A vacant and fast-deteriorating council-owned waterfront home could be upgraded at no cost to ratepayers and rented to local clubs.
The North Shore Rugby Club and North Shore Cricket Club have put forward a formal proposal to Auckland Council to lease one — possibly two — of the multimil-
lion-dollar properties on King Edward Pde.
Of the three properties on Devonport Domain — the home of the cricket club — one is tenanted, one is available to lease and the other needs a major upgrade.
“The answer is obvious: lease at least one of the properties to the clubs at a nominal rental,” the proposal says.
“In return the clubs will engage their own community-based resources (builders, electricians, plumbers, labour) to bring the house[s] up to healthy homes standard so they can be put to use providing accommodation for young people that come from out of Auckland to play for our teams.
To page 2
Portugal beckons for Wakatere’s young guns
Wakatere Boating Club yachties excelled in the national youth champs, with four selected for the youth worlds in Portugal in December, including (from left) Will Mason, Tessa Clinton and Daniella Woolridge. Full story, page 3.
CLASSIC HOMES, MODERN APPROACH
Tailored strategies for timeless, premium homes
Bianca O’Dea 021 361 116
Devonport 09 445 2010
Waterfront villas ‘could house players from out of town’
From page 1
“Both clubs face enormous financial challenges finding accommodation for these young people that is affordable for them and the clubs,” the proposal says.
Using these properties for a purpose directly associated with the clubs also fits with the need for Domain assets to be used for recreational purposes, the sports clubs’ proposal says.
Having the properties occupied would provide “natural surveillance” and added security for the reserve, which would reduce the risk of damage from vandals or squatters.
The proposal hints at a degree of frustration the clubs have had in dealing with the council over the houses.
“For at least a year [the clubs] have attempted to engage with council officers and elected board members around the question of what to do with the houses that are located on the Devonport Domain,” the proposal said.
The issue will be dealt with by the incoming Devonport-Takapuna Local Board and Auckland Council.
Empty house… the untenanted villa on King
that
clubs want to fix up, at no cost to owner Auckland Council
Man charged after Belmont stabbing
A 47-year-old man has been arrested after a stabbing at the Kāinga Ora accommodation complex in Belmont last month.
He faced a charge of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm in the North Shore District Court last week, with police opposing bail.
“Police would like to reassure the wider community that we believe this was an isolated incident,” a spokesman said.
The stabbing occurred on 12 September, prompting a big police response to the state
housing block on the corner of Bardia St and Lake Rd, with apartments being cleared in the evening.
An arrest was made on 24 September by the Waitematā East CIB. A spokesman said detectives located a person of interest at a property in Stanmore Bay. He was arrested without incident.
Police said the victim was in a stable condition and recovering from his injuries.
Kāinga Ora did not respond to Flagstaff questions about security at the property.
Homeless woman dies at Hauraki
A woman was found dead in the public toilets at the Hauraki Corner shops on 24 September.
Her death comes as the wider Takapuna area grapples with increasingly visible homelessness.
Several Hauraki shop-owners said the dead woman was homeless and had sometimes slept at the Hauraki Corner public toilets.
Devonport Publishing Ltd First Floor, 9 Wynyard St
Best Community Involvement: 2021, 2016, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2008, 2005
Best Sports Reporter: 2024, 2016
Best Lifestyle/Feature Writer: 2024, 2023
VOYAGER/CANON MEDIA AWARDS
Community Reporter of the Year: Winner 2018
Community Newspaper of the Year: Finalist 2017
MANAGING EDITOR: Rob Drent
CHIEF REPORTER: Janetta Mackay
ADVERTISING: Candice Izzard
DESIGN: Brendon De Suza
HON SIMON WATTS
Authorised by Hon Simon Watts,
Wgtn.
Edward Pde
sports
Wakatere contingent prepare to take on the world’s best
Four Wakatere Boating Club sailors won titles at the New Zealand youth championships last month, then won selection last week for the world champs to be held in Vilamoura, Portugal in December. They spoke to the Flagstaff.
Daniella Woolridge (18) blitzed the field in the iQFOil 7.3m fleet at the nationals at Manly, going on to make the New Zealand world youth championships team for the second time. The first-year engineering student at Auckland University, won all but two races at the nationals.
Her pre-worlds training will centre on regattas off Melbourne. At Portugal she hopes for “windy conditions with flat water” and is aiming for a top-15 finish. She was delighted that so many Wakatere Boating Club sailors had made the New Zealand youth team. “It’s really cool – a great result.”
Cam Brown (18) hopes a top finish in the open World 420 champs in Urla, Turkey in July will flow on to the world youth champs. Brown and crew Oli Stone finished 8th against seasoned yachting crews.
If that sort of form continues in the youth worlds’ “we should be looking at a top three or top five finish”, Brown said.
Brown and Stone dominated the national youth champs, which acted as a trial for the worlds. They won seven races and finished second in the other two.
The pair will train together for seven weeks before heading to Portugal for a preworld champs regatta.
Brown is in his last year of junior international competition. At the junior worlds in Lake Garda, Italy in 2024 he finished 13th with crew Alex Norman.
Tessa Clinton (16) had an outstanding national youth champs regatta with partner Amelia Higson. They were the top girls’ crew in the 420 fleet – and twice beat the top boys ‘team of Cam Brown and Oli Stone.
“It was an awesome result in the conditions,” Tessa said. High winds and big swells off Manly during the racing favoured the boys who were a combined 15kg heavier than Tessa and Amelia. “In seven out of the 10 races we were neck and neck [with the boys] till the finish which was pretty cool.”
Tessa and Amelia will continue training in New Zealand before also heading to Portugal in late November for the pre-worlds regatta, where they will get a feel for the strength of the other competitors.
Tessa, a Carmel College student, has had a remarkable junior sailing career, winning the Optimist nationals twice, aged 11 and 12, winning the 29er and 420 nationals in the same season (2023) and going to the youth worlds in 2023 and 2024.
Will Mason (16) and teammate Will Leech smashed the field to win the national 29er title at the New Zealand youth champs, signalling that they will be contenders for the World youth title in December.
They took the boys’ title with a day to
spare, winning eight of 12 races. Their selection in the national youth team was almost a formality, but that didn’t diminish the excitement. “It’s the pinnacle event of youth sailing,” Mason said.
“We have the potential to win a medal but we need to sail our best,” he said. “We have to trust our training, trust in our ability and the results will come through.”
Mason and Leech met as rivals in junior yachting, racing Optimists, and had always thought they could team up as they got older. They linked up in December 2024, with Leech as helmsman and Mason, with a larger build, as crew.
A key segment of the pair’s training will be in Hong Kong from 21-30 November. They are among 15 boats invited to a training camp with top coaches and other leading sailors.
Their national champs win continues Mason’s stellar junior career. In 2023 he become the first sailor to win the national Optimist and Starling championships in the same season.
Top prospects… Will Leech (left) and Will Mason in winning form at the NZ youth sailing champs
SPRING INTO ACTION with Linda Simmons
Thinking of selling? The timing couldn’t be
Buyer activity is heating up! With strong demand for homes in the $2m–$4m price bracket, we currently have a genuine surplus of qualified purchasers who are ready and waiting to buy their dream home. If you’ve been thinking about selling, this Spring presents an exceptional opportunity to take advantage of the current favourable market conditions. Call me today for a confidential conversation about how we can maximise the value of your home.
Linda Simmons FOR MARKETING THAT SELLS &
THAT ASTOUNDS 027 459 0957
linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz
Earthquake strengthening changes a heritage windfall
A $3 million “elephant in the room” for Devonport’s historic Victoria Theatre seems to have vanished, now that government changes to seismic risk laws appear to have removed the need for costly earthquake strengthening.
The removal of the requirement for quake strengthening to most buildings in Auckland and Northland meant the Victoria Theatre Trust could focus on other improvements to the building such as putting in a lift, said trust co-chair Mark Sigglekow.
An engineering survey about five years ago had estimated the $3 million figure, which the trust has regarded as “something on the horizon”, as it was difficult to get grant money for the work, Sigglekow said.
While it was still possible the theatre would be included among 80 vulnerable buildings across New Zealand – and as a public venue it had to be safe – “in my interpretation of the regulations, the building should come out pretty unscathed,” he said.
Sigglekow, a retired civil engineer, said the building was in excellent condition and structurally sound.
While an earthquake strength rating done about 12 years ago put its rating around 16 per cent, he said: “I’ve never seen a crack anywhere in the building — it’s very well built, has great foundations (built on volcanic rock) and drains well.”
During the rain events in early 2023, the cinema was the only one on the North Shore which managed to trade through, when others were closed by leaks and flooding.
“We’ve got a soak pit which is around a century old but works well,” Sigglekow said.
Even the front of the building was comparatively free of issues, with no tall parapets and with reinforced concrete behind the street-facing framework.
Quake escape... Devonport’s historic Victoria Theatre appears to have avoided the need for costly earthquake-protection works
While the changes to government legislation removed the need for full-scale strengthening, Sigglekow has told fellow trustees that some strengthening and maintenance work still needed to be done over the next five to 10 years.
A potential fly in the good news ointment was the attitude to the revised laws of
‘Huge
Auckland Council, the owner of the Victoria Theatre building, which it bought 20 years ago for $1.5 million. The council had traditionally taken a very conservative attitude to its buildings. For example, tenants at 3 Victoria Rd were vacated due to its earthquake risk, but new owner Peninsula Capital has allowed The Depot back into the building.
relief’ for building owners
The earthquake strengthening changes will be “a huge relief” for all the owners of Victoria Rd’s heritage buildings, says Devonport Heritage chair Margot McRae.
Many of them had been facing huge strengthening bills, which put something of a cloud over their value and also pressure
on rents to help pay for the required work. Now, said McRae, the owners “won’t have to do full strengthening but they will have to do tie-backs to hold the pediments in place”. Overall, the change was “a very good decision for the country’s historic buildings,” McRae said
Seismic shift a boost to Peninsula Capital
The changes to the seismic laws will also have a huge impact on the more than a dozen Devonport village buildings owned by Peninsula Capital.
“The recent seismic decision is a great outcome for Auckland property owners,” said Nick Turley, Peninsula’s Devonport property manager.
“It enables a more practical minimum seismic strengthening approach, without automatically triggering additional building
code upgrades (such as fire compliance), provided there is no change of use.
“Although the bill still has a way to go, with further details yet to be released, and will not come into effect until 2027, it nonetheless marks a very positive step forward for Auckland and New Zealand,” Turley said.
Peninsula Capital is currently developing a long-term plan for its large Devonport property holding.
Density Debate
‘Hauraki Heights’ no joke with plan to allow 15 storeys
Hauraki Heights – a humorous local name to elevate the neighbourhood’s status – may one day become reality under Auckland’s draft plan change, which would extend the 15-storey buildings allowed in Takapuna into the residential suburb across Esmonde Rd.
The Takapuna metropolitan centre walkable catchment (10 minutes walk from the edge of the town centre) is one of the areas identified for upzoning by Auckland Council. As shown on the map opposite (in dark brown), the catchment’s Terrace Housing and Apartment Building (THAB) zone stretches well into northern Hauraki.
In the controversial raft of zoning changes across the city, the suburb’s potential upward development has largely flown under the radar.
The plan is expected to be notified for public feedback from 3 November until shortly before Christmas.
Auckland Council proposes allowable heights in the THAB zone covering much of residential central Takapuna to rise to 15 storeys, but this also applies on the western side of Lake Rd, south to Hauraki Corner.
On the eastern (seaward) side of Lake Rd, down to Hauraki Corner, the more standard THAB zone height of six storeys applies (with homes closest to the sea being in a single-house zone).
THAB areas between Takapuna and
Milford centres and in part of Belmont around Williamson Ave are also capped at six storeys.
The heart of Hauraki – running either side of Jutland Rd southwest from Hauraki corner to Hauraki Primary School, including areas off Francis St and Northboro Rd – is not zoned THAB. As with much of the Devonport peninsula, it is proposed to be Mixed Housing Urban Zone (shown in light tan). This would replace the blanket 3x3 housing of the Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) earlier decreed by government, but potentially allow for a similar scale of development, but with more council discretion.
Smaller pockets of the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board (DTLB) residential area are zoned Mixed Housing Suburban (yellow), allowing for homes of no more than two storeys. Much of Devonport will remain a single-house zone, due to its special character status of heritage homes.
Council voted to progress what is now called Plan Change 120 last month and had no opportunity to take initial public feedback due to a tight deadline set by Housing Minister Chris Bishop.
The new plan allows council to downzone in flood-prone areas and target intensification more around transport hubs and town centres, whereas the earlier plan drawn up
in response to the MDRS, known as PC78, did not.
The government directed that if PC78 was superseded, the new plan, PC120, needed to keep a potential growth capacity of an extra two million homes across Auckland, up from the 900,000 more envisaged in the 2016 Auckland Unitary Plan, into which any updated plan changes will eventually be incorporated. (The capacity is a notional figure, assuming every section across the city is developed to its maximum zoned capacity.)
Councillor Richard Hills urged people to have their say when the draft plan goes out for public feedback.
For Hauraki, which does not have a residents association, this will need individuals with strong views on the zoning to make submissions or push their newly elected representatives to be their voice.
The DTLB has said it wants upzoning pegged back where possible and more height setbacks allowed in transition zones.
• Devonport Heritage intends to fight against the removal of 257 properties from Special Character Area (SCA) status.
Although most of Devonport is protected from intensification due to its single-house zone, the group is concerned new builds on properties without SCA status may not match the heritage look of the area, including on prime sites along King Edward Pde.
Prime freehold corner — strong returns
• Diversified investment returning $177,780pa plus GST
• Freehold corner site in prime village position
• Tightly held suburb of Devonport
Occupying a high-profile corner in the heart of Devonport, Bayleys is pleased to present 83–85 Victoria Road, an immaculately presented, diversified investment in one of the North Shore’s most tightly held suburbs. bayleys.co.nz/1506954
Density Debate
Zoning colour code
This council map shows all THAB zoning in dark brown, but adds height figures to blocks where greater than six-storeys may be built. The 50m height equates to up to 15 storeys. The 34.5m figure indicates 10 storeys, as applies to some lower slopes, where zoning drops back to single houses only (cream) closer to the water.
Central Hauraki – running either side of Jutland Rd after Hauraki Corner, including areas off Francis St and Northboro Rd – is proposed to be a Mixed Housing Urban Zone (light tan), as it much of the rest of Devonport peninsula. Other residential pockets are zoned for the less intensive Mixed Housing Suburban (yellow), allowing homes of no more than two storeys.
Discovering the beach in retirement at last
Discovering the beach in retirement at last
Graham moved to the coast at 68 after a full career as a builder, dreaming of daily beach walks. Instead, he barely managed one short walk weekly.
“I’d moved here for this,” he says, gesturing at the coastline. “But my knees weren’t cooperating.”
His wife faced similar challenges. Their dream retirement was looking very different from what they’d imagined.
“We just accepted this was our life,” he recalls. “Watching others enjoy what we couldn’t.”
The turning point came when Graham read an article about Koru FX, a New Zealand-made natural cream.
“I was skeptical,” Graham admits. “But I kept thinking about the life I was missing.”
The natural, local ingredients convinced him. The cream’s 16 compounds create a triple-action formula: warming oils help penetration, peppermint and eucalyptus cool, while mānuka, arnica and calendula provide lasting support.
“It absorbed quickly with a nice peppermint smell,” he says. “Deep warming followed by cooling that lasted ages. I noticed it working really quickly.”
Within weeks, Graham’s beach walks became the new reality. His wife joined the routine, and they’re exploring coastline they’d only admired from afar.
“Just enough to take the edge off. Once you start moving again, that makes the difference.”
Word spread quickly. “Tomorrow I’m delivering bottles to a friend,” Graham laughs. “The irony, the guy who wouldn’t touch ‘natural products’ is now telling everyone.”
“All those cynical months,” he reflects. “I’m grateful to have finally got here.”
Top teen footballer heads for U-17 World Cup,
Fifteen-year-old Ariana Vosper is off to the Under-17 Women’s Football World Cup, and has every chance of a bright future in a sport that is very much a family passion.
On Monday, the Year 10 Takapuna Grammar student and her teammates were presented with their New Zealand shirts before flying out to Morocco, where they begin their campaign against Japan on 20 October.
Ariana is following in the footsteps of her sister, Saskia, aged 26, who played in the under-17 cup when it was held in Jordan a decade ago, before a professional stint with the Phoenix. Brother DJ (23) –named coach of the year at North Shore United last month (story, page 37) – rounds out the talented trio from Devonport.
Before Christmas, Ariana will travel with her parents to England, where she will trial to join youth pathway set-ups at several top teams. “She’s seen what her elder sister can do and she’s following in her footsteps and taking it to the next level,” says her father Andy. “If she’s selected we’d go over there to get her established.”
For her part, Ariana is modest about the opportunity. “It’s pretty cool, I feel like it’s a good experience, even if I don’t make it through trials,” she tells the Flagstaff.
Her track record is impressive. As well as having made national age-groups teams for the last few years, including playing in
Spacious ground floor waterfront apartment
Nestled amongst lush, landscaped gardens at the mid-century Devon Park complex, this generously sized two-bedroom ground floor apartment offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal charm. Wake to the sound of native birdsong outside your window with glistening harbour views beyond. Expansive sliding doors from the spacious living room open to a patio where you can start your day with a coffee or enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif watching the city light up. Steps lead down to a jetty for a dip at high tide. A communal solar-heated saltwater pool is open all summer long for leisurely swims or a few laps for a workout. If you're downsizing, investing, or looking for a serene lifestyle change, this property is a real winner. bayleys.co.nz/1470769
the under 16s this year to qualify for the U17 Cup, she was tapped to join Auckland FC’s women’s development programme involving players up to under-19 level.
Ariana has also joined Saskia on the roster of Auckland United’s premier women’s team, which plays in the national league and contested the Oceania football club championships in Tahiti. The versatile midfield and defence player has clocked up a few games off the premier bench. She is in the club’s academy and U15 boys’ side.
Andy and wife Brenda are right behind their children’s sporting endeavours.
“They get such a lot out of it,” Andy says. “That competitive drive, discipline, hard work and team work.” He played football himself, though “not at this level”.
For Ariana, it all started with mini football at North Shore United, and going through the age grades there in boys’ teams. Andy says the experience of doing sliding tackles on boys has stood her in good stead. “She’s fair but feisty and doesn’t get pushed around,” he adds. After time doing well in junior athletics, which helped her game, she turned her focus fully on football. Unfortunately, her club, academy and national commitments rule out playing for school due to the injury risk.
The tight-knit family works as a team to get her to practices.
On the mark... Ariana Vosper after scoring against American Samoa at the Oceania U16 tournament in Samoa in August
with UK opportunities to follow
“When Ariana was younger, it was just in Devonport, so she walked or cycled to practice,” says Brenda. That taught her independence, but the transport logistics became more complicated as venues and the number of training sessions expanded, including a couple of seasons when she played at Western Rangers.
“I’m lucky I’ve got Saskia and Daniel to help as well,” Brenda says.
Ariana embraces training, including in a home gym. “I was born around football, as soon as I walked I was pretty much involved,” she says.
DJ says she has good game IQ and her older sister advises her to make the most of what football can offer.
“It’s a cool opportunity to travel the world with your game,” says Saskia.
Both the older Vosper siblings are out of action for now. DJ, a North Shore United under-23 team player, has been on crutches this season after breaking then reinjuring bones in his foot. He has stayed very busy coaching five age-grade teams.
Kia ora and Hello Devonport,
Welcome to ‘Ask Mrs. N0ughty’, your monthly advice column where we answer all your most pressing waste questions!
Dear Mrs. N0ughty: Why can’t we put bottle tops in our recycling bins anymore?
Signed, Mo St. Everyone
Dear Mo St. Everyone:
Saskia recently had a serious knee injury, thwarting her Auckland FC season. She is studying for a masters in sports science at AUT and hoping Auckand FC will launch a women’s professional side into the Australian league.
Saskia says the football set-up and pathways have definitely developed since she went to the U17 World Cup. “They’re more prepared.”
For Ariana, the trip to play in Morocco is still a step into the unknown. Cup commitments will play out over between two weeks and a month, depending on whether New Zealand makes it out of the group stage. The team expects Japan to be very tough opposition, but know less about their other pool opponents, Paraguay and Zambia.
Ariana knows her family will be cheering her on from home.
Explaining football’s appeal to her personally, she says: “The team sport of it, and the feel and the passion.”
• U17 World Cup games will be screened on Fifa+
North Shore FUNERALS
NELSON & SUSAN ELLIOTT
It’s true, we used to put bottle tops in our recycling bins, but in 2024 the rules changed. Why? 1. The lids are made from a different plastic and when left on the bottle and recycled together they decrease the overall quality, and 2. When loose, they are too small for machines to sort so they end up contaminating the glass recycling stream and going to landfill.
However, you CAN recycle bottle tops here at RRD, New World, Devo Community House, The Rose Centre, and many local schools! Signed, Mrs. N0ughty
P.S. If you are still reading, you are our type of human! Might you be interested in volunteering? We need help running the till and keeping the reuse shop clean and tidy. Scan the QR code below for more info!
Send your burning questions to community@ devonportrecycle.co.nz and let’s sort through this rubbish together!
Volunteer Role
Description and EOI
Halloween workshops for ages 7-12
Oct 19th and 26th 1-4pm
Family affair… Ariana (centre) with brother DJ and sister Saskia
By Rob Drent
What to make of A Fresh Approach’s latein-the-day decision to drop Israel-born Jewish woman Karin Horen from its ticket just a couple of weeks out from the close of voting for a seat on the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board?
Pressure was obviously building on A Fresh Approach when Horen’s pro-Israeli postings were questioned at an election meeting in Devonport.
However, after dropping her, it cited worries over “security concerns” for its members. Ticket spokesperson and local board deputy chair Terence Harpur said Horen had also shared right-wing posts.
Another Fresh Approach candidate Lewis Rowe went further, telling The Platform radio host Sean Plunket that Horen had been linked to the Family First group and did not “align” with A Fresh Approach views.
The political alignments of local body tickets are always a bit murky. They aren’t political parties and can include a range of perspectives. Moreover, how much bearing a candidate’s personal political beliefs should
have in local body elections is also open to question, when decisions are being made over skateparks, not international relations.
Is A Fresh Approach essentially muzzling free speech? And is this the type of approach that is wanted around the board table when differing views are held?
The way it’s been handled has a smell of stale politics-as-usual – much the same as when A Fresh Approach members blocked Mike Single (as next highest polling candidate) from joining the local board after Toni van Tonder’s departure to Australia.
At the very least, A Fresh Approach should have done better due diligence on Horen before adding her to the team.
Graffiti on a billboard in Bayswater Ave labelled Horen a Zionist, and she says she has received “hateful messages”. To her credit, she has continued to attend public meetings and advocate her take on local issues.
The viability of Devonport’s commercial town centre got a major shot in the arm with the cabinet approving a proposal that will remove 1800-plus buildings in Auckland, Northland and coastal Otago from earthquake-strengthening requirements.
The strengthening has been described as the “elephant in the room” by Mark Sigglekow the co-chair of the Victoria Theatre Trust, which faced a $3 million strengthening bill. He and all of the owners of Devonport’s old brick buildings breathed a collective
sigh of relief.
The strengthening measures across the country after the Christchurch quakes were overkill. Not only did they place an onerous, perhaps unnecessary, financial burden on property owners in lower risk areas, they also put the viability of many old brick buildings at risk. Owners could not afford to strengthen them, so some have fallen into disrepair.
The need to strengthen Devonport buildings meant a greater return would be required, increasing the risk of developments at the rear of sites and the threat of “facadism”, with only the street frontages of heritage buildings retained.
A massive future cost has been removed from owners’ balance sheets. It means a healthier and more vibrant town centre in the short and long term.
Hats off to North Shore Rugby Club premiers captain Donald Coleman, who was named man of the match in North Harbour’s win against Southland in the NPC last weekend. Coleman has played more than 100 games for Shore and waited close to a decade for his North Habour call-up. He was selected this season but only made a couple of appearances off the bench. He started last weekend for the first time and North Harbour beat Southland 15-14 – Harbour’s last match for the season but first win after nine straight losses. Hopefully it was the first of many starts for Coleman in seasons to come.
Classic Art Deco design, perfect proportions and a dream location make this two-bedroom home ideal for downsizers, couples and small families who love the Devonport lifestyle. It’s the middle one of three in the charming and tightly held Stretton Flats block, which is just a few minutes stroll to the village. Feature Deco detailing and an elevated aspect gives the property impressive street appeal and most of the windows are double glazed. The rear garden is spacious and private and enjoys a glimpse of the harbour, so is the perfect place to host friends as well as for kids and small pets to play safely. The area is fully fenced and has driveway access to park a car off-street securely. bayleys.co.nz/1470777
bayleys.co.nz
Charming Devonport bungalow
Tucked away in a quiet Devonport cul-de-sac, this much-loved character bungalow is a rare find in one of Auckland’s most desirable locations. Owned by the same family since the 1980s, it blends timeless charm with exciting potential. The main level offers three bedrooms, a study, two bathrooms, a cosy lounge with gas fire, separate dining and a functional kitchen. Upstairs, the private master retreat boasts a balcony with city views, ensuite, office and storage. A flat section with garage, off-street parking and gardens adds further appeal, all just a short stroll to the village, ferry, beaches and schools. Don't miss this opportunity. Enquire today! bayleys.co.nz/1470784
bayleys.co.nz
4 2 3 1
Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 6 Nov 2025
Deceased estate. On the market for the first time in over 50 years, this much-loved Devonport home brims with character and potential. Set in one of the suburb’s most sought-after streets, it’s moments from beaches, shops, parks, the golf course and top schools, with the village and ferry nearby for an easy city commute. Offering three bedrooms, separate lounge and dining, a functional kitchen and sunny porches front and back, plus an upstairs living area opening to a balcony with sea glimpse. A garage, carport, off-street parking and large garden complete this rare opportunity. This is a rare chance to renovate, extend or simply enjoy a classic Devonport home. bayleys.co.nz/1470781 bayleys.co.nz
Devonport 6 Domain Street
3 2 2 1
Prime position, endless potential.
Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 30 Oct 2025
28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna
View Sat/Sun 12.15-12.45pm
Lynda Betts 021 278 3024
Deceased estate. On the market for the first time in over brims with character and potential. Set in one of the suburb’s moments from beaches, shops, parks, the golf course and nearby for an easy city commute. Offering three bedrooms, kitchen and sunny porches front and back, plus an upstairs glimpse. A garage, carport, off-street parking and large
lynda.betts@bayleys.co.nz
This is a rare chance to renovate, extend or simply enjoy bayleys.co.nz/1470781
bayleys.co.nz
Skatepark plan progresses, though questions linger
The controversial new skatepark planned for Woodall Park will proceed to detailed design.
But questions over the where, when and how of building the facility will carry over into the new year.
The outgoing Devonport-Takapuna Local Board voted 3-2 in favour of the project proceeding to detailed design at the final business meeting of its term last month.
The new board will approve final council plans and costs before construction.
The skatepark – supported by 69 per cent of people in a public consultation last year – has already been downsized to meet its budget of $945,000, after estimates blew out to $1.1million.
Residents for and against having the skatepark sited near the path by the existing pump track put their cases to the board before chair Mel Powell, deputy Terence Harpur and Peter Allen voted to progress the project.
George Wood and Gavin Busch voted against, and also put up an unsuccessful motion to have the project publicly notified.
Remaining issues for the project include the risks and future cost implications of building a concrete skatepark on what is a former dump site.
The turnout at the community forum session before the vote included eight
young people.
A teenage girl spoke against building on the park, while a younger boy, with three others standing in support, said the “ideal” location would be much easier to get to and safer than using the run-down Ngataringa Park skatepark.
Key adult speakers were diametrically opposed.
Wairoa Rd resident and engineer Cameron Smythe, who has consistently opposed the project, again said the site was unsuitable and that costs could spiral.
Residents had been excluded from discussions by council, he claimed, despite early skatepark champion and then board chair Toni van Tonder having promised they would be involved.
But his trump card was recently uncovering two council-commissioned reports by consultants done in mid-2024, which were only presented to the board at a workshop the week before its last meeting.
He said the site investigation and geotech reports should have been available to the board and the public before the public consultation.
Council project leader Xavier Choi later said this was not done because the consultation was about location.
The Skatepark Advisory Group’s Dave Casey said Smythe had held up the
project for a year, “regurgitating” claims of a potential cost blowout, saying the community did not want the skatepark and questioning council and professionals.
The board debate was divided between those happy to wait for the detailed design phase to answer further questions about the project, and Wood and Busch who wanted issues resolved first.
Of planning and information to date, Busch said: “Part of the jigsaw hasn’t been done and you want us to move to the next stage.”
Work still required included a flood assessment, he said.
Busch also suggested moving the project to Montgomery Reserve in Belmont.
Harpur maintained the board had heard from the expert consultants, who said building on landfill and toxic soil could be worked around as was often done.
Council staff and Watercare had also said the skatepark could be moved closer to the path, rather than protruding into the park, he said.
Powell said: “It will take a lot of discussion to get this right. There’s a lot of views around this and we have a very motivated community in Devonport and they use the democratic process.”
It was right to look at the project carefully, knowing it carried some risks, she said.
Never a dull Thursday at Hospice Shop
Harbour Hospice’s Devonport shop celebrates its 10th anniversary this month — and so will a group of its regular local volunteers dubbed the Thursday Girls.
Beth McGregor, Sue Webb, Hiromi Kozuka and Judi Duigan have all worked in the shop together since the first Thursday it opened. Starting out as strangers, they are now firm friends, says Kozuka.
“Lots of people have come and gone, or changed their days over the years, but the four of us have always come in on Thursday. We’re here, rain or shine.”
They have supported one another through bereavements and other difficult times, but they’ve also enjoyed plenty of good times together, with Webb often entertaining them as the Hospice Shop “house model”.
Retail manager Tess McGregor says: “Sue’s even done a whole shift in a ballroom dancing outfit.”
HOME BUSINESS - For Sale
For this story, Webb put on a pantsuit whipped off the shop mannequin before the photograph, with Duigan helping her accessorise the outfit.
McGregor, who has also been at the shop since its opening, says all of its volunteers are invaluable. She likens the shop to a community hub.
“We do have a lot of fun, and we’re extremely well supported by the local community.”
She recalls that this support extended to a warm welcome from the Anglican op-shop, which was then the only other charity shop in the village.“They made a point of coming in and welcoming us, so I’ve done the same with each new charity store that has come into the area since.”
McGregor, a former giraffe keeper at Auckland Zoo, was new to both retail and managing a team when she took up the job.
HOME BUSINESS - For Sale
Hammock World, a successful at Melrose House, 183 is for Sale. Business focused on traditional the business receiving a recognition of being a leading business in NZ.” Today the hand sprang-woven by in Mayan villages in Hammock World has a unique agreement, to continue receiving Hammocks, enabling a Best Warranty to be maintained.
“But I was just so supported by my volunteers that we have flourished.
“The wonderful thing about them is that it’s not just their time they donate. They bring a wealth of knowledge and life experience, with backgrounds in logistics, retail and customer service, which was invaluable to a rookie retail manager like me,” McGregor says.
“They are genuinely interested in our customers, and always entertaining.”
The Thursday Girls have all been touched by Hospice personally and speak highly of its compassionate and specialist care.
Duigan told a customer that after 10 years volunteering together, they found the experience “even better” than in the beginning. • To celebrate its first 10 years, the shop will be serving birthday cake and offering those who make a purchase the chance to try a lucky dip for a discount.
HOME BUSINESS - For Sale
HOME BUSINESS - For Sale
HOME BUSINESS - For Sale
Established in 1997, Hammock World, a successful business located at Melrose House, 183 Victoria Rd, Devonport is for Sale. Business proprietor Michael Bennetts focused on traditional hammocks, with the business receiving a Telecom Award “In recognition of being a leading inspirational home business in NZ.” Today the hammocks are still hand sprang-woven by indigenous adult artisans in Mayan villages in Central America. Hammock World has a unique rights supplier agreement, to continue receiving genuine nylon Mayan Hammocks, enabling a Best Industry 5-yr Outdoor Warranty to be maintained.
Established in 1997, Hammock World, a successful home business located at Melrose House, 183 Victoria Rd, Devonport is for Sale. Business proprietor Michael Bennetts focused on traditional style hammocks, with the business receiving a Telecom Award “In recognition of being a leading inspirational home business in NZ.” Today the hammocks are still hand sprang-woven by indigenous adult artisans in Mayan villages in Central America. Hammock World has a unique sole rights supplier agreement, to continue receiving genuine nylon Mayan Hammocks, enabling a Best in Industry 5-yr Outdoor Warranty to be maintained.
Established in 1997, Hammock World, a successful home business located at Melrose House, 183 Rd, Devonport is for Sale. Business proprietor Michael Bennetts focused on traditional style hammocks, with the business receiving a Telecom Award “In recognition of being a leading inspirational home business in NZ.” Today the hammocks are still hand sprang-woven by indigenous adult artisans in Mayan villages in Central America. Hammock World has a unique sole rights supplier agreement, to continue receiving genuine nylon Mayan Hammocks, enabling a Best in Industry 5-yr Outdoor Warranty to be maintained.
Established in 1997, Hammock World, a successful home business located at Melrose House, 183 Victoria Rd, Devonport is for Sale. Business proprietor Michael Bennetts focused on traditional style hammocks, with the business receiving a Telecom Award “In recognition of being a leading inspirational home business in NZ.” Today the hammocks are still hand sprang-woven by indigenous adult artisans in Mayan villages in Central America. Hammock World has a unique sole rights supplier agreement, to continue receiving genuine nylon Mayan Hammocks, enabling a Best in Industry 5-yr Outdoor Warranty to be maintained.
rated on Google, and for weather-proof Mayan good stocks of hammock hammocks, support stands etc. included NZ Trademarks, with
design registrations offering security for hammocks sold online in NZ and Australia. As a boutique home business, a small work area is needed for accessory finishing and stock storage. Hammock World is being offered for sale locally, with Michael’s support for NZ sourced and crafted accessories, including liaison with the Mexican supplier through the first summer, to develop a new working relationship.
Hammock World is highly rated on Google, and foremost retailer for weather-proof Mayan Hammocks in NZ with good stocks of hammock double hammocks, support stands etc. Product development included NZ Trademarks, with
Established in 1997, Hammock World, a successful home business located at Melrose House, 183 Victoria Rd, Devonport is for Sale. Business proprietor Michael Bennetts focused on traditional style hammocks, with the business receiving a Telecom Award “In recognition of being a leading inspirational home business in NZ.” Today the hammocks are still hand sprang-woven by indigenous adult artisans in Mayan villages in Central America. Hammock World has a unique sole rights supplier agreement, to continue receiving genuine nylon Mayan Hammocks, enabling a Best in Industry 5-yr Outdoor Warranty to be maintained.
design registrations offering security for hammocks sold online in NZ and Australia. As a boutique home business, a small work area is needed for accessory finishing and stock storage. Hammock World is being offered for sale locally, with Michael’s support for NZ sourced and crafted accessories, including liaison with the Mexican supplier through the first summer, to develop a new working relationship.
design registrations offering security for hammocks sold online in NZ and Australia. As a boutique home business, a small work area is needed for accessory finishing and stock storage. Hammock World is being offered for sale locally, with Michael’s support for NZ sourced and crafted accessories, including liaison with the Mexican supplier through the first summer, to develop a new working relationship.
design registrations offering security for hammocks sold online in NZ and Australia. As a boutique home business, a small work area is needed for accessory finishing and stock storage. Hammock World is being offered for sale locally, with Michael’s for NZ sourced and crafted accessories, including liaison with the Mexican supplier through the first summer, to develop a new working relationship.
design registrations offering security for hammocks sold online in NZ and Australia. As a boutique home business, a small work area is needed for accessory finishing and stock storage. Hammock World is being offered for sale locally, with Michael’s support for NZ sourced and crafted accessories, including liaison with the Mexican supplier through the first summer, to develop a new working relationship.
HOME BUSINESS - For Sale
www.hammockworld.co.nz
www.hammockworld.co.nz
www.hammockworld.co.nz
www.hammockworld.co.nz
design registrations offering security for hammocks sold online in NZ and Australia. As a boutique home business, a small work area is needed for accessory finishing and stock storage. Hammock World is being offered for sale locally, with Michael’s support for NZ sourced and crafted accessories, including liaison with the Mexican supplier through the first summer, to develop a new working relationship.
www.hammockworld.co.nz
A great future for Hammock World exists on Social Media, not currently being utilised! Reason for selling, is due to Michael’s enduring passion with the great outdoors. As a previous global wilderness adventure guide, his time and energy are increasingly devoted to his other passion. Michael is willing to meet to discuss the sale of Hammock World at his Melrose House showroom.
Hammock World is highly rated on Google, and is the foremost retailer for weather-proof Mayan Hammocks in NZ with good stocks of hammock chairs, double hammocks, support stands etc. Product development included NZ Trademarks, with
Hammock World is highly rated on Google, and is the foremost retailer for weather-proof Mayan Hammocks in NZ with good stocks of hammock chairs, double hammocks, support stands etc. Product development included NZ Trademarks, with
Hammock World is highly rated on Google, and is the foremost retailer for weather-proof Mayan Hammocks in NZ with good stocks of hammock chairs, double hammocks, support stands etc. Product development included NZ Trademarks, with
A great future for Hammock World exists on Social Media, not currently being utilised! Reason for selling, is due to Michael’s enduring passion with the great outdoors. As a previous global wilderness adventure guide, his time and energy are increasingly devoted to his other passion. Michael is willing to meet to discuss the sale of Hammock World at his Melrose House showroom. For an appointment please phone 445 3999 or email office@hammockworld.co.nz
Hammock World is highly rated on Google, and is the foremost retailer for weather-proof Mayan Hammocks in NZ with good stocks of hammock chairs, double hammocks, support stands etc.
For an appointment please phone 445 3999 or email office@hammockworld.co.nz
A great future for Hammock World exists on Social Media, not currently being utilised! Reason for selling, is due to Michael’s enduring passion with the great outdoors. As a previous global wilderness adventure guide, his time and energy are increasingly devoted to his other passion. Michael is willing to meet to discuss the sale of Hammock World at his Melrose House showroom. For an appointment please phone 445 3999 or email office@hammockworld.co.nz
A great future for Hammock World exists on Social Media, not currently being utilised! Reason for selling, is due to Michael’s enduring passion with the great outdoors. As a previous global wilderness adventure guide, his time and energy are increasingly devoted to his other passion. Michael is willing to meet to discuss the sale of Hammock World at his Melrose House showroom. For an appointment please phone 445 3999 or email office@hammockworld.co.nz
A great future for Hammock World exists on Social Media, not currently being utilised! Reason for selling, is due to Michael’s enduring passion with the great outdoors. As a previous global wilderness adventure guide, his time and energy are increasingly devoted to his other passion. Michael is willing to meet to discuss the sale of Hammock World at his Melrose House showroom. For an appointment please phone 445 3999 or email office@hammockworld.co.nz
www.hammockworld.co.nz
A great future for Hammock World exists on Social Media, not currently being utilised! Reason for selling, is due to Michael’s enduring passion with the great outdoors. As a previous global wilderness adventure guide, his time and energy are increasingly devoted to his other passion. Michael is willing to meet to discuss the sale of Hammock World at his Melrose House showroom. For an appointment please phone 445 3999 or email
Originals... (from left) Beth McGregor, Sue Webb, Judi Duigan and Hiromi Kozuka have worked together for a decade. Right: store manager Tess McGregor.
Developer aims to give walkway priority under land swap
Priority has been given to a new community path and cycleway linking Eversleigh Rd to Northboro Reserve when construction of a retirement village on Belmont’s old Hillary block begins – though that will be at least two years away.
The pathway – made possible by a land swap between Auckland Council and village developer Summerset – will come at no cost to ratepayers.
Although the proposed swap needs to go through a public notification process next year before it is formalised, both the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board and Summerset hope residents will see the deal they have been working on for months as a “win-win”.
The pathway would provide a wider, more direct and less steep route into the reserve, running alongside Lowe St from Eversleigh Rd.
Swap plan... Under a proposed deal, Auckland Council would give Summerset the land under lanes (in red above) from Hillary Cres to the esplanade in exchange for the strip (in blue) running by Lowe St direct into Northboro Reserve
Where it would join the reserve path near the playground, Summerset would pay for toilets and seating, along with landscaping there and by Lowe St, where powerlines will be put underground.
At its September business meeting, the local board unanimously approved proceeding with the land-swap notification and for council staff to formalise a legal agreement with Summerset. Board members asked council staff to ensure timelines for pathway construction were included in the agreement.
The company’s development director for the Belmont project, Jon Harris, told the
lanes from Hillary Cres to the esplanade path.
The laneways would be absorbed into Summerset’s nearly 5.8ha site. Harris said this gave the ability to have a closed site, both during construction and later.
“Our residents have told us that they value a secure village.
“Our win out of it is a village that is secure for residents and with a good balanced outcome for the community too.”
The costs of doing the work on the community facilities were “not insignificant”, he said.
Harris said the idea for the land swap came
a better gradient for prams and bikes leading to the reserve’s cycleway, the parties started talks on how to make it happen.
The public esplanade path around the village site, remains.
Harris praised the board and the council for the work involved, including a series of workshops. “We’ve just stepped through it.” He hoped community feedback would support the swap, saying Summerset had updated Belmont locals about the proposal this month, working from a community database it set up from an information evening in April.
“If we can do the pathway earlier [in the wider project], it means we can close off other access early and have a clear runway on the rest of the site.”
The company was committed to keep people informed and answer any questions during the village build.
Additional work Summerset has undertaken to do at its cost – building an accessible boardwalk to replace dilapidated steep stairs from the esplanade path to the bottom of Eversleigh Rd – will occur later in the project, improving a path towards Bayswater.
The retirement village of 300 to 350 units will be built over five to seven years.
Council staff said the Lowe St land swap would provide council with an extra 674sqm
Location and lifestyle | Cheltenham villa
Perfectly positioned at the end of a quiet, tightly held cul-de-sac, this much-admired character villa is offered for sale for the very first time in over 80 years. Step inside and feel the warmth and charm. High stud ceilings, ornate pressed detailing and native timber floors speak to its Edwardian era. Filled with light and character, the home offers four generous bedrooms, a large living and sitting room, plus dining and kitchen spaces. This Deceased Estate will be sold! bayleys.co.nz/1451802
Demolition starts on Lake Rd buildings
Demolition of two derelict Auckland Council-owned buildings off Lake Rd will start this week.
The buildings – one two-storey and the other single-storey – are located next to the Claystore, which will be unaffected by the work.
The demolition method is deconstruction — whereby materials will be reused or recycled where possible to reduce waste going to landfill. Works are expected to begin on 13 October and finish on 21 November.
Some asbestos is expected to be found in the buildings, but experts will be employed to get rid of it. Dust control measures such as water spraying, suppression agents and barriers will be used.
Council has been criticised by some for letting the buildings get in such a poor condition that they needed demolishing.
Staying put... the Claystore (right) will not be affected by the demolition
Sitting in this exclusive Cheltenham location and set back from the road, this is a large and majestic five bedroom, three bathroom, double garaging home which has a Private Beach Access secreted away down the driveway. Beach and sun and family. Simply Perfect. barfoot.co.nz/920192
Barfoot & Thompson Limited
Barfoot & Thompson Limited Licensed REAA 2008
Having travelled the world many times, the owners have found this home, on the volcanic rocks of North Head, to be the best place in the world. So will you!
TENDER
2:00pm 30 Oct 2025 at 39 Victoria Road, Devonport (unless sold prior) VIEWING Sunday 11.00 - 11.45am
This unique beautiful home offers classic style with sea & city views. Simply stunning, come
Fantastic street appeal, the home makes a striking first impression and offers fantastic family living. BAYSWATER 76A NORWOOD ROAD
barfoot.co.nz/918968
10:00am 2 Oct 2025 at 8-12 The Promenade, Takapuna (unless sold prior)
PARADE
10:00am 25 Sept 2025 The Promenade, Takapuna (unless sold prior) VIEWING By Appointment
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 AUCTION
Where can you purchase waterfront at this level. Stunning Harbour and City Views. Priced to selldon't delay.
barfoot.co.nz/916875
$2,450,000 VIEWING Sat/Sun 2:00-2:30pm
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 FOR SALE
Devonport 09 445 2010 Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club
Step into the timeless charm of this beautifully presented 1900’s Devonport villa.
barfoot.co.nz/918641
AUCTION
12:00pm 8 Oct 2025 at Devonport (Branch Office) (unless sold prior)
VIEWING
Phone For Viewing Times
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681
Come and discover this spacious villa perfect for family living in the heart of Devonport.
barfoot.co.nz/920545
AUCTION
10:00am 23 Oct 25 at 8-12
The Promenade, Takapuna (unless sold prior)
VIEWING Sat/Sun 1.00-1.30pm
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681
Spreading the word about burning issues
Finding fulfilment among the bins in a small recycling room at William Sanders retirement village might be a stretch for some, but it works for Ralph Cooney. And many of the residents who run into him there know they can learn a great deal by listening to what he has to say about recycling and the workings of the world.
Cooney found himself living happily in the village when life circumstances changed and made the ease of apartment living look like the right choice for him and his wife Anne late last year. The 82-year-old arrived with a zest and determination to put back into the community with whatever he had to offer.
Cooney is Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at the University of Auckland, where he was once Head of Chemistry and Dean of Science. He’s secured many millions in funding for major MBIE research programmes, served in government-appointed roles and reached beyond the university into many industry partnerships. His specialisation is surface chemistry, which reaches across pretty much everything with a surface.
He retired formally only in 2020, but then had a whole other job to embrace heading into his late 70s. He wanted to talk science to the wider community, using his expertise to help lay people make better sense of issues such as climate change, Covid-19 and vaccine developments.
He and Anne had already left the city to embrace life on a Kaipara lifestyle block, tending many fruit trees, planting more and taming big lawns on his ride-on mower. He’ll always miss the bountiful fruit, such as the custard apples he grew. “In the season it was like trying to swallow a deluge,” he says. “We found a wonderful community up there and we loved reaching out into that.”
Cooney says the balance of the full
lives they led there suited them perfectly. As well as tending their land, he wrote science opinion pieces for international publications and for newspapers including his local paper. People in his community wanted to hear more on topics of critical interest, and he found himself pulling in
good audiences wherever he gave public talks around the region.
But the passage of time, along with a youth spent surfing and playing sport in the Queensland sunshine, was about to catch up with the fair-skinned Cooney. After a lifetime of battling skin issues, he realised
Pulling the crowds... Ralph Cooney attracted a full house for his recent talk on climate change and solar power at Devonport’s
he needed to come in out of the weather and move closer to medical support.
“It became clear that we’d need to move back down here.”
In his first year as a resident of William Sanders, Cooney says he’s been delighted with the new life he and Anne are quickly finding in Devonport.
True to form, he soon found a niche to carry on with his public talks aimed at clarifying the science that underpins issues he knows are important.
With a head full of knowledge, he says he feels an obligation to share. At his recent debut at Devonport’s U3A, where he talked about climate change and the potential of solar energy, he was gratified to address a full house.
“People are very concerned about climate change and I feel a moral obligation to talk about it where I can and to help people understand.”
He says it’s a high-priority concern, and that scientists across all disciplines should be contributing to understanding of the science involved.
A realisation that climate change was challenging for non-scientists to grasp and that there was a role for scientists to step up and help develop understanding has motivated him to spend many hours in his retirement doing just that.
A poll cited by Nasa found 80 to 90 per cent of people were concerned about climate change, although 10 per cent believed humans were not involved in its causes.
Cooney leads into his climate-change presentation by reminding his audience of 10 of the deadliest extreme weather events of the past decade and the thousands of deaths that came with them – heatwaves, rain deluges, droughts, a cyclone and a typhoon. There were many other lesser but still deadly extreme weather events.
And over that period, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have gone higher than at any time in the past 800,000 years. Measurements show carbon dioxide emissions have soared since 1970, says Cooney, illustrating his points with simple graphics from widely acknowledged data.
Now, he says, measurements show those emissions look to be peaking as their production from fossil fuels is limited by renewable energy technologies and safer, cleaner energy sources.
If we don’t restore the earth’s climate, scientists predict around 375 million deaths
“People are very concerned about climate change and I feel a moral obligation to talk about it where I can...”
by 2100, accompanied by many extreme weather events and the spread of disease.
The increasing loss of habitat for many creatures will increase sharply. The costs of getting through all these disasters will rise, Cooney reminds his audience: Cyclone Gabrielle, the costliest on record in the Southern Hemisphere, came at a cost of $14.5 billion for New Zealand, Australia and Vanuatu.
Cooney is pleased with the reception his talks are getting locally. Around the village he often has a chat with his peers about the topic, whether preaching to the converted or widening the eyes of the uncertain .
Beautifully crafted cabinetry designed for comfort, style, and timeless appeal
Neo Design specialises in premium kitchens, bathrooms, and bespoke cabinetry, delivering expert craftsmanship, precision, and flawless finishes. Experience custom designs, superior workmanship, and a commitment to excellence—guaranteed.
Call us for a free consultation
“I always take the chance to talk people across and I know I have been able to make it clear for quite a few people. That is very satisfying.”
The world is now moving onto the right track, with the use of renewable energy technologies, he says.
“This is a very significant first step in restoring the global climate.”
This month he has published his thoughts on the critical role nuclear fusion could play long-term in cleaning up the planet, although many may not live to see that.
Meanwhile, there’s plenty to be done close to home, from keeping an eye on the recycling room he’s rightly proud to be part of, to helping lead discussion in the community of around 250 residents about doing better with their recycling.
Already, he says, he is impressed with what he’s seen, but there’s still a need for a greater percentage of waste to find its way to recycling.
His fellow octogenarians are doing well and are keen to get it right, he says.
A recent panel on how to do better brought a turnout of about 80 people into the communal lounge to hear more. He’s proud to say they’ll be reaching out to other Ryman villages to work with them on upping their recycling game.
Meanwhile, during the occasional encounter around those clearly marked collection bins, he’s happy to impart his knowledge.
It’s the ubiquitous plastic Coke bottles, he says, that poke out of the jumble dumped in landfills. “Everyone here will say ‘hey that’s not us. We don’t drink Coke’. And I point out that they do carry plastic water bottles. It’s those they have to make sure they are putting into the right bins for recycling.
“It’s easy enough for everyone to be getting it right.”
CUSTOM KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, AND CABINETRY TO FIT YOUR VISION
WHAT'S HAPPENING
at the Devonport Community House in October!
Term 4 has started at the Devonport Community House! We have a wide variety of classes, workshops and events this term. We look forward to welcoming you back to the House!
Dementia Carers & Chats
Thursday 30th September
Fiona Colbert, manager of Ryman’s William Sanders, is joining us at the Devonport Community House on Thursday 30th October at 12PM RSVP to rixt@devonportcomhouse.co.nz
Kids + Teens Market
Sunday 2nd November
A market for the kids and teens, run by the kids and teens! Sell your homemade wares, preloved goods or magic tricks. Secure a table by emailing maddy@devonportcomhouse.co.nz
Babysitting Workshop (THIS SUNDAY!!)
Sunday 13th October
For the upcoming babysitters in our area to learn the important skills they require to be a confident, competent and kind sitter! events.humanitix.com/ babysitting-workshop-dch
Thread Room is now at the House!
All of term 4 & beyond. We are so excited to have Thread Room coming to the House for Term 4 with a range of classes for all ages and stages! They have a class for everyone so head to threadroom.co.nz/classes to find your ideal session. Make sure to keep up to date with all our classes, workshops and events follow us on Facebook, Instagram or head to our website www.devonportcomhouse.com
20 years ago from the Flagstaff files
• North Shore City Mayor George Wood is accused by Flagstaff editor Rob Drent of letting down Devonport and his office by attempting to derail his council’s possible purchase of the Devonport Cinema. Wood had put forward a motion to rescind previous council decisions to proceed with community consultation over the cinema and to put it on the back burner.
• Wade Grantham is in the winning team at the Bayswater School duathlon for the fourth year in a row.
• A Christmas star which can be seen from all over Auckland is planned for the top of Mt Victoria.
• Posters promoting Vauxhall School’s “Monster Mash” are stolen by ghoulish thieves.
• Loaded Dice, featuring band members Chris Smart (13), Sam Harper (12), Charles Pettifer (12) and Anthony Drent (12), debuts at the Masonic, performing six originals including “Slacker”, “Empty Wallet” and “They Died Young”.
• Devonport’s Zigana cafe and coffee roastery wins three gold medals at the New Zealand Coffee Awards.
• Fast-food franchises target the Devonport peninsula, with Hell’s Pizza launching at Lake Rd in Belmont and a Subway planned for Victoria Rd in the main village.
• Drivers are criticised for driving too fast down Seabreeze Rd after a mother duck is run over in front of her ducklings.
• In collaboration with the Flagstaff, David Kayrouz launches a 2006 community calendar featuring portraits of Devonport personalities.
• Jessica Peerless and Nancy Synnestvedt exhibit at the Flagstaff Gallery.
• Devonport Lingerie opens in the Arcade mall.
• New World owners John and Penny Ashton are presented with Devonport Rotary’s 2025 community award.
• Takapuna Rowing Club fundraises for a girls-only rowing boat.
• A two-bedroom unit on Victoria Rd is on the market for $379,000.
• Devonport rock band The Checks win best new artist at the New Zealand Rock Awards following the release of their single “What You Heard”.
• A crossing of Auckland Harbour in period dress will form part of the Devonport Methodist Church’s 150th anniversary celebrations on Labour Weekend.
• Devonport gardens (at Ngataringa Park) manager Linda Christianson is the Flagstaff interview subject. 0
Whether you are planning a garden refresh or a full renovation, let us work with you to define your
Choosing a connected, capable, and e xperienced team for our local board is vital as their decisions directly influence our daily lives more than national politics. The Devonpor t-Takapuna Local Board oversees matters such as parks, roads, footpaths, libraries, community facilities, and our local environment, while also representing community opinions to the Au c k l a n d C o u n c i l a n d o t h e r r e l eva n t bodies By voting in local elections, you contribute to shaping your community and making sure your voice is heard.
G e o r g e Wo o d a n d G a v i n B u s c h , c u r r e n t L o c a l B
together for the last three years, they have submitted over thir ty Notices of Motion and submitted several hundred jobs for council. They have worked hard for the community, pushing back against parking restrictions in Devonpor t, advocating for lower parking prices for fer r y user s and helping residents impacted by the 2023 stor ms.
The Lake Road small improvements that are coming ne xt year were a major win for the board and a lot of this was d o w n t o t h e l o c a l k n o w l e d g e G av i n b r o u g h t t o t h e d i s c u s s i o n s a l o n g s i d e George's under standing of the issues and concer ns residents have brought over the years.
Their dedication has motivated them to enlist four new committed candidates onto their Communities and Residents (C&R) ticket for this election. They are confident that their team will achieve superior outcomes across the community, e
challenging financial environment.
As a board, we will continue to suppor t the Devonpor t Community Centre and D E P O T, t h e w o r k o f R
r i n g Takarunga Hauraki, the Rose Centre and Theatre as well as the many community g roups around the peninsula. Working w
community
Upon election, we will suppor t our l
g maintain their facilities and collaborating better The clubs are crucial for attaining positive outcomes within our community
The Devonpor t BID and our local Ar ts also play an impor tant role, maintaining f
environment.
A t o p p
m i s t
continue to protect our beautiful and u n i q u e e n v i r o n m e n t We w i l l
p investing in and helping to preser ve its character, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making sure that our community stays a vibrant, healthy, and inspiring place to live for years to come.
Working with Healthy Waters, we will kee p working to improve stor mwater outflows to the sea and strengthen our n
g row
postponed. In many areas, we now require substantial investment. We will adopt a proactive and collaborative approach to i
optimal outcomes
D
allocated to the local board, e xper tise, networks, and financial literacy will be crucial to ensure that your rates are used w i s e ly, r at h e r t h a n b e i n g
d
personal vanity or e xcessively e xpensive projects.
The new team member s bring a wealth o
ticket. Mike Single, from Bayswater, a business director and “lifetime member” of Nor th Shore Rugby, and for merly a member of the Board of Trustees at T G S , c o m b i n e s l e a d e r s h i p w i t h a n alignment to local spor ts and community connections Kaumosi Opie, a passionate yo u t h a d vo c at e
for mer TGS student now studying at M
Schoonbee, a for mer forensic accountant now running her own business, will bring an analytical mind to the costings and oper ations of council projects Lastly, Neil Zent, from Forrest Hill, brings his e
approach to the team, helping to develop
challenges
To g e t h e r
, George Wood and Gavin Busch will lead a dynamic inclusive six-member board committed to engagement, listening, and making sensible, competent decisions.
Authorised by: David Hay, 73 Carr Rd, Mt Roskill, AKL
Local Body Elections
Ticket severs ties with ‘shocked’ board candidate
The A Fresh Approach ticket has drawn national scrutiny for cutting ties with its Devonport-Takapuna Local Board candidate Karin Horen (pictured) just two weeks before the close of polls.
The ticket acted three weeks after Horen’s proIsraeli and other postings were first questioned at an election meeting in Devonport, as reported in the Flagstaff on September 12.
On Friday 29 September, A Fresh Approach (AFA) removed Horen from its line-up, saying the move “acknowledged concerns raised by some members of the community”. The group said she had shared posts from “far-right” sources.
It also spoke of security concerns for team members and their families.
Her removal came the same day Auckland Council staff flagged the issue of protest risks picked up from council’s own online monitoring with AFA board members Mel Powell and Terence Harpur, ahead of an election meeting in Belmont on the Sunday.
While the meeting passed without incident, a range of vociferous views have been shared on social media.
Horen remains on the ballot paper, with AFA saying she is standing as an independent. It is now fielding a ticket of five rather than six candidates.
She told the paper it had been a “total shock” to be dropped. Horen said this was not discussed with her and she found out by message. She had not considered stepping aside. “I’m determined to keep going on what I started.”
Posts she had made were “the past”, and some had been removed.
Speaking at the Belmont meeting, she received a similar reception to other candidates in talking only about local topics, as occurred last week at the final candidates meeting held in Milford.
When candidates at the Rose Centre were asked to nominate their “super power”, she said hers was resilience. She wanted to bring this, empathy and action to the local board.
Horen told the paper afterwards that she was getting support, but had received “hateful” messages.
“As Jewish and Israeli, we get a lot of hate.”
A Fresh Approach candidate and current board deputy chair Terence Harpur said the group had become concerned Horen appeared to have shared “numerous posts from far-right sources”. It also fielded an overwhelming number of complaints about this. Having repeatedly tried to talk to her, it acted on a values mismatch, he said.
Harpur said any suggestion the group acted because Horen was Jewish – as claimed by the Free Speech Union – was incorrect.
Harpur said AFA stood for inclusivity and diversity.
Over the course of the campaign, he said the group had become concerned Horen appeared to have shared posts from far-right sources, including some on UK anti-immigration marches and others from Donald Trump and US activist Charlie Kirk. She had also promoted herself through Family First channels, a conservative organisation which he said held negative attitudes to women’s rights and the rainbow community.
Former National Party MP Simon O’Connor, who interviewed Horen mid-year on his podcast hosted by Family First, has now called for voters to boycott AFA candidates. Right-wing streaming website The Platform has also taken up the controversy, interviewing Horen at length last week. The Post newspaper last week wrote about geopolitical matters spilling into local elections.
The situation had been extremely stressful for a small team focused on local issues, Harpur told the Flagstaff.
Have your say
If you haven’t posted your local body election ballot by now, don’t – it’s too late for delivery by mail in time.
But you can still vote by dropping off your ballot papers in person by noon this Saturday 11 October. Devonport and Takapuna libraries, the Devonport ferry terminal and Woolworths stores, including at Hauraki Corner and Barrys Pt Rd, have ballot boxes, with other locations to be found on Auckland Council’s website.
By Monday 4 October, 18.2 per cent of people had voted in the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board area, slightly ahead of the citywide figure of 16.4 per cent.
In 2022, more than 3000 local people voted on the last day, with a final turnout of 43 per cent, well above the all-Auckland figure of 35.5 per cent. DTLB has 44,318 voters registered for the 2025 poll.
Rookie put on spot by Plunket
Newbie A Fresh Approach candidate Lewis Rowe suddenly found himself live on a national digital audio show being grilled by one of New Zealand’s most combative journalists over Karin Horen’s axing.
Last week Rowe took a cold call from Sean Plunket of The Platform and quite coolly asked if he was live on air. Yes, Plunket replied. The Shore’s local body election drama had gone national.
Plunket honed in on Horen’s Jewish background, which Rowe denied was the reason for her removal. It was due to “right wing” posts on immigration and women’s rights and alignment with Family First’s Simon O’Connor, Rowe said.
Security concerns had also emerged for candidates, he added.
Fresh Approach’s incumbent member Terence Harpur had largely handled the issue, Rowe said, adding he wished Horen all the best with the campaign, saying her “values do not align with ours”. Plunket ended the interview on a lighthearted note, asking Rowe, a Belmont second-hand car dealer, if he sold many Mercedes. “We do all right,” Rowe said, laughing.
During candidate selection, AFA had “done the best it could” with the information presented before nominations. “This isn’t like central government where parties have staff and research. It’s very disappointing the hurt this has caused for all parties involved.”
Horen said it was ridiculous to claim she was anti-immigration, as she is an immigrant herself, with New Zealand-born children. Asked by the Flagstaff if she regretted any posts she had made or shared, she said no, but said “the past is in the past”. She acknowledged having removed some posts.
What happens next?
• Election signs must be removed before midnight on the day before election day, Saturday 11 October 2025.
• Voting closes at noon on 11 October.
• Progress results will be revealed after 3pm on 11 October, reflecting ballots returned from 9 September to 10 October. This early count is expected to take in 80-90 per cent of all votes.
• Preliminary results will be released on Monday 13 October. This will take in the final votes cast on Saturday morning and bring the total count to around 95-98 per cent.
• Official results, including special votes, are declared on Friday 17 October.
Local board candidates left the best for last at the two final community election meetings, with clearer messaging and more confident presentations. This only added to the tough task for voters, many of whom seemed to have left their choices late.
With 20 candidates in the running for six Devonport-Takapuna Local Board seats, and a strong campaign showing from some independents, the two tickets rolled over from the outgoing board have faced some decent competition. Audience response at a meeting in Belmont on 29 September and another three days later in Milford showed a willingness to lend an ear to all-comers.
The reigning board ticket, A Fresh Approach (AFA), has been left with five candidates, after its messy split with Karin Horen (see opposite). Only three turned up to the final meetings, with two overseas, leaving incumbent member Terence Harpur and two newcomers to make its pitch for “data-led decision-making”. It helped that this year’s youngest candidate, Lewis Rowe, proved self-assured and quick-witted, though in the final meeting he got carried away with finger-jabbing. Running mate Kimberly Graham grew into her accessibility campaign with clear examples of where she would like local paths improved.
The Citizens and Ratepayers (C&R) team were eager to play up their full slate of six, right down to arriving at the Milford meeting
Local Body Elections
Pick me... Most local board candidates fronted up at a final election meeting on the peninsula, held at the Rose Centre on 28 September
in a team mini-bus, kitted out in matching blue T-shirts. George Wood and Gavin Busch, like Harpur, offer experience, with Wood in combative form, showing a keenness to take his elected service into his octogenarian years. The C&R ticket has good reach, with candidates drawn from Devonport to Forrest Hill, including new women in focused thinker Kamini Schoonbee and community centred local Kaumosi Opie.
Independent Trish Deans, a former board member from 2019-22, was able to draw on experience beyond that tumultuous term, speaking on community housing as well as heritage concerns. First-time independent and broadcaster Pete Cronshaw pushed plenty of buttons. Other newcomers made some good points as did repeat triers, but some will need to build their profiles for future tilts.
With differences often hard to discern in such a wide field – who’s going to say they’re not in favour of parks, good transport links and community facilities? – personal-
ities come into play. Garth Ellingham was engaging and low-key fellow independent James Rohloff made sensible contributions. Schoonbee, C&R’s Neil Zent and Graham all won points for appearing to have done their research. Mike Single was assertive.
• Listening in at the Rose Centre were the three most high-profile of the five candidates for two North Shore ward seats on Auckland Council. In their race, incumbent councillor Richard Hills faces two sharply contrasting challengers in measured John Gillon and animated Danielle Grant.
Gillon has declared himself the only candidate independent of Wellington and mayoral allegiances; Grant won endorsement from Mayor Brown; and Hills is standing on his record, including being able to work with Brown. Act’s Helena Roza, who is also running for the board, left early for a wedding, after her usual pitch for lower rates, less red tape and ending “the war” on cars.
– Janetta Mackay
THE NAVY COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
HAPPY
BIRTHDAY, RNZN
The Royal New Zealand Navy celebrates 84 years old this month.
In 1941, at the request of the New Zealand government, the King approved a proposal to make New Zealand’s Naval Forces the Royal New Zealand Navy. This was passed on October 1, making New Zealand ships “HMNZS”.
Notable events for the Royal New Zealand Navy this year include HMNZS Aotearoa undertaking a resupply mission to Antarctica and assisting in United Nations sanctions against North Korea. Frigate HMNZS Te Kaha undertook a six-month deployment which involved monitoring a Chinese Naval task group, drug interdiction in the North Indian Ocean, exercising with the United Kingdom Carrier Strike Group and warfare exercises at Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia.
HMNZS Canterbury was busy with four runs across the Tasman transporting troops and vehicles for Talisman Sabre, as well as transporting the Navy’s two uncrewed surface vessels to Fiji, where they undertook patrols of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone, all under remote control from Fiji and New Zealand.
HMNZS Taupo has been up and down the country training our future warfare officers, with some fisheries inspection thrown in.
This year the Government announced the intended purchase of new maritime helicopters to replace the aging Seasprite fleet.
Devonport Naval Base security reminder – for the safety of the community, please take care and remain outside the 60-metre perimeter of the Naval Base at all times. This includes when swimming, diving, kayaking, fishing and sailing.
Commodore Karl Woodhead, Deputy Chief of Navy, and Ordinary Marine Technician Leo Collier cut the birthday cake at Devonport Naval Base.
• New builds and renovations
• Rewires
• Home network cabling
• Wall-mount TVs
• Home theatre
LocaL to Devonport
Call Peter Cairns for your free quotation
Phone 021 858 243 or 445 4675
email allsafe.electrical@xtra.co.nz
Painting & Decorating Specialists
Serving Auckland for over 35 years Master Painter of the
Certifying Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer Call Matt
Landscaping Devonport
Garden design and construction
Whether you are planning a garden refresh or a full renovation, we can help with all the planning, construction and planting. Including decks, retaining, pergolas, paving and fencing. Everything outdoors!
Call Steve on 021 345 694 www.naturalgardens.co.nz
•
and
John Bisset LtD
Date set for TGS 100 years with plans for commemorative book underway
Takapuna Grammar School has officially set the date for its centenary celebrations, marking 100 years since the school first opened its doors in 1927. The centennial weekend will take place over Easter from Thursday 25 to Saturday 27 March 2027, and promises a vibrant programme of events for past students, staff, and the wider community.
From an initial roll of just 218 students the school now educates more than 2,200 students each year and has close to 20,000 alumni.
The celebrations will include a welcoming pōwhiri and Centennial Drinks, guided tours of the school, student performances, an Alumni Morning Tea, and a Reunion Gala Dinner.
There will also be historic displays including memorabilia and photos throughout the decades such as this photo of the 1958 sports teams heading away to Tauranga for their annual tournament.
To mark the centenary, a specially commissioned book will be published, chronicling the rich history of Takapuna
Year 8s get a taste of high school life
Just before the holidays, Takapuna Grammar School welcomed over 300 Year 8 students, from Belmont Intermediate School, for the annual “Day in the Life” experience.
The event gave BIS students a chance to explore what high school is really like: from conducting science experiments to creating their own art, and even lining up at the tuck shop for lunch.
TGS teachers ran engaging taster sessions across a range of subjects, including physical education, te reo Māori, Japanese, and social science, supported by 30 enthusiastic Year 9 student guides who helped the visiting students navigate the school.
Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive, with many BIS students saying they were now even more excited to start Year 9 next year.
This special tradition is made possible thanks to the close relationship between BIS and TGS. The physical proximity of the schools allows TGS to offer something truly unique -a real taste of high school life before it begins. The special transition day tradition has been running for at least 15 years.
Grammar School and the surrounding area.
More details and registration information will be released closer to the date. For now, save the dates and help spread the word.
To sign up for more announcements, email your name and contact details to: alumni@tgs.school.nz
TGS Rowing success at Australian Beach Sprint Nationals
Takapuna Grammar rowers, Keira Penny and Leonardo Bacchus, have made waves across the Tasman, delivering standout performances at the Australian Beach Sprint National Championships held in Sydney.
Competing in the Under-19 category, both athletes showcased their speed and skill in a range of solo and team events, earning multiple podium finishes against strong Australian competition.
Leonardo Bacchus impressed with three top-three finishes, including Bronze in the Men's U19 Solo, Bronze in the Mixed U19 Double, Silver in the Men's U19 Double, and 5th in the Mixed U19 Quad.
Keira Penny won Silver in the Mixed U19 Quad, 6th in the Women's U19 Solo, and 5th in the Mixed U19 Double.
Beach Sprints are short, high-intensity races that start with a 50-meter beach run to a boat, followed by a 250-meter slalom-style row around buoys, and then a final 50-meter sprint to the finish line on the beach.
The Australian Beach Sprint Championships are gaining prominence as beach sprint rowing prepares to debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The event in Sydney brought together the best young coastal rowers from across Australasia.
Test player among foreign recruits bolstering NSCC
North Shore Cricket Club’s premier men’s side has a slew of overseas players to bolster its ranks in the coming season as it tries to rebound back into the first division under new coach Ben Wall.
Top of the list is professional player Brandon Mavuta, a 28-year-old allrounder who has played test cricket for Zimbabwe as recently as in 2024 against Afghanistan. Harry Marner, a 19-year-old wicketkeeper from Ickenham in England, and Oliver (21) and Elliot (20) Griffiths from the New Brighton club in Lancashire also join Shore’s senior ranks.
Marner has a family connection to North Shore, with his father having played for the club as an overseas recruit in 1985.
All four arrive in New Zealand this week and Wall says Mavuta will be a definite starter in the premiers’ first match against Hibiscus Coast – a two-day contest beginning on 18 October at Victor Eaves Park in Ōrewa.
The other visiting players were in New Zealand for the experience and Shore would fit them into the premiers and reserves once they arrived, Wall said.
Wall’s goal was to get the side back into
the Auckland first division after it was relegated in 2024-25 in the final year under long-time coach Chris Reid.
“It’s a very young team with the most experienced player about 26, but we are very excited and exuberant to do the job,” Wall said.
With North Shore players Jock McKenzie and Simon Keene now established members of the Auckland Aces provincial side, “it’s unlikely they will be playing much for us this season,” Wall said. Shore had however retained most of its first division side from last year, losing only batsman Riley Mudford, and allrounder Jordan Gatley as it dropped to the second division.
Wall, who retired from premier cricket two years ago, said if the side could get the best of each individual, with the right “processes”, the results would follow.
The premiers and reserves had a combined squad of around 30 going into the season and Wall hoped to build the strength of both teams.
Coach Wall is a talented all-round sportsman, having played 100 games for both North Shore United football premiers and the cricket club premiers. At Westlake Boys High he played for the first XI and first XV rugby sides. He was part of the North Shore cricket team promoted to the first division in 2019. • Shore’s first home match at Devonport Domain is on 3 November, to coincide with the club’s 2025-26 season opening day.
Women’s prems will have stars back for most games
North Shore’s top women’s cricket side will be strengthened this season by having its contracted rep players available to play most matches.
Cricketing authorities have freed up top female players to their clubs in 202526. “They will be able to play in all but around two matches,” said North Shore women’s coach Johan Kirsten. That means
Jess Smith, Emily Handiside and Rishika Jaswal, who play for the Auckland Hearts, and Tash Wakelin and Eve Wolland, who are contracted to Northern Districts, will play more matches for the club this season.
“It does make our team stronger, but of course it makes other teams stronger as well,” Kirsten said.
North Shore will field a premier team and
a premier development women’s team. An inter-squad trial match for its 28 registered players will be held at Devonport Domain ahead of the season’s first match on 1 November.
Kirsten said the premier side was aiming to make the semi-finals or better in the 40over competition and improve on its 20242025 fifth placing in the T-20.
Behind the wickets... Ben Wall in his playing days for Shore
Brittenden’s branding wins support
I am impressed with the “Delightful Devonport” name submitted by Roger Brittenden (Flagstaff Notes, 12 September). With the addition of “Historic Maritime Village”, it explains exactly what it is.
Leighton Wynyard
Reach your Devonport Peninsula customers cost-effectively
Contact the Flagstaff for our rates and dates.
E sales@devonportflagstaff.co.nz W www.devonportflagstaff.co.nz
Candidate removal is cowardice
I write with deep concern and outrage following the removal of Karin Horen from the “A Fresh Approach” ticket in the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board election. The justification — that her presence was attracting hate mail and threats and creating a security risk — is deeply troubling.
The hate mail, threats, and vandalism she experienced were due to her Jewish/Israeli ethnicity, beliefs, and geopolitical opinions. The decision to remove her was made by current board members — including the sitting chair and her deputy, who knew exactly who Karin was when they welcomed her onto their ticket.
But when threats emerged, instead of standing with her, they removed her — punishing her for being the target of hate.
This is not just antisemitism. It’s cowardice. It’s bullying. And it’s a failure of leadership.
We teach our children to stand up to bullies and support those being targeted. Yet here, adults in positions of
Write to the Devonport Flagstaff
influence — community leaders — have done the opposite.
As a Jewish New Zealander, I have seen antisemitism rise sharply in recent years. But this incident is not just about the Jewish community. Would we accept this if the candidate were Māori? Pasifika? LGBTQ+? Asian? Or anyone removed because their identity or opinions attracted threats?
If we allow intimidation to dictate who can run for office, we open the door to discrimination in all its forms.
If our elected representatives can’t stand up to hate mail and threats, what happens when someone pressures them over a zoning decision, a playground proposal, or a development deal? If they fold in the face of hate, what else will they fold on?
This moment demands more than quiet disapproval. It demands a collective stand — to confront hate with courage, and say hate has no place in our elections, and no place in Devonport- Takapuna.
Talia Cohen Wolf, Bayswater
We welcome letters. Please limit to 300 words on local topics. Noms de plume or unnamed letters will not be printed. Email news@devonportflagstaff.co.nz or write to Letters, PO Box 32 275, Devonport.
COAST & COUNTRY
Cruise Ships Return, New Events Hub Launched on devonport.co.nz
By Tabitha Coleman, General Manager –Devonport Business Association
Devonport is about to get a whole lot busier The Crown Princess sailed into Auckland on 22 September, marking the start of the 2025/26 cruise season It’s the f irst of many ships that will bring thousands of visitors through our village over the coming months
Cruise days always bring an extra buzz – whether it’s people wandering our shops, enjoying a coffee, or taking in the views – and they’re a real boost for our businesses
We’ve also got a hive of events lined up November sees the return of Sculpture on the Shore, followed by our Christmas Festival in December and Sunsetter Festival in January.
You can f ind all the details in the new “Events” section on devonport co nz, which we’ve just added as a one-stop guide to what’s happening around the village. Over the next few months, we’ll be working on more updates to make the site a real destination hub for Devonport And don’t forget, it also has a full directory of local businesses
The DBA manages devonport co nz and the Devonport Village social media channels for our community, so if you’ve got an event coming up, some good news to share, or just need your business listing updated, please flick it through – we’d love to help spread the word
It’s shaping up to be a really lively season, and I’m looking forward to seeing Devonport buzzing with both locals and visitors
Vision of the future finds new home
A model of Devonport showing future design ideas has been put on display in the window of a vacant shop in Victoria Arcade.
Previously displayed in the library, the model (right) was created as part of an exercise for fourth-year architecture students from the University of Auckland, taught by Devonport architects Ken Davis and Julie Stout.
Many locals have already taken an interest in the ideas, which were presented in the Urban Adaptations – Te Hau Kapua Mō Apōpō / Devonport Tomorrow opening night and exhibition in July, which drew 911 visitors.
A panel discussion at the RSA attracted 95 attendees, while spin-off movies and documentaries drew another 180 people.
Davis said the arcade space could be opened by invitation.
He and Stout were now keen to take the project forward, after such strong interest was shown in the controversial topic of how
Devonport might develop.
“Our intention is to help develop a designand community-led Precinct Plan for the town centre, as an alternative to the blunt and limited quantitative planning controls of the current Auckland Unitary Plan, thereby ensuring quality outcomes that better reflect long-term needs and aspirations of the community.”
Birds, bees and more capture photographers’ attention
Nature as seen through the eyes of locals is the focus of an exhibition at Depot Artspace in Clarence St.
Takarunga Hauraki: Nature and Place is the result of a callout for community entries from which around 40 ecological photographs from 25 local residents were chosen to go on show until the end of October.
Peninsula environmental group Restoring Takarunga Hauraki is behind the initiative, asking residents to capture an aspect of the environment. The resulting subjects include birds and insects, seascapes and views of the maunga. “I’m super impressed and delighted with the range and quality,” said group co-ordinator Lance Cablk.
Entries were divided about equally between camera and phone shots. In prepara-
tion, the group held a workshop with Narrow Neck photographer Kathryn Nobbs offering tips and tricks.
It called on another resident, Sally Tagg, who is well-known for both magazine portrait work and her floral art photography, to help narrow down the entries. She worked alongside fellow assessors award-winning bird photographer Simon Runting and Gordon Brodie, a former RTH co-chair, art enthusiast and keen amateur photographer, to select the shots to be printed on art paper for display. The trio have each contributed to the exhibition with a print of their own.
Cablk said sales of the prints were by inquiry. He hopes the exhibition might be repeated again next year, perhaps with a narrowed-down theme.
Natural buzz... One of the photographs in Takarunga Hauraki’s exhibition at the Depot
OPEN DAYS RYMAN VILLAGE
FRIDAY 17 & SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER, 10AM - 2PM
Experience the award-winning lifestyle at a Ryman village. Join us at our open days and explore our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and see the premium amenities on offer. We look forward to seeing you. JULIE, DAWN & KEN Ryman Residents
PAY NO WEEKLY FEE FOR 12 MONTHS*
At Ryman pay no base weekly fee for 12 months* when you sign up to an independent apartment at William Sanders Village by 31 October 2025.
*Participating villages only, Ts & Cs apply.
WILLIAM SANDERS VILLAGE
7 Ngataringa Road, Devonport, 09 445 0909
rymanhealthcare.co.nz/open-days
North Shore United women win promotion to top grade
North Shore United’s top women's team has qualified to play in the Auckland competition’s first division after winning the second division this season.
The team’s success – winning the highly competitive grade on goal difference – was celebrated at the club prizegiving last month.
Proud coach Joe Hughes said the line-up included six high-school students, most of them from Takapuna Grammar School, two students from AUT, and senior players who had returned after a break from the game. “It was a new group which has come together to be successful.”
The aim was to keep the core of the group together and build on the hard work to date,
but also to attract more players to the club’s top two women’s teams.
Hughes said the possession-based first team looked to create plenty of scoring opportunities. This played out in it slotting 55 goals in the season, making it the division’s top-scoring side across its 13 wins, one draw and four losses.
The team's last six winning games made the difference, with 27 goals scored and just three conceded. “We work incredibly hard when we don’t have the ball to get it back.” said Hughes.
A crucial match was at home when the team beat then-table-topping Uni-Mount, 4-0. After another win in its last game at
Western Springs, Shore edged to the top, but had a nervous wait to see if Uni-Mount could go ahead the next weekend. It could only draw 0-0 against Waiheke, leaving Shore safe.
Hughes, who was in his first season coaching the club’s women after taking the men’s under-23s last year, said it was a whole-squad effort, with all players committed on the pitch and at training.
Having previously coached women's teams in the UK, he is keen to see female football flourish here. The foundations are there, he says, with the club's reserves team, which played in Division 3, also a mix of ages and with a great team ethic.
Going up... Back row (from left): Head coach Joe Hughes, players Samantha Heimer, Madeline Hill, Ella Hill, Niamh Shanahan, Leila Ison, Claudia Waite, Molly Tucker, Kate Barker, Naiya Powley and Laura Maclean. Front row: Tiriarangi Mastny, Eva Steckler, Brie Anderson, Melissa Everett, Julia Bennett (captain) and Anna Madsen.
Club’s growth in junior ranks showcased at prizegiving
Recognition... North Shore United Coaches Cup winner DJ Vosper (left), who coached five age-group teams after being injured himself, with three award winners from the 11th grade Inter Milan team: Ethan Barrett (Teammate award), Otto Rhodes (High Standards award) and Eli Little-Codling (Most Valuable Player)
More than 650 people celebrated the successes of the 2025 football season at North Shore United’s Allen Hill Stadium in Devonport over a weekend last month.
After a Saturday evening prizegiving for the seniors, youth and junior club football players gathered with family the next day to recognise age-group achievement. First Kicks players enjoyed fun activities laid on outdoors.
Club president Phil McGivern told the Flagstaff the club was in good heart with growing junior participation.
Its top women’s team has won promotion for next season to play in Auckland’s Division One (see story, opposite).
The top men’s team battled hard in the Lotto Northern Regional Football League Championship.
In an encouraging sign for the future, the club significantly topped the league’s mandated minutes for fielding under-20 players. The requirement was introduced for clubs to develop players.
Although all but one of 12 clubs met the required minutes, only half more than doubled the target, whereas Shore exceeded it six-fold.
“This is a testament to the coaching staff and their confidence in the players that we are working hard to develop as they come up through our young system,” said McGivern.
Club Awards: Sportsmanship Trophy, 13th Championship team; Most Promising Female Junior, Winter Dustin; Most Promising Male Junior, Henry Collier; Most Promising Female Youth, Elllie Cumberland; Most Promising Male Youth, Luka Simperingham; Outstanding Junior Female Goalkeeper, Delilah Riggall; Outstanding Youth Female Goalkeeper, Adabelle Rowe; Outstanding Junior Male Goalkeeper, Hosh de Koh and Kai Mesones; Outstanding Youth Male Goalkeeper, George Read; Young Coaches Cup, Raiha Jeory; Coaches Cup, DJ Vosper.
Seniors
Men’s 1st Team: Most Valuable Player, Joe Marshall; Players Player of the Year, Joe Moore. Women’s 1st Team: MVP, Julia Bennett; PP, Brie Anderson.
(Key: MVP for a team’s Most Valuable Player; HS for the High Standards award winner and TM for the Teammate award).
Boys
9th grade – Liverpool: MVP, Finn Mules; HS, Arlo Nordqvist-Wright; TM, Kata Wesley. Arsenal: MVP, Flynn Moreau; HS, Max Liu; TM, Bodhi Collett. Fulham: MVP, Luke Nielsen; HS, Patrick McGuigan; TM, Finn Neilsen. Tottenham: MVP, Luca Chambers; HS, George Creelman; TM, Taj Paterson. Man City: MVP, Sebastian Lawry; HS, Fergus Tait; TM, Corey Bates. 10th grade, Boca: MVP, Campbell Main; HS, Marcus Jun; TM, Dominic Glen. Millionarios: MVP, Leo Bodle; HS, Oliver Ostergaard; TM, Elliot Oxham. Palmeiras: MVP, Oliver Jacobs; HS, Blake Smith; TM, Otis Christiansen. River: MVP, Harper Makin; HS, Lachie Smith; TM, Kalanie. Santos: MVP, Tobin Burgess; HS, Louis Johnston; TM, Mack Insull. 11th grade, Inter Milan: MVP, Eli LittleCodling; HS, Otto Rhodes; TM, Ethan Barrett. Napoli: MVP, Finlay Robertson; HS, Vincent
Lawrence; TM, George Lynskey. Juventus: MVP, Theo Malcom; HS, Nico Lampen; TM, Louis Diaz Martin. Roma: MVP, Hugo Carran; HS, Cole Blincoe; TM, Noah Eiem. AC Milan: MVP, Cristobal Luzzi; HS, Mac Hoang; TM, Arlo Western. 12th grade, Real Madrid: MVP, Finn De Vries; HS, Archie White; TM, Noah Simons. Barcelona: MVP, Beau Casey; HS, Caleb Thumanth; TM, Benecio Mitchell-Pala. Atl Madrid: MVP, Woody Bentley; HS, Roman Garland; TM, Cooper Benson. Valencia: MVP, Elliot Chandler; HS, Frank Cockayne; TM, Tommy Sosa.
Youth
13th grade, Championship team: MVP, Harry Sloper; HS, Liam Carey; TM, Phoenix Mcquoid. Conference: MVP, Emir Faris; HS, Hunter Bates; TM, Thomas J. Blue: MVP, Dominic Reed; HS, Rocco Adam; TM, Charlie Gault. 14th grade, Championship: MVP, Marcus Dozzi; HS, Archie Fox; TM, Marcus Dozzi. Conference: MVP, Ayden Hong; HS, Emilio Fabres Bofill; TM, Connor Maddigan. 15th grade, Championship: MVP, Rowan Smith; HS, Samuel Cook; TM, Jules Jamieson. 17th grade, Championship: MVP, Felix Johnson; HS, Luka Simperingham; TM, Brad Perry.
October is here and with it warmer, sunnier weather
— if we’re lucky!
We’re excited to welcome you into our spaces to explore, discover, create, relax, read, connect and simply enjoy everything your library has to offer.
SUNDAY
October 19th 2pm-4pm
Fiona Murphy (holding a residency at the Michael King Centre) will speak about her book on deaf culture.
TUESDAY
October 21st 10am-11.30am
Nutrition for Seniors presented by Age Concern
E hoa ma, ina te ora o te tangata
My friends, this is the essence of life
Clever threads: TGS textile students
Around 20 textile technology students from Takapuna Grammar School have taken their creative skills from the classroom into a Devonport art gallery.
Working to a student-led theme of “Night Circus”, the Year 11 students designed and made garments to go on display at Satellite 2 gallery in Victoria Rd. Some spent holiday time back at school finishing the likes of colourful corsets and waistcoats in readiness for the exhibition, which runs from 9-19 October.
The project counts towards Level 1 assessments. Teacher Cait Farrow said the way in which the students experiment with materials and bring a creation to life from initial concept is looked at, along with design and sewing skills.
“It’s really exciting to get the kids working on something in a different environment than school.”
They had risen to the challenge and enjoyed having a theme. “They’re functioning garments that they could use and wear,” said Farrow, suggesting some might make an outing at Halloween.
Students the Flagstaff spoke to before the exhibition opened were intent on finishing their garments, but less sure when they might wear them.
Rosie Winslade says hers was inspired by the costume of a fortune teller and books she had read.
She agreed it was “exciting” to be working on something for public display.
Kenzie Elsayed’s turquoise bustier required intricate fittings on a mannequin as she worked to get slippery satin into shape. Sophie Hay’s black corset had a lace overlay and intricate ribboning up its back.
Farrow said the skills required to create these sorts of structured garments stretched students beyond Level 1 basics.
Boning, fusing, draping and moulding of materials had been required for different garments, while some featured beading and hand-stitching.
A variety of fabrics were used, and there
Work in progress... Kenzie Elsayed fits her turquoise satin bustier on a mannequin
was even one garment made of masking tape.
The finished pieces are now on display on mannequins and on the gallery wall, along with posters of the design concepts behind them.
This is the second year that TGS textile students have been invited into the gallery.
Owners Linda Blinkco and Lynn Lawton enjoy being a bridge between young talent and the community. Farrow said they had inspired students in a talk about creativity last term.
This also helped the students come up with atmospheric ideas on how to display their work to best advantage.
“It instils a sense of pride,” Farrow said.
take their inspired creations from concept to art gallery
Variations on a theme... Rosie Winslade (left) beside her circus-inspired costume and Elise Millen holding her partly constructed pink boned design. On the central mannequin is Sophia Hay’s corset, with feature laced back. The TGS students were among a group working during the holidays to prepare their exhibition items.
Level 1 Textile students –Takapuna Grammar School
Level 1 Textile students –Takapuna Grammar School
SHOWING NOW
Eleanor the Great (PG) 98min
Miss Violet (M) 109min
Tron: Ares (M) 119min
Went Up the Hill (R16) 100min
Holy Cow (M) 92min
The Smashing Machine (M) 123min
The Teacher Who Promised the Sea (M) 105min
One Battle After Another (R16) 162min
A Big Bold Beautiful Journey (M) 109min
The Bad Guys 2 (PG) 104min
Kangaroo (PG) 107min
SPECIAL EVENTS & NEW RELEASES
FIZZ - Live Comedy (E) 60min 10 Oct
Show Me Shorts Film Festival - The Sampler 10 Oct
Raybon Kan - Live Comedy 17 Oct
Show Me Shorts Film Festival - Whānau Friendly 19 Oct
9th to 19th October 2025
9th to 19th October 2025
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Shadow Cast - Returns! 24 Oct
For more info on films & events go to thevic.co.nz
Beautiful bungalow by the beaches
Located on one of Narrow Neck’s best streets, this classic bungalow has been masterfully renovated and expanded for family life, with functionality as well as beauty at the forefront of the design. It’s a ‘new old’ home and was essentially rebuilt in 2012, incorporating wall insulation and double glazing. The open plan lounge, dining and well-equipped kitchen is warmed by the gas fireplace in winter, while bifolds seamlessly connect to the large north facing deck and spa area. Mature landscaping makes it wonderfully private and a focus on low maintenance design makes it very easy care. This is a rare chance to enjoy the space, style, and unbeatable location this home offers.
bayleys.co.nz/1470783
bayleys.co.nz
4 2 3 2 Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 6 Nov 2025 28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna View Sun 12-12.30pm or by appointment Emma Lynskey 021 803 873 emma.lynskey@bayleys.co.nz
