Issuu

devonportflagstaff.co.nz

September 25, 2026

Teen victim robbed again in Belmont... p2

Shore United women win championship... p5

Interview: Father Neil Darragh... p24-25

Council ‘should join’ legal action against 8-storey plan

North Shore councillor John Gillon wants Auckland Council to join Devonport Heritage’s bid for a judicial review of Peninsula Capital’s fast-tracked village development of up to eight storeys. Devonport Heritage last week lodged documents in the High Court at Wellington, seeking the review and questioning whether Peninsula Capital’s application

was a regionally or nationally significant project, prerequisites for fast-tracking. “I support Auckland Council joining Devonport Heritage’s judicial review [application], and I have sought advice on whether it is able to,” Gillon said. “Joining the review would be consistent with council’s position opposing the development.

“The Devonport Lanes project does not stack up as a regionally or nationally significant project, and is in clear breach of long-established height rules for the site. It should never have been referred into the fast-track process by the minister and that decision needs reviewing.” Gillon congratulated Devonport Heritage To page 11

Spring smiles and snarlers

Fair’s fare... Alex Morrow and Oliver Hutchinson (2) at Vauxhall School’s Springtopia carnival last Sunday. Around 600 people attended on a blustery spring day. More pictures pages 8 and 9.

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 2

Depot plans fundraiser after ‘scary’ cuts Club Corner

OU WE NEED Y S EED U AND YOU N Recent Events and Involvement

• Work on pump track • Stanley Bay School Mud Run • Business on Toast Breakfast at the Stone Oven (Last speaker Bruce Gorley) • Rotary Youth Leadership Awards - our nominee and recent speaker Renee

Upcoming Events & Involvement Business on Toast Breakfast 16 October, Stone Oven Speaker (To be advised), Contact: Roy on 0274867002 Homes of Devonport 15 November Assistance required - contact Lynda Betts on 0212783024 Rotary Grants to assist our community, if you or your Club have a project needing assistance and funding - contact Anil on 0272554376 (Close off for applications 30 September)

Rotary Christmas Pudding Sales We need help with sales and distribution - contact Roy on 0274867002 Rotary Fundraising Lunch March 2027 with guest speaker - contact Paul on 021 2900 665 if interested in attending If you wish to be involved and help your community, why not consider joining or assisting Rotary, a very casual and friendly group contact Anil on 0272554376

EMAIL: devonportrotary11@gmail.com OR VISIT www.devonportrotary.co.nz

NEXT MONTH: Who we are and what we do

Knocked by successive funding shocks, the Depot arts hub is putting on a 30th anniversary fundraising exhibition in November. “We are trying to create something positive out of the very negative funding environment at the moment,” director Amy Saunders told the Flagstaff. “We have loads of local artists taking part and some fun, well-known locals involved too.” Just a month after the Depot learned it had missed out on anticipated funding from Creative New Zealand, Devonport-Takapuna Local Board funding cuts were announced.

The board is a significant funder of community organisations such as the Depot, Rose Centre and Devonport Community House. Saunders described the cuts as “crazy and scary”. She said the Depot was still working through its future model of operation. More information on the fundraising exhibition will be revealed in upcoming issues of the Flagstaff. “We have been bowled over with support from artists and have more than 130 on board,” Saunders said.

Takapuna victim robbed again in Belmont A teenager assaulted in Takapuna in August was again a victim in an aggravated robbery in Belmont this month, both incidents allegedly involving the same offender. Waitematā East area police commander Inspector Aron McKeown said charges had been laid against two 14-year-old females regarding the first incident and one them in relation to the second. In total, four youths aged 14-16 have been referred to Youth Aid as a result of the police’s Operation Jacaranda, launched after the August assault in Takapuna. Of the Belmont incident on 13 September, McKeown said, “Unfortunately, this offending has involved the same victim and offender as the initial incident in August, for which an arrest had already been made.”

He said the offender arrested has been remanded in custody and charged with aggravated robbery, with further charges pending. The second offender involved in the Takapuna assault has been charged with aggravated robbery, two counts of assault with intent to injure, shoplifting and taking/using a document dishonestly. She will appear in North Shore Youth Court on 30 September. Police are continuing to make enquiries into the Belmont incident, and are trying to locate a second offender involved. Police have recovered and returned the victim’s watch, which was allegedly stolen. “It is understandably distressing for the victim to have encountered one of the alleged offenders on two occasions,” McKeown said.

Support your paper for the price of a cup of coffee. Go to devonportflagstaff.co.nz and click on ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of the page.

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 Senior News Reporter: 2025 Best Sports Reporter: 2024, 2016 Best Lifestyle/Feature Writer: 2024, 2023 NEW ZEALAND MEDIA AWARDS Community Reporter of the Year: Winner 2018 Community Newspaper of the Year: Finalist 2025

MANAGING EDITOR: Rob Drent REPORTERS: Alisha McLennan Maria Teape ADVERTISING: Candice Izzard DESIGN: Brendon De Suza Information in the Devonport Flagstaff is copyright and cannot be published or broadcast without the permission of Devonport Publishing Ltd.

NEXT ISSUE: October 9 ADVERTISING DEADLINE: October 2

09 445 9800

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 3

Teen entrepreneurs surf a wave of demand before uni A group of Year 13 Takapuna Grammar School students who started a labouring business to fund surfing trips, festival tickets and university studies, have completed more than 250 jobs in their first year of operation. The idea was hatched by Finn Norris (18) in September last year when he found himself doing some “dump runs” for his father Craig, often enlisting the help of friend Aksel Hopkins (17). “We realised there might be a gap in the market,” Finn said. “People don’t want to pay a builder $50 an hour for a simple job that we could do.” The team built to a total of seven boys, all friends from TGS. Devonport Labour offers garden work and restoration, dump runs, junk removals and property cleanups to get a house and outdoors ready for going on the market. They cover from Devonport up to Hauraki. Aksel said this wasn’t his and Finn’s first attempt at an entrepreneurial idea. “We tried selling stuff, tried starting an online business.” They had some clear incentives. “Last year we wanted to have enough money to go on surf trips, trips around the country and go to festivals. It’s the same this year, with extra motivation to save for uni.” The boys have already enjoyed the fruits of their labour, such as a trip to the Coro Classic music festival on the Coromandel and a 10-day surfing trip up north. Both want to study at Otago next year, continuing their business interests with Finn looking into psychology and business majors and Aksel focusing on marketing. “Otago has some of the best surf in the country, and is a couple hours’ drive from all the ski trips. Our friend group’s all into skiing, snow sports and surfing so there’s Filling a gap... Teenage work gang (from left) Vincent Wright, Aksel Hopkins, Josh Scott, Luke Wilson and Finn Norris. Liam Harvey, Quinn Lampen and nowhere better for us,” Finn said. George Gaskin are also involved.

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 4

$24/month for unlimited deliveries $80 minimum spend • Cancel anytime

Free for the first 30 days Monday - Sunday 9.30am-11.30am 12.30pm-2.30pm

Monday - Sunday 9.30am-11.30am 12.30pm-2.30pm 2.45pm-4.45pm 5.15pm-7.15pm

Monday - Sunday 7.30am-8.30am 9am-11am 12pm-2pm 2.30pm-4.30pm 5.30pm-7.30pm 7.30pm-8.30pm

Available for Club+ members at participating stores and eligible delivery areas only. Express Delivery excluded. After the free trial, the subscription automatically renews every 30 days, and the subscription fee will be charged. Visit newworld.co.nz for full T&Cs.

FS33260_NWNI Devonport_2026_Deliver Pass POS Sept_A0,1,3P v2.indd 4

02/09/2026 10:03 AM

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 5

Shore United women win northern championship

Champions... top row from left: Anna Madsen, Eva Steckler, Leila Ison, Bridget Janes, Sophie Morrison, Steph Beattie, Melissa Everett, Miah Somerton, Niaya Powley, Sami Heimer and Helena O’Connor. Bottom row from left: Tiriarangi Mastny, Julia Bennett, Brie Anderson, Annabel Read and Madeline Hill North Shore United’s top women’s football side won the Northern Regional first division last weekend, defeating East Coast Bays 4-0 at Allen Hill stadium in their final match. Shore was 1-0 up at half time and came out firing in the second half scoring two quick goals. Player of the day was Annabel Read, who was a constant threat and scored the first goal. The side’s season included 14 victories, two draws and just two losses. They scored 54 goals with only 13 against. Sami Heimer was top goal scorer with 11 goals, closely followed by Eva Steckler

who scored 10. However, the run-in to the championship win was close, with Ellerslie Rebels finishing only three points back. On 15 September, North Shore drew 1-1 with Greenhithe and a day later Ellerslie beat Uni-Mount Bohemian 2-1 to set up a thrilling final weekend. While North Shore beat East Coast Bays, Ellerslie drew with Puhoi 2-2. It is the second season in a row that the team has won a championship, Last year it won the second division and promotion, With the division one win it will be promoted to the top tier, league one.

THE ONLY SKIP BIN SERVICE RUN NOT FOR PROFIT. FOR THE COMMUNITY. BOOK ONLINE www.devonportcycle.co.nz We rt so hand skip... every cycle To re re! mo

OPEN 7 DAYS RECYCLING GARDEN & GENERAL WASTE TRAILER HIRE OPEN: WED - SUN

Coach Joe Hughes said: “I am immensely proud of this team. Winning back-to-back promotions takes incredible commitment, and securing the league title is no less than they deserve. “Every single week, they gave everything individually and for each other. “They’re a fantastic group to coach, and I can’t wait to go again with them next season,” Hughes said.

FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE NEEDS ‘You want that project done before Christmas ’ …give us a call

Brett 027 475 3344 Jackson 027 479 6218 office@bge.co.nz www.bge.co.nz

bge_landscapes

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 6

Local funding-cut numbers ‘feel like a a smokescreen’ Council officials are under fire for seeming to obscure the negative effect of a new “fairer funding” model on the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board area. “It feels like the finance department is trying to put a smokescreen over the true impact on the local board,” board member Terence Harpur said at an extraordinary board meeting last week. Auckland Council’s proposed model, under which the board budget would be cut by up to $1.5 million, has been vehemently opposed by the board members. The board has asked that another formula be investigated, with the amount paid in local rates given a weighting of at least 25 per cent. At the meeting the board was presented with a table outlining an alternative “net impact” on each board, showing Devonport-Takapuna would lose $800,000 rather than the previously estimated $1.5 million. However board lead financial advisor Sugenthy Thomson said the $800,000 did not factor in the current local work programme.

She had based her loss figure of $1.5 million on this year’s budget, and added that she knew more about how the board operates than the council’s finance department. Harpur said the figures not lining up made the situation unclear. Board member George Wood agreed. “We are supposed to make decisions based on facts. It seems like the facts are moving.” In feedback, the board told council that the proposed budget cut would have a “significant, and unacceptable impact on our community”. It said longstanding community organisations would be at risk of losing funding including: • Devonport Museum • The Rose Centre • Michael King Writers Centre • The Depot • Devonport Community House It would also potentially mean the board would be unable to support existing environmental groups such as Restoring Takarunga Hauraki and the Devonport Business Association. The board asked that if the fairer funding proposal went ahead, the transition should be funded by council, rather than by cuts to local boards.

It also asked for park maintenance costs to be regionalised if the proposal goes ahead, as the board had “very limited control or oversight” of the related budget. They asked that the board continue to be involved regarding upgrades and changes to the Takapuna pool. The board asked for a hike to the proposed $21 million per annum Local Board Transport Capital Fund and said the $36 million allocated to a Community Initiated Programme was a “bare minimum”. Both amounts are shared across 21 local boards. The local board also noted that daytime populations that contribute to the congestion on Lake Rd are not reflected by resident population alone, therefore population was not an accurate way to split the transport budget across the local boards. Chair Trish Deans was disappointed that heritage assets had not been factored into the proposed model. The board said the amount of funding Devonport-Takapuna would receive was disproportionate to the amount of rates the area paid to council, particularly in the transport proposal. The board supported keeping the status quo until the proposals had been reviewed.

Spotlight put on community-grants process as council seeks value for money A review of Auckland Council’s community grants policy will investigate the effectiveness of both regional and local board grants. The council is seeking ways “to improve processes, impact and value for money”. The Devonport-Takapuna Local Board was asked for feedback on how the current policy, adopted in 2014, was being implemented. It has supported the review, noted com-

munity frustrations around the low-value grants’ accountability process and suggested making the system easier for community groups and first-time applicants. Auckland Council is undertaking an online survey of previous applicants as part of the review. It will run from this month until November, with findings revealed from March next year.

Villas available now

Thirteen freestanding villas one street back from Torpedo Bay, family-owned for forty years. Call Judy on 027 488 4873 · 46 King Edward Parade · devonportretirementvillage.co.nz

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 7

The kindy teacher on her feet Lisa spends her working day with three, four and five year olds, and none of it happens sitting down. “We’re constantly on the move. You can’t sit down and do lovely little group work, because something else will be going on over the other side of the room or outside in the playground. You have to constantly be on your feet, moving all day.” Would she swap it though? Not at all. “I love the passion that the children bring to my job. Each day is so different, and to watch them grow and develop is just something else.” The one downside, she says, is the workout the job gives your body. Constantly moving, crouching down and standing up again, picking up a child who has gone over. Over the years it caught up with her knees. “I’m on my feet, so I just found that my knees were aching, and it affected the way I walk.” That last part was the bit that bothered her. Not the end of the day so much as the way she was getting around during it. She had been told she was too young for the bigger options, and that was not a door she wanted to open anyway. Lisa knew what sort of something she wanted instead. “I’m very much into using natural products.” She had worked through the general run of supplements from the health shop, and oils she used on her knees. Nothing quite hit the spot. Then one weekend she sat down with the local paper and read an article rather like this one: someone’s story about a New Zealand made joint supplement called Koru Joint. It was all natural, and it was made and owned from here. Her attitude to anything new is simple. “Whenever I see anything new, I’m like, yep, I’ll give it a go, because you never know until you try it.” Koru Joint is a 3-in-1 formula, made in Rangiora, and it works three ways at once. Curcumin and boswellia, both rich in antioxidants, soothe the joint and support flexibility. Vitamin C and glucosamine nourish the cartilage. Chondroitin and hyaluronic acid support the synovial fluid that keeps a joint moving smoothly. The difference showed up in the ordinary business of a kindy day. Down on the mat and back up again. Out to the sandpit. A child scooped up mid howl and set back on their feet. “When I consistently use the product, I find it makes my day more manageable.”

Her proof arrived by accident. She ran out, and it was about three weeks before she got round to reordering. Her body told her it was missing the support it had got used to. She has not let the bottle run empty since. Now she is the one planting the seed. Anyone at work who mentions their joints or their knees gets the same answer: there is an all natural option, you should give it a go. “Then it’s up to people whether they want to go down that path or not. But at least you plant the seed.” Asked whether her story could go in the paper, she did not hesitate. “Yeah, why not? I’ll become famous.”

Always read the label and take as directed. If symptoms persist contact your healthcare professional. Koru Nutrition, Christchurch

SAVE 43%

Get 2 Bottles for $79.98 Avaliable in all good community pharmacies www.korunutrition.co.nz

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 8

September 25, 2026

Season’s greetings! Springtopia brings fun of the fair

Sprinb topia

Spring colour…parents Simone Balle (left) and Lexy Bate with two of the foam clay creations on display at Vauxhall School for the Springtopia fair Below: Mila Gladwell (11), Sophie Buchanan (12) and Violet Evetts-Perry (11) put in a shift at the fairy dress-up cottage, while long-time Vauxhall teacher Nicky Poor dressed up as a bouquet of flowers

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 9

Sweet as… Una Kirkcaldy, left, and Bella Lay (both 7) were among those trying to guess how many lollies were in the jar at Vauxhall School’s Springtopia

Hooping for the best… Riley Varney (9) takes aim Right: Werner and Emma (4) Pretorius after a visit to the face painters; Josh Dykes won a baking prize for his compost cake.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 10

September 25, 2026

BIS cross-country team stars at Aims Games A dramatic sprint victory in the 12km cross-country relay was among the highlights for Belmont Intermediate School at the AIMS Games in Tauranga this month. After the first three of 12 laps, Belmont was back in fifth place, but their runners clawed their way through the field and launched a spectacular comeback to take the win right at the line. They clocked 41 mins 20.95 secs, just 2.45 secs ahead of Newlands Intermediate from Wellington. BIS communications coordinator Charlie Vorster said all six of the school’s teams placed in the top 10, with the first place in cross-country, a second in hip-hop and a third in girls’ football. In the cross-country, Bonnie Robinson came third in the Year 8 girls’ race, and the Year 7 boys’ team of Nixon Thompson, Cole Blincoe and Aucktons Sudsang came second. In individual sports, Jayden Zhang was first in squash and Margaux Sumner-Brown first in the 200m backstroke. Margaux was also third in the 100m backstroke, 200m freestyle and both the 100m and 200m individual medleys, and placed third overall in the 12-year-old girls’ category. Marlin Zhang was third in the 100m butterfly, while James Garnham finished second in year 7 sailing. Their aim was true... (clockwise from right) The winning BIS cross-country team (Jura Fletcher-McGreevy, Bonnie Robinson, Summer McKnight, Nixon Thompson, Vincent Dahlberg, Wolf Schroder, Harry Cockayne, Frank Cockayne, Aucktons Sudsang and Tom Congdon); sailor James Garnham, who won silver; winning squash player Jayden Zhang; and swimmer Margaux Sumner-Brown, who won a gold among her five medals.

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 11

‘Unlawful’ referral should be quashed, legal bid claims Peninsula Capital’s fast-track proposal for its Devonport Lanes development of up to eight storeys in the village should be thrown out, says Devonport Heritage’s statement of claim for judicial review filed in the High Court. The Minister for Infrastructure is named as the first respondent and Devonport Property Management as the second respondent. The claim says the process by which the decision was made to refer Peninsula Capital’s application for fast-tracking was unlawful and therefore should be set aside and quashed. The statement of claim outlines various grounds: • That the minister failed to collect or consider information that would provide evidence that the project would have significant regional benefits,

• Not all the criteria of the fast-tracking process were met. • Adverse effects such as potential flood plains and impacts on historic heritage were not considered, “despite the minister acknowledging that further information was available on these issues”. • That by failing to include Devonport Heritage in the process, it was deprived of natural justice. • That the minister acted “unreasonably and irrationally when making the decision”. Alan Webb KC is acting for Devonport Heritage. The application was filed in the High Court at Wellington last week and served on the minister last Friday. A hearing date has yet to be determined, but Devonport Heritage hopes it will be early next year.

Heritage fighting fund close to $33K Devonport Heritage’s war chest to fund a legal challenge against Peninsula Capital’s fast-tracking proposal contained close to $33,000 by the start of this week. Since news of the fast-track proposal broke in mid-July it had accumulated $28,000 in donations, Devonport Heritage chair Margot McRae said. A Givealittle campaign had raised $4792. The heritage group had enough to pay for the first tranche of legal proceedings and aimed to raise $70,000 through the Givealittle campaign. Ballpark figures for judicial reviews range from $65,000 to $100,000 but Devonport Heritage hoped its costs would land at the lower end.

Council would ‘almost certainly lose’ legal case – Hills From page 1 on seeking the review. North Shore’s other councillor, Richard Hills, was more circumspect in his reaction, waiting for advice from staff on what he could publicly say as chair of council’s planning committee “in this new fast-track world”. Although council opposed the fast-track legislation, especially for residential development, the high-level advice he was receiving was that the levels of discretion a minister had to refer a project were extremely high. “Council would be wasting ratepayer funds on a case we’d almost certainly lose. This is why we’ve not taken legal action on any referrals.” Even the two fast-track cases council was appealing – the Sunfield

and Delmore developments – followed their approval. “Staff take careful consideration on where they believe we can appeal on rules of law,” Hills said The fast-track legislation has made rights to appeal far narrower than any type of resource consent or plan change. [Sunfield and Delmore] were on rural land where council had no plans for housing any time soon and “could cost current and future ratepayers up to a billion dollars of infrastructure and operating costs,” Hills said. On the Devonport Lanes proposal, Auckland Council gave feedback that it could have positive outcomes such as the regeneration of the Devonport village and restoration and upgrades for heritage buildings. But it had concerns including whether regional economic impact had been demonstrated, the effect on views of Takarunga and heritage, height and traffic impacts during construction.

Support your paper for the price of a cup of coffee. Go to devonportflagstaff.co.nz and click on ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of the page.

Shop online - www.mikkoshoes.nz

MILFORD

121 Kitchener Road

09 972 2354

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 12

LINDA SIMMONS

SO HAPPY TO SPONSOR STANLEY BAY SCHOOL

Another great community day at the annual Stanley Bay School Mud Run. Thank you to the teachers and parents who make this event possible. Everyone had so much fun.

Linda Simmons FOR MARKETING THAT SELLS

BAYLEYS DEVONPORT 2025/2026

BAYLEYS NORTH SHORE 2025/2026

027 459 0957

linda.simmons@bayleys.co.nz

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

A LT O G E T H E R B E T T E R

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 13

Mudlark principal sets the standard at fundraiser

Making a splash… Stanley Bay School acting principal Helen Pelham braved the slide at the school’s recent mud run, a real family affair enjoyed by children and their families (below).

Several hundred children, parents and even grandparents took part in Stanley Bay School’s mud run. Story, more photos, pages 14-15.

Nelson & Susan Elliott

• Funeral Planning For The Future • Full Church & Chapel Funerals • Or Venue Of Your Choice... Devonport Yacht Club Wakatere Boating Club

‘exceptional care and compassion’ 09 486 2631 027 486 2050 www.northshorefunerals.co.nz

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 14

Much-anticipated challenge proves good clean fun Flagstaff editor Rob Drent took his grandson on the Stanley Bay School Mud Run. “Those firemen are scary.” That was my fouryear-old grandson Nino’s first comment after arriving at Stanley Bay School’s Mud Run. Entirely accurate, I thought, as we watched Devonport’s finest using their high-pressure hose to bowl over mud runners as they crossed the finishing line. The most powerful blasts were saved for keen young dads on the finishing straight. Keen young mums weren’t spared, either. Internal musing: “How will a 63-year-old grandfather fare?” The mud run build up started several days before, with my Titirangi-based whanau checking out previous Mud Run photos online. Nino was “dead keen” to give it a go. So much so that when I picked him up on Saturday afternoon, I was greeted by “when does the mud run start?” Eighteen hours must seem like an enternity to a four-year-old, I thought, as we drove back to Devonport, with Mud Run gear, gumboots and numerous changes of clothes on board. The eternity continued into Sunday morning, from the 7.30am wake-up. Nino was forced to sit through the first half of the All Blacks-Springbok test match as the countdown continued. Once we finally got to Stanley Bay school, and after the intial shock of the firemen, Nino was most interested in the mudslide – a huge adrenaline rush with participants sailing into a huge mud pit at the end. What he wasn’t entirely prepared for were the queues at the popular event – at registration and the start line. But then we were off – running hand in hand down the hill and into Stanley Bay

Boy in the bubbles... Four-year-old Nino particularly enjoyed the foam zone before crossing the finish line with grandad Rob Park and then onto the Navy ground. Under I would trust her with the foam cannon. It and over an obstacle course (done easily), didn’t worry Nino though, who had a ball in through “hot lava” steps (hand-in-hand), the “bubble bath” as he described it, while then the car wash (aborted half way through), we waited in line for the mud slide. tyre maze (completed) under army netting Initally relaxed, the hand grip tightened as (enjoyed it with help from Amy from the we hit the main event. The slide came to a Depot), and then walking the plank (dead grinding halt before the final plunge, which keen but then yeah, nah). Back up the hill suited both of us just fine. to the school and he almost baulked out of Down the finishing straight, we were the foam chute. given a pretty gentle spray welcome by the One of the marshalls on the foam section hose masters. We survived, having run or was Hana Mulligan, known for her bullet- fast-walked the 2km course. And thanks, Delike tennis forehand. I wasn’t quite so sure vonport Fire Brigade, for taking it easy on us.

NORTH SHORE PHILATELIC SOCIETY’S ANNUAL COMPETITIVE STAMP EXHIBITION SATURDAY 3RD OCTOBER 2026 AT ST. JOSEPH’S CHURCH HALL TAHAROTO ROAD, TAKAPUNA 10 A.M. – 4 P.M.

4 Stamp Dealers

Stamp Displays – Treasure Hunt Raffles – Refreshments

Attending Buying and Selling

Award Winning Display

come and see

Free Entry – All Welcome

Bring this advert with you and enter the draw to win a

Penny Black

The first stamp ever issued in May 1840

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 15

Fun times... Katie and Ava Robinson and Stella Delaney enjoyed their run. Below: Claire Levien on the hose, while Anna Schwab (waving) and Karen Mackenzie helped out in the foam zone.

NEW Pharmacy – 63 Lake Rd

FREE

PRESCRIPTIONS *$5 off the standard funded prescription charge.

63B Lake Road, Devonport

09 445 8118

info@DevonsHealthpoint.co.nz

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 16

School News 25 SEPTEMBER 2026

TGS students celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori in Devonport To mark Maori Language week, Takapuna Grammar School students and staff embraced opportunities to learn and engage with te reo Māori in and out of the classroom. While senior students were busy with exam preparation, TGS's junior Te Reo Māori students enjoyed a special day out in Devonport, attending a Tātaki Auckland Unlimited event at The Vic Theatre. With popcorn and ice cream, students watched Mana Whakatipu, a Māori short film described as a "kapa haka horror". The screening was especially exciting for TGS, as the film featured students Tara Barrett and Nikita McDonald. For Tara, the experience was a unique introduction to acting on screen. After attending acting classes with filmmaker Vavaki McNaughton, she was invited to audition for the lead role of Kaea and was thrilled to be selected. "It was amazing to be part of a project this special," Tara said. "It gave me the opportunity to help bring awareness to the difference between what some people think Māori should be and who we really are. It was my first time acting in front of a camera and working on a project of this scale." Following the screening, students watched I Was Born To Speak, a powerful theatre performance presented by Billy Reynolds McCarthy. Throughout the day, they joined in waiata, learned new kupu hou (vocabulary), and embraced opportunities to speak and celebrate te reo Māori. The adventure concluded with a climb to the summit of Takarunga (Mt Victoria).

Staff also marked Te Wiki o te Reo Māori by taking part in a workshop exploring resources, kīwaha (slang), whakataukī (proverbs) and waiata to support the everyday use of te reo Māori across the school. Tara Barrett as Kaea in short film Mana Whakatipu

Winter Tournament success for TGS TGS students enjoyed an outstanding Winter Tournament Week, achieving national titles, team promotions and historic results across a range of sports. Highlights included Year 9 student George Dong winning the NZSS U15 Table Tennis National Championship, the Boys' 1st XI Hockey Team earning promotion to the National Rankin Cup for the first time, and the Cycling Team securing a national title and multiple podium finishes. The Girls' 1st XI Football Team achieved the highest-ever national finish for a TGS girls' football team, claiming third place at Nationals. Orla Chambers was awarded the Golden Boot after scoring nine goals during the tournament. Other strong performances came from the Girls' 1st XI Hockey Team, Premier Netball Team, and Premier Basketball Teams, while the Boys' 1st XI Football Team celebrated its first Nationals appearance in more than 15 years.

Show your pride in TGS with new Supporters Gear The Boys’ 1st XI Hockey qualified for 2027 Rankin Cup for the first time in TGS history

TGS 1st XI Girls Football in Taupō

TGS has launched a new range of supporters gear, including hoodies, crew necks and T-shirts, featuring two stylish designs: our much-loved traditional Rampant Lion and a contemporary new TGS look. Along with the popular Supporters' Scarf, the new range is perfect for supporting our teams from the sidelines, attending school performances and events, or showing your connection to the TGS community. As an added bonus, $10 from every purchase will be directed to an area of the school of your choice. Order now via the school website under the Centenary tab.

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 17

Narrow Neck 6 Wicklow Road

Your forever home is waiting

A rare opportunity to secure a home that has been cherished by the same family for over five decades. Flat, sunny, and generously proportioned 506sqm Freehold site.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 14 Oct 2026 33 King Edward Parade, Devonport View Sat/Sun 12-12.30pm or by appointment Natasha Pretorius 021 204 8384 Ian Cunliffe 027 227 9322

Wicklow Road sits in one of Narrow Neck's most coveted pockets. Walking distance to Narrow Neck beach, the village, the cafes, and everything that makes this peninsula so special. What an idyllic place to drop anchor and reside for many years to come.

bayleys.co.nz/1470861

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

bayleys.co.nz

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 18

Steps considered to replace dinghy ramp at Blair Park Timber steps are being investigated as an option to give people access to the coastline at Stanley Point after the removal of the Blair Park dinghy ramp. The ramp was closed in October 2023, and removed after a swimmer was injured after coming into contact with the “jagged remains” of the damaged ramp. The Devonport-Takapuna Local Board has approved a budget of $298,304 towards the renewal of access after the ramp was

removed, $89,082 of which has been spent on pathways and retaining structures. Auckland Council presented three options to the board at a recent meeting, including doing nothing more, reinstating the area (estimated to cost $120,000) or constructing a new timber dinghy ramp (estimated to cost $300,000). Officials recommended the Blair Park dinghy lockers be removed if reinstatement was the preferred option.

Chair Trish Deans said she supported reinstatement “as long as there’s still access for swimmers”. Board member Garth Ellingham suggested adding an inbuilt roller for kayakers to have easier access to the area. The council staff told the board any building consents were surrendered when the ramp was removed, so any plan would require a new consent application. The board recommended reinstatement.

YOUR STORIES ARE IMPORTANT Ask now, not someday soon... Bricolage captures the voices, faces & memories your family will treasure before they’re gone.

Film – Audio – Print – Archives Free Consultation • mark@bricolage-studio.com • 021 645 459

www.bricolage-studio.com

Tide Times courtesy of Amanda Evans m 4 am 3

Fri Sep 25

9 noon 3

9 pm am 3

Sat Sep 26

9 noon 3

9 pm am 3

Sun Sep 27

9 noon 3

9 pm am 3

Mon Sep 28 6

9 noon 3

9 pm am 3

Tue Sep 29

9 noon 3

9 pm am 3

Wed Sep 30 6

9 noon 3

9 pm am 3

Thu

Oct 1

9 noon 3

9 pm

3 2 1 0

H 6:04am L 12:05pm

m 4 am 3

Fri

6:27pm

Oct 2

9 noon 3

H 6:49am 7:09pm L 12:26am 12:47pm

9 pm am 3

Sat

Oct 3

9 noon 3

H L

9 pm am 3

8:32am 1:09am

8:50pm 2:28pm

Sun Oct 4

9 noon 3

H L

9 pm am 3

9:14am 2:52am

9:33pm 3:10pm

Mon Oct 5 6

9 noon 3

H L

9 pm am 3

9:57am 10:17pm 3:36am 3:53pm

Tue

Oct 6

9 noon 3

H 10:41am 11:03pm L 4:20am 4:39pm

9 pm am 3

Wed Oct 7 6

9 noon 3

H 11:27am 11:52pm L 5:05am 5:28pm

9 pm am 3

Thu

Oct 8

9 noon 3

9 pm

3 2 1 0

H 12:16pm L 5:53am 6:21pm

H 12:44am 1:11pm L 6:44am 7:20pm

H 1:40am 2:12pm L 7:41am 8:24pm

H 2:41am 3:18pm L 8:45am 9:32pm

H 3:47am 4:24pm L 9:55am 10:37pm

H 4:54am 5:26pm L 11:02am 11:38pm

H 5:58am 6:23pm L 12:03pm

©Copyright OceanFun Publishing Ltd

In a Market of Changing Tides, Extraordinary Homes Endure Standout with New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. NZSIR North Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

Amanda Evans | M +64 21 813 910 | amanda.evans@nzsir.com

September 25, 2026 By Rob Drent

It has been quite sad walking to work the last week past Paradox Books with its closed doors and empty window. We’ve still got second-hand bookshops Juan Darien and Bookmark nearby, and the Devonport Library. And Fleet Street Books, which is taking over the stock from Paradox, will open at 1 Fleet St this month. But I’ve always found something comforting about having a bookshop in the main street selling the latest books. Paradox was at 26 Victoria Rd for almost 30 years. Owner Terrie Gray and her friendly and helpful staff will be missed – along with the great selection of books. The tenet that in a democracy, no government is above the law will tested by Devonport Heritage’s judicial review of Peninsula Capital’s fast track application to redevelop Devonport village with five new buildings up to eight storeys high. The government has ruled the proposal is regionally or nationally significant and approved its submission to a fast-tracking

The Flagstaff Notes

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 19

panel for consideration. And it is these words, “regionally or nationally significant”, which could come under close scrutiny by the courts. Devonport Heritage has argued that the application does not meet the regionally or nationally significant threshold and should be dealt with by Auckland Council as a standard resource consent. Peninsula Capital, on the other hand, provided data to show the regional economic benefits of the project. These were accepted by the government to meet the threshold for fast tracking. For those new to Devonport: a successful judicial review of a government decision has been successfully fought by a local group before. The Tamaki Reserve Protection Trust won a historic High Court judicial review in June 2000 against the Minister of Conservation, successfully overturning a decision on public land between Narrow Neck Beach and Fort Takapuna. The National-led government of the time wanted to sell the land. But the judicial review found it was actually designated as a reserve. A later Labour government made the land a park. Significantly, the Tamaki Reserve Protection campaign had a top lawyer working probono and had the backing of the Devonport Community Board and North Shore City Council as co-litigants in the proceedings. Auckland Council and the Devon-

port-Takapuna Local Board both opposed Peninsula Capital’s fast-tracking application. It remains to be seen if the council will join Devonport Heritage’s action. Logically, it should: local councillors Richard Hills and John Gillon have been vocal opponents of fast-tracking across the city. And if Peninsula Capital’s fast-tracking is approved, it would lay waste to council’s Auckland Unitary Plan restrictions for Devonport: a maximum of four storeys for the commercial centre. Devonport Heritage, meanwhile, will not have taken legal moves lightly. Costs associated with a fight to save the Masonic Tavern from conversion into apartments sent its predecessor into bankruptcy in 2016.

Apartments available now William Sanders Village | 7 Ngataringa Road, Devonport Join a thriving retirement community offering a lifestyle that makes it easy to stay active and connected with like-minded people. We have two bedroom apartments available now, priced from $885,000. Don’t miss out, call Scott on 445 0909.

I’ve covered countless community events across Devonport in my 29 years at the Flagstaff. But this year I’ve actually taken part in two: the PechaKucha speaking event at the Victoria Theatre and this month the Stanley Bay School Mud Run. Much to my surprise I enjoyed both – for different reasons. The PechaKucha was a powerful expression of Devonport’s identity, while the anticipation and joy experienced by my grandson leading up to and in the midst of the meticulously organised mud run will be a lifelong memory. I hope both events continue and the mud run again becomes an annual event.

$20K toward

your movse*

Sign up to an independent apartment at a participating village by 30 September 2026, and you’ll receive $20,000 to use towards your moving and packing costs*.

Find out more at ryman.co.nz/20k-back *Terms and conditions apply

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 20

Devonport 09 445 2010

Barfoot & Thompson Limited Licensed REAA 2008

Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club

OPEN HOME

BAYSWATER

TENDER 2

4 0 B N O RW O O D R OA D

DEVONPORT

FOR SALE

barfoot.co.nz/929931

VIEWING Saturday 2:00-2:30pm

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

Our vendors have held this apartment for over 13 years first as a place to call home and there after as a good solid investment.

3 / 1 6 Q U E E N S PA R A D E

FOR SALE $825,000

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

barfoot.co.nz/939678

2.00pm 30 Sep 2026 at 39 Victoria Road, Devonport (unless sold prior)

VIEWING Sat/Sun 1.00-1.30pm

Cathy Fiebig 021 383 149

FOR SALE

DEVONPORT

TENDER

Price By Negotiation

Prestigious Norwood Avenue, close to the Marina and priced to sell! Move in and enjoy— nothing to do. See you at our open home!

2 / 7 OW E N S R OA D

VIEWING Phone For Viewing Times

Kurt Piper 021 137 6450

NEW PRICE

STANLEY POINT

22 SUMMER STREET

PRICE REDUCTION! It's not often an affordable gem like this pops up in Summer St. ... TIME TO GET YOUR SKATES ON!

barfoot.co.nz/937320

FOR SALE $1,649,000

VIEWING Sat/Sun 12:30 - 1:00pm

Toni Gregory 021 044 3663 Alexandra Corbin 021 643 673

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 21

Devonport 09 445 2010

Barfoot & Thompson Limited Licensed REAA 2008

Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club

NEW LISTING

BAYSWATER

DEADLINE SALE

2 4A N O RW O O D R OA D

DEVONPORT

barfoot.co.nz/938500

2/56 BERESFORD STREET

(unless sold prior)

VIEWING Sat & Sun 1.00-1.30pm

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

Superbly positioned in one of Cheltenham's most coveted cul-de-sacs. Fully renovated, just move in & enjoy walking to the cafes & beach. Please call today.

barfoot.co.nz/936037

barfoot.co.nz/932983

2pm 6 Oct 2026, 39 Victoria Road (unless sold prior)

VIEWING Sat/Sun 12:00-12:30pm

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

FOR SALE

OPEN HOME 1

DEVONPORT 7A A B B OT S F O R D T E R R AC E

By Negotiation

A charming cottage-style home. Something truly special, beautifully planted private exclusive use garden. Savvy buyers, make your move NOW!

DEADLINE SALE

2.00pm 14 Oct 2026 at 39 Victoria Road Devonport

OPEN HOME

BAYSWATER

12 SINCLAIR STREET

TENDER BIG, BOLD & BEAUTIFUL Do not miss viewing this as new, beautifully designed home just minutes from the marina, on a quiet back section.

VIEWING Sunday 2:00-2:30pm

Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452 Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681

FOR SALE By Negotiation

Set in this highly sought after village location, this low maintenance cedar home basks in all day sun. With versatile living and a peaceful open outlook.

barfoot.co.nz/938308

VIEWING 3.00-3.30pm Sat & Sun 11.00-11.30am

Tracey Lawrence 021 1720 681 Trish Fitzgerald 021 952 452

Letters

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 22

September 25, 2026

Many locals are entirely supportive of 8-storey plan Margot McRae’s angry letter (“Building heights about higher profit, not viability” ) to the Peninsula Capital principals (11 September) suggests that the local community is enraged about the proposed Devonport Lanes development. I’d like to point out that Devonport Heritage does not speak for everyone. There are many locals who, like me, are entirely supportive of this transformational $400 million investment in our village. The facts are clear. Devonport has been losing population even as Auckland has grown significantly. The population fell by about 7% between the 2013 and 2023 censuses, while Auckland grew by around 17%. We’re an inner-city suburb with arguably the best transport link in the city to the CBD – a lovely 15-minute, traffic-free ferry ride. As Auckland grows, its inner suburbs

need to accommodate more people while also offering more housing, amenities and employment opportunities – that means intensification. This coordinated proposal will bring jobs, housing, accommodation options, retail, entertainment and, yes, vibrancy to the village. Who could deny that the area needs investment? There are some fabulous local businesses, but the proposed development zone is currently a ramshackle collection of sheds and rundown prefabs, while a walk around the Wynyard St area at 7.30pm any night of the week highlights why the area needs more people and development. To suggest that the developers are greedy and out for a quick buck misrepresents the situation. The project has already been more than three years in planning and will require

several more years before shovels are even in the ground. Fast Track it may be, but fast it certainly is not. The “4 not 8” campaign suggests there is a choice between this proposal and an alternative based on four-storey buildings. The reality is that there is no alternative on the table. Blocking Devonport Lanes risks leaving us with the status quo and the continued lack of investment that many of us have experienced over the last decade or more. With all the anger directed towards Peninsula Capital, I hope the Devonport Flagstaff continues to represent the full range of views in our community, including those of locals who welcome the investment and support the proposed Fast Track development. Matt Arnold

Natural-style play? Try the beach just over the road The proposal for the $506,925 (it will be more) Domain playground upgrade includes landscaping and boulders to “recreate” the concept of something that might have been there in the past and “a more natural-style play” (Flagstaff, 11 September). Children don’t want to play with boulders, a walkway and landscaping, they want to play on play equipment. As for the cost of this “natural” creation, well, take a few steps across the road and

there is a natural playground complete with sand, rocks and sea – all for free, and just as it used to be in the past. Seems to me the whole concept very much prioritises adult aesthetics. This playground is mainly used by smaller children with their parents and is a place where children can enjoy peaceful play at a quiet alternative to the rowdy weekend-crowded Windsor Reserve playground. So why encourage teenagers?

Fence gives peace of mind, limiting swings is mean I was absolutely gobsmacked to read that the new playground design for the Domain is not factored to have a fence between the playground and the road. I take my 1-to-3-year-old grandchildren to play at that playground and it is an enormous relief to know that there is a secure fence and gate between the playground and the footpath and busy road, with an open park the other side.

Little children love to run free in a safe, secure environment. The worry of trying to catch them and keep them safe from the road will make it not a playground for little children anymore. On the subject of swings, they are always popular with children. There’s usually a queue for swings. To limit the number of playground swings is downright mean. Lynne Mitchell

NAKED AESTHETICS

Anti Wrinkle | Dermal Filler | Facial Rejuvenation

Devonport local Claire Waterworth, Registered Cosmetic Nurse Injector, delivers natural, refined results in a boutique setting. She actively trains and educates fellow clinicians while creating personalised treatments that enhance what is naturally yours. This puts you, your face and your results in very safe hands.

Book your complimentary consultation today

www.nakedaesthetics.co.nz

I say leave the air swing out, it will be dominated by older children and teenagers and would pose a danger to little children in the area. This is not the location for it. The current structures seem to be adequate. I am not sure why they need replacing. Is it a safety issue, or just somewhere to spend money? J. Leighton

Northboro Rd cars damaged by careless drivers Does our local MP not realise the traffic on Lake Rd and the limited access to Devonport? I live in Northboro Rd, Hauraki, which is on a bus route. I have heard suggestions that they are now proposing to have parking on only one side. I agree with parking on one side – it’s bad enough now – but not with promoting it as an alternative route. All the locals pull over to let buses come through. However, I have pulled over for a bus and been overtaken. I know of three instances when people using our road weren’t cautious and smashed into residents’ cars parked on the road. The problem with Lake Rd should have been addressed years ago. If this proposal for Northboro Rd goes ahead, they should take out the berms and provide adequate lanes. Weekend traffic to and from Devonport is a nightmare. Katrina Wiseman

September 25, 2026

Letters

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 23

Visitor from Hawke’s Bay: Lanes designs unappealing I’ve never lived in Devonport or even Auckland for that matter, but visit the city multiple times each year. On almost every visit I set aside a few hours or half a day to catch the ferry across, grab a gelato or a meal and watch a movie at the Vic, to enjoy the waterfront and pleasant surroundings. Devonport has never felt like a stagnant place to me – far from it. It is the “human scale” village feel that draws me to Devonport and has me recommending it as a place to visit. The Devonport Lanes streetscape pro-

jections do not look appealing at all – it’s more of the same that we’re seeing rubber stamped everywhere across towns and cities in NZ and also in Australia. The eight-storey height will just set a precedent for more of the same: each building casting large shadows and slowly but surely making the streets below unpleasant places to be. For Devonport, I have my fingers crossed that the pushback against the development results at the very least in reduced building heights. For the nation, I hope that the brakes can be put on unbridled growth by

consideration of the systemic causes: a faulty monetary system and the entrenched trend of privatising the gains and socialising the losses. The bottom line is that our governments should be working for us – with healthy human development (the spiritual and the material) as an overarching goal – not acting primarily as eager corporate facilitators. The last 50 years have been an experiment in unbridled growth here and abroad – who can say that our cities, villages and people are better off for it? Damien Naidoo, Hawke’s Bay

Big plans for Lake Rd widening revealed! (13 years ago) To the old saw, “The only certain things in life are death and taxes” we can add our local politicians’ promises on fixing Lake Rd. A Flagstaff flashback to a May 17, 2013 front page article headlined “Lake Rd to be widened to four lanes”. It reads: “Congested Lake Rd will be widened to four lanes, Auckland Transport has confirmed. “However, actual work on the widening is several years away, although $40 million is budgeted to be spent on the project by 2021/22. “‘The traffic demands on Lake Rd far exceed its capacity, therefore Auckland Transport (AT) plans to widen Lake Rd to provide capacity for four lanes of traffic from Jutland Rd (Hauraki Corner) to Bayswater Ave,’ a spokesman said. “While designs are still to be finalised,

it seems most likely a bus/high-occupancy vehicle lane will be built each way from Bayswater Ave to Takapuna. “The widening of Lake Rd will a have a major impact on the viability of proposed intensification of Belmont and other parts of the Devonport Peninsula. “In the 2014/15 financial year, AT is proposing to improve the Lake Rd traffic flows, ‘including an in depth investigation of the operation of the traffic signals in order to identify further improvements and to provide better coordination through the intersections along this route,’ the AT spokesman said. “AT’s current budgets for Lake Rd are: 2014/15: $273,000; 2015/16: $250,000; 2016/17: $2,162,000; 2017/18: $2,683,000; 2018/19: $2,395,000; 2019/20: $3,348,000; 2020/21: $9,759,000; 2021/22: $19,606,00. “It is likely that much of the money will be

consolidated into one sum at some stage so that works are carried out in one hit. “Asked when ferries and buses to and from Devonport will go quarter hourly , the spokesman said: ‘Changes to services on the North Shore are due to be implemented 2014/15 as part of the New Network’. “The Bayswater Ferry Terminal is, according to Auckland Transport, due to be completed in 2019-20 with a budget of $11,421,000. “The contract for the new terminal building at Stanley Bay is set to go up to tender shortly.” Four councils/ local boards later we should add “procrastination and increased congestion” to the certainties of Devonport life. No doubt Covid didn’t help. Wonder what happened to the money? Bill Rayner

Rose Centre serves area where support should grow The Rose Centre board was concerned to read in the latest Flagstaff about the potential impact of the proposed Auckland Council funding changes on our local community. The Rose Centre is the only site-specific community centre serving Belmont, Bayswater and Hauraki, providing a place for people to connect, participate in the arts, attend events and activities and build a stronger sense of community close to home. Since March, we have hosted more than 470 bookings by local people or for the benefit of the local community. Over the past four years, we have significantly increased our community engagement and the range of opportunities we provide. Despite our council funding remaining largely static, the Rose Centre board is proud of how our team continues to punch above their weight. We have invested considerable time and

effort into understanding and responding to the needs of our local communities. That need is only becoming greater as Belmont, Bayswater and Hauraki experience significant growth and intensification. New housing and increased population bring with them a greater need for places where people can meet, participate, access activities and build connections. Yet our communities do not have the same network of dedicated community facilities available elsewhere in the Devonport-Takapuna area. Devonport village, for example, is supported by a strong network of community assets including the Depot, Devonport Library, Devonport Community House and Harmony Hall. We believe placemaking and investment in Belmont, Bayswater and Hauraki needs to be strengthened, not reduced. A significant reduction in local board

funding would have consequences for the opportunities we provide to our communities, at a time when demand for them is growing. We support a fair approach to funding across Auckland, however we urge decision-makers to consider what these funding changes would mean on the ground for local people. Once community infrastructure, programmes and relationships are lost, they can be challenging and costly to rebuild. We look forward to being part of the ongoing communication and consultation with the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board and are happy to support the board in its submissions to Auckland Council. Rose Centre board: Anni Dowden-Jones, Ann Langis, Mary-Beth McKeever, Andrea Tong, Siobhan Yurak

Support your paper for the price of a cup of coffee. Go to devonportflagstaff.co.nz and click on ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of the page.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 24

Interview

September 25, 2026

Octogenarian priest prepares to say tofa soifua Devonport is Father Neil Darragh’s final posting. The Waikato-raised Catholic priest tells Helen Vause about the long and varied career that preceded it. When Father Neil Darragh turned 84 recently, a Samoan choir came to mass at St Francis de Sales and All Souls Catholic Church in Devonport to raise the roof in his honour. There was a very large birthday cake to share afterwards with parishioners. He had both a birthday and 60 years in the priesthood to celebrate. It’s a lot to look back on and when those strong Samoan voices faded out, Father Darragh addressed them in fluent Samoan, surprising some of his congregation. Many would have realised then that there was a lot they didn’t know about this man who’d only been with them a few years and was making the Devonport parish his last stop as a working priest. “Well,” grins Darragh, “I’ve told them it’s my last year, but I don’t think we have a date in sight.” He came to Devonport in the Covid years, a stranger to the North Shore, and taking up a position in a very different community from all those that had been home before. As a swan song for the priest and widely respected theologian, they’ve been good years, he says. His life and times in the Catholic fold began on the family farm in Matamata, where he was one of seven children in his immediate family. His parents had siblings around the district, so there were more young cousins than he could easily count. Often at home or at an aunty’s or uncle’s place, there were many faces around the table for family gatherings. “There were a lot of us. But that was normal in farming districts in those times. Big families were what I knew.” He came to Auckland for his secondary schooling, boarding at Sacred Heart College. It was then that he decided the priesthood would be his career and his life. And from there he embarked on a pathway of learning, discipline and venturing far from the fields, family and friends of his younger life, on

David Smart Independent

Financial Adviser

LOCAL SUPPORTING LOCAL

p: 027 543 4455 e: david@davidsmart.co • Personal & tailored service • Call me for a confidential, no-obligation chat.

Garden Design Landscape DesignDevonport Devonport Whether you are planning a garden refresh or a full0 renovation, let us work with you to define your vision so that you can proceed with a plan. Call Steve on 021 345 694

www.davidsmart.co Copies of Disclosure Statements on website

Theologian... Father Neil Darragh began his studies in seminaries but went on to universities in Rome and New Zealand, where he eventually did a doctorate in theology at the University of Otago the way to his ordination as a Catholic priest during his years in Italy. about seven years later, in 1966. When he got home, first stop as a newly At first young Darragh went to study minted priest was at the inner-city parish of in seminaries in Christchurch and then St Benedict’s in Newton. in Mosgiel. Then he left for a couple of But more learning beckoned, and he challenging years in Rome and the Vatican embarked on a BA in social sciences at the City. At just 21, he says he’d found himself University of Auckland. During those years in a “pretty exciting” part of the world, even he was also a chaplain at the university and if the academic and daily demands on him subsequently a chaplain at Mt Eden prison. would be challenging. He was moved around for short stays at “I was young and ready for it,” he various parishes – Kawerau, Coromandel, remembers “but it did tax the brain a bit.” then back to Auckland again. The challenge for the young Kiwi was Later he was based out in Tuakau and the language. At the theological university his most recent base before Devonport was he attended, all the lectures were in Latin Glen Innes. and when he got home to his college digs The Samoan connection came early in his everyone spoke Italian. career when there was a shortage of Catholic “I learned to speak that language pretty priests for the Samoan community. Darragh quickly.” There were no other Kiwis there was sent by the church to Samoa and moved

KG1123

steve@naturalgardens.co.nz Instagram @natural.gardens

September 25, 2026 around various villages there. They were rewarding years in the 70s, but it wasn’t an easy job. “It was tough trying to learn the language and to understand the very rich Samoan culture. It was very hands -on and it was very easy to put your foot in it. But they always gave me marks for trying.” Back home in Auckland, he became chaplain to the Samoan community until 1985. He’d also pursued his own higher education. His masters degree dissertation, when he was a prison chaplain in the early 1970s, was entitled “an Analysis of the Social Relations of Prison Inmates”. Twenty years later he completed a Phd in theology at the University of Otago. Alongside his postings and parish responsibilities, Darragh, who has been a widely published theologian, wanted to keep challenging his inquiring mind, exploring the big life questions, religious beliefs and the workings of everyday life. He lectured in theological schools but in 2006 retired from active teaching to focus on research and community development. He researched and wrote prolifically and has at least 80 papers and articles to his name. He has authored or edited nine books that have been received with interest across the denominations. They had titles that would resonate with many a churchgoer, such as A Thinker’s Guide to Sin: Talking about Wrongdoing Today. Darragh writes: “The sacrament of reconciliation looks to be on a steady downward path to oblivion. But it is possible that revised and more realistic ways to talking about sin might revive this ancient spiritual practice.” In another title published in 2021, But What is the Church For?, he outlines the many personal reasons that may contribute to churchgoing – tradition, identity, a way to salvation or coming closer to God. The book cover asserts: “In any case the

Interview

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 25

Moving on... Father Darragh has told the Catholic Church it’s his last year in the job church is not just for us or the benefits we get out of it. Very few of us would say that this is what the church is really for. There is surely something more here, something more generous, life-giving, outgoing and gracious than what we personally get out of it. “This book is about the church’s outreach beyond itself – its purpose beyond any benefits for those who are already its members. This book is not about a church looking inwards and worrying about itself, but about a church looking outwards.” Reflecting on his own journey as a priest, he says he’s seen huge changes over the decades and with them, shifts in thinking. “These days many people are just coping with their lives, Liturgy is not just talking to God, it is about people talking together about what life is all about.” For him it’s been a lifetime of always trying to be available to his flock with a listening ear. Priests cannot switch off or clock-watch. Darragh was always available

to counsel parishioners, sharing sorrows, sickness and major life worries. “The job is never really done and at the end of it all to some extent it has to be open-ended. You can’t really measure how effective you have been. You just have to be there.” He has no doubt the job has been fulfilling and he values the “very pleasant networks” he has built. In his 80s he added locally to that network with another friendly flock. But for this softly spoken, spare man, the years are catching up a bit and the regular walker says the body doesn’t work as well as it once did. As the time fast approaches when he’s “been there” long enough, the issue of what’s next is in front of him. But he expects he will be moving on from his comfy home beside the church. It wouldn’t be fair, he says, to stick around once a new priest arrives in Devonport. “They would have their own way of doing things. You have to move on.”

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

09 443 4461 info@neodesign.co.nz

www.neodesign.co.nz

Visit our showroom at 96 Hillside Rd, Glenfield, Auckland

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 26

Peter drives 239 kms each day to see his wife. He shouldn’t have to. Year after year, governments have failed to plan for New Zealand’s ageing population. As local aged residential care fills up, families are forced to care for loved ones at home, or send them away from their community to find the care they need. Peter’s story is just one of many. Hear others, plus play your part at

thelongdrive.co.nz

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 27

20 years ago from the Flagstaff files • The Bayswater ferry terminal is dropped from Auckland regional transport funding, despite $270,000 having been spent on designing it. • Mattea Mrkusic wins the year 7 girls’ race in the Belmont Intermediate cross country. • Molly Eagles, known as the Duchess of Devonport and a fervent supporter of North Shore Rugby Club, dies aged 86. • Morph, a lifestyle magazine, is launched by the Depot, with the first issue featuring

local rock band The Checks. • Prime Minister Helen Clark visits Devonport twice in two days, touring the Depot with coordinator Linda Blincko then opening a new $1.7 million staff resources and administration block at Belmont Intermediate. • Silas Cullen and Angela McNaughton cycle the length of South America, raising $10,000 for cancer research. • Obstacles such as trees and bus signs causing problems on a cycle way along

Victoria Rd won’t be removed. • The Kingdom House in Bayswater wins an architectural design award. • The Victoria Theatre is expected to reopen in November. • North Shore Rugby Club’s senior reserves win the North Harbour title • NZ tennis number one Mark Nielsen begins coaching at Belmont Park Racquets Club. • Baby whisperer Raewyn McGrigor is the Flagstaff interview subject.

The Valley author speaks at Devonport Library Asher Emanuel, author of top-selling New Zealand non-fiction book The Valley: Crime and Punishment in a New Zealand City, will speak in Devonport next week. The Devonport Library will host Wellington-based Emanuel on Wednesday September 30 at 6.30pm, when he will be in conversation with Auckland University Faculty of Law associate professor Anna Hood. Emanuel started researching the book in 2018 when he was working as a lawyer and freelance writer. He came up with the idea after starting his law career working in the criminal court.

“I felt the news media representation of the criminal justice system didn’t reflect the reality of the day-to-day in the court system.” The events covered take place in 2020 in the Hutt Valley, following two men and their legal aid lawyer navigating the criminal justice system. One subject of the story had spent a lot of time in jail, primarily for shoplifting convictions, which Emanuel thought readers might find surprising. He said he had been “totally awed” by the response to his work, and his success has had him travelling around the country

for author talks. “I had a defence lawyer tell me he found a lot of [my book] very familiar, but a lot of it very new. Even the people involved in the court system only see their part of it.” The book takes a holistic view of the lives of people within the criminal justice system, with scenes at boarding houses and WINZ offices. “I found writing the book personally clarifying about the real nature of the problems in our justice system, and I hope that readers find it likewise.” Fleet Street Books will be selling copies at the Devonport Library event.

FUND THE FIGHT AGAINST FAST TRACK

4 NOT 8

Devonport Heritage is taking the Government to the High Court over its referral of the Devonport Lanes’ proposal to Fast Track. We want the decision reversed so the application can go through the normal resource consent process. This will allow the community to have HELP US FUND THE LEGAL FIGHT a say and enable a better outcome. Every donation makes a difference.

Donate via Givealittle a-future-worth-building-4-not-8 Or donate and get updates at: www.devonportheritage.net v

Thoughtful development. Valued heritage. A strong Devonport.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 28

September 25, 2026

If you’re listing your house this spring. Make sure you advertise it locally.

Contact your local agent to sell your property locally, marketing it in your local paper The Devonport Flagstaff We deliver to letterboxes and are online so reach all potential buyers

Go to www.devonportflagstaff.co.nz

Trades & Services

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 29

Family owned and operated since 1999

Full Servicing • Repairs W.O.F • Wheels/Tyres HAYDEN & KAYLA CUMISKEY

Ph (09) 445 4456

Email: devoautocentre@gmail.com

1A Fleet Street, Devonport

Drain unblocking Sewer / Stormwater Sinks / Showers Laundries

CALLOUTS FROM $80 EX GST

0800 437618 NORTH SHORE WWW.PRECISIONPLUMBING.CO.NZ

Experienced Sub Editor Wanted

close up

Part-time 2-3 days per week. sh en da

To work on The Devonport Flagstaff and Rangitoto Observer. Must be able to work in InDesign.

Adobe?

Projected start early 2027. Expected

your

Send CV to rob@devonportflagstaff.co.nz Rob Drent, Managing Editor The Devonport Flagstaff/ Rangitoto Observer

• Architectural Builds • Renovations/Extensions • Decks/Hard Landscaping • Commercial • Villa Restoration

021 056 2781

info@zebuild.co.nz

www.zebuild.co.nz

Reach your Devonport Peninsula customers cost-effectively Contact the Flagstaff for our rates and dates. E sales@devonportflagstaff.co.nz W www.devonportflagstaff.co.nz

Classifieds PUPPIES TO BE REHOMED 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 6159 706. Weedsaway - fast, efficient, reliable service. Casual or ongoing. 25 years + experience. Ph Sharon 09 418 2569 / 022 099 1960.

REPAIR MAINTAIN RIDE Needing your bikes ready for summer? Contact CYCLE CARE for all your local, mobile, bike servicing needs. Whether your bike is in good condition or in need of a major overhaul, we can help get you back riding.

ENROLMENTS Enrolment FOR for 2027 Out of Zone

Thinking about Devonport Primary School for your child in 2027? We would love to meet you. Enrolment for Out of Zone We are currently Students for 2019planning our classes for 2027 and invite families considering Devonport Primary School to book a visit, meet the Devonport Primary School andfor see our school in action. invitesPrincipal applications Devonport Primary out of zone enrolments in School operates an enrolment scheme, details of which are available Years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 from the school office. All children living within for 2019home zone have the right of entry. the school’s

Students for 2019

Devonport Primary School Call Andy 0290 457 6105 invites applications for CYCLE CARE out of zone enrolments in www.cyclecare.co.nz | info@cyclecare.co.nz The Board has determined that out-of-zone Applications close: 17th Oct places willYears be available for 2027 (Y1 -4, 10 places; 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 Ballot Date Oct Y4 - 5 places; Y5 Y2 (if - 6required) places; Y -324th - 6 places; - 3 places; Y6 - 5 places. for If the number 2019of out-ofapplications received Pleasezone contact the school for exceeds the number of placesforms, available at any year level, places will FLIP YOURS application or an be allocated according to the priorities set opportunity to visit. STU D I O out in the school’s enrolmentclose: scheme and,17th Oc Applications 445 0183 where required, by ballot. office@devonport.school.nz BATHTUB REPAIRS Multiple ballots may be throughout 2027- 24th Ballot Date (ifheldrequired) www.devonportschool.nz as further places become available. We & REFINISHING

Chips, cracks, stains or worn surfaces. • Repairs • Resurfacing • • Colour matching •

FREE QUOTES

Text Flip: 021 101 7227 flipyoursstudio@gmail.com Also available: Marble, tile & timber floor repairs

More services: flipyours.co.nz

encourage both in-zone and out-of-zone families intending to join us in 2027 to contact the school and enrol as early as possible. Early enrolment helps us plan our classes and staffing effectively. Families considering enrolment later in 2027 or in 2028 are also encouraged to contact us early, as knowing about future enrolments is extremely helpful for our planning. To arrange a school visit, obtain details of the enrolment scheme or discuss enrolment, please contact the Devonport Primary School office.

Please contact the school f application forms, or an opportunity to visit. 445 0183 office@devonport.school.n www.devonportschool.nz

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 30

Trades & Services

September 25, 2026

All Safe Electrical Services Ltd • 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

Andrew Holloway Floorsander • Floorsanding • Floorsanding • Polyurethaning staining • Polyurethaningand and staining • Tongue and Groove repairs • Tongue and Groove repairs • Serving Devonport since 1995 • Serving Devonport since 1995 Please phone for a free quote Please phone a 4519 free quote Phone 027for 285 Phone 027 285 4519 ahfloorsanding@xtra.co.nz ahfloorsanding@xtra.co.nz www.ahfloorsanding.co.nz

Barnett Ba Ba Bros. SPECIALISING IN VILLA/BUNGALOW S S Barnett Ba Ba Bros. RESTORATION, RENOVATION RESTO RESTO & ALTERATIONS

SPECIALISING IN VILLA/BUNGALOW S S Qualified RENOVATION builder and craftsman Q Q RESTORATION, RESTO RESTO & ALTERATIONS

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.

Plumbing, Gasfitting, Drainage, Roof Leaks

MAINTENANCE SPECIALISTS Prompt courteous service Fully insured for your peace of mind

Call Matt

Office: 445 8099 email: info@bissetltd.co.nz

0800 277 566

www.bissetltd.co.nz

Certifying Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer

• Electronic and mechanical lock installations • New keys for existing locks • Lock repairs • Lock Hardware

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 HOME IMMACULATE SERVICES Renew & Protect

HIGH PEAK PAINTING

Interior & Exterior Waterblasting & Plastering Roof & Fence spraying DEVONPORT LOCAL

Oliver Newman

021 041 1246

Building & Home Improvement Services Book your job in before Summer arrives & get 25% discount Decks, fences, retaining, garden boxes, landscaping, exterior cladding, small interior & exterior renovations, exterior/interior painting & gib stopping. Build a new granny at, games room, gym or sleepout up to 70m2 Over 30 years experience - No obligation free quotes

homeimmaculate.co.nz | 027 558 4147

Carpenter available now Qualified builder and craftsman for all door/window/sash/cord/sill for door and window repairs Carpenter available replacements All leak repairs now for door/window/sash/cord/sill All joinery repairs replacements All carpentry and associated All joineryservices repairs building carpentry andand associated Homework inspections AllAllchimney flashings building services Bathrooms Home inspections All work guaranteed Bathrooms

Q Q fo f

fo f

A Scott Barnett Scot S 021 188 c 7189 o All work guaranteed A s.barnett.builder@gmail.com s.ba s.ba Licensed building Licen Licen practitioner Scott Barnett Scot S 021 188 c 7189o

Barnett Ba Ba Bros.

s.barnett.builder@gmail.com s.ba s.ba

SPECIALISING IN VILLA/BUNGALOW S S RESTORATION, RENOVATION RESTO RESTO & ALTERATIONS

Qualified builder and craftsman Q Q Carpenter available now for door/window/sash/cord/sil fo f replacements YOUR ONE STOP SHOP Home MAlal jkoieneryOrepai verrs Specialists All carpentry and associated building services Torpedo Home inspectiBay ons Construction Bathrooms “Your local full-house renovation and extension specialists”

All work guaranteed A Scott BarnettScot Sco 021 188 7189 Jordan Cane – 021 293 8686 jordan@torpedobay.co.nz www.torpedobay.co.nz

s.barnett.builder@gmail.com s.ba s.ba

September 25, 2026

(formerly Ogden Electrical, same people & service, different name)

Call us for all your Electrical & Data requirements No job too big or too small No travel charge Shore-wide

Carl Ogden – 445 7528 carlo@searchfield.co.nz

Trades & Services

North Shore based renovations, new builds, design & project management since 1985. Trustworthy licensed builders specialising in residential alterations/extensions, kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, re-cladding.

Contact Alex Carey on 0274 660 666, or visit our website

www.efd.kiwi

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 31

Handyman

Your local handyman in Devonport

021 1968 908

vikinghandyman@yahoo.com www.vikinghandyman.co.nz

RECOVER YOUR

LOUNGE SUITE

Call us for a free quotation and put the life back into that favourite chair or lounge suite

AWARD FURNITURE Phone COLIN on 480 5864

Professional Quality Service Craftsman Plumber and Gasfitter

Ph 021 841 745 David Mortimore New installations Repairs and Maintenance

Precision Plumbing 2010 Ltd

david@precisionplumbing.co.nz www.precisionplumbing.co.nz

Professional and affordable electrical repairs and installations

09 445 3447

DEVONPORTELECTRICAL.CO.NZ

YOUR LOCAL CRAFTSMAN

PLUMBER

Friendly, experienced service for all of your plumbing needs.

CALL DERRICK TRAVERS

021-909790 445-6691

We guarantee our Workmanship

Backed by over 35 years’ experience of quality preparation and painting

ph ross kingdom

021 723 413

registered professional painters

Locally owned and operated Survey firm •Boundary marking •Subdivisions •Topographical Surveys •Cross-lease updates/conversions •Limited Title •Drone flights •Laser scans •Siting/asbuilt certificates for Council

Contact: michael@geosurvey.co.nz

027 239 0266

www.geosurvey.co.nz

Painters Midas Touch Painting Contractors

Locally Owned

• North Shore & Auckland wide • Residential & Commercial • Interior & Exterior • Roofs • Painting & Plastering

Ph: Luke Piper 021 410 766

Specialists in commercial and residential painting

Paul Charleton 021 143 9138 For all your decorating needs call the wizards

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 32

September 25, 2026

UNLOCKING New Zealand's POTENTIAL for families Karen Chhour

ACT Children’s Spokesperson

PARTY VOTE Authorised by C. Purves, www.act.org.nz Authorised by K. Chhour, karen.chhour@act.org.nz

Simon Watts For

North Shore

Proudly representing and living on the Shore Get in touch simon.watts@national.org.nz SimonWattsMP Authorised by S Watts, simon.watts@national.org.nz

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 33

Local recognised for work with arts group Being nominated by her team at arts organisation Toi Ora for a Westfield “Local Hero” award came as something of a surprise for Devonport local, Susanne Ritzenhoff. She is one of three finalists nominated at St Lukes mall, and says a win would make a real difference for the charitable operation, which provides a creative space with free and professional art classes for people in mental health distress. Ritzenhoff, who has been at the helm of Toi Ora for the past five and a half years, said voting is now closed with organisations finding out if they’ve won on 20 October. Winners receive $20,000 and other finalists $5000. “It’s an exciting wait,” said Ritzenhoff, adding that any winnings will be especially useful for putting on extracurricular activities such as when Toi Ora sells artists’ work, and exhibiting at community events. “It is these activities that help lift the mana of our artists, getting their artwork known by

people beyond the Toi Ora walls as well as increasing awareness of the benefits of art for wellbeing in the wider community,” she said. When Ritzenhoff took over the three-decade-old organisation, Toi Ora’s services were focused around its Grey Lynn studio. “Since then we have doubled the amount of artists registered with us and are expanding our creative classes beyond the studio.” An example is Toi Ora partnering with Auckland City Mission, and delivering two programmes as part of their wider service. “We collaborate with Mahitahi Trust and Emerge, where we deliver programmes inside Paremoremo Men’s Corrections and Wiri Women’s Corrections alongside their [addiction treatment] programmes.” Ritzenhoff said that seeing art recognised internationally as aiding wellbeing, and more research offered as part of an integrated health system, was very encouraging. “It confirms what we experience here at Toi Ora every day.”

3rd October, 7.30pm 4th October, 4pm

The Rose Centre, Belmont

Performances from Ma-ui Hitchens, Paris McDonald, Sam Crichton, Jedi Jumig, James Cassidy, Jessica Howard, Sophie Morley, Annie Hughes, Izzy Dimieva, Harrison Cooper, Kaitlyn Darroch Lyrics by Aedan Ward

$25 Tickets available via Humanitix

3 NEW FLOODLIT TENNIS COURTS • 10 Tennis courts • Three squash courts • One great club!

s New Memeb!er Welcom

• Bar • Mens and Women’s Social Tennis Nights • • Sunday Doubles • Events • Coaching • Interclub •

133 Bayswater Ave

Belmont Park Racquets Club | Admin@belmontracquets.co.nz | www.clubspark.kiwi/belmontparkracquetsclub

Confidence starts with Specialist Skin Cancer Care.

EARLY DETECTION

WORLD LEADING TREATMENT

PEACE OF MIND

Dermatologist, Dr David Lim www.skintel.co.nz 0800 SKINTEL 11a Apollo Drive, Rosedale

Boo

w No

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 34

Resource Recovery produces local bonus

Giving back... Resource Recovery Devonport’s Richard Linthwaite is proud of the donations the group has given in the local community Moving to a stronger business model five years ago has enabled Resource Recovery Devonport (RRD) to increase its support for the local community. “At the most recent count, we have donated over $200,000, and last year alone we gave $60,000 back to the community,” RRD manager Richard Linthwaite said. Around 18 organisations have been or are currently supported by RRD, including some with longer-term arrangements – North Shore United Football Club, Depot Arts and Restoring Takarunga Hauraki have 3-year sponsorships. Originally the focus was on environmental groups, but there was a limit to that type of activity. Linthwaite said RRD decided to diversify into supporting arts, sports and community connection projects as well. Applications are reviewed by the RRD board. “If we feel the applicant’s project is beneficial for the community and it aligns reasonably well with what we’re doing, then we’re more inclined to support it. We don’t tend to support individuals.” Although RRD is a charity, Linthwaite said aspects of it such as the yard and services such as landscape supplies and skip bins are run as a business, which was “ramped up” five years ago. “It generates profits that we can then give away.” Resource Recovery Devonport is one of 14 Community recycling centres across Auckland, and this will increase to 20 within two years. “The idea is to have a recycling centre within 20 minutes of every Aucklander.” Linthwaite said RRD was the cheapest recycling centre on the North Shore. “We

keep the prices realistic and it gives people a cost-effective way to recycle, and we recycle a lot – 85 percent of waste dropped to us is diverted from landfill.” Many items can be resold through the RRD op shop, which Linthwaite said caters to a different market than other op shops. “Some items that have been thrown away need [minor] repairs, like a screw to fix a table, or we get boxes of nails and screws which op shops won’t take. We have hobbyists or someone fixing a fence where a box of nails is exactly what they’re after.” A perceived lack of time can mean people find it easier to throw items away. Changing hearts and minds isn’t easy though, and Linthwaite said that’s where educational group ”Noughty Wasters”, run by Ann Langis, comes in. Operating alongside RRD, Langis takes the recycling message out to children and families. “We sponsor Noughty Wasters to do some educational work on our behalf. Such as school visits, family days and school holiday programmes. Last year they ran a bottle-top collection programme through local schools for us. The school with the biggest collection won $1000, which went to St Leo’s.” Two years ago RRD set up a skip bin business. “Local skip companies wouldn’t tip their waste materials with us because they can tip it cheaper at sites that landfill it all, so we decided to do it ourselves,” said Linthwaite. He hopes that homeowners having a renovation will ask their builder to use the RRD skips instead of their usual, but as with other recycling, Linthwaite says getting the message across isn’t easy.

September 25, 2026

Arts / Entertainment Pages

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 35

Farsi play staged in Belmont with plot notes for nonspeakers

Depot Te Whare Toi

When Devonport local Forouzan Jalali arrived in New Zealand from Iran with her husband and daughter three years ago, she quickly identified an opportunity to share her passion for acting within the New Zealand Iranian community. Jalali (pictured, right) followed her sister, who has been in New Zealand for 10 years, in joining community group Iranian Women in New Zealand (Iwin). “There was quite a range of classes at Iwin, such as painting, cooking and dance, but no acting classes,” said Jalali. With a 20-year background in cinema and television, Jalali drew on her experience to establish Afra Art Group in October 2024. Under Jalali’s tutelage and direction, the group began with acting classes and then prepared for and staged Auckland’s first-ever Farsi theatre production, As is Plainly Obvious, at the Rose Centre, Belmont in May 2025. “When my acting students joined the class, they were completely new to acting,” Jalali said. The one-off production received “wonderful feedback” and encouraged Jalali to take a brand new group of acting students through their paces this year and to direct them in a new production, Drought & Lies, written by Mohammad Yaghoubi. The play, which explores the universal themes of love, relationships, jealousy and untold secrets, was staged at the Rose Centre in June to a sold-out crowd. “We were inspired to stage it again, but this time we are encouraging non-Farsi speakers to attend,” Jalali said. A booklet outlining the plot in English will be provided, giving an idea of what is happening during the play, and as Jalali pointed out, it isn’t uncommon to see a stage show – such as an opera – in another language.

24 24 Hour 24Towing Hour Towing 24 Hour Towing Hour Towing Devonport Devonport Owned Owned Devonport Devonport Owned Owned Operated and Operated andand Operated and Operated

Dennis

We hope you've had the chance to celebrate Matariki with whānau and friends at one of the many events held across our community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the opening of Pūanga – Matariki 2026: Te Waka o Rangi. If you missed it, the exhibition continues until 15 August at DEPOT Artspace, with selected works also available online. While you're there, visit DEPOT 3 Vic Road to explore additional works by Māori ringatoi from across Te Hau Kapua, featuring Shaun Tiria, Ashleigh Zimmerman, Mark Howard, Keri-Mei Zagrobelna, Aroha Te Kahika, Kiriana O'Connell, Joelle Holland and Rose Evans. Looking ahead, we're excited to present Paintress, a major solo exhibition by Jessica Pearless, opening 22 August. The exhibition is accompanied by a series of events, including an artist panel discussion and Echoes of Environment, a wearable arts showcase by Takapuna Grammar School Textile Design students. Also this month, discover The Infinity Series by Sithma Methmini Illangasinghe in the DEPOT Lounge, opening 31 July, Laurette Looker's Linger at 3 Vic Road opening 14 August, and Alchemy by the Studio D3 artists, opening 27 August with Open Studios on 29 August.

2 24 H De Devon If you're feeling inspired, join us for Paint & Sip, book a Paint Your Own Ceramics and a

1 Fleet Street, 1 Fleet Devonport Street, Devonport 1 Fleet Street, Devonport 1 Fleet Street, Devonport Phone 445 Phone 0483 445 Phone 445 04830483 Phone 445 0483 email: office@fleetstpanel.co.nz email: fleetst@ihug.co.nz email: fleetst@ihug.co.nz email: fleetst@ihug.co.nz email: fleetst@ihug.co.nz www.fleetstpanel.co.nz www.fleetstpanel.co.nz www.fleetstpanel.co.nz www.fleetstpanel.co.nz ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1971 1971 1971 1971 ESTABLISHED 1971 1971 Dennis Hale Dennis & Hale Nathan & Nathan Hale Hale

Kia ora koutou,

session, or explore our workshops in life drawing, collage and ceramics.

1 Fle 1 Fleet St P Phon email email: fle www www.fle

Visit depot.org.nz for more info and stay up to date by subscribing to our e-news!

Ngā mihi nui, Amy Saunders Director | Kaiwhakahaere, DEPOT amy.saunders@depot.org.nz Hale & Nathan

#1 Devonport Office 2021 - 2022 & 2022 - 2023

Team Jackie, Jane and Chelsea 021 458 797 www.teamjackieandjane.co.nz Cooper & Co Real Estate Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2006

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 36

Arts / Entertainment Pages

September 25, 2026

Young musician showcases songs before departure Local performer Tom Talbot will debut original musical theatre songs in two performances at the Rose Centre early next month before heading to London to pursue studies and a musical career. Takapuna Grammar School alumnus and University of Auckland music student Talbot has written a series of world-premiere musical theatre songs for A Night at the Rose, which will be performed by an 11-piece band alongside a lineup of Auckland’s most promising young musical theatre talent – many of whom have performed in local productions such as Oliver!, The Addams Family and Jagged Little Pill. The showcase comes at a pivotal moment for Talbot, who departs for London next year and aims for a career in musical theatre. “This show is a culmination of my creative ideas over the past four years, since my initial creation of Golden Screens, my first musical, to my most recent ideas around themes of love, loss, tragedy, death and hope,” says Talbot. “I have the joy of bringing together a selection of amazingly talented people I’ve worked with over the past four years, from school, university, [Auckland Performing Arts Academy] and community theatre. These people are immensely talented, and they are going to be great shows.” • A Night at the Rose, the Rose Centre, Belmont, 7.30pm Saturday 3 October and 4pm Sunday 4 October. Tickets, $25 from events.humanitix.com/a-night-at-the-rose. London-bound... Former TGS student Tom Talbot aims for a career in musical theatre We welcome all ages. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned player, there’s a place for you on our courts. Squash is fast, social, and a brilliant workout. It’s also a great way to make friends in the local community. Thursday social nights are for everyone. Come along, grab a racquet, and give squash a try. No experience needed. Just turn up ready to have a go and have fun.

Come and Play at Devonport Squash Club

Looking for a fun way to get fit and meet new people? Devonport Squash Club is a small, family-friendly club right across from Narrow Neck Beach.

Get fit. Meet People. Have fun.

We have plenty to offer beyond the courts: • A community gym to Community help you stay in shape. Gym • A local coach to help you learn Local the game or sharpen your skills. Coach • A licensed bar for a well-earned Licensed drink after your match. Bar • A club lounge available for hire, Club Lounge perfect for your next function for Hire or gathering. Set right by the beach, our club is a friendly spot to get active, unwind, and be part of something local. Bring the family. Bring a friend. Or just bring yourself.

SOCIAL NIGHT Every Thursday

We’d love to see you on court. Narrow Neck Beach, Devonport office.dscinc@gmail.com

September 25, 2026

Arts / Entertainment Pages

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 37

TGS performer returns for reprise of glowworm show Takapuna Grammar School Year 13 student Milla Rodrigues-Birch is playing one of the lead characters of Centrestage Youth Theatre show Hana the Glowworm, opening in Orewa this weekend. Milla, who this year has already had lead roles in TGS musical Legally Blonde and the Stage Antics production of Heathers, is excited about her latest chance to perform. The show and songs were written by award-winning children’s songwriter, performer and author Chris Sanders, who is a former TGS student himself. The show follows Hana the Glowworm, who teams up with Eel (played by Milla) to explore the world and learn all about creatures, native trees and music. It includes an epic stoat versus possum battle, dancing eels, plenty of jokes and top-tier tunes. “We know how busy [Milla] is, we were so happy when she was available,” Sanders said. Milla was part of a smaller version of the same show performed last year alongside the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, where she was part of the ensemble cast. When Sanders decided to bring the production back at a bigger scale, the orchestra recorded the backing tracks. The role of Eel has been expanded from just narration to being both narrator and an older-sister mentor to the title character. Sanders said the plan was always to ask Milla to play Eel. “We literally wrote it for her.” The rehearsal schedule clashed with that for Heathers, but a crew member involved in both productions was able to transport her between the two. Overcoming a few missed rehearsals and vocal strain from Heathers, Milla said she was ready for her next performance. She says her co-star Bella Whitaker (9), who plays Hana, is an ideal stage partner.

Orchestral backing... Milla Rodrigues-Birch (centre) in a version of Hana the Glowworm produced last year. Milla (right) is back for the show being performed to an orchestral track in Orewa “She’s a pro.” Milla says the backing tracks recorded by the orchestra set the show apart from other local children’s musicals. “The songs are so good,” she says. “The story is just two creatures out there exploring, which I think is really cool.” Sanders said a cast album would be released.. “[A cast album] has never been done before in New Zealand for a children’s musical, we’re really trying to step up the game.” • Hana the Glowworm, Centrestage Theatre, Orewa, 26 September to 3 October.

Former graphic designer inspired by natural environment Artist Joanne Barrett’s exhibition A Contemplation takes on the clutter of social media with paintings evoking minimalism and balance. Running at Satellite2 gallery in Victoria Rd from 25 September to 11 October, the show will have an opening event on 26 September from 12pm to 3pm. Barrett (Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Pākehā and Native American) was encouraged by her father to pursue creativity from a young age, finding creative inspiration in her teenage years through kapa haka, taaniko weaving and art classes. She was accepted into an ATI Graphics Arts Course in 1972, and went on to have a long career in graphic design. Now working full-time as an artist from her home studio in Te Tai Tokerau, she spends a few weeks throughout winter working through an artist residency at a church in Rawene. Graphic design has shaped Barrett’s practice, with her inspiration primarily tied to her relationship with the natural environment. She carves textural lines to signify whakapapa. These form the foundation for all her works. Layers are added to form conceptualised imagery as landscape or graphic compositions. Whakapapa at the foundation... A Distant Glimpse is among works in Joanne Barrett’s exhibition

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 38

Arts / Entertainment Pages

September 25, 2026

Art in the Park previewed at Devonport showcase

Getting an early glimpse... (from left) curator Linda McFetridge, Sue Stannaway of Bayleys and Sofija Matich of Art in the Park were among attendees at a preview for Art in the Park at Eden Park in November. Right: Artists Jenna Billman and Logan Bow.

The Bayleys Art in the Park Roadshow at Bayleys Devonport last week was an exclusive preview showcasing selected artworks and artists ahead of Art in the Park at Eden Park in November. Art in the Park is a contemporary art show co-founded by Sofija Matich and Cary Cochrane. Now in its sixth year, it is owned by The Eden Park Trust. Matich and Cochrane lead the show’s creative vision, curation, artist management and event production. Cochrane owns the Flagstaff Gallery in Devonport. Art in the Park runs from 12 to 15 November.

Enrolment Out of Zon ENROLMENTS FOR for TERM 4 2026 Students for 2019

TheforBoard Trustees of Devonport Enrolment Out ofofZone PrimaryforSchool Students 2019 invites applications for

out-of-zone places in Years 2, 4 and 6

for Term 4, commencing Devonport Primary School Mondayfor12 October 2026. invites applications out Enrolment of zone enrolments in at the school is governed by an Years 1, 2, 3, 4, 5scheme, and 6 details of which are enrolment for 2019 available from the school office.

Devonport Primary Schoo invites applications for out of zone enrolments in Applications close at 12.00 noon on Applications close: 17th Oct 1, 2,If the 3, number 4, 5 and 6 Friday 9Years October 2026. of Ballot Date (if required) - 24th Oct applications exceeds the places available, 2019 a ballot will be held for later that day and Please contact the school for parents notified of the outcome. application forms, or an Please opportunity contact to visit. the school office for further 445 0183 information or to apply. office@devonport.school.nz www.devonportschool.nz

Applications close: 17th O Ballot Date (if required) - 24th

www.takapunamovies.co.nz Facebook and Instagram @takapunabeachsidecinema

09 666 0714

Support your for the Please paper contact the school price of a cup application forms, or an of coffee. to visit. opportunity

Go to devonportflagstaff.co.nz and click on ‘Become a supporter’ at the top of the page.

445 0183 office@devonport.school.n www.devonportschool.nz

September 25, 2026

Arts / Entertainment Pages

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 39

Diverse environments to the fore in TGS exhibition Visitors can expect to be transported to environments as diverse as Central Otago, New York and the Amazon rainforest in Takapuna Grammar School’s upcoming exhibition Echoes of Environment. The exhibition will culminate in a fashion parade showcase. Technology textile design teacher Cait Farrow said the year 11 students had been asked to create an adornment, accessory or garment, based on a habitat of their choice under the banner of man-made, natural or fantasy. “We have works representing water, forest, flowers, an Alice in Wonderland fantasy theme and cityscapes like New York.” It is the second year the class has exhibited outside the school environment, and this year it has worked with the Depot arts hub. “It has been great working with Depot – they’ve made class visits and given students feedback so they have a new perspective on their work,” Farrow said. Emerson Yeoman is designing pants with a Central Otago-Mount Cook theme. “I was born in the South Island and my mum grew up there. I really love visiting the area and I’m into gliding too, so I’ve leaned into those interests with my design.” A natural undyed denim is the main fabric used for the Snake spirit... Textile design student Isabella Dias Rocha de Azezedo (left) pants, with green stitching and embroidery with her Amazon rainforest-inspired garment, next to the creations of twins detail to represent grasses. Fabric overlay Anameika and Emerson Yeoman, with teacher Cait Farrow at right. represents the mountains and hills with All garments are in various stages of completion. additional sheer fabric layering to recreate “lenticular” clouds. “This is my third year taking textile design at Takapuna Grammar,” said Emerson, who sews at home too. His twin sister Anameika is also in the class. “My inspiration is New York and the colour and textile I’ve used represent snow and winter,” she said. She has used polyester SHOWING NOW satin and lace to design her dress. “I’m very An Evening with Victor Hugo (M) 90min excited to be in the fashion parade.” Heart of the Beast (M) 102min Anameika plans to continue taking textile Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom (G) 80min design for the rest of her time at school. Forgotten Island (PG) 109min Isabella Dias Rocha De Azezedo is a Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie (G) 89min Brazilian international student who arrived Resident Evil (R16) 94min in New Zealand at the start of the year. Her The Rivals of Amziah King (M) 130min garment is inspired by the Amazon rainforPractical Magic 2 (M) 130min est. “It’s the heart of the planet and people LOMU (E) 108min don’t understand its importance. The forest Cycle of Time (M) 103min is being destroyed by pollutants and I’m & Sons (M) 120min using fabric scraps and plastic in my design SPECIAL EVENTS & NEW RELEASES to represent that.” The Vic A History of Film - tour and film 26 Sep, 1 & 3 Oct The main feature of Isabella’s garment is Mischief Co. The Wishing Department a snake. In Brazilian myths about the rain- Live Improv Comedy 1 Oct forest, a snake spirit protects the river. The Extra Lives - The Interactive Video Game Concert 2 Oct snake in Isabella’s design turns into the river. Now Hear This - James Nokise Live Show 6 Oct “I’ve purposefully used nothing new as my For more info on films & events go to thevic.co.nz project is about waste and using new materials would just add to that.” Isabella aspires to be a fashion designer after finishing school. to our partners • “Echoes of Environment”, at the Depot, and supporters Tuesday 29 September to Saturday 3 October. The fashion parade is on 3 October, 2pm-3pm. www.thevic.co.nz | (09) 446 0100 | 48 Victoria Road

Thanks

September 25, 2026

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 40

NEW LISTING

Stanley Point 118 Calliope Road

The Law of Attraction

Majestic, iconic, and historically significant, Margaret House is undoubtedly one of a kind. Resting on a flat and sunny 1,443sqm freehold site. Historically, Margaret House was originally built in 1903-4 for Frederick Prime J.P., the founder of an Auckland hardware company. In 1953-4, it was purchased by the Navy as an additional hostel and named Margaret House. It provided accommodation for both Chief Petty Officers and Petty Officer Service Women until the 1970’s.

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty

Beautifully presented, featured in the 'Fine Homes Tour of Devonport', she now awaits her proud new owners.

bayleys.co.nz/1470842

bayleys.co.nz

(unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 29 Oct 2026 View by appointment Natasha Pretorius 021 204 8384 Ian Cunliffe 027 227 9322 BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, DEVONPORT, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008