel College

Carmel Day 2026:

celebrating our Mercy heritage On Friday 26 June, the Carmel College community came together to celebrate Carmel Day, honouring the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the patroness of our school and the Sisters of Mercy who founded it. This special day provided an opportunity to reflect on our Catholic and Mercy heritage, celebrate our community, and recognise those who exemplify our values through their actions and service.

Carmel Day Mass The day began with our Carmel Day Mass, where students and staff gathered in prayer and thanksgiving.

During the mass, we also acknowledged members of our community who have demonstrated Mercy in Action and faithfully lived our values throughout the year.

This year's Mercy Award recipients were: • Sandra Fernandes – Community Recipient For her outstanding dedication, leadership, and commitment to the PTFA, and for the many ways she supports the Carmel community behind the scenes.

• Mandy Verdonk – Staff Recipient For her committed service to music, rowing, and the Years 7 & 8 department, and for her inspiring contribution to student learning and school life.

• Karen Dorrington – Community Recipient For her dedicated service to Carmel sport through 24 years of coaching and developing generations of Carmel netball players, leaving a lasting impact on countless young women.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations and thanks to each of our recipients for the generosity, service, and care they bring to our community. Your commitment to others reflects the spirit of Mercy and serves as an inspiration to us all.

Carmel Day Concert The celebrations continued with the much-anticipated Carmel Day Concert, an event that never fails to showcase the creativity, confidence, and talent of our students. This year's concert theme celebrated strong female music icons with performances inspired

by Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Pink, and Ariana Grande. The result was an energetic and uplifting showcase that had the audience singing, dancing, and cheering throughout the afternoon. The concert was a true celebration of girl power, with confidence, friendship, and talent taking centre stage. From impressive choreography and creative costumes to outstanding performances, students embraced the opportunity to entertain and celebrate together.

A sincere thank you to our judges – Mrs Jenny Green (retired Carmel staff member), Aliya Rawle (past student and digital creator), and Lisa Perese Cullen (digital creator) – for generously giving their time and expertise to the event. Congratulations to Cecilia Maher, who was crowned the overall winner on the day.

Carmel Day remains one of the highlights of the school year, bringing our community together to celebrate faith, friendship, service, and the enduring Mercy values that continue to guide and inspire us. It is a day that honours our heritage while reminding us of the important role each of us plays in walking the path of Mercy.

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Education | Westlake Girls High School

Westlake Girls wins national Educational Leadership award Westlake Girls High School has won the Excellence in Educational Leadership Award for secondary schools at the 2026 New Zealand Education Excellence Awards – Ngā Tohu Kairangi Mātauranga o Aotearoa. The judges praised the school’s "deliberate and well-executed focus on developing the whole learner", recognising its strong academic results alongside initiatives that build student confidence, leadership and personal responsibility.

The award acknowledges a school-wide transformation developed in response to changing student engagement and wellbeing after the pandemic. Central to this has been the Student Growth Profile, followed by the Teacher Profile and 'How Girls Learn Best' pedagogical framework, creating a consistent approach to learning, teaching and leadership.

The impact is reflected in outstanding results, with 93.4% of students achieving NCEA Level 3, 87.2% gaining University Entrance and 119 New Zealand Scholarships in 2025. The award complements the school’s 2026 ERO report, which rated Westlake Girls as Excelling in eight key areas, confirming the strength and impact of its leadership.

Choralation

Nota Bella

Nota Bella receiving their awards

Cantare and Choralation with their awards

Cigno Voce

The Big Sing Regionals This year’s Auckland Regionals of the NZCF The Big Sing was a monumental choral showcase, bringing together a record 85 choirs from 54 high schools across the city and further afield. Over four days of competition, there were plenty of standout performances, but the most rewarding aspect of this event is seeing young people present their unique voices, build their confidence, and express themselves within such an encouraging choral community.

We are incredibly proud of all our Westlake choirs and our outstanding music team, and we appreciate the ongoing support of the Board and our school community. These achievements belong to our entire choral whānau:

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Cantare: (Music Director Fiona Wilson) • Excellent Recital Programme by an Upper Voice Choir • Adjudicator’s Award for Excellent Performance of a Single Piece: 'Suscepit Israel' by J S Bach, featuring Alison Dunlop on oboe.

Choralation (Music Director Fiona Wilson) • Excellent Recital Programme by a Mixed Choir Nota Bella (Music Director Elise Bradley) • Excellent Recital Programme by a Junior Choir.

• Excellent Performance of a New Zealand or Pasifika Work (choir not selected for National Finale for the past two years): Tūi Canon by Takerei Komene.

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Congrats to our brother school, Westlake Boys, for Voicemale’s award, Excellent Recital Programme by a Lower Voice Choir.

We are incredibly proud of all our Westlake choirs and our outstanding music team…

We are excited to announce that Cantare and Choralation have been selected for the next round of competition in August for the National Finale, held in Christchurch, and Nota Bella have been selected for the Cadenza Festival, held in Rotorua.

Congratulations to all our Westlake Choristers!

Y12 student selected for Cook Islands U18 Basketball Team Congratulations to Year 12 student Mia John-Tapaatoutai, who was selected to represent the Cook Islands in the Cook Islands U18 Women’s basketball team at the 2026 FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup in Bangkok, Thailand. The tournament was held on 13–18 July, with the team travelling from 10–28 July. Mia’s selection follows a successful trial process and reflects her talent, dedication and commitment to the sport. Representing your country on the international stage is a significant achievement, and we are incredibly proud of Mia for earning this opportunity. We wish her and the Cook Islands team all the very best for the tournament.

“I’m extremely proud to be representing my family by playing for the Cook Islands; not a lot of people get this opportunity, so I’m super thankful to be a part of this team.” – Mia John-Tapaatoutai.

Mia John-Tapaatoutai

Showquest 2026: a spectacular success What a fun, excitement-filled day our students had at Showquest 2026! After weeks of incredibly hard work bringing their creative vision to life, our talented students took to the stage with their original performance,' Symphony of Everyday Sounds'. Inspired by the idea of unplugging from our headphones

and truly appreciating the vibrant world of sound around us, the performance was both thought-provoking and highenergy.

Our school walked away with two awards: • Award for Recognition in Music • Award for Recognition in Culture

A massive thank you to all the students, staff, and families who poured their time, energy, and passion into this year’s performance. You represented our school beautifully. We are so incredibly proud of what this group achieved, and we already can’t wait to be a part of Showquest again next year. Bring on 2027.

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Education | Rangitoto College

Dancers sweep national competition and secure scholarships Our dance company delivered a dominant performance at the National Dance Challenge, standing out in a massive field of 133 school teams and more than 2,000 performers. Every Rangitoto group entry achieved a platinum gold score of over 90 points, anchored by the Senior Open Troupe. The troupe swept the top honours, winning first place in the Variety section, overall winner of the School Section, and overall secondary school winner, earning a nomination for the NYPA Nationals and taking fifth overall in the Finals Gala against New Zealand’s top elite dance studios. Student choreographers Eric Taylor, Hayley Stirling, Lining (Clair) Sun, and Isabelle

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(Izzy) Katipa were recognised with the Student Choreographer Award for the Hip Hop Mega Crew, while Rangitoto’s lyrical, theatre, and hip hop crews secured second-place finishes, complemented by third-place results for jazz and contemporary, and a fifth-place finish for the Junior Troupe.

The school’s talent extended to individual honours, with Rangitoto dancers claiming half of the competition’s ten standout awards. Among the recipients, Duong Ngoc Han (Vanessa) Le and Ya Wen (Tiffany) Zheng earned 100% summer school scholarships to Australia’s prestigious Village Nation and Patrick School of Arts, Melody Weng received the ADP

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scholarship, Audrey Ji Yan (Audrey) Ng took home an Individual Standout award, and Mia Rajaratnam was named the standout individual performer of the entire event, winning the Village Full-Time Week Experience.

Cael Sia

Lucy Singleton

International Baccalaureate spotlight

Rangitoto College continues to celebrate exceptional student achievement within the International Baccalaureate programme. Alumnus Cael Sia recently achieved a perfect IB score in the 2026 examinations, a rare honor attained by fewer than one percent of students worldwide, making him only the third student in Rangitoto’s history to accomplish the feat. Joining him in the spotlight is Year 12 IB student Lucy Singleton, who was named a Youth Ambassador for New Zealand Chinese Language Week following an impressive second-place finish in the national Chinese Bridge speech competition. Lucy’s remarkable linguistic journey was officially celebrated at Parliament and featured by the Ministry of Education, highlighting the extraordinary global-minded talent emerging from the school.

Tianyi Lu

Young neuroscientists excel at university competition Our budding neuroscientists demonstrated academic calibre at the prestigious Brain Bee competition, hosted by the Centre for Brain Research at the University of Auckland. Competing against 266 top Year 11 students from across the North Island, 12 Rangitoto students earned top-tier scores, securing an invitation to the university for an

immersive day of academic lectures, laboratory tours, and competitive quizzes.

The school’s representation culminated in exceptional final results, led by Tianyi Lu, who placed first overall to be crowned the North Island Brain Bee Champion.

Fellow student Nathaniel Qiu delivered a standout performance to finish in the top ten, while the Rangitoto team secured a

strong fourth place in the regional teams quiz. In recognition of their mastery of the subject, Tianyi Lu, Nathaniel Qiu, and Kevin Jin were awarded Neurological Foundation Brain Bee Internships. This prestigious opportunity will see them working alongside New Zealand’s leading brain researchers during the September holidays.

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Education | Rosmini College

Rosmini College leads New Zealand with cancer fundraiser

Rosmini College students put their hair on the line on Friday 26 June, raising more than $40,000 for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand. More than 70 boys and staff shaved their heads in front of a packed school auditorium. Their collective effort made Rosmini the top fundraising school and organisation in the country by a significant margin – living up to the school motto, Charity fulfils the law.

Alongside the energetic shave-off, the event offered a moment of reflection. Year 13 student Patrick Lemeki presented a painting of a daffodil field under a dawn sky, inviting staff and students to write the names of loved ones lost to cancer on the canvas.

Drama students bring Shakespearean comedy to The PumpHouse Theatre Rosmini College’s Year 13 drama students completed a successful three-night run of William Shakespeare’s 'Long Lost First Play (Abridged)' at The PumpHouse Theatre in June, following 12 weeks of intense rehearsal. Written by playwrights Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor, the comedy wove together iconic lines and classic storylines from Shakespeare’s famous catalogue into a single, joke-filled production.

Drama teacher Hannah Williams said the script was selected in part because it gave a tight-knit cast of five actors the chance to tackle several roles each. Junior students also contributed to the show's success, running the technical sound desk and working as ushers.

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Students tackle real-world problems at AI Hackathon Rosmini College recently hosted its first-ever AI Hackathon, which saw students team up to tackle real-world challenges using modern technology. The boys spent two fast-paced days brainstorming, testing ideas, and building prototype digital solutions – working much like a real-world tech startup.

Supported by industry mentors from major tech firms like Google and Genesis, teams focused on ethical business, sustainability, community service, and strengthening school spirit. Students had to prove their ideas held value, refine their tech designs, and pitch their finished projects to a panel of expert judges in just four minutes.

Alongside technical skills, the event challenged students to master critical workplace essentials: teamwork, problemsolving, and resilience under tight deadlines. The school's top three teams will now move on to represent Rosmini at the national AI Forum Hackathon in August.

Education | Takapuna Grammar

International students welcomed into TGS whānau Takapuna Grammar School recently welcomed 62 new international students from 15 countries across Southeast Asia, South America and Europe. They were officially welcomed into the TGS whānau with a special pōwhiri, where they experienced the school haka and shared kai with staff and students.

Some are studying towards qualifications, while others are spending six months here to experience Kiwi life. Pauline Trage, from northern Germany, chose New Zealand because it was the furthest destination from home and because of her love of nature. "The welcome was amazing and meeting all the people after. Everyone has been so nice. I'm looking forward to sport and getting out and experiencing everything," she said.

During orientation week, students were fitted with uniforms and attended sessions on sports, wellbeing, water safety and life here. They will be guided by the school values of manaakitanga (hospitality and kindness) and whanaungatanga

Nil Blanch (Spain), Nina Mammarella (Italy), Pauline Trage (Germany), Alessandro Canino (Italy) and Alessia Achilli (Italy).

(relationships). Takapuna Grammar School's international programme continues to thrive under the leadership of International Director Grant Simpkins and his team, who work to ensure every student feels connected to both our school

and Aotearoa. Grant recently received a prestigious SIEBA Impact Award. Associate Principal Will Scovell praised his mahi in restoring the programme to pre-pandemic strength and creating meaningful ways for students to engage with te ao Māori.

Stunning Tower Room a centenary exhibition space Centenary staff are transforming our historic Tower Room into an exhibition space celebrating Takapuna Grammar School's 100-year history. With celebrations set for Easter next year, the team is exploring the archives, uncovering photographs, badges, uniforms, trophies and other memorabilia that help tell the school's story. The Tower Room, with its stained-glass centrepiece and vaulted ceilings, carries its own history. It is being filled with treasures from our alumni.

Among the discoveries are badges and photographs of Meg Everton, an exceptional 1930s student, gifted sportswoman and later a Fulbright Scholar. Meg went on to a distinguished teaching career and, on her passing in 2010, left generous bequests, including $600,000 to fund a decile-one school library and the establishment of a Fulbright award supporting New Zealand educators. The centenary team is still looking for special pieces of school history. If you have memorabilia to share, please contact alumni@tgs.school.nz

Making their own:

talented musicians release and record music TGS has long been home to talented young musicians, with alumni including Lorde, Gin Wigmore and The Checks. This month, current students continued that tradition with recording, performing and songwriting achievements. Year 10 student Saskia Hill recorded her Play It Strange finalist track 'Poppy on the Hill' at Roundhead Studios in Parnell, a studio used by artists including Lorde and Crowded House.

Saskia said she was "absolutely buzzing". The song will be released later this year.

Year 13 student Charlotte Crotty won the APRA Award for Best Lyrics at Smokefree Rockquest for 'Static Electricity' her second consecutive win. She is also a finalist in the Play It Strange Peace Project for 'Ultraviolet', marking her third Play It Strange award. Head boy Nathan Fry opened for Kiwi band Borderline on their album tour in Tauranga and Rotorua, and recently released his second single, 'Damage', recorded with producer Nic Manders at Parachute Studios.

Nathan will perform at the Takapuna Winter Lights Festival from 30 July to 2 August.

Saskia Hill at Roundhead Studio Eden Terrace

Nathan Fry on tour with Borderline

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Education | Kristin School

Alice Xin

Alice and Victoria Xin

Victoria Xin

Xin sisters:

Kristin's talented golfing masters The Xin sisters, Victoria (Year 10) and Alice (Year 8), are beginning to take the golfing world by storm, showcasing their spectacular talents at national and international tournaments. Victoria’s appetite for golf began right here at Kristin in Year 4, trying it for the first time after setting up a golfing club with a friend. She enjoyed it so much that she decided to take it up more seriously. For Alice, her interest in golf was sparked by her older sister. “I think I was around seven years old when I first started. During Covid, Victoria was always in the backyard practising her swing. I was quite bored, so I thought I would join her! I have been playing ever since,” says Alice.

The girls clearly enjoy the sport, practising five or six days a week at the North Shore Golf Club and playing on the weekend at Pupuke Golf Club. “If you practice a lot, you really get to see the results, which I enjoy. I also love how many people you get to meet, especially playing international tournaments; you get to meet people from all over the world,” says Victoria.

Living under the same roof, Victoria and Alice spend a lot of time playing and practising together, and as you can imagine, this brings with it some healthy sister-tosister competition. “We definitely have some good competition between us. I am not sure if it is a good thing or not, but Dad made up a game for us when we are playing 18 holes together. Basically, we bet money per hole on who will win. It creates a bit more tension and makes it even more exciting and fun!” laughs Victoria.

Both girls have recently been putting their practice into play, securing some fantastic results in New Zealand and across the ditch. Playing against some of the best young golfers from around the world at the

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Australian Amateur Championships hosted at the Ballarat Golf Club, Victoria finished fourth in the U16 Girls’ division and eighth overall, while Alice placed fourth in the U14 Girls’ division and twenty-third overall. They both then competed at the U16 South Island Championships, where Victoria finished second and Alice seventh, and again at a tournament in Thailand, where Alice was the youngest competitor in the field. In late May, Victoria travelled to New York to play in a qualifying tournament for the USGA Junior Girls’ Championship at Sunningdale Country Club, where she finished fifth overall, narrowly missing qualification by just one shot.

Victoria has already secured some amazing results in her young amateur golfing career. In 2025. When she was in Year 9, she remarkably won the individual title at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Golf Championships. She shot sensational back-to-back rounds of 66 (-4) to finish at the top of the individual leaderboard on -8, beating out the best young amateur male and female golfers in the country. “It was pretty exciting to beat all of them and win.

There were so many good players from all over New Zealand, many of them much older than me, so the competition was tough. I think because it was a team event, I was more focused on our Kristin team and trying to score as low as possible; I wasn't really thinking about the individual competition, which put the pressure elsewhere,” says Victoria.

Victoria was already familiar with big wins. You only have to rewind the clock a little further to 2024, when she won the IMG World U12 Championship in the United States of America, shooting impressive scores of 69, 69, and 72 to win the threeround tournament by two shots over 90

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golfers from all over the world. “I think that one is certainly my best achievement because of the calibre of international golfers and the competitiveness at that tournament,” says Victoria.

When it comes to their favourite golf courses they have played, Alice picked a beauty, none other than TPC Sawgrass in Florida, which hosts the unofficial fifth golfing major, The Players Championship.

The course features the famous island green on the seventeenth hole, whose surrounding water is estimated to claim over 120,000 golf balls per year, two of which Victoria claims are hers. Victoria and Alice look up to today's professionals, with both selecting three-time major winner Nelly Korda and our New Zealand superstar, three-time major and Olympic medal winner and LPGA Hall of Famer, Dame Lydia Ko, as their favourites, alongside men's players Ludwig Alberg and Colin Morikawa.

For any aspiring golfers or Sunday hackers out there fishing for a few tips, the girls are happy to chip in. “Target practice and distance control. Practice your shots at 20, 30, 40, 50 metres, and so on. It will help you become much more precise with your shot windows. Oh, and keep your head down!” says Victoria. “Work on your swing tempo. If your tempo is wrong, the ball can go anywhere, so it is a good thing to work on, and you can do it anywhere!” says Alice.

Looking ahead, both Victoria and Alice are taking it one tournament at a time, but their overall goal is to attend a college in the USA with a great golf programme, with Alice preferring UCLA and Victoria eyeing Stanford University. However, at the rate these two young golfing masters are progressing, you wouldn’t rule out seeing them competing against Korda or Ko on the world stage in the not-so-distant future.

Enviroschools Reflection:

continuing Kristin’s sustainability journey It’s been four years since Kristin School was awarded Green-Gold status as an Enviroschool, reflecting our strong commitment to sustainability. All Enviroschools are required to reflect on their progress every three years, so, in early Term 2, 50 students, staff, parents and board members gathered together for our Enviroschools Reflection, facilitated

by Auckland Council’s Chris de Heer and three other members of the Sustainable Schools team. We had important questions to ask: Has Kristin moved forward in its journey as a Green-Gold Enviroschool? Are we still putting sustainability at the heart of everything we do?

This event was organised by Year 13 student Jerry Chen and a team of 15 students from across our three schools. For months, they collected stories and ‘evidence’ to show the various new initiatives and developments under the five key pillars of the Enviroschools framework: Sustainable Communities, Empowered Students, Learning for Sustainability, Te Ao Māori, and Respect for Diversity (and we’ve added Wellbeing).

The event had three key goals: highlight our progress, identify our challenges, and generate goals for the next three years.

Matua Henare and our kapa haka group began the event with a waiata and karakia, and we then shared some sustainability highlights. Ms Hickman from Little Doves shared stories about how te ao Māori concepts are enhancing their students' learning and discussed the growth of

Matariki celebrations at the centre. The Junior School has a new butterfly house to celebrate, and they shared their connections with Te Hononga a Iwi – growing harakeke seedlings for the Rosedale restoration project. We now have more student groups, such as the Marine Society and Garden to Table, and our prefects are working with Te Herenga Waka o Orewa marae and volunteering their time for local conservation projects. We continue to grow our use of te reo Māori, whakataukī, pōwhiri, and our own kōwhaiwhai is now represented on campus signage, honouring our bicultural heritage.

During the event, we highlighted that being a Green-Gold Enviroschool means our whole Kristin community is involved.

Kristin Family and Friends (KFF) has been a significant supporter via its Dove Seed Fund, and the recycling of unwanted secondhand uniforms with ImpacTex has shown

how a circular economy can work. More solar panels have been installed thanks to generous parent support, and our catering team now composts all food waste through the City to Farm programme.

A range of exciting new goals and ‘blue sky thinking’ were generated and will be used by the Council of Sustainability and our sustainability activator in future planning.

Ideas include: our very own Kristin farm to produce carbon-zero food for our café and school lunches; being 100% solar-powered; students generating power while active on the playground; and adopting our local catchment and working collaboratively with other schools to be pest-free and support more biodiversity. We are excited about what the next three years will bring. Watch this space, as we continue our journey towards being one of the most sustainable schools in New Zealand!

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Education | Westlake Boys

Westlake Boys and Mytona expand game development programme into the curriculum New Zealand's game development industry is experiencing rapid growth, recently surpassing NZD 1 billion in annual revenue and becoming one of the country's fastest-growing creative technology sectors. As demand for skilled talent continues to rise, innovative partnerships between education and industry are helping prepare the next generation for careers in game development. Westlake Boys High School is leading the way in digital education with its new Game Development Academy, one of the first programmes of its kind in a New Zealand secondary school.

Originally launched in 2025 as an after-school pilot programme, the academy attracted strong interest from students, with more than 130 registrations and 27 students selected for the inaugural cohort. Following the success of the pilot, the programme has now been incorporated into the school's official curriculum as a Year 13 subject, marking a significant milestone for both the school and the wider game development sector. The move reflects both strong student demand and the growing importance of digital creative industries, while creating a direct pathway for students to develop industry-relevant skills within their secondary education.

The partnership grew from an ongoing relationship between Westlake Boys High School and Mytona, which has supported local students through industry engagement initiatives and opportunities to connect with professionals working in game development.

The Game Development Academy represents the next step in that collaboration, helping create a pathway from the classroom into one of New Zealand's most dynamic technology sectors. Developed in partnership with global game developer Mytona, the course gives students access to an industry leader based on Auckland’s North Shore. Through

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Students in the Game Development Academy with Mr Simon O'Brien.

guest lectures, mentorship, office visits, and direct interaction with Mytona professionals, students gain valuable industry exposure and a deeper understanding of the skills and career pathways available within game development. The course combines Level 3 digital technologies and business studies courses, giving students the opportunity to design, build and market their own games using industry tools such as Unity and Blender. From concept through to completion, students develop both technical and creative skills, producing interactive games for real audiences.

Sasha Baisheva, Director of Global Operations at Mytona, said the company sees supporting future talent as an important part of its role in New Zealand’s game development ecosystem. “Alongside creating games enjoyed by millions of players around the world, we believe it is important to share knowledge and support the next generation of developers.

What impressed us most about Westlake Boys High School was the enthusiasm and initiative shown by both students and teachers. We are proud to support a programme that gives young people practical experience, develops valuable skills, and helps them explore career opportunities in one of New Zealand’s fastestgrowing creative industries.”

Year 13 student Alex Liang is currently developing an arcade-style game, Overtake!, where players navigate traffic and aim to travel as far as possible without crashing.

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“The course gives us the time to experiment and develop ideas properly,” Alex says.

“Building game mechanics from scratch feels very similar to how developers work in the industry.” The programme also places a strong focus on project management and entrepreneurship, with students required to create marketing plans and consider how their games would be positioned in a competitive global market. “If you love building things, solving problems, and collaborating with like-minded people, this course is a must. For me, or anyone else who genuinely enjoys digital technology, it’s an incredibly rewarding and fun space to be in,” says Alex.

Headmaster Paul Fordham is excited about the evolution of the programme.

“Education has a responsibility to serve the needs of young people and prepare them for future industries, and with this, schools and other education providers need to evolve and adapt to meet these ever-changing needs. The game development industry is fast-growing, and to have a platform for students to develop the skills and attributes that will set them up for engagement with this feels like the right thing to be doing. We are thankful for Mytona’s partnership and are excited about the evolution of this programme.”

Rowing whānau gather to open new boathouse We welcomed our Westlake rowing whānau to their new home at the Upper Waitematā Marine Centre in Hobsonville on Saturday 20 June. The open afternoon gave friends and families, who have been part of Westlake rowing over the years, the opportunity to view the new Andrew Whānau Boathouse and reconnect with the programme. Our Te Puna students led the mihi and karakia, before guests were invited through the rowing shed and upstairs to the function space.

Headmaster Paul Fordham and director of rowing Jo Shotter acknowledged the work of Mike Stanley, Aaron Andrew and Terry Zouch in bringing the project to life, presenting them with an oar and pounamu in recognition of their contribution. It was a fantastic event, and it was great to see so many Westlakers past and present come together to celebrate this significant milestone for rowing at Westlake Boys.

Choirs win awards at Big Sing Festival Our three choirs, Momentum, Voicemale and Choralation (combined with Westlake Girls High School) performed at the annual Big Sing festival in the Auckland Town Hall.

Choralation was awarded Best Mixed Voice Choir, while Voicemale took out Best Lower Voice Choir.

Adding to the celebration, senior prefect Hugh Reid was the only student in New Zealand to receive a Highly Commended award in the 2026 NZCF–SOUNZ Choral Composition. Voicemale and Choralation have been invited to the national finale of the Big Sing festival in Christchurch.

Hockey prems retain Worner Shield Over the school holidays, the Westlake Boys High School Premier hockey team travelled to Timaru to defend the prestigious Worner Shield. The campaign began with a 4–0 win over Christ’s College before a 2–0 loss to Timaru Boys’ High School left the title race in the balance. Heading into the final match against St Bede’s, Westlake needed a big win to retain the shield. The boys responded in style, racing to a 6–0 halftime lead before completing a dominant 9–0 victory. The result was enough to secure the Worner Shield for another year, with the team showing great resilience and composure when it mattered most.

Hugh Reid (centre) with Voicemale's Ishaan Chandra.

Cyclists hit top gear Westlake cyclists enjoyed an outstanding term break, claiming the Top Boys’ School title at the North Island Road Cycling Championships. The team produced strong results across several age groups, with Ethan Rawson winning the U16 road race and Ashton Sinclair taking out both the U17 road race and criterium. Marcus Hilder also impressed, finishing second in the U19 road race.

In the team events, Westlake won the Junior Team Time Trial and placed third in the Senior Team Time Trial, while also picking up several podium finishes in the B Grade criterium races. After a review of the points standings, Westlake was confirmed as Top Boys’ School, finishing just one point ahead of Auckland Grammar School.

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ANCAD: AUCKLAND NORTH COMMUNITY AND DEVELOPMENT INC

By Simon Ritchie, Marketing & Communications Lead

Why great organisations need more than passion Passion starts organisations. Strong leadership helps them thrive.

Most community organisations begin with a desire to make a difference. Yet passion alone doesn't guarantee success.

The organisations that thrive are often those that build strong relationships and make informed decisions. Healthy collaboration enables leaders, boards, staff and volunteers to work through differences, build trust and stay focused on a shared purpose. At the same time, understanding your marketing and social media numbers helps you see what's connecting with your community, where to invest your effort, and how to continually improve your impact.

From feedback to learning workshop – helping community groups to thrive

Passion starts organisations.

Strong leadership helps them thrive.

These are the focus of two practical LiiFT workshops this August: 'The leader's role in healthy collaboration' and 'Know your numbers: understanding social media and marketing analytics'. If you're looking to strengthen your organisation for the future, these are capabilities worth investing in. For programme details and upcoming dates, visit LiiFT.nz. Or email simon@ancad.org.nz For more about what ANCAD is doing and how we can help, visit ancad.org.nz Facebook @ancad.org.nz Instagram ancadinc LiiFT Aotearoa, LiiFT.nz 0800 426 223 or info@ancad.org.nz

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

YES DISABILITY SUPPORT CENTRE NEWS

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Yes Disability

It’s official!

We’re hosting our I.Lead conference in September The I.Lead conference is a platform for disabled youth (18 – 30 years old) from across New Zealand. The aim is to come together to find solutions to prevalent issues and barriers they face as disabled youth living in New Zealand. It is also a space of collaboration and innovation, being a platform from which we can identify solutions to these issues, as well as giving the opportunity to have them presented to high-level policy and decision-makers.

To maintain the momentum following our 2025 conference and our I.Lead Showcase days, our I.Lead members from across the motu will gather in Wellington in September for our 2026 I.Lead conference. This conference will be an opportunity for these rangatahi whaikaha to explore disability policy. The venues and dates have been confirmed and the conference will run over two days, Wednesday 2–Thursday 3 September.

We invite all disabled youth aged 18-30 to register! Limited sponsorships are available for flights and accommodation. Participants can register via yesdisability.org.nz/i-lead.../registration-form/ I.Lead's 2026 Showcase days are on a roll! So far we have hosted showcases in Auckland, Christchurch, Blenheim, Whangārei, Dunedin, and Tauranga. Ngā mihi to everyone who came along to learn more about our mahi and how to get involved. We have further upcoming Showcase days in Invercargill, Waikato, Manawatū, and Wellington.

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.

Want to know more about our Showcase days? You can learn more on the I.Lead website.

A few weeks ago, Yes Disability Centre took part in the Ice Bucket Challenge to help raise funds and awareness to support the vital work of Motor Neurone Disease NZ. Thank you so much to everyone who has supported our efforts so far! We're aiming to raise over $1000 for MND NZ, and we're sooooo close! Want to donate to support the cause? You can do so here: mndactionmonth.org.nz/yes-disabilityresource-centre-team.

I.Lead will host a table at Power in the Park 2026. Come and meet the I.Lead team at Eden Park on Thursday 22 October for a day of connection, innovation, and inspiration. Attendees can engage with various aspects of mobility and disabilities to increase their knowledge and confidence in products and services that are available to users, families and community members. To find out more or register, visit hub.permobil.co.nz/power-in-the-park.

For more information about our programmes and upcoming events, check out our websites and social media. ilead.org.nz • Facebook: facebook.com/ileadconferencenz Instagram: instagram.com/i.leadnz/ • Tiktok: tiktok.com/@i.lead LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/i-lead-org

DEVONPORT BUSINESS ASSOCIATION NEWS

Tabitha Coleman, General Manager Devonport Business Association

Fresh blooms meet the weekly shop Something lovely has just landed in Devonport. Devonport Flowers and New World Devonport have come together in a new partnership, bringing fresh, locally sourced blooms right into the supermarket. It's two locally owned and operated businesses backing each other, and it's great to see.

James and Claire at New World Devonport have always been keen to work with local suppliers, and when it came to flowers, partnering with someone right here in the village was a natural fit. Devonport Flowers is about as local as you can get. Both businesses are rooted in the community, both are owner-operated, and both genuinely care about what they're offering. That shared approach is what makes a partnership like this work.

Gretchen and her team at Devonport Flowers buy direct from flower growers and three times a week from the Flower Auction, with 4am starts to make sure everything is as fresh as possible. All seasonal, all put together by a team of local florists who genuinely love what they do and know that flowers should be more than an afterthought. There's real care and knowledge behind every bunch.

The new flower display units inside New World are worth a look on their own, designed as miniature villas in heritage colours, unique to Devonport. They bring a sense of character to the offering that you won't find in any other supermarket.

As Gretchen puts it, there are people who may never set foot inside a florist, but they're at the supermarket all the time. This is a chance to put beautiful, fresh seasonal blooms in front of people as part of their weekly shop, put together by people who really know their flowers. And for those last-minute moments, it's pretty handy to be able to grab something lovely early in the morning or late at night. For those of you reading from further around the Shore, this is one of those details that says a lot about Devonport as a village.

Local businesses here don't just operate alongside each other, they actively look for ways to work together and support each other.

It's part of what gives the village its character, and it's part of what makes it such a great place to visit.

New World Devonport is a short walk from the ferry terminal, so if you're coming over for the day, you can easily pop in and see the new stand for yourself. While you're here, wander up Victoria Road, grab a coffee, explore the shops and make a morning of it. Twelve minutes across the harbour and you're in a completely different world. This kind of collaboration between local businesses is exactly what we love to see at the Devonport Business Association, and we're proud to have both Devonport Flowers and New World Devonport as part of our village. Next time you're doing the weekly shop or planning a visit to Devonport, stop by and check out the new stand. It's a lovely addition to the village.

Devonport is YOUR seaside escape devonport.co.nz

SHORE JUNCTION: NEWS UPDATE

By Sonia Thursby, CEO, Shore Junction

Reuben's transformative journey At Shore Junction, every young person’s path looks a little different. For Reuben, a 20-year-old with autism and ADHD, the journey over the past 18 months has been nothing short of transformative, turning a place to connect into a place to lead.

When Reuben first came through our doors, he was looking for a space where he could just be himself. What he found was a community that embraced his strengths. Today, if you drop by Shore Junction on a Tuesday afternoon, you’ll find Reuben right in his element, running our bike maintenance workshops and sharing his expertise by training other young people to tune up and repair their rides.

His growth hasn’t just been noticed by our staff; it’s resonated deeply at home. Reuben’s mum recently reached out to share what Shore Junction has meant to their family.

“Reuben is an autistic young adult with ADHD. By sharing his journey, I hope it will promote greater understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of autistic people in our community. Reuben enjoys biking, fishing, 3D design, and 3D printing. These interests reflect his creativity, practical skills, and willingness to learn. I hope people will see him as a young man with strengths, interests, and potential, rather than being defined by his diagnosis.

"I would also like to acknowledge everyone at Shore Junction who has been part of Reuben's journey over the years. Your patience, encouragement, and belief in him have helped him grow in confidence, develop new skills, and become more independent. Your support has made a real difference to both Reuben and our family.

"As Reuben continues to grow, I hope this story can also highlight the importance of creating pathways into the wider community.

My hope is that, with the right support and opportunities, he will continue building his independence and one day gain meaningful employment that matches his interests and abilities. Thank you for everything you and the Shore Junction team have done for Reuben.

We are truly grateful for the positive impact you have had on his life.”

Reuben’s story highlights what happens when young adults are given a safe, supportive environment to discover their potential and build confidence. But to keep incredible initiatives like our bike maintenance program rolling, we need your help!

How you can help support Reuben To keep our Tuesday afternoon workshop equipped and accessible, Shore Junction is currently seeking community donations: • Bikes: old, unused, or surplus bikes (in working condition or needing repairs), • Bike tools and supplies: hex keys, tyre levers, pumps, puncture repair kits, and general workshop tools.

If you have spare gear sitting in your garage, or a bike that needs a new life, your donation will go directly into the hands of young people learning valuable practical skills. Reuben will be working alongside young people to do up bikes as gifts to youth in need, and also teaching others how to fix them.

Want to drop off a donation? Visit us at Shore Junction or get in touch with our team today to help power the next generation of builders and fixers!

To learn more about Shore Junction please email info@shorejunction.nz

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NORTH SHORE HISTORY WITH DAVID VERRAN

4-03161, the PS Osprey in the 1890s, courtesy of Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections.

Devonport and Helensville in the 1880s and 1890s By David Verran

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I have been researching the Helensville Town Board, formed in 1883, and note both parallels and points of difference between Helensville and Devonport at that time.

The name Helensville comes from Helen, the wife of John McLeod. McLeod began logging in the area surrounding the meeting place of the Awaroa and Kaipara Rivers, just to the south of Kaipara Harbour, in 1862. The Riverhead-Helensville rail link opened on 29 October 1875, and on 18 July 1881 the North Auckland railway line was extended to Helensville. By 1883, the population had grown sufficiently to allow locals to form a separate Helensville Town Board, within Waitemata County Council’s administrative area. That board took responsibility for local rates, such things as dog and slaughter house registration, attending to ‘public nuisances’ and local roading and culverts.

From 2 October 1881, the newly formed Devonport Steam Ferry Company finally provided Devonport with a regular and reliable ferry service to and from Auckland. By 1886, the Devonport population had grown sufficiently to enable the Devonport Road Board to become a borough, administratively separate from Waitemata County Council.

Issues such as roading were common to both, with the Helensville Board doing a lot of work levelling out roads, laying fascines (locally available small trees and branches), and topping some of them with scoria. In Helensville’s case that scoria came from the Railways Department’s own quarry at Mount Albert, which was then railed up on railway wagons to Helensville.

A water supply was also vital for both, with Devonport relying on local wells until the 1890s. Initially, Helensville wanted to have its own water supply, but ultimately that was postponed. Helensville’s resident population was much smaller than Devonport.

However, there were also distinct differences between Helensville

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and Devonport. Helensville was much more industrial than Devonport, with a soap factory (dating from 1881), a large fish cannery (dating from 1882), a flour mill (dating from 1883) and stockyards (dating from 1885).

Helensville also had numerous sawmills, a brick works, an ironworks, and the regional Court House. Nevertheless, there were at least two strong Devonport links in the 1890s.

The Kaipara Steamship Shipping Co. had been formed in 1878, and was replaced by the Northern River Steam Navigation Co. in 1883. In 1892, that company was wound up in favour of the Northern Union Steamboat Co., with the chairman of the Devonport Steam Ferry Co., Ewen Alison, extending his shipping roles to also becoming the Northern Union Steamboat Co.’s new managing director. That new company commenced operations on 1 August 1892 in the Dargaville, Northern Wairoa, Otamatea and Port Albert areas and used the Mount Rix wharf, which was eight kilometres north of Helensville, on the rail line and accessible on all tides. The company also ran the 'SS Ethel J.' on the Kaipara Harbour and tendered for a slipway and a coal wharf at Helensville. Alison remained as managing director until early 1897, when that company was sold.

The second link was the paddle steamer 'Osprey', which had been owned by the Devonport Steam Ferry Co. from 1888 to 1889. In late 1889 that steamer carried excursions on Dunedin Harbour during the South Seas Exhibition, and then from 1890 to 1892 ran in opposition to the Northern River Steam Navigation Co. as a passenger and cargo steamer on the Kaipara Harbour. In 1892 it became part of the Northern Union Steamboat Co. fleet, but was grounded in December 1895. The 'Osprey' returned to the Devonport Steam Ferry Co. in September 1896, and was broken up in December 1927. david.verran@xtra.co.nz

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Protect Your Biggest Investment Whether its your home, a rental property or commercial premises without regular maintenance, small issues can quickly become expensive repairs.

New Zealand’s climate is tough on properties, with harsh UV, heavy rain, moisture, and salt air all contributing to the deterioration of paintwork, timber, roofing, gutters, and exterior surfaces.

A well-maintained property not only looks great but also protects its value, extends the life of building materials, and helps prevent costly damage caused by leaks, mould, rot, and blocked gutters. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale, protecting an investment property, or simply taking pride in your home, preventative maintenance is always more affordable than major repairs.

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NORTH HARBOUR CLUB: NEWS

The Social Circle: Pool Night, Thursday 13 August Rack ’em up for a night of networking and fun!

Looking for a networking event with a twist? The North Harbour Club’s Pool Night is set to bring together business professionals, friends and community members for an entertaining evening of friendly competition on Thursday 13 August at Pool & Blues, 171 Target Road, Wairau Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned pool shark or simply enjoy meeting new people, this social event is all about having fun, making connections and sharing plenty of laughs along the way. Gather a partner, line up your best shot and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where networking comes naturally.

Doors open at 5.30pm, with formalities beginning at 6pm. Guests can enjoy complimentary nibbles and a cash bar. Hosted by The Social Circle, this event is open to everyone and offers a refreshing alternative to traditional networking occasions.

BEN Breakfast: Jason Paris, Tuesday 8 September Jason Paris is one of New Zealand’s most respected business leaders, known for his bold thinking, customer-first mindset, and ability to lead through change.

As soon-to-be departing CEO of One New Zealand, he has overseen the company’s transformation from Vodafone New Zealand, guiding major investments in digital innovation, connectivity, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. With an impressive career spanning TVNZ, MediaWorks, Spark, and One New Zealand, Jason has navigated some of the most significant shifts in media and telecommunications while building high-performing, purpose-driven cultures. A proud Southlander, community advocate, and passionate supporter of the One New Zealand Warriors, he brings a refreshingly practical perspective on leadership, resilience, and growth. In this inspiring presentation, Jason will share why confidence is a strategy, why culture drives performance, and why continuous reinvention is essential for success in today’s fast-moving world.

Expect an engaging and thought-provoking session packed with real-world insights for business leaders, professionals, and anyone looking to back themselves more boldly.

Lexus Charity Lunch, Wednesday 16 September Join us for a special 'Battle of the Sports Codes' Lexus Charity Lunch on Wednesday 16 September, featuring an exceptional line-up of New Zealand sporting legends.

Hear from Tom Abercrombie, one of New Zealand basketball’s most decorated players and a four-time NBL champion; Martin Guptill, the explosive Black Caps opener and holder of New Zealand’s highest ODI score; Steve Williams, the world-renowned caddie whose remarkable career includes 150 professional wins and 14 major championships alongside golfing greats including Tiger Woods; and Shaun Johnson, one of rugby league’s most influential playmakers and leaders, whose insights on resilience and high performance extend far beyond the sporting arena. Guiding the conversation will be acclaimed broadcaster and sports journalist Laura McGoldrick, bringing her trademark energy and expertise to what promises to be an entertaining and insightful afternoon. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear candid stories, behind-the-scenes moments and lessons from some of New Zealand’s most successful sporting personalities, all while supporting a great cause.

Tickets are $169+gst per person or $1,690+gst for a table of 10. Book now at North Harbour Club.

Visit northharbourclub.co.nz for further information.

BEN Breakfast with Jason Paris Tuesday 8th September, Regatta Bar & Eatery, Takapuna

Upcoming North Harbour Club Events in 2026

Lexus of North Shore Charity Lunch Battle of the Sports Codes Wednesday 16th September, North Harbour Stadium AIMES Youth Excellence Awards Gala Dinner Saturday 21st November, Grand Millennium Hotel Visit www.northharbourclub.co.nz for further information.

Upcoming North Harbour Club Events in 2026

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TAMMY MCLEOD, DAVENPORTS LAW

Tammy is the Managing Director at Davenports Law and leads the Trust Law and Wealth Protection team. She is a trust and asset structuring specialist with nearly 30 years legal experience specialising in the areas of personal asset planning, trust law, and Property (Relationships) Act. She is only one of a handful of lawyers nationally who specialise solely in the area of trusts, asset planning, and relationship property, and is one of the leading lawyers in her field.

When life changes, so should your will Joy and her late husband, Eric, hadn’t been able to have children, much to their regret.

However, they were very close to their godchildren, acting as surrogate aunt and uncle to the four children. Sadly, ten years ago, Eric died suddenly after a massive heart attack. He and Joy had completed their wills a couple of years before he died, leaving everything to each other and then, if they both died, to a mixture of family members and charities.

After Eric’s death, Joy decided to update her will. Under her current will, the executor was Eric’s older brother. That was no longer appropriate, as he was in his late 70s and might die before Joy. She also wanted to revise the gifts in her will to reflect discussions she and Eric had before his death.

Joy’s main asset was the family home, which was now worth a substantial sum. She also had some cash in the bank which supplemented her pension. She decided that she would leave the house to her godchildren on the basis that that was the lion’s share of her estate, and the balance would be divided between the three charities she and Eric had agreed upon. This meant that even if she spent all her cash, the godchildren would receive the proceeds of the family home after it was sold. Joy also appointed her lawyer to act as the executor of her estate. She thought it was good to have someone neutral in the role, and as her lawyer would need to be involved if she died anyway, it just made sense.

After three years, Joy decided that she wanted to move to a retirement village. She was struggling to keep up with the grounds and the housework in her larger house. She had lots of friends who had moved into villages, and she was also feeling quite lonely without Eric and thought it would be great to have more company. One of her goddaughters took her to several retirement villages, and she settled on one that she really loved. It had great facilities, and the people were very warm and friendly.

When Joy went to the lawyer to sign the papers for the sale of her home and the purchase of the occupation right to the apartment in the village, the lawyer suggested she review her will. Joy remembered the rough proportions between her godchildren and the charities and said that she might look at it to make sure it was still ok. Now that the cost of buying in the village was less than her home, she would have more cash, but needed time to think it over.

Joy didn’t go back to the lawyer about updating her will as she was having too much fun with her new life in the village and her lawyer never followed up with her. Two years after moving into the village, Joy had a stroke and ended up passing away with pneumonia in hospital a few days later.

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Her godchildren were sad but pleased for Joy that she had been able to enjoy her last few years even though it was without Eric. They were surprised, however, when they read Joy’s will. The will specifically left them Joy and Eric’s family home. That had been sold when Joy had moved into the retirement village, but the wording remained the same – it didn’t relate to the sale proceeds of the home. The lawyer told them that as that asset no longer was in Joy’s estate, they would receive nothing under her will, and her entire estate would go to charity.

Joy’s godchildren were not the greedy type, but this did not seem fair, and they didn’t think it would have been what Joy wanted. They decided to take their own legal advice. The lawyer they saw said that the best thing to do would be to try and negotiate with the charities, but that there was no guaranteed chance of success.

This story illustrates the importance of reviewing your will as well as getting good advice around the way that it’s drafted. Wills may seem simple, and sometimes they are, but they often need to address complex circumstances. Careful thought and time should go into the drafting process. Ensure that your will is up to date and says what you want to happen so that you don’t leave an expensive headache for your family.

Tammy McLeod, Managing Director, Davenports Law

09 915 4380 DAVEN PORTSL AW.C O.N Z

C RAFTED L EGAL ADV ICE FOR PE ACE OF MIN D.

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It is recommended to review your will every five years, or whenever your circumstances change.

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Significant milestones such as marriage, separation, death, a change in your assets, or expanding your family can affect your assets being distributed in the way you want them to be.

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Ensure your final wishes are respected and get advice that reflects your personal situation. Contact our Trust and Wealth Protection team to review your will.

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LEWIS BEER, ANDERSEN NZ

With over 40 years’ experience in public practice, Lewis Beer is grounded in the values of exceptional client care. Known for his practical approach, commercial insight, he is committed to guiding clients to make sound strategic business decisions. This column shares perspectives for leaders navigating growth, risk and performance in New Zealand.

Succession planning:

The business conversation many leaders avoid Ask most business leaders what keeps them awake at night and you’ll hear familiar concerns: Revenue. Growth. Staff.

Cash flow. Competition.

Rarely does succession planning make the list. Yet for many organisations, the future success of the business depends on what happens when key people eventually step away. Whether through retirement, a sale, promotion, illness, or an unexpected life event, leadership transitions are inevitable. The question is not if they will happen, but whether the business is prepared when they do.

In our experience, succession is one of the most important strategic conversations a business can have, and one of the most commonly delayed.

Many people associate succession planning with family businesses and business owners. While ownership transition is certainly part of the discussion, the process extends much further than that. Every organisation has people who hold critical knowledge, key customer relationships, technical expertise, or leadership responsibilities. When those individuals leave without a plan, the impact can be significant.

For business owners, succession is about protecting the value they have worked hard to create. For boards and leadership teams, it is about reducing risk and ensuring continuity. For emerging leaders and senior employees, it provides clarity around future opportunities and career development. Succession planning is not just about who owns the business next; it is about who leads it.

The cost of leaving it too late One of the most common misconceptions is that succession planning begins a year or two before the event. The reality is that the most successful transitions often start much earlier. Why? Because succession is rarely a single event. It is a journey. Potential successors need time to develop leadership capability. Knowledge needs to be transferred. Customer and stakeholder relationships need to be transitioned. Systems and processes need to become less dependent on a single individual.

When businesses delay these conversations, they reduce their options. The result can be rushed decisions, increased risk, uncertainty for staff, and reduced business value. Like most strategic decisions, succession planning becomes easier when there is time to think clearly and act deliberately.

What a good succession plan includes While every organisation is different, effective succession plans generally address several key areas.

The first is defining the desired outcome. What does success look like? Is the goal a family transition, management buyout, external appointment, merger, or sale? What role, if any, will current leaders continue to play?

The second is identifying future leaders. Many businesses assume they know who will step up when the time comes.

However, leadership capability and readiness are not always

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the same thing. Succession planning provides an opportunity to assess strengths, identify development needs and create a pathway for future leaders. Business readiness is equally important.

If key relationships, decision-making, operational knowledge or customer trust sit with one person, the business may be more vulnerable than it appears.

The strongest businesses are those that can continue performing successfully when leadership changes, without disruption to customers, staff or performance.

The human side of succession Unlike many business decisions, succession planning is rarely just about numbers. It often involves emotion, expectations and relationships.

For family businesses, there can be difficult conversations around fairness, capability and ownership. For long-serving leaders, stepping back can raise questions about identity and purpose. For future leaders, succession discussions can create both opportunity and pressure.

The businesses that navigate succession well are typically those that communicate early, set clear expectations and involve the right people throughout the process.

Questions every business should be asking Whether succession feels imminent or decades away, there are several questions worth considering: • What would happen if a key leader left tomorrow?

• How dependent is the business on specific individuals?

• Have we identified and developed future leaders?

• Are key relationships and knowledge shared across the organisation?

• Do we have a documented succession plan?

If those questions create uncertainty, you are not alone. Many successful organisations have never formally addressed succession planning. However, avoiding the conversation does not remove the risk.

Strong businesses are built to last beyond any one individual.

They invest in leadership development, create systems that reduce reliance on key people and plan for continuity long before continuity becomes a concern. Whether you are a business owner considering what comes next, a senior leader thinking about progression, or part of a leadership team responsible for long-term strategy, succession planning deserves a place on the agenda.

Succession planning is not about preparing for the end. It is about preparing for the future.

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NEWS FROM YOUR MP

Want to meet people and be social?

Join in the fun at Takapuna Boating Club!

Regular social fixtures: Friday draw Club dinners Quiz nights Club Days New to the area?

Come down and meet new friends All ages welcome Social and active memberships Social committee Time on your hands? Lots of opportunities to get involved Plus – Members enjoy 20% off at our bar!

Join the TBC community today – fun, friendship & the ocean breeze await.

39 The Strand, Takapuna Beach, Auckland Phone: 09 489-6941 members@takapunaboating.org.nz takapunaboating.org.nz

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By Dan Bidois, MP for Northcote

Managing through uncertainty Since March, we have all witnessed the dramatic escalation and continuation of conflict in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. These events have had unprecedented impacts on global oil markets, energy security, and inflation pressures here and around the world, reminding us just how interconnected and uncertain the global environment has become.

In these uncertain times, governments must stay focused on what is within their control. That means maintaining discipline with public spending, so we do not add further pressure to inflation, and ensuring that any support provided is temporary, targeted, and directed to those most in need.

In line with this approach, we passed law changes to boost the in-work tax credit, delivering targeted relief of up to $50 per week to around 143,000 working Kiwi families.

Despite global instability, there are encouraging signs for New Zealand’s economic outlook. Treasury forecasts the economy will grow by an average annual rate of 2.7 per cent over the next four years, unemployment is expected to fall from 5.5 to 4.3 per cent, and wages are projected to continue rising faster than inflation.

Importantly, the Government’s books are now forecast to return to surplus in 2028/29 – one year earlier than previously expected – with debt also beginning to decline sooner as a share of the economy.

Treasury forecasts the economy will grow by an average annual rate of 2.7 per cent over the next four years, unemployment is expected to fall from 5.5 to 4.3 per cent, and wages are projected to continue rising faster than inflation.

This is important as we have over $200 billion of nominal debt that has to be serviced with interest every year. The interest this year alone exceeds $9 billion, which is more than we spend annually on police, justice and corrections combined!

These improvements reflect a disciplined approach to managing the Government’s finances: slowing spending growth, prioritising taxpayers’ money to support economic growth, and reducing wasteful expenditure where possible.

Part of building our economic future is making sure we save more so that we can invest more as Kiwis. That is why National has pledged to make KiwiSaver compulsory for all workers from 2028 and gradually lift minimum employee and employer contributions to 6% each by 2032, creating a 12% total retirement savings rate.

It's all part of our plan to fix the basics and build the future.

I look forward to seeing 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

BOWLS NORTH HARBOUR NEWS

Mairangi Bay Bowling Club crowned North Harbour 'Club of the Year' Mairangi Bay Bowling Club has celebrated an outstanding season, culminating in the highest honour at the recent Bowls North Harbour Awards and prizegiving, being named North Harbour Bowling Club of the Year for 2025/26. The prestigious award recognises far more than success on the greens. It acknowledges excellence in competition, club development, community engagement, facilities, coaching, and volunteer support. Mairangi Bay excelled in all areas.

The club's bowlers also enjoyed exceptional individual success.

Sheryl Wellington was named Supreme Bowler of the Year and Umpire of the Year, while Theresa Rogers took out the Women's Bowler of the Year award. Garth Partridge received the President's Cup, and Tony James was recognised for his selection in the New Zealand Blind Jacks team.

Perhaps the club's most remarkable on-green achievement was its dominance in the North Harbour Interclub 7s competition, winning all three divisions: Men's, Women's and Mixed – an unprecedented result. Mairangi Bay also secured several other Bowls North Harbour championship titles, particularly in women's events.

But sporting success is only part of the story.

A strong connection with the local community has long been a cornerstone of the club's philosophy. Mairangi Bay Bowling Club works closely with neighbouring organisations including the Mairangi Bay Fishing Club, Surf Club and Tennis Club, all of which regularly use the club's facilities. The club also keeps residents informed through regular contributions to the Mairangi Bay Village News and hosts a variety of Bowls New Zealand and Bowls North Harbour events throughout the year.

One of its most popular initiatives is the annual Business House Bowls competition, run over spring and summer. The programme regularly sells out and attracts a waiting list of teams eager to take part. Participants are also offered a special limited membership that allows them to compete in the club's half-day tournaments.

This winter, the club introduced a new Winter Tuesdays programme featuring four different half-day bowling formats. The initiative has proven extremely popular with both members and visiting bowlers, adding a fun and social dimension to the winter calendar.

Membership growth remains another focus. Following the success of last year's Have a Go Day, which attracted new players to the sport, the club will host another event on Sunday 27 September, welcoming anyone interested in giving bowls a try.

Community fundraising is also a key part of club life. Mairangi Bay Bowling Club proudly supports the Harcourts Pink Ribbon fundraiser and regularly hires out its clubrooms to a wide range of community groups, including the East Coast Bays National Party.

Behind the scenes, the club continues to invest heavily in its

Sheryl Wellington, Supreme Bowler of the Year and Umpire of the Year awards

Garth Partridge, President's Cup award

Theresa Rogers, Women's Bowler of the Year award

facilities. Members enjoy two high-quality grass greens and an artificial carpet green, allowing play throughout the winter months.

The grass greens are maintained by an experienced greenkeeper, while the carpet surface is cared for by Tiger Turf, ensuring excellent playing conditions year-round.

Player development is equally important, with regular coaching available to bowlers of all skill levels.

The club has also refreshed its look, unveiling a new club shirt this year that has received enthusiastic feedback from both members and visiting players. Work is already underway on a new club jacket to complement the updated uniform.

Like most successful community organisations, the club depends on the dedication of volunteers. From board members to those who help behind the scenes, countless people contribute their time and energy to keep the club thriving.

It is this combination of competitive success, community spirit, first-class facilities and volunteer commitment that has earned Mairangi Bay Bowling Club the title of North Harbour Club of the Year.

Among the other major award winners on the night were Neil Fisher (Browns Bay), winner of the Open Men's Award, and Lloyd Sinton (Browns Bay) and Deanne Bronlund (Hobsonville), who received the One-to-Five Year Awards. mairangibowls.org.nz

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EDUCATION: JAYNE DE LA HAYE, JUNIOR SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, KRISTIN SCHOOL

HARBOUR HOSPICE NEWS

Nurturing resilience In today’s fast-paced, increasingly unpredictable world, modern parenting presents a unique set of challenges. Anxiety and worry have become common visitors in our homes, leaving many of us looking for practical ways to help our children navigate life’s ups and downs. At Kristin School, we believe that an exceptional education must extend beyond academic success; it requires a deep, foundational commitment to student wellbeing and character development.

To bring this philosophy to life, we actively partner with external organisations that complement and enhance our school wellbeing framework. A recent highlight was hosting a parenting masterclass on campus, presented by Sheridan Eketone from Parenting Place. In particular, it was refreshing to hear advice on helping young people build genuine resilience by shifting our focus from trying to ‘fix’ a problem to helping them ‘face’ it.

When children are distressed, it is an entirely natural instinct to jump into ‘fix-it’ mode. We want to distract them, reason with them, or find an immediate solution to make the discomfort disappear.

However, true resilience is not developed when we eliminate discomfort, but when we support children through it. Sheridan challenged families to embrace the power of ‘being with’ children in their hard moments. When parents sit with them in their distress without rushing to a solution, it sends a powerful message: Your feelings are safe, they are manageable, and you are not alone.

…true resilience is not developed when we eliminate discomfort, but when we support children through it.

The masterclass provided families with excellent, actionable strategies to foster bravery at home: • Validate the worry, but include hope: Acknowledge a child's reality while offering a vote of confidence: "It looks like joining the swimming class is very tricky today, but I know that with a little bit of help, you can handle tricky things."

• Avoid the avoiding: Letting a child opt out of what they fear brings immediate relief, but it reinforces anxiety long-term.

Building genuine resilience means gently resisting the urge to let them retreat.

• Find small steps towards bravery: Nudge children with small, manageable steps. If a new activity feels too much, they might sit on the sidelines and watch first. For an older student, it might look like breaking a daunting assessment into smaller, achievable parts.

Weaving these steps into family life requires time, patience and self-compassion. At Kristin, we are incredibly proud to provide our community with the tools, experts and support networks needed to navigate these complexities. We view parenting and education as a vital partnership, working together to raise confident, resilient individuals who are equipped for the future.

Discover the Kristin difference To learn more about our holistic approach to wellbeing and education from Early Learning through to Year 13, visit kristin.school.nz.

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Hospice fundraiser promises unforgettable afternoon Harbour Hospice’s flagship fundraiser, Vintners' Brunch, is back for its 29th year in August, and this year it includes three Michelin-listed restaurants in its line-up. The event is known as one of Auckland's most exclusive food and wine matching events, bringing foodies and wine connoisseurs together each year to showcase some of the city's best restaurants and New Zealand's world-class wineries.

Working together, 10 restaurants and specialty food creators partner with 10 wineries to craft a food-and-wine match created specifically for the day, resulting in 10 unique pairings designed to bring out the best in both. Restaurants and wineries then compete for the coveted Vintners' Brunch Best Wine and Food Match Award, adding a layer of friendly rivalry to an already unforgettable afternoon. This year’s line-up includes two Michelin Bib Gourmand honourees and one newly Michelin-listed restaurant. Beyond the table, the day includes live and silent auctions, all in support of Harbour Hospice.

Vintners’ Brunch offers a truly memorable afternoon, providing the perfect setting for friends to gather and businesses to entertain clients. With exceptional food and wine at its heart, the event supports an essential local service that makes a meaningful difference in the North Shore community.

Event details: Sunday 30 August 2026, 11am – 4:30pm, Pullman Hotel, Corner Waterloo Quadrant &, Princes Street, Auckland.

Tickets are limited.

Did you know?

• Harbour Hospice supports one in three people in your community who are dying.

• Most hospice care is given in people’s homes.

• Less than 50% of Harbour Hospice's operational costs are funded

by Health New Zealand. The rest needs to be fundraised.

To secure your tickets and be part of one of Auckland's most anticipated events on the culinary calendar: harbourhospice.org.nz/event/vintners-brunch/

PUPUKE BIRDSONG PROJECT

By Natasha Geo, Pupuke Birdsong Project Manager

Protecting what we love From bird flu alerts to predator traps, August is a big month for local conservation – and we need you.

Bird flu (H5N1) – what you need to know MPI has confirmed H5N1 bird flu in New Zealand for the first time, with a second case now confirmed in a kāhu (harrier hawk) in the Wairarapa. It's expected to keep spreading via wild and migratory birds, and once established, it can't be eradicated from wild populations. Waterfowl, shorebirds, and seabirds – many of the species we see regularly around the North Shore – are among the most vulnerable. If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds together, please don't touch or move them. Call the exotic pest and disease hotline, 0800 80 99 66, with location, photos, species, and numbers if you can. Early reporting is one of the few tools we have to slow the spread. More info at mpi.govt.nz/hpai

SUNNYNOOK COMMUNITY CENTRE NEWS

By Bronwyn Bound, Sunnynook Community Centre Manager

New noticeboard shares upcoming events and milestones We are delighted with our new noticeboard! At the Sunnynook Community Centre, the Sunnynook Catchment PACT group (People, Action, Communication, Trust) works on community resilience and recovery. This group identified the need for a double-sided community noticeboard outside Sunnynook Community Centre for updates on resilience initiatives, events, and project milestones.

Matariki mauri whenua in Sunnynook What a celebration! Our Sunnynook community came together to honour Matariki by planting trees, sowing seeds, and sharing kai.

Over 200 plants in the ground in under an hour; a fantastic way to give back to te taiao.

August predator pulse August is Predator Pulse month. We carry out targeted predator control on carefully chosen dates throughout the month, timed around food scarcity, and rodent and native bird breeding cycles, to support the energy of our incredible volunteers. Want to join the effort? Get in touch with us.

Search "Pupuke Birdsong Project" on Humanitix to see all upcoming events and register. A big thank you to Auckland Council, Devonport- Takapuna Local Board, and to Healthy Waters for their ongoing support. For more information and to book, scan the code, go to our website, or give us a call. pupukebirdsong.org.nz Facebook/Instagram: @Pupuke_Birdsong_Project office@takapunatrust.org.nz, 09 486 2098 Supported by:

Massive thanks to Lloyd Olivecrona from Devonport Hire a Hubby for designing and constructing the noticeboard and to Neesha Bremner…

We are very fortunate to have received funding from Auckland Council for Impacted Communities Local Recovery Planning Implementation. Massive thanks to Lloyd Olivecrona from Devonport Hire a Hubby for designing and constructing the noticeboard and to Neesha Bremner, community recovery specialist, community and social recovery at Auckland Council's Tāmaki Makaurau recovery office, for all of her support.

We celebrated Matariki at the Sunnynook Community Centre with a hangi community dinner on Friday 17 July – this was a wonderful community event and we thank the Local Board for funding the dinner. Thanks also to Ruth Moloney, our community connector, for organising the event. sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz office@sunnynookcomcentre.co.nz.

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GUNDRY'S GRUMBLES

Simon Gundry is a Devonport and North Shore identity and character, 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!)

Dream roads and dodgy houses While I was in conversation with an engineer friend at New World near the fish department, he recalled a column I wrote many years ago about a by-road linking the Harbour Bridge and the central peninsular area at Belmont. My concept was to make a main route down Bayswater Avenue from Belmont virtually to Sir Peter Blake Parade, bypassing the marina on the northern side. From there, there would be an elevated two- or four-lane road built on concrete piles above Shoal Bay linking into the Harbour Bridge area near the Northcote motorway roundabout. This could either be constructed elevated or by building a causeway which would be slightly elevated in the middle to allow boats under. So basically, travelling north, you could sweep off near the old toll plaza, sweep across Seven Mile Bridge, Florida Keys the motorway onto the elevated road right down into Bayswater Avenue. The people my friend, including the discovery of a leaking tile roof which had of Bayswater probably wouldn’t like this concept, but if you do anything in this country, someone is going to complain. Coming been an ongoing problem for the previous tenant. On moving in, she received a huge water bill from Watercare. She disputed this from Belmont, you would drive down Bayswater Avenue onto bill, but as Watercare do in their own wonderful manner, they just the roadway, which would be just south of the hotel at the end kept sending her bills. After the first couple of weeks, she called a of Bayswater Avenue, onto the elevated roadway that would plumber in. The plumber discovered there was a constant leak in sweep, taking traffic south onto the Harbour Bridge or north the toilet, very hard to detect for an elderly person, but 24 hours a onto the Northcote roundabout area. This concept would sort day the water bill was racking up. When the plumber went under Lake Road out once and for all. Elevated roadways are seen the house, which was a very small crawl space of only two feet, right throughout the world, including the Florida Keys. I cannot he discovered that neither the bathroom nor the kitchen waste understand why it couldn’t work in this situation. water was connected to any of the cesspits on the outside; it was While we are talking about roadways, I’m led to believe that the all running straight under the house. So, the previous Kainga Ora Penlink construction is running well behind schedule. That is the piece of road linking the central Whangaparāoa area to the northern tenant had been living with their waste water (not the toilet water but kitchen and bathroom water) flowing straight out of the house and motorway. I also believe this is only a one-lane each way piece of into the ground below them. Also, once my friend moved into the infrastructure. It seems crazy to go to all this work without building house, she discovered that the heat pump was not connected – just for the future, that is, a two-way piece of infrastructure. I know this installed but never working. piece of roading had been in the works for many, many years, and So, the government tells us to get rental accommodation up to finally it is getting done, which is a good thing, but whether one-way healthy homes standards while all along, their houses are far, far each way is the way to go... I don’t think so. away from being healthy homes at all. This one particular property Here’s one for you: Kainga Ora (formerly Housing New Zealand) that the former tenant lived in had a leak from broken tiles on the in the last few months has been selling off a bunch of their houses roof, the heat pump not working and both the shower, hand basin throughout Auckland. A good friend of mine bought one as a and kitchen sink all flowing into the ground underneath the house. first home. Using her KiwiSaver, minimal savings that she had and So, make something out of that one if you like. after much deliberation with her bank, she managed to scrape I’ve really enjoyed the football World Cup over the last couple of enough money together to put a tender in for the purchase of months. An extraordinary level of top sports played in extraordinarily a small two-bedroom house on its own site (freehold, not cross wonderful stadiums, filled to the brim with spectators. Oh, so nice to lease). The effort and drama she went through to put the funds follow and get positive news of instead of the normal sadness that together was extraordinary, so good on her. These houses are goes on around the world, i.e. the Ukrainian war and the Middle East sold in the ‘as is where is’ form; therefore, there is no comeback to conflicts. I so love sports at the top level, and that certainly was it.

Kainga Ora if there are any problems. Due diligence was done by

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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

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– WHO'S WHO –

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The Channel Crossword "Tom's Hat?" by Māyā of Auckland (mayaofauckland.substack.com) No. 122

Solution to last month's crossword

Down 1

Flying mammal from Thomas Bishop's club (4,3)

2

Breathe new life into Descartes and Watt (5)

3

I'm told the King's first wife was a pharmacist (9)

4

Brood from Kansas returned around mid-July (4)

5

Put another way, club has a rapper (10)

6

Hands holding - yes - a bird? (5)

7/9 Drawing Marvin, Vi and Aunt Dotty (9,3) 8

Transport commuters lacking company, which is most peculiar (7)

13 Priest is active - church lines to pen (6,4)

Across 1

Mentioned secure sacks of roasts (7)

5

To do: get friend to assert (7)

9

See 7 Down

18 Driven to drop ex-student as temporary instructor (9)

15 A con game I played to get a vanity case (9) 16 Codes form rules breeding culture, custom and practice (9)

20 Outlining knock-about heap (8)

17 Cooked like Nero? (7)

10 A way to get sustainable power for our home (5,6)

22 Religious person getting a quarter for a metre of cloth (6)

19 Weapon drawn by Baron Munchausen? (7)

11 A cricketer's hat? (6)

25 Utilise bananas to cover certain casual wear (7,4)

23 One who runs (not man) left before drink (5)

12 Opening one arch by old city to the east (8) 14 An official who loves things? (9) 16 Poet Laureate finally backing hard work (5) 17 Occasionally follow up right to ground stuff (5)

21 Digital method of obtaining a ride (5) 24 Make better prompt about radius (4)

26 The gift received from a kiss? (3) 27 Decide libel doesn't involve deli, which is a sound unit (7) 28 Cockney intellectual, say, might raise this (7)

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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Issue 177 - August 2026 channelmag.co.nz

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