Ponsonby News - November 26

Established: OCTOBER 1989

NOVEMBER 2026

VILLA EXTRAORDINAIRE - P2

10 Ardmore Rd Ponsonby

Marketed by Jason Trowbridge, Ray White, Ponsonby CELEBRATING 37 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

ponsonbynews.co.nz

VILLA EXTRAORDINAIRE… 10 Ardmore Rd Ponsonby 1011 A Rare Legacy of Charm, Scale and Endless Potential Offered to the market for the first time in more than 45 years, this very special villa embodies an extraordinary blend of character, presence and architectural personality. Positioned on a prime 629m² fee simple parcel, this property represents a genuine once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in a coveted setting. From its wide, generous driveway with parking for up to four cars to its captivating silhouette, the property delivers unmatched pedigree. Crossing the threshold reveals one of the finest entranceways you are ever likely to see. The magnificent hallway arch and soaring high ceilings immediately establish the grandeur and authenticity of a time past. Spanning a substantial 180m², the interior features expansive open lounges and inviting sitting rooms centered around period fireplaces, filling the home with warmth and decades of charming history. Four generous bedrooms ensure ample personal space, serviced by an interior bathroom. Beyond the main home, the property expands into exceptional versatility. The private grounds are crowned by a majestic kauri tree that stands as a true living time capsule. The defining jewel of the property is its separate secondary structure: a consented laboratory dating back to 1916. Presenting a multitude of vast options — from an independent work-from-home enclave or artist’s atelier to an adaptive auxiliary space — it offers flexibility rarely seen in character properties. This is a residence designed to be cherished today, tomorrow and for generations to come.

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Early registration of interest is strongly advised.

www.10ardmoreroad.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Moving you safely for over three decades A highly skilled negotiator working for you at all times. A confidential chat over a coffee is always a great starting point. Jason Trowbridge 021 358 888 jason.trowbridge@raywhite.com

Ray White Ponsonby

Megan Jaffe Real Estate Ltd - Licensed (REAA 2008) Ray White Ponsonby | 3 Pompallier Terrace, Ponsonby PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 3

PONSONBY CHARMER… 8 Lincoln Street Ponsonby Metres from Ponsonby Road 6 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 246m² Floor Area | 369m² Freehold Land Opportunities of this calibre are vanishingly rare in Auckland’s most coveted urban precinct. Positioned just metres from the boutique shopping, renowned eateries and vibrant energy of Ponsonby Road, this captivating heritage villa offers an unrepeatable blend of classic romance and high-yield practicality. Configured as two distinct, fully legal three-bedroom residences, No. 8 presents a blue-chip asset where character, scale and lucrative options seamlessly intersect. Timeless Character with Flexible Urban Living

Step inside to experience the grandeur of original ceilings, generous proportions and light-filled spaces that define classic villa architecture. Each independent level provides its own private retreat tailored to modern inner-city life: The Upper Residence: Enjoys direct street access and opens out to an authentic covered veranda, capturing elevated views and the unmistakable rhythm of Ponsonby. Inside, three bedrooms and light-drenched living areas showcase preserved heritage detailing. The Garden Residence: This dwelling offers access directly into a lush, private and tranquil garden oasis. Featuring three bedrooms and relaxed entertaining zones, it delivers a rare slice of peaceful seclusion in the heart of the city.

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Open Home Sat/Sun 12:30 -1pm Auction 17 December in rooms (unless sold prior)

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY SOCIETY… 14 Richmond Road Ponsonby Grandeur, Scale and Limitless Potential… 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Double Garaging plus 2 Car Spaces | 556m² North-West Facing Site Commanding a prized 556m² north-western corner site, this substantial two-storey villa pairs heritage elegance with expansive potential. The interior features a grand woodpanelled staircase, a lounge with a large open fireplace, four spacious, light-filled bedrooms and two bathrooms.

or craft a bespoke luxury residence. Outside, grounds offer scope for a private, sun-soaked garden retreat, underpinned by rare four-vehicle parking. Metres from Ponsonby’s culinary scene, boutiques and transport routes, this is an exceptional opening to make your mark on a neighbourhood icon.

Historically commercial offices, it presents a rare dual opportunity: secure a high-profile corporate headquarters

Open Homes Sat/Sun 11:30-12 noon Sat/Sun Auction 9 December 2pm (unless sold prior)

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W W W . E U R O P E A N A

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

N T I Q U E S . C O . N Z

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doing things that no one wants, needs or has asked for (let alone wants to pay for).

PN | LETTERS & EMAIL

Roger Hawkins, Ponsonby AT STILL AT IT – THE DISRUPTERS HAVE NOT LEFT THE BUILDING!

Auckland Council has not managed to control the excesses of the approximately 1330 Auckland Council transport staff that they transferred from Auckland Transport into Auckland Council. These traffic disrupters are now building yet another totally unnecessary set of traffic lights on Hopetoun Street at the Beresford Square intersection. Inevitably, with raised pedestrian crossings and judder bars.

COUNCIL STAFF NUMBERS AND COST DEMONSTRATE A LACK OF EXECUTIVE SKILLS AND RESTRAINT BY COUNCILLORS

The Mayor and council must move to restructure the now ENORMOUS staff costs within council and remove at least 30-40% of the current workforce. Auckland Council is $15,000,000,000 ($15 BILLION) in debt but has only 630,000 ratepayers (which means every single ratepayer owes the bankers $23,810 each). Currently, Auckland Council has just under 7500 staff at a cost of $1,300,000,000 ($1.3 BILLION) per annum. This means each staff member costs every single one of our 1,800,000 residents (not just the 630,000 ratepayers) $722 each per year. That is NOT value for money! Transport spending in particular must demonstrate clear public value. The council should publicise proposed improvements prior to approval and thereby allow customer input that will lower or avoid costs and disruption that cannot be justified. Auckland Council missed the opportunity to redesign its entire internal business structure recently and remove over 600 unnecessary FTE’s (Full-Time Employees) from the workforce. Just 20 positions were not filled when people departed AT and 1330 moved to Auckland Council. Auckland Transport still employs over 650 staff. As far as can be ascertained, no staff were 'let go' – NONE! So why was the exercise completed in the first place if not to improve efficiencies and produce performance and productivity benefits? Both these groups of staff are overpaid by 25% compared to the private sector and yet seemingly have jobs for life. It is now time for the councillors and the Mayor to answer to the public why they did not take the necessary and obvious opportunity to restrict and downsize their incredibly costly workforce/wages bill. As the old business maxim goes, "If you are not adding value, you are adding cost" and here we have far too many staff

I question whether new traffic lights at Hopetoun Street and Beresford Square are even necessary, given the existing nearby signal-controlled pedestrian crossing at the Pitt Street intersection. The council should be asked to explain whether a simpler pedestrian crossing or a route using the existing lights could meet pedestrian needs at lower cost and with less disruption. Any prior assessment as to viability should compare safety, accessibility and traffic flows. Very obviously, should a free flow of pedestrians from the K' Road CRL station to just the northwest side of Hopetoun Street be justified (which I very much doubt), then JUST a simple painted pedestrian crossing at the bottom of Beresford Square, but without traffic lights, would have sufficed and at a significantly lower cost and achieving a much lower disruption profile than this final result, to the minimal benefit to all involved. Let's be honest here – vehicles must and do stop for pedestrian crossings by law. So, providing expensive '100% guaranteed safety' measures that achieve nothing a simple pedestrian crossing could not cannot in this fiscal environment be justified by any bureaucrats' arguments. Had a professional investigation been completed, then it would have obviously made much more sense to encourage pedestrians leaving the K' Road CRL station to just walk down the northwest side of Pitt Street to the intersection with Hopetoun Street and cross the road MUCH more safely, given that that intersection is already traffic light controlled. The result to this masterpiece of bureaucratic stupidity is now two full sets of traffic lights (inevitably not synchronised) within about 150 metres of each other. This is yet another 'make work' project that is both absolutely unnecessary and financially unjustifiable given the parlous state of Auckland Council's finances. Auckland Council must move to stop the traffic staff from continuing to just build and build unnecessary and unwanted projects such as this single prime example. In order to attempt to justify their continued employment they continue to dream up projects that no one needs or asked for, but which cost a fortune, all the while ignoring the negative input on the lives of all those who are obliged to attempt to use our roads. Roger Hawkins, Ponsonby

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

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

This month’s cover is one of Ray White Ponsonby’s Jason Trowbridge’s listings – 10 Ardmore Road. He describes it as “a rare legacy of charm, scale, and endless potential.” Jason’s current listings include 14 Richmond Road and 8 Lincoln Street.

He was a one of a kind and inspired us to think outside the box and believe that anything was possible. His predictions often came true. Ken’s weather column was followed by fishermen and gardeners. His final words for November predict the weather may bring less than average rain, sunshine and below average temperatures. Ken was a much loved father, grandfather and friend who will be greatly missed by us all. He was a contributor to Ponsonby News for over 15 years. Foodies will know Tom Hishon. He was the founder of Orphans Kitchen, a popular restaurant and café in the heart of Ponsonby Road. We asked him to tell us about breakfast. You describe breakfast as the most generous meal of the day. What is it about breakfast that you love so much? For me, it’s the small rituals and rhythms of breakfast. It can meet you wherever you are in the moment. I don’t tend to wake up particularly hungry, so I can listen to what my body needs and think

HELP WITH ESTATE CLEARANCES We can manage the whole process or any part of it - you choose. We will ensure that special personal belongings are kept safe for the family, unwanted items sold and reports provided to the family, lawyer and executor every step of the way. Elderly Assist’s years of experience and proven processes take the stress out of this difficult time. Here’s what Jeanette had to say on the No Cowboys website 6 March, 2019: "I used Elderly Assist to clear and clean my deceased mother’s house which had not been well maintained for the last few years. From the first phone call to the end result it was stress free and professional. Everything was handled with care and we were kept informed every step of the way.” Rating: 100% Visit www.nocowboys.co.nz/businesses/elderly-assistlimited#ratings for more authenticated testimonials from dozens of Elderly Assist’s happy customers.

For more info and a brochure, contact founder/owner Janice Willis on 0800 839 874 or visit www.elderlyassist.co.nz

Photography: Connor Crawford

Following a short illness, we were sad to learn of the passing of our weather forecaster Ken Ring.

PN | FROM THE EDITORS

We all enjoy following the local real estate market and we’ve seen incredible changes since we purchased our first home – 73 Crummer Road way back in 2001.

Jay Platt & Martin Leach

about what I might make. I love those little morning rituals too. Making my coffee the same way each day, preheating my favourite cup with hot water before pouring in the coffee, and then the pre-kindy and school chaos with our girls happening around us. Breakfast can be incredibly simple or something you take your time over, and I like that flexibility, he says. His new book ‘Good Morning’ is published by Penguin and is available now. (JAY PLATT & MARTIN LEACH)  PN

We are an owner-operator business specialising in estate clearance and helping elderly people transition into retirement care. What we do: • Pack up the house and prepare property for sale. • Assist with the sale of furniture and belongings. Elderly Assist does not take a commission on the sale of goods. • Assist with gifting to friends and family and making donations to charity. • Ensure that special personal belongings are kept safe for family. • Provide a full inventory of individual items of property and what has been done with them. • Liaise with and provide reports to the Lawyer, Power of Attorney, Estate Executor and/or family at every stage.

Janice Willis

Phone: 0800 839 874 www.elderlyassist.co.nz www.movingassist.co.nz

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PN | INSIDE THIS MONTH

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COVER STORY: VILLA EXTRAORDINAIRE

- Gusto Italiano GUSTO MEANING ‘TASTE AND ENJOYMENT’

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LETTERS & EMAILS

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DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW

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DESLEY SIMPSON: DEPUTY MAYOR OF AUCKLAND

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MIKE LEE: AUCKLAND COUNCILLOR

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PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

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FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET

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

We also offer our pasta dishes to takeaway, phone for details or check our website for the menu. 263 PONSONBY RD, THREE LAMPS, 09 361 1556 www.gustoitaliano.co.nz

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LIVING, THINKING & BEING

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SARITA: AYURVEDA NEW ZEALAND

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ARTS + CULTURE

Editor/Publisher: MARTIN LEACH M: 021 771 147 martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz Deputy Editor: JAY PLATT M: 021 771 146 jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz

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HOROSCOPES

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THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

PONSONBY NEWS is published monthly, excluding January by: ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED, P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144, www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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Operations Manager: GWYNNE DAVENPORT M: 021 150 4095 gwynne@ponsonbynews.co.nz 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 otherwise without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies and manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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PN | OUR CONTRIBUTORS

IT’S A TEAM EFFORT... WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT OUR CONTRIBUTORS CANDACE KINSER I'm a proud Aucklander with a deep passion for the people, places and energy that make Auckland Central such a remarkable place. That's why I'm standing as the National Candidate for Auckland Central.

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.

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.

LISA PRAGER A life long advocate for community issues, I am passionate about protecting and enhancing our natural environment and built heritage.

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.

GAEL BALDOCK

ROSS THORBY - QSM

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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...

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

lahood.co.nz

Quiet Elegance

Japandi at Lahood Explore the quiet blend of Japanese wabi-sabi and Scandinavian hygge in our new showroom displays, where natural materials, gentle tones, minimalist style and functional beauty combine to create spaces that feel unhurried, textured and lived in. Visit the Lahood Showroom at 104 Mount Eden Road, call 0800 524 663 or book a complimentary in-home consultation online.

Curtains | Blinds | Shutters | Awnings | Accessories

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DAVID HARTNELL: PN | LOCAL NEWS

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH ANNA WALKER Anna Walker graduated in 2003 and has worked in both hospital and private clinics ever since, both here and in London. She now works at Dental on Richmond. How have things changed with today’s high technology?

Dentistry is an amazing field for adapting new technology. When I graduated from university, we were still taught to place amalgam fillings in back teeth. Within a year of graduating, materials had developed so quickly that I have never placed another one. We are lucky to have amazing technology at our practice with airflows, digital and 3D radiography and scanning to make treatment more comfortable and accurate. How do children accept going to the dentist today?

I think children are much happier about going to the dentist these days. We do see a lot of children who are very worried or have additional needs that make going through the school dental service very difficult. At our clinic we take great pride in trying to make coming to the dentist a really positive experience. I think the TV on the roof above all of our dental chairs certainly helps as well.

Your bucket list?

Give three tips on looking after your teeth?

What job would you do other than your own?

Brush twice a day, morning and night, with a soft toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste. Floss or use something to clean between your teeth (water flossers, interdental brushes or sticks) every night.

I think I'd be a psychologist. I love helping people and I am fascinated by how our minds work.

Reduce snacking. Ideally, we would just have breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The worst thing we can do for our teeth is to be constantly grazing or snacking inbetween these times. It means the bacteria in your mouth constantly have something to feed on. Carbonated drinks, including sparkling water, are not great for your teeth either.

To travel more. I especially want to travel around Europe again. I can't believe it's been so long since we were living in London.

If you were reincarnated, what would you be?

A dog, I think our dog Frankie is so well loved and looked after. He also gets to spend an inordinate amount of time lying in the sun sleeping. How would you like to be remembered?

Kind, friendly and fun. What do you love most about your age?

What is the best thing about where you live?

I live in Grey Lynn really close to our practice. I have always loved the West Lynn shops with their amazing bars, restaurants, cafes, gift and book stores. But what I love the most is our amazing community and how eager people are to support local businesses. What do you like about Ponsonby?

All of the things I've been lucky enough to learn and experience, and that I have so many more years left in front of me to enjoy and make them whatever I want them to be. What motivates you?

I really love looking after people and my hope is that everyone I interact with is a little better off for having met me.

Ponsonby is such a vibrant area. There is always something happening and we are so lucky to have so many amazing bars, restaurants and cafes right on our doorstep. I loved seeing the huge crowd outside Mecca as it opened this morning. My girls will likely spend a lot of time there!

What’s inspired you this year?

What was your childhood like?

Give your teenaged self advice?

I had a great childhood. I grew up in Timaru and I am one of four children, although I do consider myself the middle child. My Dad is one of 11 so I was very lucky to grow up with so many cousins around me. My best friend lived next door so I was never bored and we were always outside playing. Your dream holiday internationally?

My kids are desperate to go skiing in Japan.

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I went to the play RGB about Ruth Bader Ginsburg at the waterfront theatre. I'm not really a feminist but I am conscious I would not be able to do what I do without such inspirational women who have gone before me.

Don't worry so much about what others think of you. How do you chill out?

I don't really as I have three kids and a busy dental practice but I do love spending time with my friends for a good laugh. Most treasured possession?

My family, closely followed by my clothes. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM)  PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JAPANDI – A HOME SHAPED BY FEELING Inside Lahood's New Showroom Displays. Lahood® Window Furnishings has brought a quiet design movement to centre stage at its Mt Eden showroom this October. Japandi, the meeting of Japanese wabi-sabi and Scandinavian hygge, has become one of the most enduring aesthetics in interiors, valued less for how it looks than how it makes a room feel: unhurried, textured and lived in. A simple, uncluttered approach, where every element has a purpose and a sense of beauty. Wabi-Sabi Meets Hygge

The two ideas at its heart are simple. Wabi-sabi finds beauty in imperfection and the passage of time - a handmade bowl, a visible timber grain. Hygge is its Scandinavian counterpart, an instinct for uncomplicated, everyday warmth and cosiness. Lahood’s Japandi displays draw on these shared principles, with natural materials including linen, timber, bamboo, and stone combined with muted neutral tones with warm pinks and strokes of ink black.

CALMING WARMTH

The main window display leads with calming warmth. Its hero is Mokum Colour Field, a soft linen in warm, sun-faded pinks and clays shades. The design has the loose, gestural feel of hand-painted brushwork, with layered blocks of deliberately uneven colour that speak to wabi-sabi imperfection. Draped softly beside a BoConcept Bolzano swivel armchair in textured cream Lazio fabric and Lahood Lifestyle Banksia linen-look fabric in a gentle Blush shade, the combination creates a space that feels relaxed and unhurried.

DARK JAPANDI

Another display vignette leans towards the popular Dark Japandi mood. Mokum’s Abstraction linen in Basalt features black, ink-like brushstrokes and pairs with the deliberate imperfection of a hand-loomed Peter Myers Roman blind in Silk Road’s rustic weave. Both sit against the restrained lines of a Soren Liv Classique dining table in dark oak and its Sketch Tami chairs. Together, the dark tones, tactile textures and clean lines create a space that feels grounded, considered and quietly confident.

WIN YOUR OWN JAPANDI LOOK

To celebrate the Japandi theme, Lahood is giving away a collection of accessories worth over $700 to help you create your own Japandi look at home. To enter, simply visit Lahood curtain and blinds showroom at 104 Mount Eden Road during November. No purchase required.

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photography: Thomas Hamill

PN | LOCAL NEWS Dillon Rhodes

BACK TO THE 80S

Get out your lycra and legwarmers – Auckland Phil is taking you Back to the 80s.

photography: Andi Crown

Auckland Phil is bringing back the 80s in a high energy, can’tsit-still concert featuring three stunning NZ vocalists and the full symphonic force of live orchestra. From the romance of ‘The Power of Love’ and ‘Time After Time’ to the attitude of ‘Material Girl’ and the feel-good rush of ‘I’m Still Standing’ and ‘Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)’. Dig out your best retro outfit and come dressed to impress. This will be a nonstop joyride through the biggest hits of the decade that defined fun — packed wall-to-wall with songs you know by heart and love to sing out loud! Powerhouse vocalists Bella Kalolo, Dillon Rhodes and Maaka Pohatu will bring fully orchestrated arrangements of these 80s classics to life for an electrifying concert experience.

Bella Kalolo

Maaka Pohatu

Bella Kalolo has performed across Europe, including Glastonbury and the City of London Festival, and has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Dave Dobbyn and Fat Freddy’s Drop.

Dillon Rhodes has appeared on ‘The Voice’ Australia and is the front-man of esteemed 10-piece funk ensemble Hipstamatics.

Maaka Pohatu is a core member of the Māori Modern Quartet, a much-loved and talented group that puts a fresh take on the classic Māori showband.

Barfoot & Thompson presents Back to the 80s 7.30pm, Saturday 14 November, Aotea Centre

This is one night you can’t miss!

photography: Thomas Hamill

www.aucklandphil.nz

Auckland Philharmonia

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Digestive symptoms are common and most of the time they are nothing to be concerned about. Bloating after a large meal, occasional heartburn or an irregular bowel motion can all happen from time to time. But when symptoms persist, change or occur alongside other warning signs, it may be time to take a closer look.

PN | LOCAL NEWS

IS YOUR GUT TRYING TO TELL YOU SOMETHING? WHEN TO GET YOUR SYMPTOMS CHECKED

Reflux, for example, is experienced on a weekly basis by 10-20% of adults in Australia and New Zealand, but when reflux is measured scientifically, small amounts of acid may enter the oesophagus up to 30 times over a normal day. So, its presence does not necessarily indicate disease. Reflux causing troublesome symptoms more than twice a week, however, warrants discussion with your doctor. Treatment, or further investigation, including gastroscopy, may be appropriate. Normal bowel function also varies considerably. Anywhere from three bowel motions a day to three a week can be normal. What matters is knowing what is normal for you. Bowel motions should be comfortable to pass and should not contain visible blood. A persistent change in frequency or form lasting more than six weeks should be assessed. Other warning signs include unexplained weight loss, iron deficiency anaemia and persistent abdominal pain. Simple stool tests can also look for infection, inflammation or microscopic blood and help determine whether further investigation is needed. At Waitematā Endoscopy, our experienced specialists provide colonoscopy, gastroscopy and other investigations to help distinguish

normal digestive variation from problems requiring treatment, giving patients clearer answers and reassurance about their gut health. Most colonoscopy and gastroscopy procedures can be arranged within seven working days of referral, making specialist assessment straightforward when further investigation is recommended. Associate Professor Dr Russell Walmsley Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist Waitematā Endoscopy T: 09 925 4449

To learn more, visit our website

www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz

provide peace of mind for you and your Whānau With increased capacity, Waitemata Endoscopy provides greater peace of mind for patients with timely access to care. Our experienced team are dedicated to providing exceptional endoscopy care at every opportunity. Appointments are available within 7 working days for most Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy procedures by matching you with the availability of our Gastroenterologists & Surgeons*. Talk to your GP about a referral to the Waitemata Endoscopy Group, or you can self-refer at:

www.waitemataendoscopy.co.nz/book WE have you covered from 'Top to Bottom'

*Visit our website to find out more

Associate Professor Dr Russell Walmsley Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist

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PN | LOCAL NEWS

BLACK GRACE FALE PERFORMANCE OF COMPANY B ‘THE EGGYSSEY’ Coinciding with winning the Creative NZ Arts Pasifika Business Award this week, Black Grace staged its latest show in its own newly established studio in Ophir Street, Newton. The ever gracious Neil Ieremia, addressing the audience after the opening night performance, acknowledged the sponsors who have supported the company currently and over the last 30 years, as this long dreamt of facility has finally been realised.

A melee of constant movement, there was no moment when the 10 dancers were not twitching, pulsing, bouncing, stamping, vocalising and smiling or grimacing, laughing or crying, except when they were in slow motion or freeze control which required an equal amount of strength and precision timing.

Explaining that the two bold murals outside the Black Grace Fale are of his late father and his 21-year-old son, he acknowledged both the past and the future possibilities that await. A sense of family pervades the fale with young and old in attendance and it is Ieremia’s quiet determination to bring his ideas to fruition over three decades at the helm that defines his leadership.

An ensemble piece that blooded the first alumni of another Ieremia dream – the Academy which aims to train new dancers in all disciplines of a full dance career. After a three month, 20 hour a week programme of evenings and weekend workshopping, they appear alongside company dancers who cement Black Grace’s success nationally and off-shore. Among them Faith Schuster, a mesmerising concentration of power, Isope Akauola delivering sensuous fluidity, while dynamo Deija Vukona commands attention with her unwavering gaze.

A somewhat tongue-in-cheek conceptualisation of the big themes of life, Eggyssey was a non-stop, high-energy explosion of colour, rhythm and life. The dancers were costumed wearing oversized jackets in vivid monocolour, contrasting pants and white tees. They looked to be having great fun and from the get-go the audience was drawn irresistibly into the exuberance.

This felt like a celebration, much deserved, of all that has been accomplished over three decades and what is still to come. If you don’t leave the fale bouncing, pulsing or dancing even, you will most surely be smiling. (CAIT MCLENNAN WHYTE)

Black Grace Fale performance of Company B ‘The Eggyssey’

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

My Name is Lara and I had a pretty easy and fun upbringing but hated school and going to sleep (because of friendly ghosts). I loved soccer, gymnastics, snowboarding and art as a child. I had strange experiences growing up and would watch 'Casper The Friendly Ghost' on repeat. That movie always made me feel normal because in my reality I was struggling to comprehend why I was seeing, hearing and feeling dead people. I eventually buried that part of me and it would occasionally emerge in my teens when drinking or late at night when I was alone.

PN | LOCAL NEWS

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM A READING WITH YOU?

I got my first job in a nursing home working in the kitchen. I then progressed to a carer role at 17. I got exposed to death and dying fast in that role. I loved being there for individuals in their final moments providing them comfort and dignity. I felt natural in that environment. I was drawn to listening to my residents' life tribulations, lessons, regrets, fears, achievements and much more. I was 21 and enjoying time in Canada snowboarding when my whole world got fractured. My beautiful Sis, Jenna, was diagnosed with a rare cancer and required emergency surgery. I was on my way back from Canada and made it in time. However, she ultimately died in 2012. I became a very ugly, angry time bomb after she died. I was into my second year studying nursing but my grief took control and I started failing. I dropped out and threw myself into partying and drinking the pain away. Thankfully, my Sis sent me a healing man. I will never forget the first date we shared. It was one sign after another from her. My partner Jake and I ended up moving to Brisbane and shortly after we got gifted our son. This gave me light again. I did a beauty therapy course while I had my little boy, but it never felt right. It was during COVID my abilities started to slap me in the face. I told my Jake I thought I was a psychic medium or just crazy? He was quick to test me and soon became a believer as I was connecting with his Nana Hannah and relatives on the other side. Fast forward to today, with all my life experiences and obstacles, I am passionate about sharing my abilities and providing others with the opportunity to communicate spiritually. I strongly believe that without this connection,

I wouldn’t be here. I am grateful to my Sis Jenna and guides for providing me perspective to move forward with grief. With Love Friendly Ghost www.friendlyghost-medium.com

Each reading is personalised and held in a compassionate, safe space. Whether you’re navigating grief, life changes, or simply seeking clarity, my goal is to offer grounded, heart-centred support and meaningful insight.

www.friendlyghost-medium.com PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 19

PN | LOCAL NEWS

EARLY LEARNING AND CHILDCARE CENTRE SURROUNDED BY SEA AND CITY Nestled in the vibrant seaside community of Herne Bay, Tiny Voices is a privately owned and operated early learning and childcare centre for tamariki aged two to five years. Housed in a beautiful, original schoolhouse, our centre offers a warm, welcoming, homely environment where children feel a sense of belonging and are encouraged to learn, grow and thrive. Our inviting outdoor spaces provide endless opportunities for play, exploration and discovery, where tamariki can connect with nature and take part in caring for our garden. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we offer a beautiful, homely environment where we value the uniqueness of every child and believe that meaningful learning happens through play, curiosity and connection. Our thoughtfully prepared space encourages creativity, independence and a love of learning, while our intentional teaching moments support each child’s individual interests, strengths and development. At Tiny Voices, we are passionate about creating a place where tamariki feel safe, valued and inspired every day. We respect tamariki as confident and competent learners and communicators. We encourage their sense of belonging and knowledge of their community by offering regular excursions within the community. We look forward to welcoming your whānau into our community and being part of your child’s early learning journey.”

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T: 09 973 4091, hernebay@tinyvoices.co.nz www.tinyvoices.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

KID’S SUMMER READING

With its delightful text and imaginative storytelling, Once Upon a Harbour is an exciting and inventive read that breaks all the moulds. Its gorgeous illustrations are works of art: richly detailed, exuberant and playful. There are six different stories to enjoy. From a story about a couple of monsters who like dressing up, to a story about a clever little pig who saves her brothers and sisters from a mean wolf these are stories that will be read over and over again! A fantastic book to read aloud with children. Ages 2-7 Kiki and Me by Leo Timmers (Gecko Press) $37.99

This stunning, large-format story about the bond between a horse and her owner as she grows up is a landmark picture book for international award winner Leo Timmers. The relationship between Kiki and her horse is told from the horse’s point of view. At first all is well. Kiki and her horse explore the landscape together and are inseparable. But Kiki grows older and things change. One day, the horse is alone and thinks it will be forever. Delicate black-and-white drawings alternate with rich, dramatic paintings to tell a poignant story about inseparable friends and growing up. Ages 4-8 The Star Path by Witi Ihimaera Smiler (Penguin Random House) $34.99

Sweeping from France to French Polynesia, Aotearoa and Antarctica, The Star Path is a breathtaking new novel in which myth and reality, past and present, meet in an unforgettable story of identity, belonging and hope. Set in the world of The Whale Rider, we meet 16-year-old Teva. Raised in France, he knows almost nothing of his father's Polynesian heritage — only that a family rift has kept them apart. But when his astonishing talent is discovered by a circus master, Teva's journey leads him across the Pacific and towards a destiny older than memory. Deep within Antarctica's treacherous ice mazes, the royal tribe of Mysticeti whales fears their ancient leader has brought them there to die. As winter closes in, they must find the whale rider's heir, the only one who can lead their chief back to warmer waters. But nobody knows who that is, let alone where they can be found. Ages 13+ Pocket Observology by Giselle Clarkson (Gecko Press) $27.99

Slip this practical field guide out of your pocket to identify, measure, compare or find clues to the things you encounter

every day in nature. Use it to identify whether you've found a bee or wasp, centipede or millipede, moth or butterfly. Compare shapes of seeds, leaves and feathers to deduce their origin. Notice snail trails and make discoveries by turning over a leaf. Learn how to observe — listen, look, record and collect. With its how-to guides, comic illustrations, weatherproof cover and built-in, useful tools this handy guide will enliven every expedition. Every young and notso-young observologist and omnibirder can slip this guide in their pocket and set out on small scientific outings every day. Ages 7 and up

PN | LOCAL NEWS

Once Upon a Harbour by Fiona Farrell and David Elliott (Allen & Unwin) $35

The Big Book of Kiwi Nursery Rhymes by Kimberly Andrews (Walker Books) $29.99

This beautifully illustrated hardback is based on 42 well-known and not so well-known nursery rhymes. The difference is that the rhymes now feature birds and animals from Aotearoa NZ. The teddy bear in 'Round and Round the Garden' becomes Kārearea (NZ Falcon). 'Pussycat, Pussycat where have you been' becomes 'Kororā, Kororā where have you been' and so on. Even if you don't know the nursery rhyme tunes, this is a fun way to learn to recognise the birds and animals that are so familiar to us and to help remember their te reo names. Ages 1-5 The Protector of Beyond by Shara Curlett (Penguin Random House) $24

Elder touches the Oath stone and there is an almighty spark. Suddenly she finds herself in the place she least wants to be — Beyond. They are told that those who spark are privileged and get to go to Beyond to protect the world from monsters who have been battling war on the world for generations. But things are not as Elder expects in Beyond. The new trainees have a tough regime. Her long-lost sister disowns her, and her own spark is wild and seemingly uncontrollable. NZ author Curlett has done a great job of world building in this fantasy story. There are flying mythical beasts that match with the Rooks (trainees). There are trials to go through and relationships to navigate. A fabulous start to a new and exciting series. Ages 8-12 THE DOROTHY BUTLER BOOKSHOP, 1 Jervois Road, Ponsonby T: 09 376 7283, Email: shop@dorothybutler.co.nz, www.dorothybutler.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 21

PN | LOCAL NEWS

WASTE WATER Auckland’s next major wastewater tunnel project has reached a significant milestone, with a 56.5 metre tower crane now installed to help construct infrastructure that will significantly reduce wet-weather overflows into the Waitematā Harbour. The crane has been installed for Watercare’s $260 million Herne Bay Collector project, which will connect to the Central Interceptor and capture wet-weather overflows for treatment rather than allowing them to enter the environment. Delivered by Italian tunnelling specialist Ghella, the 1.7 kilometre-long, 2.1 metre-diameter wastewater tunnel will play a key role in improving water quality in the Waitematā Harbour and surrounding coastal areas. Waitematā Local Board Chair Alexandra Bonham says the project represents a major step forward for the area's environmental health. “The Herne Bay Collector will deliver significant environmental benefits, helping to reduce wetweather overflows and improve the health of the Waitematā Harbour. The work in Herne Bay will cause some disruption and we are grateful for the community’s patience. We are all looking forward to the long-term benefits this infrastructure will provide, including improved water quality and cleaner, more swimmable beaches for the community.”

tower crane will be critical to delivering the project. “The control chamber will act as a gateway between the Herne Bay Collector and the Central Interceptor, helping direct wastewater and stormwater flows for treatment instead of allowing them to overflow into the harbour. “The tower crane gives us the lifting capability we need to construct this infrastructure safely and efficiently. It will be used to lower reinforcing steel, formwork and other construction materials into the excavation as the chamber is built from the bottom up. “It will also help install major pipes and precast concrete structures weighing up to 24 tonnes, reducing our reliance on temporary mobile cranes while improving productivity and accessibility, reducing noise and vibration and enhancing safety on site.” Taylor says the crane installation marks an important milestone as construction gathers pace.

Herne Bay’s combined wastewater and stormwater network was historically designed to overflow during heavy rainfall events to help protect homes and businesses from flooding.

“With the Central Interceptor now in service, the Herne Bay Collector is the next major step in transforming how Auckland manages wastewater during wet weather.

The Herne Bay Collector will capture these overflows and divert them to the Central Interceptor instead of the harbour.

“By combining world-class tunnelling expertise, modern construction methods and long-term planning, we’re delivering infrastructure that will provide environmental benefits for decades to come.

The project includes seven main shafts, three intermediate shafts and a seven-storey underground control chamber beneath Point Erin Park. The chamber will connect the Herne Bay Collector to the northern end of the Central Interceptor and help direct wastewater flows for treatment during wet weather. Watercare Waitematā Water Quality Improvement programme director Morris Taylor says the newly installed

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“We thank the community for their patience. We know projects of this scale can affect day-to-day life, and we’re committed to keeping the community informed and minimising disruption wherever possible. The result will be lasting improvements to the health of the Waitematā Harbour and a stronger wastewater network for future generations.” www.watercare.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

11 FIRES AT RECYCLING FACILITY Lithium-ion batteries found in everyday items such as phones, laptops, power tools, toys, vapes and rechargeable household devices can catch fire if they are crushed or damaged during collection and sorting. Yet the same batteries that pose a fire risk when disposed of incorrectly also contain valuable materials that can be recovered through specialist recycling. Auckland Council General Manager Waste Solutions Justine Haves says many electronic items still have value long after they've been replaced by newer models. “Too often, people think of old electronics as rubbish when they could still be repaired, refurbished or reused. And if a device has reached the end of its life, specialist recyclers can recover valuable materials that would otherwise be lost.” Keeping batteries and e-waste out of kerbside collections protects people, property and recycling infrastructure says Ms Haves. “A single battery in the wrong place can cause significant damage and put workers and facilities at risk.

safely assess electronics for reuse and ensure materials are recovered when products can no longer be repaired.” When lithium-ion batteries are recycled, the valuable minerals inside them are concentrated into a material known as black mass. Those minerals can then be recovered and used to make new batteries and other products.

PN | LOCAL NEWS

Aucklanders are being urged to keep batteries and electronic devices out of kerbside bins ahead of International E-Waste Day on 14 October, after batteries were linked to at least 11 fires at Auckland's recycling facility and 17 rubbish and recycling truck fires in the past year.

“In effect, yesterday's phone or drill battery can help provide the raw materials for tomorrow's battery,” says Ms Haves. International E-Waste Day, held annually on 14 October, highlights the importance of repairing, reusing and recycling electronic products rather than throwing them away. Haves says International E-Waste Day is a timely reminder for Aucklanders to clear out unwanted electronics and make sure they are handled safely and responsibly. “Whether it's an old mobile phone, laptop, charger, power tool or rechargeable battery, the best place for it is with a specialist reuse or recycling service, not in your kerbside bin.” Aucklanders can find more local battery and e-waste dropoff options on the Auckland Council website.

“The good news is Aucklanders have options. Organisations such as Recycle A Device, Abilities and Echo Tech can

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 23

PN | LOCAL NEWS

NEWS FROM KELMARNA FARM In the run up to summer, Kelmarna is holding an exciting challenge: Connect to Your Kai — a hands-on journey of growing, sourcing, preparing and sharing climate friendly kai. Want to be part of your local food systems but don't know where to start? Sign up to this challenge and across November you’ll receive a weekly email filled with tips and resources to help you grow your connection to local food. This is free to join, and everyone who signs up goes in the draw to win one of 5 Kelmarna veggie boxes! Kelmarna will also host a variety of three-hour workshops (10am – 1pm) running on consecutive Sunday mornings, as a more practical opportunity to engage in the weekly theme. Tickets for all workshops use a pay what you can model. Connect to Your Kai Workshop Series

Grow: Long time Kelmarna Market Gardener Sarah MossBaker kicked off the series on 1 November with a practical guide to spring gardening in any space. Source: This workshop on 8 November is a hands-on cooking class incorporating whole food and garden-to-table principles: sourcing, preparing, cooking and sharing food created from fresh, seasonal produce. We’re excited to have Kevin Helas from the Wholefood Kitchen, who has trained under the guidance of some of the world's leading whole food and macrobiotic chefs. Prepare: Deep dive into the world of lacto-fermentation with passionate fermenter and social and food systems thinker Tom Scott on 15 November. Fermenting is one of the oldest and simplest methods of preserving food. Ferments extend the shelf life of fresh ingredients, maintain or improve

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nutrient availability and are good for your gut too. Tom will guide participants through the principles and practice of preparing kai through lacto-fermentation, exploring different fermentation styles, techniques and ingredients. Share: Discover the foundations of composting with Maddy Cull on 22 November, exploring different composting styles for different settings, materials and ingredients. Leader Maddy Cull is a thinker, grower and connector who believes the process of decay holds an opportunity for renewal, connection and collective care. She’ll share practical ways to use finished compost in your garden, as well as how to make compost teas. Maddy will then guide the group in building a static compost pile together – a monument to reciprocity! Celebrate: The fifth and final workshop on 29 November is time to celebrate ‘food at your fingertips’ with Whakatipu Mana Kai (a kōrero and potluck). Tai Wright and Christina van der Velde will share their story of how they came to undertake their annual Wero Kai – beginning with the inspiration to eat only food from their garden, the bush and the sea for one month. Don't be daunted, however. They will invite us into some simple actions we can take in our own busy lives to connect more deeply to the food systems that surround and sustain us. This kōrero is for anyone interested in ancestral ways of kai, local food and eating in community. Go to www.kelmarna.co.nz/connect-to-your-kai to sign up and find out more.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

DESLEY SIMPSON:

DEPUTY MAYOR OF AUCKLAND PN | LOCAL NEWS

I was recently asked during a panel discussion “Has Auckland got its mojo back?” When you look at the events the city has hosted in the past month, Olivia Dean, All Blacks, Black Caps, Silver Ferns, Diwali, Picasso designed by Paul Smith, to what we have to look forward to, Robbie Williams, Sculpture in the Gardens, Guns N' Roses (to name a few) the feeling of optimism in the city is hard to miss. The variety of events on our calendar gives Aucklanders a reason to get out and enjoy their city. Having attended a number of these events, and talking to many of my Ponsonby friends, everyone is feeling the buzz. This is not just about providing entertainment and bringing people into the region it is also creating opportunities for local businesses. Putting on my Value For Money Chair's hat, events not only enrich us but also inject a huge amount of money into our local economy (events through to March next year are expected to contribute $50m to the regional GDP). The newly opened CRL has been a gamechanger for getting around Auckland, improving connections and access. In its first month of operation, it carried two million passengers! It's been a big investment, but it is paying off big time. The city has just finished celebrating the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival, the city's iconic Festival of Lights. While the Mayor has been promoting Auckland offshore, I have had the honour and pleasure of attending many of the exciting events as Acting Mayor of Auckland. It is always a vibrant and wonderful celebration of culture. As well as Diwali, and sitting alongside the Black Caps v India cricket series, this month Auckland is hosting the New Zealand-India Business, Sport and Innovation Summit (12 and 13 Nov). Delivered by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited in partnership with Sport New Zealand, the Summit brings together influential leaders from business, government, sport and culture. This is a great time to celebrate our 175,000 — strong Indian community which plays an important role in our region's cultural and economic success and helps make Auckland the multicultural city we all love. The Summit programme explores everything from artificial intelligence and digital transformation to tourism, investment and the role of sport in driving economic sign up to get involved! www.nzindiasummit.com/registration

As this issue of Ponsonby News comes out, the election is just around the corner. Whatever the outcome it’s imperative local and central Government continue to closely work together. We all agree, when Auckland succeeds, New Zealand succeeds. We all want the same thing; to make this city the best it can be, a city that embraces the arts, culture and heritage, a city that is vibrant and safe and a city that is prosperous for all. Let's continue to be ambitious and positive. DESLEY SIMPSON, Deputy Mayor of Auckland www.desleysimpson.co.nz

*Census 2023

Riding a horse to school is rare today, though students occasionally do so in rural areas. Last Monday morning riding to school in Ponsonby! This pair stopped for a coffee at Brown Street Espresso.

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 25

PN | LOCAL NEWS

AUCKLAND ZOO AND RENOWNED LOCAL ARTIST TEAM UP TO HELP RARE TAONGA Auckland Zoo and renowned local glass artist Luke Jacomb are teaming up to grow awareness and support for Aotearoa New Zealand’s rarest endemic bird, the tara iti (New Zealand fairy tern). In a first, a tara iti is being added to Luke Jacomb Studio’s flock of native birds. The new addition from the artist and bird lover has been inspired by Auckland Zoo’s conservation mahi for this ‘Threatened, Nationally Critical’ taonga, which it carries out in partnership with the Department of Conservation. (The tara iti population numbers just 45-50 adult birds and 11 breeding pairs.)

For more information about Auckland Zoo’s role for tara iti (involving incubating, hatching, rearing and releasing chicks to the wild, and post-release monitoring) and its mahi for many other threatened taonga of Aotearoa, visit www.aucklandzoo.co.nz

From 15 October, visitors to the zoo’s physical and online shop can purchase a limited edition tara iti made in an exclusive sky blue colour (a light blue to reflect the bird’s coastal habitat and relationship with sea and sky) or choose from a selection of other tara iti in a variety of colours. “Auckland Zoo has always admired Luke Jacomb’s work and this is the perfect fledgling collaboration to launch his wide range of glass birds and insects in our shop,” says Auckland Zoo’s shop manager, Claire Gellatly. For every glass tara iti sold by the zoo and through Luke Jacomb’s online store, $50 will directly support tara iti conservation. Additionally, profits from the rest of the Luke Jacomb Studio range sold by the zoo will go to supporting all of the zoo’s other conservation mahi that happens onsite, throughout Aotearoa and beyond. (The Luke Jacomb tara iti measures approximately 10 x 20 x 5cm and retails for $350.)

READ PONSONBY NEWS EMAG & NEWS ONLINE - 24/7 New stories updated daily. www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | LOCAL NEWS

FIVE WILD TABLES. UNEXPECTED PAIRINGS. BREAD THAT REFUSES TO RUSH. Life moves fast. Wildcraft doesn’t. And, for one day, we’re inviting Auckland to slow down with us. On Saturday 14 November, The Wild Table comes to Ponsonby for a free tasting experience that puts bread at the centre of the table. For one day, Studio230 will be reclaimed by the wild with five immersive tasting worlds to explore, from a wildflower meadow and berry patch to a vegetable garden, the seaside and a bakery.

Visitors will also take home Wildcraft loaves and Tushar’s recipe cards so they can get a little wild in their own kitchens.

Guests can follow their appetite through unexpected pairings created by chef Tushar Grover of Rhu, from whipped ricotta and garden vegetables to seafood-inspired creations and indulgent butters. There’s plenty to tear into with Wildcraft’s Oat with Honey & Spelt and Kibbled Grains & Seeds loaves inviting a little experimentation.

What: Where: Auckland When: Tasting sessions*: Free entry:

Behind it all is a bread range that refuses to rush. Wildcraft is made using a dough that’s slow fermented for 24 hours to develop deeper, more complex flavours. Turns out, waiting tastes pretty good.

The listing details: The Wild Table by Wildcraft Studio230, 230 Ponsonby Road, Saturday 14 November 2026 10–10.30am, 11–11.30am, 12–12.30pm and 1–1.30pm

www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/the-wild-table-experienceby-wildcraft/auckland

*Limited spots are available, with entry on a first come, first served basis.

THINK GLOBAL. SUPPORT LOCAL. ACT LOCAL. LOVE LOCAL. PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 27

U3A PONSONBY PN | LOCAL NEWS

A DIVER’S DIVERSE VIEW OF NATURE: KENNEDY WARNE Ponsonby U3A members were treated to an enchanting presentation by Kennedy Warne who shared his amazing collection of stories and photos from a lifetime spent observing nature in both marine and terrestrial environments. The pictorial presentation was accompanied by a matching poetic dialogue which included extracts from his book ‘Soundings’, which charmed the audience of over 100 Ponsonby U3A members. The term Soundings neatly expresses both the nautical need to define the depth of water as well as man's need to test ideas and seek knowledge. Kennedy began his life history by describing his family’s background in Saint Marys Bay where his grandfather was associated with boat building before establishing a boat building company at Matauwhi Bay near Russell in the Bay of Islands, where he had a strong association with the big game fishing industry and the legendary Zane Grey. Kennedy was exposed to these memorable aquatic adventures from an early age but his first interest in underwater adventures began with viewing the 1956 film 'The Silent World'. This film described in detail the exploits of Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the inventor of the first selfcontained underwater breathing apparatus – the aqualung. Kennedy described his own first scuba-diving experience as being comparable to an episode in the epic movie 'The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe'. Entering the marine world with an aqualung was to Kennedy an experience that was comparable to passing through the wardrobe into the world of Narnia. I think that many of us have had similar such experiences. To view the silent and totally different marine world and life forms through a mask or goggles has always captivated many of the U3A audience. Comparisons were also drawn regarding timetables and inventions linking the development of the aqualung to the early years of space exploration during the 1950s and 1960s. Following a University of Auckland course in marine biology under Professor John Morton, Kennedy initially embarked on a career in journalism by working for a friend’s newspaper. He then switched direction by co-founding and becoming the first editor of New Zealand Geographic magazine in the early 1980s. This indirectly led to contracts with the international National Geographic Magazine resulting in a legacy of over 50 years of exploration and photography. Kennedy has undertaken adventurous travel throughout most of the world’s marine and terrestrial environments. The Ponsonby U3A audience was taken into the marine world around Africa, the Pacific, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Canada, the Middle East and the Mediterranean where Kennedy has dived with a very wide diversity of marine creatures. His descriptions and facts and figures were delightfully interspersed with poetic texts which are possibly taken from his book ‘Soundings'. The Arctic, near Arctic and Antarctic have also not escaped his camera and the St Lawrence Seaway was the scene of many beautiful photos. Kennedy has also worked extensively in both estuarine and terrestrial settings within the deltas, lakes and waterways around the world. His slide pack included many stunning examples of both flora and fauna in the fragile Okavango Delta in Botswana which is a landlocked basin within the Kalahari Desert.

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Kennedy’s contracts with the National Geographic magazine have not only focussed on the successes, but also the disasters within the marine environment. The coastlines of the Arab States are one such example where formerly highly productive fishing grounds and turtle breeding habitats are currently being recovered. Unfortunately, throughout the world. Kennedy acknowledges the current disasters relating to over-exploitation and/or environmental issues are far too many. U3A Ponsonby’s next meeting will be: DATE:

13 November 2026

TOPIC:

AN ECONOMIST’S VIEWPOINT

SPEAKER:

SHAMUBEEL EAQUB

VENUE:

Herne Bay Petanque Club, Salisbury Reserve, Salisbury Street, Herne Bay

ENQUIRIES:

Duncan Loney, President, Ponsonby U3A www.u3a.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | LOCAL NEWS

NEWS FROM THE LEYS LITTLE LIBRARY Kia ora, Here we are near the end of another year. The last few months always seem to pass by in a blur and before you know it, it’s time to wish everyone a happy 2027. And, because the holiday season isn’t too far away, for this newsletter we’re encouraging you to organise your summer reads. On a different note, we also have some official messaging on the progress of the original Leys Library building.

On to something completely different. We have lots of enquiries from our community regarding the original Leys building. Here is a statement on the building progress:

Holidays are a fantastic opportunity to catch up on all the books you didn’t have time to read during the year. Now is a great time to request books to ensure they arrive in December. Or, if you don’t get around to requesting books, it’s worth checking out our Bestie collection closer to the time of your holiday. Besties are Auckland Libraries’ latest and most popular books, ready to be read straight away. You can borrow for two weeks, without any renewals – ideal for shorter holidays.

The work includes structural strengthening, fire safety and accessibility upgrades, renewal of building services, heritage restoration and improvements to external areas and facilities.

Another option for holiday reading is our digital platform, Libby. You can borrow e-material like books, audio books and magazines. This can be extremely useful if you’re going overseas and don’t want the weight and responsibility of physical books. You can also download the titles on to your device before your trip if you won’t have internet access.

We hope you have a great November. Pop in and say ‘Hi’ and remember we are happy to help you organise your holiday reads.

Lastly, did you know you can also borrow board games? Choose from classics like Catan, Wingspan and Ticket to Ride plus many more, all available for request via the Auckland Libraries’ catalogue. There are a few stipulations: you can borrow one game at a time, you must have an adult membership and the returned games must be neatly packed with all the pieces.

Auckland Council is undertaking the Leys Institute Comprehensive Redevelopment Project from November 2026 to Q2 2028.

The car park behind the Leys Institute Library will be closed to the public from 1 November 2026. For more information, please visit the Auckland Council website.

Hours: Monday - Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-4pm Sunday Closed LEYS INSTITUTE LITTLE LIBRARY, 14 Jervois Road, T: 09 377 0209, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz leysinstitutelibraryponsonby@aklc.govt.nz

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PN | OP ED

THE HĀKAIMANGŌ-MATIATIA (NW WAIHEKE) MARINE RESERVE MIKE LEE:

An idea whose time has come? A couple of weeks ago I returned from overseas to find the general election campaign in full swing. What struck me was the sheer cornucopia of policy announcements, election promises coming from all sides on an almost daily basis - and about everything under the sun. How many of those promises will ever be kept is another question. This being said, I was certainly very interested in one such announcement. This from prime minister Christopher Luxon on 10 October, flanked by several of his ministers addressing a raft of policies aimed to better protect the Hauraki Gulf. This included among other things a pledge to approve the Hākaimangō-Matiatia (NW Waiheke) marine reserve application. There is a backstory to this and here I will summarise it. In February 2021, I was elected chair of the conservation group, Friends of the Hauraki Gulf (Inc), which like a lot of Aucklanders and other people living around the Gulf was (and is) deeply concerned about the state of the Gulf’s marine environment. In my experience the public is way ahead of the political class when it comes to this issue. In the face of years of official inaction we resolved to apply for a marine reserve ourselves, an initiative we were qualified to undertake under the Marine Reserves Act. As the basis of the application we selected an area off the northwest of Waiheke, the best of five surveyed by marine biologist Tim Haggitt in 2016 at the request of the Waiheke Local Board. With extraordinary natural values and spanning 2,350 hectares it would be the largest marine reserve in the Gulf. Working flat out, we completed a 72-page application report in seven weeks. On 23 April 2021 the application report was sent to the Department of Conservation’s DirectorGeneral and to the Ngāti Paoa Trust Board and the Ngāti Paoa Iwi Trust. Three weeks later we released it to the general public and working with DOC began seven months of prenotification consultation with interested parties. On 20 January 2022, under the auspices of DOC the application was publicly notified nationwide. Over the twomonth notification period it drew c1300 submissions. The result was remarkable - 93% in support and 7% opposed.

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Of the submitters identifying as Māori 70% were in favour, as was the Ngāti Paoa Trust Board and the local Piritahi Marae. The Ngāti Paoa Iwi Trust was opposed and adamantly remains so. After that we had a month to respond to individual objectors. So we spent a very busy Easter completing a 120page ‘Response to Objectors’ document to meet the statutory deadline. DOC then began a review of the application. This took them 30 months. In late November 2024 the result of DOC’s review and its advice were passed to the new Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka. Under the Act it is up to the minister to make the final decision after consultation with the Ministers of Fisheries and Transport. Given the minister was new to the job we gave him several months leeway before following up. We were originally given a decision timeline (by DOC) of ‘late April to late May (2025)’ but instead for almost two years, the minister evidently just sat on it. Requests for him to make public the all-important DOC advice have also been regularly declined. We waited until August this year before deciding to proceed on two fronts. The first, a lawyer’s letter to Mr Potaka foreshadowing High Court proceedings with a statement of claim, under the Judicial Review Procedure Act, to require him to complete his statutory obligations. The second, to lodge a formal complaint to the Ombudsman’s office about the minister’s continued refusal to release the DOC advice which we understand supports approving the reserve. The prime minister’s announcement came three weeks after our lawyer’s letter. Mr Luxon is to be congratulated for his intervention. After five years of official stonewalling this has to be a turning point. But governments are judged by their attainments – not their promises. New Zealand was once an acknowledged leader in marine protection, but we have now fallen well behind. The Hauraki Gulf is under enormous pressure from a range of impacts but notably from overfishing. Even now still less than 1% of the Gulf is fully protected in no-take (for everyone) marine reserves. We are determined to see this through – whatever it takes and whoever is in government after the election. PN (MIKE LEE)  www.mikelee.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | LOCAL NEWS

KEN RING:

WEATHER BY THE MOON

AUCKLAND WEATHER DIARY, NOVEMBER 2026 November may bring less than average rain and sunshine and below average temperatures. The first week may be the wettest with the lowest pressures, the second week is changeable,and the third week may have the least sunshine hours. The fourth week may be sunniest with the highest pressures.

For gardeners, while the waning moon does not coincide with descension this month, planting is best on 10th-12th (waxing moon ascending). For preserving and longer shelf-life, harvest crops or flowers on the neap tides of the 3rd and 18th.

The best weekend for outdoor activities may be 21st/22nd. The barometer may average around 1018mbs.

Allow 24-hour error for all forecasting. (KEN RING)

For fishermen, the highest tides are on the 26th. The best fishing bite times in the east may be around dusk of 8th10th and 24th-26th. Bite chances are also good around lunchtimes of 1st-3rd and 16th-18th.

For future weather for any date, and the 2027 NZ Weather Almanac, see www.predictweather.com. (KEN RING)  PN For future weather for any date, and the 2027 NZ Weather Almanacs, see www.predictweather.com

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

20 Years’ Expert Espresso Machine Servicing Rocket, VBM, ECM, La Pavoni & more. Fast, fair, guaranteed. Pick-up & return. Plus: Katipo small-batch coffee.

housecoffee.co.nz | housecoffee@xtra.co.nz | 021 842 319

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 31

PN | LOCAL NEWS

THE BURGER HELPING FUND FIORDLAND CONSERVATION ONE BITE AT A TIME BurgerFuel is turning one of New Zealand’s biggest conservation challenges into its wildest burger yet. On the menu from 3 November, the limited-edition Wild & Wagyu combines ethically recovered venison from Fiordland National Park with premium New Zealand Wagyu in a rich, juicy patty designed to bring wild venison to more Kiwi diners.

Minister for Hunting & Fishing James Meager early this year) helps protect precious native ecosystems across more than 190,000 hectares of Fiordland National Park – an area equivalent to around 190,000 rugby fields.

Developed in partnership with New Zealand wild venison company WITHWILD and the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation, the burger uses wild venison recovered through the foundation's long-running deer management programme.

WITHWILD funds the recovery of the venison and returns proceeds to support the foundation's ongoing conservation work. BurgerFuel will also donate $1 from every Wild & Wagyu sold, to the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation and The Fiordland Project, helping extend conservation efforts across the wider park.

Introduced deer pose an ongoing threat to Fiordland's native forests, browsing young plants and preventing the regeneration of native ecosystems. Working alongside the foundation, WITHWILD ethically recovers the venison, giving the meat a second life as a premium food product that helps fund future conservation work. Donald Shepherd, co-founder of WITHWILD, says the partnership is helping change perceptions of wild venison. "Wild venison is one of New Zealand's best-kept food secrets, but most Kiwis rarely get the chance to eat it. This partnership gives more people the opportunity to experience an incredible local protein while helping protect one of our most iconic landscapes. "We've always believed conservation and great food can go hand in hand. If we're managing these animals to protect Fiordland, we should be making the best possible use of that meat, not letting it go to waste. Every Wild & Wagyu burger sold helps give back to the place it came from, and that's a win for everyone.” Established in 1993, the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation's deer management programme, including New Zealand's first 'Herd of Special Interest' Wapiti (as announced by the

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

Head of Marketing at BurgerFuel, Nikki Soons says Wild & Wagyu is proof that great food can make a meaningful contribution to conservation."We're incredibly proud to have helped raise more than $100,000 for the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation through our previous Wild Heart burger. Wild & Wagyu is the next evolution of that story. "We’ve loved the challenge of taking an ingredient that's often overlooked and turning it into something seriously delicious. By combining wild venison with the rich flavour profile of New Zealand Wagyu, the aim is to introduce more Kiwis to just how exceptional wild venison can taste while supporting the conservation work happening in Fiordland.” The custom Wild & Wagyu patty is layered with creamy melted brie, sweet poached New Zealand pears, toasted almonds and fresh rocket, then finished with BurgerFuel Plum Sauce and BurgerFuel Aioli. It’s available for a limited time from 3 November at BurgerFuel restaurants nationwide, priced at $23. www.burgerfuel.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | LOCAL NEWS

38,000 MORE HOMES POSSIBLE IF PROPOSED PLANNING RULE CHANGES ARE ADOPTED Proposed changes to Plan Change 120 could result in around 38,000 additional homes across Auckland over the next decade if adopted, according to new analysis from Auckland Council’s Chief Economist Unit. Using the Auckland Housing Supply Model, the analysis examined how the revised proposal could influence future housing supply compared with the current Auckland Unitary Plan settings.

"The value of the model is that it helps moves the discussion beyond theoretical development capacity and towards estimating what housing outcomes may occur under different planning scenarios."

The revised Plan Change 120 proposal focuses additional housing capacity in places with good access to jobs, services and public transport. This includes around the city centre, metropolitan and town centres, rapid transit stations and frequent transit routes within 10 kilometres of the city centre, the region’s highest-density employment centre.

The modelling suggests increased housing supply could also help ease future affordability pressures.

Chief Economist Gary Blick says the modelling points to a substantial increase in housing supply if the proposed planning changes are adopted. "Auckland now has nearly a decade of evidence under the Auckland Unitary Plan. That experience helps us better understand how housing supply may respond to future planning changes. The revised proposal is forecast to increase housing supply by around 36 per cent, equivalent to approximately 38,000 additional homes over 10 years, compared with the operative plan.” The analysis forecasts an average of 14,300 new homes a year under the revised proposal, compared with 10,500 homes a year under current planning settings. The growth is expected in areas with strong demand and good transport connections. “The proposal would enable more homes in locations that are already well connected to employment, services and public transport. That gives more people the opportunity to live close to the places they need to go every day,” says Blick.

“When housing supply can respond more readily to demand, it helps reduce upward pressure on house prices. Our estimates suggest prices could be around 3 to 5 per cent lower than they otherwise would be,” he says. Mr Blick adds that the benefits could extend beyond housing, with more residents living closer to jobs and services supporting a more productive city. “The location of housing matters. Enabling more homes in accessible locations can improve connections between workers, jobs and services, supporting productivity and making better use of existing infrastructure.” The analysis estimates Auckland’s regional GDP could be 0.2 to 0.5 per cent higher after 10 years under the revised proposal. The report concludes there is greater confidence in the direction of change: housing supply is expected to be higher, more homes are likely to be built in accessible locations, and pressure on house prices could be lower than under the current planning rules. The consultation stage for proposed changes to PC120 is complete, and the next stage is the Independent Hearings Panel hearing public submissions. Read more on OurAuckland PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 33

WO R K I N G S T Y L E .CO. N Z

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES:

There have been a few important changes to KiwiSaver over the past year.

There is also now an income limit. Anyone with annual taxable income over $180,000 is not entitled to the Government contribution.

None fundamentally change how KiwiSaver works, but they do affect what comes out of an employee's pay, what employers need to contribute and how much support people receive from the Government.

For many people, the Government top-up is now considerably smaller, but it is still worth making sure you are contributing enough to receive what you are entitled to.

For most employees, the most noticeable change arrived on 1 April 2026, when the standard KiwiSaver contribution rate increased from 3% to 3.5%. The minimum compulsory employer contribution also increased to 3.5%. If you were already contributing at 4%, 6%, 8% or 10%, nothing changed. For people on the standard rate, slightly more is now going into KiwiSaver from each pay. There is some flexibility if the additional cost is difficult. Employees can apply for a temporary reduction back to 3% for between three and 12 months. An employer can also choose to reduce its contribution to 3% while that temporary reduction applies. From 1 April 2028, the standard employee rate and minimum compulsory employer contribution will increase again to 4%. One point sometimes overlooked is that employer KiwiSaver contributions are subject to employer superannuation contribution tax, or ESCT. So although the employer contribution may be calculated at 3.5%, the amount reaching the employee's KiwiSaver account will generally be lower after tax. Government contribution has reduced

Since 1 July 2025, the Government has contributed 25 cents for every $1 an eligible KiwiSaver member contributes, down from 50 cents previously. The maximum annual contribution is now $260.72. To receive the full amount, an eligible member needs to contribute at least $1042.86 during the KiwiSaver year from 1 July to 30 June.

Changes for younger workers

PN | PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS

KIWISAVER CHANGES IN 2026: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

From 1 April 2026, employers generally have to make compulsory KiwiSaver contributions for eligible employees aged 16 and 17. Previously, compulsory employer contributions generally did not start until age 18. Government contributions are also now available from age 16, subject to the usual eligibility rules. That can make a meaningful difference over time. An extra two years of employer and Government contributions has a long period to compound before retirement. What should you do?

It is worth checking what contribution rate you are currently on, particularly if you haven't looked at it for some time. Employers should also make sure their payroll systems are applying the correct rates and that eligible 16 and 17-yearold employees are being treated correctly. If cash flow is tight, don't simply stop contributing without looking at the alternatives. The temporary 3% rate reduction may be useful, and for eligible members it is still worth understanding how much needs to be contributed to receive the available Government contribution. KiwiSaver remains a long-term savings scheme, so small changes to contribution rates can become reasonably significant over a number of years. Disclaimer – While all care has been taken, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the content of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.

JOHNSTON ASSOCIATES, Level 1, One Jervois Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 361 6701, www.johnstonassociates.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 35

ISABEL ESTATE TASTING AT RETURN RESTAURANT PONSONBY

PHIL PARKER: PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

Recently, I was treated to a tasting of Isabel Estate wines from Marlborough, at Return Restaurant in Ponsonby Road. Each wine was matched with superb cuisine by chef Matt Lambert. Award-winning winemaker Jeremy McKenzie generously hosted the tastings. It was a great evening for me, joined by some of NZ’s leading hospo and wine industry folk. Isabel Estate was established in 1980, with a focus on chardonnay, which was very unusual at the time given the obsession with sauvignon blanc in the region. Subsequently, Isabel Estate's chardonnay has picked up accolades in NZ and internationally, including Wine of the Year in the 2025 London Wine Competition. On the night, we sampled four wines: a sauvignon blanc and three chardonnays. These were all stunning wines that I highly recommend. Isabel Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (organic) 2026

Shy on the nose, with hints of orange blossom and passionfruit. Soft acidity and ripe passionfruit with a tad of blackcurrant. Lengthy, tangy finish. 13% ABV      Isabel Estate Marlborough Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2025

Flinty and slightly funky, with yeasty brioche and toasty oak. Nectarine stone fruit and medium soft acids. 80% Mendoza clone.      Isabel Estate Marlborough Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2025

100% wild ferment, ie, natural vineyard and winery yeasts. Medium acidity with a hint of funky minerality. Popcorn, ripe canned peach and apricot. All Mendoza clone chardonnay. Lengthy generous palate.      Isabel Estate Marlborough Aratoro Chardonnay (organic) 2024

Again, 100% Mendoza. Fermented in a mix of 500L oak puncheons and 500L amphorae. Crisp and youthful with grapefruit acidity.      I had the chance to interview Jeremy McKenzie and ask him a few questions. Given climate change affecting grape growing in Marlborough, do you see challenges ahead?

Marlborough as a growing region is well placed in the advent of climate change and the appropriate viticulture to combat this.

Chef Matt Lambert, Jeremy McKenzie and Barbara Lambert

In many aspects the region is certainly still cool, we may see some heat swings on certain days, but we aren’t seeing excessive temperatures in the high 30s (that many other regions around the world are facing) which would impart a style change due to the loss of flavour and acidity. The funky ‘reductive’ chardonnay style has made its mark on the NZ wine scene. Has it peaked yet? Or do you see it as an ongoing alternative to the commercial yeast ferment style?

I think that the element of integrated flinty tones with lovely fruit, as opposed to reductive, is seen in many of the top chardonnays around the world that are made with low intervention, gently pressed cloudy juice, native yeast and French oak barrel fermentation – this is common whether from top burgundy, Margaret River, Santa Rita Hills or Marlborough. How important is organic winemaking to your work at Isabel Estate?

We look at our Isabel Vineyard operation with a holistic view on farming. We are now over a third farmed organically and the balance sustainably, so a mixed approach which works well. We are also estate grown and estate bottled, very circular in our process so provenance and a small carbon footprint are also key to us. (PHIL PARKER)  PN www.finewinetours.co.nz, phil.parker@xtra.co.nz

FINE WINE & FOOD TOURS Your host, Phil Parker, wine writer

· Boutique tours to Waiheke Island & Kumeu · Bespoke Fun Wine quizzes by arrangement E: phil.parker@xtra.co.nz

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

www.finewinetours.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

At the Smitea stall, a cup of tea is more than a drink. For Sri Balaras, it is an invitation to pause, connect and bring a little intention into a busy day. Where did you grow up?

I was born in Sri Lanka and moved to New Zealand when I was nine. My father came first because of the civil war and, after a couple of years, sponsored Mum and us to join him. I did all my schooling here and went to university here.

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

FACES AT GREY LYNN FARMERS MARKET – SRI BALARAS

Now you have your own family – how did you meet your wife?

I’ve known Nilani since we were very young – our parents were friends. We were childhood sweethearts and met up again at university. Now we have three young children and a tea business. What does tea mean to you?

It’s a strong link to my birthplace and tea is a big part of Sri Lankan culture. For us, tea is a family ritual. We gather at the start and the end of our day to connect over a strong cup of black tea. How did Smitea begin?

The name Smitea is inspired by Sanskrit and is meant to convey 'putting a smile on someone’s face'. My wife, Nilani, is the original visionary behind the brand, starting the business along with her brother and sister. What was her vision?

Nilani worked with tea houses in Australia to create blends that were more in the wellness space rather than just traditional black tea. They wanted to create something that carried that sense of ritual and meaningful connection, while exploring more adventurous wellness-focused blends. We wanted herbal teas that are genuinely delicious. Tell me about your tea blends.

We have five tea blends and a coffee blend. Enchanted Garden is our most popular – it is a masala-style chai with cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, ginger, ginkgo and lemon balm. Divine is my favourite. It has a distinctive bite on the tongue and includes adaptogens – tulsi, ashwagandha, shatavari and Siberian ginseng.

licensing and systems. At the same time, I was thinking a lot about stress and how difficult it can be to slow down, so that became part of the brand story too. Is that why the brand extended to include meditation sessions?

Yes. I run a one-hour session about once a month, usually at the Ponsonby Community Centre. We brew tea, using it as an anchor in a meditation practice that includes intention setting, visualisation and reflection. The aim is not religious. It is about making time to pause, reflect and reconnect with yourself and others. Why are markets important to Smitea?

I considered putting more energy into online sales, but that felt at odds with a brand built around community and connection. At the market, people can taste a blend, ask where the ingredients come from and have a real conversation. Grey Lynn Farmers Market customers value that genuine approach. What do you do when you are not working?

How did you become involved?

Life is full, revolving around our children and our tea business, but I also enjoy making Tamil short films and would love to spend more time on that creative work.

My university degree was in health sciences, so I was always interested. When we had our children, I stepped in to help with the operational side – food-import requirements, council

smitea.co.nz www.greylynnfarmersmarket.co.nz

Sunday mornings at the Grey Lynn Community Centre 510 Richmond Road PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 37

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

LIGHT, NOT LIGHTWEIGHT:

MEET DOWN LOW, A 3.8% ORGANIC WHITE WINE FOR SUMMER Marlborough winemakers Clive Dougall and Peter Lorimer have released Down Low Blanc, a certified organic white at 3.8% ABV, 70% lighter in alcohol than a standard 12.5% wine. Down Low Blanc is fresh and full of flavour: lemon, kawakawa and guava, with shimmering acidity and a moreish finish. It’s a white for long summer lunches, backyard barbecues and evenings that run later than planned. Light enough to lose count, delicious enough to mean it. Down Low Blanc 2026 (RRP $26) is out now at By the Bottle, Farro, Queens Wineshop and Caro’s in Auckland, Hamilton Beer & Wine Co and Moore Wilson’s in Wellington, and online at downlowwines.co.nz. It’s also pouring at Hotel Ponsonby, Amano, Soul, Lotties and Culprit in Auckland. The wine is certified organic, vegan friendly and low carb, with 0.2g of sugar per glass. Made using the traditional piquette method, it’s crafted by Deep Down, a B Corp certified winery founded in 2019 by Clive Dougall, former head winemaker at Seresin Estate and former chair of Organic Winegrowers NZ, and Peter Lorimer.

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

“This is our third vintage, first release,” says Clive Dougall. “There have been tears and tantrums getting the wine to hold its shape, and keeping it vibrant is a tightrope. We’ve finally landed, and our first edition is full, complex and joyful.” “Brewers have already proven lighter beer can be serious beer,” says Peter Lorimer. “We felt it was time for a wine to show up and offer the same: lighter, balanced, generous and honestly delicious. Down Low is fun and offers people flex to imbibe and wake fresh. High expression, low touch.” A whole 750ml bottle holds 2.2 standard drinks, roughly the same alcohol as two beers or two RTDs. Late nights. Fresh mornings. A Down Low rosé is in development for 2027. www.downlowwines.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

A FRESH TAKE ON HIGH TEA

Discover a new high tea experience at Park Hyatt Auckland, where seasonal flavours meet a gin-inspired twist.

Gather with friends, celebrate a special occasion or simply savour a moment overlooking Auckland's waterfront.

Enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of sweet and savoury creations, paired with a Harbour Breeze cocktail crafted with Cardrona Source Gin. Light, refreshing and elegantly balanced, it's the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon of indulgence.

Book your High Tea experience today

Available Thursday-Sunday, 12 noon - 3.30pm

PARK HYATT, 99 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, T: 09 366 1234, www.hyatt.com

Callum Liddicoat, Executive Pastry Chef, Park Hyatt and Ryan Kenny, Territory Sales Manager, Cardrona Distillery

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 39

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

TOM HISHON'S NEW BOOK 'GOOD MORNING' It all started in Ponsonby for you with Orphans Kitchen. What do you remember most fondly about those days, and how did they shape the way you cook today?

I would have to say the feeling of complete freedom to do what we wanted is pretty high on the list. Josh and I didn’t follow a rule book with Orphans Kitchen. It was really a true expression of who we were, our friendship and what we were interested in at the time. That was a huge part of the allure of it all. We could experiment, change things and follow our instincts without feeling like we had to fit into a particular mould. Ponsonby was an amazing place to do that, with a real sense of community around the restaurant. That freedom has stayed with me and is still very much my approach to cooking today. I like food to feel personal and intuitive rather than overly prescribed. Ponsonby locals might be particularly happy to see the famous Orphans Kitchen crumpets make a return in Good Morning. Why was it important to include them in the book?

The book wouldn’t have felt complete without the 'Crumpets with Rooftop Honey'. We served thousands of them over the 11 or so years we were open, and they somehow took on a personality of their own and developed a bit of a cult following. They’re quite different from a traditional crumpet. They’re twice baked, easy to make and perfect to serve at home for a large group. There’s also a lot of nostalgia attached to that recipe for me, and I know there is for many people who came to Orphans Kitchen over the years. Including them felt like bringing a little piece of that time into the book. You describe breakfast as the most generous meal of the day. What is it about breakfast that you love so much?

For me, it’s the small rituals and rhythms of breakfast. It can meet you wherever you are in the moment. I don’t tend to wake up particularly hungry, so I can listen to what my body needs and think about what I might make. I love those little morning rituals too. Making my coffee the same way each day, preheating my favourite cup with hot water before pouring in the coffee, and then the pre-kindy and school chaos with our girls happening around us. Breakfast can be incredibly simple or something you take your time over, and I like that flexibility. What did Christmas morning look like for you growing up, and are there any traditions or rituals from those Christmases that you’ve carried into your own family today?

Aside from all the usual Christmas traditions, after Christmas brunch we would have a competition to see who could spit a cherry stone the furthest. It’s very simple and slightly ridiculous, but those are often the traditions that stick. I’m happy to say the competition is still going strong. It’s become one of those little family rituals that connects Christmas now with the Christmases I remember growing up.

If someone unwraps Good Morning on Christmas morning, which three recipes would you tell them to make first?

I wouldn’t want to force any more food on anyone on Christmas Day! There’s also too much in the book to choose just three. I’d say look through it, have a read and see what catches your eye. Some dishes are really simple and can be prepared quickly, while others require a little more forward planning and time. I particularly love the condiments section. It’s the foundation for many of the recipes in the book and a great place to begin. Having a few really good condiments on hand can completely change the way you approach a meal, so I’d start there and let the rest follow naturally. QUICKFIRE Sweet or savoury?

Savoury. Your ultimate toast topping?

Buffalo curd, marmalade and Parmesan cheese. Coffee order?

Long black with a side of cream; post-lunch, an espresso. Breakfast in bed or at the table?

At the table or standing at the kitchen bench. One thing that’s always in your fridge?

Guindilla peppers. Your go-to breakfast when you’re short on time?

Toast. Favourite Ponsonby haunt?

Daily Bread!

Good Morning by Tom Hishon, available now.

40 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 41

SUPPER’S ON IN POINT CHEV: PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

WILKO’S OPENS 23 OCTOBER

Point Chevalier has never been short of places to get breakfast. Somewhere to settle in for the evening has been harder to find. From Friday 23 October, the suburb has Wilko’s. This bar, dining room and courtyard, at 157 Point Chevalier Road, is defining what a ‘Supper House’ is, building on the old English idea of supper and brought to life by owners who have spent their working lives in hospitality. The name was around long before the building. Wilko is the nickname James Wilkinson’s mates have called him since his rugby days in England, and it stuck so firmly that a night at James’s place became 'going to Wilko’s for dinner’. When it came time to name the venue, it seemed the obvious choice. The supper house has childhood origins too. “Supper’s what we called going round to a mate’s for dinner,” says James. “There’s no cuisine to it. Your mate’s mum could cook a pizza, or chicken and chips. Someone cooks, everyone sits round the table, and nobody’s in a hurry to leave. Wilko’s is going to be that, but with a proper kitchen behind it.

his view, is mostly the English having a go at French recipes. Then the Indian, Thai and a bit of everywhere influences have crept in on top. “There’s going to be a lot of technique thrown at things that look quite simple on a plate,” he says. On the opening menu, that means a duck skewer that runs the whole bird, breast, heart, liver and leg, threaded with cherries, glazed and cut with a sharp coriander gel. Lamb sweetbreads are marinated in tikka spices and fried until they eat like the best nuggets you’ve had, with a proper mint chutney and yoghurt. What Wilko’s won’t have is a signature dish. Hero dishes are earned, James says, by cooking something every day for years until the regulars won’t let you take it off. Wilko’s hasn’t had those years yet, so it will run a menu that heroes will come from instead: everything on it is good from start to finish, and anything that isn’t, comes off. “So, ask me again in four years.”

For James, that idea is already a familiar part of life. He regularly hosts dinner parties at home, bringing friends together over good food, wine and long evenings around the table. Wilko’s is, in many ways, an extension of what he’s always loved doing. As James puts it, going out for dinner usually means dressing up and heading into town. Coming round for supper means walking down the road in whatever you had on and finding two of your mates already at the bar. Hence the label of a ‘Supper House’, an eatery and drinking establishment with a different mindset from the usual ‘restaurant and bar’. From Yorkshire to Point Chev. James started cooking at 16 and spent nearly 10 years in North Yorkshire, learning his craft at the Feversham Arms in Helmsley before moving to the Michelin-starred Black Swan in Oldstead, where the lessons went deeper into where food comes from and why it’s cooked the way it is. He later made the move to New Zealand, where his career has included executive chef at Collective Hospitality, navigating the challenges of COVID, and general manager of Glasshouse. “I learned how to cook. I learned how to be creative. I learned how to run a business,” says James. “Then I just had to open one.” Joining him as a co-owner is Gareth Weaver. The two met through hospitality circles, and Gareth has spent years running front of house in higher-end restaurants where service is the entire point. Between the owners, there are more years of hospitality than any of them would admit to counting. Wilko’s brings those years together under one roof, with the freedom to create something entirely their own. Technique on simple plates. James calls the food that Wilko’s will serve European fusion. The base is Anglo-French, which he’ll tell you amounts to the same thing: English cooking, in

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

Sunday, properly. Sunday lunch is where Wilko’s wants to make its name first: big cuts carved for the table, all the sharing sides, bottles of wine going round, and a table for 12 at the centre of the dining room. Every good local in England, James says, has a table that turns up every Sunday. It’s that same tradition he wants to bring to Wilko’s, where Sunday lunch is less about rushing through a meal and more about gathering around the table with family and friends. At the bar, Guinness is poured as an imperial pint. The wine list was built by the owners in three tiers, from easy-drinking to serious, with a Coravin so the serious bottles can be poured by the glass. Cocktails are made fresh with nothing batched, and while the house list is staying under wraps until opening, the classics are there for anyone who asks. There’s also a big bottle of Lion Red waiting in the fridge for anyone who feels like a classic. The blue building. The building in its previous life had the famous blue paint job. What stands there now is a colour scheme that is far easier on the eye. Newly plastered walls in warm stone, tiled floors, polished timber and French doors are set across a bar, dining room and courtyard. Not to mention the golden light that will come from the view of the sun setting in the west. “We’ve spent a lot of time in the Med,” James admits, "an area of the world with a vibe that we love.” Locals first. The local connection matters just as much as what comes out of the kitchen, and it’s already under way.The first to join the Wilko’s team live just around the corner, and their extended families are already talking to other local families. “That spiderweb’s already starting to weave itself into the community, which is exciting,” says James. The service standard comes from the owners’ own best nights out. At Wilko’s, the first time you walk in, someone makes time for you. By the fourth visit, your pint will no doubt be poured

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

before you reach the bar. “When the food’s good, the service is great and you’re enjoying yourself, you don’t really want to leave,” says James. “That’s exactly how we want people to feel at Wilko’s.”

And when asked to finish the sentence, “Wilko’s is where you go when…” James doesn’t take long to answer. “When you’ve got nowhere else to be." WILKO'S, 157 Point Chevalier Road, T: 09 281 4949, www.wilkos.co.nz

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 43

PN | EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

Two iconic products. One untamed origin.

THE AOTEA COMPANY: ISLAND SPIRIT, Aotea SUMMER READY Great Barrier island.

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.

BARRIER BUZZ

A range of naturally sweetened sodas with Aotea mānuka honey. @drinkbarrierbuzz

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

44 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

STUMPY & CHOP

Premium mānuka and kānuka splits and chunks for superior BBQ smoking. Delivered to your door from Grey Lynn in time for summer.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January) www.theaoteacompany.co.nz

Photography: Babiche Martens

Photography: Babiche Martens

DINNER: Tuesday to Sunday from 5:30pm LUNCH: Saturday from 12 noon

Tuesday: Test Kitchen - $80pp Wednesday/Thursday: BYO & Duck Dinner for two - $95 + $25 corkage Friday: Steak Frites w Unlimited Truffle Fries - $49.50pp Sunday: Prix Fixe Menu - $75pp OPEN 7 DAYS! NEW tasting menus and Sommelier À la carte available MICHELIN Guide Award $75 Prix Fixe menu on Sunday & Monday

Highlighting the skills, knowledge, and passion of talented sommeliers in the industry, this year’s Sommelier Award is bestowed to Matthew Aitchison, General Manager and Sommelier Champagne Lunch bookings are now open - $120pp of The French Café, a MICHELIN Selected restaurant. Matthew 4-Course leads thelunch service a calm, relaxed and approachable style, underpinned withteam a glasswith of champagne on arrival & Saturday 12:00pm by strong organisation and deep wineFriday knowledge. Hisfrom passion for hospitality is reflected in carefully curated wine experiences and precise food pairings that elevate the meal. He has built one of the city’s most impressive SUMMER OPENING HOURS wine lists: broad in scope, thoughtfully Monday composed and especially strong by the glass. - Sunday 5:30pm - Late Friday & Saturday lunch 12:00pm - 3:00pm

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

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 45

PN | LIVING, THINKING + BEING

SARITA SOLVIG BLANKENBURG:

THE ART OF LIVING WELL Qigong: Finding Stillness Through Movement In our busy modern lives, we often wake up already thinking about everything we need to accomplish. Yet, imagine beginning your day differently with gentle movement, conscious breathing and a quiet connection to yourself and the energy around you. This is the essence of Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice that has been cultivated for thousands of years as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Pronounced ‘Chi Gong’, it combines flowing movements, breath awareness and meditation to cultivate and balance Qi, the vital life force believed to flow through all living things. Much like Prana in Ayurveda and Yoga, Qi represents the energy that sustains life. Although Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine developed independently, both recognise the importance of maintaining a harmonious flow of vital energy for physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Qigong is meditation in motion. Through slow, intentional movements and conscious breathing, we bring our awareness away from the constant activity of the mind and into the present moment. We reconnect with our bodies, feel grounded through our feet and open ourselves to the universal energy surrounding us. During my recent training in Bali, I experienced how beautifully Qigong complements Ayurvedic medicine, Yoga Therapy and somatic healing practices. One of the most valuable lessons was understanding how conscious movement, grounding and breath awareness can support nervous system regulation and help us reconnect with our inner selves. From an Ayurvedic perspective, Qi Gong is particularly beneficial for balancing Vata Dosha, which governs movement, the nervous system and mental activity. When Vata becomes aggravated, we may experience anxiety,

restlessness, scattered thoughts or disturbed sleep. Gentle, rhythmic movement combined with steady breathing can help cultivate calmness, stability and mental clarity. The morning is my favourite time to practise Qigong. Before engaging with the demands of the day, even 10 minutes can create a beautiful sense of inner alignment. Rather than immediately directing our energy outwards, we first nourish ourselves, allowing our energy to feel refreshed, uplifted and balanced. On Sunday, 8 November, I invite you to experience this beautiful practice at our Ayurveda Spring Reset Day Retreat at Kula Muriwai, overlooking Auckland's magnificent West Coast. Throughout the day, we will practise cleansing Yoga, explore Ayurveda and Panchakarma, enjoy a nourishing Ayurvedic vegetarian lunch and experience Qigong together. Weather permitting, our afternoon practise will unfold on the beautiful lawns overlooking the ocean, or inside Kula's stunning shala with its breathtaking views. Bring someone special and share this wonderful experience! Purchase one retreat ticket and receive your friend's ticket for half price using the code BRING A FRIEND.

Whether with a friend, partner or sibling, this is an opportunity to reconnect, recharge and celebrate wellbeing together. Sunday, 8 November | 10 am–4 pm | Kula Muriwai

Come as you are and leave feeling renewed, inspired and deeply connected. (SARITA SOLVIG BLANKENBURG)  PN AYURVEDA NZ, 386 Richmond Road, M: 021 144 5768, www.ayurvedanz.co.nz @ayurvedanz

M: 021 144 5768 E: sarita@ayurvedanz.com www.ayurvedanz.co.nz @ayurvedanz

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | ARTS + CULTURE

AUCKLAND THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS MISERY Auckland Theatre Company launches its 2027 season with the King of Horror, Stephen King’s cult favourite Misery – the ultimate psychological thriller: a tense game of cat and mouse between reader and writer, nurse and patient, fan and celebrity. On at the ASB Waterfront Theatre from Tuesday, 26 January until Saturday, 20 February 2027, single tickets will go on sale, Tuesday 27 October 2026. King’s best-selling 1987 novel is adapted by Academy Award-winning screenwriter William Goldman into an edgeof-your-seat theatrical nail-biter, a battle of wits and wills. Two of New Zealand’s foremost screen and stage actors, Michael Hurst ONZM (Paul Sheldon) and Emmy Award winner Morgana O’Reilly (Annie Wilkes), play the roles made famous by James Caan and Kathy Bates in the Academy Award and Golden Globe Award-winning 1990 film. Acclaimed NZ Samoan actor Fasitua Amosa (King Lear, Young Rock) completes the tight cast in the role of Sheriff Buster, the local county lawman.

As they unpick the rotten heart of a parasocial relationship, you can expect unpredictability, high-wire deceit and twisted expressions of devotion. When obsession devolves into possession and dependence twists into addiction, things go from bad to worse. And, in this isolated, snow-gripped remote cabin of 1987, it’s impossible to escape. Begin the new year with an ice-cold plunge into the twisted mind of Stephen King, brought to life by renowned theatre, TV and film director Simon Bennett. Hurst and O’Reilly’s on-stage chemistry is palpable – this will be the ultimate antidote to the back-to-work blues. Tickets and info atc.co.nz T: 09 309 3395

The Covert Theatre in Mackelvie Street, Ponsonby is NZ’s home of improvised comedy. With workshops and shows every night of the week there is something for everyone. Be sure to check out www.coverttheatre.com You can support all the good giggle’s by donation right here, www.coverttheatre.com/how-to-help Registered charity CC53421 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 47

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HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS – what your stars hold for November

Pisces (the Fishes) 20 February - 20 March You do find work boring especially when it can be the same day in and day out. But as unglamorous as it seems, what you’re doing now is laying the footwork for your future.

Aries (the Ram) 21 March - 20 April Don’t take too many risks this month if you can help it as you do tend to overreact. And, by overreacting to something trivial you could put off a potential love interest.

Taurus (the Bull) 21 April - 21 May You do feel agitated this month for some reason and it’s putting you off your game. You’re not sure why but you seem to be tempted by the unusual and the different and this could be why you are not yourself. Exploring something new always brings challenges.

Gemini (the Twins) 22 May - 21 June Try and not be too disappointed this month when you begin to confide in someone and you don’t get the result you’re looking for. It’s best not to make a fuss though as the attention it will bring is not what you’re after.

Cancer (the Crab) 22 June - 22 July You must make sure you don’t have a bad attitude this month as your professional and personal relationships are likely to collide in a spectacular fashion. You need to put on a face though as you may be forced to choose.

Leo (the Lion) 23 July - 21 August You might find that you have been looking at things with rose-tinted glasses on – that is to say everything looks rosy. Unfortunately, that’s about to change as you realise that you’re going to have to step up your game a bit.

Virgo (the Virgin) 22 August - 23 September You may just want to concentrate on the big picture but sometimes you have to deal with the detail and by looking close you will be able to see that you are believing all is well when clearly it is not.

Libra (the Scales) 24 September - 23 October A wonderful moment will catch you unawares this month as your imagination goes into overdrive thinking about the possible outcome. Don’t deter from the path you’re on or go off course in any way and you’ll enjoy the reward.

Scorpio (the Scorpion) 24 October - 22 November You might want to make sure you have all the facts at your fingertips before coming to any conclusions this month as you have made mistakes before. If you think you have the truth, then use it, if not then don’t.

Sagittarius (the Archer) 23 November - 22 December Why have you suddenly got the urge to blurt out your inner most secret to anyone? Anything impulsive now will drive a further wedge in any or all of your relationships. Try and find someone to talk to you know that can help rather than strangers.

Capricorn (the Goat) 23 December - 20 January It’s about time you opened up a bit to a bit more amusement in your life rather than looking enviously at everyone else having fun. However, you have to be comfortable with whatever you do first and foremost.

PN | HOROSCOPES

Aquarius (the Water Carrier) 21 January - 19 February Very little escapes you these days regardless of whether you’re included in what’s going on. Just be prepared to listen first before reacting in case you get the wrong end of the stick.

PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 49

PN | THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

09 376 8689

022 373 5934

Shop Local for European Antiques W W W. E U R O P E A N A N T I Q U E S . C O . N Z

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MODERN THAI CUISINE IN GREY LYNN 2 SURREY CRESCENT, GREY LYNN | THAIGER.CO.NZ | 09 360 0695

The Covert Theatre in Mackelvie Street, Ponsonby is NZ’s home of improvised comedy. With workshops and shows every night of the week there is something for everyone. Be sure to check out www.coverttheatre.com You can support all the good giggle’s by donation right here, www.coverttheatre.com/how-to-help Registered charity CC53421

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | THE PONSONBY PINK PAGES

DONATE YOUR ITEMS TO SPCA AND WE’LL PICK UP FOR FREE!

27 Ponsonby Road | 09 869 2936 @boutiqueforspca

Sleeping Cat Creative

AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD

280 RICHMOND ROAD, GREY LYNN PH: 09 360 0809 Fully Licensed & BYO Wine Only Monday: 4.30pm–9.30pm | Tuesday–Sunday: 11am–9.30pm Somboon Khansuk (Ekk) Owner www.thaithaiauthentic.co.nz TUCKERFOX NZ | UBER EATS

We are a full-service agency specialising in digital and print design, branding and marketing for both national and international clients.

021 197 8779 sleepingcat.co.nz

Expert Bathroom Renovations - Ponsonby & Surrounding Suburbs • FU L L BAT HRO O M RENOVAT I O NS • WAT ERP RO O FI NG & PRECI SI O N T I L I NG • DESI GNER- L ED FI NI SHES A division of Manuka Tiling Ltd - LBP #145927

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M A N U K A T I L I N G LT D . C O M / B A T H R O O M - R E N O V A T I O N PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026 51

52 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PN | LOCAL NEWS

THE NATURAL FUNERAL COMPANY Two years on, The Natural Funeral Company continues to quietly build a reputation for meaningful farewells. Based in Eden Terrace, the company offers natural, bespoke and traditional funeral services, with an approach centred around helping families honour life in a way that feels genuine to them. Whether families are wanting something simple and intimate or a larger, more personalised farewell, the team works alongside them to create services that feel authentic, meaningful and reflective of the individual. With more than four decades in the funeral profession, John brings calm guidance and trusted industry knowledge to families during difficult times, while Tanya helps create the warm and approachable environment the company has become known for.

The business has also recently welcomed funeral director Kelsey McSkimming to the team. Kelsey began working in the funeral industry nearly 14 years ago and has worked across a range of roles before graduating with a Diploma in Funeral Directing in 2019. Joining the business part time, she brings a modern perspective to the profession. Much of The Natural Funeral Company’s growth in recent years has come through word of mouth and personal recommendation, with the team continuing to provide a more personal and relaxed experience for families.

Phone 021 234 5650 120 New North Rd, Eden Terrace contact@naturalfuneral.nz

54 PONSONBY NEWS+ NOVEMBER 2026

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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.

ARE YOU A PONSONBY BUSINESS OWNER? Grow your business with expert insights from NZBusiness magazine. Join the many local entrepreneurs who turn to our digital publication for inspiration, advice, and success strategies. Don’t miss out!

Visit www.nzbusiness.co.nz or scan the QR code to subscribe for free today!