PONSONBY NEWS - JULY'16

+ PUBLISHED FRIDAY 1 JULY 2016

Established: OCTOBER 1989 – CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF PUBLISHING HISTORY!

ponsonbynews.co.nz

JULY 2016

VIVE LA FRANCE LUXURIOUS THINGS FOR THE HOME @ LE MONDE a real family business... Noelle & Craig Davies with Jess Graham

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Intimate.

Functional.

Freehold Fee Simple.

Contemporary style meets a bold and industrial edge with this Jasmax designed boutique development of just 19 townhouses in the heart of Freemans Bay.

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61 Wellington Street, Freemans Bay foundries.co.nz

Internally, kitchens are designed and manufactured in New Zealand using quality xÚÈѼj¿ÆA bÆxÈÈ ~¿ÆÙ È Æ Ñ¼ §jA ÆA§§ A Xj¿ÆA bÆÈA§ÙA¼j¬Æ AÈ ¼ ¿ÆA¼jÆwÑ ÛÆ È jbÆÙ È ÆÑ bj¼Æz ¼Æ jAÈ ~ÆA bÆ Ñ¼ §jA bj¿ ~ jbÆxÈÈ ~¿_Æ~ Ø ~ÆÛ ÑÆ AÚ Ñ Æ comfort and luxury.

Loft Townhouses available from $1,845,000 For enquiries please contact: Blair Watson: blair@kellands.co.nz // 021 502 930 Phillip Haeder: phillip@kellands.co.nz // 021 246 8343

DAW S O N & C O .

1 Sunny Brae Crescent Westmere

16 Dunedin Street St Marys Bay

13/10 Shelly Beach Road St Marys Bay

2/27 Vine Street St Marys Bay

%HDFRQVÀHOG 6WUHHW Grey Lynn

101 Jervois Road Herne Bay

25 Melford Street St Marys Bay

4B Hamilton Road Herne Bay

7 Sheehan Street Ponsonby

13 Wallace Street Herne Bay

Ex Exceptionally tuned in to what’s happening in the Ponsonby area, h K Karen’s your No.1 property professional.

Fo For an outstanding result, let Karen direct your sale. d

1 Sentinel Road, Herne Bay www.bayleys.co.nz/1670522

13A Millais Street, Grey Lynn www.bayleys.co.nz/1670498

Karen’s No.1 Karen Spires

AREINZ

M 027 273 8220 | E karen.spires@bayleys.co.nz

www.bayleys.co.nz Bayleys Real Estate Limited, Ponsonby, Licensed under the REA Act 2008.

photography: Dallas Pickering

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS MONTH

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P20: The fate of The Little Grocer site on Richmond Road is not yet settled; P30: Countdown’s first premium store has opened in Ponsonby.

Above L to R: Dave Chambers, Nikki Kaye and Jennifer Northover

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FROM THE EDITOR DAVID HARTNELL: ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW SHALE CHAMBERS: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS LANDMARK BUILDINGS U3A PONSONBY MIKE LEE, COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF JACINDA ARDERN: LABOUR LIST MP AUCKLAND

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VIVE LA FRANCE EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY VEG FRIENDLY: GARY STEEL LAURAINE JACOBS: THE SEASONED PALATE PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE FASHION + STYLE ANGELA LASSIG: LETTERS FROM MAUDIE HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL FASHION LOVE

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SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY PONSONBY PETS LOOK WHO IS IN THE ZOO PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS GARDENING WITH GRAHAM SHIEFF HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN ARTS + CULTURE

LIVING, THINKING & BEING JOHN APPLETON ON HEALTH FRONT COVER: Martin Leach

PONSONBY NEWS+ is published onthly, excluding January by ALCHEMY MEDIA LIMITED, LI 11/386 RICHMOND ROAD, GREY LYNN POSTAL: P.O. BOX 47-282 Ponsonby, Auckland 1144. www.ponsonbynews.co.nz T: 09 378 8553 or 09 361 3356 Editor/Publisher Associate Publisher & Ad Manager Distribution Manager Advertising Sales Operations Manager Contributing Fashion Editor Contributing Music Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Proof Readers Layout Designer Designer

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MARTIN LEACH; M: 021 771 147; E: martinleach@xtra.co.nz or martin@ponsonbynews.co.nz JO BARRETT; M: 021 324 510; E: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz JAY PLATT; M: 021 771 146; E: jayplatt@xtra.co.nz or jay@ponsonbynews.co.nz ANGELA MARTIN; M: 0274 108 320; E: ponsnewsnz@gmail.com GWYNNE DAVENPORT; M: 021 150 4095; E: ponsonbynews@xtra.co.nz JULIE ROULSTON; M: 027 211 7169; E: julie@ponsonbynews.co.nz FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT; M: 021 134 4101; E: finn.huia@gmail.com DEIRDRE ROELANTS; M: 021 261 8439; E: deirdre33@slingshot.co.nz JOHN ELLIOTT; M: 021 879 054; E: johnelliott@ihug.co.nz JESSIE KOLLEN; DEIRDRE THURSTON ARNA MARTIN; E: arna@cocodesign.co.nz MELISSA PAYNTER; E: melissapaynter@me.com

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YOUR GATEWAY TO INNER CITY LIVING

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TH E U LTI M ATE RO O F TO P R E TR E AT

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LETTERS + EMAILS

Views in Ponsonby News reflect the authors’ and not those of Alchemy Media.

254 PONSONBY ROAD AKA PONSONBY PARK Last month was a busy time with the launch of the Community-led design process for the whole of the site park at 254 Ponsonby Road. We conducted our first community consultation where we asked people - ‘What do you want to do and feel there’. These were deliberately wide and open questions because we wanted to gauge the fundamental ideas and concepts that people are most interested in.

Our next body of work is to systematically analyse the survey responses and determine the directions the community wishes to develop further. These results will then be fed back to begin the next round of consultation. Through this process of asking, receiving back, analysing, developing ideas and then feeding back, we will work through our community-led design process to eventually reach our goal of designing and budgeting the whole of the site, open space.

It’s an exciting time and it’s great to be underway, especially with such wonderful support and enthusiasm from the community. A big thank you to everyone who completed the survey or stopped to talk with us. It’s good to have you involved.

You can stay up to date or contact us at: 254Ponsonbyrd.org or check us out on Facebook; 254Ponsonbyrd and Ponsonby Park.

Jennifer Ward, Ponsonby

photography: Tony Bridge

The survey ran from 18 May - 17 June. We leafleted the local streets, visited the local businesses and handed out leaflets on-site over several days culminating with another two tea parties on Sat 11 and Sunday 12 June. All of this hard work paid off with a great response from the community and a few consistent themes emerging almost straight away.

The Labyrinth prayer walkway @ St Columba, Surrey Crescent BILL RALSTON STANDING FOR WAITEMATA WARD Delighted to read Bill Ralston is standing for the Waitemata Ward. 'City Vision' have held the purse strings for far too long and, in my view, have not lived up to their name!

Alan Most, Waitemata Ward THE LATEST EDITION HAS A LETTER REGARDING SUMMER STREET FROM JOHN MACMILLAN Johnny Mac was a valued member of the Grey Lynn RSC, a most knowledgeable man of Ponsonby and beyond, beyond the seas in fact.. he passed away on 11 May. He would chuckle to know that he still had a last word to say in Ponsonby, even after his passing.

Jane Jackson, Committee GLRSC

ROAD WORKS AT HAKANOA STREET I want to applaud Jocelyn Weatherall on her letter in the June issue, which raises concerns over the works currently being done on Hakanoa Street. I share the same concerns and frustrations the affect these works can have on the heritage of the street, and the lack of consultation to the street occupants. I have found it a bit of a nuisance having to park quite a distance in the neighbouring streets, and having to walk in the dark during winter and the rain that comes with it, sometimes carrying heavy bags of grocery shopping.

I’ve taken to dropping them off at the house, then will park the car down the road and then walk back to the house (I’m a renter and there’s no space in our driveway to park).

I wonder if it were possible this type of work could have been planned for the warmer months during daylight savings? Name withheld, by request THE DARK SIDE OF GETTING A TATTOO Just a note regarding the article 'the dark side of getting a tattoo' (Ponsonby News June 2016.) This was a positive article, highlighting the very real risks of getting a tattoo.

However, these risks are generally only from inexperienced, unlicensed practitioners.

If a professional studio (that has been operating for some time) is health department registered, that means they have complied with stringent council bylaws to obtain a health department licence. If you don't see that certificate displayed prominently on their wall, walk out immediately. (There is no A-F rating, they either qualify or do not.)

A professional tattoo studio will only be using safe pigments that have been certified (in their country of origin) by a biochemist. They should be composed of inert organic non-allergenic substances. There are very strict regulations regarding sale of tattoo pigments worldwide. If you are a person that suffers from allergies, inform the artist and they can do a 'spot test' before tattooing.

Inexperienced/untrained tattooists may not know the risks involved with incorrect skin preparation and disinfection, instrument sterilisation as well as the correct cross - contamination procedures. The long-term effects of (certified) tattoo pigments in the skin are less harmful than everyday toxins (smoking, drinking, junk food) and environment.

Adam Craft - The Tattooed Heart (any questions please email tattoocraftnz@hotmail.com)

69,000 READERS PER MONTH

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FROM THE EDITOR OUR COVER STAR THIS MONTH IS A LOCAL BUSINESS Le Monde, which is French for ‘The World’ and reflects the products that make up its collection sourced from all over the globe. Le Monde is located opposite the new Cider development, aka Vinegar Lane, where the first Countdown Premium store has recently opened. Jess Graham says, “When I think back on the reality of launching a business in amongst such major construction work, I think we were a bit ambitious but sometimes you have to make the most of opportunities as they present themselves. Regardless of the chaos that has surrounded us the feedback has been so supportive! Our customers often say they would love to move in.”

All Ponsonby News readers will have their fingers crossed, that the Environment Court endorses the council’s decision to oppose a 40-seat cafe on the busy Richmond Road/Peel Street corner; site of the sadly missed Little Grocer.

Readers will note in Local News this issue, that the headmaster of St Peter’s College, Kieran Fouhy, was awarded an Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. St Peter’s College loss will be St Paul’s College gain next year, when Mr Fouhy

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

photography: Michael McClintock

This month Ponsonby News asked several of the mayoralty candidates for their opinion on a range of important issues - their answers on how they will save rates, whether they would sell off assets, how they would handle population intensification, solve our housing and transport problems... and whether they will allow Auckland Council to continue using poisonous herbicides on our berms and in our parks. Readers may wish to analyse these candidates’ policy positions before they vote.

Martin Leach, Jo Barrett, Angela Martin, Jay Platt and Gwynne Davenport

takes up the role of headmaster of our local boys' catholic college. His vast experience will be a tremendous asset to St Paul’s.

Nature Baby held a day out last month at the local Kelmarna Gardens - the first of its kind. Ponsonby News hopes that this will be the start of a trend for local businesses to partner with Kelmarna Gardens for joint PN ventures to ensure its success. (MARTIN LEACH) F

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DAVID HARTNELL’S ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW Stacey Morrison Drive co-host on The Hits, nationwide. She and her husband live in Western Springs.

Tell us about the house that you live in?

The people who live in it! People often say it’s cosy, and has a nice vibe, that’s important to me. I’m also in love with our new laundry which has just been done up and is now a joy to wash clothes in.

What was your childhood like?

My parents were 17 and 18 when I was born, I was a ‘surprise’. There were a fair amount of struggles, but much love and happiness, too. My parents broke up when I was eight, but they each had at least one more marriage after that, so we have a funny, complicated collection of darling half and step siblings.

Who is the most annoying celebrity today?

The amount of attention giving to the K-named family is annoying.

To date what is your dream holiday?

Kathmandu - fascinating! And, New York.

Best thing you have brought back from an overseas trip?

A three-month-old baby in my puku (our youngest daughter).

Tweeting or Facebook?

Facebook, I’m a chronic ‘liker’.

What was the funniest news thing that has happened to you on air?

When my dad was being our newsreader on Flava and had a brain explosion that lead to him mispronouncing ‘Karmichael Hunt’. You can guess how that went?

How would you like to be remembered?

As a good human.

What do you love most about your age?

That I’ve made it! I’m only two years younger than my mum was when she died, so I consider getting older a privilege.

The best movie you've ever seen and why?

I always say The Princess Bride. Why? Because it’s The Princess Bride!

Have you ever seen a ghost?

I’ve felt one, rather than seen one.

Give your teenaged self some advice?

Lighten up, man.

Who would play you in the movie of your life?

Ooh, fantasy version? Jennifer Lopez/Halle Berry! Ha! How do you chill out?

I’m an active relaxer.

What is your all-time favourite book?

Hmm tough, maybe The Prophet.

Which item of clothing can't you live without?

High heels.

Your dream home?

Space, by a lake, gosh it sounds a bit like Rotorua.

What are you insecure about?

Being insecure.

Tell us something very few people know about you?

I learnt Japanese before Maori language.

Greatest weakness/indulgence?

Being late, because I’m trying to do too much.

Your idea of perfect happiness?

Happy and healthy family, who are living their truth.

Are you a handshake or a hug kind of person?

Kiss/hug.

Your greatest fear?

I’m actually scared of talking about fears because it makes them seem more real, and likely.

Do you have any recurring dreams?

Flying dreams. They're the best.

Who is your favourite hero of fiction?

Wonderwoman. The outfit, the attitude, the super powers!

If your life was an ice-cream, what would it be called?

Hokey pokey.

Change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I wouldn’t mind being average height rather than Kim Kardashian sized.

Something that you really disapprove of?

Hate speech.

Which talent would you most like to have?

An incredible singing voice.

What song makes you happy?

Anything my kids sing.

Which living person do you most admire?

Impossible to say one! But luckily, many are family and friends.

What’s your comfort food?

Anything with seeds in it - I know, weird.

What motivates you?

Positive energy.

What do you think happens when we die?

Our wairua (spirit) lives on, in many forms, including in the memories and words of loved ones we leave behind.

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What gizmo can you simply not live without?

My phone. I hate admitting that.

Do you have a life motto?

Mauri ora! Live with vitality.

Have you ever had any acting aspirations?

I’ve dabbled, I don’t think I’m great at it.

Your dream guest list for a dinner party?

Oprah, Ellen, Beyoncé. And all my friends and family.

Describe your first pet?

Goldfish, which died but dad tried to swish them around so it looked like they were still swimming.

How do you take your coffee?

Non existent.

Travel light or heavy?

Light, and proud!

What is the best holiday you've ever had?

Our trip to Rarotonga and Hawaii with the kids last year was pretty hard to beat.

Your opinion on today's man?

Thank goodness for him! I wouldn’t have been much good with the man of the last generation.

(DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM) F PN

What cliché do you hate most?

Bob’s your uncle. What?

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Cricket whites on Victoria Park and festive lights on Franklin Road, not to mention the characterful homes, shops and eateries that zigzag up the hill inbetween. We like how you roll Freemans Bay. Share our discoveries –

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Flexi minded 6 Ardmore Road, Herne Bay For Sale by Auction

Revel in the flexibility of multiple options: In which portion of the villa do we (*You *Boyfriend *Girlfriend *Friend *Random *Mother) reside? To which world class restaurant and boutique do we wander?

At which idyllic beach do we chill on a Sunday?

A, B or C? *select one or all.

JOHN & NIC

John Wills & Nic Blackie 021 333 053 021 505 964

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The home that has it all 37 Ardmore Road, Herne Bay For Sale by Auction

Broad hallways, a larger than large master suite, elegant second living room, coveted west facing open plan living and the absolute enormity that is the internal access double garage.

A master stroke — this is real and rare functional family living.

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SHALE CHAMBERS: WAITEMATA LOCAL BOARD REPORT

Clarity of role and more power to local boards; key to improved community engagement It is three months until the local body elections, and the issues and people offering themselves in Waitemata to address the important challenges facing us all are becoming clearer.

The councillor position is between two ticket-aligned independents; the incumbent, experienced long-term Councillor, Mike Lee and the high-profile challenger, Bill Ralston.

Local Board member Rob Thomas is also a declared independent candidate for a third time. It will be the contest to watch this election.

Two teams are vying for your support for the local board; the incumbent centre-left City Vision ticket of which I am a part, and the new centre-right ticket of Auckland Future. The issues that divide are never as clear at the local level as they are at the council table. City Vision will stand on its record of progressive achievement and strong community voice. It is yet to be seen how Auckland Future’s message of rates restraint, and resulting focus on core council services; established and aimed at capturing a majority of like-minded councillors around the governing body table, will translate to the population-based, bulk funded, local board level.

Auckland Council as a Super City is nearly six years old. The Royal Commission on Auckland Governance that preceded the Super City highlighted two issues: regional governance was weak and fragmented, and community engagement was poor. Public support and confidence in council is currently at an all-time low with only 15% satisfied with its performance. Auckland Council’s strengths and successes (and there are many) and weaknesses and shortcomings (of which there are many examples, mostly failures to address community engagement) will inevitably become part of the campaign, too.

Oddly, Rodney Hide’s experiment in local government for Auckland, with its executive mayor, regional decision-making governing body, 21 local boards to address the local, and Independent Maori Statutory Board; a world first in terms of structure for local government contained no requirement for any review of its effectiveness.

Council is nevertheless conducting its own ‘Governance Framework Review’ at present. It will report shortly. The purpose of the review is to assess ‘how the Auckland governance model is meeting the aim of strong regional decision-making complemented by decisions that meet diverse local needs and interests’. That is where we come in as local boards.

A lot of it is inward looking, but it is importantly charged with looking at the level of funding of local boards, and the delegations to meet those local needs. There is growing acknowledgement that there is a lack of recognition of the governance model, that decision making is not shared between governing body and local boards, and that local boards lack sufficient power, profile and respect to meet their potential.

Coincidentally, the Committee for Auckland recently commissioned and released a report on ‘The Governance of Auckland: 5 years on’. You may never have heard of the Committee for Auckland. It is secretive, its influence on Auckland obscure, and in nearly six years your central local board has never heard from them, but the report is rather good.

Local boards are said to lack power and potency. Most residents don’t feel they can participate in local board decision making. The lines between local decisions and regional decisions are blurred. The local board model needs to be stronger for

16 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

Completed pathways renewals in Moira Reserve, Ponsonby regional governance to deliver. Here, here, is what we say, although we try very hard with engagement.

Council Controlled Organisations also feature prominently. Whilst CCOs are said to facilitate commercial, professional and politically unimpeded delivery of crucial services, they also operate as functional silos, where assets and services operate independently from the rest of council. Auckland Transport’s detached nature in particular was highlighted.

We believe Auckland Transport is simply too large. Its core capabilities do not include town centre and streetscape placemaking and improvements. These functions should transfer back to council and elected members to oversee. Maintenance of greenspaces and street toilets have already come back to council in part recognition of this Auckland Transport weakness. The community needs a far greater say in the development of our streets as places; from town centre and street furniture improvements to street banners and trading management.

Let’s hope that any outcome of the latest reports and council review can help unlock community engagement and confidence in council. Strengthening the role and powers of local boards is an important part of achieving this goal. Your local board will continue to be a strong local voice, but a larger budget and clarified responsibilities certainly will PN assist. (SHALE CHAMBERS) F Contact me: shale.chambers@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

NIKKI KAYE: AUCKLAND CENTRAL MP

Working hard across New Zealand and locally It has been a busy few months with Budget announcements at the end of May and lots of projects being progressed in Auckland Central.

In Budget 2016 the Hon Hekia Parata and I announced $882 million for school infrastructure which is twice as much as last year’s Budget. As Associate Minister of Education this was the largest capital investment in the budget and is another funding boost in our school infrastructure investment programme. I have been right across the country announcing new projects including $153 million for Auckland investing in more classrooms, new schools and expansions on existing sites.

It has also been a busy time here in the Auckland Central electorate where I have been completing many of the 23 local projects I campaigned on to deliver for you in 2014.

You can view these projects at www.nikkikaye.co.nz.

As the MP for our central city I represent a large number of people who live in apartments and I am passionate about ensuring people living in body corporate arrangements have their rights and interests protected properly. At the beginning of the year I set up a website where people could make public submissions regarding their experiences with bodies corporate.

I also facilitated a working group of legal and property experts who then worked on a report focusing on a range of policy and legal issues covering bodies corporate.

I was hugely impressed by the professionalism and commitment shown by those on the working group. Recently, they presented their report to Building and Housing's Nick Smith, in addition to the report I presented, collating the public submissions I received.

Minister Smith met with the group in Wellington and I'm delighted he has welcomed the report and commissioned further work including international jurisdictions on this.

There needs to be changes to ensure greater confidence in people purchasing units or apartments and I am pleased to be progressing work to ensure that this happens.

I have also been meeting with various community and social organisations, including the City Mission to ensure more can be done to ensure to assist people into emergency housing and support some of our most vulnerable in central Auckland. The Government has been working on more initiatives including the recent $41 million emergency housing package announced in Budget 2016.

On behalf of Minister of Conservation, Maggie Barry, I recently re-opened the Kaiaraara Track on Great Barrier Island. The track is part of the Aotea Track and suffered major damage during a storm in June 2014.

DOC has invested $353,000 in the redevelopment project after large sections of the track were washed out, and bridges and huts were extensively damaged. The Government’s total investment in the project stands at $1 million.

As the MP responsible for Great Barrier Island, it is fantastic to see the track re-opened.

In conjunction with the Aotea Conservation Park, the Aotea Track is a vital tourist attraction and economic asset to the island.

Friday 3 June was a very special day on Great Barrier Island. On behalf of Minister Barry, I announced the joint purchase of the Glenfern Sanctuary by the Government, the Auckland Council and Foundation North. Christine Fletcher did an amazing job helping get it over the line, as did the Bouzaid family, who made the property available for purchase.

Tony Bouzaid was especially influential and showed real determination to have the sanctuary established. It was great acknowledging a man who gave so much to conservation and the island. Glenfern is a valuable acquisition into public ownership.

It is a significant gateway for the island and provides both tourism and educational opportunities for the future.

I have also been out door knocking in many streets throughout the electorate over the last month. It's been lovely to personally chat with many people on their doorsteps and it is a privilege to be the MP for Auckland Central. (NIKKI KAYE) F PN Hon Nikki Kaye is the MP for Auckland Central. www.nikkikaye.co.nz

Over the years I have been involved in progressing initiatives to better help people into homes and tackle homelessness. One initiative I have been involved in was advocating for the Te Kooti O Timatanga Hou which brings Government agencies together, including health services and housing, to work with people who are homeless to ensure they receive better support. While this only relates to a small number of people, it has been a very successful initiative in supporting people who may have very complex needs.

It was fantastic to be at the ground-breaking ceremony for the Central Rail Link a few weeks ago with the Prime Minister, Minister Bridges and Mayor Brown. To get to this point has taken a lot of hard work and it is crucial that we have now secured this piece of vital infrastructure for our city. The Auckland City Rail Link will be a 3.4 km double -track underground rail line running beneath the central business district from Britomart to the Western (North Auckland) Line near the existing Mount Eden Station, with two underground stations in the CBD. The project has an estimated cost of around $2.5 billion, and will be New Zealand’s largest ever transport project.

The Auckland population is expected to grow by up to 800,000 people in the next 35 years and the CRL is much needed to help accommodate people moving around the city.

However, it is not just those who live centrally that will benefit, but those Aucklanders who live south and west of the city. This development will form vital connections and cut down their travel time.

Construction of the main works is due to begin in 2018, and due to the Government’s funding commitment, this is two years earlier than originally envisaged.

18 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Little Grocer site - Environment Court Hearing The fate of the Little Grocer site on Richmond Road is not yet settled.

The Environment Court hearing was adjourned until Friday 25 June, by which date the applicant was asked to come up with a clear list of changes to their proposal which they were prepared to accept.

with the building being retained as a dwelling. That would allow a small cafe, like the much-loved Little Grocer, but would not be as disruptive as the much larger scale of the applicant’s proposal.

A report from the spokespeople for the Incorporated Society fighting the planned 40 -seat cafe, said that the applicant was not able to respond coherently to the society’s presentation, although they had been sent the society’s information well in advance of the hearing.

But the agony goes on!

The society was pleased with the daily support of between six and 12 people who attended the hearing.

At the start of the week the applicants for the cafe made their case, followed by the council opposing and then the Incorporated Society presented its case. Witnesses were called by each party and cross-examined by the opposing party.

Susan Hirst, Jessica Fowler and Jo Patterson spoke for the society, alongside planning and heritage experts.

A report from committee member, Mattie Wall, said, “They were justly proud of the way they acquitted themselves, holding the line firmly against some tough and, at times, unpleasant and vexatious questioning by the applicant’s lawyer.”

The society had been advised by its lawyer to make a strategic decision to present an alternative proposal to the applicants that of a 20-seat cafe facing onto Richmond Road

The final plans will have been submitted by the time Ponsonby News goes to press, and the judge and two commissioners will probably have made their decision based on this information.

After two and a half years, this latest delay is very frustrating. The Incorporated Society has made the community’s concerns clear from day one, both at the pre-hearing meeting the applicant called in September 2014, and at the mediation they insisted the society attend - against the society’s wishes - at the end of last year.

The wait (two and a half years) is extremely frustrating, and although the applicants have agreed to remove the coffee roastery from their plans, and reduce the cafe numbers from 60 to 40 (still far too many), the society now has to wait again while the applicants get their act together, still pushing hard against the wishes of the local community.

This is an inappropriate application, absolutely unwanted by local residents. Why the applicants are so determined and bloody minded about it, Ponsonby News cannot understand. If they succeed they will face a total boycott.

We say they should quit while they’re behind! (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN

photography: Dallas Pickering

Ponsonby News readers who would like to help the fight financially can do so on givealittle.co.nz/cause/311richmondroad

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RACHAEL TE AOTONGA: LEYS INSTITUTE LIBRARY NEWS The winter school holidays kick off in mid July and Leys Institute Library will be offering lots of activities to keep small minds and hands busy.

The theme for these holidays is ‘Game On’ and we think we have it covered with everything from old-fashioned jigsaw making to an iPad challenge.

If you’re lucky enough to have some time off with the kids these holidays it could be the perfect opportunity to sign them up with their own library card. A guardian’s membership card is all we require, and if you as a guardian are not already a member of Auckland Libraries just bring along some ID and proof of your address. You can even start the process online at www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz. Simple!

What’s on at Leys Institute Library these school holidays: Tuesday 12 July, 10.30am - noon Book Bingo Can you match the author to the book and complete your bingo card first? Come and test your skills and win some prizes.

Thursday 14 July, 10.30am - noon Race Day If you can make it you can race it! From old fashioned paper planes to rockets and frogs, come and accept the challenge.

Monday 18 July, 10.30am - noon Jigsaw Frenzy Bring your friends and complete some good old-fashioned jigsaw puzzles. You can even have a go at creating your own.

Wednesday 20 July, 10.30am - noon Black Stacks Demo Come and see members of our national sport stacking team, the Black Stacks, doing what they do best, cup stacking. Then see how you stack up.

Thursday 21 July, 10.30am - noon Game Day Challenge Come and test your skills with our iPad challenge. The competition is bound to be fierce.

All activities are free and everyone is welcome. We look forward to seeing you in the library soon. (RACHAEL TE AOTONGA) F PN LEYS INSTITUTE, 20 St Marys Road, T: 09 374 1315, www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz

DEIRDRE ROELANTS: LANDMARK BUILDINGS

Trentham Trentham is located in St Mary’s Bay above Shelley Beach. The locality was originally a traditional place of Maori settlement and fishing.

The wider area belonged to Ngati Whatua and the iwi’s offer to transfer land to the British Crown to found Auckland was accepted in 1840. Freemans Bay and Ponsonby were the first suburbs established west of the new colonial capital. Part of the allotment was purchased by a J. C. Brooke in 1853 and he marketed sites for superior-type dwellings with views of the Waitemata Harbour. After some changes of ownership, a timber house was constructed sometime between 1886 and 1882. Once the Auckland economy started to revive after the 1880s depression, the property was subdivided into two and the southern and eastern portion was sold to Josiah Webster. The existing house had evidently been demolished.

Josiah’s parents arrived from England in 1858 then moved to Thames 10 years later where Josiah trained as a tinsmith. After he married Jane Smith he joined his father-in-law who was in the fruit and vegetable trade, eventually owning a business in lower Queen Street close to the railway station and Queens Wharf. He evidently equipped his shop with one of the first soda fountains in the city. Good fortune obviously smiled upon him because Trentham’s construction commenced in 1906 and was completed before 1908.

The large two-storied timber villa was designed by Auckland architect, Arthur Lewitt Ferneyhough who was born in Nottingham and arrived here in 1890. He served his articles under Edward Bartley and went into practice on his own in 1899, specialising in residential designs, the best known being Trentham on 11 Shelley Beach Road.

The design was ideal for the corner site and showed Queen Anne Revival influences with its symmetrical facades linked by a semicircular bay plus a prominent Moorish domed turret. Lavish ornamentation included fretwork, shingling and spindles on double-height bays and verandahs. Josiah was a Freemason and became the First Grand Principal, the highest position in Royal Arch Masonry of New Zealand, and Masonic-inspired motifs were incorporated in the glasswork. The cresting on the cast iron roof inspired a satirist to comment that Webster’s house might serve as an alternative residence for the Governor General. The interior’s 11 rooms were just as ornate with pressed metal ceilings and a sweeping timber staircase leading up to a roof-top viewing platform. A cast iron boundary fence with grand pillars indicated a wish for privacy yet enabled peeking from the passing parade.

22 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

In 1914 Webster took out a mortgage on the house in order to finance his construction of the Grand Theatre on the site of his fruit shop. Two years later it was offered for sale ahead of a Supreme Court hearing to do with the theatre construction contract. Webster managed to retain ownership of both properties but Trentham was briefly let out as a maternity home and then converted into four flats in 1921.

During the Great Depression part of the upstairs was occupied by his son’s family and Mrs Webster entertained touring celebrities such as Anna Pavlova and Sybil Thorndike at the house. In 1954 the family sold Trentham. The ground floor was converted into two flats by enclosing parts of the north-facing verandah and the south-facing porch was enclosed in 1969.

Trentham has aesthetic significance as a notable landmark of interesting exterior appearance. Its interior is equally significant because of the glasswork with its Masonic motifs, the timber staircase and well-preserved, pressed metal ceilings. The place has architectural significance as a notable example of a two-storied gentleman’s villa. It is historically significant in that it demonstrates how after the First World War many grand houses in the Ponsonby area were divided up into flats or converted into boarding houses or used as private hospitals. Many such examples abound in our part of the city when back in those days it lost its status as a desirable place to live.

(DEIRDRE ROELANTS) F PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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PONSONBY U3A: JUNE 2016 Ponsonby U3A members felt they had accompanied June guest speaker Jim Morrow to the summit of the world’s sixth highest mountain, as the retired Auckland builder described his triumphant ascent of Cho Oyu on the border of Tibet and Nepal in 2014.

It was his second attempt on the 8201m peak after a 2007 bid had been thwarted by a storm which "chased us off the mountain," said Jim.

Jim brought with him a selection of climbing equipment and mountaineering clothing which added to his fascinating story.

He started his outdoor adventures with his school tramping club, joining the Auckland Tramping Club when he left school and spending his adult life tramping, skiing and climbing. He has had vast experience in the ranges and mountains of New Zealand and Nepal.

U3A member Roger McElroy has literally walked the length and breadth of England, undertaking most of the well-known walks, including the more than 300km Coast to Coast Walk from Brees Head on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood Bay on the North Sea, which was the subject of his 10 minute talk to U3A. The Coast to Coast passes through the Lake District, the Pennines, Swaledale and the North York Moors. It’s a 14 day and 14 night walk known as the Wainwright Walk, named for the author of the famous series of seven guide books, including the Coast to Coast Walk. The books contain Wainwight’s hand-drawn route maps and commentary. “The Coast to Coast guide book is essential for this walk,” said Roger. The organised group walk passed through scenic countryside, historic villages and farmland. Vans ferried luggage between overnight stops along the way and walkers were left to carry just a day pack and a coat. At the conclusion of the walk he visited Whitby, near Robin Hood Bay, where Captain James Cook served his apprenticeship and is celebrated in the Captain Cook Memorial Museum.

Jim’s richly illustrated talk of the Cho Oyu climb, described the process of becoming acclimatised and the time it took. After a period at Base Camp they moved to Advance Base Camp (6400m) where the snow starts, next a difficult climb up an ice cliff to Camp Two (7200m), then to Camp Three where oxygen is needed and it is necessary to drink four litres of fluid a day to cope with the demands of the low oxygen dry air. On summit day his Sherpa arrived at 1am with oxygen and 30 minutes later they had started the final climb through the night in -40°C temperatures, arriving at the summit at 6.30am.

They watched the sun rise over Mt Everest, 20km away and stayed for half an hour taking photographs. It had been a five hour climb and it was imperative to undertake the more difficult descent in daylight. They were back at Camp Three at 9.30am, quickly packed up and descended to Camp Two, then down the ice cliff with two oxygen bottles and a 30kg pack. They arrived very tired at Base Camp at 3pm to be handed a welcome cup of hot coffee, before being taken by bus to Kathmandu for a traditional celebration at a well-known local restaurant.

Ponsonby U3A meets on the second Friday morning of the month. Between the monthly meeting members take part in the activities of 16 special-interest groups, providing learning opportunities, leisure and companionship - regarded as the lifeblood of the U3A movement. Visitors are welcome to attend a U3A meeting, but are requested

Mountaineer Jim Morrow showed his climbing clothing and boots to U3A members to contact either Annie Webster (T: 09 376 2902) or Jane Jones (T: 09 378 7628) prior to attending a meeting.

Guest speaker at the July meeting will be Edward Bennett, Heritage Manager, Karangahape Road Business Association. (PHILIPPA TAIT) F PN NEXT MEETING: 9.45am, Friday 8 July, Herne Bay Petanqe Club, Salisbury Street Reserve, Herne Bay. ENQUIRIES: Annie Webster, President Ponsonby U3A, T: 09 376 2902 www.u3aponsonby.org.nz

LOCAL NEWS LOCAL TEACHER HONOURED WITH ORDER OF MERIT Mr Kieran Fouhy, headmaster of St Peter’s College in Grafton, has been awarded an Order of Merit for the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations 2016.

Mr Fouhy first came to the college back in 1989 and in his 26 years at the school until his retirement last year he helped raise the student roll from 669 to over 1300, with the school now receiving a higher demand for places than it can provide.

He also oversaw the rebuilding and extension of the college, including new blocks for specialist subjects and the upgrading of sports fields. He instigated a number of initiatives to improve the schools culture and community, including a compulsory music programme for junior students as well as seeing students volunteer in India, the Philippines and Pacific Islands.

Mr Fouhy was the principal instigator and a foundation member of the Auckland Central Catholic Schools Group, was chair of the Edmund Rice Justice Aotearoa-New Zealand Trust and a supportive member of the Edmund Rice Camps Auckland, which provides camp experiences for children from lower socio-economic families.

The academic standards of Saint Peter’s College have seen the school placed first among Auckland boys' secondary schools in the decile seven and eight group.

As a result of his dedication and hard work, Mr Fouhy was awarded the MNZM (Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit) for his services to education on the Queen’s 90th Birthday Honours List. F PN

24 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

Kieran Fouhy PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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MIKE LEE: COUNCILLOR FOR WAITEMATA & GULF

Rodney escape bid could help rest of Auckland When members of the Herne Bay Ratepayers Association Inc (HBRAI) asked to meet with me in May and included on the agenda the application by a rural northern Rodney group to break away from the Super City, I confess I was a little puzzled.

But I soon got the picture. It seems that the rather obscure events at the remote northern end of the region could well have major implications for the Auckland Council and therefore for all Auckland ratepayers. The North Rodney Action Group had previously had its application for a hearing to break away from Auckland Council rejected by the Local Government Commission. But the High Court ruled that their application must be heard. Accordingly the commission has invited submissions ‘alternative applications’ from across Auckland because the northern Rodney application could affect the whole Auckland region. Alerted to the possibilities by the HBRAI members I am putting in my own submission.

Council and its CCOs have much public credibility at the present time. These are not just my opinions. The Auckland Council’s own recent public opinion poll of 3000 citizens (Citizens Insight Monitor) include the following quite damning findings:

I have had some involvement in North Rodney politics. Back in 2009 when the Super City was being set up by the Government, a determined attempt was made by northern Rodney interests to take the northern half of Rodney out of Auckland and into Kaipara District and Northland. However, some northern Rodney ratepayers (apparently the majority) felt the move was ill-conceived and appealed to the Auckland Regional Council. The ARC had its own interests to uphold, especially the eight coastal regional parks paid for by ratepayers across the Auckland region. In the end, the Government vetoed the idea. Just as well as it turned out. Not long after Kaipara District declared itself bankrupt leaving its ratepayers with huge debts and a Government - appointed commissioner. So what is my submission about? Well this time round the application is not to move North Rodney into Northland but to form an independent North Rodney Unitary Authority.

The 2010 ‘Super City’ amalgamation resulted in an organisation which today has assets of over $40 billion, a debt of $7 billion and a turnover of $5.6 billion a year and 11,380 employees. This is on the scale of a major business corporation. In the business world it is standard practice that significant corporate mergers, after five years or so, are subjected to a post-merger audit. This has not happened with the ‘Super City’, nor is one planned. Such an exercise could only be initiated by the council or the Government.

While the Government is obviously not unwilling to give the council a jolly good kicking every now and then, any admission that its own creation could be dysfunctional is apparently to be avoided. Despite this, a thorough-going audit or review really needs to happen.

Under the Local Government Act (2002) s.5, a "unitary authority means a territorial authority that has the responsibilities, duties and powers of a regional council..."

Interestingly, the best known example of a unitary authority is the Auckland Council itself.

Becoming a ‘unitary authority’ would mean northern Rodney for all practical purposes become would another ‘region’ of New Zealand. While I personally don’t believe that tenable in terms of the population and boundary requirements of the Local Government Act, what I do argue for as an alternative, is for North Rodney to become a district council.

This would give the North Rodney community a much greater level of self-government while retaining north Rodney within the Auckland region. In its relationship with a new North Rodney district council Auckland Council would revert to being a regional council.

As I have told the Commission, the present ‘Super City’ arrangements cannot be defended as optimal in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, nor does the Auckland

• 15% of respondents were satisfied with the council’s performance, while 36% were dissatisfied.

• 17% of respondents say they trust the council to make the right decision, while 47% do not.

Simply put, the Super City is too big, too monolithic, too bureaucratic, too secretive and with too much of its responsibilities outsourced to the CCOs (some like Auckland Transport are also too big with too many non-transport responsibilities). In contrast, democratically elected Local Boards are badly under-resourced in funding, powers and responsibilities.

Providing the opportunity for district councils such as for Rodney (in the north and south) and for Waiheke (also keen on breaking away) under the umbrella of the Auckland region, alongside local boards in the more urban areas, would, by using a standard and time-tested template, enable the amalgamated Auckland Council to evolve and adapt to better meet the aspirations of its citizens and its different communities. Without compromising a unified region it would also bring an element of diversity and healthy competitive tension within the present monolithic structure of the Auckland Council. In other words more freedom and better local government for North Rodney and Waiheke PN could be good for all of us. (MIKE LEE) F Mike Lee is the Auckland councillor for Waitemata & Gulf ward.www.mikelee.co.nz

LOCAL NEWS SEVEN DAYS LINE-UP COMES TO PONSONBY The all-star line-up from TV3’s ever popular Seven Days is putting on a one-night comedy show for Comedy Grapevine here in Freemans Bay. Hosted by Justine Smith, the show will feature the famous faces of Ben Hurley, Jeremy Corbett and Urzila Carlson in a one-night show at the Sweat Shop Brew Bar at 7 Sale Street.

Tickets cost $25 and are available from Eventfinda or get in early as the first 50 tickets are going for just $20 each. Tables are also available for a minimum of five people.

SWEAT SHOP BREW STAND UP COMEDY NIGHT, 7 Sale Street, T: 021 216 2222, www.comedygrapevine.co.nz www.eventfinda.co.nz/2016/sweat-shop-brew-stand-up-comedy-night/ auckland/freemans-bay

The night is guaranteed to sell out so get in quick to secure your place. The show starts at 8pm on Wednesday 27 July, with doors opening at 6:30pm.

26 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Sugar coated - The deception of the sugar industry A disgraceful catalogue of Big Sugar’s sweet little lies.

For much of the past 40 years big sugar has been engaging in a deliberate misinformation public relations exercise to mislead the public about the dangers of too much sugar - particularly added fructose.

On a brisk spring Tuesday in 1976, a pair of executives from the Sugar Association stepped up to the podium of a Chicago ballroom to accept the Oscar of the public relations world, the Silver Anvil award for excellence in 'the forging of public opinion'.

This PR coup followed a poll two years earlier showing consumers had come to see sugar as fattening and that most doctors suspected it might exacerbate, if not cause, heart disease and diabetes. The Sugar Association recruited a stable of medical and nutritional professionals to allay the public’s fears, and produced scientific papers, bankrolled by themselves, which, the Silver Anvil application boasted, made it, “unlikely that sugar will be subject to legislative restriction in coming years.”

The sugar moguls claimed a harmless product was under attack by “opportunists dedicated to exploiting the consuming public.”

In the years since that sugar industry victory, a campaign very similar to that waged by the tobacco industry has raged. Like tobacco, sugar is not addictive, we were told. One obesity conference had McDonalds as a major sponsor - the fox in charge of the henhouse.

When suggestions were made that added fructose in soda drinks should be controlled by legislation, libertarians were outraged. “Don’t tell me what to eat,” they cried. “Get the government out of my kitchen.” As Cristin Kearns, a dentist turned sugar detective explained, “the sugar industry was

already in the kitchen. Where were the libertarians 40 years ago when this subterfuge began.”

Gradually, as the dynamic film Sugar Coated, recently shown at the Documentary Festival, pointed out, it became clear that American’s obesity, diabetes and heart disease, could be directly attributed to too much sugar. One of the stunning statistics was that in 1972 Americans consumed about four pounds of sugar a year.

By 2000 it was over 100 pounds on average. Some were ingesting a pound a day, starting with cornflakes with added sugar.(A pound of sugar is about 500 grams. The recommended intake is about 50 grams a day.)

In America, one of the major culprits is the fructose in soda drinks. One 20oz bottle of soda typically contains 6oz of sugar - that is 170 grams. That is three times the recommended daily sugar intake in one disastrous hit, and yet many Americans drink one or more of these bottles every day of their lives.

Analysis of the argument against added sugar in the diet is complicated. Sugar is glucose plus fructose. Glucose is the body’s preferred energy source. It is also called blood sugar. The body processes most carbohydrates into glucose either to be used immediately for energy, or to be stored in muscle cells or the liver as glycogen for later use.

It’s the fructose that is the problem. Fructose is a sugar found naturally in fruits and vegetables and is added to various beverages such as soda and fruit-flavoured drinks. Fructose is only metabolised in the liver. High intakes of dietary fructose behave more like fat in the body leading to fatty liver, diabetes and heart disease.

A sugar-laden diet has been shown to raise the risk of dying of heart disease even if you aren’t overweight,

a major new Harvard Health study has indicated. So, natural sugars in fruit and vegetables are good for us, but we must be vigilant to avoid added fructose in a wide number of processed foods. I was staggered to find that even good old Sanitarium Weetbix contains some sugar - certainly less than 5gm per serving, but sugar I didn’t expect to find at all. Other breakfast serials are chock full of added sugar, including many popular ones.

The sugar industry has not given in, and continues to fight back using the old tobacco industry methods: “the research is unclear, more study is needed.” They also continue to buy researchers to produce the results they want. As Dr Lustig, a leading authority on pediatric obesity at the University of California says, “The science is in, but the industry is going to fight tooth and nail to prevent that science from translating into public policy.” The increase in sugar intake parallels the increase in obesity, diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, heart disease and cancer, one or other of which now affects one third of Americans.

While most of the studies and arguments in this article refer to American studies and statistics, we can be sure that New Zealand is going down the same deadly road, encouraged by deceitful public relations from the sugar industry itself. Objective scientists are not fooled, and the whole sorry saga should if nothing else, encourage us to check our sources of information to ensure it is not tainted by industry misinformation and lies.

We should all check the contents of everything we eat, (I know it takes time), and try to avoid processed foods, especially those with additives, preservatives and food colouring. Our lives and those of our children are at stake. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN

BILL RALSTON HAS HIS SAY...

Hello, I’m Bill Ralston and I am running to be the Auckland Councillor for Waitemata and Gulf Ward in the October elections.

It is time to change our existing council. It patently cannot cope with the problems and the demands that our city currently faces. Auckland has big problems except the biggest problem is that the city is experiencing explosive growth and this is really an asset. To cope with this growth the council needs to solve three problems.

How do we finance the infrastructure we need to cope with this growth?

We need to explore much more innovative and creative ways to raise the capital we need. Raising loans and rates is not the only answer.

Labour’s Phil Twyford recently suggested the issuing of Infrastructural Bonds, paid for by the new areas being developed as part of the cost of that development. It is a good idea and the council needs to investigate it fully.

KPMG recently suggested an Infrastructural Fund where the productive assets of the city are put into a fund and that a Mixed Ownership Model of the fund could eventually be created to release the necessary capital for development and help keep the revenue stream intact. It is a good idea and council needs to investigate it, too.

28 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

It is not a question of ideologies but finding what works for the city.

If elected as a councillor for your ward I pledge to you that over the next three years:

How do we unclog our congested traffic?

We need a huge investment programme in public transport: more buses, more bus-ways, more ferries, more cycle-ways, more rail, and Auckland Transport needs to get moving on providing light rail in places such as Dominion Road. There is no one answer. Better roads, better rail, better public transport can work together to unclog our streets and get us from one side of the city to the other in reasonable time.

• I will not vote for any residential rate average increase of more than 2% • I will vote to cut at least $500 million in waste over the remainder of the council’s 10-year budget to 2025 • I will vote to cap staff numbers and reduce staff costs by up to 10% over the next three years • I will work to find new ways to fund Auckland’s infrastructural deficit and keep an open mind as to how this can be done • I will work to dramatically improve and enhance our public transport network • I will oppose any further encroachment by industry, including the Ports of Auckland, into the Waitemata Harbour.

How do we create affordable housing to accommodate our huge population growth?

The only way to solve this is to build more dwellings houses and apartments. We need to not only intensify along main arterial transport routes, around the city’s 10 town/city centres and transport hubs but also open up our rural urban boundaries to allow more subdivisions.

Auckland Council also needs to streamline its consenting processes and keep in check the costs of development to keep house prices down.

Barely 35% of us bothered to vote at the last election.

I urge you, even if you don’t vote for me, please, just vote PN this September and October. F www.ralston2016.co.nz www.facebook.com/BillRalstonforWaitemata PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

Your next Auckland Council needs

Greater Accountability.

Tighter Control on Spending.

Clear Thinking.

For more about what I have to offer visit www.ralston2016.co.nz or

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29

LOCAL NEWS COUNTDOWN’S FIRST PREMIUM STORE OPENS IN PONSONBY Countdown’s newest supermarket was officially opened last month by the Hon Nikki Kaye, with 2200 new products on offer in the company’s first premium store.

Countdown Ponsonby is the first retailer to open in the $120 million Vinegar Lane and Cider development, with the wider retail development expected to be completed in the coming months.

Speaking at the opening, Minister Kaye says the new store is a welcome addition to the area, and she knows it will be very well received by those who live and work in Ponsonby.

“The new supermarket has been much anticipated and it’s exciting that the first stage of the development is now open to the public. It’s fantastic that this new Countdown has resulted in around 100 new jobs, and I know that Ponsonby locals are going to love having a new store just nearby,” says Hon Nikki Kaye.

The new supermarket boasts a deli section with cut and wrapped cheeses, a focus on loose organic produce, along with specialist food and wine experts on hand to offer tips and advice. There are also 450 new products in the health foods and wellness section alone, reflecting the local customer base increasingly looking for health and wellness at the supermarket.

Among the 100 new team members are food specialists Jared Adlam, Kerri Lamb, and Tom Allison, who have extensive experience in the food industry. Joining the foodies at Countdown Ponsonby is Anton Fedorchenko, Ponsonby’s wine specialist.

• Jared Adlam has worked as a qualified chef in a variety of roles. Before joining the Ponsonby team Jared was Senior Sous Chef at Ascension Winery in Matakana.

• Kerri Lamb’s experience in seafood stems from his time working on an island off Queensland. He moved back to New Zealand and started his own catering company before joining Countdown.

• Tom Allison was an apprentice at Soul Bar and Bistro, before moving to an exclusive gourmet deli in Melbourne. His time in Melbourne has set him up to help Ponsonby customers with specialty foods and ways to prepare them.

• Ponsonby’s wine specialist, Anton Fedorchenko, is an experienced sommelier. His background and passion for wine comes from his time working in Russia, Switzerland, Australia and New Zealand. Anton is excited to impart his wine knowledge with his customers.

Dave Chambers, Nikki Kaye and Jennifer Northover Countdown Ponsonby Store Manager, Jason McQuoid, says he and his team are very excited to finally share their store with their customers.

“I’m passionate about the food and beverage industry, and as someone who spends a lot of time in Ponsonby, I’m also very proud and excited about the offer we’ve designed for our new customers here.

“Our new food and wine experts are going to be a hit with our customers. Our specialists will provide customers with advice on choosing and preparing specialist food, along with offering expert matching suggestions,” says McQuoid.

Countdown Managing Director, Dave Chambers, says that Countdown Ponsonby is an exciting store for the business, as their most premium and unique store yet.

“Customers can still expect to find our usual products at everyday low prices, but they will also get to enjoy the massive range of new and exciting products that have been sourced with our Ponsonby customers in mind,” Chambers says.

The new Ponsonby store will join Countdown’s Food Rescue programme, supporting The Salvation Army, and Fair Food. The programme has donated $3.5 million worth of food PN to food banks around New Zealand in the last year. F

Everall Deans, Pippa Coom, Viv Rosenberg and Shale Chambers

Debra White and Shale Chambers

Leanne Moore and Jennifer Northover

photography: Martin Leach

Jason McQuoid and Nikki Kaye

30 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JULY 2016

Countdown Ponsonby is now open!

Countdown Ponsonby opened its doors on 2 June and within the short space of a month it’s already made a mark on the local food scene. Feedback from our new customers has been overwhelmingly positive.

This is a Countdown like no other and features: • a wide range of salads and meal options for lunch or dinner to go X [\c` j\Zk`fe fí\i`e^ Zlk Xe[ niXgg\[ cheeses • an expanded health foods and wellness section with 450 new products d\Xk Xe[ j\X]ff[ j\Zk`fej fí\i`e^ X cXi^\ number of new and exciting lines

Introducing Store Manger, Jason McQuoid

X YXb\ip fí\i`e^ X iXe^\ f] Xik`jXe Yi\X[j and Rocket Kitchen cakes, a Ponsonby institution

Jason has been with Countdown for 13 years and began by cleaning down the butchery section at Woolworths Paraparaumu, as it was then.

• a fruit and vegetable section with a focus on loose produce including organic products.

From these humble beginnings, Jason has progressed through the company and is excited about his role as Store Manager.

“I’m passionate about the food and beverage industry, and as someone who spends a lot of time in Ponsonby, I’m also very proud and excited about the offer we’ve designed for our customers here. Countdown Ponsonby is Countdown’s Êijk gi\d`ld jkfi\ Xe[ @ g\ijfeXccp `em`k\ you to come down and check it out. My team and I look forward to welcoming you.”

Thank you for your support during construction We’d like to thank you for your patience and support during construction of the new Countdown supermarket and the Cider Building, which is due to open soon.

We appreciate it can be challenging living close to a construction site and have worked hard to minimise any impacts on our neighbours.

DEIRDRE THURSTON: ON MY MIND

LIFE’S PURPOSE - every life is precious Last week, I experienced a connection with a baby bird that humbled me in this sad, mad, beautiful life.

Returning home from a coffee with a friend - a euphemism for two glasses of tepid water with limp lemon slices for me and a cup of tea for her - I wandered up the driveway congratulating myself on two counts: I’d not spent a cent (most unusual) and I’d walked, not driven.

And there in front of me at the top of my driveway I was confronted with four dead baby birds. Wings akimbo. Grey fluff wisping in a light wind. Tears pricked my eyes as I looked down on death. I scanned the sky for bereft parents. Then I heard it: a distraught wheeze behind me. Turning back I noticed a wee mound of pink, goosebumped, bloodied skin under-dressed in a weak promise of thickening fluff. Alive. Oh hell, what to do? I stared and, I’m ashamed to say, wished it a last, quick gasp.

I knew just how it felt. We’ve all been tossed from our nests and left shocked and wounded in scary, unfamiliar territory. Crying out for help, desperate to be whisked away to safety.

Eventually, I picked it up, cradling the poor cold mite in my hands. Upstairs, I settled it in tissues - reeking of eucalyptus - on top of a pink, fake-fur-swathed hot water bottle and circled the room wondering what the best course of action was. Put it out of its misery?

Over in seconds. Couldn’t. Try and feed it? No dropper. Too tiny anyway. It rasped and gasped and broke my heart. Only one thing for it: The Bird Rescue Centre on the other side of town. Hottie and bird settled among tissues inside a Tupperware container in car, I drove and prayed to Archangel Michael and St Francis, in fact any being on the radar, to please keep the darling alive and give it a chance.

I shoved aside the fact it was bleeding, battered, terrified and likely to expire any moment. The half-hour drive, complete with prayers and me attempting to whistle bird -like consolation and mother-love, proceeded with several traffic violations and a sense of hope. A sense of connection. That bird and I were one. I truly believed it understood I was trying to help. It’s little heart continued to beat against all odds as I arrived at the sanctuary and carried it carefully to the entrance.

“Hello, anyone here?”

“Hello. Come in...”

Opening the door my eyes darted around and saw no one. “Hello?”

“Hello.”

A large galah with a featherless chest greeted me again as a woman strode in knocking over a cage with a love bird in it. “Shit. You’re okay, Sandy. Back on your perch.” She approached me and I held out my pecked bird. “Oh, he’s a parrot. Been attacked.

Probably by tuis. Thanks for bringing him in."

"Will he live?” She sized me and my sensitivities up: “Maybe. We’ll try. Come on sweetie, let’s sort you out.” I grinned in relief - I'd love a cuppa - then realised she meant the bird, not me. “Please, keep the hottie.”

“Thanks.”

And off she went with my bird. My bird. He had survived an attack, a cold driveway, a woman circling her lounge wondering what to do and a car ride from hell. What a fighter.

I imagine him swallowing teensy bugs and droplets of warmed sugar water. Sleeping in warmth and comfort reminiscent of his nest. He will forget his siblings’ dead bodies, his mother’s protective wings and the terror of car tyres bumping over roads. He will grow strong and sing as he is released to fly free. Maybe he will whistle my tune.

My lesson is one of gratitude and place in life. We are all as one. Every person, shell, bird, wave is connected in some way. Every heart beats pure. Love and kindness are our precious gifts to give and receive. No matter how small.

When I came across the scene in my driveway, I first thought: “Oh no, I wish someone else had to deal with this.” Now I am grateful for the opportunity which has refilled my love and compassion cups and, funnily enough, my purpose.

I am only one small part of this enigmatic world. And our purpose is love.

PN (DEIRDRE THURSTON) F

MARU NIHONIHO-OZYURTERI HONOURED FOR HER WORK Ponsonby local Maru Nihoniho-Ozyurteri, who has lived in the Ponsonby and Freemans Bay areas for more than twenty years, was awarded Member of New Zealand Order of Merit on Queen’s Birthday weekend for her services to the gaming industry and mental health.

Her company Metia Interactive worked alongside the University of Auckland to help develop Sparx, an online game designed to help teenagers coping with depression.

She says she hopes to continue to develop games that are meaningful, therapeutic or training based.

The game is a world first and after going through successful clinical trial, making it the first game ever to be trialled, Sparx was released in 2008 on PC. Since then it has gone on to win multiple awards - the United Nations award and the UNESCO award - and was the first game to have a report published in a medical journal.

“As long as someone gets something from them, I’m happy.” (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN www.sparx.org.nz

“A computerised, cognitive behavioural therapy program, SPARX, was an effective resource for help-seeking adolescents with depression at primary healthcare sites,” says the report published in the British Medical Journal. “Use of the program resulted in a clinically significant reduction in depression, anxiety, hopelessness and an improvement in quality of life.”

Although the target audience of the game is teenagers aged 13 - 19, the game has shown good success in adults older than that, too, and in 2014 an online version of the game was released, making it far more accessible to everybody. It's possible the game may come to Smartphones in the future.

A similar upcoming project of Maru’s is the development of Cube 2, a game designed to test and develop cognitive awareness.

“Although trials are needed to prove this, the game is a world that flips and turns and hopefully develops spatial and cognitive awareness,” says Maru.

32 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

Maru Nihoniho-Ozyurteri PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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JACINDA ARDERN: LABOUR LIST MP AUCKLAND

Doing our bit Recently I was lucky enough to speak to at the 100th anniversary of the RSA's National Women's Association.

One hundred years ago, New Zealand women recognised that the war was creating hardship, and they did something about it. Whether it was writing newsletters for the families of prisoners of war so they knew what was happening to their loved ones, putting on parties for children, or visiting the sick, they built a community around people in a time of need.

According to World Vision, more than 4.6 million Syrians have fled their homeland because of the conflict. That’s more than the entire population of New Zealand.

At the end of my talk there was a lively question and answer session and I was asked about New Zealand’s refugee intake. It was a good question, and in many ways, speaks to the issue of community and hardship that I was there to talk about.

But our current refuge quota is 750 a year. The Government has made a decision to raise that quota by 250 in 2018, but plenty of people do not believe that is enough.

In fact, 20,000 people have signed a petition calling on the Government to double the number of refugees New Zealand accepts.

I’ve always believed that at our heart, New Zealanders are fair minded, and we recognise need when we see it, even if it’s not on our back door step. We have been a leading voice for compassion and human rights - and that’s something to be proud of.

But as I write there are literally millions of women, men and children facing the challenge of having to flee their homelands and seek refuge where ever they are able. In fact, the world is in the middle of the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II. It was World Refugee Day recently, and at an event on the forecourt of parliament a refugee spoke to the crowd who gathered to tell them that "refugees do not have choices." Anyone who saw the news footage of hundreds of thousands of refugees streaming into Europe on foot, so desperate to escape they were prepared to leave everything behind, will know that’s true.

I understand that when we’re half a world away, it can seem like anything we do will be minor and futile. But not for the people we welcome.

Groups involved in the resettlement process say they have the resources needed to cope with the extra workload. Yes, there are issues - such as housing, child poverty and health underfunding that absolutely must also be tackled. But we simply need the political will to deal with these domestic issues, and do our bit as international citizens as well.

For every refugee New Zealand opens its doors to, we are repaid in multiple by the contribution they do and will make to our country.

New Zealand is a small country but we can make a big difference on the world stage when we lead by example, and when we do the right thing. We can and should PN #doublethequota. (JACINDA ARDERN) F JACINDA ARDERN, Labour List MP based in Auckland Central. www.jacinda.co.nz

LOCAL NEWS PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE NEWS Ponsy Kids Preschool • 20 ECE funded hours.

• New session times developed to meet the needs of our community.

A very special visitor There was a lot of excitement in our preschool this month when a very special visitor had made its way into our garden. The children had spotted a baby hedgehog in our garden. There was much fascination and curiosity as many of the children had never seen a real live hedgehog before. There were many questions to answer as the children watched the hedgehog. We fed the baby some milk and bread and gently moved it back into the bushes where we thought it may have come from.

Later we researched some facts about hedgehogs and talked about the threat they pose to our insects. The children were sad to hear that hedgehogs love to eat our weta. We also learnt that the hedgehog should have been hibernating for the winter.

As teachers we encourage children to develop an understanding of the natural world.

Wonderful experiences like this enable children to develop environmental awareness and knowledge.

Ponsy Kids is a non-profit community preschool which operates out of the Ponsonby Community Centre. We have a range of sessions available for children aged two-four years.

Contact details are: julie@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz; T: 09 376 0896

• • • • • •

Class focused on children up to four years 40-minute class divided into warm-up activity, main activity, and cooling down.

The instruments are provided at the class.

There will be music available and related material to take home provided by the tutor.

Classes on Tuesdays, around 10am. $10 per class / $80 X 10 class concession ('drop-in')

School Holiday Programmes Both our venues provide fantastic School Holiday Programmes for children in July.

At Leys Institute Gymnasium Hall we have Gym Kids Gymnastics running Monday to Thursday 9am to 4pm both weeks. At Ponsonby Community Centre we have Young at Art running creative art programmes for our children, visit Young At Art website for more information - www.youngatart.co.nz. Enrol your children now so that they don’t miss out on all the fun.

PONSONBY COMMUNITY CENTRE PROGRAMMES: Preschool music classes (Little Musicians) We have Antonio running weekly preschool music class at Ponsonby Community Centre. Parents will be encouraged to participate along with their children. The music material will be played by the facilitator and the children by using a wide range of musical instruments, discovering a broad range of sounds and melodies that we will explore together.

34 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

Venue for hire We have some spaces available at Ponsonby Community Centre, if you are looking for space to run your term classes. Please contact the office for more information. F PN For more information on Ponsonby Community Centre please T: 09 378 1752, or M: 021 244 0904, E: info@ponsonbycommunity.org.nz, W: www.ponsonbycommunity.org.nz, Facebook: Ponsonby Community Centre.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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photography: George Shiers

LOCAL NEWS

CIRCABILITY YOUTH CIRCUS CHALLENGE The weather wasn’t looking good in the morning but the sun showed its face just in time for the Circability Youth Circus Challenge in Victoria Park last month.

From 1 - 5pm the workshop took over a corner of the park to teach kids a variety of circus tricks on everything from the humble hula-hoop to more advanced unicycles and trampolines. Even a small simple flag can look impressive in the right hands.

Expert trainers were on hand for anybody who needed help and advice, including Unicycle World Champions Christian Huriwai and Sam La Hood. Children made definite improvements throughout the day as they improved their balance and coordination for a variety of impressive tricks.

The event proved to be an enjoyable day out, with one parent describing it as “a great concept for this concrete jungle.”

The workshop was run by Thomas Hinz of Circability to help celebrate Youth Week, an annual event organised by Ara Taiohi. The Youth Circus Challenge was just one of a number of events run by Circability, other events including a youth art exhibition of circus entertainment, filming events in Victoria Park and even a circus all the way up in Dargaville.

Circability describe themselves as “Auckland’s community circus” and are a social arts hub who hold classes in and around their building located in Victoria Park. Weekly classes are available for all skill levels and ages from five to adult, so everybody is invited to come along, with some sessions starting at just $5. (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN CIRCABILITY, 203-271 Victoria Park, Victoria Street West, T: 09 361 3801, www.communitycircus.co.nz

POP DOGS POP Dogs was, after being postponed a couple of times due to bad weather, finally held in Victoria Park last month, providing a fun day out for both dogs and their owners.

Despite so many overexcited dogs coming together in such a small area, fights were few and far between and the POP team managed to keep the event well under control.

The day was organised by artists Olivia Young and Paris Kirby as a day to celebrate having dogs in public spaces. Owners were encouraged to bring their pets along for a free professional photograph and, if needed, a check-up from an onsite vet. For humans, food was available from the Elsie food truck selling coffees, cheese and date scones and a large selection of sweet and savoury croissants.

“POP Dogs was a community-inclusive event to celebrate the dogs of Auckland,” says Olivia. “We wanted to capture the ‘fourth’ family member in an innovative, new way via photographing dogs in the park. It’s also a nice way to give back to the community.”

“POP is designed to explore creative and innovative ways of engaging people, and POP Dogs aimed to achieve surprise and delight, art in a public space, and encouraging Aucklanders to connect with each other in new and unexpected ways.” Said Olivia.

As well as organising this event, Olivia runs an arts consultancy called The Maple, where she manages and promotes bands, artists, place-making projects and art-related activations around New Zealand and further afield.

“Arts and artists come first in my world, so I look after the paperwork and organisational guff to help them do what they do best.” (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN

photography: George Shiers

More than 500 people came to Victoria Park to have their pets photographed throughout the morning, making the event a huge success. “It was a fantastic day out for the community and we hope to continue sharing these dog events around Auckland,” says Olivia.

POP is funded by the Waitemata Board and is all about art activation around Auckland city. A particularly popular project is the table tennis tables that appear in public spaces around Auckland, available free 24/7 for anybody who fancies a game.

36 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

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JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

Who will be our new mayor?

Ponsonby News asks candidates some questions about policy. We asked mayoral candidates Vic Crone, Phil Goff and John Palino, six questions to test their policies on issues we think Auckland voters are particularly interested in. Here are their answers.

What would you cut to save rates?

What is your attitude to Central Government interference in Auckland affairs?

CRONE: Firstly, I’ll review council and CCO spending line-by-line and realign it with council priorities. Reducing duplication and unnecessary back-office processes will stop yearly council staff blowouts.

GOFF: We need to cut duplication and waste, achieve greater efficiency and do more with less. We need best practice in areas like procurement and creating a less bureaucratic and top heavy culture.

PALINO: Curb spending and seek efficiencies by: reducing non core and wasteful spending, reducing spending on discretionary activities-reduce payroll costs from 27% to nearer 20%, conduct a full review of council spending with cost savings passed on to ratepayers.

Will you propose a sell off of assets? If so, which?

CRONE: Asset sales aren’t part of my current policy platform. Given council’s current position and the growth we face, we need a good discussion on all forms of smart revenue gathering.

CRONE: Getting council working better and delivering what it should means there’s less need for government interference. Secondly, council must have a strong relationship with any government to get substantial government investment. Government will be reluctant to do this if council can’t prove it can deliver quality projects within budget and deadline.

GOFF: Central and local government have to work together. We need strong and experienced leadership to ensure central government responsiveness and to reject silly threats about imposing commissioners.

PALINO: It is good to see that both Labour and National parties agree with my vision for growth and opening up the boundary. I think central government took too long to step in. Council have had this wrong from the beginning. Please read my E-book which covers the problems facing Auckland. www.palinoformayor.co.nz/book Would you ban the use of Roundup or other glyphosates in our reserves and on our street berms?

CRONE: I’d like to see the analysis.

GOFF: I am opposed to selling strategic assets like shares in the Auckland Airport and Watercare. Sale of minor assets surplus to needs is normal business. We might need to look at big assets like the half a billion dollar Remuera Golf Course upgrade, which benefits only a few.

PALINO: I am neither ideologically for nor against asset sales. It should depend on the asset and its yield. If an asset is producing a good return - keep it. If it’s not returning at least the borrowing cost sell it.

Please give me a couple of sentences on population intensification.

CRONE: Growth is a great problem to have and cities across the globe are experiencing skyrocketing population growth. We can’t afford to fall behind and lose out on talent and investment. Our planning must keep us ahead of these trends with good forecasting and smart flexible solutions.

GOFF: With the population growing by 700,000, Auckland has to go up and out without destroying heritage or high value land like Pukekohe. Prerequisites for intensification are good urban design, supporting infrastructure and open public spaces. Intensification should be around town and transport hubs and main arterial routes.

PALINO: Intensification is only meant for CBD areas and transport hubs, never suburbs.

Intensification in suburbs causes traffic congestion, over-loaded schools, playgrounds and pressure on emergency services. When planning growth, we need to be sure the public has the opportunity to create business, keeping people closer to work and transport.

Vic Crone

38 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

Phil Goff

GOFF: If the evidence justifies it.

PALINO: I will rely on experts’ opinions.

Please give me one sentence on our housing problems and one on transport issues.

CRONE: We should Increase housing supply with more land, less urban restrictions and efficient consenting. Transport must be integrated, future focused and aligned with growth areas.

GOFF: We need to increase land supply and new home builds, lessen demand by curbing speculation and easing migration pressures and get the Government to commit to supplying more affordable and social housing. If the $3 billion currently wasted on lost productivity from gridlock was spent on rail, light rail, bus ways, cycle ways and walkways, we could start to deal with our congestion problem.

PALINO: We need more park and rides and better transport infrastructure. The number one problem today is council’s ideological growth plan of intensifying suburbs and not opening up the boundary.

It is critical that Aucklanders study candidates’ policy statements and vote. Please remember that if you have not bothered to bone up on the issues and checked what candidates think should be done on important issues like those above, you have no right to complain if councillors and board members don’t do what you think they should.

(JOHN ELLIOTT) F PN

John Palino PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JOHN ELLIOTT: LOCAL NEWS

GREY LYNN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Council still using poisonous weed spray

The Grey Lynn Business Association (GLBA) is a group of passionate advocates championing Grey Lynn businesses.

Close to one hundred people met in the community hall in Mt Eden last month to talk about the council’s decision to increase the use of the controversial chemical glyphosate (an active ingredient in Roundup), used for vegetation control.

Members include small-business owners and solopreneurs who embrace the unique qualities that doing business in Grey Lynn brings.

Always open to new members, the GLBA has gone from strength to strength since its journey began in 2010. What motivates someone to join the GLBA? Quite simply it’s because you will find a relaxed, interesting bunch of genuine people with shared values working towards making a difference within their community.

And it’s an exciting time to be doing business in Grey Lynn. You just have to look at the number of cranes along Great North Road’s ridgeline to see dramatic signs of progress and modernisation in the community. The progressive GLBA has seized the opportunity to be part of the process of change.

Some of those in attendance have been campaigning for over 20 years to get this chemical banned due to scientific evidence linking glyphosate to health effects, including cancers and endocrine disruption, in humans, animals and the environment.

Many signed an Open Letter to council promising to stop the spray of the chemical themselves, if the council does not ban it immediately.

Georgina Blackmore, spokesperson for the group Spray Free Streets, says people are “more than frustrated” that Auckland Council is ignoring the issue.

As well as taking an active advocacy role with the Auckland Council and Auckland Transport, the passionate volunteers who run GLBA have created some key activities.

With the help of Megan Rees, the GLBA’s talented part-time coordinator, the association has launched:

“This open letter is not a symbolic gesture nor an empty threat. We have sent dozens of petitions, made thousands of submissions, we’ve asked and requested for 20 years and still use of these dangerous chemicals is on the increase. We are far from giving up. We will take all non-violent action necessary to protect our city, it’s people and our environment,” Blackmore added.

Networking Drinks Why not pop along to the next GLBA networking drinks? You’ll find a networking event like no other; enjoy meeting fellow business owners, discover collaboration opportunities and be part of a like-minded group fondly referred to as having a ‘Grey Lynn state of mind’. You don’t need to live or work in Grey Lynn to be part of this eclectic bunch.

Blackmore is a second-generation campaigner on this issue, following on from her mother’s work with the group Weed Management Advisor. Two of the topline objections of the Weed Management Policy are to “minimise agricultural use” and “ensure best practice in weed management and vegetation control.”

Business Seminars GLBA’s annual Winter Wake Up Series features business practitioners who generously share their expertise covering marketing for small business, creating a healthy work place through to mastery of social media. These seminars are free to GLBA members and $30 for non-members who are encouraged to come along.

Sustainability Projects The GLBA is currently working with Grey Lynn 2030’s RePurpose initiative to create and promote upcycling into the mainstream. Think tyres made into dog beds and billboards into colourful funky buntings. The first RePurpose event, Trash to Trade, will be piloted this year. GLBA is looking for businesses with waste that can go from trash to something tradeable.

Street Events The Sustainability Walking Tour in 2015 was a huge hit, showcasing successful like-minded Grey Lynn businesses embracing sustainable business practices to inspire and encourage other local businesses. GLBA’s street events in the retail areas are interactive fun for both businesses and the community.

Like the Ponsonby News, the GLBA believes in making strong connections with the community. If this sounds like the kind of business association you’d like to belong to, contact info@GLBAco.nz info@GLBA.co.nz or visit GLBA.co.nz

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Despite bans overseas and despite members of the public suffering ill-effects and despite strong local opposition, the council has increased agrichemical use and shut down any recourse to democratic procedure.

Green Party MP, Steffan Browning was at the Mt Eden meeting and said the Auckland Council is hiding behind an industry-driven EPA (Environmental Protection Authority) approval of the chemical. Browning told the meeting that “not a single country, city or council overseas that has banned or restricted glyphosate did it at the bequest of their EPA.” Other countries are citing the dangers and investing in healthy, effective alternatives for vegetation control, right now, according to Browning.

The Open Letter demands that all Auckland councillors, local board members, and all prospective council and mayoral candidates standing in the 2016 election, respond to the letter stating their position on the use of chemical vegetation control, so that it is a matter of public record.

Blackmore goes on to say “we demand to know which of our representatives are sympathetic and sensible people and which ones are Chemical Cheerleaders. I’m looking forward to reading their responses.”

The Open Letter was presented at the Governing Body meeting of the council on 30 June. The spraying of this dangerous chemical which is poisoning Aucklanders, must PN end. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F Readers can check out cities, countries and provinces from around the world who have banned the use of glyphosates at www.sprayfreestreets.nz

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VIVE LA FRANCE FOLK AT THE OLD FOLKS ASSOCIATION MUSIC GIGS Finn McLennan-Elliott, Ponsonby News music editor, runs music gigs at the Auckland Old Folks Association Hall in Newton.

He has a winter series running over four months.

Along with friends who love live music, we joined about 50 others on a cool Saturday evening to hear three groups.

A FRENCHWOMAN IN WESTMERE

What great value! Just $20 for about two and a half hours of entertainment. As my friend from Devonport remarked, “They were worth $20 each those groups - at least.”

CAROLE ZINK IS A DIRECTOR OF FRENCH TRAVEL AGENCY FROGS-IN-NZ, BRINGING French-speaking travellers to visit New Zealand. “There’s not a single day where I don’t tell myself as a French person, how fortunate I am to live and work in such a fantastic neighborhood. The irony is that our office (since 2004), is located in Pompallier Terrace opposite Bishop Pompallier Reserve, which of course is named after the French bishop Jean-Baptiste!

First up was Dave Alley, a real guitar virtuoso, with a funky collection of his own songs.

One that got lots of laughs was about his old car, with the chorus of 'XY 3537', obviously the number plate. Other quirky numbers were well received. Dave is a very versatile artist - as well as guitar he plays percussion. His music is genre defying, with roots, blues, rock, reggae and folk all part of his varied repertoire. Dave was accompanied by Rod Redgrave on bass.

Raising my two boys as bilingual, I’m so grateful we have Richmond Road school at our doorstep where they go to the French unit l’Archipel. We have great local shops where I can find French products when I feel homesick and want to cook our favourite boeuf bourguignon, or poulet aux olives. Even the local butcher is able to say two or three words in French - bonjour, ca va?

For delicious French crepes I go to the fab truck at the Grey Lynn Community Centre on Sunday mornings. But for fresh bread I don’t need to go anywhere as I have the best husband in the world who bakes his own Poilane-inspired sourdough bread which is tastier than most French baguettes!” F PN Frogs-in-NZ www.frogs-in-nz.com

Next up were two Year 12 boys from Western Springs College, who are beginning to make a name for themselves around town - Louis and Julius. These two sing country classics, plus a few original songs. They were formerly part of the group Glory Days.

During a short break, Finn and his team put on nice warm drinks, cookies (mostly home -baked), and a glass of wine. Next month, the whisper is, that mulled wine will be on the menu.

The main item of the evening was from The Pipi Pickers. This group is a four piece featuring vocalist and bassist Jenine Abarbanel Torkington, originally from Oklahoma, her husband Nathan Torkington on five string bango, Nathan’s father Barry Torkington on guitar, and mandolin virtuoso Garry Bigwood - a real family of artists. The rocking picking fingers, bringing cool blue grass rhythms was loved by the audience. The music was complemented by beautiful singing from Jenine. Someone described it as bangolicious bluegrass music - and it was.

Next gig at the Old Folks is on 24 July 24 at 8pm. This will feature The Miltones and a Wellington duo Frank Burkitt and bassist James Geluk.

The Miltones are fresh from opening for Mick Fleetwood. They are a five piece band from West Auckland and will offer an upbeat, and more rocky conclusion to the night than most folk at the Old Folks.

Frank Burkitt hails originally from Scotland. He will perform new and old songs, covers, and will tell his hilarious stories. Frank knows how to make you laugh; the audience will be well entertained.

If you are looking for a good night out - always finished by about 11pm - I’m sure you’ll love the gigs at the Old Folks Association, in Gundry Street, Newton. You will be supporting local, New Zealand talent, and I can assure you Finn knows where to find PN good talent for his gigs. (JOHN ELLIOTT) F

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

VIVE LA FRANCE @ FRENCH COUNTRY OUTLET STORE 1. Hand blown and hand cut glass vases in a deep teal colour. Each vase is slightly irregular, which adds to the unique charm and individuality of the item. Priced from $5-$20 2. Montecristo Dining Chair in a camel-coloured leather. The exposed framing gives the chair character and uniqueness, $995 3. Oval and round gold Gypsy mirrors with a circular cut out design border, $50 each 4. Embrace geometrics with these ceramic marbled angular vases. Large $10 / Small $5 from French Country Outlet Store 5. Oval Parquet dining table crafted from solid oak with a light weathered finish, 258cm L x 90cm W x 77cm H, $1990 from French Country Outlet Store

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FRENCH COUNTRY OUTLET STORE, 8 Pollen Street, T: 09 376 7585, www.frenchcountry.co.nz

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VIVE LA FRANCE LUXURIOUS THINGS FOR THE HOME @ LE MONDE Le Monde is French for ‘The World’ and reflects the products that make up the collection sourced from all over the globe.

Noelle and Craig Davies launched into the homeware industry 12 years ago. Three years after starting out, they opened a retail showroom Le Monde Home in Parnell. So after a successful nine years, it seemed a natural progression to open another store in the fast-growing and developing Ponsonby retail sector.

Just over a year ago, a former mechanics workshop in Pollen Street became available and it was decided this would be the perfect location for the new store. Noelle and Craig joined forces with their daughter Jess Graham; co-owner and day-to-day manager.

“We love watching Ponsonby grow. With more stores surrounding us, the area is developing into a place of discovery. As a family business, we don’t underestimate the privilege of being part of the wider Ponsonby community. It’s definitely been a year of hard work but I’m proud of this store. I think it has a great ambience and reflects the Le Monde brand.”

Jess adds, “Although some might say that it is best not to work with family, I actually love that aspect of the business. You will often find my three-and-a-half-year-old in store greeting customers on the weekend, or my husband working on the accounts. It’s definitely been a team effort.”

42 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

photography: Martin Leach

Located opposite the new Cider development where Countdown has recently opened, Jess says, “When I think back on the reality of launching a business in amongst such major construction work, I think we were a bit ambitious but sometimes you have to make the most of the opportunities as they present themselves. Regardless of the chaos that has surrounded us the feedback has been so supportive! Our customers often say they would love to move in.

Noelle Davies, Jess Graham and Craig Davies The old mechanic’s workshop is now home to gorgeous throws, luxurious cushions and furniture, warm lighting, accessories and giftware with free covered car parks underneath the store so you don’t get wet on these winter days.

Le Monde is also a stockist of the now global phenomenon, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint - a versatile ultra-matte finish product that doesn’t require priming or sanding and can be painted on almost any surface, including fabric. Open 7 days from 10am. F PN LE MONDE PONSONBY, 36 Pollen Street, T: 09 376 2993, www.le-monde.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

VIVE LA FRANCE THE WINTER TABLE IN STORE AT UN DEUX TROIS French Country Collections' latest Winter Table is a moody look - inspired by rustic French ‘Manoir’ country houses and celebrates worn grandeur and painterly textures.

The latest dinnerware Bleu, is a unique pottery collection hand-painted in textured denim blue hues. Priced from $19.50.

The colour palette of soft denim blues and dusty greens are offset with soft gold and brass accessories, casually layered over worn wood furniture.

Laiton Brass Serveware prices from $34.50

Pablo Jug $139.00

Condiment Set $110.00 “Our colour palette for winter is darker and moodier in tune with nature, but also manages to evoke a sense of calmness and warmth.”

UN DEUX TROIS, 6 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 7588, shop online www.undeuxtrois.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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Blue and Green Vases from $59 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

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MY FAVOURITE ROOM Philippe Arregui - L’Authentique Philippe Arregui turned 43 not so long ago, and co-owns L’Authentique Charcuterie with his business partners Wade Lewis and Guillaume Desmurs.

L’Authentique makes artisan sausages, parfaits and terrine - as they say, "Made in New Zealand by Imported Frenchmen". Philippe says, “While I am one of those imported Frenchmen, I am very proud to now be a Kiwi, too - my residency came through earlier this year. We had a great party!”

Philippe comes from the Basque country in France. He’s the third generation of charcutier in his family. He’s at pains to clarify, “While we are a French business, I am Basque foremost.” He says, “I’ve lived here in New Zealand for six years now and I love and enjoy every day in your country. We are celebrating 10 years of being in business this year too! We have a lot to celebrate. And the French way is to do this - always - with good food and wine, and friends.”

Philippe lives with Maria Gabriela Tufare on College Hill, in Freemans Bay; the couple have been on College Hill for almost three years. The L’Authentique factory is walking distance away in Newton and Philippe, Maria and the L’Authentique team enjoy long Friday lunches there: “We share an aperitif and a simple meal together... it is the French way and an important tradition at L’Authentique.”

Philippe’s favourite room is “The terrace: my relaxing and enjoying spot.” It’s used to spend great moments: having a drink, cooking, eating and sharing all of that with Maria and some friends. “We watched the All Blacks beat Wales from here last weekend.” It’s his favourite room because it's a spot full of happiness, with amazing memories.

And Philippe’s favourite things in the room? “My barbecue - with my sausages cooking on it. A beer or a glass of wine in my hand, my transat chair and my hibiscus.” F PN

EUROPEAN ANTIQUES – NEW COLLECTIONS FROM ACROSS EUROPE It has been a hive of activity at the showrooms of European Antiques in Grey Lynn as the latest container is unpacked.

Owner Meredith Lee says she works very hard at making sure the stock collections are varied so there is something of interest for most tastes.

So what will peak interest in this container? “Well,” says Meredith, “my favourites would have to be the set of 11 antique biscuit barrels from the United Kingdom, a monumental crystal amethyst bowl from Belgian crystal house, Val St Lambert, a stylish 1970s leather Knolle sofa, a selection of Spanish mid century coffee tables, a pair of quirky Edwardian fire buckets and a religious altar that has travelled all the way from the Netherlands.”

Meredith has managed to get her hands on some great side tables, which are always so stylish and useful, plus beautiful silver plated champagne buckets and Val St Lambert coloured crystal wine glasses that she is always asked to source. So if you are ready for some seriously elegant partying theses items are worth checking out!

Whatever your taste is, be sure to make an appointment to visit European Antiques or have a good browse on the website. If you would like to be notified of new shipment arrivals, simply register on the website to be kept in the loop.

Meredith adds, “Just a note of thanks to Storage King Grey Lynn who picked up all my packaging. I wanted to ensure it was recycled as it will be re-used to support their good PN work with Women’s Refuge.” F EUROPEAN ANTIQUES, 21 Ariki Street, T: 09 360 9858, www.europeanantiques.co.nz

L’AUTHENTIQUE, www.lauthentique.co.nz

44 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PHIL PARKER: WHOSE WINE IS IT ANYWAY?

French Fab Four Here we go with a selection of French wines, reasonably priced and unpretentious, yet capturing the essence of their Gallic heritage.

Interestingly, only one of these is sealed with a traditional cork (the Fleurie). The Bourillon Vouvray has one of those demonic plastic corks that are nigh well impossible to extract without incurring a hernia, whereas the other two are sensibly sealed with screw caps. French wines are making a comeback after many years of overinflated prices and losing ground to producers from not only Spain and Italy but also South America, New Zealand and Australia. These four are highly recommended as good value examples of French regional wines.

1. Bourillon Dorléans Vouvray (Chenin Blanc) Loire France 2012 Demi-sec - $30 From east of the Loire region, of my favourite obscure white varieties, vouvray always delivers a complex, mouth-filling experience. This is a demi-sec, ie, off-dry to medium sweet style that smells like clover honey and pineapple juice with a whiff of funky yeast.

On the palate it’s a cocktail of flavours - from fresh cut pineapple, to toffee, ginger, mango and a hint of fennel. The finish isn’t sweet, but lingering and slightly mineral.

A good match with a veal casserole. Available: Glengarry.

It has a hint of sweetness but finishes dry and tangy. It reminds me very much of the Dry River Gewürztraminer. Typically matches well with pork.

Available: Herne Bay Cellars.

4. Albert Ponnelle Fleurie Gamay Beaujolais 2013 - $47.50 From the Beaujolais region, this is very typically French - more about savoury and spice than fruit yet quite generous and complex. Aromas of earth, smoke, sour cherry and gamey meats open up in the mouth with an initial hit of acidity and a bit of astringency. Then it’s all savoury spice, soy sauce and black cherry and a fruity ripe mid palate. The finish is savoury and dry. Nicely matched with a winter beef dish.

Available: contact Dhall & Nash wines info@dnfinewine.com (PHIL PARKER) F PN Phil Parker is a wine writer and operates Fine Wine & Food Tours in Auckland.

See: www.finewinetours.co.nz Phil’s new cellar door book ‘NZ Wine Regions - A Visitor’s Guide’ is now available on Amazon Kindle.

2. Gisselbrecht Pinot Gris Alsace 2015 - $20 From the home of ‘aromatic wines’ in Alsace on the French/German border. Smells like warm red apple skin on a sunny day, with a hint of honey and citrus blossom.

It is a rich and fruity style leaning more towards sweet than off-dry. Lovely flavours of clear apple juice, and pear and apple cake, and a little muskiness on the lengthy finish. Would match well with creamy pasta or chicken dishes. Available: Glengarry 3. Muré Gewürztraminer Alsace 2013 - $35.50 Another classic wine variety from northern France, this is a voluptuous, seductive blonde, with aromas of honey, spice and beeswax. A lovely complex palate of preserved ginger, lychee and a dash of florals - but not the usual rosewater flavours.

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FRENCH FILMS AT NZIFF Get ready for another year of great films with New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF), screening in Auckland 14 - 31 July 2016.

The full programme is available now and tickets are on sale from Ticketmaster. NZIFF is run by a charitable trust and encourages lively interactions between films, filmmakers and New Zealand audiences.

The Country Doctor France 2016 Director: Thomas Lilti In French with English subtitles French box-office star François Cluzet (The Intouchables) is a doctor reluctantly introducing a younger female trainee to his country practice in this touching and funny drama from doctor-turned-director Thomas Lilti.

Elle France/Germany 2016 Director: Paul Verhoeven In French with English subtitles Genre subversive Paul Verhoeven, director of Basic Instinct and Black Book, teams up with the great Isabelle Huppert to craft this provocative, blackly comic thriller.

The Dancer France/Belgium/Czech Republic 2016 Director: Stéphanie Di Giusto In French and English, with English subtitles French singer Soko and Lily-Rose Depp star in this exquisitely dressed, spectacularly danced drama inspired by the true story of two rival pioneers of modern dance in late 19th Century Paris.

Being 17 France 2016 Director: André Téchiné In French with English subtitles An attentive mother (Sandrine Kiberlain) intervenes unwittingly in her son’s passionate feud with another boy in this intimate, engrossing and original coming-of-age drama set in the spectacular Pyrenees.

NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, www.nziff.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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LIZ WHEADON: WINE, GLORIOUS WINE

The Rhône Valley The Rhône Valley is an historic wine region, grapes were grown in the northern part of the valley in the first century AD. In the 14th Century the papacy moved from Rome to Avignon, with their holiday residence in Châteauneuf du-Pape; today the bottles of Châteauneuf-du-Pape still wear the papal signature in various ways.

The Popes were great lovers of wine and planted vineyards around the city. Situated in south eastern France, just south of Burgundy, the Rhône wine region is 250km long, with 250 communes, starting around Avignon in the south and finishing at Lyon - France’s second largest city.

Whilst often lumped together, the appellations of the Rhône are spread out over this vast wine growing region and produce a wide variety of styles from numerous grape varieties. Climatically it is a hot region, with abundant sunshine hours suiting grape varieties that like the warmth. There are four different types of rock that make up the unique soils of the Rhône Valley: granite, sandy silica, limestone and clay. The rocks significantly retain the intense summer heat during both day and night, perfect for ripening.

The Rhône wine growing region is broken into two distinct parts, the north and the south; the majority of wines produced across both are red, with small percentages of white and rosé. The north is mainly the home of syrah and where the famed Hermitage Hill is, home to Jaboulet’s great red, La Chapelle. The white of the north is viognier, expressed particularly well in Condrieu. The south is all about blends from Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s 13 permitted varieties, to the relatively new AOC for red, Beaumes de Venise, where grenache must make up 50% of the blend, the balance syrah and mourvèdre generally.

The quality levels in the Rhône Valley are a little easier to understand than some of the neighbouring French regions. Wine produced in one of the AOC villages areas is labelled under that village, outside that wines are either generic table wine, or Côtes du Rhône and then a step up to Côtes du Rhône Villages. In 1933 Châteauneuf-du-Pape was the first of the Rhône regions to be awarded the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée status. Today there are many AOC in the Rhône, including some relative new comers: the still red wines from Rasteau, Vinsobres, and Beaumes de Venise more recently for its red wines.

In store this month we are celebrating all things French, including many exceptional wines from the Rhône Valley. Amongst the range, a new comer to New Zealand and Glengarry - Domaine Bernardins.

A family estate for five generations, winemaking began here in the 19th Century. Their reds from Beaumes de Venise are an excellent addition to our broad Rhône range and well worth seeking out.

(LIZ WHEADON) F PN www.glengarry.co.nz

46 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY CHRISTMAS IN JULY For many Kiwis a good Christmas would probably consist of a barbecue and a trip to the beach, but for many northern Europeans in New Zealand a hot Christmas in the summer simply doesn’t feel like Christmas.

A Midwinter Christmas is an annual treat held in the colder months of the year, usually July, to have a small party and roast dinner with the weather actually feeling cold, even though the chances of it snowing in Ponsonby anytime soon are well below zero. There’s no strict date or set of rules to a midwinter Christmas, it can be a day celebrated with lots friends or just close family, a big party or a tasty feast.

There’s no midwinter Father Christmas who visits but you might still get a small gift or two handed around the dinner table, a bit of tinsel here and there and maybe even a tree if you decide to go all out. Crackers at dinner are a necessity of course, provided you’ve still got some left over from December. You’d be lucky to find any in the stores.

I find a good Christmas dinner on a cold winter's day, fire blazing and jumpers on, really makes me feel at home. For me, a dinner needs a roast turkey, stuffing, potatoes, carrots, sprouts are very important, Yorkshire puddings, gravy (and lots of it), pigs in blankets and of course a nice pudding and a fruit mince pie afterwards, with your choice of custard or cream. I’m probably still forgetting a few things so don’t count that as a full list.

If you don’t fall into a food coma afterwards, a bit of afternoon TV is always welcome, and for me not being home in England means no Christmas special of Doctor Who. A new series of Top Gear has just begun, perhaps not to everybody’s taste but always entertaining, or maybe you could catch up on Coronation Street.

For those of you who miss enjoying your winter vegetables with your Christmas dinner in December, be sure to get that seasonal produce in now and stick it in the freezer.

Sprouts are especially important, you simply wont be able to find them when the warmer PN weather returns. (GEORGE SHIERS) F

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY

INSPIRING CULINARY CREATIVITY The culmination of 60 years’ experience in kitchen machines has now taken shape: Bosch, the embodiment of strength and reliability, comes to your countertop.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, the MaxxiMUM is the only appliance you’ll ever need.

A source of endless possibilities, where simple dishes are even easier and complicated banquets a breeze.

Baking with children, which at times can test your patience, is now a more enjoyable and a safer experience. The innovative 3D PlanetaryMixing accessory moves kneading hooks or whisks in three directions simultaneously. The Easy Arm lifting mechanism and Easy Fill funnel means that every step of the process is simple, and cheeky little fingers are out of the mix.

MaxxiMUM is like a Sous Chef on your bench top. Once you experience Bosch you will never want another appliance in the kitchen, and because it is Bosch it is built to last, you’ll never need to! The high-quality, full-metal housing and brushed stainless steel bowl make Bosch quality and longevity a reality. The subtle colour and high-quality metal trims are timeless and elegant.

With one of the most powerful motors on the market, an impressive 1600 watts, stiff dough is a breeze, and the intelligent sensor ensures a consistent and even mixing speed at all times.

Attention to detail is everything. Food preparation with the MaxxiMUM doesn’t just look easier - it really is. Innovative detailing integrated into cutting-edge mechanics makes food preparation even more convenient. Fast and fresh preparation is here, offering mature solutions for busy lives.

RRP MaxxiMUM is $1299 All Bosch Food Prep appliances are available at Milly’s Kitchen in store and online www.millyskitchen.co.nz For further information visit: www.bosch-home.co.nz, PN or phone 0800 807 723. F For more information please contact: The Generalist (PR), Lee Plummer, T: 09 360 2670, M: 021 677 414, E: lee@thegeneralistpr.co.nz

48 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LOKANTA - AEGEAN AND EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN COOKING Ponsonby’s first Aegean eatery exudes a special kind of happiness.

Lokanta, just opened on Richmond Road, celebrates the food and easy life of the Aegean - a region where Greek and Turkish boundaries blur, which has a wonderful pulse and beat of its own.

Locals Zeki Kizilata and Clare Hindmarsh, restaurateurs, had been keeping an eye on this site, formerly Salsa - not one minute's walk from their Ponsonby home, for nigh on 20 years before making their move, together with friends and business partners Ali and Michelle Arsan.

Lokanta gets authentic culinary credibility where a love of food is the most important ingredient in their culture. The old stomping grounds of Turks Zeki and Ali - both have had years living on the sparkling Aegean Sea, and cooking with soul in their family kitchens there. Clare's emotional affair with the region is also evident, with her design approach and thoughtful eye, creating the interior's ambience through large canvases depicting life in their village, and walls of travel and food photos that will have you pining for that simpler life we all crave.

At Lokanta the ritual is shared plates - because tasting just one dish won’t suffice. For starters try the grilled octopus with a lemon fava bean puree, the flaming haloumi, or chicken morsels with creamy walnut tarator sauce; and for large plates - the local's favourite - Aegean island style goat, braise-roasted and served with a barley and rocket risotto and pan juices. For night owls, round off with an authentically served Turkish coffee and their own left-field version of baklava.

Lokanta's menu also ticks the boxes for the Mediterranean diet, the only drawback is that you may be tempted to eat too much - it’s all so delicious! F PN Open evenings Tuesday to Saturday from 4pm.

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY KIWI QUINOA HAS ARRIVED AT SABATO Take a farmer with an itch to do something new and an agronomist with a passion for health food and what do you get? Kiwi Quinoa is the first quinoa grown in New Zealand.

Dan and Jacqui Cottrell had the idea to grow quinoa in the Rangitikei after travelling through South America and noting the quinoa-growing regions of Peru bore quite a resemblance to home. In February 2016 they harvested their first quinoa crop which is now available exclusively at Sabato.

Quinoa is an ancient super seed that is gluten free and full of goodness. It has a low GI and is high in protein, antioxidants, iron, magnesium and fibre. Unlike imported quinoa, Kiwi Quinoa is grown using sustainable farming methods and is not processed or polished, as it does not contain bitter saponins found in most other quinoa varieties.

It has a sweet, nutty flavour and delicate texture and can be used in much of the same way as whole grains. It’s easy to cook with minimal rinsing required; add 1 2/3 cup of boiling water or stock to every cup of quinoa in a saucepan, cover and simmer on a low heat for 18-20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it sit for 15 minutes and fluff with a fork.

When cooked, add roasted cubes of pumpkin, Salvagno pitted olives, Romulo capers, Sabato sundried tomatoes and a Forvm Merlot vinegar and Mas Portell clementine extra virgin olive oil dressing for a delicious healthy dish. F PN Kiwi Quinoa is now available at Sabato in-store and online www.sabato.co.nz SABATO, 57 Normanby Road, Mt Eden, T: 09 630 8751

LOKANTA, 137A Richmond Road, T: 09 360 6355, www.lokanta.nz

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JULIE BONNER: NEWS FROM FROG POND FARM It is Sunday night and I’m finally indoors after a great day in my garden. If I could, I’d pat myself on the back.

I’ve finally hauled out my chilli garden, feeling some remorse while doing so as the plants were still loaded with chillies. But the remorse was short lived, as I enjoy ripping out kikuyu and weeds which always manage to sneak into the beds. After a quick broad fork (this lifts and aerates the soil), I hopped on the ATV and zoomed off to grab some nicely composted horse poo loaded with worms and some home-made compost, awesome stuff.

As you can see it doesn’t take much to make me happy! Flinging around this organic material and then scattering about some coffee grounds, I then poked in 50 odd home -grown garlic cloves (no idea of the variety now) and a row of walking onions (to keep my seed going). As I don’t have any other space, I sowed two rows of broad beans also into this bed, shoving them into the soil at a depth of approx three times the size of the seed. I then wiped my hands on my pants as I do and stood back to assess. Good work Julie! The truth is, I must be nuts as when the beans have reached a good size they will no doubt topple over and land on my walking onions... hmmm. Still the thing about gardening is - trial and error.

We can’t forget the seaweed pellets and then some Rok Solid fertiliser that I liberally cast about the garden. Perfect, I can tick that box.

Next up the brassica garden. This bed is already boasting some home-grown seedlings, which have already doubled in size. The remainder of the bed (think half) has been sitting patiently waiting for the new arrivals. The soil in here is amazing and again loaded with worms. No doubt something to do with the food scraps which I have been burying in here on a regular basis.

So Brussels sprouts (I haven’t grown these in years) and some red cabbage seedlings were poked into holes with some worm castings, making sure that they all had breathing room, which given I always over plant, is most unlike me.

More coffee grounds which I add as a slug deterrent (fingers crossed it works) and a nitrogen fert (they are acidic though, be careful) Rok Solid and seaweed pellets. Heaven! Did I water them in? No, we live in Auckland... it won’t be long now and it will be drizzling again.

So all in all, our garden is doing well. In the next month we should be munching on kale and broccoli from another bed, juicing beetroot from the salad garden and preserving more lemons, I have two trees, which are literally smothered.

Do you grow raspberries? I don't have much success with mine I must admit. I gave them a mini trim the other day, which will no doubt mean they won’t fruit next season. Ah the joys of loving my secateurs and being hopeless with raspberries.

The sheep are still chunky and in need of a diet... fat chance now I’m afraid. Our chooks are laying which is surprising given the daylight hours, or should I say lack of.

Our olive trees are all pruned now, with the pear, quince and apple trees waiting for the end of winter. A few weeks back my ex horticulture teacher Ruth and her students dropped by, they were in need of some trees to practise their pruning technique on. As it happens, my 15-odd feijoa trees are now all looking sensational, sporting new haircuts which they were in dire need of. Thanks everyone! (JULIE BONNER) F PN If you are interested in more madness from our place, then check out my blog www.frogpondfarm.co.nz

50 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY THE CARO’S EXPERIENCE - STYLISH IN EVERY SENSE Caro’s Wines began on Ponsonby Road 21 years ago, and despite moving all the way to Parnell, they remain a most loved and frequented wine shop for many locals - winning Metro Auckland’s Best Wine Store eleven times.

Now John and Richard Caro have finally come home to the Ponsonby/Grey Lynn area. In addition to Parnell they’ve opened a gorgeous new store in Grey Lynn. The new spot boasts the full range and the usual great service. What keeps Caro’s on top is its leading import and distribution portfolio - with in-house prices on select wine producers from New Zealand, Europe, Australia and South America.

Now the second store is open, it’s clear - the Caro’s experience isn’t just about knowledge and passionate staff, it’s also about stylish retail spaces. The whole property at 14 Mackelvie Street has been stunningly refurbished by architects Peddle Thorp - with concrete and raw wood inside, an impressive charred larch frontage, and a spacious vaulted-ceiling tasting room upstairs.

It’s so eye-poppingly modern you’d hardly believe the building is actually a slice of family history: it was bought by their parents 60 years earlier - for £6000 (yes, pounds) - and their father worked there every day till his retirement last year.

True to the spirit of Ponsonby/Grey Lynn, the new local store is something of a showcase.

While Parnell serves as warehouse and administrative base, Grey Lynn is the flagship for fun tastings and corporate events - with 64 seats and a full commercial kitchen, all accessed via a staircase that climbs through a custom-built, temperature-controlled cellar with a thousand rare, premium wines on display. Wow! The Caro’s boys have been recommending delicious wines since before the internet. It’s nice to see that while some things change, others don’t. Welcome back John and Richard!

CARO’S WINES, 14 Mackelvie Street, T: 09 377 9974, wine@caros.co.nz www.caros.co.nz

John and Richard outside the old Ponsonby Road store

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O PENING SP ECIA L S CHAMPAGNE BEAUMET BRUT NV

ESCARPMENT PINOT NOIR 2013

KUMEU RIVER PINOT GRIS 2013

Stunning value! This is a Cuisine ‘Best Buy’ Champagne from the owners of Laurent-Perrier.

Lovers of fine, savoury Pinot will love this terrific stuff from Martinborough Pinot legend, Larry McKenna.

Consistently top-notch, this is delicious and dry Pinot Gris from one of NZ’s top producers.

$39.99!

$39.99!

$21.99!

RRP $44.99

RRP $53.99

RRP $28.99

+ July 2016

- 20TH MONTH NEWS WWW.C A ROS.CO.N Z | 0 9 3 7 7 9 9 7 4 DEADLINE | W I NE @OFCTHE A RO S . CPONSONBY O. NZ

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY THE FOOD SHOW IS PACKED WITH GOODNESS The Food Show packs maximum deliciousness into four days from 28 - 31 July at the ASB Showgrounds.

It’s time to treat yourself to The Food Show - discover the most fabulous foods, delicious drinks, and cool kitchen appliances, all in one place. And while you're there, be sure to enjoy the incredible range of special features on offer.

Cigna Healthy Hub - For visitors who want to eat healthy and feel great (and who doesn’t?), The Cigna Healthy Hub makes it easy by gathering health-giving products in one spot at the show.

VIP Lounge - An exclusive haven away from the crowds where you can relax, enjoy food and beverages plus meet and greet celebrity chefs. VIP Lounge tickets are strictly limited to just 220 per day - so be in quick.

Street Food Alley - Got a bit of a rumble in your tummy? Head to the new Street Food Alley where you’ll be in a food-lovers paradise - satisfy your hunger, rest your tired feet and fill up on some delicious food and beverages.

Whirlpool Cooking Theatre - Some of the best things about The Food Show are the cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs in the Whirlpool Cooking Theatre - and they’re all included in your entry ticket. Get top tips and see culinary stars cooking live, including Megan May of Little Bird Organics, Ray McVinnie, Kyle Street of Depot Eatery, Robert Oliver, Josh Emett and more.

Buy your tickets at www.foodshow.co.nz to avoid queues, take advantage of early bird online prices plus go in the draw to win a five night food lover's escape for two in the Sunshine Coast worth $5000. F PN

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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GARY STEEL: VEG FRIENDLY

Children and animals Ponsonby kids are progressive. Should children be taught about vegetarianism, or is that as bad as force-feeding them religion?

Well, I can see a few enormous differences, right from the get-go. When children are given religious study, generally they’re told to believe in a god that no one can prove even exists, and that their god is the only righteous god, which means that all those people who worship other gods are heathens. And the rules are all in a big old musty - leather-bound - book.

It’s a big ask.

Vegetarianism, on the other hand, is something that any child with loved pet can easily get their head around. In fact, many children decide to become vegetarian without adult encouragement or intervention, because unlike adults, children don’t have decades of conditioning, and unlike adults, they’re free to put two and two together and get the correct answer: that animals are like us, that they suffer and die to become a meal for us; a meal that we don’t even need, because a vegetarian diet can be both tasty and healthy.

Happily, the areas serviced by Ponsonby News are the most progressive when it comes to vegetarian education programmes for children, as well as for children getting seriously into the idea that one day not too far off, society will transition to vegetarianism, with a little activism and some canny cooking.

Active 4 Animals is a youth group administered by the Vegetarian Society that meets monthly to cook, eat, talk about animal issues, and make like-minded friends. Created for eight to 13-year-olds, it’s a friendly forum for vegetarians (and wannabes) who often find themselves the odd-one-out at school or social functions. Outings include visits to food courts, organic gardens, animal sanctuaries and films.

Speaking of which, the Active 4 Animals group is currently running a film competition, with three different categories. The Primary School Category (years 0-6) can make films on any aspect of vegetarianism, while the two Intermediate School Categories (years 7-8) can either go for Ethical Aspects Of Using Animals For Food, or Nutrition And Health. Finally,

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three Secondary School Categories (years 9-13) can either choose Animal Advocacy, Nutrition And Health, or Protecting The Environment. The film competition is open to all students attending school in New Zealand, the films can be two to five minutes long, and there are prizes for each category, with the People’s Choice winner earning $1000 for their school. All films must be submitted by 15 August.

Then there are the children who take an active role in animal welfare campaigns, like the New Zealand version of the Australian-originated Kids Against Cages campaign. In Auckland, one of the winners of last year’s short film competition, 12-year-old Maja Skilling, has launched her own petition to try and get Countdown supermarket to agree to stop selling caged-hens eggs. Its Australian parent company, Woolworths, has moved to freerange only, but so far, Countdown is being bullish about its intention to meet so-called customer demand, despite Maja accruing more than 15,000 signatures. On the plus side, her campaign got her media coverage to die for, which continues to raise consciousness about the sad plight of battery hens.

Go vegetarian kids from Ponsonby, Grey Lynn and surrounds! Perhaps children from PN around New Zealand will now follow in your footsteps. (GARY STEEL) F Gary Steel is an Auckland-based journalist who runs online vegetarian resource www.doctorfeelgood.co.nz He can be contacted via beautmusic@gmail.com

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY SQUAWKING MAGPIE WINES NOW WINGING THEIR WAY INTO PONSONBY First to grow grapes in the now world-acclaimed Gimblett Gravels and making great wine since 1999, Squawking Magpie is Hawke's Bay’s and possibly New Zealand’s most awarded boutique winery.

Specialising in high-quality red wines and stunning chardonnays. Icons are Stoned Crow Syrah and The Nest Merlot.

Flying high in the Gimblett Gravels, the emphasis has been on creating outstanding wines focusing on viticultural excellence. Gavin Yortt, a part-time Ponsonby local, and his team hold a firm belief that great wines come from great grapes.

And the proof is there to be tasted in the wines. Squawking Magpie wines exhibit the great elegance and finesse of a unique terroir and true, single vineyard estate management and production.

Buy a bottle from your nearest Farro Fresh store, Herne Bay Cellars, Caros Wines or Liquor King on Ponsonby Road. Try a glass at the great new restaurant ParisButter on Jervois Road.

Try our syrah, cabernet, merlot, chardonnay or methode traditionelle. Hatching in July our latest rosé - Pink.

Squawking Magpie Wines now winging their way into Ponsonby! F PN wwww.squawkingmagpie.co.nz

21 YEARS OF FATIMA’S There are a number of Ponsonby businesses that have stood the test of time and become a part of the fabric that makes our neighbourhood great. Fatima’s is one of those businesses.

They first opened the doors at 240 Ponsonby Road on 1 July 1995 and their original vision, Fatima’s is healthy Middle-Eastern takeout, for the discerning urban palate’ is still perfectly relevant 21 years on.

Fatima's is certainly iconic in the Ponsonby Road food scene serving middle eastern takeout with a unique twist. Fatima's is all about flavour and fresh produce, zingy lemon, fresh herbs and the warm aromatic spices from the east.

All their food is freshly made to order and includes such specialties as Spiced Lamb, harissa chicken and rosemary, sumac and lemon crumbed Gurnard each wrapped in a toasted pita with handmade sauces and salads. And those oh so famous potato koftas with sweet chilli aioli.

“Our food is delicious and satisfying, we take authentic recipes and reinterpret them with our flavour combinations" says owner Kirsty Senior. “We offer an inclusive menu which supports various eating preferences and dietary requirements. The falafel, vegetarian croquettes and tofu recipes are gluten-free and vegan friendly. The salads are hand crafted, topped with freshly cooked marinated chicken, spiced lamb or a vegetarian option and sauces."

through a body of young staff members who are new to the working world. Their language and humour keeps us fresh!” says Kirsty.

The menu has grown to reflect the trends and changes in eating. They started with just 14 items on the menu and now offer over 30 delicious options and in development are Fatima’s retail sauces.

There is a sense of comfort at Fatima’s, whether you’re calling by solo or meeting a friend.

Open 11.30am to 10pm. Seven days.

“Over the 21 years there have been local friends and customers that have married, grown families and now their teenagers are working with us. We nurture and bring

FATIMA’S, 240 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 9303, 0800 fatimas

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Working with Andrew Meiring Architects, the store has undergone an interior revamp using updated materials, upholding the core feel of Fatima's informality and warmth.

This has given a modern aesthetic maintaining a relaxed environment.

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY SURREY HOTEL WRITER'S RESIDENCY WINNER ANNOUNCED Crime reporter Kelly Dennett is the winner of the inaugural Surrey Hotel Steve Braunias Memorial Writer's Residency in Association with The Spinoff Award.

Dennett is a journalist at the Sunday Star-Times, and will use the residency to work on her book about the disappearance and murder of Jane Furlong.

good as anywhere in the world, we thought. We also thought we'd get a different type of applicant than normally goes for the more serious literary residencies.

The idea for the award came from author and journalist Steve Braunias, who stayed at the Surrey last year and wrote part of his best-selling book, The Scene of the Crime.

“We were thrilled with the response, and I think the winner's work has an opportunity to be a landmark investigation into a deeply troubling case. To think of it happening at The Surrey, with us facilitating, fills my heart with joy.” F PN

Denise King, general manager at The Surrey Hotel, will welcome the winning applicant, and then leave them to get on with their writing.

THE SURREY HOTEL www.thesurreyhotel.co.nz THE SPINOFF www.thespinoff.co.nz

The winner will take up their room on a Sunday, and have a free roast dinner on arrival. Breakfast is also gratis during their stay, and there are two free dinners, and complementary wifi. Before they check out the following Sunday, they can sit down and have a farewell free roast.

photography: Chris McKeen, Fairfax Media

“We applaud the Surrey and were happy to award $500 to further assist the successful applicant,” said Spinoff publisher Duncan Greive. The Spinoff will also provide funding for a single value menu Domino’s pizza every night except on Sundays when there is a roast.

Two runners-up have also won residencies at the Surrey Hotel - in second place, Antony Millen of Taumaranui, who writes novels for young adults, with third place going to Wellington poet Ashleigh Young.

The Spinoff’s Grieve told Ponsonby News, “I always got a kick out of the idea of extraordinary writer Braunias doing his work at The Surrey. Writers' work is so often romanticised, but you can do it anywhere you have peace and quiet - The Surrey is as

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Kelly Bennett

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TINA PLUNKETT: PONSONBY CENTRAL

Mid-winter feasting with Ponsonby Central We love this time of year, hot water bottles and snuggly blankets, layers of woollens and cold noses. Matariki marks the middle of our winter festivals and the feasting that comes with this. What better way to celebrate than gathering friends and family for a mid-winter dinner.

Left: Table settings, linens from Wallace Cotton, dish settings and salad from Bird on a Wire, Meringues by Foxtrot Parlour, Breads and relish by Little Bread & Butter, fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables from Ceres Fresh Market, Cheeses from The Dairy, Flowers by LOVE, & Mr Lewis, Olives from $5 Deli and Chãteau Saint Roch red from Wine Direct. Right: organic Quality Mark eye fillet beef from Neat Meat. All available in Ponsonby Central.

Ingredients 1.25kg-piece Quality Mark beef, ½ small bunch fresh rosemary, 60ml (¼ cup) light olive oil, 2 large garlic cloves, crushed, salt & freshly ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons light olive oil, extra.

Method Sear beef in heated oil turning occasionally for 6 minutes or until brown all over. Roast in the oven, basting regularly with pan juices, for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare or until cooked to your liking.

Prepare Preheat oven to 200°C. Tie the beef at regular intervals with kitchen string. Rub 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary, oil and garlic mixture over the beef. Thread the rosemary sprigs in. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove beef and transfer to a plate. Cover and rest for 10-15 minutes. Place on serving platter and serve with lashings of horseradish and mustard, fresh bread, roast seasonal vegetables and salads. Feast. Full recipe available from NZ Beef and Lamb at www.recipes.co.nz

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EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY EXPERIENCE ANOTHER CULTURE BY OPENING YOUR HOME TO AN INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE STUDENT Student Exchange Australia New Zealand will welcome more than 20 overseas students to New Zealand in July 2016 and are looking to connect these students to volunteer host families, where they become a part of the family and more often than not, a lifelong friend.

Experiencing the New Zealand way of life and culture, attending the local high school and becoming a member of their community provides an enriched experience for both the student and the host family.

Student Exchange Australia New Zealand is currently seeking urgent expressions of interest from families in New Zealand who are willing to host these exchange students.

Student Exchange Australia New Zealand is a not-for-profit organisation registered with the New Zealand Ministry of Education. For further information please visit our website www.studentexchange.org.nz/host-a-student or call our New Zealand office on 0800 440 079 to speak with one of our staff in Auckland, Hamilton, Napier, Christchurch and Wellington. F PN

Host mum Trudie, from Auckland, commented, "Hosting opens your mind to all sorts of thinking and all sorts of possibilities. I cannot recommend it highly enough. If you have the opportunity to host, just do it.” To view a series of videos of the Cain family http://studentexchange.org.nz/host-a-student/testimonials/ Christine, from Northland region, commented, “One of the best things about having the boys stay with us has been experiencing New Zealand from their perspective.

They have helped us to see New Zealand, our culture, food, lifestyle, and community from a completely different perspective. There are so many things that we take for granted or think of as being normal, but seeing things through their eyes has been a very rewarding and enlightening experience.” Images on Nick and Dietmar’s visit can be found at http://studentexchange.org.nz/news-updates/hosting-photos A hosting experience is an opportunity for both the exchange student and host family to learn firsthand about the world around them. It is a unique experience to discover another culture, share your family values, and make lifelong memories and friendships. Students become another member of the family and are supported by local co-ordinators.

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY THE GOVERNOR: LIVE LOCAL AND LOVE LOCAL Taking its name from the title of an interesting character called William Jervois, Herne Bay cafe, and bistro after hours, The Governor serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a true focus on locality.

Just a few months after opening in the space formerly occupied

by Zus & Zo, The Governor’s manager Cédric Marangon saw a distinct gap in the local food offering for a casual eatery offering more than just your standard daytime café fare. So instead of shutting their doors at 4pm, The Governor began staying open til 10pm, with an ever-evolving menu offering its local clientele a brand new shared plates and dinner option starring fresh, seasonal ingredients.

From Tuesday until Saturday The Governor serves up not just the modern-day spin on classic café food that they have quickly become famous for, but also beautifully crafted winter dishes like braised beef short rib with celeriac puree and Brussels sprouts and roasted half chicken served with baby carrots, garlic dijonnaise and gremolata. The dishes are all the creative work of talented head chef, Lucy Montagu.

“Opening all day and into the evening was always the plan,” says Cédric. “When the designer looked at the space left by Zus & Zo it seemed like a great thing to do and it is just so easy for the cafe to transition from a day venue to a restaurant by night.”

He and his team also saw the aforementioned gap in the local market that they knew they could fill, “as people really seemed to be looking for a new place to go out that was serving fresh, uncomplicated food.”

Locals have also fallen in love with the concept of dropping in for an early dinner with friends and family and being close enough to walk home, as opposed to further up the Ponsonby strip where there is more of an emphasis on late night dining. Cédric says that thus far their popularity has grown purely by word of mouth, with punters who pop in for brunch or an early breakfast meeting coming back with their families for something a little heartier at night. Tuesday nights have been known to be absolutely humming with folks who really can’t be bothered with the hassle of slaving over a stove at home, and feed off the buzzing vibe of the comfortably chic local. “We are getting more and more people through the door all the time,” he says, “and once they have tried dinner here they love it and come back for more. Our back room space means that if the front gets full we can comfortably seat people out the back, and it’s also perfect for larger groups and families.”

Speaking of the light, spacious Governor back room, Cédric explains that it, too, is growing in popularity all the time as a private space. With no hireage fee to pay, it is available to groups looking to launch a product, celebrate a birthday or just watch the rugby with friends. “We don’t charge a fee as we just want people to use the room and enjoy it,” says Cédric, “and as long as they order some food and some drinks we are

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happy with that. We look at it as providing a service for our regulars, and we love having them spending their time at The Governor.”

Equipped with seating for up to 20 guests, and a big screen TV, it is also the perfect spot for local businesses just wanting to get out of the office - and having great coffee on site is an added bonus. “In terms of food we can supply small bites, a charcuterie plate or a set menu depending on what the group needs,” says the manager, emphasising that nothing is ever too much trouble for the talented team in the kitchen and front of house.

But back to Montagu’s food, which is an ever evolving, beautiful feast of seasonal flavours. Cédric says that he and the kitchen team love hearing feedback from customers about what their favourites are, and dishes that they would like to see transition from shared plate to main and vice versa. “You can also order a dish like chicken or ribs to share or as an entrée,” explains Cédric, and they are always creating more interesting vegetarian and vegan dining options in response to customer demand. “Our menu is so flexible that it can pretty much be designed for exactly what you want,” says the seasoned manager, “if you want to treat us like a wine bar then please do, or as a place for a warming, winter venison pot pie with friends. The menu is just a sample of what we can do, so if you have something specific in mind please ask... and see what we can do.”

PN (HELENE RAVLICH) F The Governor, 228 Jervois Road, T: 09 361 5060, thegovernor.co.nz

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LAURAINE JACOBS: THE SEASONED PALATE

Lauraine Jacobs is inspired by Mekong Baby’s menu This was the rule: “You can come at 6pm or 6.30pm but you would have to be out by 8pm. Otherwise you can book at 8pm or 8.30pm.”

And once seated at a 6.30pm table, “You cannot take away your food so do not order more than you can eat!”

I love people telling me what to do - Yeah, right.

Luckily that didn’t put me off, and when we arrived for our precious 6.30pm table, Mekong Baby’s dining room was totally empty. It filled up quickly, and service was swift, smart and thoroughly pleasant. We were out into the cold and home by 8pm, before anyone could bossily tip us out.

Dominique Parat, the jaunty Frenchman who owns Mekong Baby has always managed to keep at the cutting edge of exactly what people want. I wonder if anyone else remembers that slick little French brasserie that was his first solo gig, a stone’s throw from at the Auckland Town Hall? The name escapes me (it began with Z) and it was a real delight - bold, bright and snazzy with proper bistro cooking. He’s had a string of places around the city including GPK on Ponsonby Road and Takapuna, that gorgeous elegant dining room next to his GPK Ponsonby (the beautiful staircase remains leading to one of Mekong Baby’s three private dining rooms), Banque that was set up for the good folk in Remuera to dine on delicious fare, and now he’s celebrating three years at his clever Mekong Baby. None of his places are over the top; each and every single one has hit the mark on current trends for its time.

Mekong Baby’s menu reflects our current fascination with Asian food. The interior, even three successful years on, is comfortable and oozes that South-East Asian atmosphere.

The restaurant is named for the Mekong River, which flows from China, defines the borders between Burma and Laos, and then Laos and Thailand, before passing through Cambodia and on to the Vietnamese delta. It is a fertile region, and the food of all those different countries is what inspires the Mekong Baby menu.

Then things got a 'little bigger' and I could return every week for the masterful dish with crispy skinned hapuku pieces topped with sweet and sticky chunks of pork and garnished with pear, radish and a giant pile of fresh herbs.

That totally captures the essence of the Mekong. There are lovely fragrant curries and salads, a roast duck with pineapple, potatoes in a Massaman curry and a goat curry redolent of lime and coconut aromas - a dish that most regular customers swear by. Chicken, beef, pork, lamb and vegetables all have their place on the menu and here’s the thing - go in a group so you can really experience this huge array of flavours, textures and tastes.

So there are various dishes paying homage to the food of those countries, with an overriding theme that’s light, fresh and spicy. As it should be. The menu is vast and even though I often think that too often signals over -ambition in the kitchen, here it all works. Start with a tasty little betel leaf topped with crab, hot wings with gochujang (hey, now that’s Korean), Khmer beef skewers, spicy lime corn fritters, kingfish sashimi or any other tasty treats from the ‘small beginnnings’ section.

Not all are authentic Mekong cookery but everything is piled with the fresh herbs that mark the cuisine of the region and the flavours are delectable. My favourites?

The Vietnamese pork rolls which are extremely chunky but refreshingly light and pleasing. And the kingfish sashimi which had a hauntingly interesting flavour profile from the green nam jim and a lovely coconut sauce.

Do leave a little room for dessert. If there’s a better Asian dessert in the city than Mekong Baby’s coconut sago with vanilla icecream and a topping of crunchy crisp of puffed black rice I will eat my hat. It is lightness itself and a thing of wonder.

The cocktails are intriguing and the wines by the glass well suited to the food. Loved my vouvray which may be the perfect match for all the spice and punchy flavour that underpins the Mekong Baby fare. With so much variety and so many light dishes I could happily eat here regularly, which is obviously what many diners do. Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday to Sunday 12 noon until late.

(LAURAINE JACOBS) F PN www.laurainejacobs.co.nz

Mekong Baby, 262 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 1113, www.mekongbaby.com

Kingfish with coconut and green nam jim; hapuku and pork; sago dessert

A NEW WORLD OF COFFEE @ THE ROCKET STORE The Rocket Store on Ponsonby Road is a partnership between Rocket Espresso Milano and Atomic Coffee Roasters and shares a unique space with Service Denim.

The store is a celebration of these two iconic identities - Rocket Espresso Milano, who produce some of the world’s finest espresso machines, and Atomic Coffee Roasters, who are about to celebrate their 25th birthday.

The Rocket Store, designed by renowned architect Paul Izzard, has a largely black, steel and copper interior, to accentuate the chrome styling of Rocket’s espresso machines.

Beautiful repurposed wooden tables are paired with sleek black seating to create an urban oasis away from the bustle of Ponsonby Road.

Sitting at the end of Franklin Road, it’s a spot to enjoy delicious coffee, grab a bite to eat, browse the range of Rocket espresso machines and check out the selection of denim at the neighbouring Service Denim store.

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To celebrate the latest edition to Ponsonby Road, The Rocket Store is offering a sixmonth Atomic coffee subscription with every Rocket espresso machine sold this winter.

Stop in to see Fran, Cliff and the team at The Rocket Store, they’re happy to help you explore a new world of coffee.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 7am - 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am - 4pm F PN THE ROCKET STORE, 208 Ponsonby Road, T: 0800 208 PONSONBY, www.atomiccoffee.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

APPARTAMENTO The new compact espresso machine by Rocket Espresso, designed for environments where space is at a premium.

*Appartamento is available with either white or copper side panel inserts.

THE ROCKET STORE | 208 PONSONBY ROAD FIND OUT MORE | ATOMICCOFFEE.CO.NZ | 0800ATOMIC

ROSS THORBY: SEA FEVER My continuing world cruise seems to be a journey through man’s technological achievements.

A mere few weeks ago I was at Cape Canaveral staring at our efforts to conquer infinity with the space shuttle, Atlantis. Retired, she now inhabits a vast hangar, her last journey completed, her computers superfluous and silent, her useful life over.

Today, I’m standing in front of another of man’s technological achievements. The Queen Mary. A ship built in the 1930s to break all speed records across the Atlantic. She was built to the highest standards of the day to race between good Ole Blighty and the New World, doing so successfully until 1967.

This great leviathan saved many Jews from Nazi Germany, carried 17,000 troops at a time during the Second World War, accommodated 2,112,000 passengers during peacetime and sailed a total of 3,792,227 miles; but after surviving a depression and a war, the old Cunarder finally fell prey to the jet engine and man’s need to travel even faster and more conveniently. Ironically, the very reason that she had been built in the first place.

She now rests by the city of Long Beach, her great boilers removed, her engines exhausted and silent, her big brass tele-porter on the bridge now reading a permanent order: “All Engines Stop.”

She was the 1930s equivalent of the Atlantis and she shares a similar fate. Both rest now in peaceful redundancy while technology marches still further and still faster along.

Here, a long way from her old stomping ground of the Atlantic, the QM stands proudly, if not slightly frayed around the edges, a floating museum and hotel. Her personality still managing to shine through via the grand promenade decks and remaining intact spaces.

Hotel guests, tourists, ghost hunters and ship buffs are daily visitors to the liner like us, reliving her past, whilst modern-day cruise ships float in and out of the docks behind her.

A small group of friends greeted me at the bottom of the gangplank as we disembarked the Queen Victoria. Old cruising buddies who had travelled to Los Angeles especially, so that we could all spend the day on board the QM. Amongst them Elaine, who had emigrated on the Queen Mary in 1956.

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Inspecting rooms long forgotten, and opening any door that wasn’t locked, we peered into the old staterooms that she had once occupied, listening to tales of balls and dinners once held in the grand first class sanctums. The echo of big bands mixing with laughter and the clink of champagne glasses reverberated through the distant recesses of the hallowed spaces.

I had particularly wanted to see the First Class dining room. A huge, titanic space, it occupies three floors and is anchored by huge wooden columns soaring like a vast kauri forest around a beautiful dance floor. On first seeing the proportions and handiwork in the panelling of this room, you can’t help but take a sudden involuntary gasp of wonder.

At one end, is a huge marquetry panel that shows the Queen Mary and her sister ship, the Queen Elizabeth, traversing their transatlantic paths on mechanical tracks, only to pass each other midstream, then continue on with their bi-weekly voyage.

Stationed on the forecastle of the ship are big 40mm gun emplacements. These were the only protection that the ship carried when she had been converted to a troop carrier during the war. Along with the guns and the speed that she was able to achieve, she frustrated the German subs that were charged with finding and sinking her during the war.

At the business end of the liner, the boilers may have been removed; but the subsidiary engines are still intact. Of the huge shafts that ran the four propellers that powered the ship through the Atlantic swell, only one has survived the knackers yard and you can exit through the hull and view the propeller still slowly rotating in the water now sadly only for the benefit of the tourists.

I still have another 30,000-odd miles to travel this trip, a small drop in the bucket for what this old Queen has done; but as I stand here on the 80th anniversary of her maiden voyage and admire the turning screw below me, I can’t help appreciate the continuing expansion of technology that supports these, the largest moving objects made by man and our continuing efforts to strive for larger, better and faster.

Luckily for us, we as the cruising public, continue to reap the rewards of their PN developments. (ROSS THORBY) F

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

LUXURY IN THE WILD

by Ange Pirie, Director, World Journeys

It’s the crack of dawn in the middle of the African wilderness and there’s a tap on my door. Strong coffee and a quick chat with the rangers later, and we’re off into the bush to spot the wildlife at their most active.

The expert guides and trackers have a sixth sense of where to find a pride of lions, the newest baby elephant, or the most impressive herd of buffalo to leave us totally awestruck.

And so begins another day on safari in South Africa’s Phinda Private Game Reserve.

The landscapes of Phinda vary from extraordinary forest growing out of the sand, to rocky bush covered hills, all home to not only the ‘Big Five’ game (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) but also the many rarer and less easily spotted species, such as the elusive cheetah and the scarce black rhino.

Also rare, in the best possible way, are the safari lodges at Phinda! With only a handful of luxury lodges (owned and operated by andBeyond) within the 56,800 acre reserve, you are never bumping into other vehicles on game drives. Each lodge has its own unique personality, and many suites boast their own private decks and plunge pools. All come with the best service on earth.

A day in the life of a Phinda safari is designed around thrilling you with wildlife in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals are out and about, but seems equally focussed on indulging you in delicious cuisine at every opportunity! Thrilled by the morning’s game drive, it’s back to the lodge for a sumptuous breakfast, then you might just have time to fit in a short walk accompanied by your ranger before a stunning lunch of Pan-African cuisine. Time then for a refreshing dip in the pool, an afternoon siesta or simply watch the wildlife from your private veranda before afternoon tea (freshly baked muffins anyone?). The late afternoon game drive lasts until after dark, when spotlights are used for a glimpse into the nocturnal bush life. Listening to lions roar and glimpsing bright eyes shining through the dark is quite an experience. You will stop to enjoy sundowners and snacks in a scenic spot as you witness yet another spectacular African sunset.

Back to the lodge, you might find a mouth-watering dinner at the lodge boma (outdoor courtyard dining), or in a surprising bush location, where the guests regale each other around the campfire with their thrilling wildlife encounters.

Phinda had been at the top of my wish for so long my expectations were sky high, but I’m happy to report it was all that and more! From thrilling up-close wildlife encounters, to the warm hospitality of the lodge hosts, to the delicious cuisine I became far too accustomed to, it was simply exceptional. I urge you to visit South Africa for its stunning landscapes, its Winelands, Garden Route, Cape Town and more. Whatever your plans, put PN Phinda on your wish list and prepare to diet on your return home! F

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TRAVEL BREAKS: THE NEW THERAPY!

CAPTURE LIFE ON THE MOVE WITH THE NEW LUMIX GX85 LUMIX’s powerful new GX85 Mirrorless Camera is setting a new benchmark for high-imaging performance and ease-of-use.

With a sleek and stylish design, the GX85 features exciting technologies including new 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, an advanced sensor, 4K Photo and Video and a high resolution Live View Finder. There is nothing comparable in its class.

Impressive image stability The next-generation GX85 is Panasonic’s first G Series camera to incorporate 5-axis in-body stabilisation. From capturing images at a slow shutter speed or with a telephoto lens, to handheld video shooting, the GX85 always ensures a superior stable imaging performance.

Sophisticated imaging advances Delivering sharper images than ever before, the GX85’s re-engineered 16 megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor sees the Low Pass Filter removed for even more highly detailed images. Photographers will also love the newly added Focus Bracketing which adjusts the focus point while maintaining depth of field.

Extensive 4K feature suite With 4K Video, you’ll enjoy capturing highly detailed film, and the easy-to-use 4K Live Cropping feature ensures stable panning and zooming whilst recording. 4K Photo always captures the precise moment you’re looking for - simply shoot a 4K video, select your favourite shot, and then save it as a still photo. Meanwhile, Post Focus lets you choose the focal point of an image after the shot has been taken.

Pin-sharp magnification Perfectly frame your shot and capture every detail with the high-resolution 2764K-dot Live View Finder. The Eye Sensor can be activated simply by looking into the viewfinder and the 3-inch 1040K-dot rear monitor has a versatile tilting design which is useful when shooting photos at low angles. F PN PHOTO WAREHOUSE, 175 Great North Road, Ponsonby, T: 09 303 2148, www.photowarehouse.co.nz

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

4K PHOTO SHOT ON LUMIX GX85

THE ONE CAPTURING LIFE ON THE MOVE

THE NEW LUMIX GX85.

When searching the streets for inspiration, Jonas Borg needs a camera that reacts as quickly as he does. 5-axis Dual Image Stabilizer helps him take crisper, clearer images even in low light or for telephoto shooting, while Post Focus gives him the freedom to choose the focus point after he has taken the shot. Part of the LUMIX 4K PHOTO range, it also lets him film at 30fps and extract the perfect shot as a high resolution still image.

See how Jonas Borg captured life on the move in Berlin at Panasonic.com #4KPHOTO #LUMIXGX85 AVAILABLE FROM PHOTO WAREHOUSE

5 GREAT RETAIL LOCATIONS:

175 Great North Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland 154 Queen St, Central City, Auckland SEE OUR FULL RANGE INSTORE 140 Victoria St, Wellington 105 Fitzgerald Avenue, Christchurch 190 George St, Dunedin www.photowarehouse.co.nz DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

NZ’S LEADING LUMIX SERIES RESELLERS

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PONSONBY NEWS READERS ARE EVERYWHERE

Emma and Olivia Hughes (dancers) and Rachel Hughes (Mum - chaperone) were in Los Angeles as part of a dance tour in the April school holidays. Of course, these Ponsonby locals had to take a copy of the Ponsonby News along for the trip! Pictured at Universal Studios, Los Angeles.

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

A WINTER ESCAPE TO HERITAGE BOUTIQUE WATERFRONT SUITES, BAY OF ISLANDS With the days shorter and damper, we all need a short sojourn out of town to break up the winter months. We decided to head for Northland and stay at The Waterfront Suites, part of the Heritage Boutique Collection, set in the Bay of Islands.

In just over three hours we were in Paihia and already at a much more relaxed pace.

The Waterfront Suites property is right in the heart of Paihia. Our spacious suite was two-bedroom and overlooked the beautiful vista of the bay.

The suite was fully self-contained with a well-equipped kitchen so you could pack gourmet goodies and simply ensconce yourself for the next 48 hours, if you chose to. But I love to swim and had spotted the lap pool so took myself off for a dip.

Eventually we roused ourselves to explore our surroundings further. The Paihia wharf beckoned and we caught a ferry across to Russell. We loved the historic cottages and the charming Christ Church, dating back to 1835.

Exploring the shops we were delighted to discover a chocolatier, Newport chocolates, who, coincidentally, supply the welcome chocolates at the Waterfront Suites. We bought up arm loads.

Back on the road home, we tried to think what specifically had made us feel so relaxed.

We decided it was the complete change of air and simply watching the world go by from our balcony without obligations and deadlines for once.

Back over at Paihia we dropped in next door to Greens for a very good Thai/Indian dinner with plenty of vegetarian options. You could just as easily order takeout and head back to the suite. We were sorely tempted.

Heritage Boutique Waterfront Suites offers one, two-bedroom and three-bedroom suites.

Pick a two-bedroom premium suite if you can or splurge on the penthouse for lovely views and lofty balconies to catch the sea breeze.

Over the course of the weekend, I could say we raced around to all the wonderful places friends suggested to us to see - farmer’s markets and wineries, you name it. But what we did in the end was totally unwind in the suite instead. I actually finished a book and managed to binge watch a few episodes of my new favourite TV series.

All suites feature a contemporary design with a spacious lounge and a convenient kitchen and laundry. The heated lap pool and outdoor barbecue area provide an aesthetic leisure area just steps from your room, whilst across the road is the Paihia waterfront as the name would suggest. (MARTIN LEACH) F PN www.heritagehotels.co.nz/hotels/the-waterfront-suites-bay-of-islands

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Jacket from RODD & GUNN, top and pants from BARKERS, shoes from MERCHANT1948/OVERLAND, NIXON watch from AMAZON The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

WWW.SHORE-CITY.CO.NZ

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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FASHION + STYLE: JULIE ROULSTON

On the mountain We’ve always envied those who rub their mittened hands with glee when cold weather arrives and make for the mountain. Happily, most of this gear on these pages will look as great on the street as it will on the slopes or après-ski.

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WHERE TO BUY IN GREATER PONSONBY 1. Karen Walker sunglasses $409 www.karenwalker.com 2. Huffer pom-pom beanie $49.90 www.huffer.co.nz 3. Seed snood $59.90 www.seedheritage.com 4. Roxy collar $29.99 www.roxy-newzealand.co.nz 5. Oakley goggles $249.90 www.boardertown.co.nz 6. Burton ski jacket $369.90 www.boardertown.co.nz 7. Roxy beanie $39.99 www.roxy-newzealand.co.nz 8. Roxy ski pants $249.99 www.roxy-newzealand.co.nz 9. Mooi bag $563.50 www.mooistore.com 10. Kathryn Wilson slipper $269 www.kathrynwilson.com 11. Ripcurl top $69.99 www.ripcurl.co.nz 12. Huffer down jacket $399.90 www.huffer.co.nz 13. Seed poncho $89.90 www.seedheritage.co 14. Marmot ski pant $399.95 www.marmotnz.co.nz 15. Seed pom-pom beanie $39.90 www.seedheritage.com 16. Huffer gloves $69.90 www.huffer.co.nz 17. Oakley headband $35 www.oakley.com 18. Karen Walker sunglasses $349 www.karenwalker.com

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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

VERMONT STREET, PONSONBY 15 JULY 1925

Dear Bertie,

Of course I am writing to pick your brains for ideas! There are so many directions in which one could go, and I am truly in need of advice and ideas. My rivals are keeping very quiet about their plans so I’m not at all sure about the state of the competition. All I know is that my client is very keen to win and his unbounded enthusiasm is starting to make me very nervous.

I’ve started looking at my books and magazines for ideas but most of the costumes are for individuals rather than groups. Rather than dressing them singly, with no relationship to the other, I want to create a suite of costumes for my seven ladies that together somehow suggests Shanlys and the drapery business.

Can you see why I am so desperate for inspiration?

The ladies themselves haven’t really contributed any useful ideas except a desire to promote the firm’s summer fabrics that will be coming into the shop soon. As a means of doing this, a number of them seem transfixed on the idea of costumes that represent the colours of summer! While the carnival offers a wonderful opportunity to promote the sale of Shanlys' newest fabrics, I suspect that the motivation behinds this idea is for the ladies to have themselves a new summer frock that can be worn after the carnival. I don’t think that this can really be seen as fancy dress!

The owner of Shanlys is at least thinking along the same lines as myself (that the costumes should work together as a group), although his ideas are somewhat more extravagant than I was envisaging. He is, for example, very keen on the idea of each girl being dressed as one of the letters spelling Shanlys...'S' for silk, ‘H’ for haberdashery, and so on. I can’t help thinking that while the idea has some merit, the costumes would be both cumbersome and unbecoming. Who wants to dance the evening away imprisoned within a huge letter ‘S’? Even if it is beautifully made in the loveliest silk! And which girl is going to want to be ‘Y’, which would be made from yardsticks[iii],the only drapery related item that I can think of beginning with ‘Y’.

I much prefer my idea of representing the quality and variety of Shanlys’ wares with costumes inspired by the far flung origins of their fabrics. Much more appropriate and with the added potential of resulting in rather gorgeous

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garments don’t you agree? A flamenco-inspired ensemble in Spanish lace, an exotic sari in fine Indian cotton and a kimono gown in Japanese silk, for example. I think this idea would not only showcase a range of Shanlys' loveliest fabrics, but also meet the brief of a costume competition.

The other idea I have is to turn the girls into flowers - ‘Shanlys’ Summer Bouquet’ - using their prettiest fabrics and trims. I could even use the trope of each flower name spelling out the word ‘Shanlys’ when the girls are lined up!

Sunflower, Heliotrope, Anemone, Nasturtium, Lily, Yellow crocus and Sweet pea. I’m quite pleased with this idea and think that the girls would be happy as well. They’ll look dainty and summery and at least will be able to dance in their costumes. My proprietor might think the idea a tad too subtle and will probably demand that the girls wear sashes over their costumes, emblazoned in sequins with the Shanly name!

I’m very excited to have been permitted full access to Shanlys’ showroom and stock rooms and the invitation to use any materials that I might need to complete the costumes. Of course I shall be making something for myself although I am not eligible to compete. One has to look the part at these things.

I’m thinking something Oriental in inspiration - perhaps a cocoon coat - made from a delicious black Japanese crepe which will look gorgeous lined in plain deep blue silk and secured with a large matching Bakelite button.

If I have time, I’ll also cover an old parasol with the same blue silk and hang tassels from each point.

George might paint a dragon on the silk for me if I ask him nicely. I so adore the Oriental style as you well know... Actually there’s nothing stopping me at all from turning Shanlys’ girls into exotic maidens.

Perhaps Shanlys could be an ‘Oriental Emporium’ for a day and the girls part of its harem! I could have such fun dressing them up in silks and brocades. I know that it’s not an original idea but I do think en masse the girls could be contenders for the prize.

Anyway, I’m sorry to have to pick your brains so relentlessly regarding my dilemma. I’m so enamored of your skills in this area that any advice on my ideas or thoughts of an alternative course would be most welcome. In spite of being tremendously excited about this, I’m also a trifle anxious as I really should be spending time on planning my summer collections. Hopefully all this creative thinking will only help me in my everyday work. And just think if we win. Not that I want to be inundated with orders for fancy dress!

Well my dear, I await your thoughts with eager anticipation and look forward to hearing from you soon.

With much love,

Maudie xx [i] The Leys Institute, 20 St. Mary’s Bay Road, founded 1905 [ii] 285 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby (T. Chas. Palmer, Proprietor) [iii] Used for measuring fabric

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illustration: Michael McClintock

As Dunedin’s unrivalled and much envied ‘Queen of the Fancy Dress competition’, you will be interested to know that here in Ponsonby we are going to be having our own fancy dress carnival in October! I have been asked by the proprietor of Shanlys - one of our largest drapery shops - to design costumes for his seven staff! The ball is a fund raising event for the Leys Institute[i] and all the draperies are to go up against each other for the grand prize. The competition is going to be fierce! The prize is truly inspired and well worth winning (in my opinion). It’s an iced cake, made and donated by the Hygienic Home Made Cake and Pastry Depot[ii], which will be delivered to the lucky winning drapery every Friday, just in time for morning tea, for one year! I can hear you thinking that they could probably do with the publicity, however, my dear, the Depot are purveyors of very fine cakes indeed. If Shanlys wins, you can guess where I’ll be at 10am every Friday morning.

HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL AGENCIES

Local designer: Turet Knuefermann When I mention the TK Store and the label Turet Knuefermann to most women, the first thing that comes to mind is sexy. Elegant yet sensual styles that can work for any woman and quality that lasts. And lasts.

Designer Turet crafts clothes that make a woman feel sexy and powerful for sure, but they are also completely effortless to wear - and the two don’t usually go too easily together. They are always the first pieces I go to in my wardrobe when I am heading overseas due to their insane portability and power to repel creases no matter how long the Designer Turet Knuefermann flight time, and most of her styles can be dressed down for day and then way up at night depending on the way you want your getaway to roll out. Dresses worn multiple ways are another concept that has been on the Knuefermann menu for a while too - some of her styles even come with instructions and yep, the possibilities are endless.

At the end of last year, the designer celebrated 10 years in the business of running her own, highly successful standalone stores, including her iconic Brown Street store under the TK Store banner that opened way back in 2005. Her newest boutique, called just Knuefermann, extends her brand even further. You’ll find it in the historic Kauri Timber building on Fanshawe Street, and it is a true joy to behold. Architecture firm Fearon Hay created a space there that reflects a luxury consumer experience along with European style and the clean lines that the brand is known for, and it’s a completely unique shopping destination. It also stocks a few brands and pieces that can’t be found in Ponsonby and vice versa, necessitating a regular visit to both, in my humble opinion!

When talking about her Brown Street store she tells me the last 10 years have been “so rewarding... it has been incredible to experience being part of the growing Ponsonby environment.” She says she chose the location - most definitely off the beaten track all those years ago - as she wanted to create “an oasis, to provide a space that encapsulates the philosophy of TK as well as a relaxed destination for our clientele. It’s a haven for people to take time out from the busy ‘noise’ of everyday life and to have an engaging experience that feels special.”

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

When I ask her who the woman she has in mind is when she is designing a new collection, she says, “I’m inspired by my amazing friends and colleagues - I work with some very cool ladies. They tend to be confident women with a strong sense of self that are busy and like to look effortlessly chic. Women who pay attention to the design and longevity of a garment and who are conscious of buying a product in the knowledge that it is ethically produced and sourced.” She adds that the TK customer has actually changed little over the past 10 years, but that her loyal customer base has “grown to now include the friends and also the daughters of my original customers, who are off to balls and embarking on new careers.”

She says that a combination of elements keeps her customers (like me) coming back for more, such as clean lines, amazing value for money and the fact that TK style is “all about the client wearing the clothes, not the clothes wearing her. It’s the simplicity of the designs that makes the impact, and it’s hard to beat the quality of the fabrics chosen for the garments.”

She describes the latest collection to drop in-store as being like resort wear, “but for everyday!” and while winter brings pieces like her Merino Basque Jumpers to snuggle into, “the luxuriousness of linen and wide-leg palazzo pants has got me excited about a new feminine allure. It’s comfortable but not careless, I love that linen is raw yet refined, delicate yet durable. Nothing says effortless luxury like linen if you’re planning a getaway, that trip to Rio... or simply want a hot look for that Italian -themed long lunch.” Throw on one of the label’s perfectly cut coats and you’re good to go - it really is that easy.

The Newton resident tells me she is also making a welcome return to New Zealand Fashion Week this year after a few years off, and is excited to be expecting her first child.

Having known her for many years I can attest to the fact that Turet is most definitely never one to rest on her laurels, and she tells me that even with all of that going on she is also looking forward to “locking myself in the pattern room to conjure up loads PN of new creations!” I, for one, can’t wait to see what comes next. (HELENE RAVLICH) F TK STORE, 50 Brown Street, T: 09 361 2020, www.tk.net.nz

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FASHION + STYLE DUTY-FREE JEWELLERY EXPLAINED Escaping the weather and travelling overseas this winter?

You don’t have to wait till you get to the airport to take advantage of Tax Free Shopping when buying a piece of jewellery, engagement ring or wedding band.

Firstly, you need to make sure the store you are purchasing from offers a duty free service.

Secondly, the item you are buying needs to be intended for your own personal use (or as a gift, nudge, nudge, wink, wink) and lastly you need to be leaving New Zealand on a flight, as you can’t pick up your item or items on your way back into the country.

‘Duty free’ means you don’t pay the GST on the purchase price. This can be a little confusing for people, as one may assume you take the ‘including GST price’ and multiply it by 15% to work out the savings. However, this equals a greater saving than it actually is.

GST is calculated once a store decides on a price for an item, for example $100. Then they add on the GST component at 15% = $15, making a total of $150 including GST. This GST amount of $15 is then paid to the IRD, by the store, once the sale is completed.

When you purchase duty free, GST is not included in the price. The store is entitled to do this as long as all the conditions are met and there is documentation stamped by the airport, proving the item left the country.

A simple equation for working out the GST component on an ‘including GST’ figure is to multiply by three and then divide by 23. This is the amount you will save.

Ponsonby’s local jewellers,‘Diamonds On Richmond’, offers duty free shopping and they even allow you to purchase on the day of your flight, as they can send the item straight out to the airport.

Alternatively, you can purchase an engagement ring, wedding bands or any piece of jewellery in advance of your flight so that they have plenty of time to custom-make it for you. Custom-made jewellery takes anywhere from two to six weeks, depending on exactly what you are having made. Contact Diamonds On Richmond or pop in to 98 Richmond PN Road to discuss your ideas and requirements. F DIAMONDS ON RICHMOND, 98 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, T: 09 376 9045, www.dor.co.nz

Diamond jewellery and wedding rings by Diamonds On Richmond

FLO CLOTHING - LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD Based in Grey Lynn, Flo Clothing was established in late 2015 with a goal to create connectivity to child poverty and to do something about it.

The slogan, “level the playing field”, reflects their goal in hoping to make all children feel equal by actively working to help those in poverty, allowing kids to flourish both in school and in life.

Over 300,000 children in New Zealand live in hardship, and they are less likely to leave school with university entry qualifications.

Flo are selling a number of shirts, ranging from $45 - $48 depending on the style, with profits from each sale going to help kids in need.

Currently, they’ve partnered with Eat My Lunch, an initiative set up

by Lisa King and award-winning chef Michael Meredith, to provide fresh and healthy lunches in schools for children who cannot afford their own. To date, they’ve provided almost 200 lunches in both the Auckland and Hamilton areas.

Flo was founded by Joseph Harawira, who previously served in the New Zealand Defence Force and now, besides operating the clothing line, works for the NRL, mentoring athletes on the junior elite pathway. (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN FLO CLOTHING, 9/28 Williamson Avenue, T: 021 034 3691, www.flo.kiwi

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FASHION + STYLE WHAT’S IN THE VAULT?

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After 25 years in High Street in the CBD, The Vault has moved to a modern space on Ponsonby Road near Picton Street and beside Ruby.

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Owner Sarah Solaris says she is delighted to be up on the funkiest ridge in town with other like-minded independent retailers.

The new store is focussed on New Zealand-made and New Zealand-designed jewellery with a select range of accessories, quirky ceramics and unique gifts.

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Well known brands like Boh Runga and Nick Von K sit alongside artisan-made jewellery and pounamu. Telling the artists' stories is part of what The Vault is about and the new store has a large LCD display in the window showing some of the jewellers, carvers and artisans at work. There is something gorgeous to be found by all types, ages and wallet sizes!

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THE VAULT, 95B Ponsonby Road, T: 09 377 7665, www.thevaultnz.com Facebook/TheVaultNZ

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1. Gold Nautilus Necklace by Louise Douglas $210; 2. Precious Jewellery Box by Ian Blackwell $269; 3. Kirstin Ash Bespoke Necklaces - from $85; 4. Fez Earrings by Kerry Rocks $118; 5. Solid Gold Boh Runga Rings $251; 6. Circle of Life Pounamu Disc by Ernesto Orvalle from $102; 7. Leaf Earrings by Whalebird $67; 8. Candlestick by Philippi from $162; 9. Fantail Earrings

by Whalebird $74; 10. Manuka Flower Necklace by Martyn Milligan $175

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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FASHION + STYLE RETAIL SUPERSTAR Julie Miller - Sills + Co Herne Bay

How did you come to be a retail salesperson?

My mother and I had a beautiful homeware store ‘Collections’ in Parnell, nearly 30 years ago.

What brought you to Sills + Co? Caroline Sills phoned me out of the blue to tell me about her flagship store opening in Herne Bay. What do you love about your store?

What don’t I love? I work with fabulous girls who have become amazing friends. Sills + Co is a beautiful store in a fabulous area and our customers are amazing!

What makes a standout retail salesperson?

I think honesty and being friendly and approachable are very important.

Tell us about a memorable sale you've made this year...

Our beautiful cashmere throws had just arrived in store. A lovely woman walked in our store, bought one - and on arriving home decided she wanted one in each colour!

If you could wave your wand and have anyone in the world walk into your store right now, who would it be?

Kate Middleton. Just love her style.

If you could wave your wand and have anyone in greater Ponsonby walk into your store right now, who would it be?

Wendy Gosling. She is such a fabulous customer and always has a beautiful smile and kind words to say.

Where do you enjoy shopping?

Sills + Co of course. Amazing clothing, beautiful homewares - and Kathryn Wilson for shoes!

ISAAC + LULU SHOWCASES ITS FOURTH COLLECTION THIS SEASON The label is ‘next generation’, literally. That's because the innovators behind ISAAC + LULU are the real-life children of label partners Toni Sills and Ange Todd, respectively.

There is fashion in the blood for them both, with designer Ange coming from a family of tailors and costume designers, while Toni is the daughter of fashion designer Caroline Sills.

It is a relationship which sees the headquaters for ISAAC + LULU in the same whitewashed seaside building in Devonport as the other Sills labels - and of course, alongside Kathryn Wilson, the respected New Zealand shoe designer.

"ISAAC + LULU was created by us and for us, for our friends and for people like us,” says Ange. “We love, value, and are serious about being considered, accessible, and the unexpected. It works with our lifestyles and it makes us feel individual. We call it... elegant indifference."

ISAAC+ LULU Summer 2016 is a dreamy cocktail of Coachella chic with a dash of the 90s - hold the grunge!

Light and feminine, it is polished, grown-up boho. With its floating silhouettes and floral prints, this is effortless style at its best - and it epitomises everything Ange and Toni love about summer. Think long skirts and transparent, lacy fabrics, and romantic gathers.

Free-spirited and individual, the ISAAC + LULU girl has no rules but is styling it her way, no matter what the destination. F PN ISAAC + LULU is available at Sills + Co, 220 Jervois Road, Herne Bay ISAAC + LULU, 26 Clarence Street, Devonport, T: 09 445 3356, www.sills-and-co.com/isaac-+-lulu

Name someone you think is a great greater Ponsonby retail salesperson.

All three girls who work at Sills + Co: Tina, Ruthie and Nancie. F PN SILLS + CO, 220 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 2835, www.sills-and-co.com

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING DANNY PATO NAMED 2016 HAIR EXPO NEW ZEALAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR The most prestigious award in hairdressing, the Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo Awards New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year was awarded to Danny Pato of D&M Hair Design in Ponsonby - a first-time winner.

The annual awards are the final night highlight of Hair Expo Australia, the largest hairdressing event in the Southern Hemisphere which was staged in Melbourne over the Australian Queen’s Birthday long weekend. Danny received his trophy at a spectacular gala ceremony in The Plenary event centre on Monday 13 June hosted by TV personality, Richard Reid.

“When they read out my name, I initially went into shock, and even had to ask my husband Ryland to walk me up to the stage to accept the award,” says Pato. “Once the shock wore off, I felt like Miss Universe and loved having the D&M salon team there with me.”

Celebrating its 31st anniversary this year, the annual Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo Awards are the longest running and most respected awards in the New Zealand and Australian hairdressing industry. They set the industry standard in the region and represent the pinnacle of hairdressing excellence in the Southern Hemisphere.

“D&M has been fortunate enough to have won several awards over our 10 years in business,” says Danny. “But I must admit there has always been a special place in our trophy cabinet waiting for this one. Hair Expo is like the Oscars for hairdressers.”

The strength of the Hair Expo NZ Hairdresser of the Year award lies in the fact that unlike any other industry award, it is based 50/50 on a photographic collection as well as on a year of service to the industry plus business performance. The end result is that the recipients of the awards represent not only the best, most creative hairdressers of our region but are also industry leaders with the highest possible levels of personal integrity.

“The Hair Expo Awards are an engine for excellence for hairdressing,” says Julia Erben, Hair Expo Event Director. “For over three decades, they have created an independent

platform for the best of the best in our industry to showcase their talent to their peers and to the rest of the world.”

This year’s awards were judged by an illustrious panel of 12 international judges and 25 from Australia and New Zealand, comprising a global who’s who of the hairdressing industry. And for the first time, this year, the winners of both Australian and New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year were awarded funding to stage a show at Salon International in London, Europe’s premier hairdressing event.

“As part of the award, I’ll be heading to London to show at Salon International, an honour I’m really excited about,” says Danny.

“In the meantime, I’ve got several creative projects on the go including NZ Fashion Week, AUT Rookie, magazine editorials, etc, plus I’ll be working on the salon floor full-time, so it’s going to be busy. I wouldn’t have it any other way because I love what I do.”

The awards gala wrapped up the 31st year of Hair Expo Australia and 2016 was a record year for visitor numbers with more than 10,000 visitors from around the region and interstate as well as overseas. Having staged the show in Melbourne this year for the first time, Hair Expo will return to Sydney in 2017 at the ICC in Darling Harbour from 10-12 June 2017. (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN

FIVE THINGS ANYONE CAN DO TO START LIVING MORE SUSTAINABLY I think many of us genuinely care about our planet, about the state of the world around us - and can see the need for change, perhaps can even see the tremendous potential that exists for what that change might look like.

Yet at the same time we all lead busy lives. We need bite-sized but real and meaningful actions that we can do, actions that we believe and trust are going to be worthwhile.

Here are five ideas to get you started: 1. Start questioning The world we all inhabit can be a funny old place. There’s a lot to celebrate about it, but there’s also a lot we could improve. Just because certain things are, doesn’t mean that’s the way they have to be. Our consumer culture for example - our propensity to consume, dispose, waste. Start challenging some of the things you observe that don’t sit right with you. Take action. Encourage others to do the same.

2. Start small Living sustainably, for many, might feel like an overwhelming concept. It’s far easier to continue with the status quo because the comforts of everyday life just end up winning out, right? And wouldn’t living sustainably involve a massive change in lifestyle? Not necessarily. Change is more likely to stick when you start small and see evidence of progress. Right now, I want you to pick one thing you can adopt, adapt, or drop for the next month that will help contribute to living a more sustainable life. And then actually do it. Next month, you’ll be so used to it that picking up a new change will be no drama. And so on you go.

Some ideas to get you started: Take public transport one day per week. Buy and use a reusable coffee cup. Save plastic bags by carrying your fruit and veggies loose in the shopping basket. Go to the local market instead of the big corporate supermarket down the road.

3. Seek local Explore your neighbourhood. Support local business owners. Buy products made locally.

Not only are you more likely to be exploring by foot, connecting with your community is incredible for your sense of wellbeing. Every time you shop locally you send a clear message about the type of business you prefer to support. It all adds up and your dollar is a very powerful vote.

4. Stop disposing We live in a tremendously consumer-driven culture where it’s all too easy to buy, use, dispose, replace food, clothes, electronics, furniture. Yet there are people in our own communities who go without. Next time you are tempted to spend up large at a big sale, consider whether it’s really necessary. How much waste will this ultimately create? Next time you go to throw things out, consider who might benefit from your old stuff. Check out local agencies like Salvation Army and Refugee Services who might willingly take it off your hands and make a huge difference to those who could really benefit from it.

5. Spread the word For every little change you make, you could inspire someone else to do the same. A lot of people want to live more sustainably but many don’t know where to start. In your quest to live more sustainably, encourage friends, family and workmates to do the same.

Change always starts with ourselves. Taking baby steps like these, that you can see will make a tangible difference, allows the bigger change many of us dream of start to feel more within our reach. Go well on your quest to begin living a more sustainable life and PN remember that this is only the beginning. F For help and advice contact Vicki on M: 021 842 543; www.simplifyorganising.co.nz

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FASHION + STYLE CHILD LABOR FREE CERTIFIES PONSONBY FAVOURITE Fashion brand twenty-seven names has recently been certified as Child Labor Free to manufacturing level.

Established in 2006 in Wellington, twenty-seven names is a labour of love for designers Rachel Easting and Anjali Stewart (with respective backgrounds in art and fashion). twenty-seven names ranges show influences from contemporary art, a focus on quality fabrics and unique and ultra-feminine prints. Their commitment to quality extends beyond the finished product.

"We're so pleased to share that we've been certified with the Child Labor Free mark to the manufacturing level. We're proud to be on this journey with Child Labor Free.

Allowing our customers to feel even more confident when they buy a twenty-seven names garment is something we're really excited about.”

The mission is to help global supply chains become free of child labour and that children found to be engaged in child labour are protected. Child Labor Free works with brands to assess risk and to help ensure child labour is not a part of their supply chains. With more than 150 million children in child labour globally, the issue is widespread and complex. Child Labor Free works with brands through the various levels of their supply chains (manufacturing, component and, finally, back to source). The mark awarded helps consumers make informed choices on the products they buy.

Child Labor Free CEO, Nik Webb-Shephard, says conscious consumerism is on the rise and the Child Labor Free mark is a way for brands to tell the story of their supply chain to consumers - promoting a consumer-led movement for positive change.

“We want to congratulate twenty-seven names for undertaking the challenge we’re posing brands. We want more brands to join us, to share their journey with their consumers and to support efforts to improve supply chains so that children are not relied upon to produce our goods. All children deserve to have the opportunity to go to school, get an education and gain the skills required to create better futures for themselves.” F PN TWENTY-SEVEN NAMES www.twentysevennames.com CHILD LABOR FREE www.childlaborfree.com

FASHION FIGHTS CHILD ABUSE The New Zealand fashion industry is, obviously, not a place you’ll find social workers or perhaps anyone who holds the skills needed in the direct fight against the epidemic of child abuse in this country.

But you will find parents and people who feel just as broken as anybody when they read about cases like Moko Rangitoheriri's in the news. They are people who make beautiful things and take great photographs and have crazy ideas - and those are skills too - skills that produce results which speak to massive audiences.

Moko Rangitoheriri was three when he died as the result of beatings, torture sessions and deprivation. His sister tried to hide him in a wardrobe, terrified, in the days before he died. But his caregivers found him. He died alone on the floor in a hallway. In this country, one child is killed every five weeks.

"We asked a bunch of the country’s best fashion designers to lend us pieces from their latest collections. We asked our friends’ kids to put the clothes on, helped by two stylists. We arranged a studio, photographer, make-up and hair artist, production crew and graphic designer if they’d help us pull it together. We only asked the best people in Auckland. Nobody said no.

Angela Bevan and Adam Bryce believe that every New Zealand community can and should offer what it can towards a solution for our country’s appalling child abuse rates.

"What we’ve made - la la la zine - is not going to change the outcome for Moko or the children who have suffered before him. But 100% of the money raised from it will be handed over to Shine, an organisation who directly help thousands of children and women affected by family violence and who also help the perpetrators of that violence to change their behaviour. By us making this and you buying it, we will have contributed to the resources required for a service like Shine to reach and help more kids.”

“We believe that every community should do something - whatever they’re best at. So, because we are a community, this is our something. It’s what we’re best at.

La la la can be bought at Ponsonby stores Eugenie, Ingrid Starnes, Kate Sylvester and PN Zambesi for a minimum donation of $10. F

photography: Adam Bryce

LA LA LA ZINE www.victory-books.com

London wears Ingrid Starnes

78 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

DeeDee wears Eugenie

Carter wears Zambesi PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

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HELENE RAVLICH: HEALTH + BEAUTY

Local beauty: Dr Sarah Hart on the power of retinols I swear in my life I have tried about every single ‘hope in a jar’ out there, spending God knows how much on moisturisers, eye creams, serums and whatnot as I battle the creeping signs of ageing.

There’s certainly no way to escape them, but a little softening here and there is more than welcome and if I can find a product that gives my skin that extra boost then bring it on.

In the skincare world there is one thing that we know absolutely delivers the goods however, and that’s retinol.

Some retinoids are so potent that they can completely change your skin overnight, but not all are created equal. There are a lot of misconceptions about retinol too, with good reason.

Also there is the fact that there are ‘Retin-A’ products, and ‘retinol’ products... and both are ‘retinoids’. It’s all vitamin A, but the first kind is pretty heavy-duty (ie, you need a prescription) and the second type you can buy over the counter. Unlike standard exfoliators, retinoids work at the cellular level to increase collagen, smooth out annoying fine lines and even-out the tone, all of which are on my shopping list thankyou very much.

This is where the experts come in and in my humble opinion you shouldn’t embark upon the use of a retinol without first consulting one. My choice is Skin Institute Ponsonby’s Dr Sarah Hart, who is a fountain of knowledge (and then some) when it comes to all things skin. What this woman doesn't know about how to transform and take years off your visage is just not worth knowing. When I first met her, I was immediately struck by her incredible knowledge base and her approachability. When it comes to the kind of patients Sarah sees, discretion and a caring approach is key, and she has both in spades. A Fellow of the New Zealand College of Appearance Medicine, Sarah is one of only two New Zealand doctors on the international Botox Advisory Board and trains other doctors around the country in facial rejuvenation techniques.

“It is so important that you talk to someone before trying retinol,” she says of the proven skin rejuventor,

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adding, “for some people even the weakest retinol can cause havoc if they haven’t first restored the barrier of their skin.” She says the first thing to do when you want to try one is look at your cleanser, “as so many people are using ones that are just stripping their skin with ingredients like sodium laurel sulfate. The trend towards just using oil to cleanse your skin is much preferable, and really effective.” Adding vitamin A to a non-prepped skin can be “a recipe for disaster, with redness, irritation and flaking that can put you off for life,” Sarah tells me. If your skin is particularly sensitive you can also wait 10 minutes after cleansing before applying your retinol, to allow your natural oils to start appearing again.

She says that once your skin is ready, adding small amounts of vitamin A is the way to go, and it can take up to 12 weeks to work your way up to the level that will start making a real difference to your skin. “Then you’ll start to get that elusive dewy look,” says Sarah, “and your skin will feel thicker and pigment will be fading.” She likes to use a moisturiser before or after applying retinol, and this is again when your skin expert will step in and advise which of the two is the best for you.

Often called “the perfect entry level retinol”, Aspect’s Retinol Brulee is one of the names that does what it says, and is a great place to start. Unlike some of the more questionable so-called ‘Retinol’ products out there, it promises to deliver the results you want day after day, week after week, month after month, and you get the long-term results accordingly. It is the first Australian -developed cosmeceutical to take advantage of what is called 'Tocoretinate' technology, a non-irritating variety of 'true' esterified vitamin A acid that is guaranteed to maintain its potency and superior performance even under the most adverse of conditions. To further enhance the aforementioned Tocoretinate, the clever clogs at

Aspect have now literally turbocharged Retinol Brulee with the addition of Lanablue, a remarkable Blue algae extract that clinically mimics the topical cosmetic effects of pure retinol without any of the side effects.

Sarah is a huge fan of the Skin Medica range’s retinol offerings, which are three depending on which level works with your skin, and are practitioner only. “I love Skin Medica and the Aspect Dr range as they have true clinical data behind them,” she tells me. “They have tested them and they work. I also have incredible support from both companies in terms of education and asking advice on my clients.” See, even the experts consult with the experts!

So if you are looking at adding a retinol to your skincare arsenal then please do, but ask advice beforehand and always, always use a sunscreen. You will reap the benefits!

(HELENE RAVLICH) F PN THE SKIN INSTITUTE, 3 St Marys Road, T: 0800 754 637, www.skininstitute.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING

NATURE BABY @ KELMARNA GARDENS Nature Baby held a day out at the Kelmarna Gardens last month for mothers and their toddlers, the first of its kind.

On the day, guests were provided with a free cup of either Kokako organic coffee or coconut milk hot chocolates alongside a serving of hot pumpkin, oregano and thyme soup, freshly made with vegetables picked from the gardens.

To keep the kids entertained throughout the day a number of events were held, including rides on Jafa the pony and wheelbarrow rides, as well as walks through the gardens.

Jacob Faull, director of Nature Baby, is pleased with the turnout and plans to repeat the event next year.

“I moved from the concrete jungle of London and was amazed to find a place like this in the suburbs,” he said. “This day is all about fundraising and shining a light on the gardens. Giving people something to escape to from the growing concrete of Auckland city is really important for both parents and the community.” Adrian Roche, garden manager at Kelmarna, is pleased with the event and hopes it will show people that the gardens are open to the public.

“People don’t seem to know if they’re allowed in,” he said. “We’re trying to show people that they are welcome and that the gardens are a public space.”

He also hopes the fundraising will help the appearance and management of the gardens.

photography: George Shiers

“We’d like to improve the entrance especially so that people notice the gardens and know they can come in. An archway would be good and we also need to do some work on the car park.” (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN

Adrian Roche and Jacob Faull

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ANDREA FRIRES: HOLISTIC MEDICALCENTRE CENTRE: ANDREA FRIRES HOLISTIC MEDICAL

Mood Many people notice that their mood and energy levels begin to dip when the days are colder and shorter. Our bodies naturally hunker down through the winter months as we are innately programmed to conserve our energy to survive this more challenging time of year.

I’m sure most people would agree that jumping out of bed is hardly the most inspiring thing to do on a cold, dark winter’s morning!

Although a small shift in mood is common, some people may notice that their mood seems lower than normal, and they can be particularly affected by the change in season. While there can be a wide variety of emotional and environmental issues that can affect an individual’s mood there are some key contributing factors that may be worth considering.

Hormonal imbalances can cause mood disturbances including anxiety, anger and depression.

In particular, high levels of oestrogen can be linked to physical discomfort such as weight gain, fluid retention and headaches which can also adversely impact our mood. Premenstrual, perimenopausal and post-menopausal women can be particularly affected by hormone fluctuations, but everyone, including men, can experience hormonal imbalances.

Nutrients that support digestion and detoxification pathways can help our bodies to break down excess hormones and restore balance. Zinc and B vitamins are key nutrients for this. Phytoestrogenic foods such as flaxseed, legumes and properly prepared non-GMO soy, can also help to reduce the impact of excess body oestrogens by blocking the docking sites of this hormone in body cells.

Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can cause dramatic mood and energy swings. If you find yourself constantly turning to sweet foods or caffeinated drinks for energy then this is a sign that you are experiencing some degree of blood sugar imbalance. The best way to avoid this is to limit your consumption of caffeine and sugary or refined carbohydrate foods, breads, muffins, biscuits and lollies, and try to have a maximum of one coffee daily.

The thyroid gland plays a major role in our energy production as well as being intricately involved with the regulation of our mood, hormones, weight, body temperature, and cholesterol levels. Signs of a sluggish thyroid include depressed mood, poor concentration, weight gain, dry skin and cold hands and feet. Often low thyroid function is not considered a problem until medication is required. However, many people with suboptimal thyroid function can find great relief from their symptoms by taking nutrients that specifically support their thyroid health. Iodine is one of these key nutrients as it is the main ingredient of thyroid hormones. Zinc and selenium are also intricately involved in thyroid hormone production and activation. Seafood such as mussels, oysters, and edible seaweeds are rich sources of these minerals. However, if you aren’t regularly eating seafood, it may pay to take a good-quality supplement to boost your levels.

Deficiencies are very common in New Zealand due to low levels in our soils. It is best to check with a qualified health care professional to ensure safe dosing. The amount of iodine required varies among individuals, so getting this right is important as excessive iodine intake can cause dangerous hyperthyroid symptoms Serotonin is an important hormone for balancing our mood. It helps us to feel happy and content. Up to 80% of this is thought to be made in our bowels. A happy digestive system is a happy mind! If you experience excessive bloating, gas, heartburn or abdominal

82 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

discomfort, this is an indicator your bowels aren’t as cheery as they could be. Fermented foods such as yoghurt and sauerkraut contain probiotic bacteria that improve digestive health. For those with severe digestive discomfort, the beneficial yeast Saccharomyces boulardii can help soothe digestive inflammation and help probiotic bacteria to recolonise.

Good nutrition plays a key role in maintaining our mood. Any deficiencies in our vital nutrients can have a knock-on effect on the way that we feel. Magnesium is often depleted in depression and anxiety and it plays an important role in the cellular uptake of serotonin.

Zinc is important for serotonin production too and like magnesium it is commonly depleted with stress and depression. Low levels of folate, iron, omega 3 essential fatty acids, and vitamin D have also been linked to low mood and depression and are common deficiencies in New Zealand. Some people lack the enzyme that is required to convert folate into its active form L-5-methy tetrahydrofolate and may require an activated form of this vitamin to assist optimal health and mood.

Protein supplies us with essential amino acids to synthesise our mood-boosting hormones serotonin and dopamine. Tryptophan is an important amino acid for the production of serotonin. Some fabulous dietary sources include free-range chicken, eggs, sardines, cod, halibut, and wild salmon. Tyrosine helps synthesise dopamine in the brain. Ripe bananas, eggs, almonds and meats are good sources of this essential amino acid.

Mood-boosting foods • Mushrooms A handful of mushrooms will provide 36% of your recommended daily intake of selenium, and are the richest source of selenium in the produce department.

• Leafy greens such as spinach, kale and silverbeet are excellent sources of the mood -boosting nutrients folate and magnesium. Include a good serving of these daily.

• Seafood supplies a rich supply of omega 3 oils for healthy mood as well as zinc and iodine for thyroid health. Choose oily fish such as sardines, anchovies or wild caught salmon for their superior omega 3 supply. Mussels and oysters provide high levels of zinc, while sea veggies such as New Zealand karengo are rich in iodine.

• Fermented foods supply beneficial probiotic bacteria to support bowel health and the production of the mood-boosting hormone serotonin.

• Cinnamon is a spice that is traditionally used to help support blood sugar regulation.

Use this liberally in cooking, mixed into natural muesli, or add to soups and smoothies to help with maintain your blood sugar levels and rebalance your mood.

(ANDREA FRIRES) F PN Andrea Frires is a qualified naturopath, nutritionist and medical herbalist from The Holistic Medical Centre, 48 Ponsonby Road. To make an appointment for a consultation with Andrea or any of the holistic GP’s call T: 09 370 0650 or visit www.holisticmedicalcentre.co.nz for more information.

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

LIVING, THINKING + BEING LISA SAID SO OOMPH, the naturopathic practice of Lisa Fitzgibbon, might be new to Ponsonby but Lisa has been in the natural health industry since 2007 (OOMPH was previously based in Mission Bay).

As a naturopath and medical herbalist, Lisa often gets asked a lot of the same questions on general health. She also sees a lot of people making the same health mistakes. Many people are confused by the enormous amount of conflicting information and recommendations about health.

Her response to these issues was to create www.lisasaid.so - a blog about health. This is also a valuable reference tool for her clients.

Lisa says it shouldn’t be hard to achieve good health and wellness.

• • • • • •

Eat a wholefood diet - predominantly fresh, varied, seasonal, and preferably organic.

Drink filtered water.

Minimise your anti-nutrients, eg, sugar, coffee, alcohol and medications.

Get mild to moderate exercise 3-5 times weekly.

Get good sleep and have great sex.

Be positive, have fun, laugh and relax with positive people.

Need more support to achieve good health and wellness?

Go and see her! Depending upon your objectives, she can advise you on what to eat, supplements and herbal medicine to take, and lifestyle changes to consider.

For more information about what to expect from an appointment with Lisa, read her blog-post: http://lisasaid.so/its-time-to-get-things-started Lisa has a special interest in treating: • Food intolerance • Correcting thyroid dysfunction To arrange an appointment with Lisa email her at lisa@oomphhealth.co.nz or call 09 528 8365 for an appointment.

OOMPH HEALTH, 1 Maidstone Street, Grey Lynn, T: 09 528 8365, www.oomphhealth.co.nz

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CLARE CALDWELL: THE ART OF LIVING In July of last year, a number of synchronicities guided me towards Auckland City Mission where I have run a voluntary painting, drawing and mask-making class ever since.

What struck me immediately when I began at the Mission was the intuitive and enthusiastic participation of the people coming into the class. They knew instinctively that art has a therapeutic quality; they knew that engaging in creativity of any kind shifted one’s thinking away from worries and into the freedom of right-brained expansion. I was blown away by this insightfulness and intelligence of engagement, especially after working for so many years in areas with people who mostly didn’t seem to even ‘get it’, let alone validate it as a healing process.

Now, nearly a year later, I see the power of art as a therapeutic modality manifesting every week in my class. Eye contact is now held, hoodies are thrown back and beautiful faces and souls are slowly being revealed.

There is a strictly no violence, no verbal abuse policy in the class, which as a result has created a safe place for self revelation, self exploration and tentative new engagements back into life and employment. It is a respite from the pressures of outside life and the encompassing energy is one of aroha, respect and inspiration.

Many have been struggling for years with problems, feeling powerless and isolated. The gentle, supportive and insightful problem sharing, problem solving and comradeship I have witnessed is simply beautiful. As an artist and creative arts therapist, I believe passionately in the efficacy of the arts as validating, healing, inspiring and ultimately transformational modalities.

so marginalised of communities. Please come and support the show and meet the artists - it’ll be a valuable journey on so many levels.

The exhibition is named:

KO AHAU KO TE TOI KO TE TOI KO AHAU

The translation reads:

I AM THE ART & THE ART IS ME

Venue:

Depot Artspace, Devonport

Dates: 24 July - 13 August. Opening from midday 23 July. For more information, go to: PN www.depotartspace.co.nz (CLARE CALDWELL) F Clare (Claudie) Caldwell is a creative arts therapist who runs a small private practice from home. She now runs a voluntary art and art therapy programme at Auckland City Mission. She is also a freelance artist. Enquiries: T: 09 836 3618; M: 021 293 3171; E: clare.e.caldwell@gmail.com

The privilege of holding this class and the honour of people slowly trusting me with their inner processes, conversationally and through art-making has now become an expansive part of my own inner journey. It is both humbling and enlightening.

In July of this year, the Mission artists will be having a multi-media exhibition of painting, drawing, mask-making, carving, clay work and photography at a community gallery in Devonport. The show will run for three weeks. Having work professionally displayed and observed by the public will be a first for many and I believe will be enormously beneficial on many levels, especially for those who have never felt the pride of accomplishment.

This exhibition will celebrate the absolutely wonderful and diverse talents of the Mission artists and offers a platform for recognition and a redefining of self-image in this often

BECOME A FRIEND OF

K ELMARNA GARDENS KELMARNA G A R D E NS

FOR AS FOR AS LITTLE LITTLE AS AS $$55 A M MONTH ONT H Your regular donation will help connect more school children with nature, empower people all

over Auckland with sustainable living choices and develop and maintain a therapeutic garden. Join now at: www.kelmarnagardens.nz/donate

84 PONSONBY NEWS+ July 2016

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

JOHN APPLETON: ON HEALTH

Our health system - some new thinking required?

In the recent budget we were advised that a further $2.2 billion was being allocated to health. This will take the total to approximately $16.2 billion per annum or $45 million every day.

While additional expenditure is necessary as our population increases, the question should be asked; is the money we are using to fund our health system really improving the overall health of New Zealanders?

Regardless of what spend we seem to have an ever increasing number of sick people. Hospitals, which in an ideal world should be for trauma patients, are being used more and more for treating the end stage of chronic illness.

Any sage observer could be forgiven for wondering if it is our health system itself that is sick. Quite plainly, if our objective by spending $45 million every day is to have a healthier nation, the statistics certainly don’t suggest that we are even close to achieving this. The problem is that instead of promoting health and everything that is involved with keeping people out of the health system, we keep pouring money into the treatment of sickness.

As many a grandma said "an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure". Currently we are spending nearly $16 billion plus on the ‘treatment’ side of the ledger and almost nothing on prevention. Rather than a healthcare system, what we have is, in reality, a disease care system.

If we keep looking in the wrong place it’s unlikely we will ever find what we are looking for. When it comes to finding 'cures' it’s very difficult to imagine how any drug will 'trump' the impact of environmental toxins, chemical exposures, poor food choices and lack of exercise. The goal of having a healthier nation will continue to elude us until we implement preventive measures and we give people the freedom to choose the type of healthcare that they want. This would necessitate allowing doctors to use treatment options that they believe would achieve the best outcomes for their patients.

The Declaration of Helsinki 1964 (of the World Medical Organisation) states “It is the mission of the physician to safeguard the health of the people. His or her knowledge and conscience are dedicated to the fulfillment of this mission. A physician must be free to use the most appropriate treatment if in his or her judgment it will result in the alleviation of suffering or the restoration of health or saving the life of the patient”.

Imagine if we had easy access to intravenous vitamin C in hospitals and doctors’ surgeries. Imagine if doctors were able to prescribe simple and totally safe nutritional interventions to address high blood pressure, heart rhythm, heart failure, diabetes, arthritis and digestive

disorders, to name a few. Imagine if nutrition (the most important consideration when it comes to our health) was the focus of any visit to a doctor. I have read that in China, doctors are paid to keep a patient well. I am not sure how true this is but it’s an interesting concept that could be explored.

Sadly today, doctors who choose to practice along these lines using their knowledge and skill to find the best way to help a patient can risk censure by the Medical Council and have their treatments labelled as quackery.

The reason for this is that our health system is a state controlled monopoly which is solely focussed on very costly pharmaceutical interventions. There is absolutely no competition permitted, thus we never get to find out what works and what doesn’t.

In 2012 New Zealand Herald Journalist Paul Little wrote. “There is much more money to be made from developing and promoting drugs to cure illnesses caused by unhealthy lifestyles than there is to be made from supporting healthy lifestyles. The paradox at the heart of our health system is that the medical industry depends on people being sick. Surgeons, nurses, clinicians and hospitals need sick people to make a living.”

(JOHN APPLETON) F PN

APPLETON ASSOCIATES, T: 09 489 9362, john@johnappleton.co.nz, www.johnappleton.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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CARING PROFESSIONAL Annabelle Garnett Tena koutou! I am a relationship property lawyer and mummy to two rowdy kids.

Oliver is 10 and Jemima is seven. I am married to Joshua (also a lawyer), Christian and committed to issues of social justice. I am studying Te Reo at the moment, having previously studied our reo at the University of Auckland. The inclusion of Te Reo as a compulsory subject in the New Zealand curriculum remains a particularly pressing issue for me. Specifically, I would like to see our Ministry of Education embrace a commitment to formal inclusion from pre-school, right through to year 13.

I am a volunteer at my local rest home, the lovely Selwyn Village, and I am on the board of a Teen Parent Unit in West Auckland named Ohana. When I am not lawyering or running the kids around to all of their sports, I love to watch rugby, eat good kai and hang out with friends.

How did you come to be a lawyer?

I am not exactly sure - it was so long ago. I did like debating at school, and I remember having romantic notions of the diplomatic corps - until I realised how smart you had to be to get in!

What do you love about your job?

It’s a privilege helping people through extremely turbulent times. Invariably, my clients are upset and in need of robust, but caring legal advice.

What do you find challenging?

In my role, I often advocate for the disadvantaged, the vulnerable and the marginalised.

When people are stressed, it’s harder to obtain clear instructions from them.

How do you differ from other lawyers?

I think our firm is a bit different from others. We’re a genuinely family-focussed practice.

We’re kind of the antithesis to the corporate model. Why be like everyone else?

Can you share an anecdote about a case?

I had a wonderful client a few years ago who had been through such a hard time. She was fostered by many families, subjected to unspeakable abuse but had finally been adopted by the most lovely family. When I met her, she was really struggling financially.

Although she worked hard in a full-time job, she was a single mum with two adorable children and she was struggling to make ends meet. Things were so tight on her low income that she had resorted to watering the milk down. My heart just ached for her and those kids.

What do you do to care for yourself?

I spend lots of time with my family and friends. It costs you nothing. No amount of expensive moisturiser, coconut yoghurt or Pilates could ever rival the fulfilment I get from whanau and my besties.

What's your advice to people seeking legal advice?

Don’t get stung by outdated views about relationship property. Unless you want to divide everything 50-50, protect your property in a contracting-out agreement. F PN Whaley Garnett www.whaleygarnett.co.nz

ALZHEIMERS AUCKLAND PROVIDES A SHOULDER TO CRY ON It was a harrowing time for Joe Macarthur when he found out his mother Ann Macarthur had Alzheimer's Disease, just days after his father suddenly passed away.

Joe, from Ponsonby, said it was extremely tough not knowing who to turn to or how to help his mother, until he went to Alzheimers Auckland.

“Finding no one to help, I walked into Alzheimers Auckland. It was about five past nine and the poor receptionist probably hadn’t even had a cup of coffee yet, and I broke down, into that ugly kind of cry. They were amazing. The biggest thing for me, other than a coffee and some reassurance, was that they took my contact details and said ‘we will look after everything, we will look after you’ at a time where I was having to instigate everything.”

Research shows that two in three New Zealanders will be affected by dementia in some way throughout their lifetime, as the impact of dementia is wider than just those who are diagnosed. Being a carer for someone with dementia can be challenging, and while the bulk of the strain lies on those diagnosed with dementia, carers also require support and assistance.

That’s why Alzheimers Auckland is looking for volunteers to collect donations outside Countdown stores from 1-3 July as part of the Countdown Annual Alzheimers Appeal.

The money raised will go towards Alzheimers Auckland’s comprehensive range of support services for more than 1600 people living with dementia. These services provide information, education and ongoing dementia support for those living with dementia and their carers and communities.

Joe is one of many who has received support from Alzheimers Auckland and he said the organisation not only helped him to understand dementia, but how to support his mum.

“In particular, for me, they taught me how to talk to my mother because I was constantly going through conflict with her. I didn’t know what Alzheimer's was, or that me trying to get her to do things was challenging for her.”

He said after his father had passed away, he thought Ann was grieving the loss of her husband.

“I thought mum was just going through shock and grief like I was, but it was progressing to be really unusual.”

He eventually found out his mother had been diagnosed with dementia the year before, after talking to the family doctor.

“With mum and dad being together for 60 years, they looked after each other. I kept thinking mum was losing her hearing. Only in retrospect, do you start thinking ‘that was a sign’. They worked together, it wasn’t until he passed away that she didn’t have her back-up that she got worse.”

Joe said without Alzheimers Auckland’s “amazing” help, it would have made a tough time unbearable and he encourages others to seek help as well.

If you’re interested in helping support Alzheimers Auckland (and the work they do for people with dementia and their carers) by volunteering outside your local Countdown from 1-3 July, contact Sarah Knight on volunteer@alzheimers.co.nz. Even two hours of PN your support would be a huge help! F

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

LITTLE BIRD RELEASES APP The deliciously nutritious food from local cafe Little Bird on Summer Street off Ponsonby Road, has taken flight with the release of the new Unbakery App. Megan May, creator of Little Bird Organics and The Unbakery, is delighted to release the Unbakery App, which is packed full with over 100 new plant-powered recipes for healthy food lovers to enjoy anytime, anywhere, right at their fingertips.

"Opening The Unbakery cafes was a dream of mine, and now with the app we get to go one step further and share the amazing food we create down here at our end of the world with the rest of the globe. Now that's amazing!" says Megan.

Megan May

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

Megan's interest and connection with food and wellness developed from a young age. Being her own living experiment, she found that she thrived on a predominantly raw, wholefoods and plant-based diet. Megan believes that food should not only taste amazing, but make you feel amazing too.

The Unbakery App offers numerous tasty meal ideas to take you from breakfast to dinner, and delicious yet healthy snacks and desserts - all with mouth-watering imagery. Each recipe includes an introduction, an easy to follow step-by-step guide, and tips and tricks to help you master the basics. The recipes in the app are entirely plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free and refined sugar-free as well as predominantly raw, vegan and paleo, with new recipes added each season.

The Unbakery App is available to download on Apple devices for $7.49 and is currently with Android undergoing app development.

THE UNBAKERY RECIPE APP, www.theunbakery.co.nz LITTLE BIRD ORGANICS, www.littlebirdorganics.co.nz

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING Arvigo Maya abdominal massage therapies A healing practice every woman should know. "Rosanna from Aroha Healing is a miracle worker," says a recent client.

"I’ve had a number of Arvigo® and Steam treatments from Rosanna leading up to fertility treatment which resulted in a pregnancy. I have no doubt that the work I did with Rosanna prepared my womb for the implantation of the embryo. I also found the treatment incredibly relaxing and it relieved stress in a way that I had not experienced before. In the past my stomach had always felt quite tight and I had lots of digestion issues.

“The self-care Rosanna taught me transformed my stomach into a soft, stress-free zone in a very short amount of time. I felt connected to my whole body and felt more alive. Once I have my baby, I will be going straight back to Rosanna for after-birth care. I believe that every woman would benefit from this treatment, no matter what your circumstances are.

I could not recommend this treatment with Rosanna more highly,” says Angela Maurice.

Arvigo® Maya Massage is offered at Aroha Healing. It is a modern adaptation of ancient Mayan healing techniques that adds modern knowledge of anatomy, physiology and herbology. Through non-invasive massage, this technique gently manipulates the muscles and connective tissue that hold the pelvic organs in place. The intention is to reposition the pelvic organs so that any blockages and congestion are removed.

When blockages and congestion are resolved, the body can self-regulate, heal and regenerate. In addition, physiologically, there is increased blood flow, the functioning of the lymphatic system and nervous system are optimized, and life creating energy is maximised. Both female and male fertility can be enhanced by applying these massage techniques.

Specifically, Arvigo® Maya Massage benefits fertility in the following ways: For women: Increases blood flow to the reproductive organs; nourishes follicles with fresh blood supply and oxygen; helps to break down scar tissue and adhesions; helps cysts to dissolve; helps to resolve blockages in the fallopian tubes; re-aligns uterus, as in the case of a prolapsed or 'tilted' uterus; relieves stress and anxiety, releasing emotional blockages; improves digestion and absorption of nutrients; helps to regulate the menstrual cycle (addresses cramps, heavy bleeding, irregular cycles, reduces clotting); restores healthy menstrual flow in amenorrhea; improves, tones and cleanses the uterine lining; helps to prepare the body to carry a healthy pregnancy, helpful in the case of frequent miscarriage.

Clothing Alterations

Alter Ego Roong T: 09 376 8689

For men: Increases blood flow to the reproductive organs; regulates enlarged prostate; improves sperm (count, motility and morphology); improves digestion and absorption of nutrients.

M: 021 032 9128

182-4a Jervois Road, Herne Bay E: ra_cha29@yahoo.com “I get all my bits & pieces done by the smiling helpful Roong... and she’s got Eftpos = sorted...” MARTIN LEACH

When reproductive organs shift out of proper position, they can constrict normal flow of blood, lymph and nerve connections. Just a few extra grammes of weight sitting on delicate blood and lymph vessels can cause havoc throughout the different systems of the body. For women, by gently shifting the uterus back into place, homeostasis (or the natural internal balance of the body) is brought back to the pelvic area and surrounding organs.

Toxins are flushed and nutrients that help to tone tissue and balance hormones are restored to normal order. This is essential for conception. Old adhesions from invasive treatments to the pelvic and abdominal area, are diminished gradually and safely when addressed by uterine massage.

To read more about Arvigo® therapies, please go to the Aroha Healing website or email Rosanna directly. (ROSANNA MARKS) F PN AROHA HEALING, 3 Maidstone Street, M: 0273 866 587 or T: 0800 MINDBODY, E: info@arohahealing.co.nz, www.arohahealing.co.nz

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LIVING, THINKING + BEING

HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS Here’s what work from some of the very best hairstylists in the country looks like. Each were finalists in the Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Expo Awards New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, with D&M’s Danny Pato the eventual winner.

Sara Allsop

Natasha King

Michael Beel

Jock Robson

Mana Dave

Danny Pato The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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SARAH-JANE ATTIAS: HEALTHY LIVING ‘I’ve got a touch of winter blues’, coupled with an old sports knee injury that seems to resurface every year. It’s school holidays, we are in the mayhem of packing for skiing and little Jack has a nasty lingering cough, post cold and is complaining of sore ribs. How can osteopathy help with all of this? Thanks, Tanya T.

Q:

A:

Many clients have a similar challenging line-up of sniffles, coughs, congested conditions, winter blues, and with chilly, damp air your joint and muscular injuries can flare. These are all very real conditions - brought about by a change in weather and yes I can offer you several self-care options and osteopathic treatments to lift your ‘winter’ ailments.

Kiddies - splutters, sniffles and snuffles I’d like to help you with little Jack first, as he is most vulnerable heading into colder climes. Osteopathic treatment is very helpful in reducing inflammation and tightness of muscles between his ribs. This is achieved by gently articulating and improving the blood supply to areas that have become restricted with all the coughing in and around the areas of Jack's diaphragm, ribs, spine and breastbone.

Moving up to his head, shoulders, neck and throat, we can greatly improve the function of his sinuses, calm the nervous systems and reactivate his lymphatic drainage - one of his primary immune defence systems. I stock various blends of therapeutic-grade oils for rubbing, infusing and ingesting, which do help to open and calm all the breathing pathways. This enables Jack to ‘sleep’, one of the greatest healers (for mother and child!) I also suggest to minimise dairy products.

NOTE - Do check with your GP that there are no ‘red flags’. An unresolved cough could for example be a sign of a ‘strep’ throat, that can lead to complications like rheumatic fever.

Winter blues Let’s start with understanding what is happening to your body in winter. Deep in our brain, is the pineal gland that produces melatonin, which maintains our internal body clock, modulating both sleep patterns and circadian rhythm. An example of when it is out of balance, which we can all relate to, is jet-lag.

Most importantly of all, have fun - I will see you on the slopes! (SARAH-JANE ATTIAS) F PN Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only. If you have a specific health problem you should seek advise from an appropriate registered health care provider. Living Osteopathy is a Primary Health Care Provider registered with ACC and the OCNZ. Living Osteopathy does not accept any liability other than to its clients.

LIVING OSTEOPATHY, 29 Scanlan Street, T: 09 361 1147, www.livingosteopathy.co.nz

With cranial osteopathy it is possible to effect the pineal gland and the surrounding tissues. Our intention is to ‘kick-start’ the reproduction of melatonin.

Vitamin D - There is a clear relationship between lowered levels of vitamin D in the blood and depression. Get a blood test and a prescription if necessary. Good maintenance doses of vitamin D can be found in egg yolks, enriched milk and certain oily fish.

According to recent research, you can place portobello mushrooms into direct sunlight and they synthesise vitamin D! SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) - this seasonal depression can be lifted by the use of lightboxes, ask your GP. Relax - remember for thousands of years winter meant we would hibernate to take stock, rest and restore. In our modern world it’s all go; work, school, and on and on.

Stir in brain stimuli such as ‘blue’ light, streaming from our electronic devices and well, frankly, we would all benefit greatly from slowing down, practising mindfulness and taking a stroll in the park.

Your recurring injury and sports Diagnosis and preparation is the key. Extreme endurance sports - skiing is definitely within that spectrum - require a build up of fitness. First, because this is a recurring injury, I would evaluate and treat you and depending on the results, I may send you onwards for an X-ray or ultrasound, this would give me a confirmed diagnosis to safely treat you with targeted warm-up exercises and stretches aimed specifically for skiing.

Assess your total body alignment and adjust, also I suggest liniments and supportive bandages. Sometimes I refer you on for specialised physio Pilates, massage and yoga. We would be strengthening and mobilising surrounding group muscles to support your knee.

Self help tips for prevention and recuperation - I stock and show you how to use specifically formulated ointments for deep curative recovery. You can alternate warm wheat bags, cold packs and rub in therapeutic grade liniments that stimulate and improve blood supply and drainage to your joints and muscles. Get into ginger tea, hot broths, miso soup, hot toddies, sauna, spa and therapeutic massage.

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FUTURE GENERATION ACG SENIOR COLLEGE GRADUATES HEAD TO WORLD’S TOP UNIVERSITIES Katherine Yang will head to Stanford University in the United States in September to study engineering and design.

Last year she was Top in the World in Painting in her Cambridge assessment.

Katherine Yang

David Lee has accepted a place at the Imperial College, London. He also received offers from the University of California, Los Angeles, Georgia State University, the University of San Diego and Bristol University in the United Kingdom. He will study electrical engineering.

Nina Jeffs has received a life-changing Girdlers’ Scholarship to the University of Cambridge, worth £32,000 per annum. Only one of the prestigious scholarships is awarded per year in New Zealand.

Nina will major in politics and international relations, starting in October.

Angela Chan gained straight A+s and As for her six Cambridge subjects. She’s going to study law at the University of Cambridge.

All four students graduated last year from ACG Senior College, a high-performing pre-university college for Years 11-13 in Lorne Street in the city.

Associate Principal Graham Gottard said the college produced self-motivated students and attracted top -quality teachers: “It’s a symbiotic relationship where both teachers and students are driven by excellence and resourced to achieve it. If you’re in a small class, in a school day that’s significantly longer, with free time in which you’re expected to liaise with your teacher or tutor - you will do well.

“The talented physicist, artist or sociologist will be matched in their enthusiasm and drive by their teachers, and the teachers are well resourced with time. The student who is driven meets no barriers here.” F PN

ACG SENIOR COLLEGE, 66 Lorne Street, Auckland City, T: 09 307 4477, www.agcedu.com/nz/senior Nina Jeffs

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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MEET THE TEACHER Regina Smuga Principal, St Joseph’s Catholic School, Grey Lynn How did you come to be a primary school teacher?

My first career was in advertising and marketing, then I had two children and became mother help in the classroom. One of my children’s teachers told me to go back to university and finish off my degree, so I did and thus began my teaching career. I have never looked back and I am still loving the daily challenge of ensuring that each child can reach their potential.

Where did you train?

Auckland College of Education, Epsom - finishing my degree majoring in mathematics at the University of Auckland.

What brought you to your current school?

I was looking for a principal’s position in a school with a great heart and great spirit.

St Joseph’s Catholic School has just that. The students are very giving and very loving.

The teachers are very passionate about what they do and the parents and community are extremely supportive. The school holds a place in the hearts of the local community and I have had so many people coming into the school offering their services just to be able to contribute to the children. We are in the process of introducing many new and innovative ideas and I can see our roll growing in the near future.

What are your favourite things about being a teacher?

Having a student say, ‘Oh, I get it!’ This is music to my ears. They also tell me I make maths fun, apparently quite the challenge!

What has been a highlight of your teaching career?

I had the opportunity to go overseas and work in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Kazakhstan, training teachers in modern pedagogical practices. I experienced entirely new and different cultures and it gave me an insight into adapting education systems and curriculums for different philosophies in teaching and learning. Working with translators in Abu Dhabi and Kazakhstan was interesting and very challenging, and experiencing different religious beliefs led me to appreciate others and grow in my own beliefs.

I was also very privileged to work in both of my children’s schools. I taught at St Peter’s College with my son and Baradene College with my daughter, although thankfully never in their classes!

What has been a low point of your teaching career?

Being in front of a class of 52 year 10, low-stream maths students who really didn’t want to learn (this was in Watford, London).

How would you describe yourself?

Hardworking, empathetic to student’s needs, innovative, always smiling.

How would other teachers describe you?

Kind and giving. Always trying to help. Fun to be with.

How would your students describe you?

Fun, pedantic, helpful, kind and very fair. Some students I meet in later life tell me I was the best maths teacher they ever had.

If you could wave a magic wand in your classroom...

Having children in the classroom know they are safe and loved. This in turn encourages them to understand the meaning of education and helps them to learn and explore. The swear jar wouldn’t be needed and all children were speaking with correct grammar, there is no such word as ‘yous’ and you say ‘Milly and I’, not ‘me and Milly’.

Five tips for mums and dads of primary school kids?

1. Ask your children what they did at school and then listen to them.

2. When you come home from work, spend at the first 30 minutes in quality time focussed on your children.

3. Let them help you with the shopping. Ask them how much things cost, get them to put six apples in the bag, get them to find 500g of cheese. Involve them in your everyday life.

4. At the end of the day, read to them, whether they are two or 12. Every child loves being read to.

5. No IT during the week. That means iPad, tablets, computer games, mobile phones, TV down to a minimum. The main thing to give your children is time.

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Regina Smuga

GRACING THE WIND Gracing the Wind is a collection of poems written by Jim Boyack throughout his life, from 1966 through to 2016.

With a foreword by famous New Zealand poet Brian Turner the book is 120 pages long and costs $30, with an additional $5 if people want it posted out to them. The original launch took place in late February upstairs at the Little Easy Pub on Ponsonby Road and the first print quickly sold out, with a second edition already available.

Sadly Jim was diagnosed with cancer last Christmas, which is what inspired him to finally publish the book, full of poems about anything that caught his interest throughout his life and made him feel something, and he hopes it will others too.

“The book is about anything that I maybe saw or heard over my life that made me feel something quite strongly,” he said. “Hopefully the book means others will too in years to come.

Another famous name associated with the book is its editor Father John Weir, who was a close friend of poet James K Baxter and who last year published a four-part book series of his life’s work.

Jim has worked as a lawyer since graduating from Otago University Law School in 1979 and currently works at Franklin Chambers in Ponsonby. (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN Gracing the Wind by Jim Boyack can be ordered from Editions Taina, PO Box 147-319, Ponsonby, Auckland 1144 or by emailing Maroussia@lcfclubs.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FUTURE GENERATION WOMEN WHO MAKE THEIR MARK ON THE WORLD Become more than you ever imagined.

An international fashion designer, a leading cancer specialist, an award-winning film and documentary writer and a highly regarded forensic scientist. What do these inspirational women have in common? They all went to Diocesan School for Girls in Auckland.

The world is changing, and the role for women is changing even faster. A growing body of research supports the fact that single-sex schools provide the best opportunity to empower girls to achieve their full potential.

“In a learning environment that is free from gender discrimination, girls achieve greater academic success, are more confident and assertive, and are more likely to study science, technology and mathematics (STEM) subjects and participate in physical education,” says Diocesan Principal Heather McRae. “Post-school, they are more likely to pursue tertiary study and careers in STEM, hold leadership positions and earn higher wages.”

But it’s not just about academic success. McRae says, “At Diocesan, girls take on leadership roles traditionally filled by men, they participate more freely in discussions, feel empowered to behave more competitively, and take healthy risks, such as trying new sporting or artistic activities.”

Dio’s vision is to give your daughter the best possible start by encouraging, challenging and inspiring her every step of the way.

At Dio, your daughter can become more than she ever imagined. F PN DIOCESAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS, Clyde Street, Epsom, T: 09 520 0221, www.diocesan.school.nz

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SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY

Fighting for good I always knew of Muhammad Ali’s Shakespearian type self-promotion, the whole “I’ve wrestled with alligators, I’ve tussled with a whale; I done handcuffed lightning and throw thunder in jail; You know I’m bad. Just last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalised a brick; I’m so mean I make medicine sick.”

Or his inspirational one liners, “I hated training, but I said ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion'." Or “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life,” are seen on posters, billboards, and computer screensavers all over the world.

entertainer, quick to launch a witty barb or make your keys disappear. But the message beneath it all was said with a grin on the lips, but with steel in the eyes: “I am America. I am the part you won’t recognize. But get used to me. Black, confident, cocky, my name, not yours. My religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me.”

But it wasn’t until his recent death that I was made aware of just how much of a social transformer he truly was, he knew how to play both sides; inspiring those around him, whilst landing blow after blow from his anti-establishment corner.

At his prime, Ali’s refusal to be inducted into the United States Army cost him his World Heavyweight title, saying at the time “I ain’t got no quarrel with those Vietcong.”

His stance on war, opposing America’s decision to send troops to Vietnam also won him great praise all around the world, but especially with young black Americans.

Basketball Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul Jabbar summed Ali up in a United States newspaper, “no one understood sports as entertainment or knew how to bring politics into it better, Ali inspired others - black and white - to fight for equality. Not just racial equality, but gender, sexual and religious equality. He never stopped being the

Ali’s leadership continues to inspire people today, his actions clearly resonating with today’s young leaders, like a man now considered a modern-day great in basketball, Le Bron James. “What he represented, as a kid, I gravitated towards him because he was a champion.”

James, like me, grew up knowing about Ali’s Olympic Gold medal and famous fights like Rumble in the Jungle, but has since also gained inspiration from Ali’s achievements outside the ring. “As I got older and started to be more

knowledgeable about sport in general and about the guys who paved the way for guys like myself, I understood that he is the greatest of all time, and he was the greatest of all time because of what he did outside of the ring.

Obviously we knew how great of a boxer he was, but I think that was only 20% of what made him as great as he was.”

Following Ali’s death, social media was flooded with tributes. Golfer Tiger Woods wrote “you'll always be The Greatest for more than just what you did in the ring.

A champion to so many people in so many ways.”

Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton also thanked Ali for inspiring him as he crossed the finish line to win this year’s Canadian Grand Prix. The Brit recited, “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. That one is for Ali.” Muhummad Ali, your truly are the G-O-A-T, Greatest Of All Time. (GEORGE BERRY) F PN

A tale of two sports Just weeks out from the 2016 Rio Olympics, the fortunes of two New Zealand sports have taken vastly different roads.

I vividly remember sitting in the stands at the London Olympics four years ago when Cathryn Finlayson slammed in a penalty corner in just the third minute of the Black Sticks women’s hockey opening match against arch rivals Australia. They won that game 1-0 and it set their tournament on the path to a potential podium.

Unfortunately the New Zealand team eventually lost the bronze medal match to Great Britain 3-1, but what their efforts showed at that tournament was they could compete against the best in the world.

They’ve continued that trend in the four years since, beating hockey powerhouses Argentina and Australia along with others on a regular basis.

However, just as I write praising both their past and potential to go even better in Rio, they’ve made a horror start to the Champions Trophy tournament in London, the final competition before Rio. Mark Hager’s crew dropped both their opening matches, firstly walloped 6-2 by the Netherlands, and then despite a hard fight back, losing their second match to Australia 3-1.

There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic and just put this blip in their 'Road to Rio' down to a one off. They have a large contingent heading to their second, third and even fourth Olympic games. While a fair few of their surnames have changed between London and Rio, with the likes of Emily Gaddum, Kayla Whitelock and Anita McLaren leading the side the team’s in a significantly better position than it’s been in for a while.

On the other hand, a final chance to send a message to their competition ahead of the Rio Olympics has left the bulk of the New Zealand rowing crews in the box seat, with their 10 crews securing 10 medals at the final World Cup regatta prior to the Rio Olympics held in Poznan, Poland.

Between the 10 crews heading to the games, they won five gold, three silver and two bronze medals.

The new look women's pair of Rebecca Scown and Genevieve Behrent lumped plenty of heat on the current Olympic Champions from Great Britain, pushing them right to

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the end, only missing gold by 1.6 seconds. This is the closest any crew has come to upsetting the Brits in the past four years, so the Kiwi pair can be awfully pleased with where they’re at.

Another resounding victory saw the lightweight men's four secure back-to-back World Cup titles and they now head to the Olympics as favourites to secure gold.

While Robbie Manson and Chris Harris showed a big improvement to trade their silver medal from the second World Cup event earlier this year to standing atop of the podium in the men's double sculls.

Perhaps the most pleasing was a gold medal in one of rowing’s flagship events, the women's eight. It was the first-ever gold medal New Zealand has won in the event at a World Cup. Oh, and let’s not forget Mahe Drysdale, Emma Twigg and the duo of Hamish Bond and Eric Murray; all three crews have been in dominant form each time they set foot in their respective boats.

So on that basis, you’d have to think there’s a stack of medals coming from the rowing in Rio and there’s still plenty of reason to hope in the women's hockey if they can iron out their recent kinks, so make sure you set your TV to record and get ready to sing the national anthem. (GEORGE BERRY) F PN PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

SIDELINE WITH GEORGE BERRY

Alcohol-free and happy There was no party, no popping of champagne. In fact, even the word celebration would be a serious exaggeration, but last month I did have a mate over to watch the rugby and mark my six months free of alcohol.

I say free because I can say with true conviction that prior to the 18th of January 2016, my body and I had been a slave to hangovers and we were trapped in a constant wrestling match with sugars and hollow carbs that kept me fat.

You see one drink for me invariably turned into 12, and my fluctuating weight was the price I paid for what I believed was a good time.

It wasn’t that long ago I was a fully paid up member of the hundy club, I tipped the scales at a scary 107kg, today I comfortably sit around 85, and whilst I’d managed to strip back a fair few of those kilos prior to giving up alcohol, for the first time in as long as I can remember I find myself no longer worried that I might soon yo-yo back to 100kg, and again be faced with the familiar challenge of trying to get the weight off.

Instead of wasting a whole day hung over on the couch or my entire week in the gym just to counteract the booze from the weekend, for the last six months I’ve happily greeted Sunday mornings with a real sense of possibility. Instead of disappearing just as quickly as they’d started to be noticed, the hard-earned results I’d achieved at the gym have finally stayed put.

Now, rather than being something other people do, things like running a marathon are a distinct probability. The Coast to Coast is a possibility and chasing my two-year old around the park is seriously fun.

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

There has been the odd time that I’ve missed a cold pint, a red wine with dinner and there’s both a new kind of flavoured vodka and a bottle of champagne in my cupboard ready to be drunk, but I’ve found a whole new world; soda water, things like flavoured ginger beers and challenging barmen to come up with an alcoholfree concoction that makes me look and feel like I’m not missing out.

Yeah, I’ve coped the usual ribbing from some mates, but there’s also a significant amount of others doing the same, heck there’s probably a heap of your mates doing it now too and you never even knew; realising a good time can easily be had without alcohol.

I was more than happy to just let this slide, after all my decision to give up alcohol was really for me and my family so the achievement only needs to be for me and them too, but after a cheeky post on my personal Facebook page, I soon realised how many people are actually supportive of my decision.

I never set a date as to when I might drink again. Maybe one day I will chose to drink again, and I have no problem with anyone else drinking either. I just say for me, I’m better off without it.

So if you are thinking about giving up the drink or even cutting back, I can attest to it PN being worth it, heck you can always go back to it. (GEORGE BERRY) F

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FUTURE GENERATION A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY FOR BOYS AND GIRLS Saint Kentigern Boys’ School and Girls’ School are independent Presbyterian primary schools offering the very best in private education to boys and girls in Years 0-8.

The boys’ school campus is on Shore Road and the girls’ school is on Remuera Road.

Our schools are an extension of family life, where the close relationship between our students, their parents and their place of learning is an integral part of being at Saint Kentigern.

GREY LYNN TOY LIBRARY - THE OPEN TOYBOX SATURDAY MORNINGS AT ST COLUMBA CHURCH HALL AT 92 SURREY CRESCENT ARE abuzz with excited children seeking out their 'latest passion' in toys amongst Grey Lynn Toy Library’s treasure trove of delights.

It is a great place to entertain children’s ever-changing need for new things to play with - and it is a fabulous alternative play space during wet weather. Toys are displayed and organised to help little people choose - and choose they do, with over 1000 toys available and a loan allowance of up to four items per Toy Library member per visit.

With timeless Christian values at its heart, at Saint Kentigern you can expect the best education for your son or daughter. Programmes are tailored to the specific needs of both boys and girls, and each student is encouraged in all their endeavours, developing a balance of confidence and humility as cornerstones of their character, forming a solid foundation for life.

There are fun and educational toys available to suit all stages of development - for kids from six months to approximately six years old. The littlest members love the exersaucers and musical instruments and toddlers traditionally make a beeline for the push along and ride-on toys. Older children can let their imaginations run wild with a huge selection of roleplay toys, fancy dress, construction toys, puzzles and games - and there are even party chairs, tables, games and cake tins available for hire at a modest charge.

For our dedicated staff it is important that the students feel the success of academic achievement together with enjoyment of their time with their friends at school. Our exceptional team of teachers, specialists and coaches engage the students in every learning adventure as they explore the boundless opportunities on offer to them.

All items are available on a three-weekly hire cycle. Borrowing toys reduces the need to buy and upgrade and it is a great way to instil lessons in sharing and responsibility - as well as giving locals within the community a chance to meet.

Please take this opportunity to explore the campuses at our August Open Days, to ask questions and see for yourself why Saint Kentigern is a leader among New Zealand independent schools.

During July, new members can join as rostered members for $70 plus a joining fee of $25. Rostered members complete three duties a year, helping the librarian during a session. For those not able to help, there are full subscriptions with no duty required.

Discounts are also available for community services card holders.

To find out more and register now, please visit saintkentigern.com F PN

Hours are 9:30am to 11am every Wednesday and 9:30am to 11:30am on a Saturday.

SAINT KENTIGERN BOYS’ SCHOOL, 82 Shore Road, Remuera, T: 09 520 7682, www.saintkentigern.com

GREY LYNN TOY LIBRARY, St Columba Church Hall, 92 Surrey Crescent, Grey Lynn, E: greylynn.toylibrary@gmail.com, www.greylynntoylibrary.co.nz

SAINT KENTIGERN GIRLS’ SCHOOL, 514 Remuera Road, Remuera, T: 09 520 1400, www.saintkentigern.com

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

FURRY AND FABULOUS ANGELA BEER: PETS & PATS FOUNDER

PETS & PAT’S FARM STAYS AND DAYCARE Welcome to dog Disneyland, a 20 acre farm, 18 minutes from Ponsonby, where your dog can do as much or as little as it likes. Pricing from $40.

FARM STAYS: Limited to eight VIP guests, boutique indoor living, 20 acres for outdoor fun, 24/7 onsite vet.

DAYCARE: Small numbers, 20 acres for outdoor fun, internal spaces to relax, on-site vet, all ages, pick up.

1. How many dogs are in your facility/care?

At Pets & Pats, we look after a small number of families, whereas in larger internal facilities it’s not uncommon to have numbers in the hundreds.

2. What is the staff-to-dog ratio?

Once again, in larger facilities or even with individual walkers taking out dogs, staff numbers can be as low as 1 to 40 dogs. At Pets & Pats we are 1 to 8.

3. What does my dog do when in your care?

I was shocked when looking into founding the farm that many ‘leading’ lodging facilities have dogs in ‘lock down’ in their pens for between 22-23 hours, only letting them out once or twice a day. In internal daycares, ask: how does my dog spend their day, how much space do they have, how many dogs are with them, what variety is offered during the day? What are the qualifications of the staff?

4. What onsite care is available when my dog is boarding with you?

In many facilities, once the kids are put to bed between 5pm - 7am, there is no on-site care. Often kids are housed in a separate facility where they are checked on once during the night.

At Pets & Pats, we have a vet who lives onsite and as the kids live inside our luxury farmhouse, they are with someone 24/7. If you’d like to try the Pets & Pats’ experience, your meet and greet and first session is on us. We look forward to welcoming you.

Dog HQ: Herne Bay; Country Estate: Dairy Flat. M: 021 539 699, angela@petsandpats.com facebook.com/petsandpats

DOGS CHANGE COLOURS Auckland dogs will be changing colours over the coming year. Dogs that were once ginger, copper, Blenheim, liver, mahogany, rust or auburn coloured will soon be known only as 'red'.

Say goodbye to your wheaten, cinnamon or chocolate coloured pooch and hello to the more prosaic 'brown'.

a dog. When a dog is picked up by council officers they will be able to check the database, locate the owner and contact them.

“We’re standardising the colours we use to describe dogs into 11 plain shades, to bring them into line with the National Dog Database run by the Department of Internal Affairs,” says Auckland Council’s Bylaws and Regulatory Committee Chair, Councillor Calum Penrose.

But dog lovers should not be too concerned, says New Zealand Kennel Club President Clyde Rogers.

The National Dog Database holds details of all registered dogs, their owners and any infringements that may have been issued against an owner or person in charge of

“This is just a change on council dog registration forms, the breed standards will not be affected and neither will the way people continue to described their dogs at home or kennel club gatherings,” he says.

Dog owners will see the changes on their dog registration forms in 2016 and 2017.

COLOURS DOGS USED TO BE DESCRIBED AS Ginger, copper, Blenheim, liver, mahogany, rust, bronze, ruby, red, merle, auburn, chestnut Silver, sand, ash, pepper Blue merle Apricot, amber Chocolate, biscuit, wheaten, coffee, cinnamon, brown Cream, champagne, bone, white Seal Brindle Fan, beige, caramel, buff, camel, éclair, oatmeal Yellow, honey, blonde, lemon, gold, straw A coat of three obvious different colours The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

NATIONAL DOG DATABASE COLOUR Red Grey Blue Orange Brown White Black Brindle Tan Gold Tri-colour DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

Brad Parsonson and @Cedricthepug Brad and Cedric have recently moved into Ponsonby from Christchurch and have taken over New Zealand Home Loans Auckland Metro.

The pair report that they are feeling at home, especially with what they describe as the awesome social dog and human behaviour. Brad says, “Ponsonby has been warm and welcoming from all aspects, especially the summer! Cedric and I took advantage of Coromandel and local beaches.”

Cedric was already named when Brad chose him but he has many nicknames: Fred, Frederick, Horse Power, Big Ced, and Big Handsome. Brad tells, “We literally do everything together but one of the most special things was when Cedric learnt to surf (by himself). I couldn’t believe it and he was super stoked!”

Cedric the pug is 8½; his show name or breeder pedigree name/family tree bloodline is...

Dellawood, King Of The Castle!

Cedric is mostly great mates with the humans around Ponsonby but is quite close with the Ponsonby Frenchie @po_frenchieoflittleponsonby and @thenervoussausage and Benson the Boxer.

Brad got him at four months old, “their loss, my gain.” Brad says that eight or so years ago, pugs were few and far between - Cedric was actually the first pug he had ever seen in real life. They rarely came up for sale let alone be seen in the street. Brad took Cedric for a 'test drive' for the weekend and the two have been joined at the hip since.

What does Cedric like to eat? “His fave is the Poutine from The Dairy @ Ponsonby Central.” F PN

HOWLISTIC HELP FOR LOCAL PETS Samantha Jan Jackson runs Howlistic Help, a unique service that provides positive, progressive and natural pet training.

After suffering an injury to her shoulder in 2014, Samantha had to stop working in order to focus on recovery. She started house sitting, moving every 4-5 weeks to look after different homes and pets. In 2015 she founded Howlistic Help.

“I started Howlistic Help because I’ve always loved animals,” she said. “It’s different from other pet training services because I really understand animals and there’s a real connection that can be formed if you know what you’re doing.”

Some of the services Samantha provides at Howlistic Help include training walks, home visits and house and pet sitting. Although most of her clients are horse, dog or cat owners, she is constantly aiming to provide her one-on-one services for other pet species as well.

Samantha has always known she wanted a job working with animals. In 2011 she attended Lincoln University to study a certificate in Advanced Equine where she spent much of her time with a then-gelded wild horse called Ollie.

“Ollie was uncatchable, untouchable and his future wasn’t looking very bright,” she said.

“One teacher mentioned that he would most likely be sold to the local meat works if his behaviour as a domestic horse did not improve.”

But Samantha taught Ollie to feel safe and trained him to become a calm and confident partner, giving him his first riding experience, his first time on a beach and his first time to a pony club.

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“When I remember Ollie, I am reminded to always keep an open mind, to practice patience, to always treat others with respect and to never, ever give up.”

(GEORGE SHIERS) F PN HOWLISTIC HELP, T: 021 147 5330, www.howlisitchelp.com PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PEOPLE + THEIR PETS

ARE YOU THINKING OF ADOPTING A DOG THIS WINTER? Every winter, SPCA Auckland receives many dogs and puppies desperately looking for loving homes to take them in.

Theo

In fact, winter is a busy season for dogs at SPCA Auckland with many dogs being dumped and unwanted litters of puppies being born. Some owners give up their dogs because they want to avoid muddy paws in the house or walks in the rain. However, what these owners might not see are the enormous benefits to having dogs all year round; winter being no exception. Dogs can boost a person’s immune system, help reduce stress levels and release endorphins, as well as provide loyal companionship.

Tula

Cuddling a dog can have a soothing effect and help a person remain calm particularly during times of stress. Their companionship can alleviate feelings of loneliness while also providing an incentive to exercise and become fitter.

Anyone who has ever owned a dog will know that they brighten your mood, motivate you to exercise even on the darkest, coldest days and become part of your family. Dogs are also very good protectors, naturally acting as guardians of your home whether you’re in or out of the house.

Lil Nicky

Adopting a dog can provide many benefits, but owners must be mindful of the responsibility that comes with caring for a dog for the rest of the animal’s life. SPCA Auckland encourages people considering adopting a dog to talk to SPCA staff about the realities of ownership including cost and times commitments. Call SPCA on T: 09 256 7300 or visit their website www.spcaauckland.org.nz if you are thinking about adopting a dog this winter. F PN

Madeleine

Dale The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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LOOK... WHO IS IN THE ZOO!

L to R: Auckland Zoo giraffes, male Zabulu (left) and female Rukiya; Nat Sullivan with six-year-old female giraffe Kiraka

For the love of giraffe Nat Sullivan knows and loves giraffe. The Auckland Zoo Pridelands team leader has worked with these magnificent creatures for 15 years, and she still can’t get enough of them.

In her role, which she describes as “a great privilege”, Nat has witnessed many giraffe births, often late at night. Thanks to today’s technology, she can even keep an eye on pregnant giraffe mums’ progress from home and co-ordinate when her team and vet staff need to be on site.

She’s watched these giraffe grow up, have offspring of their own, and accompanied a fair few of them via ship across the Tasman or around New Zealand to new homes to assist the Australasian regional breeding programme for this species.

Nat’s latest journey was an epic road trip down SH1 transporting young female giraffe Zuri to Wellington Zoo. But she’s about to embark on an even bigger giraffe adventure - in Africa.

What do you love about giraffe? Everything. I love their smell. I love the way they breathe down your neck when you’re standing close to them. I love standing at ground level and looking up at them. As a kid you grow up knowing and learning about giraffe. But when you actually get to work and be this close to them like I am, and you really stop to think about how they’ve evolved with their crazy neck and long legs, you get to appreciate how unlike any other animal they are. They’re extremely weird, but in the best possible way.

Do you have favourites? Yes. Our female Rukiya, who’s nearly 15 - so has been at the zoo almost as long as I have, is my favourite animal in the whole world (don’t tell my dog that!). Why? It’s a long story but she’s got a tonne of personality and at times has been a real challenge to work with which I love; she’s stubborn and things have to be done on ‘Rukiya time’. Though she mellowed in recent years and I think we’ve both learned from and taught each other. Without trying to be dominant she’s become the ‘pied piper’ of our giraffe herd. The others just seem to look to her for guidance and even our other adult female Kiraka will follow her lead.

A favourite giraffe calf? Our nine-month-old male Mtundu is my all-time favourite giraffe calf - to date! He has oozed personality since the day he was born. Exceptionally curious and confident, at just days old, he ventured into places other calves wouldn’t go for a few weeks. He’s been very much like a child growing up with no fear, though that’s starting to change a bit now, although hopefully he’ll continue to keep his easy -going personality.

What have giraffe taught you? Patience, with Rukiya being my greatest teacher.

Tell us about the giraffe conservation work you’re about to do in Africa This month I’m travelling to Namibia to work with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), which our Auckland Zoo Conservation Fund has been supporting for the past four years. We’ll be locating and temporarily capturing wild Namibian giraffe to fit them with

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GPS tracking collars. This is to us help find out more about the behaviour and movement of these desert giraffe - to assist the GCF to better understand the natural ecology and threats facing this population, and to ultimately help inform their future conservation management. This is going to be the most exciting thing I’ll ever do in my life, and I can’t wait!

Why is the Giraffe Conservation Foundation work so important?

Unlike a lot of other megafauna, there’s been very little research carried out on giraffe.

As a result, there’s still so much about these animals that we just don’t know. What GCF has found over the past years is that giraffe numbers in the wild have plummeted by over 35% from threats such as habitat loss and human population growth.

The research GCF is carrying out and the work they are doing is immense - from education with local schools to recent translocations of giraffe within Uganda. They’re the only organisation in the world dedicated to helping secure a future for giraffe, so supporting them is vital.

What other wildlife are hoping to see while in Africa?

Apart from giraffe I’m really looking forward to seeing oryx which is one of the iconic species in Namibia. I’m also hoping to see reptiles such as desert chameleons and palmato geckos. Namibia is such a unique climate that the adaptations of its animals are extraordinary, so I hope to see as many as I can.

Ranger Academy at Auckland Zoo Sat 9 July - Sun 24 July (9.30am - 5pm daily) These July holidays, complete an adventurous selfguided training course through Auckland Zoo’s African savannah to graduate from the Zoo’s Ranger Academy!

There are six great challenges (from fitness and monitoring animal movements to animal identification and poaching prevention) to practice on your training course. These are skills that rangers must possess to help animals in the wild.

Rangers ‘Rae’ and ‘Raf’ will be there to guide you through and give you pointers along the way to help you become an official ranger.

Normal Zoo admission prices apply. Friends of the Zoo, free. www.aucklandzoo.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: METROLAW GOT A LEGAL QUESTION? ASK MICHAEL@METROLAW.CO.NZ Email Michael with your question and include PONSONBY NEWS in the subject line. Michael Hemphill, a partner of the firm, will answer one topical question each month.

Q:

My husband and I separated earlier this year. We are still amicable but we are eager to put a line under our relationship and start afresh. What is the process in regards to legally divorcing and how necessary is a lawyer in regards to dividing up the assets of our relationship? Like I said, we are still on good terms and would like to keep the legal side of proceedings as simple as possible. Thanks, Clare.

A:

Under New Zealand Family Law there is intentional separation between the different aspects of the break-up of a relationship. The end of the marriage relationship is largely separate from relationship property issues and both are separate from issues of custody, access and child support.

What was once called divorce is now called a dissolution of marriage. Either party can make an application to the Family Court for the dissolution of the marriage once you have been separated and living apart for a period of two years. It is also quite common for the parties to make a joint application and in some ways this is easier as you don’t need to get the application formally served on the other party.

Turning to the division of relationship property, I would strongly recommend discussing this with a lawyer. There are a number of good reasons to have this discussion.

If there are minimal assets to be divided, there may be less reason to do a formal separation agreement and if you can reach agreement without going to court it is true that you may both save the expense of a lawyer. But, often people have an over -simplified or plainly wrong understanding of the law in this area and it is worth getting at least some professional advice for peace of mind if nothing else.

In general most people understand that once you have been living with someone either as a de facto or married for more than three years that there is a presumption that the relationship assets are generally to be shared equally. People are less familiar with exactly when that relationship is deemed to have begun, what counts as relationship property and in what circumstances a court might order an unequal division of the relationship property.

If you do decide to have a formal Separation Agreement under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, then both parties need to get independent legal advice on the agreement for the agreement to be binding. I have seen more than one occasion where after an informal division of assets a former partner has come back for another bite at the cherry when they had squandered the amount they received.

(MICHAEL HEMPHILL) F PN Disclaimer - this article is for general information purposes only. If you have a legal problem you should seek advice from a lawyer. Metro Law does not accept any liability other than to its clients and then only when advice is sought on specific matters.

METRO LAW, Level 1, 169A Ponsonby Road, T: 09 929 0800, www.metrolaw.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL AGENCIES

Local agency: The famous Phantom Billstickers The enigmatic Jim Wilson founded Phantom Billstickers, New Zealand's favourite poster and street media company back in 1982, mainly to give musicians, the arts and creative people in New Zealand a voice, and to use posters on walls to put “bums on seats”.

The company is so much more than that though, contributing greatly to the feel of our neighbourhood and sensitively seeding what they like to call “flora for the concrete jungle.”

When I sit with Jim’s vivacious American wife Kelly over coffee at Phantom’s local - the legendary Philippe’s Chocolates - she starts by handing me the 10th edition of the company’s in-house publication: the inspiring quarterly known as The Café Reader. Most definitely not your usual free flyer or zine, it is something of an alternative literary journal and is awash with names both famous and soon-to-be so. It’s about offering you something to read over your coffee; then pick up and take with you. It’s a natural extension for the company devoted to spreading the word about poetry, music, the arts and more, and follows on nicely from their Poems on Posters project that started in 2008 and has seen thousands of poetry posters put up around the world on poles, in cafes and across walls.

Jim has said in the past that printing poems on posters “is largely about hope”, and that the goal of the Poems on Posters Project is to “give poets a hearing and bring a softer voice into the streets.” I personally love seeing

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them pop up regularly around this neighbourhood, and I know I’m not alone. This year Phantom has gone a step farther for the written word, picking up the official sponsorship for National Poetry Day. “Year round we solicit poems from folks,” Kelly explains, “and when we have space we put them up all around New Zealand and overseas. When we were approached to take over the sponsorship of the event it just seemed like the most obvious, organic thing to do. It’s very cool.”

She says that the connection between Phantom and poetry “has been a bit of a non sequitur for some people, but when you see the way that the company has evolved and Jim’s vision, it really makes sense.” He has always been dedicated to getting voices heard - the voices of his artists, the voices of touring artists, the voices of poets both known and unknown - and Kelly says Jim recognises how hard it is to get your voice heard in a country of just over four million people. “It’s hard for an artist to gather a wider audience for their work,” she says, “so if we can help them get heard here or even outside of their own country, that’s what it’s all about.”

As aforementioned, Jim started the business to promote bands he was working with many years ago, and I personally have known numerous musicians who have done their time in the Phantom vans, papering walls at all hours of the night (and early morning). Is that a rite of passage these days for your average Kiwi muso?

“Like a scholarship?” laughs Kelly, before admitting that their choice of employee is a lot more organic than that. “It used to be that musicians were often the only people willing to go and put up posters in the middle of the night under a bridge somewhere, but Jim has spent time negotiating with councils so that we can do that sort of work whenever and there is no longer any stigma attached to it.” Having said that, she adds with even more laughter, “our General Manager played in a band, one of our sales people plays in a band. In fact, everyone who works for Phantom was either in a band or is in one currently... or is leaving Phantom to tour with one!”

As well as his philanthropic work, Jim has also spent a decent amount of time lobbying councils for poster space, and innovations by Phantom in terms of what they can offer clients are always on the increase. Some of the finest examples of this can be seen along the Ponsonby Road strip, and part of this is down to the fact that as well as an artistic bent, Phantom has a commercial backbone in place as well. “If you can’t do the commercial stuff then you can’t do the arts stuff,” says Kelly, who has a background in advertising and most definitely knows her stuff when it comes to marketing and working that commercial angle. They have council contracts in various cities as well, and with elements like specialty lighting and framing being added to the average poster run option, Phantom are most definitely taking the possibly-ordinary and making it a little less so.

May their flora for the concrete jungle flourish - our city central neighbourhood is a lot better looking for it.

PN (HELENE RAVLICH) F

www.0800phantom.co.nz

PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

PONSONBY PROFESSIONALS: LOGAN GRANGER

Key provisional tax legislation to be introduced this August The budget 2016 invests $503 million of new operating funding over the next four years and $354 million of new capital funding for Inland Revenue’s new taxation administration system, along with $187 million for a SME tax package aimed at reducing compliance costs for small businesses.

Small business owners can revel in the proposed changes to overhaul of the provisional tax regime, with the Government aiming to relieve the stress associated with provisional tax as one of its main areas of focus from the recent release of the budget in late May. The package will make paying tax easier and more certain, reduce the burden of interest and penalties, and help small businesses tailor payments to their circumstances.

The overall impacts for business tax from the budget are as follows: • Increasing the current residual income tax limit for use of money interest (UOMI) from $50,000 - $60,000.

• For individuals and non-individuals, meaning that all taxpayers whether they are an individual, company, trust or other entity, who calculate and pay tax using the standard uplift method will not be subject to use of money interest, provided they have residual income below $60,000.

• If you fall outside the $60,000 residual income threshold: • Currently tax payers who use the standard method but exceed the threshold are liable for use of money interest applied to any over or under

payments. This applies from the first instalment date where the amount paid differs from the amount of residual income tax calculated.

• The Government has therefore announced that it will introduce legislation to apply use of money interest only from the last instalment date.

• Related parties have to use the same method of calculating provisional tax within the same income year • This applies to companies in a group of companies, and to companies with shareholders that do not have PAYE deducted from their salary payments.

• If you choose to switch calculation methods, you will be subject to use of money interest from the first instalment date.

• To allow contractors to select their own withholding rate, without needing to make an application to Inland Revenue. This will mean that you no longer have to apply for a special tax code to alter the rate applied to a scheduler payment.

• The Government favours a minimum rate of 10% for resident contractors because it is concerned about the fiscal risks, but welcomes submissions on this issue.

• The Government also favours having a higher minimum rate of 15% for non-resident contractors.

• The ongoing 1% monthly penalty will be scrapped from 1 April 2017 for new debt - although immediate penalties and interest charges for late payments will continue to apply • Businesses that use cloud-based accounting software will be able to pay their provisional tax through their accounting software, rather than having a separate process for their taxes.

The intended date for the legislation to implement this package is August, 2016, with a proposed date of 1 April 2018 for the changes to come into effect.

The Inland Revenue department is currently seeking feedback to assist with advising the Government on its implementation, if you have any concerns or comments regarding the new proposed tax legislation you can lodge PN this online at www.ird.govt.nz. (LOGAN GRANGER) F Disclaimer - While all car has been taken, Johnston Associates Chartered Accountants Ltd and its staff accept no liability for the contents of this article; always see your professional advisor before taking any action that you are unsure about.

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

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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GARDENING WITH GRAHAM SHIEFF This intriguing bromeliad cultivar ‘Beau’ produces strikingly beautiful blooms offering months of colour. Most bromeliads are native to South America and are easy to grow both indoors and outside in a semi-shaded position.

Many bromeliad cultivars sport highly-attractive foliage and colourful flowers. They are easy to propagate by division so what you can do is separate small pups that grow from the base of the mother plant and place them in pots using a potting mix combined with coarse sand.

Bromeliads are ephiphytes so can be attached to ponga trunks or tree trunks to create an interesting focal point in your garden as they develop. Wrap coconut fibre around the roots of your bromeliad adding quality potting mix and slow release fertiliser to offer nutrients. Now you can attach the plant to the host fern or tree using plastic coated wire.

To maintain your bromeliad’s health make certain there’s water pooled in the centre of the plant at all times.

I just love anthuriums, they offer so much in the way of long-lasting, vibrant coloured blooms together with glossy green leaves. Anthuriums are tropical plants so prefer filtered light and a temperature range from 15°C upwards. Ensure your Anthurium doesn’t dry out by watering regularly. I suggest you water once a week during winter and once or twice weekly during spring/summer. Feed with slow-release fertiliser like Osmocote. Anthuriums are native to Colombia. Check out these fabulous plants at your local garden centre or home improvement centre.

Palermo Mezzanote paving slabs are interesting and uniquely beautiful. This concrete paver offers a trendy modern look and can be used to form a paved courtyard, pathway or feature.

Always a popular low growing evergreen shrub the azalea offers so much colour when planted en masse. Azaleas flourish in a shaded garden position and perform admirably when fertilised with flowers of sulphur or acid plant food. Peat moss should be mixed with the soil around the base of the plant to improve the structure of the soil and drainage. Azaleas are showing off their colourful flowers now and will continue to create a magical display well into spring.

My favourite flowering annual is the Iceland poppy (Papaver Nudicaute). For maximum impact, plant Iceland poppies en masse. They’re available in an impressive range of coloured flowers and prefer to grow in an open, sun-drenched garden location. They also grow well in pots. Stunning flowers appear from May to July and being an annual poppies last just one season. To prolong flowering and ensure loads of eye-catching blooms it’s important to ‘dead head’ spent blooms. Fertilise with general garden PN fertiliser. (GRAHAM SHIEFF) F M: 021 997 743, www.gardenhelp.co.nz

Stunning is the best way to describe this hardy evergreen shrub, which grows to around 3m tall and is highly attractive to bees, butterflies and birds due to its beautifully coloured flowers. The Tibouchina 'Blue Moon' thrives in a sunny outdoor location with free-draining soil. It can be successfully grown in a container. If you live in an apartment or have limited garden space, try planting a 'Blue Moon' in an attractive glazed pot and placing it on your deck in a sunny position. Large, deep blue flowers smother the shrub during winter and spring creating an eye-catching display. 'Blue Moon' can be easily managed by trimming its branches back, post flowering.

To jazz up your garden a little, consider adding coastal driftwood, schist or laying Palermo Mezzanote paving slabs. Coastal driftwood adds another dimension to your landscape with the many forms and colours that the weathered wood offers. Driftwood harmonises with crushed shell and succulents to form a stunning seaside theme.

Succulents excel in a hot, sun drenched location with little water and minimum care.

Schist is a coarse - grained metamorphic rock, which consists of layers of different minerals. Flat-shaped schist can be used to form an attractive pathway.

L to R: Coastal driftwood; Palermo paver; schist, Azalea

L to R: Iceland poppy; bromeliad; Tibouchina 'Blue Moon'; anthurium

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PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

NEO DESIGN KITCHENS 1. Classic styling meets modern conveniences in this villa kitchen renovation; 2. Bungalow kitchen renovation looks sharp with black-white palette; 3. Choice of materials adds richness to this elegant kitchen; 4. A well-designed kitchen is a joy to use and adds value to your home.

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NEO DESIGN, 96 Hillside Road, Glenfield, T: 09 443 4461, www.neodesign.co.nz

The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS RECORD METH HAUL HIGHLIGHTS THE NEED FOR P TESTING OF HOUSES The days of getting your mates to check over your property before purchasing are over.

The news this week that police have seized the largest-ever haul of methamphetamine in New Zealand history highlights just how vital drug testing is now pre-property purchase.

“Just as the leaky building problem has made a qualified building inspector essential when looking to buy, the P scourge should make methamphetamine testing mandatory.”

And Harcourts CEO Chris Kennedy is calling for the Government to urgently set in place standards around the methamphetamine testing industry.

A huge 448kg of methamphetamine, with a street value of $494 million, was seized by police in Northland on Sunday, with a further 46kg found buried in bags on Ninety Mile Beach.

“In my investigations I’ve found that the testers and cleaners have differing viewpoints on the severity of contamination and the methods for decontamination. We need some standards put into place to protect consumers and the government needs to take the lead on this.”

Although real estate sales consultants will always make full disclosure if they know drugs have been used at a property, it is unrealistic to expect them to be aware every time.

“There aren’t necessarily any outward signs and we do not advocate that our sales consultants test properties - as this is a highly skilled area that needs to be carried out by specialists.” As the potential purchaser it is your responsibility to commission P testing as due diligence, Kennedy says.

And long gone are the days when you could have a property looked over by a friend with building experience.

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Kennedy says the haul shows how prolific the drug is in New Zealand and certainly there are increasing reports of P contamination in houses.

“The police have done an incredible job, but we all need to work to stop the scourge. We don’t want our sales consultants entering P-contaminated homes and we don’t want them selling P-contaminated homes. Standardised and mandatory testing would be ideal.”

A property where P has been used or manufactured is likely to be contaminated with dangerous chemical residue, which can cause serious health effects.

The long-term effects of the chemicals produced from cooking meth will only be known once the people exposed to them start to experience unusual health problems. However, short term effects include asthma-like symptoms, breathing difficulties, skin rashes, eye irritations, headaches and nausea. F PN

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS

WIRELESS LIGHTING AND SECURITY SYSTEMS BROUGHT TO YOU BY EUROTEC Affordable and expandable home automation and security systems, catering for DIY consumers, are now available in New Zealand.

DIY lighting automation is now even easier with the release of the energy-efficient wireless dimmable LED bulb from Trust Smart Home. This clever bulb has a built-in receiver so there is no need for a separate receiver, whether it be build-in or a plug-in socket switch. With an energy rating of A+ and bulb lifetime of 20,000 hours it will save you money too!

This LED bulb can be wirelessly controlled via all Trust Smart Home wall switches, remote controls and the connected app (in combination with the ICS-2000). As with all Trust products, installation is simple. No additional equipment, dimmers or fixtures are needed. Just screw the bulb into the existing E27 fixture, connect it with your Trust Smart Home transmitter and you can then control the bulb.

Keep an eye on things at home, wherever you are with the Wi-Fi IP camera you can watch and record camera video on your Smartphone/tablet wherever you go. Place the camera anywhere in your home and simply connect it to your Wi-Fi network. Once connected to the app, along with the ICS-2000 Trust Internet Control Station (HUB), you can have peace of mind knowing that you can check in at home while you are away.

The IP camera has a built-in motion detector so when movement is detected you will receive notifications on your Smartphone/tablet. And with high-definition image quality, night vision and wide angle lenses, you have optimal viewing. The IP camera will be available from Eurotec in mid-2016.

For more information, visit the website or Facebook page or phone the team at Eurotec.

We would be happy to discuss your requirements. F PN EUROTEC LTD, Unit C, 750 Great South Road, Penrose, T: 09 579 1990, www.smarthomenz.nz, www.facebook.com/smarthomenz

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MILLY NOLAN: DESIGNER GIFTS

Winter escape Heading away for a cheeky winter escape? A comfortable journey makes all the difference whether travelling by road or air. From impeccably designed luggage and travel bags, to handy notebooks and soft cotton throws, our travel essentials will get you to your destination in style.

1. Coast Italian Leather Luggage Tag, $50 Handmade in New Zealand, this leather luggage tag - available in tan or mocha - will ensure your luggage stands out from the crowd, while also lasting the distance.

2. Izola Laundry Bag - $85 Designed with a vintage naval feel, this laundry bag by New York brand Izola, will keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones for the duration of your holiday - only to be worried about on your return.

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3. House Doctor Matt Thermos - $80 Perfect for a road trip, this stainless steel thermos will keep your drinks either hot or cold depending on your preference, and is big enough to keep the whole family from going thirsty.

4. Antler Juno Medium Roller Case - $330 Travel in style with this British-made suitcase. With four wheels, it’s easy to navigate and its exterior not only looks good but is impact resistant.

5. Kreafunk Amove Wireless Speaker - $250 Wherever your adventures may take you, this wireless speaker should be sure to follow. Boasting good looks and a compact size, it will keep you company while on the move.

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6. Dear Maison Stone Notebook - $37 Just the right size for your handbag, this marble print notebook is the perfect travel companion for jotting down travel notes and the like.

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7. Dear Maison Bon Voyage Clear Travel Pouch - $10 Wave goodbye to flimsy plastic bags and instead safely and conveniently carry your liquid items in this zip-lock pouch while flying. Simple yet stylish, and a generous size also.

8. Jamie Kay Geo Cotton Throw Blanket - $165 Whether used on your journey or at your end destination, this cotton blanket will keep you perfectly warm and comfortable, as well as looking stylish.

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9. Rains Travel Bag - $140 Complete with waterproof zipper, adjustable shoulder strap and spacious main compartment, this impeccably designed travel bag is the perfect accessory for a weekend away.

PN (MILLY NOLAN) F All products available at www.mildredandco.com

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ASK AN ARCHITECT: DANIEL MARSHALL Each month architect Daniel Marshall answers readers’ property related questions.

Q: A:

Why do architecturally designed houses cost more than standard houses?

That is an interesting question, and the common perception might be because architects make the houses ‘more complicated’. However, the reasons for the perceived greater cost are much more subtle and indeed complex.

I always tell clients at the beginning of the process that architecture is the confluence of response to site, brief and budget but as the old joke goes... pick any two. Meaning that if the brief is extensive, and the site is complex and difficult, then the budget or the brief will have to adjust or, of course, one would need to look at another, more straight -forward site.

SITE When an architect is commissioned, the sites are often already challenging as they tend to be sites that have a high level of complexity whether it is because of tricky terrain, or a number of overlays in terms of development controls imposed by the council. This means that a great deal of lateral thought must go into the design to ‘shoe-horn’ the brief onto the site. Conversely, houses that are not architecturally designed, let's just say drawn by a draughtsman for a housing company, tend to be on ‘greenfield’ sites in new subdivisions. These sites have often had considerable expense put into them during the subdivision stage, so they are often levelled for easy construction and services such as stormwater are easy to connect to. This obviously leads to an easier build and more confidence in pricing for the builder as there are no unknowns.

BRIEF When people consider building their dream home, usually they have thought about it a great deal and have a highly specific brief appropriate to their perceived needs. Often superimposed upon this is the consideration of what other people might want should they

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decide to sell the house. This can lead to a lot of functional requirements that may not be necessary for the way specific people might need to live. If a brief is not interrogated through discussions at the beginning of a project, this leads to a house being larger than it might need to be. On a very basic level, the bigger the house, the more it will cost. An architect can help you find solutions where clever use of space can make the floor plan more efficient and therefore ultimately save you money. For example, make a hallway wider and it can double as a study area. Creative thinking that reduces the size of the house will save you money without compromising your functional requirements.

BUDGET Often a potential client will approach an architect with a collection of images of projects they have seen and liked. In a way, these images form part of the brief. Usually the images will portray houses with beautiful materials with large expanses of floor-to-ceiling glass, simple details and hidden services such as blinds and heating systems. The details shown in architectural magazines tend to be very expensive to create. Architects have the skills to provide highly resolved technical solutions to create these details but they are very labour intensive and costly. In a standard house, none of these types of details are used, so the cost of production is lower.

The idea of architecturally designed houses ‘costing more’ is not necessarily true, there are many examples where by working together clients, architects and builders have adapted the brief to achieve an economic result without compromising quality of design or materials. A great example would be some of the housing recently completed by Stevens Lawson Architects and Classic Builders in Hobsonville Point. (DANIEL MARSHALL) DANIEL MARSHALL ARCHITECTS, 472 Karangahape Road, T: 09 354 3587, www.marshall-architect.co.nz

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TO BOOK ADVERTISING: Jo Barrett on 021 324 510 or Angela Martin on 0274 108 320 t: 09 361 3356 or 09 378 8553 e: joannebarrett@xtra.co.nz e: ponsnewsnz@gmail.com w: www.ponsonbynews.co.nz

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS ONE STUNNING-LOOKING 87-YEAR-OLD The Bellevue Lamp is one of the signature pieces from Danish design master Arne Jacobsen.

Slim, statuesque and imbued with a timeless simplicity, the Bellevue Lamp was Jacobsen’s first foray into lighting concepts, mirroring the tubular steel seen in modernist designs that emerged during the Bauhaus era.

As a tribute to Jacobsen, the Bellevue Lamp revisits its roots - with a new production in its original shapes: the floor, table and wall versions. It is all about authenticity, honest materials and the design in its most iconic version. Known for its sleek silhouette and graceful swan neck, the 45-degree cut shade became a prominent element in Jacobsen’s subsequent designs.

“Jacobsen’s Bellevue Lamp reflects the true tenants of form follows function,” explains &tradition Brand Manager Martin Kornbek Hansen. “It captures the essence of elegance, with nothing to add and nothing to take away. My passion for this lamp led to this re -launch of these three versions in their original shapes. Even the swan neck is back in brass, as it was when initially introduced. As design purists at &tradition, it is our way of honouring this pioneer of Danish Modernism.”

Boasting the ability to direct the light without excessive glare, the Bellevue Lamp is ideal for brightening up a dark corner of a room, as a reading lamp or office lamp. What’s more, it bears the name ‘Bellevue’, which marks one of Jacobsen’s earliest architectural accomplishments, encompassing the Bellevue Theatre and Bellevue Petrol Station. Both remain icons to this day. F PN The &tradition collection is being launched mid July exclusively at DAWSON & CO, Parnell showroom, 115 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 476 112, www.dawsonandco.nz

&tradition’s new production of Jacobsen’s Bellevue Lamp

MAKE YOUR HOUSE YOUR HOME Republic Home introduces an abundant and diverse collection of storage and shelving options.

A home reflects the passions and pursuits of the people who live there. Use shelving and storage to introduce personal essence into the home. Republic Home offers creative shelving and storage that is more than simply a practical asset to a house.

Republic Home makes it easy to store the clutter, add interest to the home and entertain guests by arranging interesting objects including plants, magazines, books, photos, toys, files (office), kooky ornaments and treasures from travels.

The options are endless with Republic Home shelving and storage. Their collections are stylish and practical with pieces to sit against the wall, free-stand or even to use as a room divider. Seeing as Republic Home is all about creativity, they suggest using meaningful and random objects on open shelves and hiding the less attractive personal items in drawers and cupboards.

How to make shelving work for you: Consider your decor to decide on the style of the shelf.

What is the theme of this home or office? Industrial, classic, retro, contemporary, French country or shabby chic? Get the industrial look with our Locker Bookshelf with four tiers of shelves and four doors or the Kleo open five-book shelving unit, both manufactured with recycled boat wood shelves and recycled drum metal side and top panels.

Each one of these shelving units is unique, as the colours within the recycled boat wood naturally vary. These pieces are from the Republic Home New York Loft range.

For a modern retro vibe, check out the unique Republic Home Honeycomb shelving unit. For a masculine look, check out the Republic Home Bombay solid wood bookshelf, finished in matte black finish and brass detailing, from a Kiwi designer. For a contemporary look, go for the Republic Home Tama Shelving unit made form solid European oak with a seared stain finish and blackened steel. F PN

For your private viewing contact david@republichome.com or to view the full range images and prices visit www.republichome.com The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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HOME: WHERE THE HEART IS PONSONBY BUILDINGS WIN AWARDS AT 2016 AUCKLAND ARCHITECTURE AWARDS A number of buildings around Ponsonby have won awards at the 2016 Auckland Architecture Awards held at Onehunga Heliport earlier this year.

No less than five buildings from our area won, three from Herne Bay and another two from Grey Lynn, all winning in two sections - the Housing Alterations and Additions Awards and the Housing Awards.

HOUSING ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS AWARDS Salisbury House, Herne Bay, by Godward Guthrie Architecture This project goes to the heart of what may be described as ‘new urban excess’. The traditional villa, revamped as a model for contemporary living, is pushed to the extreme as the architect lays down one slick solution after another to superb effect. This extensive renovation leaves no stone unturned and collates a series of excellent spatial strategies and surprising combinations of volume and surface. The attention to detail and use of traditional materials and techniques is extensive and well-concealed behind a delicate and faithful treatment to the street elevation.

Valley M, Herne Bay, by McKinney + Windeatt Architects Ltd This home is a thoughtfully considered addition to a common villa typology. It talks to domestic history, integrity and clarity all at the same, modern time. The kitchen, pushed into the garden, creates neighbouring privacy to the north while enabling a sensible and pragmatic operation of food storage, preparation, cooking and then cleaning. Sitting in the garden looking back at the additions, it becomes obvious that the architect has spent time with his client-carpenter, with the result being a wonderful environment on a tight site. This is the work of a seriously talented architect.

Herne Bay House Alteration, Herne Bay, by Gerrad Hall Architects There is something beautiful about the simplicity of a cave set against the complexity of the villa. The architect has cleverly played the contrast game with every aspect of

our understanding of modern domesticity with thte weird traditions of the villa. Insitu concrete floors make wonderful ceilings, raw steel pipes make elegant balustrades and industrial roofing becomes sensible cladding. The kitchen sits in a grand space with an ease that justifies the concrete benchtop, while the master bedroom is indeed a real retreat for the parents. The L-shaped addition sits in strong alignment with Professor Toy’s thesis. This is the work of a highly skilled architect.

HOUSING AWARD Maidstone Studio, Grey Lynn, by Bell and Co Architecture and Andrew Kissell The atmosphere of a converted warehouse pervades this new building, a home for two architects and their children. This future-forward, flexible design keeps options open for future habitation - and potentially even a change in typology to retail or hospitality.

Light, from full-height windows or filtered through polycarbonate walls, permeates the interior’s simple and generous spaces and the robust selection of materials - fine black steel, plywood and concrete - is offset by surprising city outlooks and a ‘walled lawn’, a secret garden, sunny and private, that is a haven from the inner city.

E-Type House, Grey Lynn, by RTA Studio This house is thoughtfully scaled and sited to sit comfortably in its Grey Lynn context. The three cedar-clad forms step up the hill, allowing each to access outlooks and sun while creating sheltered north-facing courtyards and sunny garden rooms. The circulation to the south connects and separates the pavilions and provides a gallery for the owners’ art collection. Rising through the house from shared to private spaces, the hallway extends outside at each level, and at each instance the scale of the spaces had been beautifully controlled to provide openness and intimacy. The selection and detailing of materials is consistent, robust and appropriate. (GEORGE SHIERS) F PN

Salisbury House by Godward Guthrie Architecture

Valley M by McKinney Windeatt

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Maidstone Studio by Bell and Co Architecture and Andrew Kissell

PLEASE LIKE US! www.facebook.com/ponsonbynews E-TYPE House by RTA Studio

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HEIDI PADAIN: ENTERTAINMENT IN YOUR GARDEN A black cloud descends upon the flock of tui birds. From a distance this tui looks as though he is wearing a hooded cloak.

His landing isn't the typical dramatic swoop and bounce arrangement that I have come to expect from tui.

This bird knows how to make an entrance. He floats down, settles in the manuka tree, and then proceeds to puff up his feathers so as to appear as large as he possibly can.

The other tui birds are as shocked as I am by the sudden appearance of this huge dominant male. Most of them have dispersed into the surrounding trees, some have vanished altogether. Perhaps they know something I don't. "Am I wise to remain standing on my deck?" I wonder.

Without warning, this tui has come down onto the branch closest to the deck rail. With his wings slightly puffed up, he faces me directly. We simply stare at one another for what seems to be an impossibly long time. He's sitting so close to me. I'm puzzled by this. I don't recall seeing him here before.

It usually takes a while for individual tui to feel comfortable around me.

I'm in awe. Not only is he huge, but he has the mostly striking silver feathers on the top of his head. It looks as though he has a silver Mohawk. I've decided to name him Baron de Silver. The excitement rises up from my stomach, into my chest, then my throat, I can barely breathe. I don't want to move.

The Baron has burst into song. Loud and proud; his sounds are accompanied by dramatic movements. As he flicks his beak up toward the sky, his snow white poi feathers move in and out rhythmically. They look like tiny musical instruments. The inaudible cymbals, softly clang together.

I am truly mesmerised.

I'm not Baron de Silver's only observer. Cat finally comes down from the pohutukawa tree where she's been hiding. She takes up her usual position on the deck rail. Sipping nervously at the half round of orange, she strains her neck up and rapidly turns her head from side to side. It's a jittery awkward movement that I'm familiar with. It distinguishes her from the other tui birds.

Baron de Silver drifts down gracefully from the manuka tree, and sits on the rail on the other side of the orange. Cat looks so tiny next to him. Her poi feathers are thin and wispy in comparison. Her left eye, whilst blind, is a strikingly beautiful pearl globe. I'm

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worried that he will see her affliction as a weakness. "Please don't hurt her", I whisper to myself.

Suddenly there's a dramatic lift off. I'm seeing flashes of iridescent blues, and greens.

They're so fast, I can't tell who's doing the chasing. Their noisy whirring flight is interspersed with short glides. They're doing number eight loops around the trees, in out, and around, in out, and around. I yell out at them, "Stop it, you're making me dizzy down here," and all the while I'm delighting in their acrobatic playfulness. They stop and bounce around like monkeys in the pohutukawa tree. Occasionally they sit facing one another, both singing loudly, before taking off and repeating their orbit of madness. I've lost track of them now. They're too fast for me.

Suddenly it is strangely quiet. Cat resumes her position on the deck rail, and looks at me with her good eye.

Baron de Silver has vanished. "What did you do that for? I rather liked him," I said.

(HEIDI PADAIN) F PN To see some of Heidi’s other photographic work go to www.flickr.com and type Heidi Padain into the search box, or, you can contact Heidi by email hidihi@xtra.co.nz

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GARDENS WITH SOUL ARE IN DEMAND AT SOULSCAPE A GARDEN WITHOUT SOUL IS LIKE A POEM WITHOUT WORDS. THIS IS THE DNA OF Soulscape Design Studios and it underpins their approach to all their residential and commercial projects.

Director, Jeff Poole brings over 25 years of experience to his work and has brought together a team of talented landscape architects and landscapers. He takes a fun approach to his work, but never-the-less one that involves a lot of consultation with the client. “There’s something special that takes place over a cup of tea in the kitchen with books and magazines everywhere, searching for the soul of the new garden," he says.

Regardless of the scale of the work, this is exactly their approach every time.

A successful landscape begins with a good design. Jeff and leading landscape architect, Oraphanh, work as a team to listen to your needs and focus on the elements you consider the most important. Soulscape is a company that prides itself in thinking outside the box. They work hard to create not just gorgeous spaces but also productive gardens and always tailored for your needs. Ora is present at every consultation and she works closely with her clients to interpret their vision and get the most out of their space.

Renovating can be a stressful process and stories abound about renovation disasters. Ora and Jeff know how to make the process smooth so that you can feel relaxed about your changes. “We can help you through all the stages of creating a new space - from the initial design and ideas through to resource consents and build.” Soulscape has the experience and expertise to manage the entire project from design through to completion.

Whether it’s a small residential courtyard, an entire redevelopment or an extensive rural property, Soulscape can transform your landscape into a bespoke piece of landscape architecture. F PN SOULSCAPE, Axis Building, Level 1, 91 St Georges Bay Road, Parnell, T: 0800 02 7685, www.soulscape.biz

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Dominique Parat - Mekong Baby Dominique Parat is a hospitality entrepreneur who - in his own words - “likes to think he has played a small part in the development of an exceptional tradition of fine dining that has seen the emergence of a distinctive New Zealand cuisine, the equal of anywhere in the world.”

Dominique describes himself as a perfectionist who involves himself in every aspect of a restaurant, from design and build through to front of house. “Some may even have found me ‘difficult’ at times,” he says. “I take this opportunity to apologise. I am at heart a Frenchman; this can be problématique on occasion!”

Do you have any children?

Two girls, one working in law, the other in fashion. Neither seem in a hurry to make me a grandfather and I Iove them all the more for that.

Do you have any pets?

A Portuguese Waterdog named ‘Jack’.

How do you keep fit?

I go to the gym, kitesurf, eat well - and Jack takes me for regular walks.

Your best friend would say of you: That I’m a true Frenchman: passionate, opinionated and bloody good company on a night out.

Your mother would say of you: Sadly, she passed away a long time ago. I think she’d say I was a good boy, although I suspect she’d want me to come home a bit more often.

What are your virtues?

I am French, a red wine aficionado, perfectionism.

Your vices?

Most likely good taste - possibly the worst vice ever created.

Who's your ultimate rock icon?

Slash. A pure showman, with genuine talent and longevity.

What’s your secret passion?

Contemporary New Zealand art.

What's your secret talent?

Guitar.

Where do you live?

Herne Bay. Where do you spend your holidays?

Anywhere hot, sunny, with a beach and plenty of wind.

What's your perfect Sunday?

Relaxing at Langs Beach with an espresso, listening to Guns ‘n’ Roses.

What were you going to be when you grew up?

I come from a family of chefs, so food was always going to be a huge part of my life. It’s all I ever wanted to do (besides being a rock icon).

How did you come to be a restaurateur?

I came here over 30 years ago with $100 in my pocket lent to me by a friend in France.

I got work in a bakery in Remuera and not long afterwards bought the place. I was always going to own my restaurant.

If you weren’t a restaurateur you’d be..?

A professional kite surfer.

Which is your favourite Ponsonby cafe?

I have a few favourite places: Dizengoff, Five Loaves, Mary’s. These are all special places, run by special people.

And your favourite Ponsonby restaurant?

I like ParisButter, Janken for clean, fresh Japanese cuisine, and I must acknowledge the grande dame of Ponsonby Road, SPQR for the occasional lunch.

Favourite Ponsonby store?

I can’t decide between Fifth Avenue and Superette or Lululemon.

Please share your best kept Ponsonby secret?

Sentinel Bay, walking Jack. Tranquility in the heart of the city.

What has inspired you recently?

The Auckland Art Fair @ the Cloud. Truly inspirational art, and an incredible array of artists.

Your desert island distractions?

I’d have to say Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’ - such a genius. Movie: I’d say anything by Quentin Tarantino - Jango, Pulp Fiction. TV Show - I’m really liking the look of ‘Feed the Beast’ it’s early days yet, but looking good so far.

The house is on fire and your family is safe - what do you save?

My Michael Parekowhai sculptures - and Jack.

“I'd be lost without”: My automatic espresso machine.

One thing you have learned about life is: Be grateful. Be driven, be focussed on success, be passionate. Be true. Be great at what you do. But always be grateful for what you have.

Your advice to Ponsonby people wanting to eat out?

Revel in what you have in your own neighbourhood. There are so many great restaurants and bars in such close proximity. When you have a great experience tell others about it - remember to thank your waiter or waitress. And leave a tip if your experience has been a good one.

Your advice to young Ponsonby people aspiring to work in the hospitality industry?

If you love people, love food, and enjoy working as part of a tightly knit team in an environment that can be all things from exciting, challenging, rewarding, frustrating, exhilarating and thankless, then hospitality is an awesome career. You’ll forge some enduring friendships - and collect much better stories than you would with the police. If you’re not a ‘people person’ at heart then you should probably look somewhere else. F PN MEKONG BABY, 262 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 360 1113, www.mekongbaby.com

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CHRIS BATCHELOR ON FATHERHOOD, CAREER AND OTHER THINGS How has life changed since Lachlan has come into your world?

It’s definitely an adjustment... I’m an early to bed, early to rise kind of guy so all of that has gone out the window for the time being. Change is great in my mind and I love every part of being a dad so far.

Would you ever consider being a stay-at-home dad?

No, I don’t think that’s for me - I really enjoy working with my clients and being out and about so I would probably miss that side of things. In saying that, coffee groups could easily be changed to beer groups... that would be okay I suppose!

How have you found juggling work with fatherhood?

Fridays are now family day. Being a real estate agent, I work most weekends so it’s about finding that work/life balance. Thankfully I have the flexibility to work from home if need be - although trying to concentrate with a new-born in the house is a little tricky.

What do you attribute to your success in real estate?

Hard work and long hours but it has all been worth it. I am all about the ‘5am club’.

That is the best time of the day. I have many repeat clients, which I think is probably a testament to the work I put in. I really value my clients and genuinely want to achieve the best result I can for them. And like most things, relationships and maintaining them are key - what comes around, goes around. Of course my PA Lydia deserves a mention - she’s a legend!

Do you have a stand-out sale?

I recently sold a property in Dunedin Street, St Marys Bay. It was a cherished family home for 70 years with a lot of fond memories, so it was one of the more emotional sales.

We had an awesome auction with six active bidders and achieved a great result for the vendors. I love the whole process of selling houses, from the initial stage of pitching on the property, all the way through to handing the keys over to the new owners.

If you didn’t have a career in real estate what would you be doing?

Living life jumping from ski season to ski season would be my plan with a bit of sunshine thrown in between seasons - Georgina and I are avid snowboarders and love travelling and exploring together.

What interests do you have outside of real estate?

We get down to the mountain a couple of times a year during the ski season. Queenstown

and Central Lakes area is one of my favourite parts of the world, so we spend quite a bit of time there. I also like to dabble in a bit of golf on a sunny day. My favourite hole is the 19th for sure.

What do you like about working/living in Ponsonby?

Ponsonby/Herne Bay is just a great place to live, I love the vibe and atmosphere that it offers and it is family-orientated which is cool. The majority of our friends live in the area so the dining/cafe options on your doorstep make it super easy to catch up with everyone. And now that Lachlan is here it’s so easy to take him for a stroll from home to the office so Georgina can have a rest.

Chris Batchelor, M: 021 217 7026, chris.batchelor@bayleys.co.nz

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@ CORSO DE FIORI 1. Carla chair A generously proportioned contemporary design, upholstered in unique Zapala fabric. Designed and made in New Zealand $3035 2. Gava ringed stool/side table In Antique Silver, with beaten texture and ringed detailing. 37cm dia x 43cm h $990

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CORSO DE’ FIORI The Foundation, 8 George Street, Newmarket, T: 09 307 9166, www.corso.co.nz

JULY @ FORMA 1. Cobblestone Cross Vase $150 Wood & Marble clock $92; 2. 'Volcanic' ceramic collection hand made in New Zealand for Forma. $95 to $185

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FORMA, 51 - 53 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 368 7694, www.forma.co.nz, www.facebook.com/formafurniturenz

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LOCAL WINS NEW ZEALAND’S TOP MASTER PAINTER AWARD Auckland Company PBF is celebrating success after picking up the top prize at New Zealand’s premier painting awards.

Out of 591 Master Painters in New Zealand, PBF (Paint and Plasterboard Finishing) has been named as ‘NZ Residential Master Painter of the Year.’

It also won the ‘Residential Rework of a Character Home’ category for its painting of a 1940s home in Arney Road, Remuera.

Company owner Arjen Bloem says winning the two awards is hugely satisfying after claiming second place in the ‘Residential Interior Under-$25,000’ category last year.

“We got really excited about coming second and vowed to aim for a first place this year.

To achieve that goal is a real thrill,” Arjen says.

L to R: Steve Hansen from Dulux NZ, Arjen Bloem and Anoushka Bloem and Greg Thomas Chairman of Masterpainters NZ

“However, our objective remains the same - to continue improving our product and maintaining a high level of client satisfaction.”

Arjen says his team of 18 painters and five gib stoppers, strives to produce the highest quality finish by using lots of training and good quality-control systems.

The company takes a long-term approach to its service and strives to deliver a first-rate product. Much of its business is repeat work or comes from the recommendations of happy clients.

“From project manager to apprentices, our whole team is committed to looking after our clients,” Arjen explains.

Apart from taking a few moments to celebrate their award, the team at PBF are back to business as usual. (BEN CHAPMAN SMITH) F PN PBF, Central, T: 09 3602121, Remuera and Bays, T: 09 522 0230, North Shore, T: 09 415 2121, www.pbf.co.nz

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Pam Thomas

FROM NEWMARKET TO LIPSHEIM Kitchen Things Newmarket store manager Pam Thomas, shares her experience at the Gaggenau production house in France.

Nestled in Lipsheim, France, not far from the German border, is one of the production houses for Gaggenau; creators of the very best luxury kitchen appliances for 333 years.

As manager of the Kitchen Things Newmarket store, the first within Auckland to feature a Gaggenau studio kitchen, Pam Thomas was selected to visit the factory to see first-hand how the appliances are crafted.

Pam undertook the tour in April this year, after visiting the EuroCucina exhibition in Milan, a highlight of the calendar year for those with a taste for European appliances.

“With the Newmarket store being the first Kitchen Things showroom in Auckland to feature the fabulous Gaggenau brand, it was very important that I got to experience how the appliances are designed and made, and witness the attention that is given to each and every piece,” Pam says.

“It was such a privilege seeing the appliances being produced with utmost care and precision - so much is hand assembled. The focus is on creating perfection.”

Pam was invited to partake in an age-old tradition in Gaggenau that was established due to the company’s steel manufacturing roots. She created her very own Gaggenau nail, just as a blacksmith would, by moulding it, hitting it down with a mallet and then letting it cool in water.

“I still have the nail at home and it reminds me of how fortunate I was to experience my own moment within the brand’s wonderful history.”

Having been with Kitchen Things for 16 years, Pam is an expert in luxury kitchen appliances. “You get to know your clients so well,” she says. “It is a family focussed organisation and we are passionate about finding the right appliance to suit each individual who comes through our door.”

She is honoured to be offering Gaggenau as an extension of the store’s range, to suit those who are looking for the best.

“Gaggenau allows our clients to achieve their dream kitchens, without compromise.

There is nothing better than that.”

As well as working with consumers, Pam and her team also work closely with architects PN and specifiers to help them create exquisitely designed kitchens for their clients. F To book an appointment with Pam to view the Gaggenau range, please call the Kitchen Things Newmarket store on T: 09 522 8375, www.kitchenthings.co.nz

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For ambitious chefs there are no limits – at least not on this cooktop.

The difference is Gaggenau.

Gaggenau presents the new CX480 induction cooktop that transforms the entire surface into a large cooking zone.

What’s more, 48 micro-inductors below its surface allow you to arrange your cookware as you wish. The intuitive TFT touch display provides optimum convenience and lets you keep settings constant when you’re moving your cookware around.

Staying true to our commitment to constantly redefine the private kitchen through innovative ideas. www.gaggenau.com/nz Available from selected Kitchen Things stores: Newmarket (Auckland) Tauranga · Nelson · Moorhouse (Christchurch) · Dunedin

www.kitchenthings.co.nz

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THE BED PEOPLE - THEY'LL FIND YOUR COMFORT ZONE The Bed People is 100% New Zealand-owned and operated by Bob and Brenda Flanagan. They have exclusive Sleepyhead, Design Mobel and Serta beds and mattresses made in New Zealand factories in Auckland and Christchurch providing jobs for over 400 Kiwis.

“We have a passion for helping people find the best possible beds or mattresses to suit their particular needs and their budget,” says Bob, “We are proud to know that what we are offering are ‘healthy’ beds and mattresses. Ours are totally free of the chemicals that have been known to cause health concerns for some customers. We deliver over 350 beds every month.”

Bob and Brenda started in the bedding retail business in 2007 buying Beds R Us Takapuna on Anzac Street and 12 months later they opened a brand new store in Albany.

From there their business continued to grow and three years later they bought Beds R Us Newmarket located in Crowhurst Street and Beds R Us Wairau Park in Link Drive, Glenfield.

In 2013 they opened Beds R Us Botany at Botany Town Centre in Te Rakau Drive and this is now located at The Hub Botany. Then last year, they opened Bob Beds Manukau at The Supa Centre on Cavendish Drive in Manukau City.

This latest acquisition means they now have seven stores in New Zealand!

This year they undertook a rebrand from Bed R Us to The Bed People and when asked, about the change of name, they say that The Bed People better reflects them and their business.

Bob explains, “It’s about people, both staff and customers.

We are bedding and mattress retail specialists and we employ bedding people who are passionate about offering the very best beds and mattresses that will enhance a better and healthier sleep.

"We are passionate about providing a better ‘no stress’ and ‘no pressure’ buying experience for customers in a relaxing and comfortable environment.”

At The Bed People they have a competent and trusted team who will deliver and set up the new bed and take your old bed away! F PN THE BED PEOPLE, 27 Crowhurst Street, Newmarket, T: 0800 262 723. To find their other store locations go to www.thebedpeople.co.nz

Bob Flanagan

FOUNDRIES DEVELOPMENT - COMING TO LIFE We had a quick visit to the Foundries site this month and progress on the build looks like it’s coming along very nicely.

It’s great to see how big the town houses really are especially the garages in some which look like they’ll easily fit two cars plus a workshop area or some big boys toys for the summer.

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It’s great to see such a nice boutique development come to life and we can’t wait to see the development completed this time next year. Looking at the garaging added to the newly released plans they definitely have saved the best for last. For more information go to www.foundries.co.nz

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@ DESIGN WAREHOUSE 1. Trestle Table and Edge Dining Set - Be inspired to dine outdoors with Design Warehouse’s famous reclaimed teak Trestle table and Edge wicker chairs in black.

2. Noir Chair and Ottoman - Simple, modern and elegant perfectly describes the Noir chair and ottoman by Design Warehouse.

3. Box Concrete Sectional - Create a luxurious and sleek outdoor relaxing space with the Box Concrete Sectional Deep Seating Collection by Design Warehouse.

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DESIGN WAREHOUSE, 137/147 The Strand, Parnell, T: 09 377 7710, www.designwarehouse.co.nz The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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STREET NAMES: THE HISTORICAL BOROUGH OF PONSONBY AND GREY LYNN

Buller Street James Buller was born in 1812 in Cornwall, son of James Fuller, deacon of the Helston Baptist Church.

He grew up absorbing the Christian atmosphere surrounding him but during his adolescent years started attending the local Methodist prayer and penitence meetings.

Friends he had made invited him there to their Class meetings. This prompted a desire to become a lay preacher, taking services from time to time till he realised his calling was to the full time ministry. He preached his trial sermon before the Reverend Walter Lowry who had returned after six years of missionary work in New South Wales and Tonga. He finally left England as a fully fledged Wesleyan missionary, landing in the Hokianga in 1836 where he remained for three years before going to Kaipara, Wellington, Christchurch, and finally serving as superintendent minister in the Thames district.

As soon as he had arrived in Hokianga, he set about mastering the Maori language.

At that time, there was no lexicon for reference so he studied printed translations of church manuals, bible texts and had daily conversations with Maori. Next he compiled a grammar and vocabulary treatise for his own use in order to help his missionary school work. Towards the end of his first year’s time in the Hokianga, he made an attempt to preach in Maori which aroused much interest in his audience who appreciated his efforts and thanked him profusely.

This was a major achievement and of great value to him at the commencement of his long apostleship. He wrote of this later, "At the end of the year I made my first attempt at preaching in Maori. I afterwards found that I had made some ludicrous mistakes."

Nevertheless, by 1837 the Wesleyan District Meeting was congratulating him on his proficiency in the difficult language.

His three years of mission work in the Hokianga were successful. Cannibalism was checked, slavery discouraged, schools erected, and large congregations listened to the preaching of the gospel. In 1839, Buller was moved to a new station called Tangiteroria on the Wairoa river. The Kaipara was very different then from what it is today. Buller’s first recorded impression was. ‘The station, situated upon the banks of a winding stream, is closely environed by sombre, impenetrable forest and a universal gloom prevails.’

He was to spend the next 15 years there as missionary to the Maori. Because the new parish was very extensive, his work involved long absences from home on journeys of up to 120 miles in order to reach settlements, including the new one in Auckland.

Buller soon found that "with savage tribes, the missionary is thrown upon his own resources, not only for the conveniences but sometimes for the necessities of life."

He had to be jack of all trades in order to maintain and extend his mission property; he had to be a trader to obtain certain essential goods; and to the Maori he had to be pastor, evangelist, doctor, magistrate, schoolmaster and counsellor.’ A Dr Morley praised Buller’s achievements: "Tangiteroria, with its excellently laid out orchard and neat, trim outbuildings, soon became an object lesson to the Maoris." At several villages he had built for his own use small cottages so that he could stay several days. In time, a number of villages could boast their own chapels and Church membership by 1843 had risen to 169 on trial, while two hundred and sixty men and women attended Sunday Schools.

But life, especially for Mrs Buller, was lonely. European contact was rare and mail was infrequent. "For more than 15 years", wrote Buller in 1878, "this solitude was my home.

There, nine of my children were born, and two of them buried." For one of the family these years were invaluable. Young Walter became interested in the flora and birdlife of New Zealand and grew up to be one of the most distinguished men of his time, leaving us a remarkable heritage in his famous books about the history of New Zealand birds. When James Buller’s sojourn in the Kaipara ended, he ministered to Wesleyans in many parts of the country and set up church organisations during the West Coast and Coromandel gold rushes. Throughout his life he demonstrated extraordinary stamina and administrative ability but always cherished a deep interest in Maori wellbeing.

In 1876 he retired from active work and paid a visit to England where he stayed for five years, engaged in writing ‘Forty years in New Zealand’ and ‘New Zealand: Past and Present’. He returned in 1881 to reside in Christchurch where rendered services to churches in St Albans. He died of an illness in 1884. (DEIRDRE ROELANTS) F PN

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BIRD OF THE MONTH The New Zealand fairy tern The New Zealand fairy tern weighing in at only 70g, is one of the smallest of our shore or sea birds and is easily in the top five most endangered birds in New Zealand.

Protection of these birds began in 1983 when the Wildlife Service could only account for a handful of breeding pairs. Their risk of extinction has been lowered since the early 1990s by the work of the Department of Conversation and the New Zealand Fairy Tern Trust but it has not been eliminated.

There is still a great risk of extinction for many reasons, and most of the work around fairy terns is on keeping nests protected and ensuring predators are kept away from communities. It is believed that the fairy tern used to be widespread around New Zealand coasts in the 19th Century. They are now limited to a small portion of the Northland Peninsula with breeding sites confined to four sites. Outside of breeding season flocks of terns can be seen over the Kaipara Harbour.

Main predators to the fairy tern include the usual suspects for our bird species - rats, dogs, cats and mustelids. These prey on adults, eggs and chicks, at any time of the year. But one of the main reasons the fairy tern is so endangered is disturbance due to human activities on beaches. Fairy tern nest in small scrapes in shell-covered sand. The nest is normally above the extreme high tide mark but is difficult to see and so is easily disturbed by people’s use of the beach. On top of this, strong winds, storms and some high tides can destroy nests or cause the adult to abandon the nest.

The New Zealand Fairy Tern Trust was formed in 2008 to increase the chances of survival of fairy terns and help them prosper in their habitats. Their main goal is to improve the status of the tern from ‘endangered’ to ‘threatened’ while expanding breeding into some areas of their former range. They are pursuing steps and options to increase the breeding population within the next five years, in conjunction with the Department of Conservation’s Recovery Plan. Since 1983, methods have ensured the survivial of the tern and quadrupled the total population while tripling the breeding population.

Extinction is still on the cards in the next 50 years without your help! The fairy tern breed during spring and summer, just when we like to be at the beach. Their eggs and chicks are very well camouflauged on the beach and easy to step on if you are not aware of them. Some things you can do to be ‘fairy tern safe’: • Stay out of fenced areas and always obey signs • Don’t allow your dogs to roam the beach unleashed • Avoid shelly patches, walk on the bare sand • Follow regulations against fires, vehicles or horses • Remove bait and fish remains that will attract potential predators • Encourage your friends and family to be careful on beaches (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F PN

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FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

Lawrence Arabia - Absolute Truth Lawrence Arabia, the pseudonym of James Milne the art-pop songwriter, has gifted us with a gem of a fourth album. Absolute Truth is released on 8 July, followed by a tour across the country to celebrate.

Known for his deep lyrical work and his ability to write a song with layers that peel away as you listen, Absolute Truth is what we expect from him. This is arguably his strongest offering to date.

Opening with ‘A Lake’, it sets the tone for an album definitely channelling the 1960s or 1970s. The understated guitar solo highlights Milne’s ability to include instrumental indulgence without it appearing as such.

The trumpet and bouncy keyboards of ‘Sweet Dissatisfaction’ provide a backdrop to his disapproving thoughts on modern society or the superficial nature of society. This is a theme we see repeated later in the album, as one of the truths Milne is trying to suggest to his audience - the lack of an engaged society.

“Contemplating your own mortality/ we talked with friends about plans of action/ drastic action/ talk shows, looking for distraction, for some sweet dissatisfaction.”

In many ways, Milne is covering lyrical ground similar to Anthonie Tonnon, using his music as a springboard to get through his own political and societal thoughts. Albeit a bit more subtle, sarcastic and dressed up, Absolute Truth certainly feels like an album you need to listen to carefully.

In ‘Brain Gym’ he sings, “When I was young and arrogant you told me to shut my mouth and get on with it.” Lawrence Arabia is certainly getting on with it now, with his fourth album, this one should catapult him to the world stage. Catchy pop tunes are surrounded by the depth of his lyrics, a talented cast of musicians and arrangements that are tastefully chosen to support or disguise the content of each song.

It feels that the album builds to a point, using the big string section, and soft reprieve or pallet cleanser of ‘O Heathcote’ to guide you into ‘Another Century’.

Second single from the album, ‘Another Century’, is a song that is nostalgia laden, almost sarcastically ABBA. A definite step away from the rest of the album, driven by a moving upbeat bass line and a wall of violin, it suggests a deliberate call back to years gone by.

A disco beat and those soaring strings draws the listener in before we are even given a lyric to attach to. We are made to think though, when Milne does sing,

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“It's impolite to say this is the best summer ever/ Especially not in the presence of farmers/ Who're living through disaster.”

Despite this commentary on global warming, Milne covers this, I’m sure deliberately, with the glitter and charm of glistening water, plenty of ‘shoo-wop’ backing vocals, and twinkling city lights. This is one of his absolute truths, the wash of society ignoring crises, things of importance, in favour of ignorance and bliss.

“Why should we now end this? Just cos the sun's going down/ Just cos the air's getting cooler / I think we're going to be another century.”

At times it feels like it could be a stunning soundtrack to a Bond film - one you eagerly purchase and play on repeat long after the movie has been forgotten. Lawrence Arabia is no stranger to soundtracks, having been invited by the New Zealand International Film Festival in 2015 to breathe new life into a new soundtrack to 1928 classic Lonesome. In collaboration with Carnivorous Plant Society, led by Finn Scholes, they created an exotic instrumental piece, a success for Milne.

A touch of Split Enz resonates throughout the album, especially in the delicately moving ‘I Waste My Time’, which denotes a relationship on thin ice. The cautious progression of the song, a quick moving keys, bass and acoustic guitar tune is broken by an overdriven electric guitar providing the closing notes.

A beautiful electric guitar solo, surrounded by choir-like backing vocals is the highlight of final song ‘What Became of that Angry Young Man’. Is he referring to the boy who got told to shut his mouth and get on with it? Perhaps this is a closing comment on the growth and maturity of someone who admits a few truths, and does more than he PN speaks? (FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT) F Lawrence Arabia’s album Absolute Truth will be available from 8 July from Flying Nun and all good record stores. Catch Lawrence Arabia on Friday 29 July at the Crystal Palace on Mt Eden Road.

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ARTS + CULTURE MARVELLOUS THEATRE GROUP - NEVER TOO OLD TO PLAY! In between buying a brand new sports car, handling daughter Lisa Reihana’s exploding art career and battling with lawyers, structural engineers and property developers over shoddy work on her Grey Lynn apartment, Lesley Reihana keeps a firm hold on the Marvellous Theatre Group.

“We began in 2011 as part of Auckland Theatre Company’s Community Engagement Programme,” she said, “and now we’re based at TAPAC (The Auckland Performing Arts Centre) in Motions Road just opposite the zoo!

“We exist because of the vision and enthusiasm of ATC, and we’re sustained by the huge support of TAPAC and the dedication, enthusiasm and sheer guts of our members.

“There are weekly classes and workshops with top Auckland directors and tutors. We present original work, classical and contemporary pieces, improvisations and anything else we feel like,” she said.

“I am truly excited about our current programme. We’re developing a series of performances based on works by acclaimed Spanish writers, preparing a dramatised version of an original poem, and planning a rehearsed play reading with TAPAC’s Artistic Director, Margaret-Mary Hollins.”

And as if that’s not enough, Lesley is determined to build the group’s membership. “We’d love anyone in the over 60s age-group to come along and check us out. All you have to be is energetic, motivated and eager for a challenge. No prior experience necessary.”

To enquire call Lesley Reihana on T: 09 378 0266 or E: marvelloustheatre@gmail.com www.marvelloustheatre.com www.facebook.com/MarvellousTheatreGroup

DANIEL ANDERSON LAUNCHES AKEAKEAKE.WORLD A new venture by Daniel Anderson, AkeAkeAke.world aims to boost contemporary and traditional Maori art into a global setting.

The focus is on bringing together Maori and Pakeha to collaborate on art, furniture and design. AkeAkeAke.world celebrates New Zealand's diverse culture, honouring the past, reflecting the present and awakening the future.

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1. Jimmy James Kauratoras, Devine mother, Devine father, Devine child, Medium: ink jet Photographic, acrylic paint; 2. Daniel Ormsby, Te Ihi, Medium: acrylic on canvas; 3. Daniel Anderson, No Reo, Carved rimu mask, vintage 1940 British-made New Zealand flag, mirrored eyes, vintage horse nails; 4. Daniel Anderson, Bespoke coffee table, Macrocarpa, hand-carved Maori design, hand-turned legs, 2mm liquid glass finish; 5. Adam Lewando, Chaotic truth, Medium: long exposure photograph.

AKEAKEAKE.WORLD, www.instagram.com/akeakeake.world/ The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied

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ARTS + CULTURE WHORE FILMS SHOWCASING @ CAPITOL CINEMA A lot of people ask Melissa Fergusson why she named her project ‘Whore’.

The reason is that sex workers’ claim that name. Melissa wrote six monologues about street sex workers in late 2013. Three actors each performed two monologues to sellout audiences in Auckland and Wellington in 2014.

“Whore consists of six beautifully structured monologues performed serially by three actors. The text was constructed by Fergusson from extensive interviews with sex workers and it’s exceptional. She has consulted with the New Zealand AIDS Foundation and the New Zealand Prostitutes Collective and the entire show has a sense of authenticity that is at the heart of its success because successful it truly is,” says Lexie Matheson, ONZM. Now adapted to screen, six short films: Illegal Migrant, Married Woman, Underage Sex Worker, Rent Boy, Transgender and Refugee each runs for 12 minutes; based on true stories of street sex workers living in Auckland.

"An emotionally effecting and unflinching series of short films that sets out to reveal the real and human side to people who work under the label of 'sex worker' and achieves this objective with aplomb." - Kathryn Burnett, award-winning screenwriter Melissa is the creative director of charlatan clinic; she has directed over 20 theatre productions, six short films and is writing her first feature film.

Whore Films @ Capitol Cinema, 610 Dominion Road, Balmoral, Auckland on 20 and 21 July at 8pm. F PN

OFFERING A WARM WELCOME TO LAKE HOUSE ARTS If you are looking for a special venue to hold your meetings, training, small conference or product launch, you are invited to consider Lake House Arts.

Impress your clients, indulge your staff, friends and co-workers, and experience the unique setting of their stunning heritage buildings and grounds.

Built entirely of heart kauri in the 1800s, and relocated to Barry’s Point Reserve in 1996 from Takapuna Beach, their vibrant arts centre has been gracefully restored. The stunning gardens, free parking, conveniences, and accessibility to Auckland City make Lake House Arts the ideal venue for hire.

Lake House offers a variety of spaces to suit your needs, including the delightful onsite Cafe which can be hired after hours.

Their Café can cater for your morning/afternoon tea, and lunch.

The Lake House grounds are also available for hire and make the loveliest setting for outdoor functions and activities. Please visit www.lakehousearts.org.nz for more information or email venue@lakehousearts.org.nz to make a booking. F PN

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ARTS + CULTURE PLAYING @ GARNET STATION TINY THEATRE There's something for everyone in the Tiny Theatre, so make a night of it and wine and dine before the show.

Pita Turei’s Matariki Chapter 7 and 9 July, 8pm - $15 Orator, father, builder and dancer, Pita Turei talks the magic that is Tamaki Makaurau.

These cosy candlelit chapters embrace passion, aggression, mysteries and ahua whaea, Mother Nature.

BARE 14 and 15 July, 8pm - $15 Simple Truth Theatre Company presents a play with Unitec grads Brianna Jude and James Corcoran bringing to life 24 characters. Set firmly in 1998, Toa Fraser wrote an extraordinary, convoluted, hilarious and sensitive play that won Best New Play at the Chapman Tripp theatre awards and was the springboard for young comedian Madeleine Sami. Directed by Taylor Griffin and Rhian Firmin Bare is a hilarious matrix of urban poetry and streetwise lip, a set of monologues that rap and riff on body image, graffiti, films, takeaway food, English literature and more. Catch this lively, faithful take on a classic Kiwi comedy before its North Island tour.

If There’s Not Dancing at the Revolution I’m Not Coming EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER 20 and 21 July, 8pm - $25 Julia Croft is brilliant in this self-devised comedic live art piece heavily influenced by the British feminist film theorist, Laura Mulvey, who created the concept 'the male gaze'. The title is a quote from 20th Century Russian anarchist Emma Goldman. A theatrical assault to match the times!

Opposite Ends 30 July, 8pm - $25/$20 A new musical combination guaranteed to get your toes tapping. Come experience a cabaret style Tiny Theatre with Ora Lefebvre on vocals, Kim Gruebner on violin and Graeme Fuller on piano. Divine!

Brianna Jude and James Corcoran in Bare

To book email: garnetstation@gmail.com or call T: 09 360 3397 GARNET STATION TINY THEATRE, 85 Garnet Road, Westmere

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ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING @ TOI ORA GALLERY Toi Matariki Ora Until 15 July, 9am - 4pm

As part of the Matariki Festival, Toi Ora Gallery presents 'Toi Matariki Ora' curated by Don Solomon, their harakeke tutor and Kaumatua.

A selection of work by the Toi Ora harakeke class will be shown in the Toi Ora Gallery. Be intrigued by flax entwined into story telling pieces, using traditional and contemporary designs.

Artist Tina Stirling, Nga Puhi, of the harakeke class, finds inspiration through her ancestors and memories and tells stories of her childhood in rural Northland through her craft. F PN TOI ORA GALLERY, 6 Putiki Street, T: 09 360 4171, info@toiora.org.nz www.toiora.org.nz

Tina Stirling, Nga Puhi - A harakeke design

STUDIO ONE TOI TU MATARIKI EVENTS Studio One Toi Tu is opening the doors for a series of free Matariki events for all ages from 13 to 16 July.

From poetry to potluck, Super 8 to Open Day there is so much to enjoy at your local Ponsonby art centre this winter.

Exhibition: The Seven Stars Of Matariki 30 June - 21 July Seven artists working across seven different disciplines in the celebration of the seven stars. Curated by, Studio One Toi Tu artist-in-residence, Selwyn Vercoe.

Open Nights: Matariki Short Films with Leo Koziol 13 July, 6pm A selection of short films selected by Wairoa Maori Film Festival Director Leo Koziol.

Free event.

Hui: Connector Event 14 July, 6pm The floor is open to your new project ideas. Pitch a project while sharing in kai and creative conversation. Free event - registration required.

Kupu Korero: Live Performance 15 July, 7 - 8.30pm Dominic Hoey, aka Tourettes, brings together a stellar line-up of spoken word artists, poets and musicians in a showcase of new and improvised work. Free to ages 15+.

Mahorahora: Studio One Toi Tu Open Day 16 July, 12 - 4pm Join the Studio One Toi Tu community for a day of creative activities including demonstrations, workshops, music, food, performances, kite making and much, much more. Free for all ages.

Super 8X8X8: Film Challenge 16 July, 8pm A special premiere screening event of the films completed by participants in the Super 8x8x8 Film Challenge. Registration required.

Visit Studio One Toi Tu for more information on how you can get involved with these and other great events this winter. F PN STUDIO ONE TOI TU, 1 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 3221, www.studioone.org.nz

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SHOWING @ WHITESPACE

Vacating and Inhabiting 12 July - 7 August (whitespace is now also open Sundays 11-3pm) Whitespace presents a group exhibition of four extremely collectible young women artists; Hanna Shim, Kerry Ann Lee, Krystie Wade and Erin Forsyth.

Hanna Shim “Contemporary societies are experiencing a new phenomenon, such as husbands in their 40s who spend hours playing video games, young adults who watch cartoons and are obsessed with collecting toys and vinyl figurines. In fact, the postmodernism adult is now characterised by an unprecedented infantilist nature.

I found this figure of infantilism adult or also named as kidult is archetype of an encouraged regression to facilitate the promotion of goods. Especially Japanese consumers are fanatical with cute kitsches. Japanese Neo-Pop artist and follower of Andy Warhol, Takeshi Murakami produces mass production of his artwork into 'cute' stuffed toys.

I have always been attracted to the promotion of desire through cute imagery, objects and language. There is something inherently attractive in the perversities generally associated with cute things and the suspension it evokes when explored as an aesthetic form. People generally see cute as a device to exploit something external to itself, probably because advertising companies try but I'm sure it goes back much further.

'Cute' offered a freedom to evade seriousness or even reality.” F PN WHITESPACE, 12 Crummer Road, T: 09 361 6331, www.whitespace.co.nz

ARTS + CULTURE SHOWING @ OREXART - A JOINT EXHIBITION Richard Adams - Other Views Peter Wichman - Suspect 19 July - 13 August, Opening 19 July, 5.30 - 7.30pm Richard Adams: In 2015 Richard Adams partook in an eight-week ‘working artist’ residency at Winchester College; an independent boarding school for boys situated in Winchester, England. He found the experience very interesting and believes it is a rare opportunity that is available for other artists.

The works to be shown in Adams’ upcoming OREXART exhibition have an obvious link to his time in the United Richard Adams, Other Views, oil & acrylic on paper Kingdom and Europe via his translation of the light. The light in the Northern Hemisphere is not as contrasting as in the Pacific. Adams has employed muted tones and has played down contrast. He feels that when he was in residency at Winchester College, he subconsciously painted with muted contrast being affected by his immediate environment.

In some sense, Adams has continued with what he calls his key lines theme that implies the landscape. He says he has made a shift since his previous body of work rather than making a significant change. Just before making the Winchester College commission work, the artist visited the 2015 Venice Biennale for a week. He drew inspiration from Venetian walls of gorgeous colours and tactile texture - Adams loves surfaces.

Peter Wichman: Wichman’s show Suspect continues his fascination with imagery drawn from literature. His imagination delves into worlds we are never quite sure of, they’re quirky, unsettling or strange, depending how we view them.

Perhaps the ‘Suspect’ in this case is the artist’s intentions, his willingness to commit to paint some part of himself that will come under our scrutiny, maybe even have charges laid against it.

This is painting for the times, troubled, dislocated, and strangely compelling. Wichman has been described as a painter of unease, people have a habit of turning into bugs or birds, their hair spontaneously combusts, hands have blood on them, it is all confusing PN and beautifully bizarre. F Please contact rex@orexart.co.nz for details.

OREXART, 15 Putiki Street, Arch Hill, T: 09 378 0588, www.orexart.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE CHUCK GORDO @ THE FRAME WORKSHOP Originally from America, born in Jersey, raised in the mid-west, Chuck Gordo first came to New Zealand in 1999 and has been a New Zealand citizen since 2007.

“I am self-taught and have exhibited my work in galleries and spaces in Philadelphia and New York (Long Island and Manhattan).

I’ve also exhibited at Auckland’s former Chiaroscuro Gallery, later known as Grant Gallery located on Durham Street.

Over recent years I have been out of public eye while getting seriously creative. Now with my arsenal of offerings, I wish to bare that which resides within to the fine folks of this exceptional city and remarkable country.

“I don’t know if I am an artist but I know I am a composer. I take lines, shapes, colour, surfaces and dallyings. I find inspiration in love, music, culture, society, inner exploration, and more (there’s always more!) and compose.”

Chuck has cleverly extended his range of ‘canvas’ to include industrial stools and skate board decks which, like his works on board, are lacquered to give depth and vibrancy.

So come on in to the gallery and see for yourself just how good Chuck’s work is.

Chuck Gordo is now in The Frame Workshop Gallery with his brilliantly vibrant works available on canvas, mixed media on board and limited-edition works on paper.

DON’T MISS

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THE FRAME WORKSHOP GALLERY, 1/182 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 4749, www.frameworkshop.co.nz

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ARTS + CULTURE

UPTOWN ART SCENE Often revelation comes to us when we are far from the comfortable habits of home.

Kathy Barber’s latest exhibition Yugen at OREXART in Putiki Street extends her calligraphic abstraction into more obscure areas. The title is a Japanese term originating in Noh theatre, where the value of art is to be found in yugen: mystery and depth. Barber’s recent journey to Naoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea renowned for its modern art museums, seems to have nourished her existing calligraphic motif; where previously it contained a clear graphic content, now she attempts to use it to produce a deeper search, where the mark transcends any literal definition to evoke feelings that are too mysterious for words.

Kathy Barbers work installed at OREXART

While Yayoi Kusama’s yellow pumpkin is probably the most iconic image for Naoshima, the overwhelming presence is of kanji script in beautiful flourishes on everything from the moment one arrives in Japan. The opacity of this writing to a Westerner heightens the effect of being “too mysterious for words”, and inspired A suite of Kathy Barber’s tondo artist Brice Marden (b.1938) to develop (circular) works work based on not a gesture, which implies expression, but on a calligraphic mark that alludes to meaning without locking it down with a definition. Barber’s latest exhibition extends her motif into exploring this subtly profound grace of Yugen.

(WILL PAYNT STUDIO ARTS SUPPLIES) F PN

ART ASSOCIATES With a vast collection of contemporary artworks, we make the process of leasing or purchasing art easy and accessible. Contact us to find out more.

37 Scanlan Street, Ponsonby, T: 09 376 4308, www.artassociates.co.nz

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OUT + ABOUT

Raymond McKay and Laura Cibilich of RUN

Gerard Cronin and Lolo Fonua

Megan Rees, Julie Harrison and Jennifer Northover

RUN launch booklet

RUN LAUNCH PARTY @ PONSONBY SOCIAL CLUB - THURSDAY 26 MAY Local advertising and design agency, based in Gundry Street, have renamed from Designstein to RUN to reposition themselves to better reflect their creative offering. Friends, family and colleagues joined Laura Cibilich and Raymond McKay to celebrate the rebrand.

THE NEW ZEALAND DANCE COMPANY The Absurdity of Humanity Q Theatre, 24 - 27 August

photography: Caroline Bindon

The New Zealand Dance Company (NZDC) announces the premiere of The Absurdity of Humanity, it’s most provocative and poetic season yet - for a strictly limited season.

Artistic Director Shona McCullagh couples the striking works of choreographers Ross McCormack (Matter) and Lina Limosani (Whispers from Pandora’s Box) to form a powerful trans-Tasman double bill.

Matter by Ross McCormack (Creative New Zealand’s 2016 Choreographic Fellow) is a long-anticipated theatrical work that contemplates feelings of belonging, love and failure amidst a forest of lonely totems. Created by one of New Zealand’s finest and internationally acclaimed dance artists with an absurdist eye for detail, McCormack says “I am fascinated by people bestowing huge importance and almost mythological or religious cathartic experiences to benign objects”.

Whispers from Pandora’s Box by Australia’s Lina Limosani (2016 Dame Peggy van Pragh Choreographic Award recipient) is a highly theatrical exposition on the dichotomy of good and evil within human nature. With a score created from mashed up film soundtracks and absurdist scores, this black comedy contains Elizabethan-inspired costumes and shockingly timed fight sequences, promising both the macabre and humorous. Kill Bill meets Elizabeth I in this romp of surreal and action-packed pandemonium.

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The Absurdity of Humanity features performer Eddie Elliot, a Manurewa resident. While studying dance at UNITEC Elliot watched a performance by NZDC, which inspired him to approach Shona McCullagh, NZDC’s Artistic Director. “Hello,” he said, “my name is Eddie and one day I’ll be in your company.” His bold statement proved to be a true prediction, as he went on to understudy for NZDC and is now one of their professional dancers. The Absurdity of Humanity also showcases talented dancers; Carl Tolentino, Chris Ofanoa, Chrissy Kokiri, Emily Adams, Katie Rudd, Xin Ji and founding company members Lucy Lynch and Tupua Tigafua.

Tickets on sale now.

Q THEATRE, 305 Queen Street, T: 09 309 9771, www.qtheatre.co.nz PUBLISHED FIRST FRIDAY EACH MONTH (except January)

OUT + ABOUT

Brie Wilson, Anton Cassie - Saben Boutique Manager and Jia Luo

Josie Mckeefry from Review Publishing and Lauren Earl from Glassons Ltd

Kate Clark from Whitegold. and LeeAnn Yare from Collected

Monday Hustles' Lucy O'Connor and Nicole Smith

SABEN X COLLECTED TAKEOVER The first in a line-up of ongoing collaborations with designers and friends, last month saw Collected owner and interior stylist LeeAnn Yare share Saben’s space.

SABEN, 133 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 376 1007, www.saben.co.nz

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HOROSCOPES: MISS PEARL NECLIS

What your stars hold for July ♋

Cancer (the Crab): 22 June - 22 July Doing the same old routine day in and day out might have caught up with you. Maybe it’s about time to change your routine, or simply enjoy each moment for what it is.

♌

Leo (the Lion): 23 July - 21 August Keeping your feelings inside only makes them stronger, venting your frustration occasionally can be good for you. Don’t let any arrogance get in the way of sharing things that matter.

♍ Virgo (the Virgin): 22 August - 23 September

Make sure you’re able to take responsibility for your actions if things don’t go according to plan. You have a support network close to you as always but you shouldn’t make any demands.

♎ Libra (the Scales): 24 September - 23 October

Keeping your opinions firmly in check has always been the right thing to do as far as you’re concerned. However, occasionally you just have to say what’s on your mind and bugger the consequences.

♏

Scorpio (the Scorpion): 24 October - 22 November Don’t lose your rag this month if you can help it, keeping calm and capable is the way you have always been. If being a rock for others is taking its toll, its time it was your turn.

♐ Sagittarius (the Archer): 23 November - 22 December

You really do see the positive in everyone and everything, even though sometimes you get nothing back. It’s important though for you to maintain your sunny disposition as you touch many lives.

♑ Capricorn (the Goat): 23 December - 20 January

Try not to overreact because your ego says you have to, just try and adapt to the situation. You can choose to improve any situation as there are no winners where are egos are concerned.

♒ Aquarius (the Water Carrier): 21 January - 19 February

You would like to hide away from a lot of things that demand your attention this month because none of them focus on any of your own goals. A bit of time alone is good for you as long as it doesn’t become a habit.

♓

Pisces (the Fish): 20 February - 20 March If you have any disagreements with friends or family you will know how draining physically and emotionally they can be. You have to reach a resolution even if you have to be the one extending the olive branch.

♈ Aries (the Ram): 21 March - 20 April

Try not complain too much as eventually you will not be heard and your ideas probably won’t get the attention they deserve. You can still make an impact as long as you’re willing to listen.

♉ Taurus (the Bull): 21 April - 21 May

Your productive juices are flowing this month and you seem to be riding a wave of success personally. Going that extra mile seems to be paying off at last.

♊

Gemini (the Twins): 22 May - 21 June Maybe you need to dig a lot deeper to process any feelings that have been buried in order for you to have a normal life - or that’s how you feel. In order to move ahead you might have to go backwards first.

PONSONBY NEWS OUTLETS FREEMANS BAY

NEWMARKET

Ecostore, 1 Scotland Street Glengarry, Corner Sale and Wellesley Streets Kellands Real Estate, 4 Drake Street New World, Victoria Park

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GREY LYNN Barfoot & Thompson, 533 Great North Road Barkley Manor, 400 - 402 Great North Road Grey Lynn Community Centre, 520 Richmond Road Grey Lynn Community Library, 474 Great North Road Raw Essentials, 401B Richmond Road Ripe, 172 Richmond Road Tapac, 100 Motions Road Vetcare, 408 Great North Road

NORTH SHORE Rug Direct, Wairau Park Dawson’s Furniture, Mairangi Bay

PARNELL Jane Daniels, 2 Birdwood Crescent Parnell Community Centre, 545 Parnell Road

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WESTMERE

Citta Outlet Store, Corner Enfield & Normanby Road Sabato, 57 Normanby Road Studio Italia, 25 Nugent Street

Glengarry, 164 Garnet Road

HERNE BAY Herne Bay Post & Stationers, 240 Jervois Road Five Loaves, 206 Jervois Road Icing on the Cake, 188 Jervois Road Momentum, 182 Jervois Road

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