PONSONBY NEWS - NOVEMBER '20

Established: OCTOBER 1989

NOVEMBER 2020

CELEBRATING 31 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

AUCKLAND CENTRAL IS LOOKING GREEN! ponsonbynews.co.nz

LOVING, LIVING & SELLING GREATER PONSONBY

BLAIR HADDOW In excess of $350M sales in Greater Ponsonby #1 National Auction Agent 2017-2019 Top 5% Bayleys Salespeople 2010–2020

Blair Haddow 021 544 555 blair.haddow@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/blair-haddow BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, PONSONBY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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

St Marys Bay, 25 Hackett Street

Grey Lynn, 19 Chamberlain Street

Tender (unless sold prior) 5 Nov 2020

Auction (unless sold prior) 11 Nov 2020

Herne Bay, 77 Albany Road

Grey Lynn, 20 Barrington Road

Auction (unless sold prior) 11 Nov 2020

Auction (unless sold prior) 18 Nov 2020

Grey Lynn, 16 Wellpark Avenue

Herne Bay, 2/55 Kelmarna Avenue

Auction (unless sold prior) 18 Nov 2020

Price by negotiation

Grey Lynn, 503/12 Mackelvie Street

Grey Lynn, 502/199 Great North Road

For Sale $1,389,000

Sold September 2020

Residen t ial / Co mmerci al / Rural / P ro pert y Ser v ices

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Connor Crawford

PONSONBY NEWS is published monthly, excluding January by: ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED, P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144, T: 09 378 8553, www.ponsonbynews.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS is printed on paper sourced from sustainable, well managed forests and manufactured under the environmental management system ISO 14001.

PRINTED BY WEBSTAR, AUCKLAND. ISSN 1177-3987

4 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

@ponsonbynews @Ponsonby_News @ponsonbynews

Buenas Tapas Hamper from Sabato Italian Christmas Hamper from Sabato

INSIDE THIS MONTH

006 LETTERS & EMAILS 007 FROM THE EDITOR 010 DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW 016 PIPPA COOM: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA- & GULF 018 RICHARD NORTHEY, WAITEMATA- LOCAL BOARD 022 JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS 028 NOVEMBER STREAMING GUIDE 032 PREDICT WEATHER.COM 034 U3A PONSONBY 036 GREY LYNN AND AROUND 038 PONSONBY PARK 044 HELENE RAVLICH: FASHION & STYLE 047 TRAVEL BREAKS 048 CELEBRATING THE FESTIVE SEASON 052 EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY 060 HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY 062 TADHG STOPFORD 063 LIVING, THINKING + BEING 064 JOHN APPLETON 066 FUTURE GENERATION 067 TEEN PICKS 070 PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS 074 RENOVATIONS 076 HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS 080 HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS 092 PONSONBY PETS 094 ARTS & CULTURE 099 PONSONBY PINK PAGES

Inspiration for celebrating ‘local’ as we head into the festive season - p48.

EDITOR/PUBLISHER: MARTIN LEACH M: 021 771 147 martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: JAY PLATT M: 021 771 146 jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz AD SALES & CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: ANDREA KAHUKIWA M: 021 689 688 andrea@ponsonbynews.co.nz ADVERTISING SALES/AD DESIGNER: MELISSA PAYNTER M: 027 938 4111 melissapaynter@me.com OPERATIONS MANAGER: GWYNNE DAVENPORT M: 021 150 4095 gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz CONTRIBUTING MUSIC EDITOR: FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT M: 021 134 4101 finn.huia@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: JOHN ELLIOTT M: 021 879 054 johnelliott38@outlook.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER: ARNA MARTIN M: 021 354 984 arna@cocodesign.co.nz ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Within New Zealand $49. By cheque or credit card in NZ$. Please note: we do not hold back issues of Ponsonby News.

Our archive is all online as pdfs. Please visit www.ponsonbynews.co.nz The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechaal, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies and manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

AUCKLAND KINDERGARTEN ASSOCIATION ARE TAKING ENROLMENTS NOW! Our kindergartens offer: • Beautiful large outdoor areas • 20 hours free ECE per week • Fully qualified teachers • Play based learning environments

• Long standing history and relationships in your community • An engaged, passionate and welcoming kindergarten team

Ponsonby Kindergarten 22 Ponsonby Terrace, Ponsonby 09 376 4931 ponsonby@aka.org.nz

Grey Lynn Kindergarten 25 Home Street, Grey Lynn 09 378 6941 greylynn@aka.org.nz

Freemans Bay Kindergarten 16 Tahuna Street, Freemans Bay 09 376 2465 freemansbay@aka.org.nz

Westmere Kindergarten 90 Garnet Road, Westmere 09 376 3833 westmere@aka.org.nz

Speak to our teams today or pop in for a visit to experience our kindergartens!

LETTERS & EMAILS

TWELVE ANGRY MEN The landmark macrocarpa tree at the Army Recruiting office which is being reduced to sawdust as I write will be sadly missed. I don’t know if the community or council was consulted.

After receiving this message from the Ponsonby News on Wednesday 23 September, I raced to 189 Great North Road, to defend this magnificent macrocarpa only to be confronted by 12 aggressive men and one woman.

On the outside of the wire fence one of the traffic management crew was so angry that I feared for my safety. A tall man from the Defence Force, dressed in black, his face depersonalised by a solid black mask, towered over me and kept moving within my one metre social distance, attempting to back me away. We were still at Level 3 lockdown. Adrenaline pumping, I stood my ground, all 5’ 1” of it.

When the arborist, Sam, arrived back on site he called me over, “Gael, you know me from Canal Road Tree Protection.” He explained how there had been lots of professional help to save the tree with hawsers holding branches together. But that fight was over.

The rot inside the trunk meant that it wasn’t able to support the weight of its very heavy branches and that had caused a huge vertical split in the trunk made worse by arson a few years ago. The extent of the rot was so bad that they couldn’t count the rings to confirm the age of over 100 years.

This tree had been on the ‘Notable Tree Register’ until the current unitary plan but wasn’t included because of its poor health. The problem with Auckland no longer having ‘tree protection’ is that even the local board weren’t privy to the decision to euthanise our landmark tree. There is no explanation on why the Norfolk pines were also removed. That meant that the community weren’t consulted or informed of this decision. The Defence Force could have reassured community of this unfortunate, whilst necessary decision, by erecting a sign on the fence explaining this big loss to our city.

- Whatua as mana whenua could also have been there to honour Ngati its role as a bird habitat, aesthetic beautifier of our neighbourhood, carbon sequester and oxygen producer, and blessed its spirit in a karakia as an important member of our community.

The high density of apartments in this special housing area means there is a lack of green spaces. Turning this into a pocket park planted with new trees of significant size would enhance the area and put the community’s fears to rest that the intention of tree removal isn’t for another development.

I have approached the Waitemata- Local Board with the pocket park idea. They have passed a motion to investigate that idea with the Ministry of Defence. Fingers crossed!

Gael Baldock, Tree Protector and Community Advocate

MICHAEL OWEN SHEN® THERAPY Deep ease and relaxation Emotional transformation T: 09 376 9599 Email: mowenshens@gmail.com www.emotionalwellbeing.co.nz

A SHOUT OUT TO AUCKLAND COUNCIL I’d like to say a big thank you to whoever runs the gardens for the Auckland Council and particularly Western Park. In recent years the grass has been mown in springtime and the growth of the wild crocus has been halted.

This year those flowers were there in their full glory and what a wonderful sight.

For those of us who use the park regularly it has been a joy over the past month to view the swathes and drifts of mostly white, but also rich golden cream, striped, and even full purple crocus all over the park. We have not had it so lovely for several years. Thank you so much for leaving them. Keep it up do!

Moyra Elliott, Ponsonby Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News.

6 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

This month we will be celebrating diversity at the annual community organised Grey Lynn Park Festival. Come for your Christmas shopping, eat from around the world, enjoy the mix of free music and family friendly fun at Grey Lynn Park, Dryden Street. Diary Date: Saturday 21 November.

Herne Bay resident Greg Moyle is a well-known local. We have known about his project making gardens in local schools for some time. This month he took my colleague on a tour of some of the school gardens he has set up with the help of Rotary.

Glyphosate. The time to ban it is now. With a strong new government in power, and a Green Party local MP, we must push Auckland Council hard to seek and adopt alternative weed control to glyphosate on our streets, berms, parks and reserves. How long must we wait?

photography: Connor Crawford

Post election we have already heard glowing comments about her potential as the MP for one of the most important seats in the country. Her sharp intellect, ability to analyse problems and command of sound bites will be valuable assets during the next three years.

However the outgoing MP Nikki Kaye, who has retired from politics, will be sadly missed.

Martin Leach, Helene Ravlich & Jay Platt

and hospitality folk, end of year festivities are a great reason to do so.

Whether it’s a long lunch, a formal Christmas function or a delicious food basket, the wider Ponsonby area has just about everything you need.

Honour Mitchell’s Teen Picks this month highlights the hot spots this summer. Whether out picnicking with friends, taking a walk, or on the hunt for a place to clear your mind, there are oodles of places to choose from!

Local scribe Helene Ravlich has worked with Ponsonby News for many years. Her new column on local fashion makes its debut this month with her take on linen.

With the property market continuing to gain momentum, favourable interest rates and an abundance of great deals almost everywhere you look, there has possibly never been a better time to invest in your home. Can you still renovate your home or garden in time for this summer? (MARTIN LEACH)  PN

Now that we’re enjoying the social freedom of Covid Alert Level 1, it’s a good time to start planning end-of-year celebrations with friends, family and workmates. Although no one needs an excuse to get out and support some of the country’s talented artists, chefs, musicians

STOP PRESS: The announcement of the closure of Whitecross Medical Centre in the heart of Ponsonby is sad. Along with many other locals I am going to miss them as they have helped me deal with broken arms, cracked ribs and various accidents over the years.

THINGS ARE HEATING UP OUT THERE

M AT T & RYA N N 1 I N G R E Y LY N N*

Appraising Properties Now For Summer Campaigns

Matt O’Rourke 021 375 909

Ryan Harding 021 621 580

m.orourke@barfoot.co.nz

r.harding@barfoot.co.nz

* G re y Ly n n b ra n c h - ye a r e n d i n g M a rc h 2 0 2 0 *#2 Individual Salesperson Central Auckland 2020

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 7

FROM THE EDITOR

Voting is now over and Auckland Central was a Chlöe sensation.

1 Ring Terrace, Saint Mary’s Bay Minimalist Splendour Perfectly positioned within the coveted dress circle of Ring Terrace, this landmark character villa sits with ease atop its elevated corner location. This will be one of the best places in Auckland to enjoy the America’s Cup. Upon entry, you will be immediately struck by the breath-taking outlook across the Westhaven Marina, beyond to Rangitoto, to views from Harbour Bridge to the city and Sky Tower. This outstanding waterfront residence commands space, sophistication, and modern, luxurious minimalism.

Extensively renovated in 2019, this sun-soaked residence features a mixture of striking and subtle design elements whilst keeping the original road facing façade unassumingly beautiful and sympathetic to the heritage streetscape. Inside you will notice an unsurpassed level of attention to detail and quality finish.

1 Ring Terrace is an abode for the romantic and sentimental at heart, those with an eye for the extraordinary and a love for European sophistication and the finer things in life. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for you, the discerning buyer.

4

2

2

Floor: 256 sq m (approx)

AUCTION: On-Site at 12:00 p.m. Thursday 26 November 2020 (Unless Sold Prior) • VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/NZE11297

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

504/9 Hopetoun Street, Freemans Bay Two Level Luxurious Apartment Home This house-sized urban sanctuary provides the ultimate lock-and-leave lifestyle. Your move in will be effortless.

With fastidious attention to detail and a private yet expansive feel, this developers’-own residence is an entirely new build completed in 2016 and crafted for those wanting an apartment without giving up the things we appreciate in a freestanding property.

Apartment 504 is truly, a liveable home graced with many stand-out features simply not available with off-plan alternatives - double glazed floor to ceiling windows, solid American walnut flooring with welcoming parquet entrance, ethereal hand-blown glass designer pendant lighting, a gourmet Poggen Pohl entertainer’s kitchen finished to the very highest standard and much, much more.

In this superb position just off Ponsonby Road, with 180-degree views spanning East-West from Mt Eden along to the heritage buildings nearby, and the Waitakere Ranges, you’ll enjoy absolutely beautiful sunsets and a peaceful aspect. Your new apartment home has been designed for privacy whilst retaining a feeling of connectedness with the characterful Ponsonby neighbourhood.

A rare offering on the Auckland real estate market. The immense demand for established apartments of this quality will ensure this opportunity will not last.

3

2

4

Floor: 201 sq m (approx)

AUCTION: On-site at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday 24 November 2020 (unless sold prior) • VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/NZE11290

CHARLOTTE KOFOED M +64 21 241 9394 charlotte.kofoed@nzsir.com

HAMISH KOFOED M +64 27 655 2250 hamish.kofoed@nzsir.com

LOCAL NEWS

David Hartnell: One minute interview with Glenys Lindsay Glenys Lindsay is an experienced wedding and ceremony celebrant.

How long have you been involved in the wedding industry?

It’s been 13 years. I graduated from the AUT celebrant course in 2007 and have been doing ceremonies ever since!

What motivates you?

I love life and can’t wait to get up to experience another day.

Did you ever imagine that you would see same sex marriage in your life time?

Probably not but am so happy that it was made law as I am passionate about all couples being able to marry, and I also love performing same sex weddings.

What do you think happens when we die?

Our spirit lives on in the spiritual realm. Death is not the end of us as we may come back for many life times.

What would be the most novel wedding ceremony you have been a celebrant at?

The theme was ‘The Game of Thrones’ held at the band rotunda in Albert Park. Everyone, the bride and groom, guests, and myself, wore cloaks in the theme incorporating the authenticity of the ceremony.

Favourite movie?

The Sound of Music - drama and romance played beautifully by Julie Andrews. I just love the ending.

What was your childhood like?

Wonderful. Families were connected and knew everyone else and there was great support. Holidays were spent on a relative’s farm or in summer at a family bach on Waiheke.

Complete the sentence. I will die happy if...

Knowing I have passed on all knowledge and skills to my two children to ensure that they are well equipped to face whatever confronts them in the future.

Give your teenage self some advice.

Listen to the wisdom of oldies and don’t sweat the small stuff.

How do you chill out? Sewing or reading.

Which item of clothing can’t you live without?

A long-line black and white wool cardigan I have had for many years.

Favourite time of the day? After dinner relaxing.

Your dream home? An old church in the country.

Which TV series would you never miss and why?

Married at First Sight. I started to watch in order to critique the celebrants but then I became hooked!

Favourite holiday destination? Anywhere in Italy.

What’s on your bucket list?

To take a helicopter ride, to visit New York, and ride the Japanese bullet train.

What is the most kiwi thing about you? My strong sense of justice.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Performing weddings in my cottage in the country.

If they were to make a movie about your life who would you like to play you?

Barbra Streisand.

Most treasured possession?

A beautiful garnet ring, which always looks and feels perfect on my hand.

What are you insecure about?

The great thing about getting older is that you lose your insecurities.

I don’t really have any.

Tell us something very few people know about you.

I visited the Pukekohe car race track many times and would have loved to have raced my Mini Minor there.

Greatest fear? Heights.

Who’s your favourite hero of fiction and why?

Wonder Woman — she is beautiful and perfect.

What gizmo can you simply not live without? My can opener.

If you were reincarnated what would you be? An elephant.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

My feet.

Your greatest weakness/indulgence?

My miniature schnauzer, Hannah. She is treated as a child and goes everywhere with me.

Do you read movie or TV reviews and do they sway your thought?

I don’t take too much notice of reviews, but will watch a programme if it appeals to me.

Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person?

Definitely a hug person.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who has made a difference to another’s life through love, guidance and empathy.

Your dream guest list for a dinner party and why?

Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, Princess Diana and the Dalai Lama — their wisdom knows no bounds.

What do you love most about your age?

The wisdom I have acquired through life’s experiences.

Do you travel light or heavy? Heavy.

Something that you really disapprove of?

Bad grammar on radio and TV! Your biggest disappointment?

Not having a loving relationship with my mother.

10 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

What is your comfort food? My daughter’s nachos.

If you could change one law or policy in New Zealand, what would it be?

All non-New Zealand citizens and residents should be required to pay for hospital stays. If they have no insurance or money then they cannot be PN admitted for treatment. (DAVID HARTNELL MNZM)  www.aucklandcelebrant.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

Celebrating diversity at the annual community organised Grey Lynn Park Festival Diary Date: Saturday 21 November The festival is on with more diversity, cultural and artistic events.

Come for your Christmas shopping, eat from around the world, enjoy our mix of free music and family friendly fun at Grey Lynn Park, Dryden Street, Grey Lynn.

New Zealand art, craft, fine fare, music and dance – it’s all there to enjoy without burning a hole in your pocket. Stroll through the gypsy village and meet up with those who prefer the mobile home to the city pad. Kids can enjoy Larry & Rosie’s Fun Fair, Farmyard Fun and other activities.

Discover a few new farmer market stalls, learn about permaculture, crafts, and sustainable living at the Talk Tent. Watch out for the bin fairies! Machine Park gives lovers of steam engines a treat and a yarn. Engage with the Circus Kumarani, Marimba Carimbas, AK Samba, and Capoeira performance.

The festival has a new feature this year named ‘Tent Talks’ to educate and empower communities to connect with their ecosystems.

A curated selection of biodiversity campaigners, environmentalists, and urban planners will speak throughout the day.

We have a great line up of live music this year, some up and coming young musicians from the greater Auckland area.

Base FM The Dawns Raiza Biza Amila Jarni Blair Beachware Illbaz John’s Comb Laiika Lepani Half Queen Sojourn Base FM djs and friends.

The festival runs from 9.30am to 6pm. Don’t forget it’s an EFTPOS free environment so put cash in your pocket, suntan lotion on your body and a smile on your dial. Remember we are a zero waste festival so put your waste in the right bin and we will compost it or recycle it.

If you wish to get involved with next year’s event, send us your brief CV or ideas. Email: greylynnparkfestival@gmail.com The Grey Lynn Park Festival is a community event that is managed by a registered non-profitable trust called the Grey Lynn Park Festival Trust. www.greylynnparkfestival.org  PN

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 11

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

It’s a team effort... we couldn’t do it without our contributors CONNOR CRAWFORD

JOHN ELLIOTT

I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective. I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.

I am the founder of Ponsonby News and write for the magazine. My career has included politics, education and publishing. My interests include the environment, the economy and social justice.

DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM

KEN RING

FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

KERRY LEE

GARY STEEL

LUCY KENNEDY

For the last 53 years I’ve been a freelance entertainment journalist and author. I’ve lived in the Grey Lynn area for nearly three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.

I work as a booker, promoter and festival programmer. Active in all areas of the music community; folk music is my specialty.

I am a veteran writer and editor and run two websites – Witchdoctor and Doctor Feelgood – focusing on my interests in music, technology, and the wellbeing of the planet and its denizens.

My yearly NZ Weather Almanacs began in 1999. During the tragic 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, my work created international interest. I currently live in Ponsonby.

I’ve been a freelance writer for a year now, and what I love most are the wonderful people I’ve meet along the way. #best job.

I am a young local writer who loves to read! Each month you will find my reviews of new books for people who love to read as much as I do.

HONOUR MITCHELL

PHIL PARKER

HELENE RAVLICH

PIPPA COOM

A freelance writer and copywriter for almost 20 years, I have written for publications all over the world and couldn’t imagine myself in any other job.

I am Councillor for Waitemata- and Gulf ward on Auckland Council. Formerly, Chair WaitemataLocal Board.

JOHN APPLETON

ROSS THORBY

I have lived in the Ponsonby area all of my life.

I write the column ‘Teen Picks’ which explores everything on offer in the greater Ponsonby area.

I have a keen interest in nutritional medicine and how it may be used to support people with chronic illnesses.

Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.

I have had a wanderlust for travel ever since I was old enough to own a passport. Since I discovered cruising, I have become unstoppable.

Join us on Sundays at 2pm... for our weekly service including demonstrations of clairvoyance.

25 New North Road, Eden Terrace / www.goldenlight.org.nz

12 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Small class sizes.

Huge opportunities!

MAKE THEIR SENIOR SCHOOL YEARS COUNT.

When it comes to making sure your teenager is in the best possible learning environment, inspiring teachers and motivated peers make all the difference.

Kristin Senior School provides:

• High quality staff in teaching, leadership, wellbeing, digital learning and other support roles

• Small class sizes (13 students on average) and state-of-theart equipment and facilities

• The choice to study NCEA or the IB Diploma Programme with

a vast range of subject options and co-curricular opportunities

• A strong focus on student wellbeing, and a positive culture of success and aspiration, and so much more!

Take a tour and see for yourself! Limited places still available for 2021.

Visit kristin.school.nz or call our Admissions Manager on 09 415 9566 ext 2324.

Kristin is located at 360 Albany Highway, Albany with dedicated buses across Auckland.

An Entry level Power Move 82A Sackville Street, Grey Lynn Auction Nic Blackie 021 505 964 nic.blackie@raywhite.com

@nicblackie_

This 1920s cottage links you to everywhere you want to be. Super easy living and incredibly safe buying into ever popular West Lynn. Outdoor living is private and facing north — what a great starter or equally a perfect lock and leave.

FB.com/nicblackierealestate

The Grey Lynn Original 2 Millais Street, Grey Lynn Auction Nic Blackie 021 505 964 nic.blackie@raywhite.com

Sitting pretty just off Ponsonby Road, this big old eclectic villa has an x-factor about it that offers just a little more stretch than is the case with most local do-ups.

A spectacular summer project in the perfect spot!

DAMERELL GROUP LIMITED LICENSED (REAA 2008)

LOCAL NEWS

Pippa Coom: A new government to deliver for Auckland The dust is still settling following an historic election result. Congratulations to all the successful candidates and their hard-working campaign teams.

The final vote may not have been declared and the government yet to be formed (at time of writing) however, at council we are wasting no time preparing the briefing to the incoming government highlighting Auckland’s key challenges and the issues that need urgent attention. The briefing is traditionally fronted by the mayor in a series of meetings with ministers in Wellington as soon as the government is formed.

The challenges Auckland faced before COVID-19, investing to accommodate growth, sharing prosperity, and reducing environmental degradation, remain as important as ever but with the added difficulty of reduced income to meet them. The challenge of climate change is also becoming more urgent. The number of Aucklanders at risk has increased with COVID-19 and the task of meeting their needs has become more pressing.

Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on Auckland Council’s finances, we are redoubling efforts to keep up our capital expenditure programme to support jobs and the economic recovery.

The scale and complexity of Auckland means our relationship with government is different from other local authorities. Effective partnership with government is essential to Auckland’s future.

We have a rare opportunity to work with, what is very likely to be a fully aligned and supportive government, to really move forward on shared outcomes for Tamaki Makaurau.

I would like to see the new government accelerate the rapid transport network and the pathway over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. We need plans for electric buses to be brought forward and urgent investment and incentives to decarbonise the transport system in order to have any chance of meeting our target of reducing our greenhouse gas

emissions by 50% over the next 10 years. Housing is going to be a big focus area with council supporting further reform by government to improve access to high quality, affordable housing for Aucklanders.

During the lockdown, extensive support was offered to people who were homeless.This is currently funded until early 2021. Ensuring a path from emergency accommodation to stable, secure longterm housing with wrap-a-round services to deal with causes of homelessness, such as mental health and addiction, is critical.

Auckland Council works closely with the Housing First organisations and is strongly supportive of government assistance to these groups.

There’s mounting public concern in Auckland about the destruction of significant mature and indigenous trees on private land, following changes in the last decade removing RMA protection of such trees.

Council supports legislative change enabling councils to protect trees.

This is just a snapshot of the briefing. There are many areas where council wishes to partner with government to deliver for Auckland to meet the challenges of the post COVID-19 world.

Chlöe Swarbrick has pulled off a stunning upset in taking a seat for the Greens. I’ve appreciated a positive working relationship with outgoing Auckland Central MP Nikki Kaye covering our shared constituents that I’m sure will continue with the changing of the guard. Chlöe is well aware of the electorate’s concerns regarding homelessness, green spaces, transportation and inequality. Action on restoring the Hauraki Gulf is another issue. It’s clear we have many shared priorities that I’m looking forward to working together on. (PIPPA COOM)  PN Contact Pippa Coom via pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

First catchup with new Auckland Central MP Chlöe Swarbrick

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

Fairy Clare to perform at Parnell Festival of Roses For the 26th year in a row one of Auckland’s most beloved child dance educators will perform at WaitemataLocal Board’s upcoming Parnell Festival of Roses.

Battersby developed her Fairy Clare alter ego during the mid-90s when she was teaching at the Melbourne Botanic Gardens.

“Fairy Clare has been with the festival since the beginning. Her performances are enjoyed by children and adults alike.”

She went on to develop shows performed in botanic gardens around the world including in Auckland. Called the Fairy Trails, the shows ran over school holidays and were attended by thousands.

The child dance educator choreographs and produces outdoor shows based on contemporary dance with themes of nature and environmental protection.

The Fairy Trails led to Battersby’s involvement in the Parnell Festival of Roses, where she performs interactive dance to protect the rose gardens, inviting participation from children and people of all ages.

“I’m passionate about connecting children to dance, play, and the environment,” she says.

The Parnell Festival of Roses will be held on Sunday 15 November from 11:30am to 4pm at Dove Myer Robinson Park in Parnell. Follow the event on Facebook for the latest updates.  PN

Parnell Festival of

ROSES

Sunday 15 November, 11.30am to 4pm Parnell Rose Gardens Music

Entertainment

FREE FA M I LY FUN

21-PRO-0387_PN

Local Board chair Richard Northey says the local board are delighted to welcome back Fairy Clare to once again join the much-loved festival.

Food Stalls

Find out more: parnellroses@aklc.govt.nz or Facebook.com/waitemata PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 17

LOCAL NEWS

Richard Northey: Waitemat-a Local Board Chair

Parnell Festival of Roses

The Waitemat-a Local Board, like everyone else, is adapting to the end of a COVID-19 lockdown and of a general election campaign.

At its meeting on 20 October the Waitemata- Local Board resolved formally to congratulate the successful election candidates, particularly the electorate MPs who now represent our Board area, Jacinda Ardern, Chlöe Swarbrick, David Seymour and Peeni Henare, and undertook to work with them to advance the interests of our area and its people. We are also fortunate to have committed and capable List MPs who stood for our electorates: Melissa Lee, Helen White, Paul Goldsmith, Camilla Belich and Marama Davidson.

Now we are back to Level 1 we can participate in and enjoy public events. The Waitemata- Local Board’s main annual event is the Parnell Festival of Roses. This will be held in the Rose Gardens and Dove Myer Robinson Park off Gladstone Road in Parnell on Sunday 15 November from 11:30am to 4pm. This is a great family celebration of fun, music, food, and community stalls and enjoying the beautiful roses, which should be in full bloom at that time. I look forward to seeing you there.

Another wonderful festival that the Waitemat-a Local Board supports, the Festival Italiano, will be taking place the previous Sunday 8 November from 11am to 5pm. This is a great celebration of Italian food, products and culture taking place in the pedestrianised streets Osborne Street, Kent Street and Teed Street behind the Rialto Cinema in Newmarket.

The future of the Leys Institute will be decided early next year by Council’s governing body as part of its decision making on Council’s Long Term Plan. In September the Waitemata- Local Board resolved unanimously to “endorse the... restoration, modernisation and seismic remediation of Leys Institute... as soon as practicable.” The Board also resolved to “recognise that there is strong community support for the early restoration and enhanced public use of the Leys Institute buildings”.

The restoration of the Leys Institute buildings and the creation of a park at 254 Ponsonby Road will be major points in the Board’s own advocacy to the Governing Body about what should be prioritised in Council’s next Long-Term Plan. When the time comes, early next year, it would be helpful for you to make a submission about this.

We carried out a consultation with our local community about our proposed Waitemata- Local Board Plan. At a special 3 November

18 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

meeting we will decide on which of your ideas are priorities and that we have the capacity to respond to, to put in our Board Plan, which will guide our actions for the next three years.

At our special 3 November meeting we will also consider the future of the forest on the eastern slopes of the Western Springs Park.

Because of their age and disease, many of the pine trees there are now believed to represent a danger and therefore that part of the park has had to be closed. The Board has long wanted to help grow a healthy restored and regenerating native forest there. We are talking with the Western Springs community and with independent experts so we can decide whether this can best be achieved by the full removal of the pine stand or by gradual selective pine tree removal over several years.

Ponsonby Road has been chosen as one of four projects in the Waitemata- Local Board area for the Innovating Streets Tactical Urbanism Programme. We resolved at our meeting to ask Auckland Transport to work closely with the Ponsonby community and businesses to make the Ponsonby Road corridor safer and more user friendly for fun, getting around and business growth.

Because of the continuing drought we all still need to limit our water use. Although the Board office will remain closed at times with staff and Board members working from home, I can be contacted on 021 534 546 or E: richard.northey@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz (RICHARD NORTHEY)  PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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LOCAL NEWS

John Elliott: Greg Moyle shows me around his school gardens He’s quite the local benefactor, Greg Moyle, as many of us know and I have known about his project making gardens in local schools for some time.

This month he took me on a cook’s tour of some of the school gardens he has set up with the help of Rotary. These gardens were initiated by Greg about seven years ago, and some are growing lots of food and are well tended.

Greg has something of a garden menagerie in his extensive backyard in Herne Bay where he gathers eggs from his little army of chooks, and fruit and vegetables which he grows there and on a farm property south of Auckland. These are sold at the markets to provide revenue for the timber, bolts and compost he needs for his boxed vegie gardens. His produce includes honey, figs, avocados, walnuts, pears, almonds and macadamias.

A few of Greg’s mates from Rotary prefabricate the gardens from sleepers bolted together and ready for planting once soil and compost are added. Kings Garden Centre manager, Simon, has been very supportive and regularly supplies broken bags, and other discounted material.

There are twelve schools in the project. I visited one of the most productive in the group, Mount Albert Primary School whose extensive gardens are a sight to be seen. The gardens do best where a teacher or two take the lead and help students learn how to garden.

Students learn about fruit and vegetables they only see otherwise in supermarkets.

The gardens don’t take up much space. Pt Chevalier St Francis School is another school growing great food.

One of the first schools Greg Moyle set up was Ponsonby Primary, where his own children were pupils. We called in there to inspect and chatted with senior staff who were full of praise for Greg’s generous contribution to their school. (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

John Elliott: Leys Institute’s future safe for now Ponsonby News was delighted with the Waitemata Local Board’s categorical assurance that the Leys Building will be restored and returned to life as our iconic Ponsonby Library.

We must now be sure that there is no backtracking - no prevarications, no obfuscations, no long delays. Richard Northey - please just get it done.

We’re asking this at a time of major money shortages in Auckland Council, and at Government level. But, priorities are priorities, and we must insist that Leys stays near the top.

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

The Friends of Leys group, of which I am member #200, will keep the pressure on.

We could also save $800,000 by not chopping down all the pines in the Western Springs forest. The Waitemata Board should do some urgent prioritising and leave the pines, at least for now.

(JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The whole Custom team would like to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone, in our local community and further afield, for supporting us over the last twelve years.

After seventeen years in the industry, John Wills is stepping away from real estate sales, to instead dedicate more time to Custom Property Management.

A new and exciting sales partnership has been formed between Keith & Sandy Dowdle and Ray White Damerell Group in Grey Lynn.

This partnership will be utilising and maximising the very best of what both companies have offered clients in this very special neck of the woods.

Our little local start-up business kicked off in 2008, while the GFC was in full swing.

We were certainly welcomed into the marketplace with plenty of local support,

and over the last twelve years we have seen many market environments come and go.

As at the date of handover, we have successfully completed 1,078 sales, a huge achievement in this highly competitive city-fringe location.

It has been a privilege to work with you and, once again: thank you.

We love this area, as well as its entrepreneurial lets-get-on-with-it attitude.

Have a wonderful summer and stay safe out there.

John Wills, Keith & Sandy Dowdle and the Custom team

LOCAL NEWS

John Elliott: Ponsonby Business Association — planning post-Covid Ponsonby has a lot going for it. Our heritage and culture makes us a very attractive destination, not only for our own residents, but for local and international visitors.

I talked with Ponsonby Business Association Chief Executive, Viv Rosenberg, about future developments. They are excited about an Auckland Transport initiative called ‘tactical urbanism’. I wrote a little about this in an October Ponsonby News article. I think it might be difficult to promote activities for kids and families without disrupting traffic too much on Ponsonby Road, but small innovative activities and hardware, temporary or permanent if very successful, could be good for Three Lamps and around Western Park.

Ponsonby has a great slogan... ‘Love your hood and they’ll love you back.’

In blunter terms, as I used to say when I first started the Ponsonby Community Newsletter in 1989, “Stay local, shop local, support your local businesses.” Current editor, Martin Leach echoes those sentiments.

I was telling Viv Rosenberg a little story to illustrate this support. She suggested I tell it here. When my son was about 12 he ordered the next Harry Potter book from Novel, up the road from home on Jervois Road. The day before the release, Novel owner Andrew Maben phoned us to say he could not match the ‘loss leader’ price being offered by the chain bookstores, and he would understand if we cancelled. We said no, we want to support our small local shops and Finn’s order would stand. Andrew is still there at Novel, 15 years later.

It’s an old story, but it’s still relevant today.

If we look out for each other, our community will survive, thrive and grow.

Let’s do this. (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN www.facebook.com/iloveponsonbynz

John Elliott: Glyphosate - The time to ban it is now I recently spoke with the Environmental Protection Authority in Wellington about a review of the poisonous glyphosate, present in popular herbicide, Roundup.

A review, under the Hazardous Substances Act is possible, but I was unable to speak to the new chief scientist, Professor Mike Bunce, who strangely has been seconded to the Health Ministry for three months.

No one would tell me what that was all about.

Now, with a new strong government in power, and a Green Party local MP, we must push Auckland Council hard to seek and adopt alternative weed control on our street berms parks and reserves.

The status quo tells us alternatives are too expensive, but when cancers proliferate in our young people and begin to manifest sometimes years later, New Zealand could well be in the same position as the USA and many other countries where the makers of Roundup and other chemicals are being sued for billions of dollars.

Remember, German pharmaceutical firm Bayer, bought Monsanto, maker of glyphosate products for 62 billion dollars - for cash!

Ponsonby News will continue to call for the banishment of glyphosates until it happens. This is not a recent whim. There has been consistent pressure to ban it for years, well before I entered the fray, but as a student in the late 1950s I worked for a helicopter spraying gorse and willows with 2,4,D and 2,4,5,T - the dreaded ingredient of agent orange in Vietnam. I have suffered some non-specific illnesses which the famous Dr Matt Tizard said were almost certainly herbicide poisons.

It’s 60 years since Rachel Carson’s famous book Silent Spring, led to the banning of DDT. How long must we wait? (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

John Elliott: The Supreme Court of the USA — Worries I know we can only handle one election at a time, but the Presidential election looms in the USA. Much commentary centres on whether Americans can get rid of Trump, and polls suggest Biden has a good chance of winning. Biden was only about my fifth choice for Democratic nominee, but he will be a steady, if only one term, president.

The senate race is very important too. Biden will still have his hands tied if the Democrats don’ t flip the senate, currently held 53-47 by the Republicans. There are half a dozen seats looking likely to flip, so Democrats might just be lucky. Keep a watch on Arizona, Colorado, North Carolina, Maine as most likely, followed by Georgia, Montana, even Iowa and Kansas.

But it is the make up of the Supreme Court that worries me most.

Appointments are made for life, and by the president. Trump has seen three deaths in his first term and already appointed two real right wingers. He is trying to appoint a replacement for liberal icon

24 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

Ruth Bader Ginsburg who died aged 87 just recently. If confirmed, and Trump has the senate majority to push it through, Amy Coney Barrett would make the court 6-3 - stacked by conservatives.

The Supreme Court has major powers over issues like abortion, gay marriage, immigration, women’s issues, voting rights and conditions.

One fear is that a conservative court could overturn the 1973 Roe v Wade decision which granted women abortion rights.

A democratic senate is a strong handbrake on a Republican President, but let’s hope Biden gets in and the senate flips to Democrat.

The US Presidential election is on 3 November, (4 November New Zealand time), but the final result might take days, even weeks, especially if Trump refuses to go if beaten. Third world drama in a first world country. (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

Hotel Fitzroy Neighbourhood Drinks event, Ponsonby - 15 October

Row 1: Alexandra Sharp & Jemma Standley; Ani Santos, Nicky Tilsley & Trish Kennedy; Chris Dickinson & Terry Holt Row 2: Flox & Ru Michelle; Grace Barry; James Powell, Rebekah Hasloch & Lisa Breckon Row 3: Carol Mendes, Taika Waititi & Chris Dickinson Row 4: Jess Pascoe & Amelia Hooper; Jemma Kogut, Tingting Yin, Tracey Ha & Danielle Moore; Lara Hares, Sara Milivojevic & Liz Egorova Row 5: Sonita Azizia & Anthony Bayer; Stephanie Lai & Clare Calvert; Stephanie Rice & Natalie Allan

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This month you can stay home and stream some great comedy or celebrate going to the cinema with three exceptional documentary films that are part of this year’s ‘Auckland Live’.

At the Civic Theatre on November 22 Doc Edge is premiering three films: the Emmy nominated The Apollo, (free screening so bookings essential), the world premier of The Man on the Island by local filmmaker Simon Mark Brown, and The Painter and the Thief. Loosely following the documentary genre is the latest iteration by Sasha Baron Cohen, crossing boundaries in more ways than genre, it is a film that reflects a time.

NETFLIX

HornDog Winner of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Horndog can now be accessed by even more Kiwis via Neon. “It’s an hour of sensitive comedy by a 27 year old piscean. It’s a silly show about love,” explains Rose Matafeo at the very beginning of the show, which is mostly true. Love is indeed the theme and the view through the lens of this very self-aware woman is totally hilarious.

However you get more than that when Matafeo completely redefines the word ‘horny’. It’s also a glimpse into the tricky balance we all try to maintain between success, love and life. It’s always funny but it’s also often insightful in examining the conflicts of modern living and relationships, something we may all find useful this year. 

Cobra Kai This is another great one to share with the kids. If you were ever a fan of Ralph Macchio and the Karate Kid film, this series is the ultimate way to reminisce about the 80s and still keep things relevant. Arch enemies Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence are given a back-story that will resonate with any original fan and there’s a great story hook for the younger generation. In the first season this drama never fails to please and you can’t help but empathise and root for the Karate Kid’s nemesis, Johnny Lawrence. With the original actors reprising their roles as middle aged men to perfection, these characters are extremely well rounded. As they struggle to reconcile issues from their past, the series oozes an authenticity that makes it even more compelling while always being a fun watch. 

Cobra Kai on NETFLIX

Ralph Macchio and Reese TinLee photography: Jace Downs

NEON

Rose Matafeo, HornDog on NEON

Scotty Morrison Origins on TVNZ OnDemand

NOVEMBER STREAMING GUIDE

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PRIME

Artefact Series 1 Hosted by Dame Anne Salmond, Artefact is a beautifully shot series that reveals the surprising and sometimes complex historical stories that surround some of Aotearoa’s most interesting taonga. The themes contextualising each episode are designed to make the viewer think, and with a new era of politics some of the questions posed in the first series may have even more chance of being answered. The artefacts in the series all have powerful stories and encourage everyone to consider what kind of world and country we want our children to inherit.  TVNZ OnDemand

The Man on the Island, DocEdge at the Civic

Origins “Join me as I travel across the world and through time,” says host Scotty Morrison as he begins his journey of discovery to find Hawaiki. Over three episodes Morrison opens his mind to see what happens when oral history meets contemporary science. He exposes the mistakes of historians past and explores the stories of our pacific neighbours to reveal more truth than some may imagine.

From Rarotonga and Taiwan, to Ethiopia and back to Aotearoa, the audience is taken on an informative and visually inspiring journey in search of an origin, a place where it all began and the connection to Aotearoa. Does the real answer lie with the 3.2 million year old ‘Lucy’ now resting in the National Museum of Ethiopia? Or are there more questions that need to be asked and understood? Educational and entertaining viewing.  AMAZON PRIME VIDEO

Dame Anne Salmond, Artefact on Prime TV

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm Borat returns to the US of A after 14 years of exile. Continuing a style of comedy that made him a household name, Sacha Baron Cohen continues to push the boundaries and surprise the audience with his incredible audacity. It is hard to tell where reality begins and fiction ends but that is possibly part of the point. When Borat was last unleashed on America his stunts and opinions seemed shocking; this time the people he targets are almost too scary to be real. While there are a few cringe worthy comedy moments, the social commentary that underlines the film is disturbingly accurate. 

DON’T MISS OUR CHRISTMAS ISSUE

IT’S OUR FINAL ISSUE OF THE YEAR… Remind our readers about your products and services We have last minute Christmas shopping ideas + Festive dining & entertaining + Ponsonby News summer holiday reading list + Helene Ravlich shares her tips on summer styles Our mantra has always been to shop local, support local and love local...

To book your space in our DECEMBER/JANUARY ISSUE email martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz or call 021 771 147 or 09 378 8553

www.ponsonbynews.co.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 29

LOCAL NEWS

John Elliott: The Election - That Word Again - ‘Unprecedented’ I have followed New Zealand elections since 1954 when as a schoolboy in Whangarei I supported my cousin, Don (later Sir Donald) McKay to become the National Party MP for Whangarei.

My family were farming stock, and my grandparents on my mother’s side were founding members of the National Party.

66 years and 22 elections later, I saw a remarkable victory by Jacinda Ardern’s Labour Party. The first outright victory of the MMP era.

My pre-vote prediction was close, but although my National days are long gone and I am a Green Party member, I thought Chlöe Swarbrick might fall short.

As the old Meat Loaf song goes — Two out of three ain’t bad — we’ve got Helen White on the Labour list. I’m sure the young National candidate, Emma Mellow, will soon have her day.

But Auckland Central was a Chlöe sensation. Post election I have already heard glowing comments about her potential as the MP for one of the most important seats in the country. Her sharp intellect, ability to analyse problems, command of sound bites, will be valuable assets during the next three years.

The three-year term already under her belt has shown her mature, learn to listen better, and gain extensive knowledge of major issues facing New Zealand and the world.

Chlöe Swarbrick, in contrast to most National Party politicians is a woman for now, for the times, not a yesterday’s person. If Labour tries to be too centrist, it will be up to Chlöe and her green colleagues to pull her back to the left, where all the international action on climate change, black lives matter, immigration, fossil fuels, species extinction and environmental degradation, is happening. Labour needs the Greens, and they ignore them at their peril.

Of course National will have a serious postmortem, and they need to, but just now they seem to be in some denial about exactly what caused their defeat.

Covid played a part, because Jacinda handled the pandemic to international acclaim. But National, many of them older white males, are living in yesterday’s New Zealand. The same is happening in Australia, the UK and the USA; tired old white governments. Let’s hope some of National’s front bench, largely now list MPs, do the decent thing and retire.

How exciting to see the youth and diversity of our new MPs. Sixteen of Labour’s 22 newbies are women, and an impressive line up for Jacinda to corral. Not that I think loyalty will be any issue. These newbies are there largely because of Jacinda Ardern.

Just a word on Winston. I’ve known him for nearly 50 years, and he’s always been a likeable rogue. He was a good Foreign Minister, but his time is up; off fishing to Whananaki Winnie.

I’ll miss Nikki Kaye, too, although she knows I never voted for her. She tried to get me to join the blue-greens and I tried to get her to cross the floor a couple of times. Go well dear friend.

So that’s it. Now the mahi, as they say, begins apace.

We also have a very capable Helen White as a Labour list MP. Helen will be a good entre to Labour ministers, and I expect she and Chlöe will work somewhat in tandem on some issues.

Congratulations to the winners, especially Chlöe as MP and Helen as list MP. I know you’ll both do us proud in the halls of power.

(JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN

John Elliott: Auckland Transport - at it again The assault on cars goes on in central Auckland.

I have said time and time again that cycling is healthy and pollutionfree. Walking is good for one’s health too, but the end of cars is still some time away. Maybe petrol cars will go soon.

understood that Ponsonby streets differed greatly, and they said they knew cars on John Street had to park partly on their berms or emergency vehicles had no chance of getting through.

I spoke to several residents of Islington Street, Ponsonby who are angry at AT. They are happy to have resident parking permits in their street. Commuters from the fringes of Auckland who used to park all day in Islington Street are gone.

Islington Street is wide and spacious, they maintained. There should be a flexible programme to manage city vehicles. One called the current policy, “pick and mix, random decisions”.

But recently, this street has been hit by zealous random ticketing.

Cars parked on entrances to homes, where large, wide berms make disruption minimal, have been ticketed citing a City bylaw of 2004.

One of the angry residents told me she had lived there 18 years and never been ticketed before. “Are they a bit short on revenue,” she asked. None of the cars of these residents ever obstructed other vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians.

These people maintain their own berms (owned nevertheless by the council), and park only in their own driveways, never on the berms.

The home owners Ponsonby News spoke to explained that they

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

They pointed out that the Franklin Road upgrade had included parking pads for residents.

“They know my rego”, one woman told me. “It’s registered for my parking permit. They know I’m parking outside my own home.”

Once again the virtually autonomous CCO, Auckland Transport, has proved dictatorial and uncompromising. This must change.

We need much more bottom-up citizen involvement if our city is to grow harmoniously and we are to enhance the sense of community and not destroy it. (JOHN ELLIOTT)  PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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LOCAL NEWS

Ken Ring: Weather by the moon Auckland Weather diary, November 2020 November has average rain, and although cooler, is sunnier than average.

Expect scattered showers and fine spells for the first two weeks. The third week is the driest and has the most sunny days, and is also the coolest. The fourth week sees the heaviest rain. The best weekend is the 17th/18th, (the night of the 17th may plunge to around 5°C).

Atmospheric pressures should average about 1018mbs, with winds from the south or southwest on about 20 days.

For fishermen, the highest kingtide may be around 17th. The best fishing bite-times in the east are at dusk on 1st- 3rd, 16th- 18th, and 31st (and in the west around noon on those days). Chances are also good in the east for noon of 9th- 11th, and 23rd- 25th, (and in the west around dusk on those days).

For gardeners, the best pruning days are 3rd- 9th (waning moon descending), and 18th- 22nd are best sowing days (waxing moon ascending).

For longer shelf-life for crops, harvest at neap tide days on 10th and 25th. Allow 24 hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING)  PN For future weather for any date, see www.predictweather.com

@ Leys Little Library Kia ora Koutou. It has been a year of many changes and upheavals here at Leys Institute Little Library.

And the changes keep coming.

It is with mixed feelings we bid farewell to Sarah-Jane who has left us take on an exciting new job opportunity at Parnell Library. While we will miss her terribly, we wish her all the best in her new role. If you find yourself near Parnell Library, drop by and say ‘kia ora’.

As I write this (and hopefully while you read this) we are still at Level 1, with our regular programs in full swing. So please bring your little ones along to Ponsonby Baptist Church on Wednesdays (till the end of term) to enjoy a fun morning of songs, rhymes, bubbles and my questionable signing. Wriggle and Rhyme is at 10am followed by Tamariki Time at 11am. Tamariki Time has stories and is more active for older pre-schoolers.

Yes, it’s that time of this year where we say, ‘I can’t believe it’s nearly Christmas’. To ease the stress of this busy period we thought we would provide a few suggestions.

Perhaps your family is expecting handmade Christmas presents after your spurt of lockdown crafting enthusiasm? But you have since decided handicrafts isn’t your thing. Then, why not ensure your loved ones never request your handicrafts again?

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

Crafting with Cat Hair: Cute Handicrafts to Make with Your Cat by Kaori Tsutava shows you how to upcycle all that fur your cat is shedding in the warmer weather into unique crafted gifts like finger puppets, coin purses and tote bags. Yes, that’s right, cat fur is the medium for this craft book.

And if you are in charge of hosting a family Christmas and you are looking for a way to politely say ‘never ask me to do this again’ may we suggest Amy Sedaris’s book, ‘I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence’. Amy’s helpful hosting suggestions will make you giggle and if you follow through with Amy’s advice, you’ll never be trusted with another family occasion.

We do of course have a huge range of crafting and cookery books to assist you in making this year’s festivities a genuine success as well.

Not to mention the great range of food magazines available from our eCollections, including my Christmas go-to Cuisine.  PN Open Monday – Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm.

LEYS INSTITUTE LITTLE LIBRARY, 14 Jervois Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

WHAT’S HAPPENING PONSONBY CENTRAL What’s happening at PonsonbyATCentral After spending many moons drilling into the ground, the old parking behind Ponsonby Central has been transformed into a brand new underground car park with double the parking capacity.

With over 80 new car parks, the entry is now on Brown Street and it’s the perfect spot in Ponsonby to avoid the inevitable ‘looking for a park’ tour of the surrounding streets. With the next steps to build more of the Ponsonby Central you love now underway, watch this space for more shops, eateries and office spaces in the future.

ar Parks 80 COPEN! OverNOW

LANEWAY SESSIONS SATURDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 6PM

There is no better feeling than listening to live music in the Ponsonby Central laneway with a beverage in hand.

On Saturday 21st November Laughton Kora, of KORA fame, will be your beat backdrop at Bedford Soda & Liquor from 6pm. Not to be missed.

Your favourite market is back just in time for Christmas shopping.

The Sapphire Room at Ponsonby Central is hosting the annual General Collective Christmas market on Sunday 22nd November.

Pop in to shop some of New Zealand’s best makers, designers and creators for gifts to treasure.

CHRISTMAS MARKET 10AM - 3PM

SUNDAY 22 NOV

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 33

It was an extraordinary event indeed for Ponsonby U3A when the October speaker, Catherine Hammond, talked by zoom about the extraordinary myriad of collections available at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, T-amaki Paenga Hira.

Catherine Hammond heads the Documentary Heritage Collections which number over three million items. These include paintings and drawings, photographs, archives, manuscripts, ephemera, publications, sound and moving image. Treasures include the Sir Edmund Hillary Collection and the first printed book in te reo Maori.

Catherine’s team cares for, catalogues and curates this nationally and internationally significant collection. At the meeting, she introduced the work of the documentary heritage staff and volunteers and discussed the ways in which collecting recorded history is changing in the digital age. She left members with a thirst for exploring further this remarkable collection at the museum. Tours are available, details of which are on the Museum website.

Prior to joining the Auckland Museum in 2019 Catherine was research librarian at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki.

She holds a Master of Library and Information Studies and has worked on many projects covering New Zealand artists and feminist archives. Hers was a concise, warm, and engaging style of presentation.

U3A member Helen Pearce was the ten-minute speaker outlining her role as the first Women’s Officer for the Post Primary Teachers’ Association. The primary aim of the position was to improve participation in PPTA activities and facilitate promotion of women in secondary schools generally. Currently she acts as a consulting field officer on a relieving basis.

In November, Ponsonby U3A is hoping to return to face-to-face meetings.

In the meantime, Zoom has kept members in touch with each other and alive to new opportunities, not to mention learning a new skill.

the second Friday morning of the month from 10 to 12 noon. Invited guest speakers cover a diverse range of subjects as do the 10-minute speakers drawn from the talented membership.

Members are encouraged to join special interest groups of their choice where there is an exchange of ideas as members teach and learn from each other and importantly, where friendships are forged.

New groups are forming all the time, but currently they are as follows: antiques and collectibles, appreciating architecture, armchair travellers, art history, bijou home cinema, concert going, current affairs, dining out, drawing, gallery visits, green fingers, history ad hoc, Mah Jong, Maori language te reo, music appreciation, New Zealand history, Pétanque, play reading, public art, ramblers, science, scrabble, ukulele and sing-along, well-being and writing.

Special interest group meetings of 10 or more people are held mainly in members’ homes. These groups, by their very nature, provide that all important extension of minds and bodies. For example, Nancy Keat’s Public Art Group takes participants all over Auckland City visiting notable art collections and sculptures in institutions and corporates. This involves a combination of appreciating our rich public art heritage and walking and catching buses and trains.

Guests are welcome to attend a monthly meeting at the St Columba Centre, but are asked to first telephone Philippa Tait on M: 027 452 3108.

Speaker for the November meeting will be Professor Stephen Hoadley, “Is the 2020 US Presidential election a geopolitical turning point?”

(CHRISTINE HART)  PN NEXT MEETING: 10am Friday 13 November at St Columba Centre, 40 Vermont Street, Ponsonby.

ENQUIRIES:

Ponsonby U3A has approximately 180 members that meet monthly (under normal conditions) at the St Columba Centre, 40 Vermont St, Ponsonby on

Philippa Tait, President Ponsonby U3A T: 027 452 3108, www.u3a.nz

The vision at St Columba Every Friday for three years now, St Columba has been a haven for members of the local community by providing manaaki, a safe place and hot lunch.

Most weeks, on average, 35-45 people turn up to enjoy the warmth of the sun through the expanse of north-facing windows, and the whanaungatanga, kinship, and companionship of others who have become friends over many months. It is a safe, nurturing space that has become the go-to place on a Friday - and many other days.

And now, St Columba’s vision is to reconfigure its community centre to ensure it will perform to its full potential, not only for the continuation of the Friday haakari, but for the many individuals and groups who use the facility for classes for adults and children, counselling, advocacy, music, dance, public meetings, sport, birthday parties, wedding receptions, and exhibitions.

Photography Sammy Ho w3.

LOCAL NEWS

Ponsonby U3A: October 2020

With the hall and front deck upgraded, a commercial standard kitchen, and a reconfiguration of the bathroom facilities to house individual all-gender toilets and a shower, the St Columba Community Centre will be well-positioned to serve the local community for decades to come.

Rev’d Brent Swann, Vicar of St Columba, says, “We have received generous offers of expertise and skills for this vision, and now is the right time for us to begin our planning in earnest. The Corona virus has held us up for months, and we are excited to see the path open up before us now.”

St Columba would be grateful to hear from people with design, architecture and building trade expertise who are willing to provide encouragement and guidance to help set this project in motion. CONTACT Rev’d Brent M: 021 022 85114.  PN

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Here is what they told Ponsonby News about vaping. They tell us their job is to help all smokers quit smoking.

Want to quit smoking?

It’s difficult to quit smoking cigarettes, so we need you to consider vaping as an alternative to replace your smoking habits. We wouldn’t say vaping is completely harmless but vaping will reduce the harmfuless by 95%; you will also save money.

Vaping has helped millions of people around the world to quit smoking.

Is vaping dangerous?

Vaping is when you turn an E-juice into a vapor through a device that you inhale and exhale.

Pros: experts say it is 95% less harmful than smoking. There are no odours. You get to choose what nicotine strength and flavours you want.

Cons: no smoking, no vaping will be the best option for you. We recommend you aim to quit vaping eventually.

What are E-juices made of?

E-juice (E-liquid) is made up of four basic ingredients.

VG (Vegetable Glycerine) and PG (Propylene Glycol) is generally used for medical products, pet food, beauty products, food such as baked goods, to increase moisture etc.

Flavouring helps to intensify tastes like fruit, dessert, mint, tobacco etc. The flavourings are all safe to inhale. Lastly nicotine, the addictive ingredient, makes people continue to smoke cigarettes.

Can someone under 18 purchase vape products?

All vape products are prohibited for purchase to anyone under 18. We strictly follow this policy.

Can Urban Vape help me to choose the right product?

Yes, that’s what we have been doing for the past five years. Our team have a wide range of knowledge and we recommend the best products to help you quit smoking. Our passion is to encourage all smokers to quit smoking.  PN URBAN VAPE, 164 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 1188, www.urbanvape.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 35

LOCAL NEWS

Urban Vape has opened in the heart of Ponsonby Road...

LOCAL NEWS

Grey Lynn & Around October rocked in a Grey Lynn released from lockdown, embracing a stable political landscape, and tangible evidence of three Grey Lynn & Around business-led community focused projects coming to fruition.

Our easy course would have been to have a “cuppa tea” but that’s not our style and most certainly doesn’t fit with our vision of making Grey Lynn the most sustainable inner city suburb in Tamaki Makaurau.

Fittingly leading the way is the “Greening of Grey Lynn”, followed by our ARTWEEK Grey Lynn Papatu- anuku art trails, and finally a celebration of the story of our Grey Lynn foods under the umbrella of the ATEED “Elemental” food festival.

They say life is a journey not a sprint. In acknowledgement of Grey Lynn’s very strong Maori and Pacifica heritage, including the great ridge line walking trail of Te Rae-Okawharu, we have commenced planting at the intersection of Great North Road and Williamson Ave with bright colourful pots, plants and trees.

The design and paint of the pots was part of our ARTWEEK 2020 collaboration with Amiria Puia-Taylor of The People Weaver, who as well as leading the project, took the time to share her family history and memories of growing up in Grey Lynn. A big shout out to Bunnings and Resene paint professionals for contributing to the success of the project.

Grey Lynn has the greatest number of creatives in the inner city and even though ARTWEEK has officially finished you can still visit a large number of the cafe’s and restaurants where artwork is for sale in the lead up to Xmas. Of course our great gallery prescient around Arch Hill is open throughout the year and there’s an ever changing line up of great exhibitions to enjoy and challenging new art and artworks to purchase.

If we could curate a Grey Lynn where sensory overload is combined with our fabulous natural wholesome food available from a wide selection of café’s, burger bars and restaurants, our work would be nearly complete.

This work formed the basis of our third pillar of activity for the month with over 20 of our food establishments participating in “Elemental”.

Go to Heartbeats Grey Lynn Around for a list of participating eateries.

What distinguishes Grey Lynn are two food facts. Firstly, we are the vegan capital of Auckland. Convincing a certain nameless breakfast show presenter to eat vegan donuts made by the wonderful team at Tart Bakery on nationwide TV was a simple task, but we’re on a mission to tell our story of embracing natural foods aligned with a lifestyle choice of protecting and nurturing the environment.

Secondly we can vouch for the fact that the food sourced from each of the 20 participating “Elemental” establishments is great value for money. The food is city class with village authenticity and quality. And that doesn’t change now we are in November.

And so we look to really forge ahead to 2021 continuing this momentum; it’s about adding value to the businesses who serve our community.

After a super successful networking event at 300 Richmond last month we encourage all businesses in Grey Lynn and Around to join us at our AGM hosted by Romulus and Remus from 5.30pm onwards on 12 November and for a pre-Christmas pitch and mingle setting PN businesses up for a support local, shop local, stay local campaign.  www.greylynn-around.com

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS

Personalisation is key to Kiwi Blade Knives The world is pretty shambolic at the moment but Willie van Niekerk of Kiwi Blade Knives is on a mission regardless – to defy the plague of sameness and fly in the face of the modern ‘throw away’ world, one knife at a time.

“I like to produce things that last. It’s what I value. Quality has to be at the centre of everything that I do,” he tells us.

He’s never been one to run with the pack, and his knives are the same. A fusion of the tradition of craft with art, and a dash of personalisation, Willie’s customised knives are a collaboration of everything his customers could wish for in a knife, sculpted and moulded with skill into what is achievable.

“Not everything is doable,” he says, “but I try my best. And I’m always intrigued by a challenge. I’m a bit of a magpie like that.

“My knives have a lifetime warranty because I believe in longevity and family. You should be able to pass your knife on through the generations.

“Family is the reason I came to New Zealand from South Africa”, adds Willie, who is now a fully bona fide New Zealand citizen.

“That is where the name for our business came from actually – my love of New Zealand. New Zealand gave me another home for myself, and my children, and I will always be thankful for that.

“Heirloom is the only way to go.”  PN

“A bespoke knife is something unique. It should say as much about the person who it is designed for and the person who commissioned it as it does about the process and the knife maker, him or herself.

www.kiwiblade.co.nz #defyingtheplagueofsameness www.facebook.com/kiwibladeknives

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 37

LOCAL NEWS

Ponsonby Park – November Update Election day, Saturday 17 October arrived fine and clear. Good for voter turnout and equally good for our latest Community-Led Design (CLD) event.

As the start of work on Ponsonby Park has been temporarily delayed due to budgetary constraints caused by Covid-19, we decided to have an on-site engagement with the community. This was to update people and reassure them that Ponsonby Park will progress soon.

It was a great day and an enjoyable opportunity to re-engage with our ongoing and enduring community supporters.

The main question most people wanted answered was “when will it happen?”

Happily, we were able to reassure people that Ponsonby Park, the new civic space at 254 Ponsonby Road, is still the Waitemata- Local Board’s ‘One Local Initiative’ project, and that the Waitemata- Local Board has “confirmed that proceeds from the sale of a commercial building at 200 Victoria Street go to fund the Ponsonby Park project at 254 Ponsonby Road and urged [the Governing Body] that that project only be delayed by a year.”

We are very appreciative of the Waitemata- Local Board’s ongoing support and advocacy work for Ponsonby Park on behalf of our community, as well as visitors from wider Auckland and beyond.

Our event ran from 10am - 1.30pm. We tempted people with delicious Allpress biscotti – chocolate biscuits and gluten free pistachio (yum!).

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

And we handed out flyers with an update of the work our CLD group has been doing to progress Ponsonby Park this year.

Additionally we completed some ‘springtime maintenance’ by replanted our wine barrels that sit in front of our CLD noticeboard, as well as the corner garden. Nice.

We also let people know that we are hoping to reconnect with our ‘Valentine’s Day people’ (see the image below). The very first event our CLD group held was on 14th February 2016, Valentine’s Day. We wrote this up for the Ponsonby News and published the photo below of our young supporters. We’d like to reconnect with them again, to see what they’re up to all these years later.

So, if this is you, or someone you know, please have them contact us via our webpage www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz/contact.

Or send a message via the Facebook page ‘Ponsonby Park’. And of course, you can keep up to date by checking both of these digital sites out for further information.

Ponsonby Park, it’s going to be brilliant - bring it on!

(JENNIFER WARD)  PN www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOCAL NEWS An exceptional opportunity exists to represent one of the world’s iconic furniture brands.

Ligne Roset is looking for a partner to help develop our brand in New Zealand.

Expressions of interest can be sent to contactnewzealand@roset.fr

Young Minds Matter Ficino Preschool is a haven for young children to grow in self-belief and confidence as they explore and experience new skills.

We nurture and develop the social, intellectual and physical skills your child will use to thrive and help them take the next step to our on-site primary school.

Book a visit. Hop online, book a visit and discover why Ficino Preschool is more than a stepping stone to their school education; it is the Greatest Gift you can give your child.

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FICINO.SCHOOL.NZ

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PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 39

LOCAL NEWS

In

New stock

Special

In

New stock

Special

Top: Morocco 3 pc chaise sectional sofa

by Natadora $6,699 Native coffee table by Tolv $1,399 Bellevue floor lamp by &Tradition $2,659 Floema side table by Wendelbo $949 Panel rug from $2,999 Middle: Odd upholstered stool by Tolv $699 Attendant casual chair by Natadora $3,399 Bottom: Album 3 seater sofa by Natadora $4,779 Available at DAWSON & CO. In

New stock

DAWSON & CO., Northshore Showroom, 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale T: 09 476 1121, Parnell Showroom, 115 The Strand, Parnell; info@dawsonandco.nz www.dawsonandco.nz

40 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Specia

Spoilt for choice Design your outdoor haven from the comprehensive and highly diverse collection of outdoor sofa modules. Senja by Tribu, invites you to curl up and relax in it's beauty and sophistication.

Ph. 09 476 1121 info@dawsonandco.nz www.dawsonandco.nz

North Shore Showroom 38 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland

Parnell Showroom 115 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland

FASHION + STYLE

HELENE RAVLICH:

All hail, linen – especially when the summer months roll around and Auckland gets rather hot, and inevitably sticky. It really is the perfect fabric for keeping cool, and thankfully it’s present in almost every summer collection by our favourite local designers.

Wixii’s Flora dress

LOCAL FASHION - LEARN TO LOVE LINEN

Did you know that linen was so precious to ancient Egyptians that they actually used the fabric as currency?

The effortless textile has been reimagined throughout the centuries and eventually made its way into the heart of the modern-day fashion lover.

But the cool factor of this lightweight fashion find goes beyond sporting just the perfect linen pant. Universally flattering and multifaceted in its design, linen can be worn in a myriad of ways, giving an option for every occasion as we head towards the end of the year.

Wixii’s Flora dress

Wixii’s Olympia dress

The soft, breathable, centuries-old fabric was once reserved for home furnishings and bed sheets. But by the 1990s, it had become a summer holiday staple, with boyfriend-style shirts thrown over swimwear poolside and tied in knots above midriffs with the perfect pair of jeans - almost ‘Talented Mr Ripley’-style.

Mina Gwyn Skirt

But the appeal is not purely aesthetic. Linen is made from the flax plant and is therefore highly sustainable, making it a rare gem in a fast-fashion culture that we all know is harming the planet. Linen is also one of the most biodegradable fashion fabrics available and as every part of the flax plant that linen is made from can be used, nothing is wasted. Flax is also an incredibly resilient plant and can grow in poor soil with far less water consumption than cotton. In fact – the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation state that flax uses 13 times less pesticide than potatoes, but is only approximately one per cent of the world’s apparel fibre consumption. I think we could all agree that’s it’s a good time to change that!

The Wixii label headed by mother daughter duo Georgia and Shelley Hembrow is synonymous with linen, using it way before many other local designers made the textile a key part of their collections. Their Ponsonby Central boutique is an absolute treasure trove of gorgeous pieces, both with their own label and a carefully curated rack of vintage. Georgia says: “linen is one of our favourite fabrics to use it has so many benefits. It is thirty times stronger than cotton and takes less water to produce, making it truly one of nature’s best raw materials.” She adds that it’s good for the skin and the planet, and it’s pretty easy to spot something you’ll love in linen within minutes of walking through Wixii’s doors. www.wixii.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 43

hej hej linen separates

Mina Frida Coat

Mina Local Blazer

Lastly, another local label that does a stellar line in linen is hej hej, who proudly state on their website: “we’re a label born from a healthy obsession with linen. With its intrinsic indulgence, holiday weight and texture that bows and holds in all the right places, it not only looks stunning and feels terrific, but has a whole personality of its own.”

They do some beautiful separates, and always in a colour palette to make you smile. www.hej-hej.co However you choose to wear it, linen is undoubtedly the best way stay cool this summer. (HELENE RAVLICH)  PN

hej hej The Indiana Dress in Gold Daisy

Natalie Procter is the designer behind the Mina label, which I was excited to hear is opening a store in Grey Lynn in the not-too-distant future. She too has included linen in her collections since day one, and many of her pieces are my favourites come summer and winter.

“I love working with linen in our ranges,” she tells me, “it's natural, has just a raw texture and it is even more beautiful as it ages with washes and wear.” Commonly seen in summer collections, the Mina team has sourced a beautifully weighted, Pecan linen that can be worn year round. “We designed a blazer and pant that on their own are classic wardrobe staples,” says Natalie, “and as a set will see you through all the seasons.” www.minaforher.com

44 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Curate - Collar Back Girl - $249

Curate -This + That - $299

Curate - Sparkle Away - $279

Curate - Fit to Frill - $299

Curate - What the Tuck - $329

FASHION + STYLE

@ Zebrano

ZEBRANO has now relocated to 22 Morrow Street, Newmarket - opposite Westfield T: 09 523 2500, www.zebrano.co.nz

稀攀戀爀愀渀漀

䌀甀爀愀琀攀 戀礀 吀爀攀氀椀猀攀 䌀漀漀瀀攀爀

䴀攀氀愀 倀甀爀搀椀攀

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 45

FASHION + STYLE

Helene Ravlich: Local fashion - W by Working Style After 34 years as one of New Zealand’s leading menswear brands, Working Style have decided that it’s about time they revealed their feminine side.

And what a beautiful side it is.

Taking the moniker ‘W by Working Style’, the Working Style team have unleashed a fresh new collection made up entirely of impeccably tailored garments for women. Made in Portugal by one of the world’s leading ateliers, Davion, W by Working Style is a carefully considered, elegant collection of over 30 styles that are made to order by the Working Style team.

The always charming Sharon Orquejo, who has been with the Working Style brand for over 15 years, has been integral to the introduction of W by Working Style, leading the design and curation of the exciting new collection. She had a strong vision for what was needed to create a collection that referenced its roots, whilst ticking all of the boxes when it came to great womenswear.

“I noticed a real gap in the market,” she says. “Our male customers always have been able to get anything they want made by us, drawing on premium resources from around the world. They simply make a cloth selection from a Cut Length Mill and then we make a garment to their exact size and specification with our tailors in Portugal.”

Now that option is also available to New Zealand women, and Orquejo couldn’t be happier, offering a carefully curated collection of pieces that draw on the premium fabrications and considerable histories of mills like Solbiati, Loro Piana and Dormeuil.

The perfect jacket is the base for the collection, with polished cotton mills, velvet, silk and tweed, just a few of the fabrications on offer. “The options really are limitless,” says Sharon, “and finally New Zealand women can have what men have been enjoying from Working Style for the last 34 years.”

I love that Working Style has also included local makers in the creation of the collection, with the brand’s very first New Zealand shirtmaker in charge of making a range for W by Working Style. The shirts are beautiful, and include a boyfriendstyle that definitely ticks all of the boxes when it comes to laidback chic.

W by Working Style also includes a New Zealand made suit that has offers a softer and looser silhouette than the Portuguese make and fit. “It is nice to have options” says Sharon, “and the New Zealand style is quite different from the other offering, which is typically European in influence – a bit more nippy through the waist and shoulder and impeccably tailored.”

The process has a collaborative feel, and begins when you make an appointment to meet with a W by Working Style consultant and play a key role in creating your own perfect wardrobe. Over a beverage of choice you hone your vision, trusting that everything will be taken care of to deliver contemporary tailoring crafted to your exact measurements and PN specifications. It doesn’t get much better than that. 

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

WORKING STYLE, 186a Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 3840, www.workingstyle.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS

Ross Thorby: It’s been a tumultuous year Our team of five million has suffered not only the slings and arrows and violent twists and turns of a vicious microbe, but an election as well.

You might have also noticed that it’s been very quiet down at the ports - devoid of the constant stream of cruise ships tying up, providores whipping around on forklifts, suitcases ferried in cages and taxis shuttling excited guests back and forth.

Normally, about now is the start of our cruise season and usually my daily walk would include Princess and Queens Wharfs to see what the early morning tide has brought in. This year I’m staring sadly at the empty berths lying forlorn and abandoned without even a hint of a lifeboat or a smoking stack, only the lonely lap of the Waitemata against the wooden piles.

Out of the 139 cruise ships that were booked to visit the City of Sails, the majority have cancelled and while our borders remain closed, it’s obvious that the rest will soon follow. At an estimated spend of at least $193 million for the season, it’s not only me noticing the vacant berths, but our city’s economy is also feeling the pinch. A big hit for us financially and a chunk of needless steps on my pedometer.

But it does beg the question - and in the words of a famous advertising company - “Where the bloody hell are they?” What has happened to the 400 odd cruise ships that usually navigate our Seven Seas?

For the first time in history, cruise ships have entered the largest pause in operations that the planet has ever seen. Some cruise lines have announced suspension until at least May 2021, which means that some have been out of the cruise market now for over 14 months.

Some of these ships cost over a billion dollars to build and 2018 figures produced by Carnival show that Cunard’s Queen Victoria for example usually has a yearly revenue of $US800m. Cruise ships in the Carnival fleet show an average profitability margin of around 17 - 18%. That’s a huge tumble in anyone’s money.

Most of the World’s ships are currently in ‘warm layup’, a term indicating that most of a ship’s major systems are being maintained and is basically being kept ‘as good as new’, ready to be re-commissioned immediately. Some older ships in less profitable lines, are in ‘cold layup’, when most systems are shut down and the ship permanently moored somewhere; a situation that doesn’t bode well, meaning the next step is the sale or the knackers yard. Already a number of ships have been sold for either scrap or to the Asian market. Already several well-known brands have declared bankruptcy.

Across the ditch, once it became known that they were not welcome anymore, cruise ships became repatriation ships and gathered crew from different fleets to ferry them back to home countries unreachable by the airlines. It was reported by Forbes that some 49 ships around the world repatriated 80,000 crew this way. The Philippines had at one stage over two dozen ships from various companies anchored in Manila Bay full of crew waiting out isolation periods before they were able to join the comfort of their families. Other ships, such as the Queen Mary 2, after evicting her passengers in Australia, sailed back to the UK hoping to sit out the pandemic in friendlier waters.

Nine cruise ships were recently anchored off Limassol, Cyprus; the city taking advantage of the situation with Carnival paying them a small fortune to have their ships laid-up there. It has been a bonus for the Island nation devastated by the loss of tourism revenue.

Other ship clusters are in Barbados, Marseilles, Panama, Weymouth, Curacao and Glasgow, where town and city councils have also seen an advantage to their bottom-line.

2020 was meant to be one of the cruising world’s most prolific years, but it has turned out to be its ‘annus horribilis’.

Let’s hope 2021 is better – for all of us. (ROSS THORBY)  PN

Ponsonby News Readers Are Everywhere Local resident Sally Anderson sent us this great photo telling us, “a bit of competition for my husband, Nigel Nausbaum, from these gorgeous American donkeys for a read of your brilliant monthly magazine. These donkeys are used to transport wine from Donkey Bay Lodge Vineyard in RUSSELL to the local hotel and cafes.”  PN

When the pandemic struck earlier this year, hundreds of ships were in the middle of scheduled cruises and most were forced into the nearest port disgorging shocked and angry passengers into far flung countries with no idea of how to get home; not helped by airlines and borders closing in rapid succession. While some cruise companies did help their passengers return home, others didn’t. It was not only the passengers who were affected, but thousands of crew as well.

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 47

SPQR

FESTIVE SEASON

INSPIRATION FOR CELEBRATING ‘LOCAL’ AS WE HEAD INTO THE FESTIVE SEASON Now that we’re all beginning to enjoy the social freedom of Covid Alert Level 1 it’s a good time to start planning end of year celebrations with friends, family and workmates.

Although no one needs an excuse to get out and support some of the country’s talented artists, chefs, musicians and hospitality folk, end of year festivities are a great reason to do so. Whether it’s a long lunch, a formal Christmas function, or a delicious food basket, the wider Ponsonby area has just about everything you need.

We have dedicated local retailers, markets supporting local artisans and producers, pop-up stores and fantastic improv style performances at Ponsonby’s own Covert Theatre. From documentary film festivals (check out DocEdge festival at the Civic on 22 November) to farmer’s markets, staying and buying local offers so many benefits.

The economies we create when we keep our transactions local and diverse can be one of the most beneficial things we can do for our community. Long time economic activist and scholar, Helena NorbergHodge, has been arguing for localism since the 70s and now more than ever its value is being realised.

It’s certainly an approach Ponsonby News readers can easily apply to their everyday shopping and in the lead up to Christmas. Shorter distances are healthier than longer distances for commerce and human interaction, so get walking or cycling out to our local places. The Grey Lynn Farmers’ Market is just one of the great places to start.

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

SPQR

A recent New York Times article explored Norberg-Hodges belief that by prioritising localism and rejecting globalism we can make the environment healthier and people happier. Norbet-Hodges, who has been starting and supporting farmer’s markets since the 70s, long before they were popular, believes that Covid-19 has revealed how fragile the global economy can be and in contrast just how resilient and vital our local economies are.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FESTIVE SEASON

BEAUTIFUL BRUNCHES

Brunch with friends is an easy way to get together and reflect on the year and celebrate a bigger, brighter, better 2021. Many of our local cafes continue to innovate their offerings responding to the challenging times, and local business people are committed to supporting them.

Charlotte Kofoed of Sotheby’s real estate loves Mary’s, an incredibly popular cafe with so many people we speak to lately.

“I hold a lot of meetings there as it’s a quieter café with a very relaxed atmosphere. The staff are lovely and there is a courtyard for outdoor seating as well as the comfy indoor area,” shared Charlotte.

Situated in the old St Mary’s Bay Fire Station the brunch menu is mouth watering and on the weekend we suspect it isn’t so quiet.

LONG LUNCHES AND DRINKS IN THE SUMMER BREEZE

Khu Khu signature dish, Scallop Drunken Noodle

You can’t beat a long lunch at SPQR; an institution on Ponsonby’s main strip, and a fantastic place for a long end of year lunch in the sun. Chris Rupe of SPQR says that so far locals and regulars have shown amazing support and the SPQR team are extremely grateful.

“People are wanting to move on, and I think people have accepted this year for what it is. They’ve spent a lot of time with their families, at home cooking, eating together, but now they are wanting to get out a bit more,” he suggests.

Chris acknowledges it has been tough for everyone across the hospitality industry but feels people are now wanting to find small ways to celebrate, whether it’s birthdays anniversaries or showing their staff they’re really appreciated. Of course, budget has become even more of concern than ever and Chris and the team are always trying to find ways to make it work for people.

“What we’re doing is trying to make our dining experiences accessible.

We have set menus that start from $39 and our Saturday Ladies Lunch is a great way to get together and celebrate.”

Ponsonby Road Bistro, Jervois Steak House, Andiamo’s and Malt Public House all have tempting offers covering lunch, dinner and something in between to show locals just how much they love them.

Malt Public House is cementing its place as the local go-to, and found Covid has really highlighted their connection to the neighbourhood.

“We feel that after the Covid lock-downs people wanted to stay closer to home, and realized the benefit of having a great local pub with excellent service right on their doorstep. This year we are seeing people choose Malt, more as a destination rather than a kick off point before heading on to other precincts, coming more often and staying longer. We were very lucky to hold our annual Oktoberfest event for the 4th time this year, just 3 days after entering Level 1 and

Malt Public House

a great day was had by all. We are not out of the woods yet, but are extremely grateful for the support we continue to receive from our local neighbourhood,” says Shane McDonagh, operations manager for Malt Public House.

For those who prefer a plant based diet it would be hard not to want to support Khu Khu Vegan Thai, who have not only had to contend with the stress of Covid lockdowns but have also been closed for a month due to a fire on their premises. With the relaunch scheduled for the end of October, regulars and locals will be able to again enjoy Khu Khu Thai’s signature vegan dishes, including Penang Vegan Curry and Crispy Sliced Daiken.

“We have been getting enquiries for end of year bookings and celebrations which has been difficult as we have been closed since the fire. I think businesses are wanting to show staff they are appreciated and now we can finally start taking their bookings”, says Michael Khuwattansenee, owner of Khu Khu Thai.

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 49

FESTIVE SEASON

MUSIC, MARKETS AND THEATRE

With Auckland’s move to Alert Level 1 and the restriction on gathering sizes being removed, outdoor concerts, festivals and markets seem like a great way to enjoy a little more social time without being closed up indoors.

Grey Lynn Park Festival - 21 November 2020

This is fun for the whole family and wider community. Local artists and artisans create a relaxed fun and entertaining vibe with great music, and food. If you’re Christmas shopping already you are sure to find sustainably created products which is just one of the many reasons to share your purchasing love at this year’s festival.

Daniel Tohill, organiser of the Grey Lynn Festival says it’s going to be a great one this year. “We have an incredible lineup with some great Auckland musicians, a new Talk Tent that covers everything from urban agriculture to alternative money systems, and we’ll have our Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and new central Auckland MP, Chlöe Swarbrick on stage for a chat.

Spring Season, Covert Theatre

“On the music stages this year there will be performances by The Dawns, Rize Biza, Amila, Beachwave Illbaz, Johns Comb, Liaka, Kepani, Halfqueen and Soujourn. Amber Clyde and the girls of Skate NZ will be at the skate ramp encouraging and empowering more girls to take up skateboarding. There’s really something for everyone.

Heaps for the kids, bin fairies and clown doctors. Keep your eye out for them on 21 November,” adds Tohill.

Grey Lynn is also home of the famous Grey Lynn Farmers’ Market which is now in full swing. In November the 100% locally owned market will feature all your favourite stalls and this month organisers are encouraging everyone to get on board with Auckland Transport’s ‘November Walking Challenge’ and let their feet do all the work.

“We’re keeping our fingers crossed for an uninterrupted run up to Christmas so we can all enjoy some leisurely and social Sunday mornings at the market,” shared Caron Gunn, market manager.

Alpha markets are sure to make another appearance during November in the Sapphire Room at Ponsonby Central. They feature fantastic vintage clothing, jewellery, art and incredible ceramics - all beautiful local things you can buy for Christmas.

Ponsonby Social Club has some of the city’s best markets and hottest beats and during November the PSC markets will be running again with local artists, artisans, vintage dealers and more.

The Long Room has ‘Paint and Wine with Moonrise over Auckland’ on 10 November, plus other nights throughout the month. Buy a wine from Long Rooms great wine list, order some dinner and be guided

Grey Lynn Park Festival

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

The Man on the Island, DocEdge at the Civic - Photo Courtesy Republic Films

through a night of creativity with the Paint Vine team. You may even find your finished painting makes a great Christmas gift.

In November the Auckland Town Hall and the Civic theatre are hosts to New Zealand musical talent. On November 6 indie band, The Beths, are playing at the Auckland Town Hall, then on November 14 the collaborative collective of Fly My Pretties, will entertain and enthral. This is followed by Th’ Dudes Th’ Bliss tour on November 19. November 20 at St Matthew-in-the-City fans can enjoy Elemental - A Night with Amanda Palmer. The American singer has been in New Zealand since the country went into lockdown earlier this year.

New Zealand’s new home of improvised live comedy, the Covert Theatre in the heart of Ponsonby will have you laughing out loud and thinking deeply. If you are looking for something to really make your end of year function memorable the Covert Theatre has you covered.

You can commission a bespoke corporate performance or book

Grey Lynn Farmers Market

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Bernadette Murphy, general manager of the theatre suggests everyone should come to see them this festive season.

Farro, Artisan Hamper

“Our Improv Bandits are the ultimate in Christmas entertainment. You can book a full show or just bring your team down. Excellent wine, Il Bucco pizza and giggles... we would love you to have a laugh with us.”

It’s not just giggles, the Covert Theatre takes its place in the community seriously and always looks to support Ponsonby market days and events throughout the year. Some readers may have had the chance to enjoy free coffee and cupcakes at Covert Theatre’s recent open day during last month’s market day.

Rhubarb Lemon Rose, The Caker

The Auckland’s Performing Arts Centre (TAPAC) has an eclectic range of events from a magical giant glow show (Te Moana Glow Show on 28 November) to Cuban Salsa workshops at the Tumbao Salsa Festival (28-29 November) to the award winning play ‘Love Letters’ translated into Hindi.

DINING WITH ATMOSPHERE

When it comes to fine dining and eating out with atmosphere, the wider Ponsonby area has always been a leader. Whether you opt for the famous discovery menu at the award winning Sidart, or some authentic Thai cuisine from Saan, you are eating at some of the country’s most highly acclaimed restaurants. From the French inspired Paris Butter, to the Japanese Peruvian fusion of Azabu, not being able to travel is no reason to not enjoy the tastes of the world.

FOOD BASKETS, CAKES AND HAMPERS

The increased popularity of staycations and the trend of keeping celebrations more intimate really lends itself to giving hampers and food baskets. Farros offers such a diverse range of hampers and there is one to suit every kind of foodie. From vegan and gluten free hampers to deluxe Artisan 2020 hampers, your Grey Lynn local has you covered.

Rondel and her sister Anouk, offer some of the most incredible looking (and incredible tasting) cakes in the hood. “I first fell in love with the art of baking cakes when I experienced the immense joy that gifting or sharing a cake could bring to the recipient. It quickly became obvious to me that cake brings happiness to any occasion, even if it’s not a happy occasion, and that’s why cake is so magical.”

Whether you buy off the shelf or order ahead, these cakes oozes local love.

Hampers have been popular all year for Sabato and Ponsonby local, Jacqui Watt, explains that hampers are both gifts and tokens of kindness.

“It’s been quite a year for people, a lot of whom have spent a lot more time in the kitchen! Our ingredients are both great quality and easy to use. You don’t have to be able to cook well, but just want to eat well. Our hampers are very user friendly as we include some ideas and we can individualise them depending on need or desire - vegan, gluten-free and so on,” says Jacqui.

Sabato are in the midst of launching their famous Christmas hampers so they are expecting some busy, yet fun and exciting times ahead.

Sabato, Italian Summer Hamper

If it’s cakes you are after, then there is no better way of sharing the love and top the festive season off than something mouth-watering from The Caker. Taking the art of caking to a whole new level, Jordan

Jordan Rondel, The Caker

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 51

EAT, DRINK FESTIVE + BESEASON MERRY

a full show. These guys have entertained everyone from All Blacks to bankers with their side splitting thought provoking improv.

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

What’s on your menu this silly season?

This year hasn’t exactly been kind to our social calendars, but as we landslide into the months of November and December, one thing is for sure, Kiwis are making up for lost time now.

If there’s one man that can vouch for this, it’s Peter Stewart, director of Grey Lynn based catering company, The Cater Station. When asked about his business, Pete sounds optimistic about the upcoming silly season.

“Honestly, we didn’t really know what was going to happen with catering given the restrictions around gatherings until recently. With a team of five employees, I was nervous about how people would ease back into parties once we got into level one. But there have been some great signs with a surge back into normal ordering patterns, which is awesome.”

You might even be thinking about throwing your own get-together this summer and catering might be an option for some. If that’s you, go ahead and check out The Cater Station online. For others who want to DIY an epic spread of their own and are keen to play chef at the next summer soiree, Pete has let us in on a few trade secrets to help us up our food prep game. He suggests trying out something new, or preparing something that you personally really enjoy.

and run with it. Throw a taco party, a burger party or a whatevertickles-your-fancy party, and focus on the toppings. Supply the elements for a build-it-yourself spread, and let the crew create their own burger, dog, sliders or whatever. This way, you’ll have more time to mingle with the crowd, and the prep stress and clean up afterward will be halved.”

“Gone are the days of sausage rolls and club sandwiches. People love individuality. We’ve all had some extra time to experiment in our kitchens recently, so why not show off your new skills.”

Lastly, Pete reckons it’s a great idea to shop local where possible and makes an effort to shop local when purchasing produce and supplies for The Cater Station and his new business, Bake n’ Break.

Coming from a social family himself, and with a mother who is notorious for over-catering, Pete also suggests that consideration be given to food portions to ensure you don’t blow the budget.

“It’s a great idea to shop local. When you shop local, not only are you supporting local businesses, you’re typically going to be shopping ‘in season’ too. This means that the food you’re using is going to be the freshest and tastiest - all the better for preparing delicious food with.”

“I can’t tell you how many times I have spent twice what I was meant to because I didn’t take the time to plan, and I own a catering business!” he laughs.

“Be item specific”, says Pete.

“Salads, roast veges, breads and BBQ’d meats are great, but it’s a lot of work, a lot of dishes and a lot of leftovers. Pick a food item

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

So there you have it; a few tasty tips from a local catering pro, guaranteed to make hosting your next shindig just a little bit easier.

Should you get to the eleventh hour and you haven’t quite got your party fodder sorted however, rest assured The Cater Station is on PN hand to help feed your crew.  www.thecaterstation.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK EAT, DRINK + BE+MERRY BE MERRY Healthy soil is key to growing healthy food. Teaching farmers how to nurture the soil and transition to a farming system that puts soil at the centre of farming is going to be critical for the ability of future generations of humans to grow food.

Regenerative organic farming The people of Aotearoa have overwhelmingly voted for Jacinda Ardern’s style of politics.

We clearly want progressive change and a future that is kinder, more inclusive, and more sustainable. Now, without any handbrakes and government partners diverting attention and funding to such redundant enterprises as the horse racing industry, the time has come to also map a pathway to help farmers practice in a regenerative organic way. By focusing on soil health farmers can make more profit, grow healthier food, reverse environmental damage, mitigate climate change, strengthen communities and improve their own mental well-being. It is one of the most promising ‘technologies’ to improve our own and the planet’s wellbeing. It affects every single one of us – the public, farmers and governors, and we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to move to a regenerative, resilient and inclusive circular economy.

There’s also very clear evidence that moving towards regenerative organic farming is the most successful way to sequester carbon, holding it in the ground where it’s an important element in the fascinating life cycle of soil. A staged approach where regenerative organic methods are incentivised, both locally and in our export markets, will drive investment and financial success along with the myriad of environmental, social and health benefits.

The climate change crisis is very real and while many consider Aotearoa to be a shining example of a ‘clean, green’ country, nearly half our greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture. That’s neither clean nor green. Along with toxic input that often ends up in waterways, precious hapua and wetlands have been drained and carbon-sequestering forests obliterated to make way for intensive farming. Our agriculture industry certainly plays a large part in the economy, but when you look at externalities, the hidden costs that rarely show on a balance sheet, the picture isn’t quite so pretty.

I have written about the difficulty in sourcing organic or regenerative flour from New Zealand and although we are now using some organic wheat flour, we are still not able to use it in all our products due to the lack of milling infrastructure and the simple fact that there isn’t enough grown, even for our modest operation.

This lack of diversification of New Zealand’s agricultural sector is short sighted and as we allow the plundering New Zealand’s natural resources, large parts of our population don’t have access to healthy affordable food.

So, what exactly is regenerative organic farming?

The result of the election shows that a majority of New Zealanders value kindness and the well-being of the entire community. Now let’s include our non-human environment and cohabitants of this planet too and show the rest of the world how to create a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come. (ISABEL PASCH)

The key to regenerative farming is understanding, valuing and preserving the relationship between soil and plant health. In striving to build better soil health and nutrition, regenerative farmers grow healthier plants that are less susceptible to disease and insect attack.

Plants grown this way are more resilient and less reliant on pest control. They also deliver a nutritionally superior product – healthy soil means healthy plants and healthier animals.

New Zealand businesses focused on organics, such as my own Bread & Butter Bakery, are searching for agricultural products that could come from New Zealand, but often need to be imported, because of the lack of support and infrastructure for a diversified sustainable agricultural sector within our borders.

To read more visit www.breadpolitics.com or visit: www.breadandbutter.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 53

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Cargo Westhaven - Opening soon, and they would love to see you!

Operating as a food and beverage outlet between 7am till late, they will also be catering for dinner, functions, and events. With exquisite views of the promenade, marina and the city sky-line they will be THE place to be.

Their menu is influenced by a multi-cultural demography. The name ‘Cargo’ also implies movement of goods, which in their case is food and beverage. The menu has been curated keeping in mind the healthy eating habits of our local population, and the indulgent alike; not forgetting kids or pets who will have their own special menus.

Because of their proximity to the marina, they will also be able to tailor requirements specifically to the boating community, in the form of picnic baskets, beverages, hampers, and catering services on boats. The beverages have been selected to complement the food, offering ranging from healthy options like kombucha on tap, the Nitro Cold brew, ayurvedic and naturopathic influenced drinks, not to mention a large selection of beers, wines and spirits – Rum! Ahoy!

With FREE VENUE HIRE, they have the capacity to hold up to 699 people as a full venue, and the ability to split into three different

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

spaces for all your event requirements catering for anything from meetings, seminars, variations of corporate events, after work drinks and nibbles, weddings, engagements, Christmas, and birthday PN parties to mention a few.  CARGO WESTHAVEN, Unit 1 & 2, Westhaven Marine Village, 31 Westhaven Drive, E: dine@xeniagroup.co.nz www.cargo-westhaven.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Where did our name come from? ‘Dida’ is Croatian for grandfather, with the Dida’s stores a tribute to the vision and determination of our grandfather, Josef, who founded the original Glengarry back in the 1940s.

The Balkans region possesses a lengthy and battle-scarred history; after WWI, a young Josef Jakicevich decided to go in search of a new life, travelling by boat to New Zealand to work as a stonemason. When he stepped off the gangway in Auckland, his sole possession was the handful of change in his pocket, his English was merely rudimentary, and he had no more than a passing knowledge of the country that was to shape the rest of his life. He was 20.

By working with fierce determination, Josef managed to save enough money to buy 10 acres on West Auckland’s Glengarry Road in Oratia.

He planted a vineyard, setting the foundation for the enduring family business that was to come. In 1945 Josef was granted one of the first two wine resellers’ licences issued in Auckland, which he applied to the greengrocer’s store he had previously opened at the corner of Jervois Road and Blake Street.

That address became the first Glengarry wine store, as well as the location of the Dida’s Wine Lounge. From the opening of the greengrocer’s doors to the establishment of Dida’s in June 2005 is a lengthy 60 years, much of it devoted to the development of the still family-owned and operated Glengarry business and involving four generations of the Jakicevich family.

The changes in the way New Zealanders buy and consume wine has changed dramatically in that time, and we’ve adhered to principles and pioneering spirit expounded by Josef, anticipating and embracing change wherever we can to ensure we continue to bring the latest and the best directly to our ever-growing band of loyal wine enthusiasts.

The Dida’s concept has grown from that ethos. Witnessing the effects of more and more Kiwis expanding both their vinous and culinary horizons, we saw an opportunity to take the skills acquired in wine retail and combine them with the relationships we have established in the finest food and wine regions in the world, to deliver a memorable experience where high-quality wines meet their culinary match.

At Dida’s we utilise the fantastic ingredients we are able to source and, via our own kitchen, turn them into tempting dishes to complement our carefully constructed winelist. And it is in the Dida’s Wine Lounge that you’ll find the family photos, including those of a quiet, industrious trailblazer called Josef, known to us as Dida, without whom no stone would have been laid, or glass of wine raised.

DIDA’S WINE LOUNGE, 54 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 2813, www.didaswinelounge.co.nz

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

Dida’s Wine Lounge - where high-quality wines meet their culinary match

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

Faces at Grey Lynn Farmers Market Jill Wheeler-Bowden is a local who is often found at the market.

Where did you grow up?

In London. I’m the eldest of eight, and I have an identical twin.

How did you come to New Zealand?

My brother married a Kiwi and moved here and then my twin moved here. So, I had been on holiday a couple of times before I moved here permanently with my husband and two kids. In 2002, we made the giant step and moved from London to Waiheke.

That sounds like a big change.

It was! We collected water, had chickens, and a garden. There was a big hole in the garden which a friend helped us fill with a spa pool.

We had some big parties.

And you had another big change when you left Waiheke.

Yes – seven years later, it was time to spread our wings again, for more opportunities on the mainland. We moved to Mt Roskill for a few years before we landed in Grey Lynn. I loved that Mt Roskill is a very multi-cultural community with lots of new immigrants. I was very involved in community initiatives, including one to establish a community garden for residents in the social housing complex.

Tell me about the culture you experienced on Waiheke.

Waiheke has an eclectic culture that gave me a good grounding in a range of new ideas like kinesiology and shamanism. And I have continued to train and dabble in many alternative practices such as biomagnetism, and human design.

Was that your career in London?

No. I was always in the education sector as a drama tutor before I qualified as a drama therapist at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London. In New Zealand, I qualified as a teacher and I juggle a mix of relief teaching and chaperoning children for screen productions.

What is drama therapy?

It is an active way of using play, traditional storytelling, and the arts, as a way to problem-solve issues through symbolism. I work obliquely, which means in the face of any difficulty. Be it physical or psychological, it often helps to approach matters indirectly. I use metaphor and connection to archetypes, and the themes we explore help people change their perceptions about issues in their lives. I help people move forward and experience life more positively.

Is that what you are doing at the market?

I have been working with the vibrational essences and offering readings for people, plus selling products such as crystals, herbs, alter sticks, as a connection to nature. But COVID has reminded me of my core skills of bringing people together for common educational goals. I am building a team for my ‘finding your life purpose’ retreats that are based on drama therapy, and introduce guest facilitators for enhanced healing and transformation.

Why did you name your practice Giant Steps?

Giant Steps is what we called some steps on Hampstead Heath. As little children they seemed so big but, like all steps we take, that can be just a matter of perspective!  PN

GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET @ the Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, www.glfm.co.nz

Sunday mornings at the Grey Lynn Community Centre 510 Richmond Road 56 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FRENCH INSPIRED NEW ZEALAND CUISINE

210 SYMONDS STREET T: 09 377 1911 www.sidatthefrenchcafe.co.nz sidatthefrenchcafe

PROGRESSIVE INDIAN DINING SIDART, Level 1, Three Lamps Plaza, 283 Ponsonby Road T: 360 2122 www.sidart.co.nz

- Gusto Italiano GUSTO MEANING ‘TASTE AND ENJOYMENT’

When you dine with us, the focus is on freshly prepared classic dishes, featuring an excellent range of pasta, seafood, meats and our pizza classics.

CONTEMPORARY INDIAN DINING 5 Fort Lane, CBD T: 09 379 9702 cassiarestaurant.co.nz

We also offer our pasta dishes to takeaway, phone for details or check our website for the menu.

263 PONSONBY RD, THREE LAMPS, 09 361 1556 www.gustoitaliano.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 57

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

Phil Parker: Out of The Ordinary This month – six very distinctive wines. Four from New Zealand and two ports. Each wine is quite out of the ordinary as you will see.

One of the most unusual is the new Tee Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2020 from Kim Crawford’s largely organic Loveblock label.

Green tea has been added as an organic preservative alternative to sulphur dioxide. Renowned North Canterbury label checks in with some interesting wines, one white blend and one pinot noir. And finally, two Portuguese ports from the epic 2018 European vintage. Cheers!

Loveblock Marlborough Gewürztraminer 2020 (vegan) - $22 A very elegant, yet complex example of one of my favourite wine varieties. Not at all your big and bold oily, sweet and perfumed OTT gewürztraminer. No, this wine has subtle aromas of pear juice and a hint of jasmine. A musky off-dry palate with lychee, rock melon and a bit of preserved ginger. Finishes yeasty, crisp and tangy. Great with Vietnamese or Malaysian cuisine. Available: Glengarry.

Loveblock Tee Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2020 (vegan, organic, sulphur-free) - $27 An intriguing take on the Marlborough sauvignon style. This wine has green tea added as an alternative antioxidant to sulphur dioxide (SO2). Quite shy aromas of peach and a hint of feijoa. On the palate there are soft acids and complex, multi-layered flavours of feijoa, mandarin, canned peach, and a perfumed hint of herbal green tea, with a crisp and lengthy finish. Fab with Vietnamese cuisine, e.g. fresh vege or prawn rolls. Available: Glengarry.

Pegasus Bay North Canterbury Waipara Valley ‘Vergence’ White Mk1 - $27 When I opened this wine, I thought, ‘That’s an aged savvie!’ Which was sort-of correct because it does contain some sauvignon blanc.

But wait. There’s more. (No free steak knives.) The blend contains predominantly semillon, plus sauv blanc, muscat, riesling, chardonnay

and gewürztraminer. A complex, hearty white wine blend that is very appealing. Great with seafood, chicken, creamy pasta.

Available: online www.pegasusbay.com Pegasus Bay North Canterbury Waipara Valley ‘Vergence’ Red Mk 1 - $40 A big and bold style of pinot noir with at least 7 years ageing potential. Whole bunch fermented in stainless steel, then sealed to allow no ingress of oxygen (also known as carbonic maceration … but I digress). One year in old French oak. Lots of blackcurrant, earthy truffle, mushroom and dark chocolate, with good tannin and acid structure. Seared steak, spicy lamb or moussaka would be good matches. Available: online www.pegausbay.com Taylor’s Vintage Port Portugal 2018 - $250 approx These two ports are ‘sneak preview’ wines from Hancocks distributors.

They may not be on the shelves yet, so pricing is approximate. 2018 was a great year for port. Taylors have declared 2018 as a ‘Classic Vintage’ year, i.e. superior quality fruit from the Douro region in Portugal made the base wine for this port. 20% alcohol and purple/ black colour. Flavours of black berry fruit, cassis and tamarillo, with an earthy hint of truffle sauce. Sturdy tannins that will give this wine a shelf life of twenty years at least. Available: Glengarry.

Fonseca Guimaraens Porto Portugal 2018 - $190 approx Another ripper Douro port from the 2018 vintage, this one also clocks in at 20% alcohol. Deep, dark and full of potential, it has a portfolio palate of mulled wine, anise, boysenberry and baking spices. Big and bold. Will reward cellaring - but delicious right now.

Available: Glengarry. (PHIL PARKER)  PN www.finewinetours.co.nz

FINE WINE & FOOD TOURS “No. 2 Auckland Wine Tour” – TripAdvisor Your host, Phil Parker wine writer.

Affordable tours for small and large groups.

E: phil.parker@xtra.co.nz

58 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

www.finewinetours.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

@ 31 Bar & Eatery in Ponsonby At modern Indian 31 Bar & Eatery, special attention has been taken in preparing each dish, with a lot of emphasis taken in cooking food in a healthy manner, using minimum oils, no artificial colours, no sugar, less salt, fresh chilli, ginger, garlic, and just enough cream.

All products are sourced from FIANZ certified and trusted meat suppliers. We are not Halal certified as we have a bar on site.

What is unique about Indian food?

A unique blend of fresh spices, such as cardamom, coriander, aniseed, cloves, cumin, turmeric, cayenne, curry leaf... etc along with the intoxicating aromas, not only gives an astonishing taste, but also has health benefits that no one can refute. It’s a labour-intensive cuisine that tests your taste buds with each different cuisine you eat.

No one menu is same!

What are your favourite dishes?

These are our most popular choices.

MENTION THIS ADVERTISEMENT AND BOOK A TABLE AND GET AN ITEM OF THE DAY ON US.

Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?

We have a rotating menu that keeps on changing from time to time.

Happy Hour everyday from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Beer, wines, cocktails, mocktails and bites!

Follow us to see our 90 minute brunch & bottomless drinks starting from Saturday 7 November 2020. Enjoy our fresh spice and may we bring you good health and great fortune! Join us to celebrate Diwali PN on 14 November 2020.  31 BAR & EATERY, 31 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 218 5164, E: reservations@31.co.nz, www.31.co.nz

NON VEGETARIAN 31 MASALA CHICKEN Boneless chicken cooked with our 31 special masala.

VEGETARIAN CHILLI PANEER Paneer tossed with onions, herbs, fresh chillies, spring onion and house chilli sauce (Fusion).

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN AUBERGINE Flame roasted aubergine with garlic, herbs and spices.

Our guests are always astonished to see the difference we add by makings things instantly and enjoy the freshness of the spices we use!

Please tell us about the chefs.

In total, the chefs have over 45 years of experience working in three to five star hotels/restaurants (brands such as Taj, Radission, Shangri-la, etc) in India, creating Indian cuisines along with cuisines from around the world. They are quite inspirational in trying new flavours!

We’ve heard you create your own spice combinations?

Yes we do. For generations, (even before our forefathers migrated to Fiji from India as indentured labours), we have had our family masala recipe. This consist of cardamom, coriander, aniseed, cloves, cumin, turmeric etc etc...

Exotic spices are lightly toasted and ground into fine powder. All spices are grounded fresh on site to give taste of fresh flavours.

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HELENE RAVLICH:

LOCAL BEAUTY - HAVE YOU HAD A PEEL LATELY? Despite the negative publicity that emerged following their initial arrival in the general beauty realm over ten years ago, I think that peels are an absolute essential for healthy, happy skin.

60 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Some of the most popular peel types are: Mandelic Peels: mandelic is a clever AHA that has been used in the treatment due to its ability to quickly decongest, clarify and help control an overflow of oil production. A newly born member of the AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) family, mandelic is much more slowly absorbing and therefore much more sensitive on your skin. An alpha hydroxy found in its natural form in almonds, it is a potent ingredient for reducing the dead cells on our skin’s surface and can also help to minimise pores and alleviate acne symptoms, as well as targeting skin discolouration.

Glycolic Peels: glycolic peels have the smallest molecular size and penetrate the deepest; meaning that they are great for the exfoliation and rejuvenation of skin that is showing signs of ageing that you’d like to soften. Glycolic peels come in different strengths, depending on the results you’re looking for, and a consultation is always necessary so we can assess the best course of action for you.

Lactic Peels: lactic peels are derived from milk. The lactic peel is ideal for skin that’s dry or sensitive to active ingredients like retinol.

If you’re concerned about having an adverse reaction, the lactic peel is easier on the skin, and it’s a great starter peel if you haven’t had one before due to its gentle nature.

Salicylic Peels: salicylic peels are used to deeply exfoliate the surface layers of the skin. Salicylic acid breaks the bonds that hold the skin’s cells together, causing them to shed away or peel. As the skin regenerates, it is rejuvenated. Compared to other types of chemical peels, salicylic acid gives a gentle exfoliating action, and immediately following a salicylic peel you’ll notice your skin feels softer and smoother.

Due to the super sensitive and reactive nature of my skin, the last time I had a peel I opted for a 20 per cent lactic peel by Dr. Aspect to address fine lines and general dullness. The process of applying the peel was done with utmost care, and the comfort level of my skin checked up on multiple times during every step.

It’s important that you don’t generate any additional heat during the first 48 hours after your peel. Because layers of your skin have just been exfoliated off, exposing a fresh new layer, your skin will be more susceptible to burning.

Avoid exercise and hot baths, and sunscreen is a must whenever you leave the house, even if you’re only getting in and out of the car. You should also avoid the use of harsh exfoliants or active cleansers for seven days after your treatment.

There are also some effective peels to use at home.

A newbie to the market being Pure Fiji’s Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel. A powerful blend of glycolic and mandelic acid enhanced with niacinamide and extracts of fresh garden sprouts, it’s designed to go to work on fine lines, pigmentation, acne scars and enlarged pores.

An oldie but a goodie, Dr. Dennis Gross’s Universal Daily Peel from Mecca Cosmetica is a cult favourite for a reason. The vegan peel pads are pre-dosed with five powerful alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA), antioxidants and vitamins to accelerate cellular turnover and remove surface dullness for a smooth complexion. Squalane, ceramides, and Chinese foxglove are in there to help seal off water loss, helping skin maintain its integrity and natural hydration balance for up to 72 hours.

Last up, also from Mecca Cosmetica, is the Omorovicza Copper Peel, which is a foaming two-phase formula combining a blue copper paste and a lactic acid activator. It polishes and smooths the complexion and minimises the appearance of enlarged pores for a brighter, more even skin tone. Quick and easy, an application feels like a facial at PN home. (HELENE RAVLICH) 

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 61

LIVING, THIKNING + BEING

They are no longer the scary numbers that caused all those shocking ‘after’ pics that once littered the internet, and high-performance formulas from tried and tested brands like Dr. Aspect are the ideal skin refreshing treatment, and able to treat all skin types and concerns.

They deliver instant results, with very little irritation or stress to the skin. I’m sure we can find a peel that will work for you.

LIVING, THIKNING + BEING

Tadhg Stopford: With our votes, have we all chosen life?

Jacinda called climate change our nuclear moment, and now we have given her the power to face that challenge. Will she? Can she? How? We need to fill the foreign student/tourism holes with billions of dollars of activity and resources. So, here’s what I think she should do.

Create a Ministry of iHemp/iCannabis, and kick start some SOEs (State-Owned Enterprises) to enable Kiwis to innovate. Hemp’s coming back, let’s lead the pack. (We are behind). If we can have a Minister of Racing, we can have one for iCannabis; it’s much more valuable.

Here’s the thing - more than thirty countries grow ihemp (Cannabis Sativa) as an agricultural crop for food, fibre, medicine, and more.

The UN recognises the right to grow ihemp as a crop.

The corruption of US capitalism saw ihemp prohibited under the guise of ‘marijuana’ in the 1900s. Ihemp was cast out and its use was made a crime. Toxic monopolies flourished in its absence.

cut social services; all short term thinking and pure self centred greed. Reagan ripped those solar panels off as soon as he moved in.

Nothing much has changed since.

So, our nuclear moment is here. It’s time to progress independently and sustainably as a country. Growing better food, fibre, and medicine will help.

But, even as the world is turning back to hemp, all our models are based on monopolies again and our government still won’t acknowledge its disruptive potential. Should our team of five million have a stake in our new green economy and help it bloom and ecourage Hemp SOEs as honest competition to private monopolies, to fund essential national infrastructure, and to ensure that the public share in the dividends of providing life’s essentials?

Or should we just be consumers?

President Carter installed solar panels on the White House because ‘peak oil’ and the looming energy/climate crisis was known and accepted then. (And not because he had read the 1912 Wanganui Chronicle article on fossil fuel was causing climate change).

But the conservative order struck back. Oil & Gas, war on drugs, divide and conquer, culture wars, class wars, privatise public wealth,

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THIKNING + BEING

‘Bee a hero’ to our local bees These stripy little critters are mankind’s best friends, pollinating at least a third of our food crops, and playing a vital role in many ecosystems. As much as we need bees, they depend on us too.

Here are six ways to be a hero to bees.

A bunch of flowers Any bee friendly garden starts with plenty of flowers for pollen and nectar. Consider planting blue, white and yellow flowers that are easy to land on, or have tubular blooms with nectar inside. Plants with flower spikes let bees move easily from flower to flower.

You and bee Bees like a lot of the same plants we do. Fill your garden with useful plants like Lavender, Borage, Marigolds, Sunflowers, and culinary herbs like Coriander, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme and Basil. If you have a lawn, let it grow a bit longer – bees enjoy the wildflowers.

Nurture natives Try locally eco-sourced natives – they’ll thrive in your area, and perennial species often bloom early or late while introduced species are devoid of flowers. Try New Zealand Jasmine, Harakeke, Pohutukawa, Manuka, Rewarewa and Lemonwood.

Give them a drink Bees can’t swim, so water sources in your garden should have shallow, sloping sides, or a stone in the water they can stand on to drink. Bees gravitate towards moving water, as do butterflies.

Walk away from spray Avoid toxic pesticides – particularly neonicotinoids – and try to minimise your use of systemic herbicides like glyphosate. If you must spray, follow usage and safety instructions carefully; do it late in the evening and avoid while plants are flowering.

Eat local honey Honeybees depend on beekeepers to keep them safe from disease, predators and parasites like varroa mites. By eating locally harvested honeys, you’re helping beekeepers protect their bees and our environment.  PN

ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 63

LIVING, THIKNING + BEING

John Appleton: Silicon – it’s important for many reasons How many of us have wondered if there is anything we can do for brittle nails, thinning of hair, strengthening of our bones, premature ageing of the skin and to support healthy cognitive function?

Most of us may have never considered that a simple chemical element known as silicon could have so many potentially health inducing properties. Silicon is one of the 97 building blocks that form our minerals and it’s also the second most abundant chemical element found in the earth’s crust.

In human health, orthosilicic acid is the most bioavailable form absorbed by humans (commonly called silica) and it’s vital for the health of many tissues particularly connective tissue. The highest body levels are found in bones, tendons, liver and kidney, the aorta and the skin.

Deficiencies of silica can manifest as thinning of the hair, increasing brittleness of nails, the formation of wrinkles and premature drying and ageing of the skin. Silica is vital for hair health, for improving hair growth as well as the lustre and shine of hair, making it thick and healthy. Silica can also strengthen nails, preventing brittleness and infections.

For me, the most exciting thing about silicon is its role in assisting with the removal of toxins and heavy metals from the body, and in particular aluminium. Silica has been shown to prevent the absorption of aluminium in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as binding to it and excreting it via urine or sweat. There is a unique affinity between aluminium and silica where silica mediates its bioavailability. If we are deficient in silica this increases the bioavailability of aluminium and its toxicity.

Aluminium is known to be particularly toxic to the brain and it can be a significant risk factor in the development of cognitive impairment.

Christopher Exley a professor of Bioinorganic Chemistry at Keele University in the U.K. looked at the brain tissue of 12 people who had died from an inherited form of Alzheimer’s which can affect people in their 30’s and 40’s. He found high levels of aluminium in every brain

tested. A 2016 study of 10,567 individuals found that those with chronic aluminium exposure had a 71% increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. A study of over 7,000 women in France concluded that low levels of silica increased the risk of cognitive impairment.

Prof Exley demonstrated that drinking a litre of water with a high silica content every day significantly increased the excretion of aluminium in the urine and if consumed prior to exercise, a lot of aluminium was also excreted in sweat.

The water that was used in Prof Exley’s research is known as ‘Volvic’ water which is reported to have a silica content of 20 mgs per litre.

Given that cognitive impairment is such a massive problem in New Zealand and around the world it makes a lot of sense to me to embrace simple interventions that may be helpful.

We are fortunate in New Zealand to have a superb source of water that has a very high silica content. It’s known as ‘Water in a Box’ and it has 93.4 mgs of silica per litre. It comes from a deep aquifer in Whakatane and they say on the box that it’s been stored underground for up to 1800 years. I have been drinking this water for years and I really love it. It’s all I drink.

We are exposed to aluminium in many ways, including cooking utensils, antacid medications, deodorants and in New Zealand our town water supply has aluminium sulphate added to it. It makes a lot of sense to limit our exposure to aluminium and drinking a very pure water with a high silica content that can also help to remove existing aluminium, is something we can all do.

Have I noticed any benefits? I can definitely say that my nails have clearly appreciated the regular intake of silica. I would describe them as bulletproof. ‘Water in a Box’ is available from IE Produce in PN Takapuna. (JOHN APPLETON)  E: john@johnappleton.co.nz www.johnappleton.co.nz

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NORTH SHORE PONSONBY PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THIKNING + BEING

Lustre Beauty Studio Lustre Beauty is a new name and signifies an exciting change for what was once Nails On Richmond.

Owner Vicky tells us, “Our luxurious and spacious new location means that we are now able to offer more advanced treatments from our new skin specialist, whilst still catering to all of your beauty, nail, and massage needs.

“With our experienced and knowledgeable staff, you will know you are in good hands throughout all your treatments. We have specials on until 1 December, so come in for a visit to 1st floor, 483 Richmond Road for an experience like no other.”

LUSTRE BEAUTY, 1/483 Richmond Road, T: 09 360 1950, www.lustrebeauty.co.nz

RELAUNCH SPECIALS

RUNNING UNTIL 1 DECEMBER Nails On Richmond has relocated and rebranded to Lustre Beauty at Level 1, 483 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, T: 09 360 1950 We still offer all your favourite services, but we’ve also added some new and exciting advanced skin treatments into our menu.

We stock the following brands: Mesoestetic, Environ, Pure Fiji, Medik8, Jane Iredale & LiLash.

Gift Vouchers available.

COME VISIT US AND CHECK OUT OUR CURRENT LAUNCH SPECIALS: - FREE Consultation with our new Skin Specialist - Healite II Facial - $50 - Laser Hair Removal for Underarms - $29 - Pure Fiji Tropical Pedicure with OPI polish - $59 - Pure Fiji Head & Shoulder massage (30 minutes) - $39

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 65

FUTURE GENERATION

A sense of belonging starting at age five Starting school is a time of significant cognitive overload as students navigate their new school world, five days in a row. It is also a time of immense social growth.

While many people may think of children having or needing a best friend or a tight social group at this age, the reality may be different to what you might expect.

The St Cuthbert’s Junior School team has many areas of expertise including supporting key transitions. Head of St Cuthbert’s Junior School, Kerry Oldman, provides insight into what friendships look like for the school’s newest members.

“At this tender age, play is all about openness, inclusivity and acceptance,” says Kerry. “We encourage group play and getting to know and collaborate with all members of the class – it’s the foundation of some really important life skills.

“We may still see children observing, before stepping in to play, or students choosing to play alongside or parallel to others rather than being immersed in group or one-on-one play, and this is absolutely acceptable.”

Parents are often interested to learn who their child is connecting with and how friendships are progressing. While it may be a parent’s first thought of who their daughter played with during their day, Kerry says a more important question to ask is what your child did – this shifts the emphasis from the focus on friendships to a spotlight on the activities their child has engaged in.

“The St Cuthbert’s motto of ‘By Love Serve’ starts from the beginning.

A smile, warmth, being a good friend and engagement, are rolemodelled by teachers which assists our girls to make connections.

Kindness, learning from others and reaching out are all encouraged.”

She adds, “At this age and stage the focus on friendship development is based on interacting with as many girls as possible. This is

achieved through learning groups which are changed regularly, so girls have the opportunity to sit with others. A teacher may also set up ‘play dates’ in the classroom which means asking groups of girls to undertake different activities and focus on working together. It is a balance of teacher-led guidance and hands-off time. At break times the classes come together to eat meals before heading out to play.”

Kerry concludes, “When children feel safe, and that they belong, they become open to learning and can succeed at every level. Our new entrants flourish in this environment where they feel confident to be themselves and are happy. We surround girls in a buoyant, positive and caring atmosphere where they can really thrive.”  PN

ST CUTHBERT’S COLLEGE, Year 0 – 13, 122 Market Road, Epsom T: 09 520 4159, www.stcuthberts.school.nz, Instagram: @stcuthbertscollege, Facebook: @StCuthbertsCollege, Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/school/st-cuthberts-college/

66 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION

Honour Mitchell: Teen Picks Ponsonby picnic and hang out spots Summer, ahhhhh, and with daylight saving well underway think long, sunny evenings and lazy weekends relaxing outdoors.

And so many gorgeous green havens, sandy nooks and glorious views to take advantage of right here in Ponsonby. Whether out picnicking with friends, taking a walk, or on the hunt for a place to clear your mind, there are oodles of places to choose from!

I will share just five of my favourites: 1. Herne Bay beaches - these beaches, dotted along the shoreline of Herne Bay, can be found at the end of Herne Bay Road, Cremorne Street, Wallace Street, Sentinel Road and Hamilton Road. There is an excellent range to choose from, but my ultimate favourite is Herne Bay Road beach. I’ve been going there since I was two. Sitting on this gorgeous little patch of sand with the sun setting and a parcel of fish & chips is like living the Kiwi dream. Normally the beach is not too crowded but at some points in the summer you will find quite a few visitors paddle boarding, taking a refreshing dip in the sea or sharing a delicious picnic with family and friends. Nevertheless, there’s always room for locals and anyone dropping into the neighbourhood.

2. Brown’s Reserve - located on Brown Street, just a stone’s throw from the amazing Ponsonby Central, is a petite park with lush greens, lots of seating and a couple of swings. My friends and I have found this to be an ideal place for a weekend lunch picnic after a busy morning shopping. Just pick up some delights from Ponsonby Central and eat them in the quiet comfort of a relaxing, natural setting.

3. Salisbury Reserve - located at the end of Salisbury Street in Herne Bay, is a green paradise. Growing up next door to Salisbury Reserve has meant it’s like an extension of my backyard. It is huge with loads of space for different activities. Over the years it has provided me with a perfect little kid’s playground, trees to climb, a safe place to ride my scooter and bike and roomy spaces for school picnics and birthday celebrations. And now the more private areas offer a secluded zone to have a picnic with friends or read a book. It is also home to Auckland’s main Petanque club, which can be rented out for functions. I am so lucky to have such a diverse, beautiful park over my fence.

4. Westhaven Marina - located at the end of Curran Street in Ponsonby, is a fantastic waterfront park and a path with seating, which also doubles as the beginning of a walking track that meanders around the marina. Looking out towards the water you can see the Harbour Bridge close up, and in the distance the charming Chelsea Sugar Refinery resplendent in tones of dusky pink, (a perfect accessory to the sunset!). It is a lovely calming view which can be enjoyed from dawn to dusk. Come down here for an early run or bike ride, perhaps a nice evening stroll, maybe a bit of ‘me’ time, or even some fishing. And if you come at night to watch the sunset, when the sky has darkened the bridge lights up in pretty colours!

5. Cox’s Bay - located in West End Road in Westmere is another park that is a great place for some action-filled fun (think frisbie, cricket, soccer or any frivolous casual game). There are also multiple tracks for walking, running, biking or exercising the dog (I remember plodding these paths from primary school cross-country days.) But it’s also perfect for chilling with friends. Bring down some blankets and watch the sun set over the stunning view of the bay. It’s a pretty social place, so you might even bump into someone you know!

(HONOUR MITCHELL)  PN

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 67

FUTURE GENERATION

Meet the teacher Toni Jarmin is a deputy principal at Grey Lynn School.

How long have you been at Grey Lynn School?

I joined Grey Lynn School in 2015. Prior to Grey Lynn, I was teaching and living in Clevedon. I have enjoyed being on the journey with the Grey Lynn team and community as we moved from single-cell classrooms to our new collaborative learning spaces. It has been exciting to see the changes that we have had over this time. Our school looks amazing!

Tell us about your deputy principal role.

My role varies and no two days are the same. I work alongside a great team to support and grow our teachers and learners.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The children - their energy and enthusiasm. I am passionate about creating a love of learning in all children, especially in the junior years as they transition to school life.

Tell us about your school’s vision for the future.

To grow thoughtful empowered, and independent learners who have the dispositions, skills, and attributes to navigate their way in the world.

I love our school vision ‘Learning today we shape tomorrow - Mo tou ma, mo tou kainga, mo tou’. Our goals: learning Ako - growing potential - dreaming big, collaboration Mahi Tai - together we go further and future-focused -Te Ao Hurihuri - creating my place in the world.

Everything we do is underpinned by our vision and values. It takes a village to raise a family - and our GLS learners are at the heart of all we do and this is what I believe makes GLS so special. Everyone is encouraged to contribute to the journey.

What do you do in your leisure hours?

Haha, that can be challenging to fit in a work-life balance. I love spending time with my family. It’s always full of fun and lots of laughs.

I also enjoy reading, crocheting, and relaxing at the beach.

What do you like about being part of the K-ahui Ako O Waitemata?

Working collaboratively towards a shared focus enabling positive educational pathways for all students. There is a wealth of knowledge - and it provides a wonderful opportunity for connecting within the Kahui and sharing to learn from and with each other.  PN

I Love Lucy Book Review: The Erasure Initiative Lili Wilkinson 14+ ‘I don’t remember getting on the bus.

I don’t remember who I am.

I don’t remember anything.’

When I walked into the bookstore this book immediately caught my eye. Its cover was awfully intriguing, and its name, ‘The Erasure Initiative’, pulled me in like it was a black hole! I’m a real sucker for psychological thrillers, so this book was right up my alley.

The story follows a teenage girl who wakes up on a self-driving bus with no memory. There are six others on the bus, all in the same position as her. Her name-tag tells her that her name is Cecily, but that doesn’t seem to be ringing any bells either. Soon begins a sequence of tests where every passenger needs to decide on an outcome.

Have you ever heard of the trolley problem? It is a series of thought experiments where there are different scenarios, and you have to decide whether to throw one person under the bus (quite literally in this case) to save a larger group of people.

However, secrets are uncovered and things escalate; will Cecily discover the truth about who she is, will she survive, and most importantly, who is behind all of this?

68 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

While I think the idea is very original, I found the plot hard to follow at times. I like to read a few books at once, but this one definitely required my full attention. All in all, I enjoyed this book. I rate it a three out of five cats. (LUCY KENNEDY)  PN



out of 5!

Available at www.dorothybutlerbookshop.co.nz www.lucykennedywriter.wixsite.com/reviews instagram @ilovelucybooks PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION Year 1 Teacher and Dean Nathan Calvert enjoying some woodwork time with some of his past students

Starting School Starting school is one of those important moments in our personal journeys.

It marks the beginning of a relationship with the formal learning structures that will ultimately shape the knowledge, skills and values we will take with us into adulthood. It is no surprise then that everyone involved wants it to be a positive start!

How do we make that happen? We know that humans are hardwired to learn. Babies are constantly observing, mimicking. Toddlers explore, experiment and are naturally curious about their world and those they share it with. Once young children begin to speak, their ability to process and think about ideas increases exponentially.

There is plenty of advice given to parents about “how to make sure children are ready for school”.

But if schools really understand the science of learning, then shouldn’t the question be “how is school ready for the children that are joining?” When choosing a place for your child to embark on their school experience, consider some of the following factors: What is the adult to child ratio?

Will your child’s teacher have the time to really get to know your child as an individual and give them the attention they deserve?

How big a jump is the environment from Kindy to “school”?

Do the teachers of 5-year olds have any experience with Kindy, so that they understand where the children are coming from?

What are the opportunities for outdoor experiences?

Is there a designated playground for this age group? Are there regular “bush walks”, with a teacher, to connect to and learn from the environment?

What message does the classroom set-up send?

Is this a space where the objects out on display provoke wonder and curiosity? Is children’s work celebrated and displayed proudly? Or are the walls covered in generic posters? Is this a room that children take pride in? Are there areas for children to work alongside others; to dress up and role-play, or construct larger scale models?

How does the teacher respond to the children and their family members?

What does the teacher do first? Connect or correct? How do they greet the children and their families?

Year 4 Enrichment Teacher Dale Connell with some of her students

Who is teaching what?

Is the class teacher expected to be a master of all trades, changing into PE gear to lead a PE lesson one minute, taking Music the next, then shifting seamlessly into a numeracy lesson?

Targeting resources to create the strongest foundations possible has been proven to reap huge benefits for children; impacting their achievement for years to come as they move through school. Children starting school benefit from time working with their teachers in very small groups, to ensure they get the individual attention they need at this age. Their learning experience needs to build on what each individual already knows and can do, rather than looking for “gaps” to fill, and getting everyone to the same level. Each day should be filled with engaging and thought-provoking activities, both inside and outside of the classroom.

If you are in the process of trying to decide where your child should start school, these questions provide a good starting point for weighing up your options for the next step in their learning journey.

Jayne de la Haye Principal of Junior School and Early Learning – Kristin School

At Kristin, the Kindergarten Manager is also Dean of Year 0 / New entrant classes, overseeing a well-established transition from Kindergarten through to the Junior School. Children transition to Junior school with a teacher who has already spent at least a term teaching them in Kindergarten. Additionally, PE, Te Reo Maori, Chinese, Library, Art and Music are all taught by additional specialist teachers.  PN

KRISTIN SCHOOL, 360 Albany Highway, Albany. T: 09 415 9566, www.kristin.school.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 69

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

Logan Granger: Business Finance Guarantee Scheme Updates to the Business Finance Guarantee Scheme have just been announced in the last month.

The scheme has been revisited to provide a higher level of loans to an increased number of businesses to help in the recovery from the impact of COVID-19. The aim of the revised scheme is to support business recovery and growth plans.

The central feature of the scheme is that the government is guaranteeing 80% of the risk of scheme loans, while the banks are covering the remaining 20%. This assumption of most of the risk by the Government (taxpayers) will encourage banks to make business loans that may otherwise have appeared too risky, thereby increasing the survival chances of such businesses.

There are standard criteria for scheme loans (outlined below), but otherwise a normal lending process will be followed by the banks. The banks have put their application forms online so you can view and compare them, but we would expect that banks will be giving priority to existing customers.

Eligibility criteria Entity • New Zealand based business • Impacted by COVID-19 • Annual turnover of up to $200 million (previously $80 million) • Not be on your bank’s credit watchlist as at 31 January 2020 (for retail customers) or 30 September 2019 (for non-retail customers)

Loan • Maximum loan of up to $5,000,000 (previously $500,000 (with the maximum amount being determined by your bank) • Can be drawn as one loan or several loans • Maximum term of 5 years (also determined by your bank) • Primarily to support operating expenses and investment in recovery and growth • Cannot be used to pay dividends or for on-lending outside borrower’s guaranteeing group • Cannot be used to refinance or repay more than 20% of your existing business debt or overdraft facilities • Cannot be used to refinance or repay an existing loan advanced on or after 16 March 2020 or any loans or facilities that mature on or before 31 December 2020 Ineligible entities Scheme loans cannot be made to fund anyone engaged in: • Property development and property investment.

• Local government (i.e, a local authority, a council-controlled organisation or a council organisation for the purposes of the Local Government Act 2002).

• The supply of recreational cannabis.

• The processing of whale meat.

• The manufacture of cluster munitions, nuclear explosive devices, anti-personnel mines, tobacco, and civilian automatic and semiautomatic firearms, magazines or parts.

• Any activity that is illegal in New Zealand.

• Any other activity notified by the Crown to banks in writing, with effect from the date of that notification.

Apply for a loan?

You may meet the qualifying criteria as above and the bank’s own lending criteria. But, as with any commitment, you also need to weigh up the pros and cons of taking on the additional debt. We fully expect that banks will require personal guarantees and in that case you will also have to think carefully about putting your personal assets on the line, at least in respect of the 20% not guaranteed by the Government.

While the information requirements might differ depending on your bank and your circumstances, generally you should expect to provide the following information in support of your application: • Your last set of financial statements for the business.

• A copy of your most recent tax return.

• A cash flow forecast detailing your income and essential expenditure for at least three months and what a return to more normal business might look like over two to three years.

• A personal statement of position.

We will be able to assist you put this information together to ensure you are providing a robust plan of how things look for your business and how you will service the loan.

If you are unsure if your business qualifies, talk to your banker or your Jacal advisor as they can help you to work out if you do fit or what other help you could seek. (LOGAN GRANGER)  PN Disclaimer – While all care has been taken, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the content of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, 202 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 6701, www.jacal.co.nz

70 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

Funding your retirement lifestyle As investors are acutely aware, the effect of Covid-19 on global markets is likely to result in a recession at least as bad as that experienced with the Global Financial Crisis in 2008-2009.

The response of central banks, both here and overseas, has been to significantly lower what were already low official cash rates.

This approach has had a direct impact on the bank interest rates earned by depositors in New Zealand, providing an unexpected benefit to the children and grandchildren of retirees, or at least to those still in business or paid employment.

But for many retirees who are risk averse and not investment savvy, the immediate and troubling effect of the reduced return on their bank term investments is a significant reduction of the interest income they depend upon to fund their retirement lifestyle.

To illustrate this, Mr and Mrs Senior Citizen were earning a net return after tax of $30,000 p.a. on their ‘safe’ $1,000,000 4.5% term deposit with a major trading bank. This amount, combined with a net tax-paid benefit from NZ Superannuation of $30,000, gave them $60,000 p.a. ($5,000 per month) to live on.

Being debt free and with no dependent children, they felt financially secure in retirement and were comfortably able to fund their preferred lifestyle. A net $5000 per month meant that they were not rich, but they certainly weren’t poor. They were enjoying annual overseas holidays, they felt able to assist their families financially if the need arose, and they were confident of leaving their children a significant inheritance after they died.

0800 1PLAN4U or 09 309 3680

How things have changed over a few short months. Following the rollover of their term deposit, the net tax-paid interest rate is now 1%, giving them a net income of just $10,000 which, combined with NZ superannuation, provides $40,000 to fund their retirement lifestyle. This means they can no longer fund their lifestyle from their income alone.

The natural reaction to this dilemma, as we have seen in the past, is for our retired couple to chase return to increase their net income.

This is a recipe for disaster as we saw only ten years ago, when ‘mum and dad’ investors lost their retirement nest eggs through investing their savings in finance companies such as Bridgecorp Finance, Hanover Investments, Capital & Merchant Finance and Lombard Finance.

However, all is not lost for our retired couple if they seek advice from an experienced and suitably qualified financial planner.

The solution is for them to invest in a balanced, probably conservative, investment portfolio, and be prepared to experience more investment return volatility in exchange for better overall returns than they would get from term bank deposits, and also to be willing to access their investment capital on an incremental basis.

Past experience has shown that $1,000,000 sensibly invested can comfortably fund an annual cash drawdown for an indefinite period. If the investment capital is less, e.g. $500,000, an annual drawdown of $30,000 can be maintained for over 25 years, assuming a real return of 2% after tax, inflation and fees.

If you are worried about funding your retirement lifestyle in the current low-interest environment, please contact me on M: 021 444 PN 339 or E: greg@oneplan.co.nz  ONEPLAN, T: 0800 1plan4u, www.oneplan.co.nz

198 FEDERAL STREET, AUCKLAND CBD, AUCKLAND 1010 WWW.ONEPLAN.CO.NZ

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 71

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

Talking Trusts: Rose & Alister’s story Rose and Alister had both been married before and both had children from their previous marriages.

However, they had been together for nearly fifteen years and considered all of their assets to be joint. They had set up a trust about ten years ago on the advice of Tammy McLeod their accountant to protect their assets from business risk – they owned a small engineering business which they both worked in. Their children were all adults now and while they were close to Rose’s two daughters, Alister’s son and daughter simply did not get on well with Rose at all. Rose felt that they were greatly influenced by their mother.

could be done. She also suggested reviewing the memorandum of wishes for the trust to make sure that the settlors’ wishes were very clear as to what information is given to the beneficiaries.

Rose was very concerned as to what would happen if Alister died. She worried that his children would turn on her and that they would make claims against the trust and Alister’s estate, as while all four children were to be treated equally, the intention was that no distributions would be made to children until both Rose and Alister had died.

Rose’s lawyer explained that this could make Rose and Alister’s trust vulnerable as if Alister’s children were to challenge the trust if Alister died, then the first line of attack would be that there was no independent trustee.

It also seemed to Rose that Alister’s children always had their hands out and had the attitude that Rose and Alister had plenty of money.

Rose was glad that most of their money was in the trust as she thought that would help to protect their assets from Alister’s children.

However, she had heard about the new Trusts Act which was coming into force in January 2021 and felt very nervous as to how that would impact their trust.

Rose knew that after January 2021 beneficiaries would have a statutory right to more information about trusts including financial information, such as the assets, liabilities and income of the trust.

She was worried that Alister’s children would learn what was in the trust and then make further demands on the trust’s resources. She went to see her lawyer to see what could be done.

Rose’s lawyer explained that she would need to review the trust deed to see if there was some way in which the deed could be amended to limit the information available to the children. She said every trust was different and that there was no blanket rule as to whether this

Rose’s lawyer also talked about some other things that Rose and Alister could do to make their trust more robust. One was to appoint an independent trustee. They had always had their accountant as an independent, but he had recently advised them that since the law was changing, he felt a bit nervous about his increased liability under the scrutiny of the Act, and he no longer wanted to be a trustee. He had suggested to Rose and Alister that they could set up a company to be trustee and that only Rose and Alister needed to be the shareholders and directors of that company.

She also advised on other elements of the new law – that all trustees should hold copies of the core documents and that at least one trustee should have copies of all documents relating to the trust. This made Rose feel a little nervous. She and Alister would really need to brush up on their record keeping abilities. However, her lawyer reassured her that if they appointed a professional trustee, that trustee would help them to put in place systems and procedures to make sure that they were adhering to the new statutory requirements. Rose was relieved to know that while the trust landscape was changing, there were still measures that could be put in place to put her mind at rest.

The changes to trust law are wide reaching and will have an impact on trusts going forward. It is so important to get specialist advice to ensure that your trust complies with the new law and that it is still going to achieve all that you need it to.

If you feel you could use some specialist trust advice, don’t hesitate to contact Tammy McLeod or the Trust team at Davenports Law by PN calling 09 883 4400 or visiting davenportslaw.co.nz. 

DAVENPORTS LAW, 331 Rosedale Road, Level 1, Building 2, Albany, T: 09 883 4400, www.davenportslaw.co.nz

72 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

C RAFT E D L EGAL ADV ICE FOR PE ACE OF MIN D.

Trust law is changing.

Is your trust ready?

The current Trust Act has been in place since 1956, so with the new Trusts Act 2019 coming into force in January 2021, it brings many new changes to Trust law as we know it.

Reviewing existing trust structures and making sure they comply and are fit for purpose is paramount.

Contact us for more information.

0 9 883 4 4 0 0 DAV EN P O RTS L AW.CO.N Z

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS Scanlan Street project after Reid Property Services

CAN YOU STILL RENOVATE YOUR HOME OR GARDEN FOR THIS SUMMER? With the property market continuing to gain momentum, favourable interest rates and an abundance of great deals almost everywhere you look, there has possibly never been a better time to invest in your home.

While many sectors and industries are just treading water to stay afloat during these challenging market environments, builders and tradespeople are still in high demand. It’s been said that some trades people are booked six months in advance and that builders who specialise in new builds are already booked out for a year or longer. But what if your project is a little smaller? Is it possible to get a project underway this summer? If the bathroom floor in your villa is about to give way to rot will there be someone who can help? The answer varies but like many questions lately the answer is coming back to keeping things local.

The teams operate with precision efficiency, and Eddie is a master of production schedules which include specialist painters, gib stoppers electricians, plumbers and builders.

Reid Property Services, under the careful management of Eddie Reid, has evolved from a specialist local painting service to a wide ranging property service company. While like many people, Eddie has had to play catch up to complete work interrupted by the various lockdowns, he has taken the proactive step to increase the sizes and capacity of his specialist teams. By adding more craftsmen and experts and keeping his focus on the local community, Eddie is now ready to take on more local work.

The key to getting any new kitchen, bathroom or deck project underway this summer is getting someone out there to take a look, provide a quote and get the job booked in.”

“When we could see the workloads were getting heavy across all parts of our business, I knew we had to expand our teams so that we could ensure our regular clients would continue to enjoy our same high level of service and quality.”

With a focus on new decks and outdoor living spaces, Reid Property Services is ready to help make locals make the most of their staycations this season.

Eddie says that when it comes to large new builds, some tradespeople are indeed booked up for a year or so in advance but Reid Property Services has a niche in small to medium sized projects. Even though they are heavily booked leading up to Christmas there are still some slots available.

“I am currently building up our crews with talented people so that we can have the flexibility to still take on some additional projects before the end of the year,” explains Eddie.

74 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

Before

“We really try to look after locals first and foremost,” says Eddie.

“This is where we live and it’s our community, so it’s important to us to make sure we have the capacity to take on local work first. For instance if you have a bathroom floor that needs replacing our aim is to assess the job, quote and from that point aim to have it completed within a four week turnaround.

Eddie explains, “the sooner projects are scoped out and quoted on, the more likely they can be booked in. We do have a few spaces for new projects before Christmas but the summer is already looking like a busy one.”

While Eddie’s teams focus on the home, another local, Dave Paddy of Nikau Landscapes, has been busy fielding calls from people wanting to make the most of their outdoor spaces this summer. Dave explains that people have been spending a lot of time looking at their backyards this year and are full of ideas about how to improve them.

“Everyone wants a pool, especially in this heat. And spa pools are having a resurgence. The spa pool companies are having trouble keeping up with huge orders,” says Dave.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Balmoral project after Nikau Landscapes and Fiona Webster Landscape Design renovation

It’s been a busy time for Nikau Landscapes, both with catching up on work interrupted by the lockdowns, and getting calls as a result of a heightened level of interest in residential landscaping.

“The money people used to spend on overseas holidays and visiting family is now being spent on home improvements. People are keen to make their home environment as beautiful and as practical as possible,” says Dave.

There are also things people can do to prepare, and the most important thing to remember according to Dave is that major landscaping work always takes longer than you think.

“If you are wanting a pool it will need to be consented and have work from designers and engineers and possibly even need permission from Watercare if there are pipes in the area. Get a good designer.

The more thorough and exact the plans are, the easier the consenting process will be.”

Dave also recommends making decisions early on the products you want to use and then sticking to those decisions to avoid undue delays. He notes that people should be aware that Covid has had an effect on supply chains.

“Because of Covid there are now big delays in supply chains for some products. It’s a shame to have to delay the process to wait for a particular tile stuck on a ship in an overseas port. Even planting can be tricky as nurseries were not able to propagate over lockdown,” he adds.

With committed local tradespeople in and around our local area Ponsonby News readers can still plan home and outdoor renovations creating their own sanctuaries to enjoy over what we are all imagining PN will be a much more settled year. 

When you’re buying or selling a property in the Auckland region, our legal expertise makes for smoother transactions, right down to securing the keys on settlement day.

www.jonesthepainter.com

“We are really busy until Christmas and then we have our biggest project starting. But due to delays in consents and employing more staff we are still managing to fit some small jobs in,” says Dave. “We like doing a mix of big jobs and small, to keep a good balance, so we are still encouraging people to get in touch.”

SpeCial FIxEd FEE PrE‑AuctIOn rEPOrt $300

Property transactions that come up smelling of roses.

©Copyright Ross Jones 2010- 2016

With all this interest, is it possible to get a new landscaping project underway this summer? Dave thinks so, depending on the project size.

Before

Talk to us about conveyancing Call us today

169a Ponsonby Road Ponsonby, Auckland +64 9 929 0800 www.metrolaw.co.nz Trusts & Wills

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Business & Commercial

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Property

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 75

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

Election result gives the green light to spring listing influx for residential property The year of Covid-19, 2020, continues to buck historic trends in the residential property market – with an immediate surge in post-election listings the latest convention to defy previous patterns.

Bayleys Ponsonby leading salesperson Blair Haddow, said that traditionally following elections Auckland’s residential property market ‘took a breath’ to analyse the voting results before once again ramping up its pace throughout spring and then into the lead up to Christmas.

However, this year the market has kicked into full swing literally days, rather than weeks, after the election result was announced on October 17.

“Indications are this was partly because the election was delayed by a month as a result of the second Covid-19 lockdown restrictions – pushing the election further into spring. And also, partly because of sellers looking to make the most of the on-going buyer demand evidenced throughout August and September - when sales volumes went through the roof at a time when they have been traditionally at close to their lowest seasonal levels,” said Blair Haddow.

“Having one political party in a clear governing position after the election has also removed the usual delay created by various coalition partners negating their representation around the cabinet table. This year, the make-up of Government was all done and dusted on election night… and my vendors reacted instantaneously with an immediate ‘green light’ to bring their listings to market.”

25 Hackett Street, St Marys Bay

19 Chamberlain Street, Grey Lynn

Among Blair Haddow’s latest selection of salubrious listings around Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, and Grey Lynn, which went live immediately after the election, are a handful of large executive-style family homes - including: 25 Hackett Street, St Marys Bay - a completely transformed five bedroom/three bathroom home with two living areas and stunning views of Auckland’s CBD, Westhaven Marina, and the Inner Harbour.

The renovation has seen an upper level with wrap-around verandah added to what was the foundation villa footprint. The home’s in-ground heated swimming pool sits alongside landscaped hedging and lawn.

77 Albany Road, Herne Bay

19 Chamberlain Street, Grey Lynn - a converted pair of flats now a brand new two-level family dwelling with five double bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three living spaces, including a teenagers’ retreat. Sitting on the ‘sunny side’ of the road with a north-facing aspect, the home has expansive views out to the Waitakere Ranges overlooking a tiered garden leading down to an in-ground salt water swimming pool.

77 Albany Road, Herne Bay - a four-bedroom/two-bathroom architecturally-designed villa with sought-after off-street parking for three vehicles provided from two separate street access points.

Showcasing the visionary craft of respected architect David Ponting, the home features two separate living areas.

20 Barrington Road, Grey Lynn

20 Barrington Road, Grey Lynn - a three-year-old threestorey townhouse with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The concrete-built terraced unit has an enormous deck and outdoor entertainment area.

16 Wellpark Avenue, Grey Lynn - a four-bedroom/two-living area residence with a private back yard opening directly onto the littleknown Francis Reserve. Designed by Auckland architect Greg Jones, the home has a an office/study, and a relaxed outdoor entertaining space covered by a Louvretec roofing system.

The impressive portfolio of Bayleys Ponsonby new listings across Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, and Grey Lynn, adds to Blair Haddow’s pre-election listing of Unit 2 at 55 Kelmarna Avenue in Herne Bay -

76 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

16 Wellpark Avenue, Grey Lynn

a terraced freehold three-bedroom/two-bathroom townhouse which Blair expects to sell by the end of this year for around $1.95m.

Units 1 and 3 in the same block have already sold off-plan to owneroccupiers with completion scheduled for early next year.  PN www.facebook.com/BlairHaddowResidential PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

Local Market Wrap with Charlotte Kofoed Spring brings higher prices along with increased available stock in the $2M-plus price bracket.

September saw a real step-change in the tempo of the greater Ponsonby real estate marketplace with the highest number of September property sales in seven years - 74 completed transactions - as seller reluctance waned in the face of some very strong local results over the last quarter.

The increase in available stock didn’t halt general price momentum.

The REINZ September statistics for the greater Ponsonby area (Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay, Saint Marys Bay, Freemans Bay, and Westmere) show that the median sell price for greater Ponsonby jumped 15% from August to a heady $1.9M, breaking a period of more narrow average sell price movements over the last few months.

The greater Ponsonby marketplace also significantly outperformed the wider Auckland market in terms of median sell price growth (15% growth vs 6% growth for Auckland overall).

A significant driver of the median jump was an increased proportion of ‘family stock’ property coming to market in Grey Lynn and Ponsonby in particular; larger 3 to 5 bedroom homes in closely held streets such as Wellpark Avenue, Selbourne Street, Admore Road, and John Street in the $2-3M price bracket that have been very thin on the ground stock-wise over the preceding period.

As more sellers decide to meet the market we anticipate the selling season to be longer than usual, particularly with recent Reserve Bank commentary signalling a possible return to tighter LVR restrictions at some point in the New Year. This is encouraging many sellers to list their property before the buyer pool is potentially affected. If you are thinking about selling, call me now to book your pre-Christmas campaign before Santa says hasta la vista to 2020! (thank-goodness).

THE SUPER FIRST HOME BUYER An interesting development in the buyer pool over the market over the last three months has been the emergence of the ‘super first home buyer’, and in our observations, this group has been a significant driver of the recent market momentum. These super first home buyers have the following attributes; • Purchasing their first home (or first property that they will live in compared with an investment apartment or similar) • Many have recently returned from overseas (both before and after the lockdown)

• Most have at least one family member in a stable professional occupation – engineers, architects, urban planners, and the like that the banks consider being attractive applicants in terms of lending capacity.

We are observing that these buyers are very active in the $2.0M $3.5M price bracket, much more so than previous economic cycles, and are competing for 3-4 bedroom family homes with confidence and conviction. Several aspects can make your property more attractive to these particular buyers when preparing your home for sale that I will canvass in the December edition.

FIRST HOME BUYER AND DOWNSIZER ALERT! Perhaps you are looking to help a young family member get onto the property ladder, or maybe you’re considering downsizing from your larger home in the greater Ponsonby area to something smaller, now that you’re mostly out of town at the bach or the children have all left home.

With greater Ponsonby prices sadly out of reach for many, it has been encouraging to see the green shoots of affordable housing options within the general area. Several more affordable apartment options have been or are in the process of being completed within the central suburbs of Point Chevalier, Avondale, and New Lynn, along with the significant mixed-model development at the Carrington Unitec site where up to 4,000 homes are to be developed over 15 years.

For those looking for more space, New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty are very pleased to have recently brought to market the Alford Terraces in Waterview. Comprising of 21 well-crafted homes

by Shanahan Architects and made with care by GJ Gardiner Homes, this water-side development represents a practical and affordable opportunity for local downsizers and first home buyers alike. With 2 bedroom options starting from only $889,000 and scheduled for completion in December 2021, this outstanding opportunity will not last long. The location is hard to beat, being minutes from shops, beaches, parks and only 10 minutes drive from the city center. Call me or my colleague Hamish Kofoed for more information.

PN Thank you for reading. 

CHARLOTTE KOFOED, M: 021 241 9394, T: 09 353 1220, www.ckre.co.nz, E: charlotte.kofoed@nzsir.com

• Typical age profile 28 - 38

Properties Sold Average Sell Price Median Sell Price

• Most are couples with young families

September 2020 73 $1,910,418 $1,900,000

August 2020 51 $1,697,984 $1,650,000

September 2019 63 $1,661,659 $1,495,000

REINZ statistics for Freemans Bay, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Westmere, St Marys Bay & Herne Bay

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

80 Fisher-Point Drive, Freemans Bay Modern Freehold Townhouse This fresh and inviting terrace house is a must view.

Designed by Studio Pacific Architecture it offers prime location living, just a short stroll to the iconic Ponsonby Road, Wynyard Quarter and the America’s Cup Village.

The versatile floorplan is suitable for a variety of living situations and includes a double tandem carport, and an abundance of storage. Comfort and warmth are catered for with a heat pump and luxury twist pile soft carpet. The innovative layout incorporates a unique atrium alfresco area, completely private yet bathed in natural light.

Maintained beautifully by the current owner, this easy-care home is in extremely tidy condition with a contemporary colour scheme and sophisticated, peaceful ambiance, ready for you to move in and add your own style over time.

The pet-friendly Beaumont Quarter community which features visitor car parking, an indoor heated pool, spa, sauna, and gym is constantly in demand for its effortless lifestyle appeal.

3

2

2

Floor: 134 sq m (approx.)

AUCTION: 6:00 p.m. Wednesday 11 November 2020 On-Site (unless sold prior) VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/NZE11307

CHARLOTTE KOFOED | M +64 21 241 9394 charlotte.kofoed@nzsir.com HAMISH KOFOED | M +64 27 655 2250 hamish.kofoed@nzsir.com Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated.

Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty is excited to introduce Alford Terraces, a boutique development crafted

by Shanahan Architects and nestled right on the serene coastal shores of the Waterview peninsula.

Ideally positioned down a quiet cul de sac, and only minutes drive from a range of shopping precincts, beaches and parks, Alford Terraces offers a unique inner-city apartment alternative with space, finesse and waterside splendour.

Featuring a mix of duplex, terraced and stand-alone homes and built to last by GJ Gardner Homes, this initial release will not last long – call now to secure your future.

HAMISH KOFOED +64 27 655 2250 hamish.kofoed@nzsir.com

CHARLOTTE KOFOED +64 21 241 9394 charlotte.kofoed@nzsir.com

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

Lot 13 - 2 Bedroom Terrace

Single Park

83 sqm

$889,000

Lot 20 - 3 Bedroom Duplex

Single Park

110 sqm

$1,129,000

Lot 5 - 3 Bedroom Duplex

Single Garage

136 sqm

$1,295,000

Lot 11 - 3 Bedroom Terrace

Single Garage

135 sqm

$1,299,000

Lot 12 - 3 Bedroom Duplex

Single Garage

135 sqm

$1,299,000

Lot 21 - 3 Bedroom Duplex

Single Park

144 sqm

$1,499,000

Lot 1 - 4 Bedroom Townhouse

Double Garage

195 sqm

$1,795,000

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 79

Horoscopes: Miss Pearl Neclis – what your stars hold for November

Aquarius (the Water Carrier) 21 January - 19 February With the weather getting better you feel like doing something that you wouldn’t normally do. Take a leap of faith. You should do what you want every now and again for the sake of your soul. It’s great to be daring and spontaneous.

Pisces (the Fishes) 20 February - 20 March You are bursting with confidence and it shows. Whatever move you make this month will be the right one. Make sure though you can afford the luxuries that you crave, whatever they are, after dealing with your commitments.

Aries (the Ram) 21 March - 20 April I know that you’re finding it hard getting back to normal. Whatever has hurt you in the past is over and done with and you now have to look forward. Don’t think about what happened, as that can be negative. Instead, embrace your new life, your new friends and environment and begin to enjoy yourself again.

Taurus (the Bull) 21 April - 21 May Whatever you have wanted in this life you have gone for it and got it. You have such a strong character that saying no to you is hard. Be strong when you have to, but let that caring side of your personality emerge too.

Gemini (the Twins) 22 May - 21 June It’s good to know that you can still be interesting. Someone unexpected could be about to appear in your life again. I don’t think its romantic, but you could still have a flicker if you want it enough. Creatively or romantically it’s up to you.

Cancer (the Crab) 22 June - 22 July You have always got caught up in the drama around you. Not always by choice. Being productive is something that you have always aimed for. Try and prioritise time for yourself as it’s very important that you’re firing on all cylinders.

Leo (the Lion) 23 July - 21 August You have been riding on a wave recently.

You’ve been doing the right thing where all is concerned it seems. But the support you’ve had over the years may not always be there so maybe you really have to do things that matter on your own. Like anything you have done before, you’ll get by just fine.

Virgo (the Virgin) 22 August - 23 September It’s about time the voice inside you gets heard. I don’t think you should let things slip by. Maybe the boundaries you have are not strong enough. Expressing how you feel and what you want to do won’t be a problem. In fact, those close to you will say it’s about time.

Libra (the Scales) 24 September - 23 October Whatever you’ve been through really needs to come out somehow. Finding closure on any problem is a good way to start. The tension that’s around you might be sorted quite easily by talking about and is a start. Taking the first step to heal will put you on the path to recovery.

Scorpio (the Scorpion) 24 October - 22 November Making sure your future is bright has always been part of your plan. You shouldn’t worry about what other people have. Life isn’t a competition to see who has the best stuff.

Stay focused and you will have your dreams.

Sagittarius (the Archer) 23 November - 22 December When you feel confident anything is possible.

However, make sure you’re not coming across as cocky. You might get away with asking for something that you’ve wanted for a while.

Capricorn (the Goat) 23 December - 20 January If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the responsibilities that you have, try and take a step back. It won’t hurt anyone. You have to think of yourself more, otherwise there’s a possibility that you could be heading for a mishap.

80 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

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HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

Vinegar Lane - lifestyle living Have you ever considered living where you work? Why take a train, or cross the harbour bridge when you can work in an entertainment precinct and utilise the additional free time for leisure.

Vinegar Lane offers a range of lifestyle options from apartment to townhouse and commercial accommodation.

This architectural precinct is punctuated by a private 550m2 landscaped reserve and design rules to create a high quality, peaceful environment to live, work and play.

Situated just 100 meters from the Ponsonby Countdown, retail shops, entertainment venues, and the green space of Western Park, the precinct is also handy to motorway connections.

Western Park, designed in 1873, offers a great walk - with or without the dog - along winding paths under a forest of mature trees and is a mere stone’s throw away from the full range of entertainment from

cafes, bars, restaurants through to K Road nightclubs. Who needs a car when you are gifted with an Uber within a minute, and where electric bikes and scooters abound?

Boutique ground level offices and retail shops from 50m2 for lease or purchase create an active streetscape during the day, while limited opening hours make the lane peaceful at night. 60m2 to 200m2 apartments or townhouses to suit singles through to families are available for rent or purchase. Construction is soon due to commence on the remaining sites. So be quick to secure your slice of lifestyle.

Join the sophisticated relaxed atmosphere where your daily commute PN could be as quick as a trip down the elevator- I did! 

For more information call Craig Watkins on 021 308 021, E: craig@mintre.co.nz or Bill Taylor on 021 933 480, E: bill@mintre.co.nz

APT 101 | APT 102 | PENTHOUSE | 11 CRUMMER ROAD | GREY LYNN Price by Negotiation

LUXURY APARTMENTS WITH PRIVATE COMMON 2

2

1

Newly completed luxury boutique apartment building designed by Bossley Architects.

Three exceptional, oversized two bedroom apartments plus a commercial unit, all North facing and adjoining your share of the 550m2 private common. Each property enjoys the entire level (or two) which provides additional sense of ownership not often found in apartment living.

Located in the architectural Vinegar Lane precinct which offers additional peace and privacy controls.

• Huge entertainer kitchens • Secure car parking included • Partial ownership of private common green • Generous outdoor living with views • Just 100 paces from Western park and Ponsonby Road • Buy one or buy them all Viewing will impress.

OPEN HOMES: SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11.30AM - 12.00PM

BILL TAYLORLicensed (REAA 2008)

CRAIG WATKINSLicensed (REAA 2008)

Property Sales Specialist

Director

M: 021 933 480 E: bill@mintre.co.nz

M: 021 308 021 E: craig@mintre.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 83

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

Enjoying outside living in comfort As the cooler weather gives way to warmer days, now is the time to invest in quality pieces of outdoor furniture. A stunning range of all-weather wicker and solid teak furniture, is the perfect option for elegant seating and dining that will last summer after summer.

JI Home’s classic wicker-style furniture is created on a rustproof, powder-coated aluminium frame, using handwoven polyethylene weave to produce a classic natural ‘vintage’ finish with extreme durability.

Complemented with outdoor cushions in a quickdry foam and solution dyed acrylic fabric creates the perfect pieces for outdoor seating.

Visit the incredible JI Home showroom and let the team help you select the outdoor setting that will be the centrepiece for summer celebrations for many years.

Solid teak tables are specially designed for outdoor conditions, ageing gracefully and looking fabulous for years to come, they are the perfect partner for wicker seating.

2. Artwood Anthony Round Outdoor Coffee Table Set

1. Artwood Santa Monica Sofa

3. Artwood Santa Monica Armchair

3

2 1

JI HOME, 36 Pollen Street, T: 09 930 6268, www.jihome.nz

FURNITURE DESIGN STORE Open: Mon-Fri 10am–4pm, Sat 10am–2pm or by appointment.

Ph: 09 930 6268. Free car parking in the basement.

84 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

@ Rose & Heather

2.

1.

1. A very limited number of classic R+H Tide and Time clocks for Christmas. Two sizes available – $480 and $590 2. Announcing an exciting new range of Weave Cushions, Rugs and Bovis Bed Linen, now in store.

ROSE & HEATHER, 366 Great North Road, T: 09 376 2895, www.roseandheather.com

FAMILY COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS OR OFF TO THE BACH?

GUEST & DAKOTA BEDS from $ 2 7 8 0 & $ 3 5 8 0 MATTRESSES from $ 3 1 9 0

www. roseandheather.co.nz 366 Great North Rd. GreyLynn t: (09)3762895 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 85

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

Blazer seating system and Daiki armchair

ECC’s premier furniture brand arrives on our shores Minotti 2020 Collection now in store.

ECC is excited to reveal the 2020 collection from Minotti recently arrived and on display in the custom built Minotti Studio at the ECC Auckland showroom. The new collection exhibits all the Minotti hallmarks of contemporary international style with strong Italian roots.

exemplified by its precise, meticulous sartorial craftsmanship. All the surfaces of the elements feature stitching, designing evenly spaced bands on the covering of the base, cushions, armrests and backrest, creating a quilting.

Minotti’s collaboration with designers with strong cultural identities continues in 2020, reflecting Minotti’s desire to look to the future and the world as a source of different aesthetic tastes and cultures.

Nendo, Kogan, GamFratesi and Delcourt join Rodolfo Dordoni in a coordinated collection in which the pieces are interchangeable through the continuous dialogue between the geometric volumes and shapes.

Scandinavian values meet Italian tradition in Fynn, a series of armchairs created by combining fine cabinet making in the wooden elements and sophisticated upholstering with fabric or saddle-hide.

The signature element of the Fynn seats is the wooden armrest, elongated and slightly curved, rounded and smooth to the touch, 100% handmade.

Three new sofa collections have arrived accompanied by distinct armchairs, coffee and side tables and a dining table setting.

Inspired by the Brazilian architect’s many trips to Japan, the Daiki seats are born out of Marcio Kogan’s deep passion for Japanese culture and are conceived as a real tribute to Japanese design.

The Daiki family includes armchairs with a deep seat, created using sophisticated wood crafting techniques. Daiki offers a design that also explores and reinterprets the American Mid-Century atmospheres in its bold, clean lines, precious materials and balanced proportions.

Contemporary, with a strong architectural appeal and pure lines reminiscent of the mid-century American spirit, the Connery seating system sports an exquisite aesthetic and design that instantly catch the eye. The clever combination of fine materials and sophisticated details adds a hint of couture to its design.

Airy, with constructive details linked to Japanese tradition, the Torii modular seats and coffee tables play with round edged volumes, thin profiles and the apparent formal simplicity of an extremely detailed design. The metal structure of the legs of the seats and tables is Nendo’s nod to the image of the “Torii”, the entrance gate to shinto shrines in Japan.

Blazer is one of the creations that best expresses the most authentic artisanal attitude of Minotti, using a haute couture approach

Torii seating system

86 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

Linha is Kogan’s response to the challenge of designing a dining table with a large span, a structure only 16 mm thick and a top that can reach up to 4 metres in length. Visually, it appears extremely lightweight and airy, despite the strong impact of the materials used, in which marble boldly takes centre stage.

The Thorburn family look forward to welcoming you into the showroom to view the 2020 Minotti collection.

ECC, 39 Nugent Street, T: 09 379 9680, www.ecc.co.nz

Connery seating system

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ecc.co.nz

Minotti

2020 Collection

PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 87

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

Why you should choose tile over traditional marble Whether you’re revamping your home with a new look or starting from scratch, the marble look is timeless.

Marble is the epitome of luxury, creating a beautiful finish to any room with beautiful swirls in shades of earthy reds, chocolate, and grey.

Deciding between natural marble or man-made tile can be a conundrum, but when it comes to price, look and longevity, porcelain tile is hard to beat.

For a wise investment, John Ryan from Tonic Tile Lounge suggests using tiles instead of traditional marble: “Tiles are more cost effective and durable, meaning they’re easy to maintain without compromising on style.”

Over the years, advancements in technology have made it possible to manufacture tiles that look exactly like marble but are much more durable than natural stone.

Tonic Tile Lounge’s biggest supplier, Imola, has been manufacturing ceramics for nearly 150 years. The tiles achieve a natural, authentic look marbling through a unique manufacturing process known as dryfix technology.

As part of the manufacturing process, a machine distributes quartz powder on strategic areas of the tiles to create the stone veins and brilliancy of marble, giving it a depth not previously achieved.

John unreservedly believes tiles are the superior choice: “The fact is that through this new technology, you can achieve the same top-end marble appearance without breaking the bank.

“Tiles are less expensive to buy, manage, handle and install and unlike natural stone or marble, are not porous and do not require ongoing maintenance,” explains John.

With tiles available in big formats (1200mm x 2400mm and 1600 x 3200mm) they are not only amazing for showers to avoid grout lines, but also utilised as bench tops and splash backs.

Natural marble is formed over millions of years. Marble can be a softer, porous material meaning it’s prone to stains and therefore requiring ongoing care and protection to retain the lustre and beauty.

The non-porous nature of tiles mean there is no need for sealing or refinishing.

“Tiles will stand the test of time, will be more friendly on the budget and will look amazing well beyond your expectations,” says John.

Tonic Tile Lounge is a New Zealand owned and operated business that is Aotearoa’s purveyor of exclusive European tiles. The boutique designer showroom is based at 254 Richmond Road Grey Lynn, (next to Homage and Bauhaus).

10am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, by appointment any other time.

254 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland (next to Homage and Bauhaus) M: 021 644 728 / www.tonictiles.co.nz

88 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

CORNWALLIS, 100 Cornwallis Road

3

Tropical Paradise – A Waterfront Safe Haven

2

2

Floor: 350 sq m (approximately) | Land: 1,582 sq m

Along the Pohutukawa fringed shoreline of Auckland’s Manukau Harbour where the sea rolls across the sand below, Orpheus Quay is an incredible safe haven. City stresses slip away as you are immersed in a lush tropical garden paradise. Just a 30 km drive from downtown Auckland, the seductive 1,582 sq m private beach hideaway reminds of a luxurious Balinese resort with sweeping harbour views from virtually every room of the large timeless three bedroom home with office. Airy, light-filled living areas feature high pitched timber ceilings and unfold to expansive sundrenched decks, outdoor entertaining cabanas and the pool. Lower level bedrooms all open to the pool. On the upper floor, a heavenly master sanctuary offers a spacious dressing room and spa-like bathroom. Accommodating huge storage throughout plus a wine cellar and kitchen scullery. A place surrounded by nature where time stands still.

Motivated vendors have purchased and keen to move on. Stake your claim in a Kiwi paradise.

PRICE: $2,950,000 VIEW: Contact agents RICHARD BURT BFA, GradDipT M: +64 21 773 187 richard.burt@nzsir.com STEWART MORGAN BSc (Hons) M: +64 21 933 305 stewart.morgan@nzsir.com

achieve more Exceed your expectations with us

RICHARD BURT BFA, GradDipT M: +64 21 773 187 richard.burt@nzsir.com

STEWART MORGAN BSc (Hons) M: +64 21 933 305 stewart.morgan@nzsir.com

If you are considering selling, or are interested in a snapshot of where your property sits in the current market, contact Richard or Stewart today.

nzsothebysrealty.com Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

HOME WHERE THE HEART IS

@ Metrix 1. Duravit’s archetypical open oval of the Happy D. design classic runs through all elements of the Happy D.2 Plus range designed by Sieger Design. Form and utility is delivered with toilets and bidets that are available as wall mounted, floor standing and back-to-wall options.

2. When creating a slightly darker, contemporary bathroom design, another key element to consider is the toilet. This concept used to be restricted as many toilets were only available in white. However, this is now a thing of the past as toilets and matching basins in the Happy D.2 Plus collection are available in Anthracite Matt providing an extra layer of individuality and class.

3. SensoWash® Starck f is next-generation; all components have been optimised so the technology is ‘invisibly’ located within the ceramic body. The flat seat and the white cover located behind it form a precise, harmonious unit–a shower-toilet with the latest, comfortenhancing technology in an uncompromising, minimalistic look.

4. DuraStyle Basic toilets feature Rimless flushing technology that enables an innovative and powerful flush. Water flows in the form of a horizontal arc and then vertically, before flushing the entire surface of the bowl without splashing. This ensures perfect hygienic flushing results with a smaller volume of water.

1

5. How can you create a modern yet timeless bathroom series that adapts to different styles? By reducing its design entirely and focusing on the user’s personality and individuality. ME by Starck floor standing or wall mounted toilets feature optimal water-saving flush mechanism and toilet seats with soft closure, manufactured with precision and removable with just the push of a button.

Pure elegance.  PN www.metrix.co.nz

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90 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

5

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

The best seat in the house.

SensoWash® Starck f SensoWash® represents a range of shower-toilet seats dedicated to modern toilet hygiene.

The SensoWash® Starck f model is the top of the range and features a remote opening seat, rearwash, comfortwash, ladywash, warm air dryer, heated seat, night light and memory keys for two users, all controlled by an intuitive remote control.

Designer: Philippe Starck View online or in our Parnell Showroom

Toilets. Basins. Baths. Tapware.

Accessories. Saunas. Showers.

155 The Strand, Parnell metrix.co.nz

Photography: Jo Moore

PONSONBY PETS

Make it a ‘pawesome’ Christmas for all End of year festivities can overlook our furry friends but here’s how to include them in the fun.

Unbelievable as it may be, Christmas is just around the corner, and we’re more pleased than ever to usher in the festive season after what a year it’s been. As we start to make plans for the holidays, it’s important to keep our furry friends in mind. Here are some of SPCA’s top tips and tricks to ensure a ‘pawesome’ Christmas for the whole family – human and animal alike!

Make presents for your pets There’s nothing more exciting than seeing presents start to pile up under the tree so why not include your animals in the fun? After all, what would all those days at home have looked like without their companionship. They deserve a treat of thanks!

Unlike some family members, they truly don’t need money spent to make them happy, and there’s loads of DIY gifts you can make with items from around the house. See www.spca.nz/DIYtoys for some fun and easy ideas.

Exercise canine chocolate caution Christmas always means a lot more chocolate around the house, often disguised as a present under the tree; our dogs’ noses know better though! Chocolate smells delicious to dogs, but it’s toxic to them and will make them extremely sick, so it’s imperative to be really careful about keeping chocolate out of their reach.

Let’s give them a better life.

Your support will help SPCA care for animals year round Go to www.spca.nz/donate

Take animals off the Christmas list Pet ownership is a long-term commitment. While the idea of giving a sweet kitten or puppy as a present might be appealing and come with good intentions, unfortunately many animals gifted at Christmas end up being unwanted or unloved by people who never planned for them. Pets should always be a considered, family-wide and educated decision, taking into account lifestyle, needs of a pet, and costs, like dog registration, food, vet bills, and pet insurance.  PN www.spca.nz

92 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NEW OR REFRESHED DECK FOR SUMMER? There’s nothing better than relaxing in a beautiful new outdoor space.

We deliver the highest standard of service, commitment and quality workmanship, so let’s get your summer sorted.

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HAVE A PROJECT? CALL FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE Call 021 062 9104 Email eddie@reidpropertyservices.co.nz Visit reidpropertyservices.co.nz

Successfully Selling Brilliant Homes In Your Neighbourhood AUCTION 5 Wallace St, Herne Bay • • •

1 4 3 2 2 Exquisite home with luxurious interior design detailing.

North facing living opens to private landscaped garden and pool.

Master bedroom suite enjoys water views and is like a five star resort hotel.

AUCTION 87 Old Mill Road, Westmere • • •

4 2 2 2 Finally a generous sized family home with north facing living.

Large 625m2 site provides plenty of room for children to play.

Located at the quiet end of the street.

AUCTION 6/79 Shelley Beach Road, St Marys Bay 3

• • •

2

1

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Panoramic views from the Sky Tower across to the Harbour Bridge.

Ideal city fringe living in this premium neigbourhood.

The north facing aspect offers light and sunny living throughout the home.

“We thoroughly enjoyed listing our house with Felicity. We found her positive, honest and passionate approach to the sale made us want to buy the house ourselves.”

10 Ireland Street Freemans Bay

30A Hamilton Road Herne Bay

- Charlotte and Ben 2/14 Peel St, Westmere

Felicity Scott BBS | Residential Sales M 0274 522 241 B 09 376 3039 E f.scott@barfoot.co.nz | barfoot.co.nz/f.scott PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 93

ARTS + CULTURE

Another “must be there concert” Saturday 28 November, 2.30pm Double chemistry with dazzling duo Amalia Hall & Ashley Brown performing Brahms concerto for violin and cello with St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra - Conductor David Kay Amalia Hall – Violinist Has received widespread acclaim for her ability to move audiences with her “sumptuous and sweet tone”, inherent musicality and natural facility.

Born in NZ, at eight Amalia began playing chamber music with her siblings in the Hall String Quartet and has gone on to play chamber music with many eminent musicians.

• In her teens Amalia won all of the major awards in New Zealand and her international competition successes almost beggar belief. Check out her web site www.amaliahall.com • In 2016 Amalia’s appointment as Concertmaster of Orchestra Wellington made her New Zealand’s youngest concertmaster.

• In 2019 she was appointed Violinist of NZTrio, described as “New Zealand’s most indispensable ensemble”.

Amalia currently plays on a Vincenzo Rugeri violin from c. 1694, generously on loan from a private benefactor.

Ashely Brown – Cellist Acclaimed as a musician of ‘unimpeachable artistry’, Ashley Brown is one of New Zealand’s leading soloists, collaborators, chamber musicians and recording artists. He was a member of the Turnovsky Trio, Principal Cellist of the APO, is a founder of NZTrio and is a passionate advocate for New Zealand music.

His teachers have included Alexander Ivashkin, Aldo Parisot and William Pleeth. His musical curiosity has led him to share the stage with diverse composers and artists like Dame Gillian Whitehead, Moana Maniapoto, Michael Houstoun, Kristian Jaarvi and Neil Finn.

Ashley plays the 1762 William Forster ‘Liberte’ cello.

St Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra will give you one of the finest musical experiences in Auckland. www.smco.org.nz TICKETS Eventfinda or door sales cash only. Adults $30 Concessions $25 Children under 12 free. Student Rush on the day $15.  PN ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY CHURCH corner Wellesley & Hobson Streets. www.smco.org.nz

NEW

Sat 28 November at 2.30pm programme

Brahms Academic Festival Overture Op 80 in C minor Brahms Hungarian Dances (Selection) Brahms Variations on a theme by Haydn Op 56 Brahms Concerto for Violin and Cello Op 102 in A minor soloists Amalia Hall & Ashley Brown conductor David Kay st matthew-in-the-city Cnr of Wellesley & Hobson Street, Auckland City

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94 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

ARTS + CULTURE ‘Tropical Paradise’ by Angela Maritz

Detail of ‘Turquoise Madagasgar Tree Flower’

by Joshua Davison

‘The Study in Time’ by Matt Griffin

Flagstaff Gallery presents Aotearoa New Zealand’s best in contemporary art The Flagstaff Gallery is bringing its most sought-after artists to exhibit in Ponsonby Central from 23 November - 6 December.

Last year we brought you Gillie and Marc. This year the Gallery is bringing new works from them once again, alongside 20 exciting artists who will be exhibiting over 70 original art works ranging from paintings and sculptures to limited edition prints.

As specialists in New Zealand contemporary art, the pop-up promises an outstanding showcase of new and emerging talents as well as household names on the New Zealand and global art scenes. Offering the latest works, from Joshua Davidson to Tony Ogle, this year’s exhibition is one you need to experience.

Surround and immerse yourself in the rich botanics of Daniella Hulme, or have fun with the joyful sculptures of Gillie and Marc. Be whisked away

by Angela Maritz’s landscapes, marvel at the beauty of Matt Griffin’s realism and find unity in Sophia Minson’s mythical works.

There is something for everyone at The Flagstaff’s Pop-Up Gallery and we can be fairly certain you’ll find an exquisite gift in this year’s exhibition.

Join us for drinks and an opportunity to meet the artists at our opening event in Ponsonby Central on Monday 23 November at 5pm.

FLAGSTAFF POP-UP GALLERY, T: 09 445 1142, Unit 1, Ponsonby Central, www.flagstaff.nz E: gallery@flagstaff.nz

‘Aoraki Fractalis’ - Sophia Minson

‘They loved Riding’ - Gillie and Marc PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 95

ARTS + CULTURE

@ Scott Lawrie Gallery

@ Whitespace

Rebecca Wallis: With The Absent Other - until 21 November

Lianne Edwards: Testing the waters - from 8-26 November

Rebecca Wallis is an artist who has gained significant international attention for her work. After completing her Masters in Visual Arts at Goldsmiths College in London, she’s practiced between London and Auckland.

Beauty and chaos, transience and permanence are key phrases in Lianne Edwards’ analysis of nature and its mindless destruction by humankind.

Her third solo show with us is one of her most dynamic and exciting yet – paintings on silk that are folded, with both impressions opened up to display a counterpoint mirror image, with a deeply emotional resonance.

At first glance, these works look like they occupy the edges of traditional formal abstraction.

But they are far more than that, balancing metaphors of tension and separation with the deep resonance of loss that a parent feels when a child becomes ‘the other’; quite literally finding their own path outside the lines of parental control and influence. This is a current source of personal and family exploration for Rebecca. As she explains, “The work is about the intensity of our felt experiences between others, specifically between bonding and separation. It’s made to validate the intensity of shared experiences – in my case between mother and daughter – experienced through separation. And to recognise possibilities of openings and expansion lying beyond separation.

It’s expressed through the act of folding a whole sheet of paint in half where the two sides bond together in areas. The unfolding exposes the restructuring of the whole and is then transferred using transparency to highlight the felt absence.

The motivation for Rebecca’s work is deeply personal – sometimes confrontingly so.

And these beautiful paintings – all recent works from her studio – resonate deeply with contemporary ideas of the ‘feminine’.

Powerful and moving when experienced first-hand, these works are highly popular, and this is a show we’re especially proud to bring to the new space in Ponsonby/Grey Lynn.

Everyone welcome. Free parking at 15 Williamson Avenue. Open Thursday to Saturday 11am to 5pm.  PN

Lianne Edwards’ background in marine ecology and resource management, and as an artist serves to position her at the forefront of eco-artists in New Zealand. Her interest in both science and art finds its voice in artworks that make comment on our relationship with the natural world. All too often humankind is found wanting in an examination of our interaction with nature. Edwards’ work, often microscopically delicate, or alternatively, commanding a strong physical presence, questions how we value the natural world.

The subtlety and aesthetic appeal of her works belies the underlying environmental messages and important themes she addresses.

Edwards has collaborated with organisations such as the Sea Cleaners initiative, and also with wildlife scientists to draw attention to what’s happening in our marine environment and with our critically endangered native bird populations. Lianne is of Tongan, Irish, Scottish and English descent. Born and bred in South Auckland she is now based in the top of the South Island.

“I personally feel a very strong connection to the Pacific region, firstly from growing up on an island nation, New Zealand, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, secondly due to my Tongan ancestry, and thirdly because of my background and interest in marine ecology and conservation. I’m concerned about what’s happening to our oceans and to our native plants and animals and the future that we will be leaving for generations to come.”

Lianne has work in the collections of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, Chartwell Collection, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, James Wallace Arts Trust and many private and public collections.  PN WHITESPACE, 20 Monmouth Street, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz

SCOTT LAWRIE GALLERY, 2 Murdoch Road, T: 021 0826 5633, www.scottlawrie.com

Rebecca Wallis - With and without myself

Rebecca Wallis

~ With the Absent Other 31 Oct – 21 Nov 2020 2 Murdoch Rd, Grey Lynn (Off 15 Williamson Ave) Thurs to Sat, 11 – 5pm

8 – 26 NOVEMBER

LIANNE EDWARDS

TESTING THE WATERS

scottlawrie.com 20 monmouth st, grey lynn, auckland | whitespace.co.nz

96 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Waiheke Community Art Gallery introduces its first Fine Art Online Auction of Contemporary Artworks.

The vibrant and dynamic selection of works include paintings, ceramic and sculpture.

Works have been contributed by artists who have previously been part of important art events curated by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery including the Artist in Residence and Sculpture on the Gulf.

“We are delighted to announce the auction includes works from international artists Euan McLeod, Mark Surridge and Bronwen Newbury, together with Michel Tuffery, Sarah Guppy, Virginia King, Jeff Thomson and Gregor Kregar, says gallery director Linda Chalmers.

FINE ART AUCTION

ON-LINE 13 – 20 November 2020

James Wright, Jeff Thomson, Virginia King, Bronwen Newbury, Euan Macleod, Kazu Nakagawa, Christian Nicolson, Jim Wheeler, Mark Surridge, Richard Adams and others IN SUPPORT OF

This is a major initiative for the Waiheke gallery following four months of closure during Covid and the cancellation of many programmes this year.

Register for the Fine Art On-line Auction and bid.

Bids Open Friday 13 November and close 5pm Friday 20 November. View the full list of artists on-line, www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz

Well-known, established contemporary artists

PLACE YOUR BIDS – ONE WEEK ONLY Friday 13 – Friday 20 November View collection on-line and register

Final Bids 5pm Friday 20 November

www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz

Euan Mcleod

Clive Humphreys

Astral Land VIII Mark Surridge

Anne Hudson

Register to bid at www.waihekeartgallery.org.nz PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 97

ARTS + CULTURE

Fine Art Online Auction - distinguished artists, local and international

ARTS + CULTURE

Uptown Art Scene After the social disruption and restrictions of the year, Artweek Auckland was a joyous celebration that brought the community back out onto the streets and into the venues.

Art is not just an object – it is a catalyst for social interaction, and this was clearly demonstrated over the nine days of Artweek last month. Free events beckoned people into public and private spaces across the city, from the North Shore to South Auckland and points West and East.

We were desperate to begin socialising again, and our new-found anxieties were alleviated through the effect of art on us – the colour, the stories, wonderment and contemplation. This tenth Artweek had an incredible attendance and sense of fun, and was just what the city needed.

One very special event in our neighbourhood was the free Open Late Tour, proudly sponsored by I Love Ponsonby and the K’Road Business Association, with refreshments from Tiger Beer and Crafters Union.

endemicworld on Ponsonby Road

On the Thursday evening, five walking tours and a cycle tour explored the arts precinct concentrated in the K’Road/Ponsonby/ Grey Lynn area. To build on the previous year’s popularity, organiser Emil McAvoy brought in new tour guide Ashleigh Taupaki, who joined the existing talent of Zoe Black, Julia Craig, Evan Woodruffe and himself, and made a tour accessible to those with mobility issues for the first time.

The Open Late Tour took in the vast visual arts ecology of our neighbourhood: of course the contemporary art galleries that cluster in K’Road, Putiki/Monmouth Streets, and now spread down Ponsonby Road, but also the wealth of public and artist-run galleries like Objectspace, Tautai, Artspace, RM, Audio Foundation, the art schools and community art centres Browne School of Art, Toi Ora, Studio One Toi Tu, the artist studios at 1B & 3 Ponsonby Road, and endemicworld, which combines studios, gallery, and artist services under one roof.

98 PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020

Late Night Tours at Artspace on K’Road

For a cold and rainy evening, attendance was a hearty 87% of prior bookings, and a affirmation that we need art in our lives. Hear hear for artists! When our days are grey and bleak, they open their spaces up to show us ways to heal.

PN (EVAN WOODRUFFE/STUDIO ART SUPPLIES) 

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Experienced wedding & ceremony celebrant.

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empower people all over Auckland with sustainable living choices and develop and maintain a therapeutic garden. Join now at: www.kelmarnagardens.nz/donate

T: 09 256 1081 M: 021 868 610 www.aucklandcelebrant.co.nz

T: 378 9560 M: 0274 746 507 E: Phillipa@hotpropertyrentals.co.nz 1/1 Franklin Road, Ponsonby www.hotpropertyrentals.co.nz

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@dedwood deli PONSONBY NEWS+ November 2020 99

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