PASIFIKA FESTIVAL AT WESTERN SPRINGS LAKESIDE PARK
The stages were as spectacular as usual. The authentic movements of traditional dance, the sounds and rhythm of drums, the colour and patterns of hibiscus and frangipani made it hard to choose which performance to watch as each island was bringing its A Game to the March 2026 Pasifika Festival at Western Springs Lakeside Park.
The rest of the festival strayed from that theme looking more like a French colonial envision with the pointy white tents set in military-like rows and the lack of the arts of the Pacific.
The price of stall hire making it not viable for freighting goods of tapa cloth, black pearls, weaving and tivaevae appliqué across the Tasman. The food stalls had to put their prices beyond the budget of those South Auckland families to taste the pit cooked kai – Mãori hangi, Fijian lovo, Samoan and Tongan umu, Hawaiian imu and Tahitian ahima'a.
Auckland Transport closed off Motions Road to parking with orange cones and set up a five minute loading zone on Great North Road, fining and towing offenders.. AT did provide a zone for disabled parking. They apparently provided free buses from South Auckland but that was poorly advertised and didn’t even appear on their page. The last bus left at 3.40pm on Sunday while the festival didn’t close until 6pm.
People just didn’t come – it’s not as if cycling from GI was an option!
The Waitematā Local Board had talked about replacing the iconic double hump eel bridge because the crowds blocked it while moving from village to village but the photo below shows how few were using it, so luckily I saved it from demolition.
Sadly, again Pasifika was still a shadow of its former self as I reported in PN April 2025 and I have reported this to the office of the Mayor in the hope that they will fix it so the festival will be restored to its former glory in 2027.
Gael Baldock, Community advocate
CITIES ARE MADE UP OF “PEOPLE, NOT STREETS AND BUILDINGS."
Alain Bertaud, a self described ‘urbanist’ visited Auckland 14 years ago and sponsored by Auckland Urban Development Office (ex-Panuku) visited again for a lecture in the ‘Auckland Conversations’. He is a distinguished visiting scholar, Mercatus Center, George Mason University and Senior Fellow, Marron Institute of Urban Management and lecturer at New York University, with over five decades of experience in urban planning, land markets and spatial economics. He is the author of Order Without Design: How Markets Shape Cities.
I was expecting Alain to be promoting ‘15 Minute Cities’, an urbanist concept of restricting movement to 15 minutes' vehicle travel from your home and punishing with fines those who exceed this distance. This concept is designed to reduce vehicle emissions.
Instead he said cities were made up of “people, not streets and buildings."
Saying that planners are only able to open up possibilities not to dictate how people live, he used the example of town houses become popular after the Unitary Plan made building them easier... people get to choose whether they "travel 15 minutes or an hour to get to work from where they choose to live.”
Retired NZ Herald journalist Simon Wilson MC, was obviously surprised by these comments as he is a big believer of 15 Minute Cities. Alain explained that planners have to admit when they get it wrong. Those questions can be heard in the video conversations.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/
Auckland Council chief planner Megan Tyler, and Richard Hills, chair of Planning Committee, were also speakers at this event so I do hope they heeded that advice. Auckland is a large city and we Kiwis don’t like being controlled where we can go within our city.
Gael Baldock, community advocate
LETTERS CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
NEW ZEALAND’S SWEETEST STAY ADDS MORE BOOKINGS
Whittaker’s Hotel Sweet first wave sell-out sparks another chance for Chocolate Lovers to book their stay.
Lovers, your time has arrived. Whittaker’s has officially opened the doors to New Zealand’s sweetest stay, with guests now checking in to Hotel Sweet.
And with the initial release of rooms selling out in under an hour, Chocolate Lovers who missed out have another chance to secure a stay with a limited number of additional bookings going live this morning.
Created to mark 130 years of Whittaker’s chocolate-making, the one-of-a-kind chocolate ‘sweet’ sees the brand take over Auckland’s Michelin Key-awarded Hotel Fitzroy, bringing a more indulgent point of view to the stay.
Guests are welcomed with a chilled Whittaker’s chocolate milk on arrival, paired with a Creamy Milk Sante Bar, before stepping into their luxury suite to find a Whittaker’s welcome treat along with playful details, from soft furnishings to robes, slippers, premium linens and more.
Guests can expect plenty of Whittaker’s delights along the way. Bowls of Artisan Squares and Chocolate Pods placed throughout the hotel, plus a library of Whittaker’s chocolate past and present on display, inviting the most loyal Chocolate Lovers to browse, reminisce, and rediscover a few old favourites.
Afternoon high tea comes with additional Whittaker’s treats, while evening turndown brings a final touch of chocolate to the day. Breakfast is delivered to the room, with a Whittaker’s touch of course, then each stay ends on a high, with guests departing with their favourite 250g Whittaker’s block, wrapped as a parting gift.
Holly Whittaker, Co-Chief Operating Officer, says the response so far has been a reflection of the role Whittaker’s continues to play in Kiwi life.
“Seeing the first release sell out so quickly was pretty incredible. It’s a reminder of how much Whittaker’s means to our Chocolate Lovers, and how excited they are to be part of this milestone with us,” she says.
“We wanted to create something that felt genuinely special; a little nostalgic, a little indulgent, and something that people could really immerse themselves in, even if just for one night.”
Open for a limited time only, Hotel Sweet will continue welcoming guests across its two-week residency, with availability remaining extremely limited.
All proceeds from Hotel Sweet are donated to Save the Kiwi, Whittaker’s longest-standing charity partner.
The second release of bookings will be available via
A Chocolate Lover checks into the Whittaker’s Hotel Sweet
Designer: ARNA MARTIN M: 021 354 984 arna@cocodesign.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, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwisewithout 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.
LETTERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
HAVE OUR NEIGHBOURHOODS BEEN ‘IMPROVED' BY AUCKLAND TRANSPORT (AT)?
Wasn’t it interesting to note in the recent Herald article about the most congested roads in Auckland, that without exception all those noted in our neighbourhoods had been ‘improved' by Auckland Transport (AT).
In particular, the deliberate congestion inflicted on us all by AT in Meola Road, Ponsonby Road, Great North Road, etc, requires answers as to why AT spent over $100,000,000 of rate payers' and tax payers' money to ‘improve' these key thoroughfares by deliberately congesting them to the point where some of them have traffic flow rates of just nine kilometres per hour.
How does that ‘improve' our lives? Answer: It doesn’t!
The AT strategy of deliberately congesting major thoroughfares while closing lanes for normal traffic, but protecting those lanes for buses, has not added any benefit or value to the significant majority of the population. Indeed, it has inflicted a much worse situation on the lives of all of us.
Thank goodness AT has been disbanded.
Now we can only hope and pray that council does not just employ the same drones from within AT for the new structure within council.
New leadership and new, more customer focused performance is essential.
New and more practical thinking is required by the new staff and these new staff must be more personally connected with, and responsive to, the communities they serve.
More of the same destructive practices that AT implemented is simply unacceptable.
Meola Road was highlighted to AT and council as an emerging nightmare well before planning was approved, yet AT obtusely proceeded with their plans despite obvious and more appropriate solutions available to them.
The cycle lane on just the eastern side already existed and a simple white line down the middle, as used in many other locations, would have easily separated pedestrians from cyclists.
Removing parking in Meola Road that had been used by parents watching children's sports, customers visiting MOTAT or people walking their dogs was simply spiteful and totally unnecessary.
Add in multiple speed bumps, pedestrian crossings, bus stops that project out into the thoroughfares (and stop all the traffic) and you have the simply dumbest example of bureaucratic stupidity of the last 20 years.
AT destroyed themselves by not listening to their victims.
It is now up to councillors and the Mayor to quickly correct these classic mistakes – all of which are classic examples of group think stupidity that AT management and their board have inflicted on us all.
AT staff will try and argue that it will be too expensive to correct their mistakes (as they successfully did with West Lynn, after ruining the shopping centre there), but these mistakes must now be quickly rectified to immediately relieve the congestion that AT deliberately caused – despite being told by many of the obvious problems before they proceeded.
Better to quickly fix the problem now, rather than wait for public frustration and anger to fester!
Roger Hawkins, Herne Bay
IT’S A TEAM EFFORT... WE COULDN’T
DO IT
WITHOUT OUR CONTRIBUTORS
CHLÖE SWARBRICK
Chlöe Swarbrick is the MP for and the biggest fan of Auckland Central - she is Co-Leader of the Green Party of Aotearoa NZ.
CONNOR CRAWFORD
I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective. I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.
DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM
For the last 53 years I’ve been a freelance entertainment journalist and author. I’ve lived in the Grey Lynn area for over three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.
DESLEY SIMPSON
I am a dedicated and approachable Deputy Mayor of Auckland, with a handson approach and genuine commitment to improving local communities and solving issues in Auckland.
GAEL BALDOCK
We each follow our moral compass shaped by training. Mine is sculpting, architecture, sociology, anthropology and betterment of our shared world by community advocacy… and saving trees.
HELENE RAVLICH
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.
HELEN WHITE
Helen is the Member of Parliament for Mt Albert and has a long-standing commitment to social justice, community well-being and ethical leadership. She is also keen on yoga.
KEN RING
My yearly NZ Weather Almanacs began in 1999. During the tragic 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, my work created international interest. I currently live in Ponsonby.
LISA PRAGER
A life long advocate for community issues, I am passionate about protecting and enhancing our natural environment and built heritage.
MELISSA LEE
I have been a National List MP based in Mt Albert for the past 16 years. I am dedicated to listening and understanding the needs of our community, working hard to deliver outcomes and drive positive change.
MIKE LEE
I am the councillor for Waitematā & Gulf. A former seafarer, former chair of the ARC, conservationist, PT advocate, and author. I have represented the Ponsonby area since 1992.
PHIL PARKER
Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.
PUNEET DHALL
I am an Aucklander of Indian origin, Punjabi and Sikh. I have a keen interest in food, wine and politics.
ROSS THORBY - QSM
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.
SARITA SOLVIG BLANKENBURG
I am a passionate Ayurveda practitioner based in Ponsonby for the last 15 years. Inspiring others to live a healthy and fulfilled life is my higher purpose.
SARAH TROTMAN, ONZM
She has been rated the most effective Governor on the Waitematā Local Board. However, we rate her as the most effective community advocate, who led the C&R team from her sole voice on the Board to the majority at the last election, until...
E-BIKES, E-SCOOTERS AND BIKES DON’T BELONG ON THE FOOTPATH
Living Streets Aotearoa, the national organisation that advocates for pedestrians in New Zealand, welcomes four of the five proposals in the Government’s lane-use improvements consultation, but is concerned that one proposal poses serious dangers for pedestrians.
Living Streets Aotearoa President Tim Jones comments: “Living Streets Aotearoa says footpaths are for people on foot and for users of low-speed mobility devices such as wheelchairs. That’s who they were designed and built for.
"We support building safe, separated footpaths for pedestrians and safe, separated lanes for cyclists and e-scooter users. We should build infrastructure that meets everyone’s needs, instead of crowding the footpath with fast-moving devices and increasing the risk of injuries for pedestrians. So we’re pleased to see a proposal that allows e-scooter users to use cycle lanes. That is a policy we have been advocating for several years.
“E-scooters and e-bikes don’t belong on the footpath because they are so often used in ways that pose a danger to all pedestrians, but especially to elderly pedestrians, parents walking with children and pedestrians with disabilities. So we are very concerned that Proposal 1 of the Government’s five proposals would allow children as old as 12 to ride bikes and e-bikes on the footpath with no speed restriction.
“If this proposal goes ahead it will endanger pedestrians. Having to share the footpath with cyclists can make pedestrians feel unsafe and deter them from walking. Ask yourself: would you like to be hit by a bike or e-bike going at high speed on the footpath?
"We propose that the Government stick with the status quo by restricting the use of bikes on footpaths to a younger age limit of five (pre-school) for those using small-wheeled (<355 mm diameter) bikes. E-bikes, with their greater weight and much greater speed, should absolutely not be allowed on the footpath.
"If any bikes or e-scooters are allowed on the footpath, they should only be permitted to be ridden at walking speed, with riding forbidden where it would be especially dangerous for pedestrians.
“When it comes to the other four proposals in this consultation, there is a lot to like,” says Tim Jones, “but in some cases we’d like to see them strengthened. Proposal 2 sets a minimum passing gap for drivers of motor vehicles passing other road users – that’s a good move. However, we are concerned that the proposed passing distances may not be wide enough.
“Proposal 3 allows e-scooters to be legally ridden in cycle lanes. This is a long-overdue move, so we’re very pleased that the minister and officials have taken this step. Living Streets Aotearoa thinks this proposal should be strengthened further so that, where a cycle lane is present, it is mandatory for e-scooters to be ridden in the cycle lane, not on the footpath. We want to see more safe, separated cycle lanes so there are designated places for people to ride such devices safely.
“A good bus network and good footpaths also go perfectly together. So we’re glad to see that Proposal 4 requires drivers to give way to buses, but we would like to see this extended to all roads, not just on urban roads. We say that rural bus stops and rural passengers matter too.
“Finally, Proposal 5 regarding berm parking is another change we’ve been advocating for, and we’re glad to see it.
“Overall, we think most of these proposals, if enacted, will make life better for pedestrians. But Proposal 1 does the opposite – it puts pedestrians at greater risk. The footpath is not the place for e-scooters, e-bikes or bikes. We’ll be telling the Government that loud and clear."
DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH CAROLE BEU
Carole Beu MNZM is the owner of The Women’s Book Shop on 105 Ponsonby Road, which she opened in1989.
Today, they house over 3000 book titles. It is one of the nicest and well set out book shops in New Zealand. It was awarded the Winning Independent Bookseller.
Do you come from a book selling background?
No, I was a secondary school English and drama teacher, and an actor before that.
Is there any one title of books that sell best?
Literary fiction – that's mainly what I read and can recommend to customers. I attach little hand-written reviews to the front covers of the novels I love to help people choose the good ones. Customers love them and trust my judgement.
We are recognised as a specialist in the area of counselling and therapy titles; professionals often send their clients here for specific books. We also have a great range of LGBTQI+ titles.
Are books on the decline?
Nonsense – an absolute myth! Some people use devices when travelling but real books are still as popular as ever.
What do you like most about Ponsonby?
Its vibrancy and quirkiness. A perfect location for a shop like mine.
How did you survive the pandemic?
Covid was kind to The Women's Bookshop because people needed books! We did huge online sales with our Courier Post man knocking on the door daily and collecting large cartons full of individual books going all over the country. In central Auckland, my lycra-clad neighbour gallantly rode his bike delivering to people's letterboxes – our own 'male delivery service'.
What was your childhood like?
Very middle class, suburban and safe. My mother would be horrified if she knew what a stroppy woman I have become!
I will die happy if?
If the narcissistic, entitled, power hungry, mentally unstable men who are currently ruling the world all die before me.
Favourite actress?
Olivia Coleman – she is brilliant in every different role she plays.
Dream holiday internationally?
In London, attending a stunning live theatre performance every evening.
What’s on your bucket list?
To attend more international literary festivals. Though the Auckland one each May, which I have been involved in since its beginnings, keeps going from strength to strength, with a stunning selection of international authors.
The most Kiwi thing about you?
My growing understanding of the impact of colonisation and my delight as Te Reo Maori becomes more and more commonly used.
See yourself in 10 years?
I just hope I'm still alive in 10 years – still reading, going to the theatre, dining out with friends and maybe still running The Women's Bookshop.
What is a project you are looking forward to?
This year's Ladies' Litera-Tea on Sunday 1 November – an annual event in which I line up NZ's best women writers who have a new book out. 260 women in the audience, with a dozen writers on stage and a delectable afternoon tea. Yum!
How would you like to be remembered?
As a stroppy feminist who spent decades promoting women's words, wit and wisdom.
Biggest disappointments?
I'm an optimist, despite the current state of the world, but I guess my biggest disappointment was Trump getting elected again. Unbelievable!
What motivates you?
A really good book that is superbly written and totally absorbing restores my faith in humanity to keep producing beautiful things.
Which item of clothing can't you live without?
In Auckland, my bright multi-coloured raincoat – perfect for wearing when I ride my electric bike to work.
Most treasured possession?
My grandchildren and my bookshop.
Tell us something very few people know about you?
I take my differently-abled adult son to all the Warriors' home games each season.
What superpower do you wish you had?
The power to use my finger tips to inflict pain and, if necessary, death. Like the women in Naomi Alderman's novel The Power, I would use it very selectively on just a few carefully chosen men, one or two of whom are current NZ MPs. I also acknowledge that there are a lot of good, caring men in the world and we stock the best of male authors in The Women's Bookshop.
Greatest weakness/indulgence?
Books, travel, more books, more travel.
(DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) PN
GAEL BALDOCK:
CROOKED PATHS IN TIM-TAM-VILLE
Some years ago, Auckland Transport created a cycleway on the berm in Old Mill Road where earlier footpaths had been narrowed for extra stormwater absorption in those very berms.
Instead of making a widened footpath a shared cycleway, they separated the new bitumen cyclepath from the concrete footpath by a narrow strip of grass. AT didn’t consider the consequences. Residents were now mowing and edging the berms so how could that possibly go wrong? The centre photo tells all. The unused cycleway has become a crooked path that went 'a crooked mile'. It cost more than a 'crooked sixpence' and had no style. To complete the rhyme, the little crooked house couldn’t be built of biscuits because the timtams are lying all over the road.
Whilst the overall berm size has reduced, the work required to mow it and trim the edges has increased. The zebra crossing outside the rarely used Mormon Church even has a slither of grass leading to the separate crossing for pedestrians and cyclists between the coloured braille paths that will cause a trip hazard for the sight impaired, if they haven’t already tripped over the uneven path [right photo]. The zebra crossing outside the daycare is only for pedestrians.
Who will be mowing and edging the berms when AT goes in-house? Hopefully, edging won’t be with poisonous glyphosate. For 10 years, there have been no glyphosate checks, no enforcement and no accountability. New Zealand Food Safety shut down tests after finding illegally high levels of glyphosate residues on food. action.greenpeace.org.nz/ petition/glyphosate-agrichemicals-new-open-letter
Now in the upgrading of the cycle network, in what was supposed to be road resealing, Auckland Transport has removed the 119 hitsticks, road graffiti and half-humps called ‘cushions’ from the four-year trial in Surrey Crescent. Far from these cushions giving residents a restful night’s sleep, some have had to get double glazing to try to cut out the noise.
The central median strip is removed to make space for the cycleway. It sits between the kerb and concrete ‘tim-tams’ separate it from the parked cars. This is the same potential 'blood sandwich' design that was rejected for Garnet Road [Gael Baldock NZ Herald 7 Sept 2018]. These tim-tams have been proven in North Harbour to be dangerous to both vehicles and cyclists. Driveway crossings have been extended in width to further reduce parking with monarch caterpillar look-a-like plastic humps that cause residents to slow to a standstill when entering their properties.
The bus stop in front of Grey Lynn Primary School forms an obstacle course as passengers rising from their seats in the bus shelter are challenged with dismounting the bluestone kerb into oncoming bikes then remounting a concrete tim-
tam before being able to embark on a bus. In its wisdom, AT has made the phantom bus stop, where there is no actual bus route, twice the normal length to ensure that there is almost no parent parking outside the school. Parents will still have to stop in mid-traffic where at least they will be somewhat safe on their tim-tam islands.
Interestingly, there are still four all-day carparks outside the anti-car lobbyists’ residence. Cohaus attempted to subvert Town Planning rules by not providing off street parking. AT has considered these people to be ‘key stakeholders' in the consultation process and has put their parking before a children drop-off zone for parents.
One of the residents of Old Mill Road had a drive removed outside their home without AT contacting them. The driveway had been installed eight years ago when a tree was removed. I do hope these officers who are selective in who in the community they speak with are not transferred over to the new council run in-house transport division.
The other party involved in that new decision making process is the Waitematā Local Board. It has approved these works in
Old Mill Road and Surrey Crescent; consultation on:
1. options of a roundabout or lights at the top of the Bulllock Track that will undo some of this work that is nearing completion;
2. humps and road narrowing in Warnock Street;
3. a cycleway in the last block of Crummer Road leading to Ponsonby Road when there is already a new cycleway in Great North Road (my article for next month);
4. a network of cycleways through the residential streets according to their spin: “The Local Active Modes Plan (LAMP) for West Waitematā, which includes Ponsonby, is a series of initiatives by Auckland Transport (AT) and the Waitematā Local Board designed to improve walking and cycling connections through low-cost 'quick-win' infrastructure. The plan focuses on improving safety and accessibility in areas like Three Lamps and Ponsonby Road.” When in fact, they are actually designed to push through more unwanted cycleways before the Government changes the law and it goes in-house at Auckland Council.
GAEL BALDOCK, community advocate. GaelB@xtra.co.nz
EQUIPOISE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF SKIN AND BEAUTY IN PONSONBY
This April marks a significant milestone for one of Ponsonby’s most established beauty destinations, Equipoise Skin Clinic & Spa, as it celebrates 30 years of caring for the skin and wellbeing of the local community.
Located on Jervois Road, Equipoise has become a familiar and trusted name over the past three decades, a place where clients return not only for treatments, but for the sense of care, consistency and connection that has defined the business since its early days.
Owner Jo Lee, who purchased the business in 2009, has guided Equipoise through years of change within the beauty industry, while staying true to its core philosophy: personalised care and treatments that deliver real results.
“The beauty industry is always evolving, and that’s one of the things I love most about it,” says Jo. “We’ve certainly had our challenges, particularly through covid, but it’s been such a privilege to continue growing both Equipoise and Ponsonby Hair. I’m really excited for what’s ahead.”
Over the years, Equipoise has built a loyal client base, with many clients returning for decades, a reflection of the trust and relationships that sit at the heart of the business. For Jo, this is what makes the milestone particularly meaningful.
“There’s something very special about seeing familiar faces walk through the door. Many of our clients have been part of our journey for a long time, and we’ve loved being part of theirs.”
Interestingly, the story has come full circle. When Equipoise first opened 30 years ago, it offered both skin and hair services. Today, the clinic once again sits alongside hair, now located upstairs from Ponsonby Hair, creating a destination where clients can enjoy both beauty and hair services in one visit.
As the beauty industry has shifted towards more resultsdriven treatments and personalised skin plans, Equipoise has continued to evolve, combining advanced skin technologies with a warm, community focused approach that has remained unchanged.
To celebrate the milestone, Equipoise will host a birthday week from 7–11 April, offering a special thank you to clients. During this time, anyone with an appointment at Equipoise will receive a complimentary 30-minute treatment or upgrade, adding an extra touch of indulgence to their visit. They will also go in the draw to win The Ultimate Equipoise Experience.
After 30 years in business, Equipoise remains a much loved part of the Ponsonby community, a testament to its ability to evolve while staying grounded in what matters most: its people.
Mother and daughter team Freddy Fairclough & Jo Lee
SELF: A NEW CLINIC IN THE HEART OF PONSONBY
Anna Friis and Grace dos Santos are psychologists.
Anna is a Health Psychologist, while Grace is a Counselling Psychologist. The pair have recently opened SELF, their new clinic, located on the corner of Ponsonby Road and Vermont Street.
As they told Ponsonby News: “Ten years ago, I completed a PhD contributing to the growing scientific evidence demonstrating that self-compassion can significantly improve both mental and physical health.
“Over the past decade, my clinical work, research and leadership in the field of mindful self-compassion – teaching in New Zealand and internationally – have continually reinforced what the data shows: when people learn to relate to themselves with compassion rather than criticism, resilience strengthens, emotional regulation improves and meaningful, sustainable change becomes possible.
“What has moved both of us the most is not simply the research, but the lived transformation – senior leaders navigating complexity with greater steadiness, health professionals rediscovering clarity and purpose and individuals learning to meet themselves with courage rather than self-judgement.
"At SELF, our team offers an integrative and deeply compassionate approach to therapy, combining evidencebased psychological treatment with mindfulness and selfcompassion practices.
"Fundamentally, what makes us a bit different in our approach is our belief and lived practice that the future of mental health care lies in clinical excellence delivered with humanity, where compassion is not an adjunct to therapy, but foundational to it.
“Both of us are long-time Ponsonby dwellers, first meeting at university more than 15 years ago. Originally from Brazil, Grace first made a name for herself as a model and then returned to university to go on to become an exceptional therapist and psychologist in Auckland.
“The vision for SELF is hers and, together with my work in the self-compassion field, this partnership has felt like a natural evolution for us both.”
A cross-lease title simply isn’t as good a title as a fee-simple title, because your neighbour is a co-owner of your land, and you need your neighbour’s permission for things that a feesimple owner wouldn’t.
For example, any alterations to the property – even something as simple as changing a window to a French door – could require your neighbour’s consent. If your neighbour refuses to agree and you go ahead, you may be required to take your alterations down (worst case scenario).
Cross-lease properties are often the subject of neighbour disputes, and the legal process involved in resolving any dispute is not easy and can be very expensive. There is historically a value discount applied to cross-lease properties – a fee-simple property is frequently worth more, and is easier to sell.
But there is also a greater benefit than just money – the ability to make your home the way you want it, without needing your neighbour’s consent and without the ongoing costs of needing to update the flats plan on your title after each alteration.
Get total ownership of your home with a fee-simple title. The process to convert can take time. There are various processes involved including checks of your onsite servicing, surveying work, a full subdivision application to council and legal work to obtain your new titles.
Get started today, contact us for a FREE quote. T: 0800 953 273, www.goodtitle.co.nz
PARIS FASHION WEEK WITH ANTHONY BAYER
Anthony Bayer is an award winning, well-respected hairdresser and stylist on Ponsonby Road.
He has recently enjoyed working on the hair styling for some of the shows at last month’s Paris Fashion Week. We asked Anthony to tell us about his experience and background.
Tell us about your experience in Paris?
It was amazing. I did three shows. Jungl Saturn, Authentic Roz, thirdly I also had the opportunity to showcase my own creation at Hair Couture, which is a special show which showcases the talent of all those that worked backstage at Paris Fashion Week. Being the only New Zealander to be part of Fashion Week gave me the incredible opportunity to represent New Zealand on such a large scale in the hair/ beauty/fashion industry. I created a bold avante garde look using different textures, adding dimension with feathers and using the model’s natural hair colour and length.
In terms of Paris Fashion Week as a whole, I just want to give a huge thanks to Jay Marie, who I met at New York Fashion week the previous year. Jay invited me to be a part of her
team and encouraged me to participate in Hair Couture which was produced by The Lab Shows.
Biggest Achievements?
During New York Fashion Week, working with the wellknown model, Callum Harper. Having the hair that I worked on published in Vogue Runway online.
You have won so many awards, tell us about some of them?
Since the salon has been open I have been a finalist for roughly 40 awards, both big and small across different companies, different categories, different platforms and different focuses. My focus at the moment is trying to win New Zealand North Island Hairdresser of the Year. I have been a finalist several times for Overall New Zealand Hairdresser of the year for many different industries and have recently switched to North Island Hairdresser of the Year because the North Island is my home and that feels more fitting.
All Photography:
Harry
Garlick
What's your proudest professional accomplishment?
After being a finalist several times, winning two bronze and one silver, I finally won gold for Wella Trend Vision Hair Colour Artist of the Year. Representing New Zealand overseas at Grand Canaria which had been postponed due to covid but the overall experience was nothing short of amazing.
What inspires you?
Going overseas, working backstage at fashion week, I have been given many amazing opportunities to do various different fashion weeks around the world. New Zealand, Melbourne, London, New York and Paris Fashion Week. All of these experiences being unique and giving me such amazing insight into different fads, different industries and different fashion throughout the world.
ANTHONY BAYER HAIR, 16 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 3577,
How big is the team?
I currently have one full-time employee, one part-time employee and one rent-a-chair stylist in salon. An honourable mention would also be my Mum – she bakes fresh treats every week for the clients and salon.
How would your clients describe you in three words?
Ambitious, passionate and creative.
It seems like 10 years since you first opened on Ponsonby Road?
Yes, I am coming up to 10 years on Ponsonby Road which has been such an amazing experience! We will be celebrating our 10 year anniversary on 7 April and being self employed for the past 11 years.
www.anthonybayerhair.com
LADIES’ DAY AT ELLERSLIE RACECOURSE
There’s a new date worth adding to your social calendar this season – Ladies’ Day at Ellerslie Racecourse, a stylish midweek escape that blends fashion, food and racing with a meaningful purpose.
At the heart of the event is the Ladies’ Lunch Pink Ribbon Fundraiser, supporting the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. It’s a day designed to be enjoyed with friends. Think beautifully curated dining from Ellerslie’s executive chef Paul Barrett, flowing Champagne, live entertainment and the electric atmosphere of a race day – all while contributing to a cause that touches so many New Zealanders.
More than just a day out, Ladies’ Lunch is about coming together to make a difference. A portion of every ticket sold is donated directly to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, helping fund vital research, education and early detection programmes. Guests will also have opportunities throughout the day to give back, from on-the-day fundraising moments to a curated silent auction.
Fashion plays a starring role, with racegoers encouraged to dress to impress and embrace the glamour of the occasion. It’s the perfect excuse to gather your girlfriends, celebrate in style and be part of something a little special.
Set against the backdrop of live racing and premium hospitality, Ladies’ Day offers a fresh take on the traditional charity event – one that feels vibrant, social and genuinely enjoyable.
As the inaugural event of its kind at Ellerslie, it’s set to become a standout on Auckland’s event calendar and one you’ll want to be part of from the very beginning.
Can’t make Ladies’ Day? The calendar at Ellerslie Racecourse is packed with standout events that offer something for every kind of racegoer from relaxed, family-friendly days to high energy, fashion-forward occasions.
Across the season, Ellerslie comes alive with a variety of themed race days and major events that each bring their own unique atmosphere. Easter Raceday is a firm favourite for those looking for a more laid-back outing, often paired with long-weekend plans and a social, easy-going vibe. Meanwhile, Irish Day injects a burst of colour and energy into the course, with music, celebration and a lively crowd that embraces the spirit of the occasion.
For those who love the big moments, Melbourne Cup Day at Ellerslie delivers all the excitement of the 'race that stops a nation’, combined with local flair, fashion and festivities closer to home. It’s one of the most popular social dates of the year and always draws a vibrant, well-dressed crowd.
At the premium end of the calendar, the iconic TAB Karaka Millions and Champions Day showcase the very best of New Zealand racing. These are the headline events where toptier racing meets elevated hospitality, entertainment and an electric on-course atmosphere.
What ties the Ellerslie calendar together is its ability to offer more than just racing. Each event is thoughtfully designed to create a full-day experience, whether that’s by enjoying the premium precincts such as the Moët Lounge, live entertainment, fashion or simply the chance to gather with friends.
So, if Ladies’ Day isn’t on your schedule this year, there are plenty of other opportunities to experience everything Ellerslie has to offer and every reason to make race day a regular fixture on your social calendar.
www.ellerslie.co.nz
KEN RING: WEATHER BY THE MOON AUCKLAND WEATHER DIARY, APRIL 2026
March is drier than the rain average, with above average sunshine and cooler temperatures.
April may deliver less than the rain average, but with average sunshine and above-average temperatures. The first week is the driest with no rain expected and best sunshine. The middle two weeks are changeable, and the last week may bring the most rain, least sunshine and the lowest air pressures. The barometer may average 1017mbs. The best days for weekend activities are 4th/5th.
For fishermen, the kingtide is on the 17th with a lesser king tide on the 3rd. The best fishing bite times in the east may be around dusk times of 1st-3rd, 16th-18th, and 30th. Bite
chances are also good around lunchtimes of 9th-11th and 23rd-25th.
For gardeners, planting is best on 1st, and 23rd-30th (waxing moon ascending); and pruning is best 10th-18th, (waning moon descending). For preserving and longer shelf-life, harvest crops or flowers around the neap tides of the 11th and 26th.
Allow 24-hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING) PN For future weather for any date, and the 2026 NZ Weather Almanacs, see www.predictweather.com
Opinions expressed in Ponsonby News are not always the opinion of Alchemy Media Limited & Ponsonby News.
PONSONBY NEWS ONLINE...
In case you missed the news you will be aware that we are now going fully online. I love print and have been in the magazine business since 1990, I will miss those days. Thank you to all the locals who supported our Give a Little campaign. Sadly, we didn’t quite reach our target. It’s been a tough old year and going fully online will bring us more readers, which in turn gives our loyal advertisers more bang for their buck. You can also comment on the newsfeed stories. And remember we love letters to the editor. (MARTIN LEACH)
TWENTY YEARS OF MOVING MADE EASY®
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Since 2006, we’ve been using our unparalleled expertise and experience to provide a uniquely bespoke service tailored around the specific wants and needs of each individual client. Our goal when we started was to help people and we are proudly still doing so 20 years later!
Home sale preparation is pivotal to securing a favourable sale in a fluctuating and competitive housing market, and we’ve seen this trend grow over the last 20 years. It can be hard for people to see the steps they could take to present their home in the most favourable way for potential purchasers.
Using our in-depth knowledge, we identify and outline options for clients and then undertake the work needed to help them secure a positive settlement. This is hugely beneficial not only for those relocating but also for clients' families who might have very little time and greatly appreciated by those looking after an estate closure.
Given that each project is individually tailored to the specific client’s needs, it does mean that no two projects are the same and this is something we really enjoy. We’ve had projects that involved managing the full renovation of a client’s home, to
packing and moving an extensive collection of military miniature figures and memorabilia, to the specialist relocation of large wall-art sculptures and re-installation in the new home.
It really is a case of if the client wants it or needs it, we can do it. We use our extensive range of expertise (including design, our team and our contacts) to support any size of project from reorganising displays of antique snuff boxes to preparing a large eight-bedroom house for sale and relocating the belongings to three different locations, including overseas. It really is a case of Moving Made Easy… plus so much more!
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An independent family owned business operating since 2006.
WHEN WORDS GO WRONG
Aside from debt recovery, defamation claims are among the more common civil claims in New Zealand.
But what is defamation and how can I defend such a claim?
‘Defamation' is generally a statement which tends to lower someone’s reputation in the eyes of ordinary, reasonable thinking members of society.
If I post in the Ponsonby Grapevine group on Facebook, “that Thai place next to the coffee place has terrible kitchen hygiene,” I may have defamed that Thai restaurant. People who read the comment may be less likely to go there and the restaurant may lose business as a result.
The owner could send me a letter alleging defamation. He says he will sue me unless I pay him $5000 in damages and publish an apology. What do I do? It’s never a good idea to ignore a legal letter, so the two practical options are to defend or settle.
If I want to settle, I could agree to pay the $5000 and publish an apology in the Ponsonby Grapevine.
But maybe I’m stubborn and believe I was justified in saying what I said. I tell the owner that I’m not caving and he files a claim in the District Court. What happens then?
The main defences to defamation may seem straightforward in principle, but their application can be tricky.
Truth
I could say: “It’s true! They do have bad kitchen hygiene!” but then it’s my job to prove it. I could get a copy of the restaurant’s food grade certificate from the council (fingers crossed it’s a D or an E).
Opinion
I could say: “It’s my honest opinion!” but if my statement looks like a statement of fact instead of an opinion, saying “It’s my opinion” won’t cut it.
If I said: “There was a cockroach in my cashew nut noodles! That Thai place next to the coffee place has terrible kitchen hygiene,” then I should be okay, provided I can prove that there was a cockroach in my noodles. If I can’t, I’m in hot oil.
Qualified privilege
I could say: “I had good reason to say it, people needed to
Thomas Newman, Solicitor
know so they don’t get sick!” Now I’m in a grey area. I might have the defence of 'qualified privilege'.
This is a defence for statements that can’t be proven true, provided the statement-maker made the statement in good faith, had a duty to disclose the information and the receiver/s had a corresponding interest in receiving it.
If I had just sent an email about the cockroach to the council, I’m probably okay because we’re supposed to share this sort of information with responsible authorities. Telling 10,000odd members of a Facebook group is riskier. I might still have a defence, but I would need to get a good lawyer.
Other defences I may have some other defences.
Does the restaurant already have a bad reputation? Maybe I only said it to a handful of people, so there’s only been minor harm. Or imagine my Facebook post was more casual: “I don’t like the energy there,” in which case a court case is a disproportionate response to whatever reputational harm I may have caused.
Defamation cases often turn on context, wording, audience and evidence. What looks like a casual social media comment can potentially create significant risk. Equally, a claim that appears defamatory at first glance may be defensible once the facts are properly examined.
Thomas Newman, Solicitor E: thomas.newman@swlegal.co.nz
STEINDLE WILLIAMS LEGAL, Level 2, Suite 2.1, 18 Sale Street, T: 09 361 5563, www.swlegal.co.nz
At SBA Ponsonby we’re modern where it matters, but old school where it matters to you. We’re here to help, on the phone or in-person. No bots or form filling, just great accounting help and advice.
Embrace the change of season, keep your food journey going and plant crops for the winter months.
Many of us plan, plant and nurture our spring and summer gardens every year relatively confidently, but maybe struggle a little with our autumn into winter crops.
With Auckland’s subtropical climate and quality soil, autumn is actually a great time to grow. At Kelmarna we are able to keep our market gardens in production all year round. With that in mind, we have been busy preparing for our first Autumn Seedling Sale on 11 April, 9.30am – 12.30pm.
Not only do we have a fantastic array of seedlings and bulbs for sale, we will also be sharing our knowledge and expertise in growing some of the crops that work well over the cooler months. Greens like perpetual spinach, parsley and sprouting broccoli and many other nutritious veggies are easy to grow, even in a small garden. If planted now they could provide a regular harvest to keep you and your whānau fed for the winter.
As well as selling individual seedlings, we’ll again be curating a mixed box of winter crops with our favourite selections for an easy start. Pre order your seedling box now, then collect anytime during Kelmarna Farm operating hours between Saturday, 11 April and Saturday, 18 April.
Small Box – $25 / 6 varieties
Perfect for beginner gardeners and/or those with small gardens or just a patio with some pots. These boxes will include the likes of: perpetual spinach, mizuna, spring onions, parsley, lettuce and coriander.
Large Box – $50 / 12 varieties
Great for larger gardens and/or experienced gardeners, and will include the likes of: perpetual spinach, mizuna, spring onions, parsley, lettuce and coriander, basil, broccoli, cornflower, rocket, globe artichoke, tatsoi.
Tips for autumn planting:
It’s important to get things in the ground before it gets too cold, so earlier in autumn is better. Plants are then well established in size before sunshine hours reduce more.
· Don’t be afraid to clear summer crops as they near their end. The payoff for getting winter veggies established early will be worth it.
· Now is also a good time for direct sowing with things like carrot, radish and salad greens such as mizuna. Radishes especially are a great, quick harvest crop. Less slug pressure now so direct sowings come up easier. Just keep them watered regularly.
To make things easier and take the guesswork out of getting started, we’ve also created a simple gardening guide available at the seedling sale (and downloadable from our website). You can also add on an order of our very special Soil Factory compost. Good soil is where it all begins, and our Soil Factory compost is dark, wormy and alive with fungi, microbes and organic matter – everything new seedlings need to get a strong start. Choose between a 10L or 30L size bag.
More than a sale and learning space, the morning will be a full-on garden party with a bake sale, Kōkako coffee, delicious goodies from the Lophie Project, kids’ activities, live music and Kelmarna Community Farm magic.
So, bring the kids, grab a coffee, take home something growing!
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE THIS SCHOOL HOLS WITH ECOFEST
Auckland’s sustainability festival EcoFest kicked off on 22 March and runs right through the school holidays this year.
This is a festival that takes place all over the region for one month and, as the online programme shows, central and west Auckland is chock-a-block with workshops, markets and activities for all ages and stages.
Local favourite Freida Margolis is giving its monthly Saturday market a fresh eco focus, including sustainable offerings from friendly local sellers, makers and bakers. Not far away, local libraries are putting on arty events for all ages – from ‘Biology in a Box’ at Grey Lynn, to ‘Art Can Be Everywhere’ in Auckland’s central library. A short walk away at The Ellen Melville Centre, they’re offering a bevy of activities each week and, nearer the water, there are adult bike riding classes and bike repair classes at Queen’s Wharf.
Heading in the other direction to Parnell, why not look at our museum’s 'Swimming with Sharks' exhibition or drop into Newmarket’s Highwick House and learn about their new waste-free weddings, ‘EcoWed’.
In Westmere, Florence Saves Clothes is having a fourday Open Studio and showcasing a new ‘Old Clothes to Couture’ collection, which also includes ideas to transform long-forgotten wedding dresses. In neighbouring Pt Chev there’s a comprehensive waste-wise workshop at the new library and a $5 fill a bag sale at Waiōrea Community Recycling Centre – the perfect place to refresh your wardrobe while doing good for the environment.
These are just a small sample of events that are often free or low cost, usually only require a couple of hours to experience and open one’s eyes to new sustainable horizons. This is a
central goal of EcoFest, which was formed 13 years ago in West Auckland. EcoMatters Environment Trust founded it, were joined two years later by Kaipātiki Project and, three years ago, the Beautification Trust and Waiheke Resources Trust joined the team.
“What delivering this festival has taught us, is that even just attending one event can create a positive, impactful connection between each other and the environment,” says EcoMatters CEO, Carla Gee. “Given the challenges happening in Aotearoa and in the rest of the world right now, we know that it’s more important than ever to provide fun, light-hearted ways to sample sustainability together.”
www.ecofest.org.nz
DEPUTY MAYOR:
DESLEY SIMPSON
Recently, I officiated at the celebration to mark the completion of the heritage section of the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.
It reminded me why moments like this matter so much to our city. The March event wasn’t just the completion of a project, it was our city taking a breath, honouring its past, celebrating its creativity and reaffirming the cultural heartbeat that makes this place unlike anywhere else.
Anyone who knows me, knows how passionate I am about arts, culture and heritage. I’ve said it often – these societal pillars are not 'nice to haves'. They underpin who we are, they reflect the huge diversity of our city and create vibrancy, atmosphere and a sense of place. They help build a city where people want to be, where they feel inspired and connected.
That’s why when I stood to acknowledge the completion of this work, alongside fellow elected members, iwi partners, the gallery’s leadership, architects, contractors, donors and so many from our cultural community, it truly felt incredibly special. It was a reminder that this gallery belongs to all of us. For generations it has shaped Auckland’s identity, and it continues to be one of our most treasured public spaces.
Inside its walls live the country’s most significant public art collections – gifts from Sir George Grey, James Mackelvie, the Chartwell Trust, the Robertson family, Dame Jenny Gibbs and many others whose generosity has enriched our city. The gallery is home to the greats of Aotearoa’s art, to Māori and Pacific artists whose work continues to shape our cultural story and to international works that broaden our horizons. Every year, half a million people walk through its doors – students, families, researchers, visitors – each finding something that speaks to them.
Our most beloved places need care. And so began the restoration of the gallery’s 139- year-old heritage wing in 2021, guided by the beautiful kaupapa Kia Whakahou, Kia Whakaora – to restore, to heal. That is exactly what has been done.
From the early design stages through to the final touches this year, the team, led by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, approached every detail with expertise, creativity and heart. They delivered the project under budget, kept the gallery open throughout and found clever ways to minimise disruption, like using roof scaffolding to complete facade and lighting work at the same time.
I had the privilege of climbing that scaffolding myself. Seeing the intricate detailing of the building up close was extraordinary. You notice things you simply can’t from the ground – the craftsmanship, the textures, the stories etched into every surface. It’s really reinforced for me why protecting our heritage matters. These buildings are not just structures, they are storytellers.
There were wonderful discoveries along the way – original frieze text revealed beneath layers of time, heritage photographs guiding the reinstatement of lost features and the return of the roof ventilation towers – adapted for modern use but faithful to the building’s history. Even the new slate came from the same Welsh quarry used in 1887. That level of care speaks volumes.
It was during the celebration that I articulated an ambition: I want to see Auckland become the greatest cultural city in the Southern Hemisphere. That this was met with whoops and applause told me this ambition isn’t mine alone, it’s shared and it’s possible.
Now that the work is complete, I want to encourage everyone, whether you’re a regular visitor, haven’t been in years or have never been at all, to go and experience the gallery in all its renewed, yet beautifully old glory. Wander through the heritage wing, look up at the restored details, let the art and the building speak to you.
And, once again, I want to thank everyone involved. Their dedication ensures that this magnificent building will continue to welcome and uplift Aucklanders for generations to come. And for me, it reaffirms something I’ve always believed –when we invest in arts and culture, we invest in the soul of our city. PN
DESLEY SIMPSON, Deputy Mayor of Auckland www.desleysimpson.co.nz
Vicki Salmon, chair of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Zara Stanhope, Director Art Gallery & Desley Simpson.
WAYNE BROWN:
MAYOR OF AUCKLAND
For too long, Auckland has been a collection of suburbs connected by congestion.
We’ve treated our inner city gems like Ponsonby as museums rather than the beating heart of a growing metropolis. That needs to change.
I live in an apartment in Ponsonby. It’s a mix of people –expensive units, cheaper ones, young families, professionals and old buggers like me. You see the same faces in the lift and people keep an eye out for each other. That’s what makes a real city work. It’s also why the debate about housing intensification matters.
At a recent council meeting, we agreed on the principles that will guide Plan Change 120 and how Auckland meets the Government’s housing targets.
There’s been plenty of noise about this, some of it fuelled by misinformation and political point scoring, but the basics are straightforward. We need intensification in the right places –along major transport routes, where we’ve already invested in infrastructure, and away from flood plains.
Also, Auckland should be shaping Auckland’s growth, not a cabinet in Wellington. Ponsonby is exactly the kind of place where this makes sense. It’s close to the city, well serviced and about to benefit even more from the City Rail Link. Yes, that project cost too much and took too long, but we need to make the most of it. The new Karanga-a-hāpe station will make this part of Auckland far more accessible.
This suburb has always evolved. From early villas and cottages, to Māori and Pacific families bringing new life into the area, through to the cafes, restaurants and apartments that define Ponsonby today. That mix of people, housing and activity is its strength.
Cities around the world work best when people live close to where they work, study and socialise. Without new housing, many of our inner city suburbs risk slowly turning into giant retirement villages. Young families will simply look elsewhere further out in Auckland or, worse still, across the Tasman.
We already see too many young Aucklanders heading overseas. We like to call it an OE, but the reality is that many of them aren’t coming back.
A city that sprawls forever isn’t really a city at all. It’s just one big soulless suburb with longer and longer commutes.
Done properly, growth doesn’t destroy character, it strengthens it. More people means more customers for local businesses, more life on the streets, and safer, more vibrant communities.
Projects like Te Rimutahi on Ponsonby Road show we can do this in a way that respects the past while building for the future. But a growing suburb also has to function properly. That means safer streets, tackling retail crime and getting the basics right on transport and parking so people can actually live, work and shop here.
Auckland is growing up and Ponsonby is currently proving that we can respect our past while building upward.
We can have both. By finishing what we’ve started – from the Leys Institute restoration to the new developments at Three Lamps – we aren't just fixing a suburb, we are building a city that finally looks and functions like a city.
This summer’s Western Springs Stadium concert schedule of back-to-back record-breaking shows boosted economic activity by $10 million in the Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland region.
Laneway Festival on 5 February was the biggest New Zealand edition of the festival ever, with a crowd of more than 36,000 enjoying a line-up filled with international superstars, local heroes and upcoming favourites.
Auckland was the only New Zealand stop for the touring festival, making it a magnet for music lovers from all over Aotearoa and beyond. Almost half of all attendees travelled from outside Tāmaki Makaurau, generating an estimated 49,680 visitor nights with visitors spending an average of $470 during their stay.
Laneway was held on the Thursday before Waitangi Day for the first time. Visitors arrived for the all day festival but stayed for the weekend, with an average stay of 2.83 nights each.
November’s sellout Rufus Du Sol show, delivered by Live Nation, was the biggest concert ever on The Outer Fields at Western Springs, with huge demand seeing more than 25,000 tickets sold.
The Rufus Du Sol concert also proved to be a major attraction to the region, with 36 per cent of ticket buyers travelling from
outside of Auckland. This delivered an estimated 18,689 visitor nights, with each visitor spending an average of $552 during their stay.
Nick Hill, Chief Executive at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says the record-breaking summer season highlights the importance of the historic Western Springs Stadium to the region.
“This summer shows what concerts held at Western Springs Stadium deliver for Tāmaki Makaurau. Hosting globally recognised artists and major festivals drives real economic benefit for our region, supports local jobs and businesses and strengthens Auckland’s reputation as a premier live music destination. The economic impact is significant, but so too is the cultural energy these events create for our communities.
“When two major events can generate this level of activity, it highlights the opportunity in a more consistent summer programme. With the right infrastructure, Western Springs can complement Auckland’s wider stadium network to deliver even greater economic and cultural benefit for our region,” says Nick Hill.
Jessie Parker, Festival Director of Laneway Festival is proud of the continued growth of the festival in New Zealand.
“Laneway 2026 was our biggest year yet in Aotearoa. After more than a decade of the festival in New Zealand, it’s incredible to see it continue to grow as a staple of the summer live music calendar. Western Springs provided the perfect setting for a huge night of music led by Chappell Roan and we’re already excited to return in 2027,” says Jessie Parker.
Mark Kneebone, Managing Director of Live Nation, says Auckland continues to be a key touring destination for international artists.
“These sellout results demonstrate the appetite for world-class live music in this market, and we look forward to bringing more major acts to the region in summers to come,” says Mark Kneebone.
A headline show from American performer Jelly Roll was set to open the summer event season at Western Springs on 8 November but was cancelled due to artist illness, with thousands of tickets already sold – highlighting strong international demand for an outdoor venue of this style and scale in Tāmaki Makaurau.
The impressive summer return from just two concerts demonstrates the important role Western Springs Stadium plays as a regional facility for sports, festivals, concerts and other events and its potential for development.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) has been considering the long-term future of Western Springs Stadium, with an open expression of interest (EOI) process in 2024 followed by public consultation in 2025.
TAU recently recommended that Auckland Council’s Governing Body approve a development of the 'Western Springs Bowl' concept, first proposed as part of the EOI. That decision is set to be made at the end of this month.
The Western Springs Bowl concept proposes to enhance the historic stadium through the installation of semi-permanent concert staging, alongside an upgraded boutique sports configuration. Redevelopment would make the venue a more cost-effective proposition for event promoters, attracting increased event content.
BY THE NUMBERS :
Laneway Festival, 5 February 2026 *
36,016 unique event attendees/participants
17,567 visitors to Auckland including:
16,501 domestic visitors
· 1066 international visitors
· 49,680 visitor nights with an average of 2.83 nights per visitor
$8,256,296 million of visitor expenditure at an average of $470 per visitor
$5,953,143 million estimated net benefit to Auckland, calculated as the gross benefit
Rufus Du Sol, 29 November 2025**
25,451 unique event attendees/participants
9188 visitors to Auckland including:
8257 domestic visitors
931 international visitors
18,689 visitor nights with an average of 2.03 nights per visitor
$5,074,755 million visitor expenditure at an average of $552 per visitor
· $3,954,077 million estimated net benefit to Auckland, calculated as the gross benefit less the gross cost
*Fresh Info, Post-event evaluation of 2026 Auckland Laneway Festival, March 2026
**Fresh Info, Post-event evaluation of Rufus Du Sol, February 2026
Confirmed upcoming events at Western Springs Stadium Foo Fighters, 22 January 2027
PROGRESS ON LEYS LIBRARY RESTORATION
Council staff are making good progress on the plans for the Leys Library and Gymnasium restoration and seismic strengthening.
There have been temporary works carried out on the roof, along with asbestos removal and preparation works for the main construction.
Friends of Leys Institute and St Marys Bay Association representatives and Pippa Leys from the Leys family, had a recent tour through the buildings with council and library staff. We were shown through the empty spaces and given an indication of the changes proposed for the buildings.
Project managers Reza Jafazadeh and John Cheah outlined the timetable for the project. Resource consent has been obtained and the building consent is imminent. The tenders for construction will go out in July with a view to having works start in September. Detailed building plans are nearly finalised.
Project completion and reopening of the library is scheduled for 2028.
We hope that there are no hiccups before we see work actually starting on our precious heritage buildings.
HELEN GEARY, Friends of Leys Institute Co-ordinator helen@geary.nz, M: 021 208 7490
ANNUAL CLAY WORKS POTTERS’ MARKET COMING SOON
In June 2026, St Columba's weekly community lunch will have been running for nine years – a real testament to the dedicated volunteers who cook week in, week out for a community of (currently) 60-70 regular attendees, for 43 weeks of the year.
And it is St Columba's Clay Works Potters' Market that supports this and other community work. From small beginnings in 2015, Clay Works has evolved to be the largest pottery display and sale in Aotearoa New Zealand – a destination event in Auckland's arts calendar. Potters are invited from Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond, such as (this year) from the Coromandel, Great Barrier Island and Opotiki.
On 8 and 9 May, the St Columba Church hall will be buzzing with pottery lovers and potters eager to see this year's showcase of well-known and emerging potters' work. The pottery is diverse by every measure and there will be something for everyone.
With Mothers Day falling the day after Clay Works ends, it is the perfect opportunity to find a special gift for the mums in your life. Come and see for yourself, on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May, 10am - 4pm.
St Columba's, 92 Surrey Crescent, Grey Lynn. Nau mai haere mai. All welcome.
Enquiries: Liz M: 021 1517 087
U3A PONSONBY MARCH
'A Nanny Talk' and 'You Are What You Eat'
The membership of U3A Ponsonby enjoyed a charming Nanny Talk from our U3A member Diana Kells who illustrated her presentation with references to the impact that Benjamin Spock’s books had made during the 1960s. Diana then reacquainted U3A members with memories of our screenrelated favourite nannies including Julie Andrews and Nanny McPhee before closing with a strong recommendation for U3A grandparents to consider visiting and supporting the Science Playroom in Henderson.
The main speaker was Professor Rod Jackson of the University of Auckland who is a vascular disease epidemiologist in the School of Population Health. His presentation was entitled: 'You are what you eat and it’s never too late to change'. Professor Jackson began with the statement that the world’s major issues regarding health are health inequity and global warming. He then addressed an aspect of his own research which drew from food and health statistics in New Zealand with a breakdown of data since the 1950s which were of particular interest to the aging audience of U3A.
His question to the audience was “who believes that death from coronary heart disease has been increasing or decreasing since 1967?”
A show of hands revealed that many of the audience considered there were now more deaths than in 1967; a roughly equal number believed there were fewer deaths; while a third group thought the death rates were similar. Professor Jackson then produced the statistical data which demonstrated that death from coronary heart disease was currently (2020) only about 10 percent of 1967 deaths. Deaths from coronary heart disease have fallen by almost 90% in just over 50 years. Professor Jackson then broke down the data for those in the 35 to 74 age group and for the 75 to 84 age group.
The data showed that in 1967 (when coronary deaths peaked in New Zealand), the 35 to 74 age group had over 800 male deaths per 100,000 population and just over 300 female deaths. In the 75 to 84 age group, male deaths decreased from just under 4000 per 100,000 population in 1967 to about 800 in 2020 and female deaths dropping from about 2500 in 1967 to less than 500 persons in 2020. Professor Jackson then identified the changes in eating habits that had impacted these reductions in heart disease. The widespread adoption of refrigerators after 1950 had a very positive influence through the reduced use of salt to preserve meat, leading to a reduction in blood pressure. There was also a
transition in the 1960s from red meats (heavy in saturated fats) to poultry which is much lower in saturated fats. The reduction in smoking was another key issue. Butter consumption also reduced after 1965 when subsidies were removed. It fell even further in the 1970s when margarine was legalised for sale in New Zealand.
Attention was then directed to the fact that although New Zealanders now have higher levels of obesity due to our eating larger meals (than 50 years ago), the incidence of heart disease continues to decrease. Professor Jackson puts this down to a combination of factors but it is mainly due to New Zealanders eating healthier foods. Another likely cause of obesity is the change from wholefoods to ultra-processed foods which are more energy dense.
In closing, U3A members were encouraged to consider replacing butter with margarine, using vegetable oils rather than butter or lard for frying and roasting, low sodium salt rather than standard salt and low fat milk rather than full cream milk. Professor Jackson also emphasised that it is never too late to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by changing your diet.
NEXT MEETING: Friday, 10 April
SPEAKER: Rebecca Macfie, Journalist and Author
VENUE: Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Reserve, Salisbury Street, Herne Bay
It’s hard to believe we are already in April and it’s the end of the first school term. If you are looking for something to entertain tamariki over the holiday break, we can help. For this newsletter we focus on kids’ things: our school holiday programme and a suggestion to help reluctant readers.
Here are our three free kids’ events:
SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMME
Friday 10 April 2pm – 5pm Drop in
BOOKMARKS AND BADGES
Tamariki can make personalised bookmarks and badge. The inspiration for the badges and bookmarks could be anything – a favourite book quote, character or maybe something else. On arrival, kids will receive a little individual B & B kit to start the creative ball rolling.
Monday 13 April
2.30pm - 4.30pm Drop In
BOOK DETECTIVE
Young Digital Sleuths aided by our IPads can follow the clues (QR codes) around the library to help solve the case of the mysterious disappearing books.
Please register for this event, as we have limited places. Email leysinstitutelibraryponsonby@aklc.govt.nz
Friday 17 April
2pm – 5pm
POKÉMON PARTY
We have several Pokémon themed events:
A Pokémon trivia quiz
Pokémon team badge making
Making a Pokémon ball
Once again, please register for this event using the above email address.
You and your family are welcome to hang out in the library. We have Lego and games for fun family times.
RELUCTANT READERS
It’s good to keep tamariki reading throughout the holidays – a lapse in reading can result in a drop in literacy skills. But sometimes the hardest thing is getting kids interested in books. If this is the case, nonfiction books can be a great option. Non-fiction is an excellent tool for reluctant readers because it offers interesting information in small pieces. Nonfiction is often beautifully illustrated, accessible and allows kids to choose topics they are genuinely interested in – dogs, space, nature, whatever. And given the high level of visual engagement, nonfiction can also be an alternative to graphics. There are many wonderful nonfiction books to choose and if you are not sure what to look for, you are welcome to come in for some suggestions.
We hope to see you and your tamariki or mokopuna over the holiday break. Ka kite.
LEYS INSTITUTE LITTLE LIBRARY, 14 Jervois Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz leysinstitutelibraryponsonby@aklc.govt.nz
MIKE LEE:
TOWARDS A DEBACLE?
Plan Change 120 gets massive push-back from Aucklanders as we farewell Bernard Orsman.
Councillors and the public at the recent Policy & Planning Committee were at last given some, albeit carefully curated, information about what is going on with Plan Change 120 to which 10,500-plus Aucklanders lodged submissions despite the rushed pre-Christmas deadline insisted on by the council.
Before I start on that, I would like to acknowledge the retirement of NZ Herald senior journalist Bernard Orsman. As it happens, the 10 March meeting which he covered was his last. Bernard has been reporting for the ‘Herald’ since 1990 – two years’ longer than I have been in Auckland politics –a long time indeed. It was Bernard who wrote my political obituary after the 2019 elections, a gracious and generous tribute in the Weekend Herald. It is with some sadness that due to the strange turns of fate and politics it is now he who is the one leaving and I the one staying, and therefore it is my turn to pay tribute to him. Bernard, a long-term Grey Lynn resident, has covered local government in Auckland for the past three decades. A true professional, Bernard’s carefully researched and crisply written exposės, eg, ‘Super Rich and the Super City – the companies pocketing $10b of ratepayers’ money’ and ‘Auckland Council spends $190 million on global accountants and big law firms in five years’ have shone a light in some of the darkest corners of the socalled ‘Super City’.
In the best traditions of public affairs journalism, Bernard’s work has shown him to be a true friend of Auckland and the people of Auckland. I wish him and his wife Carolyn a happy, well-deserved retirement. But he will be missed.
The committee meeting was called to update councillors on the PC 120 process particularly in light of the Government’s response to the widespread backlash from Aucklanders, not the least from this ward. The mandatory two million extra dwellings has been dialled back to 1.6 million – but that still assumes some five million more people than Auckland’s current population, with no consideration for infrastructure.
While there is strong public consensus for intensifying around train and rapid transit bus stations, there is overwhelming opposition to high-rise towers, especially in special character areas. Council planners, while willing to back off their plans in
the suburbs, are clearly signalling a determination to impose high-rise towers within a 10km circle around the inner city. Making it obvious that the principal difference between PC 120 and its predecessors is to open up the inner suburbs for high-rise luxury apartments, especially in locations with views over the Waitematā Harbour.
One suspects the property interests who lobbied so hard to have the Port of Auckland moved out of Auckland (to somewhere – anywhere), in order to make way for highrise development – something Mayor Brown was pushing to anyone who would listen when he was first elected – have shifted their focus from the waterfront to the northern slopes, notably the special character areas of St Marys Bay and Parnell.
Despite putting the blame on the Government, and hapless (self-appointed) fall guy Minister Bishop, it is interesting how defensive Wayne Brown appears to be about this aspect of PC 120. During the meeting, he made a needless jibe at opposition coming from ‘Parnell Nimbies’ and pointedly about the opposition of ‘a candidate trying to get re-elected’. I wasn’t going to let him get away with that. So, after I took the call, I asked the Mayor whether in his reference to a ‘candidate trying to get re-elected’ he was referring to the candidate who was given $617,000 in election donations, including from property development related corporates, eg, Tramco ($50,000), CP Group ($25,000), Precinct Properties ($10,000), Bayleys Real Estate ($10,000) and the Park Hyatt Hotel $18,400. I also made the point that far from being a ward of ‘nimbies’, Waitematā is already by far the most intensified location in the Auckland region.
Breaking News: As ‘Ponsonby News’ goes to deadline, private AI research commissioned by Cr Ken Turner analysing the 10,500 public submissions in ways council planners claimed was too difficult, has revealed remarkable information – notably the sheer scale of public opposition, with overall 64.8% opposed, 28.9% requesting amendments and only 5.8% in support. Sadly, Bernard Orsman won’t be around to cover what is starting to look like a council-made debacle. (MIKE LEE) PN
www.mikelee.co.nz
Saying goodbye to Bernard, Cr Chris Fletcher, Bernard Orsman & Mike Lee after Bernard’s Orsman’s final council meeting
TE RIMUTAHI UPDATE
Te Rimutahi will be one year old in May.
This time last year, we were celebrating the generous gifting of the name Te Rimutahi by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. The name, which is now proudly showcased above the canopy roof line, is in the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei designed font, which holds significant mana and identity.
Also, last April, the Cassidy Construction team completed the last of the physical works for the civic space in preparation for the official opening on 17 May, 2025.
Since the opening, some of the most frequently asked questions from visitors to Te Rimutahi relate to the gardens and their plantings. The plantings were chosen based on being aesthetic, robust and low maintenance. The Planting Schedule was designed by Landscape Architect Alexander Luiten BFA (Hons), BLA (Hons) of Landscape and Ecology* for LandLAB, the Landscape Architectural Studio that designed the awardwinning Te Rimutahi**.
Landscape and Ecology is a design-focused practice led by Alex that develops and creates long term, resilient landscape responses that are adaptive to our changing climate. Their work at Te Rimutahi is truly impressive and delights people through the restrained colour palette, the mass plantings, the movement, form and structure. As the gardens further establish, the green-walls will grow to be a lush cloak that will envelope the northern walls, while creating a living shade canopy over the retained structural elements of the buildings.
APRIL 2026
Te Rimutahi planting schedule: www.254ponsonbyrd.org.nz/uncategorized/te-rimutahiplanting-schedule/
Te Rimutahi is an urban oasis that is good for the people, good for the environment,and good for Tāmaki Makaurau. This beautiful civic space is available for all the residents, visitors and local businesses to access, enjoy and delight in. BRAVO!
For more information or to contact the Friends of Te Rimutahi (formerly the CLDG), see our website 254ponsonbyrd.org. nz Instagram te_rimutahi_ Facebook Te Rimutahi or 254 Ponsonby Road. (JENNIFER WARD) PN * www.landscapeandecology.com/studio ** www.landlab.studio/work/te-rimutahi
TE RIMUTAHI AWARDS: Designers Institute of New Zealand (DINZ) BEST Awards ‘GOLD’ (2025)
NZILA Award of Excellence in Unbuilt Visionary (2019)
World Architecture News (WAN) Future Projects: Civic Award Winner (2018)
World Architecture Festival (WAF) Civic Future Project Award Finalist (2018)
photography:
Sam Gould
HELEN WHITE, MP FOR MT ALBERT: CAN WE PUT A PRICE ON COMMUNITY?
I read and listen a lot.
Both to relax when I walk and to keep myself in the loop with thought leaders and cultural analysts who provide great perspective for me when developing strategies, proposals and policies for the complex array of issues facing us today.
Recently, after re-reading Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari, my thoughts turned to the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what we value. Harari makes the point that much of human society is built on shared beliefs, on things that we agree matter, even if they’re not strictly tangible.
That idea stayed with me and I began to wonder how it plays out here in Auckland. Whether priority is given to the lives we share as part of the myriad and diverse communities that make up the city with their enriching interconnectedness, or to property values and development potential. A modest piece of land in Pt Chevalier captures that dichotomy perfectly and has become a real-world test of what we value as a society. For nearly a century, it’s been treated not as something to maximise, but as a lived-in space, a home to bowling, tennis and croquet clubs, gardens and the everyday activities of people spending time together.
This hugely valuable community space is now at the centre of a legal dispute. An Anglican charitable trust has elected to pursue costly litigation over this land that has long served the public good and the situation invites us to confront the
uncomfortable truth that we have become much too adept at translating everything into financial terms, even those things that resist such conversion. Community spaces exist outside this calculus. They generate less tangible returns such as social cohesion, intergenerational connection, positive mental health and a sense of belonging.
The argument advanced in defence of the legal action rests on the language of fiduciary duty. The trustees, we are told, must act in the best interests of their organisation. But this interpretation is conveniently narrow. It assumes that 'best interests' are synonymous with financial maximisation. In reality, fiduciary responsibility is far more nuanced. It encompasses reputation, public trust and alignment with purpose.
This tension between formal responsibility and moral obligation is not new. As Harari observes, one of the defining innovations of modern economic life was the creation of structures that separate personal accountability from collective action. Limited liability companies, for instance, have enabled extraordinary growth by insulating individuals from the full consequences of their decisions. This same separation has also fostered a culture in which ethical considerations are too easily deferred.
We are now living with the consequences of that deferral. The results of decisions made in boardrooms and trust offices echo through communities, often in ways that cannot be undone. When legal strategy overrides lived experience, and when financial logic eclipses social value, the result is a kind of civic impoverishment that no reference to a balance sheet can remedy.
Leadership, in this context, demands more than procedural correctness. It requires moral imagination, the ability to see beyond immediate obligations to the broader impact of one’s choices. Institutions, particularly those with charitable or spiritual mandates, must be held to the highest standard. Their legitimacy rests not only on what they do, but on how and why they do it.
The Pt Chevalier land is not unique in its function, but it is emblematic in its significance. It reminds us that community spaces are not luxuries. They provide the infrastructure for human flourishing. They are where children learn to belong, where neighbours become friends and where the idea of a cohesive society becomes tangible.
To lose such spaces is to lose something far greater than land. It is to diminish the connective tissue that binds us together. And in an age where division and dislocation are increasingly the norm, that is a cost we can ill afford.
In the wee small hours of a summer’s morn’, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 slipped quietly into the Waitematā Harbour.
It may have been 5am, but there were a number of us ‘shippies' standing on the breakwater at Judges Bay watching her glide past, lights ablaze, out of the gloom and into the bright lights of the container wharf where she would dock. The ‘Mary’ fulfills the lofty title of the 'Worlds Last Liner' and even at 22-years-old – which is getting on in ship years – she still evokes a certain awe when you see her.
Ships are the largest moving objects made by man. When you are standing on a rock at 5am on the harbour's edge and the 72m high walls of steel slide past you, you feel it.
It may be just another world cruise for this ship and its passengers, but for us here in NZ this will probably be the last time that we see Cunard for some time. Cunard and many other lines, have pulled their plugs on an NZ visit due, in part, to the high cost of doing business on this side side of the world and partly – as reported to me by a Cunard officer – “because of the high degree of cleanliness required of the ships hulls in keeping with NZ's strict bio controls.” According to the Cruise Association of NZ, it has hit our business community hard – a 40% drop in visits directly affecting an industry that contributes $201m to our city's economy.
Sadly, I am not a Cunarder cruiser this year and have to watch as Cunard's sole representative makes an appearance without me being onboard. But, I do have the bonus of a number of friends who are, and today is an opportunity to show off our magnificent country to them.
Eagerly meeting 'the usual suspects’, at the doors to the cruise terminal, we quickly found ourselves on the Southern Motorway taking full advantage of the new 110km speed limit. The QM leaves at 8pm tonight and she waits for no man or woman.
We often forget that we live so close to one of New Zealand's primo attractions – the Hamilton Gardens and it is visited from Auckland comfortably in a day. Designed by its visionary creator Dr Peter Sergel, the gardens are continually expanding, faithfully following the original plan of 50 gardens. Totalling 30 already, they have 20 to go and soon, by opening the 'Medieval Cloister', they will add another.
I have a special invite for us to preview the nearly completed garden, also to partake in a 'behind the scenes tour' of the facility.
We were led around the perimeter of many of the popular gardens to discover that they are serviced by a large number of underground tunnels and culverts, similar to a country house where, behind the walls of the great rooms, there are a series of hidden corridors and stairways to keep the working man separated from the 'better and the good'. While we walked through the culverts, there were groups of tourists walking above and around us, oblivious that we were just on the other side of the foliage.
Alongside the beginnings of the next great work – the Baroque Garden – 90% of the stonework of the Medieval Cloister is now complete with a projected mid-year opening. With clever sight lines especially set up it may appear to be a fully functional medieval monastery, but it is all a very clever movie set. The design leveraging forced perspectives with the never to be finished edges, tucked just outside the eye line.
At points where you perceive long alleyways leading off into the distance, you discover that the effect is just a mirage – the edifice may only be six feet deep.
Likewise, the homestead in the Mansfield Garden and the palace in the Indian Char Bagh Gardens, were exposed to us as mere imposters. Sure, they might seem like solid edifices made to host vast rooms within their confines, but go around the back of them and you will discover a magic that would make Hollywood proud.
But, before long, it was time to return my friends to another illusion, the QM2, waiting at the port to whisk them off to another exotic locale in their illusional bubble of Champagne and caviar, a condition that separates its passengers from reality, where you are deluded that all is right with the world and the existence of current geopolitical events don’t exist. I for one, can’t wait to be on next year's World Cruise for that very illusion alone. (ROSS THORBY) PN
WHY A FINANCIAL HEALTH CHECK
MATTERS
MORE THAN EVER
The start of the year is an ideal time to take a structured look at your financial position.
For households and business owners alike, a well-timed financial health check can provide clarity, reduce risk, and support better decision-making throughout the year. This is particularly important in an environment where Inland Revenue is taking a firmer approach to tax debt and compliance.
A financial health check is not simply about reacting to a problem. Rather, it is about understanding where you stand today and whether your current financial settings remain appropriate. For individuals, this may involve reviewing income, expenses, debt, savings, and longterm goals. For business owners, it typically includes assessing cash flow, profitability, tax obligations, and whether the business is tracking in line with expectations.
Inland Revenue’s Tougher Stance on Tax Debt
Inland Revenue has been signalling for some time that its approach to tax debt is changing. After several years of greater flexibility, IRD is now placing increased emphasis on early intervention, active debt collection, and stronger enforcement.
This shift is being driven by a combination of factors. Government finances remain under pressure, and Inland Revenue has invested significantly in data-matching technology, automation, and compliance capability. This allows IRD to identify issues earlier and follow up more consistently. As a result, taxpayers can expect less tolerance for missed payments, fewer routine extensions, and faster escalation where obligations are not met.
While Inland Revenue remains willing to work constructively with taxpayers, timing is critical. Engaging early, before debt escalates or penalties accrue, greatly improves the options available. Delaying action often limits flexibility and increases cost.
Why Forecasting and Monitoring Are Critical
One of the most effective ways to stay ahead of tax and cash flow issues is through a forecasted budget that is regularly reviewed and updated. A budget should not be treated as a once-a-year exercise. When used properly, it becomes a practical management tool.
Cash flow forecasting allows potential pressure points to be identified well in advance. This is particularly important for businesses managing GST, PAYE, and provisional tax obligations, which can place strain on cash reserves if not planned for. Forecasting helps answer critical questions: Will there be sufficient cash to meet upcoming tax
Equally important is monitoring actual performance against forecast. Regular review allows small issues to be addressed early, rather than requiring larger corrective actions under pressure later.
How We Can Help
At Johnston Associates, we help clients take a proactive and structured approach to financial management. A financial health check can be tailored to your circumstances and may include:
· Cash flow forecasting and budgeting, with ongoing monitoring Reviewing tax obligations and payment strategies
· Business valuations to understand performance and value drivers Profitability and performance analysis
· Strategic advice around structure, growth, and succession planning
A financial health check is about creating visibility and control. In a more demanding compliance environment, preparation and planning have never been more important. 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.
payments? How sensitive is the business to changes in revenue or costs? What decisions need to be made now to avoid future issues?
ARE YOU A SENIOR LEADER IN YOUR ORGANISATION, OR ASPIRING TO BE ONE?
Management magazine strives to inspire New Zealand leaders with insights and critical future-based thinking that helps you define who you are as a leader, how you want to lead and learn how others want to be led.
If you want to hone your leadership skills and tap into your aspirations, join our nationwide readers who turn to our digital publications for ideas and global perspectives that may change the way you think and the way you lead.
Visit www.management.co.nz to discover more, or scan the QR code to subscribe to our digital issue for free.
PHIL PARKER: PEGASUS BAY ALL THE WAY
This month, I’m featuring one of my favourite wineries in the South Island.
Owned by the extensive Donaldson family, Pegasus Bay is the local star in Waipara, with their wines having won many awards. Founder Ivan Donaldson is a professor of neurology, wine writer and wine judge. His wife Christine is involved in the business and spends most of her time maintaining the winery's extensive grounds. Sons Mathew and Edward are very much involved in day-to-day business. Their Pegasus Bay pinot noir is renowned as one of Canterbury’s greatest wines. Main Divide, second tier range, is extremely good and great value – especially the pinot noir and riesling.
Pegasus Bay North Canterbury Riesling 2025 - $30
Fresh, young, zingy and bursting with flavour. Medium sweet style. Quince, elderflower, lime marmalade and jasmine florals, with a hint of ripe sun-kissed grapefruit.
Food Match: Aperitif with cheese board, or with Vietnamese cuisine. Available: Glengarry, Caros, advintage.co.nz pegasusbay.com
Pegasus Bay North Canterbury Aged Release Riesling 2016 - $45
Just nudging off dry and at 12.5% ABV. Beeswax, red apple, honeysuckle and guava jelly. Elegant and tangy, lengthy palate of clover honey and apricot jam. Long dry finish.
Sweet and unctuous, with floral honeysuckle and jasmine. Luscious crème brulée toffee, orange marmalade citrus and soft acids.
Food match: Cheese board, fruit platter. Available: pegasusbay.com
Pegasus Bay North Canterbury ‘Encore’ Noble Riesling 2025 - $45
Classic dessert style. Bursting with mouth-watering sweetness, balanced by lively acidity. Poached pear, lime citrus, lychee and apricot jam. Extremely lengthy palate. Fabulous!
Food match: Cheese board, fruit platter. Available: pegasusbay.com
Pegasus Bay North Canterbury Pinot Noir Aged Release 2016 - $80
Smells like spice drawer, poached plum and vanilla with a tad of pot pourri. Flavours of dark chocolate, cherry, poached plums and a hint of Glühwein. Smooth and velvety.
Food match: BBQ lamb or beef, or a rich tomato-based veggie lasagne. Available: pegasusbay.com finewines.co.nz
Pegasus Bay North Canterbury ‘Prima Donna’ Pinot Noir Aged Release 2016 - $140
Very much more on the savoury/umami spectrum, with hints of dark fruits and black cherry. Dark chocolate and mocha, with tobacco leaf, mushroom, cinnamon and a tad of tawny port.
Food match: Pasta with truffle and mushroom sauce. Available: pegasusbay.com (PHIL PARKER) PN
www.finewinetours.co.nz, phil.parker@xtra.co.nz
WAIHEKE JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL
This Easter the Waiheke Jazz & Blues Festival is hosted at three special venues on the island.
Allpress Olive Groves (formerly Rangihoua Estate) hosts the Fullers360 Good Friday Groove on Friday 3 April. Goldie Estate, Waiheke’s pioneering vineyard, hosts the Blues Revue on Saturday 4 April and Batch Winery, boasting an elevated position on one of the island's highest points, hosts the legendary Jazz Long Lunch on Easter Monday, 6 April. Fullers360 ferry and bus packages are available. Leave your car at home!
All tickets, including very limited early release VIP tickets for the Fullers360 Good Friday Groove, are ON SALE NOW! Make a plan. Book your travel and accommodation today.
For all information and tickets, go to www.waihekejazzfestival.co.nz
Check us on facebook at www.facebook.com/waihekejazzfestival
Come for the day or make a 'Waihekend' of it.
2026 Waiheke Jazz & Blues Festival Programme
Fullers360 GOOD FRIDAY GROOVE Venue – Allpress Olive Groves. Friday 3 April 12 noon – 5pm
The Fullers360 Good Friday Groove features dual headliners Mark Williams (currently lead vocalist with NZ/ Australian legendary supergroup Dragon) and the internationally acclaimed singer Deva Mahal with her stunning band. Also on
the bill are Kim Willoughby from 'When the Cats Away' fame performing with Kiwi icons the Narcs, plus the powerhouse WBB Big Band and the soulful, brassy Big Tasty. 5 bands. 5 hours.
*Expect stunning musical performances, great food and wine in beautiful surroundings. Bring a picnic blanket or a folding chair and your dancing shoes! Limited VIP tickets available.
BLUES REVUE Venue – Goldie Estate Saturday 4 April 12 noon – 5pm
The Blues Revue returns to Goldie Estate again in 2026. Two intimate stages interchange performances from Hammond Gamble, Kokomo, Boom! Boom! Deluxe, the De Sotos, Jan Preston, the Big Boss Men and local Waiheke Blues duo Katy Soljak and Mano Pratt. Goldie will be selling a Southern-style menu in keeping with the Blues tradition.
JAZZ LONG LUNCH Venue – Batch Winery Monday 6 April 1pm – 4pm
Three superb acts including the number one jazz clarinet player in Europe right now Adrian Cox and his international trio are joined by New Zealand’s favourite jazz entertainers the Nairobi Trio and Australasia's queen of boogie piano Jan Preston with Mike Pullman on percussion. This is the ideal way to round off the festival long weekend.
*Expect stellar performances from world-class musicians while enjoying sweeping views back to Auckland and the gulf. Lunch is included in the ticket price for this show.
Buy tickets online at www.waihekejazzfestival.co.nz
Deva Mahal
Adrian Cox Trio
FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET
Emad can be found in the hall at Grey Lynn Farmers Market, surrounded by an array of innovative products.
Where did you grow up?
Mashhad – it is a large city in the northeast of Iran.
Is that where you were educated?
Partially. I studied food science and technology for my undergraduate degree, but I came to New Zealand for my postgraduate degree, specialising in dairy and functional foods.
What are functional foods?
Think of them as supercharged familiar foods. Functional foods have been enriched or enhanced. They might contain more nutrients than ordinary food or they might be processed to improve the bioavailability of existing nutrients to provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
What opportunities has your degree provided?
I gained valuable industry experience and technical skills, including working in the New Zealand dairy sector at OOB Organic and Puhoi Valley Cheese. It has given me strong capabilities in food production for setting up a new food business. And, of course, it led to the development of FermVine®
What is FermVine®?
FermVine® is an advanced food source that contains a mix of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to provide exceptional health benefits.
It’s a bioactive concentrate made from naturally fermented oyster mushroom and wood ear mushroom (Pleurotus and Auricularia). This breakthrough formulation provides a comprehensive spectrum of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, betaglucans, polyphenols, enzymes and beneficial microbial metabolites.
Tell us about the difference between all those biotics. Probiotics are 'good bugs' that your gut needs. In FermVine®, they are mainly lactic acid bacteria. Prebiotics are food that those 'good bugs' need to thrive. For example, dietary fibre. Postbiotics are the valuable nutrients that are produced by the 'good bugs'.
How do people take FermVine®?
We make two ranges. One is powders that people can mix with water or in a smoothie, and the other range is readymade tonics that people take as a daily shot. We craft these products with a range of herbs and other functional foods to boost the benefits to suit specific health needs, eg – detox, energy and immunity.
What led to creating this innovation?
My wife and I are good friends with Mousa and his wife Sahar. They have been growing mushrooms and selling them at markets, including Grey Lynn. Socially, we’d often talk shop about improving the nutritional benefits of foods. We talked a lot about unlocking the full nutritional value of mushrooms. That’s how we set up our shared venture, Mana Kai Fresh, to make FermVine® products.
How can people trust something so new?
That’s why we come to the market. Customers need good information about nutrition and why our products can be so helpful. They need to be able to ask questions. Mana Kai Fresh is based on three pillars: innovation, scientific excellence and sustainability.
Scientific excellence?
Mousa, myself and our wives are scientists at heart. We take an evidence-based approach to formulation. We validate our products through accredited third-party testing, and we ensure transparency by backing our claims with scientific references. And we have plans to collaborate with institutions like Massey University for future research and clinical studies.
How is the Grey Lynn Farmers Market for you?
I love how open Grey Lynners are to new ideas. I have made many new friends with customers and other stallholders – it’s a welcoming community.
Do you get any time for hobbies?
I love woodwork and enjoy creating artistic pieces when I can. But life is very busy with establishing Mana Kai Fresh, and we are expecting our first child in a few months – it’s an exciting time. PN
Invited to check in to Whittaker’s Hotel Sweet Bookings.
Whittaker’s chocolate concierge stands in front of Hotel Fitzroy, which has been gift wrapped in a giant bow to mark the launch of the Whittaker’s Hotel Sweet.
This is what dreams are made of! To celebrate 130 years of chocolate making, Whittaker’s is inviting Chocolate Lovers to book a night at Hotel Sweet, a one-of-a-kind chocolate ‘sweet’ designed for the ultimate overnight indulgence.
From chocolate tastings to factory tours, food tourism centered around iconic flavours is booming globally. With Hotel Sweet, Whittaker’s is bringing an indulgent overnight experience to Kiwi Chocolate Lovers.
From 5-18 April, Whittaker's will take over a luxury suite at Auckland's historic Hotel Fitzroy, transforming the boutique hotel into the sweetest stay in the country – first come, first served.
Set inside one of Auckland’s most intimate boutique hotels, Whittaker’s will transform the space into an immersive celebration of 130 years of chocolate making. The hotel will be ‘choc’ full of subtle nods for Chocolate Lovers who know their Whittaker’s history.
Guests can expect a delicious Whittaker’s welcome on arrival, decadent chocolate-inspired bed linen and robes, a curated Whittaker’s library celebrating the brand’s history and, of course, plenty of Whittaker’s treats along the way.
A limited number of one-night stays will be available for singles or couples across the two-week celebration. They are
open for a one-of-a-kind chocolate stay to celebrate 130 years of Whittaker’s.
Holly Whittaker, Co-Chief Operating Officer, says turning 130 felt like the perfect excuse to do something a little sweet.
“Whittaker’s has been part of Kiwi life for generations, so our 130th birthday felt like something we should celebrate with the Chocolate Lovers who’ve supported us all these years,” she says.
“Whittaker’s Hotel Sweet lets people step inside that celebration, enjoy a few familiar favourites and have some fun with it. It’s our birthday, after all.”
Hotel Sweet marks the first time in Whittaker's history that the brand has created a bookable overnight experience.
All proceeds from suite bookings will be donated to Save the Kiwi, Whittaker's longest-standing charity partner, celebrating 10 years together this year.
The first tranche of bookings are now open and are expected to disappear quickly. Visit whittakershotelsweet.co.nz to secure your place.
Whittaker’s 130th birthday celebrations will take place throughout the year, including activities and celebrations connected to the brand’s Wellington roots.
THE AOTEA COMPANY: ISLAND SPIRIT, SUMMER READY
Born from the rugged beauty of Aotea Great Barrier Island, The Aotea Company is built on a simple idea: creating premium, nature-led products that carry the island’s spirit into everyday life. Founded by Bayard Sinnema, the business blends sustainability, provenance and community into brands that celebrate connection, flavour and the joy of summer.
Leading the portfolio is Barrier Buzz, a naturally bold range of non-alcoholic beverages made with real ingredients and authentic Aotea mānuka honey. Available in Cola, Lemonade and Ginger Beer, each bottle delivers clean, honest refreshment with genuine character — perfect for beach days, boat trips, backyard BBQs or long evenings shared with friends. It’s soda, but with a sense of place.
Complementing this is Stumpy & Chop, a premium selection of sustainably sourced mānuka and kānuka wood splits and chunks designed for BBQ cooks and outdoor fire enthusiasts. With rich aromas and distinctive smoke profiles, Stumpy & Chop elevates everything from low-and-slow brisket to a simple weekend grill. It’s about the ritual of lighting the fire, slowing down and bringing people together around good food and natural flavour.
Together, Barrier Buzz and Stumpy & Chop embody The Aotea Company’s belief in better by nature — products that respect the land, honour local sourcing, and create memorable shared experiences.
Available now and perfectly timed for the warmer months, The Aotea Company invites you to bring a true taste of Aotea into your summer — whether it’s a chilled bottle in hand or the glow of a well-stoked BBQ at dusk.
theaoteacompany.co.nz
BARRIER BUZZ
A range of naturally sweetened sodas with Aotea mānuka honey. @drinkbarrierbuzz
STUMPY & CHOP
Premium mānuka and kānuka splits and chunks for superior BBQ smoking.
www.theaoteacompany.co.nz
DINNER :
Tuesday to Sunday from 5:30pm
LUNCH : Saturday from 12 noon
OPEN 7 DAYS!
NEW tasting menus and À la carte available
$75 Prix Fixe menu on Sunday & Monday
Tuesday : Test Kitchen - $80pp
Champagne Lunch bookings are now open - $120pp
Wednesday/Thursday : BYO & Duck Dinner for two - $95 + $25 corkage
4-Course lunch with a glass of champagne on arrival
Friday & Saturday from 12:00pm
Friday : Steak Frites w Unlimited Truffle Fries - $49.50pp
SUMMER OPENING HOURS
Sunday : Prix Fixe Menu - $75pp
Monday - Sunday 5:30pm - Late
Friday & Saturday lunch 12:00pm - 3:00pm
210 SYMONDS STREET T: 09 377 1911
www.thefrenchcafe.co.nz thefrenchcafe
Photography: Josh Griggs
Photography: Babiche Martens
BUSTER
CALDWELL: CRAFTING COLOUR AND CHARACTER FROM PONSONBY
For interior designer Buster Caldwell, colour is never just decoration. It’s a design tool – one capable of shaping mood, identity and atmosphere within a space.
That philosophy has become a defining feature of Caldwell’s work through his Auckland-based design studio, Wonder Group, now proudly located in Ponsonby.
In 2026, Caldwell joins the judging panel for the prestigious Dulux Colour Awards, a milestone year for the programme. While the awards celebrate their 40th anniversary in Australia, they also mark 15 years of New Zealand participation, a moment that recognises the growing influence of local designers on the wider design landscape.
For Caldwell, being invited to judge the awards is both an honour and an opportunity to champion thoughtful design. He sees colour as one of the most powerful tools available to designers, capable of moving beyond the visual to influence how a space feels and functions.
“Colour stirs feeling and attitude within a space,” Caldwell says. “With the right hand, it moves beyond the visual and into something very special.”
That belief sits at the heart of Wonder Group’s work. Founded after Caldwell moved to Auckland, the studio has built a reputation for its craft based, reductive design approach across hospitality, retail and workplace interiors. Their projects are known for their clarity and narrative, often balancing bold painted surfaces with natural materials to create spaces that feel both expressive and grounded.
Now operating from Ponsonby, the studio has quietly helped shape some of the neighbourhood’s most loved interiors. Among them are local favourites such as Duck Island and Città – spaces that combine strong identity with an understated confidence.
For Caldwell, the path into design began far from the creative hubs of Auckland. Born in Whanganui, he spent his childhood moving between small rural towns around the central North Island, including Lake Taupō, before attending Hamilton Boys High School.
Growing up in remote environments had a lasting influence on his design thinking. Resourcefulness and problem solving
were part of daily life on the farm long before he realised design could become a career.
“I’ve always been drawn to how things work,” Caldwell says. “Growing up on a remote farm meant fixing and making things with whatever materials were on hand. That curiosity eventually became a discipline.”
He later studied industrial design at Massey University in Wellington, where workshop-based learning reinforced the importance of making and material experimentation in the design process.
That maker-led mindset continues to inform Wonder Group’s philosophy today. Rather than chasing trends, Caldwell focuses on restraint, craft and context, often drawing inspiration from the natural world.
Colour, in particular, is treated as part of a broader spatial logic rather than aesthetic ‘icing'. For Caldwell, the best colour strategies are deliberate and purposeful, helping to define thresholds, signal intent and reinforce atmosphere.
As a judge for the 2026 Dulux Colour Awards, that is exactly what he’ll be looking for: projects where colour is integral to the design rather than applied at the end.
“I’ll be looking for entries where colour is a reasoned decision,” he says. “The strongest projects have clarity on why the scheme works and how it supports the needs of the space.”
From rural beginnings to shaping some of Ponsonby’s most recognisable interiors, Caldwell’s journey reflects a distinctly New Zealand approach to design, grounded in craft, place and thoughtful simplicity. And as the Dulux Colour Awards celebrate a milestone year, his perspective offers a reminder that colour, when used with intent, can transform the everyday spaces where we live, work and gather.
wonder.group/studio
ANGEL FOOD EXPANDS
Angel Food expands beyond vegan cheese with launch of new ready meal range.
Vegan cheese pioneer Angel Food is expanding beyond vegan cheese into chilled plant-based ready meals.
There are four varieties in the initial range: butter ‘chicken’, korma, lasagna and a tofu bowl.
“We had so many meal ideas it was hard to narrow it down!” says Angel Food founder Alice Shopland. “But we settled on these four because they’re so delicious and they’ll suit a wide range of people and occasions. Our aim is to strike a great balance between healthy and indulgent, so they’ve got plenty of vegetables, fibre and protein, but they’re also super tasty.”
The meals are available now in the health chillers at 75 Woolworths stores.
Angel Food was established in 2006 and was the first commercial vegan cheese brand in Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Angel Food’s mission has always been to make plantbased eating easier and more appealing for more people,”
Shopland says. “As well as ingredients like our cheese alternatives, customers want full meal solutions either because of busy lives or because plant-based cooking is new and feels a bit challenging.
“It’s always exciting launching new products and launching into a new category is even better.”
At a time when some plant-based products and brands are being quietly withdrawn from shelves, Angel Food is doing the opposite.
“People aren’t turning away from plant-based eating, but they’re insisting the food taste good, feel familiar and fit real life,” says Shopland. “After nearly two decades of talking with our vegan, allergy and flexitarian customers, we’re confident that well made, flavour-led meals that make every day eating easier are exactly where the category is heading, and that’s why we’re investing in ready meals now.”
For further information: Angelfood.co.nz
AYURVEDA – THE ART OF LIVING WELL
Seasonal Shift:
Preparing Your Body for Winter the Ayurvedic Way
As the seasons turn in Auckland, the shift is unmistakable with cooler temperatures, rain storms and shorter days as daylight saving comes to an end. This transition is also when colds and flus begin to circulate. Children bring home bugs from school, workplaces become breeding grounds for viruses and social gatherings can easily lead to a runny nose or sore throat.
In Ayurveda, this time of year is governed by Kapha dosha, which carries qualities of cold, heaviness and moisture. These environmental influences can accumulate in the body and lead to congestion such as blocked sinuses, coughing and sneezing. Sleep may become disturbed and the immune system can weaken.
Ayurveda takes a preventative approach by encouraging us to align our daily habits with the season to build resilience and support respiratory health.
A simple and effective practice as part of our daily morning routine is the application of a nasal oil called Anu Taila. This medicated formula helps to lubricate and protect the nasal passages, which are the body’s first line of defence.
Anu Taila also offers broader benefits. Its anti inflammatory and nourishing qualities can support relief from headaches, allergies and sinus congestion while enhancing respiratory immunity during the colder months.
For those experiencing persistent symptoms such as chronic sinusitis or hay fever, Ayurveda offers a specialised treatment called Nasya. This therapy is one of the five key treatments in Panchakarma, a deep cleansing and detoxification therapy.
Nasya begins with a gentle massage of the head, neck and face, followed by the application of warm herbal steam to open and prepare the sinus channels. A carefully selected herbal oil, often Anu Taila, is then administered through the nostrils while the head is positioned to support deep absorption.
This treatment can bring significant relief by clearing the airways, reducing headaches, improving sleep and promoting mental clarity. It is especially beneficial for conditions affecting the head and sense organs and is most effective when received as a short series of treatments.
One of our clients, Kris B., shared: “I had been suffering from chronic sinusitis for years with constant congestion and poor sleep. After my first Nasya treatment I felt immediate relief and slept so much better. By the second session my airways were noticeably clearer. It felt more like a spa treatment and the results were incredible.”
As we move further into autumn, this is the ideal time to adopt supportive daily practices and consider a deeper seasonal reset. Incorporating Anu Taila into your morning routine can be a simple yet powerful step to help keep winter ailments at bay.
For a personalised approach, an Ayurvedic consultation can help determine your constitution and guide you towards a tailored plan to stay balanced and resilient throughout winter.
The team at RRMC is excited to announce that its name is changing to The Doctors Richmond Road.
Over the coming weeks, you'll notice a fresh look at Richmond Road Medical Centre practice with new decals and signage. Rest assured that everything else remains unchanged – the same great care and same friendly team.
You’ll still see the same clinical team and reception staff you know and trust and continue to receive the same services. Supporting your healthcare needs will always be top priority.
PLANS TO REBUILD NEW WORLD VICTORIA PARK
Plans to rebuild New World Victoria Park are moving into the next stage, with design work well underway and consents being prepared.
Foodstuffs North Island, the co-operative of local grocer families behind PAK’nSAVE, New World and Four Square stores across the North Island, has multiple parts of the project progressing at the same time, all focused on getting a new supermarket built and open for the community as soon as possible.
Steve Purton, owner-operator of New World Victoria Park, says the team is working hard to keep momentum up.
“We’re going at full pace on the design. We’ve engaged local architects and construction partners to bring the new store to life. As always for these projects, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes and it’s great to see it coming together.”
The team are engaging with Auckland Council on the necessary consenting requirements and timeframes to ensure the store is opened as soon as possible.
To help speed things up, the team plans to construct the structure and envelope of the store while continuing to refine the internal design.
“It’s a practical way to move faster,” says Steve. “By getting approval for the structure and exterior first, we can start building sooner. At the same time, we’ll keep refining the inside of the store so it delivers a great experience when it opens.”
The new store will be a similar size to the previous one, which was destroyed by fire in June 2025, but will be more efficient and easier to shop in.
“This will be a modern, fresh-looking store,” says Steve. “It will be brighter and easier to move around in. We’re planning to update the layout and finishes so it feels contemporary and welcoming, while still fitting in with the neighbourhood.”
As a co-operative of local family owned stores, the priority remains getting a great supermarket back for central Auckland, one that works better for customers, supports local suppliers and continues to serve its loyal community for the long term.
ANVIL STUDIOS: LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO EXPRESS YOUR CREATIVITY?
Look no further! Anvil Studios offers classes that cater to all skill levels and a supportive community to help you grow.
Based in Point Chevalier, we provide classes, workbench rentals and studio hire. As a local business, we offer highquality jewellery education for all skill levels, with classes tailored for beginners, intermediates and advanced practitioners.
Join us at 161 Point Chevalier Road to learn, make and connect.
Our next Beginners Class starting Wednesday, 8 April, 6pm - 9pm
www.anvilstudios.nz info@anvilstudios.nz
EASTER AT ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY
The labyrinth of river stones returns to St Matthew’s in the week leading up to Easter Day.
The labyrinth is open and available for walking on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 March, 10am – 4pm and on Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 April, 10am – 8pm. Dancer Jenny de Leon performs each day from 12 noon – 12.20pm.
The three days of Easter begins on Maundy Thursday, 2 April, 7pm – a quiet service with foot washing, the last communion before Easter and the stripping of the altars.
Good Friday 10am, the day’s solemnity is reflected in a poignant ritual of prayer, word and beautiful music. Following this service is the last chance to walk the labyrinth before it is taken up in preparation for Easter.
The Good Friday Concert, 5pm, In the Shadow of the Cross, includes music by Bach, Byrd, Mozart and Purcell. St Matthew’s Voices combine with Dr Polly Sussex, viola
de gamba and baroque cello and Nicholas Forbes on a chamber organ.
Easter Day begins with a Vigil at 8pm, Saturday 4 April. Moving from darkness to light, the service begins outside with the Paschal candle lit from a small fire, and the first communion of Easter.
The 10am service on Easter Day, 5 April is a festive occasion when, with wonderful music, word and ritual action, we celebrate this high feast of the church year. Everyone is most welcome.
ST MATTHEW-IN-THE-CITY ANGLICAN CHURCH, corner Wellesley and Hobson Streets, T: 09 379 0625, www.stmatthews.nz
10 AM - 8 PM
Gilbert & George were interviewed by Evan Woodruffe for our August 2022 Issue
Check our Ponsonby News website, and social media pages for the latest information to find out about local businesses and issues. Scan the QR code and sign up via our website to get a reminder when the new issue is published online.
Aquarius (the Water Carrier)
21 January - 19 February
You are always able to share when it comes to your friends but recently have felt the need to keep some things to yourself. Don’t ever feel guilty about the choices you make. If you stick to your guns you can then make it clear where you stand in your group.
Pisces (the Fishes)
20 February - 20 March
If you feel lost or are unsure of what direction to take, look around you as there are plenty of signs pointing you in the right direction. Whether it’s a figure in authority pointing the way or a casual acquaintance whispering in your ear, you need to take notice.
Aries (the Ram)
21 March - 20 April
Whatever you do don’t put a limit on your imagination this month. Engulf yourself in artistry from all areas of life. Deny yourself nothing and you will be a richer person from the activities that you’ll experience.
Taurus (the Bull)
21 April - 21 May
You can be forgiven for confusing real life with fantasy this month. Your social life seems quite complicated and you’re having a bit of an issue with trust. It feels like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Seek clarity where you can and your focus should shift.
Gemini (the Twins)
22 May - 21 June
You mustn’t ever be concerned about the opinions of others. However, the fear you have of commitment, whether it’s romantic or otherwise, is changing your behaviour. If you don’t want to change or adapt then don’t, but make your actions clear.
Cancer (the Crab)
22 June - 22 July
Talking about the past can sometimes have an enormous effect on you as a person and to some degree alter your future. You are often drawn to events in your history that produced a certain outcome that was never the result of what you actually wanted. Make peace now as your past and present are about to collide.
Leo (the Lion)
23 July - 21 August
A cleansing purge may be the only way that you’ll find relief from what’s been weighing you down recently. Find the filters that suit you. If you get help from sharing, then share away. Find an outlet that fits in with you rather than the other way around. Do what you want rather than what others want you to do.
Virgo (the Virgin)
22 August - 23 September
You must remain as transparent as you can if you are to build on any relationships that you have. You don’t have to be completely open but must be willing to adapt. It’s not worth concealing anything as then your loved ones may not prove as helpful as you’d like.
Libra (the Scales)
24 September - 23 October
Try and communicate more seems to be the goal at the moment. Don’t be over zealous in your approach as it might put people off. Cleansing your environment will ease any anxiety that you may be feeling about any impending decisions you have to make.
Scorpio (the Scorpion)
24 October - 22 November
Holding on to an object that gives you a feeling of being capable has always been something that is part of who you are. Whatever it is that gives you strength will always make you a person that is both dramatic and passionate at the same time. Separating the two may set you free.
Sagittarius (the Archer)
23 November - 22 December
You may be extreme in your thinking but are fortunate that you are able to except difference. With your mind always active, you are always thinking of ways to change yourself or others. Leave the status quo as it is for a while. Change can occur naturally and organically if left alone.
Capricorn (the Goat)
23 December - 20 January
You’re very clever at guessing and reading between the lines. And you now have the tools in your repertoire to make a difference to other people’s lives. There’s nothing stopping you from changing your routine if you remember to keep going forward.
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