24 February 2017 Devonport Flagstaff

February 24, 2017

Visitor centre back in Devonport… p2

Performing magic for a sick friend… p9

Interview: heritage protector Trish Deans… p22

Major development planned for Devonport navy base Work is due to start next month on a $100 million building programme at the Devonport naval base, potentially adding high volumes of extra construction traffic

to Lake Rd over the next five years. workshop, $25m multi-storey car park and The Royal New Zealand Navy’s office building and $20m base headquarters “indicative five-year programme” for building, as well as $13m of other structures.

HMNZ Philomel includes a $50m dockyard To page 3

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Neighbours do battle on the water… Sam Bullock (above) won the New Zealand kite foil champs – but only just ahead of Lukas Walton-Keim, who lives on the same Bayswater street. Full story page 8.

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February 24, 2017

Info site is back – on Devonport’s terms

Devonport’s businesses are taking the bull by the horns and establishing their own Devonport information centre to promote the area.

Auckland Council abandoned its Devonport i-Site branch more than 200 days ago.

“If all goes well, we will have a lease for 3 Victoria Rd by March 1,” says Devonport Business Association (DBA) chair Dianne Hale.

It will be just in time for the World Masters Games and British & Irish Lions tour this year, which will bring thousands of tourists. The DBA’s board approved the venture last Monday.

The initial lease will be for 15-months. Then the building will be vacated for three months for earthquake-strengthening.

Hale says while this can potentially disrupt the workings of the new information centre once again, “it also gives us an out clause of the lease if for some reason we can’t make this go.”

“This will be our one and only opportunity

Call for volunteers With Devonport’s strong tradition of community volunteering, Devonport Business Association Chair Dianne Hale is hopeful enough locals will put their hands up to get a home-run information centre off the ground.

“I have a couple of names already,” says Hale. At a recent Devonport Network Meeting, local resident Lynn Dawson said she had list of a dozen volunteers who wanted to help out.

Potential volunteers can contact Dianne Hale at dianne@hale.net.nz

to have an information centre in that building.

If it doesn’t work, the building will be sold or leased out,” she says.

The centre will be entirely volunteer run. “It won’t be an i-Site like our old one with paid staff.

We have to run it on the smell of an oily rag as we have to pay proper rent to council, which was a big disappointment,” says Hale. Last year, the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board granted $30,000 for an information site at 3 Victoria Rd. None of the DBA’s own funds will be used on rent. Instead, the organisation will lease out part of the building to a tenant says Hale.

While ferry company Fullers is reporting record numbers making the trip to Devonport, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) seems to have lost interest entirely in supporting an information centre in Devonport.

“While they were supportive of our plans in the past and said they would give us three years of financial support, new staff seems to be focused on investing in social media,” says Hale.

Takapuna and Milford’s business associations, who only last June wanted to be part of a tourist hub at 3 Victoria Rd, have now also decided to put their funds into social media promotion.

Informally known as the old council building (as the former home of Devonport Borough Council and the Devonport Community Board), the site is owned by Auckland Council and run by its property arm on a profit-making basis.

“We want to keep the building in the community,” says Hale.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 3

February 24, 2017

Eliza a starter at Jets fun run

Sharing her medal... Jets runners leapt at the chance for photographs with Eliza McCartney Olympic medallist Eliza McCartney fired the starting pistol at the Devonport Jets Run just a day before her Rio games success was recognised at the Halberg Awards.

The former Takapuna Grammar student’s thrilling bronze-medal pole-vault won the award for New Zealand’s favourite sporting moment of 2017.

McCartney had her medal with her at the Jets run, and was happy to be photographed with the younger athletes, insisting that the kids wore her medal..

Before the event, she passed on some valuable pointers to families from her own experience. She suggested children try out as many sports as possible, as the

From page 1

Major construction works coming at navy base The construction is part of a $1.7 billion Defence regeneration plan that was approved last August. “New, fit-for-purpose facilities are required to cater for current and future capabilities,” Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee said at the time.

The timing of the Devonport construction programme is phased. Procurement for the multi-storey car park, a $3m temporary multi-purpose office building, a $3m smallboat storage and washdown area and a $1m ship-loading area is scheduled to start in March, with most construction to begin by October. times on website The 24-month-long class construction of the base headquarters is scheduled to start in March 2019, by which time the first projects are expected to be completed.

The largest project, the dockyard workshops, is due to start in March 2021, along with a $5 million small-boats maintenance workshop and a $1 million gatehouse at the south yard in Stanley Bay. The plans come on the heels of other

large-scale construction likely to occur on the peninsula during that time, including the Ryman Healthcare complex on Ngataringa Rd and Ngati Whatua’s approved residential development on the 7.25 ha Hillary Block in Belmont.

benefits of each could be carried into an eventual speciality. In McCartney’s case, the explosiveness learnt on a squash court has stayed with her.

When pushed about running though, she admitted never running more than one kilometre, as pace, not endurance, is her forte. And while she enjoys the competitive side of the pole vault, the real achievement was to better yourself, she said, which gave her common ground with the running group.

The Jets run offers 3km and 5km waterfront routes. It starts from the Navy Museum at the end of King Edward Pde at 6pm each Wednesday until 29 March.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 4

February 24, 2017

ADELE SUMMER STUNNER TWO DOUBLE VIP TICKETS TO BE WON BY 20th MARCH!

Team Jackie and Jane have VIP tickets to Adele to give away (valued at $750 each) for her first concert on the 23rd March. Every property listed with them between now and the 20th March will go into the draw. Get in fast! Call them today and you could be ringside at one of the greatest live shows coming our way.

On top of that Team Jackie and Jane are donating $50 per appraisal all year, to their cause SHARED BLESSINGS give a little, help a lot. The cause is to give local kids in need a great Christmas.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 5

February 24, 2017

Grenade alert: bomb scare closes street A grenade found in Devonport on Monday closed a street until it was dealt with by the bomb squad.

The grenade was discovered in a tree stump in the front garden of a Victoria Rd property. Police blocked off Victoria Rd between Owens Rd and Mozeley Ave until explosives experts arrived.

Police could not supply information on the status of the grenade by the Flagstaff deadline.

Devonport pets are one out of the box

An eagle-eyed reader spotted a cat being walked on a leash at Narrow Neck Beach (left). Apparently there were lots of dogs around. And one of the Flagstaff’s newest readers is Mandy the Magpie (right), who enjoyed catching up on her own story in the 10 February edition.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 6

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February 24, 2017

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February 24, 2017

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February 24, 2017

Bayswater neighbours foil the competition Is there something in the water at Beresford St? Sam Bullock and Lukas Walton-Keim, who live within metres of each other in Bayswater, are New Zealand’s top two kite-foil racers.

Bullock took out the 2017 New Zealand Open Kite Foil Nationals held at Takapuna over Waitangi weekend, where he won all 11 races over the three-day event.

Walton-Keim placed second, with consistent top-four placings.

When asked where they train, WaltonKeim points out of the window: “Mostly out there in Shoal Bay,” he says.

It’s also where he and Bullock met a year ago – on the water.

Bullock (24) started kite-foiling two years ago, and says the sailing experience he gained growing up in Napier prepared him well for the sport and competition. “I was just the fastest,” he says.

Walton-Keim (20) started foiling only six months ago, but has years of kite-surfing and paragliding under his belt, which helped him cope with the shifty offshore wind that dominated during the champs and is tricky for foiling, he says. The way to cope is to make sure you stay up in the air when the wind disappears for 10 seconds, says Bullock.

Good speed is key to foiling. “Foils can keep moving, even when the wind dies, because if you’re fast enough you create your own wind for a while after. It’s called ‘apparent wind’,” he says.

You don’t need a lot of wind to foil fast.

“In six or seven knots we can go three times the wind speed and get up to 30 knots.”

The wind was relatively light during the nationals.

“We mostly got up to the low 30s, but the last downwind leg was pretty fast and I overtook a few people,” Bullock says.

Bullock is off to Mexico at the end of March for the first of four stops in the Hydrofoil Pro Tour. He participated in two

The Beresford St boys...

Sam Bullock (with his trophy) and Lukas Walton-Keim, with their Bayswater training waters providing the backdrop tour events last year, but hopes to complete the series this year.

Walton-Keim could follow in his wake.

“If I get faster, I’ll go next year,” he says.

Round-the-island racers set off from Devonport for ‘supreme test of seamanship’ A challenging two-handed sailing race around the North Island leaves again from Devonport this year, as the triennial event celebrates its 40th anniversary.

The Devonport Yacht Club, in association with the Shorthanded Sailing Association of New Zealand, hosts the event, which starts at 2pm on Saturday 25 February.

Locals are invited to come and watch the

27 registered boats set off.

One-time “voice of the America’s Cup” broadcaster Peter Montgomery will fire the naval signal cannon for the race start.

Chris Leech, a past commodore of the club, says: “This event has a great tradition of being a supreme test of seamanship, as the water around the coast of New Zealand is some of the most difficult in the world.”

Scheduled Tainui Rd tree faces chop A resource consent application to remove a 20-metre high liquid amber at 35 Tainui Rd went out for public consultation – but few knew about it.

The tree is scheduled in the Auckland Council District Plan under Category D – Tree of Local Significance. Auckland Council chooses not to place public notices affecting Devonport residents in the Flagstaff. The public consultation period ended on February 22.

Cheltenham tree investigation The verdict is still out on the Cheltenham reserve pohutukawa trimming by nearby resident Julie Minns.

“Auckland Council will be sending the property owner a letter outlining the rules of trimming public trees. We have not issued a formal notice. The council will be undertaking some small remedial work on the tree to ensure it remains safe and healthy,” says Resource Consent Compliance Manager Steve Pearce.

Council confirmed the issue was still under investigation.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 9

February 24, 2017

Floyd works magic for sick friend Young Devonport magician Floyd Langdon hopes his new stage-illusions show at the Victoria Theatre is going to work like magic for his sick three-year-old friend David Westwood.

David has been diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 as well as Moyamoya Disease. He had six strokes last year and also has a small brain tumour.

David’s parents Lucy Bennett and Stephen Westwood grew up in Devonport. His grandfather David Westwood Sr was a long-time local dentist.

Young David spent much of 2016 in hospital or at the Wilson Centre, where he is learning to walk again.

Floyd (11) says that his friend had been sick for so long and it is “just not fair.”

“We went to his house not long ago and I played with David. We played with balloons and a fly swatter, did a jigsaw puzzle and played with some finger puppets. And I realised that he had not been home for a whole year and I just wanted to do something for him,” he says With the help of his mother Vicki Leopold, Floyd is puttting on a magic show at the Vic. The show also features professional magician Andre Vegas and Floyd’s new assistant (and godsister) Lady Alice.

“It’s an all-new show with proper stage illusions, new tricks, and always a new audience,” says Floyd.

Magic team… Floyd Langdon and mum Vicki Leopold Floyd has performed at The Pumphouse and Rainbow’s End in the past.

He is putting on two one-hour shows on March 5 – at 3 pm and 5 pm. Tickets are $20, available at the Vic or at thevic.co.nz.

All proceeds go towards David’s care.

Work by local artists Rob Tucker and Component (Sparrow) will be included in a silent auction as well.

Ferry services suffer hold-ups and cancellations Rush hour ferries between the Devonport peninsula and Auckland CBD were blighted by numerous cancellations and delays in January.

The exact number of cancellations is unclear. Figures provided by Fullers CEO Doug Hudson conflict with the number of text alerts about cancellations that passengers have received from Fullers.

Hudson says only two departures were cancelled in January, while the Kea was withdrawn from service for two days to have her hull cleaned. Another two Stanley Bay services were cancelled, he says.

However, text alerts obtained by the Flagstaff show that 14 Devonport sailings were cancelled in January – 12 of them “due to vessel breakdown” and the other two “due to a medical emergency”.

Hudson did not specify the number of ferry delays in January, but says the 2017 summer has brought an increase in passengers, especially on the Devonport service.

“Over busy periods, especially when there are up to three cruise ships in port, we have had to operate a secondary vessel alongside the Kea in order to keep Kea on time,” he says.

“With high numbers both unloading and loading, the vessels struggle to do so in the normal five-minute turnaround and this can have a flow-on effect.”

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February 24, 2017

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February 24, 2017

Parishioners voting on sale of St Augustine’s St Augustine’s on Calliope Rd seems likely to be the next heritage church going up for sale on the Devonport peninsula.

On 26 February, members of the Anglican Parish of Devonport will vote on whether to keep the Category 2 brick 1930 Stanley Bay church and its accompanying wooden hall, which was built with materials from an earlier church.

The future of St Augustine’s Church has been in question for more than a decade, starting with a 2004 engineering report that showed cracks in the building, says David Timmins, the parish’s people’s warden.

Timmins says an April 2016 asset review, which included an earthquake report, finally pushed the vestry to cease activity at the church and recommend its sale to the parishioners, whose vote decides the matter at parish level. The Anglican Diocese will make the final decision, but has indicated it would support a sale, he says.

At a recent information session, parish vicar Charmaine Braatvedt said that “the church is special to a lot of people”. But she questioned whether Holy Trinity, on Church St, needed a secondary church less than one kilometre away. “Is God calling us to put all assets in earthquake-strengthening, or is God calling us to do ministry?”

Braatvedt said patronage of St Augustine’s has been hit or miss for years.

“We used to have good turnouts at Christmas or Easter.” But other initiatives – a youth group, a new priest, services for speakers of languages other than English, art exhibitions, Stations of the Cross prayers and Taizé services – had not been a longterm success, she said. “It’s not for lack of trying, but it was always hard, hard work to get people to go there,” she said.

The asset review found that Holy Trinity’s own parish hall and vicarage also need earthquake-strengthening, but the wooden church was fine, Timms says.

Funds from a sale of St Augustine’s could go towards Holy Trinity’s earthquakestrengthening needs and help upgrade and extend the hall, he says.

Two other local churches have recently been sold.

St Michael and All Angels Anglican Church on Bayswater Rd sold in 2013 after a bitter battle between long-standing Bayswater parishioners and Takapuna’s Anglican parish, which was keen to sell.

It was purchased by Teresa and Danny Watson, who use it as a residence, run a pottery and karate school and are currently adding two more buildings on the back of the site.

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St Augustine’s could be the latest Devonport church to go on the market Also in 2013, St Paul’s Presbyterian Church was bought by New Zealand chess grandmaster Murray Chandler, who turned it into a national chess centre. The building is currently on the market again.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 12

Contributor to realestate.co.nz

February 24, 2017

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The Flagstaff Notes

February 24, 2017

By Rob Drent

I suppose having lived in Devonport for 25 years in five different properties, I was bound to be screwed over by a council renovation decison at some stage. And now it has happened.

Auckland Council has approved an addition next door which is oversize and non-complying without telling us a word about it.

How did this happen? In the rotting bowels of Auckland Council’s planning department, with ease, it appears.

In summary, the neighbours are digging underneath their cottage, demolishing a (pretty ugly) garage at the front, demolishing a lean-to out the back and extending. The application was non-complyng as it went over the allowable coverage for the 379sqm site. Almost 50 per cent (49.6%) of the site will be covered.

The amount of site coverage surely strikes at the heart of what is intended in heritage zones? A precedent has now been set for 50% on smaller sites.

Consultant planner Cherie Lane – a member of the team that helped get the Masonic Tavern turned into apartments and more recently helped getting height protections lifted on Devonport’s commerical centre – has had her mitts on this application as well.

She submitted to council for the applicants a glowing report on their development’s “less-than-minor” effects.

But we will lose light, privacy and peace and quiet. I’m not opposed to the renovation per se, but it is out of scale with the site.

It was signed off by council’s senior resource consent planner Jason Drury, however, as the effects for neighbours were “less than minor”.

Drury quoted extensively from Lane’s report.

The trouble is, neither Drury or Lane ever talked to us to see how the oversize renovation would affect the sun or privacy of our backyard. Although Lane says there will be no effects to potential shading or loss of privacy, the reports to council do not include

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shade lines – a key aspect of how a project affects neighbours.

I spoke to Drury who told me he had made a site visit next door but never came onto our property to get a look from the other side. This is the way it works, according to Drury.

Local Board members Dianne Hale and Grant Gillon saw the application, but can only advise officers of their views.

Gillon in an email to Drury asked: “Have the neighbours signed off on this?” There is no record I can find of a reply from council officers.

I’m no expert, but the new roof that will replace the lean-to will block substantial sun, and while complying with height-to-boundary rules, the size of the new building will affect our privacy and “amenity” – to use that somewhat empty catch-all phrase that litters planning law.

For us the effects are major.

Council is surely there to maintain the interests of ratepayers from both sides of the fence. The Resource Management Act, which sets out the regulations, is toxic. But councils’ interpretations of it are often flawed.

In this case we have been let down badly by the officials whose wages we pay.

The first thing we knew of the plans or the council’s approval having been given was when demolition started on Waitangi weekend.

Planning experts and council insiders we have spoken to were surprised that the renovation was approved without notification of neighbours given the large site coverage.

Our recourse? A High Court judicial review – estimated to cost $10,000 – of the council decision not to notify.

What we do will depend on a report of how much shade will fall on our property. The cost of a court challenge is huge but worth considering when compared with the value of Devonport properties today. I’ve spent a large part of the last 20 years as editor of the Flagstaff fighting to preserve what we have got in Devonport and see no reason not to do the same at home.

We have offered to meet the neighbours to work out a solution, but have met a deafening silence as this issue goes to press.

My advice to all Devonport homeowners would be to send council a letter to be kept on file for each of their neighbours. It would ask to be told when any plans are lodged on properties on your boundary.

Whether council gets in touch with you is another matter. In our experience, and no doubt many others, the authority has become pro development and is working for the applicant, not residents in general.

On a positve front, Devonport will soon have an information centre again – hopefully from March 1. The very fact that it will be community-based, run by volunteers, gets back to the grass-roots model that has been so sucessful in the past – far from the clutches of Auckland Council’s tourism arm, which has promoted Devonport very poorly on the ground over the last few years.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 13

with Donna Gustafson

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February 24, 2017

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February 24, 2017

Lock your bikes securely

Previously United Travel

CRUISING IN LUXURY AND STYLE

Lock ’em up... Community Constable Jasmine Bundle (left) and Bike Devonport’s Chris Werry (centre) offer advice on keeping bikes secure Cyclists are being reminded to be securityminded after a string of bike thefts around Devonport.

Police have received reports of seven stolen bicycles in the Devonport/Stanley Point area so far in February, and six for

January. They say cyclists should invest in a quality D-lock, record their bike’s serial number and keep their bikes locked away securely out of sight when at home. Any suspicious behaviour should be reported by calling 111.

Belmont Primary fundraiser targets great outdoors Belmont Primary School’s big annual fair – its signature fundraising event – will be held on 4 March, with the proceeds earmarked for outdoor resources.

These could include a bike track around the school, shade sails and updated playgrounds.

The famous annual Battle of the Schools will be a highlight, with seven different primary schools from the peninsula taking part. Fifteen teams will compete on various obstacle courses and at the end of the day one school will be crowned champion.

“It’s a great opportunity for parents to come along and watch their kids compete” says Belmont principal Bruce Cunningham, who has been overwhelmed by the generosity from the community and parents towards this year’s fundraiser.

“I want to say thank you to the wider community for getting involved so the kids can have good resources,” he says The fair starts at Belmont Primary School at 11am. The Battle of the Schools kicks off at 12.30pm.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 16

Contributor to realestate.co.nz

February 24, 2017

harcourts.co.nz

February 24, 2017

Contributor to realestate.co.nz

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 17

harcourts.co.nz

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 18

Letters

February 24, 2017

Disappointing response to better-design requests for Ryman Village As an objector to the proposed Ryman Healthcare Retirement Village at Wakakura Cres, I have been curious to observe just how a large and successful organisation like Ryman reacts to a substantial number of objections, as well as criticisms from well-qualified architects and planning experts who pointed out the shortcomings of the Ryman design and the lack of sunlight to many of the proposed units.

Effectively, Ryman was challenged to do something better than simply plonking its

standard buildings on this very special site.

In my view they had two choices: rise to the challenge and do something much better than the norm; or dig their heels in and say, “Bugger it, we’ve spent a heap of money getting this far, let’s continue and with our might we’ll win in the end.”

Sadly, but not unexpectedly, it would appear that they’ve decided to follow the latter course, Equally disappointing on the part of the three independent commissioners, was that

the offer to reduce the height of two of the buildings by one storey was not taken up.

This concession might have been taken as a small victory by the objectors and possibly satisfied them enough to not need to appeal?

Now the 300 objectors are faced with the costly business of appealing the decision.

As was pointed out at the hearing, the objectors weren’t against a retirement village in that location, they simply wanted a more sympathetic design for that special waterfront location.

It will be very interesting to follow the processes and see how this project eventuates.

Keith Humphreys

Questions still remain unanswered by MP Barry In my view, the traditional role of our local MP and local government has become blurred. The former Devonport Borough Council was very accessible to local residents, who could wander into the town clerk’s office for a yarn about concerns or contact a borough councillor easily.

As the Devonport Borough Council morphed into the former North Shore City Council and now Auckland Council, this has become more difficult. The Council Controlled Organisations are even more remote.

Some of us do not have time for our local MP’s invitation for tea and cucumber sandwiches and are reliant on your good publication to know her views. The recent addition of the one-page National Party sponsored propoganda page to your newspaper does not fit tbe bill.

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would like to know her views on: 1. The impact on local residents of the proposed intensification of iwi-owned land in Devonport and Belmont.

2. The proposed apartments on the Bayswater Reclamation.

3. Why, as Minister of Conservation, she approved the reduction in width of the mandatory 20-metre wide marginal strip to 6 to 10 metres at Torpedo Bay? 4. What, as Minister of Conservation, she is doing to remove the more than 50 squatters who have been illegally occupying baches on Rangitoto Island Scenic Reserve for over 70 years. Perhaps (former Mayor of Auckland) Sir Dove-Myer Robinson’s strategy for removing the baches at Cornwallis would be useful.

If our local MP refuses to reply, it might be time for a replacement.

Bruce Tubb

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February 24, 2017

Letters

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 19

Where are the Ryman architects?

It is heartbreaking to see the approval given to the Ryman development. Can’t Ryman see they have been gifted a site like none other – waterfront, in a beautiful, safe, and desirable neighbourhood. Who won’t be banging at their doors for accommodation – money for jam. Why then no qualified architects to do the design work and provide a development worthy of its site? The result should be gratifying to the community it will be part of.

Ryman’s cheap, cookie-cutter, one-sizefits-all, gulag-style buildings dumped on this rare site of great opportunity is the problem.

Does Ryman think that if they repeat “high quality development” enough times we’ll start to believe it?

Other Ryman’s villages are notoriously ugly, and the drawings for this development show we’re getting more of the same. The Ngataringa development has a remarkable absence of design capability – orientation, typology, sustainability, context, sensitivity, creativity and beauty, are design basics excluded by Ryman’s arrogance. Their arrogance played out in their total disregard to concede to recommendations of the Urban Design Review Panel, who are experts in

design and the built environment. Is this development what was meant when Bill English told Local Government NZ Auckland might “have to get a bit ugly” in order to meet the housing shortage? Bad design cannot be mitigated and the fallout of bad design is borne by the local community and the occupants for 100 years or more, long after the Ryman’s management and the commissioners who granted permission (and who think the design solution is adequate) have disappeared.

In conversation recently, a friend mooted Ryman’s approach to design was to depress its residents into an early grave and therefore increase its turnover. Good for the shareholders.

The Ngataringa site is complex with a lot of challenges. But good design turns difficulties into opportunities and it requires trained and skilled professionals to do this well. Ryman has employed specialist consultants for geotech, structure and planning, but who are their architects? Do they have such contempt for good design that they are conspicuously absent? I would ask Ryman’s management – would they have their family doctor do their open-heart surgery?

S. Jeory

More than meets the eye in the recycling story As someone who is passionate about the benefits of recycling, it gives me no pleasure to take issue with the director of the Devonport Community Recycling Centre, Andrew Walters. One would never guess from the glowingly complacent account he gives of its achievements (Flagstaff, 10 February), in response to Keith Humphrey’s letter (27 January), that in fact its mechanical operations and work practices have been causing constant intolerable noise and stress to local residents – to the extent that 40 of them have signed a petition to Auckland Council, demanding that something be done to address this issue.

Despite numerous phone calls to the council’s noise control officers, who spoke to the operator, informing him that the noise was excessive, it was not until councillor George Wood and local board member Grant Gillon

contacted environmental health and waste management staff that any improvement was forthcoming. At the time of writing, we’re still not at a level appropriate for a residential area.

It should be mentioned that prior to the new environmental charity taking over, neighbouring residents who had lived near the recycling centre for many years had never had a problem with the level of noise. The new management still seem to be oblivious to this aspect of their “amazing” achievements, even though by now they have been made fully aware of the impact to their neighbours of their industrial approach to the business of recycling. Sustainability surely also includes reducing noise pollution, along with other pollutants. And community means being good neighbours, which at this point in time the recycling centre certainly is not.

Julia Cowdell

Reserve trees neglected by council Over the last two years, I have regularly called and emailed council and requested that the trees on Cheltenham reserve at the south end of Cheltenham Beach be pruned for safety reasons.

My family and I are frequent users of this area.

My calls have been acknowledged and dates for the work given. Each date would come and go and no work would be carried out. I am not surprised a resident who has experienced the same inaction from council has gone ahead and pruned one of the trees herself, because she was sick of waiting for action. The trees are a wonderful asset to the reserve and afford important shade all year round. For 20 years,

I lived with seven large pohutukawas on my property. Every two years they needed professional pruning under council supervision.

They grow quickly and can shed large branches when you least expect it. A resident carrying out work the council has neglected to do (after numerous formal and courteous requests) is an act of initiative with health and safety in mind.

The tree has not been damaged as a result of the resident’s pruning. If the council considers this an act of vandalism they should think again.

My records show council vandalism as a result of radical inaction over a two-year period.

Grant Alexander

OUT & ABOUT with MARIA TEAPE 445445 95339533 | maria@devonportpeninsulatrust.nz | dportcomm@xtra.co.nz

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Bring a hat, water, contact Carolyn or Maria onFor ph:more 445 9533. and register upon arrival. info, contact Carolyn or Maria on 445 9533 or COMMUNITY NETWORK MEETING maria@devonportpeninsulatrust.nz Thursday 12th November - 12 noon deVonport FAMily 10am Fun trAil Devonport Yacht Club, 25 King Edward Parade Marchto–promote register networking between A sunday quarterly5th meeting at Windsor reserve,groups. among10am-11am residents and local community eventnew concludes at devonport 1pm.

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All welcome morning tea9533 provided. email maria@devonportpeninsulatrust.nz Contact Maria on phone: 445 9533 or email: maria@devonportpeninsulatrust.nz suMMer Fun preschool plAy tuesdays 9:30am-11:00am at Windsor reserve PLUNKET SPRING FAMILY FUNDRAISER thursdays, 9:30am-11:00am at Bayswater Sunday 22nd November, 10am on park A FREE funRooms, time for to play with Plunket 1/3preschoolers Wairoa Rd, Devonport big toys, be the active andwith to make new castle, friends.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 20

February 24, 2017

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February 24, 2017

Letters

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 21

No intention to harm Cheltenham reserve tree You wrote a front-page article re a complaint about me, which ended in an accusation of “disrespect to the community”.

I trust you will print a follow-up article that details the resolution of this matter and clears my name.

I trimmed two minor branches of the large pohutukawa tree outside my home for safety reasons, as I was told by council I could do so.

Following the complaint, I again phoned council to check my rights. I have a date, person’s name and reference number for my call. I asked to speak to the person in charge of trees in public parks. They took my address and exactly located the tree in question.

They put me on hold while they looked up the regulations, then told me it was not a protected tree and I was allowed to trim it to my property line. This is the same information given to me a year ago by another council person and it’s the information I acted on.

The tree was planted close to my house and a tree branch had grown to within two metres of my bedroom window. In the storm three weeks ago, a branch section as big as myself tore off the tree in 75km/h winds and was hurled against that window in the night.

I realised that had the glass shattered, the shards would have been driven into my face while in bed.

The tree is supposed to be on a regular

maintenance schedule. I have enquired about it but have not seen it.

Last year, I noticed council arborists pruning the neighbouring tree and asked them if they were also scheduled to do maintenance on this pohutukawa. Despite being told “yes”, council arborist records show this work was not undertaken.

Last week, the contracted arborist told me not to expect maintenance on it for “a year or more” as they are under-resourced. The same arborist verified that the tree is not harmed and will readily regrow from where it was pruned.

They also corrected the information given to me by council. The tree is deemed council-maintained and must be maintained by council arborists in future.

Although I, as a private citizen, was not able to effect maintenance on the tree, now that there is media attention, a few days ago maintenance was carried out. My safety issues were resolved and the public using the bench under the tree can now see the water view, which had been obscured by leaves.

Personally, I love the tree. It is a sculpture, shade provider, and beautiful in red Christmas flower. I believe trees have rights as do people and property and that it’s necessary to balance co-existence.

From this incident it can be established: 1) The tree is not harmed.

2) Council has moved to improve the tree for public enjoyment and property safety.

3) Council has received information to assist staff to better serve the community.

4) I have received clarity of my rights from a qualified source.

I am distressed by the Flagstaff ’s sensationalist form of journalism. You printed my name, address and a photo of my home in regard to an uninvestigated accusation.

I live in a very public location and have been humiliated and abused by people on the beach who assume from your article that I don’t respect the tree and our community.

I hope you can see from this letter that this is not so and that you will take steps to clarify the situation to our community.

Julie Minns • The Flagstaff stands by its story.

We investigated the issue after telephone calls and emails from residents concerned about what was happening to the tree.

These trees are on a public reserve on one of the most visited beaches in Auckland.

Auckland Council is continuing an investigation into this case. Chopping back beach trees without council consent is not something we support.

Rob Drent, Editor

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 22

Interview

February 24, 2017

Fighting for the past to enhance the present Trish Deans has been fighting for Devonport’s heritage for more than 22 years. She’s as staunch as the day she started.

Deans is part of the newly incorporated Devonport Peninsula Precinct Society that is taking Ryman Healthcare to court over its Ngataringa Rd project and is launching a new heritage-preservation group in Devonport. She spoke to Maire Vieth.

Trish Deans says one of the most important things her late husband Joe taught her was how to have a good row. The expert instruction has left her particularly well equipped to fight for Devonport’s heritage.

Heritage pres ervation is inherently adversarial, says Deans. “It’s because of how the planning process is set up. If you don’t agree with an application, you have to oppose it.”

Conflict didn’t come naturally to her, but Joe was a Scot. “In New Zealand we like to avoid conflicts, but when you live in Scotland, they like to argue. A good argument in the family or at work is necessary to clear the air. They call it ‘having a row.’ You are expected to be good enough in your oratory to have a good row, to have a point of view, a strong opinion and to stand your ground,” she says.

She has come full circle and has enrolled in a Masters of Art’s degree in Conflict Resolution at AUT University.

Recently, she helped others prepare for an important local row: doing the paperwork to turn the informal Ngataringa Bay Action Group, protesing Ryman Healthcare’s proposed retirement complex, into the more formal Devonport Peninsula Precincts Society Incorporated.

The move reduces the financial risks locals take on in their Ryman Healthcare challenge.

“This is a group of residents, many of them with young children, and I don’t want to see them put their homes at risk as they challenge a goliath company,” Deans says.

Fundraising for the group’s legal costs is next on her list of things to do, she says.

Deans supports the group’s broadened brief from one site to six similarly zoned precincts on the peninsula, all of which are owned by A T HE EM

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Preserving the best of Devonport…Trish Deans Ngati Whatua o Orakei.

As a founding member of Devonport Heritage, Deans has been writing submissions on the planning rules for those precincts since 2013. She also understands the risk of taking a developer to the Environment Court.

In 2016, six years after they lost the battle against Redback Develop Ltd to preserve the Masonic Tavern, Devonport Heritage was pursued for $20,000 court costs by Baycorp.

With “never more than $400 in the bank”, Devonport Heritage, which was founded in 1994 by a group of local women sitting around a kitchen table, had to fold.

Over the next two decades, Devonport Heritage helped changed the way residents and council treated heritage buildings. Its sweep of achievements included: helping get a pre-1930 blanket demolition ban into North Shore City Council’s District Plan; preserving the barracks on the summit of North Head; lobbying the Royal New Zealand Navy to transform its Torpedo Bay heritage structures into the Navy Museum; taking the Masonic redevelopment to court; as well as battles to save individual properties.

And a Devonport heritage group is far from a thing of the past. In April, Deans wants to kick off a new preservation society. She has already drafted a preliminary set of rules to

be presented at a public meeting. Deans hopes the group will attract fresh members, “with a new dynamic and a fresh set of ideas to form community opinion around heritage issues and communicate any challenges widely across Devonport,” she says.

“We almost got it right in the Unitary Plan with the protection of Devonport’s pre-1944 houses and structures, but there will be issues and loopholes coming up nevertheless.

“The immediate ones are case-by-case decisions on four-storey buildings in Devonport village and what will happen at the Fort Cautley precinct,” she says, referring to the 3.2ha Ngati Whatua property on Vauxhall Rd, which is leased by the Navy. Its zoning is similar to the land Ryman wants to develop.

Deans says she cares about New Zealand’s heritage so much because, like a person, a country needs to know where it comes from to form a strong sense of identity.

“For New Zealand, which is such a young country, physical heritage can represent that knowledge. It would be a shame if we could not turn around and see what we once were,” she says.

She has a local example. “I love the North Head barracks and the Officers’ Mess at Narrow Neck, and knowing what they are even though I am not really interested in military

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 23

February 24, 2017 history. But on Fort Cautley is the 1933 New Zealand Artillery Headquarters building, which became a hospital and then a place for immigrants. All that tells us a lot about who we are,” she says.

Deans is proud of her own home, a stucco bungalow on Tainui Rd. “My house is 103 years old and I am so happy about that,” she says.

When Deans moved to Devonport 25 years ago, the house was in near original condition, with Arts and Crafts elements at the front and villa windows on the side. “The use of rough sawn timber at the back tells the story of supplies and labour being short at the beginning of the war,” she says.

Deans preserved that history. “When we had to replace timber, we made sure we used rough sawn timber again,” she says. She is also proud to have three listed trees on her property. A majestic Gingko at the front was there before the house itself, she says. Deans listed two pohutukawa trees in the back garden herself during the 1990s.

While Deans loves authenticity she is not a militant purist at home. “Joe being Scottish, he designed Rennie Mackintosh stained glass windows for the bay window in the lounge.

That’s been our addition to the house.”

Modern houses are not off the table in Deans’s vision of Devonport. “First it’s about keeping what we have got and the applications for demolition coming in now are all for post1944 houses, which is great.

“If we do that, it is fine for modern houses to be added into that. Devonport can withstand that, as long as scale and bulk are taken into consideration,” she says.

Deans grew up on a Waikato dairy farm between Pirongia and Te Awamutu, where most farmers didn’t appreciate old buildings.

Her father had a knack for spotting old stone adzes while walking across the fields with his daughter, and for telling her stories about Waikato’s Maori Princess Te Puea.

“My mother was from Auckland and

would tell me stories about Ngati Whatua and the confiscation of their land. So I got the sense it was always there before us, from both of them.”

Deans also inherited her mother’s zest for community involvement. “She was on every committee possible in Te Awamutu – the RSA Women’s section, the Country Women’s Institute, the competitions society’s committees. You name it, she was on it,” she says.

Deans was one of only a few local students to go to university and the first in her family to do so. “My father left school just before World War 2 at age 12, my mother at age 15.

But they read, listened to the radio and were very interested in everything going on and were committed to my education,” she says.

“It would be a shame if we could not turn around and see what we once were.”

Deans’s first encounter with Devonport’s heritage occurred while studying English, Anthropology and Art History in Auckland and flatting in a cottage on Clarence St for a year.

But when she and her first husband finished their degrees, they found that Auckland houses were too expensive for them. “Our wages were too low, I think about $8,000 a year,” she says. In 1977, they moved to Melbourne.

They lived in the suburb of Geelong for

eight years, had two children, and bought an old house for $24,000 and did it up. “It had barley sugar windows, twisted woodwork, and the wooden front of the house was carved to look like bricks. It was just beautiful,” says Deans.

Her enthusiasm for heritage buildings grew and Deans became chair of the Geelong West Heritage Association, which targeted young families doing up the suburb’s run-down houses, she says.

The family returned to Auckland in 1985, bought and did up an old house in Mt Eden, then another one in Herne Bay. When the marriage ended, Deans bought and renovated a house in Mt Eden before moving into the Tainui Rd do-up with Joe Deans.

“I have done up five houses, while working, studying and raising children,” she says.

Deans completed a Teaching Diploma at the Auckland College of Education in 1990 and embarked on an impressive teaching career. She worked at Lynfield College for eight years, teaching English, followed by five years as Head of English at Henderson High School, and eight years as Assistant Principal at Kelston Girls College. In between, she and Joe, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Auckland, lived and worked in Glasgow for a couple of years.

When Joe was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2013, Deans retired to look after him until he died in June 2015. “Until then, we made life as idyllic as it is here in Devonport,” she says.

Last year, Deans went back to work, teaching English part time at Takapuna Grammar School. She also ran for the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, narrowly missing out on a seat.

This leaves room for more community activism in 2017. “I’ll stay involved with the Devonport Peninsula Precincts Society, will kick of a new Devonport heritage group, volunteer at the Devonport Museum and take a bit of time to smell the roses,” she says.

And there might be the occasional row.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 24

Devonport 09 445 2010

Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club

February 24, 2017

February 24, 2017

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 25

Devonport 09 445 2010

Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 26

February 24, 2017

Devonport 09 445 2010

Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club

February 24, 2017

Devonport 09 445 2010

Major sponsor for the North Shore Cricket Club

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 27

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 28

February 24, 2017

Benjamin’s last catnap

Benjamin, the Devonport Library cat united locals one last time during a special celebration of his life.

Poems were read, anecdotes told and tears shed as around 200 people, whose lives had been touched by the tabby, gathered in front of Benjamin’s cat door to pay their respects.

Even Radio New Zealand’s John Campbell’s Checkpoint radio programme reported on the event as it began.

Library Manager Sue Parr described Benjamin as an “extraordinary individualist but communal cat”.

He had made the library home for 11 years, but enjoyed the custom-made cat flap at the new library for the last two, she said.

“It was a huge comfort to us to know on a cold, wet, windy night that Benjamin had the library workroom as a refuge,” she said.

“This is Benjamin,” said librarian Anne Bucholz, holding up a tiny wooden urn, before she read a poem she had written for him.

Devonport Library Associates member Denys Oldham said Benjamin had “life membership” of the facility.

Devonport-Takapuna Local Board member Mike Cohen spoke of “losing another colourful Devonport character who

Fond memories... Dianne Hale (above), chair of the Devonport Business Association, signs the condolences book for Benjamin, next to a portrait by librarian Jeanne Clifton’s husband Gordon.

Eight-year-old Olivia Wilson (right) said she always stroked Benjamin at the library, adding that “even though he once scratched me, I still loved him.” A large crowd gathered (below) to celebrate Benjamin’s life.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 29

February 24, 2017

Farewell Benjamin... Above: a last touch for the box containing the famous cat’s ashes. Left: Charlotte Perry with daughters Olive (standing) and Violet. Perry and her late husband Virgil Evetts were Benjamin’s original owners. turned the library into something of a home”.

Local vet Neil Waddell said Benjamin, notorious for defending his territory from dogs, would occasionally be brought to see him after he had been in a fight.

“Soon after, his victims would show up, dogs with ears dripping blood,” he said.

Benjamin was originally owned and named by Charlotte Perry and her late husband Virgil Evetts. Perry, who attended the event with her daughters Olive and Violet, recounted how Benjamin had been drawn to the library since he was a kitten and increasingly wanted to spend more time there

and less and less time at home.

“He eventually spat and growled at us, so we let him go,” she said, thanking the community for taking care of him for such a long time. Another Devonport resident Deb Jacobs concluded: “He brought us all here together and made us a better village.”

Paying their respects... Below left: Some of Benjamin’s many friends and admirers arriving for a last goodbye. Below right: Librarian Anne Bucholz, Benjamin’s main carer, with his ashes.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 30

February 24, 2017

Memories of a moggy The Flagstaff asked readers to send in photos and memories of Benjamin, Devonport’s much-loved library cat

A lie-down with creature comforts Exactly two weeks before Benjamin died, my boyfriend and I lay down in front of the library on our way back from having dinner in town. Half an hour later, we were allowed to leave (when Benjamin resumed half-heartedly hunting for birds).

Dorothy (& Glen, photographed with Benjamin).

Asserting his dominance…

Benjamin was friendly but you knew who was the boss

Are you being served?

All very sad here over losing Benjamin. We will miss him strolling in to keep us company while working and seeing him sunbathing out the back, which was one of his favourite places to sleep.

I took this photo in 2014. I think it was while the library was being renovated, so we thought he might have popped in to see if he could find a “rental” while his home was being upgraded!!

Pat Myers, Barfoot & Thompson Considering alternative accommodation... Benjamin on a visit to Barfoot & Thompson

Pat and a chat with the library cat I saw Benjamin just before Christmas. I didn’t know his name, I just knew him as the library cat.

I went to the ASB to get some money out early one morning and Benjamin wandered across the road to the library.

So I went over and gave the old boy a pat and we had a wee chat about life as a Devonport cat.

It’s very sad that he is gone, as he was a well-loved Devonport cat.

Kim

The backyard napper Benjamin meant a lot to Gerry and myself. We like to think he was among the first creatures to welcome us when we moved to Devonport – and New Zealand – seven years ago.

He would visit us at our first home in Buchanan St, especially when he wanted to take a break from the weekend crowd and have a nap in our backyard...

We’ll miss you Benji, love you forever.

Stefania and Gerry Making himself at home…

Benjamin spreads the love

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 31

February 24, 2017

Benjamin sculpture memorial planned Sculptor and librarian Fiona Startup is hoping for donations from the community to fund materials for a cast-bronze sculpture of Benjamin the library cat.

The idea to immortalise the popular cat came from Startup’s family and Anne Bucholz (who was Benjamin’s chief caregiver).

“It would be a very fitting way to remember this cat about town” says Startup, who has offered to create Benjamin’s sculpture for free.

A service held for Benjamin on February 9 at Devonport Library, drew 200 people. Many people shared their memories and stories about Benjamin.

“I was so touched by the farewell. This ordinary moggy cat has brought this community together – from kids to the elderly, everyone has been touched by Benjamin,” says Startup.

She says the sculpture design came to her quickly and she sketched it up straight away.

“Benjamin – alert, looking out for local dogs, sitting on a pile of books,” captured his character, she says.

Startup believes the sculpture will be loved by local sand tourists alike. Everyone who has seen the sketch and heard about the sculpture has been supportive and thinks it is a great way to remember Benjamin, she adds.

News of Benjamin’s sculpture has quickly spread around town, and donations from individuals and businesses are already being offered.

Richard Wells of Artworks Foundry thought the sculpture was such a great idea that he decided to become a major sponsor, offering the materials for $9000 instead of the estimated $25,000 that it would usually cost.

“Richard is very skilled at creating artworks and it is a very complicated process” says Startup.

“I might even need a cat model to stand in for Benjamin.”

She visualises the sculpture sitting on Windsor Reserve, in a spot where the bronze will be warmed by the afternoon sun.

“I can see his head turning shiny from people stroking him,” Startup says.

While the sculpture needs approval from the local board and Auckland Council, Fiona hopes it will be installed in time for Art Week in October. It is estimated $10,500 will need to be raised to cover the cost of casting and installation.

A Givealittle page will be set up for donations. Please email benjaminthelibrarycat@gmail.com for regular updates or to express an interest in donating.

By Emelia Lake

A golden cat rembered in bronze… Fiona Startup with a sketch of what the Benjamin sculpture may look like

Osteopathy is a hands on therapy that successfully alleviates a wide variety of symptoms. The Devonport clinic has been running for 14 years helping young and old alike.

ACC Registered Tel: 09 445 6783 for an appointment 19 Clarence St, Devonport Village

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 32

February 24, 2017

Best yet – Folk in the Park 2017

A good day out, Devonport style…

Ann and Rob Allen were music to each other’s ears just two days before Valentine’s Day

The best holidays are created together.

55 V ICTOR IA R D I 0 9 4 4 5 42 1 1 I D E VO N P O RT.C O. N Z

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 33

February 24, 2017

This year’s Folk in the Park was “the best one yet,” according to the Devonport Folk Club’s Hilary Condon and Roger Giles, who have run the event since 2008.

A record crowd of around 350 attended the event.

“We got the sound right at long last,” said Giles.

Moving the stage from the band rotunda down to the grass was a big part of it, he said. “And nothing’s gone wrong, especially the weather,” added Condon.

Devonport folk… (top left) locals and visitors of all ages gather to enjoy the music Dancing away… (from left to right above) Connie Ruff, Deb Jacobs and daughter Ruby (9)

Care Homes

Hugh Green Care Home.

Now open.

Understanding what you need is really important to us, so we can make sure your care is personalised and help you to live the best life possible.

The Shannon Gardens at Hugh Green is a lovely place for our dementia care residents to relax.

At Hugh Green we provide a range of residential care options. Talk to us to find out more or visit bupa.co.nz.

105 Apollo Drive, Albany Call Ian Dunthorne on (09) 476 1600 or 027 702 1648 bupa.co.nz

Classifieds

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 34 ACCOMMODATION Accommodation Suitable for mature student or retiree. Ground floor room, own entrance, ensuite. F/F non smoker.

10 mins to shops and ferry. $280 per week. 445 9514.

Cheltenham: 2 dbl br.

Private beach access, daily or weekly rent. Fully furnished.

Ph 445 3008.

Cheltenham Beach Studio.

Stunning studio with new fit-out only metres from the beach. Available for short or long-term holiday accommodation. Self-contained with separate access and private garden. Wi-Fi included.

Phone Mike 021 747 526.

Classy 3 bedroom, 2 full bath, fully furnished Devonport house on Achilles Reserve near Narrow Neck. More information go to www.devonporttuihouse.weebly.com or www.sabbaticalhomes.com.

Ph: 445 7895.

Holiday Accommodation, Bayswater. Norwood studio. Private, well presented. $95 per night. Ph 446 1203. flexmans@gmail.com Holiday Accommodation Cheltenham, absolute beachfront. One double and two singles, shady setting, everything supplied.

Ph 445 3008.

Housesitting or 2 bdrm rental required by mature, reliable professional couple renovating their own home from late March through to November. We work from home and have owned dogs and are happy to look after pets. Please call Annie on 021 626 632.

House Wanted: Group of working professionals, all in their 20s, looking for a 4+ bedroom house locally. We are reliable, pay rent on time and have been living together for over a year now. Preferably looking for somewhere for at least 1 year+. Contact Emelia on 021 0231 1681.

References available.

ACCOMMODATION Relatives visiting? Spacious garden studio with en-suite and kitchenette; minutes to Narrow Neck beach. Reasonable rates.

Ph Pauline 445 6471.

Reliable, responsible Canadian couple, a professor and wife retired civil servant are seeking to house-sit anytime in Jan, Feb or March. We will lovingly take care of garden, pool, pets and may even consider gentle supervision of teenagers. Devonport references available. Please contact pcribb@yorku.ca Stunning Cheltenham Beach Cottage, metres from the beach. Available for short or long-term holiday accommodation. Beautifully refurbished, one bedroom, self-contained cottage with a private garden. Phone Rebekah 027 694 3933 or email devonportbeks@gmail.com REST HOMES Ascot House Retirement Home, quality care with dignity in a friendly, family atmosphere. Phone Shona, 445 2518.

Komatua Care Centre – We care for older people who have memory loss and behavioural difficulties. Professional care is given in a nurturing environment. For all enquiries phone 445 1707.

Palm Grove Rest Home: A Non-Institutional style home providing compassionate, holistic care. Soul food and good people. Call Julia Nessim: 445-0009.

SERVICES OFFERED Broken cracked, missing?

Don’t throw it out. Handles, switches, hinges, rusty tools, cupboards, drills/knives sharpened - favourite plate/cup repaired. Loose rails, handles, door magnets. Missing parts recreated. No job too small.

No cure - no pay. 0224 600 684

SERVICES OFFERED At Your Request Home Cleaning. Our local team is ready to deliver 5-Star services in your home for weekly cleaning, spring, moving or open-home cleaning.

Call Yvonne for a free quote phone 415 0028.

Builder available Small-job specialist, repairs and maintenance. Skilled, reliable and local. Please phone Clive Melling. Hm 445 2485, Mob 027 29 222 84.

Cleaning Maid Easy Use own cleaning p r o d u c t s a n d g e a r.

Reliable/trustworthy/mature lady. References available Please contact Sharon - 021 405 596.

Curtains & Roman Blinds Free measure, quote and design advice. 20 years’ experience. Phone Sara 027 625 5844.

Devonport upholstery. Recover specialist. Antiques and contemporary styles.

Recycling furniture for 36 years. John Hancox. Phone: 446 0372.

Devonport Window Repairs. Sash and casement windows, wooden doors.

Rotten sills and window components repaired or replaced. General carpentry.

For your local window specialist. Phone Hubert Strang 446 6174 or 021 274 4191.

Diggadrain. Drain unblockers and drainage experts. CCTV drain locating. Repairs.

New drains. 0800 your drain.

Dog grooming available.

Full groom, bath and blow dry, puppy introduction to grooming. Devonport-based.

Call Barbara 021 141 0331.

Gardening hedges, shrubs, lawns and weeding. Experienced. One off/ongoing lawns, reliable + attentive.

Honest. No job too small, Customers pleased with work.

Bruce 0275 393 719.

SERVICES OFFERED G a r d e n e r Av a i l a b l e Qualified and experienced landscape designer.

Enjoys getting his hands dirty. Good plant knowledge. Hard-working, reliable and creative with plantings. Contact Paddy 022 502 2122 or 446 6188 paddyvogt@gmail.com Gardening. Do you need regular help? No time for a tidy-up? Let me help.

Experienced gardener. Ph Carolyn on 446 6517 or 027 292 8167 for a free onsite consultation.

Handyman. Mature professional in Devonport, Bayswater area. Repairs, painting, those jobs you just don’t have time to do. Free quote. References. Ph. Brian 021 150 8898.

H o u s e k e e p e r. H o m e cleaning, including windows. Experienced.

References. Phone 442 2273, 027 492 6220.

Housewashing, prof. service, 10 years-plus experience, reliable and prompt.

Free quotes, also decks, driveways, paths, fences, roof moss treatments etc.

Phone Rod 021 390 800.

Inside house cleaner Devonport, Belmont, Takapuna and Milford area. Phone Chris at Lifestyle Plus on 09 488-7279 or 027-245-6264.

Or you can email chris@ lifestyleplusltd.nz Interior Organising. I help busy people simplify and organise their home & work spaces, by creating environments for easy flow and function. Services include: move coordination and set-up, decluttering and hands-on coaching, closet design and home offices ~ organise installation. Phone Felicity: 022 0719 479. www.spacebliss.com

Real Estate

buying, selling, renting www.devonport.harcourts.co.nz licensed agent, REaa

CoopER & Co REal EstatE limitEd mREiNZ dEvoNpoRt

ESTABLISHED ESTABLISHED 1971 1971

February 24, 2017 SERVICES OFFERED Landscaping – Format Landscapes, 18 years’ experience, Dip. Landscape Design. Design and build.

We undertake all aspects of hard and soft landscaping including decks, paving, fences, retaining walls, planting etc. Small to large projects. Free quote w w w . f o r m a t landscapes.co.nz.

Call Matt 021 599 107.

Locksmith, Devonport’s own Scott Richardson.

Mob 021 976 607.

Master painter Qualified and experienced. Water-blasting and licensed waterproofing. Quality craftsmanship guaranteed, interior/exterior work.

Phone Chris 027 385 0406.

FREE QUOTES. Painting, decorating, restoration, reasonable rates ph Bernard 021 0255 5456.

Professional Make-up Artist - School Balls, Weddings, Fashion & Special Occassions.

Phone Stephanie Jane 021 116 8842 or email SJASharp@gmail.com Property maintenance and security these holidays.

Get peace of mind when you’re away knowing that your property is being inspected twice a week by a mature and experienced local handyman. Fee just $30 per week. Brian 021 150 8898 or northhead@ gmail.com.

Tagbuster, graffiti looked after Devonport to Hauraki Corner. Call the Tagbuster 0800antitag, 0800 2684 824.

TUITION Art Classes, Devonport artist available for tuition in drawing, pastels and other media, screen-printing, painting. Classes held in artist’s studio by the sea.

Children’s classes Wednesday after school. Contact Erica MFA, DipTchg PGDipAC 021 127 9671 or ericasoman@gmail.com Art Classes @ D’Port Community house: Wednesday night, life drawing; Friday morning, mastering art. Ph Lucy Bucknall – 446 0389.

TUITION Art Travel Sketching for beginners. Learn to find your creative side in a fun learning environment over 10 weeks. Kerr St Artspace Tuesdays or Saturdays. Ph Tony McNeight 021 925 031.TUITION Bridge lessons Beginners lessons (both day and evening sessions) at North Shore Bridge Club commence mid-March.

Phone Mandy MacLean 021 177 3743 or see Tuition at www.nsbc.org.nz Learn piano/keyboard.

Lessons from $19.00.

Private, Professional, Affordable, Enjoyment for all ages. Competitions, Practical, Theory Exams. NZ Modern School of Music 0800-696-874.TUITION Learning Support Specialist NZ qualified primary teacher and registered teacher of dyslexia.

Offering tailored tuition during or after school.

Ph 027 391 3716 or visit www.squigglesdyslexia. co.nzT Mathematics Tuition Available for years 9 to 13 by a retired maths teacher.

Phone Graeme 445 8575.

Mathematics Tuition, Sensitive tutoring offered at all levels of the secondary school curriculum. NCEA, IB and Cambridge welcomed.

100% pass rate in 2016.

NCEA 3 calculus specialist.

Ph Peter Ridge BE, Dip Tchg (sec) 445 2283.

Piano Lessons. Piano & music theory tuition from classically trained pianist.

Devonport-based and can travel to your home.

Ph 021 079 0005 or email windarc.darius@gmail.com Primary Tutor Maths, English, Health & Wellbeing and Drama for 5-11 year olds. School prep also available. Visit www. gschuwertutoring.com for further details. 027 410 6871 gschuwertutoring@ gmail.com Singing lessons in Devonport. Contract Dr Sue Braatvedt 473 9113 or 027 340 2884. All ages.

SLSS Swim School, 11 Evan Street, Belmont (off Eversleigh Road). Specialists in preschoolers. Phone 486 6728 for more info.

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

Reach your Devonport Peninsula customers cost-effectively

1 Fleet Street, Devonport 1 Fleet Street, Devonport Phone Phone 445 445 04830483 email: fleetst@ihug.co.nz email: fleetst@ihug.co.nz www.fleetstpanel.co.nz www.fleetstpanel.co.nz

Contact the Flagstaff for our rates and dates.

Dennis Hale & Nathan Hale

Email:

devonportflagstaff@orcon.net.nz Website:

www.devonportflagstaff.co.nz

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 35

February 24, 2017

Bike Devonport supports promotional bikes

Another community defibrillator installed

Stanley Bay will have a community gone ahead without the generosity of Paul defibrillator from this month – located at Jones (aka Paul Ego), husband of midweek treasurer Janine Jones, and the CEO of Ngataringa Tennis Club.

It is intended as a community facility for Heart Saver New Zealand (HSNZ), Mike Stanley Bay residents and the many users Mander. HSNZ is donating the defibrillator of Stanley Bay Park, in the event of an in recognition of Paul’s contribution to Heart Saver events and heart health. emergency.

Stanley Bay School is fundraising for a The new defibrillator is the result of an initiative by the midweek committee, which defibrillator and looks foward to soon being Bike Devonport has welcomed the use of organised a First Aid Course at the club. able to add a second device, which will also bikes parked in stands to promote businesses. The club says the project could not have be available to the area 24/7.

“It’s a positive image and exudes a certain feel-good factor and charm, aside from just Devonport Writers Collection launch being signage. These bikes actually remind The Devonport Writers Collection will council libraries, these titles will always be people that they should be hopping on one be launched at Devonport Library on 28 returned to the Devonport Library. themselves to ride into the village as a The Devonport Library Associates evening pleasant alternative to driving,” says Bike February, from 7.30pm–9pm. will celebrate the talent and achievement of The collection concept started in 2015, Devonport spokesman Chris Werry.

“Donna, the owner of Devonport Linge- with the idea that Devonport writers’ work these Devonport writers past and present.

The writers’ works will also be available rie, cycles to her shop before setting up the should have a prominent place in our local bike to advertise the business. Isn’t that how library. Unlike other books belonging to for sale on the night, courtesy of Paradox Devonport wants to be seen – progressive Auckland Libraries, which circulate to all Books. in the 21st century yet with that historic seaside charm?

Bike Devonport is keen to work with local businesses to install more bike parking.

“Switched-on places like Portland, In-store Naturopath and Pharmacists Oregan, in the USA have successfully formed such partnerships to rejuvenate Best product range neighbourhood shops. If a local business Best advice has taken a bike park with its signage, then Best service a nearby lampost is just as good for bikes,” says Werry. and now Best Prices with AA SmartFuel discounts “The same can’t be said if you can’t find a car park in the village.”

Contact info@bikedevonport.co.nz if    you would like a bike stand outside your 143 Lake Rd, Devonport • Ph 445 8247 Serving our area  business.    www.belmontpharmacy.co.nz   since 1989      Tips for trouble-free computing      Tips for trouble-free computing      Q:  A company called ‘SparkTrust’ offered me a free scan, which I accepted. It said it diagnosed 784        issues that could be‘SparkTrust’ slowing my offered computer speed etc (Systems, Junk, Software, Privacy, Malware.....)        Q: A company called me a free scan, which I accepted.

It said it diagnosed 784  have engaged a higher level of security on their     Xtra’s woes continue  The next step was to register for a subscription for which I will have to pay.

Until one registers one    (Systems, Privacy, issues that could be slowing my computer speed etc   email serversJunk, with aSoftware, functionality that isMalware.....) not present      appears not be told how much this will cost sofor I daren’t into case can’t out if theone fee  Lots of Xtra areregister still having   The nextcustomers steptowas to for aproblems subscription Iregister willXP have pay.I present Until back one registers    inwhich Windows but is advice. only in Windows 7      is exorbitant.

Is this a useful thing for me to do?

Would welcome your with their emails…. people can send butcost so Ionwards.   appears not to be told how muchemails this will daren’t register case I can’t back outhave if theafee    isin  What interesting is that if you          can’t receive them; the transition process to move is exorbitant.

Is this a useful thing for me to do?

Would welcome your advice.

A: Be careful with this sort of claim and offer.

I have never seen any program like this do anything of any worth    Slingshot, ClearNet or Orcon email address, this is            email accounts back to NZ fromtime the these Yahooprograms servers arenot significance.

Most rogue software or even malware, so come it really isworth best   a problem this this problem has about as  A: or Be careful with this sortofofthe claim and offer. I have never seen any program do anything of any  – so like       to avoid them altogether.

Besides, I have already installed some tools on your computer that will do these is causing problems; and on top of that, there have    a result of the changes that Xtra are making.   or significance. Most of the time these programs are rogue software or even malware, so it really is best     Upcycle your laptop sorts of clean-up effectively.

You don’t need anything else. tools on your computer that will do these  been several days ofjobs outages disrupting fibre,      to avoid them altogether.

Besides, I have already installed  Wanted: old laptops still in working   Xtra’ssome only solution to this is to suggest you log on    broadband and telephone services.  Upcycle your    condition to refurbish andlaptop donate to the  sorts of clean-up jobs effectively.

You don’t need anything else.

Q: I have a message coming up on my screen saying ‘Your computer is low on memory…    to Xtra Mail at www.xtramail.co.nz and read your    Wanted: laptops sillservice. in Wanted: old laptops still in working Red Cross Refugee      close or restart all open programs’ Why does this keep coming up?

I am using Windows 7.

Moving the email servers back to New Zealand is    condition to refurbish and donate tothe the    condition to refurbish donate there.  If you are upgrading, I will passtoon Q:  I have a message coming up on my screen saying emails ‘Your computer is low on memory…    Red Cross Refugee service.

Red Cross Refugee service. not going as smoothly as planned and some people your old computers to help refugees.      close restart all open Whyrather doesthan thisRAM keep coming up?

I am using Windows 7.

A: This is or actually referring to programs’ Virtual Memory and this message comes up when you have too   However, there are a few other alternatives: If you are upgrading, I will pass on    aremany getting all their and emails 2013,     filesfrom all Memory at2014, once. 2015 Multi-tasking does not necessarily mean you will getyou things done  your old computers to help refugees.

A: This isprograms actually referring toopen Virtual rather than RAM and this message comes upusing when have too    1) Buy a new computer! (ie one an up-to-date  and 2016 delivered to them again!

One local user     faster!

Close alland yourfiles programs, reboot the computer and all not will necessarily be well. Trymean not to have than done three  programs open allemails at once. does you willmore get things    operating system, Windows 10.)  hasmany had to download over 21,000 thatMulti-tasking he this problem    things open atall the same time, and you will avoid in the future.   faster!

Close your programs, reboot the computer and all will be well.

Try not to have more than three    has already received and already read!  2) Stick with Windows XP but change your email    open at the sameoftime, and you will avoid this when problem in theinfuture.

Q: things With this new version MS Outlook, I am finding typing an address for emails, there is       program frominMicrosoft Outlook / Outlook The issue about being able when to send but not receive  no automation.

Before I typed in a name, the address filled automatically.

That is not    Q: With this new version of MS Outlook, I am finding when typing in an address for emails, there is   Express to a very different email program such as  emails is, despite what the Xtramake helpdesk people happening now and would a large portion of my daily work slow.     no automation.

Before when I typed in a name, the address filled in automatically.

That is not    Mozilla Thunderbird are saying, not due to using an old email program    happening now and would make largethe portion of mycompletion’ daily work very slow.

A: That’s the way Outlook is, sorry.

I’maafraid ‘automatic of email addresses is a learned thing,       such as Outlook or Outlook Express, but affects WhyNew go anywhere else?!

Windows 3) Change your email address: eg, get a Gmail    Outlook will remember themI’m after youthe have typed them in /repliedoftoemail them once. Unfortunately there    A: and That’s the way Outlook is, sorry. afraid ‘automatic completion’ is a then learned Give me a call if you would like a  only those who are still using Windows XP. Outlook  address instead of anaddresses Xtra one and go thing, to Why go anywhere else?!  is noOutlook way to speed that learning process up, but it will come right in the end.  and  willisremember them you have in /replied to them once.

Unfortunately there custom-built new   computer –  2003 for example working fine onafter Windows 7. Astyped them the Xtramail website and set up Email Forwarding    this can be with Windows 10, Windows is noXtra’s way to speed that learning process up,they but it will come rightnew in the end.address.    part of improvements to email security, to your Gmail   8, or even Windows 7 if preferred.  Serving  Devonport Businesses, Home Users and the Devonport Community since 2001 

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 36

February 24, 2017

Takapuna SCHOOL NEWS

Grammar FEBRUARY 24, 2017

Student scientists have a great fortnight

Over 160 talented science students from all across New Zealand and Australia, gathered at the 28th Rotary National Science & Technology Forum in January. Four of our students were selected to represent the school: Katherine Jacobs, Harvey Merton, Emilly Fan and Poppy Ross. The goal was to explore the various areas within the STEM fields. The students were split into smaller colour groups and spent two weeks living in University Hall, the University of Auckland’s largest hall of residence.

Far from being stuck in a science lab all summer, the forum gave a taste of the diverse study and career options available in science and technology, with field trips and exposure outside their area of interest to foster the beginnings of a lifelong network.

The forum kicked off with an inspirational keynote lecture by Michelle Dickinson, better known as Nanogirl, followed by an ‘ethics in science’ lecture, “which was fascinating, partly due to the expertise of John Buckeridge from RMIT University and the debates that were generated,” explained Poppy.

Weekdays consisted of an hour of early morning activities – gym, volleyball, running, aerobics – before launching into the academic programme. Most days consisted of two lectures held at AUT, Massey University, or the University of Auckland. The lectures were an interesting mix of the conventional and the unexpected, with topics such as Psychology, 3D Printing/Computer Aided Design, Geological Science, Food Science, Robotics, Sports Science (Millennium Institute) as well as the more traditional Biology, Chemistry,

Physics and Mathematics.

Evenings were reserved for visits to hightech organisations such as Air New Zealand, ESR Forensics, and Fisher & Paykel, seminars from high-profile scientists or rounds of high-energy volleyball competitions. A visit to the Sky Tower, a disco, a beach day and team-building activities were interspersed throughout the two weeks.

“Despite the full-on nature of the forum, there was still time to relax and connect with like-minded students from different backgrounds,” says Katherine. The forum finished with a closing ceremony and a formal dinner at the Crowne Plaza hotel. This fantastic experience was made possible by the generous support of the Devonport Rotary Club and Rotary International.

BY EMILLY FAN

Welcome to our new staff

Welcome to our new staff: The departures at the end of 2016 of TGS teachers off to pastures new has heralded the arrival of a new bunch.

We welcome: Jordan Tricklebank and David Parfitt to the English Department; Judith Bottinga, Peter Stanton, Daniel Saxon, Yoomee Shin and Graham Atkinson to Mathematics; Jacob Moore and Robert Dil to Performing Arts; Anna Bruce and Adrian Riepen to Physical Education; Jo Goodwin to Art; and Sheenal Reddy

and Sophie Adair to Social Sciences. In addition, Ellie Going and Adam Watson have joined the Sports Administration team, Samuel Forde is in Student Services and Kate Prosser in Special Education.

Some of those who have left include long-serving Mathematics teacher and statistician Mr Peter Jaques, who has, taken an HOD position at Pinehurst, after 16 years at TGS. Also leaving on promotion after 16 years is Mr David Stent, who is taking up a lead role in Music at Dilworth.

Ms Jane Horder has gained promotion as Head of Performing Arts at St Kentigern’s College and Dan McQuillan has headed over the bridge to lead the Media Studies area at Auckland Girls’ Grammar School.

Others who have departed for positions closer to home and, in some cases, to promotion as well are: Emily Woodfield (Mahurangi College), Rachelle Roxburgh (Sacred Heart College), Matt Buckley (Macleans College) and Sharon Davies (St Mary’s College).

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 37

February 24, 2017

Takapuna

Grammar

SCHOOL NEWS

FEBRUARY 24, 2017

from the

iL on’s Den

THE LATEST IN SPORT

Hugs, hearts and huge teddy bears Hugs, hearts and HUGE teddy bears filled the school grounds as TGS celebrated Valentine’s Day. The atmosphere buzzed with love and friendship as soon as students entered the gates, anticipating receiving messages and serenades sent by secret admirers and friends. Hearts leapt with joy from touching messages, stomachs indulged in rich chocolate brownies and minds savoured the sweet melodies of serenades.

Prefects and many kind Year 13 students delivered the love notes to the lucky recipients. Some even received “greater” love and affection when the senders had upgraded their simple notes with cookies or brownies. A girls quartet and a boys quartet danced from one class to another with roses and guitars, serenading love songs that made the students very happy.

The photo booth captured the cutest moments of all – every face shone in front of the sparkling red hearts backdrop.

The prefects must be acknowledged for the successful running of this eventful day, especially Julia Giurgiu for organising the “deliveries” of love notes, and the amazing group of students who dedicated their time and talents to make this day an unforgettable experience.

BY IRIS LENG

FROM THE TRACK: Renee Young at the Auckland Track Cycling championships placed first in the U17 age group for Individual Pursuit, Match Sprint, and Scratch races, and second in the Points Race.

FROM LAKE PUPUKE: Head of Harbour Rowing Regatta (the Auckland Championships) • Gold for Nelly Farmiloe in the Girls U16 Single Sculls • Silver to Jack Featherstone and Evan Williams in the Boys U16 Double Sculls • Silver to Katie Halliday and Brianna Davey in the Girls U17 Double Sculls • Silver to Evan Williams in the Boys U16 Single Sculls.

FROM THE CRICKET PITCH: Standout match of the week was from the Year 9 and 10 Colts. Superb effort from Adam Little with 95 not out, and Jack Clough with 39, resulting in a total 188 runs to defend. Followed up by a true team performance in the fields, boundaries were saved, catches stuck and wickets were shared amongst the bowlers. Macleans College got close enough to cause some nerves at the finish, but fell short on 142. A great win.

FROM THE VOLLEYBALL COURT: The Premier Boys team, who play in an Auckland-wide competition, won against both Kelston Boys High School A and Westlake Boys High School A. The senior teams have had their first round of games. Boys A won against Westlake Boys 2 and Long Bay College. Boys B went down to Rangitoto A. The Girls A (Premier team) lost to Orewa A and top seed, Rangitoto A.

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 38

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February 24, 2017

PLUMBING

phone 0274 937380

Call Carl for all your electrical needs 0274 937380 or 445 7528

• • • • •

Solid Plastering Block-work Fireplaces Gib-stopping Small or Large Jobs

Phone Paul: 445 3154 027 493 8592 zipzap@ihug.co.nz

AND DRAINAGE LTD

Professional Quality Service • Gasfitting • Certifying/Licenced • Digger Hire • Plumber/Drainlayer • All Aspects of Plumbing & Drainage

Contact Dan info@obornplumbing.co.nz www.obornplumbing.co.nz 0800-143-051 or mob 021 119 3227

Sick of flushing money down the...

Repairs, refurbishments and new work for both Plumbing and Gasfitting.

• Quality workmanship • Interior and external • References available

Including gas heaters, instantaneous hot water systems and more.

Full project management and pensioner rates.

For all your Plumbing and Gasfitting needs Call the boss (Bruce) today on 0274 472 742

McMinn Plumbing Ltd

Contact: Brendan 445 3929

021 996 738

09 445 2415 minn@xtra.co.nz www.mcminnplumbing.co.nz

kitchens DESIGN MANUFACTURE INSTALL

Call our designers to bring your ideas to life. Free consultation.

10 year workmanship guarantee.

Phone 09 443 4461 VISIT OUR SHOWROOM:

96 Hillside Rd, Glenfield, Auckland Hours: 8 - 5 weekdays

www.neodesign.co.nz

Sam the Floor Sander Floor-sanding Polyurethane Water base Chemical base Stain

for FREE Quote Call 021 672 641

Guy Anderson

YOUR LOCAL CRAFTSMAN

PLUMBER

Friendly, experienced service for all of your plumbing needs.

CALL DERRICK TRAVERS

021-909790 445-6691

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

Painting and Decorating All commercial and domestic decoration undertaken. Interior and exterior decorating.

All wallpaper and fabrics. Expertly hung.

Skim coat plastering and stopping Specialist in decorative paint finishes, carried out by a tradesman with 25 years experience.

Competitive pricing.

All work guaranteed.

s

ar PHONE 445 2549 30 yreience e p x MOBILE 021 767 093 e

February 24, 2017

DEVONPORT DEVONPORT DEVONPORT AUTO AUTO CENTRE CENTRE

� Servicing � Full Full Vehicle Vehicle Servicing � Full Vehicle Servicing and Maintenance � WOF WOF and Maintenance and Maintenance � � WOF ANDRE WENDY CUMISKEY CUMISKEY ANDRE & & WENDY ANDRE & WENDY CUMISKEY

Ph 445 4456 4456 Ph (09) (09) 445 Ph (09) 445 Fax (09) 445 7629 Fax 445 4456 7629 Fax (09) 445 7629 1A Fleet Street, Devonport

Trades & Services

Barnett Bros.

SPECIALISING IN VILLA/BUNGALOW Barnett Bros.

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

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

LANDSCAPING EXCAVATION RETAINING WALLS BASEMENT DIGOUTS TIGHT ACCESS SPECIALISTS

EMAIL: reuben@aucklandoutdoor.co.nz WEBSITE: www.aucklandoutdoor.co.nz

Alan Michie Ph 445 3013 • 0274 957 505

ON ” EN CK SE LO AS E B H “T

Your local NZ qualified electricians for:  Renovations  Maintenance  LED changeovers  Garden Lighting  Ultrafast Broadband

Call Jordan

022 4567 367

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

Scott 021 188 7189 AllBarnett work guaranteed s.barnett.builder@gmail.com Licensed building practitioner Scott Barnett 021 188 7189

Barnett Bros. s.barnett.builder@gmail.com

SPECIALISING IN VILLA/BUNGALOW RESTORATION, RENOVATION & ALTERATIONS

Creating great looking, functional, outdoor spaces

REUBEN Mobile: 022 043 4526

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 39

www.kitchenvision.co.nz

55 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna

09 486 0811

EYE FOR DETAIL

Qualified builder and craftsman Carpenter available now for door/window/sash/cord/sil replacements All joinery repairs Villa Masonry All carpentry and associatedLtd • Brick work building services • Block work • Paving • CobbleHome driveways inspections • Paved Patios • Repair work Bathrooms No job too small!

All work guaranteed Scott Barnett 021 188 7189 villamasonryltd@gmail.com

Ph 09 551 3171 021 465 460

s.barnett.builder@gmail.com

LIMITED

Quality renovations or new projects 1. Foundations 2. Building 3. Gibbing and stopping 4. Painting 5. Tiling 6. Landscaping 7. Repairs and maintenance Your ‘one-stop’ building company new to Devonport providing qualified staff and competitive prices.

Contact Bernard Carey Phone 445 1331 or Mobile 0274 471 132

Interior / Exterior Residential Commercial Lives Locally Free Quotes /Quality Work For all your painting needs

Corey Norton M 021 0220 5444 | After Hrs 550 4218 email: cnorton@orcon.net.nz

• Fences • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Cabinetry • Alterations • Decks Call us on 09 392 2486 info@bdmconstruction.co.nz

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 40 s creat ge

nment th ro

g an envi in

encour a at

4 March - 22 March

February 24, 2017

Young director achieves lift-off with NASA award

FAIRBURN ROCKS

An exhibition of rare rock drawing panels hand-blocked onto fabric by the Devonport poet and artist A.R.D. Fairburn in the 1950s.

4-22 March Opening Sat 4 March 2pm

25 February

BOOK LAUNCH

The Roaring Silence is a compendium of 79 artists, writers and professionals on the topic of suicide.

All welcome to book launch

Sat 25 Feb 2pm

OPEN AGAIN Sat 25 February

www.depotartspace.co.nz Monday 12-5 pm Tuesday to Saturday 10-5 pm Sunday & Public Holidays 11-3 pm

28 Clarence St, Devonport Ph 963 2331

Short and sweet... Harriett Maire and Ferris Bradley took little more than a month to make their award-winning film Bayswater-raised director Harriett Maire has picked up a special category award in a NASA film competition in Houston, Texas.

The short film Lani’s Space, written and directed by 21-year-old Maire, follows the story of a single dad trying to understand his daughter’s obsession with space.

The former Takapuna Grammar student, along with friend Ferris Bradley, wrote, cast, filmed and edited the entire short film in just over one month.

“A friend sent me a link to the competition 34 days before the film was due,” she says.

“Having a creative constraint actually works in my favour – I work better under time pressure” The CineSpace competition had 900 entries.

Lani’s Space and 15 other finalists were chosen to be screened at the Houston Cinema Art Festival in November last year.

Maire and Bradley were thrilled when

they found out that their category was being judged by award-winning director Richard Linklater, who has made acclaimed movies such as Boyhood and Before Sunrise.

“The fact that he has seen a film that we created just blows my mind,” says Maire.

“I haven’t met him, we haven’t talked, but he’s seen our work. That is so special to me.”

The CineSpace competition offers film-makers from around the world the opportunity to showcase their works, inspired by and using actual NASA footage.

Maire and Bradley won the award for a film “best depicting benefits to humanity from the International Space Station” along with US$4000 prize money.

Maire’s directing career is on the rise.

“My dream in the hopefully not-too-distant future is to buy the rights to turn one of my favourite New Zealand novels into my first feature film,” she says.

Emelia Lake

Ferry crash saga heads back to court The ongoing saga of the Fullers ferry crash in February 2015 continues with a disputedfacts hearing on 2 May. A female passenger suffered a serious blow to the head and more than 20 other passengers sustained minor injuries when the Kea crashed into Victoria Wharf.

Fullers pleaded guilty to causing the crash and a judge ordered the company to pay reparation to the injured.

But since then it has disputed some of the facts of the case. It is understood the facts at issue are those that demonstrate the culpability of the company.

Fullers is suggesting the accident was due to the actions of the boat master and the company could not have prevented the accident from happening. Maritime New Zealand has a different opinion.

The hearing is expected to take two days.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 41

February 24, 2017

+

+ C T O MMU POR N O NIT V E D Y

n u f y l i Fam + trail

'Bring a gold coin donation for our r Light it Orange fo ' Shine fundraiser

SUNDAY 5 MARCH 2017

+

What’s In A Name?

10am-1pm

+

Explore an historic trail and discover the treasures in our community! Register at Windsor Reserve between 10-11am. The trail ends at Devonport Museum with games, a sausage sizzle and prize giving! t r Finish The event concludes at 1pm.

Sta ere

+

H

For more or ct (09) 445 9533 ta n co n io at rm fo in @xtra.co.nz email: dportcomm

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 42

Professional Services

February 24, 2017

RECOVER YOUR

LOUNGE SUITE

ng Celebratsi 5 year e serving itthy commun

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

Vision examinations Glaucoma checks Contact lenses and solutions Spectacle repairs Driver’s licence certificates

The Arcade 6 Wynyard St, Devonport

Dr. Adrian Stocco The Arcade, Devonport 445 8030 www.villagechiropractic.co.nz

Red Dragon Computers www.red-dragon.net.nz

Providing IT support to Devonport’s home users and small businesses since 2001 • Fast, reliable & cost effective • Windows computers & iPad Setup • Wi-Fi networking and ADSL broadband • New computers custom built • Repairs, Upgrades, Servicing • Virus & Spyware removal

Get it right first time with a Microsoft Certified Professional

Phone 215 9178

Christopher Jones Ph 445 7810

Ovlov Marine Ltd

Devonport’s Locksmith

• Full boating services • Repairs and maintenance • Expert advice • Free peninsula pickup • Mobile service available

Caledonian Premier Tiling • Tile Installation • Existing Rapair-work • Certified Waterproofing • Guarantees SPeCialiSing in • Ceramic Tiling • Laundries • Stonework • Decks • Bathrooms • Waterproofing • Kitchens • Silicone Application

Call Doug 09 446 0687 Mobile 021 187 7852

LAWNS & HEDGES Let me mow your lawns and trim your hedges, I live locally.

Phone Chris from lifestyle Plus on 09-488-7279 or 027-245-6264 or email chris@lifestyleplusltd.nz REFERENCES AVAILABLE

SPECIALIST IN PROVIDING

ON YAMAHA 2.5-8.0HP 4-STROKE OUTBOARDS T&Cs apply, see www.yamahamotor.co.nz/ outboardcashback for details

142 Beaumont Street, Westhaven Parking out front in loading zone

Ph (09) 377 4285 www.ovlov.co.nz

COME & SEE OUR LARGE NEW RETAIL SHOP DOWNSTAIRS Back to school laptops and tablets Local business - Personal service 24 hr support and fix available www.cgc.co.nz 10 Victoria road, Devonport 021 622 815 | karl@cgc.co.nz

NO FIX - NO FEE - OUR GUARANTEE

• New keys for existing locks • Lock repairs • Installation • Lock Hardware Contact Scott on

021 976 607 445 3064

72 Lake Road, Devonport

Call Sean Reeves for a free quote • Housewashing • Roof treatments • Waterblasting • Window cleaning bubbleboyshousewashing@gmail.com

Fitness & Personal Trainer Personalised programmes 1:1 or small group Nutrition Advice 30 or 45 minute sessions Devonport Health & Gym

Janet 021 101 96 95

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 43

February 24, 2017

Out and About with your local North Shore MP Member of Parliament – North Shore and Seniors Minister for Conservation, Conservation, Arts, Arts Culture and Heritage, Heritage and

Music, art, and conservation make the world go round

NORTH SHORE ELECTORATE OFFICE 15 Anzac Street, Takapuna | PHONE 09 486-0005 Facebook.com/maggiebarrynz

|

|

northshore@parliament.govt.nz

@maggiebarrynz

Funded by Parliamentary Service and authorised by M Barry MP, 15 Anzac St, Takapuna

Gold-standard connectivity

funding and self-resetting traps so while NZ On Air contributes about $4 Devonport has always been renowned that we can achieve the dream of a million a year towards a range of music for its close-knit and active community less of ACC levies,predator-free which is going backPeninsula. into the See A good number offore people work Devonport products. and this comes to the as wein Devonport www.doc.govt.nz for the Action Plan. enter season to we’re be jollyfortunate with an pockets of all of us.

We’re working hard to help from the home and to be one of the It’s been a busy few months with my impressive lineup of festive events the most vulnerable in our society and there are areas already connected to the Government’s Having presented papers at the Ministerial responsibilities and I’m – the Lions’ Santa Parade, Dance in 50,000 fewer children living in benefit-dependent $2 billion Ultra-Fast Broadband programme, Edinburgh Cultural Festival, Our looking forward to spending more the Park, and the Christmas window 2011. Our initiative to be the which we’re now extending to moretime than 151‘hood’ overhouseholds Conference in Washington, in the the summer. since Oceans display competition. We are looking first Government in 40 years to raise benefits additional regional towns, meaning up to 85 per Antarctica for Sir Ed’s heritage huthas I’ve just returned from an international forward to going to Takapuna Beach restoration, andon biodiversity in convention on biodiversity in Mexico relieved some of the pressures these vulnerable cent of Kiwis access to world-class fibre on Christmas daywill for have the annual Mexico over the past four months, where I released a new action plan performance Bruce Rolling Mason’s out play this faster, more children. by the end from of 2024.

I’m planning a relaxing staycation this out 20 specific targets for The End of the Golden This reliable internet is aWeather. vital part of oursetting Government’s Wenative probably all know someone who suffers summer.

I intend to spend as much protection of our unique community spirit was also evident at plan to develop a productive economy, improve from diabetes, with around six per cent offamily Newand time as I can with extended flora and fauna.

New Zealand’s the Devonport Library Associates event health and education outcomes andBiodiversity create more Zealanders and their families affected by this longcatching up with friends at home in Action Plan 2016-2020 hosting author C K Stead. I understand jobs.

I’m not sure if many of you will realise how Stanley Point, getting the garden into details how we intend to turn the term condition, which is a major health challenge more than 100 people turned out to shape, polishing up the paddleboard of species and habitat loss country. and incredibly advanced this makes Newtide Zealand.

This hear this witty, erudite Aucklander. for our Our Government understands skills, and fingers are crossed for BBQ counter the predator threats to our sort of connectivity is the gold standard, worldthe toll it takes on people’s lives and my colleague dinners courtesy of the son and heir. vulnerable native species. Our targets It’s great to see that Depot Artspace wide, and will make us the fourth-best-connected Health Minister Jonathan Coleman has announced I laid the groundwork with last year’s and strategy includes Predator Free will be hosting the internationally country in the world behind Japan, Singapore, $5.7m for research into diabetes management.

Christmas present when I unashamedly 2050 committing us to ridding New celebrated travelling exhibition and Korea. see workincluded on three projects study into a voucher for–aaBBQ-cooking Zealand of rats, stoats,This and will possums.

Rembrandt Remastered from salad making course for both biodiversity is a massive December 18th to February preventing type 2and diabetes by including probiotics As the Minister of Arts, 19th.

Culture and Halting Heritage, it’s decline Joe and Grant so I have high on the in the This is 50encouraging digital reproductions andand prebiotics diet;partner a digital health initiaalways to seeofhow wellchallenge the artsinternationally are hopes of me being the kitchenhand home front we need to join forces with paintings by the Dutch master based tive aimed at helping people prevent and manage supported in my own home base of Devonport. this summer. We’re also planning on others because it’s the only way we on photographs, each life-sized diabetes using online tools; as well as funding to The Devonport Library Associates (DLA), very ably putting our new electric bikes through can achieve our ambitious goals. With reproduction “remastered” to reflect support a targeted programme aimedup atand improvled by its Chair Jan Mason, is about to have the their paces and zipping down collaboration between DOC, other what the painting looked like when outcomes ori living with diabetes. official launch of important Writers’ much less congested Lake Road to Government and localing body agencies, for aMa it was completed 400its years ago. As Devonport sample all that’s on offer at the best iwi,the communities, private landowners, Minister for Arts, Culture and in Heritage, Collection, which began 2015 with idea Congratulations to the group of local volunteers, beaches in the country. philanthropists, and business we can Ithat see the local support for these local writers’ work should have a prominent including Takarunga/Mt Victoria’s unofficial guardachieve the goal. life-enriching events as evidence of a place in our library. Unlike other books belonging ian Roger Giles, who are nowoffice in charge the My Takapuna will be of closed thriving arts and culture sector. to Auckland Libraries, which circulate all council over the statutory break but we’llan I’vetorecently announced a stellar mountain’s rat-control programme following libraries, these aremany always returned be back early in 2017 refreshedIt’s and boardto to Devonlead the newofficial crown-owned The Peninsula has titles nurtured handover by the Maunga Authority. ready to greet the year with gusto, organisation that’ll make decisions musicians including Lorde, along port and the DLA has since dedicated funds to heartening to see so many people fighting the so please don’t hesitate to contact me about the landscape pest controls with budding garage bands, honing expanding the collection in perpetuity. good fight against predators and helping us reach if I can help. I hope you, your family, needed to secure a long-term, toxintheir skills. I was pleased to welcome ambitious Predator Freehave NewanZealand by Government has started atfuture. a gallop and friends enjoyablegoal festive free As the MPour for North aOur music industry economic report the year 2050. with ourthesafer communities ourI’m econseason and a relaxing and safe summer Shore very encouraged to see the showing sector’s $245 million package; holiday. enthusiasm contribution to the with economy.

Music omy is growing annual economic growthof our local groups to be predator free.

In the New Year, Doc’s makes a rich contribution culturally, expected to average around three per cent over Warm Regards, threatened species ambassador, Nicola economically, and socially, and our Warm Regards, the next five years; we’ve got jobs growing and Toki, will be helping pull together Government contributes $1.85 million unemployment falling and there’s $2 billion Barry ONZMBarry ONZM Hon Maggie a coordinated strategyHon for us Maggie with to the New Zealand Music Commission

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 44

February 24, 2017

Final days for wharf tenants

Farewell to the wharf...The Flea’s John Grant (left) and Trevor (Willy) Williams, who runs the Tagbuster Request Show. Williams, Murray “Muzza” Inglis and 18 other volunteers will move with the station

End of an era... Anne Magan from Books@devonport wharf (above), Pauline Baker of Magic Broomstick Segway Tours (below) and Megan Blank of Cycle Auckland (below right) are among those on the move

February 27 is D-Day for most remaining businesses on Devonport Wharf.

Years of month-to-month leasing have finally come to an end for the owners of around 10 shops that have been holding on until the bitter end.

Megan Blank from Cycle Auckland started her small business on the wharf six years ago “because this is the best place to cycle,” she says. Blank had to morph her business from a bike-hire service to a cycling accessory shop for locals when the competition in the city became too strong.

“I am going fully online for the winter and very much hope to be back next summer,” she says. In the meantime, she also wants to “take time out and cycle a lot, after six years of not having a weekend.”

The Flea FM community radio station owner John Grant says moving the station from the public spot it has enjoyed for the last decade is a sad “end of an era”.

“It was a big thing to get set up. This used to be a pizza shop and it had fat on the walls, just so thick. We had to scrape it off before we got going,” he recalls.

Grant plans to stay nearby, relocating temporarily into the old Post Office building. He eventually hopes to move into the old Borough Council chambers at 3 Victoria Rd. “We are working closely with the Devonport Business Association on our future plans,” he says.

On a positive note, Grant says The Flea will soon be the first radio station to join Radio New Zealand in a digital radio trial. “That will get us much wider exposure.”

Pauline Baker, who started Magic Broomstick Segway Tours eight years ago, after her husband Mike died, is not moving far – she has signed up to share the Fullers ticket office space on the wharf.

“It is not a perfect spot but with a big sign it could work,” she says. “Auckland Transport were happy to accommodate me because my market is international tourists and my advertisement is in all the brochures already, so they wanted to keep that flowing.”

Baker says being next to Victoria Wharf, where she teaches Segway novices the ropes, is a big plus for her.

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 45

February 24, 2017

Masonic apartments get finishing touches

The Masonic Tavern as the public knew it is virtually gone. Renovations of one of the oldest surviving wooden pubs in New Zealand are nearing completion.

The courtyard of the new Masonic apartments (top right) has been built new, while much of the Church St side is being replaced.

Meanwhile, last week, a reader dropped off a photo (bottom right) of the tavern – possibly taken in the 1950s.

Can anyone help us date it?

BELMONT PRIMARY SCHOOL FAIR AND BATTLE OF THE SCHOOLS

SATURDAY MARCH 4TH 2017 11AM TO 5PM @BPSFAIR

SPONSORED BY RYAN STEVEN, BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE

LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 46

WHAT’S

February 24, 2017

New pétanque court opens

ON

PRESCHOOL DANCE CLASSES FREE IN FEBRAURY TUES 9.15AM MINI MOVERS WED 2PM BALLET Contact Chloe for more information 021 292 0252.

AWAKEN VITALITY QIGONG MON 8.45AM/THURS 7PM Qigong is a moving meditation that generates mind/body/heart awareness and healing. Contact Shaarina Taylor: shaarina22@gmail.com

KARATE MONDAY/WEDNESDAY 6PM Japan Karate Association Devonport For self-defence and personal development. Beginners classes now.

Ph/txt David 021 100 9394

ZUMBA GOLD TUESDAY/THURSDAY 12.30PM $5 per class, first class free

Pétanque potential… local board member Mike Cohen shows promise as he takes on Garth Cumberland Pétanque got a boost in Devonport this month, with a new terrain opening at the North Shore Croquet Club on Wairoa Rd. Devonport-Takapuna Local Board member Mike Cohen threw the first hollow steel ball in a game with the club’s president Garth Cumberland, which Cohen won.

A local grant of $3500 paid for most of the $4000 construction cost. The club paid the remainder, says Cumberland.

The court is open for anyone to play during club opening times or when a club member is present.

Pétanque can also be played at the Stanley Bay Bowling and Pétanque Club or on the shell paths along the waterfront, where longtime Devonport resident and founder of the New Zealand Pétanque Association, Cam Calder, holds an annual Christmas pétanque competition.

Contact Bev 027 483 2900

TAI CHI MON/WED 11.30AM $2 per class, ring North Shore Women’s Centre to register 444 4618.

YOGA CLASSES Mon 10am with Maria 623 3020 Mon 7.35pm with Ines 021 110 0606 Thurs 10am with David 445 3757

PILATES CLASSES Wed 7.35pm with Abraham Sat 7.30am with Abraham Phone 021 122 1530

LEISURE PAINTERS TUES 10-2PM Join a friendly group of artists who share their skills. $5 per session. Phone Linda for more information 446 6141.

32 CLARENCE ST, DEVONPORT Ph: 445 3068 | Fax: 445 6888 e: devonportcomhouse@xtra.co.nz

ON FACEBOOK DevonportCommunityHouse

DEVONPORT SCHOOL OF DANCE NEW STUDIOS NOW OPEN 15 WYNYARD ST Contact ContactMiss MissEmily Emilyto toarrange arrangeaaFREE FREETRIAL TRIAL emily@devonportschoolofdance.com emily@devonportschoolofdance.com 027 027637 6371882 1882 www.devonportschoolofdance.com www.devonportschoolofdance.com

The Devonport Flagstaff Page 47

February 24, 2017

It’s Girl Guide biscuit time Devonport-Takapuna District Pippins, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers are ready to hit the streets with their ever-popular biscuits.

March is Girl Guide biscuit month, when girls will be selling door-to-door around peninsula neighbourhoods.

Biscuit fans have also been asked to look out for the girls’ biscuit stalls in Devonport, Hauraki corner and Milford on the weekend of 4 and 5 March.

It is the Guide organisation’s biggest fundraiser of the year. They are selling original plain, chocolate, and boxes of mini chocolate biscuits, all at $3.50 per packet.

Organisers have asked customers planning to buy at home to remember to have some cash on hand.

Anyone wanting to pre-order can email Sue Claridge (sueandbryan@clear.net.nz) or Louise Todd (louisetodd@xtra.co.nz).

Collection will be by arrangement from the Guide hall, Allenby Ave, Devonport.

Orders of 10 packets or more will be delivered free.

Treat yourself... Devonport Guides gearing up for biscuit month include (from left) Charlotte Buchanan, Hettie Read and Katie Buchanan

PREMIUM.CO.NZ | SELLING THE FINEST HOMES | DEVONPORT 445 3414

DEVONPORT | 46 N G ATAR I N G A R O AD Call To All First Homers - Downsizers - Investors

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

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PETER VOLLEBREGT 0274 515 188 PeterVollebregt@premium.co.nz DEVONPORT: 445 3414

VIEW | SAT/SUN 1 - 1.45 PM OR BY APPOINTMENT EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | 14 MARCH 2017 AT 4 PM PREMIUM.CO.NZ/60517

UNLESS SOLD PRIOR

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The Devonport Flagstaff Page 48

February 24, 2017

PREMIUM.CO.NZ | FINE HOMES

S TAN LE Y B AY | 12 WI L L I AM B O ND STREET 6 6 5 m 2 o f P u re Pot en t ial Steeped in family history and fond memories that span 80 years for its current owners, this sweet 1920’s bungalow is seriously for sale. Clever buyers will note the sizeable land and the huge potential this presents. The new roof, deck and external repaint have given this wee cutie a new lease on life. Insulated to keep you cosy, and good bones and structure to build on to, the scope to remove or develop and make into something special is substantial. The Stanley Bay CBD Ferry is a short stroll away (10-minutes and you’re in Auckland City), as is Stanley Bay School, pre-schools, Ngataringa Bay. Anyone with an eye for good land in a great location must view this. Vendors are motivated and invite all interest.

KATHRYN ROBERTSON 021 490 480 KathrynRobertson@premium.co.nz DEVONPORT: 445 3414 PREMIUM REAL ESTATE LTD LICENSED REAA 2008

COREY KNAPP 021 241 0081 CoreyKnapp@premium.co.nz TAKAPUNA: 916 4216 PREMIUM REAL ESTATE LTD LICENSED REAA 2008

VIEW | SUN 1 - 1.30 PM OR BY APPOINTMENT EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | TUESDAY 14 MARCH 2017 AT 4 PM UNLESS SOLD PRIOR PREMIUM.CO.NZ/60521

EVERY DEVONPORT PROPERT Y M.CO.NZ S E L L I N G ERT T H E F I NY EST HOMES I SP R EAM I UPREMIUM P ROP