MAY'12 - PONSONBY NEWS

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A-Z CAFES & RESTAURANTS IN GREATER PONSONBY + MOTHER’S DAY - 13 MAY THE LONG & WINDING RICHMOND ROAD – a Ponsonby News favourite is RIPE DELI

67,000 READERS PER MONTH The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied (Nielsen Media)

MAY 2012 ponsonbynews.co.nz

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– 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS PUBLISHED 4 MAY, 2012 Established: OCTOBER DEADLINE 1989 – CELEBRATING 22 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

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WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH 069

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From left: VANILLA INK – a small boutique on Richmond Rd; KAGI JEWELLERY GIFT SET – perfect for Mother’s Day; DIDA’S WINE LOUNGE – a great place for an after work drink with Tapas; St Paul’s College student and world record holder MATTHEW MOKOROA; Below: MARVEL - JEANNE CLAYTON, COLIN MATHURA JAFFREY and EVAN WOODRUFFE.

010 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 011 FROM THE EDITOR 012 SHALE CHAMBERS: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD

014 DAVID HARTNELL:

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

015 JOHN ELLIOTT: SOAPBOX 016 PIPPA COOM: GREY LYNN 2030 029 MOTHER’S DAY 033 THE LONG & WINDING RICHMOND ROAD 044 FASHION + STYLE 058 ANGELA LASSIG: LETTERS FROM MAUDIE

062 PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

064 ROTORUA – A SHORT BREAK 067 EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY 088 SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERR 090 HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY 092 HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS 093 LIVING, THINKING + BEING 098 JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH 100 PLANET AYURVEDA: ASK DR AJIT 104 LANI LOPEZ: ON HEALTH 106 DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET: THE DUCHESS OF HAMILTON

110 FUTURE GENERATION 114 HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS 116 FIONNA HILL: PONSONBY GARDENER

057 125 STREET NAMES 132 THE BOYS BOOK CLUB 136 PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS 138 PONSONBY PEOPLE & THEIR PETS 141 ARTS + CULTURE 154 PONSONBY PINK PAGES COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Michael McClintock

PONSONBY NEWS+ is published monthly, excluding January ry byy ALCHEMY A MEDIA LIMITED P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland T: (09) 378 8553 or (09) 361 3356 www.ponsonbynews.co.nzz Editor/Publisher Associate Publisher & Advertising Manager Deputy Editor Operations Manager Contributing Fashion Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Proof Reader Layout Designer Designer

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LETTERS + EMAILS

PLEASE SEND LETTERS TO info@ponsonbynews.co.nz

STIRRING THE POT I have been back in New Zealand for a few years now and was sad to see that boobs are still under wraps. After some time living in Europe and becoming desensitised to bums, boobs and nudity on the beaches it was really, well almost, sad to see that my homeland had still not evolved.

As I sat on the beaches (when it wasn’t raining) I felt uncomfortable that I couldn’t take my togs off. YES that was shocking to say the least. I, who put the letter p in the word prude wanted to get down with my bad self and get nude on the beach. I looked around and was upset to see that my fellow kiwis were all covered up and not once did I see a naked man running down the beach. Maybe we will never get to that stage.

So it got me thinking - why are we like this - why are we so scared to show the world our lovely bits and bobs like the Spanish, the French and the Italians? WHY? Don’t give me that rubbish that it is because our sun is so dangerous. Well yes that clearly is not ideal but then in that case we should all be in some crazy little moon suits and not ever let one little bit of skin see the light of day. Ooh would we go back to the days where showing an ankle is hot. Can you imagine that hey fellas want to see my ankle?

So this is therefore aimed at the sun bathers and not the moon suited ankle showers. So why are we so far behind? Why are we so afraid to get it all out? Will we ever evolve? And yes I do see it as evolving. It is only ever backwards to think that our bodies are not allowed to be out and about. I am not suggesting one takes their kit off and walks down the main street window shopping for the latest fashions, we will always have the golden rule of togs togs undies. Let’s stick to the beaches… for now.

I remember years and years ago I read an article about a woman who was found topless sunbathing on the beach and a mother was outraged. “What about the children?!” she screamed. Um, yeah, what about the children? I am pretty sure a large percentage of us grew up sucking on boobs and we all came out of a vagina. It is all so natural and lovely.

The beaches in Europe are covered in topless women and the men don’t stare or giggle. They are used to it because they have grown up with it. Normal, natural and part of life. The only men staring and giggling were sadly, and embarrassingly, my fellow kiwi men. But it was not their fault - they have not grown up with it and it was always too exciting for them.

LIKE US! www.facebook.com/ponsonbynews “save the children” as you get your beautiful boobs out. It is good for for children to see how the Europeans do it, get them used to it so that when they are in Italy they don’t walk along the beach like a stunned possum, laughing like a hyena high on blue jelly beans. Shame on your undies!

So, get your boobs out! But make sure you use sunscreen and only do it for 11 minutes because our sun is so harsh. So once you are done being European, slip slop slap!

Woo hoo 11 minutes of wild time, let’s get it on! ZOOZOO, Ponsonby TNT WANTS: YOUR MEMORIES! TNT Magazine in London is putting together a special issue on 28 May to mark its 1500th edition - an incredible milestone to reach. And we want YOUR help!

We’re calling on our readers - past and present - to send us their stories about the role TNT Magazine has played in their lives.

Launching in 1983, TNT Magazine was considered the traveller’s bible for Australians and Kiwis visiting or living in London.

As well as collating stories from new arrivals - and those who have made the capital city their home - we want to get in touch with our readers who have now gone back to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

Maybe you picked up the first copy of TNT? Or maybe you met through our Desperately Seeking pages? Perhaps you attended one of our events?

We’d love to hear your anecdotes – big and small – and feature them in our special issue on 28 May. After all, it’s the loyalty of our readers we have to thank for our incredible longevity.

Email your stories to letters@tntmagazine.com with ‘1500th issue’ in the subject by 11 May . We look forward to reading them!

CAROL DRIVER, Group Editor, TNT Magazine, London PN

So what am I saying, and what is the answer? I dunno. I don’t know why we are like an onion with all these layers but I do hope that we will slowly start to come out of our shells. We are a nation that has high suicide rates amongst our men especially, maybe this stems from growing up learning to cover up, learning about low self esteem and not loving yourself - but that is a whole new can of wriggly worms.

I remember I was in Spain once walking along the beach and there was a topless woman lying on her stomach and the only thing she had on was a G-string. She had a very VERY hairy bum. Her whole bum was covered in black hair and guess what… she didn’t care. Her friends didn’t care and the men walking past her didn’t care. Only I cared because it was alarming and shocking and that, my friends, is a reflection on my kiwi up-bringing. I am angered that I have been sheltered from hairy G-string wearing topless babes fresh out of the jungle.

I think the most incredible and most gorgeous thing we could do as New Zealanders is to chill out and relax and start loving our bodies and not be scared of women screaming

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THIS MONTH OUR FOOD EDITOR REBECCA JONES (AKA MISS JONES) has been busy updating our local cafes and restaurants for our A-Z guide this month. There are 12 new comers including Atico, Escobar Espresso, Ipanema, Kokako, Tango PIzza and Cafe O to name but a few. We hope, like us, you will continue to support our locals in what have been tough times for hospitality.

ONE OF MY TEAM’S FAVOURITE HAUNTS IS RICHMOND ROAD, and I regularly support Sliced, the sandwich business, by buying a simple cheese and tomato toastie and some times I’m in the mood for a Green Goddess! A healthy combination of spinach, cucumber, apple and lemon. Priced at only $7, this sets me up for the afternoon.

Richmond Road is the longest road in our community and there are plenty of choices for both retail and healthcare. We hope you enjoy reading Ripe Deli owner Angela Redfern’s story on page 34.

WHEN I FELL ILL SIX WEEKS AGO, JAY AND I DECIDED TO GET away to unwind and recharge our batteries. We went to Rotorua and spent four fabulous nights as guests of Bryan Hughes, Chief Executive of Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort. What a great man he turned out to be and what a fabulous place to convalesce. We had a suite, with a kitchette, and enjoyed views looking towards Mokoia Island - this resort is truly magical. We had spa treatments every day using products from Bryan’s own range Alite. The therapists, Yuki, a gorgeous Japanese girl and Lita Mahy, a Samoan beauty were like angels to us. (When we left Lita rushed out to give us a farewell blessing for a safe return journey to the city).

Bryan Hughes, couldn’t have been more generous. He treated us to four nights dinner in his award-winning Mokoia Restaurant, where they had no less than eight (including soup) vegetarian/vegan options.

On our third day he arranged for us to go to Mokoia Island Bird Sanctuary with guide Rawira. We had a magical afternoon walking through the bush and raking up leaves so birds swooped down to catch insects and worms disturbed by our presence.

When I saw the sign beside Hinemoa’s pool, which said No Swimming, I almost cried, however, Rawira said, “look mate, if you can stand

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

FROM THE EDITOR temperatures of 50 degrees … jump in!” I gingerly put a foot in and before too long sat down in the pool. Rawira told me that since the Christchurch earthquake the temperature in the pool had risen by 10 degrees! While I was soaking, my partner Jay sat at the bush line watching birds coming and going. Suddenly, and rather unexpectedly, a weka appeared and came within a metre or so of Jay. Thankfully, he captured the moment on his iPhone!

“I bet I can get this weka to come and play” said Jay! “I’ve always had a way with the birds!” Back in London, maybe I teased him ... he was always being chatted up in the pub by what he termed dolly birds! This is serious conservation stuff, I told him, this bird is almost extinct!

A BIG THANKS TO THE MINI GARAGE PONSONBY! Those nice guys loaned me a great charcoal coloured MINI COOPER ($48,000 and it was a soft-top) for our long weekend in Rotorua! Thanks guys - we love Mini and are very tempted!

IN CASE ANY REGULAR READERS ARE WONDERING WHERE MY other colleagues are this month, I’ve decided to go it alone to help publicise SAFE’s new ‘Go Veg’ campaign to be launched later this year, in time for World Vegetarian month. I’ve now been vegetarian now for over 50 years and apart from a recent health issue, I’ve been fit and healthy for most of my life.

The SAFE campaign also profiles and names a diverse range of kiwi’s who you may not realise are vegetarian or vegan.... Amongst them are our friend Denise L’Estrange-Corbet of WORLD, ex Thompson Twins and Madge founder Alana Curry, news reader Samantha Hayes, singer-song writers Gin Wigmore, Flip Grater, actors Anna Paquin, Emily Barclay, Lisa Chappell, Tania Nolan and Michelle Langstone, playwright Thomas Sainsbury, directors Peter Salmon and Colin Mitchell, MPs Gareth Hughes, Ruth Dyson, graffiti artist Askew One, rapper/poet/writer Dominic Hoey ak Tourettes, artist Yvonne Todd, Ponsonby Anglican Minister Jody Kilpatrick and yours truly.

Why not consider making this lifestyle choice and joining us?

Next issue: Home interiors and renovations; Win a ‘very Ponsonby’ wardrobe; Sustainability - it’s the little things we do which make a difference.

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photography: Jane Blundell @ kloser

www.twitter.com/Ponsonby_News

CHAIR’S WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT: SHALE CHAMBERS WITH THE SCANDAL OF THE HUGE INCREASE IN POKIE MACHINES AND THE vast financial reach of the Casino’s influence on Auckland and Wellington decision makers swirling around, and angst over the increase in dog license fees reaching fever pitch, it may have passed by residents of this wonderful city of ours that the term of this first Auckland Council is halfway through. The question we as Board members are regularly asked at the opening of new facilities, consultative meetings for Plans and policies, free events in our neighbourhoods, and in the street is ‘Is the supercity succeeding for our communities?’ The answer up until now has been a ‘we are still waiting and seeing…’. It’s now time to make some informed comment.

Local Boards have been staffed with dedicated and highly competent people, but under-resourced and under-reported too until recently to effectively carry out their non regulatory responsibilities for local facilities and services, and to fulfil their role of local place making and shaping and local leadership. The Local Board Plan is the Board’s most significant achievement because we have largely been resourced to hold meetings and workshops with our communities and find out the priorities you want. For matters local we increasingly have transparency on the budget to deliver them. For matters where decisions in our local area are made at the Governing Body or CCO level our recommendations do hold weight.

Where we hold the budget we have, subject to that limited budget, been able to plan for or advance your wishes on projects like heritage plans, upgrading local parks, upgrading recreational facilities, feasibility studies, ecological restoration prioritisation, water fountains in parks, community planting, new park management plans, art works, support of local events and community grants.

The major CCO that the Board ‘advocates’ to is Auckland Transport which spends half of the rates budget. Here we are to the fore in advocating both local and regional priorities. From local matters such as an increase in road safety through an audit of intersections and car speed reductions to improve movement of pedestrians, to bike parking in town centres, dedicated cycleways, the new residents parking scheme and footpath upgrades.

In regional matters our major focus has been the construction of the City Centre Rail link, construction of the third harbour crossing in the form of a tunnel, completion of the regional cycleway in the inner communities and the Auckland Harbour Bridge Pathway.

It is in the area of Auckland Council policy that influence is harder to gauge as yet.

We have however provided leadership that has been asked of us by our communities in heritage and character protection, good quality design of new residential and

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commercial buildings, and planning for growth that does not compromise our heritage and character, and local community and sporting facilities that are used by more and more of our locals.

We are proud as a team of many initiatives and changes that are a direct result of your Waitemata Local Board’s proactive members working tirelessly and amongst these are: • Allowing local boards now to have a say in notification on the demolition of character and heritage and on larger developments like the Beaumont Quarter.

• The canning of the SkyCity overbuild over Federal Street, whilst supporting the street’s upgrade • Auckland becoming a Fair Trade City • Completion of the upgrade of Tepid Baths and progressing an upgrade of Pt Erin Baths • The new Victoria Park Skate Park, and Campbells Free Kindergarten building restoration • The approved new two-field all-weather artificial turf fields and training surfaces for Seddons Field in Westmere • Support of the Art Deco society in its endeavours to preserve the Wynyard Quarter character buildings • Auckland Transport’s new $10m local board contestable fund for local projects • The identification and enforcement of existing public concession through links in the city centre • Zero waste initiative in the Waste Management Plan • The long neglected upgrade of Myers Park in the inner city • Consultation plans for a new Weona, Westmere coastal walkway, and completion of the Hobson Bay to Pt Resolution section of the Parnell to Westmere coastal walkway.

It is clear that the Local Board is having far more direct say over locally allocated matters and influence over non regulatory other matters and how our community is shaped and resourced than community boards ever did. I believe that this influence and the leadership opportunity will only increase over time as Council officers realise decisions must rest where they can best be made. The Governing Body will focus on regional decisions and active local boards on local decisions and have the corresponding delegations and budgets to do the job. My hope is that the vitally important regulatory area will also follow to local boards where it matters locally. We’re up to the challenge.

(SHALE CHAMBERS) Contact me: shale.chambers@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz PN

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH GRANT CHILCOTT Impresario Grant Chilcott is a crooner singer in the style of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Tony Bennett; he lives right on the border of Auckland City and Parnell. Several years ago Sir Paul McCartney enjoying a late night party for a few friends at what was then the Regent Hotel, overheard Grant and the resident band finishing their set and preparing to go home. Sir Paul wasn’t having it and asked Grant and the band to play on.

CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My tennis backhand-once described by my tennis coach as the ugliest he had ever seen.

WHAT DRIVES YOU? Wild cool and swinging music.

ONE MEMORABLE MUSICAL MOMENT? The night I was providing entertainment for a corporate group during interval of a Jose Carreras concert. Unexpectedly Carreras came into the function room, listened to me for a bit, stepped up to the microphone, slapped me on the back, and said “What are we going to sing together?”

FAVOURITE TV SHOWS? David Letterman and Hyacinth Bucket. I’ve met so many people like her.

WITH ENDLESS TIME AND MONEY WHAT WOULD YOU DO FIRST? Buy a studio and hire the world’s best music talent-there is quite a few right here in New Zealand.

TWO THINGS YOU’D TAKE TO A DESERT ISLAND AND WHY? My daughters Claudia and Charlotte because they are such a joy.

DESCRIBE YOURSELF NAKED IN JUST FIVE WORDS? Lean, mean, and ready to sing.

WHO’S YOUR FANTASY FEMALE MOVIE STAR? Sandra Bullock.

YOU HATE IN PEOPLE? I don’t hate people – but my bete-noir is discrimination and bigotry.

YOU LOVE IN PEOPLE? Enthusiasm and good humour.

INVISIBLE FOR A DAY, WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Sit-in on a recording session with Josh Groban.

TELL ME THE LATEST GOSSIP YOU HAVE HEARD ABOUT YOURSELF THAT WAS UNTRUE? I was once seen holding hands with Kate Middleton. But she later married Prince William.

HEROES? Kotama Okada-Founder of Sukyo Mahikari.

WHAT WOULD YOU CALL YOUR AUTOBIOGRAPHY? “In the Wee Small Hours” – The Chilcott Diaries.

DID YOU COME FROM A SHOWBIZ FAMILY? No, but my father had a wonderful tenor voice and my mother was quite a show-off.

YOUR DREAM PLACE TO SING? Madison Square Garden with orchestra conducted by and arranged by Quincy Jones.

LIVE THEATRE OR TV WHICH DO YOU LIKE BEST? TV especially live TV. SECRET PASSION? Create my own TV music-chat programme. Actually I’m looking for sponsors for a new show right now.

VICES? I have a few but won’t be discussing them here.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? I once had a lovable Lab-Retriever, Wolverine. Sadly, he got voted off the Body Corporate for Wolving too much.

FAVOURITE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT PONSONBY? The vitality and diversity of Ponsonby Road.

BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? I am blessed with great friends from all walks of life who assure me that a good life is one of health, harmony, and prosperity.

WHAT’S YOUR IDEA OF FUN? Tennis. I find it to be very jazzy-the rules are simple, the variations are endless, and you have to have a perfect balance of thinking, technique, and intuition to win. You have to play from where you are and react to what comes at you. It’s also at being present, playing each stroke of each point and not getting ahead of yourself-just like a musician taking a solo.”

DO YOU HAVE A BUCKET LIST? I don’t have a big enough bucket to put in all my dreams.

ARE YOU A MORNING OR NIGHT PERSON? I’m in show business. Night time is my play time.

IF LIFE HAD TAUGHT YOU ONE THING WHAT WAS IT? ALWAYS tell - and respond to the truth.

WHO’S YOUR FAVOURITE SINGER AND WHY? Johnny Hartman – not too well known but my idea of the best example of a jazz baritone with a wonderful timbre.

(DAVID HARTNELL MNZM) PN

MOST CHERISHED FASHION ITEM? My gold chain type monogrammed cufflinks.

IF YOUR HOUSE CAUGHT FIRE THE FIRST THING YOU’D GRAB? My Goshintai – which is a Divine Scroll and a contact point with God. DESCRIBE YOUR HUMOUR? Quirky, satirical, musical.

FRIENDS DESCRIBE YOU AS? Eccentric and spontaneous. New Zealand’s answer to Tony Bennett.

WHAT STAR SIGN ARE YOU AND ARE YOU TYPICAL? Taurus - but I hope that doesn’t make people think I’m full of bull.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST PROFESSIONAL SINGING JOB? The Performance Cafe in Symonds Street - the owner passed around a hat!

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE NEW ZEALAND’S PRIME MINISTER FOR A DAY? Open parliament with a song.

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JOHN ELLIOTT: SOAP BOX TWENTY STOREY HIGH RISE APARTMENTS FOR PONSONBY AND GREY LYNN? THE DRAFT AUCKLAND PLAN IS A MAMMOTH DOCUMENT, BEAUTIFULLY bound and presented, with lovely maps, charts, and graphs. It is prosaic, with carefully worded priorities and directives, all nicely boxed. This Plan is designed to see Auckland successfully through to 2040.

Overall, I think it is visionary, optimistic, very environmentally friendly, seeking to produce a City in 2040 more liveable than today, and more loved by its citizens. But there is an elephant in the room – population growth. Where are we going to put all the new Aucklanders who are set to flock into our city by 2040? Auckland’s population is projected to grow to between 2.2 and 2.5 million over the next 30 years. Nearly 400,000 additional dwellings will be required to house those incomers.

The Draft Plan states “The quality, compact urban form underpinning the Draft Auckland Plan will focus on growth within the existing urban areas for around 60% of the new housing.” If the City continues to sprawl over adjacent rural land, as it has in the past, we would need approximately 32,000 hectares of new land. This would mean covering more valuable farm land around Kumeu, Whitford, and other fringe city communities with rows and rows of houses on quarter acre sections.

Auckland is already a hugely spread out city for its population, by world standards.

The increasing costs associated with urban sprawl including transport, water and waste water, are unsustainable. Fortunately, there are increasing numbers of New Zealanders who appreciate the advantages of smaller sections, smaller houses or apartments with less maintenance. These people include the elderly, empty nesters, young flatters, workers who want to be close to work, and migrants who are not wedded to the quarter acre, pavlova, paradise.

So the Plan addresses the question of where the growth areas can and should be.

The City Centre and City Centre Fringe (that’s our patch!!), are targeted areas for population intensification. The resident population in the City Centre is projected to increase from about 23,000 now to 78,000 in 2040. This will require more high rise accommodation, and will spill over to the City Centre Fringe which includes Ponsonby and Grey Lynn.

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Where then did the heading for this article come from? Well, the Plan identifies Ponsonby and Three Lamps as areas where apartments from 4 to 20 plus storeys could be appropriate. It also points out that Ponsonby and Freeman’s Bay are good examples of close living on small sections, where amenity and lifestyle are not inhibited.

As far as Grey Lynn is concerned, it does list a caveat which states “Grey Lynn has limited opportunity for growth because of constraints such as heritage, amenity and infrastructure provision.” But that does not let Grey Lynn completely off the hook, because elsewhere in the Plan it identifies growth corridors, one being Great North Road to Surrey Crescent and Grey Lynn.

Concerning those growth corridors it says this “Auckland has a number of key corridors that provide opportunities for intensification and accompanying future growth WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE CORRIDOR.” (Capitals added by me.)

Do you see 20 storey apartments around Crummer Road, Williamson Avenue, and all the Grey Lynn Heights streets off Great North Road? The intensification has to go somewhere, and most agree urban sprawl cannot continue unchecked, but high rise plans around our iconic 1900s villas won’t get too many high fives from local residents.

They may just say ‘go build at Glorit’ (a little community near Helensville), and get out of my back yard.

Naturally the plan is not too specific, and it makes some useful, if rather grand statements. “Increase housing choice to meet preference and need.” “Improve the quality of existing and new housing” (will they put in a new kitchen for me?). “We need to retrofit older houses.” (will the council do that? Some older people can hardly pay their rates, let alone retrofit!!)

The grand vision says Auckland can become the most liveable city by 2040 if we have the courage and determination to implement this Draft Plan. All very well, until you have a 10 storey apartment looking down on you , and blocking your view and your sun. NIMBY ism will be rife – not in my back yard!! But good luck to a council who is thinking long term, and does show lots of vision, even if it’s often blurred by fuzzy words and grand eloquent phrases. (JOHN ELLIOTT) PN

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PIPPA COOM GREY LYNN 2030 NEWS NICOLE FOSS DELIVERED A POWERFUL PRESENTATION ON THE GLOBAL financial and energy challenges to a packed meeting in Grey Lynn last month.

Regardless of whether you agree with her gloomy economic predictions, her views on why community matters resonate widely. As we have learnt from the experience of the Christchurch earthquake, it is the essential combination of local resources, resilience and relationships of trust that are needed for a community to be able to adapt and cope with change. Grey Lynn 2030 offers many choices for getting involved locally.

One of our newest initiatives is to set up a local version of Time Banking. This is a form of reciprocal exchange under which people trade hours of their time instead of money to share skills and get the services they need. With Time Banking every person is equally valued hence skills that are often taken for granted are given a measurable value – particularly non-market economy skills like childcare, company and caring, simply taking time to sit with someone and listen.

sunshine, both birds and gardeners have shared in the crop. Likewise the tomatoes benefitted from the conditions, added to which our rich nitrate compost (from coffee and local cafes waste) encouraged growth and fruits.

A kind gentleman from Old Mill Road donated many of the plants. The new bed of brassicas are growing rapidly with the kind weather of sunshine and rain. We always welcome committed gardeners who want to share the work and harvest of Wilton Street community garden.

Also happening locally: the Energy Focus Group, a Community Safety Group, Community Choir, Grey Lynn shops tidy-up, fruit tree planting, Green Screen (environmental focused movies on the last Sunday of the month), the Grey Lynn Business Association and weekly presentations at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market.

More details at greylynn2030.co.nz (PIPPA COOM) PN

No matter what type of work is done if you give one hour’s work, you receive one hour time credit. If you have another member do one hour’s work, they are paid one hour time credit. Time banking is a valuable tool in building trust and care within a community and has been very successfully applied in Lyttelton to deliver essential services and re-establish social cohesion after the earthquake. Contact greylynn2030@gmail.com The Waste Away focus group is looking for keen volunteers. A group of enthusiastic individuals committed to educating our community around waste issues and waste reduction as well as identifying and implementing waste reduction initiatives. Our volunteers meet monthly to talk rubbish, we have a roster to help out at our stall at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market once every two months or so (or whatever you can commit to) and we organise recycling at local community events two to three times per year.

For further information please contact us: greylynn2030wasteaway@gmail.com or call Colinda T: 09 378 8966 or M: 021 582 600 The joy of the end of summer is the abundant crop of figs that the Wilton Street Community Garden has provided. Fat from earlier rains and sweet from the later

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 LOCAL NEWS COMMUNITY GARDEN GETS A HAND FROM NEW ANZ GREY LYNN STAFF The Wilton Street Community Gardens got an unexpected volunteer boost on Sunday when five staff from the new ANZ Grey Lynn branch turned up to help out.

Branch manager Leanne Roberts said the team spent the morning weeding the pumpkin patch and pruning the tomato plants.

The Wilton Street Garden (behind Gypsy Tea Rooms on Richmond Road) is one of three community gardens in Grey Lynn, and grows herbs, fruit and vegetables as well as running a composting unit.

Each staff member at ANZ is entitled to one day’s paid volunteer leave to assist a charity or community organisation of their choice. Last month the ANZ team cleaned up the streets with the Grey Lynn Business Association.

Left to right: JULIA ZHOU, LEANNE ROBERTS, DENNIS SULIT, TERRY HERNANDEZ and ROSHNI SINGH.

The new branch, located on Great North Road in the Surrey Crescent shops, opened with a Community Gala Day over Easter, and locals and families attended.

The Gala Day featured performances from the Grey Lynn Community Choir, cast members of the upcoming musical Chess and former Shortland Street actress Leela Patel sang a mix of traditional Indian and pop.

“There was an Easter hamper prize draw and coffees for a gold coin donation at Kokako, the new café across the road, with all proceeds benefiting Grey Lynn Primary School,” says Leanne Roberts.

Northern Mystics Captain, and former Silver Fern, Temepara George announced the winner of the Grey Lynn Primary School colouring competition and the winner received a signed netball and ANZ sports merchandise pack.

Leanne Roberts says the new branch will be much more convenient for customers living and working in the area. “This is the first time we’ve had a branch in Grey Lynn, joining nearby branches in K Road, Ponsonby and St Lukes.” PN

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JOHN ELLIOTT GREY LYNN 2030 HOSTS INTERNATIONAL EXPERT NICOLE FOSS Grey Lynn was privileged to host international lawyer and energy consultant Nicole Foss, who spoke to a packed house at the Grey Lynn RSC on Monday 16 April.

Foss is co-editor of Automatic Earth, where she writes under the name Stoneleigh. She has headed the Agri-Energy Producers’ Association of Ontario and was editor of “The Oil Drum Canada.” She has written extensively on peak oil and finance.

Foss spoke little about her life on a 40 acre Canadian farm, where she migrated back from London to live the simple rural life. She has set it up as self sufficiently as possible with solar energy for power, and grows all sorts of food.

Foss argues that the current global economic crisis is symptomatic of the decline of the “fossil fuel age.” Foss believes that resource limits, including peak oil and the collapse of global finance, are a “perfect storm” of converging phenomena that threaten to trigger wealth destruction, social discontent and global conflict. She argues that most people in the western world today will face this crisis without the knowledge or means to provide the basics of their own survival, as our industrial system has nearly destroyed the individual capacity for self-reliance.

That we must build local community is a strong plea of Nicole Foss. Pool our resources, build community gardens, build social capital. Foss stresses that relationships of trust are the foundation of a successful society. Foss urges us to face uncertainty with flexibility and resilience. Dependency is always a vulnerable factor. We need “grass roots structures that are responsive, flexible, accountable and cheap.” There will no longer be “business as usual”, Foss asserts. “So decentralise and take local control.”

The audience was treated to a fluent speech – the current world financial system “is a giant ponzi scheme” she asserts.

Foss warned of some of New Zealand’s problems - foreign banks, (most Australia owned and over leveraged) trade dependency, vulnerability on commodity prices, (I note milk products have fallen on the international markets as I write this a week after Foss’s address, and returns to dairy farmers will be correspondingly less next payout season), a housing bubble which will inevitably burst (Auckland house prices may be 80% overvalued, I think she said, but my mind wouldn’t accept it), complacency, vulnerable currency valuation.

All very gloomy stuff, but she did say isolation can have advantages – we can build a good resource base, pool those resources, and build local community. But we can’t afford to be complacent.

What Foss says that we need is not panic, but “an informed sense of urgency.” We must live in a simpler society,” she says, “where we move as far as possible into hard goods.” Land with production potential, shelter, water infrastructure, cooking equipment, medicines, books and manuals, enough clothing and protection.”

This brilliant international speaker, author and practitioner of what she preaches had two parting shots - “The future belongs to the adaptable,” and “remember what it means to be truly happy.” There is more to life than a new i-Pod every year.

Foss’s message was good news for Grey Lynn 2030 which has enthusiastically adopted many of the local initiatives she promotes - the transition town concept, community garden, farmer’s market. Perhaps we should investigate a local currency, something Foss championed at the meeting. How does “Grey Lynn dollars” sound? It finally boils down to who we can trust with our money - the ASB, owned by the Bank of Scotland, the Oz banks, National and ANZ - or under the mattress?

Perhaps those of us who are sick of the angst involved with consumerism, keeping up with the Joneses, materialism gone mad and the depression of so many of our best citizens, need to heed Nicole Foss, simplify our lives, decide more carefully what we need rather than what we want, and downsize our lifestyle.

Someone once said that New York Cemetery is full of people who thought they were indispensable. And just to end on a very old saying, nobody on their deathbed ever said they wished they’d spent more time at the office. (JOHN ELLIOTT) PN

CAN YOU BELIEVE THE LATEST POLITICAL POLL? IT’S EASY TO UNDERSTAND JOHN KEY’S SMUGNESS RIGHT NOW. DESPITE a majority of New Zealanders opposing the sale of the Crafar farms to the Chinese consortium, despite majority opposition to asset sales, and a number of other unpopular policy decisions, National is riding high in the latest poll at very nearly 50%. Labor is languishing at under 30%. The Greens are on an all time high of 14%.

It is that 20% gap between National and Labor that really stunned me, but when I began to analyse it, it was not so surprising.

Huge swings of the political pendulum have become more commonplace in the last decade or so. Governments tend to go out of favour very quickly once they begin on the slippery, popularity slide downhill.

Last month I was in Queensland for the State Elections. Labor had been in power most of the last 20 years. In 2002, the Liberal/National coalition was decimated in that election leaving only a tiny rump of Lib/Nats with seats, mainly in rural Queensland.

Just ten years later the reverse happened. Labor was routed – left with only 7 seats – losing some 45 seats out of the 90 odd in their state parliament which they had held before the election.

Even crusty old commentators were searching their memory banks trying to find a worse reversal of fortune. They could not find one – it was Labor ’s worst defeat in Australia’s history. So I say – look out National – smugness will do you down very quickly in a much more savvy electorate where social media plays an increasing role in informing everyone what is going on, and where Governments’ lose, rather than Oppositions’ win.

In its first term this National Government moved carefully. John Key smiled a lot, identified as a relaxed family man, who you would enjoy having a beer with at a BBQ, but also someone you could feel proud of representing New Zealand dining with the Queen. He appeared to be a pragmatist, and showed little political ideology.

He embraced the Maori Party, and struck up a memorandum of understanding with the Greens. But now in its second term we see a very different John Key, and a very different National Government. A number of policy positions have moved this Government way to the right.

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This has been exacerbated by the undue influence of the almost extinct Act Party, with former National cabinet minister, John Banks its sole and lonely remnant.

Just which of these policy settings, are a worry for those who have seen the devastation caused by neo-liberal right wing Governments under Thatcher, Reagan, and John Howard. Even Tony Blair’s third way was just Thatcherism-like.

Here is a frightening list: • State asset sales – selling off the family silver, which is returning good dividends. So-called sales to mum and dad investors, who already own the bloody assets anyway!!

• Overseas land purchases – sure Labor allowed this, but a trickle could soon become a flood. It’s time to say enough and it’s not about racism or xenophobia – say no to Americans, Germans, Brits – not only Chinese.

Remember - tenants in our own land John – you said it.

• Free Trade Agreements – if these affect our sovereign rights they are faulty agreements.

• Charter Schools – a harebrained idea hatched by the dying Act Party, discredited in most parts of the world and just another right wing privatisation bid.

And then there is deep sea oil exploration, fracking, lignite mining in Southland, mining the conservation estate (just on the back burner for another attempt later), the obsession with roads at a time of peak oil, tax cuts for the rich and GST rises for the poor, an obsession with economic growth at all costs never mind the environmental devastation and species loss, a desire to loosen up the Resource Management Act to help National’s developer mates, and last but by no means least, international condemnation at the growing inequality gap between rich and poor in New Zealand – among the fastest growing gaps in the OECD. That inequality gap may just be the nastiest legacy left by National when it gets kicked out, which I predict will happen at the next election. Voters can be apathetic, often because they feel politicians don’t listen to them, but they also know how to throw out parties at the ballot box. Ask some of those shell shocked Labor MPs in Queensland who were sitting on “safe” majorities of 10 -15%. They have felt the full wrath of the public. It can happen here. (JOHN ELLIOT) PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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JOHN ELLIOTT COUNCIL STEPS UP OVERSIGHT OF VICTORIA PARK SKATEPARK LOCAL RESIDENTS NEAR VICTORIA PARK, INCLUDING BEAUMONT QUARTER, were relieved when a second skatepark competition on Saturday 21 April went off without a hitch.

The earlier event, several weeks ago, was a shambles according to Ulf Behncke, Complex Manager, Beaumont Quarter. He told Ponsonby News there appeared to be no health and safety plan in place, no St Johns presence, no security, no Council presence, no noise management, no traffic plan.

Behncke agreed with Council Events Facilitator Natasha Roughton that all those issues had been addressed for the Saturday 21 April event. Roughton, who is responsible for all events on Victoria Park, told Ponsonby News the Council had learned from the previous event. The clean-up bill for the first event ($8,000) has been sent to the organiser. “It was a nightmare,” agreed Roughton.

Previously, the Council rated skate events as low risk, but had now raised that to high risk.

Ulf Behncke stressed to Ponsonby News that Beaumont Quarter was not anti skatepark and do not have any issues with skatepark users. “They were there before us,” Behncke told us, “and as long as Council monitors events and use generally, there is no problem.”

We at Ponsonby News were impressed with the quick, hands on approach, taken

by Natasha Roughton and other council staff to ensure there was no repeat of the previous shemozzle.

The credentials of organisers must be carefully scrutinised, especially if the event is mainly for children. Mitigation measures can be put in place where there are doubts.

When there are calls from central government for local councils to stick to the knitting, providing rubbish collection, water and waste water plans, footpath and local roading control, and little else that will inflate ratepayers bills, the council must be scrupulously careful to run events that cost ratepayers money, very parsimoniously.

Rates are too high now – don’t burden us with any more!

Having said that, Ponsonby News wants to congratulate Natasha Roughton and her team for the positive, pro-active way they dealt with the 21 April event at the Victoria Park skatepark. It went a long way towards remedying the unmitigated disaster of the earlier event. (JOHN ELLIOTT) PN

photography: Michael McClintock

“I was there myself,” Natasha Roughton told Ponsonby News, “and the latest event ran very smoothly, Police were present and so were noise control officers, St John’s ambulance staff, and lots of parents. We are conscious that Council conditions for events must be in place, and events must be properly managed.” Indemnity insurance should be in place too.

HARRY DANSEY RESERVE GARDEN IF YOU USE THE PATHWAY THROUGH HARRY Dansey Reserve to get to Wellington Street or Anglesea Street you will have noticed how bare the garden beside the pathway is. This shortcut is used by many locals going to and from work, to the Wellington Street shops, Freemans Bay Medical Centre and the Oma Rapiti Early Learning Centre in Pratt Street. Currently the garden is neglected and not attractive.

Neighbours adjoining the Harry Dansey Reserve are planning to beautify this garden and are inviting volunteers to help with the planting on Saturday 12 May. The Auckland Council is providing a variety of mainly native plants that will withstand the dry conditions of summer and provide year round interest and pleasure for the Reserve and pathway users.

Organiser, Edreen Sheath would welcome the help of locals and those who use the pathway or anyone who would like to support this community garden project.

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Planting is planned for Saturday 12 May from 1.30pm to 4pm. Any assistance you can give during this time will be most appreciated. T: 09 361 6399 or M: 0274 354 928 if you are able to help us.

Refreshments will be provided along with a sausage sizzle (weather permitting) at the end of the day. Please wear sturdy footwear (no jandals) bring gloves and a labelled spade - if you don’t have a spade come anyway, there will be some spare garden tools available and any support and help you can give will be greatly appreciated. PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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 LOCAL NEWS THE CORRIDORS OF POWER ‘A PUBLIC SERVANT IS PERSONALLY free and appointed to his position on the basis of conduct.’ Retired public servant, Kenneth Richardson must have demonstrated exemplary conduct because he walked the corridors of power for 38 years serving five prime ministers as private or principal private secretary.

Now comfortably ensconced in his eyrie on the ninth floor of Highgate Towers he remains the soul of discretion when giving a rundown on the various roles he played since joining the service in 1958.

Kenneth was born in Liverpool in 1932 and on leaving school was conscripted into the British Army as was mandatory at the time. Later, when working in Dundee he spotted an advertisement for a job in the New Zealand Public Service. He duly applied, was interviewed, accepted, and given free passage to Wellington. “My cabin mate made much more of an impact in New Zealand than I did.” He was Roger Hall who wrote a sketch to entertain fellow passengers because, “it wasn’t a luxury ship by any manner of means.”

On arrival, Kenneth joined The Treasury but was soon posted to the New Zealand Embassy in the Netherlands as Attaché/Immigration and Vice Consul. Five years later he returned and served as private secretary to a number of ministers in various departments. He was in Foreign Affairs and Trade when Europe was cutting back on our exports, which involved an enormous amount of travel with Sir Brian Talboys. When First Secretary and Assistant to the High Commissioner in London he was very chagrined to be abruptly called back to work in the PM’s office at the request of Muldoon.

Muldoon had a reputation Kenneth felt he could do without but by 1984 it was apparent the old warhorse was a spent force and after the election Kenneth became Principal Private Secretary to David Lange with whom he formed a special relationship. The Public Service is all about continuity and someone as experienced as Kenneth knew all the procedures and levels of protocols both within and outside New Zealand. For instance one never shakes hands with a lady in Iran and so on. This sort of knowledge was invaluable to David who had never been a minister.

By 1990, Kenneth decided he’d had enough of politicians so he applied for and was appointed Official Secretary to the Governor General, Sir Paul Reeves. On his first day while exploring the grounds, he slipped and broke his leg in two places. He cried for help from the gardeners who had no idea who he was. There he lay on a flowerbed in his best Cardin suit and informed them he was their new boss! Not something you’d want to happen when about to take over an organisation and revitalise it. Then Reeves persuaded him to move into the Duke’s Suite so he convalesced there in splendour till he could walk with crutches.

When Paul Reeves finished his term of office Cath Tizard arrived in a blast of fresh air. She wanted to turn Government House into a friendly place. The staff were back in a Downton Abbey era and very resistant to change. The place had been run on the lines of Buckingham Palace and was intimidating for the average person who arrived to receive a decoration. Curtseying and bowing were not tolerated and Cath didn’t even like to be called Your Excellency. She and Kenneth became close friends and when he retired before her term ended she was very cross with him and to this day, still accuses him of desertion.

The day after he retired, Kenneth got into his car and drove to Auckland. He told his friends it was like leaving Paremoremo Prison. He found Wellington a good base but not a leisured city and prefers Auckland’s climate, environment and atmosphere.

He turns eighty in June and still loves to cycle around Ponsonby when and wherever he can.

This brief synopsis doesn’t do justice to Kenneth’s life and times. He has been approached by publishing houses to write his memoirs but has resisted so far, claiming to be too lazy. He is enjoying his retirement and says without New Zealand he would never have had such an interesting and varied life. Well New Zealand has been just as fortunate to gain the services of a man endowed with ineffable charm and grace, while attaining remarkable success in his chosen career. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

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LOCAL NEWS: DEIRDRE ROELANTS



A COMPANY THAT KEEPS UP WITH THE TIMES Ponsonby based Satellite Media began life twelve years ago as a television production company with music the predominant hub of activity. David Rose was the founding Managing Director till in early 2007 he divested himself of his interests in the company. Nick Lowe is the present Managing Director and runs the company ably assisted by Nikki Streater, the General Manager who joined two years after it was first set up. South Pacific Pictures own a share of the business so naturally there’s close co-operation between the two.

Since its inauguration Satellite has expanded its activities to include magazine publishing, mobile technology, websites, facebook applications, digital signage, and over the years staff numbers have increased from the original six to thirty five. It still produces a lot of television shows such as Rock the Nation, which was the countdown to Sporting Moments, and Comedy specials including the Comedy Christmas Gala.

The latest is a brand new thirty five part television series, Neighbourhood. Each week a well known New Zealander who has a special tie with an area, looks at the diversity within its community and the cultural history it has to tell. This show takes the viewer on a journey to different neighbourhoods the length and breadth of New Zealand. The first episode screened on TV One Sunday 29 April at 11.00am.

The expansion of the company owes much to the digital functions it has developed.

Making websites for TV shows led to servicing a whole bunch of clients including heavyweights such as Vodafone and Coca Cola. Then followed applications for mobile phones, and for the retail sector, large digital screens. These touch screens are invaluable in stores because they show a lot of information that is harder to see on a little phone screen. With this combination of television shows, print (which is Rip it Up magazine) and digital applications, Satellite can justifiably claim to be a true mixed media operation.

Acquiring New Zealand’s oldest music magazine was a canny move. Rip it Up dates back more than twenty five years. The brainchild of Murray Cammick, it was circulated free in record shops for fourteen years. Now a bi-monthly, it continues to offer its readers all the very best and latest news about local and international music. Nikki tells me the great thing about Rip it Up is its long established relationships. Many of its former writers have moved elsewhere to places such as New York, London and LA and they pitch Rip it Up stories that are predominantly about entertainment which is interesting because their stories are different and from the wider world.

Satellite’s television department tends to ebb and flow because it’s a freelance medium and depends on what series get the green light. The same applies to Satellite’s writers who are not all full-time. The majority of the staff are the digital guys but the Satellite ethos is all about developing and maintaining good relationships and looking after people, so consequently those same people contribute towards a successful and happy work environment.

Nick Lowe was looking at digital before anyone else was catching on and has been the driving force in that area for a long time. Most importantly, Nikki says, Satellite is about telling stories, either in a magazine, on television, or on a website. It’s a matter of coming up with the idea of a story first, then thinking about where it should live. No matter how good the technology, it’s no use unless it has something to say.

Satellite moved from College Hill to Ponsonby Road about three years ago and everyone in the company loves the new location. Most of their clients are in the area and all their needs such as good coffee, cafés, easy transport are within cooee. In Nikki’s case it’s close to where she lives and almost next door to SPQR, her all time favourite watering hole. It’s been suggested her office should have a fireman’s pole installed, leading directly down to the bar.

In the meantime we’ll keep tuned into Neighbourhood, waiting and watching out for the episode that looks at Ponsonby. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

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QUALITY LANDMARK BUILDINGS – LEASING AND RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES SEARCHING AND BROWSING FOR TENANCIES MADE EASY The forlease.co.nz site is set up to allow both agents and businesses seeking tenancies to easily search and browse available options. The site offers a number of features designed to give the right information in the most efficient way.

THESE FEATURES INCLUDE: • • • • • • • •

Quick search by property type/location Quick search by floor area Browse by building Full details of the property including Image gallery Video walk through for selected buildings Full tenancy details Ability to PDF the property summary FOR AGENTS WE OFFER A NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL FEATURES TO INCLUDE:

• •

Ability to set up notification preferences, which allows agents to be notified when a new property is listed Ability to PDF and email a property summary to our client.

More recently we’ve developed some mobile apps for the iPhone and Android operating system that allow direct access to the available properties on the go.

These apps work on both phones and tablets. The apps work in real-time and also have “geo-location” features for example “show me properties close to me”. www.forlease.co.nz For any enquiries please contact T: 09 522 0039

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS  SEARCH IS ON FOR SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT HEROES Auckland Council is calling for entries and nominations for its Sustainable Environment Awards 2012, with the winners to be announced in July.

Held every two years, the awards recognise individuals and groups helping to protect and enhance Auckland’s environment and heritage.

Auckland Council Environment and Sustainability Forum Chairperson Wayne Walker says the main aim of the awards is to help reward the people making a positive difference to Auckland’s environment and heritage. “The awards programme helps raise the profile of community-led sustainable environment activity, the great results being achieved, and the inspiration this provides for others.”

Councillor Walker urges people to be proud of their achievements and get their entries in, or to nominate a deserving individual or group. “Whether you are a school implementing an energy-saving programme, or a community group creating an organic garden in the local community, we want to celebrate your good work,” says Councillor Walker.

Entries close on 9 May. Winners will be announced on 30 July.

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THIS YEAR’S AWARD CATEGORIES ARE: • Individuals – recognising sustainable environment leadership and commitment • Sustainable schools – recognising commitment and practical action by schools/tertiary institutions within their campus and/or local community • Youth – recognising commitment and practical action by people aged under 25 years • Sustainable communities – recognising sustainable environment achievement by a community group or family • Supreme – recognising the stand-out project across all categories.

The Auckland Council Sustainable Environment Awards are a continuation of the former Auckland Regional Council’s awards. PN For more information visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/environment or email environmentawards@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

IMPROVING DIGITAL LITERACY RECENTLY I WAS PLEASED TO CALL FOR THE EDUCATION AND SCIENCE Select Committee to conduct an inquiry into 21st Century Learning Environments. A number of parties across the political spectrum supported this inquiry.

As a Government we have committed to investing $1 billion in more modern schools.

We will be building new, high-tech schools, upgrading and refocusing our existing school facilities, creating vibrant new, modern teaching areas within existing schools, and continue to wire more schools with fibre for Ultra-Fast Broadband. In fact by the end of 2015, 97.7 per cent of schools, and 99.9 per cent of students will be using Ultra-Fast Broadband at speeds of up to 100Mbps. No school will miss out on access to faster internet, making ours one of the most connected education networks around.

As we upgrade our broadband, we need to ensure our buildings are geared to make the most of it. Many of our schools were built during the mid-20th century. During this time, education models were focused on teacher centric setups – think rows of desks in front of a blackboard. This model is outdated because of the huge advances in technology and the changing role of learners and teachers.

We are already focusing on collaboration via the Network for Learning project (N4L).

With Ultra-Fast Broadband in place, the N4L will be able to be utilised to its full potential.

N4L will be a virtual network granting all schools and students access to UFB, access to each other, and cost effective access to teaching and learning resources online, at any time, and from anywhere.

N4L will allow schools, students and teachers to work collaboratively, and share their knowledge for the benefit of the whole peer group, breaking down traditional barriers such as physical distance, or information travel time. The network aims to ensure that the latest available teaching resources will always be accessible by all of our teachers at the same time.

With the investment that is coming and the advances in technology there are a number of policy issues, challenges and opportunities that an inquiry has the opportunity to look at. The purpose of this inquiry is to consider a range of things including looking at the best structures and tools that will help our students attain the knowledge and skills that are critical to success in the modern world. The inquiry will also look at how the proliferation of smart phones, tablets and other handheld learning devices will affect the timing and delivery of learning, and how we can use mobile technology to continue our children’s education beyond the school gates. Similarly, the inquiry will examine the opportunities for collaboration between schools and peers at neighbouring schools, and further afield.

The government’s commitment to modernising our schools learning spaces and facilities promises a wealth of exciting possibilities for our education system, and most importantly for our children. (NIKKI KAYE MP Auckland Central) www.nikkikaye.co.nz

GLOBAL FAIR TRADE DAY ON SATURDAY 12 MAY TRADE AID IS CELEBRATING GLOBAL FAIR TRADE Day. They are joining with 450 organisations world wide who are all members of the World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO) network.

Trade Aid knows that being 100% committed to the people we are working for is the only way to make sure we are involved in best fair trading practice… and we know it because our partners tell us “we are doing it right.”

Only 100% fair trade organisations can become WFTO members, which requires adherence to 10 key principles. These focus on environmental, health and welfare concerns being addressed, as well as pre-financing orders, profit sharing and a commitment to long term relationships – all of which make Trade Aid a very unique not-for-profit trading organisations. We have been operating in New Zealand for the last 39 years.

“When you support us you are ensuring that the producers get the best possible outcome for themselves and their communities” says Bev Cormack, manager of the Ponsonby Trade Aid shop.

We now have new technology in store, an interactive touch screen. By scanning the barcode of your item we will link a product with its producer. “This is really exciting, the customer can journey to where the product originated from” says Bev. TRADE AID PONSONBY, 172 Ponsonby road T: 09 378 4471 www.tradeaid.org.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! SUNDAY 13 MAY BRILLIANT BOOKS FOR MOTHERS DAY BE SPOILT FOR CHOICE THIS MOTHER’S DAY AT THE LANGHAM, AUCKLAND FROM THE WOMEN’S BOOKSHOP THE NIGHT BEFORE MOTHER’S DAY Doug MacLeod with cartoons

by Judy Horacek $13 “Twas the night before Mother’s Day, scary but true, and if you’re a mother, this book is for you.” A beautiful wee hardback that will have everyone in stitches and give all mums a sense of déjà vu!

DEAR HEART: 150 NEW ZEALAND LOVE POEMS Paula Green (Ed) $37 This outstanding anthology, beautifully designed and including illustrations by leading New Zealand artists, is a delightful gift book and a superb introduction to the work of this country’s finest poets.

THE OPEN WORLD Stephanie Johnson $38 This is a brilliant historical novel by a Grey Lynn author who is one of New Zealand’s finest writers. Based on Stephanie’s great, great, great grandmother, Elizabeth Smith is a strong, independent English woman who lived here from the 1840s to the 1860s. Colonial life and our early relationships with Maori are vividly depicted; stylish and fascinating.

TREATS FROM LITTLE AND FRIDAY Kim Evans $45 In this mouth-watering cookbook, local cafe owner Kim Evans, a passionate self-taught baker, shares the recipes for her most popular buttery brioche, sticky donuts, dainty cakes, and delectable savouries. It is adapted for the home cook to master the delights of Kim’s famous and original cafe treats.

THE WISDOM OF WOMEN Candida Baker $37 This sparkling book celebrates the wisdom and nurturing support of female friendships. With great deftness Baker weaves the tapestry of her own life around the experiences of other women, who share their stories of kindness, betrayal, loss and laughter.

BLACK: The History of Black in Fashion, Society & Culture in New Zealand Curated by Doris De Pont $60 We choose to represent ourselves to the world wearing black.

Rugby jerseys, black singlets, gang patches, the ‘little black dress’ – this gorgeously illustrated book contains 10 richly fascinating essays on the importance of black in the New Zealand psyche.

MY MUM Anthony Browne $17 A fantastic cook, a brilliant juggler, a great painter, the strongest woman in the world, and she’s nice - my Mum! This is a funny, delightful little hardback from a brilliant children’s author/ illustrator. PN THE WOMEN’S BOOKSHOP, 105 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 4399 books@womensbookshop.co.nz Open 7 days from 10am and online shopping www.womensbookshop.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and at The Langham, Auckland you are spoilt for choice with ways to make your mum feel special this Mother’s Day, from an indulgent afternoon tea to a luxurious treatment at Chuan Spa. MOTHER’S DAY GRAND AFTERNOON TEA The Langham is delighted to be hosting the Mother’s Day Grand Afternoon Tea for the third year running. To support the hotel’s official charity for 2012, The Hearing House, $10 from every ticket sold will be donated to the non-profit organisation.

Invite your mum, family and friends for an afternoon of indulgence in The Great Room at The Langham, including a decadent afternoon tea with a glass of bubbly, hair and beauty makeovers, and a luxury gift bag to take home. Guest speakers include designer and entrepreneur Denise L’Estrange Corbet, founder of fashion brand, WORLD. The event runs from 1.30pm to 4pm on Sunday 13 May. Tickets are $65 per person, and $45 for children aged eight and under. Children occupying a high-chair are free.

Champagne Tiffin afternoon tea will also continue to be served at The Winery between 12pm and 4.30pm for $64.50 per person.

Bookings for afternoon tea are essential and can be made on T: 09 300 2924 or tlakl.mothersday@langhamhotels.com.

CHUAN SPA MAMA Chuan Spa is a luxurious retreat away from the outside world and is designed to create an ambience of tranquility. If this sounds like the perfect escape for your mum, delight her with a Chuan Spa Mama treatment – a blissful Mother’s Day treat that includes a Thalgo Hydra-Moisture Source facial followed by a mini manicare to leave her feeling rejuvenated and pampered. With this treatment, she will also get to take home a complimentary Thalgo Youthful hand and nail cream.

The 60 minute Hydra-Moisture Source facial is perfect for dehydrated skin and provides intense hydration to leave skin feeling fresh and radiant. A mini manicare follows, including nail and cuticle care. Chuan hand lotion is then applied to improve cuticles and nail health, followed by an application of polish.

Chuan Spa treatments include complimentary access to the tri-bathing facilities including a herbal steam room, snail shower and exhilarating ice experience. Spa guests can also enjoy the Chuan Spa Health Club which provides state-of-the-art health and fitness facilities including a heated outdoor infinity pool, jacuzzi and high -tech gymnasium.

Complimentary valet parking is also included as part of all spa treatments (subject to availability).

The Chuan Spa Mama treatment is available Monday to Friday for the month of May. The full treatment is 90 minutes long and costs $195. This treatment cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or membership entitlements or Langham Supper Club discounts.

Bookings for this treatment, or vouchers for any Chuan Spa treatment can be made on T: 09 300 2960 or tlakl.concierge@chuanspa.com.

GIFT VOUCHERS Gift vouchers for all enchanting experiences at The Langham, including Chuan Spa treatments, afternoon tea, dinner and accommodation can be purchased by phoning T: 09 300 2924 or emailing tlakl.mothersday@langhamhotels.com PN DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+

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 LOCAL NEWS HOSPICE CUPPA - A GREAT WAY TO SAY THANKS KARIN PEPPING IS A WOMAN WITH A LOT OF friends and a big life to put them in. She has four children aged five to 13 and an inclination to enjoy herself. She also has a fond spot in her heart for Mercy Hospice Auckland after her husband Keith Simpson was diagnosed with kidney cancer, aged 41. “Keith passed away three years ago now and it’s only been recently that I feel a can give something back without having a huge cloud over my head.”

Karin has thrown the first Hospice Cuppa of the season at her place, inviting seven friends over for morning tea in return for a koha. “It’s really easy. Hospice has basically done all the work and I’ve just called the girls.”

TRACY MAGAN, RACHAEL MCGREGOR and KARIN PEPPING.

“I’ll be throwing a Cuppa during appeal week,” says her friend Bridget, “and my cake tier’s bigger.” “I’ll be throwing a cocktail party,” says Rachael, another friend and volunteer at Mercy Hospice Auckland. There’s obviously a rich vein of enthusiastic rivalry among these Ponsonby women but they are quick to point out Karin’s gift for great fundraisers. Last year she organised a concert for 100 friends in memory of Keith and raised $6000 for Mercy Hospice Auckland.

“Until Keith went through hospice I had no idea their services were so all encompassing,” Karin explains. “It’s not just about the patient, it’s about friends and family too. Having a Hospice Cuppa is just a great way to say thank you. It’s not personal, it’s just productive, and social. Karin is struggling to make herself heard over the din of her morning tea. “All these girls know you come with a story or you don’t bother coming.”

If her friends want to trump this gathering, they might have to throw a cuppa in curlers and roller skates. PN

“HOSPICE CUPPA” SET TO OVERFLOW Auckland Hospices are expecting record numbers of orders for their Hospice Cuppa packs ahead of their Appeal Week May 14-20.

For the first time hospices throughout the Auckland region are joining forces to promote the simple fundraiser. “Each year the Hospice Cuppa’s proving more and more popular,” explains Verity Lee Sang, Head of Community Events at Mercy Hospice Auckland.

“People order their free Hospice Cuppa pack, which includes Dilmah Tea, Café L’Affare Coffee and recipes from MasterChef winner Nadia Lim. Then they throw a morning tea for friends or colleagues and send their donations for the Cuppa to the hospice.”

This year Auckland hospices are excited to announce that former All Black Alan Whetton will be launching the fundraiser on 3 May. Alan’s mother Ann went through Mercy Hospice Auckland in 2010 and he’s been an advocate ever since.

“He was grateful for the quality of life that the support here gave Ann,” says Verity.

“We’re just so thankful that Alan’s keen to help raise awareness for our Appeal Week. People don’t always realise that after government funding, there’s still a 10 million dollar shortfall in Auckland alone, and so we can only offer a free service thanks to the donations from our community.”

“The Cuppa is all part of our vision for ‘living every moment’,” explains Kathryn van Beek, Communications Manager at Hospice West Auckland. “We help people with a life-limiting illness get the things they need so they can live well.

The idea of getting together with friends or colleagues and just spending some time we think is a great way to help hospice.”

Carol Herbert, Fundraising Development Co-ordinator at Hospice North Shore hopes people know they can interpret the Cuppa any way they like “ We’ve had people throw cocktail parties before,” she laughs. “Of course we only provide the tea and coffee.” PN To order your HOSPICE CUPPA PACK visit www.hospicecuppa.co.nz or T: 09 376 7574.

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS 

GET IT ON! MURALS The New Zealand AIDS Foundation (NZAF) Social Marketing Programme Get it On! is doing a series of five murals, three in Auckland, one in Wellington and one in Christchurch, funded by the National Lotteries Commission.

These are being painted by professional mural artist Disruptiv, along with any volunteers who would like to take part. The first mural in Auckland has been completed.

It’s on hoardings next to a massive building site on the Richmond Road – Ponsonby Road intersection. Big thanks to Davies Investments for generously allowing us to use this space. Once construction is complete at the site and the hoarding needs to come down, the mural is designed to be able to be moved and re-erected at a new site.

A second Auckland mural will be completed this weekend and will be located behind URGE Bar. This one will also feature artwork from renowned local graphic artist Don Chooi. And again, thanks to URGE and the Samson Corporation for allowing us to use this wall. There will be a barbeque on Sunday from midday for those who are picking up a brush / can, or if you just want to come down and take a look.

We are still looking for wall space in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland, so if you have a wall which may be suitable, or know someone who might, please let us know.

WHERE: Behind URGE Bar 490 Karangahape Road, Newton PN

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LOCAL NEWS: DEIRDRE ROELANTS

 TEN MINUTES WITH GEOFF HOUTMAN Geoff Houtman is an Actor, Writer and community-minded Grey Lynn local... he cares passionately about preserving our local architecture and is keen to see trams gracing the streets of Ponsonby.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR LIFE? I was born in the Great Depression, the one that hung on in Hamilton until the 80s. So I left for the bright lights of Australia, lost a leg in Bondi and came home to seek my fortune. Many years later the leg was found and returned, but sadly, not the fortune.

OUT THERE NORTH THE TRAVELLIN’ BOYS HAVE BEEN AT IT AGAIN. CHRIS MORTON AND HIS BAND of bros have repeated the success of “Out There South” which was published back in 2010. They recorded a four-wheel adventure drive through the South Island on camera and turned it into a book. Two years later they undertook a similar venture through the North Island and “Out There North” was launched at the Giltrap Prestige showroom on 19 April this year. Chris has deep respect for the Toyota Prada vehicles the team took round the South Island, but this time they took three Volkswagon Amaroks and, after some initial misgivings, the new kid on the block has won his whole hearted endorsement. Next thing expect to see blonde yummy mummies ferrying their offspring around in these big black behemoths.

Everyone who took part in the first adventure were in like Flynn. Tony Bridge is a professional photographer and writer of high repute. Steve Beston has been running four-wheel drive tours all over the South Island for eighteen years. Once again Pat Costello organised accommodation, food and finances. John McCallum is another photographer who is keen on off-road driving. Tony Davis rents Prados to the tourist market and owns all the camping equipment required. When ex-high country farmer, Rod Buik heard about the repeat adventure, no way was he going to miss out. And of course there’s Chris who has won a string of awards for his images of landscapes and has been the driving force behind the Out There idea.

The launch was a very convivial affair. The scent of money permeates the Giltrap showroom with its range of European cars at eye watering prices. The guests may not have intended to buy, but looking and more often than not, just longing, can be quite fun. The original team of eight were there in full force mixing and mingling before lining up together for the official launching of the book. Chris and Tony Bridge each spoke in turn of the motivation they all felt to get out there and look at our greatest asset.

In Chris’s words, “We are all in awe of what we have and the more it’s exposed, the more it will be appreciated and raise a collective consciousness of how precious it is”.

They also described misadventures that happened along the way and the ragging that ensued.The images in the book are absolutely spectacular, enhanced up by Tony’s superlative narration.

To get a taste of the trip go to http://vimeo.com/38464125 and be amazed at however difficult the terrain, the Volkswagen Amarok can handle it with ease. The South Island has always been cited as the jewel in New Zealand’s crown with its majestic mountains, lakes and rivers but the North Island has a more subtle appeal. For instance, the sands of the hauntingly beautiful Hokianga are home to the remains of five hundred Chinese gold miners that were being returned on the SS Ventnor for burial in their homeland.

The ship sank and the bones washed up on Mitimiti Beach. This area is considered to be one of the oldest settlements for Maori and is redolent with history. ‘Out There South’ has images of places inaccessible to most people. Out There North images have a spirituality that is to do with people as well as the landscape.

“Out There North” was published by Out There Media and will be available in book shops early June. It pokes a thumb at e-books because no kindle could incite the emotional response readers will have to this beautifully produced book they will want to return to again and again. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

WHY DO YOU THINK TRAMS WOULD WORK ON THE STREETS OF PONSONBY? Auckland was built on trams, literally, the routes where the original tram lines were still have the nice wide roads and little collections of shops where the Trams stopped.

Bringing the trams back to Ponsonby Road specifically would help the local businesses (there used to be four bus routes from Queen Street to Ponsonby Road, now there are none) as well as help with Auckland’s air pollution, remember Trams don’t blow any smoke, ever. Ponsonby Road would also be a great place to start to make some use of the otherwise pointless Wynyard Tram loop, connecting this to Victoria Park, Ponsonby Road, K Road and Queen Street would make it actually useful.

FAVOURITE BAR? That would have to be Golden Dawn on Richmond Road; it’s also my closest so that’s another plus. A lot of the time we can hear the music drifting over the back fences, and if it sounds good it’s easy enough to get there. In about 30 seconds...

FAVOURITE CAFE? There are so many good cafes on the strip and round the ‘Hood’ but I can’t go past Conch on Ponsonby Road. Coffees are great, company is always interesting, and like all good places - if you sit there for a couple of hours everyone walks past eventually.

Apparently they sell records and clothes and things there too but I’ve never ventured that far down the back.

FAVOURITE SUPERMARKET? New World Victoria Park, they’re the only one that always has what I want, and it’s a nice wander through Freemans Bay to get there.

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? Of the Past? Ivans, where Chapel now stands. Ivan still walks past every day and waves hello. Of the present? Never had a bad experience at Prego, and I’ve been going there 20 years, that’s got to say something. Sunday Painters is also worth a look, the food is something special and the ambience is pretty much unequalled.

FAVOURITE STORE? Nightline Dairy on Ponsonby Road. They’ve been there as long as I can remember and always give great service. If only they’d sell Dr Pepper again.

FAVOURITE LOCAL BEACH? Sentinel, yes, there are tidal issues, but a wee wander around or through the streets will take you to yet another handy, inner city beach. My favourite beach of the future will be the Cox’s Bay Beach, that will be a real ripper - but we’re a long way from that yet.

ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE SEEN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

THE LONG & WINDING

THE FASHIONABLE RICHMOND ROAD

RICHMOND ROAD

VANILLA INK

There are a total of seven fashion retailers located along the long and winding Richmond Road.

428 Richmond

Vanilla Ink

Labels include: Crane Brothers, Gubb & Mackie

Labels include: Vanilla Ink,

Manager Mat Rew carries Crane Brothers ends of lines, and current season Gubb & Mackie stock as well as occasional tasteful bits and bobs. (This is the only place I buy my belts! - Publisher Martin) 428 Richmond Road T: 09 378 8565

Black Box Labels include: Bassike, Beau Coops, Black Box, Black Noise White Rain, Brixton, Cheap Monday, Chronicles of Never, Commoners Alike, DL & Co, Dr Denim, Dr Martin, Estelle Deve, Gourmet, Gram, Herschel, Ksubi, Lela Jacobs, Libertine Libertine, Lonely Hearts, Mors, Moscot, Nike, One Teaspoon, Opening Ceremony, Shakuhachi, Something Else, Stolen Girlfriends Club, Therese Rawsthorne, TR Ensemble, Triumph & Disaster, Vanishing Elephant, Vanishing Elephant X Stussy, Vans.

Metallicus, Mesop, B.yu, Betty Basics Like its designer Susan Duckworth, Vanilla Ink is warm and characterfilled. “Intelligent and well-crafted garments,” often playful and offering plenty of colour, with constant new drops of stock to keep things interesting.

438 Richmond Road T: 09 376 1913 www.vanillaink.co.nz

Black Box Boutique stocks expertly edited clothing and accessories plus some sweet little extras such as skull candles from D L & Co and reading material from the likes of Monster Children. “From dark and delicious distressed denim and menswear to dresses, shirts and shoes with a stylish yet moody aesthetic.”

35B Surrey Crescent, T: 09 378 0073 www.blackboxboutique.com

Dalston Labels include: Dalston, Kikeko Kids, Charmaine Reveley, Brady, Chalky Digits, Kowtow, Vintage Heaven, emilyandfin (London), Caro Boutique (London), Toshi (Australia), hamb (Australia), Two Black Cats, Salvage, Sassy Rouge Jules and Monique have been friends since leaving school. Their love of clothes had brought them together often – working together at Chlorofile on Ponsonby Road, selling Jules’ label J Clark in London and now at their own shop Dalston in Auckland.

Dalston designs are about classic feminine styling that are easy to wear and make you look and feel good. Our own collections use fabrics sourced from around the world and are full of prints and colour. Quality is very important to us and the Dalston range is made locally in New Zealand.

CRANE BROTHERS

481 Richmond Road T: 09 378 0578 www.dalston.co.nz

Jetset Bohemian Labels include: JetsetBohemian, Stella Forest, Diabless, Zadig and Voltaire, Antik Batik, Zara, Top Shop and French Connection, Zoe and Morgan Jetsetbohemian is a boutique store nestled in Grey Lynn, with a treasure trove of old and new for the shopper who likes to hunt for one-off finds.

413 Richmond Road, T: 09 378 9100

Moa Labels include: Juno, Pluto, Vesta 100% Aotearoa-made clothing and jewellery. Over more than twenty years this collective has evolved from a small creative outlet into an established designer boutique. Pretty garments, classic styles, elegant designs, luscious fabrics, strong statements.

413 Richmond Road, T: 09 378 8484 www.moa-unlimited.co.nz

Trelise Cooper Outlet Labels include: Trelise Cooper, Cooper, Coop CHECK The Trelise Cooper Outlet store is always well stocked, and the label mix varies. As well as samples, seconds and past seasons’ stock, it’s worth checking back from time to time for one-off runway accessories and items like custom-made French-milled soap.

100 Richmond Road T: 09 360 9578 www.trelisecooper.com The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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THE ‘MISS JONES’ INTERVIEW

NOURISHING OUR LIVES WITH CARE SINCE OPENING RIPE IN 2003, ANGE REDFERN HAS MADE A PRETTY BIG impression on Richmond Road. She’s always loved to cook and growing up in England, she spent her childhood with her mother in the kitchen. It was a natural progression to a Hotel Management course in Bournemouth where she was picked to do work experience at The Savoy in London. Realising she was more a morning person, she went to work at Tricia Guild’s Designers Guild doing contract catering and this is where she fell in love with fabric, design, layout and making simple things look really nice.

At both places she learnt about quality, discipline and standards.

About four years later Ripe had become so popular it was time to move to a bigger space and the current location came up for rent at just the right time. “By then I could afford to borrow money and design a store with a great kitchen. We changed the small store’s name to Sliced and two of the girls working for me were really into fresh juices and the idea of creating your own sandwich so they set it up for me. Eventually my good friend Jane bought it off me and it has since switched owners and is now being well run by Barbara and Craig.”

In the meantime, Ripe continued to grow and customers kept asking for recipes so Ange asked everyone who worked with her to contribute their favourite recipes and the Ripe Recipes cookbook was published last year. “The book has been really successful and now I’m thinking of our next cookbook. I’m going to have a competition where our customers can enter the recipes they want to share” says Ange.

There are other interesting projects on the go like the phone app which holds customers coffee loyalty cards and soon you will be able to download Ripe recipes from it. She now has a delivery van for corporate catering and cake delivery. Out the back of the shop are sixteen hungry worm farms producing fertiliser juice which is sold for a gold coin and then donated to dogs for the blind. She has a project she calls Market Garden where you can swap your extra garden produce for a free coffee. And the latest project is the new baby which will arrive in September.

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

photography: Michael McClintock

Travelling to New Zealand, she worked at Pasta Italia learning the art of making fresh pasta and at Zarbo’s in Newmarket. By this time, Ange loved it here and started looking around for somewhere to open her own place. In 2003, there was a burger bar on Richmond Road that was up for sale and, Ange says, “I loved the space, the doors opened up at the front and I was away, friends helped me open it with painting and logos, I had heaps of support. I enjoyed deli food and having the freedom to make what you feel like making without being chained to a stove. At the time it was difficult to be able to grab something nice to eat, we were having fun, playing music, laughing, everybody feeling welcome and with good quality food and people.”

“I now have time to do all these things because there are awesome people working here. Pip who runs the kitchen, Lynn my baker who has been with me since day one and Ginny and Lisa my managers are all great people and it’s the best feeling in the world to be able to let go and allow them to run it so I can work on my business to make it more successful” says Ange.

“There are lots of regulars – hundreds from the neighbourhood, from businesses and now with the cookbook, people come in from all over the country. We acknowledge the little things and care about them. I treat others how I treat myself and I’m happy with what I‘ve got. I’ve never felt like I’m going to work because it’s always been so much fun to be here and that sure is a great way to live your life. I feel lucky.”

(REBECCA JONES) PN RIPE DELICATESSEN, 172 Richmond Road T: 09 360 6159 www.ripedeli.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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TRACY RUTHERFURD UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Tracy Rutherfurd has owned Romantique Home for nine years.

She has two outlets, one on Richmond Road and a showroom in Glenfield, from where she also wholesales to 120 retailers around New Zealand.

WHERE DO YOU LIVE? I live on the North Shore with my partner Nic Holland - he is also my partner in Romantique. My daughter Emma is 28 and cooks for the Federal Diner in Wanaka – fabulous! Our adorable Airdale terrier Max is our number two child.

HOW DO YOU KEEP FIT? Walking Max, Ballroom / Latin dancing and lifting the many pieces of furniture in Romantique.

WHERE DO YOU SPEND YOUR HOLIDAYS? In Hawkes Bay and in France.

YOUR BEST FRIEND WOULD SAY OF YOU...

‘She’s a workaholic.’

YOUR MOTHER WOULD SAY OF YOU... ’She’s a workaholic.’

WHAT ARE YOUR VIRTUES? I am positive, have a love of life and I’m independent.

WHAT ARE YOUR VICES? Coffee, red wine, and old movies.

WHAT’S YOUR SECRET PASSION? Buying a house in France - I am working on it.

WHAT’S YOUR DESERT ISLAND DISTRACTION? ‘Shantaram’, a huge book and a great read.

WHAT WERE YOU GOING TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? A ballerina.

HOW DID YOU COME TO OWN ROMANTIQUE? I love vintage and one-off pieces...I bought too much for my home, so to keep satisfying my passion I had to open a shop.

IF YOU DIDN’T OWN ROMANTIQUE...

I would have a small house in France for guests, with beautiful furniture!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PONSONBY CAFE? Queenies.

FAVOURITE PONSONBY RESTAURANT? Sunday Painters.

YOUR FAVOURITE PONSONBY FASHION LABEL? Trelise Cooper.

WHAT WAS YOUR STANDOUT SALE OF THE LAST 12 MONTHS? Flying a huge chest of drawers to Hong Kong.

ONE THING YOU HAVE LEARNED ABOUT LIFE IS? Life is what happens when you have made other plans!

YOUR ADVICE TO PONSONBY PEOPLE BUYING BEAUTIFUL THINGS FOR THEIR HOME? Buy things that will last for a long time and are not just a gimmick - things with character, to cherish forever. PN ROMANTIQUE, 96 Richmond Road T: 09 360 9669 www.romantique.co.nz

ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE SEEN

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

THE LONG & WINDING

RICHMOND ROAD

JOURNEY BACK TO HEALTH WITH HARVEST NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE HARVEST NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE IS A HEALTH PRACTICE THAT HAS BEEN established since 1994. They pride themselves on being the clinic of experienced practitioners which people have come to know and trust in the Grey Lynn area.

The Harvest Natural Health care team is comprised of an experienced group of multidisciplinary practitioners, working together as a team to provide the best possible approach to total health.

Their health professionals include: Naturopaths, Angela Haldane aka ‘Natural Ange’ and Sharron White; Medical Herbalist, Phil Rasmussen; Osteopath, Ryan Young; Counsellor, Andy McCormack; Acupuncturist, Ada Sobieszczuk; Massage Therapists, Miwa Machida and Ross Thomson; Reflexologist and vibrational healer Ineke Bokkerink Hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner, Camille Hartley.

All their practitioners practice ‘evidenced based medicine’, and keep up to date with the most recent research in their field, in order to provide the very best natural health care available.

They are about patient care, and providing the very best service to you. Ongoing support is provided to ensure that your journey back to health is a positive experience - in the short term and the long term.

Their practitioners treat a wide range of conditions – both acute and chronic. Where necessary, they may need to refer you for a diagnostic workup - X rays, scans or blood tests or medical attention if it is beyond the realm of natural therapies. Their Osteopath, counsellor and acupuncturist are ACC registered. The clinic is open six days a week so for advice on which therapy would best suit your requirement, please call their office.

HARVEST NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE, 407a Richmond Road (upstairs above Harvest Foods) T: 09 376 0174 www.harvestnaturalhealth.co.nz

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THE LONG & WINDING

RICHMOND ROAD

BEAUTIFUL RICHMOND ROAD Richmond Road offers a plethora of businesses who aim to keep you well and make you beautiful...

ACAJOU BEAUTY THERAPY Tania Sharp and her team offer “natural therapies and body care...quality services and products in a safe, friendly environment.”

37 Richmond Road T: 09 378 4180 www.acajou.co.nz

acupuncture), Hands On massage therapy, Sharon White (naturopath with a specialty in natural fertililty), Ineke Bökkerink (vibrational wellness practitioner), Russ Thomson (massage therapist).

407A Richmond Road, T: 09 376 0174 www.harvestnaturalhealth.co.nz RICHMOND VILLA HOUSES: THE ALLERGY CLINIC Offers an alternative way of testing sensitivities and intolerances T: 09 361 3295 www.theallergyclinic.co.nz MIND BODY INSTITUTE Use a unique combination of diverse healing techniques to infuse a greater understanding of the emotional, spiritual and physical self.

T: 0273 866 587 0800MINDBODY 412 Richmond Road, www.mindbodyinstitute.co.nz www.arohahealing.co.nz

SEVEN SENSES CENTRE Home to: ANA-MED ACUPUNCTURE T: 027 310 7014 BACK FOR GOOD CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS T: 0800 222 544 BEAUTY ROOM T: 09 378 9160 PODS PODIATRY (Fiona takes care of Ponsonby News’ feet!)

T: 09 360 6193 RE:BALANCE T: 021 488 816 WE TREAT MASSAGE T: 0210 230 7287 ZERO LIMITS MIND COACHING 021 650 883 142 Richmond Road

SEONAID LYONS HEMA FACIALIST Seonaid Lyons delivers a stimulating yet relaxing combination of facial acupressure, massage and lymphatic drainage techniques using Margaret Hema’s wonderful treatment oils.

412 Richmond Road, T: 021 369 642

PEAK PILATES Group mat and “reformer” machine classes. Physiotherapy and sports massage services are also available.

274 Richmond Road, T: (09) 376 8343 www.peakpilatesgroup.co.nz

GARETH & CO Well respected Grey Lynn ‘local’ with high street-yet-friendly attitude.

1a Francis Street T: 09 378 0031 www.garethandco.co.nz

photography: Fred Rood, Elite Image

NAILS ON RICHMOND Nails, beauty and tanning.

2/386 Richmond Road T: 09 360 1950 www.nailsonrichmond.co.nz

WELLPARK New Zealand’s largest natural therapy training institute that offers courses in naturopathy, massage, aromatherapy, herbal medicine and more.

6 Francis Street, Grey Lynn T: 09 360 0560 www.wellpark.co.nz CERISE MAKEUP AND LASH BAR A dedicated eyelash extension and makeup salon.

3/386 RICHMOND ROAD T: 09 361 6336 SH’OOSH HAIRDRESSING Sh’oosh use organic hair products free from all chemicals including parabens and ammonia.

7/386 Richmond Road T: 09 376 6534 www.shoosh.co.nz MJ’S MJ’s is a Medi Spa specialising in advanced skin care technology and non-invasive skin therapy, offering affordable, non-surgical skin care treatments. MJ’s Skin Care also offers a wonderful selection of Derrmalogica facials, eyebrow shaping and tinting, eyelash tinting, spa manicure and pedicures, waxing treatments, RF non-surgical face and eyes lift treatments and PDT Acne treatment.

8/386 Richmond Road T: 09 376 7333 AMICA BOUTIQUE HAIR SPECIALISTS Highly experienced Kirsten Lloyd is senior stylist. Professional service, international quality and personalised pampering including grooming and makeup as well as hair.

16/386 Richmond Road, T: 09 376 8266 www.amicaboutique.co.nz

SBF HAIRDRESSING 444 Richmond Road, T: 09 376 6476 RICHMOND ROAD MEDICAL CENTRE Three of the Ponsonby News publishing team go to Richmond Road Medical Centre, and we felt it deserved special mention for being an outstanding clinic.

452 Richmond Road T: 09 376 5621.

LUXE AND DUKE 483 T: 09 360 1477 High quality hairdressing in a beautiful new salon.

483 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 1477 www.luxeandduke.co.nz

WHY I LOVE RICHMOND ROAD Teri Parat (Trelise Cooper Outlet)

HARVEST NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE 407A T: 09 376 0174 Home of the celebrated ‘Natural Ange’ (Angela Haldane, naturopath), Phil Rasmussen (medical herbalist), Ryan Young (osteopath), Andy McCormack (counsellor), Camille Hartley (NLP and hypnotherapy), Ada Sobieszczuk (Chinese medicine and

I live in Westmere, and Richmond Road is so accessible.

My working week is spent between three of Trelise Coopers stores, one of which is located on Richmond Road. I love Richmond Road’s soul and community spirit. There are some great businesses in the area...Harvest Wholefoods is a fantastic health food centre, and also the bookshop Dear Reader, and Romantique next door to Trelise Cooper. It’s the little businesses like that, which make Richmond Road an interesting, quirky part of Auckland.

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THE LONG & WINDING

RICHMOND ROAD

IT’S ALL ABOUT STYLE SUSAN DUCKWORTH OF VANILLA INK SAYS, “I’VE BEEN THINKING ABOUT Fashion Vs Style a lot lately, it may be odd for a designer but I see ‘fashion’ as sometimes shallow and quite cynical in terms of the judgment of others and the waste (planned obsolescence). Personal style however I value highly, it’s the most accessible form of self-expression, it’s almost like dress-ups for adults and it can be so much fun.”

At Vanilla Ink they spend huge amounts of time styling women in their stores,

thinking about achieving different looks, what suits, what the possibilities are and pushing boundaries to create new looks. It’s free (unless you buy something) (which you don’t have to) (honestly) (but you probably will), it’s fun and it can be incredibly liberating.

VANILLA INK, 438 Richmond Road T: 09 376 1913 www.vanillaink.co.nz

STORAGE KING FOR SHORT OR LONG TERM STORAGE IN RECENT MONTHS, THE MEDIA HAVE REPORTED ON GREY LYNN’S INCREASING HOUSE PRICES AND THE HUGE demand for rental properties and Storage King Grey Lynn has seen the signs of the housing shortage in the area first hand. They have customers who have recently sold their properties but are now struggling to re-buy in the same area, due to the lack of listings.

Their goods are in storage while they find a new property. They also have many storers who are searching for rentals or flats, but are struggling to find suitable accommodation as there appears to be fewer listing and more demand for the listings.

Storage King Grey Lynn continues to be a popular option for people while they sell their homes. ‘De-cluttering’ their house for open homes can often lead to a quicker sale or possibly getting a higher price. Storage King Grey Lynn sell a wide range of packaging materials, from boxes to protective covers and bubble wrap. Archive boxes are currently on special $3.00 each or 10 for $25.00.

This New Zealand owned business has been in operation for over 24 years, and has helped thousands of locals who have needed short or long term storage.

If you need to store just a single item or a whole house lot, call for a quote or visit them at their Richmond Road office - open seven days a week. PN STORAGE KING GREY LYNN, 300 Richmond Road T: 09 360 2015 www.storageking.co.nz

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 LOCAL NEWS KEEPING PONSONBY ROAD AND SURROUNDING AREAS UNIQUE AND DYNAMIC PONSONBY IS UNIQUE AND DYNAMIC BY VIRTUE OF THE ECLECTIC MIX OF shops and businesses trading along Ponsonby Road and surrounding areas. Ponsonby Road has a high percentage of small owner operated businesses, instead of being dominated by large chain format businesses and shops. These owner operator small businesses contribute to making Ponsonby Road popular and bringing people to the area for dining, shopping and entertainment.

The owners of commercial premises are, generally speaking, entitled to seek a rent review every 2 years during the lease term. Such rent review would seek to have the tenant pay a market rent for the premises. One of the factors affecting market rent is the supply and demand for premises of that type. In short, if there is a high demand for such location or type of premises then this would substantially contribute to a rent increase being justified in bringing the rent for the premises up to what could be considered the market rent. The downside with such market rent reviews is that it does not take into consideration the profitability of the business which occupies the premises.

It can be said that “on paper” an increased rental may be justified, but sadly reality could be far removed.

It would be of benefit to both the landlords and the tenants to work towards an arrangement which works better for both parties. If landlords realised that by being pragmatic about the rental being asked for business premises, taking into consideration tenant affordability then there would be a glimmer of hope in retaining the essence of what Ponsonby Road is today. Bliss Café closed down recently and there was a sign in the window. The sign advised that the rental was to increase by $2,000.00 per month and that therefore another good café was lost. Doing the figures, if the café were to sell coffee for $3.50 per cup they would have to sell an extra 571 coffees a month to earn an extra $2,000.00. The 571 coffees would earn them $2,000.00 but then on top of this they would still have to pay for the coffee, sugar, milk and wages.

photography: Gwynne Davenport

The Ponsonby Road Business Association and business owners work tirelessly towards keeping Ponsonby Road popular and dynamic. The business owners generally know each other and all aim for the common goal of growing their small business and enticing people to come to Ponsonby. The mix of commercial tenancies in Ponsonby Road is responsible for creating the buzz of what is Ponsonby Road. Unlike a mall arrangement there is not a central organization controlling or ensuring that the current style of tenant mix remains in Ponsonby Road.

founder of WORLD has been a long term tenant of Andy Davies and explained, “we’ve had a store at 175 Ponsonby Road for almost two decades. Andy Davies has been the most wonderful landlord, he has a kind heart and is a good listener. We have an excellent relationship with him as he seems to figure that if his tenants are ‘healthy’, it makes his job that much easier.”

The addition of Ipanema Food and Art Society at the Great North Road end of Ponsonby road is to be watched with interest. They specialise in fine Brazilian cuisine from many of the 27 states that make up Brazil. They have an extensive wine list, with most of the wines being available by the glass. There is also parking across the road next to the Mobil service station. They have art on display and for sale throughout the premises, be that in the restaurant, bar, live music venue or private function rooms. As a new business along Ponsonby Road being unique and adding to the diversity of Ponsonby Road, the owner operators welcome everyone to pop in and have a drink or a meal and enjoy the hospitality.

RICO HORSLEY is a partner of METROLAW, Ponsonby www.metrolaw.co.nz

Sadly on a too often basis landlords appear to be more focused on maximising the rental income from commercial premises on Ponsonby Road instead of working with tenants in order to reach a compromise that is acceptable to both the tenant and landlord. If landlords remain focused on maximising rental income, without consideration of the affordability for tenants then the essence of Ponsonby Road will continue to be threatened. Over time the tenant mix in Ponsonby Road will change as small owner operators are effectively pushed out and replaced by national and international chain operators who may be more able to afford the increased rentals sought by the landlords.

The sad fact of this happening is that Ponsonby Road would then lose its uniqueness and dynamism and become more and more similar to any major mall in New Zealand, with the same mall tenants having shops and premises along Ponsonby Road.

It would be a sad loss for Auckland if the uniqueness and diversity of the tenants in Ponsonby Road and surrounding areas such as Grey Lynn and KRoad was lost in the chase for ever increasing rental incomes for the landlords. The consequence is that we get closer to the day that the small business operators are effectively pushed out resulting in Ponsonby Road and surrounding areas becoming victims of their own success.

The Ponsonby Road business association could consider engaging with a consultant to undertake an extensive analysis of the mix of tenants in Ponsonby Road and surrounding areas. It could be most beneficial if such a review was to identify the types of tenants that are required in order to keep Ponsonby Road unique and dynamic. Such a list could be published and landlords and potential tenants would have informed knowledge of the tenancy mix that is needed for Ponsonby Road and surrounding areas.

It is refreshing to see new and interesting additions to the Ponsonby Road tenancy mix. There are two interesting new additions to the Ponsonby Road experience being Ponsonby Central and Ipanema Food and Art Society.

The new development by Andy Davies called Ponsonby Central is exciting in that it combines fresh produce, stores and pop up shops. The pop up shops are tailored to benefit especially retailers who wish to have a presence along Ponsonby Road, without the need for a long term lease and expensive fit out of the premises. This development is expected to recapture the uniqueness and dynamism of Ponsonby Road. It is great to see that new retailers would have a space where they could use the pop up shop concept to try out their retail store idea, and “give it a go” before committing to a long term lease along Ponsonby Road. The tenant mix for the pop up shops would be changing over time and therefore remain fresh and interesting for shoppers. Francis Hooper, co-

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RICHMOND ROAD

INTRODUCING THE OBJECT ROOM – SURREY CRESCENT LUKE MCCARTHY AND TIMOND CHU OPENED THEIR DESIGN STORE THE Object Room in the new group of shops on the corner of Surrey Crescent and Richmond Road, in September 2011. Luke had a background in retail management (Freedom Furniture), retail fitouts (mei+picchi) and real estate, while Timond had held customer service and operations roles at Air New Zealand and Auckland Airport.

Ponsonby News asked them to share their business’ story...

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE THIS BUSINESS? A genuine interest and passion for the type of product that we offer. Our first suppliers were sourced from things we have personally discovered and enjoyed during our travels overseas.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS SITE, AND THE GREATER PONSONBY AREA? We chose the site as we really wanted to be in Grey Lynn and loved the opportunity of a brand new, contemporary space that we could simply move into and get started. We love the Greater Ponsonby area, and we could see potential for growth with more and more people in the area having an interest in design items and home interiors.

WHAT IS THE OBJECT ROOM’S POINT OF DIFFERENCE? Unique products that aren’t found anywhere else in Auckland, nor New Zealand! The majority of our products are exclusive to us - we import most of them direct from suppliers all over the world. Our business is owned and run by us so there is a truly genuine interest (and sometimes a story) behind everything that we sell.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PRODUCT RANGE? We offer design/decorative items for the home, like ceramic vases, candle holders, and porcelain cups. Then there are items for daily use such as notebooks, leather folios, presentation books, laptop bags, handbags, and wallets. Concrete rings (fashion rings) are a recent arrival and have had great interest.

We also have a full area dedicated to one of our biggest brands, an aromatic range called Karmakamet, from Bangkok - glass jar candles, room diffusers, wax melts, room sprays, perfume bags and so on. This is the range in our store that really does have customers returning on a regular basis for more.

photography: Michael McClintock

Some of our recent additions have been very limited, smaller shipments from unique design companies (such as FARM or GILLES CAFFIER, who make very limited numbers of some of their pieces). We appreciate that we are a ‘local’ and therefore we aim to keep things fresh and interesting for our regular customers.

Note: The Object Room tells Ponsonby News that a newly designed, full website with online shopping is on its way very soon! In the meantime, ‘like’ their Facebook page to see photos and info on new product arrivals etc: www.facebook.com/theobjectroom.

THE OBJECT ROOM, Corner Surrey Crescent and Richmond Road, T: 09 889 0767

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FASHION + STYLE THOUGHTFUL MOTHERS DAY GIFTS Wouldn’t you like to get your Mum something she would REALLY like, this Mother’s Day? Ponsonby News reckons you won’t miss with any of these gift picks...

TAYLOR BOUTIQUE ‘EYE OF THE WORLD’ BELT Designed in London, these gorgeous belts are an über-stylish way to add colour to Mum’s outfit. RRP $467.

TAYLOR BOUTIQUE, 20 Jervois Road T: 09 376 6544 www.taylorboutique.co.nz KAREN MURRELL LIPSTICKS (NEW COLOURS) A new lipstick will give Mum a little luxury, and a fashion update to boot. Karen Murrell’s shades are rich in natural high pigment, ensuring each lipstick has intense colour, is long wearing, and does not feather on your mum’s gorgeous smile. We love reddish orange 08 Coral Dawn - ‘the new red.’ RRP $29.95 Visit www.karenmurrell.com for stockists or call toll free 0508 600 400.

HAVAIANAS IPAD CASE This is from Havaianas’ Mothers’ Day accessories collection - all in limited edition colours and only sold at their MacKelvie Street showroom. What’s more, purchase any Mothers’ Day pressie from the Havaianas showroom and get free gift wrapping and a Havaianas bag valued at $20.00, while stocks last. RRP $ 28.

THE HAVAIANAS SHOWROOM, 28 MacKelvie Street, T: 09 361 2416 www.havaianasnz.com LULULEMON ATHLETICA NAMASTE YOGA TOTE Mum can sling this yoga mat tote over her shoulders en route to class and feel like a modern-day Robin Hood - only instead of arrows, she’ll be shooting wide smiles and positive energy to all the people she meets. RRP $45 LULULEMON ATHLETICA, 239 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 9342 www.lululemon.com LIAM COURT SHOE This tangerine suede court will update virtually anything in Mum’s wardrobe. Note the newly back-on-trend pointed toe!

RRP $299. (JULIE ROULSTON) LIAM AT RUBY, 95 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 8674 www.rubynz.com KAGI JEWELLERY ‘MUM & ME’ GIFT SET (SEE P6) From Kagi’s latest collection, ‘Enchanted’ – treat Mum (and yourself) with a stunning Violet Loyal pendant and chain necklace this Mother’s Day. Includes 1 Kagi Loyal medium pendant on mini links, and 1 Loyal mini on mini links. RRP $346. www.kagijewllery.com

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photography: Julie Roulston on a SONY NEX

FASHION + STYLE

STOLEN GIRLFRIENDS CLUB SPRING/SUMMER LAUNCH Stolen Girlfriends Club launched their spring / summer 2012/13 collection in an intimate media showing at their new premises on the corner of MacKelvie Street and Crummer Road. The excellent “Me and Mrs Bones” sees skulls and bones pop up in a myriad of incarnations. Look forward to a nod to 80s excess, thigh-high and floor-scraping hemlines, knitwear and uber-luxe suede pants and tasselled shirts.

1. Jae Mills, Marc Moore and Dan Gosling post show; 2. Model in SGC dress; 3. Fashion press at the event.

ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A FASHIONABLE PAGE TO BE SEEN!

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STYLE & GRACE STORE OPENING 1. Barbara, Rita Reed, Katie Fisher and Amanda Fisher; 2. Sarah English, Maria Pomirska, Dee Johnston, Jamie Warwick and Joanne Chaplow The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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‘MAAIKE + CO’ STORE OPENING ST KEVIN’S ARCADE, 28 MARCH 1. Fraser Jamieson and Jess Moore; 2. Richard Bryant, Aleisha Williams and Bernice Mene; 3. Abby von Schreven and Emilie Pullar.

Murray Bevan and Anna-Lise Sharma as the doors opened at Tuesday 24 April’s #Bluesky show. 250 guests enjoyed S/S 12/13 shows from Alexandra Owen, SALASAI and Juliette Hogan, and the event was also a celebration of Murray’s Showroom 22’s 10 year anniversary.

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photography: Aperture 4 Photography, Ponsonby Business Association

KATE COVENY, Marketing Manager of JERRY CLAYTON BMW, and Dealer Principal STEVE HILSON.

A PONSONBY NIGHT OF FASHION Over 200 guests enjoyed a fabulous night of fashion at Longroom on 27 March.

The event was hosted by the Ponsonby Business Association and sponsored by Jerry Clayton BMW. Over $12,000 was raised for Mercy Hospice and, based on its success, this event is planned to become an annual fixture along the Ponsonby Strip. Look forward to seeing you at the next one! www.iloveponsonby.co.nz www.jcbmw.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LIKE TO WIN A "VERY PONSONBY" WARDROBE?

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photography: Jo Barrett

 LOCAL NEWS

GREY LYNN ANZAC DAY PARADE – 25 APRIL Ponsonby and Grey Lynn locals turned out in big numbers again this year in support of the ANZAC Day parade.

Lead by a lone piper, MOTAT’s World War II Historical Re-enactment Society, son’s of WWII veterans along with representatives and veterans from other wars marched in the parade.

It commenced at 9.30am leaving from Castle Street, along Richmond Road through the West Lynn shops and ended in Frances Street outside the GREY LYNN RSC Clubrooms where a memorial service lead by the Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua was held. PN GREY LYNN RETURNED SERVICES CLUB - 1 Frances Street T: 09 376 2909 www.greylynnrsc.org.nz

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FASHION FUSION AT SALE ST 29 MARCH – VICTORIA PARK Fashion and fine food combined on a stunning early Autumn day when Sale St invited local labels Augustine, Celine Rita and Egoist to show highlights from their Winter 12 collections over lunch prepared by Sale St Executive Chef Nick Honeyman.

Welcomed with a Chambord cocktail, guests enjoyed three courses inspired by the various designers: popcorn scallops (Augustine), lamb (Egoist) and an extraordinary coconut and white chocolate dessert (Celine Rita). Lulu Wilcox styled the fashion, Evelyn Ebrey produced this show, hair was by Servilles and makeup by Phoenix.

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MARVEL PARTY FOR MISTER MENSWEAR FRIDAY 13 APRIL – PONSONBY

The next Fashion Fusion event is planned for late Spring 2012.

The team at Marvel held a small party to launch the new Mister season... guests enjoyed a glass of wine, some food and even a roasted chestnut or two!

1. Models at Fashion Fusion; ; 2. Lulu Wilcox and Natasha Stewart; 3. Claire Hahn; 3. Abby von Schreven and Emilie Pullar; 4. Nicky Clarke, Tom Smith, Rich Henry; 5. Nicky Gadsdon, Sandy Piggin and Nicky Tong; 6. Celine Chapman and her Dad.

7. Mickey Lin (Mister Menswear) Sam Gray (Marvel) and Ra Thomson (Mister Menswear); 8. Don Hsieh and Stephyn St James; 9. Colin Mathura Jaffrey and Kylie Cooke (stylist to the stars including NZ’s Next Top Model).

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ANGELA LASSIG: LETTERS FROM MAUDIE The monthly jottings of a free-spirited Ponsonby dressmaker of the 1920s, as imagined by Angela Lassig.

VERMONT STREET, PONSONBY 10 MAY 1925

Dear Jessie What a relief it is to take off my apron and remove myself from the kitchen at least for a short while.

necessities for sewing. It is such a darling! I think I shall keep it in my sitting room and use it when working on my little embroidered dress trimmings.

Today is a day of baking and letter writing so please do forgive me if my news is occasionally sprinkled with musings about cooking - or flour! About a month ago I agreed to supply a number of goodies for a fundraising fair for the Curran Street Public Schooli. While I’m an avid connoisseur of fete fare, I’m not a very good baker at all. But who needs to be with the embarrassment of bakeries that we have in Ponsonby Road alone! Perhaps a ‘batch of bakeries’ would be a more apt term?

Which reminds me… before I close I have to tell you about a picture I just saw which featured the most sublime frocks. You must see it! And I mean you simply must Jessie, as I hear the De Luxev is putting on quite a show as part of the event. My friend Ada has already been to it once and means to go again before it closes. At every session of the film Kirkaldie and Stains are presenting a fashion show with their London Mannequin “Henriette” vi modelling the latest fashions from London and Paris that the store has just unpacked!

I would so like to see them. If you do see tthe film, write and tell me about your favourite gowns. Mine is a slim-fitting white silk satin evening dress with a dropped wai waistline. A narrow flat silver braid encircles the hips and also fo forms an edging to the deep neckline, extending to form shoul shoulder straps. What is so very novel about this dress is the silve silver braid that extends from the shoulder and wraps, snakelik snakelike, around the arm until it forms a bracelet at each wrist. From these are suspended long silk fringed tassels! This sets off the fringing that reaches from the neckline to tthe waist and from the hips to the ankles. Am I clever enough to recreate this? I capa suspect that I am most capable of making something quite as ethereal but never, ever, ask me to bake you spo something as light as a sponge roll! You will be very sorry!!

I have to makee a confession but you must never tell. At the time I agreed to thee baking, the Committee asked if I’d also make a or the “guess the weight of the cake” competition. pound cake for They were so desperate that I agreed, not having a clue how to make one! I tried onee recipe that turned out very heavy indeed but I don’t think that is thee type of weight the Committee desires to know! Well I ith worry that I finally asked Mother if she would help grew so sick with me out of my predicament. If the unbaked mixture is anything to go by, this should be a great success with the Committee. u; last week I had a very painful tooth that I took I must tell you; an, my dentistii. Coincidentally, he’s based next to Dr Lonergan, to Buchanan’siii …one of my favourite bakers…cause and effect perhaps?? Anyway, on the way there - I allowed time to stopivv in at all the secondnd found the most hand shops and que sewing box. It is delightful antique ilar to Granny’s not too dissimilar er has in her box that Mother sitting room. Have you der? Mine is seen it, I wonder? hogany with a made of mahogany little design in mother of pearl to ound the lock. The the top and around rated in purple silk inside is decorated that is quilted inside the lid. It has at sits in the top with a little tray that compartments to hold thread, ors and all the needles, scissors

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Now I must attend to my sultana cake which should be just about ready to take out of the secon attempt and I’m feeling oven. It is my second quite confident!

Licks from Tiger to Wally the dog, With fondest regards,

Maudie xx i. In 1925 the Headmaster Headmaste was Toby Hill and the Mistress, Miss Eva Murray ii. Thomas A. Lonergan, Dentist, 245 Ponsonby Road iii. James Buchanan, Bakers Baker & Confectioners, 259263 Ponsonby Road iv. In 1925 there were 7 second-hand dealers in Ponsonby Road v. The De Luxe Theatre, on the corner of Kent Terrace and Marjoribanks Marjoriban Street in Wellington is now called The Em Embassy Theatre, vi. “Henriette” was advertised by “Henrie Kirkaldie an and Stains as a professional Mannequin direct from London.

She presen presented fashion shows for the store in the mid 1920s

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illustration: 99designs

h trouble deciding what to cook for the fete. You know how I had so much m! It can take me a good two hours to decide on a particular indecisive I am! shade of silk or the shape of a button! Too much choice is wonderful but it m me at times. Mother was so excited at the thought of me does overwhelm spending somee time in the kitchen rather than my workroom that she brought over some of her own as well as granny’s recipe books. Over tea and fresh h mother of course effortlessly whipped up) we went through pikelets (which her suggestionss and decided on a sultana cake, almond star biscuits and fudge. ttle anxious about the fudge - I’ve tried without success on many While I’m a little his recipe is a success I shall save quite a few pence each month!! occasions - if this Almond Stars are made from a simple biscuit recipe, cut outt with a star-shaped pastry cutter then brushed with egg white and dipped in a mixture of ground up sweet almonds and caster sugar. Don’t they sound delicious! If ccess I shall post you a tin of them! these are a success

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NEW MENSWEAR RANGE ‘AT HOME’ BY GUS YOU MIGHT HAVE NOTICED MORE CRUSHED VELVET AROUND THE AREA OF late. If so, chances are it is from new Auckland-based menswear company GUS. Hidden away in Freeman’s Bay, GUS has been quietly achieving some interesting things. The company is run by Angus Dobson and Joe Dowling who simply design the clothes they want to wear and it seems other people want them too.

Their first collection has certainly managed to turn a few heads and there is lively anticipation for the release of their new collection, ‘At home’, due in store as you read.

See the June issue of Ponsonby News published Friday 1 June www.ponsonbynews.co.nz like us! www.facebook.com/ponsonbynews www.twitter.com/Ponsonby_News

The new range features some eclectic textures and fine details that make their simple garments unique, but without shouting out too loud. They use a good dose of corduroy in their new showing, with a jersey and tailored shirt that will no doubt prove handy additions to any winter wardrobe. Along with their nicely cut and detailed tees – not to mention the hot-pick Velvet Back Jacket – the collection should be turning a few more heads. ’At home’ will be available at Ponsonby’s SUPERETTE, and is already available for pre-order online, so get in quick. PN

DON’T MISS THE JUNE PONSONBY NEWS+ DEADLINE COPY DEADLINE: Sunday 20 May PUBLISHED: Friday 1 June (Please be on time, as any material arriving after deadline may incur a 20% surcharge)

SPECIAL FEATURES: HOME INTERIORS AND RENOVATIONS + WIN ‘A VERY PONSONBY’ WARDROBE + SUSTAINABILITY TO BOOK ADVERTISING: ask about our special positions!

Jo Barrett on 021 324 510 or T: 09 361 3356 or 09 378 8553 E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz W: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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FASHION + STYLE HOME OF THE DANCING STARS ONLY A TEN MINUTE DRIVE FROM PONSONBY ROAD YOU WILL FIND NEW Zealand’s leading Dance studio ‘The Candy Lane Dance Studios’. This is the place to go and, as home of New Zealand’s top dance and singing teachers, it offers every style of dance under one roof; it is a one stop shop! No more taking classes in dingy halls with unqualified teachers. Candy has brought the quality and sparkle back with her purpose built, mirror lined dance rooms with their fabulous chandelier’s and dancewear shop.

You and your kids will feel like stars while you learn from their star teachers. They have classes for all ages starting as young as two years old. All levels in all styles of dance are available including Jazz, Funk, Hip Hop, Salsa, Latin American, Ballroom, Ballet, Tap, Singing, Cheerleading, boys only classes and more! Try their brand new classes! Getting fit with dance ‘Adult Hip-Hop work out’ 7pm Thursdays or bring your pre-schooler to their ‘two year olds Fun with Mum’ 1.15pm Wednesdays. Also new ‘Tiny Cheerleaders five to eight year olds’ on Fridays at 3.45pm.

Candy’s professional Dance Company can also be seen rehearsing for Commercials, TV and Corporate Events as well as the ‘Dancing with The Stars’ team. And their Mini Warriors Cheerleaders can be seen making any home game lively and exciting with their great routines! Auditions are often held there, it has a great buzz and excitement which the students love. Come and be part of New Zealand’s version of ‘Pineapple Studios’ at The Candy Lane Studios! PN THE CANDY LANE STUDIOS, 44 Mt Eden Road T: 09 638 5646 www.candylane.co.nz

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

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2 1-2. Local resident MAUREEN O’SULLIVAN told us, “My daughters and I recently went to Beijing over Easter and took this shot on THE GREAT WALL - an amazing experience. The photos are of RUBY and GRACE MELHUISH, both aged 12, from Herne Bay and they go to St Marys College. They travelled with a friend LUCY MCCABE from California who we gave the Ponsonby News to us. Her Mum is a Kiwi living in the United States.

3. Ponsonby Gardener, FIONNA HILL enjoys some down time in Darlinghurst, SYDNEY. 4. MYKE SUTHERLAND (pictured left) just sent us his photo with WARREN DOWSON, telling us, “We took this wee shot in French Canada and thought you might like to promote your mag from the top of chilly Mont Royal in MONTREAL! Awesome time had by all! Thanks for your great mag!” WE LIKE! Thanks for sharing.

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DEAR READERS Please keep sending us your holiday snaps reading your favourite magazine, we love getting them! Photos need to be in high resolution (300dpi), so please email them to info@ponsonbynews.co.nz without reducing the size.

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TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY! 

THE HEART OF EASTERN EUROPE

By Chris Lyons, Director, World Journeys To travel through the Ukraine and Russia is to journey through the cultural heart of Eastern Europe. Seldom visited by Kiwis and totally underrated, this can truly be called a unique travel destination so World Journeys invites you to join us on our third consecutive summer tour to the region in August 2012.

Flying in comfort with Singapore Airlines, (and other Star Alliance carriers) the starting point for the journey is Odessa on the Black Sea. First settled by the ancient Greeks, the city itself was founded by Catherine the Great, and today is a unique cosmopolitan mix of Russian, Ukrainian and Jewish culture. Here you board a comfortable river boat and set off for Kiev. First stop is Sevastapol, near the site of the famous ‘Charge of the Light Brigade’ during the Crimean War, offering classical architecture, rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. From here you can visit Yalta, scene of the 1945 Yalta Conference, and once the summer destination of Czar Nicholas II, whose White Palace still stands.

The Dnieper River takes you through the countryside of the Ukraine, dotted with Dachas (holiday homes), quaint towns and riverside villages. Shore excursions will reveal the fascinating “Free Cossacks” history of the area, with landscapes of vineyards and vast fields of wheat.

The history of Kiev goes back over 1000 years, and today’s city is a true mix of the old, the Soviet Union era, and the modern. Culturally rich, Kiev boasts great museums, art galleries and opera houses, along with fantastic restaurants and cafes.

After a short flight to Moscow, there is the impressive Kremlin with its onion-shaped domed churches and cathedrals. Here we board our next river cruise boat to venture on to the Volga Canal. Service and food on board these vessels are excellent and of course the advantage of river cruising is that there is always something interesting

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passing by your window! The ancient towns of the “Golden Ring” dot this route, and perhaps one of the most incredible sites is the extraordinary wooden Church of the Transfiguration on Kizhi Island. According to the Russian carpentry traditions of the time, the original Church was built completely of wood, with no nails. Some excellent handicrafts can be picked up along the way and great musical and folkloric performances are offered at various points.

A fitting end to this journey is a stop in St Petersburg, arguably one of the greatest cities on earth. Magnificent palaces and the amazing treasures from Czarist times in the Hermitage Museum make the three days we spend here an experience to savour.

World Journeys “Black Sea, Ancient Crimea & Rivers of Russia” itinerary is fully escorted from New Zealand, with a fascinating itinerary, and the company of a small group of like-minded fellow travellers. If you have always had a hankering to visit this part of the world, river cruising is the way to reach its very heart. PN

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 TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

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1-2. JAY PLATT, CAROL MACGILLIVRAY and MARTIN LEACH at RAINBOW SPRINGS; a lizard enjoys a little sun. 3-7. JAY PLATT at HELL’S GATE; a frog enjoys some human interaction; JAY in the HELL’S GATE ‘pot’; RACHEL, our tour guide at HELL’S GATE; the hot waterfall at HELL’S GATE. 8. Jay in the stocks at the 3-D MAZE. 9. MARTIN LEACH tests the very hot water in HINEMOA’S POOL on MOKOIA ISLAND BIRD SANCTUARY.

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TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!  ROTORUA THROUGH THE EYES OF A CHILD WHEN I STARTED TO FELL ILL SIX SEVERAL MONTHS AGO, I DID WHAT MOST men do, spent a period, where I thought I had a virus and I simply ignored the symtons.

Until I was in so much pain and could hardly move then, I went off to my Doctor. After three consultations and several blood tests, I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica (meaning “pain in many muscles” in Greek), Finally I knew why I was in pain.

The specialist report said Martin is in a hypermanic state with pressurised speech (who me?) caused by him being prescribed prednisone, five times stronger than he needed!

The only thing I didn’t like about the specialist’s report was him describing me at 96 Kgs as overweight... I picked up the phone to tell him, “you’re not exactly Twiggy yourself.”

Thankfully, Jay stopped me making that phone call.

My partner and I knew we needed to take a break away from Ponsonby and as Jay has just been diagnosed with a hernia himself after lugging five tones of boxes of PN to our delivery team each month….we both knew we decided to get away to unwind and recharge our batteries.

We went to Rotorua and spent four fabulous nights as guests of Bryan Hughes, Chief Executive of Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort. What a charismatic man he turned out to be and what a great place to convalesce. We were given a beautiful suite – with Jacuzzi bath for two – and enjoyed views looking over the lake towards Mokoia Island - this resort is truly magical and restful. We had spa treatments every day using products from Bryan’s own Alite range. The therapists, Yuki, a gorgeous Japanese girl and Lita Mahy, a Samoan beauty were like angels to us.

Bryan Hughes, couldn’t have been more generous. He bought us four nights dinner in his award-winning Mokoia Restaurant, where they had no less than eight (including soup) vegetarian/vegan options. We felt truly blessed and spoiled!

On our second day, Bryan made arrangements for us to take a tour of Hells Gate and to have a soak in a mudbath for an hour. We are so glad we went on the Monday because we bumped in to Carol McGillivray, an old friend from around the corner with us back in London! It was so therapeutic to neet an old friend, as she was leaving for a conference the next day, we had a superb dinner at Wai Ora’s Mokoia Restaurant. We also took her to Rainbow Springs to see the Kiwi and Jenny, the hand-reared Kea. Anyone who has read the ‘Celestine Prophecy’ will know there are no coincidences in life - everything happens for a reason! We ‘d planned to go to Hells Gate on Monday, but didn’t! Thank

goodness because we went the next day and bumped into Carol, our friend from Colville Terrace! However, that chance encounter with Carol and seeing her did make us all homesick for Notting Hill Gate and Portobello, W11.

On our third day, Bryan Hughes arranged for us to go to the Mokoia Island Bird Sanctuary with his guide Rawira. We had a magical afternoon walking through the bush and raking up leaves so birds swooped down to catch insects and worms disturbed by our presence. When I saw the sign beside Hinemoa’s pool, ‘No Swimming’, I almost cried, however, Rawira said, “look mate, if you can stand temperature’s of 50 degrees … jump in!” I gingerly put a foot in and before too long sat down in the pool. Rawira told me that since the Christchurch earthquake the temperature in the pool had risen by 10 degrees! While I was soaking, my partner Jay sat at the bush line watching birds coming and going. “I bet I can get this weka to come and play,” said Jay! “I’ve always had a way with the birds,” he joked. Back in London, maybe I teased him ... he was always being chatted up in the pub by what he termed dolly birds! This is serious conservation stuff, I told him, this bird is almost extinct! Suddenly and rather unexpectedly, a weka appeared and came within a metre or so of Jay. Thankfully, he captured the moment on his iPhone!

Ohhh... said Jay, on the way back to Wai Ora, he saw a sign for a 3D MAZE. “Doesn’t Richard O’Brien now live in NZ?” he asked, let’s check it out. This certainly wasn’t THE CRYSTAL MAZE but is Rotorua’s 3D Maze, the longest, most complex maze about 1.7km of paths, and nearly 60000 metres of timber combine to challenge young and old. We did the four corners in 25 minutes and were the only visitors at the time!

Tell Warwick Franklin, the owner, who before starting this business 22 years was with Auckland Gas working in Beaumont Street. “That is why I know Auckland pretty well and have an affection for the Ponsonby / Herne Bay area Martin,” he told me…Tell Warwick, Ponsonby News - the boys in the charcoal Mini Cooper from the Mini Garage in Ponsonby suggested you visit. He will be AMAZED! A BIG THANKS TO THE MINI GARAGE PONSONBY! The nice guys loaned us a great charcoal coloured soft-top MINI COOPER ($48,000) for our long weekend in Rotorua!

(When we left Lita, the spa therapist rushed out to give us a farewell blessing for a safe return journey to the city). Having owned two Minis during the sixties and seventys, it was very hard to part with this great little car!

CONTACTS: www.waioraresort.co.nz www.hellsgate.co.nz www.mokoiaisland.co.nz

www.wainbowsprings.co.nz www.3dmaze.co.nz www.mini.co.nz

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

EN PRIMEUR – BORDEAUX FUTURES EN PRIMEUR IS A PROCESS FOR ACQUIRING ARGUABLY THE BEST WINES IN the world at smart prices and in the format that you prefer. Essentially it is wine futures, similar to the way that coffee, cotton and other items are traded on international commodity futures markets. The process can be traced back for centuries but only recently did it reach the popularity that it has today. It was in 1972 when Chateau bottling became compulsory for Classified Growths that En Primeur in its current form was born. Prior to this, the Chateau in Bordeaux would sell their wine in bulk or in barrels to a wine merchant. The wine was then bottled by each merchant at their offices in Chatrons.

The benefit of purchasing Bordeaux En Primeur is threefold. Firstly, in most cases the price that you purchase the wine at En Primeur is significantly less than the wine will be on the retail shelf two years later (that’s if it appears at all). Secondly, there’s the availability, many of the wines will only be available En Primeur and won’t make it onto New Zealand retail shelves. The third is the bottling. Purchasing En Primeur you have the option to choose how you’d like your wine bottled, whether it is half bottles, standard bottles or even up to six litres.

The process of En Primeur essentially works like this (looking at the 2011 Vintage in Bordeaux as an example). Whilst the 2011 Vintage wines are in barrel in Bordeaux.

• The Chateau invites the international press to taste and review the young wines in April 2012 • The Chateau in Bordeaux offer their 2011 vintage wines to a Merchant (via a Courtier) around April – July 2012 • The Merchants of their wines to Retailers / Importers the world around April – July 2012 • The Retailers then offer the wines to consumers around May – July 2012 • Customers secure their requests for wines En Primeur with their retailer around September 2012 Then around August 2014 the wines arrive in New Zealand.

WHAT’S THE 2011 VINTAGE LIKE? The excitement and intrigue in the 2011 vintage Bordeaux wines internationally has started to build. In researching this vintage, one thing became clear; there are no generalisations that can be drawn. It seems that neither bank excelled, but rather smart

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producers, those that showed exceptional attention to detail and had the resources available to them, produced top quality wines, a vintage of selection. I think it is also interesting (and important) to note that even in irregular vintages, the top Chateau will produce outstanding wines (reduced quantities of them), that’s off course what draws so much attention to Bordeaux and places it on the world stage as being the capital of fine wine.

The growing season was one of the most unique the region has seen. We certainly did not expect to see bud burst when we arrived in Bordeaux this time last year, for the En Primeur 2010 vintage tastings. In fact, the temperatures caught us out, whilst it was pleasant for tasting, it seemed like the seasons had it in reverse, summer arriving before spring. What followed was an exceptionally hot April, one of the hottest on record. The heat continued for a few months, June was very hot (though not quite as hot as 2005 or 2009) it was also dry, drought like conditions.

July finally brought some relief with a cold patch and some well needed rain, unfortunately it may have been a little too late for some parts of the region. In September a storm hit various northern parts of the Medoc, with a hail storm devastating parts of St Estephe. All of this has led to a varied and very small crop. The Grand Vin declassified significantly more volume in this year, than the recent years. As with the 2001 vintage, it appears that there is a golden glow underneath all this, with many reports that the 2011 Sauternes are excellent, perhaps not living up to the levels of the legendary 2001 vintage, but definitely a highlight of the 2011 vintage. Another part of Bordeaux where reports appear more consistent is Pomerol, which has performed over the odds.

ARE THERE ANY CATCHES? THINGS YOU NEED TO WATCH OUT FOR? Definitely. There have been horror stories internationally with En Primeur purchasing, particularly through times of recession. It’s very important that the retailer you are purchasing from has a strong financial position (the wines are going to be delivered two years after you request your wines and pay your first payment).

You need to discuss with the retailer and ensure they are purchasing from reputable Merchants, that are secure. Unfortunately as interest in the top wines of Bordeaux continues to grow, demand exceeds supply and new international markets have emerged, leading to a lot of rogue operators at all ends of the operation.

Glengarry has been selling En Primeur for more than 25 years, with established connections and long term relationships. For more details visit www.enprimeur.co.nz or www.glengarry.co.nz (LIZ WHEADON) www.e-liz.co.nz PN

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY FOOD WEEK PROMOTES BETTER MEALS FOR KIWI FAMILIES 15 per cent of New Zealand households often or sometimes run out of food due to lack of money* – an issue the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation (NZNF) will address during Food Week.

FOOD WEEK IS RETURNING FOR A SECOND year from 7-13 May with the aim of raising awareness of the meal challenges many New Zealand families face on a day-to-day basis.

Research from the Adult Nutrition Survey released late 2011 also found over 30 per cent of New Zealand households are limited by money when it comes to the variety of food they eat.

“We don’t believe any New Zealand households should be struggling to put meals on the table – or struggling for inspiration,” says Sarah Hanrahan, NZNF Dietitian. “If more Kiwis knew what to do with a 99 cent cauliflower when they’re available in season, or had a repertoire of basic recipes for mince and frozen chicken, they have a better chance of making interesting, affordable meals for their families.

“Variety doesn’t have to mean using a broad range of ingredients; it can simply mean preparing ingredients in slightly different ways. Pumpkin, for example, can be roasted, used as the basis of a frittata, makes a lovely soup, is a fantastic curry base, and is great as a mash.”

Food Week aims to build confidence in the kitchen and teach Kiwis that cooking at home using seasonal produce and basic ingredients can be affordable and delicious.

“We know that poverty is an issue for Kiwis and that times are tough,” adds Hanrahan.

“Unfortunately food is often an area that is cut and when people do this we need to make sure the meals they can afford are nutritious, delicious and will be enjoyed by the whole family”.

Food Week is based around the Just Cook Food List, a list of basic pantry and fridge/ freezer essentials New Zealand households should always have on hand. “At the moment cauliflower, carrots, apples, broccoli, cabbage and pumpkin are all in season

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and cheaper to buy,” says Hanrahan. “By combing seasonal produce with other ingredients from the Just Cook Food List you can easily prepare nutritious, tasty and varied meals.”

The Interactive Kitchen, a Facebook app developed for the launch of Food Week last year is once again being utilised to assist New Zealanders in finding the perfect recipes to match their household ingredients. The app allows users to select key ingredients from the Just Cook Food List and then suggests tasty recipes based on their selections. The app is continually updated with new recipes and these can now be downloaded.

Additional Food Week activity includes cooking demonstrations in Otara and Mangere hosted by 2011 Masterchef winner Nadia Lim and Ian Thomas (The Egg Guy). TheJust Cook Create a Family Meal Challenge is also underway – a cooking challenge for school aged children aiming to build young Kiwis’ confidence in the kitchen while encouraging them to experiment with different techniques and ingredients. Students must create an original recipe, for a family of five, based on the ingredients from theJust Cook Food List.

Food Week sponsors include Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Sanitarium Nutrition Service, Watties, vegetables.co.nz, potatoes.co.nz, Eggs Inc, Harraways, Maggi, San Remo, Tegel, Tip Top Bakery, Carnation, Continental and Kenwood. For more information visit www.justcook.co.nz PN * University of Otago and Ministry of Health. 2011. A Focus on Nutrition: Key findings of the 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey. Wellington: Ministry of Health.

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY CHEESE AND CONDIMENTS FOR MUM How about giving Ponsonby Mums some of New Zealand’s favourite cheese? Kapiti Kikorangi blue was voted New Zealand’s favourite cheese by New World customers in the recent New Zealand Champions of Cheese Awards. Of course it’s available at Victoria Park New World. With an unmistakable creamy golden curd and rivers of dark blue, this cheese has passed into legend RRP (200g) $14.99 New World Victoria Park, tel (09) 307 8400 A delicious gift for foodie mums! Mediterraneo’s new Agretti Fruit Condiment range would make a lovely Mother’s Day gift...This simply delicious natural condiment range is available in 9 flavours and is made with a blend of grape juice, high quality wine vinegar and mouth-watering fresh fruit pulp - they will add flavour to any sweet or savoury dish. Ideal for glazing meat, using as a dressing, for use on desserts, with chocolate, cheeses, yoghurt or ice-cream. An absolutely divine condiment that is sure to become a kitchen favourite.

Product of Italy RRP’s for each are: $17.95 Contact Mediterraneo 845 5046 or visit www.mediterraneo.co.nz for more details.

IF YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT BARISTA EMPIRE COFFEE...

BARISTA EMPIRE IS A MICRO ROASTER BASED IN AUCKLAND FOCUSED ON roasting small batches of single origin coffees and a few blends designed specifically for espresso. Our roaster of choice is the diedrich ir series roaster we have found this roaster is the perfect balance of control and consistency.

We have been exploring alternative brewing methods with the syphon filters that we started using in 2008, as well as cold drip filter, chemex and single cup pour overs.

Not all coffee works well as an espresso, in fact many coffees we have found to work poorly through the espresso machine. This is why we feel it is important to promote the use of these alternative brewing methods to other espresso bars around New Zealand in order to get the best out of the coffees we supply. We are constantly bringing in new and exciting origins available through our stores and web shop.

All of the roasters we have at Barista Empire have grown up as a barista in one of our espresso bars; this gives them a deeper understanding of how to get the very best out of the coffee. All the roasters working at Barista Empire still spend at least half of the week behind the espresso machine. We feel it is important to understand the whole equation from sourcing and selecting coffee and to roasting it appropriately for how it will be made. Cupping is done regularly at Ben on Fort Street, usually on a Friday contact the staff at Ben to find out more, everyone is welcome.

At Barista Empire we encourage an open minded approach to coffee, there are no rules and no right or wrong, the proof is in the cup, if a certain brewing method or type of extraction from a certain coffee produces a great result, it is a great result.

As soon as we stop experimenting and trying new things with coffee we stop learning.

Feel free to stop by and talk coffee. We encourage an open exchange of ideas and are always happy to work with like minded people. Don’t be a stranger. PN STORY ESPRESSO BAR, 15 Park Road Grafton T: 09 379 7797 LITTLE B ESPRESSO BAR, 22a Cross Street Newton T: 09 302 4068 www.baristaempire.co.nz

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY A LITTLE BIT OF THIS AND A BIT OF THAT It’s been a little over a year since Zus & Zo opened on Jervois Road. This busy cafe was created by Clare and Joost van den Berg as somewhere they want to be everyday and a place that feels good for everyone who goes there.

Joost grew up in Holland. He was really good at hospitality and really enjoyed it too and eventually became Maitre d’ of a busy Italian restaurant in Amsterdam. Clare is from New Zealand and was living in London working in advertising and film, she took a trip to Amsterdam with her parents and says Joost “One night this beautiful girl and her parents came in for dinner but we didn’t have any seats left. They made a reservation for the next night and I made sure I was working so I could meet her again.”

The Dutch come from a sandwich culture and while Joost and Clare were travelling around New Zealand, they spoke about how difficult it was to get a decent sandwich.

They went back to Amsterdam and did a lot of research, travelling to France and Belgium where much of their inspiration comes from. “Antwerp was the first place to have new style cafes with boutique breads, big tables and beautiful rustic sandwiches.

We started collecting things at the French markets and a lot of the furnishings in Zus & Zo are from our trips” says Clare.

photography: Michael McClintock

Two years later they moved to Auckland, married and found the location for their cafe on Jervois Road. “We’ve tried to create a community space with a sense of Europe.

Having the tree outside and being on the sunny side of the street helps generate a positive feeling in the cafe. We’re part of a little hub of like minded business neighbours and customers and we hope we’ve become the place they gravitate to.

They’re all part of what makes our day in the cafe interesting” says Clare.

The local community has been very supportive and in the beginning Joost says they had to work really hard to keep up because they were so busy. “Clare and I work really well together, Clare is organised and takes care of all the front of house, staffing, PR and website and I take care of the kitchen, supplies and flavour of the food. We want it to feel relaxed and it’s nice to hear good feedback from customers. It feels really good when someone takes care to thank you, it reminds us we’re doing the right thing and on the right track.”

Recently Clare and Joost opened up the back room of the cafe. Room 228 is showcasing women’s wear inspired by a recent trip to Bali as well as fashion from New Zealand including Lily & Ming, Anna Caselberg and a new collaboration with Auckland based designer Sherie Muijs. In the future there might be interior design, small furniture or even a private dining room. Clare is still doing fashion styling and has just finished a documentary that was shot in Amsterdam about the Roxy, an iconic venue, part theatre, part nightclub that no longer exists. “It’s an interesting story that I wanted to tell with my friend Stacey Lee.” Says Clare “we love being here, it feels good to be here, it’s a lifestyle choice. In life you have to do what you genuinely want to do and this is what we want to do.”

The name Zus & Zo loosely translates to ‘a little bit of this and a bit of that.’ Says Joost “It’s how we look at life, one day it’s a little bit like this and one day it’s like that – enjoy.”

(REBECCA JONES) PN

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY BRAZIL MEETS AOTEAROA - A FUSION OF CULTURES Feel the rhythm and the energy of the Brazilian beat - this fused with a touch of Aotearoa and you have Ipanema Food and Art Society; a place to openly celebrate the best of Brazilian food, the rhythms of Brazilian music and the colours of Brazilian art!

Recently opened, the Ipanema bar with its entertainment area and dance floor to one end and the intimate restaurant to the other, has a unique and energetic atmosphere of its own, one not found elsewhere at the Great North Road end of Ponsonby Road.

Perhaps it is because of the upbeat Brazilian music mixed with the positive enthusiasm of its owners, Jeronimo and Ana Mendina and Ana Paula. Their sole focus is to bring the taste, colours and rhythms of Brazil into New Zealand and create a vibrant interaction between the two cultures.

With an artistic atmosphere, Ipanema is a place where musicians and artists alike can be openly creative. It’s where fine Brazilian cuisine can be savoured and where you and your friends can dance the night away with a lively Samba!

photography: Jo Barrett

“This is a family owned business,” says Jeronimo, “and it is our dream to offer to our local community and visitors to Ponsonby, the finest Brazilian hospitality whilst embracing the very best of our new found home – Aotearoa. We aim to make your time at Ipanema a happy one and leave you feeling like you simply must come back for more!

Ipanema – a slice of Brazil nestled in Ponsonby! It is the place to be! PN IPANEMA FOOD AND ART SOCIETY 2 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0655 www.ipanema.co.nz

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LOCAL NEWS: DEIRDRE ROELANTS

A PUB FULL OF OLDE WORLD CHARM EVEN THOUGH THE SURREY HOTEL WAS BUILT IN 1980 THE DÉCOR IS borrowed from much earlier times. Twenty years ago Richard Langridge bought the former Quality Inn West End because to own a hotel seemed a logical extension of the family business, Metropolitan Rentals, a business that his father started in 1959.

At the time of purchase the Inn had only 40 rooms and since then he has added another 43. In fact ever since the takeover he has spent several million dollars on the property, constantly upgrading till it’s now a top class hotel that incorporates a local pub and a brasserie.

Richard left our shores for the first time when he travelled to the UK in 1991. He liked everything about the historic English pubs he visited, particularly the fact they hadn’t been subjected to modernization in their four hundred years of existence. He returned afire with an idea of how to apply a similar ‘look’ to the Quality Inn. He was aware that many places he stayed in had a 70s, 80s, or even, 90s ambience and would soon need to be upgraded as fashion changed. The olde English theme he envisaged would never date and so he commissioned an architect to put it into effect.

The theme is continuous throughout the hotel from reception to the dining room to the pub and to the brasserie. Mullioned windows, adzed beams, heavy period furniture and Axminster carpet are features very different from the high rise monoliths in the CBD. With a motel complex across the road, it’s a truly multi-layered enterprise. Richard admits it’s an ersatz refurbishment, but it’s good ersatz and has particular appeal for visitors from the UK who appreciate the Surrey’s homely atmosphere.

The location within five minutes drive of downtown has much to recommend it. Ample free parking is a big plus and so too is the easy access to both motorway systems.

Buses and taxis are at the doorstep ready to transport visitors to all the nearby local attractions, such as the Zoo, MOTAT, Western Springs, Eden Park and the café culture on Ponsonby Road. The Grey Lynn Village offers all the amenities you’d expect to find in a city and there’s a supermarket close at hand for everyday needs.

Richard isn’t involved in the running of the hotel. He sensibly has left that side of things to a very competent manager, Denise King who has many years of experience in the hospitality industry. He admits to making some management mistakes over

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the years but with the hotel now run on a professional basis the staff are happy and everything operates smoothly. When checking in there’s every chance the resident cat, GM (for General Manager) might be on hand sitting on the desk next to the ever obliging receptionist.

The Surrey Pub has direct access from Great North Road well away from the hotel entrance, so the two businesses are linked but have separate identities. There’s a ‘happy hour’ seven days a week from 4.00pm to 6.00pm and the bar meals are very reasonably priced with no surcharge on public holidays. The restaurant menu and wine list is comprehensive and they even have a Wood Fired Pizza selection. Conference facilities are available with a choice of four meeting rooms that can accommodate any occasion for up to 120 people with full catering if required.

Leisure facilities include a heated pool on the ground floor, a fully equipped gymnasium, and a private spa pool. There’s a free internet kiosk in the Guest Lounge, all the rooms have Freeview channels on television, a wide selection of movies to suit all ages and preferences, and five Sky sports channels are offered for viewing in the Bar. All in all it’s easy to see what’s swallowed up Richard’s millions of dollars. The Surrey is well patronised by locals and the wider community and no wonder, given its high standard across the board. The residents of Grey Lynn are lucky to have such a great place on their doorstep. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) PN

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY THE STOREROOM AT THE CORNER STORE The unique and iconic bar has long been a popular watering hole with locals. Well known for their craft beers, excellent wine list top shelf selection and award-winning cocktails – The Corner Store is a welcome respite for after-work, pre-show, and after dinner drinks.

What you may not have seen are the extensive renovations to the Storeroom and the small plates of gastronomical joy leaving the kitchen lately.

Ben Convery (ex Tabou, Kingsland) has joined the team at the family-owned business, creating a menu of tapas-inspired small plates. Lamb croquettes, spicy seared tuna and an exquisite squid steak with chipotle butter are just some of the favourites – not to mention the delicious salted caramel dessert plates.

The Corner Store and Twentythree, the café next door, are both owned and operated by the Sparks family. A clever re-invention of the space allows The Storeroom, complete with its own fully stocked bar now opens to the courtyard shared with Twentythree, which soaks up the sun during the day, shelters from the wind and rain thanks to a retractable roof, then becomes cosy and warm in the early evening with fireplaces indoor and out.

Perfect to share a couple of plates between two, or ordering up for a group – the bar team have wine match suggestions for each of the dishes on the menu, including a few beer options from the guest tap and even the Beers to Share menu. There are tables indoor and out with full table service available.

The kitchen is open from 5pm – 10pm Monday to Sunday. PN THE CORNERSTORE, 25 Mt Eden Road Eden Terrace T: 09 379 5099 www.thecornerstore.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

KRISHNA’S FAREWELL Krishna Botica, for 21 years a fixture at Prego, has left the building.

At least for a little while.

She plans a year or so off from her GM role to tend to her neglected garden and simply relax. “I’ll miss the many positive and supportive customers, the Vegetarian Linguini, the wonderful staff and Brandon’s impersonations,” laughs Krishna. “But that’s alright, I’ll still find a way of getting my regular Prego fix. Perhaps now I can be one of the lucky ones who spend long afternoons in the courtyard, sipping Rose.”

The fact that so many of its core staff have been at the eatery for a decade or more is one of the biggest parts of Prego’s success. It enables a continuity of service few other places can offer and that has led to a loyal customer base, regular and committed, returning week after week. “We’re onto our third generation,” says co-owner Kelvin Gibson. ‘Kids who first came here with their parents are now coming with their own children. Without our extraordinarily loyal customers Prego wouldn’t be here.”

Brandon Lela’ulu who has been there for 12 years and restaurant manager for the last three years, steps up to become General Manager and Roberta Schmulian, another 12 year veteran, is promoted from Kitchen Manager to Assistant General Manager.

Krishna maintains it will be good to have some ‘new blood’ in the daily management of the business and that loyal locals have always known that “Prego is bigger than the person running the show.” The familiar faces of long serving staff, the consistently returning regular diners, the large and reliable menu, all contribute to the eclectic mix that is Prego. There is one other ingredient in the recipe for Prego’s ongoing popularity and that is its location. Prego’s owners agree that in no suburb other than Ponsonby could it have survived and prospered so well for more than a quarter of a century.

Executive Chef du Cuisine Lennox Bull with pizza chef extraordinaire Kava Likiafu, who has been at Prego for more than 20 years , are still there to ensure that the Italian bistro retains its high standards of dining and all its customers favourite dishes.

The next time you are at Prego keep an eye out for Krishna, sipping that Rose at a courtyard table, and know that as much as things might change somehow they also stay the same. PN

Remaining a shareholder in the iconic Ponsonby Road restaurant she is positive Prego will continue in the way it always has for its legion of dedicated diners.

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PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY? ARNEIS – ITALY’S GROOVY WHITE GRAPE NEW ZEALAND WINE MAKERS ARE A PRETTY ADVENTUROUS LOT, ESPECIALLY the younger ones who are still in their 30s and 40s. Many of them have trained in winemaking at either Charles Sturt University in Adelaide or Roseworthy College in South Australia, and from there many went on to do vintages overseas in Australia, South Africa and France. So it’s not surprising that they have been open to trying out new grape varieties in New Zealand.

Arneis is one of these varieties. (And I am reliably informed by my Bella Italiana pal Barbara Raffellini, that the correct Italian pronunciation is Are-Nace). The Arneis grape is indigenous to Piemonte in Northwest Italy. Its name means ‘little rascal’ in the local dialect – a reflection of just how difficult this grape is to grow and vinify. A lot of New Zealand producers use the rascal analogy on their Arneis labels. Flavour profile is a bit hard to nail – but definitely citrus, grapefruit, stone fruit and marmalade. Winemaker Simon Nunns and the Coopers Creek team pioneered Arneis in New Zealand a few years back but now some of the other young guns are giving it a go. Two recent examples came my way recently – both from Villa Maria’s Hawkes Bay vineyards, and both made by Nick Picone, their senior Auckland winemaker.

Nick is responsible for overseeing the production of Villa Maria’s North Island wines including coordinating harvest, formulating wine styles, and assembling blends to tie in with the company’s busy bottling programme. He has been with the Villa Maria Group for thirteen years, beginning as a teenager at Esk Valley in Hawkes Bay. In 2006 he spent six months in the UK with Villa Maria’s international distributor, followed by a vintage at G.D. Vajra in Barolo, Italy. Both these wines are quite dry, mineral and subtle – but they opened up after 15 minutes or so.

Villa Maria Private Bin Hawkes Bay Arneis 2011 $21.99 Not much in the way of aroma – but a whiff of citrus and orange blossom.

Some stone fruit herbaceousness and quince on the palate with a short finish.

Villa Maria Cellar Selection Hawkes Bay Arneis 2011 $23.99 A bit more going on here – and as I said, it opened up on the nose and palate after a while. Honeysuckle and citrus aromas, some dried apricot and quince flavours with a dry and mineral, yet lengthy finish. (PHIL PARKER) PN Phil Parker is a wine writer and operates Fine Wine Tours in Auckland. www.insidertouring.co.nz

WATCH THE SUN SET FROM MONTAGE WINE & COCKTAIL BAR Montage is a new local in the Point Chevalier region, occupying the foyer area of the once grand Ambassador Cinema. In keeping with the cinematic montage theme, the site was fully renovated within a five minute timeframe to the Starship song “We built this city”.

Montage is a local bar offering an inner city bar range of beverages. The intriguing cocktail list offers a selection of oak aged cocktails served over giant ice balls through to innovative cocktails using quirky ingredients. Come try a Crazy Pirate Float – perfect for the inner child that also isn’t afraid of a little gunpowder in their rum.

For fans of the grape, Montage has a great selection of wines by the glass to suit all palates and those who’re after something a little different, such as the Pyramid Valley Pinot Blanc or the Whitford Turanga Creek Malbec.

If you need a little more hops, then a tap poured Stoke beer might suit. A selection of the Stoke Bomber range is also available, as well as other local boutique beers – perfect to enjoy while sitting out the front on the communal table watching the sun set over the Waitakere Ranges.

Every Wednesday night we relive the 80s with DJ Mos Jef paying homage to the legendary Box nightclub retro Wednesday of years past. If you like it a little more low key, then join us on Sunday afternoons for a Bloody Mary or Allpress coffee and a little live soul and jazz. PN MONTAGE WINE & COCKTAIL BAR, 1218 Great North Road T: 09 849 4328 www.montagebar.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

WHAT’S HOT AT SABATO EATING IN PARIS WE MAINLY ATE AT BISTROS ON THE FRENCH PART OF OUR TRIP – OUR favourite being a classic called Bistrot de Paris in Rue de Lille, in the delightful seventh arrondissement, where you are surrounded by an art-walk of antique shops and interesting art galleries, making window browsing an education in itself.

Alain Milliat, of artisanal nectar fame, emailed us he had entered the restaurant game, so we decided to dine there one night. His chef, an Englishman by the name of Jon Irwin, has an interesting pedigree, as he has worked for a couple of great chefs, including Pierre Gagnaire.

Alain has gone way beyond a bijou boutique in which to sell his luxury range of artisanal nectars - though it is apparently a ‘salon de thé’ by day and you may order any of those from the stylish display on the walls if you so wish.

Patronised mainly by local chic Parisian 30-somethings, our 8pm arrival was a little early, as most did not arrive until a more fashionable 8.45pm.

For €29 you select two courses, and for €35 either cheese or dessert can be taken as well. Less if you go for lunch. It’s a fixed menu and you have a choice of two dishes per course.

We were served a delicious little amuse bouche which was salmon-based. This is not your typical French bistro food, but quite fine food at a very reasonable price. We later read the term coined for it is ‘bistronomy’.

The entrées were either a generous serving of pulled crab with a fennel sauce presented under a thin layer of sliced apple, or fresh foie gras on something they called ‘mushroom ketchup’, which was a tasty, savoury kind of spongy base; very interesting.

The mains were fish on black rice, or a bavette of beef with a delicious confit of onion topped with an elegant version of onion rings. There is a small, but good, wine selection, including one from New Zealand.

And we let ourselves be talked into sharing yet another dessert...

To see the range of Alain Milliat nectars or read more of our travel blogs visit our website. PN SABATO, 57 Normanby Road T: 09 630 8751 www.sabato.co.nz

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PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE Since we published our cafes and restaurants list last year, there have been a staggering 12 newcomers who have opened places in the Western Bays area. There are also some ommisions, where some businesses have declined to be listed for what ever reasons.

Rebecca Jones gives readers some compelling reasons to try some of them out...all that remains to be said is ENJOY! 5 LOAVES AND 2 FISH, 208 Jervois Road T: 09 361 5820 5 Loaves and 2 Fish have an interesting brunch menu and a variety of cabinet food to eat in or take out. A wide range of healthy heat and eat convenience meals such as lasagne, smoked fish pies, chicken cacciatore and coq au vin are available.

Open 7 days.

AGNES CURRAN, Corner Franklin and Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1551 facebook Agnes Curran is the place to go for morning and afternoon tea and cakes. Always gracious, the staff are ready to offer expert advice on the small but carefully selected menu. The regular friendly locals engage in light hearted debates taking place over the coffee machine and on the central table and it’s still the home of Ponsonby’s most decadent chocolate lamingtons!

ALLPRESS COFFEE, 266 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 4726 www.allpressespresso.com Passionate about coffee, this is a must-visit store to experience exceptional tasting coffee. Enjoy a perfect cup of espresso or discover single origin coffees and blends as a filter brew. A selection of fresh roasted beans is available for brewing at home. Handcrafted European ALLPRESS COFFEE style biscotti are baked on site.

ANDIAMO, 194 Jervois Road T: 09 378 7811 www.andiamo.co.nz Andiamo Head Chef Scott Smith says the most popular dishes are the fresh buffalo mozzarella with vine tomato and basil and the hearty braised oxtail and caramelized onion rigatoni. In winter you can enjoy a glass of wine from their award winning list by the open fire. Open 7 days and nights and brunch on the weekend from 9am.

ARCH HILL ESPRESSO, 333 Great North Road T: 09 376 1401 Delicious pies, sandwiches and cakes made fresh everyday on site. Open Mon-Fri 6am-3pm and Sat 7am-1pm.

ATICO COCINA, 19 Drake Street T: 09 419 5939 www.atico.co.nz facebook and twitter Atico Cocina is the newest restaurant in the historic and recently refurbished Victoria Park Market. Caribbean and South American flavours influenced by Spanish, French, African and local traditions make Atico a unique dining and drinking experience. They boast to have the longest tropical cocktail list in Auckland and serve Jerk Chicken and Goat Curry. $15 express lunch menu Tuesday to Friday. Open Mon 4pm-late and Tue-Sat 11.45am-late.

BAMBINA, 268 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 4000 Bambina is a casual, relaxed breakfast and lunch café where simple food, using only the freshest ingredients has been served for over 15 years. Licensed for beer and wine, Bambina is an all time favourite that consistently delivers and is a fabulous place to meet friends for coffee, breakfast or lunch. Mon – Fri 6.30-4pm, Sat and Sun 7-4pm. A Metro Top 50 cafe in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011.

BEDLAM CAFÉ, 2/104 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0015 facebook With Mediterranean influenced classic café food, this funky café is located in the heart of Ponsonby under the food court. Open 7 days 7.30am-4.00pm.

BILL FISH CAFÉ, Z Pier 3/31 Westhaven Drive T: 09 379 9875 www.billfishcafe.co.nz Alfresco dining with stunning views of Westhaven Marina and Auckland Harbour, this is one of Auckland’s best kept secrets and an ideal location for a special function. Open Tues-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat and Sun 8.30am-8pm.

BIRD ON A WIRE, 234 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 6369 facebook Bird On A Wire is a fresh and simple free range rotisserie chicken store. They offer chicken sandwiches and quarter, half or whole free range rotisserie roasted chickens with a choice of bastes from Jamaican jerk, Korean BBQ, salsa verde and truffle butter (the ‘Ponsy Coq’). Vegetarians are catered for with a grilled cheese sandwich, beer battered chips, roast vegetables and salads. Open 7 days 10.30am-10.30pm.

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BISTRO 222, 222 Ponsonby Road T: 09 361 3222 www.bistro222.co.nz facebook Bistro 222 offers a relaxed atmosphere for tapas, coffee, dining or enjoying a drink.

The menu includes Roast Duck, Lamb Shanks and Whitebait fritters. They also offer a kids menu and brunch on the weekends and are available for functions.

Open Tues-Thurs 3pm-late, Fri-Sun 11am-late.

BLAKE STREET CAFÉ, Corner Blake Street & Prosford Street, Apex Building T: 09 360 6261 www.blakestcafe.co.nz facebook Relax, unwind and enjoy the ambience, wine and delicious food. The menu includes all day breakfast, brunch and lunch. Try the Euro breakfast plate or the Big Kiwi breakfast. Open Wed – Sun 8am-4pm all year except Christmas day.

No surcharge on Public holidays.

BOLLIWOOD, 110 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 6477 www.bolliwood.co.nz facebook Bolliwood restaurant offers quality food achieved by employing five star chefs from India. Check out their special set menus that include Vegetarian Banquet, the Maharaja Banquet and the Bolliwood Special Banquet. $10 mains on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday nights and $10 lunch special 7 days. Delivery and take away are also available. Open 7 days 11.30 -2.30pm and 5pm-late.

BONA PIZZA, 286a Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 8866 facebook With 13 years experience, owner Pedro Komai offers a taste of fine Italian pizza and pasta. Bona Pizza is fully licensed and BYO with a happy hour from 4.30 every day – $5 beer and glass wine. You can eat in or take advantage of their delivery service and they cater for private functions. Open 7 days 11am-late.

BONITA, 242 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 5670 www.bonita.co.nz Bonita is a wine and tapas bar with an excellent wine list and cocktail credentials. Bonita’s relaxed atmosphere is the perfect place for a casual drink or tapas indulgence. Happy hour runs from 4-6 daily.

Open 7 days 4pm-late.

BUENOS AIRES RESTAURANT AND BAR, 234 Jervois Road T: 09 360 0678 www.buenosairesrestaurant.co.nz facebook This lively steak house uses Manuka on an open fire grill to cook all kinds of meat.

Enjoy live entertainment every Sunday with Latin music from 7pm. Great for groups.

Open Tues-Sun 5.30-late.

BURGER FUEL, 114 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 6466 www.burgerfuel.com facebook and twitter The flagship Ponsonby Burger Fuel was the first store ever built and for over a decade has been engineering the ultimate burger including Vegan, Vegetarian and gluten free options. Open Sun-Thurs 11am-late, Fri and Sat 11am-3am.

BURGER WISCONSIN, 168 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1894 www.burgerwisconsin.co.nz Burger Wisconsin has been on Ponsonby Road for 22 years. The menu is regularly updated on their website and you can phone in your order for pick-up from 11.30amlate 7 days a week.

BYZANTIUM CAFÉ, 80 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 3695 www.cafebyzantium.co.nz Byzantium is a friendly fully licensed cafe and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. A private function room is also available. Open 7 days for breakfast and lunch and Tues-Sun for dinner.

CAFÉ 7, 576 Great North Road Situated in the heart of the Grey Lynn shops, this is a small cafe now owned by Brent Matches who is well known for his best ever Blueberry pancakes with mint syrup. Vegetarians and meat lovers are well catered for as are coffee aficionados.

Open Tues-Sat 7am-4pm and Sun 8am-4pm.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE CAFÉ CEZANNE, 296 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 3338 For 28 years Café Cezanne has been world famous in Ponsonby for its full wall murals and yummy food and coffee at reasonable prices. Renowned for their healthy salads, they also offer a vegetarian menu, gluten free options and a children’s menu and everything is available to take away.

CATROUX, 129 Westend Road T: 09 376 3590 www.catroux.co.nz Catroux make everything on the premises including specialty cakes, salads, pies and savouries, slices and biscuits. There is a children’s sandpit and blackboard out the back, they make fresh juices and serve Peoples coffee. Open Mon-Fri 6.45am -3.30pm, Sat 7.30am-3.30pm and Sun 8am-3.30pm.

Fully licensed and BYO wine. Open Mon-Fri 7am-Late, Sat and Sun 8am-late.

CHAPEL BAR & BISTRO, 147 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 4528 www.chapel.co.nz facebook and twitter Now a Ponsonby institution, Chapel embodies the spirit of Auckland’s most iconic, and sociable, boulevard. It is the perfect place for drinks with friends after work, for dinner, a snack or a night out. Well worth the visit to sample delicious and very affordable fare such as the crispy Italian style pizzas.Chapel’s staff compliments the cosy & comfortable surrounds with their friendly service making you feel at home.Open Mon-Wed 3pm-Late and Thurs-Sun 12pm-late.

CAFÉ LIAISON, 2 Pompallier Terrace T: 09 376 2003 Café Liaison offers a breakfast and lunch menu, fresh sandwiches, cabinet food, cakes and slices. Enjoy a great coffee or hot chocolate in the sun-drenched courtyard. A catering service is available and they’re open every day except Christmas day with no surcharge on Public holidays. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8.30am-3pm.

CAFE O – THE ASTON, 34/332 Great North Road T: 09 360 1860 Eat Drink Relax Enjoy is the mantra at Cafe O. They serve Allpress coffee and Pacific Rim inspired food with lots of tropical and Asian flavours. Open 7 days 7am -3.30pm.

CAFÉ PEOPLE, 38 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 6876 facebook Cafe People is a stylish and spacious cafe with a heated outdoor courtyard. It’s a perfect place for a corporate lunch or casual brunch. The menu and cabinet foods are made with fresh local produce and award winning coffee is extracted by fully trained baristas.

CHARLIE BOYS COFFEE BAR, 167 Great North Road. T: 09 376 4585 Delicious homemade cabinet food & baking all made on site. Available for functions.

Open Mon-Thurs 7.00am-3.30pm and Fri 7.00am-3.00pm.

CHAPEL BAR & BISTRO

Cafe People is a great venue option for private parties and functions. It’s fully licensed with free parking next door and is a Metro Top 50 cafe. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8am-3pm.

CAFFETTERIA ALLPRESS, Corner Drake and Adelaide Streets T: 09 369 5842 www.allpressespresso.com Freshly roasted blends and single origin coffee arrive from the roastery upstairs into counter top hoppers and are available to take home. The cafe has a tasty selection of Italian style sandwiches.

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PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE

COCO’S CANTINA, 376 Karangahape Road T: 09 300 7582 www.cocoscantina.co.nz This is a lively, busy noisy bistro and bar, bustling with energy. The food is loosely based on casual Italian and service is slick and skilful. No reservations but you can sit at the bar and enjoy a great wine or cocktail while you wait. Open Tues-Sat 5pm-late.

COCORO, 56a Brown Street T: 09 360 0927 www.cocoro.co.nz Cocoro means ‘the heart and soul’ in Japanese and the food and service they provide comes with all their heart and soul. They serve Jun Mai pure rice sake and there is an emphasis on organic and biodynamic wines. Reservations are taken for the degustation menu only, casual walk-ins are welcome.

DELLOWS KITCHEN, 212 Jervois Road T: 09 378 6156 www.dellows.co.nz Dellows Kitchen provides fresh seasonal food for all occasions, excellent coffees and friendly and warm service. Check out their time saving fresh or frozen takehome meal options. Open Mon-Sat 7am-4pm and Sun 7am-3pm.

DIDA’S WINE LOUNGE & TAPAS, 54 Jervois Road Herne Bay T: 09 376 2813 www.didas.co.nz The food served is tapas style with a wine list that is monumental. Try the Albondigas de Cerdo - Wild pork, pimento and olive meatballs baked in sherry tomato sauce. Open 7 days 11.30am-Late.

DIDA’S FOOD STORE, 54 Jervois Road Herne Bay T: 09 361 6157 www.didas.co.nz An extensive and impressive deli counter, boasting imported and locally sourced meats, cheeses, olives, dips and a wide array of Antipasto. There is a variety of bread, pasta, risotto, hard to find condiments, sweets, cakes and more. They also serve coffee and offer a great breakfast and lunch menu. Open 7 days 7am-7pm.

DIDA’S WINE LOUNGE & FOODSTORE, 118 Wellesley Street, Victoria Park T: 09 308 8319 www.didas.co.nz Metro’s Best Asian Restaurant 2011 and Cuisine’s Best Specialist Restaurant 2011. A funky fusion of food and wine that is unique to the CBD. If you’re a central city Open Tues-Sat 12pm-2pm and 5.30pm-10pm. worker Dida’s has your day covered, from catering delivered to your office, brilliant breakfasts and coffee, pre-packed and serious DIDA’S WINE LOUNGE & FOODSTORE COFFEE SUPREME, 42 Douglas Street salads for lunch through to an amazing array of T: 09 376 2784 www.coffeesupreme.com Tapas to be enjoyed with a stunning selection of twitter wines if you swing by on your way home.

Coffee Supreme Douglas Street is the home of specialty coffee and offers everything you need This venue is also available for functions and to make delicious coffee at home. They give a events. Open Mon-Sat 7am-8pm and Sunday free cup of coffee when you buy a bag of beans 7am-7pm. and there is a variety of cabinet food to eat in or take away. You’re welcome to join them every DIZENGOFF, 256 Ponsonby Road Thursday morning between 8am-10am for a free T: 09 360 0108 facebook coffee tasting. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm and Sat People will make a special trip from near and far 8am-3pm. to get their morning coffee at Dizengoff. They serve a Jewish inspired menu for breakfast and COLLEGE HILL CAFÉ, 25 College Hill lunch and it is the place to go for a tasty meal with T: 09 309 0804 a difference. Open 7 days 6.30am-5pm.

Open for breakfast and lunch, College Hill Café offers a wide variety of cabinet and made to EAST RESTAURANT, 171d Ponsonby Road order food, their Chicken Laksa is really popular T: 09 360 6085 www.east.co.nz and they serve Burton coffee. Catering is also A casual dine-in environment, the meals have available. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3.30pm. a western spin on popular Asian cuisine and are served in a funky box. The menu covers cuisine CONCH CAFÉ AND RECORD STORE, from Japan in the north to Indonesia in the south.

115a Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1999 Dine-in, take away or have your food delivered. www.conch.co.nz facebook and twitter Open Mon-Fri 11.30am-3pm and 4.30pm-10pm, Based on a Brazilian Boteco, local hangout Conch Sat and Sun 4.30pm-10pm. is an independent record shop with a café that sells sweet snacks, sandwiches and coffee. You can browse through their really ELLA CAFÉ AND LOUNGE, 118 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 7979 great record selection as well as CD’s, books and DVDs. Café is open Mon-Fri www.ellacafe.co.nz facebook 8am-6pm, Sat and Sun 8am-5pm. Shop is open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat and Sun Ella is a casual yet elegant bistro to enjoy a quick bite or a romantic dinner.

10am-5pm.

They only use free range pork and source organic produce whenever possible.

Open Wed-Fri 12pm-2pm, Dinner Tues-Sat 6pm-10pm and Brunch Sat and Sun COVO, 137a Richmond Road T: 09 378 4500 www.covo.co.nz facebook 10am-3pm. and twitter Covo’s owner Ivan Fornasari is proud to serve fresh homemade egg pasta made EMPRESS GARDEN RESTAURANT, 227 Jervois Road T: 09 376 5550 on site every day and a range of pizza served whole or by the slice. Check out their www.empressgardenrestaurant.co.nz website for the latest specials. Open Tues-Fri 6pm-10pm, Sat and Sun 6pm-9pm.

Renowned for their Peking duck which must be pre-ordered, Empress Garden is on the corner of Herne Bay Road and Jervois Road and has been serving delicious CRU AT SALE ST, 7 Sale Street T: 09 307 8148 www.salest.co.nz Chinese food for over 30 years. Open 7 days 12pm-2.30pm and 6pm-10pm.

Nestled discretely in the rear of one of Auckland’s busiest bars is Cru Restaurant at Sale St - showcasing innovative, flawlessly executed food in a stylish and ERAWAN THAI RESTAURANT & BAR, Corner Lawrence Street and contemporary setting. Try the degustation menu and put your meal in the hands Jervois Road T: 09 361 3261 www.erawanthai.co.nz of Executive Chef Nick Honeyman for the night. A 2012 Metro Top 50 restaurant, Erawan Thai has built a reputation over the past 10 years for its excellence. What Cru provides some of Auckland’s most innovative and contemporary New Zealand makes Erawan Thai so special is the courteous, obliging and helpful staff, the - French cuisine. Open Tues-Sat from 6pm. restful ambience of the restaurant set in a grand old villa, the consistently superb food and the extensive wine list. Open 7 days for dinner and take away.

DELICIOUS, 472 Richmond Road T: 360 7590 www.delicious.co.nz facebook Popular for its delicious Italian cuisine, you will find on the menu traditional Ravioli, ESCOBAR ESPRESSO, 483 Richmond Road T: 09 376 4181 facebook Gnocchi, Risotto and Pasta and in the cabinet there is a range of beautiful Italian Celebrating their first anniversary in May, this cafe is all about coffee with a few cakes and tarts. Delicious is a busy restaurant, you’ll just need to drop in as they lovely savoury and sweet things to eat from the cabinet. They hold barista training don’t take reservations. Open Wed, Thurs and Fri for lunch 12pm-2.30pm and workshops, coffee tastings and seminars and the whole place can be hired for dinner from 5.30pm, Tues and Sat for dinner from 6pm. private functions. Open 7 days 7am-3pm

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

photography: Michael McClintock

CLOONEY, 33 Sale Street T: 09 358 1702 www.clooney.co.nz facebook Fine dining here is an experience, an elegant & clever use of space in a large modern room with exceptional cuisine created by Executive Chef Des Harris. His food is sophisticated and expertly crafted with assertive flavours and simplicity. A la carte and tasting menus are available as is an outstanding wine list. Intimate dining rooms are available for larger groups. Open 7 nights 5.30pm-late.

PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE FATIMA’S, 240 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 9303, 0800 fatimas www.fatimas.co.nz Delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern inspired food, Fatima’s offers fresh rolled and toasted pitas, chawarmas, filled toasted bap buns and salads to eat in or take-away. Open 7days 11.30am-10pm.

FUJI TEPPAN-YAKI CAFE & RESTAURANT, 282 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 6282 A cute little restaurant with authentic Japanese decor, friendly funny staff and creative food cooked in front of you. Fully licensed. Open 7 nights 6pm-11.30pm.

FUSION CAFÉ, 32 Jervois Road T: 09 378 4573 Fusion has a wonderful outdoor garden, it’s ideal for relaxing with a coffee made by one of their Allpress trained barista’s or for enjoying breakfast or lunch with the family. Fusion is also available for functions. Open Mon-Wed 7am-4pm, Thurs-Sun 7am-5pm.

GABLES SPEIGHT’S ALE HOUSE, corner Jervois Road and Kelmarna Avenue T: 09 376 4994 www.gablesspeightsalehouse.co.nz facebook A gastro style menu freshly prepared each day can be enjoyed in the sun drenched courtyard, by the cosy fireplace or in a sumptuous booth. They also offer the perfect event venue, whether it’s a dinner party for 10 or a function for 400. Kids dine free on Mondays with a full paying adult. Quiz GPK night Tues 7pm.

GANNET ROCK, 38 Jervois Road T: 09 376 8072 Gannet Rock is a breakfast and brunch cafe with treats like Mince on Toast, Pancakes and Seafood Chowder. There is also a wide range of home made cabinet food including muffins and Panini.

Open for the past fifteen years and proudly serving Karajoz coffee. Open Mon-Fri 7am -3pm, Sat and Sun 7.30am-3pm.

GARNET STATION, 85 Garnet Road, Westmere T: 09 360 3397 www.garnetstation.co.nz Garnet Station is a relaxed urban oasis serving smooth coffee and home-made food like cinnamon and caramel brioche; free range egg club sandwiches and lolly topped mini cupcakes. They use Chiasso fair trade organic beans, Green Valley organic milk and organic meat in their gourmet pies. There are great spaces for private meetings or large family groups. Open 7 days 7am-4pm.

GENJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT, 26 Ponsonby Road. T: 09 360 5050 At Genji, they serve the freshest sashimi and all varieties of Japanese foods in authentic Japanese surroundings and specialise in a la carte and Teppenyaki. They have three private function rooms and cater for up to 35 in the Karaoke room.

Off street parking is available in the rear for up to 20 cars. Open Mon-Sat 12-2.30pm and 5-10pm.

GPK, 260 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1113 www.gpk.co.nz A Ponsonby institution, GPK has been serving gourmet wood fired pizza to locals for more than 10 years. The pizza menu takes flavours from a variety of world cuisines with tastes from Mexico, Greece, India, Italy, Morocco and New Zealand.

Aside from pizza GPK has an extensive a la carte menu with a range of entrees, salads and mains. A Take-away menu and children’s menu are also available. Open 7 days Midday-Midnight and for Brunch on the weekend from 9am.

GREY LYNN RSC, 1 Francis Street, T: 09 360 2515 www.greylynnrsc.org.nz Open 365 days of the year this is a unique gem in the middle of Grey Lynn. The downstairs bistro has tasty reasonably priced meals while the upstairs restaurant is available for private functions.

Visitors and new members are most welcome. Open Wed-Sun from 5pm and weekends 11.30am-2.30pm.

GROUCHO’S CAFÉ, 1/143 Wellesley Street West T: 09 309 3939 facebook A retro licensed café and wine bar with hand crafted boutique beers and a wide range of gluten free food. There is a strong focus on nutrition and health and they use free range, organic and fair trade products when available. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

GUSTO ITALIANO, 263 Ponsonby Road T: 09 361 1556 www.gustoitaliano.co.nz At Gusto they keep things traditional; you will find the very best Gnocchi, Tortellini, Linguine, Ravioli and Spaghetti. Owner Armando Koci, trained in Italy, running Italian restaurants in Santorini and in Athens, Greece before moving to New Zealand. A private room is available for functions. Open Mon-Wed 5.30pm-late and Thurs-Sun 12pm-late.

HEADQUARTERS RESTAURANT & BAR – 132 Beaumont Street, Westhaven T: 09 309 7408 Well known as a venue for parties, Headquarters also offers delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner. Home made hash browns with breakfast and famous wood-fired pizza to eat in or take-away. A full a la carte menu is available with pasta, pizza, salads and fish and happy hour is 5pm-7pm Mon-Fri. Open Mon-Fri 7am-late, Sat and Sun 8am-3pm. Venue hire available every night.

HERNE BAY LOCAL, 170 Jervois Road T: 09 376 5367 www.hernebaylocal.co.nz facebook and twitter Choose from a selection of Asian influenced tapas and platters and a bistro style lunch and dinner menu. Using the best organic meats and fresh produce, they aim to provide a warm and relaxed environment for you, your friends and family. Curry night Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday Brunch from 11am and Sunday night Roast. Open 7 days 11am-late.

HUBCAP MINI GARAGE, 130 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 2568 facebook A delicious range of cabinet food and a full menu are available at Hubcap. Try their world famous in Ponsonby Empire Eggs. The manager, Zoe Cole, was fourth placed in the Auckland Regional Barista Championship, order a coffee from her and enjoy it in the retro antique lounge. Parking is available in the car yard. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-3.30pm, Sat and Sun 8am-3.30pm.

IL BUCO, 113 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 4414 www.ilbuco.co.nz Il buco serves the best Roman Pizza by the slice. You can buy one slice for a snack or 100 slices for a party. Owner and barista Jonny Rudduck serves Supreme Coffee and other popular menu items are beef lasagne, tiramisu and the little shots of hot chocolate are to die for. Open Mon-Sat 7.30am-9pm and Sun 11am-7pm.

IL FORNO, 55 Mackelvie Street T: 09 378 0264 www.ilforno.co.nz A bakery and café specialising in traditional Italian fare and bakery items, including fresh croissants, pastries, homemade cakes and a wide selection of breads along with an interesting selection of deli products to take home. The coffee is pretty good too. Open 7 days 7am-4pm.

IPANEMA FOOD AND ART SOCIETY, 2 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0655 facebook Newly opened this restaurant serves fine Brazilian cuisine with Brazilian art on display. It’s a place to have fun with friends eating tapas, drinking cocktails and enjoying dinner. A private function room is available. Open Tues-Sun 3pm-late.

Jafa, 551 Richmond Road T: 09 361 1100 facebook Jafa Café has a cool laid back atmosphere with a warm and welcoming team.

There’s Allpress Coffee and fabulous food like lamb’s fry and bacon or Balinese sticky black rice. There is a conference room upstairs for private group breakfasts, lunches or corporate meetings. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8am-4pm.

JERVOIS STEAK HOUSE, 70 Jervois Road T: 09 376 2049 www.jervoissteakhouse.co.nz At Jervois Steak House & Saloon you can discover the difference between grass fed and grain fed beef with Head Chef Kory Ashby. There is a great range of beef, lamb, chicken and fish and pre-ordering is essential for the restaurant’s signature slow-roasted prime rib. Bookings are essential. Open Sat-Tues 6pm-late and WedFri 12pm-late.

KOKAKO, 537 Great North Road T: 09 379 2868 If you are into fair trade Organic Coffee Kokako in Grey Lynn is the place to go. With an onsite roastery you can enjoy a freshly made coffee in the cafe or take home one of three coffee blends. There is an extensive cabinet and a la carte menu with a focus on local, organic and seasonal produce. Open Monday to Friday 7am-4pm and weekends 7.30am-4pm.

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PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE LA BOULANGE, 214 Jervois Road T: 09 376 5145 www.laboulange.co.nz Homemade baguette, croissant, pain au chocolat and pain au raisin are a few of the highlights of this little French bakery, cafe and sandwich bar. There are a few seats in the window and outside to enjoy a traditional pastry and Supreme coffee or try one of their delicious French baguette sandwiches or Macaroon. Everything is available to take-away. Open 7 days 7am-3pm.

LA CANTINE DU TORCHON, 265 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 2516 www.lacantine.co.nz facebook La Cantine du Torchon is the café for lovers of all things French. They serve traditional French savoury and sweet crepes and are open for brunch, lunch and dinner with happy hour from 5pm-7pm. The tiny tables, delicious food and intimate atmosphere make La Cantine du Torchon the closest you will get to an authentic French restaurant in Ponsonby. Open Tues-Fri 11.30am-late, Sat 8.30am-late and Sun 11.30am-3pm.

LA PORCHETTA, 304a Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0318 www.laporchetta.co.nz At La Porchetta you will not only find a huge selection of Pizza but also a fantastic range of pasta, along with steak and seafood dishes and of course a delicious range of ice cream desserts; Cassata, Tartufo and Coppa Gelato to name a few. A full takeaway menu is also available. They are open seven days for lunch and dinner and are fully licensed.

LA ZEPPA, 33 Drake Street T: 09 379 8167 www.lazeppa.co.nz One of Auckland’s favourite rooftop bars with impressive views over Victoria Park and to the sky tower. La Zeppa offers delicious hot and cold tapas to enjoy with friends and a glass of wine and is the perfect venue for social functions from two to two hundred. Bookings are not required. Open 7 days 4pm-Late and Friday lunch from 12pm.

Landreth & Co, 272 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 7440 www.landrethandco.co.nz facebook and twitter Landreth & Co is a cosy, relaxed European inspired cafe offering delicious homemade freshly cooked meals, as well as a selection of sweet treats.

The sunny peaceful courtyard - open all year round - is perfect to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy Roasted Addiqtion coffee.

Fully licensed and open 7 days 6.30am - 4.00pm.

LONGROOM, 114 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 8803 www.longroom.co.nz facebook Longroom offers a unique alfresco and indoor environment. The menu encourages sharing (any time of the day) from a selection of small plates, salads and platters.

A dinner menu is available for those wanting a more traditional dining experience.

Most popular dishes include Chilli Salt Squid, Miso Pork Belly and 60 Day Aged Rib Eye. DJ’s play Thursday to Saturday. Open Tues- Sun 11am-late.

MALT BAR, 442 Richmond Road T: 09 360 9537 www.maltbar.co.nz facebook A neighbourhood bar and restaurant in the heart of West Lynn, Malt is open for lunch, tapas, dinner and brunch on the weekend. Check out their website for daily specials like $4 dessert Monday, Quiz night Tuesday and Beer o’clock Sunday.

Open Mon-Fri 11am-Late, Sat and Sun 10am-late.

MARCELLO’S, 28 College Hill T: 09 361 2600 facebook What better way to start your day than with a gorgeous omelette at Marcello’s?

They serve great coffee and awesome food homemade fresh everyday which always comes with a friendly smile. Enjoy the experience at Marcello’s. Free wireless; catering and available for functions. Open Mon-Fri 6am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8am-3pm.

MELLO, 166 Richmond Road T: 09 361 5616 facebook Offering a wide range of homemade food including biscuits, slices, sandwiches, salads and quiche, Mello also have an a la carte menu for breakfast and lunch and are available for functions and catering. Open Mon and Tues 6.30am-3pm, Wed -Sat 6.30-4pm and Sun 7.30-4pm.

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MEOLA KITCHEN, 184 Garnet Road T: 09 360 6184 facebook Meola Kitchen keeps things simple with breakfast and lunch menu options that are spins on old favourites. There’s also counter food available including fresh pastries and delicious homemade muffins. Open 7 days 7.30am-5pm.

MOLLIES, 6 Tweed Street T: 09 376 3489 www.mollies.co.nz facebook and twitter Think romance, think Mollies restaurant; the perfect venue for a romantic gourmet breakfast or dinner and for private and corporate dining. Mollies offer many private spaces and are well-suited to hosting small parties and romantic candle-lit dinners for two. Open for breakfast Wed-Sat 7am-10.30am and dinner 6pm-late.

MONARCHY, 531 Karangahape Road T: 09 377 2218 www.monarchy.co.nz facebook and twitter Formerly Joy Bong, Monarchy has been a favourite East meets West Thai restaurant for many years. Monarchy has a modern Thai menu, new wine cellar and sexy new decor. Open Mon-Sat 11.30-2.30 and 5.30-late. Bar open 4.30-late.

MONDIAL, 549 Great North Road T: 09 376 6682 www.mondialbar.co.nz Mondial is a very relaxed and lively tapas bar with friendly, efficient service. You can order as many or as few dishes as you want, ranging from prawns, calamari, meatballs, lamb skewers and vegetable platters. They have a great wine list with a mix of international and New Zealand wines plus some great dessert wines. Open Tues-Thurs 4pm-late, Fri, Sat and Sun 3pm-late.

NAVAS CAFÉ MALAYSIAN CUISINE

MONTEREY COFFEE LOUNGE, 432 Richmond Road T: 09 360 0488 Monterey is a warm and friendly neighbourhood coffee lounge. Try their zucchini fritters or a schnitzel sandwich made on homemade bread.

Everything is made on the premises including delicious Butterfly Cakes. Eat in or take away. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8am-4pm.

MOOCHOWCHOW, 23 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 6262 www.moochowchow.co.nz facebook Like a stroll through the fragrant night markets and food stalls of Bangkok, MooChowChow is a boost to the senses.

The menu captures the vibrant ZANG of sweet + sour + salty + hot that makes Thai food a party-in-your-mouth. Cocktails of fresh fruits, shaved ice and smashed herbs will cool, refresh and tantalise. A private dining room is also available. Open Tues-Sat 4pm-late.

MURDER BURGER, 128a Ponsonby Road T: 09 550 5500 www.murderburger.co.nz facebook Gourmet eye fillet or venison, smoked kangaroo sausages, free range chicken and bacon are some of the best reasons to eat a Murder Burger. If you’re looking for quality and flavour, it doesn’t get better than this. Eat in, take-away and delivery in Ponsonby. Open Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri 11am-1pm and Sat 11am-11pm.

MUTIARA MALAYSIAN RESTAURANT, 66 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 2759 www.mutiara.co.nz facebook Mutiara Restaurant is a specialist in authentic Malaysian cuisine and authenticity is the top priority for Chef and owner Roy Lim. Malaysian cuisine is diverse in its influences and styles and this is reflected in the menu which offers signature dishes such as Rendang Kampung (thick curry), Ikan Bakar (Malaysian style grilled fish) and Mamak Noodles. Open for lunch Mon-Fri 12pm-2.30 and dinner 7 nights 6pm -10.30pm.

NAVAS CAFÉ MALAYSIAN CUISINE, 14 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 4478 Chef and owner Krishnan prepares and serves beautiful fresh Malaysian food.

A speciality is Murtabak (a handmade roti with lamb filling), Spicy Beef Rendang and Malaysian Indian style curries.

Family run, Navas loves children and you will always be very warmly welcomed.

Open for lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm and dinner 7 nights 6pm-10pm.

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PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE NISHIKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT, 100 Wellington Street T: 09 376 7104 www.nishiki.co.nz Robata-yaki means having dinner and drinks in a cosy, relaxed and social atmosphere watching the kitchen. Because most of the dishes are grilled and deep fried and snack sized, you can order many different kinds of food to share. Also available is a wide selection of Japanese sake, wine and beer; BYO wine. Open Tues-Sun 6pm-11pm.

NOODLE CANTEEN, 6/280 Richmond Road T: 09 361 6689 www.noodlecanteen.co.nz Choose from a wide variety of fresh choices then watch the preparation from comfortable bar stools. Freshly prepared high quality ingredients are always used.

Eat in or take-away and open 7 days 11.30am-9pm.

NOSTALGIA - PROHIBITION RESTAURANT, 108 Ponsonby Road T: 09 361 5858 www.nostalgia.net.nz A nostalgic trip to the past to appreciate the finer things about dining when going out was always glamorous. High Tea and Lunch are available Fri, Sat and Sun 12pm4pm, Dinner 7 nights 6pm-late.

OCCAM CAFÉ & BAR, 135 Williamson Avenue T: 09 378 0604 Occam is a popular spot with locals for breakfast, lunch, coffee, snacks or a relaxed weekend brunch. There are tables inside and out and a mezzanine bar creates a buzzy atmosphere. They are fully licensed and you can phone in your coffee order for quick and easy pick up. Occam is also a great venue for functions. Open Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat, Sun and public holidays 8am-5pm. Opening for dinner in May. OH!SO CAFÉ, 29 Crummer Road T: 09 360 0700 facebook For fantastic cafe food and great coffee, oh!SO cafe has a quiet and relaxed atmosphere making it the perfect place for a casual business meeting or a catch up with friends. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat 8.30am-3pm.

ONE 2 ONE CAFÉ, 121 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 4954 www.one2onecafe.co.nz One 2 One cafe has just celebrated its 20th year, uses coffee supplied by the local boutique roaster Craig Miller and offers a selection of organic wine.

Family friendly with a charming Parisian PONSONBY ROAD BISTRO style and a covered courtyard complete with children’s sandpit and blackboard. Tuesday open mic night, Thursday local musician jam night & Friday Jazz night. Open Mon-Fri 6am-5pm, Sat and Sun 7am -5pm and until late on Tues, Thurs and Fri. OTTO WOO GOURMET NOODLE BAR, 47 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1989 www.otto-woo.com Otto Woo provides western style modern Asian cuisine with Japanese and Thai influences. Each meal contains loads of fresh vegetables infused with high quality sauces and herbs. Gluten free and vegetarian meals are also available. Open Mon -Fri 11.45am-2.30pm and Mon-Sun 4.30pm-9pm.

PANE & VINO, 20 Williamson Avenue T: 09 360 0263 www.paneevino.co.nz Owner Tito is passionate about the food they serve which is regional Italian style cuisine. Classic antipasti, pasta and mains all exceptionally flavoured using fresh ingredients plus popular Italian desserts and Thin Crust Pizza. Delivery in Ponsonby and catering is also available. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-Late, Sat and Sun 5pm-late.

PARADISE INDIAN, 236 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 8826 www.paradisetakeaway.co.nz Hot and spicy, mild and medium, Paradise specialise in Biryani and their food is100% Halal guaranteed. Eat in or take away, delivery and catering available.

Open 7 days 11am-9pm.

PHILIPPE’S CHOCOLATE, 293 Great North Road T: 09 376 1754 www.philippechocolate.co.nz Not just fabulous flavoured chocolates and hand rolled truffles; Philippe’s also make French pastries, cakes and baguettes. Open Mon 8am-4pm, Tues-Sun 7.30am-5.30pm.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

PONSONBY INTERNATIONAL FOOD COURT, 106 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0800 www.ponsonbyfoodcourt.co.nz Walk right in and taste the mouth watering recipes from Italy, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, China, Thailand, India, Indonesia and more. Situated right in the heart of Ponsonby, this is the perfect place for that leisurely lunch, dinner or quick break from business. Open daily 10am-10pm.

PONSONBY ROAD BISTRO, 165 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1611 www.ponsonbyroadbistro.co.nz Ponsonby Road Bistro offers a well-priced menu and interesting wine list in a stylish and relaxed environment. Sarah Conway’s menu provides a global feast – and the char-grilled scotch with hand cut chips has become a firm favourite. The friendly staff and cosy dining room offer a warm welcome. An express lunch menu runs weekdays from 12 noon. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-late and Sat 4pm-late.

PREGO, 226 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 3095 www.prego.co.nz Established over 25 years ago, Prego is the ultimate in Italian al fresco dining with the intimacy of an enclosed courtyard, late suppers at the bar in front of a wood fire or Bistro style dining with the buzz of a busy restaurant. Take-away available, open 7 days 12pm-late.

PURE RESTAURANT, 186 Jervois Road T: 09 360 0714 www.purerestaurant.co.nz Swiss born, award winning chef, Stefan Loetscher, owns and runs Pure together with his partner Nadine. They make all their breads, pastas and ice cream on the premises and create food with simplicity and clarity.

The bistro style menu offers new dishes every week changing according to whatever fresh ingredients are available.

Open Tues-Sat 6pm-late.

QUEENIE’S LUNCHROOM, 24a Spring Street, Freemans Bay T: 09 378 8977 www.queenieslunchroom.co.nz Tucked away from the bustle of Ponsonby on the corner of Spring Street and Cascade Road is award winning Queenie’s Lunchroom.

Offering Supreme coffee, a unique sweet selection and tantalising menu with hard to resist daily specials. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3.30pm, Sat and Sun 8am-2pm.

RABBIT HOLE CAFÉ, 203 Jervois Road T: 09 360 0755 facebook Rabbit hole Cafe is an interesting eclectic cafe based on an Alice in Wonderland theme, with mismatched crockery, bone china and unusual furniture. They use Velvet fair trade organic coffee and you can enjoy it on the deck overlooking the water. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8am-3pm.

RAVIZ RESTAURANT, 164 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 9911 www.raviz.co.nz facebook Open since 2000, Raviz offers complete Indian cuisine at affordable prices. They offer dine in, take away, delivery, banquet and function menus that are known by locals to be value for money. Open Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30 and Mon-Sun 5pm-late.

RENKON EXPRESS, 2/175 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 3090 This restaurant specialises in Donburi, which is a large bowl of rice topped with fresh vegetables, meat or fish. The meals are quick, cheap, unpretentious, nutritious and well-balanced. Open 7 days 11.30am-3pm and 5pm-9.30pm.

RICHMOND ROAD CAFE, 318 Richmond Road T: 09 360 5559 www.richmondrdcafe.co.nz One of five award winning cafes owned by Jackie and Scott, The Richmond Road Cafe is a buzzing urban cafe providing restaurant style food and service at cafe prices. There’s an all day menu, sweet selection, freshly squeezed juices and frappes plus a champagne, wine and beer menu.

Open 7 days 7am-4pm. Their other award winning cafes include The Cafe on Kohi, The Store on Kohi, Takapuna Beach Cafe and Rosehip.

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PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE RIPE DELI, 172 Richmond Road T: 09 360 6159 www.ripedeli.co.nz facebook and twitter This is a vibrant food-lovers haven serving innovative take-out food, using the best of local ingredients. Decadent home-baked slices, cakes and brioche; a variety of gourmet sandwiches, salads and wraps and take home TV meals plus cured meats, cheese and home-made relish, dressings and chutneys. Owner, Angela Redfern has just published her cookbook Ripe Recipes. Delivery is available for out-catering and you can order online. Open Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat 7.30am-3pm and Sun 8am-3pm.

ROCKET KITCHEN, 234a Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 8834 www.rocketkitchen.co.nz facebook Serving Aucklander’s for over 15 years, Rocket Kitchen’s truly gourmet take-away and catering includes their range of premium fresh wedding and birthday cakes, tarts, desserts, sweets and cupcakes. Savoury treats and salads are also available from the iconic shop on Ponsonby Road where everything is made fresh each day.

Open Mon-Fri 8am-6.30pm and Sat 8.30am-5pm.

SAFFRON INDIAN RESTAURANT, 31 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 2122 www.saffronindianrestaurant.co.nz Saffron specialises in South Indian cuisine. On Friday, Saturday & Sunday between 11am and 3pm they serve an all vegetarian buffet brunch.

Catering, take-away and delivery in Ponsonby is also available. Open 7 nights 6pm-10.30pm and Fri, Sat & Sun 11am-3pm.

SAILS RESTAURANT, Westhaven Marina, Westhaven Drive T: 09 378 9890 www.sails.co.nz Open for 25 years, Sails boasts beautiful marina and harbour views, a fine dining menu and an extensive wine list. Whether for a wedding, small or large function, business dinner or romantic dinner, Sails is one of the best places to dine on the waterfront.

Open Mon-Fri 12pm-3.30pm and Mon-Sun 6.30pmLate.

SALE ST BREWERY, 7 Sale Street T: 09 307 8148 www.salest.co.nz Situated in the heart of Auckland’s hot spot, the Victoria Quadrant, Sale St. is a uniquely Kiwi mega-venue that defines style. There are a variety of bar and dining options including a bar, micro-brewery, Auckland’s largest deck and garden bar, a Metro Top 50 restaurant – Cru at Sale St. and The Velvet room private bar as well as a live music stage. Open Mon 3pm-Late and Tues-Sun 11.30am-Late.

SALTA ESPRESSO, 285 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1295 Salta Espresso delivers quality personal service, great coffee and delicious fresh food made with pride on the premises every day. A full breakfast and lunch menu is available as well as delicious cakes, pastries and sandwiches. Open Mon-Fri 6.30am-4.30pm, Sat and Sun 7am-4.30pm.

SANTOS CAFE, 114 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 8431 www.santoscoffee.co.nz Marcelo has been roasting coffee here for over 17 years. Santos is a boutique coffee that is roasted everyday Brazilian style. There is a wide range of salads and Panini and the best Eggs Benedict in Auckland according to Canvas magazine.

They also squeeze fresh juice to order. Open Mon-Sat 6.30am-4.30 and Sun 7.30am-4pm.

SATYA SOUTH INDIAN RESTAURANT, 17 Great North Road T: 09 361 3612 www.satya.co.nz Satya is situated near the Ponsonby, Newton and K Road intersection. Their South Indian recipes are age old and are based on Ayurvedic principles; their motive is good food. With its relaxed ambience and friendly staff, it is a great place for a vast range of Indian meals at a good price. Take-away, delivery, catering and banquets for large groups are all available. Open Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30 and MonSun 5.30pm-10pm.

SAVOUR & DEVOUR, 478 Richmond Road T: 09 361 2631 www.savouranddevour.co.nz Savour & Devour offer a range of cabinet food with homemade cakes, pies and sandwiches and a full breakfast and lunch menu. Catering and take-away is available. Open Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat and Sun 8am-5pm.

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SAWADEE THAI CUISINE, 42a Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0320 www.sawadee.co.nz Sawadee offers dishes from the four main regions of the Siamese Kingdom. Thai Food is a blend of tastes – hot, sour, salty, sweet and spicy with subtle additions of aromatic herbs to enrich the traditional flavours. Fully licensed, take away menu, functions catered and BYO Wine. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm, Mon-Sun 6pm-10pm.

SHAHI INDIAN EXPERIENCE, 26 Jervois Road T: 09 378 8896 www.shahi.co.nz facebook For more than 20 years Shahi Cafe has been serving Ponsonby locals timeless, sumptuous North Indian cuisine with a difference. There is an extensive variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes; some of the most popular are Shahi Cigar, Shahi Skewered Chicken and Stuffed Tomato Curry.

A private function room is available and catering, delivery & take away menus.

Open 11am-2.30pm and 5pm-late.

SIDART

SIDART, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz Sidart is the restaurant of Chef Sid Sahrawat with modern creative New Zealand cuisine. It is a formal restaurant with innovative food and attentive service headed by Ismo Koski. The gorgeous city views and intimate dining room make Sidart a place for special occasions. Open Tues-Sat from 6pm, Fri lunch 12-2.30pm.

SIERRA CAFE PONSONBY, 295 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 0081 Offering famous specialty Sierra coffee with delicious food from the cabinet or menu and everything is available to take away. Open 7 days 7am-5pm.

SLICED LUNCH BAR, 104 Richmond Road T: 09 360 6156 Made to order sandwiches, fresh juices, smoothies and gluten free options make this a must visit cafe for lunch. Sliced use only free range eggs, chicken, bacon and ham and err on the side of healthiness.

They also have cakes and biscuits and you can eat in or take away. Open Mon -Thurs 7am-3.30pm, Fri 7am-3pm and Sat 8am-2pm.

SOTO JAPANESE GARDEN RESTAURANT, 13 St Mary’s Road T: 09 360 0021 www.soto.co.nz Soto has a fresh new look and menu. A long time favourite Japanese restaurant in Ponsonby and Auckland, Soto now offers a traditional platter style lunch menu and Izakaya style dinner menu with the ‘new style’ twist that has made them famous.

Open Tues-Fri 12-2pm and Tues-Sat 5.30pm-10pm.

SOUL THAI, 158 Williamson Avenue T: 09 302 8888 www.soulthai.co.nz At Soul Thai, our goal is to cook restaurant quality, authentic Thai cuisine using the finest ingredients and deliver your order to your door fresh and fast. Order by phone or online. Now open in Mt. Eden too. Open 7 days 5pm-10pm.

SPQR, 150 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1710 www.spqr.co.nz A Ponsonby institution, SPQR has been a prominent fixture along the Ponsonby strip for 20 years. The lively atmosphere and friendly service gives SPQR an authentic, first-rate reputation. The pizza is great for an anytime snack and Veal Marsala is an old favourite. Eat in or take-away. Open 7 days 12pm-late.

STAR THAI, 1 St. Mary’s Road T: 09 378 1776 www.starthai.co.nz A comprehensive wine list complements the fine food and you are welcome to BYO wine. Whether dining in or ordering dishes to eat at home, you can be assured of the finest Thai food cooked in the traditional way, prepared from the very best ingredients including fresh herbs, spices and exotic vegetables – a true taste of Thailand. Delivery is also available. Open Tues-Sun 5.30-late.

SUNDAY PAINTERS, 185 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 2001 www.sundaypainters.co.nz facebook James Kirkwood chooses the wine and Esther Lamb runs the floor, they’ve created a bistro style restaurant with a French inspired menu and a comfortable atmosphere. Open 7 nights 5.30-late and Fri lunch from12pm.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE SUSHI WASABI, Shop 14, 1 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 8388 Situated next to Dorothy Butler’s Children’s Book Shop, Sushi Wasabi specialises in traditional sushi and nigiri and sushi made with brown rice. This is a daytime restaurant and you can dine in or take away. They have a loyalty card too. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

TANGO, 2A Surrey Crescent T: 09 378 7888 www.tangopizza.co.nz Alex Escalante’s newest venture is a fun and lively place to eat home-made pizza and pasta. There is a fully licensed bar and outdoor heated patio. Open 6 nights 5pm-Late.

TAQUERIA, 166 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0076 Taqueria, pronounced Ta-ka-re-a is a Spanish/American word that means a place where burritos and tacos are made. They offer Taco’s and Burritos’ using freshly made ingredients prepared daily onsite. Eat in or take-away. Open 7 days 11.30am-11pm.

THAI CLASSIC RESTAURANT, 282 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 3389 www.thai-classic.co.nz Thai Classic Restaurant has been running strong since 1994 specialising in Authentic Thai Cuisine. Flaming Chicken and Flaming Beef are recommended dishes. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, a relaxed and friendly ambience and wonderful views of the Waitakere’s. Take-aways and delivery available to Ponsonby locals. Open 7 nights 5.30pm-10.30pm

authentic Thai dishes and the outdoor area has room for up to 20 people and includes a private balcony with great views of the city. Open Wed-Sat 11.30am-2pm and dinner 7 nights 5pm-late.

THE CAVALIER TAVERN, 68 College Hill T: 09 376 4230 www.thecavalier.co.nz Ray Wilson has been the owner of The Cavalier Tavern for 20 years. Whether you want a bar snack or a three course meal, the restaurant has a great selection of food including burgers, fish, chicken, steak, salads and vegetarian dishes. There is a large selection of imported and New Zealand wines and a huge range of tap and bottled beers. Eat inside or outside on the spacious deck. Open Mon-Sat 11am -Late and Sun 12pm-late.

THE FAIRY SHOP CAFE, 79 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1560 www.fairyshop.co.nz The recently refurbished Fairy Shop has added a cafe serving homemade old fashioned food like Devonshire scones and lemon drizzle cakes. Pre-book a cafe session class where littlies play with fairies and adults can relax in the cafe.

Children’s parties, high tea and school holiday programmes also available with parking in the rear. Open 7 days 9.30am-4.30pm.

THE CAVALIER TAVERN

THAI HOUSE RESTAURANT, 25 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 5912 www.thaihouse.co.nz Since 1993 Thai House Restaurant has been serving the finest quality Thai cuisine and taking pride in serving only quality and authentic ingredients freshly prepared along with warm and personal service. Thai House has an intimate ambience, warmly decorated with traditional Thai décor. Fully licensed, BYO wine and take -away. Open 7 nights 5.30pm-10pm.

THAI ME UP, 244 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 9909 www.thaimeup.co.nz An excellent selection of curry, seafood, salads and vegetarian dishes served in a lively atmosphere with friendly service. An extensive wine list complements the

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PONSONBY LITTLE BLACK BOOK: A-Z CAFÉ’S + RESTAURANTS GUIDE THE FOOD ROOM, 250 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 2425 www.thefoodroom.co.nz facebook Gourmet sandwiches, salads, wraps, homemade cakes and slices, organic coffee and “The best pies in Auckland” award. The Food Room can cater for all kinds of parties and celebrations and is definitely worth a visit. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am -4.30pm, Sat 8am-5pm and Sun 9am-5pm.

THE GARNET ROAD FOOD STORE, 162 Garnet Road T: 09 376 8227 Known for their Cinnamon brioche, The Garnet Road Food Store also makes their own salads, pies, cakes and sweet treats. Dine in or take away. Open Tues-Fri 7.30am-3pm, Sat and Sun 8am-4pm.

THE ITALIAN JOB, 242 Jervois Road T: 09 376 2937 For over 20 years this family owned and operated restaurant has been serving delicious, authentic Italian food in a welcoming, cosy and rustic atmosphere and whether you’re a large group or it’s an intimate dinner for two, you will always experience warm friendly service.

Take away Pizza and Pasta. Open Tues-Sat 6pm-10pm.

private functions with the option to have their popular set menu. Open 7 nights from 5pm until late with belly dancers on Friday and Saturday.

TURKISH CAFÉ, 294 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0468 www.turkishcafe.co.nz The Turkish Cafe serves fresh wholesome food inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with a strong Turkish influence. There are set menus or they can tailor a menu to suit your tastes and the occasion you’re celebrating.

Takeaway is available too. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri and Sat 11am-11pm.

URBAN JUNGLE, 571 Great North Road T: 09 360 8470 www.urbanjungle.co.nz For over 10 years Urban Jungle has been turning out THE LITTLE GROCER consistently good food. They are fully licensed and BYO wine. Open 7 days 7am-4pm, Thurs, Fri, Sat 6pm-late.

THE LITTLE GROCER, 311 Richmond Road T: 09 962 6711 facebook This deli, coffeehouse, grocer serves home-made food that is made in small batches like Reuben Sandwiches, Falafel Wraps and their own original home-made ice - blocks. There is also giftware including Crown Lynn, take-home dinners and lots of vegan and gluten free options. Open Tues and Wed 7am-4pm, Thurs, Fri, Sat 7am-7pm and Sun 9am-3pm.

THE PONSONBY BELGIUM BEER CAFÉ, 1-3 St Mary’s Road T: 09 376 6092 www.theponsonby.co.nz facebook Ponsonby charm meets cosmopolitan Europe in the old Post Office building.

This BBC has New Zealand’s largest range of Belgian specialty beers and is also famous for their pots of New Zealand green-lip mussels and old-fashioned Flemish stew. ‘The Ponsonby’ is a little piece of Europe in the heart of Auckland.

THE PONSONBY SOCIAL CLUB, 152 Ponsonby Road T: 09 361 2320 www.ponsonbysocialclub.co.nz facebook Just like the RSA but without the asparagus rolls or pokies.Live music and DJs throughout the week, check the website for details. Open 7 nights 5pm-late.

THE SURREY HOTEL, 465 Great North Road, T: 09 378 9059 www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz facebook This local pub has a cosy atmosphere, friendly service and food available all day.

There is a breakfast buffet, brunch, lunch and dinner menu as well as bar snacks and wood-fired pizza. Open 7 days 7am-9.30pm

VINNIES RESTAURANT, 166 Jervois Road T: 09 376 5597 www.vinnies.co.nz facebook and twitter Vinnies is a restaurant with history and a reputation for fine dining in relaxed and welcoming surroundings.

Chef/Patron Geoff Scott provides a top class dining experience and is renowned for producing consistently outstanding food.

There is an award winning wine selection and superb professional service, a variety of seasonal, degustation, dessert and party menus and a Friday light lunch menu.

You can arrange a private Whiskey or Champagne tasting or use their private dining room for functions and celebrations. Open Tues-Sat 5pm-Late and Fri lunch from noon.

YAKITORI BAR TAISHO, 190 Jervois Road T: 09 378 0746 Yakitori Bar Taisho serves both traditional and modern Japanese food. There are over 60 dishes to choose from including sushi and sashimi, 15 different kinds of sake, as well as Japanese and local beer and wine. Owner, Taka Tsuji, is from Hiroshima where his parents have run a restaurant for over 34 years so he has grown up with traditional Japanese food and hospitality. Eat in or take away. Open Tues-Sat 6pm-Late, Sun 5.30pm-10.30pm.

YUZU JAPANESE RESTAURANT, 145 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 6040 Head chef Chris has over 20 years experience in Japan and Korea and offers an extensive range of modern contemporary Japanese cuisine. Only the finest ingredients are used and fresh fish is supplied daily. Yuzu will satisfy the discerning Japanese diner. You will find them next to Marvel. Open Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm and 5pm-9pm.

THE WILLIAMSON CAFE, 1 Williamson Avenue T: 09 360 1115 Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch or brunch, The Williamson Cafe offers you a delicious menu or a range of cabinet food. They are fully licensed and a wonderful venue for a private function. Open 7 days 7am-4pm.

ZIPANGU JAPANESE DINING BAR, 45 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 4565 www.zipangu.co.nz At Zipangu they serve authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. You will find more than just sushi and tempura on the menu as their chef has had years of experience working with international cuisine. Enjoy wine, sake or beer with you meal. Licensed and BYO wine. Open Tues-Sun 5pm-late.

THIRTY NINE, 39 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 5008 Thirty nine has been serving delicious all day breakfast and lunch since 2005.

They use fair trade Allpress coffee and you can enjoy it in their lovely courtyard.

Open 7 days 7am-4pm.

ZUS & ZO, 228 Jervois Road T: 09 361 5060 facebook This is a charming local cafe situated in a sunny corner of Herne Bay. Fresh and simple cuisine with a Dutch twist, they create wonderful flavours using only the finest ingredients. Open Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat and Sun 8am-3pm.

TRENDY INDIAN, 204 Jervois Road T: 09 376 2001 www.trendyindian.co.nz Specialising in Northern Indian Tandoori, Trendy Indian is fully licensed and offers banquet menus, catering, take-away and delivery. Open Tues-Sun 11.30am -2.30pm and Mon-Sun 5pm-10pm.

TROY RESTAURANT & BAR, 161 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 5203 www.troyrestaurant.co.nz Troy Restaurant and Bar provides a wide range of dishes made by experienced Turkish and Italian chefs. They are fully licensed and cater for large groups and

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THE SURREY HOTEL

photography: Michael McClintock

TOMO JAPANESE RESTAURANT, 33 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 4757 Tomo has been serving delicious Japanese food for more than 10 years. They are fully licensed with 10 different Sake or wine and beer to enjoy with your food. Their popular take away Lunch Box includes salad, tempura, rice, miso soup and your choice of meat or fish. BYO wine only. Open Mon 10.30am-5pm and Tues-Sat 10.30am-10pm.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY SNAPDRAGON OFFERS 1930S VINTAGE GLAMOUR WITH STUNNING HARBOUR VIEWS FROM EVERY VANTAGE POINT, YOU CAN find Snapdragon Kitchen & Bar nestled perfectly in the heart of Auckland’s Viaduct.

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, you can dine from a delicious contemporary gastro menu full of rich flavours and fresh ingredients.

With a wide assortment of mouth-watering dishes available including sorrel crusted blue nose or spice rubbed duckling, you can also find the perfect wine to match from their world-class wine list. Whether you visit for an after-work drink paired with a delicious platter on the upstairs balcony overlooking the glistening harbour, a dinner for two, or a large social function, Snapdragon is the perfect location for any type of social gathering.

Offering a blend of 1930s vintage glamour and West Hollywood lounge, Snapdragon is spacious yet offers a sense of intimacy across all of its areas. With three distinct spaces spanning two levels you will find breathtaking views from every vantage point.

On the level above you will find the Viaduct’s most elevated bar serving delicious cocktails either in the lounge inside or on the deck out, as well as a hidden games room, a more intimate space reminiscent of London’s private members clubs only to be discovered by the push of a button.

Downstairs you will find the dining room edged with a soaring seven-metre high living wall alive with thousands of lilies and ferns. Filled with surprises waiting to be discovered, Snapdragon is designed to delight visit after visit. PN SNAPDRAGON KITCHEN & BAR, 204 Quay Street Viaduct Harbour T: 09 357 6147 www.snapdragonbar.co.nz

BYZANTIUM CAFE OPEN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND NOW DINNER THE VERY FUNKY BYZANTIUM CAFE LOCATED JUST PAST WILLIAMSON Avenue on Ponsonby Road has been serving breakfast and lunch to Ponsonby locals and visitors alike for over 25 years. This friendly and cosy traditional Ponsonby cafe with its sunny back courtyard and seating for up to 65 people has built a good reputation over the years with their semi-vegetarian dishes, cafe food, daily specials and made-to -order sandwiches. These delicious breakfast and lunch offerings are also well priced and considered by many to be good value for money.

There have been some recent changes at Byzantium Cafe, which many people may not be aware of. They are now open for dinner service with a new and specially designed menu. To celebrate this they are offering, during the month of May, (for dinner

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

only), one main course with one free glass of wine and when you order $150 or more on your food bill, they will give you free bottle wine to have with your dinner.

And if you are have a birthday coming up or want to hold a private function, book their upstairs function-room that can seat up to 20 people. They will offer free birthday cake for up to 10 people and the first three hours of hire are free. To get more information about the function room, or to make a booking for dinner go online to their website.

Byzantium Café is fully licensed and has an extensive wine list comprised of New Zealand, Australian and European wines. PN BYZANTIUM CAFE, 80 Ponsonby Road T: 09 376 3695 www.cafebyzantium.co.nz

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SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY

EDEN PARK NUMBER TWO GROUND, WHERE IT BELONGS FOR EDEN PARK Scaffolding, temporary tents and the sight and sound of earth movers is nearly over for Mark Perham and the Eden Park grounds team, with the new and improved number two ground on track to be ready for the start of the 2012/2013 domestic cricket season in October.

The first ball to be bowled on the outer field will mark the end to Eden Park’s upgrade which has seen first class cricket absent from Sandringham Road for over two years.

On first glance when you walk about the park it’s hard to see how it will all come together, but as Perham explains the spectators have as much room as they do at any other first class cricket venue and if the concourse from the number one ground on the eastern side is used in such a way this might just provide one of the best birds eye viewing platforms in the country to watch a cricket match from.

The completion of the redevelopment will come as a bit of an early birthday present for the ground that once was swampy wasteland, 2014 will mark the parks centenary as Aucklands main sporting ground. PN

photography: Jo Barrett

“It’s actually brilliant, from up there you sit square of the wicket and are elevated in such a way it’s like being in the stands of the number one. And on the other hand we will again have a ground in the centre of town where people can bring their pull out chairs and sit right up against the boundary rope.”

The train system should also have people heading back in their droves to support the Aces, whilst Colin Maiden Park has been a worthy substitute for the past couple of years, the long drive out east has often been a put off, seeing spectators choosing to catch the action courtesy of Sky TV, from inside their living rooms. The Aces too can’t wait for their return to Eden Park; as a player, you want to play in front of as big a home crowd as you can get, says coach Paul Strang, “a few of our players are from out west, so I’m sure they’ll appreciate playing a little closer to their homes also. Eden Park’s number two ground was once a fortress for Auckland cricket and we’d love nothing more than to make it that again.”

FROM MAKING WALLS TO JUMPING THEM FOR KIWI OLYMPIAN WITH LESS THAN 80 DAYS TO GO UNTIL THE START OF THE LONDON 2012 Olympic Games it’s easy to get excited, but this time around Aucklanders have been given a little more to cheer about with an unlikely competitior also sporting the blue and white of The City of Sails along with the silver fern of New Zealand.

The outbreak of equestrian influenza in Australia six years ago influenced kiwi born Jonathan (Jock) Paget to pack up his business in Sydney and head home, a move that turned out to be a real life changing experience.

edge his way into the equestrian New Zealand high performance squad alongside kiwi legends Mark Todd and Chris Nicholson.

To most, starting in a sport so late in life would be extremely difficult and the thought of representing your country a far fetched dream, but not for Paget. He even believes that just might be the thing that separates him from the rest of the competition “sometimes I find myself wondering if I’m going to make the jump, so I try even harder to not make mistakes, I work harder and longer before I get to the competition both on and off the horse” he says.

Two years prior, 28 year old Paget was an apprentice bricklayer, but decided he needed a new challenge in his life so threw caution to the wind and gave riding horses a go. To now be faced with trying his hand at a skill he had limited experience in, in a country he hadn’t lived in for nearly 20 years would have been an intimidating scenario, not to mention working in a female dominated industry, Paget admits to it being a fairly crazy decision at the time “I was quite uncomfortable to start with, especially with the clothing, I refused to wear jodhpurs to begin with, in fact I must have worn jeans for the first six months” he added.

Paget has been described as a natural more than a freak by his team mates “there’s no doubt he works hard and gets the rewards, says Mark Todd, but his ability to read the horse he’s riding and quickly get it to do what he’s asking doesn’t come easily to many, but Jocks got it.” “For me it’s great to see a good young rider coming into the sport at this level,” Todd went on to say. “When I retired the first time the sport fell into a bit of a lull in New Zealand, but our success and the efforts of the likes of Jock in the past couple of years has given me greater hope things are getting back on track.”

Since arriving back in New Zealand Paget has been riding for the Clifton Eventing stable in Muriwai and in the past 12 months has split his time between there and their stable base in England, a move that has allowed both Paget and the Clifton horses to gain more international experience. This added experience has also seen him

Equestrian NZ CEO Jim Ellis can see a bright future for Jock, and suggests that they can only be thankful for the unfortunate circumstances that saw Paget leave Australia and return home, meaning the talented youngsters helmet has a silver fern on it now rather than a possible kangaroo like it may have. (GEORGE BERRY)

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY

CRICKETS TRUE HOME AWAY FROM HOME For some it’s sitting in the front row of the fashion week in Paris, others walking about and discovering the old ruins of a place like Ephesus, but for me as a lover of sports it’s getting to visit the home of a particular sport, that’s the true pinnacle of interest for me.

Towards the end of last year I was lucky enough to get a tour of what’s known as the home of cricket, Lords cricket ground in London. I was shown through the pavilion, toured the interestingly shaped media centre, sat in the changing rooms and even got to walk the same path every batter takes when heading out into the middle when it’s his turn to bat.

The paintings, the traditions and the history that place possesses is mind boggling, especially to someone who’s spent most of his life in a very young country like New Zealand. I left there in awe of the game and have even found myself enjoying it that much more upon my return.

And as I explained hoping to also suggest that I wasn’t interested in buying his dodgy item, (whatever it was he was going to try to sell me) I lived in New Zealand. “Oh New Zealand, he would answer back, good cricket team, Vettori, Fleming, Taylor.”

They would all respond in a similar way, some of the older men would even recite names like Crowe, Greatbatch and Hadlee.

This in itself had me in a constant state of amazement, I mean if an Indian walked into your place of work, could you strike up a conversation right off the bat, especially to the stage of naming a handful of their best ever sports people?

But I have to say my recent trip to India has trumped that feeling by a hundred to one.

Lords may have won the title “the home of cricket” but India is without a doubt the true spiritual home of the game.

The other thing that has me now believing India is the true home of cricket is the IPL 20-20 competition. Some say it’s to the detriment of the game, but once you step foot into the stadium and witness a match first hand, all of that will change.

It’s believed cricket was invented in the seventeenth century by shepherds in England, who played the game with a shepherds crook for a bat, and an old rolled up ball of wool for a ball. It was a way of entertaining themselves late at night as their sheep rested, with the nightly fence they surrounded their flock with providing the perfect tool for a boundary rope. When you look about both the slums and just about any piece of space big enough to swing a bat in India there are kids doing exactly the same, with what ever instrument they can find.

The six and a half week long competition has the nine teams playing every second or third night all over India, forty thousand plus people jam into whatever stadium is hosting the match of the day and then go crazy supporting their team. The noise level is something else, at times easily double that of a rock concert and the cheering and flag waving would leave the Barmy Army for dead.

I found groups of kids playing down tight little alleyways barely two meters wide and catching the ball off the walls of the houses, and multiple games criss crossing each other in a dusty uneven strip of dirt right against the busy roads. There was no sign of pads, helmets or even shoes on players all ranging in different sizes, shapes and age, but they were there, both day and night playing the game they love. The same thing struck me as I wandered into a bazaar and some crazy sales man darted out from behind a rack of clothes or cds “hello my friend” he would say “where you from?”

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

The security is like Fort Knox, the crowd is split by two meter high fences with barbed wire along the top and there is no way of entering with a camera or phone and you’re not even able to buy bottled water – Pepsi is the sponsor and they have set rules. Yet people still go and love it.

Adidas has even joined in on it’s advertising demanding supporters not be called fans, but owners. A clever marketing ploy playing on the emotion of it’s followers.

(GEORGE BERRY) PN

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HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY

LISA BOURNE – A JOURNEY OF HEALING FROM THE UK TO NZ In October of last year, former top British newspaper executive Lisa Bourne was appointed General Manager of leading New Zealand natural health training institute, Wellpark College of Natural Therapies. Lisa, dubbed `Queen of the Regional Press’ in the UK, said at the time that the appointment was “part of a total life makeover” after years spent working in the highly competitive British media arena. Intrigued, I sat down with her one afternoon at Monterey cafe to find out more.

It turns out that it was an issue with her own health that first lead Lisa to seek help from the natural healing world. Whilst working as the Managing Director of a major UK newspaper, she found herself at age 41 mastering the corporate ladder but with a very different challenge ahead of her.

“I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis on the same day as the London bombing,” she begins, “and it was such a shocking and strange day. London was totally silent for the first time I’d ever known, and I basically just went home and did a lot of crying.

I decided to read about the different drugs I’d need to take and I was absolutely petrified of what lay ahead of me. Their side-effects sounded worse that the condition itself, and I knew there must be a better way.”

She also refused to accept that hers was an incurable situation, and made the decision soon after that she was going to move to New Zealand and embark on a healing journey that would change her future.

“I’d travelled to New Zealand before on holiday and just loved it so much,” she says with a smile, “it feels like a big version of the Isle of Man here, which was where I grew up. It never ceases to amaze me how kind people are here as well, the complete opposite to what I was living with daily whilst working in London.”

She adds that she realised that she had fallen for the typical career woman’s dream of “getting the right apartment and the right lifestyle and thinking that was enough to make me happy, when in reality it was quite the opposite. I decided that I was ready for something more down to earth and more real, a simpler way of being for a higher quality of life.”

She singled out New Zealand as the ideal country in which to begin that new life, and arrived via time spent in California and Australia where she worked on freeing herself of Rheumatoid Arthritis. She healed herself of all of its symptoms through a mix of the right herbs and a fresh new diet, “plus a removal of all stress from my life where possible.”

She’d always been interested in aromatherapy and homeopathy but never had the time or the finances to pursue any sort of training, until she arrived in Australia and made the decision to train as a naturopath. “My own story inspired me,” she explains, “and I started to look at colleges in America, the UK and Australia, and then New Zealand. Wellpark just stood out for me and I started as a student there not long after.”

Now a qualified naturopath, herbalist and nutritionist, she started in an official capacity at Wellpark halfway through her learning journey when she was asked to help them out by lending her considerable marketing skills to their management team.

“Before I knew it I was the Marketing Manager,” she laughs, “and it was quite amazing to be in the position where I could do what I was trained for originally, but for the good of something I truly believed in.” She says that it’s rare to find someone in the natural therapies world who is also business-minded, so she was more than happy to be of service to the college that had helped transform her life. Fast forward to 2012 and as well as being Wellpark’s General Manager, she is still free of Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms and a resident of the relaxed beachside village of Muriwai. She is also a practicing naturopath, “not surprisingly seeing a lot of people suffering from the same ailment as I was!”

To finish our chat, I asked her what people can expect when they make the decision – as she did - to study at Wellpark and she thinks carefully, before telling me: “inspiring tutors and the opportunity to gain a skill that can really make a difference to someone’s wellbeing.” It doesn’t get much better than that. (HELENE RAVLICH) PN

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LISA BOURNE, General Manager of leading New Zealand natural health training institute, WELLPARK COLLEGE OF NATURAL THERAPIES.

BRING A FRIEND FOR FREE AT MORE THAN SKIN TWO ARE DEFINITELY BETTER THAN ONE, AND THE CHANCE TO DOUBLE up on something we love is always irresistible… Clearly we’re true advocates of the ‘twice as nice’ principle, which is why we’re in such a hurry to grab our bestie and head down to the More Than Skin Urban Spa. During May, the Ponsonby Urban Spa is running an unbeatable offer where you and a friend (or partner, or mother, or sister, or whoever) can both enjoy a relaxing facial for the price of just one!

Simply book any Joyce Blok or DECLÉOR facial of one hour or longer and your BFF will receive the same treatment for FREE* (a savings of up to $155!).

And with our couples room you can indulge in a little girly chat to catch up on all the latest news and gossip, while you relax and let the expert More Than Skin therapists care for your skin. Sounds positively blissful right?

This amazing ‘Bring a friend for FREE’ offer is certain to be extremely popular and this promotion is likely to book out quickly. So pretend you’re on the ‘The Bachelor’, decide which lucky friend or family member gets the BFF rose, and call the Ponsonby team today on T: 09 361 2231 for more information. PN * Appointments should be taken at the same time and be of the same type to qualify for this exceptional offer. This offer is available from Monday to Friday until 31 May 2012.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HOROSCOPES

MISS PEARL NECLIS

♊ Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June

Don’t feel like that you’re unable to renew old friendships that may have fallen by the wayside even though you have been out of contact for a long time; you will find that doors are very much open.

HAIR EDUCATION, INSPIRATION, CELEBRATION

♋ Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July

Star hairstylists, salons and brands will join forces at the Hair X three-day event - a first for New Zealand.

to the max although you project this tough coping barrier that acts as your shell, you’re

June 2-4 2012 will see New Zealand’s dynamic hair industry come together - brand alignments temporarily cast aside - at Hair X 2012. To be held at the Hilton Auckland, the inaugural Hair Expo promises a sensational long weekend of education, inspiration and celebration.

The past few weeks have truly tested your resourcefulness and your multitasking skills fast running out of ways to let off your own steam.

♌

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August

Sometimes when you need help and help is there you have to take it. You have survived a very traumatic period in your life and have got through it with the determination of others who love and support you. This might be the third phase of your life beginning with some healthy changes right from the start.

♍

Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September You might have noticed that your behaviour recently has been ruffling feathers so it might be about time you changed or modified your actions. You will still be noticed but your respect level will increase also.

♎

Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October You should not feel the need to give anyone a hard time especially as you have been on the receiving end of a few lectures yourself. If friends have problems help them through it as you might be able to offer the right advice.

♏

Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November Why be peacemaker when your efforts can often go to waste especially when there is conflict amongst your co workers, there is another level you can aim for if you want to go higher up.

♐

Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December Try and stay close to those that know you best because you may be going through a phase that might see you doing things you don’t normally do. If you want my advice you’d be safer closer to home.

♑ Capricorn (the Goat): 23 December - 20 January

If there is conflict within your family now is not the time to give up and walk away, you can sort anything out even though you are so frustrated. What you must not do is take sides and share secrets because that’s definitely off limits.

♒

Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February Don’t deviate if you have a plan that might involve some romance, you might have a few wobbles on your journey that might try to throw you off course. But those blips can change your journey and often throw you in the right direction.

♓

Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March You have always had a roller coaster ride of a life that has always been supported by your friends but you need the support of your family and you know that this is what matters. It’s not too late to get them involved just not with both feet first.

♈

Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April Your mood may turn very dark this month and you may feel very sluggish as if you’re carrying around an invisible weight. Fear not though with changes at work a difference seems to appear in you and you’ll realise black moods don’t last forever.

♉

Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May Your instincts have taken over recently and you have shown that you can and are able to get through anything, and with the added workload your mood has also lifted. When the time comes for your turn to be looked after you won’t need to ask.

92 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

Created ‘by hairdressers, for hairdressers’, and helmed by New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year (2011) Sara Allsop, Hair X boasts L’Oreal Professionel, Fudge and Redken as sponsors. Top talent from the country’s best-loved salons will join VIP guest international fashion show hairstylist Snowden Hill - in showing off their hair magic, and sharing the secrets to their success. A primary Hair X goal is to provide a platform for up and coming young talent.

EDUCATION A total of 18 Seminars presented by industry heavyweights will be held throughout the day on both Sunday and Monday (3 and 4 June). The Sunday seminar schedule has a strong business/creative focus and offers presenters of the calibre of Jennifer Morgan (Morgan & Morgan), Guy Roberts (Vada) and Grant Bettjeman (Bettjemans). Monday’s theme is Session Styling and Photographic Work, with seminars by Snowden Hill and top local talent complemented by presentations from the M.A.C Pro Team, a live Remix Editorial Shoot, and a panel Q&A. INSPIRATION The Opening Show on Saturday night is ‘Backstage, by Snowden Hill.’ The exclusive cocktail event will feature styles from international runway shows in NY, Milan, London and Paris from designers such as Alexander McQueen, Prada and Louis Vuitton. Hill will share inspiration and discuss technical insights.

Sunday night’s Gala shows are the L’Oreal Creative Transmission Show, and the Emerging Talent Show. The L’Oreal Creative Transmission show will see L’Oreal Professionel ambassadors showcase the latest in progressive hair trends, in a collection dramatically titled ‘Ature Soi - the Parisian Alter Ego’. The Emerging Talent Show celebrates a new generation of hairdressers from all around the country with a series of platform collections designed to excite.

Ticket information is online now at the Hair X 2012 website.

To book phone Sara Allsop (027 255 4805) email sara@hairx.co.nz PARTICIPATING SALONS Adoux Bettjemans Blaze Buoy Dharma French Revolver Louise Pilkington Me Morgan and Morgan Raven Stephen Marr Sutherland Todd Vada Venom PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING PHYSIOTHERAPIST ‘KNEEDS’ YOUR HELP WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS RESEARCH If you’re aged 45-80 with Osteoarthritis of the knee, physiotherapist and AUT masters student Brydie Harris wants to hear from you!

As part of a research team led by AUT University’s Professor Peter McNair and Associate Professor Duncan Reid, Brydie is currently completing a masters thesis investigating the difference in cardiovascular fitness in individuals with knee Osteoarthritis and age and gender matched healthy individuals.

If you’re between 45 and 80 years of age; have Osteoarthritis of the knee and would like to participate in the study please contact Brydie Harris, Senior Physiotherapist, at SHORE PHYSIOTHERAPY on T: 09 489 7573, M: 027 278 7408 or email: info@shorephysiotherapy.co.nz. She is also keen to hear from people aged 45 to 80 that don’t have Osteoarthritis of the knee and are otherwise fit and well.

In New Zealand it’s estimated that 16.2% of the population over the age of 15 years will be living with some form of arthritis. The economic cost of arthritis in New Zealand is estimated at $2.35 billion; specific health sector costs accounted for $563.5 million with hip and knee arthritis accounting for a 70% share of that.

Osteoarthritis is a widespread and debilitating condition, says Brydie. “It’s typically characterised by pain, joint stiffness and joint inflammation and is often associated with significant physical disability.”

“Osteoarthritis of the knee is a disease process associated with cartilage damage, bone thickening and new bone growth. It is common in the aging population and is often associated with reduced activity levels and reduced cardiovascular fitness. This is thought to contribute to a number of other health related problems.”

The study will involve two tests performed using a stationary exercise bike. These tests are standardised clinical and laboratory tests used to measure cardiovascular fitness.

Brydie is also interested in how accurately a standard clinical fitness test predicts cardiovascular capacity in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

“There has already been considerable research in advocating exercise based treatment in the conservative management of Osteoarthritis. Results indicate reduced pain levels, increased strength and flexibility, reduced joint stiffness and improved overall function. There is limited research in the area of cardiovascular fitness and Osteoarthritis. If cardiovascular fitness is to be improved in people with Osteoarthritis appropriate assessment tests are required. “

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ANY PAGE IN PONSONBY NEWS IS A GOOD PLACE TO BE SEEN

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

GIVE YOUR MUM A TUG ON HER HEART THIS MOTHERS DAY...

AT ON2CANVAS WE ARE NOW PUTTING PICTURES INTO PENDANTS, WE call them... heartstrings. Your image is printed onto matt archival paper and glued beneath a glass dome to the bronze base. Choose an oval (plain or ornate) or a round (with a lovely tree engraving on the back) pendant. The string can be 60cm or 90cm in length.

Email or post us a photo and we will create a special heartstring for you. PN ON 2 CANVAS, 20 Albany Road T: 09 376 8065 www.on2canvas.co.nz

MIND POWER EXPERT IN AUCKLAND Robin Banks grew up in an impoverished area of Johannesburg, South Africa and he has risen to be a world renown speaker. He is the protege of John Kehoe who wrote the bestselling book Mind Power into the 21st Century. Robin Banks is back in Auckland after last years Mind Power series sold out.

Robin’s mantra is you can’t always choose what’s going to happen, you can always choose how you respond!

“Whether positive or negative, conscious or subconscious; your thoughts are consistently programming your daily life,” he says.

Through the Mind Power series you will learn techniques to consciously choose your thoughts, to let go of your past and begin creating a powerful future... and we could all do with that!

Robin’s energy, enthusiasm, passion and fun are certainly infectious. To see him in person you may attend a FREE event at SkyCity on 9 and 10 May. Robin is also running his amazing Mind Power series again where he will teach you the skills to weed out the negatives and consciously create a positive future. The course is lots of fun and you’ll find laughter top of the list when sharing time with Robin. You will also get to meet lots of interesting people.

Robin says he loves coming to New Zealand and he always stays in the Ponsonby area. What could be better than that?

For more information on any of the events go to www.bitly.com/RobinBanks

94 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

WE LOVE SPA AYURDA Nina and Kim, the florists of NINA & CO (and last month’s cover stars) have just spent a blissful afternoon at Spa Ayurda on Ponsonby Road with the vouchers gifted them last month.

As Nina says, “The spa is quite alternative and holistic and it really works as a healing centre! Our faces both felt rejuvenated, and even Stuart, my husband commented on my lovely glow that evening.”

As Nina continues, “The therapists who gave us treatments were so gentle and soft and made us both feel very special. This is unlike any spa, we’ve ever been to. We joked amongst ourselves and said how easy it would be to get addicted to having a monthly treatment.

Upon leaving, I purchased some of their Ayurda products – an eye cream and a face scrub… so thanks Martin, we love you for thinking of us, it really made our Friday!”

Kim says, “I’m not usually a great fan of facials but loved the smells in the spa which made me feel very calm, which is unusual for a Friday! Within the first 20 minutes all my cares floated away and my skin looked so different… radiant and beautiful. PN Nina competed her treatment with a hand massage, whilst her business partner Kim enjoyed a foot massage. www.spaayurda.co.nz

SPA AYURDA’S 24 CARAT GOLD FACIAL – MUM WILL LOVE IT! Have you experienced Spa Ayurda’s 24 Carat Gold Facial yet?

The Ayurda 24ct Gold facial is our all-natural yet highly effective anti-ageing facial using our Ayurda 24ct Gold Leaf Serum.

The Ayurda Gold Facial is our most luxurious and pampering facial on offer and is a treat Mum will really appreciate!

The experience begins with personalised skin analysis then let all tension and worries melt away with a divine foot soak. Followed by a customised facial using our Ayurda 24 Ct Gold Serum to rejuvenate the skin and stimulate circulation thereby reducing fine lines and preventing premature ageing.

It is followed with a moisturising protein pack as well as marma point massage to hydrate, tone and lift the skin giving it a long lasting glow. Finishing with blissful head massage and relaxing hand and foot massage Mum will leave feeling and looking rejuvenated and completely relaxed!

SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF RECEIVING REGULAR SPA AYURDA GOLD FACIALS ARE: • Revitalises and rejuvenates skin from the inside out • Improves blood circulation and lymphatic drainage • Facilitates the removal of toxins and wastes from the skin pores • Enhances skin elasticity • Accelerates cell renewal and tissue healing • Reverses oxidation damage Spa Ayurda’s 24ct Gold Facial is one not to miss! Book in for you and mum to enjoy this experience together. PN SPA AYURDA, 213 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0007 www.spaayurda.co.nz

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DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+

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HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY

HEAVEN ON EARTH: CHINTAMANI

BY THE TIME YOU READ THIS I’LL HAVE BID the beautiful island of Bali goodbye, but after discovering a very special new resort run by a wonderful ex-Ponsonby local, you can be sure that I’m already dreaming of coming back.

I’ve made a point of making my way to a spa and/or wellness retreat on a regular basis if I can over the past ten years, and have been lucky enough to experience the likes of Thailand’s Chiva Som, the Evason Hideaway at Zighy Bay in Oman and Queensland’s Gwinganna, amongst other beautiful properties. The chance to relax, re-focus and rejuvenate that these kind of spots offer are pretty much second to none, so when I had the opportunity to visit the fabulous Chintamani Bali Retreat & Spa I was on the plane before you could say “Eat, Spa, Swim”!

Just opened in April, Chintamani is set on a hectare of landscaped hillside gardens, alongside the Laing River Valley on the west coast of Bali, 30 minutes from Ubud and 45 minutes from Seminyak. It’s the brainchild of ex-barrister – and Ponsonby resident -Wendy Matthews, whose vision was to combine the pleasures of a luxury resort with a carefully planned wellbeing program. There are only six bales - or villas - catering to a maximum 12 women, and the all-inclusive, week-long packages offer daily scheduled activities like yoga, meditation and spa treatments, but guests set their own agenda and there’s always time for a trip round the shops or a gin by the pool!

Self-improvement, perfecting the art of doing nothing or a clever combination of the two - the choice is all yours, and the venue purpose-built for one hell of a relaxing time.

Wendy has been coming to Bali on and off for 15-20 years and tells me that it has been “a long love affair - the gorgeous food, the fabulous climate, the lovely people all combine to make it a fantastic place to spend time in. It’s hard to put a finger on what exactly it is that makes people keep coming back for more but once you’ve come, you’ll know.”

A long time practitioner of regular meditation, Wendy says that taking time out to sit in silence helped in her previously life as a barrister tremendously, “and I have an active mind so taking the time to ‘still the mind’ had amazing benefits and helped keep me centred. Yoga is my favourite way to ‘get physical’, and really helps with the mind body spirit balance too.” She and her wonderful partner have had the privilege of staying in some wonderful places in Bali over the last few years, “although wherever we’ve stayed we could always think of something that could have been improved.

Chintamani is a combination of all the best elements of those. Also, and I’ll admit to this, I am a bit fussy and like ‘nice’ things, so I’ve tried to put all those ideas together and that is Chintamani.”

The pair and now lucky enough to call Bali home for eight months a year, heading home during the rainy season, which just happens to happily coincide with the New Zealand summer.

Sitting down to a meal of chicken larb and mahi mahi with red curry sauce one warm evening at Chintamani and contemplating a day ahead that includes a coconut body scrub, aromatherapy massage and yoga, I can’t help but come back to one of Wendy’s previous statements again and again. “It’s hard to put a finger on what exactly it is that makes people keep coming back for more but once you’ve come, you’ll know.” I think I’ve just had my own revelation, and feel all the better for it. (HELENE RAVLICH)

Set amidst sprawling tropical gardens, lush paddy fields and lotus ponds, Chintamani even has its own purpose built yoga centre, a beautiful swimming pool (that I found it hard to tear myself away from) and a smaller pool set in a private courtyard alongside an authentic Balinese Rice Barn. To say the place is heaven on earth would be an understatement – and the feeling of serenity that washes over you the minute you cross its threshold truly has to be experienced to be believed.

96 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

CLARE CALDWELL ADAPTING TO CHANGE IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES PEOPLE FACE today, individually and collectively. Changes can occur in areas such as health and longevity, financial security, career paths, relationships – the list goes on!

As the pace and quality of life in our world twists and turns, regresses and accelerates, many people are thrust out of their comfort zones and confronted with having to discover new and previously shuttered aspects of who they are. These archaeological digs into deeper resource centres often reveal both strengths and insecurities that have been lying dormant, cobwebbed and inactive for a long time.

Finding ways through these changes often requires people to find the courage to clear away old entrenched and often dysfunctional identities and begin to reinvent themselves. This can necessitate a need for strategies and modalities, often new and unfamiliar, to hold and express these emerging aspects safely.

One such modality that I believe can help make sense of what the world is throwing at us, and our reactions to it all, is the gentle and revelatory capacity of art therapy. Art dredges through our subconscious inner landscapes, throwing up images loaded with emotions and attitudes we are often unaware we are holding, or are unable to clarify or verbalise.

THE ART OF LIVING

So often family members have said to me: “I don’t know what to say.” or “I don’t know how to be with so and so any more” and resort to platitudes that can further isolate everyone from each other. A family group doing art therapy together can have a “conversation” about what they can’t express to one another in words. This can be very reassuring, releasing and healing for everyone and help form a “bridge” across difficult family boundaries.

And finally, on a lighter note – I am not exempt from this process of change, metamorphosis and reinvention of self with all its unforeseen challenges – both exciting and scary!!... Watch this space! PN CLARE (CLAUDIE) CALDWELL is a Creative Arts Therapist who runs a small private practice from home. She is Voluntary Team Leader of Creative Therapies at Mercy Hospice Auckland, College Hill where she has worked for the last ten years. She is also a Freelance Artist.

Enquiries: T: 09 836 3618; M: 021 293 3171; E:clare.e.caldwell@gmail.com

Choosing the vehicle of art therapy, not over thinking what is being expressed visually, then working together with the art therapist can help to make sense of what is going on for us on a deep and often confusing level.

photography: Jo Barrett

Utilising art therapy in hospice care over many years has also enabled me to observe how profound and insightful it is as a modality. It is very humbling to work alongside people as they struggle to make sense of the enormous changes that dealing with a life-limiting illness brings, not only for themselves, but sometimes within the whole family dynamic. By gently and respectfully holding the ground as they begin to reveal themselves to themselves through what is often an unfamiliar vehicle – art as a therapy – I become the confidant and guide through uncharted territory.

GOTCHA! The papps were out in force last month at the MISTER Menswear launch at MARVEL... one Gent clearly did not want his photo taken, but Jo Barrett quickly snapped him and shouted, “GOTCHA Dean!”

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DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+

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JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH

A FEW THOUGHTS ON ARTHRITIS

Typically, however, rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive illness that has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.

IN A CAFÉ RECENTLY I OVERHEARD A MAN TALKING ABOUT THE SIDE EFFECTS of medication he was taking for arthritis.

We have all heard of the Cox 2 inhibitor non-steroidal (NSAIDS) anti-inflammatory drugs and the well-publicised research that linked them with heart attacks and strokes.

We are also familiar with Aspirin and the potential for serious gastric bleeding. When it comes to joint problems my own experience and that of many who have tried nutritional interventions is that this should be the first port of call. As I see it, only when we set out to correct and eliminate the underlying causes and abnormal conditions which have allowed the disease to manifest can we have any chance of improving the situation.

Sorry but there are no half measures. There has to be real action and based on my experience, what is achieved is likely to be determined by the level of commitment.

Did you know that 1 in 6 New Zealanders suffer from arthritis (more females than males) and that this is expected to be 1 in 5 by 2020? Given the countless millions of dollars that are spent worldwide on research, one would think we would have some answers by now. The problem is that the bulk of research dollars are not spent on prevention and education but rather on the development of new drugs. Why? There’s no money in researching ways to prevent arthritis.

When you are told that there is no cure for arthritis what you are really being told is ‘we don’t have a drug that will cure arthritis’ so therefore there is no cure. My research and my own experience suggests that there is a lot we can do to help ourselves if we are willing to take responsibility for our own health instead of suffering in silence while we wait for the elusive magic bullet?

Broadly speaking there are two forms of arthritis (from Greek -Arthro – Joint itis –inflammation): Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is a protein composed of collagen that serves as a “cushion” between the bones of the joints. Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative arthritis commonly affecting the hands, feet, spine, and large weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees. We don’t just wake up one day with Osteoarthritis, it may take several decades for it to become severe enough to warrant medical attention. As with other chronic degenerative diseases, arthritis is a process.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a very destructive form of arthritis and it can cause crippling and deformation at an early age. It’s common in people under 40 and children. Rheumatoid arthritis is considered to be an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, the tissues around the joints as well as other organs in the body. While rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic illness, meaning it can last for years, patients may experience long periods without symptoms.

Hippocrates said 2,500 years ago ‘All disease begins in the gut’ so this is where I started when I was heading for a hip replacement 12 years ago. I switched to a plant based diet (at least 80%) and I removed all gluten, dairy, caffeine, alcohol and sugar (and other processed foods) from my diet. I reduced my consumption of animal protein very significantly and my daily hydration was achieved with plenty of pure filtered water. I bought a commercial grade vegetable juicer and made a wonderful cocktail of juices every day (my focus was on green vegetables). The response from my body was almost immediate. Supplements I embraced were Vitamin C (essential for the production of cartilage) Curcumin and high potency Fish Oil (nature’s most powerful natural anti-inflammatories) and B Vitamins. The above is more focused on Osteoarthritis but I would follow a similar path if I had Rheumatoid Arthritis (although I would focus much more on the gut and include infrared sauna in my protocol).

I kept a diary and recorded the way I felt each day. Even tiny improvements provided huge motivation. Give it your very best shot and let me know how you get on. Addressing the causes makes a lot more sense to me than simply treating the symptoms. Maybe one day we will see the formation of ‘The Arthritis Prevention Society’. (JOHN APPLETON) PN APPLETON ASSOCIATES, T: 09 489 9362 john@johnappleton.co.nz www.johnappleton.co.nz

LATE NIGHT APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR BUSY PEOPLE William Taylor is the Owner of W.T Body Therapy and is a fully qualified Massage Therapist. William founded the business in order to offer what he believes is essential in Body Therapy – personalised Massage treatment.

W.T Body Therapy focuses on personalised treatment to suit you as an individual, whether you have a recent injury, long-term injury, or you are just in need of regular Massage maintenance. William will ensure your best interests are at heart and will use his skills and knowledge to get the best results.

William focuses on a detailed and thorough approach and has developed a unique client intake process, with testing involved to ensure correct and safe treatment is provided, with regular re-testing thereafter to ensure that we are achieving the goals and getting the results you require.

William completed his studies at Wellpark College of Natural Therapies, graduating with a Certificate of Relaxation Massage and a Diploma of Therapeutic Massage and Remedial Therapies. William is currently working towards a Bachelor of Health Science in Acupuncture.

William has noticed that most people in our busy city are unable to achieve balance from living fast paced and stressful lives. This lifestyle takes its toll mentally and physically and to prevent an inevitable crash and burn, William is now offering late night appointments (8pm till late, Tuesday and Thursday) for those without enough time in their day. Book an appointment today. PN W.T BODY THERAPY, Level 1, 334 Ponsonby Road (alongside Return to Form in Three Lamps) T: 022 487 3288 william@wtbodytherapy.co.nz www.wtbodytherapy.co.nz.

98 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

RETURN TO FORM WELCOMES TO THE TEAM...

MEG LOGAN Holistic massage therapist Meg focuses on encouraging both the body and mind as a whole to maintain a natural balance, using the techniques of therapeutic breathing, aromatherapy, massage, cognitive therapies and reflexology.

Her qualifications in remedial massage started with the original New Zealand College of Massage in 1989, and at Wellpark College in 1990. Meg combines this with a diploma in health psychology to offer the client a total approach to well-being.

NELLIE PIGOT Nutritionist/naturopath Nellie Pigot is a UK trained nutritionist and naturopath and has been practising since 1999. She has worked as the nutritionist for a major London investment bank and as a naturopath in an integrated practice working alongside medical GPs. Consequently Nellie is very experienced in interpreting diagnostic medical tests.

Her areas of expertise are treating digestive disorders, food allergies and intolerance, women’s health, optimising thyroid function. She works on increasing energy levels through manageable dietary and lifestyle changes with the help of short term vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements. PN

To benefit from a 30% discount for the month of May with either of these therapists, call now to book.

T: 09 551 4460 or email info@returntoform.com

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DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+

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PLANET AYURVEDA: ASK DOCTOR AJIT

Q: A:

I enjoy reading your column each month but am reluctant to follow too much of your advice myself as I find Indian food far too spicy. What can I do? (D.Norman, Herne Bay)

While it is true that many Ayurvedic recipes use Indian ingredients, it would be wrong to think that you only have to eat Indian food to stay healthy. Ayurveda gives us an understanding of the role digestion and nutrition play in creating a healthy life and an awareness of how food can be used as a medicine to treat illness.

This awareness can be applied to all foods, not just Indian cuisine.

Ayurveda, being the natural medicine of India, has an intimate knowledge of the dietary and health benefits of the fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices of the sub-continent but as it has grown outside its homeland it has incorporated many other foods into its dietary recommendations. However, what is true is that Ayurveda considers many of the heavily processed foods in our Western diet to be detrimental to our digestion and good health.

Unlike modern nutritionists, Ayurveda does not classify foods by their chemical components. Instead, food is traditionally classified by its qualities and according to its affect on the body and mind. Broadly, it classifies food according to three primary qualities or Gunas: • Sattva (the quality of light and wholeness) promotes clarity and calmness of mind and includes most fruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables, whole grains, honey, pure water and non-homogenised milk • Rajas (the quality of action and passion) promotes activity and includes most spicy foods, stimulants like coffee and tea, eggs, garlic, onion, red meat, fish and chocolate. Rajasic food should be avoided by those whose aim is peace of mind but will benefit people with an active lifestyle.

• Tamas (the quality of darkness and inertia) induces heaviness in the body and dullness in the mind. It includes alcohol, as well as foods that are heavily processed, tinned, pre-cooked, stale or overripe.

cell in our body. However, if our digestive fire is weak, then the food we eat is not sufficiently broken down or “cooked”. This means that not only are the cells unable to access the nutrition they require for healthy metabolism but this un-digestible food is considered a waste product and can clog the circulatory system. This un-digestible food is called Ama in Ayurveda and is considered one of the contributory factors in the disease process.

Unfortunately many of our dietary habits do not support good digestion and can in fact impede the stomach’s ability to “cook” the food properly eg.

• Fruit and yogurt (heaviness of yogurt will impede digestion of fruit) • Fruit smoothies (both are cooling but milk is laxative and melon is diuretic) • Bacon and eggs (both are protein and heating but will take different times to digest) • Peanut butter and jam (heaviness of peanuts will clog channels and impede digestion) • Strawberry and cream (heaviness of cream will impede digestion of fruit) • Eggs Benedict (sour taste of sauce will disrupt digestion of protein) • Fish and chips (coldness of potato will dampen and impede digestion) • Cereal and cold milk (heaviness of milk will impede digestion of cereal) To support the digestive process, Ayurveda recommends cooking with herbs and spices like ginger, onions, garlic and pepper that will provide some “heat” to the metabolic process (notice I haven’t included that ubiquitous heating agent chilli as it was only introduced by the Portuguese in the 15th century so is a recent addition to the Indian spice box). Other spices like coriander and fennel can be used to “cool” the digestive fire. This is why Ayurveda considers food to be a medicine. With the judicious use of herbs and spices in the cooking process we can help support and balance digestion and ensure that the body receives the nourishment it needs.

There is an old saying in Ayurveda, “When the diet is wrong, medicine is of no use.

When the diet is correct, medicine is of no need.” If we are eating a balanced diet and not overtaxing our digestive system then we can eat whatever we choose in the knowledge that we giving the body the nourishment it requires to function in a healthy and balanced state. (DR AJIT)

Ayurveda encourages the consumption of sattvic foods, not only because they promote wholeness of body and mind but because they are light and easy to digest. Which bring us to another important aspect of Ayurvedic nutrition; digestion.

Dr. Ajit is currently offering Ayurvedic Cooking Classes at his clinic in Newmarket. See www.planetayurveda.co.nz for details. PN

Ayurveda recognizes the importance of good digestion as it is through this metabolic process that the food we eat is transformed into life giving nourishment for every

PLANET AYURVEDA, 41 Gillies Avenue T: 09 522 5390 www.planetayurveda.co.nz

100 PONSONBY NEWS+ May 2012

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

PONSONBY BREATHES EASY Area bucks national asthma trend.

Shocking statistics were once again flagged during Asthma Awareness Week (30 April to 6 May). Asthma is the leading cause of hospital admissions for New Zealanders.

One in six adults and worse, one in four children suffer from this breathing disorder according to recent Asthma Foundation figures.

Ponsonby, however, can proudly claim to be bucking that trend. Thanks must go to Ponsonby News for helping us get the message out and to firm support from local health practitioners. As attested by seven studies worldwide (including two in New Zealand) enlightened locals have discovered the effectiveness of breathing retraining in controlling asthma. The debilitating disorder can be managed with less dependency on drugs by focusing on good breathing techniques, especially nasal and diaphragmatic breathing, as taught by the Buteyko Breathing Clinic.

Over 200 adults and children with asthma from the Grey Lynn, Ponsonby, Westmere and Bays area have attended the clinic. Our records show that they are managing their asthma with less need for asthma medication. In many cases they are off medication completely. ‘Buteyko has been fantastic, offering my son freedom to breathe freely for the first time in his life.’ says local Kristen Warner.

We credit our success, in large part, to the strong support and referrals from local health practitioners. GP Helen Smith refers many of her asthma patients, recognising the potential for controlling asthma and reducing dependence on medication. GPs Phyllida Cotton-Barker, Susie Moller, and Helen and Nicky Baillie also regularly refer their patients. Well-known Ponsonby health professionals Alex Rodwell, Dawn Lucia and Den Illing also have a long association with our clinic.

A referral from your doctor is not necessary, however it is essential to see your GP if you are needing your reliever medication daily.

HELP WITH ASTHMA • Try to breathe through your nose, even when exercising • Practise diaphragmatic (belly) breathing • Reduce consumption of dairy products • Avoid foods and drinks with added sugar • Sleep on your left side • Maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables • Include fish oils in your diet

Contact Glenn White, Director of the Buteyko Breathing Clinic if you, or someone you know would like to learn how to control asthma the natural way.

BUTEYKO BREATHING CLINIC, 20 Arthur Street T: 09 360 6291 PN www.buteykobreathing.co.nz

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DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+

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HELENE RAVLICH: NATURAL BEAUTY BB CREAMS AND TINTED MOISTURISERS – THE BEST, AND WHY THE BUZZ? THE FIRST TIME I SAW A FELLOW BEAUTY EDITOR sporting a BB cream – the biggest buzz in beauty right now - I have to say that I was a little horrified. It had given her a a ghostly appearance, and looked like a thick formula that needed several hours’ worth of working in. It certainly didn’t look like the “wonder” product that it had been made out to be, and I began to wonder if BB in fact stood for “beauty blunder”. The idea of a BB cream was right up my alley – a multitasker that gave a natural but still flawless finish – but in practice this one looked quite the opposite.

The BB – AKA Blemish Balm - Cream craze began in Korea but has since hit Japan, China and the rest of the world over the past twelve months. BB Cream has been hailed as pretty much the end all of foundation, concealer, moisturiser, etc. as it’s a combined product that eliminates many products from your daily makeup routine, and not only simplifies foundation but also offers key ingredients that we all look for in makeup and skincare.

They aren’t all created equal though, and I’ve viewed a lot of them with more than a little skepticism since my initial encounter. You can see why everyone is so excited about BB Creams, but they are not without their flaws.

This put me off wanting to try one myself… that is until now. The moment that changed my mind was being sent Smashbox’s version - simply called Camera Ready BB Cream – which is pretty damn impressive. It doesn’t settle into fine lines or pores and is loaded with peptides, also banishing shine without giving your skin a chalky finish.

The ultimate test was when I wore it through a spin class at Grey Lynn’s Re:ab, from which I emerged looking amazingly un-shiny – if a little sweaty from the neck down!

If oiliness is your issue or humidity your clime, then I really recommend this as a great everyday cover.

If you’re not ready to commit to a BB Cream then there is always the option of sporting its close cousin – the tinted moisturiser. Like the former not all are created equal, but

there are some amazing examples out there by some of my favourite brands.

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to spend a morning with New York-based NARS artist Janice Daoud at Mecca Cosmetica, and what a wonderful morning it was! Janice has been with the company for five years, and in that time has racked up some pretty glamorous time in the trenches working behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week on shows like Thakoon, Marc Jacobs and Rodarte, and most recently at Paris Couture Week and backstage at the Oscars.

The first thing she talked about was NARS’ first tinted moisturiser called Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser.

Francois Nars has always said that skin should shine through your makeup, and this beauty is all about beautiful, clean skin. “Your skin – almost bare, but better”, is its tagline, which sounds right up my alley. The advanced, oil-free formula provides a translucent veil of colour and sun protection while also helping to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots in just four weeks – impressive stuff. Infused with lush, naturally derived botanicals to immediately help thirsty skin feel hydrated, its ingredients include Kopara from French Polynesia and mineral rich seawater to “revive and re-mineralize skin for a softer, smoother, and brighter natural glow”.

Janice told me for subtle coverage, “always emulsify it in your hand before blending it along cheekbones, then swipe a bit down the nose and along the top of the forehead.

This will even tone while keeping things light and sheer.” She clearly stands by its ability to make you look pretty damn fabulous, even using it on the likes of Rose Byrne and Gwyneth Paltrow in place of foundation at the Oscars. It is best when pressed in as opposed to rubbed, and it’s also buildable, which is rare for a tinted moisturizer.

So there you have it – two new releases that are well worth a try, especially if you’re in the market to ditch that foundation (HELENE RAVLICH) PN

SLICED... just a place for a healthy smoothie on Richmond Road.

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LANI LOPEZ: ON HEALTH

WINTER WELLNESS THIS BEAUTIFULLY WARM AUTUMN IS A GREAT START FOR A WINTER OF wellness. This is the concept to grasp; Winter Wellness. Once the cold kicks in, winter’s ills and chills come too. It is only a matter of time until our immune system is under attack, so stop thinking illness and plan for wellbeing. Hopefully from last month’s column you’ve made progress on the foundation of immunity, Sleep. Now to fuel the fires of our ever-vigilant immune system.

EDIBLE IMMUNITY Comfort food is a one of winters’ compensations, choose foods that comfort our immunity. Fill up on vegetables, especially green leafy veges, fruits, lean meats and good carbohydrates especially wholegrains and kumara. Legumes are potent immune food and ideal for slow cooked stew, casserole and curry. Load your dishes up with coriander, ginger, turmeric and garlic. Avoid refined sugar, it can impair the function of virus-killing white blood cells. How can a sweet tooth stay well and satisfied? Planning is key.

Make honey and fruit your primary source of sweetness. Think fruit smoothies and hot drinks dripping-honey. Get a range of honey in your pantry and find the one you like. My personal favourite honey is from the lady bee-keepers at Kelmarna Gardens.

They sell at Grey Lynn Farmers Market most weekends. When baking (yummy almond cookies) I use a natural sweetener called Stevia, available at health-stores.

I always keep some dark (85% cacao) chocolate on hand just in case. It’s low on refined sugar and a healthy reward for the sweet addicted that will prevent craving driven binges on bad sugar. Cultured yoghurt, our digestive tract is lined with antibody producing immune cells so keep them healthy. Make a live, probiotic-rich yoghurt a regular choice to help them flourish. This is especially important after a course of antibiotics which strip out healthy gut flora.

AVOIDABLE ERRORS Stress impairs immunity. When you’re under pressure, don’t stress, take action; Stop, breathe and relax. Even a minute breathing deeply a day is a powerful preventive health measure.

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Meditation is even better, I recommend the Tuesday classes taken by Kelsang Kyobpa at 1A Pompallier Terrace. The best $12 and two-hour investment you can make to conquer stress. Smoking, every addicted smoker I know is constantly waiting for the impetus to quit. Why wait for a cold or flu to prompt you?

Caffeine too is an immune killer. Cut back. Not on cafe visits, just on caffeine. Try some of those delicious herbal teas, your caffeine kick isn’t worth the cost of a week’s cold or flu. I didn’t say you have to go cold turkey, just ease back on caffeine and certainly cut-out sugary, caffeinated soft drinks.

HEALTHFUL HELPERS Winter is a good time to supplement, some to consider are: Olive Olive leaf extract, by far my favourite immune booster and cold/flu fighter. I first formulated with olive leaf extract almost 14 years ago and it is the heart of my own OLE-Up immune tonic.

Vitamin C is important, keep up every dietary opportunity for intake, with enriched juices, all the citrus you can eat, regular lemon drinks and a low cost Vitamin C tablet is worthwhile.

Zinc and Selenium are a winter requirement, not easy to get all we need in our diet so look for these in a multi-vitamin these too can be found affordably in every health-store or pharmacy.

Lastly for as long as we have this lovely autumn, take advantage of it. Get outside into this golden sunlight and get your free dose of Vitamin D at every opportunity. Expose all the skin you can for at least 15 minutes to lift your mood and boost your immunity.

And yes, sitting at a sunny table outside your favourite cafe or sunny garden counts.

So the final key to boosting immunity this autumn is exercise. Repeated research shows a walk, run, ride, weight, yoga, pilates are powerful stimulants for our immune system. Don’t wait to get run-down, act now to get your immune system up and running for a winter of wellness. (LANI LOPEZ) www.lanilopez.com LANI LOPEZ Adv. Dip Nat, BHSc. founder of lanilopez.com is our favourite naturopath.

Discuss health with her at facebook.com/lanilopezcom PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

‘DAVE GALLAHER: THE ORIGINAL ALL BLACK CAPTAIN by Matt Elliott Dave Gallaher is often regarded as the ‘original’ All Black captain, and almost a century after his death his name is still widely recognised in New Zealand. His memory lives on in the Gallaher Shield, awarded annually to the championship-winning club team of the Auckland Rugby Union, and the Gallaher Cup contested between the All Blacks and France.

Born in Ramelton, Ireland, in 1873, Gallaher, along with his parents and siblings, emigrated to New Zealand in 1878, originally settling in Katikati. He later moved to Auckland and was chosen for the Auckland provincial football team, starting one of New Zealand’s most successful rugby careers as a player, then later selector and coach. However, there is one act for which Gallaher is most famous and revered: his captaining of the 1905 All Blacks team - the Originals - the first New Zealand national rugby team to tour the United Kingdom and North America.

In his book, author Matt Elliott argues that the team’s success was largely due to the leadership and planning of its captain. Rugby historians point to Gallaher as the template for All Black captains: tough, uncompromising, letting his deeds on the field do the talking, and having an astute mind for the way the game was played. And it is this leadership that drove the team to victory in all but one of the 35 games played on what is still considered the most important tour undertaken by the All Blacks to date.

Off the field Gallaher embodied another template, that of a dutiful countryman. Like many of his rugby mates, his sense of loyalty to his country and the Empire meant, at the age of 42 and already a veteran of the Boer War, he chose to serve again in the ‘war to end all wars’. Alongside so many other brave men, Dave Gallaher lost his life on the muddy fields of Flanders on 4 October 1917. In a nation obsessed with rugby, where boys and men dream of donning the black shirt, in which every All Black is celebrated in their own right, one man stands out as a legend: Dave Gallaher.

BREATHE, RELAX AND LET GO. YOGA AT JUST BE IMAGINE EVERY CARE GONE AND YOUR SPIRIT FREE! IMAGINE YOUR entire body smiling – from cell level to soul level. Imagine the inner joy reflected in your outer happiness. Imagine coming alive from your very core. Fill your life with goodness and positivity; connect to the art of transformation – Yoga.

Yoga lets you be – it works with your synergies. Yogi Gabrielle is talented, well qualified and experienced in assisting you on your journey to wellness and radiant health. Her infectious smile and enthusiasm, coupled with her innate compassion, is like a lighthouse.

Yoga heals and nurtures while a teacher facilitates – issues like fatigue, mobility, mind flexibility and self esteem as well as therapeutic benefits for more serious issues like cancer, hypertension and disorders of the immune, nervous and endocrine systems – all find a healing place in the realm of Yoga.

Gabrielle has a love for Yoga and believes every person has immense untapped potential with which they can empower themselves. One simply needs awareness.

She offers a light, nurturing environment for you to pace yourself and experience an Integrated Yoga class.

So set out on this simple and fulfilling journey of self transformation NOW because now is what you have and watch everything fall into place. When you meet Gabrielle she is fun, unpretentious and straight forward and that’s the attitude she likes to bring to her classes and therapy sessions in her cozy home based studio in Grey Lynn. PN YOGA, 17 Cockburn Street M: 021 321 081

While this book is the story of Dave Gallaher, All Black captain and loyal countryman, it also offers an insight into a rugby world of yesteryear. A world where a try was worth three points; where teams travelled for days or even weeks to get to their next match; where some players undertook significant financial hardship to partake in the strict amateur game they truly loved. This is the story of a national game that was forever changed by one great captain.

Matt Elliott is author of the bestselling Billy T: The Life and Times of Billy T James and co-author of the critically acclaimed Nice Day For a War. Here, Matt combines his diligence and compassion as a biographer with his lifelong passion for rugby and interest in players of the past. Incidentally, a great-grandfather of Matt’s was also a Ponsonby resident, part of the sporting and social scene, including being a fellow member of the same Druid’s lodge as Gallaher. PN Published by HarperCollins Publishers in June 2012 Paperback RRP $39.99

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DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE (NEAR HAMILTON!) Anyone who knows me, and I mean, knows me, will attest to the fact that I was not born with the ‘fitness’ gene. Nothing about keeping fit, as in rigourous exercise appeals to me, I would much rather be gathered around with a group of friends eating glorious food, drinking wonderful wine and catching up, but I do at least try.

I love TV, and am not ashamed to say it. So many people I know say they rarely watch television, but I am a self confessed couch potato, that was, until I watched ‘The Chawners” on TV1, at 8.30 on Thursday night. Rarely do people or TV programmes outrage me as much as watching this. The Chawners are an English family, in fact they have been described as the ‘biggest family in Britain’, in terms of their weight.

You have Mamma Chawner who disgusts me, Papa Chawner who is whipped, and the two teenage daughters who are desperately trying to get out of the grip of being brought up in a family that has no idea about what is, and what is not good for you in terms of food.

This is the second series, and the producers have sent one of the daughters away to Texas, to a boot camp, to try and help her lose weight. Both daughters I feel immensely sorry for, as it has been ingrained in their very DNA that is does not matter what you eat, or in what quantities, which is proving detrimental not only to their health, but to their future.

Last series they all had personal trainers and dieticians, and complained that none of them had lost any weight, so this time they have been given a second chance.

The daughter sent to Texas has an incredible loyalty to the family, which quite frankly I would have cut loose as soon as I could walk, as they should come with a Government Health Warning.

The whole family is nutritionally bankrupt. The show revolves around their small living room which they share with their two dogs, parrot, hamster and rabbit. Yes, all living in a small room in which the windows are never opened. The father has health problems (go figure) and neither parent work but sit on the couch all day and eat non stop.

Chips, fries, pizza, you name it, they eat it, without ever moving from the couch. The eldest daughter returned from boot camp in Texas for Christmas, having lost two stone, and looked so much better for it. Once she got inside the house, she stated that she wanted to make a Christmas dinner that was healthy.

The mother, who I feel should honestly be locked up for child abuse, moans repeatedly that she ‘wants a mince tart and stuffing and other Xmas goodies’, whilst the daughter cries and begs for her to watch her food intake, as she is going to die. The daughter lifts the trouser leg of her mothers track suit pants to reveal legs inflamed and swollen from not ever moving.

The younger daughter wants to be a hairdresser, so most weeks the mother’s hair is a different colour as she practices on her hair (in the lounge!). Apart from that, nothing changes. The mother admits she ‘does not know how to work the washing machine’ so has no reason to move.

I could not imagine my daughter crying and being so upset at the thought that I might die from abuse eating, and to see this woman say, repeatedly “I will do something” is heartbreaking, as she won’t, because she is lazy, living off handouts and does not need to try, even though so many people are trying to help. It seems a thankless task.

The two daughters can, hopefully, put the past behind them and move forward, but not until they move out from living with such a dysfunctional family.

Then recently in New Zealand we have a 30 year old, mother of eight, who dies from drinking 7.5 litres of fizzy drink, and smoking 30 cigarettes a day, every day. The family complains that the drink company should pay compensation for the upbringing of the children as they are all in care now, and that the drink should carry a Government Health Warning.

The father states they ate what they could, but money was tight, then surely they should have cut out the drink and cigarettes and concentrated on what was important.

But no, they now want to sue the fizzy drink company, probably for thousands of dollars, as the eight children are in care, no doubt, at the taxpayers expense, well, whose fault is that, ours?

It really does make you wonder, with the world now in an obesity crisis, which I can understand as I am overweight, where it will end. Nobody is shoving food or drink down your throat, it is your own choice, and if that choice is a bad one, then do not blame other people, it is your fault and yours alone. Get your backside off the couch and start exercising, no matter how little, as anything is better than ending up like a Chawner.

(DENISE L’ESTRANGE-CORBET) PN

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Coco and Jennifer Raoult for We’ar. Videographer Jen of www.clairobscur.co.nz wears the We’ar kulu wrap cardigan.

WE’AR, 29 Cross Street, Newton T: (09) 358 0030 www.wearyogaclothing.com

CORRECTION: PAGE 70, APRIL ISSUE PONSONBY NEWS Bringing out the big guns: Beauty Goes Hi Tech I would like to point out an inaccuracy in the information contained in the ‘Natural Beauty’ section of the April edition of the ‘Ponsonby News’.

In the second half of the article (top of Page 70), there is a section discussing fractional lasers in which the author states ‘Another hi tech modality that is gaining in popularity by the day is the use of Fraxel fractional lasers, which you can experience in Ponsonby at Caci clinic’.

Whilst the first part of this statement, that Faxel® fractional lasers are gaining in popularity, is true, the claim that this treatment can be experienced at Caci clinic is inaccurate as they do not have a ‘Fraxel®’ Laser system. Caci clinic have a fractional laser but it is not a ‘Fraxel®’.

A fractional laser is a laser the treats a fraction of the surface area of the skin, this is simply a type of laser application.

‘Fraxel®’ is a registered trademark of Solta Medical for the fractional laser system that they manufacture, over 45 patents have been issued on this unique fractional laser technology and Fraxel® has over 50 clinical studies, peer reviewed articles and trade publications.

Recently there has been a lot of coverage in the media, both in Australasia and globally, on the proven clinical results achieved with the Fraxel® laser and consumers have started asking for this treatment by name.

Fraxel® technology is different from other fractional lasers so it is important that people understand this and that consumers are not being mislead when deciding on what treatment to have as not all fractional lasers are the same.

Therefore the first thing that we need to determine is how the author came by this information, is it a result of her own research or has this information come from the Caci clinic? Could you please investigate this and let me know the outcome?

Secondly we would request that a retraction be printed in the next edition of Ponsonby News and that the www.fraxel.com website address be listed so that your readers can find accurate information about who are providers of the Fraxel® laser.

TRACEY FENNING, Business Development Manager, NZMS Medical Aesthetics, Mt Wellington, Auckland PN

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TONY DEY: THE HARD TOOTH – THE TRUTH ABOUT DENTISTS, DENTAL CARE AND TEETH In previous issues local dentist Dr Tony Dey covered the basics of oral health, this month he discusses advances in Cosmetic Dentistry.

THE HARD TOOTH – THE TRUTH ABOUT DENTISTS, DENTAL CARE AND TEETH Dr Tony Dey of Ponsonby Dentist brings us another episode of the “Hard Tooth”.

This month Dr Dey covers the hot topic of dental radiography. There has been significant media interest in a recently published article in the US Cancer Society journal ‘Cancer’ which proposes an ‘apparent’ link between dental x-rays and an increased risk of developing intracranial meningioma.

The Herald headline read “Dental x-rays linked to brain tumours” pretty scary stuff, but is it true? Quick answer - not really. Dental x-rays are an invaluable part of diagnosing dental problems from decay to guy disease. However they need to be used judiciously.

Back to the study that started this. Basically they took a whole lot of people who unfortunately had been diagnosed with intracranial meningiomas then compared them to a bunch of people with no diagnosis. Then asked them to recall how many dental

x-rays they had as a child. Now considering 75% of the people with meningiomas were over 50 years of age they were asking for some pretty old memories. Many of my patients in their 30s don’t remember having a filling done let alone how many and what sort of xrays they had.

The key message to my patients is that as dentists we are aware of the need to minimise exposure to xray radiation and this is a matter we take seriously. New xray technologies, not routinely available when many of those in the study received the xrays, allow us to reduce both the number of xrays we take and the amount (dose) of x-radiation given. Modern practices now use digital xray receptors that send the image direct to our computer screens. These computerised systems use only a fraction of the dose. I have just purchased the latest Planmecca intra oral system from Finland. The image quality is amazing, allowing quicker and more accurate diagnosis.

All dentists have received training in the safe use of dental xrays and comply with the National Radiation Laboratory Code of Safe Practice for the use of xrays in dentistry.

The basic principle adopted is that dental xrays are only taken when there is a specific clinical indication for them.

Dr Dey practices from his rooms at 114 Ponsonby Road above Santos and Longroom. www.ponsonbydentist.co.nz T: 09 361 2060 (DR TONY DEY) PN PONSONBY DENTIST, 114 Ponsonby Road, Level 1 – upstairs from The Long Room T: 09 361 2060 www.ponsonbydentist.co.nz

NATURALTECH FROM DAVINES, REBORN NATURALTECH - A PRODUCT AND TREATMENT SYSTEM SPECIFICALLY FORMULATED TO SOLVE THE MOST COMMON scalp and hair problems - has been painstakingly reformulated, repackaged and refined at Davines’ laboratories.

The Naturaltech system consists of seven different families; six for scalp and hair-specific problems such as alopecia or dandruff, and one, ‘Well-being’, for all hair types. It combines only the very best, carefully selected raw materials with the most advanced scientific research, creating a perfect synergy between Nature and Technology. The products have been developed so that they can be combined across families, in order to resolve specific combinations of scalp and hair problems.

Davines’ researchers have enriched Naturaltech by introducing phytoceuticals into each product’s formulation of active ingredients.

Phytoceuticals are active biological compounds, present exclusively in plants, which carry out antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifree radical functions. The fragrances used in all Naturaltech products come from natural essential oils, and are designed to induce a psychological sense of well-being; perfectly complimenting the efficacy of the line’s active ingredients. PN All Naturaltech formulas are free from parabens, and the shampoos are also free from sulphates (SLES and SLS). Designed in line with sustainability concepts, Naturaltech boxes are made of recycled FSC, self-assembling paper, free from paint, ink and glue to guarantee superior biodegradability. www.davines.com

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BILLY HARRIS: KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY To look at strapping St Paul’s College student and world record holder Matthew Mokoroa you’d never guess what he’s been through.

It was June 2006, when Matthew was just nine and still living in his native Rarotonga that the boy with an endless supply of energy just seemed to run down like a wind up toy. He suddenly found himself getting extremely tired when exercising. The fatigue rapidly worsened until even walking exhausted him, and then until he could barely eat.

He was taken to hospital where his problem was diagnosed as rheumatic fever.

Subsequent treatment made no difference, so Matthew’s parents took him to the local “tohunga”, or witch doctor, who said he had a heart problem.

That assessment also proved false and Matthew continued to deteriorate. So in July, within a month of becoming unwell, he was taken on an emergency flight to Starship Hospital in Auckland. He was put through a series of tests, and within a day he was diagnosed with Wilson’s disease, a condition in which copper accumulates in the tissues and can, as in Matthew’s case, require a liver transplant.

Once inside the recipient, the liver grows into a full-sized, fully operational organ, and Matthew quickly put his new one to good use. Within three years he was representing New Zealand at the World Transplant Games on the Gold Coast, and winning silver medals in each of the long jump, table tennis, and ten pin bowling, and a gold medal in the cricket ball throw.

Last year he attended the Games again, this time in Gothenburg, where he won another four medals. He won a bronze medal in the ten pin bowling, and then, picking up a squash racquet for the first time in his life, Matthew won silver. In the 100 metres sprint he scorched down the track to win gold in an impressive time of 13 seconds.

photography: martin leach

Fortunately his father Chris was the same blood type, so the rugby sevens rep, who’d passed on his sporting ability to his son, now gave him a piece of his liver, without which Matthew would have died.

His crowning glory, though, came in his specialist event, the cricket ball throw.

He launched it to a 12-14 year age-group world record of 69.07 metres, a distance which also beats the record for the next age group of 15-17 by four metres.

Now Matthew, who turns 16 in June, has set his sights on next year’s Games in Durban. With athletes limited to five events, Matthew intends to contest the 100 metres, long jump, squash, and tennis and of course the cricket ball throw, in which organizers are expecting him to set a new mark in the 15-17 year age group.

But getting to South Africa will require considerably more effort from his mother Annie than it will from Matthew. There are no state hand outs for athletes to attend the Transplant Games as there are for our Olympians, so competitors have to fund themselves, meaning it gets left to mum to raise the $10,000 for the two of them to fly to Africa and stay in a hotel for two weeks.

Matthew’s job is to keep himself in shape, which sadly means keeping clear of the rugby league field – he plays for Richmond and his school team - for the season prior to the Games because an injury could rule him out and put to waste all the time and effort of fund raising.

He doesn’t mind too much, knowing that playing sports, winning medals, and experiencing life in different countries around the world, is something other people would love to do. So much so that his friends often ask him where to sign up for an organ transplant!

Anyone wanting to make a donation to help Matthew get to Durban should email Billy on billyharris2000@hotmail.com to find out how.

Also, if you know of any kids doing great things in the community, let Billy know.

(BILLYHARRIS) PN

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FUTURE GENERATION

BAYFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL Principal SHERYL FLETCHER and Treasurer, LUKE DALLOW gather with students in the ‘leaky Library’.

BAYFIELD PRIMARY RALLIES LOCAL COMMUNITY FOR ‘HAMMERTIME’ Bayfield Primary knows the wider Ponsonby community loves a great night out for a good cause.

For more than 125 years the school has been giving its young pupils a strong start to their education and through this gathers together generations of parents with each passing decade. Now Bayfield is calling on the community again to bring friends, parents and staff to its much-anticipated “Hammertime” auction on 25 May. “Hammertime is more than just a fabulous night of great music, dancing and an eye-popping range of auction items money won’t normally buy,” says Bayfied Primary School Principal, Sheryl Fletcher.

“Hammertime 2012 is designed for ‘Building a better Bayfield’ with the aim to raise much-needed funds to assist the rebuild of Bayfield’s main school block. The Ministry of Education has decided that a rebuild is required to address leaky building issues across our library, the ICT suite, staffroom, seven classrooms and bathrooms. It’s unfortunate, but a necessity with another winter just around the corner.

“It is essential we continue to provide the best environment possible for our children and teachers. This event is an opportunity to raise funds that can provide the ‘icing on the cake’ enhancements for our 21st century students and help us put the school in good stead for the future.”

“This year’s auction is attracting exciting items such as a rugby coaching session for four children with All Black Ali Williams, a personal tour of the Shortland Street set by local resident Michael Galvin, better known as Dr Chris Warner, summertime access to sought-after baches in wonderful locations, and a fishing trip package that would whet the appetite of any bloke given half the chance.

“We are so grateful to the people who have cajoled, persuaded and gently twisted arms to present these items for Auction. It’s further evidence that it’s the people of this community that make the difference.”

One of those people is Bayfield dad, Board Treasurer, Chapel Bar owner and Hammertime MC, Luke Dallow. “Hammertime is an opportunity for local businesses as well as residents to get behind our future generations by providing their support. We’ve been lucky to have sponsorship support again from Accent Dental, as well as Razor’s Edge and Ben from Art + Object who is the event auctioneer.

“We’ve also had huge support from local Ponsonby and Herne Bay businesses which are providing refreshments to sweeten the atmosphere once the fun begins. It’s humbling to be part of the local spirit this neighbourhood knows how to do so well.

Hammertime is up there as one of my favourite nights of the year and it’s notorious for its fun!” PN Egg Decorating class for children with FIONNA HILL at Grey Lynn Farmers Market, April 1st 2012.

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FUTURE GENERATION CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW ‘THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER’ by Mark Twain.

Walker Books, $47.99 Written in 1876, this classic boyhood adventure story, set in a small town by the Mississippi River, can be enjoyed by a new generation of readers.

Robert Ingpen, Australia’s most successful illustrator is the only Australian to be awarded the Hans Christian Andersen medal for illustration.

In this handsome new edition, the lively, energetic story is accompanied by more than seventy delightful illustrations. It is just one of the well-known classics that have been illustrated by Robert Ingpen as part of the Walker illustrated classics series. Any one of the titles would make a stunning gift and be a worthwhile addition to the home library.

DOROTHY BUTLER CHILDREN’S BOOKSHOP, 1 Jervois Road T: 09 376 7283 www.childrensbookshop.co.nz

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FUTURE GENERATION SCHOLARSHIP THAT UNLOCKS YOUR CHILD’S LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL Ficino Primary and Intermediate School is offering four students the opportunity to unlock their true leadership potential, in a positive and inspirational environment.

Up to four scholarships covering 25 to 50% of tuition fees and full uniform costs will be offered to students currently in Year 6, to attend Ficino School for Years 7 and 8, in 2013 and 2014. Principal Peter Crompton is looking for children who can demonstrate strong academic performance and talent in a sporting or cultural area.

“We’re keen to talk to students who can show citizenship, community spirit and potential leadership ability, qualities that are highly valued at Ficino School. It is also important that the student and their family have an empathy with the school’s special character,” says Mr Crompton.

Located in Mt Eden, Ficino School offers a supportive and loving family environment.

The school has a roll of 122 pupils from New Entrants to Year 8. The scholarship is a unique opportunity for children who demonstrate an enthusiasm for learning and self-development.

“Ficino provides a unique values-centered, academically oriented education covering a broad curriculum. Students receive specialist subject teaching in most lessons, giving them a head start for their secondary school education,” says Mr Crompton.

Ficino School welcomes enquiries and would be happy to arrange a tour of their facilities. Please phone T: 09 623 3385 or visit their website www.ficino.school.nz for more information or to request a scholarship information pack. Applications for a 2012 scholarship to Ficino School close on 18 May 2012. PN

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS LAUNCH OF AUCKLAND SOLAR WATER HEATING PROJECT AUCKLAND RESIDENTS CAN NOW TAKE PART IN A RENEWABLE ENERGY scheme that will see them save on their hot water bills. The Auckland Solar pilot starts on this month and aims to have more than 250 solar hot water heating systems installed in homes and businesses across the region in the next 12 months.

Mayor Len Brown identified local generated renewable energy as an important step to becoming a more sustainable and resilient liveable city.

The Auckland Solar project will be managed for council by North Shore-based company, Solar Group Ltd. The scheme makes it easy for homeowners, with company taking care of everything from installation to the consent application.

Visit www.aucklandsolar.co.nz for more information.

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS NEW SHIPMENT @ EUROPEAN ANTIQUES The latest new shipment has literally just arrived at European Antiques & Furnishings!

In the midst of all the piles of packaging, crates and boxes (littering the showroom right now!) can be found an interesting collection of decorative collectibles from France, Belgium, Germany, Sweden and the UK. There is a varied collection of crystal chandeliers, starburst mirrors, oil paintings, bronze sculptures, beautiful Val St Lambert crystal vases and glasses, Eiffel tower glass lamps, mercury soda bottles, whacky tin glove moulds, groovy leather chairs, mid century coffee tables...and heaps more! So keep an eye on the website as all the new stock will be loaded shortly!

To keep in touch with the new shipment arrivals (another container is on the water shortly) simply register on the front page of the website to the IDEA newsletter and then you will receive an email letting you know when it has arrived. You can follow us on Twitter and Facebook too to keep up with the latest news, and of course we can source for your home or commercial projects as well.

So if you like interesting, good quality European pieces then call Meredith on T: 09 360 9858 and make an appointment to view or browse the website on www.europeanantiques.co.nz

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FIONNA HILL

THE PONSONBY GARDENER

AUTUMN ACTIVITIES LATE AUTUMN ALREADY AND WE’RE HEADING INTO THAT DORMANT TIME in the edibles garden. Autumn weather is not too hot to spend long hours in the garden though. I’m planting seedlings rather than seeds as they’re likely to give me better results at this time of year. You will get a better strike rate with seeds planted in spring. I use plastic bottles with the bases sliced off as protection over each plant to get them started. But don’t think the bottle will deter snails. We’ve seen them in the dead of night climbing up and down the neck into the bottle.

My seedlings include Squire Kale; I grow kale well every year and like to bandicoot (harvest the bottom leaves) the leaves for months. Squire is a curly green type of Kale. Whitefly like the leaves too and I haven’t sorted that problem except to soak cut leaves in salted water and rinse under vigorous running cold water before I cook it. I planted lots of Cavalo Nero seed in March and the seedlings need thinning and transplanting. Cavalo Nero is an old ornamental Italian variety of Kale. It grows into the shape of a palm tree.

Bloomsdale Spinach wouldn’t grow for me in the past so this autumn I’m trying Santana Spinach seedlings from Organic Herbs and Seedlings for better success.

Kohlrabi will go in again despite previous failures. It has a fat turnip-like bulbous piece just above the soil - in the past the bulbous pieces on mine have been like balls of dry string but I think I left them in the ground for too long. It is very attractive in the garden – I like Early Purple Vienna. It can be grated or sliced into salads or cooked like a turnip. Stir fries too. Talking of turnips I’ll plant my favourite Yates Hakurei – a baby white turnip.

Also my last lot of Broad Bean seeds – my favourite vegetable. My first broad beans are now 70 cm high, the second are 50 cm and this batch will follow up so that I have crops coming on for a long time. One rogue asparagus plant will have the tops cut off to prevent the seeds scattering.

Buckets of stinking comfrey tea are ready to fertilise the ground and there’s a little worm’s wee left to do the same. At our community garden we have our first batch of quality compost and I’m heaving it onto the garden.

My passion for edible flowers enticed me to buy Purple Flowered Snow Pea seeds (these purple flowers are edible) from Running Brook Seeds. Of course, if I eat the flowers there will be no peas.

Pak Choi (Bok Choi) likes autumn temperatures; I’m trying two types from Organic Herbs and Seedlings. Rob said that I can cut the tops off for a first harvest and they will re-grow. I’m trying Bonsai Pak Choi – a mini, compact variety in pots on my balcony. Italian Parsley seed saved in the summer will go in generously. Also I planted seeds of Franchi Autumn salad mix – Misticanza di lattughe Autunno – Inverno - in an old wooden beer crate with lots of worm tailings and they are near to thinning for a baby leaf salad. I’ll let the balance grow on.

Lettuce s is a cool weather crop and I love winter salads. Green Miles is a crispy, frilly lettuce that I buy from Organic Herbs and Seedlings (the only seller of this lettuce seedling in New Zealand apparently) – they’ll go in as well as another punnet of Canasta which do well in cooler temperatures and resist bolting. Canasta has red/green tinged leaves. In my small space lettuces with addition of a little lime as well as herbs and beneficial flowers will be dotted through the garden to fill gaps and this will mean rotation as the gaps are in different places each year. Radish Round Black Spanish from Kings Seeds will go in again. It’s a European winter radish with a dramatic black skin and white flesh. And it’s not as fiery as some summer varieties.

Harvest and store the last pumpkins now – we have none whatsoever in our community garden this year – the photo is friend Tony’s crop. (FIONNA HILL) PN SUPPLIERS FRANCHI SEEDS www.italianseedspronto.co.nz KINGS SEEDS www.kingssseeds.co.nz ORGANIC HERBS AND SEEDLINGS, Grey Lynn Farmers Market RUNNING BROOK SEEDS, Waiuku, T: 09 235 9138 YATES www.yates.co..nz

LIVING NATURE’S GERMAN DISTRIBUTOR VISITS PONSONBY PR gem Lou Henderson has moved her business Ruby Communications to Jervois Road, and consequently Birget Corall, Living Nature distributor in German and Austria, visited the ‘hood recently. Lou writes “Birget has been with Living Nature for 15 years and knows more about it than most people. She is very passionate about the brand, the hero ingredients and formulations, and the ethos surrounding the brand especially leading up to Earth Day.” “There are plenty of natural brands that don’t give a toss about the earth” says Lou. “Living Nature always has.

Germany are the leaders and developers in things Green including environmental causes and politics and also of natural skincare with Dr Haushka and Weleda leading the charge for decades now.”

“Birget sought out Living Nature for her business as she considered it to be best in class from outside of Germany even many years ago, and she ensures we stay ahead of the game. BDIH (German regulatory body) certification from Germany certainly helps in the German market, but the holistic view of EWG (Environmental Working Group) in America and an excellent safecosmetics.org SkinDeep database rating is also what gives the brand gravitas.”

Birgit’s timing was perfect. She travelled to the Living Nature headquarters in Kerikeri just before the 25th anniversary where she met with the team and had a jolly good immersion in everything that’s happening within the company. She loved the EcoStore and especially their commitment to Living Nature - it was a real WOW moment for her to see it merchandised so well.”

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS A WINNING COMBINATION 17 CHESTER AVENUE, WESTMERE Those in the know are fully aware how tightly held a home like this is. Scott and his daughter Paris have enjoyed living here and Paris tells us that the garden is “the best”.

She loves the huge deck where they can have family dinners outside and she pointed out to us that the garden is a fun place to run around and play safely.

This is a truly family friendly home. The generous kitchen has plenty of bench and cupboard space and the open plan living is highly desirable. Large bi-fold doors slide back and the living opens straight out to the deck and garden. There are three double bedrooms, a delightful sun room, on? bathroom plus separate toilet and offstreet parking.

With character good looks, a family friendly community and the local cafes, shops, park, zoo and school nearby, you’ll agree this is a winning combination. PN Auction 16 May (unless sold prior); Open Sat/Sun 11-11.30am and Wednesday 5-5.45pm. Chloe Wither M: 021 672 191; Andrea Ritchie M: 021 906 793.

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ASK AN ARCHITECT: PAUL LEUSCHKE Each month Grey Lynn resident and architect Paul Leuschke of Leuschke Kahn answers readers’ property related questions.

Email yours to jane@leuschkekahn.co.nz I’m currently renovating my home and wondered if you can give me some advice on lighting please? I’m also not sure what kind of light bulbs to go for, I know energy efficient bulbs can save money but the light is quite harsh, do you have any advice on how to use these?

Colour. Unlike other energy efficient lights LED lights score very highly on the colour rendering index (CRI). This index compares the quality of artificial light to sunlight, CRI 100 being sunlight. LEDs achieve 80-90 on this scale while a typical energy saving Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) scores 51.

Planning a lighting scheme is essential in creating a well-lit home. There are three main types of lighting to consider - Task, Accent, and Ambient. Task lights are bright and directional; the lights you see over a kitchen bench or reading lamps are examples of task lighting. Accent lights create mood and draw attention, for example a light over a painting or pendant light hanging in an entrance. Ambient lighting is for general space lighting - a low to medium level of illumination and is usually provided by down-lights.

Cost: They are more expensive initially but their long life and low energy consumption means that you quickly save money by installing them. To show how much you can save - the LED savings calculator on www.ledstuff.co.nz will work out the time it takes for the light to pay for itself and on www.rightlight.govt.nz there is a quick tool called “Bulb Finder” to help you select the right light to replace your existing lights and tell you how much you can save. LEDs are not just more environmentally friendly because they use less energy, they also do not contain mercury so they are less hazardous if they break and safer to manufacture and dispose of.

Q: A:

A good way to design your internal lighting scheme is to work room by room and plan how you will layer the light. Think about what activities will be carried out in the room that need task lighting (eg. reading, cooking, and working), then plan where you might want accent lighting to draw attention to an artwork, create a mood or have a feature light fitting (also consider where you need low lighting for safety such as on stairs).

Finally evaluate the combined effect of the task and accent lighting and add ambient lighting to areas needing more light and for the general illumination of the room.

It is easy to end up over lighting a space rather than effectively lighting it, too much light can cause problems such as glare and throw uncomfortable shadows, while too little can be unsafe and cause eye strain. For planning advice go to www.eglo.com.

For external lighting consider lighting for guidance and safety of movement at night (paths and steps) and where you need security lighting which is usually attached to movement sensors.

LED light bulbs are the best choice for energy efficiency and good light quality. They are rapidly developing and you’re likely to see more LED lights appearing on the market for household use. LEDs are available in many forms to replace most kinds of lights and are available in flexible strips for concealed lighting.

QUICK TIPS: Choose a warm white LED if you want a colour similar to an incandescent bulb and buy a reputable brand of LED with at least a five year guarantee, they are excellent to use in inaccessible places because of their long lifespan.

Incandescent – These are the traditional light bulbs, they are cheap but have a short lifespan of 1000 hours and consume the most electricity. New generation halogens are 30% more efficient than standard incandescent lights and last twice as long but are still not that efficient.

Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL) –These are 80% more efficient than standard incandescent lights. The disadvantages are the light quality and they are slow to glow when turned on. They also contain mercury which is highly poisonous and should never be put in your household rubbish.

Call the Auckland Council or look up www.hazmobile.govt.nz to find out when and where there is a hazardous waste collection near you.

New regulations to ensure down-lights are safer in the presence of thermal insulation come into effect on the 10 May 2012 and require all down-lights in new residential installations to have been tested and bear the new marking along with a supplier declaration of conformity. Look for the new mark and be aware if you are doing your own insulation that the mark specifies whether insulation may abut the light fitting (CA 80 and CA135) or abut up to and cover the light fitting (IC and IC-F).

(PAUL LEUSCHKE) PN www.leuschkekahn.co.nz

WAI ORA SPA’S AMAZING ALITE – IDEAL FOR USING AT HOME! WHEN MY EDITOR RETURNED FROM A deliciously languid long weekend at Wai Ora Lakeside Resort and Spa in Rotorua a couple of weeks ago he bought me a very special little gift – a bar of their Alite Milk Honey & Mud Soap soap.

Winners of 13 awards – “just the beginning”, according to CEO Bryan Hughes – including a World Luxury Spa award in 2011, Wai Ora Lakeside Spa is Rotorua's only international award-winning Destination Spa and Day Spa, specialising in Rotorua geothermal mud spa therapies based on the healing and wellness practices of the New Zealand Maori. Its divinesounding treatment menu includes signature spa therapies like the Wai Ora Miri Miri massage, mud spa therapies, spa facials and body wraps, or you can indulge in an aromatherapy spa treatment, a spa manicure, spa pedicure or a steaming herbal sauna in one of nine spa therapy rooms including two 'couples' spa therapy rooms complete with private dining areas and spa pools. You never need leavels.

But I digress – much as I wish I was there right now, glass of pinot in hand - I’m here to talk about Alite. The full range of their very own "Alite" mud spa products are used in all of the Wai Ora Day Spa therapies, all of which incorporate Rotorua geothermal mud, manuka honey, manuka oil, New Zealand milk and other essences of our beautiful country. The five products in the range are available for sale from the Wai Ora Day Spa shop as well, including the aforementioned Alite Milk Honey & Mud Soap AKA “the medicine soap”.

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Exported to the UK for the British Psoriasis Society, this very special, ultra gentle and healing soap for face and body contains a plethora of beautiful ingredients including a rambling rose planted to ease the homesickness of the wife of one of our first magistrates! Planted over 140 years ago, it still grows wild at Hells Gate today.

Alite is also enriched with Manuka Oil, which assists in decreasing the proliferation of bacteria that causes body odour and is a great all round healer. Geothermal mud from Hells Gate Geothermal Reserve is also in there, which is renowned for its healing and invigorating properties. This mineral-enriched mud provides an excellent source of silica, alumina, magnesium, calcium, iron, titanium, sulphur, phosphorous, sodium and potassium as well as trace elements such as copper, zinc, selenium, cobalt, manganese and molybdenum. A heady concoction indeed, and one that has garnered rave reviews from visitors to the spa as well as local fans.

This gorgeous range of products – which includes scrubs, masks, oils, lotions and salts for the face and the body - is perfect for detoxifying and purifying tired skin, absorbing excess oils from pores while natural anti-bacterial agents work to assist in the prevention of acne and break outs. Alite has been proven safe for almost all skin types and has not been tested on animals either, a fact which always gets a tick in my book! (HELENE RAVLICH) PN

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS BEAUTIFUL PIECES AT STUDIO ITALIA IThe classic and always beautifull Sushi chairs designed by Carlo Colombo for Zanotta. This armchair has won many awards over the years. The supreme comfort and the elegant shape has made this design one of the best sellers from the Zanotta range.

The Ventura range designed by Jean Marie Massaud. Enveloping, fluid and sensual shapes for an upholstered comfort and refinement.

The lightness is highlighted by a small walnut wooden structure (natural or lacquered). This collection is the quintessence of the style and know-how of the Massaud/Poliform for a well-off but contemporary comfort. It is one of the many new products from the Poliform range. The Soori coffee table , made of antique bronze , designed by Soo Chan also for Poliform Arriving at Studio Italia very soon.

Lungometraggio by Bruno Fattorini: A table made in Cristalplant ( Corian) that can be customised in size. Pictured with the Eva chair which can be made with different legs and a range of materials.

STUDIO ITALIA, 96E Carlton Gore Road T: 09 523 2105 www.posnonbynews.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS FIRST-TIME PRESENCE FOR NZ WINE AT VINEXPO ASIA PACIFIC 2012 NEW ZEALAND WILL PRESENT ITS LARGEST EVER SHOWCASE OF PREMIUM wines in Hong Kong at Vinexpo Asia Pacific in May this year. The first-ever Vinexpo Asia Pacific New Zealand Wine Pavilion will feature 20 wineries pouring 120 wines from the country’s leading wine growing regions, a reflection of the strong growth of New Zealand wine exports to Hong Kong, mainland China and the greater Asia region.

FORMING A FUTURE THAT LITERALLY LOOKS BRIGHT FOUNDERS OF FORM BATHROOM DESIGN + BUILD, HEIDI WYNN-PARKE and Richard Burkhead, have over 20 years of industry experience between them; product design and development, large-scale project specification and building project management.

So often bathroom design ‘guides’ fill you with promise, yet present nothing more than helpful advice such as ‘use an extractor fan in your bathroom to remove unwanted steam.’ Although important considerations, design is not simply about product choice and placement.

In broad terms, design is the creative expression of personality and individuality, and good design is applying this in the context of environment, functionality and practicality.

A good designer will acknowledge these factors and bring a room tastefully and harmoniously into existence.

As a result you will generally find a marked difference between the images presented in shiny brochures, with their polished display sets and what is actually produced in real life. The rooms Heidi and Richard have created will attest to the fact that reality is not necessarily drab or lacking in personality, rather the rooms are considerate of their surroundings and, more importantly, of the homeowners’ individual requirements.

They may not be constructing personal Meccas of sanctuary on a daily basis but they are encouraged by what they are producing right now in the real world. The use of mosaics, textures and furnishings, with soft organic shapes, all point towards a more inspired, adventurous and playful approach to creating and designing spaces.

They are excited to be riding the beginnings of the inevitable tidal wave of colour and creativity that will reshape the industry. PN

Co-sponsored by the New Zealand government, the Vinexpo New Zealand Wine Pavilion also heralds a new strategic partnership between the national economic development agency, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and the national wine industry body, New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW).

“Over the next few years, NZTE will be working with New Zealand Winegrowers and high growth wine companies to ramp up exports of premium New Zealand wines to China. Building recognition of the New Zealand Wine brand and attracting the attention of influencers in the Chinese wine industry will be a key factor in success of this project”, says NZTE’s Wine Programme Manager, Karyn Murray.

“Vinexpo Asia Pacific offers the perfect opportunity to showcase the diversity of New Zealand’s wines to the large number of media, buyers and educators that attend the show”.

Vinexpo Asia Pacific is the last stop of a three-city New Zealand wine China roadshow that includes New Zealand wine events in Beijing and Shanghai. New Zealand Winegrowers’ March 2012 export statistics show a 53% growth in New Zealand wine exports to mainland China in the last 12 months, with exports to Hong Kong growing 16% over the same period.

“We’re pleased to see strong growth for New Zealand wine at price points that reflect our premium positioning”, says Monty James, New Zealand Winegrowers’ Market Manager Asia. “We also understand that with continued growth comes increased commitment and time in market.”

In a further coup for New Zealand wine, the world’s most celebrated sommelier, Gerard Basset MW MS will join Bob Campbell MW to host a key trade Tasting Lab session at Vinexpo Asia Pacific 2012. Titled “The regional complexities of New Zealand Pinot Noir”, the session will showcase some of the country’s most exceptional Pinot Noir by region. The 72sqm New Zealand Pavilion is located at Stand Number AB 74, next to Vinexpo Entrance D. PN Official website for NZ grape and wine industry: www.nzwine.com; New Zealand’s economic development agency: www.nzte.govt.nz

FORM BATHROOM, 42 Karaka Street, Newton T: 09 302 0073 www.formbathrooms.co.nz

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DON’T MISS THE JUNE PONSONBY NEWS+ DEADLINE COPY DEADLINE: Sunday 20 May PUBLISHED: Friday 1 June (Please be on time, as any material arriving after deadline may incur a 20% surcharge)

SPECIAL FEATURES: HOME INTERIORS AND RENOVATIONS + WIN ‘A VERY PONSONBY’ WARDROBE + SUSTAINABILITY TO BOOK ADVERTISING: ask about our special positions!

Jo Barrett on 021 324 510 or T: 09 361 3356 or 09 378 8553 E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz W: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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New advertisers receive 250 words of editorial when booking a minimum of a quarter page advertisement.

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THE HISTORICAL BOROUGH OF PONSONBY AND GREY LYNN

STREET NAMES: ANGLESEA, (FORMERLY ANGLESEY) PAGET, PICTON SEVERAL STREETS IN AUCKLAND ARE named after heroes who served under the Duke of Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo. The list is long, but one man is of particular interest. Three streets are named after him, two in Ponsonby and one in Howick. Henry Paget, the second Earl of Uxbridge was commander of 13,000 Allied cavalry and at a crucial stage of the famous battle he led a charge against the French Corps that was pushing back fellow Commander Sir Thomas Picton’s outnumbered Division.

They were certainly a breed apart, those commanders. Thomas Picton concealed his fatal chest injuries from his men and fought on till his last breath. Uxbridge spent the rest of the battle leading further charges and had nine horses shot from under him. Finally a cannon blast hit his right leg and according to anecdotal evidence, he exclaimed to Wellington who was nearby, “By God, sir, I’ve lost my leg!” The Duke’s reply? “By God, sir, so you have!”

The wound required amputating above the knee and this was performed at his headquarters in the village of Waterloo. He was remarkably stoic and composed at the prospect and and according to his aide-de-camp said “I have had a pretty long run.

I’ve been a beau these forty-seven years, and it would not be fair to cut the young men out any longer.” The agonising procedure was accomplished without painkillers and his only comment throughout the ordeal was, “The knives appear somewhat blunt.”

Just after the amputation, another fellow Commander, Sir Hussey Vivian came to the cottage where the grisly operation took place and was asked by the patient “Ah, Vivian! I want you to do me a favour. Some of my friends here seem to think I might have kept that leg on. Just go and cast your eye upon it, and tell me what you think.” Sir Hussey took up the lacerated leg, carefully examined it, and found it “Completely spoiled for work. A rusty grape-shot had shattered the bones all to pieces. I therefore told him he could set his mind quite at rest, as his leg, in my

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opinion, was better off than on.” Uxbridge was offered an annual pension of twelve hundred pounds in compensation, which he refused.

However, five days after the battle the Prince Regent created him Marquess of Anglesey.

The saw used to amputate the leg is held by the National Army Museum.

The leg itself became a rather macabre tourist attraction. Monsieur Paris, the owner of the cottage where the amputation took place, asked if he might bury the limb in his garden.

He established a shrine, taking visitors to see first the bloody chair the Marquess sat upon during the amputation, then to where the leg had its own tombstone which was inscribed with all sorts of words lauding the illustrious and valiant nobleman. An amazing number of tourists from European society were drawn to the place, and over a number of years the leg was a nice earner for Joseph Paris and his descendants. Not everyone was impressed and an irreverent wag wrote on the tomb, ‘Here lies the Marquis of Anglesey’s limb; The Devil may have the remainder of him.’

In 1878 Paget’s son visited and found the bones on open display. They had been exposed during a storm that uprooted a tree beside the tomb. The Belgian ambassador in London demanded the relics be returned to England, but the Paris family refused, offering instead to sell them to the Uxbridge family, who were understandingly enraged.

The bones were not returned but kept hidden till after the last Monsieur Paris died in 1934. His widow found them in his study and she incinerated them in her central heating furnace.

Losing his leg did not hamper the Marquess of Anglesey’s career. He rose to become a Field Marshall and Knight of the Garter and wore an articulated prosthesis designed by a Londoner, James Potts that became known as the “Anglesey Leg”, one of which is still preserved in the Plas Newdd Military Museum. (Here rests, and let no saucy knave’ Presume to sneer and laugh; To learn that mouldering in the grave, is laid a British calf.) Beginning words of a long verse by Thomas Gaspey. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS)

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HOMEWARES AND INTERIOR DESIGN HUB - ENFIELD STREET, MT EDEN Some very Ponsonby businesses have recently reproduced, and their offspring are to be found at BLOC in Mt Eden.

First up there’s WORLD Beauty. WORLD’s Benny Castles writes “WORLD Beauty is more than excited to bring its unique and delightfully luxurious mixture of beautiful items to the den of Mt Eden culture at BLOC. A new conceptual store means new ideas, and WORLD has more than enough of those.

Bringing the WORLD Beauty brand into a space such as the new BLOC environment where the collection of personal fragrance, home scent, skincare and collectables will be juxtaposed by other great ideas from Citta, Bo Concept, Tivoli Audio and Compaigne de Provence, is an inspiring process. ...this concept store will be an edifying evolution for the WORLD Beauty brand, offering a new perspective of its opulent personality within a new and elusive space.”

Then there’s darling Pencil Boutique. “Pencil Boutique is NZ’s only dedicated stationary liaison” says Benny. With one sneaky little hideout in Franklin Road, Pencil has spreading its lead with a second store at the new Concept Store BLOC. Pencil showcases such legendary stationary brands as Moleskin, Rhodia and G.Lalo all the while treating you like the “pre - Mac” generation that you deep deep down want to be - when writing a love letter didn’t depend on being someone’s Facebook friend... and jotting down your thoughts didn’t depend on how many twitter followers you have!

Pencil Boutique at BLOC will have the same eclectic complication of stationary items and treats that will amuse delight and ultimately entice you that are currently on demand in Ponsonby...only more Mt Eden-ish.” PN WORLDBeauty / PENCIL BOUTIQUE at BLOC, Level 2, 20 Normanby Rd, Mt Eden T:09 6310916 ext: 3 www.worldbrand.co.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HARROWSET HALL BRIMMING WITH LUXURIOUS LINENS Harrowset Hall is considered, by lovers of fine bed linen, to be the best and most well-established linen store in the country - and the good news is it’s right on your doorstep.

The store is as always, brimming with wonderful linens for the winter season. Luxurious velvet quilts and comforters with coordinating cushions are proving very popular in colours such as teal and chartreuse as well as the ‘can’t go wrong’ staples of black, charcoal and red.

Blue is still very strong with navy making a comeback to mix with French style toile prints. One of the best selling items at present is a range of pure linen bed throws and quilts by Bianca lorenne. These throws and quilts give an air of casual non -chalant luxury to your bedroom, the uniquely crushed appearance of linen providing natural texture.

The stunning and eclectic range of products caters for most home decor styles and their experienced team will always be willing to help select the right accents so you can create a bedroom you can’t wait to get home to.

But if you are time poor or simply want to do your own research and selection then visit Harrowset Hall’s new and recently launched website. There customers can peruse some of the latest collections and order such staples as their signature Egyptian cotton sheets made of 500 thread count cotton sourced direct from Egypt. PN Get online and have a look… www.harrowsethall.co.nz HARROWSET HALL, 87 Jervois Road T: 09 361 5647, Shop 7, 21 Nuffield Street T: 09 524 4452

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS TAKING HEATING EFFICIENCY TO A NEW LEVEL “With winter fast approaching there couldn’t be a better time to launch our new Braemar SIX star ducted central heating range,” says Dave Ryan of Complete Heat; “however with current demand expected to exceed supply we have bought up big to ensure availability for our clients. For the first time ever our supplier has units sold before they even arrive in New Zealand.”

He says this is the first and only six star unit in the world and with each additional star comes a saving of 10-15% in gas use providing efficiency most home owners could only dream of. It is hard to imagine but the affect is immediate as most installations take only a day to complete.

Their new range provides even greater savings on your gas bill in addition to all the other features Aucklander’s have come to expect from ducted central heating, things like heating homes no matter how high the ceiling is or how poorly they are insulated.

Unlike other forms of heating with hideous wall mounted boxes and dubious reputations for effectively heating bungalows and villas due mainly to their high ceilings Complete Heat central heating is both unobtrusive, in fact quite stylish, due to our Designer grill range and carries our performance guarantee, no matter what it takes, it’s simple, “WE GUARANTEE TO HEAT YOUR HOME”.

AND, to celebrate their launch they are providing six star units and free designer grills to all Complete Heat customers who purchase their four or five star systems during May. To book an appointment or for more information call T: 0800 570 770 or visit www.completeheat.co.nz PN

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KITCHEN, BATHROOM AND INTERIOR DESIGN ASK ROB@BUILDSPACE.CO.NZ We are in the process of selecting tapware for our new bathroom and we are quite taken by some of the new designs from Methven. In our last bathroom we chose Grohe tapware which we have always understood to be very good quality and which we were very pleased with. Are there any advantages to Grohe or other European brands over Methven tapware?

Q:

If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom without upgrading an existing low or unequal pressure hot water system to mains pressure, Methven offers the best range of tapware suitable for all pressure installations. Methven’s patented Fastflow™ technology provides a great shower with an unequal or low pressure system using high pressure cold water velocity to draw the low pressure hot water through at an increased rate.

Methven is a world class manufacturer which has won a host of awards for design, innovation and water and energy efficiency. Grohe and other European manufacturers certainly produce very good products, but Methven tapware is in no way inferior and in fact offers unique design and functionality which you won’t find with any other brand. And if you ask your plumber which brand of tapware they recommend, more often than not the answer will be Methven.

Fastflow™ provides maximum water flow at the optimum temperature, meaning you get the right temperature and the right pressure every time. Fastflow™ shower mixers work equally well with mains pressure systems too, so you won’t have to change your tapware if you upgrade to mains pressure further down the track

A:

Methven is New Zealand’s oldest and largest tapware manufacturer with a proud history of over 125 years. Dating back to 1886 as a producer of brass and iron hardware, today Methven is an internationally recognized leader in the design of innovative and distinctive tapware and shower products.

Methven has won a number of awards including the Green Award in the 2011 Good Design Awards for the Kiri Satinjet Low Flow Shower Head and the Red Dot Product Design Award for the Tahi Twin-Lever range which goes to show how well Methven is regarded internationally.

Satinjet showers are probably the best and most efficient available, utilising clever jet design to create a unique shower spray which offers a luxurious, invigorating shower experience while at the same time potentially saving both power and water.

A conventional showerhead sprays single jets of water which produce a narrow, needle like spray, whereas Satinjet uses twin jets of water that collide and turn into thousands of tiny droplets allowing you to shower at a lower water flow rate without compromising on quality so you’ll enjoy a refreshing experience safe in the knowledge you’re not wasting water. And (saving on your hot water costs) and regardless of your final choice of tapware, we highly recommend Satinjet showers.

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When it comes to design, Methven offers a wide range from traditional to contemporary with something to cater to every taste. The Tahi range uses a unique twin lever system providing independent control over hot and cold water flow which promotes energy savings over traditional mixer taps combined with a stunning modern design as recognised by the prestigious Red Dot awards.

Methven’s latest design is “Waipori” meaning dark water in Maori. The Waipori range is a contemporary square design softened with subtly curved edges and corners and includes a full range of showers, basin, sink and shower mixers including hob and wall mounted basin faucets and a swivelling bath spout. One other good reason to choose Methven is their 20-year manufacturer’s warranty on residential installations. Introduced last year to celebrate the company’s 125 year anniversary, the 20-year warranty is a demonstration of Methven’s commitment to the quality and performance of their products and one which you won’t find matched by most European manufacturers.

If you’re looking for cutting edge design, innovation and efficiency for your bathroom or kitchen, we recommend you start with Methven. For more information visit www.methven.com (ROB HOOK) PN BUILDSPACE KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS – Design Build Install T: 0800 455 556 info@buildspace.co.nz www.buildspace.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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THE BOYS’ BOOK CLUB WHAT WE’RE READING Books us blokes on the Ponsonby News team are reading, or have recently enjoyed. We LOVE reading in the bath, or in bed. A real stress buster!

MARTIN LEACH

JOHN ELLIOTT

ALT

By André Leon Talley (VILLARD)

THE GREAT DISRUPTION - HOW THE CLIMATE CRISIS WILL TRANSFORM THE GLOBAL ECONOMY

By Paul Gilding—2011

Two of my friends, WORLD co-Founder Denise L’Estrange-Corbet and APT Fashion Boutique owner Linda Chandlet both tell me how down to earth André is – both have met him in New York and while he was here during last years’s Fashion WEeek and while theyt were filming “America’s Next Top Model’.

One of the most striking figures in international style offers a unique and unforgettable memoir of the two women who shaped his dreams, tastes, and character.

“My grandmother and Mrs. Vreeland had similar ways of appreciating luxury,” writes André Leon Talley, “because they both believed in the importance of its most essential underpinning: polish.”

In A.L.T., Vogue’s editor at large explains how a six-foot-seven African-American man from North Carolina became the influential fashion figure he is today, learning life’s most enduring lessons from two remarkable women: his maternal grandmother, Bennie Frances Davis, a woman who worked back-breakingly hard as a maid, yet taught him to embrace the world with a warm heart and an open mind; and Diana Vreeland, the inimitable editor in chief of Vogue and director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, who became his peerless professional mentor.

In a rich, eloquent voice that resonates with both small-town wisdom and haut monde sophistication, Talley tells of the grandmother who encouraged his dreams and ambitions while instilling in him an abiding sense of dignity and style, and of the legendary fashion doyenne who took him under her wing as he rose to fame in the wild New York of the 1970s. Threaded throughout are stories of the man himself, who has survived thirty years in the “chiffon trenches” with eminent grace and style.

Clear, elegant, and often magical, A.L.T. shines like a rare jewel as it illuminates three extraordinary lives.

JAY PLATT THE HOUSE OF SILK

by Anthony Horowitz (Orion Books)

Paul Gilding is an Australian environmental business expert. He has been warning of a coming crisis for a long time. He was International President of Greenpeace, and more recently worked with a number of large corporations on sustainable solutions for their companies.

In this very recent book, Gilding says it is time to stop just worrying about climate change. Instead we need to brace for impact, because global crisis is no longer avoidable. Gilding believes the Great Disruption started in 2008, with spiking food and oil prices and dramatic ecological change like the melting polar ice cap. It is not simply about fossil fuels and carbon footprints. We have come to the end of economic growth, a world economy based on consumption and waste, where we lived beyond the means of our planet’s ecosystems and resources.

Although Gilding paints the usual gloomy picture of how bad the planetary overdraft really is, the book contains a deeply optimistic message. He is sure the best humanity can offer-compassion, innovation, resilience and adaptability will win the day and save us from extinction.

Gilding says the transformation he envisages will lead to “ a steady –state, sustainable economy, built on the pursuit of quality of life, a more equitable sharing of the world’s wealth, and learning to operate in harmony with the ecosystem’s capacity to support us.”

One of the world’s great environmental campaigners, Bill McKibben says what big oil and coal companies are doing is just plain wrong.

In his conclusion Gilding says, “We are the system; we have to change. We all know what we need to do. Shop less, live more. Raise chickens and children who think. Build more community, make our lives more connected. Elect good political leaders, throw out bad ones. Make good companies stronger, make bad companies go broke.”

So read his book, and get behind his positive and constructive ideas. We can save the world—just a bit at a time. PN

It’s November 1890 and London is in the grip of a merciless winter, Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson are enjoying tea by the fire when an agitated gentleman arrives unannounced at 221b Baker Street. He begs Holmes for help while telling an unnerving story of a scar faced man with piercing eyes stalking him wherever he went.

This begins a brilliant murder mystery/whodunit by Anthony Horowitz who is the creator of Midsummer Murders, Foyle’s War and Poirot to name but a few. The House of Silk has officially been approved by the Conan Doyle Estate making it a classic in itself. It’s not a rewrite, nor an update but a “New Sherlock Holmes Novel’ the book jacket proudly declares, and it sure is.

I Love sherlock Holmes and being from London I have visited 221b Baker Street to see exactly where it all happened, and it was great to wonder exactly what went on and be able to put a place to the locations. If you like mysteries with a very dark and fog bound London involved then this is excellent. I have read this kind of thing many times before and although I enjoyed it, it was predictable.

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New Yorker and founder of Apt 86, Linda Bosfield calls Herne Bay home these days, but when the fashionista in her gets home sick she returns home but works on building contacts like Editor-at-large for Vogue magazine André Leon Talley and ‘Project Runway’ mentor Tim Gunn.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOT PROPERTY - HOT LISTINGS ST MARY’S BAY $580 Spacious character split villa. Three double bedrooms and one bathroom. Older style kitchen, with built in dining table and window seat. Lounge with sunny shared rear garden. Single carport. There is a one bedroom flat next door and a one bedroom flat under the house. See more photos on Trademe Listing number #469224460.

GREY LYNN $580 Richmond Terraces, two level terraced townhouse. Recently redecorated and re-clad.

Two double bedrooms and bathroom on the first level then open plan kitchen, dining and living area on the top level. Sunny, north facing balconies off the master bedroom and living area. Situated next to Nature Baby in the West Lynn shops so walking distance to Gypsy Tea Rooms, Harvest Wholefoods and the Organic Butcher. Two secure car parks beneath the building.

PONSONBY $580 Highgate Towers Apartments at the top of Howe Street. Just decorated with new carpet and paint. Two double bedrooms, master with ensuite, two spacious living areas with open plan kitchen and west facing balcony off lounge. There is a gym, sauna and a heated swimming pool included. Two end on end secure car parks beneath the building.

SANDRINGHAM $380 Looking for quiet tenants for this tidy, sunny two bedroom unit in a block of three.

Spacious lounge with ranch-slider out to sunny balcony. Single garage plus one park in front. PN Call Phillipa Gordon on M: 0274 746 507 to arrange a viewing.

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

POTATAU STREET, morning of Friday 13 April... Movie crews in Arch Hill making ‘Going to Mums’.

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MARTIN LEACH pictured beside the soft-top MINI COOPER, after stopping for lunch at the Woodturners Cafe on the way to Tauranga and Rotorua.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY U3A: APRIL 2012  PONSONBY NEWS - MINI REVIEW I HADN’T DRIVEN A MINI SINCE THE LATE 70S, WHEN IN LONDON, I BOUGHT a red and black Mini Cooper S for the princely sum of ₤75. It lasted me 18 months, before being caught in a heavy snow storm. Driving home from Gatwick Airport, I skidded down the Purley Way in Surrey, and unable to stop smashed straight in to the car infront. Next a car slammed into my rear and before I knew it, my car was a complete right off! My mum drove a Morris Mini in the late 60s...so I did have a fascination for the brand, which is why I was dead chuffed to get a call from Jack at the Mini Garage in Ponsonby who had heard I was off to Rotorua for four nights and would I like to borrow a charcoal soft top Mini for my trip!

I asked my friend Paul Heard to help me write a mini review and he was then asked to pop along to the Mini Garage on Ponsonby Road to test drive one of them. The guys there were very friendly and helpful, he explained, with a rundown on all the features. He was soon driving off in the Mini SOHO, number two of a special edition of 15. With only 12,000 km on the odometer it felt and looked brand new.

A very sharp looking combo in Duo tone silver white and anthracite, great BBS looking black and silver 17” alloys, Bi Xenon headlights, and special SOHO graphics adorn the bonnet and side mirror caps. Giving it a racy appearance on the outside.

Inside the SOHO continues the theme but in a luxury manner. Carbon Black leather seats piped in cream are comfortable and fully adjustable, as is the steering column so you can really get set in a comfortable and safe position to drive. And drive you will! The rest of the interior is a fairly standard Mini layout but with added touches like Piano black inserts along with cream accents that give it a sporty, yet classy appearance. Matched by the excellent Harmon Kardon stereo system, that has both USB audio interface and Bluetooth to connect your phone to the system for full hands free calling controlled by the multi-function steering wheel.

The sports theme continues with the tacho dead ahead of the driver and the Steptronic auto gearbox that can be left in drive or switched across into sport mode and driven with the gear lever or the steering wheel shift paddles. They can take a while to master, but really bring out the sporty feel on the fun roads.

The engine is a 1.6, 88kw capable of an economical 6.4 l/100km, although most will use more as they zip about imagining they are appearing in the ‘Italian Job’. I would love to have a Mini Cooper Works with the manual gearbox to zip about in. I once drove a full race version mini around Hampton Downs, that was so much fun it was almost illegal. But back to reality.

There seems to be a Mini for almost everyone now, from the Mini Ray to the Cooper S and John Cooper Works 155kw racer. Plus they have a 4wd Countryman, along with the Coupe and Roadster models for the sports car fans.

(MARTIN LEACH & PAUL HEARD) PN

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

THE MEMBERS, HAVING BEEN PUT THROUGH THEIR PACES BY ‘TEN MINUTE’ speaker, Jane Jones – more about her talk later – were again put on their metal by the very learned and interesting team from the Fraud and Corruption Department who were the guest speakers for the monthly meeting on Friday 13 April.

Nick Paterson is the General Manager – Fraud and Corruption. Nick joined the Serious Fraud Office as General Manager, Fraud & Corruption in July 2010. Prior to this appointment he was the Executive Director in charge of Ernst & Young’s Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services team. He is a chartered accountant and has specialised in fraud and forensic investigations since the mid-1990s. As well as working within a CA firm environment, he has also worked for the Financial Service Authority and the Serious Fraud Office in the UK. Nick is a Certified Fraud Examiner and past president of the Auckland CFE branch. He was joined by Reid Panaho who is a Case Manager in the same team.

Their talk discussed the fraud trends in 2012: and the work of the SFO. The aim was to give an oversight of the SFO, what gets their attention and how they operate. He began by telling how the calls for their services range from being funny and small through to large and serious involving big companies most of whom one reads about in the press. They have a mandate to investigate and prosecute serious or complex fraud.

They must have grounds for reasonable suspicion that an investigation may disclose serious or complex fraud. Notices are issued to obtain documents or information for the detection of this serious and complex fraud. Investigations then proceed.

The group learned exactly what fraud was and also the typical issues, i.e. internal embezzlements, false statements in the accounts, false statements in corporate documents etc. Current investigations and prosecutions were also outlined, i.e.

Hanover Finance, South Canterbury Finance, etc. Recent convictions were outlined – National Finance, Green Acres and so on. The talk ended with discussing where fraud is headed. There is no end to fraud only variation in its form. The good and positive aspect is that there is a greater awareness of the problem and prevention.

Needless to say there were many questions arising from Nick and Reid’s most interesting and fascinating talk for which the group gave many thanks.

Prior to the main speaker, member Jane Jones gave a rallying call advocating the benefits of belonging to a gym. How a personal trainer will give specialised exercises to suit the individual and how much better she felt having completed the various exercises set down for her, she is now stronger and more flexible. She gave an example of a man aged sixty plus who had various problems and after attending the gym, achieved his goal of doing a marathon in the Antarctic.

One can just see all the members of the Ponsonby U3A going to the Antarctic to achieve a marathon! (MARIANNE WILLISON) PN The next meeting for the Ponsonby U3A will be held on Friday 11 May at 9.45 am at the Leys Institute. The Guest Speaker will be Catherine Lomas who is the Head of Operations for the new Auckland Art Gallery.

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GOT A LEGAL QUESTION? ASK MICHAEL@METROLAW.CO.NZ

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

Email Michael with your question and include PONSONBY NEWS in the subject line.

Michael Hemphill, a partner of the firm will answer one topical question each month.

Q: A:

We have purchased a block of land and we are now in the process of choosing a builder for our new home. What things should we look out for in a building contract?

I would strongly recommend that you have a lawyer look at the agreement for you but I will set out some of the major issues to consider. Price – you want a fixed price, the builder wants to charge you for any variations or extras, so check the specifications carefully to make sure everything is included and identify any likely variations. Finding rock during excavation is a common example of how things can quickly become more expensive and everyone decides that they need more power points than provided in the initial plan. Be clear about how much any agreed variations will cost and how much they will delay completion.

These things may sound trite but it is important that the builder starts building the house, keeps building the house, finishes building the house and then fixes up any problems once they finish. In the building contract this translates to having a start date, a finish date and a maintenance clause. In a perfect world you would have a liquidated damages clause so that if they did not finish on time then you would get a credit for the added cost of not having your house ready when you wanted it. Maintenance clauses often say that any defects must be notified within 30 days so you should see whether you can get this extended to 60 or 90 days and also make sure that you do a thorough inspection when you take possession.

It is common for building contracts to have payments required at key stages; “foundations complete”, “floor down”, “roof on”, “lock up” etc. You should consider the amount of exposure you have at any given stage. This is because it is important that the builder does not go broke while building your house and if they do then it would be best if the amount that you have paid them is matched by the amount of work that they have done so you can then use the money you have left to pay someone else to finish it. This is known as making payments on a “cost to complete” basis. It is always useful to ask for references and check them. Search the company that is doing the building work for you. There are several building franchises in New Zealand that licence their name to franchisees. If something goes wrong then it is usually the individual builder and not the franchise owner that you have your agreement with and that you will have to deal with in addressing any issues. If they are offering you a guarantee check carefully to see what it covers, does it include the loss of a deposit? PN METROLAW, Level 2, 36 Williamson Avenue T: 09 929 0800 www.metrolaw.co.nz

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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS BUSINESS CONFIDENCE BOUNCES BACK DESPITE ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY NEW ZEALAND BUSINESS CONFIDENCE GAINS NINE POINTS TO 103 SINCE September 2011. 50% of businesses report revenue increases. 48% of businesses believe economic recovery will gather pace in the second half of 2012 New Zealand business confidence has risen since September 2011, with the country gaining nine Index points to 103. The global Regus Business Confidence Index, released today by the global workplace provider, shows the majority of businesses (50%) report increased revenues in the six months to April, and 46% report a profit growth.

Findings indicate 48% of NZ businesses believe economic recovery will gather pace in the second half of 2012, with 78% expecting company revenues to rise in the next 12 months. However, businesses remain cautious of the need to contain costs in order to manage growth, particularly through periods of global economic uncertainty.

The Regus Business Confidence Index also analysed the factors contributing to corporate distress in the past six months and business perceptions of the most effective cost cutting measures looking ahead.

RESULTS SHOW: • New Zealand firms identify inflexible margins paid to resellers or distributors (52%) and making permanent staff redundant (48%) as the main reasons for corporate distress during the recent economic downturn.

• Businesses identified more sales through third parties (55%), a shorter supply chain (50%) and increasing use of cloud IT applications (38%) as the areas where companies could best make savings without damaging growth prospects.

• New Zealand firms report that a wider distribution of customers (48%) and more remote working (43%) would make the greatest contribution to enhancing future business stability as a platform for growth.

• Globally, the Business Confidence Index rating is lower for small businesses (107) than for large firms (124).

Filippo Sarti, Regus CEO Asia Pacific, said: “After a significant drop in sentiment between March and September 2011, business confidence is showing signs of renewed optimism, which is supported by the positive performance results among New Zealand firms.

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“Despite the impact of global financial volatility on the local market, New Zealand companies are looking at ways to save smartly on costs to help boost company productivity without damaging growth prospects. In particular, businesses are relying on more flexible working practices to facilitate longer-term growth, such as more use of cloud IT applications and technology to support remote working.

“Given the variety of solutions readily available on the market for flexible workspace arrangements, such as pay-as-you-go business services, there is no doubt that the number of businesses benefiting from more agile and scalable arrangements will increase in the coming years,” said Mr Sarti.

THE REGUS BUSINESS CONFIDENCE INDEX In every edition, the Regus Business Tracker report presents an updated Business Confidence Index. This index is a measurement formed on an aggregate of positive and forward-looking statements combining year-to-date revenue and profit trends with views on the expected economic upturn in the coming months and aims to provide businesses with a single point of reference of the survey’s key findings. Its benchmark average was set at 100 in the first edition of the Regus Business tracker in September 2009.

ABOUT REGUS Regus is the world’s largest provider of flexible workplaces, with products and services ranging from fully equipped offices to professional meeting rooms, business lounges and the world’s largest network of video communication studios. Regus enables people to work their way, whether it’s from home, on the road or from an office. Customers such as Google, GlaxoSmithKline, and Nokia join hundreds of thousands of growing small and medium businesses that benefit from outsourcing their office and workplace needs to Regus, allowing them to focus on their core activities.

Over 1,000,000 customers a day benefit from Regus facilities spread across a global footprint of 1,200 locations in 550 cities and 95 countries, which allows individuals and companies to work wherever, however and whenever they want to. Regus was founded in Brussels, Belgium in 1989, is headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on the London Stock Exchange. For more information please visit: www.regus.com

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS ANIMALOSOPHY: DR MEGAN ALDERSON

KATHRYN WILSON AND MR BIGGLESWORTH Kathryn Wilson’s Cornish Rex cat Mr Bigglesworth is four years old. Footwear designer Kathryn has had him since he was a tiny kitten - she was on a waiting list for a year because she wanted the right colour.

Kathryn originally wanted a dog, but she is often overseas and always at the office. Her uncle is a vet and he recommended the Cornish Rex breed, saying that they are just like dogs with lots of personality, but with a cat’s independence. The other reason for choosing this breed is that they don’t moult.

GREY PAWS My favourite colour was blue until I intimately got to know grey.

I look at my dear grey girl and lament how accurate poet Emily Dickinson was when she said ‘Old age comes on suddenly and not gradually as is thought’. How did my beautiful black girl turn into an old dog overnight?

Grey hairs aside (and there is an extra couple of dozen every week) she’s taken the leap from battling middle age spread to a senior citizen and I honestly can’t tell you when this change occurred.

We too are seeing the graying of a population. Elderly pets are now accounting for a large part of our veterinary frequent fliers club.

WITH YOUR OWN PET CHECK ON THE FOLLOWING LIST: • Are they eating more or less?

• Have they lost weight or gained weight recently?

• Are they drinking any more than usual?

• Do they need to go to the toilet more frequently?

• How are their energy levels-used to be a 10/10 and now only a 5/10?

• Are there any changes in behaviour especially around sleeping habits?

“I wanted something quite playful” says Kathryn “and Cornish Rex are known for having kitten-ish personalities. I ended up taking ‘Biggles’ to work every day, so I may as well have gotten a dog!”

Mr Bigglesworth is named after the ‘horrid’ cat on Austin Powers. “When he was little he looked just like that - no hair. He was completely bald till he was six months old,” Kathryn says.

The pair’s favourite thing to do together is look for birds in the courtyard of their Sarsfield Street house. Kathryn calls “where are the birds?” and Mr Bigglesworth yells at them.

‘Biggles’ has lots of friends. A pal of Kathryn’s down the road has Prince Henry who is the same breed, and somedays Kathryn drops Biggles off for the day for a little hangout. There are four dogs at the office and Kathryn Wilson, assistant Julia’s French Bulldog Sydney greets Biggles with loving licks.

Biggles has Irritable Bowel Syndrome so he can only eat Hills IF biscuits. And yes, he likes shoes and even has a pair (or a four) of his own, that Kathryn bought from Japan.

“He does have a fascination with feet,” she says “If you come into the house he will smell your feet to see where you’ve been.” (JULIE ROULSTON) PN

Any changes give us subtle clues that it is time to take a closer look. Veterinary medicine used to be about the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff but these days with our ‘Grey Paws’ examination early detection of treatable or at least manageable disease is on offer to all pets.

So, though our park walks are getting shorter and cutting across the field the new norm we still have the water. Watching her swim reminds me of the lovely scene from the movie ‘Cocoon’ where the seniors are floating and laughing in the weightless carefree existence buoyancy affords. Seeing her revert back to the exuberant youth of a young Labrador is a precious moment for me, her doting owner, to enjoy and etch into my memory.

For older pets join us this month at The Strand Veterinarian for your Grey Paws check over. Go to our website to check what this service entails and receive a 20% discount for the month of May. PN THE STRAND VETERINARIAN, 114 The Strand T: 09 377 6667 www.thestrandvet.co.nz

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ASK ALEX RESCUED KITTEN IN NEED OF A LOVING HOME This beautiful black Persian kitten was sick and very scared when he was first rescued from a colony living rough out New Lynn way but he is now healthy and full of beans.

So if you are a cat lover and wish to provide a loving home to this beautiful kitten now called Carlos, he is ready and waiting to be taken home. He has been neutered and vaccinated.

Carlos has a wonderful personality – we call him the Lion King – he is serene, brave and very gentle with his other kitten friends. He is however, still timid with people and although he enjoys being stroked he is not keen on being picked up. To approved homes only. A donation to assist with his vet care would be appreciated. PN Please phone or text Billie : 021 671 712

Each month Dr Alex Melrose answers readers’ pet related issues. e-mail yours to: alex@vetcare.net.nz My cat, a massive three year old ginger boy, Rufus, has a lump on the back of his neck which is about one cm in diameter and is pale in colour with visible blood vessels. He’s got a huge mane of red hair and he doesn’t let me brush him much so it could have been there for a while before I spotted it. Do you have any suggestions as to what this could be? I am worried now and can pop him in for a thorough exam if you think I need to. Kind regards, Sarah and Rufus.

Q:

I’d love to be able to diagnose this for you but unfortunately there isn’t a person on the planet who could accurately tell you what type of skin growth that is just based on description. What we do know is that we do commonly see malignant skin masses in young animals e.g. mast cell tumors, so only being three years old isn’t an automatic exclusion. We also know that these nasties can sometimes mimic the appearance of very common benign lumps such as lipomas or papillomas.

And in this instance we can’t be sure about rapid growth or change in appearance.

A:

Because of this we really need to have a look at it closely and then recommend at least a fine needle aspirate to make a microscope slide from its cell type to identify it accurately. This gives us a guide to planning treatment, from not needing to do anything, to removing the mass with small margins with sedation and local anesthesia block, to taking out wide margins of tissue under a general anesthesia for more dangerous cancers which can have invisible spread of abnormal cells far out from the mass edges.

The odds are really in your favour but definitely pop Rufus in for a quick and painless exam and fine needle test to be sure we get him the best treatment.

(DR ALEX MELROSE, BVSC MRCVS) PN VETCARE GREY LYNN, 408 Great North Road T: 09 361 3500 www.vetcare.net.nz

Puppy JACK (pictured above with Martin Leach) was born on 4 May 2002, so he will celebrate his birthday on Friday, 4 May. Happy Birthday, Jack!

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A NIGHT-IN WITH TIM WAKELY This month’s array of DVD’s from Civic Video Ponsonby includes; steel, a cat with second-hand boots and a five star day that never really took off.

REAL STEEL DreamWork’s recent DVD release is a robot movie with a little bit of heart. Set in the near future Hugh Jackman fills the boots of Charlie Kenton, an ex boxer who ends up gaining more than he bargained for when he inherits his long lost son, Max, for the summer.

The unlikely duo must come together as they gear up for the biggest comeback in robot boxing history. Real Steel is an engaging Robot film that a father and son will enjoy.

The bright sparks, robotic sounds and straight forward redeeming storyline will entertain all.

Jackman is perfectly cast as the lead as his man’s man Hollywood persona adds a distinct authenticity to a film that could have easily gone astray falling into the Transformers; Dark of the Moon direction. Luckily Evangeline Lilly’s “tough girl” persona does not get overshadowed by the male stars as her star shines just as much and adds a much needed value to this male dominated film.

Real Steel is a welcome relief from the high concept cheese films released last year.

Overall, this easy to engage with film will keep you most entertained well into the foreseeable-wet winter weather.

PUSS IN BOOTS Antonio Banderas reprises his voice role of everyone’s favourite sword fighting ginger cat, Puss in Boots. The Shrek spin off ticks all the right boxes, it’s funny, charming, meaningful and a little cool. Although, this film doesn’t have the same pull as its predecessor, this 90-minute prequel will entertain children and parents this month. Set before Puss’ time on Shrek, Puss is a fallen hero who has turned to petty thievery to help get through life.

However after a cat-burglary for some beans goes astray, puss must revisit his past if he is ever going to get what he has most long desired for; high in the sky. The casting for this film is pretty spot on. Antonio Banderas and Selma Hayek’s personas work well together as the two cat burglars who eventually become romantically involved. Zack Galifianakis is also worth a honourable mention as his input heightens the comedic undertone in the film. Also the antagonists, Jack and Jill, are pretty funny too.

Puss in Boots carries on the recent tradition of good humorous animated flicks. This is because no-one will be able to dispute that this is indeed a funny film.

FIVE STAR DAY Danny Duday‘s debut Five Star Day is straight up boring.

The film left me scratching my head as I just couldn’t understand why this film was even made. Five Star Day contains no exciting fixtures, the storyline is thin, the acting is poor and the film fails to be creative. I can see the intelligent intentions that the director may have had for the film, but the quiet tone fails to create the mystery and thought that this film desperately needed.

GRAHAM REID: SPOTTED ON SPOTIFY THE HILLS – AND ELEVATORS, SUPERMARKETS AND DOCTORS’ WAITING rooms – are alive with the sound of music. Yet despite being assailed by often unwanted Muzak, most of us still want music in our lives - and more of it judging by the success of iTunes, iPods and the download culture. You can add to that list, a new player in the New Zealand market, Spotify, which brings you essential music you never knew you wanted.

If the name is unfamiliar, it won’t be for long. Spotify is an online streaming system which allows you access to millions of pieces of music – many millions in fact – for a monthly fee less than you pay for a cocktail.

You can’t download, but imagine your iPod pumped full of plutonium and primed to explode. You want Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony? I counted about 30 different versions. Something more obscure, like 70s band Gentle Giant? And the “related artists” tag allowed me to discover three albums by Beardfish (recent prog-rock) as well as dive back into bands like Caravan, Magma, Renaissance and Coliseum whom I hadn’t thought about for years.

You want the White Stripes? All present and correct – as well as Karaoke Hits of the White Stripes, the Vitamin String Quartet’s tribute album... you get the picture: Spotify is a black hole which sucks you in - in a good way.

Recently I discovered the terrifically trippy album Gentle Stream by The Amazing which has been released locally. They’re out of Stockholm and have tapped in to a Byrds/Astral Weeks/psychedelic vibe. Spotify took me to their two previous albums, and I can’t tell you how far into Californian and Swedish psychedelia I got by hitting the “related artists” link.

But I also spotted an English band I’d forgotten, the Amazing Blondel from the 70s who played medieval instruments alongside guitars and anticipated Fleet Foxes by decades. (Couldn’t see their England album, but with 10 others to choose from that might be picky.)

Spotify lets you settle arguments (“No, Aunt Eggma Blowtorch appeared on Neutral Milk Hotel’s 1995 EP Everything Is, not on the ‘96 album On Avery Island”) and you can create play-lists to share or for an evening at home, while working on the computer or just a lost weekend. The apps will let you travel with them also.

I like the random factor. A friend turned me on to Shabazz Palaces – an astonishingly inventive hip-hop outfit signed to indie label Sub Pop out of Seattle – and the journey took me to araabMUZIK, WU LYF, Youth Lagoon, Lil B... Cyndi Lauper to Edith Piaf? Easy. Billie Holiday to the Boswell Sisters (1925-36)? Click of a mouse. New Zealand acts? More and more being added as the deal is signed.

I’m told because of Spotify – founded in Stockholm less than four years ago and now in about a dozen countries, with various subscription options – digital and CD sales have increased in every territory it has opened. I can see that.

A friend not much interested in recent music came over and started with what he knew – “Strawberry Alarm Clock, just to see if they’ve got it.” Yep – and ended up discovering Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti albums. He moved up five decades in 15 minutes.

That’s how this hooks you. If you have a great pool of music at home Spotify is the ocean. Dive in, the water’s deep but fine. (GRAHAM REID) www.spotify.com

The film centres round Jake Gibson (Cam Gidget) who believes that after reading his horoscope that his birthday day will be full of infinite possibilities. However, his horoscope couldn’t be more wrong as his day goes from bad to worse. After this bad birthday, Jake decides to do his next presentation on disproving the theory behind horoscopes. To do this Jake decides to find people who were born on the same day and hospital as him to interview them about the kind of day that they experienced on their birthday.

I couldn’t decide what the worst part of the film was and I am searching desperately to write something positive that would make you want to watch it and I have failed. Watch at your own peril. (TIM WAKELY) PN

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT MASTERWORKS GALLERY

GOLD BOWL BY CRAIG MCINTOSH, 2012

24 May – 20 June; Preview: 23 May 5.30pm NECKWARE 9

WOODEN PENDANT BY SARAH WALKER-HOLT, 2011 Our annual neckwear exhibition returns; a group jewellery show that invites established and emerging jewellers to submit pieces to be selected by Masterworks and an external judge. This year our guest judge is Finn McCahon Jones, Associate Curator of Applied Arts and Design at Auckland Museum.

The ninth exhibition of its kind, Neckware 9 promises to mark an important event in the jewellery calendar, encouraging artists to make new work and to extend their practice.

The exhibition also promises collectors a carefully curated look into new trends in contemporary jewellery.

Working and exhibiting independently from one another for many years, Frances and Craig rarely discuss each other’s work in depth; and prefer not to listen to criticism from one another.

“It is somehow too personal”, they explain. However “we both appreciate what the other does and for this work we have chosen aspects, ideas and materials of each other’s work to remake as our own...This show is about changing a little, and having a sly dialogue about the nature of each other’s work as we see it.”

JEWELLERY BOX – TREVOR BYRON

THINKSPACE FRANCES STACHL & CRAIG MCINTOSH

TREE BONES FRANCES STACHL, 2012

PICKING A FIGHT: Crossing the line of constructive criticism into the dodgy space of outright idea pilfering.

This exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the creative practice and shared critique of contemporary jewellers and couple Frances Stachl and Craig McIntosh.

LANGUAGE BY TREVOR BYRON, 2012 DIRTY Taking the garden as his inspiration, jeweller Trevor Byron has created a new body of work in silver, ebony, moka (flax fibre), tape washers and stainless steel. This is what our thoughtful Trevor has to say: As an animalier I receive requests for the feathered, furry and fluffy. Many want keepsakes of their most visible and valued companions so dogs, cats, birds and fish are the norm. When not occupied making these I get to explore the more unusual creatures that inhabit our world especially the creepers and crawlers, hoppers and burrowers. ‘Dirty’ is an exploration of those tireless gardeners...Earthworms.

How often do we spend a weekend with spade and shovel thrashing about in our gardens in the belief that we’re improving the soil..? When all along the humble earthworm is busy dragging fallen leaves, grass clippings and other organics down its burrow to dine on at leisure. On the next foray out it leaves a casting of nutrients and minerals to nourish our vegetables and all this activity aerates the soil! I am taking the weekend off and will let the worms do the hard graft in my garden. PN MASTERWORKS GALLERY, 77 Ponsonby Road T: 09 378 1256 www.masterworksgallery.com enquire@masterworksgallery.com

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT BLACK ASTERISK GALLERY IMPERFECT – A Photographic exhibition by Emma Bass 5 – 20 May; Preview: May 4th 6.30pm Emma’s house was full of flower arrangements in various stages of liveliness from bunches of weeds, vases on every flat surface, drifts of petals on the mantel, a huge bouquet blooming, fading and drooping in time lapse. It was the fading that she wanted to catch: the extraordinary moments of beauty in transit.

In the spirit of the Japanese aesthetic of Wabi Sabi, Emma’s flower portraits honour the beauty of the imperfect and the homely. Imperfect is her gentle contemplation upon the ‘greatness’ that exists in the inconspicuous. Her images, in a formal progression of fragile back-garden blooms, weathered foliage and nostalgic vessels, have an atmosphere of wistful dignity. Caught in each pristine rendering a bruised petal, curling leaf or withering edges suggest that prime has passed, and yet, “I wanted to challenge our concept of what is beautiful,” Emma explains. “For me, this project is about framing reality. The flaws themselves are beautiful, because they are true to life. The Wabi Sabi ethos to find beauty in reality can be applied to our wider life - our bodies and the ageing process, even the ever-changing world around us.”

MUTE - A collaborative photographic project by Jackie Wilson and Vincent Bolletta. Includes ‘Boxer’, a short film/installation

by Jackie Wilson and filmed by Florian Habicht.

24 May – 5 June; Preview: Tuesday 22 May Mute is a photographic collaboration with movement in a desire to morph the body.

Choreographer/dancer Jackie Wilson provides the brushstrokes for Vincent Bolletta’s photography which have produced images somewhat louder and more expressive

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than the title suggests. These images will be shown alongside short film/installation ‘Boxer’ which Wilson made with filmmaker Florian Habicht in 2005. On completion of dance training and taking on the many different styles of movement required, Wilson decided to let all of the training go, not to be erased but to decompose and then somehow be reconstituted into her physical voice. Like learning any language it was the challenge of finding one’s own character and personality within it that has driven her resulting aesthetic. Her work has often been collaborative, working with artists from other mediums to shape projects and fuel future works. Not least is Mute which stems from the experimentations of Bolletta with his camera.

‘THE PLAYERS’ - An Exhibition of Sculptures in Glass and Bronze

by Graeme Hitchcock. 24 May – 5 June; Preview: 23 May 6.30pm “He’s a man’s man”. A phrase often heard and yet what does it mean exactly? Triggered by the extremely masculine spectacle of the recent Rugby World Cup, Graeme Hitchcock’s evocative new works in cast glass and bronze pay homage to the strong, powerful males we so openly idolise and worship as heroes here in Aoteoroa. Though not explicitly rugby players, Hitchcock’s pieces exude a physical force and determined strength, and yet there is emotion displayed in the faces and expressions of these warriors that shows that the victory was not won easily.

The concept of players and their spectators is further explored in this solo exhibition with Hitchcock’s already successful “Men Looking” pieces. These are the men of the crowd or the street. Watching, scrutinising, absorbing the movements of others and the world around them, deep in their thoughts, somewhat distant, safely self – contained.

Graeme’s figurative style is refreshingly individualistic. Of his work Graeme says “I cannot spend a day without doing something in my studio… The Players have been a big challenge as they take a long time from start to finish and the final piece is not revealed until the end…There is a lot of anticipation involved.” PN BLACK ASTERISK GALLERY, 10 Ponsonby Road M: 021 040 1168 www.blackasterisk.co.nz

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SHOWING AT INDEPENDENT SAINTS GALLERY WALKING IS PROGRESSIVE FALLING - JIN NAN DENG 9 May - 2 June As we walk what we are actually doing is falling yet we walk, unaware of this fact. Walking upright we are separated from the apes, still as we walk we remain unconscious of the process - (Paraphrased concept by Sorren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) within ‘Repetition and Philosophical Crumbs’) History marks the “walking of time” – as we are unaware of falling as we are walking so too we are unaware of the subtle and subliminal influences of the past on our present.

This is Jin Nan Deng’s first exhibition in the southern Hemisphere and with the eight works in oil, Deng looks toward the past within the present and in this he offers us solace and hope in the possibilities of the future.

Jin Nan Deng was born in Beijing, China in 1953. He is a member of CAA (Chinese Artist Association) and he is co-director of Fine Art for East China Normal University.

Deng gained his MFA at the University of Helsinki. Many of his works are held in private collections in Shanghai, Finland, Germany, Japan, Helsinki, Beijing and the United States and he has exhibited in group and solo shows around the world.

Open Tuesday - Saturday 10:30am - 4:30pm with private viewings by appointment.

INDEPENDENT SAINTS GALLERY, 56 Brown Street www.independentsaints.org

ART WITH A CAUSE ‘EYE ON THE OCEAN’ Until 31 May, Jafa Cafe Rio Rossellini is a renowned conservation cetacean artist who uses the rare pointillist technique to depict whales and dolphins against the backdrop of New Zealand.

Also a whale and dolphin activist, Rio uses her art to highlight current plights of cetaceans, with the imminent extinction of New Zealand’s endemic 55 Maui’s dolphins high on her agenda.

When not dotting away on her artwork Rio is busy attending attending marches and meetings with various conservation societies to help the cause.

With artworks in private and public collections around the world, including that of HRH Prince Charles, Rio is happy to be able to share her current works in an exhibition at Jafa Cafe, 551 Richmond Road. PN www.riorossellini.com BLACK ASTERISK The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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JAMMING WITH JESS CELEBRATING VINYL RECORD COLLECTIONS AND THE ART OF MUSIC International Record Store Day was held this year on the 21 April.

a vinyl store,” but the managers have brought in products and ideas that appeal to a wider audience.

On this day local record stores worldwide are acknowledged for the part they play in developing the art of music. The global event has recently grown in popularity and resulted in artists using the day to release new material and hold in store performances.

As well as hosting unique music, the store has local artwork, headphones, hats, t-shirts and collectable figurines. A big part of making Conch appeal to a wider audience was the incorporation of the little café at the front of the store.

Among those who celebrated the day was Ponsonby’s Conch Record Store. The team at Conch joined forces with George FM to provide a live-to-air show with performances from Latinaoteora and Christoph El Truento.

The café allows browsers to take their music experience to another level and makes Conch a destination to be explored. The managers at Conch are currently working on a plan to extend the café into a courtyard at the rear end of the store.

Conch was set up as a part of the Aotea Square markets in 1998 by Cian O’Donnell.

O’Donnell then designed and built a store with Brent Hollands in an arcade on High Street. In 2006 the store moved to Ponsonby and acquired its third manager, Dustin Lindale.

Conch has two ingredients that make for a successful Ponsonby business: A unique concept and coffee. Along with the regular live performances this should be more than enough to continue Conch’s success on Ponsonby Road. (JESSICA MCALLEN)

Lindale suggests that there is something about vinyl that MP3 and CDs cannot replace. “My vinyl collection documents a journey of the types of music I have collected over time,” he said. “There is also the social aspect of it, a vinyl collection invites guests to browse a collection and discover music.”

Vinyl stores have suffered as the music industry turns to the growing popularity of digital music and MP3. The team at Conch are not unaware of this problem and have been working on developing the store. It is, as Lindale said, “first and foremost

DUSTIN LINDALE’S ALBUM RECOMMENDATIONS: Various - Soul Cal (Funky Disco and Modern Soul 71-82) Myele Manzanza - One (EVERY WAKING HOUR) Fatboy Slim - Late Night Tales (ARISTA) Cedric Im Brooks - Light Of Saba (HONEST JON’S) V/A - Jukebox Jam (JAZZMAN) CONCH RECORD STORE, 115a Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 1999 www.conch.co.nz

SHOWING AT TE KARANGA GALLERY K’ROAD FASCINATION AND PIX-ELATION – An exhibition of abstract paintings by Sarah Beale.

19 - 27 May Preview: Friday 18 May 6pm.

Fantasy, surrealism and patterns of nature, rolled into a lively collection of vivid colour and complex layering.

Sarah Beale has been painting basically her whole life, but with intense dedication over the last five years and is finally coming out to show the world her wild and fabulously abstract paintings.

This is also for a good cause as a percentage of proceeds from any painting sold will be directly helping communities in Papua New Guinea through Fairtrade Organisation, as part of Fairtrade fortnight 2012.

Come, have a wine and see some truly original and imaginative art. PN For more information contact Sarah sarahgracebeale@gmail.com TE KARANGA GALLERY, 208 Karangahape Road T: 09 377 9335

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SHOWING AT PARNELL GALLERY MARK COMPTON - WHITE WALLS 15 - 29 May; Preview: 15 May, 5.30pm After years working as a fine art screen printer and production manager, up-and-coming artist Mark Compton has retired the day job and is now a full time artist working from his studio in Auckland. His work in the art trade combined with time at Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design opened his eyes to the possibility of pursuing a career as an artist.

In this exhibition, ‘White Walls’, the first solo show of his career, Mark steps away from his more graphic print-based work, to a representational approach in his painting.

Using the basis of white walls and small pops of colour, Mark explores the conversation between nature and industry around us.

“There’s no great environmental plotline behind it all!” he says. “I just love the irony of how the roughness of industry and innovation can sit so interestingly with the beauty of nature.”

Cycling his way to the studio every day, Mark collects a lot of his inspiration en route, painting simple, surprising snapshots of the beauty and contrast of the two worlds living together.

There’s an easy familiarity about his work – things you see every day, but expressed in a different way. “I love creating and I love what I do, but at the end of the day happiness is seeing paintings going to a new home with someone who enjoys them as much as I do!”

PARNELL GALLERY, 263 Parnell Road T: 09 377 3133 www.parnellgallery.co.nz

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Detail from Devonport’s old Post Office, the subject of JAM RADIO’S debut series on design and architecture: “The Object”

URBAN ARTS VILLAGE DEVONPORT In Auckland’s burgeoning mega-metropolis, where the small and distinctive is in danger of being assimilated into the mainstream, Devonport has asserted itself as an urban arts village, defining itself by its unique characteristics which include its harbour side heritage and lively arts scene.

All city suburbs have the capacity to stand out; Ponsonby, with its rich strip of fine fashion, arts and eateries; Dominion Road’s distinctive Asian flavour which calls to mind a local Chinatown; Otara’s colourful Polynesian populous and magnificent multicultural market. This makes a city world class; its ability to embrace and promote diversity.

The Depot celebrates Devonport’s urban village status with www.urbanartsvillage. co.nz a website dedicated to sharing its history, landmarks, stories and colourful characters. Urban Arts Village is also linked to The Depot’s Jam Radio via “The Object” an audio documentary series exploring Devonport’s distinctive characteristics as represented by architecture and various design features.

JAM RADIO

Jam Radio www.jamradio.co.nz is The Depot’s community radio on the web and has recently launched the design and architecture show: “The Object”. From unearthing the history behind everyday objects and buildings through to unraveling larger quagmires of urban design, The Object looks at the things that surround us and the ideas that fuel them.

This is done through commentary and interviews with architects, designers, craftspeople, anyone involved in the process of creating, using or preserving them.

The first series focuses on Devonport, and its debut features the Old Post Office on the eve of being awarded a category two on the Historic Places Trust. This, and more, on The Object: www.jamradio.co.nz PN

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SMALL DOG MEMBER’S GALLERY It’s official! Front Room has become Small DOG (Depot’s Other Gallery). Situated street front at The Depot, Small Dog offers you fresh and affordable contemporary New Zealand art and objects in a gallery setting.

In fitting celebration of this exciting change we would like to introduce to you our new initiative, “Artist of the Month”.

May features; the talented Erin Forsyth. Her creations of dark whimsy are remarkable to behold indeed...and behold you may when you make your merry way along to Small Dog to view her intriguing works on paper for immediate purchase (and eternal wall beautification) during the month of May. Now is most definitely the time to visit Small Dog to be inspired by the amazing talent and ideas on offer or alternatively you can visit us via our website www.depotartspace.co.nz Also don’t forget if you wish to support or to be a part of The Depot Community you can also join as a volunteer or you can become a member today. With so many opportunities on offer to purchase works, to show your artwork via Small Dog Gallery, as an Artist of the Month, within an exhibition or online through our exhibition and sales pages now is the time to get involved. www.depotartsapce.co.nz PN THE DEPOT, 28 Clarence Street, Devonport T: 09 963 2331

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GEOFF HEDLEY– Dandelion – as part of upcoming exhibition Natural light.

SATELLITE LAUNCH ‘SUM OF THE PARTS’ The highly anticipated cultural mapping exhibition will be opening in August at The Depot’s Clarence and Kerr Street spaces in Devonport. The title Sum of the Parts is a reflection of how each individual map contributes to the mapping project and each of us plays a part in our perpetual cultural development within a community.

The exhibition has been met with fervent response from the community and there are now close to 20 maps and other cultural expressions in production for the exhibition.

People from all over the country are getting involved; from the artist Nigel Brown in Southland, to members of the Kohukohu community, to author Michael Smythe on the North Shore, to Ponsonby local Jennifer Sol. ‘Peace is not merely the absence of war’ is the title of one of the maps in production.

It is a celebration of the many events and individuals who have helped us to define Aotearoa New Zealand as a peaceful nation.

The peace movement has had considerable impact on our cultural development, identity and perceived identity abroad as New Zealanders: from the early peaceful protests of Te Whiti and Tohu, to today, as New Zealand celebrates its 25th anniversary as a nuclear free country. Help us celebrate this significant anniversary and contribute to this cultural map by telling us about your involvement with, and experience of the peace movement in Aotearoa. PN Email erin.forsyth@depotartspace.co.nz, drop into THE DEPOT, or visit www.nzculturalgenealogymapping.wordpress.co.nz to find out more.

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GROUP SHOW: HUMOUR FROM MY PEN WITH ART TO AID THE CUBAN FIVE 12 - 24 May Opening: 12 May 5:30pm NATURAL LIGHT – AUCKLAND FESTIVAL OF PHOTOGRAPHY 9 – 20 June Opening: 8 June 6pm Satellite Gallery, nestled in the heart of the Newton precinct, is a destination that both surprises and provides a satisfying arts experience for the visitor. In its six year history other galleries and creative enterprises in Newton have come and gone. Satellite remains and continues to offer freedom of artistic expression and appreciation of the arts and ‘create an environment that encourages creating’.

Satellite’s second exhibition this year features the work of Cuban caricaturist Gerardo Hernandez whose drawings have been published in the Cuban media and exhibited internationally. From 1989 to 1990 he participated as an internationalist combatant in the war of liberation in Angola and against apartheid.

This travelling exhibition of political cartoons, including twenty New Zealand artists such as John Walsh and Malcolm Evans, is put together in support of the Cuban Five, a group which infiltrated right-wing terrorist groups in Miami to gather intelligence on imminent attacks on their homeland. They have each been in jail in the U.S since 1998 on allegedly trumped-up ‘conspiracy’ charges.

Satellite also participates in the Auckland Festival of Photography in June with “Natural Light,” a collaborative exhibition by Leon Rose, Wendy Brandon and Geoff Hedley which explores a passion for landscapes and inspiring Marco floral works. PN SATELLITE GALLERY, Corner St Benedict’s Street and Newton Road T: 09 307 6416 www.satellitegallery.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING AT LETHAM GALLERY SHANE HANSEN New to Letham Gallery’s walls this month is art sensation Shane Hansen, with a series of solid plywood and framed works that are impossible not to get lost in!

Hansen’s design influenced works portray a bold and confident style that reflects his Maori, Scottish, Danish and English heritage.

From the clean design of the Piwaiwaka oval print to the innovative luminescent (glows in the dark!) framed Te Toa Wairua, we look forward to seeing more of Hansen over the next few months in preparation for his new exhibition in June this year.

Above: SHANE HANSEN – ‘Te Tui Kowhai’ and ‘Tuatara’.

JOHNNY ROMEO – “Tars Kettle Tea”

JOHNNY ROMEO - WHEN DOVES CRY 19 – 29 May Preview: 17 May 6pm.

When pop culture and art history collide in an explosion of colour, emotion and famed art references, there comes When Doves Cry, the new exhibition created specially for Letham Gallery by pop art sensation Johnny Romeo.

Australian born Romeo’s work is critically acclaimed in its attempt to represent a visual type of poetic and rhythmic blending of word, symbol and image.

Referred to as a bombastic neo expressionist pure pop painter, with a lot to say about modern life, his work deals with the way we construct our identities from the vast array of images that pop culture immerses us in.

When Doves Cry focuses on the iconic image of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Romeo endeavours to “paint Frida the way she may have painted herself, had she been a pop artist.” The rich pastel colours and fluid, graphic lines of the paintings evoke the brashness of classic comic-book aesthetics, while remaining true to the likeness of Kahlo.

There is a deep sense of introspection and sensitivity underlying these works. Using the symbol of Kahlo, Romeo explores the relationship between mother and child, and the dualities of innocence and experience, the heroic and the tragic. PN LETHAM GALLERY, 35 Jervois Road T: 09 360 5217 www.lethamgallery.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE ROSS JONES – HOKEY POKEY

SHOWING AT MOMENTUM GALLERY

Ross Jones graduated from the School of Design in Wellington in the early 90s, then spent the next 15 years working on commissioned paintings for commercial clients around the world. Ross’ paintings are all about telling stories; they are a mixture of seemingly perfect places and events – but like all good stories not everything is as it seems. Shadows create just enough intrigue to tip the balance between the serene or sinister scene. Ross’ favourite line is “Don’t let the truth get in the way of a good story”. No arguing with that! Check out: jonesthepainter.com

GREG STRAIGHT – ON YOUR BIKE

BRAD NOVAK – REFLECT A TIKI Paul Hartigan protégé Greg Straight serves up another treat this month with his latest print, ‘On Your Bike’. Here Greg moves away from his popular Tiki series to focus more on urban imagery. This bike could be located in a city in New Zealand, New York or London with a couple of cheeky pigeons temporarily taking it for a spin.

Limited Edition fun!

KYLIE HAYNES – TUI TWO ‘Suppose, sweet eyes, you went into a distant country, Where these young islands are nothing but a word; Suppose you never came back again by Terawhiti; Would you remember and be faithful to your bird?’ Words of wisdom from newcomer Kylie Haynes, who makes her Momentum debut this month with her ‘Past Being Present’ series, a heartfelt selection of stunning 1.2m high digital prints on Ecoply.

Momentum Gallery highlight seasoned campaigner (and new father) Dr. Brad Novaks’ stunning ‘Reflect A Tiki’. Brad has perfected a unique technique to give a mirror-likeeffect in different locations on each variant edition. These artworks are an extension of Novak’s innovative and unique screen-printing process which began with his first on paper in late 2008. He often applies inks in reverse to the usual screen-printing convention. Momentum is pleased to present both pieces - a must see.

MOMENTUM GALLERY, 1/182 Jervois Road T: 09 376 4749 www.momentumgallery.co.nz

To complement these show-stoppers, Kylie has done a limited edition set of four stunning screen-prints. We start off this month with ‘Tui Two’, with others to follow in coming weeks.

Strictly limited edition - not to be missed!

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‘Seeking to devour’ by PETE WHEELER, oil on canvas, 1980 x 2220mm

SHOWING AT WHITESPACE NOT FOR ENTERTAINMENT 8 - 26 May Few exhibitions in recent memory, save perhaps 2007’s Turbulence Triennial, have self-consciously assembled work that is so hard to look at, so challenging to think about, and so necessary. Doris Salcedo once said of her work that: ‘As an artist, I don’t have the opportunity to choose the themes that inform a piece. The oft-celebrated freedom of the artist is a myth.’

The artists that make up Whitespace Gallery’s Not For Entertainment – Andy Leleisi’uao, Ross Ritchie, Niki Hastings McFall, Pete Wheeler, Lauren Lysaght, and Locust Jones – share the impetus to create works that confront realities that we wish were not real.

Lysaght’s miniature hearses lose no elaborateness to their scale, and Hasting McFall’s tiny tomb breathes an optimistic breath into her version of a burial. Jones’ ink drawing recalls Picasso’s Guernica, while Ritchie and Wheeler offer modernised momento mori. Leleisi’uao slight sculptures, though unsettling, are themselves born of an awareness of a reality that must be addressed.

Not For Entertainment draws together a group of artists that are all engaged in a startling project – creating works that confront their own realities as artists (and humans), while reminding viewers that we are not immune to these realities. The prospect – and likewise the exhibition – is challenging: this is not for entertainment.

(AMY STEWART) PN WHITESPACE, 12 Crummer Road T: 09 3616331 www.whitespace.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE THE ALPHA, THE OMEGA, AND EVERYTHING INBETWEEN

FORECASTING WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR MANKIND

DOCUMENTARY EDGE FESTIVAL 2012 – OPENING/CLOSING NIGHT FILM AND SCREEN EDGE FORUM

DOCUMENTARY EDGE FESTIVAL 2012 – FUTURE WATCH

Every story has a beginning, middle and an end. The same applies to the Documentary Edge Festival 2012.

This year, the festival opens with the follow up to the hit film Who Killed the Electric Car? Director Chris Paine returns with Revenge of the Electric Car. Narrated by Tim Robbins, it highlights the comeback of the electric car, five years on since the original film. With almost every car manufacturer jumping to produce new electric models, Paine takes us behind the closed doors of Nissan, General Motors, a Silicon Valley start-up company Tesla Motors, and a part-time electric car convertor who refuses to wait for international car makers. Paine will be a guest of the Festival supported by the US Embassy.

The festival closes its curtains for another year with the powerful Life in Movement, a celebration of the life of dance/choreographer Tanja Liedtke. Her work was acclaimed across the world, culminating with her appointment in 2007 as the new Artistic Director of the Sydney Dance Company. At the age of 29, before taking up the position, she was struck and killed by a truck in the middle of the night. 18 months after her death, collaborators embark on a world tour of her work, and in the process, must deal with their grief and explore the reasons for her death. Incredibly moving, Life in Movement gives audiences a powerfully rendered take on art and artists, creativity and our own mortality.

Amongst all the screenings of the incredible 72 documentaries on offer this year, documentary enthusiasts will also partake in the annual Screen Edge Forum and the Gala Awards taking place during the festival.

The Gala Awards, to be held on 3 May, is one of the rare chances in New Zealand where the field of documentary making is celebrated in its own specific awards ceremony. It’s a chance to recognise New Zealand’s filmmaking excellence while praising the best international documentaries that audiences have been fortunate to view during the tenure of the festival.

The highly-influential and important Screen Edge Forum takes place from the second – fourth May at Auckland University of Technology. A three day screen industry event that covers all platforms of filmmaking, questions will arise like: What is transmedia?

How big is the gap in documentary funding and development? The forum also gives participants a chance to hear from seasoned professionals from both New Zealand and abroad, feeding their knowledge in an effort to support New Zealand documentary filmmaking. It also gives filmmakers an opportunity to pitch their projects to funders and broadcasters.

If one of the biggest questions posed is “what is the meaning of life?,” then there should be little doubt why mankind also finds itself asking “where are we heading?” ‘Future Watch’, a spotlight section in the Documentary Edge Festival, hopes to shine a little light on where we are going, and what we can expect – for better or for worse – when we get there.

Four Horsemen sees 23 thinkers, advisors and Wall Street money-men break their silence to explain how the world turns. They lift the lid on how the global economy really works, tapping into a younger generation that senses something is wrong with the disillusionment and unhappiness far reaching in the developed world. Those interviewed explain how we will never return to “business as usual” – and how capitalism has failed. With the global economy on life support for the foreseeable future and events veering out of the control of democratic governments, Four Horsemen is a catalyst to begin a debate around the solutions we urgently need.

Population has been top of the political agenda since dominating the first Earth Day in 1970. While we cannot afford to ignore it, it’s continually a sensitive topic. Mother: Caring for 7 Billion breaks a 40-year taboo to bring to light the problems of overpopulation.

The film follows children’s rights activist and mother Beth, as she discovers the thorny complexities of the population problem. Having adopted an African-born daughter and traveled to Ethiopia, Beth meets Zinet, the oldest daughter of a desperately poor family of 12, who has found the courage to break free from a 1000-year-old cultural barrier.

The encounter changes Beth’s life forever.

We enjoy enormous freedom and flexibility that technology has given us. From bringing independence to a disabled woman through a computer mouse stuck to her forehead; farmers milking their cows with robots; gamers finding it hard to straighten their hunched backs; and a South Korean eco-city exploring computerised life. But is technology taking over our lives? Are we becoming too dependent on it? It seems to be an age old question during this era of technological advancement, yet it’s becoming more pertinent each day. Five Star Existence is a personal and cinematic journey as director Sonja Lindén contemplates the freedom provided by and our dependence on technology.

Work Hard, Play Hard examines the rise of the futuristic, open-plan office space; where receptions look akin to those in five star hotels and the emphasis is on the comfort of the worker, including supplying counselling, IQ and psychological tests to ensure work efficiency. But does this actually work? Take a journey through the post-industrial knowledge and services workplace where time-clocks don’t exist, attention is no longer compulsory and morale remains low. PN

THE DOCUMENTARY EDGE FESTIVAL RUNS UNTIL 13 MAY IN AUCKLAND AND 17 MAY - 3 JUNE IN WELLINGTON. For more information on screenings, bookings and other events, visit www.documentaryedge.org.nz

SEMI-PERMANENT ANNOUNCES FINAL SPEAKER AND DAILY SCHEDULE SEMI-PERMANENT ANNOUNCES FINAL SPEAKER AND DAILY SCHEDULE. WITH just weeks to go until kick-off, Semi-Permanent has announce the addition of its final speaker, New York-based artist and self-proclaimed tinkerer, Kelli Anderson.

Zealand indie creatives will be followed by a whirlwind of knowledge from G. Munk, Swifty, Moffit.Moffit, Benja Harney, Southsouthwest, Alex Trochut and Wallpaper’s Meirion Pritchard.

Perhaps best known for creating a perfectly counterfeited NY Times in 2008, which caught bleary-eyed commuters off guard with stories from a progressive utopian future, Kelli will be speaking from her vast design experience that covers drawing, photography, cutting, and printing. Amongst many projects, Kelli recently created a paper record player that garnered major attention media around the world, and also spoke at TedX in 2011.

Guests better get an early night on the 18th to cope with Day Two which sees Ponsonby’s own Stolen Girlfriends Club kicking off proceedings. The fashion duo will be followed by newly announced speaker Kelli Anderson, The Monkeys, Hi-Res, Stefano De Luigi, Tomas Libertiny, ILM and much-anticipated pop culture guru, Ron English. Full schedule can be found at semipermanent.com/event/Auckland.

From wedding invitations to Utopian newspapers, Kelli Anderson re-designs commonplace objects to go beyond their ordinary functions and create surprising experiences. Her goal is to surprise her audience through the unexpected or absurd – so she’ll no doubt knock audiences’ socks off at this year’s Semi-Permanent event in Auckland.

Semi-Permanent is also pleased to be able to reveal the 2012 schedule – and there won’t be much time to squeeze in a coffee break with the epic line-up. There’s no easing into Day One with Special Group getting things started at 10:30am. The New The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

In addition to the regular run of show, Semi-Permanent will also offer a raft of side events and exhibitions. Paper engineer Benja Harney will be creating a paper MINI Cooper at the Mini Garage in Ponsonby from May 14th, New Zealanders can get an insight in the world of ‘POPaganda’ at the highly anticipated Ron English exhibition at Webb’s from 10 – 20 May. Semi-Permanent is now in its 8th year in NZ, and 10th globally, taking the best and most exciting design experts to Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Dubai and Singapore, New York and London. Tickets are available now – the-edge.co.nz/semipermanent and semipermanent.com. PN DEADLINE – 20TH OF THE MONTH May 2012 PONSONBY NEWS+

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photography: Jo Barrett

BLACK ASTERISK GALLERY

IPANEMA FOOD AND ART SOCIETY

FRIDAY 20 APRIL, PONSONBY

FRIDAY 20 APRIL, PONSONBY

There was a big turn out to the opening night of SIMONE ANDERSON’S - SIDESHOW EMPORIUM. Simone Anderson presented a mixed media carnival of nostalgic works wittily revealing the connected inner reality lurking between the outward veneer of freaks, human marvels and oddities. Sideshow Emporium is a realm where macabre games, nursery rhymes and anthropomorphised animals are particularly disturbing. BLACK ASTERISK GALLERY, 10 Ponsonby Road M: 021 040 1168 www.blackasterisk.co.nz

This family owned business put on a party to remember. With an entertainment area and dance floor to one end and the intimate restaurant to the other, guests were showered with the finest in Brazilian hospitality with music food and wines. IPANEMA FOOD AND ART SOCIETY 2 Ponsonby Road T: 09 360 0655 www.ipanema.co.nz 1. Ana Medina, Vera Regina and Ana Paula; 2. Daniel Moula and Rafael Bonatto; 3. Crowd shot.

1. Black Asterisk Gallery owner Stuart Broughton and artist Simone Anderson; 2. Sarah-Jane Attias, Peta Mathias and Kate Hill; 3. Stuart Broughton and Ronny Haynes

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SIMPLY CHIROPRACTIC LAUNCH FRIDAY 20 APRIL, GREY LYNN Owner of Simply Chiropractic Ali Postles with the support of her family, held an opening party last month in her very contemporary Surrey Crescent studio. There was a big turn-out, delicious finger food was served along with wine and non alcoholic drinks.

Ali’s aim is to provide excellent, gentle and effective chiropractic care.

SIMPLY CHIROPRACTIC 3/29 Surrey Crescent T: 09 360 0280 www.simplychiropractic.co.nz 1. Jay Allnutt and Ali Postles; 2. Jay Allnutt, Ali Postles, Mark and Jackie Postles; 3. Ali Postles and Sam Corban.

TK STORE HOSTS RODEBJER LAUNCH FRIDAY 20 APRIL, GREY LYNN photography: Jo Barrett

Turet Knuefermann owner of TK Store played host at her Brown Street store last month for the launch of, progressive international fashion brand Rodebjer. Guests were encouraged to try on the range of clothes and what fun they had doing it too!

They were also entertained by a four piece Brazilian band, champagne and amazing finger food. TK STORE 50 Brown Street T: 09 361 2020 www.tk.net.nz 1. Turet Knuefermann, Jessica Aggrey, Randa Kassen and Kate Woodruffe; 2. Louise Cleary, Jeanne Clayton and Turet Knuefermann; 3. Turet Knuefermann.

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