The Hobson October 16

october 2016

cross country season • meet the candidates local news, views & informed opinions

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King’s College, Golf Ave, Otahuhu www.kingscollegeartsale.co.nz

Save the date for our biggest fundraiser of the year, the King’s College Art Sale.

The Honeymooners’ Bed, by Peter Hackett (St John’s, 1975-78), Oil on canvas, 1560mm x 2160mm, $25,000

In its 13th successful year, the Art Sale will feature an impressive array of art from more than 200 emerging and established artists: from paintings, photography, and ceramics, through to glass and indoor and outdoor sculptures. Proceeds will go towards supporting a variety of sport, cultural, and arts initiatives at the College.

This remarkable art work shown above forms part of The Honeymooners’ Bed series, which exquisitely uses oil paints and a vivid palette to evoke the beauty of nature.

Opening Night Cocktail Party The Art Sale Opening Night Cocktail Party will be the first opportunity to view and purchase the unique artworks.

Proudly sponsored by

Date: Friday 4 November Time: 6.30pm Tickets: $65 per person. These can be purchased online via www.kingscollegeartsale.co.nz Admission to the Art Sale is free over the weekend Date: Saturday 5 November Time: 10am - 4pm Date: Sunday 6 November Time: 10am - 3pm, with collection of all purchased art from 3.30pm

Silver sponsors

Follow us on social media where we’ll feature regular updates on the art works to be displayed: @KingsCollegeArtSale #KingsArtSale2016

Telephone 09 815 4250 www.humphreyslandscaping.co.nz

HUM17 KCourier 95x95.indd 1

5/09/14 1:55 pm

The Tim and Sherrah Francis Collection 7—8 September 2016

Total sales of $7.2 million

The A+O team takes this opportunity to thank the New Zealand collectors who participated in this history-making auction event.

ART + OBJECT

The October Issue, No. 32 8

26

54

the editor’s letter

the sporting life

the sound

10

Our annual festival of local schools’ cross country events

It’s [not] all French to him — Andrew Dickens on why English is rock’s language

35

55

the columnists

12 the village Don't plan on catching a train from Parnell Station anytime soon, Sir Ed’s tractors chug into Grammar, artful times at King’s, Desley Simpson signs off as Orākei Local Board chair, and more

21 the reps News from local MPs David Seymour and Paul Goldsmith

22 the plan Being stuck in traffic gets Hamish Firth thinking of a way out of Auckland's congestion

23

the candidates The who, what and why of the Auckland mayoralty’s leading contenders, plus those seeking Council seats and local board spots for the Orākei and Waitematā wards

44 the pretty Justine Williams discovers the new and the lovely for spring

46 the magpie Spring clean and sort your nest with stylish tools for an organised life

the giveback From her kitchen bench, Lisa King started a food revolution with Eat My Lunch

Warren Couillault weighs the pros and cons with equities

50 the anniversary Past pupils look back at 60 years of Selwyn College

As the local elections near, Precious Clark questions true representation

52

the suburbanist

56 the check in Up, down, all around­— Louise Richardson with ideas for hot and cold travel

58 the cinema What’s screening this month, by Caitlin McKenna

59 the bookmark

60 the appetite From French soup to a US-inspired cake, Sue Fleischl sets a global table

the kaitiaki

25

Sandy Burgham on the fun of mid-life flatmates

Short, consciousness-raising reads, selected by Gail Woodward

49

the investment

24

the second act

62 the district diary Notable dates for October

the teacher

64

Wise words for parents of school-age children from Judi Paape

the cryptic

Auckland’s housing crisis is pain shared around the world, says Tommy Honey

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

Win! Enjoy a fun day out visiting private homes and gardens on the St Cuthbert’s House Tour. On Friday November 18, nine homes will open their doors to raise funds for the annual Kathleen Goulding scholarships supported by the school’s Old Girls’ Association.

The scholarships gift a St Cutherbert’s College education to five girls each year.

Courtesy of the House Tour organisers, we have two tickets to give away for one lucky reader, so you and a friend can enjoy the tour together. The tour starts at 10am, and the prize includes goodie bags too. You will need your own transport to get to the houses, which are situated in Remuera, Parnell, Orākei, St Heliers and Mt Eden.

To enter, email business@thehobson.co.nz with “House Tour” in the subject line by 5pm, Friday October 21. One winner will be selected at random.

The fine print: By entering, you agree that your name and contact details will be retained by THE HOBSON for our database purposes

the hobson 4

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issue 32, october 2016 Editor & Publisher Kirsty Cameron editor@thehobson.co.nz Art Direction & Production Stephen Penny design@thehobson.co.nz Writers Kirsty Cameron, Jessica-Belle Greer, Louise Richardson, Wayne Thompson, Justine Williams Sub-editor Fiona Wilson Social Media Editor Sarah Lynch Columnists & Contributors This Issue Sandy Burgham, Precious Clark, Warren Couillault, Andrew Dickens, Hamish Firth, Sue Fleischl, Paul Goldsmith, Tommy Honey, Māyā, Caitlin McKenna, Judi Paape, David Seymour, Desley Simpson, Fiona Wilson, Gail Woodward Photographers Vanita Andrews, Steve Bone Photography, BWMedia, Stephen Penny, Dominique White Cover Saint Kentigern Preschool boys pupils on their crosscountry fun run. Photo courtesy of Saint Kentigern.

See The Sporting Life, page 26 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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A

s you receive this issue of THE HOBSON, you’ll also be getting your voting papers for the Auckland local body elections. This magazine’s distribution area covers two local body wards. Remuera, Orākei and Meadowbank are three of the 10 suburbs within the Orākei ward of 79,500 people. Parnell and Newmarket are the eastern border of the 77,000-strong Waitematā ward, which stretches out to Westmere. Two wards, two local boards of seven members, and two councillors to select, or one each depending on which side of Bloodworth Park you live on. And we all get to cast our lot for one mayor to manage them all.

As we did for the national election in 2014, Zac Fleming was my choice to round up the candidates and put questions to them (see the story, page 35). Zac began writing for THE HOBSON as a final year AUT journalism student. He’s now a reporter for TVNZ, but has kept up his connection with us. With stories like this, it’s good to bring new voices to the table, in this case, a younger voter who doesn’t feel like anyone is talking about, or to, his generation. See his comments below, and as always, enjoy this issue.

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

“It was refreshing to not have to argue with any of the candidates about Auckland’s problems. Nobody tried to deny the severity of our housing or transport problems. Nobody thought people sleeping in cars was just something we should accept.

And ignoring for a second how depressing it is that things have gotten so bad they're impossible to deny, it left me more hopeful than normal that whoever our next mayor is will stick to their promises and really try to fix things.

But there's also a constant nagging in the back of my head: Fix things for whom?

It felt like none of the candidates I interviewed were actually talking to me, and I can't help but think it's because of my age.

I get it. I'm 24, my age bracket has the lowest voter turnout, retirees the highest. To get elected, candidates have to appeal to and appease baby boomers.

But baby boomers, by and large, aren't catching public transport to work every day.

They're not trying to save money to buy their first home, despite the average house being 22 times their yearly salary. Yet they're who's influencing candidates’ housing and transport policies.

Things obviously need to be balanced. I’m not advocating for a city built for the young that ignores the needs of everyone else.

It’s just after sitting down with our mayoral hopefuls, it feels like nobody is planning decades ahead. And that worries me, because in those future decades, I’ll probably still be catching the bus to work.” — Zac Fleming

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 Orākei. We also put copies into the Remuera and Parnell libraries and various dairies and cafes around the wider neighbourhood, including Newmarket. You can read back issues on our Facebook page, The Hobson Magazine. the hobson 8

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C O L L E C T I O N

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 Precious Clark (The Kaitiaki) is a professional director who sits on several boards, and a young leader of Ngāti Whātua. A law graduate, she lives in Orākei.

Remuera resident Warren Couillault (The Investment) is an executive director and the major shareholder of Macquarie Equities NZ Ltd, a private wealth advisory group. He is a shareholder and director of Generate Investment Management Ltd; and manager of a registered Kiwisaver scheme.

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

Hamish Firth (The Plan) lives and works in Parnell and is principal of the Mt Hobson Group, a specialist urban planning consultancy. www.mthobsonproperties.co.nz 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

ED'S LEGACY GOES SOUTH Auckland Grammar School was one of the first stops on a historic, unusual, journey to raise funds to preserve Sir Edmund Hillary’s Antarctic legacy.

“Expedition South” is the Antarctic Heritage Trust’s fundraising drive to restore the Hillary Hut in Antarctica. A team of three Massey Ferguson tractors — the same make of vehicle Sir Ed used to travel the 2012km from Scott Base to the South Pole — is travelling that same distance to raise awareness and gather funds for the hut’s restoration. The tractors left from Piha, close to the Hillary bach at Anawhata, in late August. The fundraising route would take them 2012km to Aorangi Mt Cook, another location closely connected with Sir Ed. After his conquest of Mt Everest in 1955, Sir Ed was chosen to help lead the Trans-Antarctic Expedition in 1957/58. Two teams were formed, the crossing party lead by Sir Vivian Fuchs, and the Ross Sea support party, lead by Sir Ed. His team were charged with building a base at McMurdo Sound, establishing a route onto the polar plateau and laying down supplies for Fuchs’ team. Hillary’s Hut was the first building they constructed. After the work was

done, Sir Ed, along with Peter Mulgrew, Murray Ellis, Jim Bates and Derek Wright, travelled on Ferguson TE-20 tractors to the South Pole, arriving on January 4, 1958; becoming the first overland expedition to reach the pole since Sir Robert Falcon Scott in 1912, and the first to do so on motor vehicles.

A Grammar old boy, the school was one of the Auckland city stops on the first days of the great drive south, Sir Edmund Hillary College in South Auckland another. Along the way to Mt Cook, the public were encouraged to “Give a Fiver to the Driver”, the $5 note bearing the image of the late explorer, who died in 2008.

Sir Ed's widow, June, Lady Hillary, and Grammar pupils with one of the tractors at the start of its drive to Mt Cook. At the breakfast launch of Expedition South, from left, Antarctic Heritage Trust executive director Nigel Watson, trustees Sir Chris Mace and Roy Dillon, guest speaker, Sir Ed's son and explorer Peter Hillary, and MP and polar trekker, Andrew Bayly. Grammar photo courtesy of Steve Bone Photography the hobson 12

For further information about Sir Ed’s Antarctic legacy, visit nzaht.org. To donate online and follow the project, see expeditionsouth.nz. A Givealittle page has also been established: givealittle.co.nz/cause/expeditionsouth p

THE TRAIN IS LATE, AGAIN Auckland Transport is signalling a green light for use of Parnell Station from early in the new year — regardless of who wins the stoush over traffic management around the Sarawia St level crossing near Newmarket.

The new station has been mooted since 2005 to serve Parnell, university students and visitors to the Auckland Museum. But it’s taking longer to build than the main trunk line’s engineering masterpiece, the Raurimu Spiral, and its story has as many turns.

(See “Parnell Train Station — A Long Time Coming,” in the May issue).

The $7.6 million station project is set for development in two stages, starting with a basic facility, but equipped with the latest ticket gates.

Last month, a visit to the bleak Waipapa Gully site revealed two platforms, an access road, some gravel paths, and a friendlier replacement for a spooky track underpass into the sylvan cloisters of The Domain. You have to imagine the gracious presence of the heritage Newmarket station building that KiwiRail promises to truck in from its vandal-free storage, where it’s been mothballed since 2008.

That will happen, soon, says the rail corridor managing body, KiwiRail. A spokesperson told THE HOBSON that the station building is planned to be on site in December, when KiwiRail will start restoring the exterior of the structure. This could take several months with a programmed completion early next year.

Upon completion of the KiwiRail part of the works, the interior will be fitted out and restored by Auckland Transport (AT), along with completion of the platform construction on the eastern side.

Additionally, the Waitematā Local Board has earmarked $350,000 towards a connecting pathway to link the station with easy pedestrian access to Stanley St, an important link for foot traffic to Auckland and AUT universities.

In a change to previous statements, both AT and KiwiRail say the station can be open to limited services ahead of the Sarawia St level crossing replacement. Level crossings are being phased out around the city. AT proposes building a new 260m road and a bridge over the railway line, to give Laxon Tce and Youngs Lane access to Parnell Rd via Cowie St. Presently, Laxon and Youngs traffic can only exit via the level crossing to Sarawia St. There is no egress to Middleton Rd via adjacent Broadway Park.

An AT spokesman says the project has a resource consent, and its notice of requirement for a designation was approved by Auckland Council in July.

However, this has been appealed by members of the Cowie Street Residents’ Group.

The AT spokesman says the station at Parnell can open to limited rail services while the Sarawia St level crossing is open. It is still working out a timetable, says the spokesman. “At this stage, the frequency we are looking at would be every 10 minutes from Newmarket and the same from Britomart. The timetable won’t be finalised till late this year. We are having to reconfigure the full timetable to fit in the Parnell stop from early 2017.”

That is more optimistic talk than what Parnell people heard late last year.

the village

Back then, KiwiRail requested that the Sarawia St crossing be removed before the Parnell station became operational.

This was because the location of the station in relation to Newmarket, and the crossing, required reconfiguration of signalling, which was both time-consuming and costly, and would increase risks to both road and rail users at the site.

Presently, the crossing delays rail services while waiting for the barrier arms to open and close and let traffic through. The busiest section of rail in the country, about 10 trains an hour come by.

Closure of the crossing will boost this by four trains under the existing signal regime.

The KiwiRail spokesperson told THE HOBSON that it and AT have done further timetable modelling.

“This work has demonstrated that a timetable can be designed for limited trains to stop at Parnell with the current signalling infrastructure.

“The Sarawia St signalling and crossing arrangement remains a constraint to capacity and resilience, and KiwiRail is working with AT to support grade separated road/rail there.

“The solution can only be described as temporary and far less than what can be achieved if the Sarawia crossing is closed.”

The opening date for the platform is yet to be confirmed by AT. The drawn out process is frustrating, says Mike Lee, councillor for the Waitematā ward (which covers Newmarket and Parnell), and a Council representative on the AT board. He says the station had been promised to be open at Easter next year for limited services but he suspected further delays.

“I am also really concerned that the Parnell business community is missing out from cruise ship visitors, who could easily be encouraged to take the train from Britomart up for shopping and lunch at the village, and onto Newmarket,” says Lee. Previously in THE HOBSON, Councillor Lee has said AT has continually postponed completing the station, and seemed suspiciously like it was using the Environment Court proceedings

by Cowie St residents as a reason to delay opening the station for full services.

The Cowie Street Residents’ Association, Parnell Community Committee and Parnell Inc all say an underpass would be cheaper and have less effect on the amenity values of the street, than a new

bridge. The underpass would be from Laxon Tce to Sarawia St, unlike the bridge which would connect from Cowie St instead. This was opposed by the Laxon Tce and Youngs Lane Residents’ Group.

The Cowie St group believe that AT failed to consider their alternative adequately. However, they would not talk to THE HOBSON ahead of mediation, which is part of the appeal to the Environment Court.

We’ll keep you posted. — Wayne Thompson p

THE ART OF THE MATTER King’s College is about to have $1 million worth of art walk through its gym doors for its annual art fundraising event.

Held the first weekend of November at the college’s Otahuhu campus, the King’s Art Sale will showcase about 1000 pieces from around 200 artists who work in all artistic disciplines, from sculpture to photography. Award-winning photographer Emma Bass, for example, is showing her limited edition floral still lifes (Love Lies Bleeding, pictured opposite). And around 60 students will exhibit their artwork beside renowned artists.

Head of the 32-parent strong Art Sale Committee, Sara Weatherall, says the sale, now in its 13th year, is “no small feat”. But it is a continued success because of the huge range of art on display.

“The key to it is having good art and having a broad range of art that appeals to lots of different people.”

Weatherall says the artists are the stars of the show. This year, her favourite piece is a floral oil on canvas painting by Peter Hackett, The Honeymooners’ Bed. Hackett is one of four old collegians showing.

“I think that the art creates a beautiful focal point to allow the school community to group together to support the college,” says Weatherall. “We couldn’t do it without the amazing artists we tap into out there.”

She says the people with a passion for art involved with the school over the years have built up a reputation and sense of enthusiasm for the event.

“It continues to have that energy and freshness as there are new people coming into the art committee.”

the hobson 14

Last year the fundraising event, including an opening night cocktail party for over 400 revellers, raised $93,000. Funds helped improve a range of facilities including a larger kiln, musical instruments, sponsorship of an artists-in-residence programme and three mobile cricket cages.

One artist-in-residence, old boy Andrew Barns-Graham, shared his practical knowledge with students in a painting technique workshop. This class may pay off for some of the students, with three student art prizes being awarded on opening night of this year’s event. The prizes will be judged in visual art, photography and technology categories.

Barns-Graham, who paints modern portraits of idealised beauty, will have some work displayed in the exhibition this year, alongside next term’s artist-in-residence, Michel Tuffery, who works on multi-media installations with contemporary and historic elements.

Weatherall told THE HOBSON that the outdoor art will be a stand-out at the exhibition, looking “stunning” around the school’s grounds. There will also be a café run by parents, for those in need of a coffee break between canvases.

The Art Sale Committee works behind-the-scenes on tasks including administration and social media to ensure the event runs smoothly and attracts a wide audience, respectively. You can follow the sale on Facebook, Instagram (@kingscollegesartsale) and via the hashtag, #KingsArtSale2016.

The website, kingscollegeartssale.co.nz, is now previewing artworks, with prices and dimensions. Buyers are best to get in quick — in previous years many pieces were snapped up on opening night. Tickets are available to the Friday night cocktail party through the website. Entry on November 5 and 6 is free.

— Jessica-Belle Greer p

the hobson 15

the village

a partnership programme with schools that empowers teenagers to understand and improve their own health, and take steps to avoid serious health issues in the future such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. p

START YOUR ORDERS . . .

A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME The annual Parnell Festival of the Roses is set for Sunday November 13, and this year the late-blooming, ruby-red “Parnell Heritage” rose will be available to buy.

The limited edition scented rose was developed by Bell Roses from a French stock rose in 2005. “Parnell Heritage” flowers through to autumn. A bed of 36 have been planted in the Rose Gardens, and stock available for home gardeners will be for sale at the Parnell Heritage stand during the festival day, along with copies of the society’s latest Journal. p

CHARITABLE HOTEL GIVES BACK IN A BIG WAY

Speed and agility will be of the essence when the annual Waiters’ Race day gets underway in Parnell on Sunday, October 16.

“The Parnell hospitality sector challenges all Auckland restaurants in this well-respected event that acknowledges the waiting profession,” says Parnell Inc general manager, Cheryl Adamson.

This year, starters include staff from Antoines, Woodpecker Hill, The French Cafe and Soul Bar & Bistro. Last time the event was held, first place overall was taken by Non Solo Pizza’s Alex Mladenovski. Event sponsors include Renault NZ and reservations app, ResDiary. Renault is offering the first place-getter the use of a Renault Captur for a year. Races will start from Heard Park at 11am, under an especially-constructed Eiffel Tower. p Gladstone Rd’s Quality Hotel Parnell — the former Barrycourt — has made a substantial donation of $450,000 to the Liggins Institute.

The donation is made possible due to the charitable nature of the hotel. A foundation established by the late owner, Norman Barry, uses all profits outside of operating costs and an improvements allowance to support healthcare research.

The Liggins Institute, a multi-disciplinary research centre at the University of Auckland, works to improve life-long health through research into the long-term consequences of early life events.

“Mr Barry would be proud to know his hotel’s generous donation is going towards such a worthy initiative,” says John Smith, chairman of the Norman F B Barry Foundation, pictured right, with University of Auckland vice chancellor, Stuart McCutcheon.

Wayne Darbyshire, general manager of the hotel, says the donation will support the hobson 16

BARADENE’S HISTORY HONOURS A history of an aspect of World War I co-written by senior students at Remuera’s Baradene College of the Sacred Heart is one of the first items to be exhibited at the new Queen Elizabeth II Pukeahu Education Centre, at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in central Wellington. Opened by the governor-general, Sir Jerry Mateparae and the prime minister, the Right Hon. John Key, the centre is the gift from New Zealand to Queen Elizabeth II in honour of her 90th birthday. ➤

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On your marks ... ready ... set ... wait!

It’s the 2016 Parnell Waiters’ Race.

Baradene’s La Bataille de la Conscience/The Battle of Conscience was written with pupils from Lycée Professionnel Jean Macé, in Chauny, France, after students visited the school during 2015’s history trip. The 60-page-book and accompanying posters look at the treatment of conscientious objectors in both France and NZ during WWI, and disobedience by soldiers. It was formally launched last year with ceremonies in France, and locally at the Remuera Library last June.

“This is a great end for our project, which will now be housed in Wellington at this centre for students to do research, using our exhibition posters and the book that students published,” says Brent Coutts, Baradene’s head of social science.

As a dedicated education centre, students will be able to learn and do their own research into the impact of war on New Zealand, and gain a deeper understanding of this country’s role in peacekeeping activities throughout the world. Situated in the historic former Home of Compassion Crèche, the education centre will be a valuable asset in the park, with more than 12,000 students currently visiting the national war memorial annually. p

The napkin has been thrown down! The challenge is out there for Auckland Restaurants to register their fittest and their finest waiters to represent their restaurant in the PARNELL WAITERS’ RACE on the 16th Oct. Come and watch as waiters test their agility, skill, professionalism and speed in order to win the use of a Renault for a year. Heard Park will be hosting an impressive Renault Eiffel Tower that stands over 10 metres tall!

Save the date, October 16 at 11am, come rain or shine! www.parnell.net.nz for more info.

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Top: Sir Jerry Mateparae with Baradene pupils Olivia Mendonca and Genevieve Bowler at the opening. Below, Baradene social science head Brent Coutts and principal Sandy Pasley with the students in Wellington

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The Remuera Residents’ Association has raised concerns over the future of the building at 4 Victoria Ave, which houses the Citizens Advice Bureau and Plunket nurse, and for redevelopment plans nearby. We plan to cover this issue in depth in our November edition. p

the board

Desley Signs Off

H

aving chaired 90 board meetings, led more than 130 workshops and countless engagement sessions and public meetings over the past six years, it is with some sadness but with a humbling sense of pride that I write my last column as Orākei Local Board chair.

When I look at the many board achievements, the advocacy we have done and the community interaction, I “retire” with a sense of knowing that we have worked well as a team and delivered for our many Orākei ward communities.

As to our overall strategy, it’s important to note that all the board’s key achievements come directly in response to submissions by residents and ratepayers.

Our Orākei Local Board Plan reflected community aspirations and projects they felt were important to them. To that end, I know that the significant work we have done across the many portfolios to have quality parks, reserves and places to be active, protected built and natural heritage, distinctive town centres and a thriving local economy, enhanced libraries, tree-lined suburbs, better waterways and the like, were reflected in our plan.

The Orākei Local Board has always promised transparency to our ratepayers. Our achievements’ report was written to tangibly show our community exactly what we had done. Hard copies are available at our office, community centres and libraries, and online at aucklandcouncil. govt.nz via the “About Council” menu under “representative bodies”.

Achieving a multi-million dollar sportsfield investment at Ngahue Reserve for community use (at no cost to ratepayers) has been a major achievement, as was our advocacy to central government for the shared path for walkers and cyclists from Glen Innes to Tamaki Drive. The first stage is due for completion this month.

Financially, we have performed the best of all local boards within the former Auckland City Council boundary. It’s important for our community to know that, as it is the communities’ rates money that has provided the income for our spend. What continues to challenge the board is the amount of

rates contribution we pay, versus the investment back into our ward. Over the last three years we have contributed $320 million in rates, yet only had $6 million of discretionary money to spend locally.

Following on from our successful Orākei Basin walkway network, the Hobson Bay walkway connecting Orākei Train Station to Shore Rd was a major project for the board. This came in well under budget and is well-loved and utilised. Adding children’s art to this walkway has given our young people a further opportunity to showcase their talents, following on from the successful sculptures on the walkway behind Saint Kentigern Boys’ School. The history of the area is also reflected by way of a pou, and signage acknowledging the route runs through the western face of a former Ngāti Whātua Orākei pa site.

We have completed perimeter paths around most of our sports parks, many with additional seating. This has enabled our community to have safer, more connected, access to some of our great parks. Within Kepa Bush and Churchill Park, we have upgraded the walking tracks and replaced aging bridge assets to improve safety for users.

A key strategic driver for the board was listening to our community. We now have a residents’ association covering each of our 10 suburbs. They are our eyes and ears, and it’s through them we communicate regularly to seek guidance and feedback. We support these residents’ associations financially to assist with costs.

Keeping our ward safe is also important. We supported the start-up of community patrols in both Ellerslie and Orākei, and support the many community volunteers who give up their time to keep our residents and ratepayers safe.

Having been actively involved in walkway planning and delivery in my former role as chair of the Hobson Community Board (along with Colin Davis, from the former Eastern Bays Community Board), we successfully advocated to the mayor and councillors for a local role in the governance of this regional

Simpson, centre, with OLB colleagues, from left, Troy Churton, Colin Davis, Kate Cooke and Kit Parkinson at the St Chads' hall after her final meeting (members Mark Thomas and Ken Baguley had to leave earlier); and below, with local business association managers, from left, Laura Carr (Remuera), Wendy Caspersonn (St Heliers) and Megan Darrow (Ellerslie) the hobson 19

the boards

PAUL GOLDSMITH NATIONAL LIST MP BASED IN EPSOM

107 Great South Road, Greenlane PO Box 26 153 Epsom, Auckland 1344 P: 09 524 4930 E: paul.goldsmith@parliament.govt.nz W: www.paulgoldsmith.co.nz facebook.com/PaulGoldsmithNZ Funded by Parliamentary Service and authorised by Paul Goldsmith 107 Great South Rd Auckland

State

www.national.org.nz

Grace

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asset. The Orākei Basin Advisory Group (OBAG) was formed to ensure that the community and users of the Orākei Basin were involved in the project planning in and around the Basin.

It is important that I acknowledge and thank my team: Kit Parkinson (the current board deputy), Ken Baguley, Kate Cooke, Troy Churton, Colin Davis, and Mark Thomas.

Collectively we have worked well, and while they have certainly given me some challenges as chair, our collective teamwork has ensured projects have progressed in a timely manner and have been delivered well.

Highlights of achievements include, but aren’t limited to: Kit Parkinson — Parks Portfolio Lead — has delivered 19 new or upgraded sportsfields, new cricket nets, tennis and basketball equipment and upgraded six playgrounds Ken Baguley — Transport Portfolio Lead — has delivered a sound spend of the capital transport fund with speed signage, intersection upgrades, cycle storage at train stations, footpath upgrades, and led our Greenways Plan development Colin Davis — Heritage and Environment Portfolios Lead — has led environmental initiatives across the ward, including planting, stream upgrades, acknowledgment of European history with signage at Biddick’s Bay, and the facilitation of a “History of Ellerslie” publication.

Troy Churton — Regulatory and Planning Portfolio Lead — has led the board hearings panel on dog access by-laws, and the review of alcohol bans in our parks and public spaces Mark Thomas — Economic Development and Urban Design Portfolios Lead — has supported our business associations, and assisted in the upgrade of Remuera’s Laneway and Village Green areas Kate Cooke — Arts and Culture Portfolio Lead — led the installation of the mosaic artwork at Mission Bay, and initiated the restoration of the Walsh Brothers Memorial on Selwyn Reserve, which included the reinstatement of the sundial at no cost to ratepayers While not all of the current members are standing in the upcoming election, we will continue to work on your behalf right up to election day.

Finally and certainly not the least of all, I thank you, the community, for your support, input and involvement. We could not have done what we have without you.

It has, without doubt, been a privilege and an honour to serve our communities and residents as the Orākei Local Board chair from 2010 to 2016.

Thank you. — Desley Simpson, chair, Orākei Local Board Editor’s note: Desley Simpson is standing for election as Orākei ward councillor. See story, page 35.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ANSWERS (page 64)

09 527 0366 0800 764 327 www.stateofgrace.net.nz

Across: 1 Winnie-the-Pooh, 10/11 Queen Elizabeth, 12 Illicit, 14 Diehard, 15 Nonagenarian, 19 Rental income, 24 Neon gas, 25 Inroads, 26 Gunstocks, 27 Betel, 28 Assassination.

Down: 2 Ideals, 3 Nun, 4 Electra, 5 Hair dye, 6 Plate warmer, 7 Operatic, 8 Equip, 9 Shading, 13 Coolangatta, 16 Gin, 17 Bronagh, 18 Antoines, 20 Insects, 21 Caisson, 22 Tattoo, 23 Psalm, 27 Bit.

the reps

DAVID SEYMOUR

PAUL GOLDSMITH

W

F

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

David Seymour is the MP for Epsom.

atching wave after wave of predominantly skinny kids charging about the field at Remuera Primary’s ‘run-swim-run’ last summer, I was struck by the irony that, in the developed world at least, obesity is relatively rare in wealthier communities and increasingly prevalent in poorer communities.

The reasons for this are complex, but choices around food and drink, lifestyle and activity have a significant bearing.

We know that some of the easiest to get, and cheapest, food and drink can be the most heavily laden with sugar and fat.

It is concerning that New Zealand has the third highest rate of adult obesity among OECD countries. In 2014/15, 11 per cent of all children aged 2-14 years were categorised as obese. Figures for Maori and Pacifica children are 15 and 30 per cent respectively. We all want to reduce those rates.

Our government hasn’t favoured heavy-handed rules and taxes to bring about change, because we think that Kiwis should be free to make choices and take responsibility.

But we do have a well-thought-through Child Obesity Plan. Its focus is on children, as that’s where the evidence shows we can make a considerable difference.

Schools have an important role to play in influencing physical activity and food choices. The new Raising Healthy Kids target has been introduced from July 1 to bring a clinical focus to childhood obesity, and is a starting point while the health system responds and focuses its work in this area.

Under the new target, where a child is identified via school as not being the optimum weight, a health professional will offer the caregiver a referral for the child to a registered health professional in a primary care or community setting.

This will ensure robust clinical assessment occurs, followed by advice on nutrition, activity and lifestyle. It will provide continuity of care for the child across their lifespan.

Our target by December 2017 is for 95 per cent of children identified as obese to be referred on for support into a healthy weight. That’s around 4000 children a year.

There is also the B4 School Check, a free health and development check for four-year-olds to identify and address any health, behavioural, social or development concerns which could affect a child’s ability to get the most benefit from school. Over 58,600 children have benefited from this free service in the past year. Of that number, over 1400 were referred on. Politicians and health professionals have been talking for decades about re-balancing our investment in health away from simply treating problems to also including real efforts to prevent ill-health. I’m pleased that this government has been serious about doing just that, as we already have with a massive increase in vaccination rates and efforts to reduce smoking.

My hope is that the waves of predominately skinny kids charging about fields will remain a common sight at all schools in years to come.

rom 1902 to 1956, Greenlane was the home to the Auckland Electric Tram Company depot. It is now home to one of Auckland’s biggest motorway interchanges, and recently, to several attacks on local schoolchildren having bikes and phones stolen, in one case at knifepoint.

I asked local residents for their thoughts at a public meeting. The police, school principals, representatives of Auckland Transport (AT) and Councillor Christine Fletcher were all present, along with 100 concerned parents. A few things became clear. One is the understandable strength of feeling from parents who simply want their children at Remuera Intermediate and Cornwall Park District School to be able to walk home safely. Another is concern for the perpetrators — some pointed out that they are not much older than the victims. Making the walk home from school safe is going to require multiple agencies doing their bit.

The police believe it stems from car window-washers and associates who use the unsecured train station to access the area. Compounding this is the very poorly designed Greenlane roundabout pedestrian passage: tunnels under the onramps, with a bridge across the motorway. With limited lighting and poor sightlines, it shows how not to do CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design).

The police, as well as the school liaison officer, have been excellent in their attention to the problem, but they cannot station an officer there before and after school every day.

The good news is our community is taking action. As a result of that public meeting, Transdev (security for AT) has introduced security guards on the Greenlane station platform, while parents at Remuera Intermediate are scheduling patrols. However there are longer-term undertakings that I will continue to work on.

I have been in discussion with the CEO of AT. Along with councillors Fletcher and Mike Lee, I am advancing the case for better lighting, security gates and CCTV around the interchange. MPs can’t control AT, a local government agency, but I am giving them every encouragement. Council must also ask whether it’s possible to run a serious train network without dedicated transit police.

I have approached the Minister of Transport because the pedestrian passageway is part of State Highway One, and therefore a central government asset. Local businesses have offered funds to help with the upgrade.

Finally, we are in need of a law change from the Minister of Local Government. Window-washers, and perhaps those who pay them, should be subject to instant fines. I am petitioning the minister to take this issue on as policy. If you’d like to add your support, you can sign online: www. tinyurl.com/greenlaneintersection. Suffice to say, there will be more complex problems like this one as the city grows, however, I am always proud to be part of the solution as your local MP.

the plan

Driving Us to Despair

M

y crystal ball tells me that soon, the politically leftleaning and long-time Labour MP, Phil Goff, will be the new Mayor of Auckland. That is because he will get more votes than his main competitor, with the three right-leaning candidates left to split the balance of the vote.

Having recently hosted a mayoral forum, I had the pleasure of seeing the four main candidates up close, and posed them questions about some of the big issues facing Auckland. I was impressed with Mr Goff’s delivery and style. If he ever retires from politics he would make a great preacher, like one of those TV evangelists with great names like Creflo Dollar.

Speaking of Phil Goff, he was candid about transport and traffic congestion. He wants to spend $2 billion building a light rail that will start on Symonds St and move to Dominion Rd, and then spread this concept to allow us all to move about with freedom. Traffic problem solved. He proposes to pay for this by bringing in a regional fuel tax, and tolling on our motorways.

I repeat: He proposes to pay for this by bringing in a regional fuel tax and tolling on our motorways.

To impose a regional fuel tax requires central government approval, and they have stated that this will not happen on their watch. The AA notes that when you last purchased fuel, around 67 cents per litre was collected by the government as fuel excise (read tax). This excludes the 15 per cent GST component.

So motorway tolls it is. We will all have GPS units in our cars that record our motorway movements and charge us accordingly. Once the general populace understands this, I am sure there will be outrage. And I am sure the set up costs, and tax collected, will not meet the never-costed light rail system.

But we have been warned, Phil Goff has been very candid on this matter.

You get nothing for nothing. Every day traffic congestion and our moaning about it gets worse. Coming back from Northland

on a recent Sunday afternoon, I sat in mind-numbing, bumper to bumper traffic at Warkworth for 20 minutes, and then at Puhoi for 15 minutes. This was not a public holiday or a summer weekend, just a dreary Sunday in July. Light rail will not solve that. Not even close, and it will not help people in south or west Auckland get to work every day, but it will cost more to use something that now becomes an income stream.

I come back to the 67 cents a litre fuel tax we already pay, and ask the question — are Aucklanders getting their fair share, or is it being used efficiently? Having been in the US recently, I took the time to read about the issues facing Americans. By and large they are the same as ours, only on a bigger scale.

However their gas is cheap compared to ours — they pay around 50c a litre ($2 a gallon), and we currently pay around $1.90 a litre. The New York Times reports that while gas at the pump is a bargain, the drivers of the state of New Jersey pay in other ways, the big one being congestion and the other being deterioration of the roads and bridges, to a point where the potholes cause motoring delays. New Jersians pay just 3.8c a litre in tax, and while this is recognised as being insufficient to improve, let alone maintain the roads, the proposed price increase to provide solutions is still not 10 per cent of what we pay. Now we are being taxed at 67c a litre and Phil Goff wants more, with a solution that will not solve the problem.

We need to look differently at how we live and interact. We need to reduce the cars on the roads by making it easier for people to live and work in the same area. We need to create communities where you do not have to travel from one side of Auckland to the other every day. We now have the new Unitary Plan, which will only make Auckland a bigger part of the New Zealand economy. But it cannot just be about housing more people, it needs to be about creating communities, cities within a city. Otherwise we will moan more about the traffic, and the fuel tax, and the tolls, but nothing will change.

— Hamish Firth

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the hobson 22

the investment

The Search for Yield

S

omething peculiar crossed my desk a couple of weeks ago.

It was a notice from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to say that it was considering an offer of bonds, with the following key terms: the interest rate was 2.915 per cent and the maturity was 2037. That is, if you were to buy $100,000 of these bonds, you would receive a pre-tax interest payment of just $2,915 each year for the next 21 years through to 2037.

My – and no doubt your – reaction to this low interest rate and long maturity was, “who’s going to be interested in investing for such a low interest rate for such a long time?” Well it turns out there was a lot of interest in these bonds, because the RBNZ sold around $2 billion of them! The question is, why?

The answer is a dearth of decent income-generating securities or yield opportunities around the world — ie, low, low interest rates everywhere. And when one considers that around 20 per cent of all government bonds are currently paying negative interest rates, and most others approaching zero, it’s a little easier to see why the RBNZ’s 2 per cent-plus offer might be attractive.

This observation led me to think a little more about the search for yield in this current, record-low interest rate world.

An environment of weak/no inflation, low economic growth and ongoing supportive monetary policy (including printing money), suggests there will be limited alternatives for high quality yield for quite some time. Note, the RBNZ recently announced another 0.25 per cent cut to the official cash rate, taking it to 2.00 per cent. In my view and particularly if the New Zealand dollar does not weaken from current levels, the RBNZ may have to make further cuts in 2016/17.

With interest rates so low, and maybe likely to go lower and stay there for longer, the search for yield inevitably and naturally leads investors to take on more risk by investing in equities (one of the reasons share markets have been so strong and remain at high levels). Investors looking for yield in the equities market tend to look at companies with relatively high dividend yields, and those with strong earnings projections to sustain higher future dividends. Looking for a company with sustainable earnings growth that is able to support its dividend over the long term, should be the overriding objective for investors when looking at the equites markets for yield.

But does scouring the equities markets for yield come with additional risk? Yes! The key risks of high dividend-paying stocks are their potential inability to continue making dividend payments (ie, if profits fall then typically, so do dividends). As economic growth moderates, continuing to pay high prices for stocks which have unsustainable dividend growth is increasingly high risk. The other key risk to high dividend-yield stocks is that of the eventual increase in broader interest rates, making the dividend yield look relatively less attractive. Interest rates will eventually moderate and when interest rates rise, it will inevitably lead to a decrease in demand for high dividend stocks, resulting in falling stock prices.

So the answer in looking for a higher yield? Don’t take on too much additional risk (remember the finance companies . . .) but look at supplementing the traditional fixed-income allocation in your portfolio with some high quality, defensive, stable equities that offer direct dividend yields. But keep a weather-eye on big changes on the horizon which will derail this higher-yield approach: slowing economy and reversion to a more normal higher interest rate environment.

— Warren Couillault

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the kaitiaki

Globally Hot, Locally Not

O

ver the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of hosting two incredible international heavyweights at Orākei Marae, who weighed in on the conversation about culture, diversity and inclusion.

Dr Fons Trompenaars, an organizational theorist, and as it turns out, also a stand-up comedian, was quick to highlight the importance of embracing culture and cultural differences to achieve success in business.

With Fons’s korero still fresh in my mind, Lord Michael Hastings’ insistence that integrating diversity and inclusion into business priorities leads to business success, resonated (he was in town as part of his role as KPMG’s global head of citizenship and diversity). Business being a subset of community, one can extrapolate that embracing cultural differences, diversity and inclusion, also leads to community success, which has a flow-on effect regionally and nationally.

Globally this message is gaining traction and business leaders are finding ways to allow their greatest assets – their staff — to bring their entire selves to work, and finding ways to capture their unique cultural contributions to drive innovation in the business. They are shifting their recruitment practices to achieve it.

I get a sense the tide is shifting in Aotearoa also. Where I have often said Māori culture is globally hot, locally not, I sense the private sector here is catching on to the value of Māori culture to NZ Inc, and looking for meaningful ways to engage Māori. Māori culture is becoming locally hot.

I’m not so sure we are as mature when it comes to local body or national elections. As a new resident to Orākei, I have been taking note of the local election billboards, and it struck me about the lack of diversity. Of the 14 candidates vying for the Orākei Local Board, I can only identify two as being culturally different from the main population, despite the Orākei population being made up of 27 per cent non-Pakeha.

The candidates, as well-meaning as they are, don’t accurately

reflect the community. Don’t even get me started on age. I guess our saving grace is that we have a balanced gender spread.

It’s easy to say that anyone can run for these positions, and the issue is that young people and people of other cultures don’t run, but how well does democracy serve the goal of diversity? And how successful can our community, and indeed our city, be without diversity and inclusion? How easy is it to introduce new cultural frameworks for thinking at the decision making level, if the decision makers are monocultural?

It was a real honour to welcome Dr Trompenaars and then Lord Hastings with a traditional Māori welcome that allowed us to showcase the best of our culture. More importantly, it provided an opportunity to have a deep dive into our culture with the purpose of increasing understanding. It was enriching to them to take a tour of our whenua at Orākei, and to talk about the range of initiatives Ngāti Whātua Orākei has initiated, like the Okahu Rakau programme that replants the Takaparawhau (Bastion Point) headlands with organicallygrown indigenous flora, our puna reo (early childhood centre) aimed at revitalising te reo Māori and our recent Kāinga Tuatahi development that has provided brand new homes for 30 of our whanau. All initiatives driven from our cultural values, and imbued with our cultural knowledge.

In my closing speech to Lord Hastings, I encouraged him to share Ngāti Whātua Orākei’s story of Māori development globally, so that it may shape and inform a modern world, and inspire other indigenous groups to find ways to honour their cultural values.

I extend the invitation to the incoming Orākei Local Board to come to Orākei Marae to share in a similar experience, to help enrich your decision-making capability and to bring you closer to a part of your community not represented.

— Precious Clark

the hobson 24

the suburbanist

Not Just Our Problem

I

n recent months the city has been focused on the Independent Hearings Panel (IHP) and their recommendations for the Unitary Plan. Auckland Council has met and put its foot lightly on the brakes, with one eye on the road ahead and the other on the upcoming elections. The Unitary Plan is described as “up and out”, meaning that it is a combination of increased density in urban areas and greenfields development at the Rural Urban Boundary.

The dilemma is that if we build less “up” then we need more “out”. Some have said that the IHP’s estimates are inflated, and we won’t need nearly this many houses. However, the IHP makes the point, quite strongly, that the “costs to individuals and the community of under-enabling supply (house price escalation, overcrowding, extended commuting distances) are much more severe than those arising from over-enabling capacity (inefficient use for a period of land zoned for future urban use)”. In other words, if the target is too low, house prices will stay high – and unaffordable for most – for a long time.

Elsewhere, affordable housing crises are being dealt with in other ways. In the US not a single county has enough affordable housing units to go around. Building new houses is seen as one way out of the crisis, but in some places it is seen as more economic to simply preserve the existing housing stock instead of trying to replace it. Between 2001 and 2013, the US housing market saw the loss of 2.4 million affordable units. At the same time rents have been rising, along with the number of renters.

An American research organisation, the Urban Institute, has suggested a range of ways to reinvigorate existing housing stock, from providing better infrastructure for trailer parks – not really applicable in Auckland – to refurbishing abandoned buildings, which would be great here, if we could just persuade businesses to walk away from their buildings.

They also recommend that councils partner with not-forprofits, which is already happening in New Zealand, albeit in fits and starts, with various social housing charities. Collaborations like these may hold the key to the future of affordable housing in Auckland, particularly if it involves the conversion of existing housing stock. The best opportunity would appear to be adapting and upgrading state houses either into smaller units for smaller households, or into larger ones for sizeable families; some say we have ample housing – it’s just the wrong fit.

In Kuwait they have a housing crisis of a different kind, where they have a promise of one house for every Kuwaiti family. The government there is very generous to its citizens, providing free education and health care, public sector employment and housing.

And not just an apartment in a block but a free-standing villa on 400m2 of land. Copious oil reserves allow them to do this of course. The catch is that the villa is only available to every married Kuwaiti male; single men and women are excluded and generally stay living with their family until their marital status changes. The policy is designed to be equal but in practice it creates inequalities as some Kuwaitis speculate on their free government houses, driving up the cost of real estate.

The building of these villas is not keeping pace with the rate of marriage and more than 100,000 people (of a total population of 1.3 million) are on the waiting list. The government’s solution: construct five new cities on the outskirts of Kuwait City. The first one will have 30,000 houses and parks, mosques, medical centres and schools. Presumably the job opportunities will still be in the capital; with all that cheap oil, commuting, sustainability and climate change clearly aren’t as important to them as the promise of a free house. — Tommy Honey

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.

VPA: Is it worth the money?

Vendor Paid Advertising – My Real Estate agent insists we invest in a print marketing campaign in the $10-15,000 range, what do you think?

Let’s be honest we are in a sellers-market, if you took the print advertising away all those buyers are not going vanish! We now enjoy modern internet search sites the likes of trademe.co.nz, realestate.co.nz and our own mikepero.com site that easily match your search criteria. Add to that the current market demand where using internet, social media and our data base activations alongside quality copy, great photos and floor plans invariably delivers serious buyers and often culminates in a prompt sale.

Print media does have its merits where you have a unique quality property with genuine special features. What you then add to the mix is attracting buyers who may not have considered your area, your style of home or were not even thinking of buying at all!

There are many other factors to consider including ensuring a fast sale so the property does not become stale but whatever you do ensure you use a skilled, vendor committed agent who will tailor make a genuine marketing plan that will get you the best price in the shortest time.

Thinking of selling, call for a no obligation in depth market review.

Karen Moore – Licensed Agent & Territory Owner Remuera - Waiheke Mike Pero Annual Awards 2016 1st - Team Marketing Campaign Remuera

If you are looking in the very best h the Mike Pero Te

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Lic

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

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Licensed REAA (2008)

the sporting life

It's been the annual cross-country season recently for primary and intermediate-age students, and once again we invited all our local schools to share their results.

Congratulations to all participants who ran, jogged and walked the courses, and also to those who went on to represent their school at the Remuera (Years 5 and 6), and Central and Eastern (Years 7 and 8) Zone championships.

All images and placings information courtesy of the participating schools.

the hobson 26

King's School pupils race through The Domain. Photo by BWMedia Photography

the hobson 27

the sporting life

BARADENE COLLEGE OF THE SACRED HEART Year 7 Amity Drake Olivia Page Maddie Brill Year 8 Eva Sutherland Penelope Salmon Georgia Fitzpatrick KING’S SCHOOL Early Learning Centre Benjamin Orchard Markos Huljich Blake Banian Transition Christian Li Harry Thompson Lachlan Collett Year 1 Ashton Tisch Benjamin Young Luke Buckley Year 2

Cale Ngatai Jonty Batchelor Aarav Pandey Year 3 Quin Winward Charlie Middleton Daniel Yu Year 4 Vinnie Wallwork Reid Tisch Varnan Pasupati Year 5 Dylan Hawkesby Finlay Mather Reuben Partigliani Year 6 Dion Wallwork Louis Ballan Denis Wood Year 7 Hugo Batchelor Toby Tasker Seb Ricketts Year 8 Chicago Doyle Jack O’Connor Eric Zhou MEADOWBANK SCHOOL Year 3 Girls Emma White Eden Murdoch Dulakshi Palpitiya Acharige

Year 3 Boys Reagan Brookes Harry Witheridge Nico Stanley Year 4 Girls Mikayla Chung Amelia Elsmore Emelia Pulman Year 4 Boys Cassian HaywardSlattery Ethan Schceman Callum Monk Year 5 Girls Jaya Stanley Ruby Hannan Georgia McDermott Year 5 Boys Charles Christie Casey Brookes Eli McConnon Year 6 Girls Ruby Nathan Naomi Binet-Johnson Tegan Feringa Year 6 Boys Lachlan Dyer Zach Schultz Zachary Chung PARNELL DISTRICT SCHOOL Year 1 Girls Charlotte Waite Natalie Johnson Mikayla Burvill-Brown Year 1 Boys Noah Wilkins Ethan Wong Fletcher Ramson Year 2 Girls Maddie Worral Cerys Findlow Hannah Billcliff Year 2 Boys Oliver Slade-Jones James Duffey Monty Bowen Year 3 Girls Saffron Moaveni Michelle Luo Jessica Walkinshaw Year 3 Boys Max Foley Ben Worral Harry Barrett Year 4 Girls Berengere Profit Valentina SaavedraCendana Jessica Bublitz

Year 4 Boys Jimmy Berry Sam Hawkins Guy Lawrence Year 5 Girls Poppy Webb Ella Reid Lily Double Year 5 Boys Harrison Lloyd Tuscan Oguz Ishka Cox Year 6 Girls Natalie Salmon Georgia Haskell Frankie Barrett Year 6 Boys Peter Bowen Hugo Tierney Michael McIlwraith Year 7 Girls Rici Chambers Kyon Gicole Xanthe Savill Year 7 Boys Taiman Cookson Oscar Richards Fabian Temme Year 8 Girls Ava Pickering Gemma Graham Paris Fraser Year 8 Boys Liam Quinn Patrick Long Dominic Hawkins ST CUTHBERT’S COLLEGE Year 3 Scarlett Robb Kate Bruford Ellie Siu Year 4 Eleora Lau Grace Meredith Samantha Bradley Year 5 Sophie Robb Renee Zhang Alexandra Fletcher Year 6 Charlotte Greenwood Olivia Greenwood Sofia Kelliher Year 7 Jaime Lewis Madeline Leigh Zara Stewart Year 8 Isabella Richardson the hobson 28

Peyton Leigh Isabel Allen SAINT KENTIGERN BOYS’ SCHOOL Year 0 Jackson Fawcet Eddie Robinson Connor Gillard Year 1 Ben Cleaver Benjamin Durose Harley Evans Year 2 Miki Cronin Toby Wigglesworth Nathan Lindross Year 3 Max Trankels Leon Hardie Jacob Hageman Year 4 Oliver Hardie Tom Butler Ollie Davies Year 5 Ethan Knox Hugo Wigglesworth Luca Roberton Year 6 James Ford Brodey Warren Oliver Rowntree Year 7 Cole Osborne Jack Mitchell George Beca Year 8 Vinay Chichester Matthew Larsen Henry Hauser SAINT KENTIGERN GIRLS’ SCHOOL Year 0 Kasey Wray Indi Jury Bella Guthrie Year 1 Amelia Hardie Violet Lindsay-Small Queenie Lang Year 2 Sienna Robertshaw Brooke Rowntree Elise Leport-Symonds Year 3 Charlotte Ray Amie Hilliam Phoebe Wood

Year 4 Sahara Knottenbelt Sienna Hirst Endrica Dhan Year 5 Isabella Hughes Frances Revell-Devlin Kate Green Year 6 Zoe Wong Bridget Dennis Cassandra Wood Year 7 Grace Paul Verity Ward Lola Wiltshire Year 8 Elyse Tse Florence Dallow Lily-Belle Sawyer SAINT KENTIGERN PRESCHOOL 3-year-old Girls MacKenzie Porteous Charlotte Wakelin Alyssa Wray 3-year-old Boys Oscar Hunter Sidart Naiker Ethan Godden 4-year-old Girls Ninsi Finn Elsa Taylor Maggie Griffiths & Willow Carnegie 4-year-old Boys Kieran Vaseegaran-Hey Maddox Bedford Mark Bai VICTORIA AVENUE PRIMARY Year 0 Girls Ella Maice Issy Taylor Scarlett Main Year 0 Boys George Tavalea Alex Bao Kayde Green Year 1 Girls Lucia Bartle Tia Williams Caylen Shen Year 1 Boys Henry Martin Noah Abou-Ghoury Sebastian McIvor

Year 2 Girls Alexis Tree Willow Reid Natalia Ese Year 2 Boys Henry Main Rohan DeZoysa Charlie Barron

Year 3 Girls Sasha Whitlock Brooke Griffiths Alex Yeoman Year 3 Boys Hugo Harris Jet Cheung Daniel Soldinger

Year 4 Girls Isla Hebblethwaite Phoebe MacGill Nina Brown Year 4 Boys Ethan Ese Sam Jancys Quinn Skegg-O'Donnell

Top: Best foot forward — Saint Kentigern boys on their cross-country day, held at the Boys' school campus. Above, Team Baradene takes a break at the Eastern Zones, where they won the six-person team events. Right, top: Year 5 girls’ winners from Victoria Avenue School, from left, Estella Tree, Sammie Barclay and Holly Brazendale. Below, from left, Year 6 champs Felicity Thompson, Grace Brazendale and Jaime Francis.

the hobson 29

Year 5 Girls Holly Brazendale Sammie Barclay Estella Tree Year 5 Boys Henry Richardson Jonny Barclay Richie Wood

Year 6 Girls Jaime Francis Grace Brazendale Felicity Thompson Year 6 Boys Somin Mohit Fraser McLaren Dominic Turnbull

the hobson + remuera live life local

Sitting Pretty Ming Stevens’s store in The Village Green is a welcoming experience for shoppers

H

anging out in The Sitting Room, chatting with owner Ming Stevens, feels a bit like being in someone’s, well, sitting room.

It’s so cosy in here Ming, it actually feels like being in someone’s home!

So often customers say that they love the feel of the shop, and I think this lets them trust me to work with them.

How long have you owned The Sitting Room?

I opened eight years ago, on one of Remuera’s market days.

And how would you describe what you do here?

The Sitting Room is primarily a soft furnishing business. I specialise in selling NZ-made sofas and chairs, often with loose-covers and usually made to order. I always have a vast selection of gorgeous cushions and I offer a comprehensive soft furnishing service.

Why do you think people recommend you?

As I am a small business and a bit hidden away down here in the lovely Village Green, I do depend on word of mouth. I offer a personal service and go to great lengths to find what the customer is looking for. So often customers become friends, and it is nice when they recommend me to others.

Do you have a style motto?

I firmly believe there’s no point having something if it’s not beautiful, of good quality. And it doesn’t need to have an exorbitant price tag. I like to show people that you can have beautiful things without spending a fortune.

Have you always had an interest in sewing and design?

I’ve always been quite crafty – I used to make lampshades by

gluing string around a beach ball, then deflating it — I was doing these long before they became trendy! I loved sewing when I was younger. I made all my own clothes and even my sister’s wedding dress.

So you could say you grew up in this field?

Well I actually trained as a radiographer! But I feel like I’ve come full circle, as I originally started a home science degree at uni, and now I own a furniture and design shop. For many years I was involved with Mainly Chairs in Ponsonby to a greater or lesser extent, while bringing up four children.

Do your children show any interest in the business?

They were all wonderful helping out when they were students, but now are all grown up and with their own jobs.

They quite like coming to trade shows and gift fairs with me, which is great as it gives me a younger perspective on things.

And of course they like the shop when they need things for their own homes!

What do you like most about working in Remuera?

Without sounding like a cliché, it’s definitely the village atmosphere. When I open up the shop in the mornings I can smile and say hello to 20 different people. It’s a wonderful community.

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Ming Stevens in her furnishings store, The Sitting Room, 415 Remuera Rd, in the Village Green the hobson 30

live life local

Sunny With a Smile The food, the coffee, the people: Café@VickyOne ticks all the boxes

S

unny by name, sunny by nature. If there was ever a person destined to be in hospitality, it’s Sunny Eum. She loves what she does with a passion, and it shows.

Sunny, what would we be surprised to know about you?

I was a trolley dolly! I flew long-haul for Air New Zealand for over 10 years.

How did you go from that, to owning a café?

I became a single parent, and I needed to support my kids.

They both were at school in this area, so it made sense to work around here. And running my own business gave me the flexibility I needed.

Are you quite involved in the day-to-day of the café?

I am here all the time, it’s my second home! I do the cooking.

But it’s not just me, it wouldn’t be Café@VickyOne without my wonderful staff. They work as hard as I do.

Where did you learn to cook?

I’m self-taught. Being a mother of young children, I was cooking seven days a week. I used to watch my mother cooking too, so you could say it’s in my blood.

Do you have a cooking style?

Fresh! Fresh produce, fresh and simple dishes. I think a menu should be plants, veges, salad, with meat in moderation.

You were born in South Korea. Have you been away from Asia for a long time?

I came to New Zealand 30 years ago, by myself. I had travelled the world, then I decided to settle here. I love it here, I live here, I will remain here – this country has so much potential and something for everyone.

What do you enjoy most about owning the café?

The cooking, of course! My home is filled with cookbooks, but here, I get to fulfil my desire to share my style of food with others. And I have a lot of fun with my staff. We joke around, we’re all happy. We all look after each other.

Some of your staff have worked for you for years, and are as familiar to the locals as you are.

Yes, Lini and Christina. They’re sisters — they both came straight from school and I trained them, they soaked it all up.

We multi-task as a team.

Do your teenagers show interest in working in the café?

They’re very independent and have their own goals and dreams. My daughter wants to be a marine biologist, my son a pilot. So only time will tell!

Tell usabout your customers.

We do have quite a few regulars. They’re more than customers though — we share the neighbourhood is a better way to put it. We do like to take care of everyone who visits.

Is that why people keep coming back?

Yes, that, fresh food daily, great customer service and everyone working together as a team!

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Sunny Eum at her cafe at 1 Victoria Avenue, Remuera. Interviews by Fiona Wilson, photos by Vanita Andrews the hobson 31

Simply Matching Pe

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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 - so there is little need for open homes or marketing campaigns, or public exposure except to our Register. The majority of sales have been to local buyers; the majority of sales have been for record prices in their respective areas and across the spectrum of price categories.

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

Your next Auckland Council needs

Greater Accountability.

Tighter Control on Spending.

Clear Thinking.

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

fb.com/BillRalstonforWaitemata

Centre Right Independent for Waitemata & Gulf Councillor

Authorised by Bill Ralston, 5 Franklin Rd, Freemans Bay

the candidates

Civic Civilians This month, the country goes to the polls to select new local body representation. In Auckland, contenders for the mayoral chains of office have debated our housing crisis, traffic debacles and development needs against a backdrop of the city’s new growth blueprint, the Unitary Plan. Whether up or out, light rail or motorway tolls, narrowing the widening gap between haves and have-nots, the new mayor will have a full agenda, and a table of 20 councillors with whom to find consensus. And there’s the PR battle to be won too: a June survey found just 15 per cent of Aucklanders are satisfied with Auckland Council’s performance, and only 17 per cent trust it to make the right decisions. We tasked journalist Zac Fleming with questioning the mayoral candidates (the leading names, according to recent polling, including Chloe Swarbrick, the only candidate campaigning for the youth vote and enjoying a late surge in the polls), and those standing for the role of councillor for the wards The Hobson straddles; Waitematā and Orākei. We also look at who's nominated for the local boards, the all-important link between communities and their Councillor.

Candidates are presented in alphabetical order. Some answers have been edited or paraphrased for brevity.

THE MAYORAL CONTENDERS Note: all are listed on the ballot papers as “Independent” candidates What’s your background and where are you going?

PENNY BRIGHT: I’m an anti-corruption and anti-privatisation watchdog. I want to make sure Auckland’s laws regarding citizens’ lawful rights to open, transparent, democratically accountable local government are implemented and upheld.

VIC CRONE: I’ve had strong experience with government, notfor-profits, and social enterprise, and it’s that combination of skills that I want to bring to shake Auckland Council up.

PHIL GOFF: I’ve had 30 years in public life. I’ve worked as a cabinet minister for half that time solving problems on limited budgets. I’d like to put something into the city I live in rather than continuing to work in central government.

JOHN PALINO: I’ve been in the restaurant business my whole life but I’ve also done things for Council: events like the big Christmas tree in Aotea Square.

CHLOE SWARBRICK: I’ve worked as a journalist, started multiple businesses with my partner, and worked on community projects. I want to take that a step further and represent all of Auckland . . . actually actioning solutions.

MARK THOMAS: I’ve had more than 20 years in large corporate roles, and for the last 10 years I’ve had my own business strategy and marketing consulting company. I want to provide the sort of leadership Auckland has been lacking over the last six years.

What do you think voters want?

BRIGHT: Open books. People want to know where their money’s going. They want accountability.

CRONE: Council to spend their money far more wisely . . . and a shake-up of Council’s culture. They want a council that works together and works with them.

GOFF: We have to solve our transport problems. Every one of us has got children and/or grandchildren, and we wonder how they’re ever going to achieve the dream of home ownership.

Plus, I’ve never seen so much homelessness in my city in my entire working life.

PALINO: Our growth plan has to change. Everything we are doing right now in growth is destroying Auckland. It’s causing our house prices to go up, it’s causing our rates to go up, it’s causing our transport problems. I’ll also commit to in three

years reducing rates by 10 per cent.

SWARBRICK: Housing options, housing affordability, and transport that works.

THOMAS: A more affordable council. Spending more of the money on the things that matter, like top priority transport projects.

How will you achieve that?

BRIGHT: Make sure Section 17 of the Public Records Act 2005 is implemented and enforced. [Ed note: The section says Council must “create and maintain full and accurate records of its affairs … including the records of any matter that is contracted out to an independent contractor”.]

CRONE: Reduce our inefficient spending and go back to core services. Then we can very confidently tackle our transport issues, our housing problems, and create a world-class digital city. Use public-private partnerships to deliver key infrastructure.

Partner with private capital and work with government to find new sources of revenue for Auckland, and light up the social capital investment market.

GOFF: We have to have an effective partnership with central government and they’ve got to recognise if Auckland is getting 50 per cent of the growth, a commensurate share of the income taken out of Auckland needs to come back into Auckland to meet the costs of providing for that growth. We’re not asking for more than we deserve, we’re simply asking for Auckland’s fair share.

PALINO: Open up the metropolitan boundary. You cannot build affordable housing within the boundary. Build more of a linear city along the trunk line … build cities so people live, work and play in their area. And build a new [standalone] satellite city in south Auckland.

SWARBRICK: Speed up the consenting process by way of bringing it online, which also adds a layer of transparency.

That transparency in turn leads to accountability so the system works more effectively. I also propose that we change our ratings system. Tax solely land value. For transport, prioritise the rapid transit network and get more people onto alternative forms of transport.

THOMAS: Sort our growth out. It’s about balancing the Unitary

the hobson 35

the candidates

Plan. The biggest opportunities for affordable housing aren’t in Parnell and Remuera. That doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be development, but what I want to do is intensify in the Takapunas, Hendersons, Manukaus, where Council owns a lot of land and house prices will be lower.

Do you have a pet project that you’re passionate about?

BRIGHT: My pet project is to open the books.

CRONE: Making Auckland a smart city, a city that embraces technology. Things like putting sensors in our water network that measures in real time the quality of the network, showing us who’s dumping waste, where.

GOFF: A busway and a light rail system so that we can de-clog our roads by giving people effective alternatives to cars. Restore access to and clean up our harbour. And restore some of the tree cover so we maintain Auckland as a green and beautiful place to live.

PALINO: Building up the existing CBDs like Albany, Takapuna, Henderson and Manukau. Focus the concentration of the growth into those areas.

SWARBRICK: I want to turn Council’s communications team on its head and have staff pushing out a lot more information as opposed to just receiving. At the moment people don’t know how Council works, and if they don’t know that, they can’t engage with it.

THOMAS: I want to return more power to people. I want to introduce a veto right where 15,000 Aucklanders could petition Council to revoke a decision, and the ability for local boards to formally object to a decision the governing body makes.

What do you think of the Unitary Plan?

BRIGHT: It’s a lunatic plan. Council, Auckland Transport and Watercare aren’t even on the same page regarding growth projections.

CRONE: Overall, it’s a stake in the ground in the right direction.

There are some things that we do need to look at, particularly not enough intensification around the main transport routes.

F O R M AY O R

GOFF: The thrust of the plan is right; we had to go up. But now we need assistance with funds to provide infrastructure to turn the theoretical zoning into build-ready properties. Central government is going to have to cooperate. They get the funds from the growth, and we get the bill. They’re going to have to help with the bill.

PALINO: It’s an absolute disaster for Auckland as a growth plan.

Not for how we build roads and all that, that part is good … but it doesn’t actually include people and what people need.

SWARBRICK: The main thing I don’t like is the retention of single level dwellings. But I think that’s quite minimal, and is something that with effective governance can be changed if necessary.

THOMAS: It’s got three big weaknesses — character protection, funding the infrastructure plan, and I’ve got big concerns about whether it’s setting us up to deliver more affordable housing.

What will you do about the port?

BRIGHT: I’m opposed to any more encroachment or reclamation. But I don’t think it should move at this stage.

CRONE: It cannot expand further and it needs to be moved.

We need to develop a very thorough plan on how we approach moving it.

GOFF: Not one more centimetre into the harbour; there will be no expansion or reclamation of the port site. Ports of Auckland is going to have to deal with the fact they’re going to reach capacity in three to 10 years for bulk cargo.

PALINO: We can’t let the port expand any more. It either closes or it moves.

SWARBRICK: It does need to be moved and I would really like to see our waterfront unlocked. I absolutely stand for it not expanding further.

THOMAS: I’m completely unconvinced about their need to expand. My focus will be on encouraging the port to become more productive. If they felt they’d have to expand, Aucklanders would have to approve, and I’m fairly certain they wouldn’t.

Strong Leadership. Fresh Ideas.

Real Results.

vic4mayor.nz

Authorised by Vic Crone, 905/86 The Strand, Parnell.

the hobson 36

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

BRIGHT: I’m sticking up for the 99 per cent of Aucklanders who Auckland Council is not working for. This is currently a supercity for the one per cent.

CRONE: Experience in billion dollar organisations and big infrastructure programmes. I’m a digital leader, and I have experience across business, government, not-for-profit and social enterprise. We need to bring together all those sectors.

GOFF: I’m a known quantity. People have been able to observe what I’ve done in public life over quite a long period of time. They can make a judgment on that basis about my competency, my experience, my integrity, and how I go about doing things.

PALINO: I’ve written a book on my policies. I have a full growth plan. I come with overseas experience. Leaders are not taught to be leaders, you’re born a leader, and I’ve been leading since I was 20-years-old. I’ve been the head person of every business I’ve run.

SWARBRICK: Of the main candidates I’m the only one who doesn’t own a home, I don’t own a car, I have a $43,000 student loan, whereas most of them went through university for free. All of the decisions that are made with the next Council will affect me for the next 60-plus years.

THOMAS: I’m the only candidate who combines the trifecta of broad large business experience, who has been an elected member of Auckland Council since it began, and who has relationships with political players.

“Making Auckland a city where talent and enterprise can thrive.”

AUTHORISED BY PHIL GOFF, 59 HIGH ST, AUCKLAND

For a better Auckland forabetterauckland.org.nz

If you weren’t running, what would you be doing?

BRIGHT: Working full-time against privatisation and corruption, and for transparency.

CRONE: I’d still be at Xero.

GOFF: Pursuing something in trade or business. I’ve made the decision to leave Parliament, regardless of the outcome of the mayoral election.

PALINO: I’d be running my businesses. But I care about people and I can’t stand people struggling. I do charitable things as much as I can.

SWARBRICK: I’d continue to work within the art and culture space, because that’s where I feel that a lot of change can be made right now.

THOMAS: I’d be finding another way to make sure that we get the better leadership that we need. That might be as a critic or as a haranguer, but not as an activist.

Is there a city or mayor internationally you admire, and would like to emulate?

BRIGHT: Rome’s mayor, Virginia Raggi. She also campaigns for transparency and against corruption.

CRONE: [Michael] Bloomberg in New York and Naheed Nenshi in Calgary. [Nenshi] won mayor of the year in 2014 and there’s a lot of similarity between what I’m trying to do and what he’s done, in regards to the organisation of council.

GOFF: Sydney, Melbourne, Vancouver, Portland. Bloomberg was a fantastic mayor for New York. He’s one of the guys I look up to.

PALINO: Brisbane is one of the most efficient cities in the world. As far as mayors, Rudy Giuliani cleaned up New York and got rid of the crime and corruption, reduced regulations, and made building quicker; he had some brilliant ideas.

MARK THOMAS A NEW MAYOR FOR AUCKLAND www.mark-thomas.co.nz

Authorised by Mark Thomas, 28 Customs Street East, Auckland

the candidates

SWARBRICK: Sadik Khan for London in terms of cities that are doing well with their culture. Melbourne and Sydney in how they have used their waterfronts.

THOMAS: Bloomerg looked at the issues and not the politics.

If you’re serious about local government, a lot of the issues are not that political.

You can swap places with anyone in the world for a week.

Who and why?

BRIGHT: Pre Sikka, a professor of accounting at Essex University who’s done a huge amount of work in fighting tax havens and tax avoidance. I’d like to mix and mingle with the people he associates with.

CRONE: Richard Branson. He’s very innovative, entrepreneurial, very community focused. I love that mix of forging new paths and success not just for himself, but also for a wide range of people.

GOFF: The Pope. I’d love to know the inner workings of the Vatican. I think it’s the most politicised system in the world.

PALINO: Bloomberg during his mayoralty, because he donated a lot to charities. I’d like to see how much that can help a city.

SWARBRICK: The life of one of the people living in their cars currently. I think that would be very eye-opening.

THOMAS: [no answer given] And a question posed to Swarbrick exclusively: Why are you qualified to be Auckland’s mayor at just 22-years-old?

I understand Auckland from a different perspective, and I think that experience is quite crucial. I have experience as a journalist, so investigating things from every single angle and being completely critical. I have a law degree, so I truly really know how things progress [through the system]. My difference in perspective and forward-thinking outlook, in terms of the next 100 years as opposed to the next 20 to 50.

THE COUNCILLORS Auckland must elect 20 councillors, representing the 13 wards of the isthmus. Both Waitematā (Parnell, Newmarket, across the CBD to Westmere) and Orākei (Remuera to St Heliers) are represented by one councillor each. There are three candidates standing for Waitematā, inclduing incumbent Mike Lee, and four in Orākei* for the seat vacated by Cameron Brewer.

What’s your background?

What do you think Orākei voters want?

ORAKEI

LECKINGER: Being rid of transport gridlock. They’re also afraid of losing their communities’ character and protecting green spaces.

PADFIELD: This ward has been a football of political ambition over the last six years, and has missed out on many resources as our councillor has enjoyed being “Leader of Opposition” in Council. It is time for a strong, independent voice to speak up and finally get something done for our community.

SIMPSON: Stick to core Council business and use our money wisely. Don’t waste it on projects or ideas that won’t tangibly take this city forward.

RICHARD LECKINGER (Green Party): I was a ministerial advisor on energy efficiency issues. Now I’m a bit of a committee hound. I like to understand how committees work, how they make decisions and how they get policy through.

MIKE PADFIELD (Community Voice): I have been active in local council matters for the last 15 years as a community board member and chairman, and as a mayoral and councillor candidate. My interests lie in supporting local community members to access all Council facilities for funding and finance, and ensure that my community gets its fair share of Council resources.

DESLEY SIMPSON (C&R: Communities & Residents): I’ve served six years as chair of the Orākei Local Board. Prior to that, I did three terms under mayor John Banks as chair of what was the Hobson Community Board. Before that, I had a lot of experience in the not-for-profit sector.

WAITEMATA MIKE LEE (City Vision endorsed): I was chairman of the Auckland Regional Council for its last six years. Now I want to finish off the work that I helped begin, like the rail renaissance.

BILL RALSTON (Independent): My background is in media.

Auckland Council has not proven itself to be a reliable administrator over the last six years. I want to bring some sanity into the way it operates and the way it makes its decisions.

ROB THOMAS (Independent): I’ve worked in communities for over half my life. I was elected to the Waitematā Local Board two terms ago. I will stand for mayor one day.

What do you think Waitematā voters want?

LEE: Accountability. No surprises. To feel confident that the money they pay in their rates is well spent, and when they have a problem they can pick up the phone and the councillor for the ward will respond to their concerns.

RALSTON: To know their rates aren’t going to escalate wildly.

A way to finance the infrastructural needs put on us by Auckland’s growth.

THOMAS: Celebrating and recognising the area’s heritage and its place in Auckland’s history. Opening up the Parnell Train Station and the abandoned rail tunnel in Parnell. Addressing the Hobson Bay boardwalk. Making sure rates are kept in tack, and reasonable.

How will you achieve that?

ORAKEI LECKINGER: An extra train station into our area between Meadowbank and Panmure, and push hard to get CRL up and

the hobson 38

running. Integrate services. We still run a lot of services parallel to the train tracks and so the buses are competing with the trains instead of feeding them. To protect character: make sure that everything is properly publicly notified.

PADFIELD: By never ceasing to put our ward’s best interest forward in every aspect. To fight for our fair share of all resources, to work collaboratively with other elected members and local iwi so we can together achieve the best outcomes.

SIMPSON: Be very careful with how we spend money and what we approve. We need to reject anything that doesn’t give you all the facts. I recently rejected a report because the associated material wasn’t accurate — it should never have got past the system and I’m not going to pretend it was okay. We have to have to have accuracy and detail in the reports.

WAITEMATA LEE: Remind Council of those things and hammer away against the bureaucracy that tends to ride over the average concerns of the average citizen.

RALSTON: Infrastructure bonds. Collect Council’s revenue earning operations into one fund and then once it’s running in a more commercial manner, look to do a sell down of 49 per cent of it to a mixed ownership model. And a very targeted rate on new developments so they can pay for their own infrastructure needs.

THOMAS: I believe there should be a debt ceiling for the Council and a ratings policy around revenue in the door, versus revenue out the door. We need to make sure we live within our means, which means harder decisions.

Do you have a pet project that you’re passionate about?

ORAKEI LECKINGER: Bring home more of the bacon. Our local board has been too constrained because of a lack of money.

PADFIELD: Elimination of constant flooding on Tamaki Drive is very important to me. Achieving further cycleways, walkways and train access is very important to me, whilst ensuring we take care of our precious natural environment.

SIMPSON: Tamaki Drive is a part of Auckland that is not just

limited to Orākei, it’s a regional asset. People flock to the beaches in the area and they’re not just locals. Yet we have parts of Tamaki Drive that flood when there’s a high tide, it’s sinking, it really hasn’t been future-proofed.

WAITEMATA LEE: Modern trams and rail around the city where people can get on a train and go to the airport.

RALSTON: I’d like to see the walkway around Hobson Bay extended from where it currently stops so it’s a full return. It’s long overdue.

THOMAS: The environmental space. We should be doing a lot more on climate change.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

ORAKEI LECKINGER: Other councillors have completely missed out on the good things happening in parks and in waste management.

There’s very little investment in those things.

PADFIELD: My knowledge gained over many years of how to get the best from Council, my experience in self-employed business, and knowing how hard it is to earn a dollar and keep a dollar! My independence from any political pressure.

SIMPSON: Apart from being female, I’ve had experience in Council so I know exactly what I’m getting myself in for.

And I’m not standing for anything other than the councillor position. You’ve got a couple of candidates who are standing for Local Board too. They’re completely different roles. I haven’t got a bet both ways.

WAITEMATA LEE: Experience. I’m not an establishment type person — I don’t go along with the big money people or the government. I’m a person who speaks out and who actually has a track record of public service.

RALSTON: A commitment to good management of Council.

Mike Lee has been around for 25 years or more, and I can see no evidence of him managing to govern in any sensible

the candidates manner. And I’m sure Rob is a nice guy, but I think I’ve got a better skill set than him.

THOMAS: You don’t see a lot of environmental climate change policy coming from the others. And I’ve had a lot of experience working for other councils in other cities, so I bring quite a broad knowledge of that to the table.

You can swap places with anyone in the world for a week.

Who and why?

ORAKEI LECKINGER: Environment Minister. If I had that magic wand to wave, it would be great to sign off on things that are ready to go, but have no political will for a sign-off today.

PADFIELD: Barack Obama, as he has so much opportunity to improve the lives of the communities he is responsible for.

SIMPSON: I’d want to do it to learn, so maybe change places with the mayor of Brisbane, Vancouver or Adelaide. I use those cities because they’re often mooted as being similar to Auckland, but are well-respected by their ratepayers.

WAITEMATA LEE: Transport Minister. I’d be able to put rail back on the agenda.

RALSTON: Barack Obama. He’s on a downhill run on the presidency and seems to be having a hell of a time at the moment. Still got a bit of power and responsibility, but most of the pressure is starting to come off.

THOMAS: One of our Olympians to represent New Zealand, and do something honourable like that. Maybe a golfer. Danny Lee. Untitled-2 1

Jackie HUI

03-Aug-16 8:49:21 PM

*Ian Wilson, running for Orākei Ward councillor, did not respond to requests for comment.

Waitemata Local Board Independent Candidate Balanced Views

THE LOCAL BOARDS The Waitematā and Orākei local boards each have seven vacancies. An asterisk denotes a candidate who has served on the board for the current term.

Orākei Local Board nominees: Troy Churton (C&R: Communities and Residents)*, Carmel Claridge (C&R), Colin Davis (C&R)*, Xiaoying Fu (Independent), Adriana Gunder (Independent), Richard Leckinger (Green Party), John Lilly (Independent), Toni Millar (C&R), Fleur Nixon (Independent), Mike Padfield (Community Voice), Kit Parkinson (C&R)*, Rosalind Rundle (C&R), Dorthe Siggaard (Green Party), David Wong (C&R) Waitematā Local Board nominees:

www.jackiehui.co.nz waitemata@jackie.co.nz Authorised by Jackie HUI 556/6 Princes Street, Auckland Central

Morgan Avery (Independent), Judith Claire Bassett (Auckland Future), Kurt Brunton, Shale Chambers (City Vision)*, Stella Chan (Auckland Future), Adriana Christie (City Vision), Pippa Coom (City Vision)*, Mark Davey (Auckland Future), Jonathan Good (Auckland Future), Russell Hoban (Community Central), Jackie Hui (Independent), Chang Hung (City Vision), Alasdair Thomas Long (Auckland Future), Allan Matson (Independent), Greg Moyle (Auckland Future)*, Richard Northey (City Vision)*, Chris Severne (Auckland Future), Kurt Taogaga (City Vision), Vernon Tava (City Vision)*, Rob Thomas (Independent)*, Margaret Voyce (Independent) p

VOTE FOR AUCKLAND FUTURE Waitemata Local Board For the last 25 years our area has been dominated by the left. It’s time to change this with your vote. We have the support of our local MP's Nikki Kaye, Paul Goldsmith, Melissa Lee and David Seymour. As a group of professionals, we are passionate about Auckland and we will make a real difference.

Your Auckland Future Waitemat Local Board will promote the following projects: •

Protect parks and recreational spaces across the ward including the enhancement of Gladstone Park and Judges Bay.

•

Upgrading the Hobson Bay walkway to connect with Point Resolution.

•

Improving the facilities at the Parnell Baths.

•

Develop a New Zealand native urban forest at Western Springs creating a safe environment for our native flora and fauna for all of us to enjoy.

•

Point Erin Pool redevelopment creating an indoor swimming pool alongside the existing “Lido Pool”.

•

A balanced approach to traffic congestion on our inner city streets.

•

Preservation of local heritage.

•

Preserve and promote the unique café culture in our inner city shopping precincts.

PLEASE GIVE US YOUR VOTE FOR REAL CHANGE

Judith Claire Bassett

Jonathan Good

Stella Chan

Alasdair Long

Mark Davey

Greg Moyle

Chris Severne

www.aucklandfuture.co.nz www.facebook.com/aklfuturewaitemata

Authorised by B O’Loughlin, 1/466 Parnell Rd

jerry clayton bmw + the hobson

The Eco Warrior

Justine Williams gives an ‘E’ for excellence to the new BMW X5e

F

rom when I pulled out of the Jerry Clayton BMW forecourt, I didn’t want to get out of this car, least of all have to give it back. The family have all benefited from my all-too-eager enthusiasm for driving them here, there and everywhere over the week I was in proud possession of the BMW X5e iPerformance. I don’t think I’d ever tire of driving this beautiful machine.

Naturally, we’ll start with the good looks. Some minor cosmetic tweaks have been applied to the X5’s rear end in recent years, and it looks great. Proportionally, this car is currently sitting right in its sweet spot. It’s got that undeniably handsome, and sporty, style that seems to suit men and women equally.

The hybrid petrol/plug-in electric engine still leaves me a little baffled by the science in theory, but in practice the e-series doesn’t lack any power or speed — it’s beautifully silent (allowing the mindblowingly good Harman Kardon stereo to be heard as it should) and boy, does it feel good to be part of the future.

The hybrid system allows you to set the vehicle to auto (Jerry Clayton’s Elliott Chessell tells me this is the setting where most drivers will settle), which allows the car to use algorithms to determine the switching between electric and petrol engines. And it’s such a quiet process, you may not even notice it happening.

The plug-in charging system does require a shift in thinking if, like me, you’ve only ever owned petrolpowered cars. The vehicle needs to be charged regularly, however by day two, it has become second nature to plug my car in when I pull into my garage at the end of my working day. The stylish and recommended hardwired home charging station (purchased separately) will fully charge the battery in around two hours. The X5e also comes with a portable charger that you can plug into a regular wall power socket for a full charge, though this is slower. Charging stations are now dotted around town as parking buildings and savvy businesses cotton on to the growing popularity of hybrids. Locally, there’s a couple in Newmarket (a Vector station is pictured, far right), at Britomart and at Sylvia Park, which was conveniently positioned in a plum parking space.

It’s inside the car where the real magic kicked in for me. I spend an awful lot of time in my car, so my creature comforts are of paramount importance. The interior Nappa leather and woodgrain finishes speak to luxury, while the functional equipment and driver assistance features are like having a PA and a co-driver in one.

Keyless entry (assuredly my favourite feature of any car) is matched with my new love, the split tailgate-style boot. Electric, naturally, the bottom portion is high enough to stop parcels rolling out, but low enough to make loading everyday items easy. The combination of features like the park distance control, the parking assistant, rear view camera and the incredible surround view (a 360 degree view of the car) means parking is a breeze, banishing those “where did that pole come from?” and rim-gouging kerb encounters to the past. The sunroof floods the car with light, adding to its already very roomy feel.

The X5e feels strong and confident, and that e-for-electric makes it the strong, silent type for sure. It’s a lot of car, with a lot of features, one that gets better and better as you tune and personalise it to suit your life and driving needs.

The new BMW X5 is available in six models: Justine drove the hybrid electric plug-in X5 xDrive 40e with a drive-away price of $149,900. Jerry Clayton BMW offers a five year warranty on all its new BMWs, three years of no-cost servicing, and a five year roadside assistance program. Servicing is designed to be convenient for eastern suburbs’ residents: courtesy vehicles are available, as is collecting and returning your car from your workplace or home.

For further information, please contact sales manager Craig Baylis (09) 488 2000 or craig.baylis@jcbmw.co.nz, or visit Jerry Clayton BMW, 445 Lake Rd, Takapuna. jcbmw.co.nz

the hobson 42

the hobson 43

the pretty

Shelf Life

Justine Williams makes room in her beauty cabinet for spring’s new releases Working the messy hair/don’t care look? The new Redken Beach Envy Volume range lets you achieve beach hair — without the salt and sand — by giving amplified, loose waves and body to your locks. The range includes a shampoo and conditioner, and the volumising wonder, Wave Aid. From $33, at Redken salons

Get your brows Cara worthy with this easy-toapply, stays-on-all-day, doesn’t smudge, waterresistant, moisturising mousse colour. And it also fills in sparse areas, to help create that perfect eyebrow. Blinc Eyebrow Mousse, $42, from On Brow House, Osborne St

Summer is on its way, but for many, that also means oily skin.

Ultraceutical’s Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF 50+ Mattifying has been developed to combat an oily complexion, while still giving a high level of UV protection.

Make it a summertime essential. $84, from Face Doctors and About Face, Remuera

I’ve long been obsessed with the entire Top Secrets range, and the new 3-in-1 lip specialist is a most welcome finishing touch. A balm, a gentle peel and a daylong natural colour boost, it can be worn alone, or as a prep for lippie. YSL Top Secrets Lip Perfector, $72, available from YSL counters

It’s a confident product that gets re-released in one shade only. Boasting the same groundbreaking technology, the same long-lasting finish, but with a new brushed-metal effect, YSL Full Metal Shadow No.14 Fur Green, $55, is hardcore French chic. From YSL counters

Putting the joy back into makeup, Lancôme Juicy Shaker, $39, adds three new shades for spring. The blend pairs colour pigments with lipcare oils in a fun, shake-it-up and sponge-it-on lip shine, without the stickiness of gloss. From Lancôme counters

Maybelline New York Dream Velvet Foundation is hydrating, but it’s also got a velvety smooth matte finish, thanks to its gel, rather than powder, base. This little gem provides flawless, comfortable and longwearing coverage and is available in 10 shades. $24.99, from local pharmacies. The kings of mascara push up the drama with, well, Maybelline New York Push Up Drama Mascara, $24.99.

Delivering major curves and volume, thanks to the cup-shaped bristles and creamy plumping formula, it’s available in washable and waterproof variations. From local pharmacies and Farmers

Targeting all eye contour-related issues, we love Lancôme Visionnaire Yeux, $118.

Yip, wrinkles, dark circles and bags are all on the hit list with this balm-like product that offers both instant and long-term benefits.

At Lancôme counters

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If you’re after that nonchalant, tousled hair look but without bouffy volume at the roots (more French woman chic), add new L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Messy Cliché and French Froiseé to your weaponry. Natural shine with soft texture, and handbag friendly sizes will help you look artfully dishevelled all day long. From $34.90, at L’Oréal salons

“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

Nesting The Magpie cleans up for Spring Where did I put that bill, notice, to-do-thingy? Put it all in one place with the gorgeous Kate Spade File Organiser. Super stylish in clear Perspex and gold, and sporting a little reminder to you to “sort it out”, it’s $149 from Hedgerow, 371 Remuera Rd, or hedgerow.co.nz

Keep office papers neatly filed for action in an A4 Wire Tray, $34.90, from kikki.K. Tidy desk, tidy mind etc. kikki.K, Nuffield St, or via kikki-k.com

Stationery nerds rejoice! As if sent directly from heaven, the Magpie is lusting after this Pause stationery kit, $44.90, from kikki.K. Everything you need to clip, slip, tag and jot till your heart’s content, and in ontrend shades of blush and gold to enhance a desktop. kikki.K, Nuffield St or kikki-k.com

Aucklanders need a coat for more months of the year than we’d like to admit.

Store yours and your guests outer layers at the ready with this modern classic. The Forc coat stand is by Mobles 114 of Spain, and a welcome addition to any entrance. $1149, from UFL, 308 Rosebank Rd, Avondale, or via ufl.co.nz

How gourmet is this light birch wood Nicolas Vahe Table Brush and Pan Set? A little sweep of the table between courses (there’s always one messy guest) will have you looking like the host, or hostess, with the most-est. $44.90, from Father Rabbit at Bloc, Normanby Rd, or fatherrabbit.com

Oh how the Magpie loves a clean nest.

The Dyson V6 Cordless Stick Vacuum, $599, is amazing for those many mini clean-ups and trouble spots around the house. It is perfect for reaching cobwebby ceiling corners, and converts to a handheld for the car or zhujing up upholstery. For $100 more you can pick up the animal version, for those whose dog isn’t of the non-shedding variety. From Noel Leeming, Broadway

Magpie life goals 101: ceilings this high, to house bookcases this spectacular. The heart soars at the sight of such intelligent beauty and style. Poliform bookcases, crafted to your specifications (and budget) from Studio Italia, 25 Nugent Street Grafton

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Oh, the Magpie loves a gadget – especially one that will pay for itself in a matter of months in my nest. The Sunbeam Seal + Store FoodSaver VS5000, $370, allows food to last in the fridge for weeks rather than days, drastically reducing waste. There’s more benefits too, like faster marinading, and protecting other items from oxidation.

Available from all leading appliance stores

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” — William Morris. We think old Bill would approve of the Magò Broom by Magis, $100, a useful beauty at home anywhere. Italian designed and manufactured, it’s not just the bold colours that are appealing, but also its long-life construction. Spare brush and wall hook also available. From ECC, 39 Nugent St, Grafton

If everybody had a stylish and sturdy Nuovastep by Magis, $450, within arms reach, there’d be less dangerous teetering on bar stools to reach top shelves. With a steel tube frame painted in epoxy resin or chromed, these fold up and tuck away, or hang on the matching hook (purchased separately).

From ECC, 39 Nugent St, Grafton

There’s probably no such thing as too many Sax Storage Bags.

Well-priced from $8.95 to $39.95, they’re available in gold or silver and in five sizes. They are actually made from paper, but are machine washable. Great in the laundry, bathroom or kids’ rooms, and the smaller ones make excellent plant holders. From Freedom Furniture, Broadway or freedomfurniture.co.nz

Fit by Derlot are good-looking shelving systems for all environments, domestic or commercial. Designed and made here by Matthew Prince, Fit comprises of individual modules which stack to five high, and are available in three different lengths. Constructed with a Tasmanian Oak frame and powder-coated mild steel shelves, the combinations of size and colour are many. Priced from how big/how long/ how many, call (09) 828 1000 for info. UFL, 308 Rosebank Road, Avondale

Designed by Oiva Toikka for Magis and with children and teens in mind, the Magpie can think of all sorts of grown-up styling and storing needs for the Magis Downtown Shelving System, $1690.

With its tapered levels and clean white finish, it is a supercool addition to any room. From ECC, 39 Nugent St, Grafton

the hobson 47

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the giveback

The Lady Who Lunches Eat My Lunch bites into child needs

L

isa King is the queen of a good lunch, but in the opposite way to what you may be thinking.

In early September, Eat My Lunch, the phenomenally successful service she started only a year ago with partner Iaan Buchanan and their chef/restaurateur friend, Michael Meredith, passed the magical quarter-million mark. After barely a year of operation, Eat My Lunch has given away a staggering 250,000 nutritious lunches to children in low-decile schools in Auckland and Hamilton.

“The idea first came about over a couple of glasses of wine.

We were feeling a bit burnt-out in our corporate careers and wanted to do something more meaningful,” says the former marketer of the decision, with Iaan, to start the service. “The concept of giving away one lunch for every one that was bought and delivered seemed to make such sense.”

People agreed. Workplaces and individuals order a weekly lunch delivery, and for each one that goes out the door, a child in a low-decile school will receive a nutrious lunch pack of a sandwich, fruit and snacks.

“Now it just keeps growing.

We’re hiring new staff and there are so many keen volunteer helpers, we’ve had to put them on a waiting list!”

When King looks back, she sometimes can’t quite believe what she’s achieved in such a relatively short time. Eat My Lunch started in the kitchen of her former home in Mt Eden in mid-2015, and is now based in commercial premises in Newton.

“It was funny for our kids having all those strangers in our kitchen every morning but they soon got used to it,” she says of her busy household of four kids and two adults. “I think it was a bit much for some of the neighbours, with all the coming and going though!”

While the work is full-on and requires a very early wake-up call on weekdays to get the kitchen firing, the rewards are much more than just business success.

“What I love about it is seeing such real, tangible results. We’re bringing food to children who had never seen a raw carrot or celery stick before.

“At the start we were told about students who were so excited when they saw their lunches, they saved them to take home and show their families!”

The EML team constantly hears stories of improved attendance, better concentration, and an overall improvement in children’s

behaviour when they’re receiving a balanced meal in the middle of the day.

“A school nurse even told us that she’s noticed their skin looks better.”

King states quite frankly that this is a business and needs to make money, and explains that it couldn’t have worked so well and grown so quickly on any other basis.

“It’s sustainable, and scalable. It’s paying its own way which means that we can make it grow. At the moment we’re looking at starting up in Wellington.”

She is constantly amazed at the level of commitment shown by the many volunteers who give up their time to help.

“One lovely lady bakes 100 gingerbread men for us every week, which is so sweet of her.”

Corporates are keen to help too. Some send staff to make lunches as a teambuilding exercise, and last year Lego donated 10,000 packs of blocks as gifts for the kids.

“The children who received them were rapt.

Some simply couldn’t believe that the toys were theirs to keep.”

An old girl of St Cuthbert’s, King has found her former school an invaluable ally, with support from students who have volunteered their time and baked treats to include in the lunchboxes. St Cuth’s recently recognised King with a Marking Service Award, a special commendation honouring old girls’ outstanding community achievements.

“I was delighted,” says King of the recognition. “The staff and students have been incredibly generous right from the start. I think what really moves me is that all these people are putting in so much effort and expecting nothing in return.”

The Eat My Lunch achievement hasn’t gone unnoticed in the business world either. King is a finalist in the 2016 Westpac Women of Influence Awards in the “Business Enterprise” category, which is a great honour, she says. But ultimately, for her it’s about the children, rather than accolades.

“Our kids already argue about which of them will own Eat My Lunch when they’re grown up! I like the way it’s taught them that not every child is as lucky as they are. That’s a very important lesson to learn.” — Louise Richardson For further information, see eatmylunch.nz

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the anniversary

The Community College Seniors wore mufti, the facilities were great, the arts were encouraged — Selwyn College alumni of a certain age look back with fondness.

By Louise Richardson

A

s Kohimarama’s Selwyn College celebrates 60 years and prepares to move into its seventh decade, hundreds of alumni have attended celebrations held throughout 2016. The guest list at all events has been a veritable who’s who – especially from the creative world. This seems fitting since the arts – and especially drama, have always been integral to the school’s educational programme.

Selwyn College is relatively young; it was completed in 1956 – a year earlier than was initially estimated by builders who had expected considerable difficulty in tackling the clay-soil site.

Named for Auckland’s first Anglican bishop, George Selwyn (1809-1878), it catered to the fast-growing suburbs of Kohimarama and Orākei, St Johns and Meadowbank, and was the first of a new generation of school buildings, designed to be bright and airy, as opposed to the solid stone structures that characterised existing high schools in the city at that time.

Intrinsic to Selwyn College’s identity, right from day one, was a sense of community, which has sustained it through many good years as a leader in multi-cultural education, and, in the mid2000s, during a tumultuous time when the school was accused of falling standards. That controversy, say school leaders, is well behind them as the academic achievements of Selwyn’s students continue to multiply, with current NCEA pass rates above 90 per cent. The school’s current principal is Sheryll Ofner.

School archivist Diane Northcott has an association with Selwyn College that goes back 30 years, when she taught there as a new graduate.

“Selwyn people seem to be really good at keeping in touch,” she says.

“They tend to have regular 10-year reunions and I think that’s partly due to being a relatively young school. Our foundation students were all born during the early 1940s, so lots of them are still going strong in their 70s.”

Outside of the official reunions there are also many more casual ones and some of the forms from the 1970s still get together very regularly. Something like 27 out of the original 34 from one particular class met up on Waiheke not long ago. “They always seem to have a lot of fun,” says Northcott.

From an initial 330 students in the school’s first year, the roll has now increased to around 1000 full-time students. Selwyn College also has a very strong community education focus, one of the largest in the country. Its track record with refugee education is particularly impressive, says Northcott, who recalls the local community getting behind the school to help Croatian and Kosovans arriving as refugees from civil war in the mid 1990s, teaching them a range of practical skills vital for their new homeland, as well as language lessons.

While the arts are strong in the alumni credentials, students have also succeeded in many other fields. In the early days the school had a cadet corps, and an armoury for storing weapons.

Camps were held each summer – often at local airforce bases - and quite a number of young men ultimately ended up working with aircraft as the air travel industry rapidly became more popular and accessible.

Former Kohi resident Ross Hawkins, now working with New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, remembers his school days with warmth. His father, Murray, was on the board of governors, which oversaw three schools: Selwyn, Penrose High (now One Tree Hill College) which opened the year before Selwyn, and newcomer Glendowie College, which opened in 1961.

“We were a family of four brothers, living locally,” says Ross Hawkins. “Bryce was the first of us to go to Selwyn College, starting in 1969. In his day they were very strict about uniform, with blazers and ties. But by the time I came along in 1977, we were about to go into mufti for 6th and 7th formers. That was considered pretty radical at the time!”

The Hawkins’ kept their school connections close — Ross’s brother, Philip (class of ’71), “married Julie Pastor who was the tea lady at the 1st XV after-match functions”. Craig (class of ’74) has one son at the school, and another will start in the near future.

Other alumni include entrepreneur Derek Handley, fashion designer Jane Daniels, Equal Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue, actress Danielle Cormack and Sabato gourmet food store owner, Jacqui Dixon. Another foodie, Nici Wickes, one of four sisters, was head girl in her senior year.

“I’m one of those people who absolutely loved my school days,” she says.

“My mum, Carole, worked at Selwyn, so I guess it was inevitable that we would have a close relationship with the school.” Wickes’ father, Bruce, worked to create the trust behind the school’s sports complex, the ASB Stadium, raising millions of dollars to get it off the ground against the backdrop of the 1987 share market crash.

She recently returned to the school for the first time in 15 years.

“The quad looked the same but there were lots of changes too.

It has certainly got a lot bigger!”

For more information, see selwyn.school.nz

the hobson 50

Images from the Selwyn archives, above and right, courtesy of Selwyn College.

Left, Selwyn alumni, the Hawkins brothers, from left, Craig, Bryce, Philip and Ross, with their father, college board of governors member, Murray.

the hobson 51

the teacher

Learning for Life

I

n a time of rapid change, educators and politicians worldwide are faced with the challenge of preparing children to handle unprecedented levels of uncertainty for their future. Staying grounded, resilient and being able to apply learning to whatever the world throws at them next is essential. I never cease to be amazed at what I read, see and hear on a daily basis, often challenging my thinking and decisions, but always taken as an opportunity to learn something new. Learning is a daily occurrence if we are open to it, no matter our age.

Who would have thought that the speed of change would take on a life of its own? This is the point where I have to say that a sound education has to be the only answer. Without this our children will find the future a difficult place. But what are the skills over and above academic success they will need?

Education comes in all shapes and sizes. It is not only the classroom or the lecture theatre that provides it. Just think for a moment on how you were educated, and continue to be. Where did your journey take you? Was it engaging, challenging, relevant and significant? I have avoided using the word “academic” because that insinuates that there is only one form of a great education. Indeed, it is a very important part of being educated and is a good place to start. I also have to admit that a good academic education provides a future of freedom to make choices, and I may even go as far as saying that it can provide better health and happiness.

To equip our children for the future is time-consuming and expensive, but an enjoyable and very valuable part of raising them.

From the moment they are born they begin learning. You become their first teachers, and then entrust them to the professionals. It is in these formative years that children will set in place the allimportant life values that will continue to guide them through the many obstacles and challenges they will encounter. Parents as first teachers play an enormous role in teaching, modelling and securing these values before children enter school. A child’s brain has reached 80 per cent of its adult size by the age of three, and the key areas of brain wiring peak during this period! To prepare them well for school in these years it is essential to talk to them, read to them and play with them as often as possible.

It is essential that the future generations also be internationallyminded people, who will take on the responsibility of continuing to make the world a better place for the generations that will follow theirs. There is no doubt that the world will be a technical one and workplaces will be, well, who knows?

Our teaching programmes need to keep up with this rapid change, in particular, technology. The children certainly are keeping up, and are often leading and teaching the teachers, as they have no fear of it. Most schools now have excellent and truly exciting technology departments, and it is fantastic to have some larger businesses attaching themselves to schools to offer help and support in this area.

Term 3 will be coming to an end by the time you read this. It will have been an important term when teachers consolidated learning and extended challenges. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s learning, it is time to talk with their teachers so that any changes needed can be put in place next term.

I recently read an excellent article by Jim Flynn, emeritus professor of Political Studies at Otago University, in the NZ Listener.

He summed up for parents six points to enhance children’s cognitive ability, that will enhance their learning and help prepare them for future success. They made a lot of sense — I’ll recap them here.

— Judi Paape Professor Jim Flynn’s pointers for parents/caregivers:

•

Be a good role model – read widely, become well-informed, talk, challenge and react to world issues with intelligent criticism Make reading a lifelong habit Talk aloud – chat around the dinner table Choose schools well. (A personal experience in my family this year. Now sorted and a very happy teenage boy has resulted) Make homework automatic – encourage children more than you reprimand them Don’t seek perfection (I like this suggestion) – “driving yourself into a frenzy trying to raise the bar won’t benefit anyone! Don’t push in the face of resistance and destroy the pleasures your life and child should give you”.

• • • • •

Dr John McCabe, BDS Otago, Dr Carin Burger BDS, and Associates.

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Live your passions, love your art

By Cathy Roselli, local Ray White real estate salesperson

Meeting room, Ray White Parnell 2016 Sonja Hawkins

These are hugely exciting times for me as I find myself in a new space that allows me to explore two of my greatest passions: real estate and art.

Our passions define who we are. ‘Anything that gets your blood racing is probably worth doing’ is a favourite quote of mine.

Although it sounds more like something Pablo Picasso would have said having fathered four children by three different women!

We all know that to really excel at something you need to have a passion for it.

The new Ray White office in Parnell that I now call home better resembles an art lover’s haven than a real estate office thanks to the efforts of Sonja Hawkins from My Art. My Art is a business that Sonja and her husband Glenn set up to support the local creative community by making art really easy and affordable to buy with interest free loans.

Walking past our office on 415 Parnell Road you’d be forgiven for thinking it was

Sakura’s Sakura, 2015 Tim Lambourne

an art gallery.

The walls are adorned with the eye-catching work of the wonderful emerging artist Tim Lambourne. My office pod in itself is a piece of art and our exquisite meeting room is Sonja’s creative invention or her little pièce de résistance.

The artistic nature of our office creates an environment that is focused on creativity, innovation and customer needs. It looks different, because we are different.

By creating a space that challenges conventions we open the door for people to look at us in a fresh and exciting new light.

Art is part of the fabric of our society and at its very core it evokes emotion. There’s a strong connection there for me because selling and buying a home is an emotional experience. And to be truly great at it as a real estate salesperson you need to have an appreciation for the art of selling homes.

From open home staging to the photographers and marketers I choose to work with, there has always been a strong element

Ina te Papatahi, A Ngāpuhi Chieftainess 1902 Charles Frederick Goldie

of art in everything I do. It’s my secret ingredient.

The benefits aren’t limited to real estate.

I believe that art has the power to help businesses and individuals to improve their work environment and culture as well as challenge conventions and reinvent the way people see them.

The things we see around us impact us in ways that are often far beyond our comprehension and awareness. One thing Picasso did say was: “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls”.

Great art has the power to endure and affect people in a profound way. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Goldie or a piece by an unknown local artist. Whether it’s in our office or our homes, art can significantly impact our mindset and creativity levels.

So this October, as we celebrate Auckland Art Week and the young artists trying to grow their careers, I’d urge you to get out there and find something that strikes a chord with you or your business.

the sound

Vive Le Difference

E

nglish is the official language of rock and pop and soul and R‘n’B and virtually all popular music.

There, I said it.

Rockers in Spain, Germany and France will shake their heads and disagree. And then sing a Rolling Stones cover en Anglais.

English rocks, bops and krunks. The real question is, why is that?

Well, first of all, it’s because we invented the genre. Pop music, contrary to popular belief, came first. The rise of the wireless and the heady days of the flappers saw “popular music” evolve in the 1920s. The first use of “pop song” came in 1926. Then blues and jazz evolved into rock in the ‘50s, as Chuck Berry took the piano riffs of those blues and adapted it to the newly-invented electric guitar.

Then Bill Haley and the Comets rocked around the clock in 1954. So it’s an Anglophone culture.

But the real reason is that English is the ultimate bastard language. English has always stolen from everyone else, and has been more accepting of change than most languages.

Being a culture that likes things simple, we’ve taken those words and then cut them down, resulting in a language full of simple rhythms, and that converts well to popular music. The world recognises that. Trying to fit some dozen-syllable long German words into a 4/4 beat just doesn't work.

Take Eurovision, the music event of Europe. With dozens of languages spoken, it’s still mostly sung in English. Why don’t they sing in their native tongue? According to Ragnar Thorhallsson, singer and guitarist with the Icelandic indie band Of Monsters and Men, his language is harsh. He thinks that English is prettier and easier to make rhymes. He’s right. Name one song Björk sang in Icelandic.

The Scandis have always known that. When I've asked my Scandinavian friends why they have such good English, it’s because firstly all the big English-speaking TV shows are shown without subtitles, and because once you’ve got over all the variations in English, it’s basically simpler. As my friend Sven (yes really), told me once, mistakes in English are tolerated more than in his language. We’re used to thieving and tolerating variance and accents. So bands like ABBA, Roxette, The Cardigans and A-ha have conquered English markets with their slightly wacky Anglaise.

But have foreign languages cut through in English markets? Well, occasionally we do let the infidels in.

The biggest invaders are the Latinos, which shouldn’t come as a

surprise. The most spoken first language in the world is Mandarin by a country mile, followed by Spanish, pipping English at the post.

Added to the fact that Spanish is the second most popular language in the US, then it’s just a numbers game. So we do the macarena, live la vida loca, groove to “Guantanamera” and love “La Bamba”.

On the Asian side, it’s interesting that only one song written by a Mandarin composer has ever made it onto the American pop charts. “Rose, Rose, I Love You” is a Mandarin folk song written in 1940 which made it onto the charts in 1951, performed by Frankie Laine. That said, he performed it in English. So there’s a challenge for the billion or so Mandarin speakers and singers. The Koreans did it with Psy’s “Gangnam Style” and so did the Japanese with “Sukiyaki” by Kyu Sakamoto. And get this, “Sukiyaki” sold 13 million copies in 1963 and nobody mentioned the war.

Depending on who you believe, the biggest foreign language hit is either one of two songs. It could be either German Nena’s “99 Luftballons,” which got to number two in the States.

Nena then re-recorded it in English and while it charted in Britain and here, the English version got nowhere in America. And again, no-one mentioned the war. The other is Enigma’s “Sadness.”

Bizarrely, half this song is in Latin! Rock n roll! The other half is French.

The French have done well. Whether it was punks pogo-ing to Plastic Bertrand’s “Ca Plane Pour Moi”, Johnny Depp’s ex-wife Vanessa Paradis singing “Joe le Taxi,” or perves listening out for Jane Birkin’s orgasmic moans on Serge Gainsberg’s “Je t’aime . . . Moi Non Plus.”

Right now there’s another French invader. Her name is Hélöise Letissier, known better as Christine and the Queens. She’s been a big deal in France for two years now, but her big break came with the performance of her song “Tilted” on The Graham Norton Show a few months back. She’s an elfin pansexual who sings songs about wanting a penis, and broken hearts, over a catchy and unique electro-pop base. She has a dance style reminiscent of Michael Jackson while wearing cropped trouser suits and slip-ons. She’s been called France’s Lorde. And she’s adorable.

Me and my boys adore her, and we have no idea what she’s banging on about, but it sounds cool and exotic and it entertains and diverts and I guess that’s all that matters. All I can say is “vive la difference.” — Andrew Dickens

French beat: Hélöise Letissier, aka Christine and the Queens. Image courtesy of Warner Music the hobson 54

the second act

Flat Out at Fifty

I

read once that we only grasp the point of a decade when it’s over. Hence so many women at midlife realise that they spent their 20s subconsciously, or even openly, looking for a mate, when their time might have been better spent enjoying freedom and adventure before partnering and having kids.

So what is the point of your 50s? I’ve always thought it was about becoming the person you have always intended on being before other people got in the way. A friend’s son turned 12 last year, and as she reminisced about the years gone by, he commented wryly “Yeah Mum, poor you — 12 years a slave”. I feel her pain.

While I have nothing against husbands and kids — I have both — actually living with them can be overrated. With a husband based abroad for a while (“wow, how do you swing that?” ask my envious, married, 50-something girlfriends) and our daughter flatting, I have only our teenage son to contend with.

And as luck would have it, he’s had both a long school trip and an extended holiday with his dad this year, which has meant having a series of my girlfriends making a beeline for my new apartment in the central city. Some have had to be in Auckland on business, and others simply wanted a mini-break from their partners and families (two even tag-teamed from Australia).

So I have been reliving what it is like to go flatting with mates. I can’t help but compare it to the experience my daughter is having in her flat, which is reminiscent of a squat-meets-60s-hippiecommune.

In her flat they seem to live on noodles and crackers. In mine, we live on crackers too, but the thin imported ones, art-directed with tapas from the deli to match a decent bottle of red. In her flat, all are ready to party at all hours, even when university assignments are due. In mine, there is concern if someone’s looking a little tired — “Why don’t you go and have a lie down before we go out?” In her flat there is stuff everywhere, the only clean-up is before a flat inspection. In mine, someone’s always done the dishes, “just to get them out of the way”. In her flat, clothes are shared, in mine we buy each other small gifts just because “it’s so you”. In hers, no-one does voluntary exercise, in mine we plan walks and run errands in activewear.

While in the liminal space between real life and holiday, my friends and I mused about household compositions, social norms, property prices and the Unitary Plan. Might we bring back the flat in our second act? Rather than renting alone, could renting together be an option once again?

Apparently alternative housing arrangements for over-50s are flourishing in North America, with baby boomers thinking up new ways to set themselves up for the next stage in life. Rather than retirement villages, which can feel a little institutional, many are looking for a different and perhaps more authentic, sense of community. Co-housing communities are gaining traction and interest. They consist of small individual apartments or houses with large shared kitchens, dining rooms, gardens and spaces where neighbours can willingly interact, designed and planned by the residents themselves.

Putting aside the fact that no-one could stand living with me for an extended period except my husband, and I note that he has chosen to be away a lot, this would have a certain appeal in later years. Clean-living non-smokers, keen to do their fair share in the kitchen and in the garden, and who want to be asleep by 10.30pm? What’s not to love? In fact the only irk might be wearing each others’ Easireaders by mistake. — Sandy Burgham

Epsom Electorate Office Suite 2.4, Level 2, 27 Gillies Avenue, Newmarket.

PO Box 9209, Newmarket 1149.

To contact me for an appointment please call 09 522 7464

David Seymour, MP for Epsom davidseymour.epsom@parliament.govt.nz

Promoted by David Seymour, MP for Epsom.

the check in

Hot & Cold Louise Richardson finds holiday ideas to challenge and chill SERVE OVER ICE If you’re inspired to visit Antarctica by our story about Expedition South (see page 12), there are specialist companies offering voyages to the great white southern land that don’t involve Massey Fergusons or bedding down in huts.

Aurora Expeditions’ Polar Pioneer offers a more comfortable way to travel. The ship, which holds just 54 passengers, will begin departures this month for another season of adventures on the Antarctic peninsula.

All cruises are led by a team of experts in nature, geology, palaeontology and history and their passion for what they do is infectious, inevitably rubbing off on passengers enjoying this once-in-alifetime experience getting up close with seals, whales, petrels and the much-loved penguin family.

Various options are available; in some you can fly to the ice from Argentina or Chile

and meet up with the Pioneer, or do the whole thing by ship, for voyages of 11 to 20 days. The longest is the “Photographer’s Antarctica and South Georgia” trip (from around $20,000), on which awardwinning photographers help you achieve the very best memories possible, using the sensational natural light.

Extras such as sea kayaking, mountain climbing, snorkelling, scuba diving and camping can also be arranged at additional cost. auroraexpeditions.com.au p

GO WEST New Zealanders have always enjoyed a long-distance love affair with Western Australia, and especially its capital Perth, perched with its back to the red desert and looking out to the turquoise Indian Ocean.

In recent times the city has undergone a the hobson 56

food and retail transformation, with the urban villages of Northbridge, Mount Lawley, Leederville and Subiaco now offering myriad dining options.

Locally produced ingredients and those excellent WA wines feature; there are farmers’ markets in the weekend, and in summer, twilight hawkers’ markets, al fresco cafes and beachside dining.

Once dusty, disused, heritage buildings and laneways are now home to bars specialising in whiskey, gin, craft beers and wine, and street art creates a welcoming vibe in the city centre. And the presence of food trucks is so popular, it’s prompted a local foodie and entrepreneur to start what is anticipated to be an annual event – the “Food Truck Rumble,” a festival that involves some of the city’s best street-food trucks parked up in one place.

The next one is planned for April 2017.

Fly direct to Perth (opposite page, top)

from Auckland on Air New Zealand yearround, or via the Qantas seasonal service, from November to April. westernaustralia.com p

YOU CAN’T BEAT WELLINGTON ON A FINE DAY . . .

Now, there’s more reason to go, whatever the forecast. On Lambton Quay, Australian department store David Jones has launched its first New Zealand outlet, taking over the classic buildings that housed Wellington’s long-time retail institution, Kirkaldie and Stains.

There’s a line-up of local fashion brands, plus international labels such Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Valentino and Chloe, many of them available for the first time in New Zealand.

DJs offers concierge services, a wedding registry and personal shoppers.

When you’re done worshipping at this retail shrine, walk back to Bolton St and check-in/check out the new, five-star, Sofitel Wellington (pictured right).

Sales and marketing director Sonya Rossiter explains that when a new hotel is being developed for the brand, they aim to find cultural markers or links between the new city, and France, Sofitel’s home base.

“We call it blending local refinement and new French art de vivre,” says Rossiter.

In Wellington, at the heart of that link is the city’s historic botanic garden and the famous Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris, which was created by King Henri IV’s widow, Marie de’ Medici.

This theme has resulted in elegant, botanically-inspired décor throughout the hotel. And despite being brand new, the classic, luxe style makes it feel like it’s been part of the city for years. p

last year near the family home on Tay St, near Inglewood Rd. Featuring more than 300 trucks, and one of the world’s biggest collections of petrol bowsers, that attraction surpassed all expectations when it was visited by more than 10,000 people during its first two months.

Designed with families in mind, other

BROWSING THE BOWSERS Invercargill, home base of legendary motorcyclist Burt Munro, has become something of a destination for seeing a number of impressive transport-related exhibits. At E Hayes and Son hardware store, you can find Munro’s land-speedrecord setting motorcycle (as celebrated in The World’s Fastest Indian), along with a number of other vintage cars and bikes.

There’s more auto interest at a new museum in central Tay St, which is in the process of development by Jocelyn O’Donnell, daughter of freight company founder, the late Bill Richardson.

Richardson was a passionate collector of vintage vehicles, and the first Bill Richardson Transport World opened the hobson 57

exhibits and activities at the second Transport World site will include a paddy wagon (and prison uniforms) and O’Donnell’s own collection of Volkswagen Kombi vans. There’s also a restaurant with 70s-themed dining rooms. transportworld.co.nz p

the cinema

October at the Movies INFERNO

Allen goes bi-coastal for his latest all-star rom-com (and his 47th feature film). Set in the 1930s at the height of Hollywood’s “Golden Era”, young New Yorker Bobby chucks the family business to move to the City of Angels where his uncle, a powerful talent agent, can make him all the right connections. Dazzled by the glitz and glamour of Hollwyood, Bobby falls in love with both an unattainable girl and high society. The action flips between LA and Allen’s more familiar milieu of New York City.

Director Ron Howard. Starring Tom Hanks, Ben Foster, Felicity Jones In this, the third Dan Brown novel to have a cinematic adaptation, Team Hanks and Howard bring the mythology of Dante’s Inferno to the screen. When symbologist Robert Langdon — yes, the same hero also played by Hanks in The Da Vinci Code — wakes in a hospital room with no memory of the recent days, he finds himself, yet again, at the centre of a vast conspiracy.

Langdon must try to regain his lost memories, solve the greatest riddle of his life — and save the world in the process.

THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN

HELL OR HIGH WATER Director David Mackenzie. Starring Jeff Bridges, Ben Foster, Chris Pine A warmly-reviewed family/crime heist drama declared by The Washington Post as one of the US summer’s “ignored mini-masterpieces”, along with Captain Fantastic and our own Hunt for the Wilderpeople. A desperate single dad turns to his convict brother for help when the family ranch faces foreclosure. They target the bank that’s closing in on them for a series of heists. The law comes in the form of the Texas rangers on their tail, one played by the always watchable Bridges.

THE DAUGHTER Director Simon Stone. Starring Geoffrey Rush, Sam Neill, Miranda Otto, Anna Torv Returning home from the US to Australia for the wedding of his father, Christian

Nielsen uncovers a buried family truth.

His discovery — and his response to it — sets in motion a series of events that will undermine the relationships of everyone he cares about. Loosely based on the Ibsen play, The Wild Duck, it’s a contemporary small-town Australian drama (with an all-star Australasian cast) that’s drawn favourable reviews.

CAFE SOCIETY Director Woody Allen. Starring Steve Carell, Jesse Eisenberg, Blake Lively, Kristen Stewart, Corey Stoll

Director Tate Taylor. Starring Emily Blunt, Luke Evans, Rebecca Ferguson, Edgar Ramirez, Justin Theroux Discombobulated divorcée Rachel Watson passes her ex’s home on her daily train commute, a route that also makes her more than curious about the lives of the young couple who live down the street from him. One morning, her ride takes an unexpected turn when she believes she witnesses a shocking crime. Embroiled in a mystery, with her own sanity on the line, Rachel must uncover the truth about herself when her credibility is questioned.

Based on the best selling novel by the same name, it’s this year’s Gone Girl.

— Caitlin McKenna

Films listed are scheduled to screen at Rialto Cinemas Newmarket in October

Advance Screening Wednesday 5 October at 6:30pm Tickets: $24.50* each and include a glass of wine & goodie bag.

Book online: www.rialto.co.nz *Plus, $1.20 online booking fee.

the bookmark

Brief Encounters Expand your mind with books perfect for the pocket or bag, the commute or the café

A CURIOSITY OF DOUBTS: The Curiosity Lecture Series T L Uglow (Penguin) These lectures form part of the Sydney Writers’ Festival. Uglow is part of Google’s Creative Lab, which works with cultural organisations, artists and producers. Here, he looks at “doubt” — how writers across the ages have tackled the indecision and uncertainty that humankind faces. What would life without doubt look like?

PLAYING FOR BOTH SIDES Love Across The Tasman Stephanie Johnson (BWB Texts) Well known and successful novelist Johnson admits her relationship with Australia, and Australians, has been a confusing and complex one. She lived there and had books published, so why didn’t she stay? Her longing to return to New Zealand has waxed and waned.

She explores her elusive, and somewhat ambivalent, feelings for that sunburnt country in this fascinating essay of place and its part in one’s life.

SEVEN BRIEF LESSONS ON PHYSICS Carlo Rovelli (Penguin) Brief but masterly and beautifully written, this is most of all readable. The New Statesman’s Michael Brooks put it far better than I could –“If you want to understand what gets physicists out of bed in the morning, there is no better guide than Rovelli.” In my own words? Rovelli made the mystery of the universe almost comprehensible for me.

COMPLACENT NATION Gavin Ellis (BWB Texts) Former NZ Herald editor Gavin Ellis challenges our apathy. He argues it is time New Zealanders reaffirmed our democratic

the hobson 59

rights, or we risk further deterioration to freedom of speech and our civic knowledge. “The country in which we live is not quite as free as we like to think”. The introduction shook me, and that feeling continued through the book.

MY ITALIANS True Stories of Crime and Courage Robert Saviano (Penguin) This passionate and courageous writer gives the reader a deeply personal and candid brief portrait of his country today.

He shows that in spite of all the bad — the crime, the corruption – that exists, there are many courageous individuals who defy the system and work for a better future.

Sweep aside your romantic ideals of Italy and understand this man’s vision for a “free, independent republican nation”.

I did.

— Gail Woodward

the appetite

Waving the Flag Sue Fleischl brings a touch of France, and the US, to your table this month BOUILLABAISSE Serves 6 ¼ cup olive oil 1 fennel bulb, finely chopped (save the fronds for stock and garnish) 1 large onion, finely chopped 6 garlic cloves, chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 2 leeks, white part only, finely chopped 1 tsp fennel seeds, crushed ¼ tsp saffron threads 2 litres fish stock 1 kg ripe tomatoes 2 tbsp tomato paste 2 bay leaves 4 sprigs thyme 2 tbsp sea salt 1 tsp black pepper 1 pinch cayenne pepper 100ml Pernod 1kg white fish (I like to use john dory or gurnard) 18 prawns or scampi, shelled, cleaned 18 mussels, scrubbed and debearded 30 clams, soaked in cold water for 15 minutes Thinly sliced baguette, brushed with garlic oil and toasted, to serve Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add fennel, onion, celery, garlic, leeks and fennel seeds, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until vegetables soften. While that’s cooking, combine the saffron and half a cup of the fish stock in a small bowl, and set aside for 10 minutes to steep.

Peel the tomatoes, remove seeds and discard, then chop finely. Add tomato paste to vegetables in pan and cook, stirring, for one minute. Add the saffron mixture, tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and the remaining stock to the pan and simmer for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in cayenne and Pernod.

Add the fish to the pan, then prawns or scampi, making sure the seafood is submerged in the liquid. Cook for five minutes, or until the seafood is just cooked. Meanwhile, place mussels and clams and 2 tbsp of water in a frying pan over high heat. Cover with a lid and cook, shaking the pan occasionally, for three minutes or until the shells open.

Divide the bouillabaisse among bowls. Top with clams and mussels and scatter with reserved fennel fronds.

Serve with the toasted slices of baguette.

Please don’t be put off by the long list of ingredients!

Once you have all the ingredients together, it’s relatively quick and easy to put together. You can of course use any seafood you like, fresh-caught is always best.

OREO GATEAU This devillishly rich sponge pairs beautifully with an American import we’ve embraced: the Oreo cookie For the sponge: 500g unsalted butter 500g caster sugar 10 size 6 eggs 500g plain flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp vanilla essence For the filling: 300ml runny cream 6 egg yolks 200g caster sugar 1 vanilla pod 500g unsalted butter, melted 300g icing sugar 2 packets Oreo biscuits (available at New World), broken up, with five reserved whole for decoration Preheat oven to 160C. To make the sponge, cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl, adding the eggs gradually, one by one. Mix the flour and baking powder together and sift into the creamed mixture. Fold in until well combined. Add the vanilla essence. Pour the mixture into a greased or lined 9” cake tin. Bake at 160C for 40-45 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly in the tin before turning out onto a cake rack.

Once the sponge has cooled, make the filling. Slice the vanilla pod in two lengthways, and add to the cream in a pot. Bring to the boil. Mix the egg yolks and sugar, then whisk in the boiling cream, combining well. Return the egg and cream mixture to the pot, and cook slowly on a low heat until it thickens, like a custard. Allow the mixture to cool, then add the melted butter and icing

the hobson 60

sugar. Whip well (with electric beaters) until it becomes very creamy. Just before you’re ready to assemble the gateau, halve the filling into bowls.

Crumble the broken Oreos into one of the bowls.

When the sponge is totally cold, cut in half, and spread one cut side with the cream and Oreo crumb mixture. Place the other half on top, and cover the top and sides with the remaining cream. For added decoration, place halved Oreo cookies around the cake, and drizzle with melted chocolate.

This cake is often requested by my team at Great Catering for their birthdays — it is absolutely addictive! The whole cake can be made a day ahead. It keeps well if it is wrapped in clingfilm and stored in the fridge overnight. p Food photographed by Dominique White Photography

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the district diary

October 2016 1 Parnell Farmers’ Market, every Saturday from 8am, in the carpark at the Jubilee Building, 545 Parnell Rd Time Warped - a night at Auckland Museum is a journey through time to see what life was like in the past and what it might look like in the future.

Bring the family, a torch and your wildest imagination. Book at aucklandmuseum. com, the museum ticket desk or 306 7048 October is Save Kiwi Month, and kiwi conservation charity Kiwis for kiwi is calling for NZers to get together at school, work, or home to share a Great Kiwi Morning Tea and collect donations. Visit kiwisforkiwi.org to register and receive your event pack 2 Final day of the 18th annual Auckland On Water Boat Show. Free seminars, activities for both kids and adults, lots of exhibits.

Tickets at the gate, Viaduct Events Centre, 161 Halsey Street, 10am-5pm 4 Opening the 13th year of the Tempo Dance Festival, a revival of one of NZ’s most incredible dance works, Insolent River: A Tango, by Michael Parmenter. To 16 October, 305 Queen St. Tickets and full festival programme at www.qtheatre.co.nz 5 Step back in time. Using authentic equipment, experience working life in a Victorian house. Highwic, 40 Gillies Ave, 10.30-3.00pm. Phone 524 5729 to book 8 Orākei Market – gourmet, artisan, vintage, fresh. Every 2nd Saturday from 9am, Orākei Community Centre, 156 Kepa Rd Newmarket and Parnell celebrate their public artworks and galleries with walks, talks, interactive shows and life drawing as part of Artweek Auckland, until Oct 16.

Various events, artweekauckland.co.nz for full programme Bigger and better than ever, the Pink Star Walk is back! Don your pinkest gladrags, gather your friends, and help raise funds for breast cancer research, education and support. Auckland Domain, 4-9.30pm.

Registration/tickets at pinkstarwalk.co.nz 9 See Newmarket’s transformation over the

ages via the Newmarket Heritage Walk, part of the Auckland Heritage Festival. 9-10.30am at the Old School Building, 6 Seccombes Rd. Bookings essential, 555 5164 or community@parnell.org.nz Also part of the Heritage Festival, visit historic St Stephen’s chapel in Judges Bay to hear of notable Auckland colonists and characters, learn why the first chapel collapsed, and why Mrs Outhwaite went to the governor’s ball in a wheelbarrow! 2.30-4pm at the chapel, bookings as above 10 Term 4 begins, all schools 11 Sweet Louise’s 10 Year Anniversary Art Auction, 6pm at Thievery Studio, 203 K Rd. All proceeds to Sweet Louise, the charity dedicated to supporting those living with secondary breast cancer. sweetlouise.co.nz 12 Recreate: Crafts and Conversation, every Wednesday, 10.30am-12pm at Greenlane Christian Centre, 17 Marewa Rd. Admission free 13 Join in: free, open-to-all English conversation classes are held Thursdays (7pm), Fridays (11.15am) and Saturdays (9.30am) at the Greenlane Christian Centre, 17 Marewa Rd, Greenlane 14 Kids and teens “pizza-and-tennis” starts tonight and runs every Friday during Term 4 at Gladstone Tennis Club, Parnell. 5-7pm, $10 for games and pizza. Groups run in approximate ages: 8-10, 11-12 and 13+ 15 Come and enjoy all the fun of the Stonefields community fair at Stonefields School, 81 Tihi St, St Johns, 10am-2.00pm 16 On your marks, get set, WAIT! The Parnell Waiters’ Race returns to test agility, skill, professionalism and speed – all that you’d expect from a top waiter! From 11am in Heard Park, you won’t want to miss this epic series of races up and down Parnell Rd From 2-5pm, Gladstone Tennis Club hosts an open day, with round robin and sausage sizzle. All welcome the hobson 62

Presents

A night at St Matthew in the city Musical Director Kate Bell

SATURDAY 29TH OCTOBER 7:30PM Corner Hobson & Wellesley Streets

Tickets from www.stonefieldschoir.org.nz $20 Adult | $15 Concession $15 Children & Group bookings 10+

Stonefieldschoir All gold coin donations will be given to the NZBCF for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

22 Craft Harvest market, 4th Saturday of every month from 8am, alongside Parnell Farmers’ Market, 545 Parnell Rd 24 Labour Day public holiday 27 Parnell Heritage launches Journal No 6 at the Parnell Library, 6.30pm. All welcome 29 Enjoy some spooky fun and good shopping too at Remuera’s Hallowe’en-themed Market Day. Food, entertainment, fun for all, from 10am in the Remuera shops Spring Time Wheels showcases racing motorbikes, cars and more. With special guest, motorcycle racing champ, Andrew Stroud. 11am-3.30pm at Greenlane Christian Centre, 17 Marewa Rd. Free Tonight the community Stonefields Choir perform at St Matthews. Details on poster (above) 31 Happy Hallowe’en! Keep an eye out for ghosts and ghouls in your neighbourhood!

Also this month: order a delicious Christmas cake from St Cuthbert’s: see stcuthberts.school.nz/news for sizes and details. Plus tickets are now on sale for Grammar’s Art-House tour on November 12: see arthousetour.co.nz Got an entry for The District Diary? Email hobsondiary@gmail.com

the cryptic by mĀyĀ

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Bear becoming a 15 on the 14th of October (6-3-4) 10/11 Often seen before the 2nd, a 15 playing Helen at Bezique (5,9) 12 Feverish, I take a seat - tell me that's forbidden! (7) 14 Reactionary action movie? (7) 15 Almost 24, confused, I ran back to an elder (12) 19 Gained by letting Clinton Era upset me (6,6) 24 Not French cooking light ingredient (4,3) 25 Where you probably won't make these into your carbon footprint! (7) 26 Butt ends attached to barrels (9) 27 French animal left to pepper plant (5) 28 Killing twice, fool a country (13)

2 One hands out ethics (6) 3 Pole not prefix to follower of Flying?

(3) 4 Vote in Egyptian god or another mythological character (7) 5 It may be used to change the locks (4,3) 6 Cockney's woolly sock? (5,6) 7 Alice Cooper a ticking bomb? No, just a bit flamboyant (8) 8 Fit out with electronic joke (5) 9 Using parasol and producing gradual change (7) 13 Hip Nige's set around last part of Jan, grand for a 15 knocked down in 2006 (11) 16 Drink may be a trap (3) 17 Mate, hang loose with Mrs Key (7) 18 Worker I placed in my Parnell

restaurant (8) 20 Perhaps ticks where you'll find religious nonconformists (7) 21 Flotation tank from space station found in Ontario (7) 22 Make lace and show (6) 23 A song about lamps (5) 27 Piece of information straight from the horse's mouth (3)

Answers on page 20 Set by Māyā https://thehobsoncrossword.wordpress.com/ the hobson 64

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