Paradox closes, another bookstore opens... p3
July 17, 2026
Devonport Lanes meeting and debate... p5-7
Interview: Community worker Lofty Ned... p22-23
Brown passed on Peninsula’s view after lobbying
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown used his position to advance an argument put to him by Peninsula Capital, one of his campaign donors, emails obtained by the Devonport Flagstaff show.
Peninsula Capital contributed $25,000 to Brown’s campaign fund leading into the 2025 local body election.
Under the Official Information Act, the Flagstaff asked for any emails between
Peninsula Capital and Brown over the last two years.
An email and attached letter from Peninsula Capital to Brown on September 11, 2025 points to the “missed opportunity” to include ferry services to Devonport as rapid transit services in planning regulations.
The inclusion “would enable significant urban intensification in appropriate locations, in Auckland”, Peninsula Capital said.
A national policy statement definition referring only to road or rail as rapid transit appeared to “unintentionally” exclude ferry routes.
Brown forwarded the email and letter to council CEO Phil Wilson and director of policy, planning and governance Megan Tyler, with the tagline Devonport Ferry –Rapid Transit.
To page 4
Ballboys snaffle the silverware
Pride... Shore ballboys (from left) Liam Tilley, Janco Steyn, Beau Cooper and Cooper Blucher got their hands on the trophy after the club’s prem reserves won their final last Saturday. Story, page 11.
Check it out: Chess tournament launches at Sierra
Sierra Cafe Devonport owners Anish and Avantika Choudhary were so inspired by their teenage son’s passion for chess that they decided to host a tournament.
The “Devonport Village Let’s Play Chess Auckland Open” tournament launches with an inaugural event on 16 July, with plans to continue on a monthly basis.
It is being promoted in partnership with the Auckland Chess Academy.
The format is “Swiss League”, under which up to 30 players will play in each of six timed rounds of up to 15 minutes.
The entry fee is $40 for those over 16 and $35 for under-16s. Every player will receive a free coffee or soft drink and the tournament winner receives a cash prize.
Fourteen-year-old Abhinav Choudhary has only been playing for two years but has already won numerous competitions.
Some of his achievements include being the first child to beat 2024 New Zealand National Women’s Chess Champion Sarah Sun, at an event last year when she played multiple opponents.
Abhinav has also won the Chess Power Auckland Sarapu Cup three times and was the first in his age category to win a FIDE rated New Zealand Chess Federation competition.
He plays chess daily, says Anish, for around four hours in term time but most of the day during the holidays. “It’s a real passion for him.”
Write to the Devonport Flagstaff
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.
Devonport Publishing Ltd First Floor, 9 Wynyard St
Telephone: 09 445 0060
Email: sales@devonportflagstaff.co.nz news@devonportflagstaff.co.nz
Website: www.devonportflagstaff.co.nz
NZ COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARDS
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
ADVERTISING: Candice Izzard
DESIGN: Brendon De Suza
NEXT ISSUE: July 31
ADVERTISING DEADLINE: July 24
Authorised by Hon Simon Watts, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
Chairs of the board... Anish (left) and Avantika Choudhary are hosting a chess tournament at Sierra. Inset: Their chess-loving son Abhinav.
Last page turns for Victoria Rd’s Paradox Books
Paradox Books, a Devonport village institution for 30 years, is soon to be no more.
Owner of eight-and-a-half years, Terrie Gray, departs from the business on 31 August, its doors will close, and the Paradox name will disappear.
New owner Charlotte Gibbs has bought the business, stock and other assets and will move them to Fleet St, into premises currently occupied by Geoff Richards Architects, under a new name – Fleet Street Books.
Gray had the bookshop on the market for 18 months and in the end found a buyer close to home. Gray lives in Kapai Rd, central Devonport, and Gibbs three doors away in Garden Tce.
Gray says when she bought the bookshop, she saved it from closure. “It took five years to build up the stock to a good level.”
She battled through Covid and then tough economic times to build Paradox back into a destination bookshop.
Involvement in book launches organised by the Devonport Library Associates at Devonport Library “six or seven” times a year helped embed Paradox in the community, Gray said.
The best part of the job was the people. “We are all different, but people who appreciate good books always have something in common.”
At age 66 it was time to look ahead, she said. Her husband Rob, a lawyer in the city, was 70 and looking to retire. “And I want to retire with him.”
The couple have bought a bach at Baddeleys Beach near Matakana and plan to live there fulltime once they have sold their Devonport home.
Gray would have ideally liked to sell Paradox as a whole package. “I took a long time to get used to [the sale outcome]... and I wanted to keep my customers looked after.
“But the most important thing is Charlotte is the perfect person – very community minded and a local for 20-something years.”
Gibbs would be taking over Paradox’s tangible assets and honouring all gift tokens and loyalty arrangements.
New owner Charlotte Gibbs said she was delighted to be taking on the business, which
will open at its new site in September. She was grateful to Gray for reviving Paradox. “Paradox Books has always been an important part of our village life.”
The new store will sit alongside Gibbs’ publishing company, Toitoi, established in Devonport in 2015 to publish young people’s writing and art.
End of an era… Paradox owner Terrie Gray (left) with staff member Dinah Saxby.
‘Morning Wayne’: How firm took issue to Mayor Brown
Peninsula Capital lobbied Mayor Wayne Brown over a concern related to its push to intensify Devonport.
A proposed plan change did not recognise existing frequent, quick and high-capacity ferry operations as rapid transit services, said the company’s letter to Brown last September.
“This has led to Auckland Council not applying a walkable catchment around ferry terminals within the Auckland region.”
Reclassifying the ferry as rapid transit would ensure Devonport was appropriately recognised in council’s planning framework, “enabling more housing choice and aligning with central government requirements for growth around rapid transit nodes”.
A covering email from Peninsula Capital, which opens “Morning Wayne”, said ensuring the ferry was included as a primary transport link was important for the sustainability and growth of the Devonport business precinct.
“The ferry terminal and surrounding town centre is a natural hub for higher-density housing and mixed-use development whilst preserving the unique heritage characteristics of the Devonport area.
“Providing a fast, direct connection to the CBD is a strong urban form driver.”
The letter itself said classification as a rap-
Density...
Developer Peninsula Capital worried that the Devonport ferry was not being regarded as a rapid transit service
id-transit stop would “deepen Devonport’s integration into Auckland’s visitor network, increasing visitation, foot traffic and local spending – all of which are essential to supporting long-term commercial viability and vibrancy in the Devonport town centre”.
Some of the letter to the mayor has been redacted by council officers, as has the name of the Peninsula Capital representative who sent the email and letter.
‘Please consider this...’
From page 1
“Phil, Megan. Please read the attached letter and consider this important point especially during the discussions about intensification.”
Tyler contacted council officers Luke Christianson, Angie Burn and Stu Mullin: “I went back to the Mayor to say I’d discuss with you... What to you want to do with this query issue?”
The email trail released to the Flagstaff ends with that message from Tyler.
Devonport Lanes Debate
Battle ‘for village soul’ ramps up at public meeting
A public forum on Peninsula Capital’s development plans for Devonport town centre has been organised by Devonport Heritage at Harmony Hall.
The plan, which includes five new buildings of up to eight storeys, a hotel and 80 to 90 apartments, has been submitted for fast-track approval without public debate.
The issue is “similar to save Ngataringa Bay”, says Devonport Heritage chair Margot McRae, referring to a local planning stoush of half a century ago.
In the late 1960s Devonport Borough Council gave a developer the rights to fill in Ngataringa Bay and subdivide for housing. In the seventies a new council rescinded the decision and for years a special rate was applied to Devonport households to pay the developer compensation.
She was appalled that the project was put forward for fast-tracking, with the process remaining confidential until it was signed off or rejected by Cabinet.
“If it hadn’t been for the Flagstaff [which obtained a copy of Peninsula Capital’s master plan], none of the plans would have been made public,” she said.
Peninsula Capital had applied once before for the project to be fast-tracked by government but had been knocked back.
McRae said the project failed to meet the fast-tracking criteria applied to other housing projects around New Zealand, many of which had thousands of homes.
“[Peninsula Capital] should have to apply for a resource consent like everyone else. It’s an attempt to escape the resource consent process.”
vonport town centre, but the scale of the Peninsula proposal was not in keeping with the village.
Under current planning regulations the maximum height for buildings in Devonport village is 13 metres – three to four storeys.
Speakers at the forum will include: Architect Lindsay Mackie from Archimedia, Jackie Gillies, heritage architect; Richard Reid, landscape architect; Dave Serjeant, resource management consultant and hearing commissioner; and Devonport-Takapuna Local Board chair Trish Deans.
Devonport Heritage said directors of Peninsula Capital and Simon Watts MP had been asked to speak but declined the invitation.
McRae said the modern-day proposal meant “a battle for the soul of Devonport”.
• Devonport Heritage Public Meeting, Wednesday 15 July, 7pm, at Harmony Hall, 4 Wynyard Street Devonport. New
McRae said Devonport Heritage was happy to have more apartments in De-
Interest rates to tick up
Interest rates are likely to tick up over the next few months as the RBNZ raised the OCR to 2.50% and signalled a gradual rise to a more neutral rate of 3% over the next 6mths or so - this is based on their view that the economy will slowly pick up following the oil price disruption and that there will be some inflationary pressures still to come. Mortgage rates are likely to tick up as well with current 12mths at 4.59% and 2yr at 4.99% looking like good value as longer terms rates are all well over 5% - anecdotally it seems many businesses are more confident about the near term apart from property in some centres and hospo which are suffering a bit of winter blues. Speak to us about any financing requirements we can invariably help.
Contact Mike Simpson on 021 283 8040 or mike.simpson@mortgagesupply.co.nz or contact Richard Trounson on 027 580 1004 or richard.trounson@mortgagesupply.co.nz
Devonport Lanes Debate
Opinion split over Peninsula property development plan
The Flagstaff contacted community leaders about Peninsula Capital’s Devonport Lanes proposal and asked them to address two questions: Is the maximum height of the development – eight storeys – too high for Devonport village? And is fast-tracking the appropriate mechanism to decide whether it goes ahead?
Eight storeys is too high, and democratic input is needed
North Shore Councillor John Gillon: I’ve been contacted by many people concerned about the proposed development and the effect it could have on both the character of the village and the traffic on Lake Rd.
While this proposal is not yet fully public, what we do know radically breaches
numerous Unitary Plan rules, including the eight-storey buildings that would be five storeys over the limit.
The development is proposed in a very sensitive location where there are intentionally numerous restrictions in place, designed to ensure that any development is in keeping with existing heritage buildings and height limits to protect views of Takarunga/Mount Victoria. The height limit for most of the site is 13m / 3 storeys (and that isn’t set to change under PC120). Eight storeys is far too high.
I don’t support the fast-track process for this application. Fast tracking bypasses proper democratic input, and so legally a project must meet the high threshold of having “significant regional or national benefits”. I just can’t see how this proposal reaches that threshold.
If the application proceeds, it should be through the standard consent process, and be publicly notified so that it can be given thorough consideration and input from the Devonport community.
Does project contribute more than Unitary Plan already allows?
Chair of Devonport-Takapuna Local Board
Trish Deans:
As the Chairperson and resource consent lead of the DTLB my role is to ask key questions of the Minister of Infrastructure. Does this application by Devonport Property Management Limited meet the criteria for assessing a Fast-Track referral application? The Fast-Track Approvals Act states, “The purpose of the Act is to facilitate the delivery of infrastructure and development
projects with significant regional or national benefits.”
Does this project make a significant contribution over and above what the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) already enables? Is this project addressing the serious shortfall in housing in Auckland or contributing towards Auckland Council meeting the Government’s requirement for Plan Change 120 to provide 1.4 million new homes?
The development offers 80-90 apartments, and these apartments are unlikely to be affordable to the first home buyers. Is this sufficient to be considered by the FTAA process?
No comment...
“Sorry I can’t respond to this question at this time, due to the confidential nature of the Local Board feedback and input I would not like to compromise this by voicing publicly my opinion on this.” Gavin Busch, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board member.
“We are not in a position to respond to your request at this time.” Challen Wilson, spokesperson for the Tūpuna Maunga Authority. No response was received by deadline from Peninsula Capital’s Mark Hiddleston, North Shore Councillor Richard Hills or local architect Julie Stout. The Flagstaff also contacted Tūpuna Maunga Authority co-chair Paul Majurey but received no response.
The AUP already permits a reasonable amount of development in Devonport town centre at a reasonable scale. The project’s proposed gross floor area of retail and commercial space is not significantly more than what could be built under the AUP.
What is the effect on the scale and height of the project on central Devonport? Victoria Rd is recognised throughout New Zealand as an historic site with a coherent, and almost unparalleled, streetscape of scheduled Category A and B historic heritage buildings.
Should the public “Have a Say” as of right under the Local Government Act?
Auckland Council’s submissions on Peninsula Capital’s Devonport Lanes apartments and hotel plans will be sent to central government today.
Peninsula Capital is seeking referral to a panel to consider an application under the Fast Track Approvals Act.
Under the Act (sections 21 and 22), the application will be reviewed by MCERT (the Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport), and the Minister for Infrasructure Chris Bishop will decide if the project will result in national and regional benefits.
Auckland Council is asked to submit comment, with staff planning to do so by the Ministry’s due date of 17 July.
If the request to use the fast-track process is successful, the application will ultimately be considered by an expert panel appointed by the Environmental Protection Authority.
Devonport
Business Association chair Michael Moughan:
I am responding in my personal capacity – this response should not be treated as a board position. From a business perspective, Devonport Lanes looks like a positive development. The village centre gives the suburb an urban heart: somewhere to meet, shop, eat, stay and do business.
Devonport Lanes Debate
and its attempt to use government’s fast-track process Development would help make village economy sustainable Eight
Devonport
Heritage chair
Margot McRae: Eight-storey buildings are an extreme violation of the present height limits of between 9 and 13 metres. These limits are there to protect the precious views to and from Takarunga and to allow the historic buildings to dominate the streetscape. Pictures in the Flagstaff (3 July) show
However, it currently struggles, and needs more activity.
More people living and staying in the centre would support shops, hospitality and services, increase activity and help make the village economy more sustainable. The proposed design could also significantly improve the ground-level experience behind the main street, creating much-needed spaces for people and businesses.
Height will clearly be an issue for some. Any development should carefully integrate with Devonport’s historic buildings and village character, but I would not rule
out a development simply because it is eight storeys. The key questions are whether it is well designed, uses quality materials and complements Devonport’s identity.
On fast-tracking, there is a balance to be struck between timely decision-making and appropriate scrutiny.
The RMA process can mean years of delay, substantial cost, and ultimately no investment. From a business perspective, I fully support property owners and developers using the processes available to them, while recognising that those with concerns are entitled to be heard.
maunga; fast track being misused
how the proposed buildings will obliterate the connection between Takarunga and the town and completely dwarf the Victoria Road buildings.
Such tall buildings are totally incompatible with Devonport’s unique historic identity and will destroy much of what is attractive and special about the village.
It will create a precedent and allow more tall buildings to be built.
The views of Takarunga from the ferry and Windsor Reserve up Victoria Road will be reduced to glimpses and all relationship
between them will be lost. Will visitors still flock here to visit when Devonport looks much like anywhere else?
Fast-track is designed for major developments that have “regional or national significance”, but this is a small developer wanting to build expensive apartments for wealthy people. It is an outrageous misuse of the fast-track process, enabling the developer to get approval quickly and cheaply by preventing any dissenting voices from being heard. Ninety-six per cent of fast-track developments are approved.
Seven children, one hip
Seven children, one hip
Janet always dreamed of retiring to the Hawke’s Bay. The wineries. The orchards. After raising seven children, surely she’d earned the right to enjoy what came after.
“I carried all seven of my kids on that hip,” she says. “You don’t think about what it might mean later.”
What it meant later was a hip that remembered every single one. Janet found herself counting benches, calculating whether it was even worth starting a walk.
Nothing she tried did the job. Janet had made her peace with a smaller life.
Then her grandson came to visit.
He’d heard about Koru FX through his work. He thought about his grandmother and all those walks she couldn’t take anymore. He brought a few bottles.
Janet was willing to try. But she wasn’t expecting much. “Hope was something I’d learned to ration.”
Morning and night, she rubbed it into her hip. The first cold morning surprised her. Her hip moved. Not perfectly. But without the usual fight.
Within weeks, walking became walking again.
The next time her grandson visited, Janet made sure to tell him. The winery walks were back within reach.
“He was so chuffed. He’d wanted to help his nan, and he had.”
“My grandson just wanted to help his nan. And he did.”
Hideous tall buildings would overwhelm village’s charm
Thanks for publishing the details of Peninsula Capital’s Devonport “master plan” submitted to Auckland Council.
I am sure that countless Devonport residents who love this place will be rightfully horrified at the possibility of these plans coming to fruition in their current form.
Your opening line of the article: “The Devonport village skyline would be radically altered for buildings up to eight storeys…”, seems to suggest you understand why this would be totally unacceptable for our heritage village.
Yet in your Editor’s comments you write that the “artistic impressions in the master plan look appealing”.
Esplanade also needs work
It was good to see the new plans for the Devonport village, proposed by Berridge Spencer and his team.
I agree with your sentiments that this could be a positive move for the area, provided the height factor is not too imposing. From the plans, the height doesn’t look to be that bad, being set back from the road frontage.
I just wish they could purchase the Esplanade Hotel and give that a major refurb in keeping with its heritage. The Esplanade should be a major landmark for Devonport and a real drawcard. It’s a disgrace to see the building in its current state.
Neil Bailey
Never a dull week in Flagstaff’s Devonport
The 3 July edition of the Flagstaff stopped me mid-scroll. A Devonport Druid leading several hundred people into the water at Windsor Reserve in the middle of winter, with a kid dressed as a shark, seven pirates, a unicorn and a superhero being launched into the air alongside them. That’s not a story you find anywhere else. That’s what a paper like the Flagstaff makes possible.
Your piece on Devonport Lanes stayed with me as well.
Looking out the Flagstaff office window onto Wynyard St on a cold winter’s day; weighing up progress against heritage; locals calling the paper about a broken ATM; “there’s more ways than one to become a cashless society”. That’s an editor who is woven into the community. I’ll be reading the next edition. Devonport clearly never has a dull week. Dev Sinha, New York
No one can deny that Wynyard St with its “scruffy carpark, hotchpotch of rooflines and patchy connections to Victoria Rd” is far from ideal. But if Peninsula Capital really valued our wonderful suburb, why would they feel it necessary to overwhelm the charm of the village with these hideous and inappropriately tall buildings?
The economic benefits listed by the group may well in time come to pass.
However, it doesn’t mention the huge impact that a development of this size will have on the businesses and families living in Devonport, who will be subjected to years of disruption. You simply have to look at what happened to the businesses around
the building of the City Rail Link, to see what occurs during a huge construction project like this.
And that’s not even factoring in the effect on Lake Road!
If “local residents” Graham Turley and Berridge Spencer really value Devonport, they will immediately go back to the drawing board and reduce this overpowering monstrosity, so that it doesn’t ruin Devonport for future generations.
If they don’t take heed of the wave of local indignation that is coming their way, their “legacy” may not be quite what they were hoping for.
Richard Jones
Transparency needed, not fast track
The proposed buildings in the new Peninsula Capital development are not a “cautious long term view” of developing Devonport (Flagstaff Notes, 3 July).
They dominate a heritage setting and seem to be inspired not by Devonport architecture, but by concrete slums in 1960s London that are being detonated or catching on fire.
Rob Drent notes that the owners live “locally”, as if, in some way, we as “other locals” are expected to excuse the greed associated with the incongruity in the design.
The owners of Peninsula Capital no doubt have a clear vision of what they want, but unfortunately the natural beauty of the two mountains in Devonport will not be seen so clearly anymore.
Never mind, apparently you can still see them when you are walking up the adjacent footpath.
The arrogance of putting forward a de-
sign like this is matched by the manner in which these “locals” want the design to be approved – without a transparent assessment of the environmental effects and with as little local input as possible.
Business owners with Peninsula Capital as a landlord won’t be rocking the boat. I therefore urge locals who are concerned about the development to write to their local board, councillor and MP to stop the fast-track process.
Let a transparent and democratic process follow, not one run by well-paid consultants behind closed doors.
Michael Parker
• Editor Rob Drent replies: In 29 years of covering various developments in Devonport, I’ve found local owners have taken greater care than outsiders coming in as a commercial venture. After all, locals run into their neighbours at the supermarket and around town.
No consultation? Don’t expect community’s endorsement
Imagine Arrowtown’s Buckingham St backed by eight-storey-high buildings.
This kind of concept for Devonport, is what Minister Bishop will be asking Cabinet to send to the Fast Track Panel without any in the Devonport community having an opportunity to consider this project – taking Devonport from a charming historical village centre to a bustling metropolis on steroids, throwing shade on Windsor Reserve, Victoria Rd and the community who live here.
Though the developers say they wish to promote heritage, they seek to bypass any consultation with those who have steadfastly sought to protect heritage buildings in Devonport for many years.
Although the project has some admira-
ble qualities, it is simply too high. Scale it down to three-four storeys and perhaps the community that live here will wholeheartedly support it. Don’t consult – don’t expect endorsement.
To the National-led coalition government, don’t expect endorsement either if the community is locked out from a democratic process by allowing this project to proceed to the Fast Track Panel.
I would suggest that the comment in the master plan by the developers that it is “designed to sit comfortably alongside this historic fabric, respecting scale, grain and identity” is hogwash, along with the comment that “maunga views are protected”. Avril Cowie
Excitement for some, dread for others as threat looms over village
There is a hush over Devonport. Some would say it’s excitement; others would describe it as a sense of dread as the fast-track proposal threatens to transform Devonport from a quaint, historic village into a landscape dominated by high-rise residential and commercial development.
It is understandable that opinions differ. Some welcome the prospect of increased housing and economic growth, while others fear that the very character that makes Devonport unique could be lost forever.
What I found disappointing, however, was that the Flagstaff’s recent front page article and editorial gave relatively little attention to the genuine concerns being expressed by many local residents.
The greatest concern is not simply the development itself, but the fast-track process. Many residents feel that decisions of this magnitude are being rushed, with limited opportunity for meaningful community consultation on changes that will permanently alter the face of Devonport.
Heritage is another major issue. Devonport’s historic streetscape and village atmosphere are central to its identity. Many people worry that buildings of the proposed
height will overwhelm the existing character, fundamentally changing the skyline and diminishing the unique heritage identity that locals and visitors love.
There are also practical concerns that deserve careful consideration.
Questions remain about Lake Rd access, increasing traffic congestion, pressure on water and wastewater infrastructure, flooding risks and whether existing services can cope with such a significant increase in density.
While developers have provided reassurances, many residents would like to see these issues independently scrutinised before irreversible decisions are made.
The Flagstaff has long been valued as a newspaper that reflects the voices of the Devonport community. On an issue as significant as this, I am hoping for a fuller exploration of the concerns being raised, alongside the potential benefits of the proposal. A balanced discussion would help ensure that residents feel their voices are being heard before decisions are made that will shape Devonport for generations to come.
Suzanne Glendinning
Neglected footpath leads to bad injury
I read with interest the letter in last week’s (10 July) Rangitoto Observer regarding dangerous and cracked footpaths in Takapuna. Five weeks ago my husband tripped on a broken and uneven footpath in Church St, Devonport, resulting in a broken hip, immense pain, surgery and weeks of recovery before being able to walk again.
Though the unevenness was not due to tree roots, it is due to neglect. Devonport
– in fact the whole peninsular – is rife with dangerous cracked footpaths, many from tree roots and many from whatever else causes this widespread and dangerous problem.
With such a high number of elderly people, perhaps Auckland Council is failing in its job to ensure citizen safety by ignoring this dangerous problem.
Rita Riccola
We need you!
As many readers will know, New Zealand’s media is undergoing massive change. In the last few years, Newshub has confirmed it is canning its hourly evening news show and morning AM show in July; TVNZ has dropped Fair Go and its Sunday programme; Life and Leisure Magazine has closed.
I hope you are prepared to pay something towards the production of our newspapers. Click ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of our website pages: devonportflagstaff.co.nz Every little bit helps.
Please sign up for our email alerts for when the paper goes online and to get our weekly newsletter.
HOW TO HELP US:
Go to devonportflagstaff.co.nz and click to ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of the page
Rob Drent Editor
High-flying Shore crash to earth against old foe
Takapuna pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent North Harbour rugby by beating defending champions North Shore in the premiers championship semi-final on 4 July.
Trailing 12-3 after 15 minutes, it looked like Takapuna were on the way out against Shore, unbeaten to that point in 2026. Flanker Liam Sturm had scored two smart tries, the second featuring nifty footwork around the blindside.
But with a stiff breeze at their backs, and bolstered by the return of locks Jack Lee and Tristyn Cook adding grunt to the everconsistent hooker David Meki and flanker Gage Jackson, Takapuna hit back to score three tries and two penalties and lead 3012 after 33 minutes. Takapuna, who had a patchy season, finishing fourth in pool play and losing a quarter-final match against East Coast Bays the previous week, were suddenly eyeing a finals spot.
Shore weren’t finished, though. A late firsthalf try by JD Van der Westhuizen under the posts made the score 30-19 and set up an exciting second half.
And so it transpired. Immediately after the break, Shore captain Donald Coleman scored and at 30-26 it was anyone’s game.
Another Takapuna penalty had the blueand-golds edge ahead 33-26, before the pivotal moment of the match.
Shore second five Oscar Koller sidestepped away from one defender on his own line but then had his clearing kick charged down by Cook – who athletically grounded the ball just short of the dead ball line.
Shore then threw everything at Takapuna, who grimly, bravely hung on, defending wave after wave of Shore attacks.
Coleman scored again with two minutes to play, and with the quickly taken conversion making it 38-33, Shore had a chance at a lastgasp win. But Takapuna held on – much to the delight of their large crowd of supporters.
Shore hospitality earns ref’s respect
In a week where the Wellington Rugby Union called off matches following a series of referee abuse incidents, it was a different story at North Shore. Semi-final referee Ryan Nixon wrote to the North Shore club after the match: “It was a fantastic occasion, and the kind of game that we live for as referees; I felt privileged to be a part of it. Obviously in a game like that, there’s bound to be a couple of decisions that can go either way... I guess there was a little bit of worry in the back of my head that I might experience some hostility afterwards. However, that couldn’t have been further from the truth. The hospitality in the clubrooms, and the respect shown by those in attendance at the aftermatch is to be commended.”
Great team, shame about result against noisy neighbours
The 2026 North Shore premiers must rate as the best side not to win the North Harbour rugby championship.
Well trained, superbly fit, with classy players throughout the team, Shore was undefeated in pool play and seemed to be cruising like a well-oiled machine towards its fourth championship in a row.
So what happened? A few cracks appeared in its quarter-final against Silverdale: a lack of set-piece dominance, too many dropped passes and errors and the odd poor tactical decision.
But no biggies. Perhaps Shore’s biggest problem was the North Harbour competition itself – Shore played only eight matches – it had two byes and three defaults, leaving big gaps in regular play.
Many of the matches it did play were
high-scoring wins – great for blooding younger players, and working on combinations, but not particularly great preparation for the rugged reality of finals footie.
And that’s what Shore got with an almost fanatically determined Takapuna side.
Sure, Takapuna had a few top players back from Blues duty (Tristyn Cook and Jack Lee were powerhouse locks in the semifinal) but there’s nothing unusual in players returning from Super Rugby later in the season.
And Shore were up 12-3 playing into the wind. Then “they didn’t get the rub of the green”, as one spectator put it.
They made mistakes, failing to clear the ball in their own half. The referee and touch judges missing a knock-on in the lead-up to a Takapuna try, several late tackles and
incidents of off-ball play. And the wind actually dropping in the second half. The Takapuna defence was heroic – four or five times knocking back what seemed certain Shore tries.
Shore’s class showed in how close it came to coming back from 30-12 down. It still had a slim chance to win with two minutes to go.
In the end Takapuna wanted it more.
But I hope this Shore side stays intact. Many of its younger players would never have tasted defeat at premier level, but now there’s everything to play for in 2027.
One thing is certain: the rivalry between Takapuna and Shore – and their loud band of supporters – is stronger than ever.
Rob Drent (who has covered the North Shore premiers for 29 years).
Giving his all… Shore captain Donald Coleman, injured in scoring his second try deep in the second half, is supported back onto the field by Jackson Savage
Premier 2s blow away Massey in final triumph
Jordan-like... Shore winger Truman Cuff goes over between the posts for a spectacular try
North Shore premier reserves won their North Harbour championship final last Saturday, demolishing Massey 81-28 to remain undefeated in 2026.
A large crowd filled the Vauxhall Rd stand for the match, which provided some welcome comfort after the premier side’s upset loss on the same ground a week before.
Shore started with three quick tries to lead 17-0 after 10 minutes and never really looked back despite some flurries from Massey, who scored two tries in each half.
Shore led 46-14 at half-time and as many predicted were in a different league
to Massey in fitness, skills and execution.
Forwards Tom Bradford, Tristen Read and the powerful Muli Maasi had strong games.
Wing Truman Cuff was the pick of the backs, scoring a stunning individual try under the posts after a Will Jordan-like weaving, sidestepping crossfield run, beating half the Massey team in the process.
The Shore side notched almost 200 points in the semi-finals and finals combined, beating East Coast Bays 107-5 in the semifinal.
In 16 matches the side scored 981 points with just 180 points against. Sione Kana-
tea-ofa was top try scorer with 23.
The Shore final 22: Vaivaihefolau Kailahi, Sione Kanatea-Ofa, Tom Bradford, Aaron Ryan, Tristen Read, Weropuna Witika, Charlie Fethney, Muli Maasi, Charlie McNeil, Noah Tu’isilia, Truman Cuff, Zane Douglas, Will Siale, Eruera Kaio, Eli Adlington, Popoai Finau, TK Alofa, DJ Parker, James Daniel, Moriki Read, Junior Alofa, Siasoi Leali’fano.
Their head coach was Josh Blucher, with Leon Avenant, Wayne Ratu and Leigh Thompson assisting. The manager was Andrew Holloway, trainer Dean Rice and physio Sophie Rhodes.
Facetime…Zane Douglas scores. Right: Shore players celebrate after receiving their trophy.
Private family home tucked away
Walk along the right of way to your perfect family haven. This easy-care home features a spacious lounge with city views and modern sunny kitchen, dining, and family room that flows effortlessly to a deck for entertaining and enjoying outdoor space. Well maintained private fenced gardens create a safe, serene outdoor space for your family. Your kids will love the large, paved area in front of the double garage for ball games as well as extra parking. Experience comfortable living, excellent amenities, and a fantastic lifestyle in this exceptional family home. bayleys.co.nz/1470847
bayleys.co.nz
4 2 2 2
Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 30 Jul 2026
Bayleys Corner, 2-8 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland
View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm Lynda Betts 021 278 3024 lynda.betts@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS
By Rob Drent
After 43 years in journalism, it still amazes me the energy generated by a scoop.
Our story on Peninsula Capital’s plans for a five-building development of up to eight storeys in Devonport hit the streets late morning on Wednesday 1 July.
By mid-day emails and texts about the story had started flowing in.
Cars were zooming up Wynyard St then stopping outside our offices while drivers jumped out to pick up a copy.
By early afternoon the NZ Herald was scrambling to match our story.
Filmmaker Colin McRae, who is making a documentary on Devonport, was on the job, capturing me taking the paper out to stands.
By late afternoon the couple of hundred copies we dropped at the New World counter had disappeared. We had to top up supplies there and at the rapidly emptying stands around town.
Social media lit up with the news and I was being stopped in the street by readers wanting to discuss the story.
By the weekend all our spare copies had gone and I’d had to ferret a few away in a drawer for safekeeping. Including our home delivery, that was 11,000 copies gone in a matter of days.
Who said print was dead?
If the height and scale of the Peninsula Capital redevelopment of Devonport village is the main local worry about the plan, increased traffic on an already clogged Lake Rd is close behind.
And Devonport Lanes is only one of many developments coming to the Devonport Peninsula. There’s the 300- to 350-unit Summerset village at Eversleigh Rd working through the planning process, with earthworks to start in 2027; the almost completed Ngāti Whātua developments in Bayswater for Navy housing; and the larg er-scale zoning around the Belmont shops which will yield many new multi-storey townhouses. Most of Bayswater, Belmont, Narrow Neck and Hauraki are in a mixed housing suburban zone under proposed plan changes – with three townhouses per site allowed as of right – four if a resource consent is approved.
earmarked for massive redevelopment as part of increased government spending on defence.
All these projects, large and small, will add to the traffic.
One local body official I talked to last week felt the only way Lake Rd would be “solved” was for large projects like Devonport Lanes to proceed. The scale would mean Auckland Transport having to look at real solutions for Lake Rd – abandoning “quick fixes” like the tinkering around with lane changes at the Belmont shops – and consider dedicated T2 or T3 bus lanes. Or, dare I say it, some form of tram to get cars off the road.
Another other key concern about Peninsula Capital’s application is the lack of public input into the plan under its fast-tracking application, which goes to Auckland Council for evaluation with some input locally from the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, before government makes a decision.
Devonport residents have always wanted to have a say in big decisions affecting their area. Many readers will recall the uproar and anger over the sale of the Bayswater marina reclamation and the decision to sell much of Devonport’s defence land to Ngāti Whātua without any local input.
Devonport Heritage has a point when it says Peninsula Capital should have to apply for resource consent for the project like anyone else. From the developer’s perspective, they are giving it a go with the fast track application to get the project moving as quickly as possible.
Devonport residents concerned about the fast tracking who voted National at the last election may want to do a bit of soul searching over the planning sidestep introduced by the coalition.
Much will depend, I suspect, on mana whenua’s view on the project and how it impacts Takarunga. So far the Tūpuna Maunga Authority has been publicly silent on the plans.
Is it time for Devonport (and Takapuna) to have a “Destination Strategy” written by council tourism arm Tātaki Auckland?
Whatever you think about Peninsula Capital’s plans for five new buildings in Devonport village, change is upon us.
Matakana, Great Barrier and Waiheke all have official tourism strategies extensively outlining opportunities, options and challenges. Why not a similar strategy for the Shore?
Devonport and the Shore generally seem to have been increasingly ignored as a tourism destination by tourism authorities since North Shore City Council disappeared into the corridors of the amalgamated council.
The Devonport Food & Wine Festival – a fantastic two-day event on Windsor Reserve – was canned largely because Auckland Council stopped funding it as it was not seen as regionally significant. This ignored the fact that thousands came over on packed ferries, with operator Fullers putting on numerous extra boats.
Devonport’s visitor information centre was closed, with a much-reduced offering shifted to the wharf, then that closed as well. The information kiosk at the ferry terminal is run by volunteers.
Tourism authorities have generally taken it as a given that a significant number of visitors to Auckland will grab a ferry over to Devonport because it is so easy to do. And now the numbers will increase markedly. The CRL train link will bring thousands more people into downtown Auckland right next to the ferry terminal. A day trip from West Auckland to Devonport will be fairly easy – and no need to battle Lake Rd. If the Labour Party gets into government at the coming election, its $20 a week public transport fare cap will make trips to Devonport even more attractive.
How will ferry sailings mesh with cruise ship arrivals? Will there be sufficient public toilets and rubbish bins to cope with a visitor influx? Over the next decade, with a Peninsula Capital development becoming a reality, with destination shops, restaurants and a hotel part of the mix, a considered approach to tourism is needed.
Then, the unknowns – the Ngāti Whātua land at the old Navy Officers Training School on Vauxhall Rd, leased long-term to the Navy, will surely become residential at some stage, possibly as another retirement home; and the Navy base, which is
Rehomed club keen to attract young swimmers
Six months on from shifting their activities to the refurbished Takapuna Grammar School pool, Devonport Swim Club (DSC) is launching a youth initiative fund to grow membership.
The idea is to have DSC members donating to the fund and some are already on board.
“We would love to be able to approach Takapuna Grammar and have them put forward recipients for the fund,” club president Simon Forrest says. “It’s a really nice way for us to give back and make a difference for more youth.”
Having previously operated from the Navy pool at the HMNZS Philomel Base, changing security protocols meant DSC had been on the hunt for a new home since 2021.
They officially started operating from the Takapuna Grammar School pool in October 2025, but further remedial work meant it was out of action at the beginning of 2026.
The interruption meant 2026 got off to a quieter start, but Forrest is confident about youth numbers growing again for terms three and four.
DSC has around 180 members, with a roughly even split of adults and youth.
Working with TGS and Rafael Souza, the coach shared between the school and DSC, it hopes to expand youth membership.
“Our aim is to get 30-40 youth swimmers in the pool at a time,” Forrest says.
Getting more youth swimmers taking part in the Round North Head sea swim is another Club aim.
The event, open to the wider community, has been running for 16 years.
Forrest reckons that with a year of uninterrupted swim training ahead, youth swimmers will be prepared.
“It would be wonderful having 20 young people taking part, as it would change the feel of the event.”
Poolside... Devonport Swim Club president Simon Forrest and coach Rafael Souza
Forrest is also keen for DSC to help make it easier to connect swimmers with each other.
It was something he found difficult him-
self after taking up swimming 15 years ago. “When you’re connecting with people in your community, it helps you realise how wonderful this place is,” he says.
Cost: $125 per person All materials supplied. Tapestry looms will be available to purchase from the tutor Limited numbers - bookings essential Saturday 1st August 10am - 4pm
For more information and/or to book:
More Less stress. confidence.
At Barfoot & Thompson Property Management, our experienced local team takes care of the day-to-day challenges, so you can enjoy the benefits of property investment without the headaches.
From finding quality tenants and maximising rental returns to managing compliance and maintenance, we’re here to protect your investment and give you peace of mind.
Thinking about getting your property managed? Call us today to discuss your rental property and receive a free rental appraisal.
Drive on down, there's plenty of room. 1980s, split-level, four-bedroom home with internal-access garaging, tucked well back from the road.
barfoot.co.nz/936016
SALE By Negotiation
VIEWING Sunday 12:00-12:30pm
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681
3/16 QUEENS PARADE
One of Devonport's most sought-after pockets, this charming two-bedroom unit puts you right in the heart of everything.
barfoot.co.nz/935967
$850,000 VIEWING Phone For Viewing Times
Kurt Piper 021 137 6450
The Chance to Future Proof For Your Family Is Here. Needing vision, this two level home with units has views and access to beautiful Ngataringa Bay.
barfoot.co.nz/936318
AUCTION
10am 23 Jul 2026 at The Promenade, Takapuna (unless sold prior)
VIEWING Sat/Sun 12:00-12:30pm
Patricia Hinchey 027 222 3367
2/1 ARAMOANA AVENUE
Renovated from ‘head to toe’ and set over two levels, this 1980’s townhouse has plenty to shout about... A must view! Call us now!
barfoot.co.nz/935523
VIEWING Sat/Sun 1:30-2:00pm
Toni Gregory 021 044 3663
Alexandra Corbin 021 643 673 FOR SALE By Negotiation
Devonport 09 445 2010
DEVONPORT
Superbly positioned in one of Cheltenham's most coveted cul-de-sacs, this perfectly reinvented home has to be seen to be fully appreciated. Call today.
barfoot.co.nz/936037
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452 FOR SALE By Negotiation VIEWING Sunday 2:00-2:30pm
WICKLOW ROAD
506m² FREEHOLD LAND in NARROW NECK! Calling all builders, developers & families. Location & opportunity. Do not miss this rare chance!
barfoot.co.nz/930470
2/45 VAUXHALL ROAD
Minutes walk to Cheltenham Beach. Electric garage door plus car pad. Best buy in Devonport. Smart buying!
barfoot.co.nz/931782
VIEWING
Please call to arrange your private viewing
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452 FOR SALE By Negotiation
2/56 BERESFORD STREET
VIEWING Sunday 12:00-12:30pm
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 FOR SALE By Negotiation
A charming cottage-style home. Something truly special, you're sure to fall in love, be quick to view, don't miss out.
barfoot.co.nz/932983
By Negotiation
VIEWING Sunday 11:00-11:30am
Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452
Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 FOR SALE
Barfoot & Thompson
Club shares plans for heritage building
Latest plans to restore the historic Bayswater clubhouse will be revealed by the Takapuna Boating Club in a public meeting at Belmont Park Racquets Club at 6.30pm on 23 July.
The evening will give residents the chance to learn more about plans, ask questions of the restoration team and share their ideas for the building's future.
The restoration project aims to preserve the landmark clubhouse while ensuring it continues to serve the community for generations to come.
Ahead of the meeting, the Takapuna Boating Club is conducting a community survey to gather feedback from local residents about how they would like to see the restored clubhouse used. The club says local input will help shape the vision for the prominent waterfront building.
Rust-belt 80s Devonport recalled
Devonport
Go to devonportflagstaff.co.nz and click on ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of the page.
Flagstaff “In your little part of the big city”
A photo taken in Devonport in the 1980s is included in Roadscapes – an Automotive Retrospective of Aotearoa New Zealand by Derek Smith, being published by Bateman Books next month. Titled “Bedford, Devonport 1983”, the image shows a bus with “Rosmini” in its destination window. While the street is not identified, the bus appears to be parked in a Queens Pde driveway, near two rusty-roofed villas, perhaps with the Calliope Rd ridge in the background. • Can readers throw any light on where the bus was parked? Did it carry students from the peninsula to Rosmini College? Contact news@devonportflagstaff.co.nz
Find your new home in one of our 11 villages across Auckland, from Orewa to Pukekohe. Call 0800 000 290 or visit ryman.co.nz
Opening looms for upgraded courts area on maunga
The upgrade of facilities at the old tennis courts on Takarunga is almost finished.
The Flagstaff understood the project was scheduled to be completed by 12 July, but by press time had not received a response from the Tūpuna Maunga Authority (TMA) regarding official opening plans.
Visiting the site on 2 July, the newspaper found it closely resembled the graphic impressions published in November 2024.
Included are a combined basketball/tennis court (but with no tennis net, as yet), a children’s play area, picnic tables and accessible wharepaku (toilets).
One issue the Flagstaff hoped to hear back from TMA on was whether tennis would be impaired by the placement of fixed poles supporting the basketball backboards. An update will be published in the next issue.
Play ball... The new facilities on Takarunga’s old courts area look very close to completed
From the Museum
Pots recall local links of well-known Coromandel figure
Much has been written over the years about – and by – Ian Barry Brickell OBE.
The late Brickell’s contributions to pottery, ceramics, sculpture, small-gauge railways and conservation are well known.
Brickell was born in New Plymouth on 26 October 1935, and his parents, Maurice and Shirley Brickell, brought the family to Devonport around 1942. Barry attended both Vauxhall School and Takapuna Grammar School. The family lived at 1 Tui Street in Cheltenham.
From 1961 until his death on 23 January 2016, Brickell lived on the Coromandel. He later wrote about his memories of growing up in Devonport and fossicking in the old Duder brickworks.
In 2001, Brickell’s self-published Devonport reminiscences; the old Depot Brickworks, and his time in Devonport further featured in 2017, when Depot Press published A collective memory of Barry Brickell’s Devonport days
His first kiln was said to have been made from Devonport Gasworks bricks, a brick a day.
Devonport Museum has three of his works: a jug and jar were both donated to the museum by Brickell in 2010, while a bowl was donated separately. Brickell confirmed the jug (pictured) was made in 2009 from Coromandel clay and then salt glazed in a woodfired kiln.
He had based the design on medieval English peasant forms, and was inspired by an image in a book written by Bernard Rackham (1876-1964).
Rackham worked as a curator in ceramics at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and wrote extensively on the subject.
A book by Rackham was given to Brickell in the 1950s, when he was still a Takapuna Grammar School student.
He also confirmed the jar was wheel-thrown in Coromandel yellow clay, woodfired and made around 1980.
20 years ago from the Flagstaff files
• Four members of the Devonport Bowling Club playing a game of rummy are confronted by a balaclava-clad intruder who demanded a key to the bar. He ran off with their purse.
• Plans to establish New Zealand’s first writers’ centre at the former signalman’s house on Mt Victoria are moving ahead.
• Fewer than 40 swimmers brave the chilly waters off Windsor Reserve for the Devonport midwinter swim.
• Laurel Belworthy uses old floorboards from a Devonport villa restoration as the basis for an art exhibition at the Depot.
Tide Times
• A farmers market is being set up on Devonport Wharf by Karen Daniel and Francisca Knottenbelt.
• The Small Day Out concert at Ngataringa Park wins a small group projects North Shore City community award.
• Flagstaff interview subject Margot McRae speaks about her first play, Finding Murdoch, and the battle with cancer that led to her becoming a fulltime writer.
• Historian Rod Cornelius looks back on the century during which Devonport administered Rangitoto Island.
courtesy of Amanda Evans
• Phoebe Borwick and Hannah Camplin star in the Takapuna Grammar production of Cabaret
• The Calliope Sea Scouts Hall on King Edward Parade is having a $150,000 upgrade.
• North Shore City Council conducts a review of Devonport Navy base zoning.
• North Shore Rugby premiers beat Glenfield 52-10 to move to fifth on the North Harbour table.
• The Victoria Theatre temporarily closes for several days for council officers to carry out a health and safety assessment.
Shopping that gives back!
Discover a variety of preloved goodies – all profits go directly to animals in need.
Discover a variety of preloved goodies – all profits go directly to animals in need. Discover a variety of prevloved goodies – all profits go directly to animals in need.
Discover a variety of preloved goodies – all profits go directly to animals in need.
Discover a variety of preloved goodies – all profits go directly to animals in need.
SCAN FOR DETAILS Shopping that gives back!
Shopping that gives back!
45 Victoria Rd, Devonport (Monday - Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-5pm)
45 Victoria Rd, Devonport
45 Victoria Rd, Devonport
(Monday - Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-5pm) SCAN FOR DETAILS
SCAN FOR DETAILS Shopping that gives back!
45 Victoria Rd, Devonport
(Monday - Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-5pm)
WONDER
THAI MASSAGE
Supporting over 23 charities each year both home and abroad. Part of Devonport since 1977.
AT THE END OF THE ARCADE
6a Wynyard Street, Devonport
DISCOVER THE ESSENCE OF THAI WELLNESS
45 Victoria Rd, Devonport
(Monday - Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-5pm)
SCAN FOR DETAILS
Mid Day Special
Victoria Rd,
60 minutes — $80 Monday — Thursday 9.30 – 12.00 pm
SCAN FOR DETAILS
(Monday - Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-5pm)
Our Most Popular Treatments
• Thai Relaxation Massage
• Deep Tissue
• Oil Massage
• Aromatherapy
• Foot Reflexology
SCAN FOR DETAILS
• Head, Neck & Should Massage
Wonder Thai Massage
The Arcade, Devonport 6-5/15 Victoria Road, Auckland, NZ 0627
Facebook: Wonder Thai Massage Tel: 022 499 8832
Saturday 9-5pm, 10-5pm)
45 Victoria Rd, Devonport (Monday - Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-5pm)
Arcade Day Spa is a place where beauty, comfort, knowledge and personalised attention combine to create an exceptional and rejuvenating experience.
Phone 021 0616 868
The Arcade, Shop 10 5-15 Victoria Rd, Devonport
Plenty of high points in Lofty’s litany of local pursuits
Community worker Lofty Ned talks to Rob Drent about his journey into advocating for the environment, and his involvement in salsa and an early musical foray for Lorde.
Settled... Raised in Point Chevalier, Lofty Ned felt immediately at home on arriving in Devonport 25 years ago
Twenty-five years after moving to Devonport, Lofty Ned can still remember his feelings when he arrived.
He’d come to work for Chris Moriaty of Fabulous Functions and started living in Anne St.
“Something felt different to me, felt right to me, I’ve always felt at home here – and it
still does,” he says. “I’m a Devonport local.”
Ned grew up in Point Chevalier, attending St Francis Catholic School then Avondale College.
“Lofty” originated from his real name, Teitei – meaning high, which was given by his grandmother, Parehuia Tauawhare.
“I think my grandparents had high aspira-
tions for me.” The name Lofty stuck instead. Ned’s parents came to Auckland in the 1950s, part of the urban drift of the time. His mother Victoria was from the Urewera and dad George from the Kawhia district.
Life changed with the death of his father when Lofty was aged 16. He was the eldest child in a large family who needed to be
provided for.
Ned was already “a bit of a rascal” – in reality probably just a typical teenage, drinking and smoking, but he felt the added pressure to provide for his family after his father died.
Leaving school, he did labouring jobs but also enjoyed sport: soccer, softball and rugby league, which gave him his first taste of Devonport peninsula life when he played outside centre or wing for Bayswater-based North Shore Albions for a season in the 1990s.
It was through gym training for league that Ned became interested in, then passionate about, body sculpting, entering competitions.
He managed to fit in music as well, as lead singer and guitarist with the Bastard Squad, a West Auckland metal band.
“We played all over Auckland – went in Battle of the Bands. It was great fun.”
They played originals and covers of bands like Metallica, Slayer and Pantera. Ned’s father had been in a family band and guitars and music were always around the home. “I was bought up a Catholic and sang in church. I loved it.”
At one stage he was training for rugby league twice a week and playing on Saturday, while also performing two or three gigs a week with the Bastard Squad. “Rugby league had to go.”
Remembering a school talent for writing, Ned launched into a degree in communications at Unitec, followed by a post graduate diploma in multimedia at AUT.
In Devonport, Ned joined Devonport Gym in Clarence House, which was then run by Rod and Bev Enoka. “I literally badgered Rod for a job. He said, ‘can you paint?’”
Ned did some painting work for gym renovations, then became a personal trainer and eventually managed the gym. He was also handling events, communications and promotions.
He had a slot on The Flea radio station with Mike Baker, would often write a healthy habits column for the Devonport Flagstaff for Bev and Rod, and organised themed event nights.
“It was all about community... it’s also a Māori thing to take care of people.”
At the same time, salsa dancing became a passion. Ned danced and became a tutor, launching classes at the Devonport Community House and at Westlake Girls.
During his time at the Devonport gym, Ned launched Dance in the Park in 2002, a concert typically featuring school performers and local bands which followed on from the Devonport Santa Parade. He is still organising the event 25 years later.
Ella Yelich-O’Connor – later to become Lorde – appeared on stage around 2009 “as a little kid” after Ned added her band to the bill when she won Belmont Intermediate School’s “idol” music contest. The four-song set was classic rock – “Ozzie Osbourne type stuff” – which was the style their teacher enjoyed, Ned recalls.
“It was so loud they lost a lot of the crowd,” he says. “The music wasn’t everyone’s taste.”
Little did the crowd know a future international star was performing for them.
“I love inspiring the next generation, youth, into opportunities,” Ned says.
Most of them wouldn’t have had a clue he himself played in bands back in the day.
Another Ned project was the Devonport Top Street competition, which ran for three years, along the lines of the 1970s Top Town show.
Rod Enoka became a major mentor for Ned. Enoka also famously trained Temuera Morrison for his role as Jake the Mus in 1994’s Once Were Warriors. Ben Mitchell, who became a Shortland Street star, was also a trainer at the gym. Tem and Ben encouraged Ned to pursue acting, leading to theatre roles.
Enoka left the gym to take up the New Zealand franchise for Miltek, a company aimed at reducing and recycling packaging.
“I love inspiring the next generation, youth, into opportunities.”
Ned came on board working on content production, business testimonials, marketing and communications, social media.
The role “introduced me to my environmental side”.
His work with Miltek springboarded Ned into part-time roles as an environment advisor at Auckland Council, Pupuke Birdsong and Pest Free Kaipatiki, while also keeping his personal training hand in at Hillside Fitness community gym.
He even stood unsuccessfully for the Kaipataki Local Board at the 2025 local body elections. “I was working as a Kaipataki community development coordinator working with residents... I didn’t live in Kaipataki.
“I spent $500 on my campaign – playing guitar and singing on the street corner. I got just shy of 3000 votes, which surprised me, I did not come at the bottom.”
In recent times Ned describes himself as a consultant – including work for Toi Ora Live Art Trust under the umbrella of the Lake House and the Active Living Group.
He’s also part of the team organising the Matariki Cultural Festival at the Rawene Centre in Birkenhead.
Last Friday he was part of a waiata singalong held at the Patriot pub in Devonport. And he has co-ordinated a Monday salsa night at the Patriot: a beginners’ class followed by social dancing. “It’s for the community to have fun and a dance.”
And although it’s only July, he will soon, once again, be organising the annual Dance in the Park.
WHAT’S ON @ Devonport Library
Mānawatia a Matariki
Catch a star or the sun, cook and eat well, read a romance and sing. It’s all here! MAKE A SUNCATCHER
Thurs 16 July 10am-11am
A craft event for tamariki.
PEELS, PULP AND STEMS
Sunday 19th July 10:30-12 noon
A hands-on workshop by Compost Collective. Tips, tricks and recipes.
NICK THOMSON FROM MARROW
Tuesday 28th July 6:30pm-8:30pm
Talking about his new recipe book, his whole animal eating philosophy and being in Devonport. Doors open 6:30pm. Speakers 7pm. DLA event. All welcome. Koha appreciated.
CONSULTATION
Friday 31st July 10am-2pm
Drop in to feedback on the DevonportTakapuna Local Parks Management Plan. Key focus areas include climate resilience, biodiversity, park access & recreational use.
MATARIKI STORYTIME
Friday 31st July 10am-2pm With Matua Tameana.
A starry story for all ages and a singalong of waiata and games to follow.
MĀORI FRYBREAD WORKSHOP
Sunday 2nd August 2pm-3:00pm
Try it hot with butter and golden syrup. Then create your own fresh dough together to fry at home. Bring a bowl and a clean tea-towel to carry it home.
SCAM AWARENESS
Wed 5th August 12:30pm-1:30pm
A free Netsafe-run session. MICROGREENS
Sunday 9th August 10:30am-12noon Adults workshop by Compost Collective. JANET NOVEMBER
Sunday 9th August 2pm-4pm
Book launch of Heir to a Family Business Ma Te Wa
Holiday activities a hit with kids and grandparents
Participants turned out in force for Devonport Library’s school-holiday activities, jumping at the opportunity to weave a fish, design a felt crown or decorate a tote bag. Children’s Librarian Rani Marsh-Fenton says 30-50 school holidayers turned out for each activity, with two sessions required for most.
Fun for all... (clockwise from above left) Isla Rive, who designed a Princess-Cat tote bag; Madison and Arty Stewart, who made felt crowns; Samuel Solaka (foreground) with Grandfather Alan Nanson, and Clara Graham (5) with Hannah Gerrard; Matilda Hinchco with her tote bag; and Sam Cooper, pausing work for the Flagstaff camera.
CUSTOM KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, AND CABINETRY TO FIT YOUR VISION
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
Senior night of glamour at school ball
Takapuna Grammar School’s Year 12 and 13 students rounded out Term 2 with their Senior Ball, on the final day of school. Students arrived in formal attire and spent the evening on the dance floor, making the most of the chance to celebrate together. Two photo backdrops proved popular, with friends, teammates and club groups lining up for pictures throughout the night.
Year 13 students Aorangi Hall and Nelli Bonetti were crowned King and Queen of the Ball, while Emilia Pearce and Reuben Faletutulu in Year 12 received the titles of Princess and Prince.
The event ran smoothly and was well‑attended, providing a fitting end to the term for senior students.
TGS Open Evening to highlight learning and school history
Takapuna Grammar School is opening its doors to prospective families, offering a close look at classroom learning, specialist facilities and the subjects available across the school.
The annual event begins with an address from Principal Mary Nixon, followed by a performance from the award‑winning TGS Chorale, before visitors head out on guided tours with prefects of key learning areas.
Students will see science in action in our refurbished science block and get to have a go at some fun fitness activities in PE and Sports Institute. They will see first‑hand some of the
learning options on offer including demonstrations in Technology such as laser cutting and 3D printing. Families will have a behind‑the‑scenes look at
recent developments including the new upgraded school pool.
Staff across Health & PE, Te Toi Tangata, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, the Arts, Technology and Languages will be available to answer questions and outline course pathways.
Visitors can also explore the Tower Room, now featuring historic photographs and memorabilia as part of preparations for the school’s 2027 Centenary.
TGS Open Evening: Thursday 23 July sessions at 4.00pm and 5.30pm
TGS Hockey Alumni Games continue annual tradition
Takapuna Grammar School’s Hockey Alumni Games returned this month, continuing an annual fixture that has been running since 2017. This year saw two full alumni teams of around 18 players each take the field against the school’s Premier 1st XI boys’ and girls’ sides.
Most alumni players were recent leavers from the past five years, giving the matches a competitive edge. Organiser Sylvia Breen said it was great to see former students back in TGS colours and sharing the turf with current Premier players.
“Most of the current TGS players knew the Alumni players so it was extra special and very competitive,” Sylvia said.
The alumni teams showed plenty of skill, taking both matches: Girls Alumni v 1st XI Girls 3–1 and Boys Alumni v 1st XI Boys 7–2.
The evening was well attended with players and spectators sharing food after the games and a surprise appearance from school mascot Roary the Lion.
• 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
John Bisset LtD
Painting & Decorating Specialists
Serving Auckland for over 35 years Master Painter of the Year 2017
Interior and Exterior – New and existing, roofs, fences, decks and balustrading, wallpaper stripping, paint stripping, gib stopping, pressure cleaning. Accredited Lead-based Removal Specialists.
Office: 445 8099
email: info@bissetltd.co.nz www.bissetltd.co.nz
Andrew Holloway Floorsander
• Floorsanding
• Floorsanding
• Polyurethaning and staining
• Polyurethaning and staining
• Tongue and Groove repairs
• Tongue and Groove repairs
• Serving Devonport since 1995
• Serving Devonport since 1995
Please phone for a free quote Phone 027 285 4519
Please phone for a free quote Phone 027 285 4519
ahfloorsanding@xtra.co.nz
ahfloorsanding@xtra.co.nz www.ahfloorsanding.co.nz
Plumbing, Gasfitting, Drainage, Roof Leaks
MAINTENANCE SPECIALISTS
Prompt courteous service
Fully insured for your peace of mind
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
CASH FOR STORAGE UNITS & ESTATES
Before you pay for another month of storage or hassle with auctions, let us handle it.
We Buy Complete Contents: Outright lump-sum payments.
Specialist Buyers: Vintage jewellery, sterling silver, antiques, and electronics.
Total Exit Solution:
100% cleared and swept clean within 48 hours. Local & Licensed: Respectful, professional service for Auckland families. Call for a free, confidential assessment. 021 08 77 48 59
Petanque club hosts
NZ doubles
Stanley Bay Petanque Club will host the New Zealand national doubles championships on 7 and 8 November. Club captain Simon Bucherer said: “This is a major milestone for the club to be given the opportunity to host such a significant event.”
Upgrades at the club meant it now met the standards required to host a national event.
Around 60 players are expected to take part, and spectators are welcome.
FLAT 1 Bedroom Devonport. Close to beaches and the ferry. Furnished, with sunny garden, $365pw. Ph 445 3060, ph/text 027 545 3060.
OFFICE TO LEASE
Office to Lease. This bright, modern 15 m2 office, suitable for 1 or 2 people is available now and is located in the heart of Devonport village. Paying too much for petrol and/or sick of the noise at home, then this office is for you. Phone owner to arrange viewing on 021 498390.
PUPPIES FOR REHOMING
Our sweet Free male and female AKC registered Yorkshire Terrier puppies are ready to be rehomed. They are playful, affectionate, and will make wonderful companions, if interested contact : malyschristine65@gmail.com
SERVICES OFFERED
All Sash Cord Window Repairs . From new cords to full renovation . Quality work . Ph Steve 022 6159706
WHAT'S HAPPENING
Term Three kicks off on Monday 20th July and we are looking forward to having you back through our doors.
We have a wide range of activities, including free community events and workshops, so be sure to check out our latest timetable at devonportcomhouse.com.
UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS AT THE HOUSE
CARERS & CHATS
Thursday 23 July, 12pm
Join us for monthly speakers, or simply come along for a cuppa, a chat, and a catch-up with other carers in our community.
Find out what support is available. Supported by Dementia Auckland.
FREE For bookings or more information, contact: rixt@devonportcomhouse.co.nz
MATARIKI HĀNGĪ
Sunday 19 July, 6pm
Spend Sunday evening sharing hāngī, kōrero and community. Bookings essential through our website.
WORK WITH US Holiday Programme Manager
We are looking for a new Holiday Programme Manager. Are you energetic, organised, and love working with children? Or know someone who is?
Then apply today!
All details are on our website under the Work with Us tab.
Early-morning karakia launches
Ten artists have contributed to Te Waka o Rangi at the Depot Artspace, an exhibition inspired by Puanga-Matariki.
Four of them – Ngahiwi Walker, Natanahira Te Pona, Anthony (Tony) Ante Pecotic Vidilo and Steven Bourke – are local to the Devonport-Takapuna area.
After a karakia at the gallery at 6.30am last Saturday, around 200 people attended an afternoon opening, which included kōrero and musical performances.
Depot Artspace gallery manager Katie Richeboeuf says the exhibition is a collaborative event, put on with the support of several other Devonport organisations – in-
Saturday 22 August
cluding Peter Raos Gallery, which provided display cabinets. The exhibition runs until 15 August and includes workshops with some of the artists.
Harakeke weaving will be showcased on Saturday 18 July with Tony Pecotic. An opportunity to learn about the art of whakairo (wood carving) will be presented by Mike Raven on 25 July. Bookings required, with more information at depot.org.nz.
• Two other upcoming Depot events: Jessica Pearless Paintress: 22 August-3 October. Pearless, a Devonport artist and Takapuna Grammar School (TGS) alum, will exhibit both garments and paintings in
Time to have fun! PRESENTER Liv Tennet
Bruce Mason Centre
Local figure... Carver Ngahiwi Walker is among artists involved in Te Waka o Rangi at the Depot
joint exhibition inspired by Puanga Matariki
Many hands... Artists at the opening (from
her upcoming show, also featuring work by TGS textile design students.
Alchemy: 27 August opening event, 29 August open studios 11am-3pm, at D3 Gallery, 3 Victoria Rd. A group show with eight Devonport-based contributing artists, that looks at their varied artistic practices as alchemical processes of transforming materials – with a special focus on minerals and metals.
SHADOWS OF
SHOWING NOW
The Odyssey (M) 172min
Islands (M) 123min
The Richest Woman in the World (M) 121min
Moana (PG) - 2D & 3D 115min
The Invite (R16) 107min
Lollipop (M) 100min
Minions and Monsters (PG) 90min
Supergirl (M) 108min
The Death of Robin Hood (R16) 122min
Re-Creation (M)
Toy Story 5 (G)
Disclosure
SPECIAL
Mischief
left) Garth Ward, Terence Hibbert, Natanahira Te Pona, Shaun Tiria, Jadyn Flavell, Mike Raven, Timata Mata’u and Anthony Ante Pecotic Vidilo. All apart from Flavell have work in the show.
Devonport character, charm and lifestyle
Nestled in one of Stanley Bay's quiet, family-friendly streets, this nicely renovated 1920s bungalow combines timeless character with modern comfort on its own freehold title. Filled with warmth and charm, the home offers generous open-plan living, where the lounge, dining, kitchen and family room flow effortlessly to a sunny elevated deck. You will enjoy an enviable lifestyle here where your children can walk to school and all amenities are close by. You must see this soon. bayleys.co.nz/1470837
3 2 1 1
Auction (unless sold prior) 2pm, Wed 5 Aug 2026
Bayleys House, 30 Gaunt Street, Auckland
Central
View Sat/Sun 1.15-1.45pm
Lynda Betts 021 278 3024 lynda.betts@bayleys.co.nz