The Hobson April 17

april 2017

sister squad cooks p parnell's new principal p anzacs local news, views & informed opinions

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C O L L E C T I O N

The April Issue, No. 37 6

23

44

the editor’s letter

the second act

the cinema

8 the columnists

We’re living longer, working longer.

Sandy Burgham on the mindset needed to embrace the “100-Year Life”

From thrillers to documentaries, Caitlin McKenna picks the best of this month’s releases

10

28

45

the village

the principal

The mess in our waterways, Parnell Station opens, a dog’s day out in the Domain, reports from our local civic representatives; and more

Meet Richard George, the new top dog at Parnell District School

Gail Woodward on the joy of discovery in writing for children

32

46

16 the kaitiaki Ae or kāhore to ta moko? Precious Clark likes the idea but perhaps not the reality of wearing a traditional moko kauae

19 the suburbanist The guest speakers at this year’s Planning Institute conference give plenty to think about, says Tommy Honey

the good neighbour Parnell surgeon Jackie Smalldridge’s work with women in Uganda has spun off a coffee fundraiser

the anzacs Remuera Heritage chair Sue Cooper honours the memory of Remuera’s Boucher brothers

38 the magpie

the reps Words from our men in the House, MPs Paul Goldsmith and David Seymour

40

21 the investment

Andrew Dickens makes a very big call for Album of the Year (and it’s only April)

the district diary Dates to note for April

48 the cryptic Our puzzle, by Māyā. Hint: some of the answers are local

the pretty Justine Williams selects new products to add to your beauty regimen this season

Warren Couillault considers the global ramifications if EU members revert to national currencies

41

22

Remuera’s five Hadlow sisters love to cook, sharing their foodie finds with an increasing social following

the plan

the sound

47

36

Wherever you look, dusky, pretty pinks are a big play this season, says The Magpie

20

the bookmark

the appetite

Hamish Firth plumbs new depths in dealing with local bureaucracy

Who's Been a Very Good Boy? Courtesy of Mutt and Whiskers, we are delighted to have three bags of high quality dog treats, chews and accessories to give away to three very good boys, or girls. To win a “Natural & Nice” goodie bag for your furry best friend, email business@thehobson.co.nz with “Mutt” in the subject line by 5pm, Friday April 21. Please include your delivery address, your dog’s name and the breed. The bags come in small (up to 11kg dogs), medium (11-22kg) and large (22kg+) breed selections, and we have one bag of each to give away.

Winners will be selected at random. For more information about the goodie bags, see muttandwhiskers.co.nz The fine print: By entering this competition, you agree to your details being shared with Mutt and Whiskers.

the hobson 4

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issue 37, april 2017 Editor & Publisher Kirsty Cameron editor@thehobson.co.nz Art Direction & Production Stephen Penny design@thehobson.co.nz Advertising Sales Rex Pearce rex@thevalueexchange.co.nz 021 883 891 Writers Kirsty Cameron, Sue Cooper, Victoria Spence, Justine Williams, Fiona Wilson Sub-editor Fiona Wilson Columnists & Contributors This Issue Sandy Burgham, Precious Clark, Pippa Coom, Warren Couillault, Hamish Firth, Paul Goldsmith, Victoria Hadlow, Tommy Honey, Mike Lee, Māyā, Caitlin McKenna, David Seymour, Desley Simpson, Gail Woodward Photographers James Ireland, Stephen Penny Cover Four of the five @HadlowGirls, Remuera’s sister foodies with a social following. From left, Rachel, Claudia, Victoria, Laura (absent is Sydney-based Charlotte).

See “The Appetite,” page 41

HE HOBSON’s only reason for being is to be local, as you’ll have discerned if you’re a regular reader. While our columnists cover a wide range of issues, often global, they are locals writing, for a local audience.

For our feature stories, we follow the same thinking, offering insight into the people, events and issues in our community.

Each section or story in the magazine has an indicator at the top of the page which flags the content: “The Village” “The Suburbanist” “The Second Act” etc. In this issue, we introduce “The Good Neighbour”. The story is about the phenomenal work of Parnell urogynaecologist Jackie Smalldridge. Jackie balances her work in Auckland with volunteering her surgical skills in regions of poverty and great need, and she’s come up with a very palatable model to raise funds for this work.

Read her story on page 34, and please do let me know of other people in our community who would be candidates for “The Good Neighbour”.

There’s a lot of talent, commitment, and community-minded action in this part of town, and we’re keen to share their stories.

Enjoy this issue,

Kirsty Cameron editor@thehobson.co.nz 0275 326 424 Facebook: The Hobson magazine Instagram: TheHobson

THE HOBSON is published 10 times a year by The Hobson Limited, PO Box 37490 Parnell, Auckland 1151. www.thehobson.co.nz F: TheHobsonMagazine I: @TheHobson Ideas, suggestions, advertising inquiries welcome. editor@thehobson.co.nz THE HOBSON is Remuera, Parnell and Ōrākei’s community magazine. We deliver into letterboxes in these neighbourhoods, and copies are also at local libraries, cafes, and at businesses including the Vicky Ave and White Heron dairies, and Paper Plus Parnell. For more about us, visit www.thehobson.co.nz or TheHobsonMagazine on Facebook.

The content of THE HOBSON is copyright. Our words, our pictures.

Don’t steal, and don’t borrow without checking with us first. We aim for accuracy but cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies that do occur. The views of our contributors are their own and not necessarily those of THE HOBSON. We don’t favour unsolicited contributions but do welcome you getting in touch via editor@thehobson.co.nz to discuss ideas.

The Hobson Ltd is a member of the Magazine Publishers Association

There were more than a few people at the mid-March opening of the Parnell Train Station who thought they may never see the day. While far from finished, the station is operational and will serve not only Parnell, but the Carlaw Park, Stanley St and university precincts. Interestingly, it’s also KiwiRail’s station — their Auckland HQ is only a stroll away on Stanley St. We’ll miss the Station as a news topic: in our 37 issues, we’ve covered its will-it-won’t-it progress no less than 13 times.

PS: We’re chuffed about our “bouquet” from eminent media commentator, Gavin Ellis. Dr Ellis gave THE HOBSON warm praise during his March 14 session with Kathryn Ryan on Radio NZ National’s “Nine to Noon.”

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This publication uses environmentally responsible papers

As a recognised community magazine, THE HOBSON may deliver to all letterboxes, except if yours says "Addressed Mail Only" or similiar. Copies can be found at the Remuera and Parnell libraries, and at dairies and cafés in the area. Issues are posted digitally our Facebook page and via issuu.com

“At Auckland Obstetric Centre we understand that pregnancy and childbirth is the most important time of your life and that you and baby should have the highest standard of care.”

– Jane Patten, Clinic Manager

Auckland Obstetric Centre is a unique practice in Parnell made up of six leading specialist obstetricians and support staff. Together we have many years of experience and feel privileged to be able to share in the care of women during their pregnancy.

To find out more about how we can care for you and your baby call our team on 09 3671200 or visit our website www.obstetrics.co.nz.

Lynda Batcheler | Astrid Budden | Eva Hochstein | Katherine McKenzie | Kirstie Peake | Martin Sowter

The Columnists

Left to right from top row:

Sandy Burgham (The Second Act) is a brand strategist and an executive coach with a special interest in midlife change and transformational behaviours. She runs a central Auckland practice. www.playclc.com Precious Clark (The Kaitiaki) is a professional director who sits on several boards, and a young leader of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. A law graduate, she lives in Ōrākei.

Remuera resident Warren Couillault (The Investment) is an executive director and the major shareholder of Hobson Wealth Partners (formerly Macquarie Private Wealth NZ), a private wealth advisory group.

He is a shareholder and director of Generate Investment Management Ltd; and manager of a registered Kiwisaver scheme.

Andrew Dickens (The Sound) is the host of Andrew Dickens’ Sunday Cafe on Sunday morning, from 9am, on Newstalk ZB. He is also the music reviewer on Jack Tame’s Saturday morning show on Newstalk ZB. He grew up in Remuera.

Hamish Firth (The Plan) lives and works in Parnell and is principal of the Mt Hobson Group, a specialist urban planning consultancy. www.mthobsonproperties.co.nz Urban design critic Tommy Honey (The Suburbanist) is a former architect, Remuera resident and Dean of College at Parnell’s Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design.

Caitlin McKenna (The Cinema) of Remuera is passionate about the cinema — she majored in film, sociology and marketing for her conjoint BCom/BA. She works in film.

Judi Paape (The Teacher) is a parent, grandparent and highly-experienced teacher and junior school principal.

A Parnell resident, her column appears bi-monthly.

Justine Williams (The Magpie, The Pretty) is an interiors stylist, writer and fashion editor. The Remuera resident has been the editor of Simply You and Simply You Living.

Gail Woodward (The Bookmark) of Meadowbank is the senior book buyer for Paper Plus Newmarket.

She belongs to, and advises on selections for, a number of book clubs.

the hobson 8

the village

Town & Around

A fine summer's day at the beach at Judges Bay, Parnell. Just don't dive in after a few days of rain, warns Mike Lee. Photograph by Stephen Penny

DON'T COME ON IN, THE WATER'S NOT FINE! Rather than his usual column, this month the Auckland Councillor for the Waitematā & Gulf ward, Mike Lee, shares his views on the alarming state of our sewerage and stormwater system, and the flow-on effect to our local waterways It came as a shock to most Aucklanders when the New Zealand Herald recently revealed the scale of stormwater-driven sewage regularly overflowing into the harbour. The source is mainly from the western side of the CBD (call it greater Ponsonby) but extends inland as far as Mt Eden. It is also coming from Grafton, Newmarket and large parts of Parnell.

These are some of the oldest parts of Auckland, some 16,000 dwellings served by what is called the “Combined Sewerage Area.”

The combined stormwater-sewerage system was built in the early 1900s for a much smaller population. Interestingly, much of this area has been recently “upzoned” for more intensive development under the Unitary Plan. But the sewerage system is now so overloaded that when it rains by as little as 5mm, which it does often in Auckland, it increases the volume in the pipes some 40 times over, washing raw

sewage not only into the western bays but also into the Newmarket Stream and Hobson Bay, and even into picturesque Judges Bay, making swimming and water recreation there unsafe for some days after even moderate rainfall.

The problem is a direct consequence of Auckland’s growth and the failure over many years to provide for adequate wastewater sanitation. It is an inconvenient truth the Auckland Council and the government driving these high-growth policies would rather the public not know about.

The problem first became apparent in the 1970s. By the late ’80s, Auckland City Council began the expensive task of separating the sewer and stormwater pipes. In February 2008, an announcement from Council-owned Metrowater claimed the job would cost $50 million and be completed by 2011. Instead, in 2010, separation of wastewater and stormwater was quietly put on the back-burner.

Critical momentum was lost when the government decided that the top priority for Auckland was a ‘Super City’. Then the focus turned to a “Central Interceptor” originally proposed to convey both sewage and stormwater directly south from Western Springs, via a 13km tunnel, to the Mangere Wastewater Treatment Plant.

In 2012, it was planned that work would begin this year, and take

the hobson 10

10 years to complete. Now the start date has been put back once again to 2019. The Central Interceptor is estimated to cost about $1 billion, and that’s just the start. Ironically, the cost of Super City amalgamation — notably the $1.2 billion that the Council paid for a new (still not working properly) IT system — could have easily paid for the Central Interceptor. All that time, 2.2 million cubic metres per year of diluted sewage has been washing into urban streams and the inner Waitematā harbour, and the problem is getting worse.

This sorry story I guess could be categorised under “sins of omission”. Now we come to the Sins of Commission.

A key objective of the Super City amalgamation, the Unitary Plan, is a major deregulation of planning rules to drive urban growth and intensification. Like the Super City itself, the Unitary Plan was largely government-imposed. And not bothering to wait even for the Unitary Plan, in 2012, Housing Minister Nick Smith pushed through legislation to enable fast-tracked intensified Special Housing Areas (SHAs), suspending the normal RMA notification processes.

Like most Aucklanders, I had assumed that sewerage problems were being taken care of by the experts. Clearly they haven’t been.

However, thanks to the honesty of Watercare’s chief executive Raveen Jaduram, Aucklanders are now learning the sheer scale of the problem — and the real cost of Council’s and the government’s obsession with high growth.

There are over 100 constructed overflow points in the combined system. According to Raveen Jaduram, combined sewerage pipes are so overloaded that these overflow points now discharge on average 52 times a year – just about every time it rains. This is a massive breach of the Council’s own 2014 Network Discharge Consent — but do not expect prosecutions any time soon.

There is now a debate going on between Watercare and the Auckland Council stormwater department (now unfortunately rebranded as “Healthy Waters”) over whether the Central Interceptor would be adequate to deal with the problem (as claimed by Healthy Waters), or whether separation of sewage and stormwater also needs to be completed throughout the Combined Sewerage Area (as maintained by Watercare).

In the meantime, in contrast to Mr Jaduram’s refreshing honesty, Council spokespeople, including Mayor Phil Goff, have been trying to talk the problem down, absurdly attempting to convince the public that extra growth and intensification in the inner city combined sewerage area will not add to harbour pollution.

It’s a pity the problem did not get the present level of public scrutiny one year ago when the Unitary Plan was being bulldozed through. But the lesson is clear — growth, (and the profits of private developers), come at a substantial cost, both to ordinary ratepayers and our environment. — Mike Lee p

THE WAY IT WAS A tidy-up in the storage area of Remuera’s The Print Shop unearthed a cache of lithographs (see following page) by artist Mark Wooller.

The illustration was commissioned in 1993 by the Remuera Business Association. Many business names are still familiar — Antheas, Jack Lum, Gracious Living, Remuera Fisheries, The Meatkeeper and some of the banks are still in the same locations 24 years later, while Hedgerow has moved from the Village Green (then called Victoria Mews) to Remuera Rd. Long gone from the neighbourhood is Milnes department store, and the fashion names are different now — no Cleo, Hugh Wrights, Mark Richard, Julie Anne or Raggedy Anne.

Raggedy Anne founder, Remuera style maven Greta Blair, moved a few doors along to open Collezioni, from which she only retired

the village

last month. The business has new owners, who have renamed it Gabriella.

The prints, on a heavy art paper, are now available for sale at $50, unframed, at Remuera Gallery. p

A PITCH FOR PARNELL’S WALL

Parnell District School has launched a community appeal to raise funds for urgent repairs to its distinctive stone wall.

The stone wall encloses the school grounds on three sides, meeting at the apex of St Stephens Ave and Gladstone Rd. In a letter to local residents, school principal Richard George says that as the wall is only 80 years old, it’s not old “enough” to be eligible for heritage funding or protection.

The Ministry of Education usually only funds basic steel fences but has agreed to partial support for the restoration.

The wall dates to 1933, when the school was built on the site, having outgrown its smaller, steeper location at what is now Fraser Park on Parnell Rd. Built of locally quarried basalt with a concrete capping, parts of the wall are in good repair and other parts are crumbling.

“Our intention is to undertake a sensitive repair programme using reputable stonemasons to return the entire wall to its original condition, so it will last another 100 years,” George says in his letter.

Richard George told THE HOBSON the school’s Board of Trustees had started to call in quotes for the repair of the wall, and to determine the scope of the work.

The school is appealing to the wider community to help, as the parents and friends are already fundraising for playground improvements — the school hopes to replace a grassed area in the junior playground with all-weather turf to avoid muddy, wet children in winter. As a decile 9 school, Ministry funding covers basic operational costs, with any “extras” paid for by the school community.

All donations are eligible for a 33 per cent tax rebate. Donations may be made by EFTPOS or credit card at the school office (48 St Stephens Ave) or by direct payment (reference “Wall”) to the Parnell District School BOT account: 12 3075 0126269 02. Receipts can be requested by emailing adrienneb@parnell.school.nz Richard George is happy to meet with anyone interested in discussing the plans for the wall. He can be contacted on richardg@ parnell.school.nz p See our interview with Richard George, page 28

the village

always under the watchful eye of expert handlers who pick up the dogs and deliver them home. Facebook later fills in the blanks – the muddy feet and sandy bellies are explained in spectacular photos exposing the secret lives of forest wolves and dune hoons.

CityPets was started in 2010 by Flash Hayter, a lifelong lover of animals and experienced rehabber of unwanted dogs. She started walking a pack by herself, but has grown the business into a premium dog-walking enterprise. All handlers have comprehensive outdoor and dog-whispering skills, managing a complex pack structure and identifying where each dog fits in. No group goes out without an analysis of who is going, who gets on with whom, who likes to zoom, who likes to roll, or who prefers their own space.

Details of April’s community walk will be posted on the CityPets Canine Adventures Facebook page. All walkers and dogs will be welcomed with open arms and ear-to-ear grins.

All praise to Dog! — Victoria Spence p A WALK IN THE PARK ŌRĀKEI UPDATES A recent Sunday morning walk around the Auckland Domain featured a lively congregation of humans and canines all cheerfully hollering greetings and instructions at one another.

The walk, organised by CityPets Canine Adventures, raised money and awareness for HURRAH’s Desexy Revolution, which received enough in donations to secure a male neuter for one lucky (unlucky) dog, resulting in at least one less litter of unwanted puppies.

The Domain canines ranged in size and temperament from the tiny yet feisty, to the gigantic yet mellow.

Once the dogs were outfitted with matching bandanas and a compostable poop bag, the entire pack meandered off, taking in bush trails and wide open grassy hillsides. A couple of disabled dogs travelled in style in a covered buggy, managing to be part of the action in spite of weak lungs and seized-up back legs. (Which were the conditions experienced by their handlers after heaving the buggy up steps.)

As well as the charity walks for pets and owners, CityPets Canine Adventures take dogs on pack walks along Auckland’s beaches and forest trails. Dogs exercise and play in a natural pack environment,

The Ōrākei Local Board is mid-consultation on its 2017-18 annual budget. “Given the financial constraints faced, the Board will be concentrating on completing projects already approved within its 2014-2017 Local Board Plan,” says chair Colin Davis. The board will advocate for funding for specific projects, including shared path links it is working on with NZTA and Auckland Transport, which aim to secure feeder links to the Glen Innes-to-Tamaki Drive shared cycling and walking path.

From later next month, the Board will also be seeking community feedback on its upcoming three-year plan.

Davis also says the Board is satisfied its push to keep the Remuera Library open during the Christmas-New Year break was justified (Council had recommended libraries close on the days between the Christmas and New Year public holidays). A total of 2473 visitors used the library; slightly higher than in previous years, although the number of actual check-outs of material were well down.

For more updates on ward activity, see Ōrākei Local Board’s Facebook page or aucklandcouncil.govt.nz p

Meet Angus, a local and the face of Rawhiti Estate.

Why not swing by our information office at 10 Rangitoto Ave for the latest updates on the village.

Call Angus on 09 522 7001 for an appt and he’ll put the kettle on.

Free information pack at www.rawhitiestate.co.nz the hobson 14

WATCH THAT SPACE Curious about the renovations to the former butcher’s shop at the Remuera/ Bassett precinct? A [hungry] little bird told THE HOBSON the space is being prepped for Jess’ Underground Kitchen, which will be of great relief to locals who wish someone else would answer the perennial question, “What are we having for dinner?” Jess Daniell’s healthy, ready-to-heat meals have been keeping Herne Bay happily fed for a few years. The Remuera opening date is yet to be confirmed. p

PARNELL COMES ON LINE

The ribbon was cut by longtime station campaigner, Councillor Mike Lee (above, on left), Waitemata¯ Local Board chair Pippa Coom, Mayor Phil Goff, and Auckland Transport chair, Lester Levy. Above right, Dr Levy and TransportBlog's Patrick Reynolds; left, the historic Newmarket Station building has been moved onsite and is being restored

by KiwiRail.

Parnell Train Station was formally opened last month, 12 years after it was mooted, and a day after limited services commenced. The $12 millon first stage is only partially complete, but platforms, shelters and ticket machines are operational. Once it’s fully under steam, 2000 passengers are expected to use it during weekday mornings. The station serves Parnell and the University of Auckland. p the hobson 15

the kaitiaki

waitematĀ local board

Considering Cultural Reflection

H

anging in a frame on the wall of my parents’ lounge is an image of my ancestor, Te Hira Te Kawau, so exquisitely painted by Gottfried Lindauer. I went and visited the original at the Auckland Art Gallery earlier this year, in what can only be described as an exhibition of mastery, and I was overcome by emotion. I found myself surrounded by ancestors looking proudly Māori, adorned in korowai (cloaks) with faces etched with ta moko (tattoo). I was proud of them, I was proud for them.

As a child, I would often look at that framed picture of Te Hira Te Kawau and think about how handsome he was with his mataora (full facial moko). I would look through books at the women with moko kauae (female chin tattoo) and copy them on paper and indeed my own chin. I have always thought that moko are a beautiful talisman of strength, a link to ancestors.

Late last year, three of my cousins got moko kauae at our marae in Ōrākei. It was a moving day of celebrating their achievements, solidifying family connections with a hint of recognition that we were involved in a renaissance of Māori culture. I was there to support my cousins by helping run the day, making sure people were cared for, fed and everything ran along tickety-boo.

My cousins had asked me if I was ready to join them to get a moko kauae, and it is something I will do, but I need to do some other things first. Everyone who gets a ta moko, particularly on their face, thinks very deeply about the step they are taking and the impact it will have on them and their families. And I’m no different.

You see, I’m fair skinned, with green eyes and brown hair, with a Pakeha name, so my whole life I have enjoyed “white privilege”. I’m not afraid when getting stopped at checkpoints, I expect to get served within a reasonable timeframe at restaurants and shops, and if I was in America, I wouldn’t have a huge fear of being shot unreasonably. And I’m grateful for it.

So, in adorning myself with a moko kauae, I’m coming to terms with what I will be giving up. What the impact of losing my “white privilege” will be. Many women who get moko kauae talk about the things they gain like inherent strength and connection to ancestors.

The question for me, is will they outweigh what I will be voluntarily conceding in terms of the benefits I get from society for being white? I’m not sure, and it’s an ongoing discussion, that I will need to land on at some point. And it may be that I’m comparing apples with oranges.

The point becomes more focused when I think about the work I’m doing through Te Kaa – a training programme that ignites Māori cultural competency.

Te Kaa’s mission is to help 10,000 people positively identify with Māori culture. I’ve made a call that while I’m in the startup phase of this work, I can be more effective if I stay looking like the people I am helping, because it makes it easier to build trust.

So the moko kauae is quietly bubbling away for a little bit longer. I tell you what, it’s a wonderful impetus to grow the work I’m doing with Te Kaa! — Precious Clark

PIPPA COOM

O

n March 13, we celebrated the opening of Parnell Station. Services are limited initially, but the newest railway station on the train network is a significant milestone in the ongoing renaissance of Auckland’s public transport system. The arduous fight to secure the station goes back to 2002 — Councillor Mike Lee documented the history in his column last month.

At the opening, I had the privilege of speaking on behalf of the Waitematā Local Board. It was an opportunity to acknowledge the “founders” — the people who have played a vital role in seeing this project come to fruition. Mike Lee, in particular, deserves recognition for being the driving force.

As chair of the then-Auckland Regional Council, he was also instrumental in saving the former Newmarket Station heritage building, now installed at Parnell Station.

Other people who deserved to feel very proud at the opening included Nick Seymour, who worked for Auckland Transport on the project from 2008 until last September. The early work led by Nick and his team involved preparing the construction of new platforms and station building. That work involved a monumental earthmoving effort, without which the station would not likely have been built. Former Parnell Inc manager Debbie Harkness was a strong supporter from early on, and more recently, manager Cheryl Adamson and the business association have helped keep the focus on Parnell as a destination.

Members of Parnell Community Committee and Parnell Heritage also assisted, in particular, Luke Niue, who worked with Mike Lee to secure the location in the Waipapa valley.

Many people have played instrumental roles on the Parnell Station project, over many years.

I also used my speech to acknowledge the historic site, and the significance to mana whenua and the early settlers of Auckland, who coveted the strategic location and pure waters of Waipapa Stream (historian Carolyn Cameron reported on the significance of the stream in THE HOBSON’s April 2016 issue). After a lot of debate and an assessment of six possible sites, I’m confident that the station is located in the most advantageous position to become one of the top stations on the network. The station will especially come into its own once Summerset builds 600 retirement apartments next door, the connections to Auckland War Memorial Museum and Parnell village are complete, and the path to Carlaw Park, providing a link for university students and Stanley St workers, opens later this year. We can also look forward to the opening of the railway building, once fully restored.

The Waitematā Local Board funded the path connection from the platform through The Domain to Carlaw Park. We’re really pleased to have been able to make a contribution to such a significant project. Next, we’re determined to see the opening of the old Parnell tunnel, to create a unique greenway connection to Newmarket.

— Pippa Coom, chair, Waitematā Local Board

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ONEHUNGA’S NEWEST POCKET NEIGHBOURHOOD

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FABRIC residents enjoy the convenience of living at the heart of Auckland’s isthmus. Walk from FABRIC through villa-lined streets to ONEHUNGA’s vibrant local village or head out along the restored scenic foreshore. With close connection to public transport and motorways, including soon-to-be-completed Waterview Connection and Onehunga Train Station, there’s freedom to travel in any direction. The CBD, Sylvia Park and Auckland Airport are all nearby.

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the councillor

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DESLEY SIMPSON

I

am pleased to have been able to contribute to some positive progress towards the improved accountability and transparency of Auckland Council and the Council-controlled organisations (CCOs), since being elected as your representative. There are six substantive CCOs — Auckland Council Investments, Auckland Transport (AT), Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development (ATEED), Panuku Development Auckland, Regional Facilities Auckland, and Watercare.

CCOs are given a degree of independence from the Council by design, making it easier for them to operate commercially and to dedicate themselves to the task that they are focused on delivering. This freedom has at times created a source of tension due to the public’s expectations of CCOs to be transparent and accountable.

The Accountability and Performance committee, which I am a member of, started the process of reviewing all the legal tools Councillors and the Mayor have to assist in tightening up the accountability and transparency of CCOs. We agreed to strengthen the 12 mechanisms we already use, and introduced five new ones. This will help by increasing CCO transparency, increasing responsiveness, increasing the ability to align CCOs to direction set by Council, and improving recognition of ratepayer funding for CCO activity. I showed my tangible support by seconding the motion that was moved by Mayor Phil Goff.

The Mayor has now sent letters of expectation to all CCO board chairs and CEOs. These letters clearly emphasise the need for CCOs to be accountable to elected representatives, responsive to ratepayers and to transparently reflect their performance. Later this year the CCOs will respond to the Mayor’s letters with Statements of Intent, explaining how they will operate in the coming year. Improving CCO accountability will be an ongoing process.

AT and Panuku have already taken steps to improve the transparency of their organisations. AT has published a list of its contracts, allowing the public to scrutinize them.

Auckland Council itself has been doing this for a number of years, periodically publishing contract lists on the Council website. Panuku has opened some of its board meetings to the public and is publishing the open board papers.

As the nature of much of their work involves negotiating commercial deals, this is not able to be done in all cases.

In my last column, I promised to keep you all up-todate with the works at the intersection of Ngapipi Rd and Tamaki Drive. I am concerned that since gaining resource consent, AT now has data to show the lights will delay travel times for vehicle traffic (something many were concerned about from day one). At the time of writing, AT is working to choose the right contractor for the job and have not confirmed a start date for works. I have been lobbying AT to engage regularly with affected residents.

Desley Simpson is the Councillor for Auckland representing the Ōrākei ward. desley.simpson@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

the suburbanist

Experienced licensed agent and territory owner Karen Moore talks property matters for Mike Pero Real Estate.

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ail to plan, plan to fail. This is why we have planners, why they have an Institute and why it has a conference. This year, unfortunately, it is in Wellington, but fortunately you can read about it here; well, at least about what they are planning.

NZPI’s “Changing Places” conference, will – ambitiously – address the merging relationship between built and natural environments.

But then, ambition is their core business, their stock-in-trade.

They’re flying in the big guns, urban futurist and former Lord Mayor of Adelaide, Stephen Yarwood, and highly respected landscape architect Professor Elizabeth Mossop, Dean of the faculty of Design, Architecture and Building at Sydney’s University of Technology.

What do these interlopers have to tell us and why should we listen?

Well, Professor Mossop’s presentation will focus on “Landscapes of Urban Resilience”, while Yarwood will be addressing “Urban Disruption and Contemporary Change – how the hell do you plan for the unknown?” They may be speaking in Wellington but their topics seem to encapsulate the challenges that Auckland has been facing in recent years, where resilience and the unknown have become strange bedfellows.

“Disruption” lies somewhere between a catchy buzzword heralding new ways of looking at things, and a euphemism for the kind of inconvenient change that we are encouraged to embrace.

If disruption is the monster under your bed then, in addition to driverless cars, you can look forward to artificial intelligence, the shared economy, wearables and climate change. If it’s on Netflix now, it will be here in a matter of years. Are you ready?

Stephen Yarwood says that these emerging technologies could result in a “tsunami of change.” For example, he says, “information obtained from citizens’ smartphones and networked digital devices can be analysed by artificial intelligence software to calculate population growth, street usage and land development”. Which may be what we have all been fearing. It risks making city-wide decisions about these metrics, based on who owns a smartphone and uses these apps; or the corollary, if you don’t have a smartphone (the poor, the elderly, the very young — the usual suspects of disenfranchisement), the future is not for you. Stay in the present!

Which is not to get all Luddite about this (put the pitchfork down now) because there is an inevitability about these changing technologies, much of it welcomed and convenient and lifechanging. But often the promise of technology advancements that can “change spatial patterns and city cores” cast a long dark shadow, in which lurks technology companies playing a leading role in the development of infrastructure, where “data is being used to create urban patterns and systems rather than predict and manage them”.

Elizabeth Mossop’s message is about the key challenge of climate change and resilient cities, particularly the health threat posed by urban heat. “Mitigating the effects of urban heat islands through increased tree canopy and vegetation, for example, is necessary to avoid heat-related public health issues and the economic implications of increased energy use,” she says. Urban heat islands are built-up areas that are significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities, and often experience increased temperature differences of up to 3.7 degrees. This is a welcome acknowledgment of the role that trees can play in our cities and the need to protect and extend vegetation where we can.

While these messages may be difficult to hear, we should be grateful for the New Zealand Planning Institute front-footing them and bringing foreign voices to our shores. Perhaps they might change the way we think – or at least the way we plan. And that has to be better than failing. — Tommy Honey

Property Talk

SO

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Outstanding service and stunning results don’t have to cost the earth when you use Mike Pero’s – Team Moore. Local knowledge, skilled marketing prowess and sophisticated selling systems are why the Mike Pero brand is one of the fastest growing in the country. Talk to Team Moore or call in and see us at 279 Remuera Road, you will love the results!

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All opinions expressed by Karen Moore in this article are solely Karen’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mike Pero Real Estate. You should consider seeking advice from your own financial or investment adviser.

team.moore@mikepero.com • 027 279 5983 279 Remuera Road • 09 524 4393 www.remuera.mikepero.com facebook.com/sellmoorehouses

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Licensed REAA (2008)

the reps

DAVID SEYMOUR

PAUL GOLDSMITH

A

nyone visiting or going past public schools anywhere in Auckland will notice building work going on. Locally, I think of the work underway at Remuera School for new classrooms, and an $8.7 million project approved for Newmarket School. In recent years we’ve seen lovely new classes opened at schools including Parnell District School, fully equipped with ultra-fast broadband and modern equipment. The list goes on in many other schools, often with government funds augmented by generous contributions from the local community.

Giving young people the best possible start to their lives through high-quality education is one of the most important investments we can make as a Government, and as a community. This year, the investment will be at its highest ever – more than $11 billion (without counting tertiary education). Since 2008/9, the Government has increased education funding by 35 per cent, while student numbers have increased by only 3.6 per cent. This, in the context of tight government spending and a return to a budget surplus.

The facts are these: no previous government has made bigger investments in educating Kiwi kids, and no other OECD country spends a higher proportion of its public spending on education than New Zealand does.

Along with the right funding, schools need the right infrastructure. Since 2008/9, our investment in school property has exceeded $5 billion, including around 50 new schools or expansions, over 30 major redevelopments and hundreds of additional classrooms.

Of course, getting the most from our education system is not just about how much we spend – it’s about making sure the system provides Kiwi kids with an education that gives them the opportunity to foot it with the best in the world. It’s also important that appropriate resources are channelled to those who need it the most. This is why we have taken a more student-focused approach to operational funding. Instead of distributing operational grants to every school, the fund is being targeted to schools with students most at risk of underachievement.

Our government owes it to parents, taxpayers and young people to make sure everyone is getting the most out of our education system and – like the rest of the public sector – every school needs to think smarter about how to use their funding. We are very fortunate locally to have school board members and PTA members who so generously give their time and money to help guide that investment, and to demand the best from their principals. I want to take the opportunity, once again, to thank them for their efforts.

The government is prepared to make the investment; together with the school staff and our communities we can and will equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed.

Paul Goldsmith holds three ministerial portfolios, including Tertiary Education, and Science and Innovation. He is a list MP based in Epsom.

C

rime and justice is, quite rightly, a common concern in the Epsom electorate. Almost everyone I talk to on the doorstep has either been burgled or victimised or knows someone who has.

So, it’s good that the government will fund another 880 cops. But we also need to address the revolving-door justice system which sees repeat offenders going in and out of prison.

ACT would target the reoffenders who commit the majority of crimes. In 2010, we passed Three Strikes for Violent Crime, which ensures the worst violent reoffenders are kept behind bars. Then there’s burglary: a premeditated crime that violates the sense of security we all deserve in our homes. ACT’s Three Strikes for Burglary policy would ensure that anyone convicted of a third burglary would receive a minimum three-year prison sentence, with no parole.

So, ACT is tough on crime. But it’s not enough to just be tough. If locking more people up made us safer, the US, with its prison muster of two million people, would be the safest country on Earth. We need to be smart on crime, too.

Prison should be an opportunity for self-improvement. In fact, we should demand this, considering we spend over a billion dollars a year on prisoners. In November, our prison muster hit 10,000. This blowout is a reoffending blowout. A massive 69 per cent of prisoners have served time previously; 48 per cent of prisoners are back inside within four years.

The sad truth is many prisoners simply lack the basic skills needed to lead a productive, normal life outside. It’s this serious: 60 to 70 per cent of prisoners are functionally illiterate. They can’t read an employment contract, a tenancy agreement, or the road code. So it’s no surprise they return to unemployment, crime and eventually, incarceration.

A month ago, I proposed a policy called Rewarding SelfImprovement in Prisons. We would reduce sentences for prisoners who complete basic programmes in literacy, numeracy, and driver licensing. Prisoners could earn time for successfully completing basic qualifications known to improve employability. They could ultimately earn a maximum of six weeks shaved off per year of their sentence.

The programme would not apply to murderers, or the worst violent or sexual reoffenders. And it wouldn’t help whitecollar criminals get diplomas. Those prisoners who are already literate, numerate, and licenced to drive, could earn credits for mentoring other prisoners.

Shorter sentences and less reoffending would save taxpayer money. And it would provide new opportunities for those ready to turn their lives around. But most importantly, it will mean fewer of us become victims of crime.

The response to this proposed policy has been amazing.

We united the Sensible Sentencing Trust with the Howard League in support of the policy. Even Labour and National agreed on it. A strong ACT will ensure the next government is not only tough on crime, but smart about it too.

David Seymour is the MP for Epsom.

the investment

The Eurexit Effects task, and investors would be wary of what this would mean for economies and markets.

The re-introduction of new old currencies would require the official adoption of the “new old” currency within each country.

This would mean adjusting wages, prices and other values to the new old currency. Imagine the difficulty in converting an hourly wage rate of, say, 20 euros to some to-be-determined number of French francs, or repricing a croissant at the boulangerie from 1 euro to . . . ? Markets won’t like that and would be concerned about what happens after implementation. After that, the international value of the currency would be priced by foreign exchange markets.

This new pricing — for example the value of the French franc relative to the lira, the mark, the drachma etc — is not something a central government or two can determine arbitrarily. The relative values are based on many factors including the productive capacity of each national government, interest rates and inflation and the relative risk of depreciation for each currency. The new old currencies would be enormously volatile and trade all over the place for a while as markets factor in country specifics. For example, countries with a lot of indebtedness, i.e Greece, would likely attempt to reduce their real debt essentially by creating inflation.

Her drachma would collapse.

But were the euro to be replaced by various national currencies, as was the case pre-2002, then there would be the return to that wonderful situation where each sovereign government would have the ability to set its own interest rates, rather than these being determined EU-wide by the ECB. For example, the German central bank would control interest rates and the money supply in Germany based on its country’s financial and economic conditions, while the Italian central bank would control them in Italy based on conditions in Italy. I think that would be good!

So some short-term turbulence would likely flow from a breakup of the EU. But over the longer term, the markets could certainly benefit from a once-again growing Europe. If a post-euro world returns the European countries in aggregate back to economic growth, it is very likely that the global economy will benefit. And there’s the rub! — Warren Couillault

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T

he European Union (EU) had a bad 2016 and it doesn’t look too good thus far in 2017. The UK voted to leave (although Scotland may separate and stay), and there’s big trouble at Deutsche Bank and virtually every Italian financial institution.

Greece remains on the brink of economic collapse, and several other countries look to be headed in that direction too. The big issue for the EU might be that its hapless, over-bureaucratic government, and the European Central Bank (ECB), seem somewhat powerless and unable to stimulate growth: not even negative interest rates seem to be helping.

So where’s all this headed and what might it mean? The clearest danger to the EU is further defection: there are exit rumblings, if not full-blown exit movements, in France, Italy and Spain; while Greece has been flirting with or threatening exit for the past few years. A collapsed EU would almost certainly render ineffective and/or untenable the 1995 Schengen Agreement, which allows free movement of people, goods, services and capital within the borders of the bulk of the zone.

That “free movement” lies at the root of the problem that has got the EU to this point so it couldn’t survive a break-up. Such collapse would affect countries inside and outside of the region. Countries inside the Eurozone would need to reimplement border controls and all the other internal regulations previously eliminated. The costs of doing this would spill over into many businesses, especially those involved in or requiring international (but within the Continent) transport or tourism. Likely import tariffs on trade between EU countries would see a decline in international trade and economic growth. What about the impact of all this potential upheaval on the markets and economies?

In the very short term, markets would definitely react negatively because of the certain increase in uncertainty. The EU is a known quantity, even if doesn’t work perfectly, and markets like known quantities and stability. The Number One change would be the reintroduction of all the old currencies that made way for the introduction of the single EU currency, the euro, back in 2002.

Leaving the euro and installing new old currencies like the franc in France and the lira in Italy would be a massive and expensive

the plan

(Don't) HOP To It

A

s many of you know, I shuffle paper for a living, and live in hope every day that the proverbial ace will come up for our clients. We always get there, the difference being the indifference of the bureaucrat at the other end of the application, which extends the time, cost and delays. Google’s top search perfectly defines a bureaucrat as being “an official in a government department, in particular one perceived as being concerned with procedural correctness at the expense of people's needs”.

Dealing with bureaucratic buggerings on a daily basis means my tolerance level for indifference is pretty high. Council officers creating something out of nothing, taking forever to respond, or just going on extended leave of all description, are all the norm. You become so used to it, that you almost forget there are some great Council officers who deliver.

Where is all this leading? The following is a true story. And it has left me stunned. Allow me to fill you in, in part as therapy for my soul, and in part for you to splutter in disbelief over your coffee.

Our slightly-oversized (blame me) middle child started school at the beginning of February. She turned five in mid-March, but her school takes new entrants at the beginning of the term. So she has been aged four for over a month at school, splendid in her tartan uniform with a school bag weighing down her every step. She has taken to it like a duck to water.

On occasions she has been catching the Outer Link bus to and from school — she does this with her older sister and our neighbour’s daughters. Here is where the trouble starts.

We purchased her an AT HOP card and loaded it with credit.

We completed the online registration and away we went. We were aware that children under five were free on the bus, but thought that getting the HOP card would help when she turned five.

The first few times she caught the bus, the driver did not believe that our child in her school uniform was not yet five-years-old.

We did not want to cause a scene and could understand that a bus driver might think she is five – she has a uniform and a bag. So as not to cause an argument, we told her to use her HOP card. We soon discovered she was being charged the adult rate each time, so we went on the AT website and chatted with someone who told us the

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bus driver MUST accept she is not five. We explained that we had tried that, but the driver didn’t believe us (we didn’t expect them to).

We were told under-fives cannot use a HOP card. I explained they can, as the card clearly works on the bus. In the end, the online help decided we were a Level 2 problem, and we were asked to ring the 0800 number. This led to 48 minutes on the phone with a call centre operator, and then to her supervisor. Here is what they offered as practical advice for a free fare (even though I never wanted it free).

“Dress your daughter in mufti and then when she gets to school she can change into uniform and then do the same when she leaves school”.

I kid you not. The supervisor reinforced that she thought this was a practical solution for a four-year-old. I used a few choice words, decided we need more immigration to raise the gene pool, and that maybe some people just need to be unemployed. The parting advice from the call centre was that I could apply online for a refund.

Taking my chances, I clicked on the “ask for a refund button” and gave my reason why. The reply came back a week later and noted: “You contacted us about being charged adult fares on the HOP card. Children under 5 years of age travel free accompanied by a fare paying passenger and they do not require an AT HOP card. . . . Unfortunately we are unable to provide a refund in relation to the adult fares that you have been charged. We apologise that this is not the outcome you were looking for. For HOP cards that have been registered using the correct date of birth, the child profile will automatically go onto the card from the child’s 5th birthday.”

At this point, I lost the will to live or at least pursue this any further. I can though, muster the following thoughts.

In this age of computer technology, why can’t a HOP card register under-fives as being free when the card is swiped? Why would an under-five who used the HOP card — registered to her and her date of birth — default to an adult fare? More importantly, why do we have an organisation, funded by rates, that does not have anyone with any brains to actually see an issue and then make changes, instead of regurgitating “computer says no”?

I’ll just go back to shuffling paper.

— Hamish Firth

the second act

Working Towards the 100-Year Life

W

hen I was heading toward 50 I decided to live by a beautiful mantra penned by poet and essayist Diane Ackerman. “I don’t want to live the length of my life but the breadth of my life as well”.

It has served me well over the past handful of years as I have skied more off-piste than in previous, completely career-focused decades, and embraced a far richer and fuller life featuring a lot more study, personal and professional development, and adventure. It was the driving reason why I loved the idea of writing a column dubbed “The Second Act” — reflections on how we might live in the second half of life. Our second act is the chance to reinvent, focus and really live life like we were meaning to after the flurry of the first act.

Things were going swimmingly well until I was recently recommended a new best-seller to read, The 100-Year Life: Living and Working in an Age of Longevity by Lynda Gratton and William Bell Scott. It’s all very well living like there’s no tomorrow as indeed this could be the case, but then again one might, at 50, also have another 45 years of life to fund.

Hmmmm.

Because of advances in science, life expectancies are rising by two to three years a decade. It’s been happening at the same rate over the past two centuries and it has a radical impact on how we must view the idea of life and work. Who knew longevity would present such a financial burden?

Authors Gratton and Scott are two professors from the London Business School whose combined work encourages us all to make intelligent choices now so that increased life expectancy is a gift not a curse. For them, there are not just two acts to consider, nor even the three-stage life of education, career, then retirement, but perhaps four, five or even six acts to really get ready for if one is to embrace the possibility of longevity.

I am fortunate that I have reinvented careers around four times, which is probably a reason why part of my work portfolio includes helping mid-lifers reinvent themselves. Most

mid-lifer parents have already cottoned on to the fact that their children may be working in jobs that have not yet been invented, but have not yet grasped that this might even apply to them as well. They have spent years developing skill sets, when it’s mindset that will future-proof their capacity to earn. The new frameworks for thinking about work are lateral not linear, lattices not ladders. Apart from a healthy curiosity, the ability to adapt to change will be a critical attribute for the workforce, as will creativity, a human factor that is unable to be replicated by a robot.

And to ensure the wisdom one gains with maturity is actually relevant to the world, it is essential to keep learning and developing, which is why continuing education is a growing trend. Keep that mind open!

My career shifts have never been by linear design or followed a carefully constructed path, but have happened by simply following my interests. Those interests either developed over time or became too urgent to ignore. One of those callings was to finally indulge, through part-time university study, my deep interest in gender constructs. While some have commented that being a part-time student is at the expense of my “career”, I see it differently. Aside from the deep sense of fulfillment, it is also a long-term work investment, as I am already applying my learning to my day job in leadership coaching.

It keeps me curious and stretches my mind far more than doing a daily crossword, and ensures I am active in a vibrant, intergenerational community.

As Mahatma Gandhi reportedly declared, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow, learn as if you were to live forever”.

— Sandy Burgham

The 100-Year Life: Living and Working in an Age of Longevity

by Lynda Gratton and William Bell Scott is published by Bloomsbury. See 100yearlife.com for further information

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Bayleys Real Estate Limited, Licensed under the REA Act 2008

Simply Matching Pe

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One of Remuera’s Most Beautiful Homes

Set in total privacy, with all day sun, 4 Burwood is the perfect ‘next’ home designed to be the natural backdrop for outstanding furniture, art and objects.

From the road you have little idea of the environment you are about to enter.

Open the front door and you are in another world. You could be forgiven for thinking you had walked into an international decor and garden magazine ‘story’.

The photos take you on a visual tour of the house. To understand the true feeling you need to visit. A practical description is 613m² of land and 273m² of home. The floor plan on our website details the rooms and their proportions.

A ‘bespoke’ home that would be appreciated anywhere in the world.

For Sale 4 Burwood Crescent, Remuera

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Terry King 021 484 332 terry.king@remueraregister.co.nz

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Remuera Real Estate Register

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Little need for expensive marketing campaigns

We sell the majority of properties within the first week of listing. This is often the result of having the ‘right’ buyer already on our Register - so there is little need for open homes or marketing campaigns, or public exposure except to our Register. The majority of sales have been to local buyers; the majority of sales have been for record prices in their respective areas and across the spectrum of price categories.

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the hobson + remuera

A Very Hoppy Easter From charming gifts to the best edible treats, Remuera marks Easter in style

An egg to keep and treasure. Remuera Gallery’s collectable artisan-created eggs come in a variety of finishes including glass (above left) and tin (right).

From $60 each, at Remuera Gallery, 360 Remuera Rd. Ph 524 7403, www.remuera-gallery.com

Especially for Easter at Colestown, the medium chocolate egg ($9.90) in dark, milk or white chocolate, is naturally coloured, beautifully boxed and contains an extra treat. The large Easter Bunny ($22.50) is also available in dark, milk and white. He bears special treats too, and is wrapped in cellophane so both giver and receiver can enjoy how cute he is! Colestown, 405 Remuera Rd. Ph 520 5070, www.colestownchocolates.co.nz

Hedgerow is a trove of themed Easter gifts, such as this MeriMeri kit for egg hunts ($40.50). It includes stakes and signs for the garden, and special novelties. Hedgerow, 371 Remuera Rd. Ph 524 0843, www.hedgerow.co.nz

This gorgeous, snuggly cotton throw in soft grey with white bunnies is perfect for Easter and the chilly evenings ahead. Available from The Sitting Room, it measures 170 x 150cm and is $190. The Sitting Room, the Village Green, 415 Remuera Rd. Ph 520 2200

This cuddly chap is Bashful Bunny, and he and his friends are waiting for their new owners at Hedgerow. Available in cream and beige, there are four sizes, starting at $35.20.

Hedgerow, 371 Remuera Rd. Ph 524 0843, www.hedgerow.co.nz

Relax into the long weekend with live music from the Gypsy Band, special guests at Artusi Cucina in the Village Green. The band will play on Good Friday (April 14) and Easter Saturday, from 7pm. Artusi Cucina, the Village Green, 415 Remuera Rd. Ph 522 9196, www.artusicucina.co.nz

It’s not Easter without hot cross buns — the spiced, sweet bun traditionally eaten on Good Friday (but delicious any day of the week). Alongside the traditional bun, Bakers Delight Remuera has introduced apple and cinnamon hot cross buns. The best-seller?

Chocolate hot cross buns. Six-packs are $9 or two for $15, single buns $1.80. From Bakers Delight Remuera, 1 Victoria Ave. Ph 524 5760

the hobson 26

live life local

A Sweet Sensation Sally Meikle’s Colestown chocolate boutique is a moreish addition to the Remuera shopping centre

T

he team at Colestown have Easter wrapped up. Their shelves are lined with a gorgeous array of bunnies, chickens and eggs, and all looking good enough to, well, eat!

Sally, has chocolate always been your thing?

I originally trained as a chef, but working for a private caterer in London, I was introduced to the luxury of Belgian couverture. I decided then and there that I would one day have a chocolate business of my own.

What exactly is couverture?

It’s a very high quality chocolate, with a high gloss. It’s made with a higher percentage of cocoa butter than usual, and no other fat or oil.

Was there training involved to become a chocolatier?

Yes, even though I had done my chef training in London, I did more specific chocolate training at the Savour school in Melbourne. From there it was just practice, practice, practice!

Is the family involved in the business?

I started it from home with my husband, Tim, in 2006, when our three daughters, Millie, Issy and Sophia, were preschoolers. Now the girls are teenagers, they get involved when we get busy at our chocolate kitchen in Mt Albert.

Tim works fulltime outside of Colestown, but he helps at weekends with the paperwork.

What inspired the name Colestown?

It’s the name of the street we lived on when I discovered my passion for good chocolate — 18 Colestown St, Battersea,

SW11. We have a picture of the street sign behind the till.

How do you come up with new flavours?

I read a lot, we have seasonal flavours and I also experiment — I’m always looking for inspiration for flavour combinations.

I have a test panel in my daughters. They’ve grown up eating Colestown chocolates, and have very strong views.

What's the most popular chocolate, and the most unusual?

The most popular would be our salted caramel, and at Easter, our large bunny. He’s a gorgeous chocolate bunny wearing overalls. The most unusual would be Mexicana, definitely.

It’s a dark chocolate and chilli base, layered with a mango and white chocolate ganache, enrobed in dark chocolate and finished with a sprinkle of chilli lime salt. It’s intriguing!

Are there occasions when chocolate is a popular gift?

Yes, absolutely. Easter of course, then Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween, Christmas. For each of those occasions we introduce chocolates specific to the event. For example, we have a whisky ganache for Father’s Day, and marzipan bars and gingerbread ranges for the festive season.

What a job, surrounded by fabulous chocolates all day!

Ha! I don’t find it too hard — I eat chocolate every day, sampling every batch we make. I never tire of it.

SPECIAL READER OFFER FOR APRIL MAKE A PURCHASE AT COLESTOWN IN APRIL AND GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN A LARGE BOX OF CHOCOLATES AND SNACK BAR TREATS

Sally Meikle in her Colestown chocolate shop, 405 Remuera Rd. Photo Vanita Andrews, interview Fiona Wilson.

To read more about Sally and her business, see www.remuera.org.nz the hobson 27

the good neighbour

the hobson 28

Top Dog at School New principal Richard George brings a passion for student achievement, much enthusiasm and his shaggy best friend to Parnell District School. He spoke to Kirsty Cameron

T

he doorway to the principal’s office at Parnell District School is barred by a childproof gate.

It’s not to keep free-ranging students out of the headmaster’s sanctuary. The gate is to keep eightmonth-old Chester in. The chocolate labradoodle puppy is both principal Richard George’s pet, and a reading buddy.

George is indeed welcoming to children wanting to visit his office, even though it’s Chester they may really want to see. Chester loves being read to, George says, and is very generous with stickers given out for good work. There is some science here — Chester was bred as a service dog, and two of his littermates have gone to Hawaii to work in rehabilitation care.

George explains that children who struggle with reading find it helpful to have a calm dog to whom they can read aloud.

Richard George started at Parnell District School in Term 4, appointed by the school’s Board of Trustees following the retirement of Gary Cain. Parnell, the treeringed school with the low stone walls at the apex of St Stephens and Gladstone roads, is a decile 9 full primary, with classes from new entrant to intermediate (Years 7 and 8). It has a current roll of 481 students, and 30 new entrants on the way during the year. Half of the roll identifies as NZ European, 12 per cent Asian, the balance drawn from all over the globe, reflecting the Parnell community’s diverse makeup.

This principal’s office is light with lots of glass and looks out to the playground where he chats to families and students before and after school. Even if you’re only six, George’s office is not in the least intimidating. There’s lots of Lego — he’s a fan — and the pen holder on his desk is a house brick with MR GEORGE embellished proudly by a child’s hand, a gift from a pupil at a previous school. What is not on show are the degrees attesting to George’s academic credentials. They’re still in a plastic sleeve at his Kohimarama home. “I must get around to

bringing them in. Is this the time to mention the masters was with first class honours?”

George brings not only academic success and trajectory up through the teaching grades — his previous role was deputy principal and in charge of curriculum leadership at Manurewa Intermediate — but also an authentic enthusiasm for teaching, and a cracking sense of humour. The children may not know that their principal was an early participant in the Wet Hot Beauties water ballet squad, nor that if he could meet anyone, it would be Beyoncé. But if they were to ask, he’d tell them.

George grew up in tiny Roxburgh, Central Otago. An elder sister was a teacher, but it wasn’t until he was coaching a hockey team of seven and eight-year-olds that he considered teaching as a career.

“I could see this great progress in the kids. I was just loving working with them, and thought, maybe I want to be a PE teacher.

That would be cool and be fun.”

George chose a general teaching degree at what is now the Faculty of Education at the University of Otago. His first role was as a classroom teacher at a primary school in west Auckland. He was only in his second year when he applied for, and was appointed to, the role of teacher-in-charge of maths. He started off teaching maths to Year 4 and 5 students, but picked up that the biggest area of need was for Year 2 and 3s.

Working with the class teachers, George made some innovative changes, and by the end of the year, “we had this massive shift in achievement for Year 2 and 3. All of a sudden I was like, cripes, that’s pretty cool . . . I think it was at that point where I thought, I’m really interested in being a school leader.”

Supported by “great leaders who’ve had faith in me”, George went on to complete the Ministry of Education’s Aspiring Principals’ program, and a master’s degree in education leadership (it was the master’s workload that ruled out continuing in the Wet Hot Beauties retinue).

Parnell District School principal Richard George, above, with labradoodle Chester, and left, with pupils monkeying around: from left, Josh Freer, Year 6, Jimmy Berry, Year 5, and Sam Freer, Year 6. the hobson 29

the good neighbour

He’s bashful about coming across as sounding full of himself when asked what he specifically brings to Parnell. He suggests “an innovative perspective to what we can do,” underpinned by his focus on student achievement.

“That’s something I’m really passionate about, aligning school systems to do the absolute best in student achievement.

“The focus from the board was “Let’s find out really what best innovative practice looks like, and let’s give our kids that environment”.”

Parnell Board of Trustees chair Kate Berry says the board picked up on that “unwavering focus on accelerated student achievement”.

“Richard’s passion for education is incredibly inspiring and this passion has made an immediate impact on the school,” says Berry. “Who doesn’t love coming to school when their leader is totally focused on student outcomes, has incredible passion for the community he serves, and is just a good old nice guy to go with it?”

The good old nice guy didn’t muck around when he started, working with the board and the school’s leadership group to articulate his vision in both words and action. They ultimately came to a list of three key attributes they want Parnell kids to demonstrate: be enabled learners, be globally aware, and honour kaitiaki, or guardianship, of their school and community.

Enabled learning means students, supported by their teachers, set learning goals for themselves, create an action plan to get there, and then reflect on how it worked, or didn’t.

George wants his students to head off to high school selfdirecting and motivated.

“The reason that [enabled learning] is really important is because it’s actually about preparing students to be successful in life.

“We’re building, from five, enabled learners, where they actually lead their learning, with support. As they get older, through their eight-year journey with us, their supports will slowly drift away, so that by the time they leave us at the end of Year 8, they are totally enabled learners who can say, “I know what I need to achieve in writing. I know what I need to achieve in reading. I know what I need to achieve in maths.

I know what I’m really good at, and I know what I need help with.”

Stepping out the door after the morning interval to an almost deserted playground, George is almost immediately intercepted by one of those enabled learners. Una, 6, is on her

way to show him a story she has written. Her teacher thought it so good, it was worth sharing with Mr George. He listens attentively and suggests she come to his office after lunch, and Chester just may have a sticker for her.

Parnell District School opened in 1873, from 1880 stood on Parnell Rise in what is now Fraser Park, before moving to its present site in 1933 (where St Stephen’s Māori Boys School stood before it relocated to Bombay). The original 1930s classrooms are large and airy with interconnecting doors, decades ahead of the shared-space concepts now commonplace in school architecture.

The school’s grounds maintain a balance between the traditional and the new — there’s sturdy mature trees that can be climbed, alongside modern, shade-covered, safetyfirst playground equipment. Between some of the old and newer blocks are vegetable gardens that are harvested for the Auckland City Mission.

Classroom furniture in both old and new buildings has evolved to help learning: boys love a high table, says George, girls seem to prefer working in closer groups. Everywhere around the school children are engrossed in what’s happening, some quietly, some more chatty, depending on the activity.

More of George’s changes to how the school operates are in action. There’s been a full-time teacher appointed to the library, and a small room has been repurposed as a broadcast unit, “Waipapa Streaming”. Initially coached

by George, students produce and present two broadcasts a week via a private YouTube channel. On Mondays, the activities of the coming week are covered off, on Fridays, they discuss what they’ve learnt, or share goals.

In his own time, George claims to be “a bit boring, really”.

There’s puppy classes with Chester, catch-ups with friends, and, well, more time at school.

“I do love it. That’s sort of my biggest problem I guess. I ended up here most of the summer, because there was so much to do, and I’m excited about that.”

So, Beyoncé, if you’re reading this, think about enrolling Blue Ivy here next time you’re on an Australasian tour. The principal’s a fan, and your baby could do a lot worse.

Parnell District School has launched an appeal to raise funds for urgent repairs to the stone wall which encompasses the grounds. See the story in The Village, page 11.

Una Misic, 6, reads her principal a very good story she has written, about a weta the hobson 30

The 6 Star Concierge Experience - By Cathy Roselli, local Ray White real estate salesperson Advertisement

Some people personify professionalism. As local real estate salesperson Cathy Roselli discovered, Milan isn’t just the home of fashion.

“Benvenuto, welcome!” was the greeting that awaited us from the concierge at a quaint, family run, art deco hotel in the heart of Milan’s Fashion District. From the moment we stepped in the door the concierge, Giovanni, immediately set the tone for the five days that followed. Charming, gregarious, knowledgeable, he left a lasting impression on me that’s on a par with the Duomo di Milano – the stunning Gothic cathedral in the main square of Milan.

Giovanni was a walking encyclopaedia of Milan – an absolute expert at knowing where to shop, the best restaurants to eat and what to see - he had everything we needed to know at his fingertips. He was the consummate professional, oozed class and sophistication and was just so passionately dedicated to his career.

His welcoming, genuine spirit emanated throughout the entire hotel. He really rolled out the red carpet of service for us and laid on the six star treatment. The concierge experience is an overriding memory of Milan, and that’s saying something given the breathtaking Milanese architecture.

Although being a hotelier and real estate sales person are two very different roles, there are a lot of similar characteristics. In my case, I see it as a genuine desire to help and give people a memorable customer experience.

So how do you replicate that Rolls-Royce type of experience that you only get from the very best hotels? What does it mean to be the six star concierge of real estate?

For me, it’s about not just ticking the boxes and following a formula. It’s about giving each customer a unique service and experience tailored to their individual needs. Because we don’t want a cookie-cutter holiday and we certainly don’t want a run-of-the mill, uninventive real estate sales person selling our prized asset.

The very best concierge will try to truly understand what you’re looking for and add value to your holiday. The success of any holiday is often dependent on the experience.

Likewise, the value you get for your home and the experience you have is often dependent on the sales person you’ve entrusted.

In the same way that the best hotel concierge will do everything they can to give you the holiday of a lifetime, I like to see myself as the real estate concierge that gets you the best result - with an a high-class experience along the way!

At Ray White, part of our success is the family element which runs through the veins of the company. Whenever our chairman Brian White, the grandson of our founder, Ray White, is in town he always makes a point of checking in on us personally to catch up. This is one of the reasons why Ray White won the Ernst & Young Family Business Award not so long ago.

So whether you’re deciding which hotel to stay at or who to trust with selling your home, you can never go past the leaders in professionalism and expertise.

Mobile: 021 750 454 E-mail: cathy.roselli@raywhite.com Website: http://www.cathyroselli.com

the good neighbour

A Shot at Living A Parnell surgeon restores women’s lives in Uganda, with an entrepreneurial twist

J

ackie Smalldridge’s Parnell villa has roses in the front garden and a pool in the back. It’s a calm and peaceful environment, and an easy commute from her work as a urogynaecological specialist at her Epsom practice.

Both locations are thousands of miles away, literally and physically, from the Kagando Mission Hospital in western Uganda, where she also operates, in very different circumstances.

In September, Dr Smalldridge will again leave Auckland, with its clean running water, reliable power supply and wellequipped operating theatres for Kagando, where none of those things can be relied upon. At a clinic attached to the hospital, Smalldridge will take her place in a team of volunteer specialist

gynaecological surgeons, supported by Medical Aid Abroad, operating to repair obstetric fistulas and prolapses.

Fistulas, holes in the bladder or rectum usually caused by prolonged labour or a difficult birth, are rarely a problem in the developed world, Smalldridge explains. The poorer the country and the less empowered the women, the higher the rate of fistula (see panel on following page). Fixed only by surgery, fistulas cause the contents of the bladder or bowel — or in the most miserable cases, both— to leak through the vagina.

“The women are often very young, they’ve lost their babies, they’re often shunned by their husband and their family, because they’re leaking urine or faeces,” Smalldridge says.

The surgery is highly specialised, and it is life-changing for

the hobson 32

the patient. After post-operative recovery and care, the women are able to return to their villages, their dignity restored. Local nurses assist the surgical team, and act as translators for the patients. English and Swahili are Uganda’s official languages, but the mostly rural women speak up to eight different local dialects as well as Rwandan languages, as the clinic is close to the border.

“We have two surgical teams working side by side in the theatre, which is one thing you don’t see here,” says Smalldridge. “There’s no disposables, so the linens are washed and you see them drying on the line outside the clinic.”

By the end of each two-week clinic, which are held twice a year, up to 120 women will have been treated.

Smalldridge, who has done two tours in Uganda (she also volunteers in surgical teams to Vanuatu and Samoa), arrives for each clinic with a suitcase full of her professional needs: disposable gloves, surgical scrubs, suture thread, rechargeable headlamps to counter the unreliable lighting.

“Oh yes, there’s a huge adjustment when I get back here again,” she says.

“Having disposable gowns, decent light in the theatre. I really appreciate what we have.”

Parsimony with supplies in Uganda carries over too. “I’m very careful with sutures to use the smallest amount of thread possible. In theatre, back in Auckland, the nurses have me on about it when I’m tying these very careful knots with the tiniest amount of thread. “Jackie, you know we’ve got packets of that in the cupboard”.”

On her second visit to Kagando, last July, a colleague told Smalldridge about the headquarters of a local coffee co-operative not far from the hospital, and she arranged to visit on an afternoon off. The Bukonzo Joint Co-operative Union represents around 5000 small-holding farmers, more than 80 per cent of them women, in the Rwenzori mountain region. Many of the farms are subsistence level, with a few coffee plants grown for additional income.

Nurses and patients gather outside the Kagando Mission Hospital for a photo call, left. Inset, Parnell surgeon Dr Jackie Smalldridge. Photos courtesy of Jackie Smalldridge.

"If you look at the reasons women are growing coffee, it's because a lot of them want the money to educate their children," says Dr Smalldridge, photographed at the Bukonzo Joint headquarters, near the mountains between Uganda and Rwanda.

the hobson 33

the good neighbour

On that visit, Smalldridge, who laughs at the idea that she’s an entrepreneur, saw an opportunity that could help both the local women, and the fistula clinic. Her suitcase emptied of its surgical supplies payload, she purchased 7kg of roasted beans to bring back to NZ. “I didn’t want green ones as I had no idea how Customs would feel about those.”

No coffee snob — “I enjoy a flat white, but I can’t say I know anything much about coffee” — she consulted with colleagues about where to take her beans. Talk to Mike Murphy at Kokako was the suggestion. A roaster of organic coffee, Kokako’s values appeared to align with what Smalldridge aimed to do.

“As it happened Bukonzo Joint had had quite a lot of input from NGOs [non-government organisations] along the way, so they were certified organic, they’re single origin, and they are certified Free Trade. All those boxes had been ticked, so when I approached Mike, who wants single origin, organic, Free Trade coffee, all that had been done.”

Mike Murphy liked Smalldridge’s work, and the coffee. He organised to buy a shipment of Bukonzo Joint green beans via Trade Aid, and last month, Kokako launched its newest coffee, with a funding plan in place to give $1 to Medical Aid Abroad from every pack sold, as well as funds to Bukonzo Joint.

“For us, coffee is all about relationships, from the coffee farmers right through the supply chain to the customer,” says Murphy. “When Jackie first approached us, not only did we have a strong ethical and emotional connection to the work she is doing in Uganda, but we also liked the coffee, and thought it was worth further investigation. The way we have sourced this coffee may seem unconventional, but the way it unfolded has been quite remarkable.”

“If 250 people buy the coffee,” says Smalldridge, “that’s a $250 donation and that’s the cost of one operation, or one package of care if you like, for one woman — transport, having her surgery, staying for as long as she needs to stay, and getting home again.”

Smalldridge will head back to Uganda in spring and is hoping her husband, Dr Andrew Jeffs, may accompany her.

There’s a slight drawback that Jeffs is a marine biologist, and Uganda, a landlocked country. But as she’s done with her

fundraising coffee, Smalldridge has worked out a tidy solution.

“I’m hoping he can come as a handyman. He’s very good at that sort of thing, and there’d be plenty around the clinic for him to do.” — Kirsty Cameron

OBSTETRIC FISTULA In developed countries, the risk of women dying during pregnancy and childbirth is 1 in 2800. In sub-Saharan Africa, the risk is 1 in 16.

And for each maternal death, 30 women will be seriously injured or disabled during childbirth.

Over 60 per cent of obstetric fistula occur in a first labour, and the labour may have gone on for as long as four days. More than 90 per cent of the babies are stillborn. Left physically damaged and incontinent, and with no baby, the mothers are often shunned by their husbands and families due to their medical condition.

It is estimated there’s around 2 million women globally suffering untreated obstetric fistula. Poor nutrition, reduced access to medical care, early marriage (many of the women the surgeons treat are aged under 20) and the subordinate position of women in traditional societies are some of the reasons for the high numbers of cases.

—Information from Dr Jackie Smalldridge/ Medical Aid Abroad

Bukonzo Joint coffee, in either whole beans or ground, is available at Brighton Rd Cafe, Farro Orakei Bay Village, or to order from kokako. co.nz . From every 200g pack sold at retail, $1 will be donated to Medical Aid Abroad to support the work of the urogynaecological surgeons at the Kagondo clinic. The donation is over and above the Fairtrade premium on the coffee which goes back to the Bukonzo Joint cooperative.

For more information on Bukonzo Joint and its farmers, see bukonzojointcoffee.com MEET JACKIE SMALLDRIDGE Kokako is hosting a Bukonzo Joint tasting session at Pasture, 235 Parnell Rd, on Saturday April 1, 10am to 11am. Dr Smalldridge will be there to talk about her work in Uganda. All welcome. the hobson 34

A New Home for University of Auckland’s Water Sports Clubs The University of Auckland’s commitment to the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre is a significant step in the delivery of a new community facility, set to open in 2018.

The University of Auckland join founding partners Royal Akarana Yacht Club and Auckland Sailing Club as a key affiliate of the Centre. Located on the shores of Okahu Bay, the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre will be a hub of activity and a place to call home for the University’s club members, together with other user groups including Sailability, Auckland Canoe Club, and Auckland City Triathlon Club.

The University has several established water sports clubs including Canoe, Underwater and Kite Surfing.

Investing in the facility will provide these clubs with greater access to the water, storage facilities, and will allow for growth in sports such as Sailing, Waka Ama, Stand-up Paddleboarding and Kayaking, all of which have seen a surge in student interest in recent years.

As a key partner, The University’s investment towards the $13m facility will secure a long-term home for its student marine clubs.

“This is a unique opportunity for the University to better connect with the Waitemata Harbour and provide an enhanced student experience”, says Louis Rattray, Associate Director Campus Life: Sport and

Recreation. “Participating in sport and recreation whilst at University has been proven to help students be more successful. Providing an environment which includes sport and recreation opportunities helps students make friends, reduce stress, improve wellbeing and improve employability.”

Andrew Brookland, General Manager of Akarana Marine Sports Charitable Trust, the governing body managing the new Centre, says “the support and investment from the University of Auckland is hugely significant in helping us to deliver on the Centre’s aspirations - to be an inclusive, progressive and vibrant community hub that provides pathways to the sea.”

The partnership with University of Auckland was pivotal in reaching the $10m funding target required to commence the construction of the Centre and deliver an operational building, public café, boat storage and Joyce Fisher Youth Education Room.

Further fundraising for the Centre continues to secure the remaining $3m required to complete the fit-out of the first floor. This will include training, education and function rooms, management and administration offices, operational and security enhancements.

The demolition process has begun on the existing Royal Akarana Yacht Club to make way for the new Hyundai Marine Sports Centre. The new modern facility is due to open late 2018.

ADVERTORIAL

On the shores of Okahu Bay a new community hub is in the making The Hyundai Marine Sports Centre, a marine based multi-sports facility and café, will be a place to actively participate, spectate or enjoy the stunning views in a safe, inclusive environment.

Construction on The Landing in Okahu Bay is underway and the Centre is on track to open in spring 2018.

AkaranaMarineSports www.AkaranaMarineSports.co.nz

the anzacs

The Boucher Brothers On April 25, Anzac Day ceremonies at the Auckland War Memorial Museum and at Remuera’s College Rifles Rugby Football Club will again honour New Zealanders who gave their lives in war. Remuera Heritage chair Sue Cooper writes of the Boucher brothers, neither of whom returned home from WWI.

E

dgar “Teddy” Woodward Boucher and his younger brother, Arthur Francis, were the sons of Ernest and Anna Augusta Boucher (nee Vercoe) of Westbourne Rd, Remuera. Edgar was born on November 15, 1893, Arthur following two years later, on August 20, 1895.

More is known about Edgar’s life than Arthur’s, but you could reasonably suppose that the younger brother too was educated firstly at St John’s Collegiate school at The Pah in Onehunga, before both boys attended King’s College. Edgar left St John’s as head prefect, and at King’s passed the matriculation and solicitors’ general knowledge examination, and received prizes for character, scholarship, leadership, and athletics. He also won prizes for elocution, Shakespeare and having the best drilled section in the cadet corps.

A senior cadet at College Rifles and for four years in the Territorial Reserve, Edgar studied at Auckland University College from 1912 to 1914. He was working as a surveyor’s assistant to Thomas McFarlane in the Victoria Arcade when New Zealand declared it was at war with Germany on August 4, 1914.

Four days later, Edgar enlisted, and joined College Rifles’ New Zealand Signallers Company. On August 15, he was part of New Zealand’s first military operation in WWI, sailing on the Monowai to the German colony of Samoa with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Britain had asked New Zealand to seize Samoa as a “great and urgent Imperial service” and New Zealand’s response had been swift. Led by Lieutenant-

Colonel Robert Logan, the 1400-strong Samoa Advance Party landed at Apia on August 29. There was no resistance from German officials nor the general population. On January 4, 1915, Edgar was discharged to take up civil employment as assistant surveyor in Apia.

However, after Gallipoli that April, Edgar returned home and in October 1915, re-enlisted as a sapper in the 9th Reinforcements New Zealand Engineers, sailing from Wellington on the Maunganui to Egypt. Arthur Boucher would also enlist as a sapper.

Edgar disembarked at Alexandria, went by train to Zeitoun Camp near Cairo for training and then joined the other NZ Signallers at El Moascar, in north-western Egypt.

On April 6, 1916, he left Alexandria on the SS Minnewaska for France. On board were 65 officers, 1667 troops and 468 assorted horses, mules and bullocks. Their destination was the western front battlefields of the Somme.

During the Battle of the Somme in July 1916, Edgar was wounded in the leg, during fighting at Pozieres, northern France. He spent time in hospital near Calais, before rejoining the New Zealand Signallers in October. Edgar was probably involved in the successful taking of Messines from the Germans in Belgium the following June.

On October 12, 1917, Edgar was reported missing in action. The NZ Division’s involvement in the Third Battle of Ypres, attacking the Passchendaele Ridge, resulted in what remains New Zealand's most disastrous military day.

On October 4, the division had captured Gravenstafel

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Spur, and a week later was given the objective of capturing Bellevue Spur. On the fateful day, New Zealand troops attacked across waterlogged ground at Passchendaele, suffering some 3700 casualties without gaining Bellevue Spur. Edgar had been laying cable under heavy shellfire. At the end of the battle, 45 officers and 800 serving men lay either dead or mortally wounded between the lines. In terms of lives lost in a single day, this remains the darkest day in New Zealand’s post-1840 existence.

The following May, a court of enquiry was held to determine Edgar’s status. It concluded he was killed in action, a month short of his 24th birthday. Sappers Weir and McKenzie gave evidence at the enquiry: Weir: I was a member of Lieutenant Harty’s line party.

In the attack on Passchendaele, our party’s job was to lay the line to the forward stations of attacking brigades. The last I saw of [Edgar] was when he was making joints when we came to the end of the first drum of cable. This was near Fleet Cottage.

McKenzie: I was also a member of Harty’s party. The last I saw of him on the day in question, was when he was taking shelter from the shelling near Fleet Cottage. I could see him from a dugout about 40-50 yards to the south.

I saw him crawl out of sight and if he remained, he was certainly killed as the shelling was intense.

Two weeks before his brother’s death, Arthur Boucher survived being wounded in France. Shot in the thigh, he was admitted to hospital in Camiers Dannes, before being transferred to a military hospital in England, in February 1918. By May, he was strong enough to rejoin the Signallers, at Stevenage.

Arthur had found happiness during the war: a week after

his 23rd birthday in August 1918, he married Dora Annie Walton, at All Saints Church in Lincoln. After the armistice, he was discharged for return to NZ, but his records note that by the end of January 1919, he was seriously ill with pneumonia. Arthur died at 23, a long way from home, at the Prees Heath Military Hosptital in Shropshire, on February 6, 1919. He was buried in Lincoln, the funeral conducted by the same minister who had married him and Dora only six months before. Arthur is buried at St Swithin’s Cemetery in Lincoln, and remembered, like Edgar, at St Aidan’s Church in Remuera, and on the Rolls of Honour at both College Rifles and King’s College.

Edgar is also remembered at the Tyne Cot Cemetery, Zonnebeke, Belgium, along with many other young New Zealanders who went missing at Passchendaele.

The brass plaque memorial to Edgar was dedicated at St Aidan’s Anglican Church, Remuera, by the Bishop of Auckland, Dr A W Averill, on September 1, 1918. In her book From Royal Mail to e-mail: A History of St Aidan’s Church Remuera 1905 – 2005, author Angela Caughey wrote of the community being deeply distraught at the deaths of parishioners — ““Teddy” Boucher the son of a former vestryman, was killed. People came in large numbers to the special Gallipoli commemoration service, to the Easter services and to Holy Communion ... The dedication of the Edgar W Boucher memorial plaque saw cadets in uniform, carrying handsome silk flags, standing at attention by the memorial, as the bishop unveiled it”.

Sources consulted for this article include nzhistory.govt. nz, Archives New Zealand and Papers Past (paperspast. natlib.govt.nz)

Remuera's Boucher brothers: Arthur (left), and Edgar (Teddy).

Main picture, gun crew in the mud at Passchendaele, by Geoffery Stagg.

PAColl-2667-014, Alexander Turnbull Library

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the magpie

Paint it Pink The Magpie turns up new season pinks with a splash of black, for a look that’s a little bit city, a little bit rock’n’roll Karen Walker continues to delight with her eyewear collection. Her new glasses campaign stars the design maven herself. Ms Walker wears Felipe Silver with Soft Grey frames, $389. From Karen Walker, Balm St or Britomart, or karenwalker.com

Slouchy style in the prettiest dusty rose shade.The Last Days Slouch Cardigan by Kowtow, $349, could be your autumn/ winter new best friend. From kowtow.co.nz A crossbody (hands free) bag is a must for the Magpie and this Karen Walker Mae Crossbody, $495, is the latest and greatest to catch our eye. Where form meets function, there is perfection. From Karen Walker, Balm St or Britomart, or karenwalker.com Make your summery camis work through the winter. Pull on a sharp black blazer to dress up, or play with texture and add a cardigan for a more casual look. Witchery Layered Sequin Tank, $199.90, from witchery. co.nz, or 2 Nuffield St

All three would be a little extravagant, don’t you think? These stunning Idylle Blossom Twist bracelets by Louis Vuitton are available in white, yellow and pink gold, and work beautifully alone or worn as a collection. $4550 each, available at Louis Vuitton, Queen St

Freedom Furniture’s Sanctuary Chair, $799, is so cool we can see it in the entrance way, the bedroom or as an upbeat addition to an existing suite in the good room. freedomfurniture.co.nz or Freedom Broadway

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Who hefts around a giant wallet these days? Sharpen up your look with a Deadly Ponies Mini Wallet Crocotile, $225, and free yourself from the curse of the overflowing purse. From deadlyponies.com

Who can resist a $10 room update? Not The Magpie.

Indeed, The Magpie is all about a bit of Kmart for the nest, as they’ve kinda got their act together on the homewares front. Foil Spot Cushion, $10. From www.kmart.co.nz

Kendall and Gigi are all about the skinpeeping boot right now. The Beau5 Plait

by Beau Coops is just a little more real life than a skyscraper stiletto. Soft, woven nubuck, it’s detailed with punchy silver studs down the back. $590 from scarpa.co.nz

Bang-on trend, the gold ankle boot will be an absolute mainstay of your look this season.

Team with midi skirts, long skirts, long or cropped pants or jeans. Goldy Boots, $279.90, from witchery.co.nz, or Nuffield St

Socks and sneakers are a thing this season. Not a comfort thing, but a fashion thing. Large Spot Socks, $12.90, from Witchery are a good start to working this look.

From witchery.co.nz, or Nuffield St

You can rain on my parade, but only if I’m wearing this super-cute No Rain Tee, $190, from twentysevennames.co.nz

The sexy, feminine-but-rocking style has never looked so wearable. The Magpie is loving this new collection from Storm — Rock & Roll sequin tee $119, Liquid Satin skirt $189, Blurred Vision cardigan, $179. stormonline.com, or Teed St

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the pretty

New Best Friends Justine Williams selects the crème de la crème of new products instore

bareMinerals’ new Invisible Bronze Powder Bronzer offers a natural, sun-kissed glow. A perfect dusting for winter pale skin. $44, from Mecca Cosmetica meccabeauty.co.nz

The new YSL Volupté Tint-in-Balm is a hybrid formulation blending the very best in nourishing lip care and sheer colour. Available in 12 shades, $66 from YSL counters

Love your curls, and keep them manageable with this keratin and elastin-infused masque designed for over voluminous, unruly hair. Discipline Curl Idéal Masque by Kérastase $66 from Kerastase salons

Pure Vitality Skin Renewing Cream by Kiehl’s is a 99.6% naturally-derived formula that combines two world-renowned wellness ingredients — New Zealand’s own manuka honey, and Korean red ginseng root. The ultimate in hydration and repair. $98 from Kiehl’s counters

The same sensual woody juice as before, but encased in 18k gold? Yes please, Marc. Marc Jacobs Decadence One Eight K Edition eau de parfum, 100ml, $199 from Smith & Caughey’s for a limited time only

This YSL Baby Doll Kiss & Blush Duo Stick in a compact colour balm glides easily over lips, cheeks or both for a kiss of colour. Use singularly or blur together. $69 from YSL counters

Go for strong nail colour as the cooler months approach.

Rich crimsons, deep blues and greens are part of the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Le Vernis A L’Huile palette. $11.99 each, from pharmacies

Dermalogica have hopped a giant step forward with their new Daily Superfoliant, $109. Pricey but powerful, it’s a punchy exfoliating product to include in your daily regimen

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New season, time to rethink the foundation?

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear is as good as it gets for ultra-comfortable long wear, and a velvety matte finish. $73 from Lancôme counters

the appetite

Sister Act A squad of Remuera sisters have created a social media following based on their shared love of food, cooking, travel and adventure

I

n the Hadlow household in Remuera, there’s always a crowd in the kitchen, and never more so than on the occasions when all five daughters are at home with their parents, surgeon Alastair and lawyer Karol Hadlow. “The Hadlow Girls” range in age from 20 to 28. The eldest are Charlotte and Victoria, both lawyers, then Rachel, who works in banking, followed by medical student Claudia and fashion marketer Laura, the secondyoungest child. Rounding out the team is student Alastair, 18, the sole Had-lad in the sibling subset.

Almost five years ago, the sisters, all enthusiastic cooks, decided to start a blog detailing their culinary adventures — www. whatsyummy.org. With Charlotte and Claudia now living in Sydney, and the five often travelling to wildly scenic locations, the blog has extended to become a travelogue as well. Interest in the blog spun off the sisters’ Instagram account. @hadlowgirls has 5,600-plus followers and the tagline “five sisters doing what sisters do best”, with emojis representing food, drink and travel.

Team Hadlow spokesperson Victoria caucused with her sisters before talking to THE HOBSON about how their social presence developed, and where it may lead. The sisters also selected recipes to share (see following pages).

How did you all become interested in food and cooking?

Our grandparents on our mum Karol’s side are Croatian, and like any Mediterranean culture, food is the epicentre of every social gathering. Food and cooking really is part of our DNA. Growing up with our Nana, Naja, and also our mum in the kitchen, making delicious strudels and Croatian pastries, cooking stews and pastas, tossing together big salads covered in olive oil and eating Europeaninfluenced foods like salami, prosciutto and pomegranate, way before they featured on the shelves of your local supermarket, it was only natural that we wanted to help out in the kitchen too.

Was there a paternal food influencer too?

One thing we did learn from our dad was how to make French toast, which was always a part of the big breakfasts he’d make us on Sunday mornings.

How did your Instagram and blog evolve?

The blog started as a hobby, particularly for me, as I’ve done most of the writing. Given we’re all good friends, we’d often find ourselves visiting cafes together on the weekends and thought that there was a hole in the market for a blog that gave personal accounts of the

The Hadlow sisters, from left, Charlotte, Victoria, Rachel, Claudia, Laura, together at the family home in Remuera.

All photos courtesy of Victoria Hadlow the hobson 41

the appetite

best spots in Auckland. Since then, Auckland’s dining scene has grown a lot and very quickly. Honestly, we’ve given up trying to cover every new café in Auckland, and have instead expanded our blog to include reviews of different cities, and also the odd post of a favourite recipe or article. With the growth of Instagram, we’ve found that @hadlowgirls has become a main platform for us to share our experiences with our followers.

How do you achieve consensus as to what’s blog-worthy or not?

We all have pretty similar tastes and we like to think we know what is good about a café, and what is not, so consensus is surprisingly easy to achieve! We don’t have set rules, but instead follow our gut instincts, quite literally, when it comes to food.

Five cooks, five different palates. What are each of your strengths?

Laura’s is baking lots of unique and healthier versions of classic treats, like rocky road and banana loaf (that’s her recipe). Rachel is excellent at whipping up original meals that use interesting ingredients, lots of spices and daring flavours. She makes a fantastic vegetarian curry, and also a vegan and refined sugar-free pecan tart.

Claudia is studying medicine in Sydney, and is slowly working her way through every recipe in Deliciously Ella’s cookbook! She is relatively recently a vegetarian, so she enjoys exploring new recipes that focus on that style of food. Charlotte is the best at a savoury breakfast, and can do every style of egg you can imagine. I make a great cheese board, and love doing any type of baking.

When you're together for a family occasion, who decides the menu?

We spent a lot of time together throughout our teens, studying and living in Auckland. Now with full time jobs, travel and living in different time zones, our catch-ups are not always in full attendance. The three of us who live in Auckland have at least three meals together a week, at our parents’ home or at a café on Saturday for brunch.

When it comes to picking the menu when we’re cooking, Mum and I usually have a fair bit of sway, but often it’s dependent on whose friends are coming over, and what everyone feels like.

We maintain a pretty balanced approach to food – sometimes it will be healthy, while at other times, it definitely won’t be. What we eat often depends on our moods — we are girls — and also the weather. In summer when it’s hot, it’s fresh fish and BBQs, lots of avocado and salads, couscous, bread and olive oils for dinner. When it’s cloudy and cold, you'll see us reaching for hot comfort foods like roast veges, wholemeal penne pasta with a tomato based sauce, roast lamb, lasagne, followed by chocolate, popcorn, peppermint tea and a movie. As a family, we love to eat a Sunday roast together.

You’re probably one of the few, if not the only, set of five siblings who have this shared cooking passion that you so clearly enjoy.

Do you see this becoming bigger than a blog and social media?

A cooking show or YouTube channel would be very fun! It’s just a matter of getting us all organised to do it, which is a little difficult now that we are all working, studying or living in different locations. We think New Zealand is a relatively untouched wonder of a country, and that it has a lot to offer in respect of gastronomy, adventure experiences and hospitality options. We’d love to share these New Zealand experiences with more of the world, and promote the “hidden gems” more. We would also like to continue to travel, documenting our experiences and sharing them with followers. We personally think it’s much better when you find a blogger that you can relate to, and they have tips to share.

HEALTHY BANANA LOAF This is our favourite recipe for fantastic and healthy banana bread, which is fluffy, moist and naturally sweetened. It’s flavoured with cinnamon, so will infuse your house with a delicious, warming aroma as it bakes – just the thing to ward off the chill that comes with the change of season! Definitely one for all ages, this loaf won’t last long out of the oven (unless you have extremely impressive self-control).

Makes approx. 8 thick slices ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil or high quality vegetable oil ½ cup honey or maple syrup (or half and half) 2 eggs 1 cup mashed banana (about 2½ medium or 2 large bananas), plus 1 banana sliced in half for decoration ¼ cup milk of choice, or water 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more to swirl on top 1¾ cups wholemeal spelt flour (or flour of your choice e.g. buckwheat, brown rice or wheat) Preheat oven to 165C and line a loaf tin with baking paper.

In a large bowl, beat the oil and honey together with a whisk.

Add the eggs and whisk well, then whisk in the mashed bananas and milk. (If your coconut oil solidifies on contact with cold ingredients, simply let the bowl rest in a warm place for a few minutes, like on top of your stove, or warm it for about 10 seconds in the microwave).

Add the baking soda, vanilla, salt and cinnamon and whisk to blend. Lastly, switch to a big spoon and fold in the flour, until just combined.

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. For a swirled effect on top, run the tip of a knife across the batter in a zig-zag pattern. Place the remaining banana, sliced in half lengthways, on top.

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Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes, and then transfer it to a wire rack to cool for 20 minutes before slicing.

This is a fantastic addition to any lunchbox, or as morning or afternoon tea, and a perfect dessert paired with Greek yoghurt and extra cinnamon!

BAKED SALMON SIDE Growing up in a big family, cooking for large groups doesn’t faze us but we have learnt that over-complicated recipes (and ones that create too many dishes) are exactly the opposite of what you want. A favourite in our house for long family lunches or weekend dinners is this oven-baked salmon side, marinated in lemon zest, basil, lots of seasoning and a dash of olive oil. With minimal preparation required and fresh flavours, it ticks all the boxes.

Serves 8 - 10 1.8kg fresh salmon fillet, skin on, bones out 1 big lemon, zested and juiced 1 bunch fresh basil, leaves picked and finely chopped Olive oil, rock salt, freshly ground black pepper Baking paper, aluminium foil Heat your oven to 200C. Remove the salmon fillet from the fridge and allow to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes, before rinsing under fresh water.

Place a piece of baking paper on a big piece of aluminium foil that has been folded in half. Place the salmon fillet on top of the baking paper, skin side down. Using a sharp knife, slash it evenly all over its flesh, making the incisions about 1cm deep. Sprinkle the lemon zest and most of the chopped basil over the salmon, then push these flavourings deep into the incisions you’ve made. Squeeze over the lemon juice, pour a dash of olive oil on top, then season with lots of salt and pepper.

Place another piece of aluminium foil on top of the salmon and wrap it up so that it looks like a big parcel – the aim is to have no gaps in the parcel so that the juices don’t leak out.

Place the salmon parcel on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 35 to 40 mins, or until it is just cooked through. Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Serve accompanied with the colourful couscous salad (below).

A packet of instant couscous – you will need 1 cup, which will make about 4 cups when cooked Half a pumpkin, skin off, chopped into approx. 2cm x 2cm cubes 2 red onions, peeled and cut into quarters Half a punnet of cherry tomatoes Olive oil Salt and pepper 200g rocket leaves 100g feta, cut into cubes 1 pomegranate, seeded Roasted pumpkin seeds for garnish Optional: pomegranate molasses for drizzling at the end Cook the couscous following the method on the packet. Set to the side. While the couscous is cooking, heat the oven to 180C.

COLOURFUL COUSCOUS & PUMPKIN SALAD This couscous salad made with roast pumpkin, feta, rocket, pumpkin seeds and pomegranate is a colourful addition to any table. It’s also really good because it can be made in advance and eaten cold. Mix up the salad dressing and the toppings – if you can’t get hold of pomegranate seeds, dried cherries or cranberries will also add a tart kick.

Place the pumpkin, red onion and cherry tomatoes in an ovenproof baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper, and place in oven to bake for approximately 40 mins, or until the pumpkin is soft and browning on the edges.

Mix the rocket leaves through the couscous and spread over a serving platter. Top with the roasted veges, sprinkle with feta, pomegranate and roasted pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with your favourite dressing – we use pomegranate molasses.

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the cinema

The April Screen BEYOND THE KNOWN WORLD

Based on the book History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier, the film recounts writer Deborah Lipstadt’s (Weisz) battle against controversial British military historian David Irving (Spall).

Lipstadt had proclaimed him a Holocaust denier, Irving sued her and her publisher, Penguin Books, for libel. Adapted for the screen by acclaimed British playwright David Hare, Denial seeks to continue the dialogue around injustice, and the accountability and visibility of the Holocaust.

Director Pan Nalin.

Starring: David Wenham, Sia Trokenheim, Emmanuelle Béart When 19-year-old Eva fails to return home to Auckland from a trip to India, her divorced parents Carl (Wenham, most recently seen in Lion) and Julie (Step Dave’s Trokenheim) are naturally desperate to find her.

Old wounds are reopened as their search heralds no results, and Carl becomes convinced his daughter is dead. Written by Kiwi Dianne Taylor, Beyond is the first film to come from a recent NZ-India movie co-production agreement.

WINTER AT WESTBETH

THEIR FINEST Director Lone Scherfig. Starring Gemma Arterton, Sam Claflin, Jack Huston, Bill Nighy This romantic drama is set during WWII London. Emptied of its men, the city is at a social crossroads. Enter Catrin Cole (Arterton), a scriptwriter hired by the Ministry of Information to bring "a woman's touch" to the wartime propaganda films. Quickly noticed by movie producer Buckley (Clafin), the two set about reinventing the wartime love story, in the wake of the Blitz.

PERSONAL SHOPPER Director Olivier Assayas. Starring Kristen Stewart, Sigrid Bouaziz, Lars Eidinger Stewart reunites with her Cloud of Sils Maria director for this psychological

drama. Set in the underground world of the Parisian fashion scene, it’s a thriller, but also a ghost story. Personal assistant to a celebrity, Maureen (Stewart) is in Paris collecting couture for her boss, but she’s also receiving messages from her recentlydeceased twin brother.

DENIAL Director Mick Jackson. Starring Rachel Weisz, Timothy Spall, Tom Wilkinson

Director Rohan Spong Filmed over a year at New York City’s Westbeth Artists Housing, this documentary follows Edith Stephen as she tries to complete her experimental film in time for her birthday. Edith is 95, turning 96, with no plans to slow down. Sharing the limelight are her friends, including 75-year-old legendary dancer Dudley Williams, who is in mid rehearsal for his long-awaited return to the stage, and poet Ilsa Gilbert, 82, who faces the end of her life with shockingly confronting, candid, poetry. A consummate story of community, humanity and the need to keep creating, this is a heartfelt piece. — Caitlin McKenna All films listed are due to release at Rialto Cinemas Newmarket in April

the bookmark

Step Back in Time Many adults love reading, or rereading, children’s books. Here’s some classics and current favourites to browse

WOLF WILDER

WHY WE TOOK THE CAR

UNHOOKING THE MOON

Katherine Rundell (Bloomsbury) Set in the snowy wilds of Russia, this adventurous and inspiring story has the feel of a traditional fairytale. Encompassing themes of family, friendship and revolution, with a brilliantly fierce heroine and her even fiercer wolves.

Wolfgang Herrndorf A wonderful, funny yet poignant, story about an unlikely friendship that develops when two teen boys take an unplanned road trip across Germany. With touches of Catcher in the Rye, it makes for a super read.

Gregory Hughes (Hachette) After the death of their father, siblings Bob and Rat set off on a road trip to New York to search for their long-lost uncle.

It’s funny and sad and original, and has a wonderfully unforgettable central character in the unconventional Rat.

JOURNEY TO THE RIVER SEA

RUNAWAY SETTLERS

SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS

Eva Ibbotson (Pan MacMillan) When Maria is sent to stay with relatives in Brazil, she has no idea what is in store for her. Told with warmth and humour, the story is set in a jungle that teems with life, but holds many secrets.

Elsie Locke (Penguin) The year is 1859 and the penniless Small family arrive in the Canterbury colony, the mother and her six children runaways from an abusive husband and father in Australia.

A much-loved NZ classic.

CHARLOTTE'S WEB

13 REASONS WHY

Arthur Ransome (Vintage) A story for anyone captivated by the world of adventure and imagination. The adventures of the loveable Walker family, the camp on Wild Cat Island, the Swallow, and the two intrepid Amazons, Nancy and Peggy Blackett.

E B White (Penguin) A girl named Fern, a pig named Wilbur and a spider called Charlotte. When Fern saves Wilbur from a dreadful fate, he is sent to a farm where his only friend is Charlotte. An epic, beautifully written story of a pig and a wise, clever spider, encompassing loyalty, love and sacrifice.

Jay Asher (Penguin) A powerful book, delicately written about a difficult subject. Clay receives a package of tapes from a dead classmate. Hannah took her life because she was tired of the world, and more specifically, she had 13 reasons to not live — and Clay was one of them.

Footnote: RUNNING ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLD Jess Butterworth (Hachette) Set in the Himalayas, Tash and Sam and two yaks begin an extraordinary journey.

I loved it, so bookmark this one for its release in June.— Gail Woodward

the sound

Divide and Rule

A

s I write this, the editor of THE HOBSON is yelling at me.

Well she’s not actually yelling at me. She’s emailing me forcibly, but being the gentlewoman she is, she is not even using caps. But I know her well enough to know she’s grumpy that my column is not yet in her inbox. [Editor: Like Douglas Adams, Mr Dickens enjoys the whooshing sound the deadlines make as they fly by].

It is late, but in my defence it’s because I've been waiting to get an album which I'm already calling the “2017 Album Of The Year”.

Now considering we’re not even halfway through the year this is a big call, but it is one I’m prepared to make, because Ed Sheeran has just dropped a master class in popular music.

So, I’ve had his third album for just three days. By the time this is published, you’ve had it for a month. It’s called ÷ (divide). His first two albums were also named after two of the four basic mathematics symbols (x and +), and so you wonder whether the next album will be his last. But I think I'm getting ahead of myself.

Ed Sheeran has had the most amazing career trajectory of any artist in his generation. Armed with only a half-size travelling guitar, a bunch of loop pedals, a remarkably expressive voice and a dab hand with lyrics, he conquered the world in just a few short years.

He stands apart from his corporation-sized competitors armed with armies of songwriters, stylists and marketing experts.

This slightly pudgy, lager filled, smoking ginger, made a point of wearing the same Levi’s jeans day in and day out to show he’s one of us, and his honesty endeared himself to the world.

Along the way, he gave us timeless songs. “The A Team” gave us a real insight into suburban drug use. “Small Bump” spoke to young parents and the heartbreak that can come when you plunge two feet first into parenthood. Then there was “Thinking Out Loud,” which rivals anything Van Morrison has written and will still be played at weddings, and on timeless hits radio stations in 30 years.

His first two albums put 50 million quid into his bank account and climaxed with his outrageous solo tour. A tour that culminated on December 12, 2015, at Mt Smart Stadium here in Auckland in front of 40,000 punters. A tour that included selling out three concerts in a row at Wembley Stadium. A tour where he entertained millions all by his lonesome. Ask anyone who was there, the boy from Suffolk created a stadium sized concert all by himself. Remarkable.

It was such a tsunami of success, fame and fortune that after

the Auckland concert, Ed disappeared. He spent some time backpacking around New Zealand. He turned off all his social media. Back home in England, the pressure of fame was so great that he spent 120 days never leaving his new home in a gated community, ordering in food and keeping away from any screens.

But then, exactly a year after his last concert in Auckland, he announced he was coming back with a new album. So, after the extraordinary success of Ed, his live performances and his albums over the past five years, the release of ÷(divide) carried just as much expectation as trepidation. Could he do it all again?

Well even just three days in, the answer is resoundingly YES. Commercially he aced it. As I write, the 16 songs on ÷ (divide) are currently the top 16 songs on the UK charts, which is another example of how the internet has changed everything. Pity poor Lorde, who released her well received single “Green Light” on the same day. She too was swept aside by the Sheeran avalanche.

But for me it’s not just popular but musically excellent.

Take the very first song, “Eraser”.

It’s electrifying. Firstly it’s a rap. A rap that only Ed Sheeran can do.

No gangsta swagger but remarkable flow, and uniquely English. The subject matter is his extraordinary success and it cuts to the heart like a razor. It’s angry, resentful, grateful and amazed all at the same time and it’s so goddamned catchy!

The next 15 songs veer wildly through genres. Pop, R’n’B, folk, rap and rock. Some songs have classic written all over them, and invite comparisons with Elton John, Paul Simon or even Joni Mitchell. But all are immediately recognisable and indeed could only come from Ed Sheeran. To have such a varied, yet singular voice just blows me away.

How nice it is to have an album that gives you something new every time you listen to it.

Someone once famously said that they saw the future of rock n’ roll and its name was Bruce Springsteen. Let me say I have seen the saviour of popular music and its name is Ed Sheeran. His honesty, his humility, and his sheer musical and vocal talent are so far ahead of the rest of the pretenders that I am constantly staggered. I doubt very much whether there will be another work released this year that combines artistry along with popularity at this level of proficiency.

And to cap it off, he is deeply in love with his high school sweetheart and is starting to drop hints about marriage. Altogether now, AWWWWW. Ed Sheeran may just be the first global superstar who really can do no wrong and along the way earn the title of the Greatest of All Time. — Andrew Dickens

The multiple talents of Ed Sheeran can be heard in ÷ (divide). Photo courtesy Warner Music. the hobson 46

the district diary

April 2017 1&2 The Classic Comedy Bar and Ben Hurley are hosting an exceptional line up of comedians who are donating their time and talent to raise money for worthy causes through Comedy in Action. Choose your charity to support — Saturday is RainbowYOUTH and Sunday’s show supports Women’s Refuge. 321 Queen St, CBD, tickets $30 from eventfinda.co.nz

9 Discover behind-the-scenes secrets of the Pop-up Globe with back-stage Heaven & Hell guided tours, at Ellerslie Racecourse.

The adventurous 80-minute tour involves steps, heights and confined spaces, so flat, covered shoes are a must. R13, only 10 places available per tour, every Sunday until May 14. eventfinda.co.nz

A new event running in conjunction with the Go Green Expo (also this weekend, ASB Showgrounds), the Better Food Fair has live music and a wide range of workshops and seminars covering organics, paleo, vegan, gluten-free, raw and much more. ASB Showgrounds, door sales $10, under 16 free. Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-5pm

8-9 Retirement planning, living and lifestyle is the focus of the Auckland Retirement Lifestyle & Travel Expo 2017, Ellerslie Event Centre, 80 Ascot Ave, 10am-4pm, tickets from eventfinda.co.nz or 0800 BUY TIX

The country comes to town — it’s The Royal Easter Show, to April 17. Free admission, purchase coupons inside for rides. See eastershow.co.nz for information

17 Easter Monday 19 Learn to make and fly a kite and take part in the Easter Bunny Treasure Hunt in the Highwic house and gardens. Adults $10, $1 per child for kite making (max 4 children per adult, must be 5 years+). Highwic, 40 Gillies Ave 21 And they’re off: the World Masters Games starts today, to April 30. 28 sports, 250,000 participants from 85 countries, it’s the biggest sports show in town since the Rugby World Cup. Local events include the half marathon and cycling time trials along Tamaki Dr. For info on what’s on where (and road closures) see worldmastersgames2017.co.nz

See, smell and taste cooking from the authentic Victorian coal range at Highwic House. Every Thursday 11am-2pm, tickets at the door, 40 Gillies Ave

8 Parnell Farmers’ Market, every Saturday from 8am-12pm. Think fresh, think local, think delicious produce. Jubliee Building, 545 Parnell Rd

13 Term 1 finishes for most area schools today.

Term 2 commences Monday May 1

14 Good Friday

6 Join the Cat in the Hat, Mayzie and Horton at the St Cuth’s production of the family musical Suessical, tonight to April 9. Tickets via eventbrite.co.nz or stcuthberts.school.nz

What’s better than messy play? Messy play where you don’t have to clean up! These one-hour sessions for ages one to five use paint, slime, playdough, foam, water, ice, rice, pasta. Great for developing fine motor skills, problem solving and encouraging vocabulary.

Meadowbank Scout Hall, 28c Rutherford Tce, $15 at door, 10am-11am

food trucks. Parking at Gate One of ASB Showgrounds. Free admission, 11am-3pm

Help Epsom Girls Grammar School celebrate the final day of its centenary celebrations at EGGSFest, a fun-packed community festival. Food trucks, cultural performances, children’s activities and a performance of commissioned centenary music. 1pm-4pm, EGGS, Silver Rd, Epsom.

Tickets $6, iticket.co.nz Calling all families, foodies and bargain hunters to the Vicky Ave school gala. Try your hand at dunk the teacher, gumboot throw or coconut shy, find a bargain in the shipping container filled with White Elephant goods, feast on scrumptious goodies. 10am-3pm, 282 Victoria Ave Bring your bikes to Cornwall Park’s Bike Day. Watch BMX demos, test your skills, join in the family fun that includes workshops, face painting, clowns and the hobson 47

22 Ōrākei Market – gourmet, artisan, vintage, fresh. Every 2nd Sat from 9am, Ōrākei Community Centre, 156 Kepa Rd ANZACS – A Concert of Commemoration will be held this evening at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, featuring the combined choirs of the Cathedral and the Graduate Choir NZ. iticket.co.nz 25 Today is the 101st Anzac Day. Remember those who served at the 6am dawn service or the 11am civic service at Auckland War Memorial Museum. Or at 9am, join the College Rifles parade from Minto St to Haast St for the club’s annual observance.

See collegerifles.co.nz for details

the cryptic by mĀyĀ

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Party has small drink, misbehaves (4,2) 5 A building feature for revolting chap (6) 9 How we would describe you and me (3,7) 10/12 Auckland suburb with mouth ointment? (8) 11 Most theatrical, really - oddly rural (10) 12 See 10 13 A tree about right for one who perhaps knows too much about too little (6) 16 Freeholders of yore, many liberated (8) 17 Like a line from 7 to 26 (8) 18 Tropical fruit cored for secondary schools (6) 21 They may be given to children at 27 (4) 22 The finer points of the Norwegian coastline? (3,3,4) 24 Stuff Greek letters back (4) 25 Working out, loses energy, gains nothing to remove spirits (10) 26 Brownish-grey May murdered King (6) 27 Letter visible above flower leads to religious holiday (6)

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Accommodate cool (7) Agent knocks back fish (7) Devout, abundant without company (5) The First Victim? (5,4) Adjust extent of backside? (9) Malaysia, hot? Perhaps, but it doesn't reach these peaks (9) Weep, lady, amidst blooms at first sweet, now falling, as Spring comes to Japan (6,7) 13 Plug, and put oil on spoke (9) 14 Primate's aunt with organ arrangement (5-4) 15 Know direction following tiger to school (9) 19 Fords found in polling booth? (7) 20 Accord English books x 7/3 (7) 23 Suitable spot amidst scenic headlands (5)

Set by Māyā. Answers will appear in our next issue (May 2017). Can't wait, or need help? Visit https://thehobsoncrossword.wordpress.com/

MARCH CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ANSWERS Across: 1 Alphabet, 5/11 Tamaki Drive, 9 Entr'acte, 10 Lavabo, 12 Blackstar, 14 Quantum jump, 18 Glove puppet, 21 Radiohead, 23 Kauri, 24 Eolith, 25 Barracks, 26 Eunuch, 27 Escapees Down: 1 Agenda, 2 Patois, 3 Arabesque, 4 Entablature, 6 Alack, 7 Acanthus, 8 Isotropy, 13 Antipodeans, 15 Mutokorea, 16 Aggrieve, 17 Bob Dylan, 19 Quiche, 20 Kisses, 22 Optic

the hobson 48

Outdoor Furniture Manufactured with A-Grade Teak, Reclaimed Teak, Wicker, Concrete, 316 Stainless Steel, Sunbrella, Batyline, and Aluminum

Cabo A-Grade Teak Left and Right Daybed, Luxe Side Tables, Concrete Coffee Table & Kane Drum Side Table

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Antigua Cantilever SunbrellaÂŽ Umbrella Ravoli Rope & A-Grade Teak Dining Chairs

Stunningly curated outdoor furniture from Italy, Belgium, Indonesia, France and the Philippines, available for local and national delivery. Everything arrives fully assembled. SunbrellaÂŽ cushions are free with the purchase of our deep seating pieces as shown. www.designwarehouse.co.nz

09 377 7710

137/147 The Strand, Parnell/Auckland

Toll Free - 0800 111 112

sales@designwarehouse.co.nz

Wholesalers Open Direct To The Public Daily 9:30 - 5:30

NATIONAL TOP PERFORMING LICENSEE 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 Ross Hawkins has been awarded the ‘National Top Performing Licensee’ title for the last four years by New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty. He has also achieved record sales values in both the residential and apartment markets in the Hobson area.

AUCTION IN APRIL

103 The Ford Residences, Parnell Two bedroom plus study apartment with two ensuites and private brick courtyard VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com Contact Ross for further details.

The International, 9 Princes Street Last Heritage Apartment Two bedroom, two bathroom and one car park $1,850,000

Properties SOLD in the last month in the Hobson area SOLD

SOLD

201 The Ford Residences, Parnell

SOLD

6.1 The International, Princes Street

Ross Hawkins +64 274 720 577 ross.hawkins@sothebysrealty.com

nzsothebysrealty.com

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

301 The Ford Residences, Parnell