The hobson june 16

june 2016

welcome to winter • cool locals • travel tales local news, views & informed opinions

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The June Issue, No. 29 8

32

47

the editor’s letter

the expat

the check in

10

Writer and web entreprenuer Louise Chunn returns to her old neighbourhood

Our new travel section, edited by Louise Richardson

34

49

the columnists

12 the village Push-back in Parnell over Housing NZ upzoning plans, the pitch for Council seats steps up, a local board member’s star turn, local board news and more

the heritage

the sound

Penny Lewis reveals the history that lies at the end of Meadowbank Rd

Andrew Dickens may just have a new contender for Greatest Album Of All Time

37

50

the neighbourhood

the bookmark

Remuera Real Estate Register’s Terry King on what’s happening in the local market

Gail Woodward’s June reading selection

News from local MPs David Seymour and Paul Goldsmith

38

the cinema

24

Justine Williams cleans up your bathroom shelf

22 the reps

the suburbanist Tommy Honey isn’t so bouncy about the backyard trampoline

25

the pretty

40 the magpie

the hobson + spicers

This month, she’s spending her time and money close to home

Introducing local consultant Barry Boyden

42

51 The pick of June flicks, by Caitlin McKenna

52 the appetite Chef Sue Fleischl shares two favourite recipes perfectly suited to winter dining

54 the district diary

the second act

Local happenings for June

the plan

Sandy Burgham on the importance of opposite sex friends without benefits

56

The devil is in the missing details around creating more housing, says Hamish Firth

43

Our puzzle, by Māyā. Hint: some of the answers are local (if you’re really stuck, there’s blog help too)

26

27 the investment Warren Couillault’s timely reminder on the benefits of a KiwiSaver plan

30 the hobson + remuera Meet the family team at Browns, and the hospitable partners behind Remuera’s new restaurant, Artusi Cucina

the hobson + prescription skin care Irked by your neck? There’s many treatment options to consider

44 the journey Gerard Murphy takes a reflective trip to the Western Front

Win!

This month we are pleased to be able to give away a copy of Fiona Pardington: A Beautiful Hesitation, a stunning book celebrating 30 years of work by the lauded New Zealand photographer, Fiona Pardington.

Published by Victoria University Press in assocation with the Parnellbased Baker + Douglas imprint, the book has more than 150 images, as well as commissioned essays. To enter, email business@thehobson.co.nz with “Hesitation” in the subject line by Friday June 24.

You can also enter by liking THE HOBSON’s post about this competition and adding your details on our Facebook page. A Beautiful Hesitation, RRP $70, can be ordered via bakerdouglas.co.nz. Smartphone versions are also available.

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1

issue 29, june 2016 Editor & Publisher Kirsty Cameron editor@thehobson.co.nz Art Direction & Production Stephen Penny design@thehobson.co.nz Writers Kirsty Cameron, Penny Lewis, Louise Richardson, Wayne Thompson, Justine Williams Sub-editor Fiona Wilson Social Media Editor Sarah Lynch Columnists & Contributors This Issue Sandy Burgham, Shale Chambers, Warren Couillault, Andrew Dickens, Hamish Firth, Sue Fleischl, Paul Goldsmith, Tommy Honey, Māyā, Caitlin McKenna, David Seymour, Desley Simpson, Fiona Wilson, Gail Woodward Photographers Vanita Andrews, Jono Norton, Stephen Penny, Dominique White Cover A high-reaching moment in last June’s Auckland Grammar School v Saint Kentigern 1st XV rugby match.

Photo by Grammar student Jono Norton.

See The Editor’s Letter, page 8.

THE HOBSON is published 10 times a year by The Hobson Limited, PO Box 37490 Parnell, Auckland 1151. www.thehobson.co.nz F: TheHobsonMagazine T: @thehobson Ideas, suggestions, advertising inquiries welcome. editor@thehobson.co.nz Or via Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheHobsonMagazine THE HOBSON is Remuera, Parnell and Orākei’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

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This publication uses environmentally responsible papers

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ne of the most rewarding elements to putting together a magazine like THE HOBSON is enjoying serendipitous moments. These can be anything from casual conversations in a local cafe that lead to someone knowing someone we’re trying to get hold of, to always-welcome emails about local stories that drop into the inbox just at the right moment. Our cover this month is one we didn’t plan on, until Amanda Harkness, communications manager at Auckland Grammar School, emailed through some dates to include on our calendar page, The District Diary. (We encourage all our schools to keep in touch with this kind of information).

The dates were for the annual 1st XV fixtures against Grammar’s traditional rugby rivals, Saint Kentigern and King’s colleges. I replied, asking if there were any suitable photos from any of these matches last season, as we like to illustrate the Diary too. Amanda responded with three photos. Three great photos, presumably from a sports photographer hired by the school for the occasion. We saw our June cover decision settled with one of these outstanding images. But like the click-bait headline goes, “You Won’t Believe What Happened Next!”

What did happen next was the discovery that the pictures were taken by a Grammar pupil, Jono Norton, who is all of 14 and a fourth former (Year 10). So we have a great cover that fits the season perfectly, and get to present the work of a talented local teen at the same time. For THE HOBSON and our brief to “be local”, it’s a double-dip of serendipity.

Enjoy Jono’s photos, and everything else in this issue,

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

Our cover photographer, Jono Norton, above, took this photo and the cover shot at the Grammar-St Kent’s 1st XV match last June, when he was in the third-form (Year 9). Jono, who lives in Remuera, is part of Grammar’s media team and spends as much time as he can shooting Saturday sport, using either his own Canon EOS 600d or the school’s Canon 5d Mark 111. “I greatly enjoy sports photography, but my passion is film,” he says. “I hope to one day work as a film director. I love the idea of being able to capture someone and their emotions in a photo or film.”

Congratulations to Jenny Leech, who won our May issue super-glam giveaway of a BMW to drive for a weekend, tickets to "Evita" and dinner at Madam Woo, all courtesy of Jerry Clayton BMW. We hope you have a great time redeeming your prize package, Jenny.

In our April issue, Remuera Heritage chair Sue Cooper wrote a tribute to Cora Anderson, a nurse from Remuera who served with distinction in WWI. We’re chuffed by a segue from this story — read “It Takes a Village,” page 34, to see the connection.

Why am I getting THE HOBSON in my letterbox? We launched in September 2013 as your local, neighbourhood magazine — that’s our brief, to be local, inform and connect our community. We distribute to households in Remuera, Parnell and more recently, to part of Orakei. We also put copies into the Remuera and Parnell libraries and various dairies and cafes around the place.

There’s more about us on our website, www.thehobson.co.nz. the hobson 8

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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.sandyburgham.com Remuera resident Warren Couillault (The Investment) is CEO of Richmond Investment Management, a private investment advisory partnership. He is a shareholder in and director of Generate Investment Management Ltd; manager of a registered Kiwisaver scheme and an adviser to S.AG Private. www.richmond.co.nz 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 Sue Fleischl (The Appetite) is a caterer and passionate foodie. She heads up The Great Catering Company, and also manages the heritage Abbeville Estate function venue. www.greatcatering.co.nz, www.abbeville.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.

Dr Amrit Kaur (The Psyche) lives in Meadowbank. She is a NZ-registered clinical psychologist specialising in helping children, families and young adults, and is part of the KidzTherapy practice. Her column appears bi-monthly, alternating with Judi Paape.

Caitlin McKenna (The Cinema) of Remuera is passionate about the cinema — she majored in film, sociology and marketing for her conjoint BCom/BA. Judi Paape (The Teacher) is a parent, grandparent and highly-experienced teacher and junior school principal.

A Parnell resident, her column appears bi-monthly, alternating with Amrit Kaur.

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 10

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the village

Town & Around PARNELL PUSHES BACK ON HOUSING NZ A small group of Parnell residents are challenging a push by the city’s biggest owner of housing to stack more homes in inner-city neighbourhoods.

Housing New Zealand’s move to substantially “upzone” areas of Parnell, including its block of pensioner flats in Avon St, prompted 26 residents to raise more than $13,000 to fund an opposing legal and planning argument.

Their case was presented in late April to the Independent Hearings Panel (IHP) considering the Auckland Unitary Plan, straight after Westmere residents had similarly pushed back on HNZ’s higherdensity proposal for their suburb.

Part of the Parnell case, put by lawyer Simon Pilkinton on behalf of the residents, was that HNZ should be ruled out-of-line, because it had come late in the process with a substantial change.

In its 2014 submissions on the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan (PAUP), HNZ had sought a more intensive zoning for its two-storey block of pensioner flats, bordered by Avon and Stanwell streets.

However, HNZ’s later evidence to the IHP was more aggressive: seeking a wholesale upzoning of Parnell, which could affect thousands of residents.

People in Parnell were not given sufficient opportunity to comment on this, says one of the submitting group, Luke Niue, who is Parnell Community Committee chairman. He says the group is not

concerned about more social housing, because for many years the committee has supported its place in Parnell — HNZ owns substantial holdings on a block bordered by Parnell Rise, Cracroft and Bedford streets.

However, the HNZ proposal raised the potential for the site to become more valuable and sold for redevelopment as tall apartment blocks.

“It concerns us greatly that Auckland Council are now siding with HNZ and considering upzoning,” says Niue.

“However, we are encouraged that panel members listened intently as we raised a number of issues and it’s now up to them to adopt, what we hope, is a balanced, sensitive and pragmatic approach.”

The panel is due to release its final decision on July 27 and the Council to release its decision on August 19 – before the local government elections.

The residents’ submission says it is inappropriate to rezone all the residential land in Parnell, simply based on proximity to shop and bus routes along Gladstone Rd, which was one of the justifications sought by HNZ. Consultant planner David Wren says Parnell has a diverse mix of housing types but the HNZ proposals could, over time, result in no single house development.

“The HNZ proposed zone pattern gives insufficient attention to special/historic character, housing choice and the existing land uses in the areas, and the notified Single House Zoning (one home on a single lot) should be retained in Parnell,” says Wren.

“Significant intensification can occur in Parnell given the large area zoned for terrace housing and apartments and mixed use, under the notified plan.”

Wren says that under the HNZ proposal, residents in the Judges Bay area of Parnell would suffer reduced amenity and greater pressure on facilities such as Parnell District School.

The HNZ proposal picks up a political hot potato which was dropped by Auckland Council in February after strong pressure from residents on the isthmus. The Council withdrew its proposal to double the capacity for new homes over what was in the preliminary plan, or the Draft Auckland Unitary Plan, put out for comment three years ago. u

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the hobson 12

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the village

HNZ came to the panel to pursue those changes in some areas of the city.

The corporation owns 7 per cent of the city’s residential area and 30,800 dwellings, but says that its concerns about the PAUP go beyond the boundaries of its own social housing sites.

Of the total of 65,000 reference instances on the Summary of Requested Decisions Report for the IHP to consider, approximately 7,500 arise from HNZ requests to rezone specific properties, or groups of properties.

HNZ and government departments, with the endorsement of Cabinet, told the IHP that the 2014 plan neither sufficiently provides for the residential growth over 30 years, nor helps the affordability of housing and its shortage.

This could be remedied through appropriate zonings and density provisions in the inner isthmus suburbs, which have high levels of supporting amenities and infrastructure.

Responding to questions from THE HOBSON, HNZ acting general manager, asset development, Patrick Dougherty, says it acted with integrity and good faith in the plan process.

HNZ owns 49 parcels of land within the Parnell and Remuera areas, he says.

Its social housing land in Avon/Stanwell streets was proposed by Council to be zoned Mixed Housing Urban, but HNZ proposed the site be rezoned to Terraced Housing and Apartment Buildings zone – the same as its site in Cracroft/Bedford streets.

Dougherty says any resource consents for redevelopments which met Unitary Plan rules would be processed by council without statutory notification being required.

There are no submissions by HNZ to upzone its Remuera holdings. Remuera Residents Association chair Iain Valentine says of the 20 properties or small groups of properties the agency owns scattered across the suburb, that HNZ has requested they retain the “Mixed Housing Urban” zoning, in line with the Draft Plan.

— Wayne Thompson p

WAITEMATA WARMS UP Nominations are open for the upcoming Auckland Council elections in October, and amongst the new contenders for a Council seat is two-term Waitematā Local Board member, Rob Thomas. Thomas will stand as an independent for the Waitematā and Gulf ward seat, against incumbent Mike Lee, and the independent/Nationalapproved candidate Bill Ralston.

Thomas’s newly-announced campaign platform is for a green, tech-centric city. He’s promoting electric public transport, planting programs via local boards and better investment strategies for Council.

“The Council needs fresh thinking and an independent voice for our community,” says Thomas, above. “We need to preserve our history but we can’t rely on the ideas of the past. We have to look forward and find new ideas to take this city forward.”

“It has been a great pleasure to represent our community on the Waitematā Local Board but now is the time for a major sea change.

Auckland faces a bright and healthier future which involves a focus on the environment, technology, and a sustainable investment plan in transport and housing.” p

MADAME PRESIDENT The Rotary Club of Parnell has elected Amanda Morrison as its new president, replacing Peter Barron, whose term ends next month. The club, which has around 50 members and a 50/50 gender split, has had female presidents previously, but Morrison, in her early thirties, is the youngest to hold the office. The Barfoot and Thompson Parnell agent joined Parnell Rotary three years ago.

“I joined because my dad, Bradley Morrison, was in Rotary. He belonged to the St Johns’ club for about 20 years. As kids, we’d go along to Christmas things and kids events they’d put on. I also liked

the hobson 14

the fact that they just gave back to the community, society, and life in general. In fact, I’m still friends with girls I met through our dads being in Rotary together.”

When Morrison, pictured above in Parnell’s Heard Park, returned from an OE, she decided to join up herself.

“I thought I need to be able to give back, I need to do something that's outside of myself, and to meet some new people.

“We’ve got a really good balance,” says Morrison of the Parnell chapter. “The great thing about our club is that we’ve got a lot of people with huge skill sets, and very well connected in the business world, so they’re able to offer back a lot of support to a lot of different people.

“It's really enjoyable. We have a lot of laughs. It’s a relaxed, fun, caring, club that is very enthusiastic about helping the community.”

Parnell Rotary’s projects include an annual golf day tournament, which raises $140,000 for Alzheimers research, and local projects, including working with other service groups to support the Salvation Army lodges in Newmarket, and helping Plunket make the most of their Council-owned building on Parnell Rd. “We do quite a few working bees there, just things to help, whether it’s in the garden or fencing. We painted the inside, and put some new heaters in for the winter. Just little things.”

The club taps connections to offer practical help where they can.

Computers were recently sourced for one of the Salvation Army properties to allow residents to access work opportunities, and a supply of nappies was found for babies who come into the Sallies’ care. Right now the club is looking for new carpet for a project.

As president, Morrison is charged with bringing in new members.

“We don’t need to be ginormous, but we’re always trying to grow, because people naturally drop off, they move out of town or whatever it may be. So we need to be keeping up with new members coming in, and also making the public more aware of what we do within the community. If anybody does have something that they think that Rotary could help them with, let us know.”

the village Parnell Rotary holds a breakfast meeting, with a guest speaker, every Wednesday at 7am at the Quality Hotel, Gladstone Rd (the Barrycourt). New members welcome. For information, call Amanda on 021 174 5928. p

BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED STREETS THE HOBSON’s planning writer, Hamish Firth, has been working with Parnell residents seeking to have Auckland Transport consider alternative options to an overbridge linking Sarawia St with Parnell Rd, via Cowie St. Here’s an update.

The hearing for the proposed Cowie St rail overbridge was held at the Town Hall in late April. The proposal by Auckland Transport to replace the level crossing at Sarawia St with a 200m road and pedestrian bridge over the railway, connecting to Cowie St, has been years in the making. The Cowie St Residents’ Association presented to the Independent Commissioners on matters such as traffic and amenity, but most importantly that there was a viable alternative option, being an underpass linking Sarawia St to Laxon Tce. The Sarawia level crossing is the busiest in New Zealand and it is expected with timetable changes that this will only get busier. The rail experts predict that at peak times the road will be blocked for up to 40 minutes per hour. In this regard the level crossing has to be removed. The Cowie St Residents’ Association put forward the alternative in a very professional manner.

The hearing was closed and a decision will be made in late May. Regretfully, I expect that the decision will be in favour of Auckland Transport and an overbridge linking to Cowie St will be approved.

The biggest issue from there will be the cost of building the proposal.

We have been advised that the costings to date [figures up to $10m have been suggested] are indicative only. p

SCHEDULED TREES FACE CHALLENGE The Parnell Community Committee and Parnell Heritage are seeking to retain a scheduled pohutukawa on St Stephens Ave, after a notified application to remove both it and an English oak tree. Both trees are scheduled under the District Plan for visual amenity value.

Resident Connel McLaren has applied to have the trees removed from his property opposite the school, citing disease and safety

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concerns, and damage to a tennis court from the roots. As replacements, the McLarens have committed to plant two mature specimen trees on the berm, which will ultimately fill the void left by the current trees removal. “Fundamentally the trees are in a state of decline,” says McLaren. “The pohutukawa has a split trunk, it’s rotting in the split and it’s leaning over the drop-off for the school crossing.”

Parnell Community Committee chair Luke Niue says the group’s submission notes that the applicant’s and Council’s aborists have differing views on the health of the oak, and asks that further assessment be done. PCC also believes the removal of the trees will have an adverse amenity impact.

In Orākei, pohutukawa threatened with removal in the redesign of the intersection of Ngapipi Rd and Tamaki Dr have been spared.

Auckland Transport was faced with the possibility of taking out up to five pohutukawa on Ngapipi, but at the urging of the Orākei Local Board, has come up with a solution which allows the works to proceed without affecting the trees, says an OLB spokesperson. p

EGGS CUTS THE RIBBON

ASK KAREN

Every month local real estate expert Karen Moore answers your questions, so if you are looking for enlightenment, clarity or some simple advice, then email Karen at the Mike Pero Real Estate Remuera office.

Is Auckland property overcooked?

I own a large, nearly mortgage-free house on the northern slopes and am weighing up my options.

We’re not seeing interest rates changing any time soon. What should I do?

Firstly, I do not believe the market is overcooked. It is just catching up, further fuelled by under-supply.

Auckland truly is one of the world’s most livable cities.

Global celebrities sing our praises, Lonely Planet and Conde Nast Traveller constantly rate us in the top 5 -10 destinations and our multi-cultural diversity makes us a standout. Cheaper, faster air travel to everywhere, plus the ability to work from home mean we’re no longer the best-kept secret at the bottom of the world.

Add to this, issues in Europe and the Americas may well see an influx of buyers that will make recent invasions look small. Recently, we had as just about as many keen bidders from America and Europe on the phone as we had in the auction room!

What do I do, then?

Whatever suits you. Ride the wave or maybe get further ahead. We are seeing many eastern suburbs homeowners doing this by releasing equity or downsizing to fund beach houses or help children or parents into housing. There are myriad safe, effective ways to create trusts, loans or gifting that allow you to grow your portfolio, while at the same time helping family on to the property ladder before it gets lifted up!

Happy house hunting!

Epsom Girls Grammar School has formally opened its Joyce Fisher Sports Centre. Named for Joyce, Lady Fisher (nee Paykel), the Joyce Fisher Charitable Trust supports young New Zealanders through education and leadership. The ribbon was was cut by Minister for Youth and Associate Minister for Education, Nikki Kaye, and EGGS patron and old girl, Susan, Lady Satyanand. They are pictured with, from left, Joyce Fisher trustees Robert Lerner and Chris Paykel, school board chair Gerald Young, Barfoot and Thompson’s Peter Thompson, and principal Lorraine Pound.

Pound described the facility as a “milestone in the school’s progressive development. It is fundamental for modern learning to have facilities that meet the needs of young women.”

The centre includes international size courts and stadium seating, fitness centre, dance studio, lecture rooms and event space. p

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.

karen.moore@mikepero.com • 027 279 5983 libby.jarvis@mikepero.com • 0274 854 151

279 Remuera Road • 09 524 4393 www.remuera.mikepero.com

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Licensed REAA (2008)

the village

SHOOTING TO SUCCESS Auckland artist Catherine Carter is celebrating her selection as a finalist for the second year in a row in Sydney’s prestigious HeadOn photo festival.

Last year, Carter’s work, Idya #2, was a finalist in the portraiture section, and this year, Ophelia was selected (Carter is pictured above at the exhibition, with Ophelia).

“There’s no doubt that being part of the HeadOn Festival has paid dividends,” says Carter, a 2014 Wallace Art Awards finalist.

“Competitions and festivals are a great way to put forward new work and share in a global conversation.”

Based on her inclusion in the 2015 festival, Carter was selected as the sole New Zealander in “Out from Downunder & Beyond: Fine Art from Australia and New Zealand”, now showing at the Agora Gallery in Chelsea, New York. Her work will also be on show in Paris this month, after a gallery director saw HeadOn last year.

Carter is not the only member of her family to achieve international success: one of her four brothers is Olympic gold medalist, triathlete Hamish Carter.

Initially a scientist, Carter recalls sometimes being excused from classes at Dio to help work on sets for plays and school productions.

“I spent all my spare hours drawing and painting and making jewellery,” she says. “In my teenage years and twenties, taking photos was a hobby.” A graduate program followed by a masters in fine art at AUT saw her passion develop further and she now works exclusively as an artist.

Carter is represented by Parnell’s Antoinette Godkin Gallery, apartment Y30/32 York St. antoinettegodkin.co.nz p

AN EXTRA ROLE If you’ve seen New Zelaland’s newest favourite film, The Hunt for the Wilderpeople (and if you haven’t, do, it’s very good), you will recall a funeral scene. The camera pans around a small group of mourners, returning to them a few times during the scene.

If one of the mourners looks familiar from around this part of town, she is. By day — and many nights and weekends — Kate Cooke is a member of the Orākei Local Board. Her portfolio of responsibilities includes being the board’s lead on arts and culture facilities and initiatives, and events.

Cooke puts her arts interests to use too from time to time in local film and TV productions, including that funeral scene in Wilderpeople, the TV series 800 Words, various commercials and a named role on Shortland Street.

“I am not an actor, have never aspired to be,” she told THE HOBSON. “I just fell into doing this work as a young mum. It has taken me to many interesting filming locations in and out of Auckland.

“I have been a featured extra nurse, called Robyn, on Shortland Street for many years, sometimes with dialogue.”

Cooke filmed her Wilderpeople scene about a year ago at an Auckland church. “It is a great movie, but my role in it is so small. I am surprised at the number of people who have recognised me – I didn’t expect that at all. People do recognise me from Shortland Street too – it’s good to know people are still watching this longrunning show.”

Watch out for Cooke too in the upcoming TVNZ drama, Dirty Laundry.

“I’ve enjoyed them all and don’t really have a favourite, although I continue to enjoy filming Shortland Street, which is at a fast pace to accommodate a show screening five nights a week.”

Cooke was not able to confirm whether she would be standing for re-election for the OLB at the upcoming local body elections. p

the hobson 18

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the village

waitemata¯ Local Board

P

arnell is set to change in the coming months; the long-awaited train station will soon bring more visitors to the area, while potentially also attracting an increase in the number of commuters parking their cars in the streets.

Parking is a growing problem for the inner suburbs as those who live outside the city centre park close to train or bus stops, or within walking distance. While driving and parking closer to work or public transport is a solution to traffic issues for some, it can create havoc for inner city residents, who rely on on-street parking – a necessity in Parnell, where many homes don’t have space for off-street parking.

I live in Freemans Bay and the street parking all but disappears before 8am. After extensive local consultation and support Freemans Bay is next month about to have introduced a residential parking zone, prioritising parking for residents in their suburban streets and joining St Mary’s Bay with its scheme.

We are now working with Auckland Transport as they begin a public consultation and research on parking issues in Parnell, with a view to finding the best parking solutions. They will be talking with local businesses and residents as well as those who visit the area. Resident parking allowances will be discussed, as well as paid parking options and historical parking behaviours reviewed. I hope that the community gets behind this consultation and provides the information that Auckland Transport needs to find a solution that works for the community, while still encouraging visitors to the area, which local businesses rely on.

Within town centres, Auckland Transport is increasingly shifting to a flexible, demand-based approach to on-street parking. By removing time limits and introducing paid parking, demand can be managed through price. Customers should always be able to find available parking and will have flexibility on how long they can stay. Such a scheme is currently proposed for Ponsonby town centre.

The residential parking zone in Freemans Bay has a two-hour parking time-

restriction (P120) that applies Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. Residents and businesses within the zone can apply for permits and coupons that give exemption from the time-restriction.

78 per cent of respondents living within the proposed zone area supported or strongly supported the proposal, and only 16 per cent opposed or strongly opposed. Respondents felt that the scheme would free up parking for themselves, visitors and tradespeople.

They also felt that the proposal recognised the needs of the local community. Now it’s Parnell’s turn to have their say.

Now for something a little more fun, I am very pleased to share information about POP, the Waitematā Local Board’s art project which brings art to the community. With the help of Auckland Council, this year POP will expand beyond Waitematā’s boundaries, for the first time bringing this special brand of creativity as far as New Lynn and the North Shore.

Parnell, Newmarket and inner city residents will have already been treated to an array of POP installations, including the well-received POP-Up Stories – where Auckland Central Library librarians read short stories by celebrated New Zealand authors, while travelling on the Inner Link bus (see photo). With only a month of the programme still to run (it began in April) THE HOBSON’s readers can look forward to POP Gardens — movable tea gardens — along Parnell Rise/Parnell Rd early this month, which will bring a bit of colour and fun to the neighbourhood for our early winter days.

— Shale Chambers, chair, Waitematā Local Board

Thinking about advertising?

Hobson is great for staying connected to the local community, and it also gives us the perfect target market “for The our business. Clients mention they have seen our adverts in The Hobson, which is a great way to measure the value of our investment. ” Beth Redmond Smith, Marketing Manager, Artisan Flooring happy with the level and calibre of enquiry that our advertising in The Hobson has generated. I track “ourI'mROIvery carefully and will continue to support this publication in 2016. That says it all. ” Kerry Dunphy, Head of Marketing, Lumino The Dentists

¯ Local Board Orakei

W

hen the Orākei Local Board advocated for our community over fairness around the Auckland Unitary Plan decision-making, we were often touted by media and others as NIMBYs (Not In My Backyard), not wanting intensification in our area.

However, the facts speak to a different story.

I have analysed the building consent data collected by Auckland Council since amalgamation in 2010, and checked this with Council staff, who have verified it. In terms of new building consents for all 21 local boards, the Orākei Local Board had the eighth highest for number of consents granted, and was sixth highest for the number of consents for residential dwellings.

Council records show that the local board areas with the greatest number of building consents granted are those with greenfields sites, such as Upper Harbour, Hibiscus and Bays, Rodney, Papakura and Franklin. In the urban area, the Orākei ward has taken more than its fair share of intensification in the last five years. For the central isthmus alone — the former Auckland City Council area — the Orākei Local Board has had the highest number of residential building consents granted over the last five years.

Looking to the future, there are also seven fast-tracked housing developments (SHAs) in the Orākei ward, which have been approved to deliver hundreds of new residential properties. These are in addition to other infill that will occur as people individually subdivide their properties.

So what is the current state of our below the ground infrastructure, and is it well placed to cater for both existing and current growth?

The ward contains some of Auckland’s oldest suburbs, and some of our oldest infrastructure particularly in stormwater. In addition, we all have become far more aware of the environmental

impacts associated with having stormwater exit into our waterways such as Orākei Basin and Hobson Bay. You may have noticed signage at the bottom of Bassett Rd regarding a Council stormwater project. These works have benefitted a number of properties by reducing the flood risks to their homes. It has also had additional benefits of improving land stability and reducing erosion risks to other properties Advocating for anything “below the ground” is always difficult, as it’s very expensive and doesn’t seem to get prioritised as easily as other more “visual” projects Those who live, or have lived, around Orākei Basin will have noticed how siltation has gradually built up within the basin over the years. This has been caused by decades of runoff from nearby roads and properties, along with damage from increased intensification in the immediate vacinity. Currently drains in this area do not have treatment devices such as filters, and so there is a long-term risk to wading birds such as pukekos, and the ecological makeup of the tributaries that flow into the basin, if we do not change our behaviour. Simply washing your car at home can add to the layers of oil and detergent entering our waterways.

Council is gradually working to address the separation of stormwater and wastewater as a priority.

Watercare has invested in Remuera — one of the most significant local wastewater upgrades was the completion of the $118 million tunnel in 2009, which certainly significantly reduced overflows to Hobson Bay and prepared Remuera for its growth and intensification. But we still have an awfully long way to go to fully futureproof us all for the expected growth in our ward.

On positive notes, the Board has had advice that the original design for the water access pontoon for Hobson Bay would impede stormwater flow during low tide conditions. I am pleased to advise we have altered the design of our pontoon and relocated this slightly east of the original site, to ensure it still works for users and does not affect water flows. We are still on track to have this pontoon built this year.

Finally our requested new path around Martyn Wilson Field is complete, and a welcome addition for locals who want to access the Orākei Station or walkway behind Saint Kentigern Boys’ School via a sealed path. It is our eighth perimeter path around a park completed this term (two more to go) and helps ensure our open space is maximised in a way that benefits multiple users.

— Desley Simpson, chair, Orākei Local Board

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ANSWERS (page 56) Across: 1 Soccer practice, 9 Insider, 10 Extreme, 11 Taffetas, 12 Terror, 14 Ulnas, 15 Ozone hole, 17 Hokeyness, 19 Cable, 21 Ethics, 23/22 Hibiscus coast, 25 Trojans, 26 Reallow, 27 Tatterdemalion. Down: Saint Cuthberts, 2/6 Cosi fan tutte, 3 Endlessly, 4 Pardalotes, 5 Awed, 7 Cheerio, 8 George Gershwin, 13 Bonsai tree, 16 Enchilada, 18 Kohuora, 20 Bacilli, 24 Tsar.

the hobson 21

the reps

DAVID SEYMOUR

A

s an MP who regularly door-knocks cyclists in the Epsom electorate, I’m glad to have recently tasted life as a two-wheeled Aucklander.

When a local cycle dealer suggested I borrow an electric bike, I took the opportunity, leaving my mobile billboard Holden and my snarlingly beautiful British sports car in the garage.

From afar it looked like any other bike, but the battery and compact motor hidden in the front wheel hub allowed me to keep up with traffic and climb Parnell Rise without breaking too much of a sweat.

Over the four days I rode 100 km, making all my MP and personal engagements. By the end of it I planned to figure out if cycling actually worked as daily transport, and whether electric bikes are the game-breaker they've been reported as recently.

I caught up with Cameron Brewer at Alexandra Park’s sod turning, cycled to Mt Wellington’s World TV studio, rode over to a Mt Eden festival, went to social events in the city, and took trips from home in Remuera to the Newmarket electorate office and back, leaving the bike on its charger overnight. Out of sheer luck it didn’t rain once.

The verdict? I'm far from fit but it's seriously fast — you can pedal as well as rely on the power to drive the wheels. A friend beat me (driving) from Federal St to Remuera by one minute.

Had there been traffic, I would have won.

I thought I might become a convert to cycleways, but found that I was usually going somewhere where there wasn't one.

Unless practically every street had a cycleway, I'm not sure they would make a lot of difference for most trips.

Buses are very annoying when you’re on two wheels.

The fitness aspect (moderate on an e-bike) is incredible,

with a constant endorphin high.

It was a pretty light four days, schedule-wise – I’m not sure if the bike would have been a strength or weakness on busier days.

E-bikes are very cool but still very expensive – fortunately that will change as with most electrical technology. Altogether, it’s a great way to get around, so long as it doesn't rain.

Finally, it became obvious how much my (and other cyclists’) safety depended on the kindness of the drivers around me.

Fear of motorists likely contributes to the sadly low number of students cycling to the Epsom electorate’s many schools.

Options like e-bikes might spur a few more on, and cycle lanes can make certain routes safer, but ultimately cyclists (especially beginners and school kids) rely on the respect of drivers to stay safe.

We have too much school traffic here already. Let’s all make sure students feel welcomed on their bicycles, because cycling is not only good for kids’ physical health – a bit less congestion would help all of our mental health.

David Seymour is the MP for Epsom.

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PAUL GOLDSMITH

R

ecently I went along to a Parliamentary breakfast held by the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation (NZBF). I didn’t know too much about it, other than that my friend and wellknown Remuera resident Dame Rosie Horton was a patron, and had travelled to the capital to participate.

She has made such a great contribution to so many worthy causes that I’ll always try to support anything in which she is involved. The event, also featuring the Foundation’s ambassador Lorraine Downes, had more style than anything I’m used to as Minister of Commerce.

Of course, as a son, a husband and a father of girls, I have as much interest as anyone in learning about the NZBF’s work and about the progress we’ve made in battling breast cancer, which still claims more than 600 Kiwi women each year. We’ve made good progress in prevention through extended free national breast screening, as well as improved treatment. And there’s still much to do.

More often than not, discussion about improved health outcomes ends up with a desire for increased investment. I’ve never met anyone who isn’t interested in having access to the latest treatments, if they or someone they love falls ill. These have to be paid for. As our economy grows stronger, we can afford more of the latest innovations the world has to offer.

Our most recent announcement will see an extra $124 million invested in Pharmac over the next four years. Pharmac’s budget for 2016/17 will be a record $850 million.

This increase in funding will allow the government agency to provide more New Zealanders with access to new medicines. It will also provide Pharmac with more options on new medicines it can fund.

One of the drugs Pharmac intends to fund is Opdivo, a drug used to treat advanced melanoma. New Zealand currently has the highest rate of melanoma in the world, it’s a serious illness that affects about 350 people each year.

Other drugs to be funded include treatments for hepatitis C. We have the prospect of a major advancement in the treatment of hepatitis C, with new drugs offering cure rates of more than 90 per cent.

Last year more than 70,000 New Zealanders benefited from 41 new and widened-access medicines.

This year’s budget, Bill English’s eighth, has at its heart a focus on the economy. As ever, the economic and social sides of our agenda are closely linked. A strong economy means a strong health system.

Paul Goldsmith is a list MP based in Epsom and Minister for Commerce and Consumer Affairs

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the suburbanist

The Bounce Back

W

ith news that Dylan Schmidt is set to compete at the Rio Olympics for New Zealand in trampolining, a new alternative to becoming an All Black has opened up for Kiwi kids. Schmidt finished second at a test event in Rio to book his spot; no Kiwi competitor has made the Olympic field since trampolining joined the gymnastics programme in Sydney in 2000.

Who would have thought that bouncing in the backyard could lead to a podium? Who among us has not – on their own, a friend’s, a neighbour’s trampoline – idled away a sunny afternoon, landed too hard, got jammed in the springs? Sprained a wrist? Broken an arm?

There are benefits and risks associated with trampolining and, in the modern age, both are readily addressed. When used regularly, studies have shown that jumping on trampolines offers many benefits including teaching persistence (hang in till you master that flip), improving self-esteem, developing motor skills, learning success, improving flexibility and posture. Try getting all that out of an iPad or a remote. Trampolining is a great cardiovascular workout and is essentially exercise in disguise. Exercise, like most things that are good for kids, is best delivered by stealth.

However, when it comes to trampolining, cynics abound. Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), realising the widespread growth in the activity, published a policy statement on the use of trampolines in childhood and adolescence. But instead of applauding the activity, it strongly discouraged their home use, issuing an eight-page policy statement. Noting that the number of trampoline injuries hovers between 30 and 40 per 100,000 (people, not trampolines), they say that the risk of fractures and head, neck and spine injuries makes trampolining suitable only for structured training settings. Because there’s nothing we love more than structured settings for free play.

In the UK, data on trampolining injuries is not routinely collected, but studies from A&E departments show injuries are not uncommon.

One study over five months found 131 injuries in children, of which a third were fractures. Other injuries included sprains and cuts.

The average age of the child was eight-years-old, and there were an average of 2.7 children on the equipment at the time of the accidents.

Therein, perhaps, lies the problem. If the average number on the

trampoline is 2.7 – and for a lot of the time, one can assume that there is only one – some of those in the groups of 6-8 need to climb off and wait a bit. More than two-thirds of injuries happen when there is more than one person on the tramp. The lightest person is five times more likely to get hurt than anyone else, so let the little guy have his turn, on his own, with supervision.

The risk factors are clear but the solutions, not so. The introduction of safety nets has made little difference, because people don't assemble them properly — the AAP warns that such measures give a false sense of security. Children under five are lighter and have less coordination to help them control landings, so have higher risk of fractures.

The most serious injuries are head injuries from falls, or damage to the spinal cord in the neck from failed somersaults, or over-bending or over-extending the neck.

A safety net can’t replace active adult supervision. Children should be encouraged to bounce in the middle of the tramp, not jump off and never to climb underneath it. Trampolines should also be positioned properly – never on hard surfaces, or near trees or fences.

If all this makes you nervous (and it should), you can always outsource your children’s fun. In 2013, the first trampoline park opened in Auckland and now they are popping up faster than Carl’s Jrs. There are close to 20 across the region, offering an array of rooms bedecked with trampolines with appropriate cushioning in between. Supervision, like most activities with children, is best done from the middle distance, preferably with your eyes focused on your phone, lifting your head occasionally for an environmental scan.

So, do you recreate the free-range, high-risk, idyll of your childhood and erect an unscreened tramp in your backyard, deposit the children outside at 9am, draw the curtains and catch up on Game of Thrones? Perhaps you would prefer monthly safety training meetings with your child once they turn three, and only ever take them to indoor playgrounds with the best reviews. And remembering of course that if you work from home, your entire property may be deemed a workplace, and the recent health and safety legislation may require you to have safety policies in place and you will be obliged to report all accidents and any near misses.

Enjoy! — Tommy Honey

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the hobson + spicers

Thinking about your financial freedom?

Introducing Barry Boyden, a Hobson area local and authorised financial adviser Barry, what’s your professional background? I worked in finance in London for four years as a financial analyst after finishing a double degree at Otago University. I started my NZ banking career with the ANZ Commercial Bank in 2007, and in 2011 became an Authorised Financial Adviser (AFA) with BNZ Private Bank. I’ve been with Spicers since the beginning of this year as a financial adviser, managing a portfolio of client investments and helping them achieve their financial freedom, whatever that may be for them.

What is your favourite part of being a financial adviser?

The role suits me perfectly as to be a successful adviser, you need to enjoy building a relationship based on trust, which means listening, and understanding what people feel is most important. It’s a very satisfying role to be able to work with local, hard-working Kiwis and explore different options that will help them reach their financial goals. My clients are typically too busy to be regularly researching which fund managers to invest in, or establishing accurate projections on what they will have in retirement.

Investments can be very technical and confusing. How do you choose what is best? It all starts with individual preferences — I need to understand the person and also the goals we are trying to achieve. It is such a personal business and when it comes to constructing a portfolio, choosing what is best is different for every client. New Zealand has some fantastic fund managers with the likes of Devon, Harbour, Mint and Salt, but I feel it’s important to diversify, and will often use a selection of fund managers based abroad who have been researched by our

investment team. Only choosing fund managers that have been researched in detail, and monitored continuously, allows me to have confidence in their quality. Most importantly, my clients need to feel comfortable with the selections, and ensure that the planning will reach their goals.

What should a client expect from their financial adviser?

Good question. The first point is to understand the value of advice, and what the role of the adviser is. My role is to work with my clients to help them achieve their financial objectives. I have met many people who have an adviser, but are not on track to meet their end goal — they were advised on an investment which historically performed well, but haven’t kept up-to-date with the review meetings and the planning required to meet that goal. My expertise is advice, quality diversified portfolio construction, risk management, and service second to none.

Where are you located? I’m a local resident here in Remuera.

My wife Kate owns Maman boutique in Remuera with her sister Emma. Our six-year-old, George, goes to Victoria Ave school and Charlie, who’s four, is at Cluny kindy. I’m also involved as a coach at Grammar Juniors rugby club. Spicers has a CBD office, but I often meet clients at their own office or home. The best thing to do is to contact me and arrange a time to meet.

I work on a no-obligation basis, and if I can provide a clear advantage to your financial freedom, we can go from there.

Contact Barry on 021 955 050, or barry.boyden@spicers.co.nz www.spicers.co.nz A disclosure statement is available on request, free of charge.

the plan

More than Just about Land

J

ust when you thought you could not read another article on Auckland’s housing market, another one appears. Headlines scream day in and day out about the issue, and even how this “disease” is spreading to the regions. A land tax is proposed, as are a number of other supposed dampeners. None of which will work.

This is an issue of supply and demand. Economics 101. I can hear all of you learned readers saying, “The solution is simple – increase the supply, roll out subdivisions and let’s join Long Bay to Orewa, and Manurewa to Clevedon, problem solved, end of story”.

Sadly, the solution to increasing the supply of land is much more complex, but solvable if the powers-that-be actually give it real thought.

Some facts and figures: In 1973, the number of houses consented was 38,000. In 2014 that number was 24,700. Yet our population has grown by 50 per cent.

The under-supply of housing in Auckland is most extreme, where house prices are increasing by over 15 per cent per year.

The major problem is escalating land costs, linked with too few houses being built. Auckland Council is going through the process of getting a new district plan (the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan, or PAUP) operative, with an aim for it to come later this year.

In theory this will allow for more land supply, both greenfield development and intensification in strategic locations, allowing intensity by going up into the sky.

On paper this sounds great. However, the devil is in the detail.

We have started reading the new PAUP rules, and while they give additional intensification with one hand, they make it very hard to achieve it economically with the other, as there are so many more matters that need to be included. It’s as if there will be more housing, but it will cost more, so the status quo remains in terms of house prices.

There is also a culture problem. Our company has just finished attending wall-to-wall hearings on the PAUP, and each and every time we made a suggestion to the Independent Hearing Panel to

• •

provide for additional housing, it was met with a resounding “NO” from the Council officer in attendance. There were times when the IHP members would ask why such logic was being applied.

On one occasion when the Council officer had no further answer, he merely said “that is what I have been instructed to say”. It’s as if all additional development is bad and must be stopped at all costs.

It is like the answer we always get out of Council. There is a disjunct in reality between planning rules and economics. If development is not economic, then nothing will happen.

Then you get the absurd reality which is the Karaka or Hingaia area. We have been engaged to oversee a small part (about 300 houses) out of a proposed development of 1500-plus houses. A density of one house per 300m2. While I applaud the increase in supply of housing, it seems ad hoc. There does not seem to be any provision for new schools, or wider roads, or a “village” and working zone to allow the people who move here to work and play close by. I can only see the queue on the Southern Motorway getting longer and starting earlier.

We need to plan, perhaps even be bold and create larger scale and more intense (at the centre) areas like is happening in Hobsonville. Areas where a medical centre and the like can develop and create work opportunities. Almost like satellite cities, where people do not have to travel into the city or Penrose to get to work every day. And if they do, there is point to point public transport.

I see very little coordination with the likes of Watercare and Auckland Transport.

In my mind the solution to supply is not just more land. It is a coordinated and planned approach at high level to ensure that we are not just providing more houses, and not thinking about the notion that people have to live, work and play. And the car does not have to be the solution if we can provide for compact satellite ‘cities’ within the Auckland region. If we are expected to grow by the size of Taupo each year, then let’s look at building a few Taupo’s, so that people can live local.

— Hamish Firth

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the investment

The Right KiwiSaver Opportunity

J

une 30 is an important day for KiwiSavers as that is when they qualify (after meeting certain conditions) to receive up to $521 from the Government – essentially for free! I will come back to how you can qualify for this contribution to your KiwiSaver, and what you need to do in order to receive it. In the meantime, I want to outline why it is exceedingly important to have your KiwiSaver account invested the right way. Right versus wrong could earn you hundreds of thousands of dollars more by the time you come to retire.

Let’s look at hypothetical “Sally” as an example. Sally is aged 30, earning an annual gross salary of $55,000 and already has a KiwiSaver balance of $9,500. She remains employed and contributing 3 per cent of her before-tax pay until she reaches retirement at age 65. In her first year of earning her $55,000 salary, Sally’s 3 per cent contributions will work out to be $32 per week. Her salary is assumed to grow by 3 per cent per annum, and inflation is assumed to average 2 per cent per annum. (Note Sally’s employer’s contributions are net of Employer Superannuation Contribution Tax).

Now depending on the type of KiwiSaver scheme into which Sally invests, her account balance upon retirement will likely vary greatly. The typical range of KiwiSaver schemes allow for three differing investment strategies, each of which will suit different people at different stages of their lives: “conservative” (which has a strong bias towards relatively lower risk investments like government or corporate bonds), “balanced” (some bonds and some growth investments like equities) and “growth” (strong bias towards relatively higher growth investments).

Over time it is expected, and generally observed, that conservative strategies will generate relatively lower returns (but with lower risk) than expected returns from growth strategies.

Using the actual five-year annual-average sector returns (sourced from sorted.org.nz to 30 June 2015) of 5.01 per cent for conservative strategies, 6.93 per cent from balanced and 8.55 per cent from growth over the life of Sally’s contributing to KiwiSaver, what

would be the range of her account balances on retirement?

Well, it’s a wide range: if Sally were to choose an average conservative KiwiSaver fund, her retirement balance (using the above assumptions and rates of return) would be $325,482. An average balanced fund would see $470,693, while an average growth fund would generate a balance of $658,169. That’s a whopping $330k-plus extra from the growth fund, which is a significant additional amount of retirement funds by anyone’s reasoning.

What Sally’s example indicates is the importance of choosing the right KiwiSaver strategy at the right time in your life. While Sally is young, she has a lot of time to contribute to her KiwiSaver account, and a lot of time to enjoy compounding returns, so should probably consider a more growth-oriented KiwiSaver strategy. As we see, the difference at the end is substantial. So get the right advice to make sure your KiwiSaver is invested the right way for you — it’s worth it.

Now back to June 30. Each year, the government contributes 50 cents for every dollar we put into KiwiSaver, up to a maximum of $521. Theoretically this is to help cover the administration cost of your account. So if you have contributed $1043 or more throughout the year to June 30 — or a touch more than $20 per week — you will receive a further $521. That equates to as much as a 50 per cent return, guaranteed, risk-free! Not bad. So make sure you have made the minimum $1043 contribution (you can make a one-off top-up)

by June 30. — Warren Couillault Disclaimer: Warren is a director of Generate Investment Management Ltd, the manager of the Generate KiwiSaver Scheme. The five year average returns are used for illustrative purposes only. The returns are subject to investment and other risks (including potential losses). No returns are guaranteed or assured, and returns can at times be negative, particularly given the length of the investment period shown in the illustration. Past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future performance and returns over different periods may differ.

the hobson 27

Simply Matching Pe

www.remuerareale

upled d honesty, co n a n o ti a ic n u - that was my ourtesy, comm c is s d e ly n a n io a h s d a n -f a Good old nowledge professional k , te a -d o -t p u with iana. ith Terry and D w e c n e ri e p oor. x e through the d le p o e p f o t lo my uld get a ld me they wo yer that suited u to b ts e n th e g d a n r fi e ld Oth y wou d with na told me the um of fuss an im in m e th Terry and Dia h it ,w what they did house. That’s r privacy. e respect for ou ple; they are th o e p e th d n a e houses r area, both th u o w o n k y e h T for this area. perfect agents

e Wendy Hawk t 5A Poto Stree 6 March 201

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

Telephone: 0

Remuera Real Estate Register

eople with Property

estateregister.co.nz

Proving to be the best way to buy and sell local property Remuera’s only “specialists”

We are Remuera’s only specialist real estate company - we KNOW Remuera. More and more people who wish to buy homes in Remuera come to us first. We take a brief of their requirements, and enter them onto our Register.

Our Register of Remuera buyers

Our Register of Remuera buyers, and their needs, means that we can directly match them to properties that we list. The result is quite often an almost immediate sale.

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; 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.

We prefer to sell by price

We take responsibility for setting a property’s value - we agree values and selling prices with our vendors, and price properties accordingly. This makes it easier for buyers. They know from the beginning whether a house is within their budget. The majority of our sales have been for the agreed asking price, or close to it.

We form real relationships

We form real relationships with our buyers and sellers, and this makes a tremendous difference in understanding needs and negotiating end selling prices. Have a look at the testimonials on our website - they say it all.

Our fees are highly competitive

We own the business. For this reason our fees are remarkably competitive.

New properties urgently required!

We have cash buyers waiting.

Diana King 021 613 884 diana.king@remueraregister.co.nz

09 520 6624

Limited licensed REAA 2008

the hobson + remuera live life local

A Pearl of a Business With their fashion and jewellery boutiques, the Bilkey family are long-time Remuera retailers

F

or three decades, the Bilkey family have had a presence in Remuera, first with Bilkey & Co jewellers, then with Browns fashion boutique. They’ve recently combined the two into one shop and relaunched as Browns, offering jewellery, clothing and accessories.

You’re the Bilkey family – where is the name Browns from?

Lyn: The shop was originally called Maggie Brown, after my grandmother. She was a tailor, I guess it ran in the family, as my own mother Yvonne worked here at Browns doing our pearl threading and bookwork until she was 94!

Kirsten: They were so inspirational. We come from a long line of hard-working women!

So it was a given then, Lyn, that you would also be involved in the clothing trade?

Believe it or not, I was actually a dental nurse before this.

Do you have jewellers in the family too?

Lyn: No, but jewellery is my passion. When I first married, I had $1000 to furnish our house. I went to an estate sale and came home with a diamond ring instead! That’s where it all started.

Kirsten, did you grow up knowing you would work in the family business?

Not really. I went to university and got a BA in management, then worked part-time in the shops, with it eventually evolving into full-time. Having the family support meant I could still attend things at the kids’ schools. Work never gets boring because there’s something different happening

every day, and of course the overseas travel – buying trips to America three to four times a year are the icing on the cake!

What’s it like working with family?

Kirsten: We don’t do ‘roles’ and the success of the shops [the family has recently opened another Browns in Orākei’s Eastridge centre] are due to running them like a household. We all work well together [patriarch Bob Bilkey is also involved] and are all capable of doing all parts of the business. We can rely on and support each other.

And do you hang out together outside of work too?

Lyn: We quite often do family stuff together, but we all have our own separate interests too. My passion is music – I play piano and am the only one in the family to play a ukulele!

Bob enjoys his yacht racing.

Kirsten, do you see your children coming into the business?

It’s a bit early to tell as they’re all quite young. But they enjoy coming into work with me. It’s great that they can see me working, and that they can help out and start learning a work ethic.

SPECIAL READER OFFER mention the hobson when you visit browns AND GO INTO THE DRAW TO WIN a $100 browns voucher.

THE WINNER WILL BE DRAWN on June 30

Mother-and-daughter retailers Lyn and Kirsten Bilkey. Interviews by Fiona Wilson, photos by Vanita Andrews the hobson 30

live life local

A Taste of Europe Old friends bring new energy to Remuera’s dining scene

D

ining in Remuera is rapidly becoming the domain of local restaurateurs Buki Prekazi and Blerta Rakovica.

This month marks three years since they opened Remuera Local Café Bistro (which they’ve since expanded to include Laneway bar) and they’ve recently embarked on a new ‘family dining’ venture in the Village Green.

How did two friends end up owning restaurants together?

Blerta: My husband Labi and I are both passionate about food and wine, so when another friend mentioned Pyrenees (now The Local) was for sale, it made perfect sense to go into it with Buki. He’s been in the hospitality trade for as long as I’ve known him!

Buki: I’d just come back from Europe. It was truly a case of right place, right area, right time.

Where are you both from, and what brought you to NZ? Blerta: We both come from Kosovo. I moved here in 1999 to be with my dad’s family, who have been here since the ’50s.

Buki came here a few years before me, but we only met in Auckland about 15 years ago.

Tell us about your new restaurant, Artusi Cucina.

Buki: It’s been my dream to open an Italian restaurant.

Italian food is one of the most palatable, and we do it well – my background is in French and Italian cooking. The location in the Village Green means quiet, peaceful indoor or outdoor dining. And it’s the antithesis to fine-dining; think comfort food, family gatherings, using local, organic produce.

What does the name mean?

Buki: Pellegrino Artusi was an Italian who wrote a very inspirational book about “the art of eating well,” and we’ve based our restaurant around this concept.

Do you have hospitality backgrounds?

Blerta: I didn’t! I’d worked as a waitress during uni breaks, but nothing like this. I actually trained in graphic design and fine arts. Of course now I’m an expert!

Buki: I started out as a kitchenhand when I was 15 and worked my way through Europe and then New Zealand, both as a chef and a restaurant manager. I had a successful partnership with well-known Auckland restaurateur Tony Matches at [Herne Bay’s] Villa d’Vine, and it was really his passion that fuelled my desire to open my own eatery.

You have three restaurants/bars now, and you both have young families. How do you manage to fit it all in?

Blerta: Our lives run through rosters, which we’ve tweaked over the years, and family time is included! People say hospitality is hard on families, but I disagree. We both have very flexible lives through the businesses, and plenty of time for family fun.

SPECIAL READER OFFER book your artusi function by june 30 and enjoy a complimentary selection of three different canapes for your guests. enquire via artusicucina.co.nz or call 522 9196

Hospitable partners Blerta Rakovica and Buki Prekazi, outside at Artusi. Read more about these businesses at www.remuera.org.nz the hobson 31

the expat

A Different Place

L

ouise Chunn grew up in Parnell, went to school in Remuera, studied at the University of Auckland and left NZ in 1981 for the UK, where she’s lived since. After a career as an awarded writer and editor (Elle, The Guardian, InStyle, Psychologies) Chunn has founded welldoing.org, a highly-regarded resource linking people with therapists by need (she is part of Google’s inaugural “Founders over 50” program in London), and was the only UK participant selected for 2015’s Blackbox Connect, a start-up immersion in Palo Alto). On a recent trip home, she shared some memories with THE HOBSON about growing up locally.

“My father, Jerry, had been a GP in Otahuhu, and that’s where we’d lived, in a big old rambly house with a tennis court and a lot of grounds. We’d gone to the local schools and when we moved to Parnell in 1970, it was with the idea that we were going to live in Remuera. Dad was going to become an allergist, which was unheard of in New Zealand at the time. He started going to America to talk to doctors who did that kind of work there.

Initially we rented 469 Parnell Rd, one of those three black Victorian brick terraces. It was a pretty dingy place. Parnell was a very different area. There were lots of students, and a big Pacific Island community.

“Parnell Village was just starting to be done by Les Harvey.

Parnell used to be a place that you could buy a screwdriver, and it’s become a place where you can buy fabulous scented candles. We were looking today for a double plug — you’re not going to find one of those in Parnell. But it’s still a lovely place to be.

“So we rented, seven of us crammed into 469, for a couple of years.

Then there was some falling out about building a house in Remuera, and my parents, perhaps unwisely, called a family meeting and there was a vote on where we wanted to go, and the children won, and that was to stay in Parnell. You wouldn’t do it nowadays, would you? I certainly wouldn’t.

“I was a day girl at Baradene, my older brothers, Mike and Geoff, were boarders at Sacred Heart. My younger brother Derek was a day pupil at Sacred Heart, and Jeremy, the youngest, went to Grammar.

The principal thing I remember from the early days in the house was Split Enz practicing in one of the buildings, because Dad ended up buying the three terraces, numbers 469, 471 and 473 [brother Mike was a founding member, Mike and Geoff later formed Citizen Band].

We converted two of the terraces to be one house, and Dad set up his practice in the third one. He ended up with a really successful allergy clinic.

“There seemed a big difference between Parnell and Remuera.

Remuera was so established and affluent, and Parnell definitely wasn’t, and it also seemed quite alternative. I liked that as a teenager,

that seemed absolutely right. And I loved having jobs, little weekend jobs and holiday jobs, working for people in different local shops. I also worked in the Parnell Post Office. It was kind of fun, but if your figures didn’t add up, then you had to put your hand in your pocket!

“I also worked at Barker and Pollock in the city, in 246. That was one of my favourite jobs ever. They’d just started having Laura Ashley fabric, and it was dreamy, I loved it. I was constantly making skirts and tops. I got some kind of paltry discount, and thought I really was the bee’s knees.

“I’m still really, rather typically, pretty close to many of my Baradene friends. It was an amazing time. The Sacred Heart nuns at Baradene were quite a sophisticated order. They were not like the Mercy nuns who’d taught me in Otahuhu. As my father used to say of the Mercy nuns, it was the “greatest misnomer known to man”.

“The nuns at Baradene were very different. They were much better educated. It was post-Vatican II, which meant that the whole of, well not the whole really, but some of, Catholicism was opening up. By the time I left Baradene, none of them were even wearing a veil — they wore a little cross pinned on their clothes. When I’d come for my interview, the habit was a pleated thing, so you couldn’t even see the profile of their faces.

“It was a really interesting time to be educated by them, and in no way do I feel that it was a bad education. But when I got to university, I did think, when I encountered kids from other schools, “oh that’s interesting — how come they know that?”

Because although our education was good, it was limiting.

“In my seventh form, I spent a year as a Rotary exchange student, living with a family in Jamestown, New York. When I came back, in 1975, I lived back in Parnell at my parents’ house. I can remember that quite vividly, because it was like being a semi-adult, walking through the Domain to university and starting to appreciate the more worldly side of Parnell, like the pubs.

“Something I do notice when I come back now is that this is an amazing place to grow plants, flowers, everything — there’s lots of sun, lots of rain. But the gardens seem so conformist, so clipped, and everything is so square. I don’t understand that. I see this clipping thing in London as well, but it’s not as conformist. I walk around a lot while I’m here, between my brother’s place in Remuera, and my mother’s in Parnell, and it makes me think that there are so many other shrubs and hedges, but it feels like everybody wants to be the same. I like things being a bit different. When my parents had those houses, nobody else’s looked like that. It was so different. Even nowadays, I can tell somebody in London that I grew up in those houses on Parnell Rd, and they’re like, “I know those houses!” There was no-one else living like that.

“It’s a different Parnell. And a different Remuera.”

Louise Chunn and her late father, Dr Jerry Chunn, outside their Parnell Rd home, circa 1976. the hobson 32

the hobson + lumino

Five Things to Know About Dental Implants If you have a missing tooth, or have lost teeth, you are probably a candidate for dental implants.

Getting an implant is a two-step process in which a titanium or alloy screw is surgically placed in the jawbone and a prosthetic tooth, or a crown, is attached later.

1. An implant beats bridges or dentures Bridges, dentures and implants replace missing teeth.

However a bridge requires cutting down the two adjacent teeth, which can make them weaker. A proper implant has no physical downsides and has good longevity. Dentures often have fit problems and can interfere with taste and speech. Implant-retained dentures address these wellknown negative side effects of dentures.

2. There is a downside The downside of implants?

The cost. They are not a low-cost solution. A high proportion of the cost is the implant itself. Most dentists use high quality, proven implants from reputable companies. There are also some newer, generic implants that are cheaper, but may not have been well studied yet.

3. Getting an implant is a process Placing dental implants involves one or more surgical procedures, which can take three months or more. It’s a lengthy journey, but much of the time is for healing and allowing new bone to grow in your jaw. During the healing phase your dentist can make a temporary replacement tooth.

4. Implants are tricky — not all dentists can place dental implants Most dentists can fit the crown after the surgical placement of the implant (the second step in the process), but very few dentists have significant experience in the critical surgical placement of implants. For example, there are only a dozen or so dentists of the 200+ dentists in the Lumino group across New Zealand that we promote as skilled in the surgical placement of implants.

Visit lumino.co.nz/implantdentists to find out who they are in the Remuera, Newmarket and city area.

5. Not all dental practices have access to the optimal equipment to place dental implants Equipment such as 3D cone beam x-ray machines help

ensure that dental implants are placed in exactly the right position in the bone. This technology enables the dentist to get a full picture of the patient’s teeth, jaws and nerve canals.

The implant can then be adapted to fit the patient’s anatomy in a minimally invasive manner. This ensures the highest degree of safety for the implant patient and the maximum success rate.

When you are seeking a dentist to place your implant, we suggest you ask the following questions:

• Ask if the dentist places the

implant themselves, or if they refer the placement of your implant to another dentist.

Ask how many implants the dentist has placed, over what time frame, and what their success rate is.

Ask what additional training the dentist has done to upskill themselves in the field of dental implantology.

Ask for the referral of a recent implant patient as well as a patient that completed their implant treatment with that dentist several years earlier.

Ask what specialised equipment they have to help with the planning and placement of the implant.

Ask if the practice offers finance of any kind to help manage the cost of the treatment.

• • •

•

•

At Lumino The Dentists, we are proud to offer high quality dental care for all New Zealanders. We want to ensure that New Zealanders are armed with relevant information to help them make informed decisions about the dental provider they choose.

We would love to have you as our patient for life.

100 practices nationwide ph: 0800 LUMINO lumino.co.nz

Implant Centre

the heritage

Children and staff in the dining room of the Leslie Orphanage, circa 1913. Photographer unidentified. Image PAColl-7581-2. Alexander Turnbull Library. Below, early 20th century Meadowbank, and OrÄ kei Basin, photos courtesy of Meadowbank Village.

the hobson 34

It Takes aVillage From virgin bush to farmland, to an orphanage, hospital and now retirement complex, the Orākei Basin end of Meadowbank Rd has seen many changes over the decades. By Penny Lewis

M

eadowbank Village is now home to retirees who enjoy comfortable apartment living in a tranquil location, but just over a century ago the site was home to some of the youngest and most vulnerable members of society. The Leslie Orphanage opened in 1911, 23 years after the death of its principal benefactor and namesake, Parnell baker James Leslie, who died in November 1888.

Sited on four hectares at the end of Meadowbank Rd — the current day apartments have an almost rural aspect, with the bush walks to Orākei Basin in one direction and views to the Kepa Rd pony fields in another — the land was acquired by the Presbyterian Church early in the 20th century.

James Leslie was part of the congregation of St Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Remuera, but news of his bequest spread far and wide. The November 22, 1888, edition of the Christchurch Star ran a story about Leslie’s legacy, stating “orphans and destitute children of all races and creeds are to be admissible, but the inmates are to be educated in the doctrine of the Presbyterian Church”.

Leslie left £3485, but extra funds were needed. The Auckland Star of November 16, 1905, reported on a meeting between the Leslie trustees and the Presbyterian Orphanage Committee where it was intended “an orphanage will be accomplished in the near future”. It was decided the name would be the “Leslie Presbyterian Orphanage”.

Several years later, with the coffers boosted by donations, including £1000 from Mrs Birrell of Mt Eden and £500 from a Mrs Knox, the project was underway. The trustees and committee purchased the four hectares at the back of the Lucerne estate, now numbered 148-154 Meadowbank Rd, for an undisclosed sum and the orphanage opened on October 21, 1911. In May 1913, a New Zealand Herald reporter visited and published a glowing report. The account described “the position of the institution is sufficiently isolated to render it to all intents and purposes a country home for the children”. At the time 15 boys and 13 girls were in residence, aged between three and 15.

The description continued to describe a brick building, facing north-west and standing “at the top of rising ground, from which a fine view of the harbour on the south, and of the surrounding country, is obtained”. Alarming by today’s standards, the account also notes “as precautions against fire, asbestos has largely been used in the materials for the internal walls”.

In their book A Fine Prospect: A History of Remuera, Meadowbank and St Johns, historians Jenny Carlyon and Diana Morrow say that after additions in the 1920s and 30s, the orphanage was eventually able to accommodate 95 children. The orphanage produced its own milk, butter, eggs, fruit and vegetables. A Fine Prospect reveals life at the orphanage was strictly disciplined and spartan. “The older children worked hard either at housework or on the little attached farm.” At first the children had lessons at the orphanage, but when Meadowbank School opened in 1915, the children walked to classes across the newly built bridge over the estuary.

The brick (and asbestos) orphanage was eventually demolished in November 1969 and replaced with a new building on the site of the old cow paddock, housing 16 children and

the hobson 35

the heritage

M Top: mid-century modern comes to Meadowbank. Below: Meadowbank Village retirement complex, which stands on the orphanage and hospital site.

four staff. Adjacent, the Meadowbank Old Peoples’ Home and Hospital was built by the church in the mid 1970s. The children’s home closed in the 1980s, but the Leslie name still continues with the Presbyterian social services Family Works Leslie Centre in Mt Roskill.

In 2004, Presbyterian Support Northern sold the site to Oceania Healthcare, which opened its first Meadowbank Village apartment buildings, called Kohimarama and St Heliers, in October 2012. The Tui apartments opened in June 2015 and there is further development underway, which includes more apartments, a community centre and hospital-level care. The newest building is called the Hobson.

“When it came time to decide on names, we went to the residents and asked them for their suggestions,” says Oceania Healthcare’s Laura Vlad. “We were keen to have names that had historic links to the area and the residents came up with Hobson and James Leslie.”

Within the Hobson building is an apartment floor with sweeping views, named in honour of highly-decorated WWI Remuera nurse, Cora Anderson.

“We came up with the name Cora Anderson Pavillion after reading an article that appeared in April issue of THE HOBSON,” says Laura. “She made a significant contribution to the war and spent much of her life caring for people. She lived in the area and is buried in Meadowbank.”

Historic photos hung throughout the Village also show the important role history plays here. And while children may no longer live on-site, visiting grandchildren provide a modern link with the land’s not-so-distant past. p the hobson 36

eadowbank Village resident Robin Boud grew up just down the road from where she lives now as a retiree. Two-storey No. 3 Purewa Rd is “the last house before the flood gates, beside the railway”(pictured above, and a tiny Robin, posing proudly). Her parents, Eileen and Max Collings, moved into the state house when it was brand new, after living in a transition camp for a year after the war due to a housing shortage for returning soldiers.

Robin lived at home until she was 24 and married her husband, Roger. Her parents bought their home “later on”, Robin says. “They couldn’t afford it when State Advances first offered it to them.”

She started at Meadowbank School as a 5-yearold in 1950 (her own two sons would also go to the school). The neighbourhood children would meet up with at least 20 or so children from the Leslie Orphanage for the walk to school. “There were never any adults with us. We used to walk along a track in the upper Orākei Basin and across the bridge.”

Robin recalls the Meadowbank of her childhood as “quite utilitarian and stark”.

She says with many of the neighbourhood living in state housing, “none of the families had any money, but strong bonds were formed”. The fun included trying the milk from the Leslie cow, socialising at each others’ homes, nights of parents drinking home brew while the kids fell asleep, “top and tailing under the stars”.

Robin and Roger bought their Meadowbank Village apartment as soon as the complex opened.

She was also pleased to catch up with old friends from the orphanage at Meadowbank School’s centenary celebrations last year.

“I’ve returned to my roots. It’s so familiar and there are only good memories here.”

the neighbourhood

The Remuera Housing Drought Across the city, there just aren’t enough houses to meet demand, even taking first homes out of the equation.

THE HOBSON invited this commentary from Remuera Real Estate Register director Terry King about the particular set of circumstances driving the market in Remuera.

R

emuera residential sales are down 40 per cent in volume compared to the same period last year (January-May 2015), which begs the question ... what is happening?

This is a huge drop in volume when you think about it, and it comes off a 20 per cent increase in volume for the same period the year before. In numbers, 290 Remuera sales in 2015 were down to 171 for the same January-May period in 2016 (source: REINZ to May 10, 2016) .

Is this a sign that the demand for homes in the area is dropping?

Not according to our experience with our register of buyers. It has never been stronger, and new registrations — people briefing us on what they need and their purchasing bracket — have been averaging two a day of late.

When we bring a new, priced, property to the market, we normally sell it to someone from our Register in the first few days.

Then, those that missed out say “I want another one like that one”.

And this is the start of the problem. This year there has not necessarily been “another one like that” available. People then prefer to wait for the right house to be listed rather than compromise.

The core of our buyer market are families moving into Remuera because of the location’s proximity to good schools. As the traffic across town worsens, so this portion of the market will continue to grow. They see themselves staying in the same house for the next 10 to 15 years. They know what they want by way of area and facilities to cover this period of kids growing up, and the different separation needs from primary school to young adults. They would rather not move again during this time, and are happy to invest the money in the beginning because it is all about quality of life, and rationalised by low interest rates and property value growth.

The stock that feeds our register of cash buyers tends to come from the families who have finished their education cycle. They are at home with fewer or no children, and they are likely to have a beach property and/or travel regularly. They don’t need the size, the maintenance is a tie and they would really rather release some capital.

But in moving to the home that will be for the “relaxed” chapter of their lives, they want quality and ideally the best of service areas.

And something that is newish or has been redone. And, because of the difficulty of finding smaller, quality properties in the area, the growing trend is not to put “the big house” on the market until they have found the new one.

Therein lies one of the main problems. The cost of rebuilt houses in Remuera.

This is a combination of ever-increasing land values, plus the also ever-increasing cost of building and Council compliance.

The result is that a rebuilt or renovated three-bedroom house, on 600m² of land, could have a similar asking price to a five-bedroom house on 900m² of land that was last updated 15 years ago. In many cases, people could be looking at downsizing without a positive cash difference.

A lot of people believe that property is the best investment in the current market. So, there is another group of purchasers who buy their next home without selling the existing family home. They choose to rent it out because based on the rent they can get, against the price they originally paid, it makes good sense. Money is cheap to borrow and many see their savings better off in a property, producing income, plus perceived capital gain, than in the bank.

And the final element is that people are fussy about what they buy. Those that have sold will rent until the right property is available. They are then in a position to act instantly. Others, who can afford to, want to buy first and sell after they are happy with their next move. And this is probably creating the biggest supply problem right now ... the lack of available, desirable “next stage” lock-up-and-leave private properties in Remuera.

This is slowing down the supply of good-size, quality family homes in the Remuera schools’ zone.

And it is this lack of supply, we believe, that has resulted in the fall in sales volume. So, if you are thinking of moving from your “surplus” family home, there has probably never been a better time to sell a nice Remuera home of size.

And, if we haven’t found your next stage property by settlement date, you could always consider renting until it becomes available — as of mid May, there were 97 homes for rent in Remuera and only 95 listed for sale. Food for thought!

—Terry King

the hobson 37

the pretty

Clean Sweep Justine Williams comes clean on cleansing options A new addition to the Advanced Night Repair family, this Advanced Micro Cleansing Balm from Estēe Lauder is a sensory sensation — as the lavender and chamomile scented balm is massaged over dry skin, it melts into a silky cleansing oil. It then transforms with water into a milky emulsion that rinses off easily for a clean, conditioned feel, without any greasy residue. $85, from Estēe Lauder counters

On the go or simply too tired to deal? There is a place in your beauty regime for Clinique Take The Day Off Micellar Cleansing Towellettes.

Ideal for those nights where a proper cleanse is not an option, but neither is heading off to sleep with a face full of makeup. Also handy in your gym bag. $38 from Clinique counters

If you like a more natural approach to your products, try Trilogy Very Gentle Cleansing Cream. Its gentle formula is designed to delicately cleanse the most sensitive and easily irritated skin, but it’s no wimp — it tackles makeup with ease.

The formula includes spring water, camellia oil and chamomile chosen for soothing properties. $43.90 from Life Pharmacy Remuera

Ultraceuticals’ multi-award winning Ultra Brightening Foaming Cleanser boasts a brightening complex of vitamin B3, provitamin B5 and soothing cucumber extract. It thoroughly cleanses the skin, leaving the complexion luminous without the drying effect that comes with some foaming cleansers. Suitable for all skin types. $70, from Face Doctors and About Face, Remuera

Eau Micellaire Douceur by Lancôme has a kind of active molecule that attracts dirt and oil. French women love this style of cleanser, and this blend boasts both gentle micellar technology cleansing agents, and soothing Rose de France. It lifts and removes makeup and impurities, even waterproof and longwear formulas, with no need to rinse. $76, Life Pharmacy Meadowbank

Similar to a balm, but skipping straight ahead, this Clarins Total Cleansing Oil also transforms into a milk on rinsing, and is fantastic for eliminating all traces of resistant makeup, fine pearl powders or mineral sunscreens. This can also be used as a makeup remover before a more indepth cleanse. $55, Life Pharmacy Remuera

NIVEA Daily Essentials 2 in 1 Wash and Scrub is a gentle exfoliating scrub and cleansing gel in one, which removes excess oils and sebum leaving skin purified, invigorated and free of shiny bits. Suitable for combination skin types, and ideal for the teens as a once or twice-a-week treatment cleanse. $11.59 from New World Remuera

An oldie but a goodie for sure.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a gentle, rice-powder based skin polisher, which activates with a dash of water in the palm of your hand, releasing papain, salicylic acid and rice enzymes that work together to micro-exfoliate dead cells. A skin-brightening complex helps to balance uneven skin pigmentation, while a supersoothing blend of green tea, ginkgo and colloidal oatmeal helps to calm the skin. $96, www.dermalogica.co.nz

QV Intensive Moisturising Cleanser is just what you need for extremely dry and sensitive skin. This is a no-frills, no mucking about, good solid cleanser that does not strip the skin. The lightly foaming, soap-free formulation gently cleanses and softens leaving a hydrating film. This cleanser contains a higher moisturiser concentration than the QV Gentle Wash, which is equally as good, and ideal for teenage skin. $20.99 each from Remuera Pharmacy

the hobson 38

“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 magpie

As The Crow Flies

The Mapgie zooms in on treasure close to home

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1 NZ-born, Sydneybased, artist Lillie Toogood blends her love of photography, travel, textiles and design to create pieces for her Good&Co brand.

Her 100 per cent silk Ornate Options scarf, $275, is wearable art with its motifs of Hindu Rajput and Islamic Mughal architecture. From a selection at Hedgerow, 371 Remuera Rd. hedgerow.co.nz 2 Now does the Mapgie like these Ray-Ban tortoise frames because they remind her of Gregory PECK playing Atticus FINCH? Or just because they can make anyone look suitably hip and bookish? $219 (frames only). OPSM, 395 Remuera Rd. opsm.co.nz 3 Where did you get that hat, where did you get that hat? Got that as an earworm now? You’re welcome. But it’s also what you’ll be asked when people spot you wearing one of the natty hats from Hattitude. The Magpie particularly likes this dapper green wool Goorin Good Boy, $119, which comes all the way from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It’s in the men’s section, but what’s yours is mine, and vice versa.

Hattitude, 235 Parnell Rd. hattitude.co.nz 4 Lladrō teamed with fellow Spaniard, artist Jaime Hayon, to create The Fantasy Collection. The Magpie spotted Hayon’s The Lover III, $1870, and a spell was cast — it was indeed love. These futuristic and beautiful figurines are really rather special, with their quiet kooky charm. The Gift Room, 2 Remuera Mall, 319 Remuera Rd. thegiftroom.co.nz

go-anywhere, doanything, perfect shade of navy blue, shoe. Mikko Shoes, 402 Remuera Rd. mikkoshoes.com

5 The Magpie is always on the lookout for beautiful things to have on hand in the “present cupboard”. These ceramic bowls by Jo Luping hit the mark. The butterfly caught our eye, but there’s also appealing designs of kowhai, manuka and a cicada too. Butterfly Bowl $30 from The Print Shop, 387 Remuera Rd. printshopgallery.co.nz 6 Gold has been back on top for a while now, and it’s going to be the hue de jour for a while yet. The Magpie was drawn to the good looks of this stunning Italian-made 18ct yellow gold dress ring with .30 carats of diamonds through the centre. $5650 from Sanders Jewellers, 385 Remuera Rd. sandersjewellers.co.nz 7 En pointe with the swing to gold, and capturing the prettiness of pastels too, is this Multi Coloured Necklace, $2750.

Dotted with lemon citrine, blue topaz, green amethyst, yellow citrine and peridot set in 14ct gold, it proves timeless jewellery is always a good idea. From Jems of Remuera, 346 Remuera Rd. jemsofremuera.co.nz 8 For more than 40 years, Arche has been keeping feet in step with style and comfort from their French headquarters in the Loire Valley. Luckily, the Calder by Arche, $469, is available much closer to home. The ultimate

the hobson 40

9 You want a starburst of style this winter? Make you smart casual interstellar-smart with Karen Walker Intercosmos Sweatshirt, $260, Vika Patched Pants, $485, and Vikto lace-ups, $395. From Karen Walker, 6 Balm St. karenwalker.com 10 It’s definitely time to bring out the reds.

The 2013 vintage produced an exceptional crop of the lovely Malbec grape, prompting Gisborne’s Matawhero to vint Matawhero Church House Malbec. The winemakers say it’s “something of a revelation, it is fruit-driven and forward, with assertive blackcurrant/plum characters echoing notes of herb, spice and chocolate, all bedded on a supple tannin structure.” The Magpie just says, “Cheers duckies”. $25.99 from Glengarry, 154 and 400 Remuera Rd. glengarry.co.nz 11 Swoop on these ... Colestown chocolates are now available at the local company’s bespoke new Remuera shop. These artisan chocolates are produced in small batches, using the finest Callebaut chocolate from Belgium and adding nuts, honey, fruit and liqueurs for flavour. Select your favourites singly or buy boxed for gifts (if you can bear to part with them). Colestown Chocolates, 405 Remuera Rd. colestownchocolates.co.nz

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the second act

Let's Hear it for the BMFF*

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ooking back from the viewpoint of my now-fabulous early 50s, the most overrated decade of my life was my 30s, which is a big call given the fact that this was the decade when my husband and kids turned up.

At the time I couldn’t put my finger on what was irritating about it, but now I know — I was in the heart of gendered living, because I was married with small kids. It was the barbecue years, where men gathered around talking about sport, cars and work; and women made salads in the kitchen and talked about their kids. Because as a woman I was doing the lion’s share of everything (the research is in, don’t even try arguing with me) I surrendered to the role of doing the kids’ fish fingers as well as our dinner. Besides, I was exhausted from living the double life of a careerist and mother of young children, which when I look back, was still not that common even 20 years ago.

Along the way there were coffee groups, girls’ nights out and escapist chick flicks with my female friends in a similar life stage. I followed the expected tropes and trotted out the mantra, “I can’t get by without my girlfriends”. And don’t get me wrong — I couldn’t, and still couldn’t, priding myself in possibly the most interesting and eclectic bunch of girlfriends imaginable.

But one thing was missing and that was my “boy friends”. They only came back on the scene when I came up for breath in my 40s.

What I mean is platonic, male buddy pals (the academic term is Opposite Sex Friend, or OSF) — men whom I went to school or studied with, or have worked with during my career. Guys who probably have a high value on the marriage market, but in whom I have zero sexual interest. And I am sure the feeling’s mutual.

Maybe, maybe not. Who cares? Not me, not them.

These platonic friendships are rewarding in a way that is completely different from my female friendships. We talk about different things, share different experiences and they are supportive in a way that only blokes can be. We share a different history. A couple of them bailed me out of appalling

relationships in the early years in a big-brotherly way, and I’ve definitely helped them too. Because in the yin and yang of a platonic friendship, a whole different perspective is opened up.

A couple of OSFs have said to me over the years “this is great Sandy, it’s just like talking to a bloke.” Ha! Of course it’s not.

That’s the point. And it certainly isn’t like talking to your spouse, because the truth is that spouses always come with a loaded agenda, they/we just can’t help it.

The wives of my OSF buddy ol’ pals are a little tense when I have a drink with their husbands, particularly the younger wives. I wonder if the jealousy and concern is that one’s spouse is opening up to another woman in a way that is unavailable to them. But that is the whole point. I always say to my OSF, “can you reassure your wife that I’d sooner sleep with a goat, no offence”.

There is an invisible, lovely, playful tension with an OSF, because it's a whole different dance between men and women, which immediately means the friendship has a dynamic unavailable in a same-sex relationship. I do have gay male friends too (and females for that matter) who provide a safe halfway house for those embarking on increasing their OSF numbers!

But the goal in your second act is striving for a real variety of friendships to balance your viewpoint and experience in the world. OSFs can deliver on this. And what does my husband think? Well, one of my newer BFFs is an early girlfriend of his, and she’s coming to stay in a couple of weeks.

Perhaps it is only when one fully embraces their second act, and explores who they are aside from being one half of a marriage, that the joys of an OSF can be fully and platonically appreciated.

We hear a lot about gender diversity in the workplace, and gender diversity in leadership, but gender diversity in friendship is probably the easiest place to start.

— Sandy Burgham *Best Male Friend Forever

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMME FOR WOMEN

the hobson 42

the hobson + prescription skin care

Now, About Your Neck

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any of us concentrate most of our anti-aging efforts on our face, lavishing the chin upwards with the best in care and attention. Often, the neck and jawline goes neglected, and therefore can be the first area to show signs of aging.

But there are treatments available that work to counter aging, skimped care and the genetic lottery that’s given you the skin on your neck and décolletage. Now is the perfect time to talk to the experts at Prescription Skin Care about ways of improving that tricky neck area.

Do you have any of these concerns?

1. Necklace lines 2. Pronounced tendons 3. Jowls 4. Sagging skin at the throat 5. Pigmentation on the décolletage 6. Crepey skin

(6)

Pronounced Vertical Tendons If you tend to strain your neck muscles, this area can look more unattractive as you age, and lose volume. Targeted use of Botox can soften the effect, and stop these muscles from over tensing.

(3)

(2)

(1) (4)

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The neck can be a difficult area to treat, so it’s essential you talk to the experts. Find the best customised option for you when you see the highly-trained and well-regarded professionals at Prescription Skin Care for a consultation. Here are some of the many ways we can address your neck concerns:

Necklace Lines, Sagging or Crepey Skin Restylane Vital is a hyaluronic acid filler that hydrates the skin and improves its structure and elasticity. This new generation filler has a fine, sheer texture. Rather than being used to plump up a specific area such as lips or cheeks, this type of filler is ideal for overall skin rejuvenation, and is very effective for the neck and décolletage.

Say goodbye to stubborn fat with CoolSculpting® Permanently reduce fat on the stomach, back, inner thighs and arms without surgery or down time. Safe and effective for men and women.

Artem Furman/shutterstock.com

– The only fat reduction machine to be FDA approved – Over 2 million treatments world wide – Prescription Skin Care are the most experienced in NZ

Phone us today on 09 529 5784 Led by plastic surgeon Stephen Gilbert FRCS, FRACS (Plastic) 243 Remuera Rd, Remuera, Auckland | www.prescriptionskincare.co.nz

Pigmentation on the Décolletage Treat sunspots with Prescription Skin Care’s advanced IPL treatment, which is safe and effective for very light to very dark skins. Wintertime is ideal for treatment since UV exposure is reduced, and the sun won’t be working counter to your results. We can also improve the look of pigmented skin with medicalgrade skin care, backed by scientific research.

Jowls and Double Chin These can be effectively treated with the ‘Nefertiti lift’, a Botox technique that defines and recontours the area with a series of simple injections.

Fillers, injectables and targeted skin care can do much to address neck concerns, but sometimes the results you want may be best suited to a surgical procedure. Today’s surgery is non-invasive and a long way from what may come to mind when you think of “neck lift” or “face lift”. We can arrange a free consultation with a specialist surgical nurse at our partner practice, the NZ Institute of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery.

Prescription Skin Care is led by Plastic Surgeon Dr Stephen Gilbert FRCS, FRACS (plastic).

243 Remuera Rd, Remuera. Call 529 5784 or email info@prescriptionskincare for an appointment.

the journey

the hobson 44

Stepping Back on the Western Front Gerard Murphy marks Anzac Day by honouring his family's sacrifice in Belgium

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y small hotel is at Hooge, four kilometres from Ypres in the Flanders area. It is built on the grounds of the Chateau de Hooge. From my room I see a small wood surrounding a large green pond, a park-like setting and beautifully peaceful. But on closer inspection the wood is littered with large iron objects, and just 20 metres from my window is a large concrete structure.

The chateau and the old woods were completely obliterated early in the Western Front conflict of WWI. The concrete structure is a machine gun post, the iron cast-offs are military and tunnelling equipment, which sit atop a network of trenches. The woods are regrown from total desolation and the pond is in fact a huge crater from massive underground bombs tunnelled there by the British troops, right under the German trenches. We are in the Western Front here, literally. This piece of dirt changed hands at least four times during the war, as battle lines moved back and forward, west to east twice from 1914 to 1918. Here in Hooghe it moved just 400 metres.

The situation is surreal. Within just a few hundred metres from where I will sleep tonight, I know that hundreds died, right here in this peaceful picture. At my feet this afternoon the remains of mustard gas launchers, shell casings and barbed wire still in place. Many will still lie here entombed in its soils, some will surface as they do still in these parts 100 years on, others will lie here for eternity unknown — RIP. It is confronting.

My visit to the Western Front began yesterday when I met my guide, Sylvestre, at Amiens in the Somme. He would take me to the key battle sites, memorials and cemeteries. He would also take me to the graves of my father’s uncle, Denis Murphy, who perished here in 1917 aged 26, and that of Clement Wood, my wife Michele’s great-uncle, who was also killed in 1917, aged 25. It is an emotional day as Sylvestre explains what each soldier’s unit was doing on the day of his death. Our family is fortunate in that we have grave sites to visit. Many thousands were never found nor identified. Many have tombstones that simply read “Known unto God”.

Both great-uncles are laid in small peaceful cemeteries in French villages. Many of the cemeteries are literally road-side, without any beauty or design. There are hundreds of these cemeteries along the frontline. Most, even if devoid of beauty, are meticulously maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Looking back over what I’ve written, it could sound depressing, but there have Clockwise from top: the view from Gerard Murphy’s hotel room at Hooge, showing remnants of a machine gun post; French and NZ flags hang in the town of Le Quesnoy; Murphy at his great-uncle’s grave.

the hobson 45

the journey

been many positive aspects to this short tour. I have met members of the New Zealand official party of local embassy staff and the military representatives, including a Māori cultural group from home. All contributed powerfully and respectfully at ceremonies in Longueval and Le Quesnoy. Not only did I meet many Kiwis, but also a number of French with no particular Kiwi connection, but an interest in the history and NZ’s contribution in bringing peace to their homeland. They do care here.

Le Quesnoy, a walled city, was liberated by the NZ division just seven days before the Armistice, in November 1918. At least 100 locals joined us travelling Kiwis at a very cold dawn service this morning. Many more attended the town’s own ceremony later in the morning, and walked in procession behind the town band to the NZ memorial outside the walls. Here in 1918 a small group scaled the ramparts. The locals certainly appreciated the Māori party’s performance, particularly a haka inside the Town Hall.

The town of Le Quesnoy is special. Nowhere else in France can boast a town square called “Place des All Blacks”, or street names like “Rue Aotearoa” and even “Rue de Helen Clark”.

The town is very welcoming with NZ flags and banners everywhere, and townspeople who are

genuinely warm. It is a historical, beautiful highlight of France for me.

Tomorrow is the Anzac dawn service with the Australians at Polygon Wood, near Ypres. This will be another poignant affair. Over the next two years, ceremonies such as these will be repeated many times before the 100th anniversary of the Armistice. This is not sightseeing but emotional, experiential touring that is richly rewarding. If you are travelling to Europe, I urge you to take a day or two to “remember them” where they fell.

Gerard Murphy is director of Parnell’s Bon Voyage Travel. THE HOBSON invites travel tales from readers: email editor@thehobson.co.nz

Top photo: Le Quesnoy’s memorial ceremony, which honours New Zealand's efforts in its defence. Below, the town’s dawn service.

All images courtesy of Gerard Murphy the hobson 46

the check in

Beyond the Neighbourhood This month, ideas for the roaming palate, collated by Louise Richardson

TEA-TOTALLY TERRIFIC Sri Lanka is home to some of the world’s most prolific tea plantations and rice fields, and a myriad of other food and beverage treats.

From the little coastal communities with their fresh sea bounty to the colourful village markets, Sri Lanka is a foodie’s paradise. Last year, food writer Helen Jackson, founder of the site foodlovers. co.nz, visited the island nation for the first time, and the trip was such a success, she’s heading back in September.

Jackson will lead a tour that explores cave temples, looks for wild elephants in Udawalawe National Park, visit ancient monuments and, of course, eat and drink all the way. With tea-tasting, a beach barbecue, and time in local villages learning their food culture, passionate traveller Helen and a bi-lingual Sri Lankan guide are set to deliver a memorable holiday adventure.

Visit worldexpeditions.com for further details.

NOTHING BLAA ABOUT THIS At THE HOBSON, we take our name from local landmarks Hobson Bay and Remuera’s volcanco, Ohinerau/Mt Hobson.

Both features were named after NZ’s first Governor, William Hobson, who hailed from County Waterford in Ireland.

Waterford is shaped by its Viking past, which began when Norse invaders established the town in 914AD. At Reginald’s Tower (right) you’ll find hundreds of fascinating artefacts from that era, and Viking walking tours around the city streets of Waterford are popular with visitors.

Many also associate Waterford with the legendary crystal that bears its name. As well as enduring, popular, fine crystal glassware, local artisans have produced chandeliers for Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle and the Kennedy Centre the hobson 47

in Washington DC. If you find yourself in town, check out the new Waterford Visitor Centre and watch the processes involving moulding, blowing, cutting and engraving

these individual works of art.

Waterford is known for its food too, and nothing represents the town better than its blaa, a floury, soft sort of bap. Nobody knows how it got its name, but it’s a very pleasant mouthful.

the check in RESTING ON LAUREL Laurel Bank House started life in the 1890s as one of central Queenstown’s first purpose-built summer guest houses. By the 1980s the stately villa had become hotel staff accommodation, was later divided into flats, and in 2003 was boarded up and facing an uncertain future as the town’s modern development rushed ahead. Then Steven and Sheena Brent bought the house, and relocated it in 2007 to 5ha on Ladies Mile, halfway between Queenstown and Arrowtown.

“It’s been an amazing experience,” says Sheena Brent, owner/host and also a photographer, who has documented the project from removal to relocation to renovation, step by step.

“They used three trucks over two days and there was one moment I’ll never forget when a particular part of the house was crossing the Shotover River, and it was wider than the bridge itself.”

Today’s restored Laurel Bank, pictured right, operates as a B&B and wedding and conference venue. It’s also handy for golfers (there’s a putting green on the property), being close to the courses at Jacks Point, Wakatipu, Millbrook and Arrowtown. And eating? Sheena will make recommendations but we can’t go past suggesting dinner at the Sherwood, on Frankton Rd (sherwoodqueenstown.nz) — more about that in our next issue. laurelbankhouse.com THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT Sole traveller? Want to make friends, but not like the friends you make on Tinder?

HerePin’s new, free, app aims to change the way travellers communicate. When you arrive somewhere, set your location and you’ll be part of conversations between fellow tourists. You’ll know exactly what’s happening and where, and make new friends in the process.

You can also use it in your home town to meet visitors and show them round. Help out by sharing local information and enjoy having a virtual real-time noticeboard in your pocket. Read about it at herepin.com Available from the App Store or GooglePlay.

The home-made ice cream at Colin James Fine Foods in Maleny is revered, and of course there’s Noosa, long the location of many wellregarded restaurants. If you’re there over a weekend, don’t miss the Noosa Farmers’ Market. The array of fruit and veges, nuts, olives, dips and chutneys, fresh bread and locally made cheeses make for great lunches. For information see visitsunshinecoast.com THE HOBSON n . . . Parnell resident and our arts contributor Leigh Melville’s Instagram feed (@leighjmelville). Posts from a recent trip to Japan covered style, architecture (Prada’s Herzog and de Meuron-designed Tokyo store) and of course, art (Yayoi Kusma’s Pumpkin, Naoshima).

EAT, SLEEP, PLAY As well as being handy and relatively inexpensive to visit, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is a worthy destination for foodlovers; fresh prawns, fish, oysters, lobster and crab can be found at Mooloolaba, one of the coast’s busiest ports while Buderim, 10 minutes away, is known for great coffee and the local ginger.

Keep up with The Hobson’s wanderlust — and posts we like — by following us on Instagram: @TheHobson

the hobson 48

the sound

Is This The GOAT of GOATs?

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’m often asked my opinion on what is the greatest album of all time.

I have my pat answer ready. It’s obviously Sgt Pepper’s from the Beatles. Great tunes. Mindblowing soundscapes. A theme. A great cover, and on top of all that, it changed everything. It was the first concept album that blew everyone away, from mums and sads to stoned hippies.

Instantly I’m questioning myself, because when asked what is the most important concept album, I have a pat answer for that too.

Not one I expect that you'd expect. It’s In the Wee Small Hours by Frank Sinatra, from way back in 1955. I bought it back in the ’80s at a record fair in the Wellington Town Hall. I bought it because I thought it was retro cool to have some Frank in the library. But once I put the needle on the platter I was hooked — a journey through loneliness, heartache, nightclubs, cocktails, cigarettes and sharp suits.

It was a glimpse past the veneer into the dark heart of the artist. I was blown away by the craft and the honesty. It wasn’t until much later I read that it’s considered the first concept album, but I knew what it was from the first time I heard it.

But then I consider the album that I think is the most satisfying listen from go to whoa. On my honour board, that belongs to The Cure’s Seventeen Seconds. I realise I may be alone in this. The band’s second album, it consolidated their “goth” sound, and the whole thing is as cold as dawn in July in Waiouru. But the way it starts with the slow plucking and tinkling of “A Reflection” then bursts into “Play for Today”. And it only continues, the crescendo with “A Forest” and then winding down. It is perfectly sequenced and once I start the thing I can’t stop ‘til the end, which is only 36 minutes later. Perfect. (Yes, I’m going to the gig at Vector).

Later in my life I listened in awe to Prince’s Sign of the Times, Radiohead’s OK Computer. I rediscovered Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and even Split Enz’s True Colours. All great albums.

But there is a holy trinity of pop albums popularly hailed as the “Greatest Of All Time”, or GOATs. They’re judged on artistic value, impact on culture, out and out sales and how cool it felt when you bought your copy. They are Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Prince’s Purple Rain and Madonna’s Like a Prayer. All great albums. But I’ve a feeling they’re about to be challenged.

Thriller is the monster from 1982. Seven hit singles. In fact, only two of the songs on the album were not released as singles. Can you name them?* It broke rock/pop and black/white barriers. The videos were epic and so were the concerts. However great it is, it never quite convinced me. No theme. Rubbish cover art. It was a collection of stand-alones, and not a body of work.

I feel the same with Madonna’s 1989 album, Like a Prayer.

Six hit singles out of 11 tracks. It’s got a theme, questioning relationships with her husband, Sean Penn, with family and her lost mum, and of course, with her faith. It had great videos and an awesome live tour. I know, because I was at Wembley Stadium in 1990 for her Blonde Ambition tour. But still a hint of a collection of hits, and not an ALBUM. And then there’s Prince's Purple Rain from 1984. It had a theme and the theme was a film. But it’s not profound. Rags-to-riches discovery of musical genius against the odds. Nine songs, five singles. Three songs are live recordings from a gig at the First Avenue nightclub filmed for the movie of the same name. Everyone talks about the title track, paticularly now Prince has passed. But “When Doves Cry” is unlike anything before, and the true gem.

Three great albums. The Holy Trinity. But I think we have to add another. Beyoncē's Lemonade.

Dropped at the end of April, I think it is a wonder and I’m not normally waggling my finger and booty and talking about all the single ladies.

First, it was a surprise release.

After the Super Bowl performance we knew something was coming, but then one day it was just there.

First a one-hour “visual album” played on HBO with a week’s notice. It was stunning as a film, and the music extraordinary. The moment the show finished, it was announced that the album was available from Beyoncē’s own streaming service.

Kerching! Let’s break the internet. The album itself had extra tracks and it is a wonder. It’s an album of suspicion and anger. There's your theme. The tension ramps up through each track, culminating in a scintillating track in conjuction with Jack White that is a contender for the best rock song this year. From Beyoncē! There's a track called “Freedom” that's better than the two done by George Michael. It contains a quote from the grandmother of her husband, Jay Z, at whom most of the anger is directed. Grandma Hattie said at her 90th birthday last year, “I had my ups and downs, but I always found the inner strength to pull myself up. I was served lemons, but I made lemonade”. A recording of that is on the record.

The album is about women, civil rights, cop brutality and personal observations from Beyoncē. It has a wonderful film. A wonderful flow, and it’s knocking commercial records on their ear. It's not a collection of singles, it's far too complex for that. It is the most complete multi-platform, multi-level work of art, yes art, I’ve experienced in an age — if not ever. And, yes, it goes beyond a record to being an experience. It’s beyond ..... man. Beyoncē.

Beyond.

It could very well be the GOAT of GOATs. Time will tell.

— Andrew Dickens *“Baby Be Mine” and “Lady in my Life”

He kids you not — a GOAT of an album. Lemonade cover image courtesy of Sony Music the hobson 49

the bookmark

June's Reading

SHOE DOG Phil Knight (Simon & Schuster) Knight, the man behind the swoosh, has written a memoir that’s candid, funny and riveting. It’s the inside story of Nike’s early days as an intrepid start-up and its evolution into one of the world’s most iconic, and profitable, brands. Above all, he recalls the relationships that formed the heart and soul of the business. Together, harnessing a bold vision and a shared belief in the transformative power of sport, Knight and his team created a brand and a culture. I don’t run, or even wear Nike, but I loved it.

GORDON BENNETT AND THE FIRST YACHT RACE ACROSS THE ATLANTIC Sam Jefferson (Allen & Unwin) The 1866 Transatlantic yacht race was a match that saw three yachts battle their way across the winter sea from New York to England, in pursuit of a rich prize pot, and glory. Six men died in the brutal contest, and the event changed the perception

of yachting from a rather languorous gentlemens’ pursuit into something altogether more rugged and adventurous.

There’s ample drama, and a diverse and eccentric range of characters (playboy millionaires included) ensure that this is a tale rich with human interest, scandal and adventure.

CHRONICLES Thomas Piketty (Penguin) For those of us who were daunted by 600plus pages of Capital in the Twenty-First Century, this is a compilation of the best of the French economist’s writing from the past 10 years. He addresses subjects ranging from wealth and inequality, to Europe and the global economy, from Obama to the migration crisis, with the same powerful evidence and range of reference as Capital.

WHY WE LOVE MUSIC John Powell (Hachette) Did you know that carrying a musical instrument makes you more attractive?

That music can change the taste of

wine? That music can reduce pain at the dentist — but only if the dentist lets you hold the volume control? Music affects us profoundly, it alters the way we think, talk, feel, behave and even spend. Scientist and musician Powell reviews decades of research to delve into music and emotions, music as medicine, music and intelligence and more, in this delightful journey through the psychology and science of music.

BARBARIAN DAYS: A SURFING LIFE William Finnegan (Hachette) Surfing only looks like a sport. To devotees, it is something else entirely: a beautiful addiction, a mental and physical study, a way of life. This is an old-school adventure story, a social history, an extraordinary exploration of one man’s gradual mastering of an exacting and little-understood art.

Winner of this year’s Pulitzer Prize for Biography, I’m in total agreement with The Guardian reviewer — “I don’t know anything about surfing, but I was gripped by the intensity of his language”.

— Gail Woodward

the cinema

The June Screen QUEEN OF THE DESERT

what exactly is it that he wants? This drama poses questions of morality, accountability and the very humanity that faces all of us when everything seems lost.

Director Werner Herzog. Starring Nicole Kidman, James Franco, Damian Lewis, Robert Pattinson.

This biopic narrates the extraordinary life of explorer, traveller, writer, political operative, mountaineer, cartologist and archaeologist Gertrude Bell (Kidman).

Described in one biography as “one of the few representatives of His Majesty’s Government remembered by the Arabs with anything resembling affection,” Bell’s contacts and understanding of the Middle East saw her influential in the establishment of modern Jordan and Iraq.

Bell interacts with many famous figures throughout the film, set in the first decades of the 20th century, and answered to no man, or woman, on her quest to see, and understand, the world.

ME BEFORE YOU Director Thea Sharrock. Starring Sam Claflin, Emilia Clarke, Jenna Coleman, Charles Dance. When small town girl Louisa (Clarke, without her Targaryenblonde Mother of Dragons do) takes a position as minder for the recently paralysed William (Claflin), she finds herself falling for the embittered but oddly charming man. A classic Brit romance showing love takes many forms, it’s based on the best-selling novel by Jojo Moyes, who also wrote the screenplay.

WEST OF EDEN

NOW YOU SEE ME: THE SECOND ACT Director Jon M Chu. Starring Mark Ruffalo, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Eisenberg, Morgan Freeman, Dave Franco, Woody Harrelson, Daniel Radcliffe, Michael Caine.

Famed illusionists the Four Horsemen (Caplan, Eisenberg, Franco, Harrelson) worked magic that enthralled the world before they disbanded. But they must reunite to perform an unprecedented, and seemingly unsurvivable, stunt to clear their names, exposing a tech magnate for the vile being he truly is. A sequel to the surprise crime caper hit, 2013’s Now You See Me, the all-star cast reprise their leading roles,

Wednesday 15 June From 6:30pm Book online www.rialto.co.nz

including return appearances from Caine and Freeman in supporting roles.

MONEY MONSTER Director Jodie Foster. Starring: George Clooney, Caitriona Balfe, Jack O’Connell, Julia Roberts, Dominic West.

When Kyle Budwell (O’Connell) loses all his money on a dodgy stock tip, he decides to take matters into his own hands. Desperate and angered, Budwell holds Wall Street guru Lee Gates (Clooney) and TV producer Patty Fenn (Roberts) hostage on live television, until he gets what he wants. But

Tickets*

$24 50

Tickets include a glass of wine & goodie bag. *Plus, $1.20 online booking fee.

Director Alastair Riddell. Starring Peter Ford, Kieran Foster, Peter Hansen, Vanessa Riddell, Luke Thompson. When local lad Billy (Foster) falls in love with affluent farmer’s son Tom (Thompson), all hell breaks loose in their small country town.

Fighting against the social and political norms of 1960s New Zealand, the two foster a relationship when all stands against them.

It’s director Riddell’s second feature (after 2014’s Broken Hallelujah) and his name will be familiar to Kiwi pop aficionados from his days fronting 1970s hit band, Space Waltz.

- Caitlin McKenna Films listed will screen at Rialto Cinemas Newmarket during June

the appetite

Winter Tastes

Sue Fleischl dishes up two recipes perfect for the change in seasons

Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs This recipe is a favourite of our head chef at Great Catering, Grant.

A great winter dish, it’s pure comfort food, and finger licking good!

Serves 4 2kg baby back ribs 3 spring onions, sliced Coriander and mint sprigs

Marinade 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 stalks of lemongrass, with the tough outer layer removed. Smash and finely chop the white ends 2 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp fish sauce 1 tbsp hot chili sauce (we use sambal oelek) 2 limes, zested and juiced 1 chili, seeds removed and chopped 2 tsp salt 2 tbsp brown sugar 2 tsp Chinese Five Spice 1 tbsp grated garlic 2 tbsp peeled and grated ginger

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Mix all the marinade ingredients together and pour over the racks of ribs in a deep baking or roasting dish. Use your hands to coat all the ribs with the marinade.

Refrigerate for at least two hours, or preferably overnight.

Heat oven to 230C. Add two cups of water to the pan around the ribs, cover tightly with foil and cook for 30 minutes. Reduce the oven to 180C, for one hour. The meat should be very tender. Remove foil, and return the ribs to the oven to brown, which should take about 15 minutes.

Remove the ribs and pour the juices into a pan. Reduce the liquid over a high heat

Sticky Banana Pudding This steamed banana pudding is a recipe I played with about 20 years ago, and to this day is one of my favourite dinner party desserts. It is dead easy!

Roasting the bananas intensifies the flavour, making it totally scrumptious.

Serves 4 until somewhat thickened (approximately five minutes). Meanwhile, divide the ribs with a sharp knife, and keep warm on a platter.

Preheat oven to 200C. Roast two ripe bananas in their skins for 15 minutes, until soft. Cool, peel and mash. Lower the oven temperature to 180C.

To serve, pour over the reduced sauce, garnish with sliced spring onions, coriander and mint sprigs, and serve with steamed rice.

Butterscotch Sauce 300g brown sugar 150g butter 225ml cream Combine ingredients in a pot, and bring to the boil, until thick. Set aside.

The ribs can be cooked a day in advance.

Leave the foil on and keep in the fridge until you’re ready to reheat and brown before serving.

Puddings 125g butter 125g caster sugar 2 eggs

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75g self raising flour ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp vanilla essence Cream the butter and sugar. Stir in the cooled, mashed bananas and the eggs, and sift in the flour and baking powder.

Add the vanilla essence. Using either individual moulds or ramekins (about half a cup in size), pour a tablespoon of the butterscotch sauce into each mould, and tilt to cover the sides and bottom.

Spoon in the mixture. Place the moulds into a baking dish, and pour water into the dish so it comes half way up the sides of the moulds (creating a bain marie, or water bath). Cover the entire dish with foil, and bake at 180C for 40 minutes.

Serve either in the ramekins or on a plate, with more butterscotch sauce and your favourite vanilla bean ice cream.

These puddings can be made a day or two in advance and reheated in the bain marie. The sauce can be made up to three days in advance.

Food photographed by Dominique White Photography

the district diary - june

monday tuesday wednesday thursday

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Saint Kentigern College campus tour, 9.15am. Please register at saintkentigern.com Learn about life in the Victorian kitchen when Highwic fires up the coal range. From 10.30am, Highwic, Mortimer Pass

Don't miss the Auckland Photographic Festival events around town, including the Ronald Winstone Collection, on display this month at Kinder House, Parnell. Open Thursday to Sunday, 10.30am - 6.30pm. kinder.org.nz

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Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday

St Cuthbert’s College Teacher-only day

King’s College Cricket Legends

Wriggle & Rhyme Active movement for babies to 2-year olds, 9.30 - 10am every Tuesday in term-time at Parnell Library

Rhymetime Song, stories and rhymes for 18-month to 3-year olds, Wednesdays during termtime, 11 - 11.30am at Parnell Library

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The Toy Library opens Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, 9 - 11.30am at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell (enter off Brighton Rd). Toys for indoors and out, games, DVDs. Info at FunAndGamesToyLibrary.org.nz

Book group at Remuera Library, held every second and fourth Tuesday, 11am

Minecraft club at Remuera Library, 4.30 - 5.30pm, bring your own device

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Last week of Term 2 Schools break up this Friday

Good luck to all the dance and backstage crews from local schools competing in the 2016 Stage Challenge, which starts tonight at the ASB Theatre

Dinner, Eden Park.

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Parnell U3A meets today, 9.30am, Jubilee Building, 545 Parnell Rd

Preschooler Storytime Stories and songs for 3 to 5-year olds.

Every Monday during term-time at Parnell Library, 11 - 11.30am

Got an entry for The District Diary?

Community groups, school news, local events welcome.

Email details to hobsondiary@gmail.com

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friday

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saturday sunday

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Parnell Farmers’ Market, every Saturday from 9am in the carpark at the Jubilee Building, 545 Parnell Rd

La Cigale French Market Saturday and Sunday mornings, 69 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell

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Tomorrow is Waipapa Stream Annual Planting and 20 volunteers are needed between 10am and noon at Parnell’s historic waterway. Register with rendell@nzevents.co.nz or call 027 660 2568

King’s College v Sacred Heart 1st XV rugby match, at Sacred Heart, 2.40pm kick-off

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Gladstone Tennis Club “Wimbledon White” cocktail party, 7.30pm, at the clubrooms. Tickets via admin@ gladstonetennis.co.nz or 021 423 060

Auckland Grammar School v King’s College 1st XV rugby match, at King’s, 2.40pm kickoff

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notes

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Saint Kentigern College v Grammar 1st XV rugby match, at St Kents, 2.40pm kick-off THE HOBSON July-August combined issue distributes into letterboxes this weekend

The work of Grammar student photographer Jono Norton is on our cover (read about him on page 8 ) — this is another of his sporting moments, taken at last June's Grammar v King’s 1st XV match.

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the cryptic by mĀyĀ

ACROSS 1 Correct, ice cap’s melting - but here, the team works to achieve sustainable goals (6,8) 9 Central Party member, Communist, is back home first (7) 10 Divorcée with male in a tree - that’s the limit! (7) 11 Materials from overfat cheeses (8) 12 Fear of initiating terrible mistake (6) 14 Bones: “It’s the beginnings of new and unusual life, sir, but not as we know it!” (5) 15 Wizard’s world with smallest golf course found above the Antarctic? (5,4) 17 Put half a type of icecream on head - could get slush (9) 19 Telegram from company head: “On island, heading west” (5) 21 Morality of drunkenness indicator amongst aliens (6)

23/22 Bird found in such unlikely surroundings to glide along part of the Hauraki Gulf (8,5) 25 They were fooled by a gifted horse (7) 26 Again permit proper depression (7) 27 Ragamuffin design on skin to deter furious Elsa, for example (14) DOWN 1 Staunchest Brit quails at this college!

(5,9) 2/6 Ask warm admirer to tea and opera (4,3,5) 3 Forever finish Patterson, say (9) 4 Western companions take in periodic table of the elements to get Aussie chicks (10) 5 Amazed by upset flask with top broken off (4) 6 See 2

7 In front of one’s leader, say happy farewell (7) 8 Where Reg’s going to rock out with pianist and composer (6,8) 13 E.g. rib about knockabout satire achieving small growth (6,4) 16 French Ila dazzles, serving Mexican dish (9) 18 A-OK hour spent in Papatoetoe (7) 20 Confining sick to a small room elevated microorganisms (7) 22 See 23 Across 24 Run, losing direction for a second, to get ruler (4)

Answers on page 21 Set by Māyā https://thehobsoncrossword.wordpress.com/

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