community news, issues, arts, people, events community news, issues, arts, people, events
Delivered free to letter boxes, post boxes, libraries and selected outlets throughout Tītīrangi, Glen Eden, Green Bay, New Lynn, Konini, Wood Bay, French Bay, Waima, Woodlands Park, Laingholm, Parau, Cornwallis, Huia, Oratia, and beyond. Published by Fringe Media Ltd, PO Box 60-469, Tītīrangi, Auckland 0642
Editor: Bevis England 817 8024, 027 494 0700 bevis@fringemedia.co.nz
Advertising: info@fringemedia.co.nz
Writers and contributors: Moira Kennedy, David Thiele, Naomi McCleary, Fiona Drummond, Jade Reidy, John Goudge, Karen McCarthy, Kerry Lee
A better living environment?
A recent press release from Auckland Council described a residential community that exemplified what it called “smart growth”.
Over the last decade, the suburb of Northcote has been undergoing significant renewal, boosting housing capacity and delivering more choices including apartments and town-houses near public transport hubs and town centres. The network of rebuilt streets with landscaped terrace housing and apartment buildings also includes a partly ‘daylighted’ Awataha Stream and tuna (eel) and kākā have returned –indicators of the stream’s improving health.
Every issue of The Fringe (and the Tītīrangi Tatler before it) since April 2011 is on-line at www.fringemedia.co.nz. Like us on Facebook (www. facebook.com/FringeWest) to hear when each issue is available and get other updates.
“Locals stroll along walkways lined with foliage, children play on new playgrounds, mana whenua expression is woven throughout, a market garden has been re-born and local schools are thriving,” says the release.
“As housing choices expand, communities are more connected, transport links are more seamless, people are healthier as warm, dry housing becomes the norm, and walking is increasingly the way families get around.
“Growth needed to be master-planned and supported by Council investment in infrastructure, including flood mitigation, new parks and community facilities. We want to lock in these benefits for many more Auckland suburbs across the region, so more people can experience the same.
“The ongoing transformation of Northcote highlights how well-designed, well-planned, higher-density housing can build a strong sense of belonging in the community, especially when it is located close to jobs, transport, schools, shops, improved parks, playgrounds and public spaces – many of the things they value most,” says the release.
All of which raises an important question: Where is Council’s master plan for OUR communities?
New high density developments seem to be springing up all over the West, from individual sections with three or more town houses on them, to apartment buildings and larger developments with hundreds of residents. But there doesn’t seem to be any master planning involved and there is little if any investment in flood mitigation, new parks or community facilities.
Our local infrastructure, town centres and environment desperately need the same levels of planning and investment as we’ve seen in other areas of this so-called Supercity.
Perhaps we should be asking those who wish to represent us on Council how they intend to help create a better living environment for West Auckland’s residents.
– Bevis England
Let us know what you think: email info@fringemedia.co.nz
Electorate boundary review
The Representation Commission, an independent body made up of public officials and Government and Opposition appointees is now setting the electorate boundaries for the 2026 General Election and there will be some significant changes in West Auckland.
The New Lynn, Kelston and Te Atatū electorates have all been adjusted into new electorates with the proposed names of Waitākere, Glendene and Rānui.
The current electorate of New Lynn is to be reconfigured to address population shifts in neighbouring electorates. The changes have created a new electorate, to be named Waitākere. This electorate will be made up of 43,400 voters from the current New Lynn electorate including the Waitākere Ranges, Tītīrangi, Green Bay and southern New Lynn suburbs, and 23,500 from the Kelston electorate including Kōnini and Glen Eden.
18,900 voters from around Blockhouse Bay (in the current New Lynn electorate) will move to the present Mt Roskill electorate, and a further 5,500 from around McLaren Park will move to the new Glendene electorate which replaces the present Kelston electorate.
Glendene will be made up of the 5,500 voters mentioned above, 33,000 from Kelston, Rosebank, Glendene and Sunnyvale, and 30,100 from Te Atatū South.
All public comment will be considered before the boundaries and names are finalised in August. The new boundaries will apply for the 2026 General Election.
Visit https://vote.nz/boundary-review/about/2025/ to find out more and to have your say.
Despite the major reconstruction work affecting the building on the corner of Rangiwai and Tītīrangi Roads, Gecko in the Village (next to where the post office used to be) is still open and offering a great range of gifts and presents. The shop genuinely appreciates local support and certainly has something for every one and every budget. Pop in and have a look next time you’re in the Village.
As part of its celebration of 20 years in Tītīrangi, Barfoot & Thompson
in Tītīrangi
for a special function. Five community organisations, nominated by local residents, received a $1000 donation from the branch. The lucky organisations were Tītīrangi Volunteer Fire Brigade, Tītīrangi Volunteer Coast Guard, Birdcare Aotearoa, Bellyful West Auckland and Goodness Gardens in Laingholm.
Storm-affected land use policy approved
Auckland councillors have approved plans for the 1,200odd properties bought out following the 2023 storms.
The policy guiding future land use decisions has been approved by the council’s Policy and Planning Committee.
The initial objective behind the buy-out scheme was to move people out of harm’s way. However, there is also an intention to use the land effectively to maintain strong communities.
Under the policy, the council will retain a large number of properties for flood resilience projects, other council services or where hazards such as unstable land must be safely managed. The council will also consider opportunities to sell some properties that can be used safely for other purposes.
With hundreds of pieces of land to assess, it will take several years before final decisions are made, a factor which could be frustrating for affected communities.
The removal of storm-affected homes will continue until late 2027, and the council will maintain the vacant land until the future land use is determined.
To find out more or to make suggestions for specific Category 3 sites, visit https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ news/2025/02/future-land-use/.
staff (above) gathered
Theatre
Communication, economic development, rubbish?
Local government elections are coming this year, KERRY LEE finds out what residents really want from the people they will vote for.
The city has several problems right now, and West Auckland is no exception. Housing, inflation, crime, and socioeconomic issues all contribute to the city’s woes.
Shane Manuela of Green Bay Barbers says housing, resource consents, and communication could be improved.
“How developers talk to the neighbours about what’s going in there [what they build]. I know they don’t have to, but it would be nice if they could communicate better with their new neighbours if they’re going to put in a big social housing development.
on infrastructure or on our recreational services then I think it would be a good idea to consult the community to see what they want,” says David.
Meanwhile, Shiyu Hua of Jamie’s Café in New Lynn felt that improving the local economy and crime prevention were major issues she wanted the council to focus on. Shiyu said that if the economy prospers, crime will naturally decline.
Studies have shown a link between economic prosperity and crime reduction due to lower unemployment, leading to a higher standard of living, and making crime less appealing.
What do you think? What is important to you? What do you want to see our elected representatives supporting?
“I think a focus should also be on resource consents before they start building, if there’s a way for people to have a say on the type of buildings or how many dwellings could go on a section,” says Shane.
Let The Fringe know by emailing info@fringemedia.co.nz
Like Shane, David Bannister of the Green Bay Book Shop believes community consultation and communication between a council and the people it represents is very important. One example of this is the Western Springs Speedway. Despite being a local icon for 96 years, there was no apparent consultation before it closed on March 22, 2025.
“As far as I’m aware, there was no consultation, and it was a done deal before anyone had any kind of say. The speedway has been there for a very, very long time and there’s been no consultation with anyone in West Auckland about this.
“It affects us locally, if it’s something that is popular and at the very least if the council is going to make major decisions
Long-time Blockhouse Bay resident Christian Bregman-Lyon, who recently left the area, says that local infrastructure needs more work done on it and that we need elected officials that care more.
“We need people who are in the mix. I feel a lot of the people that are making decisions aren’t living out there; we need people who know what it’s like to get to the bus stop or try to catch a train to there or here,” says Christian.
Local resident Geoff Ogg feels that Council should “cut the fat” rather than raising rates for the increasing cost of local amenities and that we should move to a user-pays system.
“I’m a believer in user pays, I don’t want to pay for stuff I don’t use. I don’t use the library, or public transport. I don’t use the parks and all that, so people should just pay if they want to use them.
“I’m also a fan of bringing back the inorganic collections on a more regular basis, and also free entry into the inorganic stations for refuge tipping such as the one in Henderson.”
Authorised by Paulo Garcia, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
Huia trappers give native frogs a fighting chance
Named after Aotearoa’s oncetreasured but extinct native bird, Huia is now one of few places the Hochstetter’s frog survives, and the community is working to keep it that way.
Hochstetter’s frog (pepeketua) is one of the country’s most ancient native species and one of the most threatened, classified as At Risk – Declining by the Department of Conservation (DOC). It is found only in isolated pockets across the upper North Island. In Huia, the species is still holding on – but only just.
The small, semi-aquatic frog lives in cool, shaded stream habitats and is vulnerable to rats, hedgehogs and stoats. A 2020 survey confirmed just 17 frogs across seven streams in the Huia catchment – slightly up from previous years, but still far below historic numbers.
The Huia Trapping Group is working to change that. Since forming in 2018, the group has removed more than 4,500 predators from the forest, including 2,600 rats, 600 possums and 60 mustelids. Its work is helping to protect not
only frogs but native birds, bats and insects that rely on the same fragile ecosystem.
“Huia has steep valleys, healthy streams, heavy canopy cover and relatively dark night skies, making it an ideal habitat for species like the Hochstetter’s frog,” says founding member, Dave Minty.
“With careful predator control and ongoing habitat protection, we’ve got a real chance to help them recover.”
Huia Trapping Group co-leader, Glen McConville, says: “The name of this place reminds us of what we’ve already lost. We can’t bring the huia back, but we can stop other species from disappearing.”
How you can help: don’t touch frogs, scrub and disinfect footwear, avoid spraying near waterways, plant native trees, fence off streams, trap predators, and report sightings on DOC’s Herpetofauna Database.
Contact Dave Minty on 021 159 2312 or daveminty87@ gmail.com, or Michelle Swanepoel (Pest Free Waitākere Ranges Alliance) on 0274 994 596 or michelle@pfwra.org.nz.
Pepeketua is Pest Free Waitākere Ranges Alliance’s Special Species for May. Photo by Saryu Mae.
Client to volunteer to manager – “life changing”
From being an archaeologist on exotic sites around the world to her current position as manager at Glen Eden’s Citizens Advice Bureau doesn’t seem such a radical change for Leomie Wade.
“A lot of what I did as an archaeologist was fact finding and researching, and that’s what I do now too,” she says.
Leomie worked in sites in Mesopotamia, the Middle East, Bermuda and America and, with talents in archaeological illustrating, was able to travel around the world with her skills.
Later, living in Tītīrangi, and finding herself with a difficult and misdiagnosed medical condition eight years ago, she was desperate for help with her health issues. She went to the Glen Eden Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) seeking guidance.
After receiving help on how to deal with her health challenges from the then CAB manager, it was suggested Leomie could be a volunteer at Glen Eden.
“My health was improving so I became a volunteer for five years, supported and surrounded by a wonderful group of people who want to help others and are committed to offering guidance or find answers for them. It was life changing for me,” she says.
Leomie became manager two years ago, leading one of more than 80 CABs nationwide. There are 10 branches in Auckland – four of those locally: Glen Eden, New Lynn, Avondale and Massey. Every year they deal with more than 225,000 clients across the area. Just under 68,000 are helped by the Glen Eden team.
Citizens Advice Bureaux provide free, confidential information and advice to anyone about any query or
problem. They are staffed by trained volunteers who can access information by computer or from the extensive range of resources held within each bureau. The service can be accessed by phone, email or in person.
“There are no silly questions or questions that are too left field. Our volunteers always endeavour to find an answer or get you to the person who can find an answer. It’s about information gathering and organising information so it can be interpreted by their clients,” Leomie says. “Our volunteers offer the same kind of skills as archaeologists. We just deliver it in a different place and for different reasons.”
Clients come from all sections of the community: professors, homeless people, those struggling financially or who have tenancy or other consumer problems.
“They may be experiencing court, relationship or separation issues. One the main issues we see is financial problems in relationships. That’s always at the top of stress levels in a relationship. Perhaps our clients need employment support or advice on immigration, family or neighbourhood issues, dispute resolution or making wills,” Leomie says.
“Everyone is welcome. There is zero judgment – just an acceptance of the people seeking advice. We offer guidance to our specialist JP clinics, budgeting, translation services and legal advice. But we’re not lawyers.”
Leomie says it’s important for those going to a CAB to know they will be supported by people who are properly trained.
“Our volunteers undertake six weeks training and need to be competent on computers. A sense of humour is invaluable as this is a happy environment where our team want to do
The Down Jacket Collection by Moke
Glen Eden CAB manager, Leomie Wade: “The greatest gift of giving is the joy of helping someone.”
their best. We want to see everyone thrive – our clients and our volunteers.
“And the work keeps your brain occupied, busy. Our volunteers often look into fields involving the most thorny issues for clients and look into a variety of possible solutions.
“At CAB you’re seeing a wide variety of things but importantly you’re never on your own. There’s always a manager or other volunteers for support and we share information and knowledge as well as direction to other organisations that can help with specifics.”
Volunteers range in age from the mid-20s to over 80.
“Every day when I leave the office I know I’ve helped somebody, knowing it was important to that person at that time. Yes, I’m very passionate about my job. And it’s been life changing.”
“The greatest gift of giving is the joy of helping someone; watching people seemingly two inches taller when they leave. They’re relieved. They’ve been listened to. They’ve received independent advice and information that could make their lives better.”
Citizens Advice Bureau: 0800 367 222, 0800 FOR CAB, www. cab.org.nz, or gleneden@cab.org.nz – Moira Kennedy
The Trusts (Portage and Waitākere Licensing Trusts) have concluded their latest funding round from The Your West Support Fund and the Your West Innovation Fund, injecting $1,100,018.30 into a diverse range of community projects across the West.
Trusts CEO Allan Pollard says, “We are privileged to be in a position where we can directly distribute surplus profits to the West Auckland community. This investment represents our commitment to tangible, community-driven progress and the empowerment of local initiatives.”
There were 199 applications for funding through the Your West Support Fund and $750,000 was awarded to the 47 successful applications, supporting initiatives supporting community well-being, education, social services, culture and arts, the environment, sport and recreation, Pacifica, health, and service and social clubs.
The Your West Innovation Fund received 38 applications and $350,000 was awarded to 8 successful applicants in social services, education, the environment, community well-being, and culture and the arts.
The Trusts are dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the West Auckland community. By supporting both essential services and innovative projects, the funds aim to create a thriving and resilient community for all.
A positive vision for the future of Auckland
Kia ora.
I’m Kerrin Leoni, the elected Auckland Council member for Whau Ward, and now stepping up to stand as the next Mayor of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
I'm standing for the Mayoralty because I’ve been called by my community. My iwi, Ngāti Paoa, and Aucklanders from every walk of life have told me they want change.
They want a positive vision and real action, not fear and constant cuts to our services; and they see a younger woman with the expertise and values to bring fresh ideas to Auckland Council and our Super City.
Vision and values
So what are my values? I value building a better Auckland and a truly liveable city for Aucklanders, whether we are in city apartments or the rural reaches. I value the genuinely responsible use of ratepayers’ money – not turning a blind eye to shady deals, or funnelling our hardearned public assets into private hands. I believe in building quality infrastructure for the long term, and prioritising safety and sustainability in our environment.
For the past five years, I’ve been on both the Whau Local Board and the main Auckland Council, so I have all the essential knowledge and skills to lead from Day 1. I have a Master’s degree in economics from King’s College
London, ran my own business in the UK and also launched a property investment business here in New Zealand.
In policy, I’m dedicated to providing affordable housing, building smarter infrastructure and supporting stronger communities with the services we need to thrive. I will promote open governance and encourage far more active public input in key city decisions.
Setting the stage for change
I’m focused on getting out across the city and giving Aucklanders a real alternative to the incumbent – the first woman as Mayor of the Super City, and the first Māori woman as Mayor for Auckland overall. It’s important that we have a strong and credible progressive choice; looking around the world, we see that voting for the big money interests leads down a dangerous path.
Perhaps most importantly, I am a lifelong Aucklander who wants to see a refreshed style of leadership for this beautiful place we call home. Leadership that will encourage entrepreneurs and skilled young people to stay in Auckland and raise their families here. Leadership that unites Aucklanders and makes them feel proud and connected to their communities.
I’m happy to meet with anyone and everyone, to talk about our city's future and what we want to achieve. For more info or to make contact, please visit www.kerrinleoniformayor.com.
Nga mihi nui, Kerrin Leoni
Places to go – Things to do
Out and About in the West
Event organisers: Do you have an upcoming event you’d like listed in The Fringe? Send the details, including a contact person and number, to info@fringemedia.co.nz.
Readers: While we take care to ensure listings are correct, errors may occur. Check with the contact person if possible, especially over the festive and holiday season
Exhibitions
w – May 11, Mango or Lemon, a solo show by Ahsin Ahsin featuring works influenced by 1980s-90s sci-fi films, street art, and comic books; Upstairs Gallery, first floor, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
w – May 25, Photosynthesisers: Women and the lens, an exhibition of photographs and videos by 41 women artists and collectives from Aotearoa and Australia; Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
w – May 25, Oil and Water, paintings by Jelena Telecki; Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
w – June 7, Hand: Weaving and Fibre Craft Today presented by the Handweavers & Spinners Guild; Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson; Phone 838 4455, www.ceac.org.nz.
w – June 22, Kokonga Ngākau, fabric works and quilts by Maungarongo Te Kawa (Ngāti Porou); Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
w – July 27, Life in forms, works by Pauline Yearbuiry (Ngaphui); Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
May
w 2 – 4, Printopia, a three-day festival featuring over 40 printmaking artists from New Zealand and the Asia Pacific; Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson; Free.
w 2, Flicks presents The teacher who promised the sea (M, Spain, 105 minutes), Biog/drama based on a true story; Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road; 10.30am, 6pm and 8.15pm; $16 and $12. Text Bookings to 0210 222 5558.
w 3, West Lynn Garden Club. Learn new skills, meet new people, monthly speakers, day-trips; West Lynn Gardens, 73 Parker Ave, New Lynn; 9:3011:30am. Contact lynne.hunter@xtra.co.nz, 0210 245 5120.
w 4, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride. Phone 027 499 1732.
w 7 (and every Wednesday), Huia Indoor Bowls & Social Club, established in 1967; Huia Hall, 1253 Huia Road, Huia; from 7.15pm. Contact Annette 021 111 8643.
w 9, West Auckland Men’s Rebus Club, guest speaker and morning tea; Friendship Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn; 10am-12 noon. Phone Vince 021 189 6822.
w 9, Ladies’ Probus Club, fellowship, fun, speakers, and a monthly day trip; St John’s Hall, 247 Edmonton Road, Te Atatū South; 9:45am-12 noon. Phone Betty 09 832 0484.
w 9, LIVE@LOPDELL, music from the newly formed Dos Enemigos featuring Finn Scholes and Alistair Deverick (Carnivorous Plant Society), a unique music/film/story-telling event; Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House,
418 Tītīrangi Road; 7.30pm; Tickets, $25/$20, from eventfinda.co.nz and on door if not sold out. Bookings TEXT 0210 222 5558.
w 10, Tītīrangi Poets with a guest poet and readings by members; Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 2-4pm. Phone Ron Riddell 021 181 6698.
w 10, Tītīrangi Folk Music Club presents Wilkie Mac floorsingers in first half; Tītīrangi Beach Hall, bottom of Tītīrangi Beach Road; 8pm; $15, members $10, under 18 free. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.
w 11, Jan Elliott sings Joni Mitchell; Tītīrangi Theatre, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi road; 6.30 – 8.00pm; $25, book at Under the Radar. Phone 022 039 9886.
w 14, Flicks presents Classic Movie Night: Sunset Boulevard (PG, 110 minutes), introduced by Sir Bob Harvey. A dark comedy about Hollywood directed by Billy Wilder; Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House, 418 Titirangi Road; 7.30pm; $16 and $12. Text bookings to 0210 222 5558.
w 15, Waitākere Forest and Bird presents Moa in the NZ large herbivore niche space a talk by Shane Wright, senior lecturer, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland; Ranui Community Centre 474 Swanson Rd, Ranui; 7:30pm; koha appreciated to cover hall hire. For further information phone Liz 0274 762732 or email lizanstey@hotmail.com.
w 16 – June 1, , a solo show by Paola King-Borrero exploring the bed as both an intimate object and a creative catalyst; Upstairs Gallery, first floor, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
w 16, Flicks presents Lies we tell (R16, Ireland, 89 minutes) A gripping drama/mystery/thriller newly released by Limelight, plus short film; Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House, 418 Titirangi Road; 10.30am, 6pm and 8.15pm; $16 and $12. Text Bookings to 0210 222 5558.
w 17, New Lynn Lions Club $1 Book Sale: Books, Magazines, CDs, DVDs, LPs and jigsaw puzzles; New Lynn Friendship Club Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn (down the driveway by the traffic lights); 8am-4pm. Contact Mary Hibberd on 027 487 0639.
w 19, Henderson Falls Combined Friendship Club – fun, friendship and fellowship with monthly speakers and frequent outings; Henderson Bowling Clubrooms, 2/20 Alderman Drive, Henderson; 10am-12 noon. Contact Joy 837 4646 or 021 267 3544.
w 21, Combined Waitākere Rebus Club; St John’s Hall, 247 Edmonton Road, Te Atatū South; 10am-12 noon. Contact Philis on 838 5361.
w 27, Tītīrangi U3A – informal learning for people 50-years plus, guest speakers, study groups; West Lynn Garden, 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn; 1pm. Contact Irene Pearcey ipearceyu3a@gmail.com. www.u3a.nz.
w 23, Glen Eden Combined Probus Club: company and fellowship, interesting speakers, morning tea and monthly outings; Glen Eden Recreation and Community Centre, 44 Glendale Road, Glen Eden; 9:45am. Phone Brian Holt 838 5857.
w 23, Tītīrangi Folk Music Club presents Friday Folk, an informal gathering of musicians, singers and listeners; Tītīrangi Beach Hall, bottom of Tītīrangi Beach Road; 7:30pm; $5. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.
w 25, Tītīrangi Village Market: art, craft, produce and music; Tītīrangi
Places to go – Things to do
War Memorial Hall; 10am-2pm. Contact tvm.manager@gmail.com or phone 022 631 9436.
w 31, New Lynn Repair Cafe. Bring your broken items and work with skilled volunteers to fix them; New Lynn Community Centre, Tōtara Avenue, New Lynn; 11am-2pm; Koha. Phone Surbhi Gupta 022 507 0905.
June
w June 1, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride. Phone 027 499 1732.
w June 7, West Lynn Garden Club. Learn new skills, meet new people, monthly speakers, day-trips; West Lynn Gardens, 73 Parker Ave, New Lynn; 9:30-11:30am. Contact lynne.hunter@xtra.co.nz, 0210 245 5120.
w June 13, West Auckland Men’s Rebus Club, guest speaker and morning tea; Friendship Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn; 10am-12 noon. Phone Vince 021 189 6822.
New Zealand Music Month at Tītīrangi Library
w 10, 10am-4pm. Tītīrangi Folk Music Club brings a full programme of performances. Drop in and out or stay for the whole day. Bring your friends and enjoy a day of great music and good vibes. For full details and performance times, find Titirangi Community Library on Facebook w 12 and 19, 10-11am. Make music this May with fun and friendly ukulele lessons. Whether you're picking up a uke for the first time or just brushing off the cobwebs, learn chords, strumming and songs in a relaxed group setting. Ukuleles available. Book on Humanitix/Titirangi
w 17, 2-3pm – Ukulele Jam with Mark. Bring your uke, your mates, and your favourite tunes. Expect singalongs, strumming, and plenty of good vibes. All levels welcome – BYO ukulele or borrow one on the day.
w 21, 9.30-10.00am. Little Kiwis, Big Beats: music and dance for preschoolers. Sing, move, groove, and giggle through fun Kiwi tunes –perfect for little ones to explore rhythm, sound, and self-expression.
w 20, 3.30-4.30pm. Make Some Noise: create your own musical instruments. In this hands-on session, kids will use all sorts of materials to make shakers, drums, and more – then make music together! Suitable for children aged 5 or older.
Regular children’s events at Glen Eden Library
w Lego Club: Tuesdays, 3.30-4.45pm
w Wriggle and Rhyme: Wednesdays, 11.00-11.30am
w Rhymetime: Thursdays, 10.30-11.00am
w Crafternoon: Friday May 9 and May 23, 3.30-5.00pm
There is so much happening in and around our community, including many regular events, that we can’t fit everything into these listings. If you can’t see the event you’re interested in, visit: www.fringemedia.co.nz/ourplace
www.tonicspa.co.nz
Visit our salon during May to enter your name into the draw to win a Signature Spa Package with us. We have 25 products to give away from our premium partner Sothys, plus a range of deals on treatments throughout the month.
Perfect for yourself or a Mother’s Day gift
Entries to the draw and special deals valid from May 1 - 31
Legends of the West
The 2025 West Auckland Heritage Conference Legends of the West: The People Who Have Influenced Our Heritage will explore the lives and legacies of those who have shaped the rich history and culture of the west.
The conference, supported by Waitākere Ranges and Whau Local Boards, is on May 4, 2025 at Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall.
Waitākere Ranges Local Board deputy chair Michelle Clayton says the board is pleased to support this event. “Waitākere Ranges Local Board engages with many activities that protect and promote our local heritage, giving context to our identity and fostering pride in our local history. I encourage anyone with an interest in our heritage and identity to attend the conference.”
Whau Local Board chair Kay Thomas says that the board is proud to support the conference that recognises and celebrates the environmental, geological, cultural, artistic and social heritage of the local area. “Understanding the history of our area is vital to reinforce our sense of identity and pride as West Aucklanders.”
Take the opportunity to hear from inspiring local heritage legends, bringing history to life through the voices of those who carry its legacy. Bruce Hayward, distinguished New Zealand geologist, marine ecologist, and author has joined as the keynote speaker. He will discuss the geological changes along the west coast and its rich geological history.
See the full programme and purchase tickets at westheritageconference.nz. Tickets are also available at the door.
Art & About with Naomi McCLeary
Time Passing
The death of theatre legend Raymond Hawthorne, at the age of 88, has given me pause to look back at some of my memories of this extraordinary talent and the kaleidoscope of theatre arts his life encompassed.
The New Zealand Players 1955; that travelling troupe of gorgeous young actors, Raymond among them, that spread magic (and a small amount of adolescent hysteria) to school students country-wide. I can still see him, along with the luminously beautiful Bridget Armstrong, bringing Shakespeare to life.
Jump to 1974, when he founded Theatre Corporate, an impossibly small and narrow venue, tucked away in Galatos Street behind K Road. We flocked to the many plays he directed there; fan girls and aficionados of good, thoughtprovoking theatre. It felt like a home for some years and we grieved when it finally closed.
And then the 80s, when he directed a series of operas at the famed Mercury Theatre. These were small but exquisitely choreographed stagings with ‘limited palette’ sets and costumes. The voices were more than adequate but the visuals were memorable. Lucia di Lammermoor stays with me still with its black, purple and scarlet theatricality.
He continued to act, to direct, to teach; and has been an integral part of the theatre scene until very recently; often in the audience supporting shows at Q Theatre and Auckland Theatre Company; by repute sometimes quite critical, but always there.
I think his engagement with Te Pou Maori Theatre was remarkable; turning up to experimental work, rehearsed readings, shows big and small. From brief passing comments to me at shows, he totally understood the importance of what was developing at
Te Pou. He was clearly aging, often looking frail, rugged up immaculately on cold nights. And on it goes; so many with stories to tell. It feels like the end of an era, but of course, it’s not; it’s a treasured legacy.
The nature of theatre has changed. When
Tītīrangi Theatre moved into the basement of Lopdell House in the1970s there was a very clear distinction between amateur and professional theatre and little common meeting ground. This wasn’t a division around quality; indeed there is a proud history at Tītīrangi of great productions running the gamut from Shakespeare to Roger Hall; but jobbing actors kept to the big theatres. Notable directors of this decade (and on into the 80s and 90s) were Liz Watkinson, Lindsay and Christine Nash and others whose names elude me. The large collaged panels that line the current theatre walls are a vivid testament to the long history of outstanding productions; and stories could be told. This visible archive was created by Liz Watkinson and the late Barbara Butland. But during these years things began to change. The best of our acting fraternity began to get work in professional theatre, television and film. The barriers were down and ‘pro-am’ was the lingo. Whether it is related or not, I can only pass an opinion, but along with this blurring of the boundaries, the social side of amateur theatre began to slip away; the club nights, rehearsed readings, even trips for mystery (Agatha Christie) adventures. That volunteer group who had built the theatre, loved and nurtured it, often partied hard in it, was – well – aging and distracted by the changing social scene. At this point I must acknowledge the late Heather Mogridge, whose untiring energy and fund raising skills, transformed a cold, dark garage into an intimate flexible theatre space. She had leading roles in many productions, and like so many others, took the honing of her acting chops very seriously; and she knew how to party!
The multi-million dollar refurbishment of Lopdell House, started under Waitākere City Council and completed by the newly amalgamated Auckland Council, signalled a further change.
It is the way of the world that venues have to be multifunctional, and so Lopdell Theatre is now managed by the council with an integrated schedule of other events, but with the caveat that Tītīrangi Drama has dedicated bookings for four or five productions each year. It isn’t a perfect solution;
Corben Simpson performing in a Blerta reformation gig at Going West, 2007.
Photo Gil Hanley
Tītīrangi Theatre has witnessed many changes over the years. What acts will entertain those who sit in these seats in another 50 years?
Art & About with Naomi McCLeary
Call for Expressions of Interest
The Tītīrangi Festival Of Music is coming back in October 2025 and you can be part of it!
it’s not like ‘the old days’; but good live theatre continues to play out on these boards – and that is what really matters. It all comes back to story-telling; that primeval urge to make sense of our world with myth and magic.
Addendum:
I am spending many happy hours working with James Littlewood, identifying the many faces in the Gil Hanly photo archive of 25 years of the Going West Writers Festival (far left and above)
We’ve laughed a lot, cried a little, and shared some of the behind the scenes gossip. What has stunned me is that so many of those faces are no longer with us. They look so animated; so vividly alive. There’s a lesson in there somewhere?
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Are you a solo artist, band, cultural group, school ensemble, or community crew with something special to share? TFM wants to hear from you!
The festival is inviting expressions of interest from performers of all ages and styles to be part of this year's event; a celebration of music, art, culture, and West Auckland community spirit. Whether you're into rock, reggae, kapa haka, choirs, hip hop, classical, or anything in between, this is your chance to take the stage and shine!
Who can apply?
• Solo musicians & bands
• School music groups, choirs, and kapa haka groups
• Cultural & community groups
• Dance crews and performance groups
Where to apply:
• Send an email to dixon@bandsbydesign.com with a video link of a LIVE recent performance along with your band or artist blurb (bio) and a high resolution pic.
• Use header: TFM25 - Expression of Interest / ATTN: TFM Artistic Director, Dixon Nacey
Poet Amber Esau winning the Going West slam in 2014. Photo GIl Hanley. Her film Whirlflow is available to view for free on Going West's website along with others.
Sustainable solutions with Fiona Drummond
Give a kid a job
The recession we are experiencing means that students looking for part-time jobs are facing many challenges.
Positions traditionally filled by teenagers are now in demand for every other demographic. Some employers view the minimum wage is a disincentive when it comes to employing youth as they can probably get a more experienced adult for the same wage. Furthermore, employers have become reluctant to advertise for part-time staff as they know they will be inundated
With the dearth of advertised jobs, students compete to win the few that are advertised and become increasingly frustrated at handing out multiple CVs in the local malls and applying for online positions, seldom having their applications acknowledged.
A student’s first part-time job can be the catalyst for a successful working life for the 25 percent of students who transition directly from school to work as it gives them work experience for their CV. The pathway to full-time employment is so much harder without this experience and statistics show that those without work experience are likely to still be unemployed several years down the track.
That’s where schools come in. Let your local secondary school know about local part-time opportunities you may
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Gotcha ...
Just like you, tens of thousands of other West Aucklanders are actually reading this. And some will come back and read it more than once ...
The fact is that people do read print publications. More often than not, their search for a specific product or service starts with something that they have read somewhere.
And even if they do additional research and make their eventual purchase through some digital platform, their choice could well be shaped by what they have seen in print.
To have your promotional message read by a large, engaged and affluent readership, advertise in a publication that is read.
Contact The Fringe today. Email info@fringemedia.co.nz
know about. Secondary students are known for being the reliable part-timer backbone of many before and after school and holiday programmes, takeaway joints, restaurants, cafés, supermarkets and stores such as Bunnings and Mitre 10, some of which provide a work experience Gateway Programme, leading to a part time job.
Full-time, part-time and volunteering opportunities can all provide valuable work experience and help a student find employment later.
You could also think about employing a student for home jobs you need done or don’t have time for.
For jobs in the Green Bay High School catchment area, email careers@greenbayhigh.school.nz to advertise an opportunity and the school will work to come up with student recommendations for you.
If your own children are struggling to find part-time work, suggest that they make up a flyer listing ways they can help (dog walking, window washing, lawn mowing, gardening, babysitting, pet minding, etc.) and do a letterbox drop in your street. Students could also use their social media accounts (and their parent’s) to post their skills on local community Facebook pages.
Following the recent release of its report on the government’s Child and Youth Strategy, UNICEF Aotearoa is deeply concerned that children’s lives are worsening. Although there has been progress in education attendance, youth offending and young people’s use of alcohol, the report shows worse outcomes in the major areas of food security, affordable housing, hospital admissions and immunisation, and no improvement in material hardship since the previous baseline report. The percentage of young people aged 15-24 who experienced high or very high rates of psychological distress has also increased.
UNICEF Aotearoa’s director of communications, Tania Sawicki Mead, says there are no Government policies that would make meaningful improvements, adding "Trickle down policies simply aren’t going to cut it."
Sustainable solutions with Fiona Drummond
Safe disposal of ‘e-waste’
An estimated 80 million kilograms of e-waste are produced in New Zealand annually, with less than 2% being sent for recycling and the remainder going into landfills.
The most recent audit of Auckland’s kerbside refuse bins (2023) showed that 71% of bins contain electronic waste which should not be there. E-waste often contains batteries (including those in laptops, mobile phones, power tools and cameras) that are hazardous and can produce sparks that may start a fire in rubbish/recycling trucks or recycling facilities.
Rubbish truck fires caused by batteries are costing ratepayers tens of thousands of dollars a year, and the problem is getting worse with at least 13 rubbish truck fires already this year, following 20 fires last year which was almost double the number recorded in 2023.
As well as the safety risk, landfill disposal of batteries also poses an environmental risk of leakage and decay of hazardous materials.
In June 2023, TechCollect NZ published recommendations for New Zealand’s e-product stewardship scheme and the Ministry for the Environment is working with industry and stakeholders on the next steps.
Batteries can be recycled free at Bunnings Warehouse in New Lynn and at Mitre 10 in New Lynn and Lincoln Road. The latter takes alkaline, button cell, lead acid, lithium, Li-Ion, Nickel Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH), Sodium Nickel Chloride (NaNiCl2), rechargeable batteries, and appliance and tool batteries It can also take car batteries. (Tape the contacts and place the battery to the side of the in-store recycling unit.)
For a small charge, e-waste can also be disposed of through Ecomatters (1 Olympic Place, New Lynn; 10am-2pm Wednesdays to Sundays) and Echotech organises four e-waste collections per year in the Green Bay High School car park. Ecotech accepts a wide range of electronic waste, including but not limited to computers, smartphones, tablets, printers, whiteware and televisions. The next collection
213 – 215 Woodlands Park Road, Titirangi, Auckland 0604
Phone: 09 817 8495 or 09 817 6188
www.kenturnermotors.co.nz
dates are July 12, September 20 and November 8. Other e-waste collection points include Noel Leeming on Lincoln Road and Go Recycle at 32 Portage Road, New Lynn.
Auckland’s ‘green heart’: community nurseries
A growing network of nurseries across Auckland is producing native plants for conservation projects, community planting days and school initiatives.
According to Auckland councillor Richard Hills, the propagation of native plants through nurseries is vital to our conservation efforts and restoration of the natural environment. “These seedlings help to repair eco-systems and habitats for animals and insects not only in our native bush, but also our parks and streets.”
The nurseries, driven by volunteers, iwi groups and environmental groups, are not only regenerating ecosystems but also strengthening communities and preparing for the impacts of climate change. They supply thousands of native plants annually for local restoration projects on Auckland Council parks and work with landowners to help improve biodiversity.
There are four community nurseries in the West, at EcoMatters in New Lynn, the Whau River Catchment Trust, Matuku Link in Te Henga, and the Tītīrangi Rudolf Steiner School. There is one at Arataki serving the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, a private nursery in Huia, and the commercial Gordons nursery on Scenic Drive.
Council has committed $2 million in funding over 10 years to support nursery initiatives that increase capacity, diversify plant production, and enhance resilience against environmental challenges.
There’s always one in every crowd
Yeah, gidday, Lizard here.
I guess everyone has someone that’s not really a mate as such, just someone that you’ve known for ages. They’ve hung around a bit but you never really liked them much.
Me and Mopey Jesus went to school with this kid named Rick. We called him ‘Brick' because he was pretty thick plus he had a really innocent but oddly flat sort of face. Mrs Simpson, our English teacher, once said that Brick’s face was an open book. Mopey said, “Albeit, the kind that got banned in some countries.”
Brick was easy-going company I guess but again Mopey Jesus, always saying something that would crack us up, said, “Yeah. Easy to talk to if you avoid allusion, irony, sarcasm, repartee, satire and words longer than ‘chicken’.”
Brick turned out to be one of those people who never voted. “I don’t trust any of them. Not a bloody sound that comes out their ears,” he said. And yet, he seems to agree with every word a politician says! He was delighted when current President of declared there was no such thing as Global Warming. “It was just left-wing nonsense to cripple the economy.” He was downright thrilled when Donald pointed out there would be more seaside property ... but no warming? Go figure!
Whitevan yesterday. I’m not sure why Brick was even with us, he just always seemed to be there. He piped up and said, ”Hey guys. Remember when the government used to give us those little bottles of milk at playtime? That must have made the Farmers Co-op happy. They always had those little tinfoil tops and that started Comalco and that created Lake Manapouri. There was even a song on the radio about it. Something about a fantail and a dam. Remember guys?”
Mopey Jesus said, “The way this mob are heading, they’ll probably get rid of teachers all together. Apparently heaps of people are working a few days a week from home so they can be there to teach their
Brick said, ”Actually it’s not usually the Dad at home. Mum said that when Troy moved in to our place, he was her soul mate who, you know, like, really got her. I always thought there was only one kind of water but the other day Troy said we have to stop three waters. What’s next? Three types of petrol. There’s already much more than just one type of cheese. Next think we know, they’ll be saying there’s three Gods?” This from a guy that couldn’t touch the bottom with a stick.
Mopey Jesus, as per usual, came up with a beaut answer. “Don’t believe the hype, Brick. If you see a cow in a field it’ll probably be a GE goat wearing a sheepskin jacket going quack.” Classic Mopey Jesus.
“Ya see, Lizard and Mopey, I’ve always had a sneaking suspicion that those tree-hugging transvestites and the like were somehow responsible for inflation and now world leaders and even some church folk agree with me. That proves it.”
Mopey Jesus pointed out to me, that when questioned, Brick wasn’t actually too sure what inflation was, or, in truth, what a transvestite was. He knew it was something to do with a general increase in goods and services and he was pretty damn sure he wanted neither from either. I guess there’s always one in every crowd. Brick is enough for two.
We were driving past Green Bay Primary School in
Oh well, I guess life has its swings and roundabouts. Perhaps there’ll be a backlash against all this obsession with money and accumulating huge wealth. I remember when Punk music was all the angry rage but then New Age music followed with a gentler generation. The people I hang out with still believe love will be the answer but who really knows. I give Mopey Jesus the last word, as usual. “Lizard, the nose is the only organ that can see backwards in time. Just go with the flow.” So there.
Later, Lizard. Peace man.
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