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Takapuna, Milford, Castor Bay, Forrest Hill and Sunnynook VERED FORTNIGHTLY AN INDEPENDENT VOICE Issue 1 – 15 March 2019
Issue 1792019 – October 16,1 –2026 TNIGHTLY DELIVERED FORTNIGHTLY AN2019 INDEPENDENT VOICE AN INDEPENDENT VOICE Issue 1 – 15 March Issue 15 March
VERED FORTNIGHTLY
Issue 1 – 15 March 2019
Election candidates on parade... p2
AN INDEPENDENT VOICE
Hikoi camps out in Milford... p7
Halloween puts focus on Lake House ghosts... p22-23
Shellfish ban inadequate say North Shore critics Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Shane Jones’ announcement of stricter recreational shellfish harvesting rules has drawn a lukewarm response from North Shore council and local board members. The new rules, being implemented from 1 November, include closing an “intertidal zone” – from the mean high-water mark
down to where the water is 2m deep – for the collection of species including cat’s eyes, limpets, starfish, anemones, sponges and mussels. Outside this intertidal zone, up to 10 shellfish without a previously specified daily limit (including cat’s eyes, limpets, periwinkles, barnacles and starfish) can be
collected across the wider Auckland-Coromandel area. Up to 10 green-lipped mussels can be collected, or up to 50 blue and horse mussels. No limit has been set for anemones and sponges. Further changes to the wider Auckland Coromandel area include limits of one To page 7
Slam dunk: Westlake unbeaten in 2026
Hoop dreams come true… Westlake Boys are national basketball champions. Stories pages 4-5.
The Rangitoto Observer Page 2
October 16, 2026
Big crowd turns out for North Shore candidates meeting Candidates for the North Shore electorate – with the exception of sitting National MP and cabinet minister Simon Watts – were brought together for the first time at a packed Devonport Community House on 7 October. An audience of more than 120 heard from National’s Northcote MP Dan Bidois that Climate Change Minister Watts was otherwise engaged, at the Pacific pre-COP31 conference in Fiji from 5-8 October. Bidois was National’s representative throughout the evening. When candidates were asked how they would handle the needs of the electorate clashing with their party’s policies, Bidois brought up Watts’ support for a law change to allow redevelopment of the heritage Takapuna Boating Club building in Bayswater. He brushed off calls of “Fast Track” from the audience, referring to the a proposed fast-track development in Devonport on which Watts has been largely silent. Opportunity candidate Holly Knill claimed Watts’ absence was a “familiar theme”, citing the chants of “Where is Simon?” at a Fast Track protest in Devonport in July. Labour candidate Sam Collins said, “The Fast Track law is broken. We would fix it.” On the cost of living, Act candidate Karen Chhour said she was against the government “interfering” in private businesses. “Where does it stop?” she asked. Green candidate Josh Jacobsen said the current government was prioritising the “welfare of big businesses over the welfare of people”, and said the Greens’ tax plan would give “almost everyone more in their back pocket”. Bidois talked of National’s rates-capping legislation, while Knill said Opportunity would “give the Commerce Commission some teeth”. She also said the solution to guaranteeing
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True colours... (from left) Northcote MP Dan Bidois, and North Shore candidates Josh Jacobsen (Green), Holly Knill (Opportunity), Sam Collins (Labour) and Karen Chhour (Act) funding for arts and community groups was “pay equity still exists”, which was disputed a cross-party commitment. by members of the audience. Jacobsen said the country was losing its On the health system, Jacobsen said he “third spaces”, places outside of work and had personally been turned away from North home where members of the community can Shore Hospital and referred to Shore Care interact with one another. “No one wants twice due to long wait times. He said the the first time meeting your neighbour to be government was “defunding our healthcare them pulling you out of a flooded house.” system”. Bidois said a North Shore MP had the Bidois reminded attendees that 25 new job of “convincing everyone else that there nurses had been hired at North Shore is need on the North Shore”, to ensure the Hospital. area received its “fair share” of taxes paid. He said “ED wait times are way down”, Chhour said decisions about funding and blamed recent spikes on Covid and a should be transparent and based on benefit “terrible season of the flu”. to the community. Many of the issues threatDevonport-Takapuna Local Board deputy ening organisations like the Community chair Scott Macarthur questioned candidates House related to Auckland Council’s own on their stance regarding a review of the Fairer Funding review process. Super City. He said local boards had “no Collins said Labour would reverse en- protection” or certainty in terms of funding. rolment law changes, restoring the right to “The legislation needs a lot of work.” enrol up to election day. Bidois said Watts and Prime Minister When the candidates were asked which Chris Luxon might have more policies to parties would reinstate pay equity for low- announce over the coming weeks. paid women workers, Knill answered for All the candidates supported a four-year Opportunity with a simple, “Yes.” term, though Collins and Jacobsen clarified Labour and the Greens were in agree- that their agreement was a personal preferment, but Act and National both claimed ence rather than a party endorsement.
October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto Observer Page 3
Milford-made bangers win People’s Choice award
Taste of success... Well Hung owner Todd Treadwell (right) and manager Jamie Beals with their prize-winning sausages Milford butchery Well Hung’s chicken, brie had experienced an influx of customers Category in the same competition in 2020. and cranberry sausage has won the People’s wanting to try the award-winning combiWhen plums were available again, Well Choice Award in the Great NZ Sausage nation. Hung’s customers voted to keep the cranCompetition. He recommended cooking the sausage berry version of the sausage. It is currently The People’s Choice is chosen from for 10 minutes in an air-fryer at 180 de- the butchery’s second most popular sauthe top six sausage entries, which are grees, or frying them at a lower heat with sage, behind plain pork. determined from a total of 900 entries constant turning. Well Hung has also won a bronze medal nationwide. Well Hung has been selling the winning in the Gourmet Beef Category for its beef, Owner Todd Treadwell said the first-time sausages since 2023, when the butchery blue cheese and pear sausage. Last year it People’s Choice win came after many years needed an emergency replacement for won a gold medal in the Traditional Cateof entering the competition. “We are all plums after an orchard in Napier was wiped gory for its pork and leek sausage. absolutely over the moon.” out in Cyclone Gabrielle. The Great NZ Sausage Competition Following the win, and a TV appearance The chicken, brie and plum sausage awards ceremony was being held this week on Seven Sharp, Treadwell said the store won a silver medal in the Gourmet Poultry at Eden Park.
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October 16, 2026
Westlake Boys win national basketball championship
The Westlake Boys High School basketball team has had its most successful year in two decades going 38 games undefeated in 2026 and winning both the Auckland and national secondary school championships. The last time Westlake won the national secondary school title was in 2013. Westlake’s five defeats of archrivals Auckland Grammar in 2026, including in the Auckland and national finals, summed up its dominance. Twenty-four teams contested the national champs in Palmerston North in late September/early October, with Westlake beating St Andrews (Christchurch) 109-72 in the quarter finals, Napier Boys’ 95-55 in the semis, and Auckland Grammar 90-82 in the final. Two players – Daley Pohio and Harper Wilson – were named in the All-Star tournament team, with Wilson also named the
competition’s most valuable player. The championship was also a milestone for coach Karl Noyer, who has been building the team over his past four years as coach. In 2005 and 2006, future Tall Black Tom Abercrombie starred in a Westlake Boys team which went undefeated for two seasons, winning the national titles in both years. Westlake has 450 students playing basketball out of a roll of 2800. • The winning 2026 Westlake team: Daley Pohio, Harper Wilson, Jack Pauga, Jayziah Gerrard, Theo Tolks-Robinson, Lincoln Wilson, Malakhai Jewell-Joiner, Matthew Moors, Mitchell Thorpe, Nicholas Bamford, Noah Duncan and Zac Guy. Head coach: Karl Noyer; assistant coaches: Roger Lewis, Zac Easthope and Corey Marshall; manager: Katrina Nuttall.
Happy families…the winning Westlake team with supporters, including former All Black Jeff Wilson with flag at left and former Silver Ferns captain Adine Wilson with the couple’s sons, Harper (with net around neck) and Lincoln (behind); below, coach Karl Noyer and Harper Wilson back at Westlake last week
CHOCOLATE & PEANUT This month’s recipe is from Ashia Ismail-Singer, Sales BUTTER SKILLET BROWNIE consultant & cookbook author from Bayleys Takapuna. SERVES 6 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a cast-iron skillet, 200g butter ideally about 24cm in diameter, with a little of the 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon butter. In a large bowl placed over a simmering 200g dark chocolate saucepan of water, melt the rest of the butter and the pinch of salt chocolate until smooth. 200g brown sugar Remove from the heat and add the sugar and the eggs, one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Stir 3/4 cup peanut butter in the flour, cocoa, baking powder, cinnamon and salt 3 eggs to combine, but don’t overmix. Pour the batter into chocolate drops & roasted peanuts the skillet and use a spatula to spread it out evenly 100g flour, sifted to the sides. Dollop spoonfuls of peanut butter onto the batter and use a knife to swirl it through. Bake to garnish (optional) for about 20–22 minutes or until it’s set around the 50g cocoa edges and has a slightly fudgy centre. Decorate with cream or ice cream to serve chocolate drops while still hot and scatter the nuts 1/4 teaspoon baking powder over if using. Serve warm with ice cream.
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October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto Observer Page 5
Sporting genes help propel teen star to dual success Westlake Boys High School student Harper Wilson has had a stellar year – making the top-four national rugby finals with the school’s first XV, then winning a national schools basketball title. In one crazy week in August, Harper, the school’s head boy, was in Westlake teams which won Auckland regional titles in both rugby and basketball. At the recent national secondary schools basketball tournament, point guard Harper was named the competition’s most valuable player. He averaged around 20 points per game during the tournament. Harper (18) has great genes for sport. Father Jeff was a double All Black, representing New Zealand in both rugby and cricket. Mother Adine captained the Silver Ferns netball side and won a Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2006. As a young boy, Harper thought he would be a rugby player but over the years basketball has taken hold as well. He has been in Westlake’s top basketball team for four years. His younger brother Lincoln was also in the team this year. Both parents were on hand to watch the basketball win, Harper said, much to their delight as they missed out on national secondary team competitions. “Dad was carrying the big Westlake flag,” Harper said. “Mum pointed out they both went to small schools, which had no chance of going to the nationals.” Adine went to Hāwera High School in Taranaki and Jeff to James Cargill High in Invercargill. Harper, who also plays for the North Harbour under-20 team, is heading to university in 2027, most likely the University of Auckland, to begin an engineering degree. However he is also investigating the possibity of a US college scholarship, under which
he could study and also play basketball. At 191cm Harper is comparatively short for a top pro basketballer, but then NBA star Stephen Curry is just 188cm. Asked if a career with the NZ Breakers
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The Rangitoto Observer Page 6
October 16, 2026
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The Rangitoto Observer Page 7
Ban falls short of changes sought by local board, council From page 1 octopus, five sea cucumbers, 50 shrimps or prawns and 10 squid. The decision follows public consultation from earlier this year, when four options were submitted to Auckland Council by Fisheries New Zealand. The Devonport-Takapuna Local Board supported a complete ban on shellfish harvesting, while the council wanted kina and oysters excluded from a ban. Shore ward councillor John Gillon said the announcement fell short of the advice that both the council and DTLB submitted. “It’s a massive step forward, but nowhere near enough,” he said.
He said around 90 per cent of the public who submitted on the issue supported the complete ban. Devonport-Takapuna Local Board member Terence Harpur said it was a “great day for protecting the environment,” although “of course it would be nice to have stricter controls”. Last year, the DTLB supported an application from Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust to Fisheries New Zealand for a twoyear temporary closure of the coastline along Rodney, Hibiscus Coast and East Coast Bays. Jones said the Kiwi tradition of “fossicking” was being “exploited by a selfish few who are taking far too much kaimoana”. Under-secretary Jenny Marcroft said
the government was working to set up an infringement regime before the election, so Fishery officers could hand out instant fines. Director of fisheries compliance Steve Ham said officers would provide education in the first instance of a rule breach. He encouraged members of the public who see offenders to call the poacher line (0800 476 224). He said not to expect an instant change in behaviour from 1 November. “This is a generational change.” After the announcement, critics said fines were still only enforceable for species that were named within the rules. Charles Palmer, a member of Restoring Takuranga Hauraki, said the government had adopted the “weakest” option available.
Hikoi freedom campers stay over at Milford Reserve Freedom campers in the Milford Reserve carpark drew complaints from the public and caught the attention of council officials and police last Friday. The campers were part of “Hikoi for Remedy”, a convoy travelling from Wellington to Waitangi. Amongst the half a dozen vehicles were some with licence plates removed or painted over. Auckland Council compliance manager Adrian Wilson said the community safety team engaged with group members after complaints from the public. “The group is part of a hikoi walking along the highway and is being monitored by police as it makes its way to Waitangi.” The group is understood to have moved on last weekend. Member Rawinia Horomia-Te Rito said “about 20” were in the
group. She alone was at the reserve on Friday while others supported a member in court who was arrested for walking on the highway. Multiple Te Kara – United Tribes of New Zealand – flags were flying at the campsite, where Horomia-Te Rito said on Friday the group had already been for three days. She had first come in contact with members of the group at the Occupation at Parliament in February 2022. On the current hikoi, she said, “we’ve stopped a lot of places, been talking to people to see if they have a remedy for our future.” She said the group was visited by Māori liaison police officers and “five council people” on Thursday. Police told the Observer they were engaging with the group and monitoring them.
At 73: “You “You Know KnowWhen WhenYou’ve You’veSlept” Slept” At 73:
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The Rangitoto Observer Page 8
PUBLIC NOTICE Schnauer & Co Lawyers Takapuna
Schnauer & Co Lawyers of 1 Shea Terrace, Takapuna, closed its doors at lunchtime on Friday 11 September 2026, after many years looking after clients on the North Shore. Muir + Partners has taken over the firm’s client files, documents and deeds, including wills. This also covers documents held for clients of the former practices of Greg Dunning and Andrew Stokes, which were previously incorporated into Schnauer & Co. Jo-Anne Thomas has joined Muir + Partners and continues to act on many Schnauer & Co matters. The team at Muir + Partners look forward to meeting Schnauer & Co’s clients and looking after their legal affairs from here. Our Takapuna office is at road level and easy to get to, with secure underground parking and lift access from the car park up to us. If Schnauer & Co held files, documents or deeds for you, or you have a matter underway, please contact us: Muir + Partners 129 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna (09) 489-9029 | josh@muirpartners.co.nz www.muirpartners.co.nz The Schnauer & Co phone numbers and email addresses are being redirected to Muir + Partners.
October 16, 2026
October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto Observer Page 9
The Rangitoto Observer Page 10
Sam Collins for North Shore
Get in touch sam.collins@labour.org.nz @samcollinsnz Authorised by Rob Salmond, 2 Gilmer Terrace, Wellington.
October 16, 2026
October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto Observer Page 11
WGHS students ready to develop award-winning idea
Team effort... (from left) Trisha Kansara, Sarah Attraqchi, Arpitha Shane and Amy Malcolm pictured last year with their winning project Four Westlake Girls High School students who devised a workshop A go-bag activity was included in the workshop, so participants and app to help teach fellow teenagers about disaster preparation could learn about what to pack for an emergency. A resource sheet have gained support from Neighbourhood Support to take the and poster provided information about what to do if a natural disproject further. aster strikes. Trisha Kansara, Sarah Attraqchi, Arpitha Shane and Amy Malcolm’s The girls also created a Minecraft server with a simulated volcano idea won the Overall Community Impact Award Westlake’s STEAM eruption, so teenagers could test out the evacuation steps they’d (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) expo last year. learned to survive a natural disaster within the game. The Year 11 students, who were just Year 10 when they began North Shore Neighbourhood Support coordinator Selena Wong work on their “Bolt” project, aimed to produce a workshop for young said it was “incredible” to see young people take initiative. people with a focus on natural-disater readiness and safety. “What makes the BOLT project so special is that it is youth-led Amy said the focus on teenagers came from seeing a gap in the and designed around what actually works for young people, giving market. “There’s resources aimed at adults and for kids, but nothing them the opportunity to shape solutions for themselves and their for those in between.” peers.” She said the school project is a “fantastic starting point”. The girls started creating a lesson plan, tools and resources. Sarah “We are now exploring what BOLT could become and how we said this included an app which listed and mapped out community can build on this initial idea to reach more young people.” hubs and hospitals. Along with other features, it had an interactive Wong said the team would love to hear from anyone interested quiz. in supporting the project. Derm osc op ic
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The Rangitoto Observer Page 12
October 16, 2026
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Kia ora, I’m Holly Knill. I’m the North Shore candidate for the Opportunity Party.
I believe we should expect better. Better planning that delivers affordable homes. Better infrastructure that supports people with the transport links, schools, healthcare and public spaces they need to live well.
Along with my husband and daughter, I’m proud to call the North Shore home, and I’d be honoured to represent our community in Parliament. The North Shore represents the future of New Zealand. It’s diverse and ambitious.
Better politics - where our leaders plan for long-term and act with integrity.
But right now, New Zealand faces big challenges.
This election, you have the right to expect better.
• Living costs are rising. • Our economy is stalling. • Nature is being ignored. Meanwhile, politics swings between shortterm fixes and shouting matches while communities like ours are left behind.
Party Vote Opportunity for real change and Electorate vote Holly Knill if you want to see a courageous champion for the North Shore in Wellington. Together, we can make history.
Party Vote Opportunity opportunity.org.nz Authorised by H. Cargo secretary@opportunity.org.nz
October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto Observer Page 13
Kids flock to Takapuna Library holiday sessions
The children’s section of Takapuna Library was overflowing on Friday last week with families creating rainbow kaleidoscopes. The event was the grand finale of the library’s school holiday activities. Around 55 children attended a “flower-fairy” craft session on 7 November (see photos, pages 14-15), which proved so popular a second session was needed. “Many children made fairies as gifts for family members, including one who made two extras to gift to her grandparents back home in Scotland,” librarian James Dunning said. Other sessions gave the chance to make fire-breathing dragons, dream catchers and worry dolls. Popcorn and movies were offered on Sundays. Fun at the library... Mabel, William and mum Kirsten Fowler; Emmett, Elliott and dad Cameron Schauer; Sihoon Baec and Lochlain Wilde
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OPEN DAYS 22 & 23 OCTOBER
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Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or thinking about your next move, October is the perfect time to visit. Join us for our Moving On talk with Katie Fitzpatrick or come along to one of our Open Days to experience the community, meet the team and take a look around.
Parklane Open Days Thursday 22 & Friday 23 October Tours: 10.15am | 11.30am | 12.45pm
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The Rangitoto Observer Page 14
October 16, 2026
‘Flower fairies’ prove a holiday drawcard at library
Flower power... Luna Kim (5) and father Ji Yong Kim, and Mia (5) and mother Angela Pervan from Takapuna, were among those who enjoyed a “flower fairy” craft session at Takapuna Library during the school holidays
Sir Roger understanding about Glide Time season’s abrupt end Veteran playwright Sir Roger Hall was disappointed but understanding about Phoenix Theatre’s decision to cancel the final three performances of its production of Hall’s breakthrough 1970s work Glide Time. Phoenix Theatre announced in a social media post on 29 September that a situation had arisen requiring members of their company to step away. “This wasn’t an easy call, but giving our people the space they need is at the core of our kaupapa/principles,” the post said. The play was staged to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its first
showing in Wellington. That season was a huge success and went on to inspire the television show Gliding On. The Phoenix production had also won a positive response from audiences. Hall, who is the patron of the PumpHouse Theatre in Takapuna where it was being performed, told the Observer he was “of course” disappointed. “But the personal circumstances of one of the actors were such that no one in the company would have wanted to continue,” he said Ticket holders were told they would receive a full refund.
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Crafty... Safiyya (5) and Aswa (7) Salman and mother Tanzeela Riaz; and Mabel and Kirsten Fowler
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October 16, 2026
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October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto Observer Page 17
International flavours dished out at Milford Baptist Milford Baptist Church celebrated its congregation’s cultural diversity, with more than 15 international dishes provided for a shared cultural lunch. Pastor Bruce Bradburn said the idea for the lunch came after realising the church’s small congregation contained people from more than 20 countries. Dishes from Serbia, Nepal, Scotland, Russia, China, South Africa, Indonesia, India and Britain were included in the feast. “We had a lot of food – people really got on board. We were excited to celebrate our diversity,” Bradburn said. Members also shared information about the dishes they provided, and the church held a trivia quiz on the various countries. “It was nice getting to celebrate our cultures, and the thing that unites us is our faith in God, that’s what brings us together,” Bradburn said.
Looking forward to lunch... Congregation members await their shared lunch at Milford Baptist Church, which has people from more than 20 countries
Footpath pavers damaged during stormwater upgrade Milford businesses are asking that pavers be returned to the footpath outside 218 Kitchener Rd, across the road from New World, after a pipe upgrade led to their replacement with “a big slab of concrete”. The council is upgrading a stormwater pipe along the road, using trenchless technology to install a new liner inside the culvert. Flood projects delivery manager Ian Wallace said during the inflation of the lining near 218 Kitchener Rd, “a weakened section of the ageing culvert allowed pressurised air to escape beneath the footpath, which unfortunately damaged the footpath and pavers.” He said concrete was used as a temporary measure to quickly reopen the footpath. Milford Business Association manager Murray Hill said the locals want the pavers returned. He has sent a letter to the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board which board member George Wood has forwarded to council staff. In the letter, Hill said the pavers “must be relaid to retain the overall
aesthetic of the footpaths in our main street”. “It’s just another bungle – ratepayer money spent on re-doing something that should have been done properly in the first place,” Hill said. The business association was also frustrated about a lack of communication from the contractors and council regarding the works. Hill said the works took place overnight, but during the day road cones would be left blocking parking spaces, despite no workers being in the area. He organised someone to move the cones so customers could park near businesses. Wallace said the pavers will be reinstated “once the project is completed”. “We are working with the contractor to confirm a timeline for replacement and once confirmed will notify affected property owners, tenants and businesses and work with them to manage any access requirements.”
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October 16, 2026
Cricket champions recruit carefully for coming season Takapuna Cricket Club’s premier men’s side – the defending Auckland one- and two-day champions, start the 2026/27 season with a number of key signings and only one major defection. Signings include: • Siddesh Dixit from Cornwall Cricket Club, top order bat and quality left-arm spin bowler. who was contracted with Auckland last season. • Max O’Dowd from Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club, a Dutch international opening batsman returning to his home club. • Michael Mitchell from Lake Taupo Cricket Club, where he captained its prem team. • Ben Christiansen from Kaipara Cricket Club, returning after a few years up north for work. • Oscar Strickland from Blackpool CC (UK). On his OE and working at Westlake Boys High School. A major loss for the season is top batsman William O’Donnell, who has chosen to stay in the UK this summer, with the aim of playing county cricket and potentially pushing for a place with the Scottish team. Thomas Raybould has also left Takapuna, moving to the North Shore Cricket Club. Jordan Sussex has retained his contract with Auckland which means he will have limited game time for Takapuna. In another major change, Toby Stroobant has taken over captaincy of the premiers after six years of leadership by Matt Jones. “I’ve handed over the baton,” Jones said. “The time was right to look to the future of our club.” He will, however, continue to play for the premiers, for whom he is a leading wicket taker. “We’ve got the same goal as always – start the season well and make a push for all three trophies. “We again have plenty of strength and depth this season so it
Still spinning... Matt Jones has stood down from the captaincy but will remain a key part of the attack should be an enjoyable one if the boys work hard and keep to our usual high standards,” Jones said. • Two players in Takapuna’s premier squad have been selected for the NZ Over 40’s World Cup this month. Dewald Strydom and Greg Johnson will travel to Guyana, a South American country which is part of the Caribbean region, for the tournament. • Takapuna premiers’ first game of the season is this Saturday 11 October, a 50-over match against East Coast Bays away at Windsor Park starting at 11am.
Simon Watts For
North Shore
Get in touch simon.watts@national.org.nz national.org.nz/team/simonwatts SimonWattsMP Authorised by S Watts, simon.watts@national.org.nz
MILFORD SHOPS NEWS
October 16, 2026
The Rangitoto bserver Page 19 Your monthly update fromOMurray Hill, Manager of Milford Business Association.
MILFORD SHOPS NEWS
Your monthly update from Murray Hill, Manager of Milford Business Association.
Your monthly update from Your Murraymonthly Hill, update from Murray Hill, Manager of Milford Manager Business Association. of Milford Business Association.
Long-time service businesses in Mil
sinesses in Milford lford ilford
ong-time service businesses Milford Long-time service businesses ininMilford Yachting Action in Milford during October and November
This month we welcome Cam and Shasta Smith, who have taken over New World in Milford. As I was writing thiswe column, I realised this celebrates over month welcome Cam and Shasta Smith, who have monthThis we welcome Cam and Shasta Smith, 70 years of a Foodstuffs owner-operator business in taken over New World in Milford. As I was writing this column, This month the focus is on the major World Championship neighbourhood. Milford was severely impacted by the last emergency have taken over New World in Milford. As I was I realised this celebrates over 70 years of a Foodstuffs ownerMilford and started thinking about others that have sailing event coming to our shores in late October and early - the major floods of the Wairau Estuary. ng this column, I realised this celebrates over Therapists Mandy Crawford operator business in Milford and started thinking about others November. Milford is becoming a bit of adoing yachting mecca as we We now have an Emergency Hub at the Milford Cruising Club, been here for some time. So, I’m a feature on ears of a Foodstuffs owner-operator business in and Matt Wain Milford Club on the reserve and on which is kitted out with all items needed in any emergency. This will that have havethe been hereCruising for some time. So,beachfront I’m doing a feature Unichem Milford as well, because this business, in rd and started thinking about others that have Yachting New Zealand also recently if you need assistance during any type Unichem Milford as well,hasbecause this relocated business,itsinnational different be your first point of contact Established in Milford guises, must have serving for some time. So, I’m doing a been feature on headquarters to premises in Inga Road. This facilityour also Milford includes of emergency. We understand there could be circumstances when y,here different guises, must have been serving our Milford community for at their high-performance centre. this emergency hub is inaccessible so we are currently working on for 18 years hem Milford as well, because this business, in community for at least 50 years. least 50 years.
dy guises, must have been serving our Milford rent Winner of Ski Tūroa promotion munity forCongratulations at least 50 years. to Bridget Agnew who won this fantastic promotion!
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alternative site as a backup hub.
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Milford Emergency Readiness News primaryGroup healthcare Thanks also to the businesses involved – Mercedes-Benz North The Milford Business Association has a database of around 10,000 locals (like of GPs Shore, Pure Tūroa, Powderhorn Chateau, The Roof Rack Shop and and this together with thepractitioners substantial databases the Milford Cruising Milford Ballistics Wake & Snow. ClubUnichem and the Milford Residents Association will be your sources of and pharmacists), and are information abouttook emergency readiness in Milford. Ifaround you are not Shameel over this business a already trained to provide evidenceUnichem Milford Unichem Milford Milford – Top Sales Town Centre on the Shore on the Milford Shops newsletter, go to milfordshops.co.nz and sign up in year ago and is another young entrepreneur over this business around a page based diagnosis, treatment Shameel over this business around a year ago andrehab is another A big thanks to all our loyal Shameel customers tookthe panel attook the bottom of the home – ‘Subscribe toand Newsletter’. to come to Milford. More than just who once again supported us during Similarly you young can sign entrepreneur up themusculoskeletal Milford Residents Association young entrepreneur to come to Milford. More than just not prescriptions, year agotheand is another foron all issues, just bones! month of August as we were, again,to Milford. Newsletter and also on The Milford Cruising Club newsletter. Unichem Milford Pharmacy offers a range of convenient health prescriptions, Unichem Milford Pharmacy toyet come More than just the Top Sales Town Centre on the Shore. More information onACC whataccredited to do in an emergency canfamily, be found on - health no referral needed, and Souther services to a help you look after yourself and your right here offers range of convenient services prescriptions, the Unichem Milford Pharmacy Checkout new stores, Bed Bath & Table website: aucklandemergencymanagement.govt.nz in Milford. Easy Claim providers a range ofWe convenient towant helpto you look services after yourself andcommunity your plus Stella and Emma in the offers mall – and keephealth Milford connected in the next • Redeem your Livingfor Rewards points Toco Açaí & Froyo in the Main Street you look emergency, soright look out our communications. to help after yourself and your family, here in joint Milford. • Medication reviews and expert pharmacist advice opposite New World. moved topoints new premises above Shore family, right here ina great Milford. Have• October. Redeem yourRecently Living Rewards
• Free parking behindpoints the pharmacy • Redeem your Living Rewards entrance 107 Kitchener Rd • vitalbody.co
• Hill, Medication reviews and expert pharmacist advice Milford Emergency Readiness Group Murray Manager, Milford Business Association •reviews Free delivery within Milford • have Medicationmanager@milfordshops.co.nz and expert pharmacist advice I'm pleased to advise the Milford community that we now • 021 950 463pharmacy • milfordshops.co.nz • Free parking behind the a group up and running for when an emergency occurs •in our Free parking behind the pharmacy • Vaccinations � milfordshops � milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV • Free delivery within Milford
• Free delivery withinpacking Milford • Blister and prescription services • Vaccinations • Vaccinations Pop in and chat with the friendly team at 174A Kitchener Road, in the World Milford • ofBlister packing and prescription services New World Milford WorldNew Milford • Blister packing prescription heartand Milford village,services next to House of Travel, with convenient free Meet thenew new faces behind New World Popthe in and chat with the friendly 174A Kitchener parking behind the pharmacy, or give them ateam call onat 09settle 489 4107 to aof Meet the faces behind New WorldClub Milford! We’re excited the new faces behind New World Milford! We’re Milford! Pop inWe’re andtochat with friendly team 174A Kitchener Road, in the heart As the at cooler weather starts to in, it's good Milford Milford Cruising Club Cruising out more. welcome Cam and Shasta as new owneroperators New World excited to welcome Cam and Shasta the of new ownerMilford village, next to House Travel, with ed to welcome Cam Shasta as the new ownerMilford village,find next to House ofcorner. Travel, with convenient free parking behind the • • Everyone Everyone isand welcome tothe attend! is welcome Locals areaswelcome to - you attend! Locals are welcome -healthy you To help youof stay andconvenient protected, wef tic Milford. A local two busy boys, Cam and are proud don't don't need a boatwith need toAjoin us! a boat toShasta join us! ators of New World Milford. local family with two pharmacy, or givepharmacy, them a callor ongive 09 489 4107 to find out489 more.4107 to find ou operators of family New World Milford. A local family with two them a call on 09 ,nds, to •be• taking thenights reinsquiz of a store that has been locally family-owned quiz Free every Thursday nights from 7.30pm every Thursday from 7.30pm 2026 Influenza ('Flu) Vaccine - Availabl boys, busy CamFree and Shasta proud to be taking theto be taking boys, Camare and Shasta are proud the ge, since 1964, continuing a long-standing legacy here in Milford. • • Dinner Dinner on Thursday and onFriday Thursday nights. Family-friendly and Friday nights. Family-friendly The 2026 flu vaccine has arrived early at Unichem Milford Phar of a store that has been locally family-owned since reins of athe store that hashis been locally family-owned ord atmosphere. atmosphere. For Cam, move brings supermarket journey full circle.since He make your vaccination quick and stress-free. All brands availab continuing a long-standing legacy here in Milford. • • Friday 15 May,in7pm 15 -industry Serene May, Bolton 7pm singing Serene 1964, continuing athelong-standing legacy here inassistant, Milford.Bolton singing started his Friday career in 2009 as a seafood Who can get the flu vaccine for free? Everyone 65 years old an am, the brings his supermarket journey full brunch. •move • Sunday Sunday 10 May, 10am-2pm 10 May, - Mother's 10am-2pm Day Bookings - Mother's brunch. before becoming a qualified butcher and developing a real passion Check out our website for Day this month’s inBookings Milford. For Cam, the move brings his supermarket journey full pharmacists to events check eligibility. Getting vaccinated early helps r Check out our website for this month’s events in Mil .dy He started hisfood career in the industry inthat 2009 asit aall together. “Most essential. essential. Email manager@milfordcruising.co.nz Email manager@milfordcruising.co.nz for fresh and the clever teams bring circle. He started his career in the industry in 2009 as a od assistant, before butcher importantly, we’dbecoming love to getatoqualified know you! Over the coming weeks 2026 Covid Booster - Available Now! seafood before becoming a qualified butcher Pym’s Pym’s ofassistant, Milford of Live Milford Music Live Music and months, we want to hear from theand community: What matters to in Milford Free parking eveloping a real passion for fresh food the An updated Covid booster is now available. This booster contin • • Friday Friday 15 May –aWill 15 Vogel May – Will Vogel Free parking can in Milford and developing real passion for fresh and the you, what you about the store, any ideasfood you have for how parking All customer is free: r teams that bring itlove all together. “Mostand importantly, book your COVID booster online, and walk-ins are welcome • can • Friday Friday 22itMay - Jake 22 Pancho May Jake Pancho we make even better, ” says Cam. We’re so pleased to have All customer is free: thatOver bringthe it all together. Who can get the COVID booster for free? People aged 30 years 30 minutes in the main streetparking ove toclever get toteams know you! coming weeks“Most•importantly, Cam, Shasta and their family as part of the Milford community. If you at high risk. Those underWorld 30 years may still be eligible, dependi • 30 minutes in the main street we’d love to get to know you! Over the coming weeks • 120 minutes in the council car park next to New months, we want to hear from the community: What Autumn Food the Truck Food Series 2026 Truck Series seeAutumn them around store, make sure you stop by and say hello!2026 • Reserve, 180 minutes of the mall's in three parking areas ers to you, what you love about the store, and anycommunity: 120 minutes thecar council car park next to New World and months, we want toReserve, hear from the What in•any • • Friday Friday 22 May, Milford 22 May, 5pm-8pm Milford 5pm-8pm A Reminder For Pregnant Women Emergency Hub at the Milford Cruising Club you have for how we can make it even better,” says any the areas matters to you, what and any T Hyou E M love I L F Oabout R D B Uthe S I Nstore, ESS AS SOC I AT I O N •A P 180 P R E minutes C I AT E STwo Tin Himportant E S Uof PP O Rmall's T O : three car parking vaccines areFrecommended in every pregnancy Hill, Manager, Association Milford Business Association We’reideas so pleased toHill, have Cam, Shasta their Murray Murray Hill, Manager, Manager, Business Association Milford Business you have forMilford how we canand make it even Murray better,” says diphtheria) - free in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, and Flu vaccine manager@milfordshops.co.nz manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021If950 021 950 463 • milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950vaccines 463Milford • milfordshops.co.nz y as part of the Milford community. you463 see• milfordshops.co.nz them These help protect both mum and baby, offering early Murray Hill, Manager, Business Association Cam. We’re so pleased to have Cam, Shasta manager@milfordshops.co.nz and• their GOLD � milfordshops milfordshops � you milfordnz youtube and MilfordshopsTV � say milfordnz youtube MilfordshopsTV � milfordshops � milfordnz youtubevulnerable MilfordshopsTV nd the � store, make sure stop by hello! months. manager@milfordshops.co.nz • 021 950 463 • milfordshops.c family as part of the Milford community. If you see them T I AT I IO O NN A P Pthe A RH EP C P SFTE C P O R E TS TSH SI O U P O R TE S O FE: S U P Pyoutube milfordshops �T H milfordnz MilfordshopsTV around store, make sure you by T EI AT M IER L OHRE DSIU BA UPST Istop N E SO SF :and A Ssay OE Chello! I AT NP A�P PR EC I AT OR T OF: We're Here to Help 76 Issue 168 - October 2025 channelmag.co.nz
What’s What’s On in Milford On– May in 2026: Milford – May 2026:
Milford ook over this business around a nd is another young entrepreneur What’s On inWhat’s MilfordOn – October 2026: in Milford – October 2026: Milford. More than just ns, Unichem Milford Pharmacy nge of convenient health services u look after yourself and your t here in Milford. m your Living Rewards points tion reviews and expert pharmacist advice rking behind the pharmacy
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Secure your dream spot this summer Here’s your chance to experience the best of boutique retirement living. There's a lot to look forward to this summer. At the end of a quiet, leafy cul-de-sac in the heart of Milford, sixteen refurbished, modern apartments are taking shape at Lady Allum. Warm, beautifully finished homes with all the space and none of the upkeep, and a brand new lounge area for our local residents to come together. One-bedroom apartments start from $590,000^, and two-bedroom from $690,000^. Each one a warm, considered home, with a gym, craft centre, activities centre and garden room on your doorstep. And with Milford Centre, Shore City and some of Auckland's most beloved beaches just minutes away, every day brings something worth looking forward to. Sixteen refurbished, modern apartments. Sixteen chances to call one of Auckland's most loved suburbs home.
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Arts / Entertainment Pages
October 16, 2026
Tarawera eruption novel had 40-year gestation An idea sparked at a school trip 40 years ago has become reality for Castor Bay writer Sarah Ell, with her new novel Sky Full of Fire. Ell will be in conversation with friend and fellow author Josie Shapiro at Takapuna Library on 21 October. A Takapuna Grammar School old girl and former journalist, Ell said producing the novel felt fateful. “I always knew that I’d get there eventually.” Set around the 1886 Tarawera eruption, the story focuses on three main characters in Te Wairoa (the Buried Village). Two of the three are visitors, not necessarily there for good reasons. “There is a mystery and sense of impending doom that brings about a need for resolution. The eruption brings it to a head,” Ell said. She wanted to give a strong feeling of what the Pink and White Terraces were like so has included a lot of visual and historical detail. The original idea came during a Takapuna Grammar School camp at Tarawera in 1986. “It was the centenary of the eruption at the time and I had this idea to write a book about what would happen if this group of teenagers was down there and the mountain erupted.” A further catalyst for the work surfaced two decades later, during
a trip to the white terraces of Pamukkale, Türkiye. Eventually, Ell’s Tarawera story became her project during a Masters of Creative Writing degree in 2018. A launch event for the novel was held in Rotorua recently at the Buried Village, where members of Tūhourangi iwi blessed the book. “Most of the people who died in the eruption were Tūhourangi. They not only lost whānau but their livelihood and lands too, so it was a huge loss for them.” Ell’s first job after leaving school was as a journalist for the Auckland Star. She later worked for publishers, including Random House, but continued writing, often on historical topics. These days she is a freelance writer, editor and researcher. “I spend a lot of time editing other people’s work,” she says. “One of the main jobs I have is either ghostwriting, where I’m writing a book on behalf of someone else, or doing what they call heroic edits – it involves sitting with a client and asking them questions to draw out extra bits of the story to weave in.” She also does historic research for families and is currently doing heritage property research for Auckland Council.
Students enjoy poetry workshop
Spooky events planned amid
Year 13 Rosmini College student and literary enthusiast Boyd Archibald was behind an informal poetry workshop held at Takapuna Library during the school holidays. Working with librarian Pippa Mothersole, Boyd arranged for two established poets, Michele Leggott and a former student of hers, Makyla Curtis, to speak with and read to students. Joining Boyd at the workshop was fellow literary enthusiast Maya Timlin, a year 13 Carmel College student.
Halloween events at Lake House Arts Centre during October have been inspired by claims of real ghostly experiences in the heritage building. There are said to be four resident ghosts in the 130-year-old building, known as “the Tall Man”, “Patty” (a child), “James” and “the White Lady”. The kauri house, pictured at right on its original Takapuna Beach site, served as a boarding house and briefly as a hospital during the flu pandemic of 1918. It was relocated to its present Fred Thomas Drive site in 1996 and opened as an arts centre in 2000. Lake House marketing and media manager Rosie Plunkett says that while Lake House staff and visitors have reported personal paranormal experiences in the building, she remains a sceptic. She doesn’t doubt others experiences’ but believes a person’s personal beliefs influence how they might interpret happenings such as a door slamming or shadow moving across a wall. She admits she can’t easily explain events such as a moving shadow captured in a video, but says she’s had a good debate with centre manager Grae Burton over supposed photographic evidence of a ghost. The first Halloween event this year is “Inner Circle”, on Saturday 17 October from 8pm to 10pm. It will be similar to the venue’s monthly ghost tours led by Burton, but with smaller groups. Plunkett says attendees will get to see new “evidence” and have access to spaces normally off-limits. The following weekend brings the www.takapunamovies.co.nz “Lights Out Lake House Arts” family party Facebook and Instagram on Saturday 24 October, from 6pm to 9pm. @takapunabeachsidecinema It is the longest running of the centre’s Halloween events, having been held for around six years.
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Arts / Entertainment Pages
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after schooldays visit Her recently published books include Lost Wonders, a book for young adults about extinct New Zealand species. Last year she worked with the trust that runs The Elms-Te Papa in Tauranga to publish a history of their heritage property. Ell said she has always been interested in writing fiction, though, and had three novels for young adults published when she was in her 20s. One of them, When the War Came Home, about the 1918 flu epidemic, was shortlisted for an award for New Zealand children’s and young adult literature. She has written other novels that haven’t been published and is working on a few ideas at the moment. “The great thing about freelancing is I can fit other more vocational projects around it and I try to prioritise writing fiction.” She has joined a writers group and a couple of weeks at the Michael King Writers Centre this year also gave time to dedicate to her writing. “You catch up with your ideas and other ideas start coming into your head.” Ell says walking her dog is another good way to get into writing mode. “I never have music, but I talk to the dog about what I’m writing and think Long process... Sarah Ell first thought of writing a book set at Tarawera when she visited the area in as I’m walking and let the ideas come.” • Sarah Ell author talk, Takapuna Library, Wednesday, 21 October at 6pm. 1986
cast of ‘ghosts’ “It’s really grown since it started,” says centre education manager Shiraz Smith. “We get around 1000 people coming along.” Attendance by Paranormal New Zealand, who give a presentation and bring their animatronics, is a popular attraction. They provide a best costume prize, as does sponsor Lolly Shop and the Lake House. A third event, “Lake House After Dark 18+”, a Halloween party for adults including a bar, food and ghost tours, is on Saturday 31 October, from 6pm to 11pm. Whether Lake House is home to ghosts or not, what interests Plunkett in her own art (photography) is the idea of how land and space holds history and traces of memory, especially when an impactful event has happened. “Everything is made up of energy and particles. Something of significant impact sinks in, even if it’s in the consciousness and collective memory of the community.” She questions what moving a building does to the history of the space. How is history retained when things move on and are shifted around? For more information about the Lake House Halloween events, see lakehousearts. org.nz/our-arts/current-events/
SHOWING NOW Calle Malaga (M) 116min Sense and Sensibility (G) 132min Whalefall (M) 106min Big Girls Don’t Cry (R16) 99min Other Mommy (R16) 93min The Social Reckoning (M) 113min Tad and the Magic Lamp (PG) 94min Coyote vs Acme (PG) 103min Digger (R13) 129min An Evening with Victor Hugo (M) 90min Heart of the Beast (M) 102min Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom (G) 80min Forgotten Island (PG) 109min
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premium.co.nz
Linda Smith 021 470 175 | Rob Matulich 021 634 059
premium.co.nz | Fine Homes | Fine Apartments | Fine Lifestyles Premium Real Estate LTD Licensed REAA 2008 | Est.1984
PREMIUM R E S U LT S